zoomvroom Car Reviews, New car info, World News

The 12 Stunning Detroit International Auto Show Debuts!

The Detroit International Auto Show always has a lot of cool new debuts.  As one might expect, a LOT of new American metal debuts there.  But, foreign cars are also starting to be debuted at Detroit more and more.  Enjoy my top 12 debuts

  1. 2015 Ford F150:  With the majority of the 2015 Ford F150 made out of aluminum, the 2015 Ford F150 lost almost 700 pounds.  In terms of design, Ford clearly heard the raving about the Atlas Concept.  The 2015 F150 looks almost exactly like the Atlas!  In terms of engines, Ford’s taken the liberty of making smaller, more powerful engines the norm for the F150.  The base engine is a 3.5-liter V6 (the same one residing under the hood of the Explorer).  Ford also dropped the thirsty 6.2-liter V8 from the lineup.  The only available V8 is the splendid 5.0-liter “Coyote” V8 shared with the Mustang.  The 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 stays, but the EcoBoost has a smaller EcoBoost sister engine.  The smaller EcoBoost engine displaces a seemingly small 2.7 liters, yet makes as much power as the outgoing 3.7-liter V6.  All four engines will be mated to Ford’s six-speed automatic, but don’t be surprised to see the 10-speed automatic being co-developed with GM come into the mix sometime soon.  I can’t wait to see the 2015 F150 in person!
  2. 2015 Chrysler 200:  Chrysler’s been hit hard the last five or six years.  First, it’s bankruptcy.  Then, it’s being bought out completely by Fiat, then it’s just about every model coming out of the Auburn Hills factory being blasted with hate mail from every single automotive magazine in the U.S.  Chrysler’s trying to make up that image.  The design of the 2015 Chrysler 200 is simply stunning.  Based on the Dodge Dart’s platform, the 2015 Chrysler 200 will be instantly recognizable to anybody who has seen a 2013 Dodge Dart.  Chrysler’s trying to make the 200 easier to live with.  It’s got standard pass-through storage, better ergonomics, and most things in the cabin are electronic.  The 9-speed automatic that is used in the Jeep Cherokee will be standard across the line.  A 2.4-liter TigerShark 4-cylinder engine borrowed from the Dodge Dart is standard.  The step-up engine is a 295-horsepower 3.6-liter Pentastar V6.  I don’t know about you, but Chrysler just might be able to make an extremely competitive car in an extremely competitive segment.
  3. 2015 Cadillac ATS Coupe:  Cadillac’s seen a massive resurgence in past years.  The 2008 CTS won Motor Trend’s 2008 Car of the Year trophy, and the 2013 ATS and 2014 CTS have both been praised for their good looks and fun-to-drive factors.  Just about everything is shared with the ATS sedan.  That’s a good thing.  The 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine has 295-lb-ft of torque available at 3000 RPM.  Amazingly, the ATS coupe is said to weigh just 45 more pounds than the ATS sedan.  Cadillac’s even partnered with AT&T, Verizon, and T Mobile to ensure that the ATS Coupe has 4G LTE hotspot connectivity.
  4. 2015 BMW M3/M4:  BMW’s become obsessed with turbocharged engines.  Not only do they offer more performance, but they reduce weight and give better fuel economy.  The 2015 M3/M4 have a twin-turbocharged inline-six-cylinder engine that makes somewhere in the neighborhood of 425 horsepower.  The standard transmission is a six-speed manual (score for the purists), and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission borrowed from the M5 is optional.  BMW says that they cut 175 pounds compared to the E90 generation M3, so the 2015 M3/M4 should weigh about as much as an E46 M3.  The M3/M4 look extremely aggressive.  The front ends have massive air intakes, a bulging power-rise hood, and a wider front and rear track compared to the standard 3/4 Series models.
  5. 2015 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray ZO6:  The 2015 ZO6 makes 625 horsepower (13 less than the ZR-1), and it has an 8-speed automatic transmission that shifts faster than a Porsche PDK transmission.  Chevy’s offering THREE aerodynamics packages borrowed from the C7.R race car, and it has the seven-speed manual transmission from the regular Stingray standard.  GM says that the 2015 ZO6 shattered course records at the Milford proving grounds on its FIRST time at the track!
  6. 2015 Ford Mustang:  Since I’ve already covered the 2015 Ford Mustang, I won’t spend too terribly much time on the 2015 Mustang.  Ford won’t answer many questions about the 2015 Mustang, which means that they’re still working on it.  Whatever.  It looks great, and I expect it to handle much better, as it’s been redesigned from the ground up!
  7. 2014 Porsche 911 Targa:  Finally, Porsche’s come out with the return of the iconic 911 Targa.  The 911 Targa doesn’t have the sliding top like previous Targas.  The Porsche 911 Targa is sure to bring back fond memories for many.  Because it’s a Porsche, expect to be set back at least $100,000 for a Targa 4S.  I can’t wait to see the 2014 911 Targa in person!
  8. 2015 Subaru Impreza WRX STI:  Subaru has made it’s reputation for making pocket rockets.  The 2015 WRX gave some hope for enthusiasts.  It’s equally at home rocketing down a gravel road or zooming around a track.  The STI improves on that.  It makes 305 horsepower (it uses the same engine as the previous generation), but it looks a whole lot better than the previous generation.  It looks more like a DTM race car combined with a WRC rally car.  Subie won’t tell ANYBODY how much the STI will weigh.  That’s a shame, because previous Subaru WRX STI’s have been plump.
  9. Kia GT4 Stinger Concept:  I think that I can safely agree with everybody here that Kia seriously needs to stop making amazing-looking concept cars until it decides to build them.  The GT4 Stinger has four seats, a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, rear-wheel drive, and a six-speed manual.  Naturally, one’s mind drifts towards the Subaru BR-Z and Scion FR-S, the natural competitors to the GT4 Stinger.  Before Kia shoves this car into some secret bunker at the 38th Parallel, they need to build this car.  The engine is essentially a depowered version of the 400-horsepower engine used in the Pirelli World Challenge Optimas.  Kia, are you reading my thoughts?  If you are, BUILD THIS CAR!
  10. Toyota FT-1 Concept:  Toyota’s trying to appeal to enthusiasts.  The last car that did that?  The Supra.  Toyota’s FT-1 looks stunning, and it’s even available in Gran Turismo 6!  Toyota won’t tell what’s under the hood.  We all know that the Supra engine is dead.  Lexus is experimenting with high-powered 5.0-liter V8s in the IS F, and I could easily see the IS F’s engine under the hood of this stunning concept.  Even if Toyota doesn’t build this car, it still shows what future Toyota styling might look like.
  11. Volvo XC Concept Coupe:  Volvo’s made it’s living with industry-leading safety advances, but safety doesn’t sell millions of cars.  So, Volvo’s started cranking out extremely promising concept cars.  Considering that Plug-in Hybrid is etched into the fenders, it’s obvious that the XC Concept Coupe is definitely a hybrid.  Volvo stresses the fact that the XC Concept Coupe has “rich XC Heritage.”  Considering Volvo’s been making SUV’s since 1997, one could agree that the XC Concept Coupe would look stellar as a shooting brake.  
  12. Audi A8 L Security:  Some fullsize  luxury sedan buyers want theirs to be bulletproof.  Audi’s joined the fight against gunfight victims with the A8 L Security.  The A8 L Security is beefed up to an extreme.  It takes 450 man-hours to make all of the bulletproof components for the A8 L Security.  It is able to withstand sub-caliber machine gun fire, and buyers can even opt for an emergency exit system that blows the hinges off the doors, as well as a fire suppression system and an emergency fresh-air system.  The extra weight will substantially hamper performance, but the driver and passengers can get out of a sticky situation safer.

On a separate note, I have to go in for surgery next week.  During my time in the hospital, I will not have access to a computer, and I probably won’t be up to publishing anyways!  I don’t know how long I will be out for, but keep yourselves entertained with the Motor Trend Youtube Channel!  My favorite show is Roadkill.  I think you’ll enjoy it just as much as I do.  You can start watching the videos now at http://www.youtube.com/user/MotorTrend

zoomvroom Car Reviews

A Life Dream…Come True

Meet the Lucra LC470.  It’s powered by either a monstrously underrated Mercedes-Benz AMG 6.2-liter V8, a Chevy Corvette LS3 engine, or a Chevy Corvette LS7 engine.  Luke Richards, the founder of Lucra Cars, founded the company in 2006.

Let’s start with some history on Lucra. When Luke was growing up in England, his father always had a sports car of some sort (lucky guy).  His father’s sports cars were great in the curves, but absolutely slow on the straightaways.  Coming over to America as a teenager introduced Luke to the big American muscle cars with the rumbling V8’s.  They were brutally quick on the straightaways, but throw one into a curve, and you’d better have something to hold onto!  Luke was so dissatisfied with the European and American cars that he began the search for a car that was the best of both worlds. For the next 20 years or so, Luke pursued a variety of automotive-related careers.  His first automotive job was a lock boy at a local car dealership.  He eventually became a trusted confidant of the owner of the dealer group.  Next was a job in San Diego where he sold rare and vintage sports cars.  However, demand outpaced supply, and Luke moved on to be a plane pilot.  After he decided that flying private planes for people wasn’t his thing, Luke moved onto building and selling classic Porsche 356 Speedsters.  During this time, he became friends with Chuck Beck, a legend in Porsche Speedster replicas and race car design. Finally, Luke decided that all of his car-related knowledge and jobs had paid off.  Luke founded Lucra Cars in 2006.  Luke started design of the car in 2005, but it took him until 2010 to build the car. Luke procured the knowledge and experience of Beck to help him embark on creating his dream car.  The eventual result?  The 2010 Lucra LC470.  Beck had built a knock-off of the legendary 1958 Lister Cars road racer roadster, but it was about the same size as the original Lister.  Luke, who stands at well over six and a half feet tall, simply couldn’t fit. With the knowledge of Beck, Luke helped build a car that was larger and more comfortable.  Luke and Beck successfully created a car with a smooth, flowing body that captured the timeless lines of the 1958 Lister.  Since the 1958 Lister was extremely aerodynamic, the Lucra LC470 has extremely good aerodynamics and timeless styling.  Luke wanted the LC470 to have optimal performance.  So, Luke wooed a well-known NASCAR frame builder to engineer the LC470’s chassis so that the single-piece carbon fiber body would fit perfectly.  While building the frame, special attention was paid to the fact that the weight distribution had to be nearly perfect, so the LC470 could offer optimal weight distribution, balance, and maneuverability.  The result?  The Lucra LC470 handles like a go-kart on steroids.  It will easily pull over 1G cornering – if the driver is willing! Most of the parts for the LC470 are custom-made.  That’s not to say that all of them are.  There are three engine choices:

  1. Mercedes-Benz AMG 6.3-liter V8 (Welstec Supercharger is optional).  This engine is tried and true on streets.  It’s seen service in the E63 AMG, C63 AMG, G63 AMG, and the SLS AMG.  This engine will make other drivers take their hands off of the steering wheel to plug their ears!  It’s rated by AMG at 563 horsepower in the SLS, which is where the engine is pulled from.
  2. GM 6.2 LS3:  The LS3 is a very good, powerful engine.  It powers the Camaro SS, the Corvette C6, the much-beloved Pontiac G8, and the all-new Chevy SS.  This engine is powerful, and it makes about 480 horsepower.  It may be rated at 430 in the Corvette, but it really makes more than that.
  3. GM 7.0-liter LS7:  The LS7 saw duty in the Corvette C6 ZO6.  It currently is powering the Camaro Z/28.  It makes 505 horsepower in the Corvette Z06.  Lucra tweaks the LS7 to make 630-680 horsepower.  This engine sounds spectacular, and it makes the car a monster.

Tremec Transmissions makes a special five-speed manual transmission for the LC470.  Why no six-speed?  An extra gear adds more weight.  Opting for the LS3 will propel the LC470 to 60 mph in a mind-boggling 3.4 seconds.  But, the LS7 and AMG engine will take you to 60 in a freaky 2.7 seconds.  That’s on par with a Porsche 911 Turbo S and Bugatti Veyron Super Sport! The Lucra LC470 is a car like no other.  It’s like a modern Shelby Cobra, but it’s got handling that’s world’s better.  Yeah, I know that the Cobra is from the 1960’s.  But, give me the keys to an LC470 with the LS3 and the keys to a Cobra with the 289 cubic-inch V8, and I will happily gush affections about both!  I might even let my dad drive the Cobra… I haven’t seen one in person, but I will!  Luke says that the LC470 evokes a primal reaction.  I don’t doubt him.  The pictures that I have are stunning, and I would happily stand for hours just staring at one!  Luke has dozens of hilarious stories to prove it – he drives an LC470 daily.  I’ll share one of his stories with you. Luke was literally hunted down by a Hollywood celebrity while enjoying breakfast with friends in Hollywood.  While he was sitting at a table with some friends enjoying a wonderful breakfast, he saw a woman pacing intensely outside of his car.  This happens a lot to Luke.  But, this lady had driven past Luke’s parked LC470, parked three blocks down, and then walked to his car.  This would be funny, but it gets better!  The woman correctly assumed that the vehicle’s owner was inside that restaurant, and approached the Maitre d’ to track down the owner of this captivating car.  After she was reluctantly pointed to Luke, she pushed her way through the crowded restaurant, and upon arriving at Luke’s table, takes off her aviator glasses, looks at Luke, and says, “Hi, I’m Sharon Stone.  Now, is that your car?”

Overall, the Lucra LC470 is a car that is a masterpiece, and a dream come true for Luke – and many enthusiasts.  I’m sure that you’ll agree with me that the Lucra LC470 is a dream come true for you.  For those of you who have been lucky to own a 1958 Lister, or have seen one in action, I hope that the LC470 brings back fond memories.

I have attached the Motor Trend Youtube Channel video documenting the Lucra story, as well as the LC470.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7EbQjzZbwQM

You can spend time on the Lucra website at:  http://www.lucracars.com/

Enjoy the pictures that I have attached of the LC470 for you to drool over…

I'd take the LC470 in a different color combination - how about red and white? But, it still looks stunning
I’d take the LC470 in a different color combination – how about red and white? But, it still looks stunning
This picture of the epic burnout of the LC470 from the Motor Trend Youtube Channel was pulled off of the Lucra website. I just think that this action shot is awesome! Thanks to Lucra Cars for having such amazing pictures!
This picture of the epic burnout of the LC470 from the Motor Trend Youtube Channel was pulled off of the Lucra website. I just think that this action shot is awesome! Thanks to Lucra Cars for having such amazing pictures!

zoomvroom Car Culture, Car Reviews, New car info, Road Trips

The Best Cars for the End of the Holiday Season!

I think that this is a bit of a tradition for me.  Last year, I wrote a post about the same time as this one.  It was also about the best cars for the end of the holiday season.  I have fond memories of picking through cars that I thought deserved to be on this list.  While my list may not be as prestigious as Car & Driver’s 10Best, I would like to think of it as my personal version.  Except, I will be doing a list like this for every season!  That’s right:  Winter, spring, summer, and fall!  After much thought, I have finally decided what cars deserve to be on my list.  The criteria for the cars:  The cars on the list must all be new or substantially updated, they must be able to be entertaining in a snowy climate, and they must be able to seat at least four people comfortably (that way you can go on a road trip with the kids or friends!).  Enjoy my list!

  1. Bentley Flying Spur:  The Bentley Continental Flying Spur Speed was on my list last year.  However, the Flying Spur is no longer burdened with the Continental name.  It does still share a platform with the Continental, though.  It’s a brute of a car, weighing in at 5644 pounds.  It’s definitely as large as an elephant – it is 17.4 feet long, and it it weighs as much as a male elephant bull.  Don’t despair – this car rockets to 60 mph in an equally stunning 4.3 seconds.  This car will keep pace with a sprightly Lotus Evora S all day, without much drama or effort.  This car has 616 horsepower mated to a superb ZF 8-speed automatic transmission.  The powerful W12 engine is more efficient – it gets 12/20 MPG city/highway, according to the EPA.  However, snowy hoonage will likely lower that number…  It has every option one can imagine, including private multimedia screens for the kids.  Bang & Olufsen sound-deadening wireless headphones will keep the people in front sane.
  2. Ford F-150 FX2/FX4 Sport Tremor:  The Ford F-150 SVT Raptor Crew Cab rumbled and burbled its way onto my list last year because of its substantial updates, most notably the 6.2 liter V8.  This year, it’s more efficient, yet just-as-fun sister joins the party.  The Sport Tremor comes in 2WD or 4WD, regular cab only.  It comes with Ford’s powerful, efficient 3.5-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost V6.  Power gets there through a 4.10:1 rear end, so these trucks will be fast.  I know that it doesn’t seat four, but don’t despair – you can always get the Raptor!  The performance figures for the Sport Tremor aren’t out yet, but a 2012 Ford F-150 XLT 4X4 Crew Cab got to 60 in a quite-respectable 6.2 seconds.  Expect the Sport Tremor to get there in about 5.8-5.9 seconds.  While it won’t keep up with the Bentley in a straight line, it CAN haul a whole lot more, and get better gas mileage!
  3. SRT Viper/GTS/TA:  The Viper has a ground-shaking 8.4-liter V10 that pumps out 640 horsepower.  It comes with a 6-speed manual transmission and RWD only.  This will play with the boys.  I know that it doesn’t seat four, but hey, it’s a Viper.  It’s not a Bentley!  The RWD, 640 horse Viper should be a hoot to hoon around in the snow.  Stability control and traction control will help.
  4. Porsche 911 Turbo/Turbo S:  The Porsche 911 Turbo is a great car to own.  Not only will the 991-generation Turbo remain a collectible for a long time, but the 991 911 Turbo/Turbo S has a bunch of new technology designed to help the driver get around a track faster.  It has AWD, 560 horsepower in the Turbo S, and seats for four.  While the rear seats may only be fit for presents, the kids will have to suck it up and squeeze in there for a bit.  But, the drive there will be worth it.  The 911 Turbo/Turbo S is turbocharged, which makes it a cinch to drive fast, especially in wet or low-traction environments.  This car was designed to make the worst of drivers look good, and the best of drivers look legendary.  Have fun with this car.
  5. Porsche 918 Spyder:  If you own this car, I want to go for a spin in it!  Porsche has had the 918 Spyder in testing for years – prototypes were running around Germany as far back as 2007.  The 918 Spyder has a hybrid-electric system that distributes the gobs of 874 horsepower and an astounding 944 lb-ft of torque to all four wheels.  The 918 Spyder Weissach Package loses 88 pounds by using ceramic wheel bearings and film wrap instead of conventional aluminum and paint.  It won’t seat any more than two, but that’s okay.  This car will blow your mind at the speeds it reaches without effort, as well as the confidence it gives the driver at any speed.
  6. Subaru WRX:  Subie is legendary in the rally world for building fast, reliable cars that don’t look like much.  The 2015 WRX lives up to these statements.  It loses the massive rear wing found on the previous generation of WRXs, but it has power and fun.  It is bigger, but it makes 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque.  It’s suspension has been firmed up 39% in the front, and 62% in the rear.  This car will play all day with a Mitsubishi Lancer Evo, and be as flat as a Porsche Cayman S while cornering.  The torque vectoring system uses the rear differential instead of the brakes to vector the torque.  It doesn’t look pretty, but then again, no Subie in recent memory has looked mesmerizing.  Subaru invests money in engineering, not in styling.  That’s fine with me.
  7. Jeep Cherokee:  For those of you who remember the Jeep Cherokees of yore, close this tab, shut off your computer, grab your wallet, and go get a Jeep Wrangler.  This Cherokee is NOTHING like the harsh-riding Cherokees of the 1980s and 1990s.  This Cherokee comes standard with FWD, but 4WD is optional.  The Cherokee Trailhawk will keep pace with a stock Wrangler or SVT Raptor all day long without breaking a sweat.  The Cherokee is packed with lots of useful, cool tech.  I won’t bore you all of that technology, but I will say that for those in need of something affordable with 4WD, the Cherokee deserves a second look.
  8. Chevrolet SS:  The Chevy SS is the thunder from down under.  It’s based off of the Holden Commodore, and it’s got a high-performance 6.2-liter V8 with 415 horsepower.  The SS is the first RWD Chevy sedan since 1996 for civilian use – the Caprice PPV is available for lucky cops, and it’s truly spectacular.  It is capable of making those who owned a muscle car as a teenager feel young again, while allowing Mom and the kids to experience the fun.  It’s not all about burnouts – the SS can hold its own in the twisties.  The 415-horse V8 and six-speed automatic mated to RWD will make it entertaining for anybody to drive, any season, at any time.  I want one, if you haven’t noticed!
  9. 2014 Chevrolet Silverado:  Chevy is good at this game!  Two cars on my list is kinda hard.  Yet, Chevy introduced two cars capable of being on this list, which both of them are.  The 2014 Silverado truly gives the buyer everything that is needed or wanted, and then some.  There are literally 50 different cab/bed combinations, let alone the plethora of engine/transmission/2WD/4WD combinations.  The 2014 Silverado was designed to be one of the best in the game, and it doesn’t disappoint.  It’s got clever tech for all of the engines to make the engines more competitive in an ever-evolving segment.  The Silverado doesn’t come with the option of an extended cab anymore – safety regulations and loss of demand killed it for Chevy, but it comes with a “Quad Cab” option that offers more space than an extended cab, as well as the look of a crew cab.  It starts off as a perfectly nice base model, before climbing the ladder of expensive and unneeded options to become a pure luxury truck.
  10. Ram 1500:  The Ram 1500 has long been one of my favorite 1/2 ton trucks.  Ever since it’s massive – and popular redesign in 1993, the Ram 1500 has always had a brutish Hemi V8 underhood.  Recently, Ram introduced an EcoDiesel V6 shared with the Jeep Grand Cherokee.  It’s the first diesel in a 1/2 ton pickup since the 1980s.  I know the deal about diesels.  My dad owns a 2003 GMC 2500 4X4 with the Duramax diesel.  But, the Ram 1500 offers the same noise levels as the Ram equipped with the Hemi V8.  If you don’t want a diesel, you can always opt for the refreshed Hemi V8, which has more cool tech to aid in towing and hauling.

Have a fun, happiness-filled end of the holiday season!  In these final days of 2013, I urge you to take a walk in the park with friends, your kids, and/or the family dog (if you have one), and do whatever fills your heart with enjoyment.  Have a wonderful Winter Break!

Enjoy the pictures of the cars (and trucks!) on my list:

zoomvroom Car Culture, Car Reviews

Wanna Drive the Fastest Convertible…In the World?

While Bugatti may hold an unofficial record for the fastest production car ever (Bugatti recently announced that they took off the speed governor on the car used for Guinness Book of World Records testing.  They also used race-spec tires.  Both of those disqualified the car.)  The fastest production car in the world is the SSC Ultimate Aero TT, which went 255.83 mph in 2007.  However, Bugatti didn’t let that unofficial record hit them in the gut. They took the Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse up to its top speed of 254 mph.  That’s official, according to the Guinness Book of World Records folks.  It should be, because they checked every single square millimeter of that car.  The extremely lucky driver?  None other than Anthony Liu, a Chinese Formula 1 driver.  Even better, the car did this astonishing feat with its top down!!!!  Where was this record set?  The Volkswagen Group’s famous Ehra-Lessien testing grounds in Germany, where a stunning photo of the record-breaking car was taken.  The car can hit a top speed of 254 mph with the top up, according to a senior Bugatti engineer.  With the top down, it is “highly recommended to not follow Mr. Liu’s attempts, and keep the car at 233 mph.”  Whatever.  Mr. Liu obviously wanted to tell THIS engineer that he races cars WITHOUT a top ALL THE TIME, and he can drive it just as well!  The only two colors available right now for the Grand Sport Vitesse are a vivid black-and-orange color scheme that should tell the cops that they can’t even come close to catching this ace of spades!

zoomvroom Car Reviews, New car info, World News

Is the 2014 Ram Promaster a Good Bet for Those Who Need Space?

Well, that’s a loaded question.  If you have a business that delivers large parcels, or you are a contractor, you’ve got a couple of new options.  The 2014 Ram Promaster debuted at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show, and the 2015 Ford Transit did, as well.  Unfortunately, the Ford has been delayed until the 2015 model year.  This leaves Ford out of the game for a new offering until late next year.  If you want a van from the Triassic Period, go to your local Ford dealer and buy an Econoline van.  Mercedes-Benz is selling the Sprinter, as well as Freightliner (badge engineering!), and the Chevy Express/GMC Savanna are the dinosaur offerings.  The 2014 Ram Promaster is what I want to talk about, though.

Basically, the 2014 Ram Promaster is a rebadged Fiat Ducato.  The Fiat version has been around since 1981, and over 4.5 million copies have been sold everywhere BUT North America.  Go figure.  This gave Fiat time to refine and hone in their technique for the Ducato.  When Fiat bought the Chrysler Corporation in 2011, all of the Dodge Ram pickups became a separate brand – Ram.  Yes, I AM expecting somebody to make some sort of bad battering ram joke (pun intended!)!  Anyways, the 2014 Ram Promaster/Fiat Ducato is Americanized.  But, what sets it apart from its competitors is it’s front-wheel-drive architecture.  Yep, it’s front-wheel-drive.

Ram says that FWD carries many pros.  First of all, it offers best-in-class load height (21 inches), more interior space, and better fuel economy.

There are two very good engines available:  The now-familiar 3.6-liter Pentastar V6, making 280 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, and a brand-new 3.0-liter EcoDiesel diesel engine with four cylinders.  The diesel makes 174 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque.  The Pentastar V6 is mated to an Aisin six-speed automatic, while the diesel is mated to an automated six-speed manual.  Basically, there is an electro-hydraulic system that controls the clutch and gear actuation.  Ram says that the diesel/automated manual system fuel economy should range well into the mid-20s.  That is a good thing for those who need to haul, but don’t want to see $200 bills at the gas station.

The engineers of the Ram Promaster have made it pretty dang hard to damage.  It has standard electronic stability control (an industry 1st), you can get Chrysler’s optional ParkView backup camera and Parksense radar/sonar system to make it easier to navigate in parking lots, alleys, and other tight spaces.  Should the Promaster get it’s bumpers damaged, the bumpers are three pieces.  That allows for the damaged piece to be replaced, not the complete bumper itself.  That gust of air you just felt were all of the body shop technicians who work at Ram dealers giving a collective sigh.  Six airbags (three of which are curtain airbags) are standard.

According to Ram, the ride is smooth for a commercial van.  Most vans, however, have too much vertical travel with the suspension.  It’s normal if you feel it while driving the Ram Promaster.  The suspension is designed that way so that you can put huge loads into the cargo bay and still have a comfortable ride.  The Pentastar engine is a smooth powerplant, as evidenced by the other hard-working vehicles in the Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep/Ram lineup (think Dodge Grand Caravan, Dodge Durango, Chrysler 300), and it probably won’t be loud with a large load.  Say you and a friend are moving 1,500 pounds of file boxes, and you are driving the Ram Promaster.  That’s easy enough for any cargo van.  The Pentastar engine is a powerful engine that should easily take care of most getting-up-to-speed needs.

There should be no unwelcome issues with the front-wheel-drive architecture, because it is lower to the ground, and front-wheel-drive gives a smoother ride.  Ram/Fiat designed the Promaster to have a tight turning radius, so that you can easily snake into a parking spot or do a  u-turn (a legal one!).

Some people will probably complain about the classic Italian driving position.  This means that the steering wheel itself is very flat and far away from the driver.  Since Italians tend to be shorter with longer arms, the pedals are close to the driver.  I hope you are built like an Italian if you buy a Ram Promaster!  This will be made worse for you because the steering wheel doesn’t telescope, but instead moves a few degrees total.  Are you looking forward to having a steering wheel in your chest?  Chrysler’s Uconnect system is mounted in the center console (don’t ask why – I don’t know!), so it is not only small (5 inches), but far away.  It will NOT work for a driver who needs navigation to deliver materials.

The 2014 Ram Promaster should start coming to dealers near you soon, as the Saltillo, Mexico plant has started production, and Ram Promasters are now on their way to dealers.  It will be available in 14 different combinations at launch, including a chassis cab, a high-roof version, a long-wheelbase version, and other combinations.  I can’t wait to report more on the 2014 Ram Promaster.  It starts at a measly $29,630, so it is a bit cheaper than a base Mercedes-Benz Sprinter cargo van, and $400 more expensive than a Nissan NV 1500 S cargo van.

Winnebago debuted a Promaster-based motorhome at the SEMA show, and people showed a LOT of interest in it.  Not only is it lower than a Ford E-Series-based motorhome, but it is cheaper, as well.

For those of you looking into buying a new cargo van, the 2014 Ram Promaster is a good, safe bet.  It has a short hood, and that will aid many owners who park a lot in seeing where the front of their van is.  If you don’t know what I am talking about, go rent/lease/buy a Nissan NV and try to park it.  Then, try it in a Ram Promaster.  You’ll be surrprised at how easy it will be in the Ram Promaster!

You can learn more about the 2014 Ram Promaster at http://www.ramtrucks.com/en/2014/ram_promaster/.

zoomvroom Car Reviews

Jean Bugatti Is Honored With the New “Legend” Edition Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse!

Bugatti has come out with the second “Legend” Edition Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse, this time honoring the oldest son of Ettore Bugatti, the man who formed Bugatti.  The second Legend Edition Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse was unveiled on the eve of the car’s debut at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show.  The first in the series of six was revealed at the 2013 Concours d’Elegance.

All of the Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse Legend Editions will be produced in a run of 3 identical cars.  The latest car is the “Jean Bugatti Legend Edition,” which honors Jean Bugatti.  Which, as it’s name suggests, honors Ettore Bugatti’s oldest son, Jean Bugatti, who created the Type 57SC Atlantic.  Only four examples of the Type 57SC Atlantic were built between 1936 and 1938.  One is owned by Ralph Lauren, and the other was bought by a mystery owner in 2010.

Jean Bugatti was the eldest son of Ettore Bugatti, and took over the company at the young age of 27.  Unfortunately, he died in a tragic accident while testing the Le Mans-winning 57G Tank.  But, the car that he is most known for the Type 57SC Atlantic.  Of course, the Bugatti Veyron Legend Edition “Jean Bugatti” takes it’s inspiration from the Type 57SC Atlantic.  But, it’s not based off of just any ole’ 57SC Atlantic – it is based off of the La Voiture Noire 57SC Atlantic that served as Jean’s personal car until the time of his death.  It is now lost to history.

What makes the Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse Legend Edition so special is that the grille and the logos are made from real platinum, the exterior is flat black with clear-coated carbon fiber, black chrome wheels, and Jean Bugatti’s signature on just about everything (fuel filler, oil caps, seats, and even the floor mats!).  Inside the car, the already sumptuous interior has leather matching the beige and brown tones that the 57SC Atlantic La Voiture Noire had adorn many surfaces.  Also, the side silhouette of the Type 57SC Atlantic is hand-embroidered on the inward side of both doors.

No mechanical changes have been made, so the car is still capable of hitting 254 mph (though top speed is limited to “just” 233 mph in this special edition), and it will still hit 60 mph in 2.6 seconds – just a tad bit faster than a Nissan GT-R!

Prices start at 2.28 million Euros (about $3 million USD).  I advise you to start saving.

zoomvroom Car Reviews, New car info, Website Reccomendation, World News

Is the 2014 Cadillac CTS VSport a V-E Day for Caddy?

When Cadillac introduced the 2nd generation CTS back in 2008, it blew the wheels off of the competition.  It was just that good.  It remains that good to this day, but it also happened to snare Motor Trend’s 2008 Car of the Year award.  That’s some pretty prestigious territory.  Caddy didn’t rest on their laurels for long.  They took the V8 engine out of the Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1, detuned it to 556 horsepower and 551 lb-ft of torque, and shoved it into the CTS.  Thus, the CTS-V was born.  The CTS-V was good enough to win multiple comparisons against the BMW M5, Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG, and even the Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG.  All of those cars that were defeated have been significantly updated and/or redesigned since 2009, but the CTS-V remains a high-water mark for GM.  Cadillac even added a coupe and a station wagon version for both the CTS and the CTS-V in 2011, and all of the CTS iterations are true champions.  For us mere mortals that want better fuel economy than 12 or 13 mpg, then the 2014 Cadillac CTS VSport might be the ticket to success.

When Cadillac started designing the 3rd generation CTS for 2014, their goal was to make the car leaner and meaner.  What they meant by that was make its dimensions larger to better compete with the BMW 5 Series, Acura RLX, Mercedes Benz E Class, and the Jaguar XF.  They also had to make it lighter.  That’s when forged aluminum and high-strength steel come into hand.  The 2014 Cadillac CTS is reportedly lighter by up to 350 pounds in some versions.  But, I want to talk to you about the 2014 Cadillac CTS VSport, which is the car that is a step below the still-available CTS-V.

Cadillac has said in multiple press releases that they will use V6s whenever possible.  Not only are they able to cram more technology into the V6 engines, but the V6 design reduces weight.  But, won’t BMW and Mercedes-Benz have V8s in their 550i and E550.  Won’t Cadillac be bringing a butter knife to an RPG fight?  Not necessarily.  The 2014 Cadillac CTS VSport’s twin-turbo 3.6-liter V6 makes 420 horsepower, versus 400 horsepower (probably much more than that, according to dyno tests) for the Bimmer, and 402 for the Benz.  However, torque is down a bit, compared to the competing V8s.  The CTS VSport’s engine makes 430 lb-ft of torque, while the BMW makes an astonishing 450 horsepower, and the Benz makes 443 lb-ft.  But, the CTS has a better power-to-weight ratio, with 9.5 pounds per horsepower.  This will make up for any power deficit.  The BMW makes 10.9 pounds per horsepower, and the Benz makes 11.3.  Cadillac also has a new turbocharger intercooler plumbing, which pretty much eliminates any turbo lag.

Cadillac claims a 0-60 time of 4.4 seconds out of the 2014 Cadillac CTS VSport, but Motor Trend got 4.7 seconds.  It’s not a bad thing for an auto magazine to be a bit off the time, because the engineering team has been developing the CTS VSport for a couple of years now.  Cadillac also got a quite respectable quarter mile time of 13.1 seconds at 108.4 miles an hour.  That won’t catch a Corvette, but it will embarrass a Ford Mustang with the V6.  The 0-60 time and quarter mile time are enough to send the Germans hustling to the drawing board.  The standard Brembo brakes will out stop a BMW 550i or a Mercedes-Benz E550, with a short stopping distance of 103 feet.  That’s good enough to out stop a 2014 Corvette Z51.  Put the CTS VSport up against an Infiniti Q70 (previously the M37/M56), and it’s pretty much even.  Motor Trend tested a M56 last year and got 4.8 seconds to 60, and it then went on to blast through the 1/4 mile at 13.1 seconds at 108.1 mph.  Remember, these are all in controlled, nearly-ideal settings.  DO NOT attempt this at a stoplight!  I don’t want you to reenact the rental-car bashing scene from Days of Thunder!  As awesome as that was, Ford and Chevy paid a lot of money for those cars to be thrashed like that.  You’ll be paying that amount of money for repairs!

Also new is a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission also found in the Rolls-Royce Ghost, Range Rover Sport, and many other cars.  It senses corners up ahead, using the sonar sensors in the front bumper, as well as the adaptive cruise control radar box.  It then downshifts or upshifts at the appropriate moment, and supposedly does its job quite well.  GM added a function to the transmission called “Performance Algorithm Shift,” which basically renders the steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles useless.

There are a couple of different trim levels offered for the CTS VSport.  There is the CTS VSport, which is a perfectly luxurious car in its own right, starting off at $59,995, and that mode has a large number of options.  The VSport Premium trim tacks $10,000 to the price, bringing the price up to $69,995.  When I “built” a car on Cadillac’s website, the 2014 CTS VSport Premium that I optioned came in at $71,745.  Granted, that’s when it’s got the optional high-performance brake pads and sport seating package.  If you decide to buy a VSport, I recommend getting it with the following options:  Analogue gauges (you’ll have a display that you can personalize in between the speedometer and tachometer), no sunroof, and a quite presentable interior.  You’ll also want to get the optional high-performance brake pads (Brembos).  All of that will ding you a grand total of $60,005.  Not bad, considering you can smoke a BMW 550i for $5,675.

You can check out the 2014 Cadillac CTS webpage at http://www.cadillac.com/cts-sport-sedan.html.  Enjoy noodling around on the website and building your own CTS VSport.  Build one to your desired specifications, and then tell me how much it cost!  I’ve also attached a couple of pictures, from the requests of a couple of readers, so enjoy them.

zoomvroom Car Reviews, New car info

The First “Legend” Edition Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse Debuted At the Concours d’Elegance!

While showing off their multitude of Veyron’s at the 2013 Concours d’Elegannce, Bugatti unveiled a Legend Edition Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse.  It is the first of six, for the six men who changed Bugatti’s history throughout the years.  The series is called Les Legendes de Bugatti (Bugatti Legends), and the first one debuted at the 2013 Concours d’Elegance.  Each Legend Edition Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse will be built in a run of three units.

The first Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse Legend is the Jean-Pierre Wimille, honoring the legendary French racing driver from the 1930’s who helped Bugatti achieve their two 24 Hours of Le Mans wins in:  1937, in a Bugatti 57G Tank, co-piloted by Robert Benoist, and 1939, in a Bugatti 57C Tank, co-piloted by Pierre Veyron.

The car was unveiled next to the original 57G Tank at the Concours d’Elegance.  Designers of the Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse Legend drew their inspiration from.  The inspiration can be seen in the bodywork and interior of the car.

The exterior is made completely out of carbon fiber, and pays tribute to the 57G Tank with it’s color scheme:  Light Blue contrasting nicely with royal blue.  The blue color scheme was common in French race cars of the time, and is starting to see a resurgence in French rally cars.  The blue/blue theme is continued on the inside (like most Veyron special editions.  The headliner, footwells, and seat inserts are all blue leather.  The blue is called Blue Wimille, while the darker shade of blue is called Lake Blue.  Lake Blue is used for the seat bolsters, dash panel, center console, and doors.  In a special homage to Wimille, the designers used a decorative stitching patter that uses the French national colors (red, white, blue).

No mechanical changes have been made to the car, so it is still capable of making 1,184 horsepower and 1,106 lb-ft of torque from it’s 8.0-liter W16 engine.  And, yes, it still can go 254 mph.  With the top down.

In comparison, the 57G Tank is powered by a 3.3-liter straight-eight engine delivering somewhere around 200 horsepower.  Because of it’s specially designed body, it could reach top speed much faster than any competitors.  Enjoy the spectacular pictures.

Jean-Pierre Wimille is on the right, Pierre Veyron is on the left, and Jean Bugatti is in the middle.  The car they are leaning against is the 57G Tank.

zoomvroom Car Reviews, New car info, World News

The Most Extreme Lamborghini Gallardo Yet!

Lamborghini is known for coming out with a never-ending stream of special edition Gallardo’s and Aventadors, but the newest Gallardo special edition is absolutely NOTHING to sneeze at.  The 2013 Lamborghini Gallardo Lp 570-4 Squadra Corse just debuted at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show.  It is the street-going version of the Gallardo Super Trofeo racecar, and it promises to be the most extreme road-going stock Gallardo ever built.  You don’t doubt Lamborghini when they say something like that.  Period.  End of sentence.

The mid-mounted 5.2-liter V10 still makes the same 562 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque as the rest of the Gallardo lineup (including the Super Trofeo Gallardo), the comprehensive use of carbon fiber and high-strength aluminum has allowed Lamborghini to cut the weight down to under 3,000 pounds.  The engine puts the power down to all four wheels via a six-speed single-clutch transmission, with which Lamborghini expects the Gallardo Squadra Corse to scoot to 60 mph in 3.4 seconds.  Remember that Lamborghini is always very conservative with their acceleration estimates.  100 mph should come up in a mere 10.4 seconds, while the top speed is 199 mph.  Massive carbon-ceramic brakes get the Gallardo Squadra Corse back down to sane speeds in seconds.

Not only is the Lamborghini Gallardo Squadra Corse inspired by the Gallardo Super Trofeo, but it shares a large amount of parts with the Super Trofeo Gallardo, including:  the massive carbon composite rear wing from the Super Trofeo Gallardo, and the lightweight hood from the Gallardo Super Trofeo.  According to Lamborghini, the rear wing produces up to three times the downforce that the regular Gallardo spoiler produces, and the hood has a quick release system to allow it to be easily and quickly removed.

Other than the menacing rear wing, the Gallardo Squadra Corse distinguishes itself from the rest of the Gallardo lineup by it’s Italian flag-inspired red, white, and green stripe that is just ahead of the functional scoops, a black-painted hood, a black diffuser, black air intakes, and black wheels.  The color choices for the Gallardo Squadra Corse are:  Yellow, White, Gray, and Red.  The brake calipers have color choices as well:  Red, black, and Yellow.

Inside the 2013 Lamborghini Gallardo Squadra Corse, there is extensive use of carbon fiber (door panels, racing seats, center console, and handbrake frame).  Alcantara makes itself shown on the seats, and the underside of the dashboard.

lamborghini-gallardo-squadra-corse

lamborghini-gallardo-lp-570-4-squadra-corse-rear

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zoomvroom Car Culture, Car Reviews

The Top Twenty-Five Future Collector Cars!

I have always wanted to do a blog post on this.  I know that it’s kind of generic, but everybody has their own impressions of what cars should be future collectibles, right?  Enjoy my list, and tell me what you would like to see as a future collectible in the comments section.

  1. 2013 SRT Viper/GTS/TA:  The SRT Viper is one of the best American cars on the road.  It’s loud, brash, fast, and it will scare the living daylights out of you and make you a better driver at the same time.  It’s a rare combination that won’t live long.  It’s got an iconic design that will still look downright diabolical 50 years down the road.  It’s also got one of the biggest engines in the world, with a massive 8.4-liter V10 wedged under the hood.  It pumps out 640 horsepower and 600 lb-ft of torque.  For the Viper, there is no replacement for displacement.
  2. 2013 Chevrolet Corvette 427 Corvette Convertible:  Essentially a 2013 Corvette ZO6 with a convertible top, the Corvette 427 Convertible is the last iteration of the C6 Corvette.  It’s also one of the best Corvettes.  Ever.
  3. Audi RS5:  The 2013 Audi RS5 is a homage to the wailing, stylish DTM racers of the late 20th century.  It’s powered by a naturally aspirated 4.2-liter V8 that pumps out 414 horsepower at 8000 RPM.  As Motor Trend described it, it’s an R8 with a slightly detuned engine for those who need more space.  It’s a beautiful car, too, with big, blacked-out wheels, fender flares, and a grille that pays tribute to the Auto Union racers of the 1930’s.
  4. 2014 Porsche Cayman/S:  The second-generation Porsche Cayman is sure to win awards, praises, and thumbs-ups from everybody.  It is the car that the 911 should be.  The engine is in the right place, it behaves like a race car, it can go just as fast around the hallowed Nurburgring as the 2011 Porsche 911 GT3 RS.  What could possibly be better?  Nothing, as far as I’m concerned!
  5. 2013 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Convertible:  The Chevrolet Camaro is a good car.  The ZL1 takes it to a completely different level.  It’s fast, loud, fun to drive, and it looks spectacular.  The ZL1 convertible takes away the bunker-like visibility of the coupe, and lets the NASCAR-like engine note pierce the cabin.  It also happens to be Chevrolet’s most powerful production convertible ever.  It will most likely be bought by hardcore enthusiasts and it will command a premium over the ZL1 coupe when it shows up at auctions in about 10 years.
  6. 2013 Tesla Model S:  Not only did it win Motor Trend’s 2013 Car of the Year award, but it recently set electric car records at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca.  It gets to 60 mph in five seconds, so this car is a sleeper in a efficient, silent way.  I want one.
  7. Mazda Miata:  The Mazda Miata helped turn around the definition of sports cars when it was introduced in 1990.  It took the idea of classic British roadsters, mixed it with reliability, a cheap buying price, and charm.  Hundreds of thousands have been sold since then.  It also happens to be the most popular car for racing.
  8. 2009 Cadillac CTS-V:  Ten years ago, you would have been laughed off of the face of the planet for telling people that Cadillac would build a high-performance car.  There might never be another.  If you want a true unicorn of a car, get the 2011 Cadillac CTS-V Sport Wagon.  It’s got 556 horsepower, thanks to a detuned Corvette LS9 engine, mated to either a six-speed manual or a six-speed slushbox.  It tops out at 193 mph, yet it is a refined street car, thanks to a special Magnetic Ride Control suspension system that was developed by Delphi Suspension Systems.
  9. 2007 Dodge Magnum SRT8:  The merger of Chrysler Motor Co. and Daimler Motor Co. was short-lived and unsuccessful.  However, some interesting cars were built in that time.  Take the Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger, Dodge Challenger, Dodge Magnum, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.  They’re all kissing cousins.  The Dodge Magnum is the coolest and baddest bruiser on the block.  The Magnum SRT8 is rare and awesome.  It’s got clear hot rod DNA, yet it wasn’t a sales hit.  Just 4,219 were sold in two years.
  10. 2008 Honda S2000 CR:  Honda redefined supercar in the early 1990’s with the mid-engine, all-aluminum NSX.  The chief engineer’s retirement present to the world was the 2008 Honda S2000 CR.  The S2000 was already a great track car, but the S2000 CR took it to a whole new level.  It made 260 horsepower at a wailing 8300 RPM, and sent those shrieking ponies to the ground via one of the world’s best six-speed manuals ever made.
  11. Porsche Carrera GT:  It’s a rare time when Porsche’s engineers make a supercar.  The Porsche Carrera GT is an amazing car that showcases Le Mans technology, high speeds, prices, and looks.  The thing’s a bloody unicorn.  Using a chassis and bodywork from a failed Le Mans prototype that never made it to racing, a F1-style V10 that made 612 horsepower at 8000 rpm.  It put it’s power down with a six-speed manual with a carbon composite clutch.
  12. Ford Mustang Boss 302 Laguna Seca:  Ford summed it up best, with their description of the Mustang Boss 302 Laguna Seca.  “It’s a race car with a license plate.”  It was an affordable one at that, costing buyers $48,100 in 2011 and 2012.  Mustang lovers and just about anybody who appreciates cars will want one in their collection, whether it’s now or 50 years from now.
  13. BMW M3:  The E92 BMW M3 is the last car of a dying breed.  It’s 4.0-liter flat-plane V8 makes 414 horsepower at a rev-happy 8400 RPM.  Because the future of BMW’s M cars lie with turbocharging, the E92 M3 is sure to become a collectible with many enthusiasts.
  14. Ford Mustang Shelby GT500:  The 2012 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 is the first Mustang with a top speed of 200 mph.  Randy Pobst and Motor Trend reached 197 mph, but I have no doubt that the GT500 would reach 200 or more with enough road.  It’s also the last car to have direct influence by Carroll Shelby himself.
  15. HUMMER H2:  Even though it was just a butched-up Chevrolet Tahoe, the HUMMER H2 represented the peak of an era when off-roading was at it;s peak.  A massive tax loophole at the time made it popular with everybody from hip-hop stars, lawyers, contractors, and just about anybody with their own business.
  16. 2004 Toyota Prius:  The second-generation Toyota Prius redefined the way the world thought about hybrids.  It may be an egg-shaped nerdmobile, but it sure as heck is a benchmark for many automakers today.   It’s an engineering marvel, and sales of the Prius peaked in 2008, when the economy crashed and fuel prices went through the roof.
  17. Toyota GT86/Subaru BRZ/Scion FR-S:  The sports car market as we knew it from around 2000-2012 was focused on big, powerful engines that made cars go fast and handle badly.  The joint venture between Toyota/Scion and Subaru turned out to be a success.  The cars weigh under 3000 pounds, they have rev-happy engines mated to crisp transmissions that redefine the definition of affordable sports car.  They can zip around a track just as fast as a Porsche 911 Turbo.  Look for them to command high premiums in 30 years or so at auctions.
  18. 1987 Buick GNX:  One of the most desirable cars of all time is the Buick GNX.  Based off of the already diabolical Buick Regal Grand National coupe with one sweet engine.  A big turbo and a new intercooler bumped horsepower to 276 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque.
  19. Ford F150 SVT Raptor:  At a time when automakers were just starting to redesign trucks because of increasing demand, Ford came out with a true unicorn of a car.  It now comes with a big, rip-snorting 6.2-liter V8, but it was plenty fast before that.  It is a Baja-racing style truck that performs well enough on the pavement to outperform those guys in their hopped-up fartcan Honda Civic’s, yet will leave a HUMVEE eating it’s dust anywhere.  It’s a rare combination of engineering, pure fun, and years of experience that make this truck so collectible.
  20. 2002 Ford F150 SVT Lightning:  This was the time of massive horsepower, fast trucks.  Ford’s F150 SVT Lightning deserves a spot on this list.  It came with a supercharged version of the 5.4-liter V8 found in the F250 that put out an impressive 450 lb-ft of torque and an equally impressive 380 horsepower.  The tires helped keep the truck going in a straight line – mostly.  It’s also a menacing track vehicle.
  21. McLaren MP4-12C:  The McLaren MP4-12C won’t outdo the legendary McLaren F1 of the 1990s.  However, it is called one of the best-handling cars of all time.  It’s got looks, speed, handling, power, and technology that would make any car proud.
  22. 2012 Volkswagen Passat TDI:  Volkswagen realized that their bad-selling 2006-2011 Passat was a loser.  They redesigned the Passat, and made it into an American car.  It’s been softened, enlarged, and Americanized.  It’s still a great car.  It won Motor Trend’s 2012 Car of the Year award, so it should be destined to be a future collectible.  Keep your eyes peeled.
  23. 2012 Fiat 500/Abarth:  You’ve seen the raving reviews.  After a hiatus of well over 30 years, Fiat has made a successful return to the States.  Their tiny Fiat 500 has proved popular, thanks to the plethora of options, color choices, and price range.  It appeals to many.  For those who don’t want something lacking in power, get the Abarth model.  Yeah, the one with the scorpion ads.
  24. Audi R8:  While it “only” shares a name, some design cues, and some technology from one of the winningest Le Mans prototypes, the beautifully styled Audi R8 is a car that pleases.  It shares a V10 engine with the Lamborghini Gallardo, so you know that it will certainly play the part of a super car.  It has the styling, handling, power, and speed to become a classic for many years to come.  I want one.  Make that need one!
  25. 2011 Ford Mustang GT:  After 13 years of having modular V8’s in the iconic Mustang pony car, Ford decided it was time to bring back the iconic 5.0-liter V8 to the Mustang.  While the old 5.0 used to displace 4942 cubic inches, or 4.9215 liters, the new 5.0 displaces 4951 cubic inches, or 5.016 liters.  It’s got a sound at full throttle that sounds like a NASCAR engine from the 1960s, yet a docile growl at idle.  This pony begs to be flogged.  It’s also got performance to help it keep up with BMW M3’s at the track, thanks to an optional Track Package or a Brembo Brake package.  Either package is well worth the money.  Plus, the interior is as nice as a Mercedes-Benz C-Class.  You can’t ask for much more out of a Ford.  It’s a job well done.

That’s all for today!  Remember, add your thoughts about the cars and/or put additions in the comments section.