European automakers drive up hp

• November
• 30

4:02 am Trucks

This is the final review of new automotive offerings for the 2008 model year.

BMW

The big news for South Carolina’s sole auto producer is the long-awaited arrival of the 1-Series. It has been around the continent since 2004. Surprisingly, the company decided to go without a four-cylinder for the U.S. market. The four is popular over there, but the nimble six is deemed best here with its 230-horsepower engine. BMW says the 128i and 135i coupes both dash to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds. Also in the package are 18-inch aluminum wheels and high-performance tires.

Of equal interest is the BMW M3 coupe coming next spring with new V-8 power. It will be designated a 2009 model; this review is for 2008s.

Mercedes-Benz

The CL63 AMG is powered up to 518 hp. The Limited Edition CL65 AMG celebrates its 40th anniversary with a 604-hp engine. Further, there is the 2008 M-B SLR McLaren roadster with a 617-hp engine capable of reaching 60 mph in four seconds. No wonder it commands a $500,000 base price.

Porsche

While we are in the power and speed mode, check out the 911 GT3 RS (the RS stands for Racing Sport). It was intentionally designed for racing with a top speed of 193 mph. Also in this range is the 911 for ‘08, now with a soft top that can raise and lower in 20 seconds.

Volvo

The new Volvo C30 meets the objective of a definite move to appeal to the younger generation. The small hatchback comes in two versions, 1.0 and 2.0. Car and Driver magazine’s appraisal: “Sweet 6-cylinder, slick clutch action, clever graphics in the dash display — nice butt, too,” whatever that means.

Audi

The S5 coupe, a first from Audi in 16 years, is designed to compete with German rivals BMW and Mercedes-Benz. The eight-cylinder S5 arrives this month. It has a top speed of 155 mph and a base price of about $53,000.

Jaguar

This old reliable sedan has been updated with larger wheels and re-styled front seats, which are climate- controlled. Available engines are 300-400 hp. The X-Type gets a number of additional standard features included in the base price.

Saab

The 9-3 is restyled with a retro clamshell hood first seen in 1967. It is powered by a 280-hp turbo V-6.

Smart fortwo

That is not a typo. That’s the name of the low-priced two-seater from Mercedes-Benz. It will be distributed here by the Penske Automotive Group starting in the spring. It carries a rear-mounted 71-hp engine with anti-lock brakes as standard equipment. Its expected price will be $12,000-$17,000.

Maybach

For 2008, it will come with a fourth model, the 67S. The power plant is a 5.5-liter, 543-hp twin turbo V-12.

Rolls-Royce

The Phantom Drophead Coupe is an added convertible to the lineup. To ensure quietness with the top in the up position, five layers of fabric have been added. The power plant is a 6.7-liter, 453-hp V-12. Also standard are eight air bags.