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

Autoweek archives: Porsche, same as it ever was? Not quite

In July 1997, Autoweek introduced its readers to the next-generation Porsche 911, the Type 996. Hot off the Frankfurt motor show release of the redesigned Type 991 2012 Porsche 911, we thought it might be fun to look at how much the iconic German sports car has changed since then. While it looks like not much has changed, the Type 991 is a brand-new car.

VW Concept BlueSport at Detroit auto show 2009

By Tim Pollard Motor Shows 12 January 2009 05:29 CAR's been tipping it for ages, but today we finally saw the first proof of VW's ambitions to build a Lotus Elise-style back-to-basics roadster. The Concept BlueSport is a mid-engined sports car with the emphasis firmly on the lack of frills – to the benefit of performance, handling and the car's environmental credentials. The BlueSport is compact at just 3999mm long and that mid-mounted engine keeps weight distribution even-Stevens at 45:55.

Friday in Le Mans: Prerace parade and car show thrills crowds

The 24 Hours of Le Mans doesn't start until Saturday at 3 p.m. French time, but as anyone here will tell you, the festivities began much earlier in the week. On Friday, I had the opportunity to visit the Driver's Parade and car show in downtown Le Mans, a five-hour festival that brings out what appeared to be half the town, plus many race enthusiasts from around the globe.