HE SIGHT ALONE is enough to elicit involuntary laughter. Then there is that central driving position, so mad in theory
F1, P1, Senna. All on the same slice of tarmac, dihedral doors but so effective in practice. It needs zero acclimatisation,
flipped up. They have been together before, most notably and for it feels natural at once. I’m glad it’s coming back on the
recently at the Goodwood Members Meeting, but never for Speedtail. Visibility all round is sensational, the antithesis
a purpose like this. We have them and this track for the day, of the Lamborghini letterbox approach to cockpit design.
including its near three-kilometre runway. They are ours. Confidence grows.
Despite the P1 being worth around $10 million (it’s a The V12 is smooth, the gearbox on this 94,000km car loose
prototype and the most filmed and famous P1 in existence) and easy to operate. So, because there is time, I can tootle
and the F1 valued at five times more than that, no-one is about for a bit. My goodness it rides well. No anti-roll bars here
saying ‘don’t go there, don’t do that’ with any of them. McLaren (or‘anti-traction devices’ as they used to be called at McLaren).
people are everywhere, appearing more than anything else The unassisted steering communicates like that of a Lotus, and
pleased that we’ve been able to make this thing happen. no wonder – there are Exiges that weigh more than this.
So, at the risk of repeating myself: F1, P1, Senna. Which And then you can resist no longer; pausing only to remind
would you take first? If I didn’t have a story to write afterwards, yourself this is 468kW in 1164kg of car and that it has no safety
I’d have left the F1 until last. Of course you would. It’s a systems of any kind at all, you give it the boot. Which is when
McLaren F1 for goodness sake, and the number of those part of you that somehow and stupidly filed this car under
in anything approaching regular use in the world can be ‘nice old thing’ loses all comprehension of what happens next;
counted on the fingers of one hand, probably without needing it will only be regained when you remember the old dear has
the thumb. But it’s the benchmark, the inspiration, the one a better power to weight ratio than a Bugatti Veyron. Really. In
without which the others might have existed but surely not as the cockpit all your limbs are busy changing gear and holding it
they are. It is the origin; it has to go first. straight. By the time you feel you can afford to glance down, an
It seems hardly believable that the car is 25 years old, but insane number is already on the speedometer, like 250km/h.
➜
the truth is that age manifests itself in primarily positive ways: Then something else happens. Or, more accurately, doesn’t
BELOW the car’s compactness, its manual gearbox, analogue dials, happen. The rate of acceleration scarcely slows, because
Frankel looks normally aspirated engine and so on. For those of us who love the F1 has no drag compared to modern cars whose bodies
suitably excited the simple business of driving, the transition of such one- generate downforce. Out of deference to its age and value, I
as he awaits the
ultimate McLaren time staples from rule to exception is not something that is didn’t press on much further, but this very car once did over
triple test necessarily to be celebrated. 385km/h, which is way faster than either of its younger, far
more powerful descendants can manage.
But while the F1 feels utterly mighty in a straight line,
around the rest of the lap the years start to show. This is by
no means all bad news because on new Michelins (the only
components on the car not to period spec because the original
Goodyears are no longer available), the car has surprisingly
good grip and a nice balance near the limit. But I don’t want
to throw it around and that has nothing to do with its value.
F1s tended not to react brilliantly when pushed further than
they cared to go and I’m very happy to leave that aspect of its
character unexplored. But there’s no avoiding the brakes, and
by both modern standards and those of any car with this level
of performance they are, frankly, terrible.
What will the P1 feel like after that? There’s so much about
it that seems less, well, good. It has a small turbo V8, not an
enormous atmospheric V12. You shift gears via paddles, not
a lever. You can only get two people on board and there’s not
much room for luggage. Yes, it’s far more powerful thanks to
its hybrid-assisted 673kW engine, but that very system also
makes it heavier – 300-odd kilograms heavier. When it came
out alongside the LaFerrari and Porsche 918, hybrids were
a novelty, so much so in cars like this that a new term was
coined that was never applied to the F1 in period: these were
‘hypercars’. But is it really such a leap?
Well, in a word, yes. For the avoidance of doubt, I’d have the
F1 powertrain over the P1 equivalent every day of the week,
month and year, but that doesn’t make the P1 less than one hell
of a car, and capable in ways the F1 simply could not imagine.
But let’s look first at what they share, beyond a badge, all-
carbon construction and very funky doors. The curious thing
d motorofficial f motor_ mag 101
BY THE TIME YOU FEEL YOU CAN AFFORD TO
GLANCE DOWN, AN INSANE NUMBER IS ALREADY
ON THE SPEEDOMETER, LIKE 250KM/H
is that, despite the 20 years that separate them and the fact the stoppers. Try that in the F1 and you would be in the trees.
very few of the people who worked on the F1 were still around ➜ It has massively more grip, yet despite that the limit is not
in Woking to work on the P1, they still feel related. And it’s something to be carefully skirted as you would in the F1, it’s
that sense of light and space in the cabin that does it. This is ABOVE a place to seek out and enjoy. With proper downforce, active
a massively more complex car, bristling with driving modes Wingless F1 is nicely aero, (relatively) modern tyres and one of the world’s most
balanced, but is no
for the powertrain and chassis, push-to-pass power boost and sophisticated suspension systems, the P1 is actually a far
match on the track for
DRS buttons, but it still manages to make you feel at home. the stunning Senna easier and more accessible car to drive fast than the F1, and
The difference is that here the chassis is no longer cast in with all its race-style that fact stands as a powerful riposte to the many and varied
a supporting role to the engine; they get equal billing and aero tricks, including a ways in which the older car proves that not all progress is
double diffuser
provide a double act of what, even today, is rare ability. The always in the right direction.
P1 actually feels quicker in a straight line than the F1 because But it is the Senna that shows how McLaren hypercar
the hybrid system fills in all the holes in the torque curve, philosophy has evolved over a quarter of a century. The F1
providing turbocharged shove with zero lag. It doesn’t sound was a pure road car and always intended as such. The P1 is
beautiful like the F1 – in fact it sounds quite ugly – but it a finely judged balance between road and track and uses its
somehow fits the maniacal rate at which it gathers speed. suspension to prove itself very plausible in both environments.
But while you’re conservative with the F1’s entry speed into But the Senna? I once spent a long day on the road in one and
corners and downright cautious with its brakes, you can treat it was thrilling, but so too was it hard. Really hard. The car
the P1 almost like a racing car. You can brake from 300km/h, is noisy and uncomfortable. You never know what reaction
feel the carbon brakes shed 150km/h like they’re shrugging you’re going to get when you nail the throttle because you’ll
off a coat and then fling it into a corner while still hard on almost always instantly trigger a traction control system so
102 january 2020 whichcar.com.au/motor
F1 1995
Formula 1 racecar
designer Gordon
Murray had already
masterminded three
World F1 Drivers
Championships when
he convinced McLaren
boss Ron Dennis to
build his innovative
three-seat supercar.
With the world’s first
cabonfibre chassis and
a big V12 engine, it was
both light and powerful,
and set a new speed
record that stood for
seven years.
P1 2012
Limited to an initial
production run of just
375 units – which sold
out in a month – the P1
utilises hybrid power
but ditches the F1’s
novel three-seat layout
for a conventional
two-seat arrangement.
Used McLaren’s own
3.8-litre twin-turbo V8,
which was enhanced by
an electric motor. The
car features Formula
1 technology such as
KERS, ‘push to pass’
and DRS.
SENNA 2019
b
h
The third member of f
hd
McLaren’s ‘Ultimate
Series’ line was named
after Brazilian driver
Ayrton Senna, who won
his three world titles
driving for McLaren. As
such, the 720S-based
car was designed
primarily for the track
(while remaining road
legal). It is 176kg
lighter than the P1 and
employs aggressive
active aerodynamics to
generate some 800kg
of downforce.
103
YOU CAN BRAKE FROM 300KM/H AND FEEL
THE CARBON BRAKES SHED 150KM/H LIKE
THEY’RE SHRUGGING OFF A COAT
The Specs
McLAREN F1 McLAREN P1 McLAREN SENNA
BODY 2-door, 3-seat coupe 2-door, 2-seat coupe 2-door, 2-seat coupe
DRIVE rear-wheel rear-wheel rear-wheel
L/W/H 4288/1820/1140mm 4588/1946/1188mm 4744/2153/1229mm
ENGINE 6064cc V12, DOHC, 48v 3799cc V8, DOHC, 32v, twin turbos + electric 3994cc V8, DOHC, 32v, twin turbos
POWER 468kW @ 7500rpm 673kW @ 7300rpm 597kW @ 7250rpm
TORQUE 617Nm @ 5000rpm 900Nm @ 4000rpm 800Nm @ 5500rpm
GEARBOX 6-speed manual 7-speed dual-clutch 7-speed dual-clutch
KERB WEIGHT 1164kg 1490kg 1314kg
POWER/WEIGHT 402kW/tonne 452kW/tonne 447kW/tonne
0-100KM/H 3.2sec 2.8sec 3.1sec
TOP SPEED 386km/h 350km/h (limited) 335km/h (redline limited)
PRICE One recently went for $28m. Seriously. AUD$3m (estimate) AUD$1.6m (approx)
104 january 2020 whichcar.com.au/motor
sophisticated all you usually notice is a reduction in engine in a different world even to that inhabited by the P1. In the
➜ power. You can of course turn it off, but get ready to get busy if slow stuff, when it can only rely on mechanical grip, there
you do. More than anything, the Senna feels like a caged beast is understeer that needs a degree of management. Happily,
ABOVE on the road because, unlike the others here, unless you’re being closer in weight to the F1 than the P1 and more
F1’s signature gold- driving it as fast as you can there’s not much point being on chuckable than either, there’s much fun to be had sorting it
lined engine bay
houses the compact board. And you can’t do that in public. out. And it is utterly viceless.
BMW Motorsport-built But on the track? Oh my goodness. The Senna is so good, it I don’t much like ‘horses for courses’ verdicts, but it seems
atmo 6.0-litre V12, actually makes the P1 feel, if not actually clumsy, then certainly iniquitous to come up with a 1-2-3 order for these cars,
which drives through its age. It feels like a racing car, or as much like a racing car as separated as they are not just in time but concept too. While
a purpose-made
transverse gearbox a street-legal tyre will permit in 2019. Its composure in quick the F1 is entirely established as perhaps the automotive icon of
corners is utterly unlike any other road car I’ve driven. Its the last generation, neither the Senna nor even the P1 have yet
precision, speed and feel at big speeds is simply sublime. had time to find their place in history, but the progression from
If the Senna has a problem, it is only that the car is so much road car to track car is clear. How interesting then that the next
better than its Pirelli Trofeo R tyres, which are themselves car in the Ultimate Series is the Speedtail, a car billed as more
state of the art. In high-speed corners, when there’s 800kg luxurious and road-oriented even than the F1. So it seems the
of downforce nailing the car to the road, it’s mesmerising, circle will be complete.
d motorofficial f motor_ mag 105
M BUYINGAMODERNCLASSIC
WORSHIPPING THE DEPRECIATION GODS
997911
PORSCHE
YOU MIGHT BE JUSTIFIABLY TEMPTED BY A CHEAP 997 – BUT EVEN
A SMART-LOOKING EXAMPLE CAN HIDE NASTY SURPRISES
106 january 2020 whichcar.com.au/motor
’04 WHEN IT COMES to buying a Porsche, a budget of $50,000
gives you a surprising array of choice. You could go for
something retro, such as a 944 Turbo or 968, or opt for one
of the myriad modern options – Boxster, Cayman, Cayenne
or maybe even an early Panamera. Many buyers, however,
will make a predictable beeline for the fabled rear-engined
TO
’12 911. In particular, the 996 generation represents a particularly
affordable way into full-fat Porsche ownership. That said,
even the youngest 996 is now 15 years old. Aside from age-
related wear and tear, some may find a 911 of that era dated
and not to their liking.
Fortunately, early examples of the subsequent 997 series –
PORSCHE 911 which is more modern, refined and capable – now often cost
997 SERIES around the same as immaculate late 996s. Highly rated by
choice of good this very tome, the 997 series won our 2005 Performance Car
ones from $70K of the Year, so you can bet it's a fairly scintillating gadget to
drive. Aim for an early Carrera or Carrera S coupe – the 2005
PCOTY-winning variant – as focused on here, and you could
end up with a gratifying and reliable sports car. Pick poorly,
though, and costs could spiral. Here’s what to look out for.
ENGINE Carreras were fitted with
PORSCHE a 3.6-litre engine, while Carrera S
variants received a more powerful
911 3.8-litre engine. Intermediate main-
shaft bearing issues can be a problem
with engines prior to late 2006,
but those can often be resolved for
around $3000. Of more concern is bore scoring on bank
two in the M97-code 3.8. If a car is knocking, or the left-hand
tailpipe is blackened, expect a big bill. A rebore, sleeve and
rebuild costs around $8000. When buying a car, it’s really
important to have a pre-purchase inspection, as it can save as
much as $20,000 in the long run. An inspection by the NRMA,
RACV or similar costs as little as a couple of hundred dollars,
but a more detailed one with a borescope inspection will cost
more. You also want to inspect the condition of the front and
rear coolant pipes, as replacing them is expensive.
GEARBOX Early 997s were offered with a six-speed
manual or a five-speed ‘Tiptronic’ automatic. Second-gear
synchros can wear out but it's not common and beyond
that, they are fairly bulletproof. Clutches will generally last
d motorofficial f motor_ mag 107
M BUYING A MODERN CLASSIC
THINGS
YOU NEED PORSCHE 997 911 CARRERA
TO KNOW BODY 2 doors, 2 seats
ENGINE 3596cc flat-6, DOHC, 24v
1. SERVICING POWER 239kW @ 6800rpm
Servicing can cost TORQUE 370Nm @ 4250rpm
as little as a few TRANSMISSION 6-speed manual
hundred dollars, or USED RANGE $70,000 to $120,000
considerably more if
the clutch or dampers
need replacing.
2. ONCE OVER
An annual service
generally keeps the
cars in good order,
but an in-depth pre-
purchase inspection is
highly recommended.
3. FAULTS
Common faults include
bore scoring in bank
two on 3.8-litre
models and the media
system. Cars this
age may also be due
for dampers, clutch
and flywheel.
IF A 3.8 IS KNOCKING, OR THE LEFT-HAND
TAILPIPE IS BLACKENED, EXPECT A BIG BILL
➜
03
OTHER BMW M6 ASTON V8 VANTAGE AUDI R8 V8
The first mid-engined sports car from Audi
Something of a bargain these days, with
Still looks fresh – because it’s only just left
OPTIONS prices starting from as low as $40K, the high- production, after debuting in 2005. V8 grew from – based on the Lamborghini Gallardo – was
YOU MAY performance version of the 6 Series was powered 4.3 litres to 4.7, with other worthwhile tweaks introduced in Australia in 2008 and has high
retained values. Even an early 'entry level'
by a 5.0-litre V10 engine from 2005-2010,
CONSIDER connected to a 7-speed dual-clutch auto only. coming in 2008. Coupes start from around $70K 4.2-litre V8 model will cost at least $115K.
for an early model.
108 january 2020 whichcar.com.au/motor
01 02
03 04
up to 100,000km and will cost around $2000 to replace. main issues being leaks from the rack and play in the ball
When the second clutch is due, you will also need a new joints. Check for good-quality tyres with even wear too. An
flywheel – adding some $1000 to the bill. The Tiptronics alignment is recommended when you change the tyres or
are generally reliable. A gearbox fluid change is recommended every couple of years (because) it can get knocked out and
if it’s not been done in its life. It’s about $500 for a fluid and ONE Porsche's wear the tyres prematurely.
classic flat-six
filter change. engines are generally INTERIOR & TRIM The interior is a hard-wearing affair, so just
SUSPENSION A lot of the 3.8-litre models are fitted with dependable, but the check for any obvious damage and make sure the cabin is dry
Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM). The 3.8 in the 997 is prone and clean. However, there is one major thing to look out for:
dampers cost about $1000 apiece – they don’t fail often, but to bore scoring the functionality of the Porsche Communication Management
on a car that’s 10-15 years old, they will often need replacing. TWO Galvanised (PCM) media system. If the display is faulty, be wary. They
An issue here will be indicated by the failed damper defaulting steel bodywork means can be repaired, but finding someone to do it properly can be
to its stiffest setting, making the suspension excessively hard. that your prospective difficult and extremely costly. You can fit an aftermarket head
Otherwise, just listen out for any odd noises or issues. All the purchase will almost unit, which is probably the best thing to do – the original sat-
certainly be rust-free
components are good quality and last at least 100,000km and nav system is rubbish and out of date.
10-15 years. THREE Cars fitted IMPROVING THE BREED It's possible to modify
BODY & STRUCTURE The bodywork of the 997 is galvanised, with Sport Chrono the silencers, or fit aftermarket silencers, just to get a nicer
so corrosion-related issues are rare. You might get stonechips package get this noise. It might not make it go any quicker, but it will sound
curious analogue clock
on the front wheelarches, but it’s not an expensive job to have that displays lap or better and subliminally feel faster. Don’t feel inclined to opt
the corrosion removed and the bodywork generally sorted by other driving times, for a remap, though. It’s a naturally aspirated car; there’s much
a professional. If you do encounter one with corrosion or paint total driving time, lap point mapping it, as you could spend a lot of money for very
issues, then it’s likely it has been poorly repaired previously. distance, lap number, little gain.
In any case, get a comprehensive history check. Aside from and recorded lap times It’s a similar story of only making gentle modifications on
peace of mind, it will help you avoid buying an accident- FOUR Carrera and the chassis front. Porsche got the suspension just about right.
damaged car. Don’t be deceived by a gleaming example, Carrera S models Some people like to lower them by 20mm, but not much
either, as the cars can often look beautiful but still be in need are rear-wheel drive; lower than that; it’s the same as the original Sports suspension
of considerable work under the skin. the all-wheel drive option and the car does handle better.
versions are called
BRAKES & STEERING The brakes are prone to corrosion – Carrera 4 and However, a short-shift kit is one of the more affordable
997s often get washed, put in the garage and not dried off. Carrera 4S (about $300 for a bolt-in kit) upgrades and, as owners have
Cars that are stood suffer from the same; moisture builds up reported, gives a better and more sporting feel when you’re
and corrodes the inside of the disc. If all four corners need driving. And don’t overlook a proper service and alignment.
refreshing, expect to spend around $2000. Fresh fluids and filters, along with properly tracked and high-
Problems are similarly few on the steering front, with the quality tyres can also make a world of difference.
d motorofficial f motor_ mag 109
M BACKSECTION.TECHTALK
48V ELECTRICS
The rise of 48V
electrical systems
It may not sound like it, but
48-volt technology is one
of the smartest innovations
coming to the world of cars
IT’S RELATIVELY cheap and fits into existing vehicle
architectures, but is only just coming of age. As well as
providing a hybrid drive, the 48-volt electrical systems
emerging around the world can handle loads of tasks that
need doing around the car but previously used energy
created by burning fuel.
While 48 might look like a figure plucked out of the air
after a brainstorming session in the bar, there are good
reasons for it. The first is that it’s classified as low voltage
and safe. Anything above 60 volts in a car is deemed a
high-voltage system – and a high-voltage system is a lot
more expensive than a low-voltage one. The safety systems,
power controllers and heavy cabling involved in a high-
voltage system all contribute to the high price, whether it’s
65V or 800V.
Power (watts) derives from the voltage and the current
(amperage). Increase either and the wattage goes up. But
increasing amperage requires the use of larger, heavier,
more expensive cables to reduce electrical resistance,
whereas using a higher voltage and lower current doesn’t.
A 48V battery is small and relatively inexpensive, and ➜
installation is straightforward because a 48V electrical POWERING SMARTER SUSPENSION
architecture sits alongside the car’s original 12V system. The new Audi A8, for example, uses its 48-volt
The use of 48V architectures is on the rise because the electrics to power a predictive active suspension
electrical consumption of cars has gone up due to more system. The system can alter the ride height by up to
85mm in 0.5sec, reacts by monitoring the road surface
complex infotainment, connectivity and navigation systems ahead with a front-facing camera, reduces body roll by
and the dozens of driver assistance systems emerging. 40 per cent and consumes 10-200W, peaking at 6kW if
Cameras, radar, sensors and controllers plus the electronic there’s a sharp suspension movement.
systems to go with them all need more power than a 12V
system can deliver.
A 48V set-up also allows jobs normally done by the
THE USE OF 48-VOLT ARCHITECTURES IS ON THE RISE
BECAUSE THE ELECTRICAL CONSUMPTION OF CARS HAS GONE UP
engine – such as powering electric water pumps, air energy, rather than providing an electric-only mode like a
conditioning compressors, oil pumps and heating – to (high-power) full hybrid.
be offloaded to electrical power, saving fuel. Automatic Now, though, it looks as though that limit has been
gearboxes can function when engines are shut down thanks busted. Component supplier Continental recently announced
to electric oil pumps; auto stop-start becomes smoother a new 48V mild-hybrid drivetrain producing 30kW. The
and can kick in before the car comes to a halt, saving more improvement has been achieved by increasing the efficiency
fuel; and electric boosters in diesels reduce turbo lag. of the power control system and designing a high-efficiency,
There are limitations, though. Until now, the assumed water-cooled motor/generator. The increase in power means
maximum power of a low-voltage hybrid (or EV) motor/ it’s possible to drive short distances in electric-only mode like
generator has been around 12kW. That low power figure a full hybrid and makes the prospect of powering small city
has limited mild hybrids to boosting power and recovering cars and scooters using 48V systems even more realistic.
110 january 2020 whichcar.com.au/motor
BY J E SS E CR O SS E & M OTO R S TA F F
SCAVENGING LOST ENERGY
In the new Audi RS6, the 48-volt system comprises
a combined alternator/starter motor driven off the
crankshaft by rubber belt, feeding a small lithium-ion CLEVER COASTING
battery under the boot floor. The system can scavenge While the RS6’s 48-volt
➜
up to 8kW under braking and 12kW under acceleration. system is not powerful
It also powers a conventional, parallel 12-volt system enough for an EV mode, it
(battery in the boot) via a DC/DC converter. offers other clever tricks
to save fuel, like the ability
to coast for up to 40
seconds with the engine
shut off completely, at
speeds between 55 and
160km/h. Stop-start kicks
in as high as 22km/h. The
computer also reads GPS
data to determine when it
should be recuperating or
coasting. ➜
➜
MORE POWER,
LESS FUEL
The sole purpose of the
48-volt system in Audi’s new
RS6 and RS7 is efficiency.
It doesn’t offer any motor
boost under acceleration, nor
power active anti-roll bars
or ‘electric turbochargers’
like in other VAG products. MAKING CARS FASTER
The Porsche-derived twin- Performance-enhancing applications of 48-volt
turbo 4.0-litre V8 produces systems include mild ‘torque fill’ power boost
441kW/800Nm but uses just under acceleration (like in the AMG E53), active
11.6L/100km. The 48-volt ➜ swaybars that spookily remove all body roll in
system is said to save an heavy cars (like a Bentley Continental GT) and
average of 0.8L/100km. electric compressors that work to remove turbo
lag and improve response (like Audi’s SQ5). The
next Lamborghini Aventador is expected to use
a 48V mild-hybrid system.
d motorofficial f motor_ mag 111
M LONG TERMERS
01 . 2020 03 CARS REVIEWED WE TRY BEFORE YOU BUY
RELATIONSHIP GRAPH
LOVE
01
6162cc V8, MONTH THIS MONTH THIS MONTH
S/C, RWD, 17.5L/100KM 161KM
477kW/881Nm, TOTAL TOTAL
1710kg, $159,990 17.5L/100KM 13,618KM LOATH
CHEVROLET CAMARO ZL1 1 2 3 4 5 6 MONTH
WHEN THE GTS-R W1 sold out and it – those last-of-the-line serial numbers MAIN to the same grunt. Something like our
signalled the Commodore's time at were pretty important too. But a Last year's MY19 newest long-termer, the Camaro ZL1.
update replaced the
HSV was up, it revealed something GM-bred LS9 engine bolted into a rear- rectangular rear lights What's a ZL1? Simply put, it's the
remarkable about Aussie buying habits. driver guaranteed a lot of appeal. with these stove-plate most powerful and fastest Camaro sold
Specifically, we'd hand over significant So it seemed good sense that when sets. We're not fans in the United States. It relies on an LT4
sums of cash ($169K) when an HSV is HSV secured the rights to re-engineer V8 for firepower, a 6.2-litre small-block
cranking out 474kW and 815Nm. Chevrolet Camaros from left- to that spins a 1.4-litre supercharger to
Of course, earth-turning right-hand drive, it tried its best ➜ produce 477kW and 881Nm.
power wasn't everything to to nab something with close Matched to GM's 10-speed automatic
S T A R T
OF TERM
Hello
YOU DON'T NEED ANYWHERE NEAR FULL
THROTTLE TO SENSE THE MONSTER LURKING
112 january 2020 motormag.com.au
transmission that, ironically, was ONE It has adaptive dampers, something machine-gun bunkers would boast
co-developed with Ford, grunt is Adjustable unavailable and much needed on the better visibility. You sit low in what is
channelled to the rear wheels. There's Recaros come with $86,990 Camaro 2SS, while up front an already low-riding car with a high
an electronic differential up back as seat memory, heating are massive six-piston Brembo brakes. beltline. I quickly gave up on darting
and cooling. They
well, along with fat 305mm tyres. are superb Adjustable electric Recaro seats also traffic manoeuvres.
Chevrolet claims accelerating from feature. We don't get the fearsome 1LE The doors are long, so it's fairly
TWO
zero to 97km/h takes just 3.4sec and Heat management pack in Australia, but HSV does offer difficult to get out of, and it could use
the quarter-mile is dusted in 11.4sec. hasn't spoiled the ZL1's Goodyear Supercar Eagle 3 tyres as some front parking sensors.
We haven't come anywhere near that styling, it's improved an option for $1000. They're the tyres Then there's its thirst. Its first fill
in our first few weeks together, but we it. That aggro bonnet it's meant to use but according to HSV came in at 17.1 litres per 100km and it
vent is a highlight
look forward to trying. they didn't pass the ADR split-surface hadn't even come close to a track.
You may have noticed we've driven THREE test, so it comes with Continental Or full throttle.
this car previously. In fact, its 13,600km The wheels are ContiSportContact Sport 5s instead. Yet you don't need anywhere near
big 20-inch items,
odo suggests that plenty of people stretching more than You can bet I'll see if the that to sense the monster lurking just
have. Check out MOTOR August 2019, 11 inches wide up back Continentals can handle its prodigious beneath the surface. That LT4's strong
when it met the Mercedes-AMG C63 S grunt. Maybe even sneak in a track bottom-end means it lazily closes gaps
Coupe and Ford Mustang Shelby Super FOUR session to try them back-to-back in traffic, and the supercharger whine
The central command.
Snake widebody. Sister magazine It's not the prettiest with the Goodyears. But our short chimes in to remind you of how many
Street Machine even took it to the cluster but it's your time together so far suggests they'll horses it can unleash on demand.
most recent Drag Challenge. Luckily, portal to the car's vital struggle. Do as much as breathe on the But it's a smooth cruiser. And I'm
they didn't chew through the set of information throttle and you'll trigger the ESC. impressed with how solid the interior
Mickey Thompson drag radials they Other impressions so far? It's a fairly looks and feels after all the hard, press-
took along, so we'll fit them to the ZL1 stressful thing to potter around town. driven kilometres it's endured. There's
when we go to the strip. ➜ The car is 4831mm long, so half a not a squeak or rattle from the dash.
But this is more than just some one- ruler short of five metres, while WW2 Ultimately, we're hoping to discover
dimensional muscle cruiser hell-bent whether this $163,100 muscle coupe
on quarter-mile times, as a ZL1 with is everything that price implies it's
an optional 1LE pack (only available in THINGS THINGS cracked up to be.
America) tore around the Nurburgring PROS 03 WE LOVE 03 WE LOATHE No matter what the result, though,
Nordschleife in 7min 16sec back in and at the end of six months we know that
2018. That's faster than the Porsche CONS 1. Seats 1. Visibility this journey is at least going to be
2. Thirst
2. Looks
997.2 911 GT2 RS. 3. Blower whine 3. Size entertaining. – LC
01 02
03 04
d motorofficial f motor_ mag 113
M LONG TERMERS
RELATIONSHIP GRAPH
LOVE
1598cc turbo MONTH THIS MONTH THIS MONTH
inline-4, FWD, O5 9.4L/100KM 413KM
200kW/330Nm, AVERAGE TOTAL
1205kg, $45,990 8.8L/100KM 6614KM LOATHE
PEUGEOT 308 GTi 1 2 3 4 5 6 MONTH
PUPPY PLAYTIME varying corners for me to really get to
know its chassis. And that was before
ESC was given the flick.
If you’ve never seen Haunted Hills,
Our Pug gets a chance to ditch the leash... and the ESC it’s essentially a tight, smooth track
built into the side of a hill, with plenty
THE 308 GTi IS one of those cars that track, also known as Haunted Hills. of camber changes and enough
I’m always told “comes alive on the Once DC, Cordony and I had finished ➜ elevation variance to make you
track”, so the question most often watching the SM lads completely consider altitude sickness pills. It’s
asked of me for the past few months thrash an old engine-swapped Barina ABOVE perfect for a lightweight front-driver
has been based around how much and their stocker ‘nugget’ mid-2000s Despite the stern with an abundance of power, especially
track time I’ve had with it. Finally, I Renault Clio, it was our turn to take to face, the GTi on track if you want to find out just how playful
can answer with something other the track. Cordony was there to test a is some of the most it can be. Very, as it turns out.
than “none yet”. few hot hatches, which meant my GTi fun you can have in a With ESC on, the Pug’s rear follows
A day marked with some very was in good company. front-driver the front obediently, with little leans
Victorian weather (grey skies and Though not as sharp or capable as and the occasional slip followed by
drizzle) saw myself, some fellow the likes of the Civic Type R or Megane a flashing TC light on the dash being
MOTORists and a gang of merry folk Trophy, the 308 quickly proved itself the only indications that something far
from sister magazine Street Machine all an absolute joy, the slightly damp track more fun lies beneath a thick layer of
descend on the Bryant Park Hillclimb providing sufficient challenges and electronic safety measures. The Torsen
114 january 2020 whichcar.com.au/motor
01 02
03 04
IF YOU HAVE A 308 GTI AND car and a couple of bags of items,
It turns out that, with me in the
HAVEN’T TAKEN IT TO A TRACK, ➜ 1360kg is the real-world figure. We
can take 88kg off that for me and
my belongings, and note that the
YOU’RE SIMPLY DOING IT WRONG ONE They copped 308 only had a quarter tank of fuel.
a little bit of abuse,
but the Pilot Super
Kerb weights are intended to include
Sports are fantastic a full tank of fuel, so let’s estimate
track tyres
differential between the front wheels comical, but if you stay on the ball it that 53 litres of fuel would weigh
helps pull it through corners with ease, shouldn’t be enough to get out of hand. TWO The twists approximately 40kg (a litre of petrol
and though it was still a little wet the Tap the brakes and feel the movement. and turns of the weighs about 750 grams). At a quarter
Michelin Pilot Super Sports grip enough Looking back at the notes I wrote after Bryant Park circuit are tank, that’s 10kg, so we can add the
enough to rival an M.
to properly launch out of a tight bend. the first few laps on track reveals I at Night Shyamalan film 30kg difference back to the weight for
But I didn’t bring the Peugeot to the one point had written “bloody hilarious ending a full tank. Essentially without me, my
track to drive it with ESC on all day. fun”. If you have a 308 GTi and haven’t gear and with a full tank, the 308 GTi
Once the ominous (or promising) taken it to a track, you’re simply doing THREE I’m still weighs 1302kg.
little orange car with tyre marks lights it wrong. alone in the MOTOR So Peugeot’s claim is about 100kg
office as a fan of
up on the dash, the fun really begins. The secret to all this fun is not the driving position. off, but remember the other hatches I
Traction through the front wheels just the 200kW lurking inside the Perhaps that’s come said were around on the day? A Civic
becomes a little harder to manage, turbocharged 1.6, but also the 308’s with time spent Type R is claimed to weigh 1393kg, and
but conversely allows properly brisk low kerb weight – 1205kg is the number getting used to it the Megane Trophy 1419kg. If they are
acceleration when grip is on your side. Peugeot claims, but surely that can’t be FOUR Despite the as optimistic as the GTi’s, it has them
But what if you don’t want grip? right. So, using a weighbridge (perhaps silly noise it produces, beat by a couple of hundred kilos.
The rear has you covered. The tail of not an exact science, but we’ve got Sport was switched on Finding out the GTi was heavier than
the 308 turns out to be an absolute variables covered – we’ll get to that), for maximum attack the claim wasn’t a huge surprise, and
on track
party animal with ESC out of the I checked the GTi’s weight on the way it definitely didn’t cast a shadow over
picture, and it changes the driving back into Melbourne. an otherwise excellent day of exploring
characteristic of the car so much. While the GTi’s breadth of ability.
I’d like to see a ‘halfway point’ between But the end of the day did bring with
ESC on and off to make mountain THINGS THAT THINGSTHAT it a little sadness. Because the drive
driving a little more lively, that could PROS 03 ARE GREAT 03 ARELESSGREAT back to Melbourne would be my last
also be a dangerous suggestion. and 1. ESC off 1. Extra 100kg long stint in the GTi. Next month I have
Now back to the GTi’s… well, back. CONS 2. Oversteer 2. Rainy track days to hand back the keys to EBM-83C, and
The slides it produces are almost 3. Gorgeous chassis 3. Going home... I really don’t want to. – CT
d motorofficial f motor_ mag 115
M LONG TERMERS
RELATIONSHIP GRAPH
LOVE
O4
1368cc turbo MONTH THIS MONTH THIS MONTH
inline-4, RWD, 10.6L/100KM 1309KM
125kW/250Nm, TOTAL TOTAL
1110kg, $47,580 9.5L/100KM 7438KM LOATH
FIAT ABARTH 124 SPIDER 1 2 3 4 5 6 MONTH
COME OUT AND PLAY
Sporty little Fiat hits the long and winding road
FIRST WEEK of an Australian summer, keen to turn around and do it all again? you’ll be back on the M1 in 30 minutes
the perfect opportunity for a top-down The route should be familiar to ➜ and have a lot of fun in the process.
foray into the countryside. Or so you’d most Victorian enthusiasts; if not, Continue on and for the next 40km
think. Even putting aside Melbourne’s it should be. Head east through ABOVE the road is rarely straight for more
notoriously fickle weather, the fact Melbourne’s rapidly developing urban It’s the same old story: than a couple of hundred metres, a
that a number of Australian states are sprawl, turn north at Pakenham and before the long-termer narrow ribbon of often bumpy tarmac,
arrived I couldn’t tell
simultaneously under snow/on fire continue through Gembrook; the you the last time I saw with lush greenery leaning in on
makes the arrival of a new season feel road to Launching Place is a cracker, a 124, now it seems either side. If it sounds like the perfect
somewhat irrelevant. though if it’s been raining, like it has one appears every environment for a tarmac rally, you’d
Still, every cloud has a silver lining, today, certain corners are diabolically second day be right – the Mt Baw Baw Sprint uses
and the raindrops falling from the ones slippery. The Abarth’s rear-end wiggles this road each year and the prospect of
overhead should make this drive in the as the 205mm-wide Bridgestones try it closed to other traffic is a tantalising
Abarth even more entertaining. and fail to contain 250Nm of torque. (though daunting) one.
Plenty of kilometres have passed Hang a right at Yarra Junction and Plenty of caution is needed because
beneath the 124 Spider’s wheels over from here you delve ever deeper into many of the corners are blind and it
the past three months, but they have the Loch Valley along the C425, the only takes one log truck to come the
largely been incidental – time for a road becoming interesting after the other way, but the Abarth thrives in
day-long, just-for-the-hell-of-it drive. small timber hamlet of Powelltown. this environment. At higher speeds the
Six hours, 400km, innumerable corners There’s a good pub at Noojee, but 124 Spider can feel a bit edgy as you
and all manner of road surface, a solid there’s no time for a parmy or a photo approach the limit, the relatively soft
litmus test for any car. at the historic trestle bridge. If you’re set-up and quick responses resulting
Will I be begging for it to end, or short of time, turn right at the C465; in occasional moments of nervousness.
116 january 2020 whichcar.com.au/motor
➜
LEFT
Park up for a rest
and enjoy the sights,
sounds and smells of
the beautiful dense
rainforest
TIMEFORASIX-HOUR,400KM, ➜ the gutsy 1.4 struggling to add speed
once third gear is selected. Don’t hang
around too long at the top in warmer
JUST-FOR-THE-HELL-OF-ITDRIVE Light weight and a weather, as the Alpine-spec tarmac will
TOP
literally melt to your shoes and tyres,
WITHINNUMERABLECORNERS decent economy even and it’s a pain to remove.
little engine means
As entertaining as the drive has
when driving like your
hair is on fire. And just been, the idea of doing it all again to
as well because the get home is a bit much. Thankfully,
On a road like this, though, constantly but it’s fast enough. In contrast to the fuel tank is tiny there’s another way, if you’re feeling
switching between second and third MX-5, which thrives on revs, you short- adventurous. Turn left at the base of
gears, the Abarth’s agility, torque-rich shift the Abarth like a Group N rally car, ABOVE Baw Baw and you’ll be faced with
Sorry, birdie.
engine delivery and slick gearchange changing up at 5500rpm to cannonball Feathered friend didn’t 25km of some of the best gravel
make it extremely enjoyable. back into the pool of torque. quite fly away quick road you’ll ever find. It’s wide and
Appropriate levels of care mean Drop the roof and not only do the enough, or maybe it well maintained; in fact, it’s probably
you’re usually well within the tyres’ grip gorgeous smells of the surrounding was sucked in by the smoother than the tarmac route!
capabilities, but every now and then rainforest fill your nostrils, all manner 124’s turbo Abarth sells a 124 rally car in Europe,
there’s a well-sighted hairpin and you of noises become apparent that are the 221kW R-GT, but even the road
can turn in abruptly and get hard on usually stifled by the fabric roof: the car will put a smile on your face a mile
the power, the rear end slowly rotating suction of the turbo, the crisp exhaust wide. Next month, we’ll see if it can do
as boost builds; it’s not oversteer per note, the scuff of the tyres on the road. the same thing on track. – SN
se, just a little throttle steerability. It certainly adds to the experience
The ESP is pretty well calibrated, not and, should it start to rain, you aren’t
killing the fun completely, but as the soggily sitting there waiting for the THINGS THINGS
road gets bumpier it becomes more electric motors to do their thing – PROS 03 WE RATE 03 WE HATE
of a hindrance, tripping the Abarth up three seconds and the roof is clasped. and
even in a straight line. The ascent to the Mt Baw Baw CONS 1. Long drives 1. Bumpy roads
2. Slippery surfaces
2. Sticky tarmac
The 124 Spider isn’t particularly fast, summit is outrageously steep, even 3. Hardy brakes 3. Dawdling drivers
d motorofficial f motor_ mag 117
M HOTSOURCE.HOT SOURCE.FASTCARGUIDEFAST CAR GUIDE 0 20 POWERED BY
Hot Source
.
01
400 THE FAST GUIDE TO QUICK CARS
C ARS
Rated
1 AVOID CRACKING THE CODE
11 HMM • All performance figures are manufacturer claims, those in italics are as-tested by MOTOR.
• Figures for an automatic variant have an asterisk.
111 NOT BAD • Prices listed are manufacturer RRP, exclusive of on-roads. “DA” denotes driveaway price.
1111 GOOD • Italicised fuel consumption figures are those collected on test.
• Engines are listed by configuration, capacity and means of induction. For example, I4/1.6T= turbocharged 1.6-litre
11111 SPECIAL inline four. Torque figures made by an engine’s over-boost function are contained in parentheses.
• Red denotes a new addition. Green denotes a model update.
MODEL TESTED PRICE ENGINE KW/RPM NM/RPM DRIVE KERB KG KW/TONNE 0-100 KM/H 0-400M FUEL CONS RATING
Abarth www.fiat.com.au/abarth
595 $26,990 (5m) $28,990 (5s) I4/1.4T 107/5500 206/3000 front 1054 103 7.8 – 6.0 2.5 Abarth entry point comes with a rorty engine, but barely qualifies as a performance car
595C $29,990 (5m) $31,990 (5s) I4/1.4T 107/5500 206/3000 front 1097 100 7.8 – 6.0 2.0 Stylish and torquey urban runabout struggles for fast-car cred
595 Competizione May 18 $31,990 (5m) $33,990 (5s) I4/1.4T 132/5500 250/3000 front 1045 126 6.7 – 6.0 3.0 Last year’s power hike and price cut welcome, though serious ride/handling issues remain
595C Competizione $35,990 (5m) $37,990 (5s) I4/1.4T 132/5500 250/3000 front 1085 122 6.7 – 6.0 2.5 Monza exhaust is fantastic with the roof down, just avoid the MTA gearbox like the plague
124 Spider Aug 17 $41,990 (6m) $43,990 (6a) I4/1.4T 125/5500 250/2500 rear 1060 118 7.31 15.24 – 4.0 Sounds great, looks cool and feels faster than an MX-5, but actually isn’t
Alfa Romeo www.alfaromeo.com.au
Giulietta Veloce $41,990 (6dc) I4/1.7T 177/5750* 340/2000 front 1299 133 6.02* 14.29* 6.8 3.5 Involving handling and impressive pace blighted by poor ride, intrusive ESP and flawed driving position
4C May 15 $89,000 (6dc) I4/1.7T 177/6000 350/2200 rear 1025 173 4.5 – 6.8 3.5 Clever construction and a proper driving event, but we’re suspicious about its ride on Aussie roads
4C Spider Jun 19 $99,000 (6dc) I4/1.7T 177/6000 350/2200 rear 1035 171 4.5 – 6.9 3.5 Carbon monocoque means there’s almost no dynamic penalty – or room to put the roof
Giulia Veloce Sep 17 $72,900 (8a) I4/2.0T 206/6000 400/2200 rear 1429 144 5.71 13.92 6.1 3.5 Impressive road car, but QV looks and fine handling undermined by light steering and unkillable ESP
Giulia Quadrifoglio May 19 $145,900 (8a) V6/2.9TT 375/6500 600/2500 rear 1585 246 4.21 12.11 8.2 4.5 Alfa returns to form in style with great engine and brilliant chassis. Just lacks that final few percent
Stelvio Quadrifoglio Jul 19 $149,900 (8a) V6/2.9TT 375/6500 600/2500 all 1830 205 3.8 – 10.2 4.0 Like a Giulia SUV, but compromised by extra 245kg unless you must have all-wheel drive
Alpina www.alpinaautomobiles.com.au
B3 Biturbo S May 19 $116,990 (8a) I6/3.0TT 324/6250 660/3000 rear 1705 190 4.37 12.44 7.9 4.0 If you want a fast BMW 3-Series but find the M3 too full on, this could be the car for you
B4 Biturbo S Nov 18 $123,990 (8a) I6/3.0TT 324/6250 660/3000 rear 1690 192 4.2 – 7.9 4.0 Superb road manners and stylish looks, but you’ll have to continually explain why you didn’t buy an M4
B4 Biturbo S Convertible $159,900 (8a) I6/3.0TT 324/6250 660/3000 rear 1915 169 4.3 – 8.3 3.5 Arguably a more sensible choice than an M4 Cabriolet, but very heavy and expensive with options
B5 Biturbo $210,000 (8a) V8/4.4TT 447/6250 800/3000 all 2015 222 3.5 – 10.5 4.0 Beat new M5 to market with epic torque and acceleration, but remains an unknown quantity
B5 Biturbo Touring $217,000 (8a) V8/4.4TT 447/6250 800/3000 all 2075 215 3.7 – 10.9 4.0 BMW refuses to build an M5 wagon, but this will do. Added practicality outweighs small performance penalty
B7 Biturbo Feb 18 $POA (8a) V8/4.4TT 447/6250 800/3000 rear 2035 219 4.5 – 10.4 4.0 If you value exclusivity and care not for resale, this V8 limo is worth a look
Alpine www.alpinecars.com.au
Pure $97,000 (7dc) I4/1.8T 185/6000 320/2000 rear 1103 168 4.5 12.7 6.2 4.5 Stripped back, driver-focused version to go up against the S55-powered BMW M2 Competition
Legende $103,500 (7dc) I4/1.8T 185/6000 320/2000 rear 1103 168 4.5 12.7 6.2 4.5 Pays homage to the 1960s-era A110 Berlinette 1600S with two-tone wheels and adds more luxury
Aston Martin www.astonmartin.com
Vantage V8 Sep 18 $299,950 (8a) V8/4.0TT 375/6000 685/2000 rear 1530 245 3.6 – 10.5 4.5 Looks fantastic and pairs beastly AMG V8 with a playful rear-drive chassis
Vantage AMR $369,950 (7m) V8/4.0TT 375/6000 625/2000 rear 1499 250 4.0 – 10.5 4.5 Flat-shifting, manual-only track weapon destined to delight on Aussie roads
DB11 V8 $374,995 (8a) V8/4.0TT 375/6000 675/2000 rear 1760 213 4.0 – 9.9 4.0 Sportiest DB11 benefits from AMG twin-turbo V8 and revised suspension for a sharper drive
DB11 V8 Volante $398,495 (8a) V8/4.0TT 375/6000 675/2000 rear 1870 201 4.1 – 10.0 4.0 V8 only, with the ability to whip the soft-top off in 14 seconds via remote
DB11 Apr 18 $395,000 (8a) V12/5.2TT 447/6500 700/1500 rear 1770 253 3.9 – 11.3 4.5 Exactly what a luxury GT should be; magnificent engine, chassis finely judged
DB11 AMR Jun 19 $428,000 (8a) V12/5.2TT 470/6500 700/1500 rear – – 3.7 – 11.4 4.5 AM Racing version replaces Launch Edition with more power, faster performance, same price
DBS Superleggera Aug 19 $517,000 (8a) V12/5.2TT 533/6500 900/1800 rear 1693 315 3.5 – – 4.0 Drop-dead gorgeous, stunning acceleration, very comfortable, but no 812 Superfast in the corners
Vanquish S Ultimate $518,995 (8a) V12/5.9 444/7000 630/5500 rear 1739 249 3.5 – 13.1 4.0 175-unit farewell edition gets no extra power, but plenty of extra toys
Vanquish S Ultimate Volante $555,995 (8a) V12/5.9 444/7000 630/5500 rear 1849 234 3.5 13.1 3.5 At this price, we’d (much) rather a DBS Superleggera, thanks
Rapide S $382,110 (8a) V12/5.9 411/6650 630/5500 rear 1990 207 4.9 – – 3.0 When you want to be James Bond but need to take the kids to school, as only kids will fit in the rear
Rapide AMR Aug 19 $459,950 (8a) V12/5.9 433/7000 630/5500 rear 1990 218 4.4 – – 4.0 A more rapid Rapide grand finale looks as hot as ever, but feeling its age against newer rivals
118 january 2020 whichcar.com.au/motor
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ABARTH – BMW
MODEL TESTED PRICE ENGINE KW/RPM NM/RPM DRIVE KERB KG KW/TONNE 0-100 KM/H 0-400M FUEL CONS RATING
Audi www.audi.com.au
A1 40 TFSI $46,900 (6dc) I4/2.0T 147/6000 320/1500 front 1260 117 6.5 – 6.0 3.5 A fancier, better-looking alternative to the Polo GTI, only way more expensive
A3 40 TFSI quattro $52,900 (7dc) I4/2.0T 140/6200 320/1250 all 1380 101 6.8 – 6.6 3.0 Quicker than you’d expect, but quattro unnecessary at this power level
S3 Sportback Apr 17 $64,200 (7dc) I4/2.0T 213/6500 380/1800 all 1530 139 4.8 – 6.6 4.0 Under-rated and really quite fun, but give us the Euro-spec 221kW!
S3 Sedan Jan 17 $65,800 (7dc) I4/2.0T 213/6500 380/1800 all 1530 139 4.8 – 6.5 4.0 Sleek looks, compact size, pokey performance and good value. We’d opt for the hatch, though
S3 Cabriolet $73,400 (7dc) I4/2.0T 213/6200 380/1800 all 1670 128 5.2 – 6.8 3.5 Finally, a good-looking small convertible, but can’t escape the inherent compromises
A4 45 TFSI quattro Sport $70,300 (7dc) I4/2.0T 185/6000 370/1600 all 1510 122 5.8 – 6.3 3.5 Beautiful inside and surprisingly capable, but not a car to raise the heart rate
A4 Avant 45 TFSI quattro $73,300 (7dc) I4/2.0T 185/6000 370/1600 all 1540 120 6.0 – 6.6 3.5 Possibly the most sensible car in this whole section, but who wants to be sensible?
S4 Sep 17 $98,882 (8a) V6/3.0T 260/6400 500/1370 all 1630 159 4.95 13.12 11.02 4.0 A surprise package – subtle looks, cracking engine and (with the sports diff) engaging handling
S4 Avant Apr 17 $101,882 (8a) V6/3.0T 260/6400 500/1370 all 1675 155 4.9 – 7.8 4.0 Arguably even more appealing than the sedan and makes a mockery of the fast-SUV craze
RS4 Avant Feb 19 $152,529 (8a) V6/2.9TT 331/6700 600/1700 all 1790 185 3.87 12.02 8.9 4.0 Buff yet practical body, sledgehammer pace, with a ride subtlety missing from the C63 S Estate
A5 45 TFSI Coupe $81,700 (7dc) I4/2.0T 185/6000 370/1600 all 1500 123 5.8 – 6.5 3.5 Crisp looks and deceptively quick, but expensive when the A4 does the same thing (with less style)
A5 45 TFSI Sportback $81,700 (7dc) I4/2.0T 185/6000 370/1600 all 1535 121 6.0 – 6.5 3.5 More versatile and better looking than A4 sedan – more expensive and cramped than A4 Avant
A5 45 TFSI Cabriolet $95,200 (7dc) I4/2.0T 185/6000 370/1600 all 1710 108 6.3 – 6.7 3.5 Big price and weight hike over the coupe but cures most of the previous car’s ills
S5 Coupe May 17 $104,042 (8a) V6/3.0T 260/6400 500/1370 all 1615 161 4.7 – 7.5 4.0 Creamy turbo V6 blends luxury and dynamics. Optional Sport diff a must-have
S5 Sportback July 17 $104,042 (8a) V6/3.0T 260/6400 500/1370 all 1660 157 4.7 – 7.5 4.0 Coupe with back doors and space for three in the rear ... or you could just buy the roomier S4 Avant
S5 Cabriolet Dec 17 $117,582 (8a) V6/3.0T 260/6400 500/1370 all 1840 141 5.1 – 7.9 3.5 Stronger, swifter than old S5 Cabriolet with not much to moan about apart from weight increase
RS5 Oct 18 $157,700 (8a) V6/2.9TT 331/6700 600/1700 all 1730 191 3.96 12.04 8.8 4.0 If you can get over the lack of an atmo V8 (which is tough to do), you’ll find a more rounded, capable car
RS5 Sportback May 19 $157,700 (8a) V6/2.9TT 331/6700 600/1700 all 1840 180 3.70 11.90 – 4.0 Same cost as coupe, but with extra (pillarless) doors. We’d still have an RS4 Avant
A6 55 TFSI $116,000 (7dc) V6/3.0T 250/6400 500/1370 all 1835 136 5.2 – 7.0 4.0 The cheapest ticket into Audi’s vastly improved MLB-based handling package. Looks good too
A7 Sportback 55 TFSI $131,542 (7dc) V6/3.0T 250/6400 500/1370 all 1890 132 5.2 – 7.1 4.0 Superb engine and technology poached from new-gen A8 ... for $63K less
A8 55 TFSI Apr 19 $194,642 (8a) V6/3.0T 250/6400 500/1370 all 1995 125 5.6 – 8.2 4.0 Faster and almost as efficient as old-gen diesel V8. New chassis sparkles, only slightly remote
A8 L 55 TFSI $209,642 (8a) V6/3.0T 250/6400 500/1370 all 2315 108 5.7 – 8.2 4.0 An A8 with even more legroom and (optional) rear-seat foot massage. We’re serious...
TT 45 TFSI quattro $79,900 (7dc) I4/2.0T 169/6200 370/1600 all 1365 124 5.2 – 6.6 3.5 New, simplified TT range kicks off with a seven-speed all-wheel drive variant
TT S $99,900 (7dc) I4/2.0T 210/6200 380/1800 all 1385 152 4.7 – 7.0 3.5 Extremely quick, great interior and involving handling ruined by spine-crushing ride
SQ5 TFSI $99,900 (8a) V6/3.0T 260/6400 500/1370 all 1870 139 5.4 – 8.7 4.0 Polished family hauler that’s surprisingly adept, though lacks the old diesel’s character
Q8 55 TFSI $128,542 (8a) V6/3.0T 250/5500 500/2900 all 2265 111 5.9 – 9.2 4.0 Not as quick as SQ7, but petrol-turbo V6 is sweeter. Five-seat cabin is as slick as exterior design
SQ7 TDI Feb 17 $161,900 (8a) V8/4.0TTD 320/5000 900/1000 all 2270 141 4.8 – 7.6 4.0 High-tech seven-seater every bit as good as the Bentayga for half the price
Bentley www.bentleymotors.com
Continental GT Feb 18 $422,600 (8dc) W12/6.0TT 467/6000 900/1350 all 2244 208 3.7 – 12.2 4.0 It took 15 years to get an all-new coupe, with proper pace and physics-defying dynamics
Flying Spur V8 $378,197 (8a) V8/4.0TT 373/6000 660/2000 all 2342 159 5.2 – 10.9 3.5 British alternative to an S63 AMG feeling its age and not long for this world
Flying Spur W12 Dec 13 $423,160 (8a) W12/6.0TT 460/6000 800/2000 all 2400 192 4.6 – 14.7 3.5 Huge pace and comfortable ride, although it can’t hide from its heft or heavy low-speed steering
Mulsanne $662,858 (8a) V8/6.75TT 377/4200 1020/1750 rear 2610 150 5.3 – 16.9 3.0 Opulent old-school Bentley is surprisingly dynamic, yet fearsomely expensive and thirsty
Mulsanne Speed $733,387 (8a) V8/6.75TT 395/4200 1100/1750 rear 2610 151 4.8 – 14.6 3.0 The torquiest car on sale in Oz. For those to whom money is no object
Bentayga V8 $334,700 (8a) V8/4.0TT 404/6000 770/1960 all 2395 169 4.5 – 11.4 4.0 Sweet V8 soundtrack makes the ‘entry-level’ Bentayga arguably the most appealing
Bentayga V8 Diesel $335,000 (8a) V8/4.0TTD 320/5000 900/1000 all 2499 128 4.8 – 8.0 4.0 Bentley buyers don’t shop in Audi showrooms, but the SQ7 is the better choice
Bentayga W12 Nov 16 $427,300 (8a) W12/6.0TT 447/6000 900/1350 all 2440 183 4.1 – 13.1 4.0 For those who have to have the ultimate SUV, there’s now the Rolls-Royce Cullinan to consider
BMW www.bmw.com.au
M135i xDrive $63,990 (8a) I4/2.0T 225/6250 450/1750 all 1525 148 4.8 – 7.1 3.5 Fine up to seven tenths but can unravel beyond; practical and effective; RIP M140i
230i $65,500 (6m/8a) I4/2.0T 185/6500 350/1250 rear 1385 134 5.6 – 5.9 3.5 Proof that BMW still knows how to do a super-sweet rear-drive sports coupe
230i Convertible $75,800 (6m/8a) I4/2.0T 185/6000 350/1250 rear 1555 119 5.9 – 6.2 3.5 Removable roof doesn’t improve the experience as much as the $10K premium suggests it should
M240i Ann 16 $79,100 (6m/8a) I6/3.0T 250/6000 500/1300 rear 1455 172 4.6 – 7.1 4.0 Great car but you’ll have to really want that coupe bodyshell to pay $19K more than a M140i
M240i Convertible $88,500 (6m/8a) I6/3.0T 250/6000 500/1300 rear 1620 154 4.7 – 7.4 3.5 Engine makes light work of the extra heft for a not inconsiderable sum
M2 Competition Pure Jul 19 $99,900 (6m/7dc) I6/3.0TT 302/7000 550/2350 rear 1550 195 4.2 – – 4.5 M3 power in raw and compact sub-$100K M2 package is an equation we like. A lot
M2 Competition Feb 19 $104,900 (6m/7dc) I6/3.0TT 302/7000 550/2350 rear 1550 195 4.5* 12.52* – 4.5 Even with more kit, M2 Competition is still nearly $25K cheaper than an M3 Pure...
330i Aug 19 $67,900 (6m/8a) I4/2.0T 190/5200 400/1450 rear 1470 126 5.9 – 5.7 4.0 If you had to recommend a car to suit absolutely everyone, this would be high on the list
330i Touring $70,900 (6m/8a) I4/2.0T 185/5200 350/1450 rear 1540 120 6.0 – 6.1 4.0 The above with added practicality and style (and weight)
M340i xDrive $99,000 (8a) I6T/3.0T 285/6500 500/1550 all 1730 159 4.4 – 7.5 4.0 BMW plugs the gap between 3 Series and M3 with a capable, fast, semi high-performance sedan
M3 Pure May 19 $129,529 (6m/7dc) I6/3.0TT 331/7300 550/1800 rear 1520 218 4.18 – 8.8 4.5 An incredible amount of car for the money. Keep the 19s and Continental tyres for the best experience
M3 Competition Sep 17 $146,529 (6m/7dc) I6/3.0TT 331/7300 550/1800 rear 1520 218 4.16 12.15 8.8 4.5 Incredible performance but standard brakes weak, 20s hurt the ride, and it can be a handful
430i $82,500 (6m/8a) I4/2.0T 185/6500 350/1250 rear 1470 126 5.9 – 5.8 3.5 Frugal, nicely balanced fun that struggles to set your pulse alight
430i Cabrio $101,200 (6m/8a) I4/2.0T 185/6500 350/1250 rear 1680 110 6.4 – 6.3 3.5 Capable and enjoyable drop-top likely to find favour with real estate agents
440i Jan 18 $103,200 (6m/8a) I6/3.0T 240/6000 450/1200 rear 1525 157 5.14* 13.27* 10.4* 4.0 Incredibly accomplished coupe, but a little characterless – needs more engine note
440i Gran Coupe Sep 16 $103,200 (6m/8a) I6/3.0T 240/6000 450/1200 rear 1585 151 5.1* – 6.8 4.0 The ultimate niche filler turns out to be the best of both worlds. A fine car
440i Convertible $121,200 (6m/8a) I6/3.0T 240/6000 450/1200 rear 1740 138 5.4* – 7.2 3.5 Arguably more fit for purpose than M4 drop-top. No roof upsets balance between power/handling
M4 Pure $139,529 (6m/7dc) I6/3.0TT 331/7300 550/1800 rear 1497 221 4.2 – 8.8 4.5 Good value compared to C63 Coupe and much more potent than RC F
M4 Competition Ann 16 $156,529 (6m/7dc) I6/3.0TT 331/7300 550/1800 rear 1497 221 4.2 – 8.8 4.5 Doesn’t have the visual menace of the M3, but surprisingly practical as well as insanely fast
M4 Convertible Competition $167,829 (6m/7dc) I6/3.0TT 331/7300 550/1800 rear 1753 189 – – 9.1 3.5 Outrageous twin-turbo torque helps take your mind off the body flex
540i May 17 $142,300 (8a) I6/3.0T 250/6500 450/1380 rear 1595 157 5.1 – 6.7 3.5 Extremely capable but feels to be trying to keep the driver at an arm’s length
M550i xDrive Pure $134,900 (8a) V8/4.4TT 390/6000 750/1800 all 1810 215 3.8 – 8.9 4.0 Baby M badge brings serious torque, active diff and adaptive dampers, all for a bargain price
M550i xDrive $149,900 (8a) V8/4.4TT 390/6000 750/1800 all 1810 215 3.8 – 8.9 4.0 Full-fruit version adds laser headlights and more luxury, along with active roll bars and rear-wheel steering
M5 Competition Feb 19 $229,900 (8a) V8/4.4TT 460/6000 750/1800 all 1865 247 3.78 11.53 10.8 4.5 Less weight would have been preferable to more power, but 3.3sec 0-100km/h is silly fast
740i $199,900 (8a) I6/3.0T 250/6500 450/1380 rear – – – – – 4.0 Has all the bells and whistles yet somehow lacks the luxury vibe of the S-Class
750i xDrive $272,900 (8a) V8/4.4TT 390/6000 750/1800 all 1965 198 4.0 – 9.5 4.0 A fair chunk of the V12’s performance for a lot less
M760Li xDrive $378,900 (8a) V12/6.6TT 430/5250 850/1600 all 2220 194 3.9 – 12.5 3.5 Top-dog limousine heroically fast and surprisingly dynamic, but what’s the point?
d motorofficial f motor_ mag 119
M POWERED BY
MODEL TESTED PRICE ENGINE KW/RPM NM/RPM DRIVE KERB KG KW/TONNE 0-100 KM/H 0-400M FUEL CONS RATING
M850i Gran Coupe $272,900 (8a) V8/4.4TT 390/6000 750/1800 all 1995 196 3.9 – 9.9 4.0 Four doors on BMW’s new blistering GT doesn’t spoil its sleek looks. Will report back when we drive one
M850i Jul 19 $272,900 (8a) V8/4.4TT 390/6000 750/1800 all 1890 206 3.7 – 9.8 4.0 New 6-Series replacement makes serious strides forward for the brand
M850i Convertible $281,900 (8a) V8/4.4TT 390/6000 750/1800 all 2015 194 3.9 – 10.6 4.0 Easier access to the retuned V8’s great new soundtrack
M8 Competition Dec 19 $352,900 (8a) V8/4.4TT 460/6000 750/1800 all 1885 244 3.2 – 10.6 4.0 Monstrous luxury coupe is blisteringly quick, but still no 911 Turbo beater
i8 Feb 16 $318,900 (6a) I3/1.5T(E) 275/5800 570/3700 all 1535 179 4.4 – 2.2 4.0 The best-driving BMW is only a more inspiring petrol engine away from being entirely brilliant
i8 Roadster $348,900 (6a) I3/1.5T(E) 275/5800 570/3700 all 1595 172 4.6 – 2.4 4.0 Carbonfibre chassis gives i8 Roadster the strength to drive just like the i8 Coupe
Z4 sDrive 20i M Sport $84,900 (8a/6m) I4/2.0T 140/6500 320/1450 rear 1405 100 6.6 – 6.8 4.0 Manual transmission set to make the ‘slow one’ a more involving experience
Z4 sDrive 30i M Sport $104,900 (8a) I4/2.0T 190/6500 400/1550 rear 1415 134 5.4 – 6.1 4.0 High-output turbo four and a light rear-drive chassis is good on paper, but the six is much faster in reality
Z4 M40i $124,900 (8a) I6/3.0T 250/6500 500/1600 rear 1535 163 4.5 – 6.3 4.5 More grown-up BMW’s roadster (now with Toyota links) can genuinely fight the Porsche Boxster
X2 M35i $68,900 (8a) I4/2.0T 225/6250 450/1750 all 1610 140 4.9 – 7.4 3.5 Mini-based all-paw small SUV with ‘M’ treatment a brave new world for compact BMWs
X3 M40i $99,900 (8a) I6/3.0T 265/6500 500/1520 all 1810 146 4.8 – 8.9 4.0 Superb performance takes it right to Mercedes-AMG GLC43 (if not GLC63)
X3 M Competition Aug 19 $157,900 (8a) I6/3.0TT 375/6250 600/2600 all 1970 190 4.1 – – 4.0 Our first taste of next M3/M4’s S58 turbo inline-six
X4 M40i Jan 19 $110,900 (8a) I6/3.0T 265/6500 500/1550 all 1825 145 4.8 – 9.0 4.0 Hefty $10K premium over an X3 M40i with a slanted roof. Wouldn’t you prefer an Audi S4 Avant?
X4 M Competition $164,900 (8a) I6/3.0TT 375/6250 600/2600 all 1970 190 4.1 – – 4.0 Like the X3 M Competition, but with a slicked-back roofline
X5 M50d $149,900 (8a) I6/3.0QTD 294/4400 760/2000 all 2275 129 5.2 – 7.5 3.5 Quad-turbo diesel with startling economy, but that kerb weight affects performance
X7 M50d $169,900 (8a) I6/3.0QTD 294/4400 760/2000 all 2460 120 5.4 – 7.4 3.5 Behind the huge kidney grille is the quad-turbo diesel six, but it tips the scales at two and a half tonnes
Caterham www.caterhamcars.com.au
Seven 275 Sep 17 $73,700 (5m) I4/1.6 100/6100 160/4100 rear 590 170 6.53 14.8 6.2 3.0 Entry-level Caterham is great fun to steer. It’s an emotional purchase for the cash – there’s quicker
Seven 485 S $114,000 (6m) I4/2.0 177/8500 206/6300 rear 675 262 4.5 – 7.7 3.5 The proper, full-fruit, no-electronics Caterham experience. Just be prepared to pay for it
Seven CSR $115,000 (6m) I4/2.0 177/8500 206/6300 rear 700 253 4.5 – 7.7 4.0 A truly special driving experience, but it’s 718 Boxster money for a car without a proper roof...
Chevrolet www.chevrolet.com.au
Camaro 2SS Jun 19 $86,990 (6m) $89,190 (10a) V8/6.2 339/6000 617/4400 rear 1710 198 4.59 12.57 13 4.0 A proper rear-drive V8 with an LSD for under $100K. Feels solidly built. Needs adaptive damping next
Camaro ZL1 Aug 19 $159,990 (6m) $162,190 (10a) V8/6.2S 477/6400 881/3600 rear 1795 266 – – 15.3 4.0 Serious performance and impressive ride/handling, but more a potent grand tourer than a two-door W1
Chrysler www.chrysler.com.au
300 SRT Core Sep 16 $65,950 (8a) V8/6.4 350/6150 637/4250 rear 1946 180 4.68 12.76 13.0 4.0 Incredible pace for the money. It could use adaptive dampers, and the interior feels a little cheap
300 SRT Apr 19 $74,950 (8a) V8/6.4 350/6150 637/4250 rear 1965 178 4.87 12.97 – 4.0 Great value, rides well and sounds mint. Just remember it’s no ballerina in the bends, and it’s thirsty
Ferrari www.ferrari.com.au
Portofino Apr 19 $398,888 (7dc) V8/3.9TT 441/7500 760/3000 rear 1664 265 3.5 – – 3.5 Fitter and faster than California T without capturing the magic of Ferrari’s more established models
488 GTB Feb 17 $469,988 (7dc) V8/3.9TT 492/8000 760/3000 rear 1475 334 3.3 11.0 11.4 5.0 A stunning achievement with performance to burn and truly involving dynamics
488 Spider Dec 16 $526,888 (7dc) V8/3.9TT 492/8000 760/3000 rear 1525 323 3.0 – 11.4 5.0 All the driving experience with even more involvement ... it’s just not as stiff as the coupe
488 Pista Dec 18 $645,000 DA (7dc) V8/3.9TT 530/8000 770/3000 rear 1385 383 2.85 – – 5.0 Mind-altering performance, with an even sharper focus, though it comes at an almighty price
F8 Tributo Nov 19 $484,888 (7dc) V8/3.9TT 530/7000 770/3000 rear 1435 369 2.9 – 12.9 5.0 Ferrari’s mid-engine V8 staple now so fast your brain might not be able to keep up
GTC4 Lusso T May 17 $503,888 (7dc) V8/3.9TT 449/7500 760/3000 rear 1840 244 3.5 – 11.6 4.5 Rear-drive family Ferrari adds fun factor at the expense of V12 soundtrack
GTC4 Lusso Oct 16 $578,888 (7dc) V12/6.3 507/8000 697/6000 all 1920 264 3.4 – 15.4 4.5 Prettier and more powerful than FF predecessor, comes with a scary price tag and fuel use
812 Superfast Oct 18 $610,000 (7dc) V12/6.5 588/8500 718/7000 rear 1630 357 2.9 – 14.9 5.0 F12 successor wraps possibly world’s greatest engine in a prettier body for less money
812 GTS Dec 19 $675,888 (7dc) V12/6.5 588/8500 718/7000 rear 1705 345 2.9 – – 5.0 It’s $65K more expensive, but that’s the price to hear one of the best engines around
Ford www.ford.com.au
Fiesta ST $31,990 (6m) I3/1.5T 147/6000 290/1600 front 1283 115 6.5 – 6.0 4.5 Mini performance hero is reportedly everything we hoped for but we have to wait until 2020 to drive one
Focus ST-Line $28,990 (8a) I3/1.5T 134/6000 240/1600 front 1369 98 8.3 – 5.5 3.5 Focus makes an attempt at reclaiming warm-hatch royalty, but with three pots and no manual
Focus ST $44,690 (7a/6m) I4/2.3T 206/5500 420/3000 front 1508 137 5.6 – 7.9 4.5 More liveable, still incredibly capable and better poised to fight the Golf GTI than ever
Mustang EcoBoost Jul 19 50,990 (6m) $53,990 (10a) I4/2.3T 224/5700 441/3000 rear 1705 131 – – 8.5 3.5 Don’t sneer, the four-pot Mustang is a great steer, but a Mustang without a V8 just isn’t quite right
Mustang EcoBoost Convertible Apr 19 $60,490 (10a) I4/2.3T 224/5700 441/3000 rear 1765 127 – – 9.5 3.5 Great value for a head-turning convertible. Just don’t call it a muscle car
Mustang GT Jul 19 $63,690 (6m) $66,690 (10a) V8/5.0 339/7000 556/4600 rear 1732 196 4.53* 12.49* 13.0 4.0 With hugely improved steering and suspension, it’s what ‘Stang should have been from the start
Mustang GT Convert. $74,890 (10a) V8/5.0 339/7000 556/4600 rear 1802 188 – – 12.7 3.5 Copped the power and torque hike, but even more of a price rise. Go the GT coupe
Mustang Bullitt Apr 19 $73,688 (6m) V8/5.0 345/7000 556/4600 rear 1770 195 5.34 13.24 12.5 4.0 McQueen of the Mustang crop ups power and looks good, but it asks a pretty penny...
Genesis www.genesis-motors.com.au
G70 Sport $72,250 (8a) V6/3.3TT 272/6000 510/1300 rear 1719 158 4.7 13.3 10.2 4.0 Brawny compact sedan delivers benchmark ride quality but falls short on the finer things
G70 Ultimate Aug 19 $79,950 (8a) V6/3.3TT 272/6000 510/1300 rear 1762 154 4.92 13.15 10.2 4.0 Premium audio, interior finish and wheel package steps up ambience and appeal for range topper
G80 $68,900 (8a) V6/3.8 232/6000 397/5000 rear 1872 124 – – – 3.5 Revised flagship for the now standalone Genesis brand scores extra local chassis tuning
G80 Ultimate $88,900 (8a) V6/3.8 232/6000 397/5000 rear 1935 120 – – – 3.0 Added kit struggles to justify extra $20K. Please can we have the V8? Pretty please?
Holden www.holden.com.au
Astra RS Aug 17 $26,240 (6m) $27,240 (6a) I4/1.6T 147/5500 (300)/1650 front 1325 111 7.37 15.29 5.8 3.5 Muscular performance and capable dynamics for the price. Not super-sporty, despite the RS badge
Commodore RS $40,790 (9a) V6/3.6 235/6800 381/5200 all 1672 141 – – – 4.0 Base V6 Commodore is the lightest and therefore quickest. It makes a fine SV6 replacement
Commodore RS-V $46,990 (9a) V6/3.6 235/6800 381/5200 all 1672 141 – – – 4.0 Extra kit makes RS-V the sweet spot of the ZB Commodore range
Commodore RS-V Sportwagon $49,190 (9a) V6/3.6 235/6800 381/5200 all 1737 135 – – – 4.0 Stylish family hauler is an impressive package despite the high $49K entry point
120 january 2020 whichcar.com.au/motor
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BMW – JAGUAR
MODEL TESTED PRICE ENGINE KW/RPM NM/RPM DRIVE KERB KG KW/TONNE 0-100 KM/H 0-400M FUEL CONS RATING
Calais-V $51,990 (9a) V6/3.6 235/6800 381/5200 all – – – – – 3.5 Cheaper and better equipped than a Stinger GT, but then it’s nowhere near as quick
Commodore VXR Mar 18 $55,990 (9a) V6/3.6 235/6800 381/5200 all 1737 138 – – – 3.5 Has everything it needs except a proper engine. More performance expected at this price point
Honda www.honda.com.au
Civic Type R Aug 19 $51,990 (6m) I4/2.0T 228/6500 400/2500 front 1393 164 5.68 13.66 7.7 4.5 Get past the challenging looks and you’ll experience possibly the best front-driver there’s ever been
NSX Sep 18 $420,000 (9dc) V6/3.5TT 427/6500 646/2000 all 1698 251 – – 9.7 4.5 Amazing speed and technology, but fighting in a fiercely competitive supercar segment
Hyundai www.hyundai.com.au
i30 N Line $26,490 (6m) $29,490 (7dc) I4/1.6T 150/6000 265/1500 front 1315 114 – – 7.5 3.5 SR-replacing N Line is still a terrific warm hatch with a punchy engine and good dynamics
i30 N Feb 19 $40,490 (6m) I4/2.0T 202/6000 378/1750 front 1429 141 6.24 14.26 8.0 4.5 Finessed, flavoursome, but not wickedly fast. A sweet blend of virtues for the price
i30 Fastback N Jul 19 $41,990 (6m) I4/2.0T 202/6000 378/1750 front 1441 140 6.1 – 8.0 4.0 Broadens the i30 N tasting, which is great, but adds weight to a hot hatch that needs to lose some
Elantra Sport $28,990 (6m) $31,490 (7dc) I4/1.6T 150/6000 265/1500 front 1360 110 7.7 – – 3.5 Polished chassis, useable grunt and decent value, but it’s not a true performance car
Veloster Turbo $35,490(6m)$38,490(7dc) I4/1.6T 150/6000 265/1500 front 1270 118 – – 7.5 3.5 SR-replacing N Line is still a terrific warm hatch with a punchy engine and good dynamics
Infiniti www.infiniticars.com.au
Q50 Pure $58,900 (7a) V6/3.0TT 224/6400 400/5200 rear 1784 126 – – 9.2 3.0 400Nm twin-turbo V6 is a clear de-tune of a great engine, but it’s priced like Stinger GT
Q50 Sport $64,900 (7a) V6/3.0TT 224/6400 400/5200 rear 1784 126 – – 9.2 3.0 Now loaded with all the gear, but Q50 should get the Red Sport tune at this price point
Q50 Red Sport $74,900 (7a) V6/3.0TT 298/6400 475/5200 rear 1784 167 4.89 13.0 9.3 3.0 Considerable mumbo for the money, just needs a chassis to harness it
Q60 Red Sport Jul 17 $84,900 (7a) V6/3.0TT 298/6400 475/5200 rear 1784 167 – – 8.9 3.5 Sexier than the sedan, with fun dynamics in certain conditions, but it’s costly and cramped
Q70 GT $68,900 (7a) V6/3.7 235/7000 360/5200 rear 1702 138 6.2 – 10.2 2.5 A value proposition with unique styling tied to a chassis that feels old and dynamically unresolved
Q70 Hybrid Premium Aug 12 $82,900 (7a) V6/3.5E 268/6800 520/5000 rear 1785 150 5.5 – 6.9 2.5 Strong petrol-electric performance and economy let down by steering that feels artificial
QX70 S Premium $104,900 (7a) V8/5.0 297/6500 500/4400 all 1992 149 5.8 – 13.1 3.0 Cracking V8 means this SUV shifts, but it likes a drink, and the styling is love or hate
Jaguar www.jaguar.com.au
XE R-Dynamic $71,490 (8a) I4/2.0T 221/5500 400/1500 rear 1558 142 5.9 – 6.9 3.5 Pairs lovely ride and handling with smooth steering, just don’t look at the options list
XF 30t R-Sport $96,700 (8a) I4/2.0T 221/5500 400/1500 rear 1663 133 5.9 – 7.5 3.5 Scores 221kW four-pot with lovely steering and ride quality, but it’s not as fast as the figures suggest
XF 35t S Apr 16 $130,342 (8a) V6/3.0S 280/6500 450/4500 rear 1704 164 5.3 – 8.3 3.5 F-Type S engine tune and sharper styling. Look to the smaller, lighter XE for a more sporting steer
XF 30d S Apr 16 $123,600 (8a) V6/3.0TD 221/4000 700/2000 rear 1803 122 6.4 – 5.5 3.5 Massive torque makes it brisk in the real world, but prefers life at a more relaxed pace
XF 30d S Sportbrake $130,100 (8a) V6/3.0TD 221/4000 700/2000 rear 1855 119 6.6 – 5.9 3.5 Drive one of these before you buy that premium SUV. Stunning looks
XJ Autobiography LWB $307,125 (8a) V8/5.0S 375/6500 625/2500 rear 1880 199 4.9 – 11.6 3.5 The barge from Blighty astounds with its ability. Well, anywhere that’s not a car park. Ride is firm
XJR 575 Ann 18 $309,745 (8a) V8/5.0S 423/6250 700/3500 rear 1875 226 4.4 – 11.1 4.0 Ageing star that nevertheless is utterly charming thanks to ballistic blown V8
F-Type 2.0 Coupe $113,842 (8a) I4/2.0T 221/5500 400/1500 rear 1525 145 5.7 – 7.2 3.5 New four-pot sheds weight and sounds a lot better than you’d expect, but the options list is a minefield
F-Type V6 Coupe $128,042 (6m) $133,042 (8a) V6/3.0S 250/6500 450/3500 rear 1577 159 5.3 – 8.4 3.5 A sweet package if you’re not keen on really hard driving. Avoid the manual
F-Type V6 R Coupe $155,542 (6m) $160,542 (8a) V6/3.0S 280/6500 460/3500 rear 1594 176 4.9 – 8.6 3.5 Extra grunt and LSD makes it a sharper package, but more noise than actual pace
F-Type V6 AWD Coupe $184,142 (8a) V6/3.0S 280/6500 460/3500 all 1674 167 5.1 – 8.9 3.5 With these power outputs, all-wheel drive really just makes the car slower and thirstier
F-Type V8 R Coupe Feb 16 $252,842 (8a) V8/5.0S 404/6500 680/2500 all 1730 234 3.75 11.80 11.3 4.0 Brutally quick and a great drive, with stunning looks and soundtrack to match. We miss the rear-driver
F-Type V8 SVR Coupe Jun 17 $297,242 (8a) V8/5.0S 423/6500 700/3500 all 1705 248 3.7 – 11.3 4.0 Lighter and even quicker than V8 R but not subtle in any way, shape or form
CHART ATTACK LAST MONTH IN PERFORMANCE CAR SALES
COMMODORE BOWS OUT
ZB, Astra cut as Holden focuses on SUVs only
HOLDEN ANNOUNCED the imminent end of the Commodore during December,
with the ZB no longer part of its range post-2020. But the ZB hasn’t exactly
been selling like hotcakes, with only 5417 Commodores having been sold
during the first 11 months of 2019. And with the odd VFII Commodore -47
straggling as leftover stock, not every one of those sold will have been a ZB.
That’s why Holden – which is also axing the Astra – is moving to sell only
SUVs and light commercial vehicles, which made up the bulk of its 39,969 PIPING HOT TOO COOL
sales to the end of November. The Trax sold 4252 units, the Equinox 4448 BENTLEY PER CENT MAZDA MX-5
T
5
-
MX
MAZDA
and the Colorado a massive 16,106. CONTINENTAL GT Due for a very mild refresh in 2020
But even with a dual-cab hauling the figures up, the total figures for Ok a y , so it s no t e x ac tly a huge – consisting of a new colour and
Okay so it’s not exactly a huge
the majority of 2019 still fall short of the Commodore’s sales alone just seller in the first place, but updated interior materials – Mazda’s
one decade ago. In 2009, Holden sold 44,387 Commodores. The year before 77 sales in 201 exclud affordable roadster is far from
that, 51,093. December) turned into 99 for Australia’s favourite sports car
However, Holden’s sales slump isn’t just because of the decline of the the same period in 2019. Triple despite its reputation. Only 421 were
sold to November 2019, down from
ures isn’t bad for a $422K car.
sedan as a buyer’s choice, nor is it just that the ZB has been a less popular 29 794 for the same period in 2018.
car than its Australian-built predecessors. 2019 was rough for the indust try
as a whole, with FCAI chairman Tony Weber admitting that “the appetite f for
new vehicles remains suppressed”.
Most high-volume brands are down year-on-year. Volkswagen sold
12.4 per cent fewer cars up to November than it did in the same period R CENT
in 2018, with Mazda down 11.2 per cent and Toyota down 6.3 per cent. A
few ‘premium’ brands – Porsche, Lexus, Ferrari – had better years than
previous, but they were the outliers. – Chris Thompson
M HOTSOURCE.HOT SOURCE.FASTCARGUIDEFAST CAR GUIDE POWERED BY
MODEL TESTED PRICE ENGINE KW/RPM NM/RPM DRIVE KERB KG KW/TONNE 0-100 KM/H 0-400M FUEL CONS RATING
F-Type 2.0 $132,542 (8a) I4/2.0T 221/5500 400/1500 rear 1545 143 5.7 – 7.2 3.5 Takes the fight to the new Boxster flat-four, but is four cylinders enough for this cool cat?
F-Type V6 $146,742 (6m) $151,742 (8a) V6/3.0S 250/6500 450/3500 rear 1597 157 5.3 – 8.4 3.5 Throaty V6 snarl perfect for four-pot snobs. Extra weight means it’s only marginally faster
F-Type V6 S $174,242 (6m) $179,242 (8a) V6/3.0S 280/6500 460/3500 rear 1614 173 4.9 – 8.6 3.5 The 0-100km/h time slides under 5.0sec and the eight-speed auto remains the pick over manual
F-Type V6 S AWD $195,042 (8a) V6/3.0S 280/6500 460/3500 all 1694 165 5.1 – 8.9 4.0 All-weather F-Type doesn’t overstress the chassis, but it’s only six-tenths faster than the turbo four
F-Type V8 R AWD Sep 15 $271,542 (8a) V8/5.0S 404/6500 680/2500 all 1730 232 4.1 – 11.3 4.0 So much cooler than a Porsche Carrera cabriolet, but $272K is a huge amount of cash
F-Type V8 SVR Sep 16 $315,942 (8a) V8/5.0S 423/6500 700/3500 all 1720 246 3.7 – 11.3 4.0 First-row seats to the meanest-sounding V8 on sale – hold onto your toupees!
F-Pace 35t S Jul 16 $108,437 (8a) V6/3.0S 280/6500 450/4500 all 1861 151 5.5 – 8.9 4.0 Drives well and looks good, so it’s a shame the F-Type snarl has been muted
F-Pace SVR $140,262 (8a) V8/5.0S 404/6500 680/2500 all 2070 195 4.3 – 11.9 4.0 Superb V8 for not a lot more than XF Sportbrake, it’s no wonder people buy SUVs
I-Pace May 19 $124,100 (1a) Dual EM 294 696 all 2133 138 4.8 – – 4.0 Sexier than a Tesla Model X, with price and performance to match an Audi S4 Avant
Jeep www.jeep.com.au
Grand Cherokee S-Limited $71,450 (8a) V8/5.7 259/5900 520/4200 all 2302 113 – – 13.0 3.0 SRT-lite Grand Cherokee thunders with Hemi V8, but might struggle to get all that weight moving
Grand Cherokee SRT $91,450 (8a) V8/6.4 344/6250 624/4100 all 2289 150 4.9 – 14.0 3.5 Stonking engine is finally mated to an eight-speed auto; not the bargain it once was, though
Grand Cherokee Trackhawk Aug 18 $134,950 (8a) V8/6.2S 522/6000 868/4800 all 2399 218 3.70 11.80 16.8 4.0 Cheapest way to the 500kW club, though you’ll spend the rest on fuel bills
Kia www.kia.com.au
(▲$500) Rio GT-Line $23,590 (7dc) I3/1.0T 88/6600 172/1500 front 1176 75 – – 5.4 3.5 New turbo triple is a refreshing change from old 1.4-litre atmo, but still fails to inspire
Cerato GT Jul 19 $32,990 (7dc) I4/1.6T 150/6000 265/1500 front 1370 110 – – 6.8 3.5 Polished dynamics and turbo grunt, but ride is firm and engine sounds strained
Stinger 200 S $47,190 (8a) I4/2.0T 182/6200 353/1400 rear 1693 108 6.0 – 8.8 3.0 Alluring entry price for Korean Falcon EcoBoost, but why wouldn’t you extend to the twin-turbo V6?
Stinger GT-Line $56,290 (8a) I4/2.0T 182/6200 353/1400 rear 1693 108 6.0 – 8.8 3.5 Four-pot pick thanks to adaptive suspension and premo cabin. Misses out on an LSD and Brembos
Stinger 330 S Jul 18 $50,190 (8a) V6/3.3TT 272/6000 510/1300 rear 1780 153 5.07 13.26 10.2 3.5 Every V6 scores Brembos and LSD. The steering needs work and it isn’t all that polished
Stinger GT Feb 18 $60,790 (8a) V6/3.3TT 272/6000 510/1300 rear 1780 153 4.82 13.01 10.4 4.0 Adaptive suspension adds much-needed support to the chassis. Pick of the Stinger bunch
KTM www.simplysportscars.com
X-Bow R May 16 $169,990 (6m) I4/2.0T 220/6400 420/3200 rear 790 279 3.9 – 8.7 4.5 Literally face-peeling performance in a package that’s not exactly a pragmatic choice
X-Bow GT $189,990 (6m) I4/2.0T 220/6400 420/3200 rear 847 260 4.1 – 8.7 4.5 It adds a windscreen, but is still about as ‘GT’ as a turbocharged skateboard
Lamborghini www.lamborghini.com
Urus Apr 19 $390,000 (8a) V8/4.0TT 478/6000 850/2250 all 2200 217 3.6 12.8 12.7 4.0 Modern-day LM002 guaranteed to frighten the other parents on the school run
Huracan LP580-2 Jan 17 $378,900 (7dc) V10/5.2 427/8000 540/6500 rear 1389 307 3.55 11.25 14.3 4.5 More involving and playful than the LP610-4, but it still feels like it needs to be let off the leash
Huracan LP580-2 Spyder $429,000 (7dc) V10/5.2 427/8000 540/6500 rear 1509 283 3.6 – 14.5 4.5 The cheapest way to let that soaring V10 soundtrack into the cabin
Huracan LP610-4 Spyder Sep 16 $470,800 (7dc) V10/5.2 449/8250 560/6500 all 1542 291 3.4 – 14.6 4.5 Ultimate extrovert’s car with a fab noise. Ultimately it isn’t the purist’s choice given its heft
Huracan Evo Mar 19 $459,000 (7dc) V10/5.2 470/8000 600/6500 all 1422 331 2.9 – 13.9 4.5 More power, more aero and better handling ... has the ‘Baby Lambo’ just become the Raging Bull of choice?
Huracan Performante $483,866 (7dc) V10/5.2 470/8000 600/6500 all 1382 340 2.9 – 13.7 4.5 Hardcore Huracan matches Aventador’s performance, but at this price you could have a 488 GTB
Huracan Performante Spyder Apr 19 $532,635 (7dc) V10/5.2 470/8000 600/6500 all 1507 312 3.1 – 13.7 4.5 Performante says ‘hardcore’, but heavier Spyder barely quicker than Huracan LP610-4
Aventador S May 17 $788,914 (7s) V12/6.5 544/8400 690/5500 all 1575 346 2.9 – 16.9 4.0 S brings worthwhile upgrades to agility, brakes and ride, but gearbox remains a bugbear
PIPELINE HOT STUFF COMING SOON
2020 Q1 Fantastical four-litre roadster. Porsche 911 manual (992) Audi R8 RWD Spyder
Audi R8 V10 Performance Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 Self-shifting delight for new 911. BMW M2 CS
BMW 550i xDrive Skoda Kodiaq RS Porsche 911 Turbo (992) The M2 ultimate.
The baby M5. Volvo S60 T8 Polestar-tuned Next-level capability. Ferrari Roma
BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe Volvo V60 T8 Polestar-tuned 2020 H2 Maranello’s 911 fighter.
BMW M8 Volkswagen Golf GTI TCR Aston Martin DBX Hyundai i30 N dual-clutch
Ford Fiesta ST Sizzling GTI farewells Mk7 Golf. Gaydon enters its electric era. Long-awaited DCT to boost sales.
Ford Focus ST 2020 Q2 Alpina B3 S Touring Lexus LC500 Convertible
Ford Mustang R-Spec Audi S4 Audi SQ2 Maserati Levante GTS
Aussie-developed 500kW beast. Audi S6 Pipsqueak performance SUV. The Trident’s performance hero.
Ford Mustang GT MY20 Bentley Conti GT V8 Convertible Audi RS6/RS7 Sportback Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series
Mercedes-AMG A45 Tanning-booth opulence. Audi RS Q3 The ultimate AMG badge returns.
Mini Cooper JCW GP BMW M8 Gran Coupe Audi RS Q8 Porsche Taycan
High hopes for a return to form. Four-door GT express. Audi R8 RWD Subaru WRX
Porsche 718 Boxster Spyder Lambo Huracan Evo Spyder Rear-wheel drive here for good. Volkswagen Golf Mk8
Research your next new car at whichcar.com.au
JAGUAR – MERCEDES-BENZ
MODEL TESTED PRICE ENGINE KW/RPM NM/RPM DRIVE KERB KG KW/TONNE 0-100 KM/H 0-400M FUEL CONS RATING
Aventador S Roadster $825,530 (7s) V12/6.5 544/8400 690/5500 all 1625 335 3.0 – 16.9 4.0 Will make you feel a million bucks, which is just as well as that’s basically what it costs
Aventador SVJ $949,640 (7s) V12/6.5 566/8500 720/6750 all 1525 371 2.8 – – 4.5 Hard to tame, but epic potency and amazing soundtrack worth the challenge (and then some)
Lexus www.lexus.com.au
IS350 F Sport Dec 14 $72,522 (8a) V6/3.5 233/6400 378/4800 rear 1685 138 6.10 14.10 9.7 3.5 Great value, enjoyable dynamics and a responsive V6 is tied to an intrusive ESP and old engine tech
GS350 F Sport $94,582 (6a) V6/3.5 232/6400 380/4800 rear 1745 133 6.0 – 9.3 3.0 Surprisingly capable chassis takes the Euros on. Hyper-responsive steering misses the mark
GS F Feb 17 $155,582 (8a) V8/5.0 351/7100 530/4800 rear 1825 192 4.99 13.09 11.3 4.0 Has few direct rivals, and unique character makes it easy to excuse its handful of flaws
(▲$150) LS500 F Sport Aug 18 $190,292 (10a) V6/3.5TT 310/6000 600/1600 rear 2240 138 5.0 – 9.5 3.5 New turbo-torque king also drinks much less than LC’s V8, but when will LC get it?
(▲$150) LS500h F Sport Aug 18 $190,900 (4a) V6/3.5E 264/6600 350/5100 rear 2280 116 5.4 – 6.6 3.5 Prime efficiency, but a dreary power-to-weight ratio that barely matches a base RC
(▲$150) RC300 F Sport Feb 16 $74,321 (8a) I4/2.0T 180/5000 350/1650 rear 1620 111 7.0 – 7.5 3.0 Turbo four-pot is frugal and more flexible than V6 despite lacking pace and the V6’s chassis upgrades
(▲$150) RC350 F Sport Jan 18 $77,321 (8a) V6/3.5 233/6000 378/4800 rear 1680 139 6.42 14.41 12.15 3.5 Good value and entertaining rear-drive coupe; added LSD adds much-needed traction and agility
(▲$150) RC F Aug 19 $133,921 (8a) V8/5.0 351/7100 530/4800 rear 1780 197 4.5 – 11.2 3.5 Improved ride/handling thanks to revisions, and sounds great but not that fast, and interior feeling ancient
(▲$150) RC F Track Edition Jun 19 $165,482 (8a) V8/5.0 351/7100 530/4800 rear 1715 205 4.3 – 11.2 4.0 An unlikely prospect for a track-focused reinvention but looks and sounds the business
LC500 Feb 18 $189,792 (10a) V8/5.0 351/7100 540/4800 rear 1935 182 5.18 13.23 11.6 4.0 Concept-car looks, atmo V8 and lovely steering is let down by the chassis, ESC, weight and firm ride
(▲$250) LC500h Oct 17 $190,500 (4a) V6/3.5E 264/6600 348/4900 rear 1985 134 5.0 – 6.7 3.0 Near half the V8’s fuel usage, but feels slower than it is and it’s missing the NASCAR-like soundtrack
Lotus www.lotuscars.com.au
Elise Sport 220 $87,990 (6m) I4/1.8S 162/6800 250/4600 rear 904 179 4.6 – 7.5 4.0 A terrific drive made even better by supercharging. A car that’s hard to get out of – literally
Elise Sprint 220 Dec 18 $97,990 (6m) I4/1.8S 162/6800 250/4600 rear 878 185 4.5 – 7.5 4.0 Appealing mini-supercar vibes, but an extra $10K for a 26kg diet seems exxy
Elise Cup 250 $107,990 (6m) I4/1.8S 181/7200 250/3500 rear 917 197 4.3 – 7.5 3.5 More hardcore than a Cayman for similar coin
Exige Sport 350 Coupe $139,500 (6m) V6/3.5S 258/7000 400/4500 rear 1125 229 3.9 – 10.1 4.0 Cheapest ticket to supercar power-to-weight ratios. Just don’t expect it to be a daily driver
Exige Sport 350 Roadster $139,500 (6m) V6/3.5S 258/7000 400/4500 rear 1115 231 3.9 – 10.1 4.0 Pop-top barely compromises the Exige’s ferocity, meaning it remains a hardcore proposition
Exige Sport 410 Coupe $159,990 (6m) V6/3.5S 306/7000 420/3000 rear 1110 276 3.4 – 10.4 4.0 Hardcore driving experience and supercar-fast, but tricky at the limit
Exige Sport 410 Roadster $159,990 (6m) V6/3.5S 306/7000 420/3000 rear 1110 276 3.4 – 10.4 4.0 Same-price roadster mixes open-top driving with coupe-rigid dynamic thrills
Exige Cup 430 $199,990 (6m) V6/3.5S 320/7000 440/2600 rear 1093 293 3.3 – – 4.0 Huge price for a basic and small coupe, but an incredible turn of speed for the price
Evora GT410 Sport Jul 19 $179,990 (6m) $181,990 (6a) V6/3.5S 306/7000 410/3500 rear 1325 231 4.2 – 9.7 4.5 Brilliant driving experience, fine day-to-day manners and much cheaper than before
Evora GT430 Sport Nov 18 $239,990 (6m) V6/3.5S 320/7000 440/4500 rear 1289 248 3.8 – 10.1 3.5 Wedges powered-up Elise engine into larger, but stripped-out Lotus GT
Evora GT430 Aug 18 $259,990 (6m) V6/3.5S 320/7000 440/4500 rear 1299 246 3.7 – 10.1 3.5 20-way adjustable suspension and carbonfibre buckets top off priciest Lotus
Maserati www.maserati.com.au
Ghibli $139,990 (8a) V6/3.0TT 257/5500 500/4500 rear 1810 142 5.6 – 9.6 3.0 Great looks and alluring engine note but we still haven’t driven it locally
Ghibli S $175,990 (8a) V6/3.0TT 321/5500 580/2250 rear 1810 166 4.9 – 9.6 3.5 High-tune twin-turbo V6 gives the Ghibli real punch and sits in an unusual spot in the market
Levante S $164,990 (8a) V6/3.0TT 316/5750 580/1750 all 2109 150 5.2 – 10.9 3.5 Maserati offers Aussie buyers the petrol power its SUV deserves
Levante GTS $265,000 (8a) V8/3.8TT 404/6250 730/2500 all 2170 186 4.2 – 13.5 4.0 Ferrari-powered Levante is finally an appealing, if pricey, alternative to other small super-SUVs
Levante Trofeo $330,000 (8a) V8/3.8TT 434/6250 730/2500 all 2170 200 3.9 – 13.5 4.0 Feels proper fast, but maybe not fast enough for this sort of money
Quattroporte Diesel $209,990 (8a) V6/3.0TD 202/4000 600/2000 rear 1945 104 6.4 – 6.2 3.5 Grunty and frugal, with plenty of presence but unlikely to stir the soul
Quattroporte $214,990 (8a) V6/3.0TT 257/5500 500/1750 rear 1900 128 5.5 – 9.1 3.5 A quick, classy and cheaper alternative to a Porsche Panamera that deserves more power
Quattroporte S $239,000 (8a) V6/3.0TT 321/5500 580/2250 rear 1860 173 5.0 – 9.3 3.5 Twin-turbo V6 matches old V8 for grunt, but it feels its size and the V8 is more appealing
Quattroporte GTS GranSport $299,990 (8a) V8/3.8TT 395/6800 650/2000 rear 1951 200 4.7 – 10.7 3.0 Turbo V8 has mega mumbo and a classy interior ... and so it should for the price.
GranTurismo MC Sportline $345,000 (6s) V8/4.7 338/7000 520/4750 rear 1880 187 4.7 – 15.5 3.5 Drop-dead gorgeous coupe finally gets extra grunt. More of a grand tourer than proper sportscar
GranCabrio Sport $335,000 (6a) V8/4.7 338/7000 520/4750 rear 1980 171 5.0 – 14.5 3.5 Made for a coastal road, not a racetrack
GranCabrio Sport MC $355,000 (6s) V8/4.7 338/7000 520/4750 rear 1973 171 4.9 – 14.9 3.0 ‘MC’ shifts the trans rearward and cuts shift times. Will any Cabrio drivers feel the difference?
Mazda www.mazda.com.au
3 G25 GT $33,490 (6m) $34,490 (6a) I4/2.5 139/6000 252/4000 front 1339 104 – – 6.2 3.5 Next-generation Mazda3 is a crucial car for the Oz market – we’re keen to drive the sportiest version
MX-5 $35,390 (6m) $37,390 (6a) I4/1.5 97/7000 152/4500 rear 1021 95 – – 6.2 4.0 Superb dynamics matched with lightness and a keen engine – but larger folk will struggle
MX-5 GT Jul 19 $43,320 (6m) $45,320 (6a) I4/2.0 135/7000 205/4000 rear 1035 130 6.37 14.54 6.8 4.0 Powered- and revved-up 2.0-litre distances itself from 1.5-litre, but it now starts with pricey GT
MX-5 RF Oct 18 $40,700 (6m) $42,700 (6a) I4/2.0 135/7000 205/4000 rear 1087 124 6.55 14.65 6.9 4.0 Hardtop adds class and coupe looks ... along with a bit more weight
MX-5 RF GT $47,400 (6m) $49,400 (6a) I4/2.0 135/7000 205/4000 rear 1112 121 – – 6.9 4.0 GT hardtop stacks up as the most premium pick, hence it comes with a significant sticker price
McLaren www.cars.mclaren.com
540C Nov 17 $350,000 (7dc) V8/3.8TT 397/7500 540/3500 rear 1311 303 3.5 – 11.1 4.0 Supercar price leader that hits 200km/h in 10.5sec, yet it still lacks a little soul and interior options
570S Jul 17 $395,000 (7dc) V8/3.8TT 419/7500 600/5000 rear 1344 312 3.2 – 10.7 4.5 Insane performance and involving dynamics. It’s a shame it doesn’t ride as well as the 720S
570S Spider Oct 17 $435,750 (7dc) V8/3.8TT 419/7500 600/5000 rear 1359 280 3.2 – 10.7 4.5 Structural rigidity claimed to be unchanged from coupe. Hefty premium to be able to remove the roof
570GT $415,000 (7dc) V8/3.8TT 419/7500 600/5000 rear 1381 303 3.4 – 10.7 4.5 Best-looking Sport Series, with extra luggage space and slightly softer responses than 570S
GT Nov 19 $399,995 (7dc) V8/4.0TT 456/7500 630/5500 rear 1530 304 3.2 – 11.9 4.0 It’s more practical than a ‘regular’ McLaren but still no proper GT like the 911 Turbo
600LT Aug 19 $455,000 (7dc) V8/3.8TT 441/7500 620/5500 rear 1356 325 2.9 – – 4.5 720S pace for $35K less, but are they too close? McLaren claims it corners harder than old 675LT
720S Mar 18 $489,900 (7dc) V8/4.0TT 530/7500 770/5500 rear 1419 374 2.9 – 12.2 4.5 Otherworldly speed matched to outstanding dynamics. If only it sounded better
720S Spider $556,000 (7dc) V8/4.0TT 530/7500 770/5500 rear 1468 361 2.9 – 12.2 4.5 Weight increase is marginal over the coupe, and the chassis remains just as rigid with the carbon tub
Mercedes-Benz www.mercedes-benz.com.au
A250 $48,800 (7dc) I4/2.0T 165/5800 350/1800 front 1380 119 6.2 – – 4.0 Cheaper than ever, and front-drive is as fast as AWD, but torsion beam rear replaces multi-link
A250 4Matic Feb 19 $55,500 (7dc) I4/2.0T 165/5800 350/1800 all 1430 115 6.2 – 6.2 3.5 A smartphone on wheels, but kerb weight is up and power below average for this price
d motorofficial f motor_ mag 123
M HOTSOURCE.HOT SOURCE.FASTCARGUIDEFAST CAR GUIDE MERCEDES-BENZ – NISSAN
MODEL TESTED PRICE ENGINE KW/RPM NM/RPM DRIVE KERB KG KW/TONNE 0-100 KM/H 0-400M FUEL CONS RATING
A35 AMG Aug 19 $67,200 (7dc) I4/2.0T 225/5800 400/3000 all 1480 152 4.7 – 7.3 4.0 Accessible performance but hardly game-changing in face of the Civic Type R or Golf R. Still, underrated
A35 AMG Sedan $69,800 (7dc) I4/2.0T 225/5800 400/3000 all 1495 151 4.8 – 7.3 4.0 Same as above, only packaged in sleeker sedan body. We’d prefer the hatch for practicality
CLA250 4Matic $68,800 (7dc) I4/2.0T 165/5500 350/1800 all 1475 112 6.3 – 6.5 3.5 Classy looks, decent powertrain and lots of tech help justify pricey tag
CLA35 $83,400 (7dc) I4/2.0T 225/5800 400/3000 all 1515 149 4.7 – 7.3 4.0 A35’s respectable performance wrapped in a more stylish, swoopy package
C43 AMG Jun 17 $109,740 (9a) V6/3.0TT 287/6100 520/2500 all 1630 176 4.7 – 9.1 4.0 A quick, comfortable and entertaining drive that’s more subdued than most AMGs – now with more grunt
C43 AMG Estate $112,240 (9a) V6/3.0TT 287/6100 520/2500 all 1685 170 4.8 – 9.3 4.0 Engaging chassis wrapped in a wagon package. Looks quite subtle, but then that could be a plus
C63 S AMG May 19 $165,140 (9a) V8/4.0TT 375/6250 700/1750 rear 1680 223 4.44 12.30 10.4 4.5 Amazing engine and brilliant chassis offset the terse ride and occasional gearbox stumble
C63 S AMG Estate Jan 16 $163,070 (9a) V8/4.0TT 375/6250 700/1750 rear 1725 217 4.0 – 8.7 4.5 The ultimate do-everything car, though it’s quite small in the back
C300 Coupe $85,500 (9a) I4/2.0T 180/5500 370/1300 rear 1490 121 6.0 – 6.6 3.5 A quality product and a decent steer. Less convinced about that rear styling
C43 AMG Coupe $113,840 (9a) V6/3.0TT 287/6100 520/2500 all 1675 171 4.7 – 9.2 4.0 The car you buy if the C63 feels a bit too full-on, and it would be the quicker car in the wet
C43 AMG Cabriolet $127,040 (9a) V6/3.0TT 287/6100 520/2500 all 1810 159 4.8 – 9.5 3.5 Solid mix of class and performance; hefty price tag, though
C63 S AMG Coupe Aug 19 $167,640 (9a) V8/4.0TT 375/6250 700/1750 rear 1725 217 4.56 12.48 8.7 4.5 Thunderous power and engaging handling, but pricier than rivals and a heavy so-and-so
C63 S AMG Cabriolet $185,940 (9a) V8/4.0TT 375/6250 700/1750 rear 1850 202 4.1 – 9.3 4.5 Front-row seats to hear AMG’s thumping 4.0-litre eight. Not the keenest handler of the C63 bunch
E53 AMG $169,940 (9a) I6/3.0TT(E) 320/6100 520/1800 all – – 4.4 – 8.7 4.0 Plenty of pace and stunning interior, but it doesn’t feel very ‘AMG’
E63 AMG Feb 18 $213,540 (9a) V8/4.0TT 420/5750 750/2250 all 1950 216 3.5 – 9.3 4.5 If you’re not interested in Drift Mode, the base E63 could be all the super sedan you need
E63 S AMG Feb 18 $243,340 (9a) V8/4.0TT 450/5750 850/2500 all 1955 230 3.40 11.28 9.3 4.5 The prototypical super sedan lacks only a smidge of refinement
E53 AMG Coupe Dec 18 $175,740 (9a) I6/3.0TT(E) 320/6100 520/1800 all 1895 169 4.53 12.68 8.7 4.0 New inline-six as smooth as the styling, plus it’s among the first AMGs to get an electric kick
E53 AMG Cabriolet $184,540 (9a) I6/3.0TT(E) 320/6100 520/1800 all 1980 162 4.5 – 8.7 3.5 Introduction of ‘53’ cab and coupe make for the quickest two-door E-Class AMGs
CLS450 Sep 18 $158,340 (9a) I6/3.0TT 270/6100 500/1600 all 1940 165 4.8 – 7.8 3.5 Great car, gorgeous interior, swift acceleration, but handling tuned for the mass market, not the enthusiast
CLS53 AMG Apr 18 $182,740 (9a) I6/3.0TT(E) 336/6100 520/1800 all 1980 162 4.5 – 8.7 4.0 Beautiful interior and eye-catching looks backed by high-tech new inline-six
S450 L $230,240 (9a) I6/3.0TT 270/6000 520/2000 rear 1940 134 5.1 – 6.9 4.5 Incredible fuel economy from new mild hybrid inline-six
S560 $277,740 (9a) V8/4.0TT 345/5250 700/2000 rear 1970 169 4.7 – 8.2 4.5 The world’s best limousine, with incredible tech and interior. You might enjoy it more in the back seat
S560 L Jul 18 $303,440 (9a) V8/4.0TT 345/5250 700/2000 rear 1995 167 4.7 – 8.2 4.5 More rear-seat room for ultimate passenger comfort. Sadly, a chauffeur doesn’t come standard
S63 AMG L Nov 18 $385,040 (9a) V8/4.0TT 450/6000 900/2750 rear 2070 217 4.18 12.04 – 4.0 Autobahn-crusher, with epic torque from 4.0-litre V8. Shame there’s no AWD option
S650 Maybach $436,440 (7a) V12/6.0TT 463/5000 1000/2300 rear 2285 196 4.7 – 12.7 4.0 Revisions bring the full-fat S65-spec engine, but two-tone paintwork in questionable taste
S560 Coupe $320,140 (9a) V8/4.0TT 345/5500 700/2000 rear 2000 160 4.6 – 8.5 4.5 The ultimate grand tourer – first-class ground-based travel
S560 Cabriolet $342,340 (9a) V8/4.0TT 345/5500 700/2000 rear 2075 159 4.6 – 9.9 4.5 Vitamin-D exposure in opulent style, though it’s very showy
S63 AMG Coupe $376,740 (9a) V8/4.0TT 450/6000 900/2750 rear 1995 220 – – 9.0 4.5 Brutal acceleration and polished dynamics matched by stunning interior and ride comfort
S63 AMG Cabriolet $406,540 (9a) V8/4.0TT 450/6000 900/2750 rear 2110 209 – – 10.2 4.0 Hell-raising acceleration and gorgeous looks, but don’t get too enthusiastic in the bends
GT53 AMG $251,540 (9a) I6/3.0TT(E) 320/6100 770/1800 all 1970 162 4.5 – 9.1 3.5 Cheapest ticket to AMG 4-door town, but you’ll forever be answering why you didn’t buy the V8
GT63 S AMG Aug 19 $351,640 (7a) V8/4.0TT 463/6500 800/2300 all 2025 229 3.4 – 11.1 4.5 AMG has bolted wheels to a Tomahawk cruise missile; this car will still be spoken about in 50 years
SLC43 AMG Dec 16 $137,740 (9a) V6/3.0TT 270/6000 520/2000 rear 1520 178 4.7 – 7.8 3.0 Brilliant drivetrain and strong brakes tied to unforgiving ride quality and wooden steering
SL500 $286,340 (9a) V8/4.7TT 335/5250 700/1800 rear 1720 187 4.3 – 9.1 3.0 Fantastic engine and sleeker looks undermined by previous-gen interior and body wobbles
SL63 AMG $370,530 (7a) V8/5.5TT 430/5500 900/2250 rear 1770 243 4.1 – 10.1 4.0 Perfect combination of performance and luxury despite some creaks from the bodyshell
AMG GT S Ann 17 $311,142 (7dc) V8/4.0TT 384/6250 670/1800 rear 1570 255 3.8 – 9.4 4.5 Chassis revisions and extra power finally fulfill the GT S’s potential
AMG GT C Feb 19 $329,843 (7dc) V8/4.0TT 410/6750 680/1900 rear 1625 252 3.66 11.55 11.4 4.5 Monster performance for those who find the GT R a bit ostentatious
AMG GT R Jun 19 $361,042 (7dc) V8/4.0TT 430/6250 700/1900 rear 1555 277 3.6 – 11.4 4.5 AMG GT in its ultimate form, yet ride also improved. This or a 911 GT3?
AMG GT C Roadster Jun 17 $355,242 (7dc) V8/4.0TT 410/6750 680/1900 rear 1660 247 3.7 – 11.4 4.5 Steals choice bits from the GT R to create one hell of a drop-top experience
GLA45 AMG Jan 15 $89,840 (7dc) I4/2.0T 280/6000 475/2250 all 1510 175 4.4 – 7.5 4.0 Roomier and more comfortable than the lumpy A45, but it isn’t particularly attractive
GLC43 AMG $109,900 (9a) V6/3.0TT 270/6000 520/2000 all 1855 146 4.9 – 8.8 3.5 We’d buy a C43, but most people will probably buy this. Strong engine
GLC43 AMG Coupe $117,400 (9a) V6/3.0TT 270/6000 520/2000 all 1855 146 4.9 – 8.8 3.5 $7500 premium over GLC43 in the pursuit of questionable style ... we’d choose a C43 Estate?
GLC63 S AMG $161,000 (9a) V8/4.0TT 375/5500 700/1750 all 1935 194 3.8 – 10.7 4.0 Sprog-hauling and supercar-chasing talents, but the dynamics aren’t a patch on a Macan
GLC63 S AMG Coupe Jul 18 $168,100 (9a) V8/4.0TT 375/5500 700/1750 all 1945 192 3.92 12.05 10.9 4.0 Engaging wagon on stilts is easier on the eye, but tall rear passengers won’t be so impressed
GLE63 S AMG Coupe $203,470 (7a) V8/5.5TT 430/5500 760/1750 all 2275 189 4.2 – 11.9 3.5 A car that you really don’t want to like, until you drive it and experience its pace
(▲$4430) G63 AMG Apr 19 $251,400 (9a) V8/4.0TT 430/6000 850/2500 all 2485 173 4.5 – 13.1 3.0 New chassis and 850Nm 4.0-litre, old looks and side pipes
MINI www.mini.com.au
Cooper S Jun 18 $40,700 (6m) $43,500 (7dc) I4/2.0T 141/6000 (300)/1250 front 1195 118 6.8 – 6.3 3.5 Solves all the old model’s problems, but creates a new one ... it’s not as engaging. Needs better tyres
Cooper S 5-door $41,950 (6m) $44,750 (7dc) I4/2.0T 141/6000 (300)/1250 front 1255 112 6.9 – 6.4 3.5 A smaller alternative to a VW Golf GTI, but yet further away from the original ‘mini’ ethos
Cooper S Convertible $48,700 (7dc) I4/2.0T 141/6000 (300)/1250 front 1295 109 7.2 – 6.5 3.5 More practical and a better drive than the old Cabrio. But that’s not saying an awful lot
Cooper S Clubman Feb 16 $45,900 (6m/8a) I4/2.0T 141/6000 (300)/1250 front 1360 104 7.1 – 6.0 3.5 Smart interior and supple chassis, but extra heft burdens the poor 2.0-litre. Then there’s the weird looks...
Cooper S Countryman $49,200 (8a) I4/2.0T 141/6000 (300)/1250 front 1505 94 7.4 – 6.5 3.5 Surprisingly cohesive looks, with extra practicality. It’s not very mini, or overly fast, and it is heavy
Cooper JCW Aug 16 $50,400 (6m) $53,350 (8a) I4/2.0T 170/6000 320/1250 front 1220 139 6.3 – 6.9 3.0 More power and playful handling, but the steering’s iffy, the ride is firm and it is expensive
JCW GP $63,900 (8a) I4/2.0T 225/6250 450/1750 front 1550 145 5.2 – 7.3 4.0 The ultimate Mini returns, claimed to lap the Nurburgring North Loop in less than eight minutes
Cooper JCW Convertible $58,400 (8a) I4/2.0T 170/6000 320/1250 front 1320 129 6.6 – 7.0 3.5 Drop-top suits the Mini vibe and it’s combined with strong performance – sadly, handling is diluted
Cooper JCW Clubman $56,900 (8a) I4/2.0T 170/6000 350/1250 all 1490 114 7.13 14.91 7.2 3.5 Clubman chassis scores the power it deserves, but not sure it’s enough for the weighty beast
Cooper JCW Countryman Nov 17 $59,900 (8a) I4/2.0T 170/6000 350/1250 all 1555 109 6.5 – 7.4 3.5 Mini with the lot gains a maxi price tag. Clubman is much cooler, cheaper and lighter
Morgan www.morgancars.com.au
4/4 $94,000 (5m) I4/1.6 82/6000 132/5800 rear 795 103 8.0 – 6.4 3.0 Ye olde charm and definitely a unique drive experience. You’re essentially buying a brand-new antique
3 Wheeler Apr 16 $107,000 (5m) V2/2.0 60/5250 140/3250 rear 550 220 6.0 – 9.3 3.5 An utterly unique car to be behind the wheel of. You’re either going to love it or hate it
Plus 4 $105,000 (5m) I4/2.0 115/6000 201/4500 rear 877 117 7.3 – 7.0 3.0 It’s all about living in the past while being in the future, something that can be an acquired taste
Roadster $145,00 (6m) V6/3.7 209/6000 370/4700 rear 950 220 5.5 – 9.8 3.0 Power-to-weight rivals a 911 Carrera S. However, you’d really have to love it to live with it
Nissan www.nissan.com.au
Juke Nismo RS Dec 18 $37,790 (6m) $41,490 (cvt) I4/1.6T 160/6000 280/3600 front 1281 125 – – 7.2 2.5 Late to the party and priced way too high. Can’t compete with hot hatches for dynamics either
370Z Apr 19 $50,490(6m) $52,990 (7a) V6/3.7 245/7000 363/5200 rear 1468 162 5.85 14.04 10.4 3.5 Now old, but latest in a long line of Z-cars. Still has an agricultural engine and snappy handling
124 january 2020 whichcar.com.au/motor
“I REALISED THAT THIS
JOYLESS LITTLE BLOB WAS THE
POD-MACHINE OF THE CAR WORLD”
David Morley
GOT A NEW COFFEE MACHINE a while back. It’s not that I’m a coffee things right up and turn a cupful of wonder into a putrid chalice of
snob (although I’ve lived in Melbourne for 35 years), but I don’t really see disappointment. Which is great, if only because there’s a huge sense of
the point in drinking that instant, granulated swill (or worse, the coffee- achievement when you get it right. Maybe not for a proper barista, but for
coloured dust variety) when real coffee is not exactly rocket surgery. a dill like me who still thinks of a hammer as an integral part of any socket
So, what level of sophistication in a coffee machine do we need at 13 set, producing coffee that doesn’t stain the ceiling remains a big win.
Struggle Street? The dolphin-hugger in me can’t reconcile those pod (not It’s this sense of victory that still draws me to cars with a certain degree
a dolphin-based pun) machines that, even though they’re convenient and of manual operation and analogue feedback. It’s why I’ll still take a
available with lots of grind and flavour combinations, leave a deadly trail of conventional three-pedal manual over any other arrangement, because I
quasi-metallic, squished pods that have a half-life like a Chernobyl Camry. still get to grin when I’ve made the perfect heel-toe downshift. I still want
Personally, I favoured one of those machines you see in old-school to feel what the front (and rear) tyres are doing and I don’t mind at all if I
Greek and Italian cafes with a row of little cups on the top, a bunch of can hear the exhaust note as an indicator of throttle position.
brass levers and steam gauges, and a dirty big chrome eagle right on top Driving a compact SUV the other day (in the name of science) I was
to guard the little cups. These things are, however, bigger than my actual amazed how numb and featureless it felt. The ride was awful yet it still
kitchen. And they cost about the same as that glow-in-the-dark Camry. body-rolled, and the CVT transmission, although very efficient, was clearly
Eventually, we settled on a machine small enough to fit in the corner, unconcerned about improving my experience beyond saving a few drops
but still with a proper high-pressure frother, a grinder that works in real of fuel. Then there was autonomous braking, lane-keeping and active
time so the beans are always freshly brutalised and, crucially, a pressure cruise to relieve you of any obligation to think about actually driving. This
gauge (the tappet-head in me refused to negotiate on that point). joyless little blob did the job without fuss and was certainly about as idiot-
Which means there’s still a fair bit of human involvement in turning proof as a car could be, mainly by depriving the driver of any real ability to
coffee beans into a life-saving pre-brunch beverage. You have to judge control the action beyond the vague direction of travel.
the grind size and volume based on what particular little brown pellets Which is when I realised that this thing was the pod-machine of the car
are waltzing around the hopper at the time, and get the temperature and world. And as such should really be inserted into a slot and crushed. Or –
froth of the milk spot on without burning it or turning it into cheese. Oh, and I’m not fussy – placed in the hopper of a big, steam-powered mutha
and did you know long-life milk froths better because, at a molecular with a giant eagle on top, ground to atoms and drowned in boiling water.
level, it has a longer protein strand? Who said I’m not a man of science? Frothy milk optional.
The point of all this is that you still have the opportunity to bugger Satisfaction takes many forms around here.
d motorofficial f motor_ mag 125
M HOTSOURCE.HOT SOURCE.FASTCARGUIDEFAST CAR GUIDE NISSAN – RENAULT
MODEL TESTED PRICE ENGINE KW/RPM NM/RPM DRIVE KERB KG KW/TONNE 0-100 KM/H 0-400M FUEL CONS RATING
370Z Roadster Jun 18 $61,490 (6m) $63,990 (7a) V6/3.7 245/7000 363/5200 rear 1478 168 5.8 – 10.9* 3.0 Suffers little in the conversion to drop-top, but $11K for a creaky roof is too much
370Z Nismo Jul 18 $61,990 (6m) $64,490 (7a) V6/3.7 253/7000 371/5200 rear 1480 171 5.87 14.07 10.6 3.5 A visual and aural refresh courtesy of Nismo. Performance suspension lacks sophistication
GT-R Premium $193,800 (6dc) V6/3.8TT 419/6800 632/3300 all 1765 237 3.20 11.21 11.7 4.0 Improved ride and transmission tweaks for MY20 are welcome, feels suited to the street more than ever
GT-R Track Edition Nov 16 $235,000 (6dc) V6/3.8TT 419/6800 632/3300 all 1760 238 2.7 – 11.7 4.0 In a track environment, it’s simply awesome. Question marks remain over road suitability
GT-R Nismo Ann 19 $378,000 (6dc) V6/3.8TT 441/6800 652/3600 all 1715 257 3.14 11.04 11.7 4.0 There’s the Track Edition, and then there’s this. However the MY20’s price is verging on ridiculous
Peugeot www.peugeot.com.au
208 GTi Edition Definitive Nov 18 $33,990 DA (6m) I4/1.6T 153/6000 300/3000 front – – 6.5 – – 3.5 Final 20 units of production mix LSD with wide front track for Polo GTI DSG pricing
308 GTi Sport $42,990 (6m) I4/1.6T 200/6000 330/1900 front 1205 166 – – 6.0 4.0 Limited to just 20 units, Sport adds bodykit and metallic paint yet deletes $3000 off base price
308 GTi 270 Oct 18 $45,990 (6m) I4/1.6T 200/6000 330/1900 front 1205 166 5.99 14.04 6.0 4.0 Oft-overlooked hot hatch offers impressive performance
Porsche www.porsche.com.au
718 Cayman Ann 16 $116,000 (6m) $118,690 (7dc) F4/2.0T 220/6500 380/1950 rear 1335 165 5.1 – 7.4 4.5 Porsche’s entry sportscar sets the bar high, but it’s hardly a cheap deal in anyone’s language
718 Cayman S Feb 18 $146,200 (6m) $151,290 (7dc) F4/2.5T 257/6500 420/1900 rear 1355 190 3.95 12.02 8.1 4.5 An almost flawless sports car that only struggles to stir the emotions
718 Cayman GTS $173,810 (6m) $179,790 (7dc) F4/2.5T 269/6500 420/1900 rear 1375 191 4.6 – 9.0 4.5 Optional PDK and Sport Chrono equals 4.1sec 0-100km/h. A lot of coin for an average-sounding four
718 Cayman GT4 Aug 19 $218,400 (6m) F6/4.0 309/7600 420/5000 rear 1420 217 4.4 – 10.9 5.0 Not as special as the old one but still utterly brilliant
718 Boxster Jun 16 $118,200 (6m) $121,490 (7dc) F4/2.0T 220/6500 380/1950 rear 1335 165 4.7* – 6.9* 4.5 Turbo grunt means base Boxster will offer more than enough performance for most
718 Boxster S Jun 16 $149,000 (6m) $154,090 (7dc) F4/2.5T 257/6500 420/1900 rear 1355 190 4.2* – 7.3* 4.5 Approaching supercar speed with beautiful chassis balance. Now much more expensive than it was
718 Boxster GTS $176,600 (6m) $182,590 (7dc) F4/2.5T 269/6500 420/1900 rear 1375 191 4.6 – 9.0 4.5 Looks the biz with black exterior and Alcantara interior trim. Enters the realm of ‘serious’ money
718 Boxster Spyder $209,500 (6m) F6/4.0 309/7600 420/5000 rear 1420 217 4.4 – 10.9 5.0 With a chassis that’s just as good as the GT4’s, this is open-top motoring at its finest
911 Carrera $229,500 (8dc) F6/3.0TT 283/6500 450/1950 rear 1505 188 4.2 – 9.4 4.5 The entry ticket into the 992 series range is slightly more expensive but no less sublime
911 Carrera 4 $245,600 (8dc) F6/3.0TT 283/6500 450/1950 all 1555 182 4.2 – 9.5 4.0 Extra grip cancels out the extra weight but the experience is not as pure
911 Carrera S Mar 19 $264,600 (8dc) F6/3.0TT 331/6500 530/2300 rear 1515 218 3.5 – – 4.5 All-new 992 delivers increased comfort, handling and speed, though no manual (yet!)
911 Carrera 4S $280,700 (8dc) F6/3.0TT 331/6500 530/2300 all 1565 212 3.4 – – 4.5 All-wheel drive emphasises weight gain; we say grab the rear-drive one
911 Carrera Cabriolet $251,100 (8dc) F6/3.0TT 283/6500 450/1950 rear 1575 180 4.4 – 9.6 4.0 Less than half as stiff as the coupe but still a damn fine driving experience
911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet $267,100 (8dc) F6/3.0TT 283/6500 450/1950 all 1625 174 4.4 – 9.6 4.5 Seriously versatile with all-wheel drive but $267K buys you a lot in Jaguar’s F-Type range
911 Carrera S Cabriolet $286,100 (8dc) F6/3.0TT 331/6500 530/2300 rear 1585 209 3.7 – – 4.5 Even new Cabriolet can’t dent epic performance previously the domain of Porsche GT models
911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet $302,200 (8dc) F6/3.0TT 331/6500 530/2300 all 1635 202 3.6 – – 4.5 Tips the $300K mark, and we’d rather a GT3 Touring for this coin (for the resale, too)
911 GT3 RS Apr 19 $415,700 (7dc) F6/4.0 383/8250 470/6000 rear 1430 249 3.2 – 12.8 5.0 New engine and Weissach Package makes the ultimate track 911 even more hardcore
911 Speedster Jul 19 $604,800 (6m) F6/4.0 375/8400 470/6250 rear 1465 256 4.0 – – 4.5 An incredible driving machine, but you’d have to love the looks to pay twice GT3 money
Panamera 4E-Hybrid $249,900 (8dc) V6/2.9TT[E] 340 700 all 2170 157 4.6 – 2.5 4.0 Hybrid limo allows zero-emissions commuting without paying a performance penalty
Panamera 4S Apr 17 $313,100 (8dc) V6/2.9TT 324/6600 550/1750 all 1870 173 4.4 – 8.2 4.0 Stuttgart’s fresh limo doesn’t hang around. All-wheel drive is of questionable relevance in Oz
Panamera 4E-H Sport Turismo $257,200 (8dc) V6/2.9TT[E] 340 700 all 2190 155 4.6 – 2.6 4.0 Porsche performance, family practicality, miniscule running costs – the perfect daily car?
Panamera 4S Sport Turismo Oct 17 $320,400 (8dc) V6/2.9TT 324/6600 550/1750 all 1915 169 4.4 – 8.3 4.0 A good-looking Panamera! And it can seat five, though you might need to ditch the rugrats to buy one
Panamera GTS $363,700 (8dc) V8/4.0TT 338/6000 620/1800 all 1995 169 4.1 10.3 4.0 No more high-rev natural aspiration here, but two-tonne Pana likely all the better for it
Panamera GTS Sport Turismo $371,000 (8dc) V8/4.0TT 338/6000 620/1800 all 2035 166 4.1 10.6 4.0 A mix of prettiness, practicality and performance only challenged by an RS6. Or Pana Turbo...
Panamera Turbo Apr 17 $383,700 (8dc) V8/4.0TT 404/5750 770/1960 all 1995 191 3.8 – 9.4 4.0 Crushing on-paper performance and cosseting luxury. Yes, it’s lighter, but still a big bertha
Panamera Turbo Sport Turismo Nov 18 $389,900 (8dc) V8/4.0TT 404/5750 770/1960 all 2035 188 3.38 11.49 9.5 4.0 For the family who wants to dominate the local car park
Panamera Turbo E-Hybrid Oct 17 $463,200 (8dc) V8/4.0TT[E] 500/6000 850/1400 all 2310 216 3.4 – 2.2 4.0 Scarcely believable performance/economy. All that hybrid gear adds 315kg over a Panamera Turbo
Panamera Turbo S E-H. S. Turismo $469,500 (8dc) V8/4.0TT[E] 500/6000 850/1400 all 2325 215 3.4 – 3.0 4.0 Hyper-wagon with green credentials, but $500K is a lot for a 2325kg family car
Macan Turbo $142,000 (8dc) V6/2.9TT 324/5700 550/1800 all 1945 167 4.5 – 10.0 4.0 Refreshed Macan adopts new hot vee twin-turbo V6 but fails to match rivals on outputs
Cayenne S Jun 19 $154,300 (8a) V6/2.9TT 324/5700 550/1800 all 2020 160 5.2 – 9.2 4.0 New 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 as fast as old Cayenne GTS, and now lighter and slightly cheaper
Cayenne S Coupe $166,200 (8a) V6/2.9TT 324/5700 550/1800 all 2120 153 5.0 – 9.2 4.0 Claimed to be quicker than its five-door sibling despite being heavier and with no extra power
Cayenne Turbo Ann 18 $238,600 (8a) V8/4.0TT 404/5750 770/1960 all 2175 186 4.1 – 11.7 4.0 Continues to redefine physics to power oversteer the kids to school
Cayenne Turbo Coupe $253,6000 (8a) V8/4.0TT 404/5750 770/1960 all 2275 178 3.9 – 11.4 4.0 See above, just with a swoopy coupe-like design. Will be popular in suburbs like Toorak and Vaucluse
Range Rover www.landrover.com.au
Evoque P300 R-Dynamic $82,262 (9a) I4/2.0T 221/5500 400/1500 all 1850 120 6.6 – 8.1 3.5 All-new version of the baby Rangie now packs 221kW but has also put on the pounds
Velar R-Dynamic HSE $122,000 (8a) V6/3.0TD 221/4000 700/1500 all 1959 113 6.5 – 6.4 3.0 Rock-star styling crushes Macan with diesel torque and efficiency. Quite bare on standard equipment
Velar P380 R-Dynamic Feb 19 $128,172 (8a) V6/3.0S 280/6500 450/3500 all 1884 149 5.7 – 9.4 3.5 Surprisingly able at the limit and likes to oversteer, however a few options can put it in X3 M price territory
Sport HSE Dynamic $173,629 (8a) V8/5.0S 386/6500 625/2500 all 2323 166 – – 12.8 4.0 Great handling, wonderful engine and good looks. Some will see it as the poor man’s Range Rover
Sport Autobiography Dynamic $204,929 (8a) V8/5.0S 386/6500 625/2500 all 2323 166 – – 12.8 4.0 Drives like an enormous hot hatch. However, it’s thirsty and the off-road ability is wasted on most
Sport SVR $238,829 (8a) V8/5.0S 423/6500 700/2500 all 2310 183 4.5 – 12.8 3.5 Ludicrous acceleration with an anti-social exhaust noise. This performance-4x4 thing is a bit silly
SDV8 Autobiography Dec 18 $261,310 (8a) V8/4.4TTD 250/3500 740/1750 all 2504 100 6.9 – 8.4 4.0 Diesel V8 perfect fit for the Rangie’s calming character. Still incredibly big and heavy
V8 Autobiography Apr 18 $274,210 (8a) V8/5.0S 386/6500 625/2500 all 2383 162 5.4 – 12.8 4.0 Like an off-road S-Class with its incredible ride and feel-good factor. Fuel tank has a hole in it...
SV Autobiography Dynamic $346,170 (8a) V8/5.0S 415/6500 700/3500 all 2497 167 – – 12.8 3.5 Snarling F-Type engine adds plenty of theatre, but adds a confused personality and little speed
Renault www.renault.com.au
Clio RS 200 Sport $30,990 (6dc) I4/1.6T 147/6050 260/2000 front 1204 122 6.7 – 5.9 4.0 Still a favourite, gets chequered-flag DRLs and an extra 20Nm, but still no manual option
Clio RS 200 Cup $32,490 (6dc) I4/1.6T 147/6050 260/2000 front 1204 122 6.7 – 5.9 4.0 Likes to wag its tail and uses a zesty drivetrain. Sound is lacking and the shift paddles are poor
Megane GT Wagon $39,990 (7dc) I4/1.6T 151/6000 280/2400 front 1393 106 7.4 – 6.0 3.5 Sporty-ish wagon a French forte. Octavia RS wagon far more focused, if a little noisier
Megane RS 280 Mar 19 $45,990 (6m) $50,490 (6dc) I4/1.8T 205/6000 390/2400 front 1407 146 5.8* – 7.5* 4.0 Class-defining Meg RS returned with five doors and a tough new look, ready to throttle i30 N
Megane RS 280 Cup Jul 19 $48,990 (6m) $51,990 (6dc) I4/1.8T 205/6000 390/2400 front 1407 146 5.98 14.07 7.4 4.0 Drivers will want the Cup for its Brembos, LSD and 19s. Now with a DCT option
126 january 2020 whichcar.com.au/motor
“WAGON DEVOTEES GRIEVING THE COMIN
WAGONPOCALYPSE CAN THANK THE
KARDASHIANS FOR SAVING THE SEGMENT
Tim Keen
CHICKEN WAS A LUXURY in 1900. It was meat for special occasions decided that in America the station wagon is effectively extinct.
only. Working-class people ate quail more often than chicken; small, bony, And as the US goes, so goes Australia – for family hauling, it’s all SUVs,
fiddly quail. But because chicken was luxurious, it became profitable to crossovers and monster-sized pick-ups from here on. Right? Well, maybe
breed chickens and by 1930 chicken farmers were raising 50 gazillion for the chicken-eating classes. But the wagons that remain are not for the
chickens a year. chicken-eaters. They’re for the quail-eaters.
With increased supply, prices dropped, and now we’ve gone from a Wagons are not hauling kelpies and footy gear anymore. They’re
twice-a-year delicacy to buying a 44-gallon bucket of chicken bits for five hauling Italian truffle hounds and polo mallets. Or whatever rich people
bucks. Chicken isn’t luxurious any more, it’s blue-collar food. And rich do for fun now. Probably hunting Centrelink clients in their pinot cellar
people don’t want blue-collar, they want exclusivity. They want scarcity. using solid-gold shotguns and night vision.
So the rich started eating the poor people’s quail, which the poor people So for wagon devotees grieving the coming wagonpocalypse, you can
weren’t eating anymore because they were all eating the rich people’s thank the Kardashians for saving the segment. Once the Real Housewives
chicken. The scarce option became the common option, and the common of Whatever start driving something, you can bet the real millionaire
option became the scarce option. wives start looking for something else to be seen in, tout de suite dahling.
The same thing happened with vinyl records and CDs. And with digital The old-money bourgeoisie don’t want to be mistaken for the nouveau
and analogue watches. It’s going to happen with SUVs. riche in their identical Rangie. It’s straight into the Alpina Touring
I read recently about the impending death of the station wagon. instead. They just won’t call it a station wagon anymore. They’ll call it a
“Station Wagon, I have come for thee,” the automotive Grim Reaper has “shooting brake” or an “estate car”.
allegedly intoned, reaching out with one bony finger to condemn all big- And instead of car makers switching to SUVs, you’ll see SUV makers
booty family cars to the parts yard of history. But is he really coming? switching to station wagons. You scoff now, but when Range Rover
Last year, station wagons accounted for just three per cent of all new releases an estate car concept you’ll choke on a quail bone in recognition.
cars sold worldwide. Two-thirds of those sales were in Europe, and most of You may be choking on a quail bone already. Goddamn fiddly quail.
those were in just a fistful of countries: Sweden, Finland, Czech Republic, Then the whole cycle will begin again. Socially aspiring chicken-eaters
Slovakia and Poland; all the big vodka nations. I wonder if anyone has will covet Psalm West’s Avant. Motoring journos years from now will be
ever studied the link between vodka consumption and station wagons. mourning the impending death of the SUV, as every factory outside the
Maybe they’re just easier to sleep in the back of when you accidentally get Post-Nuclear Mutant Zone is retooled to make station wagons.
plastered on the way home from the bottle shop. Skol! If you want to look rich in 2040, you’ll be driving a station wagon. On
In the US, station wagons make up barely one per cent of new cars sold. your way to pick at some brunchtime quail. And listen to a vinyl record.
VW America is converting its last Golf Wagon and Golf Alltrack factories And play with your Tamagotchi. That’s gonna make a resurgence too.
in Mexico to produce SUVs and crossovers instead; the Germans have Invest your super accordingly.
d motorofficial f motor_ mag 127
M HOTSOURCE.HOT SOURCE.FASTCARGUIDEFAST CAR GUIDE RENAULT – VOLVO
MODEL TESTED PRICE ENGINE KW/RPM NM/RPM DRIVE KERB KG KW/TONNE 0-100 KM/H 0-400M FUEL CONS RATING
Megane RS Trophy $52,990(6m)$55,990(6dc) I4/1.8T 220/6000 400/3200 front 1419 155 5.7 – 8.1 4.0 New turbo, better tyres and dual-material brakes enhance the Cup chassis RS
Megane RS Trophy-R Ann 19 $74,990(6m) I4/1.8T 220/6000 400/3200 front 1281 171 5.66 13.60 8.0 4.0 The ultimate Megane is fantastic, but charges like a wounded bull
Rolls-Royce www.rolls-roycemotorcars.com
Ghost Series II Feb 15 $595,000 DA (8a) V12/6.6TT 420/5250 780/1500 rear 2360 17 8 4.9 – 14.0 4.5 Quicker and sportier, but no less opulent. What’s the point of a sportier, faster Rolls Royce, though?
Ghost EWB Series II $675,000 DA (8a) V12/6.6TT 420/5250 780/1500 rear 2450 171 5.0 – 14.1 4.5 Even more luxurious with rear-seat space. For those who prefer someone else to do the driving
Phantom Nov 17 $855,000 DA (8a) V12/6.75TT 420/6000 900/1700 rear 2560 164 5.3 – 13.9 4.5 Comes with twin turbos and 130kg in sound deadening. And this is the ‘small’ one?
Phantom EWB $990,000 DA (8a) V12/6.75TT 420/6000 900/1700 rear 2610 161 5.4 – 13.9 4.5 Packs a small apartment’s worth of legroom and 900Nm but some details are over the top
Wraith Dec 14 $645,000 DA (8a) V12/6.6TT 465/5600 800/1500 rear 2360 197 4.6 – 14.0 4.5 Incredible comfort and luxury with traffic-stopping styling. Definitely no drivers’car, though
Dawn Jun 16 $749,000 DA (8a) V12/6.6TT 420/5250 780/1500 rear 2560 164 4.9 – 14.2 4.5 Jaw-dropping looks and a ‘you’ve-made-it’ driving experience that’s best suited to wafting
Cullinan $685,000 DA (8a) V12/6.75TT 420/5000 850/1600 all 2660 158 – – 15.0 4.0 OTT SUV looks like a pimped London cab, including ‘suicide’ doors. Also meant for back-seat relaxing
Skoda www.skoda.com.au
Octavia RS 180TSI $39,990 (7dc) I4/2.0T 180/6700 370/1600 front 1445 125 6.6 – 6.6 4.0 LSD and 180kW for sub-$40K is a brilliant move by Skoda. Shame about the DSG-only status
Octavia RS 180TSI Wagon $41,490 (7dc) I4/2.0T 180/6700 370/1600 front 1467 123 7 6.7 – 6.7 4.0 The Octavia pulls its ace card, with a superb mix of performance and practicality
Octavia RS245 Ann 18 $45,490 (7dc) I4/2.0T 180/6700 370/1600 front 1445 125 6.6 – 6.6 4.0 With the base model having an LSD and 180kW, the RS245 becomes a luxe-pack model grade
Octavia RS245 Wagon Jan 18 $46,990 (7dc) I4/2.0T 180/6700 370/1600 front 1467 123 6.7 – 6.7 4.0 So much better than a Subaru Levorg. Frumpy new styling only heightens design appeal of Golf
Superb 206TSI Sportline $56,790 (6dc) I4/2.0T 206/6500 350/1700 all 1537 134 5.8 – 7.3 3.5 Golf R speed in a practical package. Trade off is that it’s not as agile and needs adaptive suspension
Superb 206TSI Sportline $58,490 (6dc) I4/2.0T 206/6500 350/1700 all 1600 129 5.8 – 7.3 3.5 Great combo of looks, speed and smart packaging. A bit more low-down urge would be nice
Subaru www.subaru.com.au
WRX Nov 14 $40,490 (6m) $43,490 (cvt) F4/2.0T 197/5600 350/2400 all 1476 138 6.08 14.15 9.2 3.5 Gains a harder edge with entertaining handling, but the lumpy power curve and firm ride remain
WRX Premium May 14 $46,890 (6m) $50,090 (cvt) F4/2.0T 197/5600 350/2400 all 1514 138 6.24 14.27 9.2 3.5 Extra kit makes it a more habitable place, which isn’t what the WRX has traditionally been about
WRX STi Jul 18 $52,140 (6m) F4/2.5T 221/6000 407/4000 all 1548 146 5.29 13.51 12.1 3.5 Looks tough, with handling prowess and affordable price. Interior can’t match class benchmarks
WRX STi Premium Apr 16 $56,890 (6m) F4/2.5T 221/6000 407/4000 all 1572 146 5.49 13.62 10.4 3.5 You can delete the wing, but it isn’t actually any faster than the last STi and the steering’s iffy
WRX STi Spec.R Ann 17 $58,940 (6m) F4/2.5T 221/6000 407/4000 all 1572 146 – – 10.4 3.5 Luxo seats and upgraded brakes for the top STI. Still not sure why it gets the hallowed ‘R’ badge
Liberty 3.6R $44,440 (cvt) F6/3.6 191/5600 350/4400 all 1605 119 7.2 – 10.3 3.0 Segment-crushing power (on paper), but it doesn’t translate in reality
Levorg GT-S $50,390 (cvt) F4/2.0T 197/5600 350/2400 all 1591 124 6.6 – 8.7 3.0 Fast wagons are cool. Changes to awful suspension promised a lot, but didn’t deliver
Levorg STI Jan 18 $52,890 (cvt) F4/2.0T 197/5600 350/2400 all 1591 124 6.6 – 8.7 3.0 Looks tougher than the GT-S, but drives no better
BRZ Aug 17 $35,270 (6m) $36,780 (6a) F4/2.0 152/7000 212/6400 rear 1242 122 7.12 15.08 8.4 4.5 Looks better than the 86, with loads of handling balance. Engine really needs to be spanked for pace
BRZ Premium $37,270 (6m) $38,780 (6a) F4/2.0 152/7000 212/6400 rear 1242 122 – – 8.4 4.5 Extra nicities are welcome in an otherwise spartan-esque cabin
BRZ tS Jul 18 $41,190 (6m) $43,190 (6a) F4/2.0 152/7000 212/6400 rear 1255 121 7.48 15.37 8.6 4.5 JDM special scores Brembos, Sachs dampers and STI springs, which weakens the value equation
Suzuki www.suzuki.com.au
Swift Sport Jul 18 $25,490 (6m) $27,490 (6a) I4/1.4T 103/5500 230/2500 front 970 106 7.86 15.72 6.1 4.0 Perky engine, light chassis and loads of kit makes this back-to-basics hot hatch a winner
Tesla www.teslamotors.com
(▲$2700) Model 3 Performance $93,900 (1a) Dual EM 353 639 all 1847 191 3.4 – 0.0 4.0 An M3 killer? We’ll see, but it’s quicker, cheaper and has a Track Mode!
(▲$1600) Model X Ludicrous Sep 18 $143,900 (1a) Dual EM 568 990 all 2487 228 2.9 – 0.0 4.0 A bloody quick, and now much cheaper, way to haul a family in silence
(▲$10,800) Model S Ludicrous $151,900 (1a) Dual EM 568 967 all 2241 253 2.7 – 0.0 4.0 Dual electric motors provide epic acceleration, but Oz infrastructure limits it to urban duties
Toyota www.toyota.com.au
86 GT Aug 17 $31,440 (6m) F4/2.0 152/7000 212/6400 rear 1239 123 7.63 15.36 8.4 4.0 About as much fun as you can have in a car, regardless of price. Performance Pack option a must
86 GT $33,740 (6a) F4/2.0 147/7000 205/6400 rear 1261 117 – – 7.1 4.0 As above but with less power. Road noise and ride can get irritating
86 GTS Jul 18 $36,640 (6m) F4/2.0 152/7000 212/6400 rear 1258 121 7.25 15.19 8.4 4.5 Revised 86 scored more power and chassis tweaks, but the BRZ offers better value equation
86 GTS $38,940 (6a) F4/2.0 147/7000 205/6400 rear 1278 115 – – 7.1 4.0 Starting to get up there in price, yet with Performance Pack still optional
Supra GT Jul 19 $84,900 (8a) I6/3.0T 250/6500 500/1600 rear 1495 167 4.4 – – 4.0 Impressive return for the Supra nameplate, but it’s not the sportscar Toyota thinks it is
Supra GTS Jul 19 $94,900 (8a) I6/3.0T 250/6500 500/1600 rear 1495 167 4.4 – – 4.0 As above with more kit, including bigger brakes, head-up display, fancy audio and 19-inch wheels
Volkswagen www.volkswagen.com.au
Polo GTI Jul 19 $31,990 (7dc) I4/2.0T 147/6000 320/1500 front 1355 108 6.7 – 5.9 4.0 Larger, more polished hot hatch, but heavier, no faster and still no manual
Golf GTI Jul 19 $46,190 (7dc) I4/2.0T 180/6200 370/1600 front – – – – – 4.5 Full-phat 180kW and LSD in five-door guise to challenge i30 N, but tragically DSG only
Golf R Mar 18 $54,990 (7dc) I4/2.0T 213/6200 380/1800 all 1450 – 4.8 – 7.2 4.5 Faster than before, with a beefy engine note. Sadly, we don’t get the 228kW/400Nm overseas tune
Golf R Wagon $56,990 (7dc) I4/2.0T 213/6200 380/1800 all – – – – – 4.5 This wagon trumps any premium medium SUV, but price is getting into S3 Sportback territory
Passat 206TSI wagon $62,290 (6dc) I4/2.0T 206/6500 350/1700 all 1639 127 5.7 – 7.4 3.0 Extended hatch lends practical appeal, but the light-footed Golf R wagon is far more tantalising
Arteon 206TSI $67,490 (7dc) I4/2.0T 206/6500 350/1800 all 1658 124 5.6 – 7.5 3.5 Stretched liftback looks good, remains quick. Although it’s a hefty premium for a tizzed-up Passat
Volvo www.volvocars.com.au
S60 T8 R-Design PH $85,990 (8a) I4/2.0TS (E) 311/na 680/na all 2055 147 4.4 – 2.0 3.5 Check those outputs! Hybrid super-Swede promises brutal pace and silent EV running
V60 T8 R-Design PH $87,990 (8a) I4/2.0TS (E) 311/na 680/na all 2079 147 4.6 – 2.1 3.5 300kW-plus wagons are few and far between, especially for this cheap
XC60 T8 PHEV Polestar $99,990 (8a) I4/2.0TS (E) 311/na 670/na all 2215 147 5.2 – 2.1 3.5 High power-to-weight ratio, but the fuel economy claims are unrealistic
128 january 2020 whichcar.com.au/motor
“GLARING DYNAMIC FAULTS MAYBE
MAKE A RARE DRIVE ON A SUNNY SUNDAY
MORNING ALL THE MORE EXCITING”
Jethro Bovingdon
DO CARS GET BETTER as they get older and move into the realms of strong, and refereeing the fight between tyres and turbocharged torque
‘classic’ status? This month, I’ve stumbled upon a car that’s given me food is no doubt a full-time and absorbing job. These are big gestures, giving
for said thought – the Maserati Shamal. unforgettable adrenaline-fuelled moments unmatched by the rounded,
I try to drive older stuff with my road-tester’s head on. Forget the cohesive talents of the ubiquitous Porsche.
romance, forget the rarity and the allure of the badge. Just drive and The thing is, you buy a classic to cherish and to drive. To build
report on the sights, sounds and dynamics. There are times this isn’t a relationship with and grow into. For my money, that means that
easy – try driving an Integrale with pure objectivity – but it does at least eventually, when the novelty fades and the lustre of the badge is
mean you don’t get sucked into projecting your own personal memories subsumed by the richness of the driving experience, high-quality driving
or wishes onto a car and wrongly hailing it as The Greatest Car of All Time dynamics still matter.
because I used to have a poster of it on my wall. They’re crucial. They keep you hooked for longer and they reward more
Getting back to the Shamal, although I haven’t driven one, I imagine it intensely. It’s why I still judge cars on how they drive rather than simply
has glaring dynamic faults that give it ‘character’ – but maybe they make what they represent in your hopes and dreams. I’ve driven so many
a rare drive on a sunny Sunday morning all the more exciting. modern and new cars and, while many have provided little moments of
It’s a pretty persuasive argument. Maybe the bizarre torque-steer of the magic, the very best deliver it from the first moment that the wheels start
first Focus RS is a cool trait to learn to drive around. More interesting than rolling – and don’t stop. ‘Consistent’ sounds dull. How about ‘consistently
the smooth, easy-going nature of the Golf GTI, surely? Maybe the Honda brilliant’? That’s what separates the great from the good.
S2000’s strangely spiky on-limit behaviour gives it a sense of drama that’s Of course, I’m not immune from the pull of the slightly shoddy. I would
way beyond the benign Boxster? Maybe the cars that didn’t shine in group actually love a Maserati Ghibli Cup – and, even though I know I don’t
tests when they were new actually have more of the tools to make for a adore driving them, every time I see an Integrale I go weak at the knees.
unique ‘classic’ experience? Perhaps high-quality dynamics aren’t the I understand how important memories are in our classic car choices
currency by which classic performance cars should be judged? too. Along with my 996, I have a Citroen DS in the garage. A D Super was
Well, maybe. I accept without question that a 10-minute test drive the first car I ever rode in and my dad had a gorgeous DS23 Pallas.
in a Shamal will be more bewitching than the same in a Porsche 993, Maybe that’s the real answer. You need at least two classics to really
for example. It’s so unfamiliar and exotic. Its power will come on so cover all the bases. Maybe three. Or four...
d motorofficial f motor_ mag 129
01 . 20
M FORGOTTENFASTCARS BY S C O T T N E W MAN
PROWLER
1997 0-100KM/H 7.4sec (estimate)
ENGINE 3518cc V6, SOHC, 24v
POWER 160kW @ 5850rpm
TORQUE 300Nm @ 3100rpm
PRICE NEW USD$43,000
Plymouth Prowler
A brave effort that took the ‘hot’ out of hot rod
YOU MIGHT recall the wild Plymouth Prowler concept of the 188km/h, though it beat the 0-60mph claim at 7.0sec.
mid-1990s, a retro throwback to hot rod culture. Except the A little more potency arrived in 1999 with a high-
Prowler wasn’t a concept, it was a fully fledged production ➜ performance aluminium block version of the 3.5 producing
car, of which 11,702 were built between 1997 and 2002. 189kW/339Nm. This cut the 0-60mph claim to 5.9sec and
It’s remembered as a bit of a flop, critically and ABOVE lifted the top speed to 203km/h. However, Chrysler itself
commercially, but there’s more to the story than that. It’s safe to assume addressed the Prowler’s criticisms with a concept unveiled
Let’s start with the bad. The bold design successfully paid we’ll never see another at the 1999 SEMA called the Howler, which packed a 4.7-litre
homage to cars like the Ford Model A, but many hot rod production car like the V8, five-speed manual and elongated tail for luggage.
enthusiasts were left alienated by Chrysler’s decision to use Plymouth Prowler, at Boot space in the Prowler was virtually non-existent, a
least from a volume
a V6 engine and four-speed automatic gearbox. The V6 was manufacturer. Today’s problem partially solved by the option of a matching trailer.
chosen to improve efficiency and meet crash regulations. regulations just Trouble is, the trailer added another USD$5000 to a car that
Despite weighing just 1280kg, the Prowler, initially at least, wouldn’t allow it already cost more than a Chevrolet Corvette.
wasn’t particularly quick. The 3.5-litre SOHC V6 produced While not particularly successful, the aluminium-intensive
160kW/300Nm for a 0-60mph (97km/h) claim of 7.2sec. Prowler was an important research and development tool,
Plymouth claimed an electronically limited top speed of parts of its chassis being adhesively bonded like a Lotus
190km/h, which was academic because during testing Car Elise. To Chrysler, the lessons learned about lightweight
& Driver found the Prowler was aerodynamically limited to construction were more important than sales figures.
ALL HAIL THE NEW KING!
NEXT
PCOTY 2020
02/20 ISSUE The year’s 10 hottest fast cars
fight it out on road and track
➜ PLUS: Alpina B5 Touring driven in Oz; Megane RS300 Trophy EDC vs Civic Type R vs i30 Fastback N
O N S ALE F E B R U AR Y 6
130 january 2020 whichcar.com.au/motor
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