OveRDrivE

The magnificence of A1 Grand Prix car

2008-06-14T16:00:00.000-07:00

Though I’m not into car racing it is good to take a peek at the cars taking part in the A1 Grand Prix of Nations. I’ve learned that they are all kept to the exact same standards in engines and aerodynamics to level the playing field. The look of the car itself was inspired by what Sheikh Maktoum regards as a good looking race car. Also very much at concern of developer's minds was the need for excitement in the sport in the form of overtaking; a problem with cars at high speeds with high downforce. What happens, generally speaking, is a very high volume of dirty air (by dirty air I mean unstable and not unclean) is flung out behind the car generating the high downforce. This simply means that the car immediately behind loses downforce and this in turn makes it very difficult for passing as the vehicle following becomes difficult to handle. What the developers of the A1 GP cars have designed is a car that can create a very small pocket of dirty air and at the same time engineered the front wing in a way that would allow close following and therefore a lot of passing to happen throughout a race.

Its chassis is made and designed by Lola International and is made up of a core of aluminium honeycomb surrounded by a carbon fibre skin. This results in a one-piece safety cell tub which has proven to be indeed incredibly resistant to twisting (a good thing, ayt?).

It weighs for about 600kg Gearbox, with a 6-speed sequential and with paddle-shift. Its engine size is litre V8.

Porsche on the GO!

2008-06-14T13:34:00.000-07:00

Indeed, there are several things in this world that are relatively small yet have a bigger capability and higher potential when it comes to function. With this category includes the mobile phone, whereas as days pass it becomes smaller yet can possibly do multiple roles from picture shooting, video recording up to mp3 streaming. In automobile world, several notable producers and products can as well be compared to the above mentioned characteristics. Porsche’s car models may not have big wheels and big bodies yet they posses special capabilities. outfitted with high quality Porsche components, every Porsche model is destined to dominate in the automobile world.

As one of the famous car manufacturers, Porsche is a German based car make distributed around the world. The very first Porsche model was designed by Ferdinand Porsche. He was also the one who designed the first Volkswagen beetle. A unique characteristic of Porsche cars is the engine location particularly on the coupes. Porsche components were made to compliment to the location of the engine. One of these parts is the brake that plays a very vital role for Porsche. The brakes of a Porsche are specifically made to withstand its rear engine power. Other auto parts, such as the suspension, keeps the car’s body stable and in balance. With an engine employed at the rear on a rear drive vehicle, suspension is very vital and so with the overall weight balance.

Porsche cars are also used and famous in racing in various countries. Several races like Tour de France, Daytona and Watkins Glen on which Porsche cars set records. Had it not because of the performance quality Porsche parts and the dedication of the people behind this great company, such races can never be at their hands. Since the 1950’s, Porsche had been winning prestigious races both in the country and abroad. In the year 1970, one of Porsche car’s winnings is from the 24 Hours of Le Mans from which it garnered the grand prize. Porsche al so did joined a Formula 1 in 1962 and won as the champion.

At present, Porsche has declined its racing cars production due to some problems with finances but focused instead to marketing private cars. Nevertheless in 2005, another Porsche model had joined an ALMS season and won the fifth position. Several original Porsche components that were used for racing cars were still employed to the Porsche RS Spyder prototype. With this, no doubt the result still proves to be remarkable up to this time.

Get entertained!

2008-06-13T16:58:00.000-07:00

Can you still remember the time wherein cars are employed with audio systems which use cassette tapes that are capable only of playing from radio stations? Well, if we remember that, it was when we thought that cassette tapes and radio stations are all there is. Those are the times when we thought that cassette tapes and radio stations are the best in-car entertainment system. However, if we are to look nowadays as to what many companies can offer us, we will be amazed to find out that indeed the evolution of in-car entertainment has already gone far from cassette tapes to DVDs and all those stuffs.

Music and entertainment are some of the things and features that car owners want to be installed in their cars. This is true in so far as driving a long journey and even short ones are concerned. They wanted to be entertained wherever they go. Having this in mid, many producers and car manufacturers have thought that it is time to upgrade all the in-car entertainment. Some entertainment boundaries have been broken in and give in to a more precise and state-of-the-art in-car entertainment. Here, we are not just talking about DVDs and CDs but a cutting-edge in multi-CD players that are controlled by voice. Yes, you read it right! Voice controlled in-car entertainment. Who would have thought that from cassette tapes that are analog in nature is now upgraded and updated to voice controlled in-car entertainment. By voice controlled, it means that the multi-CD player can be commanded without having to press any sort of buttons for that matter. Cool, ayt? This will keep you from the hassle of pressing buttons while driving. DAB tuner and component tuners are also added to it. Not to mention, of course, DVDs.

Actually, the in-car entertainment system is not only for listening music but also for watching movies and television shows. One would surely be envy seeing a car equipped and loaded with special features such as this. All you have to do is to sit back and relax by listening to music or watching movies while someone is driving the car for you. Very comfortable and enjoying indeed!

Well, there are a lot to expect from the state-of-the-art in-car entertainment system these days. They are called multi-media on wheels. If there are television cellular phones, wheels have multi-CD players, amplifiers and subwoofers, speakers and other accessories. It is as if, when in a journey, you are still in the comfort of your home, not bore while feeling relaxed. The good thing is that all these features can be controlled not only by the driver but also those that are sitting from the backseats. The only problem though is that, there might be a situation wherein no person would want to be the driver anymore (lolz). All wants to be the passenger and enjoy to the fullest the benefits and advantages being offered by the high technological in-car entertainment system. These state-of-the-art systems of entertainment, however, can only be availed of course if you have enough money to buy and purchase all such luxuries.

Car Cleaning…

2008-06-13T13:57:00.000-07:00

Cleanliness is known to be a part and parcel of life, right? All of us like our things to be neat and tidy, be it in the house or car. With the fact that things tend to accumulate dirt over a period of time, cleaning them helps in restoring its original grandeur. Most people are passionate about their cars and ensure that they take good care to keep it nice and shiny. But of course just like in cleaning the house, you need to have cleaning tools for your auto. Though I have already mentioned in my previous post about the unique way of car washing without exerting any effort, hence, with the use of some cleaning products, you can keep their car in pristine condition without spending too much.

There are car cleaning products available are eco-friendly and biodegradable, which cause negligible damage to the environment. Products like car wax, glazes, polish, car shampoo, degreaser, tar and glue remover are in great demand. So you can use any of these.

With the fact that car is big investment, next only to buying a house. It is an asset and people take pride in taking good care of their cars (If only I own one, I will never ignore it). Maintenance also assumes importance in view of getting a good resale value and having a reliable mode of transportation. With just a little effort and planning, maintaining a shiny and dependable car will not be that difficult as what you think.

The 2009 Dodge Challenger

2008-06-12T16:05:00.000-07:00

Once again, Dodge Company has developed a bold, powerful and capable model which is the 2009 Dodge Challenger. It is the first five-passenger two-door coupe ever produced from the Company’s proven rear-wheel-drive platform that delivers the Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300. It is available in three models featuring head-turning styling, three available engine options and an automatic or manual transmission.

Director – Dodge Brand and SRT Global Marketing, Chrysler LLC, Mike Accavitti said that, "The all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger gives customers a modern-day muscle machine at an incredible value, for less than $22,000, and brought Dodge Challenger back and loaded it with head-snapping styling and cutting-edge technology."

This 2009 Dodge Challenger has more than 25 safety and security features that includes supplemental side-curtain air bags, Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Brake Assist, Traction Control, automatic headlamps, tire pressure monitoring and Hill-Start Assist in Dodge Challengers with the six-speed manual transmission. Likewise, Dodge Challenger has several modern amenities available like uconnect gps with navigation system and real-time traffic, uconnect phone featuring Bluetooth® technology, uconnect studios with SIRIUS Satellite Radio, Remote Start and Keyless Go push-button start. Here in United States three models are available, the Dodge Challenger SE (With a U.S. MSRP of $21,995), Dodge Challenger R/T (The U.S. MSRP for the all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T is $29,995) and Dodge Challenger SRT8 (The U.S. MSRP for the 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 is $39,995).

Dodge Challenger SE has standard parts features which includes comfortable seating for up to five adults, best-in-class cargo space (16.2 cu. ft.), 60/40 split-folding rear bench with arm rests and two cup holders, 17-inch aluminum wheels with P215/65R17 all-season tires, four-wheel disc brakes, side-curtain airbags, remote keyless entry, eight-way power driver’s seat, fold-away power mirrors, power locks and windows with express-down, air conditioning, AM/FM/CD radio with MP3 capability and four speakers, cloth low-back bucket seats, manual-tilt and telescoping steering wheel, dual-covered visor vanity mirrors and tire pressure warning lamp.

On the 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T standard parts features include the dual chromed rectangular exhaust tips, ABS, ESP, Brake Assist with vented brakes, 18-inch machined aluminum wheels with P225/60HR18 all-season touring tires, fog lamps, body-color exterior mirrors, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, illuminated visor vanity mirrors, rear body-color spoiler and cast-metal fuel door.

And the third model which is the 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 the standard features include a race-inspired interior featuring performance seats with a red accent stripe and added bolstering which keeps customers in place under spirited driving conditions, four-bomb gauges with tachometer and 180 mph speedometer in the center, “Performance Pages” reconfigurable display that features 0 – 60 mph, 1/4 mile, and 1/8 mile times, uconnect GPS, unique SRT-tuned ESP and ABS calibrations, 20-inch fully-forged aluminum wheels, red, painted Brembo brakes, hood with functional dual hood scoops, functional black painted rear spoiler and a unique exhaust note.

The pricing for the 2009 Dodge Challenger has been announced by Dodge. It will start at about $21,995, by U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price. Which will arrive this fall, it includes $675 for destination. Dodge dealers across the country are now taking orders for the 2009 Dodge Challenger.

If I just have enough bucks on my pocket, I’ll take any of these 2009 Dodge models. Aside from the fact that it is really modern, features are exceptional and really worth investing for. After all, Dodge is a renowned vehicle manufacturer. So, if I were you, I will no longer bother looking for other latest vehicle model. I will just opt for a Dodge Challenger to make my ride exemplary and convenient as to any point of destination I may choose to.

Wonder of a BMW M6 Convertible

2008-06-11T15:04:00.000-07:00

As I mingled with auto enthusiasts recently in an auto show, I heard some people complain about the shifting woes of the SMG gearbox. Other complains how poor the BMW M6 is off the line. Maybe so, but lets see any other car fly through sharp turns at 80+ mph. The handling of the BMW M6 is said to be tremendous to say the least. In tight traffic the car can weave in an out like it sewing a quilt. It does that without the M button engaged. To tell the truth, they say that the M button isn’t even necessary in M6. 500 hp is Lambo and Ferrari speed. Although it does surprise a Lamborghini or Ferrari driver that a BMW can keep pace with their car. But that is the reason that the M6 is so highly respected.

They say that one of the great things about this BMW M6 are it’s styling. Gone are the square mirrors that are present on a typical 6 series BMW. The M6 has curvaceous, ovular mirrors which, besides looking better are more aerodynamic. It has a M6 has a full body kit and a magnificent quad exhaust. Plus the M6 badge is emblazoned on the front fenders of the vehicle. The front air scoops devour air to keep the engine as well as the brakes from over heating.

The VW Eos Convertible

2008-06-11T13:02:00.000-07:00

Are up for a convertible? Well, this year, VW offers the convertible Eos giving a superb attention in terms of detail and structure. Volkswagen Company is proud of the fact that it has been able to fit a shorter, more upright windscreen, due to the car's excellent rigidity.

The car is guaranteed to be shake-free and with a refined VW muffler. With this, the ride will surely be supple unless you hit a deep pothole. The handling is tight and composed, and has good steering. With its fine insulation, the VW is made a great cruiser.

The Golf GTI-sourced 2.0-litre turbo is one of the popular engine choices for Eos. It gives speed effortless sound and crisp. With the use of this engine, the gearshift action is good too.

Volkswagen Company revealed that they had partly patterned Eos’ styling from the Golf and the Jetta. A huge difference lies on the fact that the Eos has a unique design of headlights. However, it borrowed the chrome grille from the Jetta. As a result, Eos does not look out of place along with Audi's desirable A4 Cabriolet, considering it shares a platform with the meek hatch, although lengthened, with a wider track, and redeveloped with components as well as Passat rear suspension.

As the premier VW folding hard-top, Eos has a five-piece folding roof and has been dubbed by VW a 'CSC' that stands for “coupe sunroof convertible”. This is basically because the front glass section of the amazing roof can be slid back to open up the elements, even if there is some cabin bluster. The car is offered with a choice of four petrol engines and one diesel, plus two trims - standard or Sport.
The Eos is completed like Vauxhall Astra TwinTop, Ford Focus CC, Volvo C70, Renault Megane CC and the Peugeot 307 CC.

The roof takes about 25 seconds to fold away. It is operated through a chrome lever behind the handbrake. Sacrificing some luggage space is a big “NO”. It drops from 380 liters to 205 liters. In addition, there's no facility to raise the roof within the boot when folded, to aid luggage access. The roof, however, which contains 470 components, is amazingly well packaged, allows a lot of light to get in the car and is fast to rise when rain clouds gather.

You can found in the interior are seats for four, with spacious knee clearance relaxing for those at the back, and an appealing cabin design. It is broadly Golf based, but a few individual touches set it apart. Seats and driving position are great too. Even better, running costs will be low; all variants are economical, inexpensive to service whether you choose fixed or variable intervals and retain a high proportion of their list price. The VW is, however, notably more expensive than key competitors, and the overall package is spoilt slightly by a mean one-year breakdown recovery deal.

Brooklyn’s premium cars!

2008-06-10T15:46:00.000-07:00

Nissan is indeed a renowned car manufacturer that makes car which are extremely extra-ordinary from others in terms of looks, design, comfort and performance under the name Infiniti. It is the dream of every car aficionado to own a car like Infiniti. Owning a luxury car is a matter of high status and Infiniti Brooklyn really adds a charm in the lifestyle of all those individuals who have ownership of such car. A luxury and lavish life attracts everyone and people are fascinated by it. So are they fascinated by a luxury and classy car. A classy and luxury adds glamour and grace to one’s lifestyle. Infiniti is the product of a famous car maker widely known as Nissan. Car lovers are pretty serious about having luxury, comfort, stylish looks and last but not the least is the performance.

A car buyer buys a car with the purpose for its efficiently working for a longer period of time. These cars are different from other cars and are famous for its unique look and feature. The designs of all Infiniti cars are so trendy that it attracts almost everyone’s attention. The car maker is famous for its performance and durability and so it works perfectly for a user for longer period of time. It has all the features that a car should have. Not only this, it has all the latest and hi-tec features that make it exclusive from the rest of cars in the world. The makers of Infiniti are very smart in using the most advanced technology that you cannot even imagine the results till you see them first hand. These cars have powerful engines that give a good performance. A powerful engine is the most essential part of any car as it increases its durability and life and so Infiniti cars are liked by almost every car buyers. The powerful engine makes the car working in even the toughest condition and enhances its life as well.

If you reside in Brooklyn, it is of no doubt to come across with different showrooms in the city. Infiniti Brooklyn showrooms are available in every arena of United States and any one can buy from any area. The showroom dealers cater to give the best service in buying your desired loving car. They will make you aware of various models and their respective features. Every car comes in various colors and this gives you flexibility to choose your favorite color in your car. The Infiniti models come with genuine parts that make its car in efficient working for years. Some popular models of Infiniti cars are G35, G37, Q45, M45, I35, G35 and many more. There are quite popular among the car lovers.

Nissan launches new cars in the Infiniti range from time to time and quite often it calls back some of its models. Well; the call back of a model can be due to various reason. It can be due to manufacturing defect or some technical problem or even a complaint. Infiniti gets a good ranking in the customer satisfaction and its users are very pleased with its service. If you have decided to buy an Infiniti car then make sure to get a test drive. Visit a nearest showroom to enjoy all the pleasures of buying a car. If you have low finance, then you can take assistance from a finance company that will make finance arrangement for you. You can also look for the used car that makes you to enjoy the pleasure of having an Infiniti car. If you are determined to own a premium car, there are lots of ways on which you can own one.

Jeep Grand Cherokee

2008-06-07T16:46:00.000-07:00

For more than 60 years Jeep has been providing drivers with amazing cars, ones that are to die for. Not only do these cars look great and fancy but they also provide the best performance. The quality of these vehicles is outstanding. The Jeep brand has been serving countries with a wide range of great rides from the start. With amazing four wheel drive capabilities, Jeep has put a smile on many drivers’ faces. From the olden day Jeeps that looked like they could have served in the First World War, to today’s newest technology jeeps, they are all fantastically manufactured.

Just three of these beauties are the Grand Cherokee Laredo, Grand Cherokee Overland and the Grand Cherokee SRT8. And then just a little bit of info on these;

Grand Cherokee Laredo This vehicle would suit anyone that likes to take pride in what they ride. It is a beautiful looking car that has body color rear and front fascias, the normal 17” good looking aluminum wheels and accent color body side molding.

Grand Cherokee Overland This is for the driver who likes to play hard and show off what they have. With its foam heated seats you will be sitting on, everyone’s going to want to get a ride. This jeep is kind of in between the three we are talking about, it’s not a contemptible vehicle but it’s not exquisitely fit for a queen, it’s just in between! Features of this hot ride include its beautiful suede and leather trim overstated on the seatbacks of the driver and passengers seats, and four 18” 7 spoke wheels.

Grand Cherokee SRT8 When many people first heard of the capabilities of this vehicle their response was simply, “wow”! And now we can see why. Some of this beauty’s features include; its 6.1 liter V-8 engine, new front fascia reduces lift and drag and of course, its ability to go to from 0 to 60 miles per hour, in 5 seconds! Wow!

Besides the grand features of these vehicles, they are also available in the most stunning colors; • Black • Stone White • Bright Silver Metallic • Brilliant Black Crystal • Jeep Green • Light Greystone • Midnight Blue • Magnesium • Steel Blue Metallic • Mineral Grey Metallic

Choose your Jeep Grand Cherokee in one of these fabulous colors and you won’t regret your decision. There are a lot of benefits of purchasing a Jeep Grand Cherokee, not only will you have all eyes on your car and the best driving experience but you will also be behind the wheel of the U.S Government’s highest rated vehicle for safety. The Jeep Grand Cherokee has the uppermost rating for crash testing of front impact. Other safety features include top of the range air-bags, anti- lock break system and ESP (electronic stability program). With all these safety measures it does not mean that you don’t have to wear your seat belt – you should have it securely fastened at all times while you are driving.

An Infiniti Car makes your dream come true

2008-06-07T15:35:00.000-07:00

Many of us love cars, right? Small or big cars, these amazing machines can definitely steal our breath away when on the road. There are several cars on the road but there is only one Infiniti car that not only makes our dream come true but also fulfills our desire of owning a luxury car. After all, one does not get to own an Infiniti car every day.

Infiniti car is all about magnificence statement that oozes a lot of style with a difference. It comes in a variety of sedan, coupe, saloon and sport utility models that actually can become owners pride and neighbor’s envy. What say, so get set and vroom with Infiniti Car! In fact, some buy cars for pleasure, some for hobbies and there are some who buy Infiniti Car for its magnificent body and style statement and the high it gives them, while speeding on the roads—to be precise its passion for them. Though, one can find several luxurious models running on the road, but none like the models offered by Infiniti. The Infiniti car is a quite a rage amongst people who believe in good keeping of the cars. As Infiniti car is a dream come true for many of enthusiasts.

However, owning a vehicle that has always fascinated you is an experience that can only be felt by a car lover of this mechanical beauty known as an Infiniti car. Earlier, buying a luxurious car was only a dream for those who could churn out big money and that too without any constraint. However, now it is easy to own a luxurious car, thanks to the discovery of financial services that makes impossible possible. One’s dream of owning an Infiniti car comes true and does not pinch the pocket much, if paying in the form of easy monthly installments. Now any one who wants to flaunt a luxury car can approach an Infiniti car dealer and drive home his or her dream car. In fact, a nominal down payment and burden free monthly installments can make you the proud owner of a classy Infiniti car. In addition, if you do not want to have a brand new Infiniti Car, but still want to possess one, then do not get disappointed, as there are other options in the form of pre-owned Infiniti car models. In fact, it will be a smart move as it will let you cut down on your expenses and lets you to own a good vehicle from a trusted dealer.

Infiniti car offers a wide range of models, such as QX 56, G35, FX 35 and 45 and M45. Its various models have a tauter, more buff look and performance oriented enhancements and does not compromise on the traditional style of Infiniti car. So go ahead and choose a beautiful yet masculine Infiniti car. Getting heads turned to your Infiniti car is an exhilarating experience as well as full of unforgettable moments. So take complete advantage of your Infiniti car and let the Infiniti car talk on the roads.

Young Drivers Are More At Risk Of Accidental Death

2008-06-06T16:33:00.000-07:00

Department for Transport revealed that eight out of ten accidental deaths involving 15 to 19 year old men in Great Britain are road casualties. With figures like this it is easy to see why car insurance premiums are higher for young drivers than for more experienced road users. Information released by the Department for Transport shows that everyday four people are killed or injured in accidents which involve younger motorists.

In a research report published by the Association of British Insurers (ABI) it’s revealed that: “In the last few years, the proportion of young drivers killed or seriously injured on our roads has increased, while the overall number of deaths and serious injuries has fallen.” The ABI have joined forces with Brake, RoadSafe, the Parliamentary Council for Transport Safety and the RAC Foundation. Together the organizations aim to make young motorists safer on the roads.

Young drivers are far more likely to be involved in a serious road accident than older motorists. 17 to 20 year old men are almost 5 times more likely to be in an accident which involves casualty than 30 to 59 year old men. In 2005 almost 1200 young drivers were killed or badly injured on British roads, that’s more than 3 each day. Almost 1 in 4 passengers who have suffered serious road accident injuries were the passenger of a young driver at the time.

Because of these higher accident statistics car insurance companies can only offer young drivers expensive insurance deals. Younger drivers are over twice more likely to need to make a claim than mature motorists. But more shockingly, the average cost of each claim made by a younger driver is three times greater. The ABI have said that the two main reasons for young drivers having more accidents are a lack of experience in different driving conditions and “an inclination to take unnecessary risks.”

“Many young drivers have a poor appreciation of road conditions and are unable to adapt their driving style where necessary.” The ABI’s research report says. The report also states that less experienced drivers often overestimate their ability and safety on the road. Accidents are especially likely to occur when young motorists are driving at night, driving on wet roads or negotiating bends.

Driving at night poses a threat to young drivers because according to the ABI report: “Driving in the dark requires different skills from driving during daylight hours. Drivers are also more likely to be under the influence of drink or drugs at night.

Consequently, over 50% of accidents involving young male drivers that result in death or serious injury occur at night, compared with 35% for older drivers.”
The report also says that: “Young drivers double their risk of death or serious injury when driving at night.” Young drivers negotiating bends suffer twice as many accidents as older drivers and 40% of accidents which involve young drivers occur on wet roads. The report also says that young people drive 11% faster on average than more experienced drivers and “excess speed increases the likelihood of an accident.”

Customized Collectibles

2008-06-05T15:50:00.000-07:00

Have you heard of Lowriders? Well, since the introduction of these, Lowriders have been an evolution and have taken the world by storm. They havetaken the mainstream automotive industry by surprise and no one seems to know where this world's number one auto trend came from. Generally, lowriders are highly modified classic cars or trucks, which ride at a very low level to the ground. Using the modern day hydraulics, users have height adjustable suspension. Most of the Lowriders are vintage cars ranging from 1940’s to 1960’s.

Lowering cars to almost the sidewalk level and customizing them dramatically has already been a status symbol. Lowriders duly signify prestige. In the 1940's people had to wait for Sundays just to catch a glimpse of a Lowrider. Soon enough Lowriders became a trademark for anyone seeking for attention or for someone cruising highways day after day. Lowrider cars are the ones that inspired the making of lowrider bicycles.

The creation of a lowrider is an art that’s evolved from using heavy weights and chopping springs to bring the vehicle’s body close to the ground; to modern day hydraulics that raise and lower the car, and also make it hop, and tilt it from side to side. Lowriders are designed with triple dipped chrome accessories, gold plating, stunning paint schemes, twin side pipes, spot lights, wire wheels, spinners and more. One can see a lot of vehicle makes, visual styles and a diverse mix of cultures in lowriders. A lowrider's internal parts are more likely to get damaged from road surface imperfections and obstructions.

Traditional low riders were made from cars of the 1960’s like Chevy Impala, Chevrolet Monte Carlo, Buick Regal, Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme, Lincoln Continentals, and Pontiac Grand Prix. At times they are radically modified and reduced into pure show cars.

Hot Rods on the other hand are typical American cars with large engines modified for linear speed, a compelling blend of vintage cars and today’s high performance engines. Car owners aim to modify their production car in the attempt to increase acceleration and top end speed. For most Americans restoring their vintage cars as hot rods is more of a national sport.

If you own vintage cars of the 40’s to 60’s these still have the potential to turn heads and that’s why there’s so much craze for Hot rods. Don’t you know that the traditional hot rodding concept was based on reusing original, old parts from the junkyard and remanufacturing cars that were popular from the 1940s through the 1960s? But the street rodding concept nowadays is based on building or getting cars built with new parts.

In modifying a vintage car to a hot rod – one of the things is to reduce the weight of the vehicle by removing certain parts. That’s why hot rods have abundance of chrome parts and minimalistic chassis with no roof, hood, bumpers, seats, windscreens or fenders. Sometimes the original engines are replaced by high speed ones and tires are fattened up for extra traction. Most hot rods are typically painted with a design of flames behind the front wheels. Building a hot rod requires skills in mechanics, welding, automotive paint and body work.

Hot rods catered to the rebellion and attention seeking needs of American teenagers these modern days. The modifications of hot rods are a vent to the frustrations of conventional styling. Hot rodding is an art work that replenishes the golden past with the present day high speed performance. Hot rods are indeed a display of American pride. So, if you own a classic car and opting to sell it, well better think twice for you can transform it into a unique and amazing machine that is sure to be a head turner on the road!

R.C cars for family activity!

2008-06-04T16:48:00.000-07:00

Are you a car addict? If you are one, well, our interest is hooked in one. Aside from real cars where I am fascinated, I also love reading and writing about toy cars. Actually, I have stated on the first post that I do have collections of car magazines and toy cars. To feed my fascination on toy cars, this is the high time to write about R.C cars. Have you heard of such? Well, no matter if you're a beginner or an experienced builder when you race Remote Control Cars, the rush is certainly around! You will certainly have fun, excitement and superior driving experience.

Remote Control cars and trucks happen to be a progressively trendy hobby specifically pre-made for both nitro or gas powered RC cars and electric R.C. cars and trucks. Why is that exactly? Due to the fact that there are many people who are at work several hours a day and they simply do not have time and energy to give putting together a toy car or truck as a spare-time activity.

Driving R.C. cars and trucks is a family activity; from a five year old to someone 100 years old, just about every age loves this hobby. You'll be able to race your car on your neighborhood sidewalk, or through the alley close to your home. With speeds up to seventy mph, tracks placed in many larger cities, and racing clubs around the world, it should be simple to see why Driving RC cars and trucks is an international interest.

DIESEL cars Myth

2008-06-04T15:46:00.000-07:00

Way back before, Richard A. Wright, said, “The first oil crisis in 1973 shook us, The second in 1978 scared us, scared us so bad that car buyers were willing to ignore the diesel's noise, fumes, smell and iffy cold-weather starting to get the benefit of its good fuel economy.” (Most of these problems with the diesel have since been solved.)

“Sales of passenger cars powered by diesels grew rapidly, peaking in 1981 at 520,788. Some 60 percent of those diesel cars were built by General Motors. That was 10 percent of GM sales that year. For other makers, diesels were a bigger factor. They accounted for almost 85 percent of Peugeot sales in the United States, 78 percent of Mercedes-Benz sales, 58 percent of Isuzu sales and almost half of Volkswagen sales. Diesel passenger cars were also sold by Audi, Volvo and Datsun in 1981.

“Then there were problems with GM's diesels. Blocks cracked and crankshafts wore prematurely. Critics complained that it was just a converted gasoline engine and clubs of disgruntled owners sprang up and lawsuits were filed. Tougher emission standards caused problems for all diesel makers. Hammering the final nail in the diesel's coffin, the price of gasoline began to decline. So did diesel sales. GM, which had been so bullish on diesels, ended production in 1985. Gasoline prices fell to the lowest levels ever, in terms of real dollars. The government's cheap gasoline policies have kept the price low, except for occasional spikes to remind us how vulnerable we are.”

And perhaps due to this, many people have instead considered purchasing vehicles that were capable of running on the least expensive fuels, among which is diesel. However, statistics have really shown that despite diesel vehicles being one of the most cost efficient ones in the market, many have started choosing those units that were powered by really expensive fuels. This can be quite a sad situation given that people could have used their funds on other things like purchasing some Ford Courier parts to replace the worn out parts or rather purchasing some items for the household.

Aside from these, there are also some myths going on that diesel vehicles are quite few in the market. But if you would go ahead and do some research yourself, you would discover that diesel vehicles are aplenty. In fact, for the years 1960 up until 2002, there is quite a huge range of those units that run on diesel fuel.

As per what kind of future would these diesel vehicles have, that would still be the question. The sales have gone slow for the last decade or so. However, current trends do say that the graph is spiking once again. Who knows? The glory days of diesel vehicles might still come back.

The FUSS about HYBRID CARS!

2008-06-03T13:43:00.000-07:00

It is a fact that people simply loves hybrid cars, do you agree? They love hybrid cars because of the benefits it can give them, to the other people and the environment. So, what is it about hybrid cars that it is now attracting more and more people to get one for their own?

First and foremost, if you have a hybrid car, you will be able to cut fuel consumption in half. (yeah!) When was the last time you pulled your car over to a pumping station? If you recently did, you will notice that the price of gasoline is on a constant rise. As compared to conventional cars, hybrid cars will enable you to cut fuel consumption in half. This means that you’ll have fewer trips to the gasoline station. Just imagine yourself driving a car that can travel more than 60 miles per gallon. This may sound good enough for you to get a hybrid car, but there are more benefits that you can get from hybrid cars.

Way back in 2005, President George Bush has signed an agreement that lets the buyers and users of hybrid car enjoy huge tax breaks. Because of this, you will be able to save money on taxes. Another great benefit that you can get when you have a hybrid cars are free parking, and some states have imposed a law that hybrid cars should be discounted on toll gates. (Imagine that, huh!)

Hybrid cars are also known to emit far lower levels of pollutants in the air. This means less air pollution. This will also mean that it will tend to reduce the effects of global warming and will enable you and other people to breathe cleaner air.

These are just some of the things that hybrid cars can offer you. You will now ask what kind of technology is inside hybrid cars that makes it so fuel efficient and environmentally friendly.

Hybrid cars are integrated with the hybrid technology currently existing today. In fact, hybrid technology has existed for a long time. It is used on locomotives, it is used on submarines and it is used in some buses in some states and countries.

Hybrid technology is a combination of electricity and the standard engine. For example, in locomotives, it combines the diesel engine and electric engine, and in submarines, it combines the nuclear engine and electric engine. This is far more efficient than letting the conventional engine run on its own.

In hybrid cars, it combines the energy of gasoline engines and an electric motor to power the car. This means that with both engines running, it will lessen the load on the internal combustion engine. The electric motor will share the labor. With this technology it will allow you to save precious fuel and also let you emit far lower volumes of toxic fumes in the air.

For example, if your hybrid car is running idle, it will automatically switch off the gasoline engine and let the car run on pure electricity. This can save you a lot of fuel especially if you are stuck in a gridlock traffic jam.

Today, there are hybrid cars that are designed to run even when the gasoline engine is switched off. This kind of hybrid car will eventually get rid of gasoline station trips. And, it will let you travel without emitting toxic fumes. The gasoline engine will only act as a backup engine when the battery pack runs out of power. The braking and the engine will automatically recharge the battery pack preparing it for another purely electric run. This means that you don’t actually have to plug in your hybrid car to your electrical outlet for it to recharge.

So, if you need a car that runs cleaner, quieter and far more fuel efficient, you should consider getting a hybrid car.

Quiet Cars

2008-05-31T16:58:00.000-07:00

American car buyers have always been known for their preference for high performance vehicles. Aside from offering the essentials, their vehicle of choice needs to have at least a small degree of luxuriousness. Luxury aside, car buyers also opt for high performance vehicles which come with a responsive handling and very comfortable seats.

Recently though, the American International Automobile Dealers Association (AIADA) reported that car buyers are now changing their preferences and are also looking for another special attribute that a vehicle should possess. The association reported that drivers are becoming more and more enamored with silent cars.

The Wall Street Journal reported that the main cause of a vehicle’s noise is its age. As a vehicle ages, just like humans, it exhibits flaws which may even result to car breakdowns. The international daily newspaper cited that the worst cause of noise in vehicles is wind. This actually refers to that sound that is produced when the wind flows over the outline of the vehicle.

This is why car makers are looking to decrease the coefficient of drag of their vehicles. Lowering the coefficient of drag not only gives the car a good appearance but it also increases the top speed and lowers the amount of noise produced by the wind flowing over the vehicle.

The noise as the car ages has always been one of the problems of automobiles. Car manufacturers are already taking steps to address the problem. Some of the players in the auto industry that has taken steps to combat wind noise are General Motors, Hyundai, and Ford. These car companies are developing new materials to user on their vehicles to reduce the noise reaching the interior of the vehicle.

Aside from using new materials, these companies are also working out new manufacturing techniques to further improve noise reduction. Noise control engineers are also being employed by these companies to oversee the development of quiet cars. Hyundai, the biggest Korean car maker, is using electronically controlled adjustable engine mounts in the new Veracruz sport utility vehicle. Aside from the adjustable motor mount which is as tough as a Volvo rotor, the Korean brand also integrated extra thick lightweight foam insulations on the said SUV. The insulation reduces the amount

Nissan GTR 2008

2008-05-31T15:54:00.000-07:00

The new Nissan GTR for 2008 was unveiled recently and has hit the streets of Japan. You can also see these thunderous giant in local used car auctions this summer. This development is a multi-performance-super car. The Nissan GTR 2008 model is a sleek looking vehicle that has a twin turbo V6-engine performing all wheel drive. This beast has a premium midship package with fully balanced gravitational down-force.

In terms of performance, the new Nissan GTR is equipped with a handcrafted turbo charged 3.8Ltr engine V6 24Valve. It generates a thundering horsepower of 480PS @ 6,400 rpm with a top speed of 193 mph. It has dual overhead camshafts with variable intake-valve timing. With a unique Nissan Direct Ignition system and fully symmetrical dual intake a low-back pressure exhaust system has given an edge to its earlier models. Other unique features include aluminium pistons, electronic drive-by-wire throttle, super low-friction cylinder block and iridium-tipped spark plugs.

The interior of the Nissan GTR 2008 is indeed a luxurious ride. With seats that are covered in velour cloth and are power or manually adjustable, you can easily drive or ride around in comfort in this car. The interior also features a front sliding armrest and a rear center armrest for those long cruising drives. Other features that the Nissan GTR 2008 has include power door locks, power windows, fine vision meters and cruise controls. It also has all modern HDD Navigation and AM/FM/CD audio with 6 speakers. Nissan safety includes Seat-mounted side-impact supplemental air bags and as well as Roof-mounted side-impact supplemental air bags.

Very few many people know this fact; although I’m not Japanese I know that buying Japanese used cars of latest models is one of the best deals you can ever get. It is because Japanese car imports are of the highest quality due to the constant vehicle changes Japanese consumers go through. This constant change in cars in Japan is because of the high cost of re-registration and evaluation that their vehicles have to go through, making buying new vehicles easier for them than maintaining an older one. Used car dealers in Japan get quite a large number of these top quality Japanese used cars which they sell at very competitive prices. Buying a Japanese used car is a very good deal since they are almost brand new due to the low mileage on them. Japanese car imports will surely bring over some of the newer car models that have been traded up for other vehicles in Japan, giving you a chance to own a relatively new car for the fraction of what it should cost.

Jaw-Breaking Cars Geneva Motor Show

2008-05-31T14:51:00.000-07:00

If Motor shows are being talked about Geneva radiates nothing short of breathtaking and the cars jaw-breaking. The said show showcases latest production vehicles, concept cars, supercars and sports cars.

An auto aficionado could not possibly get enough of the offers of the Geneva Motor Show nonetheless there are few autos that could make him astonished for awhile. The 2007 Geneva Show stars like the Saab Aero X concept, the Rinspeed zaZen, and the Porsche 911 GT3.
The Saab Aero X concept is considered to be one of the biggest surprises in the auto show. Inspired by the aviation heritage of the automaker, the concept car features a massive canopy encircling the front windscreen, roof and doors that tilts and rotates forward. The style is resorted to by Saab to allow access to the cabin. To some, the concept car from Saab is deemed to be an extraordinary supercar.

Within this supercar is a twin-turbo V6 engine that runs on 100 percent bioethanol fuel and produces 400bhp. The fuel is sustainable energy source that diminishes CO2 emissions. If the supercar is produced, it will be engineered to showcase four-wheel drive and hit 62mph from rest in 4.9 seconds. Nevertheless, an enthusiast could not think anymore about the car figures, with its stunning look anybody’s attention can be captured at once or without them even knowing about it.

Another stunning car that can capture your attention is the Rinspeed zaZen. The extraordinary concept car from Rinspeed needs no further description. With its single piece transparent teardrop Porsche 911-based roof design, no one would doubt its potentials for a head-turner car.
The zaZen’s innovative roof was developed by Bayer Material Science using high tech plastics. The roof of the concept car could have stolen the headlines these past few days but seeing it up close is more than stunning. Rinspeed calls the roof of the vehicle a 'crystal skin' because millions of tiny Swarovski crystals are embedded in the surface. Swarovski crystals are also featured on the front and rear lights, as well as the side indicators. The use of crystals is one of zaZen’s factors that made it dazzling. Inside the concept car are transparent sports seats and a delicious mango orange finish.

Aside from the zaZen, many jaws will definitely be slackened by the Porsche 911 GT3. The car is equipped with neater nose and more stunning. The Porsche 911 GT3 is a high performance version of the 911. The car is based on the automaker’s GT3 race car.
Other cars that may turn show stars include the Audi A5, BMW M3, Dodge Demon concept, Fiat 500, Ford Mondeo, Honda Small Hybrid Sports Concept, Kia ex_cee'd concept, Maserati GranTurismo, Mazda Hakaze concept, MINI Clubman, Toyota Hybrid X and the Vauxhall Corsa VXR.

On this motor show, Nissan had unveiled an equally-gorgeous updated version of the 350Z. The thrilling sports car from the automaker features the next generation 3.5 V6 engine. About 80 percent of major engine parts are new. And to improve responsiveness and acceleration, Nissan brake caliper is integrated to the car’s system.

Well, with cars like these, no passionate aficionado would dare miss any of the Geneva Motor Shows.

Eccentric Cars – The coolest cars on Earth

2008-05-30T15:39:00.000-07:00

They are rare, eccentric and extraordinary. Nonetheless, those attributes do not keep your fantasies from drifting - the cravings keep you company. They are cool and amazing. These are the reasons that made the cars etched in the mind of aficionados. They are not on the mainstream then, but they steadfastly wowing enthusiasts from the past up until the present.

When car eccentricity is being talked about, one of the models that will come to mind is the Countach from Lamborghini. Countach was a supercar produced in 1973 and lasted until its production was halted in 1990. It popularized the wedge-shaped, sharp angled style that some high performance cars currently still use until now. In Countach’s time, kids and adults alike are swept by this Italian supercar. But the car hexed oddness that attracted only a significant few. It was bordering on tasteless. In fact, the automaker itself disclosed that Ferrari owners think Lambos are props for the nouveau riche attention pursuit.

The Lamborghi Countach styling was penned by Marcello Gandini of the Bertone design studio, famed for his striking design. The trademark of the car is its 'scissors' fashion doors with hinges. The doors could be tilted forwards or lifted up. Eventually, the car’s visual impression and design made it an iconic car in the industry.

On the roads, one eccentric car that could obviously catch everyone’s interest is Ford Motor Corporation's Mustang. The prototype styling of the car is designed by Donald N. Frey but the remodeled four-seat car version was created by David Ash and Joseph Oros in Ford's Lincoln–Mercury Division design studios. Most of Mustang’s mechanical parts were taken from its sibling Falcon however; its body shell was entirely different from the latter. Mustang boasts of its "torque box," an auto innovative structural system that stiffened the body of the car to promote better handling. Ford cold air intake, engine, brakes, fenders and other body parts integrated to the car are designed to boost its eccentricity, appeal and performance.

General Motors’ Chevrolet Corvette also has a legion of aficionados. Corvette, produced since 1953, this was the first all-American sports car built by an American automaker. Corvettes radiate both power and style. Powerful engines like the LS2 producing 400 horsepower and the LS7 with 505 horsepower run the car. Corvettes put emphasis on technical intricacy and minimalism.

Other eccentric stunners on the roads include the Porsche 911, the Jeep Wrangler, the Mini Cooper, the Dodge Challenger and the Volkswagen Beetle. The coolest eccentric cars include new race cars, supercars, and other exotic vehicles. Luxury cars like the Lincoln Continental and the Cadillac Eldorado are also deemed members of the “cult.”

The coolest eccentric cars on the other hand list include the DeLorean DMC, with a one-of-a-kind trendy shape; the Lamborghini Miura and the Mercedes-Benz 300SL with the Gullwing philosophy; Plymouth Fury; Pontiac,Catalina; Chevy Bel Air; old-school Oldsmobiles and other aircraft carriers with outrageous angular design.

The AC Cobra and the Ford Deuce Coupe also made it to the list. In regard to brands BMW one of the leaders of stylish and exotic cars. BMW’s M1, Z1 and Z8, manufactured in limited numbers, have captivated even the unconventional enthusiasts. Jaguar, a Scandinavian luxury brand, flaunts the E-Type. The latter emerges on almost all lists of the domineering sports cars.

Aston Martins, Bentleys, Maybachs, Rolls-Royces, and the all-time favorite Ferraris would never skip any list of the coolest and most eccentric cars in planet earth. Though they are pricey, they are sumptuous, prevailing and universally praised. any of these mentioned eccentric cars is indeed a good catch.

Lamborghini and Ferrari’s rivalry!

2008-05-29T16:58:00.001-07:00

When we talk about Ferrari, Lamborghini projects a clear image of power and wealth for those who own one of these super vehicles. This is an Italian company founded by Ferruccio Lamborghini in 1963. It can be said that this car manufacturing company is fairly new, but it has kept an excellent quality and performance record which rivals that of Ferrari.

Unlike Ferrari's founder (Enzo Ferrari), Lamborghini's founded did not have a passion for racing cars like Enzo did, quite the contrary, Ferruccio Lamborghini had a tractor factory!. This tractor factory was indeed the financial base used to create the car company Lamborghini.

The origins of the company as told by Ferruccio Lamborghini's son is quite amazing. It turns out that Ferruccio went to meet Enzo Ferrari at his factory to complain about the quality of the clutch in the Ferrari 250 GT which he owned at the time (this is a sports car model of the 1950's). Enzo Ferrari then sent him away by telling him to go drive tractors because he didn't know how to drive cars. Lamborghini then had his Ferrari's clutch dismantled and realized that the clutch manufacturer was the same company which provided the clutches for his tractors! Lamborghini then found a spare part in his warehouse which the thought might solve the problem and voila! It did the job indeed. Ever since, Lamborghini became unsatisfied Ferrari client and aimed to beat Ferrari in his own game.

Ferruccio then decided that his cars would have a V12 engine so he hired Giotto Bizzarrini who worked under Ferrari's engine development team in the past.

And as it turns out, Ferrari and Lamborghini are two automotive groups which are considered rival companies, and equivalents in quality as well as price.

Ever since its creation, Lamborghini has experienced continuous sales growth. It's cars are among the most powerful, expensive and exclusive in the world, they feature several exclusive characteristics such as high tech V10 - V12 engines, carbon fiber construction and custom styling by the most prestigious automotive designers such as: Franco Scaglione, Zagato, Marcello Gandini, etc.

Among the most recent popular models produced by this company we have: the V12 Lamborghini Diablo reaching a maximum speed of 330km/h; the V12 Lamborghini Murcielago; the V10 Gallardo; the V12 Murcielago LP640 and last but not the least the one of a kind Lamborghini Reventon debuted at the 2007 Frankfurt Auto show. This vehicle manufacturer is without a doubt one of the best in the world

The Spada Codatronca

2008-05-29T16:50:00.000-07:00

Designed and produced by the Italian design house Spada Concept in conjunction with the tuning firm UK Garage, the newest supercar -- the Spada Codatronca, might just be the car you had in mind.

What is really this SpadaConcept all about? Well, it is the same design studio responsible for designing such classics as the Aston Martin DB4, Fulvia Sport Zagato –to name a few. Ercole Spada and his son, Paolo Spada, who also happens to be the company’s new design director, reportedly drew influences from their original 1965 Alpha Romeo TZ that also featured a fin-like rear called the "Kamm tail coda tronca" design.

Now, Spada have released full technical details of their exciting new limited-production supercar, called the Codatronca. according to the company’s website, this is available in three hand-crafted versions, two of which will be fully road homologated super cars, the TS (Turismo Sportivo) and the TSV (Turismo Sportivo Veloce); with a third race destined option, the TSS (Turismo Super Sportivo), which was described by the Italian firm as "the finest race version which will be delivered soon."

Based on the Chevy Corvette, the Codatronca features heavy Mako Shark infuence in the front end design. It is a front-mid-engined, rear wheel drive two-door coupé featuring a very lightweight aluminum spaceframe structure combined with a magnesium roof section and similar composite treatment for the engine cradle.
Its engine is a tweaked Corvetta C6's aluminium block V8, and cylinder head comes with an eight-quart dry-sump lubrication system, titanium valves and connecting rods. Spada likewise fits twin Rotrex superchargers, dual intercoolers, sequential fuel injection and a boosted compression ratio of 11:1. This combination delivers an impressive 600 hp at 6,300 rpm and 790 Nm of torque at 4,600. The power is channeled through the rear wheels via a short-throw 6-speed manual.

According to Spada, the "base" Codatronca TS, reaches top a speed of 330 km/h and 0-100 km/h (62mph) time of 3.2 seconds. The lighter-weight (1380kg) and more powerful (700hp) TSV track version, says the company, is set to deliver a top speed of 355 km/h and an astounding 2.7 second 0-100 km/h time.
A lot of netizens have already commented on the Codatronca’s styling. This will definitely take you off your feet.

The Mean and Green 3-Wheel Bonning Roadster

2008-05-28T15:34:00.000-07:00

A unique Aussie roadster changes the notion that green cars could not be created to be mean. The 3-wheel Bonning Roadster is aimed at proving that mean and green could go together and that being an environment-friendly car does not hinder having a high performance.

This Bonning Roadster delivers supercar performance and true sports car character in a compact economy car. The car is engineered to consume a miserly amount of gasoline and other alternative fuels like hydrogen and methanol derived from household waste.

The roadster weighs 400 kilograms and that is about half of the weight of the smallest hatchback. The car boasts remarkable acceleration of 90 kW and around 200 km/h top speed. Bonning Roadster is penned by Brad Bonning, a Queensland’s automotive designer and oil painter. Bonning has developed the car from a pedal-powered car he had created for driver training.

The factor that influenced the roadster’s outstanding performance and handling is its weight. Bonning used a combination of an aluminium two-seater body and a commanding, motorcycle-derived engine to produce a vehicle that weighs a little more than a large motorcycle.

Hence, to some critics, Bonning's most notable feature is not its fuel or its performance but its attention-grabbing minimalist bodywork. An auto critic said that, “The styling and the chassis engineering are the product of Bonning's intuitive engineering and fabrication skills, and the unpainted aluminium panels are testament to his high standards.”

Bonning have been entertained detailed refinements since he first turned a wheel a bit over a year ago, and the prototype is being fitted with lights and other equipment needed for registration as a road car. The 3-Wheel Bonning Roadster was showcased at the Melbourne Motor Show in Australia. The roadster was also a stunner at the Motor Show Cavalcade at Federation Square which was held on 28 February.

A roadster is a two-seat, open car usually without the side windows. At present, the word is often used to describe a two-seat convertible without fixed window frames and is often used to describe a light-weight sports car. The roadster is generally equipped with high-performing engines complemented by EBC Redstuff or other powerful auto parts to boost efficiency. Car purchasers in the present milieu go for comfy, convenient and fun to drive vehicles. When it comes to purchasing roadsters, enthusiasts wanted a purebred driving machine that is made to race and not to cruise.

The current roadster trend clearly emphasizes the new direction that auto purchasers are taking. This is why automakers are stressing weight when it comes to the manufacture of roadsters. Some roadsters, to achieve utmost performance, have to take a good diet to slash extra pounds. Automakers are now reducing features of roadsters which include the power steering, the navigation system and the automatic climate control to strip excess fats off the car.

At present, one of the famed manufacturers of roadsters is Mercedes. The automaker is now formulating a head-zone heating system. Lorinser, also a popular manufacturer, has earlier introduced its front windshield spoiler for the SL that deflects air stream and reduces possibly annoying air whirls inside the roadster. According to critics, these features dilute the roadster driving experience by taking away some of the greatest, most admired and most respected qualities of roadsters. They added that some of the automakers have completely unable to leave things as original and uncompromising as they were intended once. This fact leaves a note of vigilance to the purchasers. They have to select according to their needs and not to succumb to anything less. Indeed Green 3-Wheel Bonning Roadster can be an excellent purchase.

Ferrari Hype builds up with 599 GTB Fiorano

2008-05-27T16:38:00.000-07:00

Ferrari has recently adopted the latest technology using the tested all-aluminum construction for the body and chassis. This was incorporated in the 599 GTB Fiorano Ferrari, which was officially presented to the public last Geneva Motor Show. Said construction gave the latest model of Ferrari the elegant yet aggressive façade.

Aside from the appearance, 599 GTB Fiorano Ferrari has also adopted advanced aerodynamic solutions to attain high performance of the car. The latest from Ferrari is a symbol of its advanced production as well as its classics. It replaces the line of berlinettas which was introduced a decade ago.

Amedeo Felisa, Ferrari’s Vice General Manager described the birth of the latest model which was developed in Maranello. “The new car is a concentration of Ferrari’s most innovative and technologically advanced engineering solutions applied to a mid-front engined two-seater coupé. The result is a new benchmark for performance, driver involvement and design. The Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano boasts class-leading power thanks to its 5,999cc V12 - derived directly from the Enzo Ferrari supercar – which produces no less than 620hp at 7,600 rpm for a weight/power ratio of just 2.6 kg per horsepower,” Felisa said.

Fiorano has the most powerful V12-engine from Ferrari. It also has a magnetorheological suspension system. By applying an electronically controlled magnetic field, the latter can adjust the dampers. The interior seat features of 599 GTB Fiorano are composed of the traditional horizontal perforated pleats with bespoke built-in luggage on the back shelf. It also has vertical headlamps for a stronger appeal and expression. Moreover, the most interesting area is the separate composite rear buttress. The latter is designed to allow the cabin glass to flow in a droplet shape.

In a nutshell, 599 GTB Fiorano has a classic look of Ferrari auto parts with its innovative aerodynamic elements, gorgeous curves and significant shutlines. These are the reasons why Ferrari lingers with power.

Super Car…an overview

2008-05-27T16:29:00.000-07:00

Out of being inquisitive, have you asked yourself of what makes a car a supercar?
Well, asking this question is like asking, what makes a woman beautiful, on which everyone has their own opinion.

The term supercar was coined to describe those extremely expensive, extremely beautiful and extremely fast cars. Hence, the proper use of this term is often subjective and disputed, especially among afficionados. There is actually no clear definition of what characteristics a car must have to be called a supercar. What constitutes a supercar is often a matter of opinion. Also, the use of the term is heavily dependent on the era - a car that is considered to be a supercar at one time may lose its superiority in the future.

It is also important to know that the term supercar refers to factory-built, usually unmodified, street-legal cars. Heavily modified and potentially street - illegal vehicles do not fall into the supercar category. Supercars are not muscle cars or tuned up sports cars. And there is no such thing as a cut price supercar.

A supercar is a car that has a combined speed, handling, unique design and represents the pinnacle of the automaker's art. Supercar is the car equivalent of a supermodel or a race horse. There are, of course, some basic criteria for measuring whether a car should be considered a supercar or not. And the things to be considered are the design, acceleration, top speed, handling, power-to-weight ratio, style, rarity, and price - all of these has to be super in a supercar.
Want an example of a supercar? Well, the prime manifestation of this is the Bugatti Veyron.

Bugatti Veyron is currently the most expensive (around $1.5 million) and fastest fully street legal car in the world. The Guinness Book of World Records included Bugatti Veyron under the heading as Fastest Production Car. With 1001 horsepower this supercar champion features all the most recent automotive advancements and is able to achieve a top speed of 253 mph (407km/h). This is faster than any production car ever made; it is actually faster than Formula 1 cars. Supercars are not just fast, they are blazingly fast.

Other supercars include: Koenigsegg CCX, Pagani Zonda, McLaren F1, Saleen S7 Twin Turbo, Enzo Ferrari, Lamborghini Murcielago and so on.

On the fun side, if you have doubts whether a car is a supercar or not, better consider this: A car might be a supercar if - you have a wallpaper or a poster of it, it's worth more than your house, you drool when you see one, it can break the speed limit in 1st gear, you will probably never own one, but if you do, you would never give the keys to the valet.

Indeed, a supercar is a car that changes your idea of what a car is and what a car can do.

Flying Cars, Are they for Real?

2008-05-24T14:23:00.000-07:00

Can you imagine riding on a car wherein instead of moving forward, the car begins to lift upward? Well, this is not an imagination for it is for real! When Doctor Paul Moller founded the Moller Institute in 1983, the idea of a flying car remained in the world of fantasy and Sci-fi enthusiasts. But today, Dr. Moller's dream of commuter transportation using the sky has moved from the imagination to the first stages of reality. And now, the Moller Institute through Freedom Motors (formed by Moller) has produced the MX-400, a futuristic looking sky-car that can take off vertically and get speeds of 350 mph. Its engine is light weight, producing less emissions than conventional motors, but has a drawback...it only get 15 miles per gallon.

The Moller Sky Car is not the only flying car in production. Flying cars or Personal Air Vehicles (PAV) are personal vehicles that can be maneuvered both on the road and in the sky. And aside from the Moller Sky Car there are at least four other PAV's under development. The Transition by Terrafugia Inc, the Haynes Aero Skyblazer by Haynes Aero, the FSC-1 by LaBiche Aerospace, the Magic Dragon , by Strong Mobile, and the Moller M400 Skycar by Moller International are changing the face of the vehicular transportation industry.

This change moves the concept and potential that has long been held only by the military to "car manufacturers." The implication of these projects are many and may very well complicate the transportation industry, city planning, and aviation for years to come.

Flying Vertically

Not all future flying cars use Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) technology, but it sure has made the ones that do stand out amongst the crowd. This innovation allows the PAV to lift off instead of take off, making it more like a heli-car than a flying car.

VTOL has been in use by the US Military for some time, most notably in the form of the harrier jet. What's remarkable is that both the Moller Sky Car and the X-Hawk use this same technology in their "for driveway vehicles." There are some drawbacks to VTOL, like the price, but the advantages of VTOL technology in flying cars are obvious-no runways needed. It reminds one of that now famous line Doc Brown says to Marty at the end of Back to the Future: "Roads? Where we're going, we don't need roads."

The Future is in the Sky
Ever since society moved into motorized travel, the sky has been the final frontier of personal travel. It is only natural that as technology advances, car designs will develop that incorporate and amalgamate the ideas and dreams held within us.

With the increasing movement towards creating the next generation of vehicles, the sky is the most likely target. From Moller to LaBiche Aerospace, intense energy has begun to be put into lifting the everyday person into the sky. Whether future flying cars will be used for commuting or recreation, the possibilities are endless. With profound implications for society and the environment, the flying car's effects are just beginning to be felt.

A Special Edition Package to Combat Global Warming

2008-05-23T14:21:00.000-07:00

It was years ago when Chrysler company introduced the Global Electric Motorcars, the first battery-electric vehicles that ever exist. And just recently, the company is proud to commemorate its 1oth anniversary. That goes with a special edition package which is for a limited time only.

So what’s with this special edition package that makes it interesting? It’s no other than but the GEM battery-electric vehicles which come in various models: the GEM e2, GEM e4, and the GEM e6 models, and all of these feature 14" polished aluminum wheels*, chrome headlamp bezels, front and rear chrome bumpers, a deluxe steering wheel, tilt steering, premium carpeted floor mats, and premium two-toned seats among many other options and accessories are all in one package.

It doesn’t just end there because this special edition package is also proud to boast its special edition emblems along with its premium Glacier Blue hood color that complements well to the look of the vehicle itself, transforming it to a more unique look.

A head-turner, that is, this special edition package of GEM vehicles is definitely a great buddy you can have with on the road. With just the sight of its superior design and exceptional detail, you already know that you have found the best choice available. There are ten premium options that are exclusive for GEM battery-electric models. Plus, the seventeen other popular GEM options can perfectly create an awesome driving experience.

The versatility isn’t enough to boast for these GEM battery-electric vehicles because there’s more than that. It also boasts its practicality that provides many important benefits to your daily driving needs. They certainly render impacts that come from each model’s curved open design, onboard charger, fully assembled in the United States, tested at the Chrysler Automotive Proving Grounds, and over 150 dealerships nationwide and around the world.

Focusing on the curved, open design, people can tell how spacious the interior that every GEM battery-electric vehicle features and how this can protect the passengers from the harsh elements with completely closing them in. It has 47 to 109 cubic feet of cab space, which is however depends on the vehicle model. But all in all, it features a unique design that many would drool for once they get to see its interior feature.
Of course, convenience and reliability has to go with the uniquely designed GEM battery-electric vehicles. That’s why an onboard charger is perfectly equipped in every model to allow you to recharge your vehicle just by plugging into any standard 110-volt outlet, wherever you go.
You can’t ask for more when it comes to quality and durability because these GEM battery-electric cars are built in Fargo, North Dakota by Global Electric Motorcars, a Chrysler company, primarily with U.S. supplier components.While vehicles like these are considered as low-speed vehicles, these are still able to undergo the rigorous testing of the other full-function vehicles at the Chrysler Automotive Proving Grounds. So how can you be assured that each GEM battery-electric vehicle model promotes safety, quality and design? Each has gone through thousands of miles that are accumulated on GEM test products so you are certain to have all those top priorities you consider in driving your car.

When it comes to availability, GEM battery-electric vehicles can be purchased in over 150 GEM dealerships. It won’t eat much of your time to find one because every GEM model is easy to find and can be ordered or purchased directly from selected Chrysler dealerships in your area. So as soon as you get the chance, grab one now; it’s for your own good; for everyone’s good as well.

GEM Battery-Electric Vehicles on the Go

2008-05-22T14:20:00.000-07:00

If speed is important to car racers, today’s Global Warming issue had led to the development of fuel alternatives to be able to combat the destruction of our Mother Earth, and those alternatives are classified as low speed vehicles. Included in this movement is the GEM Motors. People behind this cause have developed the GEM battery-electric vehicles, which are classified as low-speed vehicles or others call these as the neighborhood electric vehicles. All these low-speed running vehicles are now street legal in nearly all 50 states on public roads posted at 35 mph or less.

The top speed to reach is 25 mph which is equivalent for these GEM battery-electric vehicles a range of up to 30 miles on a charge. Hence, they are great to be used in traveling around neighborhoods, city centers or job sites.

So what’s with these GEM battery-electric cars that made them outstanding in combating the Global Warming issue? Operating on a 72-volt battery system, plugging a standard 110-volt outlet, these vehicles have turned out to be really amazing, and not to mention, a great alternative to fuel operated automobiles. Not just that, GEM battery-electric vehicles can also be recharged anytime, anywhere a 110-volt outlet is available. The recharging will only take you an approximately six to eight hours. The idea that comes with these battery-electric cars won’t just allow us to save Mother Earth, but can also help us save from the increasing fuel expenses everyday. Who wouldn’t get interested with these GEM battery-electric cars? So if you are among them who would wish to have one or two of these vehicles, you can have wide options to choose from. Yes, a lot of GEM battery-electric car models are now open in the market today. These GEM car models include the GEM e2 two-passenger, the GEM e4 four-passenger, the GEM e6 six-passenger, the GEM eS two-passenger with a short-back bed, the GEM eL two-passenger with a long-back bed, and the GEM eL XD two-passenger extra duty with a long-back bed.

Each of these GEM battery-electric car model meets and exceeds all federal safety regulations for low-speed vehicles and are thoroughly tested at the Chrysler Automotive Proving Grounds for quality and endurance so you can always be safe to drive any of these choices.

In this day and age, driving a vehicle that is free from tailpipe emissions is the best thing we can do so far to combat the rising level of Global Warming threat. And GEM battery-electric cars are certain to be of perfect use for short trips to the dock or even making daily trips to the market, for transporting equipment in warehouses, school, golf course or club, or office.

Campaign for Solar-Powered Vehicles

2008-05-22T14:18:00.000-07:00

Global Warming threatens the many environment activists of the generation. The Meeting of both the heart and minds environmental activists with a small innovative company was a success. In fact, there is a newly disable woman who have just realized how she had been dependent on her electric battery-powered wheelchair around the countryside where she lived.

A design and engineering firm in the country has helped these environment activists to modify an existing outdoor model, which is known as the Tramper. They made this as a partially solar-powered wheelchair. This newly developed wheelchair turned out to be a heavy-duty solar-powered wheelchair, which can travel even over fields.

They all worked in adding more solar panels and planned to extend its range by about 20%. Just recently, this small company began researching on the use of lithium iron batteries to double the distance that it can travel.

The newly disable woman is now a happy owner, and in fact, plans to switch to a solar-powered wheelchair cavalcade, known as the SolaRola. She also wants to make it known in public so she planned to extend the campaign for solar powered wheelchairs. To make this campaign a success, there is a fleet of solar-powered vehicles featuring sustainable energy sources that will be traveling 120 miles from London to Bath, along back country roads.

Also, a solar-powered ice cream van from Yeo Valley Organic will accompany this fleet of solar-powered vehicles. An agricultural fair will be held in Bath, where events that highlight ecology and sustainability will be conducted. As part of this fair, more wheelchairs ridden by celebrities and Para-Olympians will also be featured during the event.

Laughing Racing Cars - Part 2

2008-05-21T14:15:00.000-07:00

Young American Corvette
Ask your granny about their best bet funny car racers during the late 60’s and early 70’s. If your granny is at it during those times, he must have known Ed Carter, a funny car racer from the Northern California and first ran a funny car under the “Chevy II Heavy” banner for a couple of years. After a year of rest in his racing careerm Ed Carter returned in the year 1969 with his new funny race car baby, the “Young American” Corvette He was successful then that he mostly raced this funny car in Northern California, and decided to run this to Southern California, where it was finally able to qualify for the open SoCal shows The “Young American” Corvette of Ed Carter had its success throughout the 1970 season.

Machine Gun Kelly Corvair
No. This wasn’t a real machine gun to be feared of because Barry Kelly’s Machine Gun Kelly Corvair is actually one of those funny raced cars during the 70’s. While Kelly is an African American funny racer, he extended his skill throughout Southern California with this beautiful candy apple red “Machine Gun Kelly” Corvair. It featured a supercharged Chevrolet Rat Engine with a Hilborn injector. Kelly also had Doug Thorley, a fellow funny car racer whom he worked with as his associate sponsor on this funny car. But since the car was crafted out of steel and fiberglass, it had become too heavy by the end of 1970, and Barry Kelly decided to end end its career and parked it after running the seven-second times.
After a couple of years later, Barry Kelly returned to scene with its proud Hemi-powered “Machine Gun Kelly” Vega in the year 1974. But it had just caused Kelly a shame although this also had made Kelly claim this as his greatest fame. Wonder why? The Vega funny race car caught fire while racing at the P.R.O. Nationals on Long Island.

Holy Toledo
Ever heard of the “Secret Weapon” team breakup of Roger Wolford and Lenarth? It was during that time when this team had proven that Jeeps were banned from the legal funny car racing. With a new found team, Ed Lenarth worked with Brain Chuchua and crafted out of state-of-the-art equipment a “Holy Toledo”, a racing funny car in late 1968. This funny racing car had changed the notion that Jeeps were actually banned from this kind of car racing. This funny race car had even raced in the open SoCal races and match races. The car had reached its best times of a tough 7.37 at 197 mph. Its speed in the race track lasted until the year 1971.

Bob McFarland’s Demon
You gotta be astounded of this funny race car of Bob McFarland, a man who had a short but memorable funny car career that lasted from 1968 until 1971. His first raced funny car was the “Mastercharge” Nova, which featured a Chevrolet Rat engine backed by an automatic transmission. He rebuilt this funny race car in the year 1970, and that was his best year in the funny car racing world. The “Mastercharge” Nova won the Arizona State Championships at Beeline Racewa. It was in the Manufacturer’s Race at Orange Country where it gathered its award as the biggest funny car race of the year. That could be unfortunate for the other funny car racers. But they can’t do anything about it because this funny car had sevens all night to beat a 100 plus car field.

Thanks to the win because Bob McFarland was able to use the money he earned in building another funny race car in the name of Dodge Demon. This time, it was considered as his state-of-the-art car. Why? It featured the latest Chrysler Hemi engine with clutch setup inside a new style dragster chassis that many funny cars were beginning to use then. This funny race car, however, ran low sevens and finally ended its racing career when it was destroyed in fire at Lions. It was Mickey Thompson who helped pulled Bob McFarland from the fire. It was the last racing that McFarland had attended to.

Laughing Racing Cars - Part 1

2008-05-20T14:13:00.000-07:00

Would you believe that even cars could laugh for a thousand miles? I know it’s a crazy thing to believe. You gotta read on these laughing racing cars of the 70’s. Presenting, Charger of Charlie Allen, Phoney Pony Mustang of Junior, Parts Mart Camaro of Kip Brundage, Young American Corvette of Ed Carter, Machine Gun Kelly Corvair of Barry Kelly, Holy Toledo Jeep of Ed Lenarth, Demon of Bob McFarland, Exp.Javelin AMC Javelin of Clyde Morgan, Camaro of Tom Sturm and the Family Affair Mustang of Tom Zedaker.

Charger
This car is owned by Charlie Allen, a sponsor and race promoter who is tagged as the “All American Boy.” He is actually one of the toughest funny car racers of the sixties and early seventies. He started his career in producing a funny car during the time of Super Stock. The history can be rooted from the Dodge bodied cars which are sponsored by local California dealers. He dealt with these altered wheel based factory experimental cars and come up with series of racing cars.

Allen had his victories to list. But among those, his new funny race car he named as “Mr.Ed” is a bodied Charger he built in 1971. Allen traveled less with this newly built race car. He even managed to set a National Speed Record at 222.22 mph, 6.82 elapsed time with the car in the year 1972.

And here’s the “Phony Pony” racing car of Junior Brogdon. If you will take a closer look you’ll notice its wild Mustang mounted on its dragster chassis and that made it best remembered in the history of car racing. Although this car was a failure to Junior Brogdon, for as you may know he had succeed in the racing field prior to the building of the “Phony Pony” Mustang.

This car is made of various engine variations, with both blown and unblown small block Ford engines and sometimes used two engines. But unfortunately, Brogdon had not made it that far because this “Phony Pony” Mustang was shunned for not being a real funny racing car. And in fact, it was relegated to infrequent match races.

Junior Brogdon’s series of “Phony Pony” cars will be remembered best for the wild Mustang mounted on the dragster chassis. The car was a failure, but its oddity gained it a following in the late sixties in Southern California. Brogdon had success racing in AHRA Formula Stock before building the “Phony Pony” Mustang. The “Phony Pony” was built in 1967 using many engine variations. The car used both blown and unblown small block Ford engines and even used two engines sometimes. The car was shunned for not being a real funny car and was relegated to infrequent match races.

Brogdon, however, did not lose hope. He again built a new funny racing car in the year 1969. This time it was a Mustang but completely different than his previous “Phony Pony” old Mustang. It featured a typical space frame of the era with a 392 Chrysler Hemi engine as well as a stock-styled body. This new car was legal and even much quicker than the narrow Phony Pony. It lasted in the racing industry until the end of 1970.

Parts Mart Camaro

If we are going to compare all of the funny cars that appeared in the late 60’s, Kip Brundage was far better than many of them. And his best piece during that time was the Parts Marts Camaro, which had its debut in 1967. This funny racing car featured an injected Chevy Rat and this was drove by Brundage until the year 1970.

Modern Days Most Expensive Cars!

2008-05-15T14:16:00.000-07:00

There are so many different cars around these days, and the general public only really knows about half of them. Everyone knows about the regular car companies. People know all about these car makers and they also know about the standards they can expect from these companies. There are also other car companies that most people know about, but only a half of the population would ever have the finances to own one of their cars. The general public only knows the name of these cars, and not much about what makes them a quality vehicle.

After those two groups of cars, there is another group that most of the population would never be able to afford, and most people also do not know a lot about these cars. In fact, some people may not even know that some of these cars even exist. The cars I'm talking about are more than luxury cars, more than sports cars, and more money than four or five "regular" cars put together! Here are the top ten most expensive cars in the world:

Bugatti Veyron - With a price tag of $1,700,000, there aren't too many people who you will see driving this vehicle around town. With "1001" horsepower, this car has a 16.4 engine and it can get up to a speed of 400 kilometers per hour. This car was built by a subsidiary of Volkswagon in France, and it took years to perfect.

Ferrari Enzo - This sports car costs 1,000,000, and is also known as the Enzo Ferrari or the F60. It was built with Formula One Technology in 2003. This car and its brand name basically speaks for itself in the racing world.

Pagani Zonda C12 F - Weighing in at $741,000, this car is still too expensive for the average person to own, and probably the above average person as well! It sports a 7.3 V12 engine that has been passed down by its predecessors.

Koenigsegg CCX - This sports car will cost you $600,910 to buy, and it is worth every penny. The Competition Coupe X (CCX) commemorates the anniversary of the completion and first test drive of the first CC car in 1996. It has a 32 valve V-8 engine that was based on the Ford Modular engine design.

Porsche Carrera GT - This car has a price tag of $484,000. Labeled as a super car, this German made sports car has a 5.7 liter, V10 engine. It also boasts a 612 SAE horsepower.

Mercedes SLR McLaren - Weighing in at a price of $455,00, this car is still too expensive to drive around town. The "SLR" in its name stands for "Sportlich, Leicht, Rennsport", which is German for "Sport; Light; Racing". This car has a 5.5, V8 engine.

Maybach 62 - This car will cost a more affordable $385,250. This is also the first of the above listed vehicles that is not a sports car. The Maybach 62 is known as an ultra-luxurious car, and was designed with a hired driver in mind.
Rolls-Royce Phantom - This luxury car costs $320,00, and it is one of he most well known brand names of the luxury car business. The Phantom was made in 2003, and it was the first to be made under the BMW name.

Lamborghini Murcielago - This sports car costs $279,900 to buy, and is a lot more affordable than the above sports vehicles! This car will definitely turn heads and has a 6.5 liter engine.

Aston Martin Vanquish - This super car will cost you $255,000 to buy, and it was featured as the official James Bond car in one of his films. This sports car has a 5.5 liter V12 engine.

What makes these cars so expensive? A combination of things contributes to the price tags of these vehicles. One part is the years of work that went into designing and making them. Another part would be the brand name of each car. Add to that the power of the engines, and the style of the cars, and you have the reason for the expensive price tags.

TEENS AND CARS!

2008-05-14T15:28:00.000-07:00

Within short span of time, the number of people killed by teenage drivers amounts to 35,000. Teens aged 16 and 17 are mostly responsible for this alarming rate primarily because of their psychological development, as studies have proven. They are still unable to make the right decisions in risky situations, especially when driving is involved.

Whenever teens are finally able to get their licenses and start to drive, they pose a constant worry on their parents. Teenagers these days have quite an impulsive behavior - add a bit of peer pressure and alcohol to that and you have a disaster waiting to happen. Which is why, teens should undergo first a driving program or lesson before driving the vehicle down the road.

Undergoing such kind of training or lesson is really of great help since teens will be taught how to avoid traffic accidents and how to react to emergency situations. Not only will they be more careful drivers, they will also become more capable when making on-road decisions.

Fictional Cars of all times!

2008-05-14T13:31:00.000-07:00

After a while, the media once again elevated the popularity of various vehicles by highlighting some of the fictional rides that have graced the pages of classic novels, the lyrics of songs, the 30-minute TV show, and the big screen. Whether Fred and Wilma are peddling around in their signature rock mobile, James Bond gets away with his gadget cars or the Beach Boys bring life to the Little Deuce Coupe, it’s sometimes hard to overlook that many of these fictional cars really don’t exist. Featured below are a few examples that have gained fame throughout the years.

Batmobile
Both television shows and movies of batman, the superhero-on-the-go often hopped into a sleek, customized vehicle that provided protection for his Bruce Wayne alter ego. Equipped with heavy armor plating and a high performance engine, the evolution of the Batman series displayed increasing levels of gadgets. To reach increased speeds, the Batmobile sometimes offered rocket boosts, while additional weapons and a computerized assistance helped to keep villains at a distance.

KITT (Pontiac Trans Am)
The talking car that aided David Hasselhoff’s character, Michael Knight, navigates through a sea of enemies and bad guys was a Pontiac Trans Am. The television series focused on a high-tech approach to entertain the audience. Numerous fans watched the show just to see what KITT would do or say next. The popularity of the show even helped to boost Pontiac car sales as the verbal wonder could drive without a passenger and even displayed its own set of entertaining stunts.

Christine (Plymouth Fury)
Stephen King is one of the most popular writers who have produced numerous novels that have become popular movies; the same is true with the 1958 Plymouth Fury that seemed to have a mind of its own. Christine was the name given to the car that appeared in the horror novel (with the same name) published in 1983. Driven by supernatural forces, the antique auto created havoc in both the novel and the movie.

Herbie (Volkswgen Beetle)
Several Disney movies and cartoons have focused on Herbie the Lovebug, which was a Volkswagon Beetle that made its first appearance in 1969. Just like Christine, the red, white, and blue striped car with a “53” on its side could also drive without assistance and had a reputation for acting on its own. Most of the time, the car was featured in some sort of racing competition.

General Lee (Dodge Charger)
The television series and movie named the Dukes of Hazzard showed main characters, Bo and Luke Duke soaring through the air, causing mischief with their get-rich schemes. Their vehicle of choice was a colorful Dodge Charger that allowed the cousins to complete high jumps in almost every episode. The car is also known for its controversial Confederate flag decoration.

Classic American Performance Cars

2008-05-13T13:26:00.000-07:00

Way back then maybe during my grandfather’s days, three terrific American built performance cars: the Ford Mustang, the Dodge Challenger, and the Chevrolet Camaro. Currently, only the Mustang is in production with the Challenger coming back by 2009. GM hasn’t committed to building the Camaro just yet, but the company is likely to make a decision in favor of the car and its sibling, the Pontiac Firebird, by this summer. So, what is it about American performance cars that set them apart from the rest? In one word: muscle.

Typically, a muscle car was a coupe version of some of the larger cars that were pervasive on U.S. highways in the 1960s and 1970s. The Mustang and Camaro, however, were designed separately although they both heavily borrowed parts from other models and these “pony” cars were a category all to themselves. For comparison’s sake, they join the Dodge Challenger, a performance version of Mopar cars of its time. All three were compared by critics of that time and all three will once again be compared in a few years when production has been ramped up.

Ford Mustang – Way back on April 1964 when America was heavily involved in the space race, Lyndon Johnson was president, and General Motors ruled autodom. Ford, for its part, had been nipping at GM’s heels for years, but the failed Edsels of the late 1950s had cost the company dearly. Still, it was the time of the New York World’s Fair and Ford used the fair and television technology to promote its newest offering, the Mustang. A 2+2 coupe borrowing parts from the Fairlane and Falcon, the 1964 ½ model was the first one sold and is widely credited with being the best introduction of a new vehicle ever. With a V6 engine standard and V8 optional, the all new Mustang quickly broke sales records and has been a hot seller ever since. Indeed, with the introduction of the “retro” look Mustang in 2005, the car once again has spawned interest in the muscle car segment as both DaimlerChrysler and General Motors craft competing models of their own.

Dodge Challenger -– After the success of earlier muscle cars including the Dodge Charger and Plymouth ‘Cuda, the Dodge Challenger was launched as a 1970 model. The car borrowed heavily from the ‘Cuda although the sheet metal was somewhat different and the wheelbase was stretched by a couple of inches. Because the muscle car era was in decline at the time of its introduction, the Challenger lasted only five model years before it was cancelled. The concept Challenger currently on display at many auto shows is based on the 1970 design and is the talk of message boards and blogs across the nation. Look for Hemi powered engines as being favored by many owners; the car is likely to share some technology with the current Magnum wagon and Charger sedan.

Chevrolet Camaro -- GM was asleep at the wheel when the Mustang came out. It took nearly three years before the company could respond and when it did the Camaro and Pontiac Firebird were the result. Although both cars sold well over the years, neither one could match the Mustang’s sales levels and by the time the last cars were sold in 2002, production dropped to a trickle. Still, the end of the Camaro after 35 years has stirred renewed interest in the name and thanks to the retro Mustang, the entire muscle car category is growing once again. Look for a 2010 Camaro to be the first Camaro since 2002; a ragtop version is also being considered.

So, just who can be expected to purchase a muscle car these days? Middle aged men who grew up with the original models. In addition, a whole new generation of younger drivers tired of the “me too” look of so many of the compact cars out there. Muscle cars of today are so much different from earlier era cars as they incorporate the look of the originals while harnessing today’s technology. Thus, fuel savings will be decent without sacrificing performance: a true win-win situation.

FORD’s Eco-friendly cars….

2008-05-10T16:28:00.000-07:00

As gas prices continue to rise where more and more people are deciding to go green in numerous aspects of their life, the decision to purchase a car that is more environmentally friendly is being made by more car owners. If you are a Ford lover, this decision is becoming increasingly easier as Ford continues to offer vehicles that are fuel efficient, have lower carbon emissions, and still retain the look and feel of the Ford cars and trucks that they've always loved. Here are a few of those cars to think about when the decision to go green with your car is upon you.

Escape Hybrid

Offering upwards of 34 Miles per Gallon, the Escape Hybrid is being marketed as the most fuel efficient SUV on Earth. Whether that's true or not remains to be seen, but the Escape Hybrid is a great option for the family that needs the space of an SUV, but is looking to avoid some of the gas cost. As well as being more fuel efficient, the Escape Hybrid meets strict Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV II) and Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emission Vehicle (AT-PZEV) standards. Translation - the Escape Hybrid has lower emissions and presents less of an impact on the environment.

On top of all of the environmental reasons to buy an Escape Hybrid, the improved safety features for the Escape Hybrid means you don't have to sacrifice any feelings of security in the interest of being environmentally conscious. With sensors that make more efficient use of your driver and passenger airbags, and an astounding six standard airbags, you can rest easy knowing you're protecting both the environment and your family when buying an Escape Hybrid.

Ford Focus

With an astounding 35 miles per gallon, the Ford Focus is the perfect car whether you're shopping in New York; this is a car you'll want to look at twice. Lots of fun to drive, but environmentally responsible, the Ford Focus is stocked with all of the newest gadgets to make driving it a true joy. The Sync system is a great way to access your music and phone without ever taking your hands off the wheel, arguably the best safety feature any car can offer.

The Ford Focus balances increased driving power over previous models with increased fuel efficiency and decreased emissions to create a vehicle that is great for every family, teenager, or young couple looking for a car that meets all of their needs and will help preserve the environment for years to come.

Ford Flex

Available in the Summer of 2008, the Ford Flex is joining the crossover line of vehicles from Ford which currently features the Edge and the Taurus X. While Ford hasn't released the miles per gallon yet for the Flex, it is being featured along with their other green vehicles on their website, so it's a fair assumption that the Flex will have reasonable fuel efficiency for its size.

Ford has said the Flex will feature a capless refueling system that will help reduce emissions from vapors while fueling. This, along with numerous safety features, the Sync system, and enough space for a family of five and everything they need to travel, is sure to make the Ford Flex a very popular car when it arrives later this year.

Ford Reflex

Only a concept car as of now, this Ford Reflex is already being shown interest among those interested in more fuel efficient cars. Featuring reverse butterfly doors and a sleek design that can seat anywhere between 2 and 4 passengers, the Ford Reflex is very likely going to be a huge hit when it hits, every New York, LA, Miami, and Newton Ford Dealership in the country.

Currently being rumored to offer a diesel-electric hybrid engine and new-generation lithium-ion batteries that will enable the Reflex to achieve up to 65 miles per gallon, the anticipation for this vehicle is already growing. Although Ford has not announced any plans to produce this car, keep a look out as more and more manufacturers are releasing similar vehicles.

The 2009 Nissan Titan!

2008-05-09T16:45:00.000-07:00

While the auto market is welcoming the introduction of 2008 mode year vehicles, Nissan is reported to be working on a 2009 model year version of the full-size pickup Nissan titan. Nissan is developing a diesel version of the Titan which will be introduced in the United States auto market for the 2009 model year.

According to the report, Nissan is partnering with truck and engine manufacturer Navistar International Corp. to bring a diesel-powered Titan in the North American market. Navistar is also the company which provided Ford with the diesel engines for their Super Duty Trucks creations until the relationship soured.

Currently, Nissan is not offering any diesel-powered vehicle in the United States. One reason for this perhaps is caution. The company knows that diesel engines have left a bitter taste in the tongue of American car buyers. It was in the 1980s that diesel engines made an appearance in the country. The noisy engine though did not endear itself to Americans. Aside from the noisy operation, diesel engines of old are also known for the black soot that they produce.

The new generation of diesel engines from Navistar though is more environment-friendly than its predecessors. It uses emission filter technologies which reduce the amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere. Not only that, thanks to advanced engine acoustics technology new generation diesel engines produces less noise which can be even compared to a gasoline engine.

One reason pointed out why it makes sense that Nissan will be coming up with a diesel truck is the skyrocketing price of gasoline. Diesel is cheaper than gasoline therefore it would be an obvious choice for light truck buyers to purchase a diesel-engine pickup truck.

The Titan pickup truck was introduced by the Japanese automaker in 2004. The Titan is the only full-size pickup truck in the auto manufacturer’s lineup. It was introduced in the United States auto market in the hope that it will carve a niche in the profitable segment in the US auto market. Unfortunately though, Americans tend to go for American light trucks with proven track record.

Last month, Nissan reported that sales of the Titan went down by 18 percent when they only sold 4,899 units of the Titan. For the first five months of the year, Nissan saw a declining sale for the Titan. So far, Nissan has sold 28,668 units of the Titan from January through May. This is 15 percent lower than Nissan Titan sale for the first five months of 2006.

The 2008 model year version of the Titan went on sale in the country in April. Aside from Ford’s F-Series and General Motors’ Chevrolet Silverado, the Titan is facing competition from the redesigned Tundra, Toyota’s “most important product launch to date”.

Tesla – the power turner!

2008-05-09T16:27:00.000-07:00

Days ahead of first US deliveries, more potent maximum power figures have surfaced for the electric car that claims supercar performance with solid green credentials.

Tesla has turned up the wattage on its electric roadster, just days ahead of the first cars being delivered to customers.

A set of specifications released by a Norwegian Tesla dealer-nominee suggest Europe will see a second-generation version of the car, when deliveries begin there in 2009.

The Norwegian spec sheet differs from the US version in having a single-speed transmission, instead of the originally-quoted two forward speeds. With a three-phase AC electric motor capable of producing maximum torque at zero rpm but also capable of spinning to 13,000rpm. Gears, it seems are an unnecessary extravagance. Other differences include more power from the engine, now producing 225kW, up from the 185kW originally quoted.

The Tesla Roadster is the product of a start-up company headquartered in Silicon Valley, near San Francisco, using a body built by Lotus in Norfolk, eastern England. It puts an electric motor in a chassis loosely based on the Lotus Elise to offer a combination of supercar performance and impeccable green credentials.

Tesla's torque chart for the 185kW motor shows peak torque of 270Nm lasting from zero rpm to about 6000rpm. Whatever torque band the European version produces is enough to drive the single-speeder from 0-100km/h in a claimed 4.0 seconds. The European version quotes maximum range of a useful 365km (not that much less than a Lotus Elise, honestly, if you're up it) and battery charging time as four hours for a complete cycle. Energy consumption of the US version is quoted as the equivalent of 1.74 litres/100km.

Tesla says it has taken 600 orders for the Roadster and has a waiting list of another 400. Series production of the car began in March and the company's first dealership was launched in Los Angeles.

Godzilla in Europe

2008-05-09T15:26:00.000-07:00

Weeeeeeeee……Like the car itself, GT-R orders are going ballistic worldwide. Now, strong demand in Europe may stall Australian deliveries….

Nissan appears well on the way to achieving the breakthrough in Europe it has always craved for its high-performance flagship the GT-R. But the success may come at the expense of markets such as Australia.

Just one month after European dealers began taking orders for the GT-R – and within weeks of the Japanese supercar setting a new production car lap record of 7:29 at Germany’s famed Nurburgring – more than 1500 European orders have been taken.

Specialist GT-R dealers across Europe began writing orders in early April, and within a month the 56 High Performance Dealers, as Nissan calls them, had accounted for the full 2008 quota. The Brits lead the charge in signing up for the GT-R, with some 950 orders taken in the UK alone. In the US, the 2008 allocation of GT-Rs is sold out and 60 percent of 2009’s allocation has been pre-sold.

Speaking from Portugal, where Wheels is attending a global product overview of the Nissan and Infiniti range dubbed Nissan 360, Nissan Australia’s general manager of marketing Ross Booth said GT-R’s success in Europe “was not good news for Australia.”

He was referring to the fact that with international demand for the Porsche 911 Turbo-humbling GT-R running at an all-time high, countries such as Australia, with our relatively low volume requirements, may be forced to wait longer for delivery.

Despite reservations about its premium pricing and positioning compared to the rest of its local range, Nissan Australia has confirmed its interest in the GT-R, with media relations manager Karl Gehling telling Wheels that around 3000 expressions of interest had been taken to date. However, with pricing, specification, delivery date and production volume all still up in the air, no deposits had been taken, he said.

Proton up close!

2008-05-08T16:11:00.000-07:00

Thrifty, comfortable, and with good ride and handling - the latest Proton should be on shopping lists.

Proton doesn’t really register in a big way on the psyche of Australian new-car buyers but anyone in the market for a low-cost small, comfortable, fuel-efficient sedan should take a look at the new Persona, priced from $16,990.

This Persona shouldn’t be confused with a car bearing that name sold here between 1995 and 2005. The newbie is very different.

This latest version is actually a booted variant of the similarly priced five-door hatch called Gen2 and the two share the same 1.6-litre Campro twin-cam engine and choice of five-speed manual and four-speed auto transmissions.

The Malaysian-made Persona is aimed primarily at young families and retirees. Obvious competitors are sedan versions of the Mazda 3 and Yaris, along with the Tiida, Barina and Accent.

The big surprises perhaps are the Persona’s impressive ride and handling (though given the strong input from Lotus engineers, maybe we shouldn’t be too surprised at all). The ride quality is a standout, with great bump acceptance and control, and it’s superior to many European cars costing twice as much.

The cornering behavior is very predictable with no bad manners erupting when the throttle gets a workout. There’s some natural built-in under steer but the Persona manages to hit its marks in every twist and turn.

The steering offers up enough feel with only some occasional rack rattle presenting itself when the car discovers some bumps with a bit of lock on.

MG Returns!

2008-05-07T15:55:00.000-07:00

Three years after the iconic sports car brand went under, MG's finally back in Britain.

MGs will be sold again in Britain, three years after the collapse of MG Rover, the last independent British-owned volume car manufacturer.

Chinese car-maker Nanjing Automobile Corporation, which bought the rights to the MG brand when the British maker went asunder in April 2005 announced yesterday it would resume series production of the MG TF at the former MG Rover Longbridge factory in August.

It said 500 limited-edition TF LE500 roadsters would be made with the first cars on sale through a network of 57 dealers by September.

Nanjing's British subsidiary, MG UK said the TF LE500 would feature revised front styling, leather seats, air conditioning and body-coloured hardtop as standard and a glass rear windscreen.

The price, according to British dealers, will be about £17,000 (A$35,000).

“The market is nostalgic,” said a sales consultant at one dealer which has refurbished its showroom to sell the cars. “We've had a couple of pre-owned TFs and, recently, an MGB in our showroom and it was interesting to see how people's faces lit up.”

Nanjing also said it would set up a research and development centre at Longbridge, in the midlands city of Birmingham, to develop new models to be made there and in China. This is in addition to its existing design centre at nearby Leamington Spa.

Nanjing reopened the Longbridge factory a year ago and has been building pre-production vehicles there with a staff of about 250. Plans to reintroduce the TF to the British market last September were delayed.

The company builds the MG TF and MG 7, a successor to the Rover 75-based MG ZT at its Chinese factory and is rumoured to be considering using the Austin name (which it got as part of the deal) for a lower-priced line of cars.

It has also previously announced plans to produce the MG TF for the US market at a plant in Ardmore, Oklahoma.

Significantly, Nanjing merged last year with the other Chinese company that bought the remains of MG Rover, Shanghai Automotive Industry Corp, which bought the rights to the Rover model range, but not the brand name, which was acquired by Ford. Shanghai Automotive now makes Rover-based designs for Chinese consumption under the Roewe brand.

Seat headliners!

2008-05-07T14:24:00.000-07:00

Whenever vehicles get restyled, most car enthusiasts and aficionados most likely have thoughts on these vehicles having new exterior parts or getting new features like having additional covers standard features. There are also people which may think of the restyled vehicle having a new type of engine that could give the vehicle a further boost in power.

However, this is not all of the things that a vehicle can get when it goes through restyling or redesigning. One of the main parts of the vehicle that we often neglect is the interior. And most of today’s vehicles have come with restyled and redesigned interiors that we may not notice much from the outside but we most certainly would be appreciating once we get the chance to ride and take a seat in the cabin.

Most vehicles come with heaps of interior features. Examples of these include the GPS navigation system, heated seats, and also wood trims that are authentic. And yes, these features come as standard ones so there is no need for you to shell out more just to have these for your brand new vehicle. However, for most vehicles today, there is a new kind of upgrade that could maybe get you more interested than you are already now.

One of the restyling jobs that you can do for your vehicle is to decorate its seats. There are certain seat accessories like the headliners that offer luxury and comfort both for the driver and the passengers.

Experts say that that the common types of headliners are made up of a low quality kind of cloth that is also lightweight so much so that there is not much effect to the cabin. Indeed, spicing up your vehicle’s interior like giving attention for the car seat can be an innovative approach not only in enhancing the interior’s appearance but for the car seat’s protection as well.

The Porsche Boxster

2008-05-03T16:18:00.000-07:00

Porsche is one of the famous vehicle marquees that has manufactured marvelous and astounding vehicle models for decades now. One of the most known model under this marquee is the Porsche Boxster. The Boxster is a mid-engined roadster built by Porsche. The first-generation Boxster (the 986) was introduced in late 1996 as a 1997 model. It was Porsche's smallest and least expensive vehicle, taking over from the front-engine Porsche 968, which was discontinued in 1995.

Early Boxster models were powered by a 201 horsepower 2.5 litre flat six-cylinder engine. In 2000, a 2.7 litre, 217 horsepower engine replaced the original engine in the base model, and the new Boxster S variant was introduced with a 3.2 litre, 250 horsepower engine. In 2003 a minor update gave the Boxster's 2.7-liter engine 225 horsepower and the Boxster S's 3.2-liter engine 258 horsepower. In 2005, updates were substantial enough that Porsche internally identified the Boxster as a new 987 model.

Engine output was increased again, to 240 and 280 horsepower respectively for the base and S cars. In 2007, the Boxster and Boxster S were upgraded with the 2.7L, 245hp engine from the Porsche Cayman and the 3.4L, 295hp engine from the Porsche Cayman S, respectively. Production of the 986 began at the former Porsche 928 facility in Stuttgart Germany in 1996, although a Valmet facility in Uusikaupunki, Finland also builds units under contract to Porsche in order to help meet demand. It was Porsche's biggest volume seller from its introduction in model year 1997 until the company introduced the Cayenne utility vehicle in model year 2003.

The Boxster's name is a combination of the word "boxer", referring to the vehicle's horizontally-opposed or "boxer" engine, and the word "roadster", referring to the vehicle's convertible top. The Boxster indeed contributes a lot for the Porsche fame.

Cars of today!

2008-05-03T15:27:00.000-07:00

Why do you think automobile manufactures release new models at all times of the year? Well, auto aficionados shopping for cars today, counters the same decisions they did in years past, 2-door or 4-door, car, truck, van, or SUV. The idea of buying a car in the middle of 2007 and having to decide between a 2007 and a 2008 muddies the water. Some of these vehicles will be all-new models, others radically different, while still others with only slight alterations. Manufacturers are using the release of the new 2008 products as more of a strategy than the previous years. They realize they have the power to create targeted traffic at given points of the selling season with these new releases. They no longer have to share the same pie with every other automaker. The traditional introduction of the models in early October created too much competition between the manufacturers. All the automakers were introducing their new lineup at the same time and sharing the spotlight with all the other automakers. A model can be deemed on the present year, say 2008 so long as it goes on sale after January 1st of the current year. Consumers are split relatively evenly between the bargain of the left over model and the idea of having the latest and greatest. Many consumers opt to pay more for the 2008 because the 2007 doesn't seem quite so new anymore. While the bargain hunters can save even more during the buzz of the newly released models. This is a win-win for the dealerships. The manufacturers need to assist the dealers in moving out the 2007products (heavier incentives) and the profits for the dealers can be significantly higher on the fresh 2008products. More and more new models for 2008 are being produced monthly that will definitely make you crave to have them!

The 2008 VOLVO C70

2008-05-02T15:16:00.000-07:00

This year (2008), Volvo reinvents its hardtop convertible C70 with more horsepower, technology and some fine detailing that would let auto aficionados vie for it.

Under the hood of the 2008 C70 is a nine-horsepower bump. The turbocharged 2.5-liter in-line five now has 227 horsepower from 218 hp on the previous version. For the front driver, the customers can choose between a six-speed manual and a five-speed automatic gearbox.

The C70's folding hardtop mechanism is new for the model year. And instead of the aluminum trim of the first model year, the 2008 model uses Laminated Oak wood trim has been added to the center control panel, console and door handle surrounds. On the steering wheel are leather trim and the gearshift knob. For a more durable arrangement, the handbrake has been improved. Aside from this, the clock has moved – it is now seen on the information screen.

For better performance, handling and safety, Volvo also placed a standard tire-pressure monitoring system as well as improved air vents. On the hardtop convertible button, a brighter finish is definitely observable. Moreover, the Volvo "iron mark" has been added to the remote key fob – another distinctive feature from the car maker.

As to the paint colors, Ice White paint is now offered for the latest model, alongside Pearl White. The car also now comes with a premium Sovereign Hide leather trim.

ROUSH Roadster

2008-05-02T14:15:00.000-07:00

Every auto shows has its own vehicle that takes a bang! Way back on the year 2006, a limited edition of Mustang convertible has been unveiled. This is the Roush Roaster.

The ROUSH Roadster is a one-of-a kind mustang that was custom painted, two-toned cruiser which has been engineered to satisfy aficionados who wanted a free-spirited type of driving with the wind blowing through their hair. To come up with the limited edition version, ROUSH factory technicians in Livonia, Michigan started out with a base Ford Mustang GT. To make it exceptional from the base Ford Mustang, ROUSH incorporated a four-piece aerobody kit that includes a front fascia, hood scoop, chin spoiler and rear wing.

Hence, the most captivating enhancement made to the car is its two-color paint scheme. The scheme is composed of black across the top of the car with a choice of Torch Red, Redfire, Vista Blue, Silver or Grabber Orange as the base. The design makes the car more attention-grabbing than the traditional Mustang.

The ROUSH Roadster is further accented by the ROUSH 20-inch RR04 forged chrome wheels, convertible light bar and Cooper Tires. The car’s interior is accented by custom sport leather seating with the unique ROUSH Roadster logo. It is also given a billet aluminum pedal kit and embroidered floor mats to enhance the look and feel of the car’s interior. “The two-tone paint scheme is beautiful and with the top down the stresses of the day just seem to go away with the wind

The ROUSH design and upgrades bridge the gap between road and track. They are made with seamless blend of racing performance experience and formidable OEM engineering. They are utilized to pave way for a smooth yet thrilling ride while further visual appeal of the car. This is expected to tickle aficionados’ desire and auto collectible fetish. Options for the car include a ROUSHcharger powertrain upgrade which boosts the stock Ford GT 4.6L, V-8 engine to 415 horsepower, white face gauge clusters with illuminated Jack Roush signature, interior carbon fiber design dash trim kits, short throw shifters, and more all designed to enhance the performance or appearance of the car as desired.

The new roadster is also equipped with custom-designed ROUSH lowering springs and jounce bumpers to lower it by about an inch. This is done to deliver smoother ride and furthering visual appearance.

Have your car’s health checked!

2008-04-30T13:50:00.000-07:00

A regular health check is essential to maintain the safety of your car, and spot any problems that may arise from time to time. It is highly advisable that you run a standard test of various vital mechanical elements of your car periodically. Also, it ensures the best chance of your survival in an accident. Regular health checks can spot problems as soon as they become apparent. They also help you save on the mechanic's bill.

Periodical health checks also ensure that your car is in top roadworthy condition. They minimize the chance of mechanical failure whilst you are driving. The most basic check you should conduct is a break test. Before testing the brakes ensure that you are safely ahead of any cars behind. Then apply relatively firm pressure to the breaks. This would help you get a feel of the responsiveness of the break pads. If you find that breaking is getting slightly sluggish, there can be considerable erosion of the break pads. In this case, it is advisable that you seek professional assistance.

If you find that your car pulls to one side when you apply brakes it indicates that there is some serious problem and it is time to take it for repair. If the brake pedal sinks to the floor when pressure is applied or if you hear or feel scraping or grinding when you apply the brake, it means that there is some problem with the brakes' mechanism and it needs to be checked out.

Another basic check you should make is the condition of your tires. Check the thickness of the tread on the tires and the tire pressure. Also check if the tires are out of alignment, which may happen from time to time. A mechanic can solve this problem without too much hassle.

Maintaining oil levels in the engine ensures the smooth running of you car's machinery. Insufficient oil level can cause serious problems to any car. So it is imperative that you check oil levels regularly and rectify any deficiencies.

It is better to have an awareness of how your car functions mechanically. A good mechanic can tell you what are essential for the well-being of the vital mechanical components of the vehicle.

Sometimes you may feel like the car is difficult to handle or you find the ride less smooth and stable. These symptoms are always indicative of a problem and your car needs immediate attention. Sometimes you feel a vibration that was not there before. It indicates that your tires need balancing. It is also advisable that you check your shock absorbers periodically. If they do not function properly, your car starts riding strangely.

Your car becomes harder to steer when your front wheels are misaligned or you have worn out steering parts. Sometimes you feel that your car wants to pull to the right or left. This also happens when your tires are not properly inflated. But it could also mean that your front wheels are misaligned or damaged in some way. In this case it is advisable that you seek professional help.

Engine trouble occurs in various ways. Sometimes you find that your car is hard to start. Other indicators of engine trouble include the car engine running after you remove the key and the car stalling abruptly. Poor acceleration and fewer miles may also indicate an engine trouble.

Transmission problems often cause a delayed response when shifting from neutral to drive or reverse gear. Sometimes you may find that your car does not shift during regular acceleration. Also, if you find the shifting hard there could be a problem with transmission.

When you encounter one of these problems ask your mechanic to check if it is just a disconnected hose problem or see if the filter is plugged. These repairs are, of course, much simpler and cheaper than replacing your transmission.

Tire pressure is very often neglected by car owners. Most people assume that their tires are fine because they look okay. Most people don't know that proper tire pressure is closely associated with their gas mileage. Proper tire pressure also makes your brakes and suspension system last longer.

The American Automobile Association (AAA) recommends that you have your tire pressure and condition checked for safety every time you visit the gas station to fill up your gas tank. It is also advisable that you check the condition of your tires prior to any long drives or vacations.

On the way for CARS!

2008-04-29T16:07:00.000-07:00

It is always nice to know all the pertinent information regarding a certain car that catches our interest. So, when we go to a dealer to purchase such vehicle we are well informed as far as its features and capabilities. This basic rule applies not only to cars and the automotive industry but to electronic gadgets, properties, and a lot more.

But when people hear the word "news" the first thoughts that come to mind are war, people killing each other, natural disasters, robberies, fashion, and any other event which catches our attention but there are in fact, all sorts of news and the automotive industry makes one of them.

It is very exciting to know when our favorite vehicle manufacturer comes up with new and improved models such as the Audi A4 (2009 model) or the all new Ferrari California. Before spending in such beautiful models it is a very intelligent thing to do to shop around, compare and actually read car review magazines or even better, blogs and forums which have active users who can share their experiences after owning a certain vehicle; networking is the key to a smart purchase.

Luckily, because of blogs, provide handy tools to keep subscribers up to date with the car’s latest fads and trends.

Other newsworthy event within the automotive industry are "car shows and conventions", depending on the place where you reside there are many ways to access up to the minute information about such events. Networking and exchanging ideas with other people around the world pays off, using the web to get detailed information about a certain vehicle leads towards a smarter decision which will satisfy not only your taste but your budget.

The Infiniti Manhattan drive!

2008-04-29T15:05:00.000-07:00

For sure, you’re just like me who crave for a perfect combination of latest technology and lavish comfort when it comes on owning a vehicle, right? Well, this is best defined by Infinity. A dream car for people and a craze for car freaks, the brand is one of the most desirable wheelers on the road. Driving is usually a pleasure for people, if a car is in sync with their demands. And here, Infiniti knows the best to entice all its customers. Especially after spending hours in office, you must take to enjoy the luxuries of driving Infiniti car. Other than its quality performance and killing looks, the cars from this brand are known to serve for years and years with its durable parts.

Manhattan Infiniti is ultimately the royal car of dignity and riding it is the most pleasurable experience. You would be tempted to buy it if you take a test drive. This is because great handwork has gone into its making and engineering. It is fitted with all the essential modern accessories after a lot of research. Different designs, models and ranges can be found for this car in the market. There are numerous fine colors to choose from, and to match your mood. And the car has been designed in a way to make driving comfortable and fun, even on crooked roads. It is thus well-equipped with flexible brakes n gears. With a great mileage to offer, this car won’t tire you even if you are required to travel long distances. The credit for this goes to intelligent engineering and a very modern technology. Infiniti Manhattan or any other state located Infiniti is the destination to all who are wishing to own Infiniti range of cars

All the parts of Infiniti car are assembled by the technically expert professionals, with years of experience in their respective arenas. Whenever your Infiniti part is damaged or worn out, directly step into the Infiniti dealer for a replacement. Do not ever get ready to buy a duplicate part as it may cause set of troubles and a poor performance. Therefore, it is always recommended for you to take care of this issue. The styles, models, exquisite range of colors are the added advantages if you decide to pick up Infiniti car. Even Manhattan Infinity has all the options of providing replacements. So, if Manhattan Infiniti is what you want, all you have to do is visit your nearest dealer to book your prize.

Power and Performance redefined with 2008 BMW M6

2008-04-26T09:30:00.000-07:00

The M6 is fast becoming a modern legend. With a 500-horsepower V10 engine powering this leather-lined performance-luxury two-door, little else is to be left for desire.

Aside from the handsome carbon-fiber-roofed M6 Coupe, the M6 Convertible also benefits from updates that the 2008 6-Series—on which the M models are based on—received for the new model year. These revisions include subtle styling enhancements, updated interior controls and details, revised exterior lighting, new standard and optional equipment and enhanced iDrive features for greater flexibility.

The 2008 M6 Coupe and M6 Convertible share styling cues that clearly identify it as the latest in the line from BMW M. The M6 Coupe features a full carbon-fiber roof panel, which not only reduces vehicle weight and improves handling, but also offers a visual statement on BMW’s commitment to performance.

Meanwhile, the M6 Convertible combines BMW M’s total performance philosophy and motorsports technology with the luxurious elegance and functionality of the BMW 6-Series. With its 2+2 seating, generous trunk space and a multi-layered soft-top, the open-air driving enthusiast has a whale of a time.

Cars with best Gas Mileage

2008-04-26T09:21:00.000-07:00

Today the numbers of people who drive cars are increasing rapidly and therefore Environmental Protection Agency has assembled a guide to educate the prospective car hunters about the fuel efficient cars that are available in market. Therefore, Environmental Protection Agency currently modified their testing methods along with lowering the MPG estimates for almost all vehicles. All the car models that have been launched in 2008 cars need to undergo new testing methods to decide whether they deserve the title of being the cars with best gas mileage.

You will find that the cars mentioned below can be considered one of the very few cars that offer excellent gas mileage.

1) Toyota Yaris:
This compact car is introduced in the year of 2007. This is a inexpensive car model. The EPA fuel economy of this car will allow you to travel across nearly 29 cities and 63 highways. The engine, which can be used with this compact, is of around 106 horsepower, with around 1.5liter I-4. Available transmission is of four speed automatic w/OD or 5-speed manual w/OD. This car designed squat and has miniscule overhangs. The car is 3 feet shorter and around an inch taller.

2) Honda Fit:
Honda also launched this car in the year of 2007. It is entry level subcompact void car. The EPA fuel economy of this car is for city is about 27 to 28 and that is for highway is around 33 to 34. For this compact car available engine is of about 109 horsepower and around 1.5 liters I-4. Available transmission with this car is 5 speed automatic w/OD and auto-manual. Another is 5-speed manual w/OD.

3) Hyundai Elantra:
This is the mid sized car having electronic stability system. Therefore it is safety consciousness. EPA economy of this midsize car is of about 24 to 25 cities and that is for the highways are about 33. Available engines with this car are 4-speed automatic w/OD and other is 5-speed manual w/OD. This is registered in 2007 and we will get both automatic and manual and most important gas mileage is around 30.

4) Pontiac Vibe:
This is the 2007 launched vehicle and is facilitate with a tire pressure monitoring system. This is the product from Toyota and General Motors. This car gives the EPA fuel economy for city is about 25-26 and that is for the highway is around 31 to 33. You can accommodate the engine; which are available is around 126 horsepower and 1.8 liters I-4. The available transmission is around 4-speed automatic w/OD and 5-speed manual w/OD. This car is able to give high gas mileage along with optional stability system.

The origin of remote control cars

2008-04-25T16:49:00.000-07:00

The beginnings of the remote control car can be traced back to the 1940s, when small, nitromethane-powered engines first entered the market. At the time, the only way to control an engine-powered model car was with a tether. While these cars were fast, they merely ran in a circle from the tether. In the late 1960s, the first miniaturized solid state radio control systems were introduced, allowing model cars to have servo-controlled steering, throttle, and brake functionality that could be remotely controlled from a transmitter unit.

Several early commercially viable remote control cars became available by 1966, produced by El-Gi (Elettronica Giocattoli), a company from Reggio Emilia, Italy. Their first remote control car model was a 1:12 Ferrari 250LM. This was followed by their 1:10 Ferrari P4 model, which was first shown at the Milan Toy Fair in early 1968. Between the mid to late 1960s, a British company called Mardave also began to produce commercially viable remote control cars. Their first products were nitro- or gas-powered cars which were sold in the early 1970s.

During that period, several commercial products were manufactured by small firms in the United States. Most of these companies started out as slot car companies, then moved into the remote control car field, which was becoming more popular. Early kits were 1/8 scale nitro-powered aluminum flat pan cars powered by a .21 or smaller engine, with the bodies made of polycarbonate.

In 1976, the Japanese firm Tamiya released a series of highly detailed but mechanically simple electric on-road car models. Although more expensive, these kits and radio systems sold quickly. Soon, Tamiya began to produce more purpose-built remote-controlled model cars, and were the first to release off-road buggies with real suspension systems. This allowed remote control cars to be driven virtually anywhere, not just on bitumen and smooth surfaces. It was this development toward the off-road class that brought about much of the hobby’s popularity.

Let your car run on Water!

2008-04-25T15:18:00.000-07:00

With the increasing price of gas, people are finding out new ways to run their car. Not only for gas, but prices for all kinds of petroleum products are on the rise. There are options of buying Hybrid cars, but it is not the solution. With the latest development in automobile technology, it is possible to convert your car to run on water. However, research shows that you can save up to $1000 per year if you convert your car to run on water. What you need to do to make your mission possible is to follow a guide or instruction module. You should have basic knowledge of using technical instruments like glue, screwdriver and nuts prior to this conversion.
Using water for gas is the first step to convert your car to run on water. But that does not mean pouring water directly into the gas chamber. The step involves usage of two very major generators of power to run a car. Here you have to use both water and gasoline in an equal proportion. This will thereby increase the gas mileage and cut down your expense to about 50% every month. Actually hydrogen is used to generate power in your car but now a conversion kit will help to generate hydrogen from water. Hydrogen generators are the perfect choice for your car.
Hydrogen conversion kits are readily available in the market. But you can also prepare hydrogen conversion kit at home. Use the best kits and tools to make your own hydrogen generators. You should be careful to use the kits and tools because using a wrong tool might cause inaptness. It is difficult to get higher quality tools and kits in an affordable price. You should buy an instructional manual first which gives you details on how to build a hydrogen converter. These manuals also offer you information on tools and kits that can be bought in an affordable price.
If you convert your car to run on water, the gas emission will be reduced, thus you’ll be running an environment friendly car. Lesser combustion of gas would add up more fuel to your life and will also increase the durability of your car. You will be no more affected by the increasing price of gas with this alternate fuel system. Now it is the perfect time to convert your car to run on water.

Are Sports Cars Losing Their Appeal?

2008-04-24T15:26:00.000-07:00

It is really true that sports cars are widely loved. But a quick survey of one's morning commute will show they are not the most popular vehicle type on the road. Four door sedans, SUV's, practical pickup trucks, and small economy cars dominate the automotive landscape. Sports cars seem to be an increasingly rare commodity. This is because other types of automobiles are increasingly able to take the best aspects of the sports car experience while avoiding some pitfalls inherent to the smaller speedsters.

For a long time, high performance was ruled by sports cars. Manufacturers used their sports car line to showcase new developments and design elements. Today, however, it appears many of these great qualities can be easily adapted to other car types.

The lighter construction of today's cars, coupled with improvements in technology, has allowed family sedans to perform almost on par with sports cars. In fact, many of today's "standard" offerings outperform the higher end sports cars of only a few years ago. Even SUV and trucks boast technology and performance that were unthinkable only a short while ago.

The automobile has evolved to a point where virtually any type of car can capture sports car technology. Regular production cars handle better than ever before and the only performance advantages to sports cars can only be realized under extreme driving conditions few will ever encounter. A sports car may hug a lynchpin turn at high speeds, for instance, better than the family sedan, but one must wonder how often any family will be trying to set speed records on mountain roads.

While today's regular production models can steal some of the sports cars' thunder, they can also offer some unique advantages over their smaller counterparts. Sports cars are notorious for their small size. Although this helps in handling and speed, it makes longer drives less comfortable while making every day use less practical. Larger cars have a utilitarian advantage that sports cars simply cannot match.

It was once sensible to trade some comfort for superior performance, but with modern standard autos now performing so well, the tradeoff seems less and less sensible. This seems apparent when one looks at the kind of cars people are buying: larger vehicles with greater seating capacity.

Additionally, the limited utility of sports cars makes them increasingly rare due to economic considerations. Few families today can afford to purchase and maintain a hobby car. By and large, people expect to use the vehicles they purchase on an every day basis. The old days of having a little convertible in the garage to use for occasional bursts of summer fun no longer seems like an economically feasible diversion for most people.

Originally, sports cars were designed specifically with rallies and contests in mind. Auto producers tested their design and mechanical skills against one another as they sought out ways to increase automobile performance. Later, sports cars became popular for mainstream drivers who were seeking greater performance from their vehicles. Lately, however, regular production cars have evolved and now come with the higher performance parts and construction once reserved for sports cars.

This may spell the eventual end for traditional sports cars, although producers are sure to maintain a small fleet of developmental performance cars with which to test new ideas. In the end, we may see a return to the sports cars of yesterday-cars designed specifically and almost exclusively to test new ideas, as opposed to popular cars for the larger public.

With each passing year, it seems, one notices fewer and fewer true sports cars on the road. This trend is not likely to be reversed any time soon, as more practical alternatives exist and the performance gap is shortened. Although the true sports car will probably never completely disappear, it is likely to become increasingly less visible to the public.

Vintage!

2008-04-23T16:14:00.000-07:00

A vintage car is commonly defined as a car built between the start of 1919 and the end of 1930. There is little debate about the start date of the Vintage period—the end of World War 1 is a nicely defined marker there—but the end date is a matter of a little more debate. The British definition is strict about 1930 being the cut-off, while some American sources prefer 1925 since it is the pre-classic car period as defined by the Classic Car Club of America. Others see the Classic period as overlapping the Vintage period, especially since the Vintage designation covers all vehicles produced in the period while the official Classic definition does not, only including high-end vehicles of the period. Some consider the start of World War II to be the end date of the Vintage period.

The Vintage period in the automotive world was a time of transition. The car started off in 1919 as still something of a rarity, and ended up in 1930 well on the way towards ubiquity; in fact, automobile production at the end of this period was not matched again until the 1950s. During this period, most industrialized nations built a nationwide road system, with the result that towards the end of the period, the ability to negotiate unpaved roads was no longer required.
Cars became much more practical, convenient and comfortable during this period. Car heating was introduced, as was the in-car radio. Antifreeze was introduced, allowing water-cooled cars to be used year-round. Four-wheel braking from a common foot pedal was introduced, as was the use of hydraulically actuated brakes. Power steering was also an innovation of this era. Towards the end of the Vintage era, the system of octane rating of fuel was introduced, allowing comparison between fuels.

During this period, as well as the car adapting, society began to adapt to the car. Drive-in restaurants were introduced, as well as suburban shopping centers and motels began lining major roads in the United States.

Secrets revealed for Better Gas Mileage

2008-04-23T14:13:00.000-07:00

Everyone is affected by the increase in gas prices. The increased cost at the gas pump has many families needing to tighten their budgets. Well, one way to decrease your cost at the pump is to increase your gas mileage. This may seem a clear solution, but there are several ways to improve gas mileage that are easy to do.

One of the best ways of increasing gas mileage is to maintain your vehicle. Make sure the tires are properly inflated. Having the right amount of pressure in tires can significantly increase your gas mileage. Make sure that when you have your oil changed, that your air filter is checked. Having a clean air filter also affects gas mileage. Making sure that you properly maintain your car not only increases gas mileage, but it also helps extend the life of your car. With people watching their budgets more closely, they tend to drive their cars for longer periods of time.

Another way to increase gas mileage is to watch your driving habits. There are several things that each driver does routinely that can impact gas mileage. The most known tip regarding this is to decrease your speed. By driving the speed limit you can greatly improve your gas mileage. This also increases your safety and the safety of others on the road. When driving in the city try to avoid rapid acceleration.

Rapid acceleration greatly decreases gas mileage. Excessive breaking also uses more gas. To get the most out of each gallon of gas try to avoid doing this. Excessive breaking or traveling the break is often a habit that young drivers get into, because of lack of confidence. It pays to discuss this with your teenage driver.

If you are in the market for a new car and are worried about getting the best gas mileage possible, consider one of the hybrid cars. There are more models to choose from due to the rise in gas prices. Several of the hybrid models get extremely good gas mileage. The hybrid car is improving in appearance, availability and performance. The high price of gas has caused many manufactures to increase their production of the hybrid car to give consumers better gas mileage. Due to the increase in the number of hybrid cars produced, there is no longer the waiting list to contend with when purchasing one. Most car dealers have several hybrid models to choose from on their showroom floor.

In addition to changing your driving habits to increase gas mileage, you can also cut down on the number of trips you make with your vehicle. If you are going a short distance consider walking or riding a bike. Try to incorporate as many errands into one trip as possible so that you will decrease the miles you drive. Small changes in habits can save money at the pump by improving gas mileage.

The All-new 2009 Dodge Journey

2008-04-22T16:10:00.000-07:00

Chrysler Group's Dodge division introduces the all-new Dodge Journey crossover sport utility vehicle (SUV). Dodge said this model will answer the needs of the drivers all over the world. The vehicle is already available this year as a 2009 model.

"The all-new Dodge Journey gives our customers the entire package. With its unique combination of purposeful versatility and bold, youthful styling, this new vehicle from Dodge delivers safety, quality and reliability at a great value. Journey also blends innovative technology, entertainment features and useful storage, all wrapped together with an attitude that can only be Dodge." said Michael Manley, Executive Vice President - International Sales, Marketing and Business Development, Chrysler.

The all-new Dodge Journey embodies the exterior styling of Dodge models with aggressive stance and muscular exterior design cues. Exterior highlights of the 2009 Dodge Journey include the signature Dodge crosshair chrome grille, quad halogen headlamps, horizontal aluminum hood, and long daylight opening. low-gloss black appliqués on the B- and C-pillars, high-contrast black roof rack with buffed stainless steel roof rails, LED center high mounted stop lamp (CHMSL), lightweight lift gate with integrated spoiler, chrome-tipped dual exhausts, and 19-inch wheels wrapped with performance tires. Customers can also install vent visor for additional appeal. In addition, the Dodge Journey will offer several exterior colors including Inferno Red Crystal Pearl Coat, Light Sandstone Metallic Clear Coat, Melbourne Green Pearl Coat, Deep Water Blue Pearl Coat, Silver Steel Metallic Clear Coat, Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat, Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl Coat and Stone White Clear Coat.

Moving inside, the Dodge Journey offers a spacious, comfortable, flexible, and practical interior. The vehicle sums with a 5+2-passenger seating with other features like Flip 'N Stow(TM) in-seat storage, child presenter seat, integrated child booster seats, Tip 'N Slide(TM) second-row seats, and 50/50-split-folding third-row seat. For the interior's design, the Dodge Journey comes in with a two-tone color scheme with high-contrast dark and light colors. Moreover, three types of seat upholstery are also offered like cloth, YES Essentials stain-resistant odor-resistant anti-static seat fabric, and leather. Other interior features include My GIG(TM) multimedia audio and entertainment system, available U-Connect(TM) hands-free communication system with Bluetooth cellular phones, Chill Zone(TM) cooled beverage storage bin, and available Parkview(TM) Rear Backup Camera.

Of course, the Dodge Journey also features a host of active and passive safety equipments to protect its occupants. These features include the advanced multi-stage front air bags, low-risk deployment air bags, front seat-mounted side air bags, supplemental side air bag inflatable curtains with extended up time, structural driver and front passenger knee bolsters, Anti-lock brakes (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Brake Assist, Traction Control, Electronic Roll Mitigation, Tire Pressure Monitoring (TPM), and Side Guard Door Beams in front and rear doors.

The all-new 2009 Dodge Journey comes in three model trims: SE, SXT and R/T. The 2.4-liter World Engine is standard for all models, and will be combined with a standard four-speed automatic or a five-speed manual gearbox. Dodge Journey R/T and R/T AWD models feature a standard 3.5-liter V-6 engine. A 2.0-liter turbo diesel engine is also with a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transaxle.

Chrysler Group did not yet release the manufacturer's suggested retail price for the Dodge Journey.

2007 Mini Cooper S Superbug live!

2008-04-19T16:55:00.001-07:00

The Mini Cooper S is a small, very friendly looking car with a traditional design but a modern engine and features. The very first Mini was launched on the market in 1961 by the British Motor Corporation (BMC), belonging to the supermini class of automobiles.

The genuine Mini is considered an emblem of the 1960s, being of great inspiration to the car makers in that time that noticed the clever space saving front-wheel-drive layout. The Mini Cooper was very popular among celebrities in the 60s and the 70s but it hasn't lost its fame today.

The history of the Minis is long and BMC has launched a great number of successful models of Minis throughout the last decades. There are the MK I Mini the MK II Mini, variants to these, plus the Mini Cooper and the Cooper S. Mini Cooper and the Cooper S were considered two economical models, the price being affordable to almost anyone. These very sporty and speedy cars, so many people preferred them.

Mini Cooper S has made history in the rally races as well, obtaining some victories at the Monte Carlo Rallis in the 1960s. The famous Nikki Lauda, Enzo Ferrari and Steve McQueen all owned Mini Coopers. However, the Mini was voted as the second most influential car of the twentieth century, being beaten only by the Ford model T.

Unfortunately, the Cooper S was produced up till 2000, but a new Mini was introduced by BMW, the owner of the brand. This fresh mini car was called the MINI written in capital letters. The new MINI is worthy of its name, keeping many of the old characteristic features of the mini Cooper but getting some state of the art features also. The Cooper S is considered a sporty version of Mini. It is two doors only and a 6 speed manual transmission.

The Mini Cooper S features a multifunction steering wheel plus an up to date navigation system, glass panel sunroof, automatic air conditioning and many more. These are only the standard options to which you can add some other extras. Even if the S is a small car, it has force and is very speedy. It has strong suspensions, precise go-kart handling and great transmission.

You can be sure that the Mini will offer you great safety with the ABS, the Connecting Brake Control, Electronic Brake force distribution as well as the Brake assist feature, which are all included in the standard package on\f the Mini Cooper S. you can also get the automatic stability control and traction features plus the dynamic stability control. For the Cooper S manufacturers’ safety comes first. All in all, the Mini S is a car with great personality and looks, speedy, inexpensive and safe. Enjoy the ride and the car as well.

Nissan Skyline shines once again

2008-04-19T14:53:00.000-07:00

The Nissan Skyline is a strong Japanese car of middle size. The tradition of the Nissan Skyline dates back in the early 1960s, when Nissan started to manufacture this successful model. The Skyline is very well sold in North America, Korea, Middle East or Taiwan.

The Nissan Skyline is also called the Infiniti G 35, having an FR layout. The Nissan Skyline can also be purchased in coupe or sedan models.

In 1957, when the very first Skyline was launched, Nissan has tagged the car as being a luxury car. But in over 4 decades of production, Nissan has greatly improved the model and made it a great car with excellent features, available at for people who want a quality ride.

The last generation of Nissan Skylines launched on the market is the 12th generation. This was recently launched in late 2006 and is available only as a 4-door sedan. The 11th generation Nissan Skylines were a great success and this model has been available in the sedan style from 2001 till 2006 and in the coupe since 2001. The 11th generation Skyline features two doors in coupe and 4 doors in sedan and boasts with a strong engine and an outstanding weight distribution of up to 52%. The sedan models have the all-wheel layout. The V35 front midship engine has 280 horsepower. The torque of the engine is more than 368 kw, and will ensure high resistance and stability for the road.

Nissan has introduced the Skylines in the racing scene as well, having two generations of race Skylines so far. These race GT-R Skylines are very powerful and can achieve great speed, just think about the fact that the scale meter can go up to 320 km per hour.

You might be familiar with a Nissan Skyline R 33 from the Fast and the Furious film and its sequels using also some Nissan Skyline models.

However, the Nissan Skyline is endowed with great safety features such as airbags for the front as well as the back seats and air bags for the sides as well.

The price tag of a Nissan Skyline can be very spicy and not available for any pocket, but rumor has it that it will be on sale in the US in 2008, with a price of around $ 65,000. So beware, the Nissan Skyline is closer than you imagine.

While driving the comfortable Nissan Skyline you will feel the speed and you will be near wild heaven. Once on board of a Skyline you will never want to drive in anything else. And remember, sky is the limit!

All things considered, the Nissan Skyline or the Infiniti G 35 is a very sturdy car, yet pricey but highly comfortable and satisfactory for speed lovers and people who simply enjoy a quality car.

Practicality of Toyota Avanza

2008-04-17T15:39:00.000-07:00

With several choices of vehicles in the market nowadays, it is indeed difficult to find one that is practical and at the same time boosts style and appeal. But with the new sleek Toyota Avanza, style is not away from the package, coupled with its three practical uses.

1. Make it into a school bus
With the capacity to comfortably seat seven people, you can make extra dough by making a school bus of Toyota Avanza! That’s extra cash for something you really have to do for junior anyway. There is enough space at the back for the bags and backpacks of them brats, too.

2. Deliver the goods in style
So, your wife finally accepted a catering job that includes cooking the dishes and serving them, too. How would you transport all them kitchen tools and catering supplies? Get the Avanza, fold and tuck away chairs, and use that big space. Surely, those bulky shaving dishes, plates, and cooler will fit in there.

3. Go on a worry-free excursion
Say goodbye or hiring a vehicle and then having to endure pothole boogies and rolling plastic bags on the floor. Not only has the Avanza got space for everyone, it also has its compartments to hold bottle, chips, and other road trip essentials. Its highly rigid chassis and suspension makes the Avanza a sleek, pot-hole-ignoring ride.

MP3 what?

2008-04-17T14:47:00.000-07:00

Admit it! The mp3 player has now become a stable part of many people's lives, right? Not only are they small and versatile, but also they provide the user with hours of music listening time without having to keep changing CD's or tapes. And now, to add more spice while driving, MP3’s can be used on cars.

Actually, there are different ways on how you can use mp3 player in your car and so no longer will you need to worry about carrying your favorite CD's in the car in the future. Plus you have the added benefit of knowing that you can remove your mp3 player from your car and take it with you.

Nearly all mp3 players will have a port in which you connect your headphones. But in order for you to play your mp3 player in your car you will need to find a way of connecting this to the head unit using the headphone port. Below is one method that you may want to try.

Auxiliary In

This method will provide you with the best audio quality possible, in fact it is just about as good as the audio produced by a CD. Numerous head units (radios) in cars today have a front auxiliary input (known as the Aux-In) that allows you to plug directly from your mp3 player into the head unit.

However there are other methods that you may want to try if you do not happen to have a head unit that has an auxiliary in feature with it.

Cassette Tape Adapter

This device provides an easy and straightforward method of hooking up an external device such as an mp3 player to your car stereo system. All you have to do is place the cassette tape in to the car's tape player and then attach the other end to the headphone or line out jack situated on your mp3 player.

However, there are a number of drawbacks to this method. Firstly you need to have cassette player in your car (which unfortunately is becoming much less common in more modern cars) and secondly you will often the sound quality is reduced.

FM Transmitter

This system will transmit an audio signal of the mp3 player to a specified FM frequency when it is plugged into the FM transmitter. What happens is that the FM stereo in your car is then able to pick up the sounds as if it was actually receiving a regular FM broadcast from a radio station.

So there are plenty of ways to answer the question how you can use your mp3 player in your car. Just decide on which one will suit best for you.

With Common Sense - Car Crashes can be avoided!

2008-04-16T16:45:00.000-07:00

It is undeniably true that increasing number of accidents takes place everyday. If you want to eliminate road hazards as much as possible defensive driving is always the best thing to do. Of course, most of the accidents don't have serious consequences, but it's not always the case.

An astounding 90% of all the accidents happen due to human error or negligence. The other known causes for accidents are vehicle problems and faulty road maintenance. Of course, vehicle problems can also occur because of bad maintenance from the owner's part. To avoid this, certain principles must be observed as a responsible car owner.

KEEP YOUR CAR IN GOOD SHAPE
The first prevention method is clear: take good care of your car! This prevention method starts even before going on the road, and don't make the mistake of neglecting it. Make sure that you have your car inspected from time to time.

TAKE ANNUAL EYE TESTS
I'm sure it's not going to come as a surprise to you if one is not allowed to drive with poor eyesight. Even before a driving license is given, there is a need to take medical tests, out of which the most important may be the eye test. I mean, a driver who can't see well is a danger to all participants to the traffic, not only to himself. Regular eye tests are a must because the acuity of your eyes can drop as you get older.

DRINK AS MUCH AS YOU WANT, BUT NOT WHEN YOU ARE WITH THE CAR

One out of seven road deaths are caused by drivers who are drunk. I know it sounds a little bit harsh, but unfortunately this is the reality. Indeed accidents happen because someone drove under the influence alcohol.

BE CAREFUL AT NIGHT
Just because the road is clearer doesn't mean that you really have to go faster. Driving at night is much more difficult than during the day, and the reason is obvious: your vision is greatly affected by darkness. So try to clean up your windshield and drive more carefully. You need more concentration when you are on the road at night, because your eyes are much solicited.

FASTEN YOUR SEATBELT
Many drivers ignore the seatbelt, although if used properly it could have saved many lives each year. Make sure that you tighten it as much as you can before going on the road.

TRY NOT TO TALK ON YOUR MOBILE PHONE
Talking on the mobile phone while driving is truly a distraction from the road ahead. If you add to that high speed and/or poor weather conditions, it can indeed lead to disaster. You are 4 times more likely to get involved in a car accident if you are talking on your mobile phone while driving.

So these are some basic principles that every driver should know. Though this may seem to be just a bit of common sense, hence these prevention measures can drastically decrease your chances of getting involved in an accident if well observed.

Cadillac – symbolizing Luxury and Prestige!

2008-04-15T15:44:00.000-07:00

The Cadillac brand of cars belongs to one of the most prestigious car manufacturing companies in the United States of America - General Motors. The very name General Motors gives you a sense of satisfaction and presents a luxurious atmosphere, which is part and parcel of the brand. Hence, owning a good brand of car gives a different kind of relaxed and relieved feeling to the owner, which makes you a proud owner of the car.

It enhances the proud feeling of the owner in a good sense. General Motors is one of the oldest car manufacturing companies in the United States and Cadillac, one of the most popular cars on road. It is a symbol of prestige, style and luxury.

General Motors is the market leader among car manufacturing companies in America. Cadillac Sports Utility Vehicles have made an entry in the market and are getting popular day by day. A few years back it was the small size luxury cars that Cadillac was known for but now the Sports Utility Vehicles have also gained popularity.

Hottah hottah - The 2007 Mercedes SL Roadster

2008-04-15T13:40:00.000-07:00

Year 2007 has definitely brought significant improvements in the two-seat roadsters of Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, both in the exterior and interior design, as well as the engine. All SL-Class models have been provided with larger and more powerful engines, seven speed automatic and a welcome lessening of the noise vibration level.

The retractable hard-top, adapted from its predecessors, can be raised or lowered, transforming the car from roadster to coupe and back in just 16 seconds, through an advanced hydraulic system.

True to its half a century commitment to offering fast, light and gorgeous cars, the top German producer has outdone itself once again, this time by introducing higher standards of stability and safety. Make no mistake about it, the 2007 Mercedes SL-Class is much more than just another piece of jewelry on wheels.

The 5.5 liter V-8 engine with 382 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 391 pounds-feet torque ensures not only amazing cruising speeds, but also an astonishing resistance to long distances. The same engine ensures an acceleration from zero to 100 km/h in a dazzling 5.3 seconds.

A four wheel independent suspension together with the hydraulic system and the 18-inch tires, ensure a quality drive on different kinds of surfaces, eliminating body roll and maintaining stability even during bumpy rides. The standard safety features are truly state-of-the art, including all-disc anti lock brakes, front and side airbags, a knee airbag on the driver's side, head restraints and an electronic stability system.

Another plus is the extra space in the trunk, even when the top is folded, a rather rare feature as far as convertibles are concerned. The seven-speed automatic transmission accounts for lower fuel consumption and less noise, through the quick up-shifts, although this can sometimes result in a temporary decrease of power from the engine.

The inside of the car is covered in soft leather, including the seats, doors, steering wheel, and dashboard, and although the main control panel is operated through buttons placed next to the screen, instead of a touch-screen system, which makes it slightly harder to operate.

This amazing car has, however, a few drawbacks, the most important of which being the relatively high degree of difficulty when it comes to operating control panels for air conditioning and the audio system. Also, the brake pedal often responds in a non-linear manner, creating a slight state of anxiety for the less accustomed driver. The costs (both of purchase and of maintenance) remain quite high, making it available to only a lucky few drivers.

Optional features include front and rear parking sensors, a glass roof, adaptive cruise control and the wood trim package for an extra touch of class.

All features considered, the new models of Mercedes SL-Class remain a top choice for drivers on a high budget and great taste, looking for a fast, powerful and beautiful car as well as a fashion statement.

Volkswagen Beetle

2008-04-12T16:05:00.000-07:00

Volkswagen is considered to be a leading an automobile producer based company in Wolfsburg of Germany. It outlines the foundation of Volkswagen Group and is treated as the world's fourth largest car manufacturer whose name is counted after Toyota, GM and Ford respectively. The term Volkswagen is Germany signifies "people's car".

There were always various types and styles of cars in the market and hundreds of them came in and went out of it every now and then. But one that remains with pride and honor, perhaps with the greatest of dignity and huge popularity is the Volkswagen Beetle. The Beetle as some say has actually been reigning for seventy long years and certainly the best is yet to come. Rarely any car manufacturer has that prestige to claim a success of such a degree, which Beetle has achieved.

Though with time, the technology on which the cars were built kept improving and they were made faster, stylish et al. Whereas Volkswagen Beetle was firmly grounded to its roots and delivered what it delivers best.

Agreed that with time the Beetle too has undergone certain subtle changes, but the manufacturer made sure that the “asset” never loses its charm or its looks. The interesting part is, that the Beetle beauty has been reigning for nearly a century but the newer models look similar to the ones prevalent from the beginning. Thus, making it a true passion for the thousands of its fans, young or aged.

The Volkswagen Beetle is not just another car kept at your garage. A genuine buyer, the one who knows what it means to own a Beetle, actually makes it a friend and treat the same with love and care. They act like lovers, and virtually do not keep any stone unturned to keep the friend up and running always. In return, the Beetle too keeps its friends happy by being a faithful car and always ranking at the top, when it came to delivering stability with style. The lovers of Beetle give a name to this “wonder on wheels” and surprisingly enough the car too lasts forever and keeps serving.

For many an old fashioned individual, this car is like a status symbol to them. Even if they cannot own one, they make sure that they get the most beautiful Beetle from one of the rent-a-car company and delve into their old passion. They say, it gives them a sense of fulfillment and enhances their personality, making them a distinguished lot from the mass.

As far as the model of the Beetle goes, some people might get into thinking that how come it attended so much success compared its bumpy rides, high noise levels and weak power compared to the comforts of a luxury sedan. It is very obvious to lead someone to the perception of Beetle as one of the industry failure. But the truth is that, it met its greatest challenge and became the most produced vehicle for one single design.

No matter what the technology is , no matter what the design is, Volkswagen Beetle has been a trendsetter in the segment of compact cars, and it did what it was ought to , and in the process proved many a car manufacturer a run for their own market share.

The convertible option!

2008-04-12T15:03:00.000-07:00

Bearing the symbol letter M like wings stretching to soar for the future, Mazda is envisioned to create new value, excite and delight to their customers through the best automotive products and services. Being the first automotive company to produce a car that can run on hydrogen fuel, the Japanese auto maker has also proven that it builds not just user-friendly cars but environment-friendly vehicles as well.

If you are looking for a convertible, Mazda Miata can be a very good option. The Miata received its first complete makeover last year. It currently sports a new unibody, new skin, a new interior, a new power train — basically new everything, including upgraded performance parts.

With the entry of rivals like the Pontiac Solstice, the MX-5 inadvertently lost its least-expensive-roadster title, but the much-loved roadster still remains a cult favorite because of its all-around goodness: it is fast, agile, refined, quiet, roomy, comfortable, and not to mention, better-looking.

Coming in different, sleek and sexy colors like the classic red, brilliant black, and mariner blue, Mazda Miata remains one of the best cars out there – the perfect small convertible for those sweet, soaring road trips that reminds you just how good life is.

When beauty and practicality combined!

2008-04-11T14:02:00.000-07:00

Honda is known for designs that really create an impact like for instance the Element SUV that has created quite a buzz since it was introduced in late 2002.

The Element SUV is in itself is just your average car without the trimmings but Honda’s extra ordinary designing prowess has turned it into one of the most appealing SUVs available in the market. Its everyday usability boosts further by the large amount of storage provisions, a versatile cargo area, comfortable accommodations, and economical fuel consumption makes it the perfect vehicle for families. The four-seat Element was given a number of improvements of which include an updated styling and a more solid drivetrain. It also added new safety features such as side curtain airbags and an electronic stability system. The SC Trim with Better New Styling. The Element variants include the LX, EX, and SC or Street Custom. The LX and EX are offered in front or all-wheel drive while the SC comes only with front-wheel drive.

In addition, the LX and the EX sport are equipped modest headlights and a twin-bar grille meanwhile the SC was given an entirely different feature. It was given a more tuned-up appearance highlighted by its intimidating headlights, a darkened grille, 18-inch wheels, monochromatic ground effects and a sport-tuned suspension.

All Element variants are powered by the potent 2.4 liter four-cylinder, offered with either a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission. The engine revs up 166 horsepower and 161 pounds-feet of torque.

The Element possesses a wind-catching shape but despite such it remains well planted on the highway even when running at high speed. There is also nothing to be said when it comes to its transmission since it kicks down with minimal delay delivering quite a performance. The standard four-wheel-disc antilock brakes keep the Element safe. Depending on the driveline and transmission, the highway gas mileage of an Element SUV varies from 23 to 25 mpg.

Live and let live with eco friendly cars

2008-04-11T13:01:00.000-07:00

With difficulty on my everyday transportation, from the house going to the office, from the office to the shopping center, and elsewhere, I’m thinking’ of buying my own car. But with lots of choices nowadays, I really find it hard to choose as to what make and model I am going to invest in. However, thinking of our environments dilemma on pollution, it would be an advantage to invest on an eco-friendly vehicle right? An eco friendly car as compared with car that releases tons of carbon monoxide into the atmosphere is of great help. It is as if you’re livin by the saying… “Live and let live.”

Right now, the environment is suffering so much because of the toxic chemicals that are injected into the atmosphere. There are so many harmful substances that are making our planet almost uninhabitable. If the human race continues to burn fossil fuels at an exorbitant rate, the human race will completely succumb to a failing atmosphere. What will humans breathe when there is no more air left? If the human race wants to continue to live on this earth then a lot of stepping up will be needed in terms of fossil fuel consumption.

I think that buying an eco car nowadays is all about making a statement to everyone. You are telling everyone that you are concerned about the atmosphere and you are doing your part in saving the world. Buying an eco car and driving it around tells everyone that you are being a responsible human being and a responsible inhabitant of the earth. So, just like me, it would be of great help if we will spend our hard-earned money to an exquisite and at the same time environmental-friendly machine.

Your Car, Audio, Video & you

2008-04-10T15:44:00.000-07:00

There are some who consider buying a car is more important than buying a house. After all, a car provides mobility, and could help one to earn while a house is considered by some as a dead investment. But this is an entirely another story.

If you own a car, then you would agree that besides keeping your car in optimum performance, it would not hurt to put some comfort in it, right?

Mostly, the first things owners of a newly acquired car would do, besides putting it to a joyful ride, is to put in some stuff, accessories, or 'blings'. This personalization of the car could be as simple as providing car audio and video system.

CAR AUDIO SYSTEM

Installing a decent audio system could be one (if not the most) of the best 'personalization' you could do to your car.

By decent, we don't mean giving your arm and leg for it. You can easily put together one with less cost. You can easily find bargains over the internet for a good head unit with a CD player, amplifiers, equalizer, replacement for the factory speakers, and sub-woofers, etc.

CAR VIDEO

If you opt for those kick-ass video kits, you are assured of quality and satisfaction but you must be prepared to shell out a much bigger money. If you wish, you can also buy cheaper by buying the different components separately. You can buy an in-dash monitor and an equally cheaper DVD player. Just make sure you have a qualified (if you are not comfortable doing it yourself) technician to install the components for you.

Besides emphasizing the usability, convenience, and efficiency of your car, we should not disregard the main reason for its existence: you. A car could also provide some measure of comfort for both you and your passenger. A good audio system could help ease up a long and tiring trip. Driving the wife for groceries? You could park in the shade and wait in the car watching your favorite DVD. Tired of endless 'Are we there yet?' questions from impatient and irritable kids on a long drive? Pop in a Hannah Montana DVD or High School Musical movie and these will keep your kids occupied backseat, you'd even forget they're there.

A daydream ride on a Limo

2008-04-10T14:43:00.000-07:00

Since I was just a little kid, one of my greatest dream is to own a marvelous vehicle like a limo, or if not, just a ride on it. (lol) I thought only the prosperous and legendary people deserve a ride in a limo. However, with my uncle owning a Limo, I have come to experience traveling in the comfort of a Limousine.

But how do you recognize a limo from other vehicles? Traditionally, a limo is a very long luxury car, usually black or white. However, other colors such as blue, pink or magenta are also suitable. Limos are sometimes privately owned while others are own by governments to transport statesmen and high level guests and heads of states of foreign countries.

But nowadays, there are Limos that can be rented to a drive on cities if you would also want to feel the joy and comfort riding on it. So, it is not definitely just daydream to ride on a Limo. Just be sure to have enough money for the rent! (lol)

If you do take a ride in a limo, you will find yourself sitting in the rear compartment that is separated from the driver’s section by a sliding glass window for privacy. So, take a ride and feel the difference of royal family, of luxury. Thanks uncle! You have my daydream ride have indeed come true!

Another hip car from Toyota!

2008-04-09T16:42:00.000-07:00

From the vehicle models that I have featured here on my prebious post about a week ago under Toyota, here is another hip Toyota model which is the FT-HS. the FT-HS -- according to Toyota, the car answers the question “What sports car suits the 21st century concept?” The FT-HS is a mid-priced sports car that integrates ecology and emotion, pairing a potent hybrid power train with essential sports-car fundamentals.

Using a powerful V6 3.5L engine, the FT-HS is coupled with Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive to produce a target power output of approximately 400 horsepower and a projected zero-to-60 acceleration in the four-second range.

The roof has a distinctive scooped-out section designed to reduce aerodynamic drag and provide head room at the key areas.

The FT-HS's interior features “create a dedicated driver's cockpit” that includes a cross-car instrument panel structure and delta-wing driver pod. Creating an enclosed pod effect an integrated instrument panel surrounds the driver. When the roof retracts, the 4 seats are converted to a seat good for two. This is indeed another milestone from Toyota. No doubt that Toyota will continuously be a renowned make in the automobile industry.

Keep your car’s interior clean for an enjoyable and comfy ride

2008-04-09T10:43:00.000-07:00

I know it. No one wants to ride a messy car right? Well, if you want to keep your car clean. Then you’ve got to do some tasks that will maintain its neat appearance. You can always make your car look brand new. Here are some tips that may come in handy the next time you clean the interior of your car. First, you should always make it a point to have clean seat covers. It is going to be difficult to manage a car's interior without seat covers because if something spills directly on to the seats without seat cover, it would be very difficult to clean. Simply wash your seat covers every month and you will keep your car smelling fresh and brand new all the time.

Second, consider getting floor mats for your car. Floor mats or car mats are essential to protect the flooring of your car. Without floor mats, any one who rides your car will dirty it with their shoes. All the dirt from the outside will go directly to the floor of your car. You certainly do not want this to happen to your car every time someone rides it. If you want your floor mats to be more presentable then get the carpeted ones. Although they are harder to clean, they generally look better inside.

Third, consider buying an air freshener. There are a lot of great air fresheners out there. If you want to make sure that you car will smell fresh constantly then you should certainly purchase an air freshener that is attachable to the air conditioner or the vent. You can use the spray air fresheners from time to time but if you want a perpetually fresh smelling car then the standard attachable air fresheners would be great.

Fourth, you have to keep your air conditioner conditioned. This means that you have to check your air conditioner as often as possible. Most air conditioners have to be cleaned every six months so you might want to have your air conditioner checked if it is starting to smell a little bit off already.

Finally, you have to make sure that you vacuum the whole car so that any dirt particles or unwanted matter is sucked out of the vehicle. This will keep your car bacteria free and it will certainly make your car smelling fresher than normal. If your car is fresh all the time, you will certainly enjoy riding it and even having passengers on it.

Eco Cars of this generation

2008-04-08T15:41:00.000-07:00

Eco cars come in different types nowadays. The most common eco car that you will find today is the hybrid. (I have already featured this on my previous posts) The hybrid is basically a car that can run on fuel and hydrogen. This is the kind of car that symbolizes the transition from fossil fuels to renewable sources of energy. If you want to take a step forward right now but you are not fully ready to give up your addiction to gasoline then these hybrid cars are the way to go. Both Toyota and Honda are leading the way in this department.

Other eco cars that are out there utilize bio fuels. These bio fuelled vehicles are not yet so popular. Solar powered cars are also taking the stage although they are mostly used in competitions and exhibits now. Will there be a commercially available solar car for consumers soon? This is something to look forward to although you never know. These things may not be too far out in the future. You may be driving a solar powered car in the next ten years or so.

If you do not care about the environment and you want the atmosphere to be destroyed then continue burning fossil fuels like there is no tomorrow. Think about the way you consume things. Think about the way you consume gasoline. Think about the way you live. Think about the future. Now is the time for making a change. Now is the time to buy these eco cars. You want to leave a better tomorrow for your children. You want them to breathe peacefully and live in harmony. Eco cars are the way to go.

Exterior car body accessories that can be used

2008-04-08T14:39:00.000-07:00

There are actually several good reasons in accessorizing a vehicle. One is, when you want your car to look brand new even if it is as old as you. (lol) Remember, a car without accessories is just like a home without furniture or a garden without flowers.

Adding them to your car means minimizing the risk factor while maximizing the comfort level. If alloy wheels are there to make the wheels dazzling, then security alarms are there to keep you free from tension. If exterior body styling are there then interior car styling are also available.
Ideally, accessories are needed to equip car for higher comfort or for better capability. Your car and you deserve to have the most significant accessories without so much time needed for accessorizing. Though the car can still serve its purpose without these accessories but, it may not be that attractive at all.

So, if you want to make your car stand out from others and you want it to look on its best and make it as comfortable place, then you should care to put accessories on it.

These are some of the accessories which you can put as its exterior car bodies accessories like dash kits, body kits, alloy wheels, car security and alarms, lock-wood dials rear spoilers, snooper DPS detectors, roof boxes, racks etc. are mostly used. Interior designs or accessories may also include the following: gear knobs, tax disc holders, pedal sets, leather gaiters, handbrake handles and loads are frequently in use.

There are also accessories that are designed for specific season. Winter car accessories may include designs for winter like snow chains and protection from frost, tybond covers, wiper blades for winter, spoilers, and light brows.

You can also use various types of lights like rear style lights, halo ring headlights, indicators and side repeaters add attraction to any car and contribute in increasing its security level as well.

So, there are indeed various accessories that you can add on your ride. all you need to do is to find the perfect match according to your vehicle’s make and model.

Toyota on top with PM, NLSV and Hybrid X!

2008-04-05T15:40:00.000-07:00

Toyota proves to be still one of the most famous automobile brands in the industry. Five of its surely most awaited concept vehicles include the PM, NLSV, and Hybrid X.

The PM is a personal mobility vehicle that fits car race. Its very small appearance makes it very sporty yet stylish. According to the Toyota website, the car’s cutting-edge vehicle-to-vehicle communications technologies are employed under the concept of "meeting, linking and hanging out together".

The NLSV meanwhile, features a huge, wireless electric sliding door on the passenger side and a flatter and wider floor. On the exterior, it has a narrow bumper, but the interior is exceptionally wide.

Toyota rewrites the rules for conceptualizing hybrid cars in its production of the Hybrid X. The company says Hybrid X might establish the norm in building hybrid cars in the future. A key concept on this vehicle is the Vibrant Clarity. It is a design establishing all design works in a unique and emotionally vibrant identity that definitely speaks of Toyota.

It offers sustainable mobility for modern families. Through this car, Toyota is making one step closer to its vision of a zero smog-forming emission future because of its environmentally advanced technology. Inside the car, the driver sets the mood using an internal interface that controls lighting, and music. Complete driver control is experienced through technological innovations in interactive navigation, driving information and comfort control.

Yeah, this is a smart car – The Mercedes Smart Car!

2008-04-05T14:38:00.000-07:00

Canadian auto buyers first had the chance to own a Smart car in 2004 when Mercedes-Benz decided to bring the small car to the Canadian auto market. Initially, Mercedes-Benz expected only to sell 600 Smart cars annually. The automaker though achieved much success with the Smart car in Canada. To further expand the presence of the Smart brand in the still growing Canadian auto market, Mercedes-Benz announced that they will offer a new Smart car for the 2008 model year.

The current Smart cars are popular among Canadian car buyers for their fuel efficiency. With the energy crisis being highlighted by environmentalists, Canadian consumers are slowly moving away from large vehicles. Although the current Smart car is a favorite for its fuel efficiency, there are still those who are not happy with the car's performance. The 2007 Smart car is equipped with a three-cylinder, 800 cc diesel engine which produces only 40 horsepower. The vehicle consumes only 3.8 liters for every 100 kilometers traveled.

Although Smart cars are gas misers, it is too slow for many. Consumer Reports tested the car and reported that the Smart car can reach speeds of 100 kilometers per hour from a standstill in 23 seconds. The car might not be designed to race around streets but consumers are still looking for better performance especially that it is made by Mercedes-Benz.

Thus, for the 2008 model year, Mercedes-Benz equipped Smart cars with a new power plant. The Smart cars which will arrive in Canada by November will have a one-liter gasoline engine which produces 71 horsepower and 68 lb-ft of torque. This will make the vehicle much faster than its predecessor. With the upgraded power plant, it can be expected that the new Smart car will have a faster acceleration compared to its predecessor. But it is interesting to see how Mercedes-Benz balanced performance and fuel efficiency. No figures from the automaker have yet been announced concerning the fuel efficiency of the new Smart car.

The success of the Smart car in Canada is seen as a key to the car being introduced in the United States. The Smart brand will make its debut in the United States auto market in spring next year. For Canadian auto buyers, the Smart car will be available in two variants - the base and the deluxe model. The sporty Pulse variant will be dropped for the 2008 model year.

It is expected that the new Smart car will be priced lower than the current generation Smart vehicles. This is due to the stronger Canadian dollar which had many automakers lowering the price of their offerings in the Canadian auto market.

The Jeep Huricane!

2008-04-04T13:36:00.000-07:00

The Jeep Hurricane is a concept vehicle unveiled by Daimler-Chrysler at the 2005 North American International Auto Show. It opened with and continues to receive rave reviews! So many in fact that it was rumored that Daimler-Chrysler was considering a limited production run of the vehicle. Those rumors have died down, but the Hurricane continues to draw the interest and attention of 4x4 aficionados, and hey, why not? This is indeed an astounding machine, though.

As Daimler-Chrysler has said: “Jeep Hurricane is simply the most maneuverable, most capable and most powerful 4x4 ever built," said Trevor Creed, Senior Vice President - Chrysler Group Design. "It pays homage to the extreme enthusiasts' Jeep vehicles in form and off-road capability, but is a unique interpretation of Jeep design. Simply stated, it is the extreme example for the Jeep brand."

Why build such a vehicle? The Hurricane broadly successfully and dramatically illustrates Daimler-Chrysler’s ingenuity, technical ability and wherewithal. Still, the Hurricane does have practical applications out in the real world. As a Daimler-Chrysler spokesman put it, "Out in the wilderness, changing direction in minimal space can mean the difference between an afternoon of adventure and a distress call back to the trailhead…..The multi-mode four-wheel steering system on Jeep Hurricane is designed to offer enthusiasts the next level of performance and unexpected maneuverability." It’s not hard to imagine that we’ll eventually see a military vehicle built off of this original design.

The Hurricane possesses an extremely powerful power system not just one but two 5.7-liter HEMI engines, one in the front and one at the back. Both engines deliver an impressive 335 horses for a total of 670 hp. The Hurricane set-up uses the Chrysler Group’s Multi-Displacement System which allows it to run on 4, 8, 12 or all 16 cylinders enabling it to adjust for speed, power and torque giving the driver ultimate power train control. The Hurricane is responsive and can go from 0 to 60 in less than five seconds! Wow!

The power is transferred through a central transfer case with split axles and has a mechanically controlled four-wheel torque distribution system. The suspensions, both front and rear, are short/long arm independent with 20 inches of travel, featuring coilover shocks with remote reservoirs.

One of the most impressive features of the Hurricane is its zero turning radius, which enables the vehicle to turn virtually in a circle in place! This is all thanks to a skid steer capability and toe steer, which is the ability to turn both front and rear tires inward. The Jeep concept vehicle has two types of 4-wheel steering: the traditional method with the rear tires turning opposite of the front wheels and an innovative one in which all four wheels turn in the same direction. This actually allows the Jeep Hurricane to move sideways without changing where it is pointing.

Topping off all of this is the Hurricane’s fantastic ground clearance of 14.3 inches and impressive approach-departure angles of 64.0 and 86.7 degrees. It really is a go anywhere do anything vehicle.

The Hurricane also features an innovative way to combine body, power-train and suspension. The suspension along with the power-train is mounted directly to the one-piece carbon fiber reinforced body, eliminating the weight and need for a frame. The vehicles belly is protected and connected by an aluminum spine, which acts as a huge skid plate mechanism. This is a lightweight and structurally strong set-up.

The general public wasn't the only ones who loved what they saw. The Jeep Hurricane won Autoweek’s “Most Fun” Concept award at the 2005 North American International Auto Show. As we noted earlier there were rumors that Daimler-Chrysler was toying with the idea of a limited production, but those rumors have died down amid the company’s statement that this was indeed a concept vehicle and that’s all (at least for now).

Advantages of an IQ Car

2008-04-03T16:34:00.000-07:00

Aside from the fact that owning an IQ car can save one from the increasing price or gasoline, minicars like the iQ Car, with better efficiency and less space, might offer a solution to the problems affecting both traffic and parking. As long as the number of cars on the road did not increase, the extra space could ease bumper-to-bumper traffic in congested areas.

Parking in a minicar is a whole different experience, too. For those who struggled through the parallel parking section of the driving test, parking in crowded downtown areas can be a nightmare. The idea of fitting a 15-foot long vehicle into a space that looks much smaller than 15 feet is enough to make you skip that spot close to the store and park farther away. The length of the iQ Car is only 10 feet, though, about the same as the width of a parallel parking spot on the side of the street. In theory, you could squeeze two or three iQs into one spot.

This new generation of smaller, ultracompact cars may simultaneously solve the messy problem of overcrowded parking lots, gridlocked highways and the dreaded blind spot. For lots more information on cars, traffic and related topics, see the links on the next page.

Concept of a Dream Car through IQ

2008-04-03T15:04:00.000-07:00

As metropolitan roads and highways become increasingly jam-packed with traffic because of the rapid increase of vehicles, one of the latest trends in auto making is the extreme downsizing of the car. In Europe, it is the Smart car that has done very well with its ultra small size, modern design and great gas mileage, while the MINI Cooper and other MINI models have re-emerged to immense popularity.

These vehicles have proven to be an advantage for people looking to save on gas, money and skip out on parallel parking. Hence, there's one obvious aspect that drivers are forced to sacrifice with an ultra compact car -- the availability of space. Some might be able to get by fine in a tiny car, but travelers or larger families might have trouble carrying bigger loads and luggage with just two seats and a very little trunk space.

Now, Toyota is attempting to deal with this predicament with its own take on the minicar, a four-seat passenger vehicle called the iQ Car. At just under 10 feet long and about 5-and-a-half feet wide, this iQ is an example of ground-breaking design and technology. From the seating arrangements down to the miniaturized front console controls, everything is taken into account. Although it is slightly bigger than Daimler-Chysler's Smart Car, it's still much smaller than the average 14- or 15- foot-long compact car. The iQ is also in clear rivalry with the Smart Car, as both names are obvious references to creativity.

Toyota expects that iQ will be ready for production in late 2008, but the company plans to make the car available to European drivers only because demand for smaller vehicles in Europe is still very high, and the quirky designs of minicars are fashionable. Based on reports, recent SUV sales in the United States have been declining due to higher gas prices, though, and environmentalists frown upon big gas-guzzlers like the Hummer. The Smart Car also goes on sale in the United States in early this year, so good minicar sales might give Toyota a reason to change its mind.

Experience the amphibian vehicle ride!

2008-04-02T13:04:00.000-07:00

Have you seen a car and a motor boat in one? Well, with Gibbs Technologies, it did become possible. Gibbs Technologies has developed High Speed Amphibian (HSA) technology that could definitely transform cars into amphibians. And to showcase this, Gibbs built the Aquada. It is an amphibian vehicle that debuted in late 2003 that could really meld our waterways and roadways into a single, unified transportation channel.

As you step over the side of the vehicle and into the cockpit, you’ll realize that the Aquada is a vehicle that doesn't fit neatly into any existing category. You step directly into it like a boat, but the driver sits behind a car-like steering wheel. Aquada was designed with three-seats to accommodate a driver, a water skier, and an observer.

"It’s quite uncanny because all the cues inside the vehicle say you are driving a car, but outside it's a boat," said Dr. Keith Alexander, a senior lecturer in mechanical engineering at Canterbury University, who acted as a consultant on the Aquada. "You are sitting there at the steering wheel, with your foot on the pedal but instead of the roadside going past, its water." Amazing isn’t it?

In developing the Aquada, Gibbs designers and engineers used the Seadoo watercraft as their comparator for water performance. It was actually intended as a leisure vehicle with agility on the water. On the road, it is expected to handle and perform like an average sports car.

Jenkins a Managing Director of Gibbs Designers said that, performance has not been compromised for either mode of travel and that, consumers will get equal performance on land and water. And to understand just how well it compares with its road and water counterparts, we need to look at the components of the Aquada.

Well, Aquada is powered by a 175-horsepower, V6, 2.5-liter, 24-valve engine. On land, this engine enables the Aquada to reach 100 miles per hour (161 kilometers per hour) and accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in less than 10 seconds. On the other hand the engine provides power to the amphibian's jet, which propels the vehicle through water.

With the unsuccessful attempts on other amphibian vehicles because of drag and inability to retract wheels, Gibbs has patented several technologies that allow it to retract its wheels like an airplane retracting its landing gear.

As the vehicle enters the water, the driver simply presses a button to trigger the vehicle's four-second transformation. The following are the actions involved in the conversion:

· The vehicle recognizes it's in the water.
· The vehicle recognizes it's in appropriate depth.
· The engine drive to the road wheels is cut.
· The wheels are retracted.
· Trim tabs are deployed to an optimized position.
· Road lights change to marine lights.

During the transformation, the driver should rev the engine to about 2,000 revolutions per minute (rpm) to provide sufficient thrust to the jet. At this point, the jet is already submerged and begins expelling water to push the Aquada.

Aquada was indeed an engineering achievement that was made possible by the work of several dozen engineers and designers over the course of seven years.

Unusual…

2008-04-02T12:16:00.000-07:00

I really like collecting and wearing unusual accessories and clothes. It is also one of my passions to browse on strange house designs…(lol) But of course even on autos, I am not contented with those elegantly designed machines and stuffs. I’d like to see something odd…really! Well, I was deeply astounded with what I’ve discovered. This is not actually new to some, I guess …. But you will not ever think that cars that exist on your imagination and can even be seen only in cartoons can now be driven. Well, with auto manufacturers’ creative thinking, varieties of unusual vehicles are now being introduced in the automobile world. Each of the designers and manufacturers of these unusual cars boast a magnificent engineering that will make your eye-balls pop out! (lol)… Examples of these are the jet trucks, Gibbs Aquada, IQ car, Jeep hurricane, King Midget, Bat Mobile, and many others. Well, just take a visit here on my blog from time to time and be amazed as I am in discovering the extraordinary uniqueness and rareness of some vehicles.

Safety talks

2008-03-29T15:34:00.000-07:00

Luxury vehicles VS Sports Utility Vehicles

Which is safer to drive a luxury vehicle or a Sports Utility Vehicle? Let’s consider first the Luxury vehicles.

There are a few reasons for luxury vehicles' excellent crash-test performance: construction, weight and features, though not necessarily in that order.

Construction: Luxury manufacturers have the freedom to build extra structural protection into their cars. For decades, Mercedes-Benz cars have been described as being "built like tanks." Like tanks, luxury cars are heavy and expensive to build. Automakers can justify both because they're able to charge more for these models and sell them to buyers who want power and don't care as much about fuel economy. Where an economy-car buyer would blanch at lower mileage figures, luxury buyers, as a class, look the other way.

Weight: Relative weight is not reflected in crash tests because the crashed car hits an immovable barrier. But in a real collision, all other factors being equal, mass is an advantage. As mentioned above, some luxury cars are heavier due to their construction, but even a luxury version of a more modest model is invariably heavier on average. For example, the Acura TL is based on the 2007 Honda Accord, but its lightest version weighs roughly 200 pounds more than the heaviest, V-6-equipped Accord. Some of the weight comes from the additional standard features. Quiet cabins also are valued in luxury vehicles, and noise control represents weight. Everything from thicker glass to metal coatings and thick, sand-filled firewalls silence noise while raising vehicle weight.

Features: Luxury vehicles are often the first to introduce new safety technology, they typically offer more safety features overall than do nonluxury vehicles, and they're usually the first to include these features as standard equipment. For example, GM introduced its StabiliTrak electronic stability system first in a Cadillac, and Audi was the first manufacturer to include a standard stability system in every one of its models.

Now, how about the Sports Utility Vehicles?

IIHS' lack of crash-test data on full-size SUVs complicates attempts to quantify luxury SUV safety versus that of nonluxury models. But based on the IIHS information we do have, luxury SUVs, on average, seem to post significantly better crash-test results than do nonluxury SUVs. This may be due as much to the vehicle types in the luxury category as to their feature set.

Six of the nine models tested by IIHS were built as luxury vehicles and currently have no more-affordable counterparts, so there was plenty of opportunity for the manufacturers to bulk them up with less concern about weight and fuel economy. Like the cars, luxury SUVs as a class are packed with the latest safety features, many of them standard.

You decide now!

The small are luxurious

2008-03-29T14:39:00.000-07:00

About a decade after Toyota's RAV4 sparked the compact-SUV revolution, automakers are planning a repeat performance — this time in the luxury field. Like the RAV4, compact luxury SUVs can negotiate alleyways that leave their larger siblings stuck. Unlike Toyota's original model, these SUVs offer effortless acceleration, business-class accommodations and loads of safety features.

Why the trend? Some experts say small SUVs offer shoppers a cheaper path into luxury brands, much like entry-level luxury sedans. Others argue that a compact SUV fits certain lifestyles that a luxury manufacturer's bigger SUVs cannot address. Above all, one thing is apparent: Shoppers are looking for upscale brands across a wider range of body styles, and with today's global sourcing and lower development costs, automakers are more than happy to oblige.

When BMW's X3 hit dealerships in early 2004, it shared the field with just Land Rover's Freelander, a car that even Land Rover admits was not a good fit for the U.S. market. Acura was next with the RDX, which came in mid-2006, followed by the Land Rover LR2. The Infiniti EX35 arrives in winter 2007.That's just the beginning.

"This segment has definitely attracted a lot of manufacturers," said Ryan Robinson, an automotive analyst at PricewaterhouseCoopers. "It sets up a very attractive business case for a lot of these manufacturers, particularly when you can pull something off a platform that's higher-volume."You can pull the cream of the crop off the top and produce a vehicle like this in lower volumes at relatively low overall development costs."That explains the slew of contenders that's expected to come, including the Cadillac BRX, Audi Q5, Saab 9-4X and a yet-unnamed model from Lexus. According to Automotive News, the BRX and 9-4X could share the same platform and use pieces from GM's next generation of compact crossovers — popular sellers like the Chevrolet Equinox and Saturn Vue. The upcoming Lexus will likely share underpinnings with parent company Toyota's RAV4, Robinson said.

Wedding cars…

2008-03-28T16:04:00.000-07:00

Are you planning to marry soon..? And you’re quite in a hurry to prepare all the stuffs for your wedding? Well, just don’t forget about your wedding car. Actually, any car can be used as your wedding but using a classic car during a wedding ceremony can be a great experience. There is plenty of wedding car providers that offer beautiful cars. Using thee cars in marriages can also be a prestigious issue. Limousines are highly in demand for wedding purposes; these cars can carry many people at a time.There are different types of cars that are generally offered for wedding purposes, few of the popular types are as mentioned below:

? Vintage wedding cars
? Classic wedding cars
? Luxury modern wedding cars
? Executive cars

Besides hiring wedding cars, it is also necessary to put emphasis on the decoration. The two popular types of wedding car decorations are as mentioned below:

? The ribbon
? The tullie

The wedding day remain everlasting for the brides and the grooms and for their pleasure, it is best to decorate the hired car for wedding purposes beautifully. Some of the ideal cars for hire for wedding purposes are as follows:

? Muliner Bentley
? S Type Bentley
? Convertible Bentley
? Daimler Limousine
? XJR Jaguar
? Rolls Royce silver cloud

Often in many weddings, while managing a wide arrays of things the wedding car is ignored. Planning for a proper wedding car is indeed essential as the bride and the groom both start their married life with the memories of this particular day. Beginning of the gateway to the honeymoon with a gorgeous wedding car can be of a nice experience. So, better choose the best wedding car that will make your first ride as a couple a perfect one!

The 3-wheeled Car!

2008-03-28T09:40:00.000-07:00

Can you imagine a car with three wheels? Well, if yes, it cannot be only confined on your imagination for there is indeed a car that is three-wheeled known as the Aptera. Aptera is a three-wheel, two-passenger prototype that aims for an astounding 330 miles per gallon. AC was founded in 2006 by Steve Fambro and Chris Anthony, two independent entrepreneurs with experience in everything from composites and biotechnology to aerodynamics and finance.

This concept was actually realized because of the threats of global warming. As concerns continue to grow over the possible consequences of global warming, nations and governments are beginning to react. The European Union continues to revise its strict emission standards, and ultra compact cars like the Smart Car, the MINI Cooper and the IQ Car catch lots of attention for their space- and energy-saving qualities. In the U.S., meanwhile, President George W. Bush signed an energy bill on Dec. 19, 2007, that encourages automakers to produce more fuel-efficient vehicles and increase the industry average to at least 35 miles per gallon by 2020.

While these are small steps toward a respectable goal, Accelerated Composites (AC), a private company of only 15 employees based in San Diego, Calif., may be taking a big leap with the Aptera, a three-wheel, two-passenger prototype that aims for an astounding 330 miles per gallon. AC was founded in 2006 by Steve Fambro and Chris Anthony, two independent entrepreneurs with experience in everything from composites and biotechnology to aerodynamics and finance.

The initial prototype of the Aptera achieved 230 mpg, a number that is 195 mpg over the projected standard outlined in President Bush's recent energy bill. As of now, the developers still have more time to work out the kinks and improve its efficiency -- AC expects the Aptera to be ready for Californians in late 2008.

Fuel Cells???

2008-03-27T14:14:00.000-07:00

Do you have any idea about fuel cells? Well, after my previous posts about electric cars biodiesel, and other forms of fuel alternatives, this one is likewise considered a good fuel alternative.

Probably, this is not new to some for this was very well introduced when President Bush announced the Hydrogen Fuel Initiative Program on his state of the Union Address last 2003. This was supported by a legislation known as the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (EPACT 2005) and the Advanced Energy Initiative of 2006, that aims to develop hydrogen, fuel cell and infrastructure technologies to make fuel-cell vehicles practical and cost-effective by 2020.

But what is really Fuel cell? What makes the government, business sectors, and even private and academic institutions get so interested with this? Well, unlike power sources that use fossil fuels, the by-products from an operating fuel cell are heat and water. It generates electrical power quietly and efficiently without pollution.

Technically speaking, fuel cell is an electrochemical energy conversion device. It converts the chemicals hydrogen and oxygen into water, and in the process it produces electricity. There are actually several types of fuel cells depending on application like Polymer exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC), Solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC), Alkaline fuel cell (AFC), Molten-carbonate fuel cell (MCFC), Phosphoric-acid fuel cell (PAFC), and the Direct-methanol fuel cell (DMFC). The Combustion engines like the turbine and the gasoline engine burn fuels and use the pressure created by the expansion of the gases to do mechanical work. Batteries convert chemical energy back into electrical energy when needed. Fuel cells should do both tasks more efficiently.

A fuel cell provides a DC (direct current) voltage that can be used to powermotors, lights or any number of electrical appliances. Some types of fuel cells work well for use in stationary power generation plants. Others may be useful for small portable applications or for powering cars.

BIODIESEL – it’s Pros and Cons

2008-03-27T13:29:00.000-07:00

It cannot be denied that fuel is one of the basic commodities that consumers rely on daily. In fact this is the most discussed and controversial topic nowadays. Because of this, it all raised up to talks about gasoline alternatives like the electric cars, hydrogen combustion engines, and fuel cells. And now, one of the most famous fuel alternatives is the biodiesel.

Biodiesel is basically an alternative fuel or an additive to standard diesel fuel that is derived from biological ingredients instead of petroleum or crude oil. This is usually out of plant oils or animal fats that undergo series of chemical reactions. This is both non-toxic and renewable. And since biodiesel is produced through plants and animals, these sources can be replenished by way of farming and recycling.

With just a little or no modification needed, biodiesel is safe to be used on diesel engines. Although this can be used on its pure form, hence this is usually blended with a standard diesel fuel. The blend is usually indicated with the “Bxx”, where “xx” stands as the percentage of biodiesel on the mixture.

The advantages of using Biodiesel are the following:

· Biodiesel is environmentally friendly.
· It can help reduce dependency on foreign oil.
· It helps to lubricate the engine itself, decreasing engine wear.
· It can be used in almost any diesel with little or no engine modification.
· It is safer than conventional diesel.

One of the major reasons why biodiesel is patronized it is because of its being environmental friendliness. It has fewer emissions compared to the standard diesel, it is biodegradable, and is likewise a renewable source of energy.

With the advantages of using biodiesel, there are also its corresponding disadvantages or drawbacks.

One of the problems with the fuel itself is the increase in NOx in biodiesel emissions. Often, in diesel fuel manufacturing, when you decrease the amount of particulate matter in the emissions, there is a corresponding increase in nitrogen oxides, which contribute to smog formation. Though some of this can be addressed by adjusting the engine itself, that's not always feasible. There are technologies being researched to reduce NOx amounts in biodiesel emissions.

Another problem is biodiesel's behavior as a solvent. Though this property is helpful, it's kind of a double-edged sword. Some older diesel vehicles (such as cars made before 1992) may experience clogging with higher concentrations of biodiesel. Because of its ability to loosen deposits built up in the engine (which may be there from old diesel fuel), biodiesel can cause the fuel filter to become jammed with the newly freed deposits. That’s why, biodiesel manufacturers suggest changing the fuel pump shortly after switching to high-concentration biodiesel blends.
Also, in some engines, there can be slight decrease in fuel economy and power. On average, there is about a 10% reduction in power. In other words, it takes about 1.1 gallons of biodiesel to equal 1 gallon of standard diesel.
So, knowing the advantages as well as the disadvantages of using biodiesel, it is now your choice whether to shift to biodiesel or not. But if you really want to save money and at the same time help in addressing some of the environmental concerns, it would be better to use biodiesel instead of the standard diesel.

BWW H2R

2008-03-26T13:08:00.000-07:00

Have you heard of BMW H2R? Well, it is a sleek, aerodynamic, and an eco- friendly car. This vehicle is powered entirely by clean – burning process of liquid hydrogen combustion.

Maybe you’re thinking on how the BMW Company has come up with this kind of vehicle… Well, according to them, one of their long term objective is to replace or to look for an alternative over cars that run on atmosphere-polluting fossil fuels with one that utilizes clean- burning, liquid hydrogen fuel. With this BMW H2R, you’ll surely learn its uniqueness by way of its hydrogen combustion engine.

By way of examining it on its outside view, you can say that you are now in full view of what you have just previously seen cars on the pages of science fiction novels. With the BMW H3R’s smooth lines, aerodynamic design and glimmering silver body, it appears to be a sports car, a sleek zeppelin and a futuristic rocket ship all in one.

And for its high speed, and maximum stability even under extreme driving conditions, BMW H3R has been designed with a lightweight aluminum chassis, a monocoque aluminum space frame and an outer skin that is composed of carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic. In ensuring a good road contact, it is equipped with tires that measures 245/40/19.

When it comes on its suspension system, it comprises a double-wishbone, spring-strut front axle, rack-and-pinion steering, forged-aluminum track control arms (with two ball joints for superior wheel guidance and directional stability), a tie bar and an anti roll bar. This ensures a stable skeleton that will result for a smooth and vibration-less driving experience.

The H2R's race-car-like appearance and high-speed performance belie its extreme environmental friendliness. Can you imagine that this was only conceived and developed within 10 months? Yeah, BMW H3R has been developed only in 10 months, and yet it is indeed remarkable as it features a 6.0 liter, V – 12 hydrogen – powered engine. Whereas other carmakers have gone the route of hydrogen fuel cells, BMW has opted for a more traditional-style engine that utilizes a nontraditional fuel. The hydrogen combustion engine operates on the same principle as other internal combustion engines except that liquid hydrogen is used as the fuel source rather than gasoline or diesel oil.

So aside from the fact that this is an eco-friendly car, this is also a good investment particularly if you want to save your pocket from the increasing price of fuel.

Electric Cars

2008-03-26T10:38:00.000-07:00

It is quite obvious that everybody have heard about electric cars, right? Electric cars have been one of the frequent topics in most of the auto shows and news. Actually, there are several reasons for the continuing interest of on these kind of vehicles. Here it goes…..

· Electric cars create less pollution than gasoline-powered cars, so they are an environmentally friendly alternative to gasoline-powered vehicles (especially in cities).
· Any news story about hybrid cars usually talks about electric cars as well.
· Vehicles powered by fuel cells are electric cars, and fuel cells are getting a lot of attention right now in the news.

Electric car is being powered by an electric motor instead of a gasoline engine. If you will just focus on the car’s exterior, you would probably have no idea if it is an electric car since it appears similarly as a gasoline engine type. You will feel the difference of it upon driving. If you drive an electric car, you’ll notice its silence for the true nature of an electric car is that it is nearly silent.
If we’ll talk about under the hood, there are a lot of differences between gasoline and electric cars:

· The gasoline engine is replaced by an electric motor.
· The electric motor obtains its power from a controller.
· The controller gets its power from an array of rechargeable batteries.

And a gasoline engine, with its fuel lines, exhaust pipes, coolant hoses and intake manifold, tends to look like a plumbing project. While an electric car is definitely a wiring project.

Fuel alternatives

2008-03-26T08:25:00.000-07:00

Everybody is indeed alarmed with the fast rise of fuel prices nowadays. To at lessen the vehicle owners’ dilemma in lieu of this, auto manufacturers have thought of producing alternatives for fuel. There are now cars that are operated through biodiesel, natural gas, fuel cells, and electricity. Moreover, certain vehicle manufacturing companies have released extra ordinary vehicle models that are known to be computerized and eco-friendly cars that don’t depend much on fuel like hybrid cars.

So watch out for my next posts as I will discuss about these mentioned fuel alternatives and fuel efficient cars that will surely entice you.

Have your car Washed!

2008-03-25T15:33:00.000-07:00

Are you not intrigued on how fast a car can regain its sleekness in just a short time of washing after driving through muddy terrains? Well, car washing has now been made easy with the automated car wash. Aside from the easy way of washing the car, this is also known to be of low cost. And for every customer’s choice, car washes fall into five categories. These are the self-service, exterior rollover, exterior only, full service, and detail shop.

Self service – In this system, an open bay (the area that the car sits inside) is typically used. Self-service systems have a pressure sprayer, and sometimes a foaming brush, that is linked to a large central pump. The sprayer has a coin-operated dial system to select the option you want, such as soap, rinse and wax. A timer shuts the water off after a certain period of time, at which point you must put in more coins if you want more water.

Exterior rollover – This system has been growing in popularity. Exterior rollover car washes are automated systems where you drive your car inside the bay. Once your car is in the correct position, a signal will inform you to stop. At that point, the car-wash equipment moves over your car on a track, performing a specific function, such as applying soap or rinsing, with each pass. Exterior rollover systems are very common at gas stations, where the price is often discounted in conjunction with buying a tank of gas.

Exterior only - This automated system is popular in the northeastern part of the United States, hence it can be found all over the world. You have to drive your car into the entrance of a long, tunnel-like bay. The front tire, usually on the driver's side, is positioned on a special conveyor belt, and you have to put the car in neutral. The conveyor belt guides the car through the bay, where the car goes past several pieces of equipment, each with a specific purpose.

Full service – This is a modification of the exterior-only system, full service uses the same conveyor-belt-based automated system. The difference is that the interior is manually cleaned by attendants, and some exterior services, such as hand-drying and wheel-cleaning, are available.

Detail shop – This may use a hand wash or an automated system to wash the car. Then, attendants completely clean and polish the car, normally applying wax and using a tool called a buffer to remove the wax and polish the car. Detail shops are often able to remove dull paint and small scratches, steam clean carpets and seats, brighten chrome, remove tar and perform a variety of other services.

So if you think that your car is somewhat muddled and a good wash is needed, you can opt for any of the mentioned car wash systems. You’ll definitely not be sweating for all you have to do is to seat back and relax. But you must ensure that your car’s windows are closed and the antenna is down.

Top 5 Ugliest cars of all time

2008-03-25T10:12:00.000-07:00

It cannot be denied that car manufacturers spend millions and even billions just for the sake of creating, developing, testing and producing new cars. However, looking much on the performance maybe of the vehicle without giving much attention on its exterior, there were many designs that weren’t that great when it comes to the car’s look. So, as I have already featured exotic cars fastest cars, I just thought of that thought that it is not that bad to discuss and show some or the top 5 top ugliest cars of all time… right? Well, you can just post your comments or reactions either to agree or disagree with me.

So, here they go…

No.1 is the 1961 - 1978 Citroen Ami
Sister to the smaller 2CV, this machine didn’t inherit the cute looks of its sibling. Instead, its front end looked as if it had been biffed squarely on the nose. (lol)

No.2 is the 1970 - 1971 Marcos Mantis
As you look at its side profile, it was more up and down than a ride at Alton Towers. The Mantis, with its drooping snout, is indeed a head-turner but for all the wrong reasons.

No.3 is the 1972 Volvo VESC concept
Volvo was determined people wouldn’t be seen dead in its cars. Thus, it produced this hideous VESC Concept that features safety bumpers, airbags and a roll cage.

No.4 is the 1975 - 1980 AMC Pacer
It may have gained cult status from appearing in Wayne’s World, but the Pacer was nevertheless pig ugly and far too thirsty for its economy car brief.

No.5 is the 1978 - 1981 Midas Coupé
The Midas touch was definitely lacking when its shape was penne. However, despite of that, this car was loved by Gordon Murray, designer of the McLaren F1 supercar.

Be fascinated with Honda Fit!

2008-03-17T15:59:00.000-07:00

I am not fascinated much with Honda vehicles. Hence, with the Honda Company’s launch of a new entry-level car which is the Honda Fit, my attention was get caught by it.

Honda Fit is a subcompact five-door hatchback sedan. This was characteristically designed to look small on the outside, but big on the inside. With its roomy interior, it is a five-passenger-capable that is also likely to carry objects as large and unwieldy as a standard-sized bicycle.

Lets go with the auto parts, it has a 1.5-liter, four-cylinder VTEC engine which can develop 109 horsepower, with either a standard five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission driving the front wheels. As a high-efficiency car, it is capable of returning 34 mpg along the highway and 28 mpg on city driving. This is based on the EPA’s new fuel economy test.

And just like highly technological cars, Honda Fit comes with standard side curtain air bags, front-seat side-impact air bags, anti lock brakes, air conditioning, power windows, mirrors, door locks, and AM/FM stereo matched with single-disc CD player as well.

Every sport model of Honda Fit comes with a 15-inch wheels, leather-wrapped steering wheels with paddle shifter controls (automatic-equipped models), rear spoiler, body kit, cruise control, and 200-watt audio system with six speakers, MP3/WMA playback and auxiliary iPod input jack.

Even if you are not a fan of Honda vehicles as well just like me. It is still good to recognize such a sporty and great machine as what a Honda Fit is.

The wonder of TOYOTA PRIUS HYBRID CAR

2008-03-17T14:17:00.000-07:00

Are you looking for a machine which can provide a bold statement on the road but at the same time solve your problems about the rising gas prices? Well, free your self from worry for you can have the Toyota Prius Hybrid Car. This is indeed the answer for your want since this can absolutely make a bold statement on the road and even against environmental issues and the sky rocketing prices on gas. Moreover, this is also considered as the first ever hybrid car which is a mass-produced for commercial function.

The awards that this Toyota Prius Hybrid Car will speak for itself; Motor Trends Cars and North American Car recognized this as the best car in 2004 and an international engine of the year. Likewise, it was held as the 2005 European car of the year and got the 2006 Energuide Award in Midsize segment. Because of these and other accolades awarded to Toyota Prius Hybrid Car, it is not a surprise for it to be regarded as one of the best competitor in the fast-growing hybrid segment of cars.

This car was first sold in Japan on 1997 and was distributed all over the world on 2001. And for about five years, Toyota Prius has gained the strongest demand and has the longest preorder and waiting list up to this very moment. Amazing isn’t it?

With the overwhelming response of the vehicle enthusiasts for this great machine that the Toyota Company has manufactured, they are ensuring in return that this car is indeed energy efficient and yet produce less emission.

And not so long after the Toyota Prius Hybrid Car’s first release, second generation of it has been introduced capitalizing a Synbergy Drive technology. Different improvements has been developed and infused making it even better than before. Aside from its powerful engine, its has been developed wider and taller to be able to accommodate taller passengers to sit erect inside while enjoying the views outside.

Truly, Toyota Prius Hybrid Car is a good machine to invest at. Aside from the prestige, and comfort that it can provide, you can also be a part of the environmental awareness in saving our mother earth.

Work of art – Funny truck advertisements!

2008-03-14T10:28:00.000-07:00

As I opened my mail yesterday I’ve received a very interesting and breath taking mail from Fun and Fun Only. This contains pictures of (European) semi-trucks whose trailers are amazingly decorated to look like the sides are missing and the products which they are hauling are painted on the sides and back.

This first picture below is a bottle of beer that looks so real, as if it is coming out of the side of the trailer.

The second one is a canvass tote bag… (lol)

The third is of Pepsi cases which are all stocked on the ceiling, as the bottom of the trailer is empty.

The fourth is another truck wherein the windshield is painted facing the back, where the driver on the driver’s seat is looking back over his shoulder appearing as if he is really maneuvering the truck backwards.

The fifth looks like an aquarium with fish swimming in it.

The sixth is like a bookshelf with books up in it that has a post-it-note with an advertisement on it. Probably, it is the name of the company that sells the book.

The last one is an advertisement of a Pringles-Hot & Spicy. The “inside of the trailer has the appearance of having been through a fire.

I really appreciate these works of art. Whoever the Artist behind this, I totally salute you!

Stop complaining...Just read and follow!

2008-03-13T09:54:00.000-07:00

Nowadays, prices of commodities are slowly increasing. Be it personal stuffs, house needs, and school supplies… you can never have them on cheaper price. And if you own a car, maintenance is indeed very costly. Aside from the repairs and replacement, it is inevitable to go for add-ons and accessories. And of course, your car will not operate without gas or fuel. But don’t you know that despite of the sky rocketing prices of every commodity, there are still ways on how to save your hard-earned money? Yeah…just like having a car with you, you can follow the following steps in order to save from gasoline and cost you less for it.

Listed below are tips on how you can save your money on gasoline.

1. Keep your car tuned up. Cars in poor running condition use more gasoline.
2. Plan trips well to avoid unnecessary driving.
3. When you run your air conditioner you get much worse gas mileage. Use your air conditioner sparingly. If you have a lower setting, use it. Turn it on until the car gets cool, then turn it off and let the fan circulate the cool air. Never run your air conditioner with your windows open!
4. Keep your windows closed when traveling at high speeds. Open windows cause additional drag and lower your gas mileage. At high speeds, an open window can use more gas than many air conditioners (especially if they are on a low setting).
5. Check you tire pressure. Over-inflated tires can actually reduce your fuel efficiency, so don't overfill.
6. If at all possible, change your work start time to avoid gridlock. Stop and go traffic hurts your gas mileage.
7. Take unneeded items out of the car. You don't need to carry snow chains around with you in the summertime. Just make sure to put them back in when winter comes around.
8. Try not to idle your engine for long periods of time. If you are stuck in traffic and you don't think you are going to go anywhere in the next five minutes, you may want to turn your car off.
9. You no longer need to warm your car up for long periods of time, especially new cars. New cars are made to run when cold.
10. Don't travel at fast speeds in low gears unless you need the compression to slow down.
11. Try to drive the speed limit.
12. Try to accelerate slowly when leaving the stop light. It's not a competition with the driver in the lane next to you. The fastest person through the intersection just gets to spend more on gas.
13. No need to buy the highest priced gasoline. Most cars are built to run on regular unleaded. Check you owners manual or consult a mechanic. I have had many tell me that the more expensive gas is a waste of money.
14. Revving the engine needlessly wastes gas. There is no need to rev before you turn your vehicle off.
15. If at all possible, try to arrange car pools with co-workers to share the cost of commuting to work.
16. Walk, bike or run to your intended location whenever possible.
17. When the price is sky high, don't fill up. Wait for the price to go down before you fill up your tank. Filling up your tank when the price is peaking lets gas companies know that you are willing to pay ridiculous prices for gasoline.
18. And last, the biggest and most important step towards saving money on gas is always try to purchase vehicles that get good gas mileage. The difference between 20 miles-per-gallon and 40 miles-per-gallon is huge.

Well, it’s not your loss if you will consider those; rather it can surely be a gain on your part. I’ve already relayed it to my father… and he said that the tips are indeed effective! So, stop complaining…just read and follow!

Source: http://www.2sportscars.com/savegas.shtml

World's First and Fastest Biodiesel Jet Funny Car

2008-03-12T13:37:00.000-07:00

Since I was just a kid I am deeply amazed why jet planes leave sort of a smoke line on the sky. I thought these aircrafts are actually designed to give some message by sketching and leaving some graphical lines up in the sky. (lol) … And it is indeed much astounding to know that nowadays, it is not only jet planes that leave cloud of smoke as it is maneuvered but car as well has been invented. Well, a “007”, 2007 Corvette jet car is now piloted down the drag strip. It was indeed to my surprise witnessing a car speedily maneuvered on the track as the flames reach back and scorch everything.

But what is more stunning about this machine is that it runs on a biodiesel. Can you imagine that biodiesel is a fuel produced from the seeds of yellow flowers that once beautifully blossomed on a farmer’s canola field? Well, this is said to be the fuel of the future… so better believe that.

Shown below is the fastest jet car in the world that runs on biodiesel which was produced in Saskatchewan Canada.

This car is a 2007 Chevrolet Corvette with J60 Pratt and Whitney jet engine that is being run on a biodiesel. It throws massive flames, do some impressive pops, and create cloud of smoke that will definitely loose the car itself.

So, better watch out for this car on different car shows, drug awareness presentations, and drag races to be able to see for yourself of how it indeed amazed me as you’ll surely enjoy every minute of it.

Attention Please!

2008-03-12T08:44:00.000-07:00

As you drive a Subaru Forester, Narcolepsy is definitely not an option!
People who are narcoleptics suddenly fall asleep without any warning, anytime, and anywhere even behind the wheel of a moving vehicle. But with Subaru Forester, the odds of a snoozer screeching way to the next life is increased tenfold. Well, this is because of the high-end automotive technology on which the Subaru men have provided with the Subaru Forester all-wheel drive sport known as the “cruise control”.

Cruise control enables a driver to maintain speed even as you let go of the gas pedal, thus allows him to do a lot of other things apart from driving like cruising and enjoying the sights, crossing the legs, sitting on a lotus position, smelling the foot, tickling your girlfriend with your foot, and then go back to the normal driving hitting the brakes.

It is behind the Forester’s steering wheel where the cruise control stick with couple of buttons bunched at a tip can be located.

As my friend asked me for a ride on his Subaru Forester, he just clicked on the cruise control and drive like a lazy tourist.

Subaru Forester as an SUV, the ride which I had experienced was astonishingly soft and smooth. But then again, because of the smoothness, I am expecting for a ride with a get-go attitude to be a bit of a brute, but what the Forester exhibited was a very car-like behavior. So, we lounge as he speeds up along, braking once in a while as there was a shuttle bus beside us which suddenly make it through in front of us that looks like wanting to go behind us.

Had my friend gotten his hands though, on top-of-the line turbocharged model, he would have forgotten that there ever was a cruise control and floored it and gave the bus driver a finger. (lol)

When it comes to aesthetics, as you take a closer look into the Forester, you’ll notice that it is quite lower than most SUVs. You’re supposed to be balanced this way, with low center of gravity. But it confuses me though whether a Forester is an undressed SUV or an oversized car.

And as I glanced over the dash, I’m quite confused of what to make of the silver trimmings on it. If its purpose was to accent the blacks, I just thought of why it was not leaved all in black. (lol…just a thought)

Thus, along the middle of the dash, there was a thing that opens up to something. I thought it was a navigational tool or a seat injector, but to my surprise, it was just a pocket! (lol again…hehehe)

Well, going back to a narcoleptic people, narcoleptics are said to experience scary hallucinations when they fall into deep sleep. So, when they dream of cars, they must dream of gold as well! (lol)

How exotic are they???

2008-03-11T15:45:00.000-07:00

With number of modern cars that are being introduced in the market nowadays, still, nothing can beat the features of what some of the considered exotic cars possess. Commencing from different vehicle marquees, these exotic cars are deemed to be of great investment. Aside from the performance that it boasts the aesthetic appeal is indeed tremendous. During my ride going to the office, different cars are speeding along the highway, thus some of these caught my attention. Little did I know that those vehicles which I admire belong to the exotic line of cars. To name a few these are the Bentley GT, Ferrari F430, Porsche 911 GT2, Ferrari Enzo, Lamborghini Murcielago, and the Porsche Cabrera DT.

Browsing through the net, I cross upon the description and features of each of these vehicles on one particular site. This information can indeed be of great help if you are planning to have any of the featured exotic cars.

BENTLEY GT

Performance claims predict the Bentley Continental GT coupe will accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in less than 5 seconds and reach a maximum speed of more than 180 mph. Power will be fed through a new, paddle-operated 6-speed automatic gearbox and will be delivered to the road via all-wheel drive--a first in Bentley's history. The company says all-wheel drive was considered essential not only for safety but to enhance the car's everyday usability everywhere from metropolitan highways to ski resorts all over the world. Electronic Stability Control is also included. Suspension is made up of a multilink rear axle with double wishbones in the front and the latest in electronic damping control.

Bentley GT Specifications:
Make and Model:
Bentley GT Coupe
Year:
2003
Engine Type:
6 liter Twin-Turbo W12
Torque:
675lb-ft@6500rpm
Acceleration 0-60:
4.6 s
Suspension:
Double Wishbones w/Air Springs
Wheel Base:
inches
List Price:
$145,000
Horsepower:
550bhp@6000rpm
Top Speed:
200 mph
Brakes:
4-wheel vent. disc
Transmission:
6-Speed Automatic
Weight:
5257 lbs

FERRARI F430

The Ferrari F430 replaced the 360 Modena in 2004. It was first revealed at the 2004 Paris Motor Show. Although it does share many common characteristics as the 360, there are still many differences. It has a bigger engine, more power, and a higher top speed. It also has very advanced traction control settings, including launch control. The car is available as the coupe (Berlinetta) or convertible (Spider)

Ferrari F430 Specifications:
Make and Model:
Ferrari F430
Year:
2004
Engine Type:
4.3 Liter V-8
Torque:
470lb-ft@6250rpm
Acceleration 0-60:
3.9 s
Suspension:
Coil Springs
Wheel Base:
102 inches
List Price:
$170,000
Horsepower:
483@8500bhp@rpm
Top Speed:
198 mph
Brakes:
Carbon-Ceramic Discs
Transmission:
6 Speed Manual or F1 Paddle Shift
Weight:
3197 lbs

PORSCHE 911 GT2

The Porsche 911 GT2 is the ultimate Porsche model for 2002. It is 10% more powerful and 7% lighter than the Porsche 911 on which it is based. The biggest weight savings over the 911 Turbo comes from making the Porsche 911 GT2 rear wheel drive(the 911 is all wheel drive.) Other weight-saving measures include fitting sport seats in front and deleting the rear seats. In place of a spare tire, there is a tire repair kit. The Porsche 911 GT2 can accelerate from 0-62mph in about 4 seconds, and can achieve a top track speed of 196mph.

Porsche 911 GT2 Specifications:
Make and Model:
Porsche 911 GT2
Year:
2002
Engine Type:
Twin Turbo 6-cylinder
Torque:
456lb-ft@3500rpm
Acceleration 0-60:
4.0 s
Suspension:
Four wheel independant
Wheel Base:
92.7 inches
List Price:
$181,700
Horsepower:
462bhp@5700rpm
Top Speed:
196 mph
Brakes:
ceramic composite
Transmission:
6-speed Manual
Weight:
3175 lbs

FERRARI ENZO

Company founder Enzo Ferrari himself, always felt that design of the road cars should stem from the racers. Therefore, it was entirely logical that the company's latest creation should bear his name.The Ferrari Enzo, built in a limited run of 399, is an outstanding expression of the concept of extreme sportiness, developed for road use, yet epitomising the most advanced concepts of Formula 1 racing technology. Ferrari set out to develop the Ferrari Enzo as an integrated system designed for extreme performance, in which even the limits of the performance achievable by the driver were enhanced, thanks to a man-machine interface typical of Formula 1.

Ferrari Enzo Specifications:
Make and Model:
Ferrari Enzo
Year:
2002
Engine Type:
6-liter V-12
Torque:
485lb-ft@5500rpm
Acceleration 0-60:
3.6 s
Suspension:
4-wheel independant
Wheel Base:
104.33 inches
List Price:
$652,000
Horsepower:
660bhp@7800rpm
Top Speed:
217 mph
Brakes:
Brembo 4-wheel vent. disc
Transmission:
6-speed Electrohydraulic
Weight:
3009 lbs

LAMBORGHINI MURCIELAGO

Visually an obvious descendant of the Diablo, the Lamborghini Murcielago is nevertheless a much smoother design concept. The lines are cleaner, with a self-assurance that requires no lairy wings, overly acute angles or messy surfaces. The theme continues inside the cockpit which is strikingly austere. The bragging is saved for the engine bay behind your head in which lurks a jaw-dropping 6.2-litre V12 engine capable of producing 580 bhp (a rise of nearly 30 bhp on the Diablo). All that energy drives a sophisticated four-wheel-drive system which, via the all-new six-speed transmission, uses both a viscous coupling and electronic traction-control system to distribute power evenly to all four wheels.

Lamborghini Murcielago Specifications:
Make and Model:
Lamborghini Murcielago
Year:
2002
Engine Type:
6.2-liter V-12
Torque:
478lb-ft@4900rpm
Acceleration 0-60:
3.7 s
Suspension:
Double Wishbone
Wheel Base:
104.9 inches
List Price:
$290,000
Horsepower:
580bhp@7600rpm
Top Speed:
205+ mph
Brakes:
4-wheel vent. disc w/ ABS
Transmission:
6-speed Manual
Weight:
3637 lbs

PORSCHE CARRERA GT

Porsche recently announced plans to produce approximately 1,000 Porsche Carrera GTs to be introduced in the second half of 2003. The Porsche Carrera GT is a high performance road car, which defines the limits of sports car engineering; as light and as powerful as possible. The cars will be built at the company's new production facility in Leipzig, German, next the all new Cayenne. With an estimated 555+bhp and a top speed of over 200mph, the Carrera GT gives Porsche an extremely competitive edge in the exotic car market.

Porsche Carrera GT Specifications:
Make and Model:
Porsche Carrera GT
Year:
1907
Engine Type:
6-litre V10
Torque:
330lb-ftlb-ft@rpm
Acceleration 0-60:
under 4 s
Suspension:
Double Wishbone
Wheel Base:
106.3 inches
List Price:
$350,000
Horsepower:
558bhp@8200rpm
Top Speed:
205+ mph
Brakes:
Monobloc fixed calipers
Transmission:
6-speed Manual
Weight:
2755 lbs

source: Featured Exotic Cars

The 2008 Dodge Viper Convertible!

2008-03-08T16:10:00.000-08:00

Do you want to feel the breeze stroking your hair while driving? Well, the 2008 Dodge Viper Convertible can be a perfect investment for you. This excellent ma-made machine is considered to be one of the Top 10 Convertibles that the automobile industry has. With its exterior, interior and performance features, it can really speak for itself.

On its exterior overview, 2008 Dodge Viper Convertible exudes swept-back fenders and deep-cut side scallops, endowing it with a serpentine styling that is ensured not to compromise the comfort. An all-new hood, with a larger cooling intake and screened louvers, are known to improve its hot-air extraction which enhances its performance. When it comes to its interior, Viper was characteristically designed for optimum control. With a maximized dash space, leather-trimmed front bucket seats and a cockpit, pilot would certainly be jealous because of a race-inspired feel. Thus, it also provides four more useable cubic feet of trunk space for perfect storage. And for its performance overview, you should be always prepared for takeoff for it has a six hundred horsepower; 560lb-ft of torque. Its 8.4-liter V10 engine with new intake and exhaust manifolds, 0 to 60 mph can surely be delivered in less than four seconds.

Indeed, the 2008 Dodge Viper Convertible is an excellent machine to consider. If I am just a millionaire, I will gladly include this in my car collection!

Car Facts

2008-03-08T11:26:00.000-08:00

If you think that you are a car genius, well, better think twice. Who knows, there could be number of facts yet for you to know. Thus, to provide you with some mind shattering facts about cars, here it goes…

1. Top fuel dragsters accelerate at up to 5g from standing start. The nitromethane injection produces 6000 BHP.

2. The fastest time for removing a car engine, and replacing it is 42 seconds for a Ford Escort, on 21 November 1985.

3. An airbag moves up to 4500 mph within a second when triggered. A force of 200g is generated. They are designed to explode at an impact speed of 19 mph. The bag inflates within 40 milliseconds of a crash.

4. The Ferrari Formula 1 team is unique in the fact that it produces both chassis and engines for its cars.

5. Ferrari makes a maximum of 14 cars every day.

6. There were only 107 models of the Ford GT40 made of which only 7 were road cars.

7. The Worlds longest traffic hold-up was 110 miles long, between Paris and Lyon on the French Autoroute in 1980. A more recent contender for the title was a 100 mile long traffic Jam, near Hamburg in Germany in 1993.

8. The first known automobile was built in 1668, it was a two foot long steam powered model constructed by Ferdinand Verbiest, a Belgian Jesuit preist.

9. Luxembourg has the most crowded roads in Europe with 570 cars per 1,000 people.

10. The first car race ever seen in the United States was held in Chicago in 1895. The track ran from Chicago to Evanston. The winner was J. Frank Duryea, whose average speed was 71.5 miles per hour.

11. In 1924 a Ford automobile cost $265.

12. The first auto insurance policy is purchased in Westfield, MA, in 1897.