News stories this week are about the Telsa S Sedan. As you may have heard this is their electric sedan which is targeted at people with a couple of bucks. Priced at $57,400 you can get a $7,500 federal tax credit, which means a $49,900 bottom line. Certainly not an electric car for the masses.
The company's goal is to release the car in the third quarter of 2011, with an annual goal of 20,000 units by mid 2012. It will be interesting to see if they can meet this goal. If the economy does not turn around, then I have major doubts that this pricing will work.
Some of the interesting details: Seating for 7, which as one reviewer said means 5 adults and 2 children. 1,200 lb battery pack for a total weight of just over 4,000 lbs. This standard battery gives a range of around 160 miles with a "fast charge" option of 45 minutes. Not bad at all, but will this convince people to spend so much when Honda is aiming its electric/gas at around $20,000.
I guess your choice is a pure electric or a hybrid at much less. Here is a picture:
http://content.zdnet.com/2347-9595_22-282271-282274.html?seq=3
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Friday, March 27, 2009
Sunday, March 22, 2009
K&N Cold Air Intakes for Accord
There are a lot of different companies producing cold air intakes for Honda Accords. In the last couple of blogs I discussed AEM three different types for Accords. Now let's take a look at another companies offerings.
K&E is known world wide for their filters, both air and oil. I have a K&E air filter in my Ferrari and there were several reasons for choosing it.
First it was a lifetime filter, and I would never have to replace it. Second was that it improved my horsepower because it was less restrictive than a stock air filter.
Both of these reasons are why you might consider a K&N Cold Air Intake. The K&N product also gives you the benefit of cold incoming air, which we know will produce more horsepower than hot engine air.
Two interesting things about the K&N cold air system is that they publish horsepower figures for their systems, and offer an outstanding guarantee, unlike many cheap competitors. Like the AEM systems all of the K&N systems are tuned for your specific car brand, year and trim model.
For Honda Accords the model is called the 69 Series Typhoon Kits. The horsepower increase ranges from around 4 horsepower to 10.4 horsepower, depending upon your unique Accord model. They only have this one type of series rather than three systems like the AEM brand. However, you know in advance what you will receive in the way of horsepower and torque and you get a brand that is instantly recognized.
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K&N Cold Air Intake
N&N Cold Air Intake
K&E is known world wide for their filters, both air and oil. I have a K&E air filter in my Ferrari and there were several reasons for choosing it.
First it was a lifetime filter, and I would never have to replace it. Second was that it improved my horsepower because it was less restrictive than a stock air filter.
Both of these reasons are why you might consider a K&N Cold Air Intake. The K&N product also gives you the benefit of cold incoming air, which we know will produce more horsepower than hot engine air.
Two interesting things about the K&N cold air system is that they publish horsepower figures for their systems, and offer an outstanding guarantee, unlike many cheap competitors. Like the AEM systems all of the K&N systems are tuned for your specific car brand, year and trim model.
For Honda Accords the model is called the 69 Series Typhoon Kits. The horsepower increase ranges from around 4 horsepower to 10.4 horsepower, depending upon your unique Accord model. They only have this one type of series rather than three systems like the AEM brand. However, you know in advance what you will receive in the way of horsepower and torque and you get a brand that is instantly recognized.
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K&N Cold Air Intake
N&N Cold Air Intake
Saturday, March 21, 2009
AEM V2 Intake
The next step up from a short ram intake to a cold air intake is the AEM V2 intake. AEM has been making intakes for a number of years and has an excellent reputation. Their V2 system uses a patented design that has a dual chamber design. This they claim increases both horsepower and torque beyond their other popular systems like the cold air system.
The dual chamber uses two different diameter pipes of different lengths, which create multiple frequencies of sound waves in the incoming air. This produces the widest band of power increase of all of their products. An interesting feature of all systems is that the length of the input pipe has a major bearing on the amount of power the system can deliver, and on the rpm range where this power occurs. AEM has found that not all of their V2 systems require that the inlet be placed outside of the engine compartment, in order to maximize the power. In these cases the inlet filter is placed in the coolest part of the engine cavity to minimize the amount of hot air being drawn in.
The V2 system also comes standard with their DryFlow synthetic air filter. This filter has a lifetime guarantee and is unique in that it does not use oil to aid in filtration. If more power, deeper sounds and a great looking system are something you are thinking about, the AEM v2 is one you should check out.
AEM V2 Intake System for Honda Accord
The dual chamber uses two different diameter pipes of different lengths, which create multiple frequencies of sound waves in the incoming air. This produces the widest band of power increase of all of their products. An interesting feature of all systems is that the length of the input pipe has a major bearing on the amount of power the system can deliver, and on the rpm range where this power occurs. AEM has found that not all of their V2 systems require that the inlet be placed outside of the engine compartment, in order to maximize the power. In these cases the inlet filter is placed in the coolest part of the engine cavity to minimize the amount of hot air being drawn in.
The V2 system also comes standard with their DryFlow synthetic air filter. This filter has a lifetime guarantee and is unique in that it does not use oil to aid in filtration. If more power, deeper sounds and a great looking system are something you are thinking about, the AEM v2 is one you should check out.
AEM V2 Intake System for Honda Accord
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Friday, March 20, 2009
Cold Air Intake
Yesterday I discussed Short Ram Intakes as a way to increase the horsepower output of your engine. The next step up is a Cold Air Intake. The major difference between the two products is that the Short Ram intake has it's filter and inlet inside the engine compartment. This means that it draws in hotter air, which has less oxygen and power potential than the air outside the car.
The Cold Air Intake has longer tubes and the filter inlet is positioned somewhere in the car so that it can draw in cooler outside air. Depending on the brand of air intake and the car you have, the inlet can be positioned inside a fender well or behind the front bumper.
In some cases an existing hole in the sheet metal must be widened to fit the tubes. All in all the installation of the Cold Air Intake will take longer and a little higher degree of mechanical skills than the installation of the Short Ram system.
There is another downside to the Cold Air Intake system. And that is drawing in water if you went through a very deep puddle and the filter became wet. This could cause a hydro lock and damage the engine. While very few people experience this condition it is better to be safe. Depending on the brand of Cold Air Intake you purchase there are a couple of ways to avoid this problem. Some systems offer a cover for the filter, which allows air to flow in but stops water. Another system may have an optional valve in the tubing which will also stop water. A third approach is a system that can be converted from a Short Ram to a Cold Air and back. Using this system you would run a Short Ram in the winter or wet weather and convert it to a Cold Air system in the summer when there is no danger of inhaling water.
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AEM Cold Air Intake for Honda Accord
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The Cold Air Intake has longer tubes and the filter inlet is positioned somewhere in the car so that it can draw in cooler outside air. Depending on the brand of air intake and the car you have, the inlet can be positioned inside a fender well or behind the front bumper.
In some cases an existing hole in the sheet metal must be widened to fit the tubes. All in all the installation of the Cold Air Intake will take longer and a little higher degree of mechanical skills than the installation of the Short Ram system.
There is another downside to the Cold Air Intake system. And that is drawing in water if you went through a very deep puddle and the filter became wet. This could cause a hydro lock and damage the engine. While very few people experience this condition it is better to be safe. Depending on the brand of Cold Air Intake you purchase there are a couple of ways to avoid this problem. Some systems offer a cover for the filter, which allows air to flow in but stops water. Another system may have an optional valve in the tubing which will also stop water. A third approach is a system that can be converted from a Short Ram to a Cold Air and back. Using this system you would run a Short Ram in the winter or wet weather and convert it to a Cold Air system in the summer when there is no danger of inhaling water.
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AEM Cold Air Intake for Honda Accord
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Thursday, March 19, 2009
Short Ram Intakes
Now its time to talk about how to improve your stock car. The first step that most people take is to improve the air flow into the engine. Why? because inside the combustion chambers the air mixes with fuel and is burned to produce power. The key ingredient in the air is oxygen. So if you can increase the air flow containing oxygen you can add more fuel and increase your horsepower.
The stock air box and filter on most cars was designed to reduce the noise of the engine sucking air in. It was also typically made as inexpensively as possible. A third problem is that on some cars the inlet was positioned in a spot that allowed the engine to heat the air flowing into the engine. What's the problem? The basic problem is that cold air is denser than hot air, and the denser the air the more oxygen it carries. So the hotter the air entering the engine the less oxygen and horsepower potential it contains.
To improve the air flow and increase the horsepower of a car, the first step that most people take is to remove all of the factory restricting air passages before the throttle body. You then have several choices in replacement parts. The typical answer for many is using a Short Ram Intake. This is usually a tube that has a filter on the inlet end and the other end connects to the throttle body.
How does this help produce horsepower? First the tubes are designed so that air flows without a lot of noise reducing restrictions. Second, the typical Short Ram Intake filters are also designed to trap particles but allow the maximum amount of air flow. So between these two devices more air is allowed and more power is the result. Another result is an increase in the engine sounds when you step on it. The lack of restrictions allow you to hear the engine roar, and this is another major reason the Short Ram Intake is used.
Finally most of these systems are made of colored or highly polished materials and they add a nice touch to the engine compartment.
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AEM Cold Air Intake
AEM Cold Air Intake
The stock air box and filter on most cars was designed to reduce the noise of the engine sucking air in. It was also typically made as inexpensively as possible. A third problem is that on some cars the inlet was positioned in a spot that allowed the engine to heat the air flowing into the engine. What's the problem? The basic problem is that cold air is denser than hot air, and the denser the air the more oxygen it carries. So the hotter the air entering the engine the less oxygen and horsepower potential it contains.
To improve the air flow and increase the horsepower of a car, the first step that most people take is to remove all of the factory restricting air passages before the throttle body. You then have several choices in replacement parts. The typical answer for many is using a Short Ram Intake. This is usually a tube that has a filter on the inlet end and the other end connects to the throttle body.
How does this help produce horsepower? First the tubes are designed so that air flows without a lot of noise reducing restrictions. Second, the typical Short Ram Intake filters are also designed to trap particles but allow the maximum amount of air flow. So between these two devices more air is allowed and more power is the result. Another result is an increase in the engine sounds when you step on it. The lack of restrictions allow you to hear the engine roar, and this is another major reason the Short Ram Intake is used.
Finally most of these systems are made of colored or highly polished materials and they add a nice touch to the engine compartment.
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AEM Cold Air Intake
AEM Cold Air Intake
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
More Power for Your Car
For the next few blogs I'd like to discuss some products that can help increase horsepower in your car.
There are various kinds of car owners. Most purchase and drive cars in order to get from point A to point B. A car is a tool and no more enjoyable than any other tool or machine that they might use.
However, for a much smaller group of people a car is more than a means of transportation. I can't put it into words, but its more like an idea or ideal. Yes its made up of steel and other materials like other machines, but some almost seem to have a heart. They give you something extra. They help fill your life. It may be a passion or just a keen interest, but it's something that you spend time thinking about or doing something about or doing something with.
As I read the above, it sounds a little lame. But from my standpoint collecting stamps is something I don't understand, so I don't expect non car people to understand my interest in cars.
Anyway, one thing I have noticed about people who enjoy cars is that almost all of them would like some more power. It doesn't seem to make any difference in how powerful the stock vehicle is. We just want more.
So I'll be blogging about how to get some of this power with after market parts.
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Honda Accord Performance Parts
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There are various kinds of car owners. Most purchase and drive cars in order to get from point A to point B. A car is a tool and no more enjoyable than any other tool or machine that they might use.
However, for a much smaller group of people a car is more than a means of transportation. I can't put it into words, but its more like an idea or ideal. Yes its made up of steel and other materials like other machines, but some almost seem to have a heart. They give you something extra. They help fill your life. It may be a passion or just a keen interest, but it's something that you spend time thinking about or doing something about or doing something with.
As I read the above, it sounds a little lame. But from my standpoint collecting stamps is something I don't understand, so I don't expect non car people to understand my interest in cars.
Anyway, one thing I have noticed about people who enjoy cars is that almost all of them would like some more power. It doesn't seem to make any difference in how powerful the stock vehicle is. We just want more.
So I'll be blogging about how to get some of this power with after market parts.
Comments or E-mail me
Honda Accord Performance Parts
Honda Accord Appearance Parts
Thanks for visiting.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Formula One | Major Changes
There was a meeting of formula one Governing body today. As a result there were some major changes made. One of the most critical was that the Formula One Championship will be decided based on the number of wins, and not as it used to be based on a point system. If the new method had been in place last year, the Ferrari driver Felipe Massa would have been the 2008 champion as he won six races compared to the 2008 champion Lewis Hamilton who won only five races.
The article I read was a little confusing, as the point system has not completely gone away. In case of a tie the point system will be used. It will also be used for ranking all of the other drivers after the champion. This organization makes nothing easy.
There is a proposed cap of $42 million per year per team. Not sure if this one will pass or not. The governing body also accepted the new Brawn team's purchase of the Honda racing team, and allowed the new team to compete without the normal entry fee.
A couple of other major announcements were made. One was that the teams could have eight one-day aerodynamic tests during the course of the season instead of the former total ban on in-season testing.
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The article I read was a little confusing, as the point system has not completely gone away. In case of a tie the point system will be used. It will also be used for ranking all of the other drivers after the champion. This organization makes nothing easy.
There is a proposed cap of $42 million per year per team. Not sure if this one will pass or not. The governing body also accepted the new Brawn team's purchase of the Honda racing team, and allowed the new team to compete without the normal entry fee.
A couple of other major announcements were made. One was that the teams could have eight one-day aerodynamic tests during the course of the season instead of the former total ban on in-season testing.
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Sunday, March 15, 2009
Honda Accord Diesel
The Ayrshire Post.net has just reported on the new Accord Diesel. Yes that's right a diesel. This is Honda's second generation diesel, and of course you can't get one over here. I guess Honda felt that the United States market was not ready for this type of car.
The Accord Diesel is called the 2.2 iDTECES. Please don't ask me what all of those letters mean - I'm only an American and I don't speak English. Anyway the basic specs are:
148bph
2.199cc engine (I guess that's the reason for the 2.2 in the name)
6 speed manual gear box
4cyl diesel engine driving front wheels
0-62mph: 9.6 seconds (I know that European cars are reported as 0-62 mph vs. our 0-60mph. I'm not sure why, does any reader know? If so please advise)
Max speed 132mph (which seems low by American standards, but when was the last time you did over 132mph?). The last time I saw that number I was a passenger in a Lambo, and we were still in the city limits.
And the killer number (drum roll please) Combined mpg: 50.4
Only question I have is that gallons as we think of them or the imperial gallon which take you a little farther?
Price £20,690 for the ES version. This one I can figure out: $28,906.
Well, is there a diesel in your future?
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AEM Cold Air Intake
AEM Cold Air Intake
The Accord Diesel is called the 2.2 iDTECES. Please don't ask me what all of those letters mean - I'm only an American and I don't speak English. Anyway the basic specs are:
148bph
2.199cc engine (I guess that's the reason for the 2.2 in the name)
6 speed manual gear box
4cyl diesel engine driving front wheels
0-62mph: 9.6 seconds (I know that European cars are reported as 0-62 mph vs. our 0-60mph. I'm not sure why, does any reader know? If so please advise)
Max speed 132mph (which seems low by American standards, but when was the last time you did over 132mph?). The last time I saw that number I was a passenger in a Lambo, and we were still in the city limits.
And the killer number (drum roll please) Combined mpg: 50.4
Only question I have is that gallons as we think of them or the imperial gallon which take you a little farther?
Price £20,690 for the ES version. This one I can figure out: $28,906.
Well, is there a diesel in your future?
Comments or E-mail me
AEM Cold Air Intake
AEM Cold Air Intake
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Jaguar World Sales Up in 2008
If you are a member of a Jaguar Club you should have received the Jaguar Journal for January-February 2009. This is the official publication of the Jaguar Clubs of North America. It has various articles about new and old Jags, advertisements for new and old jags, articles about members, and the latest news about the Jaguar Brand.
One of the interesting things to me in this issue was their statement that Jag sales were up in 2008. That at first did not sound right. From what I remember Jag sales have been falling every year, and a year ago they shut down one of their historic manufacturing plants, and late last year Jaguar was sold to an Indian company.
The total sales for the company in 2008 was 65,000 car which is 7% more than in 2007. Sales were up by 50% in Russia, 35% in the Middle East, and 25% in China. They did not report total sales in North America, but everyone agrees that they were down by a major amount.
What caused the overall increase? It appears that there were two major reasons. First was the introduction of the Jaguar XF model, which replaced the S model. The XF is selling very well and it is a much better looking car. The second major reason was diesel-powered models in Europe. In 2009 Jaguar continues the introduction of the next generation with both diesel and gas powered vehicles for the European marketplace. However, there do not seem to be any plans to bring the diesels to the North American market. Sells great in Europe, but not available in the US. What do you think of that strategy?
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AEM Cold Air Intake
AEM Cold Air Intake
One of the interesting things to me in this issue was their statement that Jag sales were up in 2008. That at first did not sound right. From what I remember Jag sales have been falling every year, and a year ago they shut down one of their historic manufacturing plants, and late last year Jaguar was sold to an Indian company.
The total sales for the company in 2008 was 65,000 car which is 7% more than in 2007. Sales were up by 50% in Russia, 35% in the Middle East, and 25% in China. They did not report total sales in North America, but everyone agrees that they were down by a major amount.
What caused the overall increase? It appears that there were two major reasons. First was the introduction of the Jaguar XF model, which replaced the S model. The XF is selling very well and it is a much better looking car. The second major reason was diesel-powered models in Europe. In 2009 Jaguar continues the introduction of the next generation with both diesel and gas powered vehicles for the European marketplace. However, there do not seem to be any plans to bring the diesels to the North American market. Sells great in Europe, but not available in the US. What do you think of that strategy?
Comments or E-mail me
AEM Cold Air Intake
AEM Cold Air Intake
Friday, March 13, 2009
Cold Air Intake vs. Short Ram Intake
A question that comes up when people are interested in improving the air flow in their car and the resultant increase in power is which one should I get? A cold air intake or a short ram intake. There is no clear cut answer, unless you look at some of the advantages and disadvantages of each.
Both systems replace the stock tubes and air box of your car, because the stock system was designed with restrictions, which reduced noise, but at the same time restricted potential horsepower. So either replacement will increase horsepower and noise.
The Cold Air Intake system has longer tubes and is designed so that the inlet with the filter is positioned outside of the engine compartment. This allows colder, more dense air to be drawn in. The colder the air, the more oxygen it can carry and deliver more power. However the installation is more complicated, and may involve cutting into the car to get the tubes positioned either behind the front bumper or in the wheel well.
The Short Ram Intake has shorter tubes and fits entirely within the engine compartment. The installation is much easier. Some systems have a shield around the inlet filter to reduce some of the engine heat.
One downside potential with the Cold Air Intake is the possibility of drawing in water from the wheel well when going through a deep puddle. This water can harm the engine. Two solutions are possible, one with a cover on the filter that stops water and the other uses a valve which will stop the water. The Short Ram does not have this problem.
In many, but not all cases, the Cold Air Intake will deliver more horsepower at a higher rpm, but it might take a little longer because of the longer air flow. So if you want your power at lower rpms, the Short Ram is a better choice.
Another factor is cost. The Short Ram Intake has less parts and is less expensive.
One additional factor is a dual purpose combination. In the winter or wet weather it is a Short Ram, and in the summer you convert it to a Cold Air Intake.
Take your pick.
Comments or E-mail me
AEM Cold Air Intake
AEM Cold Air Intake
Both systems replace the stock tubes and air box of your car, because the stock system was designed with restrictions, which reduced noise, but at the same time restricted potential horsepower. So either replacement will increase horsepower and noise.
The Cold Air Intake system has longer tubes and is designed so that the inlet with the filter is positioned outside of the engine compartment. This allows colder, more dense air to be drawn in. The colder the air, the more oxygen it can carry and deliver more power. However the installation is more complicated, and may involve cutting into the car to get the tubes positioned either behind the front bumper or in the wheel well.
The Short Ram Intake has shorter tubes and fits entirely within the engine compartment. The installation is much easier. Some systems have a shield around the inlet filter to reduce some of the engine heat.
One downside potential with the Cold Air Intake is the possibility of drawing in water from the wheel well when going through a deep puddle. This water can harm the engine. Two solutions are possible, one with a cover on the filter that stops water and the other uses a valve which will stop the water. The Short Ram does not have this problem.
In many, but not all cases, the Cold Air Intake will deliver more horsepower at a higher rpm, but it might take a little longer because of the longer air flow. So if you want your power at lower rpms, the Short Ram is a better choice.
Another factor is cost. The Short Ram Intake has less parts and is less expensive.
One additional factor is a dual purpose combination. In the winter or wet weather it is a Short Ram, and in the summer you convert it to a Cold Air Intake.
Take your pick.
Comments or E-mail me
AEM Cold Air Intake
AEM Cold Air Intake
Thursday, March 12, 2009
1939 Auto Union 'D-Type'
Sports Car market email has an article about one of the most valuable racing cars that will be auctioned off at the Bonhams & Butterfields auction on August 14th at the Quail Lodge in Carmel California.
This is a historic machine that was handled by Auto Union factory team drivers Rudolf Hasse and Hans Stuck. It is unique for its rear-mounted 3-liter twin-stage supercharged V12-cylinder engine.
According to the article "it is one of the classic car world’s most charismatic machines, and is exquisitely well-restored to running order. In a world hungry for genuine intrinsic value, it has much to commend it." While the car is 70 years old its specifications are still impressive. How about a 3-cam V12-cylinder engine developed some 420bhp in 1938 single-stage supercharged form, rising to some 485bhp at 7,000rpm when two-stage supercharging was adopted for 1939. My three liter Ferrari only generates 2335bhp. I guess I had better find a supercharger!
How much will this treasure go for? That's an interesting question. The article suggests north of 8 million dollars. I guess everyone is not down in this economy.
Comments or E-mail me
AEM Cold Air Intake
AEM Cold Air Intake
This is a historic machine that was handled by Auto Union factory team drivers Rudolf Hasse and Hans Stuck. It is unique for its rear-mounted 3-liter twin-stage supercharged V12-cylinder engine.
According to the article "it is one of the classic car world’s most charismatic machines, and is exquisitely well-restored to running order. In a world hungry for genuine intrinsic value, it has much to commend it." While the car is 70 years old its specifications are still impressive. How about a 3-cam V12-cylinder engine developed some 420bhp in 1938 single-stage supercharged form, rising to some 485bhp at 7,000rpm when two-stage supercharging was adopted for 1939. My three liter Ferrari only generates 2335bhp. I guess I had better find a supercharger!
How much will this treasure go for? That's an interesting question. The article suggests north of 8 million dollars. I guess everyone is not down in this economy.
Comments or E-mail me
AEM Cold Air Intake
AEM Cold Air Intake
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
What Does Consumers Reports Think of the Accord?
Consumer Reports sums up their opinion of the 2009 Accord as follows:
"The Accord is one of the best family sedans. It has a roomy cabin, agile handling, and a steady, compliant ride. Most controls are logically arranged. The driving position is excellent, the seats are supportive and visibility is impressive. The automatic is smooth and responsive. The four-cylinder engine is smoother than some V6s and gets 23 mpg. The V6 model is very quick and polished, but fuel economy of 21 mpg overall isn't as good as in the previous generation. Road noise is still a bit noticeable. ESC is standard"
If you were reviewing the Accord, what would you be saying?
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"The Accord is one of the best family sedans. It has a roomy cabin, agile handling, and a steady, compliant ride. Most controls are logically arranged. The driving position is excellent, the seats are supportive and visibility is impressive. The automatic is smooth and responsive. The four-cylinder engine is smoother than some V6s and gets 23 mpg. The V6 model is very quick and polished, but fuel economy of 21 mpg overall isn't as good as in the previous generation. Road noise is still a bit noticeable. ESC is standard"
If you were reviewing the Accord, what would you be saying?
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Honda Accord Performance Articles
Honda Accord Appearance Articles
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Consumer Reports Continued
Yesterday I reported that Honda ranked first as compared to all automakers with Subaru second and Toyota third. Consumers also had a variety of other types of comparisons. One was their listing of the "Top Picks - Best of the year in 10 categories:
Family Sedan: Honda Accord!!
Pickup Truck: Chevrolet Avalance
Fun to Drive: Mazda MX-5 Miata
Small SUV: Toyota RAV4
Small Sedan: Hyundai Elantra SE
Green Car: Toyota Prius
Minivan: Toyota Sienna
Best Overall Vehicle: Lexus LS 460
Upscale Sedan: Infiniti G37
Midsized SUV: Toyota Highlander
Well Toyota scored more top picks than Honda, but our Accord won in its group, so all is not lost.
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Family Sedan: Honda Accord!!
Pickup Truck: Chevrolet Avalance
Fun to Drive: Mazda MX-5 Miata
Small SUV: Toyota RAV4
Small Sedan: Hyundai Elantra SE
Green Car: Toyota Prius
Minivan: Toyota Sienna
Best Overall Vehicle: Lexus LS 460
Upscale Sedan: Infiniti G37
Midsized SUV: Toyota Highlander
Well Toyota scored more top picks than Honda, but our Accord won in its group, so all is not lost.
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Honda Accord Appearance Articles
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Monday, March 9, 2009
Consumer Reports Annual Auto Issue
Last week I received the April 2009 issue. There are a lot of interesting sections and data in this issue about best and worst cars. One interesting section on page 14 is called "Who makes the best cars? The answer was that overall the Japanese automakers get the highest marks.
Consumer's rated the carmakers in several different areas. The most critical was the Overall Score which was based on their average test score and average predicted-reliability rating. The top three companies were: Honda - 78, Subaru - 75, and Toyota - 74 in overall scores. For Honda some additional information. Average test score was also a 78. Reliability above average, Tested vehicles that were recommended: 95%.
As a comparison, here are the numbers from Chrysler, which was the bottom rated company. Overall Score: 48. Average test score: 52, Reliability, below average. Tested vehicles which were recommended: 0%.
Don't be mislead by my reporting that the Japanese companies were at the top, because not all of them were. Here are the Overall Score ratings for all companies:
Honda=78, Subaru=75, Toyota=74, Mazda=73, Mercedes-Benz=72, Nissan=72, Volkswagen=72, BMW=72, Hyundai=70, Volvo=65, Mitsubishi=64, Ford=63, Suzuki=60, General Motors=57, and Chrysler=48.
Tomorrow I'll report on some other findings in this issue.
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Consumer's rated the carmakers in several different areas. The most critical was the Overall Score which was based on their average test score and average predicted-reliability rating. The top three companies were: Honda - 78, Subaru - 75, and Toyota - 74 in overall scores. For Honda some additional information. Average test score was also a 78. Reliability above average, Tested vehicles that were recommended: 95%.
As a comparison, here are the numbers from Chrysler, which was the bottom rated company. Overall Score: 48. Average test score: 52, Reliability, below average. Tested vehicles which were recommended: 0%.
Don't be mislead by my reporting that the Japanese companies were at the top, because not all of them were. Here are the Overall Score ratings for all companies:
Honda=78, Subaru=75, Toyota=74, Mazda=73, Mercedes-Benz=72, Nissan=72, Volkswagen=72, BMW=72, Hyundai=70, Volvo=65, Mitsubishi=64, Ford=63, Suzuki=60, General Motors=57, and Chrysler=48.
Tomorrow I'll report on some other findings in this issue.
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Sunday, March 8, 2009
Bye Bye Heel and Toe?
I was reading a car mag and I came across an ad for the Nissan 370Z where they were stressing something they called "The Worlds First Synchrorev Manual Transmission". That certainly is a mouthful. I checked around on the web to find out what it really meant.
I found a statement on a forum:
"The new engine is backed by a choice of two new advanced transmissions, both designed to improve driver performance. The new close-ratio 6-speed manual includes an available world’s first synchronized downshift rev matching system, which allows drivers of any skill level to experience professional-like gear shift performance. The “SynchroRev Match” function automatically controls and adjusts engine speed when shifting to the exact speed of the next gear position, essentially “blipping” the throttle to smooth out any up/down shifts. This not only allows the driver to focus more on braking and steering, it improves vehicle balance and smoothness by reducing the typical “shock” when the clutch is engaged. The system can be deactivated with a button next to the shifter for drivers who prefer less vehicle intervention. The SynchroRev Match system is offered as part of the optional Sport Package."
So it looks like you can now downshift as if you were doing a "Heel and Toe" tap dance on the pedals without the danger of blowing something up. Appears that one more old fashion skill in driving a car is going away. I enjoyed trying to match the engine and transmission speeds on my sports cars when I down shifted. Never got too good at it, but always had fun trying. Now automation has taken that away.
What do you think? Would you rather master the Heel and Toe skill or would you like a machine to do it for you?
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I found a statement on a forum:
"The new engine is backed by a choice of two new advanced transmissions, both designed to improve driver performance. The new close-ratio 6-speed manual includes an available world’s first synchronized downshift rev matching system, which allows drivers of any skill level to experience professional-like gear shift performance. The “SynchroRev Match” function automatically controls and adjusts engine speed when shifting to the exact speed of the next gear position, essentially “blipping” the throttle to smooth out any up/down shifts. This not only allows the driver to focus more on braking and steering, it improves vehicle balance and smoothness by reducing the typical “shock” when the clutch is engaged. The system can be deactivated with a button next to the shifter for drivers who prefer less vehicle intervention. The SynchroRev Match system is offered as part of the optional Sport Package."
So it looks like you can now downshift as if you were doing a "Heel and Toe" tap dance on the pedals without the danger of blowing something up. Appears that one more old fashion skill in driving a car is going away. I enjoyed trying to match the engine and transmission speeds on my sports cars when I down shifted. Never got too good at it, but always had fun trying. Now automation has taken that away.
What do you think? Would you rather master the Heel and Toe skill or would you like a machine to do it for you?
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Saturday, March 7, 2009
Auction - Eight Figures and Counting!
That is one of the points being made by an article in the Collector Car Price Tracking email I received yesterday. What are they talking about? Well it seems that at the 22nd Dana Mecum Original Spring Classic Auction taking place May 13-17, 2009, in Indianapolis, Indiana, one of the six original 1965 Shelby Daytona Cobra Coupes will be up for sale to the highest bidder.
Let's see, (I have to use my fingers for this), I think that is $10 million or so. If the car goes for that number it will be the most expensive American car ever sold at an auction. So what is worth that kind of number? Well this is serial number CSX2601, which means that this car was one of the six that Carrol Shelby to compete against the dominating Ferrari in the F.I.A. (Federation Internationale de l'Automobile) World Manufacturers Championship for GT race class.
This particular car won the 1965 World Manufacturers Championship for the United States and Shelby American on July 4 in Reims, France. I had mixed feelings when I read this. On one hand I'm very proud to be an American, but on the other hand I always rooted for Ferrari, and here was the car that beat Enzo.
So from a historic standpoint it is a very rare car, and historic race cars seem to bring the most money at public auctions. Now who will purchase this gem? In today's economy it seems a little pricey for a public museum. My guess is a private collector who may acquire the car and then it will disappear from public view for a long, long time. While average cars have dropped in value this year, one of these rare ones will still bring the big bucks.
The auction will be on TV, so I'll be watching. Will you?
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Let's see, (I have to use my fingers for this), I think that is $10 million or so. If the car goes for that number it will be the most expensive American car ever sold at an auction. So what is worth that kind of number? Well this is serial number CSX2601, which means that this car was one of the six that Carrol Shelby to compete against the dominating Ferrari in the F.I.A. (Federation Internationale de l'Automobile) World Manufacturers Championship for GT race class.
This particular car won the 1965 World Manufacturers Championship for the United States and Shelby American on July 4 in Reims, France. I had mixed feelings when I read this. On one hand I'm very proud to be an American, but on the other hand I always rooted for Ferrari, and here was the car that beat Enzo.
So from a historic standpoint it is a very rare car, and historic race cars seem to bring the most money at public auctions. Now who will purchase this gem? In today's economy it seems a little pricey for a public museum. My guess is a private collector who may acquire the car and then it will disappear from public view for a long, long time. While average cars have dropped in value this year, one of these rare ones will still bring the big bucks.
The auction will be on TV, so I'll be watching. Will you?
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Friday, March 6, 2009
USA Formula One Team?
If you are interested in a formula one team for the USA, check out Nigel Roebuck's column in Autoweek of March 9, 2009. He reports that Ken Anderson and Peter Windsor are setting up an American team which will be based in Charlotte, N.C.
With the new emphasis on cost cutting, this is now a real possibility. Gone are the days when if you wanted to start a new team you had to post a $48 million dollar bond.
Now they still have to round up sponsors, and they are talking about a European base in Spain. It looks like it will be a relatively, small effort of about 120 in-house employees. Mr. Stebuck said that not too long ago the Ferrari team had ten times this number of employees.
There is a lot of support for a USF1 team. It sure would be nice to have our country get back in the formula one game. Perhaps down the road we will even have a formula one race in North America again.
As an aside, I attended a Ferrari Club board of director meeting last night. One of the topics was the idea of getting some of the members together to watch a formula one race this year. One of the problems is the time difference between when it is televised in our country. Looks like we could watch one race together, however we may have to start at 4:00am to watch a live race. Not sure I'm going to be there.
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With the new emphasis on cost cutting, this is now a real possibility. Gone are the days when if you wanted to start a new team you had to post a $48 million dollar bond.
Now they still have to round up sponsors, and they are talking about a European base in Spain. It looks like it will be a relatively, small effort of about 120 in-house employees. Mr. Stebuck said that not too long ago the Ferrari team had ten times this number of employees.
There is a lot of support for a USF1 team. It sure would be nice to have our country get back in the formula one game. Perhaps down the road we will even have a formula one race in North America again.
As an aside, I attended a Ferrari Club board of director meeting last night. One of the topics was the idea of getting some of the members together to watch a formula one race this year. One of the problems is the time difference between when it is televised in our country. Looks like we could watch one race together, however we may have to start at 4:00am to watch a live race. Not sure I'm going to be there.
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Thursday, March 5, 2009
Accord Details from Yesterday
Yesterday I reported that the Accord EX-L won the four sedan shootout in Car and Drivers April 2009 issue.
Some of the things the article mentioned were that this Accord was a full size car, which is based on interior room, and not the overall size car. For example, my wife's Jaguar is a large car on the outside, but rated as a "compact" because of interior room. One reviewer thought the Accord was too big and ugly. The other staffers did not hold with his view. Everyone seemed to agree that the five speed transmission needed one more gear because of "languid" in fifth gear. I think some of this is a little bit of the standard moving up. In my mind (and I understand its slipping a little) it was not too long ago that a reasonable automatic transmissions had three gears. Then it went to four and now five gears are not enough. If I remember correctly, one of the new Benz has a seven speed. Somehow I have the feeling we are getting spoiled.
One of the things that they did like was the steering. They called it "intuitive path control - you can place the car with complete confidence, right up to the limits of adhesion." That sounds good to me, because if the car does not handle, I don't want any part of it.
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Some of the things the article mentioned were that this Accord was a full size car, which is based on interior room, and not the overall size car. For example, my wife's Jaguar is a large car on the outside, but rated as a "compact" because of interior room. One reviewer thought the Accord was too big and ugly. The other staffers did not hold with his view. Everyone seemed to agree that the five speed transmission needed one more gear because of "languid" in fifth gear. I think some of this is a little bit of the standard moving up. In my mind (and I understand its slipping a little) it was not too long ago that a reasonable automatic transmissions had three gears. Then it went to four and now five gears are not enough. If I remember correctly, one of the new Benz has a seven speed. Somehow I have the feeling we are getting spoiled.
One of the things that they did like was the steering. They called it "intuitive path control - you can place the car with complete confidence, right up to the limits of adhesion." That sounds good to me, because if the car does not handle, I don't want any part of it.
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Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Accord Squeaks By
The April 2009 Car and Driver compared three family sedans in a head to head contest. They were the Honda Accord EX-L, the Ford Fusion SE (2010 model) and the Mazda 6 i Touring.
It came down to a split decision, but the Accord won the comparison. According to the article the highs on the Accord included: Sports-sedan reflexes, plenty of power, potent engine sounds, smooth ride, and lots of room. On the other hand, the lows included: Forgettable styling, center-stack button clutter, and where's the six-speed gearbox?
Even though it was close, it's like sports and elections. Someone or something won, and the others lost. That's the way it will go down in the history books. Now I would like to hear what the Ford and Mazda people are saying in their back rooms. I'm sure that they are analyzing the results very closely, and I would not doubt that they will be making some changes to their cars. Why? Because winning a contest like this is almost priceless from an advertising standpoint. If I was in their shoes I sure would be making some changes so that next year, my car would win.
Of course, we must also assume that the engineers and advertising people at Honda are also reading the results with a fine tooth comb. What do they have to do to insure that they win next year?
It will be interesting to see what all three companies come up with. One thing might be the slow movement to look alike and act alike, and cost alike, etc. This is one of the reasons I like the older classics. They were not designed to win contests like this, but rather reflect a particular design philosophy. Tomorrow more on the Accord in this contest.
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It came down to a split decision, but the Accord won the comparison. According to the article the highs on the Accord included: Sports-sedan reflexes, plenty of power, potent engine sounds, smooth ride, and lots of room. On the other hand, the lows included: Forgettable styling, center-stack button clutter, and where's the six-speed gearbox?
Even though it was close, it's like sports and elections. Someone or something won, and the others lost. That's the way it will go down in the history books. Now I would like to hear what the Ford and Mazda people are saying in their back rooms. I'm sure that they are analyzing the results very closely, and I would not doubt that they will be making some changes to their cars. Why? Because winning a contest like this is almost priceless from an advertising standpoint. If I was in their shoes I sure would be making some changes so that next year, my car would win.
Of course, we must also assume that the engineers and advertising people at Honda are also reading the results with a fine tooth comb. What do they have to do to insure that they win next year?
It will be interesting to see what all three companies come up with. One thing might be the slow movement to look alike and act alike, and cost alike, etc. This is one of the reasons I like the older classics. They were not designed to win contests like this, but rather reflect a particular design philosophy. Tomorrow more on the Accord in this contest.
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Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Credit Crunch Hits Toyota
The latest automobile manufacturer to hit the skids and seek special loans is Toyota Motor Company. Finding it difficult to raise money in the U.S., Toyota Motor is reportedly seeking emergency funding of about 200 billion yen ($2 billion) in dollars from a governmental institution in Japan to support its U.S. auto-financing operations.
So far, no other Japanese auto company has sought loans, but with little progress in any recovery, can Honda or other companies be far behind?
The Japanese government funded an emergency JBIC program late last year to provide loans and debt guarantees to help Japanese firms finance operations overseas. Today it was announced that the government will fund this program with 5 billion dollars. No firm word yet if Toyota will receive their requested money, but it odds are it will.
With the DOW drop yesterday to under 7,0000 and AIGs report of a staggering loss, no one or company seems safe any longer.
A minor bright spot I saw over the week end was a report that auto parts store have seen an increase in business, as more people are repairing what they have instead of purchasing a new or newer car.
In the last recession I noticed the same thing in home improvement stores. People were fixing up what they had instead of moving up.
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So far, no other Japanese auto company has sought loans, but with little progress in any recovery, can Honda or other companies be far behind?
The Japanese government funded an emergency JBIC program late last year to provide loans and debt guarantees to help Japanese firms finance operations overseas. Today it was announced that the government will fund this program with 5 billion dollars. No firm word yet if Toyota will receive their requested money, but it odds are it will.
With the DOW drop yesterday to under 7,0000 and AIGs report of a staggering loss, no one or company seems safe any longer.
A minor bright spot I saw over the week end was a report that auto parts store have seen an increase in business, as more people are repairing what they have instead of purchasing a new or newer car.
In the last recession I noticed the same thing in home improvement stores. People were fixing up what they had instead of moving up.
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Monday, March 2, 2009
Honda Accord Achieves Top Euro NCAP Safety Rating
Everyone who looks at this blog, comes here because they may be interested in cars and especially powerful and unique cars. However, less we forget, sometimes, through no fault of your own, you can get in an accident.
While I really prefer the looks of older sports cars to the design of new cars, I have to admit that the newer cars are much safer. This is of course the same on more family oriented cars. Yesterday was the news about the Honda Accord achieving the top rating in the Euro NCAP Safety Rating.
The NCAP ratings have just undergone a change on how they rate cars. Under the old system the Accord received a 5 star adult occupant, 4 star child occupant and 3 star pedestrian protection scores. The new system has changed.
According to the FleetDirectory.co.uk. "The new rating scheme uses a weighted score, combining many aspects of a car’s safety performance: adult (50 per cent), child (20 per cent) and pedestrian (20 per cent) protection assessment results with the availability of safety assistance devices (10 per cent)." To get five stars under the new system the car must score at least a 70. The new Accord received a score of 78.
The article goes into a great deal of information about special safety features of the new accord. Tomorrow I'll cover some of them. If you can't wait:
http://www.fleetdirectory.co.uk/fleet-news/index.php/2009/02/28/honda-accord-achieves-top-euro-ncap-safety-rating/
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While I really prefer the looks of older sports cars to the design of new cars, I have to admit that the newer cars are much safer. This is of course the same on more family oriented cars. Yesterday was the news about the Honda Accord achieving the top rating in the Euro NCAP Safety Rating.
The NCAP ratings have just undergone a change on how they rate cars. Under the old system the Accord received a 5 star adult occupant, 4 star child occupant and 3 star pedestrian protection scores. The new system has changed.
According to the FleetDirectory.co.uk. "The new rating scheme uses a weighted score, combining many aspects of a car’s safety performance: adult (50 per cent), child (20 per cent) and pedestrian (20 per cent) protection assessment results with the availability of safety assistance devices (10 per cent)." To get five stars under the new system the car must score at least a 70. The new Accord received a score of 78.
The article goes into a great deal of information about special safety features of the new accord. Tomorrow I'll cover some of them. If you can't wait:
http://www.fleetdirectory.co.uk/fleet-news/index.php/2009/02/28/honda-accord-achieves-top-euro-ncap-safety-rating/
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Sunday, March 1, 2009
Honda Formula One - Who's Buying It?
Each day it seems there is another rumor about who will take over the Honda team. I'm waiting for a bid by Disney World. Well it seems that the participants who might buy the team are becoming a smaller and smaller group. Last week I thought Virgin Airlines might be the final bidder. But no. Today in the news The Daily Telegraph (of Paris?) said that "that chief executive Nick Fry, team principal Ross Brawn and three other directors have convinced Honda's board in Tokyo to hand over a sum, believed to be in excess of 100 million dollars, to enable the new team to continue racing in 2009 at least."
I'm still trying to figure that statement out. Are the buyer's paying Honda or is Honda paying them? Could not tell from that report.
As part of the story it did mention that Honda's chief driver Jenson Button would be forced to take a pay cut of 7.5 million dollars while around 300 jobs would be lost at the team's base in Brackley, central England.
That has got to be a blow to someone. Imagine having to take an almost 8 million dollar pay cut. Wow. Now that's a bad day. Of course the alternative would be to see no one buy the team, and everyone taking a 100% pay cut.
Well it will be an interesting formula one season which starts in just four weeks. Lots of cuts, changes in rules and less teams.
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I'm still trying to figure that statement out. Are the buyer's paying Honda or is Honda paying them? Could not tell from that report.
As part of the story it did mention that Honda's chief driver Jenson Button would be forced to take a pay cut of 7.5 million dollars while around 300 jobs would be lost at the team's base in Brackley, central England.
That has got to be a blow to someone. Imagine having to take an almost 8 million dollar pay cut. Wow. Now that's a bad day. Of course the alternative would be to see no one buy the team, and everyone taking a 100% pay cut.
Well it will be an interesting formula one season which starts in just four weeks. Lots of cuts, changes in rules and less teams.
Comments or E-mail me
Honda Accord Performance Articles
Honda Accord Appearance Articles
Thanks for visiting.
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