Answer to cars?prayers – Auto auctions

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Selecting an automobile through the auto auctions can be a back breaking task for many. They might not have any choice or would have seen many options but not liked any.
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Selecting an automobile through the auto auctions can be a back breaking task for many. They might not have any choice or would have seen many options but not liked any. Attending an auto auction in real or through the Internet are options that people have today, which helps save time and effort. This allows them to sit in the comfort of their office or home and choose the vehicle they are interested in and bid. They can then check the site to see what the other bid prices are and if they can raise their bid, they will, else will back out. If you and your wife have just brought home your second child, it means you will need a bigger car, and your small sized car wont be enough hereafter. So, you might be interested in buying an SUV or a family size car. It is easier to scour the various websites

At auto auctions, one can pick up cars that are almost half their price or upto 75 – 90% off. Sometimes you will find people buying a Mercedes Benz or other such high-end cars at the auto auctions. This is possible because the cars would have been seized by the police or finance companies for defaulting payments. Since today most people buy cars and automobiles based on monthly installment schemes, if they cannot meet the payments, and this default happens for a long duration, the vehicle will be repossessed by the company. Also if a car was stolen, but no one has made any attempts to claim it, it would also become part of the auto auctions. But you must still consider that some of these cars in fine condition and need little or no repair work done before taking them out.

In your locality, there are likely to be auto auctions happening on a regular basis, but since not many are aware of these, you need the services of a reliable car dealer to give you all the latest updates. Gov-auctions.org can just be the ideal solution to know inside tips on when auto auctions are scheduled or what cars are going to be up for grabs. So whenever you would like to try your hand on any car auctions make sure you get yourself well trained.

A perfect solution for those seeking to purchase a car, but is not in a position to shell out too much money. This is also an ideal way out for people interested in buying a car but don’t have the time or knowledge to inspect the various models on display. They might seek the assistance of their friends or colleagues to help them choose the right car. One must however, be careful while picking a car from the auction. There may be cases where the car looks good, but is not in very good condition. A common myth associated with auctions is that the cars sold are not legal or carry some taint in them, this is absolutely false. The cars once sold to you belong to you and come with the necessary documents to prove ownership.

Ford Bronco: More Than Just OJ Simpson’s Speed Chase Vehicle

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Why is the Ford Bronco so well known? Well let us just say that it was the very same vehicle model that the infamous OJ Simpson used when he traveled during his low speed chase with the police through the Los Angeles Area. It was also the very same white Ford Bronco that was a 1993 model used by Al Cowlings.
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Starting from the year 1966 up until 1996, the Ford Bronco lived for a good three decades. This vehicle is actually a 4 x 4 sport utility vehicle. And it has had four distinct generations.

Originally, this vehicle was designed and crafted with being a strict competitor in mind. And come the time that it was introduced, it was then competitor to the Jeep CJ 5 as well as the International Harvester Scout. Come the late 1970s, the Ford Bronco then came to be a competitor for the Chevrolet K5 Blazer as well as the Dodge Ramcharger. Come the 1980s, this vehicle was accompanied by a much smaller Ford Bronco II. However, this small sibling only stayed in the market for just a couple of years. As for its last generation, the world knew the Ford Bronco as a large vehicle that was based on the newer Ford F series.

Why is the Ford Bronco so well known? Well let us just say that it was the very same vehicle model that the infamous OJ Simpson used when he traveled during his low speed chase with the police through the Los Angeles Area. It was also the very same white Ford Bronco that was a 1993 model used by Al Cowlings. Now that is the Ford Bronco in popular culture for you.

The person who gave the Ford Bronco life was Ford’s product manager Donald N. Frey. Frey was also the very same person who designed the Ford Mustang. After the design comes the production and it was Lee Iacocca who got this vehicle ready to roll of the manufacturing and assembly plants. A unique vehicle on its own, the Ford Bronco did not share any part with any other vehicle.

According to J. Mays, Ford Motor Company group’s vice president for design, “True to its heritage, the Bronco is a tough and genuine SUV that’s all about function. It’s like a claw hammer in a box full of department store, battery operated, plastic, power tools.?

Drive Your Car to Summer Fun

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The shift from the winter and cold days to the hot and sunny weather of summer is something that you would have to consider with regards to your car. After all, driving conditions during winter is a far cry from the driving conditions during the hot and dry months of summer. Just like getting your car ready for winter, you should also get your machine in condition for summer.
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The snow has finally thawed and the cold is moving further away. Summer is coming ever so swiftly that you would not actually notice it until you can feel the heat of the season. However, the shift from the winter and cold days to the hot and sunny weather of summer is something that you would have to consider with regards to your car. After all, driving conditions during winter is a far cry from the driving conditions during the hot and dry months of summer. Just like getting your car ready for winter, you should also get your machine in condition for summer.

Make sure that you first remove your snow tires. They may have worked well during those cold snowy days however they will only wear out faster if you use it on dry roads. You can do this yourself or you can opt to have them removed at some service shop which could be, of course, for a fee.

Check your tire pressure when the tires are cold. This is mainly because you would be getting a different reading if you do this just right after you leave your vehicle up under the sun. Always make sure that they contain just the right amount of pressure.

Remember that there are different engine oil specifications during the hot summer months so make sure that you read your car owner’s manual and guide. There are specifications there as per which type of oil should work well during the summer.

Make sure that your car battery is in good condition. You see, the hot temperature of summer could actually lead your battery to go under greater stress and strain. You may also want to have it replaced in cases when you are not sure just how long you have had the battery. This would work well especially if you are planning on going on a long trip. And, also check your car’s coolant and antifreeze mixture. If your vehicle heats up, it would just mean a delay in your travel.

Do not hesitate to replace any parts that are already worn out or damaged. There are various online stores that offer quality auto parts and one of these is Auto Accessories Giant which is well known for its quality Geo accessories.

Audi A8: Mercedes, BMW Beware!

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Audi’s A8 is a technological and engineering model. While BMW and Mercedes may boast more sales, the A8 is truly a cutting luxury car in a sea of German exports.
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When you think of German automotive excellence, Mercedes and BMW are two brands that easily come to mind. Audi, too, has been making a name for itself and is poised to cause a lot of trouble for its Bavarian cousins with its current line of cars and planned models. The cream of the crop Audi is the A8, a true champion and a terrific alternative to BMW and Mercedes. Let’s take a closer look at Audi’s top-of-the-line sedan and what it has to offer to you, the European sedan enthusiast.

Back in 1994 Audi decided to take on Mercedes and BMW by introducing an all new car the full size Audi A8. As the first car built on an entirely aluminum platform [for weight savings optimization] the Audi A8 has been constantly redefining the German luxury car market ever since. Way back in 1997, the Audi A8 became the first car in the world to offer six air bags. Later, more powerful diesel and gasoline powered engines were introduced to further separate the brand from its competitors.

Since 1997 the A8 has been marketed in the USA, but it hasn’t swiped as many sales away from Mercedes and BMW as Audi had hoped. Still, the current model offers much flair and technological innovation to be truly a different model from BMW’s 7-Series or Mercedes?S-Class.

One thing that Audi enthusiasts have appreciated about the Audi A8 is its diverse engine choices. Certainly, a powerful gasoline powered V8 is offered, but other engine choices including V10 and V12 engines have shown up as well. Turbo diesel aspirated V6 and V8 engines have made their way onto European versions of the car, but not in America where emissions standards are much more restrictive.

So, what exactly can you get with an Audi A8 besides a wide variety of engine choices? Much, as outlined here:

6 speed Tiptronic transmission

Quattro all wheel drive

Power sunroof

Bi-Xenon headlamps

Front and rear foglamps

Premium sound system

18 inch alloy wheels

Full leather interior

Â…much more!

For a retail price of just under $70,000 for the “base?model, the Audi A8 is priced competitively against similar sized BMW and Mercedes models. However, if it is speed that you want, then the W12 model will get you there in about five seconds. In this case, you’ll have to pony up at least $118,000 for the top-of-the-line Audi A8.

Of course, not everyone wants a car as big and as expensive as the Audi A8. If your tastes are a bit simpler, the automaker markets 13 other models in North America and its Volkswagen division also offers a wide selection of less pricey models.

Then again if it is an Audi A8 that you want, then price will not be an object. At least Audi hopes it is that way for many of its well heeled customers!

2007 New Car Extravaganza!

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Months earlier I shared information about five upcoming 2007 models. Model year will prove to be an exciting, if not exceptional year for automakers, therefore five more models are featured herein.
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Months ago, in a related article, I covered five new or revised car models set to be launched on the North American market. The Jaguar XK, Saturn Sky, Toyota FJ Cruiser, Land Rover Freelander, and Dodge Nitro are already in showrooms or soon to make their appearance there. Beyond these five there are quite a number of other models also being planned and some have already been released. Let’s take a look at five more models catching the attention of auto enthusiasts everywhere.

Nissan Versa ?Yes, Nissan has its own Scion fighter planned and just in time too as two other cars, the Honda Fit and Toyota Yaris, will also be making their debut in the fast crowding Generation “Y?category. The Versa looks more like a Toyota Matrix as opposed to the bread box looking Scion xB. Available as a four door sedan or five door hatchback, the car will come equipped not stripped and include an AM/FM/CD sound system, air conditioning, 6 speed manny tranny, and power mirrors as standard equipment. Best of all, the roomy Versa will be priced at about $12,000, right in Scion territory.

Saturn Aura ?Finally, General Motors is paying some serious attention to Saturn, its “sometime?division. Now that Oldsmobile is out of the way, GM appears ready to take a look at how best to position the Saturn brand. Thanks to GM’s European division, Opel, Saturn looks as if it will benefit from a few new models and the Aura sedan is one of them. Powered by a 3.6L V6, the Aura is shapely, stylish, and much more inviting than its “L Series?predecessor which was also Opel inspired.

Dodge Caliber ?Dodge’s Neon replacement goes where no small Dodge has gone before it. The five door wagon/hatchback sits on beefy 19 inch wheels and incorporates the aggressive Dodge crosshairs grille so popular on all of its vehicles. Three engine choices including 1.8L, 2.0L, and 2.4L I4s set the vehicle apart from the crowd. Dodge will be marketing the car well beyond North America in DCX’s quest to spread the Dodge brand worldwide. With a base price around $14,000 the Caliber will be competitive. Still, a Mexican built Scion like “Hornet?will likely become the entry level car within a few years as DCX prepares to take on Scion and the coming cheaply priced Chinese cars.

Volkswagen Minivan ?A yet to be named minivan will soon be marketed by Volkswagen. Not much has to be done by VW to prepare for the vehicle’s arrival as it will be a rebadged version of Chrysler’s successful minivans, the Caravan and Town & Country. Yes, VW is turning to its German competitor to fill a void in its line up. For its part, VW will be sharing technology with DCX in the form of the Scion like Dodge Hornet to be built in Mexico. The Hornet will be based on the VW Polo, another vehicle that may be imported to the US market.

Ford Edge ?The crossover market heats up with the introduction of the Ford Edge. Marketed between the Escape and Explorer, the Edge will be powered by a 3.5L V6 and be available as front wheel drive people mover or in all wheel drive. Lincoln gets a gussied up version of the Edge called the Aviator.

Other vehicles being introduced include full size trucks and SUVs for General Motors, the Saturn Sky convertible, a revamped Toyota Camry, and new offerings from Kia, Hyundai, and Honda.

The choices for consumers continues to broaden and model year 2007 will be no exception.

Audi Floor Mats: Floor Protection at its Finest

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They have been described as uncompromising, luxurious, unique, assertive, designed well, and dynamic. That’s what Audi cars are meant to be. These have been words to illustrate what Audi cars are.
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They have been described as uncompromising, luxurious, unique, assertive, designed well, and dynamic. That’s what Audi cars are meant to be. These have been words to illustrate what Audi cars are. And your Audi car is no different. For Audi manufacturers certainly put that in mind upon building and developing each and every vehicle. To add distinctiveness and individuality to your Audi car, there are also many Audi body parts available so as to suit not only your preferences but also your Audi’s as well.

Take the Audi floor mats for example. Manufacturers of Audi floor mats have also put those descriptions in mind upon creation of such. Each mat is backed with molded high-technology flexible plastic, and in addition to that, the top layer is made of heavy duty carpet fabric which actually cleans easily compared than others. The thick protective driver heel pad is bonded to the surface to ensure further long life protection.

Audi floor mats also have elevated side walls and the driver and passenger mats have a side extension that sits up high on the transmission tunnel. If you are quite unsure about how it works, just keep in mind that these are also manufactured to be completely waterproof, and will not allow salt or road grime to stain your Audi’s carpet. In short, these Audi floor mats, keep your carpets clean and dry.

Aside from those mentioned, Audi floor mats have style, a true sense of functionality, and is totally durable. They have a great interior upgrade utilizing different colors as per your preference. The outer edges of these Audi floor mats are coil-stitched and are not banded to provide endurance. They provide maximum protection of the interior footwell. They also are exactly the same size and shape as the original carpeted mats. They have a perfect fit and ample coverage. A deep-ribbed channel design is another feature of Audi floor mats and this is for your carpet’s protection.

Unlike any other, Audi floor mats could be customized so you could be sure that they would actually match the color of your Audi’s interior. Other customization options would include embroidered emblems, personalized embroidery, or you can select to have your initials “branded?into the leather insets.

2008 Saturn VUE: Inspired by Opel

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Thanks to GM’s European division, Opel, a new Saturn VUE will roll off of the Spring Hill, TN factory line breathing new life into the brand’s original SUV model.
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General Motors?Saturn division is hard at work on building a replacement for its small SUV, the Saturn VUE. Currently based strictly on U.S. technology, the 2008 VUE is expected to be heavily based on Opel technology: Opel is General Motors?principal European brand. This is good news for those who were concerned that GM would ditch the Saturn VUE. Instead, the SUV will get new life and additional support via its new relationship with Opel. While it is too early to know all the details about the upcoming Saturn VUE makeover, there are some things we do know about this revamped model.

Ever since Saturn released the first “S Series?models back in 1990, the company has struggled to maintain a unique identity. Neglected by parent GM, the upstart Saturn brand had to wait nearly a decade before additional vehicles were added to its line including the Saturn VUE SUV. Along with the “L Series?midsize cars, the three vehicle lines [ION having replace the S Series] fully comprised the Saturn line for several years. Unfortunately, none of the three models were stand out performers, so the brand suffered accordingly.

With the demise of Oldsmobile has come new life for Saturn. Now a fully integrated GM division, Saturn is getting additional vehicles to help beef up its line up. Drawing upon its highly regarded dealer network and high consumer satisfaction scores, Saturn is being quickly remade into a European style division. Saturn has Opel to thank for that.

Along with the coming Aura midsize sedan which is heavily based on an Opel design, the Saturn VUE will be based upon the Opel Antera GTC. An Antera concept has been making the rounds of auto shows across Europe and what we know about the Antera points to what we can expect to see with the VUE.

The Antera is slightly smaller in size than the current Saturn VUE; although the Antera reportedly will have only two doors, the Saturn VUE model will get four doors. Both vehicles are closer in size to the current Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V models, their chief competitors. This smaller size also permits Saturn to introduce a slightly larger 7 passenger SUV next year, the Outlook.

The 2008 Saturn VUE will feature both four and six cylinder gas powered engines. Expect both AWD and RWD to be offered. The Antera’s front end will be redone to mesh with the current Saturn look. Beyond that, the VUE will likely incorporate current GM technology with upgraded safety and performance features included. A base price of around $20,000 for the FWD model is likely with fully loaded AWD versions retailing for as high as $30K.

The 2008 Saturn VUE will be built in Spring Hill, TN home of the original Saturn plant. Along with the Outlook, the Aura, the SKY roadster, the RELAY crossover, and the ION compact, new life is being breathed into Saturn thanks to Opel. This is good news for Saturn fans that have loyally supported the automaker since its inception more than 15 years ago.

Find Auto Car Dealer in Houston New

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Today automobile has become a need of an individual and one should have at least one automobile. Whether it’s new car, truck, SUV, or minivan you’re looking for, there are multiple new car dealers in Houston County with the wheels you want, and we’ll help you find them.
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Today automobile has become a need of an individual and one should have at least one automobile. Whether it’s new car, truck, SUV, or minivan you’re looking for, there are multiple new car dealers in Houston County with the wheels you want, and we’ll help you find them.

Through nationwide network of Houston County new car dealers you can find them easily in your local dealer searching by vehicle make or by location. Number of online sites offer helps you to find out the new car in Houston County you’re looking for or simply contact at your own discretion. You can buy your new car online.

Automobile car dealer Houston new will guide you in proper way to buying a new car. Houston automobile dealers have a wide arrange of automobile from which you can make a choice.

The sales people are always made available at your service to give you detailed information and to give you proper guidance. You can ask them your question and they will give you the proper answers to your query.

In Houston country you can easily find new car automobile dealer with a wide range of auto collection. The collection of the entire branded companies car are now available at your nearest automobile dealer shop for your convenient.

The automobile has a Mind-blowing performance, sumptuous luxury, easy in use and good in parking. You can find your new car which you are looking for in your budget.

Anna Josephs is a freelance journalist having experience of many years writing articles and news releases on various topics such as pet health, automobile and social issues. She also has great interest in poetry and paintings, hence she likes to write on these subjects as well. Currently writing for this website Automobile Dealer. For more details please contact at annajosephs@gmail.com

Are You Really Safe From Carjackers?

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Aside from the fact that you may never see your vehicle again, carjacking could also be very hazardous to both your physical safety as well as the carjacker’s. You see, if you are the victim, you may try to maneuver your way out and in the process run the carjacker over.
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Carjacking. What is it? Well, it is a crime of motor vehicle theft. Most of the time, a carjacker is armed so much so that the owner of the driver of the car is forced out of the vehicle.

Aside from the fact that you may never see your vehicle again, carjacking could also be very hazardous to both your physical safety as well as the carjacker’s. You see, if you are the victim, you may try to maneuver your way out and in the process run the carjacker over. On the other hand, the carjacker could use their weapon and try shooting you. They also try pushing the occupant out of the car.

If you are simply going to park your car, make sure that you park it somewhere that has lots of lights. Also, be sure that it is a busy area with plenty of motor vehicle and pedestrian traffic. If possible, try parking somewhere that is very close to your destination. The more people around, the lesser the chances of a carjacker striking and working up the nerve to attack your car.

Also, make sure that everything valuable is hidden. Keep your windows rolled up and check all doors and windows before leaving the car. Make sure everything is locked up. And when you are going back to your car, have your keys handy. These carjackers could attack when you are posed trying to search for your keys. Be on the alert always.

On the other hand, if you are on the road, make sure that your car is always well-maintained. This assures you that the chances of your car breaking down are slimmer. Cars that have broken down are the usual targets for carjackers. Driving should also be something to plan ahead of time. It would be best if you try going through routes that are busy and well-lit.

The center lane is more safe. Remember that once you get stuck in traffic, the carjackers would have to go though a tough time first before they actually reach your car.

Encountering Aggressive Drivers

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All motorists and drivers know that aggressive driving is something that is never encouraged on the roads and streets. If for no apparent reason, a driver cuts you off on the road, experts suggest is that you still continually maintain a safe following distance. By continually keeping your vehicle in good condition increases your chances of having total control over your vehicle in cases where you meet aggressive drivers.
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All motorists and drivers know that aggressive driving is something that is never encouraged on the roads and streets. In fact, people would rather have drivers who are calm and cool rather than those who drive with their emotions raging on. Aside from being one of the causes of having other motorists quite hot-headed, aggressive driving also is one of the leading causes of minor and major traffic accidents.

Keeping a cool head and a forgiving heart is one good piece of advice that experts in driving and in the automobile world have for motorists. In fact, by keeping everything cool and calm, there would be most probably lesser accidents and a great decrease in aggressive drivers.

If for no apparent reason, a driver cuts you off on the road, experts suggest is that you still continually maintain a safe following distance. Now, if you feel like you would like to get back at that person, you can always wait until you are home to do some voodoo curses. In the meantime, do not try to tailgate him. That person who cut you off could actually just slam on those brakes if he wants to. And when he decides to do such, you would be running to your car shop and to your insurance company.

Now there are instances when you encounter a driver talking on his cellular phone. He drives with stick shift making him swerve dangerously into your lane. Now, you, on the other hand, have to slam on your brakes to avoid a collision and you are trying to find an escape route. What you do is you try to honk your horn in a polite way. That way, you are alerting the driver that his driving is quite dangerous. Make sure that you keep your distance from her. Do not try to catch that person’s eye. In that process, you are actually taking your own eyes off the road.

In the meantime, if you choose to just keep it cool and calm, there are some stores that offer good and quality auto parts. By continually keeping your vehicle in good condition increases your chances of having total control over your vehicle in cases where you meet aggressive drivers. Same Day Car Parts is one of these stores and they specialize in specially crafted parts for vehicle models and makes like Honda parts.

Dodge: Awesome and Invigorated!

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No longer in Chrysler’s shadow, Dodge, DaimlerChrysler’s performance division is cranking out some truly awesome looking vehicles. We look at some of the champions of the current line up and peer into the future at models waiting in the wings.
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If you are a car fan you know that part of the fun of following the market is examining new models as they enter the showroom. There is just something special about a new car: the smell, the look, the price tag! For some 17 million American drivers a new car is in their future, while many others opt for the used car market. Some of the cars on the market today are hot, hot, hot! Let’s take a look at several new and future offerings from Dodge.

Thanks in part to new ownership [Daimler Benz purchased the Chrysler Corporation in 1998] a fresh infusion of great looking Dodge models have hit a showroom near you. Additional models are soon to appear and the makeover that Dodge has been receiving is nothing less than astounding. Here are some of my favorites:

Magnum – Who said that a station wagon should resemble a family hauler? The Magnum sure doesn’t. With an intimidating grille and a rakish exterior, the Magnum is a true man pleaser while also giving women a bit extra room in the back to haul stuff. Throw in a Hemi and the Magnum truly rocks!

Charger ?Okay, so the new Charger has four doors. Well, you can’t have everything. You can have macho looks, a powerful engine, and a car that is certain to compete with anything that Japan or Germany throws its way. Word has it that DaimlerChrysler is considering a coupe version. Now, wouldn’t that be cool!

Caliber – Bye, bye Neon. The Neon served Dodge well, but it isn’t in the same caliber as the Caliber. Pun intended. To be introduced in Spring 2006 as a 2007 model, the Caliber will have three engine choices: 1.8, 2.0, and 2.4 I4s, a continuously available transaxle, and all wheel drive. In addition, 2.0L diesel engines will be available outside of the North American market ?why not here? ?as DaimlerChrysler sets to introduce the Dodge name into new markets.

Other Dodge vehicles that are getting noticed include the Ram and Dakota pick up trucks, the Durango SUV and the soon to be introduced Dodge Nitro, the division’s version of the compact Jeep Liberty. Oh, yeah, who could forget the 510-hp V10 Viper? Can you say, Corvette beater?

One word you can’t associate with Dodge anymore is the word, “boring.?Exciting cars, trucks, and SUVs for a market craving these types of hot vehicles. I guess the “ram?insignia really does befit the name.

Acura: 20 Years of Honda Luxury

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Honda’s Acura division continues to receive accolades and for good reason: the brand has successfully captured the hearts and minds of thousands of drivers who have grown accustomed to Acura refinement, Acura luxury, and Acura engineering.
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In March 2006, the Honda Motor Company celebrated an important milestone: the 20th anniversary of their luxury brand, Acura. Created to give Honda aficionados an opulent make that they could be proud of, Acura has successfully expanded the company’s reach far beyond more prosaic models such as the Civic and the Accord. Today, Acura is a very different brand than the company that was birthed in 1986. Let’s take a glimpse at Acura’s past, their present line up, and what the next 20 years may bring for this esteemed Japanese automaker.

Back in 1981, Honda saw an opportunity opening up for itself that no one in Honda’s headquarters wanted to miss out on: building and selling luxury cars to American consumers. Mercedes and BMW were both gaining traction in the U.S. as American luxury brands Cadillac and Lincoln sputtered and lost market share. Honda was already receiving widespread consumer acceptance and critical acclaim for the three models it was then selling in the U.S., so the decision to market more expensive and upscale cars was viewed as a strong possibility.

When Honda management decided to go with the upscale brand, they did this knowing that the cars would eventually have to stand apart from Honda in order to command the higher prices. Simply selling up market Hondas as Acuras would not work. Instead, each car was outfitted and retuned to compete directly against the leading luxury cars of that time.

The first two models to be sold as Acuras were the Legend, a V6 powered sedan and coupe, and the Integra, which was essentially a three door coupe based on a Honda Civic platform. Later, the NSX two seat roadster was brought out to battle Porsche and the Vigor sedan was introduced to fill the gap between the Integra and the Legend.

Over time, the various model names were dropped and replaced by vehicles with 2 or 3 letter designations. The Vigor became the TL, the Legend became the RL, and the Integra the RSX. Today, the MDX SUV, RSX sport compact, and TSX sedan, join the three other models to comprise the current Acura line up. A slightly smaller SUV, the RDX, will be joining Acura’s line up later in 2006.

The future of Acura looks bright despite strong worldwide competition. Although Honda jumped into the market a few years before Nissan rolled out it Infiniti division and Toyota its Lexus line, Acura has trailed its Japanese competitors for over a decade now. Some critics have contended that this misstep has hurt Acura, while others see it as a typical conservative Honda decision to expand the Honda brand instead.

Future changes for Acura are sketchy, but model changes will likely include the introduction of diesel powered vehicles and more hybrid offerings. Some auto critics have suggested that Honda has the capacity of outflanking BMW and Mercedes by producing super luxury sedans and sports cars. Renowned Honda quality combined with European styling, luxury, and engineering have fueled Acura’s success so far. An expansion of this theme to even larger and/or sportier models could vault Acura forward.

Truly, Acura has helped reshape the original perception that many motorists had about the Japanese brands, by delivering vehicles that are high in luxury, tops in engineering, and strong in refinement. If the last 20 years have proved anything it is that enthusiasts can expect much more from Acura over the next two decades. Kudos to the Honda Motor Company for developing a brand that has been so well received.

Anti-Theft Devices For Vehicles

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Cars are expensive. If you are interested in purchasing an anti-theft device for your vehicle, you should first take into consideration where you park your car. Look through various anti-theft devices. Some anti-theft devices you can usually purchase in the market include audible alarms, a concierge system, cellular alarms that notify the police, locking steering wheel covers, locking steering wheel column covers, locking steering wheel bars, electronic immobilizers, engine system locks, fuel-system locks, tracking devices, and delay devices.
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Cars are expensive. That is why people do try to go out of their way to keep their vehicle safe, secure, and free from thieves and robbers. It is a good thing that some people have been able to create and design anti-theft devices. For most people, these devices are considered as blessings to those protecting their vehicles.

If you are interested in purchasing an anti-theft device for your vehicle, you should first take into consideration where you park your car. You see, if you are parking it somewhere far from where you are staying, even if the alarm goes off, you would not be able to hear it. Also, you would have to consider if people would be willing to rush towards your car or would they simply be ignoring it.

You can try to give thieves the feeling that they could not take your car. You can discourage them with the use of indicator lights. You can also use window decals which costs around $2 to $5. Or, for $80 to $200, you can purchase and use large and heavy-gauge steel objects like steering wheel locks or tire locks. Through this, you are telling thieves to stay off for they would have to put up a hard and tiring fight before they can get their hands on your car.

Look through various anti-theft devices. Remember that seasoned thieves can actually go through complication devices in around a minute or two only. Some anti-theft devices you can usually purchase in the market include audible alarms, a concierge system, cellular alarms that notify the police, locking steering wheel covers, locking steering wheel column covers, locking steering wheel bars, electronic immobilizers, engine system locks, fuel-system locks, tracking devices, and delay devices.

EPA, Out For Illegal Imported Engines

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Just recently, the Environmental Protection Agency, or commonly called the EPA, of the United States along with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection have made sure that any illegal imported engines are stopped before they cross the borders of the country.
auto parts,reliable car parts,automotive
Air pollution and environment destruction is one of the major concerns that envelop not only environment agencies and groups but even the automotive world is concerned. And just recently, the Environmental Protection Agency, or commonly called the EPA, of the United States along with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection have made sure that any illegal imported engines are stopped before they cross the borders of the country.

Mainly, this move is to actually stop entrance of these illegally imported engines from entering the country. Primarily, this is because the groups believe that these engines could actually mar the campaign towards cleaner air. Since these are crafted in other countries, the US specifications on engines would surely not be followed.

At present, the groups were able to seize the importing of over 11,000 pieces of illegal engines which have been created for gasoline cars and diesel vehicles. Other than that, they are also on the move towards stopping illegally imported parts which negatively impacted those reliable car parts stores that are dedicated to providing only the best service to car owners. This number is only what they were able to confiscate during the past nine months. And with such a campaign already working well, the numbers could still continue to rise.

These substandard equipment are actually seen as risks to campaigns and projects created by the U.S. public health as well as by groups concerned about the environment. Even Granta Y. Nakayaman, the EPA’s assistance administrator under the Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assistance, is concerned and avows, “The Bush Administration will continue to enforce the Clean Air Act and stop illegal imports. The public’s assistance and cooperation, along with EPA’s commitment to enforcing these regulations, is essential to preserving and protecting the nation’s air quality.?

Aside from this, even the Clean Air Act or CAA which is a federal law, requires that all new gasoline engines as well as diesel engines that are created, distributed, or sold in the country should be able to meet the standards and requirements given out by EPA.

Fall and winter maintenance hints

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Fall and winter readyness of you car suv or truck
engine,brake,heater,defrost,transmission,tires
Fall and winter maintenance hints

Engine oil (level, colour) remember winter engine idling is hard on the oil
Coolant (level, concentration of antifreeze, condition) depends where you live -45 celcius or -50 F is a good level.
Transmission (fluid level, condition, leaks?) Has it been serviced recently? Is the colour of the fluid nice and red and how does it smell (ie: burned smell?)
Power steering fluid (level, condition) Same as transmission: check smell and colour.
Belts & hose (condition) check for crackes and/or frayed belts. Hoses and clamps, check for cracks and leaks
Battery and battery cables (charge level, condition, corrosion) keep the battery clamps clean
Spark plug wires (loose, damaged?) when was the last tune-up? Vehicles are harder to start in the winter
Air filter- make sure to check with a light, if the light shines through the filter it is OK, clean filter by tapping against a wall
Windshield washer fluid- be sure to install winter washer fluids. (you don’t want a solid block of ice in your washer)
Under the Car

Exhaust system (leaks, damage)——- exhaust fumes can kill !!!!!!
Steering (loose, worn or damaged parts) How much free-play in your steeringwheel?
Suspension (ball joints, shocks, struts, springs) These parts can fall apart and you’ll have no steering
Ride height (ground clearance) look for broken exhaust pipes, mufler hanging down
Motor mounts (inspect bushings for rips, cracks, breaks) These are harder to check, watch for excesive engine movement.
Outside the Car

Wiper blades (condition) winter blades prefered, these blades wont plug-up with snow and ice.(keeps the blade flat
All lights (proper operation, angle of beam) include fog and driving lights
Tires (very important) your life rides on these. All Wheel Drives (AWD) ALL FOUR TIRES….Same size and same brand!
Studded snowtires Front Wheel Drive (FWD) Studded tires all around, (this should prevent the backend of you vehicle trying to pass you on an icy road)
Inside the Car
Brake pedal (tightness) if you have a spongy pedal you may have air in the system or worse brakepads and/or shoes worn.
Brake and warning lights (bulb check) when you first start the vehicle these bulbs should light up for a few seconds
Heater (proper operation) Sometimes heater cores plug-up and you wont have enough flow to heat inside or proper defrost
Front and rear defrosters (proper operation) Rear window is electric, are all grids working?

Ball Joints and Your Car’s Suspension System

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Got ball joints? Yes you do! At least your car does. Maintenance has changed, but ball joints must still be inspected for wear, otherwise you risk bringing on tire or steering problems.
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An important part of your car’s suspension system is its ball joints. Made of extra tough steel, ball joints act as the pivot point between two parts: the suspension and your car’s tires. Ball joints help support your car’s weight and, as is the case with some vehicles, ball joints may be used to help set the alignment. Let’s take a closer look at this key component of your car’s suspension system.

Enclosed in a steel housing, ball joints are used on the front end of almost every car, truck, SUV, and minivan. As might be expected, ball joints are subject to a lot of wear and tear, so to properly protect them ball joints are housed in an enclosed boot to keep dirt away from the joint assembly.

There are two types of suspension systems that use ball joints. The first is a conventional system that uses an upper and lower ball joint. The second is called a MacPherson strut system that uses a single lower ball joint and an upper strut bearing. No upper ball joint is needed as the upper strut bearing does the job instead.

Maintenance for ball joints has changed over the years for most cars. Many vehicles come equipped with ball joints that are permanently lubed, so lubrication is not necessary nor is it even possible as the pack that holds the lubrication is permanently sealed. When ball joints wear out or are damaged, you can find replacement ball joints that come with lubrication fittings; in this case you would need to lubricate your ball joints on a regular basis as in when you change your vehicle’s oil.

When performing an inspection of your car’s suspension, your ball joints should be looked at too. Have a complete wheel alignment performed and make certain that the ball joints are not worn. If the ball joints wear out and are not changed, you will soon experience uneven tire wear or unreliable steering, such as wandering. Clearly, worn out ball joints are a safety issue that must be tended to and fixed immediately.

Ball joints are developed for the specific make/model of your vehicle. Many models share the same suspension system as other models within the brand, but to be sure check your vehicle’s repair manual for the right replacement ball joints. Certain manufacturers, such as Moog, develop ball joints for many makes/models and can be used by mechanics that prefer this particular product. Check online to find out more information about Moog ball joints and whether they are right for your car.

Remember: ball joints are an important part of your vehicle’s suspension system. Annual check ups of the suspension can head off costly problems which can also impact your safety.

Africa Meets Volvo S40 2.0

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The African automobile market has just met the newest Volvo entry level model ?the Volvo S40 2.0. According to Volvo Cars, this new vehicle has been created just right so as to pique the interests of the young ones in the market.
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The African automobile market has just met the newest Volvo entry level model ?the Volvo S40 2.0. According to Volvo Cars, this new vehicle has been created just right so as to pique the interests of the young ones in the market who are out searching for the right kind of vehicle that they could own.

Priced at only R215,000 in the continent of Africa, it sure would be a good buy for most young buyers. And this price has actually gotten the Volvo S40 2.0 model quite a huge amount of recognition from the South African Guild of Motoring Journalists last year, 2005. And the value for money proved to be a huge factor for the organization that it gave the Car of the Year award for that year to the Volvo S40 2.0.

The Volvo newest model to hit the African auto market has subjected to changes so as to make it more interesting for the market. Although it does not come ready with a package of Volvo V90 parts that would also be great replacements for the parts of this vehicle, the features for this vehicle are quite remarkable. The Volvo S40 2.0 offers standard equipment like a rain sensor, fog lights, an electronic climate control system, and a trip computer. Those who need entertainment while traveling would surely enjoy the standard Performance sound system. One can also find the steering wheel dotted with control buttons for various functions. The rear view mirror which has an auto-dim feature has now been created to be much wider.

And with Volvo being known much for its vehicles that are very much inclined towards providing the right kind and the right amount of safety for its passengers and owners, the Volvo S40 2.0 holds the Whiplash Protection System, or WHIPS. It also offers some full-length curtain airbags which have been specially designed so as to protect the car’s passengers during side impacts.

Driving And Yawning: Not Good

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You can be driving while you are drowsy. For some people, they could even be driving while asleep with their eyes open, and thus the phrase falling asleep behind the wheel. It goes along with driving with excess speed, driving while on alcohol and drugs, as well as driving while ignoring other vehicles?right of way. Other major factors of crashes include tailgating, improper passing, improper driving to the left of the center, and reckless driving.
auto parts,Volvo,Volvo 850 parts,Volvo parts,Volvo accessories
You can be driving while you are drowsy. And when you are drowsy, your concentration could get quite lessened. You would be yawning and you just feel like you would like to rest. For some people, they could even be driving while asleep with their eyes open, and thus the phrase falling asleep behind the wheel. This kind of situation could lead to accidents.

Fatigue and drowsiness is considered and counted as one of the major factors in crashes. It goes along with driving with excess speed, driving while on alcohol and drugs, as well as driving while ignoring other vehicles?right of way. Other major factors of crashes include tailgating, improper passing, improper driving to the left of the center, and reckless driving.

So how do you know when you are drowsy and you have fatigue? One sure sign is that you are yawning a lot. You have trouble keeping your eyes open. Also, you are not able to concentrate much on the road ahead. Sometimes, you do not even remember what happened during the last few seconds or even the last few minutes. You may find yourself in crashes if you notice that you are jerking your head or your body because you already are in the brink of falling asleep. And the worst part of fatigue and drowsiness is that your car starts to wander off from the road or starts to cross into other lanes.

When you start to feel these signs, it would be best if you started to slow down. Then, make sure that you pull off in a place where there is a safe parking space. You can call your home if you want to so that other people may come and get you there or if someone is expecting you, inform them that you may be most probably be late or would not be able to make it for that day.

If you have a passenger, try talking to him or her. That should keep you awake. You can also opt to turn on the radio to a station that plays music that would keep you awake. Sing if you can. If you simply cannot just take it, make a pit stop. Go get a soda or some coffee first before you start out back again.

Asian Cars: Auto Manufacturers to Watch

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Tata, Hindustan, Geely, Proton, and Chery are not yet household names. Two of these names will become well known in 2007 as their cars are sold in the U.S. for the first time. As for the other three, you can expect that they are also eyeing the American market.
Chinese Cars, Indian cars, Malaysian cars, Hindustan Motors, Proton Motors, Tata Motors, Indica V2
The Asian automobile manufacturing market is much broader than many American consumers understand it to be. Beyond Honda, Hyundai, Toyota, and other household names there are quite a few automakers that are growing in size and respectability in their own markets. Two of these companies have already committed to selling their models in the U.S., but there are three others worth knowing about and watching.

Starting in 2007, two Chinese automobile manufacturers will be exporting cars to the U.S. and Canada. Geely Automobile Company and the Chery Automobile Company are part of the first wave of new Asian automakers preparing to serve the U.S. market. I won’t go into more detail about these two manufacturers, so please read a related article I wrote titled, “Chinese Cars: Redefining the Market,?to learn more about them.

Proton — Proton Holdings, the parent corporation of Proton Motors, is the largest manufacturer of vehicles in Malaysia. Volkswagen and Proton signed a strategic partnership agreement in October 2004 whereby Volkswagen cars would be built on Proton assembly lines beginning in 2006. Apart from the VW venture, Proton has a line of models of its own consisting primarily of subcompact and compact sized vehicles. Proton cars are currently exported to Australia and the company is eyeing the U.S. market perhaps as early as 2010. In addition to its VW relationship, Japanese automaker Mitsubishi owns nearly a 16% share in Proton.

Hindustan — Since 1950, Hindustan Motors has been building cars for the Indian market. Their current line up of automobiles, looking as if they were built in the 1950s, do not match up to current world styling standards. However, the emerging Indian economy has been providing remarkable growth across all business sectors and the Indian automobile industry is ripe for renewal. The Ambassador Grand, one such model, has recently been updated to meet current European emissions standards. Look for a Hindustan model to be exported to Europe first before taking on the highly competitive U.S. market.

Tata — Unlike Hindustan Motors, India’s Tata Motors is currently producing cars that look as if they were designed recently. As the only Indian car company featuring cars built and designed by Indians, the company’s Indica V2 and Indigo compacts have received a favorable reception at the Geneva Auto Show. Plans to export directly to the U.S. have been considered but Tata cars may get to the U.S. under another label before then, such as Ford or Dodge.

Beyond these five companies other state run automobile manufacturing companies have sprung up in communist controlled China. If Geely and Chery succeed, more makes will follow and the floodgates will be open. More choice is coming for consumersÂ…for better or for worse.

Finding The Best Used Car

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If you’re considering a used vehicle, don’t just ask how may miles it has–ask how many owners it’s had, too.
Finding The Best Used Car
If you’re considering a used vehicle, don’t just ask how many miles it has-ask how many owners it’s had, too.

That’s the advice from experts who say used cars that have had only one owner may be in better shape than cars that have had multiple owners. Many of the one-owner cars are relatively new, have fewer miles on them and less overall wear and tear. While these cars may cost a bit more, the chances of a new owner having to shell out cash down the road for repairs could decrease dramatically.

This one-owner preference has helped drive many car-buying decisions, according to a recent study. Nearly nine out of 10 shoppers said they find it important to know how many owners a car has had. In addition, nearly eight out of 10 said they were more likely to purchase a car identified as having one owner than they were to purchase a car that had multiple owners. Two out of three shoppers are even willing to pay more for a one-owner vehicle.

Finding One-Owner Vehicles

The study found that franchised dealers are usually the best place to find one-owner cars, but it’s always important to do a little investigating on your own.

A good place to start is with a vehicle history report from a company such as Carfax. The company’s reports give a complete timeline of a vehicle’s ownership, and clearly indicate whether a vehicle has had one or multiple owners. The reports also indicate whether a car has been in an accident, flood or fire, or if it has been totaled and rebuilt.

In addition to running a report on any car you consider buying, it’s important to talk to the dealer about the vehicle’s previous owner. Find out why the owner sold the car in the first place and ask if the dealership can guarantee that the vehicle you are considering is a one-owner vehicle. Many dealers will provide a free vehicle history report.

If you are buying from a private seller, ask questions similar to what you would ask a dealer, but also ask for the seller’s address and phone number. If he or she is not willing to provide that information, you may want to consider walking away from the deal.

Antique Car Parts

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Owning an antique car is a dream shared by many men and women. Cruising down the street in a classic car not only turns a few heads it makes you feel great knowing that you’ve invested in something of value.

For many people they decide to restore the antique car they’ve purchased. They know that even though it involves a lot of time and work, the end result is well worth the effort.

One of the first things to consider if you are planning on taking on the restoration o…
antique,car parts
Owning an antique car is a dream shared by many men and women. Cruising down the street in a classic car not only turns a few heads it makes you feel great knowing that you’ve invested in something of value.

For many people they decide to restore the antique car they’ve purchased. They know that even though it involves a lot of time and work, the end result is well worth the effort.

One of the first things to consider if you are planning on taking on the restoration of an antique car as a hobby is where you’ll go to find parts. Antique car parts can be difficult to find. You generally can’t walk into your automotive supply store and request the part. Instead you have to do a bit of research to find out where the antique car parts you need can be purchased.

The first place to go to research antique car parts is the internet. Pull up a search page and type in the phrase “antique car parts?followed by your city. With any luck several results will pop up that will give you a resource locally.

If the results of the search aren’t as favorable you can begin to research online stores that specialize in antique car parts.

There are several companies who work with their customers to find the antique car parts they need. They are much like a locator service. You request a part and they put the leg work in to find out where the part can be purchased from. You then pay them a finder’s fee and purchase the particular antique car part from the source they quoted.

There are also companies whose focus is strictly in antique car parts. They compile a vast collection of varied parts and offer them to their customers through their website or store front. There will be additional charges for shipping but if you’ve been having trouble locating a specific part this can be a welcomed resource.

Another source for finding antique car parts is your local newspapers. Sometimes collectors decide to sell off certain parts. You simply peruse the listings and contact the seller asking about the condition of the antique car part you are searching for and the price. Quite often they are excited to help you with your project and will offer you a reasonable price for the required part.

Sometimes you can find a treasure in an unexpected place. Auto wreckers often have antique cars in their lots. These are cars that were not restored and they reached such a debilitated condition that they are now being used strictly for parts.

Some auto wreckers keep a very close inventory on what is on their property. In this case you’ll simply need to call them and inquire about the part citing the type of antique car you have and what you need. They’ll search their computer database and be able to tell you whether or not they can supply you that antique car part.

Other auto wreckers prefer their customers to come to their location and look over the vehicles themselves. You’ll want to take a few tools with you just in case you do locate the part you are searching for. The majority of auto wrecking operations require the customer remove the desired part themselves.

Although it can be tricky to find the antique car parts you need, with a little research you should get what you need to completely restore the vehicle.

A Stylish Crossover Vehicle For Kia

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Kia’s Rondo is all set for production and will soon be appearing on streets across the U.S. Read all about this hot little crossover vehicle from Korea‘s budget automaker.
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Kia is planning to bring to the American market a new type of vehicle ?a seven passenger crossover ?that will compete against the likes of the Toyota Matrix and the Dodge Caliper. The Kia Carens will be sold later this year in Europe and will likely make it to the U.S. market as the Kia Rondo at about the same time. Demand for crossovers continues to rise as the market adjusts to this relatively new type of vehicle. Will the Rondo succeed? If early press reports are any indication then the answer is yes.

Kia’s aggressive surge on the world scene is being made evident through new or proposed factories in Europe and in Georgia, USA. As a subsidiary of the mighty Hyundai group, Kia has long stood for being the budget Korean brand while Hyundai is the company’s value brand. The proposed Rondo will continue Kia’s tradition of providing decent quality small vehicles for prices that are thousands of dollars less than the competition.

Importantly, the Rondo crossover will fit nicely into a category of vehicles that have yet to take the U.S. by storm: mini-minivans. Popular in Europe, these compact vans are much smaller than current American minivans, yet still able to hold as many as 7 adults. With three passenger row seating, the Rondo and others like it squeeze out every possible square inch of interior space to accommodate passengers. No, you won’t ride in luxury and the ride itself will be closer to a Corolla than to a Camry, but Kia is banking on consumers wanting a well appointed 7 passenger vehicle that will likely retail for under $20,000. No vehicle currently offered in the U.S. can claim to carry that many people for that small of a price. Clearly, Kia aims to be the first company to accomplish that feat.

Unlike most upcoming vehicles, Kia is holding information about the Rondo close to the vest. With China’s Chery also preparing to send a similar vehicle to the U.S., Kia’s reticence is certainly understandable. Why give the competition more information than what is necessarily needed at this point in the game?

Likely, a pair of gas powered four cylinder engines mated to various manual and automatic transmissions will power the Rondo. No diesel version has been discussed for the U.S. market, but one is possible for European motorists.

In addition, look for Kia to offer better standard equipment choices with the Rondo than previous models have offered including, standard side and head air bags, dual zone air conditioning, and possibly all wheel drive on a premium model.

Yes, Kia is no longer just a producer of cheap subcompacts. With the soon to arrive Rondo, Kia is attempting to expand its growing line by offering a vehicle like no other one on the market.

An introduction to collecting car brochures ?Part 3 ?What to look for when buying.

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Car brochure collecting. Why it is good fun, cheap (sometimes!) and interesting hobby. What to avoid, where to buy and suggested items to collect.
automobilia car auto brochure collecting
If you have read the previous articles in this series you should now have a clear idea of what brochures you are trying to obtain for your collection.

Now for the fun bit! Starting, maintaining and increasing your collection.

As you are collecting second-hand items, the condition of an item you are after can vary dramatically. Also, it does not help that sellers regularly either omit or misdescribe items.

Therefore, it is paramount that you ask the right questions and look for what the seller hasn’t said as much as what he has in his advert description.

Having been disappointed on more than a few occasions when a “pristine?item has arrived through my letterbox, I have a checklist that I consult before committing to buying. The list is as follows:

1) What is the size of the item in centimetres? Pictures can be deceptive and what looks like a 21cm x 29cm item, may be much smaller in size.
2) How many pages long is it? Beware that on smaller brochures, there can be confusion between seller and buyer with what represents a page. My firm only uses the term “pages?for items that are 6 pages long or more. Otherwise, we use the term number of “sides? As a reputable seller, this avoids any confusion and disappointment.
3) What is the reference number of the brochure? Most manufacturers have a code system for their brochures that you will become familiar with very quickly. By keeping a note of the references, you will avoid duplicates in your collection.
4) What is the condition of the brochure? Amazingly, very few sellers have a condition scale attached to the advert (we do). One person’s “pristine?may be fit only for the bin in other collectors eyes! I therefore ignore vague words like the above and ask direct questions ?Has it any creases or tears and if so how many and how bad? Any fading? Any foxing (A term used to describe stains, specks, spots and blotches in paper)? Any water or damp damage?
5) How will the item be delivered to you? On auction sites especially, it is natural to go for the cheapest posting method. However, if the item is being sent for the cost of the stamp, can you really expect anything more than for it to be delivered in a flimsy envelope? Probably not. The only way that a collectable paper item should be sent is in a card-backed envelope preferably marked “do not bend?with the item wrapped in plastic to prevent water damage and a return address inside, just in case the postal system loses it. I also insist on a proof of posting, again just in case the item goes missing. For any item over a preset limit, in my case ?0/$60, I offer to pay extra for recorded delivery. Better safe than sorry.

If you get a satisfactory answer to the questions above, you will be as certain as you can be that you will get the item and that it will be of a standard reflecting the price you have paid. The list sounds a bit daunting, but essentially it boils down to ensuring you know what you are getting and making sure it arrives in the same condition with which it left the seller.

Many is the time that I have received a sodden envelope that contains a perfectly preserved item because I have insisted on it being wrapped in plastic. If the seller says, he does not normally do this, offer to pay extra for the service or if practical, collect the item. If your seller cannot or will not take this care, may I suggest that you walk away and wait for another to turn up.

Please remember that for older brochures especially, a bit of fading and foxing and the odd crease or small tear is perfectly acceptable. In fact, I prefer an item with a patina to an “as new?item as it seems to have more character.

Finally, unless it is extremely rare, I would avoid buying any incomplete, falling apart or badly damaged brochures. On the whole, they have little or no value and it is best to wait for a better one to be offered for sale.

Next week, I will be discussing the correct way to store your collection.

Acura RSX: Swan Song

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If you like the Acura RSX, hurry down to your local Acura dealer and get one today. This model year promises to be the last one for the venerable Acura coupe.
Acura RSX, Acura Integra, Acura MDX, Acura TL, Acura RL, Acura Legend, Acura Vigor, Honda Element
When Honda launched the Acura brand in 1986, two models powered the fleet: the Integra and the Legend. Since then many other models have been added to the Acura line up and the Integra was eventually renamed the RSX and the Legend was later given the RL designation. After two decades of service, the Integra/RSX is in its final year of production. Please read on for reasons why the Honda Motor Company will kill off this once popular seller.

Blowing Up Bridges ? When Honda created Acura, the company wanted one “bridge model?to be included in the mix to help Honda owners transition to Acura. The thought back then was that the price differential between the two brands would be too much for many one-time Honda owners to swallow. Thus, the Integra was created and priced only slightly higher than the most expensive Honda model, but well below the prevailing price of the Legend. With this pricing plan in place, Honda believed accurately that Integra/RSX owners would eventually opt for a more upscale Acura. Today, however, Honda is now actively separating the two brands with individual research and development departments in play. Furthermore, Acura is being repositioned to better compete against Infiniti and Lexus, two Japanese luxury brands without a bridge model.

Invest Elsewhere ? Related to the first point, the RSX was due for a change. The current model is old and the monies to bring about a new model would take away from the company’s bottom line. Acura has mentioned that a coupe version of its popular TL sedan is likely to be introduced to satisfy whatever consumer demand remains for a luxury coupe.

Changing Consumer Tastes ? While a sports coupe has its advantages, the market for this type of car is limited and dwindling. Chevrolet gave up the Camaro, Pontiac the Firebird, while the Mitsubishi Eclipse and Ford Mustang manage to hold their own. None of these cars are on the luxury level of the Acura and consumer interest has been steadily dwindling over the past five years.

A New NSX? ? Acura’s discontinued NSX, a two seat sports car, is rumored to be coming back. Although sales will likely be limited to less than 10,000 models annually the high priced NSX would be the “halo?model for the Acura fleet. USA Acura dealers want the car and it appears that the Honda Motor Company many oblige.

In its heyday the Integra was a popular seller and a frequently stolen car. Hard to find parts made the Integra a popular target of thieves; expect this problem to worsen as the RSX goes completely out of production. So, if you don’t have an alarm system installed on your Integra/RSX yet, do so today. The Integra/RSX you currently drive may be the last one you own; don’t let thieves make that determination for you!

Antique Classics ?Cars That Last

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The term Antique Classics is used in reference to old cars. According to Antique Automobile Club of America, an antique car is generally defined as a car over 25 years of age. However, the exact legal definition for the purpose of antique vehicle registration varies widely from State to State.

With about 12 years being the normal design life of modern cars, 25 years is about double and therefore a car that’s reached 25 is a rare survivor, and probably not economic to maint…
antiques,classic cars,antique cars
The term Antique Classics is used in reference to old cars. According to Antique Automobile Club of America, an antique car is generally defined as a car over 25 years of age. However, the exact legal definition for the purpose of antique vehicle registration varies widely from State to State.

With about 12 years being the normal design life of modern cars, 25 years is about double and therefore a car that’s reached 25 is a rare survivor, and probably not economic to maintain as regular transportation.

The term Classic Car is often used synonymously with the term Antique car, but the formal definition of that term is restricted to specific high-quality vehicles from the pre-World War II era which began with the Great Depression in 1930 and ended with the recovery after World War II in 1948. The Classic Car Club of America (CCCA) defines the term Classic as a “fine” or “distinctive” automobile, either American or foreign built, produced between 1925 and 1948. A Classic was high-priced when it was introduced and was built in very limited quantities. Although, by 1930′s most of the manufacturing technologies had already been invented, certain factors like including engine displacement, custom coachwork and luxury accessories, such as power brakes, power clutch, and automatic lubrication systems, help determine whether a car can be considered a Classic.

Some exemplary pre-war Antique Classics are:

1. 1934?940 Bugatti Type 57. The Type 57SC has become the singular classic car.

2. 1934 Citroën Traction Avant. Has the distinction of being the first mass-produced front-wheel drive car,

3. 1936 MG T series, a sports car meant especially for American soldiers fighting in the war.

4. 1938 Volkswagen Beetle, the most-famous automobile of all times. It was a pre-war design that continues to exist even in the present times.

The CCCA Club keeps a thorough list of the vehicles they consider Classics, and while any member may petition for a vehicle to join the list, such applications are carefully scrutinized and very rarely is a new vehicle type admitted. They also acknowledge the fact that their rather exclusive definition of a classic car is by no means universally followed and hence they generally use terms such as “CCCA Classic?or the trademarked “Full Classic?to avoid confusion.

After 1930 the number of auto manufacturers came down sharply, as the industry consolidated, and developed after the war more advances in engine design were made, like the compression V8 engines and modern bodies from General Motors, Oldsmobile and Cadillac brands.