Scuderia Asino Grigio

The Bad Old Days of Racing - BBC " Grand Prix - The Killer Years"

2011-04-16T12:39:00.000-05:00

I happened across this great series from the BBC and had to come back and share it. Enjoy.

24h of LeMans - BMW Promo Video

2010-06-11T06:26:00.000-05:00

Peugeot 908 HDi FAP night Qualifying with Alex Wurz

2010-06-09T21:01:00.000-05:00

Some impressive night qualifying from former F1 pilot Alex Wurz in the Peugeot 908 Hdi FAP. Can only imagine what those speeds are like are the Circuit de la Sarthe at night, plus when you look at how far ahead the lights are projecting, I would think that you are over driving the beam by 4 or 5 seconds. Awesome courage and skill.

2010 LeMans 24h - Audi Preview

2010-06-09T09:41:00.000-05:00

It looks like it will be another battle of the oil-burners at the Circuit de la Sarthe this year with Audi going at it with hammer and tongs against the closed top Peugeots. Should be some decent battles back in the GT category, but generally the GT class winner has been decided by "who can avoid battle damage from back markers," more than "who has the fastest car and runs the best race." Should be fun

Scuderia Back on Track - Gingerman Raceway with Auto Interests - New Turn 10B

2010-06-07T16:22:00.000-05:00

Over Memorial Day weekend we had the opportunity to head out to Gingerman Raceway in South Haven, MI, for the launch of Gingerman's new turn 10B, which completely changes the nature of the track.

Now I've always been a Gman-hater myself and unfortunately the go-pro video of it sucks, but I'll work on posting something. Here's the deal: The transition out of 9 is a constant left arc to the turn in for 10. The track FALLS away off camber to a super late apex then it starts back uphill blind from track out back right across the track to end up mid point down the straight to 11. Much faster and the outside of 10 is all graded downhill, so an off leads to a long ride down the hill.

Looking forward to my next trip out once they plant some grass.

I wonder if they'll have to put truck nutz under the cars, aka The 2012 US Formula 1 moves to Austin Texas

2010-05-25T13:50:00.000-05:00

[Via Cold Track Days]
After a three year absence, it appears Formula One will return to the United States in 2012. According to Formula One World Championship Limited and Formula One Administration Limited, Austin, Texas will host the United States Grand Prix from 2012 to 2021. A new facility will be built to accommodate the USGP and, according to Bernie Ecclestone, President and CEO of the Formula One Group, this "will be the first time a facility is constructed from the ground up specifically for Formula One in the US."

Follow the link for a look at the official press release..

Formula One returns to the United States
Austin, Texas, from the east. The Austin skyline by night, Texas. Austin hill country, Texas. The Austin skyline by day, Texas.

Formula One World Championship Limited and Formula One Administration Limited (together, the F1 Commercial Rights Holder) and Full Throttle Productions, LP, promoter of the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix™, announce that a historic agreement has been reached for Austin, Texas to serve as the host city of the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix™ for years 2012 through 2021.

"We are extremely honoured and proud to reach an agreement with the F1 Commercial Rights Holder. We have been diligently working together for several years to bring this great event to Austin, the State of Texas and back to the United States. All parties involved have a great amount of trust and confidence in each other and are committed to establishing the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix™ in Austin, Texas as a prestigious global event," stated Tavo Hellmund, Managing Partner of Full Throttle Productions, LP.

Bernie Ecclestone, President and CEO of the Formula One Group stated: "For the first time in the history of Formula One in the United States, a world-class facility will be purpose-built to host the event. It was thirty years ago that the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix™ was last held on a purpose-built permanent road course circuit in Watkins Glen, NY (1961-1980), which enjoyed great success. Since then, Formula One has been hosted by Long Beach, Las Vegas, Detroit, Dallas and Phoenix all on temporary street circuits. Indianapolis joined the ranks of host cities in 2000 when they added a road course inside the famed oval. Lewis Hamilton won the last Formula 1 United States Grand Prix™ in 2007, signalling the end to eight years at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. This however, will be the first time a facility is constructed from the ground up specifically for Formula One in the US."

Mr. Hellmund added: "This is a case of the right timing in the right place. As many Americans know, Austin has earned a reputation as one of the 'it' cities in the United States. Austin features that rare combination of ideal geographic location and beauty. Its fine dining, world-renowned hospitality and excellent transportation infrastructure make Austin ideally suited to host and manage an event of this magnitude. Few cities if any in America could rival the connectivity of all the key elements needed for hosting a Formula 1 event as well as Austin. Now, many people around the world will have the opportunity to experience a world-class event, facility and city."

"We are pleased Texas has the opportunity to be involved with Formula 1 and that an event of this magnitude is coming to Austin," said Susan Combs, Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts. "It has been a pleasure working with Full Throttle Productions, LP and Mr. Hellmund on this project. Their tradition of producing successful major events coupled with a thirty year relationship with Mr. Ecclestone has us looking forward to this worldwide event and the benefits it will bring, including local job creation, increased tourism and a significant economic impact added to our state economy. The visibility and prestige of this event will spotlight our state on an international stage."

Texas Governor Rick Perry conveyed his enthusiasm for the project, explaining "Texas' relatively strong economy continues to draw both national and international attention and I commend Comptroller Combs for her work in bringing this exciting event to the Lone Star State."

City of Austin Mayor Lee Leffingwell continued the positive sentiments, adding "The City of Austin will be proud to host this magnificent event and I look forward to welcoming the participants and fans of Formula One to our City."

Full Throttle Productions, LP acknowledges with great appreciation the efforts of all parties involved including Bernie Ecclestone, President and CEO of the Formula One Group, and the local and state officials of Texas.

"It has been a shared vision and monumental task to reach this agreement. We realize that over the last 30 years there have been one or two missing pieces from the previous editions of the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix™. We have a tremendous opportunity at hand to do it right - to feature Austin as the backdrop and produce the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix™ as one of the great sporting events in the world," stated Hellmund.

In addition to the State of Texas being the 11th strongest economy in the world, it has more Fortune 500 company headquarters than any other state. Key features of Austin include:
- State capital nicknamed 'Silicon Hills' for being one of the most important regions in the US for the Technology Industry;
- USA's 15th largest city and is located 145 miles from Houston (4th largest US city), 70 miles from San Antonio (7th largest US city), and 180 miles from Dallas (8th largest US city), population in this triangle is over 22 million;
- perfectly located geographically for North, South and Central American visitors;
- over 130 daily departing international flights within 180 miles;
- over 250,000 hotel rooms within 180 miles;
- desirable year-round climate, with an average annual temperature of 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 Celsius);
- geographically located in the Texas Hill Country, easily the most beautiful city in the State, and considered one of the most in the US;
- hotels/downtown/Formula 1 circuit/airport located within close proximity of each other, which is nearly impossible for any other large city in the US;
- world class night life entertainment along renowned 'Sixth Street'; and
- large film industry presence - many movies filmed in the area.

Austin's National Recognition
- Known as "The Live Music Capital of the World"
- Voted "Greenest City in America" (MSN)
- Voted "Least Stressful Large Metro" in the United States (Forbes)
- Voted Top Two "Best Cities" in the United States (Money Magazine)
- Voted Top Three "Hippest Cities" in the United States (Forbes)
- Voted Top Five "Safest Cities" in the United States (Forbes)
- Voted Top Ten "Sports & Fitness Cities" in the USA (Sports Business Journal)

Full Throttle Productions, LP is an Austin, Texas, special event and sports production company that provides event conception, event project management, day of event oversight, staffing and volunteer services, venue planning and logistics support.

More information on the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix™ will be forthcoming shortly. In the meantime, all queries should be directed to info@fullthrottleproductionslp.com.

In-Car Video of Bill Auberlen and the RLR M3 during ALMS Qualifying at Laguna Seca

2010-05-22T15:44:00.001-05:00

Get a load of the sights and sounds of BMW Rahal Letterman Racing Team driver Bill Auberlen during qualifying for the May 22, 2010 six-hour race at Laguna Seca.[via BMW of North America, LLC.]

A 2010 Nurburgring Night Lap - Onboard Aston Martin N24 Vantage V8

2010-05-21T09:21:00.000-05:00

24H Nordschleife Race at Night 2010 Onboard Aston Martin N24 Vantage V8. Driver: Fredy Barth. Video by SOHAPPY RACING.

[via So Happy Racing]

Too bad they don't award style points in Kart racing.

2010-05-19T15:07:00.000-05:00

The racer's name is Kyle Prokup (no really) and he blames handling issues on this amazing spin back across the line finish at the Midstate Kart Club. Enjoy!

Car Porn Deluxe - "Always Sunny in Snetterton" edition - Team Schirmer M3CSL Cup

2010-05-18T19:16:00.001-05:00

Back in July of last year The Scuderia was clued into the CSL CUP. For those of you that enjoy close racing action between BMW M3 and M3CSL e46's you've come to the right place. Take a ride along with Team Schirmer in a pretty trick cup car. These guys are going at it pretty hard in the wet, plus some great S54CSL sounds. Enjoy!

Team Schirmer in the CSL Cup Race 1 Snetterton 2010 from Stephen Gill on Vimeo.

2010 Nürburgring 24 Hours Finish Video - Spoiler alert.

2010-05-16T09:58:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to BMW Motorsports!
[via MT89Motorsports]

2010 Nürburgring 24 Hours Hour 1-6 Recap

2010-05-15T21:07:00.002-05:00

[via MT89 Motorsports]

2010 Nürburgring 24 Hours BMW M3 E92 Nordschleife Onboard Video

2010-05-15T21:05:00.001-05:00

Turn this one up. The sound is amazing!
[via MT89Motorsport]

2010 Nürburgring 24 Hours Race #98 Audi R8 LMS Frank Stippler Onboard

2010-05-15T11:32:00.000-05:00

[via MT89 Motorsports]
Long onboard with Frank Stippler on the Nordschleife, just look at all the traffic he has to deal with!

Controlled Chaos- The start of the 2010 ADAC 24hr Nurburgring video

2010-05-15T09:33:00.001-05:00

[viaMT89 Motorsports]
The start of the 38th Nürburgring 24 Hours on the Nordschleife.

2010 ADAC Nordschleife Qualifying Viedo - Audi R8

2010-05-14T16:54:00.000-05:00

[via MT89Motorsports}
Footage of the Audi R8 LMS cars on the Nordschleife during Qualifying for europe's biggest race, more than 200 cars will start the 38th Nürburgring 24 Hours

Trailer for the 2010 ADAC Nurburgring 24hr Race.

2010-05-14T13:45:00.000-05:00

I'll try to find a live feed for tomorrow. Enjoy!

Porsche GT3R overcomes rain and fog at the Nurburgring

2010-05-14T10:40:00.000-05:00

[VIA PORSCHE] Stuttgart. Right place, right time – for Porsche works driver Joerg Bergmeister (Germany), the timing at the first qualifying session of the 24 hour race was perfect. At the wheel of the Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid, he opted for slicks at the right moment before heavier rain set in again. With a lap time of 9:26.421 minutes on the 25.378 kilometre combination of the Grand Prix circuit and the Nordschleife, Bergmeister planted Porsche Team Manthey’s orange and white liveried 911, with its 480 hp combustion engine supplemented by two 60 kilowatt electric motors, on second place. The German teams up with works driver Richard Lietz (Austria), Porsche junior Marco Holzer (Germany), and the former Porsche junior driver Martin Ragginger (Austria).

Because of thick fog, the first qualifying session was halted at 22.20 hours after three of the scheduled four hours. Tomorrow, the second and final two-hour qualifying session takes place at 12.45 hours, before the 38th edition of the Eifel classic takes off on Saturday at 15.00 hours. The Porsche teams were well prepared. Under cold and changeable weather conditions, they completed the first qualifying without any problems and safely covered the minimum amount of laps as required by the regulations.

Third position went to Team Mamerow Racing. Former Porsche junior Chris Mamerow (Germany) achieved the third quickest time of the field in the 911 GT3 R. Mamerow competes alongside Porsche works driver Wolf Henzler and his German compatriot Joerg Hardt.

For the title defenders from Manthey Racing, Porsche works driver Marc Lieb (Germany) claimed the quickest time with sixth. After winning three times in succession, the driver quartet returns this year to compete under team boss Olaf Manthey. Sharing driving duties are works drivers Timo Bernhard (Germany) and Romain Dumas (France) as well as experienced Manthey pilot Marcel Tiemann (Monaco).

The 911 GT3 R run by Haribo Team Manthey secured 16th position in qualifying. At the wheel of the 911 sporting the Haribo gold bear design is a racing pro line-up consisting of Lance David Arnold (Germany), Christian Menzel (Germany), Richard Westbrook (Great Britain) and Alexander Margaritis (Germany).

Monaco Free Practice 1 & 2 - Formula 1 - Streaming Rebroadcast

2010-05-13T16:34:00.000-05:00

via Justin.tv
Watch live video from The F1 Society on Justin.tv

Thursday Practice at the Nurburgring

2010-05-13T16:23:00.000-05:00

(BMW Motorsport photo)

BMW M3 GTS - Nurburgring Test Drive

2010-05-12T14:29:00.000-05:00

I have to say that the BMW M3 GTS is causing me to finally start liking the e92 M3's. Sue they have no low-end torque, weight too much, and are too complex, but when you rip out half the junk, bolt on a front splitter and rear wing, and paint the whole thing orange, it becomes a little more interesting.

The New Porsche GT-2RS Promo Video

2010-05-12T06:43:00.000-05:00

The view from the driver's seat is likely the last thing that several doctors and investment bankers will ever see. Awesome.

Rat Rod Part Deux - The birth of a dedicated track car

2010-05-11T14:34:00.004-05:00

To take a cue from Aaron, and the changes he made to his Cayman S, I decided to start tearing apart my 2004 M3 to build safer, lighter, faster track car, and make it almost undriveable on public roads

After 4 years of using it as a daily driver / track car, I thought that I should get serious an build out a more single purpose car. This is phase one, where I added Cobra Seats, Schroth Harnesses, a custom Fall-line Motorsports half-cage, and a Vorsteiner Carbon Fiber roof.

I bought a 335xi as a daily driver, added a hitch and a brake controller to my wife's V8 Touareg, and called Fall Line Motorsports. Attached are some pics of the process and the end result.

Interior out, Sunroof Gone, Half-cage welded in.

Seats fitted, waiting for Carbon Fiber Vorsteiner roof.

Mark Tapper forced out of Rally New Zealand by Arse, aka You're doing a heck of a job Brown-eye.

2010-05-10T17:35:00.000-05:00

Enjoy!

Car Porn Deluxe- "I'm in love with a Goat" edition - More Ferrari 599 GTO!

2010-05-05T14:38:00.000-05:00

Check out the sound of the 599 GTO in the tunnel! Amore!

[via Autocar]

Car Porn Deluxe- "One Fast Goat Edition "- Ferrari 599 GTO and Dario Benuzzi

2010-05-05T11:22:00.000-05:00

The legendary Ferrari test driver Dario Benuzzi takes for a ride onboard of the 599 GTO. Enjoy!

Car Porn Deluxe -"Tasmanian Devil Edition" - Targa Tasmania winning Lamborghini

2010-05-04T12:32:00.000-05:00

Take a ride with Targa Tasmania winner Jason White (with Uncle and co-driver John White) as he gets the most out of his Lamborghini Gallardo Super Trofeo Strada in the Paloona stage. White beat his next closest competitor by 63 seconds over the course of the event. Enjoy!

The Porsche Cayman Interseries - Everything New is Old Again

2010-05-04T07:10:00.000-05:00

Credit to Ron Barnaba and Napleton Porsche for developing this extremely interesting series and bringing it to HSR. A true tribute to the Porsche marque.

Launch Control - When passing on the left or right just won't do

2010-05-03T10:22:00.000-05:00

If you think that you've seen a Formula car take flight, wait until you see this leap frog move in Marakesh.

(via Autosport.com) Ricardo Teixeira walked away unscathed from a spectacular aerial accident in the second Formula 2 race at Marrakech on Sunday.

The Portuguese Angolan driver, who had scored the best result of his career with fifth place in Saturday's race, hit the back of Ivan Samarin's car and was launched skywards into a barrel roll.

Teixeira's car landed the right way up just as it hit the concrete wall, and spun down the track spitting out flames from the back. He was fortunate to climb out unhurt.

Ferrari 599XX production-derived sports car record at the Nordschleife - 6:58.16

2010-04-23T08:55:00.001-05:00

The Ferrari 599XX is the first ever production-derived sports car to break the 7-minute barrier on the classic 20.832 km Nordschleife circuit, lapping in 6 min 58.16 sec. Now some might question the definition of "production-derived ", but this is a pretty awesome lap. Enjoy!

[via World Car Fans]

The Fire Spitting, Tank Slapping Ford Sierra RS Cosworth

2010-04-12T08:49:00.000-05:00

I had to post this up because from the moment that I first saw this car I wanted one. I even drove a Merkur XR4ti for awhile just because it was the closest thing that I could find in the states to the "made to race" rally beast. Enjoy the sights and sounds of this wonder.

Car Porn Deluxe- "Return to Glory Edition"- BMW Practice for the 24 Hours at the Nurburgring

2010-04-01T08:25:00.001-05:00

The BMW team prepares for the 24 Hours Race on the most challenging race track on earth - the Nürburgring-Nordschleife. Enjoy!(via Tim Hahne and Vimeo)

Ausdauertraining from tim hahne on Vimeo.

Porsche to Completely Switch to HyBrid Power for 2012 Model Year

2010-04-01T05:44:00.000-05:00

Stuttgart -In a surprise move designed to allow Porsche to better compete with Tesla, Fisker and the Chevy Volt, the Chairman of Volkswagen AG, Mr. Ferdinand Piech, has announced that Porsche will be switching to Hybrid Power as the standard for their 2012 model line-up. The system will be known as Hybrid Porsche Control Rennsport Central Integration (HyPoCRaCI)

In his press release Mr. Piech states "In order to better suit the evolving needs of Porsche Owners, and to provide benefit to the Environment, Porsche feels that the move to HyPoCraCI is an important first step is making up for all of the oil that our cars have spilled at race tracks around the world." When questioned about the impact that Porsche's New System will have on the environment Mr Piech responded, "...Sure we know that most Porsche owners never take their cars out the garage, so we know that the impact will be minimal, but just think how emissions will be reduced at the Starbucks drive through line." he added, "I see a future where barristas accross america breath fresh clean air."

Happy April Fools Day

Michael Skeen, VIR, Ferrari F430 and one Fast Monte Carlo

2010-04-01T05:19:00.000-05:00

Some fun video of Mr. Michael Skeen working through the field at a NASA Mid-Atlantic event in a Ferrari F430 Challenge car. The Ferrari sounds amazing, and there are some surprisingly fast cars in the field including what appears to be the world's fastest Monte Carlo. Enjoy.

Mark "The Lou Ham Skewer" Webber - Malaysian GP Preview

2010-03-31T15:13:00.000-05:00

After a hard week at his home GP, Mark Webber provides us with a preview of the Malaysian GP's Sepang Circuit. In all seriousness if Hamilton wasn't busy bad mouthing his team on the radio he might of anticipated Webber's move. Anyway, I'm sure it will either be exciting (raining) or a snooze (Not raining)in Malaysia.

First Lap - BMW Z4 GT3 at the Nurburgring - Turn up the Volume

2010-03-31T09:09:00.000-05:00

First lap of the BMW Z4 GT3 at the Nürburgring Nordschleife. Driver Richarad Göransson for the Schubert Motorsport Team. Awesome Sound and Video. Enjoy!

Turner Motorsports - "Journey to 24" by Veloz Media

2010-03-07T09:04:00.000-06:00

Here's the trailer for the upcoming movie Journey to 24 by Veloz Media. The film is due out in the Spring of 2010. If the trailer is any indication of the quality of the film, it should be amazing. Enjoy!

JOURNEY TO 24 - The Turner Motorsport Webumentary (Final Teaser) from Veloz Media on Vimeo.

USF1 Fail - Exclusive behind the scenes video - Tailenders

2010-03-05T07:00:00.001-06:00

There is no way that they could have known how accurate they really were when they created these videos! Enjoy

Tailenders via Crash.net

The best one !!!

value="http://www.youtube.com/v/e0WZSTijeZM&hl=en_US&fs=1&">

How it is really done at VIR....

2010-02-25T09:16:00.001-06:00

Scuderia on track - Road Trip edition

2010-02-23T07:39:00.006-06:00

The Porsche contingent of the Scuderia was at VIR this last weekend with NASA southeast. Cars from all of sports-cardom were there from Spec Miatas and Spec E30s to F430 challenge cars, a couple of stock cars, and this beautiful F430 droptop that parked next to us.

Paul Newman said "If there is a heaven on earth, it is VIR." For the track enthusiast, I agree. The rolling hills are quite picturesque to look at and make the driving quite interesting and challenging. This track can be fun whether you have 100 or 500 horsepower. The climbing esses can be navigated at 100+ MPH, but dont ever apex early here:

The back straight after the oak tree turn is long and lets the high horsepower cars stretch their legs. You can always go into turn 14 faster than you think. There is also the 3-4-5 section where you will be punished if you get too greedy with the throttle. The amazing thing about the technical nature of this track is that it was laid out back in 1957 mostly by a trial and error method of grading the dirt, driving around on it, and grading some more.

According to Dr. Hooper Johnson, one of the founders of VIR: (courtesy of virhistory.com)

"The club members were looking for a place to build a track. George Arnold said he knew of a place that was not being used. He brought us some aerial photographs of the Foote farm up in Milton. I sat down at a table in the dining room at Baptist Hospital and sketched out where I thought the track should go. One of the doctors, Jesse Meridith knew a couple of road grading contractors, Horace and Harry Strickland from near his hometown of Mount Airy. They actually lived over in Virginia at Fancy Gap. Ed Welch, George Arnold and I took them up to the farm and drove through the grass to show them where the track should go. Dick Snyder was there with his Mercedes 300SL and we used the turning radius of his car to mark the radius of the horseshoe turn at the end of the front straight. The turning radius of the Strickland brothers' road grader was used to set the radius of Oak Tree turn. After they did the rough grading we would take our cars up there on weekends and run around on the dirt at up to 100 mph. We found one place where the cars would get airborne so Horace just took his grader and shaved off enough dirt to correct the problem. We became concerned about the drainage around the track so we waited for a big rainy spell and went up there and corrected the problems we saw."

Here is some video of my laps around the place: (no track records were broken here!)

Kimi meets (and narrowly misses) a Moose (but no Squirrel)

2010-02-22T07:11:00.000-06:00

I bet Boris and Natasha are behind this...

Porsche Intelligent Performance - 911 GT3 R Hybrid

2010-02-12T10:28:00.000-06:00

(via Edmunds) The GT3 R Hybrid will be used as what the Porsche engineers describe as a "racing laboratory" to gather knowledge about hybrid drive under the pressure of a racing environment. At the same time it will also advance the German carmaker's plans to introduce hybrid technology to selected road cars in its lineup. Indeed, a gasoline-electric hybrid was recently spied testing at the Porsche R&D facility at Weissach, near the company's headquarters in Stuttgart, apparently part of a program dubbed "Porsche Intelligent Performance."

In a departure from conventional battery-based electric systems used for hybrid drive by makers of both street cars and even racing cars, the Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid features a flywheel system. It gathers kinetic energy under braking to power two electric motors that are mounted in a single assembly connected to the front wheels. After each charge, the motors provide 6-8-second bursts of power.

The flywheel will spin as fast as 40,000 rpm. In the 911 GT3 R Hybrid, it's mounted where the passenger seat ordinarily would be and connected to the electric assembly in the front by a high-voltage cable. Two electronic management modules oversee the complete hybrid system, and the electric motors are engaged by pressing a button mounted on the steering wheel.

The electric motors provide a burst of 120 kilowatts (161 horsepower) to the front wheels, supplementing the 911 GT3 R Hybrid's 480-hp 4.0-liter flat-6 that powers the rear wheels. The benefit, according to Porsche, is quicker acceleration out of corners and during overtaking, and there are apparently unspecified fuel savings as well.

No official performance claims for the Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid have been made prior to its unveiling in Geneva, but Porsche has confirmed the new car will appear at the Nürburgring 24 Hours on May 15. Meanwhile, Porsche's new purpose-built racing car with hybrid technology is expected to be prepared for the 2012 edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, when the race's regulations will favor hybrid racing cars.

Zen lap of the Nurburgring - BMW M3

2010-02-09T09:07:00.000-06:00

I thought there was something beautifully simple about this lap of the Nordschliefe in this perfectly stock e46 M3. If you happen to be one of the folks, (like me) that started with a bone-stock car for track days that soon morphed into a collection of adjustable shocks, springs, brakes, wheels, seats and harnesses, it is kind of nice to see the purity of machine and track that exists in this video. Enjoy!

The new Porsche Turbo S - In Four Acts - Responsibility, Personality, Efficiency and History

2010-02-09T08:46:00.000-06:00

Although it sounds a little like a cross between the seven deadly sins and the launch of a new car, we bring you four new spots for the new Porsche Turbo S. Please enjoy "Responsibility," "Personality," "Efficiency demands Performance," and "History". A mix of some amazing footage with the narration style of a high-school hygiene film. (via Porsche)

Fall-line Motorsport at the Fresh from Florida 200 at Daytona.

2010-02-08T14:39:00.000-06:00

Some great video from 8 five 8 Pictures highlighting the efforts of Charles Espenlaub and the Fall-Line Motorsports Team during the Fresh from Florida 200 at Daytona. It's nice to see video that's not shot with a giant wide-angle lens. so that some perspective of speed is retained. It's even better to see Charles behind the wheel of a BMW. Enjoy!

Fresh from FL 200 Daytona 2010 Feat. Charles Espenlaub and Fall-Line Motorsports from Manuel Lopez on Vimeo.

Instructor = Fail - aka "Dan's last day as an Instructor"

2010-02-06T08:04:00.001-06:00

"I wasn't going to post this initially because it seems to be popping up everywhere, but after consideration I wanted to make certain that everyone had a chance to see how not to instruct your students on track. This guy is an embarrassment to all driving instructors.

Please note that the good folks that run Hooked on Driving have made certain that "Instructor Dan" is done with HOD events.

Car Porn Deluxe- "Spirit of Vic Elford Edition"- Porsche Legacy at Daytona

2010-02-03T09:14:00.001-06:00

The 48th running of the Rolex 24 at Daytona marks the 42nd anniversary of Vic Elford's victory in the Porsche 907, Porsche's first 24 hour endurance win. To celebrate the occasion, David Donohue pilots a 2010 Porsche GT3 around the Daytona road course while Vic Elford, the Grand Marshal for this year's race, tells the story of his victory for Porsche.

Car Porn Deluxe- Clash Productions - The Man and The Porsche

2010-01-27T12:49:00.003-06:00

Continued brilliance from Clash Productions. Enjoy!

Car Porn Deluxe- Turner Motorsport's M6- Journey to 24

2010-01-19T10:16:00.002-06:00

The news of Turner's move into the GT class and entry in the Daytona 24 has not only captured the attention of BMW racing fans worldwide, but also documentary filmmaking company Veloz Media, who is producing a behind-the-scenes Web TV series to chronicle the team's tremendous efforts and journey to the 24 hour race. This video production will provide a behind-closed-doors experience of preparing for and making it through this race of endurance and perseverance. A "teaser" video has been posted on the web and can be viewed at www.TurnerMotorsport.com/journey24.

Turner Motorsport Webumentary ROLEX 24 Race "teaser" from Veloz Media on Vimeo.

Highlights from the 1983 Trans-Am Race at Road America

2010-01-19T10:09:00.002-06:00

Those were the days...a field of 50 cars, going at it with hammer and tongs around the beautiful kettle moraine countryside. Plus a grid with David Hobbs, Paul Newman, and who could forget Willy T. Ribbs. Enjoy!

Greetings from Snowy Florida - Turner Motorsports BMW M6 winter testing at Daytona

2010-01-10T14:50:00.004-06:00

With the cold snap that was gripping the USA the teams in Daytona were greeted by morning temps around the freezing mark, but as you can see below the Turner Motorsports Team (pictured at left) didn't let cold concrete and cold tires stop them from flying around the banking at Daytona.

(pic via Veloz Media)

2010 Midwest / Great Lakes HPDE Schedule

2010-01-09T14:34:00.007-06:00

The cold days and snow are starting to drag me down, so I thought it might be best to start thinking about, and planning for, the warmer days ahead. (Hopefully dry and warm days ahead)

So to that end I starting compiling a master schedule of Mid-Western/Great Lakes HPDE's for 2010. Looking forward to seeing you at the track in 2010 and don't forget to check out the rest of ScuderiaAsinoGrigio.

PLEASE POST CHANGES / ADDITIONS IN THE COMMENT SECTION BELOW!

Image via (Road America on Facebook)

April 3-4 - Gingerman - Gingerman Open Track Weekend

April 9-11 - Mid-Ohio- NASA GL

April 10 - Gingerman.- 3BallsRacing

April 10-11 - Putnam Park- MVP Tracktime

April 17-18 – Gateway International - NASA

May 1-2 – Autobahn CC - Windy City BMW

May 15-16 - Putnam Park - NASA

May 15-16 – Autobahn CC - Northwoods Region Shelby Club

May 22-23 – Brainerd International - NASA

May 22-23 - Autobahn CC - TrackDaze

June 7- Autobahn Country Club (FULL 3.56 mile track) MVP Tracktime

June 12-13 - Blackhawk Farms - NASA

June 14 - Blackhawk Farms - Badger Bimmers

June 26-27 – Gingerman - Windy City BMW

July 2-4 - Gingerman - SEMPCA

July 12 - Blackhawk Farms - Badger Bimmers

July 12-13 - Road America - PCA Nord Stern DE

July 17, 18 - Autobahn Country Club- NASA

July 23-25 - Mid-Ohio- NASA GL

August 9- Autobahn Country Club (FULL 3.56 mile track) MVP Tracktime

August 13-15 - Mid-Ohio- NASA GL

August 21-22 – Putnam Park- NASA

August 23-28 - Road America - BMWCCA Octoberfest - Badger Bimmers

August 28-29 - Calabogie- 3BallsRacing

September 3-5 - Road America - PCA-Chicago TRAC

September 11-12 - Autobahn CC - NASA

September 18-19 – Eagles Canyon TX MVP Tracktime

September 26-27 - Putnam Park - Windy City BMW

October 1-3 - Road America - BMW Octoberfast- Badger Bimmers

October 9-10- Putnam Park- NASA

October 16-17 -Road America - MVP Tracktime

November 20-21 –Road Atlanta - MVP Tracktime

Jim Hall would be proud! How to turn your M3 into a Chaparral

2009-12-30T12:44:00.005-06:00

I'm not sure what series still allows for movable aerodynamic devices, but if you happen to compete in a series that does I'd recommend checking out this wing from Aeromotions. It adjusts wing angle for both left and right sections of the wing depending on g-load and speed. If the results are accurate it could shave seconds off your lap times. In this video the difference between no wing and the active wing is more than 2 seconds faster for the active wing.

If you ever wanted to drive a Chaparral or just want to go faster, you may want to give Aeromotions a serious look.

NASCAR returns to Road America - NASCAR meet Right turns and cheese.

2009-12-28T21:53:00.006-06:00

For the first time since 1956 it looks like the no-wiper, solid-axle and carburetor gang will be holding a national-series race at Road America. Thanks to AutoJava for the tip.

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Dec. 21, 2009) – NASCAR announced today that it will continue its 17-year streak of racing on a national-series level in Wisconsin with the addition of the historic Road America course to its 2010 NASCAR Nationwide Series schedule.

The Road America 200 at the 4.048-mile, 14-turn track located in Elkhart Lake, Wis., replaces the event previously scheduled at the Milwaukee Mile and will be run on Saturday, June 19. “We’re excited to be staying in Wisconsin and racing in front of the passionate fans there at a historic venue that’s new to our NASCAR Nationwide Series,” said Steve O’Donnell, NASCAR’s vice president of racing operations.

While Road America is new to the NASCAR Nationwide Series, it’s not the first time NASCAR has raced there. On Aug. 12, 1956, Tim Flock won the only other NASCAR national series race, in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, at the then one-year-old track. In 2001, current NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver – and Eau Claire, Wis. native – Paul Menard won there in the former NASCAR Re/Max Challenge Series.

“It’s a really great race track,” Menard said. “It’s in a very picturesque setting in the Wisconsin countryside. It has every kind of corner you can imagine. When I was a kid, my dad would take me to Road America. The fans love it there.

“By the second practice, I’m sure everyone will be up to speed because the drivers are so good in the Nationwide Series. Braking will be the hardest aspect. Strategy will play a big part in this race. I’m really excited about (the series) running there.”

Road America will be the third road course on the 2010 NASCAR Nationwide Series schedule. The series also will race at Watkins Glen International and at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in Montreal. As recently as the 2007-08 seasons, the NASCAR Nationwide Series also had three road courses on its schedule, racing at Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez in Mexico City in addition to The Glen and Circuit Gilles Villeneuve.
“Road America is a very unique track that will provide great racing and will test driver skill and ability on what is a very large course,” said Joe Balash, director of the NASCAR Nationwide Series. “And yes, we’ll be prepared to race in the rain if necessary,” he said, in reference to the series’ last two races in wet weather in Montreal. The 2008 event was the first NASCAR national series points race contested in the rain.

Merry Christmas from the Scuderia

2009-12-25T09:55:00.001-06:00

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays Everyone!

The Michael is Back - Schumacher to return to F1 in 2010

2009-12-23T08:39:00.002-06:00

So it's official, Michael Schumacher will drive for Mercedes F1 in 2010. He's the interview right from the horse's mouth.

It doesn't SUCK - Block vs. Pastrana - Game of SUCK highlights

2009-12-21T09:49:00.004-06:00

These two deserve an award for creative use of paintballs in a short film. Brilliant!

(via DC Shoes)

VIR Summer Slam - NASA GTS4 - Bryan Watts

2009-12-18T08:30:00.006-06:00

Some great action from NASA Summer Slam at VIR, these are taken from the great Bryan Watts' GTS4 BMW M3. Some great action and great driving Bryan and Derek Schwartz. Enjoy!

(via Bryan Watts and Vimeo)

Part 1 of the GTS4 Sunday sprint race. Derek Schwarz (#815 white Porsche) and I traded positions 4 times, hanging out on each others bumpers for most of the race. A last lap pass at the end of the back straight into the top of roller coaster decided the winner.

It is interesting to see the differences between Derek's lighter car and our heavier, more powerful car (313 rwhp and 2760 in GTS4 trim). Derek seemed to have an advantage out of the hole and in braking while our car seemed better at the end of the straights and in the high speed corners. This was also the first weekend I've run R-comps on our car in 9 years...the "slicks" setup resulted in some interesting oversteer as the race went on.

2009 VIR Summer Slam - NASA GTS4 - Sunday Sprint Part 1 from Bryan Watts on Vimeo.

Part 2 of the GTS4 Sunday sprint race. Derek Schwarz (#815 white Porsche) and I traded positions 4 times, hanging out on each others bumpers for most of the race. A last lap pass at the end of the back straight into the top of roller coaster decided the winner.

It is interesting to see the differences between Derek's lighter car and our heavier, more powerful car (313 rwhp and 2760 in GTS4 trim). Derek seemed to have an advantage out of the hole and in braking while our car seemed better at the end of the straights and in the high speed corners. This was also the first weekend I've run R-comps on our car in 9 years...the "slicks" setup resulted in some interesting oversteer as the race went on.

2009 VIR Summer Slam - NASA GTS4 - Sunday Sprint Part 2 from Bryan Watts on Vimeo.

Car Porn Deluxe-" Sturm und Drang"edition - Clash Productions Promo

2009-12-13T15:25:00.002-06:00

Another genius effort at capturing motor racing from the folks at Clash Productions. As per always, a gorgeous views and terrific sounds. Enjoy!

TITAN MOVIE 6MIN Preview - NURBURGRING from Clashproduction on Vimeo.

It's not just the sexy name that confuses me...

2009-12-13T15:06:00.002-06:00

So, I give you the BMW Z4 sDrive35is, (remember when you could just say M Roadster?) , possible the most confused car, in both name and part list, available for sale today. Say it out loud, Z4 sDrive35is, it makes the Qvale Mangusta sound sexy.

If you can look past the name,(good luck) then, try to reconcile it's non M-badged flanks with the high number of M-badged parts, although remember this is not an M-car, nor is there to be an M-version of the Z4. More power under the hood, twin-clutch drive, and a sexy convertible top, but for some reason I'm still just not feeling it. What are your thoughts?

Car Porn Deluxe-" Best in the World"edition - Classic Porsche 911RS 2.7

2009-11-30T20:11:00.004-06:00

It doesn't get much better than this! Enjoy!

NASCAR Strategy - Pretty Complex Stuff!

2009-11-24T11:31:00.003-06:00

Priceless! Thanks to AutoJava for the find!

(via The Onion)

NASCAR Coach Reveals Winning Strategy: 'Drive Fast'

Car Porn Deluxe-" Falken-er"edition - Go-Pro HD around Laguna Seca

2009-11-18T14:58:00.005-06:00

Some great HD footage around Laguna Seca in the Falken Tires Porsche 911GT3 RSR shot with the new GoPro Hero cam HD. I think that the Scuderia needs to pick one up for next year's track season. Enjoy!

Jenson signs with McLaren - Six Million Pounds for Car #1

2009-11-18T11:47:00.005-06:00

It's funny how much McLaren is willing to pay for a #1 and #2 on their cars in 2010. Everyone's best guess is about 6 Million Pounds per year. Too bad that between Jenson and Lewis they only tend to win races in the beginning of the season (when they have the technical edge) as opposed to the end of the season. What do you think? Is this pairing the next Prost/Senna or is it Alonso/Piquet?

Car Porn Deluxe-"Balls of Steel"edition - Lotus Elise Racing

2009-11-18T10:41:00.002-06:00

I'm often impressed with how close the competition is within a spec racing series. Similar cars and driver skill levels keep the racing close and the cars stacked up. This short clip of spec-Elise racing action shows what it takes to get to the front of the field, when everyone shows up with the same car. I think that the short-answer here is "balls of steel". Enjoy!

Top Gear Season 14 - Convertible Supercars Driven - James May Crashes a Lambo in Romania

2009-11-16T08:49:00.006-06:00

Season 14 Episode 1. Enjoy!

UPDATE - Part 6 Restored!

Part1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

Part 5

Part 6

Car Porn Deluxe - "Fast guy in a Fast car" edition - Mike Skeen in a 996

2009-11-08T10:04:00.003-06:00

So we've seen Mike Skeen in Spec e30's, regular e30 325's and Pontiac Solstices giving clinics to other drivers on the fastest way around the track. This time Mike shows us (and the car's owner) what this 996 car do around CMP. Enjoy!

BMW M3 GTS - Part 2 - In Motion

2009-11-08T09:49:00.002-06:00

Starting to want one...

BMW M3 GTS - Quick teaser video

2009-11-05T16:18:00.002-06:00

From BMW

2010 BMW M3 GTS - The Perfect BMW track car if you have 115,000euro and don't live in the USA.

2009-11-05T11:39:00.007-06:00

Confirming months of rumors and photographic evidence, BMW M GmbH has released photos and details of it's newest M model the 2010 BMW M3 GTS. Adding racing hardware and lightness to the current M3 chassis, the track-ready M3 GTS should be better able to keep up with more serious hardware on a racetrack, including BMW's obvios bogey, the Porsche GT3 Clubsport.

Unfortunately, there are no current plans to bring this car to the US, and based on BMW's past history around limited production models, (M3 CSL) I would say that it's a pretty safe bet that the only place a US citizen will see one in the United States is in a magazine.

(via NetCarShow.com)

With the BMW M3 GTS, BMW M GmbH now offers a truly outstanding performer based on the BMW M3 Coupé also ideal for Clubsport events - exactly the right car for the truly discerning customer demanding the very utmost in terms of power and performance. The BMW M3 GTS is largely hand-built by the most skilled craftsmen at BMW M GmbH as a perfectly harmonised package of outstanding modifications, with production exclusively to the customer's personal order. Focused on motorsport, the modifications comprise both the drivetrain, the suspension and the body of the car, as well as its interior. Market launch of the BMW M3 GTS will be in spring 2010.

Offering this truly exclusive model for the genuine motorsport enthusiast, BMW M GmbH is continuing a great tradition introduced on former generations of the BMW M3. Once again, the outstanding sports potential of the BMW M3 is being consistently enhanced and upgraded to an even higher level, the customer benefiting from the Company's wide range of know-how in the development and production of racing cars. Through its race-oriented modifications enhancing both performance and safety, the BMW M3 GTS is ready to go in Clubsport events on the track and comes with the option for homologation on the road. So that the driver is able to make his way to the race track in the very same car he will use for racing.

Consistent lightweight construction, adjustable aerodynamic units, an increase in engine size and output on the V8 high-speed power unit and suspension technology meeting all the requirements of motorsport - all this gives the BMW M3 GTS a top position among high-performance cars built for Clubsport racing. Unladen weight according to the DIN standard is less than 1,500 kg (3,300 lb), the lightweight body comes with special mounts for six-point seat belts and a rollcage fitted behind the B-pillar.

Through its design and construction, the materials used and its special equipment, the BMW M3 GTS is a lightweight performer all the way, offering a genuine motorsport driving experience in every respect. In addition to the carbon fibre roof already featured as standard on the BMW M3, weight is consistently optimised by features such as silencers made of titanium, the extra-light centre console and door linings, the omission of rear seats, automatic air conditioning and an audio system, as well as sound insulation tailored specifically to this very special model.

V8 high-speed power unit: derived from motorsport, optimised for motorsport.

The eight-cylinder power unit of the BMW M3 GTS enlarged in size to 4.4 litres and boosted in output to some 450 hp boasts construction principles and technical details carried over directly from motorsport. A supreme surge of ongoing power throughout a wide range of engine speed characterises the outstanding performance of the V8 with its high-speed concept. The features typical of a motorsport engine include the crankcase made of a special aluminium-silicon alloy and constructed in bedplate design, individual throttle butterflies, anti-knock sensors with ion flow technology, and, wet sump oil supply optimised for supreme driving dynamics.

Seven-speed M DKG Drivelogic with race-bred gearshift.

Power is transmitted in the BMW M3 GTS by the M double-clutch gearbox with Drivelogic also available as an option on the regular production model. This seven-speed M DKG Drivelogic gearbox follows a principle also developed for motorsport, shifting gears without the slightest interruption of engine power. The transmission was developed specifically for a particularly powerful high-speed engine and offers ideal qualities for truly dynamic acceleration at all times. The gearshift characteristics on the seven-speed M DKG Drivelogic have been tailored specifically to the modified power unit of the BMW M3 GTS and the driver is able to shift gears both through the selector lever on the centre console and through special M shift paddles on the steering wheel.

High-performance suspension with purpose-built brakes.

To convey the supreme power of the engine to the road in equally supreme style even under the most extreme conditions, the BMW M3 GTS comes with suspension technology likewise derived from the highest realms of motorsport. While the suspension is based on the front and rear axle of the BMW M3 Coupé, the rear axle subframe is bolted firmly in position and the suspension features adjustment threads on the dampers for individual variation of the inbound and rebound strokes.

The high-performance brake system of the BMW M3 GTS features fixed callipers with six pistons up front and four pistons on the rear wheels. The race-oriented set-up of DSC Dynamic Stability Control naturally considers the supreme dynamic potential of the BMW M3 GTS. Different-sized tyres front and rear running on 19-inch M light-alloy Competition rims in double-spoke design ensure optimum transmission of acceleration and brake forces to the road.

Aerodynamics: optimised components with variable geometry.

To optimise the flow of air and adjust the car's downforce as required, the BMW M3 GTS comes with a race-oriented front air dam and rear wing. This allows appropriate adjustment of the car's aerodynamic qualities in motorsport and for other purposes, tailored to the specific profile of the respective track. The air guidance units on the front air dam, for example, may be varied in their geometry, just like the position of the rear wing based on the wing already featured on the BMW 320si raced in the WTCC World Touring Car Championship.

Exterior features such as the BMW kidney grille and the gills at the side finished in chrome on the regular BMW M3 come in special dark eloxy-plated chrome on the BMW M3 GTS.

Special interior for supreme performance and safety.

The interior of the BMW M3 GTS clearly reflects the focus on supreme performance and safety on the race track. The interior features include classic bucket seats, interior trim in carbon and an M steering wheel finished in alcantara. The door and side panels at the rear also come in alcantara, while six-point seat belts delivered with the car for subsequent use, a fire extinguisher and preparation for an emergency-off switch in motorsport round off the wide range of special features inside the car.

Car Porn Deluxe- "Double Special Edition" Edition - New Porsche Boxster Spyder

2009-11-05T08:53:00.004-06:00

Calling this latest Porsche special edition the Boxster Spyder, feels a little like when VW came out with the Cabrio Convertible, but like most things manufactured in Austria and marketed by Stuttgart, I'm sure they'll sell a bunch of them. Dentists need cars too ya know!

Least surprising newsflash ever- Toyota leaves F1 !

2009-11-04T10:13:00.003-06:00

In one of the most predictable news stories of the racing year, Toyota has announced that they are departing the F1 scene in 2009. After spending $400M a year without a win,Toyota has decided to stop lining Bernie's pockets with gold on what is becoming the most boring, controversy laden spec series in the world. Bon Vonyage Toyota.

Car Porn Deluxe -"I'd like to live there" edition - BMW e92 M3

2009-10-28T11:51:00.003-05:00

Gee...when I slide around corners my wife just looks pissed! No the case in this video fantasy from, wait for it, BanditoGarage . Enjoy!

Internet Forum Debate Over - We finally have pictorial evidence that Bolt-in cages can fail, catastrophically.

2009-10-28T10:17:00.005-05:00

Found these photos of a 5.0 Mustang and Super Fords Magazine's December 2009 cover car leaping over the fence at the Hallet Circuit in Oklahoma. Surprisingly the real story isn't that a car with a ton of brake and suspension mods apparently can't slow-down or turn, it's that as we have been cautioned about multiple internet forums, bolt-in roll bars may in fact punch through the floor of the car in a roll-over crash. In this case it was 10 inches of an Autopower bar that came through on both sides of the car.

So before your next flame-baiting knock down drag out fight on this forum poisoning topic, remember these photos and have some plates welded to the bottom of your bolt-in roll bar.

(via Jalopnik)

Jean Todt is the new FIA President - Status Quo Reigns Supreme

2009-10-24T09:56:00.003-05:00

Car Porn Deluxe - "$80,000 Point-by " Edition - Mike Skeen Gives a Clinic

2009-10-21T17:13:00.004-05:00

Came across this excellent video showing how a truly skilled driver car make a car faster. Mike is piloting Jason Franklin's e36 325i, and as you can see from the video is running down cars with significant advantages in traction and power. Thanks for the video and the lesson Mr. Skeen. Bravo!

Car Porn Deluxe - "Supra-er" Edition - The Lexus LF-A

2009-10-21T08:55:00.004-05:00

At an asking pricing of $400,000, I might have suggested that they call it the LmFAo. And while the specs are impressive,

* 4.8-liter 72-degree V10 putting out 560 hp at 8,700 RPM (that's 116.5 hp/liter) and 354 lb.-ft. of torque at 6,800 RPM
* Redline: 9,000 RPM
* Titanium valves, connecting rods, forged aluminum pistons, dry sump lubrication and a titanium exhaust manifold
* Six-speed sequential gearbox
* Torsen limited slip differential
* 3,263 pounds with a 48/52 front-to-rear weight distribution
* Power-to-weight ratio of 5.8 pounds/hp
* 65 percent of the body is carbon fiber
* 20-inch BBS wheels wrapped in 265/35 ZR20 Bridgestone tires in front and 305/30 ZR20 in the rear.
* 0-62 MPH (100 km/h) in 3.7 seconds
* Top speed of 201.94 MPH
* Production limited to 500 units

I just can't see how many folks will want to sign-up for Ferrari 599 performance and price, with the cache of Lexus.

Enjoy?

Car Porn Deluxe - "Cool, but's its not coming here" edition - BMW e92 M3 CSL / GT4 Prototype

2009-10-20T16:52:00.006-05:00

Although BMW's M Division is reluctant to confirm the existence of a e92-bodied M3 CSL / GT4 program, the short video below would lead me to believe that BMW is serious about producing a track day version of their 3800 lbs GT car. While I'd love to see BMW get serious and provide a GT car that car carry four R-comp tires to a track day and then give reasonable chase to a Porsche GT-3, my guess is that BMW is just trying not to get too much sand kicked in it's face by the upcoming Audi RS4/RS5.

Only time will tell. Enjoy!

The Scuderia back on track - Bratwurst and Snowtire Edition- Badger Bimmer's Oktoberfast

2009-10-18T15:10:00.004-05:00

The Scuderia finished up the 2009 Midwestern track season with a three-day home stand at the friendly confines of Road America in lovely Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin. The Badger Bimmers Fall event is know to attract drivers from around the region and from across the country to this extremely friendly and well-run HPDE. While this event is traditionally held in September, schedule fallout from the SCCA run-offs, as well as a planned BMWCCA national Octoberfest planned for 2010 contributed to a shift in dates to the second weekend in October.

Historically this weekend treats us to temps in the mid 60's to low 70's with lots of Autumn sun. This wasn't the case this year with hotel parking lot temps ranging between 32 and 28 degrees welcoming us to the Dairy State, and variable snow showers testing the fortitude of the drivers, corner workers, and safety crews throughout the day on Saturday.

One thing that makes this weekend worth the trip (aside from a great breakfast at The All-Season Restaurant with the corner workers) is the wide range of metal that shows up for this event. This year there were some of the usual suspects (for this event) Ferrari 333sp, a handful of race prepared Corvettes, a Porsche Cup Car, multiple Porsche Turbos, and Prepared M3's, but this year they were joined by a Radical SR3, Viper ACR and Porsche GT-2 (in black/orange RS colors )

The weekend ended with a minimum of incidents, given the prevailing weather conditions, with all of the Scuderia able to drive off and/or able to mount a trailer on their own power. Looking forward to seeing you at Road America in 2010. Maybe you too can get some experience with the snow-line, or find out what slicks are like in the snow at 140mph, its worth the trip.

Car Porn Deluxe - "Polizei Vice Edition" - Team Polizei Time Lapse NY to MIA

2009-10-15T08:54:00.001-05:00

Enjoy!

Renault Guarantees Pole in 2010 - Signs Robert Kubica as Alonso's Replacement

2009-10-07T10:18:00.008-05:00

While it appears that the 2009 Silly Season in Formula 1 started in March this year, the number of confirmed drivers for 2010 just increased by one with the Renault F1 Team's signing of Robert Kubica. Based on the press releases that have been circling it appears as though Robert Kubica's contract with Renault in for one year only, not surprising in a sport where the remaining manufacturer-based teams keep a clear path to the exit just in case the share-holders get nervous about the F1 budget.

The move to Renault is actually a return for Robert who started his F1 career with a Renault test session before being snapped up by BMW-Sauber. Hopefully Robert finds the 2010 Renault more to his liking than the 2009 BMW-Sauber, which combined with some of his ambitious passing maneuvers has netted him only 9 points so far this year.

Best of luck Robert, anyone that can take the kind of hit that he did in Montreal in 2007 and return to racing cars is one of the few bright spots in Formula 1 today.

Car Porn Deluxe - "Snow-Shoe Edition" - Porsches and White Powder and it's not even Miami

2009-10-07T08:35:00.004-05:00

As someone who mounts up the snow tires on his M3 and chugs through the Chicago winters, I truly respect and admire Porsche for shaming those who park their cars in inclement weather. Cars are meant to be driven, and with some decent winter tires and a little talent it can even be fun. Enjoy!

Car Porn Deluxe - 1963 SCCA USRRC Championship at Road America

2009-10-05T08:46:00.004-05:00

Some amazing footage of the 4.01 mile wonder that is Road America from the days before ARMCO barriers, harnesses or proper helmets. Some great Elva, Porsche and Cobra action as well from Bob Holbert, Ken Miles and Augie Pabst. Enjoy!

(via William Stenson and Jalopnik)

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Tribute to Attilio Bottega in Anticipation of The Discovery Channel HD carrying the WRC tonight at 8PM est

2009-10-04T13:08:00.004-05:00

Attention WRC fans in the USA, the Discovery Channel HD Theater will be showing the Rally of Ireland tonight at 7pm CST/8pm EST. While The Discovery Channel will be showing 4 hours of rally racing action as a lead up to to the action, we thought that it would be fun to serve up some rally action from the salad days of rally racing with a tribute to one of the masters, Attilio Bottega. Enjoy!

Grand Am Koni Challenge -Turner Motorsports' M3 at Miller Motorsports Park w/ Joey Hand

2009-09-28T16:56:00.002-05:00

Awesome dusk battle between the Turner Motorsports e46 M3 piloted by Joey Hand and a smattering of Porsche 911's, and an e92 M3. Nice work Joey!

2009 SCCA National Championships at Road America

2009-09-25T10:57:00.003-05:00

View it live here!

http://www.speedcasttv.com/

It should be an exciting weekend.

Schedule for the weekend.

NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP RACES

ALL RACES 13 LAPS OR 40 MIN., WHICHEVER ELAPSES FIRST.

RACE TIMES ARE GREEN FLAG TIMES.

FRI 9/25 SAT 9/26 SUN 9/27

8:30 GTL T3/SSB FE

9:30 CSR FM GT2

10:30 T2 SM F500

11:30 S2 SRF HP

LUNCH

1:30 AS FV FF

2:30 SSC T1 GT1

3:30 FP FC DSR

4:30 FA GT3 EP

New Evidence in Crashgate Probe

2009-09-21T10:33:00.007-05:00

I can see why the FIA took the actions that they did...they evidence looks indisputable!

(via Syrax @ Jalopnik)

Briatore Banned ! Renault and Pat Symonds Suspended for Two Years and Five Years!

2009-09-21T08:48:00.004-05:00

So Flavio is out, sentenced to a life of billionaire excess with his super-model wife. Pat Symonds and Renault were banned for 5 years and two years respectively, but as Renault had the good sense to push Flavio and Symonds onto their own swords, their ban is suspended. As for Nelson Piquet Jr., the man who never was, he will need to be content with the knowledge that he took the cowards' way out...twice.

This lifetime ban is the harshest ever handed out in the sport of motor-racing, and "Crash gate" is the latest blemish in a sport and series that truly has lost it's way. Even after all that, I'm still surprised that a room full of people think that Nelson Piquet Jr. had the car control skills to crash at will.

I thought that the article below was an interesting take on the matter.

(via the Independent.ie)

So Renault F1 will not contest the allegations against them of race-fixing during last year's Singapore Grand Prix. Team boss Flavio Briatore and engineering director Pat Symonds beat a hasty exit once they knew the game was up. For Renault, after all their years in F1, they end up with their valuable name and the word 'cheating' juxtaposed. It is a public relations nightmare.

The highly regarded CEO of Renault, Carlos Ghosn, whose sobriquet is 'Le Cost Killer', said they will not act irrationally in advance of the hearing by the FIA tomorrow. That roughly translates as 'this is the perfect opportunity to exit the sport'. Not only is it a get out of financial jail card, but with Renault's name tainted, they need to keep a low profile. Whether the manufacturer leaves of its own volition, or gets forced out by the FIA, remains to be seen.

It is inconceivable that their F1 lieutenants should have jeopardised Renault's reputation with such an outlandish plan to get one team-mate, Nelson Piquet Jnr, to deliberately crash out in order to help another team-mate, Fernando Alonso, win the race. That is taking race strategy beyond the pale.

Briatore forced this young driver to effectively hold a gun to his head in a game of Russian roulette and in doing so the Renault F1 boss lost all rationale and perspective. To treat people with such contempt, especially when they are already out there risking their lives, is pernicious.

Eddie Irvine doesn't see it like that and believes the whole thing has been blown out of proportion. "F1 has always been a war, and in war all is fair. When I was in various teams, you would do anything to win. In those days it was normal."

Well, when you enter the world of F1 you make a pact with the devil, but even Satan would raise an eyebrow at the tactics employed by Briatore.

It is also incredible that Piquet should accede to such a demand. When it was pointed out to him on a map of the circuit which part would be the most opportunistic to crash out, did he not say: 'You are asking me to crash into a wall and possibly kill myself, are you f****** crazy?'

There is also a conflict of interest. Flavio Briatore was not only his boss but also his manager. Piquet was hanging onto his drive by the skin of his teeth. Briatore put him in an impossible position -- do as I say or you're out. It is said that Briatore is regarded in the paddock with a mixture of fear, suspicion and envy. Sounds like he earned his spurs.

Was Flavio so naive as to think Piquet wouldn't go straight to the FIA with his little secret when he failed to renew the Brazilian's contract? So far we've had blackmail, threats of lawsuits and counter-threats. But Briatore sealed his own fate. The flamboyant 59-year-old Italian had become more famous for being in the gossip columns than for his day job. He had more supermodels than you could shake a carrot at. He had so many fingers in so many pies he'd run out of digits.

Apart from his Renault gig and managing the careers of Mark Webber and Heikki Kovalainen, he'd been hanging out on Billionaire's Boulevard, co-buying Queen's Park Rangers with Bernie Ecclestone and Lakshmi Mittal. He owns The Billionaire Club in Sardinia and Monte Carlo. He has a posh London restaurant, a nightclub and a Kenyan estate 'Lion under the Sun', frequented by Bono.

Last year he took time out to marry his girlfriend, a 29-year-old wonderbra model, though what first attracted her to the would-be-billionaire is not known. At least Flavio can now spend more time on his $68m super-yacht banishing his billionaire blues.

It wasn't all plain sailing for this self-made high-achiever. Back in the 1970s, he was an assistant to an Italian businessman who was later mysteriously killed by a car bomb, which had nothing to do with Briatore, but around the same time he was sentenced in the Italian courts to four and a half years in prison for fraud. He fled to a Caribbean island and that was the end of that.

Meeting Luciano Benetton when he worked at the Italian stock exchange was a watershed moment. He became a director of Benetton's US division and subsequently took over the reins of Benetton F1.

He pinched Michael Schumacher from under Eddie Jordan's nose and the German went on to win two drivers' titles in 1994 and '95 and gave Benetton their first constructors' championship in '95. In 2000, Renault purchased the Benetton team and Flavio's new charge, Fernando Alonso, won two drivers' and two constructors' championships.

Briatore fired Jenson Button in favour of Alonso and back then he commented: "Time will tell if I am wrong." Eddie Jordan and Briatore were close. They both enjoyed the partying and razzmatazz of F1. Flavio, in a show of friendship, once offered Eddie and his family the use of his Kenyan retreat. Eddie duly accepted and enjoyed the hospitality in the wonderful surroundings of this fabulous facility. Meanwhile, back in the UK, Briatore, it is alleged, worked overtime luring a sponsor away from Jordan. By the time Eddie returned from the holiday, the sponsor had switched teams. There are not many who can boast of pulling the wool over EJ's eyes.

In the 1980s, when there was a bomb scare close to where he lived in London, it turned out the IRA had abandoned a bomb outside his house.

Piquet described Briatore as his executioner, but it turned out to be the other way round. So after an illustrious career in F1, Briatore faces an uncertain future. He always said he didn't want to spend his dotage in F1 so he got what he wanted, albeit earlier than expected.

Next weekend we re-visit the scene of last year's crime, the Singapore Grand Prix. Remember it's a night race and the drivers' body clocks will have to adjust to strange racing times in a foreign time-zone. They will try to keep European hours which means eating dinner at 5am, a challenge in itself. The inaugural race proved a resounding success last year and the floodlit setting looked spectacular.

It's a pity there's a scent of scandal hanging over it. Though that's the least of their worries; the smog haze that has enveloped their city is a more immediate problem and one they hope will have gone by the weekend.

Brawn's Button and Barrichello will be fighting tooth and nail as their battle gets personal. Barrichello seems to be in the ascendancy having won again in Monza, while the money is on Button. But since it's Singapore, maybe it should be a case of 'all bets are off'.

Car Porn Deluxe - "okay I get it already" edition - Ferrai 458 Italia Official Video

2009-09-15T21:42:00.003-05:00

A "track mouse" versus "country mouse" exhibition of the Ferrari 458 Italia. I know which one I would vote for. Enjoy!

Scuderia On Track - Porsche contingent @ TRAC 2009 DE/club race

2009-09-09T20:25:00.027-05:00

I spent the Labor Day weekend at Road America for the Chicago Region PCA's TRAC DE and club race. It was a busy weekend from Friday to Monday, with DE sessions on all days mixed with test and tune for club racers on Friday, sprint races on Sunday, and the enduro races on Monday. Saturday evening there was a concours in front of Siebkens. 356 luv after the jump:

TRAC concours photos

BTW, the silver speedster is for sale if anyone is interested!

Here are some pics mostly from the Enduro race on Monday:

TRAC club race phots

If you look closely at the one of the pictures of the pack heading toward turn 5, you will see a red Cayman pace car. I didnt drive on Monday because I had volunteered to be the "communicator" in the pace car, which basically means sitting in the passenger seat and relaying the pace car drivers response to the race steward. 30 minutes before the race start, we went to pick up the car that had been volunteered and found that it was leaving early with its owner. So, I volunteered my car for the day. The closest I have gotten to club racing so far!

Here are some video clips taken from various points around the track of the Yellow enduro group race. The camera is hand held so it is a bit shaky at times.

An (Old) Man's Dream Comes True - Fisichella to Ferrari for 2009

2009-09-03T11:31:00.006-05:00

So it looks like Giancarlo Fisichella is having the best week ever...Pole at Spa with Force India, followed by a Podium at Spa with that same Force India, and now he is joining Ferrari for the remainder of the 2009 Season.

This should be good news for the Tifosi, based on how Fisi challenged Kimi for position for most of the race, in his non-KERS equipped Force India-Mercedes. In the same car, Fisi will likely give the Finn some much needed competition.

Of course this news puts to rest any opportunity to see Michael Schumacher back in an Ferrari F1 car, so maybe Michael's neck injury was worse than reported. Full story below.

(Via F1-Live.com)

It as been confirmed this afternoon that Giancarlo Fisichella has been released from his contract with Force India to join Ferrari for the remainder of the season, starting next weekend with the Italian Grand Prix.

“I am very grateful to Vijay Mallya for allowing me this opportunity to drive for the Scuderia Ferrari,” said Fisichella. “It is true that it has always been an ambition to do this, and for Vijay [Mallya] to have allowed it to become a reality is very generous. I hope in my turn I have helped Force India grow up and be on the right path to achieve their own ambitions. They are now a very competitive team and I wish them all the very best.”

With Felipe Massa, currently recovering from injuries sustained in Hungary, out of action for the remainder of the season and test veteran Badoer failing to shine at both Valencia and Spa Francorchamps, the Italian team were left with little alternative other than to look elsewhere for the remainder of the season.

"Giancarlo and his management team approached me yesterday with the proposal from Ferrari," stated Force India team principal Vijay Mallya. "For any Italian driver, a Ferrari race seat is a long-held dream and for Giancarlo it was no exception. No one should stand in the way of this.

"Furthermore the agreement will secure Giancarlo's long-term future with Ferrari and it would be incorrect to jeopardise this, particularly when Giancarlo has made such a vital contribution to Force India.

"

Ferrari team principal Stefano Domenicali was keen to praise the outgoing Badoer as well as welcoming Fisichella to the Italian team.

“We have chosen Fisichella because we can expect him to make a valuable contribution in this final part of the season,” said Domenicali. “Giancarlo has shown, throughout his long career that he is fast and competitive and we are therefore proud to be able to run an Italian driver in our home race.”

For Badoer, his final two Grand Prix were something of a ‘thank you’ from Ferrari for his long standing service to the team as test driver. "We wish to thank Luca Badoer for the team spirit he demonstrated in these circumstances," said Domenicali. "It is a shame he was unable to show his true worth in these last two races, tackled under conditions which anyone would have found difficult.”

Ferrari is third in the constructors’ championship and heading to its home race at Monza and will be looking to extend their 12 points cushion over the recovering McLaren Mercedes team.

Force India is expected to promote test driver Tonio Liuzzi to the race team in place of Fisichella with an announcement “in the coming days”.

Here's the proof in the pudding...Fisi's qualifying lap at Spa.

The Duck is Back and Madder than Hell - Porsche Limited Edition 911 Sport Classic.

2009-09-02T09:43:00.005-05:00

This may appear to be shameless pandering to wealthy Porsche collectors that haven't been able to find a RS 2.7 for their own personnal collection, and likely it is just that. But I have to say that Porsche appears to have created a thing of beauty by adding the ugly duckling's tail to their current wide-body 911 chasis. Some will call this an attempt by Porsche to help boost flagging sales, which is true no-doubt. But listen to the exhaust note of the race-bred 3.8 from the video and tell me that you don't want one. Even just a little?

(VIA Motorauthority)

A legend is back. Porschetoday unveiled a modern interpretation of its legendary 1973 Carrera RS 2.7, complete with a 'ducktail' spoiler and ‘Fuchs-style’ custom alloy wheels. The new car is called the 911 Sport Classic and it’s set to grace the automaker’s stand at this month’sFrankfurt auto show.

The latest model will be limited to just 250 units worldwide when it goes on sale early next year and both right- and left-hand-drive models will be available.

Other unique elements of the car include its 'double bubble' roof, similar to the design seen on the Carrera GT supercar and some of Porsche’s racing cars, as well as a new front spoiler, bi-xenon headlamps with black surrounds and the Sport Chrono Package Plus.

Although based on the Carrera S, the 911 Sport Classic gets the 44 mm wider body of the Carrera 4S and a 400 horsepower version of the legendary 3.8-liter flat-six engine. The extra power is courtesy of a new intake and engine management system, as well as modified cylinder heads.

There is also the new variable-resonance intake system, featuring six vacuum-controlled flaps that optimize the oscillation of air in the intake manifold for a better cylinder charge. This ensures there is the perfect amount of air in the combustion chamber at all times to optimize torque, which peaks at 310 pound-feet at 4,200 rpm.

The end result is a 0-62 mph time of just 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 187 mph. Other modifications include a 20 mm suspension lowering kit, a limited-slip differential, and carbon-ceramic brakes.

Mike Skeen at Road Atlanta - e36 M3

2009-08-31T20:32:00.004-05:00

The Scuderia always enjoys an opportunity to watch Mike Skeen pilot a car around a track. It's a double payoff when it's an M3 and a nationally known and well liked track like Road Atlanta. I love the way he casually cuts through the field. Nice Work Mike.

Enjoy!

Car Porn Deluxe - "Double Brat" Edition- Guy Cosmos' 2:16 Pole Lap Around Road America

2009-08-29T10:43:00.002-05:00

Brilliant Lap! As clean as they come. Enjoy!

Track Addicts Rejoice - Porsche Announces 2010 GT3 Cup

2009-08-26T14:02:00.004-05:00

Introducing the 2010 Porsche Gt-3 Cup, which will debut at the 2009 Frankfurt auto show. Wearing a wing likely designed by Airbus, but sharing most body panels and engine with the 2010 GT3RS the Porsche 911 Gt-3 Cup offers a factory built race-ready version of the current 997 chassis. So for the bargain basement price of $215,000 (probably less than you will be able to buy a GT-3RS from a dealer) you will be able to order this plutonium-grade track weapon directly from Porsche.

Any takers?

Scuderia On Track @ Putnam Park - The Aftermath

2009-08-25T09:53:00.009-05:00

We were at Putnam Park last weekend with the Windy City BMWCCA. Aside from some clouds, the cool weather was quite a welcome break from the usual 90 degree August temperatures.

I have some video from the 2007 Putnam DE, which was my first time on the track with the Cayman and my second HPDE. I had been at Road America in April of that year with my wife's E90 BMW 330. I had fun at RA with the BMW, but I didnt get hooked until I got out there with the Cayman.

This is some video from the 2nd session on Sunday:

During this 2 year descent into track addiction, I have lowered the car with Bilstein PSS9s and put in some Racetech seats w/ 6 pt. harnesses. I have avoided doing any engine related mods. I am running Nitto NT-01 tires.

From my advanced video analysis, it looks like I am doing about 1:23-1:25 laps. According to Trackpedia, I am about as fast as a Spec Pinata or 944. I guess I have more work to do :) Maybe time for a Traqmate and Hoosiers?

Scuderia Back on Track - Putnam Park with Windy City BMWCCA

2009-08-21T09:57:00.005-05:00

Heading down to lovely Greencastle, Indiana, home of DePauw University, an original German V1 rocket (at the Municipal Building), a bunch of covered bridges and Putnam Park racetrack. (Which is actually in neighboring Mt. Meridian, IN). Putnam Park was developed and is owned by Richard Diasio, and his sons, who are the builders of the Diasio 962 Race Car and Flo-Fast Fuel transfer pumps.

Unfortunately it looks like we have some really cool weather and possibly some rain in store for the weekend, but it should make for some exciting on track action.

Hopefully we get some video and pictures from the weekend. Peace.

Car Porn Deluxe - "Heir to the Throne" edition - Tom Milner Jr.and the RLR M3 GTR

2009-08-21T09:46:00.004-05:00

Tom Milner Jr. talks through his experiences as a RLR M3 GTR pilot with some great in car footage. It's my understanding that the M3 GTR will also be included in the standard Need for Speed Shift game, which looks like another reason to stay home from work for a month. A little jumbled but I think that some of the shots make up for it. Enjoy!

Car Porn Deluxe- " Does It get any Better Edition" - New 911 GT3RS

2009-08-19T08:47:00.003-05:00

I'm not sure how this car could get any better. Now I need to find a way to come up with $132,800. Details any story after the video. Enjoy

(VIA Motortrend and Porsche)

Based on the previous iteration, the new GT3 RS utilizes the same core flat-six engine as the previous version, but its been bored out from 3.6L to 3.8L - enough to provide an extra 15 horsepower over the standard 911 GT3, bringing output totals to a full 450 naturally-aspirated ponies. A revised, short-throw, close-ratio six-speed gearbox has been thrown in the package to produce a vehicle that revs faster and produces more dynamic acceleration traits - and higher top speed -- than the version that goes before.

But this being Porsche, the powertrain is only half the story. The newest GT3 RS has also been sharpened underneath, resulting in a wider track both front and aft, and corresponding wider bodywork. New wheels measure a full 9-in. wide up front and 12-in. wide at rear, wrapped in 245/35 ZR 19 rubber and 325/30 ZR 19 respectively. Porsche Active Drivetrain Mounts (PADM) are featured as standard, changing in stiffness and damping according to road surface and driving behavior - this resulting in reduced body roll and dive.

Even the details have been fine-tuned, with the new 911 GT3 RS featuring a larger carbon fiber rear wing and lower ride height than previous versions, along with an optional lithium-ion battery that saves weight over the conventionally lead-based version by over 22 lbs. The distinctive dual exhaust tips of the 911 GT3 RS remain a trademark feature of the new car, and as before the entire exhaust system is constructed of lightweight titanium.

The new Porsche 911 GT3 RS is slated to hit U.S. showrooms next year after a Frankfurt debut. Base price will be $132,800 exluding delivery charges.

the essence of Ranting - "BMW, The Ultimate SUV's"

2009-08-15T09:00:00.001-05:00

Okay, to say that I'm more than a little bitter over BMW's recent decision to pull the plug on their Formula One effort, close-down Formula BMW America, and continue to build 6000 lbs sport utes with 500 + hp, that can only be driven con brio with the stability control on has taken me over the edge. What ever happened to the Ultimate Driving Machine. What ever happened to BMW poking fun at other companies for pulling this crap?

So as it stands today, here is my prediction, BMW will be out of ALMS by 2011 and likely out of motor racing by 2015.

There is a slight chance that they may end up in, (wait for it) NASCAR in 2012, but I think that they are concerned with Toyota's spend versus results. Maybe the X5 can run in the Craftsman Truck series.

Also Buick is walking away from its relationship with the PGA, and except for the dedicated club racers and HPDE participants, where do you see the majority of BMW today? At the track or parked at the clubhouse?

I hope I am reading this wrong, only time will tell. Agree?