The Toyota Celica Racecar by Jonny Milner Motorsport just took 48 seconds to hit the 1.16 mile mark at the driveway of Goodwood house at the Goodwood 2011 Speed festival. The Celica beat Formula 1 cars and other famous racing cars to achieve this feat. Jonny Miller accomplished it after narrowly missing in his previous attempts by adding on another 100 bhp on the car bagging the fastest time of the day (FTD) in the festival.

The car is a super-lightweight sixth generation Celica which weighed 1,050 kilograms net. The car’s center of gravity was adjusted by raising the wheel arches and upper suspension and the driver’s seat was moved back some 12 inches to compensate for weight adjustments.

The car used a modified World Rally Championship winning Corolla engine Rotrex supercharger that boosted the power output to more than 800 bhp. Michelin tires were also fitted to the winning Toyota Racecar by Jonny Milner Motorsport. The Toyota Celica was always known and considered to be a sports car and its designs have always been associated with the Japanese Sports car category. The achievement made by the Toyota Celica driven By Jonny Milner is a big boost to the popularity of the Toyota Celica.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Coupe

Base Price: NA

Dimensions

Length: 177 in. (449.5 cm)	Width: 68.9 in. (175 cm)
Height: 51 in. (129.5 cm)	Wheel Base: 99.9 in. (253.7 cm)
Curb Weight: 2580 lbs (1170 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA

Performance

Engine: 4-cylinder Supercharger & Turbocharger*	Displacement: 2 LITERS
Horsepower: 700 HP*	Max RPM: 5700 RPM*
Horsepower per liter: 350 HP*	Transmission: 4-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 7.2 seconds**	1/4 Mile: 15.4 seconds**

*Modified Specs
**2002 GTS

Volvo is synonymous with safety and if a consumer is looking for an automobile that is both safe and performs well, then a Volvo is the car for them. This philosophy is ever present in the 2011 Volvo S80. The S80 is ranked 11 out of 16 when it comes to luxury large cars based on more than seventy reviews, test drives and car specifications analysis.

Performance

The 2011 Volvo S80 Comes in two trims, the 3.2L FWD and the 3.0 Liter All Wheel Drive. These engines are automatic turbocharged inline-6. The 3.2 version delivers 19 miles per gallon in the city and 27 miles per gallon in the highway whereas the 3.0 AWD delivers 18 miles per gallon in the city and 26 miles per gallon in the Highway.

Okay, the engine is powerful and the mileage is good but most reviews call the S80 a dull drive. Reviewers are not content with the mediocre performance of the engine, transmission, chassis and suspension and they believe it is not well placed for a midsized luxury sedan, and especially not one with the Volvo name tagged onto its hood. Steering and braking lacks the edge and thrill that most of its competitors offer and certainly not one for a car priced well above $35,000.00.

Exterior

The S80 scored higher in this category. The newly incorporated deep curves and rounded shoulders together with the nostalgic squared off egg crate grill gave the Volvo a very masculine look. However, some deponents contend that the 2011 version looks too much like the older version but more expensive.

Interior

Here is where reviewers believe Volvo got it mostly right. Reviews are divided when it comes to cabin material. Deponents complain that some cabin material seems cheap and/or lackluster which is out of place in a luxury model and brand like Volvo. Proponents believe that the materials are luxurious enough and are soft to the touch as well as pleasing to the eyes, it is just that that the interior is designed to be minimal instead of boisterous like some competitors. However a lot of praise is given to the comfortable and supportive orthopedic seats that are a welcome addition especially on long and bumpy drives. Leg room is superior in both front and back seats. Cargo is where the S80 got it wrong again, the small opening and still smaller space surprised reviewers in a bad way.

Safety

When it comes to safety the Volvo S80 gets everything right. The Insurance Institute for highway Safety scores the S80 with its highest rating for “Good” in front, side, rear, and roof strength. This just goes to show that the superior Volvo safety package is still unrivaled by its competitors. Volvo does not only rely on reputation but backs it up by installing a personal car communicator to allow the driver to know the condition thru its car key. Standard safety features include; whiplash protection, full length head curtain airbags, active head restraints. Additional safety includes a crash prevention system such as cruise control, distance and driver alert, collision warning with auto brake, lane departure warning.

Reliability

In terms of reliability based on a three year reliability trend, meets all the criteria. A standard four year or 60,000 miles warranty and lifetime roadside assistance is also standard to the S80.

Competition

If the consumer is looking for a luxury sedan built like a tank and is less expensive than a BMW, Audi, or a Mercedes Benz then the S80 is the automobile for them. However if the consumer is looking for a curvier and sportier large luxury car then the consumer may want to look at the Infiniti M which is also a “top Safety Pick” now if a consumer would like to save more, then a Buick LaCrosse (MSRP $27,130; 19 city / 30 hwy) may be the better option.

Overall Rating
76 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2011 Volvo S80 is safe and secure, fashion-forward, and just right for affluent families.”Car Connection

“The 3.2’s smooth 6-cylinder provides adequate power but lacks punch compared to V6-powered class rivals and even cars costing thousands less.”Consumer Guide

“The 2011 Volvo S80 is a sensible alternative to flashier luxury sedans, but its anonymous looks and forgettable driving experience dull the car’s desirability.”Edmunds

“If cutting edge design, a high-output V8 engine and complex electronic systems make up your idea of what a luxury performance sedan should be, the 2011 Volvo S80 isn’t going to win you over.”KBB

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $37,150.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons (70 liters)	Miles Per Gallon: 19 city / 27 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 191 in. (485 cm)	Width: 73.3 in. (186 cm)
Height: 58.8 in. (149 cm)	Wheel Base: 111.6 in. (283 cm)
Curb Weight: 3761 lbs (1706 kg)	Curb to Curb Turning Radius: 36.7 ft.
Luggage Capacity: 14.9 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 24-valve DOHC inline-6	Displacement: 3.2 liters
Horsepower: 240 HP	Max RPM: 6200 RPM
Torque: 236 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Geartronic Automatic
0-60 mph: 7.4 seconds	Max Towing Capacity: 3300 lbs (1496.8 kgs)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:T6 AWD

MSRP: $40,900; MPG: 18 city / 26 hwy

Mercedes Benz has been in the business of producing top of the line luxury cars for a long time now and every year the company never fails to make car enthusiast’s jaws drop. The new 2012 Mercedes Benz C 63 AMG Coupe is a high performance car that stimulates all senses with it undeniably sleek design teamed with a dynamic handling and super high-performance driving system.

This two-door coupe model remained and kept the old 6.2 liter V-8 that is naturally aspirated than donning the new 5.5-liter twin turbocharged V-8 engine.

It may be odd that such a company would skip a newer engine but as the results have shown, such engine is very much compatible with Mercedes’ new chassis. The company may have done this due to cost-savings but this choice also made the C 63 retain its chain-smoking sprinter.

The exterior of the car is so sleek comprised of a massive rear diffuser located between the twin exhaust outlets, a power dome made from aluminum and headlights with LED running lamps, this car will surely leave a lasting impression on any passerby and on the road.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Coupe – Base Model	Base Price: $61,430.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 17.4 gallons (65.8 liters)	Miles Per Gallon: 12 city / 19 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 186.1 in. (472.6 cm)	Width: 79.5 in. (201.9 cm)
Height: 56.6 in. (143.7 cm)	Wheel Base: 108.7 in. (276 cm)
Curb Weight: 3924 lbs (1780 kg)	Ground Clearance: 4.2 in. (10.7 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 11.7 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 4 people

Performance

Engine: AMG 6.3L V8	Displacement: 6208 cc
Horsepower: 451 HP	Max RPM: 6800 RPM
Torque: 443 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm	Transmission: AMG Speedshift 7-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 4.4 seconds	Turning Circle: 35.5 ft.

The 2012 BMW 6-Series has finally arrived and it will be available in local BMW dealerships sometime this fall.

The new 6-Series will impress car aficionados with its striking design, sharp driving dynamics, maximized comfort levels and added space. It’s the only car of its kind that offers top-class sporting ability and touring comfort combined with a huge luggage compartment. This new car will definitely meet the highest expectations of driving style and pleasure.

Its unique design gives the new BMW 6-Series athletic elegance. It has a long sweeping hood, set-back passenger compartment, and a short front overhang. With its increased body length and wheelbase, it creates the trademark size of a BMW Coupe. It is also wider, due to its increased track width, giving it an extraordinarily powerful stance that accentuates its imposing road holding. Observers will surely be struck by its dynamic forward-surging presence and driving ability.

The advancements in the new BMW 6-Series also expand to lighting technology. Other features that make the new car unique are its mobility services and driver assistance systems. Lastly, the optional Bang & Olufsen High-End Surround Sound System provides aural pleasure hardly ever experienced inside a car.

Performance

The 2012 6-Series has a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine. This engine generates 400 horsepower at 5,500 to 6,400 rpm, and 450 pound-feet of torque from 1,750 to 4,500 rpm. That engine muscle is managed by an 8-speed A/T as controlled manually using a pair of paddle-shifters. An optional 6-speed manual gearbox is also offered.

Interior & Exterior

The 6-Series was designed to be sporty and elegant, yet natural. Its powerful design and striking low set is brought by its extra width and length. It is embellished with harmonious curves and flowing lines. Also on its exterior, the 6-Series is 192.7 inches long, 2.9 inches longer than its antecedent. Its extensive wheelbase is now 112.4 inches. It is also 74.6 inches across, but 0.36 inches shorter. These dimensions create a notably more potent and stylish impression, with new levels of interior spaciousness. Despite being shorter, the new 6 Series offers larger headroom in both front and back seats.

On a last note, the new BMW 6-Series has tight backseats, small trunk capacity, and lack of USB port and satellite radio standards.

Safety

For safety, the 6-Series has an array of comprehensive safety equipment. It is fitted with lightweight seats which have been newly developed and to complement this, the new car has an incorporated seatbelt system. The new seatbelt system has an adjustable lumbar support and standard 20-way multi-contour adjustability. All seat options have crash-activated head restraints. Other standard safety equipment includes head-thorax side airbags, front airbags, three-point automatic belts for all seats, front belt pre-tensioners, belt force limiters and an ISOFIX child seat in the rear.

The new 6-Series also has the BMW Connected Drive which comprises its mobility services and driver assistance systems. The new car’s wide-ranging Driver Assistance Package is composed of Automatic High Beams, Active Blind Spot Detection, Lane Departure Warning, Rear and Top View cameras, Head-Up Display, and Parking Assistant.

Competition

This BMW 6 has been compared to the Mercedes Benz SL (MSRP $220,562; 11 city / 18 hwy) and Porsche Carrera (MSRP $274,642; 9 city / 15 hwy). Unlike the new 6-Series, the Benz SL is more comfortable for taller drivers. However, it is costly. The Carrera on the other hand, is more loved for its performance and like the SL, is a lot more expensive to own.

Despite these comparisons, many are expecting great things from this car. It has not come out yet, but car enthusiast are happy that BMW was able to manufacture a car that focused less on styling and more on performance and technology.

Overall Rating
64 out of 100

What others say:

“Like other BMWs that use the turbocharged 4.4-liter V8, acceleration is very strong once the turbos get going. Throttle response is a bit touchy, with little happening during the first bit of pedal travel.”Consumer Guide

“With classier styling and significantly more low-end power, the 2012 BMW 6 Series continues its evolution as a world-class grand touring coupe and convertible.”Edmunds

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Coupe	Base Price: $83,000.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons (70 liters)	Miles Per Gallon: 15 city / 23 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 192.8 in. (490 cm)	Width: 74.6 in. (189 cm)
Height: 53.7 in. (136 cm)	Curb Weight: 4233 lbs (1920 kg)
Wheel Base: 112.4 in. (285 cm)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: NA	Maximum Seating: 4 people

Performance

Engine: 4.4L DOHC 32-valve V8 Twin Turbo	Displacement: 4395 cc
Horsepower: 400 HP	Max RPM: 5500 RPM
Torque: 450 lb-ft @ 1750 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 4.9 seconds	Top Speed: 155 mph

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Convertible

MSRP: $90,500; MPG: 16 city / 24 hwy

The C in the C70 stands for convertible. The Volvo C70 boasts a fully automatic hardtop and a radical eye catching design that allowed it to rank 19 out of 21 in terms of Upscale Midsize Cars. This rating was the result of more than fifty reviews, test drives and specification analysis.

Performance & Features

The 2011 Volvo C70 is available in only 1 trim, the two doors Convertible automatic. C70 price starts at $39,500.00. For this price a consumer gets a front wheel automatic turbocharged Gas I5 engine that delivers 227 horsepower and 236 pounds of torque. This power is sent to the front wheel and managed by a five speed automatic transmission with manual shift control. Mileage is 2.5 miles per gallon in the city and 28 in the highway. Basically the C70 has less power and is front wheel as opposed to its competitors.

The C70 lacks the thrill and driving experience that most convertible users crave for. Most reviewers say it lacks a sports car feel and merely has ample response in terms of steering and braking, which for $39,500.00 is certainly not enough. However for those who prefer a quieter and a more stable ride then the C70 is the convertible that they should look at.

Exterior

The 2011 remake of the C70 sports a radical new look which is both sporty and refined. In most cases this look would rate higher but the problem lies in the competition that has raised the bar a lot higher than the Volvo can climb. However some Volvo enthusiast seem to dislike the design of the 2011 C70 and still prefer the more elegant lines of the earlier model.

Interior

Volvo’s signature “waterfall” dash styling which is contemporary, minimal is still present in this model. Dials are minimal and is intuitive in its design and use. Creature comforts for the driver and the front passenger is a definite plus but like all two door convertibles the backseat is not meant for regular use, especially for adult use. The front seats are orthopedic in design which assures proper back and rear support, especially for long drives.

Safety

While federal tests are not yet available the Insurance Institute of highway Safety hails the C70 with the highest score possible in front, side, rear, roof strength and safety. The standard Volvo safety package is still unrivaled in this respect. Full length side curtain airbags, automatic rollover protection bars that automatically come out when needed and a whiplash protection system for both front and rear occupants which Volvo boasts of exclusively offering and the standard anti brake, and other automated Volvo safety main stays that is the root of Volvo.

Reliability

The C70 received 7 out of 10 in terms of safety which is based on a three year trend. The standard Volvo warranty is again top of its class, specifically the four years or 50,000 miles comprehensive warranty and the five years roadside assistance.

If you want a convertible with a sleek interior and sporty exterior coupled with superior safety and level performance then the C70 is the car for you. However acceleration, cargo space and a sporty performance is your prime consideration then better look at the alternatives.

Competition

The Volvo is still a recognized contender in the hard top convertible market but this also means that the Volvo needs to improve a lot to catch up with the BMW 3-series (MSRP $46,450; 17 city / 26 hwy), Infiniti G37 (MSRP $45,750; 17 city / 25 hwy), Lexus IS C (MSRP $41,190; 19 city / 27 hwy). If the consumer is looking for Comfort and safety Volvo is their choice but if it is performance and sports that they crave then better look at the BMW and Infiniti.

Overall Rating
69 out of 100

What others say:

“Attractively restyled this year, the 2011 Volvo C70—a coupe that becomes a convertible—offers a strong overall package with a clean, pleasant interior.”Car Connection

“The 2011 models’ exterior styling has been revised to a look inspired by the Volvo XC60 SUV.”Consumer Guide

“The 2011 Volvo C70 boasts a retractable hardtop, a luxurious interior and a smooth ride, though its middling performance means some competitors will leave it behind.”Edmunds

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Convertible	Base Price: $39,950.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 15.9 gallons (60 liters)	Miles Per Gallon: 18 city / 28 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 180.4 in. (458 cm)	Width: 72.3 in. (183.6 cm)
Height: 55.1 in. (139.9 cm)	Wheel Base: 103.9 in. (263.9 cm)
Curb Weight: 3837 lbs (1740 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.5 in (13.9 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 12.8 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 4 people

Performance

Engine: 20-valve DOHC inline-5	Displacement: 2.5 liters
Horsepower: 227 HP	Max RPM: 5000 RPM
Torque: 236 lb-ft @ 1500-5000 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed Geartronic
0-60 mph: 7.4 seconds	Maximum Speed: 149 mph