For high-value targets that aren't willing to be seen in the X5 Security, BMW has decided to fortify its 5-series to Security spec in both 530i and 550i trim.
The 5er gets many of the same technologies originally found in its SUV counterpart and meets VR4 ballistic protection standards, staving off .44-caliber bullets at firing angles of 45- to 90-degrees.
In order to meet VR4 levels of protection, 22 mm-thick glass is fitted all around, along with Aramid fiber mats (think bulletproof protection for your feet), an explosion-resistant reinforced underbelly, intercom and camera system.
Power is provided by either a 367 hp, 4.8-liter V8 that can hit 60 in 6.5 seconds or a 272 hp, 3.0-liter inline-six that can run to the magic mark in 7.5 seconds.
BMW builds all its Security models in house, with availability in select dealerships through Africa, Latin America, the Middle-East and South-East Asia.
Much has been written about the one-off Ferrari created by Pininfarina for wealthy car collector James Glickenhaus. Named the P4/5 after the famous Ferrari racing machines from the 1960s, this Enzo-based bespoke supercar is a modern day legend not just because it's gorgeous, rare and powerful, but also because Glickenhaus believes it should be driven. He doesn't just show it at parties attended by the rich and famous, he drives it up the hill atGoodwood. Rumor has it the P4/5 already has 6,000 miles on the odo. Glickenhaus is, therefore, our kind of man, so we were very much interested in this new video vignette that popped up on him and his car.
It's produced by Brad Farrell, owner and operator of Kilnjox Media, who hopes to make more short documentaries on various car nuts in the Northeast who "get it" like Glickenhaus does. This one's the first and if reaction to it is positive enough, more will come with a possible cable series in the works. Check out the video after the jump and let us know your reaction in the comments.
While sales of the Dodge Viper may be down, Chrysler President Jim Press insists that buyers have been lining up to buy the entire operation. Among those potentially interested are American powerhouses Roush and Saleen. The latter, it's worth noting, is already involved in making the Viper, painting the cars off the assembly line. Whatever company ends up buying the Viper operation, Chrysler expects to make anywhere from $50 million to three times that before it vacates its Conner Avenue plant by the end of 2011, and has hired financial firm Lazard Limited to handle the sale.
Potentially of equal interest will be the opportunity, as Press sees it, to expand the Viper line-up. We're not sure what else you could make on the V10 sportscar platform, considering that convertible, coupe and hard-core track-day versions are already in line-up. But we'd sure be interested to find out.
;)
;)
;)