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

Design Contest: Michelin Challenge Design announces 2008 theme and call for entries

Michelin Challenge Design, one of the world's fastest growing transportation design programs, has announced it will continue its focus on safety in 2008 under the central theme of 'Safety over Size.' The 2008 theme was announced at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, where the Michelin Challenge Design exhibit showcased works from vehicle manufacturers, students, as well as the first full-size concept to be submitted by an independent entrant. Rising energy costs, urban congestion and environmental concerns are all contributing to an increased interest in smaller vehicles, but consumers are often hesitant to consider smaller vehicles due to safety concerns that are both real and perceived. Participating designers are encouraged to 'throw away the book' and to present ideas that enhance the real and perceived safety and security of smaller vehicles through design innovations in areas such as accident avoidance, enhanced driver controls, survivability and visibility.

Mini Paceman breaks cover before Paris debut

The Mini Paceman will become the seventh vehicle in Mini's lineup when it debuts at the Paris auto show later this month. It rides on the same platform as the Mini Countryman, but has a roof that slopes to the rear like the Range Rover Evoque. As is the case with the rest of the Mini lineup, a standard model and an up-powered S version will be offered.

Watch the Audi Sport Quattro tear up the back roads

Audi revealed its 700-hp Sport Quattro concept at the Frankfurt motor show in September; the car pays homage to the classic rallying Sport Quattro from the 1980s. On Monday, the automaker uploaded a video of the upcoming vehicle to celebrate 100,000 Facebook likes on its German social-networking page. The video shows the Quattro whipping and gripping through a forest/mountain stage.