If it’s a luxury sports car that you are looking for, one of the top choices to decide from would be BMW’s 2011 Z4 model. BMW definitely outdid themselves with this new version of the Z4 which features a new sports tuned trim level with an M Sports Package. This year’s model was strategically designed with great power performance, chic and sexy form and a touch of luxury.

It is considered one of the most wanted automobiles in the market today. With the new model, BMW offers a new trim level, the sDrive35i has enhanced power and better sports driving dynamics and with these features it can have most other models in the same class a run for their money. It can take on other high power models such as the Porsche Boxster and simultaneously infusing the Z4 with luxury and performance.

The new Z4 comes with multiple trims namely, the sDrive30i, sDrive35i and sDrive35is. The latter being the sports tuned trim level. All of which come standard with the automatic retractable hardtop that does the job in a third of a second.

Performance

Performance wise, test driver’s account that BMW has pushed the limits to set a higher standard in terms of driving dynamics. The 2011 Z4 holds up to its reputation as one of the best sports cars to date being set with a package of 35 added horsepower, due to a twin turbo inline-6, improved steering and 18 inch wheels and an exterior kit that is aerodynamic, BMW definitely outdid their job with this car.

Exterior & Interior

The exterior of the Z4 has by far improved since the initial launch two years ago having a sleek and sexy design. While the interior boasts of better quality seating that is exquisitely comfortable and set for an enhanced sports driving experience. The Z4 has better posh interiors that have given it that successfully luxurious feel to it most especially the all leather inside give it a unique edge.

Safety & Maintenance

In regards to the safety and reliability of the vehicle, BMW has eliminated several blind spots that have been an issue with previous models. This was done by enlarging the windows of the recent model. The 2011 BMW Z4 is also equipped with a dual airbag system termed, Dual-airbag Supplementary Restrain System that is intended to protect both the driver and passenger in case of collisions. The Z4 like most BMW models, carries a four year warranty or up to 50,000 miles. Within this time period or amount of mileage, owners of the model can avail of all maintenances required for the Z4 to keep it in perfect shape and running condition. And all of the services rendered within the time period are free of charge so there are no concerns regarding any extra charges regarding the vehicle.

Competition

When looking out for other options to match engine power and performance with the Z4, two of Porsche’s models come to mind, the Boxster (MSRP $48,100; 19 city / 27 hwy) and the Cayman Coupe (MSRP $51,900; 19 city / 27 hwy), the latter having similar features to the Z4. These two models were designed for sports driving and tougher handling on the road but a downside with the Boxster is that its hardtop has to be manually removed in comparison to the Z4 that has an automatically retractable top down.

Overall Rating
72 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2011 BMW Z4 is an exhilarating sports car, and one of the better choices for touring, but next to other roadsters it’s pricey.”Car Connection

“All engines are smooth and strong, and the 35i/35is have almost no turbo lag.”Consumer Guide

“Smooth and powerful engines, quick-folding hardtop, comfortable ride, big trunk (with the top up), excellent visibility for a roadster, sharp styling inside and out.”Edmunds

“BMW’s purest sports car in the traditional sense, the Z4 returns in 2011 wearing the flowing liquid lines and power-folding hardtop introduced in 2009.”KBB

Specifications

The 2012 Ferrari 458 Italia Grand Am is fast becoming known as the American version Ferrari. The car was brought into the US to be tested at the 2011 Daytona International Speedway by consistently achieving Ferrari race divers Jaime Melo and Toni Vilander. Tests and development work on the car will continue in preparation for its participation in the 2012 American Championship.

Specifications

Changes done on the car to conform to American regulations made it more look like an American car. The Ferrari 458 Italia Grand Am appears sleeker with the installed roll-bar that provides increased safety for this Ferrari model known for collisions. Changes in the brake system, maximum horsepower output, and aerodynamic designs are being considered in anticipation of the races. The Ferrari 458 Tires are exclusively supplied by Continental that makes sure the tire hardness conforms to the series requirements.

Ferrari has consistently done well in the famous 24-Hour Daytona race and these tests are the best way to prepare for the tough contests ahead. Initially, the test results of the Ferrari 458 Italia Grand Am have been great and trouble-free. The drivers are satisfied and look forward to the fine performance of the car in the coming races.

*ALL STOCK SPECS

Car restoration is still a big fad as many car collectors still search and buy old original cars to put them back into their original state. It is mainly done by car collectors who enjoy the beauty and elegance of past legendary models like the Bugatti, Delahaye, Pierce, Arrow. Mercedes, and many others. Attempts by companies in the 1970’s to recreate some cars of such classic designs did not fare well.

Taking advantage of the advancement in metallurgy and carbon fiber technology, Delahaye USA has recently embarked in producing modern renditions of the classic designs. Delahaye plans to offer a turnkey version of their inspired creation called Bella Figura Type 57S in an alloy body at $450,000 dollars or in the painted or clear-coated carbon fiber version at $250,000.

It is best to see first the ¼ scale model or the full body scale carbon fiber display before considering the offer. The design is inspired by the 1937 Bugatti Type 57S which is most appropriate because recent auctions of original Bugatti sports cars have netted amounts ranging from 5 to 30 million dollars. Car collectors obviously value this particular model, which is a pre-war sports car with a unique dorsal fin design.

Volvo has a long history of creating the best station wagons that money can buy. They are built the Volvo way, capable of providing a safe ride for an entire family while being able to withstand the harsh terrain characteristic of Swedish roads. All of these characteristics are then transmitted into a practical and well designed station wagon shell. Up to this day, Volvo is still creating wagons, with one of the more compelling ones being the 2011 Volvo XC70.

Performance

There are 2 choices for engines: the 3.2 liter inline-6 is capable of producing 240 horsepower and the 3.0 liter inline 6 cylinder turbo, capable of producing 300 horsepower. Then, this is mated with a six speed transmission that can relay the engine’s force thru the front wheels or thru all 4 wheels, depending on the selected trim.

Exterior

The first time that you see the XC70, you are going to scratch your head and ask yourself this. Is that a wagon that looks like an SUV? An SUV that looks like a wagon. It’s more like a wagon that somehow consumed some of the crossover vibe due to its SUV-type cues. With a four wheel drive train standard on all trims and a ground clearance that is higher than just about any station wagon, the XC70 can be seen as another car that is imbibing on the expanding crossover market. While we guess what the XC70 is, what we can figure out is this. Just how good is the Volvo XC70?

Interior

The XC70 is based on the Volvo V70 wagon, with a lot of upgrades that makes it look like a heavy duty V70. The third generation of this model can either be classified as a midsize wagon or a crossover. It has amenities that you expect in this price range. The interior is lavishly decorated, with the trademark Volvo simple yet efficient interior style. It can seat 5 adults comfortably, and it houses a whopping 72 liters of storage space in the rear, a number that is large even for SUV/crossover standards. In addition, while its styling is a slight deviation from the traditional Volvo look, the design still looks great and efficient.

Safety

Based on feedback, Volvo XC70 owners have a lot to like about their car. For those that are looking for a family car, this is a weapon of choice. Groups of people can enjoy long trips with this car, and can bring along a ton of loot with it too. Also, driving this car is very confidence inspiring. There are 2 reasons for this. The 4 wheel drive system gives a ton of grip that it makes you capable of driving thru any condition. And that Volvo brand of safety. With all the gizmos that would keep all passengers as safe as possible, it’s almost like getting into a tank.

In addition, the usual Volvo safety feature made it to this product too, with adaptive cruise control, adaptive bi-xenon headlights, and a collision warning system.

Pros & Cons

However, there are also bad things to be said about it. The primary complaint about the XC70 by owners is that it lacks the performance. Even though it possesses strong engines, for some reason, compared to other cars in its class, it is lethargic. Also, it doesn’t seem to know what it is. Is it a wagon or an SUV? The answer seems neither.

All in all, the Volvo XC70 is a bit of a mixed bag. While it hasn’t excelled in a specific area, it’s pretty good in just about everything. If you want a versatile vehicle that offers the best of what a wagon and a crossover can offer, then this car is right for you.

Overall Rating
73 out of 100

What others say:

“Based on the last-generation S60 sedan, the XC70 maintains its pleasant blend of rugged details on a handsome wagon body.”Car Connection

“The 2011 Volvo XC70 gets more power, and the lineup expands to include a new front-wheel-drive variant.”Consumer Guide

“We generally prefer wagons to SUVs due to their superior fuel economy and handling, but the 2011 Volvo XC70 doesn’t offer any such advantages when lined up against more modern and efficient crossovers.”Edmunds

Specifications

The 21011 Kitcherer Mercedes-Benz CLS Edition Black is a compact sport car easily distinguished from other sports car of its class. Powered by a highly efficient V8 engine, the model has elegance and sporting qualities rarely found in balanced combination. The 470 Hp engine is efficiently set to immediate response by the unique KICHERER power converter installed in the vehicle.

The beautifully constructed rear tailpipes boast of an exhaust system that yields exquisitely sounding roars. This particular model has the features that can truly mark it as modern sports car. The 20 inch forged wheels are mounted in gracefully in the four door classic body that gives the car a unique ambience of luxury and power, truly in a class of its own.

As early as when first introduced, many have predicted that this model will be soon popular because of its combined features of power and elegance. The predictions seem to be coming true as many realize that this model is the most powerful mass produced car in the market today. The best convincing feature that the Kicherer Mercedes-Benz CLS Edition may have is the ease of operating the vehicle with its modern brake system and excellent steering elements boosted by a powerful engine that instantly responds to the driver’s touch.

Specifications

*BASE MODEL SPECIFICATIONS