YZF-R1 - State-of-the art race technology :
The YZF-R1 is a legend of the supersport world, an acclaimed one-litre performer that’s become a motorcycling icon, an all-powerful World Superbike race-winning machine that’s also a monument to the power of beauty. The R1’s performance is electrifying and yet what makes this motorcycle truly remarkable is its superbly rider-friendly character because Yamaha’s avant-garde, race-bred technology puts you confidently in control.
Features :
State-of-the art race technology
180 PS @ 12.500 rpm
Yamaha Chip Controlled – Throttle & Intake
6-pot front callipers with 310mm discs
Slipper clutch
Engine :
Engine type - Liquid cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, 4-valve, forward inclined, parallel 4-cylinder
Displacement - 998 cc
Bore x stroke - 77.0 x 53.6 mm
Compression ratio - 12.7:1
Maximum power :
without induction : 132.4 kW (180 PS) @ 12,500 rpm / with induction : 139.0 kW (189 PS) @ 12,500 rpm
Maximum torque :
without induction : 112.7 Nm (11.5 kg-m) @ 10,000 rpm / with induction : 118.3 Nm (12.1 kg-m) @ 10,000 rpm
Lubrication system - Wet sump
Fuel System - Fuel injection
Clutch type - Wet, multiple-disc coil spring
Ignition system - TCI
Starter system - Electric
Transmission system - Constant mesh, 6-speed
Final transmission - Chain
Fuel tank capacity - 18 L (3.4 L)
Oil tank capacity - 3.83 L
Chassis :
Chassis - Aluminium die-cast Deltabox
Front suspension system - Telescopic forks, Ø 43 mm
Front travel - 120 mm
Rear suspension system - Swingarm
Rear travel - 130 mm
Front brake - Dual discs, Ø 310 mm
Rear brake - Single disc, Ø 220 mm
Front tyre - 120/70 ZR17MC (58W)
Rear tyre - 190/50 ZR17MC (73W)
Dimensions :
Length - 2,060 mm
Width - 720 mm
Height - 1,110 mm
Seat height - 835 mm
Wheel base - 1,415 mm
Minimum ground clearance - 135 mm
Dry weight - 177 kg
Beginning to Make a Choice
At this point you have some idea of what features are out there and you've given some thought to what your automobile will need to do for you. There are so many makes and models available, however, that you may need to narrow down the field; or, if the whole subject is a new one to you, you may feel the need for some suggestions.
Ask People - Ask your friends, neighbors, and relatives about the cars they own. Now is the time to ask your mechanic which make and models he or she recommends. Ask strangers how they like their vehicle if they're driving one you fancy. With the vast number of vehicles available, you need all the information you can find to narrow down the choices.
Auto Consultants - If you have no idea what kind of car you need or how to find it, the services of an auto consultant could be beneficial. They charge a flat fee (usually $100), and will usually come to your home or workplace to discuss your family's automotive wants, needs, and financial situation. When your session is over you should have a clear idea of what type of vehicle you need, and you should have some specific models to look at. Ask your friends if they can recommend an auto consultant. If not, check your yellow pages but be sure to ask for references and previous experience. Sales consultants are available free of charge at larger dealerships and used car superstores but of course their inventory influences their recommendations, so stick with an independent consultant. Some internet sites offer similar services for less money, but I prefer to talk face to face with a real automotive expert, and consider the $100 well spent.
The Notebook - A motor vehicle purchase is a major expense to be taken very seriously. I strongly recommend getting a 9"X12" combination notebook/portfolio for brochures and printouts, and for notes on prospective vehicles. Whenever you come across information that applies to your buying situation, write it down! When you take a vehicle on a test-drive, make sure to enter your observations in the notebook. If you print out a price list of recommended vehicles, put it in your portfolio. If a dealer gives you a brochure, put it in the portfolio. All of your information will be organized and available to you whenever you need it. Your portfolio will help you to organize your thoughts, and may provide a small insurance policy if confronted by an aggressive salesperson. Its very presence identifies you as a buyer who has done your homework. Good salespeople will be glad to see that: it only makes their job easier. Greedy salespeople won't be so happy. It shouldn't be too difficult for you to see the difference in their reactions.
The Next Step - This may be the time to go to some car lots -- new and used. It's really fun to look at all those different cars and trucks. Remember though, this trip is an informational excursion, not a buying trip. Leave checkbook and credit cards at home if you are prone to impulse buying. Be sure to take the notebook along on these visits. Keep notes on any serious prospects which may require a return visit. Use this trip to start determining the features you particularly want.
Ask People - Ask your friends, neighbors, and relatives about the cars they own. Now is the time to ask your mechanic which make and models he or she recommends. Ask strangers how they like their vehicle if they're driving one you fancy. With the vast number of vehicles available, you need all the information you can find to narrow down the choices.
Auto Consultants - If you have no idea what kind of car you need or how to find it, the services of an auto consultant could be beneficial. They charge a flat fee (usually $100), and will usually come to your home or workplace to discuss your family's automotive wants, needs, and financial situation. When your session is over you should have a clear idea of what type of vehicle you need, and you should have some specific models to look at. Ask your friends if they can recommend an auto consultant. If not, check your yellow pages but be sure to ask for references and previous experience. Sales consultants are available free of charge at larger dealerships and used car superstores but of course their inventory influences their recommendations, so stick with an independent consultant. Some internet sites offer similar services for less money, but I prefer to talk face to face with a real automotive expert, and consider the $100 well spent.
The Notebook - A motor vehicle purchase is a major expense to be taken very seriously. I strongly recommend getting a 9"X12" combination notebook/portfolio for brochures and printouts, and for notes on prospective vehicles. Whenever you come across information that applies to your buying situation, write it down! When you take a vehicle on a test-drive, make sure to enter your observations in the notebook. If you print out a price list of recommended vehicles, put it in your portfolio. If a dealer gives you a brochure, put it in the portfolio. All of your information will be organized and available to you whenever you need it. Your portfolio will help you to organize your thoughts, and may provide a small insurance policy if confronted by an aggressive salesperson. Its very presence identifies you as a buyer who has done your homework. Good salespeople will be glad to see that: it only makes their job easier. Greedy salespeople won't be so happy. It shouldn't be too difficult for you to see the difference in their reactions.
The Next Step - This may be the time to go to some car lots -- new and used. It's really fun to look at all those different cars and trucks. Remember though, this trip is an informational excursion, not a buying trip. Leave checkbook and credit cards at home if you are prone to impulse buying. Be sure to take the notebook along on these visits. Keep notes on any serious prospects which may require a return visit. Use this trip to start determining the features you particularly want.
Transmissions - Driveline Options - AWD - 4WD
Transmissions - Manual or Automatic?
Manufacturers don't offer many manual transmissions anymore, at least not in North America. Some people (like myself) find that a car with a clutch and standard shift is infinitely more fun to drive and offers better control in slippery situations. The downside to a manually-equipped model is their strikingly low resale value (usually 20% to 30% less than comparable automatics). However, a low resale value benefits you if you want to buy a used stick-shift.
I don't recommend buying a stick if the bulk of your driving is stop-and-go urban travel. I love manual transmissions, but reconsider their benefits every time I get stuck in a traffic jam. Backed-up interstate highways are the worst. If you've never owned one, I strongly suggest you borrow one for a few days before deciding to purchase one.
Driveline Options - Front Wheel Drive (FWD) - Rear Wheel Drive (RWD) - All Wheel Drive (AWD) - Four Wheel Drive (4WD)
Front-Wheel Drive - Most of today's minivans and under-$35,000 cars have front-wheel drive. In a front-wheel drive system, power from the engine is transferred to the front tires of a vehicle. A front- wheel drive vehicle offers increased traction and safety for the average driver. With 60 to 70% of the vehicle's weight over the drive wheels, front-wheel drive vehicles provide better drivability in inclement weather and snow. But, since the front brakes and tires handle 75% of a vehicle's braking, more frequent brake and tire inspections are recommended.
Rear-Wheel Drive - Most pickup trucks, sports cars, and luxury sports sedans have rear-wheel drive, in which power from the engine is transferred to the rear tires. The weight of the vehicle is more evenly distributed (50% front end - 50% back end), allowing the rear tires and suspension to work more efficiently, creating better cornering and stopping power and a smoother ride.
All-Wheel Drive - All-wheel drive offers the best of both worlds. In an all-wheel drive system, power is distributed to all four of the vehicle's tires, all of the time. Subaru and Audi have built their reputations on all-wheel-drive sedans and wagons. All-wheel drive passenger vehicles handle better than most front- AND rear-wheel drive vehicles.
Four-Wheel Drive - Many SUVs offer all-wheel drive as an option, with four-wheel drive as standard equipment. In a four-wheel drive system, power is delivered to all four wheels, only when the driver requests it. In normal use, four-wheel drive vehicles operate on rear-wheel drive. If additional traction is required, the driver flips a lever that switches the transaxle from two-wheel (rear) drive to four-wheel drive. This system is useful for off-road vehicles, snow plows, and tow trucks.
Manufacturers don't offer many manual transmissions anymore, at least not in North America. Some people (like myself) find that a car with a clutch and standard shift is infinitely more fun to drive and offers better control in slippery situations. The downside to a manually-equipped model is their strikingly low resale value (usually 20% to 30% less than comparable automatics). However, a low resale value benefits you if you want to buy a used stick-shift.
I don't recommend buying a stick if the bulk of your driving is stop-and-go urban travel. I love manual transmissions, but reconsider their benefits every time I get stuck in a traffic jam. Backed-up interstate highways are the worst. If you've never owned one, I strongly suggest you borrow one for a few days before deciding to purchase one.
Driveline Options - Front Wheel Drive (FWD) - Rear Wheel Drive (RWD) - All Wheel Drive (AWD) - Four Wheel Drive (4WD)
Front-Wheel Drive - Most of today's minivans and under-$35,000 cars have front-wheel drive. In a front-wheel drive system, power from the engine is transferred to the front tires of a vehicle. A front- wheel drive vehicle offers increased traction and safety for the average driver. With 60 to 70% of the vehicle's weight over the drive wheels, front-wheel drive vehicles provide better drivability in inclement weather and snow. But, since the front brakes and tires handle 75% of a vehicle's braking, more frequent brake and tire inspections are recommended.
Rear-Wheel Drive - Most pickup trucks, sports cars, and luxury sports sedans have rear-wheel drive, in which power from the engine is transferred to the rear tires. The weight of the vehicle is more evenly distributed (50% front end - 50% back end), allowing the rear tires and suspension to work more efficiently, creating better cornering and stopping power and a smoother ride.
All-Wheel Drive - All-wheel drive offers the best of both worlds. In an all-wheel drive system, power is distributed to all four of the vehicle's tires, all of the time. Subaru and Audi have built their reputations on all-wheel-drive sedans and wagons. All-wheel drive passenger vehicles handle better than most front- AND rear-wheel drive vehicles.
Four-Wheel Drive - Many SUVs offer all-wheel drive as an option, with four-wheel drive as standard equipment. In a four-wheel drive system, power is delivered to all four wheels, only when the driver requests it. In normal use, four-wheel drive vehicles operate on rear-wheel drive. If additional traction is required, the driver flips a lever that switches the transaxle from two-wheel (rear) drive to four-wheel drive. This system is useful for off-road vehicles, snow plows, and tow trucks.
Reliability - Economy - Performance - Handling
Reliability - If peace of mind, trouble-free driving, and a high level of reliability are important factors for you, a late-model or new vehicle may be necessary. New-car warranties are more comprehensive, backed by solid companies, and last for longer periods of time than the extended warranties you may get with a used car. According to consumer polling organizations, Acura, Honda, Lexus, Toyota, and Mercedes-Benz produce the most reliable vehicles in today's new and used car marketplace. Don't rule out American and European manufacturers, though, as their reliability has increased tremendously in the past 10 years. Remember, a reliable car will only stay that way as long as you maintain it properly.
Gas Mileage - EPA gas mileage results are listed on the window stickers of all new vehicles. The current high-mileage champs are the Honda Insight and Toyota Prius, both averaging around 70 miles per gallon. At the other extreme of the scale lies the Ford Excursion, with around 12 mpg. Compare the statistics. With gasoline at $2.00 per gallon, and the average driver traveling around 15,000 miles in a year, the Insight's gasoline bill would be $428.00 for the entire year, while the Excursion pays a whopping $2,500.00. Therein lies the second major problem faced by the onslaught of SUV's: not only are they 6 times as likely to kill, they consume 6 times more petroleum than the most fuel efficient vehicle. I'm not suggesting that you shop on gas mileage alone, but be aware of more fuel-efficient alternatives. For example, a Subaru Outback Limited wagon has roughly the same interior dimensions as a Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited. They both have full-time all-wheel-drive and they have the same luxury equipment. The Jeep costs about $8000 more than the Legacy (most of it profit for Daimler-Chrysler). However, that's not the only difference between them. The Legacy averages 28 miles per gallon on the highway, while the V-8 powered Jeep gets 60 % of that (17 mpg). Using highway mileage, their 15,000 mile fuel expenses come out to $1071.00 for the Subaru and $1764.00 for the Jeep. (That $693.00 difference in gasoline savings is just the beginning: insurance rates for SUVs run significantly higher than for cars, because they cause more damage in accidents, are more likely to roll over, and are costlier to fix.)
Performance - Performance has become an important safety feature for modern drivers. A responsive gas pedal allows you another option (brake or accelerate) when an accident unfolds before you. Good performance allows you to pass slow-moving vehicles on country roads, and to merge into fast-moving feeder lanes on expressways. Fast thinking and a responsive throttle can help you to avoid an accident that a slower vehicle couldn't.
When evaluating a vehicle, take a close look at the engine size (expressed in liters), the number of cylinders (4, 6, or 8), and the engine's power output (expressed in horsepower). By comparing the horsepower of two different vehicles with the same drive train and overall weight, you can determine which vehicle is faster, or has the better performance. A lighter car will be faster than a heavier one if the horsepower is the same. An engine's strength (expressed as torque) is determined by two factors, the number of cylinders and its horsepower. A six-cylinder engine with 140 horsepower will have more torque than a four-cylinder engine with the same horsepower rating.
Double overhead cam (DOHC)-equipped engines offer many advantages over single overhead cam (SOHC) engines. Because DOHC engines have twice as many intake and exhaust valves as a SOHC motor, they run cooler and more smoothly, quietly, and efficiently. To ensure against costly DOHC engine repairs, make sure you change your engine's timing belt every 60,000 miles.
Performance-minded shoppers may be looking for turbocharged or supercharged vehicles. These have performance-enhancing devices that re-utilize the engine's exhaust flow (turbocharger) or excess torque (supercharger) to increase the horsepower.
If you're looking for a powerful engine, make sure that it's balanced with good brakes, a sports suspension and performance tires. Be aware that they can also increase your insurance premiums, especially if you're a younger driver. Handling - Modern sedans have come a long way since the days of the land yacht. Most new vehicles offer responsive handling while still maintaining a very comfortable ride. The latest Audi A4 and BMW 5 series are two of the best-handling sedans I've ever driven. If you're as concerned about handling as I am, take all the cars you're considering on extended road tests. I highly recommend road-testing more than one SUV as well. Some of the worst-handling vehicles I've ever driven have been big, late-model SUVs (e.g.: Jeep Grand Cherokee).
Options & Accessories: Preferred Equipment I Consider Neccessary
If not already standard, most of these features are usually combined in a "preferred equipment" group. Since it's the equipment that most people prefer, and improves safety in the ways I describe, why don't manufacturers make it standard to begin with?
1. An important feature, standard on most vehicles, is air conditioning. If it isn't, be prepared to pay over $1000 to have it installed. When the time comes to sell, a vehicle without air conditioning will have much lower resale value, and be harder to dispose of. Air conditioning helps clear fogged up windows during inclement weather, in addition to providing comfort to a driver on long trips.
2. Look for cup-holders located away from important vehicle controls (heat, vents, AC, radio). Make sure that they're sturdy, and can securely hold a beverage in the event of a sudden stop or accident avoidance maneuver (some of them won't).
3. Tilt or adjustable steering wheels are another item usually found as standard equipment. They enable different-sized drivers to reposition the steering wheel for comfort and safety, allowing the instrument panel to be visible at all times.
4. If you do any expressway driving, cruise control is essential. Cruise control eliminates driver fatigue on long journeys, in addition to keeping your insurance rates low (helps you avoid speeding tickets).
5. A manual or power adjustable driver's seat is another device that should be standard on every vehicle. Look for a driver's seat with adjustable lumbar support as well. On long trips, the comfort of the driver is an oft-forgotten safety consideration. Combined with an adjustable steering column and remote control mirrors, adjustable seating offers good visibility (a major safety concern) to any sized driver.
6. Remote control/power adjustable left and right side mirrors enable different drivers to see the traffic around them, no matter what their driving position.
7. Central-locking and remote keyless entry systems allow the driver to lock and unlock all the doors from one location, improving safety as well as adding convenience.
8. Power windows may be necessary for toll highway users or if you use parking lots or garages requiring a card or code for entry
Safety Considerations : Weight Matters
Safety - Safety should be your most important consideration when looking for a new or used motor vehicle. Every year they publish crash-test results from the Federal Government's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). In addition to the most current information, they feature safety data on older cars, which lets you assess used cars.
Safety Considerations - Safety should be your most important consideration when looking for a new or used motor vehicle. Every year they publish crash-test results from the Federal Government's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). In addition to the most current information, they feature safety data on older cars, which lets you assess used cars.
I divide safety into three categories: the weight of a vehicle, passive safety features that help people stay alive and uninjured in a crash, and active safety features that help drivers avoid accidents. Larger, heavier cars with poor ratings may easily produce better results than smaller cars with good ratings. (See the next section, Weight Matters.) In addition to a car that crashes well (Passive Safety), you should look for a car that can avoid a crash altogether (Active Safety). Keep in mind that all of this testing was done with test dummies wearing seat belts and shoulder harnesses. Without them, a 15 mile per hour crash could prove fatal.
Four-wheel-drive pick-up trucks and sport utility vehicles (SUVs) are designed to be driven for work, hauling, and off-road purposes. They were not designed to be people movers, and don't handle nearly as well as passenger cars or mini vans. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that SUVs are four times more likely to roll over than passenger cars in high-speed maneuvers. In addition, SUV-to-car collisions are six times more likely to kill the occupants of the smaller vehicle when compared to a normal car-to-car collision. You may be safer inside an SUV, but you're at greater risk of killing others in the event of an accident.
Weight Matters - All cars must meet US Department Of Transportation standards for crash-worthiness. Larger and heavier cars, however, are usually safer in a collision than smaller ones. If a heavier vehicle collides head-on with a lighter one, the lighter will suffer substantially more damage. Drivers under 20 experience a much higher percentage of traffic fatalities when compared to other drivers, so consider the safety of a large or mid-sized sedan for inexperienced drivers. Large cars offer increased levels of comfort and roominess when compared to their smaller siblings, and today's fuel injected engines allow mid-sized, 6-cylinder automobiles to enjoy remarkably good gas mileage.
Passive Safety Features - Passive safety features help drivers and passengers stay alive and uninjured in a crash. Size is a safety feature: bigger is safer. In relation to their numbers on the road, small cars account for more than twice as many deaths as large cars.Restraint systems are also crucial. Safety belts are the best safety device ever developed for the automobile. First installed in the 1950s, they have been mandatory equipment since 1967. Initial use was low (20% in 1970), but education and legislation increased their usage to over 70% by 1987. Modern restraints have automatic seat-belt pre-tensioners to pick up the slack and stretch that occurs in an accident, providing better occupant protection and additional space for the airbag deployment. It's important to remember that even though airbags help reduce serious injuries, safety belts are still needed for full protection. Seat belts and airbags work together in a collision. Driver and passenger-side airbags are now standard equipment on every new motor vehicle sold in the US. Most used cars made after 1996 have them as well. Side-impact airbags greatly increase protection. Most European automakers offer them as standard equipment, and most Asian and domestic manufacturers offer them on their more expensive models. Despite some bad press, airbags save thousands of lives every year. Manufacturers have reintroduced the two-stage airbag (designed at GM in 1970) to avoid potential injuries to children and small adults from cheaper one-stage designs. It's still vital, however, that children ride in the back seat of any motor vehicle.
(A word about disconnecting airbags. Babies or children under 4' 7" should NEVER ride in the front seat of a vehicle because rapidly inflating airbags can severly injure or kill small front seat occupants. If there's a child in your future and you have a two-seater, ask your dealer to install a disconnect switch for the passenger-side airbag. You don't want it permanently disconnected; airbags DO save adult lives.)
Most automobile headrests provide little protection in rear-end accidents. European automobiles rate far better than domestic or Asian models in this area. The federal government required their installation in 1967, but haven't provided standards for their successful implementation. An effective headrest is one that's directly behind the centerline of the head and positioned no more than a couple of inches away. Be aware that some seating options change the size and style of head restraint.
Structural integrity is another important component of passive safety. The US Department of Transportation requires that the doors and passenger compartments of automobiles made after 1996 meet minimal side impact standards. The legislation doesn't apply to light trucks (minivans, pickups, SUVs), but most manufacturers of even these vehicles have complied with the law.
Active Safety Features - Active safety features help drivers avoid accidents. A vehicle's tires, brakes, handling, acceleration, and visibility all make important contributions to active crash avoidance. The most important safety items on a car are the tires. Think about it: they're all that connects your vehicle to the road. A good set of tires can make a huge difference to the way a car responds to emergency maneuvers. Tire quality also noticeably affects the way a car handles. Sport touring tires have much more grip than regular tires, although their softer compounds don't last as long.
Anti-lock brakes (ABS) are an often-misunderstood active safety feature. ABS helps you stop shorter and maintain steering control while braking, especially on slippery surfaces. Take time to understand how it works because in an abrupt stop, ABS feels noticeably different. With regular brakes, sudden stops tend to lock up the brakes, causing a skid. Anti-lock brakes sense when a wheel is locked and electronically pump the brakes ten times faster than you could do it, making a ratcheting noise and a vibration in the brake pedal. Old braking techniques must be unlearned in order to use ABS effectively. In a panic stop, depress the brake pedal once, and hold it down firmly. Do not pump the pedal as you normally would, because that defeats the system. To reiterate: antilock brakes eliminate the need for pedal pumping during panic stops or while braking during wet or icy conditions.
Traction Control is a worthwhile option that improves traction and directional stability on slippery roads, using a combination of electronics, drive train control, and ABS. Some systems adjust engine power output while gently applying the brakes to particular wheels during acceleration and cornering. BMW, Cadillac, and Mercedes-Benz offer new electronic stability-control systems on their higher-priced models. These systems help stabilize a vehicle's handling when it's pushed to the limits. Look for these systems to appear on less expensive models in the near future.
TYPES OF CARS
4-Door Sedans
Sedans are a good choice for most automobile shoppers. The enclosed trunk offers security, while the rear doors allow easy entry for rear-seat passengers. Most luxury vehicles are four-door sedans because they're more comfortable than most other body styles. The smallest available in the US are sub-compact sedans like the Hyundai Accent and Chevrolet Metro. Slightly larger are compact models like the Honda Civic and Ford Focus. Mid-size sedans include the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Ford Taurus, and Chevrolet Lumina, while the Ford Crown Victoria and Buick LeSabre are considered large sedans. Automotive marketers have created a new "near-luxury" sedan category, meaning any new sedan priced between $30,000 and $40,000, while the traditional luxury sedan costs over $40,000 when new. Near-luxury sedans are usually mid-sized; luxury sedans are usually large, though there are a few exceptions to the size and price limitations. 2-Door Coupes - Coupes are usually driven by single adults or childless couples. Many of them have a hatchback instead of a trunk, to allow large items to be carried for short distances. The rear seats are difficult to access, as the front doors must be used.
Station Wagons - An active family will want to look at minivans, sport utility vehicles, or station wagons. In the rest of the world, station wagons remain the first choice for active families. In North America, first minivans and now SUVs have grabbed most of the station wagon's customer base. I have to admit that many minivans now drive and handle much like the wagons they've replaced, but I don't understand the increasing popularity of large SUV's. They're twice as big as they need to be, but seat fewer people than a minivan; they get horrible gas mileage, and their truck-like ride and handling are rough. You'll pay substantially more to insure an SUV than a comparable automobile as a direct result of their poor handling. Many inexperienced drivers find out the hard way that SUVs don't corner like automobiles. I strongly suggest SUV shoppers reconsider and take another look at the station wagon. Station wagons offer more stability, better gas mileage, lower insurance rates, and SUV-sized interiors. You won't lose your all-wheel drive either, as Subaru, Volkswagen, Audi, Volvo, and Mercedes-Benz offer all-wheel drive on all of their wagons.
Convertibles - Most convertibles are sports cars, meaning two seats, high-performance engines and superior handling. However, GM, Ford, Mitsubishi, and Chrysler offer a few "normal" convertibles, i.e. regular production coupes with four seats and convertible tops, such as the Chevrolet Cavalier, Pontiac Sunfire, Ford Mustang, Dodge Avenger, Chrysler Conquest and Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder. Luxury convertibles are available from BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Saab, and Volvo. Convertibles are great when the weather's perfect, but their drawbacks are obvious.
Sports Cars - Sports cars were originally European two-seat roadsters designed for both daily travel and week-end racing hobbyists. A few 1950's manufacturers (notably Jaguar and Alfa-Romeo) put permanent tops on their roadsters, resulting in the sports coupe. The term sports-sedan is a more recent term to describe a four-door vehicle that handles like a sports coupe or roadster. Recently we've seen luxury cars advertised as luxury sports sedans. Porsche, selling traditional sports cars in this country since the 1950's, until recently had as its only competition the Chevrolet Corvette. 1990 marked the return of the affordable sports car in this country, when Mazda offered its MX-5 (Miata) for under $20,000 dollars, and the incredible demand for it prompted other companies to follow suit. BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi, and Porsche all introduced roadsters for under $40,000 in the latter part of the 1990's. At the same time, Dodge dealers begged Chrysler to produce a 1993 concept car to give the Corvette a run for the money. The Dodge Viper and Plymouth Prowler remain a success story for Chrysler, with this year's production already sold out. Sports cars are cool and fun to drive, though impractical for daily transportation. You'll need a garage to store them in, and a second mortgage to pay for their insurance. But if you've got money to burn, go for it!.
Mini-Vans - If you're constantly carting kids or cargo, a minivan may be your best choice. Most newer models offer an additional 4th door on the driver's side and offer comfortable seating for seven. Be aware of the different engines available. I highly recommend you elect to get the largest ( 3.5 & 3.8 liter) engine available in whatever minivan you decide upon. Positively avoid buying a 4-cylinder Dodge or Chrysler minivan, they're grossly underpowered and incapable of hauling heavy payloads for any distances. Most minivans are only available with front wheel drive, although Chrysler offers an optional all-wheel-drive system on certain models. According to Crashtest, the Ford Windstar, Toyota Sienna, and '99 - '02 Honda Odyssey are three of the safest vehicles on the road today. In addition, minivans drive and handle just like a car, with the bonus of better visibility due to a higher center of gravity and an upright driving position. Don't look for minivans to handle your boat or trailer towing duties, as front wheel drive vehicles have a very limited towing capacity.
Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) - I mentioned in the Station Wagon category how I regard SUVs. For more information read my review of Keith Bradsher's controversial new book, (Public Affairs, $28). Although they're designed for off-road usage, 98% of them never leave the road, fortunately for our wildernesses. If a wagon isn't for you, the car-like SUV's ride and handle significantly better than the rest. They include the Acura MDX, BMW X-5, Lexus RX 300, and Mercedes-Benz ML320, ML430, and AMG-tuned ML55.
SUVs come in three sizes:
1) Small: Toyota RAV4, Kia Sportage, Honda CRV, Chevrolet Tracker, and Suzuki Grand Vitara.
2) Medium: Acura MDX, Dodge Durango, BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz M-Class, Lexus RX300, Nissan Pathfinder, Nissan Xterra, Infiniti QX4, Ford Explorer, Ford Escape, Mercury Mountaineer, Hyundai Sante Fe, Jeep Cherokee, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Liberty, Chevrolet Blazer, Chevrolet Trailblazer, GMC Envoy, Oldsmobile Bravada, Honda Passport, Isuzu Rodeo, Isuzu Trooper, Isuzu Amigo, Toyota 4Runner, Land Rover Discovery, Land Rover Defender, Mitsubishi Montero, Mitsubishi Montero Sport, Mazda Tribute, and Toyota Highlander.
3) Large: Toyota Land Cruiser, Lexus LX470, Toyota Sequoia, Lincoln Navigator, Lincoln Blackwood, Ford Expedition, Ford Excursion, Land Rover Range Rover, Chevrolet Suburban, Chevrolet Tahoe, GMC Yukon, GMC Yukon XL, GMC Denali, and Cadillac Escalade.
Pickup Trucks - More new pickup trucks are sold in this country than any other type of vehicle. The smaller models now offer quad or crew-cab four-door versions, with seating for 5 adults. Full-size models offer extended cabs with smaller third and fourth doors giving access to the rear seats. Standard rear-wheel drive versions don't handle well on snow or ice without a substantial amount of weight in the rear of the truck. When equipped with towing packages with 8- or 10-cylinder engines, these rear-wheel drive vehicles can tow large boats and trailers. Full-size 2-wheel and 4-wheel drive pickups get about 15 miles per gallon.
Vans - If you transport large amounts of cargo or need room for more than seven adults, a full-size van is your only option. They're available with and without windows and in payload capacities of over one ton. Extended vans can seat up to 15 adult passengers. Towing packages with 8- or 10-cylinder engines will allow these rear-wheel-drive vehicles to tow large boats and trailers.
Hybrid-Power - Hybrid-powered vehicles are the future of the industry, combining the benefits of an electric vehicle with the convenience of a gasoline-powered model. An electric motor handles normal stop-and-go travel and initial highway acceleration. A gasoline- or diesel-powered internal combustion engine kicks in when the vehicle gets to higher speeds. A sophisticated computer control system decides when to switch from one power plant to the other. At highway speeds the gasoline engine recharges the electric motor's batteries, so there's no need for external electric power. Both the Honda Civic and the Toyota Prius get 50+ mpg and are available now for a little over $20,000. Mid-sized hybrids such as the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry are becoming popular as are hybrid SUV's such as the Lexus RX400 and Ford Escape.
Hybrid Vehicles - This is a marketing term for vehicles that cross the boundaries implied by terms like truck, car, or van. The first hybrid was the Willys Jeepster, a 4-wheel-drive Jeep touring car with a convertible top and the carrying capacity of a station wagon. Although sport utility vehicles (SUVs) are now considered a separate class of vehicle, they are actually a hybrid cross between a truck and a station wagon car. The Mercedes-Benz ML 320 and ML430 are the only true SUVs, as they don't share a platform with any other car or truck. (See "Shared Platforms," below.) Most SUV's are built on automobile platforms or chassis. The Corolla is the basis for Toyota's RAV4, while the Camry provides the platform for the Lexus RX300. At Honda, the Civic chassis underlies the CRV; at Subaru, the Forester is based on the Impreza.
The incredibly successful Chrysler Mini Ram Van (aka Dodge Caravan, Plymouth Voyager) was another hybrid vehicle that eventually carved out its own category. When people speak of a van today, they're usually talking about the minivan, not the traditional truck-based carry-all van popular in the 60's and 70's. Although the idea originated at Ford, Chrysler brought the concept to fruition. The minivan started off as a cross between a light truck and a Chrysler K-car. The 1984 Dodge Caravan brought Chrysler Corporation back from the brink of financial ruin and made Lee Iaccoca a household name.
Audi, Volvo and Subaru marketing wizards have created hybrids of their own with the All Road, V70 Cross Country and Legacy Outback models. While retaining a car-like appearance, the Audi All Road (wagon), Volvo V70 Cross Country (wagon), and Subaru Outback (sedan & wagon) feature SUV-like body cladding, off-road driving lights, full time all-wheel-drive, and an increased riding height (distance from ground to chassis). Ford, General Motors, and Daimler-Chrysler have all shown concept vehicles in the same mold, and are seriously considering their manufacture. Four-door pickups have been a staple in the third world for many years. Many consider them to be the next big thing, so at this year's auto shows the manufacturers showed off some new hybrids based on the concept. Subaru is going to produce an Outback Wagon with a pickup bed in place of the rear cargo area (think of a four-door El Camino) and their GM relative, Pontiac, has recently introduced their own hybrid SUV/wagon aimed at GenXers called the Aztek (one of the ugliest vehicles that's ever made it into production).
Shared Platforms - "Platform" means a vehicle's suspension, drive train, and structural components. Large manufacturers with multiple divisions produce similar models under different nameplates. For example, although they look different, the new Chevrolet Monte Carlo shares its platform with the Chevrolet Impala and Pontiac Bonneville. The Pontiac Grand Prix, Oldsmobile Intrigue, and Buick Regal share another GM platform.
Most minivans don't even try to hide their lineage. The Chrysler Town & Country, Dodge Caravan, and Plymouth Voyager not only share the same platform, they look virtually identical as well. The same holds true for the Chevrolet Venture, Pontiac Montana, and Oldsmobile Silhouette, the minivan siblings from General Motors. Ford has its Expedition and Lincoln Navigator twins.
GM, Ford and Chrysler realize that brand loyalty remains an important factor in North American marketing, so look for the domestic siblings and twins to continue for the immediate future. There are numerous examples of shared platforms and look-alike siblings in all vehicle areas. The Lexus ES330 is really a Toyota Camry, while Ford's Lincoln LS and Jaguar S-Type luxury sedans share the same platform. The Nissan Pathfinder and Infiniti QX4 are virtually identical, as are Nissan's Maxima and Infiniti I30.
Volkswagen is the leader in successful shared platform marketing. With only four platforms to choose from, they manufacture over 30 different vehicles around the world. Believe it or not, the Volkswagen Beetle and Audi TT sit on the same chassis as the Volkswagen Jetta, Volkswagen Golf, Audi A3 (not sold in the US), and various Skoda and SEAT offerings in Europe.
The world's automotive industry increasingly depends on shared platforms. They enable manufacturers to market essentially identical vehicles to different market segments, to help recoup research and development costs. Manufacturers sometimes share development costs and facilities, resulting in model twins and even triplets. For example, the Nissan Quest is identical to the Mercury Villager, while the Isuzu Rodeo, Honda Passport, and Chevrolet Frontera (European model) are all built on the same Isuzu assembly line.
Sedans are a good choice for most automobile shoppers. The enclosed trunk offers security, while the rear doors allow easy entry for rear-seat passengers. Most luxury vehicles are four-door sedans because they're more comfortable than most other body styles. The smallest available in the US are sub-compact sedans like the Hyundai Accent and Chevrolet Metro. Slightly larger are compact models like the Honda Civic and Ford Focus. Mid-size sedans include the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Ford Taurus, and Chevrolet Lumina, while the Ford Crown Victoria and Buick LeSabre are considered large sedans. Automotive marketers have created a new "near-luxury" sedan category, meaning any new sedan priced between $30,000 and $40,000, while the traditional luxury sedan costs over $40,000 when new. Near-luxury sedans are usually mid-sized; luxury sedans are usually large, though there are a few exceptions to the size and price limitations. 2-Door Coupes - Coupes are usually driven by single adults or childless couples. Many of them have a hatchback instead of a trunk, to allow large items to be carried for short distances. The rear seats are difficult to access, as the front doors must be used.
Station Wagons - An active family will want to look at minivans, sport utility vehicles, or station wagons. In the rest of the world, station wagons remain the first choice for active families. In North America, first minivans and now SUVs have grabbed most of the station wagon's customer base. I have to admit that many minivans now drive and handle much like the wagons they've replaced, but I don't understand the increasing popularity of large SUV's. They're twice as big as they need to be, but seat fewer people than a minivan; they get horrible gas mileage, and their truck-like ride and handling are rough. You'll pay substantially more to insure an SUV than a comparable automobile as a direct result of their poor handling. Many inexperienced drivers find out the hard way that SUVs don't corner like automobiles. I strongly suggest SUV shoppers reconsider and take another look at the station wagon. Station wagons offer more stability, better gas mileage, lower insurance rates, and SUV-sized interiors. You won't lose your all-wheel drive either, as Subaru, Volkswagen, Audi, Volvo, and Mercedes-Benz offer all-wheel drive on all of their wagons.
Convertibles - Most convertibles are sports cars, meaning two seats, high-performance engines and superior handling. However, GM, Ford, Mitsubishi, and Chrysler offer a few "normal" convertibles, i.e. regular production coupes with four seats and convertible tops, such as the Chevrolet Cavalier, Pontiac Sunfire, Ford Mustang, Dodge Avenger, Chrysler Conquest and Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder. Luxury convertibles are available from BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Saab, and Volvo. Convertibles are great when the weather's perfect, but their drawbacks are obvious.
Sports Cars - Sports cars were originally European two-seat roadsters designed for both daily travel and week-end racing hobbyists. A few 1950's manufacturers (notably Jaguar and Alfa-Romeo) put permanent tops on their roadsters, resulting in the sports coupe. The term sports-sedan is a more recent term to describe a four-door vehicle that handles like a sports coupe or roadster. Recently we've seen luxury cars advertised as luxury sports sedans. Porsche, selling traditional sports cars in this country since the 1950's, until recently had as its only competition the Chevrolet Corvette. 1990 marked the return of the affordable sports car in this country, when Mazda offered its MX-5 (Miata) for under $20,000 dollars, and the incredible demand for it prompted other companies to follow suit. BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi, and Porsche all introduced roadsters for under $40,000 in the latter part of the 1990's. At the same time, Dodge dealers begged Chrysler to produce a 1993 concept car to give the Corvette a run for the money. The Dodge Viper and Plymouth Prowler remain a success story for Chrysler, with this year's production already sold out. Sports cars are cool and fun to drive, though impractical for daily transportation. You'll need a garage to store them in, and a second mortgage to pay for their insurance. But if you've got money to burn, go for it!.
Mini-Vans - If you're constantly carting kids or cargo, a minivan may be your best choice. Most newer models offer an additional 4th door on the driver's side and offer comfortable seating for seven. Be aware of the different engines available. I highly recommend you elect to get the largest ( 3.5 & 3.8 liter) engine available in whatever minivan you decide upon. Positively avoid buying a 4-cylinder Dodge or Chrysler minivan, they're grossly underpowered and incapable of hauling heavy payloads for any distances. Most minivans are only available with front wheel drive, although Chrysler offers an optional all-wheel-drive system on certain models. According to Crashtest, the Ford Windstar, Toyota Sienna, and '99 - '02 Honda Odyssey are three of the safest vehicles on the road today. In addition, minivans drive and handle just like a car, with the bonus of better visibility due to a higher center of gravity and an upright driving position. Don't look for minivans to handle your boat or trailer towing duties, as front wheel drive vehicles have a very limited towing capacity.
Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) - I mentioned in the Station Wagon category how I regard SUVs. For more information read my review of Keith Bradsher's controversial new book, (Public Affairs, $28). Although they're designed for off-road usage, 98% of them never leave the road, fortunately for our wildernesses. If a wagon isn't for you, the car-like SUV's ride and handle significantly better than the rest. They include the Acura MDX, BMW X-5, Lexus RX 300, and Mercedes-Benz ML320, ML430, and AMG-tuned ML55.
SUVs come in three sizes:
1) Small: Toyota RAV4, Kia Sportage, Honda CRV, Chevrolet Tracker, and Suzuki Grand Vitara.
2) Medium: Acura MDX, Dodge Durango, BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz M-Class, Lexus RX300, Nissan Pathfinder, Nissan Xterra, Infiniti QX4, Ford Explorer, Ford Escape, Mercury Mountaineer, Hyundai Sante Fe, Jeep Cherokee, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Liberty, Chevrolet Blazer, Chevrolet Trailblazer, GMC Envoy, Oldsmobile Bravada, Honda Passport, Isuzu Rodeo, Isuzu Trooper, Isuzu Amigo, Toyota 4Runner, Land Rover Discovery, Land Rover Defender, Mitsubishi Montero, Mitsubishi Montero Sport, Mazda Tribute, and Toyota Highlander.
3) Large: Toyota Land Cruiser, Lexus LX470, Toyota Sequoia, Lincoln Navigator, Lincoln Blackwood, Ford Expedition, Ford Excursion, Land Rover Range Rover, Chevrolet Suburban, Chevrolet Tahoe, GMC Yukon, GMC Yukon XL, GMC Denali, and Cadillac Escalade.
Pickup Trucks - More new pickup trucks are sold in this country than any other type of vehicle. The smaller models now offer quad or crew-cab four-door versions, with seating for 5 adults. Full-size models offer extended cabs with smaller third and fourth doors giving access to the rear seats. Standard rear-wheel drive versions don't handle well on snow or ice without a substantial amount of weight in the rear of the truck. When equipped with towing packages with 8- or 10-cylinder engines, these rear-wheel drive vehicles can tow large boats and trailers. Full-size 2-wheel and 4-wheel drive pickups get about 15 miles per gallon.
Vans - If you transport large amounts of cargo or need room for more than seven adults, a full-size van is your only option. They're available with and without windows and in payload capacities of over one ton. Extended vans can seat up to 15 adult passengers. Towing packages with 8- or 10-cylinder engines will allow these rear-wheel-drive vehicles to tow large boats and trailers.
Hybrid-Power - Hybrid-powered vehicles are the future of the industry, combining the benefits of an electric vehicle with the convenience of a gasoline-powered model. An electric motor handles normal stop-and-go travel and initial highway acceleration. A gasoline- or diesel-powered internal combustion engine kicks in when the vehicle gets to higher speeds. A sophisticated computer control system decides when to switch from one power plant to the other. At highway speeds the gasoline engine recharges the electric motor's batteries, so there's no need for external electric power. Both the Honda Civic and the Toyota Prius get 50+ mpg and are available now for a little over $20,000. Mid-sized hybrids such as the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry are becoming popular as are hybrid SUV's such as the Lexus RX400 and Ford Escape.
Hybrid Vehicles - This is a marketing term for vehicles that cross the boundaries implied by terms like truck, car, or van. The first hybrid was the Willys Jeepster, a 4-wheel-drive Jeep touring car with a convertible top and the carrying capacity of a station wagon. Although sport utility vehicles (SUVs) are now considered a separate class of vehicle, they are actually a hybrid cross between a truck and a station wagon car. The Mercedes-Benz ML 320 and ML430 are the only true SUVs, as they don't share a platform with any other car or truck. (See "Shared Platforms," below.) Most SUV's are built on automobile platforms or chassis. The Corolla is the basis for Toyota's RAV4, while the Camry provides the platform for the Lexus RX300. At Honda, the Civic chassis underlies the CRV; at Subaru, the Forester is based on the Impreza.
The incredibly successful Chrysler Mini Ram Van (aka Dodge Caravan, Plymouth Voyager) was another hybrid vehicle that eventually carved out its own category. When people speak of a van today, they're usually talking about the minivan, not the traditional truck-based carry-all van popular in the 60's and 70's. Although the idea originated at Ford, Chrysler brought the concept to fruition. The minivan started off as a cross between a light truck and a Chrysler K-car. The 1984 Dodge Caravan brought Chrysler Corporation back from the brink of financial ruin and made Lee Iaccoca a household name.
Audi, Volvo and Subaru marketing wizards have created hybrids of their own with the All Road, V70 Cross Country and Legacy Outback models. While retaining a car-like appearance, the Audi All Road (wagon), Volvo V70 Cross Country (wagon), and Subaru Outback (sedan & wagon) feature SUV-like body cladding, off-road driving lights, full time all-wheel-drive, and an increased riding height (distance from ground to chassis). Ford, General Motors, and Daimler-Chrysler have all shown concept vehicles in the same mold, and are seriously considering their manufacture. Four-door pickups have been a staple in the third world for many years. Many consider them to be the next big thing, so at this year's auto shows the manufacturers showed off some new hybrids based on the concept. Subaru is going to produce an Outback Wagon with a pickup bed in place of the rear cargo area (think of a four-door El Camino) and their GM relative, Pontiac, has recently introduced their own hybrid SUV/wagon aimed at GenXers called the Aztek (one of the ugliest vehicles that's ever made it into production).
Shared Platforms - "Platform" means a vehicle's suspension, drive train, and structural components. Large manufacturers with multiple divisions produce similar models under different nameplates. For example, although they look different, the new Chevrolet Monte Carlo shares its platform with the Chevrolet Impala and Pontiac Bonneville. The Pontiac Grand Prix, Oldsmobile Intrigue, and Buick Regal share another GM platform.
Most minivans don't even try to hide their lineage. The Chrysler Town & Country, Dodge Caravan, and Plymouth Voyager not only share the same platform, they look virtually identical as well. The same holds true for the Chevrolet Venture, Pontiac Montana, and Oldsmobile Silhouette, the minivan siblings from General Motors. Ford has its Expedition and Lincoln Navigator twins.
GM, Ford and Chrysler realize that brand loyalty remains an important factor in North American marketing, so look for the domestic siblings and twins to continue for the immediate future. There are numerous examples of shared platforms and look-alike siblings in all vehicle areas. The Lexus ES330 is really a Toyota Camry, while Ford's Lincoln LS and Jaguar S-Type luxury sedans share the same platform. The Nissan Pathfinder and Infiniti QX4 are virtually identical, as are Nissan's Maxima and Infiniti I30.
Volkswagen is the leader in successful shared platform marketing. With only four platforms to choose from, they manufacture over 30 different vehicles around the world. Believe it or not, the Volkswagen Beetle and Audi TT sit on the same chassis as the Volkswagen Jetta, Volkswagen Golf, Audi A3 (not sold in the US), and various Skoda and SEAT offerings in Europe.
The world's automotive industry increasingly depends on shared platforms. They enable manufacturers to market essentially identical vehicles to different market segments, to help recoup research and development costs. Manufacturers sometimes share development costs and facilities, resulting in model twins and even triplets. For example, the Nissan Quest is identical to the Mercury Villager, while the Isuzu Rodeo, Honda Passport, and Chevrolet Frontera (European model) are all built on the same Isuzu assembly line.
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