Rejuvenated by a substantial model update the fifth generation of the Mercedes SL now starts yet another chapter in the unparalleled success story of the popular Mercedes roadster. The corresponding exclusive sport program comes from BRABUS. Powerful increased-displacement engines with up to 730 hp (720 hp SAE net) / 537 kW of power, a striking designer suit, high-quality light-alloy wheels with diameters of up to 20 inches, professional suspension tuning and custom interior design: The BRABUS program leaves nothing to be desired.

The top-of-the-heap BRABUS power source for the SL 600 is the BRABUS SV12 S Biturbo engine, developed originally for the BRABUS ROCKET, the world's fastest sedan. 730 hp (720 hp SAE net) / 537 kW of power and a whopping peak torque of 1,320 Nm (973 lb-ft), electronically limited in the car to 1,100 Nm (811 lb-ft), are the result of numerous modifications. During the displacement increase from 5.5 to 6.3 liters the engine's interior is completely reworked. In addition the engine is fitted with a more efficient turbocharging system and a stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system with metal catalysts. Power is transferred via a reinforced five-speed automatic transmission and a special BRABUS limited-slip differential that is available for all SL models.

Viewed from its roof construction, the new 1-series Cabrio is a classic softy. But under its soft shell lurks a hard masculine cornering machine which isn't pushed aside by anyone: especially in the AC Schnitzer version. As honed as a high performance athlete, the car cuts a fine figure even in the car park. The Aachen-based BMW-tuners have transplanted the muscles visually to the right places. In the end, the vehicle is an agile sprinter and not a bodybuilder who can scarcely move for power. At first glance, the new front skirt strikes you - it is less rounded than standard and runs into a slight taper. This, in combination with the diagonal grille insert, ensures a far more dynamic appearance. And naturally the Cabriolet not only has a neat front, but also a strong rear: The AC Schnitzer rear skirt lip or insert (for M-Technik version) provides an extra cross contour in comparison with the original, and hence a more "powerful" look. Underneath, a diffuser element highlights the sporting heritage of the vehicle. The final touch is given by the chromed tailpipe trim in "Racing" design, available for the 118i, 120i, 125i, 120d and 123d.

Nagano, Japan – For the past 5 years, Auto Produce Boss has proven to be a dominant force in the world of drifting. Led by Auto Produce Boss president and team principal Kazuhiro Fujioka, they have worked with drivers Hayashida, Ueo, Hiraoka, Orido and Kazama; consistently placing in the top 10 and producing a championship win in 2005. Fresh with a new machine, Auto Produce Boss announces their entry into the 2008 D1 Grand Prix series with driver Yoichi Imamura.

2003 D1GP champion Yoichi Imamura has had experience in a wide variety of machines. This year will be his first attempt at a S15 Silvia. “Youichi has a drifting technique that is second to none and superior car control” as said by Boss President and team principal Kazuhiro Fujioka.

In partnership with Bridgestone, the team will be waging war with the new RE-11 tire. The replacement to the RE-01R, this tire matched with DG-5 suspension will be unsurpassed. Keep an eye on them as they try to recapture another championship title.

Steve Saleen announced today the formation of "SMS Limited", Lifestyle Performance Automobiles, the pinnacle brand in his portfolio of companies. As a professional race driver and innovative businessman, Steve is well known as the founder of numerous Steve Saleen Brands including Saleen Autosport in 1983, Saleen Productions in 1993, Saleen Speedlab in 1997, Saleen Performance in 1999, Saleen, Inc. in 2001 and now SMS Limited in 2008. In the years of building the many brands, Mr. Saleen oversaw and participated in every aspect of the business, product development, sales and marketing. His latest endeavor will focus on the expansion into the high-end of the diverse American Muscle Car and Global Supercar markets.

"I am drawing upon 25 years of rich experience in the automotive industry to address the rapidly expanding global market of automotive lifestyle vehicles, technical performance parts, accessories and apparel" explains Steve Saleen, Chairman and CEO of SMS Limited. "SMS will enable us to do what could not be done at Saleen, Inc. due to their heritage with the Ford dealer network and Ford vehicles. We are using this freedom, along with our new technology developed at SMS to create world-class specialty vehicles."

"We are currently developing our Signature Series of ultra high performance vehicles and technical performance parts which will address the new American Muscle Car offerings", discloses Mr. Saleen, "our charter focuses on delivering the best solutions at the best performance value to the varied world of the automotive enthusiast, be they Dodge, Chevrolet or Ford faithful."

Modified Guide rolled out to Los Angles this past Sunday to check out the JDMvs DTM Car Show put on by Import Showoff. The last few years the show have proven to have some of the absolute best quality cars from Southern California and its neighboring states.

This year the show was full of high end cars and some of the biggest show teams where there showing thier support. Team Hybrid had a huge showing as well as High End, and Euro Projekts.

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Modified Guide was there at this years Tokyo Auto Salon to bring our site users full coverage of the famous annual car show. This was our first trip ever to Japan and was quite a amazing trip. The cars at the show where of some of the highest quality we have ever seen, and there where lots of new things to look at. The hit cars of the show where Nissan's new super car the GT-R, Mistsubishi's all new Evo X, and Subaru's all new STI. It was amazing the aftermarket support for the Evo X and STI considering how new they are to the market. After talking with some tuners the GT-R seems to be a tough car to make additional power out of as the ECU is so smart that after a few days it recalibrates its self, which in my opinion is a disappointment, but I'm sure they will work it out over time.

Another trend we noticed was the amount of support by Japanese tunning companies for German autos. HKS had a whole set of new parts dedicated to BMWs. Also walking the show there where several of the new E92 BMW M3s already with suspension, wheels, and aero kits on them. Over all the show was an amazing experience and we highly recommend that if your an enthusiast and have the opportunity to check it out, that it will be a trip of a life time. Please click the read more link to see the different galleries of over 700 photos!