Mercedes-AMG diesels on the way

Now that AMG is no longer focused on chasing big horsepower numbers, efficiency could quickly become the new performance benchmark for the Affalterbach-based tuner. Audi has laid the groundwork for the acceptance of diesel powertrains in performance circles with its stunning V12 TDI Concept and R10 race cars, now Mercedes-Benz tuner AMG is considering adding diesel models to its arsenal.Last year, rumors surfaced claiming AMG may launch a Bluetec diesel SUV but since then nothing really has eventuated on that front. Those rumors came about following comments from AMG exec Volker Mornhinweg, stating “in the near future AMG has the opportunity for both hybrids and diesels."

GETTING REVVED UP: Mark Phelan takes a look inside the new Corvette ...

The supercharged 6.2-liter V8 will produce more than 620 horsepower when it goes on sale in the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 this summer. It is the most powerful production engine in General Motors' history, and should get 28-30 m.p.g. in highway driving.

Supercharger

The sixth-generation supercharger from Eaton Corp. uses a brand-new design that has four lobes to compress air and boost engine output. Previous superchargers had just three lobes that twisted just 60 degrees. The extra lobe and the new blower's 160-degree twist help it to compress air more efficiently, reducing fuel consumption.

Piston

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Ferrari F430 Convertible Spyder - 656HP

Novitec's twin-supercharger Evoluzione pack for the Ferrari F430 has been on the market since April of last year but until now the German tuner never offered the kit for the equally potent F430 Spider convertible. Featuring the same twin Rotrex superchargers as its hardtop sibling, the Novitec-tuned Spider pumps out an Enzo-rivalling 656hp and leaves the standard model with only 490hp eating its dust.For the extra power, engineers added a pair of twin Rotrex superchargers, which increased the pressure of air being fed to the engine. Finally, the engine's electronic management system was tweaked with a Motronics ECU and a wind-tunnel tested aerodynamic package with a new rear-spoiler was added.