Looking for a supercar that can be specifically designed to your own style? The Ultima GTR supercar maybe the best choice! It is a kit car that allows its owner to build it on their own specifications. A person just has to order the kit from its manufacturer, and it will be delivered instantly, right at your door step. The exterior, interior, and engine performance of this car is designed in a way that will surely blow your mind.

History

The Ultima GTR was first created by Lee Noble in 1983. Since then, it had undergone a lot of improvements because through the company’s growth. Through those times, the Ultima GTR became what it is today—a kit supercar with very strong features– then Ted Marlow bought the company. Ted Marlow thought that embedding a large engine on the car will boosts the capability of the Ultima GTR. Now, the GTR is very popular for people who want to compress great speed and great beauty on a single car.

Exterior & Interior

At this time, the exterior of the car is designed by GRP covering and is furnished with the customer’s chosen color. The front of the car is shaped like a slim nose which is complemented by 4 large headlights. On its side, you will notice the style of the doors are taken as a scissor-like-design which swings up and out like the Ferrari Enzo. Also, the car is accessorized by large windows and exhaust pipes. This overall exterior design of the car are specifically created, not only to give the car a classic looks, but also to help it in delivering the best performance and reduce the car’s drag.

On the other hand, the interior of the car is designed to give its driver the feeling of riding a race car. The car has two leather seats by Alcantara which are placed side by side with 2 inches of space in between. The floor and sides of the interior of the car has the surface that is like an exposed welds in car shows. Also, it has a simple design on its dash panel which securely houses the gauges and air source. Other key things on the interior of Ultima GTR are the designs and positioning of billet shifter, steering wheels, and 3 pedals. There are also some optional features that could be imbedded on it, such as heater, air conditioner and safety cage.

Performance

Ultima GTR in terms of its acceleration put up a great competition with other supercars with its LSI V8 engine. It has an initial speed that could go to 64 miles per hour in just 3.3 seconds, and a maximum speed of 231 miles per hour. According to Daton Technologies, the supplier of timekeeping systems for the Guinness Book of World Record; those speed records will surely blow the mind of Ultima GTR users.

Despite the car’s great features, it also has its disadvantages, such as the fact that it’s too pricey and it has some safety issues. Those disadvantages surely didn’t diminish the great features of the car. This means that Ultima GTR is still a lovable supercar.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Kit Car

Base Price: $150,000.00

Dimensions

Length: 157.4 in. (400 cm)	Width: 72.8 in. (185 cm)
Height: 42 in. (107 cm)	Wheel Base: 100.7 in. (256 cm)
Curb Weight: 2182.5 lbs (990 kg)	Ground Clearance: 4.7 in. (12 cm)
Luggage Capacity: NA	Maximum Seating: 2 people

Performance

Engine: Chevrolet V8	Displacement: 6.3-liter
Horsepower: 534 HP	Max RPM: NA
Torque: 528 lb-ft	Transmission: 5-Speed Porsche G50
0-60 mph: 2.6 seconds	Top Speed: 231 mph (371 km/h)

The 2012 Buick LaCrosseis a mid-size luxury sedan that is redesigned and improved. It has been one of the more favored luxury sedans because of its modern styling, impressive driving dynamics, and elegant interior. With the introduction of the eAssist system which improves fuel economy up to 25%, the 2012 LaCrosse takes Buick to the next level. By adding the eAssist system which is a standard feature on all models of the 2012 LaCrosse, the vehicle is fully equipped with a state-of-the-art system.

The eAssist system is Lacrosse’s standard power train. It uses lithium ion battery to propel the car up to 11 kilowatts power in a stooped position. The system’s electronic generator gives a regenerative braking capacity. Because of this, the energy is stored when braking.

Features

The LaCrosse comes in different trim levels namely the Base, Convenience, Leather, Premium which comes in 3 different types, and the Touring trims. The base models come with a 17-inch alloy wheel, full power accessories, keyless entry, cloth upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, power driver seat, split/folding rear seats, tilt/telescoping steering wheel, OnStar, cruise control, a seven-speaker audio system and Bluetooth interface.

The Convenience models features additional power lumbar driver seat, remote ignition an auto-dimming rearview mirror. The Leather trims features fog lamps, leather upholstery, heated mirrors that has a built-in turn signals, full power passenger seats and heated front seats. The Premium 1 version further features auto-dimming side mirrors, driver seat memory settings and rear parking assist. The Premium 2 adds power window sunshades and wood-trimmed steering wheel.

The Premium 3 has additional feature of 18-inch alloy wheels, audio system with 11 speaker surround sound, 120-volt power outlet and sport-tunes suspension. The Touring trim features a 19-inch alloy wheels, xenon headlights, adaptive suspension and blind spot warning system. Further features are navigation system, digital music storage and rearview camera. These features on the upper trim levels can be added as optional features on the lower trim levels.

Performance

The 2012 LaCrosse comes with a choice of two engines. The new hybrid power train with eAssist system is paired with a 2.4-liter 4 cylinder engine that comes with lithium battery pack and 11 kilowatts electric motor. This combination can achieve 182 horsepower and 172 pound feet of torque. Estimated fuel economy is impressive with 25 mpg in the city and 36 mpg in the highway. It comes in a six-speed automatic transmission.

The other engine is the improved 3.6 liter engine which can produce 303 horsepower and 264 pound feet of torque. Estimated fuel economy is 17 mpg in the city and 27 mpg in the highway for front-wheel drive and 16 mpg in the city and 26 mpg in the highway for all-wheel drive.

Exterior & Interior

The exterior of the LaCrosse is attractive. Reviewers have called its styling as very strong and in looks beautiful when you see it in actual appearance. The only difference that is noticeable is the tailpipes which differ in eAssist models and V6 models. The Lacrosse exterior features heated door mirrors, dual exhaust and turn signal indicators on the side mirrors. There are down sides though to the vehicle which are the odd cuttings of the hood and the headlight design is quite unimpressive.

The LaCrosse’s interior features upscale materials with a classy touch. The cabin of this luxury sedan is comfortable and spacious. The seats are supportive and have a lot of legroom. The front seats are comfortable and supportive. Standard front seat includes a front passenger seat that has a 4-way manual adjustment and an 8-way power adjustable driver’s seat. It features a heated steering wheel and ventilated front seats. The 2012 model further features an IntelliLink that connects smart phone through Bluetooth or USB connections and controlling it through the eight-inch color touch screen.

The trunk of the LaCrosse has a small cargo space with only 13.3 cubic feet. The space is even smaller in the hybrid models that have only 11 cubic feet of cargo space. This will be a big problem especially when loading large cargos.

Safety & Reliability

Safety features of the 2012 Buick LaCrosse include stability and traction control, anti lock disc brakes that comes with brake assist, side curtain airbags, side-impact airbags on the front-back seat and OnStar. Optional safety feature is the blind spot alert system.

The federal government gave the 2012 LaCrosse a top over-all score on tests for frontal and side impact. The IHHS also gave the LaCrosse a top score in tests for side-impact and frontal-offset.

The Competition

The Lexus ES (MSRP $36,725; 19 city / 27 hwy) and the Acura TL (MSRP $35,305; 18 city / 26 hwy) are frequently compared to the LaCrosse when it comes to luxurious and comfortable interior. However, these costs more than the LaCrosse’s base models.

Pros:

• Elegant interior
• Admirable driving dynamics
• Good fuel economy in hybrid models
• Good performance in V6 models
• All wheel drive is available
• Top safety scores

Cons:

• Small trunk
• Poor rearward visibility

Overall Rating
83 out of 100

What others say:

“Serious luxury-car comforts as well as high-tech conveniences are available, but they all drive the price of the 2011 LaCrosse well into true luxury-car territory.”Car Connection

“Not what you would call sporty, but LaCrosse handles well, with assuring competence. Even in standard form, the car is more nimble than you would expect given its size.”Consumer Guide

“With the 2012 LaCrosse, Buick has a fully competitive luxury sedan that doesn’t nip at the heels of the big dogs, but instead can now run with the pack.”Edmunds

“The 2012 Buick LaCrosse eAssist driving experience is essentially transparent.”KBB

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Luxury Sedan	Base Price: $29,960.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 15.7 gallons (59 liters)	MPG: 25 city / 36 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 196.9 in. (500 cm)	Width: 73.1 in. (185 cm)
Height: 59.2 in. (150 cm)	Wheel Base: 111.7 in. (283.7 cm)
Curb Weight: 3835 lbs (1739 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 10.8 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 16 Valve DOHC Inline 4	Displacement: 2.4 liter
Horsepower: 182 HP	Max RPM: 6700 RPM
Torque: 172 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Shiftable Automatic

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Convenience Group V6-flex fuel engine	MSRP: $30,430; MPG: 25 city / 36 hwy
Option:Leather Group V6-flex fuel engine	MSRP: $31,895; MPG: 25 city / 36 hwy
Option:Premium I Group(hybrid or V6-flex fuel engine)	MSRP: $32,440; MPG: 25 city / 36 hwy
Option:Premium II Group V6-flex fuel engine	MSRP: $33,865; MPG: 17 city / 27 hwy
Option:Premium III Group V6-flex fuel engine	MSRP: $35,285; MPG: 17 city / 27 hwy
Option:Touring Group V6-flex fuel engine	MSRP: $38,270; MPG: 17 city / 27 hwy

The rotary engine is an integral part of Mazda’s history as a car builder. Over the years, they have created spectacular cars using this innovative motor initially developed by Dr. Felix Wankel. Of course, the foremost of those cars is the legendary RX-7, which solidified Mazda’s reputation of creating fast and fun to drive cars. The one tasked to carry on the RX-7’s legacy is the unconventional looking Mazda RX-8. It is back in 2011, so now the question is, is the 2011 iteration of the RX-8 a good one? We would try to see the details.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Coupe	Base Price: $26,795.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 16.9 gallons (64 liters)	MPG: 16 city / 22 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 175.6 in. (446 cm)	Width: 69.7 in. (177 cm)
Height: 52.8 in. (134 cm)	Wheel Base: 106.4 in. (270 cm)
Curb Weight: 3065 lbs (1390 kg)	Ground Clearance: 4.7 in. (11.9 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 7.6 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 4 people

Performance

Engine: 1.3L 2-Rotor Rotary	Displacement: 1308 cc
Horsepower: 232 HP	Max RPM: 8500 RPM
Compression Ratio: 10: 1	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 6.4 seconds	Maximum Speed: 145 mph (233 km/h)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:RX-8 Grand Touring	MSRP: $32,260; MPG: 16 city / 22 hwy
Option:RX-8 R3	MSRP: $32,290; MPG: 16 city / 22 hwy

Performance

Of course, the Mazda RX-8 is powered by a rotary engine, the only production car currently in the US that uses such. Actually, using a rotary engine for this car makes up most of the pros and cons for this vehicle, but we shall save that for later. The 1.3 liter Renesis engine produces up to 232 horsepower at a very high 8500 rpm. Such ratings give it a very high power-to-displacement ratio, which makes rotary engines compelling specimens in the first place.

Even better than the engine, is the handling. The weight of this car is not just light, but it is also evenly distributed. The result? When combined with rack and pinion steering, 4 wheel ventilated disc brakes, a sport tuned suspension, and an optional traction control system, this car handles just about perfect. It turns precisely; it grips well, and gives proper feedbacks, which are characteristics of a true sports car.

Exterior & Interior

The Mazda RX-8 has always been an oddity when it was released in 2004. While it is a sports car, it has only a few similarities with the RX-7 other than its sports car configuration and the rotary engine. For instance, it is a 4 sweater. And of course, there is the suicide door treatment at the rear that you wouldn’t really observe when looking from it from afar.

At first glance, you’ll think it’s a 2 door coupe, but you’ll be surprised to see that it is not. Still, its unconventional looks, while still a subject of criticism, is still fairly attractive, and makes it stand out over the rest of the field. Now, we move into the interior, wherein we feature the innovative 4-seat configuration, among other things. The theme of the car represents circles, apparently in homage to its rotary engine roots.

The trim used are acceptable enough, and while some people find the controls a bit awkward, it becomes tenable once you get used to it. The rear seats are actually usable, with entering made easier by the suicide doors. While the low seat configuration for both front and rear can take time to get used to, the seats provide enough stability even at speed. As for safety, this car has got some respectable scores in crash tests. However, some have taken issue with the rear pillar making rear visibility difficult.

The Competition

Other vehicles that you may want to compare the RX8 with are the Infiniti G37 Coupe (MSRP $37,150; 19 city / 27 hwy) the Nissan 370Z base coupe (MSRP $31,450; 18 city / 26 hwy), and the BMW 3 Series 328i coupe (MSRP $37,650; 18 city / 28 hwy). All of which are considerably more costly than the RX8.

Pros & Cons

So what are the pros and cons of owning this car? Most of them surround in what makes the RX-8 unique. First, consider the rotary engine. The output of the engine can only be described as prodigal, it can rev in extremely high levels without being too noisy, and its light weight is the primary reason why the car handles the way it is.

However, this same rotary engine lacks torque, most of its power is found on the higher revs, and its fuel consumption rates are awful. The RX-8’s unique car design is a refreshing concept, and allows having 4 seats that are actually usable. However, this same design has its flaws. Its rearward vision is compromised at best, some may not like the seating positions both front and rear, and the trunk space is pedestrian compared to its size.

All in all, the Mazda RX-8 is a mixed bag. It has its share of standout strengths and glaring weaknesses. But all those make this car what it is. It is one of the most unique cars on production today, and it certainly doesn’t lack in character.

Overall Rating
72 out of 100

What others say:

“On the market since 2003, the Mazda RX-8 returns for what could be a final model year in 2011 with no changes.”Car Connection

“Firm, direct steering, along with great grip and balance make RX-8 a delight. It exhibits minimal body lean while cornering.”Consumer Guide

“The RX-8 is a fun coupe that revs exceptionally smoothly, and the ride is impressive for a sports car.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports /

“Offering an adrenaline surge with four-passenger capacity, the 2011 Mazda RX-8 has some practical advantages over the typical sport coupe but is let down by a lack of torque and an SUV-like thirst for fuel.”Edmunds

“While resting at idle, the RX-8 exhibits the distinctive vibration that is the calling card of its rotary engine.”KBB

The Subaru BRZ Concept STI was revealed at the Los Angeles Auto Show, ahead of the Tokyo Motor Show that will unveil the long-rumored production of BRZ Concept which will be held at the end of November. This Japanese-made rear-wheel drive sports car has its engine located at 120mm lower than any other Subaru models, and is 240mm closer to the center.

Along with that, it only weighs to about 3,000 lbs, and with the use of carbon fiber roof which contributes to the ultra low center of gravity, this model is ensured to provide excellent handling even at high speed.

Highlights

The Subaru BRZ Concept STI features a front fascia with an 18-inch hexagonal lower grille, fin-shaped fog lamps, and hawk-eye headlights. The rear end features a wing for added down force and the vented rear bumper corners are said to improve aerodynamics performance. The Subaru BRZ Concept STI is powered by a horizontally-opposed 2.0 liter Boxer engine which is rumored to produce 200 horsepower, combined with the direct injection technology which was specifically developed for the BRZ.

This new “FA” engine is designed with a square bore and strokes of 86x86mm. This engine is directed to the rear wheels by a six-speed manual, or by the optional six-speed automatic. Its performance is refined by STI’s lightweight 18-inch wheels, and STI tuned suspension for lateral stiffness.

Subaru and Toyota have decided not to reveal final production specifications on this model until the car’s official debut in Tokyo, but guaranteed to make an announcement by December. The Subaru BRZ Concept STI is said to be in production by the spring of 2012.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Coupe

Base Price: NA

Dimensions

Length: 165.4 in. (420 cm)	Wheel Base: 101.2 in. (257 cm)
Height: 50 in. (127 cm)	Width: 69.7 in. (177 cm)

Performance

Engine: 2.0 Flat 4	Horsepower: 200 HP
Torque: 151 lb-ft @ 6600 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual

Supercars belong in a world of their own. They command respect and admiration from every car enthusiast, and for most they are just one of those things that you simply must have, and if you are not able, dream on.

Speaking of dreams, and if dreaming about superfast cars is your thing, so be it. Italian supercar manufacturer Pagani’s legacy continues with the Pagani Huayra (pronounced why-eera) with its showing at the 2013 Geneva Autoshow.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Super Sport Coupe

Est. Market Price: £849,000

Dimensions

Length: 181.2 in. (460.2 cm)	Wheelbase: 110.2 in. (279.9 cm)
Height: 46 in. (116.8 cm)	Width: 80.2 in. (203.7 cm)
Curb Weight: 2976 lbs (1350 kg)	Maximum Seating: 2

Performance

Engine: AMG M158 V12 DOHC Twin-Turbo	Displacement: 5980 cc
Horsepower: 720 HP	Max RPM: 5800 RPM
Torque: 740 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm	Transmission: 7-Speed Automatic Xtrac
0-62 mph: 3.0 seconds	Top Speed: 23 mph / 37 km/h

Pagani showcased two Huayra’s, one in Blue France, the other in Red. Both had been fitted with their new Active Aerodynamics software, a front splitter, and the “High Downforce & Handling Pack.”

For connoisseurs who appreciate revolutionary designs and heart-stopping performance from a supercar, the Huayra belongs among the top contenders of the supercar hierarchy.

Engine & Performance

Pagani partnered with Mercedes Benz AMG in building the Huayra’s unique twin turbocharged 6.0L V12 engine. The result is a peak output of 720 hp at a low 5800 rpm generating a behemoth 740 lb-ft torque at just 3,500 rpm.

The Huayra can go from 0 to 60 mph in 3.0 seconds and has a top speed of 230 mph. That burst of power is aided by an X-trac seven-speed sequential transmission while still maintaining a pollution-friendly carbon emission. This makes the Huayra Euro 5 compliant.

Providing stopping power to all that raging speed are special rear air brakes made from high-tech carbon-titanium material.

Exterior

The Pagani Huayra has a carbon-titanium shell making for a light supercar at in the vicinity of 2976 pounds.

Being a true blue Zonda offspring, Huayra still features gull-wing doors as those found in the Mercedes SLS. But unlike the Zonda, the cumbersome wing at the rear is taken out and the rectangular horizontal tail lights have been taken down in favor of circular tail lights positioned at a higher level. Huayra features a different grille.

Interior

Despite being built like a powerhouse machine, the Huayra does not scrimp on luxury when it comes to its interior amenities. The craftsmanship and materials used in its cabin is simply breath taking.

Plush leather, aluminum and glass trimmings, and a multi-function steering wheel that allows the driver to cruise at break neck speeds without taking his hands off the wheel, these offerings contribute to making the Huayra a masterpiece in every way.

Huayra’s piece de resistance is its high-definition multimedia system that features a central touch screen. This touch screen allows the driver to control all important controls of the car such as audio adjustments, Bluetooth control, and satellite navigation.

History

Zonda is the model that made Pagani into the company that it is today. Car enthusiasts from around the world hailed its aggressive and never-seen-before aerodynamic design. It was so successful that it gave birth to rarities like the Cinque and the Zonda F.

All that hoopla is nothing compared to the groundbreaking entrance of the Huayra, as some say that while the Zonda was evolutionary, the Huayra is revolutionary.

Just like the Zonda, the Huayra is named after a South American wind. So it is not surprising that aerodynamics play a key role in the Huayra’s design and engineering. Yes, the Huayra will replace the remarkable Zonda and we will see why the Huayra is deserving of all the hype.

Only 20 Pagani Huayra’s will be available each year at an approximate cost of $1.3M. It is now available in the U.S. which is good news, Pagani’s were previously unavailable in the American market.