Tag Archives: dwindling

Motorsport

Nissan Altima and Versa Expected to be Discontinued by 2025

According to a report by Automotive News, two more sedans could be on the chopping block. The Nissan Versa and its larger counterpart, the Altima, are projected to be phased out by 2025. While the source of this information remains unknown, the report also mentions the introduction of a new electric sedan in 2026, with no further details provided.

When approached for comment, Nissan declined to confirm or deny the rumors, stating that they have no official statement regarding the matter at this time. This suggests that, in the case of the Altima in particular, there are ongoing plans for the immediate future.


Motorsport

Watch And Listen As A 33-Year Old Audi 200 I5 Turbo Dominates the Autobahn

In 1990, Audi was facing declining sales and an outdated product line. An unfounded sudden acceleration scandal had damaged the brand’s reputation, resulting in a 50% drop in US sales since 1985. Audi was on the verge of withdrawing from the North American market, similar to Alfa Romeo and Peugeot. However, they decided to focus on their strengths.

Unlike Alfa Romeo and Peugeot, Audi had two advantages: its turbocharged inline-five-cylinder engine and Quattro all-wheel drive system. These technologies were introduced in the 1980s with the original Ur Quattro and the Sport Quattro S1, a powerful rally car. By incorporating the turbo five-cylinder and Quattro AWD into the mild-mannered 200 model, Audi began to regain its prominence.

In its stock form, the 1990 Audi 200 Quattro produced 217 horsepower and 228 pound-feet of torque from its turbocharged inline-five engine. However, the owner of the metallic brown sedan featured in this video claims that it has been modified to produce 480 horsepower. They describe the car as a “grandpa on steroids” as it takes to the autobahn for a top-speed run.

The distinct growl of the five-cylinder engine fills the air as it idles. Unlike the smoothness of an inline-six engine, the five-cylinder emits a rougher, bear-like sound, conveying both anger and eagerness to accelerate. The car wastes no time in reaching high speeds on the autobahn.

At 5,000 rpm and 180 kph (approximately 112 mph), the Audi 200 maintains a steady course in the left lane. The resonance of the inline-five is reminiscent of Lamborghini Huracan and Audi R8, both equipped with V10 engines that share the uneven pulses of the five-cylinder. As the turbo boost kicks in, the car gains momentum and races towards its 7,000 rpm redline, leaving caution behind.

During the video, the Audi 200 reaches a top speed of 240 kph (approximately 150 mph) before the driver encounters traffic and exercises self-preservation. For comparison, a new Audi S6, considered the modern equivalent of the 200, has a claimed top speed of 155 mph. However, while the Audi S6 may offer a safer and more comfortable driving experience, it lacks the raw excitement provided by the modified Audi 200 as it conquers the autobahn.