1973 74 Corvette Original Automatic Shifter Plate on 2040-parts.com

Hyundai reveals updated 2011 Genesis coupe range

After holding its own against more established rear-wheel-drive coupe offerings such as the Ford Mustang and the Nissan Z, Hyundai is updating its Genesis coupe for the 2011 model year. Highlighting the changes is the addition of a new 3.8 R-Spec equipment package, which previously was only available on the turbocharged four-cylinder model. Included in the R-spec package are 19-inch wheels with Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires, Brembo brakes, a stiffened suspension, a limited-slip differential and adjustable front camber bolts.

Barrett-Jackson to auction commemorative Z06 Corvette for museum fundraiser

In honor of the Chevrolet Corvette's inaugural appearance and victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans some 50 years ago, Chevrolet built a special 2011 Corvette Z06 wearing the same paint scheme--Arctic White paint, blue stripes and the number "3"--to pay tribute to the class-winning 1960 Cunningham Corvette. Chevrolet and the General Motors Design Center built and added several special one-off features for this car, which has vehicle identification number 001: -- Competition Gray headlamps, mirrors and wheels -- Special 50th-anniversary of Le Mans racing logos -- Blue brake calipers -- Z07 performance package with Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes -- 19-inch front/20-inch rear 20-spoke Competition Gray wheels with Michelin PS2 tires -- Magnetic Selective Ride Control -- Black carbon-fiber front splitter and rockers -- ZR1-style rear spoiler -- Ebony leather-wrapped interior with Competition Gray trim -- Carbon-fiber fenders and floor panels Corvette Racing fans will recognize the special-edition Z06 as a participant in the Legends of Le Mans event at Laguna Seca in 2010. Driven by Corvette Racing legend Ron Fellows, the Z06 was accompanied by the 1960 Cunningham, the 1967 Bondurant/Guldstrand, the 1973 BF Goodrich and the C6.R GT2 Corvettes for a parade lap on the track.

Mercury dies off, Lincoln to benefit

Ford's brand portfolio is set to get smaller by the end of the year. Following the sale of Aston Martin, Land Rover, Jaguar and most recently Volvo (to Chinese automaker Geely), the Blue Oval has now announced the demise of its 'middle of the range' Mercury brand, with production of the last vehicles set to cease at the end of 2010. In a statement released to media, Ford announced that the shuttering of the 71-year old Mercury brand was in the interest of focusing on Lincoln, the automaker's only remaining premium brand.