Tag Archives: handling

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10 Discontinued Sports Bikes That Should Make A Comeback

With their extremely low power-to-weight ratios, extraordinarily exact dealing with, and race-derived tools and know-how, modern sports bikes are technological marvels that may form the motorbike trade for years to return. However, in distinction to different bikes, present-day sports activities bikes have a really restricted lifespan regardless of their thrilling nature. Although they should be the quickest and most superior fashions accessible, there may be sure to be one thing higher and superior that may can help you save just a few seconds on the monitor or earn them bragging rights when using along with your buddies round city.

Among the various sports activities bikes that have been launched previously, just a few bikes turned legendary and had a major affect on the motorbike group. While some made their mark within the realms of racing historical past, others provided sultry esthetics. We have picked 10 such bikes from a few of the most well-known bike makers from all over the world — Japan, America, Europe, and Britain. It’s inevitable that almost all of us will harbor fond recollections of at the least one in all these classic sports activities beauties, both as a result of we have been the homeowners of 1 or, as a result of we want we had. And though you will not discover many of those going round at present, we actually hope that a few of these will resurface and make a comeback.

In order to provide the newest data doable, the information used to finish this text was sourced straight from the producer’s web site alongside authoritative websites. The fashions are listed when it comes to their manufacturing years, from the earliest to the most recent.

Suzuki-GSX-8R

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10 Fast Sports Bikes Beginners Can Upgrade To

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10 1992 Honda CBR900RR Fireblade

Production Years: 1992 – 2003

1992 Honda CBR900RR Fireblade front 3/4 shot
Bring a Trailer

A revolution within the sports activities bike trade occurred in 1992 when Honda launched the CBR900RR Fireblade. The Japanese maker had one clear goal in thoughts: to construct a motorbike with the ability and weight of a 600cc machine. The consequence was revolutionary and established new benchmarks for the sector.

Fireblade’s engine was its main strength, and it was in a position to surpass 120 horsepower. Reduced weight, improved aerodynamics, and a small type issue all contributed to the Fireblade’s outstanding energy with out sacrificing agility. Because of its design philosophy, which completely balances energy and weight, it continues to have an enduring affect on the trendy motorbike scene.

Engine Specifications

Capacity

893cc

Engine

Liquid-cooled, inline-four cylinder

Power

122 horsepower

Torque

65 pound-feet

9 1994 Ducati 916

Production Years: 1994 – 1998

Ducati 916 Motorcycle
Ducati

Massimo Tamburini created the 916, a motorcycle that’s an iconic masterpiece that remodeled sports activities bike structure and is commonly hailed as some of the gorgeous bikes ever made. Its 1994 launch had an enduring affect, influencing not simply the bikes of that point, but additionally the efficiency and appears of subsequent Ducati motorcycles. Naturally, there are extra causes than you possibly can fathom why 916 ought to make a comeback.

Its core is an unusual 916cc L-twin engine, a legendary engine with a particular torque and character mixture. The engine had a broader torque distribution, which aided in acceleration, though it generated much less energy than its Japanese opponents’ four-cylinder engines. But the 916’s putting design was what actually made it stand out from the gang, persevering with to be a benchmark in sports activities bike design and racing character even at present.

Engine Specifications

Capacity

916 cc

Engine

Four-stroke, 90° “L” twin cylinder, DOHC,

Power

114 horsepower

Torque

66.3 pound-feet

8 1994 Harley-Davidson VR 1000

Production Years: 1994

Harley-Davidson-VR1000-2
Mecum Auctions

You did not anticipate finding a Harley-Davidson on this checklist, did you? The VR 1000 was one in all Harley-Davidson’s quite a few makes an attempt to compete in aggressive racing, particularly the AMA. Its twin-spar ALU body, like that of its Japanese rivals, was mated to a liquid-cooled V-twin engine that was modified and adjusted to supply at the least 150 horsepower.

This motorbike, which was among the fastest to go away H-D’s stables, did not fare too properly in its transient racing profession as a result of, when it was finally launched, it was old-fashioned compared to its rivals. Nevertheless, it’s distinctive, uncommon, and a testomony to what H-D might accomplish if it approached the racetrack with a bit extra seriousness. Who would not need a H-D sports activities bike in 2024?

Engine Specifications

Capacity

996cc

Engine

Liquid-cooled, DOHC, 60-deg V-twin

Horsepower

150 horsepower

Torque

100 pound-feet

7 1996 Yamaha YZF1000R Thunderace

Production Years: 1996 – 2005

Japanese sports bikes have been at their epitome within the late 90s. One of essentially the most outstanding choices of that period was the YZF1000R Thunderace, which was Yamaha’s reply to the marketplace for bikes within the liter-class, which succeeded when it comes to each design and efficiency. It was a revolutionary sports activities motorbike that blended unadulterated energy and complex aesthetics.

It is so iconic that the bike remains to be extremely priceless in 2023, and its collectible standing attests to its significance within the historical past of bikes. Because of its distinctive dealing with, energy, and weird look, it has turn out to be a sought-after basic for each collectors and aficionados. One bike we significantly hope Yamaha brings again in a contemporary avatar.

Engine Specifications

Capacity

1,002cc

Engine

Liquid-cooled, inline four-cylinder

Power

158 horsepower

Torque

78.3 pound-feet

Honda RC30 classic

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10 Powerful Classic Japanese Sports Bikes We Want To Ride

These Japanese beauties are the whole lot you’d ever need: Fast, highly effective and collectable.

6 2007 Honda CBR1100XX Super Blackbird

Production Years: 1996 – 2007

Honda_CBR1100XX Super Blackbird
Honda: Uffe Brännström

In 1996, Honda joined the race for essentially the most fast motorbike, hoping to unseat Kawasaki’s Ninja ZX-11. Honda was profitable on this try, however two years later, Suzuki’s Hayabusa took the crown. The Super Blackbird, nonetheless, was essentially the most uncommon of bikes — a sports activities bike that might perform as a touring bike at a excessive tempo whereas nonetheless being fairly snug.

Although its inline-four engine was bigger than the standard literbike’s, it functioned in the identical manner, attempting to supply as a lot horsepower because it might with a purpose to propel this historic bike on the monitor. The Honda CBR1100XX’s highly refined engine, easy gearbox, and comfy ergonomics all contribute to its sports activities tourer id. It had excellent traits and dealing with, but it was equally well-designed.

Engine Specifications

Capacity

1,137cc

Engine

Inline 4 cylinder

Power

164 horsepower

Torque

91.5 pound-feet

5 2007 Bimota Tesi 3D

Production Years: 2007 – 2009

Bimota_Tesi_3D
Wikimedia Commons

During its practically 20 years of producing, the Tesi went via three totally different fashions. Before the Tesi H2 appeared lately, the 3D was the last version of the Tesi. It was simpler to experience on the restrict as a result of hub-center steering separated the forces of steering and braking.

With its hand-machined aluminum entrance and rear trellis swingarm and carbon fiber, the whole lot else, the 3D is a sports activities bike not like another. They got here with a plastic tank because it was too troublesome to homologate a carbon fiber tank for the US market. Quite merely, the Tesi 3D was an all-Italian motorbike with all of the appeal and eccentricities of its father or mother firm.

Engine Specifications

Capacity

1,078cc

Engine Type

Liquid-cooled, 90-degree Desmodromic V-twin

Max Power

95 horsepower

Max Torque

76 pound-feet

4 2007 BMW R1200S

Production Years: 2006 – 2007

2007 BMW R1200S
Pinterest

Although not in manufacturing for a very long time, the R1200S is an unbelievable sports activities bike that’s nonetheless price proudly owning. Its distinctive design and potent Boxer engine are guilty for that. With essentially the most potent Boxer engine accessible on the time, the bike, which was unveiled for the 2006–2007 mannequin 12 months, was the enormously fashionable R1100S’s alternative.

With a most velocity of 150 MPH, this bike’s highly effective engine made it the quickest BMW sports activities bike of the 12 months. Not solely was this bike lighter than the R1100, nevertheless it additionally had extra energy. Not to overlook, the genius of German engineering and distinctive dealing with and luxury supplied by the Ohlins elements and BMW Motorrad telelever and paralever suspension methods.

Engine Specifications

Capacity

1,170cc

Engine

Boxer twin cylinders

Power

122 horsepower

Torque

83 pound-feet

3 2013 Ducati 1199 Panigale

Production Years: 2013 – 2016

2013 Ducati Superbike 1199 Panigale R
Ducati

When the Ducati 1199 Panigale S was launched in 2011, it was a sports activities motorbike that exceeded expectations. It seemed much less like a liter monster and extra like an older 600 supersport motorbike, though it was the unique model within the Panigale household. Come to consider it, the best Panigale prices nearly 1 / 4 of 100 grand in at present’s occasions!

It was beautiful to take a look at and wonderful to be round. The easy, quick-revving, highly effective twin engine was stuffed with character and was made much more fulfilling by the quick-shifter, traction management, and engine brake management. It was very different from vintage Ducati superbikes, save solely coloration and noise stage. Imagine having one in 2024.

Engine Specifications

Capacity

1,199 cc

Engine

Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, 90° “L” twin-cylinder

Power

195 horsepower

Torque

95 pound-feet

Ducati Panigale V4 R

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10 Ducati Motorcycles With The Best Power-To-Weight Ratios

Ducati’s bikes aren’t the best-performing crimson beauties for nothing.

2 2015 KTM RC8

Production Years: 2008 – 2015

KTM RC8
KTM 

The RC series has produced a few of KTM’s greatest sports activities bikes ever. True motorbike lovers will possible keep in mind the 1190 RC8. Thus, it stays the one whole sport bike by KTM. It used a 1,195cc V-twin engine that produced 90 pound-feet of torque and considerably greater than 170 horsepower, nearly topping the category. The mill was housed inside a metal tubular body that was linked by adjustable monoshock and 43 mm USD forks.

We can not help however fantasize of the RC8 making a reappearance with the RC 990 rumors turning into increasingly more prevalent. After all, the model from Austria boasts a brand new 1,350cc V-twin engine that’s extremely succesful and highly effective. It would undoubtedly make an impression available on the market with a bit underneath 190 horsepower.

Engine Specifications

Capacity

1,195cc

Engine

V-twin, liquid-cooled

Power

173 horsepower

Torque

90 pound-feet

1 2020 Yamaha YZF-R6

Production Years: 1999 – 2020

2020 Yamaha YZF-R6
Cycle Trader

The 600cc supersport is the purest type of monitor motorbike there may be. Look on the energy and torque curves for these engines, and also you’ll notice that it’s important to wring their necks to extract any considerable efficiency from them. With tightening emission norms and slimming revenue margins, the large 4 Japanese producers all took a break from this class of bike.

And now, Yamaha is the one one left to re-enter, as Kawasaki and Honda are again with a bang. It is ironic, for one can argue that the seminal first-gen R1 won’t have existed, had there not been a succesful R6 to donate a chassis for that brute of an engine to shoehorn into. And with out the R1, Yamaha won’t have turn out to be the second most profitable producer in GP racing’s historical past.

Engine Specifications

Capacity

599cc

Engine

Inline-four, liquid-cooled

Power

117 horsepower

Torque

49 pound-feet
Motorsport

The Honda Civic Type R Costs $100,000+ In The Netherlands. Here’s Why

The 2024 Honda Civic Type R prices $45,890 within the US once you embrace vacation spot and dealing with charges. But math is completely different in European Union nations, and it isn’t simply due to the value-added tax (VAT). The Netherlands is a stunning instance of how one can spend six figures on a automobile powered by a small four-cylinder engine. No, we’re not speaking concerning the Mercedes-AMG C63.

Dutch pay 21 p.c for VAT on a brand new automobile earlier than the dreaded Belasting van personenauto’s en motorrijwielen (BPM) comes into play. BPM basically means “taxation of passenger cars and motorcycles” and the charges rely upon the quantity of CO2 emissions spewing from the tailpipe. In the case of the Civic Type R, the recent hatch spits out 186 grams / km.

external_image

The desk above illustrates the BPM calculation, and for the high-performance hatch just like the CTR, falling into the class of essentially the most polluting automobiles ends in an enormous monetary dedication. Purchasing a CTR incurs an preliminary price of €13,655, with a further €549 charged for each gram above the 161 g/km threshold. Given that the feisty Honda emits an additional 25 g/km past this restrict, the overall BPM quantities to €13,725. When you issue within the beforehand talked about mounted price, the cumulative BPM reaches €27,380.

Including all these extra prices ends in a beginning worth of €88,560 within the Netherlands, equal to almost $97,000 at present trade charges. This is greater than double the worth of a CTR with out choices within the United States. If you go for extras such because the Championship White paint, Carbon Pack, and the Illumination Pack, the worth can go as much as as a lot as €95,060 (nearly $104,000).

But the CTR is not the one ludicrously costly sporty four-banger within the nation. The Volkswagen Golf GTI begins at €60,990 ($66,600) and the Golf R retails from €84,990.

Increasingly stringent emissions laws aren’t the one purpose why large-displacement engines are dying in EU nations. These excessive taxes on gas-guzzling automobiles – even these with 2.0-liter engines – are placing one other nail within the ICE’s coffin. This is why automakers are aggressively selling plug-in hybrids and EVs.

News

Hidden Gem Of The Mid-Size SUV Segment

Summary

  • The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer provides peppy efficiency, assured dealing with, and ample cargo at a aggressive worth, making it a sensible and precious selection within the crowded mid-sized crossover market.
  • The Blazer options two engine choices: a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder and a 3.6-liter V-6. While the turbo 4 is just not probably the most highly effective, it provides agile dealing with and spectacular MPG with out compromising efficiency. The V-6 choice gives an exhilarating acceleration and very good physique management.
  • The Blazer provides various trim ranges and customization choices, permitting consumers to decide on the most effective worth for his or her preferences and price range. It comes with customary Chevy Safety Assist and provides numerous superior security and driver help options. The inside provides state-of-the-art expertise and luxury, with obtainable upgrades to reinforce the cabin expertise.

The SUV class is an area that has seen a lot progress and prosperity within the final decade, taking its spot among the most popular vehicles of choice for Americans, behind pickups, in fact. This has created a extremely aggressive area that sees model after model buffing out any and all shortcomings in its lineup to seize the highest spot. While, for them, this could be a irritating one-up sport, for the consumers, the one frustration is which one to decide on.

The mid-sized enviornment can appear crowded when taken into perspective, and it’s, however this merely signifies that regardless of your choice, there’s seemingly a crossover only for you. That stated, the query stays: which one to decide on? Somewhat web analysis can go a great distance, as your dream crossover could also be lurking within the shadow of fashionable fashions, together with the Kia Telluride and Mazda CX-90.

One such mannequin that has but to see its day within the solar additionally provides peppy efficiency, assured dealing with, and ample cargo, all at a really aggressive price ticket. The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer is not the primary mannequin to come back to thoughts when talking of crossovers, but it is laborious to disclaim its practicality and worth, particularly contemplating how shut the crossover competitors is. Let’s crack open the SUV that Car And Driver name “The best crossover to wear the Chevrolet bow tie”.

Gray Chevrolet Blazer

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10 Stand Out Features Of The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer

Beyond its sharp styling, discover out precisely why the two-row mid-size Chevy Blazer stands out within the crowded compact SUV phase

In order to provide the newest and correct data doable, the info used to compile this text was sourced from numerous producer web sites and different authoritative sources, together with Chevrolet, GM Authority, Fueleconomy.gov, KBB, and Car And Driver.

The Camaro Of SUVs Offers A Turbocharged Engine Option

The oft-called “Camaro of SUVs” borrows loads from its muscle automotive counterpart. The muscular, sporty design that echoes all through the automobile, in addition to its performance-inspired aggression, comes from the before-mentioned Camaro. Seemingly in an try and merge the attraction of each sportscar spunk and crossover practicality, Chevrolet has produced a mid-sized SUV that provides an uncompromising package deal. The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer could characterize the most effective of each worlds.

The 2024 Blazer features two powertrain options. The first, and customary, choice is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Though the turbo 4 is not probably the most highly effective in its phase, it is paired with agile dealing with and nimble tuning that permit each horse to stay in movement. The customary turbocharged engine boasts spectacular MPG with out compromising efficiency, displaying extremely responsive dealing with and surprisingly motivated acceleration.

2024 Blazer RS 3.6-Liter V-6 Performance

Engine

3.6 Liter V-6

Horsepower

308

Torque

270 pound-feet

Transmission

nine-speed automated transmission

Curb Weight

4,310 kilos

Driveline

FWD/AWD

0-60 MPH

6.6 seconds

Top Speed

130 MPH(est.)

(Source: Chevrolet, Car And Driver: Tested)

Upgrade to the turbo 4’s large brother, the three.6-liter V-6, and horsepower goes as much as 308, whereas the torque grows to 270 pound-feet. The 3.6-liter DOHC V-6 asserts itself confidently, bellowing an aggressive growl when accelerating. Speaking of accelerating, the 2024 Blazer is provided with the V-6 choice and sprints from 0-60 MPH in 6.6 seconds. While not the quickest, it boasts wonderful means, particularly when cornering. The very good physique roll and stance permit the Blazer to masquerade as a sportscar in SUV clothes.

Additional driving modes, together with tow/haul, off-road, snow/ice, and AWD are non-obligatory upgrades, although the 2024 Blazer does come customary with tour mode and sport mode. Tow/haul mode will turn out to be useful for individuals who discover themselves doing a little bit of haulin’ sometimes. The V-6-equipped Blazer, when outfitted with correct towing tools, has a max tow score of 4,500 kilos.

Diverse Available Features Allow Detailed Customization

The two engine choices present an additional layer of purchaser selection, however Chevy did not cease there. Along with the pair of powertrains, the 2024 Blazer is available in 4 various trim ranges starting from $35,400 – $42,800 MSRP. While the highest trim, the Premier, options the most effective cabin supplies and drivetrain choices, the decrease trims can be optioned to provide the best value for cost.

2024 Chevrolet Blazer Trim Levels

  • 2LT
  • 3LT
  • RS
  • Premier

To make the Blazer extra versatile, Chevy provides the two-row crossover with both front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Though the AWD choice is not obtainable for each trim choice, there’s loads of center floor to fulfill even the pickiest of consumers. The RS trim options Chevrolet’s twin-clutch Advanced All-Wheel Drive system, which is basically sport-tuned AWD.

If you are actually seeking to do a deep dive into the Chevy Blazer, look no additional than the 2024 mannequin 12 months’s particular trim packages. Adding one more customization choice, the 2024 Blazer, particularly the 2LT and 3LT trim, could be had in both the Redline Edition or Midnight/Sport Edition. These particular version packages add customized beauty accents and distinctive options that make the Camaro of SUVs stand out much more.

Options End At The Transmission

All trims, regardless of the drivetrain or powertrain, connect with a nine-speed automated transmission, little doubt contributing to the Blazer’s respectable MPG score. The EPA charges the turbocharged 2.0-liter choice at 25 combined MPG, whereas the thirstier V-6 choice is ready to squeeze 21 mixed MPG. Though not the most fuel-efficient, the Chevy Blazer would not attempt to be. This sporty SUV merely goals to bridge the hole

Red and Gray 2024 Chevrolet Traverse

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Interior Options Provide Endless Entertainment

The customary inside comforts are state-of-the-art, to not point out the obtainable upgrades that improve the cabin’s expertise. Standard tools features a 10.2-inch touchscreen, a wi-fi charging pad, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto capabilities. Moving up the listing of trims sees the Blazer achieve extra facilities, to not point out there are fairly a couple of non-obligatory upgrades that do not require shifting up in trim to acquire.

Options together with a premium Bose sound system improve, Wi-Fi hotspot, and superior security and driver help options could be included for a further value. However, choices just like the twin-clutch Advanced All-Wheel Drive system can solely be had on the Blazer RS, and the Redline, Midnight, and Sport Editions can solely be optioned on the Blazer 2LT and 3LT.

Driver Assist And Safety Come Standard

The 2024 Blazer, throughout all trims, options customary Chevy Safety Assist. This sensible suite of six security and help options could be discovered on each 2024 Blazer. However, larger trims have customary superior security and help options which are non-obligatory for decrease trims.

Notable Safety And Driver Assist Features

  • Forward collision alert and automated emergency braking help
  • Lane preserve help with lane departure warning
  • IntelliBeam excessive beam help
  • Adaptive cruise management (non-obligatory)
  • Front and rear parking help (non-obligatory)
  • Lane change alert with blind zone alert (non-obligatory)

Interior Comforts And Cargo

Though the inside is not as premium as a few of its pricier competitors, the Blazer provides snug touchpoints starting from soft-touch molded plastics to premium leather-based. As is the case with a lot of the Blazer’s options, choices are aplenty in the case of supplies. Although, not like the beforehand talked about interchangeable choices, inside supplies and colour schemes are primarily hooked up to designated trim choices and complement/coincide with that trim’s function. For instance, the highest Premier trim options leather-appointed upholstery, whereas the bottom 2LT options soft-touch plastic and microfiber upholstery.

Cargo-wise, the Blazer is a mid-list occupier. There are roomier choices, together with the Lincoln Nautilus and GMC Acadia, however you will be paying extra for that further area. Plus, you will forfeit the sporty driving manners of the Blazer in change for typical SUV qualities. The 2024 Blazer provides 39.6 inches of second-row legroom with a further 30.5 cubic ft of cargo area behind the second row. The second-row slides ahead for simple entry to the rear cargo, additionally they break up 60/40 and, when laid down, present a good 64.2 cubic ft of max cargo quantity.

Red 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe on the road

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Chevrolet’s SUV Lineup, Pricing, And Features

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Why The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer is A Compelling Option

2023-chevolet-blazer-action-shot-
Chevrolet

The Blazer occupies a particular place within the crossover phase, because it is ready to capitalize on what SUV consumers get pleasure from in a crossover, in addition to pique sportscar fanatics’ curiosity. Though it would not sit on the high of the crossover kingdom, it has been quietly racking up gross sales, so it is doing one thing proper. The mix of practicality and discount, together with the undeniably sporty DNA of the Blazer permit it to linger within the thoughts longer as a result of sheer uniqueness of its twin persona.

Its price ticket additionally earns it a second look, as most fashionable SUVs begin within the excessive $30,000 vary. The entry-level Blazer begins at $35,400, making it one of many cheaper choices. Some have acknowledged that the inside materials seems cheaper than larger priced fashions, and, nicely, there is a cause they’re larger priced. The Blazer tastefully makes use of much less premium supplies in sure areas to decrease the general value per unit. In flip, this enables a decrease gross sales worth and a greater discount. This finally makes the Blazer extra accessible to a wider market.

How The Blazer Compares To Its Competition

As far as luxurious and premium trimmings go, fashions together with the Kia Telluride, Mazda CX-90, and Toyota Grand Highlander have the sting as a result of high quality and extent of their elements and options. However, the 2024 Blazer provides a number of non-obligatory upgrades that might simply rival the highest canines of the mid-sized phase. But, to be honest, when you begin loading up on obtainable upgrades, the worth can shortly leap up past what was initially marketed.

Even so, the efficiency and economic system boasted by the Blazer permit it to maintain up with any of its phase mates, seemingly due to the Camaro-inspired persona. Additionally, the big variety of customizable choices can cater to nearly all consumers. That is in the event you’re available in the market for a well-priced SUV Camaro.

Long-Term Review

Peugeot 408 2023 long-term take a look at

The dealing with was surprisingly pleasant, even when neutered considerably by the odd driving place and muted steering. Generally, it felt fairly at dwelling in any setting. And the 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol engine the stalwart Puretech – matched ample efficiency with not unhealthy economic system, averaging 38.8mpg.

Of course, given my premise, I have to additionally think about the points that will attraction extra to the typical would-be Nissan Qashqai purchaser. First, practicality. That low and lengthy boot: is it nearly as good as the next, shorter one? Yes. Early on, I used the 408 as a elimination van, transferring virtually an entire flat’s value of stuff in only a few journeys. And if you wish to do that scientifically, the 408’s cargo capability is 536 litres, or 1611 litres with the rear seats folded down, which compares with 520 and 1480 for the brand new upright Peugeot 3008.

On different events, grownup rear passengers have been fairly pleased with their seats, area and, opposite to my expectations given these window and shoulder traces, views. Next, tech. As I mentioned earlier, it had some issues: primarily capricious icons for the heated seats and wheel and an unreliable Apple CarPlay linkage.

Otherwise, although, I discovered the infotainment system pretty straightforward to make use of, and I used to be grateful for the weird secondary touchscreen beneath, which hosted giant shortcut ‘buttons’ that I discovered to hit with out wanting whereas driving.

I additionally discovered the lively security methods acceptable – as a result of they have been fast and straightforward to show off. Automatic emergency braking is at all times welcome, and I’m coming round to adaptive cruise management on our more and more choked roads, however I’m by no means going to get on with a system that yanks the wheel in my fingers, particularly for no good purpose, and in widespread with most fashionable automobiles, the 408’s lane protecting help did precisely that.

Onto the design. I believe it is tremendous, regardless of its complexity, and loads of folks agreed. Not simply because of the new emblem, some have been shocked to be taught it was a Peugeot. I imply, consider the aesthetic distress of the model simply 15 years in the past.

I actually felt it had a premium aura, and I cherished driving one thing that actually stood out. It’s only a disgrace Elixir Red paint is so expensive, because it’s even nicer than Obsession Blue, as seen on the plugin hybrid mannequin that I additionally tried.

Car review

Porsche Macan electrical prototype overview

It’s the dealing with precision and general breadth of the dynamics that basically received our consideration the primary trip within the new Macan, although.

Meier says a number of effort has gone into making certain its traits have a real Porsche really feel, and certainly it’s terrifically fluent by EV requirements, with an outlined rear-biased apportioning of energy and a capability to make fast adjustments of path with a great deal of confidence-inspiring grip at each ends – despite the fact that our check automobiles had been sporting all-terrain tyres. (Aiding this agility on the Turbo is a rear-wheel steering system.)

The steering could be very exact and weightier than that of the SQ6 E-tron, which we just lately drove in prototype type. The Porsche Active Suspension Management system that may come as normal on the Macan Turbo will get air springs and new twin-valve dampers, offering excellent physique management and self-levelling. There’s a firmness to the trip and a few extreme street roar at occasions.

However, it takes care of pockmarked and damaged bitumen with deft management, hardly ever requiring greater than a single cycle of compression and rebound to dissipate street shock. (Note, although, that lower-grade Macans will trip on much less refined metal suspension.)

Further reward ought to be heaped on the brakes. They ship numerous really feel by EV requirements, mixing within the recuperation capabilities properly with out resorting to a decoupling of drive to the entrance axle, as some do. 

“We don’t talk about one-pedal driving at Porsche; we talk about one-pedal braking instead,” says Meier, in reference to many EVs’ heavy use of regenerative braking.

News

Showdown: New Ferrari Purosangue vs Aston Martin DBX 707

When it comes to handling, the Purosangue has a balanced and driveline that gives it a distinguished feel that is typical of a car of this type or any type, to be honest. Although it doesn’t feel significantly lighter than it is, its handling character is very much in line with the high-status super-GT style. The short gearing allows the V12’s 8250rpm redline to be reached and the eight-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox is excellent. However, the brake pedal is a bit sensitive at first.

This unique Ferrari has four seats and a relatively high ride, but the driving experience is more complex than that of many genuine sports cars. It’s almost as if it has managed to blend the best of both the SUV and supercar worlds – although that’s a bit of an oversimplification. Firstly, is the suspension really natural feeling? It’s hard to say. Part of its allure is that it lacks transparency. Nonetheless, the system is remarkable in many aspects, fits this application perfectly, and plays a crucial role in the Purosangue surpassing the very capable air-sprung set-up of the DBX in terms of ride and handling prowess. In short, it’s quite revolutionary.

But is the Purosangue truly practical enough to fulfill the SUV requirement? That’s debatable. No one expected it to rival a Range Rover, and yet… If you take out the rear seats from the equation, the sense of occasion that the Purosangue so effectively evokes is not far from that of an 812 Superfast – which is not exactly what most of us desire on a day-to-day basis.

Ferrari Purosangue vs Aston Martin DBX: Practicality

Within city limits, the Ferrari often feels cumbersome – downright intimidating. And, to be mundane for a moment, the imprecise pedal response at walking speed and somewhat unpredictable creep function can turn parallel parking into a costly game of chance. While it does have a decent boot, it still isn’t all that spacious.

The DBX is not exactly a shopping cart, but it’s easier to just hop in and head anywhere. It’s more imposing, less objectively refined, yet somehow more relaxing and doesn’t attract nearly as much attention (positive or otherwise). Additionally, it offers a more generous back row, not to mention a boot the size of a Mercedes E-Class.

News

The Story Of Flyin’ Miata And What Makes Them So Special

Summary

  • The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a well-loved sports car known for its lightweight design and excellent handling, but it has been criticized for its lack of power.
  • Flyin’ Miata provides V-8 conversion kits for Miatas, using LS crate engines from GM. These kits include sub-frame reinforcement, chassis bracing, and upgraded suspension and brakes.
  • The ND generation Miata is considered the best for V-8 conversions, with the Flyin’ Miata team pairing it with a 6.2-liter V-8 engine that delivers 525 horsepower, resulting in impressive performance. Unfortunately, Flyin’ Miata has stopped making these conversions since 2019.

The Mazda MX-5 Miata is one of the most beloved automobiles in history, so much so in fact, that it holds the record for the best-selling sports car of all time. In its three-decade production run, it has gone through four different generations and a lot of changes. However, in its essence, the Miata stayed true to what made it so great; a front-engined RWD lightweight sports car with a near-perfect distribution ratio and great handling. Jeremy Clarkson famously once said, “It’s a cure for depression, this car, it really is. You just can’t be in a bad mood when you’re driving it”.

The only persistent criticism that the Miata has faced in its long life has been its lack of power. This is where Flyin’ Miata comes into the picture. Every Miata owner has heard of Flyin’ Miata. Based in Colorado, the company which started out in the service business, has been around for four decades and offers a wide selection of bolt-on parts designed to make your Miatas fly. Back in 2009, they built their first Miata Habu, a 480 horsepower small-block LS engine swapped MX-5, nicknamed “Elvis”. This was the car they perfected their V-8 conversion kits on, before making it available to the general public.

To give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, including Flyin’ Miata, Car and Driver, and Road & Track.

Related: Everything You Need To Know About The Factory V-8 Mazda MX-5 Miata

Turning The Dial Upto 11 On The Miata

The habu is a small venomous snake native to Japan and is an apt name for the converted Miata. Elvis has been with Flyin’ Miata company since 2003 and started its life as a white NB-generation MX-5. This car was initially donated by Mazda to Flyin’ Miata to be used as a development car. Elvis has been Flyin’ Miata’s test mule on various concept builds for the past two decades, including the V-8 conversion. Over its lifetime, Elvis has had four engines, so far, and is currently a hill-climb race car built to take part in one of America’s oldest and most prestigious races – the Colorado Hill Climb.

The company’s team has done V-8 conversions for every generation of Miata. Every build features a version of an LS crate engine from GM, which has been chosen for its widespread availability, power, and cost. The team begins the build by

  • Reinforcing the base car with sub-frames
  • Seam welding
  • Chassis bracing
  • A “Big Mama Jama Brake” kit which consists of a Wilwood Stage 1 braking setup
  • Coilover suspension
  • A custom exhaust system

A conversion would set you back $49,995, which does not include the cost of the car and every build can be endlessly customized to exactly your taste. If you are more into DIY, Flyin’ Miata also sells subframe kits which you can buy and do your conversion with a scavenged LS motor. Imagine everything good about the Miata combined with one of the most versatile American engines ever made – that’s in a nutshell what the Miata Habu is all about.

Related: 10 Things That Make The 1989-1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata NA Special

Here’s What Makes The MX-5 ND “Indy” A Noteworthy V-8 Miata

The ND generation Miata is widely considered by many as the best handling Miata ever. In 2016, Flyin’ Miata paired the ND Miata with a 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V-8 LS376/525 crate engine, and named it “Indy”, get it? This engine is essentially the LS3 engine from a fifth-generation Camaro SS with a modified camshaft for use in American Speed Association stock-car racing. This modified engine has an output of 525 horsepower at 6200 RPM. Flyin’ Miata has claimed that the ND Miata is the best generation for an engine swap due to its more spacious engine bay when compared to previous generations.

Performance

Engine

6.2-Liter NA V-8

Output

525 Horsepower

Torque

486 pound-feet

0-60 MPH

3.5 seconds

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

Driveline

RWD

(Data sourced from Flyin’ Miata)

The ND Miata also gets a handful of modifications to make it gel with the larger engine, including a new Tremec T-56 six-speed manual transmission and, an aluminum driveshaft with a rear differential borrowed from a Camaro. It also ditches its electronic steering rack for a hydraulic one, also from the Camaro. The result is a fire-breathing, tarmac-eating, force of combustion that accelerates from 0-60 MPH in 3.5 seconds.

If you are wondering whether the heavier engine affects the legendary Miata’s weight distribution, you will be happy to hear that it does not. Fortunately due to the LS engine being all-aluminium and some meticulous fabrication work by the Flyin’ Miata team – the weight distribution is at 53.4-percent front, 46.6-percent rear weight distribution. The team also sources a controller area network (CAN) computer from MRS Electronic in Germany to ensure that the Miata’s computers can communicate with GM’s computers. And before you ask, yes, these conversions work on the Fiat 124 Abarth Spider as well.

Related: How Mazda Has Achieved 3 Decades Of Roadster Supremacy

There Have Been Some Insane V-8 Miata Conversions Over The Years

Over the years there have been several versions of V-8 Miatas from FM including:

  • Atomic Betty: A bright red 2009 MX-5 NC with a Corvette V-8 engine under the hood. Atomic Betty is a more refined V-8-powered roadster when compared to Elvis.
  • Catfish: A Miata with a more streamlined body kit made by Bauer Limited Productions which is lighter than the stock Miata by 600 pounds.
  • Exocet: An Ariel Atom-inspired bare-bones track weapon designed to be wicked fun on the track.

Related: Rotary Mazda Miata: Why It Never Happened And Is There A Remedy?

One-Of-A-Kind V-8 Conversions From Flyin’ Miata Will Be Getting Rarer From Now On

Unfortunately, Flyin’ Miata has stopped making these wild conversions since 2019, for purely business reasons. Kieth Tanner from FM recently made a video going into detail on why they had to stop offering V-8 conversions. However, if you are in the market for one there are plenty of V-8 converted Miatas out in the wild, still available used car sites like Bring-a-trailer. If you are looking for a V-8 conversion for your own Miata, other brands like V-8 Roadsters offer turnkey packages to turn a stock Miata.

As for Flyin’ Miata, their builds are a testament to the inherent versatility of the Miata platform and the only limit is your imagination. Even though they do not do V-8 conversions anymore, they still make a wide range of products specially designed to make your Miata go fast. Even after three decades the passionate team at FM remains dedicated to producing great products for your Miata. With the next generation release of the Miata just around the corner, the team is hard at work dreaming up some premium products.

NewsNew

2024 KTM 350 XC-F FACTORY EDITION ANNOUNCED

The KTM 350 XC-F nearly wants no introduction. It produces usable, light-weight energy and aggressive dealing with have landed it numerous victories and tons of podiums, together with titles within the area of cross nation and off-road racing. Below are the official images and data from KTM USA:

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Motorsport

Watch Volkswagen ID. Buzz Maneuver Through Obstacles to Pass Moose Test

While vans are not typically known for their sporty handling, it is interesting to observe how the European version of the VW ID. Buzz performs in both the moose test and a slalom. This retro-inspired electric vehicle demonstrates impressive performance during the evaluations.

This particular ID. Buzz variant showcases a short-wheelbase design with a single rear-mounted electric motor, which generates 201 horsepower. It is equipped with Continental EcoContact 6 tires.