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2012 Chicago Auto Show: Top Ten Cars

Posted by Ben on 02 15th, 2012

2012 Chicago Auto Show: Top Ten Cars

Starting 1901, Chicago Auto Show is held annually in February at Chicago’s McCormick Place convention complex and stays one of the best-attended auto shows in the world. Though not covering as much vehicles as Detroit Auto Show, it still offers plenty of interesting reveals to be seen. This year Chicago Auto Show offered some interesting debuts as well as last year’s performance focused models. I’ve selected ten cars including both production models and concepts worth of car enthusiasts’ attention. Check out the rundown to pick your favorite auto!

10. Cadillac Ciel Concept

Being noticed at the 2011 Classic Car festival in Monterey California previously, Caddy Ciel concept was showcased again, at Chicago Auto show this time. The model is so unique and has so many details that it would take time to mention all of them. The most significant details are: wood accents (from a fallen Olive tree in California), full power, dead-bolted ‘suicide doors’, and door pockets complete with zippers.

9. 1954 Mercury XM 800 Concept

This stunning full-size two-door hardtop is a true jewel of this year’s Chicago Auto Show. It was actually hidden in the corner, being all magnificent and grand. I’m talking about 1954 Mercury XM 800 Concept here. The XM 800 was first introduced at the 1954 Detroit Auto Show, while making quite an impact. Nowadays, it is recognized as one of the most impressive concept cars ever produced. It boasts a history, you know. Making appearances at most major car shows, the car even had a role in Hollywood, showing up in the 20th Century Fox production Woman’s World.

8. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Special Edition

There’s something in between Chicago Auto Show and Mazda MX-5 Miata… Since the very first Miata appeared at the 1989 Chicago Auto Show, Mazda regularly showcased the new roadster hotness. The MX-5 Special Edition arrived with new black power retractable hard top as well as with gunmetal wheels. Other updates include Mazda’s standard suspension upgrade kit (Bilstein shocks). The interior boasts a full kit of tech options and a nice combination of heated black leather seats and black accents. There will be only 450 Mazda MX-5 Miatas sold in the U.S. with a price starting at $31,225. So don’t you hesitate!

7. 2013 Acura ILX

Acura RSX was dropped years ago, and the automaker decided to be back in the premium compact game, now presenting an absolutely new ILX. This smart-looking sedan is available in several trims: a budget-minded model powered by 2.0-liter 150 hp unit, an efficiency-minded hybrid model fitted with 111-hp, 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, and a performance-focused model making 201 hp.

6. 2013 Shelby GT500 Convertible

We’ve already seen the GT500 coupe at Los Angeles Auto Show last year. So here’s 2013 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 Convertible ready to blow your mind. Just like its sibling, this beautiful drop-top is powered by a supercharged 5.8-liter V8 engine that produces impressive 650 hp and 600 pound-feet of torque. For now, it is the most powerful eight-cylinder engine in production. The automaker claims that the all-new Shelby GT500 is able to run Sebring International Raceway 3.5 sec faster per lap than the previous years models. This is due to the optional Performance Package with Bilstein electronic adjustable dampers as a part of it. Expect the 2013 model to arrive this summer priced about $65,000.

5. Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition

The fastest and most capable Corvette Convertible ever, the model is fitted with 427-cubic-inch (7.0-liter) V-8. It makes 505 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque. Corvette 427 Convertible reaches 0-60 mph in 3.8 seconds, while its top speed is over 190 mph. The special edition ‘Vette stands out due to such carbon fiber elements as Z06-like fenders, floor panels, and a raised hood.

4. 2012 Lexus LFA Supercars

The Lexus booth at Chicago Auto Show gave us the perfect opportunity to check out FOUR of the automaker’s carbon-fiber exotics in red, black and yellow. Super cars were offered with an assortment of factory wheels, too. Each of these exotics is fitted with V10 engine making 552 hp.

3. 2013 Nissan 370Z

Here we don’t observe a lot changed, besides the refreshed face, that now features LED lighting. Well, actually, there are significant changes made to the lighting both, front and rear. What can’t be left unmentioned is the new wheels which are a part of Sport package, as well as retuned shocks and red brake calipers.

2. Kia Trackster Concept

Surprisingly, Kia has become a must-see brand at any auto show. What’s cool, Kia Trackster is purely a concept! While being based on the Soul, it is 5 inches wider than the latter. The underhood of crossover features a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine making 250 hp. We love everything about the Trackster, its three-door body, the wider hips and the lowered stance, even the X-shaped fog lamps. Kia isn’t planning to put it into production, but the market’s reaction will deff show if this high-performance crossover is what peeps need.

1. 1993 SVT Ford Mustang Cobra R

You might wonder what makes 1993 SVT Ford Mustang Cobra R so special? Well, one of the rarest ‘Stangs ever built by Ford reappeared at 2012 Chicago Auto Show as a reminder of the 20th anniversary of Ford’s Special Vehicle Team. The concrete Cobra R showcased at the show is actually a time capsule from the early ’90s, yet being in the incredible condition.

Is your vehicle stunning enough?

Your car might not be a star of the major auto show, but it still deserves to be at its best. You can even revive your ride or make its complete transformation with the help of custom-made and universal accessories. No matter what kind of vehicle you drive, at CARiD you’ll find appropriate parts to update your ride. Take a look at some exanples below:

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