Tuesday, July 16, 2013

The God Of Football


Lionel Messi was born Luis Lionel Andres Messi on June 24, 1987, in Rosario, Argentina.At the age of 8, he was recruited to join the youth system of Newell's Old Boys, a Rosario-based club.Messi was eventually suffering from a hormone deficiency that restricted his growth.


Messi's parents decided on a regimen of nightly growth-hormone injections for their son, though it soon proved impossible to pay several hundred dollars per month for the medication. So, at the age of 13, when Messi was offered the chance to train at soccer powerhouse FC Barcelona's youth academy, La Masia, and have his medical bills covered by the team.



Messi moved quickly through the junior system ranks, and by the age of 16, he had made his first appearance for Barcelona. Messi put himself in the record books on May 1, 2005, as the youngest player to ever score a goal for the franchise. That same year, he led Argentina to the title in the under-20 World Cup, scoring on a pair of penalty kicks to propel the team over Nigeria.


Messi eventually grew to 5 feet and 7 inches, and with his short stature, speed and relentless attacking style, he drew comparisons to another famous Argentinean footballer: Diego Maradona. Messi steered Barcelona to a wealth of success, most notably in 2009, when the left-footer's team captured the Champions League, La Liga, and Spanish Super Cup titles. That same year, after two consecutive runner-up finishes, he took home his first FIFA "World Player of the Year" honor/Ballon d'Or award.Leading Barcelona to La Liga and Spanish Super Cup championships in 2010 and 2011, as well as the '11 Champions League title.


Messi embarked on an all-out assault on the record books in 2012. He became the first player to score five goals in a Champions League match in early March, and a few weeks later he surpassed Cesar Rodriguez's club-record 232 goals to become Barcelona's all-time leading scorer. By the end of 2012, Messi had accumulated an astounding 91 goals in club and international play.


He is a living legend with 4 Ballon d'Ors & 2 golden boots just at the age of 26...Haters Keeping Hating.

Sunday, July 14, 2013

Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4


 Aventador is Lamborghini's technology- and performance-packed flagship. Stupefyingly quick, aggressively angular and awe-inspiring in a deeply primal way, it's also more comfortable and refined than its feral predecessors.


 Aventador's operatic and absurdly potent V12. Displacing 6.5 liters and boasting a lofty 8500 redline, this beast of a motor makes 691 horsepower and 509 lb-ft of torque at 5,500 rpm.When you couple that much power with the car's Haldex all-wheel-drive system, what you get is a zero-to-62 mph time of just 2.9 seconds and a top speed of 217 mph.The first, a start-stop system that shuts down the engine to save fuel at traffic lights or in stop-and-go traffic, is a supercapacitor-based system that's both lighter and faster to restart the motor than a traditional battery-based system. The second is a cylinder deactivation system that shuts down half of the V12's cylinders during light-throttle situations, temporarily turning the motor into a straight-six. When the driver lays into the throttle, the other six cylinders fire back up for full power.mileage of the inherently thirsty V12 - fuel economy is rated at 11 mpg in the city and 18 mpg on the highway.



In the hands of its driver, the Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 is a high-precision machine – spontaneous, direct and always reliable. The driver is also assisted by the latest electronic systems such as the incredibly sporty, adjustable ESP system. When it comes to passive safety, front, head-thorax and knee airbags play their part alongside the extremely stiff carbon-fiber cell.


 Shifting duties are handled by a seven-speed single-clutch automated manual gearbox that Lamborghini refers to as a robotized Independent Shifting Rods (ISR) transmission. Capable of blasting from gear to gear in just 50 milliseconds.Helping transfer all 691 horsepower to the ground at all four corners are two different tires and wheel sizes - 255/35/R19 for front wheels and tires, with massive 335/30R20 wheels and tires for the rear. Stopping the big Lambo are 400x38m six-piston carbon ceramic brakes in the front, and 380x38mm carbon ceramic brakes in the rear.

Ferarri 599 GTO


The 599 GTO is reserved for just 599 clients who seek the maximum expression of high-performance driving.the GTO's 6.0-liter V-12 is "about 90 percent of the 599XX's engine."


Internal friction was reduced by 12 percent compared to the GTB. Besides adopting the 599XX's crankshaft and intake system, the GTO V-12 has new connecting rods and pistons, raised 11.9:1 compression and the 599XX's lighter (and 8-decibel louder) exhaust—with catalytic converters, of course. The result is 661 bhp at 8250 rpm and 458 lb.-ft. of torque at 6500 rpm, which make the 599 GTO the most powerful road-going Ferrari ever.The 599 GTO can also perform multiple downshifts.


 Internal friction was reduced by 12 percent compared to the GTB. Besides adopting the 599XX's crankshaft and intake system, the GTO V-12 has new connecting rods and pistons, raised 11.9:1 compression and the 599XX's lighter (and 8-decibel louder) exhaust—with catalytic converters, of course. The result is 661 bhp at 8250 rpm and 458 lb.-ft. of torque at 6500 rpm, which make the 599 GTO the most powerful road-going Ferrari ever.The 599 GTO can also perform multiple downshifts.



 GTO include quicker steering, stiffer springs, a larger rear anti-roll bar and second-generation magnetorheological shock absorbers. But possibly the biggest difference are the 40-mm wider front tires, now up to 285/30ZR-20, versus the rears which have only increased in width by 10 mm, to 315/35ZR-20. The Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires, with a compound developed specifically for the 599 GTO, also do their part.

Saturday, July 13, 2013

Mercedes Benz SLS AMG


Additionally, Mercedes has created a hard-core, 622 horsepower variant called the SLS AMG for truly performance-focused drivers.Underneath its elongated hood, the SLS AMG features a 6.2-liter V8 that's incredibly responsive in addition to being one of the more operatic engines currently in production.For the new model year, Mercedes has tweaked the engine for an additional 20 horsepower, bringing the total up to 583 horsepower at 6800 rpm. Torque remains at 479 lb-ft at 4750 rpm.


A three-spoke flat-bottomed steering wheel finished in perforated nappa leather and four turbine-inspired air vents lend the cabin a bit of unique flair.The standard sound system is a six-speaker, 100-watt AM/FM/CD/DVD setup, but audiophiles will want to opt for the available 1,000-watt Bang & Olufsen upgrade unit with 11 speakers - including 250-watt subwoofers on the parcel shelves and two illuminated 50-watt tweeters on the dash. With six cubic feet of trunk space, the SLS AMG has enough room for a weekend getaway's worth of luggage.


All of that power is sent to the rear wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transaxle.The SLS AMG is fitted as standard with vented and grooved disc brakes with six-piston front and four-piston rear calipers. Available as an option are enormous carbon ceramic brakes with rotors that measure 15.8 inches up front and 14.2 inches at the rear.Aside from steel A-pillars and a carbon-fiber driveshaft, the SLS AMG is constructed entirely from aluminum in the interest of weight savings.

BMW M-6


The BMW M6 is a high-performance version of the 6 Series coupe/convertible, designed by the motorsport division of BMW.The M6 was critically acclaimed throughout its lifespan for its elegant, aggressive "shark-nose" styling, its luxury equipment, and its performance. A top speed of 255 km/h (158 mph) makes the
European version the second fastest BMW.




The E24 M6 was fitted with the catalyzed S38B35 motor, producing 191 kW (256 bhp) and 329 N·m (243 lbf·ft) of torque. The non-catalyzed version produced 213 kW (286 bhp) and 340 N·m (251 lb·ft) of torque.The M6 achieved 0–97 km/h (0–60 mph) time of 6.0 and 6.8 seconds for the European and American versions, respectively.

Monday, January 21, 2013

2012 MINI Cooper S Roadster (Review)


It seems as though the brand is experimenting with gene-splicing in order to multiply the number of different models in their lineup. There are now seven Cooper models to choose from.The 2012 MINI Cooper S Roadster is one of the family’s two droptops, yet it’s not just a two-seater version of the Cooper Convertible.


The 2012 MINI Cooper S Roadster adopts the CoupĂ©’s shape, but replaces the huge glass hatch with a conventional trunk. It shares the Cooper hatch’s wheelbase, length and width as well, but somehow looks much smaller. Inside, claustrophobics be warned: While available space is pretty similar, less glass and a lower roofline will make you feel encapsulated. Needless to say, rearward visibility is not great, just like in the Convertible.



The 2012 MINI Cooper S Roadster can also go fast. Its turbocharged 1.6L 4-cylinder spits out 181 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque and sounds like a Chihuahua with rabies. With the standard 6-speed manual, it can zip to 100 km/h in 7.2 seconds.While the Cooper S Roadster is a hoot to drive, when you’re into more relaxed driving, the car isn’t; it always pushes you to punch the throttle to feel that extra burst of speed, and the ride is stiff over less-than-smooth roads. At 100 km/h, the engine spins at 2,500 rpm and fills the cabin with a fair amount of noise.



The 2012 MINI Cooper S Roadster can also go fast. Its turbocharged 1.6L 4-cylinder spits out 181 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque and sounds like a Chihuahua with rabies. With the standard 6-speed manual, it can zip to 100 km/h in 7.2 seconds.While the Cooper S Roadster is a hoot to drive, when you’re into more relaxed driving, the car isn’t; it always pushes you to punch the throttle to feel that extra burst of speed, and the ride is stiff over less-than-smooth roads. At 100 km/h, the engine spins at 2,500 rpm and fills the cabin with a fair amount of noise.

2013 Lexus ES 350: (Review)



The 2013 Lexus ES 350 has comfy leather furniture, too; like, really, really comfy. The seats here are heated, chilled, and so aromatic they leave their scent on your clothing.Add your favourite tunes to the sofa experience via a set of high-end headphones (or the 2013 Lexus ES 350 experience via the Mark Levinson stereo), and you’re on your way to the ultimate in tranquil isolation.




On smooth pavement, the ride in the 2013 Lexus ES 350 is whisper quiet and soft, with a touch of firmness around the edges. It’s gentle and forgiving, but doesn't make you feel like you’re riding along on a glob of Cool Whip. Only the soft hum of spinning tires and the occasional lick of wind disturbs the experience of being disconnected from everything around you -- though some rougher roads do invade the cabin.





A 3.5L V6 sends the better part of 270 horsepower to the front wheels. The 2013 Lexus ES 350 hauls along aptly, and torque-steer scarcely presents itself as anything more than a slight tightening of the steering wheel.Combined fuel mileage over the course of my 1,800 kilometre test, including plenty of highway cruising at a good clip, landed at an appreciable 8.5L/100km.





Unleashed at full throttle, the engine makes a pleasingly powerful, but tastefully restrained sound as the power comes on hard towards redline. Highway passing can be handled confidently, especially with “SPORT” mode engaged for sharper (and quicker responding) throttle pedal inputs.

2012 Mazda MX-5 SV (Review)

The 2012 Mazda MX-5 SV is a base $29,145 GX that’s been given heated leather seating, alloy pedals, 17” gun-metal wheels, auto A/C and a Brilliant Black power retractable hard-top (PRHT). At $33,995, it’s not a bad deal but if you ask me, the money is spent on the wrong stuff.


The SV is a “show car” version of the MX-5, but it maintains all of the important ingredients that make the Miata great. The SV still sports the same nimble and agile chassis, responsive and quick steering, and peppy little engine.




Power is nothing without control (thank you, Pirelli). This is where the MX-5 could school most other so-called sports cars. The light-weight and rigid structure of the car is never overwhelmed by the power which is what makes the 2012 Mazda MX-5 so tractable. The 4-wheel disc brakes, although modest in size, are never strained. Pedal feel is good and easy to modulate. Steering, as I’ve noted, is direct and provides turn-in that was second to none in its price range (see 2013 Scion FR-S). The way all of the car’s mechanicals come together make the driver’s job impossibly rewarding.



The 2012 Mazda MX-5’s ride is good -- well, was good. The SV’s basic suspension setup is too soft for any type of real performance driving. I found out firsthand during our recently completed compact performance car comparo 2.0 that the car handles with finesse, however, it’s that level of on-the-road comfort that makes for a car that “suffers” from exaggerated weight transfers and body roll on the track. Let’s be clear: exaggerated for an MX-5, not for a 2001 Buick Century

2013 Mazda CX-5 GT:Review



Mazda has a gift that more often than not, provides consumers what they want; even if they did not know they had a hankering for it. Case in point: the Mazda MX-5. No one saw that one coming and for the last 20+ years, I've wanted one.The very popular Mazda3 is an example of Mazda providing the car buying public with a little bit of everything; it looks good, drives great, and is reasonably economical and affordable.



The 2013 Mazda CX-5 is another grand slam touchdown for Mazda. What consumers have been asking for is a compact family mover that's got style and dislikes fuel. Mazda has delivered. The new CX-5 is cute like a French bulldog all the while avoiding looking like a teenager's first car. By far, Mazda's newest crossover has the best integrated front family smirk-fascia of the entire line-up. What makes the CX-5 appealing are its rising beltline and short front and rear overhangs; it's a modern-day hit! 


This technology is being touted to the world as the "future now." It represents a mix of weight-saving materials and the latest hi-tech wizardry for engines and transmissions The CX-5 and 3 are the first two products from Mazda to sport SKYACTIV-G engines. The CX-5's only offered mill is a 155-hp 2.0L 4-pot. Although low on power on paper, SKYACTIV reduces weight and friction and increases compression and efficiency, essentially allowing more of the engine's 150 torques and horses to make it the wheels. 


With a starting price of $22,995, the vehicle's got the necessary arguments to make it on the shopping list. A similarly equipped Kia Sportage is a grand less and a FWD Honda CR-V LX (only available with a 5-speed autobox) goes for $25,990. Of the three, I can tell you that the Honda is neither my 1st or 2nd choice. The 2013 Mazda CX-5 is a proper contender in this segment and deserves all the attention it is getting. 

Sunday, January 20, 2013

2013 Audi Q3 (Review)




Sold only as a 5-passenger 4-door hatchback, the 2013 Audi Q3 would be smaller than any other premium-compact SUV on the American market except the Mini Countryman. Against the Q5, it stands 9.6 inches shorter, 2.7 inches narrower and nearly 2 inches lower on an 8.1-inch trimmer wheelbase. It’s also several hundred pounds lighter, thanks to its smaller size, as well as extensive use of structural high-strength steel and a hood and liftgate made of aluminum.




After testing a Q3, Britain’s Autocar magazine noted that “You need to be careful where you use Efficiency mode...On our test route, the associated absence of any engine braking wasn’t always helpful on twisting descents,” which would require using the brakes more. On the highway, however, “for drivers who like to read the road as far ahead as possible and avoid unnecessary braking, [the Efficiency setting] would probably make for a worthwhile fuel-economy boost.” It’s another example of how tightening fuel-economy and emissions standards are forcing automakers to adopt all sorts of efficiency enhancers, even yesteryear solutions like freewheeling.




Q3 launches in Europe with a quartet of 2.0-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged engines, two gas and two diesel. These, too, are familiar VW/Audi fare, though the U.S. has yet to see their Euro-standard fuel-saving engine idle-stop system. The base-tune gas engine makes 170 horsepower, its diesel counterpart 140. Both are sold only with front-wheel drive and a 6-speed manual transmission.