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

Acura retools lineup to put the focus on mpg

Honda will overhaul and reposition its Acura lineup over the next 18 months and abandon its long pursuit of top-tier luxury-car status for the brand. After years of trying to propel Acura into the front ranks with Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Lexus, Honda says it will settle for offering mid-level premium vehicles that favor fuel economy over performance. With one exception: At the Detroit auto show in January, Honda will bring back the Ferrari-fighting Acura NSX--a new version of the mid-engine supercar that disappeared in 2005 after a 15-year run.

Opel/Vauxhall teases Cascada mid-size convertible

Opel/Vauxhall has given us a sneak peek of its new mid-size convertible, the Cascanda, which effectively replaces the Astra Twin Top. The Cascanda features a full-size fabric roof that can be opened or closed with one button up to speeds of 30mph and is the latest model to shun a folding hardtop in favor of the lighter and more practical soft option. The company claims this is its first D-segment cabrio for more than 70 years but, unlike them, we haven't forgotten the Cavialier Convertible of the 1980s (see pic).

Aston unveils new Vantage racer

By Digby Fullam First Official Pictures 17 November 2008 14:15 Aston Martin’s Vantage N24 has given way to this new GT4 – a race-spec Vantage aimed at pro racers and track day enthusiasts alike. The arrival of the GT4 leaves Aston in the unique position of being the only manufacturer producing cars in each GT class. The new car has been six months in development, with Aston hopeful that it will build on the success of the N24, winner of this year’s Nurburgring 24 Hours.