MCLAREN’S High-Performance of a True Super-Car

The Incredible MP4-12C Super-Car

This might not be one the World’s fastest production-car title like its predecessor, the Legendary F1, but McLaren hopes it will set a new standard in overall performance and handling as well as safety, economy and practicality in the super-car market.

One of the core technologies of the MP4-12C is the carbon monocell structure the use of carbon-composite in 1981 MP4/1 and for the road in the aforementioned F1 super-car. The advantages of this carbon composite in the build process include its low mass combined with high strength, and torsional rigidity and longevity as mentioned in the brochure. The MP4-12C is powered by a 3,8litre V8 twin-turbo engine that sends torque to the rear wheels through a seven-speed Seamless Shift dual-clutch gearbox (SSG). The driven-train, produced exclusively for the MP4-12C, it has been selected not only for power and performance, but also for class-leading fuel economy and CO2 emissions supported by McLaren’s experience of active aerodynamics to aid cooling, grip, and road holding.          

The Mp4-12C’s competitors like the Mercedes-Bens SLS AMG which kicks out a maximum of 420Kw and maximum torque of 450Nm, from 0-110km/h from standstill reaches in 3.8 seconds a truly naturally aspirated V8 engine. The Lexus LFA V10 which kicks out 412Kw and a maximum

torque of 480Nm 0-100km/h from standstill it reaches at 3.7 seconds.

MCLAREN MP4-12C TECHNICAL DETAILS
Engine:	Twin-turbo, 32-valve 3.8-litre V8
Redline:	8 500 r/min
Max Power:	441Kw @ 7000 r/min
Max Torque:	600Nm @ 3000-7000 r/min
Transmission:	7-speed SSG dual-clutch with Pre-Cog
Body:	Carbon-fibre Monocell with aluminium front and rear frames
Weight:	1 336kg
Tyres:	Pirelli PZero (235/35 R19 in front, 305/30 R20 rear)
Fuel consumption (combined):	11.7 litres/100km
CO2 emissions:	279 g/km
0-100 km/h 0-200 km/h	3.3 seconds 9.1 seconds

By: Bruce Mbingeleli

Lord of the Rings on a Roll with Audi

Dynamic Audi R8 GT is much lighter with greater performance

 

By: Bruce Mbingeleli

Introducing the most potent of the Audi R8 family, the Audi R8 GT Coupe. One of the best sports-car the manufactures of Audi have ever developed and will be available in South Africa in the first quarter of the year. The 412Kw/540Nm petrol FSI Quattro R tronic engine is available in two-door Coupe derivative only, which is the only best coupe with an incredible aerodynamic carbon fibre exterior which is 100kg lighter,  with more traction, balanced than the R8 Spyder, R8 Coupe 5.2-liter FSI.

Performance for the GT FSI has a serious tinkering torque beneath the bonnet which sprints from 0-100 km per hour in mere 3.6 seconds, from 0-200km per hour in 10, 8 seconds with a dashy top speed of 320km per hour.  An unmistakable character; every detail throughout the exterior of Audi R8 GT is emphatically inspired by motor sport, with an average fuel consumption of 13.9-liters per 100km according to Audi brochure.

SPIRIT OF DEVELOPEDMENT WHERE IT MATTERS!!!





SPORT ON: The beautiful and so furious Auris TRD



  The Toyota Racing Development line-up, has     introduced a new duchess member the Auris TRD performance in its blood to ooze pleasure. If you are in need for a very TRD is the right companion for you as cruise through the hot hatch this summer than look no further? The Auris urban areas and suburbs; it has this serious street cred which stands out to its competitors.

This is of the sportiest member in the Auris range, Auris TRD 1.6-litre supercharged four-cylinder hits out 132Kw of power at 6400rpm with rated maximum output of 203 Nm of torque at 5200rpm up by 36Kw compared with the SportX, with add power in the front wheels via six speed manual gearbox, equipped with a supercharger kit, sporty suspension but comes standard giving it the sportiest stature in the Toyota Family as given in the Toyota brochure.   It’s quite a powerful car in its class, the exterior of this car shouts out stamina – earning it TRD badge. Front, rear and side skirts are striking alloys and front fog lamps are just a few of its awesome styling features. Sportiness has not neglected the convenience, comfort of the Auris, it comes standard with radio/CD/MP3 player, the oooh so generous sound of  6 speakers that comes with audio, Bluetooth and Multi-Information Display steering wheel switches, an audio input with USB and iPod ports, electrically- adjustable windows and remote control central locking as specified in the brochure.  Power comes with responsibility; Auris TRD has driver and passenger front and side airbags, the driver’s knee airbags as well as curtain airbags. ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake force Distribution) and BAS (Brake Assist System) comes standard in the TRD.

·         The Auris TRD vehicle is fitted with variety of accessories, some of which are under development in the Toyota Racing Development. The final production version of this model may differ from the model shown as mentioned in the brochure.    

By: Bruce Mbingeleli

LexusFPerformanceLFA hits our shores

 PERFORMANCE: The LFA is safe, fast and elegant

Some drive the cars they drive because of the speed, there are those who buy them of comfort and others it’s style, power that matters. This is one of the moments in my life when I had the opportunity to review the so divine Lexus LFA; the car manufactures have really out done themselves this year. Its focus was more on the LFA, than the IS-F V8 sedan which gave a cutting edge of high performance, conventional wisdom of offering powerful alternatives that achieve optimal fuel economy and low emission on the sport car. Equipped with a naturally aspirated 40-valveDOHC4.8 litre V10 engine which kicks out an assembled 412Kw delivers at 8700rpm, its maximum torque output at 480Nm arrives at 6800rpm, ninety percent of which is available from 3700rpm according to the Lexus brochure, considering the LFA’s excellence on the focus on technology sophistication, advance safety edge engineering a performance line was a natural progression for Lexus and it really does live up to its slogan. Providing enlightened elegance experiences Lexus’ line-up performance cars which will surprise and enthral you as an eager petrol head lover. The car has a six-speed automatic Sequential gearbox with a rear-wheel drive that is capable of hitting 0-100km/h from standstill in 3.7 seconds with a top speed of 325km/h which governed, with a truly beautiful carbon fibre body construction that gives it an aggressive look on the front especially at the rear ends giving the its competitors (BMW F10 M5 and CLS 63 AMG Coupe, Porche997 GT3 RS, Nissan GTR facelift) a run for its performance, luxury refinement and intelligent technology range. In effect this holds this LFA quite far back from all its competitors from 0-100km from standstill they have a rating of 3.8 seconds, the LFA is just one second faster. The LFA comes in two exotic sports body models, the two – door coupe and two- door roadster. The new LFA has made it possible in fitting HDD satellite navigation system with a Mark Levison Digital Surround Sound System and Dual Automatic Climate control making it easier and convenient for the driver. Lexus has made it possible for loading features to make driving more enjoyable in high-performance and safety: a Carbon Ceramic Material (CCM) brake discs for easy braking when stopping at high speeds.The LFA body features sharp edges and cut-offs for improved aerodynamic performance, made possible by the carbon fibre body. The body was designed with an emphasis on down force. There are air scoops located over the rear fenders which feed the aft-mounted radiators and help cool the brakes. A horizontal hood gap also feeds air to the engine. Two small aft vents expel air that is collected by an under body air scoop and used to cool the titanium exhaust pipes. Dual hood ducts serve to move hot air away from the exhaust manifold. It’s a shame that Lexus has produced only 500 of these models, for all you motor-heads out there eager in getting this LFA these vehicles, Lexus hasn’t released the official pricing for the South African market just yet, but we can expect a slight heavy load out our pockets are at a base price of US$375,000 an estimate of R2 995 303.36 million its really expensive but for a collector’s items why not.

By: Bruce Mbingeleli

Painting a real touch image to Quattro...

By: Bruce Mbingeleli

                                                                          

The development of the Audi Q7 was established in September 2005 at the Frankfurt Motor Show, it’s known as Internationale Automobil – Ausstelling (IAA – International Automobile Exhibition) one of the world’s largest motoring shows held in Frankfurt, Germany. The production began in autumn of 2005 in Bratislava, Slovakia one of the first SUV Audi had to offer in the motoring Industry. Later, Audi’s second SUV the Q5, was unveiled as a 2009 model. YOOH, cutting to the deal then followed in 2010/11 was the third SUV the Q3, this has become one of the interesting manufactures in the world if I add, well I’m not going to go-on-and-on about the Q5 & Q3 just pointing out a few information about the word of the moment the “Q”.

In starting I would say that the Q7 is of the most intriguing SUV’s I’ve seen in my times. Audi succeeds in astonishing the world and demonstrating what Vorsrung Durch Techink means. The Q7 takes the successful quattro drive idea forward to a new dimension, with a sporty look and powerful engines it’s showing off original roots: driving enjoyment, power and dynamism. It’s sporty, powerful appearance attracts your attention. Audi Q7’s designers have translated the classic, angular two-box design of former SUV generation into an independent fluent stylistic language. The dynamic roof line and high shoulder section borrow the sporty form of aCoupé. The powerful front with distinguishing single-frame radiator grille exudes self-confidence and dominance. The strong V-shaped pointed bonnet and its drawn-back headlights, even when at a standstill the Audi Q7 is always striving to push forward like an athlete on the starting blocks. The concise sills and high ground clearance emphasize its strong driving side. The performance of the Q7 SUV was taken from the creator of Quattro; it is of course the very motorization that sets itself a benchmark with this claim. Both petrol and diesel units in the Audi q7 combine sportiness and off-road capability in a very special way. They call upon their enormous potential right up to high speeds, at the same time provide a high torque, even at low speeds. Thanks to the motor racing-tested FSI and high torque TDI technology, Audi Q7 deplays its tremendous power and dynamism over practically the entire speed range.In terms of safety Audi has experience of rally and motor racing team they have always continuously developed the safety technology of their vehicles. With active number of safety systems, the Q7 is well equipped to ensure good traction and grip. Electronic Stabilisation Programme (ESP) the intelligent system links the active safety system such as ABS, ASR, EDL, EBD have two definite goals: track stability for the Q7 and control for you. If wheels threaten to spin away when accelerating, the traction control ASR ensures that power is transferred, as equally as possible. The Electronic Differential Lock (EDL), increases traction on loose or smooth ground. As soon as one of the driving wheels spins away, EDL specifically brakes and guides the power to the other wheel of the respective driving axle. With roll-over stabilisation and trailer stabilisation (only in conjunction with optional trailer towing device) the Q7 provides you with two additional safety systems. Electronic stabilisation Programme (ESP), also takes cares of the braking process, with its numerous functions this system assists in large-dimensioned braking system. Its drying functions removes water from the brake discs if roads are wet which considerably improves the braking effect. During full braking process, the reliable Anti-Lock Braking (ABS) then provides control for an increase in tractability. Aerodynamics of Audi Q7 on the other hand reduces thermal load on brake channels under a vehicles divert air flow past brakes discs, ensures cooling.

Its Rev-happy V8 FSI with 257Kw and 440Nm @ 3,500 r/min demonstrates its sporty side on the road and powerful side off-road. The 4.2L engine of the Audi Q7 accelerates from 0-100 km/h in just under 7.4 seconds. Impressive on slower journeys away from paved roads, even at 2,000 r/min you have 85% of its total torque at your disposal. This reason for this prompt power development its: FSI injection method and 4-valve technology of the powerful light weight engine. Two inlet valves and two outlet valves in each of the eight cylinders assists in providing a good supply and removal of air at any speed. The more torque, the more power and less comsumptiona the same time. Motorisation of Audi Q7 does not just make it impressive because of its performance potential, but also because of its sporty sound.

Pricing is from R700 000, 00

G-POWER M6 Hurricane CS Claimed to be World Fastest BMW Coupe

Top Speed of 370 km/h

German BMW tuners G Power claim to have built the fastest BMW Coupe ever created.  The company says the G-Power M6 Hurricane CS has a top speed of over 370 km/h.

Unfortunately, the outfit did not reveal where or when they measured this achievement.  Nor did they mention the M6 Hurricane's exact top speed.  We can only hope this information will come out soon.

What we do know, is that this car certainly has the power credentials to achieve what G-Power says it can achieve.  It uses the same twin-supercharged V10 SK III RS found on their M5 Hurricane CS.  That car used the 750 hp (559Kw) engine to claim World's Fastest Sedan last year, marking a top speed of 367.6 km/h.  The M6 should be able to top that, as it features a more aerodynamic body than the sedan.

Air is cooled down by a water-to-air cast-aluminum intercooler, and pushed into two ASA T1-316 belt-driven superchargers.  The company claims no typical supercharger lag with these units, saying that throttle response is immediate, as is the increase in torque.  Peak torque output is 800 Nm at about 5,000 rpm.  Weight was cut down everywhere, with upgrades made to the exhaust, the seats, and suspension.  A new carbon fibre wide-body kit, with new front apron, vented bonnet, rockers, wheel arches, diffuser, rear apron, and rear wing, keeps the car on the ground.  Connecting the car to the road are Micheline Pilot Sport PS2 tires, wrapped around 19-inch custom light-alloys.  Carbon-ceramic brakes, and six-piston calipers, provides extreme deceleration.

The tire and wheel change was necessary for the speed tests.  G-Power says the 21-inch Silverstone Diamond wheels, and the normal tires used, would not survive beyond 340 km/h.

To make their point as emphatic as possible, the G-Power M6 Hurricane CS has a speedometer that reaches up to 400 km/h.  Pricing on the car starts at €360,000 (R3.62122789 million)

 

INTERNET1 ASSIGNMENT2 210260889 B.A MBINGELELI

Gory Picture of 'dead'baby Dumped in Bin…

                                               

The dispatch of this picture shows a premature baby declared dead by doctors was found in the bin hours later. This is perhaps the most exclusive picture in the history of criminology. It shows the actual scene of the babies body stiffened in a Bin, which was not “Humanitarian” how can someone do such a thing to a very innocent infant which has done no harm to anyone. In publishing this story it was really not being ethnical for a journalist/publisher of not thinking how sensitive this picture is because younger kids read newspapers and the most shocking news-picture ever produced by Dispatch journalism, which people would say it was an unprofessional approach of them to do such a story. The “shocking” aspect presumably had to do with putting a baby in a Bin and viewing it on the front page, but not for its cut-and-paste technique as expected this is an exploitation of baby’s sies. Material like this should be published in the third, fourth or middle page of the newspaper without a picture.

http://topsy.com/twitpic.com/67e2zj

2012 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe Black Series Unveiled

Posted: Jul 23, 2011

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the much anticipated Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe Black Series, which is making its debut today and tomorrow at the Formula 1 race on the Nurburgring. The most powerful C-Class ever produced gets the Black Series treatment with insane amounts of power, a track-focued chassis and aggressive sporty styling.

Power for the new 2012 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe Black Series comes from a 6.3 liter naturally aspirated V8 engine making 517-hp at 6,800 rpm with a maximum torque of 457 lb-ft at 500 rpm. The engine gets forged pistons, conrods and crankshaft, a new engine control unit and a 50 percent bigger oil cooler. It is mated to an AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission with four ESP control settings and can go throw the cogs in 100 milliseconds in the sportiest Sport Plus and Manual modes. The run from 0 to 60 mph comes in just 4.2 seconds.

“AMG has its roots in international motorsport,” said Ola Kallenius, the CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH. “The new C 63 AMG Coupe Black Series is the best proof there is for the permanent transfer of technology from the race track to the road. The numerous successes in the DTM, the customer sports range featuring the SLS AMG GT3 and our commitment to Formula 1, where we have been providing the Official F1 Safety Car and the Official F1 Medical Car for the past 15 years, continuously spur on our engineers and technicians. The C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series embodies the new AMG brand claim, Driving Performance, like no other AMG model.”

Mercedes-Benz added a limited slip differential to the rear axle to improve the traction of the C63 AMG and added a stiffer anti-roll bars while upgraded the suspension with numerous setting options. Stopping power comes from giant 390mm front discs with 6-piston calipers, and 360mm discs at the rear with 4-piston calipers.

On the inside, two seats are standard but buyers can get an optional rear-bench with individual seats. While the new Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe Black Series is aggressive looking as is with wider tracks, it will be the Black Series model to get an optional Track Package and an AMG Aerodynamic Package.

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe Black Series will go on sale in January 2012 with prices starting at 115,430 euros ($165,716 USD). Mercedes-Benz says that the U.S. market launch will follow in early 2012 with prices to be announced closer to launch date.

Follow the break for the high-res image gallery and the press release.

2012 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe Black Series:

   

Press Release:

The new Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series: The most powerful C-Class of all time

Affalterbach – Spectacular design, technology transfer from the world of motorsport and driving dynamics at the highest level; the new Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series embodies the new AMG brand claim, Driving Performance, like no other AMG model. The new high-performance vehicle is the most powerful C-Class of all time, boasting a maximum output of 380 kW (517 hp) and a maximum torque of 620 newton metres. The AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine impresses with its hefty torque, tremendous pulling power and responsiveness, and ensures high-calibre performance: the C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 4.2 seconds (all data provisional). Exclusive fun at the wheel comes courtesy of the adjustable AMG coil-over sports suspension, the AMG high-performance compound braking system and the functional standard equipment. The AMG Track Package is available as an option to enhance driving dynamics even further. It boasts sports tyres and active rear-axle transmission cooling, plus the AMG Aerodynamics package including flics, a functionally tuned front splitter and an adjustable carbon-fibre rear aerofoil.

Broad, low, brawny and ready to pounce from a standstill – the C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series makes a mighty impression. It’s clear right from the first time you set eyes on it that the C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series is made for ambitious laps on a closed-off race track. In visual terms the new high-performance vehicle is reminiscent of the SLS AMG GT3 customer sports car and symbolises the transfer of technology from the sphere of motorsport, which has been part of the corporate philosophy of Mercedes-AMG GmbH for 44 years now.

With its new C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series, AMG is presenting an exciting sports car for enthusiasts who are passionate about sports cars which are big on horsepower, and this marks the impressive continuation of the Black Series strategy, which began back in 2006. AMG, the performance brand of Mercedes-Benz Cars, is once again demonstrating its expertise when it comes to designing and developing emotionally appealing high-performance cars.

Key data at a glance:

	C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series
Displacement	6208 cc
Bore x stroke	102.2 x 94.6 mm
Compression ratio	11.3 : 1
Output	380 kW (517 hp) at 6800 rpm at 6800/min
Max. torque	620 Nm at 500 rpm
Engine weight (dry)	196 kg
Fuel consumption, NEDC combined	12.2 l/100 km*
CO2 emissions	286 g/km*
Acceleration 0-100 km/h	4.2 s*

Arrow-shaped front section with large cooling air openings

It doesn’t matter from which angle you’re looking at it: the new C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series displays its ties with motorsport from every perspective. The arrow-shaped front section with the central Mercedes star in the radiator grille is the visual synonym for its unfettered forwards thrust. The air intakes in the striking front apron ensure reliable air flow through the large cooling modules. Two openings in the aluminium bonnet support the expelling of engine heat, whilst the struts positioned at an angle in the front apron emphasise the vehicle’s width. The black front splitter located at the lower end helps to balance the vehicle aerodynamically.

The expressive design continues in the side view: the newly developed front axle with a greater track width calls for new wings, which have been widened by 28 millimetres on each side. “6.3” logos give a nod to the sheer power of the large-displacement eight-cylinder high-speed naturally aspirated engine beneath the bonnet. Air outlets intimated behind the wheel cut-outs call to mind powerful racing cars. The onlooker discovers a black strip on the restyled AMG side skirts – a look which continues the idea of the front splitter. On each side the rear wings have also been widened by 42 millimetres, due to the greater track width of the rear axle. Air openings are hinted at in front of the rear wheels, forming a fitting conclusion.

AMG light-alloy wheels featuring light forging technology

255/35 R 19 and 285/30 R 19 – these are the impressive wheel formats for the C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series at its market launch. The wheel/tyre combination is mounted on 9 x 19 (front) and 9.5 x 19 (rear) AMG light-alloy wheels, fills out the wings to stunning effect and plays a significant part in the dynamic appearance of this new AMG sports car.

Painted titanium grey, the high-sheen light-alloy wheels are produced using particularly light forging technology – as is the case on the SLS AMG. These forged wheels weigh a total of eleven kilograms less than comparable wheels with a conventional design. The lower weight results in reduced unsprung masses, which improves both the suspension’s response and the steering precision.

Broad effect of the tail end with a diffuser insert

The tail end of the Black Series coupé is also a feast for the eyes: the new rear apron with its expressive black diffuser insert creates a broad effect. Just like on the SLS AMG GT3, it protrudes beyond the profile of the rear apron. The black grille on the upper end of the diffuser insert is an eye-catching feature, as is the AMG sports exhaust system: both of the chromed twin tailpipes integrated into the rear apron have an angular cross-section. The spoiler lip on the boot lid is painted in the vehicle colour and reduces lift at the rear axle, resulting in more driving stability at high speeds. The AMG logo with its discreet “Black Series” lettering is reserved exclusively for the C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series.

Engine with high-tech components from the gull-wing model

A displacement of 6.3 litres, a maximum output of 380 kW (517 hp) and a torque of 620 newton metres from eight cylinders – one glance at the technical data and it’s clear that the engineering behind the C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series is every bit the equal of its sensational appearance. The high-torque M156 naturally aspirated engine was specially refined for the new two-door model, whose forged pistons, connecting rods and the crankshaft with a lightweight design, for example, all come courtesy of the SLS AMG. These measures are flanked by a new engine control unit. As the car’s performance proves, the uprated V8 engine has an easy time of it in the coupé: the sprint from standing to 100 is over in 4.2* seconds (* preliminary data).

Plenty of pulling power, an agile response and hefty torque – the qualities of the large-displacement AMG high-speed naturally aspirated engine arouse unadulterated passion in the driver. The jewel in the crown is the emotive, hallmark AMG eight-cylinder sound from the AMG sports exhaust system.

The optimised engine oil cooling ensures more performance even when the vehicle is put through its paces in harsh race-track conditions. With the aid of components from the SLS AMG, the AMG experts have managed to give the oil cooler a cooling surface which is 50 percent larger. The tried-and-trusted, innovative AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission takes care of power transmission. Four transmission modes, the double-declutching function and RACE START promise maximum motoring pleasure and a high degree of variability. In the “Sport plus” and “Manual” transmission modes the gear changes take a mere 100 milliseconds.

AMG coil-over sports suspension with an AMG rear axle differential lock

The AMG sports suspension is a sophisticated new development. It has been designed as a coil-over suspension, as is the norm in motorsport – and it represents a hallmark feature of a Black Series model. It offers numerous setting options, and allows the driver to create their own personal set-up. The track width of the axles has been widened by 40 (at the front) and 79 millimetres (at the rear) respectively. In conjunction with the modified torsion-bar stabilisers, the C 63 AMG Black Series impresses with its pronounced driving dynamics, high grip and low roll angle. The AMG speed-sensitive sports steering facilitates superb vehicle control: the retuned map control for the power assistance ensures optimum steering precision.

The standard-specification AMG rear axle differential lock is responsible for reliable traction in particular for race-track applications. The 3-stage ESP® offers the ideal solution for all driving situations: via the ESP® button the driver can choose from the “ESP ON”, “Sport Handling Mode” and “ESP OFF” stages. In view of the increased driving dynamics, not only has the anti-lock braking system been completely retuned; the AMG high-performance braking system has also been redeveloped: a larger braking system is now used, with discs featuring compound technology proven in motorsport at the front axle (format: 390 x 36 millimetres) and integral discs at the rear axle (360 x 26 mm). Red-painted six-piston fixed callipers at the front and four-piston fixed callipers at the rear reliably decelerate the perforated, fade-resistant brake discs, which are ventilated all round.

Interior with a functional motor-racing atmosphere

The captivating high-tech components and the spectacular exterior design both find their logical continuation in the interior of the C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series, which is black with red highlight elements, displaying the functional atmosphere of a true racing vehicle, whilst at the same time positively glowing with high quality and lovingly crafted details. Two AMG sports bucket seats facilitate the best levels of lateral support and thus optimum vehicle control on the race track. The black DINAMICA microfibre upholstery on the centre panels of the seats and doors is a new type of synthetic fibre which is characterised by its high lightfastness. The omission of the rear bench seat underlines the vehicle’s sporty character and reduces its weight. As an option the C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series is also available as a four-seater including the AMG sports seats familiar from the C 63 AMG Coupé – and with single seats in the rear.

The AMG performance steering wheel in nappa leather/DINAMICA microfibre with a steering wheel rim featuring flattened top and bottom sections has aluminium shift paddles for manual gear changes. Red seat belts and red contrasting topstitching on the steering wheel, on the seats, door centre panels, armrests on the doors, the centre console and on the shift lever gaiter add some interesting highlights. An exclusive “Black Series” logo adorns the trim on the dashboard, which sports a high-gloss black piano-lacquer look. The dashboard with three autonomous round dials has a three-dimensional TFT colour display. On opening the vehicle door the driver is greeted by AMG lettering. Possible displays for the engine oil temperature, the ESP® mode or the gear selection are integrated into the AMG main menu. The rotary switch for the C, S, S+ and M transmission modes and RACE START is located on the centre console next to the selector lever with a DINAMICA microfibre cover.

The C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series is proof positive that high driving dynamics and excellent active and passive safety need not necessarily be mutually exclusive: five airbags, belt tensioners and belt-force limiters for all seats are part of the standard specification, as are the anti-lock braking system ABS, the 3-stage ESP®, Headlamp Assist, the tyre pressure loss warning system and cruise control with SPEEDTRONIC variable speed limiter.

The standard specification also includes (selection):

• AMG door sills in stainless steel, brushed, with AMG logo
• AMG sports pedals in brushed stainless steel, with rubber studs
• Audio 20 CD radio with double tuner, colour display, Bluetooth® interface, hands-free function, USB interface and eight loudspeakers
• THERMATIC automatic climate control

AMG Track Package and AMG Aerodynamics package

AMG has two special packages to offer for enhancing driving dynamics even further: the AMG Track Package comprises 255/35 R 19 front and 285/30 R 19 rear sports tyres from Dunlop. They have been exclusively developed for the C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series, and they tangibly and measurably increase grip. Active rear-axle transmission cooling improves performance in punishing race-track conditions. The radiator is located in the rear apron and the airflow passes through it effectively.

What are known as flics are part of the AMG Aerodynamics package. They are made of genuine carbon fibre and located on the front apron. Also included in the package are a functionally tuned front splitter made of genuine carbon fibre and a fixed carbon-fibre rear aerofoil with an adjustable blade. Both components not only increase the lift at the front and rear axle; they also optimise the vehicle’s aerodynamic balance.

Other optional extras include:

• AMG Exterior Carbon-Fibre package (cross strut in front apron, exterior mirror housing, inserts on the side sill panel, diffuser insert and spoiler lip in genuine carbon fibre)
• AMG light-alloy wheels featuring forging technology, painted in matt black with a high-sheen finish on the rim flange, with 255/35 R 19 and 285/30 R 19 tyres
• AMG carbon-fibre trim
• Fire extinguisher
• Intelligent Light System ILS
• KEYLESS-GO
• Tinted side/rear windows

Four captivating Black Series models since 2006

Whilst its driving dynamics are totally suited to the race track, the new C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series offers all the properties which characterise a true Mercedes-Benz: suitability for everyday use, durability, safety and quality.

The most powerful C-Class of all time is the fourth Black Series model to be launched since 2006. The first one was the SLK 55 AMG Black Series. The AMG 5.5-litre V8 engine in the decidedly puristic two-seater enticed customers with its maximum output of 294 kW (400 hp) and a torque of 520 newton metres, and between July 2006 and April 2007 120 units were produced. The CLK 63 AMG Black Series followed directly in its footsteps. The two-seater coupé was powered by an AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine with 373 kW (507 hp) and a torque of 630 newton metres. Between April 2007 and March 2008 700 vehicles were made.

The highlight up until now was the SL 65 AMG Black Series, which was unveiled in July 2008: the high-performance coupé still captivates drivers today with its spectacular appearance, unique performance data, systematic lightweight construction and exclusivity of the highest calibre. The AMG 6.0 litre V12 biturbo engine with a maximum output of 493 kW (670 hp) and torque of 1000 newton metres made the SL 65 AMG Black Series the most powerful AMG vehicle ever to enter series production. In total there were 350 units built from September 2008 to August 2009.

The C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series is celebrating its world premiere during the Formula 1 race on the Nürburgring, the German Grand Prix (23 – 24 July 2011). The market launch will follow in January 2012, and its sales price is 115,430 euros (incl. 19% VAT).

Afghan war: Mayor of Kandahar killed in suicide attack

Kandahar is a critical area in the fight against the Taliban

 

The mayor of the volatile Afghan city of Kandahar, Ghulam Haidar Hameedi, has been killed in a suicide attack, officials say.

The attacker detonated explosives in his turban as the mayor made an address at the city hall, police said.
Two weeks ago, President Hamid Karzai's influential half-brother, Ahmad Wali Karzai, was killed in the same city.
The violence comes as Nato forces begin the handover of security to local troops in parts of the country.
Correspondents say Mr Hameedi had been speaking to local people who had come to discuss a land dispute when the explosion occurred.
Mr Hameedi had ordered for about 200 houses to be destroyed in the Loy Wala area as they had been built illegally, and two children had been killed as they were knocked down on Tuesday, security sources told the BBC.
Stability fears
The assassination is the latest in a string of attacks on influential officials in the country.
Earlier this month, Afghan President Hamid Karzai's brother, Ahmad Wali Karzai, one of the most powerful men in southern Afghanistan, was killed in Kandahar city.

His death prompted renewed fears over stability in Kandahar, seen as a critical area in the fight against the Taliban.

The BBC's Bilal Sarwary says Mr Hameedi was one of the most competent and trusted politicians in the region.
He had been mentioned as a possible figure to replace Ahmad Wali Karzai, according to AP news agency.
Ryan Crocker, a top US diplomat in Afghanistan, said the US "condemned in the strongest possible terms the death of another top government official", and expressed his condolences.
He said that the death showed the "extraordinary resilience" of the government and Afghan people in the face of the challenges.
Less than a week after Ahmad Wali Karzai's killing, a senior aide to Mr Karzai, Jan Mohammad Khan, died in an attack on his home in Kabul.
Kandhar was the country's designated capital during Taliban rule from 1996 to 2001 and has been the centre of the group's insurgency since they were overthrown in the US-led invasion.

Are you in Kandahar city? Did you witness the blast?

VOSLOO-VIEW

By: Bruce Mbingeleli

ALL HAIL TO THE DUCHESS OF CAMBRIBGE...

London is where it all happened, The Royal Wedding between the glorified Prince William of England and his “commoner” the now Princess Kate Middleton. It’s a bit funny why we must know about it all over the world. I mean at the end of the day it’s still just a wedding to me, but nonetheless everyone from my youngest niece to the most powerful people in the world was celebrating it and since we have a lust for holidays why don’t we just make the twenty ninth of April a holiday from now on maybe even I will celebrate it. What a prestigious event I must say with well known guests, the cavalry and the carriage made for a nice party and not viewing I’m even surprised why my girlfriend has not said a word about it and I discovered two ordinary people like us it didn’t make sense why someone, (please pay attention to “ordinary people like us”) from South Africa gets scrutinized in a bad way for throwing an expensive “sushi party”, or is it because sushi is not popular with S.A commoner’s? Is it because he’s an ex-convict? If it isn’t that discrimination? Someone please explain why this wedding is important. Middleton is one of the most beautiful brides I have seen in my life time and it was very disappointing to me that she was referred to as a “Commoner” as some would put it. All in all it was a nice and elegant wedding with brass bands which boasted class and were intriguing to watch as for the guests they were too obvious they would be there the like of Sir Elton John, David & Victoria Beckham etc... In closing it was an outstanding ceremony but it quite didn’t live up to its expectation as it was anticipated in simple terms I expected the impact of the 2010 World Cup but got the impression of street soccer instead.