Pirelli World Challenge is the best racing you have never seen

On Sunday, September 13th of this year, the best racing in the western hemisphere concluded its season at nearby Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca but few actually witnessed it. Why is it so good? Because the Pirelli World Challenge GT cars are closely related to what is sold to the public, it is a 50 minute sprint, and the action is fierce. The short race duration means it is easy to follow without a
scoreboard, there is no pit stop, driver change or fueling strategy. It is intense and spectator friendly.

The problem is awareness, competition from another series, lack of a timely broadcasts on a major network and overall malaise regarding auto racing in the US. Imagine seeing your favorite exotic and performance cars racing neck and neck in a big group of twists and turns. These are not overweight, under-tired, under-braked special construction cars that go around in circles with no relation
whatsoever to what is on the street.

This series features raced prepped models such as: Ferrari 458, Porsche GT3, McLaren 650S, Mercedes SLS, Audi R8, Bentley Continental, Nissan GT-R, Aston Martin Vantage, Dodge Viper, Lamborghini Gallardo, BMW Z4, Cadillac ATS-V* and Acura TLX*. The last two are notable because of the extreme modifications to allow them to participate and be competitive. The ATS-V is essentially a purpose-built race car with the engine relocated much further back in the chassis. Same with the Acura but all wheel drive is added. So neither translates well at all to the street version, but manufacturer involvement is always good and the racing is close.

For some reason there are no privateers racing Corvettes unlike past years. The base LT1 engine would need modifying and the Z06 LT4 engine is unsuitable for motorsport circuit racing because it is supercharged. Next year will likely see the Lamborghini Huracan making an appearance. And soon the Ferrari 488 GTB will show up as well, but detuned like the McLaren, down to roughly 550hp to
keep parity. Parity is always a topic of debate, the desire to keep the racing close yet still let the cars do the talking. Since the Viper,  McLaren, Ferrari are all over 600hp stock now, and Porsche has had 600hp-plus production engines, it would be a good time to let the cars run at stock power levels instead of de-tuned.

The series had multiple support races occurring over the weekend as well as some vendor booths for the fans that always have some really cool clothes, memorabilia, artwork and more. The Maserati Trofeo race sounds and looks great, but isn’t the fastest. Unfortunately the Pirelli World Challenge (PWC) series is diluted with multiple, slower classes that make tracking and caring about the results too complicated. GTS, GTA, TC, TCA, TCB etc. is just too much. Granted amateurs should be recognized as well as the pros, but this many classes just makes for a big, “Who cares?” Most fans just want to know the finish order, not what classes did what. It was purer when it was just GT and Touring Car only.

The final race was an exciting one, with hard charger Olivier Beretta moving up from 12th in his Ferrari 458 GT3 challenging Johnny O’Connell in the factory Cadillac ATS-VR GT3 for 3rd place with 10 laps to go. A bad pass attempt by Beretta spun them both, and a drive-through penalty still had Beretta ahead of O’Connell for the series championship but unfortunately contact with the wall 4 laps before the finish gave the championship O’Connell and Cadillac, their 4th consecutive one. Just shows what a great race car Cadillac built and what a great race car driver Johnny O’Connell is. Even if you scoff at a factory effort, special construction car competing against the exotics, it is still a notable accomplishment.

Next year Nissan will be involved with the GT-R (one of the taller race cars), the aforementioned Ferrari and Lamborghini will appear as well as the Mercedes AMG GT. The Pirelli World Challenge series will be in the Bay Area twice in 2016. First at Sonoma Raceway the weekend of September 17th & 18th and back at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca October 8th & 9th. Don’t miss it this time!

Album pics: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.983483338423044.1073741899.378354382269279&type=1&l=b3d71b5fec

The Audi Sportscar Experience scores 100 points in Sonoma County

Published April, 2014.

At the Audi Sportscar Experience, you learn, laugh and drive on a famous race track at a gorgeous setting with instructors who are professional race car drivers. This is program teaches vehicle control in Audi’s superb performance cars with driving exercises and track time on the fun and challenging Sonoma Raceway, formerly known as Infineon Raceway and Sears Point.

The cars used in the exercises and on the track are the TTS coupe, the S5 coupe and S4 sedan. The nimble TTS is rated at 265 horsepower and the S4 and S5 are both 333 horsepower.
The beauty of using Audis, besides being a factory program, is the predictable handling, the safety factor of all-wheel drive, and the immediate comfort and brilliant layout of controls. You get a nice taste of speed without the distraction of excessive horsepower. The cars are fast, but not at the scary level of “holy cow!” where time for acclimation is needed. Since not everyone can drive a manual, let
alone heel-toe downshifting, the 7-speed dual clutch automated transmissions can either be left in auto mode or paddle shifted for a more engaging experience.

First class accommodations greet the attendees with a continental breakfast and lounge right on the hillside between turns one and two. A “chalk talk” starts the activities with an overview of the vehicle and a discussion of safety. With a participant to instructor ratio of 4 to 1 with two occupants per car with a two-way radio for instructions, it is a very personalized learning experience with plenty of helpful repetition for learning.

One group drives a slalom course with cones and a braking zone in the TTS’s while the other does a braking, turn-in and corner exit exercise in the S4 and S5. These are especially critical to the curvy Sonoma Raceway. With multiple instructors utilized for each exercise, feedback is detailed and extremely helpful with repeated runs for each driver. The brake/turn/corner exercise was done following an instructor who set a fast pace while instructors standing nearby observe from the outside. Instructors were primarily driving 450hp RS5 coupes.

Following a short break, it was time for the much awaited track session. Steep hills, frequent high-g turns and blind apexes make it for a laughter inducing joy-ride as a passenger and a seriously awesome driving experience. The track is tight with frequent turns and minimal straights. It is a driver’s track and makes you appreciate the extreme concentration yet absurdity of racing multiple cars on it. The fact that the Audi’s “handled” it so well is a testament to the engineering of them.

Lunch was a brief shuttle ride in the Audi S8 and S7 flagship sedans to the nearby Ram’s Gate winery was a gourmet treat. Between servings of the scrumptious food, we shared stories with fellow attendees from all over the US and Canada. Some were on a motorcycle trip, a couple
on a wine tasting trip (hint ladies – bribe your man with this day at the track), a guys trip to wine country and others. The instructors including Greg Liefooghe, Matt Bell and lead instructor Jeff Sakowicz talked racing as well.

After lunch it is back to the track so that each participant is able to drive each model at speed. The instructors know the track so well that they critique using their mirrors while setting a tire-squealing and sometimes rear end rotating pace for the followers. It is very impressive, indeed. Talking with your co-driver/passenger also contributes to the observation and learning process. Turn 6, also known
as, “the carousel” was the author’s favorite. It is a fast, long, downhill left-hand turn that pushes the car to its limits with a drifting full throttle exit.

After a very full 6.5 hours, we conclude with a Q&A session, a survey, a certificate of completion and Audi Sportscar Experience hats passed out. Audi has this dialed in perfectly. It is an ideal destination location, excellent cars and top-notch instruction. This Audi Sport program is only $1,195. Put it in your vacation budget wherever you are.

Not only is track time in the sport models available, but so is an off-track driving experience for scenic drives in Sonoma county with instruction and photo opportunities. For those seeking higher speeds, more detailed instruction and skill development; a multi-level R8 program is offered. Past experience in the R8 V8 has proven it to be a wonderful every-day exotic with neutral and forgiving manners combined with extreme capabilities accompanied by a fantastic soundtrack. No matter what you drive, the Audi experience at Sonoma Raceway should be on your driving and vacation list.

Note:  The McLaren Driving Experience has since replaced the Audi Sportscar Experience
https://simracewaydrivingschool.com/programs-experiences/mclaren-driving-experience/

Audi Q5 3.2 Test Drive and Review - Still Sublime

The 2010 Audi Q5 is another example of excellence in Audi engineering. As typical Audi, the interior is top notch. Granted most SUVs are not exactly exciting to drive so they better be easy and comfortable. This one isn’t for performance or off-road capability but rather practicality. Not too big, but just right.

Equipped with the 3.2 liter V-6 producing 270 horsepower, it’s quite adequate for daily driving and the owner reports the trip computer states 26mpg at 70-80mph cruising. Audi states a 0-60mph time of 6.7 seconds as well. It does require premium gas but you pay for what you get. I immediately think of some popular V-6s that are 3.5 liters or larger before having that horsepower mark.

It’s really about utility and the automatic rear hatch has a height adjustment for ease of closing. It also has a nice cargo cover and very well thought-out floor plan.

The 3.2 Premium Plus package includes the 2-panel Panorama sunroof, one of the most distinctive features. The rear panel is fixed but the front offers a nice large opening for fresh air. It has a perforated power sunshade as well that isn’t taut. After all, it is pretty large. What is a neat feature is the shade can be closed with the roof open so that you still get the airflow but not the sun beating down on you. There will be some flutter from the shade, however.

While reaching for my pen that fell on the side of the seat, I discovered the button for lumbar support. This one had all the great features of the A5 I reviewed including the integrated navigation, satellite radio and iPod controls in the fantastic MMI multi-media interface. One negative feedback point from the owner is the 3-D view of the navigation system is disconcerting in dense downtown areas with high-rise buildings. Take a look at the Interior Link below and click on photo #5 supplied by Audi. If you use a navigation system currently, you might relate to this complaint.

Driving the SUV…wait, Audi calls this a crossover. Well that really means it’s a lifted station wagon with more headroom and taller cargo area. The other “crossovers” like the Honda Accord (see my San Jose Auto Show article and photos) are just lifted wagons. Alright, so back to the driving impression. Typical Audi turbine-like smoothness. The 6-speed automatic works very well.

The mirrors, while large and excellent for side/rear visibility blocked my vision when turning. Then again, not everyone’s eyes are in the same place when seated. What was also noticed when turning was somewhat heavy off-center steering feel.

The ride is firm yet smooth, a common description with many premium cars. When in the market for a mid-size SUV yet desiring luxury features, the Q5, especially the V-6, offers all the benefits of a sedan, isn’t oversized and offers excellent cargo capacity. Practical, rather efficient and excellent quality.

Audi USA website, click on picture#5

http://www.audiusa.com/us/brand/en/models/q5/explore/exterior_design.html#source=http://www.audiusa.com/us/brand/en/models/q5/explore/interior_design.html&container=page

Audi A5 Review and Test Drive:

http://www.examiner.com/autos-in-san-jose/audi-a5-quattro-coupe-review-and-test-drive-sublime-perfection

Club Sportiva - an Exotic Car driving experience part 1 of 3

This is part 1 of 3 articles. Parts 2 & 3 cover the cars themselves.

What an amazing day for a car enthusiast. This is a must-do for anyone, and I stress anyone, who has ever wanted to know what it's like to drive an exotic car. Especially on some of the best roads imaginable favored by enthusiasts on two wheels and four. You must be able to drive a manual transmission and a driving academy is offered in case you don't know how. The exotic cars were the Ferrari F430, Aston Martin DB9 Volante, Audi R8, Lotus Elise, Ferrari F355 substituting for the Lamborghini Gallardo and a Porsche Cayman. http://www.clubsportiva.com/

Everyone involved made the event just about perfect. The morning started at the fascinating Club Auto Sport http://www.clubautosport.net/ facility with a continental breakfast in the Club Sportiva car condominium. The six person group size made for an intimate affair with easy introductions and smiles. The cars were all parked in the hallway outside of the condo space. There was a quick tour of the facility and overview of the vehicles along with a briefing before the staff lined them up outside and took photos of the group and then individually with each car.

I have to give kudos to Rick and his staff who were fun, professional and knowledgeable. There was never a sales pitch for membership throughout the event, just fun, informative conversation. They are an enthusiastic group and never too chatty. You can learn a lot from them. They all made sure we were well hydrated on this hot day and Rick announced several times that sunscreen was available. That is unexpected thoughtfulness for his customers, especially for this pale-skinned mutt. After all, 3 of the cars were convertibles or targa top!

About the car variety, which was excellent: 3 mid-engine V-8s, a front engine V-12, a mid-engine inline 4-cylinder (in a very light car), a rear-engined boxer 6 (horizontally opposed). Whether the car or powertrain was Italian, German, British or Japanese, the variety was excellent. They were in great condition and even the F355 with 67K miles on it was superb. When was the last time you heard of a Ferrari with that many miles on it? There were a couple of minor glitches with the cars that actually made the experience more fun. Driving on the lightly traveled, twisting mountain and coastline roads sure helped.

Take a look at listings of exotic cars for sale. Notice how there are almost all low miles and priced many tens or sometimes hundreds of thousands less than the original MSRP? The concept of Club Sportiva, either to taste, rent or share ownership is a great idea. Buyers of these cars will lose far more in depreciation and sometimes they are not driven any more frequently, so why not rent instead of buy, right? Not only that, the benefits and events add to the overall "experience". So, are you experienced?

Part 2 will cover my experience with the Aston Martin DB9 Volante, Ferrari F355 and Lotus Elise.

A clever move for Volvo?

What is every car manufacturer doing these days? Promoting fuel economy, alternative fuel or energy source in current or upcoming models. How many are looking into expanding into a performance oriented market? Very few are doing so. However, Volvo seems to be doing just that.

A small manufacturer like Volvo, while innovative in certain areas such as safety, and under the cloud of sale by parent company Ford, http://www.businessinsider.com/ford-taking-steep-loss-as-it-trys-to-sell-volvo-2009-3 hasn't gotten the press of Honda, Toyota, Tesla and Chevrolet with the Volt. But what about a NEW market segment for them while they continue along with alternative fuels and powertrains like everyone else? Performance!

Despite a miserable showing by Volvo race cars in Speed GT a few years ago, why not partner with last year's championship winning K-Pax race team with no financial investment (technical data can be free), and see what they can do for the brand. If it fails again, no big deal right? It's a segment Volvo never had foothold in anyway. If it succeeds, great! No investment, it got the attention of the enthusiasts and opens the door for future programs and more sales.

There is no question the guys and girls with high powered sports cars in their garages, or sporty sedans and coupes in the driveway also own a Volvo, and granted an S60-R may be included in that. Of course, we think of them as a conservative product line with safe but boring cars and SUVs. But now, if Volvo succeeds, they capture some more sales that BMW, Audi, Acura and Mercedes may have had. And, the door is open for more performance oriented models.

So while I'm sticking to my prediction of a poor showing during the racing season, the risk to Volvo is minimal. Clever, very clever. But I still say the Speed Touring class would be an ideal choice vs. the faster GT class. Photo of a racing Volvo station wagon of the past courtesy of http://www.psfk.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/08/volvo_850_btcc.jpg

Edit: The Volvos did quite well but Volvo still has virtually no performance credentials compared to the competition (Alfa, Audi, BMW, Jaguar, Mercedes).