Tag Archives: 1979

Motorsport

Here’s Your Chance To Own The Oddest F1 Car Of All Time

Jody Scheckter is finest identified for profitable the 1979 Formula One World Driver’s Championship. But he additionally hung out driving the six-wheeled Tyrrell P34, probably probably the most weird F1 automotive of all time. Now, Scheckter is promoting his private P34, an unique chassis constructed right into a full-on, working race automotive in 2008.

While the P34 initially raced in the course of the 1976 and 1977 seasons, this one’s comparatively quick historical past means it presents in glorious situation. “Chassis 8” is paired to an accurate Ford-Cosworth DFV 3.0-liter V8 engine.


Motorsport

Watch Fox-Body Ford Mustang Pump Out 386 HP At The Wheels

The Fox-body Ford Mustang was available from 1979 through 1993 and has achieved robust aftermarket support that has let owners build vehicles into drag racers, track cars, or whatever else a person could want. This one from Late Model Restoration hits the dyno, and it’s ready to eat up the quarter mile. The company calls the machine Dragula because of the black paint and coffin-like cabin.

Under the hood, there’s a modified 351-based V8 engine that now displaces 393 cubic inches (6.44 liters). It also has new cylinder heads and camshafts. There’s a 90-millimeter throttle body. A Pro-M engine management system keeps things running. The gearbox is a five-speed manual that goes through an aluminum driveshaft with 3.55 gearing at the back. The exhaust gases exit through pipes that make a muscular note.

The dyno shows this Mustang making 386.1 horsepower and 410.6 pound-feet at the wheels. In comparison, even the 1993 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra, which was among the top versions of the factory-available fox-body models, made 235 hp.

This car previously had a turbo and an engine with different internals. It made 443 hp and 414.2 lb-ft in that guise. However, all of the power was at the top end of the rev range. This means that as a street car, the current setup would be superior because more power and torque are available at lower rpms. At reduced revs, this tune has around 100 hp and 75 lb-ft more than the forced induction setup. 

For comparison, the 2024 Ford Mustang GT makes 486 horsepower and 418 pound-feet. It weighs around 3,843 pounds and reaches 60 mph in an estimated 4.5 seconds.

Today, the Ford Mustang and Dodge Challenger are in a sales battle. As of Q3 2023, Ford has moved 35,315 of its pony cars. Meanwhile, Dodge had delivered 35,350 units of the brand’s competitive product.

Cars

Is the Pricey Mercedes G-Wagon Really Worth It?

Back in 1979, the G-Wagon had a measly 71 horsepower. Today, each G550 model features a powerful twin-turbocharged 4.0 liter V8 engine, providing 416 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque. This impressive power is delivered to the wheels through a standard all-wheel drive system with locking differentials on both the front and rear. Additionally, the G-Wagon sits 9.5 inches above the ground, allowing it to handle various obstacles with ease.

The newer second-generation G-Wagon offers a better ride, thanks to its independent front suspension and lower center of gravity. However, its boxy shape and tall profile still result in significant wind noise and uncertainty when maneuvering corners. Despite this, the G550 surprises with its quick acceleration, able to reach 0-60 MPH in just over five seconds, with a top speed limited to 130 MPH.

In recent years, other luxury SUVs like the Land Rover Defender, Audi RS Q8, and Maserati Levante have challenged the G-Wagon’s status as the go-to luxury off-roader, offering lower prices. Nonetheless, for those in the market for a G-Wagon, the higher price tag may not be a deterrent. It’s worth noting that the G550 does have some downsides, including a small cargo area, cramped rear seats, and poor fuel economy.

Ultimately, the G-Wagon appeals to buyers because of its rugged toughness, military heritage, celebrity endorsements, and timeless design.