Bear with me as I step back in time to formulate what I believe are three terrific American built performance cars: the Ford Mustang, the Dodge Challenger, and the Chevrolet Camaro. Currently, only the Mustang is in production with the Challenger coming back by 2009. GM hasn’t committed to building the Camaro just yet, but the company is likely to make a decision in favor of the car and its sibling, the Pontiac Firebird, by this summer. So, what is it about American performance cars that set them apart from the rest? In one word: muscle. Read on as I compare and contrast these three vehicles and share with you my feeble attempts to explain the culture behind the cars.

So, you think I forgot the Chevy Corvette and Dodge Viper when talking about performance cars? No, I did not. Both models are performance cars as well as race cars. On the other hand the Mustang, Challenger, and Camaro are mass produced performance cars with muscle. There is a difference in the way a typical race car handles, rides, and performs vs. a muscle car. 

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

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

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

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

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

No, I cannot wait to see a Mustang, Challenger, and Camaro lined up at a traffic light waiting for the light to turn green. A new muscle car era is upon us and for that I am very excited.

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Porsche Pulls From The Market Over 11 Thousand Own Cars. Withdraw from sale all of its 11,324 new four-seater “Panamera”.

Germany’s sports car manufacturer Porsche “(Porsche) announced that it withdrew from sale all of its 11,324 new four-seater ‘Panamera. The company spokesman said that “deliberate” withdrawal from the market of cars have had problems because of safety belts model. According to the spokesman, could be a problem with the placement of the belt when the front seats are too far removed. “Panamera” was presented on the market in September 2009 

Porsche is another car maker, which this year reported problems with their cars. In February, the French company Peugeot Citroen said it will withdraw 97 thousand cars, Peugeot 107 and Citroen C1 in the Czech plant. Days before the Japanese giant Toyota announced that millions of cars have problems with the accelerator. The largest automobile company in Europe – Germany’s Volkswagen also announced in February that withdrawing from the Mexican market around 20 thousand cars after it happened and its 200 thousand Porsche Pulls From The Market Over 11 Thousand Own Cars. Withdraw from sale all of its 11,324 new four-seater “Panamera”.

In December, the Italian automaker Fiat 500 thousand downloads of car models Grande Punto and Grande Punto Abarth “across Europe.

Welcome to Everything About Cars.

Cars own been an obsession for human beings from the time of this conception in the late 19th century.

If cars had a heart, it would no doubt be the gasoline engine.

A controversy in the 21st century, the gasoline engine has nonetheless withstood the test of time and is still being employed today in most modern cars.

Many people, if their budget supplies it, becoming collectors of cars. Throughout the years, thousands of models have made their entrance, had their time of glory, and made such a exit. Collecting vintage cars is a hobby sole available to individuals who can afford it, however, as it is pricey and requires a lot of garage space. The maintenance of cars is absolutely important to any collector; it should be of utmost importance that the cars be shiny, mechanically functional, and predicted to be taken for any whimsical spin deemed necessary.

For many, however, cars are little more than a functional tool of locomotion.

It is understandable then, which the controversy surrounding the gasoline engine has now reached drastic proportions. Cars can be powered by new-age hybrid motors which rely on an electrical back-up system-only using gasoline combustion when absolutely necessary. These motors can windfall cars reduce their emissions of carbon monoxide.

There is a coming years for cars – one that remains stylish yet adapts to the modern world’s needs. There ought to be nothing more luxurious than adapting classic cars to new, hybridized technologies. This is why the future for cars, car collectors, and environment-friendly functionalists is a bright one.

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Finding a quality used car deal is rough because of deceptive vehicle history records, shadowy lending and high-pressure sales tactics. Over the years a few bad dealers have tarnished this market by offering mechanically unsound cars and trucks at inflated prices. Also, the internet was not yet a viable method to evaluate a vehicle purchasing decision.

However, the last decade brought widespread change to the used car retail market. Legislatures made moves that brought heightened oversight on auto lending and has enacted steep penalties on violating dealerships. Also, some of the weaker used car lots fell victim to the recession; dealers who were selling bad cars and bad prices felt the wraith of the market.

While the small dealers were struggling, new car dealerships radically re-imagined their approach to marketing and selling used vehicles. Many saw the value in refurbishing their trade-in inventory to near-new conditions; this way, they could carry the reputation of the major dealership while grooming future new car customers.

Also the comfort of purchasing a vehicle from a major dealership is a real benefit. The entire experience has a more professional feel to it, from the paperwork to the waiting room to the vehicle preparation and delivery. The sales environment tends to be low-pressure because (honestly) the sales staff would rather be dealing with a new car purchaser with good credit and lots of money than a bargain-conscious used car shopper.

Most importantly, the after-sale experience is far superior at a major franchised car dealership. Offering a highly-trained and well-stocked service department, a new car dealership can apply the right expertise and the right parts in a timely fashion should vehicle problems arise. If their are major problems with the vehicle, buyers can be reassured by the fact that franchised car dealerships are major businesses that are responsible to the community; a car dealer’s reputation alone is worth making sure their customers are happy

Are you a resident of California? If yes, do you owe a car? Being in California it becomes important to have your own car in order to enjoy the life of the city as per your convenience. You cannot always rely on public transport. If new car is not affordable to you then look for some USA second hand cars which offers excellent comfort level to car buyers.

Now first you need to understand difference between used car and second hand car. Used cars are those which might have used by more then one owner, whereas second hand cars only alters single owner. When an owner owes new car and sells it for the first time, those cars are termed as second hand cars. In California these cars are good in demand and you also don’t have to make compromises in quality.

If you have made your mind to purchase California second hand cars, then look for the dealer who can guide in appropriate way. Here are some of the advantages and specialties of second hand cars in California:

Good bargain

If you are directly getting in touch with owner then it can help you out to effectively bargain. There might be various reasons for which owner looks out to sale the car like financial crisis, purchasing new car and so on. When owner is in a hurry to sale the car you can effectively bargain and get the car at affordable rates.

Car handled by single owner

Second hand cars are basically those which have just changed one owner and so you can find it in a better condition with good features. If a car changes more owners, its overall condition might be critical as everyone doe not handle car in a safer way. Rough handling of car decreases its life and it might not prove to be advantageous to purchase used car over second hand car.

Easy comparison of cost and features

In case of second hand car comparison become easy and this can help you out to take correct decision. If you are looking of cheap cars for sale that can provide you with excellent quality of features then second hand cars can help you the best. If you look for some dealer who can help you out in purchasing second hand car then make sure you get good choices. Dealers can effectively assist you in comparing features of different cars and their cost so that you can get the one that meets your need and fits in your budget.

Passing up swindles…extended warranties and California lemon law

California second hand cars go with lesser amount of risk as passing up of swindles here is quiet easy mainly due to California lemon law. It is consumer protection law which makes fights for the rights of consumer in case of fraud. You can also get extended warranties of second hand car which can make your investment worthwhile and would also develop trust among you.
 

THE ELEVENTH Beijing Auto show saw the focus on green technology, though car enthusiasts preferred to throng to the luxury car displays. The Beijing Auto Show 2010, which opened this Friday has seen several new car launches, from concept cars like the Ford Start to the hybrid Chevrolet Voltec, but these did not gain as much interest as the premium carmakers who unveiled their cars here.

The auto exhibitioon saw Ferrari bringing out the exclusive 599 GTO, Porsche showcasing Panamera 4, a bevy of Mercedes Benxz cars including the SLS AMG and the like. With the auto industry focusing on China as a potential market due to its economic growth, chinese car enthusiasts have much to feast their eyes on at this Auto show, which lasts till May 2.

Its not just the economic growth which has brought these brands here, but the spending on the auto industry. Last year China bought a whooping 13.6 million vehicles, while US, the top auto market till last year, purchased only 10.4 million vehicles.

And the most selling car models here are pricey, luxury ones. Luxury car makers like Mercedes and BMW are seeing their sales double in the first three months of 2010, as compared to 2009 BMW has taken note of this facet and announced boosting of sales in China by 20,000 cars here, thereby making China its third largest market.

Ian Robertson, BMW head of Sales said, “Nobody anticipated the growth here. Growth rates [like this] happen once in a lifetime in mature markets. Here, they’re happening every year.”

In fact, demand for BMW cars is particularly high end models like BMW series seven are so high, that there is a waiting list for car purchases here. In 2009, about 17000 BMW series 7 models were sold here.

Therefore, Audi’s decision to unveil its Audi A8 LW12 Quattro, at the Beijing AUto Show makes perfect sense. The car, made for the burgeoning number of Chinese millionaires who can easily afford it, has features like extra legroom and a footstool at the backseat, for customers here who prefer to have chauffeured cars. There is also Bang & Olufsen speakers, ambient lighting with rotating colors, a walnut folding table, a 10.2-inch LCD screen and massage chairs for backseat passengers.

Matthias Mueller, Audi A8 project leader explained this trend towards luxury cars further. He said, “For China, this car has to make a statement. It has to show you’ve ‘made it.’ ”

On the other hand, the focus on green technology at the Beijing Auto Show, is another key facet that has been seen here. Hybrids, clean technology and green technology which also made an appearence at several other auto shows this year, is being touted as the future of the car industry. However, the ground realities are much different and a shift towards this technology does not seem to be happening in the near future.

For more information related to Latest Car News and Auto Show News.

There are lots of people who look for a particular class of people to whom they want to sell their cars. These sellers look for people who are really ready to pay a good amount for the used car. Where to find these people is a big question and the answer is Online Classified. Classifieds provide multiple categories but the one with automobiles heading is of your use. This category is dedicated to used cars and other vehicles. You can search look for the ‘cars wanted’ ads. You can also make different searches to find out which website has maximum traffic and where you can get maximum customers. Most of the times, you will notice that the websites on the second and third page of your search results have better rankings and therefore of a better usage to the dealer.

The increasing craze in e-commerce has also added up to the online shopping business.

Many companies and brands are selling off their products online to their customers sitting in any part of the country. Following the scenario, the automobile industry has also stepped into the online trade. However, individuals can also execute this online selling process on their own. Brand new as well as used, both types of cars can be found on these online business websites. Apart from that there are also some online classified platforms where the dealers and customers are allowed to offer and accept the open ended deals respectively. The used cars can be offered to the consumers at the through the online portals where hundreds of thousands of people come in search for used cars daily.

Your source of advertising is one of the most important factors that count while selling your car. The way of communicating your offer to people matters a lot and therefore, it should be the one that is more common among ordinary consumers of cars.

You must have a very good knowledge of the market price of your car if you want to get the best price for your car. For this purpose, you can again refer some classifieds where you will easily get an idea about what price should be fixed for your vehicle.

When buying a sports car, you should consider how safe it is to drive. There are two kinds of safety features that you need to consider: functional safety and inactive safety.

Functional safety requires the features to prevent the automobiles from accidents. This includes efficient brakes, responsive grips and reliable suspension.  Below are some of these functional safety features. You should be aware of each feature so that you know when you have spotted your ideal sports car.

ELECTRONIC STABILITY SYSTEMS. This feature has the ability to sense when a car is out of control and intercedes the wheels by using discriminatory braking to specific wheels. It includes the traction controls and anti-lock brake system. This feature is seen mostly on luxury sports cars as it is expensive.

ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM or ABS lets automobiles to halt quickly and still continue to be easy to maneuver. Anti-lock brake systems are activated by using intense pressure so you need to learn how to do this. Do not just rely on moderate pressure to avoid sliding.

Effective TRACTION HANDLING helps cars maintain their grip even during acceleration. This feature is mostly suggested for rear-wheels as it helps reduce clog and the use of power-assisted brakes to a rotating wheel.

On the other hand, inactive safety features are those that protect the driver and other passengers whenever the functional safety features are unsuccessful. This includes the following:

Adjustable headrests are better called head restraints because this prevents the drivers head from snapping back and forth when there is a collision. It should be compatible with the occupants height to be more effective.

Most vehicles have airbags for a safety feature. Cars that have airbags for all passengers and cover the front and sides are ideal and important.

When you go for a test drive, remember to check the distance of the airbag from you – the most reliable gap is 10 inches away from the airbag. In order to do so, move the seat back to a relaxed position and check to make sure there is 10 inches between the airbag and yourself.

Seat belts are also an important feature in car safety. You should also check and make certain that there are workable seat belts. Seat belts can help save you and your family in case of car accidents. Make sure that the vehicle has adjustable shoulder belts so that the belt can be adjusted to correspond to the passengers height.

If you surf the Internet frequently, you would know about the various online used car dealers selling used cars in Adelaide, South Australia and Australia wide. Buying a used car Adelaide has for sale from these online car dealers is quite simple and easy. The emergence of online car dealers has made today’s car market very competitive. Especially in the case of used cars, these online car dealers have some of the best and widest options for their customers looking for a good quality, practical used car for sale.

Most of the online dealers of used cars in Adelaide would first ask you to provide information about the type of car you are looking for. For instance, you would need to provide information about the make and model of the car you are interested in, perhaps the year of manufacture, the price range for your budget, and a number of other things including whether you require car finance.

Once you provide them with all the relevant information, they will give you the details of most suitable used cars Adelaide has that they have in stock, which match your requirements, preferences, and budget. AA Family Motors make this process even easier due to the huge range of different makes and models to choose from, all at very cheap prices.

Buying a used car Australia wide from an online dealer is as simple and easy as buying a car from a local dealer. As a matter of fact, because of the great deals being offered at AA Family Motors, customers often find it more convenient to make the purchase of the used car South Australia has for sale through the website aafamilymotors.com.au because they are reliable online car dealers.

The majority of professional and reputed companies selling used cars in Adelaide include a 3 year used car warranty, which gives the customer piece of mind that should anything go wrong, they have some protection, which is important when purchasing used cars for sale online.

Finding an online dealer of used cars in Adelaide is also quite easy and hassle-free.

AA Family Motors is found with a simple search on leading search engines. And if you wish to get hold of the best used car deal available in the market, it would be wise to choose the used car dealer that customers recommend for a quality cheap used car; AA Family Motors. So, always make your purchase from the reliable and reputed online dealer of used cars in Adelaide; AA Family Motors. Log on to aafamilymotors.com.au to find more information about the dealer, and the huge range of used cars for sale online.

Nissan has just announced that it will start mass producing zero emission electric cars at its Tennessee plant by 2012. The plant will produce 100,000 affordable electric cars per year.
A good number of vehicle manufacturers worldwide have started producing electric cars as an alternative to conventional vehicles that use gasoline or diesel fuel. But the switch from gas to electric has not been quite successful in terms of usage and acceptability by consumers. The reason is they are not affordable.

Nissan has announced Tuesday that it will mass produce affordable zero-emission electric cars in its new retooled plant in Tennessee by 2012. The plant will produce 100,000 electric vehicles a year.

Nissan is set to unveil its first electric vehicle in Japan on August 2, 2009 and begin commercial sales next year. In 2012, Nissan will mass produce them in its Tennessee plant and sell them at affordable price. The company however did not say how affordable the price will be. But Calos Ghosn, Nissan CEO said that ‘if it’s not affordable it’s not going to work’.

“We are not going to come with a very high price. We are going to come with a reasonable price,” he said. “We are here to mass market them.”

Mnsbc.com reports:

Earlier in the month, Nissan’s smaller rival, Mitsubishi Motors Corp., launched its electric vehicle, the i-MiEV, with a price tag of 4.59 million yen (,300). Even the company acknowledged the i-MiEV is too pricey and said it aims to cut the price in the future.

Nissan has just received a loan of .1 billion from the US to retool the plant and mass produce the zero emission electric vehicles.