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Water-cooled VWs may not have the same sex appeal as a vintage air-cooled VW does, but they are still really capable and racers have been pushing them to their limits in all kinds of ways for decades. The Volkswagen 20VT is a well sorted platform that makes good power with many available upgrades, and there are plenty of racers out there who have tried to find their limits. And if you thought those limits might be the 8’s, or even 7’s, in the quarter then you would be mistaken. Watch as this beast runs 6’s in a Bantam roadster at Santa Pod. I love a good Bantam roadster because their light weight and wheelbase make them a great platform for any engine combo. Throw in a built 20VT with a giant turbo and this little beast hauls ass. Watch. Video Description: Today’s feature is all about pushing boundaries; Ben Mace’s Bantam Altered, better known as “Audios.” Powered by a VW 20VT, this car has rewritten what’s possible for the platform. In 2025, Audios made history by breaking the world record for the VW 20VT engine and becoming the first 20VT-powered car to enter the 6-second zone over the ¼ mile. An unbelievable achievement for a four-cylinder platform and a massive milestone for VW drag racing worldwide. The post NEW WORLD RECORD! This VW 20VT Powered Bantam Altered Breaks Into the 6s At Santa Pod! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Hot(ter) Alpines in the PipelineAlpine might not be available in the U.S., but it's a brand that's doing decently well over in Europe. Admittedly, its lineup is relatively limited, but for a niche brand, it has good cache. Currently, it builds the Cayman-fighting A110, the A290 hot (electric) hatch based on the Renault 5 e-Tech, and the A390 performance EV crossover. But Alpine CEO Philippe Krief wants to take the brand to the next level. The executive would like to make more extreme models down the line, from hotter versions of its current models, all the way to a halo supercar. Ambitious, yes, but it's not totally a flight of fancy. Alpine Making EVs DanceAlpine is currently in the process of turning itself into a pure EV performance marque. The first step in making that happen is with the APP architecture. It's short for Alpine Performance Platform, and it's set to be a vital part of the A110's electric successor. Parts of its DNA have also been applied to the A290 hatchback and A390 crossover. What Krief would like is to "use the APP platforms to do extreme things," saying those exact words to Auto Express. These so-called extreme Alpines will be limited-run models with extensive re-engineering and a price tag to match. Existing models could benefit from that first, before moving on to the next generation of Alpine vehicles. An all-wheel drive subcompact hatchback with about as much punch as a Porsche 911 Turbo? Yes, please. Mind you, the company has already dipped its toes into that idea. It was with the ultra-exclusive A110 R Ultime, with only 110 units built. It featured a redesigned turbo, a totally new transmission made specifically for it, an Akrapovic titanium exhaust system, Ohlins adjustable dampers, AP Racing brakes with a totally recalibrated system, and loads of aero add-ons. It retailed for a whopping €265,000 (about $360,000), and yes, it actually sold out. By the looks of it, Alpine would like to replicate that kind of success, reception, and profitability for its future EV sports cars. The Dream ProjectOne thing you should know about Alpine's current CEO is that he came from Ferrari. Krief was director of engineering at Maranello before heading to Alpine, and he led the development of the SF90 Stradale. With that, he would like the French automaker to come up with something that can go toe-to-toe with the Prancing Horse. Perhaps not a direct rival for something like a 296 GTB, though. Krief previously said that his vision for the ideal Alpine supercar would still reflect that brand's ethos. "My dream is rather a modern Alpine interpretation of the Dino. A light, not-so-powerful car. Why? Because it’s exactly the DNA of Alpine," said the executive. With that in mind, the car will likely draw inspiration from the Alpenglow concept shown during the 2022 Geneva Motor Show. Krief mentioned that it will be used as a rolling laboratory of sorts before it fully commits to such a project. That said, he is aware that there will be challenges and hurdles before it even gets started on that endeavour. "We [Alpine] really need to grow as a brand… to ensure that we can deliver the kind of customer experience that supercar buyers are used to." Alpine View the full article

Maxwell Paternoster’s art is what would happen if you soaked R. Crumb’s brain in gasoline and LSD — at once deranged, poignant, and darkly humorous. Swap the ballooned manic breasts of Crumb’s characters with sweaty robots and laser skulls, and you’re most of the way there — a trip of contemporary m... View the full article

Attention MagnetAfter revealing their polarizing take on the Rolls-Royce Wraith coupe earlier this year, Dubai-based customizer Venuum has now set its sights on the Dawn convertible with a radical widebody conversion that trades the traditional elegance that defines Rolls-Royce for outright spectacle. With its matte white exterior contrasting against a bright orange interior, the Dawn Venuum makes a statement that is hard to ignore. While the build may not be to everyone’s taste, taste is subjective; if an attention magnet is what you seek, Venuum is offering this kit in the U.S., and there aren’t very many up for grabs. Super Exclusive, Even for a RollsVenuum will build just 25 examples of this Dawn body kit worldwide, instantly placing it in an ultra-exclusive space, even by Rolls-Royce standards. This exclusivity, however, isn’t rooted in heritage or coachbuilding history, but rather in rarity, shock value, and visual drama. It is designed to appeal to buyers who want their Rolls-Royce convertible to be even rarer than it already is, while also looking the part. Breaking TraditionAbandoning the stately chrome grille that has adorned every Rolls-Royce for over a century may be the most controversial feature of this build. In its place, we have a white panel that features a repeating pattern of triangular vents that also appear on the redesigned lower intakes. The stock headlights are retained, although portions of it are obscured by the new bodywork, while, just below them are round auxiliary lights. Even the Spirit of Ecstasy wasn’t spared the Venuum treatment; the statuette is now white, while the ‘RR’ logo under it has gone from monochrome to orange. New front and rear quarter panels along the sides and thicker rocker panels work together to widen the car’s stance and give it a low, stretched-out appearance with exaggerated proportions. The rear has also been completely reimagined, with the signature LED taillights replaced with a full-width LED light bar above a redesigned bumper, aggressive diffuser, and new exhaust tips. Lower down, the solid-face wheels seem inspired by the aerodiscs of old. Venuum View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Not for the Average Rolls-Royce BuyerThe Rolls-Royce Dawn Venuum isn’t aimed at the traditional luxury purist. It instead caters to buyers who want their exclusivity served with a healthy topping of visual spectacle. With only 25 of these on offer, broad appeal was never the point; this car was always meant to stand out, even among exalted company. View the full article

It's Called the What?Granted, words in Mandarin don't necessarily translate too well in literal English, but a company called Starry Sky Automotive has built itself a supercar prototype. The Chinese upstart aims to compete with the likes of Ferrari and Lamborghini and will show it in the metal at next month's Consumer Electronics Show (CES), alongside another Chinese startup that will bring a pair of show cars. Now, Googling Starry Sky Automotive was a tough ask. It appears the company is so new that it hasn't really made rounds outside its home country just yet, as we were greeted by photos of Rolls-Royce's Starlight headliner when we typed in those words. Thankfully, some Chinese websites have covered this curiosity that you'll see at CES 2026. Starry Sky Automotive Some HighlightsIn terms of looks, it follows the typical supercar format with a low-slung body, exaggerated proportions, and aerodynamic bits all over the place. But while it gives off the impression of a mid-engined vehicle, it's actually got four doors. However, that wasn't the only thing that caught our attention. A close-up shot of the wheels reveals something you wouldn't usually see in a four-door, let alone in something that has a wind-cheating shape. There are six wheel studs present, which you'd see on a full-sized SUV or pickup. As for the rest of it, there's a huge wing at the back, a barrage of air intakes and outlets, and full-width tail lights. Starry Sky Automotive What About Specs?Specs are a complete mystery at the time of writing, but Chinese automotive media have been saying that it might have about 1,000 hp, and that the company that built it claims a 0 to 62 mph time of 1.8 seconds. It's likely that it's a pure electric vehicle, given the direction of the Chinese auto industry. There were also constant mentions of it being a match for the Bugatti Veyron. If you reached this point, we totally understand the skepticism surrounding this car. It's a hugely ambitious project with some bold claims. Not only that, the company says it aims to release the vehicle sometime in 2027. Mind you, the Chinese are, indeed, capable of building a supercar. BYD's Yangwang U9 has been making headlines since it was first revealed in 2024. Yes, it really does exist, and it's an actual production car. Oh, and customers have actually received them, too. View the full article

It's not often we come across a vehicle that is built by a major manufacturer in low volumes for a single purpose and with a price most of us can stomach, but that's exactly the case with today's find. Listed on Bring a Trailer is this 1989 Hägglunds M973A1 Small Unit Support Vehicle, or SUSV, a tracked amphibious vehicle that was delivered to the U.S. Army in August 1989. It entered private ownership in 2024, and the exterior was refinished in bed liner material, replacing its original green paint. Amazingly, it sold for USD $113,111, almost what it would cost to buy a brand-new 2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Indomitable Mercedes Diesel Grunt Bring a Trailer The monstrous machine, the U.S. military equivalent of the Swedish-designed Hägglunds BV206, is powered by a 3.0-liter Mercedes-Benz OM603 turbodiesel six-cylinder engine (not much unlike that in the Unimog), which produces around 136 horsepower and up to 229 lb-ft of torque. Fortunately, the new owner won't be shifting gears manually, as power is delivered to the four-track-drive system through a four-speed automatic, and traffic won't be an issue as this is an off-road-only beast. It seems like an ideal base for the wildest exploratory expeditions, with rubber tracks that allow it to travel over loose ground, snow, mud, and water, and it should be relatively comfortable, too, thanks to a reupholstered interior, a heater, and a 24-volt electrical system. Bring a Trailer View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article The SUSV also boasts two bilge bumps and a fire suppression system, and if those don't work, there's a roof hatch for a quick escape. That's not entirely unlikely, either, as the vehicle's Wikipedia page reveals that the fire suppression system was added after several instances of the front car catching fire and burning to the frame. Low Mileage, Which is No Surprise Bring a Trailer View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article The VDO instrumentation indicates that the vehicle has covered roughly 5,000 kilometers, or around 3,100 miles (only 10% of which were added by the selling owner), and that low mileage count is to be expected given how few places there are to drive the vehicle. The gauges also show an 80 km/h (49 mph) speedometer, though that's probably a lofty target in something like this. But with a load capacity of 4,960 lbs plus a trailer capable of handling up to 5,500 lbs of gross weight, the Hägglunds M973A1 SUSV is meant for utility, not speed. Of course, there are other ways of showing off. Like crossing a river, for example. Bring a Trailer View the full article

Let's Get Ready to RumbleThe returning Hemi V8 in the Ram 1500 may remain the sentimental favorite among enthusiasts, but a recent test by Car and Driver suggests the newer 3.0-liter Hurricane twin-turbo inline-six outperforms it in several measurable ways. Both Hurricane variants – the 420-horsepower standard-output and the 540-horsepower high-output (HO) – were pitted against the Hemi, with the publication stating that its “test data points to an obvious winner.” In the 0-60 mph sprint, the 420-hp Hurricane – available in Ram 1500 trims such as the Laramie and Rebel – clocked a 4.8-second run. That’s already 1.2 seconds quicker than the 5.7-liter Hemi V8, which produces 395 horsepower. The HO Hurricane – offered in trims like the RHO, Limited (used in the test), and Tungsten – widened the gap further, delivering a 4.2-second pass. Stellantis Hurricane Comes in HotFor context, Ram itself lists the HO Hurricane-powered 1500 RHO with a factory 0-60 mph time of 4.6 seconds. Even so, the performance crown still belongs to the discontinued 1500 TRX, whose 6.2-liter supercharged Hemi V8 propelled it to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds, according to Car and Driver’s testing. Beyond straight-line speed, the Hurricane engines also showed an advantage in noise levels. The Hemi V8 registered a wide-open-throttle noise output of 81 decibels – 10 dBA louder than the HO Hurricane and 14 dBA louder than the standard inline-six. Fuel economy, however, remains surprisingly close across all three. The Hemi returns 18 mpg combined, slotting between the standard Hurricane at 19 mpg and the HO version at 17 mpg, which requires 91-octane fuel. The latter also requires premium fuel. Stellantis Looking Beyond the NumbersSo why does this comparison matter? Despite the Hurricane’s objective gains in performance and refinement, enthusiast preference continues to favor the Hemi. Ram 1500s equipped with the returning V8 – reintroduced for the 2026 model year – have reportedly been turning over in as few as five days, and the automaker is having a hard time keeping up with demand. Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis has also openly admitted the brand “screwed up” by dropping the Hemi in the first place. The V8's return now sees it sold alongside the Hurricane engines, which Ram still describes as “more powerful and more efficient.” Ultimately, though, deciding which powertrain is better comes down to buyer preference. Looking ahead, enthusiasts are also watching closely for reports that the Ram 1500 TRX could make a comeback. Rumors suggest output could climb as high as 797 horsepower, which, if true, would put it squarely ahead of its longtime rival, the Ford F-150 Raptor R. RAM View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

A costly new normalIf it feels like buying a new car now comes with a rent-sized bill every month, the numbers back you up. New data from credit reporting agency Experian shows the average monthly payment on a new vehicle in the U.S. has climbed to $748—a level that would have sounded absurd less than a decade ago. According to Experian’s report, which runs through the third quarter of 2025, the typical new car now sells for $42,332. With average interest rates at 6.56 percent, it doesn’t take much math to see how monthly payments are ballooning. Buyers are also leaning heavily on longer loan terms to make those payments manageable. The average new-car loan now stretches to 69 months, and about 81% of new vehicles purchased this year were financed. What’s perhaps more unsettling is how stable this has become. Average payments have hovered around the low-to-mid $740 range since midyear, suggesting this isn’t a temporary spike or seasonal blip. The wild price swings of the pandemic era have largely settled—but they’ve settled at a much higher level than before. Used cars offer less relief than you’d expectUsed vehicles still come with lower monthly payments, but “lower” doesn’t mean cheap. Experian says the average used-car payment reached $532 in the third quarter of 2025. That figure is tied to an average transaction price of $27,128, a number that would have seemed extravagant only a few years ago. Getty Images The bigger issue for used buyers is interest. Average rates on used-car loans now sit at a punishing 11.40 percent, more than four points higher than rates for new vehicles. Loan terms are only slightly shorter, averaging 67 months, which means buyers are still committing to long repayment periods—just with less favorable financing. Notably, far fewer used-car shoppers are taking on loans at all. Only about 35 percent financed their purchase this year, according to Experian. That suggests more buyers are paying cash, making large down payments, or opting out of the market altogether as affordability erodes. The long road to $750 a monthThe climb to today’s payments didn’t happen overnight. Federal Reserve data shows a steady increase in the average amount financed on new vehicles from 2009 through 2019. That trend exploded during the pandemic, when supply shortages and pent-up demand sent prices soaring in 2020 through 2022. Ford By 2022, average monthly payments had already crossed $700. While inventory has improved since then, prices never meaningfully retreated. Instead, they flattened out at a new, higher baseline—one that has carried payments to record highs in 2025. Final thoughtsFor consumers, the takeaway is hard to ignore: affordability has fundamentally changed. A $750 monthly payment is no longer reserved for luxury brands or fully loaded trucks. It’s increasingly the cost of entry for an average new car. Longer loan terms may soften the monthly hit, but they come with trade-offs, including higher interest costs and more time spent owing more than the car is worth. Unless prices or interest rates fall significantly, these payments may be here to stay—forcing buyers to choose between used cars with high rates, extended loans, or simply holding onto their current vehicles a lot longer. View the full article

Breaking Range Barriers with Smart EngineeringRenault has demonstrated that electric vehicles don't need massive battery packs to achieve impressive range figures. The company's Filante test vehicle just managed to drive 626 miles on a single charge, finishing the run with 11 percent battery remaining and setting an efficiency record in the process. What’s more impressive is that this figure wasn’t a hypermiling attempt; it was achieved at highway speeds, at an average of 63 mph. Sure, the Filante is a streamlined test vehicle weighing just 2,200 pounds, approximately half the weight of typical EVs today, but its secret lies in combining optimized aerodynamics with minimized rolling resistance. It also uses power-saving steer-by-wire and brake-by-wire systems. The result is an average efficiency of 8 miles per kWh, far exceeding even the best production EVs like the Tesla Model 3, which manage around 5 miles per kWh. This remarkable efficiency demonstrates that aero and intelligent power management can deliver results that rival simply stuffing more cells into the floor pan. Renault View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article From Test Track to Production RealityThe Filante uses the same 87 kWh battery pack found in Renault production models. The Renault Scenic E-Tech electric crossover equipped with the same battery achieves approximately 380 miles under official testing conditions. During sustained highway driving, that figure typically drops by 30 percent, illustrating how far current production vehicles remain from optimal efficiency, in terms of aerodynamics, rolling resistance, and weight. Renault’s minimalist approach matters because battery production remains resource-intensive and expensive. By maximizing efficiency, automakers can deliver competitive range figures with smaller packs, reducing manufacturing costs and the environmental impact, ultimately making for more sustainable electric vehicles. Renault View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article A New Direction for EV Development?While the Filante is an aerodynamic test platform rather than a production model, the technologies it validates will find their way into future Renault electric vehicles. The lessons learned from this record run will work their way into everything from body panel design to regenerative braking calibration. Engineers can now apply these findings to vehicles that consumers will actually drive, improving real-world range without adding weight or cost through bigger batteries. Renault For consumers, this could mean future EVs that cost less, charge faster due to smaller batteries, and still deliver the range needed for daily driving and longer journeys. The Filante project proves the concept works. View the full article

With the success of Hot Rod Drag Week, which started in 2005, other Drag and Drive events started popping up around the world. While nobody in the United States wanted to put one on in the early days, until Matt Frost started Rocky Mountain Race Week, the Australians, Canadians, Swedes, and Brits were getting their own events going with great success as well. And when the Brits decided that they wanted their own version of Street Week in Sweden they decided that Street Weekend was right for them. Thankfully the folks at Santa Pod do a great job at livestreaming and videoing so you know that the Street Weekend Movie is going to be good. Check it out. Video Description: It’s time again to find out who’s really king of the street. In a nod to the coveted Hot Rod Drag Week in the USA, drivers needed to set and submit a time at Santa Pod Raceway in Northamptonshire before driving around 200 miles to Melbourne Raceway in York to set a time on day 2 and then returning again and setting a time on the 3rd day. Track conditions were different on each day, starting on a freshly prepped track at Santa Pod on day 1, an unprepped 1/8-mile challenge at Melbourne on day 2 and finally back at Santa Pod on day 3 after the track’s had a full day of RWYB. In summary, we’re looking at around 400 miles on the road across 3 days whilst also recording a time on track on each one of the days. Who will come out on top? Street Weekend 4 will be 4-7 June 2026 Details at https://santapod.co.uk/street-weekend/ The post Street Weekend Drag and Drive 2025 – The Movie! Racing Action From England’s Second Drag and Drive appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

The Best of Both Worlds? Not AlwaysA plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) offers several advantages, including lower fuel costs and reduced emissions, without requiring buyers to make a full transition to an all-electric vehicle. However, apart from their apparent non-eco-friendliness, PHEVs experience roughly 80 percent more problems than their purely internal-combustion counterparts, according to Consumer Reports (CR). This figure raises questions about the technology’s long-term reliability and reputation. In its latest annual survey – based on responses from the owners of about 380,000 vehicles from the 2000 through 2025 model years, and a few early 2026 models – CR breaks down which PHEV models across various segments contributed most to that disparity, offering buyers more detailed insight as they consider their next vehicle purchase. CR's 2026 PHEV ListThe Ford Escape PHEV ranks as the least reliable among compact SUVs, a segment that also includes the Toyota RAV4 Prime and the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV. Owners participating in the survey cited a wide range of issues specific to the Escape PHEV, including EV battery replacement, battery cooling, EV charging, and electric accessories. In addition to PHEV-related concerns, respondents also reported non-electrification-related problems involving the steering and suspension, as well as the climate control system. Stellantis appears multiple times on the list, starting with the Jeep Wrangler and Grand Cherokee using the 4xe, the automaker’s plug-in hybrid technology paired with a 4x4 drivetrain. According to CR, all reported issues were tied directly to the 4xe system, including problems with the hybrid system itself, EV battery stalling, and the electric motor. One owner claimed their vehicle was “bricked for nearly six months,” while another reported making eight dealer visits to address recurring hybrid-related failures. Regulators have also taken notice. NHTSA has been involved in multiple 4xe actions, including a recall tied to loss of drive power issued earlier this year. Separately, the non-4xe Grand Cherokee was also cited in Consumer Reports’ latest survey of the most unreliable SUVs. At the larger end of the spectrum, the Mazda CX-90 PHEV reportedly ranks as the least reliable among full-size SUVs. This finding mirrors CR’s 2026 Reliability Brand Rankings, in which Mazda dropped from the top 10 to 14th overall. The CX-90 PHEV was flagged for a long list of problems, including issues with the EV battery, electric motor, and engine electrical system. Owners also reported faults involving the transmission (both major and minor), drivetrain and fuel system, climate controls, steering and suspension, brakes, electric accessories, body hardware, in-car electronics, noises/leaks, and paint and trim quality. One owner summarized their experience by saying their CX-90 PHEV suffered a “hybrid malfunction that causes the car to seize. It will not start, go into gear, or charge.” Stellantis The Cost of ComplexityIn the luxury segment, the Volvo XC60 PHEV earns similarly unwanted recognition. The report cites issues affecting electrical accessories, the climate system, the drivetrain, the electric motor, and the EV battery. One owner noted that after just a month of ownership, their XC60 PHEV “would not go over 26 mph and went into snail mode,” a term commonly used to describe limp mode, where power output is reduced to prevent further damage. Another Stellantis model is the Chrysler Pacifica PHEV, though, to be fair, it remains the only minivan with a plug-in hybrid powertrain currently sold in the U.S. For context, the Toyota Sienna and Kia Carnival are offered only as conventional hybrids. At the same time, the Honda Odyssey remains purely internal combustion, despite its Japan-market counterpart using a dual-motor hybrid setup similar to that found in the Civic and Accord. According to CR, Pacifica PHEV owners reported issues involving the transmission, engine, in-car electronics, electric accessories, EV charging, and EV battery cooling. With automakers like Volvo now scaling back earlier all-electric timelines, this report suggests there is still considerable work to be done to ensure that multi-powertrain strategies – particularly those involving PHEVs – can deliver the reliability consumers expect. Ford View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

When I think back to my earliest Christmas memories, one of the things I do remember was going to Christmas Tree farms to choose and cut our own tree. It was fun, and made getting a tree, bringing it home, and putting it up an adventure on its own. It was a good time, and also built excitement for getting home and decorating. Back then we went in a squarebody Suburban that my dad drove, and I do have fond memories of the adventures. Did the Sleeperdude family have that kind of fun? Or did the Jeep kick their butts? Video Description: It’s time to get this rust free survivor 47 Jeep CJ-2A back on the road after 15 years parked. We are going to fix the brakes, a full detail and paint restoration, custom painted pinstripes, and a full modern 12 volt conversion. Then we take it on it’s first road trip to go off road trail riding to look for a Christmas tree for the goats. The post Sleeperdude and Family Take An Off Road Christmas Tree Journey in an 80 Year Old Jeep That Doesn’t Drive Yet appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

The Corvette ZR1 Makes More?Automakers typically advertise crank horsepower, which is always higher than wheel horsepower due to drivetrain losses. So when Hennessey Performance dyno tested a stock Chevrolet C8 Corvette ZR1 and recorded a peak output of 1,050 horsepower, the result immediately raised eyebrows. Chevrolet lists the C8 Corvette ZR1 at 1,064 horsepower from the factory, a figure that represents crank output. Under normal circumstances, wheel horsepower should be noticeably lower once drivetrain losses are factored in. However, the dyno used by Hennessey Performance measures wheel horsepower, making the recorded 1,050-hp result difficult to explain on paper. If the tuner’s findings are taken at face value, it suggests the ZR1’s actual crank output could be substantially higher – potentially in the 1,100- to 1,200-horsepower range. Exceptional Performance MachinePeak power was recorded at 6,960 rpm, while the torque curve topped out at 821 lb-ft at 4,810 rpm. Since the test vehicle was completely stock, the engine in question was Chevrolet’s 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged flat-plane-crank V8, currently regarded as the most powerful engine ever fitted to a production Corvette. The Corvette ZR1 has already backed up its numbers on the track. It has set multiple performance records, including clocking a 6:50.763 lap time at the Nürburgring Nordschleife, beating the 815-horsepower Ford Mustang GTD around the famed German circuit. So why would Chevrolet deliberately downplay the ZR1’s horsepower – assuming that’s what’s happening? There are several plausible explanations. One possibility is strategic positioning within the lineup. Chevrolet may be careful not to overshadow the Corvette’s even more extreme flagship, the ZR1X, which produces a combined 1,250 horsepower thanks to the addition of a hybrid electric motor driving the front axle. If the standard ZR1 were openly acknowledged to be operating in the same horsepower territory, it could undermine the performance gap – and, by extension, the flagship branding – of the ZR1X. Hennessey Performance on YouTube Baseline Set, Now Comes the FunPricing further reinforces that hierarchy. Chevrolet’s consumer site currently lists the Corvette ZR1 starting at $185,000, while the ZR1X is shown at $209,700. While the automaker has not officially capped production for either model, availability may still be limited by supply-chain constraints, particularly for the hybridized ZR1X. Pinning down the ZR1’s true crank horsepower may ultimately prove difficult. What is clearer is what comes next. Hennessey Performance – the same company known for delivering huge performance improvements as seen in cars like the 2,031-horsepower Venom F5 Evolution – is almost certainly working on a tune that will push the Corvette ZR1 even further. And as with any serious performance project, it all starts on the dyno, establishing a benchmark before the real gains begin. Chevrolet View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Stacey is back at it in this episode of Gearz, working on his 240Z project which is getting some suspension and brake upgrades to keep this project moving. These cars have a ton of high performance heritage and a lot of available parts, so these are going to be a pretty legit improvement that will make it a riot to drive when it is all done. Video Description: This time on GEARZ, Stacey rolls the 240Z onto the lift and starts laying out the new brakes and suspension that’s going to go under it. The stock suspension and brakes were good, but when you add a few race-inspired components, it will take the braking and handling of your old Z car to a whole different level. After that, we showcase America’s oldest motorsport, the tractor pull, to give you a peek at what you’ve been missing if you haven’t been to one lately! It’s all about power, and it’s all on GEARZ! The post 240z Suspension & Brake Upgrades, Plus Cool Tractor Pulling Innovations On Stacey David’s Gearz appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

One of the big issues with attaching a rooftop tent to a side-by-side is that most UTV racks aren't strong enough for them. Groenberg's ultralight 'Weekend' tent could change that. View the full article

Here we go again with another one of Derek’s Vice Grip Garage Christmas Extras. This time he’s taking the Texas 1957 Chevrolet on a road trip for a trade. He has no clue how good the trade is, as he’s made arrangements without seeing this thing, and he’s had to do some work to the ’57 in order for it to make the 350 mile trip. Will it make it after getting some love? And will the trade be worth it? Will it make it home? Hmmm Video Description: The Texas 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air is back. I spent time in the shop rehabbing the paint, tires and wheels, and more engine work. After a deep clean I throw it back on the highway once again to meet a destination. There I will trade for a car I agreed to, sight unseen. The post 350 Mile ROAD TRIP in the 1957 Chevy Belair – Derek Traded SIGHT UNSEEN After He Finished The Rebuild! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

The Gravel What?Yes, it's a silly name, but the Subaru Impreza Gravel Express was a pioneering model in many ways. Launched in 1995 as a limited-run special in Japan, only 1,300 of these were ever built, and it is an incredibly rare car these days. So rare, in fact, that manufacturer photos are few and far between. We ended up heading to Cars & Bids and Bring a Trailer for clearer photos of this oddly-named JDM special. Mind you, this wasn't the only special edition Impreza sold exclusively in its home market. There were literally dozens made throughout the first-generation model's production run. But what makes the Gravel Express special is that the niche model would form the basis of one of Subaru's best-selling models. Wagon on Tall TiresOne thing you should know about the Gravel Express is that the first-generation Outback Sport actually pre-dated it by about a year. The formulas applied to these models were similar, though. Simply put: take an Impreza Wagon, give it a few more inches of ground clearance, and slap on generous body cladding. Okay, the Gravel Express didn't get the same amount of cladding as the Outback Sport, but it did gain a couple of off-road-oriented accessories. Notable additions included a pair of roof rails, a rear spare tire carrier, and a faux stepboard. That said, we're not entirely sure if the front bullbar was standard or an optional accessory. Some examples that we saw for sale either had it or didn't. Cars & Bids Of Course, Japan Gets the Cooler VersionBut the biggest difference between the Outback Sport and Gravel Express could be seen under the hood. Instead of a 2.2-liter engine fitted to the American model, the Japanese version got a 2.0-liter turbocharged mill straight from the JDM WRX from the same era. The result was 256 horsepower coursed through all four wheels, putting emphasis on the Express part of its name. By comparison, the Outback Sport's naturally-aspirated 2.2-liter mustered just 135 hp. It didn't come with a manual, though, and the only transmission choice was a four-speed automatic. One can say that the Gravel Express' DNA has spread to other models in the company's lineup. The whole idea of a lifted five-door Impreza eventually bore successive generations of the Outback Sport. Eventually, that model evolved into what we now know as the Crosstrek. It's just a shame we don't get boosted Crosstreks these days, so you'll need to build one yourself if you want a true modern interpretation of the Gravel Express. At least the WRX Wagon is still around, but you'll have to go abroad to get one. View the 22 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Global SweetheartWhen it comes to popularity and name recall, the Toyota RAV4 can be considered one of those models. Ever since its launch in the late '90s, the nameplate has always been a consistent seller for Toyota – even outselling the Ford F-150 in the US last year. Over the years, the RAV4 has remained relevant, catering to as many customers as possible, and yes, even with outfitters looking to add a touch of personality to their vehicles. That said, the RAV4 also enjoys a healthy stream of modifications and aftermarket support, which will be highlighted in an upcoming major motor show in Japan. Toyota Shokki Three Outfitted Concepts AnnouncedWhen we think of Toyota, our minds usually drift to the GR Department as the only modifier within the brand. However, there is a Toyota division called Toyota Shokki that also dabbles in modifications, and it just announced a lineup of three concepts to be shown during the upcoming 2026 Tokyo Auto Salon. Toyota Shokki is interestingly considered the "Mother" brand of the whole group, not only specializing in cars. In fact, Shokki's interests lay scattered in textiles and even forklifts, but Shokki also manufactures different major car parts for the Japanese marque. During next year's Tokyo Auto Salon, Toyota Shokki will put on display their own renditions of RAV4 modifications. The three cars to be displayed are the Outdoor Style Concept, the GR Sport Prototype, and the RAV4 Upgrade Concept (based on the previous-generation model). Looking at them individually, the Outdoor Style Concept features a more rugged exterior look, black cladding on the front fascia, bigger off-road tires, and a roof rack. The GR Sport Prototype will be displayed along with GR-specific products for the new RAV4, and finally, the RAV4 Upgrade Concept is a 'half-and-half' model that showcases a before-and-after modification look. Toyota Shokki Past to PresentWhile it may be a surprise to some that another sub-group within Toyota is doing RAV4 modifications, Toyota Shokki actually already has experience with this specific model. Back in 2024, the same group rocked up to the 2025 Tokyo Auto Salon with the futuristic Tron-like RAV4 Dark Side Performance Concept. Toyota Shokki View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Austin Flemming’s passion for cars began long before he could drive one. Growing up near St. Louis, Missouri, he was surrounded by horsepower. His parents and grandparents owned muscle cars and race cars that filled his childhood with the sights, sounds, and smells of the shop. What first caught his attention was how the cars looked, but what truly hooked him was how they worked. Editor’s Note: This story originally appeared in DI #197, the 30 Under 30 Issue, in November/December 2025. That curiosity turned into creativity. Throughout elementary and high school, Flemming spent hours sketching muscle cars and race cars with pencils and markers, dreaming about the day he could build one himself. That dream started to take shape the moment his father asked him to hop into the driver’s seat of his Corvette and crank the engine while he poured gas into the carburetor. From that day forward, Flemming vowed that one day he’d have a car of his own to wrench on. When he turned 16, he made good on that promise. His first vehicle, a slick S10 pickup, received a few mild mods before he graduated to what he calls his first “real project”: a 1987 Chevrolet Silverado. “I was just 18 at the time, but I lowered it, built my first small-block engine for it, and put a Muncie four-speed transmission in it,” he recalls. “I added a dually bed with fat wheels and tires. It was my pride and joy.” At the time, Flemming was working at a grocery store, cleaning restrooms to make ends meet. Every Thursday night, he’d drive his Silverado to the local Sonic drive-in, where the truck drew plenty of attention – and admiration. Those moments cemented his dream of working with cars, even if he didn’t yet know how to make that dream a reality. After trying an office job for a year, Flemming decided to pursue a more hands-on path. At 23, he enrolled at Ranken Technical College in St. Louis, entering the Advanced Manufacturing program with a focus on CNC Machining. “I figured that degree could tie directly into making car parts,” he says. “I wanted to learn how to create the kind of components that made cars perform.” As graduation approached, Flemming was completing an internship at a local machine shop when a friend called with a lead – a laser cutting position at Jerry Bickel Race Cars in Moscow Mills, Missouri. “I didn’t have laser experience, but the job fit perfectly with what I’d learned about software and part design,” he says. “I interviewed quietly – didn’t even tell anyone – and got the job.” That moment, Flemming says, was the true turning point in his life. “Getting hired at Jerry Bickel Race Cars changed everything for me,” he explains. “It was when I realized I could turn my passion into a career. I started out running the laser, then moved into fabricating, part design, welding, building driveshafts, and even helping with social media. Five years later, I can honestly say this is my dream job. Designing parts for some of the fastest cars in the world and seeing our customers succeed – it’s surreal. To go from cleaning restrooms to working at Jerry Bickel Race Cars…it’s hard to put into words.” Flemming also keeps his hands busy with his own passion project, a 1956 Chevrolet pickup truck he bought for just $275 about seven years ago. “I parked it at the farm for a few years, buying parts when I could,” he says. “Then two years ago, my friend Kyle Weintraut and I started laying out a chassis with help from Steve Klosterhoff. It’s finally starting to take shape – a full-tube chassis modeled after a Jerry Bickel Pro Mod, powered by a roots-blown LS and a stick-shift transmission. It’s being built for drag-and-drive events, and I’ve learned everything I need to build it right here at work.” Looking back, Flemming hopes his journey inspires others to chase what they love. “A lot of people helped me get to where I am – my family, friends, and everyone here at Bickel,” he says. “My path to Jerry Bickel Race Cars means the world to me. I want others to feel the same pride and fulfillment I do when they find their own passion.” The post DI 30 Under 30 2025: Austin Flemming first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Built for LaughsCar modifications usually aim to improve looks or performance. This builder from Detroit, however, admitted his one-of-a-kind Chrysler minivan project was created to be “silly and fun.” The result is a bizarre twin-nosed minivan, formed by welding together the front ends of two '90s-era minivans, with the rear half capable of controlling the vehicle. Zach Sutton, a Detroit-based manufacturing engineer, built the project he calls “Bak2Bak.” Speaking with USA Today, Sutton said he wanted to push himself creatively beyond the boundaries of a typical car project. That decision has resulted in reactions ranging from confusion to laughter—both of which he says make him happy. Below is a short interview with the creator of Bak2Bak (via USA Today). Two Minivans, One PlatformA separate report from the Detroit Free Press dives deeper into the technical side of the build. The two donor vehicles are a 1993 Dodge Caravan and a 1991 Plymouth Grand Voyager. Both models – along with the Chrysler Town & Country – are based on the same Chrysler platform. Power comes from a stock 3.3-liter Chrysler V6 that produced 150 horsepower from the factory. Chrysler also offered Mitsubishi-sourced engines during this period, reflecting its broader partnership with the Japanese automaker, which also included the short-lived Diamond Star Motors joint venture. Given the removal of the rear passenger seating, the power-to-weight ratio likely improved. But Sutton admits the handling is far from sharp, describing it as predictably unresponsive. What truly elevates the absurdity, however, is the rear-wheel steering setup. The rear wheels on the Plymouth Grand Voyager can be turned left and right, giving Bak2Bak a crab-like swivel. The GMC Hummer EV's CrabWalk mode comes to mind, but it’s hard to compare that to piloting a twin-nosed minivan that feels like a two-player video game. The second driver, however, doesn't have gas or brake pedals. USA Today on YouTube The Questions Everyone’s AskingThat brings up perhaps the most important question: legality. According to Sutton, the vehicle is road legal, with the Dodge Caravan registered and insured. If it is indeed legal, the next question is safety. Sutton claims he has driven Bak2Bak at speeds of up to 80 mph—a feat that suggests a remarkable level of confidence in his creation. In situations where no co-pilot is present, the rear steering can be locked out using a large red switch labeled “Pull for a good time.” Beyond its obvious CatDog-like configuration, the vehicle is made even more unusual now that the Plymouth-badged Voyager is long gone, and the Dodge Caravan ended U.S. production years ago. Sutton admits the build quality isn’t perfect, but argues that imperfection is part of the appeal—saying it’s simply “good enough,” which, in this case, is precisely the point. USA Today on YouTube View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

New Subaru Solterra EV The recently revealed 2026 Subaru Solterra electric SUV is a marked improvement over the outgoing car. The new Solterra, while still equipped with the dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, now boasts a new 74.7 kWh battery that pushes its EPA-estimated range up to 288 miles from the 227 miles of the outgoing model. It also gets Tesla Supercharger compatibility with a new NACS charging port, and Subaru hasn’t even raised prices, with the 2026 car still starting at $38,495. The bigger news, however, is the updated Toyota-sourced powertrain, with 338 horsepower and 323 lb-ft of torque on tap, up from 215 hp and 249 lb-ft, and a claimed 0-60 mph time of ‘less than five seconds’. It was only a matter of time till someone put this to the test. Fastest Accelerating Subaru Ever?When the rubber hit the road, the Solterra came out on top and is now the quickest Subaru ever tested by Car and Driver, beating out the likes of the BRZ tS and even the WRX STI S209 and its 341-hp turbocharged engine in the 0 to 60 mph dash. The Subaru Solterra Touring XT put on test completed the sprint in 4.3 seconds, beating out the 2019 STI S207 by a tenth of a second. The BRZ tS posted a time of 5.5 seconds when tested. The WRX STI S209 was, however, still quicker to 100 mph, getting to triple digits in 11.2 seconds, while the Solterra took 11.8 seconds. The BRZ tS hit the ton in 13.7 seconds. Subaru View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article In the quarter-mile standings, the BRZ tS crossed the line in 14 seconds with a terminal speed of 101 mph, while both the Solterra and STI S209 completed the distance in 13 seconds. It was a tough battle, though, with the Solterra and its instantaneous torque getting the jump off the line, but ultimately being held back by its electronically-limited 101 mph top speed, which allowed the WRX to just about catch up at the finish. Subaru Faster Subaru Electrics in the PipelineWith the Japanese brand having hinted at a possible return for performance-inclined STI models, the 2026 Subaru Solterra may not hold this record for very long. The upcoming Uncharted EV is the most apparent threat, being smaller and lighter than the Solterra, but equipped with the same powertrain. View the full article

Wayno’s BOOTY awards for 2025 That’s right, folks. It’s Booty time. Welcome to my bikes of the year. As you know by now, these are my picks of the bikes I’ve reviewed this year. The ones I’ve had my backside on. This year, I’ve gone a step further than previous years, and I’ve broken it […] The post Wayno’s BOOTY awards for 2025 appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

Here’s a video showing you everything that has to happen to plan and prepare to chop an all original 1932 Ford Tudor Sedan. There is a lot of measuring and taping and measuring and measuring and marking and staring and measuring and staring, and measuring, before any of the cutting starts. Check it out in the video below, and if you missed the first episode on this epic machine, use the link below. This 1932 Ford Tudor Sedan is an amazing survivor. It is completely stock and untouched and has spent the last few decades stored in a storage container in Canada. It recently got shipped all the way to Australia to Bennett’s Customs where it is getting a 48 hour hot rod transformation, and it might even get chopped which is going to piss some folks off I’m sure. But you know what? It’s not ours, so if the guy who owns it wants to chop it then I say chop away! CLICK HERE TO SEE THE FIRST EPISODE IN THE SERIES ON THIS ALL ORIGINAL 1932 FORD TUDOR SEDAN Video Description: In this episode, we start the chop on an untouched original 1932 Ford Tudor. We remove over 100-year-old wood, lay out the cuts, scribe the lines, and decide how much of the roof to take off. This all-steel, original ’32 Ford has people saying “don’t chop it!” – but we’re doing it anyway. Follow along as we kick off this classic hot rod build. The post How to Prep an All-Original 1932 Ford to Chop – Haters Welcome, Cause This Thing Has Been Untouched For 93 Years! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

I remember the first time Freiburger said we needed to Comet wash a car. We hadn’t started CarJunkieTV yet, but it wasn’t long beforehand. During the next two years I’d Comet wash several cars, trucks, vans, and more with and without him. I had never heard the term before we met, but have used many a cardboard container of Comet to was my old junk and bring out the best in the patina. If you aren’t familiar with Comet washing, you will be after this video but the basics are that you use a good wet sponge and water, along with a lot of Comet sprinkling, to wash/scrub/buff the oxidized layers off the top of an old paint job. It does a great job at also diminishing surface rust, but not in a way that is going to make it all shiny fresh steel. Think of it as a way to smooth old paint out. If you run your hand across the hood of a really heavily patinad hood, roof, or decklid, it’s got some grit to it. Using Comet to wash it will take a lot of that grit away and make for a much smoother and more uniform finish. It does not make a patina paint job “shiny”, it does not protect it more, it’s just to give it a good wash and make it look more consistent. Check out the video below and see what Freiburger’s tips and tricks are, along with some testing of other common cleaning products to see how they compare to Comet. I’ve tried a few others as well, and I can tell you that in my opinion Comet offers the best flexibility. It also does wonders on pitted and slightly rusted chrome. Video Description: It’s the legendary Freiburger Comet Wash! I didn’t invent it, but may have mainstreamed it—and it’s a big YouTube search term so I figured I should get in on the action with the definitive guide to improving old car paint with Comet. I’ll do a head-to-head shootout with other cleansers including Ajax and CLR, plus show you examples of how to do it using a number of my project cars. The post Patina Paint Tech: The Famed FREIBURGER COMET WASH, Plus Testing Other Cleaners With Before And After Tests! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

I know that a lot of YouTubers get gifts and stuff from fans and viewers all the time, and many of them do videos where they are opening mail and packages from them. But when it’s Christmas time, there is a different vibe to it for sure. So in the video below you’ll find Derek Bieri and his lovely wife Jessica opening gifts from their fans this Christmas. Take a look, enjoy what they have gotten, and their reactions. It’s great to see the joy someone gets from a gift you give, and I’m sure the folks that sent them things will feel it when watching this one. The post Christmas With Vice Grip Garage! – Derek and Jessica Open Gifts From Fans On This Holiday Special! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article