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

WINTER BREAKDOWN EXPENSE FOR USED CAR OWNERS

SOME VEHICLE components are nearly three times as likely to fail during the winter months as in the summer leading to potentially expensive repairs for the owners of older vehicles, according to Warranty Direct. The specialist insurer and warranty provider analysed 50,000 live automotive policies and found that ignition coils are 283 per cent more likely to fail between December and February than between June and August. Fuel injection pumps, thermostats and a number of electrical components are also more likely to suffer in the cold leading to an average winter repair bill of £408.60, the company has warned.

Lexus readies hybrid LS with V12 grunt, V6 economy

By Phil McNamara Motor Industry 03 June 2007 02:34 Lexus claims its new LS600h hybrid will return 29.7mpg – despite having 444bhp on tap. The company has announced new details of its flagship hybrid, which gets a European premiere at September's Paris motor show. Lexus claims that the petrol/electric hybrid drivetrain offers the performance of a V12, but with V6 fuel economy and emissions.

Audi R8 spyder appears headed for Frankfurt show

The much-anticipated Audi R8 spyder likely will make its world debut in production guise at the Frankfurt motor show in September. The drop-top version of the head-turning German supercar would share mechanicals with the coupe, which offers a V8 making 420 hp and a V10 with 525 hp. The R8 has a mid-engine layout and channels power to the ground with all-wheel drive.