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Three different variants of the Mercedes SLK roadster are again offered for 2008, each with progressively more powerful engines: there's the SLK280, with a 228-horsepower, 3.0L V6; the SLK350, with a 268-horsepower, 3.5L V6; and the high-performance SLK55 AMG, with a 355-horsepower V8.
Both of the V6 models have all-aluminum engines with variable valve timing, so there's plenty of torque available..... |
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The mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive Porsche Boxster continues to be powered by a 245-horspower, 2.7L horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine for 2008, while the S model gets a stronger 295-horsepower, 3.4L flat six. Boxsters come with a five-speed manual gearbox, but if optioned with the available Sport package it has a six-speed manual; Boxster S models come with the six-speed, but either model can..... |
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The 2008 XLR and XLR-V remain Cadillac's high-end performance cars. Introduced in 2005 and using the Corvette as a point of inspiration, the XLR offers style and performance with generous amounts of leather and wood trim. It also has a softer suspension setup than many two-seaters with more than 300 horsepower, which makes it much easier to live with day in and out than many of its rivals.
The XLR..... |
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The Mercedes-Benz CLK Class is offered in three different models (CLK350, CLK550, and CLK63 AMG), and in two different body styles (coupe and convertible). The CLK350 comes with a 268-horsepower, 3.5L V6, while the CLK550 includes a 382-horsepower, 5.5L V8. The entire CLK line uses a seven-speed automatic transmission, and all CLKs have rear-wheel drive.
The CLK63 AMG convertible and CLK63 AMG Bla..... |
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Constructed mostly of aluminum, the 2008 Jaguar XK is significantly stiffer than prior generations. The 4.2L V8 engine is refined and powerful, and is mated to a six-speed sequential transmission with steering wheel paddle shifters. Underneath, the eCATS system actively adjusts the suspension to keep the ride smooth yet sporty. Traction control and dynamic stability control are standard, and the r..... |
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Porsche's family of rear-engine 911 sport cars is now available in three power levels for 2008-standard, S, and Turbo-and in three body styles-Coupe, Targa, and Cabriolet.
The standard engine on the 911 is a 325-horsepower, 3.6L horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine. S models get a 355-horsepower, 3.8L flat-six. A six-speed manual gearbox is standard, but a five-speed automatic transmission is ..... |
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BMW's performance luxury coupe and convertible 6-Series models are available in the U.S. primarily in 650i form for 2008, which includes a 360-horsepower, 4.8L V8 engine with variable valve timing and variable intake lifts and a dual exhaust system. The engine is matched to two possible transmissions: a six-speed manual transmission and, new for 2008, a six-speed sport automatic transmission with ..... |
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BMW's 3-Series has always been an exemplar of how to combine luxury and sportiness, and this continues with the 2008 versions. The 328i features BMW's exceptional 3.0L engine, which uses double-VANOS technology to steplessly adjust both the intake and exhaust timing on way to producing 230 horsepower. The 335i models are powered by a twin-turbocharged version of the same six-cylinder. This gem of ..... |
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Whether as a sedan, Avant wagon, or Cabriolet convertible-the 2008 Audi A4 is available with a choice of two direct-injection engines: a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder (designated 2.0T FSI) making 200 horsepower, and a 3.2L V6 (designated 3.2 FSI) making 255 horsepower.
The A4 sedan can be had with either front- or all-wheel drive; front-wheel-drive versions come with either a six-speed manual or..... |
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