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

Automotive Archaeology: Chicago collector creates gems from the junkyard

Chicago-area native Joe Bortz began collecting cars in 1962 with no idea that he'd become renowned for having possibly the world's best collection of significant concept cars. More than 40 years later, that's an honor Bortz wears with pride, but it speaks to only a part of his collection of machinery. Bortz's car-collecting passion began with a 1928 Chevrolet Landau coupe.

Volkswagen prices 2014 Passat 1.8T

Volkswagen is debuting a new engine in its U.S. lineup, a 1.8-liter four-cylinder turbocharged and direct-injected TSI engine known internally as EA888, and the first car to receive it will be the 2014 Volkswagen Passat. The Passat will stay the same on the outside for the 2014 model year, but the new 1.8-liter engine promises to deliver as much power as the outgoing 2.5-liter engine it is replacing, 170 hp, while gaining seven more lb-ft of torque for a total of 184 lb-ft.

Cadillac Ciel concept

The Cadillac Ciel concept, a four-seat convertible, has just been revealed at the 2011 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. "The Ciel is about the romance of the drive," says Clay Dean, global design director of Cadillac. "It emulates the great touring cars seen on the greens at Pebble Beach, but with a modern flair that projects Cadillac's vision for the future." Interior design manager Gael Buzyn says, "Simplicity and lightness ensure nothing distracts from the open driving experience, while the color and materials lend the feeling that the vehicle's environment blends with the surroundings." The four-door Cadillac Ciel concept was developed with a long, low proportion, reminiscent of classic automobiles, while the interior features Italian olive wood, machined aluminum and hand-tipped leather.