Auto World

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FIRST GLANCE: BUGATTI VEYRON
By: Bob Arker (GR&D)
Photograph: Brenda Priddy & Company
April 19, 2005

    This may not be the clearest picture but this is the first look at a production version of the Bugatti Veyron.  The car premiered at the 2002 Geneva Auto Show.  It drew much attention but production plans were halted because of fears over safety.  The car has a midship mounted W-16 engine with 1001 horsepower (987 on North America's SAE scale) and a top speed of 252 mph.  The production car will debut officially at the Frankfurt Auto Show in September.  The first production run is expected to be 300 units each with a price tag of... One MILLION dollars (insert evil laugh.)

2005 New York Auto Show

    NEW YORK, N.Y. -- One of the biggest shows on the circuit for both North American and international auto makers alike, the New York International Auto Show returns for the 105th time.  As with all shows this one posts big production and concept car debuts.
BMW 3-series
The new 3-series debuts in New York.  Supposed to be safer, faster, and more comfortable.  0-to-60 in 5.6 seconds.  Two-stage brakelights, intelligent airbags, and run-flat tires come standard.  iDrive is optional.
Dodge Charger SRT8
The Charger is truly back now.  The SRT8 is powered by a 6.1L V-8 with 425 bhp.  Five-speed manu-matic transmission.  0-to-60 in five seconds.  Not a muscle car but a sports sedan.  At least Dodge is getting back to what it does best.
Ford Shelby Cobra GT500
Possibly a preview of an SVT Mustang.  This concept is planned to be a Corvette-fighter with a similar power-to-weight ratio.  Price expected under $40,000 US.  To be powered by a supercharged V-8 with 450 bhp.
Jaguar Super V8 Portfolio
Heavily inspired by Jag's "Concept Eight."  Long list of high tech, luxury options.  Six-speed automatic tranny is coupled to a 400 hp supercharged V-8.  Expect it out for 2006.
Land Rover Range Rover Sport
Aimed after the Porsche Cayenne SUV.  Has a supercharged 390 hp Jaguar V-8.  Features the new Dynamic Response suspension.  Senses cornering force and optimizes body control and handling.  On sale in the summer of 2005.
Mazda MX-5 3rd Generation Limited
Mazda debuts it 3rd generation limited MX-5 roadster in New York.  Same engine as 3rd Gen.  Features special badge, silver trim on windshield, and front air intake, and 17" alloy wheels.  Features limited-exclusive Velocity Red Mica paint (pictured.)
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX
The ninth generation Lancer.  The Evo IX features tweaks to the front and rear bumpers.  The front has new openings to aid the intercooler.  The rear spoiler has an optional Gurney flap to add downforce.  The engine has been tweaked to 286 hp.  Expected to start at $29,000.