V8 Archives

Aston Martin Unveils Revamped Vantage: More Power, Enhanced Performance

Aston Martin, renowned for its iconic Vantage model, unveils an updated iteration of its revered two-door GT car after 74 years of craftsmanship. The latest generation, introduced in 2018, undergoes a substantial update, focusing on significant mechanical enhancements alongside aesthetic refinements. Beyond surface-level changes, Aston Martin aims to deliver a refreshed appearance coupled with elevated performance that resonates with enthusiasts.

At the heart of the new Vantage lies a Mercedes-sourced 4.0-litre V8 engine, now tuned to deliver an impressive 656hp, marking a substantial increase of 153hp from its predecessor. This power surge is not merely the result of heightened boost pressure but stems from meticulous adjustments, including new camshafts, enlarged turbos, and a modified compression ratio. Furthermore, three additional heat exchangers and an enlarged oil cooler manage coolant and charge air temperatures more effectively, ensuring optimal engine performance.

The powertrain is mated to the trusted 8-speed ZF automatic transmission, transmitting power to the rear wheels via an electronic limited-slip differential. With a shortened final drive ratio of 3.083:1, the new Vantage achieves swifter acceleration while maintaining an impressive top speed of 325km/h and a blistering 0-100km/h sprint time of just 3.4 seconds.

Structural enhancements bolster the Vantage’s rigidity, with a revised underbody and repositioned front cross-member contributing to increased torsional stiffness. Additionally, a lighter and stiffer strut brace enhances chassis stiffness, complemented by improved rigidity at the rear. These modifications pave the way for the new Bilstein DTX adaptive dampers to optimise handling and ride quality.

Software refinements further enhance performance and driver engagement, with Aston Martin fine-tuning traction management modes, launch control system, and electronic power steering. The result is a dynamic driving experience on twisty roads, complemented by a high-performance braking system featuring front 400mm steel rotors with six-piston callipers and rear 360mm rotors with four-piston callipers. Carbon ceramic brakes are available as an option, shedding unsprung weight for improved agility and handling.

Inside, the Vantage cockpit is sleek and elegant, with clean lines and a spacious feel. The seats are comfortable and supportive, designed for an enjoyable driving experience. Standard features include a 11-speaker audio system, while audiophiles can opt for the upgraded Bowers & Wilkins system with 15 speakers and 1,170W of power.

The Vantage also comes with Aston Martin’s latest infotainment system, which includes a 10.25-inch touchscreen with online connectivity. Navigation is enhanced with real-time traffic updates and dynamic routing, making journeys smoother and more efficient. The system also supports wireless Apple CarPlay for seamless smartphone integration.

Owners can interact with their Vantage through the Aston Martin app, which offers features like vehicle monitoring, location tracking, and community engagement. The app is free for the first three years and enhances the ownership experience.

Despite the extensive enhancements, the essence of the Vantage remains unchanged – a timeless two-door GT car offering a captivating driving experience. Deliveries are scheduled to commence in Q2 2024, with pricing details expected to be announced concurrently, enticing Aston Martin enthusiasts eager to experience the all-new Vantage firsthand.

Audi RS6 Avant GT Wagon Edisi Terhad dengan Warisan Perlumbaan

Audi telah meningkatkan taruhan dengan RS6 Avant GT edisi terhad, sebuah station wagon prestasi tinggi yang menghormati Audi 90 Quattro IMSA GTO ikonik dari penghujung tahun 80-an. RS6 Avant GT berkongsi enjin V8 turbo berganda 4.0 liter 621hp dengan Avant Performance tetapi mempunyai prestasi yang dipertingkatkan, mencapai 100km/j dalam 3.2 saat dan kelajuan tertinggi 305km/j.

Model GT menampilkan ketinggian rendah 10mm, suspension koil yang boleh disesuaikan secara manual, palang penstabil yang lebih tegar, dampers yang boleh disesuaikan secara elektronik tiga hala, dan differential yang dikemas kini dengan lebih banyak kecenderungan belakang. Reka bentuk luaran diilhamkan oleh kereta lumba Audi 90 Quattro IMSA GTO, menampilkan livery lumba Audi merah, putih, dan hitam yang ikonik serta rim 22 inci.

Dihadkan hanya kepada 660 unit di seluruh dunia, RS6 Avant GT menawarkan pengalaman sebahagiannya buatan tangan, dengan pelbagai komponen yang direka oleh pereka dan jurutera Jerman. Hood, fender, bumper, spoiler, suspension, dan pembalut luaran yang diperbuat daripada serat karbon menunjukkan eksklusiviti kenderaan ini. Dalaman mempunyai kelabu hitam dan Alcantara, jahitan merah di tempat duduk, dan kerusi sport baru dengan sandaran karbon.

Audi merancang untuk menghasilkan hanya 85 unit untuk pasaran Amerika Syarikat dan 7 untuk Kanada, menjadikan RS6 Avant GT penambahan yang sangat dicari dan jarang ditemui dalam landskap automotif. Walaupun butiran harga belum diumumkan secara rasmi, jumlah pengeluaran yang terhad menunjukkan permintaan yang kuat untuk station wagon berprestasi tinggi ini.

Audi RS6 Avant GT: A 621hp Wagon with Racing Heritage

Audi has raised the stakes with its limited-edition RS6 Avant GT, a high-performance wagon that pays homage to the iconic Audi 90 Quattro IMSA GTO from the late 80s. The RS6 Avant GT shares the 621hp twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 engine with the Avant Performance but boasts enhanced performance figures, reaching 100km/h in 3.2 seconds and a top speed of 305km/h.

The GT model features a 10mm lowered ride height, a manually adjustable coil over suspension, stiffer stabiliser bars, three-way electronically adjustable dampers, and an updated differential with more rear bias. The exterior design draws inspiration from the Audi 90 Quattro IMSA GTO race car, featuring the iconic red, white, and black Audi racing livery and 22-inch wheels.

Limited to just 660 units worldwide, the RS6 Avant GT offers a partially hand-built experience, with various components crafted by German designers and engineers. The carbon fibre hood, fenders, bumper, spoiler, suspension, and exterior wrap showcase the vehicle’s exclusivity. The interior boasts black leather and Alcantara upholstery, red quilted stitching on the seats, and new sport bucket seats with carbon backing.

Audi plans to produce only 85 units for the US market and 7 for Canada, making the RS6 Avant GT a highly sought-after and rare addition to the automotive landscape. While pricing details are yet to be officially disclosed, the limited production run suggests strong demand for this performance-oriented wagon.

Toyota Starlet Dengan Enjin Suzuki Hayabusa V8 Yang Menghasilkan 345hp

Peminat automotif dan penggemar perlumbaan sedang menyaksikan transformasi yang menakjubkan apabila jurutera dan pelumba Finland, Mikko Kataja, meningkatkan prestasi Toyota Starletnya dengan enjin Suzuki Hayabusa V8.

Dikenali dengan pengubahsuaian yang mengagumkan dan kemenangan mendaki bukit, bengkel Kataja, VHT Racing, telah menjadi sinonim dengan menolak sempadan kuasa dan kecekapan automotif.

Toyota Starlet, yang sebelum ini dikuasakan oleh enjin Toyota 4AGE, mengalami peningkatan yang luar biasa untuk musim perlumbaan 2023. Kataja beralih kepada enjin Suzuki Hayabusa V8 2.6 liter, khususnya model Gen One oleh Radical Precision Engineering, kerana reka bentuk yang padat, berat yang agak ringan, dan kuasa yang hebat.

Walaupun konfigurasi semasa menghasilkan 345hp pada 10,500rpm, VHT Racing mempunyai rancangan yang lebih besar. Sebuah versi 2.7 liter Hayabusa V8 generasi kedua sedang dalam pembuatan, dilengkapi dengan piston Cosworth yang bertenaga tinggi untuk penyerahan kuasa yang lebih baik. Kedua-dua iterasi akan mengekalkan reka bentuk semula jadi tanpa pam udara.

Dalam peranan sebagai pengurus projek di Bosch Motorsport, Kataja, yang menyelesaikan masalah teknikal untuk pelanggan, telah menyatukan keahlian kejuruteraannya ke dalam dunia perlumbaan.

Memiliki Toyota Starlet selama lebih dari dua dekad, perjalanan Kataja dengan kenderaan itu bermula pada tahun 2000 apabila dia membeli Starlet yang berada dalam bajet untuk projek kereta lumba semasa pengajian kejuruteraannya. Walaupun mengalami cabaran, termasuk kemalangan terbalik, Starlet itu menjadi tesis akhirnya dalam pengajian kejuruteraan mekanikal perlumbaan.

Kini, dengan enjin Suzuki Hayabusa V8, Toyota Starlet Mikko Kataja bersedia untuk menentukan semula standard perlumbaan, dengan anggaran kuasa 440hp di hujung jalan. Gabungan teknologi terkini dan warisan perlumbaan bertujuan menjadikan VHT Racing sebagai daya pendorong utama dalam dunia automotif.

Toyota Starlet with Suzuki Hayabusa V8 Power That Produces 345hp!

Automotive enthusiasts and racing aficionados are witnessing a groundbreaking transformation as Finnish engineer and racer Mikko Kataja elevates the performance of his Toyota Starlet with the potent Suzuki Hayabusa V8 engine.

Known for his impressive modifications and hill climb victories, Kataja’s workshop, VHT Racing, has become synonymous with pushing the boundaries of automotive power and efficiency.

The Toyota Starlet, previously powered by the Toyota 4AGE engine, is undergoing a remarkable upgrade for the 2023 racing season. Kataja turned to the Suzuki Hayabusa V8 2.6-liter engine, specifically the Gen One model by Radical Precision Engineering, for its compact design, relatively lightweight, and formidable power.

While the current configuration produces an impressive 345hp at 10,500rpm, VHT Racing has even grander plans. A second-gen 2.7-litre version of the Hayabusa V8 is in the works, equipped with high-compression Cosworth pistons for enhanced power delivery. Both iterations will maintain a naturally aspirated design.

In his role as a project manager at Bosch Motorsport, Kataja, who troubleshoots technical issues for customers, has seamlessly integrated his engineering expertise into the realm of racing.

Having owned the Toyota Starlet for over two decades, Kataja’s journey with the car began in 2000 when he purchased a budget-friendly Starlet for a rally car project during his engineering studies. Despite setbacks, including a rollover accident, the Starlet became his final thesis in motorsport mechanical engineering studies.

Now, with the Suzuki Hayabusa V8 engine, Kataja’s Toyota Starlet is poised to redefine racing standards, with an estimated 440hp on the horizon. The fusion of cutting-edge technology and a racing legacy is set to make VHT Racing a driving force in the automotive world.

Aston Martin Valhalla: Pengeluaran Terhad dengan 998bhp!

Aston Martin Valhalla yang sangat dinantikan, yang awalnya diperkenalkan sebagai AM-RB 03, dijadualkan untuk memasuki pengeluaran terhad pada 2024 setelah menyelesaikan pembangunannya. Supercar enjin tengah ini telah berubah dari V-6 kepada AMG flat-plane crank 4.0 liter twin-turbo V8 yang kuat, dipadankan dengan dua motor elektrik untuk keluaran gabungan 998bhp dan keupayaan penggerak empat roda.

Dengan kelajuan tertinggi 349km/j dan anggaran pecutan 0-100km/j dalam 2.5 saat, Valhalla menjanjikan prestasi yang mendebarkan.

Gambar-gambar terkini prototaip yang sedang diuji di Silverstone memperlihatkan penyesuaian reka bentuk, termasuk pemotongan sisi yang lebih besar untuk penampilan yang lebih agresif.

Bahagian hadapannya mengekalkan reka bentuk yang khas Aston Martin, dan ciri-ciri yang ketara termasuk lampu hadapan yang bersedia untuk pengeluaran, cermin sisi, dan spoiler belakang yang boleh ditarik. Bahagian belakang kereta menunjukkan variasi pemecah angin yang besar seperti konsepnya.

Walaupun interior prototaip ini kelihatan lebih bersifat perlumbaan, model pengeluaran akhir dijangkakan menawarkan kabin yang lebih ringkas, mencapai keseimbangan antara prestasi dan kepraktisan. Terhad kepada hanya 999 unit, Aston Martin Valhalla merupakan tawaran eksklusif yang tinggi prestasinya untuk para peminat.

Aston Martin Valhalla Nears Production with V8 Power

Aston Martin’s highly anticipated Valhalla, initially introduced as the AM-RB 03, is set to enter limited production in 2024 after finalising its development. The mid-engined supercar has transitioned from a V-6 to a powerful AMG flat-plane crank 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, coupled with two electric motors for a combined output of 998bhp and four-wheel drive capabilities.

With a top speed of 349km/h and an estimated 0-100km/h acceleration in 2.5 seconds, the Valhalla promises an exhilarating performance.

Recent photos of a prototype undergoing testing at Silverstone reveal design tweaks, including larger side cutouts for a more aggressive appearance.

The nose retains Aston Martin’s distinctive styling, and notable features include production-ready headlights, side mirrors, and a retractable rear wing. The rear of the car showcases a variant of the concept’s substantial diffuser.

While the interior of the prototype appears race-oriented, the final production model is expected to offer a more refined cabin, striking a balance between performance and practicality. Limited to just 999 units, the Aston Martin Valhalla represents a high-performance, exclusive offering for enthusiasts.

50 Years Of Aston Martin V8

In the early 1970s, Aston Martin was undergoing significant change as Sir David Brown sold it to a Company Developments Ltd. The change of ownership brought with it new optimism for the company’s future, but the engineering and design ethos of the David Brown era was also retained. This enabled the birth of the AM V8 as a successor to the DBS V8.

The DBS V8 had championed the use of Aston Martin’s first V8, which was the first new engine for more than 10 years, so the AM V8 was essentially a styling exercise. In place of the angular nose of the DBS was a more curvaceous, purposeful front end which gave a much more muscular look. Key to that new nose was the arrival of two 7-inch quartz iodine headlamps and a black mesh grille.

The return of a small open ‘power bulge’ on the bonnet; the ‘Coke-bottle’ flanks; and the use of Aston Martin V8 side strake badges completed the exterior styling revisions. That this same William Towns’ shape, in essence, would represent the Aston Martin ‘look’ for almost 2 decades shows the importance of its debut in 1972.

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Jeep will bring back the V8 Wrangler

During the past 10 years, the auto industry has been downsizing engines as a way to reduce consumption, toxic exhaust emissions and also weight. Thanks to turbocharging and direct fuel injection, the engine outputs have actually increased in spite of displacements decreasing.

But while most people are happy with smaller, more fuel-efficient engines, Americans still miss the big ones that have been typical in their vehicles, especially the vee engines. Jeep fans, in particular, have been wishing for a V8 Wrangler in recent years, and their request has been noted. The last time a Jeep was offered with a V8 engine was in 1981 when the CJ had a 5-litre V8.

*1981 Jeep CJ Renegade was the last model with a V8.*

Yes, a V8 is returning
As an indication they may soon get their wish, Jeep has revealed the Wrangler Rubicon 392 Concept. This has a huge 6.4-litre V8 engine that delivers 450 bhp/610 Nm and can go from 0 to 96 km/h in a timed of less than 5 seconds, it is claimed.

“Jeep Wrangler enthusiasts have been asking us for a Wrangler V8, and our new Wrangler Rubicon 392 Concept proves that we have the ability to make that happen,” said Jim Morrison, Head of Jeep Brand – FCA North America. “From the recently introduced Wrangler EcoDiesel, to our award-winning Jeep Gladiator, and the upcoming Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, Jeep is clearly listening to its customers. We are anxious to gauge their reaction to this new Wrangler Rubicon 392 Concept, a vehicle that delivers an incredible and unmatched level of fun-to-drive performance and capability, on- and off-road.”

Capability on and off-road
To accommodate the massive 6.4-litre V8 engine and stronger 8-speed transmission, the Wrangler Rubicon 392 Concept has upgraded engine mounts and a modified frame. Suspension upgrades include new aluminium, monotube Fox shocks for improved damping and heat dissipation. A dual-mode exhaust alters the performance sound at the touch of a button.

The Wrangler Rubicon 392 Concept boasts even more capability courtesy of third-generation Dana 44 axles, a Selec-Track full-time 2-speed transfer case, Tru-Lok electric front and rear-axle locking differentials. 37-inch mud-terrain tyres wrap around custom 17-inch beadlock wheels that hold tyres to rims under extreme lateral loads, allowing for reduced tyre pressure operation and added traction.

The factory-fitted Jeep Performance Parts 2-inch lift kit from Mopar enables additional suspension articulation for improved approach, breakover and departure angles. There are also Rubicon rock rails, steel bumpers with a Warn winch, and a steel belly pan – all to ensure protection when going over the roughest terrain.

Custom design inside and out
The Wrangler Rubicon 392 Concept features Granite Crystal exterior paint adorned with bronze accentuated tow hooks, badging, springs, shocks and wheels, while featuring a heavy-duty raised performance bonnet with an aggressive appearance. Custom half doors and Wrangler’s Sky One-touch powertop, with removable side panels allow for open-air freedom when weather conditions are nice enough.

The vehicle made its appearance just recently and Jeep is doing final real-world testing before launching the production version. It’s not likely to be a long wait as Jeep must be eager to have a new model to prevent Ford’s new Bronco from drawing too many customers.

2020 Jeep Renegade Plug-In Hybrid previewed in Paris

New Ferrari F8 Spider is topless version of F8 Tributo, replaces 488 Spider

On the same weekend that Ferrari scored a F1 victory in its home race after 9 years, the company also unveiled the F8 Spider, the new generation drop-top sportscar powered by the most successful mid-rear-mounted V8 in history. The F8 Spider was designed in parallel with the F8 Tributo berlinetta and features the compact and efficient RHT (Retractable Hard Top). The RHT takes just 14 seconds to deploy or retract and can be closed or opened while the car is on the move up to 45 km/h.

Open-top V8s since 1977
The F8 Spider is the latest addition to an exclusive and prestigious bloodline of open-top V8 cars which began with the 308 GTS in 1977. It is less extreme than the 488 Pista Spider, but sportier than the 488 Spider which it replaces in the range.

Consequently, the F8 Spider sets a new benchmark for the ‘en plein air’ sportscar in terms of usable performance and exceptional handling, providing an incredibly rewarding driving experience. In fact, it is claimed to excel in merging handling dynamics with surprising in-car comfort.

Award-winning engine for 4 consecutive years
The 3902 cc twin-turbo engine is a development of the V8 that won the ‘International Engine of the Year Award’ for four consecutive years (2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019) and that was also selected as the best engine of the last two decades.

The F8 Spider’s greatest achievement is the fact that it unleashes its power instantaneously with zero turbo lag, whilst retaining this V8’s unique and very special ‘soundtrack’. This performance and the car’s disarmingly effortless handling were made possible by integrating a series of innovative, track-derived aero solutions into its design.

The F8 Spider replaces the 488 Spider and improves on all aspects of its specifications. Aside from the fact that its engine delivers an extra 50 ps (now 720 ps, with 770 Nm of torque), the new Ferrari is 20 kgs lighter than its predecessor and 20 kgs more than the more extreme 488 Pista Spider. Significantly more aerodynamically efficient, it features the new 6.1 version of the Side Slip Angle Control system.

Improved performance-enhancing systems
The new car also has a new version of the Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer (FDE+) which can now be activated in the manettino’s RACE position, a move designed to make performance on the limit easier to reach and control. Adaptive Performance Launch analyses grip as the car accelerates and then uses electronic controls to optimise the torque delivered to suit the road’s grip level, reducing wheel slip to a minimum which, in turn, maximises acceleration.

The rev limiter’s ‘Wall Effect’ strategy is another leap forward in terms of extreme engine performance. Rather than gradually limiting the revs towards the limit, it cuts off right at the 8,000 rpm redline, maximising the amount of power available in power-on dynamic driving situations and consequently improving lap times.

The F8 Spider’s cockpit retains the classic, driver-oriented look typical of Ferrari’s mid-rear-engined berlinettas. A concept that creates a symbiotic relationship between driver and car, with all controls mounted on the new generation steering wheel.

The dash incorporates an aluminium sail panel supporting the central satellite and continuing into the dash itself. Also to create a sense of visual lightness, a sliver of carbonfibre divides the upper and lower parts, streamlining the whole look. This section also incorporates the optional 7-inch touchscreen passenger-side display and the dash is completed by the classic instrument cluster with its central tachometer.

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V8

Aston Martin Unveils Revamped Vantage: More Power, Enhanced Performance

Audi RS6 Avant GT Wagon Edisi Terhad dengan Warisan Perlumbaan

Audi RS6 Avant GT: A 621hp Wagon with Racing Heritage

Toyota Starlet Dengan Enjin Suzuki Hayabusa V8 Yang Menghasilkan 345hp

Toyota Starlet with Suzuki Hayabusa V8 Power That Produces 345hp!

Aston Martin Valhalla: Pengeluaran Terhad dengan 998bhp!

Aston Martin Valhalla Nears Production with V8 Power

50 Years Of Aston Martin V8

Jeep will bring back the V8 Wrangler

New Ferrari F8 Spider is topless version of F8 Tributo, replaces 488 Spider

Aston Martin Unveils Revamped Vantage: More Power, Enhanced Performance

Audi RS6 Avant GT Wagon Edisi Terhad dengan Warisan Perlumbaan

Audi RS6 Avant GT: A 621hp Wagon with Racing Heritage

Toyota Starlet Dengan Enjin Suzuki Hayabusa V8 Yang Menghasilkan 345hp

Toyota Starlet with Suzuki Hayabusa V8 Power That Produces 345hp!

Aston Martin Valhalla: Pengeluaran Terhad dengan 998bhp!

Aston Martin Valhalla Nears Production with V8 Power

50 Years Of Aston Martin V8

Jeep will bring back the V8 Wrangler

New Ferrari F8 Spider is topless version of F8 Tributo, replaces 488 Spider

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