Autos: Do You Own You?

Autos: Do You Own You? 12:00 PM, September 1

Slavery - the idea that one man can own another man - was supposedly abolished by the 13th Amendment in 1865. But laws continue to be passed that, in effect, assert the ownership of the state over our persons. We're not picking cotton or being whipped - but we are being harassed, fined - and even jailed - for defying laws which, at their core, are based on the idea that the state has a claim over our hides.

Consider seat belt laws that empower the police to pull you over and issue you a ticket for not being buckled-up. You haven't harmed anyone - or even threatened to. You might hurt yourself, it's true. But so will being 50 pounds overweight and (for now) no one's being pulled over for that.

It's pointless to deny the merits of wearing a seat belt - just as it is equally pointless to deny the benefits of eating a low-fat diet, maintaining ideal body weight and exercising regularly. The point is not whether a given action or decision is "good for you." It is who should have the final say - you or some busybody with a gun and a badge whose time might be better spent looking for, you know, criminals.

When we turn 18 we're adults as a matter of law and are supposed to be masters of our own destinies. The right to choose (for good or bad) the course our lives will take is the bedrock basic principle of independent adulthood; take that right away and we are reduced to perpetual training wheels - no matter our chronological age.

Not wearing a seat belt may be "unsafe" - but it's not nearly as bad as the suffocating state-enforced infantilism that we get when cops are used not to protect honest citizens from the violence and fraud of dishonest citizens - but to make us do things "for our own good," as if we were little kiddies and they our parents. Even worse, this "for our own good" (or "safety's sake") stuff is purely arbitrary. It all depends on whose ox is being gored.

Not wearing a seat belt can be attacked and punished - but there are far greater threats to safety and well-being. For example, how come it's ok to exercise choice when it comes to diet and exercise - but not when it comes to seat belts?

Perhaps it's because so many of us are overweight, sedentary - and eat like Elvis did during his "husky" period. So, it's ok to be an arteriosclerotic, pre-diabetic, massive health care cost incurring tub of lard - but it's a violation of modern PC orthodoxies not to "buckle up for safety."

It's funny - but the example reveals the hypocrisy and arbitrariness of the way our system works. And how it decides who gets hassled.

After all, there is a clear and definite link between obesity and a steady diet of greasy fast food and an early death from heart disease or cancer. It is an objective "safety" issue with clear ramifications for the general public - since we all get to pay more for health care/insurance and so on because of the totally unnecessary costs imposed by unhealthy, self-destructive fatties who insist on eating themselves into angioplasty.

On the other hand, there is only a potential risk - and a small one, on individual terms - involved with not buckling up. The odds are you won't have an accident - in which case, the seat belt is irrelevant. But when you eat and live like The King - the physical repercussions are much less theoretical. Twenty years of soda pop, french fries and double cheeseburgers will absolutely leave their mark on you; not wearing a seat belt for 20 years may not cost you a thing. No wreck, no problem. And millions of people go their entire lives without ever being involved in a serious accident. Not many people make it through a lifetime of overeating and abusing their bodies without definite consequences.

So, if the measure is going to be "societal costs" - shouldn't we be ticketing weighty waddlers? But I don't support that. The core issue - whether it's what you eat or whether you want to wear a seat belt - is simple: Who owns you?

If my person is my property, then it follows I have the right to use it as I please - so long as no direct harm to others is involved. Not wearing my seat belt falls into that category - doesn't it?

Some might say not wearing a seat belt means I won;t be able to control the car in an accident-type situation where evasive driving maneuvers are necessary. Ok. But the truth is the skill set of the average driver in this country is so low that the concept of "evasive driving maneuvers" is laughable on its face. The typical low-skill American driver is much more likely to freeze, scream - and await the inevitable. Or do the wrong thing. Very few drivers in this country have had professional driver training and are capable of executing accident avoidance maneuvers. It'd be nice - but it's just not there. So that issue's a non-sequitur.

There is the legalistic argument that the roads are public property - and driving a privilege subject to regulation. Fair enough. But so are sidewalks - and fat people can be seen lumbering down them in cities and towns all across the country, brazenly wolfing down their Angus triples and 64 oz sodas without fear of being ticketed. How come the overfed are permitted to flaunt their self-destructive behavior in public, on public sidewalks free of any fear of being ticketed - but it's open season on unbuckled motorists?

The answer is: We're a land of self-deluding busybodies and hypocrites. So long as our sacred cow isn't gored, we don't mind lancing our neighbor's cow. As with the so-called "war on drugs" - which targets some drugs (pot) but not others (alcohol) - it is a matter of laws blowing with the winds of whim. Being fat and unhealthy - or jabbering on a cell phone - is considered ok ... nowithstanding the demonstrable threat to the safety and well-being of "society" both those things represent. But fail to buckle up for safety - and it's a $100 fine.

My first hope is we can repeal all this lifestyle enforcement nonsense - and leave the cops to fight crime. But if we can't have that, I'll settle for fairness. If I have to buckle up for safety - for my own good - then I want to see every person who is sedentary required to show proof of working out at least three days a week. And every person who is carrying more than 20 pounds of lard issued a piece of paying' paper for each pound of excess blubber.

In addition to radar guns and handcuffs, we should issue each cop a set of body fat calipers and a blood pressure/cholesterol meter that could be used at roadside health checkpoints.Fair is fair, after all.

Read more »

The Backseat Driver's Companion

The Backseat Driver's Companion

People who like to drive rarely enjoy being driven - and are often tempted to second-guess the driving of others when not behind the wheel themselves. Usually, it's not a good idea. Here's a Backseat Driver's Companion - a short list of Do's and Don'ts to follow when someone else is behind the wheel:

Hold your tongue

You may not like the way someone else drives; maybe they don't notice the light's turned green as fast you might; maybe they're more hesitant than you might be pulling into traffic or merging. But unless there's an immediate danger you're pretty sure the driver hasn't noticed (a kid on a bike about to run across the road, for instance) proper etiquette is to remain silent, even if it makes you stew inside. When you're back in your own car and behind the wheel again, you can drive how you like. Hectoring those who don't drive as you might isn't going to change their ways; it's just going to create stress and may even make them drive unsafely.

Don't second-guess

Maybe you do "know a better way" to get across town - or "just know" the car will fit in that parking spot up ahead that looks pretty tight. Ultimately, it's not your call. It's fine to give advice if it's asked for. Just don't hector and nag imperiously. You may in fact be a much better driver, know the quickest way to get across town and could easily parallel park the car in that tight space up ahead. But since you're not behind the wheel, it really doesn't matter. Grin and bear it. Everyone will be the happier for it.

Abide by "House Rules"

That means (within reason) doing what the driver asks. It's his car, he gets to lay down the law. If the driver asks you to wear your seatbelt, for example, it's right and proper to do so without complaining - even if you prefer not to wear a seatbelt in your own vehicle. Same goes for smoking, eating and drinking. If it's not your car and you're not driving, deference is the order of the day.

Don't create distractions

It's unsafe to yak on a cell phone while driving because your attention's not fully focused on the task of driving the car. For the same reason, passengers who distract the driver can be just as dangerous - or more so, since the driver has little or no control over how passengers behave. You can turn off a cell phone; it's virtually impossible to "turn off" a passenger creating a distraction in the back seat. This is a problem for teenagers and young drivers especially. Put a bunch of kids in the backseat - and a kid up front in the driver's seat - and the odds of a distraction-induced accident go up several notches. If animals are on board, keep them under control. A dog running amok inside a car is another great way to set up a tragic accident-via-distraction.

Offer to share the driving

On longer trips, it's courteous to make it known you're willing to help with the driving - if the driver wants a break. This should be done in a non-confrontation way; don't say "I'll take over now." Say something along the lines of "Whenever you feel like taking a break, let me know. I'd be happy to drive some of the way." So long as you're not offering a critique of the other person's driving - and implying you could do a better job - the offer will usually be taken in the right spirit. And there won't be a potentially dangerous test of wills: You waiting for the driver to get tired and slip up (so you can point out the slip-up); the driver adamantly refusing to admit he's getting tired and letting you spell him - just to prove he's a better driver than you think he is.

Read more »

SR-71 Mustang from Roush and Shelby 2010

Mustang SR-71 (S to R to Shelby and Roush) was built at Roush facility in Livonia, Michigan, with the participation and input from all parties involved. Inspired from the SR-71 "Blackbird" reconnaissance plane and a unique sophisticated ever produced, and is still admired by many people. SR-71 Mustang will also take the features that will be unique and privileges. Until the signature embroidery Jack Roush and Carroll Shelby at the exclusive RECARO racing seats. Steering wheel, indicators, navigation screen also been designed to be seen was in the cockpit of a jet fighter.

The car is powered 5.0-liter V8 engine Ti-VCT with a new aluminum block, and supercharge 3.2 liter Whipple Twin Screw. As a supporting performance of wild, adapted calibration Ford Racing and Roush intake. SR-71 Mustang will appear with a doff of non-production of paint and silver as smocks special treatment as a gesture of SR-71. The application itself is designed with a special roof glass roof models along with unique graphics, not forget the muffler and tips made by Ford Racing.

Judging by the legs there dwells Track Pack SVT wheels that are present in color 19-inch custom ring in front and 20 inches in the rear. For additional information that the SR-71 Mustang will be auctioned on Thursday, July 29 next, starting at 7:30 PM at the EAA Museum in Oshkosh, Wisconsin

Read more »

G Power X6 Typhoon RS Concept

With the V10 configuration X6 Typhoon RS G POWER once again presents a car that can only be described with superlatives. X6 M standard with twin turbo engine that has been supported by the power unit is impressive, but the standard engine BMW has not been able to evoke emotion in the same manner as in the machine M POWER. For this reason the G POWER engineers decided to adapt them to M X6 with a breath taking performance of Formula 1 technology.

A powertrain / engine proper and in accordance with the philosophy of G POWER is on about speed. A high-revving engine with throttle response, immediately showed his character by 5.0 l V10 engine unit of power produced by M GmbH. "The purpose behind the application V10 X6 G POWER Typhoon RS main is besides designed to build a sport utility vehicle the world's fastest intended also to create a vehicle V10 interesting with the power unit M GmbH's", added director G POWER's Christian Stober and Zoran Zorneke talking about the technical specifications X6 M is the ultimate.

Like all vehicles built by the factory complex G POWER, 100% oriented towards customer needs, consider the interior, instrumentation and strict limits on the amount of each edition is the key to the company's thinking. Circle G POWER V10 client X6 cyclone main hospitals have been published clearly aiming for the fans who love the power unit is unfortunately no longer available in the future.


Commitment like that is always embedded in it until bold claim if X6 G V10 RS POWER typhoon as the world's fastest SUV. Running from 0 to 100 km / h requires only 4.2 seconds. In less than 13.0 seconds this extraordinary SUV had run up to 200 km. Peak speed of more than 330 km / hr. So that the owner of one of the five X6 units Hurricane G POWER RS V10s available in the world can enjoy the fastest speed with a series of comprehensive safety features, shaped front and rear spoiler, trimmed for maximum aerodynamic efficiency that provides downforce. G POWER looks elegant with curved wings at the front and rear wheels to make room for 23-inch G-POWER Silverstone RS 11Jx23 details 12Jx23 in front and behind. Alloy coatings in pairs round of Michelin tires to ensure optimal traction and control of the SUV driving this sport.


Bringing G POWER V10 RS X6 cyclone from its peak back to zero velocity is a task of high-tech brake system equipped with a 410 mm carbon ceramic brake discs and six piston calipers. This system allows slowdown better than the pull of gravity, while at the same time this system provides weight savings of 50% compared with the standard brake system.

Read more »

How to Get a Good Deal on an Expensive Car

How to Get a Good Deal on an Expensive Car

While the sticker price of a new luxury car is always going to be higher than the sticker price of an economy car, you may be able to negotiate a better deal on the luxury car. Reason? For one, there's less profit margin built into the price of an economy car - or even a mid-priced car, for that matter. If the MSRP sticker price is, say, $15,000 - the dealer's cost (what he paid the manufacturer for the vehicle) is probably not much lower than that figure. If he sells cars for less than he paid to acquire them, he probably won't be in business very long.

Even with factory-to-dealer rebates - which compensate the dealer for a "below invoice" sales price - there's usually not more than a couple thousand dollars' worth of "wiggle room" on the bottom line price of the typical economy car.

But with luxury cars, it's a different story. The MSRP sticker price you see is usually pretty well-padded - often by as much as 15-20 percent or more. This is especially true of luxury SUVs - which are typically higher-trim versions of non-luxury counterparts (and thus, less expensive to build than a luxury car that does not share a chassis and other major parts with an already-existing "cousin").

For example, the Lincoln Navigator SUV is basically a higher-trim/better-equipped version of the Ford Expedition SUV. There may be as much as $10,000 profit margin built into the sticker price of such a vehicle - and thus, a great deal more "wiggle room" to negotiate a lower price.

Other factors that make it possible to get a better deal on certain luxury-brand vehicles include:

Current market position

Some brands have to be more aggressive with incentives such as cash back offers, rebates, special low-rate financing, etc. in order to lure customers away from competitors.

General Motors' Cadillac division is an excellent "case in point." After several years of declining sales and decreasing market share, it has completely revamped its entire model lineup to more effectively compete with brands like BMW, Lexus and Audi, etc. But in order to get BMW, Lexus and Audi buyers to take a look at its latest offerings, Cadillac has had to put some very tempting offers on the table - including (at the time of this writing) as much as $5,000 cash back on the XLR retractable hardtop roadster and $4,000 cash back on the full-size DTS sedan. Special low-rate financing deals are also available. (For more information about GM's latest offers, go here).

Lincoln is another brand that is currently struggling to rebuild its market position - and is thus offering some great deals on various models, including (at the time of this writing) as much as $6,500 discounts on the full-size Town Car sedan, special lease deals on the entry-luxury MKZ sedan ($339 per month for 39 months) and up to $3,000 cash back on the Navigator luxury SUV. For more information about Lincoln's latest offers, go here).

Chrysler's troubles can work to consumers' benefit, too. The struggling automaker is offering $3,500 cash back on the 300-series luxury sedan, including versions equipped with the Hemi V-8 engine. (Info on current offers may be found here).

The flip side of this is that brands that are doing well - Lexus, for example - are less likely to be interested in haggling over price. They don't need to, so they don't.

Trendiness/popularity/newness

Part of what drives the price of a luxury car (up or down) is its perceived exclusivity; thus, models that have just come onto the market (or which have just been substantially updated) will typically have less-negotiable prices. The dealer tells you what you'll pay - take it or leave it. If you don't buy, the person behind you probably will. Thus, the sticker price of the just-launched hybrid version of the Lexus LS sedan is not one you'll be likely to haggle much over.

On the other hand, when a given model has been out for awhile - or there's a newer/updated version on deck - the "exclusivity factor" wanes and the price suddenly becomes more negotiable. For example, Infiniti's G35 luxury-sport sedan/coupe has been significantly updated for the 2008 model year - and '08 models are becoming available at dealerships. However, it's still only halfway through the '07 model year - and there are plenty of 2007 G35s still awaiting buyers. You can be sure that the deal on an '07 G35 will be more favorable than the terms you'd be able to wrangle on an '08.

Here's where it pays to keep abreast of new model changeovers by reading industry trade publications, such as Automotive News (www.carmild.com), as well as car enthusiast's magazines such as Road & Track, Car & Driver and so on.

Footnote: Some of the best deals you'll find are on luxury cars (and brands) trying to establish themselves as "luxurious." Perhaps the best case-in-point here is VW's Phaeton ultra-luxury sedan. This model - equipped with a 12-cylinder engine and every bit the equal, in terms of amenities, features, power and refinement, etc. of equivalent BMWs, Audis and Mercedes-Benzes - was heavily discounted relative to those cars simply because VW isn't perceived as a "premium" brand.

The same is true of brand such as Hyundai - which will soon offer a V-8 powered high-end luxury sedan (in 2008) designed to compete with top-tier Japanese models from Lexus , Acura and so on. But Hyundai will be forced to offer much better deals in order to get buyers to take a look - even though its new luxury sedan (if prior experience is prologue) is sure to be a very credible alternative to the mainline, already-established Japanese luxury car brands.

Slightly used

Depreciation affects almost every new car, but luxury cars tend to suffer the most because their initial value is more inflated. It is not uncommon for a luxury car to lose 20-30 percent of its "sticker price value" during its first year on the road. Thus, great deals are available on slightly used luxury cars - which will still look and drive just like brand-new examples and in most cases still have the majority of their factory warranties in effect.

A side benefit here is that any "bugs" (for example, minor electrical glitches with complex systems such as DVD players, GPS units, electrical accessories/gadgets, etc.) will likely have already cropped up and been dealt with before you acquire the vehicle. Modern luxury cars are enormously complex and it is not uncommon for brand-new models to be plagued by minor (but still annoying) "little things" during the first few months of ownership. Buying a car after someone else has dealt with these gremlins can save you hassle as well as money.

Generally, domestic-brand luxury cars depreciate faster (and more precipitously) than import brand-luxury cars - so that's where you'll find some of the best values. But this is not always true. And within a given brand, some models will hold their value much better than others. A good way to research depreciation trends is to check current lease rates on the cars you're interested in. The monthly payment on a lease is in part based on the so-called "residual value" - i.e., what the car is expected to be worth at the end of the lease period. Cars (and brands) with lower residual values are expected to lose their value more quickly, etc.

Or simply shop around; you'll very quickly discover which makes/models of luxury car are better (or worse) values a year or two after they leave the showroom.

Read more »

Skoda Joyster version will be released soon

Skoda launches Joyster Concept at Paris Motor Show and is scheduled to be launched in 2012. The possibility of this car will compete with Toyota iQ, Peugeot 107 and similar to the super-mini MPV Roomster. Joyster equipped with features that resemble the style of glass planes and bold chrome grille. Inside, the newcomer is equipped with a docking station for a laptop, internet connection, the chair can be turned into blankets and removable storage pouch on the back of the chair. Powerful LED headlights and a pair of folding chairs in the back that can be used as a picnic supplies. We want to build cars with the latest technology and youth through practical solutions "said chief designer Jens Manske."

Joyster is a car that uses front engine, front wheel drive setup. Although details have not been confirmed power train, Skoda's new model is expected to be offered in two choices of engine variants, namely, three-cylinder petrol and diesel 1.0-liter three-cylinder 1.2. In terms of CO2 emissions, is expected to come up with Skoda Joyster

80g/km output for diesel and less than 100g/km for the petrol. We can officially confirm that this concept will go into production and soon became the cheapest model in its class, because we will sell at a price of about Rp. 103 900 000, -.


Last weekend, German carmaker Volkswagen has also announced the revival of Lupo's name with a new small car that will be the vehicles that entered the market in spring 2012, along with Skoda Joyster

Read more »

Honda CR-Z Concept Car is Environmentally Friendly

Honda is always innovating to deliver environmentally friendly solutions in accordance with the needs of modern society. Honda CR-Z is the first car that combines sporty concept with eco-friendly hybrid technology. The car that has become one of the best seller in the world to be the main display arena IIMS Honda in 2010 which lasted from July 23 until August 1 next. Honda CR-Z combines three driving modes are Sports, Econ and normal controls. For Econ mode, can be activated when the car drove in a constant state of making engines that power flowed only produce IMA battery so that fuel consumption can be minimized.

To view affairs need not doubt. Sporty impression is very strong, this can be seen from the wide wheelbase and wide front grille made. View more sporty feel when the legs of 17-inch Alloy wheels supported MacPherson front suspension and H-torsion beam in back. For business pacemaker kitchen, Honda CR-Z brought the 1500cc i-VTEC engine equipped with a hybrid-electric system, Intregrated Motor Assist (IMA). Kitchen Performance CR-Z hybrid pacemaker capable of producing maximum power 122 HP at 6000 RPM rotation.


Besides displaying the Honda CR-Z as the solution of environmental vehicles, Honda is also showing off a concept car that Honda's New Small Car Concept. The car was first introduced at Auto Expo 2010 in New Delhi, India. The car carrying the concept of Efficient Exterior Eneretic was featured with a dynamic front fenders and wide platform with a low gravity point. The draft provided to make this car can accommodate five passengers inside

Read more »

2011 Toyota Alphard with Queens of The Magical

2011 Toyota Alphard with Queens of The Magical, Dream land .. Queens of The Magical place on their find quality time with the Kings. A wonderous Mystery Nowhere in sleeping beauties smile on their sleep through a thousand miles of sweet kisses.

Where an adventurous child, WHO Unable to sit in one place, has the freedom to fly. A kingdom Nowhere rulse a king and his court back-seat knight. Thus, it is in the world of Alphard Nowhere Every dream abides.

Read more »

The Engine's Out Back, Chief! The 1960-'69 Chevy Corvair

The Engine's Out Back, Chief! The 1960-'69 Chevy Corvair

Here's an irony of automotive history to ponder: Ralph Nader never actually drove a Corvair - the car he savaged as "unsafe at any speed." Too bad for him - and, of course, for Chevrolet - since he never got to appreciate the many virtues of the pugnacious but ultimately doomed little car his name will forever be associated with.

Though I was born too late to enjoy these cars when they were new, I eventually acquired a '64 Monza coupe in the mid-1990s. I wasn't looking for one; it just happened to cross my path at the right time. The car's oddball layout and low price piqued my interest. Corvairs were (and still are) very affordable as far as classic American cars of the '60s go. I picked mine up for $2,200 - almost exactly what it sold for when new.

The car had all the goodies: 110-horsepower twin-carb six-cylinder engine with a four-speed on the floor; Daytona Blue exterior with white parchment interior. Cross-flagged emblem on the louvered "trunk" where the boxer six resided. I loved the low-back bench seats (this was pre-federal safety regulations) that let you rest your right arm across the top as you drove. Just a speedo, fuel gauge and a couple of idiot lights. Nothing more needed.

My '64 did have one other thing, though - a transverse rear leaf spring that was installed on all Corvairs that year to patch the sometimes tricky handling characteristics the earlier (1960-'63) cars had become infamous for.

Though originally conceived by GM as an economy car, the sporty-looking Corvair (especially Monza 900 coupes) had quickly developed a following as a "poor man's Porsche" - and was sometimes driven beyond its limits by drivers who didn't know theirs.

Problems arose when the car was pushed hard into a turn and the driver lifted off the throttle mid-corner. Like early Porsches, which also shared the Corvair's swing-axle rear suspension layout, the result was sometimes sudden, even violent oversteer. If it got out of hand, the front and rear ends would swap positions, often several times in quick succession. Unlike the swing-axle Porsches of the era, however, the typical Corvair owner was not an experienced "shoe" who knew the importance of not lifting off the gas mid-corner.

Tire inflation pressures were also critical; too much (or not enough) air exacerbated the underlying chassis issues. Porsche drivers were probably more attuned to such things. The average Corvair driver wasn't.

The total number of wrecks was not enormous - especially relative to the large number of Corvairs (several hundred thousand) in circulation. But a few high-profile ones - such as the death of comic Lenny Bruce - set in motion a juggernaut of bad press that Nader eventually rode long and hard. He lives off the fumes to this very day.

GM did take steps to address the problem - before Nader went on his tear, it's worth pointing out. In 1962, for example, a Heavy Duty suspension option was added to the roster of options. It included stiffer springs and shorter rear axle straps; a front anti-sway bar also became available.

It was in '64, however, that major changes were undertaken - including the adoption of the transverse-mounted rear leaf that largely corrected the earlier cars' "tuck-in" problems when the driver lifted off the gas mid-corner.

For 1965, the entire car was revamped - with a sleek new body penned by Bill Mitchell (who also did the 1967 Camaro) and a true four-wheel, all-independent suspension very similar to the one used in the Corvette.

This second generation Corvair was even better than the original; it had matured into a genuine American Porsche that was among the best-handling cars of its time. Buyers could order a 'Vair with a wild-looking four-carb intake or in turbocharged Spyder form and packing 150-plus horsepower. For a car that only weighed about 2,300 pounds, the result was snappy performance.

But the rise of V-8 muscle cars and the seemingly endless flow of cheap, hi-test leaded premium fuel shunted the six-cylinder Corvair to the sidelines - while the whispers and lawsuits and investigations about its being "unsafe at any speed" tarred its reputation irreparably.1969 was the final year - when fewer than 3,000 cars left the factory.

It was a sad ending for a truly innovative car. Had it appeared as a brand-new model just a few years later, in the early '70s - when the gas pinch began to take hold - it might have been a huge success. It was not to be. Meanwhile, I have nothing but kind words for the Corvair.

My '64 ran well, only broke down once (when the fuel pump failed) and, despite what Nader argued, wasn't an evil-handling death trap. With modern radials, in fact, the thing could run circles around its overweight, over-boosted, front-biased '60s-era sheetmetal cousins. And it's just so ... different. People who have never seen one before are startled by its rear-engined layout with the improbable-looking fan belt that seems to bend at a 90 degree angle as it runs from the generator to the boxer six's crankshaft pulley. (The urban legend about Corvairs throwing belts is just that, by the way.)

The heater worked brilliantly, too - unlike an old VW Beetle's, which either didn't or smothered you with noxious fumes if it did.

There were a few niggles - such as the intricate throttle linkage for the dual-carb intake, which had to be set exactly right for the carbs to be perfectly synched. On a 40-year-old car, this can take some time. Also, the thermostatic bellows that controlled the opening and closing of the flapper doors central to the cooling system of the 'Vair's air-cooled engine sometimes didn't work quite right. I had to prop one of them open for awhile until I got it sorted out properly.

But all old cars have their bugs - and taken as a whole, the Corvair's were pretty trivial. Nothing that kept me from driving the car often - and trusting it to keep on running, even on fairly long trips that put me far out of range of tools and the security of my garage.

Whether it's a Plain Jane 700 sedan or Lakewood wagon, Greenbrier van, sporty Monza 900 or turbocharged Spyder - Corvair ownership is a unique experience not to be missed. Today, they are also one of the few classic American cars of the 1960s you can still acquire for about the cost of a three or four-year-old used Corolla or Civic.

If you come across one for sale, have a look. And don't believe the badmouthing you may have heard. Remember: Nader never even drove the car he built a career savaging.

Read more »

2011 Hyundai Concept RB is born

2011 Hyundai Concept RB is born, Hyundai Verna future is born at Moscow International Motor Show 2010 in the form of RB Concept Hyundai. Hyundai Verna countenance RB Concept presents a modern design similar to a coupe (coupe-like). The characters stand out from the prospective Hyundai Verna is sexy curves, huge hexagonal grille and fog lamps shaped letter "L".

Behind the front hood, there are two engine choices Gamma CVVT (continuously variable Valve Timing), 1.4 liters and 1.6 liters. Each capable of generating power and 107 hp and 124 hp. Both the kitchen implanted automatic transmission mated with a four-speed and five-speed manual. Six airbag safety system installed. Have also been installed on the wheel audio control buttons.


Hyundai will produce RB in Russia in January 2011 and sold in spring 2011. RB Concept is built on a platform Hyundai Accent / Verna. Saint Petersburg Hyundai factory assigned the task of assembling this candidate Verna. Hyundai also revealed that starting spring 2011 Verna will be sold to countries like India which is growing, possibly Indonesia. Especially for the Indian market, Hyundai Verna will experience a change in the suspension, adjust to road conditions.

Tag of Russia offered to the market, estimated at about USD 12 900 or USD 125 million

Read more »

Three of the Most Dangerous Hazards For Drivers

Three of the Most Dangerous Hazards For Drivers

Driving is one of the most dangerous things that we do regularly. Statistically it is more dangerous than flying a plane, riding a quad bike and walking through a rough neighborhood at night. The problem with driving is that it is a complicated activity which is hard in itself, but when you add factors such as driver distractions, road conditions and other road users it becomes exponentially more hazardous. To help you focus better here are the most important things to look out for.

Cyclists - The problem with cyclists is that they have a right to be on the road as well. They go a lot slower than every other vehicle on the road and can be extremely unpredictable. While there are laws to stop cyclists from cycling without lights at night, with a mechanically unsound bike and from cycling while intoxicated, these are often not enforced. This makes not only these inconsiderate cyclists a danger to traffic and themselves, but even perfectly sober seasoned cyclists can make sudden decisions which cause an unexpected unpredictable hazard.

Solution: Give them a wide berth at all times.

Mobile Phones - Even hands free phones are a major distraction to drivers. Having a conversation no matter how mundane takes up part of your brain's attention meaning that you don't have your full concentration at hand in case something unexpected occurs. Of course it is illegal to use a phone while driving, it is however, not illegal to use a hands free kit. Also, as phones get more and more complicated and have internet access etc, it is more tempting than ever to take the risk of using it while driving.

Solution: Leave it in your pocket. Stop the car if you have to take a call. No call is worth more than your, or someone else's, life.

The Dark - The majority of accidents happen during the hours of darkness. Not only is it harder for you to see everything that is going on outside of your vehicle, it is also harder for people to see you. You are more likely to come across intoxicated drivers, cyclists and pedestrians at night also. Despite all cars having to have lights by law, and roads being increasingly well kept and lit, no matter what happens, it will always be dangerous to drive at night.

Solution: While there is no solution aside from not driving at night, one law in the US could help. In some states driving law states that when you pass your driving test you have to wait a significant period of time before you can drive at night. This may save a few lives if enforced everywhere.

Sometimes getting someone else to do the driving when you are tired or preoccupied can be the best choice. For example, if you are on holiday in Belfast then using one of the many Belfast cabs would be a good way to get around, plus you can have a drink with your dinner! No doubt Belfast taxi firms will know the road system a lot better as well, a bit of local knowledge can avoid the stresses of travelling round an unfamiliar city.

Read more »

The Truth About Car Colors | New Car Guide for 2011 | Driven: 2011 Ford Edge | Spied! 2013 BMW M6 | Sexiest Cars Under $35,000

August 25, 2010 The Truth About Car Colors | New Car Guide for 2011 | Driven: 2011 Ford Edge | Spied! 2013 BMW M6 | Sexiest Cars Under $35,000

Car Colors: They're More Than Skin Deep
What your car's paintjob says about you — and can it get you ticketed?

Henry Ford certainly made things easy when he stipulated that customers for his rugged Model T could have any color they wanted, so long as it was black. Today's car buyer faces a vastly more complicated decision-making process when choosing the paintjob for his or her new vehicle.

There's no way of knowing whether Mr. Ford would have approved of the eight colors currently available with the 2011 Fiesta SE subcompact sedan. Our guess is "Tuxedo Black" might have won his approval — although "Lime Squeeze Metallic" would probably have cost someone his job.

Read more »

Best Cover For Your car

Talking about the protection of our vehicles, of course, we would think to all parts, not just for the engine only, which is the main to the notice, view from the outside, If your car look dull, dirty, or even rusty, this certainly does not make you feel comfortable to use, what else for the young child, would feel uncomfortable to be brought out

The main cause, damage to the exterior of your car, like the dull, the paint is damaged, or dirty is the environmental influence, rain, heat, dust, and many things that will ruin the appearance of your car, you need a Car cover, this is a tool designed to protect your ride, from the heat, rain, when you do not use it, the car cover is designed for all types of vehicles as well as for all sizes good truck, SUV, sedan, or others, all have been in the design and provide a safe as possible, and with a strong ingredients can survive for tens of years

Car cover has been designed by the world's largest manufacturer of custom car covers, Covercraft Industries. and course materials in use is a choice of material, unlike other protective equipment designed to protect your vehicle from one element only, but covercraft car designing the cover for the various elements, such as dust, hot sun of rain, or other things, also with a choice of quality fabrics, these are also factors main in the manufacture of car covers, with more than a dozen years of experience producing high quality products include protective car.

This can be seen from the designers put resistance, of all the elements which could damage, resilience to water so as not to penetrate into, and make a smooth circulation of air when you close your vehicle all this has been, at best considered in the design and selection of fabrics, all in governance by experts professional.

not very unusual, stop using, coarse cloth, or a lid that does not arbitrarily designed specifically for your car, because you'll regret later covercraft is ready for you, if you want to order, or want to ask, and choose according to your needs.

Read more »

Cold air intakes Good For Machine

If the previous post I discussed, about car accessories, but only at the wheel, this time I will provide information about car accessories, now we move deeper go to again

Air intakes, this is a machine tool coolant for your car, and this tool will increase your engine's performance becomes more leverage, most of which become obstacles in the journey is, the engine overheated, and make them strike, you will become annoyed and will probably get angry.

But with the cooler air to your engine, now you do not need anymore is concerned, for any travel, due to cold water will put maximum intakes for your car or vehicle. and I wish you could talk to his machine, they will be grateful to you for having the
give my best to help him, so that more leverage.

This means that designers CARiD company, ensuring robustness of this air intakes, for the convenience of your drive, both for the hot air, dust, everything is designed with the best possible, and certainly designed by experts with experience more than a dozen years.
so what better than providing comfort to your vehicle, CARiD ready to provide all the integrity you need for your vehicle

I hope this information can help you, you can visit CARiD site for more information and if you want to order directly

Read more »

Cheesiest Television and Movie Cars

Cheesiest Television and Movie Cars

Steve McQueen's Highland Green "Bullitt" Mustang is a pop culture icon. But how about the automotive Omarossas? Which movie and TV cars were the worst ever? Here's a list of possible nominees:

* "Magnum, PI " 83 Ferrari 308 - One of the very few slow - and cheap - Ferraris. Though it looks fast, the 308's little V-8 produced just 205 hp - about 60 hp less than a Camry V-6 and about 200 hp less than a current Ferrari.

Now you know why Magnum was reduced to doing burnouts on the grass. The 308 may have a prancing horse on the fender - but there's a Gerbil under the hood. You can buy a nice one these days for about $20,000 - and that ought to tell you something.

* "Smokey and the Bandit" '77 Trans-Am - A great movie - about a once-great car. There's a reason why they speeded up the film in several driving sequences to make the action at least look fast. The '77 T-top Trans-Am driven by Burt Reynolds may have been menacing in its black paint with gold trim - but all Burt had to work with was a low compression 185-hp 403 V-8 pirated from an Oldsmobile Delta 88 - and a sloshy three-speed automatic transmission.

The stunt scenes - and sound track - were done with a modifed car equipped with a much-massaged 455 Pontiac V-8 - an engine not offered in a Trans-Am since 1976 - and a real-deal 4-speed manual gearbox.

* "Charlie's Angels" 78 Mustang Cobra II - This sheetmetal cousin of the "hit me - and we die together" Pinto remains the undisputed Most Embarrassing Mustang Ever Built. It's amazing Farrah was able to chase down any criminals in this tarted-up, toothless faux muscle car. They probably slowed down - so she could catch up.

The one admirable design feature of the Mustang II was its tendency to rapidly dissolve from rust - like an old soup can left out in the yard. So few are left in existence to blight the roads.

* "Starsky & Hutch" '76 Ford Torino - This car ("Zebrathree") was an even bigger load than David Soul and Paul Michael Glazer. Like a washed-up jock in a baggy sweat suit, the customized '76 Torino was a typical mid-late '70s overweight, underpowered smog machine. Its 200-something horsepower 460 V-8 was a low performance boat anchor of an engine better at sucking gas than hauling ass.

A loud paint job and white stripes only called attention to its mediocre performance. This unfortunate Ford was the el cheapo equivalent of a Chrysler Cordoba - only without the "rich, Corinthian leather" to class it up a little.

* "Back to the Future" '82 DeLorean - It'd be hard to get to the next stop light - let alone 1985 - in this stainless steel road toad. With a feeble Renault-sourced 2.8 liter V-6 under the hood - and all of 130 hp on tap - Doc Brown would have had to stuff a lot of bananna peels into "Mr. Fusion" to get the car to 85 mph.

Even with a ""flux capacitor," Biff's old Chevy would've blown its Gullwing doors off.

* "Corvette Summer" 'Vette - Take a perfectly good mid-'70s Corvette - and ruin it with a couple hundred pounds of slapped on fiberglass pontoons, wings and oversized hood scoops. Then spray thoroughly with garish metalflake paint and prisma. Put Mark "Luke Skywalker" Hamill in the lead role - and you've got all the makings of a first-class stinker of a movie about Corvette mutilation and '70s stoner anomie.

The movie is all about finding the car after it got stolen by thieves - but the smarter move would've been to cash the insurance check and send the crooks a thank-you card.

* "Hardcastle & McCormick" Manta kit car - The music and intro were pretty cool - especially the part where the car cuts under the tractor trailor - but the VW-sourced kit car Lola GT/Lotus wasn't.

Even if it did have a Porsche engine (no one knows for sure; some say it was Corvair-powered) a fake exotic sports car is about as classy as Potomac River caviar.

You're not foolin' anyone, son. Put those gold chains away, tuck in your shirt - and buy a real car.

Read more »

2011 Aston Martin Super Sport

2011 Aston Martin Super Sport, Aston Martin Aston Marti took out the Super Sport which is a new supercar being developed in cooperation with French companies. No details about the rumors of Aston Martin’s Super Sport has been officially confirmed. Aston Martin is a partner of the French custom manufacturer of golf carts. There is a long way to go from golf carts to supercars, so that the Aston Martin Super Sport may be just a trick. Maybe for someone, April Fool’s day has come late this year.

Aston Martin’s Super Sport powered by a 5.4-liter V8 twin-turbo grow anywhere between 800 and 950 hp. Aston Martin Prices Super Sport said to have reached 7.5 jutaEUR trusted. Aston Martin will have the Super Sport or Brembo AP Racing carbon ceramic brakes and carbon fiber interior body.The of Aston Martin’s Super Sport will feature RECARO racing seats, Alcantara and leather seats and iPod connectivity.

Read more »

2010 Porsche Carrera GT Gemballa Mirage GT Gold Edition

2010 Porsche Carrera GT Gemballa Mirage GT Gold Edition, 2010 The tuner Gemballa kit is the newest product introduced for junior fashion Porsche Carrera. Porsche Carrera at the same time introduce the new CEO also announced that Gemballa is Andreas Schwarz. The Gemballa GmbH is built on what remained of the previous tuner after Likwidator arbitrate. The new Gemballa located in Mollenbachstraße 17 in Leonberg.

Schwarz said the new Gemballa has worked in a variety of conversions for the Porsche Cayenne and Porsche Panamera, and the main goal is to develop the brand as a producer. Potential tuner that is supported by the nearly 30 year existence and a showroom in Leonberg Gemballa has been opened for the customer.

Read more »

Learn the Quickest Way to Get Rid of Your Old Clunker

Learn the Quickest Way to Get Rid of Your Old Clunke

A lot of people have junk cars just lying around. Since cars are made out of metal, they have this annoying tendency to rust. And devil take it all if those stupid axles and ball bearings and motors and drive trains and whatnot just have a hankering to fail at any given time. If you have a junk vehicle but do not have the ability to get rid of it yourself, you should consider a company that offers junk car removal services. The best part about the deal is that it does not even cost you anything - junk car removals typically feature free towing.

You might be wondering how it's possible that you can get junk car removal services done, and still have free towing. One would think that you would have to pay for that kind of "away from your door" service. It might even seem too good to be true, that you do not have to pay so much as a dime - but believe it. The reason that companies such as Junk My Car can offer you free towing with their vehicle removal service is because they have contracts set up with local car wreckers, and they all make their profit on the back end.

How To Get Rid of Your Old Clunker - Here is a simple overview of the junk car removal business. and their staff walks you through the process of getting all of the title work taken care of. And once all of the legalities are resolved (you know, making sure that you actually own the car in question), you schedule an appointment for your car to be removed from your property. Having it your car be easily accessible really is a kindly courtesy to the towing company.

And once the towing company has gone off with your car, it is no longer your responsibility. Your car is then taken to a wrecker, who will keep it until such a time as people decide to come and pick parts off of it. So, in essence, junk car removals with free towing benefit everyone involved. You get rid of an inoperable vehicle, and a local towing and wrecking company gets to keep their people employed because they have useful work for them to do. So junk car removal is just a good thing overall. If you have an old clunker just taking up space, take the steps to finally get rid of it!

Read more »

2011 VW Race Touareg 3 Ready

2011 VW Race Touareg 3 Ready, New VW Touareg Race 3 Race Touareg 2 will replace, winning twice in 2009 and 2010 from the grueling Dakar Rally and the first diesel car to win the event. Volkswagen claims that the Touareg Race 3 will be faster and more efficient than the Race Touareg 2, while maintaining great strength and durability of the car out.


Although the barman bursh around the lattice is not visible in the pictures, we see the same style of mesh features of the test vehicle. More surprising is the identical look and placement of the valve blue, black hose, steel tubes, and the element radiators. Vehicle exterior color on this teaser is also similar to the prototype.

More Information>>>

Read more »

2010 Mercedes SL65 AMG black concept

2010 Mercedes SL65 AMG black concept, Mercedes tuner AMG MKB offers the most powerful supercar for another 345 horsepower. Standard PS PS 670 was changed to 1.015 by the Swabian engineers from MKB tuning technology companies. engine torque is limited to 1.300 Nm. Before the lucky owner can change the key of his SL 65 Black Series with MKB P 1000 power train cars must undergo conversion of a large machine.

Conversion of a new engine for the most powerful AMG engine requires long-term experience of the overall technical team for MKB. Basic famous engineer. Many owners of trust MKB 65 AMG performance tuning and so they reach the speed regularly with a luxury coupe and a luxury sedan in the Autobahn, where speeds of modern fighter aircraft landing gear had retracted them already.

Other Information>>>

Read more »

2011 Volkswagen Touareg On Road

2011 Volkswagen Touareg On Road, Volkswagen Touareg are reinterpreting the idea attractive versatile SUV with a contemporary manner. The VW Touareg will also be the first and only off-roader in Europe by the German car maker will be available in hybrid versions, too. This makes the standard between the fully off-road-capable SUV with a gasoline engine which has a fuel consumption of just 8.2 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers

In all versions of the Volkswagen Touareg, the new eight-speed automatic transmission speed used – further development of six-speed automatic transmission previously. Which makes Volkswagen’s first SUV in the world with the type of transmission. This automatic machine is designed for torques up to 850 Newton-meters. Since two levels of additional teeth, 20 percent greater gearing spread can be achieved between the first and eighth gears. This accomplishes two goals: First, thank you for this wider spread, the engine operates with greater efficiency for all speed ranges, making them both more fuel efficient and responsive. Second, it is possible to lay out seven and eight gear-gears reduce the speed (20 per cent reduction) – fuel-saving overdrive gear.

More Information>>>

Read more »

2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Review

Reviewing the 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer It wasn't just Detroit's Big Three that got pummeled by the economic collapse. Mitsubishi, one of the smaller Japanese brands (in the U.S., at least) saw its sales free-fall at Chrysler-like rates - and is currently trying to claw its way back up the cliffside.

The automaker faces even tougher going than Chrysler, though, because it's not as established in the market - and because it's not getting massive federal aid.But it does have a competitive small car in its model lineup - the 2010 Lancer sedan/hatchback wagon. That's something Chrysler hasn't got at the moment - and it's also something Mitsubishi can use to draw buyers away from the name- brand Japanese (and Korean) automakers.


WHAT'S GOOD

Even base versions of the Lancer are very sporty both looks-wise and handling-wise; it's an economy car that doesn't look it - or feel like it. Mid-trim GTS with larger 2.4 liter engine is a strong performer in a straight-line, too. EVO-esque turbocharged AWD Ralliart is a fierce performer.

WHAT'S NOT SO GOOD

Mainly, Mitsubishi's iffy situation in the U.S. market. There is a not-small chance the company could leave North America for greener pastures, such as the Japanese home market and maybe Europe. This possibility, in turn, hammers the resale value/depreciation rates of Mitsubishi's products. Some issues with quality/reliability. Subaru offers standard AWD (and higher horsepower) in the Impreza WRX for much less money. Drinks more gas than others in its class.

ENGINES & PERFORMANCE

The Lancer has three distinct personalities, depending on which drivetrain you select. Base DE and ES trims are equipped with an economy-minded 2.0 liter four that's rated at 152 hp. (California models get downrated slightly to 143 hp.) To go with it, you can pick either the standard five-speed manual transmission or the optional Continuously Variable automatic (CVT).

Zero to 60 times with the the 2.0 liter engine and five-speed stick are just under eight seconds; CVT versions get there in about 9 seconds flat. This is decent performance for an economy car; enough to feel comfortable as a commuter car, with sufficient power to merge/pull into traffic. Gas mileage is not so great, though.

The Lancer with the 2.0 liter engine and manual transmission is rated at 22 city and 30 highway. A Toyota Corolla gets 26 city, 35 highway; the Honda Civic ($15,655) gets 26 city, 34 highway. The Ford Focus delivers 35 MPGs on the highway. And the Kia Forte - which at $13,695 is also significantly less expensive to buy than the Lancer - manages 25 city and 34 highway. Sub-par fuel economy relative to others in its class (and in particular, the less expensive Kia) is a definite Lancer weak point.

If you'd like more straight-line pull, there's the Lancer GTS. It comes with a larger, more powerful 2.4 liter engine rated at 168 hp. It also comes with either the five speed manual or CVT automatic. This combo can make 60 mph in 7.5-7.6 seconds, which is quick enough to keep pace with a Mazda Miata roadster. Also thumbs-up: Gas mileage with the GTS and 2.4 liter engine is only slightly off what you'd get if you chose the base 2.0 liter engine - 21 city and 28 highway.

At the apex of the performance pyramid is the Lancer Ralliart - which comes standard with a 237 hp turbocharged version of the 2.0 liter four-cylinder engine teamed up with a sharp-shifting dual-clutch automatic (very much like what's available in the EVO supercar) and all-wheel-drive. With a zero to 60 time in the 5.7 second range, the Ralliart is nearly twice as quick as the base Lancer. Gas mileage for this version of the Lancer is 17 city, 25 highway.

DRIVING IMPRESSIONS

While fuel efficiency may not be the Lancer's strongest card, it does offer more in the way of driving fun - even base DE and ES versions - than just about any other economy sedan with the exception of the Mazda3 and Subaru Impreza, both of which cost more starting out. It has sharp, precise steering, doesn't flop around unhappily when you lean on it some and all around just seems more interested in the experience than most of its competition.

Just two disappointing things: The five-speed manual needs another gear. First, because competitors like the Kia Forte come with six-speeds. Second because engine RPM with the five-speed is around 3,000 RPM at 65-ish MPH, which results in excessive drivetrain noise and also hurts the car's fuel efficiency potential. A six-speed would drop cruise RPM in top gear by about 500 RPM and probably increase gas mileage by 2-3 MPGs - which would even things up between the Mitsu and its competition from Toyota, Honda and others.

The turbocharged, AWD Ralliart delivers near-EVO acceleration and handling for a lot less money - both up front and in the form of likely insurance premiums (especially if you are a single male under age 30). The dual-clutch automatic transmission is virtually the same as the transmission available in the EVO. Though it is an automatic transmission, it bangs off ultra-quick gear changes very much like a manual operated by an expert driver - with perfect consistency. The Ralliart's AWD set-up is also virtually the same as the EVO's, too.

The big things that's missing is the extra 54 horsepower that comes with the $33,590 (to start) EVO. But with $6,400 left over in your pocket (the difference between the cost of the EVO and the Ralliart) plus the money you'll save in insurance costs, you could probably modify the Ralliart with a few aftermarket parts to equal if not surpass the EVO's power output/acceleration - and still have spent less overall than you would have on a factory-stock EVO.

Even better, your insurance company will be none the wiser. (This is also an argument in favor of the Ralliart vs. the Subaru WRX. While the Soobie's stronger in stock trim - 265 hp - and costs less up-front - $24,995 for the sedan, $25,495 for the wagon - it is also well-known to insurance companies and will almost certainly cost more to cover than a Lancer Rallliart, if you're in the "high risk" group of drivers. Get some quotes before you buy. You might end up paying less overall for the GTS vs. the WRX, even after you hot-rod the GTS to EVO levels of power.)

STYLING & UTILITY

The Lancer is a sharp looking car - much more so than the doughty-looking economy cars it competes with, some of which have a pitiful "kick me" ambiance about them. Even the base DE looks like it's ready to rally, with its forward canted nose and oversized radiator inlet. The availability of a wagon body adds versatility not offered in sedan or coupe only competitors, such as the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, Ford Focus, Kia Forte and Hyundai Elantra.

The Mazda3 and Soobie Impreza are among the few competitors also available as wagons - but the Lancer Sportback costs less ($19,190 vs. $19,540) has much more cargo room (53 cubic feet, total, vs. 17 for the Mazda) and has a stronger standard engine, too (the sedan's optional 2.4 liter, 168 hp engine is standard equipment in the Sportback). The Subaru wagon undercuts the Lancer Sportback on price ($17,995) but it has less cargo space - 44 cubic feet.

The Ralliart's available turbocharged engine, dual-clutch transmission and AWD (both sedan and wagon versions) are also features not generally available in competitor models. Subaru's WRX does offer AWD and a turbo engine, but not the dual-clutch automatic - which helps justify the Lancer Ralliart's higher MSRP.

The mid-line GTS can be ordered with Recaro sport buckets and comes standard with pretty aggressive 18-inch wheels and performance tires. Other un-econcar optional equipment includes a 30 Gigabyte digital music storage system and premium Rockford Fosgate audio rig, bundled with GPS. Of its main competition, only the Kia Forte has more front seat headroom - and only by about half an inch (39.6 inches for the Mitsubishi vs. 40 inches even for the Kia). On other measures, such as back seat head and legroom, the Lancer likewise offers about as much (and sometimes more) space than its rivals.

QUALITY & SAFETY

Here's where things get a little dicey. Mitsubishi has had some problems in recent years with quality control. Generally not major stuff, but stuff nonetheless. The other thing is the health of the company itself, which (like Chrysler's) isn't great. Mitsubishi wont go out of business (as Chrysler still might) but it may leave the U.S. market if it can't rebuild its presence here. If that happens, the consequence for owners of Mitsubishi cars will be the loss of dealer support for service work - and of course higher depreciation rates.

This scenario isn't likely, but it is possible given how badly Mitsubishi's been hurt by the economic downturn - and given the likelihood that things aren't going to improve much for the industry, generally, for quite some time to come.

That's not Mitsubishi's fault. It's just tough luck and the way things are right now. Safety-wise, ABS and stability control are now standard on all trims - along with front seat side-impact air bags, curtain air bags and - an unusual feature in this class - a driver's side knee air bag.

Read more »