Arias Pistons 12.5:1 Compression 82mm Bore Honda B-series on 2040-parts.com

RCA students to reinterpret classic cars for Salon Privé

Salon Privé is the rather pretentious-sounding UK concours d'elégance that models itself on the likes of Pebble Beach and Villa d'Este. This year the event has something that really piques our interest – a design contest, judged by some of the world's top designers. Ten Students from the nearby Royal College of Art have been tasked with reinterpreting a previous cars entered into the show for a competition named Concours of the Future.

Videos: Volkswagen's exterior and interior designers highlight the Up's design elements

We've enjoyed the design of Volkswagen's new Up since we first saw the vehicle in concept form at the 2007 Frankfurt motor show. Devoid of any extraneous detailing, the simple, product design aesthetic is pared back to represent the crux of VW's design philosophy: pure, simple and solid.  The result is a harmonious design that stands out from the pack, with simple surfacing and subtle detailing; the Up's design is pure and minimalistic, which serves to exude quality in the product. Inside, the vehicle is brimming with space-saving design details.  From an IP devoid of central air vents to a thin headrest that visually extends the height of the interior, the Up is a success story in space efficiency, but it is also finished to a high level using quality materials.

McLaren MP4-12C GT3 confirmed

McLaren MP4-12C GT3 - going racing in 2012 We have been expecting McLaren to confirm that they are going racing with the McLaren MP4-12C. It would be unthinkable for McLaren not to take their new baby to the track but we’d had no confirmation. We had seen the McLaren MP4-12C GT3 out testing last month so we knew an announcement was likely to be imminent, and so it is.