their success is

Transcription

their success is

F E B R U A R Y / M A R C H
2 0 1 2
Volume 14
Is s ue 1
FREE
Porsche is set
to take centre
stage in the
hybrid world with
the Panamera S Hybrid.
L.A. AUTO SHOW
CES REPORT
‘35 Ford Coupe
CONTENTS
Joining the Hybrid
Movement
Porsche is set to take centre stage
in the world of hybrids..pg 29
ALSO INSIDE:
LA AUTO SHOW
GTI vs. TDI
Is the TDI the next
GTI?
...pg 46
Our coverage of
the Los Angeles
Auto Show
...pg 25
ONE-ON-ONE
Intermeccanica’s Henry Reisner
...pg 60
Colin Chapman
The creator of greatness, the killer
of the great...pg 54
Audi S5 Cabriolet
COBRA STANG
A Ford Mustang
Cobra modified
in a slightly
different way
...pg 36
Audi’s sporty and smooth S5 3.0
TFSI quattro Cabriolet...pg 16
Starting Lines--------------------------------------------------------------- 4
First Drive: Hyundai Veloster--------------------------------------------- 18
Road Test: Subaru Impreza---------------------------------------------- 20
Tire Czar-------------------------------------------------------------------- 22
Road Test: Toyota Prius V ----------------------------------------------- 24
RPM Test Fleet------------------------------------------------------------- 30
Greatest Roads #16------------------------------------------------------- 32
The Truck Guy-------------------------------------------------------------- 34
CES Report ---------------------------------------------------------------- 41
Classic Corner------------------------------------------------------------- 56
Book Review--------------------------------------------------------------- 57
New Product Showcase-------------------------------------------------- 58
Parting Shots-------------------------------------------------------------- 62
‘35 FORD COUPE
Randy
Browning’s
1935 Ford
3-window
coupe...pg 48
RPM Feb / Mar 2012 STARTING LINES
Return of the Dart?
Volume 14, Issue No. 1
February/March 2012
Publisher / Editor:
Dean Washington
[email protected]
Associate Publisher:
David Symons
[email protected]
Advertising Inquiries:
[email protected]
Circulation:
Brenda Washington
[email protected]
New Car Editor
Gerry Frechette
[email protected]
Editorial Coordinator / Graphic Designer
Jordan Allan
[email protected]
Sales & Marketing
Elaine Fontaine
[email protected]
Controller:
B.M. Walker
Contributing Writers/Photographers:
Jordan Allan
Gerry Frechette
Dave MacKinnon
Nigel Matthews
Russell Purcell
Budd Stanley
T
he Dodge Dart was an iconic car of the ‘60s and ‘70s,
but Dodge is bringing the name back, and who would
have thought it would be based on Alfa Romeo DNA? Dart
marks the Dodge brand’s re-entry into the compact sedan
segment, and after teasing us for some time with detail photos, now we get to see what the Dart looks like in full light.
Dodge says that the new Dart is the first Chrysler Group
vehicle based upon a Fiat architecture, adapted from the
award-winning Alfa Romeo Giulietta, and will get its power from three four-cylinder engines. Buyers
can select from a new Tigershark 16-valve 2.0-litre engine, a 16-valve 1.4-litre MultiAir Intercooled
Turbo engine, and a new Tigershark 16-valve 2.4-litre MultiAir normally-aspirated engine. The Dart
will be built stateside at Chrysler Group’s Belvidere Assembly Plant in Belvidere, Illinois and should
hit showroom floors later this year as a 2013 model.
Ferrari President Montezemolo Running for Italian PM
As if Italian politics couldn’t get any more ridiculous, word is that the leader of the nation’s most iconic
and beloved business could be running for Prime Minister
after the leave of Silvio Berlusconi. While it may sound just
as ridiculous as leaving Berlusconi in power, however, when
digging into Luca di Montezemolo’s background, it may not
be as crazy as it seems. As a member of Italy’s hereditary
aristocracy and a lawyer by profession, Montezemolo was a
prodigy of both Enzo Ferrari and former Fiat chairman Gianni
Agnelli and quickly rose up the ranks in both companies to
preside over each. He’s also chaired influential industrial
groups and coordinated the 1990 FIFA World Cup held in
Italy, not to mention the America’s Cup sailing team and
high-speed rail company he’s run. In the cut-throat world of
auto manufacturing, he might just be the man to lift Italy out of the financial crisis that is gripping
that nation.
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Lexus CT200h Getting Wild with
F-Sport Package?
When testing the CT200h for the first time back in
February last year, we had great hopes for Lexus
to produce a fun little performance hatch. And while
we did like the car’s styling and firm handling, an
anemic engine and rather annoying CVT transmission left quite a bit of fun and performance on the
table. However, Lexus has just announced that for
2012, the CT will be available with a new F-Sport
package. The press release reads that this new
package is inspired by the LFA and ISF and will
present Canadians with endless moments of fun.
A bump in power, some lightening of the body and
maybe even a manual 6-speed would go a long way
in upping the fun level of the CT, but perusing the
press release reveals that other than some improved
suspension damping, there are no real mechanical
improvements. The package mainly focuses on the
addition of metal trim, aggressive grille, spoiler and
seat design and lots of embroidery to set the F-Sport
apart from your run-of-the-mill CT200h.
Volvo Teases With XC60 Plug-in Hybrid
Nissan, GM, Mitsubishi, Toyota, Honda and Ford
have all made massive marketing pushes to flaunt
their latest electrified eco vehicles. However, there
has been little news coming from Volvo on this subject, but something interesting this way comes from
Göteborg, Sweden, and it involves the use of two
motors mounted in opposite ends of the car. The
XC60 Plug-in Hybrid Concept has its front wheels
powered by a four-cylinder turbocharged gasoline
engine from the forthcoming VEA (Volvo Environ-
Publishing Schedule: RPM is published 6 times per year by RPM Media Inc. Every second month.
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Second class mailing #40050183.
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Reprints with permission only. Advertisements are accepted in good faith, but we suggest that it is in
your best interest to check offers personally. Publication by rpm motoring monthly should not be taken
as an endorsement of the product or services offered. The publisher assumes no responsibility for the
return of any materials sent to our offices by individuals or organizations.
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Website: www.rpmcanada.ca
RPM Feb / Mar 2012
mental Architecture) engine family, combined with
an electric motor with 70 hp and 148 lb-ft of torque
feeding the rear wheels. In Pure mode, the car is
powered solely by its electric motor as much as
possible. The operational range is up to 45 km
with zero tailpipe emissions in urban traffic, while
capable of 0-100 km/h in 6.1 seconds with both
working in unison. Volvo says this plug-in hybrid
technology, featuring the upcoming Volvo Environmental Architecture engine family, will reach North
American showrooms in a couple of years.
STARTING LINES
Subaru Shows Race-Ready BRZ?
The Tokyo Auto Show had some interesting surprises in store for
automotive journalists, but one that piqued our interest was this
early example of what Subaru’s next GT300 car will look like for
the 2012 edition of Japan’s SuperGT racing series. For those who
don’t know, the SuperGT series is Japan’s most popular racing
series, pitting wildly modified versions of production cars against
each other in two different classes, GT300 and GT500. The 300
and 500 refer to the limited horsepower for the class, which means
the 2.0L Boxer-4 hidden under that heavily vented hood will be
held to 300 hp. The BRZ will be replacing the Impreza, which
has competed in the class for the better part of a decade, likely
sparking yet another beautiful relationship between Subaru and
racing. Let’s hope Subaru Canada has similar ambitions.
the Conner Avenue Assembly Plant in Detroit for the production
of the next-generation SRT Viper. With the plant’s reopening,
nearly 150 jobs, both hourly and salaried, will return to the City
of Detroit. The Conner facility was idled when production of the
Dodge Viper ended in July 2010. As for the car itself, no real
details have been released about one of America’s most iconic
sports cars; however, we do know that Chrysler is keen to keep
the manic V10 rumbling under the hood. The next generation
Viper is due out late this year as a 2013 model.
The IIHS Announces Its Latest “TOP SAFETY
PICKS”
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety has recently come
out with its latest round of “TOP SAFETY PICKS,” with the addition of 18 new vehicles joining the 97 models that have already
qualified for the list, of which 12 were not SUVs or trucks. The
Return of the Snake
While the news of the Dart making a return is welcome news, big shaker this year was Honda, dominating half that number,
there are more sinister plots afoot in Detroit. We learned last
year from sources inside Chrysler that the Viper would make a
comeback in 2012, likely based on an Alfa backbone. However,
the writing is now on the wall as Chrysler announces it will reopen
RPM Feb / Mar 2012
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improving the Fit, CR-Z, Insight, Accord,
Acura TSX and Acura TL into their respective top spots. The other winners include
the Toyota Yaris, Camry and Prius V, Scion
xD, Subaru Impreza and Buick Verano. In
all, 69 cars, 38 SUVs, five minivans, and
a rather concerning three pickups earn
TOP SAFETY PICK. The award recognizes
vehicles that do the best job of protecting occupants in front, side, rollover, and
rear crashes based on ratings in Institute
evaluations. The ratings, which cover all
four of the most common kinds of crashes,
help shoppers pick vehicles that offer the
highest levels of crash protection. Because
the federal government now requires all
2012 and later passenger vehicles to have
electronic stability control to help drivers
avoid loss-of-control crashes, ESC no
longer is a requirement to win as it was in
prior years.
Alberta man wins 2011 Dodge Challenger SXT
There is one more proud Dodge owner in Alberta, thanks to an
exciting partnership between A&W Food Services of Canada Inc.
and Chrysler Canada. John Le Blanc of Sunset House, Alberta
is the lucky winner of a legendary made-in-Canada 2011 Dodge
Challenger SXT Plus. Le Blanc was presented with the car on
Nov. 8 at the A&W restaurant in High Prairie by franchisee Louise
Owens, Mike Daubet of Big Lakes Chrysler, and The Great A&W
Root Bear®. The Challenger is the grand prize in this summer’s
A&W Cruisin’ the Dub® contest, part of A&W’s national Cruisin’
the Dub program that invites car enthusiasts to share their passions and their memories at A&W restaurants. A&Ws across
Canada hosted thousands of events this past season, with
10 RPM Feb / Mar 2012
many more planned for 2012. Earlier this summer a resident of
Southwestern Ontario won the spring Cruisin’ the Dub prize of
a 2011 Harley Davidson Fat Boy® motorcycle. More information
about Cruisin’ the Dub is available at http://www.aw.ca/cruisinthe-dub.nsf/home.
Ford Goes Electric in 2012
For 2012, Ford is joining the electric car wars in a big way, and
launching the new mid-size Fusion sedan, with a version for every taste in fuel efficiency. Leading the way is the Fusion Energi
plug-in hybrid, aiming to be the most fuel-efficient midsize car in
the world. Arriving this fall, it is anticipated to deliver more than
100 MPGe, a mile-per-gallon equivalency metric for electrified
STARTING LINES
vehicles. The Fusion Hybrid continues to evolve with lithiumion batteries that save weight and generate more power than
previous nickel-metal hydride batteries, while raising maximum
speed under electric-only power to 100 km/h, and generating 22
percent better efficiency. The three available gasoline-powered
engines are all four cylinders, including two turbo direct-injection EcoBoost units of 1.6 and 2.0 litres, the latter, with 237 hp,
being the performance version. The C-MAX compact multi-activity vehicle will also be available in Energi and Hybrid models,
while the Focus compact sedan gains a fully electric model that
features faster charging technology, allowing it to fully recharge
in three to four hours at 240V – half the time of other new EVs
on the market.
The Saab Story Continues
The unending drama that is unfolding over in Trollhättan, Sweden,
may finally be coming to an end, but there doesn’t seem to be any
light at the end of the tunnel. Saab has finally filed for bankruptcy
protection in a Swedish district court. Saab CEO Victor Muller
reportedly turned in the bankruptcy application just hours before
a court was set to rule on the company’s reorganization, but just
because headquarters has filed doesn’t mean that Saab North
America will follow suit. The filing comes two years to the day
after General Motors’ filing. Saab has been in a state of limbo
since production was halted in April when the cash ran dry. Since
then, a soap opera has ensued with possible suitors, Chinese
companies Youngman and Pang Da, showing interest in
the Swedish automaker. However, each deal has been
shot down by GM, which has expressed concern with
Saab working so closely with its direct competition in
China. As a result of the bankruptcy, the North American
much stronger with the signing of Frenchman Sebastian Ogier.
For those new to rallying, Ogier has been under the tutelage
of his unbeatable teammate, Sebastian Loeb, who has singlehandedly destroyed all comers in a Schumacher-like manner,
winning the last eight World Championships with ease. Ogier is
no pushover himself, being Loeb’s only real competition, and is
said to be capable of even greater promise, which looks good
for VW, having such a prodigy at the wheel of the Polo WRC
next season.
branch of Saab is suspending the payment of new car,
powertrain, emissions and parts warranties, along with
recall campaigns, certified pre-owned coverage and
no-charge maintenance programs. In addition, all new
vehicles will be sold “as is.” Hopefully this won’t be the
end to such a unique car maker.
VW WRC Effort Strengthened With Ogier
Volkswagen has proclaimed that it will join the World
Rally Championship in 2012, and with a new car on
the way with help from VW-owned Skoda’s own competitive rally car development, VW just made its team
RPM Feb / Mar 2012 11
Electrifying performance in a
luxurious package
Story and photos by Russell Purcell
H
ybrid automotive technologies have become an integral part of the marketplace as growing concerns for the deplorable condition of our
environment and out-of-control fuel prices have manufacturers and consumers alike looking for viable solutions to alleviate some of the
more immediate problems. As a company, Porsche was late to the hybrid party, but you knew that once they hit the dance floor, their product
would take centre stage. Following in the footsteps of the Cayenne S Hybrid which debuted last year, Porsche has added the Panamera S
Hybrid to its catalogue for the 2012 model year. This luxurious green machine is the most fuel-efficient Panamera in the line-up.
It should come as no surprise that the Panamera S Hybrid shares the bulk of its powertrain with that fitted to its Cayenne sibling. The
foundation for both systems is the 3.0-litre supercharged V6 that Porsche pinched from the inventory of its corporate cousin Audi, which
uses this peppy powerplant to motivate the popular S4 sports sedan.
The system is a parallel hybrid that allows the car to operate on electric power, the gasoline engine, or a combination of both when
the driver is looking for acceleration. The supercharged gasoline engine is good for 333 horsepower on its own accord, and 325 lb-ft of
torque. By adding the electric motor, horsepower climbs to 380 and torque becomes a potent 428 lb-ft. Unfortunately, the Panamera
S Hybrid is only available with an eight-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmission, and not the super-fast PDK. All-wheel drive is also
12 At The Wheel RPM Feb / Mar 2012
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With a twist of the key the car comes to life, but not with the roar
of a conventional Porsche automobile. Instead, at the touch of a
console-mounted button, the car will operate in “e-power “ mode
on electric power alone for the first couple of kilometres up to a
speed of 85 km/h. This will no doubt help you save some money
at the pump as, like all Porsches, the Panamera S Hybrid sips the
good stuff. Once the power reserve is exhausted, or you exceed
its speed limitation, the gas engine will come on with purpose.
not part of this recipe, as this latest Panamera is only available in
rear-wheel drive form.
Acceleration is very quick for such a large car (0-100 km/h runs
take a mere six seconds), but I didn’t get the opportunity to execute
any hard launches due to inclement weather conditions and the
fact that the car was rolling on brand-new winter tires. This is too
bad because the car was loaded for track fun as it was equipped
with paddle shifters, Porsche Active Suspension Management
(PASM), and the Sport Chrono Package.
The car seemed more than content to putt around at 100 km/h
in eighth gear at a very low 1,900 rpm. However, acceleration is
instantaneous when you find the need to pass a slower vehicle or
avoid a dangerous situation. The transmission will drop to second
gear to get the party going and then quickly cycle through the
successive gears before settling back to a comfortable cruise in
eighth gear. Passing is not a concern in this car. I should point
out that the six-cylinder Panamera 4 that I tested last year felt
anaemic and overburdened during similar manoeuvres, which
made me uncomfortable. I did not experience that in this vehicle.
In fact, I had the utmost confidence in its abilities and predictable
handling.
Now, here is the cool part about driving this car. I have a local
driving route I like to take test vehicles on as it provides me with
a wide range of road surfaces, invigorating sections to explore
handling, and a nice mixture of hills, highways and byways. Typically, this test circuit takes me about two hours to complete, as
long as I don’t stop for photo opportunities. On the day I explored
this route in the Panamera S Hybrid, it took the full two hours to
complete as I was behaving. The cool thing is that for a large
portion of that time, I was running under electric power. That’s
right, the gasoline engine was taking a break. This occurs when
the car is operating at higher cruising speeds, such as on the
highway, or descending a long hill. When the driver lifts his or
her foot off the accelerator, this signals the system to disengage
the engine and enlist the battery packs to feed the drivetrain
and maintain the car’s momentum. Porsche refers to this unique
event as “sailing,” and it really is neat to behold. The car is very
quiet, and as long as you don’t hit the pedals, will continue until
the battery packs are depleted. During my two hour drive, the
Engine Off Time screen display revealed that the car had been
in “sailing” mode for 36 minutes.
The Panamera S Hybrid is basically the same car as a Panamera
S when it comes to both packaging and equipment levels. However
there are a few noticeable changes, including the addition of a
special system status screen to allow the driver to monitor how
the parallel hybrid system is working at any given time.
The Panamera is a four-seater, much like its corporate cousin,
the Audi A7. What this means is four very lucky individuals get
more room to stretch out. The front seats have been designed for
spirited driving as well as comfort. The two rear seats mimic the
fronts, which gives the passenger cabin an even more exclusive
look. My test vehicle featured top-quality leather over most of
the seating (and panel) surfaces with bold exposed stitching and
perforated inserts to help control heat dissipation. Distinctive black
wood trim complemented the dark interior.
The car features the same waterfall centre console as the other
Panamera models with what at first seems like a zillion buttons,
but after some time behind the wheel, you realize that the complex array is actually quite simple. In short order, you will intuitively know which part of the geography to reach for when you
are looking for a certain function. There are also controls on the
headliner for proximity sensors, Home-link, sunroof controls and
various cabin lighting.
The car’s shifter features a comfy grip, and manual shifting can be
executed via the side shift gate or by using the paddle controls.
A Bose-engineered premium audio system was on board to tickle
the ears, and the company’s latest navigation system worked
very well. The centre armrest features a 12-volt power port as
well as an auxiliary input and a USB port for connecting portable
electronic devices. I find that the Bluetooth system utilized by
Porsche works better than that in most cars and I had no problems
connecting my BlackBerry to the system, and sound quality and
functionality were top-notch.
ability to raise the car at the touch of a button if you find the need
to clear snow or shallow road debris, or conversely, to lower the
car to allow for more efficient ingress or egress.
My test vehicle also included paddle shifters and the Sport Chrono
Package which places a stylish lap timer in a perforated recess at the
centre of the dash. When operating the car in Sport (or Sport Plus)
mode, seventh gear becomes your ceiling as the engine mapping
All the gauges and most of the controls are easy to see and reach and gearbox become optimized for high-performance rather than
from the driver’s position. The majority of gauges in the instrument fuel efficiency.
There is plenty of cargo room in a Panamera as the rear seatbacks
fold forward to extend the size of the cargo area. You should have
little problem squeezing four sets of golf clubs into the hold with the
seats in place, as long as you remove the cargo screen. Surprisingly
for this day and age, there is only a single glove box, but there are
various bins and cubbies spread throughout the cabin.
The Panamera’s exterior styling is very unique and is not for everyone,
but I must admit that I had lots of passersby comment on the car’s
obvious style. The same cannot be said for the colour. The press car
was cloaked in Crystal Green Metallic, a colour which would probably
look great on a traditional executive sedan but for some reason looked
out of place on the curvaceous Panamera. It seemed too mature for
this car, and kind of reminded me of a colour that would be featured
on a bridesmaid’s dress.
Since you are buying this car to be a good environmental citizen,
there are several hybrid badges on the car’s exterior, including script
cluster feature black faces, but the tachometer has a gray face. on both front doors and on the rear hatch.
This centrally-mounted gauge also acts as home to a secondary,
digital speedometer, a gear position indicator, and a full arsenal I understand the concept of a luxury hybrid vehicle, and why someone
of warning lights. The use of highly-visible LED illumination for may want to own one. It offers you, as the owner, the ability to deflect
this information is excellent. A “Hybrid” graphic is also featured some of the pointed fingers and wave a “green” flag to express to your
on the face of the tachometer, but also has its own gauge in the neighbours that you are doing something positive for the environment,
driver information centre that tells you what is happening with the albeit behind the wheel of a high-performance automobile. The good
system’s various functions.
news is that the engineers at Porsche managed to make the driving
experience so similar to that of the traditional version of the car that it
My only gripes pertain to the strange placement for the window is easy to forget that you are, in fact, driving a hybrid automobile.
controls and the lack of rear visibility. Window and mirror controls
are placed in an odd location on the driver’s door panel, right
SPECIFICATIONS
where your knee hits, and require you to place your wrist at a
strange angle. Visibility is great out the front and to the side, but
Technical Specifications: ................................. 2012 Porsche Panamera S Hybrid
the rear-view can be blocked when you have a passenger in the
Base Price (MSRP): ...............................................................................$108,700
back seat as they tend to lean in to communicate with the front
Price as tested: ......................................................................................$127,295
occupants, and by the wide pillars and relatively small rear window.
Type: ...............................................................5-door, 4-passenger luxury sedan.
Luckily, there are park assist sensors and an available rear-view
Engine: 3.0-litre DFI supercharged V6 with electric motor assist (Parallel Full
Hybrid drive system)
camera system to facilitate backing manoeuvres and parking.
The car was well-equipped for the Canadian climate as it had
heating elements in the seats, and an exceptional heating and
ventilation system. Porsche’s three-mode, adaptive air suspension is on board as standard equipment which gives users the
Horsepower:.333 @ 5,500 rpm (Gas only); 380 @ 5,500 rpm (Hybrid combined)
Torque (lb-ft):....... 325 @ 3000-5250 rpm; 427 @ 1,000 rpm (Hybrid combined)
Transmission: ......8-Speed Tiptronic S with Auto Start-Stop function capabilities
Brakes: . ................................................................................................. Disc/disc
Top speed: .............................................................................................270 km/h
Acceleration (0-100 km/h): ...................................................................... 6.0 sec.
Fuel consumption [L/100 km]: . ...........................................City 7.6 L; Hwy 6.8 L
At The Wheel RPM Feb / Mar 2012 15
ROAD TEST - AUDI S5 CABRIOLET
What’s in a name?
2012 Audi S5 3.0 TFSI quattro Cabriolet
Story and photos by Gerry Frechette
T
as usual, is S5 3.0 TFSI quattro Cabriolet, with Premium trim, and at
least the long moniker tells a lot about the car.
here is no shortage of cars whose tops go down, thankfully, and,
a huge variety of cars within that group, from all-out sports cars The 3.0 refers to what is under the hood, and it’s not the lusty 4.2 V8
still available in the S Coupe. For all the usual reasons, the cylinder
to big luxobarges with no real sporting pretensions.
count has dropped and forced induction has been added, and the reAnd then, there is the wide range in between, from practical to luxu- sult is the 3.0-litre supercharged V6 with direct injection. Torque is the
rious, but all with that unique feature, al fresco motoring. They are same as the V8 but available even sooner, horsepower is only slightly
called various names, too – convertible is a kind of generic term - but less (at 333), consumption and emissions are improved, and it is just
if they are called “cabriolets,” you can be reasonably certain that they as responsive, if not sounding quite as muscular. The run to 100 km/h
originate from Germany, and that they will combine varying degrees takes about five-and-a-half seconds.
of performance, luxury and exclusivity, all at a price.
Contributing to both both sporty and smooth performance is Audi’s latest
Such is the case with the Audi S5 Cabriolet, the performance version S Tronic seven-speed dual-clutch manumatic gearbox that generates
of the otherwise very nice A5. The full model name, a lengthy one lightning-fast shifts, either left to its own devices in “Sport” mode, or
via the paddle shifters. A manual transmission
is not offered, unfortunately for some.
The Variable Gear Shifting (normal or sport)
is part of the Sport Differential package that
includes the rear end that can direct more
torque to the outside wheel in a corner for
more balance and speed, Normal or Sport
modes for steering and throttle response, and
Auto Drive Select with Auto, Comfort and Dynamic modes for the suspension. With these
choices, either sporty or smooth performance
is just a click away, and the quattro all-wheel
drive manages the traction and control on the
mechanical end.
So which modes did we prefer? The Sport
and Dynamic modes, of course, as firmer
suspension plus sharper steering and throttle
response are just more involving. And, it has to
be said, they help manage the not-inconsiderable weight of the S5 Cabrio, some 1,954 kg
(4,300 pounds). That folding roof, the AWD
and the necessary structural reinforcements
are not lightweight items.
ROAD TEST - AUDI S5 CABRIOLET
The S5 could be even heavier if the roof was one of the now-popular
folding metal versions, but it is an old-fashioned fabric one that is as
nicely constructed as any in the industry, and takes up less room
in the trunk when down, allowing a couple of golf bags back there,
but then of course, there is less security with a fabric top. The rear
seats fold down, and longer items like skis can be slid under the
top compartment in the trunk. In any case, with the top down, the
body exhibits very little of the flexing we used to take for granted in
a convertible.
We’ve come to expect pretty interiors from Audi, and the S5 is no
different, although the sport seats are quite aggressive looking. They
are worth it, though, with great support and something those who are
long of leg can really appreciate, an extendable under-thigh support.
The rear seats are, as expected, a bit cramped, and you can’t use
them anyway if the very effective wind deflector is deployed behind
the front seats, as it had better be to avoid the very strong turbulence
without it. Think of that rear seat area as an extra padded luggage
space.
Our S5 tester had the optional Navigation package with the latest MMI
driver interface, and we are lukewarm to its functionality, especially
when it takes several steps to perform a function that should take
just one on a simpler system, and it diverts the driver’s attention from
the road. But that just seems to be the nature of all high-tech control
systems these days. Other options include metallic or pearl paint,
carbon fibre trim and B&O Audio. Our tester had the latter two, and
for $1,100, the audio upgrade is a no-brainer.
The revised 2013 S5 model will arrive by the middle of the year, but it
is not expected to be significantly different in design or concept from
the current 2012 model, so going for the S5 now is not a decision
you are likely to regret when you see the new one. The formula is
by now well entrenched by Audi, as the S5 is an all-rounder, a daily
driver even, more of an athletic GT than a sports car, somewhere
between the sportier BMW 335i and the more luxurious MercedesBenz E350 cabrios.
We think the formula is a good one.
SPECIFICATIONS
Price: base/as tested: ............................................................. $72,000/$78,300
Type of vehicle: .......................................Front-engine AWD 2-door convertible
Engine: .................................................................Supercharged 3.0L DOHC V6
Power: . .............................................................................333 hp @ 5,300 rpm
Torque: . ......................................................................... 325 lb-ft @ 1,500 rpm
Transmission: . ....................................................Seven-speed DSG manumatic
Brakes: ...................................................................... Four-wheel disc with ABS
Tires: ............................................................................. P255/35R19 (optional)
Curb weight: . ...................................................................................... 1,954 kg
Transport Canada fuel consumption (L/100 km): ...................12.9 city, 8.1 hwy.
FIRST DRIVE - HYUNDAI VELOSTER
Catering to Enthusiasts
W
ith all the attention being given to segments like crossovers and anything with electric motors, it might seem that
there would be little interest anymore in small sport coupes.
But thankfully, the manufacturers still cater to enthusiasts, and
Hyundai, having hit a few home runs the last couple of years
and possessing a good compact car platform, has taken the
plunge in a big way with the new Veloster.
yield 4.9L/100 km efficiency on the highway, so that is a fair
trade off.
Once you get up to speed, the Veloster is fun out on a twisty road,
with a firm suspension set-up and good traction, at least with the
optional 18-inch wheels on the ones we drove.
Given its intended audience, the level of technology standard or
optional is no surprise. The features include MP3/USB aux input,
450w 10-speaker audio, navigation, 16GB memory, voice recognition, RCA jack for video games, and 7-inch touch-screen display.
Included in its $18,999 base price are air conditioning, back-up
camera, heated front seats, cruise control, telescoping steering,
and steering-wheel-mounted controls. The loaded Tech Package
is $22,499, and the DCT adds $1,400.
We first saw the concept Veloster about four years ago, and the
production version differs little. The design is quite unique in the
class, with Hyundai describing it as a “carving ray.” We’ll call it
edgy and different (some might say odd), probably just like the
young, urban crowd it is trying to attract. Of note is that it is a
three-door, with two portals on the passenger side, allowing
The front seats are comfortable and supportive, and there is good
easy access to the rear seat.
legroom and headroom for the driver and front passenger. The rear
Hyundai has endowed the little coupe with its latest technology, seat is, no surprise, suitable only for smaller people.
namely direct injection for the 1.6-litre four, and an optional,
first-in-segment, six-speed Dual Clutch Transmission. We drove As for the name, it was just something the engineers threw at it in
both that and the six-speed manual on all roads, and we have the early stages, and Hyundai just left it that way. Oddly, the “Velo”
to say that the manual does allow full extraction of the engine’s part of it is generally associated with bicycles, but we doubt the
138 horsepower. The DCT is fun to use, with the paddle shifters, militant cyclists in the big cities will take notice and let the Veloster
onto the bike lanes.
but the feeling is different, a little less vibrant.
There have been comments that the Veloster needs more power, Those into sport coupes should take notice, though, as the Veloster
especially at low revs, and one could agree (based on 0-100 covers most of the bases – value, emotional appeal, technology,
km/h times barely cracking 10 seconds) and wonder why the frugality, and sporty performance, if not quick acceleration.
engine isn’t a 1.8 or even 2.0, but in all subjective measures,
the 1.6 is a smooth and willing performer, with by far the most
power per litre in the class, and the recently announced Turbo
version should address any performance concerns. It does
SPECIFICATIONS
MSRP: . ................................................................................................ $18,999
Vehicle Layout: .................... Front-engine, front-wheel drive, 3-door hatchback
Engine: ........................................................................................ 1.6L DOHC I4
Transmission: . .........................................................6-spd manual or DCT auto
Power: . .............................................................................138 hp @ 6,300 rpm
Torque: . ......................................................................... 123 lb-ft @ 4,850 rpm
Brakes: ......................................................................... 4-wheel disc, ABS, EBD
Curb Weight: .......................................................................... 1,172 – 1,276 kg
Fuel Economy L/100 KM city/hwy:.......................................................... 7.2/4.9
FIRST DRIVE - SUBARU IMPREZA
sive powertrain, and improved
fuel economy, and I am certain
Subaru will attract a host of new
customers to the fold.
Truth in
Advertising
C
anadians love small cars, so it should come as no surprise that
the compact car segment represents a substantial portion of the
new car market. As a result, the offerings in this category are a hot
property for the manufacturers and as such, are reasonably priced,
well-equipped, and perfectly suited to meet the driving needs of the
majority of consumers.
Subaru enters the 2012 model year with an
all-new Impreza. This is the fourth generation
of the brand’s ultra-successful, bread-and-butter model which has always been a popular
choice with Canadian buyers. With this car,
Subaru hopes to expand appeal for the brand
and promote the fact that the company produces high-quality vehicles that are reliable,
comfortable and efficient. The biggest news
is that the new powertrain has been engineered to both maximize fuel efficiency and
preserve the car’s reputation as a car that is
fun to drive.
“More than you’d expect in a compact car.”
This is the tagline being used to market the
Impreza, and after having spent the better part
of a day behind the wheel of a couple of examples of this surefooted machine, I am happy
to report that for once, there seems to be some
truth in advertising. The new car features a
much more refined design, improved fit-andfinish, and an impressive level of standard
equipment across the board. Add to this crisp
handling, improved ergonomics, a respon20 At The Wheel RPM Feb / Mar 2012
The Impreza features new styling from bumper-to-bumper,
but it is most evident up front
where a hexagonal grille and
stylish new headlights sporting
a “hawk-eye” design (similar to
those on the current Legacy)
dominate the real estate. The
car now features a more angular body shape and it’s obvious that Subaru’s design team
sought to give the car its own
identity so there are fewer styling similarities to its traditional
WRX siblings. Having said that,
the Impreza’s new look is still
surprisingly muscular, as a wide
stance and prominent fender
flares hint at the car’s increased size.
Once I slipped behind the wheel, it was apparent that the car was
roomier than the previous iteration. I am a rather large individual, but
still managed to fit comfortably in both front seating positions. I was
not wanting for more leg, hip, head or shoulder room.
I also tried the rear compartment on for size. The longer wheelbase
made it possible for me to squeeze into the two outboard seating positions as long as the front seats weren’t set all the way back on their
slides. The centre position though, was not a valid option for my big
frame. Ingress and egress is much improved as both front and rear
side door openings have been made larger to better accommodate
North American buyers.
The fit-and-finish throughout the car was very refined and upmarket,
and the quality of the materials used is top-notch. I found the placement of vital switchgear and controls well thought out, and the threespoke tilt/telescoping steering wheel provided excellent feedback. The
FIRST DRIVE - SUBARU IMPREZA
During my short time with the Impreza I took the car to West Vancouver
and went exploring up Cypress Mountain. The car came alive in the
tight radius turns and handled the climb to the ski area without any
drama. The upper parking area was blanketed in snow so I took the
opportunity to play a little and put the all-weather capabilities of the
car to the test. The car retained traction despite my best efforts to
upset it in the snow, and it was only wearing all-season rubber!
One thing that has set Subaru apart from the other Japanese brands
over the years is the fact that all of the company’s models come
equipped with Subaru’s proven symmetrical all-wheel drive system.
For Canadian buyers willing to pay the premium (when compared to
similar sized offerings), this guarantees that their car will be a strong
performer year-round. The drawback with this system has always
been the fact that it adds weight and additional operating costs (due
instrumentation and gauges were readily visible as was the compact to servicing requirements and increased fuel consumption). With the
information display situated centre dash.
arrival of the 2012 model, Subaru has levelled the playing field to such
an extent that the car is as fuel efficient as most of its most popular
Visibility was exceptional as the new cabin-forward design utilizes front-wheel drive competitors while still offering all-wheel drive! Now
thin pillars, an elevated seating position, and taller windows to give that is impressive!
the passenger compartment an airy feel. This leads to improved
sightlines which promote situational awareness and make your time The team behind the Impreza knew that this vehicle had to be excepbehind the wheel much less stressful.
tional in order to gain market share in a very crowded marketplace.
Subaru needs to showcase the type of quality product that the
As before, there are two body styles available. A traditional, four-door Japanese company is capable of producing. Its success now falls on
sedan, or a five-door offering for those buyers looking to maximize the shoulders of the marketing personnel who have to work hard to
cargo space. The list of standard equipment is lengthy and stacked attract new buyers to the showroom and get people behind the wheel
in favour of the consumer, even if you select a base model. There of this world-class vehicle. Once this happens, the Impreza will sell
are four trim levels - 2.0i, Touring, Sport and Limited - to choose from itself. It is that good. The vehicle feels roomier and more luxurious
so it is easy to find the perfect model for your needs, and with the than many of its competitors, is easy on fuel, but best of all, it offers
low entry price of $19,995 you get behind the wheel of the most fuel the company’s superb all-wheel drive system.
efficient all-wheel drive car sold in North America.
Buyers of the Impreza also benefit from the knowledge that the model
Under the hood you will find an all-new, 2.0-litre horizontally-opposed has held the highest predicted residual resale value in the compact
four-cylinder engine that generates 148 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of car segment for the past three model years, as well as the fact that
torque. This compact engine replaces the outgoing car’s venerable it has demonstrated top results when it comes to passenger safety.
2.5-litre four-cylinder, and when partnered to the optional Lineartronic In short, if you happen to be shopping for a compact car, you would
continuously variable transmission (CVT), is said to deliver a vast be making a huge mistake if you overlook this car.
improvement in fuel economy over the 2011 model.
I love a nice manual transmission, but the majority of Impreza buyers
will probably purchase the Lineartronic. This is the second-generation of this transmission, so it has been reworked with improved gear
ratios to better suit the torque characteristics of the new engine, and
it is said to be ten percent more efficient than its forbear. Should you
wish to make your own gear selections, you can shift the lever manually, or utilize the shift paddles mounted to the steering wheel to fully
evaluate the car’s handling and performance potential.
SPECIFICATIONS
Base price range (MSRP):...................................................... $19,995 - $28,095
Type:.................................................. 5-passenger, 4- or 5-door, compact sedan
Engine:..................................... 2.0L, horizontally-opposed, four-cylinder engine
Horsepower: . .......................................................................... 148 @ 6,200 rpm
Torque: . ........................................................................... 145 lb-ft @ 4,200 rpm
Transmission:................................ 5-speed manual or optional Lineartronic CVT
Brakes (front/rear):................................................................ Disc/disc with ABS
Cargo capacity (L):........ 4-door: 340 / 5-door: 648 (1,485 with seats folded flat)
Fuel Economy (L/100km):........ Manual - City: 8.3 (34 mpg), Hwy: 5.9 (48 mpg)
CVT - City: 7.5 (38 mpg), Hwy: 5.5 (51 mpg)
Around town, the new CVT was quick to react to the stresses of
stop-and-go driving. Throttle response was instantaneous and acceleration was commendable given the car’s relatively low power
rating. A unique feature of this new CVT is a novel “second-gear”
start function, which will go a long way to help avoid wheelspin when
the vehicle is operating in slippery conditions. This will no doubt be
a feature relished by many Canadian drivers.
The one thing lacking from many of today’s small cars is an invigorating driving experience. Sure, they are great for getting you from point
A to point B every day, but when it comes to putting the occasional
smile on your face, it just isn’t in the cards. Subarus have always
been fun to drive, and with this all-new platform, the engineers have
worked hard to ensure that drivers will enjoy getting behind the wheel
of the Impreza.
The car is lighter than the outgoing model, and now incorporates a
stiffer chassis and an improved suspension system. Ride quality was
more refined than I expected, and the suspension does an excellent
job of keeping the car planted to the pavement when cornering.
TIRE CZAR
The Importance of Good Tires
case can be made for both.
It’s the same with tires.
By Morton LJ Koch
I
f you are anything like me, you are skimming this article. Not
because you aren’t really interested, but because you have
no time. Constantly rushing from place to place and wondering
how it will all get done. I spend too much of my day in my vehicle
going from A to B to C and then back to A. My life is a cliché; I
figure I spend so much time in the vehicle, I may as well drive
something I like. So, I choose some monstrous SUV. Not politically correct, but it has variable displacement and uses E85. It’s
environmentally friendly, right? Apparently the E85 is better for
the environment, better if you can find someone who sells it.
Every tire retailer sells
the good, better and best.
What you need to decide
is how much you want to
spend, how long the tires
need to last and what you
want from the tires. The
first two questions are easily answered. It is the third
that causes the difficulty.
What do you want from the
tires? Is wet or dry performance paramount? Do you
want a smoother ride or do
you like to take the freeway off ramp like you are
a Montoya? Answer these
questions and you will
have a group of tires that
meet your criteria. More
and more are choosing to
do their research online.
I am a huge proponent of
this, but there are some
caveats.
Be prepared for information overload. Internet research will include reading tire reviews. We have all done this on Trip Advisor
when trying to decide on a hotel or resort for our holidays; tires
are no different. After a while, you get to pulling your hair out.
Like the holiday reviews; with every tire there are those that rave
and those that demonize the very same tire. My recommendation
here is to discount the overly good and poor reviews. Try and
read those reviews from people who own similar vehicles and
drive in similar conditions as yours.
Now that you have a core list of tires that fit your buying criteria,
you need to find a place to purchase them. If you are comfortable
purchasing Online, you can buy the tires from the very stores on
which you did your research. Otherwise, you are visiting your local tire store. If you like competitive prices and personal service
isn’t too important, you might choose to visit a Big Box retailer.
If you like the more personal touch, then you would go to your
local tire store or mechanic. The best place to deal is where you
feel comfortable and that sells the products you want. The tires
you want may dictate where you buy, or where you feel most
comfortable buying might dictate what you buy. Either way, get
a good set of tires.
According to the news media, I live in one of the most civilized
countries. I guess this means rushing around like a lunatic in a
monolithic SUV, talking on my cell phone and drinking coffee
because I have no time to do it anywhere else. All this rushing
around means less attention paid to the road and less time to
react. I am not going to write on about how dangerous it is to use
a cell phone while driving. This is about how it is more important
than ever to have good tires! With all of the distraction, it means
there is often a slower reaction time. A difference in stopping distance of ten feet could mean the difference between rear ending
the person in front of you and making it home in time for dinner.
Of course, I am biased because I sell tires. However, if you think For those of you driving behind me; you may be a little distracted,
but I trust you have good tires and will stop before rear ending
the scenario through, it makes sense more often than not.
me. For those of you in front of me, know that I have good tires
Now that I have you buying into how important a good set of tires and will do you the same turn. In the end it is important to make
is, you ask “What tires are the best? I want to have the safest! a purchase you are comfortable with and that will keep you and
What do you recommend?” This is the confusing part. If you are your family safe on what seems to be the endless commute.
like many of those consumers we talk to daily, you have been to
several tire stores and they all give different answers. Different Morton “Tire Czar” Koch is president of a major Canadian tire
answers? How can there be more than one that is the best? It is wholesale operation. Morton has worked in the tire industry for the
a bit of the Coke-Pepsi scenario. Depending who you ask, a good past 20 years. He can be reached at [email protected]
Dayco Canada Corp
7810 Keele Street, Unit C, Concord, ON L4K 0B7
4ELs4OLL&REE
&AXsWWWDAYCOCA
ROAD TEST - TOYOTA PRIUS V
A Prius I Can
Understand
However, don’t think of this as just a slightly larger Prius, as Toyota
has loaded the V with all sorts of new gadgets to save weight and fuel,
and make for a smoother and more comfortable ride. The V comes
with a massive moon roof that is made of polycarbonate, which is
40 percent lighter than glass and provides 84 percent greater heat
insulation. Speaking of heat, the V also features an exhaust heating
system which uses the heat from the exhaust to warm engine coolant faster, providing warm-up in three minutes, in turn allowing for
earlier engine shut off when driving. Another smart feature is Toyota’s
Pitch and Bounce Control System that improves comfort and stability.
A dedicated hybrid with a
The system is implemented through the hybrid drivetrain system and
little less sacrifice
subtly alters the engine’s torque to smooth out the ride over rough
and bumpy roads. Its a whole bunch of technology making up for
what is essentially the suspension’s job, but it does work and is quite
Review by Budd Stanley,
ingenious. As for the ride, it’s pretty much just like a regular Prius
photos courtesy of Toyota Canada
- slow and a bit wobbly, although the increased wheelbase does give
he dedicated hybrid vehicle has created a unique class of cus- the V a slightly more surefooted feel on the road.
tomer. People who opt for a hybrid are quite happy to make several
large sacrifices in the name of burning the absolute minimal amount What is unusual is that Toyota is selling the V for $27,200, $400
of hydrocarbons possible. I have had more than a couple of people less than the hatch. Which is odd, because you are getting so much
ask me about the benefits of these vehicles as a possible purchase. more car for less. Regardless, the V still has the rather annoying
However, when they find out about the sacrifices in power, handling, centre-mounted gauge cluster that makes for a rather desolate
space and several other smaller characteristics, they often shy away looking dash.
from what could have been a good idea. Now, though, Toyota has
given these potential customers a couple more good reasons to think There is no doubt, the Prius V will change the way many people
think about hybrid vehicles. Like the Honda CR-Z making hybrids
again about Prius.
fun, the Prius V will make them much more practical. It is a car that
The first thing people will notice about the new Prius V is its shape. It will most definitely bring many more non-hybrid vehicle buyers over
looks like a Prius, but there’s something amiss. That would be a new to the eco-side, and with another Prius variant, Prius C, planned for
body that may not be quite as aerodynamically efficient as the original, release at the end of the year, the force is only growing.
however it is extremely useful. It is a case of function out-performing
its fashion, capable of gobbling up great amounts of cargo in the rear, As for the V, I admit I am a hybrid hater only because I love the crackle
more than a Ford Escape, Toyota notes, and an 8-foot kayak will fit of strained internal combustion and crashing through the mechanical
inside. And yes it can, if only one person plans to go kayaking. Minus gears, but I appreciate what Toyota has done with the V; it’s a dedithe kayak, the V will comfortably seat five adults with raised rear seats cated hybrid that is real-world practical. The hybrid concept is finally
starting to make sense to the rest of us, those who aren’t willing to
offering great visibility.
sacrifice everything in the name of saving a bit of fuel.
The V gets its motivation from the same 1.8L Atkinson Cycle engine
offered in the regular Prius, combining to produce 134 horsepower SPECIFICATIONS
with the 60 kW electric motor and 27 kW battery. Four different driv- MSRP: . ..................................................................................................$27,200
ing modes - Power, Normal, Eco and EV - are offered, manipulating Price as tested: . .....................................................................................$36,875
engine response in the predictable and listed manner. For the typical Layout: ...................................................................................Front Engine, FWD
Prius customer, the Eco mode will provide an acceptable amount of Engine: ................................................. 1.8L 4-cylinder with electric hybrid drive
Power: . ....................................................................................................134 hp
acceleration, while providing the V’s optimal fuel savings mode, other Transmission: . ............................................................................................eCVT
than the strictly electric-only EV mode, which will work best in parking Curb weight: . ........................................................................................ 1,485 kg
Fuel Efficiency (city, hwy, com.): .............4.3L/100km, 4.8L/100km, 4.6L/100km
lots and gridlocked traffic.
T
LOS ANGELES INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW
L.A. Show A Good Barometer
The Los Angeles International Auto Show in November is the first major show of the season in the U.S., and as such, has become one of
the more important ones, as manufacturers have had the previous six
months in which to accumulate new concept and production models for
their first public display. The show is a good barometer of the general state of the auto industry as a
whole, the 2011 version having more energy than even two years previously, when the economy was
really in the tank. With Los Angeles being the centre of both the environmental and performance communities, its show offers a great cross section of just what is happening in the industry.
The following are a few photos of the highlights.
Audi e-tron Spyder
The latest e-tron made its North American
debut in L.A. With a V6 turbodiesel driving
the rear wheels, and an electric motor for
each front wheel, this might show the direction for future performance cars from Audi.
BMW i8
Another application of engine driving the rear
wheels and electric motors up front, the i8
is said to go 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds
and 250 km/h, and return nearly 100 mpg.
Production has been confirmed, and you can
buy one within about a year, assuming it is
sold in Canada.
Cadillac XTS
The new Cadillac XTS mainstream luxury
sedan replaces both the DTS and STS
models. GM describes it as a large, accommodating car that can carry four people in
extreme comfort. It has few performance
pretensions, as its front-wheel-drive (AWD
optional) architecture might imply.
Chevrolet Camaro ZL1
GM’s entry in the latest muscle car horsepower war is the Camaro
ZL1, shown at L.A. in convertible form. With 580 hp from its 6.2L supercharged V8 engine, this is by far the most powerful Camaro ever.
New technologies like electric power steering, Magnetic Ride Control
and advanced aerodynamics ensure total performance.
Ford Shelby GT500
Ford one-upped Chevy at L.A., at least in horsepower rating, with
the 650-hp 200-mph Shelby GT500. The 5.8L V8 has new supercharger with much more boost than before, and a larger intercooler.
This should be the hands-down winner in the horsepower-per-dollar
Chevrolet Spark
Chevy’s smallest car ever aims at young urbanites, promising low war this year.
price and fuel consumption, handy size, and edgy style. It has a 1.2L
four. Made by Daewoo in South Korea, an EV version is expected Jaguar C-X16
Still officially a concept, there can be little doubt that Jaguar will proin a year or so.
duce this very sensual and lithe sports car. As is becoming expected
with the latest performance cars, the C-X16 has an electric motor
Fiat 500 Abarth
The inevitable performance version of the Fiat 500 has arrived, called onboard as part of the transmission, backing up the 3.0L supercharged
the Abarth just like the old one was. With a turbo hung on the 1.4L V6, making this a hybrid car we can all dream about.
four, and 160 hp, the suspension, brakes and steering have been
upgraded. Best of all, the signature Abarth scorpion logos are on
the car, too.
Mercedes-Benz SLK55 AMG
The inevitable AMG V8 version of the new Mercedes SLK roadster
made an appearance in L.A. With 422 hp from its naturally-aspirated
5.5L V8, 0-100 km/h in about 4.6 seconds, and an estimated 8.2
litres per 100 km highway, this SLK combines fun, performance and
reasonable economy.
Kia GT
Maybe the most interesting concept, from a marketing point of view,
was the Kia GT. This turbo V6, rear-drive, four-door coupe would
move the brand waaay up-market into the premium luxury segment,
no doubt at a lower price. Don’t be surprised if it happens, as sister
Hyundai is also challenging the luxury icons.
Porsche 911
What can you say about another new 911? The seventh generation
is almost completely new, but still unmistakably a 911. With a sevenspeed manual, wider track, longer wheelbase, more power and fuel
economy from smaller engines, and much nicer interior, the new 911
will be a worthy version to celebrate the model’s 50th anniversary
next year.
Land Rover DC100
Land Rover is taking on the big task of creating a new Defender 90,
while keeping the design and toughness that the old one has come
to be known for. The DC100 is the first concept, showing some of
what might be produced in a few years. We say that it looks pretty
much ready right now.
Mastretta MXT
In the “not likely to see Canadian roads” department, the Mastretta
from Mexico is similar to a Lotus Elise – light and mid-engined.
There was a rolling chassis and one finished car on view, and we Subaru BRZ
hope that the company can produce them for sale, even if we may Developed in conjunction with Toyota, which will sell it as a Scion,
not see any.
the Subaru BRZ sports coupe uses an all-new 200-hp direct-injection
2.0L version of the flat four, but driving the rear wheels only. Subaru
is proud of the very direct steering and light weight of the BRZ, which
should make for sparkling performance.
?-¼:-5)316/
),1..-:-6+-
Shad’s Chairman John Vanstone and board member Ray Osika accepting
the first Annual Fred Shaddick Community Service Award.
Your continued support of SHAD’s and the almost $4M in donations has
had a profound impact on MDC. So much so that MDC has recognized our
efforts by creating the Annual Fred Shaddick Community Service Award.
Awarded annually, the Fred Shaddick Community Service Award will recognize outstanding contribution in the community.
Won’t you consider joining us in pushing
SHAD’s over the $4M mark this year ?
Since 1954, Muscular Dystrophy Canada has been committed to improving the quality of life, mainly through donations, for the
tens of thousands of Canadians with neuromuscular disorders and leading research for the discovery of therapies and cures.
Shad’s R&R has continually supported these efforts since 1973 by donating over $3.8M to Muscular Dystrophy Canada. Now
entering its’ 39th year, the automotive aftermarket continues to fulfill founder Fred Shaddick’s original mission of “For the Kids”.
Mark your calendars for the 39th Annual Shad’s R&R Golf Tournament
on June 14th with all proceeds to Muscular Dystrophy Canada.
Station Creek Golf & Country Club – Stouffville, ON
If you would like to become a sponsor or make a donation to SHAD’s R&R
“For the Kids”, please contact one of our board members directly.
Shad’s Board of Directors:
John Vanstone, Chairman
Luc Champagne
Ken Coulter
Mike Fazackerley
Steve Gushie
Mike Holland
Ray Osika
Brad Shaddick
Scott Stone
Cameron Young
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
This ad space generously donated by Rousseau Automotive Communication.
RPM TEST FLEET
FORD EXPLORER 4WD
Price Range: $32,999 - $44,199
As Tested: $38 899 (XLT model)
Available Trims: 3
Engine: 3.5L V6 DOHC 24-Valve
Trans: 6-speed auto
Power: 290 hp
Torque: 255 lb-ft
Curb Weight: 2,146 kg/4,721 lb
Fuel Economy: (L/100km–City/Hwy) 12.5/8.8
New for 2012: All new design, Turbocharged 2.0-liter
EcoBoost four-cylinder engine.
Segment Competitors: Chevrolet Traverse, GMC Acadia, Honda Pilot, Mazda CX-9 Nissan Pathfinder, Toyota 4Runner, Toyota Highlander
The Skinny: Following along with Ford’s philosophy that efficiency is now job one, the Explorer was engineered
from the outset with this in mind. The turbocharged direct-injected 2.0-liter EcoBoost I-4 the Explorer sets a new
standard for fuel economy in the full-size SUV segment. For those heading off-road, the choice may be the Ti-VCT
3.5-liter V-6, which also enjoys class-leading fuel efficiency. But the real story in our eyes is its styling and refinement both inside and out.
Pros: Looks, fuel efficiency, ride, comfort.
Cons: Not really an off-roader, technical systems temperamental.
The Verdict: Great combination of styling and efficiency.
TOYOTA CAMRY
Price Range: $23,700 - $33,700
As Tested: $33,700 (XLE V6 mo
Available Trims: 5
Engine: 3.5L V6 DOHC 24-Valve
Trans: 6-speed auto
Power: 268 hp
Torque: 248 lb-ft
Fuel Economy: (L/100km – City/
New for 2012: Improved fuel ec
exterior and interior.
Segment Competitors: Chevr
Fusion, Honda Accord, Hyunda
Altima
The Skinny: Toyota’s midsize se
improved fuel efficiency. It also ga
rear seats, Bluetooth and USB/iP
tion and Toyota’s Entune multimed
and optional ultra-suede trimmed
Pros: Excellent acceleration, inte
Cons: Pedestrian handling, still n
The Verdict: Not hard to unders
North America.
MAZDA3 SPORT
Price Range: $16,595 - $24,695
As Tested: $23,590 (GS SKYACTIV model)
Available Trims: 4
Engine: 2.0L L4 DOHC 16-Valve
Trans: 6-speed auto
Power: 155 hp
Torque: 148 lb-ft
Fuel Economy: (L/100km – City/Highway) 7.1/5.0
New for 2012: Refreshed design, SKYACTIV 2.0-liter
engine and 6-speed transmission.
Segment Competitors: Ford Focus, Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra, Subaru Impreza, Toyota Matrix
The Skinny: The refreshed Mazda3 received an all-new SKYACTIV 2.0-liter 155-horsepower gasoline
The Skinny: The 1-Series coupe
engine and the all-new SKYACTIV 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. The exterior design
sports a new front fascia that has arrived with mixed reviews; other new features include interior features for additional functionality and a reinforced body for greater rigidity and safety.
Pros: Fuel economy, acceleration and handling.
Cons: Tight interior space.
The Verdict: The 3 is still one of the top commuter vehicles.
wind resistance over the front wh
light assemblies. There is also a 1
chassis fitted into a modified 1-Se
an extra 37 lb-ft and a 0-to-60 mp
Pros: Excellent power, incredible
Cons: Tight interior space.
The Verdict: Perfect for those w
changed.
AUDI TT COUPE
INFINITI G37 COUP
SLK-class, Porsche Cayman
The Skinny: Audi’s sporty 2-door, 4-passenger Coupe and Roadster, named for the Tourist Trophy,
a European motorsports event that was first held in 1905. Both the TT Coupe and the TT Roadster
were redesigned for the first time for 2008 and this year they have added the limited edition, more
powerful 2.5-liter 360-horsepower inline-5 engine TT RS coupe to their line-up. The TT RS is mated
to a 6-speed manual transmission that sees no automatic available.
Pros: Great acceleration, traction and handling.
Cons: Interior noisy and plain.
The Verdict: Remains a thrill to drive.
coupe, Cadillac CTS coupe, Lexus
C-class coupe.
The Skinny: It is hard to believe t
sport coupe has remained virtua
IPL Coupe (Infiniti Performance L
of performance for Infiniti models
and badging, high-flow exhaust, r
wheels and tires and much more.
Pros: Sweet looking, great stance
Cons: Lacking real thrust.
The Verdict: The IPL is hard to o
Price Range: $48,400 - $49,900
As Tested: $48,400 (2.0 TFSi quattro model)
Available Trims: 2
Engine: 2.0L L4 Turbo DOHC 16-Valve
Trans: 6-speed auto
Power: 211 hp
Torque: 258 lb-ft
New for 2012: All-wheel-drive TT RS coupe.
Segment Competitors: BMW 1, Mercedes Benz
Price Range: $46,700 - $57,200
As Tested: $57,200 (IPL model)
Available Trims: 4
Engine: 3.7L DOHC V6 24-valve
Trans: 6-speed man
Power: 348 hp
Torque: 276 lb-ft
Fuel Economy: (L/100km – City/H
New for 2012: No significant cha
Segment Competitors: Acura
NEW TECH
CUE is GM’s latest driver
interface
0
odel)
e
/Highway) 9.7/6.4
conomy, redesigned
rolet Malibu, Ford
ai Sonata, Nissan
dan has been redesigned for 2012 with more aggressive styling and
ained a roomier cabin that includes 10 standard airbags, split-folding
Pod port. The Camry also received a new sound systems with navigadia. The Camry SE features a sport-tuned suspension, paddle shifters
d sport seats.
erior space and fuel efficiency.
not the prettiest kid in the class.
stand why it continues to be one the country’s best selling cars in
BMW 1M COUPE
Price Range: $36,000 - $43,200
As Tested: $36,000 (128i model)
Available Trims: 2
Engine: 3.0L DOHC I-6 24-Valve
Trans: 6-speed man
Power: 335 hp
Torque: 332 lb-ft
Curb Weight: 1,525kg/3,355 lb
New for 2012: Front facia, new headlight/taillight
assemblies.
Segment Competitors: Acura TSX, Audi TT coupe, Buick
Regal Turbo, Mini Cooper S Volkswagen Golf R 3-door.
e and convertible received an updated front fascia design to reduce
heels. The 1-Series models also receive updated headlight and tail1-Series Coupe added to the M performance line-up that sees the M3
eries body that sports a 335-horspower inline-6 engine that provides
ph time of 4.6 seconds.
handling, great design and look.
who want a BMW but can’t afford a 3 series. You won’t feel short-
PE
Highway) 11.7/7.8
anges.
TL, BMW 3 series
s IS, Mercedes Benz
that the G Coupe has been around for almost 10 years. The-luxury
ally unchanged since the all-new G37 coupe arrived in 2008. The
Line) was introduced in 2011 which is designed to add a new level
s. The IPL upgrades include enhanced interior and exterior styling
recalibrated ECU (adding 18 hp), 6-speed manual trans, upgraded
.
e and standard options.
overlook when shopping for a car in this class.
Story by
Gerry Frechette
T
he pace of development of
infotainment systems continues to
accelerate, in the
face of critical user
feedback and regulations seeking to
mimimize distraction
to the driver. The
latest system from GM is called CUE, or Cadillac User Experience,
debuting in the new Cadillac XTS luxury sedan shown recently at the
Los Angeles Auto Show.
CUE will pair entertainment and information data from up to 10 Bluetooth-enabled mobile devices, USBs, SD cards and MP3 players
with a vehicle infotainment system that reduces complexity through
customized information, natural voice commands and fewer buttons
and larger icons.
CUE allows consumers to securely store a smart phone or MP3 player
while channeling the information on those devices, along with navigation tools, weather maps with Doppler radar, AM/FM and XM radio, and
instant messages and emails, through a central portal, keeping hands on
the wheel and eyes on the road. CUE is designed to be unique for each
consumer, from the “simple user” to the fully connected “super user.”
CUE’s LCD screen features the driver’s five most frequently used functions stored along the top of the screen. Along the bottom of the screen,
users can select up to 60 favourites from music to points of interest,
addresses, maps for weather or directions, phone numbers or system
commands, such as “tag song.”
CUE’s Natural Speech Recognition lets consumers speak logically with
fewer specific commands to recall stored media or input navigation
destinations. CUE’s text-to-speech feature will also allow consumers
to receive text messages by system voice and to send recorded text
messages in return.
GREATEST ROADS #16
Jungle Ambush
Australia’s magnificent Old Pacific
Highway a surprise
Story and photos by Budd Stanley
W
e’re back overseas in search of great driving roads of the
world, and little did I know what was waiting for me just as I
arrived in Australia. In a late night traveling out of Sydney, I headed
across the Harbour Bridge, north along the east coast of Australia.
My steed for this journey would not be some high-strung Subaru,
VW, Porsche or BMW, but a 4WD Camper truck that would allow
me to go where I pleased and provide all the comforts of a camper,
as my travels would take me far off the beaten track.
Late in the darkness, I had hoped to simply park next to a beach
somewhere and flop into the bed in the back of the Britz Camper,
but Highway 1 heading up the coast, only just inland, offers little in
the way of scenic stops or vistas, and a truck stop would be where
I lay my weary head. With the glimpses of daylight, I was awoken
by an unfamiliar sound, a light hissing sound that I thought might
have been coming from a leaking propane bottle. However, it was
not gas that was making the sound, but the sub-tropical jungle
that stood at the foot of the parking lot, coming alive with millions
of insects. Within minutes, the sound was too great to bear any
longer and I was packed up and back out on the road before the
sun had risen.
However, I did not want to keep traveling up the freeway on my
way to Brisbane, and to my luck, a sign pointing to exit off onto
“Old Pacific Highway” sounded like an ideal plan. Little did I know
what was coming would be as spectacular yet frustrating as it
About The Route
Best time to Go: Weekdays from October
to April
Total Distance: 32 km
Route: Starting point is Moony Moony, just off the
#1 Highway in Australia. This highly scenic and
windy route takes the long way through the hills of
the coastal mountains and on to Kariong.
Places To Stop: Great scenic viewpoints found
at Mirror Lakes, Homer Tunnel, Hollyford and The
Chasm.
Road Type: Smooth narrow tarmac road.
Warnings: Not a highly traveled road but nearly
every corner is blind, and watch for Australia’s wild
motorcyclists making big cuts.
Any road with a sign teaching
racing lines is a good start to
the day.
GREATEST ROADS #16
With the road cut into the rock,
this lush rainforest canopy hides
the glorious road from above.
was, but the sign at the entrance to the highway
was a poignant bit of foreshadowing.
It didn’t take long after the ominous sign that I
was inundated with a series of blind bends cut
into bedrock, with a lush green rainforest canopy
overhead. Very narrow, fresh tarmac with bright
green surrounding reminded me a lot of many of
the roads I had driven in New Zealand, but this
was different. Instead of a fern-filled forest floor,
the trees seemed to grow straight out of bedrock,
making for a very unique experience. Matched with
a humid fog that hung in the canopy, it was almost
for the better that I wasn’t rocketing through the
scene with my hair on fire at the wheel of a sports
car, as the cruise was extremely stress relieving
and rewarding. Mind you, an onslaught of challenging corners that work their way through the
coastal mountains did have me cursing the big
Toyota Land Cruiser Troopy, but I did get to enjoy
the senses of this truly impressive road, with the
odd clatter of cutlery and supplies rustling around
in the back.
The coastal mountains are not the most rugged
that I’ve ever seen, however they are a tightlypacked series of hills, peaks and valleys that reach
up Australia’s east coast. The road wheels and
pitches up and over large hills and back down into
deep valleys packed full of misted rainforest, each
corner blind and unsuspecting. However, while
the road is rather unpredictable and blind, I soon
found a rhythm that had me jaunting along merrily,
if still within the speed limit. Goes to show just how
tight and twisty the road is if trying to hold 70 km/h
is difficult; with something sportier, I could have
some real fun, though. Only a few villages can be
found along the route, but all too soon, it spat me
out into the several large coastal National Parks
that line the Pacific. I had finally found my beach,
set in an epic coastal scene, but it was the getting
there that was the most enduring memory that I
will likely take away from this day.
The Milford road had just the
right amount of hairpins.
The constant flow of blind corners
requires a driver to plan for the unexpected; play this one safe.
THE TRUCK GUY
Remote Starters
By Ian Harwood
C
an you imagine how nice it would be to wake up on a cold,
snowy morning and reach over to your vehicle’s remote, push
a button and have it start up? Finish your breakfast and climb into
a warm vehicle. Remote starters give you this ability, but there
are a few things to look for when shopping for these systems.
Select a system that will give you visual confirmation that the
remote start is engaged. This can be achieved by flashing the
headlights or parking lights. The system should include a pin
switch on the hood of the vehicle. The switch will sense when
the hood is open and prevent the remote start from starting the
vehicle. This protects you or a mechanic who may be working
on the truck. The remote start should incorporate the emergency
brake so that the remote start system cuts off when the brake
is tapped.
Choose a system that can monitor the transmission to assure
that it is in park when the remote start system is engaged. If the
transmission is out of park, this monitoring feature will prevent
The system should include a temperature sensor or an oil-presthe system from starting the vehicle.
sure circuit to sense whether the engine is overheating. It should
Ask for a relay to be added to the starter of the car, so that the be able to shut off the engine if it is too hot.
starter will not grind if you engage it while the engine is already
on. Remember, you will have to turn the ignition switch on with Look for a unit that allows you to program what button or buttons
the key when you enter the car after you have remotely started you use to engage the remote start. If you have children and they
it. The anti-grind feature protects the vehicle’s starter from dam- like to play with your remote transmitter, this feature can prevent
age if you accidentally engage the starter while turning on the them from accidentally starting the vehicle. The installer can simply program the remote so that two buttons need to be pressed
ignition switch
THE TRUCK GUY
simultaneously to engage the remote start.
Choose a system that allows you to stop
the remote start via the transmitter.
Another feature is the ability to turn the
engine on if the outside temperature drops
below a certain level if you live in a very,
very cold climate.
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The system should have at least a range
of 400 feet, and have the ability to bypass
the factory (OEM) immobilizer systems if
your vehicle is equipped with one. The
OEM system requires a key with a microchip imbedded in it to start the vehicle.
Some companies have created ways to
bypass this when engaging their remote
start product.
If you have teenagers operating your vehicle, there is a new product out called Drone
mobile. This system not only lets you start
your vehicle from anywhere you have internet access, but also gives you the ability
to track the vehicle movement and advise
you if the vehicle is traveling at a high rate
of speed, all from your smart phone. My
daughter Samantha says “who would do
that to that to their own kids, Dad?” I replied
“I don’t know,” as I readied my phone to find
out where she was going.
Read the owner’s manual to see what features are supposed to be on the system,
and then test everything to be certain it is
connected and works properly.
ADDING STYLE
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There is quite a variety of systems out
there that range in price from $150 to $600,
depending on your requirements.
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Aired Out
Stang
By Jeremy Allan Glover
T
he Ford Mustang Cobra is a mean machine when first out of the box with its supercharged engine… and like any Mustang, there are a ton of aftermarket parts available to make them even crazier. When the owner of this machine (Phil)
made plans to modify his Cobra convertible, he decided to go a slightly different route. He wanted to go for more of a
“stanced” style, really low on some killer wheels.
As with all Mustangs, a good place to start modifying is with the engine, since there is a huge bin of aftermarket parts for
these ponies. Since the Cobra already comes with a good engine set-up, not all that much is needed to really make this
car scream. A 2.76-inch BilletFlow blower and 100mm idler pulley were mounted to increase the amount of boost the stock
supercharger was putting out. To help with the air flow, a JTL Carbon cold air intake was fitted for the air coming into the car.
On the other end, a Bassani stainless steel catted x-pipe along with a Steeda stainless catback were installed to improve the
exhaust flow and to give this machine a very distinctive and mean sound. With a few other go-fast goodies and a customtuned SCT Xcalibrator2, this Cobra was putting down around 480 hp.
36 Speed & Sound RPM Feb / Mar 2012
MAKE ThE CONNECTION!
$POOFDUZPVSJ1PEPS
J1IPOFEJSFDUMZUPZPVS
GBDUPSZPSBGUFSNBSLFU
DBSBVEJPTZTUFN
Play your iPod or iPhoneUISPVHIZPVSGBDUPSZPSBGUFSNBSLFU
'.DBSTUFSFPTZTUFNXJUIB(FFL4RVBEBVEJPJOUFHSBUJPOTZTUFN
:PVEPOUIBWFUPDMVUUFSVQZPVSDBSTJOUFSJPSXJUINVMUJQMFQPXFSBOE
BVEJPDBCMFToUIF(FFL4RVBE(4$BOE(4$"TZTUFNTQSPWJEF
BDMFBSJOUFSGFSFODFGSFFBVEJPDPOOFDUJPOXJUIBDMFBOGBDUPSZMPPL
5IFZBMTPMFUZPVcharge your iPod or iPhoneXIJMFDPOOFDUFE
UISPVHIUIFEPDLDPOOFDUPS
ExCluSivEly
AvAilAblE in
CAnAdA AT:
The GSC70 and GSC70A are compatible with all iPod and iPhone models.
FULL FUNCTIONALITY
READY TO GO
VIDEO OUTPUT
Retains display and iPod
click-wheel functions.
Keeps iPod charged.
Connects to external
video displays.
%FTJHOFECZJ4JNQMF¥t%JTUSJCVUFECZ(FOUFD*OUFSOBUJPOBMPOFPGCanada’s 50 Best Managed CompaniestXXXHFOUFDJOUMDPN
With the engine department taken care of, it was now time
to get this ‘stang the stance Phil was looking for. To start
with, some polished CCW Classic wheels were mounted to
the car. He chose some very beefy sizes to fit his Cobra, 18x
9.5 in the front and massive 18 x 11s in the rear, running on
sticky Nitto tires. The wheels are of a very high quality, much
needed for the pot hole-ridden roads around Quebec.
With new wheels now on, it set the stage to find a suspension
set-up to complete the Cobra’s perfect stance. What makes
this car so different from most others is the suspension that
was chosen. Instead of going with a full coilover suspension
kit or even just lowering springs, the choice for this project
was a complete air bag suspension set-up. An Accuair e-level
air suspension kit with two compressors and a five gallon
tank were installed. Air ride suspension is very popular these
days, since it lets you adjust how high or low you want your
car to be and lets you lift it up completely when steep entrances or speed bumps come up. Even though it’s popular,
fitting a kit like this on a Mustang Cobra was almost taboo. It
certainly had a lot of the Mustang purists going crazy. Good!
The Mustang is a very popular car among enthusiasts and
it’s nice to see one that is modified in a slightly different way.
Mustang purists might not think a Cobra should be on air
suspension since it is not known to be very sporty, but it’s
interesting to note that with the new suspension on it, this
Cobra is actually faster on the quarter mile then it was on the
stock suspension. It just ‘shows to go ya’ that it is possible to
have style, look …and performance!
Phil would like to thank Michel Patry for all the hard work on
the install.
Meet Mark
HAGERTY SALES TEAM
There’s a huge difference between your daily driver
and your classic. Mark gets that. So does everyone else
at Hagerty. Drive to lots of car shows? That’s OK, we’re
flexible on usage. Plus, we’re experts on value, so you
won’t have to pay for appraisals. And since we specialize
in protecting collector cars, we offer better coverage at a
lower price than the big guys.
A policy that fits your ride. Another reason why you and
your classic belong with Hagerty.
The Classic Car Insurance Specialists | 877-922-3391 | WWW.HAGERTY.CA
Specifications
Powertrain
2.76” BilletFlow blower pulley and 100mm idler.
SCT XCalibrator2 with custom tune
JLT Carbon Fibre CAI
Stock TB and plenum ported by Stiegemeier
Bassani stainless steel catted X-pipe
Steeda stainless steel catback
MGW short shifter
LFP Dual Pass Heat Exchanger
LFP Supertank intercooler reservoir
Innovate LC-1 wideband O2 sensor
Exterior
Bullitt Mustang side scoops
Black vinyl bumper letter inserts
Cobra grille emblem
Paint-matched CDC lightbar
Wheels & Tires
CCW Classic 18”11 rear with 295/35R18 Nitto INVO
CCW Classic 18” 9.5 front with 275/35R18 Nitto INVO (after
the photoshoot)
Interior
Innovate G3 Air/Fuel ratio gauge
GG&G “F***in’ Fast” shift knob
Suspension
Maximum Motorsports front strut tower brace
Kenny Brown Performance Extreme Matrix Subframe System
Accuair e-level air suspension kit with touchpad
5-gallon tank
Dual chromed Viair 400C compressors
RideTech CoolRide bags and plates
ICE
Stock Mach 460
CES REPORT
CES 2012
Report
Story and Photos by Norm Ross
I
am calling CES 2012 (the Consumer Electronics Show), the year
of the robot. Anyone reading this in their fourth decade of life, or
older, will remember the toy robot or car that you got Christmas
morning with a long wire to a remote control. If you were really lucky,
you got the one that not only turned, but also backed up when it hit
a wall. Then you gave your kids the same thing, but the big change
was the remote was now wireless (the back-up feature was still an
optional extra). Now, to everyone’s amazement (amusement?), the
2012 version is the same robot or car controlled by an app on your
smart phone. Even Justin Bieber was there at one robot announcement, demonstrating how great it was. I really don’t get the attraction.
I remember I liked my wired version - for about ten minutes. When
the robot can wash my truck is when I will be excited to get one!
answers. MTX (mtx.com) continued to add to its line of over 500
models of ThunderForms. These are factory-matched subwoofer
enclosures to add that missing element, bass response, to factory
systems. AudioControl (audiocontrol.com) showed new models of
integration units that allow the add-on of amps, subwoofers and
better speakers, including a new in-dash version of the Epicenter
Bass Restoration unit. Keep the factory head-unit and have it sound
better than you thought possible.
The Las Vegas show reported a new attendance record this year
with over 150,000 attendees, a new exhibitor record of over 3,100
and the largest show floor space at over 1.8 million square feet.
This is one big event.
In the vehicle electronics area, the largest booth spaces are now
from the automobile manufacturers. In attendance were Ford, Audi,
Kia and Hyundai. All of them where showing their latest hybrid cars
as well as mock-ups of the latest they have for in-vehicle media, such
as Ford’s Microsoft Sync system. Audi had a mock-up of the new
A3 interior with its latest in-vehicle entertainment and controls. Of
course, smart phone syncing and Bluetooth were important here.
I continually harp on OEM integration — how we can add to the
factory stereo system in your car to increase performance and ease
of adding iPods and smart phones. I am starting to see some more
Speed & Sound RPM Feb / Mar 2012
41
CES REPORT
It was great to see JVC Mobile (jvc.ca) back on the show floor
with the latest in its DRVN Series, pronounced “driven,” with
the new “DRVN XX” series of step-up amplifiers and subwoofers. JVC Mobile’s DRVN subwoofers include two designs which
have been engineered to work in enclosures as small as .75
cubic feet. JVC’s lineup of DRVN amplifiers, designed to have
a small footprint, feature a MOS-FET power supply and output
stage, enhanced low-frequency sound performance specifically
tuned to CS-GD1200 woofers, increased dynamic power, and
are all bridgeable.
Another tactic to improving your OEM car audio system is changing out the stock head-unit for an aftermarket one. The biggest
stumbling block is that many automobile manufacturers have
additional circuitry in the head-unit that makes this change-out
difficult or expensive. Dual Electronics (dualav.com) showed five
new “factory replacement” head-units that are literally the same
ones you can pay extra for when you purchase your new car,
at much lower prices. These units look exactly like the factory
ones, use the same wiring and connectors, and add things like
full navigation and wireless Bluetooth for hands-free phone calls
and streaming music from your phone. Dual says this is just the
start of many models to come in the near future. Combine this
with a new amp and subwoofer and you have the makings of a
fabulous audio system!
Kenwood (kenwood.ca) had a terrific demo car and has added
Android phone compatibility to its head-units. The Kenwood Music
Control APP will allow Android users to connect their phone via
USB and access the music stored on their phone through the
stereo controls. Kenwood’s navigation units are really nice with
the feature they call “My Trend Routing.” This looks to how you
like to use it and which routes you drive and will suggest new
routes based on this historical info.
As 20+ CESs are behind me now, I see each year that the show
is changing from primarily an audio/video show to now encompassing many other technology areas. I can’t wait to see what
it’s going to be like 20 years from now — stay tuned…
CES REPORT
CES 2012 – Another view
Photos and Story by Dave MacKinnon
Norm has covered off many of the highlights of this year’s CES
quite eloquently. For me, on merely my 8th time at the show in
my 24 year career, It was quite different for me. Usually I am
there to directly support the company I work for, or as a member
of the press. This year, I was there on behalf of Clarion, but
working the Wirez booth – a brand of installation accessories
that Clarion distributes in Canada. It was quite stressful to deal
with coordinating the booth rental, shipping, setup and so on
– but at the same time, fun! I know - I’m weird that way.
Wirez was set up between the Arc Audio and JL Audio booths
– All three of which had a lot of traffic. JL showed a good collection of new products for each category, speakers, subs, marine,
home theatre subs and their new Stealthmod product. This is
a complete audio system upgrade with subwoofer enclosure,
amplifier, speakers and wiring harnesses. It’s currently available
for the 2011+ Camaro Convertible, 2010+ Kia Soul and BMW X5
with the Premium Logic 7 audio system. Phoenix Gold showed
a similar concept with their Integrated series - offering a large
subwoofer and amplifier with wiring harness for the Camaro
and Cruze.
Arc Audio launched their long-awaited PS8 processor. A project
that has been under development for several years, and stands
as perhaps the best-sounding, most powerful processor in the
mobile electronics industry. I was equally impressed by my visit
to the Rockford Fosgate booth over at the Palms hotel. They
had on display all the latest and greatest from Rockford and
Lightning Audio, as well as Renegade, Helix, Brax and a forthcoming announcement that they will be distributing mObridge in
43
CES REPORT
the US. What stood out for me - was their Boosted Rail series
of amps. The demo had me smiling for at least a couple hours.
Worth looking at these little fellers!
CES is, for many of us, all about the cars we see in manufacturer’s booths. I liked the black wide body Camaro in the Diamond
Audio / Cerwin Vega Mobile booth, as well as the Can-Am Spyder that Sound Choice Audio and Performance built for Massive
Audio. The SHO Taurus in the MTX booth was clean and effective – something I’d envision as a personal daily driver. There
was a black and white Cadillac CTS-V with a huge supercharger
in the Soundstream booth. A pair of Lamborghini’s graced the
floor as well - a Murcielago convertible in the Concept booth
and in the Kenwood booth.
I have to say, for the second year in a row, I came away from the
show remembering the Audi booth. Not perhaps for their cars,
or their technology demonstrations, but for the intensity of the
booth itself. A 50x100 gridwork of fluorescent bulbs hung atop
an all-white floor. Inside, an A7, A8 and their Urban Concept
sat – bathed in intense white light. What a sight.
I left Vegas, tired, but with a much better feeling for the industry than I did last year. There was renewed enthusiasm, cool
products and a much less stressed atmosphere. I’m genuinely
looking forward to next year.
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PERFORMANCE
To GTI or To TDI –
That Is The New Question
Are increasingly advanced tuning technologies
making the TDI the next GTI?
Story by Budd Stanley, photos courtesy of VW
HPA and several other companies are seeing the performance
benefits that the TDI engine has hidden deep down inside with
’ve always been a big Volkswagen fan. I’ve built and modified a little electronic tweaking.
old Rabbits, Golfs and GTIs and they provided me with some of
the most fun driving moments. While the old GTIs were a blast to However, is it feasible to make a TDI comparable to a GTI, and is
drive with their high-revving twin-cam engines, I equally adored it cost effective to do so? Today’s standard TDI comes equipped
the TDIs for their ridiculously efficient engines and ability to sip with a 140-hp, 236 lb-ft 2.0L turbodiesel good for 6.7L/100km in
gas at a rate that would leave most modern hybrids blushing. At the city and 4.6L/100km on the highway for $25,425. In comthat time, the fun-to-responsibility ratio that I argued in my mind parison, the GTI has a 200-hp, 207 lb-ft 2.0L turbo petrol engine
was most definitely dominated by the fun side, but with today’s that gets 9.9L/100km in the city and 6.7L/100km on the highway
great leaps in both engine and tuning technology, I’ve started starting at $29,375.
wondering what the true capabilities of the TDI might be.
Programmers are extremely flexible and can offer the customer
Testing the 2011 GTI last year, I was reminded just how good several different stages of performance and fuel efficiencies to
it is; the performance, quality and refinement of its ride really choose from. From light tunes to free up the engine’s breathing
makes it one of the great performance compacts available on and up the efficiency slightly, to a full race-inspired tune that
the market today. However, I was equally taken aback when I
witnessed a TDI-powered Golf receive an ECM programming tune
that yielded over 50 horsepower and 80 lb-ft of torque without
even opening the hood!
I
This got me thinking, is the new TDI capable of GTI performance
or even weirder yet, is the TDI capable of outperforming VW’s
performance darling? We had a chat with programming specialists HPA Motorsports of Surrey, B.C., to see just what the pros
and cons of tuning a diesel engine for performance applications
are.
Marcel Horn of HPA explains that the great gains in power with
the new common-rail TDI engines are due in part to the new
emissions laws that are enforced in California and other areas of
Canada and Europe. When the engines are so overbuilt to meet
these restrictions, they can be opened up by today’s technology
to drastically increase power, efficiency or a combination of the
two through the reprogramming of the car’s computer. As a result,
PERFORMANCE
of 30 to 60 horsepower and between 50
and 90 ft-lb of torque. If your TDI is DSG
equipped, you need an additional $649
for the gearbox tune.
Of course, it’s not all about power, and
the GTI has both handling and braking
performance advantages over the TDI, so
throw in $1,200 for an upgraded suspension setup and another $400 to bring the
brakes up to snuff, and you are looking at
a minimal investment of $2,100 to bring the
performance of your TDI up to par with the
GTI, while still getting respectable fuel efficiency. In the grand scheme of things, you
still save yourself nearly $2,000, which can
go into more extreme levels of tuning, taking the performance figures even higher.
requires the upgrading of fuel pumps, injectors, turbos, intakes
and exhaust, some tuners have been pumping supercar numbers Obviously, the power is distributed in very different ways. The
out of what is often thought of as an engine for those who don’t GTI will work its best in the high-revving ranges making use of
want to stoop so low as a hybrid vehicle.
its horsepower advantage, while the TDI will be getting its power
way down low between 2,000 and 3,000 rpms, when the torque
However, as Marcel explains, issues develop in respect to the muscles the car forward, then fall off sharply. So yes, in theory,
DSG gearbox. While the manual gearbox is still simply gears the TDI can be made comparable to the GTI on paper, but anyone
connected by a manual shift lever, the much more complicated who’s wrenched on a vehicle knows, in the real world, things aren’t
DSG is computer-controlled and has several safety parameters all that they seem. Whether or not the TDI is as fast on a track or
set in place that are able to override any engine software once it has the same great fun factor you get behind the wheel of the GTI,
sees power in excess of its factory programmed 258 lb-ft of torque we just won’t know until we get the two side-by-side.
limit. As the DSG is much more efficient in getting the absolute
most efficiency and performance out of the TDI, the vast majority
of TDIs are sold equipped with a DSG.
Not one to give away business, HPA has also solved this issue
as well with a dedicated DSG program tune available in several
different stages, allowing shifts to be more aggressive; automatic
shifting in M mode is disabled along with up-shifts or down-shifts
at inopportune times while in M mode. So it’s important to know
that if you have a DSG equipped TDI, a gearbox tune will also
be part of the equation. And when it’s all said and done, this is
what that equation looks like.
Depending on where you take your vehicle and what computer
programmer you choose, the average ECM tune for the 2.0L TDI
engine is between $500 and $850, giving you an average increase
47
Poster Worthy
Looking back at
Turbine-powered concepts
By Cam Hutchins
R
andy Browning has had some of the cooler muscle cars including a 1969 Mustang Mach 1, but time for cars was taken up with work
and raising a family, so he would eagerly listen to a co-worker talk about his old hot rod. The die was cast that one day; Randy would
not only have a hot rod, but would build it.
While working on a customer’s house, he saw a ‘50s Merc in his garage that was going nowhere but was not for sale...but he knew a guy
with lots of projects and some for sale. A call was made and Randy got to go to Andy Kotowich’s place and see a very rough 3-window
Coupe. It was so bad, he was not sure what it could look like, so after looking at images online, Andy Kotowich took him to see a ‘36 Ford
3-window at Henry Tjart’s. After seeing his wicked ‘36, he was hooked.
A deal was struck and he bought the 3-window coupe and a 4-door donor car. When he got it home, his wife asked him incredulously “you
paid money for that?” The donor car was stripped of the one or two pieces worth saving and then was discarded.
®
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It's just for people who like...
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UÊreminiscing about happy times
UÊseeing and being seen
with beautiful classics cars
If that's you, watch for the start of our
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Be sure your club is on our mailing list. E-mail us any time at cruisin aw.ca
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® Trade-mark of A&W Trade Marks Limited Partnership, used under licence.
Aldergrove had some parts and he came to the
rescue late one fall evening when he donated
a full cowl including windshield frame that was
in his garden used as yard art. The top of the
windshield had enough of the metal intact to
help Randy with the factory seam of the 1935
Ford 3-window coupe.
For many months, Randy helped, or tried to
stay out of his neighbour’s way, as the body
was being repaired and perfected. After all the
convincing Randy had to do to get Maxwell to
help, Randy was helping out as much as he
could during the prep and fabrication. Meanwhile, the stock frame was boxed by Doug
McLanders of Cloverdale and a TCI front end
was set up for a small-block Chevy, a 390horse 327, backed by a 700R transmission,
with a ‘57 Ford 9-inch with 3.90 gears and parallel leaf springs out back. It has new hot rod
front discs (SSB) for the front, but old-school
‘57 Ford drums on the rear.
After spending some time sourcing parts because of the missing doors
and rear decklid of the ‘36, the car went to a shop and after a short
time he realized it could not sit in a shop awaiting him to cough up a
lot of money, so Randy hauled it home and kept looking for parts and
inspiration. Seeing his neighbour Rob Maxwell work on cars and do
body and mechanical repairs, Randy wanted to hire him to help work
on the hot rod, but found Maxwell very reluctant to work on old cars
as his specialty was repairing modern rides. The persistence paid off
and Maxwell is very proud of his work on the vintage tin.
The body was basically stock except for the
power-actuated rumble seat with a shaved
handle. Randy had looked at a lot of ‘35s and
choosing the paint almost ended up being an obsession. He wanted
orange...but not brown in the shade...not too red on cloudy days...
orange in the sunshine, evenings and the shade. Many panels were
painted with test colours sourced by Rob at Randy’s suggestion.
Dropping by the shop one day, he saw a tiny toy car painted the perfect colour, but heads dropped in despair after it was announced that
it was candy paint and Maxwell was hesitant to try their first candy
job on Randy’s car. Back to scouring the car scene and dealerships
looking for the perfect colour. It seems whenever he would see a
Harold Swift of the BCHRA introduced Randy to Russ Irwin of Hot great colour on a hot rod, the owner protected the paint’s origin and Rod Corner and it turned out they lived pretty close to each other name as if it were a national secret.
and both have a love of the 3-window coupes. They headed out on
an ideas-gathering mission and ended up at Rick Penner’s out in After a couple of weeks, Maxwell relented and agreed to paint the
Chilliwack and saw a ‘35 3-window that was rough. It had the roof car candy and did it in his home shop! He got help from a painter cocut off as well as door tops cut off.
worker, Jat Sahota laying down the candy. First came PPG sterling
silver and then PPG Orange Glow and three coats of clear. The choice
One of Rick’s big dilemmas was how to set up and assemble the door of wheels and tires took some time and the five-spoke American is
tops. The car was not for sale but Randy took the doors home to fit the traditional look for hot rods, but because of the wild shiny paint,
them together on his ‘36 that was missing the doors, and he wanted Randy decided to use the Foose Legend wheels that look like the old
to help him repair them. After having the doors for two months, the five-spoke, and the spokes mimic the shape of the front fender.
car was for sale. In the fall of 2004, he went out
to make a deal and buy the car and it is all the
more memorable because he recalls getting
lost and then getting stopped for speeding and
ending up with only a seatbelt ticket.
The gathering of parts and inspiration continued and with many trips to car shows and
swap meets, the two unassembled cars in the
garage prompted a plan to finish the ‘35 by his
oldest daughter’s graduation in June 2009.
There was a time when most of the parts had
been gathered and his garage resembled an
automotive version of Stonehenge and he
knew it was time to start.
The second car was complete except for small
parts, and its roof had seemingly been removed by a very dull chainsaw...and it needed
every patch panel available. Rear fenders
needed major repairs as well as bullet hole
repairs. While working on the car, it was soon
discovered that the passenger side had been
involved in a big hit years earlier and it was
going to be hard to fix after removing all the
old lead repairs. Russ Irwin knew Barry Wild of
50 Rods & Classics RPM Feb / Mar 2012
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With the daughter’s grad looming, a few buddies gave up their Father’s
Day to wire the car, and all Randy had to do was get the car running
and to get it to stop backfiring and belching long enough to fulfill the
promise and take the daughter to her grad.... which he did, after
sorting out the car with just enough time to shower and jump into
a suit for the trip. So now that the daughter was through her grad, it
was time to concentrate on the interior. Tim at Velocity Upholstery
laid out a stunning two-tone cream ultra leather with a tuck-and-roll
pattern based on an idea of Randy’s.
Randy and Tim came up with some very cool details...including the
seat pattern on the door panels with a smooth headliner. Using a Pioneer deck partially controlled via extensions fabbed by Randy from the
original radio head (on-off volume, stations) and further controlled by
a marine remote set-up installed into a compartment where the stock
optional speaker would normally be, above the windshield. Powered
by two amps, there is a ten-inch sub and four speakers, and the car
was ready for cruising just five years after it was first bought.
The car was on the World of Wheels poster for 2011 and driven locally
at first, as he was to trying to protect the great paint job, but now that
it is a couple of years old and both the girls have graduated, we will
see how many road trips can be fit into a summer.
HISTORY
COLIN CHAPMAN
PLUGGED- IN
By 1955, he was becoming so successful at racing, that he would enter
the Le Mans 24-hour race, piloting his
own creation, the Lotus Mark IX. While
aspiring to drive for the Vanwall Formula
One Team, Chapman lost his brakes and
crashed during practice for the French
GP, ending his racing career, choosing
to manage his own team in sports car
racing. The next year he entered three
Lotuses, the new Lotus 11 winning the
1.1L class, beating cars with much larger
engines.
Colin Chapman
The creator of greatness,
the killer of the great
Story by Budd Stanley, photos courtesy of Lotus
A
ny damn fool can build a bridge that won’t fall down, but it takes
a man of much greater skill to build a bridge that just won’t fall
down. Great men portray characteristics that some would consider
anti social, destructive and even disturbing. Drive and single-minded
dedication to their craft matched with a unique charisma allow a slim
few to rise to levels of greatness that change the norm, that change
history. Colin Chapman was just such a man, bringing the British Auto
Industry kicking and screaming into the modern age, and making
Britain into the motorsport powerhouse that it is today.
The Italians and Germans had dominated motorsports in the postwar
era; there were no winning British cars, and no British drivers had
won the World Championship. Chapman would change all that. He
had a knack for finding and nurturing great talent, developing the
likes of Graham Hill, Jim Clark, Sir Jackie Stewart, Mario Andretti,
and Nigel Mansell. He would also build some of the most iconic
racing machines and road cars that the ‘60s and ‘70s would see.
However, such success came with great sacrifice as Chapman put
vehicle performance well above driver safety, and business success
above his own wellbeing.
Chapman had starting building cars as a 19-year old engineering
student in London in 1947, founding Lotus Engineering upon his
graduation in 1952, building sports cars in an old stable behind the
Railway Hotel in Hornsey, North London. Two years later, he began
building his first racing car, winning every race as both driver and
designer. He did it by getting more power from the engine that was
used in every car by exploiting a loophole in the regulations. It would
be a tactic that would define Chapman’s life, breaking down rules to
the point where he manipulated them to do whatever he wanted, to
be as competitive as possible. Some would call it ingenious; some
would see it as being backhanded or cheating. However you call
him, he was a man who changed the British automotive and racing
business.
Chapman had a philosophy that when
you add lightness to the car, the car
could out-brake and out-corner heavier
cars with more power. It’s a philosophy
that would prove to be most successful,
but it came with its own very serious
drawbacks, such as structural integrity.
Sir Stirling Moss was one of the first to
find out these consequences when he
went to race for Chapman in 1960. He would win Lotus its first GP
triumph at Monaco, but suffered a serious crash at Spa when the
front wheel just simply fell off. The resulting accident left Moss with a
broken back and legs. Having wheels just fall off was a frighteningly
regular occurrence at Lotus, as Chapman’s single-minded devotion to
building the fastest cars would not be tarnished with safety concerns
for the drivers who piloted them.
Chapman famously commented that if a racing car fell apart just as it
crossed the finish line that it was a perfectly-built racing car that did
exactly what it was supposed to do, nothing more. Building lighter
and more fragile racing cars became an obsession, with him even
trying to convince a scrutineer that paper was fireproof. He took a
road map from the garage wall and put it between the engine and
drivers’ compartment, cut holes for the steering column and pedals,
and painted it with aluminum paint. The scrutinizers were going to
fail the car for not having a fireproof firewall between the engine
and cabin, and Chapman fought vigourously, saying it was. It was
instances like this that started to show the troubling side of the driven
Chapman. But then, you have to wonder about a man who rushes
out into the middle of a track to throw his hat in the air when one of
his cars wins, stepping within inches of cars racing each other hard
to the finish line.
It wasn’t long before serious accidents turned into fatal ones. Allen
Stacey was the first to lose his life at the wheel of a Team Lotus Formula One car in 1960, followed by the Mexican, Ricardo Rodríguez,
who suffered a fatal accident at his home GP in November of 1962.
HISTORY
COLIN CHAPMAN
PLUGGED- IN
It would only be one short month later that Gary Hocking would
also become a victim, racing a Lotus 25 for the Rob Walker Racing
Team. Ironically, Hocking moved to Formula One from Motorcycle
racing after the death of a friend in the Isle of Mann TT, thinking
auto racing would be safer.
However, the death that hit Chapman the hardest was that of his
first World Champion, Scotland’s Jim Clark, who crashed in a Lotus
Formula Two car at the Hockenheimring in Germany in 1968. Clark
had given Lotus its first Formula One title in 1963, and an Indy 500
win in 1965, and the two had a remarkably close relationship for a
driver and team owner. Yet despite all the accidents and deaths,
racers all wanted to be a part of the Team Lotus domination of
‘60s and ‘70s Formula One racing.
Dan Gurney is quoted as saying, “Did I think the Lotus way of doing
things was good? No. We had several structural failures in those
cars. But at the time, I felt it was the price you paid for getting
something significantly better.” However, the risks were paying off.
Team Lotus was first to achieve 50 Grand Prix victories despite
Ferrari having a seven-year head start, while Team Lotus remains
one of the most successful racing teams of all time, winning seven
Formula One Constructors’ titles, six Drivers’ Championships, and
Clark’s Indianapolis 500.
Despite the inherent risks, Chapman inspired a fierce loyalty to
those who worked for him. Some even said that he portrayed the
charisma, manipulation, motivational and inspirational qualities
of Hitler, only directing his energies towards world domination in
motorsports and not military-enforced politics. “He was a person
that could make you do things that you didn’t even know you were
capable of,” commented Jim Endruweit, a former mechanic for
the Lotus team.
ing it as the class of the field. Andretti would go on to win the F1
World Championship that year, but Chapman took the theory one
step farther, developing an all-carbon fibre car, with ‘twin chassis’ technology where the driver’s tub had separate suspension
from the aerodynamic parts of the car. The design was deemed
an unfair advantage and the Lotus 88 was subsequently banned
from racing.
It was around this time that Chapman began his downfall. Another
Team Lotus driver who would become a close friend of Chapman’s,
Ronnie Petersen, was killed on the first lap of the Italian Grand Prix
at Monza in 1978. Chapman took his death very hard and began
to turn his back on racing, becoming more and more absent from
the shop. Then came the DeLorean scandal.
In need of cash, Chapman agreed to design and engineer John
DeLorean’s new gullwing sports car. However, when DeLorean
went bust, the receivers filed through the books and they found
that the work Lotus performed on the car was paid for twice. An
additional $17 million was sent to GDP enterprises based in Switzerland, the company Chapman had created to pay racing bills
without reporting taxes back to the British government. Soon, he
was spending more and more time away from both the racing
team and car builder. Both businesses were beginning to flirt with
bankruptcy, and Chapman was in danger of losing everything and
doing jail time for the DeLorean affair. However, it seemed everything caught up to him one night in December in 1982, when he
suffered a massive heart attack and died at the age of 54.
He lived an amazing life of creating great road cars, great racing
cars, great drivers and great leaps in automotive engineering. Yet,
living with the responsibility of holding the drivers’ lives in his hands
while willing to win at any cost took a massive toll on Chapman.
Nevertheless, despite all the tragedy and heartache, he will be
remembered for his amazing achievements that had him holding
the racing world in his hands for over two decades.
It was this motivating charisma and the ingenious brain of Chapman
that would change the way racing cars were built in 1962. It was
with the Lotus 25 Formula One car that Chapman introduced the
monocoque chassis to the racing world. The revolutionary design
made the engine and gearbox the primary structure, mounting the
rear suspension and brakes off the gearbox case, and mounting
the front tub and chassis to the front of the engine. It was a design
so ahead of its time that it is still implemented in today’s Formula
One cars. The Lotus 25 would go on to become an icon in Formula
One history, only outdone by the Lotus 79 which saw the union of
another iconic driver and Chapman.
Andretti’s development expertise helped Chapman build the Lotus
78 into a race-winning car. Then in 1978, Lotus shook Formula
One once again, implementing aerodynamic ground effects on the
Lotus 79, giving the car massive amounts of downforce, separatRods & Classics RPM Feb / Mar 2012 55
CLASSIC CORNER
From model cars
to the real thing
22-year-old’s dream car
By Nigel Mattews
ichard Bosley was a horticulturalist from Ohio, and despite loving
his Jaguar XK120, he was not happy with its performance and he
yearned for a car shaped like the Ferraris he had seen in Road & Track
magazine during the early Fifties.
R
inch Chrysler Hemi V8 with a Cunningham manifold and a five-speed
When he attended the first race at Sebring as a volunteer worker, he Borg Warner transmission were used. The gearbox was probably the
decided to build his own sports car, beginning what would become a only downside of the entire project because it was very noisy; perhaps
one saving grace was that the Ferrari transmissions of that era were
three-year project.
not much quieter.
When asked what on earth led him to believe that he could possibly
build a car, he replied, “I have built lots of models, so I am sure I can With a top speed of 160 mph (258 km/h), he sourced a speedometer
from a Ford police car. To keep the thirsty Hemi engine fed, the entire
build a complete car.”
rear of the car is a 55-gallon gas tank with a flip-top filler mounted in
Bosley decided to build the body out of a new product called fibreglass, the roof.
and spent some time learning the skills of working with glass fibre cloth
and resin at the company that would later build the early Corvettes. He Unfortunately, a lack of funding prevented Bosley from going into produccarved the mould out of plaster and built a chassis out of four-inch steel tion with his GT. With more than 100,000 miles on the clock, he decided
to trade it for an ex-Sebring Corvette SR-2 that would form the basis of
tubing to go underneath the finished body.
his next and last car, called the Bosley Interstate.
The front suspension was from a 1950 Ford and the rear axle from a
1948 Mercury with modifications of his own design resembling those of That original one-off Bosley GT MKI now resides in the Petersen Museum
the C-Type Jaguar. To achieve the power that he wanted, a 331 cubic- collection in Los Angeles. Quite an achievement for a 22 year-old!
Venerable Jag convertible the cat’s meow
By Nigel Matthews
The Jaguar Mark VII was launched at the 1950 London Motor Show. It
replaced the Jaguar Mark V, and one would think that the next model
ransformation from a four-door sedan to a two-door droptop has would be the MK VI. Because Bentley had given its new model the
name MK VI (1946-1952), consequently Jaguar decided to call its next
been beautifully executed
model the Mark VII.
My immediate reaction to spotting this 1955 Jaguar MK VII at the Hilton
Head Island Concours in South Carolina was to think that the boys The conversion of this particular MK VII four-door sedan into a two-door
back at Brown’s Lane in Coventry, England - the home of the Jaguar convertible has been beautifully executed, and the addition of some
factory - would be turning in their graves if they saw this. Upon closer exterior wood trim, making it look like a woodie from the period, is
quite eye catching. Perhaps Jaguar should have built a spacious adult
inspection, I changed my initial reaction.
four-seat convertible like this. The convertible top used is Jaguar and
looks like it belongs; it came off a donor 1990 Jaguar XJS. The timeless twin-cam, 6-cylinder Jaguar engine has been replaced with a 302
CID Ford V8 and a C6 automatic transmission, and the rear axle is a
positraction assembly from a Mustang. The magnificent interior wood
trim is original to the car and has been restored.
T
The Mark VII was built between 1951 and 1957, with a total production
of 30,969 examples built. The remaining undelivered cars built were
lost on Feb. 1, 1957 in the great fire that almost destroyed the entire
Jaguar factory.
To view some of the fire photos visit http: //icserver.no-ip.biz/coventry/
viewtopic.php?f=8&t=3536
Nigel Matthews is the sales and marketing executive for Hagerty
Canada. He can be contacted via email at
[email protected]
BOOK REVIEW
Toyota Under Fire:
Lessons for
Turning Crisis into
Opportunity
Review by Russell Purcell
I
t has been a turbulent couple of years for the auto industry, but no
company experienced more turmoil than Toyota. In August, 2009,
a report of a case of unintended sudden acceleration that led to a
number of fatalities kicked off a firestorm of accusations and finger
pointing directed towards the company, and for a time, these claims
threatened to bring the Japanese industrial giant to its knees.
In their new book, Toyota Under Fire, authors Jeffrey K. Liker and
Timothy N. Ogden provide the reader with a comprehensive study
of Toyota’s rise to the top of the automotive industry, and the effect
that both a worldwide recession and a growing oil crisis were having
on the company’s operations and growth. Add to this a thorough
examination of the recall scandal that put into question the brand’s
reputation for quality, safety and reliability, and you have a book that
will open your eyes to the many trials and tribulations that come with
being regarded as number one.
Jeff Liker stresses that “this book is not intended to be a defence of
Toyota or investigative journalism.” Instead, the authors sought “to
provide the materials that are relevant to understanding the crisis
and what others can learn from it.”
The authors are quick to point out that many of the accusations
against Toyota had little basis in fact. Many of the media reports were
inaccurate - based on the opinions of “experts” with little expertise,
or instigated by law firms looking for a big payday from one of the
world’s largest industrial enterprises. This allowed the Japanese industrial giant to quickly find its feet again and regain its market share,
reputation for quality, and of course, profitability.
This relatively quick turn-around was possible due to the “Toyota Way”
- Toyota’s long-held approach to leadership and operational excellence based on philosophy and culture. “The Toyota Way demands
that any problem be thoroughly investigated before any conclusions
are reached.” Each team member is expected to “continuously improve what is within their control.” As a teacher, I wish my students
would embrace this concept and take it as their own mantra for life.
The company that began as a maker of innovative “mistake-proof”
looms in the late 1800s had revolutionized manufacturing for
the textile industry, and many of its long-held production and
business practices helped the company rise to prominence in
the automobile sector over the past half-century.
An evolution of Toyota’s cultural foundation - the master-apprentice internship - saw this relationship reformed to ensure
that product quality and worker training were improved. The
recall(s) gave the company and its personnel (at all levels) the
opportunity to learn from the actions and decisions made dur-
ing this period, as well as going forward, so that Toyota could
improve as a whole.
The recession ignited the pursuit of economies of scale to keep costs
down and eliminate waste, while the recall forced Toyota’s decision
makers to recognize that the customer was the next step in the
production process, not just an end user. As a result, the company
has more respect for the needs and wants of its staff, and looks to
them to continue to improve the company’s products. Toyota took
responsibility for the perceived design and safety issues, and now puts
its customers first when making both engineering and manufacturing
decisions, as well as at the sales and service level of contact.
If anything, Toyota has proven how resilient it can be when faced with
hardships of massive scale. The company still managed to maintain
its record of profitability and its status as the number one auto maker
in terms of sales, despite the floundering economy and the high cost
of the recall. With this new commitment to people, rather than raw
numbers, maybe Toyota will lose its image as a ruthless corporate
giant and be looked upon as a company that cares. Let’s hope so.
Welcome back Toyota.
Title: Toyota Under Fire: Lessons for Turning Crisis
into Opportunity
Authors: Jeffrey K. Liker and Timothy N. Ogden
ISBN: 978-0-07-176299-1
MSRP: CAN$ 23.95
www.toyotaunderfire.com
Rods & Classics RPM Feb / Mar 2012 57
NEW PRODUCT SHOWCASE
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which allows them to fit many modern
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FAST has now taken its coil-on red powder coat finish.
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alone kit for GM LS1/LS6 and
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Continental’s new CrossContact
as the ability to adjust a vacuum advance feature and a rev limiter.
LX20 with EcoPlus is a premier
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The DiabloSport inTune is one
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For more information please go to www.diablosport.com
NEW PRODUCT SHOWCASE
Flex-a-lite Direct-fit Auto
Transmission Cooler for
2010-2011 Camaro
steel bleeder valves. They feature
a dual-pad pin with an O-ring design that will work to eliminate pad
chatter. Also included in the kit are
cross-drilled Big Bite rotors, performance brake pads, and all of the
mounting brackets and necessary
Owners of 2010-2011 Chevy Camaros hardware.
now have a way to easily extend the life
of their automatic transmissions with For more information please go to
the Flex-a-lite Automatic Transmission www.ssbrakes.com
Cooler. Severe use or addition of significant power can deteriorate the performance of an automatic transmission,
but the direct-fit system mounts a 7 ½ x
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conditioning condenser. The brackets for
the cooler attach to existing holes, which
makes for a drill-free installation. It uses
unique Turbulators which are inside the
cooler tubes to increase heat transfer Borla is now offering both Cat-Back
from the fluid.
and Axle-Back exhaust systems for
the 2011-2012 Ford Mustang GT.
For more information please go to www.flex-a-lite.com
The system is available in three
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The S-Type has a slightly less aggressive exhaust note and utilizes
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For more information please go to www.borla.com
with
Intermeccanica’s
Henry Reisner
Presented by your local GRiP Tire Store
Visit them on the web at : www.griptire.ca
ancouver-based Intermeccanica is a well-known, boutique builder
V
of high-quality reproductions of classic Porsche Speedster and
Roadster sports cars. I recently sat down with Intermeccanica principal
Henry Reisner to discuss a couple of major developments that will
have a profound effect on the company’s future success.
RPM: I understand that you are working on a number of
interesting new projects?
HR: This is true. We are developing an exciting new project utilizing
a Subaru engine. Unfortunately, there aren’t many bits and pieces to
help with the conversion so we are working on a few modifications
at the moment. There are some components out there for stuffing
Subaru engines into the back of Volkswagen Vanagons, but the exhaust headers are atrocious and don’t fit our application.
RPM: Subaru’s four-cylinder engines have proven very
reliable. Which ones are you planning to use in your
cars?
HR: Well we are doing two cars back-to-back, but they are using different engines. The first one is a 2.2-litre and the second is a 2.5-litre,
but both are single-cam motors.
RPM: What was the big appeal of trying to use the
Subaru engines?
HR: We have been pushing the VW Golf and Audi water-cooled powerplants as of late, but the electronics in those are pretty complicated, and
they don’t seem to get anyone very excited. I thought that using these
engines was going to be a winner simply because I could buy crate
motors directly from Audi and Volkswagen. The Subaru thing popped
up when a client I had been corresponding with for a number of years
finally decided he wanted to build a car. However, he requested that we
use a Subaru engine. Interestingly enough, as soon as word trickled
out that his project was in the works I received a second request for a
Subaru-powered car.
RPM: That is an interesting coincidence.
HR: Well, it showed me that this could be a very interesting product
for my clients. The only real limitation from my end is that by choosing
a Subaru you can only deal with rebuilt engines. On the other hand,
the engines are really solid. I haven’t driven one yet, but on paper, they
deliver great horsepower and plenty of torque, and there are lots of
performance upgrades out there for them.
RPM: How well do they fit in your cars?
HR: The general layout of the Subaru engine is perfect for our application. I am so used to sticking in-line four-cylinder or opposed
four-cylinder engines into our cars, but these Subaru units slip right in.
I think it will be a winner.
RPM: What will you be using for a transmission?
ments) had proposed for the site after Intermeccanica. The building
would be named the Meccanica Building and he wanted to know what
I thought about the idea. Of course I thought it was an awesome idea,
as it would be a nice tribute to both the family and the company.
The building will retain a somewhat industrial flair, so I have been
working with the people at Cressey Developments for about a year
providing their design and marketing people with information about
Intermeccanica’s history, design sketches and artwork.
RPM: This sounds like a great idea to preserve the
memory of the company, but what does it mean for the
continuation of the business?
HR: The first one will use a Porsche 915 five-speed. The second one
will use a VW IRS four-speed. There is a company in Australia building a reverse running ring and pinion so you can take a front-engine,
front-wheel drive Subaru package and stick it in the back and use that
transaxle. If this whole program has legs, that is absolutely, without a
doubt, the way to go.
HR: Well, if all goes well, the Meccanica would be designed to incorporate our shop as part of the building. We would essentially be housed
at street-level and become a prominent display for passing pedestrians
and traffic on Quebec Street.
RPM: That is really innovative. It would give your company great exposure.
It will take a bit of engineering to make it all work. I don’t yet know the
length of the transmission, plus we will need to modify the gearbox HR: It really would, but there are still some hurdles we need to overfrom four-wheel drive to two-wheel drive operation, but apparently that come. The people at Cressey Developments have been great landlords
and keep me up-to-date on what is going on.
is not much of a challenge.
RPM: It sounds like you have already embraced this new RPM: What are the hurdles?
project and are raring to go.
HR: About two months ago, we became a little more involved as the
HR: Well, there are some things yet to be determined, but ideally, if developer wanted to find out if it would be possible to use a couple of
one could run a Subaru engine and transmission, that would be the our cars as car share cars. For every large development happening in
cat’s meow. Parts are readily available and for those customers who the City of Vancouver, the developer is obliged to provide a car share
prefer an automatic transmission, we would now have a five-speed vehicle (or vehicles - based on the number of units) that they provide
automatic available. The final program is still a little ways down the for the use of the tenants. This seemed like a good idea until there was
a change in the rules. You now have to purchase the cars from one of
road, but we are excited about it.
the existing car share programs that operate in the City of Vancouver.
RPM: I understand that there may be some other big This poses a potential problem as the cars end up being used by a
larger pool of people. As we build low-volume, custom-built cars, I am
changes in coming months.
a little bit leery of what problems may arise if we had to do that.
HR: Yes, we have been faced with the possibility of having to move
our operations elsewhere as our lease for this space is up and there The other hurdle is with the city planning department. The problem is
our business model doesn’t currently fit the official development plan
is a new development scheduled for this lot.
for the neighbourhood. The developer is working hard to try to get the
RPM: When we last spoke this past summer you were zoning changed to light-industrial to permit the shop to be incorporated
looking at some new locations to set-up shop, and I know in a residential tower.
your goal was to try to stay in Vancouver in an effort to
preserve the continuity of your many relationships with RPM: Hopefully this project gets approval, as it would be
a shame to see Intermeccanica leave Vancouver.
suppliers, employers and customers.
HR: This is true. A little over a year ago, Scott Cressey, who has been HR: Well, we should know within the next six months or so, but you
my landlord for about the last five years, asked me out for coffee to are right, it would be a shame to have to leave Vancouver as this has
discuss an idea he had to theme a building his firm (Cressey Develop- been Intermeccanica’s home for the last 30 years.
WE`VE GOT TRACTION
griptire.ca
Presented by:
Parting Shots is where we share those photos that defy classification. If you’ve seen something fourwheeled (or otherwise) that you would like to share, please send it to [email protected]
Highway
cruising at
its finest.
That door may not keep the rain out as
good as the stock one.
His employees
sit at much
lower end
desks.
Why spend the effort to move the tree when you can
go right through it?
THEIR SUCCESS IS
www.compcams.com
COMP CAMS WORKS WITH THE WORLD’S TOP
RACERS & ENGINE BUILDERS TO DELIVER
BETTER VALVE TRAIN PRODUCTS FOR
YOUR ENGINE
“Winning breeds winning.” When it comes to valve train
technology, never have truer words been spoken. COMP Cams®
camshafts and related valve train components are used by the
winningness drivers in all forms of circle track competition from
dirt to pavement. Why does this matter to you? Because
everything we learn from working with those big name racers
transfers directly back into the products we make for your engine.
Most often, those well known racers have the luxury of
ample testing time and financial resources - both of which are
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on-track testing efforts, willingness to push beyond accepted
limitations and quality feedback (after all, these are some of the
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it provides a wealth of information that allows COMP Cams® to
consistently deliver better valve train products.
From valve lift rule classes to two barrel carbureted
engines, and unlimited dirt late models to crate engines - COMP
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a part of your winning combination in 2010.
YOUR GAIN
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The COMP Cams® engineering team is constantly refining
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Manufacturing Consistency & Quality
Utilizing the performance aftermarket’s largest and most
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Custom Grind, No Problem
While some other cam companies love to tout their custom
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With our massive on-site core inventory, we can grind you
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Industry-Leading Technical Support
From our toll free CAM HELP® technical assistance line that
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train experts we are committed to helping you get every last
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their success is

Transcription

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