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Partner- und Mitglieder-Blogs/jpcnews.blogspot.com
 Nothing big here folks, just a JDM-spec promo vid for the 370Z. It's got some good action shots, but be prepared for what may very well be the world's most annoyingly repetitive tune. You have been warned. Hit the jump to check out the video. [Source: Nissan]
25/11/2008
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Partner- und Mitglieder-Blogs/jpcnews.blogspot.com
 Rumours that Honda is considering importing the British-built FN2 Civic Type R to Japan and selling it alongside the JDM-only FD2 CTR have hit the web, raising more than a few eyebrows in the process. On some levels such a decision makes sense: The FN2 is a two-door hatchback with much sharper styling than the FD2, and would probably prove popular with buyers wanting a Type R with a bit more visual verve. On the flipside, the FD2 is by all accounts a fair few rungs up the performance ladder...
25/11/2008
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Partner- und Mitglieder-Blogs/jpcnews.blogspot.com
 Despite repeated denials from Carlos Ghosn himself, rumours of an impending GT-R-based performance sedan refuse to die. This time around though, the rumour-mongers (Peter Lyon, I'm lookin' at you) say the R35's twin-turbocharged 353kW VR38DETT motor won't feature under the sedan's bonnet, instead being replaced by a hi-po variant of the 5-litre naturally-aspirated VK50DE V8 that powers the Infiniti FX50 SUV. The GR6 twin-clutch transaxle and ATTESA-ETS all-wheel-drive system are...
28/10/2008
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Partner- und Mitglieder-Blogs/jpcnews.blogspot.com
 Way back in March, Mitsubishi UK announced that the all-new Lancer Evolution X was available in factory-modified FQ360 trim. With the badge denoting the power, the FQ360 boasted a handy three hundred and sixty horses (268kW) from its modified 4B11 engine, which was a decent step up from the standard X's 294hp. Still, the question on everyone's lips at the time concerned whether or not Mitsubishi UK would see fit to revive the big-daddy FQ400 badge for the Evo X - a move which back in March...
16/10/2008
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Partner- und Mitglieder-Blogs/jpcnews.blogspot.com
 Here's some eye candy for you all to perv on. These pics are renderings of Wald's upcoming Sports Line bodykit for the R35, and boy do Wald love vents. Despite the front bumper being mega-fussy, Wald has definitely come up with an eye-catching design for the GT-R. The side view is dominated by those rear over-fenders (which, truth be told, would look a lot better painted the same colour as the body) and the rear features a very Ferrari 599-esque rear diffuser and some kind of...
02/09/2008
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Partner- und Mitglieder-Blogs/jpcnews.blogspot.com
 If you thought that SR20-powered Toyota Aristo speedway racer was weird, then check this out. It seems that some Japanese dude decided that his bright purple luxo-sedan with colour-coded Work Euroline rims wasn't enough of an attention grabbing ride, so he did what any man in his position would do... he grafted the tailgate section and rear windows from a Ford Taurus wagon onto the back. Of course. Kudos goes to Mike Garrett of Auto Otaku fame for stumbling upon this pearler of a find. It's...
23/08/2008
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Partner- und Mitglieder-Blogs/jpcnews.blogspot.com
 I know a lot of you have been wailing about the disappointment that has been the GH series Impreza, but thankfully your cries have not gone unheard. Subaru have been listening to your concerns and have addressed practically all of them in their 2009 update for the non-STI WRX lineup. The ride? Firmer than before. Power? 31kW more than the last WRX. That shitty eggcrate grille? Pleasingly absent.First things first: Power. The WRX now gets 198kW from its 2.5-litre boxer four, which is a hell of a...
01/08/2008
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Partner- und Mitglieder-Blogs/jpcnews.blogspot.com
 If a report recently published by Inside Line is to be believed, Toyota's highly-anticipated RWD compact coupe could be released to the Japanese market only, effectively destroying hopes of a global sports car revival by the Japanese automaker.Don't break out the Kleenex just yet though, as this is pure rumour for now. Inside Line is the only outlet to break this news and their man in Japan Peter Lyon is normally on the ball when it comes to predictions like this, but we have to wonder: why...
31/05/2008
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Partner- und Mitglieder-Blogs/jpcnews.blogspot.com
 At the start of the month we brought you news that the motorsports-ready Subaru Impreza WRX STI Spec C was just around the corner. Now, it seems that Japanese magazine CarTop have got the scoop on the new Subie, publishing what looks to be a photo of the genuine article. Whereas Best Car's previous rendering of the Spec C was quite clearly the product of around five minutes of Photoshopping, CarTop's image appears to be the real deal. The roof scoop that BC speculated about is there, as is a...
28/05/2008
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Partner- und Mitglieder-Blogs/jpcnews.blogspot.com
  Is it a new Celica , or the triumphant return of the AE86 Sprinter ? Whatever the case, Toyota have taken the unusual (but sensible) step of giving enthusiasts a direct say in what the new Lightweight Sports car should be.
Members of the Club4AG forum have been given the chance to pass on their wish-lists to the Toyota engineers in charge of the project, via one of the site's founders, Moto Miwa. Toyota is in the early stages of a performance car revival, and it seems that engineers and executives within the company are keen to converse with fans of past Toyota sports cars to find out what made the originals so great.
In the case of the lightweight sports, Club4AG members want to see a car that has:
- Low mass (around 1250kg)
- A high-revving, twin-cam engine of around 170-190bhp
- A manual gearbox with at least 5 speeds
- A strong rear-wheel-drive drivetrain, with an LSD as standard
- A competent suspension that is geared more towards competition than commuting
- A great degree of "tune-ability" built in
- Factory aftermarket support from TRD
And, above all else:- A low purchase price
Most of the above qualities are what made the original AE86 so great, and why after more than 20 years it is still a fan favourite. If Toyota follows the advice of Club4AG, then the next sports car from them should be a real corker.
You can read all of Club4AG's suggestions here .
[Source: Club4AG , via Winding Road ] [Image copyrighted, Shuichi Shigeno]
21/02/2008
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Partner- und Mitglieder-Blogs/jpcnews.blogspot.com
  The things I would do to put a proper sportscar through its paces at Fuji International. I've lost count of how many times I've lapped that circuit in Gran Turismo, but sadly that's as close to the real thing as I'll ever get. Edmunds' Japan correspondent Peter Lyon, on the other hand, got to tackle Fuji's technical corners and enormous straight in Subaru's newest performance flagship: the GH Impreza WRX STI. The lucky bastard.
Lyon tested the Japanese-market STI, which features a 227kW 2-litre boxer motor, as opposed to the 2.5-litre engine that will see service in the US and other foreign markets. We've already covered the STI's specs extensively (go here to find out more), so we won't go into specifics. What we will say is that Lyon delivers a glowing review for the Subaru. There's also a lot of interesting background information about the development of the STI, and what marks it as different from the cooking-model WRX (aside from those fat fenders, of course).
It's a good read, and one that Subaru fans should definitely check out, even if they don't find the WRX's new look particularly endearing. Sure, it might be a bit ugly, but according to Peter Lyon this is one book that definitely should not be judged by its cover. Read the review here .
[Source: Inside Line] [Photo courtesy of Subaru]
15/11/2007
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Partner- und Mitglieder-Blogs/jpcnews.blogspot.com
  The Nissan GT-R wasn't the only hotly-anticipated Japanese performance car to make its world debut at the Tokyo Motor Show. Subaru's Impreza WRX STI also managed to snare its share of the limelight at Tokyo, and was launched earlier today.
The WRX STI is traditionally a more balls-out type of car when compared to the standard Impreza upon which it is based, however with the all-new GH model Subaru have definitely reined-in the testosterone levels. It's all a part of Subaru's strategy of 'civilising' the Impreza brand and moving away from the hard-core power-slidin' image of its WRC past. Unfortunately this strategy has robbed the poor WRX of much of its visual menace and made it the butt of many a joke in Internet forums worldwide. Boo hoo, right?
Wrong.
According to Subaru's press release (below), the STI still packs a punch, with the familiar EJ20 flat-four cranking out 227kW and 422Nm of torque. Some may be disappointed (others elated) to note that the signature rumble of the boxer four is unlikely to be a feature of this new WRX STI, as Subaru has employed a new low-interference exhaust design to free up more power. A veritable alphabet's soup of acronyms transfer power to the tarmac and are an evolution of the DCCD and VCD systems seen in past STI's. There's a lot more info contained in Subaru's press release, so keep on reading to learn more.
FHI Introduces All-New Subaru Impreza WRX STI
Tokyo, October 24, 2007 ? Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI), the maker of Subaru automobiles, has announced the introduction of its all-new Subaru Impreza WRX STI in Japan. The new WRX STI went on sale nationwide through Subaru dealerships today.
Advancing FHI's theme of producing the complete driver's car and embodying the essence of total driving control, the third-generation Impreza WRX STI has debuted with complete makeovers in its design, engine, chassis and features. Benefiting from Subaru's signature Symmetrical AWD and the Horizontally-Opposed Boxer engine, the new WRX STI is an innovative AWD sports model that delivers a combination of joy of driving and pride of ownership.
The new five-door model features not only a greatly refined engine and suspension but new mechanisms such as the multi-mode Driver's Control Center Differential (DCCD) and multi-mode Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC). Also, the Subaru Dynamic Chassis Control Concept (Subaru DC3) has been further developed for the WRX STI in order to maximize performance and driving pleasure and to ensure high levels of driver satisfaction through total control of the vehicle.
The vehicle's interior and exterior design expresses sophistication and refined functionality. The widened body flares give an irresistible presence, integrating function and beauty, while the interior design stresses high quality and a sporty image. In addition, the Impreza WRX STI features advancements in the areas of environment, safety, and comfort, all of which match FHI's goal of delivering exceptional performance and enjoyable and dependable drivability with environmental considerations in all Subarus.
The first-generation WRX STI model was based on the first Impreza WRX and was developed by Subaru Tecnica International (STI), an FHI subsidiary specialized in motorsports activities. Since its introduction in 1994, the WRX STI has established a solid reputation as a high-performance sports model. In the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) that requires participants to compete with production-based models, Subaru WRX STI models have proven their credentials by bringing Subaru three consecutive Manufacturers' championship titles from 1995 to 1997. In this context, FHI plans to submit a Group N homologation application effective as of January 1, 2008 for the new WRX STI to FIA.
The introduction of the new WRX STI has completed the full lineup of the Impreza series in Japan. The Impreza 15S, 20S and S-GT models have been available since June 2007, each offering individual strengths in performance and comfort.
Major Features 1. Design [Exterior design] Styled around the concept of "Pure Form for Driving", the widened body flares accentuate the 5-door body taken from the new Impreza. A deep-set character line, running along the side from the front bumper to the rear end, and a pronounced edge shape reflects light and shadows and gives the car a different look depending on the time of day. While retaining a consistent flow from front to rear bumper, the front and back fenders are prominently projected, creating a distinctive identity and gives the WRX a unique road presence. Aerodynamically improved body styling with a large rear spoiler optimizes the balance between the front and the rear quarter panels by reducing wind resistance. An aerodynamically curved form from the front bumper to the front fenders helps minimize lift forces and contributes to maintaining vehicle stability at high speeds. Engine compartment ventilation is provided on both sides of the front bumper and along the rear edges of the fenders.
The strong front grille employs a sharp wing shape with metallic mesh, suggesting the car's inherent sportiness. The rear garnish is painted in the body color, enhancing the widened body shape. The rear edges of the front fenders are embellished with STI logo plated in cherry red.
The muffler comes with twin dual-tail pipes. Eye-catching 18-inch aluminum-cast wheels, distinguished by their five spokes and highlighted by dark-tone high-luster paint, are standard. These wheels enhance the vehicle's bold and commanding presence while expressing high quality and streamlined beauty. BBS-brand cast wheels with spokes and sharp lines are also available as an option.
Seven exterior colors are available: Obsidian black pearl; pure white; spark sliver metallic; dark gray metallic; lightning red; midnight blue pearl (only for the WRX STI); WR blue mica.
[Interior design] The interior is finished in black and silver to highlight its streamlined design, as well as to create an impression of elegance and sportiness. Dynamic designs with decorative insets in the center panels and door trim express roominess in the cabin. The vehicle information display, which constantly shows outside temperature, average mileage and time, as well as a navigation screen and audio display, are placed nearer the top of the dashboard for improved visibility and functionality.
The front bucket seats use a combination of Alcantara fabric and leather and are designed to offer easy access into and out of the vehicle and to hold the driver and passenger in comfortably and securely. Jointly developed by RECARO, custom bucket seats are also available as a manufacturer's option. The RECARO seats offer fuller side support and excel in maintaining a comfortable position for sporty driving. Their height adjustment enables the further lowering of the hip point setting in the seats.
Power tilt and telescopic steering comes with a three-spoke genuine leather wheel embossed with the STI logo in its center. The instrument panel combines three meters, a tachometer between a speedometer and fuel gauge, in a single module illuminated in red. Each meter's dial is colored cherry red, the STI brand color, emphasizing a quality feel and sportiness. When the ignition key is turned on, the needles of the three meters swing up to their maximums and quickly fall back to their original positions, imparting a boost of excitement for the driver. The meter module also comes with a REV Indicator, DCCD Torque Indicator, and Shift-up Indicator. In addition, red LED lights are used for interior door step lights, and they are also provided for the console tray. The center console is embellished with the STI logo, which illuminates when the car's headlights are on.
2. Packaging An extended wheelbase and widened track provide optimal dimensions for the new model to ensure its outstanding driving stability and straight-line maneuverability. (The wheelbase is wider by 85 mm, the front track is 40 mm wider, and the rear track is 45 mm wider, than the previous model.) The 5-door body style excels in balancing lift forces in the front and desirable downward forces in the rear, achieving optimal aerodynamic characteristics.
Shortening of the front and rear overhangs has reduced yaw moments of inertia, and enabled highly stable handling, while interior roominess has been preserved. The body structure has been enhanced for improved performance and upgraded specifications. However, the gross weight has remained nearly the same as in the previous model through streamlined body construction.
3. Powertrain [2.0-litre turbo Boxer engine] An electronically controlled throttle enables finely adjusted control of the 2.0-litre turbo Boxer engine and ensures acceleration that is linearly responsive to pedal movement. The Dual Active Valve Control System (Dual AVCS) hydraulically controls timing in both the intake and exhaust valves, which helps improve low- end torque while providing a strong power boost at high rotations. Dual AVCS also increases combustion efficiency, thereby reducing exhaust emissions. Changes made in the intake and exhaust ports promote smoother air in- and outflow, contribute to enhancing power output, and improve combustion efficiency, which reduces emissions and improves fuel mileage. In addition, changes in the shape of the turbocharger compressor have increased the efficiency of the air intake and enabled more responsive and smoother acceleration.
Also, the layout of the exhaust pipes greatly facilitate overall air outflow by canceling interference and increasing airflow between the exhaust port and the turbo charger to deliver optimal torque and engine response at various speeds.
A tumble generated valve (TGV) has been installed in the intake manifold, boosting combustion efficiency by controlling the intake flow. It improves efficiency particularly at the time of engine ignition. Also adopted is a secondary air system that forces air into the exhaust port to burn out any gasoline remaining in it. The system helps eliminate harmful substances when the powertrain is still cool, and it promotes early activation of a catalytic converter.
The muffler is placed horizontally, which lowers resistance in the exhaust flow, results in improved noise cancellation, and contributes to smooth power output.
[Transmission] A 6-speed manual transmission, Subaru's own development, has been further perfected for faster, more accurate and responsive shifts. Friction is substantially reduced through the adoption of a triple-cone synchromesh in the first gear and design changes in the shift sleeves.
4. Drivetrain The front differential gear adopts a torque-sensitive LSD (limited slip differential) that excels in response to input torque; the rear differential employs the Torsen LSD that supports distribution of torque. The SI (SUBARU Intelligent)-Drive system offers three different modes of driving for the driver to enjoy: Intelligent; Sport; and Sport Sharp. For example, when a driver continues to heavily depress the accelerator pedal in the Intelligent mode, engine output is automatically boosted to the level of maximum torque. The multi-mode Driver's Control Center Differential (DCCD) enables the driver to choose from different modes of control for the center differential. This feature allows the driver to enjoy handling and maneuvering as he desires, and it provides high levels of vehicle straight-line stability unique to the AWD configuration. The multi-mode Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) also provides three different modes that the driver can choose from to experience a wider range of driving enjoyment, while always maintaining the safety features of VDC.
[Multi-mode DCCD] AUTO mode: The standard mode automatically controls the differentials under all kinds of driving conditions. AUTO [+] mode: This mode is suited for driving on slippery or icy roads, which requires higher levels of road traction, achieved by elevating differential control. AUTO [-] mode: This mode enables agile driving whereby the vehicle responds swiftly to steering by the driver. MANUAL mode: This mode allows the driver to control the center differential manually.
[Multi-mode VDC] NORMAL mode: The standard mode controls ABS, TCS and VDC. TRACTION mode: Adjusting both TCS and VDC, this mode extends the time period until the VDC kicks in. This mode is suited for sporty driving as it does not control torque-lowering in the engine. OFF mode: This mode only controls ABS. It is used in emergencies like getting the vehicle out of deep snow or mud. *Though the multi-mode VDC is the vehicle stability control device that offers a superior function, it is a driving assist system.
5. Chassis The WRX STI boasts a state-of-the-art chassis design that reflects the Subaru DC3. Equipped with a strut- type front suspension and the newly designed double-wishbone rear suspension, and combined with its widened track, this model achieves outstanding cornering stability. Optimized suspension geometry settings with adjusted camber angles have made substantial improvements in road-hugging traction and riding comfort. Aluminum cast lower arms and a stabilizer bar in the front suspension help raise torsional and rolling rigidity, providing accurate response in steering. In the rear suspension, suspension links are attached to the body through the sub-frame, which enhances riding comfort and further lowers noise levels. The Boxer engine is mounted lower on the chassis, further advancing vehicle stability already ensured by its low center of gravity: 22 mm lower at the front end of the engine, compared to the previous model.
The Brembo-made ventilated disk brake system employs an ultra-low expansion brake hose and tie rods for the brake booster. The brake system, coupled with the SuperSports ABS (antilock brake system) with EBD (electronic brake distribution), processes information fed from the G sensor, steering angle sensor, yaw rate sensor, and pressure sensor to deliver steady braking and control. It also works with the DCCD to ensure accurate braking on all four wheels independently, while minimizing deviations from the driver's intended path. Bridgestone RE050A (245/40R18) tires are standard.
The hill-start assist function maintains the braking function one second after the brake pedal is released in case of starting a car on a hilly road.
6. Body construction The WRX STI uses an advanced form of Subaru's legendary and proprietary Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame Body Structure, reinforcing each pillar with frames that circle around the body in a ring shape. Reinforcements are now provided to connect firmly between the lower part of the front pillar and upper frames, increasing the strength of the strut attachment onto the body frame. Reinforcements are also added to the upper part of the opening of the rear gate.
Through streamlined body construction and the extensive use of high-tensile steel, including 590 MPa?level steel for major body frames, the new model has achieved both high body rigidity and a weight reduction of 11 kg.
7. Safety Advancing the Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame Body Structure, the new WRX STI has realized high levels of safety and crash worthiness through effectively absorbing and dispersing crash impact in frontal, side, or rear impact crashes. The hood, for example, is specifically designed to disperse frontal impact. The new model boasts low-impact features for pedestrians and other vehicles in collisions. All models are equipped with dual SRS airbags, side SRS airbags and curtain airbags, as well as 3-point seat belts in the rear seats. A collapsible brake pedal is available on all models to reduce the risk of foot injuries in accidents.
8. Environmental friendly features The new model achieved an additional 50% reduction in emissions from the levels of the 2005 exhaust emission regulations set forth by Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport. This was accomplished primarily owing to reduced weight and performance improvements.
9. Utilities The all-new double-wishbone rear suspension makes room for a wider and deeper luggage compartment, improving the utility of the car. The wide and flat load floor can accommodate two Tour-size golf bags or five carry-on bags. Larger door openings afford improved ingress and egress, and the rear doors open 75 degrees to allow for better rear seat access. The door pocket serves also as a beverage holder that can hold a 500-mL PET bottle. In addition, the center console box accommodates 8 CDs, while the console tray provides space for placing small items.
10. Others Standard features on the WRX STI include retractable headlight washers; an anti-theft alarm system and immobilizer; a hood damper; and a keyless entry system with a push-bottom starter. An HDD navigation system with audio capability (compatible with Subaru G-Book Alpha telematics service) is offered as a manufacturer's option.
Specifications: Body Size (length/width/height) 4,415 X 1,795 X 1,475 mm Wheel Base 2,625 mm Track (front/rear) 1,530/1,540 mm Kerb Weight 1,480 kg Engine Type Horizontally-Opposed, 4-cylinder Dual AVCS*** 16Valve DOHC Intercooled twin scroll Turbo Engine ***AVCS:Active valve control system Bore/Stroke 92.0 X 75.0 mm Displacement 1,994 cc Max. Output 227kW(308PS)/6,400 rpm Max. Torque 422Nm(43.0kgfm)/4,400rpm Fuel System EGI(Multi point sequential injection) Fuel tank capacity 60 litre Transmission Type 6MT:Forward 6-speed/Reverse 1-speed Gear Ratio 3.636 (1st) 2,375 (2nd) 1.761 (3rd) 1.346 (4th) 1.062 (5th) 0.842 (6th) 3.545 (Reverse) Final drive axle ratio 3.900 Suspension(front/rear) Independent, MacPherson strut type/Double wishbone type Tyres 245/40R18
[Source: Subaru] [Photo courtesy of Autoblog ]
24/10/2007
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Partner- und Mitglieder-Blogs/jpcnews.blogspot.com
  The keen-eyed folk over at the NASIOC forums have spotted a rather suspicious-looking Legacy cruising the highways of California recently, renewing speculation that this may be a prototype for an STI version of the mid-size sedan.
The WRX bonnet scoop is quite literally the biggest tip-off that there's something fishy about this car, while the gaffer tape on the roof and the outline of some mysterious boxes inside the car further the notion that this is some kind of development vehicle, but a development vehicle for what exactly? A car just like this one (perhaps the very same vehicle) was spotted over a year ago , and forum warriors and armchair pundits eventually agreed it was a drivetrain development mule for the new GH Impreza , with whom it shares a floorpan. However, considering the GH is now virtually complete, what is the be-scooped Liberty still doing on the road?
Well, a couple of explanations exist: either it's a development car for some kind of performance variant of the Liberty, or its still got some hard work to do for the GH Impreza platform. Given that Subaru is rumoured to be developing a DSG gearbox for the WRX STI, the latter scenario is probably the more believable one, but what do you think? Set the rumourmill in motion via the 'comments' form below!
[Source: NASIOC , via Jalopnik ] [Photo courtesy of bouse1]
22/10/2007
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Partner- und Mitglieder-Blogs/jpcnews.blogspot.com
  Fans of fast cars, tennis and Nintendo's latest console will like this one: Lexus, as sponsors of the US Open, will be holding a "Virtual Tennis Open" using the Nintendo Wii where the grand prize will be... a brand new IS-F! Granted, the winner will only be getting a one-year lease on the IS-F, but it's still a fantastic reward for just a few hours of well-timed wrist flicking. The competition takes place at the Rockefeller Center in New York next month. [Source: Brandweek ] [Photo courtesy of GFerg]
25/08/2007
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