The Autoprophet Geocache Challenge (SOLVED)

Update: SOLVED! We have a winner.

To promote the new season of Top Gear, BBC America sent me some stuff to give away to my readers. They didn't say how I had to do it, so instead of a boring lottery, I have decided to do a geocache.
The Top Gear swag is hidden inside a brown cardboard box, wrapped up in a plastic bag to keep it dry. The prize includes a 2010 Top Gear calendar, a "Stig" coffee mug, and best of all, the complete season 11 and season 12 DVD sets, 6 discs in all.

The Rules:

• The first person who finds the stuff keeps it.
• If you find the booty, please send me an email at TheAutoProphet"at"gmail.com and let me know that you got it. Please mention the secret word (included with the prize).
  
• If no one finds it in two (2) weeks, I will give the whole pile to the Salvation Army for charity
• Extra points: find the bottle of beer that someone left behind (not me) near my cache.
  

The Location:

The goods are located in Oakland County, MI, in a little known municipal park. The box will not be buried, but will be mildly camouflaged.

The cache is not far from the trail, you don't have to do much bush-wacking.

Now, GO GO GO!

Apple iPad

I have been reading about the newly revealed Apple iPad, and I am thinking, "do not want".  Here's why:

• No on-board memory card slot
• No Adobe Flash support
• Closed OS--all apps must come from Apple store
• No camera--this thing should be able to do Skype out of the box
• No on-board USB ports
• No multi-tasking

This is because Apple decided to make the iPad basically an over-sized IPod Touch, not a shrunken Macbook.  Myself, I'd be more interested in a scaled-down Macbook.

I predict this will be a disappointment for Apple, until they fix some of these flaws.  Most people who would be interested in an iPad already have an iPhone, they won't see a compelling reason to get one.

The Fluid Flush Scam

A family member took her compact SUV for its 100,000 mile service recently, and the service manager attacked her with the dreaded "fluid flush gauntlet".  He showed her samples of her transmission oil, power steering oil, brake fluid, and coolant, and tried to sell her about $500 worth of fluid flushes.  He also tried to convince her to change out her rear differential fluid, which is rather expensive, because it comes from nearly extinct whales.

This is a scam.  It is pure profit for the shop.

You should not get any fluid changed on your car that is not recommended by the owner's manual, unless you have special circumstances.  More on those below.

She checked her owner's manual, and while the transmission fluid and coolant were recommended, there was no mention of power steering fluid, rear differential, or brake fluid.

And here's why: all three of these systems are sealed.  In the power steering and brake fluid systems, the fluids are primarily hydraulic working fluids, although they do have some lubrication functions.  If the systems are still well sealed, and are working properly, you may not need to touch them for more than 150,000 miles.

Part of the trick is to show you that the fluids are "dirty".  This is scary, but not necessarily meaningful.  I asked a guy I know, who is involved in the design of power steering systems.  He told me that power steering fluid picks up carbon black from the hoses, and that you can't really tell a 5,000 mile fluid from a 50,000 mile fluid based on color.  His professional advice was, "don't touch it unless you are getting noise from the system or hard steering".  And if you don't want to change it, he recommended using a turkey baster to remove as much from the reservoir as you can, replacing the rest with clean fluid.  "The flushes the service places sell are junk!" he said,"A waste of money."

So when should you change your fluids?

If the owner's manual says it is time to do it, or if something is wrong, or clearly contaminated.  If large particles are obvious in your fluid reservoir, or if there is water in the oil, or if the system has failed in some way, or is making strange noises. 

Easy A Team Art Car Project

The new A Team movie is coming out in June and with it will follow another wave of home made A Team vans. What's great about this particular art car project is that its easy to make and all you need is a black vehicle to start with. The only painting you have to do is the red stripe down the side and all you have to worry about is getting the angle right at the elbow, easy peasy.








Here is the original A Team intro video to get you psyched

Cool Cover Song

Wow, I like.  5FDP does "Bad Company".

"I was born, a shotgun in my hand"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NVTn6qciodo

Urban Trash Art Car from Brazil - Country covered in trash gets a makeover

This Urban Trash Art Car is brought to you by Urban Trash Art that I found via my new ACC central follower Rodrigo Machado who posted it on his blog. Not really a street legal art car due to the lack of any front or side impact safety zones. But it is a good use of trash and these guys go around Brazil and reconstruct trash into these amazing sculptures. I guess that means there is a lot of trash laying around Brazil. Nice work guys!!! Here is the video as well of the two gusy in action.

Toyota Wins Crown Of Shame

I think we can all now agree that Toyota has won the crown of "most severe quality issue" from the previous champions, Ford and Firestone.  Toyota is going to lose hundreds of millions of dollars on this, both directly and indirectly.  Directly, through replacement costs, and lost sales while the plants are down, and indirectly through their damaged quality reputation. 

P.S.A.: Pregnant Women Should ALWAYS Wear Seatbelts

Yesterday, a pregnant woman and her unborn child died on I-94 in metro Detroit.  From the Detroit Free Press:

A 23-year-old pregnant woman died in a car crash on I-94 on Tuesday morning, along with her baby, who was ripped from her body along the freeway.

Shardae Homesly of Detroit was not wearing a seat belt as she rode in the front seat of her SUV, driven by her fiancé, Michigan State Police Sgt. Linda Mys said.

The couple were heading westbound near Morang on Detroit's east side shortly before 11:45 a.m. The fiancé, whose name wasn't released, swerved to avoid hitting a van that began merging into the SUV's path in the far-right lane.

Think about that for a moment.  The baby was "ripped from her body". 

Some pregnant women refuse to wear seatbelts because they are worried that it will "hurt the baby". 

Forget that.  If you are unrestrained, and get in an accident, you and your baby could die. 

The safe way for pregnant women to wear seatbelts is to raise the shoulder belt slightly, so that it crosses the chest above the belly, and to pull the lap belt down a little so it crosses over the hips below the belly. 

The Mystery-Mobile Art Car

The Mystery-Mobile, originally uploaded by ianjacobs.

The Mystery-Mobile art car covered in Mystery Spot stickers was unveiled recently, yet it is still a mystery as to who owns this art car.

Mercedes Bonz Art Car - New meaning to the word road kill

by surlygrrrl [ELBfoto].

by Delta Niner.

This Volvo is covered in hundreds of bones is called the Mercedes Bobz. Road kill just took a different meaning.

Eggs On Windshields: Urban Legend

I got a chain email the other day, warning about a new carjacking tactic. Bad guys would throw eggs at a persons windshield, and then follow them. The person would supposedly have to stop, because windshield wipers would smear the egg around and make it impossible to see.

According to Snopes, this is pure urban legend. Link.

Chevy Volt Driven!

Finally, GM has allowed someone in the press to drive a Chevy Volt with the gas engine enabled and write about it.   Paul E. at DetroitBureau writes,

In normal mode, Volt delivered reasonable acceleration, launching from 0 to 60 in what we estimated to be around 10 seconds.  But switched to Sport mode we got an unexpected jolt.  Electric motors deliver maximum wheel-spinning torque the moment they start to turn, and with Volt, that translates into a very sporty launch feel and 0 to 60 times of about two seconds quicker.

Farah had intentionally given our prototype Volt just a limited charge, just enough so that we could experience the vehicle on battery power then have it automatically transition to extended-range mode – a fancy way of saying its inline-four-cylinder internal combustion engine fired up.  The transition was all but seamless and even with the engine running, the cabin remained surprisingly quiet.

Good news--the gas engine is quiet when recharging the batteries, even in Michigan winter conditions.

You can read the whole thing here.

Oh, and 100 points if you can find the typo, with which Eisenstein accidentally demotes the Volt to a Mitsubishi product.

MAZDA MX-5 Superlight Concept (2009) japanese car

MAZDA MX-5 Superlight Concept (2009)

japanese car pictures, photos, wallpapres, overview, features, specifications, review and auto insurance informations.

- Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept is an answer to the world of automobiles and individual mobility moving towards energy efficiency, environmental compatibility and uncompromised safety - along with dynamic attributes and driving fun. In its efforts to offer pure driving enjoyment, while meeting its ecological and social responsibilities, Mazda has been focusing on weight reduction as a core base technology. For 20 years, reducing weight has been a tradition with the Mazda MX-5. It provided the inspiration for the radical design of Mazda's latest show car and its radical interpretation of the cult roadster -

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MAZDA MX-5 Superlight Concept (2009)

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Features >

MAZDA MX-5 Superlight Concept (2009)

This year Mazda celebrates the 20th anniversary of the first Mazda MX-5 roadster, which laid the cornerstone for its Zoom-Zoom brand philosophy - reason enough for Mazda designers to create a fully-drivable show car, the Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept. There are no plans to build this car, but it demonstrates how individual mobility can be maintained in a way that uses fewer natural resources.

Mazda's European R+D centre in Oberursel has created a show car that represents the essence of Mazda's fun-to-drive aspect. Based on the brand icon Mazda MX-5 Roadster, the Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept is a pure, uncompromising two-seat sports car meant to be affordable to just about anyone. The main challenge for the design team in creating this roadster was "to evolve the MX-5, developed to perfection during the last 20 years, to a higher and extreme level," says Project Lead Designer Hasip Girgin. The result of their efforts is a roadster show car with an exciting design that is especially lightweight and distilled down to the very basics of sporty driving, that still manages to provide modern safety technologies. In an increasingly digitalized world, it creates a linear, direct bond between man and machine. Its conceptual purity means even better driving dynamics and fuel efficiency, which is accomplished by keeping the vehicle below the 1000 kg threshold. As a show car for lightweight construction and driving enjoyment, the Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept is the ideal ambassador for Mazda's brand values. ........... Features >

Massachusetts Automobile Insurance http://www.yankeeins.com/ Massachusetts Automobile Insurance rates now differ with every company. So how do you choose an agent? Personal service! As an Independent Insurance Agent it's our responsiblity to prove the most comprehensive coverage at the most affordable price. With so many changes taking place in the insurance market these days, it's almost impossible for you to know what coverages you should or should not carry, so let us take care of your auto insurance needs. Customers can use this site to download important Massachusetts RMV forms to renew their drivers license or registration, change their address with the RMV, apply for a duplicate title for your vehicle and more. We now even offer the option of submitting a claim right over the web, expediting the claims process. If you've had an auto accident, click the link below and follow the instructions to submit a claim, and please feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns you may have. Not a customer of Yankee Insurance yet? Request a free auto insurance quote, and be sure to checkout the following discounts that may apply to you. Save up to 10% when you insure both your home & auto. Student Living Away at School save Save an additional 10% with Multi-Car Discounts Disappearing Deductibles Guranteed Replacement Cost In-Control Advanced Driver Training Discount U.S. Car Insurance Companies >

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features | MAZDA MX-5 Superlight Concept |

MAZDA MX-5 Superlight Concept (2009)

- Features and technical specifications -

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MAZDA MX-5 Superlight Concept (2009)
Pictures >

FEATURES

Exterior Design
"I've dreamed of building a Mazda MX-5 with this kind of radical form for a long time," says Peter Birtwhistle, Mazda Motor Europe's Chief Designer, referring to the project. "Now that weight reduction has become a dominant factor in automotive development, the time is ripe for it. We show how lightweight a car today can be."

His design team reduced the MX-5 down to its core attributes to create a pure roadster. Development of the production model MX-5 focussed on the bond between driver and co-pilot to the roadster, the car's driving dynamics and its open-top experience. The goal of the Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept was to strengthen these bonds even further. By doing this without a windshield, the retractable top and its frame, designers achieved an important step in this direction. As the Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept, the allweather production roadster has mutated into a driving machine that lets sports car enthusiasts enjoy the natural surroundings unfiltered and tangible. Not only does the wind blow unimpeded during driving, pilot and co-pilot can also experience the sounds, smells and temperature changes of their immediate surroundings. And finally, the show car's intense bond between the driver and the technology of the vehicle gives it a unique closeness that can only be found in stronger form in the cockpit of a race car.

Mazda designers created special roll-over bars, not only because they are very sporty-looking, but also to contribute to aerodynamic efficiency. These also make it clear that roll-over protection is important in this concept. And they prevent wind turbulence around the heads of the passengers, from whom the law would require the wearing of helmets while driving.

By removing equipment not vital to driving, and by replacing vital things with components that support the unique concept of the vehicle, designers sharpened the character of the Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept.

Because there is no windshield, for instance, there is obviously no need for wipers. The roadster show car's completely open design makes the need for outer door handles, side windows and their openers unnecessary. A single, filigree aluminium, wide-angle mirror gives a good view of the road behind. It's placed inside an extension of the bonnet. Front and rear lights are the same as those of the production model with additional LED lamps at the front, and brake lights at the back of each roll-over bar, which contribute to the roadster's sporty look.

The lack of a windshield required an extension of the original aluminium bonnet into the cabin. The attached sheet here is made of lightweight carbon fibre and provides a hood for the dashboard frame.

This also changed the proportions of the body's design, making the front of the car longer and the passengers seem like they are sitting further back towards the rear-drive axle, all of which is enhanced by the massive roll-over bars and their aerodynamic cladding. The Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept translates the dramatic proportions of historical race cars into a very modern form.

Interior Design
The purity in design of the exterior also characterizes the interior design, which does not have aesthetics as ultimate goal, but was conceived to contribute to reducing vehicle weight. Driver and passenger of the Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept are greeted by racing bucket seats made of ultra-lightweight carbon fibre. They are slide adjustable and upholstered with the same saddle coloured leather as the armrests, the steering wheel, and the lightweight aluminium shift lever and hand brake. Colour-coordinated four-point seatbelts hold the driver and passenger firmly in their seats.

The bonnet extension into the passenger cell provides a canopy for the dashboard, which makes the dashboard look smaller than the production Mazda MX-5. Made of lightweight plastic reinforced with fibreglass, it contains the same instruments as the production Mazda MX-5. These are held in place by a dashboard frame made of lightweight carbon fibre. Like a purebred race car, the Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept has an ignition button in the centre of the dashboard, along with two emergency kill buttons for immediate fuel and electricity cut-off.

Supplying air and climate control to the open passenger compartment is only possible in limited form, so the show car has no air conditioning and no fans. Air-flow is increased when the roadster accelerates, and only small air vents are needed. The interior is made without any trim. Sound insulation mats and rugs do not meet the requirements of a purist roadster like this and are not used at all.

Also made of ultra-lightweight carbon fibre is the "floating-design" centre console with iPod® adaptor and the triangular reinforcements in the trimless doors. Driver and passenger can rest their arms here while driving.

Driving Dynamics
The Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept is fully-drivable, but there are no plans to produce it in the near future. Under the bonnet is the cultivated and frugal MZR 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine paired to the production roadster's five-speed manual transmission. It develops 93 kW/126 PS of maximum power at 6,500 rpm. For an appealing engine sound, there's a Mazdaspeed cold-air intake made of polished and powder-coated aluminium and a Mazdaspeed exhaust system, both of them specific to the Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept. These systems deliver more intake air-flow, and less exhaust-gas back pressure.

The engine sound is designed to suggest an engine with much higher displacement than the concept actually has. During charge cycles, a high-resonance bubbling sound in the muffler delivers the exciting sporty sound you expect from a very powerful engine.

The show car is designed to provide improved driving dynamics as well, and uses a four-piston, fixedcalliper brake system with perforated discs that, because of their size required an increase in track of 50 mm. A specially tuned chassis with a Bilstein® B16 coil-over suspension and Eibach® stabilisers give the body of the Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept a ground clearance that is 30 mm lower than the production Mazda MX-5. Its sporty hydraulic power-assisted rack and pinion steering system is the same as that of the regular roadster. Its linear steering, coupled to a precise-shifting five-speed manual transmission with short shift travel, have contributed to the character of the world's most successful roadster for years.

Also from the production model are the roadster's 205/45 R17 original-equipment tyres and alloy wheels from the 2.0-litre version, which are some of the lightest on the market today at less than 8 kg.

Technical Specifications
= Body Type : Roadster Monocoque
= Seating capacity: 2
= External Dimensions
-Overall length: 4,020 mm
-Overall width: 1,720 mm
-Overall height (unloaded): 1,110 mm
-Wheelbase: 2,330 mm
-Track (front/rear): 1,540/1,545 mm
-Ground clearance: 106 mm
= Engine: MZR 1.8-litre petrol
= Max. power: 126 PS (93 kW) at 6,500 rpm
= Max. torque: 167 Nm at 4,500 rpm
= Transmission: 5-speed manual
= Front/rear suspension: Double wishbone/Multi-link
= Damper (front/rear): Bilstein® monotube
= Tyre size: 205/45 R17
= Brake type (front/rear): Ventilated discs/Solid discs
= Brake diameter (front/rear): 300/280 mm
= Acceleration 0-100 km/h: 8,9 s
= Fuel consumption (combined): 6,3 l/100km
= CO2 emissions (combined): 150 g/km
= Min. kerb weight (without driver): 995 kg ......... Pictures >

Massachusetts Automobile Insurance http://www.yankeeins.com/ Massachusetts Automobile Insurance rates now differ with every company. So how do you choose an agent? Personal service! As an Independent Insurance Agent it's our responsiblity to prove the most comprehensive coverage at the most affordable price. With so many changes taking place in the insurance market these days, it's almost impossible for you to know what coverages you should or should not carry, so let us take care of your auto insurance needs. Customers can use this site to download important Massachusetts RMV forms to renew their drivers license or registration, change their address with the RMV, apply for a duplicate title for your vehicle and more. We now even offer the option of submitting a claim right over the web, expediting the claims process. If you've had an auto accident, click the link below and follow the instructions to submit a claim, and please feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns you may have. Not a customer of Yankee Insurance yet? Request a free auto insurance quote, and be sure to checkout the following discounts that may apply to you. Save up to 10% when you insure both your home & auto. Student Living Away at School save Save an additional 10% with Multi-Car Discounts Disappearing Deductibles Guranteed Replacement Cost In-Control Advanced Driver Training Discount U.S. Car Insurance Companies >

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MAZDA 2 (2011) pictures | japanese car photos |

MAZDA 2 (2011)

japanese car pictures, photos, wallpapres, overview, features, specifications, review and auto insurance informations.

- With the Mazda 2, Mazda evolved the athleticism that is inherent to the Mazda design DNA in pursuit of bold and diverse expression of movement. -

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MAZDA 2 (2011)

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Features >

MAZDA 2 (2011)

Magazine-thin laptops, MP3 players and bite-size candy bars are just a few examples of good things that come in small packages. Now, for the first time in North America, Mazda is introducing its own affordable, fun-sized creation - the 2011 Mazda 2. A stylish, eco-friendly, fun-to-drive five-door hatchback, the Mazda 2 is Zoom-Zoom in its most concentrated form - compact and efficient, yet packed with style and substance. It will launch into the North American market in late summer, 2010.

Mazda 2 is the latest in a line of stylish, insightful and hugely fun-to-drive small cars from Mazda, and will bring an all-new level of refinement to the segment, as Mazda 3 did for the compact C-Car market. Mazda 2 is a car that only the engineers at Mazda could have created. It was designed and engineered from scratch to be a pure Mazda, offering the sort of driving experience that could only come from the company that developed the timeless Mazda MX-5 two-seat roadster, and it brings a combination of athletic design and dynamic performance to the subcompact class that simply does not exist at this time.

Originally launched in 2007, the new Mazda 2 was first introduced in Europe, Japan and Australia. Its launch created a unique offering in the B-car (subcompact) segment, especially through its distinguished design and outstanding driving performance. Since then, it has been highly acclaimed throughout the world, winning 48 automotive awards, including "Car of the Year" accolades in many markets, including Japan, New Zealand, Chile, Bulgaria and Greece. Notably, the Mazda 2 was selected as the "2008 World Car of the Year" (WCOTY) at the 2008 New York International Auto Show and has established a distinguished position in the B-Car segment. To date, total global sales have reached approximately 370,000 units in the three years since its introduction, and Mazda 2 is now recognized as one of the global models which symbolizes the essence of the Mazda brand.

While developing the new Mazda 2, Mazda took a thorough look at global subcompact car trends and carefully worked to identify the truly beneficial values that could be infused into a global B-Car. As a result, the new Mazda 2 adds Mazda's unique brand values such as exhilarating driving performance and eye-catching design to the segment without sacrificing the basic requirements for subcompact cars: superior fuel efficiency, high crash safety performance and ample passenger space. In fact, while other carmakers have increased the size of their small cars, Mazda's first mission was to analyze and define the optimal size of a compact vehicle. This resulted in a very efficient body size for the new Mazda 2 without sacrificing attractive features that consumers desire. ........ Features >

Massachusetts Automobile Insurance http://www.yankeeins.com/ Massachusetts Automobile Insurance rates now differ with every company. So how do you choose an agent? Personal service! As an Independent Insurance Agent it's our responsiblity to prove the most comprehensive coverage at the most affordable price. With so many changes taking place in the insurance market these days, it's almost impossible for you to know what coverages you should or should not carry, so let us take care of your auto insurance needs. Customers can use this site to download important Massachusetts RMV forms to renew their drivers license or registration, change their address with the RMV, apply for a duplicate title for your vehicle and more. We now even offer the option of submitting a claim right over the web, expediting the claims process. If you've had an auto accident, click the link below and follow the instructions to submit a claim, and please feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns you may have. Not a customer of Yankee Insurance yet? Request a free auto insurance quote, and be sure to checkout the following discounts that may apply to you. Save up to 10% when you insure both your home & auto. Student Living Away at School save Save an additional 10% with Multi-Car Discounts Disappearing Deductibles Guranteed Replacement Cost In-Control Advanced Driver Training Discount U.S. Car Insurance Companies >

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features | Mazda 2 (2011) | japanese cars |

MAZDA 2 (2011) Features

- With the Mazda 2, Mazda evolved the athleticism that is inherent to the Mazda design DNA in pursuit of bold and diverse expression of movement. -

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MAZDA 2 (2011)
Pictures >

FEATURES

Dynamic Performance
With the Mazda 2, Mazda evolved the athleticism that is inherent to the Mazda design DNA in pursuit of bold and diverse expression of movement. The basic form of the new Mazda 2 is characterized by a combination of dynamic performance, sportiness and simplicity that leaves a strong visual impression. While competitors are producing compact cars with a focus on a boxy body form to prioritize functionality, Mazda shortened the body overhangs and trimmed the corners to the greatest extent possible as a way to provide a form that is compact and sporty, conveys a sense of stability and inspires confidence. By carefully creating a base form and then giving it energetic character lines befitting a B-car, Mazda created a design that is highly distinctive, but timeless.

Concentrated
Mazda pursued a concentrated, taut form for the body as a virtue in itself, not to simply reduce the car's body size. This creative background was advantageous in efforts to achieve maximum dynamic performance within the new Mazda 2's compact body. In other words, the Mazda 2 possesses the essence of Mazda's spirit of compact, sporty dynamic performance - "Zoom-Zoom Concentrated."

Exterior Design Theme: "Coordinated Movement"
In pursuit of a solid form and a richly expressive exterior design, Mazda established an exterior design theme of "coordinated movement". In line with this theme, the design team combined the visual movements created by the car's silhouette, its body lines, and the way in which patterns of light played on the body to create dynamic, multifaceted expressions not typically seen on a B-car. These expressions exude a powerful energy that makes the new Mazda 2 look as though it is moving while standing still. Key exterior design elements include: a sporty wedge shape that conveys a strong sense of forward motion; a deeply sculpted form in which the body is drawn inward fore and aft of the A-pillars; and distinctive character lines that extend from the front fender arches to the body shoulders.

Dynamic Performance Not Found on Competitors in the Segment
Mazda focused on realizing driver-oriented maneuverability and confidence-inspiring driving dynamics for a Zoom-Zoom driving experience that is unique in this segment. At the same time, Mazda maintained a development focus on delivering high cost-effectiveness in situations ranging from day-to-day driving to long excursions on a weekend. Specifically, Mazda worked to make the new Mazda 2 economical to own in terms of fuel costs through its excellent fuel economy and improved durability.

A Powertrain for Sporty Performance with Great Fuel Economy
The Zoom-Zoom driving experience that Mazda strives for has two key attributes: 1) a sense of linear acceleration and deceleration that responds crisply to how far the accelerator pedal is depressed, allowing the driver to control car speed as desired; and 2) a sense of liveliness through immediate response to the accelerator for quick off-the-line acceleration and overtaking. The development team targeted a performance feel reflecting enhancement of both of these key attributes without adversely impacting on the Mazda 2's superior fuel economy as a subcompact car.

Nimble Handling and a Stable Ride
The new Mazda 2 inherits a highly regarded suspension system, which has MacPherson struts at the front and a torsion-beam axle at the rear. With improved steering and braking systems, the resulting dynamic performance yields consistently responsive handling and a smooth, stable ride that draws much from the legendary MX-5.

Superior Quietness and Aerodynamics
In order to create more comfortable day-to-day driving, Mazda took various countermeasures to achieve a quiet cabin environment. Mazda also improved the coefficient of drag values to achieve better aerodynamics, contributing not only to the Mazda 2's quietness, but also to a more sporty ride and fuel efficiency.

Harmony Between Sporty Driving Performance and Environmental and Safety Features
In order to form the best balance between lower fuel consumption, outstanding driving dynamics and top-level safety performance, the new Mazda 2 reflects the close attention paid to minimizing weight through its smaller body shell, optimization of the structure, extensive use of high-tensile steel in its body and many other weight-saving measures implemented throughout the car. Under this approach, Mazda made the best use of weight-saving know-how, similar to the "gram" strategy employed during the development of the MX-5 sports car. As a result, the Mazda 2 has achieved world-leading crash safety ratings (five stars in the Euro New Car Assessment Program (NCAP), the highest possible result) without compromising driving performance and fuel economy.

The Security of a B-Car's Functionality and Maneuverability
In line with the way B-cars are mainly used as day-to-day commuters, with a driver-oriented development philosophy, the Mazda 2 has achieved a level of drivability and nimbleness that enables easy maneuverability, even in small car-parking areas and other tight spaces. .. Pictures >

Massachusetts Automobile Insurance http://www.yankeeins.com/ Massachusetts Automobile Insurance rates now differ with every company. So how do you choose an agent? Personal service! As an Independent Insurance Agent it's our responsiblity to prove the most comprehensive coverage at the most affordable price. With so many changes taking place in the insurance market these days, it's almost impossible for you to know what coverages you should or should not carry, so let us take care of your auto insurance needs. Customers can use this site to download important Massachusetts RMV forms to renew their drivers license or registration, change their address with the RMV, apply for a duplicate title for your vehicle and more. We now even offer the option of submitting a claim right over the web, expediting the claims process. If you've had an auto accident, click the link below and follow the instructions to submit a claim, and please feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns you may have. Not a customer of Yankee Insurance yet? Request a free auto insurance quote, and be sure to checkout the following discounts that may apply to you. Save up to 10% when you insure both your home & auto. Student Living Away at School save Save an additional 10% with Multi-Car Discounts Disappearing Deductibles Guranteed Replacement Cost In-Control Advanced Driver Training Discount U.S. Car Insurance Companies >

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McFly's Hyundai eBay Nightmare

User "McFly" of Hyundai fan site Gencoupe.com won a used Genesis coupe on eBay in an non-reserve auction for $16,000.  The dealer, Glenn Hyundai of Lexington KY, screwed up and forgot to put a reserve price on the car, which is worth closer to $19,000.  Since the auction is supposed to be a legally binding contract, McFly called and tried to finish the deal.   However, the dealer refused to sell the car at the eBay price.

McFly is giving the dealer hell, doing wide ranging internet publicity, approaching news outlet, as well as his state's vehicle sales commission to get justice.  You can read the whole mess here.

Politics

THANK YOU MASSACHUSETTS!

ACURA Advanced Sports Car Concept (2007) pictures

ACURA Advanced Sports Car Concept (2007)

japanese car pictures, photos, wallpapres, overview, features, specifications, review and auto insurance informations.

- The dynamically styled concept provides a preview of the design direction for the successor to the Acura NSX -

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ACURA
Advanced Sports Car Concept (2007)

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ACURA Advanced Sports Car Concept (2007)

The show-stopping Acura "Advanced Sports Car Concept" made its world debut today at the 2007 North American International Auto Show. The dynamically styled concept provides a preview of the design direction for the successor to the Acura NSX.

Created to take exotic sports car styling to a new level, the concept is designed to incorporate a powerful front-mounted, V-10 engine and a new high-performance, rear-wheel-drive based version of Acura's exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive(TM) (SH-AWD(TM)).

"The Acura brand will always be a home for people who love to drive," said Takeo Fukui, president & CEO of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. "As we advance toward building a car like this, I can tell you it will feature advanced technology matching our passion for performance."

The concept's exterior demonstrates a dynamic fusion of advanced technology and emotion. The long, pronounced hood features deeply sculpted lines and embossed air vents, both of which hint at the powerful engine beneath. The exterior lines run the length of the body, creating a ribbon-like effect from the front headlights to the rear wheel arches, evoking a feeling of movement and power.

Although modern in its appearance, the Advanced Sports Car Concept retains the subtle cues associated with its predecessor, the NSX. The concept's slim, LED headlights are pushed wide and designed to mimic the pop-up headlights found on the first generation NSX. Other styling hints include a modern take on wraparound rear taillights and the all black cockpit.

"Our intention was to design an exotic sports car that gracefully combines advanced technology and strong emotion," said Jon Ikeda, principal designer, Acura Design Center. "The technical, machined surfaces and keen-edge design are balanced with sweeping curves and dramatic lines, all of which results in the ultimate exotic sports car."

Wide and low to the ground with a 108.8 inch wheelbase, the concept is anchored by grippy 19 inch front and 20 inch rear performance tires which are mounted to custom billet-machined, polished aluminum wheels. Powerful, ventilated carbon ceramic brake discs and eight-piston calipers accent the wheels. Bold wheel arches and flares add to the concept's aggressive appearance.

The low slung cabin is constructed entirely of tinted glass and sits flush against the body. Door handles are also flush mounted, allowing the sports car to retain a clean and aerodynamic appearance. The Advanced Sports Car Concept features a carbon fiber underbody and the rear is finished with aggressive quad exhaust pipes and integrated rear diffusers, further communicating its high performance potential.

The Advanced Sports Car Concept was designed by the Acura's Los Angeles-based design team that will be based at the new Acura Design Center, opening this summer.

Massachusetts Automobile Insurance http://www.yankeeins.com/ Massachusetts Automobile Insurance rates now differ with every company. So how do you choose an agent? Personal service! As an Independent Insurance Agent it's our responsiblity to prove the most comprehensive coverage at the most affordable price. With so many changes taking place in the insurance market these days, it's almost impossible for you to know what coverages you should or should not carry, so let us take care of your auto insurance needs. Customers can use this site to download important Massachusetts RMV forms to renew their drivers license or registration, change their address with the RMV, apply for a duplicate title for your vehicle and more. We now even offer the option of submitting a claim right over the web, expediting the claims process. If you've had an auto accident, click the link below and follow the instructions to submit a claim, and please feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns you may have. Not a customer of Yankee Insurance yet? Request a free auto insurance quote, and be sure to checkout the following discounts that may apply to you. Save up to 10% when you insure both your home & auto. Student Living Away at School save Save an additional 10% with Multi-Car Discounts Disappearing Deductibles Guranteed Replacement Cost In-Control Advanced Driver Training Discount U.S. Car Insurance Companies >

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ACURA Advanced Sedan Concept (2006) japanese car pictures

ACURA Advanced Sedan Concept (2006)

japanese car pictures, photos, wallpapres, overview, features, specifications, review and auto insurance informations.

- The Advanced Sedan Concept is the purest expression of advanced design, performance and luxury, highlighted by its powerful, wide stance and deeply sculpted surfaces. The primary goal of this design study was to create a sophisticated, refined sedan with a mysterious presence -

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ACURA
Advanced Sedan Concept (2006)

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ACURA Advanced Sedan Concept (2006)

"The Advanced Sedan Concept illustrates Acura's commitment to modern design and cutting-edge style," said John Mendel, senior vice president, auto operations."With our advanced design team taking a significant role in shaping future vehicle design, we can expect upcoming products to reflect this progressive, forward-thinking styling."

The Advanced Sedan Concept is the purest expression of advanced design, performance and luxury, highlighted by its powerful, wide stance and deeply sculpted surfaces. The primary goal of this design study was to create a sophisticated, refined sedan with a mysterious presence.

The concept's generous exterior proportions suggest that a large, powerful engine lurks beneath the surface. The exterior lines reveal a sheer, sculpted lower body contrasted with a taut, architectural cabin. Although ultra-modern in its design, the concept retains the classic silhouette associated with a flagship sedan.

Low to the ground, the concept is anchored by large 22 inch front and 23 inch rear tires which are mounted to custom billet-machined, polished aluminum wheels. Powerful brake discs and calipers accent the wheels and large ducts direct cooling air to the components. Bold wheel arches and flares add to the concept's muscular appearance.

The sleek, compact cockpit nestles atop the sculpted body and flows from hood to trunk. For a unique panoramic view, the roof is constructed entirely of tinted glass that shades the occupants while still connecting them to the outside world.

"We wanted to capture the essence of an ultra luxurious sedan but give it a striking, mysterious presence to create a vehicle with a dual personality," said Dave Marek, chief designer, Honda R&D Americas, Inc. "The concept echoes this quality with its clean exterior lines, a wide, stance, high performance cues and key luxury accents."

The hood is accented with pronounced character lines that culminate in the aggressive five-sided grille, which contributes to the sedan's bold presence. The commanding grille is constructed of polished aluminum and features a cut crystal Acura emblem. The narrow headlights also double as air intakes and are positioned low on the bumper, further enhancing the sedan's already commanding 79.5 inch width.

"The front of the sedan communicates power and luxury," explains Marek. "The pronounced hood and large grille communicate performance, while the jewel-like Acura emblem captures the essence of pure luxury."

In the rear, the Advanced Sedan Concept has a flush mounted rear bumper with the high-mounted stop lamp integrated into the center break of the trunk. The jeweledtaillights are pushed to the outer edge of the bumper to further enhance the vehicle's wide and low appearance, while integrated dual exhaust outlets complement the sedan's performance-oriented style.

During the past decade, several Acura vehicles have been designed and developed in the U.S. including the award winning MDX luxury SUV, the innovative TL performance luxury sedan and the all-new RDX turbocharged crossover SUV. Acura will continue the expansion of its U.S. design capabilities with the addition of a dedicated Acura Design Center that will open next year in Torrance, Ca.

Massachusetts Automobile Insurance http://www.yankeeins.com/ Massachusetts Automobile Insurance rates now differ with every company. So how do you choose an agent? Personal service! As an Independent Insurance Agent it's our responsiblity to prove the most comprehensive coverage at the most affordable price. With so many changes taking place in the insurance market these days, it's almost impossible for you to know what coverages you should or should not carry, so let us take care of your auto insurance needs. Customers can use this site to download important Massachusetts RMV forms to renew their drivers license or registration, change their address with the RMV, apply for a duplicate title for your vehicle and more. We now even offer the option of submitting a claim right over the web, expediting the claims process. If you've had an auto accident, click the link below and follow the instructions to submit a claim, and please feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns you may have. Not a customer of Yankee Insurance yet? Request a free auto insurance quote, and be sure to checkout the following discounts that may apply to you. Save up to 10% when you insure both your home & auto. Student Living Away at School save Save an additional 10% with Multi-Car Discounts Disappearing Deductibles Guranteed Replacement Cost In-Control Advanced Driver Training Discount U.S. Car Insurance Companies >

Choose ACURA by MODELS

CFL Dissapointment

I have been using the spiral-type CFL bulbs in a few places at home, such as in the basement. But recently I broke one of these off by knocking something into it. I replaced it with a new fully encased bulb from GE, which has the flourescent tube and electronics encased in a round glass bulb, looking very much like an over-sized traditional lightbulb.

I'm not happy with this product at all. It takes a very long time to warm up and come up to full brightness, so long that you really notice it. When it is cold, and you first turn it on, it is very dim and gives off a small amount of purplish light.

After about 1min or so it is bright, which seems like an eternity.

I wish VU1 would hurry up with their claimed "next best thing" ESL bulb.

New Detroit 2010: aggresive styling

One of the eye catching displays over at GM is the Buick Regal GS. The Regal is basically the European Opel/Vauxhall Insignia rebadged as a Buick for the US and Chinese market (Buick is a highly regarded marque in China). This GS showcar features a potent performance package – 255 bhp/400 Nm 2.0-litre Ecotec turbo engine with power going to all wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox and electronic LSD.

Acceleration from nought to 60 mph (96 km/h) is “less than six seconds”. The Vauxhall Insignia VXR, which has a 320 bhp 2.8-litre Ecotec V6 turbo does the same sprint in 5.8 seconds. The Regal GS features a lowered body and aggresive styling that mimics the VXR, except that it wears Buick’s signature “waterfall grille”. The show car wears 20-inch wheels.

That front HiPerStrut suspension helps reduce torque steer and maintain negative camber during cornering, improving grip and feel while isolating undesirable feedback. The GS features Brembo brakes with cross-drilled rotors, four-piston aluminum calipers and uprated pads. Interactive Drive Control System (IDCS) chassis technology allows the selection of three modes – normal, sport and GS – that change suspension settings, throttle response and steering sensitivity.

Inside, the Regal GS features a full black interior, sport shifter, a suede-covered, flat-bottom steering wheel and Recaro seats with four-way lumbar support and cushion extensions.