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

New BMW 3-series bows, performance-oriented 335iS joins the lineup

A new performance-oriented 335iS model endowed with an M-sport styling kit and unique chassis settings heads the list of changes BMW brings to its facelifted 2011 3-series coupe and convertible. Set to slot into the lineup between an upgraded 335i and the M3 when it goes on sale in March as an exclusive for North America, the 335iS runs a tuned version of BMW's N54 engine, as found in the recently unveiled Z4 sDrive35iS, coupled to either a standard six-speed manual or an optional Getrag-engineered seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine of the 335iS adds a special software package to bump power to 326 hp and lift torque to 332 lb-ft--or to an even gutsier 369 lb-ft for short periods via an overboost function that unleashes added turbocharger boost pressure.

Ferrari looks at layoffs, cuts back production

We guess it's not all GTOs and 458 Italias. The word out of Italy is that Ferrari is looking at cutting production and eliminating 9 percent of its workers after sister company Maserati cut engine orders. Ferrari made only about 4,500 engines for Maserati last year, compared with nearly 9,000 in 2008.

SRT8 Charger Super Bee and Challenger Yellow Jacket readied for L.A. auto show

Dodge--or more accurately, the new SRT division--is bringing updated versions of past icons to the Los Angeles auto show. On Nov. 16, the 2012 Charger SRT8 Super Bee will break cover along with its partner in crime, the Challenger SRT8 Yellow Jacket.