Jalopnik: Nurburgring

Even More Of The 2010 Acura NSX Rounding The 'Ring

Ben Wojdyla — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 10:20:00 EDT

Yes, we've seen the 2010 Acura NSX making a big splash with its camouflaged world debut in Germany. We've also briefly seen the car making its way around the Nürburgring's Nordschleife. Now, however, we're going to sit back and soak in that V10 symphony thanks to a new video providing over three minutes of footage straight from the 'ring. Our assumption is Honda wasn't content with that 7:37 'ring run after hearing all the hubbub about the 2009 Corvette ZR1 making a run in 7:26.4. So they've gone back out — testing and tweaking away. The life of a test engineer must be a heavy burden to bear. Video after the jump.

Silly foreigners, calling an Acura a Honda. [auto motor und sport via Youtube via WCF]

All-American Racer Flying Over The 'Ring

Mark Arnold — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 18:30:00 EDT

Dan Gurney's Eagle taking flight during the 1967 German Grand Prix at the Nurburgring. Who says us Americans are new to this place?
[source]

Corvette ZR1 Laps Nurburgring In 7:26.4

Mark Arnold — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 12:35:00 EDT

Today, the 2009 Corvette ZR1 officially stepped up the global war for Nürburgring supremacy, as General Motors development engineer Jim Mero drove a stock ZR1 around the Nürburgring in a time of 7:26.4. That's significantly faster than the 7:29 lap set by the Nissan GT-R. We can't wait to see what the rest of the world's supercar competitors are gonna do now to step up their game.

GM assures us that the lap time was set by stock ZR1, fitted only with extra safety and communications equipment. Everything else, from the production-spec Michelin Pilot tires, to the factory-spec ride height and suspension settings were untouched. Even the fuel was normal pump gas, though that stuff is still probably like $500 per gallon in Germany, right? None the less, this is the same spec car that people all across the country are going to buy at an inflated price, and inevitably hide away in their garage only to be driven on Sundays. Let's hope some this isn't the last we'll see of the ZR1 ripping up a racetrack.
[General Motors]

2010 Acura NSX Reportedly Already Running 7:37 at Nurburgring

Ben Wojdyla — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 14:01:00 EDT

Yes the recently seen 2010 Acura NSX is on the Nurburgring apparently attempting to fulfill a mandate from Honda CEO Takeo Fukai to beat the Nissan GT-R's best time of 7:29. According to sources on-site, the new front-engined embodiment of the NSX has been unofficially clocked running a scorching 7m 37s, nipping at the heels of Godzilla. Of course, these numbers mean nothing until we get official times, but if this car is already running quick in prototype form, you have to wonder what it will do when it's ready for the public.

[Car Tribe]

2009 Porsche 911 Faster Around The 'Ring, Still Not As Fast As The GT-R

Matt Hardigree — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 10:20:00 EDT

The 2009 Porsche 911 is a touch faster than the 2008 version around the 'Ring, posting a 7:58 in Carrera S trim. This is also faster than a Cadillac CTS-V (barely) but still much slower than the Nissan GT-R dry time of 7:29. That's gotta hurt. Home turf, even. Though we doubt this will dissuade the dentists and accountants who get off on being able to correct their friends. "Porsh-uh, Sally, Porsch-uh."

To make Porsche feel better, many other companies will be racing around the 'Ring, lowering the average times. We're cool with the Audi R8 V10, and the TT-RS is probably pretty quick but... the 2010 9-4x? We're guessing the Porsche is faster than that. [InsideLine]

Audi TT-RS Spotted Lapping The Ring, But What's Going On Underneath?

Matt Hardigree — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 10:00:00 EDT

Audi must've rented the 'Ring for the day, since we first got a glimpse of the R8 V10 and now we see a unique TT. With so many variations of Audi's sprightly TT coupe running around, sometimes the differences can appear minor at first. Take these pictures gathered by the folks at Bridge To Gantry of what appears to be an Audi TT-S. But look a little closer and you'll notice the 12-spoke RS-style wheels and ovular exhausts instead of the two dual-pipes on the TT-S. If this is the Audi TT-RS, what's it sound like?

According to those on the scene, it wasn't the register of a five-cylinder engine but rather the "thrum of a cliche-smooth V6." Could this mean the rumors of Audi taking the 3.6-liter V6 from the Passat R36 and trying to squeeze it into the TT were true? We're not sure, but like Fox Mulder: we want to believe. [Bridge To Gantry]

Audi R8 V10 Caught Testing On Nurburgring

Andrew Stoy — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 16:20:00 EDT

Adding to our recent video proof of the new R8 V10, plus still shots, we've got even more 5.2L Audi goodness. And just to prove they're serious, Audi's giving the new beast a shakedown on everyone's favorite test track, the Nurburgring Nordschleife. While we don't have lap times yet, rest assured that we're working on arranging a triple shootout with the Zonda F and the Nissan GT-R. Hey, a guy can dream.

Official Volkswagen Scirocco GT24 Photos, Looks Ready for Race Day

Ben Wojdyla — Thu, 22 May 2008 15:40:00 EDT

You knew it was coming, and we've seen a head-on shot of the Volkswagen Scirocco GT24 race car, but now the full studio set is out for the ogling. The standard issue and Euro-only Scirocco has been modified with more turbo pressure pushing output to 325 HP, while the chassis has been widened and lowered, aero bits added, full roll cage and gutted interior with a rally style shifter falling close at hand. We think it looks rather smashing in its blue and white livery and kinda wish the normal Scirocco had more of these styling elements. Of course, every car wold look better if there was a "Race Car" box on the options list. Look for the Scirocco GT24 to run at the 24 hours of Nürburgring in June and details about the car below.

World premiere of the Scirocco GT24 with 325 PS
Wolfsburg, 22 May 2008 - Volkswagen will present the world premiere of a 239 kW (325 PS) version of the new Scirocco today at the legendary GTI Meet at Woerther Lake. For two days later, a team of legendary drivers will start the 24-hour race at the Nürburgring in the sports version of the Scirocco. Thus, the new Scirocco will be in the spotlight at two cult events for car enthusiasts at the same time.

Volkswagen is presenting the racing version of the Scirocco GT24 at Woerther Lake in a world premiere. "This car doesn't need to be driven to look fast. The Scirocco GT24 with the blue-white finish sits so low on its extended wheel wells that a hand will not fit between the wheel arch and the tyre. Yet the race car remains unmistakeably a Scirocco from every angle. Just even wider, even longer and even lower," says Volkswagen Chairman for Development Dr Ulrich Hackenberg, who will not be passing up the opportunity to sit behind the wheel in the race in the Eiffel. The 325 PS Scirocco will also be driven during the race by legendary drivers like rally world champion Carlos Sainz and Hans-Joachim Stuck, three-time winner of the 24-hour Nuerburgring race. Incidentally, "Striezel" Stuck won the very first 24-hour race at the Nuerburgring in 1970. Now, thirty-eight years later, the Scirocco GT24 is competing. It draws its power from only two litres displacement: the 16-valve direct injection engine with a turbocharger and intercooler delivers its maximum torque of 340 Newton metres beginning from only 2,100 rpm. Gear changes are executed by a dual clutch gearbox (DSG), which is also available for the production model.

The idea of an affordable dream car was born in the 70s with the first Scirocco. The success of this two-seat sport coupe continued for nearly 20 years, during which time more than 360,000 Sciroccos were built. The enthusiasm for this car has been uninterrupted since Volkswagen presented the new version of the Scirocco at this year's Geneva Motor Show. The new car appears to have struck a chord with car buyers and will pick up with the success of the original Scirocco which, in the mean time, has developed into a cult car.

[Motive]

2009 Cadillac CTS-V Lapping The Nurburgring In Record Time

Mark Arnold — Thu, 15 May 2008 13:20:00 EDT

With an LS9 supercharged V8 said to make 567 HP, we know that the Cadillac CTS-V is one swift sedan. But we had no idea just how fast it would be until it recently set a lap time of 7:59.32 on the Nurburgring Nordschleife. That time makes it the fastest production sedan ever officially recorded on the German benchmark race track. Now, just in case you thought GM was just pulling your leg, the General has released this video showing the world what's what. Click the jump to check it out.

[via CarScoop]

2010 Lotus Eagle Drives Around The Ring, Too Much Traffic In Gotham City

Matt Hardigree — Thu, 15 May 2008 11:20:00 EDT

We can't get enough of the 2010 Lotus Eagle and its Batman-esque camo. We showed you photos of the Lotus Eagle at the Nürburgring about a week ago, and now we have what we're thinking is the accompanying video of it driving in and around the ring. As we see more angles it looks like perhaps that's a rich black or dark blue color underneath all that tape. Also, round brake lights? On a Lotus? Crazy talk. [YouTube via PistonHeads]

2009 Cadillac CTS-V Fastest Production Sedan Around Nürburgring Ever, Laps in 7:59.32

Ben Wojdyla — Fri, 09 May 2008 17:20:00 EDT

Sweet baby Blue Devil, everyone knew the 2009 Cadillac CTS-V would be some powerful strong stuff, but it just managed to lap the Nürburgring in 7:59.32 — that makes it the fastest production sedan ever to take the Nordschleife! With a projected 567 HP, tightened suspension, magnetic ride control, fancy-pants electro-mechanical rear end and a bodacious six speed at the ready, John Heinricy, executive with GM Performance Division piloted The Sedan to it's sub-eight-minute bragging rights. With the Japanese and the Americans duking it out for Nordschleife glory, we can't help but wonder how the Germans feel about all this.

[Cadillac drivers Blog]

Mystery Lexus IS: Turbo? Hybrid?

Mark Arnold — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:20:00 EDT

Let the Nürburgring mysteries continue! Today's super secret car out testing on the 'ring is clearly a Lexus IS, but the intel from our spies at BridgeToGantry is limited at the moment. Under that camo, there's some sort of faded paint job inspired by a '70s custom van which leads us to believe the car may be displayed to the public sans cladding at some point. But what would it be showing off? Well, there appears to be some strange lump in the hood, but the front bumper looks to be from a standard IS rather than the fire-breathing Lexus IS-F. We're being speculative, but we wonder if this is some sort of V6 hybrid and/or turbocharged model. The exhaust note does sound like a relatively quiet V6 to our ears, but you should have a listen for yourself. Make the jump for a quick video of action on the track.

Mystery Lexus at the Nurburgring Nordschleife from MrBTG on Vimeo.
[BridgeToGantry]

Up Close Footage Of The Mystery Veritas

Mark Arnold — Wed, 07 May 2008 10:40:00 EDT

Remember the silver mystery roadster spotted at the Nürburgring? Well, the Nürburgring-obsessed guys at BridgeToGantry captured some upclose and personal footage of the slick little monoposto. While it's now clear that this is indeed a Veritas of some sort, we're still not sure exactly what the specs are or why it randomly appeared at the 'ring. Make the jump to check out the video.

Veritas testing at the Nurburgring from MrBTG on Vimeo.

Mystery Nürburgring Roadster Identified?

Mark Arnold — Mon, 05 May 2008 15:00:00 EDT

There's a lot of buzz nowadays about secret prototypes testing their on-track capabilities on Germany's famed Nürburgring. But while most cars are easily identifiable despite their heavy camouflage, this silver roadster is just sitting around undisguised, and we still aren't exactly sure what it is. This clear shot was captured just today by a fellow Jalop, Mike. It's the freshest clue yet to the mystery that was started not too long ago by these shots. Since then, there have been some claiming to have closed the case, but the surfacing of this new photograph is cause for a re-investigation.

While there's no eyewitness testimony, all the physical evidence points to one suspect: the Veritas RS3. A concept vehicle from 2001, the RS3 was Veritas' attempt to re-gain some of their early post-war BMW racing glory. Its 670 HP 6.0-liter BMW V12 was huge power for a car that weighed about 2100 pounds total. But don't get too caught up in those specs, because we're not too sure that's the exact same car as this mystery roadster. Yes, most of the basic visual elements of the car appear to be identical, but look at the differences. The headlights and the perforated hood are especially distinct, but who knows what other changes may lurk under the skin. So what is this thing? And what is it doing at the 'ring? Is it a one-off for a rich customer or a prototype readying for mass production? Well, keep your eyes peeled on the live web cam at the 'ring, and maybe we'll find some more clues. [Nurburgring.org.uk, MotorAuthority]
Hat Tip to Mike!

BMW Publishes Nürburgring Driving Guide

Ben Wojdyla — Thu, 01 May 2008 15:20:00 EDT

Maybe Tochio Suzuki doesn't need a guide to the Nürburgring to pilot a Nissan GT-R to a 7:29 lap around the Nordschleife, but we do. How convenient for us BMW decided to publish a handy-dandy corner-to-corner guide to the legendary track. Available as an inconvenient PDF file, the guide provides apexing tips, dangerous corners to watch for, gear selection recommendations and where to brake for greatest effect. Next time we find ourselves in Germany with something delightful and powerful at hand, now we'll be well equipped to turn in lightning fast times. [Bimmerfile]

Nissan GT-R Officially Dry-Laps Nürburgring In 7:29, Makes Us Wet

Ray Wert — Thu, 01 May 2008 08:00:00 EDT

The friendly Finnish Fans of Cars all over the World tell us today the new 2009 Nissan GT-R can now lay claim to being one of the fastest production cars in the world — in Nürburgring lap times. Nissan claims GT-R chief test driver Tochio Suzuki completed the famous German circuit in just 7 minutes and 29 seconds during runs on April 16th and 17th. According to their records, this puts the GT-R in second place for fastest laps by unmodified production cars — that's just behind the Pagani Zonda F's blistering 7 minutes and 27 seconds last November. Guess that wet lap time last year of 7 minutes and 38 seconds was just a test run, eh?

Kazutoshi Mizuno, the GT-R's Chief Vehicle Engineer said

"At last year's testing, we were frustrated by the conditions at the Nürburgring, always believing that the GT-R could go under seven minutes 30 seconds, the GT-R proves it is among the fastest mass-production cars in the world. We set out to build a multi-performance supercar accessible to anyone, anytime and anywhere - I believe the GT-R has delivered that promise."

Yeah well, we're beginning to think that car could make a hero out of even us. [via World Car Fans]

Volkswagen Builds 300 HP Scirocco For Nürburgring 24-Hour Race

Mark Arnold — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 15:20:00 EDT

A lot of people think VW's upcoming Scirocco could use a little more oomph under the hood. The stock engines are rated from 122 HP to 200 HP, but this new version has a 300 HP version of the 2.0-liter TFSI inline-four. That's because the car has been race-prepped specifically for next month's 24-hour endurance race at the Nürburgring.

Yep, this little fastback will be in the same race as the Gumpert Apollo Hybrid and the Lexus LF-A. Sadly, there are currently no plans for a version of the race car to hit the streets, but who knows. After all, the Aston Martin V8 Vantage N24 started life as a specially-built car for this same race just a couple years ago.
[CarScoop]

Gumpert Apollo Hybrid To Race At Nürburgring 24-Hour Race

Mark Arnold — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 17:00:00 EDT

The Gumpart Apollo is one mean machine with its twin-turbo 4.2-liter Audi V8. But for next month's 24-hour endurance race at the Nürburgring, Gumpert will be swapping out that powertrain for something a bit more green. Since fuel economy is a key factor in a long race, the Apollo racer will be fitted with hybrid running gear.

The new motor is a 3.3-liter V8 fitted with twin turbos. Combined with a 100kW electric motor, the car has 630 HP readily available. The juice for the electric motor is charged up by regenerative braking technology. We're not sure what Gumpert's plans are for any possible road version of this setup, but we bet even Al Gore would want one.
[World Car Fans]

Porsche 911 GT3 Rolls, Literally, Around Corner At The 'Ring

Matt Hardigree — Sat, 29 Mar 2008 23:47:31 EDT

Individuals like driving around the Nürburgring because of the challenge it presents. For instance, you might be coming around a corner with a bit too much speed, correct, then correct again and then end up tires-up waiting for the 100€ wrecker while a couple of smartass mates make quips about how much the different parts of your 911 GT3 will go for on eBay. In this case, the challenge is explaining to your insurance agency what happened. Maybe this unlikely driver can tell them he/she was trying to catch Sabine Schmidt. That's legit, right? [YouTube]

Turbo Rolls-Royce Races 'Round The 'Ring

Mark Arnold — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 13:40:00 EST

Who says a Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow can't be a trackday toy? Not the guys from the British rag that's all about Performance Cars that are Practical. They wanted a vehicle that could do a lap of the Nürburgring in under 10 minutes while comfortably seating five adults. Sure you could just get a new Audi or a BMW and call it a day, but they wanted something different, something with real style. So they picked up an old Rolls with a 6.75L V8 (and a 3-speed autobox), slapped a T4 turbo on, cranked up the boost, and headed for Germany. [Warning: Potentially NSFW Hilarious British Cussing In Video]

Of course, no rat rod Rolls would be complete without flat-black paint. And being a track car, the tires and suspension were upgraded as well. But overall this is still a proper Roller, fit for that certain head-of-state hoon who wants to have a bit of fun from the back seat.

[Practical Performance Car] [YouTube]

Aston Martin Opening Nürburgring Research Center

Wes Siler — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:15:00 EST

Aston Martin have begun construction on a new engineering center located adjacent to the historic Nürburgring track in Germany. The new facility will be used both to evaluate and enhance the performance of future models and to give customers the opportunity to drive their cars around the Green Hell. The Aston Martin Nürburgring Test Center will open at the end of May, becoming the second brand new facility to open in less than 12 months since the company purchased itself.

Loose-Lipped Lexus Lovers Claim LF-A Laps Nurburgring In Record Time

Matt Hardigree — Fri, 28 Dec 2007 16:00:00 EST

File this gossip under T for "Toyota REFUSES to be shown up by the Nissan GT-R." According to World Car Fans, Auto Express and Japanese car mag Holiday Auto are claiming that the new 552 horsepower Lexus LF-A has set a record lap around the Nurburgring at somewhere around 7 minutes and 24 seconds, which should top times set by the Pagani Zonda F and the Porsche 911 GT2 of 7:27 and 7:32/7:25, respectively. This is still all a rumor and has probably followed the same telephone tree that gave us the teacher's strike and purple monkey dishwasher. [World Car Fans]

Vauxhall Astra VXR Nürburgring Edition, Now With More Nürburgernress

Matt Hardigree — Tue, 18 Dec 2007 10:45:00 EST

All of those would-be Saturn Astra tuners could do worse than aping the Astra VXR Nürburgring Edition, which is the speedier trim level of the Vauxhall version of GM's global small car platform. Mechanically similar to the VXR, the hot hatch is good for 240 hp, enough to propel it to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds and an electronically limited top seed of 155 mph. Differentiating it from the standard VXR is the super white paint, carbon fibre effect mirrors, 18-inch alloys and checkered flag body graphics. Full press release below:

The car for when even an Astra VXR isn't VXR enough...

# Astra VXR Nürburgring Edition, on sale now
# Exclusive white paint, embossed seats and graphics
# Priced at £20,995 on-the-road

There are plenty of hot hatches on the market, but it's the Astra VXR that's the undisputed Ring leader...

And to prove it, Vauxhall has pulled the wraps off the Nürburgring edition, named after the car's spiritual home, where much of its pre-production development was carried out.

Based on the standard Astra VXR and priced at £20,995, each individually numbered Nürburgring edition will come with an exclusive all-white paint finish and lightweight white 18-inch alloy wheels, equipped with bespoke Dunlop tyres, are also specified. Other exterior features include dark tinted windows, carbon fibre effect mirrors and B-Pillars and distinctive chequered flag body graphics, to further emphasise the car's incredible performance.

Mechanically similar to the standard VXR, the Nürburgring Edition produces 240PS in factory tune, giving it the ability to accelerate from 0-60mph in 6.2 seconds and on to an electronically-limited top speed of 155mph. Each UK-specification car will also come provided with a Remus Sports Exhaust, developed with Vauxhall's BTCC race team, Triple-Eight Race Engineering.

Like the standard car, the Nürburgring Edition benefits from a six-speed manual gearbox and lowered, uprated VXR suspension with ESP as standard. Ventilated 321mm diameter disc brakes at the front and 278mm diameter discs at the back help slow things down, while blue-painted calipers remain a VXR trademark.

The Nürburgring Edition theme continues inside, with carbon fibre detailing on the door trims and fascia, leather trim with the Nürburgring circuit graphic embossed into the unique Recaro front seat backrests and an individually numbered plaque showing each car's build number.

In fact, the only thing it doesn't come with is one of those Nürburgring bootlid stickers you can buy when you do a lap of the circuit. Such a shame, as it means you'll have to drive it there and buy one yourself. [Source: GM]

Pagani Zonda F on the 'Ring, Cinematic Edition

Mike Spinelli — Mon, 05 Nov 2007 16:15:53 EST

While most driver-POV videos on the Nürburgring offer production values equal to a home movie of Howe Caverns, this HD clip of a 'ringward jaunt in a Zonda F is a cinematic wonder, nearly on par with the famed Ferrari Shell commercial. It even has a snappy follow-along map for you N-ring-turn geeks. (Raise your hands.) Start it and hit pause until it spools up a bit, to avoid annoying blips. (Thanks to Giuseppe for the tip.) [Supercarmovies]

Audi R8 V10 Back On The Ring Sporting Fire Suppression System

Ray Wert — Mon, 15 Oct 2007 12:45:00 EDT

The Audi R8 V10 conflagration from way back in April even made this week's episode of Top Gear. It would appear the little bit of "steam" hasn't stopped the German automaker from trying to take the up-engined R8 back out onto the Nuburgring as these shots taken by the WorldCar-Finns spies this weekend would seem to confirm. According to the Finnish fish-slappers, test drivers no longer have anything to fear from the flames:

With the prototype cost estimated at half million Euros, Audi's sport division, quattro GmbH, has now installed an electronic fire suppressant system as indicated by the white "E" (foam based extinguisher) sticker and two red buttons seen next to the driver's side rear view mirror. In case of a fire, the first reaction is for the driver to get out of the vehicle and if risk is minimal, the fire suppressant system can be activated from the outside of the vehicle by pressing the two red buttons.

[via WorldCarFans]

Mercedes C 63 AMG: DTM Pace Car

Mike Spinelli — Tue, 09 Oct 2007 11:45:49 EDT

It's not on the market yet, but it will be on the Hockenheimring next weekend. It's the Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG, which apparently will be the pace car for the German Touring Car Championships (DTM) finals. Spies recently caught this light-bar'd specimen near the Nürburgring. It had been fitted with straight pipes and thus was "painfully loud" to at least one observer. Note also the altered front bumper assembly with large air intakes and carbon fiber strips on the bottom splitter, all over gunmetal gray multispoke wheels and beefier brakes. Lets hope they don't let it anywhere near the Audis. [World Car Fans]

Mercedes SL AMG Black Series Spotted

Mike Spinelli — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 14:07:38 EDT

As we've said before, Mercedes in-house speed shop AMG adopted a multitiered approach to tuning. At the second tier from the top Signature series, the Black Series includes uprated and spec'd out versions of AMG models. We've already seen the CLK63 Black Series, which sports a 500-horsepower version of the AMG 6.2-liter V8 (dubbed 6.3 for historical purposes). Now, a prototype of what looks to be the SL-Class AMG Black Series model was recently spotted in preparation for Nürburgring runs this week. The Black Series cars are lightened by way of carbon fiber replacement panels and made nimbler by way of an adjustable suspension with modified spring links, wheel carriers, thrust arms and camber and torque struts. The CLK63 can get from zero to 60 in a blazing 4.1 seconds. Any guesses on this track-day monster? [Winding Road]

Free BMW Video Game Lets You Drive An M3 On A Virtual Nurburgring

Ray Wert — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 09:45:00 EDT

For a minor download (only 345 MB — that's less than half the size of your average torrented movie or episode of Top Gear), you too can experience the thrill of driving the BMW M3 'round the famed Nürburgring F1 circuit. That's right, why spend the money on a plane ticket and the rental fees associated with a real BMW M3 when you can do it for free on your computer from the comfort of your own home. Of course, we're assuming the arguments for why sex is better in real life rather than on line probably apply here too. (Hat tip to Greg!) [BMW via Top Gear]

2008 Subaru STI Spotted on the N-Ring

Mike Spinelli — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 18:00:58 EDT

Spotted on the Nürburgring ahead of its debut at the Tokyo auto show next month is the one, the ugly Subaru STI. Scoobnutz have been sweating this car for months, ever since they took one look at the latest Impreza line this past April and hit the Dramamine. But every car looks good with a wider stance, a goose-slurping hood scoop and low-profile blackies. Thus, though the new, 300+-hp STI is still only an awkwardly shaped ghost spotted from the roadside by those with long lenses, its reveal nonetheless be one of the major auto-enthusiast events of 2008. [Auto Gespot]

Opel Astra OPC Nürburgring Edition

Mike Spinelli — Tue, 28 Aug 2007 15:59:57 EDT

It's not Space Camp, it's race camp. It's OPC Race Camp, a racing talent casting call, for which Opel provides the cars. Its aim is to assemble a team that will participate in the 24-hour race on the Nürburgring in 2008. But first, there's a car to mention. It's the Astra OPC Nürburgring Edition, a limited-run model fitted with a wider track, fat meats and a 2.0-liter turbo gasoline engine that can propel it to 62 mph in 6.4 seconds and on to a top speed of 152 mph. Inside, there's a trim package of full leather trim, carbon-look fittings and a serial-numbered badge on the glove box. The Nürburgring Edition is the training car for ~~Space Camp~~ the race camp, now in its fourth round. Tom Skerritt, call the front desk.

Press Release:

Opel Presents Astra OPC Nürburgring Edition

* Limited special edition model with high-performance package
* Fourth phase of racing driver casting launched

Rüsselsheim. At the start of the fourth round of the OPC Race Camp, Opel unveils the Astra OPC "Nürburgring Edition", a limited special edition version of the successful three-door model. The "Nürburgring Edition" emphasizes the connection between the racetrack steeped in tradition and the Opel brand. The Nürburgring, and in particular the legendary Nordschleife, are rightfully known as Opel territory, as this is where Opel production cars are extensively tested during their development stage. Manuel Reuter first highlighted the OPC models' performance power in 2005, when he set a circuit record with the Astra OPC in this vehicle class. With the special Astra OPC "Nürburgring Edition", Opel now raises the connection to the Nordschleife to a new level.

The "Nürburgring Edition" is particularly eye-catching thanks to the sporty white lacquer, large rear spoiler, as well as exterior mirrors and B-pillars in carbon look. The racing circuit's red signet also adorns the B-pillars. The second-generation IDSPlus2 chassis is familiar from the Vectra and Zafira OPC models and ensures even greater driving dynamics in the Astra OPC "Nürburgring Edition". Weight optimized white rims, a two-millimeter wider track and ultra high performance tires complete the high-performance package. The interior features special full leather trim, carbon-look décor and a badge on the glove compartment with engraved serial number. An image of the race track is also engraved in the head rests. The special edition's 177 kW/240 hp 2.0-liter turbo gasoline engine takes it from zero to 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds and to a top speed of 244 km/h. The front-wheel drive model comes with a sportily tuned six-speed manual transmission.

"The special edition model is a tribute to the Nürburgring and our customers, who have made the Astra OPC the best-selling OPC model of the current generation," says Alain Visser, Executive Director Sales, Marketing and Aftersales, Adam Opel GmbH. The special edition Astra OPC "Nürburgring Edition" goes on sale in the first quarter of 2008.

OPC Race Camp makes racing dream come true

The fourth level of the OPC Race Camp that starts today on the Nordschleife is the perfect stage for presenting the Astra OPC "Nürburgring Edition". Opel breaks new ground with the OPC Race Camp - a professional talent casting that helps ordinary drivers discover and develop their motor racing skills. 500 candidates were chosen from the almost 18,500 applicants in the first round, which took place in April. Since then, further selection has taken place and today, 20 racing talents go into the fourth round hoping to capture one of the coveted eight positions in the race team that will participate in the legendary 24-hour race on the Nürburgring in 2008.

With its sporty OPC model range (Opel Performance Center) and OPC Race Camp, Opel now opens up a new range of possibilities in its traditional domain of popular motorsport. Candidates must have the talent and determination to achieve their dream of race car driving, while Opel provides them with the cars, the professional training and the necessary organizational support. After all, the dream of being a racing driver often dissipates because of the high investments that are required. Alain Visser sees the OPC Race Camp as a motorsport venture with good prospects for the future: "With the OPC Race Camp, Opel opens a completely new dimension in motorsport. The Race Camp addresses friends of motorsport that would otherwise experience car racing from the sidelines at best. It is an ideal project for Opel's participation in popular motorsport because we can get our fans even more directly involved."

The concept includes several new ideas. Firstly, it is aimed at drivers looking for a special challenge, regardless of their age, sex or current brand of car. The only condition is that they may not have any previous experience in motorsport. After all, the key question is: "Is it possible to professionally train performance-oriented drivers for a 24-hour race, and perhaps even guide them toward their dream job of being a racing driver?"

Opel racing driver star wanted

Another new idea is the focus on people and excitement at the OPC Race Camp. The fortune of the candidates at the various casting levels captivates both the media and outside observers, as do the demands of the thrilling selection processes and training stages. As a result, the OPC Race Camp has strong media partners in print and television, who accompany the entire project with regular and extensive coverage.

The Race Camp candidates use several 177 kW/240 hp Astra OPCs as training vehicles, and two racing versions of the compact sports car are ready for later competitive races. In addition, Opel has a long tradition associated with the Nürburgring. A few months after setting this record with the Astra OPC in 2005, Opel reproduced this feat with the Zafira OPC as one of the world's fastest series production vans. Opel plans further record drives with its OPC models.

Because of the positive response to the OPC Race Camp - with almost 18,500 inquiries from German-speaking European countries - Opel is considering expanding the Race Camp concept to other European countries.

It's 1967 Okay?

Davey G. Johnson — Wed, 08 Aug 2007 18:45:00 EDT

We were watching some random, modern F1 footage last night and started wondering if we were just idiots for not being into it. Then we ran across this segment on the GP at the Nürburgring back in '67 and realized that no, we weren't. This, friends, is damn-wonderful hairy-chested F1 awesomeness at its finest. Plus, it's got Gurney totally freaking dominating until his driveshaft goes and Ickx face-stomping Formula One guys in a Formula Two car. The genie of death may lie there, but damn if the 'Ring + 1960s F1 vehicles doesn't send shivers of the best kind. Flugplatz, anyone?

Let's Go to the Videotape: Audi RS6 On the 'Ring

Mike Spinelli — Fri, 15 Jun 2007 16:18:20 EDT

Those lovable scamps over at Fast Lane Daily plugged some spy footage of the upcoming Audi RS6 into their midday newscast. Gathered by Automedia at Germany's Nürburgring, the clip shows Audi's answer to the Mercedes E63 AMG and BMW M5 in effect, its larger air intakes, the wider fender flares and rear diffuser giving away the goods. It's reportedly powered by the same V10 as the S6, but turbocharged to produce between 520 and 550 hp. We'll see the finished product at the Frankfurt show — which is shaping up to be a killer — later this year. Whether or not it causes the death of the RS4 remains to be seen. – Mike Spinelli

Mazdaspeed3 Flies Round the 'Ring

Jonny Lieberman — Thu, 14 Jun 2007 11:15:00 EDT

Imagine taking your Ducati über-bike over to the Nürburgring only to have its heels nipped on by a relatively inexpensive front-wheel-drive Japanese hatchback. A front-wheel-drive Japanese hatchback that is, with a turbocharged 2.3-liter DISI MZR engine that spits out 263 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. The Mazda cracks off a 'Ring time of 8 minutes and 39 seconds, which is identical to a Honda S2000 and about where the NSX and Corvette were a decade ago. Also, we really hope this settles once and for all the debate about what can get around corners faster, cars or bikes. And finally, the Mazdaspeed3 is call the Mazda3 MPS over in dirty old cheese-eating Europe. – Jonny Lieberman

Spy Photos: Abarth 500 Wrung Out On the 'Ring

Davey G. Johnson — Tue, 22 May 2007 17:00:00 EDT

Glory, glory be. Well, glory to those in the places that Fiats are sold, at least. While the new Fiat 500 (and its platform-mate) the Ford Ka may not make it to these shores, nothing can prevent our lust from afar. Of course, the hot Abarth version of the nuevo Cinquecento is the one to get, and as such, the mad hatters of Torino have been making last-minute evaluations of the hot micro-hatch in none other than the Green Hell. The blokes at Car have the spy shots. We have the hots. – Davey G. Johnson

CAR Online scoops the new Fiat 500 Abarth [Car]

Related:
Sketches Emerge of New Fiat 500 [Internal]

Heidfeld Runs Sauber BMW F1 Around Nrburgring

Mike Bumbeck — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 11:45:00 EDT

For the first time in over three decades a Formula One car has lapped the N rburgring circuit. Driver Nick Heidfeld pummled the BMW Sauber F1 car around the legendary course, managing 170 mph through the D ttinger H he straightaway. Heidfeld said he really wanted to empty the tank, but cautious owners, hard tires, and official slowdowns for photographers prevented any eleven tenths driving. Team Manager Beat Zehnder was in the same helicopter that shot this video to assure proper Green Hell behavior via radio contact. – Mike Bumbeck

Spy Photos: More of the 2008 Nissan GT-R on the 'Ring

Mike Spinelli — Wed, 25 Apr 2007 12:32:42 EDT

The result of Nissan GT-R's latest testing session out on Germany's N rburgring is even more media of the slightly-obscured coupe. The car's being shook down, flogged and otherwise worked over on the way to its unveiling and high-profile launch at the Tokyo show later this year. It was caught on the 'Ring's webcam as well as by bridge-view video. That's where we get to see a GT-R dusting a BMW M5 into a right hander. That's promising. – Mike Spinelli

[see more at VW Vortex / Autoblog]

Related:
Spy Video: 2008 Nissan GT-R on the 'Ring [internal]

Spy Photos: More on the Aston Martin DBS

Mike Spinelli — Mon, 16 Apr 2007 14:15:05 EDT

Look who's rounding the 'Ring this week. Its the Aston Martin DBS — that new flagship already spotted during Teutonic testing this month. This set of images comes straight from the N rburgring branch of the automotive MI6, who've long-lensed a DBS test car wearing only the slightest of disguises and some super-low-profile meats. As mentioned before, the DBS will reportedly get a 530-hp version of the 6.0-liter V12, a considerable body kit, a 186 mph top speed, and a go at Moneypenny. Minus that last one, of course. – Mike Spinelli

Hot Aston DB9 breaks cover [AutoExpress]

Related:
Spy Photos: Aston Martin DBS [internal]

Carrera GT Cracked Up on the 'Ring

Davey G. Johnson — Fri, 13 Apr 2007 20:15:00 EDT

Des of GTSpirit was out for a leisurely drive on the N rburgring earlier today with a friend in a Gallardo when they came 'round a bend and noticed this Porsche Carrera GT off the track. While the bodywork emerged largely unscathed, note the rather excessive negative camber of the supercar's rear wheels. Touch it, feel it, Green Hell! – Davey G. Johnson

Another Carrera GT Bites the Dust [GTSpirit]

POV Madness: Stuck on the 'RIng

Mike Spinelli — Thu, 12 Apr 2007 07:42:56 EDT

It hit me yesterday that we haven't had a really good driver-POV clip from the N rburgring in too long. Then up pops this bit that showcases the skill of German racing veteran Hans-Joachim Stuck piloting the BMW M3 GTR he's raced for BMW since 2000. If you're planning a trip to drive the Green Hell, or just looking to tune your mad gaming skillz, commit every one of Stuck's race lines to memory. NSFW! [Thanks to Marcus for the tip.] – Mike Spinelli

Related:
Hoo Ha! Porsche 996 GT2 Slays the Nurburgring [internal]

Things Audi Lost in the Fire: The R8 Prototype, Pre-Burn!

Mike Spinelli — Wed, 11 Apr 2007 10:45:31 EDT

We're sure if Audi had Superman on its side, they'd get the man of steel to unspin the globe a few revolutions, back before the company's million-dollar R8 prototype went supernova on the N rburgring. Well, they can't. But through the miracle of spy video, we can see what led up to the prototype's burndown. Not right up to it, but nearly. – Mike Spinelli

[via World Car Fans blog]