The four hours and forty-eight minutes of Le Mans

To say conditions at this year’s Petite Le Mans at Road Atlanta were horrendous would be an understatement. And while the duel between the Audi Sport Team Joest and Team Peugeot Sport was certainly evident in qualifying, many race fans were left to wonder who might’ve come out on top if the weather had been more forgiving and the cars had been allowed to complete the entire race.

Weather for the practice laps was marked by intense heat as the thermometer topped out at 85 degrees and extremely high humidity. On Wednesday, the first day of practice, the track surface had very little grip even in the early afternoon due to heavy rains the previous day. Audi suffered two mishaps in practice on Wednesday and Thursday as both Luhr and Werner put their R15 into the weeds which necessitated a new monocoque for the number 1 car on Wednesday night.

Other than a brake problem on their number 7 car in the early going, Peugeot encountered no such issues and, in fact, was able to test both cars with a combined equivalent of close to 1,000 miles.

Qualifying

Qualifying day saw air temperatures reach 91 degrees, while the temperature of the track surface was measure at 104 degrees. At the end of the day, Peugeot had both 908 HDi FAP cars on the front row with the number 7 car on the pole ahead of the number 8 car.

Audi, meanwhile, placed both R15 TDI’s in the second row, with the number 2 car in the third spot and the number 1 car in fourth, just 28 thousands of a second behind.

Race day

Not once in 11 years has the Petite Le Mans been run in such unfavorable conditions. The warm-up session had to be delayed due to rain and the cars were forced to line up on the grid immediately after only a few warm-up laps had been completed and for Audi, it only went downhill from there.

After dominating the race in the early going (McNish and Capello led for 163 of the first 168 laps), both Peugeots were able to get by the Audi under the yellow flag when McNish spun the Audi minutes after the two hour mark. Shortly thereafter, it began to rain in earnest and race officials parked the cars in pit lane.

The rain abated and the cars returned to the track, but this time there were no position changes between Audi and Peugeot. Then the rain returned and the race was red flagged for safety reasons at the 4 hour and 48 minute mark with the cars remaining in the starting block for nearly four hours waiting for a re-start that never happened.

Final Results

Here are the final results of the 2009 Petit Le Mans:

1. (2) Stephane Sarrazin, France; Franck Montagny, Brignoles France; Peugeot 908 HDI FAP (1, P1), 184.
2. (1) Pedro Lamy, Lisbon Portugal; Nicolas Minassian, England; Peugeot 908 HDI FAP (2, P1), 184.
3. (3) Allan McNish, Scotland; Rinaldo Capello, Italy; Audi R15 TDI (3, P1), 184.
4. (4) Marco Werner, Germany; Lucas Luhr, Germany; Audi R15 TDI (4, P1), 182.
5. (6) Nicolas Lapierre, France; Romain Dumas, France; Olivier Panis, France; Oreca 01 AIM (5, P1), 181.
6. (26) David Brabham, Australia; Dario Franchitti, Scotland; Scott Sharp, Jupiter, FL; Acura ARX-02a (6, P1), 180.
7. (28) Chris Dyson, Pleasant Valley, NY; Guy Smith, England; Lola B09 86 Mazda (7, P2*), 177.
8. (22) Jaime Melo, Brazil; Pierre Kaffer, Germany; Mika Salo, Finland; Ferrari F430 GT (1, GT2), 170.
9. (16) Tom Milner, Leesburg, VA; Dirk Mueller, Germany; Joerg Mueller, Germany; BMW E92 M3 (2, GT2), 169.
10. (21) Wolf Henzler, Germany; Dirk Werner, Germany; Porsche 911 GT3 RSR (3, GT2), 169.
11. (15) Oliver Gavin, England; Olivier Beretta, Monaco; Marcel Fassler, Switzerland; Corvette C6.R (4, GT2), 169.
12. (18) Patrick Long, Oak Park, CA; Joerg Bergmeister, Germany; Marc Lieb, Germany; Porsche 911 GT3 RSR (5, GT2), 169.
13. (8) Marino Franchitti, Scotland; Butch Leitzinger, State College, PA; Lola B09 86 Mazda (1, P2), 168.
14. (19) Johnny O’Connell, Flowery Branch, GA; Jan Magnussen, Denmark; Antonio Garcia, Spain; Corvette C6.R (6, GT2), 168.
15. (25) Seth Neiman, Burlingame, CA; Darren Law, Phoenix, AZ; Johannes van Overbeek, San Francisco, CA; Porsche 911 GT3 RSR (7, GT2), 162.
16. (14) Tom Sutherland, Los Gatos, CA; Tomy Drissi, Hollywood, CA; Matt Bell, Los Altos, CA; Chevrolet Riley Corvette C6 (8, GT2), 157.
17. (7) Jon Field, Dublin, OH; Clint Field, Dublin, OH; Lola B06/10 AER (8, P1), 152.
18. (20) Ian James, England; Dominik Farnbacher, Germany; Panoz Esperante GTLM Ford (9, GT2), 152.
19. (12) Bryan Willman, Kirkland, WA; Tony Burgess, Canada; Chris McMurry, Phoenix, AZ; Lola B06/10 AER (9, P1), 144, Accident.
20. (13) David Murry, Cumming, GA; David Robertson, Ray, MI; Andrea Robertson, Ray, MI; Doran Ford GT MK 7 (10, GT2), 142.
21. (11) Luis Diaz, Mexico; Adrian Fernandez, Mexico; Acura ARX-01B (2, P2), 139.
22. (10) Klaus Graf, Germany; Sascha Maassen, Germany; Greg Pickett, Alamo, CA; Porsche RS Spyder (3, P2), 136.
23. (23) Bryan Sellers, Centerville, OH; Dominic Cicero, Portland, OR; Porsche 911 GT3 RSR (11, GT2), 136.
24. (5) Gil de Ferran, Brazil; Simon Pagenaud, France; Scott Dixon, New Zealand; Acura ARX-02a (10, P1), 136.
25. (17) Bill Auberlen, Hermosa Beach, CA; Joey Hand, Sacramento, CA; Andy Priaulx, Germany; BMW E92 M3 (12, GT2), 133.
26. (24) Joel Feinberg, Ft. Lauderdale, FL; Chris Hall, Daytona, FL; Dodge Viper Comp Coupe (13, GT2), 129.
27. (9) Jonny Cocker, UK; Robert Bell, UK; Paul Drayson, London, UK; Lola B09 60 Judd (11, P1), 123.
28. (27) Hideki Noda, Japan; Jose Manuel Balbiani, Argentina; Dion von Moltke, Coral Gables, FL; Radical SR9/AER (12, P1), 0.
29. (29) Adam Pecorari, Aston, PA; Gunnar Van der Steur, Chesapeake City, MD; Robbie Pecorari, Aston, PA; Radical SR9 AER (4, P2), 0.
30. (30) No drivers; Jaguar XK

All images courtesy of Audi of America

The obvious and not so obvious

Here at LotPro.com, we realize that it doesn’t take a genius to conclude that it’s going to cost you a bundle to insure a sports car like the Nissan GT-R, Dodge Viper or Audi R8. All three are very expensive, very fast, and attract traffic cops in much the same way that Brad and Angelina attract the paparazzi – you can’t miss them and they’re usually good for a money shot (using a radar with the former and a camera with the latter).

What is surprising is the inclusion of the Cobalt SS in the top 20, while Chevy’s big gun, the Corvette, is MIA (demographics may have something to do with it, since Cobalt buyers are younger and more prone to “mashing the foot feed”, as it were). BMW is well represented with the four models (M6, M5, M3 and X6), the most from any single manufacturer. Of the top 20, 14 are sports cars (we take exception to the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class being classified as a “passenger car” and have included it in this category), 4 are large SUV’s, the Cadillac Escalade EXT is the lone truck and, sans the aforementioned SL, the Audi S8 is the lone passenger car.

The results

Insure.com lists the Nissan GT-R at the top of the list, noting that “Owners of the GT-R buy it for power and speed, and their driving habits are often reflected in frequent and expensive insurance claims (insert here the Japanese word for ‘obviously’).” Not far behind is the Dodge Viper, followed by the BMW M6, Ford Shelby GT 500 and, rounding out the top 5, the Mercedes-Benz G-Class.

Here is the complete list of the most expensive 20:

The bottom 20 for the rest of us

Lacking a payment and insurance budget that might equal the GDP of a small third world country, the rest of us can always aim for the top least expensive vehicles to  insure.

Again, it doesn’t take a Mensa candidate to realize that this list will be populated, for the most part, by small and mid-size passenger vehicles equipped with 4 and 6-cylinder engines. Indeed, the top 5 vehicles are all Korean, with 3 Kia models and 2 from sister company Hyundai. Most of this list is comprised of various and sundry forms of family haulers with minivans (6), passenger cars (6, but really 7 if you include the Rio5 which is a hatchback) and  SUVs (5) accounting for most of the listed vehicles. The remaining two include the Scion xB (almost a minivan) and the list’s only truck, a Mazda (we’re assuming the B-Series).

The list’s biggest surprise, in more ways than one, was the venerable Lincoln Town Car, parked at number 17.

Here is the complete list of the least expensive 20:

How to save more green

Insure.com also had a number of other tips to help you save on your car insurance bill:

•    Trade higher deductibles for lower premiums – but make sure you can afford your deductible in case you crash your car

Something to talk about

There hasn’t been a lot of good news coming out of General Motors’ Renaissance Center headquarters lately. Just yesterday, the company announced that it would extend the normal two week summer closing of thirteen of its plants for up to nine weeks to help clear a backlog of unsold new cars from its dealers. So it has to be with a certain sense of relief that the marketing folks at Chevy have finally got something to talk about that has nothing to do with layoffs, plant closures and bankruptcy.

Grand Sport

Today, GM’s Chevy division announced that the Grand Sport is returning to the Corvette lineup. The announcement, made at the annual Corvette Birthday Bash held in Bowling Green, Kentucky, heralds the return of one of the most storied names in the history of the Corvette.

Back in 1962, Corvette chief engineer Zora Arkus-Duntov began a semi-secret program within General Motors’ Chevrolet division to produce as many as 125 lightweight prototype Corvettes based on the new 1963 Stingray in response to what Ford was doing with the Shelby Cobra. After assembling five of the prototypes and racing (Grand Sport #004 won an SCCA race at Watkins Glen in August) as well as testing them at Sebring in the fall of 1963, plans called for a debut at the 12-hour race in 1964.

1996 Grand Sport

Before that could happen, GM brass announced that the company would follow the 1957 AMA anti-racing resolution to the letter and the company’s involvement with NASCAR, along with everything else (including the Grand Sport) would cease. The company also ordered that the prototypes (which included three coupes as well as two convertibles – coupes whose tops were removed) be destroyed.

Fortunately, all five were hidden away at Chevrolet engineering and the three coupes were eventually campaigned by “privateer” racers such as Roger Penske and Jim Hall.

2010 Corvette Grand Sport

Although the Grand Sport moniker made a brief appearance in 1996 when a total of 1,000 were produced (810 coupes and 190 convertibles) with the LT4 engine, the latest iteration will replace the current Z51 package and promises to push the current standard Vette closer to the performance of the Z06 model.

The new Grand Sport will be available in either coupe or convertible body styles and will be offered with the current LS-3 powertrain with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. The engine will be rated at 430 horsepower and 424 lb-ft. of torque with the standard exhaust system or 436 horsepower and 428 lb.-ft. of torque with an optional two-mode exhaust system.

The list of Grand Sport features includes:

•    Wider front and rear fenders – including specific front fenders with integrated Grand Sport badges
•    Z06-style front splitter and tall rear spoiler
•    Functional brake ducts and extra cooling
•    Unique 18-inch front and 19-inch rear wheels; painted finish standard and chrome finish optional
•    Large 275/35ZR18 tires in front and 325/30ZR19 tires in the rear
•    Z06-size brakes, including 14-inch (355 mm) front rotors with six-piston calipers and 13.4-inch (340 mm) rear rotors with four-piston calipers
•    Specific manual transmission gear ratios
•    Specific rear axle ratio on automatic-equipped models

The Grand Sport can be ordered with the 1LT, 2LT, 3LT and 4LT trim packages and the coupe option also includes a removable roof. All of the Corvette’s exterior colors are offered and an available “Heritage” package, offered in four colors, adds front fender hash marks as well as two-tone seats with “Grand Sport” embroidery.

April 17, 1964

You had to be there to appreciate it. The unveiling of the new Ford Mustang at the New York World’s Fair marked a watershed moment in the car industry. Up until this day, sports cars (hey, “sporty” was real close to “sports” when you were in junior high school) were reserved for those who had a lot of money (Thunderbird, Corvette), were mechanically inclined (MG, Triumph), or both (Jaguar, Porsche, Ferrari).

Not only did the Mustang look cool, you could comfortably fit a family of four into it and the base price was just $2320.96. It was so affordable that many families became multiple Mustang households.

Early history

As we noted in previous articles, the Mustang’s early years were nothing short of phenomenal. Ford had originally gauged sales at an estimated rate of 100,000 units, annually. That figure had to be quickly revised as first-day orders came to an astounding 22,000. Ford eventually sold 417,000 Mustangs in the first 12 months and reached the million sales mark within 2 years.

The middle years were somewhat less kind. The Mustang became ever larger; even through it was based on the same platform. By the time the Falcon-based car reached its last year, overall length was up by over a foot from the original car, while its weight had increased by over half a ton.

1974 saw the introduction of the Mustang II. But while many styling cues had been carried over from the original and sales took a sharp uptick, the Mustang II, although a bit more stylish than many of its competitors at the time had become just another small, underpowered coupe.

1979 marked the beginning of the third generation Fox-based Mustangs. In size, the new Mustang closely resembled the original. Its styling, however, was based on Ford’s new “Euro” look. Sales doubled from 1978 and, once again, placed the Mustang ahead of its rival, the Chevrolet Camaro.

Fourth generation 1994-2004

Although the 1994 Mustang was still based on Ford’s Fox platform, it was an updated and re-engineered version. Mustang aficionados who had waited 15 years for a redesign weren’t disappointed. The new car borrowed several design cues from the original car. The new generation was as sleek as the old one had been boxy. The traditional “pony” logo floated in the center of the new grill with the entire front end evoking the vintage Mustang. Meanwhile, side scoops once again adorned the center of the rear quarter panel just in front of the wheel arch.

In back, the three taillamps (as on the original) on each side were split horizontally (this was changed in 1997 to the original vertical design and the individual lights were moved further apart). A steeply raked windshield and short rear deck completed the retro-themed package.

The fourth generation also marked a resurgence in fabled Mustang performance. Engine choices initially ranged from a 145 horsepower 3.8 liter V-6 to a 5.0 liter V-8 that produces 240 horsepower. By 1998, three engines were available with the V-6 now putting out 150 horsepower and the SVT Cobra 4.3 liter V-8 producing 305 horsepower.

In 1999, Ford reskinned the Mustang to reflect its “New Edge” styling. The round corners of the previous generation were replaced by more angular styling and the side scoop trim was larger and more pronounced. In back, a new fascia featured three distinct vertical rectangular taillamps on each side. The SVT Mustang Cobra was also the first Mustang with an independent rear suspension and its 4.6 liter V-8 produced 320 horsepower. 2000 also saw the first Mustang Bullitt GT, honoring the 1968 Mustang GT 390 driven by Steve McQueen in one of the most famous movie chase scenes ever filmed.

Fifth generation 2005-2009

Based on Ford’s all-new DC2 platform, the latest-generation Mustang draws even more design cues from the original – especially the 67-68 models. Retro round outboard headlights frame a center grill with a floating “pony” logo. From the side, wheel arches are more pronounced, but the side scoop is more muted – much like the original ’64. The coupe model features a rear quarter window very reminiscent of the original Shelby GT 350, while the three vertical taillamps are vintage Mustang.

In 2008, the Mustang reached a milestone as the 9 millionth Mustang – a GT convertible – was built. 2008 also marked the return of the Bullitt edition. By this time, powertrains ranged from the 4.0 liter V-6 to a 5.4 liter DOHC supercharged V8 on the GT that produced 500 horsepower in standard form and 540 horsepower for the GT 500KR (king of the road) edition. To mark the last year of the current body style in 2009, Ford offered a unique glass roof option.

2010 Redesign

The 2010 redesigned Mustang was unveiled in Los Angeles on November 18, 2008. Based on the same DC2 platform, the new design gives the pony car a much leaner appearance as well as better aerodynamics. A new headlight design includes integrated turn signals, while the hood features a prominent “powerdome”. In back, the trunk no longer has a keyhole and there is a revised 3-lens taillamp with LEDs that blink in sequence, much like earlier Thunderbird and Mercury Cougar models.

Inside, softer surfaces on the dashboard and door panels are complimented by real aluminum trim as well as fewer trim parts for the dashboard, thus ensuring a quieter ride.

Epilogue

The past 45 years have been a wild ride for the Mustang. From its initial sales success in the 1960’s, it has grown to iconic status in the automotive industry. Reflected in the history of the Mustang is much of the good and not so good that has happened to America since April of 1964.

The late sixties and early seventies saw the Mustang play an integral part of the pony car era as it took part in the horsepower wars that were staged on the main streets of many American towns.

The early seventies also saw the oil embargo as well as an increased awareness of the environment and both took their toll on the Mustang. Horsepower was strangled by emissions controls and the Mustang, itself, was downsized. As the industry began to adapt, computers aided in car design while electronics were used in engine management systems to increase horsepower while decreasing emissions at the same time.

The first Mustang to take advantage of this was the ’79 model. And as the baby boom generation continued to age, those belonging to it began to look for things in the present that reflected the best of what they remembered from the past and the Mustang was there for them, as well. It started with the retro ’94 redesign and continued through the 2005 to the new 2010 Mustang.

So from all of us here at LotPro.com, we would like to wish a very happy anniversary to the Mustang for giving us 45 very good years.

World Car, Green Car, Performance Car and Car Design of the Year

Established just six years ago, the World Car of the Year awards are announced at the awards press conference hosted by the New York International Auto Show every year. In addition to the overall World Car of the Year winner, three other categories are also included: World Performance Car, World Green Car and Car Design of the year.

Here are this year’s winners (remember, these vehicles do not necessarily have to be available or for sale in the North American market):

2009 World Car – Volkswagen Golf VI

Chosen from an initial entry list of fifty-one vehicles, the judges had this to say, “The new Golf VI employs Scirocco (a model we have yet to see here in the U.S.) styled grille and headlights and larger tail lights. However, it also feels more expensive than other family hatches, thanks to its solid build and high quality cabin. Customers get a choice of nothing less than six engines (editor’s note: these engines are all available in Europe, not necessarily the U.S.), including the punchy and efficient 158hp 1.4-litre TSI unit that features both a turbo and supercharger. The Golf is also available with the firm’s new 2.0-litre common-rail diesel motor with either 108 or 138hp. It goes without saying that choosing between the slick 6-speed manual and superb DSG twin-clutch gearbox can be difficult. Sitting on an outstanding chassis, the VW is more refined than its rivals, especially when highway cruising. Wind, road and engine noise are kept to a minimum, making the Golf a relaxing long distance companion.”

2009 World Performance Car – Nissan GT-R

The performance car must, according to the rules, “demonstrate a specific and overt sports/performance orientation.” Vehicles in this category also must meet a minimum annual production rate of 500. The jurors felt that, “The Nissan GT-R stole the headlines in the sports car world in 2008. This GT-R – the R35 – throws even former GT-Rs into the weeds via an all-new 3.6-liter bi-turbo V-8 providing 480 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque. The drive of the GT-R, especially on a track, reveals an incredibly flexible all-wheel-drive chassis that lays down the rubber whenever you request it. Acceleration to 60 mph from a stop takes just 3.5 seconds, or a tick behind fellow Performance finalist the Corvette ZR1. This is a complete effort put forth by the normally conservative Nissan and the pleasure is in doing laps of a favorite circuit and feeling the sheer capabilities of the car. For $77,000 it may be the world’s best enthusiast car.”

2009 World Green Car – Honda FCX Clarity

Unlike the other categories, vehicles in this category only needed to be available in one major market in 2008. The Clarity was chosen because, “”The FCX Clarity is an utterly real, hydrogen-fuelled luxury sedan that provides the amenities people expect in a premium car with 430 km range, fuel consumption of about 3.3 litres/100 km (72 mpg US) equivalent and zero tailpipe emissions. While there is only so much the automotive industry can do when it comes to this technology – governments need to come onboard to help create a true refueling infrastructure – Honda must be credited for taking a bold step in leasing FCX Clarity to customers in California for US$600 per month. There’s still a long way to go before fuel-cell cars will become a commercial success, but hats off to Honda for continuing to advance this expensive technology during a time when every cent counts.”

2009 World Car Design of the Year – Fiat 500

“Icon is an overused word in the automotive world, but the Fiat 500 dating from 1957 genuinely deserves the sobriquet. Revived by Fiat last year, the new Cinquecento is larger than its predecessor but still smaller than a Mini. Cheerful and cheeky, it does a brilliant job of capturing the visual appeal of the original version while meeting modern design and engineering standards. Design consultant Robert Cumberford says the new 500 “pushes the emotional hot buttons of several generations of people who might never have driven one of the early models, but who admired them on European streets. Built on the Panda platform, the 500 keeps the original’s charm, adding two more seats and all contemporary safety, anti-pollution and driving aids.” In Tom Matano’s opinion the Fiat possesses “heart-warming style. It is genuine, straightforward, without gimmicks. It is a welcome addition to a car world full of non-humanistic designs.”

Winners to be announced at the New York Auto Show

The WCOTY competition was established just six years ago and marks the culmination of the big auto shows held in the U.S. The World Car Awards are different than most of the other awards that are bestowed on manufacturers at the other shows. Unlike those given out at, for example, the North American show in Detroit, World Car nominees aren’t required to be marketed in North America. As such, many of the vehicles that appear on the list of finalists will be, if you pardon the expression, “foreign” to many U.S. enthusiasts (as well as to a few here at LotPro.com).

2009 award nominees fall into four categories: 2009 World Car, 2009 World Performance Car, 2009 World Green Car and 2009 World Car Design of the Year. Here’s how they shake out:

Ford Fiesta

2009 World Car. In order to qualify for the overall award, the vehicle had to be in production as well as available for sale on at least two continents during 2008. It also must “excel in a broad range of attributes.” The three finalists for this award are:

Ford Fiesta
Toyota iQ
Volkswagen Golf VI

Nissan GT-R

2009 World Performance Car. Unlike the overall award, the performance car must “demonstrate a specific and overt sports/performance orientation” while still satisfying the criteria of model production and availability. Vehicles in this category also must satisfy a minimum annual production rate of 500. The three finalists for this category are:

Corvette ZR1
Nissan GT-R
Porsche 911 Carrera

Honda FCX Clarity

2009 World Green Car. Unlike the other two categories, vehicles in this category only needed to be available in one major market in 2008. In addition to production models, prototypes were allowed as long as at least ten or more were released for individual or press fleet evaluations during the year. Emissions, fuel consumption and powertrain technology aimed at increasing a vehicle’s “environmental responsibility” were all taken into account during the selection process. This year’s candidates are:

Honda FCX Clarity
Mitsubishi iMiEV
Toyota iQ

Fiat 500

2009 World Car Design of the Year. Taken from the broad list of World Car candidates, a panel of four judges that included Silvia Faruffaldi, Robert Cumberford, Akira Fujimoto and Tom Matano recommended a short list to jurors who then voted on the three finalists, which are:

Citroen C5 Sedan/C5 Tourer
Fiat 500
Jaguar XF

Stay tuned, as the awards will be announced on Thursday, April 9th.

Less than auspicious start for Rahal Letterman BMW M3

Saturday’s annual running of the 12 hours of Sebring ended up being a duel between the two diesel-equipped superpowers of endurance racing, Audi and Peugeot. But while less than 23 seconds separated the first Audi R15 TDi team of McNish/Capello/Kristensen and the second Peugeot 908 HDi FAP team of Montagny/Bourdais/Sarrazin, the third place Audi R15 TDi Team of Rockenfeller/Werner/Luhr was 2 laps down while the first Peugeot team was forced to retire with 25 minutes left in the race with a gearbox failure.

Leading up to Saturday’s race, of course, was the amazing run of Indy 500 winner Scott Dixon, as he put the number 66 Acura ARX-02 of de Ferren/Pagenaud/Dixon on the pole. Unfortunately, the car retired at the eight-hour mark due to a front suspension problem. The second ARX-02, driven by Brabham/Franchitti/Sharp was running in the top 5 overall after ten hours when it, too, had to return to the garage with a transmission malfunction.

Acura was more fortunate in the LMP 2 class as Adrian Fernandez and Luis Diaz took first place as well as fourth place overall in the Acura ARX-01b.

A second straight GT1 victory was scored by Corvette Racing’s Johnny O’Connell in a Corvette C6.R, while Rizi Competizione won the GT2 class for the second time in three years in a Ferrari F430 GT. Meanwhile, the BMW M3 Rahal Letterman team suffered a number of teething problems with the No. 90 car retiring after 27 laps with an oil leak while the No. 92 car suffered a mechanical problem while leaving the pits at the five hour mark.

Here are the 2009 results:

1. (2) Allan McNish, Scotland; Rinaldo Capello, Italy; Tom Kristensen, Denmark; Audi R15 TDI (1st, P1), 383 laps.

2. (5) Franck Montagny, Brignoles France; Sebastien Bourdais, France; Stephane Sarrazin, France; Peugeot 908 HDI FAP (2nd, P1), 383 laps.

3. (4) Mike Rockenfeller, Germany; Marco Werner, Germany; Lucas Luhr, Germany; Audi R15 TDI (3rd, P1), 381 laps.

4. (7) Luis Diaz, Mexico; Adrian Fernandez, Mexico; Acura ARX-01B (1st, P2), 360 laps.

5. (3) Pedro Lamy, Lisbon Portugal; Christian Klien, Austria; Nicolas Minassian, England; Peugeot 908 HDI FAP (4th, P1), 356 laps.

6. (12) Jan Magnussen, Denmark; Antonio Garcia, Spain; Johnny O’Connell, Flowery Branch, GA; Corvette C6.R (1st, GT1), 349 laps.

7. (11) Oliver Gavin, England; Olivier Beretta, Monaco; Marcel Faessler, Switzerland; Corvette C6.R (2nd, GT1), 348 laps.

8. (27) Mika Salo, Finland; Jaime Melo, Brazil; Pierre Kaffer, Germany; Ferrari F430 GT (1st, GT2), 332 laps.

9. (15) Gianmaria Bruni, Italy; Mathias Russo, Argentina; Luis Companc, Argentina; Ferrari 430 GT (2nd, GT2), 330 laps.

10. (17) Dominik Farnbacher, Germany; Ian James, England; Panoz Esperante GTLM Ford (3rd, GT2), 329 laps.

11. (14) Joerg Bergmeister, Germany; Patrick Long, Oak Park, CA; Marc Lieb, Germany; Porsche 911 GT3 RSR (4th, GT2), 326 laps.

12. (24) Seth Neiman, Burlingame, CA; Johannes van Overbeek, San Francisco, CA; Darren Law, Phoenix, AZ; Porsche 911 GT3 RSR (5th, GT2), 326 laps.

13. (23) Nic Jonsson, Sweden; Eric van de Poele, Belgium; Tracy Krohn, Houston, TX; Ferrari F430 GT (6th, GT2), 325 laps.

14. (16) David Murry, Cumming, GA; Andrea Robertson, Ray, MI; David Robertson, Ray, MI; Doran Ford GT MK 7 (7th, GT2), 303 laps.

DNF

15. (6) David Brabham, Australia; Scott Sharp, Jupiter, FL; Dario Franchitti, Scotland; Acura ARX-02a (5th, P1), 302 laps, Drive line.

16. (13) Dirk Werner, Germany; Richard Lietz, Austria; Wolf Henzler, Germany; Porsche 911 GT3 RSR (8th, GT2), 274 laps.

17. (19) Joel Feinberg, Ft. Lauderdale, FL; Chris Hall, Daytona, FL; Ritchie Holt, Davie, FL; Dodge Viper Comp Coupe (9th, GT2), 251 laps, Clutch.

18. (1) Gil de Ferran, Brazil; Simon Pagenaud, France; Scott Dixon, New Zealand; Acura ARX-02a (6th, P1), 246 laps, Mechanical.

19. (20) Robert Bell, UK; Paul Drayson, London, UK; Jonny Cocker, UK; Aston Martin Vantage GT2 (10th, GT2), 204 laps, Engine.

20. (9) Chris McMurry, Phoenix, AZ; Tony Burgess, Canada; Bryan Willman, Kirkland, WA; Lola B06/10 AER (7th, P1), 151 laps, Electrical.

21. (10) Butch Leitzinger, State College, PA; Marino Franchitti, Scotland; Ben Devlin, England; Lola B09 86 Mazda (2nd, P2), 149 laps, Mechanical.

22. (26) Dirk Mueller, Germany; Tom Milner, Leesburg, VA; BMW E92 M3 (11th, GT2), 140 laps.

23. (8) Chris Dyson, Pleasant Valley, NY; Guy Smith, England; Andy Lally, New York, NY; Lola B09 86 Mazda (3rd, P2), 127 laps, Mechanical.

24. (22) Lou Gigliotti, Dallas, TX; Eric Curran, Easthampton, MA; Lucas Molo, Brazil; Chevrolet Riley Corvette C6 (12th, GT2), 89 laps, Mechanical.

25. (25) Clint Field, Dublin, OH; Chapman Ducote, Miami, FL; Jon Field, Dublin, OH; Lola B06/10 AER (8th, P1), 77 laps.

26. (18) Bill Auberlen, Hermosa Beach, CA; Joey Hand, Sacramento, CA; BMW E92 M3 (13th, GT2), 27 laps, Mechanical.

27. (21) Nicky Pastorelli, Netherlands; Hans Stuck, Germany; Johannes Stuck, Austria; Porsche 911 GT3 RSR (14th, GT2), 0 laps, Withdrawn.

28. (28) Richard Westbrook, England; Marc Basseng, Germany; Lance David, Germany; Porsche 911 GT3 RSR (15th, GT2), 0 laps

Kia Amanti

 Economic Concerns and “Change” Produce New Car Buying Perceptions of Total Value

Here at LotPro.com, we can remember the time when car buying decisions were based on whether you were a Ford guy, a GM (specifically Chevy, Buick, Pontiac, etc.) guy or a Chrysler guy. But let’s face it; if you can remember that far back, you are officially an “old” guy.

In today’s auto sales climate, quality and the perception of that quality have become more important than ever. J.D. Power started it all in 1981 with the company released its first Customer Satisfaction survey (Power calls it an Index) and again in 1987 when it released the automotive Initial Quality Study. Since that time, a number of companies have thrown their hats into the ring and have come up with their own unique methods of measuring customer loyalty and their perceptions of vehicle quality.

For its part, San Diego-based Strategic Vision has come up with its own matrix in evaluation customer perceptions of vehicle quality and brand loyalty. What follows is the company’s latest press release:

New Mazda3

For immediate release – Monday, November 10, 2008

San Diego – Strategic Vision today announced its 2008 Total Value Index® (TVI). TVI Scores fell across all brands reflecting economic concerns. During times of economic difficulties, automotive customers will examine the Total Value of potential vehicle choices with greater discrimination.

This greater customer scrutiny of automotive products will lead to new opportunities across all brands for the future. Customers are looking to the products to find the cues of quality that denote long term value with the best pricing, even among luxury vehicles. “When economic conditions become more favorable, the manufacturers who have focused their efforts in enhancing product quality and communicating messages of trustworthy products and overall value will be in a position to regain and even take over new market share,” reports Alexander Edwards, Strategic Vision’s president of automotive.

The economy has affected more than just the consumer’s willingness to spend money. As customers are bombarded with gloomy financial news on almost all fronts: stock markets down and fluctuating wildly, homes in foreclosure, plants closing and corporations laying off personnel, every decision has to be weighed against the individual consumer’s personal standard for Security. A vehicle purchased today must withstand even more demanding scrutiny. As a result, TVI brand scores are down across the board with a one notable exception. Pontiac made a stunning 25 point advance in TVI scores by combining competitive pricing with perceived interior quality. The Pontiac G6 is a good example of how Pontiac has exceeded customer expectations with price, value and interior quality cues.

Toyota Motor Sales is still the company to beat in customer value, although the Toyota brand was part of the overall trend of falling TVI Scores. Toyota Motor Sales has had 30 leaders in TVI over the past four years. In 2008, they add an astounding ten more: seven for Toyota (Yaris hatchback, Prius, Solara Convertible, RAV4, 4Runner, Sequoia and Tundra) and three for the Lexus (IS250/350, LS and RX400 Hybrid). Toyota’s consistent foundational messages of quality and reliability delivered over many years have generated consumer trust in Toyota products. “This trust is a crucial first step to success in today’s market,” says Dr. Darrel Edwards, Founder and CEO of Strategic Vision.

Ironically, Toyota’s strong perceived reliability and durability expectations may slow Toyota’s sales during this economic slowdown. Customers may begin to evaluate if now is the right time to purchase a new vehicle and many Toyota and Lexus buyers may decide to “put off” the purchase of their next vehicle and wait for more favorable economic conditions.

 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible

General Motors did well in Total Value with four segment leaders. Chevrolet’s strong tradition of value in both the sports car fun of the Corvette and the hardworking practicality of the Tahoe and Sierra were recognized. American Honda (with the Accord, Coupe, Odyssey and Ridgeline – all 2007 leaders) and Volkswagen of America (with the A3, Q7 and Passat Wagon) each had three models leading in their segments. Mazda is also worthy of mention as customers felt that they have received the “zoom-zoom” for their money in the Mazda3 Sedan and CX-9.

Buyers rated the following vehicles top in Total Value (TVI) in their segments:

The calculation of TVI begins with explicit statements that owners make about value (e.g. expected reliability, expected fuel economy, price paid, expected resale value, etc.). TVI then incorporates the importance of the variables that make up the ownership experience, and it is here that Strategic Vision finds “True Value” — the worth of the attribute weighed against the costs.

Here at LotPro.com, we try to avoid discussing politics around the office. But while we may not all agree on who is the best candidate, we certainly can agree on one thing – the automotive tastes of many of our past presidents were certainly eclectic. And since Hagerty Insurance has done such a great job of researching these vehicles, we would like to share this list with you:

Jay Leno’s (and Bill Taft’s) Baker Electric

1. William Taft (1909-1913): Baker Electric — Taft was the first president to own and drive cars during his presidency. One of the most interesting cars he owned was, ironically enough, “green” — a Baker Electric. This electric vehicle was especially popular with women in the era, as it did not require any cranking and was virtually maintenance-free.

FDR’s Packard 12

2. Franklin D. Roosevelt (1933-1945): 1939 Packard 12 — In the 1920s and 30s, Packard produced some of the most beautiful and innovative cars of the era. Packard’s V-12 engine was especially smooth and provided exceptional performance in its time.

1946 Ford Tudor Sedan

3. Harry S. Truman (1945-1953): 1945 Ford Super DeLuxe Tudor Sudan –
All automakers shut down their production during World War II and did not return to making passenger cars until 1946. The very first car assembled after World War II was a white Super DeLuxe Tudor Sedan assembled on July 3, 1945, and it went to President Harry Truman.

Ike’s ‘Detroit Car’ Imperial

4. Dwight D. Eisenhower (1953-1961): 1956 Chrysler Imperial – The 1956
Chrysler was updated with the new 1956 “Forward Look” styling. This particular model was frequently used by President Dwight D. Eisenhower and became known as “The Detroit Car.”

1961 Ford T-Bird

5. John F. Kennedy (1960-1963): 1961 T-Bird Convertible – This was the first year for the much sleeker “Bullet Bird” styling. The Thunderbird was 1961’s Indianapolis 500 pace car and was featured prominently in U.S. President John F. Kennedy’s inaugural parade. (This was probably helped along by the appointment of Ford executive Robert McNamara as Secretary of Defense.)

1950 Oldsmobile 98

6. Richard Nixon (1969-1974): 1950 Oldsmobile – This particular car owned by Nixon is of historic impact because it was referred to during his infamous “Checkers” speech that was said to save his candidacy for vice-president, when his honesty and loyalty were in question.

Ronald Reagan’s 1952 M-38A1 Jeep

7. Ronald Reagan (1981-1989): 1952 Army Jeep, Model M-38A1 – This was a gift to President Ronald Reagan from his wife Nancy and was considered highly collectible by the time he received it in the late 1970s.

Bill Clinton’s 1967 Mustang Convertible

8. Bill Clinton (1993-2001): 1967 Mustang Convertible – Clinton owned this Mustang as a collector car prior to and during his presidency. He has been quoted as saying that this car was the hardest thing for him to leave behind when he moved to the White House.

2006 Cadillac CTS

9. John McCain (2008 Candidate): First car: 1958 Corvette — This is considered a highly coveted collector car and was the first year for the dual front headlights, which gave the car a much more aggressive look than any earlier Corvette.

Current car: 2006 Cadillac CTS – The CTS is Cadillac’s entry-luxury sport sedan, designed to compete with the best European sport sedans. This is a mid-sized luxury car that gets respectable fuel mileage-up to 27 MPG.

2008 Ford Escape Hybrid

10. Barack Obama (2008 Candidate): First car: Ford Granada — This was reportedly Obama’s grandfather’s car and the car he learned to drive in. To quote Obama directly: “It may be the worst car that Detroit ever built … This thing was a tin can. (Detroit was) trying to compete with the Japanese. They wanted to keep the cars big, so they made them out of tin foil … You basically couldn’t go over 80 (miles per hour) without the thing getting out of control.”

Current car: Ford Escape Hybrid – Nearly 100 years after William Taft drove an electric vehicle, Obama traded in his Chrysler 300C for a more fuel- efficient. It makes sense that Obama owns a hybrid, as he is a big supporter of researching the best methods for alternative fuels for transportation.

Mazda Mazda3

New study reflects quality, value and “green” issues

In the ever-expanding portfolio of consumer-based automotive studies, you can add yet another: Strategic Vision’s “SmartGreen Index.” This latest study is said to meld consumer attitudes towards the perceived quality of a vehicle into a mix that includes such eco-friendly issues such as fuel economy and environmental “friendliness” (a rather broad term, to say the least).

In any case, for your edification, here is the complete press release:

San Diego – Strategic Vision unveils the new SmartGreen Index℠ (SGI℠) which reflects the relationships between perceived quality plus overall value (Smart) and “green” issues such as fuel economy and environmental friendliness (Green). SGI℠ is based on actual customer experiences and is weighted according to those aspects which best predict customer advocacy, overall satisfaction, future brand choices and loyalty, which ultimately result in increased model and brand sales.

Being a hybrid vehicle alone is not enough to guarantee top SmartGreen℠ marks. Industry-wide, some hybrids place at or below segment average in SGI℠ when factors such as interior quality cues or overall perceived value are rated below their competition. While the Toyota Prius may be the obvious SmartGreen℠ leader because of its fuel economy, it is easy to forget that the Prius also offers innovative interior styling which adds to making the Prius the SmartGreen℠ choice and among hybrid models, highest in sales. “Even when fuel prices are highest, people will want more than a little box with good fuel economy,” says Chris Chaney, V.P. of Special Projects at Strategic Vision. “For example, the Mazda3 leads in its segment ahead of the hybrids, offering superior styling, innovation, performance and affordability coupled with good fuel economy, offering more than competitive hybrids.”

Kia Amanti

Chevrolet had the most segment leaders among the domestic corporations with the Tahoe, Avalanche (tie) and Corvette Convertible leading their respective segments. The Tahoe scored high in perceived quality, as did its competition; however, the Tahoe was rated exceptionally higher than the competition in environmentally friendliness and fuel efficiency. “Even SUV buyers are sensitive to Green issues. Flex-fuel and hybrid options provide Green choices to Tahoe owners which increase customer advocacy, retention and bring new buyers into the brand, even if the vehicle they finally purchase is not always the greenest option,” states Alexander Edwards.

The MINI Cooper Clubman and Convertible were leaders in their segments due to terrific performance, overall value and Green-related issues. The MINI Cooper Hatchback scored just below the MINI Cooper Clubman, with both vehicles taking the top places in Specialty Coupes. The BMW 3-Series Coupe was also a leader in its segment.

MINI

Other best in class SGI℠ leaders were the Kia Amanti, Nissan Murano (tie), Audi Q7 and Mercedes S-Class for their excellence in quality, styling, performance and greenness. Buyers rated the following vehicles tops in their segments:

According to Dr. Edwards, in addition to the SGI℠ segment leaders, many manufacturers are “getting it right” with their model lineup. Included in Strategic Vision’s SmartGreen℠ Report are vehicle Five and Four Star SmartGreen℠ ratings, that are provided to manufacturers to better understand which of today’s vehicles are paving the way to help make their brand and their lineup the leaders of tomorrow.

For example, Five and Four Star vehicles are those like the Suzuki SX4 Sedan which offer fun and excitement through strong vehicle performance and styling in a fuel efficient package. These attributes and vehicle imagery are what can lead to increased awareness and potential consideration of the SX4 and other Suzuki models.

Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid

In addition to its segment-leading Amanti, Kia also has five other vehicles that scored highly in their respective segments: Spectra4, Rondo, Sedona, Sorrento and Sportage. Hyundai also placed well with four of their models — Azera, Entourage, Elantra and Santa Fe — demonstrating that thoughtfulness, value and overall economics all work together toward Hyundai’s future success.