Saturday, July 25, 2009

Antique Cars

The general definition of antique cars in the United States refers to cars that are over twenty five years old and those driven before the world war two but in the United Kingdom they refer to cars that are almost one hundred years old and also known as veteran cars. Antique cars are also known as classic cars and date way back to when the motorized system included the manufacture of auto mobiles. According to the American Classic Car Club, antique cars refer to distinctive automobiles. The club rates the classic cars to full classic and CCCA classic. The antique and classic term meant that the cars were very expensive and very few people were able to afford them, this made their production be in small numbers.

Some of the factors that accord cars the antique status include the general and distinctive luxurious accessory and custom coachwork features such as the power clutch, the power brakes and an automatic or one shot lubrication system and the engine displacement. The twenty five year or more time frames of the antique cars is quite astonishing since the modern cars can have a half of that life span. This rare and long survival makes the antique cars not be used for regular transportation as it is very expensive to maintain. However, due to the prestige that comes with this type of cars, most people many antique cars are kept restore, collect and own antique cars as a hobby or as an art collection or for commercial purposes.

Initially antique cars were propelled with steam and they were horseless carriages which could move at a speed of 12mph when going up hill and on level roads. The steam engine saw a major but gradual development over the years and by 1860 the antique cars had an internal combustion engine. The four stroke engine became characteristic with the next set of antique cars but was quickly overtaken by Benz which had a tabular chassis which was framed and had three wheels. The styles used on antique cars may vary but most of them have removable headlights, trunks fenders and headlights. In addition they have a grill treatment which is vertical in nature. Some examples of antique cars include Kaiser-Frazer, pierce arrow, 1910 Ford Toure and Duisenberg.

Antique cars do not normally have safety related features such as roll over protection, seat belts and crumple zones. In addition most of these cars still use the ancient and outdated standards of vehicle handling. This is mainly in the performance of the brakes, suspension and steering of the car and this therefore demands that one is highly alert and aware when driving to avoid any accidents. In some countries the use of antique cars for daily transportation is either prohibited or discouraged. Most antique cars qualify for the motor shows due to their originality and traditional designs. Some owners refuse to fit in seatbelts or redesign their antique cars so as not to make them lose their originality.
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Wednesday, July 22, 2009

An Overview Of The Peugeot Models

The Peugeot 206 was created in the early 1990s with the replacement of the preceding 205 model. Peugeot changed their model under the idea that super mini cars were no longer profitable, therefore a change was in order. The Peugeot 206 did not immediately follow the 205 as the Peugeot 106, 306 and 309 models to capture different levels of sales from prospective customers. The Peugeot 106 was rivaling the Ford Fiesta and Volkswagen Polo with the 306 and 309 models taking the mid and top end sales from the discontinuation of the 205. Because of this, many Peugeot enthusiasts believe the 206 should have been named the 207. The 206, although created early was not released until 1998.

The Peugeot moniker indicates that the 206 immediately followed the 205, but this is not true as other models were released before the 206. The eventual successor, the 207, was finally launched n 2006, but Peugeot recently announced that the 206 will stay in production until the year 2010. The 206 is the best selling Peugeot of all time but the end of the model in the upcoming years will end the 06 generation of Peugeot cars in almost 20 years. The 206 was initially produced in France and England but production switched to Slovakia. The closure of the British plant matched with the closure of the Ryton plant, which Peugeot took over when Peugeot bought Chryslers European division in 1979.

The Peugeot 306 replaced the 309. The 306 is very similar to the Citroen ZX, which was released to the public two years before the 306 model. Both cars used the same structure and floorplan. The 205 was styled after the Pininfarina styling and has been a better seller. In the 1974 oil crisis, Citroen went bankrupt and Peugeot took over Citroen. This led to the similarities and identical cars produced by both manufacturers.

The 306 Phase 1 came to the market in March of 1993 as a 3 and 5 door hatchback with three different models being offered. The five door was more of a station wagon and was dubbed the sw for station wagon. Although not nearly as stylish as the 205, the 306 offered many practical uses in the vehicle. The sw estate model was not a hatchback station wagon, but a sedan with luxurious European styling to accompany the Peugeot racing spirit.

The engines used in the Peugeot cars were offered both in a gasoline and a diesel model. The gasoline engines were four cylinder units, which gained their outstanding reputation from being the power plant in the ever popular Peugeot 205 model. The idea for the Peugeot engines was to have a fair trade off between performance and excellent fuel economy. Three larger capacity engines were available but were restricted to automatic and performance models.

The diesel engines in Peugeot came with an excellent reputation and were largely available in turbo charged models. The original engine displacement for the diesel engines came in a 1.8 liter, but was soon upgraded to a 1.9 liter. The turbocharged Peugeot diesel became an excellent fitting engine to match the 306 as the performance matched similarly sized gasoline cars. The considerable extra weight was overcome by the turbocharged performance.
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Friday, July 17, 2009

All Terrain Vehicles Make Hitting The Trails Easy And Fun

As urban sprawl and suburban growth continue to crowd us more and more, the allure of open trails and roads less traveled becomes more and more appealing. While hiking and cycling offer a needed respite to many, others are drawn to the power, speed, versatility, and fun offered by all terrain vehicles. Unlike motorcycles, all terrain vehicles (ATVs) sit on three or four wheels, and are easy enough for almost anyone to operate. Further, all terrain vehicles are easy to understand once you know a few simple basics.

Technically speaking, an all terrain vehicle is a small, open, three or four wheeled vehicle that is designed for off road travel. Those in the market for an ATV will quickly notice the paucity of three-wheeled versions on the market. Due to safety reasons the three-wheelers had a tendency to tip over easily only four-wheeled all terrain vehicles were legally produced from 1987 to 1997. Although it is again legal to produce the three-wheelers, very few have been produced.

Aside from the wheel configuration, all terrain vehicles can be divided into two distinct camps: sport models and utility models. Utility models are generally designed to haul small loads on racks or on attached trailer beds. While they may have an engine displacement similar or identical to a sport models, they are designed for more power and less speed. Sport models, on the other hand, are smaller, lighter, and faster, than their utility counterparts. Able to reach speeds as high as 90 miles per hour, some sport models are faster than many full sized cars.

With all that speed literally at your fingertips owners and operators of all terrain vehicles need to remember to put safety first. With engines as large as 800ccs, these vehicles can be extremely powerful and they can accelerate quickly, making it easy to tip them over. While driving an ATV can be fun, functional, and exhilarating, it can be dangerous as well. Each year there are thousands of injuries, and hundreds of deaths, related to all terrain vehicles.

Despite the dangerous track record, all terrain vehicles can be safe and fun for those who follow basic safety precautions. With precautions in place all terrain vehicles provide a fun and fuel efficient way to hit the road, trail, or even hauling things around the farm. Lightweight, easy to store, fast, powerful, and fun; all terrain vehicles have earned their popularity through their utilitarian and recreational qualities.
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Tuesday, July 14, 2009

All Features of KTM Duke 200

The KTM bikes is a subsidiary company of Bajaj Auto which has recently started its dealership of KTM Duke 200 in many cities in India that includes Delhi, Mumbai, Pune and Bangalore. The KTM Duke 200 has been getting an overwhelming market response from couple of days ago in the Indain mobile market. The KTM Duke 200 will be available in other countries like South East Asia and Latin America after a span of time with its introductory price. The KTM is a reputed Austrian bike manufacturing company and KTM Duke 200 is designed in India which is now selling through Bajaj Auto ProBiking outlets across the country. The KTM Duke 200 is mainly designed for the youth generation who like the riding on the Indian roads with more effectively.

The KTM Duke 200 Price In India is tagged at Rs 1,17,500 and the company is expecting a good sales figure of 2,000 units for a month. The competitor of KTM Duke 200 is that like Honda CBR 250R and Bajaj Pulsar 200 NS at the same price point. The KTM Duke 200 Features reveal that the superbike is powered by a single cylinder, 4-stroke, spark-ignition, liquid-cooled along with 200cc of engine displacement for better speed on the road. The bike comes equipped with a maximum power of 25 BHP and 19 Nm of a maximum torque that the rider can get high riding speed on the road.

The Ktm Duke 200 Specification are superb that the bike has been installed with 125 kg of curb weight and is accorded with lots of shades and sporty design. The rider can get 10 kmpl of fuel efficiency on the tough roads and comes with 18 litres of fuel tank capacity as well as 2.5 litres of fuel reserve capability. The KTM Duke 200 has been bundled with 6 speed manual transmission in a single variant of petrol and comes with an electronic starter option and the rider can start the bike with just a single click on the button. This bike has been comprised with 300 mm disc brake at the front with two-pot brake caliper and the rear disc brake of 230 mm with one-pot brake caliper that the rider can control the bike.

The rider can ride this bike with more comfort and stability on the road without any exhaust due to its alloy wheels system. The bike consists of 110/70 x 17 mm of front tyre size and 150/60 x 17 mm of rear tyre size for better riding experience on the tough roads. On the other hand, the KTM Duke 200 comes equipped with both of front telescopic and rear mono-shock suspension that is capable of carrying large quantity of stuff on it. Both of front and rear suspension is installed with 150 mm of adjustable suspension that provides comfort for the riders on the tough Indian roads.

Get more information on KTM Bikes only on India's # 1 Auto Portal Bikedekho.com. Also read the original Article at: All Features of KTM Duke 200
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Thursday, July 9, 2009

A Brief Overview Of Mercedes Models And Classes

Mercedes currently has 17 different car classes in production, and within each of these categories there are several different body types. While it can get confusing, once you understand the code the names are easier to decipher. The class refers to the type of model while the number following it is the engine displacement (although they are not always exact). Each class differs greatly not only in function and style, but price range as well. Some classes have been in production in some form or another for decades, and a few are quite new in the past few years. Here is a short overview of a few of the popular classes.

Comfort

The C-class is described as a compact executive car and was first produced in 1993. The models have had varying degrees of success in the market. On one hand, the W204 has been named the second best selling luxury car in North America. On the other, the W203 failed to impress buyers. The C-class is well known for its overall reliability and the non-AMG models are reasonably priced. Buyers will also have plenty of options to choose from, making it truly fit to individual taste. It still remains one of the most popular of all vehicles produced by the company.

Comfort Light

The CL is a fairly new class of Mercedes with production beginning officially in 1998. However, it is based off the older S-class sedans that have been around since the mid 1950's. They both have similar specs except that the CL is the sportier version with a smaller body and only 2 seats as opposed the four in the S. As of 2011, there were four models in production and on the market that include the 500, 600, 63 AMG, and 65 AMG. The latter is the most expensive model in the entire company range and subsequently has the smallest annual sales. It's a fun and fast ride that few people have the privilege to afford.

Executive

Although the E-class name didn't stick until 1993, the basic concept has been around since the beginnings of the company in the 30's. The most recent incarnation, the W212, began production in 2009. Since then technology has rapidly evolved and the mid-sized sedans now feature a wide-range of electronic features to assist drivers and increase safety. Highlights include a blind spot monitor, locking folding mirrors, and rear-parking camera. While considered largely a luxury vehicle in the United States, it has become a popular taxi car in many European countries.

Compact Luxury Crossover

The GLK class stands alone with only one single model currently in production. It's a roomy ride that's good for families or weekend travelers. Compact SUV cars are becoming increasingly popular and combine spacious interiors with streamlined bodies for easier handling. If it looks a bit military-inspiredit is. It's also just as rugged with the ability to do a little off-roading. So while the main market may still be mothers who need room for groceries and the kids, it would do just as well for camping or sporting enthusiasts.
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Sunday, July 5, 2009

A Brief Introduction To Mercedes Benz

Owing to the economic necessity created by the First World War, which ended in 1918, Benz and Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschat signed an agreement of mutual economic interest, in 1924. The two companies merged on June 28, 1926, and a unique logo was designed for the car. The new emblem was a three-pointed star wreathed with a laurel. This merger brought prosperity to the companies. The production of Mercedes-Benz rose to 7,918 automobiles by 1927. Mercedes enjoys a global presence and as such, their dealerships promises great offers.

Among all Mercedes cars sold in Canada, the most convenient and road-friendly Mercedes Benz is the Mercedes C class series. The Mercedes Benz 2006 C class includes sedans. The sedans are available with the new V6 engine technology with a high-tech seven-speed automatic transmission.

The Mercedes-Benz SLK model, however, is designed for the rich and famous. A new generation of high-tech, scratch-resistant vinyl was developed for the SLK class to offer a more glamorous appearance. The SLK model runs on a super-smooth soundproof engine. A touch of a button on the key fob converts the car into a closed coupe with a hard top. The present day SLK is a sleek sports car, deviating from its original road cruiser design and is a popular Mercedes Benz variety.

The term classic auto or classic car in common parlance is used to describe any antique car belonging to an era gone by. But, the term 'classic' Mercedes Benz Toronto is expected to be much more specific in meaning at times. For example, authorities define classic cars as those, which have been manufactured between 1925 and 1948.

These cars are now strictly collector's items and carry truly prohibitive price tags. Even then there are enthusiasts ready to shell out huge sums of money to get their hands on a classic car of their choice. The norms set by the CCCA for classification of a car as a 'classic' is, '... a fine or distinctive automobile, either American or foreign built, produced between 1925 and 1940.'

Other factors, including engine displacement, custom coachwork and luxury accessories such as power brakes, power clutch, and 'one-shot' or automatic lubrication systems, help determine whether a car is classic or not. The SLK model may not feature in this list but in the modern sense of the term Classic, it sure is a beauty to behold.
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Thursday, July 2, 2009

You Can Honda S2000 turbocharger kit

The car was first shown as a concept at the Tokyo Motor Show in 1995, The whole world would have to wait another 4 years to buy it. The S2000 is named for its engine displacement of 2L, carrying on in the tradition of the S500 and S800 roadsters of the 1960s. Honda altered the car's setup multiple times throughout its production to include changes to the chassis, powerplant and crivetrain. There are 2 versions according to the Honda specifications, chassis AP1 was pre '03 and the second designation after. Though cosmetically similar, the AP2 incorporated significant changes to the drivetrain and suspension. The car was discontinued just before the turn of 2010.

The most dramatic change to the second-generation S2000 was the new engine. As the F22's stock engine internals are forged, it can make an incredible amount of horsepower on a turbocharged stock engine block. There are examples runinng the standard block with almost half the power of a Bugatti Veyron!.

Things you'll need:
Turbocharger

Turbo intake
Exhaust manifold
Inter- or charge-cooler
Blowoff valve
Oil/coolant lines
A suitable ECU

If you're on a budget, second-hand units can help keep the costs down considerably. There are many models out there from Mitsi 18G's to some of the smaller turbo diesel units to help eliminate the low-mid range gap in the S2000 powerband. Those with the money should certainly not scrimp in this area - always try to get the best, highest-throughput turo that you can afford. Measure your turbocharger's air inlet, and purchase an aftermarket turbo air intake with the same neck diameter to replace the F22's stock intake system.

A tubular manifold from and aftermarket company will really help with the numbers so consider it over a home-made welding job. These can be custom fabricated by an exhaust shop to bolt to the F22 and accept your specific turbocharger. Alternatively, numerous aftermarket exhaust manifolds that mount to various turbochargers are available for the F22.

Charge or intercooler is an often-debated point. A turbo really heats up the air as it's forced throught the turbines so you need this system to safeguard agaiinst pinging and detonation. As the F22 is a high-compression engine, a large, front-mount intercooler system is ideal, as the engine will perform poorly with high intake temperatures. You will need to modify the valance to make it all fit.


Purchase a blowoff valve. These mount to the upper intercooler piping, intended to release excess charged air from the intake track when the throttle is lifted. Dump valves are largely a "one size fits all" solution and will fit most applications.

The turbo will need new oil/water lines dependent on how it is cooled. Putting your own pipes together is easy - just get the lengths you need of stainless braided lines from a local auto factor - the relevant fitting are always available on eBay.

The final and most important step is to get the engine and turbo setup properly mapped, preferably by a professional with a rolling road. For budget setups, a piggyback ECU tuner can be used. Professional dyno tuning for turbocharged F22 engines is important, as a poor engine tune will lead to low horsepower numbers, and possibly engine failure.
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