Senin, 25 Mei 2009

The New SEAT Exeo

Automotive
April 2009 for the first time SEAT presents the new Exeo to international public. By this new sporty middle class limousine, Spanish car manufacturer extend the range of this model, offering for the first time a limousine in the important B-segment.

The new SEAT Exeo not only signals the brand's arrival in the saloon segment, but is also a breakthrough for common rail Diesel engines. The Exeo provides lower emissions levels, better fuel consumption figures and lower noise levels.

The new SEAT Exeo has just been revealed and it is most likely the designated model for WTCC. However, the Exeo is really not a new model, is the old Audi A4 (B7) with SEAT headlights, grille, interior details, etc.

The new SEAT Exeo Saloon is all about speed in a minimalist design.

Standard equipment is generous, including ABS, ESP, dual-zone climate control, seven airbags, 16-inch wheels and a trip computer,alloy wheels and Bluetooth phone preparation. As usual, expect a range of options including satnav, bigger wheels, rear parking sensors, steering wheel controls, bi-xenon headlights and leather upholstery to be available, too.

Customers can also opt for sports suspension at no additional cost. The SEAT Exeo features a long list of optional equipment that significantly increases onboard comfort and safety. Customers who choose the optional navigation system will enjoy one of the highest definition 6.5-inch colour TFT screens on the market. It has several configuration possibilities, including location of petrol stations, motorway lane observance, manoeuvring locations on the map or topography map, among others.

The Exeo on show in Paris is powered by a turbo-charged 197 bhp 2.0-litre TSI with combined fuel consumption of 36.6 mpg, while CO2 emissions are below 185 g/km. SEAT has promised excellent handling, thanks to specially tweaked suspension elements - the front suspension set-up is an independent multilink, with a trapezoidal link at the rear. Light alloy elements on both shafts also considerably reduce unsuspended mass.

SEAT President, Erich Schmitt, confirmed the fact that with the Exeo, SEAT is bringing to market a car for dynamic and sporty drivers of the B segment. He also said that the Exeo is an alternative for company car drivers who expect a quality, fuel efficient vehicle that offers driving fun at an affordable price coupled with low emissions.

Seat claims that the five-seat saloon promises premium quality and exceptional levels of standard equipment, alongside a healthy dose of SEAT's trademark sporting character. The firm has confirmed that its luxurious Latin newcomer, due to go on sale in the UK in April, it will be offered in S, SE, Sport.

SEAT is making a big entrance in the saloon segment with a great car. The Exeo stands out as one of the most advanced models in its category and features very competitive pricing. Seat's designers, headed by award winning Luc Donckerwolke, have had a good bash at giving the Exeo a unique style. Some of the more obvious Seat traits have been grafted on and the result is a smart looking vehicle.
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Sabtu, 23 Mei 2009

Vehicle Storage

Whatever type of vehicle you have, when you need a storage to the vehicle, you need a few options when it comes to the storing. Whether it is a classic car or one you Tinker with under the hood it deserves to be protected. Many scenarios of life can not provide a place to store the vehicle or have partial storage such as an overhead shelter that does not fully protect your vehicle from the elements. When this happens, you need several options for where to store your vehicle both for the whole season, a few days or whatever length of time you determine.

Warehouses are also great places for vehicle storage of your classic car. Many warehouses provide a safe place that is climate-controlled, secured by keyed or gated access only and large enough to ensure that your classic car is not bumped, damaged or disturbed by other people who also have storage space there. Some warehouses even have special options they offer to people who are planning to store cars of all types for an entire season such as all winter or summer or even the whole year. These features include winterizing such as oil changes or periodic vehicle starts to keep engines from remaining idle too long.

Another way to keep your car safe with vehicle storage is to store it in an underground parking facility. Underground parking is an excellent place to store your car when you are not driving it and want it to be safe from the elements. One of the main advantages of underground storage is that your car is not on the street but safely parked in a designed space underground. Underground parking facilities are comparable in cost to enclosed parking structures but sometimes are not manned by 24-hour security. Underground security can also be a risk for flooding damage if applicable.

Storage sheds are another way to store your vehicle. Unlike your garage, a storage shed can be constructed exclusively for your vehicle or if you are renting storage shed space, your car may be the only car in the shed. The nice thing about storage sheds is they can be designated just for your car and not other items that might damage your classic car like paint, tools or other objects.

Keeping your car safe with vehicle storage is the best way to take care of your car when you do not have space in your garage and you need to protect your car from the elements such as rain and snow. Vehicle storage comes in a variety of options but one of the most popular vehicle storage options is to store your vehicle in an enclosed parking structure.

Enclosing parking structures that offer vehicle storage for your car can be expensive for the length of time that you use them but they are a worthwhile investment for many reasons. First, enclosed parking structures are usually maintained by 24-hour security or completed secured by gate with access available only to those who pay to store their vehicles in the structure. Enclosed parking structures keep your car safe from the weather, theft and accidental damage that can result from being parked on the street or even in your garage.

States like Michigan offer vehicle storage for your traditional or classic vehicle to be kept safe throughout the winter season. This is very important if you want your car to be protected from the winter conditions that are prevalent in Michigan from around Thanksgiving to Easter, sometimes longer. Remember, no matter how you choose to keep your car safe, some form of vehicle storage is the best thing you can do for your car when it isn't in use. Keeping your car safe maintains a longer life.

If you are looking for quality vehicle storage in Michigan, remember that vehicle storage facilities may fill up quicker as the winter months approach and it would be a good idea to get your vehicle storage unit selected and pay at least a deposit and a month or two of the rent to ensure that you will have a place to put your vehicle before the snow and other in climate weather comes.
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Jumat, 22 Mei 2009

Porsche 911

Automotive
Truly amazing, the car that we know today as the 911 was initially named the 901 (901 being its internal project number). However, the company's rivals Peugeot objection to the principle that they have the exclusive right to name the car with three digits and a middle 0. Although this right only applies in France, renamed the Porsche line of cars to 911 to avoid any complications. Therefore is the name of one of the most populair in the history of automobiles; as a Compromise.

The development

Since it’s unveiling in 1963, the 911 has gone through many transformations and with the advent of newer and most advanced technology, the modifications are still going on. The 911 range can broadly be classified into two on the basis of the cooling technology used in them. They are :

• Air cooled – These vehicles used air as the cooling medium for the engines and thus the heat losses were substantial. The earliest 911’s were of this type and the technology was used by Porsche till 1998. The cars built with this technology include Porsche 911 classic (1964-1989), Porsche 964 (1989-1993) and Porsche 993 (1993-1998) wide body.

• Water cooled – As the name reveals, this line of vehicles had water as the cooling medium and thus their efficiency improved manifold. This technology has been adopted by Porsche for all its vehicles since 1998. The cars built with this technology include Porsche 996 (1999-2004) and Porsche 997 (2004-Present).

Interesting facts about the 911

• The 911 is the third oldest sport car nameplate still in production in the world.

• A poll for the Car of the Century saw the 911 being voted the fifth favourite.

If you are interested in a Porsche 911 then visit www.porschemelbourne.com.au. This is the website of Porsche Melbourne, which is the premier dealership of Porsche in Melbourne. Get in touch with them and get your hands on your dream car.
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Kamis, 21 Mei 2009

BMW Cars

Automotive
Bavarian Motor Works or BMW is always called first car made on debut in 1916, when the first vehicle as rolled off the assembly line. Of course this will take a decade until the line with the luxury and high performance vehicle that will rightful take place, possibly the most highly recognized name in high end cars on the road today.

BMW is well recognized for the wide variety of vehicles that they manufacture, which has allowed them to dominate in several distinct sectors of the automobile market. In fact, they solidified their dominance with the introduction of the X-5 SAV series of Sports Activity Vehicles in 1999 to represent MBW in they highly competitive SUV market, which this series has done quite well.

Since then, BMW has followed up with the X-6 series of Sports Activity Coup, which gained a fast reputation as a reliable, high performance, very “in demand” sports vehicle. BMW plans on introducing yet another addition to their SAV line with the Concept X1, which is expected to be the most expensive and highest performing of all their Sports Utility Vehicles as of yet.

BMW introduced the public to their 3rd series or what is also known as their executive class line of vehicles in 1975. They are currently in their third generation and are synonymous with luxury and performance, as well as their easily recognizable distinct smooth lines. The current 5th generation of BMW third series includes but of course is not limited to the E92, the E91 Family Wagon and the E90 luxury performance sedan.

Due to the incredibly positive reception that their 5th generation 3rd series vehicles have received worldwide, BMW now offers them with a wide range of unique feature options. These include amenities such as a DVD player with four separate LCD screens, remote engine start system and DMW high performance headlights.

Quite possible the most visible line or series of BMW vehicles is the (i coup), with one of their most popular being the BMW 135i, currently priced in the area of $35,000. For over two now decades owning and driving a BMW from the i coup series has been one of the best ways for a young professional living in the US, Canada or Europe to announce to the world that they have finally achieved a measurable degree of success in their chosen occupation.

Due to the incredibly wide range of vehicles in the complete BMW line that range in price from highly affordable to pricey high end luxury sedans vehicles, BMW's tend to appeal to an equally wide range of car owners. Not only are BMW's recognized for their comfort and drivability but they also carry with them a well earned repudiation for reliability that keeps them out of repair shops.

Also, in recent years Luxury BMW sedans have become increasingly popular as a vehicle of choice for limousine conversions. Of course as car buyers become increasingly aware of the need for fuel efficiency in a luxury vehicle, BMW engineers have been busy making their cars even more fuel efficient then they already were so well known for being.
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Rabu, 20 Mei 2009

Typical Electrical Problems Fixed by Mobile Mechanics

When you pop hood and look the complex mechanical device called engine, you immediately know that there are many cables. In fact, the cable same as snakes around the engine in a complex configuration that makes little sense to anyone who is not a mechanic. Auto engines have a lot of configuration that electricity is vital to their smooth operation. The reality is that when a car has a problem, it could easily be an electrical problem as much as it could be a mechanical problem.

Any qualified mechanic needs to be familiar with both mechanical and electrical problems in order to be efficient at his or her job. That means a mobile car mechanic must be prepared to complete a variety of repairs including those related to the electrical systems.

Seeking the Elusive Electrical Problem

Many times electrical problems are the most elusive, because they can occur intermittently. For example, the car engine may not work properly, but only after the engine warms up. Or the ignition works randomly. Perhaps the engine cuts out without notice while cruising down the highway. Then again, your car might have a faulty alternator or a defective wire.

All of these are electrical problems which can be fixed by mobile car mechanics. Using state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment is necessary to pinpoint electrical problems in computerised engines, so it’s important to use a technologically current mobile car service.

The kinds of electrical repairs fixed by mobile mechanics include the following.

* Fault testing including reading computer fault codes
* ECU and PCM
* Electronic ignition repairs
* Electronic dash repairs
* Engine light analysis
* Electronic or electric module analysis
* Starter replacement or rebuilding
* Alternator replacement or rebuilding
* Battery replacement
* Electric brake repairs
* Alarm wiring repairs
* Air conditioning repair

Of course, there are plenty of wiring problems an engine can experience and they can be very difficult to locate unless the mechanic is experienced. Analysing electrical problems requires using special equipment combined with mechanic expertise. Today’s engines are extremely sophisticated combinations of electronics, electrical wiring, and moving parts and seem like they are half-computer and half-mechanical.

Quirky Problems Require Expert Repairs

There were 266,539 new vehicles sold in Victoria in 2008. There are over 3,921,574 cars on the road in Victoria. If you could talk to the various car owners who have experienced engine problems, odds are you would find the quirky problems are related to electrical issues. Fortunately the right diagnostic equipment can make it much easier to pinpoint the problem quickly.

Mobile mechanics can perform a variety of electrical repairs on-site. These include emergency repairs such as battery replacements to more complex repairs done at your home or at work. When you utilise mobile car mechanic services, you get convenient repairs for less cost than you would pay at a typical car shop.

Quirky electrical repairs can be expensive when the mechanic is not fully prepared with the right experience and the right diagnostic equipment. That’s why it’s so important to choose a qualified and certified mobile car service.
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Senin, 18 Mei 2009

The Volvo V70 DRIVe

Automotive
Volvo introduced the new range of DRIVe Volvos. The company began producing of the fuel efficiency, vehicles with low emissions in the past year a success followed by the introduction in the 2008 Paris Auto Show. The C30 DRIVE even managed to slip into the European Union's band of the cleanest vehicles by producing less than 105g CO2 per km, and the Volvo V70 DRIVE AIMS to follow in the C30's footsteps.

The Volvo V70's fuel economy averages a very credible 43mpg, and if driven sensibly you'll get around 670miles out of a full tank. It's good news for business users too, as the D5 emits 172g/km (25% Tax liability) which makes it cheaper to run as a company car than a Mercedes E-Class estate and on a par with the BMW 525d Touring.

The Volvo V70 DRIVe also gets better fuel consumption through the use of tyres designed for low rolling resistance. They get an electric power steering pump providing the exact amount of assistance the driver needs, instead of too much power which needlessly draws energy off the powertrain. The V70 also gets a covered grille and lowered chassis to decrease drag.

No car epitomises this philosophy better than the Volvo V70 estate. Its predecessors were so ugly and dull to drive that they were nicknamed Swedish penalty boxes, whereas the Volvo V70 DRIVe is all swoops, curves and studied elegance. The overall sense of intelligence wrapped up in the beautiful bodies that Volvo now wraps their cars in is exceedingly appealing.

The Volvo V70 and S80 DRIVe versions are also equipped with an electric power steering pump that delivers exactly the servo assistance the driver requires, in a precise and energy-efficient way. All DRIVe models feature this power steering system.

The size of the Volvo V70 DRIVe makes the car very versatile for a range of families and a range of needs. This V70 is one of the most voluminous big estate cars on sale today, able to swallow a washing machine whole, without folding the rear seat down. So if you like the idea of a big Volvo estate for cargo-carrying, then you will not be disappointed.

Used values are excellent on all versions because the V70 is one of the best-selling premium estate cars. Aided by six-speed automatic transmission, the Volvo V70 makes an exemplary tow car. On the test track it showed it would remain stable at speeds well above the limit on British roads, which is reassuring.

In addition, the car has been given a higher level of luxury, to reinforce its premium qualities. The "soft nose" front, including an egg-crate grille with chromed vertical bars, creates a sporty yet luxurious appearance.

But driving even the more powerful versions isn't intimidating, thanks to traction control, predictable handling, excellent grip (especially on the all-wheel drive cars) and precise steering. As you'd expect, V70 has massive in-built strength; V70 gained five NCAP stars. Any more power would really need AWD. Need to pass someone, effortless. Peak torque of 295lb ft is delivered at just 1500rpm, peak power at 5600rpm. The transverse engine is mated to a six-speed auto (there's no manual option) and, with Four-C, the Haldex-type four-wheel drive uses an electronically controlled clutch pack to distribute torque between the axles.

The engine now has lower compression, more efficient combustion and the latest generation of engine management software. What is more, the turbocharger has been optimised to deliver high torque from low revs. Owners of the old V70 will be impressed by the latest model's stiffer chassis and improved handling. What's more, while the Volvo performed well in our brake tests, stopping from 60mph in 36.4 metres - the pedal is the softest underfoot.

The car is second to none in safety, and the company has managed to add on a few new safety innovations as well. Safety features include including a multitude of airbags, traction control, electronic stability programme, whiplash prevention system and Volvo's Side Impact Protection System. That's complimented with an extensive standard equipment list too, which includes CD player, MP3 socket, air conditioning and cruise control. The side-curtain airbags now extend 2.4 inches lower down the door to better protect kids. But wait, there's more: new dual-chamber front-seat-mounted side airbags, second-generation whiplash-protection system, blind-spot detection, and available adaptive cruise control with collision-warning that primes the brake system (the brakes don't apply like those on Mercedes PreSafe when a collision is deemed inevitable). The Volvo V70 is a supremely safe family car, but should the worst happen there's anti whiplash head restraints, side impact protection systems and multiple airbags included as standard across the range.

"Our aim is to offer cars that have the lowest CO2 emissions... DRIVe is the symbol for this process and the cars bearing this badge are those with which we have made most progress" Says Magnus Jonsson.

The Volvo V70 DRIVe is stunning to look, it carries the green DRIVe badge of fuel-efficiency and being a Volvo, it is one of the safest cars on the road today.
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Minggu, 17 Mei 2009

How Powerful Is The 2009 Aston Martin DB9

Automotive
Aston Martin is one of the most strongest in the auto market. They attract people in the produce on the autos speed, performance and luxury blended into one perfect package. They have built thousands of models, but none is more famous than the DB9.

This is a cool car that has been made with many of the proper things in mind and no holes barred. It is no wonder that everyone attempts to produce one of these beauties. For the 2009 model year Aston Martin out performed themselves and managed to develop a car that was better then the year before - if that is manageable.

The 2009 DB9 is provided as a convertible and a 2+2 coupe. The convertible goes under the name of Volante - which stands for ‘flying’ in Italian. This is a perfect name for something that is fitted out with a tremendous amount of power. The wheels are able to raise themselves from the ground when you start to test its limits. At least they feel that way.

Each model are given a 6.0 liter V12 engine that has the power to thrust out 470 horsepower and 443 pound feet of torque. Merged with this engine is a six speed manual or a six speed automatic. Both of these transmissions are situated at the rear transaxle to provide better weight dispersion and are developed with paddle shifters.

The only way that you can have the right car is if you are able to to determine how to decorate it yourself. Aston Martin allows you to choose the color combinations that will fit your style. You can find the soft top for the Volante in seven various colors that include leather.

Each models come standard with xenon headlamps, 19” allow wheels, navigation system, a full leather trim interior, Bluetooth connectivity, iPod interface, satellite radio, and a premium audio system that will out perform itself at all time.

The 2009 Aston Martin DB9 is one of the greatest supercars on the market that is able to cover all the bases. It is no wonder that it has a price tag of over $100,000. But with this kind of luxury and power it is worth every penny.
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Minggu, 10 Mei 2009

Jeep Wrangler

Automotive
This is the newer model of jeep wrangler, this larger and more widely from the previous model to provide comfort to the owner and passengers with the joy and the maximum interior space. In addition, this model has a different chassis which makes it more suitable for presentation in the road in driving. The Wrangler vehicle provides more space as possible and with four doors and seats five passengers. For maximum cargo suppleness, the unlimited Wrangler models include a 60/40 split Folding backseat for three passengers. This vehicle is suitable for family camping and fishing but is also suitable for the trip each day.

Under the load panel in the trunk you will find a hidden compartment that allows you to lock away your valuables and things you wish to keep safe. It is also a perfect place to keep all the tools and equipment you would need should you obtain a flat tire. It can hold all kinds of things like tow rope, first aid kit, tools, jumper cables and related items. When the bin is locked, no one will be able to have access to it so you can also lock your valuables in there when you have to leave your car but cannot take it all with you. On each door of the Jeep Wrangler there are lock cylinders, these can also be found on the swing gate and glove compartment. Compared to the previous model of this vehicle, the glove compartment is an advantageous 35% bigger than before.

The aspect that people like most about the Jeep Wrangler is that fact that the interior is so easy to clean. So when you get home from a heavy day of off road fun, all you have to do is remove the carpet on the floor of the jeep and wash the floor. Connect a hose pipe and rinse and wash the floor of your jeep and if required, the carpet can be taken inside and vacuumed. The outside of the Jeep can be washed normally, just keep in mind that you might want to use a soft cloth to avoid any kind of scratches or damage.

The Jeep Wrangler is 20% less noisy when on the road, compared to the previous models. Numerous aspects of the Jeep were improved with the Wrangler to provide the driver with a quieter ride which allows them more concentration on the road and also makes listening to music slightly easier.

The Jeep Wrangler also offers an instrument panel with four airflow outlets. The panel is available in either dark or gray. The panel features two sets of powerful speakers that are mounted just above the instrument panel. The exterior of the vehicle can be purchased in these colors;
• Flame Red
• Stone White
• Light Greystone Pearl
• Black
• Jeep Green Metallic
• Bright silver Metallic
• Red Rock Crystal Pearl
• Steel Blue Metallic
• Rescue Green Metallic

These are all great colors to choose from, but the choice is yours. It often depends on the personality of the driver to determine which color would best suit them.
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Selasa, 05 Mei 2009

Mustang Exhaust - Professional Upgrade Tips

An exhaust upgrade is second only to buying new wheels when it comes to altering a Ford Mustang. No problem if you just change the mid of pipe or replace all the system, mustang owners have one purpose: An exhaust system that sounds great and lasts. The only way to ensure this will happen is to improve the existing exhaust system. So, what are the elements of the exhaust system in a Ford Mustang?

The mustang exhaust system contains more that just nuts and bolts in its construction and performance. Among the most important functions the mustang exhaust system performs includes: moving hot exhaust gases coming out from your car, limiting noise output, and reducing exhaust emissions. This exhaust system is key to improving overall engine performance because it allows you to increase air flow through the engine faster.

How does the exhaust system do these things? It is done by pushing the gases from your engine, through the pipes and mufflers, and out of your car. There are three main components to the mustang exhaust system. All Mustangs have the same set-up, regardless of the year of making. I highly recommend upgrading both the headers and going with cat-back exhaust. Not only will you improve performance, you will improve the sound and fuel efficiency in some cases.

Manifolds are the first component and are attached to the engine exhaust ports. Exhaust gasses are funneled through the manifolds from the cylinders into the mid-pipe, which is the single exhaust passage for all cylinders. Mustang headers are synonymous with manifolds and although they perform the same functions, they do not work in exactly the same way. Headers normally have curved tubes joining the exhaust ports to the exhaust pipe while the several holes of the manifold converge into a common chamber. Both systems prevent the gasses from slamming through the ports, channeling them instead in a gentle flow into the pipe.

Next in our list of components is the mid-pipe. Every mustang exhaust system features a mid-pipe. The mid-pipe is where the gases are directed when they exit the manifold. Equalizing the exhaust pulses is the core reason for having this. Exhaust pulses are bursts of exhaust leaving the engine to the pipe and aid in system efficiency resulting in more engine power.

The third component is known as the mustang catback, which is bolted on to the back of the catalytic converters. The entire assembly is made up of the mufflers and the tailpipes, this is the final place that the vicious gases created by the engine come to. There are many products available aftermarket for performance upgrading of headers, exhaust and intake, the best source would be to click the links that you find in this article or resource box.
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