2008 European Car Magazine Buyer's Guide - Web Exclusive

When AWE started putting down serious power in the 997 Turbo it became clear that the factory intercooler system was good for about 600 hp. These new intercooler assemblies were designed using a Compulsion Fluid Dynamics modeling system to maximize airflow and increase efficiency. To complete the system, thick silicone hoses were molded using Nomex braiding for superior strength and an integrated lip to imitate the factory locking mechanism.
Price: $2,995
AWE Tuning
888.565.2257
www.awe-tuning.com

Unlike some polishes that can only be used on chrome or billet wheels, Black Magic titanium wheel polish is safe enough to be used on any type of wheel or metal. We have personally used the titanium wheel polish to easily remove the haze on a set of bronze Volk Racing wheels, created by a car wash using non-Ph balanced wheel cleaner.
Price: $5.99
Black Magic
800.416.1600
www.blackmagicshine.com

Factory sound systems in most vehicles are generally underpowered, and most attempts at upgrading the OEM sound system still leave something to be desired. Many simply deal with it because they don't want to remove the stock radio, butcher the car's interior, or violate the warranty. Blaupunkt understands these reservations and developed a plug-and-play four-channel amplifier to enhance factory audio. There's even a five-channel system available if you'd like to add a subwoofer. Applications include Audi, BMW, Jaguar, Mercedes, Porsche, Saab, Smart, and Volvo.
Price: $474-$624
Blaupunkt
800.950.2528
www.blaupunktusa.com

Since everybody wants their 15 minutes of fame, Datatoys has an inexpensive system to make your driving exploits into a digital video suitable for YouTube or your favorite online forum. This complete single-cam digital recording system gives you everything you need (batteries not included) to quickly and easily record all of your in-car adventures. If you're not looking for fame, the system, equipped with a Sony bullet camera, will allow you to clearly record your performance at the track so you can review it all later.
Price: $599
Datatoys
414.294.8017
www.datatoys.com

Higher than normal oil temperatures are common on BMW's N54 twin-turbo six, and if the temps get too high the car will shut itself down and leave you stranded. To help reduce operating temperatures under aggressive driving conditions, Dinan has developed a high-capacity oil cooler that mounts in the factory location with an integrated inlet duct to maximize airflow and the ventilation of air to the fender well. This characteristic makes it perfect for track use or a vehicle running increased boost. Price: $1,999 (for cars equipped with the factory oil cooler only); $2,299 (for cars not equipped with the factory oil cooler)
Dinan
800.341.5480
www.dinancars.com

The boost recirculation valve/diverter valves on the 997 Porsche Turbo are located in the compressor housing of the turbocharger. The location makes them prone to leaks or failure from excessive heat. To eliminate this problem, Evolution Motorsports has designed a direct replacement valve that features an improved and more efficient design. The Evo valve is CNC-machined from aircraft grade, hard, anodized 6061-T6 aluminum, and utilizes military-spec Viton O-rings to ensure longevity and eliminate leaks. Price: $389 per pair (red or black)
Evolution Motorsports
480.317.9911
www.evoms.com

The new M3 has a very aggressive stance from the factory, the only real problem being there's just a little too much gap in the front wheelwells for some tastes. H&R has developed a set of sport springs that even out the vehicle's profile without adversely impacting ride quality. Like all H&R products, these springs are manufactured to ISO 9001 standards and carry both TV and ABE certifications.
Price: $489
H&R Springs
888.827.8881
www.hrsprings.com

Imagine a hot, sticky, 115-degree day. You get inside your car, burning yourself on the scorching leather seats and the blazing hot steering wheel. As you start the car, instead of feeling the cool relief of air conditioning, you're blasted in the face with the smell of mildew. Yuck. Plus, it is added embarrassment when you have a passenger in the car. Klima-Cleaner's active foam eliminates the bacteria and fungus within the air conditioning system, which is the source of the odor.
Price: $15
Einszett North America
888.719.4698
www.1z-usa.com

The Gran Turismo 5 Prologue driving simulator stands alone when it comes to digital driving realism. Polyphony Digital and Logitech wanted to make sure enthusiasts felt the same way about the Driving Force GT steering wheel. So, unlike a standard controller that leaves you feeling disconnected from the simulated driving experience, the Driving Force GT steering wheel, with its force feedback system, ensures that you experience your virtual drive the way developers intended.
Price: $149.99
Logitech
800.231.7717
www.logitech.com