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Archive Page Full Frankfurt Show round-up BMW Z9 super-coupe stuns Frankfurt Bentley Arnage Red Label launched Mitsubishi celebrate 25 years in the UK Toyota's line-up at the London Motor Show Daewoo concept car at the London Motor Show Daihatsu concept cars at Frankfurt Show Ford and Microsoft join forces BRIEFS
News compiled by S.O' |
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VOLKSWAGEN TAKE AIM AT MERCEDES-BENZ
Competition is hotting up in the luxury car market as BMW, Mercedes-Benz (now DaimlerChrysler) and Jaguar compete for the lucrative sales. Volkswagen wants to be a very significant part of that battle. Yes, Audi does compete, but not in large enough numbers for Ferdinand Piech's (VW boss) liking. Hence the inevitable introduction of a direct competitor with a Volkswagen badge. The Concept D above however is much more than a re-skinned Audi. It is also more than just a concept. Production begins next year in Dresden and the right-hand drive version should be here in 2001. No doubt the current S-class will be looking dated in comparison then. Mercedes-Benz can not rest on their laurels. If the production car delivers the promise of the concept then the S-class could have some very serious competition. For starters, the D1 (as the production car is rumoured to be called) will sit on a brand-new aluminium spaceframe, suspended by a new air suspension system. Add to that an interesting line-up of engines: 5.0-litre V10 turbocharged direct-injection diesel, 5.6-litre W12 (yes, W!) and a 3.7-litre W10. If this range go ahead, the D1 is bound to steal sales from the establishment. Add to that the claim that the D1 will undercut the S-class significantly and you will soon agree that the D1 looks to be a sure success. S.O' - [email protected] |
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