Rapid evolution within the automotive industry is simultaneously a nursery for new technology and a graveyard for obsolete equipment. Case in point: as we await the arrival of true self-driving cars with advanced systems, other features that were once standard are gradually disappearing.
Such is the case with the manual gearbox. This multi-speed transmission system, in which shifting requires the driver to manually select gears, is becoming a rarity in many markets. And it’s not just North America, where automatic transmissions have long dominated the motoring landscape. Information from JATO Dynamics shows that this type of transmission is losing popularity everywhere.
Two-Pedal Europe
Europe is a great example of this transition. In 2000, almost all new cars registered were equipped with a manual transmission. Specifically, the percentage was 89 percent and some countries such as Italy, France, Spain, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, and Portugal exceeded 95 percent. Norway and Switzerland were exceptions, where approximately 25 percent of new cars were automatics.
This percentage remained high for a few years until different types of automatic transmissions reached the market. In 2017, the overall manual take rate had fallen to 78 percent of new cars, and it’s plunged since then. In 2022 it was down to 34 percent, and through the first half of this year, we’re sitting at 32 percent.
There are several reasons for this. Drivers are more aware of the advantages and ease of operation of an automatic. Traffic jams are getting worse in many cities. And the price gap between manuals and automatics is shrinking. The influx of EVs, led globally by Tesla, certainly adds to this. These vehicles don’t need transmissions with multiple gears to use power from torque-happy electric motors, be it automatic or manual.
Auto In North America
JATO data shows that in the year 2010, only 6 percent of new light-duty vehicles sold in the United States featured a manual transmission. This percentage dropped to 4 percent in 2019, then 2 percent in 2020. For the last two years, the manual gearbox has barely registered in the US market with take rates of just 1 percent. And this year it’s even less, showing just 0.9 percent through the first half of 2023.
Not Dead Yet
On the other hand, cars with manual transmissions remain a valid choice for buyers in emerging economies. Markets such as Latin America or South Africa still see a sizable portion of new vehicles registered with row-your-own gearboxes, accounting for more than 30 percent of sales. Although the price gap between manuals and automatics has decreased dramatically over the past 20 years, it is still an important aspect to consider among low-income consumers.
Will the eventual arrival of affordable electric cars change the situation? Seeing the significant drop in manual-equipped cars in China – where lower-priced EVs are gaining popularity – certainly paints a bleak picture for those who enjoy three-pedal driving.
The author of the article, Felipe Munoz, is an Automotive Industry Specialist at JATO Dynamics.
The 2000s have been a decade of fast technological developments, one the place flip telephones changed into smartphones and laptops have been lastly making some good points on desktop computer systems. It was, arguably, the last decade of the Fast And Furious franchise, and one might even argue that it was the rise of tuning tradition throughout many of the United States. Above all, although, it was the last decade of the digital rebellion in our sporty automobiles. The first flappy paddles discovered their approach into up-market supercars, and even the extra mundane equipment got here with a number of digital aids to maintain them in line.
Some loved having their abilities behind the wheel complimented by the digital suspension, self-leveling dampers, four-wheeled steering, and different intelligent robotics that made driving quick a bit simpler. The purists, nonetheless, didn’t just like the rise of digital aids and stored looking for these sports cars that stored true to the old-school setup of three pedals, a stick, and no assist apart from that given by your senses. The automobiles we’ll focus on right here at this time supply the right mix of rawness and digital development from a time once we didn’t hear doomsday preachers asserting the top of the guide transmission.
Last Update October 31, 2023: To preserve issues contemporary on this incredible checklist of among the greatest sports activities automobiles from the 2000s, we have now eliminated one mannequin and added 10 extra.
We have gathered info relating to present, used-market costs for the next fashions from specialised web sites like Cargurus.com, Cars.com, and CarEdge.com. Models have been organized from most costly to the most cost effective.
Porsche 911 is an all-time traditional within the sports activities automobile style, whatever the era. It’s secure to say that, over time, Porsche engineers have mastered the artwork of placing the engine within the trunk. For many the 997 era is the final old-school Porsche 911 (if water-cooled 911s might be thought of old-school).
2004-2013 Porsche 911 Carrera Specs
Engine
3.6-liter flat-6
Transmission
6-speed guide/ 5-speed auto/ 7-speed PDK
Drivetrain
RR, RWD/AWD
Power
325-345 hp
Torque
273 lb-ft
0-60 MPH
4.8-4.2 seconds
$30,000 to $60,000 can get you a Porsche 997, however it’s a must to restrict your self to the Carrera fashions as among the high-performance variants like the GT3, GT2, and Turbo command six-figure value tags. Still, with 325 to 408 horsepower, the Porsche 997 Carrera lineup provides respectable sufficient efficiency, with 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) occurring in as little as 4.2 seconds. The 2008 facelift replaces the five-speed Tiptronic automated with a seven-speed PDK. Your entry-level value level for a good instance of the 997 era will set you again a minimum of $26,000. Pristine 997.2 examples can simply go for over $40,000.
192004-2011 Mercedes SLK55 AMG
From $16,950
Bring-A-Trailer
While many would argue that the Porsche Boxster is the perfect compact sports activities automobile, there are worthy alternate options to the mid-engine Porsche. One of them is the R171 Mercedes SLK55 AMG. The German pocket rocket is a really totally different animal than the mid-engine Porsche. If the Boxster is a scalpel, the SLK55 AMG is a sledgehammer. This psychotic pocket rocket packs an enormous V-8 in a compact physique and sends energy completely to the rear wheel.
2004-2011 Mercede SLK55 AMG Specs
Engine
5.4-liter V-8
Transmission
7-speed auto
Drivetrain
Front-engine, RWD
Power
355 hp
Torque
376 lb-ft
0-60 MPH
4.7 seconds
When you step on the throttle, you higher maintain on as a result of the twitchy roadster has an excessive urge for food for rear tires. On the opposite hand, powering the SLK55 is the tried-and-tested M113 V-8, a smaller model of which powered the W124 Mercedes 500E – one in every of Porsche’s more unconventional partnerships. So, small dimension, massive engine, and tire-shredding efficiency. What’s to not like?
182005-2013 Chevrolet C6 Corvette
From $13,950
Chevrolet
The C6 Corvette was pretty revolutionary for the nameplate. Chevy launched the C6 Corvette in 2005, however growth began in 2000. The outcome was a automobile that introduced many firsts. The most vital change that got here with the C6 is the truth that it was practically 5 inches shorter than the C5 Corvette, but it rode on an extended wheelbase – one thing that led to drastically improved dealing with. This along with the updated suspension also led to a ride quality never before seen in a Corvette.
2005-2013 Chevrolet Corvette C6 Specs
Engine
6.0-6.2-liter V-8
Transmission
6-speed guide/ 4 and 6-speed auto
Drivetrain
FR, RWD
Power
400-430 hp
Torque
400-424 lb-ft
0-60 MPH
4.5-4.0 seconds
Early C6 Corvettes relied on a 6.0-liter, LS2 V-8 pushing out 400 horsepower and 400 pound-feet (542 Nm). The mid-cycle refresh changed that with a 6.2-liter LS3 that made 430 horsepower and 424 pound-feet (575 Nm), prompting a 4.0-second 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) dash. You may select between soft-top convertible, Targa, and hardtop coupe physique types. Today, respectable examples of the C6 Corvette might be had for $27,000.
The C5 Corvette will not be as refined as its successor, the C6, however the C5 Z06 is every bit the modern, American traditional. Even non-Z06 C5 Corvettes featured a revolutionary for the time, hydro-formed, metal chassis, which resulted in 5 instances the structural rigidity of the outgoing C4 Corvette. At 3,119 kilos (1,415 kg), the C5 Z06 can also be featherweight, in comparison with most of its friends. The LS6 V-8 could characteristic the identical displacement because the LS1 V-8, but it surely packs 60 extra horsepower.
2001-2004 Chevrolet Corvette C5 Z06 Specs
Engine
5.7-liter V-8
Transmission
6-speed guide
Drivetrain
FR, RWD
Power
405 hp
Torque
400 lb-ft
0-60 MPH
3.9 seconds
At the identical time, a Tremec T56 guide, routes energy to the rear, permitting for a quarter-mile time of 11.9 seconds at 116 mph (187 km/h). The C5 Corvette, particularly when geared up with a guide, is a stout platform, however low cost examples can disguise costly issues. You can discover good examples from round $23,500, and they don’t seem to be going to get any cheaper.
162007-2015 Mercedes C63 AMG
From $12,495
Mercedes-Benz
When it involves German efficiency automobiles, the Mercedes C63 AMG is likely one of the hottest fashions. Thanks to being the model’s most compact, rear-wheel-drive sedan and that includes a handcrafted, V-8 engine, the C63 AMG is, typically, known as a German Muscle automobile. The M156 engine is likely one of the most iconic, modern-day, Mercedes V-8s. It’s the primary V-8 utterly developed by AMG and Mercedes’ final naturally-aspirated V-8. The 204-series C63 has future classics written all over it and is on the market in a sedan (W204), coupe (C204), and wagon (S204).
2007–2015 Mercedes C63 AMG Specs
Engine
6.2-liter V-8
Transmission
7-speed auto
Drivetrain
FR, RWD
Power
450-487 hp
Torque
442 lb-ft
0-60 MPH
4.2 seconds
The M156 is orgasmic and, typically, bulletproof, however provided that upkeep is religiously stored up with. Even the bottom C63 AMG packs 450 horsepower. Beware that the C63 additionally has an urge for food for rear tires, matched solely by its thirst for premium gas. The most cost-effective C63 AMG we discovered prices $12,495, however if you would like to keep away from potential complications, greatest put together round double that.
152008-2016 Audi S5
From $12,000
OSX, Public area, by way of Wikimedia Commons
The first-generation Audi S5 is a surprisingly underrated proposition. While not as sharp because the BMW M3 or as ludicrous because the C63 AMG from the identical period, early S5 fashions might nonetheless get you a naturally aspirated V-8, paired with a six-speed guide, in case you go for the coupe. You additionally get Quattro all-wheel drive as customary and in these days, the S5 was a bit extra snug than its German opponents BMW and Mercedes. Facelift fashions forgo the choice of a guide transmission and substitute the six-speed automated for a DSG unit.
2008-2011 Audi S5 Specs
Engine
4.2-liter V-8
Transmission
6-speed guide/6-speed auto
Drivetrain
Front-engine, AWD
Power
354 hp
Torque
324 lb-ft
0-60 MPH
4.8 seconds
The V-8 can also be changed by a supercharged V-6, which additionally occurs to be one in every of the most underrated European V-6 engines. According to Copilotsearch, models from 2013 to 2015 are greatest averted as they both pack much less efficiency or are extra problematic. As for the V-8 fashions are constituted of 2008 to 2011, and other than occasional issues with the timing-chain tensioner, they’re pretty dependable engines.
The BMW E85 is a direct descendant of the BMW Z3, and prefer it, it was a parts-bin particular. Despite that, it is a enjoyable various to the Mazda MX-5 and because of potent inline-six engines, it packs loads of efficiency. This is most true for the Z4 M, which shares the E46 M3’s S54 inline-six. If you’re keen to accept the much less sensible, two-seater structure, the Z4 M gives barely extra efficiency than its greater brother. The solely transmission choice for the Z4 M is a guide.
2006-2008 BMW Z4 M E85 Specs
Engine
3.2-liter inline-6
Transmission
6-speed guide
Drivetrain
FR, RWD
Power
338-343 hp
Torque
269 lb-ft
0-60 MPH
4.8 seconds
The Z4 M Coupe is far rarer and has already been appreciated, however the roadster is still within the budget of most car enthusiasts. The S54 is sort of a Swiss watch and requires meticulous upkeep to work correctly, in any other case, issues can shortly get costly. VANOS, water pump, and rod bearings are the principle issues to look out for as they are often, doubtlessly, detrimental to your M-experience.
132004-2009 Honda S2000
From $11,950
Honda
The S2000 was Honda’s version of the Mazda MX-5 for these searching for a extra visceral driving expertise and extra efficiency. The philosophy was the identical – a light-weight, compact roadster, and a naturally-aspirated four-banger. Only on this case, the four-banger was an F20C unit that revved to 9,000 RPM. When it got here out in 1998, it had the best particular output of any naturally aspirated inline-four, producing 240 horsepower at 8,300 RPM and 153 pound-feet (208 Nm) at 7,500 RPM.
2004-2009 Honda S2000 Specs
Engine
2.0 and a pair of.2-liter inline-4
Transmission
6-speed guide
Drivetrain
Front-mid-engine, RWD
Power
242 hp
Torque
163 lb-ft
0-60 MPH
5.8 seconds
From 2004 to 2009, the AP2 facelift was on supply. It got here with less-punishing suspension and a 2.2-liter model of the identical engine that made 242 horsepower and 163 pound-feet (221 Nm). The bigger, F22 engine was accessible just for Japan and North America whereas EU-spec automobiles continued to be provided with the 9,000-RPM, F20 engine. The 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) took 5.8 seconds. The S2000 is a JDM icon so, if you need instance, it’s a must to spend a minimum of $24,000.
When you consider luxurious sports activities coupe, there’s a good probability you don’t assume Honda Accord. In actuality, the Japanese mannequin has had a two-door model since 1994. We are speaking in regards to the mannequin based mostly on the eighth-generation Accord, and admittedly, if you’re searching for Japanese reliability and luxurious in a two-door coupe that you simply plan on utilizing every day, it doesn’t get significantly better than this. While high-mileage examples are cheaper, low-mileage examples are solely about $2,500 dearer, on common.
2008-2012 Honda Accord Coupe Specs
Engine
3.5-liter V-6
Transmission
6-speed guide/5-speed auto
Drivetrain
Front-engine, FWD
Power
271 hp
Torque
251 lb-ft
0-60 MPH
5.9 seconds
Both the K24 and J35 engines will final for a lot of miles in case you handle them, however if you need extra efficiency, attempt to discover a V-6 guide. While typically dependable, the Accord can endure from extreme oil consumption because the miles rack up. This is particularly true for the V-6 engine’s cylinder deactivation system, which is understood to trigger hassle.
The Nissan 370Z was produced from 2009 to 2020, which suggests the value varies rather a lot relying on the mannequin yr. Ideally, you need one which’s 2015 or newer as these fashions are extra refined and many of the gremlins have been sorted out. But whatever the yr, the Nissan 370Z is a stout platform that has stood the test of time… and hooning.
2009-2020 Nissan 370Z Specs
Engine
3.7-liter V-6
Transmission
6-speed guide/ 7-speed auto
Drivetrain
FR, RWD
Power
326-332 hp
Torque
270 lb-ft
0-60 MPH
5.3-4.7 seconds
The VQ37 engine is a stout platform and all publications have given the 370Z a really high-reliability ranking of 4.3/5, however watch out for examples which have been modified or have shady historical past, as these might be potential cash pits. Although the Z34 chassis can hint its roots to 2001, the 370Z is a really balanced automobile, with the correct amount of oversteer traits. Cheap examples are plentiful, however instance with comparatively low mileage will set you again round $19,500.
Arguably the most popular generation of BMW’s M3, the E46 was provided in each coupe and cabriolet kind and delivered “Joy Of Driving” by the buckets. By the early 2000s, an inline-six engine had grow to be a staple in M-0cars, definitely within the M3. Moreover, the E46’s high-revving, 3.2-liter, S54 engine is the final naturally-aspirated straight-six put in an M-car. With 338 to 360 horsepower, relying available on the market and model, the BMW M3 E46 might rocket to 60 mph (97 km/h) in 5.0 to 4.7 seconds.
2000-2006 BMW M3 E46 Specs
Engine
3.2-liter inline-6
Transmission
6-speed guide/ 6-speed SMG
Drivetrain
FR, RWD
Power
33-3608 hp
Torque
269-273 lb-ft
0-60 MPH
5.0-4.7 seconds
A six-speed guide was customary, however the range-topping M3 CSL solely received the SMG, robotized guide. Luckily, conversions can be found. The E46 M3 is on the market in each coupe and convertible. $13,000 can get you one, however watch out for gremlins. A pristine instance with historical past will set you again a minimum of $30,000.
92001-2011 Mercedes SL500
From: $9,500
Bring A Trailer
The R230-generation Mercedes SL is the one to introduce the enduring nameplate to trendy instances. The a lot sleeker design gave the SL sports activities automobile vibes, though its predominant objective was nonetheless being a succesful, long-distance cruiser. In the SL500 kind, the M113 V-8 engine was carried over from the old, but desired SL500 R129, albeit modernized. From 2006 onwards, the SL500 receives the newer, M273 V-8, additionally identified to be fairly strong, albeit not as a lot because the M113. The R230 SL500 can also be thought of one of many final Mercedes fashions to be correctly constructed to final.
2001-2011 Mercedes SL500 Specs
Engine
5.0-5.5-liter V-8
Transmission
5-speed auto/ 7-speed DCT
Drivetrain
Front-engine, RWD
Power
306-388 hp
Torque
339-390 lb-ft
0-60 MPH
6.0-5.1 seconds
With that mentioned, there are nonetheless a couple of issues to search for. The varied roof and trunk seals might let water into the boot, inflicting havoc with varied electrical methods. Pre-2004 fashions are pre-galvanized so rust might be a problem with these. Aside from that, you may get a contemporary, German traditional with an iconic title that if taken care of, can stand the take a look at of time.
The fifth era or S197 of the Ford Mustang got here at a time when the category that was outlined by the Mustang approach again in 1964 was wanting like it might bloom once more. Ford rode this wave simply as the unique was turning 40 and unveiled a retro-looking Mustang to interchange the divisive SN95. It harkened again to the previous with out wanting dated from beginning.
2005-2014 Ford Mustang GT Specs
Engine
4.6-liter V-8 and 5.0-liter V-8
Transmission
5 and 6-speed guide/ 5 and 6-speed auto
Drivetrain
FR, RWD
Power
300-420 hp
Torque
320-390 lb-ft
0-60 MPH
5.6-4.3 seconds
What we’re recommending, although, is the GT model with its 4.6-liter, SOHC, modular V-8 which, by way of its five-speed guide transmission, places 300 horsepower to the bottom. The 5.0-liter Coyote V-8 got here with the 2010 replace, as did the six-speed guide gearbox and much more efficiency. You’re costs within the area of $9,000 for an early GT that has been well-maintained, and as much as $24,000 for a pristine late S197 GT mannequin.
The 987 Porsche Boxster was launched within the mid-2000s and reaped the rewards of the company-saving authentic whereas constructing on its components. Following the road of the 997 generation of the 911, the Boxster additionally misplaced the “fried egg” headlights that enraged followers of the traditional round design of earlier generations. Most of the 986’s kinks have been handled within the 987, making for a barely extra trouble-free possession expertise.
2005-2012 Porsche 987 Boxster Specs
Engine
2.7 and a pair of.9-liter flat-6
Transmission
6-speed guide/ 5-speed auto/ 7-speed PDK
Drivetrain
Mid-engine, RWD
Power
240-255 hp
Torque
199-214 lb-ft
0-60 MPH
6.8-5.5 seconds
The notorious, IMS bearing concern was nonetheless current, albeit on a a lot smaller proportion of autos. Even the bottom, 2.7-liter flat-six places out a decent 240 horsepower, however for the perfect outcomes, it’s a must to keep away from the five-speed Tiptronic. The 2009 facelift is the primary mid-engine Porsche to profit from the PDK transmission. An excellent, base-model Porsche 987 Boxster might be had for $14,000.
The final Pontiac GTO was, finally, a automobile that bought in poor numbers and had not one of the uncooked masculinity of the unique muscle car. Still, simply because it was, a rebadged Holden Monaro from Australia does not imply it lacks correct, Muscle automobile credentials. The Aussies have their fair proportion of V-8-powered efficiency machines and the Monaro/GTO already had a 5.7-liter, LS1 V-8 with 350 horsepower. In 2005, the GTO upgraded to the 6.0-liter, LS2 V-8, featured in early C6 Corvettes.
2004-2006 Pontiac GTO Specs
Engine
5.7 and 6.0-liter V-8
Transmission
6-speed guide/ 4-speed auto
Drivetrain
FR, RWD
Power
350-400 hp
Torque
360-400 lb-ft
0-60 MPH
5.5-4.4 seconds
This meant 405 horsepower and 400 pound-feet (542 Nm), which was sufficient for a 4.4-second 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) time if geared up with the six-speed guide. The near-C6 Corvette efficiency was wrapped in a 2+2 coupe bundle and the perfect half is you’ll be able to nonetheless get one for $15,000 to $25,000.
The Nissan 350Z was a bit of a savior for the Nissan brand. When the 350Z launched in 2002, the U.S. market hadn’t seen a Z automobile in six years. Like its predecessors, the 350Z was a true-to-life sports activities coupe, and on the time it provided a much bigger bang in your buck than automobiles just like the Mazda Miata or Toyota MR2.
2002-2009 Nissan 350Z Specs
Engine
3.5-liter V-6
Transmission
6-speed guide/ 5-speed auto
Drivetrain
FR, RWD
Power
280-313 hp
Torque
260-264 lb-ft
0-60 MPH
6.1-5.4 seconds
The centerpiece of the Nissan 350Z was its 3.5-liter V-6, which developed 287 horsepower and 274 pound-feet (371 Nm). Facelift fashions received the VQ35HR model of the engine, which revved to 7,500 RPM and produced 313 horsepower. Facelift fashions are additionally far more trouble-free, particularly about oil consumption. The 350Z was able to 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) in 5.4 seconds on to a prime pace of 156 mph (252 km/h). You can discover early examples for as little as $9,000 with well-maintained and low-mileage fashions nonetheless promoting for round $25,000.
42005-2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata NC
From $5,950
Bring A Trailer
Mazda Miata is at all times the answer for reasonably priced, compact, sports activities automobiles. Although there are alternate options within the type of the Toyota 86, any of the 4 generations of the MX-5 Miata will do the job. The third era appears to be the black sheep of the household as it’s the largest of all Miata generations. With that mentioned, it is also price noting that, earlier than the Miata ND facelift, the NC was the most powerful MX-5 you could get.
2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata Specs
Engine
2.0-liter inline-4
Transmission
5-speed guide/ 6-speed auto
Drivetrain
FR, RWD
Power
161 hp
Torque
138 lb-ft
0-60 MPH
7.2 seconds
In a 2.0-liter guise, the MX-5 packs as much as 167 horsepower and 139 pound-feet (188 Nm). The NC might weigh as a lot as 2,568 kilos (1,165 kg), which was a bit heavy for a Miat, however nonetheless gentle sufficient to offer extra highly effective sports activities automobiles a run for his or her cash. Because it is the least desired of all MX-5 generations, a good NC Miata might be had for $9,000.
32009-2016 Hyundai Genesis Coupe
From $5,895
Hyundai
The first, correct sports activities automobile from South Korea as soon as bore the Genesis name (now Hyundai’s luxury brand), which can also be dirt-cheap, however there are some things you could have to concentrate on. First off, construct high quality, particularly on early fashions meant for the North American market, is not the perfect, and most plastics will remind you of their existence by way of varied squeaks and rattles. The engines are, typically, dependable, so long as they’re correctly maintained. Both, the two.0 turbo-four and three.8-liter V-6 are very specific about engine oil so, be sure to are utilizing the proper specification to keep away from catastrophic failure.
2010-2016 Hyundai Genesis Coupe Specs
Engine
2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4/ 3.8-liter V-6
Transmission
6-speed guide/ 5,6, and 8-speed auto
Drivetrain
FR, RWD
Power
210-348 hp
Torque
220-295 lb-ft
0-60 MPH
7.5-4.8 seconds
If all is true, these engines can final a very long time with out critical points. The Genesis Coupe is, typically, in contrast with the Nissan 370Z, however Infiniti’s G37/Q60 is a extra acceptable comparability since each automobiles are supposed to be a steadiness between a long-distance cruiser and a sports activities coupe. Depending on the engine and mannequin yr, good examples with low mileage might be had from round $9,500. Early Hyundai Genesis Coupes, geared up with the two.0-liter turbo-four and a five-speed automated, supply the least efficiency.
Toyota’s reply to the Acura Integra Type-R within the Nineteen Nineties was the Celica GT-S. Like the Acura, Toyota’s compact sports activities automobile options economy-car underpinnings, albeit modified to suit the automobile’s sporty aspirations. In GT-S guise, the Celica trades its 1ZZ inline-four for a 2ZZ unit with the identical displacement. The key distinction is the Yamaha head, which permits the engine to rev to eight,500 RPM, earlier than gas cut-off. Euro-spec fashions, dubbed Celica TS, characteristic Lotus software program, including 10 extra horsepower.
1999–2005 Toyota Celica GT-S Specs
Engine
1.8-liter inline-4
Transmission
6-speed guide/4-speed auto
Drivetrain
Front-engine, FWD
Power
180 hp
Torque
133 lb-ft
0-60 MPH
6.6 seconds
These little Toyotas are nonetheless comparatively underrated, which is why they’re nowhere close to the value of an Integra Type-R/ Type-S from the identical interval. The Celica GT-S is reasonable to run, though pre-facelift fashions can endure from oil hunger because of the lack of a baffled oil pan and the inventory oil pump not being ample.
11999-2007 Toyota MR2 Spyder
From $3,990
Mecum
The final generation of the Toyota MR2 had the unenviable activity of selecting up the torch from its SW20 predecessor. Gone have been the turbocharged, 3S-GTE engines, and as a substitute a 1.8-liter 1ZZ-FED was tasked with propulsion. With simply 138 horsepower and 127 pound-feet (170 Nm), efficiency aspirations weren’t excessive, however the W30 MR2 weighed simply 2,195 kilos (996 kg).
1999–2007 Toyota MR2 Spyder Specs
Engine
1.8-liter inline-4
Transmission
5-speed guide
Drivetrain
Mid-engine, RWD
Power
138 hp
Torque
127 lb-ft
0-60 MPH
7.5 seconds
With a close-ratio, five-speed guide, the compact Toyota sports activities automobile might attain 60 mph (97 km/h) in 7.5 seconds. There was a six-speed sequential transmission, which took 1.2 seconds longer to 60 mph. The W30 Toyota MR2 can greatest be described as a cut-price Lotus Elise. Depeding on situation and mileage, you’ll be able to choose one up for $4,000 to $11,000.
In recent years, Ford has made a strong commitment to embracing autonomous driving technology with their hands-free driving system called BlueCruise. BlueCruise aims to set a new standard in the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) arena by using a combination of sensors and cameras to monitor the vehicle’s surroundings, maintain its position in the lane, and make automatic lane changes and speed adjustments.
BlueCruise utilizes a variety of sensors and cameras including a radar sensor to detect vehicles and objects in the road, a lidar sensor to create a 3D map of the road, a front-facing camera to monitor the driver’s eyes and head position, and four cameras mounted on the vehicle’s corners to provide a 360-degree view of the surroundings. This comprehensive view of the vehicle’s surroundings allows BlueCruise to make informed decisions and avoid hazards.
To activate the BlueCruise system, users need to register their vehicle using the FordPass app and enable the Connect Modem. Once activated, the system can be accessed through the settings menu and adaptive cruise control section. BlueCruise is currently available on select Ford models including the Expedition, F-150, F-150 Lightning, and Mustang Mach-E SUV.
Consumer Reports’ testing of the BlueCruise system has affirmed its commendable performance and effectiveness in maintaining driver engagement. The system has been continuously refined and upgraded through over-the-air updates to enhance its features and address any shortcomings.
When comparing BlueCruise to Tesla’s Autopilot, it’s important to note that Tesla’s Autopilot is integrated into their entire fleet without additional charges, while BlueCruise requires a fee for access. Both systems have their strengths and weaknesses, with Autopilot excelling in lane centering and responsiveness, and BlueCruise standing out in adaptability and quick response to changing road conditions. Notably, BlueCruise prioritizes safety with its Direct Driver Monitoring System that requires continuous driver engagement.
Hands-free driving systems like BlueCruise have faced scrutiny from organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) due to safety concerns. However, these systems are continuously evolving, with lessons learned from real-world experiences leading to improvements in road safety and driving convenience.
Overall, Ford’s BlueCruise system represents a significant advancement in autonomous driving technology, with a focus on safety and innovative features. The debate between BlueCruise and Tesla’s Autopilot highlights the nuances in the ADAS landscape, with cost, accessibility, and safety being important factors. As the industry continues to evolve, hands-free driving technology like BlueCruise will play a key role in creating safer and more convenient driving experiences.
Electric vehicles (EVs) have become famous for their rapid acceleration, thanks to the absence of a gearbox or a torque build-up. The Tesla Model S, in particular, has taken advantage of this feature in its marketing campaigns. Social media platforms are filled with reaction videos of people enjoying the Model S’s impressive 0-60 mph times, outpacing even some supercars. However, manufacturers are now focusing on making their EVs fast in a straight line. But why is this trend so strong, and does it really make for a great EV?
The specifications and prices mentioned in this article are sourced from respective automakers.
Related: 10 Uncomfortable Truths About Owning An Electric Car
EVs Are Starting To Be One-Trick, Rapidly-Accelerating Ponies
It is nearly impossible to find an advertisement for an EV that doesn’t boast about its quick 0-60 mph time, especially in the performance EV segment. These EVs aim to outshine their internal combustion engine (ICE) counterparts. Kia, for instance, advertised its EV6 GT by pitting it against six-figure supercars and hypercars, resulting in the EV6 GT outperforming vehicles like the Mercedes-AMG GT, Lamborghini Urus, Porsche 911 Targa, and McLaren 570S Spider. Although the Kia initially beat the McLaren, the supercar caught up and edged out the EV in the end. This commercial demonstrates that EVs can keep up or even outperform sleek and powerful vehicles, highlighting their capabilities for emotional performance.
Related: 10 Downsides To Owning An Electric Vehicle
Quick Acceleration For Quick Marketing
While this marketing strategy is effective in showcasing the EV6 GT’s capabilities, it doesn’t mean that the EV6 GT is a better car than the supercars it was compared to. Underneath the rapid acceleration and sleek styling, many EVs, including the EV6 GT, are comfortable and practical vehicles designed for everyday use, rather than true sports cars or hot hatches. Their emphasis on acceleration masks their shortcomings in cornering capability, handling, and steering feel.
Related: 15 Disadvantages Of Electric Cars
EVs Also Need To Be Inherently Fun To Drive
In order for an EV to be truly great to drive, manufacturers should not solely focus on straight-line speed. Several brands have succeeded in creating fast EVs with great driving dynamics. The Porsche Taycan, for example, offers excellent steering feel, precise body control, and engaging power delivery with its two-speed gearbox. The Audi RS e-tron GT is similar to the Taycan in terms of driving experience. The Tesla Model S is also worth mentioning for its good steering feel and controlled body movements during cornering.
In the future, EVs need to be more than just marketing tools with fast acceleration. Manufacturers should focus on injecting passion and personality into these vehicles. As EV technology continues to evolve, automakers will learn to add tactility and excitement to what is currently a practical and comfortable mode of transportation.
Benelli, a motorcycle brand that is experiencing rapid growth, is part of the Qianjiang Group in China, with its origins tracing back to Italy. The company continuously introduces new models in the Chinese market, but one model has stood out in the global market, particularly in Italy: the new Benelli TRK702.
The Benelli TRK 702 has achieved an impressive milestone by registering over 1,000 motorcycles in the Italian market in just a little over a month since its debut. This success can be attributed to Benelli’s strategy of offering an affordable middleweight ADV at just 7,490 Euros (about $7,898 USD). This mirrors the approach that made its predecessor, the TRK 502 model, popular in the Italian ADV segment.
Speaking about the success of the new model, Gianni Monni, Benelli’s sales manager in Italy, stated, “We are proud of the extraordinary result that the new TRK 702 is obtaining on the Italian market, in just over a month more than a thousand examples have been registered and, if we consider that all this is happening at the end of the commercial season, the satisfaction is even bigger. In the coming months, we believe we can further increase this performance, not forgetting that all those who had the patience to wait for our model to arrive on the market are the true architects of this success.”
The Benelli TRK 702 features a 698cc parallel-twin engine with liquid-cooling and fuel-injection, offering impressive performance. It generates 75 horsepower at 8,750 rpm and 68.2 pound-feet of torque at 6,250 rpm.
The bike utilizes a frame design based on the smaller 502 model, incorporating a steel trellis structure that enhances stiffness and reduces weight for improved handling. Its suspension setup includes 50 mm inverted forks at the front with 5.5 inches of travel and a preload-adjustable mono-shock at the rear, offering 6.8 inches of travel for versatility across various terrains. Dual-channel ABS is equipped on the bike’s two 320 mm front disc brakes and a 260 mm rear disc brake, ensuring enhanced safety on the road.
Tesla has experienced unprecedented growth in the automotive industry over the past decade, making it the leading brand in the global electric vehicle market. With attractive and competitive cars introduced at the right time and in the right places, Tesla has become the go-to brand for electric cars.
However, with rapid success comes challenges. Here are the five main challenges that Tesla needs to address:
1. Localization
Increasing trade tensions between countries have led to a trend of localization in the automotive industry. This means it’s becoming harder to import cars due to regulations aimed at protecting local industries. Car manufacturers are now focusing on increasing local production, expanding supplier clusters, and reducing dependency on foreign components.
Tesla currently operates manufacturing sites in the United States, China, and Germany. To expand its presence in emerging markets, Tesla will need to establish itself in more countries. While localization allows for better market response, it may also impact profits by not having globally standardized products and supplies.
2. China
Tesla’s heavy dependence on China is a significant challenge. In the first half of 2023, one-third of Tesla’s global volume was delivered to China. This makes Tesla one of the Western companies most reliant on Chinese demand, along with Volkswagen, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz.
A potential trade or political conflict between China and the US/Europe could be detrimental to Tesla if Chinese customers switch from foreign brands to local ones. Moreover, Chinese car brands with electric models pose a threat to Tesla’s market share.
3. Model Lineup
Tesla needs to expand its product range and target more market segments. The Model S, introduced 12 years ago, followed by the Model X, contribute to an average age of 8.1 years for Tesla’s lineup. With a relatively narrow range, Tesla must maintain appeal and profitability by expanding into trucks and small cars.
4. A New Dinosaur?
As Tesla experiences rapid growth in sales volume, it must avoid the pitfalls of bureaucratic processes and decision-making commonly seen in established companies. Maintaining flexibility, which has been a key factor in Tesla’s success, becomes increasingly challenging as the company grows.
5. Emerging Markets
While the auto industry mostly focuses on major markets like China, Japan, South Korea, the United States, and Europe, over 22% of global light vehicle sales come from the rest of the world. Tesla currently misses out on this significant portion of the market, which accounts for over 17 million units. For Tesla to truly go global, it needs to develop products tailored to the income levels of these regions’ populations.
The author of the article, Felipe Munoz, is an Automotive Industry Specialist at JATO Dynamics.
Italian motorcycle manufacturer Benelli, owned by Chinese motorcycle giant Qianjiang, has been rapidly expanding in recent years. As part of its flagship adventure-tourer range, the TRK 502, Benelli has introduced four new color schemes in the Indian market.
The TRK 502 is available in two variants: the standard road-focused TRK 502 and the more rugged off-road TRK 502 X. The main difference between the two models is their wheel configuration – the TRK 502 comes with alloy wheels, while the TRK 502 X features wire-spoked wheels. The newly launched color schemes differentiate the two variants.
The TRK 502 X is now available in four new colors: Dark Gray, White, Yellow, and Green. Each color option has a different price, with Dark Gray, White, and Green priced at Rs 635,000 (about $7,700 USD), and the Yellow color scheme, considered the hero color, priced at Rs 650,000 (about $7,900 USD).
Aside from the new colors, there are no significant updates in terms of technology. The TRK 502 X retains its rugged adventure-focused design, featuring a tall windscreen, twin-pod headlight, and a half-fairing. The adventure-tourer also offers comfortable passenger accommodations with a split-style two-up saddle and large passenger grab handles.
Both the Benelli TRK 502 and TRK 502 X are equipped with a 500cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, parallel-twin engine with a zero-degree crankshaft. This configuration provides ample torque and linear power delivery, delivering a maximum power output of 46.8 horsepower at 8,500 rpm, and 32 pound-feet of torque at 6,000 rpm.
There’s no denying that electric motorcycles are the future of two-wheeled mobility. With rapid growth in Europe and Asia, electric two-wheelers are foreseen to become more popular in the coming years. Indeed, nearly all manufacturers big and small are developing new EV platforms, the latest of which is French motorcycle brand Peugeot Motocycles.
We’ve talked about Peugeot Motocycles quite a bit in recent years. The historic French marque seems to be undergoing a resurgence, rolling out new models left and right, in multiple markets. Indeed, thanks to funding from German company Mutares, the French brand has been given a second lease on life. That being said, with electric motorbikes apparently the next big thing, it’s no surprise that Peugeot wants in on the action, too.
In an article by Le Repaire Des Motards, Sébastien Mas, President of Peugeot Motorcycles explained, “The main driver of our collaboration lies in the DAB brand promise: to deliver thrills on two wheels to the bold. This powerful commitment has led us to recognize the need to venture into the electrical field, relying on our strong heritage of 125 years of know-how. In addition, the essence of both brands is rooted in production in France. We are very proud to manufacture our premium ranges locally, to preserve our expertise and to contribute to the growth of French industry.”
Instead of developing a new EV platform from the ground up, Peugeot has decided to invest in another company to carry out its EV-focused endeavors. Said company is fellow French firm DAB motors. Founded in 2019, the Biarritz-based company started out building custom motorcycles. In 2021, it entered the EV space with its Concept-E, an electric motorbike with minimalist, sporty design akin to that of a supermoto. It was designed as a 125cc-equivalent in terms of performance.
On paper, a machine like the DAB Concept-E is a perfect fit for what Peugeot wants to achieve in the future. Peugeot, being the established company that it is, undoubtedly has the expertise when it comes to sales, distribution, and mass-production. Meanwhile, DAB has the technological know-how to make impressive, premium electric motorcycles. That being said, you can probably see where this is going – the partnership could very well result in the commercialization of the Concept-E, or some other equivalent electric two-wheeler.
On the DAB Motors side fo the equation, company founder and CEO Simon Dabadie stated in the same report, “I am delighted to be associated with a historic manufacturer such as Peugeot Motocycles. This strategic collaboration will allow DAB Motors to take a new step. With the support of Peugeot Motocycles, DAB Motors will soon mass-produce its electric motorcycles and deliver them worldwide.”
Now, whether DAB will retain its branding, or be absorbed into Peugeot as a whole, remains to be seen. What we do know, is that DAB is set to put up its production line in Peugeot’s large factory in Mandeure, France. The end-goal is to have an electric motorcycle that’s affordable, practical, and 100-percent made in France. Peugeot now holds a majority share in DAB Motors, so expect to hear quite a lot more about this partnership in the future.
Unlock Your Automotive Passion and Explore the Road Ahead
