Ever since the new Nissan GT-R made its return, it’s been considered the pinnacle of supercar performance. It nails everything from acceleration, to braking, to cornering to the overall way it makes a driver feel. Our friends at AutoCar decided to pin the new 540-hp 2013 Nissan GT-R (known as the 2012 model year in the UK) against the new 560-hp 2012 BMW M5 to find out if the new M5 can hold up to the hardcore Godzilla.

Check out their take after the jump.

Refresher:

• BMW M5: The 2012 BMW M5 is powered by a 4.4L V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo (consisting of Twin Scroll Twin Turbo Technology) making 560-hp between 6,000 and 7,000 rpm with a maximum torque of 502 lb-ft from 1,500 rpm. Mated to a 7-speed M Double Clutch Transmission Drivelogic (with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters), the 2012 BMW M5 goes from 0 to 62 mph in 4.4 seconds, 0 to 124 mph in 13 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph or 190 mph with M Driver’s Package.
• Nissan GT-R: The 2013 Nissan GT-R being the most powerful, is powered by a 3.8-liter twin turbo V6 engine making 545-hp, an increase of 15-hp over the 2012 GT-R, and torque has been increased from 448 lb-ft to 463 lb-ft. 0 to 62 mph for the 2013 GT-R has been reported to come in at 2.84 seconds.

- By: Omar Rana

“Our relationship with Zagato stretches back more than 50 years,” said Aston Martin’s CEO, Dr Ulrich Bez. “Together in that time we have created a series of very special cars. The first – the DB4GT Zagato – is a true icon: fast, beautiful and incredibly desirable. In the V12 Zagato I believe we have captured the spirit of that car and combined it with a confident twist of modernity to give it a character all of its own.”

Check out more news on the Aston Martin V12 Zagato.

After an overwhelming response to the concept, Aston decided to build a strictly limited run of V12 Zagatos – and by strict we mean only 150 units will be produced. starting Q3 2012 (first deliveries Q4 2012). Why only 150? Because creating each Aston Martin V12 Zagato takes about 2,000 man-hours to complete and just like the One-77, it is built from a combination of hand crafted aluminum and carbon fiber. The hood, signature ‘double-bubble’ roof and doors are hand-crafted aluminum, while the front and rear fenders, door sills and trunk lid surrounds are made from carbon fiber.

Power for the production Aston V12 Zagato will come from a 6.0 liter V12 engine making 510-hp and 420 lb-ft of torque. Fitted to a 6-speed manual transmission, the V12 Zagato will go form 0 to 62 mph in 4.2 seconds with a top speed of 190 mph.

Pricing for the Aston Martin V12 Zagato will start at £330,000 ($522,652 USD) in the UK.

- By: Omar Rana

The production version of the Aston Martin V12 Zagato is very similar to the concept and is based on the V12 Vantage with a bespoke carbon fiber, aluminum body work with bulging fenders and a ventilated hood. The model also features a rear spoiler and 19-inch alloy wheels wrapped in Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires.

Inside the cabin of the Aston Martin V12 Zagato gets less sport and more premium than the concept with leather seating, GPS navigation and a rear-view camera. It also features an optional 1,000 watt Bang & Olufsen Beosound sound system.

Power for the production V12 Zagato will come from a 6.0 liter V12 engine making 510-hp and 420 lb-ft of torque. Mated to a 6-speed manual transmission, the V12 Zagato will go form 0 to 62 mph in 4.2 seconds with a top speed of 190 mph.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Cars UK (via WCF)

Audi’s next R8 is already in development with promises of being fast enough and advanced enough to keep up with supercar competitors like Lamborghini and Porsche (which it actually share a parent with).

Two variants will be available for the next R8, starting with a 4,2-liter V8, and going up to the 5.2-liter V10, both mated to a seven-speed, dual-clutch transmission. Each being based on the first-generation’s power, refinements have been made for greater horsepower and improved fuel economy. The V10 is expected to kick out 550hp, and still provide 25.7 mpg.

A GT is also in the works for limited production and 2016 release that makes 580 hp from a 5.2-liter V10 engine, expected to compete with the Ferrari 458 Scudiera and others in the segment.

Check out more news on the Audi R8.

Design for the R8 is expected to set the standard for Audi models to follow, and will include E-Tron, aluminum structure, four-wheel drive, and a mid-engine layout. Exterior design should be totally different from the current R8.

Borrowing from Porsche, the R8 should be receiving additional technology like brake energy recuperation and automatic stop-start.

Audi is also setting out to cut weight down on the R8, even though new safety technology is included, using a modular construction process. More carbon fiber parts have been added along with aluminum monocoque to lighten the body, as well.

The model is scheduled for debut at the Moscow Motor Show in August, with release in the UK as a coupe for late 2014, and a roadster for mid-2015.

- By: Alexandra Koken

Source: AutoCar

To celebrate SVT’s anniversary, a commemorative lighted sill plate will be used in the 2013 Shelby GT500 to celebrate the years of performance vehicles.

“The Shelby GT500 convertible is every bit the performer that the coupe is,” said Kerry Baldori, SVT Global Performance Vehicles chief engineer. “All of the significant changes we made in the program were instrumental in delivering a convertible that could really shine on the track but can still be driven on a daily basis.”

Check out more news on the Ford Shelby GT500.

Power comes from the same 5.8 liter supercharged V8 engine making 650-hp with a maximum torque of 600 lb-ft – stopping power comes from a strong set of Brembo brakes. That helped the Shelby GT500 convertible with the optional Performance Package shave nearly 3.5 seconds off its lap time at the Sebring International Raceway. Like the coupe, the Ford Shelby GT500, the Performance Package can be upgraded to a Track Package, complete with an external engine oil cooler, rear differential cooler and transmission cooler for further durability.

How fast will it go from 0 to 60 mph and what will be the top speed? Well, Ford didn’t release that info so stay tuned for more.

- By: Omar Rana

Mercedes-Benz and AMG have been working together very hard to involve themselves in the supercar wars and one of these efforts is the current SLS AMG coupe and roadster. Though reports are now saying that Mercedes-Benz AMG is strongly considering the idea of expanding the AMG brand’s offerings, beginning with the much rumored and anticipated baby “baby SLS AMG.”

After an interview between AutoCarUK and AMG’s boss Ola Kallenius, it seems like AMG is getting closer to producing more models.

“AMG is a financial company and runs with targets, just like every other company,” said AMG’s boss Ola Kallenius. “These products can’t just be built for fun. We need a reasonable return to new fund projects.”

Kallenius pointed out that the current SLS AMG has that return and that the decision to expand the AMG brand is still a decent ways away. But either way, Kallenius also recognizes that the SLS’s success is enough to keep the AMG brand’s discussion of expansion under those pretenses.

“What is clear is that we have entered a segment with an overwhelming reaction from customers and fans — and many of them are entirely new customers to AMG — so it would certainly be the right strategy to grow the AMG brand.”

Should the plans succeed, we could see AMG’s rumored “baby SLS” receiving the green light. Supposedly, the “baby SLS” will cost roughly £80,000, marking it as the entry-level model. No other details have been announced, but it’s safe to assume that the “baby SLS” could go on sale as early as late 2013, donning the brand’s all-new twin-turbocharged 5.4L V8 good for 500hp.

It will be mounted in the front-mid position and will send its power to the rear-wheels. Put two and two together and it seems like AMG is aiming its sights directly at the Porsche 911 Carrera S. Both coupe and roadster versions are expected to be built.

- By: Chris Chin

Source: AutoCarUK

Some new rumors are floating around the mill regarding Maserati’s next efforts to expand its lineup and replace the wonderful, but aging Quattroporte. Word says that an all-new Quattroporte will possibly debut at next year’s North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

Reports have stated the new Quattroporte will be six inches wider and two inches longer than the current version. But despite the increase in size, the new Quattroporte is also said to get a 220lb diet.

Within that same rumor, there was a hint that Maserati could also introduce a smaller version of the Quattroporte for 2013. Though despite the sparse details, the “baby Quattroporte” will be roughly the same size as the current BMW 5-Series (which is still huge) and will be powered by either the choice of a turbocharged V6 gas or diesel engine.

In terms of Maserati’s other cars, reports also say that the Kubang SUV concept could see a production version as early as 2014 and will be based on the current Jeep Grand Cherokee. As for the also aging GranTurismo and GranCabrio, replacements are projected for 2015.

- By: Chris Chin

Source: WorldCarFans

Eli Manning is on top of the world. After proving that he is not only in the league of top tier quarterbacks like Tom Brady, Manning proved that he can take down top tier quarterbacks and lead his team to a Super Bowl victory.

Besides celebrating the win, Eli received a brand new 2012 Corvette Grand Sport Convertible Centennial Edition in recognition of his tremendous effort on the field in the Giants’ 21-17 win over the New England Patriots.

Check out more news on the Chevrolet Corvette.

The car was presented to Eli by Chevrolet, the official sponsor of the Super Bowl XLVI MVP Award, during the post game show.

The Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport Convertible comes with a 6.2 liter V8 making 436-hp and 424 lb-ft of torque. That allows it run from 0 to 60 mph in just 4 seconds. The black-on-black model that Eli received was a Chevrolet Centennial edition that commemorates 100 years of the brand’s history.

- By: Omar Rana

Known as the Bladon Jets Engineering Center, the facility will employ 15 people and will house equipment used for the production of the small gas turbines. Each engine produces around 95-hp.

The Jaguar C-X75 Concept was powered by four 195-hp electric motors – one for each wheel – producing a total of 780-hp and a peak torque of 1,180 lb ft. On battery power alone, the C-X75 has a range of 68 miles. After power from the lithium-ion batteries ran out, the C-X75 Concept was to use two gas micro-turbines that produce a total of 188-hp and extend the range to 560 miles. Mated to a single-speed transmission, the Jaguar C-X75 Concept ran from 0 to 62 mph in 3.4 seconds with a top speed of 205 mph.

Of the 250 units that don’t get the turbine, Jaguar will fit them with a 4-cylinder turbo engine produced by Formula One team Williams.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: AutoExpress

Teasing GT-R enthusiasts, Francois Bancon, Infiniti of Tokyo head of advanced planning, has recently mentioned the strong possibility of an Inifiniti model based on the Nissan GT-R platform.

“It’s too good a platform to use only on one model,” Bancon said. The GT-R based model would be a flagship sports car for the luxury brand.

He also adds that “We have three or four proposals we are looking at right now. Once we have launched the new smaller Infiniti (coming in 2015), the time would be right to have a flagship.”

It will be at least two years before we know Infiniti’s plans for sure, so if the brand does decide to move forward with the project, it would be at least another five years before production.

Check out more news on the Nissan GT-R.

If Infiniti does need a halo car, is it right to mess with the 545hp V6 icon? In order to place its badge on the car, it would take some refinement over the sports car, which almost feels wrong. Part of what makes the GT-R iconic is that it is great in its own way, all by itself, boasting awesome horsepower and track-ready performance. On the other hand, Bancon could be right, is it simply a waste to use this platform on just one model? From a business standpoint this may be a good perspective, but as an enthusiast, the GT-R platform should be left alone.

By: Alexandra Koken

Source: CARMagazine

Even 20 years, Jaguar’s engineers constructed the XJ220 using advanced aluminium honeycomb, which made the car significantly strong while weighing just 1,470 kg (3,234 pounds). Power for the Jaguar XJ220 came from a 3.5 liter V6 twin-turbo engine making 542-hp with a maximum torque of 475 lb-ft. Mated to a 5-speed gearbox and a AP Racing twin-plate clutch, the XJ220 was abel to hit 60 mph from 0 in under 4 seconds.

Production of the Jaguar XJ220 was completed by hand at Jag’s Bloxham, Oxfordshire factory. The first customer car was completed in June 1992 with a retail price of £470,000 ($743,046 USD).

Production of the model ended just 2 years later, by which 275 units were built.

- By: Omar Rana

Earlier this week, Acura dropped its full commercial for Super Bowl XLVI which features Jerry Seinfeld and Jay Leno attempting to convince the first buyer of the upcoming Acura NSX to hand them over his keys.

Check out original post on the Acura NSX.

Acura has now released another commercial, for the web only, where Seinfeld continues his attempts.

“In his ongoing attempts to acquire the very first Acura NSX, Jerry Seinfeld offers to trade the last living Munchkin to the one person in front of him on the waiting list,” Acura said about the commercial.

Check it out after the jump.

- By: Omar Rana

According to reports coming out of the UK, Lotus CEO Dany Bahar is looking for a partner who can buy Lotus from parent company Proton. Proton has controlled Lotus since 1996 and was recently sold to Malaysian Conglomerate DRB-Hicom.

Reports suggest that Bahar is making the move because Proton’s new owner may not be open to supporting Lotus’ new business ideas to compete with Ferrari, Lamborghini and Aston Martin. To reach that goal, Bahar is looking for around £500m to fund a future model line-up that will include a Elise, Elan, Esprit and Eterne cars.

Other reports circulating state that Genii Capital, the owner of the Lotus Formula One team, has shown an interest in buying the brand’s road-car arm. Also, more than one Chinese company has also shown interest.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: AutoCar

While we’re pretty sure they have something final now, a designer by the name of Dejan Hristov is taking a shot at what another iteration of the Bugatti sedan could look like.

Of course the design is very extreme and out there like concepts usually are, but Hristov take remains close to the Galibier’s profile.

Check out all the pictures in our high-res gallery.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: YankoDesign

Today is a very special day for all American muscle car fans – production of the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 has kicked off in Canada (ironic huh?) at GM’s Oshawa Assembly Plant.

Check out the Top 10 things you need to know about the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1.

“This is an exciting new chapter in the ongoing revival of the tremendously popular Chevrolet Camaro,” said Kevin Williams, president and managing director of GM of Canada. “The new 2012 Camaro ZL1 is the most-powerful Camaro ever produced by Chevrolet and further demonstrates the flexible capabilities of the award-winning Oshawa Assembly Plant.”

On hand for the launch of production was R ick Hendrick, owner of NASCAR’s Hendrick Motorsports, to celebrate the start of regular production. Hendrick, a Camaro purchased the first 2010 Camaro Coupe, the first 2011 Camaro Convertible, has now also purchased the first 2012 Camaro ZL1 available for public sale. Lucky guy.

Prices for the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 start at $54,995.

Check out more news on the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1.

Refresher: Power for the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 comes from a LSA 6.2L supercharged V8 making 580 horsepower and 556 lb-ft of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. 0 to 60 mph comes in just 4 seconds when mated to the manual transmission and 3.9 when mated to the automatic. Top speed comes in at 180 mph for the manual and 184 for the automatic.

- By: Omar Rana

The hand-built 2012 Audi R8 GT Spyder will see a limited production run of just 333 units, however, only 50 will make it to the United States.

Each model will come with a uniquely distinguished with an individual vehicle number displayed on the gear shift and a starting price tag of 211,200 (including $1,200 Destination and Delivery and Taxes).

Check out the full list of standard and optional features after the jump.

Refresher: Power for the 2012 Audi R8 GT Spyder comes from 5.2 liter FSI V10 that produces 560 horsepower and a peak torque of 398 lb-ft. That means each unit of horsepower has(6.46 lb). Mated to a 6-speed R tronic transmission with two fully automatic modes, the R8 GT Spyder goes from 0 to 62 mph in 3.8 seconds with a top speed of 197 mph. Only 333 units will be produced.

R8 GT Spyder Standard Features | Highlights:
− 5.2L 10-cylinder, gasoline engine, aluminum block
− quattro® all-wheel-drive
− Exterior mirrors: power adjustable, heated Front Airbags: Driver and passenger full-size dual-stage front airbags and knee airbags
− Side airbags: Driver and passenger seat mounted head and thorax airbags
− Front disc brakes: 8-Piston calipers, perforated, internally vented
− Rear disc brakes: 4-Piston calipers, perforated, internally vented
− LED headlights and daytime running lights
− Sport seats, heated, 10-way power with 4-way power lumbar
− Audi navigation system plus, 6-disc CD changer, Sirius Satellite Radio, Aux-in jack with 7 speakers and 5-channel amplifier with a total output of 140 Watts
− Preparation for mobile phone (Bluetooth®) with seatbelt microphone

R8 GT Specific Standard Features | Highlights:
− 19″ R8 GT wheels with summer performance tires
− R tronic ®, 6-speed sequential gearbox with shift-by-wire technology and sports mode
− R8 GT specific sport suspension system
− R8 GT specific carbon fiber matte exterior mirrors
− R8 GT specific LED tail lights
− R8 GT specific aluminum door sill inserts
− R8 GT specific steering wheel
− R8 GT specific sport seats in Alcantara and leather
− R8 GT specific carbon fiber matte interior inlays (monoposto and interior door handles)
− R8 GT specific numbered aluminum gear knob
− Windshield frame in Alcantara

Optional Equipment | Highlights:
− Audi navigation system plus with Audi music interface w/ iPod® cable (replaces 6-disc CD changer)
− Audi Carbon Ceramic Brakes
− Bang & Olufsen Sound System (12 speakers 495 watt)
− Titanium Finish 19″ 5-arm-double-spoke-design aluminum alloy wheels with summer performance tires
− Forged Aluminum 19″ 5-twin-spoke-Y-design in matte silver look with summer performance tires
− Carbon fiber matte door and center console panels
− Windscreen Frame in Fine Nappa Leather (interior)

- By: Omar Rana

Mercedes-Benz’s AMG arm is well known for debuting some exciting vehicles at the New York Auto Show. At the 2011 New York Auto Show, Mercedes-Benz took the wraps off of the 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG and this year, according to our sources, the Stuttgart automaker will bring us the SL63 AMG.

Power for the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG will come from a 5.5 liter twin-turbo V8 engine making 540-hp. The engine will be mated to a AMG Speedshift Plus 7-speed Multi-Clutch automatic and will help send power to the rear wheels.

Click here for our original post on the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL.

What we’re really waiting for is a brutal Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG Black Series.

We’ll have more details for you from the 2012 New York Auto Show in April. Stay tuned.

Refresher: The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550 will be available in the United States starting this spring. Power comes from a 4.6 liter V8 engine producing 429-hp with a maximum torque of 516 lb-ft. Mated to a 7-Speed Driver-Adaptive automatic transmission, it will go from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds.

- By: Omar Rana

The Nissan Juke-R may be a joke to many, but the car deserves its performance credits thanks to its 3.8 liter twin-turbo V6 from the Nissan GT-R along with the drivetrain, suspension and transmission. It produces a whopping 485-hp and can apparently go head-to-head with a Lamborghini Gallardo, Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG and a Ferrari 458 Italia.

Check out more news on the Nissan Juke-R.

While it is street legal, sadly, the Nissan Juke-R is not a production car and only two versions were built (a right-hand drive and a left-hand drive).

Either way, check out a the official video by Nissan after the jump.

- By: Omar Rana