The new exhibition center covers an area of 900 square meters and will be open to the public for three years. Its aim is to introduce the Chinese to Ferrari and allow them to experience the history, cars, technologies, and passion of the Prancing Horse first-hand, thereby further consolidating the already strong links between the Italian marque and this nation.

The models displayed are the 348 TS as the first Ferrari to enter the Chinese mainland market, a 275 GTB4, a 365 GTB4 Daytona, the 750 Monza sports prototype, and the FF.

“For millions of people around the world, Ferrari represents the pinnacle of Italian culture,” declared Piero Ferrari. “It is a symbol of passion, success and the constant pursuit of excellence. It has always been our wish to share Ferrari’s unique history and culture with the people of China who have shown great affection for the Prancing Horse and with whom we share core values such as respect for tradition and a tenacious spirit of innovation.”

gallery: 2012 Ferrari FF

Article source: http://www.topspeed.com/cars/car-news/ferrari-myth-exhibition-opens-at-shanghai-expo-park-ar129774.html

Nissan has released a passel of official photosd of the 2013 Nissan Altima, the sedan it “would like to make #1 if customers agree.” While the new styling might take getting used to, the other changes are all welcomed: it’s lighter, has a revised transmission, will return 38 miles per gallon if equipped with the four-cylinder, and starts at $21,500 before the $760 destination charge.

Now that the Altima and Toyota Camry are known quantities, the pending reveal of the Honda Accord will fill out the field and then we’ll have a better idea of the fight to come. Until then, have a closer look at the new Altima in the photo gallery above.

Related Gallery2013 Nissan Altima

Article source: http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/19/new-pics-show-2013-nissan-altima-from-all-the-angles/

With 750 HP under its hood, the Ferrari 599XX Evolution is definitely a car that is noticed on the track. And if you’ve never heard it, here’s your chance to get a peek at what it can do. as well as hear the growl snaking its way out of the exhaust. This video was recently shot at the Monza racetrack and features the Ferrari 599XX EVO Evolution in action with start up, loud accelerations, fast fly bys, and amazing downshifts on the track!

As a reminder, the 599XX Evo is powered by a 6.3L V12 engine with an output of 750 HP at 7000 rpm and 516 lb-ft of torque. It features improved chassis and an amazing exterior package to improve the car’s aerodynamics.

Expect to see more videos like this in the future because the 599XX Evo will be used for the 2012-2013 racing season!

gallery: 2012 Ferrari 599XX Evolution

Article source: http://www.topspeed.com/cars/car-news/video-ferrari-599xx-evolution-at-monza-ar129323.html

It takes a fast and agile car to keep pace with MotoGP racing bikes. Fortunately the BMW M division is up to the task, providing safety cars (or what we’d call pace cars on this side of the Atlantic) to the race organizers of the top-level motorcycle racing series.

The most recent vehicles to perform the duties have been the 1 Series M Coupe and the X6 M crossover, but now BMW is introducing a the new M6 coupe to the mix. It’ll debut in safety car guise as pictured above at the Nürburgring this weekend.

While it’s unclear whether any modifications have been made to the 552-horsepower twin-turbo V8, the M6 MotoGP safety car has been upgraded with new spoilers front and rear, special lighting equipment and BMW’s traditional blue, blue and red striping on a white body. And if we were betting men, we’d put our money on some upgrades to the brakes, suspension and tires, too.

Article source: http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/19/bmw-rolls-out-new-m6-safety-car-for-motogp/

ERLANGER, Ky. (May 17, 2012) — Toyota announced today it will expand its Huntsville, Ala. engine facility to increase North American production of V6 engines. The approximately $80 million investment will bring total plant investment to more than $700 million. Approximately 125 new jobs will be created, increasing employment nearly 10 percent to 1,150.

The expansion will allow Toyota Motor Manufacturing Alabama, Inc. (TMMAL) to build an additional 216,000 engines each year, boosting total V6 annual capacity to 362,000. A new 300,000 sq. ft. building will be constructed. The increased production will begin in March 2014.

TMMAL currently assembles 4-cylinder, V6 and V8 engines for eight of 12 Toyota North American built vehicles. TMMAL is the only Toyota plant globally to produce these three types of engines in one facility.

This investment will increase engine production at the Huntsville plant to more than 700,000 annually, and will increase total Toyota engine production in the U.S. to more than 1.4 million per year. Toyota also builds engines in Kentucky and West Virginia.

“We are proud to announce our fourth expansion, only a few months after celebrating 10 years of success in Huntsville and Madison County,” said Jim Bolte, President of TMMAL. “Today wouldn’t be possible without continued commitment from our outstanding team members and support from our community partners.”

“Toyota Motor Manufacturing Alabama has been a dedicated corporate citizen in Alabama for more than ten years, and today’s announcement is an exciting new chapter for this company and this community. Toyota’s success in Alabama is a testament to the hard-working men and women of the production and leadership teams who have dedicated themselves to producing quality products,” said Governor Robert Bentley. “This expansion is also a testament to the business climate we’ve worked hard to create in Alabama – a climate in which companies are encouraged to expand, innovate, and create new jobs. We thank Toyota for the company’s continued confidence in Alabama and Huntsville, and we look forward to a continued long-term relationship.”

Today’s announcement is the latest in a string of Toyota production increase announcements since February including Toyota plants in Indiana, West Virginia, Canada and Kentucky. Cumulative investment total is approximately $645 million and more than 1,100 jobs are being added.

“This V6 line addition continues to reflect our growing optimism for an improving North American market, and we continue to study more localization in North America,” said Steve St. Angelo, Executive Vice President of Toyota Motor Engineering Manufacturing North America, Inc.

Article source: http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/19/toyota-boosting-v6-production-in-alabama-adding-125-jobs/

Restraint is not necessarily one of the virtues that edo competition claims for itself. That quickly becomes clear when looking at this version of the current generation AMG C-Class.

Designed specifically for the high-revving engine in the Mercedes C 63 AMG, edo competition is offering a power kit that’s in a class of its own. It consists of a new high-performance exhaust system, exhaust headers, high-flow catalytic converters, new air filters, revised engine electronics and a removal of the top speed governor. The result is an enormous power increase from the stock output of 457 horsepower / 336 kW to 600 horsepower / 441 kW. At the same time the torque output growns from 600 Nm (442 lb-ft) to 680 Nm (501 lb-ft). As will all engine modications done by edo competition, a dynamometer is used to carry out the tuning work, and the actual output is documented accurately.

An impressive and awe-inspiring sounndtrack is provided by the new exhaust with butterfly valves. The high-performance exhaust system features a programmable electronic controller that monitors the level of back pressure and opens the integrated 70 mm butterfly valves when a certain threshold is exceeded. The exhaust is made entirely from stainless steel and the chromed exhaust tips that mimic the factory pieces add to the car’s expressive styling.

The extreme speeds that the edo C 63 AMG T-Model is capable of require specific modifications to its wheels. 19-inch Michelin high-performance tires allow for a top speed exceeding 340 km/h (211 mph). The 235/35 ZR 19 front tires are mounted on 8.5Jx19 multi-piece wheels, while 265/30 ZR 19 tires on 9.5Jx19 multi-piece wheels are used on the rear axle.

Naturally, the interior wasn’t neglected as it makes up a large part of the car’s visual appeal. Throughout the cabin, carbon fiber applications have been used to enhance its esthetic qualities.

On customer request the interior can be individualized using leather, cloth, fine woods or lacquer, high-quality metal applications or carbon fiber. Steering wheels, dashboards, center consoles, pedals, seats or even the whole interior can be customized, and the possibilities are virtually limitless.

All modifications are carried out exclusively at edo competition Motorsport GmbH in Ahlen.

Contact: edo competition Motorsport GmbH; Ruth Holtbuer; Zeche Westfalen 1; 59229 Ahlen Phone: +49-2382/9698 – 182; Fax +49-2382/940568; E-Mail: r.holtbuer@edo-competition.de

Article source: http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/19/edo-competition-squeezes-600-horsepower-into-the-mercedes-benz-c/

Volkswagen is unquestionably one of the world’s biggest companies with it owning a fairly large selection of other brands including Bugatti, Bentley, Seat, and even Lamborghini, so it obviously takes some creativity to get an upper hand over the competition. Fiat definitely did just that the other day, when they took the opportunity to take advantage of one of the numerous Google Street View vans driving across the globe, and capture something completely unique.

Both Volkswagen and Fiat have headquarters in Sweden and when workers at the Fiat HQ noticed the Google Street View car driving past, they rushed over to their competitor’s major branch in a brand new Fiat 500, 45 minutes away to capture the perfectly executed images you see in the gallery below.

The bright red Fiat 500 can be seen following the Street View car from a distance just seconds away from Volkswagen headquarters before speeding up Volkswagen’s driveway, pulling up in directly below the Volkswagen sign just in time for the images to be captured and then uploaded to Google Street View for the world to see.

And all of this happened in just a matter a seconds without VW having any idea about the stunt, meaning the German marque will have to accept having one of its competitors cars parked outside its showroom for at least a year.

Don’t however, expect VW to take this lightly. We suspect they’re already planning an ingenious way to get back at Fiat.

Article source: http://www.topspeed.com/cars/car-news/genius-fiat-pranks-volkswagen-on-google-street-view-for-the-world-to-see-ar129789.html

Stuttgart/Ötigheim – The range of new-generation Fuso Canter trucks made its debut following extensive revision of the vehicle’s technology and styling. The range of conventionally rear-wheel-drive light-duty trucks with their high payload is about to get a new variant featuring selectable all-wheel drive.Its off-road capabilities make the Fuso Canter 4×4 the ideal choice for all applications where operation on unsurfaced roads is required, for example on construction sites, in the energy supply sector and in service with the fire brigade. For municipal authorities, it lends itself to use as a winter service vehicle with snowplough and salt spreader. Its width of a mere two metres means that it can also negotiate narrow openings with ease. The Canter 4×4 demonstrates its efficiency well on the construction site, for example, as its all-wheel drive can be engaged to allow it to cope with the loose surfaces.

Its high payload capacity and optionally available start/stop function also make the Canter 4×4 an efficient workhorse.The new Canter model shares the same practical strengths as its predecessors: good manoeuvrability (the 3415 mm wheelbase version has a turning circle of 13.5 m), a space-saving cab-over-engine layout, a robust construction, an ergonomically located shift lever in the instrument panel, enhanced safety thanks to a strong cab design and low brake wear as a result of the standard exhaust brake.

The Canter 4×4, model designation 6C18, will be offered with a permissible gross vehicle weight of 6.5 tonnes, a two-metre wide comfort cab and a power output of 129 kW (175 hp). The all-wheel drive can be selected and deselected during a journey, thereby ensuring fuel-efficient operation. A differential lock for the rear axle is fitted as standard.

Customers will be able to choose from comfortable single cabs or crewcabs
(3 and 7 seats respectively) with wheelbases of 3415 mm and 3865 mm. Payload capacity ranges from 3500 kg to 3735 kg. The vehicle’s approach and departure angles are 35 degrees and 25 degrees respectively (as opposed to 18 degrees and 11 degrees for the Canter 4×2).

Cab: powerful design with long-term corrosion protection
Like the conventional Canter, the new 4×4 model also comes with a completely re-designed cab. One distinctive feature of the new Fuso Canter 4×4 is its dynamic front-end styling which emphasises the vehicle’s off-road functionality and capabilities. The V-shaped radiator grille, with its strong lines and prominent logo, are particularly eye-catching. The dynamic V motif continues above the large headlamps right to the door beading. The new Canter therefore fits perfectly into the brand’s current styling concept.

The painted area has been extended as far as the lower edge of the windscreen to emphasise the Canter’s sturdy, robust nature. The three-part steel bumper is kitted out with practical anthracite-coloured plastic corner sections. Daytime running lamps have been integrated into the fog lamp housings. Fog lamps and daytime running lamps come as standard on all models.

First introduced for the 4×2 model, the new cataphoretic dip priming (CDP) and the powder-coated frame provide optimum long-term corrosion protection. Customers can choose from around 100 colours for the cab, including several metallic and pearl paint finishes; they can also opt for a custom paint colour, all of which ensures that the new Canter 4×4 is distinctively individual right from the moment it leaves the factory.

Cockpit: comfortable and functional
The functional cab-over-engine concept of the new Fuso Canter 4×4 features a two-colour, harmoniously designed cockpit with high-quality materials that are pleasant to the touch. Both driver and co-driver benefit from even better access from left to right through the cab.

Round vents surround the instrument panel. The circular dials are easy to read. The economical range on the rev counter is clearly marked. The multifunction display between the instruments provides information such as time and distance travelled, it also includes a trip computer to calculate fuel consumption, a display which shows the status of the particulate filter and a warning lamp for the fuel level. The operating buttons are arranged within easy reach around the steering wheel.

The storage concept focuses fully on the needs of the driver and co-driver. The centre console contains two DIN slots, a storage compartment with flap and a pull-out drinks holder for two containers. On the co-driver’s side, items can be stored in an open stowage tray and a lockable glove compartment. A stowage facility for documents and a compartment for a mobile phone or small items underline the practical design and layout of the dashboard. Roof stowage boxes, door storage bins and stowage facilities behind and between the seats round off the stowage space options.

Seats: lumbar supports and integral head restraints
Both the driver’s and co-driver’s seats feature integral head restraints. The driver’s seat is equipped with an adjustable lumbar support as standard. A mechanically sprung comfort seat with armrest is available as an option. On the standard-fitted co-driver’s double bench seat, a special feature of the left-hand seat (when viewed in the direction of travel) is the frame-type head restraint for better rearward visibility. The same head restraint design is used for the seats of the rear bench seat on the new Canter 4×4 with crewcab. Even the occupant of the centre seat is assured a comfortable seating position since the centre seat provides the same amount of legroom as the outer co-driver’s seat.

Automated climate control and more effective heating
The heating and air conditioning systems in the new Canter 4×4 are also worthy of mention. The key features include a high airflow rate in the footwell and head areas and an efficient heat exchanger. The powerful air conditioning system is an attractive feature. A fully automatic system is available as an alternative to the manually controlled air conditioning unit.

State-of-the-art Euro V engine with very wide effective engine speed range
The new Fuso Canter 4×4 is powered by a four-cylinder turbo diesel engine with Euro V and EEV certification. Only the most powerful version of this 3-litre engine – developing 129 kW (175 hp) at 3500 rev/min – is installed on the all-wheel drive model. It boasts a maximum full-load torque of 430 Newton metres which is available constantly from 1600 to 2900 rev/min.

The modern, long-stroke engine (in-house designation 4P10) brims with the latest technology: namely two robust chain-driven overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, an exhaust gas turbocharger with variable turbine geometry, a common rail injection system and piezo injectors for precise fuel metering.

Low fuel consumption – high cost-effectiveness
The increased payload and significantly reduced maintenance costs have both helped to improve cost-effectiveness. The 40,000 km maintenance interval has also resulted in a marked reduction in maintenance costs and further underlines the excellent cost-effectiveness of the Fuso Canter 4×4. To reduce diesel consumption even further, the new Canter 4×4 is also available on request with a start/stop function.

Exhaust gas aftertreatment: SCR plus exhaust gas recirculation plus particulate filter
The new Canter 4×4 is equipped with the most powerful version of the 3.0 litre engine, capable of delivering a power output of 175 hp. This engine features SCR technology with AdBlue injection, a well-proven technology used on Daimler Trucks. This promising combination, which is also used in heavy-duty commercial vehicles, delivers more power for even less fuel. The AdBlue tank in the Canter is located on the left-hand side, immediately adjacent to the fuel tank and holds 12 litres. Thanks to the low AdBlue consumption, this is sufficient for a range of around 8000 km.

In addition to SCR exhaust aftertreatment technology, a combination of exhaust gas recirculation and fully automatic particulate filter regeneration ensures optimum emissions performance. If the vehicle is being used mainly for very short trips, manual regeneration of the particulate filter may be necessary owing to the low engine temperatures. A status indicator in the multifunction display tells the driver whether manual regeneration is required. Manual regeneration can be activated by a switch.

Frame emphasises the body-friendly concept
The uniform hole pattern of the high-payload frame on the Canter 4×4 makes life much easier for bodybuilders. All chassis are available on request with body consoles to facilitate body assembly. Drilling the ladder-type frame is no longer required. To save space, the coolant expansion tank is located under the cab, enabling the body to be moved closer to the rear wall of the cab.

The new Canter 4×4 can be factory fitted with two different power take-off variants, with or without flange. Their output is 31 kW. The Canter is also available ex-works with an external power take-off rpm controller which can be positioned where required. The interface for the controller is located on the rear of the cab.

As an option, Fuso can deliver the new Canter 4×4 equipped with a voltage converter. This ensures that the 12 V vehicle electrical system can be connected to a 24 V interface such as those frequently used by bodybuilders on medium-size truck bodies. To guarantee the power supply, Fuso can also deliver the new Canter with various alternators adapted to the intended use.

Traditional strengths of the Canter also feature on the 4×4
The Canter 4×4 features the same traditional strengths as the Canter 4×2, namely excellent manoeuvrability, a space-saving cab-over-engine design, good visibility thanks to low windows and a short front overhang, a robust construction, a compact joystick shift lever on the dashboard, straightforward maintenance thanks to a tilting cab which provides easy access to the main assemblies, enhanced safety and reduced wear thanks to the standard-fitted exhaust brake.

Safety is paramount
Safety is also of paramount importance on the new Canter 4×4. The doors feature side-impact protection as standard. Airbags are available as optional equipment for driver and co-driver. Like the conventional model, the new Canter 4×4 also features the Fuso RISE passive safety system as well as Brake Override technology which give general priority to the brake signal if the brake and accelerator pedals are inadvertently depressed simultaneously.

Like all Fuso Canter models, the new all-wheel drive variant is also equipped as standard with an exhaust brake. Operated from a steering-column switch and generating up to 50 kW of braking power, the exhaust brake increases safety by protecting the service brake and at the same time reduces costs by prolonging the service life of the brake pads.

Article source: http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/19/new-fuso-canter-can-canter-in-selectable-4x4-mode/

It goes without saying that in its very short life, the Bentley EXP 9 F has already faced its fair share of criticism, largely revolving around its controversial styling. However, Bentley is not going to let the haters get in the way of its ambitious plans for the new SUV and if a report by CAR turns out to be correct, the British marque may enter next year’s Dakar Rally to help drum up support for the SUV and preview its off-road capabilities.

Rather than developing a handful of custom racers from scratch, Bentley is said to be considering purchasing VW Touareg’s from the various private teams which race the cars in the Dakar Rally and converting them into off-road machines which will resemble the concept version of the EXP 9 F, even if they only share minimal components.

Despite a company spokeswoman quickly confirming that no decisions have been made in regards to this possible entry into the world’s most grueling rally event, we won’t let that stop us from reporting on what could be an extraordinary racer if Bentley borrows enough components from the VW Touareg racers. VW’s entry actually won the event in its category in 2009, 2010, and 2011, before the factory team pulled out to instead focus on its upcoming World Rally Championship entry next WRC season.

If Bentley does decide to do what is being reported, they would strip the interior bare and simply fit it with a couple of bucket seats, while also installing the necessary fuel and water storage for the long and hot stages of the Dakar. Next, they would likely ditch the large 6.0-liter W12 engine which the top of the range EXP 9 F SUV is expected to feature and replace it with a lighter, more efficient and less powerful engine similar to 296HP units fitted to the Touareg’s.

gallery: 2012 Bentley EXP 9 F

Article source: http://www.topspeed.com/cars/car-news/bentley-reportedly-working-on-custom-exp-9-f-to-compete-at-2013-dakar-rally-ar129743.html

This GTX actually features most of its original body panels, as the only ones replaced during its frame-off restoration were the rear quarter panels. The rest of the body was carefully restored to a better-than-new condition, then it was hit with a perfect coating of primer and Chrysler Code-R Yellow paint – the original color of the car. This resulted in an absolutely perfect finish that would make the original paint job look amateurish at best.

The front end of a GTX is really the best way to tell a GTX from a plain old Belvedere, as the GTX featured a slightly modified dog bone-shaped grille – a red, white, and blue stripe was added to the center – and the GTX also received two faux hood scoops on the hood. Obviously, the hood scoops are the easiest giveaway when comparing a Belvedere to a GTX.

The front fenders are also a giveaway, as they not only feature “Belvedere” emblems, but also “GTX” emblems just below them. Obligatory chrome is present on down the side of the GTX, including around the wheel wells and down the rocker panels.

The rear quarter panel on the GTX is another clue that this is not your normal old Belvedere, but the difference is slight. This 1967 GTX, and all GTXs, features a pit stop fuel filler cap, which is one that you do not need to unscrew. You just press the fuel nozzle onto the flap and it opens with moderate pressure. The standard Belvedere has a regular old gas cap.

The last dead giveaway of a GTX is the rear light panel. The Belvedere has a plain old chrome taillight panel, whereas the GTX’s taillight panel has a solid red bar on the top and bottom of the taillight panel.

In all, this body clearly fits its nickname as the “gentleman’s muscle car,” it not only packs a muscular wallop, but it also looks pretty luxurious for a muscle car. The stellar restoration job on it definitely helps its cause too.

Interior

On the inside, the GTX continues to show off its luxurious side. It features an all-black interior with well placed chrome accents. The seats are black leather with a ladder-like design embedded in them. On the outermost sides of each front seat are chrome strips that set it all off.

The steering wheel is your typical-for-the-1960s massive wheel with a chrome center and horn ring. The outer ring of the wheel is black. Behind the steering wheel is a rectangle-shaped speedometer that pegs out at a rather frightful 150 mph.

Just like the rest of the interior, the dashboard is covered in black. There are, however, splashes of chrome to help add a little character to the GTX, including: around the glove box, on the lower edge of the dashboard, around the gauge cluster, and around the factory AM radio.

The center console is a thing of beauty on the 1967 GTX. It is trimmed front-to-back in shiny chrome and the center of it is black. The gear shifter is a rather long chrome lever that is angled rearward toward the driver to help the driver reach it more easily. Without this angled shifter, shifting this beast would be quite the challenge that even a contortionist would find difficult. Attached to the center console and angled toward the driver is a small tachometer.

The door panels feature the same black color mixed with splashes of chrome. The window crank is all chrome and there are two door-length chrome strips on the panel, one on the top and one on the bottom. Even the armrests got some chrome love, with a chrome outline and a large chrome fixture on the front of each armrest.

To remind you of what you are driving, in case the sound of that Hemi isn’t enough of a reminder, there are genuine GTX floor mats, which feature “GTX” embroidered on the front set.

Chrome is very often overdone in these classic cars, but Plymouth did a wonderful job balancing the basic black interior with chrome. All we can say is that the interior is just as stunning as the exterior, if not more stunning.

Engine and Drivetrain

Under the hood is where the GTX really separates’ itself from the regular old Belvederes. As standard equipment, the 1967 GTX comes with a respectable 375 horsepower, 480 pound-feet, 440 cubic-inch V-8 engine, which performed admirably in the GTX. What adds to the rarity of this drop-top GTX is the fact that it features the optional dual four-barrel-fed 426 cubic-inch Hemi V-8 engine, which cranks out an astonishing 425 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 490 pound-feet of torque at 4,000 rpm. The sheer size of this engine earned it the nickname “Elephant.”

The engine was meticulously restored on this GTX. Everything that an original replacement part was available on was used and where there were no original parts available, exact replicas were used. The original components include: carburetors, engine block and color, exhaust manifolds, 37-amp alternator, cooling fan, 26-inch heavy-duty radiator, fan shroud, hoses and clamps, horns, washer fluid reservoir, power steering pump, and brake booster. In the case of any classic restoration project, there were some reproduction parts used in this GTX’s engine compartment, including: drive belts, red-top battery, ignition wires and ignition coil. The exhaust is also all brand new mandrel-bent piping and replica mufflers.

The second component that makes this GTX so rare is the fact that it features a four-speed manual transmission. With this manual transmission also came a 9.75-inch ring gear in the axle, a 3.54-to-1 axle ratio, making it acceptable to drive at highway speeds; double breaker distributor, which is harder to tune but increases spark efficiency; and a free-wheeling fan, which minimizes horsepower-robbing resistance on the engine when cooling is not needed.

This engine literally looks identical to what it did when it was purchased by its original owner. The restoration company used only the highest quality replica parts and even the original parts where they could. This is without a doubt a top-10% engine bay restoration job. Bravo to these guys for not sparing a penny in this job.

The engine and drivetrain combine to push this massive muscle car to 60 mph in just 4.9 seconds. It also completes the 1/4-mile in just 13.5 seconds at 105 mph. Those are mighty impressive stats for a `60s muscle car.

Suspension and Braking

The front suspension is a torsion bar-and-shock-style suspension with ball joints to keep the tires even with the road. The rear suspension is a six leaf spring-style with shock absorbers. These are both outdated by today’s standards, but in the late-`60s, this was a top-of-the-line system. This means that even though the GTX is a rather monstrous car by today’s standards, it actually holds onto the road fairly nicely.

On the front of this GTX you have a power disc brake system, which was an option on the GTX. The rear end has mechanical 10-inch drum brakes, which came as a package with the front discs. The tires are original replica redline tires 7.75×14 Firestone Deluxe Champion tires wrapped around the original chrome Magnum 500 rims.

Pricing

RK Motors has a “Buy it Now” price of $199,900 on this 1-of-7 GTX, but that price seems about $30K too high for us. NADA places the value of a GTX convertible with a 426 Hemi and four-speed manual at about $166,000. We understand that the price is going to continue to shoot up on this car, but you cannot sell a car at its future value today, that’s just not how it all works. We would suggest calling RK Motors themselves and negotiating a better price.

You will likely not get them down to the $166,000 point, but if they will work down to $180,000, you have yourself a winner here. This car will increase to above that price within about five years.

Competition

You can compare cars like the 1967 Chevelle and 1967 Ford Torino to the regular 1967 GTX, but given the natural rarity of the convertible models with a Hemi and a four-speed, you cannot compare any available car to this particular model. Not even rare special editions can be compared, as they were rare by design, whereas this model is rare just by happenstance.

Conclusion

The GTX was a bad-ass car in its day, and to own one of the rarest GTXs ever built is even more intriguing. As we stated, the price is set way too high at this point, but with some savvy negotiation skills, this car could be yours for a fair market price. As long as you can get RK Motors to the $180,000 point, we would slap the TopSpeed seal of approval on the sale. Even at $199,000 it is an okay buy, but a little overpriced.

Press Release

RESTORED 1 OF 7 PLYMOUTH GTX HEMI 4 SPEED CONVERTIBLE
Ever have one of those moments when you find a spectacular muscle car that seems too good to be true? The ’rarest of the rare’ which has survived almost 50 years of vehicle downsizing trends, fuel thirsty gearheads and stoplight fisticuffs? Well, you don’t have to worry about getting pinched back to reality this time because this fully restored 1967 Plymouth Belvedere GTX convertible is a REAL DEAL, 426 Hemi 4-speed car! Not only is it an extremely hard to find Hemi GTX, it’s also one of only SEVEN Hemi powered 4-speed GTX convertibles to ever roll off of Ma Mopar’s assembly line. With impeccable documentation, a major feature in Muscle Car Review and a long stint as a centerpiece of well-known Michigan Mopar collector Harold Sullivan’s legendary garage, it is by far one of the nicest and most exclusive Plymouths on the planet.

According to the Chrysler Historical Services documents included with the sale, this super rare Belvedere GTX left Chrysler’s St. Louis, Missouri assembly plant in April of 1967 on its way to Hess Sales and Service in Tell City, Indiana. And, according to the owner history included with the sale, the initial owner kept the car for seven years before it began a Midwest to east coast journey that would eventually end up at RK Motors Charlotte. Clean and ready to show tomorrow, it has obviously benefitted from a very extensive frame off restoration at some point in the not too distant past; but to ensure everything is in spectacular working order, RK Motors Restoration spent 60 days fine tuning the big Hemi and getting everything into tip-top mechanical shape. In case you don’t know, RK Motor Restoration is probably the BEST place a car like this could end up because we have performed two of the most exhaustive and historically accurate ground up concours GTX restorations on two exceptionally rare 1967 Plymouth GTX HEMI cars. Our award winning, magazine featured WW1 white automatic 1967 GTX Hemi sold for $140K (http://www.rkmotorscharlotte.com/inventory/1967-Plymouth-Belvedere-GTX/132566) and our BB1 black 4-speed 1967 GTX Hemi sold for $160K just last month (http://www.rkmotorscharlotte.com/inventory/1967-Plymouth-Belvedere-GTX/132685).

Before we go any further, I’ll authenticate the car by breaking down both its fender tag and major features listed in Galen Govier’s assessment of the original broadcast sheet.

FENDER TAG:

RS – Plymouth GTX
27 – Convertible
73 – 426 dual 4-barrel 425 horsepower Hemi
3 – A833 4-speed manual with an Inland shifter
48 – 7.75×14 Red Streak tires
5 – Five tires (includes the spare)
420 – Scheduled for production on Thursday April 20th, 1967
02016 – Plymouth shipping order number
1 – Drip rail mouldings
A6 – 9.75 inch Dana 60 rear end with 3.54 gears
X8 – Sure Grip axle
TP – Premium trim grade
R6 – Vinyl bucket front seats
MX – Black interior
PR – Bright Yellow roof paint
NR – Bright Yellow body paint
T1 – Mono-tone paint style
UB – Black upper door frames
B – No buffed paint
S – No accent stripes
ABC Options:

A1 – Heavy duty 26 inch radiator
D9 – Front disc brakes
F5 – GTX package
R1 – AM radio
T7 – Console mounted tachometer
X2 – Tinted windshield
Y2 – White convertible top
abc Options:

a6 – Console
b4 – Bucket seats
g0 – Body belt mouldings
j4 – Body sill mouldings
u1 – Sold car order
BROADCAST SHEET:

Standard Equipment:

Front heater and defroster
Outside manual left-hand chrome mirror
Three spoke steering wheel with a chrome horn ring
Variable speed wipers
Maximum cooling package
37 amp alternator
Heavy duty shock absorbers
Optional Equipment:

18 – B-body 426 Hemi 4-speed stub frame
48 – 7.75×14 red sidewall tires
71 – 426 Hemi engine distributor
73 – 426 dual 4-barrel 425 horsepower Hemi
302 – White convertible top
365 – Belvedere GTX special body style
393 – 4-speed manual transmission
406 – 9.75 inch axle with 3.54 gears
408 Sure Grip
421 – Transaudio AM radio
451 – Power brakes
456 – Power steering
479 – Front disc brakes and 10 inch rear drum brakes
486 – Console
487 – Cigarette lighter
509 – Glove box lock
511 – Map and courtesy light
522 – Tinted windshield
529 – Wheel lip mouldings
540 – Belt line mouldings
544 – Body sill mouldings
564 – Bucket seats
565 – Rear armrest and ashtray
577 – Console mounted tachometer
580 – Chrome Magnum 500 wheels
626 – 70 amp heavy duty red top battery
648 – Hemi suspension
691 – Dealer stock order
When you’re restoring a car of this caliber to the level you see here, you have to start with an unmolested, clean body. That way, reproduction parts can be used only when necessary and the car retains as much of its authentic factory fresh feel as possible. During this GTXs complete frame-off restoration, new high quality quarter panels were applied and, along with the cars original body panels, sanded to a smooth, exceptional surface. Then, a thick coat of primer was sprayed on, allowed days to cure, and worked free of any defects that might prevent a better-than-showroom foundation. Once the primer was completely dry and defect free, an impressive coat of correct Chrysler code R Yellow was professionally applied and sealed with a tough, glossy clearcoat shell. The result is one arrow-straight Plymouth that has no gremlins, no thin spots and no short cuts what so ever. Fit and finish is worlds above what originally came out of Chrysler’s factory 44 years ago; and the car is an absolutely stunning show piece which catches the light perfectly in our RK Motors Charlotte photo booth.

Taking a lesson in style and brand awareness from the likes Ford, Chevrolet and Pontiac, Plymouth outfitted the mighty 1967 GTX with some hot styling cues which better differentiated it from the divisions more plebian offerings. At the front of the car, a GTX exclusive bright stainless grille holds a traditional red, white and blue centerpiece between four halogen headlights. Below that grille, a pristine body-width chrome bumper displays re-located square marker lights, and above that grille a black inlayed “Plymouth” script sprawls beneath a centered “426″ hood ornament. Behind that ornament, GTX exclusive chrome trimmed hood scoops sit in front of correct gray 3-speed windshield wipers and a correctly tinted like-new windshield. At the top of that windshield, pristine stainless trim attaches a great looking correct white top in front of a straight and flat trunk which advertises “Hemi and “GTX” to lesser stoplight warriors. At the sides of the car, pristine, dent free rocker trim runs below square chrome door handles to like-new stainless wheel well trim, and a GTX exclusive ’pit stop’ fuel filler adds a little race car flair. On the front fenders “Belvedere GTX” emblems perfectly complement subtle “Hemi” badges, and a traditional passenger’s side gold pentastar markets to any curious sidewalk dwellers. At the back of the car, GTX exclusive concave stainless trunk trim aligns perfectly with clear, factory taillights, and a second showroom fresh chrome bumper hangs above factory correct stainless exhaust tips.

Under this GTXs hood, you’ll find a 1966 model 426 cubic inch Hemi that produces 425 horsepower and 470 lb./ft. of torque. Nicknamed the ’elephant motor’ because of its large dimensions and heavy weight, Chryslers ’street’ Hemi was derived from specially developed race engines that would prove to be lethal on NASCAR tracks and NHRA drag strips across the country. At the top of the block, two correct 4-barrel carburetors breathe through a mirror-like chrome air cleaner which wears correct Mopar decals. Below those carburetors, a spotless ’Hemi Orange’ block wears correctly restored wrinkle finish valve covers and restored original factory exhaust manifolds. At the front of the motor, reproduction belts spin a correct 37 amp alternator above a correct fan and a Hemi-exclusive rebuilt power steering pump. Fire is supplied by reproduction wires, a reproduction coil and a correct distributor, and cooling is provided by a correct 26 inch heavy duty radiator with a correct Hemi-exclusive fan shroud. This is one of the finest detailed Hemis on the planet! Refocus your eyes on the rest of the engine compartment and you’ll find a correct reproduction red top battery, correct hoses and clamps, restored horns, a 1967 GTX exclusive washer fluid bottle and a factory fresh brake booster. The hood is secured with original hood latch hardware, and the entire engine bay is coated from top to bottom in the same excellent looking code R yellow as the car’s exterior panels.

Take one look under this pristine GTX and you’ll find an undercarriage that has been restored to the same exacting standards as the car’s engine bay. Factory correct overspray highlights exceptionally clean floorpans that likely haven’t seen much daylight since the cars restoration. Behind the engine, an original A833 4-speed manual transmission sends power through a pristine driveshaft to an original Dana 60 Track Pak rear end. Inside that rear end, a factory correct Sure Grip differential houses tall Hemi-exclusive 3.54 gears, and on the outside of that rear end, correct chalk marks and maintenance tags add authenticity. At the front of the car, an original K-frame engine cradle and skid plate show very few signs of impact and a correct factory sway bar adds strength to the cars rebuilt torsion bar suspension. At the back of the car, correct firm ride shocks augment correct six leaf springs in front of a new stainless fuel tank that sends fuel through new stainless fuel lines. Braking comes courtesy of heavy duty power front discs and power rear drums, and exhaust is handled by a new mandrel bent system which sends spent gases into an H-pipe crossover and two factory replacement mufflers. The big block power is put to the ground through 14 inch correct chrome Magnum 500 wheels that wear vintage looking 7.75×14 Firestone deluxe champion tires.

Open this GTX’s solid doors and you’ll find one of the coolest interiors ever bolted behind a big block Hemi engine. Billed as the ’Gentleman’s muscle car’ and finished in correct P6X trim, it brings a real sense of class to a car with a solemn and brutish nature. In front of the driver, the original rebuilt instrument cluster sits inside of a slick re-painted dash that’s capped by a supple and pliable dash pad. Below that cluster, like-new dash knobs sit beside a correct Plymouth Transaudio AM radio that’s centered within great looking stainless trim. Below the dash, an optional console holds Plymouth’s controversial, but equally cool canted tachometer in front of a correct Inland shifter and what seems like a mile finned chrome trim. Below the console, new black carpet is protected by yellow stitched GTX floor mats, and at the sides of the console, fully restored saddle-grain vinyl seats face chrome trimmed foot pedals and a sweet looking chrome ringed steering wheel that features a correct black rim. New door panels carry stainless accents and chrome door handles to a brand new black convertible cowl that sits over a fully restored trunk. Inside that trunk, a new matt divides a correct bumper jack and fifth chrome Magnum 500 wheel and spare tire. From the blinding stainless trim, to the crystal clear courtesy lamps, this is a no-excuses, no holds barred restored interior.

As you might imagine, the documentation included with this car is both significant and extensive. We have copies of the original broadcast sheet, a complete Galen Govier breakdown of that broadcast sheet, the car’s fender tag and VIN, Chrysler Historical Services paperwork, an owner history which includes the name of the car’s original owner and pictures of when the car was brand new, a copy of the Muscle Car Review in which the car was featured and a cool Hemi muscle car book.

This 1967 Plymouth GTX Hemi convertible is a text book example of a world class, no excuses muscle car. Exceptionally rare and incredibly documented, it’s a near flawless Mopar centerpiece that is the perfect investment for any collector who wants to own one of the finest classic cars on the planet.

Article source: http://www.topspeed.com/cars/plymouth/1967-plymouth-gtx-hemi-4-speed-convertible-ar129637.html