Wednesday, August 19, 2009

Noble M600 unveiled


We've seen spy shots, spy shots, and more spy shots of Noble's new M600 supercar. Now the British car builder has finally released official images and details of its latest model, complete with a Volvo-based twin-turbo V8 producing 650 horsepower. Pricing is expected to be around £200,000, more than twice that of previous models, and customers waiting on the now-extinct M14 and M15 can request for their deposits to be returned if they don't wish to purchase the new car.


As the high price tag suggests, the M600 brings much more to the table than past Noble models. The car is constructed from a stainless steel tub, tube skeleton and chassis, and carbon fiber body panels for a curb weight of just 2810 lbs. The 4.4L V8 (a first for Noble) has been fitted with twin Garrett turbochargers, and the driver can change between three output settings - 450, 550, or 650 horsepower - with max torque output of 618 lb-ft. Performance will be more than up to supercar standards, with 60 mph reachable in 3.0 seconds flat, 100 mph in 6.5 seconds, and a top speed of 225 mph.


In that vein, the new Noble has fixed-rate dampers, a fixed-ratio steering system and Alcon brakes with iron discs and only a very modest level of servo assistance so that, according to Boutwood, they have plenty of feel and are easy to modulate.


As with past models, Noble aimed to make the M600 a purist driver's car. The traction control system can be completely deactivated, and there is no ESP system or anti-lock brakes. Shifting will be done old school with a 6-speed manual gearbox and no paddle shifters will be offered. The M600 will make its public debut at the Goodwood Revival on September 19-21.
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