Car Thread

[Pax Britannia]

I never drove the few times i've been to America. Driving on the wrong side of the road would probably be too trippy for me.

[Hoser]

I see the Elise everyday. Theres one parked at the end of my street.

You are in the UK, i'm just a tad west of you in california, Lotus is not that common around here.

I see them about 3 or 4 times a month.

[Hoser]

I never drove the few times i've been to America. Driving on the wrong side of the road would probably be too trippy for me.

When I drove in Oz for the first time I pulled out on the wrong side of the street. But after that things were fine.

[Claydon]

I see the Elise everyday. Theres one parked at the end of my street.

You are in the UK, i'm just a tad west of you in california, Lotus is not that common around here.

I see them about 3 or 4 times a month.

Usually the higher end sports cars I see out here are ferraris, lotus is not that common at least in my experience. There are a few dealerships in los angeles of course and I am sure you trip over these cars in bel air and beverly hills.

[Hoser]

We see Ferraris andLambos and all that fun stuff here.

I think the place I saw the most high end cars in a short period of time constantly was in Surfers Paradise.

Vantage, F40, Diablo, 360, Mucri. SLR, DB7 and so on and so forth.

The best part was I only saw 1 truck, a GM 2500. It was nice not having them everywhere.

[Pax Britannia]

I never drove the few times i've been to America. Driving on the wrong side of the road would probably be too trippy for me.

When I drove in Oz for the first time I pulled out on the wrong side of the street. But after that things were fine.

I guess i'd get used to it. The GTA games always throw me initially with the different driving lanes but I eventually get used to it.

[TylerDurden]

I see the Elise everyday. Theres one parked at the end of my street.

You are in the UK, i'm just a tad west of you in california, Lotus is not that common around here.

I see them about 3 or 4 times a month.

Usually the higher end sports cars I see out here are ferraris, lotus is not that common at least in my experience. There are a few dealerships in los angeles of course and I am sure you trip over these cars in bel air and beverly hills.

the elise is found rather plentifully here in central illinois. a friend of mine bought one to race with... fuckin' things are amazing bang-for-the-buck.

[Claydon]

the elise is found rather plentifully here in central illinois. a friend of mine bought one to race with... fuckin' things are amazing bang-for-the-buck.

they are pretty fucking slick.

I am stunned these pics are even worth a shit, I was like going 90mph and trying to take these pics while driving.

[}{arlequin]

the elise is found rather plentifully here in central illinois. a friend of mine bought one to race with... fuckin' things are amazing bang-for-the-buck.
the real gem is the factory built racer. amazing out of the box, fully prepped, susp, cage etc etc.... though it adds anothe 15k to the price (and you lose the passenger seat...)



http://img142.imagevenue.com/loc1005/th_54674_nasa_237_122_1005lo.jpg (http://img142.imagevenue.com/img.php?image=54674_nasa_237_122_1005lo.jpg)http://img143.imagevenue.com/loc374/th_54677_nasa_253_122_374lo.jpg (http://img143.imagevenue.com/img.php?image=54677_nasa_253_122_374lo.jpg)http://img220.imagevenue.com/loc130/th_54694_nasa_254_122_130lo.jpg (http://img220.imagevenue.com/img.php?image=54694_nasa_254_122_130lo.jpg)http://img108.imagevenue.com/loc659/th_54697_nasavir_061_122_659lo.jpg (http://img108.imagevenue.com/img.php?image=54697_nasavir_061_122_659lo.jpg)

[Gary_Busey]

No offense H, but could you have made your car any uglier?

[}{arlequin]

i've seen it done.

funny enough, i was shopping for a 92-93 model in black, when i came across this one. the color is typical 70's vintage (we call it 'period correct'), and the truth is, when you're dealing w/ a car that's over 30 yrs old, your priority becomes a chassis that is straight and rust free. everything else, including color, is secondary.

i'm all for all-black, but the green has grown on me. since it already looks like a squished toad, might as well take the reptile theme and run w/ it

[Gary_Busey]

I guess it's the theme that throws me off.

[}{arlequin]

no worries, it looked even worse when i was changing the front end. i think the all-black bottom helped a bit, but i've picked up some wrinkled sheetmetal along the way which isn't helping any. then again, it's not meant to be a creampuff. next season, a black hood.



http://img227.imagevenue.com/loc208/th_56489_n700654593_221107_6964_122_208lo.jpg (http://img227.imagevenue.com/img.php?image=56489_n700654593_221107_6964_122_208 lo.jpg)http://img197.imagevenue.com/loc521/th_56497_n700654593_775253_137_122_521lo.jpg (http://img197.imagevenue.com/img.php?image=56497_n700654593_775253_137_122_521l o.jpg)http://img145.imagevenue.com/loc1095/th_56503_204871710-O-1_122_1095lo.jpg (http://img145.imagevenue.com/img.php?image=56503_204871710-O-1_122_1095lo.jpg)

[Hoser]

God I love this car

C4Xl0i4uNGU-YMcE-01sJs
R6SQqc0fSuIix3AE_SdQvs
zt-sK4Fd94Q

[Pax Britannia]

I was in a car accident on Friday that totalled both cars. So I guess i'm in the market again. Any suggestions?

[}{arlequin]

http://i37.tinypic.com/ajxxdc.jpg

[}{arlequin]

this just may pwn the original 'le mans'
http://www.truthin24.com/

WxhoHT1bdUg

[Claydon]

So I saw quantum of solace last night finally, and well....it should be illegal and a mortal sin to do what they did to that aston martin.

[Don Scrappy]

So I saw quantum of solace last night finally, and well....it should be illegal and a mortal sin to do what they did to that aston martin.

they also wrecked one in casino royale, but I think during filming of solace they actually totaled a real aston.

[}{arlequin]

ferrari motorcycle.

screw the akira bike, i just came


http://thumbnails11.imagebam.com/1996/df6c5f19955683.gif (http://www.imagebam.com/image/df6c5f19955683) http://thumbnails13.imagebam.com/1996/dbb5c419955686.gif (http://www.imagebam.com/image/dbb5c419955686) http://thumbnails3.imagebam.com/1996/ff973c19955688.gif (http://www.imagebam.com/image/ff973c19955688) http://thumbnails13.imagebam.com/1996/e34d7f19955690.gif (http://www.imagebam.com/image/e34d7f19955690) http://thumbnails11.imagebam.com/1996/857cb219955692.gif (http://www.imagebam.com/image/857cb219955692) http://thumbnails12.imagebam.com/1996/2bc80a19955694.gif (http://www.imagebam.com/image/2bc80a19955694) http://thumbnails6.imagebam.com/1996/224f1619955696.gif (http://www.imagebam.com/image/224f1619955696) http://thumbnails13.imagebam.com/1996/f4396119955698.gif (http://www.imagebam.com/image/f4396119955698) http://thumbnails12.imagebam.com/1996/fbb54019955699.gif (http://www.imagebam.com/image/fbb54019955699) http://thumbnails12.imagebam.com/1996/bdf97b19955700.gif (http://www.imagebam.com/image/bdf97b19955700)

[Hodge]

That thing looks like something made on OCC. Ridiculous looking IMHO. Where's the windscreen? If that thing goes as fast as it should a bug would kill you at top speed.

[}{arlequin]

plenty of naked bikes don't have any windscreens: cafe racers, duc monsters etc.

[Gary_Busey]

I don't like it.

[Claydon]

im fapping

[Gary_Busey]

How difficult would it be to replace spark plug wires?

[Hoser]

Depends on the car.

Edit: I read plugs, plug wires are simple. Just make sure you get the right wire to the right cylinder.

[Gary_Busey]

3.1L V6 in a 1999 Chevy Malibu.

[6655321]

you just have to have a wrench with a special attachment and other than that i think it's pretty plug and play. it was on my car at least.

[Gary_Busey]

Word. I had my spark plugs changed recently and I've noticed I have pretty bad stuttering and hesitation when the engine is cold, it actually stalled on me this morning, but after 5-10 minutes it runs just fine. The spark plug wires look pretty rough and I'm wondering if there's some arcing going on which is causing plugs to misfire. I could be completely wrong though.

[TylerDurden]

Word. I had my spark plugs changed recently and I've noticed I have pretty bad stuttering and hesitation when the engine is cold, it actually stalled on me this morning, but after 5-10 minutes it runs just fine. The spark plug wires look pretty rough and I'm wondering if there's some arcing going on which is causing plugs to misfire. I could be completely wrong though.

definitely replace the plug wires. i forget what the recommended maintenance is on plug wires (i have coil packs, so i replace my equivalent every five years or so), but i have friends that replace them every time they replace their spark plugs.

beyond that check your battery posts for excessive buildup of corrosion.

[Gary_Busey]

Lol, um, yeah, these have probably never been changed and I'm closing in on 120K miles. I suck at car maintenance. The plugs were the originals too. So in case anyone is wondering how long a set of AC Delco plugs could really last, somewhere between 110K and 120K miles, probably longer.

[TylerDurden]

Lol, um, yeah, these have probably never been changed and I'm closing in on 120K miles. I suck at car maintenance. The plugs were the originals too. So in case anyone is wondering how long a set of AC Delco plugs could really last, somewhere between 110K and 120K miles, probably longer.

if your car is still in running condition you can't suck that bad. just make sure you get them pups changed asap.

[Gary_Busey]

Yeah, I'll probably do it this weekend. I need to start paying attention to stuff like this. I'm actually surprised I don't have more problems considering how bad I keep up with maintenance.

[}{arlequin]

plug wire change is easy. You'll feel/hear a click when done right. Trick is to not fuck up the firing order. Magnecor if u wanna splurge, otherwise any pep boys brand will do.

I'd also put a wrench on each plug just be sure none of them are backing out

[Gary_Busey]

I probably need to disconnect the battery too, right? Just the ground or both?

[}{arlequin]

no need. just make sure the car/ignition is off.


for future reference, just disconnecting the ground will be enough when dealing w/ the battery

[TylerDurden]

Trick is to not fuck up the firing order.

truth. do not fuck up the firing order. this'll be easiest to avoid with the shortest and longest wires, but once you start playing around with a pair of neighboring wires the difference in length is REALLY hard to tell. some tips...

- line 'em up first, side by side. longest to shortest.
- eye-balling the lengths is easy so long as you pull the wire taut when comparing them.
- remove and replace one at a time.

I'd also put a wrench on each plug just be sure none of them are backing out

good advice. don't over-tighten on these boys either. you're just wanting to make sure they're not loose or coming out. if you over-tighten you run the risk of breaking them off the next time you replace them. then you're fucked and have to have those ports drilled and tapped to remove the pieces of old plugs.

[}{arlequin]

what tyler said.

it might also help if you put tags on the wires, just in case, but if you remove/replace one at a time you should be ok anyway

[Gary_Busey]

Yeah, I definitely didn't know that. Thanks.

[merlin13]

I have seen some better quality wire sets are available that actually are numbered. Ditto with all that have posted before me. However make sure the wires are in the harnesses also. Sometimes if they aren't they get vulcanized ( cooked to the point they are no longer pliable) form the heat off of the exhaust manifold.

[Gary_Busey]

I was just going to go to a local auto parts store and pick some up. Any brand suggestions?

[}{arlequin]

bosch, ngk, champion, accel, msd, moroso, ac delco, magnecor, jacobs

they're all fine. for a basic daily driver it won't matter what you go with, as long as it's one of the major brands

some of the more pricey ones may have a better fit/finish but not necessarily

[Gary_Busey]

Ok. I guess I'll just stick with AC Delco.

[Hoser]

NGK has always been my brand of choice. Try to get a wire that is 8-8.5mm

[Gary_Busey]

I think this is going to be a bigger hassle than I imagined. The front 3 wires should be easy, but the back three are down behind the engine, which I gotta figure out how to get to them.

[}{arlequin]

didn't know your engine was mounted transversely... those are a bit of a hassle. if you can't do it from above, then you prolly have to go under. those roll-up ramps would be very helpful in this.

also, why not google your car/model along w/ 'spark plug/wire change' and see if any hints pop up?

[6655321]

}{, do you know of a site that would tell me if a certain set of rims would fit on my car? i wanna swap mine from my car to my girl's car, but i'm thinking it's gonna be a tight fit.

[Gary_Busey]

I did. There isn't much.

[TylerDurden]

those roll-up ramps would be very helpful in this.

and definitely chock those rear tires and apply the e-brake before climbing beneath a 3000+ pound vehicle. it takes all of three seconds for your head to be shaped like a pancake. the roll-ups should be sufficient for what you're doing... anything more intensive and i'd suggest jack stands as well. chocks should be $10 at autozone.

[Gary_Busey]

I'm thinking of just trying to roll it up onto the curb...

[Hoser]

}{, do you know of a site that would tell me if a certain set of rims would fit on my car? i wanna swap mine from my car to my girl's car, but i'm thinking it's gonna be a tight fit.

What you need to know is your bolt pattern, offset and diameter. To keep your speedo accurate you will need to make sure the diameters match.

First thing is to find if it will even match up, so you need to know the bolt pattern. You also need to know about stud size, if your studs are much larger then his it wont work.
This site will help you out with that.
http://www.discountedwheelwarehouse.com/Vehicle_Bolt_Pattern_Reference.cfm

Then you will need to know the offset, if that is off you can add spacers to make it match, unless you car has a greater offset then your friends, that will cause the wheels to stick out a bit.

I couldnt find a good site for all vehicles, but just do a Google search for this one.


Lastely, you will need a site like this to figure out which tires to run. http://www.1010tires.com/tiresizecalculator.asp

[Archangel]

New E-Class.

http://www.codenuit.com/image/Mercedes+new+E-Class+2009_133.jpg


Discuss.

[IdiotBrain]

I know I'm a Texan at heart because this makes me horny:

http://www.seriouswheels.com/pics-2004/2004-Hummer-H1-Deep-In-Mud-1280x960.jpg

[Archangel]

Pfft.

Only off roader that matters.

http://www.autotouring.at/archiv/export/November_2001/img/mercedes_g_vorne_4.jpg

Armed forces pedigree? You bet.

http://www.panzerbaer.de/helper/pix/bw_agf_ksk-011.jpg

[Archangel]

Fully automatic 40mm grenade launcher? Why not.

http://www.seventy6er.de/bilder/mil/KSK/76er_KSK_11.jpg

[Archangel]

There is something fundamentally right about shooting turbaned arseholes from a Mercedes-Benz.

[IdiotBrain]

.50's.... TOW's.... and 40mm's....


http://reviews.cnet.com/i/bto/20071121/humvee.jpg
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/eb/Humvee_equipped_with_four_snow_treads.jpg/800px-Humvee_equipped_with_four_snow_treads.jpg
http://www.akinoluna.com/BlogPhotos/humvee.jpg
http://www.army.mil/-images/2007/05/21/5155/army.mil-2007-05-21-134956.jpg

[Archangel]

GMG > M19.


Oh, and your Marines seem to like the G-Wagen (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interim_Fast_Attack_Vehicle), too...

[}{arlequin]

}{, do you know of a site that would tell me if a certain set of rims would fit on my car? i wanna swap mine from my car to my girl's car, but i'm thinking it's gonna be a tight fit.
there isn't one site per se, but it can be found

first would be the bolt pattern. either google or the manual in the glovebox should have the specs for both cars (if they're 'the same', ie: civic and accord), they usually have matching lug bolt patterns/sizes.

2nd, i'd look at the wheel in question and find out what size it is. width and diameter as well as offset. offset is usually stamped on the inside of a wheel. i know, don't help much when it's all dirty. is it an aftermarket wheel? if so, it has a name. and brand. and that, along w/ offset can be found on the net.

3rd, look at the car that the wheel is going on. find out what wheels are on it now. if stock, then again, the manual, or any magazine can tell you their specs.


there is also tire rack's site which lets you punch in the car model/year, and if you go to the wheels section, it'll throw up what fits your car. might be different wheel brands than what you have, but it will narrow it down in sizes. (it might give you bolt pattern and maybe offset as well but i don't remember anymore)
http://www.tirerack.com/index_w.jsp?s_kwcid=tire%20rack|1584226813

i wouldn't worry too much about the overall rolling diameter too much. if it throws off your speedo by 3%... so what?? your speedo is not accurate from the factory, so it won't really matter that much.

[}{arlequin]

i like the e class. back looks audi'ish in the pic, but it looks like a clean car w/ solid lines. typical merc stuff.

[Lone Wolf]

I had an odd thing happen this morning. I warmed my truck up this morning (Chevy S-10) for about 5 -8 minutes got in and drove out of my driveway and all the sudden all of my dashboard warning lights started flashing, and my regular gauges were all at 0 or like the truck was off, for about 30 seconds. It went away, came back again for about 30 more seconds and I started turning everything off (heat, I have an mp3 player that runs through the lighter) and then just went away.

It's a new alternator, a newer belt, and the battery is good and there is everything that is hooked up is all stock. What would cause a power surge like that? I don't even know how to google such a thing.

[Ethix]

Bad voltage regulator on the alternator?

Did the truck drive normally or did you notice a change in the way it was running when the lights and gauges went wonky?

[TylerDurden]

- battery cables connected firmly and securely to the posts?
- battery posts free of corrosion?
- fuses good?

[The Dude]

http://www.uncrate.com/men/images/2008/12/mclaren-slr-sterling-moss.jpg

[Hoser]

There better be an inline 12 under that hood.

[POO POO CANNON]

Hi, sexcats. I've come into a wee bit of money this break, and I'm looking to spruce up my '97 Yukon. For my first endeavour, I want to make it as loud as possible (in a V8 truck sort of way). What mufflers (mufflers only) would make the biggest impact? My buddy has the Flowmaster 70 series SUV on his Excursion and it's just way too quiet. I'm looking for something more like the Super 44's from Flomaster. Thoughts?. Alternatively, what exhaust kits (whole systems?) would yield the most benifit?

I ask for two catergories (mufflers only and whole kits) because I might want to drop a sound system into that bad boy, how much would a decent setup run me including installation?

[TylerDurden]

http://images.automotive.com/reviews/images/yukon_p.jpg

fuck. what a waste...

[Gary_Busey]

Throw a lift kit on that and that'd be fun to take some friends in out on some backtrails around here. Do a little four wheeling then setup camp for the night somewhere, grill out and get fucked up.

[The Dude]

don't forget one of these if you're goin' muddin':

http://www.warn.com/truck/winches/images/1285/endurance_winch.jpg

[Penguin Rick]

Hi, sexcats. I've come into a wee bit of money this break, and I'm looking to spruce up my '97 Yukon. For my first endeavour, I want to make it as loud as possible (in a V8 truck sort of way). What mufflers (mufflers only) would make the biggest impact? My buddy has the Flowmaster 70 series SUV on his Excursion and it's just way too quiet. I'm looking for something more like the Super 44's from Flomaster. Thoughts?. Alternatively, what exhaust kits (whole systems?) would yield the most benifit?

I ask for two catergories (mufflers only and whole kits) because I might want to drop a sound system into that bad boy, how much would a decent setup run me including installation?

$600 will get you a couple decent 8" or 10" subs and satellites, and should also cover installation.

Only thing Poo Poo, that car is close to being 12 years old and GMC's aren't all that reliable. So proceed with caution when dumping cash into it.

[Gary_Busey]

GMC trucks are definitely reliable.

[CTricksterGirl]

Ok between a Mini Cooper and a Nissan Altima two door, which is better?

[POO POO CANNON]

Uh...

In terms of what?

[CTricksterGirl]

Better all around vehicle

[POO POO CANNON]

Better all around vehicle

The Mini may be more fun to drive, but the Altima will be more practical. Neither has major reliability issues or anything of the sort. If you like taking corners at obscene speeds though, you should get a Mini.

[POO POO CANNON]

Yeah man, I met more a few guys with over 500 grand on thier GM Trucks and they're still running strong. Mine has 225,000 km's and has had no major problems, the only real problems being a dead fuel pump and a torn up transfer case (which was partly my fault). Also, my dad decided to replace a lot of parts on it a couple years ago for no reason.

I was actually thinking of getting it lifted (since lowering these seems to be a big hassle). I just don't want to go through all the regearing and since it sleeps outside at univerity I don't want someone to fuck with it.

As for the stereos, I see Best Buy can intall them for me. What do you guys think of getting the stuff and installing it there? I'm not too worried about the actual merchandise, but what about them fuckin' around in my truck?

http://images.automotive.com/reviews/images/yukon_p.jpg

fuck. what a waste...

uncanny.

[Hodge]

If you're doing a whole setup go to a private shop and use your brown skillz to haggle them. It will be easier to get a package that way anyways and if you're buying more than one item they are more negotiable on the prices.

For instance, my buddy is putting a new deck in his truck (touch screen, double-din). At first they offered nearly $200 off (899 regular), then he threw some speakers (component set, approx $300 regular) and they offered him the whole set for around $850. At a local shop I should say.

Places like Best Buy do tons of installs and don't take their time to do a nice job. Their prices on individual items can be ok but imho most of the stereo equipment they sell is shit. They will do little to no negotiation on bunch of items.

If you want something quick and somewhat cheap go to Best Buy. If you have an ear for sound and want something that turns you on everytime you get in your truck go to a private shop.

[Gary_Busey]

So here's what my car does when the engine is cold in the morning and I'm letting it warm up. The RPMs drop randomly and when they drop, the lights also dim for a second. After about 5-10 minutes, it stops and the car runs fine. Any ideas?

Happens at the very end of the video (http://tinypic.com/player.php?v=28c33f9&s=5)

[RedBEARD]

Sounds electrical...As in your battery could be compensating for your alternator not supplying enough voltage initially. Does your radio or anything else drop out?

[Gary_Busey]

Nope, everything else seems fine, just the headlights dim when the RPMs drop.

[RedBEARD]

Could be something off with your idle sensor or timing, then. Did it only start recently? Whatever the case, I'd have it checked before you get stranded somewhere.

[mongo]

dimming and shit dying down screams alternator.

[Gary_Busey]

I'll take it to get tested. Don't most of the auto-part chains test batteries and alternators for free?

[RedBEARD]

I'll take it to get tested. Don't most of the auto-part chains test batteries and alternators for free?Yeah, but be careful of that shit - sometimes you get some bozo who doesn't know an alternator from his nutsack.

[Gary_Busey]

Yeah, I think I'll take it to a couple places.

[Dakcuda]

Ill take my 65 Barracuda over any of these new cars. It has A hmm Personalaty..

[mongo]

wut?

[POO POO CANNON]

http://synthesismagazine.net/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/lolwut.jpg

[Hoser]

http://jalopnik.com/5117022/ten-cars-and-the-type-of-women-they-attract?skyline=true&s=i

Which do you get??

[cAsE sEnSiTiVe]

http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f241/SoundQcar/MyImpalaSS268-1.jpg

http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f241/SoundQcar/MyImpalaSS022-1.jpg

http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f241/SoundQcar/MyImpalaSS016-1.jpg

http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f241/SoundQcar/Impala005.jpg

http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f241/SoundQcar/engine2011.jpg

[}{arlequin]

so you're saying your stereo is worth more than two of those cars?


sweet

[}{arlequin]

dimming and shit dying down screams alternator.
agree.


i'd also check the air filter and see if it's dirty or clogged

[}{arlequin]

cgt split in two:

http://www.tremek.com/forum/porsche-videos/38646-carrera-gt-split-two.html#post424221

[Gary_Busey]

I found these beauts on my way to work the other day.

http://i39.tinypic.com/whh1y8.jpg

[Rumpleforeskin]

Man, I got pwnd yesterday by a....PT Cruiser. I feel ridiculously ashamed of my vehicle.:(

[Alcestis]

Though }{ would enjoy this story....



http://cnews.canoe.ca/CNEWS/World/2009/01/02/w010225A.jpg

LONDON - It was the equivalent of finding an old Picasso or an unknown Beatles tape hidden away in your uncle's attic.

Relatives of Dr. Harold Carr found an extremely rare 1937 Bugatti Type 57S Atalante — a Holy Grail for car collectors — as they were going through his belongings after his death.

The dusty two-seater, unused since 1960, didn't look like much in the garage in Gosforth, near Newcastle in northern England.

But only 17 were ever made, and when it's cleaned up and auctioned in Paris next month, experts believe it will fetch at least 3 million pounds ($4.3 million) and possibly much more.

Bugatti once represented the height of motoring achievement. The supercar was so ahead of its time it could go up to 130 mph when most other cars topped out about 50 mph.

This particular car is even more valuable because it was originally owned by Earl Howe, a prominent British racecar driver, and because its original equipment is intact, so it can restored without relying on replacement parts. It has just 26,000 miles on the clock.

"It has all the finest attributes any connoisseur collector could ever seek, in one of the ultimate road-going sports cars from the golden era of the 1930s," said James Knight, head of the international motoring department at Bonhams, which will auction the car Feb. 7.

Knight and a small number of Bugatti enthusiasts knew of Carr's proudest possession, but not the eight relatives who inherited Carr's estate.

The orthopedic surgeon, who died at age 89, was described by relatives as an eccentric hoarder who never threw anything out. He also left behind an Aston Martin, which was sold, and a Jaguar sports car that was scrapped because it was in such poor condition.

The Bugatti marque is famed for its speed and handling and was a frequent race winner in the 1920s and 1930s. The 57S Atalante was one of its most successful models, each one made by hand with unique details.

The company founded in 1909 by Ettore Bugatti collapsed in the 1940s after a long string of racing victories.

The rights to the legendary Bugatti name were purchased in 1998 by Volkswagen, which has built the Bugatti Veyron, one of the world's fastest and most expensive cars.

www.msnbc.msn.com (http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/28471907/)

[TylerDurden]

even by today's standards that car is fucking sexy.

[}{arlequin]

thank you alcestis!

[Ghostrider]

A leaking intake gasket or perhaps a vacuum leak will cause surging, the reason it would go away is if the gasket expands when the engine warms up. Low RPM could contribute to low voltage output in the charging system.

[Gary_Busey]

A leaking intake gasket or perhaps a vacuum leak will cause surging, the reason it would go away is if the gasket expands when the engine warms up. Low RPM could contribute to low voltage output in the charging system.
Eewww, that doesn't sound cheap. I'm gonna go get my battery and alternator checked and if they're fine, I guess I'll have to take it somewhere and ask them about what you suggested.

[}{arlequin]

'little bastard' (w/ crash pics)

http://jalopnik.com/5113390/the-curse-of-james-deans-little-bastard

[}{arlequin]

911 racecar
http://crazyredhead.com/94rsrp1.htm

[Hoser]

These guys are impressing the hell out of me. I hope their perceived image starts to change, they deserve it.

http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/sedans/112_0801_2009_hyundai_genesis_sedan/index.html

http://www.dieselupload.com/files/508_jnqa3/DSC_0040.jpg
http://www.dieselupload.com/files/509_gad3k/DSC_0044.jpg
http://www.dieselupload.com/files/510_zmpxl/DSC_0045.jpg
http://www.dieselupload.com/files/511_3qmhr/IMG_0282.jpg
http://www.dieselupload.com/files/512_xm2qf/IMG_0287.jpg

[POO POO CANNON]

It looks like a 5 series and an S class had a baby, with the midsection of a G37 thrown in there.

[Hoser]

Kind of like a Jessica Biel, Marissa Miller and Scarlett Johansson mix. Doesn't seem like a bad idea to me.

[POO POO CANNON]

Yeah, except it loses its individuality, nothing on that car looks original.

[}{arlequin]

It looks like a 5 series and an S class had a baby, with the midsection of a G37 thrown in there.

Kind of like a Jessica Biel, Marissa Miller and Scarlett Johansson mix. Doesn't seem like a bad idea to me.
yes, i'll give them that, but it will only work if the actual engineering compares and competes w/ the best in the class. lexus, and the germans. and... whether it can maintain that level of fit'n'finish.

[POO POO CANNON]

I'm surprised it only sold 6,100 units in North America last year though, seems like starting off shitty and working you way up isn't the way to go. A shame, really.

[}{arlequin]

what's there to cry about?
it's a korean car.*




*sorry arch

[TylerDurden]

It looks like a 5 series and an S class had a baby, with the midsection of a G37 thrown in there.

a fantastic analogy. car looks great, imho. all three of the cars you mentioned are iconic and good-selling vehicles. just because it's not all-original doesn't mean it's a horrible strategy. fuck, other companies have tried the same formula with horrifyingly absurd and awful results. this isn't one of those.

[POO POO CANNON]

And now that I look closer, the logo looks like they tiefed it from Aston-Martin

[TylerDurden]

And now that I look closer, the logo looks like they tiefed it from Aston-Martin

if i didn't know any better, i'd swear it was a bentley logo.

[}{arlequin]

if i didn't know any better, i'd swear it was a bentley logo.
that's what i thought at first too. it *looks* good. like i said, the rest needs to follow though.

[Da Raider]

my boss just got rid of his BMW 6 series and got an x-6. Fucking gay.

[TylerDurden]

my boss just got rid of his BMW 6 series and got an x-6. Fucking gay.

same chassis, different body. what's the problem? of the bmw crossovers, the x6, imho, is the best-looking one and the one i'm most-likely to pick up.

[The Dude]

if i didn't know any better, i'd swear it was a bentley logo.

holy shit...i had only looked quickly earlier and definitely thought those were bentleys...whoops

[IdiotBrain]

I've got the chance to buy a 2005 Golf GTI 20th anniversary... It's a step up from my 92 ranger....

Any thoughts on the car?

[only thing i dont like about it is the color.]

46k miles, 6spd tranny
He's asking 12.5k but I think I can talk him down a bit.
http://i8.ebayimg.com/05/i/001/29/48/0e72_1.JPG
http://i16.ebayimg.com/07/i/001/29/48/0f53_1.JPG

[Ethix]

It's yellow. That's an automatic no (unless it's a Lambo or Ferrari).

[IdiotBrain]

Yes, I agree... but the car can be repainted, and the price is right.

Besides, before I get it repainted it reminds me a bit of the Hitchhikers Guide.



Arther Dent: "Yellow....?"

[Claydon]

is it diesel or gasoline?

[Archangel]

It's a fucking GTI, you dolt. A term coined to mean Gran Turismo (fuel) Injection two decades before the advent of direct-injection diesels.

Next, he'll ask whether a Caterham comes as an automatic.

[IdiotBrain]

lol. Yes, it's a 1.8l gas turbo.

Arch, this car is german... you're.... germasian or some shit... what do you know about these? worth the money? what kind of reliability can I expect?

From what I gather they're very fun to drive, and feel more like a high end sports car than a reasonably priced hatchback when you're behind the wheel. I think if I buy it, it would be one of those cars I kept forever, simply because there are so many possibilities concerning upgrades and well... racing it.

[Archangel]

I've never driven the Mk IV GTI, but my mate used to have the Mk III... It's rumoured to be rather heavy, and if not under-powered, then not exactly sprightly, either: It was more about power than about handling, which is rarely a good thing in a hot hatch. Reliability wise, Golfs are usually bullet-proof, which is why residuals tend to be pretty high.

I dunno, how does the hot hatch market look in the US? What's there besides the GTI and the Civic Type-R? Personally, I'd pick a 2004 Type-R (then again, they don't have all that ricer baggage here as they do in the US) or a Mk I Focus ST 170 for the money, or wait a bit for Mk V GTIs to become more affordable, which they shortly will, what with the Mk VI just having been introduced.

Right now, everybody's quite atwitter about the new Scirocco: For some unfathomable reason, it costs less than a similarly equipped GTI sister model and... well, just bloody look at it:

http://www.zcars.com.au/images/volkswagen-scirocco1.jpg

0-60 in 7 seconds, 145 mph top speed, 30+ mpg.

[IdiotBrain]

In April 2007, VW America's vice president, Adrian Hallmark, stated that his company did not want to bring the Scirocco to North America since it would likely have a negative effect on GTI sales


Not many Golfs in my area... I can count the number I've seen in the last year on two hands.

Civics however.... Well what can I say, Mexicans seem to love their rice. I see one every time I turn my head.


I personally like the design of the mkIV over the mkV, dunno why... just preference.

[Archangel]

No Scirocco?

*points*

Ha-ha.

[IdiotBrain]

Thanks for the help?

[Hoser]

yes, i'll give them that, but it will only work if the actual engineering compares and competes w/ the best in the class. lexus, and the germans. and... whether it can maintain that level of fit'n'finish.

It just won North American Car of the Year, so it can't be all bad.

[Archangel]

Hyundai finally are starting to get their shit together. People have short memories: For the first 30-70 years after the war, Japanese cars (with the possible exception of Honda) were soulless copies of European or American vehicles. Hell, even when branching off into international premium territory -a move which itself took 40 years - Lexus shamelessly copied Merc and BMW for the first dozen years of their existence; only in the last decade or so (and through hiring European designers) have they started to find something akin to their own identities. Infinitis look like Infinitis, and Lexuses look like Lexuses, not like pseudo BMWs.

40 years ago, Korea was an agrarian third world country with a GDP of the kind you'd usually find in Africa. So their cars have been mostly shit thus far; big deal. The fact that they even are producing cars, let alone trying to compete in the premium segment, is nothing short of a miracle - does anyone here see Nigeria developing and producing €40,000 luxury sedans within the year 2040? Thought so.

So yeah, people may still be laughing at their efforts today, but the smart ones remember that their fathers were laughing at the Japanese in the exact same manner 30 years ago.

[Claydon]

sorry arch for not knowing the HISTORY of Hitlers car company....


jesus christ arch, can you kindly remove your dirty tampon already and be civil.

[Claydon]

It just won North American Car of the Year, so it can't be all bad.

yah I was reading that, and I am considering paying a visit to a showroom to see what the hype is about.

Shockingly enough the 09 buick lacrosse is ACTUALLY kind of well....nice. it is not a big piece of shit like I expected and it is getting very good reviews for the quality, and features.

[Claydon]

oh and an fyi to the bmw fans of this thread. my bmw fund is approaching 5 figures!

i cannot wait to slap down cash for whatever it is I choose!

[ruffdog]

so..i need help choosing

2000 Honda Prelude (w/ after market parts/mods) vs 2000 Audi A4 (minor mods)?

[TylerDurden]

oh and an fyi to the bmw fans of this thread. my bmw fund is approaching 5 figures!

i cannot wait to slap down cash for whatever it is I choose!

people say that 3-series are entry-level, but honestly 5-series are simply 3-series with larger cabins for passengers you don't really want.

[Claydon]

people say that 3-series are entry-level, but honestly 5-series are simply 3-series with larger cabins for passengers you don't really want.

what about the 1 series

[satandole666]

oh and an fyi to the bmw fans of this thread. my bmw fund is approaching 5 figures!

i cannot wait to slap down cash for whatever it is I choose!

I've always wanted a 2000-2002 BMW M5. I think they are pretty "cheap" nowadays but they are still badass cars. Quick eBay search shows them going from $15k to $35k+ depending on miles and aftermarket work.

[TylerDurden]

what about the 1 series

great cars... but if you're going to do that, do it right and get it direct from the factory. bmw will wine and dine you with all kinds of nifty shit before letting you drive your car off the assembly line.

[satandole666]

so..i need help choosing

2000 Honda Prelude (w/ after market parts/mods) vs 2000 Audi A4 (minor mods)?

I'd assume the A4 has the 1.8T? Not a bad car at all...and I'm not a fan of the Asian interiors.

The 2000-2002 S4s are one of my favorite cars. I think they can be had now for $12-15k if you want something that has some kick stock with a lot of potential modified.

[TylerDurden]

I've always wanted a 2000-2002 BMW M5. I think they are pretty "cheap" nowadays but they are still badass cars. Quick eBay search shows them going from $15k to $35k+ depending on miles and aftermarket work.

do not buy a performance-modded car. that's just fucking stupid. you may as well pay someone else to fuck and knock-up your wife.

[}{arlequin]

Not many Golfs in my area... I can count the number I've seen in the last year on two hands.

Civics however.... Well what can I say, Mexicans seem to love their rice. I see one every time I turn my head.


I personally like the design of the mkIV over the mkV, dunno why... just preference.
don't expect it to be the firecracker people say it is, but i do think it's more fun to drive than the r32.

if you don't mind the color, then i'd haggle the price down. for the kind of money mentioned, you could get a used s2000 which is leagues ahead of anything from vw. then again, you don't get the practicality you do w/ the golf.

50k on the clock is nothing for a vw, so reliability wise (unless he beat the crap out of it) you should be fine, except for a possible clutch replacement.

i have found the german cars have better a/c than the honda counterparts as well, which might make a difference in texas.

since you mentioned 'sports car', i'm not sure the golf will surpass your expectations. have you driven it yet?


if it was my money, and unless i needed to carry people + cargo, i'd get the s2000.

[}{arlequin]

do not buy a performance-modded car. that's just fucking stupid. you may as well pay someone else to fuck and knock-up your wife.
i generally agree w/ this, though i'd make an exception for documented, dealer installed dinan parts.

[Claydon]

great cars... but if you're going to do that, do it right and get it direct from the factory. bmw will wine and dine you with all kinds of nifty shit before letting you drive your car off the assembly line.

eh?! like i could afford that, if i am saving pennies i doubt bmw will want to deal with me directly, in germany.

[}{arlequin]

oh and an fyi to the bmw fans of this thread. my bmw fund is approaching 5 figures!

i cannot wait to slap down cash for whatever it is I choose!

i thought you already decided on your z4...

[}{arlequin]

eh?! like i could afford that, if i am saving pennies i doubt bmw will want to deal with me directly, in germany.
the savings in the car price when you pick it up from the factory *just happens* to precisely cover your holiday in germany, including airfare.
(last time i checked at least)

[satandole666]

do not buy a performance-modded car. that's just fucking stupid. you may as well pay someone else to fuck and knock-up your wife.

Agreed...just explaining the large variation in price.

[}{arlequin]

so..i need help choosing

2000 Honda Prelude (w/ after market parts/mods) vs 2000 Audi A4 (minor mods)?
i'd go w/ the a4*. fun little cars, and you don't get the rice label either.



*depending on the mods.

[satandole666]

i generally agree w/ this, though i'd make an exception for documented, dealer installed dinan parts.

They might be properly installed, quality parts...but that does not change the fact that the idiot driver probably beat the shit out of it for 20k miles and wants to dump it now.

[satandole666]

i'd go w/ the a4*. fun little cars, and you don't get the rice label either.



*depending on the mods.

It also depends if you want to modify it further. I haven't looked into either car specifically, but the aftermarket parts for the S4s are RIDICULOUSLY expensive compared to the American cars I've worked on. I'd assume the Honda is more expensive than American, but no where near the price of the Audi to modify and/or fix if something goes wrong.

[}{arlequin]

It also depends if you want to modify it further. I haven't looked into either car specifically, but the aftermarket parts for the S4s are RIDICULOUSLY expensive compared to the American cars I've worked on. I'd assume the Honda is more expensive than American, but no where near the price of the Audi to modify and/or fix if something goes wrong.
the premise being, you don't buy a 1.8 to crack 200mph... either way, changing to the chip/intake/throttle body from the tt gives reliable and dependable upgrade in power.

as for being expensive in comparison... of course. german car will always differ from american in that manner

[}{arlequin]

They might be properly installed, quality parts...but that does not change the fact that the idiot driver probably beat the shit out of it for 20k miles and wants to dump it now.
it's an M. it was hand built (engine) precisely *because* it's meant to be driven hard. i'd be more concerned w/ an M that's never been above 5k rpm.

engines are not cheap** to fix/rebuild, but if the timing chain maintenance was taken care of, i don't see it as a problem. keep in mind, when the car was new at $80k, it sorta prevented the complete retards from beating up on them. a used M5 is quite different from a used lancer evo, which every 20yr old has over revv'd on a daily basis.


**incidentally, a brand new factory crate stock 996 engine goes for 10k. that is ridiculously cheap, esp if you look into how much a rebuild (of any engine) can cost.

[TylerDurden]

i generally agree w/ this, though i'd make an exception for documented, dealer installed dinan parts.

typically, i'd say to hell with dinan, but if you've got the money to pay for a name they're good shit. just know that there are companies that make the same stuff that's just as good for far cheaper. but then bmw won't install those at the factory. alpina is another exception to this rule.

the savings in the car price when you pick it up from the factory *just happens* to precisely cover your holiday in germany, including airfare.
(last time i checked at least)

true story. then there's the matter of owning exactly what you want, down to the color of the stitching on the seats and trim. i own a bmw, and i'm ridiculously happy with my car. and no matter what bmw you buy you'll most likely feel the same. but there are bmw owners, and there are bmw owners. getting it to your specs from the factory puts you squarely into the latter category.

Agreed...just explaining the large variation in price.

indeed, sir. some of the shit is ridiculous though. who the fuck wants to drive a 1024hp ///m3 to work every day? it could be done, but it's not streetable in the proper sense of the word. the force effort needed to depress a clutch strong enough to contain that much power is fucking stupid and not for those with a weak bladder.

and then there's the matter of the fucking tards driving it like they fucking stole it just because they put a new catback on it. *sigh*

It also depends if you want to modify it further.

i can personally attest, from experience, about the modability of bmw's. my car is nowhere near what it was when i bought it. i think the only thing that remains (after this weekend) from the original is the engine, and i've done all the work myself. now, for model specifics...

for the 3 series, watch out for the turbocharged variants. modifying anything on that motor requires retuning the ecu, which can be done, but the underground skunk works have always had a difficult time doing this. don't just let anyone touch this. grab up a known name like dinan or turner motorsports (if they have one).

for the 1 series, i'm told (no experience, and aside from the aforementioned turbocharged variants) that these are ridiculously tuner friendly. they're a new breed, though, so i'm not entirely certain the aftermarket is as large as it should be if you're wanting to get in on a relatively cheap modding adventure.

[satandole666]

I can't argue against that...BMW builds amazing cars, but I'd still feel better buying a non-modified M5 and paying for the work myself than buying one already modified and no knowing what been done to it.

Its the same reason I didn't buy a 2002 S4 that had 450whp for $18k 2 years ago. I couldn't have come close to that power buying one unmodified and paying for it myself with $18k. Buying a used car is a gamble...buying one that you can reasonably assume has been pushed to the edge routinely is an even bigger gamble.

I wouldn't want to do any major mods to the 2000-2002 M5s anyway. The car is near perfect IMO stock.

EDIT: This was in response to Harlequin

[TylerDurden]

I can't argue against that...BMW builds amazing cars, but I'd still feel better buying a non-modified M5 and paying for the work myself than buying one already modified and no knowing what been done to it.

Its the same reason I didn't buy a 2002 S4 that had 450whp for $18k 2 years ago. I couldn't have come close to that power buying one unmodified and paying for it myself with $18k. Buying a used car is a gamble...buying one that you can reasonably assume has been pushed to the edge routinely is an even bigger gamble.

I wouldn't want to do any major mods to the 2000-2002 M5s anyway. The car is near perfect IMO stock.

EDIT: This was in response to Harlequin

i should have prefaced the last part of my response (with regards to "relatively cheaply" modifying a bmw) with "there's nothing cheap about modifying any car, let alone a bmw". i've spent, in a single year, more than $10k in modifications, most of it suspension and drivetrain work. that's just the parts. i do all my own labor. keep it in mind. a single replacement bolt from bmw can be upwards of $20 (yes, twenty fucking dollars). obviously you substitute where you can, but it's not often.

and yes, the m5 is exquisite in stock form.

[satandole666]

I've been thinking about picking up a project car for a while now. Money is definitely a factor though.

I've heard some of the early 90s 3 series are fairly easy to work on but the parts are getting rarer by the day.

Another project I'd like to have would be putting a modern drivetrain in a late 60s Mustang. Not sure on the details though.

[}{arlequin]

I've been thinking about picking up a project car for a while now. Money is definitely a factor though.

I've heard some of the early 90s 3 series are fairly easy to work on but the parts are getting rarer by the day.

Another project I'd like to have would be putting a modern drivetrain in a late 60s Mustang. Not sure on the details though.
e36 m3 is what you want then

as for the 'stang, it would need sooo much chassis/metalwork to be viable that it's not even funny.

[TylerDurden]

e36 m3 is what you want then

fantastic cars. parts are at the cheapest that they're going to be.

as for the 'stang, it would need sooo much chassis/metalwork to be viable that it's not even funny.

fuck mustangs.

[IdiotBrain]

Ponies are for little girls.

[Archangel]

sorry arch for not knowing the HISTORY of Hitlers car company....


jesus christ arch, can you kindly remove your dirty tampon already and be civil.

You asked an idiotic question, and got what people on GMF get when caught being stupid. Now don't try to dress it up in paper-thin fake machismo or play it down. What the fuck does Hitler have to do with anything? If you ask in the NFL thread whether Donovan McNabb plays for the Eagles or the Giants, do you think you'll get treated "civilly"?

Seriously, stop acting like tater's pussy-hurt fucking cousin.

[Ethix]

So, going back to the question of what car to buy....buy a Subaru WRX. They can be had for 10-12k, are reliable if you take care of it, and are more fun to drive than A4's and newer GTi's. The 02-03's (I have an 03...) are not exactly attractive cars, but if you can find an 04 in your price range they're much better looking.

You could also find a used 350z in that price range if you looked hard enough and they're decent performers. That's probably going to be my next car.

[Archangel]

The Scooby's murder on tyres, though.

[Ethix]

If you keep it aligned it's not. I can't really say what kind of mileage I've gotten on tires though because I've had like 3 flats in the last 2 years. Oh, and the stock tires are rubbish. $75 Hankook POS tires are better.

[Hoser]

The Scooby's murder on tranny's, though.

fixed

[satandole666]

So, going back to the question of what car to buy....buy a Subaru WRX. They can be had for 10-12k, are reliable if you take care of it, and are more fun to drive than A4's and newer GTi's. The 02-03's (I have an 03...) are not exactly attractive cars, but if you can find an 04 in your price range they're much better looking.

You could also find a used 350z in that price range if you looked hard enough and they're decent performers. That's probably going to be my next car.

No thanks.

One of my friends bought a 2003 a few years back. It was easily the most uncomfortable car I've ever been in. Not only was it uncomfortable, it had an ungodly amount of plastic in the interior. I'm not a huge car buff, but if I'm spending 10k+ on a car it damn well better have a nice interior.

More fun than an A4? Maybe...or you can grab an S4 for 1-3k more than the WRX and have better performance, an above average interior, and no ricer stigma.

[Ethix]

No thanks.

One of my friends bought a 2003 a few years back. It was easily the most uncomfortable car I've ever been in. Not only was it uncomfortable, it had an ungodly amount of plastic in the interior. I'm not a huge car buff, but if I'm spending 10k+ on a car it damn well better have a nice interior.

More fun than an A4? Maybe...or you can grab an S4 for 1-3k more than the WRX and have better performance, an above average interior, and no ricer stigma.

Uncomfortable? Compared to what? It's not a Benz, but it's comfortable enough for a sporty sedan. It does have a lot of plastic inside, but that's how most Japanese cars seem to be. :shrugs:

Ricer stigma? lol ok.

The S4 is a nice car and definitely a good choice, but they're a lot more expensive to fix if/when anything goes wrong.

If you want to stay away from the Japanese cars, I'd say get a BMW M3 or the S4 like you mentioned. The E36 M3 is one of the most fun cars I've ever driven. My friend bought a 99 with 150k miles and it still drives like it's brand new. Great cars.

[Hoser]

. I'm not a huge car buff, but if I'm spending 10k+ on a car it damn well better have a nice interior.


10K is nothing for a car. You are still looking at bottom barrel cars at that point. 20K is where you start to get nicer with cars like the Mazda 3, which are good looking.

[Claydon]

i thought you already decided on your z4...

well, the 1 series is really starting to tempt me, and i am trying to win over the wife on this matter. the 1 series can be a car, whereas she views the roadster as a peen extension.

i am still at minimum a year away from any type of serious shopping.

[IdiotBrain]

hoser, we're talking used not new.

in doles case, a damn good project/tuner car can be had for 10k.

if you're not looking for something to be a daily driver, why don't you try to find an old supra? maybe a 3000gt?

[}{arlequin]

well, the 1 series is really starting to tempt me, and i am trying to win over the wife on this matter. the 1 series can be a car, whereas she views the roadster as a peen extension.

i am still at minimum a year away from any type of serious shopping.
she wanted hawai'i, she got it. she wanted a diamond, she got that. she wanted a wedding, she got that too.

are you *really* gonna go for yet another thing that she wants??? you already have your one practical car. stop being so fucking pragmatic and get something fun for yourself

i wouldn't go for the roadster but i'd certainly go for a z4 over the 1 series

[TylerDurden]

she wanted hawai'i, she got it. she wanted a diamond, she got that. she wanted a wedding, she got that too.

are you *really* gonna go for yet another thing that she wants??? you already have your one practical car. stop being so fucking pragmatic and get something fun for yourself

i wouldn't go for the roadster but i'd certainly go for a z4 over the 1 series

i'm not gonna lie: i'd take a 335 over a 135. bmw is still futzing around over the pricing structure, so at the moment the difference between the 1 and 3 series is negligible.

if you're going to get a z, you'd better get a fucking ///m. the z4m is a wicked bitch, but oh-so-much-fun. i got to flog the fuck out of one at a local autocross, and those things LOVE to be pushed hard. the mid-to-top end is where the s54 inline 6 really shines. for the uninitiated the s54 is the amazing successor to the inline 6 of the e36 m3. it was originally included in the very late z3m's and e46 (2001 - 2006) m3's. it's six pounds lighter than its predecessor and contains almost 100 additional horsepower. getting a z4m is an investment. it'll hold its value far longer than any 1 series you're likely to purchase.

you've saved this money for how long? don't fuck around. get something you want. this isn't something you should compromise on, and if your wife is your wife she should understand and support you. the fuck would you marry someone who isn't supportive? and if compromise is necessary, don't compromise on the car, compromise that the next vehicle the family gets she gets to pick (within reason, of course).

[Claydon]

she wanted hawai'i, she got it. she wanted a diamond, she got that. she wanted a wedding, she got that too.

are you *really* gonna go for yet another thing that she wants??? you already have your one practical car. stop being so fucking pragmatic and get something fun for yourself

i wouldn't go for the roadster but i'd certainly go for a z4 over the 1 series

i would concur with you, however.........i have to live with her :eek:

but anyways, whatever i end up getting in time I am sure I will post a pic of me humping the hell out of it.

[Claydon]

you've saved this money for how long? don't fuck around. get something you want. this isn't something you should compromise on, and if your wife is your wife she should understand and support you. the fuck would you marry someone who isn't supportive? and if compromise is necessary, don't compromise on the car, compromise that the next vehicle the family gets she gets to pick (within reason, of course).

i agree with you completely, but she is still a wife, if that makes any sense. She is rather, conservative for lack of a better word. To her a car is merely 4 wheels with an engine thingy that takes one from point a to b. Granted, my cars have basically always been just that, just a car. However, I have always kept them in the best running condition possible (the shop always smiles when i walk in) and I mean for fuck sakes, I was born and raised in los angeles you live and die by the car. I am sure it will work out, although when I got that humidor and cigars that did not go over very well.

[Archangel]

How's life without balls, anyway?

[Claydon]

How's life without balls, anyway?

i bought the humidor didn't I? I still have the fund for the bmw do I not?

Lets just say that she tends to see things in more nebraskan ways, even though she is from hawaii.

[Pax Britannia]

I have always kept them in the best running condition possible (the shop always smiles when i walk in)

Why would they smile? If it's not broke they wont make any money. American mechanics must be much less corrupt than British ones because I guarantee that you could take a mint condition car into a British garage and they would still find something wrong with it costing hundreds of pounds to fix.

[Claydon]

Why would they smile? If it's not broke they wont make any money. American mechanics must be much less corrupt than British ones because I guarantee that you could take a mint condition car into a British garage and they would still find something wrong with it costing hundreds of pounds to fix.

smile as in i always want something worked on, ie when i switched to synthetic oil, or had better struts put in, or when i purchase tires I always get the longest tread life possible. I put a lot of miles on this thing therefore I have it in the shop about every 4 to 6 weeks to have something worked on.

[Hoser]

Why would they smile? If it's not broke they wont make any money. American mechanics must be much less corrupt than British ones because I guarantee that you could take a mint condition car into a British garage and they would still find something wrong with it costing hundreds of pounds to fix.

They can be just as bad in the US, claydon is just a moron who talks out of his ass when it comes to cars. He has a very skewed self perception in all aspects of life.

[Claydon]

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c145/idexx/topgear3knp_468x392-1.jpg

Pax's mechanic?!

[Pax Britannia]

Jeremy is too brutally honest to be a mechanic.

[Claydon]

They can be just as bad in the US, claydon is just a moron who talks out of his ass when it comes to cars. He has a very skewed self perception in all aspects of life.

im talking out of my ass with cars? so by asking questions in here about things such as synthetic vs. mineral or peoples opinions about various bmw models I am talking out of my ass?

[Claydon]

Jeremy is too brutally honest to be a mechanic.

god, he said something about a US built ford pickup that about made me piss my pants...


"The worse car I ever drove was a soviet built, soviet style jeep in vietnam a few years back. The key word here being.....was"

[Trident]

I think that was the F150.

[Hoser]

im talking out of my ass with cars? so by asking questions in here about things such as synthetic vs. mineral or peoples opinions about various bmw models I am talking out of my ass?

No asking questions is fine, it is just your general shit spewing that does it.

anyways CARS YAHOO!!

[Claydon]

I think that was the F150.

yah a red one.....it was rather pathetic how AWFUL the interior and console were.

[Hoser]

You could fit Face between the gaps in the interior.

[Claydon]

You could fit Face between the gaps in the interior.

lulz

[Claydon]

so i had mentioned on another post about the buick lacrosse 2009 seemed less than shitty. I take that back, I was just looking at the interior of it and well, it is still the same fucking lame ass GM console that they have been using since the 90s with that shitty green display for the radio, and that same plastic garbage look and feel.

bang up job GM!

[Pax Britannia]

I was almost killed by a Volkswagen Golf today and I couldnt help thinking "Looks like the Jerries have finally got me".

[Claydon]

bang up job GM!

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c145/idexx/buick_lacrosse_super_2009_dashbo-1.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c145/idexx/buick_lacrosse_super_2009_dashboard.jpg

[Hoser]

Does GM still have AC Delco make their stereos and HVAC?? Sure looks like it.

[Claydon]

Does GM still have AC Delco make their stereos and HVAC?? Sure looks like it.

probably....I mean really? That shit looks identical to what my friend's dad had in his Chevy Blazer in 1993.

[TylerDurden]

i agree with you completely, but she is still a wife, if that makes any sense. She is rather, conservative for lack of a better word. To her a car is merely 4 wheels with an engine thingy that takes one from point a to b. Granted, my cars have basically always been just that, just a car. However, I have always kept them in the best running condition possible (the shop always smiles when i walk in) and I mean for fuck sakes, I was born and raised in los angeles you live and die by the car. I am sure it will work out, although when I got that humidor and cigars that did not go over very well.

and as your wife you sit her the fuck down and you rationalize with her.

you say, "baby, here's the thing: we do everything by the book. we bought the plain tea cozies instead of the floral print because they're cheaper and less likely to stain other laundry in the washer. we bought the economy furniture covers because they're more durable and hold that shiny, plasticy luster for longer. we bought the acrylic clear display case on the mantle for my balls to be displayed rather than the glass because it's cheaper and less prone to having dust settle on it. honey, the list could go on and on. bottom line: we're doing buying the economy version of everything, and we make sure we have every little last detail covered for longevity and durability. christ, the pants i'm wearing went out of style five years ago. and for what? let's do something crazy. let's live on the edge a little. let's get the bmw z4m with manual transmission. we'll do a slow roll through the countryside on sundays with the top down, just me and you. you can even take my balls out of that case so they can get some air. and the next time we get a new car i'll let you pick a nice audi with all the bells and whistles! how about it?"

if that doesn't work go out and buy the car. if she complains, spank her face with a shovel. when she wakes up show her the car and tell her that you said it was okay while she was "blacked out". if she says something about the shovel, tell her it was a bad dream. if she wants to file for divorce, at least you know you'll get the car because she never wanted it anyways.

[Trident]

I can never understand why you fussy Americans accept such poor quality cars.

[Claydon]

lulz!

well, the z4 is for cruising through wine country. even she has admitted that it sounds more pleasant than rolling in our 2002 toyota camry :D

[Claydon]

I can never understand why you fussy Americans accept such poor quality cars.

most of us do not, hence the US automakers are on life support. I pretty much only drive japanese cars, and hopefully in the not too far distant future I will drive german.

[Pax Britannia]

I test drove a Toyota once. It made me feel like i'd failed at life.

[Claydon]

I kept reading that this was going to herald a new era for Buick and GM, appealing to the urban youth market etc etc etc etc

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c145/idexx/buick_lacrosse_super_2009_dashbo-2.jpg


(slow clap)

[Trident]

I test drove a Toyota once. It made me feel like i'd failed at life.

You don't need a Toyota to tell you that.

<3

[}{arlequin]

although when I got that humidor and cigars that did not go over very well.
why would getting a small wooden box have any sort of drama attached to it in the first place? doesn't she have a jewelry box? (unless she keeps the shiny stuff in the drawer in a tupperware container...)

[Claydon]

I test drove a Toyota once. It made me feel like i'd failed at life.

what model?

technically speaking the best car I ever owned was a 1986 toyota camry, manual. The thing was ugly as sin, and basically just a beast of a thing. however, I got it for $500 with 190,000 miles and put on another 100,000 miles on it and only did oil changes and a few other standard repairs on it.

[Claydon]

why would getting a small wooden box have any sort of drama attached to it in the first place? doesn't she have a jewelry box? (unless she keeps the shiny stuff in the drawer in a tupperware container...)

she thinks cigars are 'icky'

[Trident]

I remember someone posting a poll in the other place about who could drive a manual car, I was amazed at how many of you didn't over there. Half the fun of driving is playing with the gears... although there is something to be said for automatics on some cars, like my Dad's Discovery.

[TylerDurden]

I kept reading that this was going to herald a new era for Buick and GM, appealing to the urban youth market etc etc etc etc

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c145/idexx/buick_lacrosse_super_2009_dashbo-2.jpg


(slow clap)

wutdafukizzat?!

gm says: take a look at the future and innovation of general motors.
*pulls cover off the same shit they've been shitting onto america for the last thirty years*

my fucking gramma would love that car.

[Claydon]

I remember someone posting a poll in the other place about who could drive a manual car, I was amazed at how many of you didn't over there. Half the fun of driving is playing with the gears... although there is something to be said for automatics on some cars, like my Dad's Discovery.

sit in Los Angeles traffic for 2 hours and tell me how much FUN a manual transmission is....

[Pax Britannia]

what model?

Toyota Corolla

[Claydon]

wutdafukizzat?!

gm says: take a look at the future and innovation of general motors.
*pulls cover off the same shit they've been shitting onto america for the last thirty years*

my fucking gramma would love that car.

i know!

the exterior of the car has promise, and the engine has some potential as well, but it is ultimately the same pile of shit once you peel away the patina of promises.

As a wise man once said...you can't polish a turd.

[TylerDurden]

sit in Los Angeles traffic for 2 hours and tell me how much FUN a manual transmission is....

blast through wine country in a z4m with an automatic and tell me how much fun that is. that's like fucking a paraplegic supermodel.

[Claydon]

Toyota Corolla

dude, those things are solid economy cars. I had one for 4 years and drove that thing into the ground. I abused the fuck out of it. if you want fuel economy, quality etc it is a great car. if you want performance and soul.....move down the line.

[Trident]

sit in Los Angeles traffic for 2 hours and tell me how much FUN a manual transmission is....

Do you find it tiring pressing a clutch pedal and shifting a gear lever?

[}{arlequin]

sit in Los Angeles traffic for 2 hours and tell me how much FUN a manual transmission is....
excuses.


like europeans don't sit in traffic. ever.

[Claydon]

blast through wine country in a z4m with an automatic and tell me how much fun that is. that's like fucking a paraplegic supermodel.

did i suggest i would get an automatic? NO! whatever i purchase would not be for transportation but rather for pleasure...so yah i would get a manual.

[}{arlequin]

she thinks cigars are 'icky'
which is probably why she doesn't smoke them. i don't see how you owning a box for them is going to make that any more of a temptation for her.

[Claydon]

Do you find it tiring pressing a clutch pedal and shifting a gear lever?

after a two hours or more...yes. I have gotten some really bad leg cramps from doing it day in and day out for years. if i want something for pleasure driving i would go automatic, if i want something for transportation i would go with an automatic.

[Pax Britannia]

dude, those things are solid economy cars. I had one for 4 years and drove that thing into the ground. I abused the fuck out of it. if you want fuel economy, quality etc it is a great car. if you want performance and soul.....move down the line.

I've always classed myself as the kind of driver that puts fuel economy and build quality above the joy of the drive and looks....until I drove a Toyota. Then I realised that it is possible to make a truely soulless car.

Dont get me wrong, i'm not saying it's a bad car. It's just like eating vanilla ice cream, sure i'll eat it but I would choose any other flavour.

[Trident]

My Mum now has an Auris (the successor to the Corolla) diesel, and to be fair it's not that bad to drive. Looks wise, it's ok-ish but no... not like an Alfa 159 Sportwagon.

[Claydon]

I've always classed myself as the kind of driver that puts fuel economy and build quality above the joy of the drive and looks....until I drove a Toyota. Then I realised that it is possible to make a truely soulless car.

Dont get me wrong, i'm not saying it's a bad car. It's just like eating vanilla ice cream, sure i'll eat it but I would choose any other flavour.

I concur, but if you are not a wealthy man you can get them used for a good price, parts are plentiful and cheap, and they are easy to work on. I even replaced the head gasket on mine. that was a real fucking joy.

[}{arlequin]

after a two hours or more...yes. I have gotten some really bad leg cramps from doing it day in and day out for years. if i want something for pleasure driving i would go automatic, if i want something for transportation i would go with an automatic.
travesty.


i predict you'll end up in a 1 series, FOUR door, color of her choice, and automatic (but cloth seats)

[Claydon]

travesty.


i predict you'll end up in a 1 series, FOUR door, color of her choice, and automatic (but cloth seats)

in pink?

[Pax Britannia]

in pink?

With furry dice hanging from the mirror and a cover over the steering wheel.

[Hoser]

For me my DD will be auto, my fun car a stick.

[Archangel]

Leg cramps from the clutch?


I'd understand if we were talking about a '79 Lamborghini, but anything else, mate, buy a bicycle or something.

[TylerDurden]

in pink?

on behalf of bmw owners everywhere i'd have to push that shit off a cliff somewhere with you and your wife inside

if you're going to buy a pink bmw you might as well go the whole nine yards of faggotry and buy a pink 318ti. if you don't know what it is look it up. pure faggotry.

[Hoser]

the 318ti is one of the worst BMW's ever. I cannot think of anything worse.

[Archangel]

I can.


The 316ti and the 318td.

[Hoser]

I dont know if either of those were ever sold in Canada.

[Ethix]

A lot of people talk about how bad the car industry is in the US and I really don't think it's the fault of the consumers or the dealers. I honestly think it all comes down to stupid mechanics.

If it were cheaper to repair a european car in the US, I think more people would buy BMW, Audi, VW, etc. It's just that most mechanics are idiots and they see a BMW pull in and automatically overcharge you.....and then procede to fuck the car up when they try to fix it.

Estimates based on what I've seen locally:

Brake pads installation on a Buick - $40 per axle (front/rear) plus $20-40 for parts.

Brake pads installation on an Audi - $100 per hour plus $80 for parts. (and somehow it takes over an hour to do the job)

It's pretty much the exact same fucking job, but they see that it's German and you get raped on the price. Basically, if you buy a European car in the US you better learn to fix it yourself.

[}{arlequin]

no. it IS the fault of the consumers b/c they keep on buying the crap that's made in the u.s.

sure parts cost more but it's because the cars are made better. the parts themselves are better. pressure cast aluminum suspensions instead of stamped steel. which part costs more to manufacture?

i don't think brake pads are a good example, but even then, euro cars get put on the 'ring. stock or not, those pads (brakes) *have to* last for at least one lap. buicks don't. so even the pads are made of better (more costly) materials.

you just can't get something for nothing.

[Hoser]

First off parts are going to cost a lot more for a German car, so that is going to raise the price and that is not the mechanics fault.

Second, German cars have complex systems which take extra training to understand and know how to fix.

Third, people who buy cars such as Audi and BMW are buying an image. They pay more for this and are willing to pay more to have the car kept in running order.

Fourth, These companies sell the cars for a lot more. It isn't the upkeep that is keeping Jim bob from owning one, it is the $60,000 price tag. They have more engineering put in to them so they cost more. they have to be shipped trans Atlantic, so they cost more. There are many other reasons as well.

Also an average shop will not charge you more per hour to work on your Audi, but if you go to the Audi dealership you will pay more. That is the nature of the beast, you have to pay the most to have the best.


Also mechanics charge based on the time the book says a job will take. They always charge at least 1 hour labour, even if it is only a 20 minute job. They also charge 3 hours for a 3 hour job even if it only takes them 2.

[Hoser]

Plus Mechanics are skilled labour, they should be making good money. Joe Blow doing up bolts on the assembly line need to take a pay cut. They should not me making $30 or $40 per hour. $15-20 based on how long they have been with the company is more realistic.

[Ethix]

Firstly, you can buy good parts for any car. That isn't limited to German cars. Factory American car parts and many of the aftermarket stuff is junk, but not all of it is. Going back to my brakes example, you can buy nice ceramic brakes for a Buick for around $50-80 or so and that price is the same for a BMW or Audi. There's no reason for the price to be higher, but I agree that it's not the best example. Basically, it's easier to find crappy parts for American cars than European cars and that accounts for a large difference in the repair costs. I understand that, but mechanics make German cars out to be super complicated and try to raise costs when other than some of the electronics, they're not much different to work on.

As for mechanics themselves, I deal with them every day. Most are very low skilled and I wouldn't trust them to even touch my Subaru let alone a BMW. The few good mechanics I know don't make nearly enough money for how much they know and how good a job they do.

I see shady mechanics all the time who rip people off just because they own German and Japanese cars. I had a lady the other day come into the parts store I work at and tell me a local mechanic quoted her $1000 to do brakes and rotors on her car (front and back...and I think it was a Volvo or Saab. I can't remember). I ended up sending her to the dealership and she saved like $500. Most garages I've dealt with take the cost of the parts that they pay from the parts store then double it, then charge labor.

I'm going to stop here or I'll type all day, but when I buy a German car I'll take it to the dealer until the warranty is up then work on it myself.

[Hoser]

As for mechanics themselves, I deal with them every day. Most are very low skilled and I wouldn't trust them to even touch my Subaru let alone a BMW. The few good mechanics I know don't make nearly enough money for how much they know and how good a job they do.



Sorry, I meant real mechanics. Not random lube techs or break job guys. My father owns a shop, he takes courses very often to learn more and become better. I would trust him with any car I ever own.

Also you know some really shady people. I know many mechanics and do not know of anyone who does that.

[Claydon]

Sorry, I meant real mechanics. Not random lube techs or break job guys. My father owns a shop, he takes courses very often to learn more and become better. I would trust him with any car I ever own.

Also you know some really shady people. I know many mechanics and do not know of anyone who does that.

i was going to say he must know some real scum bags.

the guys I go to charge $85 for labor which I think is fair to be honest.

Cheap labor is never good and good labor is never cheap!

[Ethix]

Sorry, I meant real mechanics. Not random lube techs or break job guys. My father owns a shop, he takes courses very often to learn more and become better. I would trust him with any car I ever own.


In that case I agree, most real mechanics should make more money. Hell, anybody who does a skilled job well should make a shitload of money. Carpenters, Mechanics, Electricians, etc.

It's just too bad there are so many unskilled mechanics that fuck it up for the rest. I'm not even talking just about guys that do brake jobs and oil changes though. I'm talking about guys who own their own garages and do pretty much all kinds of jobs. Most of them have no idea what the fuck they're doing. I have no idea how these places even stay in business.

[Ethix]

the guys I go to charge $85 for labor which I think is fair to be honest.




If you found a garage that knows their stuff and only charges $85 per hour, stick with them. You wouldn't believe how crappy most garages are (at least around here).

[Claydon]

If you found a garage that knows their stuff and only charges $85 per hour, stick with them. You wouldn't believe how crappy most garages are (at least around here).


well that is just labor, god knows what kind of mark up they charge for parts.


well i take that back, i know when they get a genuine nissan part vs. aftermarket they charge me cost plus $25 to go and pick it up.

[Ethix]

If they allow it, see if you can bring parts with you and then go buy them from the dealer or at least find out where that garage buys their parts. Most garages like to buy their own parts because they get a discount from parts stores then they make money on the markup, but some will let you bring your own stuff for a small charge.

I get customers bitching all the time about the prices of parts at dealers, but they really aren't that bad on most stuff. Typically they're around or just under double what you pay at Autozone or Advanced, but when you consider how cheap that Autozone crap is, it's really not too bad.

[IdiotBrain]

I go to two different mechanic shops, one went to highschool with my parents, he charges me the cost of the part, and labor. When he's feeling nice he's been known to charge me parts, 20$ labor and an 18 pack of coors light. [this was for a radiator installation]

The other mechanic is the dad of these two sisters I know, I think i'm the only male their age he actually likes. He charges me 20$/hr and parts.

[IdiotBrain]

Also, manual transmissions FTW.

I refuse to purchase any car that is automatic.

Fuck tiptronic bs, fuck paddleshifting[unless you're rally racing] and especially fuck automatic.

[Ethix]

I agree on automatics for the most part except for trucks, suvs, and luxury cars. Everything else I'd want in a manual. No flappy-paddle-gearboxes either.


lol Top Gear is changing my auto terminology. I actually used the term SatNav today when talking about a GPS system. Pretty soon I'll be saying bonnet, boot, and saloon. damnit

[Claydon]

I agree on automatics for the most part except for trucks, suvs, and luxury cars. Everything else I'd want in a manual. No flappy-paddle-gearboxes either.


lol Top Gear is changing my auto terminology. I actually used the term SatNav today when talking about a GPS system. Pretty soon I'll be saying bonnet, boot, and saloon. damnit

they call it satnav?


the brits are the going the way of the french.... gayyyyyyyyyyyyyyy
:rolleyes::p

[Hoser]

If you want fun, fuel economy or control on a circuit you go with a manual. If you want a car that is faster in a straight line or is good for daily driving you go with auto. For me a weekend toy is manual but a DD driving into the city everyday is auto. Every time I get in a car isn't for fun, sometimes I am tired and just want to get to where I am going. If I am buying a luxury car you can be damn sure it will be auto.

I guess for me it is:

Sports car - Manual
Luxury car - Auto

Although some of the new transmissions like the DSG and high end paddle shifting cars are changing things a lot. The fact that an F430 can change gears faster then even the best driver on the face of the planet, with just the flick of a finger is very impressive.

[Ethix]

Although some of the new transmissions like the DSG and high end paddle shifting cars are changing things a lot. The fact that an F430 can change gears faster then even the best driver on the face of the planet, with just the flick of a finger is very impressive.

It's impressive for sure, but is it more fun?

99% of sports car drivers will never need to shift that fast.

I frequent a 350z message board and a few of the guys bought new GTR's when they first came out and are now in the process of selling them because they just aren't as much fun with the flappy paddle gearbox.

[Archangel]

Indeed, and the fact that the flappy paddle shifter on an F430 costs as much as a Ford Focus isn't helping.

Oh, and for some reason, they don't overcharge you here for German car parts...

[TylerDurden]

Indeed, and the fact that the flappy paddle shifter on an F430 costs as much as a Ford Focus isn't helping.

that's because it's derived straight from their formula 1 hardware, if not the same exact hardware.

Oh, and for some reason, they don't overcharge you here for German car parts...

for e46 (i think) 3 series and beyond they shouldn't charge us much either: they're built in south carolina.

[Hoser]

that's because it's derived straight from their formula 1 hardware, if not the same exact hardware.




It was taken from F1 and improved upon. The standard F430 changes in 150 milliseconds, The Scuderia does it in 60ms and the Audi and VW DSG does it in 8ms.

[Hoser]

A good read on paddle vs manual

http://sportscars.clubsportiva.com/2008/02/f1-paddle-shift-vs-6-speed-manual-is.html

The only major con I see to paddles is the lack of a manual clutch that you can feather or dump, at least from a performance point of view, but I guess those could all be covered with launch control and some good heel toeing.

[}{arlequin]

but I guess those could all be covered with launch control and some good heel toeing.
there's no need for heel-n-toe operation (used only when braking/downshifting) when you have flappy paddles and only two pedals. and, as mentioned, launch control does it for you.

[}{arlequin]

they call it satnav?


the brits are the going the way of the french.... gayyyyyyyyyyyyyyy
:rolleyes::p
no.


we're the retards and they are correct(er).

gps means simply that. global positioning blah blah. but it's not WHAT IT DOES because it does a lot more. tells us where to go, how to get around etc, therefore 'satellite NAVIGATION' is actually a more proper way to describe what the gadget in the car does instead of what system (gps) it uses to do that task.

[Gary_Busey]

Who cares what it's called?

[}{arlequin]

ethix and claydon, apparently.

[NOTKyle]

If you were going to search craigslist for a used car under 4 or 5 grand, what makes/models would you guys recommend?

[TylerDurden]

If you were going to search craigslist for a used car under 4 or 5 grand, what makes/models would you guys recommend?

fuel efficient and reliable: camry, accord, civic
fuel efficient and sporty: miata (mx-5)

there are others that you could technically attain for under 4 or 5 grand, but the budget alone tells me you don't want them because their maintenance would rape you.