GMAC and Chrysler-Fiat Mashup

One of the more interesting details about today's announcement by Obama about Chrysler's chapter 11 filing was the deal with GMAC to be Chrysler-Fiat's primary lender. Said Obama:

The path we're taking also involves steps to shore up
financing, because we cannot have viable car companies
without strong car financing companies. It's now clear
that Chrysler Financial -- the institution that finances
Chrysler cars and dealers -- would on its own require an
unacceptably large stream of taxpayer money to remain
viable -- and that's something I refuse to provide. And
that is why, as part of this agreement, GMAC, an
independent bank holding company that finances General
Motors, has agreed to finance new Chrysler sales. We will
be providing additional capital to GMAC to help unlock our
frozen credit markets and free up lending so that consumers
can get auto loans and dealers can finance their
inventories;

I wonder if this was in a way punishment to Chrysler Finance for refusing the $750 million TARP infusion because the execs didn't want to abide by the compensation rules? By refusing to prop up Chrysler Finance, Obama is really sticking it to Cerberus. As part of the requirement for GMAC becoming a bank, Cerberus must sell off most of its stake.

Using GMAC helps GM because GM still owns a large minority stake GMAC. And because GMAC is a bank holding company, it is easier for the government to support through the TARP.

It also may be a hint of Obama's future intentions. If Chrysler-Fiat fails, the groundwork for GM absorbing Chrysler may be laid here.

Reminder: Get Out Of Demand Notes

Update: I have attracted some hostile comments. To clarify my position:

No one who has a low tolerance for risk should be in GMAC Demand Notes. If you are using them for long term savings, get out. If you understand that you are chasing returns, and that this is similar to "junk bonds", and you have a diversified portfolio, have at it.

---

A friend of mine has some of his money in GMAC Demand Notes. I recently reminded him that this is crazy--they are basically unsecured loans to GMAC.

That's why they pay 4%, compared with FDIC insured rates of 2.25% at GMAC Bank.

With GM looking at a possible bankrupcy, and GMAC shaky due to mortgage exposure, no one should be in GMAC Demand Notes. The 1.75% extra yield is not worth the risk. If you have money that you don't mind investing in "junk" debt, buy a diversified junk bond fund or ETF,which gives you some protection against a single company default.

The same goes for Ford's Interest Advantage.

Comparing The Cash For Clunkers Bills

There are two competing "cash for clunkers" bills in the House.  One is more left-leaning, HR520, and the other is more populist, HR1550.  Both bills aim to do the same thing: encourage people to scrap older cars to buy new ones.  But they are very different in how they do so. 

In fine high school government class style, I will now contrast the two bills.

Key Differences:

Definition of a "high polluting" or "high consumption" automobile.

HR520: Average (city+highway weighted average) fuel economy of <18mpg.

HR1550: A car built before 2001.

Definition of a "fuel efficient automobile"

HR520: 2003MY or later, <$45,000 price, Tier II Bin 1-5 EPA emissions, 

25% better fuel economy than current or future CAFE standards.

HR1550: 2009-2011MY, <$35,000 price, Tier II Bin 5 emissions.

Voucher Amount:

HR520: New car voucher: $4,500 for 7 year old or newer car, 

$3,000 for 8-10 year old car, $2,500 for 11+ year old car. 

Used car voucher: $3,000, $2,000, $1500.

HR1550: $4,000 for US assembled 27 hwy MPG+, North America 30 hwy MPG+, 

or US light truck 24 hwy MPG+; $5,000 for US assembled 30 hwy MPG+, 

or US assembled work truck (registered commercial); 

$3000 for a NA assembled light truck with 24 hwy MPG+

Both bills require the old vehicle to be destroyed.  Parts other than "engine block and drivetrain" can be recycled, but the titled body, engine block and transmission must be destroyed.

HR520 is obviously geared towards fuel economy.  It doesn't care what kind of car you buy, as long as it is 25% better than the current requirements--which will greatly limit what kind of vehicles would qualify.  It also won't help you unless you are driving something which is relatively thirsty.  A typical case might be a trade-in of an old SUV or pickup truck.  

For example, the current standard is 27.5MPG (combined) for cars and 23.1MPG for trucks, so to qualify for the HR520 voucher now you would have to buy a passenger car that gets at least 34.4MPG or a light truck that gets at least 28.9MPG (combined).  The list of vehicles that would currently qualify is short: small and mid-sized hybrids such as Prius and Fusion, Smart, VW TDI, Toyota Yaris, Mini, Ford Escape Hybrid.  HR520 may give more benefit as time goes on, because more fuel efficient cars will appear, ahead of the tougher CAFE standards.

I think HR520 would have an unintended side effect of boosting the residual values of used large engined vehicles.  Cars that would have been worth $700 (like this one) would be worth much more, because they could be bought and titled just to qualify for the voucher.

 

HR1550 is designed to be more of a short term shot in the arm to the auto industry.  It very broadly defines what a "polluting" and "clean" vehicle is, because it isn't really about being green. It is only in force for several years, and heavily favors U.S. assembled or NAFTA vehicles.  This favoritism could cause trouble at the WTO, although it does include transplants such as Honda who have plants in the U.S.  

I prefer HR1550, because it would be better for the Detroit 3 in the short term.

A Prophecy Sadly Comes True

Back in the earlier days of this blog, circa 2005 (when I would get more real comments than spam), I posted that I thought GM should kill Pontiac.  At the time, Bob Lutz admitted that if Pontiac and Buick didn't pull their weight, GM would consider phasing them out.

I wrote:

Pontiac has no real identity--it is the "driving excitement" brand, but the cars are just not that exciting. Until recently, they were just warmed over, plastic clad versions of GM's platforms. Barely disguised Chevys and Buicks. 

This was before the G8 appeared, but also before the G5.  

The press is now reporting that GM will be killing Pontiac.  From Detroit News:

In its restructuring plan rejected by President Obama's autos task force last month, GM proposed shrinking Pontiac into a niche brand with one or two offerings. But the task force wants GM to cut deeper and faster, necessitating the decision to eliminate Pontiac, which leaves the automaker with four core brands: Chevrolet, Cadillac, Buick and GMC.

From a product portfolio, this makes sense.  Even with the life-support of Bob Lutz' heroic efforts to get some real excitement product for Pontiac (Solstice, G8, aborted Sport Truck), it was not enough to revive the brand, which was still being poisoned by its old-school badge engineered products.  Whatever street cred was gained by the Solstice and G8 was drained, zombie style, by the G5 (Cobalt), G3 (Aveo!), and Torrent (Equinox).

The big question now is, what happens to the dealers?  Most Pontiac dealers are multi-brand, using Pontiac as a complement to Buick and/or GMC.  Many smaller dealers will not survive without Pontiac.  How will the franchises be closed--through bankrupcy court?  Dealer lawsuits could swamp GM's emergence from bankrupcy court for years.  Or will Obama have to buy them out?  

SPAM ALERT to all my Feedburner Subscribers

I to all who subscribe to Art Car Central via feedburner, yoo got an email last night with my name on it which did not come from me. It was a request with an arabic return email address saying it was from feedburner via Art Car Central.

the message was

Hello there,
You recently requested an email subscription to Art Car Central. We can't
wait to send the updates you want via email, so please click the following
link to activate your subscription immediately:

DO NOT REPLY TO IT, i DID NOT SEND!!!!!!!

Sorry for the weirdness and I do I appreciate you all being loyal subscribers to Art Car Central. I love making you all laugh.

Another Sign Of The Carpocalypse

(I hope Jalopnik doesn't go 1-800-Call-Sam on me for using "carpocalypse".)

One of the horseman of the carpocalypse rode through my workplace.  We used to have a cafeteria in our building which was run by a major catering company.  Between the layoffs and people cutting back on spending, they couldn't make money at it.  

Gone are all the made-to-order stations, and the hot entree line.  The cafeteria was changed into a convenience store--prepackaged sandwiches and salads, candy, chips, and bottled drinks.  Prices also went up.

The horseman left with heads hanging on his saddle.  Two managers, a chef, several cooks, and others lots their jobs.  I heard him rapping on the way out as he rode, "I'm rollin' down a hill, snowballin' gettin' bigger..."

Cutting Back

I am, thank God, employed.  

However, I don't have high confidence that I will be employed at the end of the calendar year. Considering the way the economy is going, I guess I have about a 50% chance, assuming that there is no rebound in car sales.  

So, my family has been cutting back to save some more cash for our rainy day fund.

Here are a few examples of ways that I have been saving money:

• We don't have cable or satellite TV anymore, we are using one of those digital TV converter boxes on our 10 year old analog TV to watch free over-the-air TV.  With rabbit ears.  It works, and besides, TV is over-rated.  Everyone could benefit from more reading time.
• I don't subscribe to the local paper, instead I read it for free online (sorry Detroit News and Free Press).  I get a few other magazines such as Consumer Reports for free as hand-me-downs from other family members.  There's some thrifty advice you'll never read in CR: hobo your Consumer Reports!
  
• My family has nearly stopped eating out.  Except for the occasional lunch with my co-workers, or a night where we don't have the will to cook anything.
• I have gotten used to driving no more than a couple of miles over the speed limit.  My mid-sized sedan with its <2.5l>
• I am stretching my oil changes out to 6,000 miles (manufacturer suggests 3,000 miles on my wife's car and 5,000 on mine).
• I have cut back on beer and wine consumption.  I used to take a bottle of beer or a glass of wine every day, now I find myself stretching it out by drinking on weekends.  I do have a weakness for scotch, though...
• I have cut back on how much meat I eat.  I think I eat red meat less than once a week now, and chicken or fish no more than a couple of times a week.  I admit this is also to improve my overall health, but you can save quite a bit of money this way.
• I have cut back on buying gadgets, except for ones that have an actual useful purpose.  For example, my old Dell laptop (Windows XP, P4) works fine, no need for one of the new ones--I just replace broken parts, which are cheap and plentiful, when something breaks.  I did buy a new digital camera, but I sold the old one on eBay so it was not a big investment.
• My wife and I don't give each other expensive gifts for birthdays and holidays, just small items to express the thought.  

If you think about your spending habits more carefully, you might be amazed at how many places you are spending that you could trim back, with a little bit of adjustment.

Of course, I'm one of thousands doing the same thing.  As a result, the economic death spiral accelerates.  Restaurants are closing, food producers are hurting, newspapers are going out of business, magazines are getting skinnier (even Consumer Reports).  

Rudy: Cuban Gynecologist and American Used Car Salesman

Why is this so funny? I used to sell cars once upon a time and I heard a lot of stories about ways to sell cars. But this is by far the worst gimmick I have ever heard and hopefully Rudy the Cuban Gynecologist and American Used Car Salesman doesn't plan on doing both at the same time. Or maybe he plans on throwing in his services as an added feature to the 100k mile warranty.Wait I think I just spotted the spoof. This video was made by Rhett&Link and they also have a making of the making of this funny commercial they made.

Amazing 15 World's Largest Objects

World's Largest Book

The award for largest published book goes to an author and scientist at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Michael Hawley. The 133-pound book is five by seven feet, 112 pages, needs a gallon of ink for printing, and costs $2,000 to produce. Its title? “Bhutan: A Visual Odyssey Across the Kingdom.”

World’s Largest Motorcycle

Officially recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records, Gregory Dunham, from California's Stockton, built the world's largest motorcycle. Greg spent three years in his workshop crafting this 11 feet tall, 20 feet long monster bike which is powered by a 8.2 litre (V8 engine and has tyres that are 1.88 m tall. The 6,500-pound motorcycle with a pricetag of $300,000 is totally rideable.

World's Largest Bottle of Wine

It’s a 490 liter Grande Cuvee TBA NV No.7 2005 of Austrian wine maker Kracher, presented in Rehetobel Switzerland. The bottle itself has been certified by Guinness World Records as the world’s largest bottle of wine, holding the equivalent to 640 regular bottles of wine.

World’s Largest Revolver

You’re looking at what probably is the largest revolver in the world: a replica of Remington model 1859, by Mr. Ryszard Tobys. It’s 1.26 meter (4.13 ft.) long.

World's Largest Pencil

This mother-of-all writing utensils weighs in at 21,500 lbs and stretches to 76 feet long and it’s a version of the classic No. 2. The huge pencil was built in New York by Ashrita Furman and many talented craftsmen.

World’s Largest Pinata

Breaking the Guinness Record for the world's largest pinata, according to an onsite Guinness adjudicator, this giant mock donkey measured 28.5 meters long; 7.2 meters wide and 18 meters tall and was filled with 8,000 pounds (3,628 kilograms) of candy. A wrecking ball was used to help smash the pinata during a public event, where Carnival Cruise Lines was producing a television commercial.

World's Largest Crossword

The Ukrainian city of Lvov has recently installed what might just be the world's largest crossword (in physical size). The puzzle covers the entire side of a residential tower block that's approximately 30 meters tall. During the day the crossword appears empty - with the answers lighting up at night. The questions for the puzzle are located in different point of interests of the city: monuments, theatres, fountains etc. so people walking around the city can try to solve the puzzle and write down their answers. When night comes they can meet at this house and check how they did.

World's Largest Easter Egg

In 2005, a Belgian city entered the Guinness Book of Records creating the Largest Easter Egg ever. The Belgian chocolate producer Guylian made the chocolate egg with at least 50,000 bars. The egg measured 8.32 metres high, beating the previous record made in Kwazulu-Natal, South-Africa in 1996. Twenty-six craftsman worked altogether 525 hours to build the egg. They used 1950 kg (4300 lb) of chocolates.

World's Largest Burger

Weighing in at 123 pounds, this giant burger features an 80-pound beef patty, a 30-pound bun, 12 tomatoes and 160 slices of cheese. Made at Denny's Beer Barrel Pub, Pennsylvania restaurant, they also throw on a pound each of lettuce, ketchup, mustard and mayo -- and up to five onions. The menu price for the Beer Barrel Main Event Charity Burger comes at $379.

World's Largest Swimming Pool

This swimming pool is more than 1,000 yards long, covers 20 acres, had a 115ft deep end and holds 66 million gallons of water. Acknowledged by the Guinness Book of World Records as the world's largest swimming pool, it took five years to build, cost nearly £1billion and the annual maintenance bill will be £2million.

The man-made saltwater lagoon has been attracting huge crowds to the San Alfonso del Mar resort at Algarrobo, on Chile's southern coast. The saltwater pool contains 250,000 cubic metres of water and is even navigable in small boats.

World's Largest Chair

This is not Photoshopped —it's an actual photograph of the world's largest chair, in the piazza of Manzano, Italy, a city of chair makers where it was created.

World's Largest Birthday Cake

Made in 1962 for the Seattle World's Fair, the world's largest birthday cake weighted 25,000 pounds and stood 23 feet tall. The ingredients list includes the 10,500 pounds of flour needed for the cake.

World's Largest Cheese

Dutch gourmet cheese maker Beemster made a record-breaking cheese wheel. The giant cheese measures 6 feet wide and weighs 1,323 pounds.

World’s Largest Beer Can

Not much information on what could very well be the World’s Largest Beer Can.

World's Largest Football Table

Here’s the largest table football game in the world. In fact, Table Football XXL is so huge, two entire soccer teams — 22 players — could face off with it, settling their challenges without ever setting foos on a real field. This monster was built by Amsterdam brewer Amstel, a stunt that coincided with the European Champions League Finals. If this wanted to buy this one, you’d need six flight cases just to ship it to you.

2010 BMW X6 M

The modern, sustainable legacy of BMW M GmbH began in 1985 when engineers placed the snarling, race-bred inline-6 engine from the M1 supercar into the production BMW 5 Series sedan, reworked the suspension and brakes, and created the first M5. Through this industry-first combination of attributes, the M5 redefined the capabilities of a sedan with levels of power, precision, balance, and linear control never before imaginable. Since then, finding new ways to expand the boundaries of what is possible with existing BMW models has been the singular purpose of the craftsmen at BMW M. Now the BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M are the first all-wheel-drive models to offer the remarkable performance, dynamic driving experience, athletic design, and premium quality of a BMW M product.Both models are powered by a newly-developed 4.4-liter V8 M engine delivering 555 hp at 6,000 rpm and 500 lb-ft of torque from 1500 to 5,650 rpm. This new M engine is the world's first with a pulse-tuned exhaust manifold encompassing both rows of cylinders combined with high-performance twin-scroll twin turbo technology.For the X5 M and X6 M, engineers at BMW M pushed the capabilities of BMW's intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive system and the Dynamic Performance Control system to manage the power and performance potential of these two new vehicles. The special M suspension includes Adaptive Drive and newly-developed Servotronic power steering. These features combine to push the limits of what was previously possible with a sports-oriented vehicle, and guarantee driving behavior characteristic of a BMW M product: incredible stability and precisely controlled steering qualities abound throughout the performance envelope.

2009 BMW M3: The Race Version!!!

BMW presented the racing version of the new BMW M3 at the Chicago Auto Show. Powered by a 485 bhp eight cylinder engine, this impressive race car has been designed to compete in the American Le Mans Series (ALMS) beginning in 2009. The car is based on the fourth generation of the BMW M3, the high-performance sports car produced by BMW M GmbH.
BMW’s 2009 entry into the American Le Mans Series will be driven by a partnership between BMW of North America, LLC and Rahal Letterman Racing, co-owned by US motorsport legend Bobby Rahal. In the course of developing the race version of the BMW M3, BMW’s engineers were faced with an ambitious task: to improve upon the sportiness of an already sporting car. A better base would, though, be difficult to find. In standard form the vehicle delivers powerful dynamics and sporting aesthetics. Thanks to an eight cylinder engine producing 414 bhp, BMW’s customers are provided with a unique driving experience. Those engine blocks, cast in BMW’s light alloy foundry in Landshut - the very source of BMW’s Formula One castings - selected for race duty need to withstand even more power: the BMW P65 race engine delivers 485 bhp. In order to enable the BMW M3 to make full use of this performance on the race circuit, the experts in Munich have not concentrated solely on the engine, but have race-tuned the chassis as well. The race version of the BMW M3 is wider and significantly lighter than its production equivalent, enabling it to perfectly transmit the power of its V8 to the track. Widespread use of carbon-reinforced plastic (CRP) provides proof of substantial weight reduction. As with the production version, the race car’s roof is manufactured from this high-tech material.

Luxur Saab Car

Again we continue to prove that being eco-friendly does not mean the car has to be slow and ugly, as proven by one of Saab’s most amazing cars yet to be created, the Saab Aero X. This amazing Concept car was revealed in the 2006 Salon International de L’Auto. The Aero X is clearly a car inspired to fit the 21st century. The entire car from inside out was inspired by modern day fighting jets and is a 2 seats sports car. The car’s body is made out of carbon fiber making it lighter and stronger. The Aero X offers a unique one of a kind “door”. These are unlike anything you’ve ever seen. To get in the car the entire roof, along with the wind shield and “door” section opens up, just like in a jet. As you enter the car you come upon an entirely new world. The instrumentation are displayed in a mind blowing 3-D image. The 3-D image covers the entire area were you would usually have the air condition and radio instrumentation as well as were your performance information is usually at hand. The Aero X also hosts great comfort with 2 leather covered seats which further submerge you in its new world. However, another utterly amazing and unique characteristic is its windshield. This new windshield offers a complete 180 degree look, improving visibility and aerodynamics. This, and all the other futuristic concepts gives the car an amazing new environment. Nonetheless, the design of the car is not the only exceptional characteristic. The Aero X is an amazing eco-friendly machine. At the core of this is an state of the art V6 twin turbo BioPower engine producing 400 hp with a four-wheel drive. Because the Aero X uses 100% bioethanol it produces ZERO CO2 emissions. On top of being an eco-friendly engine, it propels the Aero X from 0-100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds. The Aero X also poses advanced 380 mm ventilated disks to keep it as safe as possible and enjoyable to drive. A very innovative aspect is that the wheels are designed to cool the brakes, so in terms act the blades in a jet turbine. Finally, if the car is well received by the public it may go into to production making it a must have for anyone interested in having one of the most modern cars. Again we can see that combining eco-friendly technology with unique extravagant designs is no problem for today’s people and technologies.

Jaguar XK

Unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show 2009, the new generation of 2010 Jaguar XK sports coupe and convertible has all-new engines giving more power and performance with greater efficiency; revised exterior styling and interior enhancements. All-new AJ-V8 Gen III direct-injection engines are the most advanced and efficient engines Jaguar has ever produced: 5.0-litre naturally aspirated AJ-V8 Gen III engine delivers 385PS (385bhp SAE), 515Nm of torque and propels XK to 60mph in just 5.2 seconds. The new XK delivers more power, more performance and more technology – without compromise. It moves the Jaguar sports car experience on to a whole new level. The new XK is a sophisticated grand tourer with the heart of a true sports car, combining effortless high-performance and state-of-the-art V8 powertrains with a new level of advanced technologies, intuitive control and Jaguar’s superbly crafted, new-fashioned luxury interiors.

Circuit Car by Lotus

The innovative and technologically advanced extruded and bonded aluminum chassis has high side sills that reduce the complexity of the chassis structure. The engine with VVTL-i (Variable Valve Timing and Lift – intelligent) is mated to a Roots-type Eaton M62 supercharger with air-to-air intercooler to give a maximum power output of 243 bhp at 8,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 174 lb-ft at 7,000 rpm. On production versions, an entry-level naturally-aspirated VVTL-i engine will also be available with 190 bhp at 8,000 rpm and 138 lb-ft at 7,000 rpm. Engine management control is provided by the bespoke - mapped Lotus T4 system and a drive-by-wire electronic throttle.

Stylish Concept Vehicle from Peugeot

Ideas sometimes come together to give life to even the most fantastic ideas. In some cases the dreams finally become reality, making way for part-real, part-fantasy automotive designs. The result of such an idea is the 308 RC Z concept cars. The 308 RC Z concept cars is a new Peugeot interpretation of driving pleasure. The car is a 2+2 coupe, with true versatility and at the same time a style that is modern, original and well-balanced. Attention initially focused on making the vehicle as light as possible by the use of numerous aluminum components, for example the two roll over protection bars that separate the passenger compartment and give shape to the exterior styling, and the use of a polycarbonate rear windscreen and a large number of carbon fiber body parts.

Toyota FT-HS

Now when talking about power, you can’t help but wish that you had access to a FT-HS. So far, most of these have been concept cars. Not this one though, as this vehicle is scheduled to go into production in 2009. Soon we can all be salivating at the beauty of its advanced hybrid - gasoline system, capable of moving you from 0 to 100kph/60mph in an astonishing four seconds flat. Now that’s what we call power!

The Fisker Karma

The Karma’s performance specs rev out at 0-60 mph in 6 seconds, and a top speed of 125 mph. At $80,000 USD, The car is a plug-in hybrid based on technology of Quantum Technologies. The Q DRIVE consists of a small gasoline engine which in turn charges the lithium battery packs in the car. According to Fisker, if charged properly, the hybrid would need to use no more than a fuel tank per year, quite a claim

Honda Civic Hybrid Efficient Features

Looking at, how it actually functions. As we put the car in start mode and accelerate, the electric motor takes over the engine. The Honda Civic Hybrid offers the exhilarating style, advanced level of safety and cutting-edge technology. And, with its dual feature of gasoline and electric functioning,Honda Civic Hybrid is rated among the best fuel efficient cars.
You can bank on your pockets with the cut down on fuel bills. Just take a test drive and you will gaga over the Hybrid. It is available in two colors, white and silver. It has other additional features such as four SRS airbags, dual zone automatic climate control AC, active headrest, audio steering control and lot more.

Maserati GranTurismo

Maserati is an Italian manufacturer of racing cars and sports cars, established on December 1, 1914 in Bologna. The company’s headquarters are now in Modena, and its emblem is a trident. It is a luxury car manufacturer competing directly with Aston Martin and Jaguar, and sometimes with large German mass-producers, including Audi, Mercedes-Benz and BMW. Today, it is owned by the Italian car giant Fiat S.p.A. since 1993. Inside the Fiat Group, Maserati has been initially associated with Ferrari S.p.A., more recently it is part of the sports car Group with Alfa Romeo. The Maserati brothers, Alfieri Maserati, Bindo Maserati, Carlo Maserati, Ettore Maserati, Ernesto Maserati and Mario Maserati, were all involved with automobiles from the beginning of the 20th century. Alfieri, Bindo and Ernesto built 2-litre Grand Prix cars for Diatto. In 1926, Diatto suspended the production of race cars, leading to the creation of the first Maserati and the founding of the Maserati marque. One of the first Maseratis, driven by Alfieri, won the 1926 Targa Florio. Maserati began making race cars with 4, 6, 8 and 16 cylinders (actually two straight eights mounted parallel to one another). Mario, an artist, is believed to have devised the company’s trident emblem, based on one the Fontana del Nettuno, Bologna. Alfieri Maserati died in 1932 but three other brothers, Bindo, Ernesto and Ettore, kept the firm going, building cars that won races.In 1937, the remaining Maserati brothers sold their shares in the company to the Adolfo Orsi family, who in 1940 relocated the company headquarters to their hometown of Modena, where it remains to this day. The brothers continued in engineering roles with the company, however. Racing successes continued, even against the giants of German racing, Auto Union and Mercedes. In 1939, a Maserati 8CTF won the Indianapolis 500, a feat repeated the following year.

Hamann BMW M6 widebody

Hamann offers its clients three different engine tuning options. The high revving 5 litre V10 with 507bhp and 520Nm is limited to 250km/h as standard. By removing the engine limiter, the racy Bavarian can reach a top speed of 300km/h, depending on the wheel and tyre combination.The second option is made up of a combination of removing the engine limiter and optimising the engine characteristics by reprogramming the standard engine computer. Hamann manages to tease an additional 30bhp/26kW and 15Nm out of the V10 engine.The "HM/M +60" sport kit provides even better performance. The kit is made up of high performance headers, metallic sports catalytic converters, a sports rear silencer, a sports air filter, an engine map optimisation and the removal of engine restrictions. As the name of the sports kit already suggests, the engine then provides around an additional 60bhp/44kW and can provide an extra 54Nm of torque, meaning that a notably faster top speed of up to 320km/h can be reached.

SSC - Ultimate Aero

SSC - Ultimate AeroThe latest high performance variant of the SSC Aero made its debut at the 2005 Concorso Italiano in Monterey, CA. The car was specifically created to challenge the 250 mph barrier, and with recent top speed attempts by Koenigsegg and Bugatti, the car will have to achieve that number if it wants to hold the title of 'World's Fastest Production Car'. Following the creation of the 787 horsepower 'Standard' Aero, the Ultimate version features enhanced body work with improved downforce at higher speed, as well as a more powerful version of the supercharged V8 engine in the standard car. An increase in boost, a modified cam, and an upgraded fuel delivery system help the engine make over 1,000 hp, topping the Bugatti Veyron. The car is also lighter by 200 pounds due to lightweight materials. The bodywork alone weighs under 150 lbs. The visual differences can mostly be seen in the rear of the car, which is sloped behind the cockpit and ends in a small spoiler. Using the testing in the windtunnel, the 250 mph should be achievable if a suitable track can be found. High speed test runs are planned for later this year.Car maker SCC plan to prove their Aero can beat the 250 mph mark. SSC has yet to verify the cars actual performance values, but they say that the car should be capable of of 260 to 273 mph. Each Aero has a heavily modified Corvette engine which is forced fed by a supercharger which the final result is 1050bhp. It's has a steel space frame and is covered by the carbon fibre body panels.

The latest supercar from Lamborghini

Clearly a Lamborghini, but nothing quite like it. A super car without compromise, the Lamborghini Reventon is a road vehicle with an extreme specification and, at the same time, a limited edition masterpiece – with it's coherent style, and angular sharp lines, inspired by the very latest aeronautics. With only 20 produced, each 1 Million Euro (without taxes) the 2009 Lamborghini Reventon is a symbol of extreme exclusivity, yet still offering the extraordinary performance that makes the Reventon so unrivalled: under the completely autonomous design, the Reventon possesses the entire technical and dynamic competence of the twelve cylinder Lamborghini. The name Reventon has been chosen according to Lamborghini tradition. Reventon was a fighting bull, owned by the Don Rodriguez family. It is included in the list of the most famous bulls ever and is known for killing the famed bullfighter Felix Guzman in 1943.

The latest supercar from Lamborghini

Clearly a Lamborghini, but nothing quite like it. A super car without compromise, the Lamborghini Reventon is a road vehicle with an extreme specification and, at the same time, a limited edition masterpiece – with it's coherent style, and angular sharp lines, inspired by the very latest aeronautics. With only 20 produced, each 1 Million Euro (without taxes) the 2009 Lamborghini Reventon is a symbol of extreme exclusivity, yet still offering the extraordinary performance that makes the Reventon so unrivalled: under the completely autonomous design, the Reventon possesses the entire technical and dynamic competence of the twelve cylinder Lamborghini. The name Reventon has been chosen according to Lamborghini tradition. Reventon was a fighting bull, owned by the Don Rodriguez family. It is included in the list of the most famous bulls ever and is known for killing the famed bullfighter Felix Guzman in 1943.

Audi R8 - The Stunning Supercar from Audi

The 2007 Audi R8 was built to take your breath away. Audi’s leading designers have pushed the boundaries of racing technology, futuristic construction and luxury refinement to deliver a genuine masterpiece. The R8’s features include a centrally-mounted, high-revving V8 petrol engine, Audi Space Frame (ASF) construction, front and rear double wishbone suspension and the stability of quattro four-wheel-drive. Low and wide, the new Audi R8 crouches on the road, waiting for just one thing: the driver’s command to spring into action. The Audi single-frame grille adapted to the proportions of a sports car, the colour-contrasting sideblades (available optionally in Oxygen Silver or Carbon Sigma), the LED rear lights and daytime running lights… this is a car designed to take your breath away.

Mercedes Benz McLaren SLR

Mercedes Benz SLR McLaren The Mercedes Benz SLR McLaren is an amazing sports car and supercar co-developed by DaimlerChrysler and McLaren Cars. Most people presume "SLR" to stand for "Sportlich, Leicht, Rennsport" (German for "Sport; Light; Racing"). The car's base price is £300,000 or $455,500 (including $2500 shipping and $3000 gas-guzzler tax). According to the German magazine Auto Motor und Sport, September 2006 may mark an update to the SLR including a power increase for its supercharged V8 from 626 to 650 hp DIN (German horsepower numbers), an updated interior, 19-inch wheels, a firmer suspension, a new braking system and increased weight savings. New colors (blue exterior, tan interior) may also be available. Rob Moran, the U.S Representative for Merecedes-Benz, states, "We'll reveal it when It's ready

Lexus ES350 Overview

MSRP Range:$34,320 Get Real Dealer PricingBodystyles:SedanTransmissions:6-Speed Semi-AutomaticDrivetrains:Front Wheel DriveThe Lexus ES350 model for the 2007 edition is a sedan that incorporates the quality, styling, and engineering the Lexus has become known for. This redesigned model has been made quieter and a smooth running vehicle. It is not a Lexus answer to a sports model. That area was already covered for Lexus and the ES350 was designed to fill a perceived gap in the sedan model line-up.The ES350 has a powerful engine and the ability to accelerate when necessary. It does not do this with sports type design, but with a sedan design that belies its ability to do what a sports model is built for. The ES350 just carries this out with a dignified...The Lexus ES350 model for the 2007 edition is a sedan that incorporates the quality, styling, and engineering the Lexus has become known for. This redesigned model has been made quieter and a smooth running vehicle. It is not a Lexus answer to a sports model. That area was already covered for Lexus and the ES350 was designed to fill a perceived gap in the sedan model line-up.The ES350 has a powerful engine and the ability to accelerate when necessary. It does not do this with sports type design, but with a sedan design that belies its ability to do what a sports model is built for. The ES350 just carries this out with a dignified and comfortable sedan design.The ES350 come with a silky smooth V6 engine and a 6-speed automatic transmission. This engine is so quiet that the driver wonders if it is running. Try it for yourself and be impresses

Overview 2009 Toyota Camry

Everything you ever wanted to know about the 2009 Toyota Camry, you can learn here.
Get basic information such as price range, fuel economy and trim options.
Or, click one of the links on the left to get more information or to compare vehicles.See yourself in a car like this? Ente
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Price:
$25,575
Horsepower: 158
Fuel Mileage:
Hwy: 31 MPG
City: 21 MPG

2009 Chevrolet Traverse

Price:$29,255Horsepower: 281Fuel Mileage:Hwy: 24 MPGCity: 17 MPGNHTSA Crash Test Rating:Avg. Consumer Rating 5.0 of 5.0Based on 2 reviews100% of consumers (2 of 2) would recommend this model to a friend.http://www.autotrader.com/research/model_info/model-overview.jsp?styleId=305508http://www.autotrader.com/research/reviews/write_review.jspRead Reviews Write a reviewAverage consumer ratings are based on the vehicle model, regardless of what trim level is displayed.

Lamborghini Reventon

Clearly a Lamborghini, but nothing quite like it. A super car without compromise, the Lamborghini Reventon is a road vehicle with an extreme specification and, at the same time, a limited edition masterpiece – with it's coherent style, and angular sharp lines, inspired by the very latest aeronautics.With only 20 produced, each 1 Million Euro (without taxes) the 2009 Lamborghini Reventon is a symbol of extreme exclusivity, yet still offering the extraordinary performance that makes the Reventon so unrivalled: under the completely autonomous design, the Reventon possesses the entire technical and dynamic competence of the twelve cylinder Lamborghini

Luxurious Car - BMW M1

If you love the speed and also want the look than this BMW M1 car is definitely for you. I am sure if you own this BMW M1 than you will be a known person in your group. This have peculiar kind of look of BMW but if you look from behind than this car got the sporty look as well.As showing in photos ... red will be the perfect colour for this BMW M1. But however you can also try black. Allow wheel giving it a perfect and more attractive look.

Nissan GT-R Stacked Up To (And Over) The NSX

Remember when we started referring to the Nissan GT-R as Godzilla? You probably thought it was just us making a clever commentary on the prospects of the new Nissan as a sales leader (though not everyone agrees that'll happen). Nope. We were talking about how freaking ginormous the thing is. Thanks to the folks over at i-club, we now can represent this idea visually.

Information on Nissan GT-R Preview

Nissan GT-R

What we know about the GT-R is that it will share its underpinnings with the Infiniti G35 coupe and sedan and the Nissan Z. Power will come from a twin-turbocharged V6 engine, with power rumored to be somewhere between 400 to 450 horsepower, believable considering the size of the twin exhausts we saw on the prototype we photographed earlier this year in LA. The GT-R has also sported all-wheel drive since the 80s, and we're confident that the newest one will, too.

Spain: Comes Nissan NP300

With the arrival of Nissan Navara had disappeared the previous generation, but with current legislation, pick up have suffered a significant price increase, which has left an important gap for those who need a more basic than a Pathfinder pickup. For all these reasons, arrives at the Spanish market Nissan NP300 .

With a trade name unattractive, the new Nissan joins the range of vehicles targeted a mixed use work / leisure, with a price more attractive and generally good qualities. The diesel engine is the same as that used in previous Nissan Navara, with 2.5 liters and 133 hp.

Depending on the body may be able to three or five passengers-four in the King Cab-while finishes and equipment are simple, but fulfilled. The air conditioning, ABS, dual airbags, power pack and sound equipment are available, either as standard or as an option.

2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe Officially Unveiled...Well Sort Of

Hyundai is going to officially unveil the all-new 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe at the New York Auto Show this week, but thanks to quite a few sites the photos are already out there.

Coupe Reports 2 Door Coupe Reviews, Ratings, & Reports Hyundai Coupe To Steal Sales from BMW and Mercedes

The Hyundai Coupe isn’t a vehicle that has gotten a lot of attention in the luxury car market. However, luxury coupe sales like those of the BMW Coupe and the Mercedes Coupe have gone down as the economy has begun to shift. For that reason, Hyundai’s slightly more affordable luxury Genesis may be able to steal some of the market away from higher-end cars.

Luxury Coupe Sales are Down

In general, luxury coupe sales have declined. Mercedes Reviews and BMW Reviews indicate that these vehicles are still well-liked but sales show that the Mercedes Coupe and BMW Coupe (along with higher-end Infiniti Coupes and the Lexus Coupe) are declining.

Hyundai Coupe is Affordable

The Hyundai Coupe is in a unique position because it is a luxury coupe which is considerably more affordable than the Mercedes Coupe or BMW Coupe. However, the Hyundai Coupe is a high-priced car in terms of Hyundai Cars. This means that Hyundai could use the change in coupe sales to attract a higher-paying buyer than in the past despite the fact that the coupe is lower in price than the other luxury coupes that are out there.

2007 Hyundai Tiburon

The Tiburon has been restyled with lower-profile headlamps that give Hyundai's sports coupe a more mainstream Japanese look. Hyundai has also tweaked the top-of-the-line SE model's handling to enhance its appeal to enthusiasts.

Hyundai Announces Pricing on All-New Flagship 2009 Hyundai Genesis Sedan

2009 Hyundai Genesis

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, CALIF., 05/28/2008 -- Hyundai Motor America has announced prices for its new flagship, the all-new 2009 Hyundai Genesis sports sedan, starting at $33,000 for a well-equipped 290-horsepower V6 and $38,000 for the 375-horsepower V8 model.

Hyundai, HKS USA Collaborate to Unveil Genesis Coupe at 2008 SEMA Show

HKS Genesis Coupe: High-performance Genesis Coupe 2.0t for the 2008 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., 09/03/2008 -- Hyundai Motor America today announced that HKS USA, Inc. will create a high-performance Genesis Coupe 2.0t for the 2008 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show. The all-new, rear-wheel drive Hyundai model will make its SEMA debut at the Las Vegas Convention Center Nov. 4 – Nov. 7, 2008. HKS, the leading manufacturer of premium performance parts, is the second company to join Hyundai for this year’s SEMA show.

2008 Citroen C5 II: Official Images

We’re still in the dark when it comes to specs but we do know that the all-new C5 is based on the Peugeot 407 chassis and like the current C5, it too will be equipped with Citroen’s fabulous hydropneumatic suspension. We also now that Citroen’s designers have “sculptured” a beautiful and dynamic shape for the new C5 which will be offered initially in sedan and station wagon variants. Same goes for the interior though we could have done without that weird steering wheel with the fixed hub and the 20,000 buttons.

Citroen join forces with Red Bull

Citroën Sport is pleased to announce the arrival of Red Bull as a new partner of its programme with the Citroën C4 WRC and its crews Sébastien Loeb/Daniel Elena and Dani Sordo/Marc Marti in the FIA World Rally Championship.


It is the combination of the Citroën brand's international reputation, Team Citroën
Total's outstanding performance record and the exceptional personality of the
drivers (three Manufacturers' titles, plus four consecutive world titles for
Sébastien Loeb and Daniel Elena) that perfectly matches the vision of Red Bull –
creator and global leader of the energy drinks market – which is looking at
developing closer ties with the French market.

Citroën Sport Director Olivier Quesnel is delighted with this association which will
begin from the very next round of the 2008 World Rally Championship, Rally
Argentina (March 27-30). "We are extremely happy to have this exciting new
opportunity to work with such a dynamic company as Red Bull. The images of our
respective firms are very complementary and this partnership will be beneficial
since it slots in perfectly with rally sport and with Citroën, which is a particularly
active brand."

Red Bull GmbH is based in Fuschl am See, near Salzburg in Austria, and is
present in more than 130 countries across the world. The philosophy behind Red
Bull's partnerships in the world of sport is based on building strong associations
with sportsmen and women who excel in their particular domains.
Red Bull joins Team Citroën-Total's existing partners for 2008, namely Pirelli, Le
Coq Sportif, Eurodatacar, Citroën Financement, Magneti-Marelli, Sabelt,
Transalliance, OZ Racing and Météo France Sports.