Thursday, December 31, 2009

The Jeep Grand Cherokee


The greatest thing about my Jeep Cherokee is that I often feel like it transports me, not just physically but emotionally, to someplace I would rather be. Commuting to and from work in a major metropolitan area, I'm often stuck in traffic - in fact much more than I'd rather be. Luckily, with this vehicle I have a better view of the road, other cars and trucks than if I had been driving a sedan.

The Jeep Cherokee seems to be really popular around here too, but maybe that is just because I drive a one, so those are the ones that I pay the most attention to. Its really interesting to me that you see so many different types of people driving around in Jeeps - from businessmen in expensive suits and women in beautiful dresses and high heels to long-haired Baby Boomers looking to regain their youth in a fun vehicle that reminds them of their past.

If you like a bigger vehicle that still gets pretty good gas mileage, then you'll love a Jeep Cherokee too! Really, compared to many of the larger trucks on the road, the Jeep is not that bad. The Jeep Cherokee also sits relatively high, so that you can easily see over the other traffic and not feel like you will be run over because the other drivers can't see where you're at. I have to admit though, the overall ride of the Jeep Cherokee isn't the luxury smooth ride of some other vehicles on the road, but it is pretty nice and all its positive features far outweigh any negatives that it might have as far as I'm concerned.

Whenever I'm in my beautiful blue Jeep Cherokee, I often think about being somewhere in northern California, driving along Pacific Highway 1 and watching the waves crash up against the rocks over and over. Usually when I'm out and about, I have my window down and the radio blasting, enjoying the ride to wherever I'm going. If I'm not fantasizing about driving along the ocean, then I'm very content with thinking about driving through a vineyard with a couple of bottles of great wine in the truck along with a picnic basket full of great food - cheeses, vegetables, fruit and maybe even smoked salmon, and a very special friend.

Somehow, driving my Jeep Cherokee everyday helps me pretend to be on vacation even when I'm not. Overall it's a great ride - comfortable, roomy and with excellent pick-up whenever I need to really move along and with the ability to get me to where ever I need to be, be it at the boardroom or at the boardwalk. What more can I say - I simply love my Jeep Cherokee!

About the Author

Looking for cheap jeeps, used jeeps or jeep parts. Check us out for more jeep info.


Wednesday, December 30, 2009

5 Cool New Cars For 2010


What are some of the cool new cars for 2010? Here's a description of the 5 coolest cars to come out in the upcoming year.

Any list of cool new cars would have to start would have to start with the 2010 Ferrari California. This car is a little different from the other high performance vehicles in the Ferrari stable. The common man will find this car much more approachable. But that doesn't detract from any of the Ferrari features. It still has plenty of speed and looks great.

On the other hand, if you are wanting a family oriented car, take a look at the Audi A-5 Sportback. It looks a like like the BMW 5 series. It has a 180 horsepower 2.0 liter turbocharged 1-4 engine. Also, it has a seven speed dual clutch transmission.

The 2010 Kia Forte is the third car on our list. This model replaces the Spectra in the competitive compact sedan market. The Forte is more dynamic looking than the Spectra featuring a distinct wedge shaped profile and a wider stance. One feature worth mentioning is the Forte has a huge trunk - 14.7 cubic feet which can be further exteded by lowering the split-folding rear seats. You can choose between cloth or leather seats in the nicely appointed cabin. You will also find a user friendly center stack, steering wheel mounted controls, standard Sirius radio, and Bluetooth.

The 2010 Suburu Outback is a more sports utility vehicle than wagon than ever before. That's because the Suburu designers were given free range to design the vehicle which has more changes than any update in the Outback's 15 year history. As a result, it has a nice looking unique body shell.

Finally, no list of 2010 cool new cars would be complete without a hybrid. The third generation Toyota Prius starts at $22,000 and gets 51 miles per gallon. Toyota is billing it as "harmony between man, nature, and machine." And, the styling is awesome!

That is your list of the 2010 cool new cars.

If you are looking for cool new cars, I suggest you head on over to Edmunds.com for some great shopping.

A Cheap New Car is Possible?


After your house, your car is probably your most expensive asset. More than that, it is a status symbol. It tells the world what your personality is, and quite frankly, how much car you can afford. This article will examine how to find a cheap new car.

The first way to find a cheap new car is to look for rebates and cash back offers. Because the economy is in a slump and is hitting the car industry harder than most others, many manufacturers are offering incentives to buy their cars. Some of the best deals right now on new cars include a $13,000 cash back on the Mercedes-Benz CLK Class, $5000 off a Nissan Titan, and $7500 off the BMW Z4.

Another way to buy a cheap new car is to look for a model from last year. As dealers roll out the 2010 line, they still have 2009 models in the showroom. They are extra motivated to move these and will often offer great deals on them.

If you are looking for the cheapest possible monthly payments on a new car, consider the lease option. Leased cars can be 30 to 60 percent less expensive than buying the same car with a loan which can cut your monthly payments in half. This lets you drive a brand new car for less money than you might spend on a late model used car deal. These are great deals if you can live with the lease terms. A typical lease is for 6 months, 30,000 miles, and sometimes a down payment. Also, you will have to provide collision insurance on the vehicle and not just liability insurance.

Care to drive for free? If you live in a big city or near a college campus, this might be an option. In exchange for turning your car into a full fledged mobile billboard, you can often get a free ride (pun intended.) There are two models for doing this. The first is to get a car from an advertising company straight out. The second is to get a stipend for driving your late model car around when it is wrapped in a company's advertisement.

Car incentives, models from last year, leasing, and free cars are all ways to get a cheap new car.

If you are looking for a cheap new car, I suggest you head on over to Edmunds.com for some great shopping.

Tuesday, December 29, 2009

The Alfa Romeo Giulietta

For the Alfa Romeo fans, the new Giulietta is rumored to be emerging at the 2010 Geneva Auto Show in March, with sales beginning in the spring to major markets. Let's take a sneak peek at this exotic car.

Boasting an entirely new platform, the 2010 Giulietta has been revamped to appeal to even the most demanding of customers-so let's examine the specs.

It is reported that road grip, agility and safety are areas the new Alfa Romeo Giulietta has improved. Alfa DNA is the system developed to customize the behavior of the Giulietta according to various driving styles and road conditions, and has the capacity to adapt to the needs of individual drivers, creating a customized and comfortable luxury driving experience. Three new modes are available for the DNA system on the 2010 Giulietta-Dynamic, Normal and All Weather. These serve to modify the operating parameters of the engine, steering system, Q2 electronics differential and fine-tune the stability control system. But what lies beneath the hood is what gets us.

The Alfa Romeo Giulietta features four turbo engines, all Euro 5 compliant and fitted with standard Start&Stop system to reduce emissions and consumption levels. The engines include two gasoline engines (1.4 TB-120 horsepower MultiAir-170 horsepower), and two diesel engines (1.6 JTDM-105 horsepower and 2.0 JTDM-170 horsepower). To finish off, a 1750 TBi version produces 235 horsepower with an exclusive Quadrifoglio Verde configuration. Nice.

As far as aesthetics, the front of the exotic car seems to be a new take on the classic Alfa Romeo grille, suspended between two intakes. The sleek profile contours into an agile and impressive build, including side ribbing, very easy on the eyes. This could be an exciting addition to any fleet of exotic rental cars, and we like what is under the hood!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ryan_Safady

The Peugeot BB1

The mobility of big cities is more and more confusing, such as traffic, pollution, and the cars are getting difficult to find a place for parking. This forces the engineers and designers offer a concept car that becomes smaller (practical and versatile) as well as environmentally friendly. If necessary, the concept combines the elements of city car and scooter.

Peugeot presents a new city car concept called Peugeot BB1. It looks weird, especially in the forefront. However, that's the concept that offered in order to this car can be made with the dimension of long 2.5 m, wide 1.6 meters and height 1.5 m; as well as able to carry four adult passengers.

With the dimension, Peugeot BB1 is a nimble car. Peugeot claims, that the diameter of this car is only 3.5 meters. It is easy to be parked and does not require a lot of space. Another unique feature of this car is the both side doors are open backwards.

Flexible interior

Although the appearance of this car looks small, but the interior is flexible to accommodate person and goods. The volume of space for goods is only 160 liters when BB1 filled with four people. However, the trunk spaces become 855 liters if BB1 is only filled by one adult person.

The driving position concept of Peugeot BB1 was inspired by a scooter. With the upright position, the pedals do not need the space or the floor like a conventional car.

Moreover, the passengers positioned tandem behind the driver. So did the other side, the front and rear passengers.

Technology

The technology that used for all the headlights are LED. There is also a camera to see the situation and condition of the back.

Other interesting features are various interactive technology applications, such as color screen with car audio systems that ideal for the functions of smart-phone, telephone, navigation, internet access, radio, and MP3. To operate this feature is only with plugging in the USB cable to the audio unit or using 12 volt socket if it is necessary.

There is also a clock that makes the atmosphere in the interior looks so colorful. The interior color changed in every period, and time is running accordant to the rhythm of light. This feature is designed to eliminate boredom and gives passion of life. There are also animated graphics for the speedometer.

Various bodies

The energy source of this car is an electric motor that installed directly on the two rear wheels. This is the result of cooperation between Peugeot with Michelin. With this technology, the interior space can be maximized.

The energy source was inspired by the quad bike (ATV). The maximum power can reach 15 kW (20 HP) or 7.5 kW for each motor. The result is to sprint from 0 to 30 kpj, Peugeot BB1 takes 2.8 seconds. While for accelerating 30-60 km / hour, Peugeot BB1 only takes 4 seconds.

Lithium-ion batteries can be used to go through 120 km if the battery is full. The battery consists of two unit packages that placed under the back seat right and left. With this way, the weight is centralized in the middle and helps the stability of Peugeot BB1 when braking.

Chassis used is the pipe model (tubular) which is the result of Peugeot Motorcycle design. Then, the use of an electric power steering, double wishbone suspension, and a series of damping friction makes the vehicle stable on the road and in accordance with the performance.

The body of Peugeot BB1 made from the carbon structure which is very light that can protect all the passenger space. Remarkably, the body shape can be changed in accordance with the desire of the owner.

About the Author

Hi, I am Derry Dharmawan from Indonesia. To get a quality car, you do not have to pay a lot because there are lots of cheap used cars available. There are tons of articles provide information about Peugeot BB1, but I hope my article is useful for everyone.


Monday, December 28, 2009

Sports Car For Under $3000?


Sports cars care luxury cars for average people. The most affordable ones can cost as high as $20,000. And that is just a rough estimation. If you want more power and more performance to your car, the price will surely soar.

But that does not mean that you will have to say goodbye to your dream of having this car. There are a lot of ways to acquire a decent sports car without busting the bank. Let me tell you a way on how you can buy your sports car for only under $3000.

Step 1: If you have a penchant for the vintage car models, you can look online. A couple of British vintage sports vehicles are sold and most of them are in mint condition. You can refurbish as you wish. Buying a second hand car is ideal as you can work on it little by little. Change the paint, or change the motor to help it catch up with recent modernizations.

Step 2: Scour automobile magazines for good finds. Look at the page of the magazine where they list a number of sports car sold for under $3000. You can find the most affordable cars Mazda and Nissan costing less than that.

Step 3: You will be surprised of the number of junkyards that have decent sports automobiles. You can also ask about their services on refurbishing old cars. Most of the time, it should not cost you a lot. You can also ask the opinion of an expert on how much the refurbishing of the car you are eyeing at will cost. They can give you a rough estimation.

Step 4: Another website you can look for is Craigslist. Just key in the amount you want. This is like an online junk shop. You can easily find what you are looking for. Plus, you can get it directly from the previous owner. Ask questions about is current condition and what repairs are necessary. Ebay is also a nice site for scouring previously own automobiles.

Step 5: Widen your car network. If you are really enthusiastic about cars and everything that has got to do with that, you can join clubs and go to showrooms. Chances are, you can meet a lot of people who knows a thing or two about refurbishing cars and where you can buy cheap but decent ones. They might even have a few cars they want to sell and you can get one for a cheaper price.

For more tips and reviews on new sports cars, please visit http://www.newsportscars.org now

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alan_Cassidy

The 2010 Acura MDX


In many drivers' minds, Acura service has always been top notch. From their reputable standing of well-made construction, safety-conscious features and technological advancements, Acura is a serious competitor in the car industry. Consumers are becoming more technologically savvy. They are embracing the notion of Bluetooth, mp3 players, satellite radio etc. and these conveniences are now becoming requirements in newer vehicles. When consumers are looking to buy Acura vehicles, technological features are high on their list. Acura has created a 2010 line up that excels customer satisfaction and comfort. The Acura 2010 MDX is a proven testament of how technology enhances the experience of driving, no matter where you're going.

Buy Acura vehicles like the Acura MDX The Acura MDX is an SUV that offers superior handling, driver technology and race-inspired suspension. The Acura MDX features a 6-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift® and Intelligent Shift Control. These two features use electronic sensors which control gear shifting and engine reaction depending on road conditions. It continuously monitors how much power to need for optimal driving. With these features plus the Grade Logic Control system that's also included, you'll never have to be afraid of driving on less than ideal roads or going up or down some of the steepest hills.

Acura service just wouldn't be the same without technology in the mix. Now you can communicate without even moving a finger. The Acura MDX is equipped with HandsFreeLink telephone service through Bluetooth which allows you to make and receive calls without having to manually pick up a phone. Through voice activation you can keep in touch with the people you need to, without losing focus on the road. The Acura MDX audio system operates in English or French and has the capability of integrating up to six different phones. The Acura MDX provides an overall smooth ride. With its 4-wheel independent front and rear suspension, you'll feel connected to the road every time you turn a corner, take a bend or explore the open road.

Test drive a 2010 Acura MDX today and see what Acura service means to drivers. The Acura MDX knows every road you drive on and is equipped with the capabilities to handle them with care. Whether you're driving on tight city roads or discovering unchartered territory, the Acura MDX is an SUV that's truly street smart.

About the Author

Tod Martin is an contributed author to this website, writing articles on acura and acura tsx. He has codified lots of articles on acura cars, acura csx, acura integra and acura service. For more info visit the website.


Saturday, December 26, 2009

The Lexus LS 600h


The Lexus LS 600h is the best and innovative model produced by Lexus, luxury division of Toyota. Sedan 4th generation by Sedan has produced rear-wheel drive with v8 engines. Initially, LS 400 was introduced in the market in 1989. After the first model introduction, redesigned model, with a lot many changes in the designs, were introduced in 1995.

LS L30 was introduced in 2001, later; LS 460 and LS 460 L series were introduced in 2006. LS430 of Toyota was marketed in Japan only. After the launch of Marque by Lexus in 2006, in 2007 Lexus introduced 4th generation LS 460 with eight-speed automatic transmission and automatic parking. In 2007, the first Lexus Hybrid model was introduced as LS 600h.

LS 600h is the most advanced luxury hybrid in the market, with adaptive safety technology, low emissions and stunning acceleration, featuring 5.0-liter, 32-valve, V-8 with VVT-iE and a high-output electric-drive motor, bringing the output to a 438 horsepower, along with improved fuel consumption mph in the city and 22 mph on the highway.

There are many safety features in LS 600h; it has a four-channel anti-lock braking system with high friction brake pads that provide an utmost stopping power. Dual-stage front and seat-mounted side airbags, dual front knee airbags, rear seat-mounted side airbags and rear-seat side curtain airbags create safety from an accident or clash. Front lighting system is built with the advanced LED headlamps. The Advanced Parking Guidance System assists the vehicle for safe parking.

LS 600h is distinguished by the new four bar grille; front bumper is designed with air intakes and fog lamps. Lower bumper is designed with vertical fins to control the air-flow from beneath the car. A variety of exterior colours are introduced with Mesa Red, Vanilla Mist, Richmond Green, Atlantic Blue and Crystal Sapphire. The paint has the self-restoring coat treatment that helps to maintain a superb finishing over the lifetime of the vehicle.

The driving seat can be adjusted in 16 different ways with the touch of a button. The other front seat can be adjusted in 12 different ways with the touch of a button, and the front seats can be both heated and cooled. There is a system that shows the pressure of tyres and bluetooth connectivity.

The LS 600h has a navigation system that is supported by a 40 GB hard disk drive, which can record letters from passengers or play MP3 songs. Its stereo system is manufactured by Mark Levinson, which includes 19 speakers and a CD/DVD player. It provides sound library function; it can store and transfer music flies up to 10 GB, which is equal to 2000 music tracks.

Lexus LS 600h is featuring automatic high beam system. There is a camera censor in the rear view mirror, which is quite helpful in detecting the oncoming traffic, street lamp and traffic moving ahead. It includes automatic light beam system, which becomes high and low automatically, according to the driving situation. With all the above mentioned features, Lexus LS 600h has become very popular among all hybrid models.

About the Author

The Lexus LS 600h hybrid car is available for a free test drive; visit the Lexus website to book online.

Features Of Lexus IS 250c


The introduction of Lexus IS 250c has taken the world by storm. Touted by Lexus, as one of a kind hybrid sports car, this model is sure to take everyone by surprise. Lexus IS 250c has been introduced in the market to compete with its rival firms, but it certainly has an edge above them all. To get to know this car inside out, better read on.

Lexus IS 250c is a savvy-convertible model that allows greater expression. The outlook of the car has undergone rigorous designing to give it a sleeker front, and rear. The result is a car with a unique design.

Lexus IS 250c is has an impressive interior as well as the exterior. The seats are low, and ensure greater accommodation space for the passenger. The safety of the driver and the passengers is probably the basic idea behind this new design.

Another great feature of Lexus IS 250c is its noise reduction. You can get the car to purr to life with just a slight touch, and it is ready to go. This model is also recognised for its great satellite navigation system that has undergone serious work to make it work faster, and better.

What would a good sports car be without heavenly multimedia and sound system? Inclusive of the interior is the amazing Mark Levinson speaker system that gives you great sound even when the rooftop of the car is removed. For the young adults, the inclusion of a CD and DVD player is a great attraction. You can now use Lexus IS 250c to serve as a primary amplified sound system.

Some added features include dual zone climate-control tab, auto windscreen wipers, and auto headlights. Security wise, this model is a great introduction for those who are speed enthusiasts. It is designed in a manner to reduce the collision impact, and includes four safety airbags. The Electronic Stability Control (ESC) feature has also been introduced in this model.

Now moving on to the test drive part, Lexus IS 250c is a treat for drivers. It boasts an incredible speed of 210 kilometres per hour, and only consumes about 11.1 litres of petrol for every 100 kilometres. Supporting a 2500cc V6 engine, it has a fuel tank capacity of 65 litres. The car as a whole, weighs around 1730 kilograms.

The Lexus IS 250c is known to give a thrilling driving experience. Anyone who tries this model manufactured by the Lexus flagship is sure to come out awed and amazed. With this advent of technology, no high-tech feature has been left out during the designing, and production of this car. All the above-mentioned features are a step ahead of what regular sports cars offer. While taking into account the numerous safety options that this model offers along with the great interior and exterior aspects, as well as the amazing multimedia options, one could say this is definitely a car to die for.

About the Author

For more information about the Lexus IS 250c range, visit the Lexus website.


Friday, December 25, 2009

Hummer Fuel Door For a Customized Look


Hummers are all about the bling or more specifically, the biggest and most rugged vehicle on the road. Looking at the original military version, one would never have predicted this development. But, once GM decided to start putting shiny paint on them, it became logical to chrome out all of the accessory bits. Lately, the fuel door has become one of the favorite targets for chrome.

Chrome doors can be bought for almost all late-model pickups and SUVs. The Hummer fuel door comes in chrome from the factory. It is decorated with the hummer emblem, which is based on the wheel design of the military H1's self-inflating tires. This looks nice, and does the job for a lot of folks. But if the truck is really going to look custom, then it can't have the same one as everyone else. Fortunately there are lots of companies out there selling replacement doors.

Replacement doors come in two varieties. One is the chromed plastic door. It has several advantages over the stock door. Being plastic, it cannot corrode. It is also lighter in weight and much cheaper in price. The disadvantage to the plastic Hummer fuel door is that they can't really be locked, plastic is too easy to break. Billet fuel doors are the logical solution to this problem. They can be had in chrome or natural machined finish, with or without a lock. The machined billet look is nice, but is usually accompanied by replacement of most other chrome on the truck with billet replacements. This can be an expensive undertaking; the buyer should give it some thought and look at a few other trucks before proceeding.

Another interesting type of Hummer fuel door is the recessed type. It is not actually a door, but a replacement for the factory door. It is a chrome cover that fills the recess for the fuel cap, accompanied by a sharp-looking chrome fuel cap. The intention here is to give the vehicle a little more off-road street cred, as it is very similar to the fuel cap found on Jeep Wranglers.

Modifying your Hummer, doesn't have to cost an arm and leg. After all, the vehicle is not the most cost efficient vehicle being manufactured today but that is not why you bought one. However, saving money is always a consideration for most people. Customizing the wheels will cost quite a bit but modifying the fuel door is as inexpensive of an option that is available.

Hummer accessories can really add to the look of the vehicle and a Hummer fuel door is an inexpensive addition.

Classic Cheap Bentley Cars


Bentley cars are the cars with huge responsibilities making the lives of the people huge and gigantic. The car world has their roots in 1919 by Walter Owen Bentley who invented the engines which made the world stunned because of the powerful strength and committed features. After those efficient engines, the company started to make the cars and motors in 1938 and after that the company has never turned back. The progress of the company is jumping day by day and today the Bentley cars are counted as one of the best cars of the world.

The section of Cheap Bentley cars for sale is being enriched by the energetic and efficient cars as these cars are having longer lives and making the people to use them for longer whiles. The engine and stronger bodies make the car to have a longer age and they are in the position to have the suitability for resale.

The older and vintage models of Bentley are still running on the roads and the models like Bentley Blower which was introduced in 1929 is also having good response in the section of cheap Bentley cars. The same is the situation for the Bentley Cabriolet which was great offer for the users of those days containing more than 3 litre tank. The Bentley R type is one of the richer looking vehicles and is used and preferred by so many Government officials and upper class luxury seekers as these cars are truly the unique cars.

The latest introduction of Bentley Continental and Bentley Turbo RT are the most rocking cars and are warmly welcomed by the Bentley car lovers. But still the demand for the cheap Bentley cars for sale is never ending and is making the Bentley lovers enriched with the classics and unique collections.

About the Author
Read full story at OnlineTradeCars.com

Thursday, December 24, 2009

The Honda Civic Hybrid


If you are in the market for a compact hybrid vehicle that offers the same comfort and reliability of a conventional sedan, you'll want to consider the Honda Civic Hybrid. The Toyota Prius has become synonymous with hybrid cars and is unquestionably a good car, but its unique and perhaps quirky exterior is not everyone's cup of tea. The Honda Insight is probably the most affordable hybrid car available but it has been criticized as being too small and lacking in features. The Honda Civic Hybrid, however, is stylish, affordable, fuel efficient, and comes loaded with many great features. In fact, this car ranks #3 out of 35 on US News and World Report's list of affordable small cars. It is currently the most affordable hybrid in Canada and Energuide rated it as the most fuel efficient compact car in 2009.

So what are some of the Civic Hybrid's key features? The 2009 and 2010 editions come with a 4 cylinder 1.3L 110 Horsepower engine, 123 lb-ft of Torque, continuously variable transmission, cruise control, anti-lock brakes, power windows, power locks, and power steering. Front, passenger-side, and side curtain airbags, side-impact door beams, remote keyless entry, air conditioning, and automated climate control also come standard. You also have the option of having heated and/or leather seating and installing Honda's Satellite Linked Navigation System with Bluetooth connectivity. If that's not enough to get you excited, this sweet ride has a very decent fuel efficiency of 40 mpg in the city and 45 mpg on the highway. If you already drive a regular Honda Civic and are comfortable with it, the transition to the hybrid version makes even more sense because the two look almost identical. The Civic Hybrid just needs to make room for a battery pack and gets better mileage.

There are many great choices available when it comes to buying a hybrid car but the Civic Hybrid is definitely worth a closer look. If you are serious about buying a hybrid, be sure you visit your closest Honda dealer and test drive the new Honda Civic Hybrid!

For comprehensive information on the Honda Civic Hybrid including specifications, reviews, pictures, and pricing go ahead and log on now to: http://www.hondacivichybrid.org.

Aston Martin Driving Experiences


Founded in 1914 by Lionel Martin, Aston Martin came into existence under the principles of individuality, high quality, distinction and exhilaration. There were many twists and turns throughout the 20th century but now, in the 21st century, the founding principles are perhaps expressed more than ever in the stunning designs of the V12 Vantage, the Rapide, the DBS and of course James Bond's favourite - The DB9.

There is little doubt that Aston Martin makes absolutely stunning cars. Those that witness such a car passing by on the street are likely to find themselves temporarily distracted by the beauty of the design and the aura of status seeping from it's presence. Of course, everyone has their own opinion but it can probably be safely said that, in the eyes of the majority of people, Aston Martin's are possibly the most attractive brand of super car in the entire world. Some people dream of being able to find out first hand just what it feels like to drive such a prestigious brand of sports car. It doesn't have to be a dream.

These days there are so many opportunities available for those willing to reach out and grab them, one such opportunity is the chance to drive one of these masterpieces around a track. Many people are aware as to what driving experiences are but for those who don't know; a driving experience is where a member of the public can get behind the wheel of a fully fueled and ready-to-ride sports car and drive to their heart's content around a real race track. This is not only a huge thrill, but there is also a sense of accomplishment that comes with driving a car that is at the pinnacle of the automotive hierarchy.

There are many different locations available all across the country should you want to take up the challenge of driving an Aston Martin. Companies that provide these experiences generally try to make it as accessible as possible with a range of available nation wide locations so all you have to worry about is turning up and burning some rubber! Generally, the only restrictions are that you need to have a manual driving licence and you need to be in good health. The full event will usually take about 3 hours and all training regarding the handling of the car and the handling of the track are given before you get strapped into the Aston Martin. The instructor will be fully qualified in teaching you the ins and outs of the car and they are often racing drivers themselves, so they will not only be able to direct you safely around the track but will also be able to pass you a few racing hints for better car control.

Upon arrival, you will be ushered into a safety briefing that will inform you that the car you are about to handle is very powerful (but then that's why you are there!) and general rules of the track will be explained. Then you will be taught the tricks of the trade: how to stay in control when driving forcefully, a rather useful skill to acquire. Your instructor will then drive you around the track in a small sports car of some sort to familiarise you with the sensation of belting around the track, as well as showing you the racing lines and circuit driving techniques. Then the car is upgraded to something with a little bit more of a kick, such as a Porsche, so that you can show the instructor how it's done and get your first sample of the power you are about to witness.

Then comes the moment you have been waiting for. You get out of the car and start walking towards an Aston Martin V8 Vantage for a few laps of one of the most intense feelings you are likely to ever experience. Words cannot describe the feelings in store, but maybe some figures will help: 380bhp...170mph...0-60mph = 4.2 seconds. Many people believe that with a car of such power and such speed, the instructor is in place to make sure that you don't push the car too hard. People often find however, that the only thing stopping them from pushing the car harder and faster around the asphalt is their own reluctance to do so. The instructor is more than likely going to be nudging you to go faster or pointing out where to accelerate earlier out of a corner; they really try to give you the best experience possible and so they should they should, it's their job and it's your money!

As if that wasn't enough, as soon as you have proved yourself and step out of the Aston Martin you are probably going to be shoved in the general direction of a lightweight racing car. Lightweight racing cars, such as the lower formula relatives of F1 cars, are purpose-built racing machines with no other purpose than going as fast as possible. After working up to the Aston Martin and proving that you can handle the insanity of such a machine, your instructor will wander off (probably for a cup of tea) and give you the freedom of a car that really lets you feel the race track.

Overall, Aston Martin driving experiences are truly breathtaking once in a life time opportunities. If you want to drive an Aston Martin or you want to allow a friend or loved one to do so, you have two choices: fork out in excess of £50,000 for the privilege of owning your very own Aston Martin so you can drive around the streets of your village; or get together a few hundred pounds and belt one around a purpose built track. No speed bumps, no traffic lights, no cyclists! This is the ultimate opportunity to step into the world of James Bond and drive like him. This is sure to be the experience of a lifetime.

Red Letter Days provide high quality adventure & activity gifts for every occasion. Our wide range of gift experiences will solve any present buying dilemma. Purchase an activity gift voucher to give someone an unforgettable gift.

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

Which SUV Should You Be Driving?


If you're looking for a mid-sized SUV that will carry your whole family with comfort and still give you extra storage space, three options are the Dodge Durango, the Cadillac SRX and the Mercury Mountaineer. All three of these vehicles have new features for safety and comfort and all three offer quality service manuals. One disadvantage to buying SUVs is that they use a lot more gas than cars or crossovers but if the rising gas prices aren't a problem for you, SUVs are comfortable because of their larger size. You can see easier sitting up higher in an SUV than a small car and you'll also have room to carry passengers without feeling cramped.

The Dodge Durango repair manual is high quality and the vehicle offers certain features of a full sized SUV such as a larger towing capacity and a very spacious interior while still offering the smaller size that most people seek. This SUV has three rows of seating which offer enough space to carry the whole family. The towing capabilities of the Dodge Durango are also better than a lot of other mid-sized SUVs so you'll be able to tow whatever you need for those weekend family vacations. This vehicle has average handling but the handling is more like that of a truck and it is not as easy to handle as some car based crossover SUVs that are available today. The interior is not the lowest quality that you'll find on the market but it still falls short of many of it's competitors. This is a recommended purchase if you need something that is going to have a lot of interior space as well as being able to haul heavy loads.

The Cadillac SRX is a crossover SUV that is based more on a car than a truck. This luxury crossover is available in many different trim levels, starting with the basic trim which offers a power drivers seat, automatic climate control and a Bose sound system with eight speakers. If you're looking for something that is going to offer you more luxury, you can check out one of the other three trim levels. The highest of these four trims includes luxuries such as a sun roof, heated seats, and a hard drive based navigation system. This crossover does fall short of it's competitors in some areas. The Cadillac SRX is heavier than a lot of it's competitors so it doesn't drive as easily as some of it's lighter competitors. This SUV offers a smooth, quiet ride, average handling and a very luxury interior. If you're looking for something that is going to handle more like a car and give you all the luxuries you need, the Cadillac SRX repair manual is a good choice.

The Mercury Mountaineer has consistently been a mid-sized SUV that offers reliability and a good ride quality. This SUV is based more on a truck than a car so it's handling isn't as light as the Cadillac SRX but it still has good handling for it's class. If you need something that is going to be able to haul heavy loads behind it, this could be the mid-sized family SUV that you need. The Mercury Mountaineer offers many good service manuals and also a smooth quiet ride so you'll always be comfortable. If you need to take a lot of people with you, you can simply fold the seat up again and you have ample seating for the whole family. One disadvantage that the Mercury Mountaineer is known for is weak acceleration. If you're looking for something that is going to be comfortable, convenient and carry everything, this could be SUV for you.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Shirley_Manson


Positioning Car Subwoofers for the Perfect Bass


Boot space is obviously lost when you install subwoofers. It is important to remember that the enclosure has to fit as well. It is possible to get slim line or smaller subs which would minimise this problem, or custom made bass boxes. If you are already struggling for space back there, then this might mean that you need to look into installing the speakers somewhere else.

It is more difficult to fit the large subwoofers into other parts of your car, however, so if you are looking at 12" subs or larger, then you might have to compromise on boot space.

Volume is muffled by placing subwoofers in a boot. Depending on how loud you like your music this could be a curse or a blessing. Keeping the subwoofers in the boot does not mean that the sound will be a lot quieter, as the material that separates car boots from the passenger seats is by no means sound proof and the deep bass noises provided by a sub travel easily.

If you do think that the sound is compromised, then you can make small holes in the boot cover and disguise them with thin material. This should allow the sound to come out more easily.

An alternative position for your subs, if you are certain that you do not want to put them in your boot, is to have them behind the passenger seats and in front of the rear windscreen - making sure they do not limit your vision, which could be dangerous. This is a good position for smaller subs, such as 8", and will give your great quality bass, though it probably won't make the street shake with the power.

In the end, it all depends on what you want to get out of your subwoofers. If you're a car audio enthusiast who wants the bass line to make your entire body vibrate, then you might consider the subs more important than the boot space. If you just want to hear the details and nuances of the lower notes, then smaller subwoofers in the main compartment of your car could be for you.

When you are buying your subs, discuss your decision with the experts you are buying from. They will have extensive experience and might even install your subwoofers for you. Every car is acoustically different and, having seen your car, they will be able to give you a better idea of the best sound you can get.

To look into a range of subwoofers available for cars and to look into amplifiers and other types of car audio equipment, check out www.bassjunkies.com.
About the Author

Rachel Lawrence works writing articles and press releases for www.bassjunkies.com.

Monday, December 21, 2009

2 Best and Superior Products of Mitsubishi Cars


If you are looking for the car maker that offer wonderful and trustworthy car in the industry, the answer is The Mitsubishi Group of Companies. Annually, they always try to provide the market and the industry with excellent cars just like other auto makers.

The Mitsubishi has been making a great development in their selling with the production that is increasing of over 12 % since last year. They are still behind the types of Ford and Toyota who take over the car production market. However, with the growth in sales for Middle East, African, North American and Russia markets, two Mitsubishi cars that are the Outlander and the Lancer are giving contribution in gaining valuable ground on their contenders.

Recently, the public is informed that the Mitsubishi Company is ensuring that two of its cars would be well-prepared as a participant for the upcoming model.

The Mitsubishi Lancer 2008 is the model that the company claims as the one of the best selling for sedan model. This car will be holding more features with advanced technology since it has been redesigned by the company. It also has a good and successful record in the rally championship.

It was first produced in 1973 and today has reached the eighth generation that the first production begun in 2007. The Lancer has been amazingly sold for over six million units since the first time it was produced.

The Mitsubishi Outlander 2007 that is known as the type of SUV car is the other outstanding Mitsubishi cars. The sport utility vehicle Outlander has been launched in 2001 and today has reached the second generation that is first produced in 2005.

Mitsubishi has been prepared both of these cars to be ready to reap in sales and profits for the company, particularly when it is launched in the car market of America.

The Mitsubishi cars are now beginning to be more seen on the roads than ever before. The Japanese auto manufacturers always provide vehicles that are equipped with so many high technology features and gadgets for its customers that have not been yet arrived in the western.

The quality of the Mitsubishi cars is now actually beginning to show and the days that Mitsubishi required to solve the fault problem in its cars is long behind them now. The reliability and the reasonable price of the new Mitsubishi cars are the aspects that bring about the interest of the European market to purchase.

Hi, I am Derry Dharmawan from Indonesia. To get a quality car, you do not have to pay a lot because there are lots of cheap used cars available and they are still in very good condition. So, I created this article to offer some information about good cheap used cars that can be beneficial for any people.

The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupe


The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG coupe debuted this year at the Frankfurt Motor Show, scheduled to go on sale as early as next year. For those of you who have seen this beauty, the concept of a convertible version makes perfect sense.

Yes the Mercedes SLS AMG convertible version has been leaked onto the internet, spurring rapid-fire rumors of its existence. The rumors, photos and videos have only served to amp-up anticipation for this exotic beauty.

So let's compare the Mercedes coupe and the convertible. The notable disparity is that the convertible version spied lacks the suave Gullwing doors featured on its coupe predecessor, replaced by standard doors. It may be less James Bondish, but it is ideal for warm weather destinations. We are thinking that it would make a stellar addition to any fleet of exotic rental cars, adding an understated and sporty option to appeal to the masses.

If the rumors are true, the door marks the only difference between the SLS AMG coupe and the SLS AMG convertible. Both are said to feature the same 6.2-liter V8 engine capable of 563 horsepower and 650 Nm of torque.

As for the 0-60 test, the Mercedes SLS AMG coupe version hits it in an impressive 3.8 seconds, and that leaves us to assume that the topless version will lag somewhat behind, likely at an even 4 seconds.

It is always a welcome addition when a great supercar paves the way to a "convertible" or often named "roadster" version of itself. The market for exotic convertibles and exotic rental convertibles will certainly have room for one more!

While you await the release of the new Mercedes convertible, you can get in the mood behind the wheel of a Mercedes rental Miami style, or exotic rental car of your choice for y our next business or pleasure excursion.

Saturday, December 19, 2009

The Bentley Continental GT


The Continental GT heralded a new chapter in the history of Bentley, as it was the first car to be produced under the ownership of Volkswagen and marked the ending of a 70 year long association with Rolls Royce.

Compared to the old, last of the line Bentleys like the Continental R and T, the new Continental GT was a massive leap forward in terms of styling, handling and construction. What made the new GT even more impressive was that despite the fact that it weighed over 2.3 tons, the Continental had the performance to match most modern supercars.

Zero to 60 was reached in just 4.7 seconds and it could go on to a top speed a shade under 200 mph. Even when it reached the corners the Bentley's advanced suspension system coped remarkably well at concealing the GT's huge bulk.

The Bentley GT's suspension utilises computer controlled air springs, which automatically firm up in the corners to reduce body roll, whilst inside the cockpit the driver could choose from a range of sport or comfort settings to tailor the handling to the road conditions or their driving style.

Inside the Continental GT was a true four seater and, unlike other 2+2 designed cars, could easily carry four adults in exceptional comfort. The interior is a combination of fine leathers and exquisitely matched walnut woods. However all of the modern refinements are also present including satellite navigation, cruise control, high end audio system and even fully electric, heated and massaging front seats.

Under the bonnet was the extremely powerful six litre W12 engine that could deliver 550 bhp and 650 Nm of torque from very low down in the rev range. Power was delivered to a sophisticated four wheel drive system via a six speed automatic gearbox, which incorporated finger tip mounted controls on the steering wheel.

Despite all the advances in technology Volkswagen has made sure that the GT still retains the looks of a true Bentley, with its large imposing body, elliptical xenon headlights and un mistakable mesh grill. This is a Bentley for the 21st century and one that still has tremendous presence and stature.

There is no doubt that the Continental GT marks a new direction for Bentley, and one in which it can make full use of large resources of its Volkswagen parent company. In actual fact the GT shares many of its components and platform with the VW Phaeton, although unsurprisingly Bentley likes to keep that secret quiet.

As an every day car with its muscular bodywork and powerful upgrade car bulbs, the Bentley Continental GT is a fantastic ownership proposition, it has the looks, performance and presence all wrapped up within the legendary Bentley build quality. With the first of these Continental GT's now several years old, their used car prices have now fallen considerably and there has never been a better time to take the plunge and own one of these incredible cars yourself. Just think of the how nice it will be to sink into those quilted leather seats, fire up that amazing W12 engine, and allow the piercing bright xenon headlight bulbs to guide you home.

The 1970 Chevrolet Monte Carlo


Chevrolet introduced the 1970 Monte Carlo as an answer to the restyled 1969 Pontiac Grand Prix, and to compete with the Ford Thunderbird. Both cars were based on the mid-size GM A-Body platform, and rode on the same 116 inch wheelbase as the four-door Chevelle and the El Camino. The 1970 Monte Carlo was only available as a two-door coupe, and it holds the distinction of having the longest hood ever installed on a Chevrolet! It was billed as a "personal luxury" car, or a "gentleman's performance" car.

The standard engine was a 250 HP 2-barrel version of the ubiquitous small block 350 CID V8. It could be ordered with a 300 HP 4-barrel 350 small block, a 265 HP 2-barrel 400 CID small block V8, or a 330 HP 4-barrel 402 big block V8 that Chevrolet for some reason marketed as a 400. There was also a Monte Carlo SS version available that came with a 360 HP version of Chevrolet's brand new big block 454 V8 engine with a stiffer suspension, front disc brakes, and some discreet badging. The SS-454 was a lively performer, with a zero to sixty time of 7.5 seconds. There were reportedly ten cars that year special ordered with the 450HP LS-6 454 engine. The small block equipped cars generally came with the Turbo-Hydramatic 350 transmission, while the big block cars typically had the heavier-duty Turbo-Hydramatic 400.

The base 1970 Monte Carlo weighed in at 3460 lbs, about 200 lbs. more than a comparably-equipped 2-door Chevelle with the shorter 112-inch wheelbase. Many Monte Carlos however, were equipped with more luxury options than the typical Chevelle, such as air conditioning (yes, in 1970, air conditioning was considered a luxury option, unlike today!), power windows, and other items that increased the vehicle weight. Fender skirts were also a popular option.

There were somewhere between 130,000 and 146,000 Monte Carlos produced in 1970, depending on what resource you reference. Only 3,823 of those had the SS-454 package, and those cars are highly sought after today by enthusiasts. The early cars (1970-1972) have an active following, with several clubs and online forums dedicated to them. Since it shared the same platform as the Chevelle, many aftermarket high-performance parts that were designed for the Chevelle will fit the Monte Carlo. Even though it was marketed primarily on the basis of luxury, it became a popular model for stock car racing. Several big names in NASCAR drove Monte Carlos, such as Bobby Allison and Neil Bonnett.

The 1970 Monte Carlo succeeded very well in its original purpose: to compete with the Pontiac Grand Prix and the Ford Thunderbird. There were more 1970 Monte Carlos sold than the Pontiac Grand Prix and the Ford Thunderbird combined! The sculpted body, long front fenders and slight "Coke Bottle" shape made it a muscular-looking, classy car, and to me it is much better looking than the Chevelle. It is one of my favorite body styles; I just wish they had made a 9/10 size version of the car!

Keith Farren is an ASE Certified Master Technician with a BS in Business Administration, an Associate degree in Automotive Technology, and over twenty years experience in the automotive industry. He also operates two websites dedicated to classic cars, Classic Car Financing and Loans and Classic Car Prices Today.

Thursday, December 17, 2009

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet


Mercedes-Benz long and awaited for E-Class Cabriolet will don a cap and scarf so that it can provide all year-round comfort for all passengers. Their aerodynamic experts have devised an 'Aircap' to keep all occupants warm and free of buffeting. It will also be available with an Airscarf system from the SLK model.

It blasts hot air at the base of the neck from the headrests making this car the future the beginning of an open-top season all year round. The Aircap is something Mercedes has been working on for 20 years, consisting of a spoiler and mesh netting in the top of the windscreen.

At the touch of a button this mesh raises and the rear headrests which also are joined to another mesh net automatically goes up and down when the spoiler rises. The cabriolet has been tested in their wind tunnel racing 90mph gales, with the side windows up experience very little buffeting in the main compartment. It took 2000-3000 hours of wind tunnel experiments and intricate design in the build of the mesh nets to create the perfect wine-free cabin.

With an aim to create a warm air bath in the cabin and keep heat from escaping and the climate system in the car for longer, the benefit from this has resulted in better fuel economy and reduced in-car noise levels because of less aerodynamic drag ad flutter inside the cabin.

The E-class cabriolet will come with a 7-layered electric folding roof and when it crosses the British boarder in March 2010 the cabriolet will be available in a choice of 7 engines and the Aircap will be available on every single model, and as an added bonus it hopes to introduce its prices 5% below those of its predecessor.

When it comes to assessing the benefits of the caps and scarf, Mercedes may have blown every other cabriolet and coupe of the water including the BMW 3 Series. Swindon female motorists are going to find this car hard to ignore what with soothing hot air blowing at the base of their necks.

Jenny Louise Jones is an online marketer who is currently researching BMW 3 Series

The Rise of the Ferrari


When asked to name a supercar who wouldn't have Ferrari on the tip of their tongue. What young boy didn't have pictures of shiny red Ferraris on their bedroom wall? But where did the famous brand of Ferrari come from and who is the man behind the legend?

Enzo Ferrari was born in Modena, Italy, on 18th February 1898. His family owned a foundry and Enzo shared a room above the workshop with his brother Alfredo, waking to the sound of hammering when work started in the mornings.

The young Enzo saw his first car race in 1908 with his father. The whole environment of the shouting crowds and the brave drivers aroused his interest.

Enzo was forced to leave school after the death of his father, going on to work in the Modeno Fire Brigade's workshop as a turning instructor. After a spell in the army (which he joined in 1917), Enzo was released from duty because of ill health. Instead of returning to schooling, Enzo found work as a test driver in Turin in 1918, later moving to Milan to work as a racing driver for automaker Construzioni Meccaniche Nazionale. The first proper race that Enzo entered was the Parma-Berceto in 1919. After that there was no looking back.

Enzo founded Scuderia Ferrari in 1929. They sponsored and trained Alfa Romeo staff. He was head of racing at Alfa Romeo until he heard that they planned to take over Scuderia Ferrari - prompting him to leave. After that he was prohibited from competing for a few years so the factory produced machine tools and aircraft accessories, although they did manage to make the Tipo 815 racing car during that time.

The emblem of Ferrari (the prancing horse) was adopted by Ferrari in 1923. At the Savio track in Ravenna after a race win, Enzo met the mother of Baracca, an Italian air force ace and national hero who was shot down at a young age. Baracca had a black horse as an emblem on his planes because his squad was enrolled in a cavalry regiment. The countess asked him to use the emblem for good luck. Enzo kept the black horse as it was on the plane but added a yellow background - a symbolic colour of Modena.

Ferrari moved to Maranello in 1943. The factory had to be rebuilt in 1946 after bomb damage from World War Two. The first Ferrari road car was built in 1947 - the 125 Sport. It was a high performance car with a V12 engine. They entered Formula One racing in 1950.

The last car commissioned by Enzo was the famous F40 which was revealed on the 40th birthday of the company.

Enzo Ferrari died on 14th August 1988 in Modena.

Ferrari today can claim 15 F1 drivers' titles, 16 F1 constructors titles, 203 F1 pole postitions and 209 F1 wins to name but a few. They attract top drivers and are legendary in the field of Formula One. Michael Schumacher driving for Ferrari dominated F1 from 2000-2004 and cemented the place of Ferrari as a great racing brand.

By Rebecca Twigg

For a chance to get behind the wheel of a Ferrari (including the F430 F1 Spyder) visit the Premiere Velocity website - great for Ferrari hire Surrey and Ferrari hire Kent too.

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

The 2010 MazdaSpeed3


The 2010 Mazda Mazdaspeed3 Specs

- Child Safety Door Locks Located On Rear Doors, Power Door Locks Operated Via Remote and Internal Switch With Automatic Locking, Selective Locking/Unlocking

- Audio and Navigation Pre-Wiring, 2 Front Power Outlets, 1 Integrated With Cigarette Lighter

- Turbocharged 2.3-Liter, 16-Valve, EFI Engine; Front Mounted With Horsepower Of 263@5500, Torque Of 280@3000

- Wireless Communication Access For Bluetooth(R) Enabled Devices, AM/FM Radio With Speed Sensitive Volume and 6 Speakers Total; CD Player; MP3 Player

- Front and Rear Body Color 5-MPH Impact-Absorbing Bumpers, Body Color Rear Spoiler

- Black Carpet Located In Passenger Cabin and Cargo Area, Front Carpeted Floor Mats, Leather Steering Wheel, Rear Carpeted Floor Mats, Alloy Located On Foot Pedals and Scuff Plates

- Power Speed Sensing Rack and Pinion Variable Assisted Steering

- Rear Stabilizer Bar, Independent Multi-Link Rear Suspension With Coil Springs, Shock Absorbers and Sport Ride Type, Independent MacPherson Strut Front Suspension With Coil Springs, Shock Absorbers and Sport Ride Type, Front Stabilizer Bar

The 2010 Mazda MX-5 MIATA


The 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata Specs

- Halogen Headlights, AM/FM Radio With Seek, Speed Sensitive Volume and 6 Speakers Total; CD Player; MP3/WMA Player

- 2010 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is 2.0-Liter, VVT 16-Valve, MPFI Engine; Front/Longitudinal Mounted With Horsepower Of 167@7000, Torque Of 140@5000.

- Leather Steering Wheel, Front Carpeted Floor Mats, Black Vinyl Located On Doors

- Passenger Airbag Cutoff Switch, Front Side Airbags, Driver Airbag, Passenger Airbag, Automatic Locking Retractor

- Power Speed Sensing Rack and Pinion Variable Assisted Steering

- Front Stabilizer Bar, Independent Multi-Link Rear Suspension With Coil Springs and Gas Charged Shock Absorbers, Rear Stabilizer Bar, Independent Double Wishbone Front Suspension With Coil Springs and Gas Charged Shock Absorbers

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Driving the Used Porsche Cayenne


I've driven a used Porsche Cayenne S for a few years, during which I've enjoyed trouble-free, exciting motoring. My motivation for buying the Cayenne was a growing family and also my job, which takes me around the countryside doling out agricultural advice. I owned a Porsche Boxster for a while so I knew I'd be happy and in familiar hands with the Cayenne. I'll admit I wasn't entirely convinced by the off-road claims but that's the great benefit of buying used - you gain from the experiences of others. Though some die-hard Porsche lovers have spurned the Cayenne, I'm totally on side. This is a triumph for Porsche in every way.

I'm happy to say the Cayenne is more than capable of dealing with challenging terrain. It's certainly not sluggish either, delivering a 0-62mph speed of 6.7 seconds. There's no compromise on that famous Porsche driving experience at all, for it's every bit as impressive and great fun to drive on any surface.

Interior space is generous and the kids have all the room they need in the back of the Cayenne. It's a pretty big car, over seven feet wide, so there's no feeling of confinement in back or front. The split seats are a great bonus for me day to day, allowing me to stow equipment efficiently and easily. The boot can capacity is a massive 540 litres, so unsurprisingly I've yet to find myself struggling for space, and that's even with all the kids' football and cricket kit, too.

The Used Porsche Cayenne's comfort factor is really good, with leather upholstery throughout. The driving position is excellent, too, offering a very good view of the road ahead. I can be driving for most of the day sometimes, so the supportive seats are much needed.

Porsche's Cayenne has taken the off-road market by storm since its launch, and it's good to know I'm not alone in thinking this is a superb addition to the Porsche range, diversion from character though it may be.

Pete J Ridgard is a writer and a car enthusiast. He currently writes for the automotive industry. Here he discusses Used Porsche cars.

Palace on Wheels for Bentley Cars


The Bentley brand is to luxury cars what Everest is to mountains. Founded by Walter Owen Bentley, Bentley Motors came into being on 18 January 1919. In August 1919, Bentley Motors Limited was registered. The first Flying B insignia appeared on the 1920 Bentley 3 1/2 Liter test car, which was built near Baker Street in London, and the first production car, another 3 1/2 Liter, was delivered to Bentley's first customer in 1921. Bentley saw its first win at Brooklands in 1921. A privately owned Bentley took 4th place in the first Le Mans in 1923, prompting W.O. Bentley to support a factory team.

Engines grew larger, with a 6 1/2 Liter, a 4 1/2 Liter, a supercharged Speed Six, and an 8 Liter that weighed two and a half tons rolling out of the Cricklewood factory. Walter Owen Bentley's dedication to quality created beautiful cars and this bring in a financial crisis. By 1931, things were no better and Rolls-Royce bought Bentley secretly using a company named the British Central Equitable Trust. Not even Bentley himself knew the true identity of the purchaser until the deal was completed. Hence the original Bentley Motors Limited existed for only twelve years, from 1919 until 1931.

The first Rolls-Royce-produced Bentley, the 3.5-litre, debuted in 1933. The Mk VI of 1946 was the first Bentley to be built using Rolls-Royce components, and the 1952 R-Type Continental was the last Bentley built without a Rolls-Royce equivalent. Bentleys and Rolls-Royces were built side-by-side at the Crewe facility, with a Bentley-badged clone for every Rolls-Royce that rolled off the assembly line. The tide turned for Bentley Motors Limited with the introduction of the 1982 Bentley Mulsanne Turbo, named for the straight at Le Mans.

In 1984, the Bentley Corniche was renamed the Continental, harkening back to the company's roots. The Bentley Continental R, which debuted in 1991, was the first Bentley to have its own dedicated body since 1954. With Bentley outselling Rolls by the early '90s, the companies celebrated 50 years of partnership by using a green background on the Flying B for all 1993 models. Volkswagen bought Rolls-Royce in 1998, including Bentley. BMW then bought the rights to the Rolls-Royce name and announced that Rolls and Bentley would be two separate companies after 67 years.

In 2001, Bentley returned to Le Mans and again dropped out in 2003. The 2006 Bentley Azure became the resurrected Bentley's flagship luxury sedan. Since its introduction at the 2003 Detroit Auto Show, the Bentley Continental lineup has expanded from one very fast sedan to seven even faster sedans and convertibles, including one flex-fuel vehicle. Each has the 6L W12 engine, but the Continental Supersports, as part of Bentleys commitment to reducing its carbon footprint company-wide, can run on either gasoline or bio-fuels. Bentley latest creation is the 2009 Mulsanne sedan.

About the Author

Carazoo is India's First & Only Car Portal with Interactive Animations. Get FREE Quote & Test Drive, Compare Cars, Read Reviews, Articles, News, & Blogs. Get Best deals & discounts, View Interactive Animations.

 
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