2008 New York Auto Show Highlights

Popular Mechanics has some great layouts from this years New York Auto show, here a few links to some of my favorites stories, videos and pictures.

Design Students Mod 3 Custom Nissan Cube EVs

To celebrate the announcement, Nissan turned to New York's Pratt Institute of Industrial Design to create some innovative and aesthetically pleasing exterior and interior treatments that will communicate the Cube's personality and style to the masses attending the show here this week. Nissan is calling the project "Automobile Meets Art."

Saleen S5 Raptor Concept

The Raptor runs on E85 and is a showcase for Saleen's next-gen supercharged 5.0-liter V8. Theodore said the Raptor will hit 60 mph in the low 3-second range and uses an all aluminum frame with lightweight composite body panels. Top speed? The Saleen folks say it will run past 200 mph.

2008 Ferrari 612 Scaglietti

Named in honor of legendary Modenes stylist and coachbuilder Sergio Scagletti,, the 612 features a massive V12 engine capable of developing 540 hp and a tire shredding 434 lb.-ft. of torque. The six-speed, F1-style gearbox features a new SuperFast technology that cuts shifting times to just under 100 milliseconds (put that in perspective: F1 vehicles shift times range from 40 to 60 milliseconds). Ferrari also equipped the 612 with a twin-plate clutch to reduce weight and rotating masses, plus thermal and mechanical inertia. This sled’s top speed is a blistering 198 mph, and it zips from 0 to 62 mph in under 4.0 seconds.

2009 Dodge Challenger

The 2008 Challenger SRT8 that was unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show offered a glimpse of Dodge’s top-dog muscle car, but we’re finally able to take a closer look at the entry and mid-level 2009 SE and R/T models here at the 2008 New York Auto Show. While the 425-hp 6.1-liter V8-powered SRT8 is the clear choice for tire-melting enthusiasts, we’re guessing Dodge will sell far more of the affordable SE and R/T models—just as Ford does with its successful V6 Mustangs.

Maserati Gran Turismo S

The Gran Turismo S has an all-new V8 engine that develops 440 hp and torque of 361.4 lb- ft. It accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in just 4.9 seconds and has a maximum speed of 183 mph—the highest ever reached by a production Maserati.

For more hot cars from this years show check out the official vehicle galleries, you won't be disappointed! PopSci.com has also updated their gallery of the best and brightest cars.