Saturday 3 August 2013

Audi takes both top spots on grid at Russian premiere

Audi is entering the first Russian race in DTM history with two cars on the front row. At the debut event at Moscow Raceway, Mike Rockenfeller and Mattias Ekström in their two Audi RS 5 DTM cars are starting from the front row (Sunday, from 13:15, CEST live on “Das Erste”).
 
On the new DTM race track located around 80 kilometers north-west of Moscow, the Audi RS 5 DTM left a strong impression right from the beginning. In the morning’s free practice, seven Audi drivers were in the top eight; in the afternoon, leader of the standings Mike Rockenfeller in the Schaeffler Audi RS 5 DTM of Audi Sport Team Phoenix and Mattias Ekström in the Red Bull Audi RS 5 DTM of Audi Sport Team Abt Sportsline clinched the two top grid positions for Audi.
 
As a matter of exception, the third section of qualifying on the 2.555-kilometer track of Moscow Raceway was the decisive one. The single timed laps of the top four had to be cancelled on short notice for safety reasons because the rescue helicopter was grounded. By setting the absolutely fastest time of the day (58.423 seconds), Mike Rockenfeller secured the top spot on the grid for the second time this season. For Audi, it was the 70th pole position in total in the DTM.
 
“Obviously, I’m very pleased to be in first place and starting from the pole position at the DTM’s premiere in Russia,” said Mike Rockenfeller. “My Audi RS 5 DTM was perfect today; Team Phoenix did a fantastic job. My pace was so good today that I’d have been confident to take first place in Q4 as well. We knew that qualifying here is very important but we already worked for the race as well. That’s why I’m hoping that our car will be running well in the race tomorrow too. Let’s see what the weather will do and what other surprises there’ll be in Russia…”
 
On taking grid position two, Mattias Ekström achieved his best qualifying result of the season so far. The Swede made the leap into the top four for the first time this year. His team-mate Jamie Green in fifth place just barely missed the top four in his Red Bull Audi RS 5 DTM.
 
Miguel Molina (Audi RS 5 DTM), Adrien Tambay (Audi ultra RS 5 DTM), Filipe Albuquerque (Audi Financial Services RS 5 DTM/Audi Sport Team Rosberg) and Timo Scheider (AUTO TEST Audi RS 5 DTM) are starting the race from grid positions eleven, twelve, 13 and 14. Edoardo Mortara (Playboy Audi RS 5 DTM) is starting from 16th place after several of the times he had set in Q2 were cancelled for his car having left the track.
 
“It’s great that at the Russian premiere of the DTM two Audi RS 5 DTM cars are on the front row,” commented Dieter Gass, Head of DTM at Audi Sport. “Our cars were running really well here right from the beginning. Naturally, the end of qualifying was a bit odd, but I think ‘Rocky’ and Mattias (Ekström) would have had very good chances of taking the front row in Q4 as well. Both were fast in all sessions and always running at the very front. With three cars in the top five and seven in the top 14 we’ve got a good overall starting base for tomorrow’s race. And with a view toward the Championship it’s obviously particularly pleasing to see Mike Rockenfeller start from the pole position and thus having the opportunity to extend his lead of the standings.”
 
The DTM premiere at Moscow Raceway starts at 15:30 local time (13:30 in Germany). Fans around the world can watch the race live on the DTM’s new YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/dtmint. 39 TV channels in total air live DTM coverage in 141 countries. In Germany, ARD will start to broadcast live from Moscow on “Das Erste” at 13:15.

Lowest CO2 and LED light for new 184PS Audi A3 TDI

 Even more efficient and effective LED headlights are now available for all A3 models, while a new 184PS 2.0-litre TDI unit can be specified in conjunction with Sport and S line specification.
Audi is widely regarded as an industry luminary where both lighting and TDI technologies are concerned, and the latest developments for the all-new A3 underscore this fact. The acclaimed compact now offers the option of advanced Light Emitting Diode (LED) headlights achieving daylight-like levels of illumination, and can also now be equipped with a new 2.0-litre TDI engine variant which is the most powerful ever to be offered by the Vorsprung durch Technik brand.
Renowned for using LED technology to spearhead the transformation of the once unassuming daytime running light into an elaborate design hallmark – a move which has since been mirrored by countless manufacturers – Audi is again leading the way by being the first to bring the benefits of LED headlamps to the premium compact class. The distinctive and highly efficient new alternatives to the more familiar xenon gas discharge headlamps, which will continue to be offered, are available for every A3 and S3 variant.
In SE and Sport models, they can be specified as part of a new LED lights package costing £2,000, which also includes LED rear lights, light and rain sensors and LED ambient interior lighting. In S line and S3 models they are available as a stand-alone option costing £795.
Nine high-performance LED chips in two free-form reflectors generate the low-beam light in the new headlights for the A3, while the high beam uses ten high-performance LEDs to emit light through an aluminium aperture. Static turning and all-weather lights are housed in a separate module, while the daytime running and parking lights and the indicators are formed by a light guide that wraps around the upper and inner headlights.
Multi-function lights
The static turning lights further expand the breadth of illumination when cornering and direct additional light to exactly where it is needed, while the all-weather light eliminates the need for conventional fog lights and reduces glare in poor visibility. Motorway lights which elongate the field of illumination at speeds of over 68mph, and junction lights which widen the beam at intersections to improve safety are also integrated, as is a travel mode which, when a navigation system is installed, uses GPS data to automatically adjust the headlamp beams for right-hand-drive countries to avoid blinding oncoming drivers. 
With a colour temperature of around 5,500 Kelvin, the LED light resembles daylight, helping to reduce eye fatigue. The light-emitting diodes are maintenance-free, designed to last the life of the vehicle, and are exceptionally efficient. The low-beam light, for example, only consumes around 40 watts, which is five per cent less than xenon plus units.
Like many of the assets in the Audi technology portfolio, LED headlights have evolved with the help of endurance racing and its unique and extreme challenges. They made their debut in the R 15 TDI Le Mans sports prototype in 2010, and in 2011, further developed full-LED headlights were installed for the first time in the R18 TDI. With their combined lighting power of over 200 watts, the LEDs generate a light pattern with a range of over 0.6 miles. Their equivalent luminous intensity of over 1,000 lux is five to seven times greater than headlights in production cars.
The sophistication of Audi TDI technology has also been accelerated by its key role in Le Mans, and the benefits in terms of power, response and efficiency can now be enjoyed in a new upscale version of the 2.0-litre TDI that also joins the range to coincide with the new lighting option. Initially available for three-door A3 and five-door A3 Sportback models, but also due in the all-new A3 Saloon during 2014, the new unit delivers 184PS and a 380Nm torque peak between 1,750 and 3,250rpm, and supplements the 150PS version which has been available since launch. It is also notable as the first diesel unit in the UK line-up to be offered in conjunction with either front-wheel-drive or quattro all-wheel-drive.
Front-wheel-drive versions are equipped as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox, and quattro variants with the six-speed S tronic twin-clutch transmission.
Compliant with 2014 EU6 emissions standards
The six-speed manual A3 2.0 TDI 184PS can complete the 0-62mph sprint in 7.3 seconds and continue to a 145mph top speed, while at the same time returning up to 68.9mpg in the combined cycle test, and emitting 108g/km of CO2, less than all comparable premium sector competitors. The fact that this advanced unit already complies with more stringent EU6 emissions regulations applicable from 2014 bears testament to its exemplary efficiency.
In quattro versions, a newly developed multi-plate clutch directs proceedings. The hydraulically actuated and electronically controlled component can send power from the front to the rear axle in just a few milliseconds and weighs significantly less than the previous unit.
In the interest of better axle load distribution, the clutch is located at the end of the prop shaft, in front of the rear differential. Inside it is a package of plates which rotate in an oil bath. During normal driving, the clutch sends most of the engine’s power to the front wheels, but if they start to break traction it can transfer torque in varying degrees to the rear axle almost instantaneously by pressing the sets of plates together under control.
Whether in Sport or S line guise, the new 184PS TDI models, like all A3 variants, are available with either comfort-oriented standard suspension, or sports suspension lowered by 15mm over standard and with a tauter, more handling-focused bias. S line models can also be equipped with S line sports suspension, the most overtly sporting set-up with a ride height lowered by 25mm over standard. All options are available at no cost.
Continuing on the options theme, a new black styling package also becomes available this week for all Sport and S line versions of the A3, and for all S3 variants, priced at £395. It brings a high gloss black treatment for the radiator grille surround and its struts, a matt black finish for the grille itself, for the side air intake grilles and for the number plate holder and a platinum grey look for the diffuser.

More than 50 debuts expected fot 2013 LA Auto Show

With a new leadership team in place, the Los Angeles Auto Show (LA Auto Show®), known as the first major North American auto show of the season each year, announced today that it expects more than 50 vehicle debuts to be unveiled in front of a global audience during its Press Days, November 20-21, 2013.
The debut line-up this year promises a mix of cutting-edge trends and innovations in today's competitive automotive market. BMW has confirmed seven to eight debuts, including a yet-to-be-named global premiere. MINI will also present a strong showing with the long-awaited global introduction of its brand-new MINI automobile.
Chevrolet, Honda, Mercedes-Benz, Subaru and Volkswagen have confirmed worldwide debuts with top-level executives on hand, while Porsche has officially announced that it will introduce the Macan, the manufacturer's highly anticipated SUV crossover. Underscoring L.A.'s rank as the nation's largest market for luxury, performance, tech-laden and eco-friendly vehicles, the LA Auto Show will feature an impressive lineup of models from all of these segments in 2013.
Recognizing Southern California's increasing prominence as an emerging tech startup region (namely, the newly-coined "Silicon Beach" area), it comes as no surprise that the LA Auto Show is introducing the Connected Car Expo (CCE). Focused on shaping the future of mobility, CCE is a three-day expo designed to connect technology companies with automakers, media, analysts, and other potential customers. Slated to kick off on Nov. 19, CCE will continue in conjunction with LA Auto Show Press Days on Nov. 20 and 21.
In coordination with CCE, the Show will host key automotive and technology industry influencers, including NHTSA's David Strickland, Google's Ron Medford, MIT's Bruce Mehler and the Auto Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers' CEO Mitch Bainwol, alongside senior executives from companies such as OnStar, Qualcomm and Sprint.
"Our leadership team is guiding a new era of growth and evolution for the LA Auto Show in 2013," said LA Auto Show President, Lisa Kaz. "Not only are we improving some of our long-standing elements, but also launching the Connected Car Expo, which brings together some of the biggest players in both the automotive and technology fields."
In addition to the vehicle introductions and executive presence, the Show will present some major changes to its aftermarket hall, which will now offer attendees a high-energy, lifestyle-rich atmosphere, complete with live music and interactive stations.
The 2013 Show will also break tradition by kicking off Press Days with its inaugural invite-only Motor Press Guild Motoring Invitational, an exclusive two-hour showcase featuring exotics and classics from around the world. Nearly 100 automotive icons, influencers, collectors and celebrities will gather with their favorite rides for the ultimate showcase of California car culture.
"As the first major North American show of the season, Los Angeles sets the tone for 2014, and we expect that automakers will pull out all the stops to excite new-car buyers. In virtually every category, from the greenest electric vehicle to high-horsepower performance models, the technological advancements we are seeing today eclipse all previous automotive eras," said Terri Toennies, the LA Auto Show's new General Manager.
Register for LA Auto Show Press Days here and Connected Car Expo credentials hereGeneral registrationfor CCE is also open at this time.
About the Los Angeles Auto Show and Connected Car Expo
Founded in 1907, the Los Angeles Auto Show is the first major North American auto show of the season each year.  Press Days for the 2013 LA Auto Show® will be held on Nov. 20 and 21. The show will be open to the public Nov. 22 - Dec. 1. The Connected Car Expo (CCE) will be the first expo to unite automotive and technology professionals in an effort to increase development and foster relationship-building in the connected car industry, providing attendees with access to the key players and top media constructing the future of the connected car. CCE will debut on Nov. 19, and continue in conjunction with the 2013 LA Auto Show Press Days.  The LA Auto Show is endorsed by the Greater L.A. New Car Dealer Association and is operated by ANSA Productions. To receive the latest show news and information, follow LA Auto Show on Twitter at twitter.com/LAAutoShow or via Facebook at facebook.com/LosAngelesAutoShowand sign up for alerts atwww.LAAutoShow.com. For more information on CCE please visithttp://connectedcarexpo.com/

Volvo announces U.S. prices

Propelled by a major investment and product strategy to boost the Swedish automaker's position in the global marketplace, Volvo Cars of North America released pricing for its 2014 model year lineup today. The announcement comes as Volvo is about to deliver a lineup that reflects the biggest renewal of existing models in company history and highlights Volvo's commitment to offer customers outstanding value across its full range of products.
2014 models arrive with new designs, upgraded features and new support systems. Volvo's engine roster includes the 250 horsepower T5; 3.2-liter, naturally aspirated six-cylinder, making 240 horsepower; and the turbocharged T6 at 300 horsepower. The most powerful six-cylinder currently offered by Volvo, the R-Design's 3.0-liter turbocharged engine puts out 325 horsepower and a stout 354 lb.-ft. of torque.
Bolder Design Features Across Lineup
The front of the S60 has been redesigned sporting all-new exterior panels from the A-pillars forward including a new hood, front fenders and fascia. A wider grille with a larger Ironmark is flanked by new headlights while a larger, wider lower front intake gains bright accents and horizontally mounted LED daytime running lights. At the rear, new LED light guides on the taillights and new integrated exhaust pipes contribute to the more powerful road presence and self-confident stance.
The 2014 S60 lineup starts at $32,400 for the front-drive T5, while the T6 AWD lists for $39,250. AWD with Instant Traction is again available on the value-leading S60 T5 and can be added as a stand-alone option, with a price unchanged from 2013 at $2,000. A new sport package comprising sport seats, paddle shifters, 18-inch titania alloy wheels and dynamic chassis is standard on the T6 AWD and optional on the T5. The S60 T6 R-Design starts at $42,700.
For the XC60, changes begin on the outside, where the popular crossover sports a new hood, front fenders and fascia that emphasize a wider and more confident appearance. Redesigned headlights flank a bold new grille sporting a larger Volvo Ironmark. These significant exterior design changes emphasize the dynamic, capable nature of the XC60. With careful attention to detail, the designers have increased the XC60's road presence. The popular XC60 crossover starts at $34,850 in 3.2 FWD and the T6 AWD starts at $39,250. The XC60 R-Design starts at $45,800.
Volvo brings the XC70 into sharper focus with redesigned front and rear styling, including a new grille with a bolder, wider proportion, a larger Iron mark and LED daytime running lights, updated front and rear matte silver décor trim, rear skid plate décor and new taillight design. This bolder XC70 starts out at $34,500 in 3.2 FWD and $40,950 in T6 AWD. Among the more interesting safety features on the XC70 are the dual, fully integrated booster seats in the rear seating area. They are height adjustable, so they adapt as a child grows. What's more, they look like normal seats.
Changes to the S80 begin on the outside, with a new front fascia incorporating a new grille design with larger Volvo Ironmark and grille pattern. Below the new bumper, a redesigned lower front intake stretches the visual width of the car to create a bolder, wider horizontal stance. New LED daytime running lights are positioned at the outer edges of the intake while the headlights also receive a new look. Following up at the rear is a redesigned bumper and new taillight design sporting LED graphics. S80 starts at $39,900 in 3.2 FWD and $43,950 in T6 AWD. Dressed in optional Inscription package, featuring Sovereign Hide soft leather, ventilated front seats and branded interior touches, the T6 AWD with Inscription represents Volvo's most luxurious offering.
With standard seating for seven, versatile cargo solutions, extensive safety features and a choice of front and optional all-wheel drive with Instant Traction, the XC90 remains an outstanding value. All XC90s are equipped with Roll Stability Control (RSC); Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (DSTC); Side Impact Protection System (SIPS) with side airbags and Inflatable Curtains for all three rows. XC90 starts at $39,700 in 3.2 FWD.
New Instrument Cluster Offers Driver Choice
Select models get a new Adaptive Digital TFT Display instrument cluster that allows drivers to choose between three themes with different configurations and functionality:
  • Elegance has a traditional appearance with a large, circular speedometer bordered by secondary displays.
  • Eco features green background illumination with an Eco meter displayed on the left.
  • Performancehas red background illumination for a more dynamic look. A tachometer replaces the speedometer while vehicle speed is shown digitally. The right display includes a power meter gauge that informs the driver how much power is available and how much is being used at any given moment.
In the R-Design versions, the Elegance theme boasts unique blue instrument dials.
Paddle Shifters, Quicker acceleration with Advanced Quick Shift
New paddle shifters will be offered - standard on most T6 AWD and R-Design models and available on T5 - letting the driver shift manually with both hands on the steering wheel. Coupled with Advanced Quick Shift (AQS), transmission optimization software that improves the speed of each gear change, acceleration also improves, increasing the vehicle's performance potential.
AQS is now available on all T6 engines and activated when the transmission is set to sport mode or when using paddle shifters. Gear changes are faster for models equipped with AQS - as much as 50 percent between first and second, and as much as 30 percent on gear changes two through six.
This bolsters the sporty impression of the T6 and also produces fantastic acceleration results. Zero to 60 improves 0.2 seconds on the S60 T6 R-Design - from 5.5 to 5.3 on model year 2014 with AQS - while the XC60 T6 R-Design sprints 0.4 seconds faster - 6.6 to 6.2 seconds on model year 2014 with AQS - compared to model year 2013.
Trim Levels Offer Customer Flexibility, New Features Reflect Safety Leadership
As in the past, each trim level contains previously available optional equipment that has been grouped together based on historical customer preference for pairing of specific features. Three trim levels, Premier, Premier Plus and Platinum builds upon the previous. Each model remains available without the new trim levels. Customers retain the flexibility to select stand-alone option packages as well as single options.
Key safety features debut on the MY14 lineup, including Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection with full auto brake and Cross Traffic Alert.* In certain circumstances, Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection with full auto brake helps the driver avoid collisions with pedestrians or cyclists. It is part of the Technology Package, priced $600 less than last year at $1,500.
A new radar-based Blind Spot Information System (BLIS)* also debuts for MY14. It uses sophisticated upgrades to monitor and alert the driver to rapidly approaching vehicles behind the car, while still informing the driver about vehicles in the blind spots on both sides of the car. Cross Traffic Alert is a new feature for MY14 that uses the radar sensors at the rear end of the car to alert the driver to crossing traffic from the sides when reversing out of a parking space. This is especially helpful in tight and crowded areas where the side view may be restricted.
New Volvos get warranty coverage for 4 years/50,000 miles, as well as free, factory-scheduled maintenance at 10,000 miles, 20,000 miles and 30,000 miles.
* On S60 and XC60 only.
ModelMSRP
  
S60 
S60 T5$32,400
S60T5 Premier$34,900
S60T5 Premier Plus$35,500
S60T5 Platinum$38,250
S60 T6 AWD$39,250
S60 T6 Premier Plus$39,900
S60 T6 Platinum$42,600
S60 T6 R-Design AWD$42,700
S60 T6 RD Platinum$45,700
  
S80 
S80 3.2 FWD$39,900
S80 3.2 Premier Plus$41,400
S80 3.2 Platinum$44,100
S80 T6 AWD$43,950
S80 T6 Premier Plus$45,450
S80 T6 Platinum$48,150
  
XC70 
XC70 3.2 FWD$34,500
XC70 3.2 Premier$37,900
XC70 3.2 Premier Plus$39,450
XC70 3.2 Platinum$41,950
XC70 T6 AWD$40,950
XC70 T6 Premier Plus$42,950
XC70 T6 Platinum$45,650
  
XC60 
XC60 3.2 FWD$34,850
XC60 3.2 Premier$37,950
XC60 3.2 Premier Plus$39,250
XC60 3.2 Platinum$41,950
XC60 T6$41,550
XC60 T6 Premier Plus$42,850
XC60 T6 Platinum$45,550
XC60 T6 R-Design AWD$45,800
XC60 T6 RD Premier Plus$47,100
XC60 T6 RD Platinum$49,800
  
XC90 
XC90 3.2 FWD$39,700
XC90 3.2 Premier Plus$41,200
XC90 3.2 Platinum$43,900
XC90 3.2 R-Design FWD$42,700
XC90 3.2 RD Platinum$45,400

Fake Ferraris abound

While it’s true that even a Ferrari can be seen as a work of art, that might be stretching the point somewhat in the case of the eight people recently arrested in Spain for having set up an organisation to make fake upmarket cars including Ferraris and then selling them on the Internet at knock down prices when compared to the originals. No less than 17 fake Prancing Horse 458 Italias and F430s were discovered in two workshops in Algamese and Albalat dels Sorells and they were immediately dismantled by the authorities. In this instance it’s not a case of copies but just forgeries pure and simple, on a par with those fake Hermes bags sold in the streets.
Is there a market for these cars? Apparently so, which goes to show that the urge to own a Ferrari is very strong and widespread. This incident, not the first of its kind, confirms the importance of the role of the official Prancing Horse sales network and its relationship with potential customers. If you really want a Ferrari, knock on the door of a Maranello dealership, to be found in 62 countries around the world with over 200 dealers.

Global Rallycross Mid-Season Review: LD Motorsports

Liam Doran has been one of rallycross’ busiest drivers this season, traveling across the world to race with minimal time out of the car. It’s that extra seat time, plus a competitive new car, that has enabled Doran to score his second career X Games gold medal.
Doran’s new ride for 2013 is a Mini Countryman, adapted by the Prodrive team from World Rally Championship competition. The new car replaces the Citroen C4 that he used at X Games in 2011 and throughout 2012, although he brought a Citroen DS3 to X Games Foz do Iguacu when the season opened.
No matter what vehicle he’s been in, though, Doran has been fast. He took the top seed at the season’s first two races, once in the Citroen and once in the Mini, and even posted the second-fastest seeding lap at Bristol Motor Speedway, a wider and faster track that was thought not to suit the Mini’s smaller weight class and engine.
Sometimes that speed has translated into podium finishes. Only two drivers medaled in both X Games Munich races, and Doran was one of them; he won the first event despite only having three good tires and finished second in the other race.
But Doran has also run into his share of trouble on the track. He made contact with Toomas Heikkinen in his heat race in Brazil, falling behind and going to the last chance qualifier, where an incident on the start line with friend Bryce Menzies ruined any chance of making it to the final. (That event sparked a rivalry between Doran and Heikkinen, who also had run-ins in Munich.) At Bristol, a pile-up heading from the dirt into the gravel took him out of the main event right away.
Despite missing the New Hampshire event, Doran enters X Games Los Angeles sixth in points, with a car that the opposition cannot underestimate. This may not be a championship year for him due to schedule conflicts, but Doran will continue to threaten to win races for the rest of the season.

Seat 600 gave wheels to whole nation

On the left is new Seat Mii and on the right a Seat 600. Resemblance to Fiat 600 is no coincidence.
Four decades ago this week, on July 31, 1973, the last SEAT 600 rolled off the assembly line in SEAT’s Zona Franca factory in Barcelona. It was a car that signalled a turning point in Spanish society, championing the beginning of widespread car ownership in the country.
The last four decades have seen substantial evolution in the automotive industry – and for SEAT itself – and the modern equivalent of SEAT’s original city car is the Mii.
The 600 is the icon that kick-started motoring in Spain during the years of slow recovery after the Spanish Civil War. It was made with license from Fiat, being technically a Fiat 600. No other model has become so embedded in Spain’s collective subconscious; many older drivers in Spain today recall being taught to drive in a 600 by their fathers. The car was a fixture in the everyday life of many Spanish families in the ’50s, ’60s and the ’70s.
Over the course of its 16-year production run, almost 800,000 SEAT 600 models were produced, including the four-door SEAT 800 that was manufactured between 1963 and 1968, but that was commonly referred to as a 600.
Mobility for all
The 63,000-peseta price of the SEAT 600 at launch – the equivalent of €379 (£330) today – meant that countless working class families were suddenly afforded the luxury of their own car. The impact of the arrival of the SEAT 600 was such that just one year after its launch, production had increased six-fold.
Initially, the SEAT 600 was equipped with a 633 cc engine that delivered an output of 18 hp, which remained in production for six years. The engine was upgraded to 767 cc with an increase in output to 25 hp and later to 28 hp on the D, E and L-Especial versions, which were manufactured for the remaining ten years of the 600’s lifespan.
Aside from the 800, on all variants of the 600 the body styling remained virtually intact, except for changing the ‘suicide doors’ during 1970. The original 600 engine only underwent a slight change in six years, moving to a 20 hp output from the original 18 hp, while the more modern 25 hp motor, fitted to the 600 D and E, remained unchanged until its very last year when, as an L-Especial model, it gained a further 3 hp thanks to an increase in compression. As its name suggests, the L-Especial added a touch of elegance, with plusher upholstery and an ignition key-activated anti-theft steering wheel locking mechanism. 
Aside from its ruggedness, the 600 had plenty of other virtues: first of all, its body design took full advantage of its 3.3-metre length, with a passenger compartment that in theory accommodated four occupants comfortably, and five sparingly – though in reality, several more would often be squeezed in.  
The 600 featured a basic sturdiness and was a mechanic’s delight, as repairs were easy and accessible. Furthermore, spare parts were extremely easy to come by, not only in the authorised outlets but in all parts and accessories shops, so the car was perfect for the DIY mechanic on a budget.
Performance levels in tune with the times
The 600 reached a top speed of 115 km/h (71 mph) and could cover one kilometre from standstill in 45.5 seconds – performance figures not to be sniffed at considering the car was fitted with an engine that put out 28 hp at most. Moreover, fuel consumption was 10 litres per 100 km in city driving (equivalent to 28.2 mpg) and 6.5 litres (43.5 mpg) on the open road, with a range of 461 km on a single tank of fuel.
But to demonstrate the progress made in the city car sector, by comparison the SEAT Mii 60 PS Ecomotive has a 100 mph top speed and can race to one kilometre in 35.4 seconds. It does so while consuming five litres per 100 km (56.5 mpg) on the urban cycle, and only 3.6 litres (78.5 mpg) on the extra-urban cycle. Its potential fuel tank range is 945 km (587 miles) – a substantial 484 km (300 miles) more than the 600’s.
Another significant difference is the boot volume. The 600 had to make do with only 68.5 litres, while the Mii by comparison offers nearly 3.5 times more, at 238 litres – hence visions of suitcases and belongings strapped on the roof rack of many a 600 back in the day.  
The following table shows the difference in technical performance between the SEAT 600 and the Mii:
 600Mii
ENGINE
TypePetrol, 4 cylinders inlinePetrol, 3 cylinders -12v
Displacement (cc)633/767999
Maximum power (hp/rpm)18-28/4600-480060-75/5500-6200
Fuel systemSingle-barrel vertical carburettorMultipoint injection
TRANSMISSION
TypeRear wheel driveFront wheel drive
Gearbox4 speed manual5 speed manual
STEERING
TypeWorm driveElectrohydraulic power steering
CHASSIS
Front suspensionIndependent, transverse leaf spring and shock absorbersIndependent MacPherson, stabiliser bar, coil springs and hydraulic shock absorbers
Rear suspensionIndependent, oblique wishbone, coil and shock absorbersSemi rigid axle, coil springs and hydraulic shock absorbers
BRAKES
Front/rearDrum/drumVentilated discs/drum
PACKAGE
Length/width/height (mm)3300-3320/1380/14003557/1641/1478
Kerb weight (kg)585-615929-940
PERFORMANCE
Top speed (km/h)90-115160-172
The significance of urban vehicles for SEAT
Throughout its history, the SEAT line-up has featured a wide variety of small cars, including the 600, the 133, Panda, Marbella, Arosa and the Mii.
The 600 was not only the starting point of this evolution, but a truly ubiquitous model that put Spain on wheels – a genuine icon of car ownership in the country. This is backed up by the fact that back in 1970, one in of every four cars on Spanish roads was a 600.

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