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

Old distractions as bad as new tech

DRIVERS are as much distracted by "old technology" as by new gadgets, according to a survey. Adult passengers, twiddling with the radio and children in the car were the main distractions causing either a near-miss or an accident, the poll of more than 18,000 motorists found. These three distractions came ahead of operating the sat-nav and talking on a mobile phone as the biggest reasons for lack of driver attention.

Mercedes’ AMG division unveils new twin-turbo V8

Those obsessed with torque bemoaned Mercedes’ high-revving 6.2-litre V8 when it was launched in 2005, but just as the world has come to accept the naturally aspirated engine, the company has now unveiled a new twin-turbo 5.5-litre V8. Up to 563bhp – which is the same as the SLS AMG – and 663lb ft, which is much more than the 479lb ft the modern-day Gullwing supercar manages. The engine is an all-new 5.5-litre V8 (5461cc to be exact) with direct-injection technology, an aluminium crankcase and two turbochargers.

Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 Super Snake, for the times when 540 hp just isn’t enough

There was little doubt that Shelby would not call it a day following the completion of the 2010 Ford Shelby Mustang GT500. After all, 540 hp just might not cut it for some Shelby faithful. So to take the 2010 GT500 to the next level, Shelby revealed the Super Snake package at the Mid America Ford and Team Shelby Nationals in Tulsa, Okla.