Thursday, October 31, 2024

Toyota Turned Its Two Best SUVs Into Convertibles

The Land Cruiser and 4Runner are getting the droptop treatment for SEMA. And they look awesome.

The Real Lightning Is Back: Ford to Sell Supercharged F-150 Street Truck

It will be an after-sale, dealer-installed package that comes with a warranty, sold through Ford's new Ford Custom Garage program.

The Lexus LFR Supercar Sounds Promising

It doesn't have the LFA's glorious naturally aspirated V-10 but the new twin-turbo V-8 sounds good.

Hyundai Previews Fresh Design Language With Boxy SUV

We're getting a Pontiac Aztek vibe from the rear pillar.

Tuesday, October 29, 2024

Sunday, October 27, 2024

Listen as the First BMW M5 Screams Down the Autobahn

With the M5, it's possible BMW got it right the first time.

Here's Your Chance to Own a Real Prodrive-Built Subaru Rally Car

This Subaru Impreza rally car was built by Prodrive in the 1990s, and used as a test car for Colin McRae. Now, you can own it.

Thursday, October 24, 2024

These Three European Cars Were Weird. You Can Import Them for Cheap

Everybody is importing Japanese Kei cars, but there are even better ways to waste your money, believe it or not.

You Won't Believe This: The Tesla Roadster Is Delayed Again

Musk said the new Roadster 'has to come behind the things that have a more serious impact on the good of the world.'

Subaru Outback Gets STI Goodies Before It Dies In Japan

The wagon celebrates its 30th anniversary but retirement is looming in Japan.

Kia Knows Its First Truck Looks Weird

It will offer a "fix" to make the Tasman look more normal.

Monday, October 21, 2024

How We Built a 1500HP BMW S58 Engine: Step-by-Step Guide [by R44 Performance]


Attachment 3580808

Hi everyone. For those who don’t know, R44 Performance is currently building a G87 M2 xDrive drag car in partnership with Tom Wrigley Performance due to be shipped over to the US very soon for Texas 2K25 and a number of other events. The goal is to achieve a 1:1 power-to-weight ratio with upwards of 1500bhp & 1500 kg.

Of course, achieving this level of power required building the S58 engine with a range of upgraded internals. There are lots of big power S58s out there and we wanted to share the exact parts & setup we’re running to maintain reliability with such high performance.

If you’re into engineering, this post is definitely for you!

PART 1:

PART 2:

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A lot of people have asked us “Do you mean 1500 wheel-horsepower or 1500 bhp?”. The honest answer is: we’re not quite sure yet. The built engine will be capable of around 1800 bhp and the car is yet to be tuned and dialed in. We’ll be detailing the exact power and weight figures very soon!

For the latest updates on the project, check out the build thread here: https://g87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh….php?t=2104190

ISN’T THE BMW S58 ENGINE FORGED FROM FACTORY?

Although the main internal components – crankshaft, pistons, conrods, camshafts – are already forged from the factory, forging is just a manufacturing process. Design & materials also play a huge role when it comes to strength. In order to achieve this level of power reliably, the majority of the engine internals need to be upgraded with stronger components.

Attachment 3580812

WHAT ENGINE HARDWARE NEEDS TO BE UPGRADED?

To make things simple, here is a list of all the internals our S58 is running:

  • ARP main studs
  • ARP head studs (custom age 625+)
  • 5150 AutoSport CPM Carrillo Pro-Xtreme pistons
  • 5150 AutoSport CPM Carrillo Pro-Xtreme rods
  • 5150 AutoSport Xtreme Duty cylinder sleeves & O-rings
  • 5150 AutoSport High-Performance main bearings
  • 5150 AutoSport High-Performance rod bearings
  • GSC billet S2 camshafts
  • GSC beehive valve springs
  • GSC STD intake valves
  • GSC super alloy exhaust valves
  • GSC intake & exhaust valve stem seals

ARP STUDS

We used ARP studs on our previous 1,000 bhp G80 M3 build and they’ll be essential for our G87 project. The studs will allow a higher clamping pressure and improve stability and strength. The OEM bolts can move around a bit which puts wear on the bearings and increases the chance of failure.

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PRO-XTREME PISTONS & RODS

These components are manufactured by Carrillo but built to 5150 AutoSport’s specifications. The rods take an unbelievable amount of strain, which is why upgrading to a thicker forged aluminum rod is essential. The pistons are also forged aluminum with a different strength-promoting design, as shown in the side-by-side comparison.

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XTREME DUTY CYLINDER SLEEVES & O-RINGS

To increase the strength of the block itself, we’re using heavy-duty cylinder sleeves, also from 5150 AutoSport. Installing these required machining, courtesy of SpecJ Motorsport here in the UK. The O-rings that accompany the sleeves pinch the head gasket to the head, allowing us to run high levels of boost without any lift.

Attachment 3580820

GSC BILLET STAGE 2 CAMSHAFTS

These BMW S58 upgraded camshafts from GSC are works of art. In addition to looking amazing, these camshafts are incredibly strong, as proven on Tom Wrigley’s 1500 bhp G80 M3. In addition to being stronger, the GSC stage 2 cams have larger lobes which cause the valves to open further and for longer. The stage 3 camshafts have an even larger lobe duration however, they are largely untested at the moment which is why we’re sticking with the tried and tested S2’s for now.

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GSC UPRATED VALVES

In addition to the camshafts, GSC also supplied us with their super alloy valves. Just like the other components, the valves are incredibly strong to ensure the setup copes with high levels of boost and an increased redline. The most notable difference is the design of the head which is also swirl-polished. This increases airflow by 30CFM over the standard valves.

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All benefits include:

  • Swirl polished heads for smoother airflow over the valve
  • Back cut to reduce valve weight for higher RPM, higher boost pressure, and allow for more aggressive cam profiles without increasing valve spring seat pressures
  • Valve stems are micro-polished to allow for less oil retention on the stem, which creates less drag on the stem to guide for a smoother motion
  • Intake valves are a modified 21-4n stainless
  • Valve tips are either hardened or have a stelite wafer tip fused so that the tip is within 5 Rockwell C of the rocker or valve tappet for extended life and less wear
  • Valve tip lengths – GSC has taken extra time to adjust tip heights on the applications to require less tipping of the valve, to maintain proper tip height for proper valve train geometry, and to cut down on install times when setting valve lash
  • GSC has also adjusted the keeper groove to properly balance intake and exhaust spring pressures to reduce the use of valve spring shims and maximize performance from our spring and retainer kits.

GSC BEEHIVE VALVE SPRINGS

To support the valves, we’re running GSC’s oval valve springs with titanium retainers. The ‘beehive’ design means the coils are progressive in size, increasing strength. They also utilize advanced material heat treatment methods for superior load loss capabilities. These springs have the highest level of spring load retention while still maintaining good fatigue throughout the life of the spring. Beehive springs allow for the use of a smaller, lighter retainer allowing for higher RPM and more valve control.

Attachment 3580826

Valve specifications:

Max RPM: 9,000 RPM
Max boost: 70 psi
101 lbs @ 1.415" install height
221lbs @ 0.982" (11mm Valve Lift)

Attachment 3580827

Their primary function is to prevent what’s known as valve float. This is where high levels of boost cause the valves to push open as the spring doesn’t have enough resistance.

GSC VALVE STEM SEALS

Lastly, GSC Power-Division Viton® valve seals provide improved resistance to high temperatures, fuel, and chemical contaminants as well as extended wear as seen in high rpm engines. These are the last pieces to the puzzle and round up the engine hardware we’re using to achieve over 1500 bhp in our BMW G87 M2’s S58 engine.

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We’re aware that, for those who aren’t deep within the BMW tuning community, finding a reliable source of both engine parts and advice can be difficult. R44 Performance is now an authorized supplier of all the engine components listed above and much more. If you require any help or advice about which components would be best for your application, get in touch with our sales team: https://r44performance.com/pages/contact

5150 AutoSport: https://r44performance.com/collections/5150-autosport
GSC Power-Division: https://r44performance.com/collectio…n-engine-parts

Subaru's New Hybrid System Delivers Long Range

More than 621 miles will be possible before having to refuel.

Mazda MX-5 Miata 35th Anniversary Edition: This Is It

Production will be limited by time rather than the number of cars.

Jeremy Clarkson Endured Surgery for Clogged Arteries

The two-hour surgery went smoothly and he didn't need a heart bypass.

Sunday, October 20, 2024

Michael Schumacher’s Last Ferrari F1 Car Can Be Yours

He won five races and surpassed Ayrton Senna’s pole position record in this car.

The Ferrari Roma Looks Good With Wood

A special Tailor Made edition gets a healthy heaping of Nappa leather and wood trim—and it looks lovely.

Don't Use Tap Water To Cool Your Engine. Here's Why

This Nissan KA24DE from a 240SX didn't die from abuse. It died from neglect.

Saturday, October 19, 2024

True Joy Is Four-Wheel Drifting a GR Yaris Around a Race Track

Why worry about lap times when getting sideways is an option?

Even BMW's Gas Cars Will Look Like EVs

The 'Neue Klasse' design language isn't just for electrification.

Considering PCD? Do It!


After being thwarted by Hurricane Helene, and almost Milton, the folks at PCD were able to make my delivery happen on October 11th. And a huge shout out to Seth and Justin at PCD, Clint on the track training, Elisia on the factory tour, and Stan on personalized delivery. These are all people who were getting through the aftermath of a major hurricane and were still there to make us feel so special for our deliveries.

Everything about PCD is special, from the morning introduction to the track. If youre up to it you take an M3 out on the polished concrete and wet skid pad, turn off DSC and spin that thing out. What a blast, But then you turn the safety features back on and do it again, and push it, and you stay in control. Amazing. Several rounds of learning how to properly use ABS, followed by 8 slalom runs learning that your car actually does go where your eyes are, and if you look at the cones, you hit them.

The X5 off road course is a blast. Even if only 1% of X5 owners will ever push it to those limits.

Factory tour, the Zentrum, the gourmet lunch and then your personalized delivery. If youve ever had a dealership "genius" explain your car to you – leave that behind. This is the most thorough intro to your new BMW you will ever have. This is my 5th Bimmer, and I still learned a lot.

I drove my new X6 M60i home to Florida and loved every minute of it. Also a shout out to Vlad at Upstate Auto Detailing in Spartanburg, who put a 3 year ceramic coating on my car overnight before I left Spartanburg. Highly recommend.

Finally, Jon Shafer and Matt Corea at BMW Santa Maria, who made sure we made it through the whole hurricane issues and Florida DMV issues.

Tanzanite over Oyster. Definitely recommend the Driving Assistant Pro package. It is a game changer. Fully automated driving highway driving, even in stop and go traffic. But you can still step on it when needed, and it comes back to the system.

McLaren P1 Engine For Sale, Hypercar Not Included

It’s the larger twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 from the ultra-rare P1 LM.

Friday, October 18, 2024

2026 M2 Racing Car Unveiled


BMW M Motorsport has unveiled the new BMW G87 M2 Racing

"Meet the new kid on the block: the BMW M2 Racing! 👀 Affordable, packed with sophisticated tech, and ready to tear up the track in 2026. This entry-level beast is your gateway to GT4 and GT3—perfect for stepping into the big leagues. 🚗💨

Oh, and the camo isn’t just for hiding. It’s made from legendary track maps with many of the most iconic circuit segments highlighted in purple. Can you name them all?"

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Dodge Has Another Ludicrously Expensive Durango Hellcat

The Brass Monkey costs $113,720, slightly more than a BMW X7 M60i.

The Mazda Truck You Forgot About Gets a Huge Badge

Despite the size of that logo, this isn't really a Mazda.

Ferrari: The F80 Hypercar's V-6 Is Better than the V-12

After three flagships with V-12s, Maranello's new range-topper halves the cylinder count.

Thursday, October 17, 2024

Finally Finished Skyscraper Grey / Kyalami G80 Build


Took delivery in early March and finally finished all of the cosmetic/performance mods that I wanted to do. Now the only things left is some minor aesthetic mods to the engine bay and interior. Would love to hear everyone’s thoughts!

Exterior:
ADRO Front Bumper
Alpha-N Carbon Fiber Hood
Maxton Design Sideskirts
Norcal Dynamics LED Diffuser
High-Kick Carbon Spoiler
20” BBS LMs
Bayoptiks CSL Yellow DRLs
Bayoptiks GTS Taillights

Performance:
MAD Front Mount Intakes
MAD Catted Downpipes
BM3 Stage 2 OTS Tune
Project Gamma Full Exhaust
SST Valve Controller
KW V3 Coilovers

Interior:
Custom Carbon Fiber/Alcantara Steering Wheel

Stellantis Is Pausing Production of Another Slow-Selling Car

The cute Fiat Panda will be on a hiatus for many days in November.

Alfa Romeo Will Keep Gas Engines If That's What People Want

The next Giulia and Stelvio might not be electric-only after all.

Mercedes-AMG C43 and SL43 Quietly Get More Power

There's now a rear-wheel-drive E-Class, too.

Wednesday, October 16, 2024

2025 Nissan Murano: This Is It

The fourth-generation crossover is finally here, and it lost its CVT in the journey.

BMW CEO Says Europe’s ICE Engine Ban is “No Longer Realistic”


BMW chief says EU combustion engine ban will shrink car industry

Oliver Zipse tells Paris motor show 2035 cutoff point for CO2-emitting cars is ‘no longer realistic’

The EU’s plans to ban the manufacture of traditional combustion engines from 2035 will shrink the industry, BMW’s chief executive has warned as the German car industry battles with increased competition from China in the electric vehicle sector.

In a comment that will alarm Brussels, Oliver Zipse told the Paris motor show the 2035 cutoff point for CO2-emitting cars was “no longer realistic”.

The ban “could also threaten the European automotive industry in its heart,” Zipse said. The measures will “with today’s assumptions, lead to a massive shrinking of the industry as a whole”.

Rest of article: https://www.theguardian.com/business…n-car-industry

Kia's First Pickup Truck Gets a Reveal Date

We'll see the Tasman in less than two weeks.

Struggling Stellantis Brands Have 2-3 Years to Save Themselves

The future of Chrysler, Lancia, and co. will be decided as early as 2026.

Tuesday, October 15, 2024

Sunday, October 13, 2024

Hot Wheels Is Finally Making Official Formula 1 Cars

There will be a series of toy cars that feature various teams.

This V-16 Engine Is Made From 16 Chainsaws

There's nearly one liter of displacement in this monstrosity, and it actually works. Sort of, anyway.

Heads-Up: Metal Wire Screen Oil Filters Suck

A test comparing a metal-based filter to a traditional paper-based filter revealed some disturbing results.

Saturday, October 12, 2024

Here's Proof You Should Never Modify the LFA's Exhaust

The message is clear: Don't mess with perfection.

This Broken BMW Engine Is Proof You Should Ignore Factory Oil Change Intervals

Plastic timing chain guides and long oil change intervals mean some turbocharged BMW engines have a tendency to starve themselves.

Most Car Ramps Are Sketchy to Use, Testing Shows

Car ramps are marketed as a cheap, time-efficient alternative to jack stands. But their safety is ... questionable.

Thursday, October 10, 2024

Two M2s in the Morning Fog


An epic drive up and over Parrot Mountain and Bald Peak in the NW Oregon foothills.

Started out around 40 degrees, in dense fog, which made for some awesome shots! Very impressive handling in slippery conditions (although a set of all weather Michelins might be good idea for future fall drives).

Both M2s share a variety of carbon bits, M Performance Suspension, strut braces, intakes, and Dinan X pipes. The 6MT Calypso Red has 825M forged wheels. The ZF autoToronto Red adds an axle back Dinan exhaust and a Race Chip. Both can fly!

Mercedes S-Class to Keep Gas Engines Well into the 2030s

An electric S-Class is coming, but conventional engines are sticking around for the long haul.

The Lexus LX 700h Overtrail Is a Rugged Hybrid Luxobarge

Lexus finally electrifies its flagship SUV and gives it an off-road trim.

Tuesday, October 8, 2024

G99 M5 Touring Styling Kit by AUTOID


Hey everyone,
Following the successful reception of our TRE carbon fibre kit for the G90 BMW M5, AUTOID is pleased to announce the development of a new carbon fibre kit specifically designed for the G99 M5 Touring.

Front Splitter, Front Bumper Duct Extensions, Side Skirts, Rear Diffuser. We will also be developing a rear spoiler not seen in these renders.

Let me know your thoughts.

Oh Look, Another Retro Ford Bronco

The Bronco Free Wheeling package is a callback to the colorful Broncos and F-Series trucks offered in the late 1970s.

Ferrari GTO Gets Modern Tires Decades After Production Ended

Pirelli now offers newly developed rubber for all Ferrari flagship supercars.

Toyota and Hyundai Will Show Their Sports Cars Together

Could this be the beginning of something great?

Saturday, October 5, 2024

Thursday, October 3, 2024

G81 M3 Skyscraper Grey with BBS LMR Diamond Black Akrapovic Exhaust M Performance Carbon


After all these years owning several Bmw’s, I finally got the M3 Touring Competition Xdrive! It’s been a dream for me of owning a wagon and we’re so lucky to have M3 wagon here. I’ve had Brooklyn Grey G82 M4 Competition last year and as soon as they started selling the wagon, I immediately sold the M4 last month and Got the wagon just 3 weeks ago from a local BMW dealership. No waiting for wagon here. We have lots of units available at the dealer. All colors. So, it is 2024 and the color is Skyscraper Grey with Black leather interior.

Anyway, as usual, let’s get going with the modifications! We do have several aftermarket shops around here that fortunately have all the parts ready to installed. Only some of the Parts needed to be order. Thanks to Fedex and Ups express I got all the order within one week. Awesome! Here’s the list:

Exterior:

Newest wheel:
-BBS LMR in Diamond Black. Front: 20×10. Rear: 20×11.
-Michelin Pilot Sport 4S. Front: 285/30/20. Rear: 295/30/20

Older wheels:
-BBS RID in Diamond Black. Front: 20×9,5. Rear: 20×10,5
-Michelin Pilot Sport 4S. Front: 275/30/20. Rear: 295/30/20

-Akrapovic Evolution Line Titanium Exhaust with Quad Octagonal Carbon Tips.
-KW V3 Coilover with Module Deleter
-M Performance Rear Diffuser Carbon
-M Performance Front Lip Spoiler Carbon
-M Performance Air Breather Carbon
-M Performance Mirror Cover Carbon
-M Performance Air Inlet Frame Carbon
-MHC+ Side Skirt Carbon
-MHC+ GT Front Grille Carbon

Interior:
-M Performance Alcantara Back Seats Carbon
-M Performance Alcantara Armrest
-M Performance Alcantara Kneepads
-M Performance Alcantara Steering Wheel Lci Flat Bottom
-M Performance Floor Mats
-Motorsport+ Drl Yellow

It's Amazing How Many Toyota Camrys Are Sold Each Day

We did the math so that you don't have to.

Stellantis Sales Continue to Fall Hard

All American brands were down in the third quarter.

Someone Bought a New Dodge Dart This Year

The compact sedan died eight years ago.