Tag Archives: better

Dealer Technician Destroys Alfa Romeo, Porsche, and Mercedes During Test Drive

You take your automotive to the vendor’s service division hoping the car leaves in higher situation than when it arrives. Sadly, that wasn’t the case for this Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio that crashed right into a Porsche 911 and a Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class on show within the showroom’s car parking zone, as photographs shared to Reddit present.

The proprietor instructed Motor1 that he took this 2017 Giulia Quadrifoglio to the vendor for minor repairs. Then, the store referred to as to inform him there was an accident. “They told me they were doing a test drive after the repairs, and a minivan cut them off, causing the driver to overcorrect and swerve up the embankment, hit a tree, and go airborne,” the proprietor says. Other Reddit threads about this incident stated the service particular person was drunk. “I don’t believe alcohol was involved, that just seems to be a Reddit rumor,” he stated.

 

Going airborne undersells the scene. The Giulia Quadrifoglio crashed on prime of the 911, inflicting the Alfa’s rear to relaxation contained in the Porsche’s passenger compartment. The Italian mannequin’s nostril got here to relaxation in opposition to the GLE’s aspect, making a bridge between the three automobiles.

Judging by the harm, the Porsche and Alfa Romeo are possible totaled. The 911’s roof is crushed in, and the Giulia’s nostril is smushed. There’s additionally possible untold harm to the Alfa’s undercarriage, which may significantly hurt varied mechanical elements.

To make issues even sadder for the proprietor, he had solely owned this Giulia Quadrifoglio for 5 months. The automotive had a customized exhaust and was lately handled to some vinyl work.

The harm to the Mercedes does not look as excessive. It’s secure to imagine, nevertheless, that not many consumers would desire a new GLE that already has a crash on its car historical past report.

We requested the proprietor how the vendor was responding to the technician crashing his automotive however have not heard again but. Since a service particular person was driving, the showroom must be accountable for making issues proper. Hopefully, they make the proprietor entire by paying for the damages.

What Happens To An Engine When You Overfill It With Oil?

In the right amount, fresh engine oil will better protect against excess friction during cold starts while offering maximum lubrication during extreme hot weather. Every gas or diesel engine can only accommodate a prescribed amount of oil, and pouring too much into the crankcase will cause the oil to foam or thicken, essentially disabling the oil’s ability to flow in hot or cold operating conditions.

If the oil can’t flow, it cannot pass through the tiny oil passages to lubricate the valvetrain, combustion chamber, pistons, and other internal components. It’s no different from vigorously churning milk and turning it into butter, and a thicker, buttery consistency is not what an engine needs to prevent it from breaking down.

Moreover, more oil means raising the oil pressure unnecessarily, which leads to leaky gaskets and oil seals. If your vehicle suddenly has an illuminated check engine light after an oil change and has symptoms like blue or white smoke, subpar performance, or unusual engine noises, it could mean the engine is drowning in oil.

PNY’s Ponie P2 E-Scooter Wants To Reshape The Last-Mile Delivery Industry

When it comes to tackling the urban jungle, bigger isn’t always better. We’re seeing this trend with the new electric two-wheelers that are hitting the market, focusing on practicality and utility. An excellent example of this is the new Ponie P2 from Israeli e-mobility startup PNY. The new electric scooter seeks to raise the bar when it comes to performance, practicality, and accessibility, specifically in the last-mile delivery industry.

Recent years have ushered in a lot of last mile delivery services. Indeed, you could go as far as saying that this sector is the life blood of the economy of many countries. As cities grow, and urban infrastructure becomes more dense, the challenge of fulfilling deliveries within the urban jungle becomes even more difficult. The Ponie P2 looks to make life easier for delivery riders in the city. It was built from the ground up to fulfill the ever-changing needs of all sorts of on-the-go professionals.

PNY Ponie P2 - Frame

In order to achieve this, it employs an interesting design that’s remarkably simple, modular, and configurable. PNY states that the Ponie P2 can easily be adapted to the specific needs of different folks. Out of the box, this electric scooter provides an impressive cargo capacity of 400 liters, as well as a payload capacity of up to 120 kilograms. As such, it’s perfect for transporting all sorts of products and services of various shapes and sizes. Central to the scooter’s design is the odd looking frame which has been designed to provide maximum durability and safety.

On the performance side of the equation, the Ponie P2 is powered by a 4000-watt electric motor housed in the hub of the rear wheel. According to the company, this motor provides the scooter with a top speed of 100 kilometers per hour, or about 62 miles an hour. Meanwhile, the battery consists of a 72-volt unit that boasts a claimed range of 150 kilometers (about 94 miles) on a single charge. This should be enough for most delivery riders’ routes on a daily basis.

PNY Ponie P2 - Compartment
PNY Ponie P2 - Display
PNY Ponie P2 - Motor

For even more convenience, PNY throws in a bunch of tech, such as an Apple CarPlay-ready seven-inch display. Additionally, the scooter sports a large and lockable compartment with a USB charger for on-the-go convenience when it comes to powering up your gadgets.

It’s important to note that as of this writing, PNY has yet to confirm the availability date of the new Ponie P2 utility scooter. Pricing has also yet to be announced, however, PNY says that it’s currently working to finalize its distribution network. That being said, we can expect to see the brand’s electric two-wheelers hit the market in the not too distant future. Feel free to check out what else PNY has to offer by visiting their official website.

See The Ford Ranger Raptor Set Oddly Specific Guinness Record

Stunt driver Paul Swift has a long list of records, and at the British Motor Show in August, he set a new one. Using a Ford Focus ST and a Mustang Dark Horse, he completed five stunts in 57.21 seconds, setting a new record.

Shortly after, Paul set another record while driving a Ford Ranger Raptor. He achieved an oddly specific Guinness World Record by navigating the tightest gap driven through by a pickup truck on two wheels.

2024 California Superbike School Calendar Released: Get Ready to Improve Your Riding Skills

If your New Year’s resolution is to become a better rider, then you’ll be excited to know that the schedule for the California Super Bike School in 2024 has just been released. This schedule includes information on the locations, levels, and prices of the courses.

The California Super Bike School, founded in 1976 by Keith Code, is known for its success in transforming novice street riders into factory racers. Code is not only the founder of one of the most prestigious riding schools in the world but also the author of “A Twist of the Wrist,” often referred to as “the cornering bible.”

As one of the most renowned schools globally, the California Super Bike School offers up to four levels of training. Even with just the first level, riders can learn a great deal.

2023 California Superbike School

The 2024 schedule will start later this year, with the final sessions of 2023 taking place on November 25 and 26, 2023, at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. After that, the school will have two more dates on February 10 and 11, 2024, and March 9 and 10, 2024, all on the same track in Vegas.

Following these dates, the California Super Bike School will visit various race tracks and states, including the Streets of Willow Springs, the Virginia International Raceway, the New Jersey Motorsports Park, the National Corvette Museum, The Barber Motorsports Park, Sonoma Raceway, The Ridge Raceway, Pittsburgh International Race Complex, and Thunderhill Raceway.

The school will continue to rotate between these tracks until its final round at the Las Vegas Motorspeedway on November 3 and 4, 2024. To find out the specific dates and locations that the school will be nearest to you, check out the full schedule on their official website.

Introducing the GasGas MC-E 2: A New Electric Dirtbike for Kids

If you want to get your young ones started on two wheels, there’s no better time than now. The Pierer Mobility Group, which includes KTM, Husqvarna, and GasGas, has released their 50cc and 65cc mini-crossers for kids. But that’s not all. GasGas has recently introduced the MC-E 2, a smaller electric off-roader designed for smaller kids.

The GasGas MC-E 2 is specifically designed for kids with heights ranging from 90 centimeters to 130 centimeters. It serves as a stepping stone for young riders transitioning from balance bikes to motorized two-wheelers. According to GasGas, the MC-E 2 is affordable to run, delivering over an hour of riding time on a single charge.

2024 GasGas MC-E 2

The MC-E 2 offers just enough power for young riders to grow into. It features three power modes that allow parents to control the power output as their child progresses. At its highest level, the motor can reach a top speed of 33 kilometers per hour (or 21 miles per hour). The motor is located in the rear hub, providing the bike with a rear-biased center of gravity and eliminating the need for a chain, which reduces maintenance.

In addition to adjustable performance, the MC-E 2 also has multiple adjustment points on the frame, ensuring that kids of different heights can confidently ride. The lightweight aluminum frame and reinforced fiberglass subframe work together to keep the weight manageable and handling precise. The bike is equipped with WP suspension, offering 90 millimeters of travel in the front and 70 millimeters in the rear.

Safety is of utmost importance when it comes to kids’ riding. GasGas understands this and has included a wrist lanyard that automatically turns off the motor when detached. The bike also has a rollover sensor that shuts off the motor if it detects that the bike has tipped over. Additionally, 140-millimeter hydraulic disc brakes provide confident stopping power.

The GasGas MC-E 2 is already listed on GasGas’ official website and should be available at select GasGas dealerships. For accurate pricing information, it is recommended to contact your nearest GasGas dealer or visit their official website.

10 Sports Cars that Look Way More Expensive Than They Are

There is nothing better than driving around in a car that makes you feel like a million dollars, and there is no better car to help you feel this than the beloved sports car. Whether drivers want to slalom around a track, hit the country roads, or simply want to cruise; sports cars are the driving enthusiast’s choice.

With manufacturers like Ferrari, Lamborghini, Porsche, and Maserati dominating the sports car segment, it may seem to many that they will have to part with tens and tens of thousands of dollars, potentially hundreds of thousands of dollars, to buy a sports car that not only looks the part but also performs. But have no fear, as there are currently plenty of sports cars on the market that not only look like they should be worth a lot of money but are relatively cheap. So what could be better; an expensive, sleek-looking sports car that turns heads but costs a fraction of the price?

Here at TopSpeed, we are proud to provide readers with the most up-to-date and interesting information on all things cars. To bring you the most accurate data about 10 sports cars that look more expensive than they are, we have looked up information from automakers, and trusted sites like Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book, Car & Driver, Top Gear, and Fueleconomy.gov. Models have been arranged from the most affordable to the most expensive.

Related: 10 Cheap Sports Cars That Are Outrageously Reliable

10 2012 BMW Z4

Average Price: $17,800

2012 BMW Z4 in black posing in parking lot
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The 2012 BMW Z4 is a mean-looking machine, thanks to its sultry curves and aggressive, low stance. This drop-top roadster combines stunning aesthetics with thrilling performance, making it a true head-turner. Boasting a long hood, pronounced kidney grille, and sleek headlights, it’s a sports car that allows the driver to make a statement when they hit the road.

Specifications and Performance

Model

sDrive 28i 2.0 Liter, Inline Four, RWD

sDrive 35i 3.0 Liter Inline-Six, RWD

sDrive 35is 3.0 Liter, Inline Six, RWD

Horsepower

240 Horsepower

300 Horsepower

335 Horsepower

Torque

260 Pound-Feet

300 Pound-Feet

332 Pound-Feet

Transmission

Six-Speed Manual

Six-Speed Manual

Seven-Speed Automated Manual

Driveline

Rear-Wheel Drive

Rear-Wheel Drive

Rear-Wheel Drive

Fuel Economy (CMB)

27 MPG

27 MPG

27 MPG

0 – 60 MPH

5.5 Seconds

5.1 Seconds

4.8 Seconds

Top Speed

130 MPH

130 MPH

130 MPH

All information was gathered from Edmunds, Fueleconomy.gov, and BMW.

Under the hood, the Z4 offers a range of engines that deliver power and performance. From the peppy four-cylinder to the growling inline-six, this roadster doesn’t just look good; it goes fast too. The precise steering and sharp handling make every twisty road an exhilarating ride.

9 2012 BMW M3

Average Price: $23,600

2012 BMW M3 Coupe Competition Package in silver Posing in parking lot
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The 2012 BMW M3 is like a perfectly tailored suit for car enthusiasts. It’s all about the muscular appearance that screams power and performance. Featuring flared wheel arches, an aggressive front bumper, and signature quad exhaust pipes, it’s a visual symphony of sportiness. Inside, the cabin provides a perfect blend of comfort and support with carbon fiber trim and M-specific seats.

Specifications and Performance

Model

2dr Coupe/Convertible 4.0 Liter, V-8, RWD

Horsepower

414 Horsepower

Torque

295 Pound-Feet

Transmission

Six-Speed Manual

Driveline

Rear-Wheel Drive

Fuel Economy (CMB)

16 MPG

0 – 60 MPH

4.3 Seconds

Top Speed

174 MPH

Information gathered from Edmunds, Fueleconomy.gov, and Car & Driver.

The M3’s distinctive power dome hood hints at the beast lurking beneath. Its 4.0-liter V8 engine delivers a raucous 414 horsepower, providing exhilarating performance. With its stunning appearance, luxurious interior, and heart-pounding performance, the 2012 BMW M3 offers a lot for less than $25,000!

8 2016 Mercedes-Benz SLK

Average Price: $24,000

2016 Mercedes-Benz SLK in red posing in front of city scene
Mercedes-Benz

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz SLK offers a huge amount of luxury and style for the price. With an average used price of $24,000, drivers not only get exquisite German engineering but also a classic-looking sporty roadster. The SLK’s sleek lines, iconic front grille, and elegant contours give it a refined charm that turns heads wherever it goes.

Specifications and Performance

Model

SLK 300 2.0 Liter, Inline Four, RWD

SLK 350 3.5 Liter V-6, RWD

AMG SLK 55 5.5 Liter V-8, RWD

Horsepower

241 Horsepower

302 Horsepower

335 Horsepower

Torque

273 Pound-Feet

273 Pound-Feet

332 Pound-Feet

Transmission

Nine-Speed Shiftable Automatic

Seven-Speed Shiftable Automatic

Seven-Speed Shiftable Automatic

Driveline

Rear-Wheel Drive

Rear-Wheel Drive

Rear-Wheel Drive

Fuel Economy (CMB)

27 MPG

24 MPG

22 MPG

0 – 60 MPH

5.8 Seconds

5.6 Seconds

4.5 Seconds

Top Speed

155 MPH

Unpublished

155 MPH

Information gathered from Edmunds, Fueleconomy.gov, and Car & Driver.

Beneath the stunning exterior, the SLK offers a range of punchy engines that deliver power and efficiency, making it a breeze to go top-down and hit the road with the wind in your hair. With its precise steering and sharp handling, every drive in the SLK is exhilarating.

7 2018 Alfa Romeo Giulia Ti

Average Price: $26,000

2018 Alfa Romeo Giulia Ti in blue Posing on woodland road
Stellantis Media

In typical Italian fashion, the 2018 Alfa Romeo Giulia Ti is an absolute beauty that oozes class and style. The cockpit features luxurious leather upholstery and trim that wouldn’t look out of place in a Bentley or Ferrari, providing a comfortable and elegant driving experience.

Specifications and Performance

The Nissan Z Will Have an Orange Paint Option Next Year

The Nissan Z offers a range of vibrant paint options such as Ikazuchi Yellow, Passion Red, Seiran Blue, and Rosewood Metallic. However, it seems that Nissan has plans to add another interesting color to the palette: Orange.

An inside source hinted that the Z could come with a new vibrant orange paint option in the US next year, just in time for Halloween. Although the new hue does not have a name yet, it draws inspiration from the Fairlady Z, which debuted at the Tokyo Auto Salon earlier this year. This particular Z featured a carbon fiber rear spoiler, redesigned front grille, exclusive 19-inch wheels, and the eye-catching 432 Orange paint, paying homage to the classic Z 432 (S30). While the US model may not come with the redesigned bumper or carbon fiber accessories, it will still have the striking orange paint option.

Nissan Z 432 Orange

Orange has been a popular color choice in the Nissan lineup, with SUVs like the Kicks, Rogue, and Sentra offering it as an option. However, the GT-R no longer has the orange option starting from 2024. The upcoming Nissan Z, on the other hand, will make a bold statement with the addition of the vibrant orange paint.

Recently, a JDM-spec Nissan Z with the new 432 Orange paint was spotted at the Heritage Museum in Japan. Despite having a right-hand drive, the vehicle showcased the same 19-inch gunmetal wheels and red-painted brake calipers as the current Performance trim, resulting in an aesthetically pleasing appearance.

In the US, the 2024 Nissan Z starts at $43,305, including the $1,095 destination fee. The Performance trim is available for $53,305, while the top-trim Nismo model, which offers 420 horsepower and an estimated 0-60 mph time of around 4.1 seconds, comes with a price tag of $66,085.

Start ‘Em Young With KTM’s 2024 50 And 65 SX Mini-Crossers

If you’re looking to introduce your child to two-wheeler riding, off-road riding is a great way to start. Since it will be a few years before they can legally ride on the street, there are plenty of off-road two-wheelers designed specifically for kids. Leading the way in this category is KTM.

KTM is a well-known name in the off-road industry, with a strong presence in motocross and rally racing. The brand is also heavily involved in grassroots initiatives. The introduction of the 2024 KTM Mini-Crossers is a testament to KTM’s commitment to this segment. These small off-road bikes are based on the KTM SX range for adults and aim to develop young competitive athletes in the future.

Start ‘Em Young With KTM’s 2024 50 And 65 SX Mini-Crossers

The KTM 50 SX and KTM 65 SX are the two models of the 2024 KTM Mini-Crossers. These bikes are scaled-down versions of the full-size KTM SX motorcycles. They feature a new steel frame with a lightweight fiberglass-reinforced subframe and adjustable height to accommodate growing riders. The KTM 65 SX was developed with input from international test riders to ensure that young racers have the best equipment for future success.

Start ‘Em Young With KTM’s 2024 50 And 65 SX Mini-Crossers

The KTM 50 SX has an upgraded engine with increased displacement for more power. It is designed for young riders and can be adjusted as their skills improve. It also features a larger one-piece radiator and a digital ignition system for consistent performance. The KTM 65 SX also gets an upgraded engine, radiator, and airbox, along with the same digital ignition system as the 50 SX.

Similar to their larger counterparts, the KTM 50 and 65 SX models come with premium suspension hardware from WP. They are equipped with a 35-millimeter WP XACT AER fork in the front and a WP XACT monoshock at the rear, both offering complete adjustability. Both models are expected to be available at KTM dealerships starting in November 2023.

Adventure Spec’s Singletrack Pant Releases In Limited Pairs

Adventure Spec, a small company of dedicated adventure riders, is releasing a limited run of their Singletrack Pant. The company was founded in 2007 by Chris Colling and Dave Lomax in the UK, with a focus on building the best motorcycle adventure gear and promoting sustainable adventure travel. The Single Track Pant was developed over two years to provide a durable and waterproof option for riders who frequently encounter rain. The pants feature a three-layer fabric construction with Nylon for abrasion resistance, a Poly Urethane film for water resistance and breathability, and Kevlar panels for added protection on the knees and hips. The pants also have a leg closure system that can accommodate both small adventure bikes and large motocross boots, as well as multiple vents for airflow. It’s important to note that the pants do not come with built-in armor pockets, so riders will need to supply their own knee and hip protection. The Singletrack Pant is priced at 399 GBP or approximately $485 USD, and Adventure Spec is releasing only 150 pairs for now. If you’re interested, be sure to check out the links in the source list below.

Unlock Your Automotive Passion and Explore the Road Ahead

Model

Ti 4dr Sedan 2.0 Liter, Inline Four, RWD & AWD

Horsepower

280 Horsepower

Torque

306 Pound-Feet