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2005 Los Angeles Auto Show
By: Drew Phillips
Photos by the author
January 17, 2005

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To be honest, expectations weren't too high for the L.A. International Auto Show. The west coast show's only real advantage compared to Detroit is the weather, and even that wasn't great this year. Sure, rain is better than any winter in Detroit, but that doesn't stop car makers from giving it all the attention. Expectations were exceeded, however, with the fair turnout of new cars - twenty four debuts in total, twelve of those being international debuts. Dodge figured it could steal some attention with its Viper Coupe before the Corvette Z06 appeared in Detroit, Ford brought out the new Mustang Convertible, and Pontiac debuted two new versions of the G6. Manufacturers from Audi to Volkswagen introduced new cars at the show. The following are some highlights.

Saleen S7 Twin Turbo

Just like last year, several of the smaller car manufacturers including Spyker, Panoz, Venturi, and Saleen decided to make their presence known with most of the larger automakers focusing on Detroit. The most exciting debut for horsepower fans came from Saleen who introduced a twin turbo version of their already 200 mph capable S7 supercar. The Garrett Turbos added to the 7.0 liter engine help produce 750 bhp and 700 lb-ft torque. The aerodynamics of the car were also modified to allow for better airflow. Compared to the previous car, the 2005 model features redesigned front and rear diffusers as well as a new rear spoiler and reshaped front fenders. The changes are good for a 60% increase in downforce and a 40% decrease in drag. Saleen, never one to give conservative performance numbers like its European counterparts, estimates that 0-60 mph can be achieved in under 3 seconds, and the 1/4 mile in well under 11 seconds.

Dodge Viper SRT-10 Coupe

Power-hungry car enthusiasts might also be interested in the new Viper SRT-10 Coupe from Dodge. Viper fans have only had a convertible model to play with since the last GTS was built in 2002, and there has been a call from the Viper faithful for a hardtop model ever since. "Demand for a Dodge Viper Coupe started the day we introduced the Dodge Viper SRT10 Convertible for 2003," said Dan Knott, Director of the SRT program. "The all-new 2006 Dodge Viper SRT10 Coupe is a natural evolution of the heritage of the Dodge Viper, and gives enthusiasts exactly what they’re looking for in the ultimate American sports car." Expectations were high for the new car, especially since the last introduction of a coupe brought a host of improvements including a revised suspension and increased horsepower. While neither of those improvements came with the Coupe, the car does benefit from improved rigidity and aerodynamics. The half-hearted update is going to generate quite a few complaints: not enough horsepower, too much weight, or not aggressive enough, but the real test will come when the new Viper faces off with Corvette's new Z06.

Bentley

Bentley took advantage of the sun-loving California crowds and introduced its gorgeous Arnage Drophead Coupe. This concept was built by Bentley to continue the long history of elegant four-seat convertibles that the company is known for. Using the 1955 Park Ward S1 Drophead Coupe and the Bentley Azure for a basis of design, Bentley's design team created a car that looks aggressive, modern, and elegant all at the same time. Power is provided by Bentley's twin-turbo 6.75 liter V8 that produces 450 bhp and 645 lb-ft torque. What's even better is that this car will likely make it to production. Ashley Wickham, Bentley's chief engineer, noted "By the spring of 2006 we expect to be able to start production if there is sufficient interest from potential customers."

Ferrari

Ferrari gave a first look at two of its new models on North American soil. The F430 and Superamerica both made their U.S. debut at L.A. and created quite a stir among the public and journalists alike. Watching members of the media line up to sit in the Superamerica to flip its top up and down was like watching kids waiting in line for a ride at the theme park. The Superamerica is one of the cars that you just aren't sure about when you first see it in photos but end up drooling on when you see it person. Ferrari has finally managed to find a convertible top that looks good on the Maranello, up or down. It works like a charm too. The Fioravanti-designed top will silently rotate up on to the top of the roof or flip down and lay flat in just a few seconds.

Conclusion

Hats off to this year's L.A. Auto Show. The fair amount of newer cars made it interesting, and there was a more excited atmosphere than last year. Once again many of debuts came from the smaller manufacturers, but that's perhaps what makes L.A. a unique show. After all, you aren't going to see Spyker, Venturi, or Panoz at NAIAS. The organizers of the show have perhaps caught on to this, and have planned the next show to be in November. The separation from Detroit's show will hopefully increase the potential for the event. We'll just have to wait and see.