AC Schnitzer Tries to Sport Up the New BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo

The new BMW 5-Series GT a.k.a. the Gran Turismo hasn't received the most flattering reviews for its looks from the press and bimmer fans alike, but famed German tuner AC Schnizter is attempting to change all that with the release of a new sport package that contains both cosmetic and mechanical goodies for the Bavarian automaker's luxury crossover.

The styling kit bundles a new front apron, bonnet air vents, side skirts, tail light trim, a rear apron with an integrated diffuser, chrome tail pipes and a wraparound boot lid spoiler plus a variety of alloy wheels in sizes from 19- to 22-inches.

Inside, AC Schnitzer offerings are limited to a unique aluminum cover for the i-Drive controller, special floor mats and an aluminum foot res and pedal set.

For the time being, the only available performance kit is for the 530d and its 3.0-liter straight-six turbo diesel unit that gets bumped from 245HP to 286 horsepower. The tuner's package for the diesel model is complemented by a new engine cover and a sports spring kit.

2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster Revealed in Patent Designs

It's no secret that Mercedes-Benz is preparing a roadster version of its new SLS AMG 'Gullwing' and while we've already shown you spy photos of camouflaged prototypes in the past, these 'ghost' images from the design patents filed for the car, reveal the drop-top supercar in almost every detail.

The chief differences between the two SLS AMG variants concern the retractable soft-top and, judging by the position of the door handles, the conventionally opening doors of the Roadster model - even though there's a possibility Mercedes may use scissor-type doors like those found on the older McLaren SLR roadster.

Expected to make its world premiere during the 2010/2011 auto show season and go on sale late next year, the SLS AMG Roadster won't differ mechanically from its coupe sibling featuring the same 6.3-litre V8 with 571HP and 650Nm (479 lb-ft) of torque.

As with the 'Gullwing', power will be delivered to the rear wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. However, the extra weight from the body strengthening might add a tenth or two to its test times.

It's far too early to know details about pricing but as is common with these types of cars, the Roadster model will probably cost a bit more than the 'Gullwing' version of the SLS AMG.

Hat tip to 'Carrea4' for the photos!

Family Ties: Audi Owner Rebadges TT Coupe as a Volkswagen

At a first glance, few would guess that the first generation Audi TT shares a platform, engine and most of its mechanics with parent company Volkswagen's Golf as well as the VW Jetta, New Beetle, Seat Leon, Skoda Octavia etc., etc.

Call it down right honesty, call it stupid, you know, call it whatever, but the owner of this 2000 model year Audi TT Coupe, which is up for sale on eBay, had no problem at all replacing Ingolstadt's four-ring logos with the VW badge. He even went as far as adding a couple of VW emblems on the seats.

"I just added Volkswagen logos around to make it look different, since they are the same company," said the eBay with a sincerity that could do with a good a dose of self-irony. More pics for your enjoyment after the jump.

Kudos to Marcus for the tip! , Link: eBay