Honda Z50 K3-1978 Handlebar Holder on 2040-parts.com

Volkswagen plans 4 million cars from one platform

Volkswagen is pushing the global-platform concept to a level unprecedented in the auto industry, introducing a modular platform this summer that eventually will be the basis of microcars, sedans, crossovers and SUVs for its four largest brands. While automakers now share platforms across brands and sometimes even segments, the VW initiative that starts this summer is far more ambitious than anything seen so far. By 2017, some analysts estimate, the MQB platform that debuts with the Audi A3 eventually will be used in 4 million units a year--close to half of VW's annual production.

Aston Martin Rapide at 2009 Frankfurt motor show

By Ben Pulman First Official Pictures 15 September 2009 11:30 Nearly three years after Aston Martin unveiled the concept car, the production version of the elegant Rapide saloon has been revealed at the 2009 Frankfurt motor show. It’s Aston Martin’s first four-door car and will cost around £150,000 when sales start in early 2010. No, because Aston Martin admits the rear seats are only suitable for children, or adults on shorter journeys.

Ferrari Exhibit: Cavallino Rampante

On the weekend of October 11, the San Diego Automotive Museum celebrated its 20th Anniversary by hosting a ribbon-cutting ceremony for a special exhibit, Ferrari: Cavallino Rampante - Italy's Prancing Horse. The Saturday evening event was the grand opening reception for 15 rare Ferraris on exhibit, joined by designs created by retired automobile designers and local high school students.  The extravagant evening celebration also served as a finale of two-day Ferrari Road Rally event, inviting owners of Ferraris from various eras to show their cars - which ranged from a 1967 275 GTB and 1968 Dino to a 360 Challenge Stradale. Over a dozen Ferraris parked in front of the museum served as a pleasant prelude to some of marque's memorable examples displayed inside: a collection of rare Ferraris that includes a 1952 212 Europa, 1955 250 Boano Prototipo, 1956 250 GT Zagato, 1957 250 Testarossa, 1959 410 Super America and 1965 275 GTB/Competizione.