Lancer Evolution 8
MITSUBISHI announces the release of the Lancer Evolution 8 sports sedan in Japan on January 31. The main features of the Lancer Evolution 8 are : Exterior : Evolution 8 presents a more aggressive exterior design that incorporates the Mitsubishi design logo in the front grille and sees improvements in aerodynamic and cooling performance. Intercooler efficiency has been boosted with a 10% enlargement of the mid-bumper air intake. The rear spoiler adopts carbon fiber-reinforced plastic in its composition. Interior : Evolution 8 uses an off-black colour scheme and the strategic placement of dark titanium-finish panels. Recaro bucket seats use slim-line bolsters and a lustrous blue knit fabric with a distinctive dimple-finish. Engine : Evolution 8 is powered by an improved version of the 2.0liter in-line 4-cylinder 16-valve DOHC twin scroll intercooled turbocharged 4G63 engine that develops maximum of 280 horsepower and 40.0kg-m of torque. Optimization of the turbocharger has produced maximum torque of 40.0kg and even gutsier, flatter torque in the 3000rpm to 5000rpm band. To enable the higher torque, cooling performance has been improved by updating the water pump capacity and by enlarging the water passages in the turbocharger. Engine durability and reliability have also been improved by up rating the aluminium pistons and forged steel conrods. Transmission : Evolution 8 adopts a 6 speed close-ratio gearbox to maximally utilize the engine's outstanding power and torque characteristics. The RS comes with a 5 speed manual gearbox and is available with 6 speed gearbox. The 6 speed gearbox employs a pull-ring mechanism to prevent accidental selection of reverse. All wheel control system : Mitsubishi's All-Wheel Control system, comprising ACD, AYC and Sports ABS, has elevated Evolution's traction and dynamic performance to new levels. Debuting on Evolution 8,the new Super AYC now brings further and significant improvements to handling performance. Super AYC uses a planetary gear differential in place of the bevel gear type in the current AYC to double the amount of torque it can transfer between the rear wheels. This enables Super AYC to boost both cornering and traction performance. Brakes : The Evolution 8 uses the same brakes as its predecessor ; 17 inch ventilated discs with 4 piston BREMBO callipers at the front and 16 inches ventilated discs with 2 piston callipers at the rear. Evolution 8 also retains Sports ABS with EBD (Electronic Brake Force Distribution), which uses a steering wheel angle sensor to detect steering inputs. The computer uses this information to regulate braking force at each wheel independently and improve handling behavior under braking. Body : To improve handling stability and perceived driving quality, Evolution 8's body has been made stronger and stiffer in a program pinpointing those areas giving the largest gain in strength for the smallest increase in weight. Suspension : Complementing the stiffer body, detailed revision of Evolution 8's MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension results in better at-limit handling stability and perceived driving quality on all conditions.
Honda S2000
The Honda S2000 produces more power per litre than any other non-turbo production engine and sends the rev counter needle sweeping around to the 9,000 mark. Honda built this remarkable two-litre car to celebrate the first 50 years and it zooms to 62mph in just 6.2 seconds. Where conditions allow, the car will carry on accelerating to 150mph. But the adrenaline-pumping performance of the amazing Honda S2000 roadster is also kind to the environment. Thanks to Honda's latest advances in engine technology, the Honda S2000 meets the world's toughest emissions legislation. Packed with racing technology, it is Honda's first classic front-engined, rear-driven model since the much-loved S800 appeared in 1965. Almost everything about the Honda S2000 is special. Based on an X-shaped body-chassis, it gets super agility from a new breed of double wishbone suspension. Perfect weight distribution gives the precision handling that makes this roadster a driver's dream. A six-speed close-ratio gearbox made-up of lightweight components maximises the true sportscar experience. Press the big red start button on the dashboard to fire up the engine and you'll soon know why this is one of the most eagerly awaited sports cars of the last few years. Small wonder the Honda S2000 is already regarded as a collector's item.
