Tuesday, March 31, 2009

The 3rd Generation Honda Accord


The first major change in the third generation Accords that you would see was a new body style that resembled earlier Preludes. Another new change was flip-up headlights, which were unique on sedan models.

A major mechanical design change for the car was the inclusion of double-wishbones at both the front and rear ends of the car. They were more expensive than the typical Macpherson struts found in most small to medium size front engine cars. It also gave the car outstanding handling for a small sedan.

Some of the models now have four-wheel disk brakes in two different sizes, while other models remained with the older front disk and rear drum combination.

Outside of the U.S. you could purchase an Accord with an optional ABS system. Base U.S. models came with 13-inch wheels while the more expensive units had optional 14 inch alloy wheels. From a first generation minimal interior you could now get a very luxurious one, with full power leather upholstery, heated seats, heated mirrors and climate control.

Unfortunately because this car was sold as an economy model, these options were not available in the U.S.

The model line had now expanded to include a 2-door coupe, a 3-door hatchback, a 4-door sedan and a 3-door station wagon. Engines came in two flavors, either a 2.0 liter 98 hp model or a 2.0 liter 120 hp version. The transmissions varied from a 4-speed automatic, a 5-speed automatic and the standard 5-speed manual.

During 1988 an Accord coupe was introduced for the first time. It was manufactured in Marysville, Ohio and was especially notable as being the first Japanese car to be produced in a factory located in the U.S. and exported back to Japan.

In 1989 the SE-I model was introduced with leather sets, cup holders, a Bose music system, bronze-tinted glass and special 14" alloy wheels. Also it came with a dual-tip muffler and 4-wheel disc brakes. The I designation was for fuel injection.

Dennis Dater has been interested in cars since he learned to drive in a 1952 MG TD. He is opening two unique web sites to offer Honda Accord aftermarket parts. Visit him and see the products or read more articles.

http://www.accordmania.com for Accord performance products

http://www.accordtopia.com for Accord appearance products

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dennis_Dater

The Second Generation Honda Accord


The start of the second generation Accords was noteworthy by being built in the USA, AT Honda's plant in Marysville, Ohio. A second significant event was the Accord becoming the best-selling Japanese car in the US. It held that position for almost 15 years. In Japan a sister model to the was announced called the Vigor.

From a mechanical standpoint the second generation was very similar to the original Accord, using the same engine. However there were interior and exterior modifications. One of the major improvements for this model was in the area of quality control. Going from a potential rust bucket the car became one of the most reliable cars on the US market, a position that it still holds in 2009. Some major features of this generation were shag carpets, velour cabin trim and some chrome accents. Colors available included Silver, sky Blue, and Beige.

A difference with the Accord from most of the foreign models was in the area of head light units.

The U.S. model was not allowed to have the aerodynamic molded headlights found outside this country in the foreign models.

A change was made in 1983 to the car and the automatic transmission was upgraded to a four speed box. The manual five speed transmission did not change. A minor change was made in 1983 in that the car's speedometer was changed from the earlier federally mandated 85 miles per hour dial to a more realistic 120 miles per hour unit. A new color of Columbus Slate Gray was added to the buyer's choice in paint colors.

Another milestone was reached in 1984 when Accords sold in the eastern U.S. were produced in Ohio and their quality was judged to be equal to those produced in Japan. This year also saw the horsepower being raised to 80 horse power for the U.S. model.

The major changes for the 1985 cars included a 110 hp fuel-injected engine, which remained the basic engine design for the cars until 1989. Additional colors were also added.

Dennis Dater has been interested in cars since he learned to drive in a 1952 MG TD. He is opening two unique web sites to offer Honda Accord aftermarket parts. Visit him and see the products or read more articles.
http://www.accordmania.com for Accord performance products.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dennis_Dater

Monday, March 30, 2009

Best New Ford Technology


Ford Motors is not only creating the most modern hybrid vehicles but they are also working on the best in safety features for those vehicles. There is a new array of "active" crash-avoidance technologies that will be introduced into this year by driving prototypes into large, car-shaped balloons to help customers avoid real accidents. Engineers at the Dearborn Development Center use these balloons to test the company's new adaptive cruise control and collision warning with brake support technology. The consumer is demanding that some technology be created that can help avoid sudden unexpected hazards due to cruise control failure or brake support failures. This is just a couple of the many new safety features that are being checked and corrected for the consumers.

Ford Motors plans on introducing the system on the 2010 Ford Taurus, available in the fall 2009, while Lincoln is announcing the new system will be offered on the 2010 MKS, adding to the Lincoln flagship sedan's long list of available technology. One of the many newer technologies is the parallel parking active park assist that makes it easier for the consumer to park without touching the steering wheel. Along with the adaptive cruise control and collision warning with brake support to warn drivers of possible hazards in front of them and assist them in reacting earlier Ford Motors believes this will improve sales for the newer vehicles. Ford Motors is using radar in order to monitor the area in front of the vehicle which should help to drastically reduce major accidents by the careful driver.

The newer safety features developed by the Ford Motors Technology division are things that other automakers will want to take a good look at and perhaps they too will install similar technologies in their vehicles. The idea is to save the consumer not only on gas mileage but to implement a vehicle that is not too expensive to repair. The high cost of repair bills is driving the profitability down for insurance companies but it is also putting a strong dent in the pocket of the consumer. No one wants high repair bills on a vehicle because it is poorly constructed and by implementing safety technology this will make the consumer much friendlier when it comes to buying the newer hybrids. The government takes a look at what "The Big Three" automakers are doing with the funds that they will be getting.

As the world grows, auto makers are going to become more advanced over it's lifetime. From safety features to make it safer for you to newer features in the car that make it more convenient for you and your family. It's amazing to look back on everything in the past and see how far car companies have come today. Just think of what's out there right now and think 10 or even 20 years down the road from now. No matter what kind of car you step into, you're going to find that you're going to be driving in a wonderful piece of technology.

About the Author

Find the best gas credit cards on the market that can save you up to 10% and more of Tom's work all at FINDgascards.

Volvo Cars History


Volvo Cars have a long and amazing history that spans over years and decades. Starting from 1927, to today, they have been manufacturing cars for over eighty years. And over the years, they have only improved.

Volvo Company, founded by Assar Gabrielson and Gustaf Larsson, produced its first car in a small factory at Hisingen, Gothenburg on the 4th of April in the year 1927. It was an open car with a four- cylinder engine and was called the Volvo OV4. They also produced the PV4 saloon. However, they were not successes and only 297 models were sold in that year. This was followed by two successful years with the PV651, the TR671 and the TR672 being released. Also, a more luxurious version of the PV651, called the PV652 was released. Volvo also bought the Hinsingen Factory where the cars were made.

In 1932, they passed a manufacturing landmark when they manufactured the 10,000th car. They made the first Volvo bus as well, which was called the LV70B. From 1933 to 1943, many new cars, buses and taxis were released. These were more modern and had many features that are seen in cars today. However after this, there was a difficult period for Volvo. The Second World War had broken out and this restricted the production of cars. But the year 1944 saw a significant change in the form of the Volvo PV444 and PV544. These dominated the Volvo car production till around the mid 1960's and even caught the interest of the American market. They also released the popular Volvo 120 which was also called the Amazon.

These cars were far safer and security was even then, a main concern. The first car produced the Volvo company was the P1800, which rose to fame with Roger Moore. By 1964, the Volvo Company was pretty much booming. They had set up a company in Sweden that was capable of producing 200,000 cars a year. In 1966, the Volvo 140 family came into the market and the company hoped to secure their position with them. There were both saloon and estate models of these released, hoping to catch different people in the market.

The Volvo Company was also evolving and many new features like crumple zones, rear facing child seats, collapsible steering columns, side collision protection, and three way catalytic converter. In the 1970's, Volvo sales soared with the release of the Volvo 240 and Volvo 340 series. In 1982, the Volvo 700 took the company into an exclusive market. The Volvo 400 replaced the 340 series and was extremely popular as it had more interior space and excellent road handling facilities.

In 1991 a new Volvo was released called the Volvo 850. It was the first front-wheel executive car and had a five-cylinder engine. It was a pleasure to drive and won great praise. They had proposed a merger with Renault but that did not come through. However, this turned out to be a boon for Volvo. This allowed the Volvo Company to develop the sleeker and smoother S40 and V40, which were instant hits. They merged safety, style and comfort and all of the other traditional values of the Volvo Company. With the 1998 Volvo S80 sedan the 1999 V70 wagon, they brought new meaning for the phrase 'traveling in style'. In 2000, the Volvo S60 came out and in 2002, the Volvo XC90 was released. In 2003, the Volvo S40 and V50 were produced and in 2005, the C70 was released. The year 2006 saw the release of the Volvo C30.

Along with their long history of car making, Volvo Cars have also evolved as a company that makes and sells only those cars that are prime examples of their philosophy. At eVolvoCars Neil Baulch looks at the Company and it's cars.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Neil_Baulch

Sunday, March 29, 2009

The Chevrolet Lumina


Founded by General Motors, the first Chevy Lumina model came as a surprise in the year 1996. The latest to join the series is its 2001 model. Power Brakes, Cruise Control, Anti-Theft Alarm System, Power Windows, Ventilation System, Four Speakers, Plastic Steering Wheel and Internal Button Power Locks are some interesting features of the new 2001 car. The list doesn't ends here, there is much more in this car that makes it worth buying, so come and read on.

2001 Model
In spite of not being a latest car model in the automobile industry, the 2001 is a lot better than several previous models. With this particular model, you get a standard warranty of 3 years. A perfect car to accommodate up to 6 people at a time, this car from Chevrolet is well within the reach of a common man. Buy the latest Lumina model in a price as affordable as $ 4,032.

Performance
The 3,135 cc 3.1 liters 6V engine in itself speaks of the Lumina 01' performance. With such a powerful engine, this car delivers a great power of 131 kW and 175 horsepower. It works efficiently with unleaded fuel and delivers a great fuel economy of 7.8 on EPA highway. Like many other Chevrolet models, the new 01' model also uses the multi-point injection fuel system. It also comes fitted with a 63 liter unleaded fuel tank.

Features
After discussing performance, let's discuss its interesting features. It offers superb handling with its Immobilizer, Strut front suspension, two Disc Brakes and Stabilizer Bars. Sporting a luxury trim body, this latest model comes in a gloss paint, metallic paint and black paint. To match such superb exteriors, it features equally beautiful and efficient interiors like Air Conditioning, Front Ashtray, Automatic Drive Indicator and Delco Audio System.

So, if you really care to make a difference in your driving style, then trust Chevrolet's Lumina 2001 model. Since this is an old model, you get the advantage of buying it as a second-hand car from many used car shops. Believe it or not, this car has all that you have been looking for in a car, be it in terms of look, performance or price.

Got Engines Inc. specializes in Chevy Engines and Chevy transmissions

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brian_Hanson

The SUV Chevrolet Suburban


Chevy Suburban is a SUV which is branded to be the second most affordable SUV out of a complied list of 10 SUV which are available in the market today. This car is capable of delivering a good ride and good control over the handing of the car in respect to its large frame. This vehicle is known for its improved fuel economy and hugely spacious and luxurious interiors.

Individuals, who are looking forward to buy a Suburban, should definitely check out the latest version which will be on the roads by early 2009.

Remodeling
Chevy Suburban was recently redesigned in 2007 in order to give it a more revamped and updated look. The reviews about the remodeling of this SUV have so far been positive ones. This car was introduced in 1936 and is still in production. This is a truck like car which is basically meant for commercial or rural use. Individuals who are looking forward to own a car with cargo capacity, third row seating class-leading passenger along with solid truck-based towing capability should definitely go for this SUV.

Features
The current version of Chevrolet Suburban which is available in the markets was redesigned in 2007. This car is fitted with two advanced V8 engines. Apart from this, the car has innumerable options which can be used to add several other luxury options to the car. Some of the other highlights of this car include front seat side-impact airbags, stability control and side curtain airbags. These features have made the latest version of this vehicle extremely safer than ever before.

This series is available in three models, base LS, slightly luxurious LT and the sporty LTZ. The standard engine which comes in a 5.3 liter V8 which can make 320 horsepower and 340 pound feet of torque. This model is also fitted with fuel conserving cylinder-deactivation technology. Another version which packs in 6.0 liter V8 which can pack in 366 horsepower is also available as an option.

Both these models are matched to suit the four speed automatic transmission. The latest model of 2008 is also fitted with upgraded six-speed unit. The towing capacity of this car can extend up to 10,000 pounds. Individuals can also make the choice of going either for two or four wheel drive. The four wheel drive model is an ideal substitute for independent front suspension.

Got Engines Inc. specializes in Chevy Engines and Chevy engines

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brian_Hanson

Friday, March 27, 2009

Best Sports Car Is A Ferrari


The classic look of the Ferrari is its blazing race red color (Rosso Corsa) alongside the prominent black steed on canary yellow background topped by the Italian flag. Colors have been the essence of luxury when it comes to luxury cars. But what is the Ferrari, and how did its popularity come to be?

The Ferrari in fact began Italian Enzo Ferrari's establishment of the Scuderia Ferrari in 1929. He didn't exactly build the company for the purpose of selling luxury sports cars built for the road, but to simply provide sponsorship for the Modena-based amateur car racers and enthusiasts. Its founder, for a time, successfully raced drivers in Alfa Romeos until he learned of Alfa Romeo's intent to purchase Scuderia.

This forced Enzo to inevitably carry on with Scuderia Ferrari on his own. What made this great man begin the huge Ferrari sports car empire? It was a result of the need to finance the Scuderia that he actually reluctantly sold the very first Ferrari, dubbed the 125 S, in the year 1947.

However, the force that was Ferrari did not come to be as a result of just an image of luxury and prestige, since Enzo did not desire to even begin sales of his racecars. What gave the Ferrari its niche market was its beautiful design and breakneck driving speeds.

Knowing this particularly interesting history; speed up to the present and we have the sports car giant Ferrari still holding true to its reputation of beauty and speed.

The fastest Ferrari sports car to date is the 2002 Ferrari ENZO, designed by the Pininfarina design house. The new-found speed of the Ferrari ENZO comes from the fact that every bit of the design aspect of this model serves a particular speed or aerodynamic function.

The Ferrari ENZO is a testament to its Formula 1 participation, creating a statement both on the race track and on the exotic and fast sports car lists. For one, its sleek and pointed front were designed to facilitate the airflow, helping cool the brakes and the engine during the heat of a race. The entire body's shape is to create effective aerodynamics and reduce drag.

Beginning with the Ferrari ENZO is the option for buyers to personalize the Ferrari's cockpit in order to best suit their taste and needs.

Enzo Ferrari built an empire on the statement of beauty and speed. With its continued patronage for these two values through the years, expect Ferrari to continue being a force to be reckoned with.

About the Author

Information on giraffe facts can be found at the About Animals site.

The 2006 Jaguar XK8


Las Vegas, the most populous city in the U.S. state of Nevada. Las Vegas, it is not just an internationally renowned major resort city that is known for its gambling, shopping and entertainment. But as the entertainment capital of the world it also has places to go and things to do where you wouldn't spend that much money. Where are these places?What are these things? Sit back and relax for I am about to tell you.

One of the great sights to go to Las Vegas is the Lion Habitat at the MGM Grand. This place opened in July 1999 as has a glassed-in enclosure that showcases up to five lions a day. The Lion Habitat also features a transparent tunnel where you can be surrounded by the lions. After your trip in the wildlife we are of the urban jungle of New York City. New York, New York Hotel and Casino opened in 1997 and includes a replica of the statue of liberty. It also features a roller coaster that loops around skyscrapers. You can also stroll inside the art-deco interiors and replica of Central Park.

After New York, we are going to one of my favorites. The Dancing Fountains of Bellagio. The Bellagio Hotel opened in 1998 and features a man made turquoise lake that becomes a stage ground for a 1,000-foot-long fountain display. The fountain can burst jets of water 240 feet in the air sweeping and dancing to Andrea Botticelli and Sarah Brightman's Con Tee Partiro. Then after experiencing the element of water dance. We move onto another element, the element of fire. The Flaming Volcano at the Mirage erupts every 15 minutes from 7 pm to midnight and sends fire 100 feet into the sky and transforming into a waterfall of molten lava. Las Vegas is crazy! And to top it all, we are going to rent a car. Las Vegas offers a lot of exotic, sports, luxury, and classic cars for rent. One of these cars is the 2006 Jaguar XKR Convertible "Supercharged V8".

The 2006 Jaguar XKR Convertible "Supercharged V8" is a gorgeous car that has 400 horsepower V8 engine. It has got a timeless look similar to the E-type of the 1960s, it has got comfort, it has got safety and performance features a premium sports-luxury car should have.

The 2006 Jaguar XKR Convertible "Supercharged V8" has got Auto transmission, GPS, heater, air conditioner, stereo and a capacity that is good for four people. Now, are you excited to come to Las Vegas? Sure you are. See ya in Las Vegas! Bye!

About the Author

Las Vegas Exotic Car Rentals: From 1928 to 2008 we have the LARGEST selection of Exotic, Classic and Luxury Rental Cars on the Strip! From Auburns to Packards, Voyager Classics Car Rentals has the largest selection of classics available for rent anywhere in Las Vegas.

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

The Pagani Zonda R


When you attempt to think of a compelling car the first type to enter your mind might be Lamborghini, Ferrari, or Porsche. These types of supercars are the most common produced in the whole world and they are all tremendous in their own right. But wouldn't you want a car that is more exhilarating and special?

Pagani is a famous automaker that has produced its fair amount of supercars. Yet, it is not a name that is well known. As A Matter Of Fact unless you are a car enthusiast numerous of you may not heard of this name before now. This means that you have never had the joy of seeing the Pagani Zonda R. This vehicle is the epitome of class, speed, and perfect power!

Just one look at the aggressive bodywork of this supercar and you will be able to feel the power that is emanating from it. Even if you were to just take a test drive you would be tempted to force it to its limit and travel as fast as you could. And it would most likely be more than capable of handling this.

The Pagani Zonda R was designed to be driven on the racecourse. In fact the Zonda R was modeled after the Zonda F model. The supercar is produced with a Carbon-Titanium composite that helps to make it lightweight - without sacrificing rigidity.

Below the sleek hood dwells a Mercedes AMG 6.0 liter engine that can punch out out 750 horsepower and 710 Nm of torque. The driver utilises a direct throttle actuation that is supercharged through a mechanical cable. The supercar is also built with a 12 way Bosch Motorsport traction control as well as an ABS system.

The inside of any supercar should be comfortable and just as pleasant as the exterior. Pagani suffered no expense when it came to the Zonda R's interior. The controls inside of the supercar are tremendous and the whole interior has been given a quality finish that gives it a perfect shine. The seats are Toora and have five point safety belts as well as a CrMo roll cage that will keep drivers safe.

Those able to get their hands on a Zonda R will be able to experience the best performance and speed on the raceway that you would never be able to get on the road. It has the ability to rev from 0 to 60 in less than 2.7 seconds. The Pagani Zonda R is priced at 1.460.000.

The Jaguar XJ 2009


This coming July the latest revolutionary Jaguar XJ will be unveiled in London preceding its opening in the latter part of 2009 with the intention of reclaiming some of its regular executive clients. The XJ was previously the natural and patriotic vehicle of choice for board directors all over corporate Britain, but has since been replaced by the Mercedes-Benz S-Class.

However, the XJ will attempt to open a new customer base through new styling, lightweight alloy construction, and new powerplants. Dubbed as Project X351, it started out as a simple reskin of the present XJ model, but as the project progressed its engineering became more expanded making the K351 the first Jaguar flagship to be introduced with a re-engineered body and new powerplants. In the past Jaguar did what most carmakers do - launch cars with new bodies but with old version engines for reason of lowering costs. The structure is basically new with the rear structure modified to house the XK's differential which needs a new subframe and new mounts.

The experiences of the carmaker in reskinning and repackaging of the S-type into the XF are currently being used in the XJ. The Jaguar began with a coupe-derived rear cabin, with a low rear seat for a low-mounted rear window. The design, however, has evolved into a more functional shape which was motivated by making the rear cabin as comfortable as possible for a chauffeured executive. The XF motivated the styling although there are information coming out that the car is expected to come with a more stunning appearance.

An informant within the project said that many will not be prepared for what they will see when the car comes out. The improvements also follow into the interior of the car.The new XJ model, which carries over some elements from the XF, such as the rotary gear selector and the basic theme with lots of shiny wood and metallic trim, has brought the design to a whole new level of craftsmanship and excellence.


Sunday, March 22, 2009

The Ferrari F355


The Italian performance car producer Ferrari created the Ferrari F355 between nineteen ninety four and nineteen ninety nine, a production lifespan of five years. The F355 was introduced as a successor of the V8 powered, 2 seater, Ferrari F348. The F355 was succeeded by the Ferrari 360 after its production run ended in nineteen ninety nine. The F360 made improvements to the body of the car, including a lighter yet stiffer chassis and a more smooth and rounded styling, compared to the more straight edges of the Ferrari F355. The F360 was later replaced by the F430, a car similar in aesthetics.

The Ferrari F355 is a 2 seat coupe which is powered by a mid V8 engine, an engine which was notable more powerful than that fitted to the Ferrari 348, with five valves per cylinder and an increase in capacity. The three point five litre engine produced three hundred and eighty break horse power, with a top speed of one hundred and eighty three miles per hour (two hundred and ninety five kilometres per hour).

Three body styles were made available over the lifespan of the Ferrari F355; the convertible spider, the Berlinetta coupe, and the targa GTS. The first initial body styles were the coupe and targa, with the spider introduced a year after the production of the car. The Berlinetta body style is the hard top version, which was very popular. The targa body style describes the semi convertible body, whereas the spider is the full convertible model. Over eleven thousand cars were produced in the F355's life time, proving popular as a Ferrari model.

Although previous Ferrari models has their name derived from the capacity of the engine added to the number of cylinders, the F355 ended this trend with the car named after adding the engine capacity to the number of valves per cylinder, a name which indicates Ferrari's delight in this innovative achievement.

Classic Cars For Sale has Ferrari cars for sale, and more Ferrari information

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andy_Webbed

The Ferrari Mondial


The Italian sports car manufacture, Ferrari, produced the Ferrari Mondial for thirteen years, from nineteen eighty to nineteen ninety three. Ferrari is an Italian based manufacturer based in Maranello, and was founded by Enzo Ferrari in nineteen twenty eight. The extremely successful company, which has had remarkable success in Formula One, began to produce the Ferrari Mondial in nineteen eighty. The Ferrari Mondial was created in to body types; the coupe and the cabriolet, and sold in decent numbers - over six thousand units over the course of its production life span.

The Mondial succeeded the Ferrari GT4, a mid engine V8 which was produced between nineteen seventy three and nineteen eighty, when it was then replaced by the Mondial. Over its seven year life span the GT4 had sold close to three thousand units. The Mondial was styled differently than its predecessor, the GT4, with the styling left to Pininfarina, whereas the GT4 was Bertone styled.

This particular Ferrari model was a lot more practical than other Ferrari models, with extensive space compared to other cars which share the marque. A higher roof, longer doors, four seats with adequate leg room, and high visibility, proved popular whilst still maintaining the performance levels which are associated with Ferraris.

The layout of the Mondial was altered from previous Ferrari models, with the main components; the engine unit, gearbox and suspension, being all removable due to be connected to a sub frame, a feature which made it much easier for a rebuild. Indeed, this was not the only notable feature of the transmission, as the gear had a changed pattern of gears than the standard H shift pattern, with fifth now positioned behind forth, making the change from fourth to fifth much easier and efficient.

The Mondial 8 was first produced, followed by the Mondial GV. Later variations include the 3.2 and the Mondial t. The cars were produced in Modena, Italy.

Classic Cars For Sale has Ferrari cars for sale, and more Ferrari information

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andy_Webbed

Friday, March 20, 2009

The Audi A3


If you plan on searching for a car that serves you better with the performance of the engine and the quality of the car, then you should check out forums that can better answer your questions to what ones the best. The internet can be a very good source of information that can make your discussion easier. If you want quality and performance you should check out the New Audi A3. The Audi A3 brings you closer to the new technology of engines and stick shifts. The gear box in the Audi A3 is a standard six gear box that provides you with an easy ease shift. The shifting can also provide you with the perfect shifts that don't leave you with stalling. The 1.8 liter engine also provides you with a turbo engine that comes in stock. The engine total horse power 150 and gets better through modifications. The Audi A3 can be found on many forums throughout the internet and that makes it an easy way to finding what you should do next to increase the performance of the Engine.

Audi is one of the most expensive cars made out there today, besides the Mercedes. The competition between two becomes a competition as to who comes out with the better car. The search for a car that better suits you can also be helped by asking people from internet forums. There are many Audi fans out there and many like the American cars. The best bet for you to do is ask many people from different forums that will give you the better answers to your question. If you plan on buying an Audi you will want to know the A3 is fully ready to rock your world, however it's going to be better for a small family and married couple. When you drive the Audi A3 you will realize you made the right choice when it comes to the shifting and performance of the engine. There are many forums that can tell you the same thing that they found the Audi A3 to be better to drive for them then most cars that are standards. The manual side of the car also allows you to test the engine to its fullest, being very safe at the same time.

The safety rating of the Audi A3 is at a good rating and provides you with an engine that has 5 valves per cylinder. The engine also is very easy to keep tuned and allows you to simply find all the fluids that need changed.

The following information that can better serve you for an online Audi A3 forum is located here

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Hendrik_Hendricius_Kleinwaechter

The Best Audi A2


The Audi A2 is one of the highest quality cars that the Audi Company has released today. If you plan on picking the Audi A2 model, rather than the other brand of models of Audi production. You should know that the Audi A2 is one of the top quality family cars that's out on the market today, which brings you closer to the new age technology that gives you excellent gas mileage. The Audi A2 can get you the money you want saved in its space the car provides and the gas mileage. Also you should know that the light weight body provides you with fast, reliably and stability. The safety to the car is perfect for any family and will keep them safe while you drive.

Another thing you should know is to find the information the best way on the Internet for the Audi A2, which will be through online Audi A2 forums. There are over millions of forums out there today on the internet that will provide you first person views of the new Audi A2. This will help you find the best information you need in order to see if you want to purchase the vehicle. The Audi A2 is one car that's going to be expensive. However, you should know it's worth the price that it's going on the market. The German engineering of the car allows you to see how much they put into the car to get the car to saving you money quick. The online forums that you can find for the Audi A2 can really help you to find the year you want and which ones best suits you. If you plan on getting a Audi A2 you should be happy to know there easy to find near you. There are many ways to finding the nearest car lot and that's by searching 411 or even map quest.

The search for the ultimate forum is to be hard since there is over millions of forums that are located on the internet today. The search engines can help you find the forum that best suits you for the information you are finding. The Forums also allow you to ask questions in order for you to find a friend that has one and knows the answer. There are many people that help people today find the solution to their problems quicker by using forums.

The Audi A2 forum that's located in the resource box will help be on your way to finding the best answers for you self

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Hendrik_Hendricius_Kleinwaechter

Wednesday, March 18, 2009

The History of Audi AG


Audi AG is the company responsible for production of cars of the Audi model. Though not a fully-fledged company themselves, Audi AG have made a huge profit on their successes over the years with cars such as the Audi TT. Audi AG is a subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group who own 99.7% of all shares in the company.

Audi AG's motto is 'Vorsprung durch Technik', which translates into English as 'Advancement through technology'. It is this attitude towards technology and class that has set Audi aside from its competitors since the company was formed all the way back in 1899 by August Horch.

The first Audi car was produced in 1901 - albeit under the company name 'Horch', named after the founder. Horch was himself however expelled from the company in 1909, and founded Audi as a second company to rival Horch. The first cars Audi produced were 2.6L four cylinder models and 3.6L models, gaining speed and momentum already in sales figures and profit.

During the Second World War, Audi provided a lot of cars and specially designed military vehicles to the German armed forces to aid them in their efforts. After May 1940, no more civilian production took place, with the company (now known as the 'Auto Union' after a merger) decided to provide vehicles solely for military usage.

In 1964, well after the war had finished, the Volkswagen Group moved in and bought a majority share of the company, a decision that would prove to be remarkably profitable, revolutionizing the company and allowing it to surpass all limits anyone could have imagined for it.

After another merger in the late 1960s, the 'Auto Union' became known as 'Audi NSU Auto Union AG'. The first car to be released after this merger was the Audi 100, another instant success, followed by the Audi 80 and Audi 50 not long after. The Audi 50 was renamed the Volkswagen Polo in 1974.

Audi at this point had an image of conservatism, and to remedy this they decided to move into the racing and high performance markets. The Audi Quattro, a turbocharged coupe was released to help with their aims in this sector.

In the early 21st century, Audi is continuing to do well, with sales and profits growing on a yearly basis, and Audi continuing to be regarded as one of the most successful car companies ever. In 2008, over a million units were sold, and the profit was around three trillion euros, with a turnover over ten times this. Audi provides employment to over fifty thousand people in countries worldwide and remains a formidable force in the car industry today.

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The New Toyota Land Cruiser


Toyota has been in the sport utility business for decades. One of the earliest offerings by Toyota is of course the Land Cruiser. As one of the earliest examples of a true SUV, the Toyota Land Cruiser has always been known for having an uncanny off road ability that has helped the Land Cruiser become a legend. But Today's Land Cruiser offers more than just incredible off road ability, as it also is one of the most luxurious full-size SUVs on the market, truly making it unmatched in amenities and ruggedness.

The latest 2008 Toyota Land Cruiser has a process tag of just over $70K. Westminster Toyota dealer says that is certainly a far cry from earlier Land Cruiser generations that were ultra basic and utilitarian. Inside, customers at Irvine Toyota dealers say the dash feels more like a bridge of a large ship than that of an SUV. There are endless gadgets and luxuries that the driver has to enjoy, even voice activated navigation, JBL sound system, and a wide range of other comforts.

For off-road enthusiasts, the Toyota Land Cruiser has nearly unmatched credentials. Not only does it have a history of off road capabilities, but the current Land Cruiser did not go soft despite having a more upscale attitude according to Cheyenne Auto dealers. Full-time all wheel driver, a locking differential, and a limited slips differential, the Toyota Land Cruiser can travel just about anywhere you would need it to.

Powering the current Toyota Land Cruiser is a 5.7 liter V8 engine, the same one that powers the Tundra, which produces an impressive 381 horsepower and is mated to a six speed automatic transmission. Despite its huge mass, and its hefty weight of 5920 pounds, Kingston Toyota dealers' customers have noticed that the big V8 will move the Land Cruiser without much trouble. In addition, the suspension helps move the Land Cruiser gracefully, but what isn't graceful is how much fuel is the Cruiser consumes. Mileage is about 13 miles per gallon in the city and 18 miles per gallon on the highway.

About the Author

Joe Kent is a writer for TK Carsites, an automotive website design and marketing firm in Orange, CA, that specializes in working with car dealers nationwide.

Tuesday, March 17, 2009

Mazda MX5 The Cheap Sports Car?


The purchase of sports cars is a precarious business; there are so many factors to take into consideration before you hand over that (soon to be) maxed out credit card. For a start, cars of this nature have some of the harshest depreciation rates of all cars. You are likely to find that your prized, new vehicle loses almost half of its value as soon as its pristine-tuned engine elegantly pulls you away from the forecourt. Secondly, there are the age-specific dilemmas to take into consideration. We are all aware of the "mid-life crisis" tag that is (often) justly hung over the heads of the graying gentlemen who buy them. Amongst other sneers is the occasional jibe that a middle-aged man in a sports car looks like a Worm on a Diamond. Thirdly, there are the obvious cost implications. A high performance car that looks the part is going to set you back in a major way; in many cases you may just be paying over the odds for the badge on the front.

So, what if you were able to buy a sports car that neatly avoided all three of these social faux pas in one handy and rather impressive, sporty little number? The answer is the Mazda MX-5; one of the most popular roadster sports cars in the world (including the USA's Miata namesake).

The Mazda MX-5 is currently in its third generation and enjoying a consistent and fully deserved level of popularity. But what keeps dragging the consumers in is the unbelievably low price. For less than £20,000 you can own a fully functional, stylish looking and high performing sports car. Best of all, you won't get the jeering masses pointing at you as you drive through the town centres, accusing you of having some kind of breakdown. The question is; how does the sporty Mazda manage to be both cheap, mock-proof and maintain its value in the used car market?

The answer is slightly depressing to the prospective Mazda MX-5 owner, but true nonetheless. The Mazda MX-5 is quite a common car. When I say "common" I don't mean like your Cousin Jeanette who spends every Friday night at the working men's clubs looking for a 'victim' for the night, but common in the sense that more than a few people have cottoned on to the benefits of owning a Mazda MX-5. The Mazda represents the meeting point between dreams and reality for a lot of drivers. It is achievable but not disappointing, which is probably the best that the largest proportion of the population can hope for in driving terms.

In terms of performance, the Mazda MX-5 really states its case for being the world's most popular sports car. It is one of the lowest cost cars you will be able to get rear wheel drive in and with the 0-60 of slightly over 7 seconds, you are looking at car with pretty serious power. The 2.0 Litre Petrol is my personal favourite of the two available engines (the other being a slightly limp 1.8 Petrol) with an impressive 158 BHP. In a car of this size, that amount of torque can feel as though you have a rocket strapped to your back when you put your foot down.

It would be foolish to state that the Mazda MX-5 is the dream car for the sporty drivers amongst us, I think everyone would prefer a Porsche 911 or a Ferrari 599, but for the money you pay, the Mazda is a heck of a car!

Pete J Ridgard is a writer and a car enthusiast. He currently writes for the automotive industry. Here he discusses the Mazda MX-5

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The Station Wagon


The station wagon is one of the most popular motor vehicles in the country today after a strong comeback in the 1990s. The automobile was incredibly popular in the 1960s and 1970s for families of four or more. Children would fight over who got to sit in the back seat for one reason; the back row of seats faced the opposite direction of all the other seats. This meant that anyone sitting in the back row of seats would be looking out the back window of the vehicle at the cars driving behind it. The car wasn't as popular in the 1980s but exploded onto the scene again in the mid 1990s and early 2000s.

The design and appearance of the station wagon has gone from an almost boxlike appearance to a more rounded off and sleek appearance over the years. The design and appearance of the automobile has helped to grow its popularity once again. The majority of these vehicles are just modified sedans that have the interior expanded to seat more people. In a station wagon there is no designated trunk area like in a sedan. The back row of seats can be folded down to create storage space for shopping trips and even for a dog to rest. Most station wagons these days can seat anywhere from seven to nine people at once, if all of the rows of seats are in use.

Even though station wagons have become popular again, none of them are manufactured with the reverse rear row of seats facing out of the back window. All of these cars now have front facing rows of seats. The first version of the vehicle came about in the 1920s and 1930s and was originally called depot hacks and was a product of the age of train travel. One of the most popular versions of the automobile was the Pontiac Woodie. The Pontiac Woodie was one of the sleekest station wagons on the market during its time. The Woodie had wood sides on either side of the car and a colorful front.

Station wagons have been manufactured in all shapes, sizes, and colors over the years. Some station wagons looked more like a box while others looked more like a hearse. One of the most popular station wagons from pop culture was the one decorated and used by the Ghostbusters in their movies. The automobile was white with their logo on the doors and a bunch of lights and equipment on the roof. The Ghostbusters station wagon was named the Ecto 1 for the movies. Another popular station wagon from pop culture was the one used by the Griswold family in the National Lampoon series of movies.

Station wagons have been manufactured to seat anywhere from four to nine people; they can be two doors, four doors, and even six doors on some models. The popularity of the car has since begun to drop again in North America, including the United States and Canada


Monday, March 16, 2009

Best Used BMW to buy?


Buying a used car has always been perceived as a gamble, a bit of a punt, you can chance your arm, save yourself a few quid and grab yourself a nice motor at a bargain price, but we have all heard the horror stories: those that have bought a car privately only for it to be in the garage after a couple of weeks with a repair bill as long as your arm.

But buying second hand does not have to be a risk. Buying from a registered dealer safeguards your purchase with a warranty and specific engineering checks part of the package. For example, buying a used BMW from a registered BMW dealership offers you many peace of mind from the 12 month warranty, but more so from the fact that every single used BMW is checked extensively by BMW technicians.

The recession is not filling the nation with sunshine at the moment, but one shining light is the fact that it is currently a very good time to buy a car, be it a brand new Audi, or Mini or a used BMW or Lexus, there are bargains out there to suit your budget. In many respects used cars offer much better value than a brand new car as you will avoid the loss of investment that occurs during the first year of depreciation of a vehicle.

Buying a used car from a registered dealership also provides you with the guarantee that the car has been finance checked, many people have been stung when buying privately as they have been hit from finance companies with overdue payments from the previous owner. Car data checks are vital when purchasing a used vehicle as these thorough checks to ensure the vehicle has not been involved in any unrecorded accidents and negate the unfortunate occurrence of purchasing a cut and shut vehicle.

Whilst a private sale may well be considerably cheaper, a dealership is risk free and offers excellent after sales customer care should there be any problems with the purchased vehicle. With somebody to fall back on - and experts at that - surely the extra cost is money well spent?

Many authorised dealers are having to add special offers, with extended warranties and other add ons just to sell some cars in the current economical climate as bargains are there for the taking. For example, a BMW 116i will set you back 22,500 pounds on the road, but in comparison a used BMW 116i, less than one year old and with just 3000 miles on the clock costs as low as 14,000 pounds from an authorised BMW dealer.

The uncertainty of the motor industry at the moment means that it has never been a better time to buy either a brand new car or a used car, and with better value for money in used cars there's no wonder why used car sales against that of brand new sales have risen of late. If you are considering purchasing a used car though, just bear in mind the peace of mind on offer from purchasing a vehicle from an authorised dealership ahead of a private sale.

About the Author

Shaun Parker is a car expert with many years of experience in the used cars industry. Find out more about {a href=" http://www.cooperbmw.co.uk"}used BMW at http://www.cooperbmw.co.uk

The Best Daewoo Car 2009


Daewoo has been in existence much, much longer than most people realize as it turns out. For those of us in the United States, Daewoo is a newcomer to the automobile playing field but it has actually been in existence since the early 20th century.

Established in 1937, Daewoo started out as National Motor Company in Bupyeong-gu, Incheon, South Korea. The next stop along the way was its next name change to Saenara Motors. 1962 saw the company enter into collaborations with Toyota. This proved to be an unfruitful venture for Toyota who then pulled out of the company just 10 years later.

Once Toyota left, the name was changed again,this time to Shinjin Motor. About this time, General Motors expressed interest in the company. General Motors proposed a joint venture with the Korean company and it officially became General Motors Korea but the name was changed again in 1976 to Saehan Motor. It was not until Daewoo Group took over in 1982 that the company was actually known as Daewoo Motor.

Through out the 1990's the company expanded its markets and all its vehicles used basic General Motors models. The company continually suffered from financial difficulties and the Asian financial crisis only served to exacerbate the monetary problems the company faced.

General Motors finally made the move to acquire most of the company's assets. Shares were spread over a number of companies including Suzuki and SAIC . By 2004, General Motors would move to acquire shares equaling 50.9% making GM the major stockholder in the company.

The company has various plants scattered around the planet and the cars are assembled in several different countries including mainland China, Thailand, India and Colombia.

Daewoo's were originally marketed as the Daewoo Le Mans and Daewoo Racer. In 1998, three models were made and marketed for sale in the United States. The first to be introduced here was a sub compact known as the Daewoo Lanos (Lanos means pleasure in Latin), next came the compact car Nubira (Korean for "to go everywhere"). The next Daewoo released in the United States would be a mid size car named the Daewoo Leganza. Although the vehicles have proven somewhat popular overseas, sales in the United States have been sluggish from the outset.

General Motors finally pulled Daewoo from American markets and by 2003, no Daewoo built vehicles were offered in the United States. Daewoo has proven quite successful in other countries however and the decision was made to put more focus on those markets. Later that year, General Motors made the decision to drop the Daewoo name and rebrand the Daewoo with the Chevrolet marque.

Rebadged Daewoo's did so well in Israel that General Motors adopted this strategy for other countries. In most European markets, however, the original Daewoo brand name remained until late in 2004.

A diesel engine was added to the Daewoo line up for the first time in 2006 and was offered overseas in the Holden Captiva and the Daewoo Windstorm.

The future of the Daewoo line up remains up in the air as General Motors struggles to regain its footing amid swirling financial storms. At the moment, the fate of General Motors itself is undecided and 2009 will be a telling year for the auto-manufacturing giant.

About the Author

Ronnie Tanner is a contributing writer at SWEngines. He writes about used Daewoo engines and choosing this as an alternative to costly car purchases.

Sunday, March 15, 2009

The 2002 Ford Explorer


The update that came about for the 2002 model year brought about the best Ford Explorer yet; the body style was left in the same mould as before, but with detail changes making the car more modern in appeal.

However, the difference came under the bonnet, where a new 210bhp 4.0 liter V6 was joined by a 4.6 liter V8. This engine, although smaller in capacity than the preceding 5.0 liter, gave almost 240bhp, thus propelling the Explorer to new levels of performance.

Furthermore, the Explorer saw the introduction, for the first time, of three row seating, meaning this already very versatile vehicle now had the capacity to take seven people in comfort. Trim levels were also revised, with the base now known as Sport Value, and the top of the range still called Limited. The Explorer continued its fine tradition for luxury and comfort in this guise, and offered enough variants to make it appealing across the board.

It is interesting to note that the market began to change around the time of this third generation Explorer; whereas the 2 door variety - the Sport - had been popular before, it was noted that sales of 2 door SUVs were falling notably. Ford took the decision to discontinue the Sport 2 door version at the end of the models lifetime, when the newer, current Explorer was introduced for 2005.

It was also the case that sales of SUVs began to fall overall; the Explorer still sold well, but not as spectacularly as previously, and this may have had an impact on the demise of the Sport. However, Ford went full steam ahead with the new model, and also with future concepts for the Explorer.


The 1955 Chevrolet


In the early 1950's, every major auto manufacturer was striving to best the competition by introducing a state-of-the-art automobile with all-new styling and a more advanced engine. Meanwhile, Chevrolet seemed to be stuck in a rut; every Chevy from 1929 to 1954 had the same six-cylinder engine under the hood. Chevrolet was losing its edge as a sporty yet affordable car manufacturer, but the tides would change with the 1955 Chevrolet.

The 1955 Chevrolet represented a shift in style and function. The new 265 cubic inch V-8 engine was probably the biggest cause of the popularity of the 1955 Chevrolet, and the option of the "Turbo-Fire" V-8 offered a little extra for auto enthusiasts, with between 162 and 180 horsepower. This small-block V-8 was the first V-8 engine in a Chevrolet since 1918.

The '55 Chevy was the first Chevrolet to feature "Motoramic" styling. Underneath this now-classic styling sat a new frame, 3 new engine types, new brakes, and a new suspension. Compared to earlier Chevrolets, the 1955 Chevy was both lighter and stiffer, with "glide ride" front suspension offering a smooth ride. As General Motors' biggest seller, the Chevrolet name was carefully styled ahead of the release of the all-new 1955 design. The eye-catching design was boxy, yet sleeker and more futuristic than the 1953 and 1954 models. The new model was designed to appear longer, lower, and wider than the older model. Nicknamed the "shoebox" design, the 1955 model was the first Chevy to have streamlined rear fenders. Interior innovations included plush upholstery and a fan-shaped instrument cluster, with an optional radio. With a stylish wrap-around windshield, tail fins, and chrome detailing, the 1955 Chevrolet soon became popular with auto enthusiasts as well as everyday drivers.

The 1955 model year included three Chevrolet models: The Bel Air, the 150, and the 210. Available versions included 2-door and 4-door sedans, station wagons, and the sought-after convertible. 14 different solid color options were available for the 1955 Chevy, although most 1955 Chevrolets were sold with one of 23 popular two-tone color combinations.

The best-selling car in 1955, over 1,700,000 Chevrolets were produced that year. As a testament to its popularity, a '55 Chevy was chosen as the official Pace Car of the Indianapolis 500 on May 30, 1955. While in 1954 Ford had dominated the market by selling 47 percent of all low-priced automobiles, the 1955 Chevy was a smashing success, exceeding Chevrolet's sales record for any previous year. In fact, the 50 millionth GM automobile produced in the United States was a 1955 Chevy Bel Air.

The popularity of the 1955 Chevrolet is thanks to its completely transformed look. With better performance and a shiny new look, the '55 Chevy soon won over the hearts of America. The design introduced in the 1955 Chevrolet existed with minor alterations until the 1958 model year. The 1955 Chevy remains a popular choice more than fifty years after its introduction for car enthusiasts who lovingly restore the cars to their original condition or add modifications according to their personal tastes.

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Saturday, March 14, 2009

The New Worlds Cheapest Cars


When I was 9 years old I remember my parents surprising us and driving home in what appeared to be a large metal box with 4 bicycle tires attached. We couldn't believe our eyes as they pulled up in the driveway with a $3990 sales sticker still on the window. What was even more shocking was that this large metal box wasn't a box at all it was actually a brand new car called the Yugo. At that time the Yugo was just being introduced to the United States and they were marketing it as the world's most affordable car. We immediately hopped inside to take a look at the simple interior and went for a ride around the block. I immediately compared the ride to that of a roller coaster because from start to finish it just felt very unsafe due to the poor cheap quality of the car.

All it took was one ride to realize that $3990 was actually over priced for this hunk of garbage. The Yugo became quite the phenomenon for a few months, but very soon later most people started to realize that when it comes to quality and safety with an automobile, $3,990 wasn't going to get you very far. Within a year, the seats on the car both fell out, the clutch went bad, the heating system broke, and the engine was shot. At first we thought maybe we just got a lemon, but soon realized that this was common with almost every Yugo. The Yugo only lasted for a few years after becoming more of joke than anything else, as dealerships couldn't give that car away.

Now it's the year 2009 and similar to the Yugo, India is releasing the "Tata Nano" which is being advertised as the world's cheapest new car at roughly $2500. The Tata Nano is a small, rear-engined, four-passenger car aimed primarily at the Indian market and yet to be released to the United States. Newsweek identifies the Nano as a part of a "new breed of 21st-century cars" that embody "a contrarian philosophy of smaller, lighter, cheaper" and portend a new era in inexpensive personal transportation - and potentially, "global gridlock" . The Wall Street Journal confirms a global trend toward small cars, which includes the Nano. Now I don't know if the quality of the Nano will be as poor as the Yugo, but in my opinion $2500 for a brand new car sounds a little sketchy. As a comparison, here is a breakdown of some of cheapest new cars sold in America at the moment:

1. Nissan Versa: $9,990
2. Hyundai Accent: $11,070
3. Kia Rio: $11,495
4. Chevrolet Aveo: $11,965
5. Smart fortwo: $11,990
6. Toyota Yaris: $12,205
7. Kia Spectra: $13,550
8. Suzuki Reno: $13,839
9. Hyundai Elantra: $14,120
10. Pontiac G3: $14,335

Now, I'm not sure if the Tata Nano will ever make its way to the United States or if it is a quality automobile. However just from past experience with the Yugo, I will not be one of its guinea pigs lured in by the ridiculous cheap price!


The Buick Regal 2010


The news is just coming out that Buick's Regal will be making a return to the brand's line up. Produced by GM from 1973 to 2004, the Regal was at one time one of the best selling Buicks, offered in two and/or four door body formats. The most well known iteration of the Regal was the Grand National, a stock car that won several titles in the 1980s.

GM has been considering reviving the Regal name for some time. The company is turning to its European division, Opel, to produce the Regal, a model currently sold in China. Right now the Opel Insignia is sold across much of western Europe, thus GM is expected to offer a Buick version of that car by swapping out its grill and replacing Opel badging with Buick.

2008 Introduction, Replacing the Vectra

First introduced for the 2008 model year, the Insignia has been a success for Opel. Replacing the Vectra, the Insignia is stylish, luxurious and very comfortable. Sold as a four door sedan, five door hatchback and a wagon, the Insignia seats five passengers. Only the sedan version will be sold in the US.

Like so many European vehicles, the Insignia has numerous engine choices, nine to be exact. Gas and diesel engines ranging from 1.6L I4 to a 2.8L turbo-charged V6 are available. Likely, a larger in-line four and one or two V6 powered engines will be offered with the Insignia. Unfortunately, no diesel option will be available, given the cost of meeting stringent US pollution requirements.

What the US Model May Look Like

Though US specifications for the new Regal have yet to be announced, we know that the same six-speed manual and automatic transmissions offered in Europe will be paired with the engines sold in cars in the United States. Furthermore, given that Buick is an upscale brand, leather seating surfaces, navigational controls, wood and aluminum inlays and dual zone air conditioning will either be standard features or packaged optionally.

GM has been looking at separating Opel from its operations, possibly selling off the brand or at least a share of it. That may not affect the Regal as whatever agreement is reached would likely include a long lasting supply chain for Buick's operation. Moreover, the car is sold in Brazil as the Chevrolet Vectra in the UK as the Vauxhall Insignia and will soon be sold in Australia as a Holden model.

Clearly, the Regal is coming back. Perhaps as early as this fall in the form of a 2010 model.

Matthew C. Keegan is a freelance writer who resides in North Carolina. Matt is a contributing writer for Andy's Auto Sport an aftermarket supplier of quality parts including Buick rims and BMW wheels.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Matthew_Keegan

Tuesday, March 10, 2009

The 2009 Hyundai Genesis


Lexus and BMW should be seriously scared! The new 2009 Hyundai Genesis is turning heads and making quite an impression. If you're looking for a luxury car but not the high expenses that come with it, you might want to take the 2009 Hyundai Genesis into consideration. The new Hyundai Genesis is a luxury sport sedan that closely resembles the Benz S-Class exterior. It has chrome exterior accents and with all emblems removed the car could be mistaken for a flashy Lexus or even a Mercedes. The 2009 Hyundai Genesis has 18-inch alloy wheels, full power accessories: power and heated front seats with driver memory settings, dual zone automatic climate control, an updated seven speaker Lexicon audio system, a six disc CD player, satellite radio, iPod auxiliary input jacks, and an adjustable power steering wheel. It also includes rain sensing wipers, antilock disc brakes, leather interior seating with the matching leather/wood steering wheel and trim, traction and stability control, automatic dimming rearview mirrors, front head restraints, rear power sunshade, and front/rear seat side airbags.

In addition to all these luxury features, the new Hyundai Genesis has many other optional features. You can choose between a 3.8L V6 or a 4.6L V8 engine. The V6 has 290 horsepower with 264lb.-ft. of torque and an estimated EPA fuel economy of 18-27mpg. The V6 engine may have better fuel economy but the V8 is definitely faster. The V8 engine has 375 horsepower and 333lb.-ft. torque and also does 0 to 60 in just 5.9 seconds. In both models, the six speed automatic with manual shift capability gives ultimate power to the rear wheels. Optional for both engines is a Technology Package. This package includes a computer, front/rear park assist, Logic-7 surround sound audio, navigation system with "real-time" traffic patrol, xenon headlights, a rearview camera, and Bluetooth capabilities.

The new Hyundai Genesis is a sport sedan all its own. It has a premium luxury element, extensive convenient features, and more horsepower with better fuel economy than its rivaling competitors. Best of all, this Hyundai looks and feels like a top of the line Lexus but is cheaper! The going retail price for this striking Hyundai is around $30,000 to $40,000.

The 2008 Subaru Impreza


The 2008 Subaru Impreza could have been more better if the manufacturer would have care to put some more viable changes to the engine and other features. The affordable small car is ranked quite low for its outdated power train and uninspiring style. However the Impreza could only impress the drive when it comes to fuel efficiency and some amount of safety features. Subaru counts this car among the sporty vehicles of time but to be sporty small car it requires some quality.

The all new Subaru Impreza is a all wheel drive car which is ranked low because of its failure to provide good engine choices. The newly redesigned car could not match the new designs of today's needs. Subaru also provided Impreza wagon and Impreza WRX which are performance oriented cars. The performance of WRX is somewhat reliable but the Impreza midsize car could not impress the critics and auto lovers much.

Under the Hood:
The Subaru Impreza has been criticized for it's under performance and less powerful engine features. Let us see what it utilizes under the hood. The Impreza is installed with a standard 2.5-liter aluminum alloy 16-valve boxer engine which makes 170 horsepower and also 170 pound feet of torque. This power is not enough to give the acceleration the present American generation wants. The car can achieve the benchmark of 60 miles per hour in just 9.1 seconds. The smooth line of four-cylinder engine can perform but when it's a Subaru Boxer engine it must have added some more power. The car can achieve 20 miles per gallon in the city and 27 miles per gallon on the highway. This is not so impressive because there are other affordable mid size cars like Toyota Camry and others which have more powerful engine and can do the same.

The Subaru Impreza WRX which is performance oriented car has been able to offer impressive performance with its 305 horsepower, 290 lb-ft 2.5 liter four cylinder engine. This car can achieve the milestone of 60 mph in just 6.1 seconds.

The other model of Subaru called Legacy too used the same engine which the Impreza uses but it has more power options that the 2008 Impreza model. Legacy has a choice of another engine of the car is a 2.5 liter four-cylinder turbo charged engine with 243 horsepower and 241 pound-feet of torque at 3,600 rpm. Moreover there is the is the 3.0 liter six cylinder Subaru boxer engine which makes 245-horsepower and 215 pound-feet of torque at 4,200 rpm. This engine with a five-speed automatic transmission with SPORTSHIFT rev-matching control can give only 17/24 mpg at its bes

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Monday, March 9, 2009

The Lamborghini Gallardo


To sell my Lamborghini is something I thought I would never have to do. My Lamborghini Gallardo was one of the dearest possessions I had, and the idea of parting with it was, quite simply, very disheartening. But life can be harder than we expect it to be. After my marriage last year, I had to take out a new personal loan and I was sure I could handle it: after all, my wife and I were in well paid careers.

Nonetheless, neither of us had thought that the current recession would be this daunting. I lost my job, in fact the management decided to pull down the shutters. That was four months ago, and despite a gruelling job search, I had not been able to find a job that suited my qualifications. Anyway, no point moaning about it. I made the decision that I had to sell my Lamborghini.

To sell my Lamborghini I found it was easier said than done. I had thought deciding to sell my Lamborghini would be the most difficult call, but as it turned out, the process of finding a suitable buyer proved even more difficult. I was just simply clueless about which direction I should go; after all a Lamborghini is a prestige car and needs a specialist buyer. I felt I needed a magic navigator to point me in the right direction. But there were no supernatural powers to guide me, so I had to undertake the research and find out how to sell my Lamborghini by myself. I have now completed the legwork, and have actually managed to sell my Lamborghini for a good price, and I would like to pen the process for others who are contemplating selling their car.

Considering all available options, it was the online route that appealed to me at first. With the online option there would be more enquiries, easier communication options and therefore better chances of getting the price I wanted to sell my Lamborghini for. Online advertisement option is also cheaper than the print option, and it is easier for buyers, as they can have a look in detail at all the photos of the car that have been uploaded.

The next step was figuring out a respectable channel for posting the advert. There were various specific motoring website that enable postings. I then had to select which one I wanted to sell my Lamborghini. The websites usually charge listing fees and other charges such as a commission fee, a fee for formatting, etc. The motoring websites also offer handy tips and suggestions which, help to place the advert successfully, and there are online tools to assist with the endeavour. While searching for a motoring website, do check the advert modification clauses and get an idea of the website's popularity and number of hits a day the website receives. Ensure that the advert includes detailed vehicle description, along with photographs, and if possible a video clip to support the advert.

However, while I was doing the research on how to sell my Lamborghini, I came across some very interesting websites, that basically did all the legwork for me. They were companies that specialised in buying and selling prestige cars and knew what they were talking about. They gave me a good quote over the phone, pending on the condition of the Lamborghini, when they collected my pride and joy from my home address. It was just a matter of deciding which company to go for.

Although selling a car through online advertising is a good option, I'm glad I decided to sell my Lamborghini with a prestige car buyer and seller, as they made the experience as painless and hassle free as possible.

David Barber wrote the Article 'When I Had to Sell my Lamborghini Here's What I Did' and recommends you visit http://www.iainmutch.co.uk if you need a Lamborghini buyer.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Barber

Top 10 New Cars For 2009


Looking to buy a new car this year? You may have your heart set on a particular make or model and you might have explored the new and second hand car prices on the internet and have decided that you can afford to purchase the car of your dreams, but a question you have to ask yourself is can you afford to run it?

Previously you may have asked yourself this question in passing and not really given it any real thought, but with the changes in Vehicle Excise Duty in 2009 and spiraling fuel and maintenance costs, coupled with the Credit Crunch and the through of recession for the next few years then running costs become much more important, therefore compromising and picking a car that you not only like, but will save you money in the long run is a sensible thing to do.

What about the changes in Vehicle Excise Duty? Now cars are classed by how much Carbon Dioxide they emit, therefore more environmentally friendly cars will be charged less Vehicle Excise Duty than more polluting vehicles. At the time of writing the least polluting cars will be exempt from paying tax at all, where as the most polluting cars (class M) such as large, big engined 4x4 vehicles will have to pay £440 per year. Come 2010-11 then this cost increases further to £455 per year.

If you're looking to purchase a brand new car, then there will be another shock for your wallet and it has been dubbed the 'showroom tax.' If you're looking to drive that Class M car out of the showroom, you'll also have to face a bill for a one off 'showroom tax' payment of £950.

To help you pick the right car in this current environmental and financial climate we've compiled a top ten list of cars and car related schemes to consider that could save you money.

1. Buy a Small Family Hatchback. Small family hatchbacks are generally more economical to run and are usually big enough to meet most people's needs. For example the VW Polo Bluemotion 1.4 Tdi is an economical runabout which falls into the Group A tax band. Not only do you not have to pay any tax on this vehicle, you can also avoid paying the showroom tax as this diesel car is so economical it is exempt. This car also boasts around 70mpg which makes it super cheap to run.

2. Buy a Diesel. When it comes to economical cars, vehicles with diesel engines are first to spring to most people's minds. Whilst historically this was typically true, with the cost of diesel at the pump increasingly outstripping the cost of petrol, buying a diesel may not be the best way to save money. For drivers who typically need to drive a lot of miles each year then a diesel will still be more cost effective than its petrol equivalent. However if you do not drive many miles then this may not be true. You'll need to do the maths before you take the plunge in buying a diesel car. On the plus side, the miles to the gallon of a diesel vehicle is typically much higher than petrol cars, so you will at the very least be doing more for the environment. Diesel vehicles are also typically classed into a lower tax band saving money on Vehicle Excise Duty.

3. Bi-Fuel Cars. Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) as a method of running a car or van is becoming a popular way of running a vehicle more environmentally friendly and economically. Although you can buy a bi-fuel car from new many people pay to convert their current car to support LPG. The cost to convert a car is typically around £1500 and a real saving of around 30% on fuel costs can be made with each fill up at the pumps. Finding a petrol station that sells LPG may be one of the more difficult aspects of owning a LPG vehicle, with at least 10% of forecourts now stocking this alternate fuel type.

4. Electric Cars. - For many years electric cars have been pitched as the salvation to spiralling fuel costs and saving the environment from car pollution. Unfortunately in reality the electric vehicle hasn't really lived up to the hype, with slow vehicles and short battery life limiting range. There are a few vehicles on the market which may be suitable depending on your circumstances. If you live in the centre of a large capital city such as London then a vehicle like the G-Wiz may be the right vehicle for you. Owning a G-Wiz in London could make perfect sense as they are exempt from paying parking charges in Westminster, do not have to pay the Central London Congestion Charge and are free from both road tax and petrol costs. However there are some catches. The G-Wiz is a tiny vehicle and feels very cramped inside. The car has a top speed of 50-60 miles per hour, which may not be the end of the world in a city where traffic barely moves faster than a snail pace. Another limiting factor is that the range of the vehicle is just 70 miles and it takes a while to recharge the batteries, which is not quite as simple as filling up at a petrol station! A less extreme version of the G-Wiz is the Toyota Prius, a hybrid electric vehicle which predominately runs off petrol, but uses electric power at low speeds and recharges the batteries at faster speeds. The Prius can do around 65 mpg making it an extremely economical car to drive.

5. Large Cars For the Family and Dog. If you're single and want to save money on your car running costs or do your bit for the environment then you have a lot more options than families who need a larger vehicle to fit everyone in. Whilst smaller cars are more likely to be economical there are some larger vehicles out there which have been designed with both space and economy in mind. Take the Ford Focus C-Max 1.6 TDCI LX- a MPV which has been designed to give plenty of room inside. This is a five seat car which boasts a 1620 litre boot space and a top speed of 115mph. With fairly low emissions, helping to save money on Vehicle Excise Duty and decent economy with 58mpg this vehicle is a good bet for a family looking to save money.

6. Sports Performance in a 'Green Car'. Traditionally being green means that you also have to sacrifice something. However car manufacturers being aware of this have been trying to come up with a compromise- a car with good performance, yet can also give a decent MPG return. For example the Honda Accord 2.2 I-CTDI Sport is one of these cars with 52.3 MPG and a top speed of 129 miles per hour, a great combination of efficiency and performance that can meet all your expectations.

7. Buy a Classic Car. If you're scared that you'll loose a lot of money on the value of your car then buying a classic car may be the best option for you. Try to avoid fashion trends such as the one for VW Beetles and Camper Vans which inflate the cost of these vehicles short term for them to only crash at a later date. Instead pick a car that pure enthusiasts hanker after, as most classic cars tend to hold their value, or indeed increase over time as long as they are looked after. Maintenance costs are likely to be much higher with a classic vehicle and they may not be the most economical on the market, but for pure return on investment if you pick the right vehicle then you will likely get your money back when you come to sell the car.

8. Car Sharing Schemes. Those looking to save money on their everyday running costs of their cars could consider car sharing schemes. Basically car sharing schemes are set up for people to take turns when they drive, saving themselves money on fuel, plus gaining the benefit that they do not have to drive all the time! There are plenty of car sharing schemes out there, such as ones set up for parents doing the school run to a scheme for members of the Met Police Force in London. Explore the options in your local area and you may find that car sharing is a great way to save money. Perhaps if you want to get even more involved you could consider setting up your very own scheme.

9. Time Share Cars. You've heard all about time share villas in the Costa del Sol, but you don't necessary have to be scared of time share car schemes. These schemes can range from clubs where you get a share of a Ferrari or Bentley to drive at the weekend every so often, to pay-as-you-go car schemes where you can join a club, and simply book a run-around for as long as you want from an hour to a day. For those who tend to use public transport predominately and can't really justify owning a car then a pay-as-you-go scheme may be the perfect way of having access to a car without having to pay expensive rental costs. Live in a city and fancy a country jaunt once a month? No problem, book a car online and pick it up, swipe your membership card on the dashboard and you're away! Generally fuel costs (up to a point) are included and insurance is also taken car of.

10. Car Finance Packages. In the current economic climate taking out a car finance package makes perfect sense as you can split your payments over many months allowing you to fully budget for your vehicle. If you are considering buying a car in cash over a forecourt you may be concerned about the recession and redundancy. Having a nest egg in the bank can help provide comfort and piece of mind. Spending that nest egg in the current climate may not be the most sensible thing to do therefore buying a car on a car finance scheme can be the smart move. Also you will likely be able to afford a better car on finance than you might if you were to buy a car outright. The newer the car the more likely your maintenance costs will be reduced, again saving you money in the long run.

Julie is a freelance writer and loves to write on a wide variety of topics.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Julie_Samuel

Sunday, March 8, 2009

The Greatest Car in the World?


Recently hailed as the best car in the world at the World Car of the Year Awards 2008, the Mazda2 excelled in every category to edge out the Ford Mondeo and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

Starting with the exterior the Mazda2 puts other so-called 'hot-hatches' to shame. The sleek and stylish curves make this award winning Mazda youthful and dynamic. This is not surprising seeing as the chief designer was also in charge of the sporty Mazda RX-8. The contours and lines in the body shape suggest that the Mazda2 is ready for action; the sports version is even better with its 16 inch alloys and stylish body kit.

The interior keeps on form with the sporty theme and smart layout although it has been suggested that the plastic used for the dash could be better. The designers have made sure that there is plenty of space inside the 2 which is another plus with this supermini.

The new Mazda2 is light and agile which is great for fuel consumption and for lowering your CO2 emissions. Out of all the cars entered into the World Car of the Year awards the Mazda2 received the highest environment score of them all. This car is a great choice then if you are looking for a new engine that is friendly on the environment.

The Mazda may be light but safety is not compromised. The use of high-tensile steel is the reason behind this and has resulted in the Mazda2 being awarded a 5-star NCAP rating. The light-weight Mazda also means that it is easy to drive and is great for nipping around the town.

There are lots of different specifications to choose from which allows you to personalise the car to suit your own specific needs. You can choose from the 3door or the 5door and prices start at under 9000 GBP which is great considering you are getting yourself the "best car in the world."

Insurance costs are reasonable too which shows that the Mazda2 is a good investment economically. The Mazda also comes is a range of colours from the sporty 'brilliant black' to the bright 'spirited green metallic.' Oh, and then there is the special edition Mazda2 Tamura Special Edition to choose from which is even sportier with its sports bumper, grille and side skirts.

It is not surprising that the demand for the Mazda2 has been so high considering its impressive environmental credentials combined with its stylish looks. With motorists becoming more aware of environmental issues when choosing a car the Mazda2 is a great contender and compared with other 'environmentally friendly' cars on the market the Mazda2 wins on looks hands down.

Tony is an online marketer and writer. He is currently researching Mazda and the new Mazda2.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tony_Hill

Honda Hybrid Cars 2009


Modern buyers and car owners are getting brighter through the years. That is because there are lots of car models and car makes out in car market today.

Every car brand and car model is shooting to get to the highest level of support and patronage that would sustain for a very profitable and profitable revenues and sales not just currently but also in the future.

Car buyers have become more and more demanding as years goes by. Hybrid car buyers expect car makers to address the concerns and issues they raise against the current cars they own.

Car buyers anticipate upcoming new car models to eliminate the unlikely traits and restrictions of the current car types.

It is in this manner that hybrid cars came to become the most interesting and most wanted cars of the next generation.

Giant car makers Toyota, Ford, General Motors and Honda have all at the same time embarked on a tight and pressuring race to become the best hybrid car manufacturer and distributor.

Honda cars

Out of scrap, Japans Honda has been highly productive in building their niche in the global car business. Two decades ago, Honda was nothing. It was an unknown Japanese car maker that seemed to hang around on its prototype cars.

As the years have gone by, Honda emerged hard to win the battle. Its perseverance has paid greatly, and now, it is competing head on against fellow Japanese car manufacturer Toyota in the worldwide number one spot for car producers.

In the United States alone, gross revenue of Honda hybrid cars have been constantly been on the climb in the past few years, and rivals , particularly the local based Ford and General Motors, are starting to feel the grind in their individual gross revenue.

Honda has become areal threat to other car manufacturers. There are more than enough reasons for that.

Hybrid cars

When the tight race for hybrid cars started a few years ago, Honda was among the first few car makers to have really stood up and take the subject seriously.

Over the years, Honda has made a patient, determined and capable confident team to set up R & D efforts for the brands own hybrid cars lines.

With their massive effort. Now, the most modern and most wanted hybrid car models are displaying the brand trade mark of Honda.

The Accord hybrid

One of the most popular Honda hybrid cars is the Accord hybrid vehicle that is now out in the market and loving a huge and warm support from hybrid car drivers.

Honda claims that their hybrid car is zero-emission, but at the same time, the driver and car purchaser will get to know once again the exhilaration and feeling of driving a hot high-performance car.

This hybrid car model by Honda is labeled as the makers most environmentally friendly. The costs are high, though, in the higher premium to the most priced traditional or conventional car model in the market today.

The Honda Civic Hybrid Car

Honda has recently released its 2006 Civic Hybrids. This Honda hybrid car features of a capacity to importantly reduce on gasoline consumption while at the same time savoring the same old, well-loved characteristics of the traditional Honda Civic cars.

It is understood that hybrid cars are somehow more inferior and fall well behind compared to the traditional counterparts, because maybe of the limitations rising from the consolidation of electricity and gasoline burning inside its engine.

The honda Civic hybrid boasts that it has broke that limitation. The Honda Civic hybrid is currently available on the market at not so reasonable prices.

But do not let it set a setback for you to own one of these hybrid cars. The features and benefits of owning and driving the Honda Civic hybrid for sure would outpace or break the disadvantages.

Dave Leonard writes many articles on different topics. Find out more about Hybrid Cars at http://www.thehybridcarsite.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dave_Leonard

Friday, March 6, 2009

Best and Worst of Toyota Models For 2009


Toyota Motor Sales, the company's official name, promises a "commitment to the environment."

They currently carry three lines of hybrids, the Prius, the Camry, and the Highlander SUV with more plans on the horizon to develop more fuel efficient and alternative energy vehicles that are affordable and green.

We took a look at the 2009 lineup and found the best and the worst.

The 2009 Toyota Camry - The Best

Always a customer favorite, the 2009 Toyota Camry still doesn't disappoint and you'll get a quality vehicle for your buck.

Models we looked at were the LE and SE, both with manual and automatic transmission options and both with 4 cylinder 2.4 liter engines. Their LE/SE V6 models have 3.5 liter engines offer 6 cylinders and come with automatic transmission only. All models were equipped with front wheel drive and fuel efficiency was as high as 25 miles to the gallon.

Consumers simply "love to drive" this vehicle and its redesigned drivetrain is pretty powerful. It is also one of the most comfortable and luxurious family sedans on the market and offers a simple radio design and easy to use controls.

With plenty of room for everyone, this good fuel mileage vehicle is still an easy pick for the money. The models we looked at for 2009 range in price from the base at $19,000 to the higher end models at $25,000.

The 2009 Toyota Yaris - The Worst

Consumers say there's not much that's really unique in this vehicle except for its 30 mile per gallon fuel efficiency and for its class; some think this vehicle should be cheaper.

Models in this review were the Coupe and Sedan that both have automatic or manual transmission options, 1.5 liter engines and range in price from base at 12,205 to their S models for around $15,880.

Customers didn't like the little road feel and considerable roll these models offered up and complained about the interiors; especially the placement of the cupholders and lack of storage space.

The vehicle's exterior design is better than the Echo, the vehicle it replaced, and the Yaris has an economical engine and good fuel efficiency. Still, all in all, Toyota should have put a little more design and engineering for comfort and amenities in the Yaris as well as better quality; especially in body materials used.

Summing Up Toyota

Toyota will stay on the forefront of the environment and seek ways to make affordable hybrids and most likely in the very near future. Further, Toyota keeps their prices on their current models at levels that fall into the average family budget.

With so many models to choose from, Toyota continues to climb the ladder past the Big Three in some classes. Remember to get a Toyota extended warranty when purchasing your Toyota; they will extend the manufacturer's warranty and save you money at repair time because these vehicles tend to have long lives and can endure a lot of mileage.

If you decide a Toyota is right for you, make sure to buy a Toyota extended warranty to save you big bucks on repairs when the original manufacturer's warranty runs out. An extended car warranty company, Warranty Direct has been helping consumers for 28 years and can help you save hundreds of dollars on an extended auto warranty.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Boris_Badinoff

The 1972 Pontiac Grand Am


From its introduction in late 1972 to the present day the Pontiac Grand Am has remained an inspirational automobile, spawning a variety of imitators and impostors, but none that carry off the concept with quite the same style. Of course, those early cars were very different to the present day models, and with good reason, The early 70's were heady days indeed; the oil crisis was just around the corner, although we didn't know it, and the first Grand Am models came equipped with 6.5 liter or 7.4 liter V8 motors.

This was the age of the muscle car, those big bore monsters that epitomized the American automobile industry of the day, and the Grand Am fitted perfectly into the market. The bigger engine gave a mighty 250bhp, and fans of the car still wonder what the planned, but stillborn, 310bhp version would have been like. Both four door sedan and two door coupe were built, and the Grand Am proved so popular that over 40,000 were sold in the first year of production.

One interesting feature of the Pontiac Grand Am in its original guise was the nose, a molding of special plastic that was designed to go back to its right shape in the event of a minor collision! Reclining front seats were another unusual feature, one that was seldom seen on American cars of the era. The first Grand Am models are considered the Holy Grail by collectors, and when the oil crisis began to make a mark in 1974 sales plummeted.

Indeed, the 1975 sales year saw just 10,000 Grand AMs sold, a quarter of those that had been snapped up in the first year, and GM took the decision to scrap the model there and then. There are still many original Pontiac Grand Ams on the roads, lovingly tendered and cared for by dedicated enthusiasts with a love for this revered car.


Thursday, March 5, 2009

The Dodge Sprinter


The Dodge Sprinter is one of the best full-sized vans available in the new vehicle market. It has versatility and several options that make this vehicle the perfect choice for any commercial or private purchase. The design options allow the vehicle to be designed for the maximum seating capacity of 12 individuals or for maximum hauling capacity with only the front two cab seats.

It is even available in a chassis cab, for more specialization of the vehicle. With amazing safety features and customizable options including a choice in seat covers and colors, this vehicle is a smart option for all buyers. The manufacturer's suggested retail price starts around $37,000. This not only makes this van a smart, but an affordable option.

There are several options that the Dodge Sprinter offers to make this vehicle more convenient. For instance, the Sprinter can come with an extended roof package with raises the roof to 6-feet, 4 inches. This makes it nice and roomy for passengers and provides more hauling space for cargo vans. Also, this vehicle offers lighted entry ways. This is especially convenient at night time to help passengers see the steps to get into the van.

Additional lighting includes overhead target lighting throughout the passenger and cargo space. This makes it easy for passengers to maneuver inside the van without tripping over one another and other objects on the floor. It is convenient in the cargo vans, so you do not need a flashlight to locate packages or other small cargo that you may be hauling.

When carrying several passengers or climate-sensitive cargo, it is important to have a proper ventilation and climate control system. The Dodger Sprinter comes with dual air conditioners (one for the front and one for the back) providing better comfort for both the driver and the passengers. It can also come with an under-floor foot air duct, which provides warm air to the passengers in the cargo space. This allows for better comfort of the rear passengers.

Traveling is also made easier when multi-media is available. The Dodge Sprinter comes with options to install the state-of-the-art features. Standard features include a quality AM/FM tuner radio with a single CD port and MP3 jack. Other multimedia functions include phone-in connection to hook up your cell phone with a touch pad for dialing and a mute button.

Also, an interface module is available for your iPod. Best yet, the Dodge Sprinter offers a Garmin navigation system. The nuvi 760 offers a wide, colored screen with preloaded maps for easy directions to any destination you need to go. This is the perfect device for both private and commercial use. There is no more stopping for directions with this GPS system available at your finger tips.

Other features that make the Dodge Sprinter stand out from the competition is the fuel efficient Diesel engine, which has been proven to outperform both its Chevrolet and Ford counterparts. It also has the best turning radius in its class, so it is the perfect vehicle for maneuvering on any type of road or conditions. Plus, the cargo capacity and accessibility is second to none. All of these features add up to a magnificent full-sized vehicle suited for all of your transportation needs.

About the Author

Need a magnificent full-sized vehicle suited for all of your transportation needs? Choose a van that has been proven to outperform its competition. Contact Dodge Sprinter dealers at www.sprinterdealer.net for great deals on Sprinter vans.

The Mazda Speed 3


There are cars with lots of hype on the market and then there are cars that are subtle monsters. The MazdaSpeed 3 is a huge monster with a pedestrian price that makes it an absolute steal in these tough economic times.

Okay, let's get something out of the way. The name of the car is the "MazdaSpeed 3", not "Mazda Speed 3". I have no idea why. Perhaps someone missed the space key when titling the project. It doesn't really matter, but people bring the subject up over and over.

If you could describe the perfect car these days, what would it be? You would want some serious performance, but you would want to avoid tickets. You would want something you could haul people and stuff around in, but have a blast while doing it. The MazdaSpeed 3 is all this and more.

The MazdaSpeed 3 looks extremely close to the basic Mazda 3. It is a hatchback without much refinement. You find some minor body work, a slightly lowered profile and larger 18 inch rims. The inside of the car is extremely basic in my opinion. In short, this is a car that really is not going to attract any attention except from those who see the name on the car.

This anonymity is a good thing, particularly as far as your friendly police officers are involved. Why? The MazdaSpeed 3 is basically an engine with seats. What the designers did not spend on the exterior and interior, they put into the performance. The Godzilla design has a 2.3 liter four cylinder engine with a direct-injection turbo. It produces a whopping 263 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and a ton of torque.

Driving around in the car if a fairly hilarious prospect. You can pull up too much more exotic and expensive cars at a light and then just crush them off the line. The only time you'll get any looks is when some kids who know about the car pull up next to you. It is somewhat like driving around in an old station wagon with a Ferrari engine in it. Don't get me wrong. The car doesn't look bad. The looks just don't match the performance at all.

Watching every dollar you spend is pretty much the key to life these days. The MazdaSpeed 3 performs here as well. The cost is a paltry and stunning $21,000 to $22,000 for a car that will crush most cars priced twice as much. Even better, you can write off the sales tax you pay on the purchase thanks to President Obama's stimulus bill.

In these dire times, that is a deal you are going to have a hard time beating.

Dirk Gibson writes articles about cars, auto parts and accessories for DCJAutoParts.com - your online resource for parts.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dirk_Gibson

Wednesday, March 4, 2009

The 1949 Dodge Coronet


1949 was a year of change around the halls of many American car manufacturers, Dodge included. A new age brought about new post-war body styles and a change away from the tired system of sticking the names Deluxe and Custom on pretty much everything that rolled off their assembly lines.

The Dodge Coronet was introduced along side two other trim levels named the Meadowbrook and the Wayfarer. All three cars are extremely close in appearance, so much so that to a casual observer there may appear to be no difference at all. The "major" differences involved some very minor exterior trim and style differences along with minor interior trim and options. The Coronet has the top spot in the trim level line up for this year and was available in the most variety of configurations. These different Coronet models included a two door hardtop and convertible, two different station wagons, and three versions of a four door vehicle.

All three trim levels had just one choice of engine - a 230 c.i. flat head 6 cylinder sporting a single carb and producing a whopping 103 horsepower. While the power plant may no have made much a splash the "FluidDrive", three speed transmission was of note. This tranny did not need a shift lever as it was operated by a foot pedal. As this was a high end model there were some luxury options offered such as a clock, radio, heater and turn signals.

While the initial Coronet was notable simply for it's new look and name badge the sales of this model line were significant. Over 250,000 of cars were sold in 1949 helping Dodge establish itself as one of the top auto makers in the class.

From this somewhat standard looking and handling post war production model one of the most well known muscle cars of the 1960's was born. While the Coronet badge was once the top of the line luxury trim package the names' status changed over the next decade or so.

The Dodge Coronet trim name slowly shifted from a top of the line model to a gritty muscle car as the 1950's and 60's progressed. These cars are a popular entry in car shows around the country and continue to be a popular collector car.

Will gets a kick out of old Dodge models of all kinds. Be sure to check out DodgeRestoration.com to see photos and find more information. Thanks!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Will_K.

The 1968 Dodge Super Bee


In a direct response to Plymouth's famous Road Runner the boys at Dodge produced the Super Bee. Both cars were intended to be entry level Muscle cars of the day. The first generation of this model was essentially a two door coupe Coronet with a minor few changes.

The Super Bee and Roadrunner were basically the same car from top to bottom. First of all, structurally, the Dodge was a bit heavier by about 70 pounds, roughly an inch longer and was fitted with a beefier suspension. On the exterior it was more artful and flashy with raised badges on the front and rear where the Road Runner had some basic stickers.

Some of the interior of the Super Bee, especially the dash area, was mainly right out of the Dodge Charger parts bin. When in a head to head comparison on looks the Dodge was considered the winner by most. However even with nicer appointments, real Hurst shifters, and the like the price of the Dodge model was higher than the Plymouth version, which did not help it's popularity very much.

For 1968 the choices on power plants were either a 383 V-8 at 335 horsepower or a 426 Hemi putting out about 425 horsepower. Additionally, in '69, a 440 V-8 sporting three double barrel carb's producing around 390 horsepower was added as an option. This 440 option was priced roughly in the middle of the base model and the pricey 426 version at around $450.

Perhaps the most recognizable option appeared in the form of a hood package in 1969 with two air scoops forming an air induction system. This feature was called the "Ramcharger" and this scoop system not only looked much better than the simple vents used on the Road Runner but also forced air into the carburetors. A hardtop version of the model was also introduced that same year.

While the 426 Hemi was, and still is, a well known motor at the time and one of the "big boys" of out of the box horsepower it was also shockingly expensive. The whole idea of the model was to contend in the entry level, low cost muscle car segment which explains the $3000 price tag. To get the 426 Hemi in a Super Bee you'd have to plunk down an additional $1000! Needless to say in the first two years of production less than 300 426 Hemi models were produced.

In 1970 the model got an overhaul, at least in the looks department. Updated graphics, a totally redesigned front clip, new seats, the ignition was moved to the steering column and more was done to put a fresh look on the Super Bee. The problem was the car buying public just didn't like the new look and sales numbers dropped sharply that year.

The Super Bee monkier lived on into 1971 after a switch to the Charger platform but that's another article. Also, there is a thread of Mexican Super Bees as well as a revival of the name in the 2000's as well!

Will gets a kick out of old Dodge cars and trucks of all kinds. Be sure to check out DodgeRestoration.com to see photos and find more information. Thanks!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Will_K.

Tuesday, March 3, 2009

The 1946 Dodge Power Wagon


Starting all the way back in 1934, Dodge built a truck for the US Army that featured the first ever drive train that could be easily shifted from two wheel drive to four wheel, and back again, from within the cab of the truck. At the end of World War II the company saw the opportunity to take a civilian version of their popular military trucks to market.

The Power Wagon was one of the first two production four wheel drive vehicles available to the general public when it hit showrooms in 1946. While Willy's Jeep offered the other option this famous Dodge is considered the first true four wheel drive truck on the market. Up until this point the only production 4x4's were in the mid and heavy weight segments and used for commercial or military purposes. In the 1930's there was an option for private citizens to have their two wheel drive trucks converted to four wheel through various kits and companies however this was not a widespread practice.

The initial Power Wagon model offered to market by the boys at Dodge sported a 230ci flat head six putting out 94 horses, a two speed transfer case (instead of the one speed military version) and a four speed tranny. This first model was rated as a one ton and had a PTO for running add-on equipment and attachments from the front or rear of the vehicle. The model number on this truck was WDX and used a interior trim package and cab that were almost untouched from 1939.

With all the soldiers returning from World War II, it was a popular and profitable model introduction for the car maker. Rather than go through the expensive process of designing a whole new vehicle the company took what they already had and just tweaked it a bit for civilian use. The name for the new vehicle is actually an old one. As new forms of locomotion besides the horse were introduced a wagon that was powered by a motor was called a "power wagon."

The Power Wagon was advertised and marketed as a working truck above all else. This was a truck made to pull and carry loads and to provide power to out of the way places accessed with it's 4x4 drive system. With its rugged construction, PTO and 4x4 capabilities this machine could be used in place of a tractor on the farm and was advertised as such by Dodge in their marketing material. With the introduction in 1949 of a hydraulic kit that was operable from within the cab there was a flood of attachments and add-ons that hit the market. The options were many including several different types of plows, saws, loader scoops, diggers, augers, graders and even a street sweeper.

While the Jeep brand seems to have cornered the American market on all things four wheel drive it was Dodge who invented a practical four wheel drive system all the way back in the 1930's. The Power Wagon was produced in it's initial form from 1946 through 1968 when new safety requirements finally put this famous truck out of production.

Will gets a kick out of old Dodge models of all kinds. Be sure to check out DodgeRestoration.com to see photos and find more information. Thanks!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Will_K.

The New Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder GT


Its look is, as you might imagine with any convertible, sexy. In my opinion, the Spyder GT from Mitsubishi is hotter and more fun to drive than any of the other convertibles on the market. They amped up the look with a distinctive sleek design, even with the roof retracted.

The front bucket seats fit an average size person comfortably and even have room to spare for above average. The seats have adjustable lumbar support and the steering wheel has a touch height adjustable model with audio controls. Being a convertible, the rear bench seat is typically small. Like most convertibles, they have very little leg room and comfort is not easily found. The back bench is best for short drives with smaller people. Take it from me, and my contorted passengers.

The roof, ah what can't I say about the rag top? It's powered by hydraulics that stows or erects in about 20 seconds. You will have to clasp the windshield frame yourself, as well as push a button. Personally I prefer the hands on approach; it's quick and easy, and gives you the sense of a secure connection because of the hands-on touch. A hard panel helps to hide that "bloated" look in the rear, when the roof is stowed. This gives it a clean line, and a great profile. When the roof is in use, it looks stunning. The material is a dyed acrylic cloth which is a big step up from the vinyl on some cars of the same price point. The headliner is cotton, with a natural rubber layer between it and the acrylic. On older convertible cars, the rubber, called 'butyl', was cheap and its rubber led to a ballooning or bubbling look to the convertible roof. The natural rubber, on the Spyder holds its shape and resists stretching or shrinking even during the most extreme weather.

With this great top and quiet motoring (even on concrete freeways), I found the car was relatively draft-free. The door seals are similar to more-expensive cars, adopting a short stroke mechanism. This is great for wind noise reduction, and improves the atmospheric sealing leading to better heater and air-conditioning containment.

Driving is very smooth and tight. With its short wheelbase and low curb weight, you would expect the convertible to be agile, and it was. It was surprising to find that there was a high level of neutral handling and accurate steering too. The suspension was great, smooth with great cornering.

It has a 5 speed manual transmission, which helps it get 0-60 in less than 7 seconds. It's not the fastest sporty convertible, but it is good competition to the other v4 or v6 front wheel drives in its class and price point.

Mitsubishi also retuned the exhaust system for a quieter rumble. It lost 3 horsepower because of this, but I don't personally feel the difference. It still sounds and drives sexy so don't worry.

A warning though, the v-6 is so strong at low to medium revs, it looses some grip. I suggest leaving the traction control on.

The Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder GT is a great convertible for the cost. Yes it is a high value index; it is a convertible after all. At a base value of $25,942, and a premium model being $2650 more, the Eclipse Spyder GT, is a great purchase.

About the Author

The author would like to thank Tom Harris Auto Group for allowing us to test drive the Mitsubishi Spyder from their Nanaimo BC Car Dealer Harris Mitsubishi. As well as Tom Harris Cellular for the use of a Smart Phone while visiting Vancouver Island BC.

Monday, March 2, 2009

The Ford Kuga


The general opinion amongst the green set is that 4X4s are vast, smelly, CO2 burping monstrosities that are single-handedly destroying our planet and everything we hold dear. Of course that opinion is slightly exaggerated, but it has to be said that SUVs, MPVs and all other permutations of the 4X4 aren't exactly doing Mother Nature many favours. What further confounds those against these vehicles is the manner in which they are used. Most 4X4s, though designed for rough terrain, barely see any action beyond the school run and maybe a trip to the supermarket at the weekends. This seems criminal after all the feats of engineering that have been invested into producing a prime, lean, off-roading machine. That is, until Ford unleashed the Kuga.

The Ford Kuga aims to alter these negative perceptions of the 4X4 by offering the consumer something very special indeed; ecologically sound motoring. Yes, you read that correctly, the Ford Kuga is the class leader in CO2 emissions with an almost sweet-smelling 169g/km. Add to this a combined fuel consumption of 44.1mpg and you've found yourself a large vehicle that has a conscience.

So with all this environmental consideration you would probably expect to sacrifice all the performance you would expect from a car of this size. Yet again the Ford Kuga has surprises up its sleeve. The 2.0-litre TDCi Duratorq engine has all the grunt you'll require when on rough terrain, but displays a kind of elegance when used in towns and cities. So whether you are tearing around in the dirt, or cruising to the shops, you'll find the Ford Kuga a complete joy to drive.

Interiors have always been a vehicle attribute that this manufacturer has done well and the Ford Kuga is no exception. Inside the spacious cabin you will find all the gadgets and gizmos that you would expect from Ford including Sat Nav, Bluetooth, rain sensing wipers, blue tinted glass, partial leather trim, cruise control, automatic headlights, rear view camera, dual electronic air temperature control, USB connectivity and DAB radio. With all these and the comfort of the ride, you will find the Ford Kuga a very pleasant place to be.

Where the Ford Kuga stands head and shoulders above the competition is in the looks department. Anyone with even a cursory aesthetically-charged sense in their body will be bowled over by the Kuga. It looks big, very big, but has been designed with all the grace and sophistication you would expect from a small hatchback. To put it bluntly, the fact it looks so elegant may put off some of the hardcore 4X4 owners, but it will definitely win over a whole new audience with its curvy and sporty body.

The main plus point about the Ford Kuga is that it seems to be ushering in a new age of ecological motoring and proving that to care about the environment doesn't necessarily have to be detrimental to performance. If you combine that with the fact that it is one of the best-looking new cars on the road and you can't help but feel that the Kuga will be a success. It should also open the floodgates for other manufacturers to all start thinking ecologically when designing their vehicles.

About the Author

Pete J Ridgard is a writer and a car enthusiast. He currently writes for the automotive industry. Here he discusses The New Ford Kuga

The Best Rolls Royce


Sir Frederick Henry Royce was born in 1863 to James and Mary Royce. He was the youngest of five children. His parents ran a flour mill however their business failed forcing them to move to London. Then in 1872 his father died. After only a year of formal schooling, young Royce had to drop out and start selling newspapers and delivering telegrams.

However in 1878 an aunt provided some financial support and he was able to start an apprenticeship with the Great Northern Railway at Peterborough, England. But in three years, he was out of money so he came to London and went to work for the Electric Light and Power Co. He then moved to Liverpool where he worked on street and theatre lights.

Royce was thrifty and saved his money. In 1884 he had saved twenty pounds and his friend, Ernest Claremont, had fifty pounds. They merged their savings and started the F H Royce Co. producing electrical fittings. The company was successful and in 1894 became Royce Ltd.

However the economic slump of 1902 together with competition from foreign manufacturers brought hard times. Royce purchased a second hand Decauville and began to toy with it, working out various modifications and improvements. By 1904 he was testing his own engines.

Then in mid-1904 a mutual friend introduced him to Charles Rolls. Rolls was impressed with Royce's two cylinder Royce 10. So much so, that he signed an agreement to purchase all the cars that Royce could make. They would be marketed as a Rolls Royce. Royce now had the financial backing to build a successful company. The first Rolls Royce was displayed at the Paris Salon in December 1904

The two partners were vastly different in personality and background. Rolls was formally educated in Britain's most prestigious schools whereas Royce was self-taught. Rolls was an adventurer who lived life in the fast lane while Royce was a perfectionist who believed, "Small things make perfection but perfection is no small thing." Rolls came from a wealthy family. Royce had been poor. In spite of their differences, however, the two men got along well and were close friends.

In 1906, Rolls and Royce created Rolls Royce Ltd. and Rolls was employed as Technical Manager at a salary of 750 pounds annually and four percent of all profits in excess of 10,000 pounds.

Rolls soon became bored and exchanged his position as Technical Manager for a non-executive manager so he could pursue his flying interests.

Royce was a workaholic who didn't always eat properly and became ill in 1902 and 1911. He also had major surgery in London. But he did not allow his health to interfere with his work.

The night before he died, he sat up in bed and designed an adjustable shock absorber. His motto was, "Whatever is rightly done, however humble, is noble." He was also the originator of the quotation that "The quality remains long after the price is forgotten."

The automobile he created had a "name that is synonymous with engineering excellence, style and luxury." That reputation continues until this day.


Sunday, March 1, 2009

The 1987 Chevrolet Blazer


In 1991, Alex Hardy, 37, was driving his 1987 Chevrolet Blazer through White Hall, Alabama when the Blazer's rear axle broke, freeing the right wheel assembly and sending the vehicle into a roll. When the door flew open, Hardy was thrown 30 to 40 feet through the air and suffered severe injuries that left him permanently paralyzed.

Attorneys representing Hardy filed suit against General Motors. They alleged that the Blazer's faulty door latches contributed to Hardy's injuries, and that GM knowingly sold Blazers with defective door latches that opened in accidents like the one owned by Hardy.

GM denied the allegations, arguing Hardy was to blame because he had been drinking and fell asleep when his Blazer rolled over. Witnesses for GM testified that Hardy flew through a window because he was not wearing a seat belt. GM insisted that their "Type 3" door latch was safe and met all federal safety standards. They further claimed that the rate of side-door ejections from its vehicles involved in fatal accidents was .77 per 100 occupants. Finally, GM experts testified that Hardy's door latch was only slightly damaged, indicating that it had not come open during the accident as he contended.

"Once again, a giant automaker tried to avoid the facts by clouding the issue," noted nationally recognized auto defects attorney, John Bisnar. "Internal GM documents-including a 1982 study estimating such latches could fail some 18,000 times a year-underscored the faulty nature of GM's Type 3 door latch. This latch was installed on some 40 million GM vehicles beginning in 1978. An updated version featuring a support plate was only installed on some 1987 models. Unfortunately, GM opted not to spend the estimated $916 million needed to replace all of the latches. It chose instead to issue a 'quiet recall' where dealers were instructed to replace the latch without telling their customers. Regrettably, there are still some 30 million vehicles on the road that are equipped with these latches."

An Alabama jury awarded $50 million in compensatory damages for Mr. Hardy and his family and $100 million in punitive damages against the automaker for what the jury determined was GM's "guilty knowledge" of the defective latches. This was one of the largest ever verdicts against GM.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration began an investigation into what GM knew about the apparent defects in the door latches. A former administrator of the Federal agency said it often took aggressive civil litigation like the Hardy case to unearth evidence and documents that were otherwise hidden from Federal regulators.

"This verdict revealed the reprehensible fact that GM had known for at least 14 years that Americans would be injured and killed as a result of its poorly designed door latch, a part that had failed in accident after accident," observed Brian Chase of the nationally recognized auto defects law firm of Bisnar Chase. "Mr. Hardy's action in taking GM to court is an example of our justice system at work. The jury award is America's message to GM-in this case, quite a substantial message-that their failure to act was not acceptable. Hopefully, this lawsuit will help convince the automaker to respond effectively to known safety defects to prevent further injuries to its customers."

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The 1993 Nissan Pathfinder


In 1997, Andrea Alvarez was driving her 1993 Nissan Pathfinder on a highway in Broward County, Florida. When Alvarez inadvertently veered off the road into the center median, she steered to re-enter the roadway, but lost control and rolled over onto the driver's side. During the accident, Alvarez suffered a life altering injury-her left arm was amputated at the elbow.

The Alvarezes filed suit against Nissan, alleging that a design defect caused the Nissan Pathfinder to be unreasonably dangerous and that Nissan's failed in its duty to use reasonable care in the design, manufacture, assembly, distribution, and/or sale of its vehicle. Nissan, it was alleged, was also negligent in that it failed to give proper warnings to car buyers concerning the vehicle's dangerous susceptibility to "rollovers."

The Alvarezes presented expert testimony, including various tests that supported their contention that the Pathfinder was unreasonably dangerous. Nissan countered, presenting its own expert witnesses and evidence that the vehicle did not have a design defect. The automaker insisted that Alvarez caused the accident by incorrectly steering the Pathfinder, saying that no SUV can be designed so that it does not overturn just from steering.

Alvaraz's attorneys insisted that vehicles should and can be designed not to overturn solely based on a driver's steering while on a flat, level, paved roadway. Nissan claimed that the Pathfinder's wheels were off the road when Alvaraz turned over. The plaintiff maintained that she tipped over while on the road and that all four tires were in contact with the road when she turned over.

"Nissan"s own engineers contradicted the automakers assertion," noted nationally recognized auto defects attorney, John Bisnar. "A paper presented at a conference by Japanese Nissan engineers in the 1970s included an experimental safety project that stated the Nissan vehicle 'has over-turning immunity.' The paper proved that Nissan was aware that a vehicle could be designed so it wouldn't roll over based on how it was driven."

Plaintiffs' experts, including an engineer and a test-driver, proved that the 1993 Pathfinder could roll over based on how it was driven. They presented their own rollover tests. Going a step further, they modified the SUV with a wider track and a lowered center of gravity, which during tests, revealed that the SUV did not roll over.

Although the jury found there was no design defect, it did find that Nissan was negligent in its "failure to warn," which does not require a finding of design defect. The trial court agreed with the Alvarezes. In addition, the jury found that Andrea Alvarez was comparatively negligent and assigned her 49 percent fault and Nissan 51% fault. Alvarez was awarded damages of $3,057,000 and her husband was awarded $415,000. The trial court entered a Final Judgment in accordance with the jury verdict.

"How many serious, life-altering injuries must the motoring public endure before a car maker finally decides to adequately warn its publics about the dangers of its SUVs?" exclaimed Brian Chase of the nationally recognized auto defects law firm of Bisnar Chase. "The Alvarezes' action in taking Nissan to court is an example of our justice system at work. The jury's award is America's message to Nissan that their failure to act was not acceptable. Hopefully, this lawsuit will help convince Nissan to properly warn customers about the potential risks in driving rollover-prone SUVs.

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