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Nissan 370z

Fairlady Z Version ST  

Nissan Releases New Fairlady Z

TOKYO (Dec. 1, 2008) - Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. announced the release of the all-new, fully redesigned Fairlady Z sports car, which goes on sale today at Nissan dealers nationwide.

 Fairlady Z Version ST (fitted with optional equipment)

In the nearly 40 years since the first-generation S30 model debuted in 1969, the Fairlady Z has earned a reputation as one of the most desirable sports cars in the world, with approximately 1.7 million units in global sales to date.

The latest Fairlady Z, while embodying the first generation's signature "Z-ness" in terms of high performance, design and high value, incorporates dramatic advances in dynamic performance and perceived quality. The Z also offers a strong feeling of "newness," as expressed by its fresh exterior and interior styling and new performance features.

The new Fairlady Z's enhanced performance characteristics are a result of its shorter wheelbase, reduced weight and the adoption of the larger, more powerful VQ37VHR 3.7-liter V6 engine. It also offers the world's first 6-speed manual transmission with synchronized rev control or a newly developed 7-speed automatic transmission with a manual shift mode. The combination of more horsepower, new transmissions and a refined suspension helps the Fairlady Z deliver the superior acceleration, cornering and stopping capabilities expected of a true world-class sports car.

Helping the driver take full advantage of the new performance levels is a redesigned interior that aims for "oneness" between the driver and the cockpit, combining sports car functionality with an impression of stellar quality. And, along with its world-class dynamic performance and dynamic design, the new Fairlady Z once again offers exceptional value, giving customers the confidence of having made a wise purchase decision.

Highlights of the all-new Fairlady Z follow.

A Refined, Sculptural Exterior That Is Pure Z
The Fairlady Z's unmistakable front-engine, rear-drive body proportions only hint at the overwhelming performance inherent under its beautifully sculpted skin. Further notice of the exhilarating driving experience that awaits is given by its iconic "Z-ness" - from the dynamic character line that runs from the headlights to the rear, delineating the waistline and cabin arch to the flared rear fenders that strongly accentuate the drive wheels.

The headlights and the rear combination lamps function as the "stop, flick and pullout" motions that end brush strokes in calligraphy. Their treatment produces a "boomerang motion" that has the intended effect of drawing all the styling elements together.

 

The wheelbase of the new Fairlady Z has been shortened by 100 millimeters from that of the previous model, offering not only crisper handling and dynamic performance but also a more aggressive sport stance. The new Fairlady Z weighs approximately the same as the previous model, despite its enhanced equipment features and the body rigidity measures that have been adopted to improve safety performance. Significant weight savings were achieved by using aluminum for the hood, door panels and hatchback and by optimizing various body structures.

A raised Z emblem is integrated in the side turn lamps, adding an appropriate touch to the vehicle known world over by a simple letter, Z.

The Fairlady Z comes in a choice of eight attractive body colors, including three all-new Nissan colors: Premium Ultimate Yellow and two three Pearl-Coat (3P) colors - Premium LeMans Blue and Brilliant White Pearl. All exterior colors are standard with Nissan's Scratch Shield, which self-repairs minor scratch marks in the paint surface.

An Interior That Blends Sports Car Functionality With Superior Quality
The new Z's cockpit design pursues a sense of solid security and a feeling of unity with the driver. For example, a wire frame was added to the shoulder portions of the driver's seat for better support. The cushion and main section of the seatback are covered with a slide-resistant suede material. A low driver's seat hip point keeps the body from shifting laterally, providing support for withstanding powerful cornering forces. These features, along with a lumbar support, enable the driver to maintain a proper driving posture at all times.

The interior features a new suede cloth, Forte Suede, which can be attached to three-dimensional panel surfaces (something that was not possible with the types of trim cloth used previously). This high-quality, dense suede cloth has a pleasing tactile feel and imparts a soft, embracing sensation to the cockpit area. The lid of the center stack storage bin is covered with Sofilez, a new, soft-touch synthetic leather that is embellished with double stitching. Meticulous attention was also paid to the material, firmness and finish of the driver's kneepad, providing comfortable support for the inside knee. The center armrest is thoughtfully rounded to avoid interfering with the driver's shifting action.

In addition, the layout of the pedals and steering wheel was revised for easier operation, enabling the driver to execute driving actions quickly. In addition, the front pillars are positioned so as to allow the driver to see ahead easily on curves, while maintaining wide visibility to the right and left sides.

The new Fairlady Z's three large-diameter, independent meters feature a sporty design, excellent legibility and superior functionality. The diameter of both the tachometer and speedometer was increased and the shape of the steering wheel rim was extended outward on both sides to expand the visible area of the meters. The traditional trio of ancillary gauges, a signature Z design from the first-generation, now has an oil temperature gauge as befitting a true sports car (instead of an oil pressure gauge).

This newest model is the first in the Fairlady Z series to adopt Nissan's Intelligent Key system and a push-button engine starter. When the "Engine Start" button is pushed, the needles of the tachometer, speedometer and the trio of three gauges swing in unison as the engine comes to life.

Other refinements for this generation Z include a glove compartment on the passenger side and there is sufficient space behind the seats for carrying small items without folding the passenger's seatback forward. An accessory case is provided that can be used to hold the vehicle inspection certificate. The luggage area can hold two golf bags, and ease of loading/unloading items has been improved. There is also a Bose sound system and an HDD-based CARWINGS navigation system (factory-installed option).

A choice of three interior colors is offered: Persimmon Orange, which expresses an emotional mood; Black that creates a calm, composed ambience; and Gray, which gives the interior a bright, cool and modern look.

Dramatic Advances in Responsive, Linear and Stable Performance
The new Fairlady Z is powered by the VQ37VHR engine with Nissan's Variable Valve Event and Lift (VVEL) system. It generates maximum power of 247 kW (336 PS) at 7000 rpm and maximum torque of 365 N-m (37.2 kgfm) at 5200 rpm. Combining power with ease of driving, this remarkable engine accelerates effortlessly and smoothly all the way to the high-speed range.

The Fairlady Z comes with the world's first 6-speed manual transmission with synchronized rev control that regulates the engine speed to the optimum level, matching the driver's shifting action when changing gears. Also offered is a 7-speed automatic transmission with a manual shift mode that lets drivers enjoy the direct shifting sensation of a manual gearbox along with world-class shift response.

The chassis combines a double-wishbone front suspension with a multi-link rear suspension. In addition to adopting a dual-flow-path construction and internal rebound springs, the shock absorbers incorporate high-responsive ripple control to provide both excellent handling response and supple ride comfort.

Aluminum-caliper opposed-piston Akebono brakes are fitted at all four wheels for driving ease in urban areas and in congested traffic, together with stable braking performance on winding roads and in high-speed cruising.

All of these features combine for an enhanced feeling of high performance, heightening the sensation of driving.

Major Safety Features and Environmental Performance
Every new Fairlady Z comes equipped with a long list of standard safety features, including:

  • Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC)
  • Nissan's high-strength, safe Zone Body construction
  • Body construction for mitigating pedestrian injuries (with pop-up engine hood)
  • Dual SRS air bag systems for driver and passenger
  • SRS side air bag systems for driver and passenger
  • SRS curtain air bag systems
  • Active Head Restraints
  • Seatbelts with a pretensioner and load limiter
  • And, low-friction seatbelts in both seats

All Fairlady Z models are certified as U-LEVs, emitting 50% fewer emissions than the levels mandated by Japan's 2005 exhaust emission regulations. The new Z features a recyclability rate of more than 95% (as calculated according to the guideline adopted by Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association, Inc. in 1998 concerning the definition and calculation method of the recyclability rate of new cars). The Z also offers a reduction of interior volatile organic compounds (VOC).

 
New BMW Z4

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The latest in BMW’s long and successful roadster family has been revealed. The all-new BMW Z4 will go on sale in May 2009 and features a host of innovations never before showcased during BMW’s 75 years of roadster heritage. 

The BMW Z4 is the first to come with a two-piece, electro-hydraulically operated Retractable Hard-Top roof that can be raised or lowered in 20 seconds. The new roadster is also the first vehicle to be offered with Adaptive M Suspension. Electronically controlled dampers offer three different configurations and lower the ride height by up to 10mm for a more dynamic drive. By way of comparison, the Sport+ setting of the new car is comparable to the outgoing Z4’s standard ride comfort level.

The standard Drive Dynamic Control function is another first and allows the driver to alter, depending on model specification, the throttle and steering response, level of ride comfort, Dynamic Stability Control response and, on automatic or Double Clutch Transmission cars, gear change times.

(See downloadable document for clear, formatted table of data)

Model / Power Hp/ Torque Nm / 0–62mph Secs / Top Speed Mph / Combined Mpg/ CO2 Emissions g/km

BMW Z4 sDrive23i / 204 / 250 / 6.6 (7.3) / 151 (149) / 33.2 (34.4) / 199 (192)
BMW Z4 sDrive30i / 258 / 310 / 5.8 (6.1) / 155 (155)* / 33.2 (34.0) / 199 (195)
BMW Z4 sDrive35i / 306 / 400 / 5.2 (5.1) / 155 (155)* / 30.1 (31.4) / 219 (210)

* Electronically-limited. Figures in brackets denote car with automatic gearbox or Double Clutch Transmission.

Powering the new BMW Z4 is a choice of three six-cylinder powerplants. The range flagship is the current International Engine of the Year winning 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged engine. Producing 306hp at 5,800rpm, the BMW Z4 sDrive35i powers its way from zero to 62mph in 5.2 seconds (5.1 seconds for a Double Clutch Transmission-equipped car) and on to an electronically-limited top speed of 155mph. The twin-turbocharged 2,979cc engine with high-precision direct injection technology produces 400Nm of torque from just 1,300rpm for effortless in-gear acceleration. The strong performance credentials are matched in terms of economy and emissions. The Z4 sDrive35i records a combined consumption figure of 30.1mpg (31.4mpg) and CO2 emissions of 219g/km (210g/km).

Joining this model in the launch line-up are the Z4 sDrive23i and the Z4 sDrive30i. Both use the same magnesium aluminium alloy engine with Double VANOS and VALVETRONIC technology, but with varying capacities. The 2,497cc entry-level Z4 sDrive23i produces 204hp at 6,400rpm and 250Nm of torque from 2,750rpm. This equates to a zero to 62mph time of 6.6 seconds (7.3 seconds for the Sport Automatic) and a top speed of 151mph (149mph). In contrast the Z4 sDrive23i is capable of 33.2mpg (34.4mpg) on the combined cycle and CO2 emissions of 199g/km (192g/km) respectively.

All three six-cylinder powerplants surpass the latest strict EU5 emissions standards. 

The BMW Z4 sDrive30i comes with a 2,996cc powerplant offering 258hp at 6,600rpm and 310Nm of torque from 2,600rpm. The six-cylinder engine records a zero to 62mph time of 5.8 seconds (6.1 Seconds for the Sports Automatic) and an electronically-limited top speed of 155mph. Like the Z4 sDrive23i, the Z4 sDrive30i posts impressive combined consumption and CO2 emissions figures, recording 33.2mpg (34.0mpg) and 199g/km (195g/km). 


Transmitting the power to the road in all three Z4s is a six-speed manual gearbox as standard. Customers of the Z4 sDrive23i and the Z4 sDrive30i who prefer the characteristics of an automatic can specify a six-speed Sport Automatic transmission featuring gear change paddles on the steering wheel. Buyers of the Z4 sDrive35i can choose the more advanced seven-speed Double Clutch Transmission, again with gear shift paddles located on the steering wheel. 

EfficientDynamics
All of the latest BMW Z4s come as standard with facets of BMW’s award-winning EfficientDynamics programme. Technologies that improve engine performance while enhancing economy and cutting emissions include Brake Energy Regeneration, Electric Power Steering with Servotronic, Reduced Rolling Resistance Tyres, on-demand control of the engine’s ancillaries and Optimum Shift Indicator on manual transmission cars. The BMW Z4 also adheres to a philosophy of lightweight construction with the front suspension and subframe being largely made from aluminium. 

Enhanced packaging
The new BMW Z4 is larger than its predecessor measuring 148mm longer at 4,239mm and 9mm wider at 1,790mm, and this results in greater interior space and luggage capacity. With the roof up, headroom has been increased by 44mm while the greater car width and design enhancements have led to 20mm more shoulder room and 43mm more elbow room.

For the first time on a BMW Z4 there is a bespoke storage facility located behind the driver and passenger seats. This approximate 15.5-litre single compartment stretches the width of the car’s interior and features netting to hold the contents in place. It can be complemented by an optional Storage Package that adds further stowage capacity. BMW’s latest generation of iDrive makes its first appearance on a Z4. The BMW Professional Multimedia Navigation system features a hard disc drive capable of 12Gb of audio file storage and BMW ConnectedDrive functionality. The system also comes with eight programmable Favourite buttons as system shortcuts. 

The unique roof construction of the BMW Z4 creates a boot that varies in capacity from 180 to 310 litres – large enough to stow a full set of golf clubs. For the first time on a BMW Z4 customers can specify a through-loading system for additional storage capability. A hatch between the two seats permits a second full set of golf clubs to be carried. 

Driver visibility in the BMW Z4 has also been improved. All round visibility is up by 14 per cent while, courtesy of the four electric windows creating a larger glasshouse, side visibility is up 40 per cent. The Retractable Hard-Top roof features a glass rear window and this too improves visibility by 52 per cent. 
Prices for the new BMW Z4 will be announced in 2009. 

 
New Audi R8 V10

 

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Acclaimed aluminium-bodied, mid-engined Audi sports car now available with both ten and eight cylinder power
  • Second R8 model powered by 5.2-litre V10 FSI petrol engine scheduled to open for UK order in January 2009 for first deliveries next spring
  • Available with manual gearbox at £99,575 OTR, or with R tronic sequential shift transmission at £104,665 OTR (R8 4.2 V8 £77,405 OTR and £82,495 OTR)
  • 5,204cc V10 produces 525PS at 8,000rpm and 530Nm at 6,500rpm (R8 4.2 V8 420PS at 7,800rpm, 430Nm at 4,500rpm)
  • 0-62mph in 3.9 seconds, top speed 196mph, combined mpg 20.6 (R8 4.2 V8 R tronic 0-62mph in 4.6 seconds, top speed 187mph, combined mpg 20.7)
  • Combines classic mid-engine configuration with advanced all-aluminium Audi Space Frame (ASF) construction and quattro permanent four-wheel-drive
  • World's first all-LED headlamps as standard, plus Audi magnetic ride adaptive damping and Bang & Olufsen audio system

Audi is sending shockwaves through the sports car establishment yet again with the new R8 V10, a ten-cylinder, 525PS, 196mph evolution of the quattro four-wheel-driven sports car that UK enthusiasts have taken to their hearts. The project that has been the subject of intense speculation since the 2006 launch of the V8-powered R8 is set to come to fruition in January when the new super car opens for UK order priced at £99,575 OTR in manual form, or £104,665 OTR equipped with the R tronic sequential shift transmission. First deliveries are expected next spring. 

The new 5.2-litre FSI V10 petrol engine mounted longitudinally directly behind the cockpit is almost identical in construction to the unit powering the recently announced R8 LMS that will race at customer level in the GT3 class. It contributes only 31kg more to the overall weight of the all-aluminium-bodied R8 than the existing V8, taking it to 1,620kg, and making possible an impressive power-to-weight ratio of 324PS per ton. 

Punching out its 525PS maximum at 8,000rpm, and peak torque of 530Nm at 6,500rpm, this exceptional and highly efficient direct injection unit rockets the R8 through the 62mph barrier in just 3.9 seconds as it revs freely to its 8,700rpm limit in each of its six ratios. When linked to the R tronic transmission it can reach 124mph in only 12 seconds, and in the right conditions can maintain its breathtaking momentum all the way to 196mph - an unprecedented high for a road-going Audi. 


By mounting the ten-cylinder unit as close as possible to the centre of the R8, Audi engineers have achieved near perfect 44 per cent front / 56 per cent rear weight distribution for optimum handling balance. Dry sump engine lubrication - an element specifically derived from racing - also furthers this aim by enabling the V10 to be mounted as close to the road as possible to lower the centre of gravity. 

Advanced Audi magnetic ride 
This classic configuration, combined with advanced Audi Space Frame (ASF) construction mating lightweight aluminium panelling to an aluminium space frame, provides the very best operating conditions for the futuristic chassis with its agile double wishbone set-up and standard Audi magnetic ride adaptive damping system. 

The Audi magnetic ride dampers swap conventional fluid for a magnetorheological solution containing minute magnetic particles that can be influenced by an electromagnetic field. By applying a voltage to the system's electromagnets, the viscosity of the fluid is altered by the affected magnetic particles, increasing resistance to damper movement to iron out pitch and roll when necessary, and reducing resistance when ride comfort takes precedence. The system constantly monitors road conditions and driving style and reacts accordingly. 

The striking 19-inch '10-spoke Y design' alloy wheels naturally contend with the V10's formidable output with the help of the legendary quattro permanent four-wheel-drive system, which apportions power to front and rear axles in constantly varying degrees dictated by road conditions. Ventilated and perforated 380 millimetre front and 356 millimetre rear disc brakes, which at extra cost can be upgraded to virtually fade-free ceramic discs, also help to instil complete confidence. As a whole, the configuration, which also includes a super precise gear shift and fast-reacting, communicative steering, has already been lavished with exceptional praise by critics the world over in the V8-powered R8. 

World's first all-LED headlights 
As a further safety enhancement feature that also adds a new dimension to the already much lauded styling of the R8, the V10 is equipped as standard with the world's first all-LED headlamps. For the first time the high intensity diodes have been used for low beam and high beam settings, as well as for daytime running lights and indicators, intensifying the sports car's visual drama. 

The list of subtle embellishments to the taut, emotive body of the R8 V10 also includes a high gloss finish for the grille and front air intakes, more pronounced side sills, wider side cooling vents within the contrasting 'sideblade', high gloss rear air outlets, oval exhaust tailpipes and a new rear diffuser. 

The everyday usability of the R8 has been as widely commended as its capacity to enthral drivers, and the V10 version will of course be no different. The much praised quality of the interior fixtures and the deceptive amount of space afforded by the generous 2.65-metre wheel base makes this one of the most easygoing super cars ever built, and the V10 with its extra equipment emphasizes this further. In the most powerful R8 to date electric adjustment and heating is added for the Fine Nappa leather-upholstered sports seats, and DVD satellite navigation and a CD changer playable through a 465-watt Bang & Olufsen audio system simplify and enhance day-to-day driving. An interior light package including LED footwell lighting, light and rain sensors and LED engine compartment lighting also comes as standard.

 
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