Jalopnik: Cabriolet

Fiat 500 Cabriolet Coach Spied With Its Top Closed

Wes Siler — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 10:20:00 EDT

We knew there was going to be a Fiat 500 Convertible, but we didn’t realize Fiat was working on one of those full-length, Citroën 2CV-esque cloth sunroof things. The ahead-of-the-curve opinion-formers over at Next Autos seem to think the car will receive the clunky Cabriolet Coach designation, but we’re not sure if all those chrome letters would fit on the back of the diminutive Cinquecento.

While this soft top Fiat 500 is significantly less gay than the Castagna Tender Two, like all modern retros, it’s still extremely limp-wristed. The coup de grace, in the form of a Mini Convertible-rivaling full-convertible 500 is expected to arrive some time next year. If you’re comfortable with your sexuality and you want people to know it, or you’re just a cute young girl, go for it. Just watch out for Audi Q7s headed in your direction. [via Next Autos]

Delahaye USA Recreating Famous Cabriolet

Ben Wojdyla — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 10:30:00 EDT

Our initial reaction to the idea of recreated Delahayes was one of reservation. How does one capture lightning in a bottle twice — and over fifty years after the original company went out of business? The original coachbuilt Delahayes are some of the most beautifully crafted automobiles of all time, so setting your sights on reproducing them is a tough target to aim for. This is exactly what Delahaye USA is undertaking, and so far we're impressed with the results. Currently under commission is a car which when completed will not only mimic the look and feel of the original, but thoroughly exceed it mechanically.

Delehaye USA is currently building a reproduction of the Type 165 Figoni & Falaschi 1939 Delahaye Cabriolet, a car so slathered in concourse wins its practically sickening. This isn't just a fiberglass chop and drop job either. They're using wooden bucks and pounding out the aluminum body work just as the original coachbuilders would have done. Sure the body is going to be nice, but what about the guts? Instead of a the original V12 (which didn't make it into the original car until around 1981 due to the outbreak of WWII) this one will be receiving a BMW V12 and and an all new suspension. Fantastical features include a disappearing top, jump seats, power retractable windscreen for the rumble seat passengers, who have a full dash complimented by duplicate gauges, bespoke luggage and acres of pampered cow hide. Yes indeed, this will be a beauty, and Delahaye USA, if you need somebody to test drive and review those new masterpieces, give us a ring. [Delahaye USA]

Photo by John Lamm

TechArt Porsche Turbo Cabriolet

Mike Spinelli — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 10:13:55 EST

TechArt's again gone futzing with the latest Porsche models. This time it's the new, 997-model Turbo Cab, and as per usual, horsepower is way up. From the base cab's 3.6-liter flat six, TechArt's wrung 630 horsepower — 150 more than stock and up to 604 foot pounds of torque. Two versions of the wind-tunnel-tested body kit, for street or track duties, meet the ground-effects quota, and a TechArt add-on lowering kit, brakes and an range of interior finishings complete the tuner package. It'll all be shown at the Essen tuner show in Germany this week, along with the latest Teutonica.

Press Release: The TECHART Turbo Cabriolet - Technology and Art.

What is created through passionate precision and with the love of detail emphasises the respect towards an inimitable automobile. Dynamic driving through performance and optimum aerodynamics becomes an experience of the highest art with the TECHART Turbo Cabriolet on the basis of the new Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet. TECHART Automobildesign merges technology and art to produce a complete work.

Functionality and aesthetics are two inseparable components at TECHART Automobildesign. The 3.6 litre Boxer engine is modified in many details at TECHART. Two special turbo chargers, carbon suction pipes and made to measure intercoolers contribute equally to TECHART performance enhancement as the sport air filter and the stainless steel exhaust system with special manifolds and high performance catalytic converters. All modifications are perfectly coordinated using the newly programmed engine management.

Following the individualisation, up to 630 hp / 463 kW and a maximum torque of 820 Nm are available. From 0 - 100 km/h in less than 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 345 km/h, combined with fascinating contours that any enthusiast will immediately notice. The power transmission to all four wheels takes place via a modified six gear manual transmission with TECHART switch path reduction and additional gear oil cooling. Therefore, the cabriolet refined by TECHART is among the fastest super sports cars in the world.

These driving performances place the highest demands in the aerodynamically optimised exterior design. In the wind channel, TECHART developed car body components that lend the TECHART Turbo Cabriolet not only an unmistakable look, but also equally the best possible aerodynamics.

Within this framework, customers can choose between two versions.
The elegant front spoiler of the Aerokit I merges seamlessly with the forms of the bumper and conveys already at first glance pure sportiness. Aerodynamic lateral sills emphasise the stretched side line and lend the flank of the automobile the typical TECHART dynamism. The lowered rear diffuser with additional, lateral air outlets and the entirely redesigned wing profile of the extendable rear spoiler complete the inimitable exterior.

The same applies to the TECHART Aerokit II. The clearly sporty appearance with clear references to the TECHART classic sports car GTstreet cannot be overlooked. Independent Aerokit II front and rear aprons perfect direction of the air masses for an improved inflow of the brakes and the intercooler. At the same time, the buoyant force on the front axle is reduced in connection with the rear spoiler II, while the down force on the rear axle is enhanced additionally.

The electronically adjustable PASM shock absorption system in the new TECHART Turbo Cabriolet is further equipped with the TECHART VarioPlus threaded chassis. This frame not only permits the option of an individually adjustable lowering by up to 25 millimetres, but also the selection of shock absorber settings between "normal" and "sport" at the push of a button in the cockpit. But while driving, one is not restricted to these pre-settings. When driving in a sporting fashion, suspension in both levels automatically gets tighter. This achieves the optimum symbiosis between excellent comfort in normal driving and agile, direct handling when driving fast into the curve.

One of the great arts of TECHART Automobildesign is not only in the name of the refiner - the individual design work turns the full circle of the performance portfolio and mirrors the philosophy of the company. The finest and highest quality leather hides, the extraordinary attention in the creation and processing of the desired interior and the craftsmanship of the TECHART upholstery shop, matured over years, provide customers with the car created specifically for them with the certain nuance of their personal style.

Technology and Art.
Only if crafts tradition, tried and tested technology and passionate precision come together perfectly can works of masterful art be created.

TECHNICAL DATA
TECHART Turbo Cabriolet on the basis of the 997 Turbo Cabriolet

• Aerodynamics:
TECHART Aerodynamic Kit I consisting of:
Front spoiler lip, side sill, rear diffuser and rear spoiler
TECHART Aerodynamic Kit II consisting of:
Front spoiler, side sill, rear apron and rear spoiler
Headlight shades / mirror shades / roof spoiler / air outlet grid in the front apron

Engine (for manual transmission and Tiptronic S):
Performance enhancement TA097/T1 to 389 kW (530 hp)
Performance enhancement TA097/T2 to 389 kW (580 hp)
Performance enhancement TA097/T3 to 389 kW (630 hp)
Sport exhaust system and flap exhaust system /
End pipes in high gloss chromium and matt black

• Power transmission (for manual gears):
Sport clutch / switch shortening / ball bearing mounted switching paths

• Chassis:
TECHART VarioPlus threaded chassis
Sport suspension set / sport stabilisers
Strut mounting / spacing disks

• Wheels:
TECHART Formula / TECHART Formula II light metal wheels
Front 8.5Jx20 with 245/30 R 20 ContiSportContact3 or Michelin Pilot Sport PS 2
Rear 12Jx20 with 325/25 R 20 ContiSportContact3 or Michelin Pilot Sport PS 2

• Brakes:
TECHART Sport Braking System Plus
VA: 390mm, 6-piston aluminium callipers, HA: 365mm, 4-piston aluminium callipers
Steel flex brake kit

• Interior:
Leather fittings
Aluminium line (pedals, entrance boards, gearshift head)
Steering wheels / sport seats / optic packages (interior components lacquered) / carpet fittings

LA Auto Show: Audi Cross Cabriolet quattro Live Reveal

Jonny Lieberman — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 15:45:00 EST

Audi pulled out the huge guns to reveal a car that has as much of a chance hitting showrooms as Dennis Kucinich does defeating Ron Paul for President of the Internet. How big? NBC's Today travel editor Peter Greenberg emceed the whole shebang and even managed to semi-hardball some $100 a barrel, $4.00 per gallon petrol questions to Audi folks. Not big enough? OK, how about Frank Gehry, the world renowned architect and designer of LA's own ~~exploded artichoke~~ Walt Disney Concert Hall. Mr. Gehry acknowledged that while he tries to build great buildings, Audi does the same when it comes to cars. Oh, the Cross Cabriolet quattro? Well, it has a 3.0-liter, 240 hp diesel mill that stumps up an impressive 369 ft-lb of the twisty stuff. It will hit 60 mph in 7.2 seconds, was designed in Santa Monica and is painted in a Sunset Blvd. inspired color called, "Sunset Copper." And... that's about it. Ah, right, funny Audi-speak phrase of the year from Chairman Rupert, "We are owning 40% of the premium market in China." Also, be sure to dig through the gallery for the booth babes. These two are worth it.

Frankfurt Auto Show: Turbo Cab, F*** Yeah!

Mike Spinelli — Wed, 12 Sep 2007 13:00:42 EDT

Considering the 997 911 Turbo Cabriolet hasn't had a proper intro until this week at the Frankfurt show. The twin turbocharged 3.6 liter six-cylinder has Porsche's Variable Turbine Geometry (VTG) that reduces turbo lag while providing requisite pull at higher revs. The powerplant already generates 480 hp and 457 lb-ft of torque at 1,950 rpm. Porsche also offers the "Sport Chrono Turbo Package", which includes an overboost function that produces intermittent peak torque of 501 lb-ft. You can't tell from the Frankfurt show floor shots, but the turbo cab can get to 62 mph faster with the Tiptronic S tranny than with the manual (four seconds vs. 3.8). Robot shifting, f*** yeah!

Audi A3 Convertible...Again

Ray Wert — Tue, 28 Aug 2007 11:45:00 EDT

The Fans of Cars across the World have snagged themselves some new shots of the new Audi A3 cabrio set to debut next year at Geneva. As we've shown you last week, the entry-level Audi drop-top mini-fighter looks like it took the current A3's front end and then strapped the A5 on to the back. [via World Car Fans]

Audi RS4 Cabrio Coming to America

Mike Spinelli — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 09:49:25 EDT

Looks like the rumors were true. AudiWorld says it's confirmed that Audi will bring the coveted RS4 cabriolet to the US market, giving Lieberman yet another thing to live for. AuWd says the 420-hp drophead will be sold in extremely limited number — around 300 — and only in the US (sorry Manitoba). Still no Avant, however, which couldn't work out a battery-placement detail holding up its US crash-test worthiness. Bollocks. – Mike Spinelli

RS4 Cabriolet Confirmed for US Market [AudiWorld]

Porsche Releases New 911 Turbo Drop-Top

Ray Wert — Mon, 07 May 2007 09:45:00 EDT

The 911 was first given the 997 series designation with the ~~2004~~ 2004 release of the 2005 model year redesign, and as expected, the new-for-2008 model of the Porshe's iconic convertible won't be the start of a new designation, nor will it receive much in the way of new styling for the upcoming year when it hits "the starting line" on September 8th. The main changes appear to be similar to the new-look of the coupé version — that is, a larger air intake on the front-end, some new front and rear lighting. The highly precise engineers at Porsche have also found a way to drop the top on the 911 with only an increase of about 154 pounds in engineering and structural enhancements on top of the weight of the coupé. All sorts of over-hyped PR verbiage like "deliberate design," "exemplary value" and "appealing driving characteristics" in the press release after the jump. – Ray Wert

New 911 Turbo Cabriolet
Stuttgart. Dr.Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, Germany, will be sending the new 911 Turbo Cabriolet to the starting line on September 8. The 20-year tradition within the 911 Series of the 911 Turbo with a classic soft top is continued with this open, top model. Firstly, the open 2+2 seater offers the driving performance of a high-performance sports car while still providing convertible driving pleasure. Secondly, compared to the competition the 911 Turbo Cabriolet is economical in its fuel consumption, thanks to its deliberate design, outstanding aerodynamics and advanced engine technology

As with the 911 Turbo Coupé, the Cabriolet will also be powered by a 3.6 liter six-cylinder 'boxer' engine with biturbo turbocharging and Variable Turbine Geometry (VTG). The powerplant already generates 480 hp (353 kW) and 620 Nm of torque at 1950 rpm. With the new, optional "Sport Chrono Turbo Package", which includes an overboost function, up to 680 Nm is even intermittently possible. The manual transmission version can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just four seconds. With Tiptronic S the time can be cut to 3.8 seconds. Both versions can reach speeds of up to 310 km/h. Fuel consumption for the 911 Turbo Cabriolet is 12.9 liters per 100 kilometers - an exemplary value in the competitive environment.

In spite of the convertible-specific reinforcement of the chassis and automatic and the extendable rollover protection behind the rear seats, the open version of the 911 Turbo only weighs 70 kilos more than the Coupé. The light, three-layer soft top, which can completely automatically be opened or closed in roughly 20 seconds, enables a low balance point.

Together with the running gear that is tuned to convertible-specific needs, which includes the active suspension system Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) as standard equipment, the new 911 Turbo Cabriolet offers the sporting driving performance typical for a Porsche 911 as well as extremely high driving safety together with appealing driving characteristics. The driving stability control Porsche Stability Management (PSM) and the managed all-wheel drive Porsche Traction Management (PTM) also contribute to its uncommon performance. The system with an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch can, according to the requirements, alternatively shift the drive output from the engine between the front and rear axles, and - with shift intervals of a maximum of 100 milliseconds - quicker than the reaction of the engine to load changes.

With a drag coefficient of Cw=0.31, the 911 Turbo Cabriolet travels at the level of the coupé models. Together with the rear spoiler, which automatically extends at speeds from 120 km/h - extending 30 mm further than with the Coupé, the vehicle is the only standard series convertible that generates negative lift at the rear axle. Along with its passive safety systems, including six airbags as standard equipment and the comprehensive rollover protection system - with steel tubing integrated into the windshield frame and an extendable rollover protection behind the rear seats - the 911 Turbo Cabriolet also fulfils all legal requirements for passive safety applicable in the worldwide sales markets. Furthermore, it is equipped with one the most high-performance brake systems. The six-cylinder fixed-brake caliper up front stems from the Porsche Carrera GT. Upon request, the race-proven and light Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake (PCCB) ceramic brake system is also available for the 911 Turbo Cabriolet.

Also included in the extensive standard series equipment of the 911 Turbo Cabriolet are Bi-Xenon headlights, 19 inch forged wheels with two-tone appearance, an air conditioner, the wind deflector, the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) - with the navigation module and 5.8 inch color monitor and the Bose Surround Sound System, among other things. The basic price in euro for the Turbo Cabriolet is EUR 126,600. In Germany the price is EUR 150,862 (including VAT and country-specific requirements).

Porsche 911 Turbo Cabrio: Erhöhter Luft-Druck [Auto Motor und Sport via Autoblog]

Buy a Cabriomino!

Davey G. Johnson — Tue, 07 Nov 2006 01:45:59 EST

If a Type-2 with a non-bus body simply isn't enough VDubamino for you, might we suggest this '85 Volkswagen Cabriolet pickup? Perfect for fans of FWD watercooled droptop Volkswagen fun who are bored with watching the top go up and down on their new Eos, this fine example of People's Truckletdom can be had for a low, low Buy It Now price of 3,999 on eBay. You buy it, we'll fill the bed with hot water and find somebody who knows some chicks. [Thanks to Michael for the tip.] – Davey G. Johnson

1985 Volkswagen: Cabriolet CabrioPickUp [eBay]

Related:
More El Caminos [Internal]

Spy Photos: Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet, Targa

Mike Spinelli — Fri, 14 Apr 2006 08:56:42 EDT

They've kept us waiting for a couple extra years since the first 997-generation cars started appearing, and Porsche says we'll have to go ahead and wait some more for next (and last?) models. Still, spies caught shots of the upcoming 911 Turbo Cabriolet and Targa during harsh-weather testing somewhere north of Iceville, Coldovia. The cab may never see this kind of weather again, unless Los Angeles swaps ends with Skagway-Hoonah-Angoon County, Alaska. Road trip!

Porsche 911 Targa and Turbo Cabrio Spy Photos [World Car Fans]

Geneva Premiere: Audi Lets Fly the RS4 Cabriolet

Mike Spinelli — Tue, 28 Feb 2006 11:55:49 EST

Audi made good with its promise to extend its RS4 performance line into the heretofore untapped high-performance droptop market. Purists will lament the lack of a roof to keep the 420-hp V8 from twisting the frame into an Aunte Anne's pretzel, but the company says some particular beefing up has taken place within to prevent such atrocities from occuring. Plus, you get to hear the sound of that V8 unmasked by steel and sound-deadening polymers. That's gotta be a good thing. We couldn't bring ourselves to ask the price, not that the're ready to spill out all those zeros without at least a Roomba in place to suck them up.

Related:
Official Audi RS4 Avant and Cabrio Pics [internal]

Spy Photos: Ford Focus Coupe Cabriolet

Mike Spinelli — Thu, 16 Feb 2006 08:03:39 EST

Car-chasing spies have caught what looks to be the upcoming European Ford Focus coupe cabrio, clad in a mild disguise for cold-weather testing. It's likely the production version of the Focus Vignale concept — designed with Pininfarina — which debuted in Paris in 2004 and made the auto show rounds last year to cheers of "build it" by the world press. Ford says that's just what it'll do, and the Pininfarina-built droptop will be out in Europe later this year. Not in the US, sadly.

Ford Focus CC Spy Photos [World Car Fans]

Related:
Geneva Preview: European Ford Focus ST [internal]