For 58 of its 60 years, the Chevrolet Corvette has been powered by the legendary Chevrolet V-8 engine. Technological advancements have increased output threefold – from 195 hp in 1955 to 638 hp today – as well as reliability, refinement and efficiency.

However, the fundamental architecture of the Chevrolet “Small Block” remains the same today as it was in 1955: a 90-degree V-8, with overhead valves actuated by pushrods, and a 4.4-inch on-center bore spacing.

“The brilliance of the Chevrolet V-8 is its elegant, efficient design,” said Jordan Lee, global chief engineer for Small Block Engines. “The Chevy V-8 has fewer reciprocating parts, and is very efficient and has one of the best power-to-weight ratios of any engine family in the industry. The design is incredibly compact, enabling the Corvette’s signature sleek profile and low hood line.”

Despite a sporty appearance, the early Corvettes’ performance didn’t match their good looks. The car launched in 1953 with the “Blue Flame” inline six-cylinder engine and a two-speed automatic transmission – not exactly the stuff on which to build a sports car legend. That changed in 1955, when the new small-block V-8 engine became available and was ordered by 99 percent of Corvette buyers. Read more!

Hello again, folks! When we first wrote about The performance appearance package for the 2010 dodge challenger, we couldn’t tell you the price tag of every tuning option. And now we can:

• door-sill guards – $140
• vehicle cover – $323
• chromed fuel-filler door – $176
• rear deck-lid spoiler – $316
• splash guard kits – $52.75/pair
• classic Mopar hood – $1,275
• decal kits – $190
• floor mat kit – $82.25
• hitch receiver – $298
• interior trim bezel – $172
• cold-air intake systems – $371
• cat-back exhaust systems – $1,745
• Stage 2 coilover suspension Kit – $1,750
• Mopar strut tower brace – $359
• performance brake pads – $74

Innovative Vehicle Solutions (IVS) presented the HAVOC Camaro Aero Kit for the muscle car during the 2010 National Automotive Dealers Association (NADA) convention.

Adam Moore, business development manager, performance/aftermarket at IVS said “The HAVOC Camaro Aero Kit gives dealers a chance to offer their customers a totally personalized, custom-built experience”. He also added “The kit provides enthusiasts with options that are paramount in terms of design, quality and cost, and provides dealers with a strong sales opportunity.”

The price of this bodykit is in the range of $225 to $625 per individual piece. The kit includes:

• Custom 20 inch HAVOC wheels
• lower front chin spoiler with brake cooling openings
• side lower rockers
• an aggressive rear spoiler
• two-piece diffuser with paintable outer section
• optional carbon fiber hydrographics
• custom side and hood graphics.

IVS also offers the Powertrain Integration kit, which is an engine upgrade package, ECU upgrade and other accessories.

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