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

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.

De Tomaso sold by Rossignolo

De Tomaso sold to unknown investors De Tomaso – the ill-fated Italian supercar maker – has been sold by Gian Mario Rossignolo after a financially fraught revival attempt. De Tomaso seems fated to lurch from one financial crisis to another – as it has throughout its history – with the latest efforts by former Fiat executive Gian Mario Rossignolo to revive the marque floundering for investment. And it looks like Rossignolo has given up the fight and sold out to unnamed investors.

1960s supercars

By Tim Pollard and Ben Oliver 10 July 2008 16:00 Supercars in the Sixties The swinging ’60s spawned many joyous things – and its spirit of liberalisation applied equally to the motor car. So we shouldn’t be surprised that it was the fun-filled decade that begat the supercar. The Lamborghini Miura was arguably first – and CAR’s own wizard of words, LJK Setright, penned the phrase that defined the breed: he called it the supercar.