The 2024 Nissan Altima is now available for purchase, and it comes with a $100 price increase compared to the previous model. The base model of the front-wheel-drive Altima now starts at $26,825 (price includes $1,095 destination charge). This $100 price increase applies to all models in the lineup.
Although the price has gone up, there is no additional standard equipment included. However, the 2024 Altima does come with an extended free trial of NissanConnect Services, which has been increased from six months to three years. With this service, you can utilize the MyNissan smartphone app to remotely lock/unlock your vehicle, start/stop the engine remotely, and more.
Carbon fiber is often seen as a high-end and expensive material known for its strength, lightness, and durability. It is commonly used in industries like aerospace and automotive. Many people assume that manufacturing carbon fiber components is a complex and challenging process. However, a recent DIY video on the Eco-Lap Studio YouTube channel proves that you can actually create your own carbon fiber parts at home, using a simple kitchen oven and a few basic ingredients.
In the video, the creator of the channel demonstrates the process by making an engine cover for their personal BMW. What’s interesting is that they use dry carbon fiber, which is different from the type of carbon fiber typically used by luxury car manufacturers like McLaren or Ferrari. Dry carbon fiber is specifically designed for dry layup applications, meaning it doesn’t require any additional resin. As a result, the final product is lighter and more manageable for smaller projects.
Gemballa is known for creating outrageously powerful and expensive upgrade kits for supercars. One of its most famous creations is the Porsche Carrera GT-based Mirage GT.
The Carrera GT, Porsche’s halo car in the 2000s, was beloved by car enthusiasts worldwide. It was equipped with a naturally-aspirated 5.7-liter V10 engine that produced 603 horsepower and 435 pound-feet (590 Newton-meters) of torque.
Unlike many supercars of its time, the Carrera GT featured a special six-speed manual transmission, sending power to the rear wheels through a twin-plate ceramic dry-clutch.
With only 1,270 units ever made, the Carrera GT is already a rare commodity. However, some people desire something even more special. That’s where the Gemballa Mirage GT comes in.
The Gemballa Mirage GT is a modified version of the Carrera GT with a widebody kit, a straight-piped exhaust system, an engine tune that boosts power to 661 hp and torque to 465 lb-ft (630 Nm), and a carbon fiber interior makeover. It’s an attention-grabbing supercar with unique customization.
According to Gemballa’s website, only 25 Carrera GTs were converted to Mirage GTs. The blue Mirage GT featured in the video is exceptionally unique because it retains the original Porsche steering wheel, albeit covered in different leather. The other 24 units have a Gemballa-designed steering wheel.
This particular Mirage GT, finished in Gentian Blue Metallic with a Cuoio Leather interior, belongs to the private Lee collection, based in Perth, Western Australia. The car was sent to London and delivered directly to the tarmac of London Stansted airport, where it awaited the arrival of a private jet.
The Gemballa Mirage GT and an Aston Martin V12 Speedster were then driven back to London, causing a spectacle in the capital city. Check out the embedded video to see the stunning German supercar in action.
A new tool has been developed to combat the growing problem of online car sales scams by helping buyers identify suspiciously low-priced adverts. Brego Advert Check is a free online tool that allows users to compare the advertised price of a used vehicle with its estimated dealer price and auction value. If the price seems too good to be true, buyers are advised to exercise caution and visit the dealer in person before proceeding with the purchase. The tool was created in response to a rising number of scams where buyers are tricked into paying a deposit or full payment for a non-existent car that has been intentionally underpriced. These fraudulent sellers are typically unwilling to accept credit card payments, leaving buyers empty-handed.
The co-founder of Brego, Simon Hunt, was motivated to develop the tool after seeing numerous reports of people falling victim to these scams. Hunt noted that the sophistication of the fraudsters indicated that their tactics were proving successful, and he felt compelled to take action. The Advert Check tool was designed within a few days, allowing buyers to input the registration number, mileage, and price of the vehicle they are interested in. They can also provide the website address of the seller, although this is optional. By comparing the selling price to Brego’s dealer price and auction value data, the tool determines the extent of the price discrepancy and informs the buyer accordingly.
Ah, the world of expensive sports cars, where speed, luxury, and prestige blend seamlessly to create automotive masterpieces. In this realm, the price tags are as breathtaking as the performance they deliver. But who says you need a massive bank balance to experience the exhilaration of a mid-engined marvel?
In this article, we’ll be exploring some lesser-known options that have proven their worth in the world of car aficionados. From unsung heroes to classics, these budget-friendly mid-engine cars deliver a fantastic driving experience.
So, if you’re on the hunt for an affordable ride that packs a punch and offers true driving joy, look no further. Let’s dive in and discover the world of mid-engined pocket rockets that won’t empty your wallet and will keep your heart racing on the road!
Front and side shot of a red Honda Beat parked in a parking lot
The Honda Beat, often referred to as the “Baby Honda S2000,” holds a special place in automotive history as a rear-wheel-drive, mid-engined two-seat roadster kei car. What makes it even more remarkable is that it was the last car personally approved by Soichiro Honda before he passed away in 1991.
This charming and compact roadster exudes a sporty and fun vibe, with its low and sleek profile that hugs the road like a precision driver. The design, originally crafted by Pininfarina, captivates with its simplicity yet eye-catching appeal, adorned with smooth curves that add an aerodynamic touch.
Performance
Engine
656 cc Inline-3
Power
64 horsepower
Torque
46 pound feet
Weight
1,800 lbs
Under its petite hood lies a peppy 656cc three-cylinder engine, which might seem small, even smaller than some motorcycles. However, don’t be fooled by its size, as this tiny beast can rev up to high heavens, emitting a surprisingly satisfying growl as it zips down the road. It may not be the fastest car around, but driving the Honda Beat is undeniably a thrilling and joyful experience.
9Pontiac Fiero
Average price: $12,000
Mecum
Front and side view of a 1988 Pontiac Fiero GT
n the late 1970s, the United States found itself grappling with its first significant gas crisis, seeking solutions to improve fuel efficiency and meet the country’s fuel economy requirements. It was during the dawn of the 1980s that Pontiac, embarked on an ambitious mission: to create a revolutionary automobile that would combine the thrill of a sports car with the practicality of a compact commuter. The result of their vision was the Pontiac Fiero.
Derived from the Italian words meaning “proud” or “wild,” the Fiero truly embodied its name. Designed by George Milidrag and Hulki Aldikacti, this remarkable vehicle was conceived as an economical commuter car with aspirations of modest performance.
The Fiero broke new ground for Pontiac in multiple ways. It marked their return to producing a two-seater since the era of coupes from 1926 to 1938, and more notably, it became the first rear mid-engine car ever mass-produced by any American manufacturer, a true milestone in automotive history.
Performance
Engine
2.8-liter V-6
Power
140 horsepower
Torque
170 pound feet
Weight
2,800 lbs
In order to meet the strict Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards in the United States, the Fiero was made available with both 4-cylinder and 6-cylinder engines, effectively finding a middle ground between performance and fuel efficiency.
A standout feature of the Fiero was its innovative construction. Unlike conventional steel-bodied cars, the Fiero utilized composite panels composed of plastic reinforced with fiberglass. This lightweight material not only contributed to the car’s unique selling proposition but also aimed to enhance fuel-efficiency, aligning perfectly with the nation’s newfound energy-conscious approach.
The Fiero 2M4, equipped with a four-cylinder engine, garnered widespread recognition, earning a spot onCar and Driver magazine’s esteemed 10 Best list for 1984. Additionally, the same year, it was proudly designated as the Official Pace Car for the prestigious Indianapolis 500, further solidifying its status as an outstanding and celebrated automobile.
Front and side shot of a gray Mazda Autozam AZ-1 parked in a parking lot
A lot like the Honda Beat the Mazda Autozam AZ-1, was a mid-engined kei-class sports car. It was created and engineered by Mazda as part of their Autozam brand, and it showcases a distinctive array of features.
Powering this compact sports car is a Suzuki-sourced 657 cc turbocharged engine, the same one used in the Suzuki Alto, capable of producing 63 horsepower. Interestingly, Suzuki later released its own version, the Suzuki Cara, under its badge-engineered lineup.
Performance
Engine
656 cc Turbocharged Inline-3
Power
64 horsepower
Torque
63 pound feet
Weight
1,600 lbs
One of the most eye-catching aspects of the Autozam AZ-1 is its gull-wing doors, which are particularly uncommon for a car of its size and class. These distinctive doors not only contribute to the car’s aesthetic appeal but also serve a practical purpose, making parking in tight spots much more manageable. With its exceptional design and nimble performance, the Mazda Autozam AZ-1 stands as a remarkable representative of the kei-class sports car category.
7Fiat X1/9
Average price: $13,000
Fiat
Front and side shot of a green Fiat X1/9
The Fiat X1/9, introduced in 1972, served as a successor to the rear-engine Fiat 850 Spider. This remarkable vehicle swiftly gained fame as one of the earliest accessible and cheap mid-engine sports cars, offering an affordable option to enthusiasts. Designed by Bertone and manufactured by Fiat, this two-seater mid-engined sports car was praised for its remarkable features. Fitted with a transverse engine and gearbox, the car adopted a mid-mounted, rear-wheel drive setup and offered exceptionally balanced handling.
The Fiat X1/9’s appearance was undeniably eye-catching. Drawing inspiration from contemporary power-boat design, the Runabout variant featured a distinctive wedge shape that captured attention wherever it went. The credit for its wedge-like styling goes to the renowned Lamborghini Miura designer Marcello Gandini at Bertone.
Performance
Engine
1.3 liter Inline-4
Power
85 horsepower
Torque
80pound feet
Weight
2,400 lbs
By 1974, the X1/9 reached the shores of the United States, showcasing improved adaptations of the Fiat 128’s MacPherson strut suspension and housing a 67-horsepower 1.3-liter inline four-cylinder engine, skillfully crafted under the supervision of Aurelio Lampredi.
The Fiat X1/9 struck the perfect balance in terms of size, making it compact enough to fit into tight parking spaces, yet nimble enough to navigate corners with the grace of a Fiat-fueled ballet dancer. Notably, it was the first Fiat designed from the ground up to comply with the stringent US safety regulations, which emphasized its commitment to safety.
6Honda S660
Average price: $15,000
Honda
Front and side shot of a white Honda S660
The Honda S660 is a delightful lightweight mid-engined roadster, boasting a targa roof and dimensions that closely align with the 1990s Beat, owing to kei car size restrictions. As the successor to both the iconic Honda Beat and the renowned Honda S2000, it embraces a transverse mid-engine layout and rear-wheel-drive configuration.
Performance
Engine
656 cc Turbocharged Inline-3
Power
64 horsepower
Torque
78 pound feet
Weight
1,940 lbs
Under its compact hood, the S660 houses the turbocharged 658 cc S07A engine, the same motor utilized in the popular N-Box kei car. With some mechanical enhancements, this engine generates a modest yet satisfying 63 horsepower. While it may lack the sheer power of larger engines, it perfectly complements the S660’s lightweight construction, making it agile and nimble on the roads.
But what truly sets the S660 apart is the unparalleled driving experience it offers. Its main appeal lies in the pure joy of driving, inviting enthusiasts to forge a deep connection between the car and the road.
A front 3/4 outdoor shot of a 2003 Toyota MR2 Spyder
Toyota’s MR2 is a famous series of two-seat, mid-engined, rear-wheel-drive sports cars produced in Japan and distributed worldwide by Toyota over three generations. Its origins trace back to a 1976 Toyota design project with a clear objective: to create a car that would deliver an enjoyable driving experience while still maintaining good fuel economy.
Throughout its evolution, the MR2 consistently embodied the concept of a “Midship Runabout-Sports” (MRS), with its engine positioned midship for optimal weight distribution and handling prowess. The third-generation MR2, also known as the Toyota MR-S in Japan and the Toyota MR2 Spyder in the US, was an embodiment of this philosophy.
Performance
Engine
1.8 liter Inline-4
Power
140 horsepower
Torque
127 pound feet
Weight
2,300 lbs
Under the hood of the MR2 MR-S, there lay a 138 horsepower all-aluminum alloy 1.8-liter inline-four engine, providing a perfect balance of power and efficiency. Complemented by a finely-tuned suspension and a precise rack-and-pinion steering system, the MR2 offered a nimble and agile ride that turned driving into an exhilarating experience, especially when navigating winding roads and carving through corners.
While the MR2’s sporty nature delighted many enthusiasts, it also managed to surprise with its practicality. Despite being a two-seater sports car, the MR2 featured a reasonably spacious front trunk, affectionately known as the “frunk,” enabling drivers to carry some luggage or essentials along for the journey.
4Lotus Europa S 2nd Gen
Average price: $24,000
Lotus
Front and side shot of a white Lotus Europa S – 2nd Gen parked
Step inside the cabin, and you’ll be greeted by a tasteful blend of luxury and simplicity. The cozy leather seats wrap around you snugly, fostering a sense of intimacy with the car’s performance-focused design. The cockpit layout is purposeful, placing essential controls within easy reach, ensuring the driving experience remains the central focus.
Though the interior exudes elegance, it’s essential to note that practicality takes a backseat in the Lotus Europa S. This sports car is not designed for carrying large loads or accommodating passengers with ample legroom. Instead, it’s all about the sheer pleasure of driving.
Performance
Engine
2.0 liter Turbocharged Inline-4
Power
222 horsepower
Torque
221 pound feet
Weight
2,500 lbs
The true brilliance of the Lotus Europa S shines through its exceptional handling. With its lightweight chassis and responsive steering, the car becomes a precision instrument, allowing you to slice through corners with unparalleled agility. Each turn becomes a thrilling and engaging experience, leaving drivers exhilarated and craving for more.
3Ferrari Mondial
Average price: $35,000
Via Flicker
Front and side shot of a gray Ferrari Mondial parked
The Mondial is quite a unique car. It’s a 2+2 grand tourer, which means it can seat four people, but let’s be honest, those rear seats are probably best suited for adventurous toddlers or fashionable handbags. Nonetheless, it’s a prancing horse with some family-friendly perks.
Performance
Engine
3.2 liter V-8
Power
270 horsepower
Torque
231 pound feet
Weight
3,600 lbs
At the heart of this automotive legend lies a potent 3.2-liter V-8 engine, strategically positioned behind the seats. This setup not only delivers thrilling and recognizable Ferrari exhaust notes but also ensures impressive performance and acceleration, making every drive a captivating experience.
True, the Ferrari Mondial might not be everyone’s preference, but for those who have fallen in love with its quirky characteristics and undeniable charisma, it has cemented itself as a timeless classic. With a permanent spot in the pantheon of automotive greatness, the Mondial continues to evoke passion and admiration from aficionados worldwide.
2Porsche 914
Average price: $40,000
luizsantanna / Shutterstock.com
1974 Porsche 914 parked in a studio
The Porsche 914, also known as the VW-Porsche 914, is a mid-engined sports car that resulted from a collaborative effort between Volkswagen and Porsche. It was designed, manufactured, and marketed jointly by both companies. The project originated from different motives: Porsche aimed to create a more affordable and distinct model to replace its 912, while Volkswagen sought to produce a halo car that would stand out from its typical lineup of the Beetle, Bus, and Fastback.
Drawing inspiration from the Porsche 911’s front suspension, the 914 incorporated some components from Volkswagen as well. Inside the car, the interior was also a clever combination of parts from both companies’ inventory, creating a unique and cohesive design.
Performance
Engine
2.0 liters Flat-Six (Boxer engine)
Power
95 horsepower
Torque
118 pound feet
Weight
2,160 lbs
One of the remarkable features of the Porsche 914 was its diverse engine options. Instead of a conventional Porsche engine, the car offered a range of choices akin to a buffet of horsepower delights. Among these options was a flat-four engine borrowed from the VW Type 4, providing a solid performance. For those seeking a more thrilling experience, a beefier flat-six engine, sourced from Porsche’s own 911, was available as an enticing alternative.
Upon its initial release, the car received a somewhat lukewarm response. However, it gained appreciation over time, with MotorTrend being one of the car’s enthusiasts. In fact, the magazine honored the Porsche 914 with its first-ever Import Car of the Year title in 1970. The editors praised its exceptional handling, considering it one of the best-handling machines they had ever driven.
Front 3/4 of Alfa Romeo 4C driving fast through a twist mountain road
In March 2011, Alfa Romeo revealed their impressive 4C concept version at the 81st Geneva Motor Show, wowing attendees and igniting the excitement of automotive enthusiasts worldwide. Designed by the talented team at Centro Stile Alfa Romeo and developed by Alfa Romeo, the 4C Concept received well-deserved recognition. It received the ‘Most Beautiful Concept Car of the Year’ award from the readers of the German magazine Auto Bild and scored the Auto Bild Design Award 2011, confirming its allure and aesthetic appeal.
Performance
Engine
1.75 liter Turbocharged Inline-4
Power
240 horsepower
Torque
258 pound feet
Weight
2,465 lbs
When it was released the Alfa Romeo 4C impressed drivers around the globe with its agile and responsive performance. Thanks to its lightweight carbon fiber monocoque chassis and aluminum subframes, the car felt poised and well-connected to the road, giving drivers a level of precision they truly appreciated.
Peeking under the hood the Alfa Romeo 4C packs a turbocharged 1.75-liter inline-four engine that produces an impressive 240 horsepower. It’s like a shot of espresso for the road – quick, energizing, and exhilarating. The engine propels the 4C from 0 to 60 mph in less than 4.5 seconds. The car’s impressive acceleration and power delivery make it a compelling choice for driving enthusiasts seeking a thrilling drive at a fairly attainable price.
According to analyst Jeff Pu, the upcoming iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max are expected to have a higher price tag compared to their iPhone 14 Pro counterparts. The iPhone 14 Pro was released in 2022 with a starting price of $999 for the 128GB version. However, the iPhone 15 Pro is predicted to start at $1,099, while the iPhone 15 Pro Max could start at $1,199.
The potential price increase is likely due to the inclusion of high-end components such as a new chip, periscope camera sensor, larger battery, titanium chassis, and more. However, Apple has not confirmed these details yet.
Now, let’s talk about the expected release date for the iPhone 15. For the past decade, Apple has typically unveiled its new iPhones in September, so there’s no reason to believe that the iPhone 15 won’t follow the same pattern. Therefore, it is reasonable to expect the iPhone 15 lineup to be released in the early or mid-September of this year.
While it may be a coincidence, it’s worth noting that Apple has often announced new iPhone models like the iPhone X, iPhone 11, iPhone 12, and iPhone 13 series on a Tuesday. Additionally, after the official announcement, it usually takes around ten days for the iPhones to be available for purchase. That’s all the information you need to know about the upcoming iPhone.
At the Goodwood Festival of Speed, the Hyundai RN22e concept, a high-performance electric vehicle (EV) testbed, crashed after missing a turn. The incident occurred during one of the earlier runs on the first day of the event. Luckily, there were no injuries reported from the off-track excursion.
The Hyundai RN22e concept, which features Hyundai’s high-performance EV development, was driven up the hill when the driver failed to take a sharp left turn, crashing into bales of hay. The incident was captured by camera operators, showing the car coming to rest at the bottom of the frame. Fortunately, the occupants of the car, who wore helmets and racing suits, appeared unharmed.
The extent of the damage to the RN22e is not yet known, but there are visible debris on the ground, hinting at some cosmetic damage. Hyundai has been contacted for more information about the condition of the car and its occupants.
The Hyundai RN22e is a high-performance EV concept designed to test Hyundai’s E-GMP platform. It features dual-motor, all-wheel-drive configuration with 577 horsepower, similar to the Kia EV6 GT. The RN22e aims to explore torque vectoring and new power distribution methods.
When it first came out, the Porsche 944 was positioned as an entry-level option and the most affordable way to join the Porsche brand. Now, 40 years later, the same idea still holds true in the secondary market. However, it’s worth noting that collectors have discovered the 944 over time, so it’s no longer the amazing deal it used to be. According to classic.com, a valuation site, the average selling price for a base model 944 in the past year is $13,310. However, if you search carefully, you can still find rougher examples in the $5,000 range.
The 944 has always been commended for its balanced handling and weight distribution. It features a rear-mounted transaxle connected to the engine via a “torque tube,” which is basically a solid and vibration-free driveshaft licensed from Mitsubishi, of all places.
From the factory, the 944 came with a compact inline four-cylinder engine that took it from 0-60 MPH in a leisurely 8.5 seconds. While some later models offered turbocharging and four valves per cylinder (16V), even those improvements couldn’t compare to a modern LS engine, especially one that has been customized.
If you needed another reason to replace the original Porsche engine, it’s worth mentioning that it had a rubber timing belt that, if it failed, could potentially ruin the entire engine. Some may argue that installing a V8 engine will affect the perfect weight distribution, but if you opt for an aluminum LS engine instead of an iron block, the weight gain over the Porsche four-cylinder is only around 25-30 pounds.
# See Mercedes G-Class, Jimny, Bronco Enjoy A Day Of Off-Roading 1:18-Scale Style
Boys never grow up, they say, their toys just get bigger, and more expensive. This isn’t completely accurate, however, as many grown boys love small toys. Especially if they have wheels and move like real-life machines. You know what we are talking about – detailed radio-controlled scale models of actual cars. And to the best of our knowledge, every single car enthusiast loves miniature car models.
For a good start to the week, we have a short two-minute video featuring some of the world’s most capable off-roaders in a 1:18 scale. These include the [Mercedes-Benz G-Class](https://www.motor1.com/mercedes-benz/amg-g63/), [Suzuki Jimny](https://www.motor1.com/suzuki/jimny/), [Ford Bronco](https://www.motor1.com/ford/bronco/), [Jeep Wrangler](https://www.motor1.com/jeep/wrangler/), and [Lada Niva](https://www.motor1.com/lada/niva/), with the latter being a heavily modified example. These scale models are part of the 1:18 collection of Nischay Sharma, the guy behind the *Miniature Automobiles* channel on *YouTube*.
The video starts with a silver G-Class in G500 trim, which has a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 in its full-scale version. This scale model realistically recreates the G500’s lower suspension which, however, sees no trouble overcoming miniature off-road obstacles.
Next is a modified Lada Niva with no bumpers, a lifted suspension, and grippy tires. There’s additional equipment on the roof and from this short video, this old-school crossover looks to be the most capable of all five models featured.
The Suzuki Jimny isn’t bad either. It shows proper chassis articulation and good skills in the trails and that’s in part thanks to its narrow tires. The Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler represent the American off-road academy with beefier tires and open-top cabins.
While absolutely brilliant, these little off-roaders don’t have the attention to detail Amalgam’s scale models come with. Take for example the [1:4 body replica of the Ferrari 250 GTO](https://www.motor1.com/news/630956/ferrari-250-gto-body-replica-amalgam/), which has been made using traditional coachbuilding methods, including panel-beating techniques for the body like they did in the old days of car manufacturing.
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