Remember how we had defined the irony of rotary motion polishers being low cost however hostile for learners, whereas the costly twin motion counterparts are virtually idiot-proof? Well, Meguiar’s dual-action polisher combines the most effective of each worlds by borrowing the benefit of a dual-action polisher with the cost-effectiveness of a drill attachment.
Although it is as costly as the most affordable rotary polishers at $39, this drill attachment eliminates the steep studying curve related to cheaper sharpening attachments.
The dual-action nature of Meguiar’s sharpening answer makes it simple to attain a cleaner floor end by decreasing the danger of hologramming, buffer trails, swirl marks, and different detailing defects. We do not advocate springing for this drill attachment if all you want to do is buff out scratches or restore headlights. However, that is effectively value the additional money in case you plan on endeavor bigger sharpening and buffing duties.
Unlike cheaper sharpening attachments, Meguiar’s dual-action polisher can’t be paired with any previous cordless drill. That’s as a result of the mechanism chargeable for producing the multi-axis rotary motion typical of dual-action methods does so with the assistance of inside gears. This, nonetheless, comes at the price of transmission losses. Although Meguiar’s recommends corded drills, you possibly can nonetheless use it with a reasonably highly effective and environment friendly cordless drill, ideally these sporting brushless motors. Anything much less, and also you’re sacrificing sharpening energy.
The most important benefit of the piston engine is its affordability. These engines are low cost to amass and preserve, making them splendid for personal plane operators and flying faculties. They’re additionally a bit extra versatile, as some specifically modified engines may use automotive gasoline, supplied they’ve a supplemental kind certificates approving their use.
Another benefit of the piston engine is its ease of use. Almost all pilots begin coaching on a piston-engined plane, that means many know function one. When I flew a piston-engined Cessna 152, its Lycoming engine responded immediately to my throttle inputs, that means I bought instantaneous engine response every time I added or diminished energy.
However, piston engines have some disadvantages, too. First is its gasoline alternative, which nonetheless comprises lead and is horrible for the surroundings. While the FAA is working to eliminate lead from aviation gasoline, it’s nonetheless 5 years from hitting its 2030 aim. Another drawback of the piston engine is its efficiency — or lack thereof. Piston engines depend on oxygen to effectively burn gasoline, however as you fly greater, there’s much less oxygen within the air. Most piston-engined plane would have issue flying at airliner altitudes.
Furthermore, piston engines have many shifting components that go in numerous instructions, thus making them extra sophisticated and rougher than turboprop engines.
Renault has discovered methods to promote low cost EVs for a revenue. Its low-cost Romanian model Dacia has loved nice success with the Spring since its launch in 2022. More than 140,000 models have been offered so far. For 2024, the refreshingly primary electrical hatchback is getting a considerable makeover.
Don’t name it a next-generation mannequin because it’s extra alongside the traces of a heavy facelift, with right-hand drive lastly accessible. The exterior revisions carry the 2024 Spring according to Dacia’s newest design language seen on the new Duster SUV. There’s an excellent quantity of plastic physique cladding and sq. wheel arches to make this straightforward EV look extra rugged. The exterior tweaks actually make Europe’s least expensive EV extra fashionable in comparison with the unique model which regarded prefer it was caught within the Nineties (at finest).
There are substantial modifications inside the place the 2024 Dacia Spring has an all-new dashboard. Along with a 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster and a ten.0-inch touchscreen, the cabin now has redesigned local weather controls and a brand new search for the air vents. The up to date steering wheel has the brand new DC company emblem, and extra importantly, it could possibly now be adjusted in peak. We additionally discover a brand new gear selector together with a smartphone holder behind it.
For such a small automobile, it is fairly sensible. The entrance trunk can swallow 35 liters (1.23 cubic toes) whereas the rear cargo space has a quantity of 308 liters (six greater than earlier than) or practically 11 cubic toes. Fold the rear bench and the bags capability grows to 1,004 liters (35.5 cubic toes). Several storage compartments all through the cabin provide an additional 33 liters (1.16 cubic toes).
The packaging is respectable when you think about the Spring is barely 3,701 millimeters (145.7 inches) lengthy, 1,767 millimeters (69.5 inches) broad, 1,519 millimeters (59.8 inches) tall, and has a wheelbase of 2423 millimeters (95.4 inches). Depending on the trim degree, the wheels measure both 15 or 16 inches. These Safari Beige and Brick Red colours are debuting with the facelift.
The base Spring has solely 45 horsepower, however you may step as much as a stronger electrical motor with a mighty 65 hp. The latter helps the cheerful EV hit 62 mph (100 km/h) in lower than 14 seconds. Stick to the entry-level motor and the job is finished in underneath 20 seconds. The small 26.8-kWh battery is sweet for over 137 miles (220 kilometers) of vary and takes 45 minutes to cost from 20 to 80 p.c by way of a 30-kW DC charger. From a 7-kilowatt AC charger, you will have to attend practically 11 hours for the battery to go from 20 to 100%. It now helps bidirectional charging, so it could possibly energy your toaster or different electrical home equipment.
The vary is much from spectacular, however Dacia says it is greater than sufficient for the standard Spring person. After analyzing knowledge collected from the infotainment system of the pre-facelift mannequin, the Renault-owned marque discovered that house owners drive their vehicles for about 23 miles (37 kilometers) per day. About 90 p.c of all journeys are shorter than 43 miles (70 kilometers). Data additionally confirmed the Spring is pushed at a mean velocity of 23 mph (37 km/h) and that 75 p.c of householders cost the vehicles at dwelling.
Dacia is proud to say the Spring stays the one EV accessible in Europe that weighs underneath 1,000 kilograms (2,204 kilos). Although the brand new model has extra normal gear and higher driver help tech to satisfy European Union rules, it has placed on simply six kilograms (13 kilos). The totally loaded model within the high trim nonetheless weighs simply 984 kilograms (2,169 kilos).
The Spring will not set your pulse racing however those that need no-frills transportation at a low value with zero emissions will admire this automobile. It’s best for the city jungle and an ideal software for small outlets that ship items. Pricing for the brand new model has not been disclosed however the outdated one was round €20,000 in its home market Romania, earlier than incentives.
It’s value noting the mannequin is inbuilt China and has a Renault model often known as the City Okay-ZE. The two EVs hint their roots to the Renault Kwid launched again in 2015 with combustion engines.
The Mazda MX5 Miata remains popular because it is small, cheap, reliable, and fun to drive, but it may not remain the same due to stricter emissions regulations.
Despite its limitations in stock form, the MX5 delivers a unique open-top, sporty feeling and can easily be improved with aftermarket upgrades.
The current generation MX5 offers a good interior, modern conveniences, and a 2.0L Skyactive engine, but future models may become heavier and less pure due to the potential inclusion of hybrid technology.
Now, more than three decades after its inception, the Mazda Miata MX5 continues to remain popular. The best part is that it hasn’t lost its identity. The current MX5 ND generation remains small, cheap, reliable, and fun. However, it may not remain exactly like this for much longer.
Before we dive into the reason why you should buy a current generation MX5, we shall first cover the history of the Miata. Back in the 1980s, Mazda had a mission. That mission was to create a sports car that offered similar driving characteristics to British models of the time but infused Japanese build quality and reliability.
The way Mazda did this is relatively simple. They took an engine from a normal Mazda hatchback and dropped it into a much lighter and stiffer soft-top roadster body. This meant that upon release, the MX5 already had reliable and proven underpinnings; the only thing left for it was the driving experience.
Specifications
Feature
2022 Mazda MX5 2.0L SKYACTIV-G I4
Engine Power
181 hp & 151 lb-ft of torque
0-60 Time
5.7 seconds
Top Speed
135 mph
Drive Type
Rear-Wheel Drive
Transmission
6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic
Now, to be completely honest, the driving experience of an MX5 is often over-exaggerated. The car is certainly fun; however, in stock form, the vehicle has body roll, it isn’t all that quick, and models without a rear limited-slip differential can be unpredictable through corners. That being said, for the price, there aren’t many cars that come close to the open-top, sporty feeling the Miata provides and, most of the issues mentioned above, can be easily fixed with aftermarket upgrades.
The Current Generation Miata Offers More Than Ever
Mazda
The first two generations of the MX5 remained small and agile. In fact, underneath, they were pretty much the same car. However, when the third generation came around fans were a bit disappointed as the car grew both in size and weight. The good thing, however, is that Mazda realized the mistake made and for the current fourth-generation Miata opted to go for once again a small and agile vehicle. This brought the car back to its original dimensions.
So, the MX5 still drives brilliantly, but it also offers a good interior. Modern conveniences like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also available, and AC controls remain on normal physical buttons akin to touch screens on so many modern cars. More premium models also get a Bose sound system, Napa leather, a reverse camera, and a limited-slip rear differential.
The engine under the hood is a 2.0-liter Skyactive unit that pumps out 181 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque. The sprint from 0-60 mph happens in 6.8 seconds. Now, if you take into account that we now have 300 horsepower hot hatchbacks, the Mazda’s numbers seem low. But the MX5 isn’t about all-out speed; it is about the enjoyment of driving, and it should remain that way forever.
Japanese automakers like to keep models around for a long time. The current generation MX5 has been out for seven years now and it is nearing the end of its life cycle. You might be thinking that that is actually a good thing. If the car is nearing the end of its life it means we will be getting a newer and better model. Well, maybe, but that isn’t always the case. Automakers are in a bit of a weird spot right now. Governments demand that vehicle emissions be lowered; therefore, automotive brands are trying to find ways to adhere to those rules.
Since many have opted to go electric, other brands seem to follow in an attempt to ensure that they don’t fall behind in terms of technological advancement in the electric car field. This means that more and more new models are going electric without any sure indication that the future is actually electric (there are other alternatives such as hydrogen as well).
This Presents Challenges for the Next Generation Miata
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When cars of this size get larger and heavier, the effects on weight can many times have an effect on the driving experience. However, the most important bit of all is the drivetrain. Full electrification isn’t in the making yet. We just don’t have batteries that are small and light enough to be used in a vehicle like the MX5. Normal batteries in a sports car the size of the MX5 will lead to a small vehicle that is heavy and not so impressive driving range numbers. This would completely kill the appeal of the Miata.
While a hybrid isn’t the end of the world, but it will certainly dilute the purity of the MX5. The car will probably be heavier and maybe larger as it will need to accommodate a battery and an electric motor. The new generation Miata is expected to be released in 2025, so if you want the purest and most enjoyable driving experience possible, head out and buy the current generation Miata. There is a high possibility that this is the last pure and fully mechanical MX5.
The 2024 Porsche 911 S/T starts at $291,650 and is the lightest member of the 911 family. It is considered a potential future collectible. However, not many people can afford a car that costs almost $375,000 with all options. And even for those who can afford it, they won’t have full ownership of the car for the first 12 months. Let’s explain what this means.
Frank Moser, the head of the 911 and 718 model lines at Porsche, explained the situation. He said, “When we announced the 911 S/T to mark 60 years of the 911, we received an overwhelming amount of interest in the car. In fact, the demand far exceeded the number of cars allocated to the US.” Moser further added, “Our goal is to ensure that true enthusiasts have the opportunity to own and enjoy these cars for years to come. To achieve this, we have decided that those who are allocated a 911 S/T in the US will be required to adhere to a minimum retention period of one year. This means that initially, the cars in the US will be leased for this period before the ownership is transferred.”
Gone are the days when cheap cars were once merely moving boxes on wheels. Technological advances mean that automakers today can include features in cheap cars previously found in expensive models. For less than $25,000, you can buy a well-equipped, spacious, and sporty car. Cheap cars are also incredibly economical, making them ideal for daily use.
The trade-off for all the advantages of owning a cheap car is the lack of luxury and performance. Most budget cars are known to have low-grade, plasticky interiors, but things have come a long way and even budget-friendly options do have some strengths. Also, the engines fitted to most cheap cars aren’t renowned for their potency. Regardless, the pros outweigh the cons and here are 10 cheap new cars that are worth buying.
We collected data from automakers, government websites like fueleconomy.gov, and specialized sites like Edmunds and Car and Driver to compile a list of affordable new cars worth buying.
Nissan redesigned the Versa for the 2023 model, perhaps trying to boost the car’s dwindling sales. All models got a revised front fascia, and the SR trim received a new wheel design. Nissan also increased the number of standard features available with each model. The top-of-the-range SR is the one to get as it has the most standard features, including LED headlights and remote start.
Specifications
Engine
1.6-liter inline-four
Engine output
122 horsepower and 114 pound-feet
Transmission
Five-speed manual
Drivetrain
FWD
0-60 MPH
9.5 seconds
Top Speed
115 MPH
The SR and the SV, the middle model, come with an automatic transmission. The cheapest and least-equipped base S is also one of the cheapest new cars on sale today and it features a five-speed manual transmission. The Versa isn’t a performance car, so the stick shift offers little over the automatic. Still, for drivers still loyal to the stick shift, the S is the ideal choice. Nissan provides an S Plus package for customers of the manual S, which adds Android Auto and Apple Carplay and a 60/40 split-folding rear seat.
22023 Kia Rio
Starting MSRP: $16,750
KIA
It’s a shame that Kia is pulling the plug on the impressive Kia Rio. The Rio offers fabulous value for money, with its three trims – LX Sedan, S Sedan, and S Hatchback – costing under $20,000. The S variant is the obvious choice, given the number of standard options you get by forking out several hundred dollars more. S model customers get a rear USB outlet, keyless entry, and a center armrest, among others.
Specifications
Engine
1.6-liter inline-four
Engine output
120 horsepower and 112 pound-feet
Transmission
Continuously variable-speed automatic
Drivetrain
FWD
0-60 MPH
8.6 seconds
Top Speed
108 MPH
The hatchback seems more logical than the sedan as it offers more passenger and cargo space. The Rio’s performance is unspectacular but on par with most subcompact crossovers. A plus point for the Rio is the car’s expertly-tuned suspension.
32023 Kia Forte
Starting MSRP: $19,690
KIA
Kia’s redesign of the Forte in 2022 – a new grille, new wheel designs, revised bumpers, revised exterior lighting elements – turned it into a looker. The Korean manufacturer also added several standard features, including a lane-following assist system. However, Kia did nothing to improve the car’s lethargic 2.0-liter engine, which comes with the FE, LXS, and GT-Line variants.
Specifications
Engine
Turbocharged 1.6-liter inline-four
Engine output
201 horsepower and 195 pound-feet
Transmission
Seven-speed dual-clutch
Drivetrain
FWD
0-60 MPH
6.7 seconds
Top Speed
132 MPH
The GT, which comes with a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine, is the most attractive option. It comes with a host of standard features, including sports seats and a power unit, which vastly improve the Forte’s performance. Unfortunately, the $700 six-speed manual available with the GT, pushes the car’s price beyond $25,000.
Don’t expect a stirring performance with the Nissan Sentra. However, prepare to step into a car with a posh and tech-loaded interior. The car’s 2.0-liter 149 horsepower engine is unremarkable: it powers the Sentra to 60 MPH in a gingerly 8.8 seconds. Expect labored and clunky overtakes on the freeway.
Specifications
Engine
2.0-liter Inline-four
Engine output
149 horsepower and 146 pound-feet
Transmission
Continuously variable-speed automatic
Drivetrain
FWD
0-60 MPH
8.8 seconds
Top Speed
124 MPH
Inside, the Nissan looks more expensive than it is. Occupants ride on comfy Zero Gravity seats, and the top model comes with quilted leather upholstery. The mid-tier model, dubbed the SV, offers the best value for money. It has more standard equipment than the base S model, and by purchasing the SV Premium package, you get leather upholstery, a sunroof, heated front seats, and 17-inch aluminum wheels.
52023 Volkswagen Jetta
Starting MSRP: $20,655
Volkswagen
The Volkswagen Jetta’s excellent handling masks the underwhelming nature of its turbocharged 158-horsepower engine. The Jetta’s base models, the S and Sport, are spacious and well-equipped. For instance, you get a wealth of safety features, heated exterior mirrors, cloth upholstery, rain-sensing wipers, and a six-speed manual on the base S (an eight-speed automatic is available for a price).
Specifications
Engine
Turbocharged 1.5-liter inline-four
Engine output
158 horsepower and 184 pound-feet
Transmission
Six-speed manual
Drivetrain
FWD
0-60 MPH
6.5 seconds
Top Speed
127 MPH
The Jetta offers plenty of passenger and cargo space but very little in terms of standard driver assists. Barring automatic braking and blind-spot warning, most driver aids are optional. Upgrading to the Sport trim gets you a sportier exterior, an electronically locking front differential, and 17-inch alloy wheels.
62023 Hyundai Elantra
Starting MSRP: $20,950
Hyundai
The affordable Hyundai Elantra models are the SEL and the SE. They come with unspectacular 2.0-cylinder engines putting out 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet. The SE model is the cheapest but lacks features you would get as standard by purchasing the SEL. For instance, the SEL comes with SiriusXM and a hands-free trunk release.
Specifications
Engine
2.0-liter inline-four
Engine output
147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet
Transmission
Continuously variable automatic
Drivetrain
FWD
0-60 MPH
8.4 seconds
Top Speed
140 MPH
The SEL also offers access to the stacked SEL Convenience Package. It adds a 10.3-inch infotainment system, a similarly-sized digital cluster, a wireless charging pad, heated mirrors, heated front seats, and many more features. The base Elantras aren’t as fuel-efficient as the expensive hybrid models but are still very economical.
72024 Toyota Corolla LE Sedan
Starting MSRP: $21,900
Toyota
The LE Sedan, the base Corolla variant, is the cheapest gas-powered Corolla you can buy. Don’t let the car’s sporty looks or the sporting pedigree of the pricier Corollas fool you into thinking that the LE trim is fast. Under the hood lies a 2.0-liter 169-horsepower engine that rolls the LE to 60 MPH in 8.2 seconds.
Specifications
Engine
2.0-liter inline-four
Engine output
169 horsepower and 151 pound-feet
Transmission
Continuously variable automatic
Drivetrain
FWD
0-60 MPH
8.2 seconds
Top Speed
118 MPH
The allure of the Corolla Sedan over other models on this list is Toyota’s bulletproof reliability and dependability and the car’s practical nature. Getting used to the low-grade interior might take a while, but as you do, the Toyota compact sedan’s incredible fuel economy will bring you some joy. You get 35 MPG combined: 32 MPG in cities and 41 MPG on highways.
The Impreza sedan is no more, as all variants of the sixth-gen Subaru Impreza are hatchbacks. The Base variant is the cheapest and, predictably, the least equipped. While the mid-tier Sport and top-tier RS models get an 11.6-inch infotainment display with Subaru’s Starlink multimedia system, the Base variant gets a 7.0-inch screen without the Starlink system.
Specifications
Engine
2.0-liter flat-four
Engine output
152 horsepower and 145 pound-feet
Transmission
Continuously variable automatic
Drivetrain
AWD
0-60 MPH
8.9 seconds
Top Speed
127 MPH
The Base Impreza features a 2.0-liter flat-four engine, churning out 152 horsepower and 145 pound-feet. It channels power through a standard CVT transmission to all wheels. The car’s performance leaves plenty to be desired. However, Subaru has improved the car’s front-seat design and reduced cabin noise. The new Impreza also features a bigger fuel tank than the outgoing model.
92023 Honda Civic
Starting MSRP: $23,950
Honda
Honda redesigned the Civic in 2022, giving the car a more civilized demeanor. Then Japanese manufacturer, however, carried over the engines from the previous generation, including the 2.0-liter inline-four that powers the Honda Civic LX. The LX is the base Honda Civic and only comes as a sedan. Higher trims are available as hatchbacks.
Specifications
Engine
2.0-liter inline-four
Engine output
158 horsepower and 138 pound-feet
Transmission
Continuously variable automatic
Drivetrain
FWD
0-60 MPH
9.2 seconds
Top Speed
137 MPH
Honda scrapped the manual transmission with the new Civic, making the CVT transmission standard across all models. Though not as engaging as the manual, the CVT delivers power smoothly and responds sharply to right-foot inputs. Despite having a slightly underpowered engine, the Civic LX has genuine sporting credentials.
Perhaps unfairly, most of the Mazda 3 goodies go to the turbocharged variants. The affordable Base and Select Sport variants get little in terms of standard options. The upside, however, is that the Mazda 3 is a delight to drive, regardless of the trim. Base and Select Sport options feature a 2.5-liter inline-four engine. Mazda offers a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic with the Mazda 3.
Specifications
Engine
2.5-liter inline-four
Engine output
191 horsepower and 186 pound-feet
Transmission
Six-speed manual
Drivetrain
FWD
0-60 MPH
8.2 seconds
Top Speed
130 MPH
If you opt for all-wheel drive, you must have the six-speed automatic. The six-speed manual is only available on front-wheel drive models. The Mazda 3 offers decent fuel economy and a comfortable ride, but the car’s poor rear visibility can complicate driving.
School bus conversions have become popular in the tiny home/vanlife community due to their affordability and size, which is comparable to a studio apartment. These buses provide a blank canvas for creative individuals to design unique living spaces. One exceptional example is this bus conversion that combines elements of Mad Max and Star Wars, resulting in a truly one-of-a-kind vehicle.
Gordon, the owner of this remarkable bus, acquired it from a school district auction for just over two thousand dollars. Initially, he didn’t have a concrete plan for the bus conversion but had a few ideas for ensuring its versatility and practicality. While Gordon doesn’t live in the bus full-time, he utilizes it for his business and works out of it.
The BMW M3 CS is a high-performance sedan that comes with a hefty price tag of $118,700. However, it is worth noting that this vehicle is both fast and exclusive, with less than 2,000 units being produced. To showcase its capabilities, BMW recently took the M3 CS for a spin around the iconic Nurburgring track and captured an onboard video of its fastest lap.
During the lap on the 14.2-mile Nordschleife section of the circuit, the M3 CS completed the course in 7 minutes and 28.76 seconds. Considering the car’s weight of around 3,891 pounds, this is an impressive feat. It also means that the M3 CS is faster on the Nurburgring than other vehicles like the Alfa Romeo Giulia QV and even the M5 Competition. In a previous run, the M5 Competition achieved a lap time of 7 minutes and 29.57 seconds.
Kia has made the decision to discontinue the affordable Kia Rio in the United States. This announcement comes after Hyundai also decided to remove the Accent from its lineup after the 2022 model year. Kia confirmed the discontinuation of the subcompact model in a statement to Automotive News, stating that there are no plans to sell the vehicle after the 2023 model year.
It’s no surprise that sedans like the Kia Rio are being phased out as customers increasingly prefer crossovers and SUVs. However, it’s worth noting that the larger Kia Forte will still be available. In recent years, Kia has simplified its sedan offerings in the US by discontinuing the Cadenza and the K900 after the 2020 model year. Additionally, the sporty Stinger, which is a five-door liftback, is being discontinued globally, with the Tribute Edition serving as the final model.
Love ‘em or hate ‘em, body kits can serve as a relatively cheap way to totally transform the look of a car — for better or worse. While some panels can be replaced with kit that makes them look just a bit more aggressive, imposing, or even more luxe, the more adventurous, with a little bit of handywork, can go all out to create something totally new. The latter is the case for a 1984 Corvette now up for sale on Cars and Bids.
The C4 Corvette is an icon of the 1980s, but this custom model sports a styling that seemingly pays homage to another icon of the era, the Ferrari Testarossa. So, let’s throw on some New Wave music, an oversize turtleneck and learn more about this amalgam of two of the most recognizable sports cars of the ‘80s.
The Corvette in question is a 1984 model, the first of the C4 generation powered by a 5.7-liter V-8 in its coupe guise (a convertible was also available). But its looks are anything but traditional of the C4 generation. This 1984 ‘Vette sports a unique, and we’re guessing bespoke, body kit from American Custom Industries, according to the listing. Up front, the Vette’s nose has grown significantly in length with an attention-grabbing front fascia.
The C4’s square fog lights are now deeply recessed into the front clip, and they are flanked by sharply styled inlets ahead of the front wheels. Instead of the Corvette’s standard, more squared-off nose, the body kit sports a curved bumper that slopes down from the standard nose. Adjacent to the front plate holder are narrow, horizontal inlets. Squint hard, and the nose is almost reminiscent of the Bugatti EB 110. Okay, you might have to squint really hard, but there may be some inspiration there.
Though the front clip of the 1984 Corvette doesn’t invoke “Ferrari,” its side strakes certainly “scream” Testarossa. The inlets aren’t nearly as dramatic as the Testarossa as they remain only on the lower portion of the Vette’s doors. However, they are not only prominent for their styling. The side strakes are applied to a wide rocker panel kit that widens the Vette overall.
Cars and Bids
A front 3/4 shot of a 1984 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe with American Custom Industries body kit
The strakes may dominate the attention of the custom Corvette’s profile, but look further and you’ll also notice custom wing mirrors that form a triangular shape from the A-pillar to below the Vette’s beltline. Unlike the original Testarossa, however, this Corvette features wing mirrors on both sides of the coupe.
The Testarossa-inspired styling continues behind the cabin in which the Corvette’s traditional wrap-around rear windscreen has been replaced by a custom unit. The smaller rear glass is flanked by quasi roll hoops to give it more of a Testarossa feel, and there’s even a bump on the piece of body kit that indicates the engine is at the rear, like it would be in the Ferrari from which it apparently takes its styling inspiration.
Behind the updated rear glass is a larger spoiler that curves downward and hangs over the decklid. This is one area in which the body kit apparently carves its own path as neither the Testarossa or ’84 Corvette were fitted with a rear spoiler. Below the traditional quad, circular taillights, the effective widebody kit continues with a squared-off rear fascia and flowing rear inlets that mimic the styling of the front units.
As with any body kit, the custom styling of this body kit is sure to attract plenty of people in both the “love it” and “hate it” camps. But unlike other cars wearing such kit, this C4 takes things step further in combining two styling icons of their generation into one amalgamation.
Surprisingly enough given the detail to the outside, the rest of this 1984 Corvette coupe is surprisingly stock. The only other modifications listed are a muffler delete and the addition of a Sony stereo head unit.
Otherwise, it sports:
17-inch wheels
Leather upholstery
Power-adjustable driver seats,
Power windows,
Power door locks
Power mirrors
Air conditioning
The Vette’s quintessential pop-up headlights also remain
Ultimately, this model is about as symbolic of memorable 1984 automotive styling as it gets. While not all may be sold on this custom Corvette’s looks, it’s not every day you come across a car that marked the beginning of a new venture for the Corvette nameplate while paying homage to another icon that made its debut the same year. And we’re pretty sure any model that combined pop-up headlights with “cheese grater” side strakes is going to rank as “cool” for many.
The standard 1984 Corvette may not be as distinctly styled as the Testarossa, but its looks and performance are certainly memorable. The first year of the C4 generation Corvette saw the American sports car crank out 205 horsepower and 290 pound-feet of torque from its 5.7-liter V8. That power was sent through the rear wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission, at least in this case as an overdrive manual transmission was also available.
Performance
0-60
6.8 seconds
Top Speed
140 MPH
Curb Weight
3,300 lbs.
Horsepower
205 HP
Torque
290 LB-FT
Layout
RWD
When it hit the road, the 1984 Corvette was among the fastest production cars in the world of the time. It delivered a top speed of 140 mph, could roar from 0-60 mph in under seven seconds (remember, this is the mid-1980s in which that was a hugely impressive time), and could complete a quarter-mile run in 15.2 seconds at 90 mph. Compared to its C3 predecessor, the C4 was larger overall and thus more practical, though that didn’t equate to a loss in performance.
Shot of the Ferrari Testarossa at the Councors D’Elegance in Plymouth, Michigan.
If you are going to try and turn a burly, V8-powered American sports car into a European exotic — at least in looks — there’s few better options than the Ferrari Testarossa, which made its debut the same year as the C4. The name Testarossa came from Ferrari painting its camshaft covers red with “testa rossa” translating to red head.
The Testarossa features a screaming 4.9-liter flat V-12 that cranked out 385 horsepower and 361 pound-feet of torque, eye-popping stats for its day. A 0-60 mph run could be handled in just 5.8 seconds. The Testarossa was not only notable for its styling, particularly its “cheese graters” side strakes, it was also a star on the popular Miami Vice TV series, which helped solidify its iconic status.
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