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

End of Maybach may jump-start Mercedes S-class convertible

A couple of nondenial denials from Mercedes-Benz execs at the New York auto show this week sure made it sound like there's a convertible coming, based on the redesigned S-class due out next year. If the brand follows its usual practice, the convertible would come out a year or two after the sedan. Significantly, Mercedes-Benz showed the Ocean Drive convertible concept five years ago with a Mercedes-Benz badge, rather than Maybach.

The 1967 Shelby GT350 and GT500 are here!

The 1967 model year saw the introduction of a redesigned Ford Mustang that was slightly larger and heavier than the first pony cars. Bloat, it seems, has been around forever. But it wasn't all bad: '67 'Stangs got those crisp, fastback lines immortalized in "Bullitt" and yes, the remake of "Gone in 60 Seconds." Plus, the Mustang's increased size meant you could wedge a big-block motor under the hood, and that's exactly what Shelby American did with the GT500.

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.