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

Lada launches new design competition

Lada and Russian social network community VKontakte have announced a competition calling for amateur designers to express their visions for future Lada models. Designs can be submitted as hand-drawn sketches or created using computer programs, and there's no limit on style, class or models. The only condition is the design has to have the brand's logo on the grille.

Cadillac sets the base price for the 2011 CTS-V wagon at $62,990

Prices for the 2011 Cadillac CTS-V wagon will begin at $62,990, including destination charges. Available with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission, the CTS-V is powered by a 6.2-liter V8 delivering 556 hp and 551 lb-ft of torque. Options include Recaro heated and ventilated driver and front-passenger seats ($3,400); 19-inch aluminum wheels ($800); midnight Sapele wood-trim package ($600), and a suede steering wheel and shifter ($300).

New Mercedes SL 400 replaces SL 350

The new Mercedes SL 400 (pictured) replaces the old SL 350 It’s a little over two years since the latest Mercedes SL arrived, and Mercedes has now decided to add a little zest to sales by dropping the old SL 350 and replacing it with a new Mercedes SL 400. The new SL 400 gets its power from the new E400 which means a twin-turbo 3.0 litre V6 with 328bhp and 354 lb/ft of torque – 26bhp and 81 lb/ft more than the old SL 350 – enough to let the SL 400 scoot to 62 mph in 5.2 seconds – 0.7s better than the 350 -= and on to a limited top speed of 155 mph. The new SL 400 has to make do with Mercedes tried and tested 7-speed auto – despite a new 9-speed now being available in Mercedes’ arsenal – which gives the SL 400 official economy of 38.6 mpg and emissions of 172g/km – not that you’ll come close in the real world.