The Non-Subaru New Car News Thread #1 [Archive] - Page 4

mh_WRX

02-26-2004, 10:05 AM

2005 Corvette Engine Most Standard Power Ever

Detroit - GM today announced the new 2005 Corvette will feature the most powerful standard engine ever in Corvette history: the 400 horsepower, 6.0-liter, small-block V-8.

The new 6.0-liter LS2 is part of the fourth generation of GM's small-block engines. The small-block debuted in 1955 with 265 cubic inches and 195 horsepower. Since then, this legendary family of engines has been an integral component of Corvette's performance history.

It's almost impossible to talk about Corvette without the small-block, said Dave Muscaro, GM Powertrain's assistant chief engineer of small-blocks for cars. As Corvette has grown into a world-class sports car, the small-block has grown with it. The LS2 is a state-of-the-art engine that draws on a rich heritage of performance.

The LS2 also raises the bar for standard performance in the Corvette, delivering 400 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 400 lb.-ft. of torque at 4400 rpm “ an increase of 50 horses and 40 lb.-ft. of torque over the previous Corvette's LS1 engine.

More than dynamometer numbers, the LS2 engine's range of power and torque is broad and very usable in everyday driving, said Muscaro. This engine is smoother, and more refined, but at the same time retains tire-thrashing output.

Design changes for the better
Compared to the Gen III-based LS1, the LS2 incorporates several significant changes that help improve performance, reliability and serviceability:

All-new aluminum block casting incorporates provisions for external knock sensors and revised oil galleries; external sensors improve serviceability
Cylinder bore diameter increased to 101.6 mm (4.00 inches), increasing displacement to 6.0 liters
Camshaft lift increased to take advantage of increased cylinder head flow
Camshaft sensor relocated from the rear of the block to the front of the block provides room for new oil galleries
Flat-top piston design with lower ring tension reduces friction
Piston floating wrist pins help quiet the engine
Redesigned, wingless oil pan with cast baffling has reduced mass and provides superior oil control under high-performance driving maneuvers
Revised exhaust manifolds are 33 percent lighter
More efficient ignition coils require less energy to provide a comparable spark
Compression raised to 10.9:1
Larger, 90-mm single-blade throttle body
Reduced-mass water pump design with improved sealing capability
Engine redline raised to 6500 rpm
Revised and more powerful engine controller incorporates all electronic throttle control functions.
Mass has been reduced by 7 kilograms on the automatic version.
Cylinder heads for the LS2 are derived from designs used in previous Corvette Z06 models, including raised intake ports and an unshrouded-valve combustion chamber design that, when combined with the engine's flat-top pistons, produces a more efficient swirl of the air/fuel mixture. This efficiency enables a higher 10.9:1 compression ratio, which increases fuel economy and horsepower.
Valves measure 2 inches for the intake and 1.55 inches for the exhaust. The valve springs also have been upgraded to withstand the engine's increased power and rpm range.

The LS2's new oil pan was developed to ensure oil delivery commensurate with Corvette's high-performance capability. Extensive track testing has shown the new design to provide better oil control under the extreme demands of high-rpm/high g-force driving maneuvers. The elimination of the previous gull wing oil pan design also reduces the engine's oil capacity from 6.5 quarts to 5.5 quarts with a dry filter.

Engineers also increased the efficiency and reduced the mass of the exhaust manifolds. Wall thickness of the manifolds is reduced from 4 mm to 3 mm, eliminating weight and helping enhance airflow by approximately 4 percent.

We sweated the details to ensure the engine maintains a balance between performance and efficiency, Muscaro said.

Several of the new features of the LS2 were incorporated as continuous improvements to later versions of the Gen III engine, including long-life, iridium-tip spark plugs; pistons with full floating wrist pins; a redesigned water pump that significantly reduces the probability of a leak; and a stronger, long-life timing chain.

Building on a proven foundation
The LS2's Gen IV architectural roots lie in the proven LS1 5.7-liter Gen III V-8 that was standard in the Corvette C5. It was an engine that redefined performance and efficiency expectations of cam-in-block architecture.

Like the venerable small-block engine introduced in 1955, the modern small-block features a 90-degree cylinder bank arrangement and 4.40-inch bore centers “ the distance between the center of one cylinder and the center of the next. The Gen IV builds upon the strengths of the Gen III small-block architecture, including:

Aluminum block with iron cylinder bore liners: The lightweight block is cast from 319-T5 aluminum with cast-in-place iron cylinder bore liners. A die-cast aluminum valley cover and upper deck rails tie together the cylinder banks, increasing torsional and bending stiffness.

Deep skirt block: Structural rigidity and operating smoothness is enhanced because the engine block extends below the crankshaft centerline.

Cross-bolted main caps: Two horizontal cross bolts for each main bearing cap complement four traditional vertical main cap bolts and contribute additional strength and smoothness to the engine's rotating assembly.

Gerotor oil pump: Simple and compact in design, the gerotor-style oil pump fits the shallow oil pan and offers superior pumping capability.

Balanced cylinder head design: Performance and efficiency is enhanced with identical airflow and energy direction for each cylinder.

Coil-near-plug ignition: A separate ignition coil pack and short spark plug wire for each cylinder maximize the efficiency of the delivered coil energy, enhancing fuel efficiency and power.

Electronic throttle control (ETC): Instead of a mechanical linkage between the gas pedal and engine throttle, an electronic throttle control system improves driveability and reduces overall system complexity by eliminating typical conventional mechanical items, such as the idle air control motor, cruise control module and throttle relaxer (traction control).

Because the LS2's new engine controller incorporates ETC commands, the separate ETC module used on the LS1 is no longer required. This allows faster communication of the controller to the throttle, as well as reducing the mass and complexity of the system. Additionally, emissions are slightly improved with the damping of unnecessary throttle movement.

Improvements to the engine's crankcase breathing and ventilation were made similar to the LS6 engine, including moving the crankcase ventilation system's PCV valve away from the rocker covers and into the block valley.

The small-block V-8 is a powerful and continually refined package that stacks up with the best engines around the globe, said Muscaro. The Corvette is simply the best way to showcase its world-class traits.

Exhaustive efforts
Advances in catalyst substrates made possible catalytic converters that are at the same time more effective and less restrictive for the LS2's exhaust. The new converters are mounted closer to the exhaust manifold for quicker lightoff and reduced cold-start emissions. As a result, the more restrictive quad catalyst design of the LS1 “ with its small, auxiliary pup converters “ was not necessary to meet emissions requirements. An additional benefit of the exhaust system's development was the elimination of the LS1's air injection reaction system.

Subtle adjustments were made to the C6 exhaust system itself to improve its performance. Sharp angles in the tubing have been replaced with more gradual bends. A larger muffler volume and tri-flow technology eliminated certain periods prone to unwanted noise, particularly between 1500 and 2400 rpm. An inline muffler that flows more efficiently replaces the laterally mounted muffler in the C5. These changes, coupled with one converter per exhaust bank, reduced backpressure in the system and contributed to the LS6's 400 horsepower and 400 lb.-ft. of torque.

Changing gears
The 2005 Corvette continues to offer drivers thrilling driving dynamics, whether they prefer shifting or leaving it to the transmission. The Tremec T56 six-speed manual is standard and the Hydra-Matic 4L65-E four-speed automatic is optional.

Corvette engineers thoroughly revised the Tremec gear box and added proprietary technology not offered on other automakers' high-performance transmissions. The six-speed transmission also has revised gearing when selected with the Z51 performance option. With the Z51, the Tremec is tailored with numerically higher gears to improve acceleration. Also, a lower fifth gear gives the Z51 better fuel efficiency and a higher top speed than base models. To increase durability in sustained high-speed situations, the Z51 and the base European manual-transmission models have a transmission cooler.

Smoother shifting six-speed
C6 Corvette drivers will find more pleasing, performance-oriented shifts with the six-speed transmission. They're smoother and more precise, with shorter overall throws. The gear shift lever is now an inch shorter, and travel for all synchronizers is reduced by 10 percent. An all-new shift linkage and shift-rail bearings contribute to a more positive, confident feel. Computer Aided Gear Selection (CAGS) continues as a fuel-economy enhancement function for the manual transmission.

Durable 4L65-E delivers automatic performance
The available automatic transmission in the C6 is the new Hydra-Matic 4L65-E four-speed. An upgraded version of the C5's 4L60-E, the L65 is strengthened and revised to accommodate the LS2's 400 lb.-ft. of torque.

To beef up the internals, a five-pinion planetary gear set was added “ replacing a four-pinion gear set. The extra gear reduces friction and loads carried by all the gears. The washers between the gear sets are made from Teflon, allowing optimal operation at high speed.

For protection from the high temperatures that are generated by high speed, a four-plate oil cooler has been added. When the transmission fluid reaches 127 degrees Celsius (approximately 260 F), the torque converter lock does not disengage, except briefly during shifts. This prevents fluid shear in the torque converter from adding heat to the transmission.

The 4L65-E uses a highly advanced electronic controller that has been specifically calibrated for Performance Algorithm Shifting. This technology automatically selects the optimal gear for a given driving condition, making it a willing accomplice for performance driving and hard cornering. The 4L65-E transmission shifts at higher rpm, compared to the C5's 4L60-E, to take advantage of the LS2's higher horsepower and rev range.

SUBE555

02-26-2004, 12:32 PM

Originally posted by subyfanatic
The April 2004 issue of Motor Trend has a new illustration of what they speculate the new Lancer Evolution IX will look like. I can't seem to find this image anywhere on the web but I did find a chop of the rally car done up street style. It's been floating around the web and most of you may have seen it. My opinion...

FUGLY!!!
http://www.lancerevoclub.org/news/full/evoIX.jpg

:(

Could be a lot worse, though the WRC wing definitely adds to the fudgly. Take that thing off!

kage

02-26-2004, 12:56 PM

I thought it had been confirmed that Mitsubishi had pulled out of the WRC last year because they felt the Lancer was not competitive with the current field and they'd return with a different platform (presumably smaller to compete with the Pugs). So that begs the question: will there be a Lancer Evolution IX at all?

C-daleRidr

02-26-2004, 01:50 PM

DoubleA

02-26-2004, 02:30 PM

new article on corvette convertible at thecarconnection.com gives it 0-60 sec times at 4.1:eek: I wonnder what the Z06 is going to bring to the table? :eek:

link: http://thecarconnection.com/index.asp?n=156,173&sid=173&article=6888

AWDPilot

02-26-2004, 02:45 PM

Allot of fun :D

SUBE555

02-26-2004, 02:53 PM

Originally posted by kage
I thought it had been confirmed that Mitsubishi had pulled out of the WRC last year because they felt the Lancer was not competitive with the current field and they'd return with a different platform (presumably smaller to compete with the Pugs). So that begs the question: will there be a Lancer Evolution IX at all?

Mitsu is running the EVOs. The reason they don't seem as competitive as the others, they are running gear between GroupN and GroupA (mfg cars) and they're really just trying to make them last the long haul before up and throwing much more complicated parts in there. I really don't disagree with their point of view. What's the point in beating the crowd at 50% of the race and calling it quits because you know something will go wrong. Reliable, then potent.

mh_WRX

02-26-2004, 03:22 PM

Originally posted by DoubleA
new article on corvette convertible at thecarconnection.com gives it 0-60 sec times at 4.1:eek: I wonnder what the Z06 is going to bring to the table? :eek:

link: http://thecarconnection.com/index.asp?n=156,173&sid=173&article=6888

Here are some more shots:

http://home.nc.rr.com/nchowards/hosting/c6_conv1.gif
http://home.nc.rr.com/nchowards/hosting/c6_conv2.gif
http://home.nc.rr.com/nchowards/hosting/c6_conv3.gif
http://home.nc.rr.com/nchowards/hosting/c6_conv4.gif

evilted

02-26-2004, 06:33 PM

Here's a link:

http://autoweek.com/cat_content.mv?port_code=autoweek&cat_code=carnews&loc_code=index&content_code=02725347

Surprised that VW marketing is positioning this car as a head-to-head competitor with the STi and the Evo.... Given that most of us spend inordinate amounts of time in traffic jams every day, it probably IS competitive with the Mitsu and the Subie. :)

plunk10

02-27-2004, 10:24 AM

Originally posted by evilted
Here's a link:

http://autoweek.com/cat_content.mv?port_code=autoweek&cat_code=carnews&loc_code=index&content_code=02725347

Surprised that VW marketing is positioning this car as a head-to-head competitor with the STi and the Evo.... Given that most of us spend inordinate amounts of time in traffic jams every day, it probably IS competitive with the Mitsu and the Subie. :)

Badass car, but not worth $29,675 IMO.

SpoolinUp

02-28-2004, 04:00 AM

sorry if this has already been adressed, theres alot of pages to sift through:) will the evo MR be coming to the U.S.? Also are there any dates when the evo 9 will come out?

aspera

02-29-2004, 12:12 AM

Autoweek: "The MR is the first Japanese steel monocoque production car to use an aluminum roof panel, which is nine pounds lighter than steel and allows for a substantial reduction in the center of gravity. Diagonal braces are used to reinforce the roof joints at the front, center and rear pillars, while aluminum side-impact bars cut another eight pounds off the curb weight."

Subie needs to do this to the WRX and start using aluminum bumper beams, too. Also, I'd like to see the roof panel be removeable (hey, why not?) so that roll cages could be installed easier. That would also allow for aftermarket roof panels made out of carbon fiber...with molded-in roof scoops.:banana: Roof panels don't seem much different than hoods or trunks (which are available in carbon).

JaySee

02-29-2004, 03:45 AM

Why not just chop off the roof entirely? It won't hurt the structure with a roll cage in it's place and you'll get a lot more ventilation then a tiny roof scoop. Just make sure you install an electric helmet visor wiper. Low center of gravity, structural rigidity and safety, and a lot cooler, but dirtier driver. Of course I'm talking about a race car.

All that aluminum would never make it into a WRX. The price would become to high. However, maybe the STi or a special edition model like the RA.

FYI, the M3 CSL has a carbon fibre roof.

Kuro

02-29-2004, 12:55 PM

Originally posted by JaySee
Why not just chop off the roof entirely? It won't hurt the structure with a roll cage in it's place and you'll get a lot more ventilation then a tiny roof scoop. Just make sure you install an electric helmet visor wiper. Low center of gravity, structural rigidity and safety, and a lot cooler, but dirtier driver. Of course I'm talking about a race car.

Coefficient of drag....

subyfanatic

02-29-2004, 01:11 PM

I didn't see this posted yet. Looks interesting but, it's a KIA :huh:

http://www.cardesignnews.com/news/2004/040213chicago-autoshow/images/kia-mojave13.jpg
http://www.cardesignnews.com/news/2004/040213chicago-autoshow/images/kia-mojave2.jpg
http://www.cardesignnews.com/news/2004/040213chicago-autoshow/images/kia-mojave22.jpg

Kia Mojave

Kia revealed he KCV4 Mojave mid-size pick-up truck concept, the first pickup truck – concept or production – Kia has ever shown in the US. The Mojave is specifically designed to meet the needs and tastes of North American consumers.

The Mojave was designed at the Kia/Hyundai Research & Design Center in NamYang, South Korea, under the direction of Lee Jae-Rim, Designer and Senior Research Engineer on the Advanced Design Team at Nam Yang. “Our design objectives for the Mojave were unique in that we attempted to combine a forward-thinking cabin with an advanced, open and modern feel that would appeal to Generation Y consumers,” said Mr. Lee. “Alternately, the exterior design combines a more traditional exterior truck profile made up of simple, basic forms that clearly communicate the rugged capability of the vehicle.”

Sized between American compact and full-size trucks, the Mojave features a sporty two-plus-two cabin. Using aircraft design as their inspiration, Mojave’s design team created an interior space that is focused around the truck’s instrumentation. A key design feature is the Mojave’s ability to stretch its rear bed into the passenger cabin at the touch of a button, with a power-operated rear wall sliding forward to extend the bed from 71 inches to 86 inches.

R32Guy

02-29-2004, 10:24 PM

Have to say, I really like what's coming out of Hyudai's design room these days. Fresh, solid, and attractive looking cars. This just adds to their current position in the market. I hope this direction is received well by the buying public.

Ghostrider600

02-29-2004, 10:56 PM

Wonder what engine the Kia would get?

...I fear midsize truck with eco-size power.

JaySee

03-01-2004, 08:16 AM

Originally posted by Kuro
Coefficient of drag....

Not a huge issue in Rally where your top speed is 125 mph tops. Also, nothing a tonneau cover wouldn't help fix.

mh_WRX

03-01-2004, 09:45 AM

Originally posted by R32Guy
Have to say, I really like what's coming out of Hyudai's design room these days. Fresh, solid, and attractive looking cars. This just adds to their current position in the market. I hope this direction is received well by the buying public.

Wait until the new Sonata Coupe and Tuscani debute. BTW, these are testing in So Cal right now, so those with Cameras keep an eye out.

plunk10

03-01-2004, 09:47 AM

:huh: nice Kia :huh:

seriously, I think it'll do well if the price is low. No matter what people say about Kia, the low initial price (read: lower monthly payment) will win many people over, even if it's a piece of crap.

mh_WRX

03-01-2004, 10:06 AM

More on the Beemers:

http://home.nc.rr.com/nchowards/hosting/new_bmws.jpg

Beaverboy

03-01-2004, 10:07 AM

Originally posted by mh_WRX
More on the Beemers:

Those don't look like motorcycles to me ;)

Bimmers = cars
Beemers = cycles

mh_WRX

03-01-2004, 11:26 AM

lol. I stand corrected.

On another note:

Saturn to add RWD car
General Motors is expected to announce on Monday that Saturn will get a rear-wheel-drive sporty car.

mh_WRX

03-01-2004, 11:38 AM

Originally posted by mh_WRX
lol. I stand corrected.

On another note:

Saturn to add RWD car
General Motors is expected to announce on Monday that Saturn will get a rear-wheel-drive sporty car.

BTW, it will probably be the Curve.

mh_WRX

03-01-2004, 03:37 PM

Saturn Portfolio To Expand Significantly During Next Three Years

http://www.theautochannel.com/N/F/news/2004/03/01/182820.1-lg.jpg

DETROIT - General Motors announced today that Saturn would add a sports car to its vehicle line-up in early 2006. The product will be built at its Wilmington, Del., manufacturing facility. Wilmington is also the future production site of the Pontiac Solstice. The Solstice and the new Saturn will be built on GM's new small car "Kappa" architecture.

"The future sports car will serve as a halo vehicle for Saturn," said Bob Lutz, GM Vice Chairman, Product Development, Chairman GM North America and Interim-President GM Europe. "This is a game-changer for Saturn. It is the first vehicle of its type for the growing brand and showcases a dramatic new styling direction."

Saturn's portfolio is expanding. In addition to the sports car, Saturn will introduce three new products during next the 36 months, including RELAY - a crossover sport van - due out this fall, a new midsize vehicle based on GM's Epsilon architecture coming in 2006, followed by a larger SUV. In addition, the brand recently introduced a group of performance vehicles, the ION and VUE Red Lines. Saturn vehicles are sold by 440 retailers nationwide, a group that leads the industry in customer sales and service.

mh_WRX

03-01-2004, 03:55 PM

The new 300C and Dodge Magnum.

Dodge Pumps American Iron with All-New 2005 Dodge Magnum

http://www.theautochannel.com/N/F/news/2004/03/01/182766.1-lg.jpg

Dodge's All-New HEMI(R)-Powered Magnum is About Living Life Large

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., March 1 -- Dodge is on a mission to design and deliver aspirational vehicles that provide differentiation from the competition and compete in the heart of the market. The Dodge Magnum is the new shape of American muscle, celebrating what American muscle cars were in the past, but with a design and packaging configuration that charges into the future. With its unique profile, exceptional versatility, HEMI(R) power and rear-wheel drive performance, there is nothing else like it in the marketplace.

"Dodge Magnum delivers capability combined with the ride and handling of a sports car," said Darryl Jackson, Vice President, Dodge, DaimlerChrysler. "It's everything you want to do -- haul stuff, tow a boat, and go fast."

The Dodge Magnum represents Dodge's entry into a new category of vehicle transportation called sports tourer. Like the Chrysler Pacifica, this category of vehicles offers the right formula of proportions, packaging, performance and appearance that set them far apart from the competition.

"Dodge is connected across its product lines to driving enthusiasts, offering the most functional and fastest vehicles on the planet," continued Jackson. "In this ultimate performance form, the Dodge Magnum joins the lineup."

It has been more than 30 years since Dodge ruled the streets with HEMI(R) power and rear-wheel- drive performance. For 2004, Dodge unleashes power in an all-new proportion with the launch of its 2005 Dodge Magnum.

"Dodge Magnum is just one of the first new and exciting vehicles in our fast-paced launch plan," said Dieter Zetsche, President and CEO of the Chrysler Group. "All told, we'll bring twenty-five new vehicles to market in the next thirty-six months.

The legendary engine that powered Dodge's muscle cars of the 1960s has been re-engineered and reborn as a modern, high-performance, fuel-efficient and durable powerplant known as the all-new 5.7-liter HEMI V-8. With 340 horsepower and 390 lb.-ft. of torque, the Dodge Magnum RT can go from zero to 60 mph in just 6.3 seconds.

The HEMI-powered 2005 Dodge Magnum RT will be the first modern production vehicle in North America to feature cylinder deactivation when it goes on sale in the spring of 2004. The Chrysler Group Multi Displacement System (MDS) seamlessly turns off the fuel consumption in four cylinders of the 5.7-liter HEMI engine when V-8 power is not needed. This provides a world class combination of performance and fuel economy.

Dodge brings back rear-wheel drive to transfer all this power to the pavement through an all-new independent five-bar rear-drive layout. The Magnum powertrain and suspension systems work together for a precise balance of performance and handling, making optimum use of all four tire contact patches. For ultimate power distribution, an all-wheel drive version of the Dodge Magnum also will be available.

"High performance vehicles like the Dodge Magnum demand rear-wheel drive," said Zetsche. "Advances in stability systems and tire technology make this the right time to launch our rear-wheel drive, HEMI-powered Dodge Magnum."

Dodge Magnum delivers on the benefits of a sport-utility vehicle, with available all-wheel drive and up to 3,800 pounds of towing capacity, along with the ride and handling of a sports sedan. Magnum's unique package features an "extreme access" liftgate hinged forward off the d-pillar to open straight up instead of swinging out. The large 11.3 square foot opening can swallow a 27-inch TV. "The only way a car company can win, is by building great products with innovative features," said Zetche. "Dodge Magnum is the latest evidence that we are working hard to do just that."

DODGE MAGNUM STANDARD FEATURES
* 2.7-liter V-6 engine mated to a four-speed automatic transmission
* Rear-wheel drive configuration
* Short- and long-arm front suspension
* Independent five-bar multilink rear suspension
* 17-inch wheels and tires
* Rack and pinion steering
* Driver and front passenger adjustable lumbar support
* Tilt and telescoping steering column
* Outside temperature display
* 60/40 split folding rear seat with armrest
* Sentry Key(R) engine immobilizer system
* Advanced multi-stage driver and front passenger air bags
* Occupant Classification System
* Enhanced battery saver
* Solar control window glass
* 27.0 cu. ft. cargo volume
* Under-floor cargo storage compartment
* "Extreme access" liftgate

DODGE MAGNUM SXT FEATURES
In addition to Dodge Magnum standard features (listed above), the Magnum SXT model adds:

* 3.5-liter V-6 engine mated to a four-speed automatic transmission
* Available all-wheel drive with five-speed automatic transmission with
AutoStick
* 17-inch five-spoke aluminum wheels
* Four-wheel antilock brakes
* All-speed traction control
* Electronic Stability Program
* Emergency brake assist
* Eight-way power driver's seat
* Sunscreen privacy glass
* Cargo cover and storage net

DODGE MAGNUM RT FEATURES
In addition to Dodge Magnum SXT standard features (listed above), the Magnum RT model adds:

* 5.7-liter HEMI(R) V-8 engine mated to a five-speed automatic
transmission with AutoStick(R)
* Multi-displacement System (MDS)
* 6.3-second 0-60 mph
* 18-inch polished aluminum wheels
* Dual exhaust
* Performance brakes
* Leather interior trim
* Boston Acoustics six-speaker premium sound system with 288-watt digital
amplifier
* 160 mph speedometer

OPTIONAL FEATURES:
* Power passenger seat
* Heated driver and front passenger seats
* Dual zone automatic temperature control with infrared sensing
* Electronic vehicle information center with compass, Homelink(R)
universal transceiver, and trip computer
* Electrochromic interior rear view mirror
* Security alarm with panic button on key fob
* Front and rear side curtain air bags
* Air filtration
* Self-sealing tires
* UConnect(TM) hands free communication
* Power adjustable pedals
* GPS Navigation radio with integrated six-disc CD/MP3 player
* SIRIUS Satellite Radio(TM)
* Sunroof with express open and close feature
* Trailer tow capability up to 3,800 pounds
* Load-leveling shocks

the Heart and Soul of a Performance Car

Dodge Magnum was engineered to provide style, comfort, performance and utility in a sports wagon. The powertrain systems were optimized to deliver the best combination of these attributes.

Three engines and two transmissions were developed to provide the optimum powertrain options for Dodge Magnum SE, Magnum SXT and Magnum RT. The 2.7-liter DOHC V-6 provides the Magnum SE with outstanding combination of performance, fuel economy, quietness and durability. The Magnum SXT utilizes the 3.5-liter SOHC V-6 engine with improved performance, fitting a mid-level sports wagon. For the ultimate in performance, the Magnum RT comes standard with the 5.7-liter HEMI(R) V-8.

Transmissions were matched to the engines to provide the best combination of performance, smoothness and fuel economy. Two transmissions will be available in the Magnum vehicles. A passenger car Chrysler Group five-speed automatic will be offered for the first time ever in the Dodge Magnum. The five-speed automatic transmission will be controlled by Chrysler Group's AutoStick Driver-Selectable Range Control. This shifter accommodates fully-automatic shifting, or the driver can manually select a gear range. The rear-wheel drive Dodge Magnum SE and Magnum SXT will be equipped with a revised version of a proven Chrysler Group four-speed automatic transmission.

5.7-LITER HEMI(R) V-8

The modern HEMI engine offers more power and torque than any Chrysler Group vehicle passenger car engine since the legendary 426 HEMI of the '60s and '70s. Today's engine produces 340 hp @ 5000 rpm and 390 lb.-ft. of torque at 4000 rpm.

The new HEMI has been engineered to deliver outstanding performance, and also provide minimal noise, vibration, and harshness, smoothness and low emissions. Fuel economy has also been improved, but not at the expense of performance. Chrysler Group has developed and will be the first to offer to offer Multi-Displacement System (MDS) on a modern, large volume vehicle in North America.

"The Chrysler Group MDS seamlessly alternates between smooth, high fuel economy four-cylinder mode when less power is needed, and V-8 mode when more power from the 5.7L HEMI engine is in demand," said Eric Ridenour, Executive Vice President Product Development Chrysler Group. "This optimizes fuel economy when V-8 power is not needed, without sacrificing vehicle performance -- 2005 Chrysler 300C and Dodge Magnum RT owners will get the maximum benefit without any compromises."

Owners of the Dodge Magnum RT will receive the powerful benefit of the HEMI engine with the fuel economy that they would only expect from a smaller, less powerful engine.

"The MDS was part of the engine's original design," said Bob Lee, Vice President Powertrain Product Team Chrysler Group. "This resulted in a cylinder-deactivation system that is elegantly simple and completely integrated into the engine design. The benefits are fewer parts, maximum reliability and lower cost."

Some of the significant technologies enabling the Chrysler Group MDS are the speed of electronic controls, the sophistication of the algorithms controlling the systems and the use of Electronic Throttle Control ETC. The HEMI will be able to transition from eight cylinders to four in 40 milliseconds (0.040 seconds).

The HEMI engine with MDS has completed over 6.5 million customer- equivalent miles through Chrysler Group's development and durability testing. It is covered by the 7-Year/70,000-mile Limited Powertrain warranty.

The HEMI engine that powers the Dodge Magnum RT uses aluminum cylinder heads with hemispherical combustion chambers for outstanding airflow leading to high power and torque. Dual ignition (two spark plugs per cylinder) increases peak power and torque, reduces exhaust emissions, increases fuel economy and provides a smooth idle. The combustion system has been refined and the engine uses direct-mount accessories for quiet operation.

The engine is equipped with ETC which enables several of the technologies used to maximize vehicle smoothness, performance, safety and fuel economy.

3.5-LITER SOHC V-6 ENGINE

The 3.5-liter V-6 engine used to power the Magnum SXT is derived from versions of this engine used in prior Chrysler Group vehicles. An all-new active three-plenum intake manifold provides high power and torque over the entire operating band, with 250 hp at 6400 rpm and 250 lb.-ft. of torque at 4000rpm. This engine provides the perfect blend of performance economy.

A new active three-plenum intake manifold with electronically controlled manifold tuning valve and short-runner valves provides more power to the 3.5-liter. Additionally, ETC is used on this engine in the Dodge Magnum SXT.

2.7-LITER DOHC V-6 ENGINE

The 2.7L-liter V-6 has proven durable in a variety of Chrysler Group applications, and has been revised to power the Dodge Magnum SE. The engine has been improved to produce more low-speed torque at launch and during mid-range operation for strong performance in every-day driving. The engine produces 190 hp at 6400 rpm, and 190 lb.-ft. of torque at 4000 rpm, and it offers good fuel economy in a vehicle of this size.

Revisions on the 2.7-liter V-6 include an all-new active three-plenum intake manifold that is tuned for improved low-speed torque. In addition, the manifold includes a manifold tuning valve that further adds to low-speed torque during both part-throttle and wide-open throttle operation. This valve increases part-throttle torque eight to 10 percent in the primary driving range of 2100 to 3400 rpm, giving better performance in normal driving.

Another addition to the 2.7-liter for 2005 is the use of ETC. This maintains a more consistent vehicle speed on rolling grades when cruise control is active and interacts with the transmission control system to further minimize gear hunting under these conditions. It also tailors throttle response to pedal movement based on operating conditions. For example, a large pedal motion at a standing start may open the throttle less than the same pedal movement at highway speeds.

[-cont-]

mh_WRX

03-01-2004, 03:57 PM

FIVE-SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

The Chrysler Group's first five-speed automatic transmission for passenger cars provides a full range of transmission performance to match a great variety of driving styles, situations and road conditions.

"This transmission offers Chrysler Group customers many benefits. The five-speed gear range provides a better balance of performance and fuel economy than a four-speed automatic transmission," said Ridenour. "Fully adaptive electronic control of all shifting makes the powertrain feel responsive without harshness."

The transmission's physical attributes include compact size, robust design for high-torque rating and multiple features providing high efficiency. It also utilizes highly advanced electronic controls such as fully adaptive electronic control and Electronically Modulated Converter Clutch (EMCC).

This five-speed automatic transmission and with all-wheel drive applications is standard equipment with the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine on the 2005 Dodge Magnum RT and with all-wheel drive applications. It is a DaimlerChrysler transmission built at the Indiana Transmission Plant II in Kokomo, Indiana.

The ratio spread from first to the fifth was selected to minimize fuel consumption and reduce powertrain noise during cruising. An aggressive first-gear ratio provides excellent launch performance, and evenly spaced gear ratios provide smooth acceleration through the gears.

World-class efficiency is achieved through physical and electronic means. This transmission uses bearings to reduce friction in many locations where other transmissions may utilize bushings. The transmission also uses a unique scavenging system that removes oil spun off of the rotating parts by centrifugal force through strategically placed slots in the outside of the case. This saves energy that would be consumed by internal parts rotating in oil. Lubricating holes in the clutches are also positioned to promote quick passage of the transmission fluid through the discs, minimizing viscous losses due to trapped oil.

Fully adaptive electronic control of all shifting makes shifts very smooth. The system monitors the transmission as shifts occur and adjusts hydraulic pressure as needed. In so doing, the controls make the powertrain feel responsive without harshness. Driver recognition software alters shift points based on accelerator pedal usage, brake usage and lateral acceleration. This does not require a compromise between sporty and economical operation, nor is it a question of choosing one or the other.

The Torque Management System uses engine-torque modeling to facilitate smooth transmission shifting. Because of ETC, torque management is more sophisticated and covers a broad torque range.

The shift schedule adapts to individual driving style, driving situation and road conditions, altering shift points based on an accelerator pedal usage, brake usage, lateral acceleration, altitude and load on the car as a result of grades. Electronically controlled engine Torque Management System provides quick wide-open-throttle up shifts and quick two-step (4-2 or 3-1) kick-down shifts that are smoother than would be otherwise possible without this feature.

The transmission ratios are:
1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th Reverse
3.58 2.19 1.41 1.00 0.83 3.17
Through EMCC, torque converter clutch slippage is electronically modulated and provides for partial engagement in third, fourth or fifth gears. This results in improved shift feel, fuel economy, driveability and cooling. It can be used at lower speeds to provide benefits over a broad speed range. The system disengages as required to provide optimal performance.

FOUR-SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

The 42RLE four-speed automatic transmission is a variant of the 42LE automatic transmission used on previous Chrysler Group vehicles. It was developed for the Dodge Magnum and is included with both V-6 engines on rear-wheel drive models.

This four-speed automatic features fully adaptive electronic control of all shifting for smooth operation. Similar to the five-speed, it uses the Torque Management System to smoothly execute quick wide-open-throttle up shifts and down shifts. It also uses EMCC to electronically modulate torque converter lockup and provide for partial engagement in third or fourth gears. This results in improved shift feel, fuel economy, driveability and cooling.

The transmission ratios are:
1st 2nd 3rd 4th Reverse
2.84 1.57 1.00 0.69 2.21

http://www.theautochannel.com/N/F/news/2004/03/01/182741.1-lg.jpg

With an entirely new shape based on the company's all-new rear-drive architecture, the all-new 2005 Chrysler 300 features classic proportions. A long hood, short deck and dramatic profile complete with available 18-inch wheels give Chrysler 300 its stunning presence.

"The all-new 2005 Chrysler 300 is the new standard for American large cars," said Dieter Zetsche, President and CEO of the Chrysler Group. "And this is just one of nine new products we're bringing to market in calendar year 2004."

The Chrysler 300C model marks the return of the HEMI(R) engine to the Chrysler brand after nearly 50 years. The legendary engine design that powered Chrysler's 'letter series' cars in the 1950s has been re-engineered and reborn as a modern, high-performance, fuel-efficient and durable powerplant known as the all-new 5.7-liter HEMI V-8. With 340 horsepower and 390 lb.-ft. of torque, the Chrysler 300C can go from zero to 60 mph in just 6.3 seconds.

The 2005 Chrysler 300C will be the first modern volume production vehicle in North America to feature cylinder deactivation when it goes on sale in the spring of 2004. The Chrysler Group Multi-Displacement System (MDS) seamlessly turns off the fuel consumption in four cylinders of the 5.7-liter HEMI engine when V-8 power is not needed. This provides a world class combination of performance and fuel economy.

"Our new generation of vehicles will separate us from the pack," said Zetsche. "The MDS system on our HEMI V-8 will be a first for a modern volume car in North America and will deliver a 10- to 20-percent increase in fuel efficiency."

Transferring all this power to the pavement is Chrysler's new rear-drive architecture. Rear-wheel drive offers improved handling with front wheels steering and rear wheels driving. With tremendous advances in tire technology and electronic stability control, Chrysler brings back the rear-wheel drive passenger sedan.

"Rear-wheel drive is the right architecture for performance," added Zetsche. "With the advances that have been made in technology, for large cars rear-wheel drive guarantees the best performance and handling."

2005 Chrysler 300
CHRYSLER 300 STANDARD FEATURES
- 2.7-liter V-6 engine mated to a four-speed automatic transmission
- Rear-wheel drive configuration
- Short- and long-arm front suspension
- Independent five-bar multilink rear suspension
- 17-inch wheels and tires
- Rack and pinion steering
- Driver and front passenger adjustable lumbar support
- Eight-way power driver's seat
- Tilt and telescoping steering column
- Analog clock
- Outside temperature display
- 60/40 split folding rear seat with armrest
- Sentry Key(R) engine immobilizer system
- Advanced multi-state driver and front passenger air bags
- Occupant Classification System
- Enhanced battery saver
- Solar control window glass
- Chrysler Premium Care Warranty providing a free loaner for non-body shop
maintenance and repairs

CHRYSLER 300 TOURING STANDARD FEATURES
In addition to Chrysler 300 standard features (listed above), the 300 Touring adds:

- 3.5-liter V-6 engine mated to a four-speed automatic transmission
- Available all-wheel drive with five-speed automatic transmission with
AutoStick
- 17-inch seven-spoke aluminum wheels
- Fog lamps
- Four-wheel antilock brakes
- All-speed traction control
- Electronic Stability Program
- Emergency brake assist
- Leather trimmed seats, steering wheel and shift knob

CHRYSLER 300 LIMITED STANDARD FEATURES
In addition to Chrysler 300 Touring standard features (listed above), the 300 Limited model adds:

- 17-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels
- Power passenger seats
- Heated driver and front passenger seats
- Automatic Headlamps
- Express-up/down power front windows
- Dual zone automatic temperature control with infrared sensing
- Electronic vehicle information center with compass, Homelink(R)
universal transceiver, electrochromic interior rear view mirror and trip
computer
- Security alarm with panic button on key fob

CHRYSLER 300C STANDARD FEATURES
In addition to Chrysler 300 Limited standard features (listed above), the 300C model adds:

- 5.7-liter HEMI(R) V-8 engine mated to a five-speed automatic
transmission with AutoStick(R)
- Multi-displacement System (MDS)
- 6.3-second 0-60 mph
- 18-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels
- Dual exhaust
- Performance brakes
- Premium leather interior trim
- Patented tortoise shell style interior accents
- 17-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels
- Power passenger seat
- Heated driver and front passenger seats
- Automatic headlamps
- Express-up/down power front windows
- Dual zone automatic temperature control with infrared sensing
- Electronic vehicle information center with compass, Homelink(R)
universal transceiver, electrochromic interior rear view mirror and trip
computer
- Security alarm with panic button on key fob

OPTIONAL FEATURES
- Front and read side curtain air bags
- Air filtration
- Ultrasonic rear object detection
- Self-sealing tires
- UConnect(TM) hands free communication
- Power adjustable pedals
- Boston Acoustics eight-speaker premium sound system with 380-watt
digital amplifier
- GPS Navigation radio with integrated six-disc CD/MP3 player
- SIRIUS Satellite Radio(TM)
- Sunroof with express open and close feature
- Genuine California walnut wood interior accents
- Xenon High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps with high-pressure
washers

[-cont-]

mh_WRX

03-01-2004, 03:57 PM

Chrysler Designers Create a Classic Today

Simply stated, the Chrysler 300 signals a dramatic new design direction that will make everything else on the road seem ordinary.

"We wanted to return to the proud, powerful lines that once made American automobiles the envy of the entire industry, but do so in a thoroughly modern way," said Trevor Creed, Senior Vice President of Design, DaimlerChrysler. "At the same time, we identified a dramatic new design direction that continues the Chrysler brand's long-standing tradition of innovative design."

The striking new proportions of the 300 were made possible by the decision to move the next generation of Chrysler sedans to rear-drive, after more than 10 years of award-winning 'cab forward' front-drive designs. Used widely among premium and luxury brands, the rear-drive configuration gave company designers the freedom to sculpt a longer hood and noble proportions, while maintaining a spacious interior package.

"Modern elegance and innovation have always been hallmarks of the Chrysler brand, and the 300 illustrates those values in a very strong and proud way, just as the first 'letter series' C-300 did nearly 50 years ago," noted Creed.

A NOBLE PRESENCE

From the front, the Chrysler 300 will not be mistaken for any other automobile on the road. The 300 wears the most elegant execution of the Chrysler 'face' yet -- the grille is tall and bold, inspired by the memorable V-10 powered Chronos concept car that made its debut in 1998. The newly rendered Chrysler wings flow seamlessly into the grille header and contain the gold seal of the brand, providing a proud and instantly recognizable design cue.

The headlamp shape supports the new face of Chrysler. Interior components of headlamps and taillamps have been given the attention of fine jewelry. The headlamp on the Chrysler 300C model employs a projector low beam lamp for world-class lighting performance contained in a unique circular lamp bezel which calls attention to itself because of its design and precise execution. The inboard circular shape in the bezel is smaller in size and contains a conventional high beam packaged under a park and turn lamp. The circular theme is carried into the taillamp as well with a prominent circular shape containing the stop function at the top of the lamp. This lamp also has a unique horizontal stripe graphic delineating turn and back-up functions and pays homage to the Chrysler 300 from the late Fifties.

Special attention was given to the design of the exterior mirrors and door handles. The mirrors were shaped in the wind tunnel to maximize aerodynamic efficiencies and minimize the mass of the structural components to achieve a light and unobtrusive appearance. The chrome or body color mirror head supports the upscale appearance objective. The door handles as well are a new "pull style" design which look substantial, feel good in the hand, and add to the overall upscale appearance of the car.

The body is finished off by a handsome body color and bright molding that carries on to the front fender. On the Chrysler 300C this molding is integrated into a badge that carries the name 300 with the word "HEMI(R)" underneath it, letting everyone know that there is something special under the hood.

Large tires on available 18-inch wheels suggest ample reserves of power. The large 10-spoke rims leave plenty of room for serious brake hardware. Chromed dual exhaust pipes on the 300C model announce the long-awaited return to HEMI V-8 power and performance after nearly 50 years for a Chrysler car.

"The new Chrysler 300 embodies what we call a holistic approach to design," said Creed. "Every line, every angle and every proportion must not only work together inside and out, but provide a visual promise for the rest of the automobile, including the driving experience."

HANDCRAFTED INTERIOR FEEL

In keeping with this holistic approach, Chrysler 300's interior continues the noble, proud themes of the exterior, with a more upright windshield and seating position which offers a spacious feel. The seating position itself has been raised two-and-a-half inches higher than the Chrysler 300M to enhance the command-of-the-road feel and aid in easy ingress and egress. Distinctive materials and textures provide a handcrafted feel and provide an upscale feeling to the interior.

"Chrysler 300's beauty is more than skin deep," said Creed. "We paid a lot of attention to the small details, individual appointments and fits, which together convey a feeling of richness to both the driver and passengers."

Tortoise shell, on the Chrysler 300C model for example, is used on the steering wheel rim, shifter knob and inside door pulls, complemented by chrome door handles and other accents inspired by the 1998 Chrysler Chronos show car.

Evolving the design seen on the current award-winning Chrysler 300M, a four-gauge instrument cluster with light silver faces and chrome trim rings convey a precision appearance setting the new standard for all Chrysler cars. The center stack of the instrument panel contains an analog clock and highlights the new HVAC controls and radios which were designed with minimal gaps and efforts to achieve a precise feel and world class appearance objectives. A new premium radio with an integrated navigation system is also available. The center stack area is available in a variety of finishes depending on the model, and includes satin silver on the Chrysler 300C. The centerpiece of the center console is the shift knob finished in available premium leather and tortoise shell which highlights the new gated shifter and five speed automatic transmission for greater driving enjoyment.

A two-tone color treatment on the interior featuring light colored lower surfaces conveys spaciousness and gives the Chrysler 300 a sporty, yet opulent feel inside. The rear seats have a center folding armrest with integral cup holder, and are configured with a 60/40 split for added versatility.

"Just like the all-new 2004 Pacifica and Crossfire, the Chrysler 300 embodies the very essence of the Chrysler brand, while evoking the proud lines that once made the American automobile such an icon," said Creed.

The Chrysler brand is continuing its rapid-fire succession of innovative new product introductions that will solidify its standing as the leader in engineering and value. Hot on the heels of the all-new 2004 Chrysler Pacifica sports tourer and the 2004 Chrysler Crossfire sports coupe, the launch of the all-new 2005 Chrysler 300 underscores the brand's renewed commitment to quality, performance and value.

"The launch of the Chrysler 300 is the return of the great American car," said Jeff Bell, Vice President of Chrysler, DaimlerChrysler. "With the Pacifica, Crossfire, and now the Chrysler 300, the Chrysler brand will offer a tremendous choice of high quality, beautifully designed and affordable products."

The Chrysler 300's striking new proportions combine classic American design and power with proven DaimlerChrysler technology. Marking the brand's return to a rear-drive, V-8 powered automobile for the first time in more than a decade, the Chrysler 300C model pays homage, albeit in a very contemporary way, to the first "letter series" Chrysler 300s, which combined performance and prestige like no other brand at the time.

"The Chrysler 300 combines elegance, power and confidence at an exceptional value," added Bell. "The 300 is proof that we will continue to build vehicles that people will aspire to own and be proud to drive."

Following earlier introductions such as the innovative Chrysler PT Cruiser, Sebring Convertible and Town & Country minivan, the Chrysler brand continues to post significant gains, both in sales and reputation. Sales have nearly quadrupled since 1991 (from 130,000 to 464,000 in 2003), more than any other American automotive brand.

C-daleRidr

03-01-2004, 04:23 PM

I still like the Magnum. Prolly wouldn't buy one because it's a tank, but that would be part of the fun.

mh_WRX

03-01-2004, 04:31 PM

BTW, sorry for the multiple post, it was a long article.

Redneck Ricer

03-01-2004, 04:54 PM

Plus, from what I have heard, you can fit 24's on the 300C. can you picture that thing rolling down the road, all black, tinted, with 24" spinnas on it :lol:

mh_WRX

03-01-2004, 05:38 PM

Does anyone else think the new 300C looks like the one from the movie "The Car"?

plunk10

03-02-2004, 08:00 AM

I may end up with a used hemi Magnum someday, when they depreciate as fast as any other american car. it'll make a sweet beater/kid-hauler/grocery-getter :devil:

besides, the hemi is fastAr

MudBoogers

03-02-2004, 10:39 AM

"Does anyone else think the new 300C looks like the one from the movie "The Car"?"....

...exactly what I thought, when I first saw it as well....if it were black, I might start having flashbacks to that movie....

subyfanatic

03-02-2004, 09:49 PM

Oh yeah, now that's what I'm talking about! 2006 Porsche 911 Turbo.

http://www.thecarconnection.com/images/gallery/7788_image.jpg
http://www.thecarconnection.com/images/gallery/7789_image.jpg

Caught here is Porsche's upcoming 911 Turbo. Taking the current 3.6-liter flat six bi-turbo, modifying and tweaking it a bit to 3.8 liters with 450 horsepower, the new turbo is rumored to do 0-60 mph in just 3.7 seconds.

Aggressive styling with huge air scoops makes this Turbo stand out among the other 911s. And clearly visible in these photos is the new retro-styled circular headlamps that all 911s will soon be sporting.

WOOOOOT!!!!

subyfanatic

03-02-2004, 09:53 PM

2006 Mercedes MLV

http://www.thecarconnection.com/images/gallery/7790_image.jpg

This is no ordinary M-Class. Referred to as the MLV, this long-wheelbase version of the next generation M-Class measures in over 204 inches long and sports three rows of seating.

The MLV will have unique sheetmetal and an air suspension as standard, with a pair of sunroofs offered as an option.

subyfanatic

03-02-2004, 09:57 PM

This looks promising, does look better than the current 7er.
http://www.thecarconnection.com/images/gallery/7764_image.jpg

BMW is moving ahead with their scheduled facelift on the 7-Series, and we expect the freshened Bimmer to be at dealerships as early as next summer.

The exterior of BMW's flagship will now be reshaped into a softer, less controversial look: the most visible changes will be the all-new headlights and the wider and more curved twin-kidney grille. Revised bumpers front and rear will round the facelift.

Under the hood, we expect the 4.4-liter engine to be tweaked to 4.8 liters, reaching an output of nearly 400 horsepower. And rumors are circulating of a modified and higher-output 6.0-liter V-12.

BMW hopes that these changes, as well as others including modifications to the iDrive System, will breathe new life into their controversial flagship.

http://www.thecarconnection.com/images/gallery/7765_image.jpg

Ghostrider600

03-02-2004, 10:06 PM

Originally posted by subyfanatic
2006 Mercedes MLV

http://www.thecarconnection.com/images/gallery/7790_image.jpg

^Dodge Magnum platform??

P2x

03-02-2004, 10:08 PM

Originally posted by subyfanatic
This looks promising, does look better than the current 7er.

I think it looks very bland and boring.

Alpha1

03-02-2004, 10:50 PM

http://www.autoweek.com/specials/2004_geneva/alfavisconti/images/IMG_0221.jpg
http://www.autoweek.com/specials/2004_geneva/alfavisconti/images/IMG_0219.jpg
http://www.autoweek.com/specials/2004_geneva/alfavisconti/images/1.jpg
http://www.dinside.no/km_bilde/5/11705.jpg
http://www.dinside.no/km_bilde/1/11701.jpg

This new Alfa is beautiful, looks like the VW D1 concept which is car that VW should have brought to market prior to the Phaeton. Never the less, this is the direction Subaru needs to go with the forthcoming large car based off the new 7 pax wagon platform.

JaySee

03-02-2004, 11:04 PM

Originally posted by P2x
I think it looks very bland and boring.

I think it looks like a Japanese Luxury Sedan. BLEGH. Current 7 is sweet.

SubaruImpreza_power

03-03-2004, 07:11 PM

http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&u=/040302/481/ge13103021625

Women like two-tone color cars?

rexxer

03-03-2004, 07:32 PM

Does that mean Volvo has to change the symbol on their cars to be the "women" sign and not the "men" sign???

Eby

03-03-2004, 07:37 PM

That door makes a lot of sense, anyone over 5 feet tall will need to crawl in. Good luck getting out in any marginally tight parking spot. Women. :rolleyes:

:p

Coati

03-03-2004, 07:38 PM

http://us.news2.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/ap/20040302/capt.ge13103021625.switzerland_motor_show_ge131.jp g

It looks like a Saab Sonnet and an AMC Eagle had a baby.
http://volvo1800pictures.com/shows/bromley/Saab%20Sonnet%20III.jpg
http://www.rit.edu/~cjq2155/img/side2.jpg

Alpha1

03-03-2004, 10:12 PM

http://a332.g.akamai.net/f/332/936/12h/www.edmunds.com/media/2003/frankfurt/05.chrysler.300c/05.chrysler.300c.f34.500.jpg

300C Touring, chromed out or Magnum, blacked out trim work.

coolbluelb

03-04-2004, 01:49 AM

a 300C wagon? Is this going to be available in the States?

SubaruImpreza_power

03-04-2004, 09:40 AM

Crap I posted in the wrong part...

That Yahoo Volvo thing should of been posted here :rolleyes:

Jon [in CT]

03-04-2004, 12:32 PM

One of the most interesting concept cars displayed last week at the Melbourne Auto Show in Australia was the Toyota Sportivo.The Sportivo Coupe was created by a young but experienced design team at Toyota Style Australia, headed by 29 year-old Nick Hogios, who worked on the award-winning BA Falcon before moving to Toyota.

Hogios and the team designed the eye-catching coupe with extensive use of glass panels and unusual dihedral doors that hinge upwards instead of outwards. The vehicle was designed entirely by CAD (Computer Aided Design) and went straight from CAD to prototype tooling, bypassing industry-standard clay models.

The Sportivo Coupe concept is based on the same Toyota underpinnings as the Camry, but has one significant difference to the locally built Camry platform - all-wheel drive.

Australian engineers replaced all the mechanical components to accommodate a manual gearbox and most of the drivetrain is adapted from the Toyota RAV4, including the five-speed gearbox, differential and driveshafts.

Powering the Sportivo Coupe is a forced induction version of the 2.4-litre [2AZ-FE] engine introduced with the Australian-built Camry that was launched in 2002. Melbourne-based Automotive Performance Solutions installed a Garrett GT25 turbocharger that features the latest water-cooled technology and roller bearings for faster "spool up" response and improved durability.

As such, power output has increased by 60 percent from 112kW to 180kW @ 5500rpm. Torque is 305Nm @ 4500rpm, an increase of 55 per cent over the standard engine's 218Nm.

A flat torque curve provides strong response throughout the rev range, with 90 per cent of peak torque available from 2500 to 6000rpm. A custom fabricated exhaust manifold leads into a free-flow performance exhaust with dual outlets.

PBR International, which makes the brakes for high-performance cars around the world such as the Chevrolet Corvette, produced massive 380mm diameter ventilated and cross drilled rotors and six-piston calipers for the front and 355mm rotors and four-piston calipers for the rear.Some unit conversions:
180kW = 241 hp
305Nm = 225 lb-ft
380mm = 15 inches
355mm = 14 inches

The electronics on this concept have a "Big Brother" aspect that is apparently controversial. Details can be found at:
http://www.webwombat.com.au/motoring/news_reports/melb04_2.htm
http://www.wired.com/news/autotech/0,2554,62503,00.html?tw=wn_tophead_4

BA-B4

03-05-2004, 02:40 AM

looks like the new incoming mazda6 hatchback styles have the same problem.

http://www.mazda6club.com/forums/read.php?TID=15895

SUBE555

03-05-2004, 03:35 AM

Hey, good catch.

I think that proves it's beyond a cosmetic thing.

Oh well, if that little bit will do a better job at saving my life from another motorist, so be it.

Kostamojen

03-05-2004, 04:30 AM

It has nothing to do with saving your life. All it has to do with is decreasing the cost of 5mph bumper accidents to get better ratings. Its the crumple zones and reinforced cabins that save lives, not stupid bumpers.

SCRAPPYDO

03-05-2004, 09:37 AM

you are correct sir, the bumpers are there to protect that beautiful sheet metal so the nazi bastard insurance companies wont have to fix them. It has absolutely nothing to do with safety. Its all thanks to the uber powerful insurance company lobbyists..

:furious: may they all have rashes where they cant reach them :furious:

SCRAPPYDO
stephen

SUBE555

03-05-2004, 11:06 AM

Well would you rather have your rates doubled to have a good looking bumper by some people's standards?

Ghostrider600

03-05-2004, 01:06 PM

Originally posted by SUBE555
Well would you rather have your rates doubled to have a good looking bumper by some people's standards?

Your rates wouldn't double, and on the contrary, do you think these ugly bumpers will *reduce* your costs? I doubt it.

Also, IIHS has just nailed Acura for tweaking their bumpers designs specifically to beat the IIHS tests--Acura put a special pad right in the middle where the IIHS conducts its bumper-bash tests. IIHS discovered this, and moved the test area outside the bumper, crumpling it.

BUT, the big point is this--IIHS misrepresents some of its findings, namely the bumper bashes, as being pro-consumer when all they're really doing is being pro-insurance company.

Acura TSX and Chevrolet Malibu are worst: The TSX sustained the heaviest damage in the rear-into-pole test because the bumper was too weak to protect the car body.

"The bumper couldn't keep the damage away from the trunk and rear body panel," Lund says. "The lid alone cost more than $500 to straighten and refinish. The bumper is supposed to take the hit so the car's fenders and body don't have to."

Another problem is that the TSX's bumpers are nearly flush against the body -- a design favored by some automotive stylists.

"That design may please the styling department, but it's terrible for consumers because it puts expensive sheet metal and safety components such as the headlamps closer to the point of impact in a routine fender-bender."

Yes, a routine fender bender where, if it goes above your $250 or $500 deductible is going to come out of the massive pockets of the insurance company. Oh, poor baby multi-million-dollar profit company. :rolleyes:

Manufacturers need to pay more attention to what it costs owners ((editorial: owners? or the ins co?)) to repair damage in minor collisions. A lot of the damage to these cars could have been avoided if the bumpers had been designed to absorb the energy of a minor impact."

A federal bumper standard used to require no damage in the flat-barrier impacts. A 1981 Ford Escort withstood all four of the Institute's bumper tests with no damage at all.

w00t a 1981 ESCORT!! SIGN me UP!!
http://home.quixnet.net/~mbhoag/my81escoprt.jpg

Man, LOVE those bumpers, and only $0 cost in a flat-bump!! :rolleyes:
---

Safety is a matter wholly independent of how much a stylish bumper costs the IIHS' partners.

SUBE555

03-05-2004, 01:27 PM

Ghost, well if they only test for that one specific spot on the TSX, and you get hit in that 'other spot' you're screwed anyhow. And if it's enough to surpass your deductible, you'll get slapped with a rate hike possibly as a liability to them. So I'd rather have the bumpers safe and secure through and through than have a ruined bumper for every small infraction. Your rates may not double, but I'd rather have insurance-friendly ratings, it helps you and me in the pocketbook lest you really think about it. :rolleyes:

I'm not saying they can't be designed to look better, but I'm not going to really complain when it's a semi-universal thing.

Beaverboy

03-05-2004, 02:28 PM

This is nothing new..

http://bmw.hlabs.spb.ru/pics/history/e21.jpg
Euro-spec bumpers on a BMW e21. Front and rear are made from 3 peices of polished aluminum. Protection in a front or rear low speed impact is nill... but damn they look good.

http://tedfelix.com/Keith/320i/bimmer.jpg
The bumpers mandated for the North American market were heavy 1/4" formed aluminum on hydraulic shocks with rubber accordian trim, front and rear.

Coati

03-05-2004, 02:36 PM

My '82 Scirocco had bumpers so tough I could push other cars with them without visible effect, and once was rear-ended on the freeway by a Lincoln with no effect. Those were some tough, ugly bumpers.:)

Jon [in CT]

03-05-2004, 04:51 PM

Does anyone else find it strange that Automobile magazine has given its "2004 Automobile of the Year" award to a 2003 Mitsubishi Evolution? According to the article (http://www.automobilemag.com/awards/0402_lancer/index.html):The Automobile of the Year award honors, variously, the most significant, the most groundbreaking, or simply the most fun-to-drive vehicle of a given model year.As far as I can tell, all Evos sold so far in the US have been 2003 model year cars (i.e. the 10th position of the VIN has always been a "3"). Anyone know otherwise?

sooberoo

03-05-2004, 06:28 PM

Let it go......Let it go.....

Accept the new bumpers for what they are!:p

Alleggerita

03-05-2004, 06:31 PM

How to get from a great looking car to an ugly POS.

Thank your insurance company in conjuction with protectionist twerps that try to support an ailing American auto industries. And yes the Canadians are even worse, likely contributing to larger bumpers on North American cars, as they didn't rescind the original 5mph bumper standard as the US did.

Originally posted by Beaverboy
This is nothing new..

http://bmw.hlabs.spb.ru/pics/history/e21.jpg
Euro-spec bumpers on a BMW e21. Front and rear are made from 3 peices of polished aluminum. Protection in a front or rear low speed impact is nill... but damn they look good.

http://tedfelix.com/Keith/320i/bimmer.jpg
The bumpers mandated for the North American market were heavy 1/4" formed aluminum on hydraulic shocks with rubber accordian trim, front and rear.

JaySee

03-05-2004, 08:13 PM

What's this X-Factor that a Evo has and a STi does not? I can name some Y and Z factors that the STi has that the Evo doesn't. DCCD and a 6-Speed.

Jon [in CT]

03-05-2004, 10:40 PM

Originally posted by JaySee
What's this X-Factor that a Evo has and a STi does not? I think it has something to do with an extra X-chromosome so ardently desired by girly men.

subyfanatic

03-06-2004, 12:07 AM

The X-Factor couldn't possibly be the glass transmission in the EVO? :rolleyes:

Foxbat

03-06-2004, 11:19 AM

Originally posted by Ghostrider600
Also, IIHS has just nailed Acura for tweaking their bumpers designs specifically to beat the IIHS tests--Acura put a special pad right in the middle where the IIHS conducts its bumper-bash tests. IIHS discovered this, and moved the test area outside the bumper, crumpling it.

Acura wasn't the first one get caught doing this. Saturn was the first one caught doing exact same thing last year.

coolbluelb

03-06-2004, 11:48 AM

Originally posted by Ghostrider600

Yes, a routine fender bender where, if it goes above your $250 or $500 deductible is going to come out of the massive pockets of the insurance company. Oh, poor baby multi-million-dollar profit company. :rolleyes:

For what it is worth, insurance companies are lucky to make any money on the insurance side of the business (premiums paid vs. claims paid). Where an insurance company makes it's profits is in the investment of it's non-reserve monies.

Ghostrider600

03-06-2004, 09:16 PM

Knock the Evo if you will (as you must, being a Subaru forum), but though I didn't have much seat time in either, the little I did have showed that the Evo is certainly the winner in the "Fun to Drive" category.

The STi is faster, yes, has more gadgets, but lacks the knife-like handling of the Evo, which, for me, is more fun than wrestling the STi around a tight track or AutoX.

reks

03-06-2004, 10:35 PM

The Evo might be your winner in the fun to drive category.
Certainly other people prefer the STi.

People on the Subaru forums don't have to knock the Evo. However, everybody has an opinion and you're more likely to run into a Subaru fan here than an Evo fan.

Dave G

03-07-2004, 06:44 AM

An insurer that is properly run/managed makes plenty of profit on the "insurance side" (premium collected vs claims paid).
Its the insurers that are poorly run which end up in financial trouble.

I've worked in many aspects of the insurance industry for years, and I am still amazed at the crazy manner in which many insurers operate. I've been lucky enough to be in positions to advise some insurers on how they can be more profitable, and how to limit wasting of funds. On many occasions, the advice was followed by blank stares from these executives, because to put it in the simplest terms, many high level folks at insurance companies are idiots.

At most insurance company middle management levels, most of those persons are even more dumb than the category of "idiot" could contemplate. Often the real brains are at the lowest levels.

As for claims vs premium, etc, good underwriting is one of the keys. A huge problem in the industry is that underwriters often fail to understand the claims side. Very few underwriters ever spent any time handling claims in a claims office, so they fail to understand the details. Additionally, very few underwriters are ever willing to listen to the claims folks, so the problems compound over and over again.
Ditto for agents and brokers.

For insurers to make money on the "insurance side", the insurers need to make sure that EVERYBODY in the entire loop has spent time in a claims office. Because until you have spent time in a claims office, you cannot possibly understand the big picture. Additionally, most claims folks don't do the best possible job, because they fail to understand the way the law works in their arena. I could talk on and on about this topic, but I won't...

Ghostrider600

03-08-2004, 02:21 AM

http://www.wired.com/news/autotech/0,2554,62503,00.html

Note the last line too...

I'm Sorry, Dave, You're Speeding By Patrick Gray

http://www.wired.com/news/autotech/0,2554,62503,00.html

02:00 AM Mar. 04, 2004 PT

MELBOURNE, Australia -- At the Melbourne Motor Show last week, Toyota unveiled a controversial concept car that would very closely monitor, and in some cases restrict, the actions of its driver -- including refusing to turn on.

To drive the sleek Toyota Sportivo, a driver would have to enter a memory card into its console to turn on the engine. Based on the driver's experience and driving record, the car adjusts its engine performance, cutting back for motorists with less experience or spotty driving records.

"Drivers of the future who have grown up in an electronic age of heavy remote speed camera enforcement measures and electronic tollway charging systems are accepting of new technology that assists their lifestyle as well as monitoring it," a Toyota press release about the car says. "It is essential for drivers to be fully and accurately informed in this era of increasing electronic surveillance."

While some say a car that would second-guess its drivers' abilities might have limited appeal, Toyota says the purpose of the electronic logging and authentication isn't to snoop, but to inform.

"What we're suggesting is the driver's license in the future will be a smartcard, and it's embedded with all the data required to operate the car more safely and efficiently," Toyota project manager Paul Beranger said.

Toyota said it doesn't have plans to put the concept car on the road. The carmaker built the prototype to highlight Australia's local car-designing talent. But the vehicle does introduce some concepts that would shake up governments and vehicle bureaucracies.

With the Sportivo, there wouldn't be separate numbers for the license plate on the car and the license in a driver's wallet. Instead, a screen on the car's rear bumper would display a number linked to the driver's license, which would be encoded on the smartcard.

One advantage would be that the actions of drivers would be tied exclusively to their licenses, not the car. Since at any given moment many drivers on the road don't own the cars they're driving (because they either rented or borrowed the vehicle), the electronic logging would allow motor vehicle departments to charge the driver for speeding violations, parking tickets and unpaid toll charges -- not the owner.

"It's ultimately not the owner who's responsible for the car when it's on the road, it's the driver," Beranger said. "If the car is caught for speeding, the ticket goes to the driver, not the owner."

The driver-based record keeping could also change laws for young motorists. In Australia, new drivers are automatically placed on probation for three years when they get their license. Because of the new logging capabilities introduced in the Sportivo, the probationary period could be based on the number of hours behind the wheel, much like the way airplane pilots are licensed.

The power output of the engine can be restricted according to the license grade, and drivers whose licenses have been suspended would be unable to operate the car at all.

In addition, one Australian state, Victoria, requires vehicles to have alcohol breath analyzers tied to an engine lock for some serious and repeat drunk drivers. And Australia's federal government has considered a universal ID, called the Australia Card. The proposed card would store a wide array of personal information, and Australians would have to carry it at all times to obtain employment, health care and government services.

While the Australian senate twice turned down the proposal and public outcry killed the idea, privacy organizations say the smartcards needed to operate future cars look suspiciously like the universal IDs.

"We have a problem with the smartcard licenses because they will not stop with just dealing with speedsters," said Irene Graham, executive director of civil liberties organization Electronic Frontiers Australia. "They're proposing that the new licenses will be used over the Internet to identify people when dealing with government departments. We are concerned that businesses will come up with all sorts of reasons for identifying yourself."

While Toyota views its concept car as nothing more than a showcase for cool gizmos, its electronic logging functions would creep into everyday life, giving more surveillance powers to the government, critics say.

Still, the car is packed with more-conventional, less-ominous gizmos. The same smartcard would store each driver's preferences for seat position, mirror angels and favorite radio stations. Its speedometer reads signals from speed signs on the road and displays the speed limit in comparison to the car's velocity. Phone and GPS devices let the driver keep track of friends' whereabouts. And it would sport a 240-horsepower engine.

The Sportivo would be equipped with all-wheel-drive and a high-performance PBR braking system, putting it on par with Japanese turbo rockets like Subaru's WRX.

Yay, I want the Sportivo with the "Orwell" package.... :eek:

SUBE555

03-08-2004, 02:43 AM

There is a few good ideas out there, but we all know governments would step over the line using their technology.

Yogi29035

03-08-2004, 10:02 AM

Originally posted by Ghostrider600

Yay, I want the Sportivo with the "Orwell" package.... :eek: [/B]

:lol:

mh_WRX

03-08-2004, 10:24 AM

Dodge plans rwd Charger

By Rick Kranz
Automotive News / March 08, 2004

Dodge will add a full-sized rear-wheel-drive sedan to its lineup next year, company sources said.

The car draws inspiration from the Dodge Charger muscle car of the late 1960s, said a person familiar with the program who spoke on condition that he not be identified. He said the car likely will be called the Charger.

Spokesman Jason Vines declined comment, citing the company's policy not to talk about future products.

Sources said the sedan will be developed off the automaker's rwd LX platform, which is shared by the 2005 Chrysler 300 sedan and the Dodge Magnum wagon.

At the Geneva auto show last week, Trevor Creed, Chrysler group's chief designer, hinted that such a vehicle was planned.

"We will be looking at a very sporty version of this platform for Dodge," he said.

"However, we will not do badge engineering anymore. You will not see a Dodge version" that shares sheet metal with the Chrysler 300.

He added: "You've got to have a four-door, (but) there's no market for a coupe."

The 300 and Magnum go on sale this spring. They share about 20 percent of their parts, in terms of value, with the Mercedes-Benz C and E classes.

Hemi is the centerpiece

The 340-hp 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 is the centerpiece of the LX models. While the Magnum has drawn favorable comments from the automotive press, some Dodge dealers are worried about marketing a wagon without a full-sized family sedan.

Intrepid production ended last summer, and dealers have been pressing the automaker for a sedan.

The Dodge sedan will be the third derivative based on the LX platform. At least one other LX derivative is planned, said a Chrysler group insider. In Chrysler parlance, LX derivatives are defined as models with extensive sheet metal differences.

Meanwhile, the company is studying whether to develop a police package for one of the LX cars. Representatives of the California Highway Patrol and Michigan State Police have driven a car with the package, said Burke Brown, chief engineer for the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Magnum.

"It is a natural, isn't it? We'll talk about that in a while," said Brown, who was interviewed last month at a Chrysler press event in Palm Springs, Calif. The law enforcement agencies "have shown intense interest in what we are doing with the chassis."

While awd will be optional on the LX cars, he said neither agency has shown interest in that option.

gumball

03-08-2004, 11:27 AM

then why not use the same, 5mph safe bumpers in other markets as well? isn't it more costly to have 2 diff. bumpers on their cars. weird. or why not design the car aesthetics around the 5mph bumpers from the start? Is this why the USDM Legacy is longer than the JDM?

Beaverboy

03-08-2004, 01:28 PM

Originally posted by gumball
then why not use the same, 5mph safe bumpers in other markets as well? isn't it more costly to have 2 diff. bumpers on their cars. weird. or why not design the car aesthetics around the 5mph bumpers from the start? Is this why the USDM Legacy is longer than the JDM?
Because they're often so much heavier and complex (bumper shocks, supports, layers of foam & plastic, etc), it's probably cheaper to build two sizes.

They don't design the cars around them from the start because we're not the center of the universe ;)

Yes.

mh_WRX

03-08-2004, 01:39 PM

The ultimate driving minivan with zoom zoom?

By Edward Lapham
Automotive News / March 08, 2004

Mazda and BMW product planners have their work cut out for them as they try to sell vehicles that fit their respective brand images in a segment with a bland reputation.

After denying for years that BMW could ever sell a minivan, the company's top brass has sanctioned development of two vehicles that for all intents and purposes will be pretty much like minivans. Top management hasn't approved yet, but that should come this year.

After all, remember what BMW said about SUVs just a few years ago: There would never be a BMW SUV. Now they have two SUV-like crossovers, the X5 and X3.

You can bet that the new minivan-like people movers will have excellent handling and good power, perhaps even built on the X3 and X5 platforms. And they will be pricey.

Still, the timing is odd. Consumer surveys report that fewer consumers are inclined to buy minivans these days and there already seem to be at least 31 minivan flavors, from Vanilla to Rocky Road.

Mazda has a similar dilemma. At the Geneva auto show, the automaker showed the MX-Flexa concept vehicle, which some might describe as a small crossover minivan. It's a cute little utilitarian vehicle designed to haul people and their stuff. Mazda execs plan to show the concept at the New York auto show in April because they want to see if there might be a market for it in North America. The European production version will be unveiled at the Paris show in September.

Here's the rub: Mazda must figure out if a vehicle with a third row of seats can have enough zoom-zoom DNA so that it won't dilute the brand image. In Asia and Europe, the Mazda image is less dependent on the zoom-zoom gene. But in North America, the RX8, Miata, Mazda6 and even the Mazda3 have been positioned to exude fun, performance and value. It might not be so easy with the MX-Flexa.

There is still defining work to be done before either the BMW or Mazda vehicles hit dealerships in North America.

But I guess that's why good product planners get the big bucks.

Oldnslow

03-08-2004, 01:43 PM

Where is the center of the universe?

mh_WRX

03-08-2004, 02:01 PM

http://www.theautochannel.com/N/F/news/2004/03/07/183885.1-lg.jpg
The DC ‘GO’ is third in the series of presentation of styling and prototyping skills of DC Design at the Geneva Motor Show, following the positive reviews that they received for the DC’ Infidel’ and the DC ‘Gaia’.

DC Design’s latest baby is powered by the much acclaimed Noble M12 GTR 3.

The DC ‘GO’ aptly named given is an effort by DC Design to provide a very modern, svelte new look to compliment the brilliant performance of the car.

The exterior is very sharp, a mix between classic cues and fresh angles. The interior is very geometric, minimalism covered in sporty Alacantra.

This design is representative of a typical sports car construction of this genre of a body skin mounted on a tubular frame. The option of material for the body panels can be metal, FRP or carbon fibre based on the performance and the price segment of the car.

The DC ‘GO’ is being showcased as part of DC Design’s international design portfolio at the 74th Geneva International Motor Show.

Engine Alloy Duratec V6 2.5litres. Mounted mid transverse. Four overhead camshafts. Four valves per cylinder. Electronic fuel management. Twin-Garrett, T25 water-cooled turbochargers.Air to air intercooler. Max power 310bhp. Max torque 320lb/ft.

Brakes Front: 330 x 30mm ventilated cross-drilled discs, alloy 4 piston AP racing calipers. Rear: 330 x 26mm ventilated cross-drilled discs, alloy 4 piston AP racing calipers. Dual circuit. Servo-assisted. All stainless steel brake lines.

Suspension Front: Double non-equal length wishbone design. Alloy uprights Bilstein dampers. Rear: Double wishbone. Alloy uprights. Bilstein dampers.

Steering Rack and pinion 2.5 turns lock to lock Power-assisted.

Wheels & Tyres Front: Aluminium alloy 8.5" x 18"- 225/40 ZR 18 Rear: Aluminium alloy 10" x 18" - 265/35 ZR 18

2004-03-04 Please quote Autoindex.org if You use this news article!

Beaverboy

03-08-2004, 02:03 PM

Which one? There are several billion, me-thinks.. I'm one of them. :D

C-daleRidr

03-08-2004, 06:10 PM

I'd like to have something that rides a razor's edge for a fun third car, but I'm not sure about the EVO's daily driveability.

And the EVO has historically been higher on the fun to drive scale than the Impreza STi overseas, IIRC. But with no cruise control (daily driver requirement) and the rougher handling (which makes it more fun but a little less comfy) I lean towards the STi. Well, for the time being. When push comes to shove in a year or two, we'll see.

Alpha1

03-09-2004, 06:54 PM

The Girl's are back in town
http://autoweek.com/images_content/2004_02/volvowomen.jpg

I would have expected to see an Impreza based Saab Sonnet to come out of Sweden prior to Volvo Sonnet like sportcars designs by the girls. Neverless, its a great concept cars, if this was a Saab with the next generation Impreza STI hardware underneath, I would love to have one.

The next reality show " Girls eye for the Sports Guy"

http://www.autoweek.com/specials/2004_geneva/ycc/images/1.jpg
http://www.autoweek.com/specials/2004_geneva/ycc/images/IMG_0265.jpg
http://www.autoweek.com/specials/2004_geneva/ycc/images/IMG_0266.jpg

This is the direction that the Saab/Subaru union should have gone with a Sonnet and a B9 Scrambler as sister cars. Alpha1

Kuro

03-09-2004, 07:49 PM

For heaven's sake, even the treads on those wheels are 'flowery' in design.

Volvo should go to Hell for that car before it kills any innocent souls.

JaySee

03-09-2004, 10:21 PM

Nice design. Very CR-X-ish. Too bad it's all plastic non-functional. I wonder how those strange skylit targa top type doors would open.

coolbluelb

03-10-2004, 01:34 AM

That car is "awful" incarnate...

Gecko2k2

03-10-2004, 01:41 AM

Originally posted by JaySee
Nice design. Very CR-X-ish. Too bad it's all plastic non-functional. I wonder how those strange skylit targa top type doors would open.

Funny you should ask...

http://www.edmunds.com/news/autoshow/articles/101372/page018.html?tid=edmunds.e.autoshow..leftnav.19.*

Beaverboy

03-10-2004, 12:32 PM

Originally posted by Alpha1
The Girl's are back in town
http://autoweek.com/images_content/2004_02/volvowomen.jpg
Nobody's going to take them seriously when they're posing for 'wind-in-the-hair' glamour shots.

:rolleyes:

SUBE555

03-10-2004, 03:04 PM

Look at all that useful, plastic, tread, and the stamping of certain portions of the metal may be a trick in itself.

Alpha1

03-10-2004, 05:17 PM

997 Report: Porsche updates its 911 for the new millennium

Power comes from an updated version of Porsche’s water-cooled 3.6-liter flat six-cylinder engine, tuned to produce around 345 hp, up 25 hp from the existing model. An even more powerful version, with up to 380 hp, is rumored to be under development for the new 911 S. Direct injection is in the works, along with a 10 percent improvement in economy and power, but is unlikely before a planned 2007 facelift for the 997. For the first time on the 911, buyers will be able to order a six-speed Tiptronic with steering-wheel-mounted shift buttons, or a dual-clutch gearbox. A revised six-speed manual gearbox is standard.

http://autoweek.com/weekart/2004/0315/911front2345.jpg

http://autoweek.com/weekart/2004/0315/911rear2345.jpg

Porsche continues to improve the power output of their NA 3.6L H6 engines. I think the 380 hp engine referenced in autoweek is a 3.8 liter, but that still represents a 100hp/liter output, very impressive. Note the report of a 10% fuel reduction with the Direct Injection amplication. I certainly hope that FHI can capture some of Porsche engine magic and continue to improve the output and efficiency of Subaru's next generation of NA engines.

mh_WRX

03-11-2004, 09:48 AM

good to see the round headlights back.

mh_WRX

03-11-2004, 02:45 PM

GM mulls selling Opel cars in U.S.

Reuters / March 10, 2004

FRANKFURT -- General Motors is considering selling models from German unit Adam Opel AG in the United States under its Saturn badge, GM Europe chief Robert Lutz was quoted as saying in a German magazine.

Lutz said in an interview due to appear in WirtschaftsWoche on Thursday that since Opel was not present in the United States, it would be possible to transfer the design.

"Right now we're looking into, among other things, whether Opel conforms to American specifications and where changes might be necessary," he said.

According to Lutz, GM wants to brand Saturn with a European image. But a decision whether Opel vehicles would be used has not been made, he added.

GM is responding to pressure from the Opel works council, which believes the lack of a presence in the U.S. represents a disadvantage versus other competitors such as Volkswagen AG.

Opel Works Council Chairman Klaus Franz welcomed the decision, even if the Opel brand would not itself be used.

"One can't have everything," he said.

Adam Opel reported a $470.5 million operating loss in 2003, contributing to a $286 million loss for General Motors Europe

Scooby-Doode

03-11-2004, 07:50 PM

Originally posted by Alpha1
997 Report: Porsche updates its 911 for the new millennium

Power comes from an updated version of Porsche’s water-cooled 3.6-liter flat six-cylinder engine, tuned to produce around 345 hp, up 25 hp from the existing model. An even more powerful version, with up to 380 hp, is rumored to be under development for the new 911 S. Direct injection is in the works, along with a 10 percent improvement in economy and power, but is unlikely before a planned 2007 facelift for the 997. For the first time on the 911, buyers will be able to order a six-speed Tiptronic with steering-wheel-mounted shift buttons, or a dual-clutch gearbox. A revised six-speed manual gearbox is standard.

http://autoweek.com/weekart/2004/0315/911front2345.jpg

http://autoweek.com/weekart/2004/0315/911rear2345.jpg

Porsche continues to improve the power output of their NA 3.6L H6 engines. I think the 380 hp engine referenced in autoweek is a 3.8 liter, but that still represents a 100hp/liter output, very impressive. Note the report of a 10% fuel reduction with the Direct Injection amplication. I certainly hope that FHI can capture some of Porsche engine magic and continue to improve the output and efficiency of Subaru's next generation of NA engines.

I am saving my beans to buy a 911, maybe the next iteration see above. But darn do I have an itch to buy the STi

Beaverboy

03-12-2004, 10:14 AM

Toyota's Hybrid Supercar Concept (http://www.gizmo.com.au/public/News/news.asp?articleid=2685)

http://www.gizmo.com.au/pics/2685_01.jpg
Innovative layout for sporting performance

Toyota furnished to Italdesign-Giugiaro a derivative of its ultimate hybrid system, the one adopted on the Lexus RX 400. On the Volta, the 3.3 liter V6 petrol engine is fitted behind the rear axle and not connected directly to the wheels. Indeed, motion is ensured by two electrically powered engines, one per axle thereby securing all-wheel drive and enhanced safety.

As such, this epoch-making mechanical layout paves the way to eliminating the traditional transmission and gearbox longitudinal encumbrance.

Indeed, operating electronics enable the power transmitted by the electric motors to the wheels to be modulated, thereby rendering superfluous the gear/clutch unit.

Housed under the lightweight, carbon-fiber chassis, designed and engineered by the Italdesign Giugiaro technical department, are the batteries, weighing 70 kg.

Result: significantly leaner weight, balanced and encompassed between the axles, 300 kW/408 HP output, top speed limited at 250 km/h with acceleration from 0 to 100 km coming in 4.03 seconds.

mh_WRX

03-12-2004, 12:15 PM

Another interpretation:
http://www.auto-motor-sport.de/sixcms/media.php/76/DodgeCharger_450.jpg

mh_WRX

03-12-2004, 12:22 PM

More spy pics of the New Jeep GC.

http://bilder.autobild.de/bilder/1/47294.jpg

http://bilder.autobild.de/bilder/1/47295.jpg

http://bilder.autobild.de/bilder/1/47296.jpg

http://bilder.autobild.de/bilder/1/47297.jpg

http://bilder.autobild.de/bilder/1/47298.jpg

http://bilder.autobild.de/bilder/1/47299.jpg

SOURCE: www.autobild.de

mh_WRX

03-12-2004, 12:34 PM

quick fix GTO nose:

http://groups.msn.com/_Secure/0RQDdArEV*wv9SEVJb22K0P9OCijdOSODlq!tGVp5YQ3rTDzkS 9mdX6hOTgbKOUQKsz4Kza7YAeSgyOEG*tNUjh2*UfynroSDOsD *VkePTaE/vzphoto.bmp

Adding scoops until the 2006/7 replacement.

mh_WRX

03-15-2004, 10:43 AM

Chrysler expands Crossfire lineup
By Rick Kranz
Automotive News / March 15, 2004

DETROIT -- The Chrysler group on Monday said it is expanding its Crossfire lineup for the 2005 model year.

The lineup will include six models, up from one for the 2004 model year. Models and prices are: the Crossfire coupe, $29,920; Limited coupe, $34,620; SRT-6 coupe, $45,695; roadster, $34,960; Limited roadster, $38,920; and SRT-6 roadster, $49,995. SRT-6 models have a supercharged 320-hp 3.2-liter V-6. All models include an $875 destination charge. Sales begin in late April.

For the 2004 model year, Chrysler marketed a coupe with a sticker of $34,495, including freight. The base 2005 Crossfire coupe comes with less standard equipment than the 2004 model.

coolbluelb

03-16-2004, 10:35 AM

http://bilder.autobild.de/bilder/1/47294.jpg

Is it just me, or does that thing look like it has a front grill off of a Volvo?

http://www.tiscali.co.uk/motoring/roadtests/images/02xc901.jpg

mh_WRX

03-16-2004, 10:42 AM

Originally posted by coolbluelb
Is it just me, or does that thing look like it has a front grill off of a Volvo?

you can see the Jeep Verticle bars, I think they put the diagonal seem in there to try to throw people off.

mh_WRX

03-17-2004, 12:31 PM

http://www.thecarconnection.com/images/gallery/7857_image.jpg

At auto shows, Volvo has already introduced its new S40 sedan and V50 station wagon, both sharing styling elements with other, larger Volvo sedans and wagons.

Still top-secret, though, is a new coupe version, likely to be named the C50. The photo here shows for the first time a disguised prototype of the C50 during cold-weather testing in Scandinavia.

The C50 coupe will share the platform of the S40/V50 models, but it is expected that the styling will be completely different. In fact, the design of the new C50 is said to be reminiscent of Volvo's curvaceous 1800S sports car, which it produced in very limited numbers in the 1960s.

The C50 will likely share mechanicals with the V50 wagon, which offers a choice of 168-hp five-cylinder or a 218-hp turbo five-cylinder engines. It will also likely offer all-wheel drive as an option. In fact, it is likely that the prototype in the photos is testing out its AWD system on the ice.

It is expected that Volvo will introduce the new C50 this summer, possibly along with a convertible model.

Hans G. Lehmann/ Hidden Image

mh_WRX

03-17-2004, 04:38 PM

return of the Swift GT?

Take a look at the Suzuki seen testing.

http://bilder.autobild.de/bilder/1/47338.jpg
http://bilder.autobild.de/bilder/1/47339.jpg
http://bilder.autobild.de/bilder/1/47340.jpg

Definately looks like the concept-s show car.

Could it be a return of ghr Swift as a Mini/ R5-Turbo type car?

http://www.edmunds.com/media/2003/naias/suzuki.concepts/suzuki.concepts.f34.500.jpg

And then a convertable?

http://bilder.autobild.de/bilder/1/38517.jpg

mh_WRX

03-17-2004, 04:53 PM

from AMS, article is in German...
-->worldlingo.com translation
Quote:In order to increase the sales figures in this country, the luxury mark needs small series built by general of engine for Europe and as also as possible in Europe. As basis the Epsilon platform of the OPEL Vectra and the Saab 9-3 offers itself, which permit all-wheel drive beside front also. Angedacht is consisting a model row of sedan, combination and Coupé Cabrio with steel Hardtop, which could come with Saab in the Swedish Trollhaettan starting from at the end of of 2007 off the line.

http://www.auto-motor-sport.de/sixcms/media.php/76/caddy1_450.jpg
http://www.auto-motor-sport.de/sixcms/media.php/76/caddy2_450.jpg

More:

DETROIT -- General Motors is close to a decision on development of a small Cadillac based on the Saab 9-3 for sale outside North America.

Two variants of the 9-3, a sedan and a convertible, are being considered, according to GM sources in Europe. The models could provide much-needed volume for Cadillac's new independent distributor in Europe.

If approved for production, the Saab-based Cadillac sedan would be assembled at Saab's plant in Trollhattan, Sweden. A convertible version would be produced by Magna Steyr in Austria.

The Cadillac models would have front- and rear-end styling that draws on design themes from the current Cadillac CTS and SRX. Sales could begin around 2007.

A GM source said the Saab 9-3 is being considered for Cadillac because the Trollhattan plant is underutilized.

Magna Steyr builds the Saab 9-3 convertible.

Company insiders say there are styling prototypes for the small Cadillac in Sweden. A photograph of the proposed model has been seen by representatives of Kroymans Corp., the Dutch company that imports Cadillacs to Europe.

"We have excellent potential in Europe, especially if we have a small model," says Kroymans CEO Ton Van Soest.

Last year Cadillac sold about 800 cars in Europe. "By the end of the decade that could be 10,000," said Cadillac General Manager Mark LaNeve. "But with a smaller Cadillac, it could be more." LaNeve was interviewed Jan. 4 at the Detroit auto show.

He would not confirm plans for a Saab-based model, but said Cadillac is studying the "low compact premium" segment.

"There are no plans or decisions," LaNeve said. "But we're looking at every asset GM has in terms platforms that could work for Europe."

LaNeve said a decision on whether to offer a small Cadillac would be made this year.

GM Vice Chairman Robert Lutz would not discuss Cadillac's future product plans for Europe, but said, "Cadillac may at some point have more products, but we are not going to price below the CTS."

The mid-sized CTS sedan starts at 33,800 euros, or about $43,350 at current exchange rates.

Mark Hogan, GM group vice president for advanced vehicle development, denied that GM is developing a small Cadillac off the 9-3 platform.

"All I can say is, as far as I'm concerned, we're not working on it from a hard-engineering, product-development standpoint," Hogan said. "It is undoubtedly some testing or some market development (Cadillac) wants to do with respect to making sure the distributor has enough volume over there. It seems like that has a lot more work ahead of it."

But Hogan added: "Clearly we want Cadillac to be strong in Europe."

Cadillac's new European distributor will invest $50 million in a network of 25 large stand-alone dealerships. Kroymans Corp., of Hilversum, Netherlands, took over as Cadillac's distributor Oct. 1.

Cadillac sells the CTS sedan and STS full-sized sedan in Europe. The XLR roadster will be added this spring, and the SRX sport wagon will arrive in the second half of 2004.

mh_WRX

03-17-2004, 04:53 PM

GM's top customizer calls it quits
Jon Moss, the head of General Motors' custom and performance shop, is retiring after 38 years at the company.

Alpha1

03-18-2004, 08:18 PM

http://a332.g.akamai.net/f/332/936/12h/www.edmunds.com//pictures/VEHICLE/2005/Dodge/100380761/029028-E.jpg
http://a332.g.akamai.net/f/332/936/12h/www.edmunds.com//pictures/VEHICLE/2005/Dodge/100380761/029029-E.jpg
http://a332.g.akamai.net/f/332/936/12h/www.edmunds.com//pictures/VEHICLE/2005/Dodge/100380761/029030-E.jpg

Make no mistake DCX has changed the sport sedan and wagon game with the new Dodge Magnum RT and Chyrsler 300C. The 2005 Dodge Magnum SXT Rwd 4dr Wagon (3.5L 6cyl 4A) popular equipped will come in around $28,000, likewise the Hemi RT around $32,000.

This family of cars will have an effect on everyone who is considering a performance oriented family cars and the 3.5L version could dominate the mainstream fullsize american auto buyers market.

These cars are a very big deal and all makes will make adjustments in marketing, pricing and packaging of their cars to meet the challenge DCX has brought forth.

Bottom line, there will be some good deals on Subaru Legacy's and comparably price vehicles and these DCX products will have an effect on Subaru's attempt to move upmarket.

The Dodge Magnum and the Chrysler 300 have changed the game. The new car consumers will ultimately benefit in better buys across the board. Alpha1

http://a332.g.akamai.net/f/332/936/12h/www.edmunds.com//pictures/VEHICLE/2005/Chrysler/100378299/028846-E.jpg

BigElm

03-18-2004, 10:43 PM

Originally posted by Alpha1
http://a332.g.akamai.net/f/332/936/12h/www.edmunds.com//pictures/VEHICLE/2005/Dodge/100380761/029028-E.jpg

I gotta tell you... this car is HOT!!! This is like muscle car and monster wagon all in one....

Be careful calling this... "But it's still a Chrysler". I'll have you know that the HEMI has been rated one of the best engine displacements today....

Hmmm, something to consider when the OB Wagon lease is up in 2006 :D

Beaverboy

03-19-2004, 04:36 PM

"But it's still a Mercedes Benz E-class" :p

west_aust

03-20-2004, 11:05 AM

sorry subaru, but here's the car that will make me buy another brand

http://www.audi.co.uk/cache/modelattach/4012_newa3_gallery4.jpg
http://www.audi.co.uk/cache/modelattach/4009_newa3_gallery1.jpg
http://www.audi.co.uk/cache/modelattach/4010_newa3_gallery2.jpg
http://www.audi.co.uk/cache/modelattach/4013_newa3_gallery5.jpg
http://www.audi.co.uk/cache/modelattach/4011_newa3_gallery3.jpg

and its coming here as the 5 door model, should be here before end of year

hunts

03-20-2004, 02:33 PM

Originally posted by west_aust
sorry subaru, but here's the car that will make me buy another brand

and its coming here as the 5 door model, should be here before end of year

Actually, that's what I'm waiting for also. If this doesn't meet my expectation, then I'll probably go for the new A4 instead (chipped, of course). :cool:

Hazdaz

03-20-2004, 06:04 PM

Wow, I am just exhausted from scrolling through all 29 pages of posts. Cool stuff though.

coolbluelb

03-20-2004, 11:01 PM

Originally posted by west_aust
sorry subaru, but here's the car that will make me buy another brand

and its coming here as the 5 door model, should be here before end of year

Are Stats/Prices yet available on the A3?

Gecko2k2

03-21-2004, 12:52 AM

Beautiful car. The Audi name worries me due to their reliability as of alte.

west_aust

03-21-2004, 02:03 AM

Originally posted by coolbluelb
Are Stats/Prices yet available on the A3?

stats from what i read, 1.8T and 3.2 V6 engine (same as the TT)

pricing, should start a little below the one of a FWD A4

reks

03-21-2004, 03:36 AM

My guess on the A3 is 25-35 depending on engine and quattro. The 3.2 VR6 quattro A3 may well be close to 35. For comparison, consider the R32 which is around 30k. The R32 doesn't have DSG and it doesn't have the 'good' quattro system.

What I'd like to see is an S3 :D.

SpiderSebring

03-21-2004, 01:45 PM

Or an RS3 for that matter

E. Nick

03-21-2004, 04:39 PM

Test drove the A3 1.8T and the S3 in Ecuador. The A3 had modest power with the feel of the new Mini for $32K. The S3 had WRX power with a stiffer chassis and suspension. Nice, but laughable for the $62K they wanted... Auto import taxes and markups on rare models are very high down there. Ex. 2002 J-Spec STi with 45,000 km - $55K

Alpha1

03-22-2004, 05:31 PM

2005 Mercedez-Benz E320 CDI
Diesel gains luster and appeal.
by Marc K. Stengel (2004-03-22)

http://www.thecarconnection.com/images/gallery/tmb/7872_image.jpg

Why settle for a simple solution when a complicated one will do?

I have written often about the auto industry's quest for alternative fuels; it is a fascinating and fast-moving topic. And yet, with every new breakthrough, I have to wonder why American motorists are so absorbed with Holy Grail technologies like fuel cells that are still years away, yet so completely oblivious to the open secret that common diesel is an efficient technology already amongst us.

The Euros know this already. Some 40 percent of all commuter vehicles are diesel-powered in Europe, where the equivalent of $5-per-gallon fuel puts a premium on 30- to 50-mpg performance. In North America, by contrast, diesel power is shunned as dirty, smelly, sooty, noisy and suitable only for truckers and farmers.

My conscience forces me to admit that I take all of these slanders personally. I own a diesel sedan - a 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300D, purchased new - and I simply don't understand how the typical, well informed auto enthusiast can be so misinformed about both the sophistication and the performance of modern diesel engines.

New Age diesel

Mercedes doesn't understand either, although the company is giving us North Americans yet another chance to learn at our own pace. Despite withdrawing its diesel E-Class from the U.S. in 1999, Mercedes returns in April with the 2005 E320 CDI, whose hyper-modern powertrain will delight techies, excite performance buffs, and still manage well over 30 miles per gallon.

Otherwise indistinguishable from the rest of Mercedes' E-Class lineup, the CDI diesel actually transforms the experience of driving a luxury sedan. The key to it all is the 3.2-liter in-line six underhood. Its twin-cam design incorporates two fascinating features: common-rail direct injection (CDI) and variable nozzle turbine (VNT) turbocharging. Thanks to CDI, this engine is arguably the most precisely efficient powerplant on U.S. roads today. It combines fuel-system pressures approaching 23,000 pounds per square inch with electromagnetic fuel injectors built to microscopic tolerances. The result is precise yet stingy metering of fuel in nearly molecular increments. Thereupon, the computerized VNT turbo adjusts its vane angles instantaneously to cram exactly the right amount of air into the cylinders for maximum combustion energy.

If you don't believe what you cannot see or hear, then consider this: You won't find the first sooty smudge on a white handkerchief held over the tailpipe. Emissions meet EU requirements, which are as much as 58 percent more stringent than our own EPA's. You'll scarcely hear the CDI's 44-dB idle noise or its 72-dB full-throttle acceleration. By comparison, Mercedes' 3.2-liter gasoline V-6 idles at 42 dB and accelerates, full-throttle, at 76 dB. (An average conversation, by the way, registers 60 dB.) Best of all, the CDI sprints from zero to 60 in 6.8 seconds, which is 0.3 seconds faster than its gas V-6 sibling.

All this from a mere 201 horsepower, you might ask? Yes, indeed, because paired with that admittedly uninspiring number is a rating of 369 ft-lb of torque. Torque, or pulling power, is what "feels" sporty in stop-and-go driving, and 369 ft-lb is stratospheric, particularly since it peaks quickly at 1800 rpm.

This is what makes the CDI so fun to drive. It leaps from stops like a rifle shot. When overtaking slower vehicles on the freeway, the CDI powertrain accelerates like an electric motor, rarely pausing to downshift into a lower gear. The Euros drive the wheels off this 3835-lb car precisely because all that torque creates a sensation of sporting about in something hundreds of pounds lighter. I drove the wheels off the CDI at its media debut in San Antonio, complete with back-road strafes and triple-digit highway sprints. For my trouble, I was rewarded with 31.5 mpg.

Benchmark for luxury

The CDI diesel is an ideal choice for Mercedes' E-Class sedan. This is one of the world's benchmark vehicles in the luxury car class, and the unique personality of this new diesel adds a new level of refinement. The cabin is a wraparound envelope of leather and burl, and there is simply no indication of a diesel underhood until the right foot tips the accelerator. How ironical, then, that with Mercedes' near-total banishment of "diesel clatter," the E320 CDI should suffer so much road noise through the wheels and tires. On the pebbly, rough, "sealcoat" surfaces of Texas hill country highways, the Mercedes' cabin was awash in white noise.

I have, moreover, complaints with two design elements that are exclusive to Mercedes interiors. The one is the company's curious and persistent decision to place its cruise-control stalk side-by-side the turn-signal/wiper stalk. Countless are the times my left fingers mistake one for the other while my eyes are on the road. Can I possibly be the only Mercedes driver with such an inexact sense of touch?

My other complaint concerns Mercedes' glacial progress in improving its COMAND telematics. This over-busy system for integrating music, navigation, and telephone is a proliferation of buttons and screens. Moreover, the buttons on the dash are labeled with text on the screens, and these labels change according to mode. I almost despaired of retrieving a favorite CD: Not only was the "eject" button nowhere near the CD slot, it wasn't even associated with the "audio mode" screen.

Gadget gripes aside, I can't imagine Mercedes having any difficulty in selling all 3000 CDI diesels it's importing to the U.S. for 2005. Price, though unannounced at press time, will compete with the E320 gas V-6 model; and that means a base near $48,000. Already there are plans for all-wheel-drive "4Matic" versions of the CDI, possibly by year's end. As for my opinion of diesel-powered passenger cars in general, however, even yesterday isn't soon enough. What's not to get about having your performance, your luxury, and your mileage too?

2005 Mercedes-Benz E320 CDI
Engine: Turbocharged 3.2-liter DOHC 24-valve in-line six, 201 hp/369 ft-lb
Transmission: Five-speed automatic with TouchShift control, rear-wheel drive
Length x width x height: 189.7 x 71.3 x 57.2 in
Wheelbase: 112.4 in
Curb weight: 3835 lb
Fuel economy (EPA city/hwy): 27/37 mpg
Safety equipment: Front, front/rear side and curtain airbags, anti-lock brakes, stability control system, electronic brake-force distribution
Major standard equipment: Dual-zone automatic climate control, 16-inch wheels, AM/FM/CD, TeleAid, rain-sensing wipers, COMAND, fog lamps
Warranty: Four years/50,000 miles

http://www.thecarconnection.com/index.asp?article=6961&sid=183&n=157

mh_WRX

03-23-2004, 01:55 PM

It's said this is so he can see his GTR baby come to market as well....

Ghosn to oversee Nissan N.A. operations

Reuters / March 23, 2004

TOKYO -- Nissan Motor Co. said on Tuesday that CEO Carlos Ghosn will directly oversee its North American operations as part of preparations for its new three-year plan.

"The United States has had fairly good success for the past few years and the challenge there is to add momentum, which Ghosn is the best person to handle," said Nissan spokesman Gerry Spahn.

Owned 44 percent by France's Renault, Nissan, like most Japanese automakers, gets the bulk of its earnings in the United States, where it is in the middle of a product offensive.

While remaining CEO and based in Japan, Ghosn will hand over his current responsibilities for operations in Japan and China as part of the management reshuffle.

Executive Vice President Norio Matsumura, who oversees North America, will take over Nissan's Japan operations and Senior Vice President Toshiyuki Shiga will assume full management control over China operations.

Nissan's Japan operations have made strides in improving profitability but most of the gains have been through cutting costs, and it needs to make more improvements on distribution.

"In Japan, Matsumura who has global sales experience in the United States and Europe, has the ability to work hands-on with the dealers," said Spahn.

Having eliminated all of its automotive debt and secured an operating margin comfortably above an eight percent target, Nissan's only remaining task under its current business plan is to boost global sales by about 40 percent, or one million units, in the three years to 2005.

It will announce a new three-year business plan on April 26.

Leaping from near-bankruptcy in 1999 to Japan's most profitable auto maker by operating margin, Nissan has become the darling of financial markets, with the charismatic Brazilian-born Ghosn the toast of the global car industry.

Ghosn, who was sent from Renault, is due to become Renault's CEO in April 2005, while still keeping his post at Nissan.

Nissan has raised its sales target in the U.S. by 2.1 percent to 870,000 units for the business year to March 31, reflecting a better-than-expected performance in the world's biggest car market.

In contrast, a poor product mix and fierce competition in Japan has prompted the automaker to cut its domestic sales target by 3.5 percent to 837,000 cars.

Alpha1

03-23-2004, 05:02 PM

(08:30 March 22, 2004)
2005 Dodge Magnum
A Bigger Charge: Magnum delivers beefy looks, power and hyper-style to the mainstream

By KEVIN A. WILSON

Magnum drivers sit 2.5 inches higher than those in Intrepids, can have a Hemi driving the rear wheels, and wagon utility without minivan stigma.

ON SALE: May
BASE PRICE: $29,995
POWERTRAIN: 5.7-liter, 340-hp, 390-lb-ft Hemi V8; rwd, five-speed automatic
CURB WEIGHT: 4142 pounds
0 to 60 MPH: 6.3 seconds (mfr.)

YOU WILL HAVE WANDERED INTO SOME strange corners of the car-fan universe before you find a proponent of the previous Dodge Magnum, a rear-drive sedan last produced in 1978 that could trace its mechanical roots to the compact Valiant of the ’60s and its soul to the police cruiser and taxicab market. Even among the Mopar faithful, it is a nonentity; Magnum is remembered as the name on the old 318-cid V8. So we were mildly surprised when present-day Chrysler applied the old name to its all-new-think 2005 sports tourer, the reinvention of the rear-wheel-drive wagon form that—we were once told—had been rendered obsolete by Chrysler’s own creation of the minivan.

Once we’d encountered it, though, we realized the word fits the new car too well to be set aside in favor of something like “Coronet.”

The word magnum has two common definitions: One designates ammunition (and therefore the weapon designed to fire it) with a bigger-than-normal charge of explosive in its shell; the other denotes a larger-than-normal bottle to contain wine or liquor—about 1.5 liters (twice an ordinary wine bottle) or two-fifths of a gallon.

The new Dodge packs a magnum wallop, both with the performance of the optional Hemi under its hood and in the cargo space accessible through its expansive tailgate, hinged well forward atop the roof. So it is a Magnum in both the extra-explosive and extra-volume senses.

Built on the same 120-inch wheelbase as the Chrysler 300 (AW, March 8), the Magnum uses the same mechanicals, for the most part, with some minor calibration changes for brand character and to accommodate the small difference in weight between the cars.

Even more than the 300, it is a bold design statement. Take the original Durango SUV and blend it with some street rodder’s deranged dream of a Charger station wagon and you might come up with something close to this. The big grille looks like it came straight off the truck range, though it is actually the first rendition of a slightly revised face for the brand. The high beltline and upright seating position are similarly SUV-like, and the short greenhouse with long roof and vertical sides gives it the tank-like aspect that seems to appeal to the American mainstream in its search for a sense of security on the road.

We’ve driven the Magnum now in sunny weather, through a rare desert rain and over packed snow and ice in far northern Michigan, and if its mission is to give an alternative to the SUV that still provides the robust structure, interior volume and utility of such vehicles, it is spot-on. And we haven’t even met the all-wheel-drive model coming this fall.

Of course, its mission goes a bit beyond being the road-going equivalent of a sugar substitute, an almost-as-good replacement for something deemed “bad for you” by the cultural scolds who seem to have so much influence over American consumers. The scolds won’t leave this two-ton performer alone for long, so it can’t pin its hopes only on those whose sweeteners come in blue or pink envelopes.

Its ambition is indicated in the ad slogan, “the new face of American muscle.” Magnum aims to put some of the Viper high-perf flavor into the NASCAR dad’s garage. That escapee-from-Autorama design is a start, and you get it even if you opt for the base trim level. Not everyone will love it, but Dodge learned with its pickup that trying to please everyone is no way to play the game. Instead, it makes a distinctive statement that appeals strongly to some portion of the market. The company doesn’t dominate any segment, but has seen strong growth in its own formerly minimal market share.

Design isn’t all the base car has going for it. Equipped with a 2.7-liter V6 making 190 hp and 190 lb-ft of torque, the Magnum SE is comparable to BMW’s base 5 Series wagon with its 184-hp inline six. The Dodge weighs less than 100 pounds more, settles for a four-speed automatic only, where BMW offers your choice of five speeds to shift for yourself, or automatic. But the Dodge also starts at $22,495, including destination, less than half the base price of a 525i Touring automatic, and the comparison is not as invidious as it would have been in the old days—there is a lot of Mercedes-think in this car’s chassis and dynamics, though it comes with the cloth interior and other attributes that status-aware M-B tends to leave at home for the German market.

Standard equipment includes a 60/40 split folding rear seat, power locks with remote entry, AM/FM CD audio, manual tilt/telescope steering column, power windows and four-wheel discs. ABS is not standard, but optional at this level only. Once you pop the $1,000 for ABS, smaller costs apply for all-speed traction control or even the mighty Electronic Stability Program derived from Mercedes. Other options include an eight-way power seat, power tilt/telescope column, rain-sensing wipers and more. We found a Magnum SE with ESP acceptable in the Michigan flatlands, though it might feel challenged for power with a full load at altitude—a consideration in a vehicle that could well be expected to make a cross-country family vacation trip or two.

The next step up is the $25,995 SXT, with a 250-hp 3.5-liter V6 that would serve anyone’s needs adequately. Here, the full ABS/traction control/ESP package is standard, and it really does the job on the snow. With the 3.5 you can get enough grunt going to the rear axle to notice that the ESP is not intrusive, allowing enough rear tire slip angle to let the driver adjust the car’s handling attitude with the throttle. The system helps you maintain control, using the brakes and the throttle to keep the car stable. Turn it off, and the throttle intervention is cut off, but the brakes will still try to help you cope with matters.

The R/T tops the range and has the same 5.7-liter, 340-hp, 390-lb-ft Hemi V8 as in the 300C and uses the Mercedes-designed, Chrysler-built (in Kenosha, Wisconsin) five-speed automatic. Dodge says it will get to 60 mph in 6.3 seconds, and we suspect it might do better. The automatic has Chrysler’s Autostick shifter for manual selection of gears, and the R/T’s standard equipment list includes 18-inch polished aluminum wheels (where lesser models have 17s), dual exhaust, larger disc brakes, fog lamps, leather seating and a premium sound system with six speakers and 288-watt amp. Chrysler claims it offers the most horsepower you can get for a base price less than $30,000.

We sampled all these models and electronic support features over three special snow-packed tracks (slalom, skidpad and lane-change maneuvers) at the Keweenaw Research Center at Michigan Technological University in Houghton. It was fun doing big donuts and drifting the Magnum R/T around the skidpad at a lurid angle, but it wasn’t particularly challenging to do so. The car has good balance and plenty of power, easily modulated. A trained driver has no problem and even the average jamoke on the highway will stand a better chance of evading an emergency than he would in an SUV, thanks to the handling with the all-independent suspension and tires selected for genuine all-weather traction. Yes, real snow tires would be recommended if you’re in the heavy stuff a lot, but the stock Goodyears and Continentals both proved adequate if your need is only occasional. And if you’re remembering scary old live-axle Detroit iron on bias-ply tires, fuggetaboutit. Not even close. This thing tracks steady and true even when you put the power down a little early while cornering over bumpy gravel with patches of ice atop it, a circumstance that would have put an ’89 Magnum tail-first into a tree at half the speed.

So, distinctive style, Detroit-iron attitude and 21st century electronics, all at a cost no higher than you’d pay for a basic transportation module. If the comparison to the 5 Series wagon seems like a stretch to you, that is because there is little that compares directly to the Magnum. There is some risk in that, but the Dodge boys are confident that being different is a good thing. You’re not going to get much argument on that premise from this corner of the car-fan universe.

http://www.autoweek.com/weekart/2004/0322/magnumrear.jpg
http://www.autoweek.com/weekart/2004/0322/magnumengine.jpg

http://www.autoweek.com/cat_content.mv?port_code=autoweek&cat_code=reviews&loc_code=index&content_code=02904799

Alpha1

03-23-2004, 05:22 PM

(08:35 March 23, 2004)
BMW 1 Series: CS1 styling in an economy package; U.S. plans still murky

By GREG KABLE

YOU’RE LOOKING AT THE car BMW hopes will place it on the premium small-car road map alongside some of Europe’s biggest sellers: the all-new 1 Series.

Conceived to not infringe on BMW-owned Mini, the baby BMW five-door hatchback goes on sale across Europe shortly after its public debut at the Paris motor show in September. BMW is also planning three-door hatchback and five-door wagon versions.

None of those models are U.S. bound. The earliest we’ll see a 1 Series variant is 2006, and that car will be a coupe likely wearing the 2 Series badge in keeping with BMW’s even-number naming strategy for two-door models (Z4, 6 Series). The car’s entrance into the U.S. market awaits development of coupe and convertible models, because BMW doubts whether a hatchback will sell in the States. BMW is also concerned that a strong euro against the dollar could drive the price of the 1 Series (see page 8) out of its intended price segment.

Pitched as BMW’s cheapest model, one rung below the 3 Series, the 1 Series will compete with the Volkswagen Golf and the coming Audi A3 (AW, March 22). The new car’s biggest draw may well be its rear-wheel-drive layout, which BMW’s research and development guru Burkhard Goeschel claims provides the 1 Series with the sportiest handling traits and greatest agility in a class loaded with front-drive cars.

Designed by American Chris Chapman, the 1 Series adheres closely to the CS1 concept car shown at the 2002 Geneva motor show with striking convex and concave surfaces.

The 1 Series shares up to 40 percent of its components with next year’s all-new 3 Series. While the European market gets a mix of gasoline and diesel four-cylinder engines, BMW’s all-new 180-hp, 2.2-liter inline six—that will first appear on the next-generation 3 Series due by this time next year—is the likely candidate for the U.S. model, AutoWeek has learned. The engine will be mated to a six-speed automat-ic or manual gearbox, but a sequential manual gearbox may also be an option with the six-cylinder engine in the States.

http://autoweek.com/weekart/2004/0329/1series345main.jpg http://autoweek.com/weekart/2004/0329/1seriesint1.jpg

http://autoweek.com/weekart/2004/0329/1seriesfrontview.jpg http://autoweek.com/weekart/2004/0329/1seriesint2.jpg

http://autoweek.com/weekart/2004/0329/1seriesside.jpg http://autoweek.com/weekart/2004/0329/1seriesstudio2.jpg

http://www.autoweek.com/cat_content.mv?port_code=autoweek&cat_code=carnews&loc_code=index&content_code=08700284

JaySee

03-23-2004, 05:46 PM

Damn it! I want a RWD Hatch!

amdmaxx

03-23-2004, 06:45 PM

move to Europe...

kukabuka

03-23-2004, 10:24 PM

I want an awd 5 door hatch with sequential manual. I'm sure it will never be produced though.

bmw won't even make an awd 3-series with smg. I don't understand why not.

kukabuka

03-23-2004, 10:50 PM

Originally posted by west_aust
sorry subaru, but here's the car that will make me buy another brand

http://www.audi.co.uk/cache/modelattach/4012_newa3_gallery4.jpg

and its coming here as the 5 door model, should be here before end of year

How reliable is your source? I have not heard anything about 5 doors for the a3.

If it's coming in 5 doors w/ dsg and the 3.2, then I'm not going to buy a legacy gt.

hunts

03-23-2004, 11:17 PM

Originally posted by kukabuka
How reliable is your source? I have not heard anything about 5 doors for the a3.

If it's coming in 5 doors w/ dsg and the 3.2, then I'm not going to buy a legacy gt.

Check this out:

http://autoweek.com/search/search_display.mv?port_code=autoweek&cat_code=carnews&content_code=07096554&Search_Type=STD&Search_ID=2002141&record=2

I also lurk around at this place for up-to-date info:

http://forums.vwvortex.com/

Alpha1

03-23-2004, 11:48 PM

The VW Golf R32 may likely option a 6 speed DGS transmission in the generation 5 Golf series due in USA as a 2006 model. The Golf R is not likely to be offer for several years after the USA launch of the Golf 5. Who knows if the next Golf R32 will be avialable in both a 3 door and a 5 door hatchback variant. The current R32 is a 3400 lb plus car and the Generation 5 is larger and heavier. I'm not sure if this is the direction a high performance compact sports car should follow. Alpha 1

http://www.autoweek.com/weekart/2004/0322/r32main.jpg http://www.autoweek.com/weekart/2004/0322/r32rear.jpg

http://www.autoweek.com/weekart/2004/0322/r32engine.jpghttp://www.autoweek.com/weekart/2004/0322/r32int.jpg

08:30 March 22, 2004)
It R what it R: The R32 is the last, best version of the VW’s Golf IV

By MARK VAUGHN

On the street or at the track, the tricked-out Golf is easy to drive fast. Just 5000 R32s will be available for our roads. (All photos © 2004 Ron Kimball)

2004 VOLKSWAGEN R32
ON SALE: Now
BASE PRICE: $29,675
POWERTRAIN: 3.2-liter, 240-hp, 236-lb-ft VR6; awd, six-speed manual
CURB WEIGHT: 3409 pounds
0 to 60 MPH: 6.4 seconds (mfr.)

Technology will soon allow us, maybe even you and me, to live to be about 185 years old or so. That means in the year 2150 we will be able to sit in our anti-gravity gyro-rockers on our carbon-unit front porches and regale the great-great-great grandchildren with tales of the golden age of fun cars.

“Yep,” we will say for the 809th time, “I remember back in double-ought four, yesiree, we had the Evo, the STi and the R32 ta’ boot!”

The great-great-great grandkids will have long since tuned us out by then, going on holographic 3D journeys in their smart-gel brains but still allowing us to see them as attentive and interested. The future will make everyone happy.

“Tell us again, Gramps!” their little auto-enthuso-voices will say, automatically.

“Well, as I recall, in 2003 the Evo was first in the U.S. market, 271 horses, followed by the STi, at 300. Then came the R32. Even though the R32 only had 240 hp, it was smoother and more comfortable than the others were. ’Course, that was before Emperor Gates eliminated the need for cars altogether with Windows ’09 for Molecular Transfer through USB ports. Heh, heh, yep—them were the days. We actually had to drive the suckers ourselves!”

So yes, your future self will recall this as the golden age of wheeled fun, particularly in the compact-car market. And the most recent fun thing in that market is the Volkswagen Golf R32.

For the record, it won’t beat a Mitsubishi Evo or a Subaru STi, despite the fact the R stands for racing. We have to get that out of the way right off.

But that’s only if what you mean by beat is to get to 60 mph before them, or lap a road course faster. See, in this golden age there is an under-$30,000 performance compact for everyone. While the STi leads in horsepower and grip on gravel, and the Evo is the road-course king, the car of those three you just might want to own and commute in every day could well be the Volkswagen.

The R32 is the Volkswagen Golf fan’s ultimate dreamboat. It has a mighty and smooth 3.2-liter VR6 engine, the most powerful ever bolted into a production Golf engine bay. It has all-wheel drive sending 236 lb-ft of torque to both the front and rear wheels through a six-speed manual and a Haldex differential. It has big brakes, unique body panels, seats with meaningful bolsters, a fat steering wheel and even dual exhausts.

The R32 is everything a VW enthusiast could ask for here in the States right now.

Except for maybe a Golf V. See, while the fifth-generation Golf is already in showrooms across Europe, it won’t come to America until October 2005, when it arrives in GTI form. The Jetta gets here a few months before that and the regular old Golf V a few months after that. VW in Germany thinks we don’t like hatches here. As a result, VW dealers here think VW in Germany is ignoring them, forcing them to sell seven-year-old models and offering cars like the Phaeton to keep them profitable.

Does this mean VW Germany is out of touch and unresponsive to U.S. needs? Sort of. But the trail of the R32 suggests otherwise. The way that seemingly Euro-only car wound up here shows how responsive VW can be when it wants to. The story goes like this:

A bunch of U.S. auto journalists were sitting around on a press trip in Europe with Bernd Pischetsrieder, chairman of the board of VW, when the subject of the R32 came up.

Scribe: “We’d like to have that fine R32 back home.”

Chairman of the board of VW AG: “What? Really?”

Pischetsrieder then leapt to his feet (some say he merely “got up”), went to a phone, made a call and next thing you know the VW R32 was on its way to our shores. See, even a company that makes 5 million cars a year can still line up 5000 R32s for the States.

And what R32s they are. Let’s wade into the details.

The heart of this Euro-squealer is the 3.2-liter VR6. We have gone on record as loving the VR6 since we first stomped on the gas of one in a 1992 Corrado SLC. The narrow-angle (15-degree) banks of cylinders simply hummed and spun so smoothly it was like a little electric train motor. A little electric train motor that spat out 175 hp. It was so smooth and powerful, especially compared to V6s of the day, that it was like an alternate power source from another planet.

Evolution of the VR6 led to the 2.8-liter 200-hp version in the GTI VR6 model available today. An extra 400 cubic centimeters of displacement, along with a redesigned intake system, roller rockers and seven-bearing main brought the engine to today’s state of power.

The R32’s engine was originally developed for V6 versions of the Phaeton and Touareg. It is shared with the Audi TT 3.2, another Deutsche-screamer. The R32 does not get the TT’s Direct-Shift Gearbox, but it does come with a perfectly serviceable six-speed manual.

From there torque twists to Volks-wagen’s 4Motion all-wheel-drive system. Most of the time the torque goes straight out the front wheels. When those slip, up to 50 percent of the torque travels south to the Haldex coupling in the rear differential. This works seamlessly. If you can hear or feel it working, you’re more sensitive than are we, but more on that in a minute.

The R32 rides an inch lower than the GTI (though it is 10 mm higher than the European R32). It sits on MacPherson struts in front and a multilink mated to a subframe in the back. The subframe was necessary to accommodate the all-wheel-drive system. Antiroll bars are 21 mm in front and 16 mm in back, two mm and one mm thicker than the GTI. Spring rates are stiffer than the GTI but essentially the same as the European R32.

Front ventilated discs are 13.1 inches across and rear ventilated discs are 10.1 inches. Wheels are 15-spoke Aristos, 18 inches in diameter with 225/40R summer tires. Steering is quicker, too. Of course there is ABS, EBD, ESP and brake assist, but Volkswagen says the electronics intervene at a later point than in the rest of its cars.

Outside, a new front bumper with three big intakes—one of which houses an extra radiator—helps to cool the larger engine. The bottom edge of the new bumper is lower than the GTI, as are the unique side skirts and redesigned rear bumper. VW says the rear spoiler is functional and not only reduces lift, but produces downforce. For the record, the rear end never once lifted off the ground the whole time we had the car. Even with all the body cladding, the R32’s coefficient of drag is the same 0.31 listed for the regular Golf.

The R32 comes in four colors: red, silver, blue and black. The blue is particularly striking, being fairly close to the blue in the VW logos and corporate stationary.

Inside, the big news is those fabulous Koenig seats. Big, meaty side bolsters keep all but the most rotund in place during cornering, though the bolsters do get in the way of the parking-lever operation a little. Leather seats are the only option on the car, at $950. The steering wheel is equally meaty and also unique to this car. New metal trim on the dash and doorsills, along with monogrammed sill panels, further distinguishes the R32 from the mere mortal Volkswagens.

The R32 is like a fully loaded Golf—with climate control, CD/cassette, rain-sensor windshield wipers, sunroof, anti-theft system—plus the aforementioned unique stuff. It is the Golf line’s halo car, relegating the GTI to the category of “affordable performance,” according to VW of America product planner Paul Spevetz. “The R32 is maybe less price conscious,” says Spevetz, which is especially true if you remember the cost of the first GTIs.

So how does all that feel around a racetrack? VW rented out Firebird Raceway in Phoenix and let us have at it. We first did several laps of an autocross course to get the feel of the car. Here, in addition to our usual phalanx of tricks employed at all autocross courses, we found the R32’s awd was a real help. Toss it into a corner like a dirty T-shirt into the hamper and, no matter how out of shape you found yourself going in, get on the throttle before the apex and let the 4Motion figure things out. It was almost like cheating.

The R32 weighs 3409 pounds, about 400 more than the GTI. Most of that is the awd with some weight gained due to the independent rear end. VW says the 4Motion is necessary to get all that 240 hp to the ground. Put it through just the front wheels and there is massive torque steer and wheelspin and little forward progress.

We got plenty of forward progress. VW claims 0 to 60 in 6.4 seconds and a top speed of 130 mph. The 236 lb-ft of torque peak comes between 2800 and 3200 rpm while the 240-hp rating apexes at 6250 rpm. In between, it was all just so smooth. While power and torque have risen considerably since we first drove the VR6 engine, the characteristic smoothness has not changed at all. Clutch engagement and take-up was smooth, too.

Revving the engine was a pleasure, as there seemed to be power and torque all over the tach. The exhaust tone had been tuned nicely with a resonate flapper that opens at 3500 rpm to create a sweetly throaty burble up to redline, not the offensive braaap some small-displacement racing exhausts emit.

If we’re going to whine, we’ll say the suspension allows for too much body roll, which has been a Golf trait since time immemorial. It is especially prevalent now considering the flat cornering characteristics of the Evo, a car that is just wonderfully flat when pushed around a corner. The STi has slightly more roll than the Evo, as well as more pitch and dive. Add more to all that and you’re at the R32, a car that remains well ahead of most pedestrian compacts.

But the R32’s roll is nicely controlled—it doesn’t flop from side to side—and it is a soft roll that makes the R32 so comfortable to drive the rest of the week. You can’t blame the tires, either, since they’re already summer-only treads.

Which means, we suppose, that life is full of tradeoffs.

We lapped the north course at Firebird a few times for photos on our first day and then a few more times, behind an instructor, the second day. Two days driving didn’t wear us out or make us reach for the kidney belt from our luggage as it might have with an Evo.

“I don’t think there is anyone in the production team that wants it to be a Subaru or a Mitsubishi,” said Spevetz. “Your average driver is going to be able to wring a lot more out of an R32 than out of some Japanese cars.”

The R32 is in showrooms now, priced at $29,675 including destination. But here is the real news: Volkswagen says this is just the first of what will be a line of R cars. A line? What does that mean? We don’t know yet. But it is a nice thing to imagine.

“The R series is a GT kind of class,” a Volkswagen R engineer told us. “The R line should be a car that is sportif and comfortable.”

mh_WRX

03-24-2004, 10:05 AM

Agreed, the Golf line has grown outside of it's orginal appeal. If the next GTi could manange to lighten up, instead of doing the normal thing of making it heavier but adding HP. HP can not solve everything.

Blitzkrieg

03-24-2004, 12:19 PM

Originally posted by mh_WRX
Agreed, the Golf line has grown outside of it's orginal appeal. If the next GTi could manange to lighten up, instead of doing the normal thing of making it heavier but adding HP. HP can not solve everything.

I tend to agree with you, The golf is just one big overweight piece of metal. VW needs to get their act togethor and bring over the true successor to old school golf, the pollo. :D

BlitZ

brandon

03-24-2004, 12:41 PM

I'm not sure if this is the direction a high performance compact sports car should follow. Alpha 1 I'm reasonably certain it's not either, but there seems to be more than a few people on this board who are keen for a larger Impreza. Oh, well.

Oldnslow

03-24-2004, 01:38 PM

Saw my first new Golf R32 on the street. Nice car. However, it is hard to believe that a performance car that small could weigh 3400lbs. Not my idea of a sporty machine!

west_aust

03-24-2004, 04:10 PM

Actually, from the reports you see in europe, the new golf V even if bigger and a little heavier, is actually the best handling golf since mk1 or mk2, cause of the new suspension configuration

in sure in GTI form, this car will be amazing to drive

Alpha1

03-24-2004, 07:00 PM

Originally posted by west_aust
Actually, from the reports you see in europe, the new golf V even if bigger and a little heavier, is actually the best handling golf since mk1 or mk2, cause of the new suspension configuration

in sure in GTI form, this car will be amazing to drive

My take on the Golf 5 is somewhat different. The new Golf is likely to be the best compact car Volkswagen has ever built and for the 1st time represent the values of the original Beetles.

There is a caveat to this statement. Only in the TDI form as a super economy daily driver. With the advent of Volkswagens DGS transmission and their new 2.0 liter TDI engine, these A3 variant vehicles are going to be great cars.

I am seriously considering getting my wife, a 2006 Golf TDI with DGS option, as she is the high milege driver in my family. This car will offset our overall fuel cost and justify my purchase of a Hemi powered Chrysler 300C as our family car.

The additional weight and size is warranted when you look at the real value of these A3 derived Golf and Jettas. The new VW will be a high quality, comfortable European alternative to the majority of the bland domestic and Japanses economy compact cars. Alpha1

I am just hoping that Subaru produces a B11S type vehicle, based on a blown Legacy 3.0R B spec hardware around 2008, then I can close my car fleet out with a Sports Grand Touring car or poorman's Porsche Targa.

http://www.tucarro.com.ar/sin-comentarios/wolksvagen-golf-5generacion/p.jpg
The new 2006 Golf 5 TDI with DGS will average 44mpg
http://www.tucarro.com.ar/sin-comentarios/wolksvagen-golf-5generacion/rear.jpg

NEW GOLF NOW AVAILABLE WITH INNOVATIVE DSG DIRECT SHIFT GEARBOX - DSG now available in the Touran 2.0 TDI (3/18/2004 10:23:24 PM)
WOLFSBURG, Germany - The engine and gearbox range for the new Golf and the Touran compact van continues to grow.

Following the launch of the Touran 1.9 TDI with Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) in Autumn 2003, the new Golf 1.9 TDI and 2.0 TDI as well as the Touran 2.0 TDI are now being offered with the automatic gearbox that uses a dual clutch.

The Direct Shift Gearbox combines the acceleration and consumption characteristics of a manual gearbox with the convenience of an automatic gearbox. The advantages of the six-speed DSG over torque-converter automatics are improved consumption and smooth acceleration with uninterrupted traction. The average consumption of the Golf over 100 kilometres is 5.2 litres for the 1.9 TDI and 5.4 litres for the 2.0 TDI. This figure is 6.5 litres for the Touran 2.0 TDI.

Both models combine excellent consumption with a high torque output. The 1.9 TDI delivers 77kW/105hp and has a maximum torque of 250Nm. The new 2.0 TDI featuring four-valve technology reaches 103kW/140hp and 320Nm. This matches the six-cylinder petrol engine featured in the Golf R32 in terms of torque.

The Golf with Direct Shift Gearbox starts at €20,300 (example price for the 1.9 TDI Trendline). The new Touran 2.0 TDI DSG starts at €26,250 and can be ordered in the Trendline and High_line versions.

reks

03-24-2004, 07:59 PM

DSG is a pretty sweet technology. There are only 2 problems:

It's not clear how reliable these trannys are going to be since the current incarnation hasn't been around that long.

I don't think they've brought it to the US in anything except the TT so far :(.

mh_WRX

03-25-2004, 09:55 AM

What are the TQ figures on the new 2.0 TDI? That's where both direct injection and diesels shine.

And I thought a Magnum might be in your near future with all of the postings lately ;)

amdmaxx

03-25-2004, 09:59 AM

I wish 2.0 TDi golf would come to US soooo bad... but it wont, it seems..
145hp, 250 torque, 45 mpg... So awesome...

mh_WRX

03-25-2004, 10:09 AM

With both MB and BMW bringing Hi-end Diesels ti the US, I think VW will follow suit.

amdmaxx

03-25-2004, 11:46 AM

2006 - clean diesel in US (like 100 times less Sulfur in the diesel)..
Will be gooood news for diesel engines.... Cars will car a lot cleaner..

mh_WRX

03-25-2004, 01:05 PM

http://www.theautochannel.com/N/F/news/2004/03/24/186293.1-lg.jpg

TORRANCE, Calif., March 24 -- Lexus will unveil a dynamic concept vehicle, created with a new, more passionate design direction, at a press conference at the New York International Auto Show, Thurs., April 8, 2004.

Known as LF-C, the high-output V8-powered, luxury sports coupe combines performance, versatility and innovative luxury in a sleek package.

The Lexus press conference will be held in the Galleria Room on level 4 of the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center at 10:15 a.m. EDT.

mh_WRX

03-25-2004, 01:06 PM

http://www.theautochannel.com/N/F/news/2004/03/24/186359.1-lg.jpg

Supercharged Special Edition Salutes Indianapolis 500

INDIANAPOLIS March 24, 2004; Chevrolet is introducing a 2004 Impala Indy SS to commemorate its long relationship with the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the Indianapolis 500-mile race.

The limited edition model will have a production run of 4088 units and is currently being offered through select Chevrolet dealerships in the U.S. and Canada.

The Indy SS package is based on the new-for-2004 Impala SS sedan. At its heart is GM's 3800 Series II supercharged V-6, delivering 240 horsepower at 5200 rpm and an impressive 280 lb.ft. of torque at 3600 rpm. The torque curve is consistently high over a broad operating range, providing instant off-the-line acceleration and ample power for highway merging and passing.

Unique to the Impala Indy SS are 17-inch chrome diamond-cut aluminum wheels, monotone cross-lace grille with "gold" Chevy bowtie emblem and a rear spoiler. There's no doubt as to the connection with the 2.5-mile speedway, as Indy's famous "winged wheel" logo is found on the front fenders and instrument panel, as well as embroidered into the front seat head restraints and floor mats. Like the standard Impala SS, the Indy SS is available only in a monochromatic black exterior, complimented with grey leather seating surfaces inside.

Chevrolet's entire 2004 Impala lineup offers a solid body structure, room for five passengers, plenty of cargo space, a surprising number of amenities for the price, and a track record of outstanding quality, reliability and durability. Highlighting its comprehensive safety package, Impala consistently earns five stars (the highest U.S. government safety rating) in frontal crash testing for driver and front passenger.

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway has been the site of many memorable events since the facility opened in 1909. Similarly, Chevrolet has a rich heritage in racing that extends back to company co-founder and namesake Louis Chevrolet, a gifted engineer and talented race car driver who competed in the Indy 500 four times. More recently, Chevy Indy V8 engines have won 103 open-wheel races, including seven Indianapolis 500 victories. Chevrolet vehicles have also paced all ten and won five of the Brickyard 400 NASCAR races to date.

Expanding Chevrolet's relationship with the Indianapolis Motor Speedway this year is the announcement that a 2004 Corvette will serve as the official pace car of this year's Indianapolis 500 on May 30. This marks the third consecutive year and 15th time overall that a Chevrolet product has served as the official pace vehicle - the most appearances by any brand in the history of race.

mh_WRX

03-25-2004, 01:07 PM

http://www.theautochannel.com/N/F/news/2004/03/24/186351.1-lg.jpg
http://www.bomengen.com/gm/velite/Velite_1_web.jpg
http://www.bomengen.com/gm/velite/Velite_2_web.jpg

BUICK VELITE: A NEW EXPRESSION OF PREMIUM AMERICAN STYLE.

Detroit March 24, 2004; Restrained extravagance. Two seemingly incompatible words that nonetheless convey the spirit of the Buick Velite, a four-seat convertible that envelops its passengers in a rich, elegant environment while forging new ground in the exclusive territory of expressive, upscale rear-drive cars. The Velite is the first American demonstration of GM's all-new premium, global, rear-wheel drive vehicle architecture. Buick will unveil the Velite concept at the New York Auto Show in April. "Velite is a new expression of Buick's longstanding heritage in understated yet sophisticated design," said Anne Asensio, Executive Director GM Advanced Design. "While certainly an expression of premium American style, the Velite's impressive stance and overall presence emphasize a sumptuous driving experience that further pushes Buick on to the center of the world stage of luxurious touring cars."

crash

03-25-2004, 03:14 PM

Is that another Kappa Architecture car?

mh_WRX

03-25-2004, 03:19 PM

That's GM's new Mid and full size platform the Zeta. It will be the bassis for the 06/07 GTO and a few other cars. It's the one the Insignia was built on.

BigElm

03-25-2004, 04:09 PM

Originally posted by mh_WRX
http://www.theautochannel.com/N/F/news/2004/03/24/186351.1-lg.jpg
http://www.bomengen.com/gm/velite/Velite_1_web.jpg
http://www.bomengen.com/gm/velite/Velite_2_web.jpg

BUICK VELITE: A NEW EXPRESSION OF PREMIUM AMERICAN STYLE.

Detroit March 24, 2004; Restrained extravagance. Two seemingly incompatible words that nonetheless convey the spirit of the Buick Velite, a four-seat convertible that envelops its passengers in a rich, elegant environment while forging new ground in the exclusive territory of expressive, upscale rear-drive cars. The Velite is the first American demonstration of GM's all-new premium, global, rear-wheel drive vehicle architecture. Buick will unveil the Velite concept at the New York Auto Show in April. "Velite is a new expression of Buick's longstanding heritage in understated yet sophisticated design," said Anne Asensio, Executive Director GM Advanced Design. "While certainly an expression of premium American style, the Velite's impressive stance and overall presence emphasize a sumptuous driving experience that further pushes Buick on to the center of the world stage of luxurious touring cars."

The front says Cadillac SLX but the rear says.. "You want some of this punk?!" :D

Coati

03-25-2004, 04:22 PM

Originally posted by Blitzkrieg
I tend to agree with you, The golf is just one big overweight piece of metal. VW needs to get their act togethor and bring over the true successor to old school golf, the pollo. :D

BlitZ

Er ... POLO. Pollo means chicken.:lol:

Alpha1

03-25-2004, 08:17 PM

http://www.cardesignnews.com/news/2004/040325bmw-1series/images/bmw-1series01.jpg

http://www.cardesignnews.com/news/2004/040325bmw-1series/images/bmw-1series04.jpg

This is the standard for the new Impreza 5 door

Hazdaz

03-25-2004, 08:55 PM

I will KILL anyone that repeats this, but thats one nice looking Buick. Especially the ass-end and rims. Looks like its got some crud in its eyes - but still quite nice overall. Must have been touched by Lutz.

JaySee

03-25-2004, 10:12 PM

Since when is the impreza getting a 5-door? Or for any hatch for that matter? I'd like a 3-door STi.

amdmaxx

03-26-2004, 09:07 AM

2005 G35 sedan and coupe

Dear 001,

I heard from my internal Infiniti source that the 2005 G35 sedan and coupe will have some major revisions:

1. 20 hp more HP…280 and 300 respectively.

2. Revised/upgraded interiors from the b-pillar forward.

3. More features standard for the same price

4. New wheel styles

5. Better stereo

mh_WRX

03-26-2004, 09:37 AM

There will also be a new generation of Infiniti M cars, the M45 and M35. There is even the possibility of a M56 soon.

mh_WRX

03-26-2004, 09:58 AM

Not sure if this has been posted yet, but....

http://www.sub300.com/gm/g6models.jpg

SUBE555

03-26-2004, 10:02 AM

Originally posted by JaySee
Since when is the impreza getting a 5-door? Or for any hatch for that matter? I'd like a 3-door STi.

Where have you been since, oh 1993/4?

JaySee

03-26-2004, 10:48 AM

U mean my WAGON? There's a diff from a WAGON and a 5-door hatch. Mazda 3, BMW1 is a 5 door hatch. Impreza = WAGON. Longer cargo area and side windows behind the rear passenger doors.

mh_WRX

03-26-2004, 02:12 PM

The full set of the Velite press realease pics:

edit - files have been locked by owner

mh_WRX

03-26-2004, 02:14 PM

edit - files have been locked by owner

mh_WRX

03-26-2004, 02:15 PM

edit - files have been locked by owner

AWDPilot

03-26-2004, 02:37 PM

looks like a solstice to me :rolleyes:

Alpha1

03-26-2004, 04:59 PM

2004 Mazda 3 5-Door
2004 Infiniti G35X, 2004 Toyota Corolla S

By THE EDITORS OF AUTOWEEK

http://www.autoweek.com/weekart/2004/0322/0322-dl-mazda3.jpg

2004 MAZDA 3 5-DOOR
DATE IN FLEET: March 3-17
AS-TESTED PRICE: $17,445
POWERTRAIN: 2.3-liter I4; fwd, five-speed manual
OUTPUT: 160 hp @ 6500 rpm, 150 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
CURB WEIGHT: 2826 pounds

RAYNAL: How cool is this? I have always liked little wagons, and I loved zipping around in this thing. It's good-looking inside and out, well built, has good power (above 4000 rpm at least) and nifty handling. It's a hoot around town, composed and quiet, with excellent steering. I loved it. A way-cool car at a fair price.

Since the new Focus is coming on this platform, that is good news for Ford's small car. Until Honda comes up with a Civic Si wagon or Toyota does a Corolla S wagon, this is about the only game in town.

NEFF: This is a car I not only get a kick out of driving, but for which I find myself longing. After days behind the wheel of two-ton, self-important luxo-cruisers, all I want to do is pound my head against a wall and rail against all that's wrong in the world. "Stop clearing the rain forests! Save the whale! Equality for all! I just want to drive!" I could care less about being coddled. I don't need vents with automated covers. I want to push one button to change the radio station. And cloth seats are just fine, thank you. I can think of nothing that makes me cringe like getting behind the wheel of a car costing a buck only to find that it's an automaton, driver not required.

Driving the Mazda 3 cleanses the palate of over-garnished automotive fare. It's the ballpark hot dog to the luxury car's filet de boeuf: straight-up, honest, to the point yet tasty. It responds beautifully to aggressive steering inputs. Shifting is easy. And power is more than adequate so long as you keep the revs up-even so, the 2.3 has more low-end torque than most small-car motors of its ilk. It simply does everything I want a car to do, the way I want a car to do it. The hatchback just makes it that much more versatile.

http://www.autoweek.com/weekart/2004/0322/0322-dl-g35x.jpg

2004 INFINITI G35X
DATE IN FLEET: March 3-17
AS-TESTED PRICE: $37,280
POWERTRAIN: 3.5-liter V6; awd, five-speed automatic
OUTPUT: 260 hp @ 6000 rpm, 260 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm
CURB WEIGHT: 3677 pounds

MORRISON: I've said it before: The G35 is a sport sedan I'd take in a flash over a BMW 325i. The BMW holds a slight edge in overall refinement, comfort and ride quality, but the G35 has got the lock on the all-important fun category. It has a great engine, great steering, great brakes and great chassis.

As much as I liked this X version, though, I don't see a real need for it. I'm not saying Infiniti shouldn't offer the option, I just wouldn't shell out the extra $1,800. I'd rather buy a set of snow tires and rims and save a few bucks. That way, the car keeps its rear-drive, tail-out character and checks in about 300 pounds lighter.

http://www.autoweek.com/cat_print.mv?port_code=autoweek&cat_code=carboard&loc_code=index&content_code=02448871&999251295

StormRider

03-26-2004, 06:03 PM

Originally posted by Alpha1
2004 Mazda 3 5-Door

http://www.autoweek.com/weekart/2004/0322/0322-dl-mazda3.jpg

HONEY, I SHRANK THE MURANO!

JaySee

03-26-2004, 07:55 PM

That buick looks like a Lexus SC430

Redneck Ricer

03-26-2004, 08:02 PM

Originally posted by gibjer
looks like a solstice to me :rolleyes:

a lot bigger though. This buick is more chrysler sebring size, with a useable back seat. the solstice goes towards the miata size, small, lightweight (relatively) and no backseat :)

but you can see the family resemblance :) not a bad car though, i woudl not mind seeing it on the road...

p-rex

mh_WRX

03-29-2004, 10:37 AM

They tell you what size engine..lol...
3 ports on each side means a 6...So the new RWD full size will have 4 ports.

subyfanatic

03-29-2004, 04:51 PM

Not for the US but, still a very nice car.

Vauxhall's Ferrari Beater

Meet the Vauxhall with a better power-to-weight ratio than a Ferrari 360M. This outrageous sports car is called the S Sport VX320, and as the name suggests, it is a mighty 320bhp version of the lightweight VX220.

Available this summer and weighing only 900kg, the sportster has a supercharged 3.0-litre V6, giving a power-to-weight ratio of 356bhp per tonne. It has a re-engineered chassis and should be capable of 0-60mph in four seconds, with a 160mph top speed. The car draws inspiration from Vauxhall's EcoSpeedster concept

While the VX320 isn't officially endorsed by Vauxhall, the firm has given tacit backing to S Sport, of Royston, Herts. Bosses from both firms are in talks about supplying the model as a complete machine for around £45,000. However, initially it will be available only through Allon White Sports Cars (0845 3457666) as a conversion. That will cost £18,000-£20,000 on a new or used VX220.

http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/picture_library/dir_28/car_portal_pic_14147.jpg?4252

mh_WRX

03-30-2004, 04:51 PM

looks like there is more than one Velite around,
This one is black with a grey interior
http://x.wieck.com/pv/WKA/2004/03/29/WKA2004032940175_pv.jpg

I think this is more than a show car, I think these are preproduction prototypes.

WRSport

03-30-2004, 05:03 PM

mh_WRX

Your post is causing people to see login prompts.

mh_WRX

03-30-2004, 05:17 PM

looks like the other Velite press photo's have been locked. It will be fixed shortly.

aspera, you will need to change your posts as well.

BigElm

03-30-2004, 05:51 PM

^ I concur :)

Kuro

03-30-2004, 08:05 PM

I love Autoweek for the best rumors.:banana:

http://autoweek.com/weekart/2004/0405/volta.jpg

Toyota's Volta sports car concept may be basis for next Supra

By AUTOWEEK

Is Toyota's Volta show-stopper the next-gen Supra?

Sources tell AutoWeek that Italdesign-Giugiaro’s Toyota Alessandro Volta hybrid gas-electric sports car, named our Most Significant car at the Geneva motor show (AW, March 15), is even more significant than we could have imagined.

Word is the high-performance hybrid has been spotted circling the Toyota test track in Arizona at speeds in excess of 180 mph and that the car is actually a mildly disguised version of a new Supra.

While a 400-hp hybrid sports car powertrain remains possible by 2007, we also hear rumors of a wild 500-hp mid-engine V8 Supra that would sell for more than $100,000.

amdmaxx

03-30-2004, 08:42 PM

GT-R is sooo dead is the rumors above r true (flame suit on)..

Alpha1

03-30-2004, 09:01 PM

http://us1.webpublications.com.au/static/images/articles/i1011/101143_00mg.jpg
http://us1.webpublications.com.au/static/images/articles/i1011/101143_2mg.jpg
http://us1.webpublications.com.au/static/images/articles/i1011/101143_3mg.jpg

Awesome wagon, Alpha 1

mh_WRX

03-31-2004, 06:13 PM

http://www.theautochannel.com/N/F/news/2004/03/31/187257.1-lg.jpg

2005 Nissan Altima SE-R

Here's what's known

4 valves per cylinder; w/CVTC
HP 250+
Tq 250+
6-speed manual
Higher final Drive of 2.440
Higher spring rates all around
New Sways Front and Rear
Tire size is P225/45R18
Xenon lights

GARDENA, Calif.--March 31, 2004--Forged 18-inch wheels. Three-gauge center instrument cluster. Aggressive front fascia. Rear spoiler. Painted brake calipers. High-flow mufflers. Large diameter chrome dual exhaust finishers. Black leather-appointed sport seats. The Nissan Altima SE-R doesn't look like any previous Altima because clearly it's not. When Nissan launched the redesigned 2005 Altima in February 2004, it held one surprising element back -- the new Altima SE-R, which goes on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide in mid-September.

"The letters SE-R have come to represent fast, affordable and fun to Nissan performance enthusiasts," said Mark McNabb, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. "Until now, our SE-R editions have been limited to the Sentra line. With the new Altima, the SE-R not only grows up, it reaches a wider audience."

The Altima SE-R is the sixth model in the 2005 Altima lineup (others include 2.5, 2.5 S, 2.5 SL, 3.5 SE and 3.5 SL), yet in reality it stands alone with a special list of features and equipment designed for the sports enthusiast.

"The Altima SE-R is targeted at the performance buyer who wants it all -- but wants it for under $30,000," said McNabb. "The Altima SE-R is all about providing a great driving experience for enthusiasts without money to burn."

The SE-R model builds on the substantial refinements introduced for the 2005 model year, including styling enhancements and greatly revamped interior.

Serious, Sporty and Functional Inside and Out

For 2005, every Altima model features new smoked headlamps and taillights, a restyled smooth front fascia with a distinctive raised hood and new Nissan family grille -- which gives Altima a bolder, more athletic look than the 2004 design.

The Altima SE-R adds an array of special styling features, including a new front fascia, headlight bezel coloring, compact fog lights and dark window molding coloring. In the rear, the SE-R stands out with a new rear fascia and spoiler, smoked taillights and large dual exhaust finishers. Also visible are the new side sill spoilers, silver painted front and rear disc brake calipers, with the SE-R logo on the front calipers. SE-R badging is located on the rear of the vehicle.

The Altima interior incorporates all of the upgrades for the 2005 model, including a new instrument panel design with fine vision meter illumination, center console, trim finishes, 3-spoke steering wheel, seat material, headliner and added chrome accents and chrome door handles.

The most prominent difference between the SE-R and other 2005 Altima models is the three-pod center-mounted gauge package, similar to that found on the legendary Nissan Z(R), with volt meter, oil pressure and fuel consumption gauges. Other changes include sport-shaped front seats and headrests with perforated red or silver leather inserts and matching stitching on the seats, steering wheel and shift knob, dark chrome trim treatment and aluminum pedals. The front seats are also heated, as are the SE-R's outside mirrors. Altima SE-Rs equipped with the special short throw linkage 6-speed manual transmission also feature a new gearshift knob.

Additional features shared with all Altimas include a power port inside the center console storage area for a mobile phone, large cup holders and power windows and locks (windows can be opened remotely via key fob for cabin venting).

The SE-R also comes standard with a Bose(R) premium audio system with 8 speakers and AM/FM/in-dash 6-disc CD changer with RDS, speed-sensitive volume control and steering wheel audio controls.

From a safety standpoint, the Altima SE-R comes with standard Zone Body Construction, dual-stage supplemental air bags that sense seatbelt use and collision severity and deploy accordingly, available front-seat side-impact supplemental air bags and roof-mounted side-impact curtain air bags for front- and rear-seat occupant head protection. Other standard safety features include front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters and the LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) child seat anchors and tether system.

Performance Worthy of the SE-R Heritage

At the core of the SE-R philosophy since the beginning is performance. The Altima SE-R's standard 3.5-liter DOHC 24-valve V6 engine will offer a higher level of tuning than the Altima 3.5 SL or 3.5 SE's 250 horsepower (final figures will be released closer to on-sale date). The SE-R also offers a performance exhaust system with large outlet pipes. The 3.5-liter V6 is part of the VQ engine series, which has been recognized as one of the "Ten Best Engines" by Ward's Auto World magazine for 10 consecutive years and features continuously variable valve timing, modular engine design, microfinished crank journals and cam lobes, molybdenum coated lightweight pistons and electronically controlled throttles.

The SE-R model is offered with a choice of 6-speed manual or 5-speed electronically controlled automatic with manual shift mode. Both automatic and manual transmission-equipped SE-Rs offer a traction control system, which uses a combination of throttle and fuel cutoff (along with shift schedule on A/T models) to help aid traction in off-the-line starts and slippery situations.

The 2005 Altima SE-R adds performance-tuned front struts and rear shocks, stiffer front and rear springs and thicker front and rear stabilizer bars to the Altima's advanced suspension. The front suspension design utilizes a cradle-type frame with an offset coil spring and lower transverse link layout provides better handling and riding performance and an extensive use of aluminum parts. The rear multi-link independent suspension, based on that used in the Japanese-market Nissan Skyline, separates the rear shocks and springs for reduced friction and the shocks are in line with the centers of the rear wheels, providing better damping and less harshness.

The SE-R comes with sticky 225/45R18 W-speed rated summer tires mounted on unique 18-inch forged alloy wheels.

Braking is provided by large (12.60 x 1.10t front, 11.5 x 0.35t rear) 4-wheel disc brakes with standard 4-wheel, 4-channel, 4-sensor Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA).

Colors and Options

The 2005 Nissan Altima SE-R is available in five exterior colors only -- Black, Silver, Smoke, Blue and an SE-R only Red. The interior is offered with black leather-appointed seats with choice of red or silver inserts only. The only options are the 5-speed automatic transmission, side air bags and Traction Control System.

"The Altima SE-R hits a critical position between the tuner-style Sentra SE-R and the sporty Maxima SE, which offers more refinement," said McNabb. "The Altima SE-R is more aggressive, yet it has all the core attributes and affordability of an Altima. It's the sports sedan for enthusiasts who've grown up -- but not too much."

At a Glance: 2005 Nissan Altima SE-R

When the redesigned 2005 Altima was launched in February 2004, Nissan held back one surprise – the addition of a new, first-ever Altima SE-R model. The Altima SE-R is the sixth model in the 2005 Altima line and shares all of the refinements (including new exterior and interior styling) with the others. And then some.

The Altima SE-R’s standard 3.5-liter V6 engine has been retuned to a higher level of performance and the suspension has been enhanced with performance-tuned front struts and rear shocks, stiffer front and rear springs and thicker front and rear stabilizer bars. The SE-R comes with 225/45R18 W-speed rated tires and 18-inch forged aluminum-alloy wheels.

The SE-R’s exterior offers a number of special features, including new front and rear fascias, compact fog lights, new rear spoiler and side sill spoilers and large dual exhaust finishers. Inside, the SE-R features sport-shaped leather-appointed front seats with red or silver leather inserts, dark chrome trim and a three-pod center-mounted gauge package, which is similar to that found on the legendary 350Z.

The new Altima SE-R is scheduled to go on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide in mid-September 2004.

Highlights of the 2005 Altima SE-R include

Body
Unique front and rear fascias
Unique rear spoiler and side sill spoilers
Restyled smooth front fascia with a distinctive raised hood design
New Nissan family grille with dark chrome treatment
Standard HID xenon headlights with unique bezel color treatment
Compact fog lights and unique taillight treatment
Special outside window molding color treatment
Large diameter chrome dual exhaust finishers
Available in five exterior colors –Black, Silver, Smoke, Blue and SE-R only Red
Engine and Driveline
250-plus horsepower 3.5-liter DOHC 24-vale V6 with 250-plus lb-ft of torque and dual exhaust
Modular cylinder head design, lightweight pistons, continuously variable valve timing, variable induction system
SE-R badged engine cover
Choice of 6-speed manual or 5-speed electronically controlled automatic transmissions
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Suspension, Steering and Braking
Performance-tuned suspension with recalibrated front struts and rear shocks, stiffer front and rear springs and thicker front and rear stabilizer bars
4-wheel independent suspension with extensive use of aluminum components, featuring a rear multi-link suspension design
Exclusive 18-inch forged aluminum-alloy wheel design
225/45R18 W-rated summer tires
4-wheel disc brakes with standard 4-wheel ABS, Brake Assist (BA) and Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD)
Large 12.6x1.1ft front brakes with silver painted front and rear calipers, SE-R logo on front calipers
Interior Features
Sport-shaped leather-appointed front seats with perforated red or silver leather inserts
Red or silver front seat and steering wheel stitching, heated front seats
New instrument panel design, center console, dark chrome trim finishes, seat materials and headliner
Three-pod center-mounted gauge package (volts, oil pressure, fuel consumption)
Aluminum pedals
Gauges feature a fine vision meter illumination system for better visibility
New 3-spoke steering wheel design
Standard BoseÒ Premium audio system with eight speakers, in-dash 6-disc CD autochanger
Safety
Dual-stage supplemental air bags with seat belt sensors
Available front-seat side-impact supplemental air bags and roof-mounted side-impact curtain air bags for front and rear occupants
Seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) child seat anchors and tether system
Zone Body Construction

Models and Manufacturing
Offered in one well-equipped SE-R model, choice of 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmissions
Assembled by Nissan North America Manufacturing Smyrna & Decherd Tennessee Plants

mh_WRX

03-31-2004, 06:41 PM

more new M5 Photo's

http://www.uploadit.org/ascariss/m51.jpg
http://www.uploadit.org/ascariss/m52.jpg

mh_WRX

03-31-2004, 06:57 PM

Better Pic

http://www.nissannews.com/images/product_jump/big_autos/05_AltimaSE-RJump_big01.jpg

rsholland

03-31-2004, 07:46 PM

they've tamed the torque steer, which is a real problem with the V6 Altimas and Maximas...

Bob

Ghostrider600

04-01-2004, 12:48 AM

Originally posted by mh_WRX
Better Pic

http://www.nissannews.com/images/product_jump/big_autos/05_AltimaSE-RJump_big01.jpg

Pity it's not an Altima SE-R X AWD...then it'd be perfect...
(and no torque steer either).

username

04-01-2004, 01:15 AM

http://response.jp/issue/2004/0401/article59092_1.images/63987.jpg

translation:

New model | motor show < The New York motor show 04 > New model HONDA ' legend ' 4WD sport! 2004 April 1st HONDA exhibits on the 1st, the New York automatic show (the New York motor show), this fall Acura ' RL ' of full model change schedule/Japanese name HONDA ' legend ' prototype and Acura ' RL prototype ', that it announced. With RL prototype, worldwide first four wheel drive power unrestricted control system "SH-AWD" is loaded, "driving such as the revolving efficiency and high vehicle stability which is faithful to the steering wheel operation of the driver pleasure" is actualized at high dimension, that you say. The New York automatic show on the 7th of press day commencement, releases to 18 days. << Takagi Hiroshi >>

SH-AWD:

New 4WD system of HONDA... four wheel drive power unrestricted control "SH-AWD" 2004 April 1st As for HONDA, adjusting to travelling circumstance with the control of driving force distribution of the front rear wheel of the worldwide beginning and the independence control of rear wheel left and right driving force, four wheel drive system "SH-AWD which distributes the driving force which is optimum to four wheel everything instantaneously unrestrictedly: It developed Super Handling All-Wheel-Drive, "on the 1st announced. As for SH-AWD, you say that it is the system which actualizes the revolving efficiency and high vehicle stability which is faithful to the steering wheel operation of the driver. This fall Acura RL ' of sale (North America) with HONDA ' legend ' (Japan) from you adopt. Prototype of Acura RL is exhibited to the New York motor show which starts from 7 days. SH-AWD judges the driving force distribution to the optimum front and back left and right wheel from handling of the car of the driver and travelling circumstance. Front and back distribution from 30:70 between 70:30, furthermore rear wheel left and right distribution from 100:0 between up to 0:100 is controlled in the stepless floor with "the direct electromagnetic clutch" inside the rear differential. By the fact that it utilizes even in revolution not only in order to run driving force to front and back, you aimed toward the improvement of maneuverability. << Takagi Hiroshi >>

SUBE555

04-01-2004, 01:42 AM

Originally posted by Ghostrider600
Pity it's not an Altima SE-R X AWD...then it'd be perfect...
(and no torque steer either).

At least have a torsen front LSD to help handle that torque steer. That should help reduce it a good bit.

With that new Acura, Altima sporty edition and all, we might see some revisions to the new Leg GT sooner than later.

BTW, anyone notice cars are starting to move backaway from those squarish/G35-ish whatever you want to call it, back towards the bird of prey eyes headlamps. ;) Gotta love it. :disco:

amdmaxx

04-01-2004, 09:22 AM

username is BACK!!!..

Beaverboy

04-01-2004, 10:58 AM

Bahh.. torque steer is fun. It's a little reminder that you have too much power. :devil:

amdmaxx

04-01-2004, 11:32 AM

u nutz about tire concepts and torque steer...

Beaverboy

04-01-2004, 01:16 PM

nutz.. that smee. :banana:

Alpha1

04-01-2004, 09:16 PM

http://www.canadiandriver.com/news/04images/mazda6ribcut_1.jpg

I saw my first Mazda 6 wagon today. V6 just like this one. The 6 wagon is a much better looking car than the sedan and appears to be an impressive foe to the new Legacy wagon.

rsholland

04-01-2004, 09:20 PM

From what I've read, it sounds like a pretty slick set-up, and unlike other Honda AWD systems, this one is full-time AWD. Reportedly it can shift the front-to-rear power bias from 70/30 to 30/70, and shift the rear wheel power left to right. In fact 100% of the rear wheel power can be shifted to one rear wheel.

http://www.vtec.net/news/news-item?news_item_id=217602

Bob

Gecko2k2

04-02-2004, 04:02 AM

I'm not sure the spec-to-spec comparison of the RL's AWD system versus Subaru's but from what I know off the top of my head about both of them, it looks like it does a hell of a lot more than Subarus. Unfortunately, that's because its $20,000 more I guess.

NeoteriX

04-02-2004, 04:51 AM

Originally posted by Gecko2k2
it looks like it does a hell of a lot more than Subarus.

Yeah, because it is. Right now, conventional Subaru AWD technology, and most other cars too, involves only longitudinal power transfer. There's a center dif that can transfer power front and rear. A viscous coupling center dif on the non STi 5MT manuals, and a electronically controlled clutch on 4EAT automatics. Throw in VTD/DCCD, and you've got a more complex electronic hydraulically controlled clutch, but still only longitundal power transfer.

Audis use a Torsen center differential, other cars use open diffs with clever usage of the brakes to manage torque transfer.

The WRX, Outback, and STi also feature limited slip differentials to assist in lateral power transfer. The technology is very tractor level complexity, and they work independently of one another -- one doesn't know what the other is doing.

From what I gather, on this new system, the center and rear dif are fashioned together, electronically managed, and tied in with several accelerometers, yaw sensors, etc. and is able to calculate and shunt power fowards/backwards/laterally and all in a coordinated fashion. Interesting indeed.

SUBE555

04-02-2004, 12:25 PM

Or we could just use 3 Torsen/Helical units and throw the electronics by the wayside. ;)

BigElm

04-02-2004, 12:43 PM

Originally posted by rsholland
From what I've read, it sounds like a pretty slick set-up, and unlike other Honda AWD systems, this one is full-time AWD. Reportedly it can shift the front-to-rear power bias from 70/30 to 30/70, and shift the rear wheel power left to right. In fact 100% of the rear wheel power can be shifted to one rear wheel.

http://www.vtec.net/news/news-item?news_item_id=217602

Bob

After watching the video.. it seems to be a very impressive system. Almost to the point that I'd fear how much it would cost to repair it if it goes faulty :eek: Yeah.. I know.. warranty... :p

Interesting that Subaru hasn't tried to move their AWD into this arena... I guess they don't have a choice now... either that or lose business. This AWD, if reliable, will spank alot of systems out there now...

SUBE555

04-02-2004, 12:54 PM

It does sound impressive but costly to repair in the same right if something were to go wrong. All those electro-mechanical systems, yikes.

As of the information I've seen, 3 Torsen/Helical units would actually work rather nice for Subaru in many instances, or just add a helical unit up front for increased handling ability to those already with the viscous center and rear though as I've seen viscous coupling units just aren't quite up to snuf with the torsen type units. That's why we hear about the quaife units and many racers having good results the the quaife.

rsholland

04-02-2004, 02:17 PM

Isn't that what Subaru uses on their automatics?

I'm sure Acura would not be releasing this if there's any question about reliabilty. They have an excellent record in that respect. Also warrantys on premium brands are longer than those of mainstream brands, so that helps too.

Bob

Chromer

04-02-2004, 02:42 PM

Originally posted by SUBE555
It does sound impressive but costly to repair in the same right if something were to go wrong. All those electro-mechanical systems, yikes.

As of the information I've seen, 3 Torsen/Helical units would actually work rather nice for Subaru in many instances, or just add a helical unit up front for increased handling ability to those already with the viscous center and rear though as I've seen viscous coupling units just aren't quite up to snuf with the torsen type units. That's why we hear about the quaife units and many racers having good results the the quaife.

I'd rather have the VC, as it won't send all the torque to the lifted wheel. That's not something tarmac racers normally have to deal with, but it's something that happens in normal driving with snow quite a bit.

And compared to the active systems, give me the VC-s too. It works, it's transparent, it's dead simple, and it's almost impossible to break. Given how many electronic doohickeys start to die on a car after 4 or 5 years, "passive" systems have a certain appeal.

notbob

04-02-2004, 02:49 PM

Originally posted by mh_WRX
looks like there is more than one Velite around,
This one is black with a grey interior
http://x.wieck.com/pv/WKA/2004/03/29/WKA2004032940175_pv.jpg

I think this is more than a show car, I think these are preproduction prototypes.

THAT INTERIOR LOOKS PRETTY BLACK TOO :D

RA29

04-02-2004, 04:12 PM

For all you anti-electronics people, your car's engine is all electronically controlled too, you know. So is everything else, like cruise control, aircon, lights etc.

An electronic item doesnt mean that it is worse off in reliability.

BigElm

04-02-2004, 04:15 PM

Originally posted by rsholland
Isn't that what Subaru uses on their automatics?

I'm sure Acura would not be releasing this if there's any question about reliabilty. They have an excellent record in that respect. Also warrantys on premium brands are longer than those of mainstream brands, so that helps too.

Bob

Yeah, but I would suspect that the car will be pretty heavy. In addition, I don't think I can put my trust on an AWD system that is almost fully controlled by sensors and electronics. One sensor blown, can cause a serious, if not, deadly crash... Yeah, yeah, Acura is very reliable... but it's not untouchable. I think if more of the 'mechanics' were involved as opposed to the revolutionary computers and electronics, maybe it would be more trustworthy...

I don't know... does that make sense? :huh:

BigElm

04-02-2004, 04:17 PM

Originally posted by RA29
For all you anti-electronics people, your car's engine is all electronically controlled too, you know. So is everything else, like cruise control, aircon, lights etc.

An electronic item doesnt mean that it is worse off in reliability.

Um.. I think you're missing the point. What you're saying is not something new. I would think the majority of the people here know that. If you read carefully, we're talking about the AWD. Not the ECU, nor lights, nor cruise control!!!

rsholland

04-02-2004, 04:18 PM

Originally posted by BigElm
Yeah, but I would suspect that the car will be pretty heavy. In addition, I don't think I can put my trust on an AWD system that is almost fully controlled by sensors and electronics. One sensor blown, can cause a serious, if not, deadly crash... Yeah, yeah, Acura is very reliable but not untouchable. I think if more of the 'mechanics' were involved as opposed to the revolutionary computers and electronics, maybe it would be more trustworthy...

I don't know... does that make sense? :huh:

It's probably not much more complex (or heavier) than an Outback VDC.

Bob

Chromer

04-02-2004, 05:25 PM

Originally posted by BigElm
I don't think I can put my trust on an AWD system that is almost fully controlled by sensors and electronics. One sensor blown, can cause a serious, if not, deadly crash... Yeah, yeah, Acura is very reliable... but it's not untouchable. I think if more of the 'mechanics' were involved as opposed to the revolutionary computers and electronics, maybe it would be more trustworthy...

I don't know... does that make sense? :huh:

See also: WRX ABS investigation threads, STI ECU ping reflash threads...

Software-controlled active systems are just inherently more complex than mechanical systems. Not that I want to go back to rebuilding carbs, but it takes serious effort to get these active systems working "right" in all conceivable input states... And "right" includes testing for multiple failed components and complete control-system failure in the case of AWD systems.

I'm not anti-electronics. I just deal with the results of insufficient software testing as a major part of my job.

Alpha1

04-02-2004, 10:09 PM

Originally posted by Chromer
See also: WRX ABS investigation threads, STI ECU ping reflash threads...

Software-controlled active systems are just inherently more complex than mechanical systems. Not that I want to go back to rebuilding carbs, but it takes serious effort to get these active systems working "right" in all conceivable input states... And "right" includes testing for multiple failed components and complete control-system failure in the case of AWD systems.

I'm not anti-electronics. I just deal with the results of insufficient software testing as a major part of my job.

Subaru's all-wheel drive technology is the envy of the automotive manufacturing industry. Honda and the like are chasing Subaru's symetric drive systems. There are no drivetrain systems that are as affordable to own and operate, while providing the level of performance these great systems are capable.

Subaru has no real competition in producing all-wheel drive vehicles in the compact and midsize car market. Subaru's challenge to to produce more types of vehicles with their technology and broaden the market acceptence. This is why we are seeing concepts like the B9 and the B11

Bottom line, Subaru needs a greater selection of cars, more fuel efficient power systems (hybird & diesel) and finally a large or full size platform. Subaru could easily produce a family of cars to compete with the Acura RL, the Volvo S80 and any other similarly priced and sized vehicle.

What will be the tell of the tape in the US market; will Chyrsler be successful with the high value large body 300C and Magnum cars? Will VW finally become successful mass marketing diesel powered vehicles? If both of these situation yeild success, every manufacture will need to act accordingly. Alpha1

SUBE555

04-02-2004, 10:17 PM

Mmmmm. Hybrid Turbo-Diesel. :) 50+mpg w/ AWD and drivability like any 2.5 NA model. :cool: Would even be game for that if I did a lot of commuting.

Think they need to start this in the Outback line though, broadest acceptance possible.

Kuro

04-02-2004, 10:47 PM

I don't know if this has been posted or not but whatever...

Mercedes Mclaren P8:
http://www.autoweek.com/weekart/2004/0223/p8benz400main.jpg
http://www.autoweek.com/weekart/2004/0223/p8benz400rear.jpg

rsholland

04-03-2004, 11:15 AM

http://www.honda.co.jp/HDTV/news/2004-4040401a/

Anybody see this video? It's 10:45 long and in Japanese, but it illustrates how this system works quite well, even if you don't understand Japanese.

Also interesting, is the car in the video with the SH-AWD is not a '05 RL, but instead a LHD V6 US-spec Accord! If Honda decides to equip our Accords with this system, it definitely will spell trouble for the Legacy.

Bob

zuriel

04-03-2004, 01:14 PM

Ever since this Altima SE-R news broke (and, to a lesser extent, before the news) I've been hearing rumors of an AWD Maxima performance variant. Now I hear people calling it Maxima SE-R, but I've heard the rumors of some form of the Skyline's AWD system being put to use on various Nissan FWD models, and obviously the 350Z, ever since they made the move to the new (Skyline based/influenced) platform.

Anyone think there's any merit to the rumors? Anyone hear any of the same rumors?

Ghostrider600

04-03-2004, 09:43 PM

Originally posted by rsholland
I'm sure Acura would not be releasing this if there's any question about reliabilty. They have an excellent record in that respect. Also warrantys on premium brands are longer than those of mainstream brands, so that helps too.

Bob

Pity only the RL gets the AWD treatment.

The New TL would be a KILLER with AWD to tame the 270HP-induced torque steer and understeer....

And an AWD TSX (with the Accord V6) would be well-received too.

---

As to Nissan/Infiniti, the 350Z supposedly already has the ability to take most of the G35X's AWD system....GT-R? :D

rsholland

04-03-2004, 10:24 PM

Originally posted by Ghostrider600
Pity only the RL gets the AWD treatment.

The New TL would be a KILLER with AWD to tame the 270HP-induced torque steer and understeer....

And an AWD TSX (with the Accord V6) would be well-received too.

I think it will happen eventually. Start with the flagship RL, then have it trickle down to lower level models. I could easily see it as an option in a year or so, maybe even standard across the entire Acura lineup.

Bob

Ghostrider600

04-04-2004, 06:03 PM

Originally posted by rsholland
I think it will happen eventually. Start with the flagship RL, then have it trickle down to lower level models. I could easily see it as an option in a year or so, maybe even standard across the entire Acura lineup.

Bob

That is certainly the hope, though with the TL easily pushing 35k now, an AWD version would climb well out of Legacy territory (as I assume the current TL is already a notch above the New Legacy anyway).

A potential AWD TSX could take the role of Legacy-fighter.

mh_WRX

04-05-2004, 11:04 AM

The GT-R and G35R (4 door) should be making their debute (spy pic wide) any day now.

If the G34R is there, then there wouldn't be much point in a Maxima AWD. But they may do it for different Price Points and Starting trims.

As far as the FM and the FF chassis, while they are different, they also share they same basics and many mounting points so component sharing is possible.

Blitzkrieg

04-05-2004, 04:35 PM

http://www.autoweek.com/specials/2004_newyork/mustang/images/B07u3751.jpg
http://www.autoweek.com/specials/2004_newyork/mustang/images/MustangGT-RConcept_32.jpg

looks like for is trying to beat nissan to the punch of a new GT-R.

Ford mustang GT-R some of the searches are rummoring 440HP.

BlitZ

mh_WRX

04-05-2004, 05:05 PM

While I don't agree with the name, I like the fact the Mustang GT-R has the original Trans-Am colors and looks.

mh_WRX

04-05-2004, 05:09 PM

All-new 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt SS Supercharged Coupe - More Competition For Rice Rockets

http://www.theautochannel.com/N/F/news/2004/04/02/187619.2-lg.jpg

http://www.theautochannel.com/N/F/news/2004/04/02/187619.1-lg.jpg

2005 Chevrolet Cobalt SS

Detroit April 2, 2004; The 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt SS Supercharged Coupe is the high-performance model in the Cobalt family of coupes and sedans that will debut in the fourth quarter of 2004. The Cobalt SS Supercharged builds upon the expressive design and dynamic driving experience of the Cobalt Coupe and Coupe SS.

“The Cobalt SS Supercharged Coupe was developed to appeal to the tuner enthusiast,” said Pete Langenhorst, Chevrolet Cobalt marketing director. “We engineered from the very beginning all the key components to deliver an exciting driver’s high performance sport coupe – straight from the factory.”

Strong foundation - Body structure, chassis, suspension The Cobalt was created on a strong foundation. The rigid lower-dominant body structure is engineered as a single unit for mass efficiency and stiffness. The underbody uses high-strength steel as welded members in strategic locations for maximum strength, structural integrity, mass optimization and crashworthiness.

The Cobalt’s suspension tuning was refined at Germany’s famous Nürburgring, one of the world’s most challenging road courses with more than 170 turns in nearly 13 miles.

Cobalt SS Supercharged features a strut-type front suspension, semi-independent torsion beam rear suspension, and increased diameter front and rear stabilizer bars with tuned suspension bushings. In addition, the chassis and springs were stiffened, the spring rates and damping were specially tuned and the shock strut valving was modified for a responsive, sport suspension feel. The monotube rear shocks with 33-millimeter pistons are larger in diameter than those found on standard Cobalts. The coupe’s ride height also has been reduced by 10 millimeters. The electric power steering also is tuned for increased driver feedback.

Large brakes and wheels Cobalt SS Supercharged features four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes. The front disc rotors are 11.6 inches in diameter, which is approximately 1 inch larger than the rotors on standard Cobalt models. The rear drum brakes standard in other Cobalts were also replaced with disc brakes with 10.6-inch rotors. They are mounted on an all-new rear axle assembly that incorporates revised suspension geometry.

The SS Supercharged features larger, five-bolt wheel hubs, brake calipers and brake pads. The larger calipers and brake pads allow greater braking capacity and are proven performance parts found in other high-performance GM vehicles.

Cobalt SS Supercharged features the segment’s leading wheel size with 18-inch forged-steel alloy wheels and P215/45R18 Z-rated performance tires.

High-performance powertrain The Cobalt SS Supercharged Coupe features a race-inspired Ecotec 2.0-liter supercharged four-cylinder engine and five-speed manual transmission. Cobalt benefited from GM Racing’s successful Ecotec-powered cars competing in the NHRA Summit Sport Compact Racing Series with significant learnings transferred during the development of the Cobalt.

The Ecotec 2.0L SC four-cylinder engine delivers 205 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 200 lb.-ft. of torque at 4400 rpm. Compared to the Ecotec 2.2-liter I-4, the cam timing was altered significantly to raise the mid-range torque and to match it with the top-end power.

The engine includes an Eaton M62 helical roots-type supercharger and features an air-to-water intercooler to reduce the temperature of air entering the engine. The supercharger produces a maximum boost pressure of 12 pounds per square inch (psi).

The Ecotec 2.0L SC is mated to a five-speed manual transmission. The 240-millimeter clutch assembly is larger on the 2.0-liter supercharged I-4 than the other naturally aspirated Ecotecs. The five-speed has close-ratio gearing that is tailored to the power band of the 2.0-liter engine. To improve acceleration the final drive ratio is also shorter at 4.05:1. A short-throw shifter quickens the shifts and provides a more positive feel as well. The shifter’s travel is approximately 1 inch shorter than the shifter found in standard Cobalt models. Equal length transmission half shafts are also utilized to address torque steer in this front-drive car.

Distinctive design and features The exterior styling of the Cobalt SS Supercharged complements the performance aspects of the car. The front fascia features a large, deep air inlet and the rear fascia has a cutout for the large, chromed exhaust tip. Along with revised rocker moldings, the enhanced bodywork of the SS Supercharged visually lowers the coupe 1 inch. Halogen fog lamps are also included.

The Cobalt Supercharged SS comes standard with a unique, aggressive rear decklid spoiler. The coupe will offer five exterior body colors including Rally Yellow, Black, Orange Metallic, Victory Red and Arrival Blue Metallic.

The interior was also modified to complement the performance characteristics of the Cobalt SS Supercharged Coupe. The accelerator pedal was redesigned to enable heel-and-toe driving to improve driver feedback and response. The interior also features titanium-faced speedometer, tachometer and gauges in the instrument cluster, and an A pillar-mounted boost gauge to monitor supercharger performance.

The interior color is Ebony with satin nickel accents on the instrument panel, shifter base and doors. The front leather seats include color-keyed perforated inserts, driver-side manual lumbar adjuster, adjustable head restraint, and passenger-side seatback map pocket. In addition, there is a 60/40 split-bench rear seat with color-keyed inserts and a trunk pass-through.

Cobalt SS Supercharged Coupe offers a long list of standard features including air conditioning; power windows and locks; remote keyless entry; tilt steering wheel with mounted audio and cruise controls; electric rear defogger; CD player; MP3 playback; seven-speaker Pioneer premium sound system; and driver information center. Available features include side head curtain air bags, power sunroof, XM Satellite Radio and OnStar.

Beaverboy

04-05-2004, 06:05 PM

Originally posted by Chromer
I'd rather have the VC, as it won't send all the torque to the lifted wheel. That's not something tarmac racers normally have to deal with, but it's something that happens in normal driving with snow quite a bit. Yeah.. no kidding. Have you ever seen an Integra Type R try to get around in the snow? :lol: The VC is pretty dang reliable, predictable and simple. I see no use in over-complicating the driveline.

Originally posted by Blitzkrieg
http://www.autoweek.com/specials/2004_newyork/mustang/images/MustangGT-RConcept_32.jpg

looks like for is trying to beat nissan to the punch of a new GT-R.Somewhere, a Buell is missing it's headlights.

(I know they're standard elliptical projectors, I'm talking about the placement)

mh_WRX

04-05-2004, 06:13 PM

More picts...
The interior is fairly nice for a compact GM product.

http://x.wieck.com/pv/WKA/2004/03/31/WKA2004033150771_pv.jpg
http://x.wieck.com/pv/WKA/2004/03/31/WKA2004033150751_pv.jpg
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http://x.wieck.com/pv/WKA/2004/03/31/WKA2004033150708_pv.jpg
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http://x.wieck.com/pv/WKA/2004/03/31/WKA2004033150493_pv.jpg

mh_WRX

04-05-2004, 07:01 PM

http://www.allfordmustangs.com/artman/uploads/gtr3.jpg

How about this,

Mustang GT-R concept is race ready

By Eric Mayne / The Detroit News

DEARBORN — In the minds of the motoring public, the Mustang is just a thinly-veiled race car.

So, Ford Motor Co. is using this week’s New York International Auto Show to bare the soul of its Mustang icon with the GT-R, a concept vehicle that celebrates the car’s ties with speed and performance.

“It’s a full-blown racer,” said J Mays, Ford’s group vice president of design. “It has more power than any man has a right to aim down the road.”

Making its debut in the same city where the first Mustang was introduced at the 1964 World’s Fair, the concept car is based on the 2005 production model and hints at what might be seen on the track when race teams get their hands on the new pony car. Ford will begin building the production model in September at AutoAlliance Inc., the Flat Rock plant it shares with Mazda Motor Corp.

The GT-R is also an homage to the imaginations of Mustang owners who can’t resist the temptation to tinker.

“It’s a celebration of things that people have done to Mustang over the years,” Mays said. “Through 40 years, they have just kept taking them and changing them and customizing them and modifying them. So we’re just trying to stoke that fire a little bit before September.”

Fittingly, the concept car is powered by a 500-hp 5.0-liter V-8, which is based on a Ford “crate” engine — so named because it offers high performance in a box. Ford builds and sells the engines for $14,995 each to enthusiasts who want to do their own customizing.

And while the GT-R remains a concept car with outlandish features such as a Formula One-style steering wheel, wide racing tires and a race-proven six-speed transmission, it still has resonance for Mustang fans. More than 85 percent of the GT-R’s body structure comes from the car that will roll off the line with a starting price under $20,000.

The GT-R was built in Troy, Mich., by Saleen Specialty Vehicles, which has its own connection with Mustang. Its California-based parent company, Saleen Inc., is Ford’s largest Mustang customer. It buys and customizes about 1,000 Mustang models annually and resells them at prices ranging from $36,669 to $150,000.

http://www.detnews.com/pix/2004/04/04/biz/b004-MustangGT-R-0404n-4.jpg

Alpha1

04-05-2004, 10:14 PM

http://www.cardesignnews.com/news/2004/040402landrover-discovery/images/landrover-discovery06.jpg

http://www.cardesignnews.com/news/2004/040402landrover-discovery/images/landrover-discovery03.jpg

Apr 02, 2004 – The Land Rover Discovery 3 is an all-new, premium SUV replacing the segment-defining Discovery. Named LR3 in the North American market, it will make its debut at the New York International Auto Show on April 7 and on sale later this year.

Design

"The design of the Discovery 3 is derived from its capability. Everything you see has been done for a reason," said Land Rover design director Geoff Upex. "The priority was to give the passengers and driver a superb cabin environment, with more headroom and greater comfort. It has big, deep glazing, because that provides greater airiness and a better view."

It is also unambiguously a Land Rover. "An absolute priority was that nobody could mistake this vehicle for anything else," said Upex. "It had to look thoroughly modern, bold and distinctive."

Unique Land Rover design cues include its bold, geometric vertical and horizontal elements; stepped roof (to boost headroom); asymmetric rear tailgate (to reduce load height when the lower part of the tailgate is closed, and reduce reach-in distance when opened); the use of an air intake on only one side of the body (it’s all that was needed); and its large glazed areas.

Specification

The Discovery 3 introduces Land Rover’s Terrain Response system, previewed on the recent Range Stormer concept. This optimises driveability and comfort, as well as maximising traction. The driver chooses one of five terrain settings via a rotary switch on the centre console: a general driving programme, plus one for slippery conditions (known as ‘grass/gravel/ snow’) and three special off-road modes (mud/ruts, sand, rock crawl). Terrain Response then automatically selects the most appropriate settings for the vehicle’s advanced electronic controls and traction aids – including ride height, engine torque response, hill descent control, electronic traction control and transmission settings.

Another innovation is the Integrated Body-frame structure, which allows the Discovery 3 to deliver the comfort, refinement and on-road attributes of a monocoque, while continuing to set new standards in off-road performance. The Discovery 3 also features adaptive headlights that swivel with the direction of travel to illuminate the road ahead.

The top-of-the-range engine is a specially developed 4.4-litre version of Jaguar’s V8 petrol engine. Changes for Land Rover use include increased capacity, more low-end torque, enhanced dust- and water-proofing, and revised breathing to enable the car to wade rivers. In Land Rover guise, the engine must also be able to run at acute angles for extreme off-road use. The top-selling engine in Europe is likely to be Land Rover’s new 2.7-litre V6 turbodiesel (not available in North America), a common rail unit that uses variable geometry turbocharging. The third engine in the line-up is a petrol 4.0-litre V6.

On-road driving and refinement are enhanced by fully independent suspension all round, using air springs on most models. This is height adjustable, to assist with entry and exit, and to boost ground clearance to help off-road performance.

The driver enjoys Land Rover’s traditional ‘command' seating position, while all the rear passengers get stadium seating – progressively higher than the seats in front, offering a clearer view. The optional third row of seats are big enough to accommodate 95th percentile adults.

http://www.cardesignnews.com/news/2004/040402landrover-discovery/images/landrover-discovery02.jpg

http://www.cardesignnews.com/news/2004/040402landrover-discovery/images/landrover-discovery04.jpg

If the new Subaru 7 pax tall wagon won't do you, you can always go with a Land Rover. This will set you back another $8,000 to $10,000, but, if brand idenity is your bag, there's no match for the Land Rover mark. Alpha 1

Kuro

04-06-2004, 12:14 AM

Originally posted by mh_WRX

http://x.wieck.com/pv/WKA/2004/03/31/WKA2004033151000_pv.jpg

I'm sorry GM, but that's just unacceptable.:mad:

Raxy

04-06-2004, 12:33 AM

Originally posted by mh_WRX
The GT-R and G35R (4 door) should be making their debute (spy pic wide) any day now.

If the G34R is there, then there wouldn't be much point in a Maxima AWD. But they may do it for different Price Points and Starting trims.

As far as the FM and the FF chassis, while they are different, they also share they same basics and many mounting points so component sharing is possible.
Never heard of the G35R before but I can't wait to see it. Gimme.

mh_WRX

04-06-2004, 09:37 AM

More Velite news...

http://www.canadiandriver.com/news/04images/velite_1.jpg

http://www.canadiandriver.com/news/04images/velite_2.jpg

GM unveils Buick Velite

New York, New York - GM unveiled the Buick Velite today, an upscale rear-drive mid-size automobile. Named for an elite class of quick-moving soldiers in Napoleon’s army, the Velite was designed at GM’s Advanced Studio in Warren, Michigan and assembled at coachbuilder Stile Bertone’s studio in Italy. Its sister car, the Opel Insignia, debuted the Zeta architecture at the Frankfurt International Auto Show last year.

“Velite is a new expression of Buick’s longstanding heritage in understated yet sophisticated design,” said Anne Asensio, executive director – GM Advanced Design. “While certainly an expression of premium American style, the Velite’s impressive stance and overall presence emphasize a sumptuous driving experience that further pushes Buick on to the centre of the world stage of luxurious touring cars.”

The Velite's hood integrates portholes – three per side – in a romantic, yet contemporary nod to Buick’s heritage. The hood tilts forward when opened, creating a dramatic look that evokes a bygone era of touring cars. A complementing clamshell deck lid opens in the opposite direction to swallow the Velite’s folding soft top. When retracted, the top is completely covered by the rear deck for an integrated, contoured look reminiscent of Buick’s dramatic boattail designs of the 1930s.

Power comes from Buick’s experimental twin-turbocharged, intercooled global V-6 engine. Four hundred horsepower and 400 lb.-ft. of torque are derived from its DOHC design and 3.6-litre displacement. The engine features fuel-saving variable valve timing technology, which is available on some of GM’s four-, five-, six- and eight-cylinder engines. Through the use of variable engine valve timing, valve lift and duration is continuously varied to improve fuel economy, horsepower and torque, while reducing emissions.

The V-6 is backed by a Hydra-Matic six-speed, rear-wheel-drive automatic transmission equipped with manual tap-shift gear selection. A pair of large, oval exhaust outlets provides a reminder that performance is a part of the vehicle’s character.

“It’s a forward-looking vehicle that not only stands for Buick in America, but how American style, performance and prestige resonates in a contemporary, global form,” said Tom Peters, Buick Velite’s chief designer. “It’s premium performance to go with a contemporary, muscular presence.”

http://www.auto-motor-sport.de/sixcms/media.php/23/v1_450.jpg
http://www.auto-motor-sport.de/sixcms/media.php/23/v2_450.jpg
http://www.auto-motor-sport.de/sixcms/media.php/23/v3_450.jpg

mh_WRX

04-06-2004, 09:53 AM

http://www.auto-motor-sport.de/sixcms/media.php/23/v4_450.jpg
http://www.auto-motor-sport.de/sixcms/media.php/23/v5_450.jpg
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http://www.auto-motor-sport.de/sixcms/media.php/23/v11_450.jpg

rsholland

04-06-2004, 10:10 AM

It looks like a low rider to me. :(

http://www.thecarconnection.com/index.asp?article=7013&sid=173&n=156

Bob

Achilles38WRX

04-06-2004, 11:39 AM

Originally posted by rsholland
It looks like a low rider to me. :(

does look lower than its gm cousins
http://www.thecarconnection.com/images/gallery/7913_image.jpg

AWDPilot

04-06-2004, 12:08 PM

That's the first reiteration of the Tahoe that I have not immediately seen and known 100% what it was.

Althoguh, had saab designed something in house, I would have thought it to look more along the lines of a bigger murano.

Redneck Ricer

04-06-2004, 01:20 PM

Originally posted by gibjer
That's the first reiteration of the Tahoe that I have not immediately seen and known 100% what it was.

Althoguh, had saab designed something in house, I would have thought it to look more along the lines of a bigger murano.

Thats because it is based on the trailblazer, not the Tahoe :)

AWDPilot

04-06-2004, 01:32 PM

err whatever, gm suv, they look the same to me.

Hank3

04-06-2004, 02:43 PM

I'm really diggin' the new M45:

http://press.nissan-global.com/COMMON/IMAGES/EVENT/NYMS/LOW/nyms_05.jpg

http://press.nissan-global.com/COMMON/IMAGES/EVENT/NYMS/LOW/nyms_06.jpg

http://press.nissan-global.com/COMMON/IMAGES/EVENT/NYMS/LOW/nyms_07.jpg

More pics can be found here:

http://press.nissan-global.com/EN/EVENTS/autoshow.html

BigElm

04-06-2004, 04:25 PM

^ Major improvement....

Can't wait to get to the NY Auto Show

Alpha1

04-06-2004, 05:11 PM

Car News briefs: Saab's Sonett reborn; Chrysler says an SRT is an SRT

By AUTOWEEK

Look for Saab to get a car based on General Motors’ Kappa small-car platform, most likely in the form of a sports car that harks back to Saab’s rally-bred Sonett. The possibility seems nearer now that Saturn’s Kappa car, based on the Curve concept created by the Saab advanced design team in Gothenburg, Sweden, has been given the go-ahead. “That we’re exploring a Sonett-inspired two-seater should be no surprise,” says a Saab source. A Sonett debut at the 2005 Frankfurt show is likely.

An SRT is an SRT
Chrysler says SRT will continue to stand for Street and Racing Technology, but to keep everything straight the people at Performance Vehicle Operations will henceforth be known by the same name, Street and Racing Technology.

This would be a much better car if it was based on the next generation of Impreza. Alpha1

mh_WRX

04-06-2004, 05:38 PM

2005 Cadillac STS
Break over: STS returns to the performance luxury wars, this time as a rear-driver
By BOB GRITZINGER

http://www.autoweek.com/weekart/2004/0412/caddystsmain.jpg
http://www.autoweek.com/weekart/2004/0412/caddystsrear.jpg
http://www.autoweek.com/weekart/2004/0412/caddystsinterior.jpg

2005 CADILLAC STS
ON SALE: Fall
BASE PRICE: $43,000
POWERTRAIN: 3.6-liter, 255-hp, 252-lb-ft V6; rwd, five-speed automatic
CURB WEIGHT: 3857 pounds
0 to 60 MPH: 6.6 seconds (mfr.)

After a 16-month hiatus, Cadillac STS returns to the market this fall as a rear-wheel-drive luxury performance sedan—one that Cadillac dares to compare to the best the marketplace has to offer.

“We think we’ve narrowed the gap,” promises Cadillac general manager Mark LaNeve, with competition that includes BMW 5 and 7 Series (Cadillac believes the car falls squarely between the two BMW models), Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6 and Lexus GS 300 and LS430.

We haven’t driven the all-new 2005 STS yet so we can’t speak to that boast, but we’re betting once we do get behind the wheel we’ll find the car much improved dynamically from the outgoing front-drive model, which ceased production in May 2003. Not that the old model was a slouch—it was lauded for its performance when it debuted in 1997 (as a ’98 model). But nothing could change the simple physics of its front-wheel-drive chassis, and even the addition of a superb Magnetic Ride Control system couldn’t salvage STS late in its life cycle.

For 2005, STS arrives on the Sigma platform, the same chassis underpinning the rear-drive CTS and performance variant CTS-V, as well as the rear- and all-wheel-drive SRX sportwagon. STS will be offered in rear-wheel with all-wheel drive optional on V8 models—the first General Motors rear-drive sedan with an all-wheel-drive option. STS joins a Cadillac showroom now weighted heavily toward rear-drive and all-wheel-drive vehicles, once you add the Corvette-based XLR luxury sports car and the Escalade sport/utes. Only the Deville remains front-drive, and Cadillac is still mulling that car’s future layout, though at the moment it appears likely the big luxury liner will remain in the front-drive family.

At first glance, STS appears nothing more than a super-sized CTS, which is part of the plan to continue building on Cadillac’s now-established “edge” design character, says Kip Wasenko, STS lead designer. But a closer study (you’ll get a chance at the car’s premier at the New York auto show) reveals significant differences—softened fender creases, a wider chrome-plated grille, jewel-like headlamps, sculpted wheel arches and more fluid C-pillars tucking into the aluminum rear decklid—all intended to convey a more refined, uncluttered and elegant evolution of Cadillac’s styling.

GM vice chairman Bob Lutz also had a hand in the STS, demanding a one-inch overall height reduction, sharper windshield and backlight rake, more tumblehome, and full-frame “into roof” door construction—without sacrificing interior room. Wasenko said reworking the door frame to wrap into the roof, which provides better sealing and requires fewer trim parts (see a jet aircraft or an S-Class for reference), required a significant additional investment. But cost arguments didn’t deter the product czar.

“Bob reinforced with everyone that the mission of STS is to be a sports sedan,” said Wasenko.

Inside, Cadillac spared no expense to differentiate its flagship sports sedan from the plastic-dependent down-market CTS. Eucalyptus wood adorns the steering wheel (leather-wrapped heated wheel optional), center console and stack, instrument panel and door armrests (aluminum trim on console and center stack is available), while optional heated and ventilated leather seats provide upscale comfort. Door panels and the dashboard get a natural grain soft-touch urethane skin, while the headliner and pillars are covered in woven fabric. Brightly accented analog gauges include speedometer, tachometer, fuel and engine temperature.

Under the hood, STS engine options include a revamped 4.6-liter V8 and a 3.6-liter V6, both featuring four valves per cylinder, double overheard cams and variable valve timing. In the Northstar V8, the extra equipment is good for a 20-hp boost to 320 hp at 6400 rpm and a 20-lb-ft increase in torque to 315 lb-ft at 4400 rpm. The V6 provides 255 hp at 6500 rpm and 252 lb-ft of torque at 3200—with 90 percent of that torque available from 1600 to 5800 rpm, thanks to VVT.

Both engines are mated to five-speed automatic transmissions equipped with Driver Shift Control (DSC), which switches the gearbox from fully automatic mode to a driver-controlled auto-manual mode, and Performance Algorithm Liftfoot (PAL) that first appeared on the 2004 CTS. PAL is the neat trick, because it reads lateral forces and holds gears while cornering, preventing the transmission from automatically upshifting when the driver lifts off the accelerator in a curve. An engine drag control feature first offered on CTS and SRX allows the stability control to prevent lift oversteer. A limited-slip differential is also available.

Cadillac engineers say the quickest of the lot—at least until the already designed and engineered STS V-Series arrives—is the 3921-pound rear-wheel-drive V8-powered STS, with a 0 to 60-mph time of 5.8 seconds. The 4230-pound awd V8 and the 3857-pound rear-drive V6 models should post 6.6-second times.

The powertrain is bolted to a Nurburgring-honed chassis, with independent short/long-arm front suspension with aluminum upper and lower control arms and brake calipers, and an independent multilink rear setup. Monotube shocks are standard, while Magnetic Ride Control is optional. Steering is via a rack and pinion system with an optional ZF speed-sensitive steering gear on sport models. Four-wheel vented disc brakes come with 11.9-inch front and 11.7-inch rear rotors; the sport packages upgrades to 12.7-inch fronts, 12.6-inch rears. Wheels are 17-inch (18-inch optional) with Michelin V-rated rubber standard, and W-rated or Pilot Sport tires available in the sports package.

Cadillac ladles on an array of electronic wizardry, including Easy Key passive vehicle and trunk access and push-button ignition system that merely requires the driver to have possession of the key fob to access and start the car. For those who can’t wait that long, Smart Remote Start gets things going from up to 200 feet away and then dials in the proper heating or air conditioning depending on conditions. The menu of techno-options also includes radar-based adaptive cruise control with grade braking; high-visibility headlights with alignment that adjusts depending on road height compared to vehicle pitch; Intellibeam sensors that automatically switch from high to low beams (and back again) when oncoming traffic is sensed; four-color head-up display; DVD-based navigation system; voice recognition, and an optional 15-speaker 300-watt Bose surround sound audio system.

Cadillac plans to sell about 30,000 STS sedans in the first year on the market, priced at $43,000 to $66,000.

mh_WRX

04-06-2004, 05:42 PM

TORRANCE, Calif., April 6
Scion, a new line of vehicles from Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today announced the pricing of its newest addition, the tC sport coupe.

The tC adds a new level of excitement to Scion. The two-door coupe will feature a 160-horsepower engine, four-wheel disc brakes, and standard 17-inch alloy wheels with Z-rated tires. Though the tC has the look of a coupe, it features the versatility of a hatchback. Its extensive standard equipment list includes the first standard all-glass panorama moonroof in the segment.

The tC will offer buyers the chance to personalize their vehicle with a choice of nearly 40 accessories for dealer installation. A rear spoiler, 18-inch wheels and tires, and various interior trim components may be added to suit personal taste. For drivers who want even more sport in their tC, accessories from Toyota Racing Development (TRD) will include a 19-inch wheel and tire package, suspension components, and a supercharger that will boost horsepower to approximately 200.

The 2005 Scion tC will go on sale nationally in late June 2004 with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $15,950. Delivery, processing, and handling fees of $515 result in a base price of $16,465 for the five-speed manual transmission model. An available four-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission is available for $800.

The Scion xA sedan and xB urban utility vehicle were launched last year in California and currently are sold in 24 states. The entire Scion vehicle line-up will go on sale nationally in June at nearly 800 select Toyota dealerships across the country.

rsholland

04-06-2004, 05:46 PM

On that Nissan site is also the new Xterra!

Bob

rsholland

04-06-2004, 06:19 PM

http://www.nissannews.com/

Go to "Photos & Multimedia" at the top, and "Breaking News > Xterra news." Lots of pixs & info.

Bottom line: it's much like the new Frontier mechanically. 4.0 250+ HP V6 from new Pathfinder/Frontier. Solid leaf sprung in the rear, from the Frontier. 5-speed auto or 6-speed manual. Enhanced (?) 4WD.

If you like the current Xterra, you will love this new model. If you don't like the current Xterra, you probably won't like this new one either. Styling is evolutionary, but with the new Nissan truck face. It's much better looking than the out-going model IMO.

I like the step on the rear bumper *side* to aid in accessing the roof rack

Bob

Alpha1

04-06-2004, 07:46 PM

Originally posted by mh_WRX
2005 Cadillac STS
Break over: STS returns to the performance luxury wars, this time as a rear-driver
By BOB GRITZINGER

http://www.autoweek.com/weekart/2004/0412/caddystsmain.jpg

2005 CADILLAC STS
ON SALE: Fall
BASE PRICE: $43,000
POWERTRAIN: 3.6-liter, 255-hp, 252-lb-ft V6; rwd, five-speed automatic
CURB WEIGHT: 3857 pounds
0 to 60 MPH: 6.6 seconds (mfr.)

Cadillac engineers say the quickest of the lot—at least until the already designed and engineered STS V-Series arrives—is the 3921-pound rear-wheel-drive V8-powered STS, with a 0 to 60-mph time of 5.8 seconds. The 4230-pound awd V8 and the 3857-pound rear-drive V6 models should post 6.6-second times.

The powertrain is bolted to a Nurburgring-honed chassis, with independent short/long-arm front suspension with aluminum upper and lower control arms and brake calipers, and an independent multilink rear setup. Monotube shocks are standard, while Magnetic Ride Control is optional. Steering is via a rack and pinion system with an optional ZF speed-sensitive steering gear on sport models. Four-wheel vented disc brakes come with 11.9-inch front and 11.7-inch rear rotors; the sport packages upgrades to 12.7-inch fronts, 12.6-inch rears. Wheels are 17-inch (18-inch optional) with Michelin V-rated rubber standard, and W-rated or Pilot Sport tires available in the sports package.

Cadillac plans to sell about 30,000 STS sedans in the first year on the market, priced at $43,000 to $66,000.

http://www.thecarconnection.com/images/gallery/7851_image.jpg
Motortrend May 2004, Vol. 56, No. 5 test result have the Hemi 300C running 0-60 mph in 5.8 seconds and the new Pontiac GTO in 5.4 seconds. (5 speed and 4 speed autoboxes respectively) The 3921-pound rear-wheel-drive V8-powered STS runs a 0 to 60-mph time of 5.8 seconds. Impressive for $60,000.

Chrysler 300C also has a Nurburging-honed chassis, 18 inch standard wheels/tires combo and V8 hemi strapped to a German 5 speed Auto-stick.

These two cars are field at different market segments, but have a lot in common in their rear drive platforms, dimensions, dynamics and power. Each car has a 250hp V6 or 330+ hp V8 variants.

Without any doubt the Caddy is a more refined and luxurious machine But at a $20,000 premium. It will interesting to see how the American market excepts these two vehicles. Although they are very similar in concept, they are worlds apart in value and prestige.

I would and will by a 300C over the V6 powered STS which is $10,000 more expensive similarly equipped, the V8 STS is completely out of the equation. Time will tell if there are many other automotive shoppers with this same sentiment.

Quite frankly, I think Czar Lutz is shaking in his boots. Alpha1