Racing Legend John Fitch dead at 95

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of racing legend John Fitch. How do you summarize John Cooper Fitch? He was a decorated WWII air corps pilot and POW, Purple Heart medal winner, SCCA and LeMans champion, team manager, racing and auto safety pioneer. These titles all apply.

John Fitch was born on August 4th, 1917 and from an early age was introduced to car racing. He was born in Indianapolis, Indiana. His stepfather was an executive for Stuz and introduced him to racing, but he was not initially impressed with it. It wasn't until he returned from WWII that he fell in to car racing as many did. During the war, Fitch was a decorated pilot in the Army Air Corps who was shot down and captured by German troops and locked in a POW camp.

After the war he began racing cars, only sports car racing rather than the typical oval track racing he witnessed at Indy. And Fitch was good, better yet great. During the early 50s, Fitch raced for driver and car designer Briggs Cunningham. He later became the only American to race for Mercedes Benz in their racing efforts. In 1955, the crash at the 24 Hours of LeMans greatly affected Fitch. He would go on to develop the Fitch Inertial Crash Barrier. Yellow barrels filled with sand that are still seen on racetracks and highways to this day.

After Mercedes, Fitch was approached by Chevrolet to help develop and manage their Corvette racing efforts and to make the Corvette a true race car. The eventually led to Fitch driving a Corvette at LeMans in 1960, and winning with co-driver Bob Grossman. Fitch would retire from professional driving in 1966. However, he did do some further driving for others, including a failed attempt at a land speed record in a 300 SL gullwing Mercedes owned by Bob Sirna. He was also re-united with his LeMans winning 1960 Corvette at LeMans in 2010. That car is now owned by Lance Miller, a friend of ours and owner of Carlisle Events.

Fitch had a great passion for inventing and a prime example were the Fitch Barriers mentioned above. He also developed many performance and appearance products for the Chevrolet Corvair. And there was the Fitch Phoenix, a Corvair bassed sports car.

Even until earlier this year, Fitch was a staple at Lime Rock Park in Connecticut. Where he also had served as manager.

God Speed John Fitch. You will be greatly missed.

Breaking news: Carroll Shelby passes away at 89

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of racing and sports car legend Carroll Shelby who passed away today in Dallas Texas at the age of 89. Shelby, a racing legend in his own time. A winner of the 24 hours of LeMans. He was father of the legendary Cobra and the line of Mustangs that carried his name. Details of his death have not been released at this time, but Shelby has been hospitalized recently.

Where is Henry's punch bowl?

It's no secret that Henry Ford was one of the greatest minds to have lived in the 20th century. Aside from building some pretty fine automobiles, Henry Ford also dabbled with racing. In 1901 Ford, participated in a race put on by the Detroit Driving Club. He built a car specifically for the race, all in hopes of securing backers for his next automotive venture, which was of course, Ford Motor Company. Also participating was Alexander Winton, a fellow car builder from Cleveland, Ohio who was also considered the best driver in the country at the time. Winton's entry in the race was secured by letting him pick the trophy for the race which was a cut glass punch bowl set. And it was picked because Winton had a spot in front of a window in his home where it would look perfect and "really tie the room together". What Winton didn't count on was Henry Ford's determination. The race officials changed the format from a 25 lap endurance race (that was a lot in 1901) to a 10 lap sprint. While Winton's car was vastly more powerful than Henry Ford's "Sweepstakes" racer. The size and light weight of Ford's car gave the advantage. Catching and passing Winton's car by the eighth lap. Winning the race, Henry Ford did was any driver would do, by taking the punch bowl home. After Henry Ford's wife Clara's death in 1950, many of the Ford's possessions were auctioned off. This included the punch bowl, which sadly, no one knew the meaning of.


Now, Edsel Ford II want's it back. Ford Motor Company and the Ford family now fully understand the special meaning of the punch bowl and want it back, badly. The punch bowl is wanted for a new addition to The Henry Ford museum called Racing in America. All in an effort to teach and raise awareness of the science and technology of motor racing. And the punch bowl is an extremely significant part of that history.  Edsel Ford is hoping that thanks to the Internet that the punch bowl can be found. It is known that it was purchased by a private collector in the 1950 auction. So hopes are that it's out there somewhere. Look at the picture carefully. Perhaps it is sitting on your grandmother's dining room table. You could be the hero of the Ford family!

Car Exciting At Any Age - Go Karts

Are you ready to discover a thrilling recreational activity? Racing or off road go karts could be the ultimate in excitement!

The thrill of skidding sharply around a blind corner in your go kart is an experience that is hard to surpass. Racing down the track in one of your speedy go karts, maneuvering around curves and slower gokart drivers, is fun at its best. Pressing down hard on the accelerator as you pass by slower drivers is about as adrenaline-pumping as it gets. And with gokarting for every level anyone can experience the fun and heart-pounding excitement of go karting.

The smell of the dirt track and the distinct aroma of the gas and oil burning in the gocart engine is enough to excite any enthusiast, even when watching from the stands. If you have ever watched an Indy Car or Formula One race in person or on TV you know how exciting it can be. But imagine climbing into one of those off road or racing gokarts yourself. Starting out slow, taking out to the track, the anticipation is almost unbearable. But then, once on the track, you press the accelerator on your go cart to the floor, feeling an immediate thrust forward, and your adrenaline pumping just as fast. What a thrill. Go karts cannot be beat.

Go karts are how you can experience the thrill of Formula One racing without the danger. At least with the beginner go karts. And you can find those just about anywhere, at family amusement parks, fun centers and other recreational areas where you live. And if you are really serious, it is a good way to get started toward a career in professional racing. Once you master driving go karts it is time to take the next step into the arena of professional racing. But if you are not quite so brave remaining in a go kart can still be exciting.

Go karts are geared toward beginners in either off road or paved track racing. Beginner go karts are easy to drive and control. And if you do lose control there are usually not serious consequences to deal with afterward. No, it is just plain fun racing go karts. Go karting is a simplified version of Indy Car or Formula One racing. But like anything else there are different levels that you can become involved in.

From total beginners to professional go kart racing. From the least experienced drivers to ones that are training to become professional drivers. You can choose your own competition. No need to get involved over your head. The main objective is to have fun. And once you get into your own go kart, no matter what level you are competing in, the fun just never ends.

Once you get addicted to go karting there is no limit as to what you can do. You can purchase a brand new gokart ready for racing, or you can buy inexpensive kits and build your own go carts. Installing rack and pinion steering to changing tires will become easy over time. Or how about the installation of a brand new engine designed for improving the speed of go karts? Maybe you will be after a brand new frame that will be the envy of all around. Perhaps you will want to get into electric gokarts instead of gas powered go karts. The way gas prices are climbing these days that might be a good idea.

But the bottom line is this: speed is where the excitement comes in. And these go karts can reach speeds up to 90 MPH or more. That is fast. But once again, there is no need to start getting nervous just yet. There are opportunities for thrills at every level. You do not need to go 80 MPH to experience a thrilling ride. So if you have ever thought about getting involved with go karts it is never too late and you are never too old. Go out and experience the thrill of go karting now.

The MotoGP Cars Guards

MotoGP racing season will begin today at the Losail, Qatar. In addition to presenting the most prestigious motor race in the world, today the car guards MotoGP will show teeth.

To race this season, the BMW 1 Series M Coupe will serve as MotoGP Safety Car. Although no BMW motorcycles that participated in this prestigious motor racing stage, BMW's involvement in providing MotoGP Safety Car has entered the season to 13.



This car is shown in the official qualifying session that was held yesterday (19 / 3). Well, because this is the car motors tight guard, then the attribute yng pinned in this car was certainly different from the BMW 1 Series M Coupe on the market.

A more sporty body kit presented starting from the front bumper, side skirts to the rear bumper. Hood of the BMW 1 Series M Coupe is now using a new hood from carbon fiber material that has air vents. Rear spoiler has also been adjusted to provide the necessary downforce.

Not only look sporty, this car exhaust sound too mengelegar titanium muffler thanks to the application that will provide sound appealing to the audience.

For the legs, the BMW that was escorting the MotoGP since 1999, this gives a special suspensions for BMW 1 Series M Coupe is combined with the tire tread 19 inch striped, 255/35 front and 285/30 at the rear with six-piston fixed brake -calliper.

There were eight vehicles that BMW is prepared to support the world championships in the current race season. In addition to the BMW 1 Series M Coupe is BMW X6 BMW M and M3 are prepared as MotoGP Safety Car reserves.

Positive Camber

No one can deny the 1927 Bugatti type 37 as one of the greatest grand prix racers of the early 20th century.

Crazy Drifting Car Adventures

Jet Car Drag Race (World Fastest women jet car drivers)

world fastest women jet Car drivers Drag RACING 1/4 Mile ,
This video will show the fact that women also have the courage in the world of racing

Solar Car Racing in Australia

Solar car or solar energy, is the type of electric vehicle that uses solar energy as a source of energy. Solar energy captured by using solar cell panels are then used to drive an electric motor that serves to turn the wheel. To be able to use stabilized then the car is equipped with solar energy storage (energy storage) is usually used batteries / battery.

Moto Gp Grid Girl Show and The historical motogp

Grand Prix motor refers to the top class of motorcycle racing, currently divided into three classes of machine different: 125cc, 250cc and MotoGP (over 990cc). Motors used in MotoGP is made specifically for motor racing, and not sold to the public (street version of the motor for 125 and 250cc classes available). This contrasts with the various production categories of racing, such as World Superbike, that feature modified versions of motorcycles available for general.

History

Road Racing World Championship was first organized by the Federation Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) in 1949. At that traditionally have been held several races at each event for different classes of motors, based on engine capacity, and classes for sidecars (Motor bersespan). Existing classes when it is 50cc, 125cc, 250cc, 350cc, and 500cc for single-seater racing motorcycles, and 350cc and 500cc sidecars for motorcycles. Entering the 1950s and throughout the 1960s, motorcycle engines, four did not dominate the entire class. In the late 1960s, the motor engined two did not begin to master the small classes. In the 1970s, motorcycle engines, two did not really get rid of 4 stroke engines. In 1979, Honda tried to restore the engine 4 stroke the top class by lowering the motor NR500, but this project failed, and in 1983 Honda even winning with a 500cc bike not his second. In 1983, 350cc class finally abolished. 50cc class was replaced by the year 1984 80cC class, but class often dominated by the Spaniard and the Italian was finally abolished in 1990.

Class sidecars are also excluded from the world championships in the 1990s, leaving the 125cc, 250cc, and 500cc classes.

GP 500, the premier class of Grand Prix motor racing, has changed dramatically in recent years 2002. From the mid-1970s until 2001 the top class of GP racing limited four-cylinder and engine capacity of 500cc, both types of engines 4 stroke or 2 stroke. As a result, which can survive engine is 2-strokes, produces power and greater acceleration. In 2002 for the first time, manufacturers are allowed to enlarge the total capacity of a special machine for 4 stroke engine to a maximum of 990cc, and gave freedom to choose the number of cylinders used between three to six with a certain weight limit. With the motor bolehkannya 4 990cc no, the 500 GP class renamed to MotoGP. After the year 2003 does not exist anymore two machines that do not fall in the MotoGP class. For 125cc and 250cc classes in particular still using two machines do not.

Race for the MotoGP class is currently held as many as 17 series in 15 different countries (Spain held the third race weekend). Used in the title race every weekend with several stages.

Friday free practice at the title and the first official practice, and then carried out practice Saturday both official and QTT, where the drivers trying to make the best time to record determine their starting position. Own race was held on Sunday, although there was a series of Saturday is held in the Netherlands and Qatar. Grid (row starting position) consists of three drivers per line and usually every racing series was followed by about 20 drivers. Racing held for about 45 minutes and the driver raced along the specified number of rounds, without entry to the pit change tires or refuel.

Racing History Of Motogp

 Road Racing World Championship was first organized by the Federation Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) in 1949. At the time it has traditionally been on hold several races at each event for different classes of motors, based on engine capacity, and classes for sidecars (motorcycles bersespan). Existing classes when it is 50cc, 125cc, 250cc, 350cc, and 500cc single-seater racing for motorcycles, and 350cc and 500cc sidecars for motorcycles. Entering the 1950s and throughout the 1960s, motorcycle engines, four did not dominate the entire class. In the late 1960s, the motorcycle-engined two did not begin to master the small classes. In the 1970s, motorcycle engines, two did not really get rid of 4 stroke engines. In 1979, Honda tried to restore the engine 4 stroke by lowering the top class of motor NR500, but this project failed, and in 1983, even Honda was winning with his motorcycle 500cc 2 stroke. In 1983, finally abolished 350cc class. 50cc class was replaced by 80cC class in 1984, but classes are often dominated by a rider from Spain and Italy was finally abolished in 1990. Class sidecars are also excluded from the world championships in the 1990s, leaving the 125cc, 250cc, and 500cc classes.

GP 500, the premier class of Grand Prix motor racing, has changed dramatically in 2002. From the mid-1970s until 2001 the top class of GP racing and limited four-cylinder 500cc engine capacity, both types of engines 4 stroke or 2 stroke. As a result, are able to survive is the engine two-strokes, produces power and greater acceleration. In the year 2002 until 2006 for the first time, manufacturers are allowed to enlarge the total capacity of a special machine to machine can not be a maximum of four 990cc, and 800cc in the season turned into 2007.pabrikan also given the freedom to choose the number of cylinders used between three to six with a weight limit particular. With the motor bolehkannya cc 4 stroke was large, the 500 GP class renamed to MotoGP. After the year 2003 there was no second machine that did not go down in the MotoGP class. For 125cc and 250cc classes in particular are still not using two machines.

Race for the MotoGP class is currently held as many as 17 series in 15 different countries (Spain held the third race weekend). Used in the title race every weekend with several stages. Friday free practice at the title and the first official practice, later on Saturday performed the second official practice and QTT, where the drivers trying to make the record the best time to determine their starting position. Own race was held on Sunday, although there was a series that was held Saturday is in the Netherlands and Qatar. Grid (row starting position) consists of three drivers per line and usually every racing series, followed by about 20 drivers. Racing held for about 45 minutes and drivers throughout the race specified number of rounds, without admission pit to change tires or refuel. Racing will be repeated in case of a fatal accident in the early races. The composition of the grid is not changed according to qualifying results. The drivers may enter the pit, if only to replace the motor because of rain during the race.

MotoGP Racing success is inseparable from the organizations involved within a few organizations who are members of the commission, among others FIM Grand Prix, Drona, IRTA and MSMA.

FIM (Federation Internationale de Motocyclisme), is the highest body in the world who care about motorcycles. FIM was established in 1904 was not only taking care of motor racing, but also became superintendent of production motorcycles are sold en masse, particularly about the safety and feasibility. In the ordinary motor racing, FIM is the agency in charge of and responsible about the regulatory and technical implementation of the race, also on the status, extent, and the criteria of a motor racing championship.

Drona is the organization administering the MotoGP race, or in other words, Drona is the promoter of the MotoGP championship. Drona is responsible for the quality of care events and also sponsors the event.

IRTA (International Road Racing Team Association), members of this organization consists of teams who follow the MotoGP race. This organization serves to channel the aspirations of the team and the drivers involved. With this organization the drivers can provide input and determine the rights and interests, including the contract value, safety and feasibility of the circuit.

MSMA (Motorcycle Sport Manufacturer Association), an organization composed in MotoGP from the manufacturer, motor manufacturers who follow the MotoGP championship, such as Honda, Yamaha, Ducati, Suzuki, Kawasaki, and other manufacturers. The function of this organization, among others, to decide the technical regulations on the regulation of the motor along with other organizations involved in the commission Grand Prix.


SPECIFICATIONS

Each of the regulations concerning each class is formed by the FIM race as an organization that authorities do it. FIM forming and issuing new regulations that are considered in accordance with the development race. At the beginning of the new MotoGP era in 2002, not 500cc motorcycle-engined 2 and 4 can not be allowed to be used in the 990cc race. Ultimate power from the motor-engine 4 stroke motorcycle engine that outperformed the two did not get rid of the whole machinery of the two no competition, and the next racing season there is no second motor was used.

In the year 2007, FIM will impose new regulations that the MotoGP bikes will be limited to 800cc 4 stroke. Reasons suggested the reduction of engine cylinder capacity is to increase the security of drivers, given the energy and peak velocity generated MotoGP machines has increased dramatically since 2002. MotoGP current speed record is 347.4 km / h printed by Loris Capirossi on a Ducati motorcycle circuit with Catalunya, Barcelona in 2004. As a comparison, the current F1 speed record is 369.9 km / h printed by Antonio Pizonia with BMW cars, the Monza circuit in 2004.

The decision to restrict the choice of engine capacity to 800cc (than with other methods of power restrictions, such as reducing the number of gear transmission is allowed) by the observers Honda MotoGP is very profitable. Honda uses a five-cylinder engine, and only need to reduce one cylinder to fix their machines to suit the new regulations, while other manufacturers have to redesign all of their machines. Restricted to 800cc also led to controversy that seems to present the motor used in the Superbike championship to be the fastest in the 1000cc motor racing circuits around the world.

Machines used in the 125cc class is limited as much as a single cylinder and with a minimum weight of 80 kilograms, while the 250cc class is limited to two silnder with minimum weight 100 pounds.

Motors for the MotoGP class is allowed to use the machine with the number of cylinders between three to six cylinders, and there are variations in the weight restrictions depending on the number of cylinders used. This is due to an engine with more cylinders, power output is also greater, and weight limits are increased. In 2006, the machines used in MotoGP is a four-and five-cylinder engine. Honda uses a five-cylinder, while the Yamaha, Ducati, Kawasaki, and Suzuki used four cylinder.

Motors are used in motor Grandprix made not only for racing only, but also as a venue for power struggles among manufacturers and technological advances. As a result all the MotoGP machines made by using very expensive materials and light such as titanium, and carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic. Motors are also using technology that is not available for public consumption, for example, is a sophisticated electronic devices including telemetry, engine management systems, traction control, carbon disc brakes, and modern engine technology adopted from the F1 car engine technology.

If the motors used in the MotoGP class only raced at world championship level, motors used in the 125cc and 250cc classes are relatively more affordable. The price of a more or less the same 125cc motorcycle with a car. These motors are often used in a national motor racing championships around the world.

One of several key challenges faced by drivers and engineers MotoGP MotoGP bike is how to channel the incredible power of the engine - more than 240 dk (179 kW), through the contact points of two tires and the asphalt surface with a circuit width is only about the human arm. As a comparison, F1 cars generate more than 950 dk (700 kW) but with four tires, so have the point of contact with the asphalt surface ten times wider than the MotoGP bike.


Engine Specifications

# Configuration: 4-cylinder v (Grade GP), 2-cylinder (class 250 cc and 125 cc).
# Capacity: 800 cc (Grade GP), 250 cc (250 cc class), 125 cc (125 cc class).
# Valve: 16-valve (GP), 8-valve (250 cc, 125 cc).
Job # valve: DOHC, four-valves per cylinder (GP), two-valves per cylinder (250 cc, 125 cc).
# Fuel: Without lead (no fuel control), 100 octane.
# Supply of fuel: fuel injection.
# Aspiration: Aspiration of normal.
# Strength: Kira - about 250 or 225 dk.
# Lubrication: Wet.
# Maximum / minimum engine speed: 17500-18000 rotations per minute.
# Cooling: Single water pump.

History Of Ducaty Company

Well definitely surprised? Just read the Origins if this Ducati. Which Ducati Superbike ruled in the arena and the Almost undermined the dominance of Japanese manufacturers in MoptoGP, it Used to Be a manufacturer of electronics. Ducati is a Family Owned company supplying a radio transmitter. More precisely, it's 1926 in Bologna, Italy.

But the long struggle was destroyed by the Cruelty of the Second World War in 1944. Two years later Pls Milan Fair, Ducati Brother (the founder) tried to move on to another product. One of the associates, ie Cucciolo's introduces miniature engines for Motorcycles.


In 1952 the Ducati family other saw opportunities in the automotive industry. Just Rush to design a capacity Of 175 cc Cruiser Motorcycles with automatic transmissions.

The success brought Cruiser 175 cc engine to the market opening new opportunities for product delivery. A year later Ducati dared to make a motor with a capacity of 1998 cc of fuel-efficient and power. And that was the Forerunner to the development of motor capacity of 125 cc engine.


Later in the year 1954 an engineer named Fabio Taglioni join and bring the latest construction machinery. He Called it Taglioni design. It is said that this was the Forerunner to the construction of The Desmo Which have large energy.


Now, two years after his dream exhaled, really Taglioni realize by creating four-stroke race Tourist Tourist kitchen gravity bobot 174 and 174 special. Even directly made any type of sports. Add splashy, kitchen runway is capable of penetrating 135km / h. That figures are plotted as the fastest bike in its time,

In fact, in 1958 donated Taglioni desmodromic system for Triumph. Development began in 1955.
But the funny thing is, even the Ducati racing debut with a two-stroke engines with a capacity of 250 cc in 1960. Mike Hailwood at That Time Can be allocated to develop a racing engine manifold two-step, and repeatedly to reach the podium. After that, even leave the arena Racing Ducati.


Original manufacturer's new 1972 Bologna, Italy Fell back on the rink four-stroke class. On 23 April 1972, Taglioni desmodromic spawned a new weapon 750 cc twin cylinder.


Finally, Claudio and Gianfranco Castiglioni take over a part of the Cagiva Group. Until now Involved in two motorcycle racing arena. Namely Superbike and MotoGP.

Beautiful racer in Nascar

Not many people in the world, let alone women, who could be a spokesperson for the ad, models and drivers as well!

Sports: NASCAR Racing
Born: March 25, 1982 in Beloit, Wisconsin
Age: 27
Nationality: U.S.
Team: Andretti Green Racing

First in the Indy500 Racetrack, Danica is the first woman to lead the race in 2005, proving to the world that can match perempian beautiful man in the world of car racing.
This black haired girl is a media favorite, often appearing in talk shows and magazine covers. We heard him maintain his body weight by doing yoga session in the sauna room temperature to 100 degrees. Very hot.

Japan night Race Video

 The Mid Night Club (ミッド ナイト クラブ, Middo Naito Kurabu?) was a Japanese street racing gang that hosted illegal races on the Bayshore Route (known natively as the Wangan) of the Shuto Expressway between Tokyo to Yokohama. The gang became one of the most notorious and highly respected clubs of its type, which led to it being featured in over 200 editorial features in most of the leading Japanese auto magazines and even in foreign magazines such as the Danish Autoviz, the British Max Power and the American Turbo magazine. One of the earliest non-Japanese media referrals was in the first episode of Jeremy Clarkson's Motorworld in January 1995, when the presenter Jeremy Clarkson, driving his Skyline GT-R around Japan, stated that his car "is more likely to be seen in the Mid Night Club". That and because of its dangerously high racing speed, it gave street racing in Japan a worldwide notoriety.[citation needed] The club was regarded as one of the longest running street racing gangs

Nascar Racing History

At the time Bill France founded NASCAR (National Asosiation Stock Car Auto Racing for) 21 February 1948, he never imagined the race car will be the second most popular spectator after the American football. Although the appeal of this game is very closely related to the production vehicle, at that age is just a car race car endurance race covers include car endurance race dimedan rough climb or explore the snowy or muddy field with enough distance so far.

With this condition, the drivers often feel daunting challenge because the tires frequently destroyed before the finish. Therefore, the vehicle is equipped with a folding hatches are placed above the track as one of "technical features" to give to the driver about the condition of the tires. This anecdote has lasted a long time, the standard of this race weekend and then was increased to achieve a leading and very popular kesuksesan.Liga is next in the series championship race.

NASCAR technology has been standardized in the 1960s category V8 engine, with cylinder capacity of 5.7 liters is a consideration in making the standard. Now the engine manufacturers such as Dodge and Chevrolet vehicles meproduksi more than 800 HP (horse power). However, for security reasons a floe water restrictor fitted to reduce the power of 450 HP. What remains is the dirty cars and the roaring sound typical machine-another reason why NASCAR racing series so popular.

Racing legend Phil Hill 1927-2008

The racing world has just got a little bit sadder today. We have been informed that car racing legend Phil Hill has passed away at the age of 81 after a long battle with Parkinson's Disease.

Mr Hill was widely known for his victories over his 20 year racing career. Including the 3 wins at 24 Hours of LeMans, the Italian Grand Prix, and the Belgian Grand Prix. In 1961 he was honored with being the first American to win the Formula One World Drivers Championship. Many of his wins were with Ferrari.

Phil Hill retired from racing in 1967. And had the honor of being one of the few drivers that have won both their first and last races of their careers. After retirement he had a business restoring antique and classic cars. He has also worked as a comentator for ABC's Wide World of Sports and as a contributing editor for Road & Track magazine.

Hill's assistance was also sought by Caroll Shelby and the Ford Motor Company to help develop the Ford GT40 and Shelby Daytona Coupe.

Hill will be sadly missed. He was truly one of the greats in racing from the days when racing was racing. God Speed Phil Hill!

Finally! Top Gear launches official YouTube page.

There's no denying how popular Top Gear has become worldwide. Through it's monthly magazine and the hugely sucessful TV show. The BBC has a winner. Well now the BBC and YouTube have made an agreement to have exclusive Top Gear TV clips hosted on YouTube.com.

So now you don't have to worry about posting your favorite clip and having it removed. So sit back, relax, and watch The Stig, Clarkson, Hampster, and Captain Slow do what they do best.

Top Gear YouTube Channel.

Formula One News: Ferrari & Mercedes 2008 cars, Hamilton resigns with McLaren

It has been a busy week in Formula One news. The teams are beginning to show off their cars for the 2008 season, and just about all the drivers have been signed. To help celebrate Lewis Hamilton's 23rd birthday and contract signing with McLaren. Mercedes Benz has given Hamilton his 2008 ride. Behold the MP4-23. The Mercedes - McLaren racer will continue to carry Vodafone as their sponsor for 2008, along with that uber cool paint job.

Mercedes unveiled the MP4-23 at the new Mercedes Benz museum in Stuttgart Germany to over 1000 invited guests. Seven hundred of which were from the nearby Stuttgart-Untertürkheim manufacturing facility.

"The Vodafone McLaren Mercedes MP4-23 is the coolest birthday present you can get, well it is for me anyway! To see the car for the first time at such a great place as the Mercedes-Benz museum makes it an even more memorable day." Said Hamilton about his new toy.

The MP4-23 is now on it's way from Germany to the Circuito de Jerez in Southern Spain , where Hamilton and his new teammate, Heikki Kovalainen, will be giving the car proper testing. 14,000 man hours went into the engineering of the MP4-23 so far. With another 3,000 hours of wind tunnel testing. Development began in 2006, and development for the 2009 season car is already underway.

MP4-23 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

ENGINE

Type: Mercedes-Benz FO 108V
Capacity: 2.4 litre
No. of cylinders: 8
Max. rpm: 19,000 (FIA regulatory limit since 2007)
Bank angle: 90O
Piston bore maximum: 98 mm (FIA regulation)
Bore spacing: 106.5 mm
Number of valves: 32
Fuel: Mobil 1 Unleaded (5.75% bio fuel)
Lubricants: Mobil 1, newly developed 2008 formula for lower friction and better wear resistance
Engine: 95kg (minimum FIA regulation weight) TRANSMISSION

Gearbox

Speeds: Seven forward and one reverse
Semi-auto: Yes
Driveshafts: McLaren
Clutch: Hand-operated

Chassis: McLaren moulded carbon fibre/aluminium honeycomb composite incorporating front and side impact structures. Contains integral safety fuel cell
Front Suspension: Inboard torsion bar/damper system operated by pushrod and bell crank with a double wishbone arrangement
Rear Suspension: Inboard torsion bar/damper system operated by pushrod and bell crank with a double wishbone arrangement
Suspension Dampers: Koni
Electronics: McLaren Electronic Systems control units incorporating electronics for chassis, engine and data acquisition. McLaren Electronic Systems also supplies the electronic dash board, alternator voltage control, sensors, data analysis and telemetry systems
Bodywork Construction: One-piece engine cover; separate sidepod covers; separate floor section, structural nose with integral front wing.
Tyres: Bridgestone Potenza
Radios: Kenwood
Race Wheels: Enkei
Batteries: GS Yuasa Corporation
Steering: McLaren power-assisted
Instruments: McLaren Electronic Systems

Ferrari F2008:

Ferrari has also launched their F2008 Formula One car. Ferrari's contender this year has been designed with all of the changes to the 2008 Formula One season. This includes the standard electronic control unit from McLaren, upgraded gearbox and safety changes to better protect the drivers head on the sides. The body for the F2008 has also be redesigned to allow for maximum safety, with updated aerodynamics.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Chassis
Carbon-fibre and honeycombcomposite structure
Ferrari longitudinal gearboxLimited-slip differential
Semiautomatic sequentialelectronically controlled gearbox quick-shift
Number of gears: 7 + Reverse
Ventiled carbon-fibredisc brakes

Independent suspension, push-rod activated torsion springs front and rear
Weight (with water, lubricant and driver): 605 kg
BBS Wheels (front and rear): 13''

Engine
Type: 056
Number of cylinders: 8
Cylinder block in castaluminium: V 90°
Number of valves: 32
Pneumatic distribution
Total displacement: 2398 cm3
Piston bore: 98 mm
Weight: <95>


Lewis Hamilton:

All of this brings us back to Lewis Hamilton. He has renewed his contract with Mercedes-McLaren for a reported $138 million dollars. This is for a 5 year contract, earning the 23 year old Driver's Champion $27 million per year.

Things are shaping up for an exciting season in Formula One this year. Sadly of course there will be no U.S. venues this year. But we will still follow each race and report all the news this season.

Source: Ferrari, Mercedes Benz, Motor Authority.

VW TDI Cup gearing up for 2008 season

Are you between the age of 16 and 26? Do you like legal track racing? Do love VWs? If you answered yes, then the VW TDI Cup is for you.

VW announced the TDI Cup at the SEMA show in October along with showing off the new Jetta TDI Cup Car. The jetta is powered by a specially prepared 2.0liter Turbo by Volkswagen Motorsport. Capable of 170 horsepower.

Interested drivers will begin a series of qualifying events beginning in March. The entire series will be limited to thirty drivers. Qualifying drivers will be required to come up with $35,000 to cover the race season. VW will provide the Jetta TDI Cup Cars complete with all the safety equipment, tires, etc for the season. Each race is worth $1,500 to the first place driver with a $100,000 purse at the end of the season for the championship winner. As a bonus, if the winning series driver can score him or herself a pro ride within six months within winning. They will be awarded an additional $250,000 bonus.

Interested drivers should contact Volkswagen directly via the VW Motorsports website below.

http://www.vw.com/vwhype/motorsport/en/us/

Source: VW

Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix announces all Italian Cars as Marque of the year for 2008

We are pleased to announce all Italian Cars as Marque of the Year for the 26th Annual Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix in 2008.

AAM has been a longtime supporter of the PVGP and all of their charities. There is no event quite like the grand prix. While vintage racing is known all over the country. The first event like this that might come to your mind is the Monterey Historics at Laguna Seca. That is an excellent event, but it does not match the uniqueness of the PVGP or it's beautiful setting just outside the City of Pittsburgh in historic Schenley Park. Also the fact that the races are run on city streets that are open to the public 363 days a year through Schenley Park golf course.

Combined car shows are also part of the allure of the PVGP. Cars of all vintages from all over the world are parked right on the golf course and all have an excellent view of the racing action. Local clubs and national chapters put on the shows for their individual marques, and the entire course is marked for each country and then by marque. The organization is key. Each year more than 5,000 vehicles are entered in the combined car shows.

Each year the PVGP operating committee selects a unique brand as their marque of the year. Mercedes Benz held the honor for 2007. For 2008 all Italian Marques will be featured as Marque of the Year. So we expect to see some quality vehicles from all over the country in attendance. Brands like Ferrari, Lamborgini, Alfa Romeo, Fiat, Maserati and many more.

The Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix was started in 1983 and has grown from being a weekend race to being a 2 week long festival of cars. Starting with a kick off rally leading a mystery course around Pittsburgh, to the historic races at BeaveRun raceway the first week to invitational car shows, black tie events, charity concerts, Downtown Pittsburgh car show displays and car cruises. All leading up to the vintage weekend in Schenley Park. Since 1983, the PVGP has given all of the proceeds to charity. Yes ALL proceeds, all money from the car shows, vendors, racing fees, memorabilia sales, and donations are given to benefit the Autism Society of Pittsburgh and the Allegheny Valley School. So not only is the event an absolute blast for the car enthusiast, but it all goes to a worthy cause. For 2007, the PVGP raised $170,000 for charity. Since 1983 the PVGP has raised $2.25 Million dollars. Proceeds from the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix provide residential care, treatment and support for developmentally disabled individuals at the Autism Society of Pittsburgh and Allegheny Valley School.

Look for more announcements here, as well as full coverage of all PVGP events starting in July, 08.

Press Release:

On November 21, 2007 PVGP Executive Director Dan DelBianco was proud to announce that Bernie Martin will serve as the PVGP's Chairperson for Marque of the Year, stating " We are excited to have Bernie onboard. He is well connected in the racing and automotive industry and his enthusiasm for our event and our charities is only exceeded by his passion for Italian cars. We look forward to the 2008 Marque celebration to be one of the most unique of our 26 year lineage". So stay tuned in the next few weeks as new events and detailed information become available.

For more information on the Marque program or these events, please email our new Marque of the Year Chairperson Bernie Martin.

The Marque of the Year Car Show at Schenley Park on July 19/20 is open to any Italian car owner, all clubs welcome, any year car is eligible. Join us for one of the best Italian parties of the year.

$125 per car entitles you to:
- A parking spot on the fairway alongside the Marque of the Year Tent
- Italian style lunch for two on both Saturday and Sunday
- Complimentary dash plaque and race program
- Parade lap of the racetrack in our Marque of the Year Parade on Sunday at 10:30 AM
- Optional dinner on Saturday night at Start/Finish with drivers & volunteers - $25 per person
- Optional reception with the vintage drivers and their crews at Carnegie Museum on Friday, July 18.