This is how America does British super cars.

It’s not often that you see a US-based tuning company that specializes in good ol’ ‘merican muscle take on a British super car. Well, that’s exactly what Hennessey Performance did by designing a new McLaren MP4-12C tuning program that transforms the super car into an 800 horsepower chariot.

The new McLaren MP4-12C looked to shake up the super car world by taking down the longstanding marques such as Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Porsche. In stock form, the MP4-12C does a superb job of mastering the everyday super car formula and giving drivers phenomenal performance figures.

But Hennessey Performance, the muscle car wizards of forced induction wanted more from the 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged V-8 engine sitting behind the cockpit in the McLaren, so they developed and designed the HPE800 MP4-12C tuning program for the British super car.

“We’ve been taking fast cars and have been making them faster for over twenty years,” said company founder and president John Hennessey. “I spent a lot of time around the new 12C at the 2011 Goodwood Festival of Speed and was very impressed. We’re excited to have the opportunity to take a great car and give it our own special performance touch while giving 12C owners a uniquely aggressive appearance”.

The HPE800 MP4-12C tuning program mainly focuses on the engine and exterior of the car. The 3.8-liter V-8 receives upgraded intercooler and intake systems, ball-bearing turbochargers, external wastegates and blow-off valves, a new Hennessey Performance exhaust system, and dyno tuned upgraded fuel and engine management systems as part of the HPE800 package. The upgrade sends output skyrocketing all the way to 800 horsepower, an increase of over 200 horsepower. To handle the added power, Hennessey Performance also installs an upgraded transmission cooler and clutch system.

With all that added American horsepower churning the rear wheels and rocketing the British super car to otherworldly speeds, Hennessey Performance created a new aerodynamic kit out of necessity. A new CarbonAero kit can be fitted as part of the HPE800 MP4-12C tuning program and helps to improve cooling, downforce, and high speed stability. In addition to the body kit, Hennessey Performance also offers monoblock wheels and Michelin Pilot Sport tires.

Customers can also choose to outfit the interior with an array of leather, alcantara, and carbon fiber.

The Hennessey Performance HPE800 McLaren MP4-12C tuning program will be available as an entire package with optional individual parts from their facilities in Texas and California. Pricing has not been released.

Hennessey Performance HPE800 McLaren MP4-12C Tuning Specifications

Engine/Transmission:
• Upgraded intercooler system
• Upgraded air intake system
• Upgraded ball-bearing turbochargers
• Hennessey titanium exhaust system
• External wastegates
• External blow-off valves
• Upgraded fuel and engine management system
• Upgraded transmission cooler
• Upgraded transmission clutch system
• Custom dyno-tuned engine calibration
• Hennessey Warranty
• Maximum Horsepower: approx 800

Other Upgrades:
• Hennessey CarbonAero body upgrade
• Hennessey Monoblock wheels
• Michelin Pilot Super Sport Tires
• Hennessey custom interior upgrades including carbon fiber, Alcantara and leathers

Hennessey Performance HPE800 McLaren MP4-12C Tuning Gallery

The new HPE800 Hennessey Performance McLaren MP4-12C Tuning Program

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The new HPE800 Hennessey Performance McLaren MP4-12C Tuning Program

[Source: Hennessey Performance]

What do you think of the HPE800 MP4-12C tuning program? Leave a comment and let us know!

Sometimes people have some much money that they don’t know what to do with it. Yes, it’s a problem that we’d all love to have, but when it’s coupled with poor taste, the results can be horrifying.

Take this eye-catching red and gold Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren. It cost a pretty penny due to the fact that it features 24-karat gold trimmings, a “unique” body kit, and 999 bhp. Named the Anliker McLaren SLR 999 Red Gold Dream, the SLR was created by Swiss businessman Ueli Anliker. The car took over 30,000 hours to complete and Anliker spent over £ 3.5 million on its construction.

The SLR 999 Red Gold Dream appeared at Tuning World 2009 and has become somewhat of an internet sensation because of its outlandish appearance. Now, Anliker is reportedly asking for $10.8 million (€8.2 million/ £7 million) for those interested in purchasing the one-of-a-kind model.

Any takers?

SLR 999 Red Gold Dream Gallery

SLR 999 Red Gold Dream

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SLR 999 Red Gold Dream

SLR 999 Red Gold Dream Video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RyahDQUnGBg

Is this the ugliest supercar ever made? Leave a comment and let us know!

The Porsche 911 GT2 RS and McLaren MP4-12C are two of the newest super cars that utilize twin-turbochargers to increase output to otherworldly power figures. Jeremy Clarkson of Top Gear, every automotive enthusiast’s favorite television show, decided to take the two out for a drag race to see who was the fastest.

The Porsche 911 GT2 RS is the most extreme and most powerful version of the 911. It is powered by a 3.6-liter, twin-turbocharged flat-six engine with 620 horsepower and 516 lb-ft. of torque. The 911 weighs in at a mere 3,021 lbs., can accelerate to 62 mph in 3.5 seconds, and lapped the infamous Nürburgring in just 7:18.

The McLaren MP4-12C on the other hand, is quite similar. Although it is not some kind of stripped-down, performance special, it is definitely a super car with similar figures. The British super car is powered by a 3.8-liter, twin-turbocharged V-8 engine with592 bhp and 443 lb-ft. of torque. While output is down compared to the 911, it can accelerate to 62 mph in 3.1 seconds and blast through the 1/4 –mile in 10.9 seconds at 134 mph.

Clarkson got behind the wheel of the British supercar for a real McLaren MP4-12C vs Porsche 911 GT2 RS drag race battle. Watch the video to see who wins!

McLaren MP4-12C vs Porsche 911 GT2 RS Video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ZUigKzufrk

[Source: Top Gear, JMLatvalaFan2 YouTube Channel]

Who did you think would win the super car battle between the McLaren and Porsche? Leave a comment and let us know!

Thirty years ago Gemballa GmbH was founded by Uwe Gemballa with the goal of providing aftermarket parts and tuning for Porsche models. After the company went through some turbulent times in 2010, it was closed then reopened by CEO Andreas Schwarz and investor Steffen Korbach. Now, another chapter in the history of Gemballa is beginning with the introduction of a new racing team.

The new Gemballa Racing team is owned by Gemballa investor, Steffen Korbach. To head the team, Korbach hired Sascha Bert, decorated racing driver and instructor. Bert brings with him a wealth of knowledge and success in racing, as a German Kart Champion, Nürburgring VLN 24-hour podium winner, and Formula 3 and FIA GT driver. Korbach is confident in Bert’s racing pedigree “Sascha Bert is an absolute pro, and is ideally qualified to manage our new racing team.”

Gemballa Racing will begin the 2012 season with two new McLaren MP4-12C GT3 racecars wearing a blue and black livery. The MP4-12C GT3 was chosen because of McLaren’s racing success, performance, and reliability.

“We chose the McLaren MP4-12C GT3 because we think this car has the potential to be one of the season’s leaders,” explained Korbach. “We have also put together a team of drivers and mechanics who are proven winners. Racing is in our blood! We want to win!”

Each Gemballa Racing McLaren MP4-12C GT3 will be powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter V-8 engine mated to a custom racing transmission. The GT3 cars will feature a racing front splitter, carbon safety shell, fixed rear wing, optimized air vents, a rear diffuser, and Formula 1-style integrated display on the steering wheel.

The Gemballa Racing team will participate in the upcoming 2012 racing season.

Gemballa Racing McLaren MP4-12C GT3 Gallery

Gemballa Racing McLaren MP4-12C GT3

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Gemballa Racing McLaren MP4-12C GT3

[Source: Gemballa Racing SE]

What do you think of the new Gemballa Racing MP4-12C GT3 racecars? Leave a comment and let us know!

The collaboration between Mercedes-Benz and McLaren brought us a Grand Touring supercar that will go down in history as a classic. The Mercedes McLaren SLR was once one of the most expensive and exclusive cars in the world, fetching high six-figure prices. The luxury car tuners at wheelsandmore have taken one customer’s SLR to the next level of performance with a powerful McLaren tuning program.

Nicknamed the “SLR 707 Edition” for its total output, the wheelsandmore SLR guarantees that the GT keeps up with the modern supercars of today. With a stock 617 horsepower and 580 lb-ft. of torque, the Mercedes-Benz McLaren SLR is by no means a slouch. But, with the ultra-high performance cars of today reaching 60 mph in the low three-second range and breaking 200 mph without a sweat, the SLR is becoming technologically trumped. So, wheelsandmore tuned the 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 with a remapped ECU and larger supercharger pulley. The new upgrades push output to 707 horses and 675 lb-ft. of torque, sending the SLR to 62 mph in just 3.5 seconds.

Although the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is a Grand Tourer, it is still a supercar, which is why wheelsandmore focused on upgrading the suspension, wheels, and tires to handle the added performance. Working alongside the suspension specialists at KW Automotive, new race-approved coilovers with aluminum alloy damper housings, and adjustable rebound and compression were developed and installed for more dynamic handling properties. New lightweight wheelsandmore 6Sporz² 9 x 20 front and 11.5 x 20 rear wheels were installed. The wheels feature a carbon fiber-look outer rim with red highlights and are fitted with 255/30/20 and 305/25/20 Dunlop Sportmaxx tires.

Inside, the SLR was outfitted with a carbon fiber center console and AMG steering wheel shift paddles as specified by the customer.

The Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 707 Edition by wheelsandmore was a special customer build. wheelsandmore does offer custom SLR upgrades for owners of the supercar. Pricing has not been released.

wheelsandmore Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 707 Edition Specifications

Engine:
Displacement: 5.4 liters
Number of Cylinders: V-8
Aspiration: Supercharged
Maximum Horsepower: 707
Maximum Torque: 675 lb-ft. (915 Nm)
-Retuned ECU
-Larger supercharger pulley

Transmission:
Type: Five-speed automatic
Drive: Rear-wheel

Performance:
Acceleration 0-62 mph: 3.5 seconds

Wheels, Tires, and Suspension:
Wheels: 6Sporz² lightweight multi-piece with carbon fiber outer rim and red highlights
Front Wheels: 9.0 x 20
Rear Wheels: 11.5 x 20
Tires: Dunlop Sportmaxx
Front Tires: 255/30/20
Rear Tires: 305/25/20
Suspension: KW Automotive aluminum coilover with adjustable compression and rebound

Interior:
-Carbon fiber AMG steering wheel and shift paddles
-Carbon fiber center console

wheelsandmore Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 707 Edition Gallery

wheelsandmore Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 707 Edition

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wheelsandmore Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 707 Edition

[Source: wheelsandmore]

Do you think the wheelsandmore Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 707 Edition can still compete with modern supercars? Leave a comment and let us know!

On April 22nd, 2011, RENNtech Inc. set a world record for the fastest Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren at Palm Beach International Raceway with a 10.439-second at 133.04 mph quarter-mile time.

For those that aren’t familiar with the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren, it is a super car that was joint-developed by Mercedes-Benz and McLaren, and was inspired by the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR. Under the hood is a hand-built 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 engine that produced a maximum 13 PSI of boost, 617 horsepower at 6,500 RPM, and 580 lb-ft. from 3,250 – 5,000 RPM.

RENNtech has modified the SLR to crank out 770 horsepower with a host of in-house products. To achieve such a fast quarter-mile time engineers installed a RENNtech modified supercharger pulley, retuned the ECU, a new RENNtech transmission cooler upgrade, RENNtech sport exhaust, new heat exchangers, a larger intercooler pump, and Hoosier drag radial tires.

Packed with 770 ponies, RENNtech headed out to the track to break their own world record. The first run yielded a 10.29-second at 134 mph quarter-mile time, setting a new world record. The second run resulted in another 10.29-second at 134 mph quarter-mile time, supporting the fact that it is the world’s fastest SLR McLaren.

Check out the video for both runs and in-car footage of the RENNtech SLR World Record!

RENNtech SLR World Record Drag Race Video

[Source: RENNtech Inc.]

Do you think the RENNtech SLR can go any faster and set a new world record again? Leave a comment and let us know!

The new McLaren MP4-12C is one of the newest super cars to take the world by storm. Powered by a 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged V-8, it can accelerate to 62 mph in 3.1 seconds, blast through the 1/4-mile in 10.9 seconds at 134 mph, and reach a top speed of over 200 mph. But, how does it compare to the car that started it all – the McLaren F1?

Autocar’s Steve Sutcliffe takes both cars out to the track for a McLaren vs McLaren video battle. So who will win: the 592 bhp McLaren MP4-12C or the 600 hp McLaren F1? Watch and see!

McLaren MP4-12C vs McLaren F1 Video

[Source: Autocar Youtube Channel]

What car would you rather take to the track: the McLaren MP4-12C or the F1? Leave a comment and let us know!

The Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is a shining example of British and German engineering. The 722 Edition is even more so, getting its name from the 7:22 am start time of the 1955 Mille Miglia, in which British drivers Stirling Moss and Denis Jenkinson drove their Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR to victory. This “722” by edo competition Motorsport has added a new meaning – 722 horsepower!

The “Black Arrow” nickname was given to this SLR 722 because it is “Black as night and fast as an arrow…” The exterior is covered in a new coat of flat black paint contrasted by red “722” decals on the doors and hood. Red striping is also found streaming back from the headlights and from the fender vents. Rounding off the exterior looks is a set of black 21-inch multi-piece edo competition race wheels wearing Hankook Ventus S1 Evo high-performance tires.

But there’s more to this edo SLR Black Arrow than a matte paintjob and race wheels. That notorious “722” name now also refers to the amount of horsepower packed under the hood. To start, the supercharger that force feeds the 5.4-liter V-8 has been modified with a new drive ratio. New exhaust headers, high-performance catalytic converters, stainless steel exhaust, air filters, and a revised intake system were installed to reduce backpressure and improve responsiveness. Engineers used a dynometer to retune the ECU with new mapping, resulting in a total of 722 horsepower at 7,100 RPM and 656 lb-ft. (890 Nm) of torque.

The added power helps launch the SLR McLaren like a “Black Arrow.” The 62 mph sprint takes just 3.4 seconds, while 186 mph is broken in only 24.5 seconds. The top speed has also increased to an electronically limited 214 mph.

edo competition Motorsports also developed a new interior package for the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren. New bucket seats have been fitted and are furnished in a soft combination of leather and alcantara. The new steering wheel also features new paddle shifters for a sportier driving experience, while the dashboard, center console, and door panels are equipped with new carbon fiber trim pieces. edo competition has also installed a new custom sound system with iPod integration, and a center console-mounted screen that features a rear-view camera system. Occupants can also watch TV on the screen, and yes, that is Dragon Ball Z on the TV system in our gallery.

Pricing for the edo competition Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 722 Black Arrow package and individual accessories have not been released. All upgrades and modifications are performed at the edo competition Motorsports GmbH headquarters in Ahlen, Germany.

edo competition Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 722 Black Arrow Specifications

Engine:
Displacement: 5.4 liters
Number of Cylinders: V-8
Aspiration: Supercharged
Maximum Horsepower: 722 at 7,100 RPM
Maximum Torque: 656 lb-ft. (890 Nm)
-Modified supercharger drive ratio
-Retuned ECU
-Stainless steel exhaust with high-performance catalytic converters
-Exhaust headers
-Revised intake system
-New air filters

Transmission:
Type: AMG SPEEDSHIFT R 5-speed automatic
Drive: Rear-wheel

Performance:
Acceleration 0-62 mph: 3.4 seconds
Acceleration 0-186 mph: 24.5 mph
Top Speed: 214 mph (345 km/h) electronically-limited

Exterior:
-Flat black paint
-Red “722” decals
-Red stripes
-21-inch multi-piece race wheels with Hankook Ventus S1 Evo high-performance tires

Interior:
-Bucket seats with leather and alcantara combination
-Carbon fiber center console trim
-Carbon fiber door trim
-Carbon fiber dashboard trim
-New steering wheel with paddle shifters
-Custom sound system with iPod integration
-Video console with TV, backup camera, and phone

edo competition Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 722 Black Arrow Gallery

edo competition Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 722 Black Arrow

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edo competition Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 722 Black Arrow

[Source: edo competition Motorsport GmbH]

What is your favorite part of the edo competition Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 722 Black Arrow? Leave a comment and let us know!

After a great deal of anticipation, McLaren Automotive has officially released the specifications for their newest model – the MP4-12C. With the new specifications, the new MP4-12C looks to shakeup the supercar world, taking down the likes of Ferrari, Porsche, and even Bugatti.

Now, you may be wondering how a car that costs a quarter of a Bugatti could possibly dethrone the reigning king of supercars. The new McLaren may not have the 253 mph top speed or the 1,001 horses as the Veyron but, it does have a number of technological innovations that give it the agility to greatly outmaneuver the Bugatti. A major focus throughout the development and design of the MP4-12C was keeping the overall weight to a minimum. To achieve this McLaren started out with a one-piece molded carbon chassis called the MonoCell. Weighing in at only 165 lbs., the MonoCell is a lightweight, spacious, and inexpensive chassis that provided the basis for supercar performance. The suspension was also innovative, with the design being based on a double-wishbone with coil-spring design. However, it does not employ anti-roll bars or a differential, instead using the state-of-the-art ProActive Chassis Control. The system uses adaptive damping to alter the suspension stiffness, allowing drivers to achieve precise handling on the track or a smooth executive sedan-like ride.

The McLaren MP4-12C also comes equipped with new features that make it a star on the racetrack. The new McLaren Airbrake used on the MP4-12C is a variation of the same technology that McLaren used in 1997 for their MP4-12 racecar. The technology was banned in Formula 1 racing because of the immense performance advantage it provided. The same rules thankfully don’t apply to production vehicles. The Airbrake uses the rear spoiler to create additional downforce and drag under braking at high speeds to reduce stopping distance. At speeds above 59 mph, the Airbrake is positioned at a 32-degree angle. Under braking, the Airbrake angle is increased, thus creating a sensation as if the car was being pulled from behind. McLaren also uses new Brake Steer technology to improve handling. The system is similar to that of a torque-vectoring differential, but is 44 lbs. lighter. The system applies braking force to the inside rear wheel, lending to more neutral handling and reduced understeer.

The wheels and brakes were also designed for performance using lightweight technology. The wheel size was selected for optimal handling, measuring 8.5J x 19 up front and 11J x 20 at the rear. A 19-inch diameter was selected for the front wheels to allow for greater sidewall height, ensuring improved impact isolation and aerodynamics. The standard tires on the MP4-12C are 235/35 R19 front and 305/30 R20 rear Pirelli PZeros. For customers looking to achieve maximum performance, McLaren also offers PZero Corsa “Sport” tires that provide greater grip in dry conditions. A lightweight forged aluminum bell and cast iron brake system is standard, weighing 17.6 lbs. less than a conventional cast iron setup. The lightweight system works with the Airbrake to decelerate from 62 mph to a standstill in only 100 feet, and from 124 mph in just 403 feet. Optional Ceramic Composite Matrix brakes provide even greater braking performance and further shed weight.

The most exciting aspect of the McLaren MP4-12C is the drivetrain. While it is not as powerful as other supercars, it provides blistering acceleration and lightning-fast shift times. Mounted behind the cockpit, the 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged V-8 designed by McLaren weighs in at only 439 lbs. and sits low inside the chassis thanks to a dry-sump lubrication system and flat-plane crankshaft. The lightweight V-8, code-named the M838T, produces 592 brake horsepower at 7,000 RPM and 443 lb-ft. of torque from 3,000 to 7,000 RPM, and redlines at 8,500 RPM. The M838T is mated to a SSG dual-clutch seven-speed transmission, operated via steering wheel paddles. The SSG transmission features a “Pre-Cog” function where drivers can pre-load the clutch and shift gears almost instantaneously. When the driver presses and holds the left paddle, the transmission will match the engine speed to the lowest gear to provide optimal acceleration when exiting corners. Together, the engine and transmission work to achieve an impressive 24.2 mpg (UK) and 279g/km of CO2 emissions.

Performance figures for the McLaren MP4-12C are groundbreaking. Due to the lightweight construction, the supercar achieves a high 455 bhp/ton power-to-weight ratio. Acceleration is superb, 62 mph is reached from a rest in only 3.3 seconds, and 124 mph in just 9.1 seconds. Both figures drop to 3.1- and 8.9-seconds respectively with the Pirelli PZero Corsa tire upgrade. The MP4-12C also blasts through the quarter-mile in 10.9 seconds at 134 mph. Top speed is just over the 200-mark at 205 mph.

Pricing for the 2012 McLaren MP4-12C will begin at $229,000 in the United States market and officially go on sale in the late summer of 2011. For the British market, the MP4-12C will retail for £168,500.

MCLAREN MP4-12C SPECIFICATIONS

Engine:
Displacement: 3.8 liters
Number of Cylinders: V-8
Aspiration: Twin-turbocharged
Engine Material: Aluminum block and cylinder heads
Oiling: Dry sump
Compression Ratio: 8.7:1
Valvetrain: 32-valve, DOHC, dual VVT
Redline (RPM): 8,500 RPM
Bore x Stroke (mm): 93 x 69.9
Maximum Horsepower: 592 bhp at 7,000 RPM
Maximum Torque: 443 lb-ft. from 3,000 to 7,000 RPM

Transmission:
Type: SSG dual-clutch seven-speed
Drive: Rear-wheel

Performance:
Acceleration 0-62 mph: 3.3 seconds (3.1s w/Corsa tires)
Acceleration 0-124 mph: 9.1 seconds (8.9s w/Corsa tires)
Quarter Mile Acceleration: 10.9 seconds at 134 mph
Top Speed: 205 mph
Power to Weight Ratio (with lightweight options): 455 bhp/ton
Braking 62-0 mph: 100 feet
Braking 124-0 mph: 403 feet

Efficiency:
CO2 Emissions: 279 g/km
Fuel Consumption (combined): 24.2 mpg (UK)

Body and Chassis:
Wheelbase: 2670 mm
Track (F/R): 1656 mm / 1583 mm
Length: 4507 mm
Width: 1909 mm
Height: 1199 mm
DIN Weight: 3161 lbs.
Dry Weight: 2945 lbs.
Dry Weight with Lightweight Options: 2868 lbs.
Weight Distribution at DIN (F/R): 42.5/57.5
Active Aerodynamics: McLaren Airbrake
Suspension: ProActive Chassis Control
ProActive Chassis Control Modes: Winter / Normal / Sport / Track
Powertrain Modes: Winter / Normal / Sport / Track
Brakes: Cast iron discs with forged aluminum hubs
Wheel Sizes (F/R): 19” x 8.5”J / 20” x 11” J
Tires (F/R): Pirelli PZero 235/35 R19 / 305/30 R20

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xt2mfImKDP8

MCLAREN MP4-12C GALLERY

McLaren MP4-12C

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[Source: McLaren Automotive]

Do you think the MP4-12C will be crowned “King of the Supercars”? Is it a worthy successor to the McLaren F1? Leave a comment and let us know!