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CONTENTS
A Relative
Bargain
The 2012 Hyundai Genesis R-Spec delivers a near
perfect mix of luxury and performance
..pg 12
ALSO INSIDE:
Performance
What side effects do
bigger wheels have
on your car?
...pg 46
Mercedes-Benz C350 Coupe
The C350
Coupe
combines
performance
with strong
design and
technolgoy
...pg 16
ONE-ON-ONE
Custom Car Builder Troy Ladd
...pg 60
JDM ENVY
Original chopped mini
The Mini Cooper S Coupe’s
predecessor...pg 54
Acura TSX
transformed into
a true JDM
...pg 36
Porsche camp4
Porsche’s Camp4 winter driving
experience...pg 20
Starting Lines--------------------------------------------------------------- 4
First Drive: Mazda CX-5 -------------------------------------------------- 18
Car Care Feature----------------------------------------------------------- 22
2012 Performance Tire Guide ------------------------------------------- 26
RPM Test Fleet ------------------------------------------------------------ 32
Road Test: Mini Cooper S Coupe---------------------------------------- 34
The Truck Guy-------------------------------------------------------------- 35
Megaspeed Coverage----------------------------------------------------- 41
Plugged In: Bluetooth ---------------------------------------------------- 43
Classic Corner------------------------------------------------------------- 56
New Product Showcase-------------------------------------------------- 58
Parting Shots-------------------------------------------------------------- 62
‘62 Corvette
Bob Elsdon’s
1962 Fuelinjected
Corvette
...pg 48
RPM Apr / May 2012 STARTING LINES
Aston Zagato Going Into Production?
Volume 14, Issue No. 2
April/May 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
David Symons
A
ston Martin’s V12 Zagato was the star of many
auto shows and even the Nurburgring 24-hour
race last year. Thankfully, the feedback that Aston
has been receiving has meant that it has just released the first production reveal at the Kuwait Concours d’ Elegance. Only 150 of the super-exclusive
Astons will be made for worldwide consumption,
and you can bet that with its release being held
in Kuwait that the Middle East will be the primary
region the car will be sold. The sexy new Aston will
feature a 510-horsepower V12 and an aluminumand-carbon body structure, and is said to be priced
around $550,000. If the model on display at the 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show is an indicator, though,
future owners have much to look forward to.
Hybrid Legal Dramas
While hybrid vehicles may give their owners warm and fuzzy feelings of responsibility, there have
been some not-so-public dramas going on behind the scenes of hybrid producers. It wasn’t so
long ago that hybrid giant Toyota was in an eight-year legal battle with a company called Paice
over patent infringements dealing with its Hybrid Synergy Drive that has several parts that are
patented with Paice. That legal battle was put to bed in 2010
with Toyota agreeing to pay royalties to Paice for the Prius,
Highlander Hybrid and Lexus RX400h models it sold. However,
with the Koreans coming out with a fresh set of vehicles with
hybrid technology suspiciously similar to Toyota’s, Paice has
found itself back in court, this time with Hyundai and Kia, disputing the same allegations as with Toyota. Paice claims that
Hyundai and Kia should have known that Toyota was dealing
with legal issues, especially since Paice has been contacting Hyundai about the issue, and says
that the Korean automakers are infringing upon three patents that Paice owns.
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Publishing Schedule: RPM is published 6 times per year by RPM Media Inc. Every second month.
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Second class mailing #40050183.
General Policies: The views expressed by the writers are not necessarily endorsed by the publisher.
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 Apr / May 2012
STARTING LINES
Porsche Sweeps Competitive Podium
At Daytona 24-hour
The name Porsche and racing have been going
hand-in-hand for more than 60 years now, building highly competitive and reliable race machinery
that can be bought directly from the factory. For a
privateer, buying a 911 GT3 competition car is the
simplest way to become competitive in a racing
series. Porsche proved this fact once again at the
2012 Rolex 24 at Daytona by sweeping the GT
podium in what has been called “the most competitive field of all time,” with the likes of Mazda RX8s,
Chevy Camaros, BMW M3s, Audi R8s and a flock of
Ferrari 458s. In the end, the victory went to Porsche
works driver Richard Lietz (Austria) in the Porsche
911 GT3 Cup fielded by Magnus Racing with teammates René Rast (Germany) as well as Americans
Andy Lally and John Potter. After a thrilling finale in
front of record crowds on the Daytona International
Speedway, Lietz saw the flag 9.412 seconds ahead
of his factory pilot colleague Wolf Henzler. The
previous year’s winner from Germany shared the
cockpit of TRG Racing’s Porsche 911 GT3 Cup with
Jeroen Bleekemolen (Netherlands), Marc Goossens
(Belgium), Spencer Pumpelly (USA) and Steven
Bertheau (USA). Scoring third place was Porsche
works driver Marc Lieb (Germany) with Americans
Hurley Haywood, Leh Keen and Andrew Davis in the
legendary number 59 Porsche 911 GT3 Cup run by
the Daytona-winning squad Brumos Racing.
Chrysler Earns $183-Million In 2011
Late in 2010, Chrysler made a huge push to create
exciting new products with help from Fiat, and vastly
improved its current products with efficient new
engines, better interior and exterior designs and
competitive prices to make themselves players once
again. Well, it seems all the long nights have paid
off as Chrysler
Group’s full-year
2011 net income
has improved to
$183 million from
a net loss of $652
million in 2010,
despite a $551million loss on
extinguishment of debt in Q2 2011. Fourth quarter
net income was $225 million, the highest quarterly
net income since the new Company began operations in 2009. Worldwide vehicle sales for full year
2011 totaled 1,855,000, up 22 percent from 2010;
fourth quarter worldwide vehicle sales were 479,000,
up 28 percent compared with a year ago. The future
is looking brighter for the Pentastar, and it is not
finished yet, with several new vehicles making their
debut later this year.
STARTING LINES
Acura Shows NSX Concept
The Acura NSX has been a bit of a mystery. A brilliant supercar,
the original NSX was a performance titan, designed by Honda’s top
engineering squad, and tweaked to perfection by Formula One ace
Ayrton Senna. However, as the ‘90s came and went, Honda did little
to keep the NSX competitive, as only a minor headlight redesign was
given to the car, signaling its death soon after. Since then, Honda
has been taunting us with a successor, bringing out concept cars,
and even putting one into the famous Japanese Super GT racing
series, yet no production car has been seen. Well, Acura is taunting
us once again, and this time it says the NSX will live once again, with
the release of this concept. Acura says that the new car will make
use of lightweight materials and a mid-mounted V6 engine including
a new Sport Hybrid SH-AWD Super Handling All-Wheel Drive hybrid
system. Utilizing a unique Electric Motor Drive Unit with a bilateral
torque-adjustable control system, the all-new hybrid all-wheel drive
system can instantly generate negative or positive torque to the front
wheels during cornering. Acura anticipates the new Sport Hybrid
SH-AWD will deliver handling performance unmatched by previous
AWD systems. The new supercar is expected to debut in the next
three years, will be developed by an engineering team led by Honda
R&D Americas, Inc., and manufactured in Ohio. Will the new car live
up to expectation? While we loved the pure Japanese flavour of the
old NSX, we’ll reserve judgment on the North American-inspired car,
as we feel AWD-equipped supercars lack the driving excitement of
a true RWD sports car.
Huet Brothers At It Again
Cars today are technological marvels, and have the chassis hardware to match. And while the designs are truly impressive, you just
RPM Apr / May 2012
can’t beat the character of an old GT, built in the ‘50s and ‘60s, free
of the rules and regulations stipulated to manufacturers to make a
design safe and street legal. The Huet Brothers however are doing
something many of us gearheads dream of, building a modern car,
with a classic sexy old body design long since lost to bureaucracy.
Several years ago, the brothers released a retro roadster based on
a Triumph TR6, designed for use in classic rallies organized by the
Huets but also available for sale in limited quantities. Now Tino and
Paul are back with a fixed-roof coupe design they’ve been working on.
The new coupe is said to weigh a mere 1,088 kg and will be powered
by an unspecified 3.0L inline-6 mated to either a 6-speed manual or
7-speed dual clutch transmission. Sounds very BMW to us, a good
drivetrain pick that will see the 306-horsepower car reach 100 km/h
in 4.3 seconds. HB is also planning a more performance-oriented
version as well as a racing model in the future, but the brothers are
taking things one step at a time. In a novel approach to raising capital,
HB is selling wristwatches and other gear to help get the project off
the ground
Toyota And Lotus Head Back To Le Mans,
Peugeot Out
A few months ago, Porsche shocked the racing world by announcing a
full cease of its endurance racing activities. The announcement came
as a shock to racing fans as the Audi-Peugeot rivalry has created epic
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racing at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. While its days of Formula One
failure are well behind Toyota, and it is looking to up its motorsport
image once again, the Japanese manufacturer is stepping up in an
attempt to fill the top spot on the grid. During the ‘90s, the Toyota
GT1 was the class of the Le Mans 24-hour race, and now Toyota will
make its return as a full manufacturer entry, entering a hybrid-based
LMP1 car in the entire FIA World Endurance Championship schedule.
If that wasn’t good enough, another team is also making a return to
La Sarthe, as Lotus will back an independent team to run an LMP2
car on its behalf. Kodewa Racing, headed up by former HRT F1
team principal Colin Kolles and his father Romulus, will be running a
chassis built by Lola powered by a BMW V8. Nothing Lotus-related,
but the car will run with the familiar black-and-gold livery.
Volvo V40 Making Its Return?
Volvo’s compact vehicles have been in a state of flux lately in Canada.
At first there was the S40 and V40, then Volvo wanted to separate the
models on the redesign, and renamed the V40 the V50. Then Volvo
introduced the unique C30 hatch but then turned around and killed
off the V50 last year, claiming Canadians don’t like wagons. However,
they do like hatches, and
so far we’ve seen a lot of
(unauthorized) photos of
a new hatch coming out
of Goteborg, and the V40
badge has returned to its
tailgate. This, however,
is our best look yet at
the new Swedish hatch,
and beyond being one
of the most stylish bricks
released yet, it also looks
like it may pack a punch as well, looking ready to do battle with the
likes of the 1-series and A3. While Canadians don’t like wagons, they
most certainly love their hatches, and this looks as though it would
work its way into the Canadian lineup quite nicely. However, Volvo
Canada has sent us the usual return to our questions, commenting
that there are no current plans to bring the upcoming V40 to the
great white north.
10 RPM Apr / May 2012
Airbag Issues
We depend a great deal on the reliability of the airbag systems in our
vehicles to keep us safe in the event of a collision. However, it looks
as though there could be a large issue on
the horizon as The Detroit News is reporting
that The National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration is investigating a number of
vehicles for potentially faulty side airbags.
The issue stems from airbags produced
by Swedish supplier, Autoliv, may have
been manufactured with an ineffective mix
of inflation gasses, which could leave the bags flat in the event of
a collision. The defective hardware has been built into models from
Toyota, Honda, Subaru and Nissan, and has resulted in the recall
of around 2,700 units so far. If NHTSA finds the defective airbags in
other vehicles, that number could swell substantially. According to the
report, Autoliv shipped a total of 10,500 faulty inflators to manufacturers, as well as two other airbag makers. Chrysler, Ford, General
Motors, Kia and Suzuki all purchased the defective parts, though it’s
unclear exactly which models were equipped with the Autoliv pieces.
Autoliv, meanwhile, said that the company saw the problem occur
once in tests at -30-degree temperatures.
Ford Moving Full Steam Ahead With EcoBoost
To say that the EcoBoost line of engines has been successful for Ford
in the first year of their production would be an enormous understatement. As such, Ford will offer fuel-efficient EcoBoost engines in 11
vehicles in 2012, up from seven in 2011, tripling the production capacity of EcoBoost-equipped Ford vehicles with the introduction of the
new 1.6L EcoBoost engine in the Escape compact utility vehicle and
Fusion. This expanded availability in high-volume nameplates is said
to help make fuel economy more affordable for future EcoBoost owners. The EcoBoost line is capable of delivering up to 20 percent better
fuel economy than conventional engines, by turbocharging smaller
overall size engines (2.0L 4-cylinder, 3.5L 6-cylinder and now 1.6L
4-cylinder) with gasoline direct injection improving both power and
fuel economy. With ST versions of the Focus and possibly the Fiesta,
as well, expected to come online in the near future, the EcoBoost line
is quickly becoming Ford’s bread and butter for success.
STARTING LINES
THE ORIGINAL
stRoNgeR > tougheR > moRe DuRAble
SAVE
Elantra and Touareg Win AJAC
Awards
At the Canadian International Auto Show
in Toronto, the Hyundai Elantra was declared the 2012 Canadian Car of the Year
by the Automobile Journalists Association
of Canada (AJAC).
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“The all-new Elantra was simply the single
most important new vehicle that Hyundai
has ever launched,” said Steve Kelleher,
President and CEO, Hyundai Auto Canada
Corp. “The Elantra competes in Canada’s
critical compact segment, so for it to win
Canadian Car of the Year is vindication
for all the effort Hyundai designers and
engineers invested into the project. We
wanted to bring Canadians a new take on
the compact sedan; one with great style,
quality, safety and incredible fuel efficiency.
So, we couldn’t be more proud that AJAC
agreed it should win Canada’s highest automotive award.”
Also at the Toronto Show, the Volkswagen
Touareg TDI Clean Diesel was declared the
2012 Canadian Utility Vehicle of the Year.
“Winning this award is a tremendous
honour,” said John White, President of
Volkswagen Canada. “The Volkswagen
Touareg is extremely capable both on and
off road, and surrounds its passengers in
comfort and luxury. We are very pleased to
be recognized for all of the hard work our
engineers and designers have put in.”
Hyundai had a great day, as it was also
announced that the Veloster had won the
AJAC “Best New Design” award for 2012.
“The intent of the AJAC Best New Design
award is to identify and reward the vehicle
that exhibits the best balance of form and
function,” said Richard Russell, chair of
AJAC’s 2012 Canadian Car of the Year
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Big bang for
the buck
Story and photos by Russell Purcell
L
arge luxury sedans have always been regarded as a status symbol, but unfortunately, many of these premium automobiles deliver a
very unsatisfying driving experience. When Hyundai introduced the Genesis sedan for the 2009 model year, it represented the Korean
company’s first product aimed directly at the luxury car segment of the North American automotive market. While the well-equipped Genesis
proved to be a pleasant car to drive, its overall handling prowess and lack of visceral grunt left many enthusiast drivers feeling cold, even
when fitted with the company’s award-winning 4.6-litre Tau V8 engine. Luckily, the product planners at the Korean auto giant recognized
the need to spice up the big sedan and a plan was quickly put into place.
The Genesis R-Spec was born as a new offering for 2012, and as the most potent Genesis model, it should appeal to those consumers
looking for a luxurious sedan that is also fun to drive.
Under the hood you will find a very smooth, 32-valve, double-overhead-cam, 5.0-litre V8 engine that produces a healthy 429 horsepower
and 376 pound feet of torque. This is more than enough power to hustle this relatively large car from 0 to 100 km/h in just over 5 seconds
(5.3s). The Tau engine features Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) and Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (D-CVVT). This engineering
marvel is both powerful and fuel-efficient, and is mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox. This ultra-smooth transmission has been
12 At The Wheel RPM Apr / May 2012
Once alone and out on the open road, I got the chance to test the
handling dynamics of the R-Spec on some of my favourite back
roads. I was impressed with how easy it was to execute smooth,
crisp turns without unsettling the car’s balance. The level of agility
engineered into such a large car is surprising, but the sport-tuned
suspension and precise steering allowed me to execute flawless
cornering manoeuvres over and over again. Thicker front and rear
stabilizer bars and specially calibrated shocks and springs make
body roll virtually nonexistent, and the car followed the line I selected with a level of precision usually reserved for sports cars.
The car has a very elegant shape carefully crafted to help cheat
the wind, but its styling fails to set itself apart from that of its
competitors. In fact, the car looks more like a hybrid mix of styling
elements garnered from BMW, Lexus and Mercedes-Benz designs
than something original. The look is pleasing, but not distinctive.
The car’s wide stance is enhanced by the sculpted nose and tail,
both highlighted by long, slender lighting units and chrome trim.
Big, 19-inch machined alloy wheels wrapped in low-profile rubber
and twin exhaust outlets hint at the Genesis R-Spec’s performance
designed to make the most efficient use of the car’s power whether potential.
the driver is seeking to maximize fuel efficiency or induce a surge
of adrenaline through his or her system. For those drivers who The car has a very spacious cabin that at first seems to equal that
appreciate the ability to make their own gear selections, manual of its closest rivals when it comes to overall quality and fit-and-finoperation is possible using the console shifter, but surprisingly, no ish, but I did have one of the interior vents unexpectedly pop out
steering wheel paddles are on the menu.
at one point when I opened the driver’s door. It simply snapped
back in place, but it did leave me suspect about the car’s overall
Acceleration is strong and linear, but some buyers might find the build quality and long term durability. The various panels, trim
muted engine and exhaust note less aggressive than they desire. pieces, woods and plastics, however, seemed of high quality and
Under hard acceleration you notice a slight rise in the hood as the were very well executed.
car settles back on its haunches, but the car feels very stable and
planted to the road surface.
The leather seating is taut, but comfy, and the seats proved
supportive in all positions. The overall design and layout of the
I found the car’s ride to be very smooth and composed, even when passenger space is pleasing to the eye and touch and I found all
travelling over rough road surfaces. The suspension was stiff enough switchgear, gauges, and controls to be easy to find and intuitive
to transmit subtle nuances to the driver through the seat and steer- to use.
ing-wheel, and the well-insulated cabin managed to keep external
noises to a minimum. I had the opportunity to transport a wide Outward visibility is exceptional, as the car’s greenhouse features
array of esteemed passengers during my test period with the car, extra large windows and narrow roof pillars. The hood falls quickly
and all seemed to relish the tranquil environment as they enjoyed out of the driver’s view and both the side and rear-view mirrors
the leather-clad opulence that is the R-Spec’s cabin.
effectively abolish blind spots.
SPECIFICATIONS
Base price (MSRP): .................................................................................$53,499
Price as tested:........................ $55,359 (Includes: $100 A/C tax; $1,760 freight)
Type: .......................................................... 5-passenger, 4-door, full-size sedan
Layout: . .................................................................front-engine, rear-wheel-drive
Engine: . ..................................................................5.0-litre V8, DOHC, 32 valves
Horsepower:..............................................................................429 @ 6,400 rpm
Torque (lb-ft): ..........................................................................376 @ 5,000 rpm
Transmission:..................... 8-speed automatic with manual shifting capabilities
Brakes (Front/rear): . ............................................................................Disc / Disc
Curb weight:................................................................................... 1,884kg ( lbs)
Passenger Volume:................................................................................... 3,098 L
Cargo Volume:............................................................................................. 450 L
Fuel consumption (L/100km):............... City- 13.1 (22 mpg) / Hwy- 8.1 (35 mpg)
The standard Genesis sedan comes equipped with an extensive
array of comfort, convenience and safety features, but the upgrade
for the R-Spec package will set you back a further $13,500. Apart
from the potent V8 engine and silky transmission, the R-Spec
package adds adaptive HID headlights, the aforementioned
19-inch alloy wheels, chrome accents, adaptive cruise control,
Hyundai’s Lane Departure Warning System, and front and rear
parking sensors. An eight-inch, touch-screen Driver Information
System supports navigation, a back-up camera, and a multimedia
controller. Audiophiles will appreciate the 528-watt, 17-speaker
Lexicon sound system which supports AM/FM and XM broadcast
signals as well as DVDs, CDs and MP3s. A power-operated rear
sunshade, heated steering wheel and cooled driver seat complete
the comfort entries.
The Genesis R-Spec represents a great first effort for Hyundai
in the luxury performance category, but I must admit that there
is still lots of room for improvement if the car is to earn its place
among the top contenders in this category. While competitively
equipped and loaded with a full complement of safety features,
there still needs to be further refinement across the board for this
car to leap past its long list of German and Japanese rivals. One
shortcoming of note is the transmission. While it delivers crisp
and smooth gear changes, I would expect it to react a little more
quickly in this application, as the R-Spec is being marketed as a
sport minded automobile.
This criticism aside, the Hyundai Genesis R-Spec is a very capable
automobile that delivers the near perfect mix of luxury and performance demanded by picky executive types. When cross-shopped
against its many rivals, it becomes immediately evident that the
car is a relative bargain as well.
At The Wheel RPM Apr / May 2012 15
ROAD TEST - MERCEDES-BENZ C350 COUPE
Subtle and Refined
Performance
Story and photos by Gerry Frechette
experience. We drove the C250 so equipped briefly at the AJAC
Car of the Year testing, and our local tester was the C350 V6,
he sport coupe has been a mainstay of the Mercedes-Benz so we can report on the two mainstream variants of the stylish
lineup for many years, and most recently, the CLK occupied coupe.
the mid-range territory, but in a re-arranging of the model mix,
there is now both an E-Class and C-Class coupe, and the CLK A quick look at the four first. It is a 1.8-litre unit, with 201 horseis gone. With the C-Class, Mercedes is targeting a younger en- power and a flat torque curve that sees 229 lb-ft as low as 2,200
thusiast driver than it has before, but with a subtle and refined rpm, more than the V6 at that engine speed. So in the lower rev
ranges that are conducive to lower fuel consumption, the four
type of performance.
has plenty of pull, and is refined enough to make you not regret
The big news in the revised C-Class line, including the Coupe, foregoing the V6, should that be your choice. In addition, the car
is that it is now available with a turbocharged and direct-injected is lighter with the smaller engine, and feels it in terms of nimble
four-cylinder engine, along with the expected V6 and AMG V8 handling.
powerplants. The four really adds a new dimension to the driving
Having said that, the V6, also now direct-injected, is still the
enthusiast’s engine of choice in this car, as our week with the
C350 showed. It is wonderfully flexible, and gives the car a
sporting character that will satisfy most drivers, short of those
to whom nothing less than a V8 will do. Of course, the 7-speed
automatic with sport mode and paddle shifters keeps the engine
in its most-torquey rev range if the enthusiastic mood strikes, and
the run to 100 km/h takes but six seconds, quick enough for a
V6 in a car this size. There is no manual transmission available,
unlike some competitors, but I suppose that is the unfortunate
trend these days.
T
The fortunate trend is that Mercedes is a leader in electronic
suspension technology, like the Dynamic Handling Package and
Agility Control suspension on the C350. The latter is a selective
damping system that constantly adjusts between harder and
softer absorption depending on the road conditions. It is combined with the DHP, which, with the push of a button, will switch
between sport and comfort styles, adjusting the damping system
response, speed-sensitive power steering (which still feels a little
ROAD TEST - MERCEDES-BENZ C350 COUPE
every infotainment and connectivity feature imaginable is optional
in the Premium Package and obviously a must-have these days,
as is the harman/kardon LOGIC7 audio.
One option is leather seats, as, carrying on a long Mercedes tradition, the standard seat covering is Artico, formerly known as MB
Tex, and more commonly called vinyl. It is very high-quality vinyl,
indeed, that can be visually mistaken easily for leather by those
whose olfactory senses aren’t finely tuned, and it is much more
easily cleaned and maintained in the long term than leather is. Still,
as always, my first choice would be high-quality cloth, which is not
available, but I wouldn’t turn down the Artico over real leather.
No matter the upholstery, the C350 Coupe is a very worthy new entrant in a market segment populated by some of the most desirable
sports coupes in the world. Mercedes-Benz has come up with its
own unique take on the genre, one that combines subtly-expressed
light), ESP®/ASR traction control, accelerator response and the performance capabilities with strong design and technology, to apspeed of the automatic gear changes.
peal to the young urban professional.
Such technology yields a car whose driving character can be customized based on the mood of the driver at a particular moment,
something that could only be dreamed of but a few short years ago.
And, it really works as described, too. The “sport” setting is more
crisp and sharp than brutish or abrupt, as befits the C-Coupe’s role.
The “normal” setting is much more biased towards comfort and quiet
than sportiness, so the choice is a clear one for the driver.
Inside, under a roof that is some 40 mm lower than that of the CSedan, is an ambiance that Mercedes aptly describes as “lounge.”
The revised dashboard from the sedan is shared with the coupe,
and it is especially evident in the area of the centre stack, with the
pop-up navigation screen and the vast expanses of black plastic
replaced by a more integrated and upscale look. There aren’t many
luxury options on a C350, as such niceties as panoramic sunroof
and power-everything are included. The COMAND interface with
SPECIFICATIONS
Base price (MSRP):.............................................................................. $49,200
Type:....................................................................... 2-door, 4-passenger coupe
Layout:................................................................ Front engine/rear-wheel drive
Engine:.................................................................................................. 3.5L V6
Transmission:................................................................................ 7-speed auto
Power:.................................................................................................... 302 hp
Torque:........................................................................... 273 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm
Curb weight:........................................................................................ 1,540 kg
0-100 km/h:........................................................................................... 6.0 sec.
Brakes:........................................................... Vented discs, front and rear, ABS
Fuel Economy (L/100km, city/hwy):.................................................... 10.9 / 7.0
FIRST DRIVE - 2013 MAZDA CX-5
Mazda CX-5
Not Your Average Grocery Getter
Story and photos by David Symons
Additional photos by David Dewhurst
W
clean, so that we could design everything such that it can all work together, as opposed to compromising by fitting new parts onto older pieces …as has been
done in the past”. A
philosophy in design
that we would later
learn…clearly has
paid dividends.
hen first approached about attending the test event for Mazda’s
new CX-5 (featuring Skyactiv technology), I must confess to not
understanding their reasoning for the choice of venue. Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca (the tracks namesake notwithstanding) seemed
an odd choice for showcasing Mazda’s latest entry into the mid-size
crossover market. Wouldn’t taking it someplace up country with a little
bit of light off-roading be more appropriate to this particular offering. Skyactiv technology
Well two flights, a lost bag and a day of testing later – that question in a nutshell: is focused on squeezing
would be answered.
the maximum effiAt mornings light we were off to the famed track. Mazda Raceway ciency from existing
Director of Technobabble: Dave Coleman
Laguna Seca, used for both car and motorcycle racing, was originally technologies…withconstructed in 1957 near Monterey, California. The current racetrack out compromise. Something they take very seriously. The goal was to
is 3.602 km (2.238 miles) in length with a 91 m (300 foot) elevation create the highest compression ‘production’ gasoline engines (13:1)
change, and boy does that ever come into play when driving this in the world that would operate at peak efficiency with increased
historic circuit. It has eleven turns, including the famous “Corkscrew” power…while sipping at 87 proof octane. Creating compact and lightweight transmissions that would actually match automatic downshift
at Turns 8 and 8A (more on that later).
rev’s (something usually afforded only premium sport cars) was the
Before getting near any of the gaggle of both front wheel and all-wheel goal. Better steering and handling were also high on the must do list,
drive configured CX- as was gleaning off 100kgs (220lbs). ‘Obsessive attention to detail’
5’s assembled there would prove the prevailing theme throughout Dave’s delivery. At one
for our testing, we point Dave passed around re-designed bolts with trimmed heads that
were treated to a afforded exactly the same standards in quality. A savings of 8 grams per
briefing. I say treat- bolt was the net result, which on its
ed, because this own doesn’t seem that big of a deal,
truly was an informa- but when multiplied by the number
tive session. While of these bolts used throughout the
there were several entire vehicle, it adds up to.. well…
presenters, I think an obsessive attention to detail. But
Obsessive attention to detail
it would be fair to it is exactly this type of detail that
say that none were Mazda wants consumers to understand that goes into separating it
more entertaining in from others competing in the segment.
explanation of Mazda’s newest technology coined Skyactiv, than the
self titled, Director of Technobabble, North American Operations: Dave Body design and styling of the CX-5 was taken equally seriously by the
Coleman. As Dave put it; “Skyactiv is really about clearing the slate design team. The designs theme is called “Kodo” or soul of motion as
FIRST DRIVE - 2013 MAZDA CX-5
the Japanese have coined it. What they’ve done with the CX-5 is push
the A-pillar back somewhat, the byproduct of which gives it an elongated
sweep to the hood with a tightening of the roof line that concludes into
a rear spoiler. Creased metal harmoniously melds into softer edges,
which manages to capture this sense of motion, while doors panels
integrating slimmer B and C Pillars result in producing good site lines.
A more aggressive rear stance, coupled with a new 5 point grille up
front, results in an overall and welcomed edgier look.
Inside, the attention to detail continues with a cockpit that is as welcoming for piloting around the track (you know for all those times CX-5
owners will be track testing their new vehicles) as it is driving to the
soccer pitch with the kids. Well appointed interior highlights include:
soft touch material used on the top side of the dash, accented with
piano black panels and bars finished in satin chrome. The electric
powered steering is made all the more enjoyable by the inclusion of a
good sized sport steering wheel. Well placed gage clusters offer good
readability. Having driven the CX-5 now in several situations, I can tell
you that the cockpit maintains its comfort level throughout each.
Driving situation number one: Our group was first to the autocross
area where we were given instruction from the very capable Skip
Barber driving instructors. For those unfamiliar, autocross is simply
attempting to pilot a vehicle as quickly and smoothly as possible
through a course set up with pylons on a large asphalt surface. Think
Walmart minus a whole mess of buggies and badly parked cars. This
was my first clue that these were not your average grocery getters!
Three wheeling when carving some corners a tad too tightly, drifting
around others - the handling feeling silky smooth when nailing it…
mered it through this
most famous of track
corners, but…let’s just
say I made it through
with reasonable speed
while staying on the
track each time I came
around…..which for me
spelt victory. My steed
never complained, nor
for that matter seemed
to be out of place. That
said, the CX-5 in more capable hands made its way through and around
the famed track in times that a sports car would be proud of.
Driving situation number three proved interestingly enough – the most
challenging and perhaps most fun. This was the road test portion. It
was decided that I would follow Mazda PR Team (and obvious driving
enthusiast) Chuck Reimer on a 75km run through the countryside of
the Monterey/Carmel Valley area. The first portion of the drive was
fairly pedestrian. Then things got interesting. I probably should have
suspected what was in store when with a glint in his eye and a roguish
grin, Chuck asked if I wanted to take the route back ‘at speed’? My
response: “I’ll be right behind you.” Well a better twisty road I have not
driven…and at ‘speed’ it became rally circuit like! Undulating roads
with narrow passages, blind corners with hedge cropped walls on
either side, cattle grates, bridges, hills…yes this was driving fun at
its best. Only once was I forced to stop and that was at the behest of
a farm dog that wanted to prove who was boss. Clearly he was.
proved much fun! Suffice to say it got a tad competitive among some of
the scribes. One certainly didn’t want be known as a cone masher! All
in all, the autocross course proved a great warm-up for the track.
Driving situation number two: Now for those unfamiliar with Mazda
Raceway Laguna Seca, there is a six story drop in elevation from the
high point of the track to the straightaway. The descent starting at a little
area they’ve fittingly named: the “Corkscrew”. Well isn’t it aptly named
indeed! My first clue that it would provide a challenge to navigate was
when my driving instructor said to look for the most famous tree in
motorsport racing when I was about to crest this hill - and never mind
what the road was doing! Just point the car directly at it, and trust that
everything will be fine…. Un huh. Well what happens is that there is
an immediate jog to the left that then as the name implies, corks very
sharply to the right… before compelling you to take another left. You
have to point the car in a
straight line at the tree,
thus cutting through the
turns (much like mogul
skiing when not looking for
air) … so you don’t go flailI remember at one point thinking what a blast it was to be driving these
ing off the track! Well, I’d
“performance cars” on such ideal roads…..then I remembered what it
love to say that your scribe
was I was driving, and all at once I understood their reasoning. This
was fearless and hamkind of attention to detail has certainly paid dividends for Mazda.
FEATURE - PORSCHE CAMP4 CANADA
The fleet assembled for this year’s Camp4
included the Porsche 997 Carrera4 GTS
Cabriolet, the Cayman S, and the star of the
show, the all new 2012 Porsche 991 Carrera
S. All cars were fitted with Porsche’s lightningquick PDK automatic transmission so that
the drivers are free to focus on mastering
their steering and pedal inputs rather than
worrying about manual gear selection and
clutch operation.
Innovative Driving
School Embraces
Winter Chill
Story and photos by Russell Purcell
W
inter is usually the season when automotive enthusiasts work on their
cars to prepare them for spring and summer motoring, but Porsche
wants to change that, and convince the owners of its venerable sports cars that
they are as much fun to play with in the snow as they are on the pavement.
The concept of Porsche’s Camp4 can trace its roots back 16 years to the
chilly nation of Finland, where a group of curious Porsche owners assembled
to test the cold weather capabilities of their precious machines. The event
proved a resounding success, and Camp4 was born. The name Camp4
is derived from Carrera4, the all-wheel drive variant of the 911 which was
first introduced to the public in the winter school setting. Porsche continues
to operate Camp4 Finland and it now hosts as many as 1,500 students
each year.
Last year, a second Camp4 took shape at a little known motor sport facility
(Mecaglisse) in Notre-Dame de la Merci. Tucked into the wilderness just
north of Montreal, Mecaglisse is comprised of two purpose-built tracks
and a large pair of icy skid pads. Loosely modelled after the Finland effort,
Camp4 Canada will help 180 lucky customers discover how much fun you
can have while exploring the inherent instability of winter driving in a highperformance automobile.
Upon arrival at Mecaglisse, your eyes are not drawn to the Porsche flags
rippling in the air, or the sinuous ice-capped track slinking through the trees.
Instead, your gaze is captured by the three rows of Porsche automobiles
lined up in echelon formation in the chilly paddock.
Porsche Camp4 Canada maintains a fleet of 30 student cars that have
been equipped with high-performance Nokian winter tires festooned with
1.5mm studs. These special shoes help the cars find the elusive traction
needed to put power to the ground, which just so happens to be capped
with a slippery mix of ice and snow.
The day begins with a brief classroom lecture
where students are introduced to the Camp4
curriculum. The students are reminded of the
basic elements of vehicle dynamics, including
the principles of oversteer and understeer, and
how the physics change when travelling over
snow and ice. The basic elements of proper
car control are also examined including the
importance of driver vision as well as when to
apply driver inputs such as braking, steering,
and acceleration.
A quick overview of the facility, track configurations and schedule of events
is followed by a tutorial regarding the operation of the car’s traction and
stability control systems.
The goal is to equip the guests with the necessary knowledge and skill set to
better handle a car on icy roads, a process that can only be honed through
hands-on training behind the wheel in the relative safety of a controlled
environment.
The 30 students are then divided into three teams, and each group is assigned an instructor and a spotter. Once paired up with a driving partner,
you are escorted to the paddock and assigned a car.
The schedule divides the day into three activities, each designed to introduce students to the outer limits of traction and control in an effort to help
them recognize the moment when traction is lost. Through instruction and
behind-the-wheel practice, the students are taught what steps to take to
regain control, and what inputs they can make to keep the car progressing
safely forward rather than off the road.
These skills should help drivers become more confident in their winter
driving skills. More experienced drivers can sign-up to attend Camp4S, a
more advanced course which is also offered at the Mecaglisse facility, where
speed and technical difficulty are increased accordingly.
Activity One - Porsche 991 Carrera S
My first activity found me behind the wheel of the all-new 991 doing my best
to learn how to drift the slinky, white beast through the technical corners of
a high-speed, snow-covered track. The new car has a longer wheelbase, a
significantly lower suspension, and a wider track. These technical changes
have given the new car an enhanced level of stability which helps inspire
confidence in the car’s lucky driver.
The Camp4 cars all come fitted with high-performance, studded, winter
FEATURE - PORSCHE CAMP4 CANADA
tires to prevent slippage, but it is nice to know that should you get too far
over your head, the fluffy snow banks will cushion the impact and save the
car’s precious bodywork from any major damage. This allowed me to push
myself a little outside my comfort zone so that I could experience the exact
point where traction is lost and then employ my newfound skills to regain
control of the car.
would make me nervous enough to lift off the throttle or overcorrect my
steering, and I would end up looping the car. Again, a second day of instruction and practice would probably help me overcome this hurdle.
While dancing on the pedals and working hard to master the art of the
controlled drift, it became evident that finding the correct line around this
technical track was the real challenge. Having a second day to practise at
each station would definitely shorten the learning curve.
If winter driving makes you nervous, consider attending Camp4 next
season as you will emerge with a better understanding of what it takes
to maintain control of your vehicle when the going gets slippery, and
the skills you learn will go a long way in helping you stay safe on the
road. It’s also a heck of a lot of fun!
My Camp4 experience was a condensed one, as the media event I
attended provided a sampling of the course curriculum over a single
day. The standard Camp4 experience is comprised of two days of
I never found the perfect balance required to maintain my speed over a com- training and classes are limited to 30 participants. I should also point
plete lap, but with a little more practice I am sure it would come. Participants out that there is a minimum age requirement of 21 years.
receive constant instruction from the instructors via radio, but I also benefited
from coaching from my more experienced driving partner.
Unfortunately, Camp4 Canada is closed for the 2012 season, but this
just means that you have time to put some money aside to attend
The wider torque curve of the 991 made it easy to plow through deeper snow during the 2013 edition next February. This year’s two-day Camp4
when my lines became a little wide and the much improved braking system experience cost $4,995 plus applicable taxes, which seems reasonensured I was able to draw in the reins when my enthusiasm outmatched able when you realize that it includes three nights accommodation
my driving abilities.
(and meals) at the Esterel Suites Spa & Lake Resort, transfers to
and from the track, the use of the school cars, and instruction and
The all-new electric power steering provided just enough assistance to refreshments at the Mecaglisse facility.
reduce the amount of effort required by the driver, but at no time did I feel
any substantial loss of feel. In fact, it seems to enhance the level of steer- The people who tend to purchase Porsche automobiles are those
ing precision.
individuals who like to drive. The truth is that few cars even come close
to the handling and performance offered by the German company’s
The new car’s sport bucket seats seemed infinitely adjustable, and did an iconic machines.
excellent job of holding me in place.
Camp4 was created to teach Porsche owners how to safely handle
Activity Two - Porsche Cayman S
their precious automobiles in inclement winter weather conditions.
The second event of the day found me behind the wheel of Porsche’s han- The last place most people would expect to see a high-performance
dling dynamo, the Cayman S. The goal was to tackle an oval-shaped track sports car is on a snow and ice-covered roadway in the middle of
which featured several elevation changes, blind corners, and a tight slalom. winter, but after spending the day at camp, it became immediately
The mid-engine design of the Cayman gives it a balance that translates into apparent that Porsches are so well balanced and engineered that
predictable handling on a dry stretch of asphalt, but on an undulating surface with a proper winter tire, these sporting machines make excellent
of ice and snow it took several laps to reacquire this natural balance.
four-season chariots.
Activity Three- Porsche Carrera4 GTS Cabriolet
The final event of the day took place at the skid pad. While drifting
looks like a breeze when you see it on television, it proves a challenging task when faced with the irregular surface of a snow-covered
skid pad, especially while being pursued by a second car! The 997
Carrera4 GTS Cabriolet is the weapon of choice for this session, as it
features an all-new all-wheel drive system that is capable of sending
up to 100-percent of the car’s power to the front wheels. This allows
the students to learn the intricacies of Porsche’s torque vectoring-plus
system which allows the transfer of power side-to-side depending on
where the system’s sensors detect the most grip, which helps push
the car through the corners.
I found this exercise the hardest to master, as maintaining a controlled
drift around the full circle proved difficult due to my inability to hold a
line tight enough to avoid getting too close to the perimeter wall. This
CAR CARE FEATURE
Let the
Sun Shine
Story by Jordan Allan
City Garage. Uses the best beeswax on the planet combined
with oil-replenishing lanolin. Voodoo Blend even smells like real
ith Spring sprung and Summer just around the corner, leather and also works great on vinyl and plastic.
all car enthusiasts are anxious to shake off the dust and
cobwebs (or sleet, snow and grime for whom those enthusiasts Dash Away® Interior Detailer
who drive their rides year round) and show off their particular (24oz spray bottle)
sources of automotive pride. That said, we felt that the time Dash Away® Interior Detailer from Surf City Gawas right for providing a look at some of the countless number rage is the enthusiasts’ secret to making your inteand variety of car care products available on the market today. rior look like new and keeping it that way. Cleans
We’ve chosen a variety here to give you a head start on nar- and protects all your interior surfaces – carpet,
rowing down the field somewhat as we take a look at what’s vinyl, fabric, leather, cloth and plastic, while
eliminating odors. Never, ever leaves a greasy
current in car care products available today.
film, unlike other brands’ petroleum formulas that
Barrier Reef® Spray Wax (20oz spray bottle) leave a greasy, slippery surface.
Get a show car shine in seconds with Surf City
Garage’s Enthusiast Grade® Barrier Reef® Spray Ducan Black Tornado
Wax, the easiest, fastest way to get the ultimate pro- The Black Tornado interior cleaning tool from Ducan is a pneutection with a #1 Brazilian Carnauba shine. Spray matically operated
on and wipe off without the wax haze that many suction spray gun
that very finely atcompetitors’ products leave behind.
omises soap, water
Advanced technology lifts dirt and dust
and air and then
so your paint can’t get scratched.
can dispense it under high pressure. It
V o o d o o
B l e n d ™
L e a t h easily removes dirt
er Rejuvenator (16oz bottle)
and grime while beExtend the life of your new leather or vinyl interior
ing quieter yet more
– or bring your old, dry, cracked leather back from
powerful than the
the dead – with Voodoo Blend™ Leather RejuvenaTornado Classic.
tor, another Enthusiast Grade® product from Surf
W
CAR CARE FEATURE
Autoglym Perfect Palm
Applicator
The Perfect Palm Applicator from Autoglym is
a unique way to enhance the ease of use of
a wide range of Autoglym products. The ‘self
grip’ characteristics will improve efficiency
and comfort while the lightweight design will
ensure rapid and even coverage of product
to further improve performance.
Autoglym Super Resin Polish
Autoglyms Super Resin Polish will provide an
exceptionally high gloss shine to all types and
colours of auto paint. The polish contains specialized emulsifiers and conditioners to gently
clean and condition paintwork. Low molecular
weight resins harden and bond to provide protection as well as cosmetic effect.
and also protecting it against harmful elements. A precision applicator will be able to reduce any messy overspray.
Tu r t l e Wa x P re m i u m G r a d e
Scratch Repair Kit
Removing scratches and paint chips
from vehicles is now a breeze with
Turtle Wax’s Premium Grade Scratch
Repair Kit. The kit features a precision
clear coat pen that will make scratch
repair fool-proof. For deep scratches
the kit can be used in conjunction
with touch up paints, and provides
step-by-step instructions for at home
repair.
Permatex
Introduces
Rain-X®
Rain-X® improves driving visibility by
sealing microscopic pores in the glass
with a non-stick invisible barrier. Applying Rain-X® Original Glass Treatment to
your windshield and water beads up and
slides off as if by magic.
Shining Monkey Seal & Protect Treatment
Shining Monkey’s Seal & Protect Treatment is
a 1-step application that does not require you
to wait for the product to dry or haze before
removing it. Instead, it bonds immediately to
the paint surface and disappears as you are
applying it. The treatment will condition your
paint by sealing in a deep glass like finish
and will also protect it from harmful UV rays Eagle One Enviroshine
Eagle One’s new EnviroShine will produce the same results of
and harsh elements.
regular Eagle One but has an exclusive formula that’s safe for
D o m i n i o n S u re S e a l M i c ro F i b e r the environment. EnviroShine products are able to perform to
the highest standards without the harmful phosphates, acids or
Towel
petroleum solvents that are found in other Car Care products.
The Micro Fiber Towel from Dominion
Sure Seal is a soft cleaning or polishing cloth that is made from the highest
quality materials. It is 16” x 24” in
size and can be used to clean or dry
almost anything. Plus, it is completely
machine washable so it can be used
hundreds of times.
Meguiar’s Heavy Duty Headlight Restoration Kit
Meguiar’s Heavy Duty Headlight Restoration Kit is an easy solution to repair
severely weathered headlights to keep
them looking like new for longer. The kit
is a safe and effective hand sanding and
machine polishing system that will restore
optical clarity to heavily oxidized, yellow,
3M Lens Renewal Kit
and scratched headlights.
3M’s Lens Renwal Kit restores the clarity of yellowed, hazed, or dull headlight
Armor All Fierce Shine Tire
lenses. The kit contains masking tape,
Foam
sanding discs, a polishing pad with comWith Armor All’s new Fierce Shine Tire Foam, users
pound, and is made for use with a drill.
are able to simply spray on and walk away. Once
The kit can also be used on other plastic
sprayed on the tires, intense foaming action powers
lens surfaces on your vehicle.
right through the dirt to give a brilliant high gloss shine,
CONFIDENCE.
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Find out about all of our offers at www.continentaltire.ca
2012 PERFORMANCE TIRE GUIDE
swaying too far away from those design specifications can lead to your
vehicle not handling or performing the way it was designed to. Although,
some small variations in sizing are justifiable in order to help increase
performance by increasing traction (i.e. - wider tires will give you a bigger
footprint which will help with traction), but just like with shoes, you don’t
want to stray too far from your actual shoe size as it will eventually hit
the threshold where it starts to negatively affect the way your shoes, or
tires, will perform. What I’m really trying to say is that if you want your
vehicle to feel right, it needs the right sized “shoes.”
Tires. Just like
shoes, but for cars
By Arch Linsao
A
nyone who knows me, knows that i’ve got a deep and profound
love for... shoes. Seriously, I love shoes. Some people say I have a
problem. As much as I try to disagree, I can’t. They’re right. And even
I can admit that I’ve got a bit of an issue when it comes to shoes, and
in particular, collecting them. It was this obsession that gave me the
inspiration to write what you’re about to read.
Looks is a tough one, both for shoes and tires. I mean, of course you want
your tires to look good. And looks are really objective, because everyone
has preferences for what they want their tires to look like. But you can’t
really go choosing your tire by looks alone. Just because a certain tire
looks good or has a good looking tread pattern doesn’t necessarily mean
it’s going to perform the way YOU want it to perform, or the way YOUR
vehicle needs it to perform. Put it this way; I’d love it if my cool-looking
casual sneakers performed the way my high-tech running/training shoes
did. But the reality of it is that they don’t. So if I’m going to go running, I
know what shoes I’m going to pick. So really, just because a tire looks
really good in your eyes, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s going to do what
you want it to when you’re in the driver seat and you put your right foot
to the floor. So try not to rely on the looks too much. Not to bring up the
old cliche, but looks can be deceiving.
Ok, so now to the last and most important piece of the puzzle: Performance. Really though, the one most important thing we want from our
tires is that they perform. And as I’ve been talking about, there are a lot
of factors that go into the tire’s ability to do just that. But the biggest factor
that affects a tire’s ability to perform is whether or not we chose the right
tire for the performance that we require. Different tires perform differently,
some better than others, some more suited to specific conditions than
others. It’s just like shoes. You’re not going to run a marathon in stiletto
heels, so why would you race your performance vehicle on all-season
tires. Or conversely, why would you put race tires on your street vehicle
that you never race? What I’m trying to say is that you’ve got to choose a
performance tire that suits the level of performance you and your vehicle
require. Just because a certain tire is the “best” rated performance tire on
the market doesn’t mean it’s going to be the best tire for you. Because
you may need a different level of performance than that particular tire will
offer. The same way you’d choose a pair of shoes based on what you
need from that particular shoe. The best way to do this is to talk to your
tire expert. And more importantly, be very open and honest with your tire
expert. Tell them exactly what you expect to do with your tires and your
vehicle. The same way you would tell a shoe salesman what you want
out of a shoe in order to have them recommend the best shoe for you,
let the tire expert recommend the best tire to suit your needs.
It was Saturday morning. Just a regular Saturday morning. Nothing
special going on that day. And as I stood in front of my closet, staring
at the shoe-box filled abyss, I was faced with my usual dilemma: “What
shoes do I wear today?” In order to answer this question, I go through a
specific thought process. And it was during that thought process where
it hit me. I realized that some of the questions I ask myself when I decide
what shoes to wear, or buy for that matter, are the same questions I
ask myself when I decide what tires to buy. Now stay with me, I know
it sounds far fetched, but there is a connection.
Now I may sound like a bit of a broken record when I talk about performance tires, and more specifically when I talk about buying the right
Just think about it. When you pick a pair of shoes, you want certain performance tire to suit your needs and your vehicle requirements. Basithings from them. You want them to feel good, look good, be the right cally, since I’ve said it in every single Performance Tire Guide I’ve ever
size and right fit. And most of all, you want them to perform. Now, the written. But there’s a big reason for this. And that reason is because I still
level of “performance” you need from those shoes depends on what type get calls just about every day from a customer who wasn’t happy with
of shoes you’re buying and what you’re using them for. But no matter their previous tires. And nine times out of ten, the reason that customer
what situation or specific purpose, those shoes have to perform the way isn’t happy with their tires is because they’ve purchased the wrong
you need them to in order for you to be happy and satisfied with your tires for what their driving style and vehicle require. They basically just
choice. Aren’t these the exact same things we ask for of our tires? Do bought that particular tire because they were told it was a good tire. The
you see the connection yet? Do you see what I did there?
one thing thing they didn’t do is tell their previous tire expert what kind
of driver they were and what they wanted out of their tire. The fact that
If not, I’ll break it down a bit further for you. Let’s start with the easy ones: they didn’t supply their tire expert with enough information didn’t allow
size, fit and feel. The reason why I refer to them as “the easy ones” is this: for their tire expert to make an appropriate recommendation. So until
Shoe size and fitment are both dictated by the size of your feet. Similarly, the day comes that I no longer hear from customers who got recomtire size and fitment will be dictated by your vehicle and its requirements. mended the wrong tire, I’ll continually preach the same sermon. Talk to
Size and fit are also directly related to how your shoes and your tires will your tire expert!!!
feel. It’s simple really. If your shoes don’t fit right, they won’t feel right.
Same goes for your tires. If you sway too far from the sizing your vehicle It all comes down to this parting thought: If you want to optimize your
was designed for, your incorrectly sized tires will negatively affect your vehicle’s ability to perform, you’ve got to buy it the right “shoes.” And
vehicle’s “feel.” Your vehicle was designed with certain tires in mind, and trust me, because I know shoes.
Reward yourself
Save up to
80 on select sets of 4
$
The drive should be part of the fun. With Toyo Tires you enjoy quality and performance
all in one tire. And for a limited time get the added value of up to $80 on select sets of
passenger or light truck tires. Toyo Tires… engineered for the real world.
R E B A T E
O F F E R
toyotires.ca
E N D S
J U N E
2
N D
,
2 0 1 2
Race: g-Force R1, g-Force Drag Radial
Summer: g-Force T/A KDW, g-Force Sport
All-season: g-Force Super Sport A/S
BFG has some great options to fit everyone’s needs, from the track to the street. And in the past few years they’ve
become quite affordable as well. Using the same technology as Michelin, its higher-end premium parent company,
you can be sure to get a great quality tire at a great price. There are two summer options in this lineup, starting
at the g-Force Sport which is a good option for a spirited driver looking for something that performs well but still
gets decent tread life. The g-Force T/A KDW is a more extreme tire offering exceptional performance in both dry
and wet conditions. Its stiffer casing and sidewall design give you great lateral stability and turn-in response. BFG
also offers an all-season high performance tire called the g-Force SuperSport A/S. This is a great wet weather
tire offering much longer wear than the g-Force Sport but still providing excellent performance and handling. And
for the weekend racers, the g-Force R1 provides predictable grip character that’s easy to drive at the limit, and
confidence-inspiring for the quickest lap times in amateur road race competition. Pictured: g-force T/A KDW
Summer: Potenza RE050A Pole Position, Potenza
S001, Potenza S-04 Pole Position, Potenza RE-11
All-season: Potenza RE970 A/S Pole Position,
Potenza G019 GRID
Bridgestone freshens its performance lineup by building on an already packed line of high-performance summer
and all-season tires. They truly feature something for every type of driver. From the extreme RE-11 which combines
a unique new sidewall shape and radical new “stealth” block derived from Formula One race tires to provide significant grip and handling for both street and track, to the new S-04 Pole Position which draws on Bridgestone’s vast
experience in premier motorsports and partnerships with some of the world’s finest automakers to help unleash your
high-performance vehicle’s full potential. It features a silica-rich performance compound molded into an advanced
asymmetric tread pattern that delivers confident wet and dry performance, while its continuous interlocking centre rib
and large stiff outer shoulder blocks contribute to enhanced responsiveness and cornering. Throw the new all-season
Potenza RE790 into the mix with its blend of ultra-high performance handling and the added benefits of enhanced
wear and all-season traction, and you’ve got a lineup of tires that has an offering for everyone.
Pictured: Potenza S-04 Pole Position
Summer: ExtremeContact DW, ContiSportContact 5P
All-season: ExtremeContact DWS
Continental’s latest innovation, the ContiSportContact 5P is a high-performance tire that offers maximum safety
and driving pleasure for highly-tuned cars. The ContiSportContact 5P is individually adjusted to meet the specific
requirements of the front and rear axle positions. With precise steering and maximum grip under all conditions, the
vehicle’s perform to their full potential on the road. The ContiSportContact 5P doesn’t only go fast – it stops fast too. It
is therefore recommended by leading experts. The ExtremeContact DWS features improved grip and braking in both
dry and wet conditions with a unique asymmetrical tread design. This tire includes an advanced tread compound for
improved traction in all-weather conditions including snow, significantly improved mileage, and an industry-leading
level of rolling resistance for better fuel economy. The ExtremeContact DW has pushed the envelope in performance
with completely new technology exclusive to Continental Tire. The ExtremeContact DW delivers excellent traction
and responsive handling in both wet and dry conditions, improved ride comfort, all while delivering better mileage at
industry leading rolling resistance levels.
Pictured: ExtremeContact DWS
Summer: Direzza Sport Z1 Star Spec, Sport Maxx TT,
Direzza DZ101
All-season: SP Sport Signature
Dunlop offers performance tires ranging from a moderate performing summer tire to a track-capable street
tire, with options in between as well. Using enhanced tread designs, Jointless Band Technologies and
enhanced tread compounds, Dunlop is able to provide tires with exceptional handling and traction for any
level of vehicle/driver. The Direzza DZ101 is an excellent tire for moderately aggressive driving whereas
the Direzza Sport Z1 Star Spec is able to be competitive on the track as well as more than capable on the
street. The Sport Maxx TT features DuPont Kevlar in the tire construction to enhance road feedback and
driving precision, thus providing the driver with more confidence in precise handling situations.
Pictured: Direzza Sport Z1 Star Spec
Summer: FK452, Azenis RT615K
All-season: Ziex ZE502, Ziex ZE912, Azenis PT722 A/S
Falken has been able to provide a line of competitive products that are also well-priced and available to a large market
of consumers. Their tires are also highly rated and compared to premium brands as well. The lineup begins with a very
affordable all-season high performance tire in the Ziex ZE-912. The Consumer Reports top-rated tire offers excellent wet
weather performance while also being comfortable and able to hold up to a bit of spirited driving as well. For the even more
value-minded consumer, the Ziex ZE502 offers muti-purpose, year-round dependability at an affordable price. Falken
adds the Azenis PT722 to its all-season performance line, offering a deep tread depth and long lateral grooves for antihydroplaning and stability in the wet. The asymmetric tread provides comfort, and tread wear indicators regularly inform
drivers of proper rotation timing, thus maximizing wear. For the more enthusiastic, there is the FK452 which features five
linear ribs and three-dimensional rounded tread blocks that offer increased lateral stability and turn-in response. Its new
silica compound and multi-angled grooves significantly improve wet weather traction while minimizing wear. And for even
more abuse, Falken offers its Azenis RT-615K, a street-legal motorsports and DOT approved track competition tire. It’s a
tough, durable, street-sensible tire that’s a great match for the autocross, time attack or drift competition. This is a result of
its solid centre rib, new proprietary casing design, bead apex and turn-up technology. And the new 8/32nd tread depth
and optimized aqua tusk allow for better tread adhesion at it delivers ample wet grip performance. Pictured: FK452
All-season: G-MAX AS-03, Altimax HP
General Tire has a very well-rounded entry in the performance tire market. The G-MAX AS-03 is a dominant
all-season ultra-high performance tire that delivers precise response in dry and wet conditions. Featuring
interocking treadblocks which work together to improve handling and reduce heat for increased tread life,
Replacement Tire Monitors and Visual Alignment Indicators aid in detecting tire wear and visually alert the
driver of any misalignment. The Altimax HP offers high performance without sacrificing tread life, road noise
and ride comfort, using Acoustic Modulation Sound Technology to reduce tire noise and a twin cushion
silica tread compound in order to deliver extraordinary ride comfort.
Pictured: G-MAX AS-03
Summer: Eagle F1 Supercar G:2, Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2
All-season: Eagle F1 All-Season
Goodyear has been able to offer outstanding and well-rounded tires through the use of new technologies. The Eagle F1 all-season features carbon fibre
reinforced sidewalls, multi-zone tread compounds and Tredlock technologies in order to provide a superior handling tire with crisp responsiveness
and manoeuvrability while offering excellent dry and wet traction. This equates to an excellent-handling all-season tire with exceptional treadwear.
The Eagle F1 Asymmetric offers Active CornerGrip Technology and an asymmetrical tread design for commanding dry grip and a Water-Shedding
Inner Tread Zone to aid in wet traction. The Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 features Goodyear ActiveBraking Technology to enhance stopping performance in
both the wet and dry. Combining Goodyear race traction resins for dry grip, high surface silica for wet traction and high molecular weight polymers
to optimize read stiffness makes this tire the ideal choice for any high-performance car. To take it a step further, the Eagle F1 Supercar G:2 offers
legendary supercar performance in a race-inspired tire featuring an asymmetrical and directional tread design with massive outboard tread blocks
to help enhance dry cornering grip. Sweeping Aquachannel Grooves on the inboard side help enhance wet cornering grip. And the innovative
multi-radius mold shape helps offer precise handling and smooth, even wear.
Pictured: Eagle F1 Supercar G:2
Summer: Ventus V12 Evo, Ventus R-S3
All-season: Ventus V2 Concept, Ventus V4es H105
Hankook is another tire company that is able to offer an outstanding and competitive range of products
at an affordable price. Designed for those with a passion for performance, Ventus V2 Concept’s directional tread pattern and compound provide excellent handling, all-season traction and extended tread
life. The innovative “Twister System” 3D Wave Pattern Channel forcibly removes water from the tread
contact patch for improved driving in wet conditions and greater control. The Ventus V4es combines
technologies in profile design, construction, tread pattern and compound that provide excellent handling
in all weather conditions and exceptional tread wear. The Ventus V12 Evo takes these characteristics to
another level by also featuring increased control and braking to provide a summer tire fully capable of
handling anything that its user can throw at it. For those wanting to take their cars to the track, Hankook
has taken the successful Ventus R-S2 and redesigned it, creating the Ventus R-S3. Hankook’s Racing Carbonblack Silica Compound has been incorporated to offer a tire that can meet the demands of
autocross, drifting and track competitors.
Pictured: Ventus V2 Concept
Summer: Ecsta XS, Ecsta LE Sport, Ecsta SPT,
Ecsta V710
All-season: Ecsta ASX, Ecsta AST, Ecsta 4X
Kumho also offers tires ranging from an all-season performance option to a street-legal race tire and everything in between, all at competitive prices. Kumho has always pushed the envelope of design and technology, offering coloured
smoke tires and scented tires, just to give a couple of examples. They’ve used this technology to develop a widespread line of tires to try to appeal to all consumers. The Ecsta ASX is an excellent high-performance all-season with
excellent wear and exceptional wet weather traction. The Ecsta AST is a more affordable all-season tire designed for
smaller sport compacts and imports. The Ecsta SPT is a very capable high-performance summer tire with exceptional
handling and dry traction while also offering longer wear than some other tires in its class. And the new Ecsta XS is
its extreme performance tire designed for drivers who want more from their tire both on the street and on the track.
And you can’t mention track without mentioning the Ecsta V710. This DT-approved Competition Racing tire provides
extreme traction and unequaled handling characteristics, while also outlasting other brands, which makes it a great
value.
Pictured: Ecsta XS
Summer: Pilot Sport PS2, Pilot Sport Cup, Pilot
Sport 3, Pilot Super Sport
All-season: Pilot Sport A/S Plus, Pilot Exalto A/S
Michelin is a world -lass tire manufacturer. And its offerings in the high-performance category are part of the reason why. It offers
both a high performance all-season tire and a high performance summer tire, both under the Pilot family of tires designed for highend sports cars, coupes and sedans. The Pilot Sport All-Season Plus combines class-leading all-weather performance, wet grip, and
treadlife without any compromise to its dry performance and handling capabilities. All of this is achieved using Michelin’s TriFusion
Compound that combines different compounds over the treadface of the tire in an effort to optimize the full tread surface of the tire.
And for those who aren’t concerned with wear but want unrivaled dry and wet traction and best-in-class cornering, the Pilot Sport
PS2 definitely does not disappoint. Designed as original equipment on premium ultra-high performance sports cars, the Pilot®
Sport 3 provides a balance of tread life, fuel efficiency and road-gripping performance.The Pilot Sport Cup, for those who want a
street legal, competition ready tire, offers extreme cornering grip and consistent lap times, yet is DOT-approved. Its newest offering,
the Pilot Super Sport, boasts better handling and better braking than any of its competitors, and is also offering the longest treadwear
warranty on a summer ultra-high performance tire, rated at 55,000km.
Pictured: Pilot Super Sport
Summer: NT555, Invo, NT05,
All-season: NeoGen, Motivo
Nitto definitely has a tire to fit just about each and every performance enthusiast’s needs. Ranging from the NeoGen,
designed for sport compacts and imports, which also features an inner shoulder that is a continuous block, reducing
tread flex and allowing even tire wear on lowered vehicles with increased amounts of negative camber, to the Invo
with its unique, state-of-the-art, computer-designed and digital audio-tested tread pattern designed to reduce noise
without compromising performance and handling. Its newest offering in the all-season ultra-high performance market
is the Motivo, engineered to perform in all weather conditions while providing ride comfort, minimal road noise and
increased mileage. Nitto also offers tires for the extreme drivers. The NT01 and the NT05 are both high performance
summer street tires designed with the weekend racer in mind. Both are fully capable on the track and can be driven
everyday during the week. The NT05 also comes in a version called the NT05R, specifically designed for drag racing.
Pictured: Motivo
Summer: Cinturato P7, PZero, PZero System
All-season: Cinturato P7 All-Season,
P-Zero Nero All Season
Pirelli’s P-Zero summer tire is sought after by high-end car manufacturers such as Ferrari, Maserati, Audi and Mercedes to be original
equipment on their vehicles. And it’s with good reason. This premium line of tires provides unrivaled dry traction, cornering and
braking performance and wet weather characteristics through the use of a silica and carbon black tread compound, Pirelli’s S-treme
asymmetrical tread design, and nano-composite technology. Pirelli also offers the P-Zero Nero All-Season which uses the same technologies to provide a tire with exceptional wet and dry traction and outstanding treadwear. Its asymmetrical tread design for precision
handling and the solid centre rib give a constant and consistent contact patch with the road, providing shorter braking distances and
quicker acceleration in both wet and dry conditions. Providing the perfect balance between performance, safety and environmental
awareness, Pirelli’s Green Performance philosophy has resulted in the Cinturato P7 and P7 All-season tires. Offering energy efficiency,
clean air technology, noise reduction and increased mileage combined with Pirelli’s proven performance, the Cinturato P7 is perfect
synergy. The right choice for drivers looking for a high-performance and eco-compatible tire. Pictured: Cinturato P7
Summer: HTRZ III
All-season: HTR A/S P01
Sumitomo has been able to offer an outstanding product line that is competitive with any of the premium
lines, but at a competitive price. Its high-performance line consists of two tires. The first is the Consumer
Reports highly-rated HTR A/S P01, an all-season high-performance tire with excellent wet and dry traction
and handling in heat or cold, and excellent treadwear. It does this with its directional, multi-grooved tread
pattern and zigzag groove wall. The five-rib asymmetrical design of the HTR ZIII summer performance tire
gives it exceptional lateral stability and high-speed handling and turn-in response. Its four straight, wide
grooves and siped tie-bars aid in water evacuation for increased wet traction.
Pictured: HTRZ III
Summer: Proxes T1 Sport, Proxes R1R, R888
All-season: Proxes 4
The goal of Toyo Tires is to ensure that your Toyo replacement tires not only maintain the performance qualities built into
your original equipment tire designed for your vehicle, but exceeds them. The Proxes T1 Sport meets this challenge
by offering an ultra-high performance tire which provides performance characteristics expected from a Proxes tire with
added comfort and stability for a luxury performance ride. Toyo has looked to its years of on-track experience to engineer
the R1R. This replacement to the successful T1-R features an aggressive tread design with an extra-wide footprint,
high-grip silica compound, and an advanced autocross-inspired casing to provide outstanding cornering capabilities and
traction for aggressive street driving. The Proxes 4 is an all-season, M&S rated, ultra-high performance tire designed
primarily for plus-fitment applications on sport compact cars, sports sedans, and coupes. Its unique W-shaped tread
pattern and high-angle tread grooves provide a good balance between wet traction and dry performance, while the
curving centre rib provides enhanced directional stability. And for those wanting to be more competitive on the track,
Toyo offers the R888 for extreme track and autocross.
Pictured: Proxes T1 Sport
Summer: Advan Neova AD08, Advan Sport, S.Drive
All-season: Avid ENVigor, Advan S.4.
Yokohama offers its newest addition to the all-season performance lineup: The Avid ENVigor. The Yokohama AVID
ENVigor tire line includes H- and V-speed rated High-Performance All-Season radials developed to meet the yearround driving needs of sports car, coupe, sedan and crossover drivers. AVID ENVigor tires are designed to combine
performance, comfort and tread life along with year-round traction. The summer high-performance offerings include
the tire made for the fastest production cars, the Advan Sport. The Sport is original equipment on cars such as the
Bentley Continental GT and the Porsche 911 Carrera 4. Also in its lineup is the S.Drive, with its micro-flexible compound
developed using nanotechnology to provide exceptional traction. For those wanting to drive every day during the week
and take it to the autocross or track on the weekend, the Advan Neova is a great choice. The ADVAN Neova AD08 is
Yokohama’s Extreme Performance Summer tire developed for the drivers of sports cars, sports coupes and performance
sedans who have a passion for sport driving. The ADVAN Neova AD08 is designed to provide high levels of traction,
responsive handling and driving control on dry and wet roads.
Pictured: Advan Neova AD08
TIRE CZAR
Getting the Most From
Your Tires Using TPMS
By Morton LJ Koch
If you drive a vehicle that is 2007 model year or newer, chances
are you have noticed the light on your instrument cluster shaped
like a “U” with an “!”
inside of it. Usually everything is okay and this
symbol blinks several
times and disappears
whenever you start the
engine. The system is
designed to ensure that
you are driving with the
proper amount of air
in the tires to carry the
weight of your vehicle.
If your air pressure is
below or above the
recommended levels,
then this light will flash
and then go solid until
corrected. This can be
something as simple as
putting some air in your
tire to bring it back up
to the proper pressure,
or, if the pressure is too
high, releasing some
air. If you have added
air to your tire and it
disappears for a time,
but reappears this could mean that you
have a puncture and the tire needs to be
repaired. If this is the case, you will need
to visit your local tire retailer.
you would have to check your air pressure by sticking a pressure
gauge on each of your tire’s valve stems. Not anymore!
Maintaining proper air pressure makes a dramatic difference
in how long your tires last, and improves your fuel economy.
Longer-lasting tires and less fuel means a reduced carbon foot
print. According to Be Tire Smart (www.betiresmart.ca), every
litre of fuel consumed by a vehicle results in 2.4 kg of carbon
dioxide, a greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change,
being released into the environment. Every year in Canada, 1.5
million tonnes of carbon dioxide are unnecessarily released into
the environment because of poor tire maintenance. If tire pressure is properly maintained, the average Canadian could save the
equivalent of two weeks of fuel. Saving two weeks of fuel every
year adds up to a significant amount of money when factored
over the life of your tires. Just because your TPMS light isn’t on
doesn’t mean your tires are set at the proper pressure. Be sure
to check your tire pressures before every trip, when your tires are
cold. You can find the correct air pressure listed in your owner’s
manual or on the placard in the driver’s door jam.
Not very exciting, but using this technology to make sure your
tires are always at the proper air pressure is very good on your
wallet and the environment. It is simple to begin saving. Just use
the tools in your vehicle and maintain your air pressure.
Morton “Tire Czar” Koch is president of a major Canadian tire
wholesale operation. Morton has worked in the tire industry for the
past 20 years. He can be reached at [email protected]
If the symbol continues to flash and does
not disappear, this indicates that you have
a fault. Usually it is a problem with one of
the tire sensors, which are part of the tireand-wheel assembly. You can’t see the
sensors by looking at the wheel and tire.
The sensors are located inside the tire at
the base of the valve stem or on a steel
band wrapped around the wheel. If your
light is flashing then you need to visit your
local tire expert to have it diagnosed as
soon as possible.
These systems have now been around for
quite a few years and have evolved to become more sophisticated. In many newer
vehicles, you are able to view accurate
pressure readings in each of your tires
through the instruments. In the old days,
RPM TEST FLEET
Kia Sorento
Price Range: . .......................................................................$26,595-$40,995
Engine: ..................................................................... 3.5L V6 DOHC 24-valve
Trans: .......................................................................................... 6 speed auto
Power: ................................................................................................... 276 hp
Torque: ................................................................................................ 248 lb-ft
Curb Weight: . ....................................................................... 1,837kg/4,401 lb
Fuel Economy: (L/100km – City/Highway) ........................................ 10.1/7.1
New for 2012: There is a new gasoline direct injection (GDI) engine as well
as a hands-free infotainment and communications system that is powered by
Microsoft. More new options include; power-folding mirrors, memory/power
passenger seat, ventilated driver’s seat, heated steering wheel and wood trim
steering wheel.
Segment Competitors: Nissan Murano, Chevrolet Equinox, Subaru Forester,
Toyota Highlander, Dodge Nitro, Hyundai Tucson.
The Skinny: The Sorento now has an optional third-row seat that can sit up to
seven…but not really suited for adults. The ride is stiff, particularly in the EX V6
model, but handling is responsive and secure. The optional 3.5-liter V6 delivers good power and acceptable
fuel economy. The seats are comfortable and the high seating position is great for the vertically challenged.
Pros: Stylish exterior, backup camera, quality interior with straight-forward layout, responsive V6.
Cons: Tight 3rd-row seating, stiff over the bumps, average at best fuel economy.
The Verdict: There a few things we would change, but overall we send the Sorento to near the top of its
class.
Fiat 500
Price Range:................................................................ $18,500-23,500
Engine: ............................................................ 1.4L L4 DOHC 16-valve
Trans:............................................................................... 6-speed auto
Power: ....................................................................................... 101 hp
Torque: ...................................................................................... 98 lb-ft
Curb Weight: ............................................................. 1,074 kg/2,362 lb
Fuel Economy: (L/100km – City/Highway) ................................. 7.4/5.7
New for 2012: The FIAT 500 is all new to North America this model
year.
Segment Competitors: Kia Rio, Ford Fiesta, Nissan Versa, Volkswagen
Beetle, Hyundai Accent, Scion iQ
The Skinny: The 500 comes in the Pop, Sport and Lounge trim levels and
is powered by a 101-horsepower 1.4-liter FIAT MultiAir engine combined
with with a 5-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed automatic transmission with manual shift and sport. Standard equipment includes seven
airbags, air conditioning, AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system, power window,
power door locks, power heated mirrors and an Electronic Vehicle Information Center. The Sport adds sport-tuned suspension,
16-inch alloy wheels, distinctive fascias, larger honeycomb grilles and aerodynamic updates. The Lounge gives you a 6-speed
automatic transmission, chrome accents, 15-inch alloy wheels, premium cloth seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio
controls, BOSE audio system and Blue & Me Handsfree Communication technology.
Pros: Fun to drive, retro interior, ample front head and leg room, price point.
Cons: Back seat room.
The Verdict: Great in-town car and a blast to drive. We see why it is J-Lo’s choice!
BMW 528i XDrive Sedan
Price Range: ............................................................ $56,900–$70,250
Engine: .................................................. 2.0 L4 turbo DOHC 16-valves
Trans: ..............................................................................8-speed auto
Power: . .....................................................................................241 hp
Torque: .................................................................................. 258 lb-ft
Curb Weight: .......................................................... 1,815 kg/3,993 lbs
Fuel Economy: (L/100km – City/Highway)................................ 8.8/5.9
New for 2012: The 5-Series receives a new direct-injection, turbo-
charged TwinPower inline 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine which produces 240
horsepower and 260 foot pounds of torque. The all-wheel drive xDrive
is available for the 528i Sedan. Auto Start/Stop is standard on the 528i
(our tester) and 535i.
Segment Competitors: Lexus GS 450h, Cadillac CTS, Jaguar XF Series,
Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Hyundai Genesis, Lexus GS, Lincoln MKZ
The Skinny: The 5 series sports a powerful and relatively fuel-efficient
turbocharged engine coupled with capable handling, sports a clean interior made of top-notch materials and has loads of high-tech
features.
Pros: Sleek design, excellent fit and finish, excellent handling, spacious trunk.
Cons: Clumsy transition from hybrid to gas mode.
The Verdict: Overall car maintains BMW high standards but we are not sold on the Start/Stop.
Dayco Canada Corp
7810 Keele Street, Unit C, Concord, ON L4K 0B7
4ELs4OLL&REE
&AXsWWWDAYCOCA
ROAD TEST - MINI COOPER S COUPE
MINImal
MINIs, there are some rattles that come with this setup, not something
I like on a brand new car.
However, this car is a driver, and taking bends is its specialty. With tight,
nimble handling and a firm ride, the Coupe S is nearly as fun to plod along
as it is to push to its limits, and its limits are up there. At its happiest, on
A fun little performer with a
a tight winding road in the hills, the MINI darts from corner to corner with
absolute confidence, giving the driver excellent feedback through both
flatulence issue
the seat and steering wheel. One thing I like most about the hatch is the
balance of the car, and the Coupe feels just as agile, reacting confidently
and predictably to weight transfers and race driving techniques. This
Story by Budd Stanley,
car is a driver’s dream; handling more like a rear-wheel drive than its
photos courtesy of MINI Canada
front-engine configuration would have you think, it’s quite happy to swing
he MINI Cooper S Coupe is a car that can laugh at its own flatulence. the back end out and leave it there for the duration of the hard-charged
Happily cruising through the Massey Tunnel, I let off the throttle corner. It’s no wonder MINI sent several of the Coupes to the Nurburgring
producing a series of glorious backfires that echoed through the tunnel. 24-hour race last year - this is a car that likes to be pushed.
This is a seriously fun car, I’ve always rated the Cooper S hatch one of
my all-time favourites in terms of fun factor, but the little coupe goes one However, herein lies another downfall in the MINI, that of fuel efficiency.
The little 1.6L might be a marvel, but you don’t get 181 horsepower
better, by lifting the spirits of all who drive her.
for free, do you? In daily driving routine, the Coupe will bring back
It is the fourth different version MINI has released based on the hatch. 7.0L/100km in the city, but if it’s fun time, the turbo becomes a black
While other versions have been stretched, plumped up or had the roof hole of doom, sucking in all the fuel it can manage, even more when
chopped clear off, this MINI is something special. More sports car than the throttle lets off, as great gobs of petrol are bypassed through the
hot hatch, it really has very little changed other than a chopped roof, with combustion chamber, barking in quick repeated pops of flatulence out
a design based off the look of a baseball cap turned backwards. And the rear. It may sound gross, but it’s music to my ears. It lets me know
the Coupe lives up to its immature design theory, being one of the most that engine is doing everything it can to make my driving experience
playful cars I’ve ever had the pleasure of tearing up the tarmac with. the best it can be. So, a little good and bad, but the Coupe also costs
Of course, with any sports car comes sacrifices in everyday versatility, $2,200 more than the hatch, which essentially is giving you less car
and the Coupe is exactly that to its bigger brothers, with the rear seats for a bigger dollar. Yeah, you’re buying the new unique look, but I find
taken out due to the impossible head room left by the new roof and a the old hatch to be a better bang for your buck, the Clubman S even
decrease in interior space. If you want a fun car that can still haul some more so.
groceries and get the kids to school, then the hatch is still your car. If
you’re a bachelor all about having fun, and want a unique car that gives While I’m not the biggest fan of the MINI Coupe’s design, there is just
no doubting the performance and fun factor that this car possesses. It
you those pleasures, the Coupe S is your car.
gives you the joy of a MINI, with that extra little bit of fury to up the driving
Based off the Cooper S platform, the Coupe still features that incredible experience. And I don’t care what anyone says, a car that has a bit of
1.6L four-cylinder turbocharged engine that provides 181 horsepower- flatulence is a car that loves to live life, a car that loves to run.
worth of motivations into a vehicle that is actually 5 kg heavier than its
older brother. Likewise, stopping power is provided by powerful perfor- Specifications
mance disc brakes and the suspension tuning is spot-on, making this
SPECIFICATIONS:
car a tarmac terrorist.
MSRP: . ................................................................................................... $31,950
T
Inside, from the front seats looking forward, there is no change from
the hatch other than a lower windshield. However, it’s behind that is all
change. Behind the seats sits a cargo wall with ski pass-through, linking
to a parcel shelf on top reaching back to the base of the rear window. It’s
a stylish separator from the seats and the cargo area, but much like most
Engine: ..........................................................1.6L turbocharged DOHC 4-cylinder
Power: . ..................................................................................................... 181 hp
Torque: . ..................................................................................................174 lb-ft
Layout: .................................................................................... Front-engine, FWD
Curb Weight: .......................................................................... 1,215 kg (2,673 lb)
Fuel Efficiency (city, hwy): .............................................7.6L/100km, 5.6L/100km
THE TRUCK GUY
Toyota Tacoma
By Ian Harwood
he 2012 Toyota Tacoma has received some minor updates. With the
T
cult like following around here for this truck, that might be as drastic
as shaving your head.
Looks:
Not to worry, the changes made to this Tacoma are not dramatic and bring
the front end more in line with the 4runner. The rest of the truck stays the
same. There are four models to choose from, 4x2 Access cab, 4x4 Access
cab, 4x4 Access cab V6, and 4x4 Double cab V6. My tester for the week
was the 4x4 Double cab V6.
In The Cab:
The interior is roomy considering this is a midsize truck. The front bucket
seats offer some adjustability with a well-positioned center console with
arm rest. The rear seat is a fold down bench with under seat storage
container. The stereo is a 6 speaker AM/FM CD with MP3/WMA capability
and audio auxiliary jack. Steering wheel controls let you navigate through
the various settings without distracting you from the road.
2,721 kg for the 4x4’s, access cabs, and double cab models. All models
feature a limited slip differential and the 4x4 Access cab with TRD off-road
package has an optional rear differential lock controlled by a switch on the
dash. The TRD off-road package includes an upgraded alternator, front
skid plate, 400 watt power inverter, and Bilstein shock absorbers, and I
almost forgot, TRD off-road stickers!
Pump frequency:
13.7 /10.5 L/100 km (city/highway)
Warranty support:
Basic coverage 36 month/ 60,000 km
Powertrain 60 month/ 100,000 km
Corrosion perforation 60 month/ unlimited km
Roadworthy:
Toyota trucks have been very popular here in Canada and have improved
over the years. There is a very strong connection with these trucks and
Safety first:
The Tacoma offers complete protection with dual stage driver and front their owners and driving one you could understand why. I drove it for a
passenger, front seat mounted side airbags, and roll sensing side airbags. week during the little amounts of snow and ice we had and it is amazing.
Advanced anti-lock brakes, vehicle stability control and traction control are No weight in the box and it still gripped the road without even a slip of
the tire.
some of the safety features of this vehicle.
Power:
There are two engines available, a 2.7 L 16 valve DOHC 4 cylinder that
generates 159 horsepower and a 4.0 L DOHC V6 that puts out 236 horsepower. The V6 comes with a 6 speed manual or 5 speed automatic with
overdrive, while the 4 cylinder model is equipped with a 5 speed manual,
or 4 speed automatic with overdrive. Towing capacity is 1587 kg and
Verdict:
The popularity of these trucks is still growing and in this segment I think it
would be hard for the competition to compete.
Sticker price:
$22,100 - $29,900
JDM Envy:
Acura TSX (J’s Racing)
Story and photos by Giancarlo Pawelec
J
DM envy – you got, I got, we all got it. It is those one-off type vehicles that everyone dreams of owning, let alone building,
and here’s one for your appreciation. For many enthusiasts, the dream of building a purist project car like this Acura TSX is
too far from reality. Dave Tsai of Toronto, Ontario, Canada is one enthusiast who has made the unimaginable possible with
help from friends and industry leaders.
Having owned several tuned machines in his past – ranging from a JUN Racing Subaru STi to a Mazdaspeed RX-8 and even
a Euro-tuned E46 M3 – Tsai felt the need to go back to his JDM roots and true love of all things Honda. The project began
after Tsai realized that he needed a daily driver that was comfortable, yet sporty. Little did anyone in the local scene suspect
that his once factory-stock TSX would get a true JDM massage resulting in being one of the rarest Honda vehicles in the
country, let alone continent.
36 Speed & Sound RPM Apr / May 2012
Starting from the outside in, this Acura TSX was transformed
into a true JDM machine consisting of the very-best and
uber-rare parts available. Up front, a J’s Racing Type-S front
bumper replaces the factory bland unit while sides and rear
lip are JDM Euro-R pieces. Further conversions include JDM
Euro-R headlights, badges, window visors, and black window
moldings. A set of J’s Racing Type-S canards finish off the
aggressive front-end and provide some additional downforce
during weekend track adventures.
The K24A2 engine under the bonnet was tuned by the veteran Honda pros at Kensai Racing and looks gorgeous with the
yellow SPOON Sports valve cover. The K-series engine build
consists of SKUNK2 Pro-Series Valves, Valve Springs and
Retainers. Further internal upgrades include a set of SKUNK2
Pro-Series stage II camshafts giving this once mild-mannered
Honda engine a more aggressive performance edge. Sucking air into the K24 engine is a J’s Racing carbon intake box
that feeds into an RBC Intake Manifold that has been ported
& polished by Turtle. Hot gasses pass through a MUGEN
exhaust header, travel through a J’s Racing cat-killer and out
through their 60RS single exhaust system. With all the engine
work done, Tsai had a HONDATA K-Pro ECU tuned by Turtle
Tuning. The new K24 setup put down an impressive 248whp
@ 8,160rpm and 185 lb-ft of torque @ 2,800rpm.
As a demo car for J’s Racing in North America, the fit and finish of every piece is simply perfect. There is true admiration
for the TSX’s looks with sleek lines, and utilizing J’s Racing
aero goods with the striking contrast of the green wheels.
For those who know Tsai in the industry, wheels to him are
like jewelry to a woman – you can never have enough. For
5",&5)&26"/56.-&"1
W W W . F A S T W H E E L S . C A
26"/56.
'
45":56/&%
the street, Tsai uses a set of 18-inch Volk Racing CE28
wheels sprayed in Takata green that make a statement. A
second set of wheels is swapped for track sprints, which are
17-inch ADVAN Racing RS. Both sets of wheels are wrapped
in BFGoodrich rubber with KDWs for daily driving and R1s
for racing. Tucked just behind the wheels is a set of SPOON
Sports brake calipers mated to Racing Brake two-piece rotors
up front and MUGEN rotors at the rear.
The perfect stance of this TSX is made possible with the use
of ZEAL Function Xs coilovers. Other suspension enhancements, be they for street or track use, include SPOON Sports
upper control arms (front and rear) as well as a set of rear toe
control arms. Further chassis strengthening comes in the way
of a CARBING underbody floor support bar, rear trunk brace
and rear bumper bar. A set of Swift Springs Euro-R front and
rear sway bars tightens up the TSX during hard cornering,
alongside J’s Racing strut bars.
At the back, Tsai installed a J’s Racing carbon fibre rear diffuser for track attacks and the must-have racing hooks. Final
tweaks include a J’s Racing 4.77 final-drive gear set, 1.5-way
LSD and JDM Euro-R taillight assembly.
With more JDM goods than a Honda-purists’ wet dream and
true dual-functionality (street / track), Dave Tsai’s Acura TSX
is one mean machine. Careful attention to detail makes this
ride not only unique, but also the perfect showcase for J’s
Racing. Be sure to check out this awesome Honda at the
SEMA Show as it is slated to be in the J’s Racing booth – is it
any wonder? The only question left is, “with this project complete, what’s next for Dave?” That remains to be seen, but it
will surely blow the doors off any competition yet again.
MEGASPEED COVERAGE
Megaspeed Custom Car & Truck Show
Story by Mark Harris, photos by Mark Harris
and Giancarlo Pawelec
T
he Megaspeed Custom Car & Truck show was held at the International Centre in Mississauga recently. Formerly known as Performance World, the show’s main focus was the classics, with a section
reserved for the modern tuner cars. This year’s show was very well
attended, but saw a decline in the number of vehicles entered in the
show. To say the show was anything but epic would be doing a great
injustice to the many, many hours of hard work and dedication that
everyone involved put into this event. The new owners have done a
very good job and it is certain that next year’s show will be even bigger and better.
But let’s not forget where the new school came from. That’s right,
it came from the old school. It came in part from the hot rods and
rat rods of the ‘40s and ‘50s. The outrageous cherry red paint
with flames down the side, and the rough-around-the-edges, rusty
sleepers that could outrun any cop car.
And let’s hope the old school doesn’t forget that they helped to
inspire the tuner scene that some scoff at today. The once-rebellious are all grown up. Some have kids, others have grandkids.
We all share the same passion, however, and that creates an
unspoken bond between the venerable and the fledgling, whether
we like it or not.
The hall housing the tuner vehicles seemed particularly sparse this
year, however. The reasons for this are many. Some of the vehicles that
were slated to take part may have not been finished on time. Some of
last year’s entrants may have felt they’d “been there, done that.” Some
may blame the still-unsteady economy, and while that may be a part of
the cause for the drop in entrants, there is a deeper issue at work here.
While many consider this the beginning of the show season in Canada,
when it comes right down to it, this is not a ‘tuner’ show. Not in the same
way that shows like Importfest or Import Expo are, at least.
The tuner section of Megaspeed reminds one of the divide that still
seems to exist between the old-school greasers and the new-school
gearheads. The tuners end up stuck in the corner, like a naughty school
kid with a dunce cap on.
Speed & Sound RPM Apr / May 2012
41
MEGASPEED COVERAGE
It is completely understandable how some of the more established
find the upstarts mildly offensive. The music is deafening and they
can’t understand the words, there are many good looking girls which
may get the guys in trouble with the missus, there are cars on display that don’t use carburetors or small-block V8s, and most of the
tuners are driven, daily. Unlike some of the classics, one probably
wouldn’t want to eat off the underneath of most of the tuner cars.
In fact, eating off of the underneath of one of the show cars in the
main hall would make them dirty!
Despite all this, the tuners put on a great show this year. There was
never a dull moment. Between the fashion shows, the bikini contests,
the hip-hop shows and dancers, there was something for everyone
to enjoy. Oh yeah, and there were some seriously awesome vehicles
on display. Each one unique. Each one gleaming.
Years from now, when we’re sitting with our immaculate Japanese
and European vehicles, complaining about the noise coming from
the back corner of a massive convention centre, let’s remember that
we were once the rowdy ones, and we all have a common bond, a
common love. And that makes us all the same in the end.
PLUGGED IN
Talking Safe
Story by Dave MacKinnon,
photos by Manufacturers
A couple of years ago, we looked at some of the different Bluetooth
hands-free solutions available on the market. Given that almost every
Province in Canada has a hands-free or distracted-driving law in effect,
it seems only fitting to see if anything new or cool has surfaced in the
industry.
There are essentially four options available when it comes to using a
cellular phone while operating your vehicle – an in-ear device, a visor-mount portable device, a system that is installed in your vehicle
and works with your factory audio system, or an aftermarket radio that
includes Bluetooth. We are going to talk about options 2 and 3 in this
issue of Plugged In. Why not look at head units? Well, we are going to
cover off all sorts of cool head units in an upcoming issue, and for sure,
all of them will have Bluetooth capabilities.
The most important feature of a Bluetooth device is its sound quality. If
the person you are calling can’t hear you, then the device is not helping
you communicate safely. Look for devices with multiple microphones
and that feature some type of DSP noise cancellation. The use of dual
microphones, when installed properly, allows the unit to discern what
noise in your vehicle is your voice and what is background noise from
the wind, your exhaust or your tires. Similar to how noise cancelling
Law or not, I don’t think it’s wise to have anything in your ears while you headphones work to eliminate background noise when on an airplane,
are driving, be it a Bluetooth headset, or worse, headphones connected these systems do the same thing, letting your voice come through loud
to your iPod. Anything that reduces the chance of you being able to and clear.
hear what is going on around you while you are driving is extremely
dangerous.
You may also want to look for a device that has voice recognition of
some sort, be it internal processing to let you ‘Call Home’ or ‘Call Work’,
If you don’t recall from the original story a few years back, or haven’t been or the ability to activate the voice recognition system on your Blackberry
an RPM reader for that long, let’s talk about Bluetooth itself. Bluetooth is or iPhone, for example. Fewer hand gestures to initiate a call is always
the name of a radio communication protocol. Just like Wi-Fi or CB or FRS. safer.
Bluetooth, on its own, has nothing to do with cellular phones in particular.
In fact, most video game systems and many computer keyboards and Whatever device you choose, be sure and try it out before you buy it.
mice use Bluetooth radio communications to transmit data back and forth. Pair your phone, shut it off and turn it back on to ensure it reconnects.
Bluetooth works over roughly 10 metres in most applications and it has Try making a call and receiving a call, and if you are so inclined, play
the benefit of being quite efficient in terms of battery usage.
some music over A2DP to see what control it has.
When looking for a Bluetooth solution, you need to decide between a
portable device and one that is installed. The benefit of portable is that
you can take it from vehicle to vehicle. But all use an internal battery that
will need to be recharged. Installed-type systems are much less visible in
your car, perhaps the biggest feature in my opinion. They also often offer
better sound quality as they use the large speakers already in your car,
rather than a 1- or 2-inch speaker that has to fit on your sun visor.
Sorry, A2DP? Yes, this is the Advanced Audio Distribution Profile, and if
you have an iPhone or similar, you can send music from your phone to
a hands-free device equipped with this functionality. An advance subset
of A2DP is AVRCP – Audio Video Remote Control Profile – and when
you have this as well, you can change tracks on your phone from your
mobile device. Anyways, be sure and try it before you buy to make sure
it all works the way you want.
mObridge M1000-M-BT
Built in Australia, the mObridge M1000-M-BT lets you add high-quality Bluetooth to older Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi, Porsche, Land
Rover and Mini vehicles that had Bluetooth as an option. This device
connects to the MOST fibre optic bus and fully integrates with the
factory radio and controls.
DriveNTalk KlaT7
The DriveNTalk KlaT7 is a premium install-type hands-free Bluetooth
kit. It features a wireless remote control, dual-element microphone
with noise and echo cancellation, and a built-in amplifier to drive up
to four channels of audio, and includes hands-free communication
and audio streaming capabilities.
43
PLUGGED IN
BlueAnt S4
The S4 from BlueAnt is a visor-mount Bluetooth Speakerphone that
has voice recognition and audio streaming support. When used in
conjunction with a third-party application called SafeReader, it will
read out incoming text messages.
Jabra Freeway
The Freeway from Jabra employs three speakers and claims impressive ‘surround sound-like’ sound quality. It has voice recognition, supports audio streaming and can be used with two phones
simultaneously.
DriveNTalk BHF2000
The dual-mic BHF2000 from DriveNTalk has a solar panel, so it’s always ready
to go. Gesture control lets you turn the volume up and down with a wave of your
hand, and a built-in FM Stereo transmitter lets you re-transmit A2DP audio into
your factory audio system. It speaks out incoming phone numbers as well.
iConnects MicroVisor
The iConnects MicroVisor features dual mics for great sound quality. The system comes with a hard-wiring kit to eliminate the need
to recharge the battery.
Novero TheTrustyOne
From Novero comes TheTrustyOne – it announces incoming calls by name
or number and uses a discrete microphone in conjunction with noise and
echo cancellation for clear sound quality. The control unit is illuminated to
make it easy to use in the dark and it supports music playback.
Parrot MKi9200
As a leader in Bluetooth technology, the MKi9200 from Parrot has all the bells
and whistles, including a colour LCD display to show you who is calling, or
even the album art from your iPod. Control is provided by a wireless remote
but can also be integrated into factory hands-free controls. It features a dualelement mic and even has a USB port from which you can play music.
Parrot MINIKIT Smart
Designed to be used as a cradle for your cellular device, the MINIKIT Smart
not only takes care of your hands-free needs, but also lets you safely use your
phone in a convenient and safe location when you are using a Navigation application. It supports voice recognition, and will accept phones up to 7cm wide.
Ultimate UBTFM41
The UBTFM41 from Ultimate plugs into your cigarette lighter socket
and features an LCD display to let you see who is calling or what
is playing. It has an FM Radio transmitter, support for an SD card,
and a USB slot for MP3 and WMA file playback.
PERFORMANCE
Big Wheels Keep On Turnin’
What performance side
effects do bigger wheels
have on your car?
Story by Budd Stanley
T
drive system, the gearbox and differential. Your final drive ratio
is the amount of rotations your engine makes in relation to your
axles, after going through the gearbox and differential. However,
the final drive gear on every vehicle is set up in direct relation
to the overall diameter of the tires doing the work. Usually when
people up-size their wheels, they follow up with lower profile
tires to equalize to the original tire rotational size, not increasing
the final drive ratio of the car.
he swapping of small wheels for larger, better-looking
aluminum mags is usually the first thing we do when we
purchase ourselves a new project car. However, other than the
vastly improved looks, what are the benefits of larger wheels
on your car? The answer may surprise you, as there is very
little larger wheels can do to increase performance, depending
on what your final objectives are for the car. If you’ve slapped
a huge set of chromed out 20s on your BMW, you can pretty However, some people don’t take this into account and put a
much stop reading now, as we dive in to see how wheel size larger overall setup on their vehicles. This affects the final drive
can make your car faster.
If you look at modern race and rally cars, there is one
apparent trait that goes along with those cool-looking
racing wheels - the wheel is only as big as it needs
to be to clear the brakes. A very common trait found
on the street is a large 18-inch wheel plastered onto
a ‘90s Civic, and those stock brake discs that are
now clearly seen behind look puny and insignificant.
With no large gaps on race cars, why is it they try to
keep their wheels as small as possible?
The first downfall is the increase in unsprung mass.
It’s pretty simple; more metal, more weight, more
work your engine needs to do to get those heavier
wheels turning. As an added side effect, you will also
see your car’s fuel efficiency falter as well. While bigger tires with larger contact surfaces tend to increase
cornering grip, going too big can also overwhelm the
car’s sway bars and suspension, actually reducing
lateral traction.
Second is final drive ratio. Now, many people only
think of the final drive ratio being related to the car’s
PERFORMANCE
of the car with two consequences. Acceleration will
slow, but top speed will increase. Likewise, a smaller
wheel-and-tire package, often found on autocross and
older racing cars, effectively lowers the final drive ratio, increasing acceleration, but lowering top speed. In
autocrossing and on certain race tracks, this offers a
distinct advantage.
When keeping the final drive ratio the same, another
issue arises with low-profile tires. Today, manufacturers use low-pro tires on just about every performance
car sold, but they are much wider than they were only
a short decade ago, as contact patch has been increased to replace the tire’s sidewall flex. If you look
at drag racing and Formula One cars, they have very
small wheels with extremely large tires. This increase
of sidewall allows these cars to direct traction to the
ground much easier when dealing with such massive
power numbers. Smaller sidewalls mean less accelerating traction, unless the width is increased to make up
for the shortfall. All too often, I see people who did not take this The true benefits of larger wheels come when you are either
into account, and while the tires may be wide, they are not 500 allowed by racing regulations or by personal finances to max
or 600 horsepower-wide, and traction suffers as a result.
the performance of both brakes and power. The braking force of
a 15-inch diameter rotor being squeezed by a 6-piston caliper,
Fitment is your final concern when up-sizing wheels. Cars backed up by 300 or 500 horsepower, makes upgrading to a
built in the ‘70s and ‘80s came equipped with 13- and 14-inch 19- or 20-inch wheel a little more realistic. Thus you have the
wheels, cars from the ‘90s had 15- and 16-inch wheels, while manic-looking Japanese Super GT and German DTM cars whose
cars built today often have 17- and 18-inch wheels. As such, wheels bulge high over the hood. This is also why Porsche 911s,
bodywork was designed to encapsulate those diameter wheels. BMW M3s and Subaru STi’s can get away with running 18-inch
Changing the size of your wheels can upset the ride height and higher wheels. So, when you think of upsizing the wheels
and therefore handling of your car. Clearances may also not on your car, make sure you think to yourself, “am I doing this
be generous enough to fit the wheels you just bought online, for strictly looks, or am I trying to get the most out of the car
requiring bodywork to stop tire rubbing before you can actually I have?” If it’s the latter, sit down and do some homework to
mount them.
ensure that hard-earned money isn’t being thrown away.
47
Keeping a
Promise
Looking back at
Turbine-powered concepts
By Cam Hutchins
T
his 1962 Corvette with a 360-horsepower fuel-injected 327 was purchased in 1999 from the original owner in Sidney B.C. with 42,000
original miles. Gordon Russell bought the car new from Carter Motors in Winnipeg on February 12, 1962 for $5,775.00. Russell’s two
brothers, Don and Ray, had bought 1961 Fuel Injected Corvettes previously, and the day that Russell picked up his 1962 model, he had a
photo taken of himself with his new silver car and his brothers in their two black cars.
Russell had factory ordered the car and it had Sateen Silver paint, four-speed transmission, 4.11 rearend and an extremely rare option,
sintered brakes, which were even rarer than the big brakes ordered for racing. The sintered brakes are metallic brakes placed on the shoes
in pucks to help dissipate heat and dust, and are not as prone to glazing.
Somewhere along the way, Russell moved to Sidney B.C., and the car was first seen by the current owner, Bob Elsdon, sitting in Russell’s
garage. Russell was ill and was wanting assurance from Elsdon that he would restore the car and not hotrod it. Elsdon shook hands on the
deal and paid the high end of the appraisal. The car had never been in an accident and except for the engine, it was a great car.
®
®
JMAKAFL@=M:
$KFL>GJ N=JQGF=
®
It's just for people who like...
UÊhaving a little fun
UÊreminiscing about happy times
UÊseeing and being seen
with beautiful classics cars
If that's you, watch for the start of our
Cruisin' the Dub season at an A&W restaurant near you!
®
Be sure your club is on our mailing list. E-mail us any time at cruisin aw.ca
@
® Trade-mark of A&W Trade Marks Limited Partnership, used under licence.
It had spun a lower-end bearing in 1967
and Russell had removed the engine,
and as a mechanical engineer, thought
he would do the rebuild himself. The
crank was removed and a special oneinch plywood box with supports for each
bearing was built to protect the crank
from bending. Unfortunately, a divorce
put the restoration on hold and the car’s
condition deteriorated dramatically. The
tires, interior and paint could have been
salvaged, but the top was too far gone
and the tires would have been untrustworthy.
The decision was made to dismantle
the car for a complete restoration. The
body was totally stripped of paint to the
gel coat and was painted with Sateen
Silver lacquer sourced from a friend from
the States, and was wet-sanded and
polished. The frame was also stripped
and repainted, using N.O.S. suspension
pieces with new reproduction bias-ply
tires on the original wheels.
The transmission and differential were inspected and serviced, but
the gears were in perfect shape so it was more a matter of replacing
seals and cosmetic improvements. The engine was rebuilt to original
specs and the fuel injection system was sent to Oregon for restoration by one of the few remaining Corvette Fuel Injection specialists.
great shape but was removed and replaced by an “Al Knock” interior,
and the roof was also replaced.
The car has been driven to B.C. AirCare emissions testing and one
car show. Elsdon wanted the car because of its great condition and
its rarity. Having owned a few Corvettes and other Chevrolets and
All original brightwork was polished and re-installed except for N.O.S. hot rods, Elsdon always wanted a C-1 and this is the last year of the
sill plates, and all chrome pieces were re-plated. The interior was in solid rear axle for Corvettes.
50 Rods & Classics RPM Apr / May 2012
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P iAA r Acing
P iAA M oTorsPorTs
P iloT A uToMoTiVe
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www.lordco.com
1962 CORVETTE HISTORY
It is interesting to note that the only available engine for 1962 was a
327, three versions with a four-barrel carb and one with fuel injection.
The two lower-powered versions had 250 and 300 horsepower, and
the Powerglide automatic was only available with them. Both of the
higher-powered versions had the high-lift camshaft with the carbureted version putting out 340 hp and 344 lb-ft of torque, slightly less
than the 360 hp and 352 lb-ft of torque for the fuel-injected mill. A
manual transmission was available with either three or four speeds,
and rear-end ratios were available in a large array with 3.36, 3.55,
3.70, 4.11 and finally a very low 4.56 ratio.
The restoration was performed by Classic and Performance Cars
Ltd. in Delta, B.C. and with every nut and bolt redone to perfection,
this car stands as a testament to what a restoration should be. After
being judged at a local NCRS meet in 2011 shortly after restoration
was complete, it received the Top Flight Honours.
The fuel injection was a $484.20 option and was more than ten
percent of the base price of $4,038, and the 4-speed transmission
added $188.30, slightly less than the two-speed Powerglide unit at
$199.10. Other available options included Signal Seeking AM Radio
at $137.75; Power Windows, $59.20; Power Operated Folding Top,
$161.40; Metallic Brakes $37.70; Heavy-Duty Brakes & Suspension
$333.60; 6.70x15 White Sidewall Tires, $31.55
There were seven available colours for 1962, including Tuxedo Black,
Ermine White, Roman Red and Honduras Maroon, and the other
three colours were Sateen Silver Metallic, Almond Beige, and Fawn
Beige Metallic. No blues or greens or two-tone paint for 1962.
Just under 15,000 Corvettes were produced in 1962, up from 10,000
in 1961, and they rode on a 102-inch wheelbase and weighed around
3,000 pounds, depending on options. These cars were still King of
the Road, and Chevrolet sold more 1962 Corvettes than all of the
Jaguar E-Types sold in North America between 1961 and 1964 put
together.
This particular car, having a soft top only, was one of only a handful of
cars with the fuel injection and sintered brakes sold in Canada. Other
options include the AM/FM “Wonderbar” radio and “spinner” wheel
covers. Bob Elsdon plans on sharing his pride and joy with others,
and will be showing the car extensively, and absolutely living up to
his promise of restoring the car back to stock...and then some!
HISTORY
ORIGINAL CHOPPED MINI
PLUGGED- IN
for the Mini, Dizzy decided to develop his
idea into a racing/sports car project. Dizzy
applied Kamm’s theory that a truncated
teardrop shape was more efficient than a
tapered point. He started with a Mini van
with a damaged roof, feeling that the floor
plan would lend itself better to his vision
and longer wheelbase would handle the
higher speeds. The roof was chopped and
a rear section taken out to be replaced with
custom sloping sheet metal.
Up front, the tall A-series engine proved a
problem for the new sloped nose design.
Dizzy subsequently designed an angular
rocker cover to allow a lower hoodline in
front of the engine. A Mini Cooper 1071S
engine was fitted, and to finish it off, magnesium Minilite wheels filled the fenders.
The project was named the DART, standing
for Dizzy Addicott Racing Team.
The Original
Chopped Mini
Mini’s Cooper S Coupe was
preceded by the DART and
Mini Marcos
Story by Budd Stanley,
photos courtesy of Mini, Marcos
T
This first prototype would be the only metal
DART made as Dizzy planned to make use
of fibreglass in the production shells. He
was validated at the wind tunnel at Weybridge when the theoretical maximum stable speed was listed at an impressive 170 mph;
however, the car was only mechanically capable of 148 mph.
After the prototype was shown at the Racing Car Show at
Earl’s Court, London, plans were made to produce the DART in
fibreglass monocoque form. Production was contracted out to
Walton on Thames. Approximately eight fibreglass shells were
produced. Dizzy had lined up a friend who was ready to market
the car, but there was some disagreement between Dizzy and
the manufacturer concerning the quality of the shells and at that
point he separated himself from the project.
Dizzy was aware that his racing car project was interfering with
his aeronautical career and he stepped away from his creation to
return to the test pilot scene. Dizzy finally sold the whole project
to Jeremy Delmar-Morgan for 750 pounds, who would market
the Mini DART as the Mini JEM. The initial production run was
40 shells.
he latest addition to the Mini family,
the Coupe, has been fairly successful in its opening months on the market.
Despite the absence of rear seats, a
lower roofline and decreased exterior
visibility, there are a flock of the sporty
little coupes running around urban centres in Canada.
However, the 2012 Mini Cooper Coupe is
not the first Mini to undergo radical roof
altering surgery, as there were several
very interesting versions of the classic
original Mini designed back in the ‘60s to
make the most of aerodynamic forces.
The DART
The first to look at the original Mini in a
sleek new way was Desmond Addicott,
known as “Dizzy” to his friends. Joining
the RAF during the war, Dizzy came to
appreciate the benefits of aerodynamics, working as a test pilot as his day
job after the war. With his knowledge
of aerodynamics and a fond passion
The Original DART was built on the
platform of a damaged Mini Van,
used for the extra wheelbase.
HISTORY
ORIGINAL CHOPPED MINI
PLUGGED- IN
The 1071 A-Series
was the engine of
choice for Dizzy.
regularly campaigned in historic sports car races, sprints and hill climbs
around the world.
In 1967, the body shape was revised, with a larger front number plate
panel, recessed fuel filler, and simpler, semi-circular wheel arches instead
of the distinctive notched design. This was known as the Mk.II and was
the prototype for the famous Corgi Mini Marcos GT models. The original
cars became known as Mk I.
The Mk. III was the most popular version and the only Mini Marcos to
be homologated, with a batch of 50 cars being built between February
1967 and January 1968. As a road car, it had the disadvantage of a
fixed rear window which made access to the luggage space difficult.
This was overcome when an opening rear hatch was introduced as a
factory option.
By 1970, Marcos stopped production of the Mini coupe, but like the
DART, the car would live on. D & H Fibreglass Techniques would offer
the kit from 1974 to 1981, then Marcos would come back to offer the car
Marcos Mini
once again in 1991 to 1996, with other versions being built by several
As the DART project came to an end, Jem Marsh (not to be mistaken for other companies. The car is even available today; following the closure
the Mini JEM) set about making another teardrop-shaped Mini. The car of the Marcos company, the Mini Marcos molds were acquired by Rory
was designed by Brian Moulton with Malcolm Newell as pattern maker, McMath of Marcos Heritage Spares who has re-launched the car as the
along the same lines as the Mini Jem, but it was not a direct copy.
Heritage Mk. VI with a competition version, the GT.
The new coupe made a spectacular debut at Castle Combe circuit in
September 1965. The track was wet, suiting the front-wheel drive Mini,
and in the hands of local Mini racer, Geoff Mabbs, the Marcos would go
on to an incredible victory, lapping all but one Ginetta, to win by over a
minute. The car was officially launched the next year at the Racing Car
Show, in January 1966, a full year ahead of the Mini Jem.
Much like the old Marcos Coupe, today’s Mini Coupe also saw its
debut come on a race track, the Nurburgring during the 24-hour race.
However, if the modern incarnation’s currently popularity continues, the
new Coupe will follow in the lines of several great coupes based on the
basic Mini platform.
However, the Marcos would continue to post impressive race results,
with Marsh running the cars in several racing series and even at the Le
Mans 24-Hour. In 1966, a spunky little “Marcos BMC” driven by Claude
Ballot-Lena and Jean-Louis Marnat, competing against the might of
Porsche, Ford and Ferrari, finished in 15th place and was the only British car to qualify as a finisher. In fact, it only just made the qualifying
distance despite Jem Marsh’s orders to the team to go slower! The car
was subsequently stolen after the race and has not been heard of since,
though rumours of its whereabouts surface from time to time.
Jem Marsh returned to Le Mans the following year with a more streamlined car and was clocked at 146 mph on the Mulsanne straight, confirming Dizzie’s theory that the car would be only good for 148 mph. Unfortunately, an oil pump failure forced the car to retire early in the race.
Track racing would not be the only place Marcos would hope to prove
the worth of the little chopped Mini. Steve Roberts would set four British
land speed class records, (flying mile, half mile, kilometre and 500m)
for cars up to 1,600 cc, which remain to this day, at the wheel of a Marcos Mini. And the Marcos isn’t done yet, as many of these cars are still
The Marcos, while having the
same dimensions, was not a
complete copy of the DART.
Midas was one of several companies that built copies
of the DART, even gathering the backing of a young
Gordon Murray.
Rods & Classics RPM Apr / May 2012 55
CLASSIC CORNER
Custom classic
caught my eye
Deluxe sedan sets heart racing
By Nigel Matthews
uring the summer of 2011, during a judging assignment at the
Glenmoor Gathering in Canton, Ohio, I came across a classic
car auction with affordable entry-level cars for those of us with shorter In the late-’80s, it was donated to the Crawford Auto-Aviation Museum
in Cleveland. A local collector recently purchased it during a large sell-off
pockets compared to the deep-pocketed purchasers in Scottsdale.
of the museum’s inventory.
One vehicle that caught my eye was the pictured 1955 Willys Custom Deluxe Sedan (the correct pronunciation of Willys is “Will-is;” unfortunately, it is I would have purchased this vehicle in a heartbeat - so that I could show
up at a car show with the only one in B.C. - if only the auction was taking
universally incorrectly pronounced “Will-eez”).
place in Seattle and not Ohio. I watched eagerly as the bidding reached
The brand name dates back to Willys-Overland Motors, an American automo- $9,100. I thought to myself someone had just made a very good buy,
bile company. Most of us immediately associate the name to its well known until the auctioneer announced that it had not reached its reserve and
military MB Jeeps and the CJ civilian versions built during the 20th century. was a no-sale.
D
The year 1955 was the final year of production for the Willys Aero cars. Upon further investigation I found the very same car for sale in HemThis four-door sedan was a spinoff of the two-door sports Bermuda hardtop mings magazine for $16,995. Perhaps it was a little optimistic of me to
think that one could purchase one of the 2,165 Willys Custom Sedans
model range.
ever built for less than $10,000. Stranger things have happened, though,
This particular Custom Sedan has a mere 25,085 original miles and is in at auctions!
exceedingly good original condition; it still has the optional seat covers protecting the original fabric beneath. It spent a number of years in Florida, as Check out www.classicmotorcaructions.com for more on the Glenmoor
Gathering.
noted by the 1987 windshield safety sticker.
Steve McQueen’s ‘little Ferrari’ a Siata in disguise
By Nigel Matthews
he company name SocIata Auto Transformazioni Accessori transT
lated into English means Italian Car Transformation Accessories
Company.
coupe fitted with a 22-horsepower 500cc Fiat engine, or if you wanted
an additional three horsepower you could order a 750cc model.
Amica production ceased in 1952 when Siata introduced the 300BC
Barchetta Sport Spider designed by Mario Revelli de Beaumont and
built by Nuccio Bertone and Rocco Motto. Approximately 40 were built,
It all began when Italian amateur race car driver Giorgio Ambrosini fitted with either a 750cc Fiat or 1,100cc Crosley engine.
started to manufacture engine tuning parts and accessories for Fiat
In 1953, Siata took quite a radical step and went from using small enmotor cars.
gines to using Fiat’s magnificent 2.0-litre V8 engine, building a total of
After the Second World War, he branched out and began building his 35 coupes and convertibles up until 1955. These cars were certainly
own sports cars, which also used the Siata brand name. The first model not cheap, retailing in the States for $5,300.
was the 1948 Siata Amica, available as a two-seater convertible or
A greater interest in the Siata brand occurred when actor and up-andcoming race car driver Steve McQueen ordered one from the Los Angeles dealer. The story goes that McQueen replaced the Siata emblems
with those from a Ferrari and called it his “Little Ferrari.”
The example pictured here is one of only 11 coupes built by the coachbuilder Balbo. It was imported to New York in 1954 and raced by its three
previous owners in Sports Car Club of America events until 1959.
A newly formed company called ORSA (Officina Realizzazioni Sarde
Automobili) tried to revive Siata, building an 850cc special, but sales
of sport cars in Italy suffered as a result of the 1973 oil crisis, causing
ORSA to close in 1975.
Nigel Matthews is the sales and marketing executive for Hagerty
Canada. He can be contacted via email at
[email protected]
NEW PRODUCT SHOWCASE
SI-1 Fuel System Cleaner
from Red Line
The new SI-1 Complete Fuel System Cleaner
from Red Line contains the most powerful
high temperature detergent available to clean
fuel injectors, carburetors, and intake valves
to like-new efficiency. Fouled injector tips can
result in poor fuel spray patterns which cause
incomplete combustion which results in poorer
performance and fuel economy. Use of the SI-1
cleaner can restore both engine performance
and fuel economy by effectively cleaning up
deposits that form on the fuel injectors. Also, it
cleans intake valves, emission controls, intake
systems and prevents rust.
and has a thicker casting with a
wider friction surface area that will
allow for a higher heat capacity as
well as prolonging the life of the
clutch. The disc included in the kit
features organic friction materials
able to withstand increased heat
and abuse.
For more information please go to
www.advancedclutch.com
New TD Series amplifiers
from MTX Audio
For more information please go to
www.redlineoil.com
Clutch Kits for 1999-2001
Porsche 911 Carrera and
Carrera 4 from ACT
Advanced Clutch Technology (ACT) has just released performance
clutch kits for 1999-2001 Porsche 911 Carrera and Carrera 4. The
kits include a heavy-duty pressure plate, a choice of disc, release
bearing, pilot bearing and an alignment tool. The pressure plate has
a precision-stamped cover for maximum consistency and rigidity,
MTX Audio is now shipping its new TD Series of small chassis amplifiers that originally debuted at the 2012 Consumer Electronics Show.
The super small, yet high-powered, amps are perfect for people who
own smaller vehicles and don’t want to use up their already limited
space. The amplifiers are available in two-size mono blocks and a
single four-channel. They feature surface mount design that resists
vibration and an extruded aluminum heat sink that dissipates heat
effectively.
For more information please go to www.mtx.com
Vortech Supercharger
System for 2010-2011
Camaro SS
Vortech has released supercharger systems for the 2010-2011 Chevy
Camaro SS that come available as either a complete, fully calibrated
bolt-on, or as a tuner kit for custom installations. The system, which is
a V-3 SI-Trim self-lubricating supercharger, can add 47 percent more
horsepower than stock, which brings it up to 625 hp with 6.5-7.5 PSI at
the stock redline. It features a billet aluminum twin-plate supercharger
mounting bracket, a ten-rib supercharger drive with automatic belt
tensioner, and high-flow replacement fuel injectors.
For more information please go to www.vortechsuperchargers.com
NEW PRODUCT SHOWCASE
Auto AirTamer Air Purifier
achieve the ultimate tailored appearance, and come in vehicle-specific
kits to ensure the best possible fit.
The skins come available in a variety
of different colours, as well as different materials such as Diamond
Back Black, Cobra Black Heavy
Duty, Dragon Skin, Kevlar, Nomex,
Carbon Fibre, and 665 Hose Skin.
With the Auto AirTamer air purifier, drivers
will be able to breathe
cleaner, healthier air
while driving. When
plugged into any 12volt power socket in
your vehicle, the Air- For more information please go to
Tamer uses advanced www.hosecandy.com
electrostatic purification
technology to create
cleaner air by producing
healthy negative ions
that will force airborne
pollutants away from
your breathing space.
It works in total silence,
and doesn’t use filters. The AirTamer comes with an attachment for MBRP is pleased to announce the release of its Long Tube Headers
a vehicle’s air vent to utilize the fan’s power, increasing the cleaning for 2011-and-up Ford Mustang 5.0L. Once installed, the headers
will give the vehicle rich exhaust tones as well as big power gains
performance.
as compared to stock. The headers are also a good idea to support
additional add-ons such as nitrous,
For more information please go to www.airtamer.com
superchargers, or aftermarket
camshafts. They feature 1.875-inch
primary tubing, 3-inch merge-style
spike collectors, 3/8-inch laser-cut
head flanges, and include all of the
necessary mounting hardware.
New from Hose Candy by Oomph! Labs are a new line of Hose Skins
that can provide custom styling and enhanced performance. The For more information please go to
Hose Skins are designed to slide easily over stock or custom hoses to www.mbrpautomotive.com
MBRP Long Tube Headers
for 2011-12 Mustang
GT 5.0L
Hose Candy Introduces
Hose Skins
with
Custom Car
Builder
Troy Ladd
Presented by your local GRiP Tire Store
Visit them on the web at : www.griptire.ca
Story and photos by Jordan Allan
ne day, Troy Ladd decided he wasn’t made out to be a corporate
O
suit-and-tie guy, so he quit his job and used his life savings to
open a custom car shop named Hollywood Hot Rods, and seven years
later he was named “Builder of the Year” at the 2010 Grand National
Roadster Show. But before that, Troy had to sleep on his shop floor
at night and live on just one McDonald’s meal a day, just to survive.
To go from that to win such a prestigious award, with a Goodguys
‘Trendsetter of the Year’ at the 2007 SEMA Show and two ‘America’s
Most Beautiful Roadster’ runner-up cars in between, is an incredible
feat. We had a chance to sit and chat with Troy recently at the World
of Wheels show in Abbotsford, B.C.
RPM: So, how and when did you get started with Hollywood Hot Rods?
Troy Ladd: Hollywood Hot Rods was created in 2002. I thought of
it, created it, developed the marketing, and developed the business
so I could start as a legitimate business with branding, marketing
and a name. That allowed us to open on a larger image scale as
opposed to doing it the way most do. building cars in their garages
and building up from there. We did it backwards by starting with the
business before actually building cars.
RPM: What made you want to build cars for a living?
TL: It’s a sickness, an obsession you can’t shake if you’ve got it. I
was given a 1966 Mustang and didn’t have any money to fix it up.
So if you don’t have any money and it breaks down, what are you
going to do? You’ve got to learn. So once I learned how to work on
cars, I got into racing and became obsessed with saving every penny
to work on the car on the weekends. I would then go race or cruise
when I could, which developed into a sickness.
RPM: There are a ton of shops out there. What separates
what you do from everybody else?
TL: Any shop can bolt together or paint a shiny car, but very few
have developed an artistic style that is specific to that shop. We have
been able to develop that. We have a traditional style with modern
functions. ‘Vintage form with modern function’ is one of our mottos.
I’ve been able to develop the artistic end of it to the point where we’re
more known for our art rather than putting shiny parts together.
Mustang Fastback. Another that my fiancé and I had always wanted
to do and finally got the chance was her 1963 Comet Convertible.
It’s a rare but unusual car and she always wanted to do something
extravagant and really build a show stopper. So getting to do that
and having it on display at last year’s SEMA show was a pretty big
accomplishment.
RPM: Any big, upcoming projects that you are, or will
be, working on?
TL: We have about a dozen projects in the works right now. A couple
of neat ones we will be working on is a 1935 Packard concept vehicle,
which is a ‘40s era elegant car that is going to be still kind of a hot
rod. It’s a complete design out of our own heads that we have been
working on for years. Also, we’re doing this really cool ’40 Ford that
the owner plans to show for a year and then road race it. He also
plans to take it on an autocross which is different for a 1940 because
it’s a big, round car.
RPM: For cars that require audio, do you try and keep it
stock or use the latest and greatest technologies?
TL: Our upholsterer that we use exclusively works with a stereo
shop. They work together on the stereo and upholstery and can do
some pretty cool things. They can hide amps, sub–woofer boxes,
speakers and ports which I like better than when those things are too
RPM: We had heard that you like to use some European overwhelming. Those guys find ways to keep it classy.
parts on some of your builds.
RPM: To finish up a little off-topic, if we turned on your
TL: Yes and no. Probably more of a European style. Lately, with our car, what music would be playing?
traditional hot rods, there are a lot of European-influenced pieces that
we can use, from board-track cars to early sports cars, there is some TL: I would have the Circle Jerks, Sex Pistols, Dead Kennedys, The
really cool stuff we use in some of our hot rods to mix European and Cramps, Stevie Ray Vaughn. Also a lot of early jump blues and some
American styling. For example, we just did a roadster that had a lot outlaw country. So a mix of rock, country, and early jump blues.
of European influence, such as a wooden deck which is rare in North
America, but common in Europe.
RPM: What are some of the things that make one project
more difficult than another?
TL: It depends on what we’re allowed to do. We’re only allowed to
do as much as a customer is willing to pay. I have all of these extravagant ideas in my head that I would love to do, but I need to work
with somebody in order to bring it to fruition. So finding customers
that share a like-minded direction with us makes a job easier, but in
saying that, every car has its unique challenges.
RPM: Is there a car that you have yet to build that you
would like to, on a personal level?
TL: I think I would like to do a Mustang for myself because that
was my first car and I’ve always wanted to design a wild 1965 or 66
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]
She warned
him to slow
down going
over that
speed bump!
Wonder if the alarm still works.
R. Brosseau
Who
needs a
tow truck
when you
can do
this?
Real gold at
the end of a
rainbow.
8LIVI¾IGXMSRWMRXLMWRI[.EKYEV</67VITVIWIRXXLIZIV]FIWXSJ&VMXMWLGEVGEVITVSHYGXW
3RP]%YXSKP]QTVSZMHIWXLIRIGIWWEV]HITXLSJWLMRIXSQEOIXLMWTSWWMFPI
*SVSZIV]IEVW%YXSKP]QLEWQERYJEGXYVIHXLIQSWXEHZERGIHERHIJJIGXMZIGEV
GEVITVSHYGXWJVSQSYVLSQIMR0IXGL[SVXL+EVHIR'MX])RKPERH8LI%YXSKP]QVERKI
MWTVSHYGIHF]EXIEQSJHIHMGEXIHI\TIVXWJSVTISTPI[LSORS[XLEXSRP]%YXSKP]Q
TVSHYGXWGERHIPMZIVXLIIRHYVMRKUYEPMX]XLI]HIQERH
8LI%YXSKP]QVERKIHSIWRSXWXST[MXLNYWXTVSZMHMRKXLI½REPWLMRIMX[MPPEPWSGEVIJSV
ERHVIZMXEPM^I]SYV[LSPIZILMGPIMRWMHIERHSYX8LMWMW[L]%YXSKP]QMWEGORS[PIHKIH
F]QER]SJXLI[SVPH´WPIEHMRKGEVQERYJEGXYVIVWMRGPYHMRK.EKYEV%WXSR1EVXMR0EKSRHE
ERH&IRXPI]
*SVQSVIMRJSVQEXMSRZMWMXwww.autoglym.com
2S[I\GPYWMZIP]EZEMPEFPIEX'EREHMER8MVI

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