Tags: April A to Z Challenge / European vehicles / new cars

Blogging From A to Z Day 15: O is for Overseas Delivery

- Rabu, 16 April 2014 No Comments

Image courtesy of Volvo Cars

For the month of April I will be participating in the Blogging From A to Z Challenge. Learn more about the challenge by clicking here. Each day (except Sundays) I will be posting a theme based on each letter of the alphabet. This blog is covering automotive topics for the month. To read my other blog posts for the challenge, click here.

One of my automotive fantasies is to take part in an overseas delivery program. Of course, I love cars, but I also love traveling. Combining the two into a single experience would be nothing short of incredible. Perhaps I will put such a thing on my bucket list, but there are a few factors working against the fantasy.

First off, for those of you who are confused, an overseas delivery program is when a car shopper who is purchasing a vehicle that is made in another country actually travels to the production facility and takes possession of the car when it rolls off the assembly line. How this happens varies greatly from automaker to automaker, with some treating new owners to a swanky reception with wine and cheeses, or even letting them flog the car around the facility's test track.

Image courtesy of Porsche

Really, these programs only exist in Europe. You pick up your car and then you get to drive it to all of the touristy spots on the continent that you want to see. At the end of your vacation, you turn your car over to a boat and it is shipped to the United States, while you hop a plane back home. So you not only get to see where your car was made and even potentially press the flesh with the people who made it, you also get to take it to see the Eiffel Tower, the fields of tulips in the Netherlands, or the famous streets of Barcelona. That would pretty much be one of the coolest vacations ever.

Tags: April A to Z Challenge / Germany / Nurburgring / race tracks

Blogging From A to Z Day 14: N is for Nurburgring

- Selasa, 15 April 2014 No Comments

Images courtesy of General Motors

Few racetracks rise to the level of celebrity the Nurburgring has enjoyed. Despite all of the talk about the track, and its use as a benchmark tool for automakers trying to show off the performance capabilities of new models, most people understand little about the track.

The north loop or Nordschleife is the area that you always see on car commercials. It measures over 14 miles long. A GP-Strecke portion of the track was added in 1983 and is used for numerous motorsport competitions. It measures just over 3 miles long. In some rare cases, the entire track is used for competitions.

The Nurburgring has been referred to as the Green Hell. The track is extremely challenging and even treacherous as it takes drives through many hairpin turns and straightaways with gradual turns and sudden dips, to name a few of the difficult areas. According to Jeremy Clarkson of the BBC's Top Gear, the track has claimed over 200 lives and counting. Crashes are pretty common as drivers who aren't experienced push their cars too hard at the wrong spots and find themselves unable to negotiate different sections.

One of the most interesting aspects of the Nurburgring is that on some days, mostly the weekends, drivers can take their car to the track to race. It is technically considered a toll road that's open to the public, but there is no speed limit or oncoming traffic. Take that, Autobahn! This feature was in jeopardy when the track went into bankruptcy and some Americans were moving to purchase it, possibly to even demolish the track, but thankfully a group of German investors outbid them with the aim of keeping the track the automotive icon it should always be.

There are many, many videos of the 'Ring, but here are a couple to give you a taste for the track, if you haven't seen it before.

Tags: April A to Z Challenge / manual transmissions

Blogging From A to Z Day 13: M is for Manual Transmission

- Senin, 14 April 2014 No Comments

As you can see, my manual transmission indoctrination started early.

In case you haven't noticed, manual transmissions are dying in the U.S. automotive market. Apparently automakers feel that Americans don't want to manually shift gears in their car, favoring that the car's ECU decides when gear changes are made. There are even a number of performance vehicles that are offered with an automatic transmission as an option, when no such option was available before, like the upcoming 2015 Chevrolet Corvette ZO6. Other performance cars can only be had with an automatic transmission, like the Dodge Challenger or Porsche 911 GT3.

I've had cars with a manual shift mode on the automatic transmission. While it's better than always having to rely on the computer to decide when to shift, it's nowhere near the same as using a manual transmission. If you know what you're doing, you can manipulate the pedals on a car with an automatic transmission and do some impressive things, but that level of control increases dramatically with a manual transmission.

Learning to drive a manual is like a rite of passage for many drivers, or at least it used to be. I remember fondly rolling my first manual car up and down my driveway, practicing letting the clutch out while hitting the accelerator in perfect coordination. More fond memories came from learning how to do a burnout, double-clutch and other such activities. Okay, you can do a burnout in a car with an automatic transmission, but you don't have nearly as much control about it. And don't even get me started about how cars with automatic transmissions gear seek and do other such annoying things.

There is an effort underway to Save the Manuals, which was started by Car and Driver. I plan to do my part by buying a fun car with a manual transmission. If you want to learn about ways you can support the cause, click here.

Tags: April A to Z Challenge / Lotus

Blogging From A to Z Day 12: L is for Lotus

- Minggu, 13 April 2014 No Comments

Image courtesy Lotus

One of my earliest automotive infatuations was the Lotus Esprit. The car looked sleek and futuristic, yet it didn't use a huge engine like so many other performance cars of the day. There was something magical about the British car, and I have to admit that I'm not a huge British car fan (although the new Jaguar F Type is something else).

Lotus was started by Colin Chapman after World War II. Chapman really just wanted to race, but in case you aren't aware, motorsports aren't cheap and so he had to find a way to help finance his racing fantasies. That lead him to start making road cars. Instead of making just any old road cars, Chapman decided to take some of the racing excitement to the people.

One of my most favorite cars of all times is the Lotus Exige. It's based on the impressive Elise, but takes things up to an insane level. Instead of going for a big engine, Lotus used a small Toyota engine and through some creative engineering, including a low curb weight and incredible handling, produced a relatively affordable and capable vehicle.

Unfortunately, today Lotus has lost its way. The current Evora is not in the spirit of past Lotus models, and as a result Lotus has struggled financially. I hope the company pulls through by going back to what made it a success, and hope it does not face the horrid death Saab suffered.

Tags: April A to Z Challenge / Koenigsegg / supercars

Blogging From A to Z Day 11: K is for Koenigsegg

- Jumat, 11 April 2014 No Comments

Photos courtesy of Koenigsegg

If you've never heard of Koenigsegg, you are missing out on a true automotive gem. The small Swedish automaker is a rising star in the industry, and it's starting to make waves by doing things on its own terms. The company has only been around since 1994, yet the super cars it produces makes Ferraris and Lamborghinis tremble in fear.

Just to look at a Koenigsegg is to view a thing is wild and slathered with carbon fiber parts, air intakes and aero parts. Under the skin are highly advanced mechanicals, including engines that scream so much power it is almost hard to believe. The company has pioneered a number of turbocharging innovations that I predict will impact automotive engineering for decades.

Case in point: the Koenigsegg's latest project, the One:1. The name has a meaning: 1 horsepower to 1 kilogram of curb weight. For those of you who aren't intimately familiar with power-to-weight ratios, that's insane. Literally, people in the automotive industry said such a feat was impossible, yet Koenigsegg is doing just that. The car stays planted on the ground thanks to numerous active aero parts (in other words, they move as the car speeds up). The car doesn't just have carbon fiber on the body and on the dashboard, but the freaking suspension springs and the wheels are made of carbon fiber!

Tags: April A to Z Challenge / car crashes / car safety / texting while driving

Blogging From A to Z Day 10: J is for Just Hang Up and Drive!

- Kamis, 10 April 2014 No Comments

Yes, this a real product! What if the airbag deploys?

Humans seem to be getting dumber, because in recent years we think we can safely pilot a 4,000 pound vehicle while not looking or even keeping our hands on the steering wheel. Why? Because we're too busy fiddling with phones, tablets and other things that have absolutely nothing to do with driving, that's why!

I cannot tell you how many times I recently have been almost hit by another driver who is swerving, running stop signs, etc. only to see the other driver is looking at his/her phone. It pisses me off like nothing else, because my kids' lives are worth more than some asswipe's weekend plans that have to be texted about right at that exact moment.

If people think about their actions for one moment, they would realize that using electronic devices instead of paying attention behind the wheel is incredibly selfish. Cars are dangerous weapons, every bit as dangerous as a gun or knife, yet we treat them as if they are playthings. If you hit a cyclist even with a tiny car like a Ford Fiesta, you could easily kill or permanently maim the other person. Do we just not care about other people? Oh, you're bored behind the wheel, so you decided to risk everyone else's lives? It would be like a parent being bored during their baby's bath, so they just leave the baby alone in the tub while they watch a movie!

To make things even better, I hear some people I know for a fact text and drive complain about the advent of autonomous vehicle technology. You see, these people don't trust technology, which is why their entire social life is facilitated by their phone. I would rather trust an algorithm that these morons behind the wheel of their vehicle, especially if it's my kids' life on the line.

Put your damn phone/tablet down and drive you car, people! Stop being a selfish asswipe and thinking only about your pathetic entertainment while driving.

These videos are shocking and hopefully will help impact behavior behind the wheel:

Tags: April A to Z Challenge / Infiniti / luxury cars

Blogging From A to Z Day 9: I is for Infiniti

- Rabu, 09 April 2014 No Comments

Images courtesy Infiniti

Back in 1985 Nissan engaged in an ultra top-secret mission to bring about a luxury brand that would later become known to the world as Infiniti. The brand was supposed to take the fight to the luxury brands from Europe and the United States, giving Nissan a presence in a market segment it had never before entered. Keep in mind this was back when people thought of Japanese cars as cheap and economical, not luxurious.

The brand launched in 1989 with two models: the Q45 and the M30. For some time Infinitis were so much like their Nissan counterparts that many people had trouble taking them seriously. After all, you cannot buy a stripped-down version of the BMW 5 Series or Cadillac CTS. Of course, this was a common practice with Japanese luxury brands.

This definitely is nothing like an Altima!

Today, things are much different. Nissan has given Infiniti considerable autonomy, allowing the brand to pursue the unique needs and wants of the luxury market. Infiniti headquarters have moved to Hong Kong and the brand has been spreading throughout the world. The brand also announced that it was renaming all of its vehicles so all cars start with a "Q" and all crossovers and SUVs start with a "QX." The all-new Q50 is not a reworked Altima, and Infiniti is even toying with producing a high-performance version of the car, called the Eau Rouge. Infiniti is moving forward in more daring directions, and I think is more of a threat to different luxury lines now more than ever. I wouldn't kick a Q50 Eau Rouge out of my garage, that's for sure!

Tags: April A to Z Challenge / Chrysler / Dodge / Hemi / Jeep

Blogging From A to Z Day 8: H is for Hemi

- Selasa, 08 April 2014 No Comments

Images courtesy Chrysler

Everyone has heard of a Hemi, but few people really know what they are. The context you usually hear about Hemis today is when someone is referring to certain engines used in various Chrysler vehicles, which include Dodges, Jeeps, and Rams. Some people mistakenly think that the Hemi engine was invented by Chrysler, but that would be like saying that Porsche invented the boxer engine.

The big difference between a Hemi and other engines has to do with the combustion chamber, which is set up to produce more power. The top of the combustion chamber is rounded off instead of flat. If that doesn't make sense, check out these useful illustrated explanations here.

Chrysler actually started toying around with Hemi engines back in the 1930s, but the octane rating in fuels back then was too low to accommodate the engine design. In fact, the first production car to use a Hemi engine was the 1948 Jaguar XJ6 and D-Type. Chrysler started using Hemis in various cars in the 1950s, which helped usher in the golden age of muscle cars in the 1960s.

One interesting fact about Hemis. They not only have been used to power cars and trucks, but also have powered a number of other machines, including air raid sirens during the Cold War.

Tags: April A to Z Challenge / Godzilla / Nissan

Blogging From A to Z Day 7: G is for Godzilla

- Senin, 07 April 2014 No Comments

Images courtesy of Nissan

I thought with the release of the Godzilla movie it would be appropriate to highlight the automotive Godzilla, otherwise known as the Nissan GT-R. The car comes by the nickname rightfully, considering it is known for monstrous performance, plus the car hails from Japan.

The Nissan GT-R cars first started in 1969 and ran until 1973. Nissan brought the cars back in 1989, which is when the car was first called "Godzilla" for its frightening performance. Since then, the GT-R has been the most performance-oriented Nissan. Not only do they use a potent engine, but also an even more potent turbocharger setup to push out increasing amounts of power.

The automaker has used the GT-R to showcase some advanced technologies. For example, the current GT-R features a drivetrain setup where the engine is at the front of the car, while the transmission is located in the rear, providing better balance and superior handling. Other innovations include four-wheel steering and a highly advanced all-wheel drive system.

Some Nissan purists try to argue that since the current GT-R is not based on the Skyline platform, it is in fact not a Godzilla. I'm not a purist, so I think it's a load of bull. Besides, the current GT-R is a great performer that can crush Ferraris, Corvettes, Porsche 911s and more not only in drag races, but also on racetracks with plenty of tight turns. Who wouldn't wan to lay claim to that?

Tags: April A to Z Challenge / Nissan / sports cars

Blogging From A to Z Day 6: F is for Fairlady

- Minggu, 06 April 2014 No Comments

Photo courtesy Nissan

Most people have no idea that Nissan's Z cars (like the 300ZX, 350Z and 370Z) are called the Fairlady in Japan. It's a weird name, I know, but it's the domestic name for its famous sports car line and it works in that culture. For a really eye-opening experience, click this link and see the 370Z's Japanese webpage.

A fact many don't know is that Nissan's Fairlady of Z-car lineup constitutes the world's most popular sports car. They have been thrilling drivers for decades now. For reasons I don't entirely understand myself, starting with the 350Z they have been offered without a turbo option. This has been an embarrassment for Nissan, since there are sedans that can outperform them on a number of tests. Car tuners often address this problem up front, slapping on a turbo or supercharger and increasing performance so dramatically, it makes me wonder why Nissan does not offer it as a factory option. Thus is the business of cars, and it doesn't always make sense.

If you use the term "Fairlady" correctly, you will gain some respect in car enthusiast circles. Even better, using the correct chassis codes for the different generations of the car will win you loads of street cred. Why? Because you're likely wondering what a chassis code is, that's why. There are many ways automotive enthusiasts keep out "posers" or people who want to act like they're way into cars, but instead know next to nothing about them. It's an interesting group dynamic I've actually studied academically.

In case you were wondering about those chassis codes, I have them right here. First generation: S30. Second generation: S130. Third generation: Z31. Fourth generation: Z32. Fifth generation: Z33. Sixth generation Z34.

Here is a turbocharged Fairlady (370Z) on a dyno (a machine created to measure powertrain output). You can hear the turbos hissing loudly as the engine is revved:

Tags: April A to Z Challenge / Mitsubishi / turbos

Blogging From A to Z Day 5: E is for Evolution

- Jumat, 04 April 2014 No Comments

If it wasn't for Subaru finally bringing its Impreza WRX STi to the United States, we might never have known the amazing performance of the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution at all. I remember when both cars were about to release here, some of the old school automotive journalists tried to act like they were jokes because they only had four cylinders. I could go on about all the high-performance cars with four banger engines, but I'll spare you all.

The Evolution has been a tremendous contribution to the automotive world. While it might not be as fast as an STI when it comes to straightline acceleration, Mitsubishi's highly advanced all-wheel drive system gives the car a definite edge on a twisty track. In fact, you can stick turns in an Evolution that many cars, including some high-priced exotics, couldn't make without spinning out. Considering the car was built first for rally racing, superior handling is essential.

I have a weakness for turbocharged cars. Sadly, though, I really hate the crowd that gravitates toward the Evolution (and the Subaru WRX and STI). Most are driven by little thug boys or kids who are miffed because daddy wouldn't buy them a BMW M3. When I had a Saab, these punks would always try to race me, never mind that I had my kid with me. I've considered buying a used Evolution as a hobby car, but the image thing always holds me back.

Sadly, as things sit right now the Evolution will be discontinued. As I blogged before, Mitsubishi is considering replacing the car with a high-performance gasoline-electric hybrid (following in the footsteps of Ferrari and Porsche). News broke just a few days ago that a source inside the Japanese automaker claims there is so much infighting and indecision that there is no clear plan for another performance-oriented Mitsubishi car. This is disappointing since Mitsubishi has a habit of producing some highly advanced and incredibly fun-to-drive performance models (like the 3000GT VR4). Hopefully the source is full of it, or it's Mitsubishi blowing smoke to throw the media off.

Tags: April A to Z Challenge / car crashes / videos

Blogging From A to Z Day 3: C is for Crashes

- Rabu, 02 April 2014 No Comments

Image courtesy Volvo Cars

Crashing a vehicle can be an incredibly scary experience. Fortunately, I've never been in a serious car crash, but I've seen a few in person and many, many on video. Car crashes become even scarier when you are a parent and you realize that you have precious cargo on board, which is why I've made a conscious effort to purchase safer vehicles in the past several years.

Despite this fear of crashes, I find watching car crash videos to be fascinating. Maybe the reason why is that I've been in a few close calls a number of times and I feel the need to relive the experience. Or maybe it's a way to release tension after dealing with morons on the road who do everything but drive when they're behind the wheel. The following video of a driver smashing the cell phone of a guy who crashed into his car is a perfect example:

Of course, some of the most horrific crashes are from motorsports. The combination of high speed and racing fuel can make for some serious consequences when things go wrong. One of the most horrific crashes I can remember seeing is from 1998 at the JGTC race at Fuji. The short clip below shows Tetsuya Ota crash his Ferrari F355 into a Porsche 911 that had spun out. Ota's car burst into flames on contact, leaving him trapped into the inferno. What you can't see in the video is how a fellow racer, Shinichi Yamaji, used his own car's fire extinguisher to help put out the blaze and begin the process of extracting Ota from his Ferrari. By some miracle, Ota survived the ordeal, but it still underscores how dangerous motorsports crashes can be.

Tags: April A to Z Challenge / Buick / General Motors / turbos

Blogging From A to Z Day 2: B is for Buick GNX

- Selasa, 01 April 2014 No Comments

Back in 1987 the engineering minds at Buick had a great idea: take everything they had learned up to that point on turbocharging and pour it all into one final hurrah for the Grand National. To the untrained eye, the GNX doesn't look like much, other than a boxy 1980s American coupe that is strangely all black. It's what lurks under the skin of that rogue beast that has made the car a classic, even though I will be the first to admit it's pretty damn ugly.

To produce this masterpiece of a car, Buick turned to ASC/Mclaren to squeeze all of the performance possible out of the 3.8-liter turbo V6 engine. They used a T-3 Garrett turbocharger with a ceramic impellar, an intercooler with a much higher capacity than what was used in past Grand Nationals, sequential port fuel injection, and a dual exhaust system with few restrictions on it. The result was 15 psi of boost and a total system output of 276 horsepower and 360 lb.-ft. of torque. The transmission was also tweaked, with the stock 200-4R used in other Grand Nationals received a 2.74:1 first-gear ratio, plus an increased stall speed torque converter. As if that weren't enough, the transmission was also recalibrated for more line pressure, which made the shifts firmer and further increased responsiveness. The Buick GNX netted amazing results, going from 0 to 60 mph in a blazing 5.5 seconds and becoming the fastest production car sold in the United States in 1987.

Yes, that's right, this thing outran the Corvette, Ferraris, Porsches and everything else sold that year.

The secret of the 1987 Buick GNX was more than just a potent powertrain. Buick upgraded the suspension in the rear, stiffening it up with a Panhard rod and torque arm. The turbocharged engine produced so much heat, that even with the upgraded intercooler engineers had to install functioning fender vents to keep things from getting to hot under the hood.

The great thing about the GNX is that it takes quite well to modifications. Rather than go on about it, you should see what some people have done with the car:

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