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Would You Pay Almost $20K For This Rugged Overlanding Camping Trailer?

I hate unitaskers with a ardour.

Blame years of spending sensible time in kitchens each large and small (and each skilled and residential). There, instruments that may do an terrible lot of issues are universally in excessive demand.

You may need thought it was only a quirk of Alton Brown’s when he would rail in opposition to unitaskers on his varied Food Network reveals, however on that time, he isn’t unsuitable. They take up useful area that would as a substitute be occupied by one thing that may deal with a number of jobs. (There are exceptions, after all, however usually talking: Yes.)

For that cause, in addition to having spent most of my childhood in comparatively tiny flats the place area was at a premium, I’m an individual who’s been primed my total life to understand a little bit of intelligent, multifunctional design.

With all that in thoughts, the multifunctional cleverness of the brand new Go All-Terrain Overlanding/Camping Trailer from Sylvansport is completely interesting to an individual like me. It’s a trailer, so you may haul bikes in it. You can haul an ATV in it. The rack up prime allows you to add a prime field, or kayaks, or choose different objects that match its carrying capabilities. You can even mount further stuff on the skin for simple entry, like your jerry cans or a spare tire.

But even higher than that, the GOAT has this cool waterproof, seam-sealed camping pod that pops down simply to allegedly sleep 4 people inside. There’s a fold-down desk inside that may both be used as a desk, or as a part of a king-plus mattress setup, or for no matter you want it for contained in the little tenting capsule. It’s a genuinely cool, helpful trying little bit of package, would not you say?

Wait, It Costs HOW Much?

All that usefulness and ruggedness comes at a value, which I’m positive that you simply, as a human performing on this planet, have already instinctively understood.

What is that value, although? If you have learn the headline, you already know. The base value begins at US $18,495 in the event you preorder now (at the very least, on the time of writing on March 8, 2024). A preorder at that value may be had on the Sylvansport web site with a deposit of $5,000 (and if you wish to be taught extra, you will discover that website linked in our Sources).

For these unfamiliar, Sylvansport has been round since 2004, and gives quite a few different tenting options beginning at $2,695. At the excessive finish of its present product vary, it additionally gives the Vast Travel Trailer, which begins at $69,995. So, by comparability, I suppose that the GOAT is actually inexpensive. Then once more, the Vast can also be precisely described by its identify. So there’s additionally that to contemplate.

It would not be as elegant, however there are a variety of motorcycle trailers, pop-up truck tents, and good high quality camping gear you may purchase for $18,495 or much less. If you might have extra money than time and endurance, then this looks like a no brainer (I guess).

But for everybody else: Would you pay nearly $20K for this admittedly very intelligent overlanding trailer/camper combo unit? Let us know within the feedback.

How The Crackdown On Shady Dealership Practices Will Protect You

Many folks hate automobile buying even though they love vehicles. The downside is the gross sales strategies and the issues sellers attempt to push onto patrons. Often, sellers use strategies that trigger folks to ask, “Shouldn’t that be illegal?” The Federal Trade Commission has responded by passing new guidelines to deal with particular acts by automobile sellers – making among the most egregious gross sales strategies unlawful.

The new rule is called the Combating Auto Retail Scams Act so that it’s going to type a cool acronym; “CARS” – Get it?! In typical federal bureaucratic type, it’s voluminous. Wading through all 372 pages reveals the first areas the feds have addressed. Let’s get into it.

“Bait-and-Switch” is explicitly forbidden. If a vendor advertises a automobile with a particular worth, it higher be out there at that worth to somebody who makes the trek to the vendor. Likewise with any marketed financing charges or reductions. Another factor you won’t have considered, however the marketed automobile truly must exist. It seems that some unscrupulous sellers record non-existent vehicles, or vehicles that already bought, for glorious costs. They then use that to upsale prospects into a distinct automobile. “But let me show you something we just got in!”

More importantly, the CARS rule forbids misrepresentations about essential data. Things like the worth of the automobile or different prices which the buyer will probably be charged. Dealers may also be required to be truthful about non-compulsory “add-ons”. They can’t let you know that it’s required so that you can purchase an prolonged guarantee, for instance.

It’s price nothing that lots of the guidelines contained in CARS have been impressed by public suggestions the FTC gathered throughout a public remark interval. Story after story described comparable frequent scams. That results in the addition of some guidelines you’d assume may be apparent, however right here we’re. A vendor can’t promote a service contract for oil adjustments on an electrical automobile. The vendor can’t promote a GAP coverage that’s void as a result of it’s not out there for that specific automobile or neighborhood the place the client lives. Same for subscriptions that can’t be used on the automobile being bought.

Sadly, plenty of the foundations in CARS have been impressed by a complaints from members of our armed companies. The Department of Defense even weighed in on this one, saying service members wanted extra safety from “predatory practices” of sellers. So, sellers can’t mislead a purchaser by saying the vendor has some kind of affiliation or relationship with the navy, and it can’t lie about which financed automobiles can and can’t be taken out of state. While service members usually transfer from state to state, some sellers wish to hold a detailed eye on their collateral in the event that they offered financing. While there are already legal guidelines in place dictating when a financier can and can’t repossess a automobile purchased by a service member, CARS reinforces them.

The CARS is predicted to enter impact July 30, 2024. I believe plenty of automobile sellers will complain about these rules and the way troublesome it’s to maintain monitor of all of them. However, if you happen to take the time to undergo the foundations you’ll see they are often summarized fairly simply into a number of primary ideas. Bait-and-Switch is against the law, as are different unscrupulous and deceptive gross sales ways. And don’t rip off service members. It appears fairly onerous to argue with that.


Steve Lehto is an attorney from Michigan specializing in Lemon Law. Also an writer, his books embrace Preston Tucker and His Battle to Build the Car of Tomorrow and Dodge Daytona and Plymouth Superbird: Design, Development, Production and Competition. He additionally has a podcast.

Lenovo Legion Go Review: The Swiss Army Knife Of Handheld Gaming PCs

The Lenovo Legion Go has a full-fledged Windows desktop operating system, making it convenient to install any desired programs. This sets it apart from the Valve Steam Deck with SteamOS, which can be frustrating when venturing beyond Steam’s ecosystem. With the Legion Go, you also get three free months of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, creating a hassle-free gaming experience without any extra effort. The device accommodates multiple game storefronts, including Steam, Epic Game Store, Humble Bundle, GoG Galaxy, Uplay, and EA apps.

However, using Windows 11 on a touchscreen device like the Legion Go can be challenging and awkward. While Lenovo has a custom launcher called “Legion Space” to enhance the Windows 11 experience, it feels rushed and underdeveloped. Although there are dedicated buttons on the controllers for Legion Space and the settings sidebar, they are not frequently used. In comparison, the Steam Deck’s SteamOS offers a smooth, console-quality experience with optimized “Deck-verified” games. There is hope for Lenovo to improve Legion Space and provide a similar experience to SteamOS while maintaining accessibility to all game storefronts.

Why The Ford Maverick Hybrid Makes Perfect Sense

Hybrids! Some love them, some hate them, and yet, nobody can deny that they’re a pretty good option amid today’s market conditions. This is especially true for the Ford Maverick FHEV, which has considerably grown as a popular choice over the last few years. On October 4, Ford revealed that the hybrid variant accounted for 56.6 percent of all Mavericks sold. This success is proof that it is rapidly sticking out as one of the smartest choices in the pickup truck universe. For those who are not yet attracted to electric trucks, the Maverick hybrid is the cheapest, and most efficient alternative available.

More than just a low price tag, the unibody truck is a perfect combination of practicality and trailblazing abilities, providing enough tech and comfort in the process to keep you satisfied with your $26,495 purchase. As the industry rapidly shifts to EVs, we remain glad that Ford is keeping the hybrid Maverick in its panoply. Hence, we’ve decided to detail why it is a perfect asset for the manufacturer, and an ideal pick for consumers.

The information in this article was compiled from various reputable sources, including Consumer Reports, Car And Driver, CleanTechnica, Ford, and The Drive.

Related: 10 Hybrid And Electric Trucks To Watch Out For In 2024

It Is Tailor-Made To Be A Crowd-Favorite

While the partly-electric Maverick is known for its low MSRP, its upcoming version will be a slight departure from the norm. Contrary to tradition, the hybrid powertrain will not come as standard on the 2024 Ford Maverick. Instead, it is the 2.0-liter EcoBoost that will now take over as the introductory trim level for 2024. The hybrid option, on the other hand, will cost an extra $1500. This effectively brings the price of the 2.5-liter hybrid option to a minimum of $26,495.

Despite the price-tag increase, the hybrid remains a solid bargain, especially if you’re not willing to spend $39,900 on the Ram 1500 e-Torque, and the $59 475 Toyota Tundra Hybrid. On top of being considerably pricier, these two alternatives are notably less efficient, which naturally raises the cost of ownership, making the Maverick even more affordable in comparison. The latter offers 24–37 combined mpg, while the e-Torque and the Tundra Hybrid offer 17–22 mpg and 19–22 mpg in comparison.

Thus, by offering the Maverick hybrid at a competitively low price, and making it a cost-saving, consumer-friendly option, Ford is essentially securing a strategic place in the market. On top of being a cheaper counterpart to the pricier electric trucks that have yet to catch up in terms of value and off-roading performance, the hybrid Maverick is also the most alluring choice on the budget-friendly end of the spectrum.

Related: The Future Of Electric Pickup Trucks

The Hybrid Powertrain Provides Unparalleled Efficiency

Two Ford Mavericks
Ford

2023 Ford Maverick Hybrid Performance Specs

Engine

2.5-liter FHEV

Horsepower

191 horses

Torque

155 pound-feet

0-60mph

7.7 seconds

Combined Range

500 miles

Towing Capacity

2,000 pounds

Payload Capacity

1,500 pounds

(Specs sourced from Ford)

On top of being modestly priced, the Maverick Hybrid offers a pretty decent bang for your buck in terms of overall comfort and quality value. Although far from being a chef d’oeuvre, the styling is sleek enough for a vehicle within the sub-30k price range. The imposing fascia is enhanced by a large grille and square-shaped headlights that help give it the presence of a badass off-roader. Under the skin, the 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle petrol engine works in perfect cohesion with the electric motor and battery to produce 191 horsepower and 155 pound-feet of torque.

Although these specs only translate into a 0-60 mph time of 7.1 seconds, the Maverick still makes up for it in its own way. As previously mentioned, it is an ideal alternative to electric trucks, which leave a lot to be desired in terms of range and efficiency. On top of offering up to 40 miles per gallon in the city and 33 miles per gallon on the highway, it also provides up to 500 miles of range on a single tank, which has yet to be TRULY equaled by even the best truck in the EV industry, or any other realm.

You can thus go on about your lengthy trip to nature’s unfavorable terrains, untethered by range anxiety. In addition, the Maverick still boasts a 1500-pound payload capacity, coupled with 2000 pounds of towing capacity, despite the hybrid powertrain which is known to impact such numbers.

Related: What Nobody Is Telling You About Plug-in Hybrid Vehicles

The Tech Features Are The Cherry On Top

Red 2022 Ford Maverick Hybrid
Ford

For a base price, customers are also treated to an 8-inch infotainment screen with six speakers, Apple CarPlay Android Auto. And yet, the most innovative aspect of the Maverick is its customizable flex bed, which takes practicality to the next level. The Maverick’s Flexbed System allows you to configure your bed according to your needs through a multitude of features such as a bed slot rail system, a multi-position tailgate, and a bed extender which increases the overall length from 4.5 feet to 6.0 feet.

The system is also supplied with six standard bed tiedowns, a 12-volt outlet, and functional 2×4 and 2×6 pockets. To seal the deal, the Maverick also comes with a decent amount of safety features, including:

  • Pre-Collision Assist
  • Automatic Emergency Breaking
  • Blind Spot Information System (BLIS)
  • Auto High-beams
  • Lane Centering
  • Adaptive Cruise

Not a bad value for such a decently-priced truck!

Related: Why Now Is The Time To Invest In A Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle

Electric Trucks Can’t Hold A Candle

Red 2022 Ford Maverick Hybrid
Ford

Perhaps the best argument for hybrid pickups is that they are a best-of-both world solution. While smaller EVs (including SUVs and sports cars) have been able to win the culture war due to their superior performance and glamorous appeal, electric trucks still have some work to do. Consumer Reports has already established how even the most efficient offerings in the category – namely the Ford F-150 Lightning and the Rivian R1T– can lose more than two thirds of their overall range when towing. This isn’t really what you’re looking for when you purchase a big vehicle supposedly built for heavy-duty activities.

Furthermore, lithium-ion batteries, which power most EVs today, are well known for being vulnerable to extreme weather conditions.This, again, works to the detriment of electric pickup trucks, which are expected to be as reliable as their ICE predecessors during off-roading escapades, due to their heavy MSRPs. At the same time, electric trucks do happen to cost less in overall maintenance costs and fueling fees than both gas-powered and hybrid trucks. But you don’t really buy a truck for its efficiency, do you?

No, you buy one because you want a terrain-challenging badass that can do all the things a regular vehicle can do. If you’re looking to spend less on fueling, but also want to get the good ol’trucking experience, then you’re better off opting for a cheap, yet effective hybrid pickup like the Ford Maverick.

Related: 10 Best Luxury Hybrid SUVs Of 2023

The Maverick Is One Of The Best Hybrid Offerings Currently

Light Blue 2022 Ford Maverick Hybrid
Ford

When analyzing the difference between electric trucks and their “fossil-fueled” counterpart, The Drive came to a rather nuanced, and less-than-flattering conclusion that undermined all preconceptions. In truth, e-pickups can be even more detrimental to the environment than a smaller gas-car, due to the polluting nature of their manufacturing process. At the same time, they’re also better for the planet than their ICE equivalents, but the discrepancy isn’t as glaring in that regard as you might think.

Because of their more gargantuan frames, electric pickup trucks need heftier battery packs to cover the same distance as a smaller EV. The manufacturing process of those heavy battery packs is far from being eco-friendly either, and it takes years for an electric truck to make up for it. In their article, the Drive mentioned that by the time an EV truck had saved enough energy to compensate for the extra emissions resulting from the production of their sizable batteries, a considerable part of the e-truck’s lifespan had already gone by.

It is therefore hard to make a case for electric pickup trucks, when their unsatisfying ecological advantages inferior towing capacities, and all-around off-roading abilities fail to make up for their higher price-tags. Conversely, hybrid trucks are a cheaper, more favorable middle ground between their gas-guzzling counterparts, and their alternatives in the e-segment, which are still missing a few key qualities.

5 iPad Tricks Every Teacher Will Want To Know For Their Classroom

Do you find it annoying to constantly unlock your iPad just to access the utility tools (like timer, notes, calculator) you need for your class? Well, there’s a way to make it more convenient by customizing your Control Center. And the best part is, you can do this even when your device is locked. This way, you can quickly open your frequently used utility tools whenever you need them.

Here’s how you can customize the Control Center on your iPad:

  1. Open the Settings app.
  2. Go to the Control Center section.
  3. Add your preferred tools to the Included Controls by tapping the green plus sign.

If you’re not sure which tools would be most useful in the classroom, here are a few ideas:

  • Screen Recording: Record your screen and voice during lessons.
  • Calculator: Quickly solve math problems or grade a student’s paper.
  • Timer: Set a timer for class activities.
  • Magnifier: Zoom in on texts, images, and presentations.
  • Notes: Jot down thoughts, ideas, and reminders throughout the day.
  • Text Size: Make the text on your iPad larger.
  • Flashlight: Use it during emergency situations.
  • Camera: Capture photos and scan QR codes.

Once you’re happy with your selection of tools, simply exit the Settings app. Now, you can easily open the Control Center from any app or from the lock screen.

15 Best Electric Motorcycles

Electric motorcycles are becoming more popular and there are now a wide variety of options available to suit different riders. Whether you’re a daily commuter or an off-road enthusiast, there’s an electric bike for you. Here are our top 15 picks in the e-motorcycle space.

Updated July 2023: This article has been updated with the latest electric motorcycles on the market, along with their pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.

Sondors MetaCycle Action
Sondors MetaCycle
The Sondors MetaCycle riding in the city

The Sondors MetaCycle is an affordable electric motorcycle with a stylish design and features such as a low seat height and weight. It has a range of 60 miles, making it suitable for daily commuting. Although the brakes and rear shock are not the best, the affordable price tag makes up for it.

Pros

  • A unique, head-turning style
  • Great value for the price
  • Fast charging speeds

Cons

  • Brakes may feel inadequate
  • Suspension isn’t the most comfortable
  • The seat is hard and not easily removable

This Sci-Fi-Inspired Motorcycle Will Leave You Speechless With Its Monocoque Design

Super Soco TC

Super Soco TC
Super Soco TC
Couple sitting on motorcycle in urban area

The Super Soco TC is a retro-styled electric motorcycle that is well-suited for city commuting. It has a top speed of 75 mph and offers a range of up to 78 miles with the dual battery setup. The TC comes with features such as LED lights, an anti-theft alarm, keyless ignition, and a semi-digital instrument cluster. However, it is not available in the U.S.

Pros

  • The overall build quality is impressive
  • Agile and easy to maneuver through the city
  • Low seat height, suitable for shorter riders

Cons

  • The relatively thin dealership network
  • Braking may be inconsistent
  • Not available in the U.S.

Pursang E-Tracker

Pursang E-Tracker
Pursang E-Tracker
Motorcycle standing in empty room

The Pursang E-Tracker is a flat-track-inspired electric motorcycle with a stylish design. It features a tubular chrome-moly tubed frame and carbon-fiber bodywork. The E-Tracker has a range of 74 miles and a full-color TFT display that shows speed, range, riding mode, and battery life. It is available in Europe for approximately $10,052.

Pros

  • The timeless retro-modern look
  • Feels refined
  • Carbon fiber body panels

Cons

  • Long charging time
  • No established dealership in the mainland USA
  • Comes at a premium cost

Fuell Fllow

Fuell Fllow
Fuell Fllow
Front three-quarters shot of a Fuell Fllow

The Fuell Fllow is a powerful naked electric motorcycle with a peak power of 200 horsepower and a top speed of 170 mph. It has a claimed range of 146 miles and comes with unique Shift technology that allows riders to adjust the handlebar and footpeg position on the fly. The Fllow also features 360-degree cameras to warn riders about potentially dangerous objects and vehicles.

Pros

  • Impressive performance numbers
  • Adjustable handlebar and peg positions
  • 360-degree cameras for safety

Cons

  • Some parts may lack quality
  • Expensive price tag
  • Curb weight not confirmed

Cake Kalk&

Cake Kalk Motorcycle
Cake Kalk&
Rider in white suit, riding motorcycle in tunnel

The Cake Kalk& is an electric motorcycle with a unique design and a focus on sustainability. It is made from recycled materials and offers a range of 120 miles. The Kalk& is equipped with high-grade hardware and provides an easy and simple riding experience.

Pros

  • High-grade hardware
  • Easy to maneuver and ride
  • Well-rounded fit and finish

Cons

  • Pricey
  • Availability may be limited
  • Difficult to find parts in case of trouble

LiveWire Del Mar S2

Livewire Del Mar
Livewire Del Mar
Side profile shot of a Livewire Del Mar

The LiveWire Del Mar is an electric motorcycle designed for urban commuting. It offers a power output of 80 horsepower and a range of 110 miles in the city. The Del Mar is expected to arrive in showrooms by the latter part of 2023. It features modern-day amenities such as ride modes, TFT instrumentation, smartphone connectivity, LED lighting, and stability control from Bosch.

Pros

  • Great handling characteristics
  • Well-designed
  • Decent power for city riding

Cons

Budget Testarossa? The Chevy C4 Corvette With A Twist

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.

RELATED: This 1991 Chevrolet Corvette C4 ZR-1 Is An Attainable American Icon Worth Checking Out

A C4 Corvette With Ferrari Aspirations

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.

Blue 1984 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe
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.

Highlights And Features:

  • 42,800 miles on the odometer
  • 5.7-liter V-8 developing 205 horsepower/290 pound-feet torque
  • Four-speed automatic transmission
  • 17-inch alloy wheels
  • Pop-up headlights
  • American Custom Industries body kit
  • Muffler delete
  • Sony head unit
  • Light blue exterior paint with black interior

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.

RELATED: Here’s Why This Is The Strangest C4 Chevy Corvette You’ll Ever See

Is This Custom C4 Corvette Cool Or Sacrilege?

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.

RELATED: 1984-1996 Chevrolet Corvette (C4) Performance, Price, And Photos

The C4 Corvette Was An Icon On Its Own

Black Chevrolet Corvette C4
Mecum
A front 3/4 shot of a 1984 Chevrolet Corvette C4

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.

RELATED: 10 Things That Make The Chevrolet Corvette America’s Most Iconic Sports Car

The Ferrari Testarossa: An Iconic Look

Ferrari Testarossa
Darren Brode / Shutterstock
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.

Under the skin: Why cars will become more like smartphones

One of the latest buzz phrases in the car industry is ‘the software-defined car’. While some may not like the sound of it, there are already complaints on social media about buggy car software.

However, cars have been using specialised computers, known as electronic control units (ECUs), since the late 1970s. These ECUs are essentially boxes of hardware running computer code to control various functions in the car.

The first major use of ECUs in cars was to control engines, which greatly improved efficiency and power. Over time, ECUs found their way into other systems such as ABS, lighting, stability control, and transmission controls. Modern cars are filled with ECUs, with some vehicles having nearly 100 of them.

An advantage of using multiple ECUs was reducing the amount of wiring needed, which made cars more complex. Instead of individually wiring each electrical device and its associated components, the introduction of the controller area network (CAN) allowed each ECU to control its own group of equipment using only a few signal wires.

However, with the increasing complexity of cars, a more sophisticated solution is needed. This is where the concept of the software-defined car comes into play. For instance, Renault plans to update its cars throughout their lifetime using a centralised architecture, similar to how smartphones receive updates.

This shift involves going beyond using electronic components to operate car features and allowing them to evolve over time. Renault’s approach includes preventative maintenance, personalisation of interior features, battery charge management, infotainment, and more.

This transition also brings about a significant physical change. Instead of the 60-80 ECUs found in Renault’s cars today, there will be a central computer with excess power and flexibility. This way, it can accommodate future upgrades and handle vast amounts of data.

Renault is collaborating with Qualcomm and Google to develop the CAR OS for this software-defined approach.

Renault is just one example, as the rest of the industry is also moving in this direction. ZF Friedrichshafen, a major supplier and innovator, has created Cubix control software to coordinate and control all chassis actuators directly, including brakes, steer-by-wire, and suspension systems.

2023 SUZUKI DR650S: DUAL-SPORT TEST

We have mixed feelings about the Suzuki DR650S. On one hand, we appreciate the fact that Suzuki has kept this model in production for over 32 years. On the other hand, it is still a motorcycle that is essentially 32 years old. However, despite its age, the DR650S has its merits and continues to be offered in the market.

The Suzuki DR650S is a big, air-cooled single-cylinder motorcycle with a carburetor. It is priced at $6999, which is the same as a Yamaha YZ125 motocross bike. What’s interesting is that the DR650S is still manufactured in Japan, while most other motorcycles in this price range are made in countries like China, Thailand, or Vietnam. As a result, the DR650S stands out as one of the last remaining models of its kind.

LOOKING BACK
The roots of the DR650S can be traced back to the 1978 Suzuki SP370, the company’s first four-stroke off-road bike. Over the years, it evolved into the present-day DR650S with various updates and improvements. In 1993, the electric starter was introduced, which was a major step forward. Today’s DR650S remains fundamentally similar to the initial version. In the late 90s, the DR650S was considered one of the top dual-sport bikes in terms of performance and handling.

middle content two stroke

THE DR TODAY
Despite the DR650S remaining largely unchanged, its role in the market has shifted. It is no longer considered a high-performance bike or a traditional dual-sport model. Instead, it serves as an entry-level adventure bike. The bike’s design and layout reflect its 90s heritage, with a thick seat and handlebars that sweep back towards the rider. Vibration is minimal thanks to rubber-mounted footpegs and handlebar weights. The power delivery of the big single-cylinder engine is torque-oriented, offering a distinct and satisfying acceleration experience. While it lacks the rev-happy nature of modern bikes, the DR650S produces more torque than many of its rivals. Its tall gearing allows for cruising at low RPM, making it comfortable for long rides on dirt roads. However, the bike may struggle on fast trails due to its street-oriented tires and limited suspension adjustability. It is also relatively heavy compared to its competitors.

The 2023 Suzuki DR650S is still around. It sells for $6999.

WHERE WE STARTED
The Kawasaki KLR650 remains the closest competitor to the Suzuki DR650S. While the KLR650 has received updates and now features fuel injection, the DR650S remains unchanged in terms of its carbureted engine. Fuel injection is seen as an added complexity and expense in a bike like the DR650S. Despite its age, the DR650S still finds its place in the modern world and has an enduring appeal. We believe it deserves to continue being produced indefinitely.