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Journalists that attended a pre-Detroit show event on the new 2011 Ford Mustang GT have spilled more beans on the new 5.0-liter V8 engine that uses an aluminum block with cast-iron cylinder sleeves. We already knew that the eight-cylinder powerplant churns out 412 horsepower, but now, we've also learned that those ponies will be delivered at 6,500 rpm and that the new engine produces 390 lb-ft of torque, up from the current 4.6-liter V8's 315HP and 325 lb-ft.
In addition, it was also confirmed that the brand-new V8, which features four valves per cylinder and twin independent variable valve timing, will be linked to six-speed transmissions in both automatic and manual forms.
Last but not least, the bean spillers said that the new 2011 Mustang GT will return a fuel economy of 25mpg (9.4lt/100km), most probably on the highway.
In comparison, the 2010 Chevy Camaro SS' 6.2-liter V8 produces 426HP at 5,900rpm and 420 lb-ft at 4,600 rpm, returning 24mpg on the highway, while the 2010 Dodge Challenger SRT8's 6.1-liter Hemi V8 is rated at 42H5HP at 6,000 rpm and 420 lb-ft at 4,800 rpm, returning 22mpg on the highway.
Via: Autoweek and Edmunds*Photos: 2010 Ford Mustang GT
For those of you that fancy a topless E-Class, Mercedes-Benz has revealed a convertible version of the coupe that will make its world premiere at next month's Detroit auto show. The fourth member of the E-Class family, which essentially replaces the CLK Cabriolet, features a classic fabric soft top can be opened and closed fully automatically within 20 seconds at speeds up to 40km/h or 25mph.
Mercedes says that E-Class Convertible's boot capacity with the roof open is 300 liters (13.5 cu.ft.) , raising to 390 liters (13.8 cu.ft.) when closed.
The most significant new feature for the four-seater cabriolet is the AIRCAP system that consists of two components, a wind deflector on top of the windscreen that can be extended by around six centimetres or 2.5 inches and a draught-stop between the rear seats.
As well as reducing wind turbulence in the cabin, Mercedes says that the system also reduces the interior noise level. The AIRCAP can be activated at speeds of up to 160 km/h and remains in use right up to the car's top speed.
Other highlights include the redesigned AIRSCARF system that is integrated into the backrests of the front seats and provides warm air through outlets in the head restraints.
All E-Class Convertible models are equipped with seven airbags fitted as standard and a roll-over protection system that consists of two bars, each with a diameter of 35 mm, which are housed in the rear head restraints in modules behind the rear seat backrests.
At least in Europe, there are plenty of direct-injection engines to choose from, ranging from a 204HP four-cylinder diesel (to be followed shortly after launch by a 170HP E220 CDI model) to a 388HP V8 petrol. Here's the complete range:
- E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Cabriolet (diesel): 150 kW/204 hp
- E 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Cabriolet (diesel): 170 kW/231 hp
- E 250 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY Cabriolet (petrol): 150 kW/204 hp
- E 350 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY Cabriolet (petrol): 215 kW/292 hp
- E 500 Cabriolet (petrol): 285 kW/388 hp
In North America, the new E-Class Convertible will be offered only with the 292HP 3.5-liter V6 (E350 CGI) and the 388HP 5.5-liter V8 (E500).
Mercedes said that the four-seater cabrio will go on sale in March 2010.
