Durabak-18 on 2040-parts.com

New Mercedes SLK caught testing

The next generation (2012) Mercedes SLK caught testing at the Nurburgring The next generation SLK looks to be more aggressive in stance, with a nose that takes on the family theme from the new Mercedes E-Class. It seems likely that the new SLK will come with a new set of engines, with more than a passing nod to eco-concerns. In will come a 1.6 litre, four-pot supercharged engine that will pick up the mantle from the old 1.8 litre Kompressor engine – same power – or more – with lower emissions and better economy.

RCA students redesign classic cars for Salon Privé

Eleven postgraduates from the Royal College of Art's Vehicle Design program have redesigned and modernized past Concours-winning cars for the ‘Concours of the Future' design exhibition at this year's Salon Privé in London. Concours of the Future, a first for the Salon Privé, will be showcased on 4 July before being judged the next day by a panel chaired by automotive designer and RCA visiting professor Peter Stevens. The judging panel is made up of Dale Harrow, head of the RCA Vehicle Design program and some of the biggest names in car design: Giles Taylor, director of design at Rolls-Royce; Peter Schreyer, chief design officer at Hyundai and Kia and Peter Horbury, vice president – design at Geely.

Ferrari 458 Speciale A (that’s ‘A’ for Aperta) revealed

The Ferrari 458 Special A – revealed ahead of its Paris debut The Ferrari 458 Speciale A (the ‘A’ stands for Aperta – Italian for open) has been revealed this afternoon – ahead of its Paris Motor Show debut next week – as the most powerful open-top Ferrari ever, promising 0-62mph in just 3.0 seconds. Just 499 will be built. And if you want to invest money in a new Ferrari, the 458 Speciale A will be a good shout; with just 499 being built (just like LaFerrari) it’s almost certain these rare 458s will appreciate in the coming years – just like the 599 Aperta has (although there were even fewer of those).