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

Volvo V40 Cross Country & V40 R-Design: Paris 2012

Volvo has revealed the V40 Cross Country and V40 R-Design at the 2012 Paris Motor Show, and both are convincing. The sporty take on the new V40 is the V40 R-design, a cosmetic update for the already good-looking V40 that manages to bolt on go-faster bits without wrecking the good lines of the normal V40. We would like to have seen the Volvo V40 R-Design get the sports suspension as standard, but Volvo obviously feel that most R-Design buyers want the looks rather than the more dynamic ride the sports suspension offers, so it stays as an option. And as the R-Design option is available across the new V40 range – from the D2 to the T4 – it’s probably the right decision.

Dodge Avenger replacement could go rear-wheel drive

Chrysler is pondering a shakeup for its midsize-sedan lineup. The Dodge Avenger replacement would shift to rear-wheel drive, and the next Chrysler Sebring would be based on a Fiat platform in an effort to differentiate two cars that currently share the same underpinnings, Automotive News reports. The Avenger replacement could be based on a modified Challenger platform, which itself is a modified version of the Charger and Chrysler 300 platform.

German courts rule on status of rare Mercedes-Benz 500K roadster

The saga of a rare 1935 Mercedes-Benz 500K roadster has taken yet another intriguing turn. German courts have ruled that the vehicle is the rightful property of German industrialist Hans Prym's grandchildren because it was illegally seized from Prym in 1945. Frans van Haren can't be too happy with the ruling.