Motor Trend recently reported that General Motors’ Performance Parts division will be giving a past engine a new twist. It was reported that a modernized version of the most celebrated engines in GM’s history, the all-aluminum ZL-1 427 big block, is on the way.
According to the report, the idea or reviving and modernizing the engine came when a component from the original engine was found. It was then that GM Performance Parts updated the past version but still maintained most of its design features. Dubbed as the Anniversary 427, it is composed of a single four-barrel carburetor induction system, built with a cast iron cylinder block and screw-in galley plugs. Also, this new engine will be built from the original tooling of the ZL-1.

Keeping up with the name, 427 units of the Anniversary 427 will be produced and will be sold in the first quarter of 2008. A 24-month/50,000 mile warranty, a certificate of authenticity, an engine plate with specifications and a matching number owner’s kit will be included in each engine.

Here are some details of the Anniversary 427 reported by Motor Trend:
• 4.250-inch bore
• 3.750-inch stroke
• 10.0:1 compression ratio
• Forged steel crankshaft
• Forged steel rods
• Forged aluminum pistons
• Hydraulic roller camshaft
• Aluminum oval-port cylinder heads with 2.19-inch intake valves and 1.88-inch exhaust valves Aluminum dual-plane intake manifold
• 850-cfm four-barrel carburetor
• Chrome air cleaner
• HEI ignition
• Natural-finish “427 CHEVROLET”-script aluminum valve covers with serial number (Anniversary 427)
• Black powder-coated “427 CHEVROLET”-script aluminum valve covers

ROUSH and Ford Racing Technologies have worked together in developing performance parts especially for the Ford GT500.  Autoblog.com recently reported that a Ford Racing GT500 Supercharger, which gives the vehicle 605 horsepower, was unveiled.
According to the press release posted in autoblog.com the supercharger increases the engine’s horsepower to 605 with 554 lb.-ft of torque and still maintains a 1-year/12,000 mile drivetrain warranty. The supercharger system also comprises a cold air kit and a Ford Racing ProCal(TM) calibration tool.

“Ford developed a magnificent engine with the creation of the 5.4-liter V-8 engine. They are able to pull 500 horsepower which is amazing for a street car and it’s no wonder it has quickly become one of the most sought-after Mustangs,” said Jack Roush. “But we thought we could get a little more out of that engine. In tandem, we were able to pull another 105 horsepower without compromising the warranty and I have no doubt that this new Ford Racing Supercharger will be in very high demand by owners of the Shelby GT500.”

The Ford Racing GT500 Supercharger is a product of the new TVS roots-style technology and increases airflow, hence generating more power.

Meanwhile, also helping boost engine performance, the cold air intake kit decreases pressure drop across the stock air box and filter element. It also has a high-flow, large 6-inch conical filter and the rotomolded airbox that avoids leakage.

Details of this report are based on the press release posted in autoblog.com

General Motors once again filled the 2007 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show with its customized and high-performance cars, trucks and SUVs, but this year, there was a clear message: “Green goes with mean.”
In a press release, GM dominated the annual car show with great performance parts and impressive designs. GM vehicles in the convention run on alternative fuels, like E85 ethanol, or feature fuel-efficient performance without compromise. Leading the pack is the E85-powered Corvette Z06, which is owned by one of the biggest car collector, Jay Leno. The supercar features a custom, 500-cubic-inch engine capable of producing approximately 600 horsepower.
Meanwhile, the FlexFuel Chevy Hot Rod, built by GM Performance Division, is reminiscent of the hot rods of the late 1940s and 1950s. Classic designs with contemporary technology are what best describe the FlexFuel Chevy Hot Rod. It is powered up by a 500-horse FlexFuel version of the turbocharged Ecotec engine and can run on E85, gasoline or any combination of the two.
Expect new concept cars from GM like the Pontiac Solstice SD-290 concept that shows a unique passenger compartment depicting vintage racecars, and a tuner-inspired version of the upcoming 2008 Saturn Astra.
Also present in the SEMA show are celebrity endorsements, including three Enclaves customized by Rick Bottom, former NBA star Jerome Williams’ Automotive Street Style, and Mitek, as well as the new Pontiac G8 GT built by rapper 50 Cent and Unique Autosports.
The SEMA show also became a venue for GM to introduce products and initiative. GM also partnered with DUB in developing some appearance and performance parts.

Together with GM Performance Division, GM Performance Parts (GMPP) modified the famous 1957 Chevy magazine car of all time – Popular Hot Rodding’s Project X.
A number of high-performance engines and engine support components were also included on GMPP’s list. On top of the list is a limited-edition, all-aluminum big-block based on the legendary ZL-1 engine, the Anniversary 427 crate engine. The ZZ427 completes it as a crate engine that features high performance through an iron cylinder block.
A new addition from the GMPP lineup is the LS3 crate engine, a tall-deck LSX cylinder block and a trio of “LS” engine controller kits all for easier engine integration.

Based on the press release from pressmediawire.com

In a recent press release, Lyons Performance LLC announced the launch of its new website and online store. According to the performance parts provider, this new website can now entertain its customers 24-7 and be able to access its products conveniently. The company proudly says that the website lets clients custom order parts like torque converters and automatic transmissions, along with suiting it to their vehicle.
“We are very proud of the relationship we have developed with Dynamic Racing Transmissions that allows us to offer quotes on custom built torque converters and transmissions,” says Matt Lyons Owner of Lyons Performance. “This helps to fill a gap in the online performance parts business. Every custom order submitted goes directly to the Dynamic headquarters where trained professionals design and quote a combination that is second to none.”
Aside from performance parts, Lyons Performance LLC has a large selection of detail products, restoration supplies, AN hose and fittings and vintage collectibles.
Lyons Performance LLC has been offering its service for over 25 years now and it aims to offer quality, time-tested products at an affordable price. Lyons target racers and those who want to bring back the brand new car performance.

An automotive expert of nytimes.com recently got a chance to drive a 2007 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX MR FQ-360. Capable of generating more than 360 horsepower, the Evo MR’s engine was modified by Japanese tuner firm, HKS. The engine control computer also underwent reprogramming, in order to unleash more turbocharger boost to the 2-liter 4-cylinder engine.

With great performance parts, this compact all-wheel-drive sedan with supercar performance can easily go to 60 miles an hour in just 3.9 seconds. This amazing vehicle is not available in the United States; the expert drove it in Ireland. Its base price in Britain is £34,641, about $70,000. Meanwhile, a less powerful American version, the 2006 Evo MR, was $36,924.
The expert tested the FQ-360 in the Wicklow Mountains south of Dublin, and impressively conquered the snaking two-lane roads. He managed to feel safe with the huge Brembo brakes.

Those who want to get the same performance in the US can have their Evo by simply reprogramming the engine control computer. Vishnu Tuning of California offers a $750 upgrade that increases power up to 380 horsepower. Vishnu claims that this equal the FQ-360’s 3.9-second sprint to 60 mph.

A new generation of the Subaru Impreza WRX STI will be making its world debut on October 24 at the 40th Tokyo Motor Show in Japan. The new Impreza is a product of Subaru Tecnica International (STI).

In a press release, the new all-wheel drive Impreza WRX STI is said to get new performance parts to give more power and great handling. It will be launched at the eve of Subaru Tecnica International’s 20th anniversary in April 2008. Its design was made to win FIA World Rally Championship in future seasons

STI model versions started back in 1994 when the first STI version of the Impreza was released with 250 PS @6500 rpm engine and weighed in at 2,650lb. STI made this vehicle to win the WRC. Since then the Subaru World Rally Car has been based on the turbo WRX model.

Based in Mitaka, Tokyo, Subaru Tecnica International inc. and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd.
Founded in 1988, STI was tasked to enhance Subaru’s motorsport activities including the WRC. This became Subaru’s testing ground and became their reference for the development of future models.

Mr. Ryuichiro Kuze, founder and STI’s first President, gave Subaru impressive achievements like setting a world speed record for continuous driving over 100,000 km.

Kuze was responsible for form the Subaru World Rally Team in Britain.

Subaru received its first WRC victory in 1993 in New Zealand, followed in 1995, 1996 and 1997.

Carstoday.com recently reported of sighting of what looks like a revived Ford Focus RS at the Nürburgring, despite Ford’s consistent denial of such model.

Ford has repetitively said that there is no possibility of an RS successor to the Ford Focus ST, but spy pictures and speculations says otherwise. The basis? A mystery black test mule was seen around the Nürburgring.

The test car was reported to have larger front air intakes and alloy wheels, and a sizeable rear wing and is looks more like an ST.

Reports say that the RS is packaged as a rally-inspired hatch that will be powered by a 3.0-liter in-line six engine that delivers 224 or a turbocharged version of the ST’s 2.5-liter mill with 209 KW. It will also feature an all-wheel drive system from Volvo and heavily reworked by Prodrive. Some also say that the RS will compete directly to the Mitsubishi Evo X and the Subaru Impreza WRX STI. Suggestion of being unveil in the Geneva Show was also mentioned in the report.

Even if Ford Team RS director, Jost Capito is behind the new vehicle, sources said that the RS project will be discontinued due to carbon dioxide emissions concerns.

According to Ford the mysterious black car is just a test bed for a number of high performance parts for future models.

Meanwhile, Suhir Matai of Car Magazine, Focus RS will not be coming anytime in the near future. He even said that the RS is not geared on making any profit but to simply prove that Ford is capable of manufacturing a high performance hatchback variant of the Focus.

Jack Roush, Jr.’s finished his first full season of KONI Challenge in the fourth place. He was joined by co-drivers Colin Braun and Dean Martin at Virginia International Raceway. According to reports done by grand-am.com, the team was the highest-finishing Mustang in the competition.

Roush had to learn the racetrack on the circuit and learn the performance of the No. 59 ROUSH Performance Mustang on a road course and in race traffic. Although Roush benefited from competing in the same event last year that prepares him in this year’s season. In fact, he beat his previous record for seven more seconds.

Braun, a new member of Roush Fenway Racing gained experience in this competition. Reports say that this was Braun’s first time behind the wheel of a GS division car, but this did not stop him from acquiring the skills to maneuver the slower, heavier cars around the track.

Braun had a good start but soon got some trouble with his vehicle, but he did not let this stop him. Tire trouble was his main concern but he managed to take over the lead a third time on lap 109. He was able to lead the race three times for six laps.

Martin also did his part but vehicle conditions prevent him from getting to third place.
“We picked up some type of vibration so I just backed it down to save the car,” he said. “There was nowhere for us to go (gaining or losing positions), and the car felt like it was really starting to go away. The smart thing was just to hold on to a fourth place finish and end the season without risking too much.”

Braun enjoyed the event, even saying, “It was fun. I wish we could have had a top-3 finish but we did the best we could today.”

Roush was likewise pleased with the turnout. “We put together a solid effort today and they guys on the Rehagen Racing team did a super job getting the ROUSH Performance Mustang prepared and pitted. It’s a great way to end the year with a career-best finish and it was really fun to finally drive a racetrack that I had experience on. I want to make sure that Dean (Martin) and all the guys on the team know how much I appreciate the effort they put into the program this year. I am already looking forward to 2008 and am really excited to go back to these tracks armed with the knowledge that I have gained this year.”

This story is based on the report done by grand-am.com

Preparation is the key to success, especially in the motorsport industry. All the racers and their respective teams can do is to prepare themselves and their vehicles by equipping them with the right performance-enhancing parts. This is just what legendary racer Warren Johnson did in his GM Performance Parts GTO to boost performance.

“Our primary goal is to get our GM Performance Parts GTO back into a performance window where we can be consistently competitive,” said Johnson. “Whereas recently we have shown ourselves to occasionally be fast, we head into Richmond looking to regain the consistent performance we had shown earlier this year, which sounds like a simple task, but in reality, is a lot of work.”

“You have to keep in mind that the tuning dynamics in any race car are in a constant state of flux. Whether you develop additional horsepower, work on a new chassis concept or simply change the shock rate or gear ratios, you have to re-evaluate the performance equation to make sure it works the way you want it to.”

“In the time since the last race, we went over the race car and uncovered a few issues that had been negatively affecting the tune-up for quite some time. We’ve addressed them, and had a one-day test to make sure everything is now working properly. Although we seem to have regained the handle, we won’t really know until after the first qualifying session on Friday.”

Although a race has no guarantees, the team didn’t know what to expect in the track at Virginia Motorsports Park. All they can do now is wait and see.

“They’ve ground the track since last year, when it was relatively bumpy, presenting us with an as-yet unknown amount of traction,” said Johnson. “Another variable which we cannot plan for are the atmospheric conditions, which could be anywhere from to extremely good to very poor. Therefore, we will just have to see what we have when we get there, and adapt according to what we find. We’ve certainly had our share of success in Richmond in the past, and I couldn’t think of any better place or time to get our GM Performance Parts GTO back on the winning track than at VMP this weekend.”

Quotes from this report were from, Motorsport.com.

Autospectator.com recently released information on the Toyota Tacoma. The 2008 model is said to be equipped with the most sophisticated dynamic control technology in its class, along with great performance parts.

Tacoma features four-cylinder and V6 engines, 4×2 and 4×4 drivetrains. Meanwhile, the PreRunner models remain to integrate the 4×2 drivetrain and the 4×4’s raised riding stance and styling. The X-Runner model is ready for great performance with its 236-horsepower V6 engine and specially tuned chassis.

The 2008 Toyota Tacoma will be offered in 18 different model configurations based on three cab types: Regular Cab, Access Cab, and the four-door Double Cab. Both the Tacoma Regular Cab and Access Cab models get a 73.5-inch-long bed; while the Double Cab will be available with 60.3-inch bed or the 73.5-inch bed.

Two new engines will be offered for the Tacoma line. A choice of a 2.7-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine capable of  generating 159 horsepower and180 lb-ft. of torque, or a 4.0-liter DOHC V6 that can produce 236 horsepower and 266 lb-ft. of torque is being offered. Also both engines come with variable valve timing with intelligence (VVT-i), which helps get strong low-end and mid-range torque. Meanwhile, to achieve better performance and fuel economy, an Electronic Throttle Control System with intelligence (ETCS-i) is included.

The driver opting for the V6 engine will have a choice between a six-speed manual and a five-speed automatic transmission. In the case of the four-cylinder models, a five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic transmission is offered.

When it comes to performance, Tacoma will be offered with various performance parts that motorists may want to include. For example, TRD Off-Road Package is described as “carefully tuned balance of off-road performance and on-road handling.” It has a locking rear differential, progressive-rate front springs, specially tuned Bilstein shock absorbers, a 28-mm front stabilizer bar and 265/70R16 BF Goodrich Rugged Trail tires on 16-inch alloy wheels.

New in the 2008 Toyota Tacoma is the Rugged Trail Off-Road Package, limited on V6 models with black, white or silver exterior paint colors.  It will also get locking rear differential, progressive-rate front springs, specially tuned Bilstein shock absorbers, stabilizer bar and TRD graphics. Add to that black 16-inch Baja wheels, black overfenders, skid plate, and all-weather guard floor mats.

For the complete details on the 2008 Toyota Tacoma, click here.