Topless Top 10
Ragtop fun for the summer sun.
By Greg Brown
Just before the PC generation was coming into the world, the convertible automobile was all but dead in America. If you wanted a domestic drop-top in 1976, you had a choice — as long as it was the Cadillac Eldorado convertible.
That astonishing dearth of convertibles can be traced to an industry coming to grips with an increased regard for passenger safety. Technology long ago overcame those obstacles, and the convertible market has never been so hot.
Today there is a convertible for every pocketbook, every driving style, every lifestyle. From the poky and perky (smart fortwo) to the suave and swift (Bentley Continental GTC), there’s an open-top alternative to going tintop in every segment.
View Pictures: Topless Top 10
In fact, for the 2008 model year there are 53 convertible models sold in America, from the $16,590 smart to the $495,000 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren. Choosing just ten from those 53 cars is an impossible task, but that didn’t stop us from compiling a list, based on nothing more than their inviting natures and the promise of warm summer nights.
MINI Cooper ($21,950)MINI Cooper S Convertible
The MINI is like that stylish vision you admired from a distance which, upon closer acquaintance, had plenty of substance too. The power-retractable soft-top glides back for a panoramic vista and also offers a sunroof position. Rearward visibility isn’t great, but the view out the windshield is inspiring. Given a near perfect seating position and the car’s compact exterior dimensions, the driver feels as tightly wired to the taut chassis and perky drivetrain as Vegas is to the power grid.
Compare Pictures: Cooper Convertible vs. Cooper
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Pontiac Solstice ($22,165) / Saturn Sky ($25,525)
Pontiac Solstice GXP
A sibling rivalry of “world cars” includes these two little roadsters from GM. Both are built in America alongside two other similar models, the Daewoo G2X for the Asian market and the Opel GT (the oldest sibling in the family) for European buyers. Prices begin in the low-20s if the standard 2.4-liter 4-cylinder is chosen. Move up to the 260-horsepower direct-injected and turbocharged 2.0-liter versions, and you’re creeping up on 30 grand for a fully equipped model. Like the classic roadsters of old, neither is generous with space or utility, but the visual appeal and good road manners of these beguiling twins trump any ergonomic compromises.
Compare: Pontiac Solstice vs. Saturn Sky
Ford Mustang ($24,475)
Ford Mustang Convertible
How has this old pony hung on so long? Must be because it’s so darn much fun to drive. Get it with a V6 or a V8, doesn’t matter, because the Mustang offers more fun for the buck than just about anything else on the road. Want a refined thoroughbred to stick your English saddle on? Look elsewhere. The Mustang was built to gallop over the rough urban landscape, and if it ain’t as newfangled as some of the pretenders to the pony-car crown, it has the soul-stirring history of a cultural icon. Plus, a huge number of options and special packages mean you’ll never lose your own hoss in the huge herd of ‘Stangs roaming the road.
Compare Pictures: Mustang convertible vs. Mustang coupe
Chrysler Sebring ($26,160)
Chrysler Sebring Convertible
In some heavily touristed parts of the world, the Sebring convertible is more numerous than Swedish blondes. This makes neither the car nor the blondes a bad thing, but the Sebring’s repute as a lowly rental car, a forgettable weekend fling, was overturned when Chrysler added a retractable hardtop model alongside the existing soft-top. Security is an issue with convertibles (ask any tourist whose soft-top was knifed for the camera on the back seat), and the hardtop adds a dimension of safety and noise insulation. This turned what was once an experience fit to be written on a faded postcard into one captured by a digital photo.
Honda races in the most sophisticated series of them all, Formula One, so it figures the firm can build a pretty good road-going sports car. The S2000 has been around since 1999 and has won lots of awards, but it’s likely to be replaced soon, making this a good time to check out the classic front-engine/rear-wheel-drive layout. Powered by a 237-horsepower 2.2-liter 4-cylinder that soars to 7800 rpm like a falcon on the hunt, its tightly tuned chassis carves corners with the precision of a master sushi chef. Hardcore drivers, though, will want to upgrade to the S2000CR and its quicker gearing, more slippery bodywork and reduced weight. If only Honda could get its F1 cars to work as well!
Compare Pictures: S2000 vs. S2000 CR
Chevrolet Corvette ($54,575)
Click picture to enlarge
Chevrolet Corvette Convertible
If any two-seater with 430 horsepower is to be considered a “Best Buy” in these days of skyrocketing fuel costs, it’s the ‘Vette. With the right attitude and a light foot it can exceed 25 mpg on the highway. With a better attitude and a less bashful foot, it can rip to 60 in only 4.0 seconds. This classic roadster provides the kind of joy that only a V8-powered, front-engine, rear-wheel-drive sports car can. Grouse all you want about the state of the American car industry, but leave out the ‘Vette. It’s a marvel of evolutionary survival, and what a way to cruise Route 66.
Compare Pictures: Corvette convertible vs. Corvette coupe
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Category:Passenger CarsLuxury CarsSports CarsSport UtilitiesVans & MinivansPickup TrucksHybrid Vehicles
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Porsche Boxster S ($55,700)
Porsche Boxster
With a big brother like the legendary 911, the Boxster soft-top can get easily overlooked. But for 30 grand less than the least expensive 911 ragtop, the Boxster S is a bargain as well as a pure-blood sports car. Its superbly balanced mid-engine chassis is low, wide and grips the driver in a cozy embrace, and the free-revving 295-horsepower flat six gobbles miles without guzzling gas (18/26 mpg). The Boxster not only masters the back roads, it’s a quiet cruiser with the top up, and its two trunks make it a truly practical soft-top.
Compare: Boxster vs. Audi TT vs. BMW Z4
Jaguar XKR ($92,035)
Jaguar XK Series
If the XK is not on your wish list of convertibles, then you probably haven’t seen one in its appealing, aluminum skin. This gorgeous modernization of Jaguar’s venerated sports car is offered with either a naturally aspirated V8 or a 420-horsepower supercharged variant, and both models are, of course, lavishly outfitted. The soft purr from the base 300-hp engine isn’t quite enough to put a leap into the almost 4,000-pound soft-top’s otherwise smooth stride, but the R’s supercharged engine and associated chassis upgrades transform the XK into an entirely new species of cat. All the wood and leather and electronics can’t hide the sharp claws that make it the most athletic Jaguar outside the rain forest.
Compare Pictures: XKR convertible vs. XKR coupe
Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG ($132,000)
Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG
Just arrived, the seventh generation of the classic German roadster sports new bodywork, a refined interior and a four-engine lineup that spans the gap from a merely strong 382-horsepower V8 to a ridiculously strong 604-horsepower turbocharged V12. Sportiest is the mighty SL63 AMG, its 518-horsepower V8 hooked to a remarkable new 7-speed multi-clutch automatic transmission. The lavishly equipped two-seater jets from 0-60 mph in just 4.5 seconds, and the fold-away hardtop takes just 16 seconds. The time it will take to pay off the $132,000 sticker? Only your accountant knows for sure.
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Sunday, May 18, 2008
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
first auto movies
Car Power
We count down the 10 greatest auto-centric movies
Speed Racer
Angelina Jolie's lips? Johnny Depp's cheekbones? Sure, sure, they're gorgeous movie stars and we love to look at them on the big screen. But listen: there are those of us who, if forced to choose, would turn away from Brad Pitt's blond beauty to watch a bad-ass 1977 Pontiac Trans Am go up against a yellow Mercedes in a parking structure. Preferably with 1970s era Ryan O'Neal in the driver's seat.
Yes, the car in cinema. Assembled, sometimes, like the ultimate dream machine of perfection. Uber speed and sex appeal, a lovely car can be a more aesthetically beautiful creation than ... Catherine Zeta-Jones. Ask any gear-head. Not only can they discuss the repair and restoration of the four or five cars piled in their front yard, they can also tell you the all specs of Mad Max's Interceptor without missing a beat. And yep, not surprisingly, they'd rather watch "Mad Max" over "Love Actually." Hell, they'd rather watch "Mad Max" over "The Fast and the Furious" -- the re-make -- which is where this list pulls into the, uh, driveway.
In anticipation of the release of Speed Racer, we're revving our engines with a look at the 10 greatest examples of car cinema, proving that autos can make not only a genre, but compelling characters as well. For these films, it's not star, but car, power.
10. "Dirty Mary, Crazy Larry" (1974)OK, so the film itself leaves something to be desired in the deep-meaning department. And the director dips into the cheap-thrills cookie jar one too many times. But "Dirty Mary, Crazy Larry" is lots of fun -- especially when involving automobiles. Peter Fonda is (crazy) Larry, a would-be NASCAR driver who, with his mechanic Deke (Adam Roarke), pulls off a heist and runs for a new country. But they also take Mary (Susan George), a nutty wild child (who's really the "crazy" one here, anyway?), who makes the getaway a little more, well, interesting. Filled with all kinds of terrific chase sequences starring lust-worthy hotrod "characters" such as a Dodge Charger, a Chevrolet Impala and a Dodge Polara. This one's muscle-ri-fic.
9. "Duel" (1971) Before he struck fear in the heart of every beach-loving, ocean-swimming New Englander, Steven Spielberg crafted one of his supreme films with "Duel," a movie that struck fear in the heart of every traveling salesman just trying to get down a California highway. Dennis Weaver is the nebbish, Joe-Blow salesman whose life becomes a vehicular nightmare when a mysterious, ominous truck will not stop following him. But why? Well, we assume the truck wants to kill him (or just completely mess with his head) in some kind of sanity test the poor schlub did not need that morning. Or maybe the truck really hates his car -- a Plymouth Valiant. Whatever the case, the deranged semi vs. Plymouth makes for a superbly tense 90-minute chase film that's a lot more disturbing and "bad to the bone" than "Christine."
8. "The Vanishing Point" (1971)Can you get from Denver to San Francisco in one night? Check out "The Vanishing Point," in which Barry Newman's mysterious speedster, Kowalski attempts just that. Hired to deliver the white Dodge 440 Challenger in less than 15 hours, he's in the exceptional predicament of being pursued by cops, while a blind DJ named "Super Soul" (Cleavon Little) helps him along his way. Informing the driver of his progress via radio show, Super Soul also makes Kowalski something of a folk hero ("the last American to whom speed means freedom of the soul"). Taut, enigmatic and chock full of pursuits (a memorable one involves a Jaguar), the film skids and scoots and speeds to a kind of infinity. Who really wants to get out of their car?
7. "Gone in 60 Seconds" (1974) You gotta love a movie in which the car is such a major character, she's given a name ("Eleanor"). You also gotta love a movie in which the writer, director and stunt driver also stars (H.B. Halicki), mostly because he's such a die-hard gear-head that he surely couldn't imagine anyone else leading the proceedings. Car thieves must steal 48 cars in a short period of time, including a 1973 Mustang Mach 1 code-named Eleanor. When Halicki (as the amusingly named Maindrian Pace) gets his hands on Eleanor, the film kicks into epic high gear, with a 40-minute chase scene that passes through five California cities and leaves nearly 100 cars totaled. The movie was re-made (badly) in 2000, proving you don't need big stars (Nicolas Cage and Angelina Jolie) or extra extreme effects when you already had the real deal in the first place. And Halicki was the real deal; he died in a stunt accident while making this film's sequel.
6. "The Driver" (1978) Walter Hill proved that he knew his way around a car by writing the screenplay for Sam Peckinpah's "The Getaway" and directing the auto-centric "The Driver." An unyielding, enigmatic thriller, the film stars Ryan O'Neal, known simply as The Driver, a man constantly chased by, yep, The Detective (a fantastically creepy Bruce Dern) in a seemingly endless game of cat and mouse. The entire film involves obsessed pursuit; the viewer's point of view is often inside the car as the Driver maneuvers without any discernible emotion. O'Neal is almost literally a driving machine, as he shifts, swerves and speeds his Trans Am through parking structures, alleys and oncoming traffic. This is no giggling "Smokey and the Bandit"; this is "Le Samourai" on high octane.
5. "Le Mans" (1971)"Le Mans" is about exactly that: the famed French auto race that runs for 24 hours. And not much else. In true car-noir fashion, it takes a good half-hour before we hear the film's protagonist utter a line of dialogue. That protagonist, Delaney, is played by Steve McQueen in a film so stripped of plot that it often feels like a documentary. We simply watch the auto race on the world's hardest endurance course as our hero goes more than 24 hours on 14.5 kilometers of cordoned country road. There's a duel between Delaney, in his Gulf Team Porsche 917, and a Ferrari 512LM that tests not only the driver's technical abilities, but also his personal will. Filled with terrific racing sequences galore and impressive wrecks, the spectacle is thrilling even if the narrative is not.
4. "Bullitt" (1968) What -- you thought we'd get through this list with only one McQueen film? Not likely, especially since this film is so firmly implanted in car cinema, it's tough not to combine the car and driver as one super being. "Bullitt," Peter Yates' too-cool-for-school-actioner, boasts the greatest cinematic drive through the streets of San Francisco. But there's more than that legendary pursuit. There's the car -- a sweet 1968 Mustang GT 390 (the best-looking Mustang ever) -- and the driver -- McQueen (the best-looking guy ever to drive a Mustang). McQueen, who helped re-vamp the bitchin' green Ford, is the James Dean of car culture.
3. "Smokey and the Bandit" (1977) Many remember 1977 as the year "Star Wars" became a national obsession. But while some of you played with plastic light sabers and (now priceless) action figures, there were others who busted out their Dad's CB radio ("Sheriff ... do the letters F.O. mean anything to you?") and prayed he'd buy a black 1977 Pontiac Trans AM just like the one Burt Reynolds (a.k.a., The Bandit) drives in Hal Needham's classic "Smokey and the Bandit." And yes, I did just say classic. A charming, laughing Reynolds teams with trucker pal Jerry Reed to transport 400 cases of Coors beer across state lines, with an apoplectic, hilarious Jackie Gleason (as Sheriff Buford T. Justice) in pursuit. Loads of light fun filled with clever, excellently edited and just plain stellar car-chase sequences, "Smokey and the Bandit" is, as the infectious Jerry Reed song proclaimed, "loaded up and truckin.'"
2. "Mad Max" (1979)"Mad Max" gives new meaning to the term "playing chicken." After super-studly, leather-clad cop Max The Rockatansky (played by Mel Gibson in a star-making performance) explosively wins this game with an escaped criminal named The Nightrider, thug-in-arms biker-gang leader The Toecutter (oh, how I love these names) seeks vengeance, killing not only Max's partner but Max's family as well. So now Max is, as the title states, mad. Very, very mad. As directed by George Miller, this dystopian vision of violent recklessness and ultimate revenge is wonderfully paced, beautifully textured and even quite emotional at times. It also, in terms of ingenious car chase, crash, smash and explode sequences, is incredibly, punk-rock badass. And it features one of cinema's coolest cars: The Interceptor, a 1973 Ford Falcon XB GT, the auto-erotic fixation of the petrol set. Where can I get one?
1. "Two-Lane Blacktop" (1971) If Jean Paul Sartre had directed a car movie, he might have crafted Monte Hellman's existential, car noir "Two-Lane Blacktop." The stoic central characters are stripped down to their basic handles -- James Taylor is known only as the Driver, Dennis Wilson the Mechanic, Laurie Bird the Girl and the late great Warren Oates, in one of his most unforgettable roles, is GTO. All players drive and drive and drive, seemingly to challenge other cars and race cross country, but is that really what they're seeking? The characters don't even know themselves. But they do love their cars. Taylor and Wilson drive a seriously souped-up '55 Chevy that's all muscle and speed, no frills, while Oates rolls a yellow 1970 Pontiac GTO -- something Taylor scorns as right off the lot. What makes this film unique is its absolute auto-centric vision (the continual purr and hum of the engine makes even the viewer feel at one with the car) mingled with art-house beauty. And it's one of the few movies in which the Driver can state with extra, ambiguous meaning, "You can never go fast enough." A masterpiece.
We count down the 10 greatest auto-centric movies
Speed Racer
Angelina Jolie's lips? Johnny Depp's cheekbones? Sure, sure, they're gorgeous movie stars and we love to look at them on the big screen. But listen: there are those of us who, if forced to choose, would turn away from Brad Pitt's blond beauty to watch a bad-ass 1977 Pontiac Trans Am go up against a yellow Mercedes in a parking structure. Preferably with 1970s era Ryan O'Neal in the driver's seat.
Yes, the car in cinema. Assembled, sometimes, like the ultimate dream machine of perfection. Uber speed and sex appeal, a lovely car can be a more aesthetically beautiful creation than ... Catherine Zeta-Jones. Ask any gear-head. Not only can they discuss the repair and restoration of the four or five cars piled in their front yard, they can also tell you the all specs of Mad Max's Interceptor without missing a beat. And yep, not surprisingly, they'd rather watch "Mad Max" over "Love Actually." Hell, they'd rather watch "Mad Max" over "The Fast and the Furious" -- the re-make -- which is where this list pulls into the, uh, driveway.
In anticipation of the release of Speed Racer, we're revving our engines with a look at the 10 greatest examples of car cinema, proving that autos can make not only a genre, but compelling characters as well. For these films, it's not star, but car, power.
10. "Dirty Mary, Crazy Larry" (1974)OK, so the film itself leaves something to be desired in the deep-meaning department. And the director dips into the cheap-thrills cookie jar one too many times. But "Dirty Mary, Crazy Larry" is lots of fun -- especially when involving automobiles. Peter Fonda is (crazy) Larry, a would-be NASCAR driver who, with his mechanic Deke (Adam Roarke), pulls off a heist and runs for a new country. But they also take Mary (Susan George), a nutty wild child (who's really the "crazy" one here, anyway?), who makes the getaway a little more, well, interesting. Filled with all kinds of terrific chase sequences starring lust-worthy hotrod "characters" such as a Dodge Charger, a Chevrolet Impala and a Dodge Polara. This one's muscle-ri-fic.
9. "Duel" (1971) Before he struck fear in the heart of every beach-loving, ocean-swimming New Englander, Steven Spielberg crafted one of his supreme films with "Duel," a movie that struck fear in the heart of every traveling salesman just trying to get down a California highway. Dennis Weaver is the nebbish, Joe-Blow salesman whose life becomes a vehicular nightmare when a mysterious, ominous truck will not stop following him. But why? Well, we assume the truck wants to kill him (or just completely mess with his head) in some kind of sanity test the poor schlub did not need that morning. Or maybe the truck really hates his car -- a Plymouth Valiant. Whatever the case, the deranged semi vs. Plymouth makes for a superbly tense 90-minute chase film that's a lot more disturbing and "bad to the bone" than "Christine."
8. "The Vanishing Point" (1971)Can you get from Denver to San Francisco in one night? Check out "The Vanishing Point," in which Barry Newman's mysterious speedster, Kowalski attempts just that. Hired to deliver the white Dodge 440 Challenger in less than 15 hours, he's in the exceptional predicament of being pursued by cops, while a blind DJ named "Super Soul" (Cleavon Little) helps him along his way. Informing the driver of his progress via radio show, Super Soul also makes Kowalski something of a folk hero ("the last American to whom speed means freedom of the soul"). Taut, enigmatic and chock full of pursuits (a memorable one involves a Jaguar), the film skids and scoots and speeds to a kind of infinity. Who really wants to get out of their car?
7. "Gone in 60 Seconds" (1974) You gotta love a movie in which the car is such a major character, she's given a name ("Eleanor"). You also gotta love a movie in which the writer, director and stunt driver also stars (H.B. Halicki), mostly because he's such a die-hard gear-head that he surely couldn't imagine anyone else leading the proceedings. Car thieves must steal 48 cars in a short period of time, including a 1973 Mustang Mach 1 code-named Eleanor. When Halicki (as the amusingly named Maindrian Pace) gets his hands on Eleanor, the film kicks into epic high gear, with a 40-minute chase scene that passes through five California cities and leaves nearly 100 cars totaled. The movie was re-made (badly) in 2000, proving you don't need big stars (Nicolas Cage and Angelina Jolie) or extra extreme effects when you already had the real deal in the first place. And Halicki was the real deal; he died in a stunt accident while making this film's sequel.
6. "The Driver" (1978) Walter Hill proved that he knew his way around a car by writing the screenplay for Sam Peckinpah's "The Getaway" and directing the auto-centric "The Driver." An unyielding, enigmatic thriller, the film stars Ryan O'Neal, known simply as The Driver, a man constantly chased by, yep, The Detective (a fantastically creepy Bruce Dern) in a seemingly endless game of cat and mouse. The entire film involves obsessed pursuit; the viewer's point of view is often inside the car as the Driver maneuvers without any discernible emotion. O'Neal is almost literally a driving machine, as he shifts, swerves and speeds his Trans Am through parking structures, alleys and oncoming traffic. This is no giggling "Smokey and the Bandit"; this is "Le Samourai" on high octane.
5. "Le Mans" (1971)"Le Mans" is about exactly that: the famed French auto race that runs for 24 hours. And not much else. In true car-noir fashion, it takes a good half-hour before we hear the film's protagonist utter a line of dialogue. That protagonist, Delaney, is played by Steve McQueen in a film so stripped of plot that it often feels like a documentary. We simply watch the auto race on the world's hardest endurance course as our hero goes more than 24 hours on 14.5 kilometers of cordoned country road. There's a duel between Delaney, in his Gulf Team Porsche 917, and a Ferrari 512LM that tests not only the driver's technical abilities, but also his personal will. Filled with terrific racing sequences galore and impressive wrecks, the spectacle is thrilling even if the narrative is not.
4. "Bullitt" (1968) What -- you thought we'd get through this list with only one McQueen film? Not likely, especially since this film is so firmly implanted in car cinema, it's tough not to combine the car and driver as one super being. "Bullitt," Peter Yates' too-cool-for-school-actioner, boasts the greatest cinematic drive through the streets of San Francisco. But there's more than that legendary pursuit. There's the car -- a sweet 1968 Mustang GT 390 (the best-looking Mustang ever) -- and the driver -- McQueen (the best-looking guy ever to drive a Mustang). McQueen, who helped re-vamp the bitchin' green Ford, is the James Dean of car culture.
3. "Smokey and the Bandit" (1977) Many remember 1977 as the year "Star Wars" became a national obsession. But while some of you played with plastic light sabers and (now priceless) action figures, there were others who busted out their Dad's CB radio ("Sheriff ... do the letters F.O. mean anything to you?") and prayed he'd buy a black 1977 Pontiac Trans AM just like the one Burt Reynolds (a.k.a., The Bandit) drives in Hal Needham's classic "Smokey and the Bandit." And yes, I did just say classic. A charming, laughing Reynolds teams with trucker pal Jerry Reed to transport 400 cases of Coors beer across state lines, with an apoplectic, hilarious Jackie Gleason (as Sheriff Buford T. Justice) in pursuit. Loads of light fun filled with clever, excellently edited and just plain stellar car-chase sequences, "Smokey and the Bandit" is, as the infectious Jerry Reed song proclaimed, "loaded up and truckin.'"
2. "Mad Max" (1979)"Mad Max" gives new meaning to the term "playing chicken." After super-studly, leather-clad cop Max The Rockatansky (played by Mel Gibson in a star-making performance) explosively wins this game with an escaped criminal named The Nightrider, thug-in-arms biker-gang leader The Toecutter (oh, how I love these names) seeks vengeance, killing not only Max's partner but Max's family as well. So now Max is, as the title states, mad. Very, very mad. As directed by George Miller, this dystopian vision of violent recklessness and ultimate revenge is wonderfully paced, beautifully textured and even quite emotional at times. It also, in terms of ingenious car chase, crash, smash and explode sequences, is incredibly, punk-rock badass. And it features one of cinema's coolest cars: The Interceptor, a 1973 Ford Falcon XB GT, the auto-erotic fixation of the petrol set. Where can I get one?
1. "Two-Lane Blacktop" (1971) If Jean Paul Sartre had directed a car movie, he might have crafted Monte Hellman's existential, car noir "Two-Lane Blacktop." The stoic central characters are stripped down to their basic handles -- James Taylor is known only as the Driver, Dennis Wilson the Mechanic, Laurie Bird the Girl and the late great Warren Oates, in one of his most unforgettable roles, is GTO. All players drive and drive and drive, seemingly to challenge other cars and race cross country, but is that really what they're seeking? The characters don't even know themselves. But they do love their cars. Taylor and Wilson drive a seriously souped-up '55 Chevy that's all muscle and speed, no frills, while Oates rolls a yellow 1970 Pontiac GTO -- something Taylor scorns as right off the lot. What makes this film unique is its absolute auto-centric vision (the continual purr and hum of the engine makes even the viewer feel at one with the car) mingled with art-house beauty. And it's one of the few movies in which the Driver can state with extra, ambiguous meaning, "You can never go fast enough." A masterpiece.
Sunday, May 4, 2008
Canada's Top 20 Favourite cars..
Decide your Buy.....
Your Top 20 favourites on Sympatico / MSN Autos
By Isaac
Adams-Hands
Every month, several hundred thousand visitors read through and research their favourite vehicles on Sympatico / MSN Autos, Canada’s top independent automotive web site.
With a rich resource of about 280 different vehicle lines featured on Sympatico / MSN Autos, we believe our monthly rankings offer an accurate reflection of what interests our readers and shoppers.
Which leads us to our list of the Top 20 vehicle models for September, as chosen by our readers:
#1- Lamborghini Gallardo
Lamborghini has taken its already impressive Gallardo coupe and made it even more extreme. Through the extensive use of lightweight materials such as carbon fibre, the weight of the new Gallardo Superleggera model was reduced by 100 kilograms (220 lbs) while the power of the engine was increased by 10 for a total of 530-hp.
#2- Acura TL
The Acura TL is a mid-size, entry-level luxury sedan, and it is currently Acura's best-selling model. Though the TL typically does not deliver the excitement or prestige of competing European sedans, it counters with exceptional value and above-average durability and reliability.
#3- Nissan 350Z
Announced at Geneva Motor Show, the Nissan 350Z will now have an improved 3.5-litre V6, along with a slew of other changes: a new dual air intake system, more flexible variable valve timing, and a higher rev limit thanks to upgraded load bearing components and an asymmetric piston pattern.
#4- Hummer H3
As fuel prices steadily climbed throughout North America in 2007, many consumers thought that would spell the death of big Hummer. However, the strong presence of these go-anywhere vehicles has kept interest alive with a new H3 that boasts a 5.3-litre V8 engine producing 300 horsepower.
#5- Maybach
The new flagship model in the Maybach lineup is the Maybach 62 S, an ultra-luxury sedan that nevertheless delivers levels of performance that are usually expected only from an exotic sports car; effectively rocketing from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds, while maintaining the extraordinary luxury and comfort.
#6- BMW 3-Series
Although the 3-Series is BMW's current entry-level model, it is hardly an entry-level vehicle.
The 3-Series is offered in a sedan, coupe, convertible and wagon form, powered by either a 2.5-litre, naturally-aspirated inline six or a twin-turbo 300-hp variant, with rear-wheel or all-wheel drive.
#7- Subaru Impreza
Subaru is aware that the small band of WRX fanatics will be unhappy with the new look, but is willing to trade that for wider acceptance in the largest segment of the Canadian market. Hopefully this gamble will pay off because the new 2008 Impreza might be the best bargain in the compact class.
#8- Nissan Sentra
When it was redesigned for 2007, the Nissan Sentra compact sedan finally became competitive with the likes of the class-leading Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla - after having trailed the Ford Focus and perhaps even the Chevrolet Cobalt. Regular Sentras come in base 2.0, 2.0 S and 2.0 SL trim levels.
#9- Bentley Continental GT
Earlier this year, the GT broke the World Ice Speed Record on the frozen Baltic Sea, reaching a maximum speed of 331 km/h (207 mph). The Bentley was largely standard except for a roll-cage, some aerodynamic improvements, low-temperature fuel, and Nokian studded tires.
#10- Mazda3
The Mazda3 hasn't lost any steam since it was introduced and Voted Best New Economy Car and Canadian Car of the Year in 2004 by AJAC. Matched with Mazda quality, sporty styling, increased cargo carrying ability, competitive pricing and pleasurable handling, it makes it a perfect car for "fresh out of University, new to the workforce" youth market, and more.
#11- Mitsubishi Lancer
The fully redesigned 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer shares a new platform with the recently-introduced Outlander compact SUV. The base Lancer has a new economical 152-hp 2.0-litre DOHC 4-cylinder engine with MIVEC variable valve timing that also delivers 146 lb-ft of torque. The legendary, rally-inspired, turbocharged Lancer Evo X is coming soon...
#12- Rolls-Royce Phantom
For 2008 Rolls-Royce will add a second model: the all-new Phantom Drophead Coupé. The Phantom goes on sale this year with a base price of around $500,000, making it the most expensive convertible on the Canadian market.
#13- Honda CR-V
Originally launched in 1997, the CR-V was thoroughly redesigned for 2007. This slick, city-friendly compact sport-utility is now powered by a smooth, torquey and lively 166-horsepower, 2.4-litre inline four-cylinder engine.
#14- Nissan Altima
Sporting a comprehensive redesign for 2007, the fourth-generation Nissan Altima is built on the new Nissan "D" platform that offers a more rigid body and redesigned suspension components. The vehicle also gets an upgrade in distinctive interior and exterior styling cues, similar to those of the Infiniti lineup.
#15- Maserati Quattroporte
The Quattroporte sport sedan is designed to combine the materials and comforts of a luxury automobile with the capabilities of a high-performance sports car. It delivers with a powerful V8 engine positioned behind the front axle, resulting in a balance of 49 per cent of the weight in front, 51 per cent in the rear.
#16- Honda Civic
Honda first introduced the Civic in the early 1970s as a small, dependable, and inexpensive car. Today, the Civic is offered in a coupe, sedan, or hybrid version. Although the size has increased since the 70s, the fuel economy numbers remains excellent. The Civic has also been Canada's best-selling car for a number of years.
#17- GMC Acadia
The GMC Acadia offers a standard 7-passenger interior (front buckets, second-row buckets and a third-row bench). The engine is a 3.6-litre, 275-hp V6 with variable valve timing, coupled with GM's new 6-speed automatic transmission, available in front or all-wheel drive configurations.
#18- Pontiac Torrent
Sharing its basic body structure and mechanicals with the Equinox; the Torrent has a different front and rear end which makes it appear like a Pontiac rather than a Chevrolet. The suspension and power steering was also modified to be firmer and sportier. The Torrent shares the Equinox's 185-hp engine.
#19- Jaguar XK
The redesigned XK is the most technically advanced Jaguar ever built. A new lightweight aluminium structure is more rigid than before, which allows sporty handling and a quiet, comfortable ride. Its 4.2-litre V8 is rated at 300-hp.
#20-Mercedes-Benz C-Class
The C-Class, the entry-level of the Mercedes lineup, is the latest model from the German automaker to get a complete redesign. Longer and wider than its predecessor, the 2008 C-Class offers a roomier interior with an increased level of safety and luxury.
The Top 20 models on Sympatico / MSN Autos
From September 1 to September 30, 2007
1- Lamborghini Gallardo
2- Acura TL
3- Nissan 350Z
4- Hummer H3
5- Maybach
6- BMW 3-Series
7- Subaru Impreza
8- Nissan Sentra
9- Bentley Continental GT
10- Mazda3
11- Mitsubishi Lancer
12- Rolls-Royce Phantom
13- Honda CR-V
14- Nissan Altima
15- Maserati Quattroporte
16- Honda Civic
17- GMC Acadia
18- Pontiac Torrent
19- Jaguar XK Series
20- Mercedes-Benz C-Class
By Isaac
Adams-HandsEvery month, several hundred thousand visitors read through and research their favourite vehicles on Sympatico / MSN Autos, Canada’s top independent automotive web site.
With a rich resource of about 280 different vehicle lines featured on Sympatico / MSN Autos, we believe our monthly rankings offer an accurate reflection of what interests our readers and shoppers.
Which leads us to our list of the Top 20 vehicle models for September, as chosen by our readers:
#1- Lamborghini Gallardo
Lamborghini has taken its already impressive Gallardo coupe and made it even more extreme. Through the extensive use of lightweight materials such as carbon fibre, the weight of the new Gallardo Superleggera model was reduced by 100 kilograms (220 lbs) while the power of the engine was increased by 10 for a total of 530-hp.
#2- Acura TL
The Acura TL is a mid-size, entry-level luxury sedan, and it is currently Acura's best-selling model. Though the TL typically does not deliver the excitement or prestige of competing European sedans, it counters with exceptional value and above-average durability and reliability.
#3- Nissan 350Z
Announced at Geneva Motor Show, the Nissan 350Z will now have an improved 3.5-litre V6, along with a slew of other changes: a new dual air intake system, more flexible variable valve timing, and a higher rev limit thanks to upgraded load bearing components and an asymmetric piston pattern.
#4- Hummer H3As fuel prices steadily climbed throughout North America in 2007, many consumers thought that would spell the death of big Hummer. However, the strong presence of these go-anywhere vehicles has kept interest alive with a new H3 that boasts a 5.3-litre V8 engine producing 300 horsepower.
#5- Maybach
The new flagship model in the Maybach lineup is the Maybach 62 S, an ultra-luxury sedan that nevertheless delivers levels of performance that are usually expected only from an exotic sports car; effectively rocketing from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds, while maintaining the extraordinary luxury and comfort.
#6- BMW 3-Series
Although the 3-Series is BMW's current entry-level model, it is hardly an entry-level vehicle.
The 3-Series is offered in a sedan, coupe, convertible and wagon form, powered by either a 2.5-litre, naturally-aspirated inline six or a twin-turbo 300-hp variant, with rear-wheel or all-wheel drive.#7- Subaru Impreza
Subaru is aware that the small band of WRX fanatics will be unhappy with the new look, but is willing to trade that for wider acceptance in the largest segment of the Canadian market. Hopefully this gamble will pay off because the new 2008 Impreza might be the best bargain in the compact class.
#8- Nissan SentraWhen it was redesigned for 2007, the Nissan Sentra compact sedan finally became competitive with the likes of the class-leading Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla - after having trailed the Ford Focus and perhaps even the Chevrolet Cobalt. Regular Sentras come in base 2.0, 2.0 S and 2.0 SL trim levels.
#9- Bentley Continental GT
Earlier this year, the GT broke the World Ice Speed Record on the frozen Baltic Sea, reaching a maximum speed of 331 km/h (207 mph). The Bentley was largely standard except for a roll-cage, some aerodynamic improvements, low-temperature fuel, and Nokian studded tires.
#10- Mazda3
The Mazda3 hasn't lost any steam since it was introduced and Voted Best New Economy Car and Canadian Car of the Year in 2004 by AJAC. Matched with Mazda quality, sporty styling, increased cargo carrying ability, competitive pricing and pleasurable handling, it makes it a perfect car for "fresh out of University, new to the workforce" youth market, and more.
#11- Mitsubishi Lancer
The fully redesigned 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer shares a new platform with the recently-introduced Outlander compact SUV. The base Lancer has a new economical 152-hp 2.0-litre DOHC 4-cylinder engine with MIVEC variable valve timing that also delivers 146 lb-ft of torque. The legendary, rally-inspired, turbocharged Lancer Evo X is coming soon...#12- Rolls-Royce Phantom
For 2008 Rolls-Royce will add a second model: the all-new Phantom Drophead Coupé. The Phantom goes on sale this year with a base price of around $500,000, making it the most expensive convertible on the Canadian market.
#13- Honda CR-V
Originally launched in 1997, the CR-V was thoroughly redesigned for 2007. This slick, city-friendly compact sport-utility is now powered by a smooth, torquey and lively 166-horsepower, 2.4-litre inline four-cylinder engine.
#14- Nissan Altima
Sporting a comprehensive redesign for 2007, the fourth-generation Nissan Altima is built on the new Nissan "D" platform that offers a more rigid body and redesigned suspension components. The vehicle also gets an upgrade in distinctive interior and exterior styling cues, similar to those of the Infiniti lineup.
#15- Maserati Quattroporte
The Quattroporte sport sedan is designed to combine the materials and comforts of a luxury automobile with the capabilities of a high-performance sports car. It delivers with a powerful V8 engine positioned behind the front axle, resulting in a balance of 49 per cent of the weight in front, 51 per cent in the rear.
#16- Honda CivicHonda first introduced the Civic in the early 1970s as a small, dependable, and inexpensive car. Today, the Civic is offered in a coupe, sedan, or hybrid version. Although the size has increased since the 70s, the fuel economy numbers remains excellent. The Civic has also been Canada's best-selling car for a number of years.
#17- GMC Acadia
The GMC Acadia offers a standard 7-passenger interior (front buckets, second-row buckets and a third-row bench). The engine is a 3.6-litre, 275-hp V6 with variable valve timing, coupled with GM's new 6-speed automatic transmission, available in front or all-wheel drive configurations.
#18- Pontiac Torrent
Sharing its basic body structure and mechanicals with the Equinox; the Torrent has a different front and rear end which makes it appear like a Pontiac rather than a Chevrolet. The suspension and power steering was also modified to be firmer and sportier. The Torrent shares the Equinox's 185-hp engine.
#19- Jaguar XK
The redesigned XK is the most technically advanced Jaguar ever built. A new lightweight aluminium structure is more rigid than before, which allows sporty handling and a quiet, comfortable ride. Its 4.2-litre V8 is rated at 300-hp.
#20-Mercedes-Benz C-Class
The C-Class, the entry-level of the Mercedes lineup, is the latest model from the German automaker to get a complete redesign. Longer and wider than its predecessor, the 2008 C-Class offers a roomier interior with an increased level of safety and luxury.
The Top 20 models on Sympatico / MSN Autos
From September 1 to September 30, 2007
1- Lamborghini Gallardo
2- Acura TL
3- Nissan 350Z
4- Hummer H3
5- Maybach
6- BMW 3-Series
7- Subaru Impreza
8- Nissan Sentra
9- Bentley Continental GT
10- Mazda3
11- Mitsubishi Lancer
12- Rolls-Royce Phantom
13- Honda CR-V
14- Nissan Altima
15- Maserati Quattroporte
16- Honda Civic
17- GMC Acadia
18- Pontiac Torrent
19- Jaguar XK Series
20- Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Friday, April 25, 2008
2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1
The Carbon Fibre version ,Corvette ZR1
638. That's the number of SAE-certified horsepower packed into the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1's supercharged 6.2-liter V-8, along with 604 lb-ft of torque. The supercharger has a displacement of 2.3 liters with a maximum boost pressure of 10.5 psi. The most powerful production engine to ever come out from a GM factory boasts 103 horsepower per liter and will propel the "Blue Devil" to a top speed that is well over 200 mph.
GM expects the Corvette ZR1 to be the most fuel-efficient 600-horsepower-plus car on the market, which isn't an outlandish statement considering the near-single-digit fuel economy numbers posted by the likes of the Lamborghini Murcielago LP640 and others. GM took measures to ensure that the engine would have reliability comparable to the rest of the small-block family. According to GM powertrain engine engineering executive director Sam Windgarden, "Developing the LS9 involved more than simply striving for a great horsepower number. Endurance and reliability testing have shown the engine to be robust and low-maintenance, just like other engines in the small-block family"
LS9 Need to Know:
* Aluminum cylinder block with iron cylinder liners that are finish-bored and honed with a deck plate installed * Forged steel crankshaft with a nine-bolt flange* Titanium connecting rods and forged aluminum pistons* Stronger, cylinder heads with 2.16-inch (55 mm) titanium intake valves and 1.59-inch (40.4 mm) hollow-stem, sodium-filled exhaust valves* Camshaft with 0.555-inch (14.1 mm) lift for excellent idle and low-speed driving qualities* A dry-sump oiling system with 10.5-quart (9.9 liters) capacity* Integrated oil cooler and piston-cooling oil squirters* Intercooler cover visible through the hood window that features ZR1-unique blue accents and "LS9 SUPERCHARGED" embossed on the left and right sides
Check out the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 First Look to get the full story on this landmark American supercar and its over-the-top powerful LS9 engine.
2008 Dodge viper
The Legend Continues.....We'll take credit for being the first to notice that the cover of Road & Track's February issue gave up the goods on the 600-hp power rating of the 2008 Dodge Viper SRT-10, but we'll pass the honor of being the first to post the Viper's catalogue of press material to our friends over at Jalopnik who, in turn, acted only after said Feb. issue of R&T was released to the public. The snake's out of the bag now, and the big news is a bump in displacement for the Viper's V10 motor from 8.3 liters to 8.4, which is accompanied by a corresponding increase in power to the aforementioned 600 hp (up 90 hp) and 560 ft-lbs. of torque (an increase of 25). As many already know, McLaren Performance Technologies (the U.S. company, not the German one associated with Mercedes-Benz) assisted Dodge in massaging the V10, though one could still argue that with 8.4-liters of displacement, the Viper's engine is still not reaching its full potential. The only change to the car's exterior is the new hood with six vents that will help dissipate the crazy amount of heat coming from below. Of course, heat will likely waft off the new Viper pretty fast considering its owners will be able to reach 60 mph even faster, sometime in the mid to high 3-second range, and return back to 0 mph in less than 100 ft. There's lots more to learn about the new Viper, so check out more info and the full press release after the jump, and don't forget to gander at our mega high-res gallery of Dodge's updated halo car with a total of 22 pics you can use as your desktop wallpaper. [Source: Dodge, Jalopnik]Other improvements to the Dodge Viper including a beefed up Tremec T56 six-speed transmission and twin-disc clutch that replaces the current model's single-disc unit. A new limited-slip diff supposedly allows the engine's grunt to get to the ground more often than before, and the Viper's tires are now longer run-flats, though they're still the same size. In the realm of style, customers can now order their Viper with three wheel designs and five new colors including Venom Red, Snakeskin Green, Viper Violet, Viper Orange and Bright Blue.PRESS RELEASE:Even More Venom: Dodge Unleashes New 600-horsepower 2008 Viper SRT10
Additional 90 horsepower on tap from new 8.4-liter Viper SRT10 V-10 engine
Dramatic new hood features restyled, functional air extractors
0-60 mph in under four seconds, 0-100-0 mph in just over 12 seconds, braking in under 100 feet
New exterior, interior colors provide customers with increased customization options The new 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 boasts more of what performance aficionados crave: kick-in-the-pants, throw-back-in-the-seat power, combined with benchmark braking, world-class ride and handling, a race-inspired interior and bold exterior styling.While every SRT vehicle offers balanced, overall performance, the heart and soul of the new 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 is its standout powertrain. For 2008, SRT ups the ante with a new, 8.4-liter aluminum V-10 engine that produces an astounding 600 horsepower and 560 lb.-ft. of torque."A legendary big-game hunter once said, 'Bring enough gun!' – and with the new 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10, we've created some very powerful artillery for sports-car enthusiasts," said Kipp Owen, Director – Street and Racing Technology (SRT) Engineering, Chrysler Group. "With 600 horsepower – 90 more than before - and 0-to-60 performance in less than four seconds, the 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 sets a new benchmark for the ultimate American sports car."The new 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 will arrive in Dodge showrooms in North America this summer with a new level of customization options, including five new exterior colors, four new interior color combinations and a new wheel design.Standout PowertrainWhen SRT powertrain engineers set out to get more venom from the 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10's powerplant, their objectives included not only increasing performance, but also complying with stringent regulatory requirements, such as federal Tier 2, Bin 5 and California's Low Emissions Vehicle (LEV) 2 mandates.Working with specialists from McLaren Performance Technologies and Ricardo, Inc., SRT engineers began by following the racer's basic formula for more power: bigger displacement, more efficient breathing and higher engine speed.The new Dodge Viper SRT10's deep-skirted V-10 aluminum engine block was revised for a 1-millimeter larger bore, raising the displacement to 8.4 liters from 8.3 liters. With strengthened bulkheads and improved water jackets for better cooling, the block includes pressed-in iron cylinder liners and cross-bolted main bearing caps for strength and durability.The Viper SRT10's 8.4-liter engine breathes through new cylinder heads equipped with Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC)-shaped combustion chambers, larger valves and Variable Valve Timing (VVT).
VVT electronically adjusts when the exhaust valves are open and closed according to engine speed and load, allowing the engine to "breathe" cleaner and more efficiently.The 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 V-10's two-piece intake manifold combines a cast aluminum lower with smooth runners for better air flow, bolted to a die-cast aluminum upper plenum. A revised air-cleaner box with a low-restriction filter sends air through a dual electronic throttle control into the intake module.The air-fuel mixture in the cylinders is ignited by platinum-tip spark plugs fired by new individual plug coils mounted on the cylinder-head covers.Within the cylinders, pistons are equipped with larger-diameter floating pins with bronze bushings for high-load capability. Forged powder-metal connecting rods are secured with aircraft-quality fasteners for increased fatigue strength.Engine lubrication is managed by a larger oil pump and a swinging oil pickup adapted from Viper competition engines, to improve oil pressure in high-rpm and hard-cornering conditions.Spent gases exit through tubular air-gap headers, which not only improve exhaust flow, but also ensure quick catalyst light-off for improved emission control. The headers' stamped stainless-steel outer shell acts as a thermal heat shield for the individual stainless-steel runners that contribute to better flow separation and exhaust tuning.SRT engineers didn't stop there. Upgrades were developed to handle the 8.4-liter V-10's increased horsepower and torque levels, while improving traction, driveability – and durability. The 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10's V-10 channels its power through a new, smaller-diameter, twin-disc clutch (a change from the previous larger-diameter, single-disc setup). The new clutch reduces rotating inertia by 18 percent, resulting in reduced clutch-pedal effort and improved engagement feel.The transmission is the latest evolution of the Tremec T56 six-speed manual, known as the TR6060. It features 10 percent wider gears for higher torque capacity and a new synchronizer package. A new shifter system results in reduced shifter travel. Club racers will applaud a new provision for adding an external transmission cooler.Benchmark BrakingStopping power is another key attribute of the Dodge Viper SRT10 formula, with 14-inch brake rotors gripped by Brembo 44/40 dual opposing piston calipers in the front and Brembo 42/38 dual opposing calipers in the rear. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) prevents lockup during hard braking. This system results in a benchmark braking performance of 60-to-0 mph in less than 100 feet. World-class Ride and HandlingThe ride and handling of the 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 is defined by a race-bred, fully independent, four-wheel suspension featuring lightweight, high-performance aluminum control arms and knuckles, damped by lightweight coil-over shock absorbers. Where the power goes right to the road, SRT engineers retained the tried-and-true Dana M44-4 rear axle and outfitted it with a new GKN Visco-Lok speed-sensing limited-slip differential for improved traction.The Dodge Viper SRT10 rides on polished, forged aluminum, 18 x 10-inch front and 19 x 13-inch rear wheels now available in three styles: the five-spoke, the H-spoke and the all-new 
Razor wheel with five U-shaped spokes. The wheels are clad in Michelin® Pilot® Sport PS2 tires. The four-groove tread-design tires provide maximum grip, reduced road noise and superior handling in both wet and dry conditions. Bold Exterior StylingThe 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 remains available in two body styles – Roadster and Coupe. Both feature a dramatic new hood with a larger, more efficient hood scoop for air induction and larger, functional hood louvers to facilitate a greater cooling effect for the more powerful 8.4-liter, 600-horsepower V-10 engine underneath.Eight exterior colors will be introduced throughout the model year – five of which are all-new including Venom Red, Snakeskin Green, Viper Violet, Viper Orange and Bright Blue. Racing stripes continue to be an option with six dual painted stripe colors available: white, black, silver, graphite, blue and red.Several exterior differences exist between the 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 Roadster and Coupe. In fact, the only body panels they share are front fascia and fenders, hood and doors. However, all of the iconic Viper SRT10 design cues have been maintained including the signature crosshair grille, deep-cut side scallops, swept-back fenders and lowered hood lines.The Dodge Viper SRT10 Coupe's hard top with its "double bubble" styling makes it even more torsionally stiff than the Roadster. The 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 Coupe offers increased downforce and high-speed stability with its sloping roofline and deck-lid spoiler. Plus, the Dodge Viper SRT10 Coupe has an additional 6.25 cubic feet of trunk space than the Viper SRT10 Roadster, for a total of 14.65 cubic feet. The roof and headliner structure offer more room to accommodate a safety cage, while maintaining as much headroom as possible.Race-inspired Interior DesignThe 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 Roadster and Coupe cockpit retains its characteristic red push-button starter and performance-oriented, highly functional instrument panel with center-mounted tachometer and 220-mph speedometer.Five interior colors will be available in 2008: black, and four new color combinations in black/red, black/blue, black/slate or black/natural tan. A choice of bezel finishes on the center instrument panel and console adds to the increased level of customization. "The 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 delivers die-hard performance enthusiasts a perfect combination of outrageous power, exceptional performance and stunning good looks," said Mike Accavitti, Director – Dodge Motorsports and SRT Marketing and Product Planning. "And now with a whole new range of interior and exterior colors and options to choose from, the 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 redefines how a customer can personalize their Viper."2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 Safety and SecurityThe following safety and security technologies are featured on the 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10:
Adjustable Pedals: Allow brake and accelerator pedals to move toward or away from the driver to help driver achieve a safe and comfortable seating position for improved control
Advanced Multistage Front Air Bags with Occupant Classification System (OCS): Inflates with a force appropriate to the severity of the impact. The OCS measures the conditions for activation or deactivation of the passenger side front air bag based upon the weight of the occupant
Anti-lock Brake System (ABS): Senses and preven
ts wheel lockup, offering improved steering control under extreme braking or slippery conditions
BeltAlert: Periodically activates a chime and illuminates an icon in the instrument cluster to remind the driver and front passenger to buckle up if a vehicle is driven without the driver being properly belted
Center High-mounted Stop Lamp (CHMSL): The shelf-mounted center high mounted stop lamp uses light emitting diodes (LEDs) for longer life
Constant Force Retractors (CFR): Distribute force or load exerted on a seat belt, and then gradually release the seat belt webbing in a controlled manner
Crumple Zones: Designed to compress during an accident to absorb energy, decreasing transfer of that energy to the occupants
Energy-absorbing Steering Column: The manual-adjust steering column uses two hydroformed coaxial tubes that can move relative to each other to allow the column to move forward for enhanced energy absorption during a crash. The power-adjust steering column employs a calibrated bending element that deforms during column stroke for optimal energy management
Interior Head-impact Protection: Interior pillars above the beltline and instrument panel – including areas around windshield and rear window headers, roof and side rail structures, and shoulder-belt turning loops – specifically designed to limit head-impact force
Knee Bolsters: The lower instrument panel and the glove-box door are designed to properly position the occupant, enabling the air bags to work effectively
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE): System enhances personal security by locking and unlocking doors and turning on interior lamps. The system also arms and disarms the Vehicle Theft Security Alarm
Three-point Seat Belts with Pretensioners: Three-point lap and shoulder belt retractors incorporate a pretensioning feature to enhance occupant protection in an impact by managing occupant energy
Tire-pressure Monitoring (TPM): Pressure-sensor modules within the valve stems of all four wheels send continuous radio-frequency signals to a receiver, and the system informs occupants when the pressure is too low.ManufacturingThe 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 will be hand-built at the Conner Avenue Assembly Plant in Detroit.
Additional 90 horsepower on tap from new 8.4-liter Viper SRT10 V-10 engineDramatic new hood features restyled, functional air extractors
0-60 mph in under four seconds, 0-100-0 mph in just over 12 seconds, braking in under 100 feet
New exterior, interior colors provide customers with increased customization options The new 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 boasts more of what performance aficionados crave: kick-in-the-pants, throw-back-in-the-seat power, combined with benchmark braking, world-class ride and handling, a race-inspired interior and bold exterior styling.While every SRT vehicle offers balanced, overall performance, the heart and soul of the new 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 is its standout powertrain. For 2008, SRT ups the ante with a new, 8.4-liter aluminum V-10 engine that produces an astounding 600 horsepower and 560 lb.-ft. of torque."A legendary big-game hunter once said, 'Bring enough gun!' – and with the new 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10, we've created some very powerful artillery for sports-car enthusiasts," said Kipp Owen, Director – Street and Racing Technology (SRT) Engineering, Chrysler Group. "With 600 horsepower – 90 more than before - and 0-to-60 performance in less than four seconds, the 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 sets a new benchmark for the ultimate American sports car."The new 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 will arrive in Dodge showrooms in North America this summer with a new level of customization options, including five new exterior colors, four new interior color combinations and a new wheel design.Standout PowertrainWhen SRT powertrain engineers set out to get more venom from the 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10's powerplant, their objectives included not only increasing performance, but also complying with stringent regulatory requirements, such as federal Tier 2, Bin 5 and California's Low Emissions Vehicle (LEV) 2 mandates.Working with specialists from McLaren Performance Technologies and Ricardo, Inc., SRT engineers began by following the racer's basic formula for more power: bigger displacement, more efficient breathing and higher engine speed.The new Dodge Viper SRT10's deep-skirted V-10 aluminum engine block was revised for a 1-millimeter larger bore, raising the displacement to 8.4 liters from 8.3 liters. With strengthened bulkheads and improved water jackets for better cooling, the block includes pressed-in iron cylinder liners and cross-bolted main bearing caps for strength and durability.The Viper SRT10's 8.4-liter engine breathes through new cylinder heads equipped with Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC)-shaped combustion chambers, larger valves and Variable Valve Timing (VVT).
VVT electronically adjusts when the exhaust valves are open and closed according to engine speed and load, allowing the engine to "breathe" cleaner and more efficiently.The 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 V-10's two-piece intake manifold combines a cast aluminum lower with smooth runners for better air flow, bolted to a die-cast aluminum upper plenum. A revised air-cleaner box with a low-restriction filter sends air through a dual electronic throttle control into the intake module.The air-fuel mixture in the cylinders is ignited by platinum-tip spark plugs fired by new individual plug coils mounted on the cylinder-head covers.Within the cylinders, pistons are equipped with larger-diameter floating pins with bronze bushings for high-load capability. Forged powder-metal connecting rods are secured with aircraft-quality fasteners for increased fatigue strength.Engine lubrication is managed by a larger oil pump and a swinging oil pickup adapted from Viper competition engines, to improve oil pressure in high-rpm and hard-cornering conditions.Spent gases exit through tubular air-gap headers, which not only improve exhaust flow, but also ensure quick catalyst light-off for improved emission control. The headers' stamped stainless-steel outer shell acts as a thermal heat shield for the individual stainless-steel runners that contribute to better flow separation and exhaust tuning.SRT engineers didn't stop there. Upgrades were developed to handle the 8.4-liter V-10's increased horsepower and torque levels, while improving traction, driveability – and durability. The 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10's V-10 channels its power through a new, smaller-diameter, twin-disc clutch (a change from the previous larger-diameter, single-disc setup). The new clutch reduces rotating inertia by 18 percent, resulting in reduced clutch-pedal effort and improved engagement feel.The transmission is the latest evolution of the Tremec T56 six-speed manual, known as the TR6060. It features 10 percent wider gears for higher torque capacity and a new synchronizer package. A new shifter system results in reduced shifter travel. Club racers will applaud a new provision for adding an external transmission cooler.Benchmark BrakingStopping power is another key attribute of the Dodge Viper SRT10 formula, with 14-inch brake rotors gripped by Brembo 44/40 dual opposing piston calipers in the front and Brembo 42/38 dual opposing calipers in the rear. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) prevents lockup during hard braking. This system results in a benchmark braking performance of 60-to-0 mph in less than 100 feet. World-class Ride and HandlingThe ride and handling of the 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 is defined by a race-bred, fully independent, four-wheel suspension featuring lightweight, high-performance aluminum control arms and knuckles, damped by lightweight coil-over shock absorbers. Where the power goes right to the road, SRT engineers retained the tried-and-true Dana M44-4 rear axle and outfitted it with a new GKN Visco-Lok speed-sensing limited-slip differential for improved traction.The Dodge Viper SRT10 rides on polished, forged aluminum, 18 x 10-inch front and 19 x 13-inch rear wheels now available in three styles: the five-spoke, the H-spoke and the all-new 
Razor wheel with five U-shaped spokes. The wheels are clad in Michelin® Pilot® Sport PS2 tires. The four-groove tread-design tires provide maximum grip, reduced road noise and superior handling in both wet and dry conditions. Bold Exterior StylingThe 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 remains available in two body styles – Roadster and Coupe. Both feature a dramatic new hood with a larger, more efficient hood scoop for air induction and larger, functional hood louvers to facilitate a greater cooling effect for the more powerful 8.4-liter, 600-horsepower V-10 engine underneath.Eight exterior colors will be introduced throughout the model year – five of which are all-new including Venom Red, Snakeskin Green, Viper Violet, Viper Orange and Bright Blue. Racing stripes continue to be an option with six dual painted stripe colors available: white, black, silver, graphite, blue and red.Several exterior differences exist between the 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 Roadster and Coupe. In fact, the only body panels they share are front fascia and fenders, hood and doors. However, all of the iconic Viper SRT10 design cues have been maintained including the signature crosshair grille, deep-cut side scallops, swept-back fenders and lowered hood lines.The Dodge Viper SRT10 Coupe's hard top with its "double bubble" styling makes it even more torsionally stiff than the Roadster. The 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 Coupe offers increased downforce and high-speed stability with its sloping roofline and deck-lid spoiler. Plus, the Dodge Viper SRT10 Coupe has an additional 6.25 cubic feet of trunk space than the Viper SRT10 Roadster, for a total of 14.65 cubic feet. The roof and headliner structure offer more room to accommodate a safety cage, while maintaining as much headroom as possible.Race-inspired Interior DesignThe 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 Roadster and Coupe cockpit retains its characteristic red push-button starter and performance-oriented, highly functional instrument panel with center-mounted tachometer and 220-mph speedometer.Five interior colors will be available in 2008: black, and four new color combinations in black/red, black/blue, black/slate or black/natural tan. A choice of bezel finishes on the center instrument panel and console adds to the increased level of customization. "The 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 delivers die-hard performance enthusiasts a perfect combination of outrageous power, exceptional performance and stunning good looks," said Mike Accavitti, Director – Dodge Motorsports and SRT Marketing and Product Planning. "And now with a whole new range of interior and exterior colors and options to choose from, the 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 redefines how a customer can personalize their Viper."2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 Safety and SecurityThe following safety and security technologies are featured on the 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10:Adjustable Pedals: Allow brake and accelerator pedals to move toward or away from the driver to help driver achieve a safe and comfortable seating position for improved control
Advanced Multistage Front Air Bags with Occupant Classification System (OCS): Inflates with a force appropriate to the severity of the impact. The OCS measures the conditions for activation or deactivation of the passenger side front air bag based upon the weight of the occupant
Anti-lock Brake System (ABS): Senses and preven
ts wheel lockup, offering improved steering control under extreme braking or slippery conditionsBeltAlert: Periodically activates a chime and illuminates an icon in the instrument cluster to remind the driver and front passenger to buckle up if a vehicle is driven without the driver being properly belted
Center High-mounted Stop Lamp (CHMSL): The shelf-mounted center high mounted stop lamp uses light emitting diodes (LEDs) for longer life
Constant Force Retractors (CFR): Distribute force or load exerted on a seat belt, and then gradually release the seat belt webbing in a controlled manner
Crumple Zones: Designed to compress during an accident to absorb energy, decreasing transfer of that energy to the occupants
Energy-absorbing Steering Column: The manual-adjust steering column uses two hydroformed coaxial tubes that can move relative to each other to allow the column to move forward for enhanced energy absorption during a crash. The power-adjust steering column employs a calibrated bending element that deforms during column stroke for optimal energy management
Interior Head-impact Protection: Interior pillars above the beltline and instrument panel – including areas around windshield and rear window headers, roof and side rail structures, and shoulder-belt turning loops – specifically designed to limit head-impact force
Knee Bolsters: The lower instrument panel and the glove-box door are designed to properly position the occupant, enabling the air bags to work effectively
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE): System enhances personal security by locking and unlocking doors and turning on interior lamps. The system also arms and disarms the Vehicle Theft Security Alarm
Three-point Seat Belts with Pretensioners: Three-point lap and shoulder belt retractors incorporate a pretensioning feature to enhance occupant protection in an impact by managing occupant energy
Tire-pressure Monitoring (TPM): Pressure-sensor modules within the valve stems of all four wheels send continuous radio-frequency signals to a receiver, and the system informs occupants when the pressure is too low.ManufacturingThe 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 will be hand-built at the Conner Avenue Assembly Plant in Detroit.
Dodge Challenger
Chrysler finally unveils the Canadian-built production version of the latest player in the Great American Pony Car revival.
Icons from the Golden Age of Pony Cars and Muscle Cars, all three of them: Ford launched a born-again Mustang, to great acclaim and success, in 2005. Chevrolet is putting the final touches to an all-new Camaro that was a hit at the 2006 Detroit Auto Show. But Chrysler will beat the General to the punch by launching an all-new Challenger next April, across the continent.
Its own Dodge Challenger concept had also been a hit at the '06 Detroit show. The battle is definitely on, and the house of Mopar won't be last to join the Pony Car party as it was with the original Challenger, launched in 1969 as a 1970 model.
After the extremely positive public and critical reaction to the Challenger concept, Chrysler chose the 2008 Chicago Auto Show to reveal the production-ready version. Workers will soon start assembling the performance coupe at Chrysler's Brampton, Ontario plant. Every Challenger SRT8 coming off that assembly line will bear a numbered plaque attesting the limited-edition nature of the latest in a rich collection of horsepower-rich vehicles developed by Chrysler's "performance engineering organization", the SRT group.
The Challenger is scheduled to go on sale in April, 2008, with a suggested retail price of $37,995, including the destination charge. This figure was quoted in US dollars at the Chicago intro. It will be offered in three different colours: Hemi Orange, Bright Silver Metallic or Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl Coat.
Plenty of proven musclePerformance enthusiasts The Challenger is powered by the same overhead-valve, 6.1-litre, 'Hemi' V8 engine as used on the SRT8 specials that were derived from the Charger, 300 and Jeep Grand Cherokee families.
This engine produces generous (estimated) maximum outputs of 425 horsepower at 6200 rpm and 420 lb-ft of torque at 4800 rpm on a recommended liquid diet of super unleaded with a minimum octane rating of 91. Chrysler is projecting standing start acceleration times in the mid-5 second range for the 0-100 km/h dash, and less than 13 seconds over the traditional quarter mile.
All this muscle is channelled through an electronically-controlled five-speed automatic gearbox lock-up torque converter and Chrysler's 'side-to-side-tap' AutoStick manual shift mode. Sorry, purists: no manual gearbox for this one.
The Challenger's performance and handling further benefit from its standard brake-lock differential and a specially-calibrated version of Chrysler's ESP (Electronic Stability Program) stability control system, one of several positive technical legacies of former corporate parent Mercedes-Benz. It naturally includes all-speed traction control.
... And some solid legsThe two-door coupe is built on a modified version of the proven, solid rear-wheel-drive LX platform that underpins the Dodge Charger sedan, itself derived from the acclaimed and successful Chrysler 300 sedan's chassis. Its 116-inch (295 cm) wheelbase is four inches (10 cm) shorter than the four-door Charger's.
Contrary to its famous forebears from the Sixties, the new Challenger SRT8 is no straight-line rocket exclusively. The car has all-independent suspension units, with a multi-link, short/long arm arrangement in front and five links for each rear wheel. Front and rear stabilizer bars are included, for positive control of body roll while cornering.And there should be plenty of grip available for cornering, since the Challenger rides on a set of 20-inch diameter forged-alloy wheels draped with either Goodyear Eagle RS-A 'all-season' tires or optional 'three-season' Goodyear F1 Supercar performance rubber.
SRT models are known for their strong braking, and the Challenger SRT8 should be no exception. It has large disc brakes at all four corners, with red-painted, four-piston callipers provided by famed Italian brake specialist Brembo. The brakes' ventilated rotors are 360 in diameter at the front and 350 mm at the rear. This state-of-the-art braking system includes antilock (ABS), of course, but also a Brake Assist mode that automatically invokes and applies full stopping force in an emergency situation.
Chrysler is claiming 60-0 mph emergency braking distances of 110 feet (33.5 metres) which would indeed be excepti1onal if verified, which we plan to do at the earliest possible opportunity.
Safety and comfort very much includedThe new Challenger SRT8 is a far cry from its brawny, bare-knuckles ancestors from the Sixties and early Seventies. Dodge claims no less than twenty-eight safety-related systems and features for its new performance coupe, ranging from multistage frontal and side-curtain airbags to xenon headlights.
The car's exterior design might have been directly inspired by an iconic Pony Car from the 70's, but the new Challenger is unquestionably 21st century for its comfort, equipment and the technology it can pack. The design itself is in the classic mould, in keeping with the theme. The front leather bucket seats are deeply sculpted, racing-style, which should help in hard cornering. There is some special stitching on the leather seats - as well as some orange accent stripes - but also on the classic, three-spoke, leather-draped steering wheel.
Straight ahead, the driver sees four large, traditional round analog gauges with tachometer and 300-km/h speedometer in the center, as it should. The Challenger's dashboard is also equipped with a unique reconfigurable electronic display that can "provide drivers instant feedback" on things such as acceleration times, full-on braking distances, and the lateral acceleration (g-force) sustained in corners. I say: watch the road or the track, buddy.
For relaxed cruising and 'normal' driving, the Challenger has plenty to keep the crew both informed and entertained, including standard items such as a 13-speaker Kicker High Performance audio system with 322-watt amplifier and 200-watt subwoofer, plus Sirius satellite radio reception. Also available,
A hard-disk based MyGIG 'infotainment' system, a navigation system, 'Keyless Go' entry and UConnect hands-free communication are all available too.
With all this; the striking shape, the promised performance and handling, the safety systems and the myriad electronic toys... er; accessories, I sincerely doubt that a modern-day Kowalski would consider crashing his Challenger SRT8 into a pair of bulldozers at full speed as did his namesake in the 1970 cult action/road movie classic Vanishing Point.
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