 The new LT1 is the first of the fifth generation of GM small block aluminium engines, a 6.2-litre V8 set to debut in next year’s all new Chevrolet Corvette. GM fans will notice that it is the same size as the LS3 unit found in the current Corvette, however there are a few differences. Although the basic architecture of the LT1 is the same as the LS3’s, the cylinder block casting is new. The LT1 has more new features, such as: direct fuel injection; variable valve timing; Active Fuel Management, which shuts down half the eight cylinders at low speed; a new cylinder-head design; new sculpted piston design; a tri-lobe design for the single camshaft; as well as a ‘runners in a box’ intake manifold – a system with individual runners that help increase airflow efficiency.  Like most car enthusiasts, when I see a car on the street that catches my attention, chances are I will end up going online to look at how much a second-hand one costs. So having recently seen a 'black-on-black' BMW 645ci (E63) with a rather nice-sounding aftermarket exhaust, I spent a good bit of time on used car websites trying to find out how much little money can get you one, and on YouTube to see which aftermarket exhaust makes it sound best. The 2003-2010 6-Series was introduced when BMW’s design department was under Chris Bangle. It made use of a reincarnated version of BMW’s distinct ‘shark nose’ for the front, a rather odd-looking rear end, and a few Bangle-style creases here and there – making today’s pretty-looking F10 6-Series look rather conservative in comparison. Although it didn’t have the sharp lines of some of Bangle’s other designs, the E63 definitely had some visual impact.  After a rather uneventful week of new car reveals, Porsche sparks things up a little with the reveal of their new Cayenne Turbo S. As the range-topping Cayenne model, it comes equipped with a twin-turbo 4.8-litre V8 engine producing 550hp and 750 Nm (553 lb ft) of torque – the same engine found in the previous Cayenne Turbo S and current Panamera Turbo S. That figure represents a 50hp increase in power from the standard Cayenne Turbo, meaning the Cayenne Turbo S can sprint from 0-100km/h in 4.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 283km/h (176mph). |
