Filed under: Convertibles, Paris Motor Show, Mazda
We finally had the opportunity to check out the 2009 Mazda MX-5 in person, and despite the tweaks being minor, we like what we see.
This is one of those instances where the press pics don't do it justice. It's difficult to see the RX-8-inspired revisions to the front end, but on closer inspection, the new headlamps, five-point air dam and blistered arches all flow effortlessly into its predecessors lines. Out back, the redesigned taillamps are easy to miss, but we'll be the first to say we prefer the outgoing models red lenses.
More importantly, the 2009 model gets an extra 500 rpm before redline, new 16- and 17-inch aluminum wheels and an upgraded gearbox that has new carbon-coated synchronizers for easier, smoother shifts. Additionally, the front suspension knuckles and roll center have been revised to provide even more steering feel and a more confident ride.
Sales are set to begin in Europe towards the middle of next year, with North American sales beginning shortly thereafter. Hit the jump for the press release.
Continue reading Paris 2008: 2009 Mazda MX-5
Permalink�|�Email this�|�Comments Read more ...Filed under: Car Buying, Etc., Government/Legal
Last week Congress signed a bill that frees up $25 billion in low interest loans for all automakers (including non-domestics if they plan to spend the money on green tech) and suppliers that spend money in the U.S. to develop green technologies. That was a big deal for Detroit automakers struggling to stay afloat during an abominable automotive downturn. According to the Wall St. Journal, the $700 billion economic "rescue plan" fighting its way through Congress at the moment also includes money to bail automakers out of bad car loans, which in turn would supposedly go a long way toward freeing up money in the woeful car loan market. We're assuming this car loan bailout issue isn't just for Detroit automakers, as several overseas automakers offer financing here in the States, and plenty of banks are knee deep in car loans, as well. After looking at the positively radioactive sales for September, it's clear that the economic crisis is also affecting car sales. Not only are people finding it harder to get car loans even if they have good credit, but many would-be shoppers are staying away from big ticket purchases altogether until this fiscal mess gets fixed.
[Source: Blogging Stocks]Read�|�Permalink�|�Email this�|�Comments Read more ...
Filed under: Convertibles, Sports/GTs, Paris Motor Show, Supercars, Ferrari
Click either image to view the Ferrari California live in high resolution
It's not every day that Ferrari unveils a new sportscar. And when it does, it's almost invariably billed as a successor to the one that came before, or a version of something already on the market. But the Ferrari California is an entirely different beast, expanding the Prancing Horse's line-up into a new segment, and it certainly looks the part when viewed up close. We'll have to reserve our judgment for the time being on the California's driving dynamics, but the Italians promise it'll keep up its end and then some with its new direct-inject, 460-hp version of the company's 4.3L V8. In the meantime, today was a big day for Ferrari, and we've got the pictures to prove it. Click the thumbnails below to see for yourself.
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Filed under: Convertibles, Infiniti
A second teaser shot for the upcoming Infiniti G37 Convertible has found its way onto the web, and the timing couldn't be better considering the debut of the Lexus IS250C today at the 2008 Paris Motor Show. Both cars will be setting their sites on the BMW 335i convertible, and the G37 'vert will be packing a 328-horsepower 3.7L V6 in its holster when the time comes. Other features include a three-piece folding hardtopIts and a seven-speed automatic transmission, as well as a completely redesigned rear end to accommodate the new roof. The G37 Convertible's official debut isn't until the LA Auto Show in November, at which time we'll get to fully see how the G37 Coupe translates into a convertible. Until then, check out the teasers in our gallery below.
[Source: Motor Authority]Permalink�|�Email this�|�Comments Read more ...
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