Hyundai Elantra -This High Performance Luxury Sedan

The 2009 Hyundai Elantra comes with the exterior styling and body design of European model. Elantra has been quite popular throughout the world, but in the Indian market it has special significance because it happens to be India's first high performance luxury sedan car marketed at low price range.

Hyundai Elantra -This High Performance Luxury Sedan
Hyundai Elantra -This High Performance Luxury SedanThe 2009 Elantra is offered in two different engines - the 2.0 liter diesel Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI) engine and the 1.8 liter Dumi overhead Camshaft petrol engine. The four cylinders CRDI generates 112.2 bhp of power at 4000 rotations per minute and the other variant produces 127 bhp at 6000 rotations per minute. The new Elantra is equipped with the advanced features like Electronic Brake Force Distribution System, Traction Control System and the Brake Assist Control.
Hyundai Elantra -This High Performance Luxury Sedan
Hyundai Elantra -This High Performance Luxury Sedan

The striking features in the vehicle include temperature sensors that have intelligence to sense the temperature in the car and the independent suspension. Other features apart from these two are Ultra smooth all wheel independent suspension, Ultra sensitive automatic temperature sensing, rear and front gas filled shock absorbers, generous room space and the advanced tubeless tires.

The vehicle is being offered in two different models - Ebony Black (EB) and the Noble White (NW). Hyundai aims at providing greater security and safety features in the Elantra model.

As of now, the most noticeable ones amongst these will be Electronic Brake Force Distribution System (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS), Passenger presence Detector, Anti Lock Braking System (ABS), Energy Absorbing Collapsible Steering Column, Brake Assistance System and the Pre-tension Seat Belts.

Looking at its awards and achievements, the 2008 Hyundai Elantra was awarded the "Best Value for Money Car of the Year" title, by the CNBC TV18.

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Opel Ampera and the Voltec Platform

A key aspect to General Motor's survival is what is now being called its Voltec platform - cars which are built on the same platform underpinning the Chevrolet Volt, an electric car scheduled to be introduced before the end of 2010. Besides the Chevrolet Volt, GM has been showcasing the Cadillac Converj concept, a luxury coupe version of the Volt as well as the Opel Ampera, a European counterpart to the Volt. Together, these three cars will play a prime role in distinguishing the direction General Motors will be going for the next decade or longer.

Opel Ampera and the Voltec Platform
Opel Ampera and the Voltec PlatformOpel Ampera and the Voltec Platform

Each of the three models will be "powered" by an electric lithium-ion battery, a rechargeable powerplant with an all-electric range of forty miles. Beyond that, a small gas engine will kick in and, in the case of the Chevrolet Volt, that engine will be the same 1.4L I4 motor as the one that will move the upcoming Chevrolet Cruze, a gasoline model. GM hasn't said which engines will be in the Ampera or the Converj, but the 1.4L may provide just enough power to move those two models as well.

Opel Ampera and the Voltec Platform
Opel Ampera and the Voltec Platform Once the all electric phase has ended, the engine should extend the car's range by at least another 250 miles, depending on the size of the gas tank installed. A regenerative braking system will partially recharge the battery, but a complete recharge of Voltec platform vehicles will take several hours. With a 110 volt outlet, a recharge should take six to eight hours to accomplish; but with a 220 volt outlet full recharging should be realized in four hours or less.

220 voltage outlets are used across Europe, while 110 volts is used in North America. Likely, dedicated power stations - whether in the home or on the road - will feature the higher voltage.

As far as body style goes, the Ampera will be a five door hatchback, a model that is highly desirable in Europe, but one that hasn't has much success in North America. The Chevrolet Volt will be a four door sedan while the Cadillac Converj is a sleek, two door coupe. GM is looking at developing other body styles for its many divisions including a crossover, sport/utility vehicle and perhaps a roadster. The latter model could replace the Cadillac XLR which is being retired this year.

Getting a glimpse of the Opel Ampera will have to wait until March when the Geneva Auto Show gets going. It is at that very event Opel is expected to roll out its own Voltec platform car, a model that General Motors hopes will be as well received as the Chevrolet Volt.

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Most Beautiful Cars Ever Produced 2010

Although beauty is very subjective not only in cars but basically in all aspects, there are many people in the world that consider the following 10 cars to be some of the most beautiful cars in the world that saw the light of day because there are other cars that didn't end up on the product line. This article will try to offer a brief review of 10 cars which people review them as being very beautiful. The order in which the cars will be presented is random as we did not consider that a top is necessary, all of them being equally beautiful.

Most Beautiful Cars Ever Produced 2010The first one is the Jaguar E-Type, also known as the XK-E, was launched back in 1961 and instantly become a huge success on the market. The car was so famous thanks to the fact that it combined performance and top-notch engineering with an incredibly beautiful design. Malcolm Slayer is the person that created this unique design of the E-Type. Many people consider this to be the most beautiful production sports car of all times.

Most Beautiful Cars Ever Produced 2010The second car of our article is the 1930 Mercedes-Benz Count Trossi SSK which for is time had a very revolutionary yet beautiful design although it did not enjoy that much popularity in its time. The elegant design of the car was a result of a combined effort of Count Carlo Felice Trossi - who purchased the chassis of the SSK in 1930, and an unknown English body worker by the name of Wiilie White who managed to make Trossi's dream come true. The name this exceptional car received is the "Black Prince". The SSK is part of the Ralph Lauren car collection.

Most Beautiful Cars Ever Produced 2010
Most Beautiful Cars Ever Produced 2010

The Bugatti Veyron 16.4 is one of the fastest and most expensive cars in the world. It is also one of the most powerful and beautiful cars that had the chance of being produced, although in a somewhat limited edition. The Veyron lives up to the long-lasting Bugatti tradition, a tradition that never failed in manufacturing stylish and breathtaking beautiful cars. The aerodynamically structured body of the 16.4 expresses an unparallel union of sports and luxury elements. Such an engineering and design jewel is a phenomenon whose assets will not be available in any everyday car, but with its existence, Veyron makes the world a much better place for any automotive fan and not only.

Another classic car, the 1938 Talbot-Lago T150C SS Teardrop Coupe which was first described as a "goute d'eau" which in translation means, a drop of water. Later on, it was traduced as a "teardrop". The French expression "goute d'eau" was an entirely new term, an acknowledgment that the car's speed had had crossed an invisible line where the aerodynamic drag and the stability started to influence performance as much as weight and power of the automobile. Jaguar's William Lyons once said that the car is "positively indecent".

Our last reviewed car is the top-notch Pagani Zonda which is considered to be a beauty and a beast at the same time. Horacio Pagani created the design of the provocative and futuristic Zonda, and it is a direct consequence of intensive search for ergonomic and aerodynamic aesthetics which were put to good use in creating a sensational car like the Zonda. The car is wild and raw but when looked at it from above, it looks like the figure of a beautiful supermodel.

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Global Auto Shows

For any automobile enthusiast the year cannot possibly come to an end without the highlight of some of the most popular auto shows that put on display with some the latest cars from manufacturers. Each manufacturer aims to outdo the competition by coming up with the most outstanding design forms with mix of comfort and integrated technology, which includes but is not limited to hybrid engines to counter the effects of fuel guzzling machines.

Global Auto ShowsWith the effects on the environment being of great priority to consumers nowadays, buyers are looking to go green. One location that is considered the home of the auto production and assembly in North America is Detroit, USA. The annual North American International Auto Show in Detroit is among the largest international auto shows that is organized globally and has come to gain immense popularity among auto enthusiasts.

Global Auto ShowsIn the past such shows were seen as an exaggerated staging that failed to meet the key goals of the consumer. Most of the stands that were erected by the major manufacturers at Cobo Hall were, over the top budget wise and were also enormous taking them months to complete setting them up. However, now manufacturers such as Kia, Volkswagen, Land Rover and others have included angular graphical lines and architecturally led concepts into their stand construction.

Global Auto Shows
Global Auto ShowsThey are increasingly developing cars that are inline with the consumers needs across a wide spectrum of choices. Manufacturers have also spent huge sums of money on researching technology to be utilized in reducing the fuel consumption rate of their designs. For instance, Toyota currently reigns with the Prius model while Honda has unleashed the Honda Insight.

Another popular auto show is the Mondial de l'Automobile also known as the Paris Auto Show. It is important to note that this cars show is the oldest motor show that exists in the world, with it roots dating to back to the nineteenth century, in eighteen ninety eight. This is a luxury affair as the city of Paris always is when it comes to design and fashion. The automobiles that were on show during latest Mondial de l'Automobile in the French Capital included such models as the 2008 Citroen GT Concept, the 2008 Peugeot RC Concept, the 2009 Aston Martin One - 77, 2009 Ferrari California, the 2008 Lamborghini Estoque Concept, the 2009 Renault Megane Trophy, 2009 BMW 7 - Series, among a myriad of other luxury models all competing for the top spot.

It is also of importance to note another notable auto show, the Frankfurt Auto Show, which is the single largest auto show occasion in the world. It is known also as the Frankfurt Motor Show or simply as the International Motor Show. It is an annual affair in German city of Frankfurt. Additionally, there is also the International Geneva Motor Show, which is held in Switzerland a country widely known for its exclusively wealthy especially in the banking sector. In the Geneva Motor Show held in Geneva there were new models on display like the Bentley Brooklands Coupe.

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New Ford Cars - New Car Technology 2010

Ford as we know today was founded in 1903 by Henry Ford. Back then, it was his dream to build a car for the masses. Today, his legacy stands as the man that made cars a crucial part of our mobile lifestyle.

New Ford Cars - New Car Technology 2010In his early years, Ford introduced the 'moving assembly line'. This was the first time that a manufacturing company employed moving assembly lines to achieve a more cost-effective method of production.

New Ford Cars - New Car Technology 2010Later on, Ford expanded into the luxury-car market when he bought Lincoln Motor Company in 1925. Since then, Ford grew to become one of the largest car manufacturers across the world. The Ford Focus, Ford Fusion, Ford Mustang and Ford Fiesta are some of the popular models of Ford cars in the international market.

New Ford Cars - New Car Technology 2010
New Ford Cars - New Car Technology 2010Ford Motors also has a number of car models rolled up in the market that include a segment of luxury cars as well. Recently, they have developed a new technology known as Noise Vision technology that ensures the quietest interior cabins.

Noise vision Technology:

Noise vision Technology is a new technology which helps manufacturers identify unwanted sounds and eliminate them.

This new technology will make sure that all new cars from Ford Motors will have the quietest interior cabins.

The 'Noise Vision' is basically a small sphere placed inside the cabin of the car and is equipped with more than thirty highly sensitive microphones and twelve special cameras.

The software used in the Noise Vision reads data and creates a computerized image that shows interior noise "hot spots," including wind noise, a squeak, a rattle or unwanted feedback from engine.

New Luxury Ford Cars for the 2010 model year will be developed with this technology.

2010 Taurus, the Fusion, the Flex and the F-150 are some of the names of the cars from Ford that ensure a quiet interior.

Ford Motors work hard to provide comfortable cars to the masses, blended with latest technology. This technology in Ford cars will give tough competition to other manufacturing companies, as Ford is going to use this technology up to a great extent in the luxury car segment.

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Mercedes Vs Spray Paint at Burning Man

Mercedes Vs Spray Paint at Burning Man
mercedes art car, originally uploaded by lomokev.
This particular Mercedes Art Car was spotted at burning man some time ago. I am not sure the philosophy behind this piece but it looks like some dude went crazy on his brand new Merecedes with a can of paint. I wonder if the warranty covers crazy?

Pontiac Grand Am Insurance

This 4-wheel driven, 3.4-liter V6 engine on independent suspension is considered a dream come true by avid motorists; taking advantage of this particular sentiment, insurance companies vary their rates insanely and often put in deals that are extras and sometimes, even unwanted. The best way, thus, to steer clear of the confusion is by knowing the significance of the components individually of a Pontiac Grand Am insurance package.

Pontiac Grand Am InsuranceAn insurance or coverage depends on many-a-factors; however, it's the safety of the car that stands as the prime point. Being a vehicle falling into the exotic group of automobiles, there are certain mandatory as well as optional coverage charges to fulfill. The Bodily Injury Liability and the Property Liability coverage is therefore, a must; along with that, collision insurance saves many an unwanted hassle in case there occurs an accident.

Pontiac Grand Am InsuranceHowever, every automobile comes with a warranty from the manufacturer and the Pontiac AM is not an exception; the warranty can be treated as a limited/short-term Pontiac Grand Am insurance against normal mechanical faults resulting with normal usage within 10,000 miles or so. This can be extended further with after market auto warranties and helps to save hefty amounts that would have otherwise gone for repairs.

Pontiac Grand Am Insurance
Pontiac Grand Am Insurance

Such warranties shall cover the vehicle for 7 years (or 100,000 miles); the primary parts that are covered are the engine, the drive train, the transmissions and all the electrical and micro-electronic systems. Besides, there are many insurance companies that provide complimentary premium member benefits; these come handy when roadside assistance is sought the most. Another alternative to this is the Comprehensive Coverage; though the complimentary part may stay absent, but this type of coverage takes into account even mishaps caused by the forces of nature or when the car is hit by another one on standstill.

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Used Rolls Royce - Luxurious Executive Cars

If you like cars and haven't heard of Rolls-Royce, then you may as well have been living under a bush for the majority of the last century! Not only are Rolls-Royce a properly old and well established company, but they are well-known for producing some of the most luxurious and expensive executive cars that you can find around the world. Every little thing about the cars is meticulous and intentional, a feat of engineering that has bought them a great deal of respect and which has kept them going through all the trials and tribulations the last 100 years or so has thrown at them.

Used Rolls Royce - Luxurious Executive CarsRolls-Royce cars are so popular that there is even a mass market out there for used Rolls-Royces, with lots of dealerships scattered all around the country. Considering their huge starting price it is also worth mentioning that they barely seem to depreciate, instead staying as a largely unachievable status symbol for as long as they are looked after carefully and are professionally maintained.

Used Rolls Royce - Luxurious Executive CarsWith such a long and distinguished heritage, it only seems right that this most respected and established British brand has an equally respected and prestigious abode. Enter Goodwood, the Rolls-Royce headquarters situated appropriately in the heart of the British countryside. Considering the regal fronting and amazing quality of this esteemed mansion, it is often hard to understand the modern and technical nature of the engineering work and design that goes on within.

Used Rolls Royce - Luxurious Executive Cars
Used Rolls Royce - Luxurious Executive Cars

If the historic estate is a regal and antiquated setting, then don't let that make you assume that the building itself will be fuddy-duddy and old-fashioned. After all, Rolls-Royce entered the 21st century a way ahead of the crowd, and they built a headquarters to represent this. This explains the fact that the Goodwood location, a venue for all sorts of racing events and festivals, has a mile long glass section that allows eager visitors to get a glimpse of the famous Rolls assembly lines, which is of course where the magic happens - and where those beautiful car designs are magically made into a luxurious reality!

The Goodwood location really is the perfect representation of the Rolls-Royce brand. If you could sum the style and the attitude to car creation up in an architectural representation, then it is fair to say that this is exactly what a Used Rolls-Royce will look like in most people's heads. It is mainly to do with the fact that if you look at an actual Rolls car, you don't just see for wheels and a chassis. Instead, you see a beautiful creation, with a strong bold design and a certain style that suggests a true to god pedigree. Then you drive it, and you realise the incredibly workmanship and modern design is in the engine too, as it drive like nothing else on earth. This is why the Goodwood location is so apt - because you get that same vintage feel with lots of heritage, but effortlessly combined with a set of modern looking, liking and materials.

If you like cars and haven't heard of Rolls-Royce, then you may as well have been living under a bush for the majority of the last century! Not only are Rolls-Royce a properly old and well established company, but they are well-known for producing some of the most luxurious and expensive executive cars that you can find around the world. Every little thing about the cars is meticulous and intentional, a feat of engineering that has bought them a great deal of respect and which has kept them going through all the trials and tribulations the last 100 years or so has thrown at them.

Rolls-Royce cars are so popular that there is even a mass market out there for used Rolls-Royces, with lots of dealerships scattered all around the country. Considering their huge starting price it is also worth mentioning that they barely seem to depreciate, instead staying as a largely unachievable status symbol for as long as they are looked after carefully and are professionally maintained.

With such a long and distinguished heritage, it only seems right that this most respected and established British brand has an equally respected and prestigious abode. Enter Goodwood, the Rolls-Royce headquarters situated appropriately in the heart of the British countryside. Considering the regal fronting and amazing quality of this esteemed mansion, it is often hard to understand the modern and technical nature of the engineering work and design that goes on within.

If the historic estate is a regal and antiquated setting, then don't let that make you assume that the building itself will be fuddy-duddy and old-fashioned. After all, Rolls-Royce entered the 21st century a way ahead of the crowd, and they built a headquarters to represent this. This explains the fact that the Goodwood location, a venue for all sorts of racing events and festivals, has a mile long glass section that allows eager visitors to get a glimpse of the famous Rolls assembly lines, which is of course where the magic happens - and where those beautiful car designs are magically made into a luxurious reality!

The Goodwood location really is the perfect representation of the Rolls-Royce brand. If you could sum the style and the attitude to car creation up in an architectural representation, then it is fair to say that this is exactly what a Used Rolls-Royce will look like in most people's heads. It is mainly to do with the fact that if you look at an actual Rolls car, you don't just see for wheels and a chassis. Instead, you see a beautiful creation, with a strong bold design and a certain style that suggests a true to god pedigree. Then you drive it, and you realise the incredibly workmanship and modern design is in the engine too, as it drive like nothing else on earth. This is why the Goodwood location is so apt - because you get that same vintage feel with lots of heritage, but effortlessly combined with a set of modern looking, liking and materials.

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Hyundai Genesis - Luxury Best Bargain?

When Hyundai announced a few years back that they would be designing several new luxury models with an eye toward shipping these cars to the ultra competitive North American and European markets, most enthusiasts immediately criticized the Korean automaker for that decision. The criticism had little to do with Hyundai's ability to build these types of vehicles - they've been doing so for years, but keeping them in Korea -- rather, the automaker planned to sell these cars under the Hyundai umbrella. That's just like selling a Chevy at a Cadillac dealership.

Hyundai Genesis - Luxury Best Bargain?Despite the criticism, Hyundai has gone ahead and introduced its flagship Genesis sedan to the US and will immediately follow that car up with the Genesis coupe. Like it or not, Hyundai is pushing upmarket with a car that is surprisingly luxurious and undercutting its competition by thousands of dollars.

Hyundai Genesis - Luxury Best Bargain?Hyundai has several popular cars in its crosshairs as it rolls out the Genesis. The Cadillac CTS, Lexus ES, and Chrysler 300 are just a few of the cars mentioned by Hyundai as competitors to the Genesis. Other models from Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Infiniti, and Acura are also fair game, and it is the owners of these models who Hyundai would like to persuade to consider the Genesis. Even if that fails, Hyundai is confident that a number of Toyota, Nissan, Volkswagen, Ford, Dodge, and Chevrolet owners wouldn't mind paying a few thousand dollars more to get Cadillac quality at a Pontiac price.

Hyundai Genesis - Luxury Best Bargain?
Hyundai Genesis - Luxury Best Bargain?The 2009 Hyundai Genesis Sedan

Two engine choices are available with Genesis buyers: a 3.8L V6 or a powerful 4.6L V8 producing 375 horsepower. The latter engine, though not exactly thrifty on gas, is offered to appeal to luxury car buyers who expect a lot of power and are willing to pay for it.

The Genesis' rear wheel drive platform also matches what luxury car buyers want. These types of cars are routinely test on Germany's famed Nürburgring racetrack (also known as "the ring") where they are put through the paces and graded on their performance. I haven't received word yet whether the Genesis was tested there, but if it wasn't you can expect Hyundai to join Porsche, Cadillac, BMW, Saleen, Infiniti, Mercedes, and other manufactures in the very near future.

The Genesis Is All About Luxury

Beyond the engine choices (each one is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission), the Genesis is all about luxury. Some of its top features include: four wheel antilock brakes with brake assist; electronic stability control; traction control; front and side mounted airbags; adaptive lighting; power everything; driver information system; backup camera; leather everywhere; woodgrain trim; etc.

The style of the Genesis looks similar to a previous generation Mercedes (or could it be Infiniti?), but with a base MSRP of $32,250, is priced more than ten thousand dollars less than comparable models.

Auto critics are just now getting their hands on the Genesis and are giving the car glowing reviews. Clearly, Hyundai has outperformed itself with the Genesis but one potentially fatal flaw is possible: will buyers flock to a value oriented car like the Hyundai Genesis or will they pay extra for the prestige of owning a BMW, Lexus, or Mercedes? Time will tell; it'll be interesting to watch how consumers react.

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2010 GMC Sierra Announced

The 2010 GMC Sierra has been announced and it is expected to come with the latest V8 turbo diesel engine, but the vehicle's launch has been delayed due to the General Motor's weak financial position. The new Sierra from the GMC falls under the category of large size pickup trucks. The 2010 Sierra model, which is yet to be released, is modified to a good extent, and few major changes are expected over the previous Sierra model.

2010 GMC Sierra AnnouncedThe model is offered in three different styles - the crew cab, extended cab and the regular cab style. The pickup truck shares most of the design features from the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 model.

2010 GMC Sierra AnnouncedThe extended cab model comes with their usual rear hinged back doors that do not open the doors independently. The regular cabs have the capacity to accommodate three passengers, while the crew and the extended cabs come with six seating capacity. The vehicle is offered with two different interior styles, the "luxury inspired" and the "pure pickup" style.

2010 GMC Sierra Announced
2010 GMC Sierra Announced The engines that will be made available to the 2010 Sierra include 4.3 liter V6 that produces 195 horse power, 4.8 liter V8 that produces 295 horse power, 5.3 liter V8 that produces 315 horse power and the 6.2 liter V8 engine that produces 403 horse power.

The GMC Sierra 1500 Hybrid model comes with the 6.0 liter V8 engine that produces 332 horse power of throughout in tandem with an electric motor. The new Sierra will be able to make use of one or both power resources based on the needs. It will be offered in variable automatic transmissions, and its top towing capacity will be close to 6100 pounds.

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The 1968 Dodge Charger

Sometimes there are those cars that stir such passion and favorable emotions that they immediately become an instant classic. Such was the case with the 1968 Dodge Charger, with the car exploding onto the scene when its performance and popularity were cemented in movie Bullit. This propelled the 1968 Charger to immediate success; however it is important to note that this was the second model of the infamous car developed by Dodge.

The 1968 Dodge ChargerWhat happened was the Charger was originally created in 1966 with it originally being designed as an alternative for the muscle car craze that was gripping the nation. The first version featured a V - 8, with an electric shaver grill borrowed from the 1942 De Soto and the inside dashboard panel involved the use of actual bulbs to illuminate the gages. However, the car had some initial problems such it would lift when taking corners in excess of 150 miles per hour. This forced Dodge to impose dealer modifications to the 1966 and 1967 models. After seeing disappointing sales in the 1967 model because of this problem and complaints about some of the features forced the company to revaluate how the new Charger would be designed.

The 1968 Dodge ChargerThe 1968 Dodge Charger involved a complete top to bottom redesign with the body of the car having what is known as the double diamond styling or Coke bottle image. Next there was more sheet metal added to the under carriage, this is important because it help provide stability when the Charger would take corners at high speeds.

The 1968 Dodge Charger
The 1968 Dodge ChargerAll of the different lights such as headlights and the tail lights were hidden. The rear window was given the same kind of sleek look that was so popular on the 1966 - 1967 Pontiac GTO. The biggest distinction that would help the 1968 Charger become one of the iconic muscle cars was the R/ T package. This was a special designation given to those cars that had one of the two highest performing engines that Dodge produced 440 Magnum and the 426 Hemi.

Together these two V - 8 engines would set the standard for Dodge muscle cars in the future. There were massive improvements to the suspension and brakes, with added supports so that the car can be able to handle various jumps easier. The interior of the car was very roomy with the 1968 Charger being able to seat six people. The different extras included power windows, hidden ash trays, front head restraints, should harness seat belt for the front as well as rear outside passengers, a padded steering wheel and a rear window defroster. Together all of these different elements meant that the Charger would be known for reliability and speed. A good example of this occurred when the movie Bullit was being filmed on the streets of San Francisco with the Charger have no problems and more equipped to handle jumps along with sharp turns in comparison to the 1968 Ford Mustang.

Clearly the 1968 Dodge Charger is an icon for that speed, power and luxury that muscle cars are known for. What makes the 1968 model so special is because it was the first time that Dodge was able to make massive improvements to their original design. This was important because these changes set the standard for muscle car design for all the major American automobile manufacturers.

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The Elegant and Powerful Jaguar Car

The Elegant and Powerful Jaguar CarA car which is a symbol of classic elegance and quality performance is the Jaguar. The name Jaguar made its debut in the United Kingdom and since then has been the icon for Britain's upper class society. Although recently, Jaguar has been acquired by the joint efforts of several automotive manufacturers, it still has the undeniable character of luxurious English tradition.

The Elegant and Powerful Jaguar CarThe Jaguar tradition began when William Walmsley and Bill Lyons started a company called Swallow Sidecar in 1922. It was based in England and was involved in the production of sidecars for motorcycles made of aluminum. In 1933, the name of the company changed to SS Cars Ltd when they decided to enter into the production of cars. The SS Jaguar 100 was officially the first Jaguar car.

The Elegant and Powerful Jaguar Car

SS Cars again changed its name to Jaguar after the Second World War to avoid any connection with the Nazi army which had the same letter initials. The Jaguar Mark V came out in 1948, which was the first post war production car to be produced by Jaguar. The Mark V was a sedan and was followed by the XK120 which gained its popularity due to its high speed performance. It was this car that catapulted the fame of Jaguar into the forefront of the automotive industry.

The Jaguar cars were introduced to the United States in the 1950s. The car model Mark VII Saloon was especially designed for the American consumer and proved to be an important product on the market. That same car won the Monte Carlo Rally in 1956. The Mark VIII and Mark IX soon followed their predecessor.

The E-type Coupe or XK-E was one of the most popular models of Jaguar launched in the 60s. It was a complete package of elegance, style, luxury and performance. The popular band groups then like the Rolling Stones and The Beatles, who used Jaguar cars, also contributed a great deal to the car's continued fame.

The seventies paved way for the production of a new breed of fast coupes namely the XJ6C, XJ12C and the XJ-S. The XJ12C had a V12 engine which made it the fastest car during that time.

Continuing Jaguars tradition of class and performance, the eighties witnessed the super car XJ220 and the XJ-S HE. Due to tight competition with the rise of German automotive companies, Jaguar felt the need to acquire partners to maintain its hold on the market, but this resulted instead to a full buy out by Ford during the nineties. Bold efforts by Ford during the first years resulted in the production of other Jaguar models. Unfortunately, sales of Jaguars lowered when Ford decided to manufacture low-priced Jaguars, a move which took out the luxury status Jaguar had had,and also lost its supporters and clients. Jaguar was overshadowed by various types of new designs of new car brands and was considered a liability to Ford. A decision was made to sell Jaguar to a new Indian management.

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Lamborghini - The Dream Car

It might be odd to think of farm equipment when one hears the word Lamborghini, but this is exactly what Lamborghini started out as - A farm equipment company called Lamborghini Trattori. The founder of the company was Ferruccio Lamborghini who in the 1960's bought a Ferrari with the profits from his successful farm equipment company. Life changed for Lamborghini when he met Enzo Ferrari, the founder of Ferrari.Ferruccio Lamborghini was a man that demanded high quality and he felt that his Ferrari was not meeting his expectations and he thought he could do better. He shifted his focus away from farm equipment and onto producing high performance automobiles.

Lamborghini - The Dream CarThe first real contender that they produced in the exotic car market was the Miura. The Miura was a mid engine, V-12 sports car that commanded a heft price tag of $20,000 which is equal to over $100,000 in todays economy. During its 6 year production run, 764 Lamborghini Miura's were built. Following on the success of the Miura was the highly successful Lamborghini Countach. This was the dream car for many from the mid 70's to 1990 when production concluded. This car was beautiful and had aggressive styling that had never been seen before.

Lamborghini - The Dream CarNo one thought the Countach could be topped, but Lamborghini did it one more time and created the highly successful Lamborghini Diablo. From 1990-2001 almost 3000 Diablo's were made and during their first year of production, a Diablo could be bought for $240,000 U.S. This was certainly not a luxury car and did not have many features for a car of it's price. It did however have incredible performance. The V12 engine allowed it to go from -60mph in just over 4 seconds!

Lamborghini - The Dream Car
Lamborghini - The Dream Car

Following the success of the Diablo would be hard, but the Lamborghini Murcielago went even further at showing the world that Lamborghini was a serious contender in the exotic sports car world. It continued the tradition of aggressive styling and super high performance and added four-wheel-drive when it was released in 2001. To this day the Murcielago is produced with over 3000 of them already sold to their wealthy customers.

In 2003 Lamborghini introduced the Lamborghini Gallardo, which is a "cheap" Lamborghini, as compared with it's more expensive sibling, the Murcielago. While the Murcielago costs about $315,000 U.S., the Gallardo is available at just over $200,000. Don't think that you have to give up performance when buying a Gallardo and not a Murcielago though. The Lamborghini Gallardo is quite capable with a 0-60mph time of around 4 seconds, depending on which particular variation. Unfortunately the Gallardo doesn't come with Lamborghini's signature scissor doors that open upward, but this hasn't hurt sales since the Gallardo is the high volume car that Lamborghini has ever made.

Over the years Lamborghini has suffered some financial problems and has been bought and sold a number of times and is currently owned by Audi, which is owned by Volkswagen. Lamborghini makes some of the most beautiful and sought after exotic cars available today and should be on everyone's list of favorite exotic car makers.

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The 2010 Ford Escape

The 2010 Ford Escape is a versatile vehicle that does well in cities, as well as off-road situations. Ford certainly knows what consumers want in a mid-size SUV and the Escape exemplifies that fact. With three different trim packages, there is great diversity for consumers to select. All models are fairly priced and come with either front or all wheel drive. The updated styling makes it a highly desirable vehicle for those who prefer a modern refined look for a vehicle of it's size. Compared with competitors like the Dodge magnum, or Chevy Trailblazer it is more than competitive in almost every category.

The 2010 Ford Escape
The 2010 Ford Escape is a versatile vehicle that does well in cities, as well as off-road situations. Ford certainly knows what consumers want in a mid-size SUV and the Escape exemplifies that fact. With three different trim packages, there is great diversity for consumers to select. All models are fairly priced and come with either front or all wheel drive. The updated styling makes it a highly desirable vehicle for those who prefer a modern refined look for a vehicle of it's size. Compared with competitors like the Dodge magnum, or Chevy Trailblazer it is more than competitive in almost every category.

The 2010 Ford Escape
The 2010 Ford Escape
Trim packages available for the 2010 Ford Escape include the basic XLS, XLT, and Limited editions. As stated before, each is offered in either front wheel drive or all wheel drive. Basic models come with the new drivers side mirror that supposedly improves the viewing ability in the "blind spot" area. XLS models have standard 16 inch wheels, full power accessories, remote keyless locks, and a modest audio system that has 4 speakers. Though the basic models don't offer a lot in the form of modern amenities, they have just enough to make long trips more than bearable. XLT trim packages come with fog lamps, electric powered seats, steering wheel accessory controls, satellite radio, optional leather seats. Other additional options for XLT models include a sunroof, 17 inch alloy wheels, and an expanded audio system.

The 2010 Ford Escape Consumers looking for the ultimate driving experience with a 2010 Ford Escape must consider the limited package. Standard interior options include full leather upholstery, exterior chrome accents, heated front seating, sync capabilities, and a six speaker audio system. Additional features at an extra cost include a rear mounted camera, further enhanced audio system, and an automatic park system. The overhaul completed a few years ago have made the interior quality much better than previous models. The touch and appearance of high end models is on par with many luxury cars.

Engines available include a 2.5 liter four cylinder engine capable of 171 horsepower, and a 3.0 liter V-6 that puts out 240 horsepower. Basic models come with the four cylinder engines as standard, while high-end models come with the V-6. For optimal performance with all-wheel drive models the V-6 engine is highly recommended. The smaller four cylinder engine comes with a five speed manual transmission or a 6 speed automatic, while all V-6's come with only a five speed automatic.

Fuel economy is rather impressive for the 2.5 liter, with city fuel economy at 20 mpg and highway coming in at 28 mpg. In comparison with it's competitors the 4 cylinder equipped escapes are very competitive. V-6 models with all wheel drive boast 17 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. Each model fairs quite well in the fuel consumption category.

Standard equipment such as stability control, traction control, front and side airbags, and antilock brakes make this a fairly safe mid-size SUV. For frontal and side impact crash tests the 2010 Ford Escape earned the highest rating. Most mid-size SUVs do fairly well in these tests, but for a perfect rating these cars certainly beat many of the competitors.

The Escape is one of the best selling SUVs in the country, and yet it still is offered at a more than reasonable price. Basic models are great for consumers on limited budgets who don't need the extra comforts and frills, while consumers who want the full experience will be more than happy with the limited edition packages. Great handling, reliability, and pricing make this an ideal SUV for all consumers to consider.

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