Northwood University graduates first class of Automotive MBA students.

We don't usually toot our own horn but we want to congratulate our founder and editor on his recent achievement of graduating as part of the first ever Automotive MBA program offered by Northwood University. Albert Heiles was one of eighteen graduates of the first cohort to graduate with this prestigious honor on December 11th, 2010. The cohort made up of eighteen students from all areas of the auto industry from vehicle manufacturers to aftermarket product companies to dealers.

"This is a great program for anyone that wants to be challenged to transform our industry and also assess their own behaviors and attitudes," commented Elgie Bright, district sales manager, Chevy-Eastern Michigan, General Motors.

The program  also allowed for an excellent networking tool for students and friendships and relationships flourished over the course of the program.

The 27th month program included a comprehensive masters degree program focusing on business operations, finance, international trade, individual freedom and entrepreneurial values. Northwood University is no stranger to the auto industry. Since 1961 they have been the only university to offer a comprehensive degree focusing on the business side of the auto industry 

Congratulations to the 2010 Graduates of Northwood University.

Source: Northwood University.

[Press Release]

MIDLAND, MI – The DeVos Graduate School of Management celebrated the graduation of the inaugural class of its Dealership Executive MBA program (DEMBA) at Northwood University's commencement ceremony on Saturday, December 11, 2010.

The cohort consisted of students from all over the country representing the following companies. Association of Finance & Insurance Professionals, Autobahn Automotive Media, Autotrader.com, Central Atlantic Toyota Distributors, Manheim Online Solutions, Credit Acceptance Corporation, DCH Auto Group, Flemington Car & Truck Company, Ford Motor Credit Company, General Motors, John Brothers, Inc., Nissan North America, Fidelis Systems, Performance Auto Group Family of Dealers, Performance Chrysler Jeep Dodge of Lincoln, Talisman Suzuki, and Vaughn Automotive New Vehicle Dealership.

"Northwood has a rich history with the automotive industry and remains committed to further developing leaders throughout the competitive automotive marketplace," said Dr. Lisa Fairbairn, dean of the DeVos Graduate School of Management at Northwood University.

Several recent DEMBA graduates expressed their experience with the program. Sara Villarin-Yi, comptroller at Talisman Suzuki, said, "I would have to say that whatever success my dealership will be experiencing it will be because of this program. I started not knowing much about the automotive industry but finished with a plethora of knowledge and great friends." "This is a great program for anyone that wants to be challenged to transform our industry and also assess their own behaviors and attitudes," commented Elgie Bright, district sales manager, Chevy-Eastern Michigan, General Motors.

Rick Levitin, Infiniti dealer product & service trainer at Nissan North America, added, "This Northwood MBA has given me the critical thinking skills necessary to meet the unique challenges of our dynamic automotive industry. I am able to quickly apply the curriculum material and best practices shared among classmates to my contact with the Infiniti dealer body."

The Dealership Executive MBA (DEMBA) program, introduced in 2008, is an innovative MBA curriculum specifically designed to meet the ever-growing needs of leadership development within the retail automotive industry.

ABOUT NORTHWOOD UNIVERSITY
Northwood University is committed to the most personal attention to prepare students for success in their careers and in their communities; it promotes critical thinking skills, personal effectiveness, and the importance of ethics, individual freedom and responsibility.

Private, nonprofit, and accredited, Northwood University specializes in managerial and entrepreneurial education at three full-service, residential campuses located in southern Florida, mid-Michigan and northern Texas. Adult Degree Programs are available in eight states with many course delivery options including an online option. The DeVos Graduate School offers full-time, evening and industry specific master's degree programs for entrepreneurs and executives in Michigan, Texas, Florida and Switzerland. The Alden B. Dow Center for Creativity and Enterprise in Midland, Michigan, specializes in creative thinking and innovation development. International education is offered through study abroad and in Program Centers in Switzerland, China, Malaysia and Sri Lanka. Northwood University also operates the Margaret Chase Smith Library in Maine.

More Cal Look.

Just some more California dreamin. Even though this car's from Europe.

This is why winter isn't cool in the North East.

We don't have So Cal Speed Shop opening their doors or vintage rail dragsters hanging out in the street. This comes from our friend Goodies who treks back and forth from Europe to the US a couple times a year.

Ok, I think we will

We're goin Buggy for VW Bugs!

Aother beautiful cal looker

The sun, the color, the sunroof, the wheels, the stance. P E R F E C T!

Boy that's nice

Nothing quite like a European interpretation of a classic California Look VW. This one's a 1963 built by the folks at The Bug Box.

The Bug Box

Tonight. On an all new Top Gear.......

That's right folks. Top Gear USA is finally making it's US variant debut on our shores. Tomorrow night, Sunday Nov. 21st at 10/9 Central on the History Channel. Hosted by Adam Ferrara, Tanner Faust, and Rutledge Wood, along with (non Ben Collins) Stig. I don't expect it to take the place of the original and still the best Top Gear from the BBC. Especially since the hosts so far aren't Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May. But it's worth a shot and will make for another automotive show to watch that doesn't revolve around Nascar. So that's a good sign. So who's the US Stig? I'm betting on Mario Andretti.

Top Gear USA

The days of wine and roses

From a time when it took a real man to chase down a split window corvette at over 100 miles per hour on bias ply white walls and a lap belt. These guys were serious race drivers.

A few more from So-sos.

Positive Camber

No one can deny the 1927 Bugatti type 37 as one of the greatest grand prix racers of the early 20th century.

Car crashes in to Pennsylvania drivers license center.

Earlier today a vehicle crashed into a drivers license center in Collier Township, Pennsylvania. Thankfully no one was seriously hurt. No word on if the student taking their test passed. Likely no, however there must have been that really awkward moment after the student at the instructor confirmed they we ok.

Source: WTAE Channel 4 News.

COLLIER TOWNSHIP, Pa. -- A car crashed through the entrance of a driver license center in Collier Township on Wednesday afternoon.A witness told Channel 4 Action News' Tara Edwards that a young driver appeared to be taking a test with an instructor when the car went through a window, sending glass shattering inside the center.Sky 4 flew over Chartiers Valley Shopping Center on Washington Pike as the car was removed from the driver license center and loaded onto a flatbed truck.A photo taken by a Channel 4 Action News viewer showed the vehicle sitting in the waiting area of the driver license center before it was removed.Emergency dispatchers said two people suffered minor injuries.Police have not said how the car ended up inside the building.

Are you the next VW Beetle?

While VW has made no official announcements of the replacement for the bow finished VW New Beetle. This interesting mule was recently spotted testing in (we assume) Germany. VW has remained very tight lipped in regards to the fate of the replacement Beetle other than they were in fact working on a car and that it would overcome the outgoing New Beetles flaws. Notably the cute look and lack of trunk/rear sear room. Also the new car would ride on an entirely new chassis from the previous car which still used the 4th generation Golf platform.

This new car has a more traditional Beetle look with a longer front hood, and the body appears to be stretched significantly, but that may be an illusion created by the lower roof line. VW did cunningly fix the outgoing Beetle's tail lights and both bumpers to this car to disguise it. But when you're dealing with the most recognized car in the world. It's a little hard to keep people guessing.

Look for a later feature on one of the last New Beetles produced soon from a recent test drive we did, along with a review of the new 2011 Jetta.

Source: Edmunds.

Coming soon! 2011 Porsche 911 Speedster! With video.

Recalling one of the most famous road Porsche's in history, Porsche is launching the 4th generation Speedster. Based on the 911, the Speedster recalls Porsche's heritage of the original 356. The new Speedster is set to debut in Paris next month and will officially go on sale in December. Porsche is only going to produce 356 copies of the new classic. So act fast. Instantly noticeable is the lower ride height, wider rear track and raked windshield. All paired with the hard cover that goes over the 911s rear seat area. There are a few other body changes, like the rear bumper and side skirts. And who can deny those awesome modern Fuchs alloys taken from the 911 Sport Classic? The new Speedster packs a healthy 408 horsepower. The new 7 speed Doppelkupplungsgetriebe transmission is the only choice and also Richard Hammond's favorite to pronounce. The Speedster will only be available in the exclusive Pure Blue paint or optional Carrara White. However, I'd imagine that further color choice are available to make your new Speedster a truly one of a kind car. The interior again is unique to the Speedster, but color options are not available. Check out the full press release after the video.

Read the press release below:

Exclusive Small Series Limited to 356 Cars

Fourth Edition of a Sports Car Legend: The New Porsche 911 Speedster
Stuttgart. Very low-slung, very sporty, and very rare: The Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche
AG, Stuttgart, launches a small edition of a new 911 Speedster. Paying homage to
the first Porsche model that bore the name Speedster – the 356 Speedster –, the
production run for the new model is limited to 356 cars. The two-seater is significantly
different from the other members of the 911 family. In the best tradition, the 60 millimetre
lower, more raked windscreen, the flat contour of the sporty-look manual hood,
and the characteristic double-bubble hardcover for the soft top define the striking profile
of the new 911 Speedster. This makes the body of this rear-wheel drive with its
44 millimetre wider rear stand out even more. The new Porsche 911 Speedster will
celebrate its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show in early October.

The new 911 Speedster combines the classic features of this type of Porsche sports
car with further improved performance of the current 911 generation: The 3.8-litre flat
six delivers 408 hp (300 kW), 23 hp more in comparison with the 911 Carrera S. With
its average consumption of 10.3 litres/100 km (27.43 mpg imp) (NEDC), the new
Speedster is no less efficient than the 911 Carrera S Cabriolet without Powerkit – an
effect of Porsche Intelligent Performance. The seven-speed Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe
(PDK) is in charge of transmitting power to the rear axle fitted with a
standard differential lock. Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) and Porsche
Ceramic Composite Brake (PCCB) are standard, too. Add to that exemplary
protection for driver and passengers in the new 911 Speedster. Especially for this model, the Porsche engineers further improved the rollover protection system which
is standard in all open-top Porsche cars.

The conception of the current Speedster comes from Porsche Exclusive – the company-
owned "enhancer" specialising in individualisation of Porsche cars and small
series. The 911 Speedster heralds the 25th anniversary of Porsche Exclusive which
will be celebrated in 2011, and once again, demonstrates the small-series competence
of Porsche Exclusive after the big success of the 911 Sport Classic.

Living up to the Porsche Exclusive standard, the 911 Speedster features almost all
optional equipment of the 911 series and its appeal also comes from its meticulously
hand-finished interior in black smooth-finish leather with numerous exterior colour
painted details exclusive to the Speedster. These include decorative designs with
checkerboard patterns in the seat centre section of the adaptive sports seats reminiscent
of a chequered flag, and the leather side bolsters in the exterior colour.

The sporty flavour is further enhanced by the exterior colour “Pure Blue” that has
been developed exclusively for the Speedster, providing an intriguing contrast with
the tinted front lights, black headlight rings, black windscreen surround and other
black decorative designs. Upon request, the Speedster is available in Carrara White,
at no extra cost. It also features a special front apron, specific sideskirts and a distinct
rear apron.

In 1953, the Speedster series was launched with a puristic sports car based on the
Porsche 356, which had two sports bucket seats, doors with slide-in plastic side windows,
and a shortened, elegantly curved windscreen. In 1988, the Speedster based
on the 911 Carrera celebrated its revival with an added feature. For the first time, the
hood compartment lid had the characteristic double bubbles. In 1993/1994, the next
evolutionary stage of the 911 Carrera was ushered in with yet another Speedster.

In Germany, the 911 Speedster including country-specific equipment and 19 % VAT
is priced at Euro 201,682 and will be launched in December 2010.

Make Way For The Jaguar

The Jaguar Auto Company was not always known as that agile cat on the path. Back in 1922, the firm was established as the Swallow Sidecar Company. They where in the beginning focused in the design, development and production of sidecar motorbikes. It absolutely was only soon after the second Globe War that the firm has formally changed its name to Jaguar. It holds its factory and headquarters in England to this day. In 1968, the company formed a merger with the British Motor Corporation before it was rule by Leyland Motors.

Jaguar invariably is recognized for its output of fine luxury vehicles. These cars and trucks have continually been seen as a form of a status symbol exactly where typically the elite plus the nicely off demographic of society own a unit. True to its form, the logo or the emblem with the Jaguar is depicted like a leaping Jaguar; in which the front paws are curled and ready for take-off even though the face is fierce as if it were definitely about to attack prey. Four-door saloon designs ended up the ordinarily generated types; these were often utilized as an executive car or truck or the comparable to an estate car. However, they've launched 2-door coupes and sport scars that had been normally opted for by the younger demographic. The Jaguar is known largely for elegance of the designs in the cars. The most commonplace individuals who decide to have a two-door or convertible can be those of bachelors and single women. The convertibles and several similar models have been common to the function and added attract the public.

Though this firm is acknowledged for creating luxury vehicles, it has likewise took part in motor sports. Jaguar debuted inside Australian Grand Prix in 2000. It's completed a total of 85 races to the team. Yet, in 2004, Red Bull purchased the team following Jaguar racing completed their final season.


.

The Volkswagen Golf 5- Straightforward a fine automobile

 I experienced earlier a 45 Hp Ford Fiesta, 15 many years outdated and consequently also the initial repairs powering me. In wintertime, I experienced issues with the commence every so often and not really enjoyable to drive. I used to be in initially spot by a number of auto dealers to advertise on the Seat Ibiza, but then closed them again, simply because you 1st again from 1,80 m headroom no longer enjoys, and in the finish of the VW approximately the same charges cash, even though you've got to say feasible that right here much better processing driving it.


You give us the complete gear of the Instrument for Vw, which a single hopes.

On this volume, the final end result, calculated the automobile dealership, the 15% low cost and helps make able to request a invest in contract, which need to be signed after which it back again once again. In fact, not so challenging to be on all of the formalities, and so forth. but this really is totally defined and is achievable with a tad of skill anything. I also decided to decide up the car in Wolfsburg straight and built it for the og MAG Bonte in Brunswick simply to select up the winter weather wheels, since the shipping would have taken one more forty €, which you can very easily save.

And when you invest in a new Volkswagen, You've got to have pick it up in Wolfsburg. The exhibition in the other cars belonging to Vw (Bugatti, Lamborghini, Audi, and so on.) is worth seeing along with the surrender in addition to factory tour quite intriguing and fascinating.

You are able to consume extremely nicely there and remain if essential. They agreed to make an appointment and guide a tour and also the relaxation can be a quasi explained for the ground. Very first of all I was impressed aided by the style whether from front, rear or facet, what can I believe that compete within the value array and dimension without other automobile - beware: this can be my feeling!
But if you sit in it after, you wish to obtain no a lot more authentic.



As referred to over, I've in fact selected the Comfortline, which helps make the car or truck seem from the inside just fine and all fittings are created of higher high quality substantially. There can also be a parking support with sensors around the rear and also the front wheel in conjunction with the distance from the displays. Atlanta in the bundle includes sport seats front integrated at the rear of the rear window and each rear aspect windows 65% darkened.

There are 14 inch aluminum wheels to your right to depart the auto appear sporty, and so on. The added stereo speakers make for a excellent sound practical experience with uncomplicated operation of the radio and CD player for audio and mp3 formats. After which it probably the most necessary:

the 102 HP you are able to sense not just when driving, but also pay attention to truly excellent! So far I've done it as much as 200 km / h, but there is still a lot more which naturally now does not desire to spoil it. The sports suspension guarantees optimum grip inside corners and could be a bit more violent movements without the need of issue. All in all just a amazing driving for adequate funds I advise to every person!

The Top of The Line Mazda

One particular company which has managed to maintain its personal against several contenders ranging from luxury marques and sports vehicles to household vehicles is Mazda. Mazda Motors, headquartered in Hiroshima, Japan, has captured a current market of individual car or truck lovers who gravitate in the direction of high-performance, fun and inexpensive vehicles.




The business was founded in 1920. It was once named Toyo Kogyo. Mazda's three-wheel truck production started in 1931. Mazda can be not match to bigger auto business players like the top 3 producers, but it has succeeded in setting itself apart by adding sporty flavor to its cars. Hence, Mazda has gained a following not just while using leisure-oriented industry but also with executives. It has gained acceptance on the elite set that uses various car or truck users.

Mazda introduced its R360 Coupe, a two-passenger auto, in 1960. A year later, it presented the Mazda B-series 1500 compact pickup. The year 1962 marked numerous milestones for the vehicle maker. It commenced local assembly in South Korea, and also introduced the Mazda Carol 600, a four-door passenger vehicle. The Mazda Familia appeared in October 1963.

Mazda knowledgeable a significant sales slump throughout the 1960s. Mazda applied to be part of the Ford group. It partnered with Ford Motor Company within the 1970s in order to survive the American oil crisis.

Other automotive highlights in Mazda's background include the production of the B360/B600 Keicar pickup truck, the Cosmo Sport 110S, the Chantez keicar, the Luce/RX-4 luxurious automobile and also a minivan called Bongo. The launching in the market of the Cosmo in 1976 made a stir. A lot of car aficionados marveled at the luxury design and competitive price. In the course of the 1980s Mazda seasoned a rebirth, with requirement for its 323 and 626 soared inside the U.S. current market. In 1990, the Mazda MX-5 Miata also helped with brand strength and company vigor.

To date, Mazda continues to increase its marketplace reveal. One of its innovations, the Mazda5, is probably one of the most agile minivans in the market.


Do you like super fast sports cars? You will find thesupercars.org very useful for information about exotic sport cars. Make sure to also visit used maserati.

Update on Barry Meguiar

More details have finally emerged on Car Crazy host, gar nut and wax guru Barry Meguiar. We have learned that Meguiar was admitted to the hospital just before Monterey weekend. Doctors determined that Meguiar had developed a rare and deadly form of viral pneumonia.

He was immediately admitted to the ICU and was placed in a drug induced coma for eight days. Meguiar was released from the hospital this week and will be fine and is expected to return to hosting Car Crazy in October according to Speed.

Meguiar (67) credits God with saving his life along with the talented and car crazy staff at Community Hospital of Monterey Peninsula. 
"Car guys are literally working in every department, and all the things that make car guys special permeate this place, from the high performance of their equipment to the determination to go the extra mile," he said. 

Here's to a speedy recovery Barry!

BMW "No Reverse" Transmission Problem

An automatic transmission is just that- automatic, consequently most people tend to pay very little attention to it until a major problem rears its ugly head.

Picture the scenario- you are driving along in the lap of luxury, the satellite radio blaring and the heated seats on. You have become accustomed to the comfort level and great driving experience brought to you by BMW.



You decide to stop at the local convenience store on your way home to grab some ice cream for the kids and a bottle of water for yourself. Upon returning to your car, you start it up, check your rear view mirror, put the shifter in reverse and then the unthinkable happens- the engine just revs as if it is in neutral and the car goes nowhere!

This article deals with the reasons behind an unexpected loss of reverse in certain BMW automatic transmission equipped vehicles, specifically the 3 series and 5 series vehicles that use the ZF5HP19 or steptronic transmission. This includes the popular 323i, 323ci, 325i, 328i, 330i, 525i, 528i, 530i, X3 and X5 models well as some others built in the 1999 to present model years.

To eliminate confusion, this does not apply to vehicles equipped with the GM 5L40 E transmission, just the ones with the sometimes problematic ZF5HP19. The 5L40 E has some issues of its own that are beyond the scope of this article but are certainly going to be the subject of another.

The failure rate for these transmissions seems to be very high and is expected to become much more of a problem as time goes by.

Typically, the vehicle is working perfectly while driving forward but when it is put in reverse there is a complete and permanent loss of movement to back up.

Reverse is typically a major feat for any transmission to accomplish- imagine the demands that are placed on a gearbox as it is asked to reverse the torque of your engine so that you can back up your nearly 4000 pound vehicle.

By far, the most common cause of the reverse problem in BMW's is the failure of the D-G clutch drum. Specifically, the snap ring that retains the D or reverse clutch breaks out of the clutch drum resulting in an inability for the clutch pack to apply.

The good news is that there is hope in regards to a proper repair. The factory has released an updated part that so far appears to be a permanent fix for this problem.

In our testing and in conjunction with several hundred successful repairs at our facilities, the new part seems to be metallurgically superior in several ways.

We have found that there is an improved radius area as well as slightly thicker casting. In addition to this, the grove that retains the snap ring is also relocated further away from the edge of the drum.

With this issue addressed and attention to detail in several other areas of the ZF5HP19 unit, the transmission can be repaired to "better than new" condition by a competent transmission rebuilder / remanufacturer. In fact, when properly repaired, the ZF gearbox becomes quite robust and can provide an almost indefinite service life.

Stolen Mustang found!

Good news from our friends over at Motown Muscle. The stolen 91 Mustang we put the APB on Sunday has been found. Police in Brighton, Michigan located the mustang and alerted the owner yesterday morning that his Mustang was found, and completely whole. Here's the rundown of what happened from the owner Matt a.k.a 91trunk.


"The car was taken Saturday night (looking at the video to see what time). The chain to the gate was cut. The guard that came on duty that morning was doing his rounds and notice the gate open more than normal. As he walked up, there was link cut in half laying on the ground. He re-chained the gate, made the phone call to who he was suppose. (I'm going to leave the rest out due to things happening at the dealership).

Fast forward to Sunday morning, I came to the dealership to pick the car up for Blackstang's Daughters car show. I ask the guard to unlock the gate so I could grab my car. I was gonna pull the trailer inside wash the car and meet up with my buddies. I pulled in back where the trailer was sitting and it was gone. At first I thought maybe a co-worker had played a trick and pulled it in the building because both gates were chained. When I was told the story about why the gates were still locked (can't say why yet, it's involves someones job) I called the police. A2 PD came out took the report and put the car in the system as stolen.

This morning at 3 am A2 PD left me a message saying they found my car. I figured it was a shell in Detroit, but to my surprise it was in Brighton. Turns out my car is still a street car ( ), since the guy took his GF to dinner and was at the car wash cleaning it. Brighton PD rolled through the car wash and ran the plate. The plate came back as a Jeep, so the officer started talking to the guy. The guy lied and said it was his fathers car and things weren't adding up, so he ran the VIN. After it came back stolen he arrested the guy and he confessed to stealing the car. He told them the trailer was at his house still hooked up to the truck and my helmet and fire jacket were in his house.

I just got back from Brighton where the car was in impound. The car was kept inside and was in perfect condition (Thanks Corrigan Towing). I don't know if the car was hurt (engine or trans) yet, but everything was there. The only two things missing were the straps and set of old slicks that were sitting on the front of the trailer (the ramps were even there ) She is now back safe and sound here at the dealership. I'll be loading her up tonight and taking her to a new secure storage place.

I want to thanks everyone here for keeping an eye out, spreading the word it was stolen and well wishes. I don't know where my luck came from, but I sure did have it this time. I also want to thank the Brighton PD for being in the right place and the perfect time. Without them, I don't think she would have been found."

You have to admit that it's comical when someone is so stupid to steal a unique car like this mustang and just throw different plates on it and then take your best girl out to dinner to celebrate your stupidity.  Here's to Matt getting his pride and joy back!

A photo of the homecoming.

Calling all cars! Be on the lookout for a stolen 1991 Ford Mustang

This one goes out to our readers in Michigan. Be on the lookout for a 1991 Ford Mustang notchback drag car stolen from Varsity Ford lot near Ann Arbor, Michgan. Dark red race car, on a black open trailer (see pic). Custom MI plate Says 91TRUNK. Please call Matt @ 734-660-4013 with ANY information. There is a reward offered for the return. Attached is a photo of the car.

ABT Sportsline Car Tuning

This is a tuner that has a priority on brands VW, Audi, Skoda and Seat. Located in Kempten im Allgau, Germany. Discovered by Johann Abt with first degree on race Trophe de l'Avenier. In 2003, his business was continued by his brother Hans Jurgen Abt and Christian Abt. Since 1999, after a victory in Super Touring reinforcements, they decided to participate in the event with the Audi A4 DTM berengsi as the base car. And to commemorate that achievement, made Audi TT-R ABT Sportsline seris in 2002.

 Some claim that a famous ABT AS4-R, based Audi A4 Avant. Using a bi-turbo 2.7-liter V6 with power up to 480 hp. Modified Luxury & Exotics magazine gave the title "That delivers a grocery getter." Next was the Audi R8-R supercharged with features, 2.4-liter V8 engine with power up to 530 hp.

AC Schnitzer car tuning

This is a special tuner of BMW and Mini. But also today expanded its on BMW motorcycles. Been around since 1987, where they make high performance components for BMW include the chassis, custom exhaust system, lightweight racing wheels and aero kits. Many of the parts they are officially distributed at BMW dealerships around the world (738 dealers and 45 branch offices).

Among the BMW mania, AC Schnitzer name spelled Have a glorious prestige. One of the best achievements when they are bearing the "Fastest Street Legal BMW Thew IN The World" for the BMW M6 Tension. This is evidenced in Nardo Italy with power tracks 552 hp maximum speed 331.78 km / hr.

Filsosofi AC Schnitzer is a high performance driving performance, safety and reliability. In addition, the AC Schnitzer also makes interior parts made of carbon or aluminum for quality contol panel, steering wheel, pedals and other interior molding

History Of Lexus Car Company (Traces Of Hard work)

Mercedes-Benz takes a century to build a reputation as the largest luxury carmaker in the world. Likewise, BMW, Cadillac, Jaguar and a luxury car brands others began building his reputation in the early 20th century.

Lexus only took a decade to climb to the level occupied by Mercedes-Benz and others that.

Lexus was phenomenal. Not just a shining sales figures, but also numerous awards from all corners of the boost his reputation. That's all the result of hard work to create quality products, supported by marketing strategies sniper and first class customer service.



The emergence of the Lexus can not be separated from the automotive business conditions at that time. Where the Japanese car producers felt it was time to get into the luxury car segment after successful mencipatkan quality mass production cars at competitive prices.


In fact, although the Japanese car brands famous for kehandalnya, but for incoming kelingkaran luxury car brands which are held by Germany, England and America, it is very difficult. To get around that obstacle, it was decided to prepare a new brand specifically for luxury car brands.

Lexus trip since the idea of listening to his name flying now coined, many historical milestones that unfortunately missed. Includes a stumbling block that must be passed.

Challenges Eiji Toyoda

August 1983, Toyota Chairman Eiji Toyoda, Toyota to make sure it was time to ascend to a higher level. In the super-secret meeting, attended by high-ranking Toyota officials-including the strategist and engineer, submitted a brief question, Can we create a luxury car to challenge the best? Answer vigorously not only that but the room echoes resonate in the mind of every person, these challenges must be overcome.

Autumn 1984; Project F1 starts. The letter F stands for flagship and most luxurious sedan one depicted. Chief Engineer Shoiji supported Jimbo and Ichiro Suzuki all general managers and engineers overseeing the development of all aspects of a car, ranging from the handling, braking, traction control, engine, electronics systems and corrosion.

In its development, Jimbo team conducted a study in the USA (May 1985). They met with the dealers in San Francisco, Houston, Miami, and New York to get an idea about the American consumer. Five members of the team sent to Laguna Beach, California to observe the lifestyle and incorporate design concepts to fit the luxury-car buyers in America. This team spent the summer in Southern California and worked with designers at Calty Design, Toyota's American design studios.

The first prototype unit 450 F1 was made in July 1985 successfully. This is the work of 60 designers, 24 engineering teams, engineers 1.400, 2.300 and 220 technicians supporting people. 11 months later the F1 prototype was tested on Autobahn, Germany. Ten months of extensive testing on the streets USA starting September 1986. This test produces improvements in handling and suspension. Also include an audio system and the long distance test. Tests in Sweden generate traction control improvements. F1 final design is approved, after eight failed presentation to management.

Sued the Lexus brand, the award came

January 1988, the Lexus brand and its logo was introduced at the Los Angeles Auto Show. A month later his debut at the Chicago Auto Show, also without a car only images of actual car, an intriguing video show and a pinch of general information. This introduction was continued at Atlanta Auto Show and the New York Auto Show. The blue-presume, Lexis, a legal information network, filed a lawsuit against the use of a Lexus. April 1988 filed a lawsuit to court in New York. Lexus continues to be marked with the laying of road stone for the construction Lexus of Columbus in Ohio in August 1988.

November 1988, F1 prototype named the LS 400. LS mean luxury sedans and 400 showed 4.0-liter V8 engine. Smaller version named 250 ES. ES is an executive sedan with 2.5-liter engine. A month later the Lexus took Nakamichi and Pioneer sound system to produce the LS 400. January 1989; LS 400 and ES 250 to debut at Detroit Auto Show. A day later, the Lexus appeared on the Los Angeles Auto Show.

March 1989, the Court lawsuit stir Lexis and Lexus has the right to use that name. The success was greeted with the first units were produced from the factory Lexus LS 400 in Tahara, Japan in May 1989. In the first four months of sales, 2.919 1.216 units of the LS 400 and ES 250 units sold.

Lexus started a new tradition of customer service standards. Just because a customer complained about the cruise control and several complaints about the stop lamp, Lexus decided to recall LS400 sold 8000 units to be examined in December 1989. Dealers contact the customer personally and make improvements quickly. Instead of criticism, even compliments are obtained. Lexus has created a new standard in personal service.

January 1990, Car & Driver magazine put the LS 400 s in the position of the peak at 1990 New Car Buyer s Study. Since then, endless awards given at the Lexus. Among Best Imported Car of the Year from the Motoring Press Association (February 1990), Best Luxury from Motor Week's Drivers' Choice Awards. Peak, topped the Lexus in JD Power and Associates Initial Quality Study (July 1990). Award of J.D. Power is very prestigious to be subscribed Lexus for years.

May 1991, Lexus SC400 sports coupe launched. In design at Calty Design, California. Starting July Coupe is marketed. Followed by the launch of SC 300 in August and in September 1991menggantikan ES 300 ES 250. This year, Lexus became the biggest-selling imported luxury car in the USA. 71.206 units sold, more than Mercedes-Benz or BMW.

The threat of trade war

January 1993 Lexus introduced the GS 300 luxury sport sedan in Los Angeles and Detroit Auto Show. May 1995, a big threat comes from the U.S. Trade Representative Mickey Kantor will set a 100 percent import duty for certain Japanese luxury cars, including all Lexus models. The proposed new duty for workers in the 7500 Lexus threaten America. 11 hours of negotiations in June 1995 succeeded in reaching an agreement between the USA and Japan as well as an end to the potential trade war.

A month later the Lexus was elected again as the best in JD Power and Associates Customer Satisfaction Index for the sixth consecutive. No other brand can equal in the history of this research. Lexus sales in August 1995 to recover from the effects of the new duty plan.

January 1996; LX 450 was introduced and became the first Lexus SUV. Only in the two months immediately grab the top best-selling luxury SUV, the Range Rover shifts. September 1996; Lexus ES 300 introduces a new generation of cheaper, although there are additional features. Three months later, this model won the award Top Car Award from the American Automobile Association.

In February 1997 Lexus introduced the concept of Sport Luxury Vehicle (SLV) in the 1997 Chicago Auto Show. SLV combining characters mid-size SUV with the comfort of a luxury sedan and Performance on-road that has not been found in other SUVs. A month later, Lexus announced the production version, named SLV RX300. This model was produced from mid 1998.

Lexus introduced the technology Variable Valve Timing-intelligence (VVT-i) to gain more power in September 1997. Starting from the latest generation GS400/300, LS 400 and SC 400 / 300.

Lexus introduces the LX 470 at Los Angeles International Auto Show in December 1997. Using the new V8 engine, more spacious rooms and a sophisticated suspension height can be arranged. Meanwhile, Lexus sales skyrocketed. Sales in 1997 recorded 20% more than in 1996.

January 1998; RX300 was introduced in the North American International Auto Show. March 1998, LX470 and RX300 started to be marketed in 174 dealers throughout the USA. RX 300 sales immediately shot. December 1998; Lexus best annual sales record in history. Sales reached 156.260 units, up 60% compared to 1997.

Sales skyrocketed

A month later introduced the Lexus IS compact sport sedan at the Detroit Auto Show and will ship mid-2000. For the first sale of the first quarter (January March 1999) Lexus beat out Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Lincoln and Cadillac.

Lexus introduced the Lexus Sport Coupe concept at the Tokyo International Motor Show in October 1999. December 1999, its fourth annual Lexus sales record ever made. Sales in 1999 reached 185.890 units or an increase of 19% compared to the previous year. Total sales of Lexus in the USA has more than one million units.

January 2000, Lexus introduced the IS 300 at the Los Angeles Auto Show and LS 430 at North American International Auto Show in Detroit. At the 2002 North American International Auto Show, Lexus introduced a third SUV, GX470. This year, Lexus introduced the RX 330, the second generation RX300.

Lexus IS 200d 2011 (New car)

Lexus seems to see the football lunge sultry BMW 3 series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4. That's why Lexus IS can be revised to better compete with the three heroes of European origin.

Lexus claims this change represents a significant change since the IS was released. IS 2011 will be exhibited at the Paris Motor Show 2010.



IS 200d IS 220d will be present to replace. The IS 200d is still using the 2200 cc engine of the IS 220d, but it has been imbued DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter). In this case Lexus IS200d sacrificing power and torque. Power and 200d IS 148 Nm and 360 Nm, while the IS 220d 175 hp and 400 Nm. In addition, acceleration 0-100 km / h IS 200d is also 1.3 seconds slower than 8.9 seconds.

Focus Lexus IS 200d is to make the engine more economical and environmentally friendly. Fuel consumption to be 19.61 km / liter, more economical 1.77 km / liter. CO2 emissions 14 IS 200 fewer grams / km, to 134 grams / km. Lexus made a few steps to achieve those goals, such as redesigning the combustion room (combustion chamber), put the injector-injector fuel a new generation of piezoelectric.


Another model is the IS 250. The IS 250 will be sold only in the automatic transmission option. Refreshment happens on the machine. Although still using the previous IS 250 engine, V6, 2500 cc, Dual VVT-i, with the same power and torque of 205 hp and 252 Nm, after all, gasoline consumption and gas emission throw better. IS 250 gasoline consumption to be 11.90 km / liter from 11.24 km / l. CO2 emissions fell from 209 g / km to 194 g / km.

Revisions in the kitchen runway also experienced IS 250C (coupé cabriolet). Now, with gas consumption of 10.87 km / liter, before 10.75 km / liter. CO2 down 6 g / km to 213 g / km. The IS 250 is still holding the previous model engine, V6, 2500 cc, 205 hp and 252 Nm.

If the three models above have reset at the touch of the engine, not two F-Sport IS model. F-Sport IS 250 and IS 200d M-Sport received refresher exterior and interior. The front of the IS F-Sport was rewarded with a grille and spoiler, fog lamp, which is new. Rear spoiler brake lights hangout and its redesigned alloy wheels.

Aura sporty F-Sport IS forwarded to the interior through the steering wheel, the transmission lever, pedal-pedal and the front seat of a sporty leather and Alcantara. Touch of titanium effect can be found on the door trim as well.

In the UK, the price of the Lexus IS begins to U.S. $ 37,830 (IS 200d SE)

Anti Bullet Car Jaguar XJ Sentinel

If you are looking for anti-bullet car and the best anti-bomb, please come to the Moscow International Motor in 2010. In the event that was held August 25 to 29 that will be used Jaguar xj Sentinel as a place of self-display.

Jaguar xj Sentinel is the ballistic protection level of B7 saloon. Level B7 - bulletproof 12.7 mm - is the highest grade in the protection against bullets, the lowest is B2. So if there is an enemy of your business you are showered with AK-47 rifles, AK-74AP, M16, or M61, just ignore. Even the Sentinel xj body and floor are also anti-bomb 15 kg of TNT. Jaguar guarantee 80 000 km for Jaguar xj Sentinel.



Jaguar xj Sentinel construction made of super strong steel with Kevlar as supporters. Jaguar took Centigon, one of the specialist anti-ballistic car maker, in making the defense. To ensure that xj Sentinel international protection standards, Jaguar xj Sentinel has obtained a certificate from QinetiQ, an independent organization that tests and ballistic bombs.

Jaguar V8 engine wear, 5000 cc, 385 hp, with six-speed automatic transmission. Saloon is capable of weighing 3.8 tons accelerates 0-100 km / h in 9.7 seconds with a top speed of 195 km / hr.

Jaguar has not released a price. However, Jaguar offers a range of individual choices.

And you thought American La France only made fire trucks

Here's an interesting story from our friends over at Hemmings Motor News. So you thought that American La France only built fire trucks? Think again. Between the years of 1907 and 1914 ALF actually did build speedsters for consumers to buy. These of course being speedsters on a grand scale, as they used the traditional frames and engines from their fire truck counter parts which were heavy duty to say the least. It's not clear how many were built, but they are definitely few and far between. We recently came across a 1914 model at a recent car show for the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix this past July. As you can see from the Porsche 356 parked next to it, there's nothing small about this speedster.

(link via Hemmings)

Barry Meguiar in serious condition.

There's hardly a car guy around who doesn't know who Barry Meguiar is. As CEO of Meguiars Car Care and host of the Car Crazy television program, Barry's energetic smile and passion for cars has beamed him into the minds of many. We are not exactly sure why, but Barry is currently in the intensive care unit of the Monterey Community Hospital in California in serious condition. We will post further details as they become available. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Meguiar family.

(via AutoWeek)