VagnerTransport.net – Advice on Car Safety and Anything Automotive

It’s simple to let life bring you down sometimes – driving around in an endless traffic jam on the right way to work, to school, for the grocery store – the car can easily become an extension of your office or of the home.

Let’s look at a few motors which can really place the fun back in driving – cars are not only about getting from A to B you understand, some of us could possibly have forgotten that people used to like to drive for driving sake.

Cadillac CTS-V Sport Wagon – on first glimpse you could be forgiven that thinking this stylish, elegant Sport Wagon is just another “run of the mill” family station wagon but there’s definitely more for this motor than meets the eye. Okay, there’s plenty of room for the family, their friends, the family dog, nappies and stroller but not only will it transport your brood from A to B in comfort it will likewise get them there in superfast (and of course safe) time. The motor features a supercharged V-8 6.2 liter engine with 556 hp, 6 speed manual transmission and over 550 lb-ft of torque. This model has “fun” as a standard feature. Hold on to your hats.

Jeep Wrangler – is fun personified with a different pace. It won’t get you there anywhere near as rapidly as the previous motor but it’s perfect for exploring the wilderness. When it comes to fording streams, rock crawling or sliding across the slippery mud then this is the real deal. You definitely need a car this way if this sounds like your concept of fun.

In case the Jeep Wrangler is a mountain lion then this is the desert rat of cars, ford SVT Raptor -. This vehicle can rip throughout the sand jumping dunes using a super suspension system which makes it almost comfortable, even at the most incredible speeds. It looks aggressive, it eats up the sand dunes as well as its unique suspension system makes it a real contender for some good clean (well, sort of clean) fun.

Ford Mustang GT – the 2014 model is the last of the bunch . . . with a solid rear axle perfect for burnouts, smoke shows and lighting up the rubber. The next generation will have advanced technology which will obviously have its advantages . . . along with a bunch of drawbacks. Will it be quite as exciting as this? Most likely not . . .

Nissan 370Z – this fantastic motor was designed with fun firmly in mind – the car is good for the driver who yearns for the fun car with a reasonable price tag. It provides oodles of power with lashings of torque available all the way through the power range which makes it super fast driving out of corners. It also handles like a dream . . . fast, fun, affordable . . . how much more do you need? Have a look at these and more great Nissans at metronissanredlands.com, you got that? Go to http://metronissanredlands.com and see what they’ve got – they’ve got brilliant selection of new and used cars with of course, some fabulous Nissans to choose from.

2014 SRT Viper – this beast is exceedingly tame and well trained to obey your every command. This car is undoubtedly not to the faint hearted – dare you make an attempt to master the 8.4 liter V-10 engine with 600 lb – ft of torque? Dare you push the 6 speed manual transmission to the squeeze and limits it until every drop of fun continues to be extracted? Continue on then but remember – drive carefully.

For GREAT deals on a new or used Nissan check out Nissan of Staten Island TODAY!

Daimler AG is sending fuel cell-powered Mercedes-Benz compacts on a 30,000-kilometer (18,600- mile) trip to show the best days for the 125-year-old German company aren’t necessarily behind it.

Former Formula One champion Michael Schumacher and racing colleagues Nico Rosberg and David Coulthard started the four- continent journey from Stuttgart in the weekend. Three B-Class models are visiting Lisbon before crossing North America and Australia. Before returning to Stuttgart early June, the trip’s final leg takes them from Shanghai to Moscow and Stockholm.

Daimler, which packed fuel cells into the back of a delivery van to produce the world’s first vehicle using that technology in 1994, is showcasing B-Class F-CELL to mark the invention from the first motor vehicles by founders Carl Benz and Gottlieb Daimler in 1886. Now under Chief Executive Officer Dieter Zetsche, the second-largest luxury-car maker is leaning on its past to take on Bayerische Motoren Werke AG and Volkswagen AG’s Audi.

---

For GREAT deals on a new or used Nissan check out Mossy Nissan Poway TODAY!

Visit the Metro Nissan Montclair Service Center for the latest specials on parts and maintenance!

For GREAT deals on a new or used Chevrolet check out Allen Gwynn Chevrolet TODAY!

The BMW Group (Munich, Germany) revealed more details about its forthcoming all-electric, composites-intensive i3 passenger vehicle in its annual report, issued on March 19. Norbert Reithofer, chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, says the first preseries BMW i3 rolled off the production line in January. Designed specifically to run with zero emissions in an urban environment, the commuter car will come onto the market by the end of the year. “Several hundred advance orders have already been received for the BMW i3,” adds Reithofer.

The BMW i3 sports a carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) passenger cell and an aluminum chassis and, says BMW, the vehicle sets new standards in the field of lightweight construction. BMW claims the i3 will be 250 to 350 kg (551 to 771 lb) lighter than a comparable electric car and has a range of about 150 km/93 miles per charge, which – based on experience gleaned from the MINI E and BMW Active E test fleets – is considered sufficient in most circumstances. Customers also can opt to increase the vehicle’s per-charge capability with a so-called Range Extender.

BMW also reports the production times are reduced significantly by employing unique manufacturing methods and significantly fewer parts, simplifying assembly. The BMW i3 reportedly will require only half the time necessary to produce a conventional automobile.

For GREAT deals on a new or used Nissan check out Antelope Valley Nissan TODAY!

Automotive fascination and high tech of the highest order – these are the characteristics embodied from the new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. The super sports car boasts a purist design, consistent lightweight design, superior driving dynamics and exemplary safety.

The newest super sports vehicle from Mercedes-Benz and AMG dazzles having its unparalleled technology package: an aluminium space-frame bodyshell with gullwing doors; an AMG 6.3-litre, front-mid V8 engine with 420 kW/571 hp peak output, 650 Nm of torque, and dry sump lubrication; seven-speed dual-clutch transmission in a transaxle configuration; and sports suspension with aluminium double-wishbones. It’s a unique combination that guarantees supreme driving dynamics. The car’s ideal weight distribution involving the front and rear axles (47 to 53 percent respectively), its low centre of gravity and DIN kerb weight of 1,620 kilograms emphasize the outstanding sports vehicle concept. The Gullwing model accelerates from to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds and has a top speed of 317 km/h (electronically limited). The fuel consumption of 13.2 litres per 100 kilometres (combined) is best-in-class (all values provisional).

Design: Purist, distinctive, and passionate

The purist design of the brand new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG dazzles with its passionate sportiness and reinterprets the breathtaking design of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL. The stylistic highlight is without a doubt the gullwing doors, which impart the SLS AMG with incomparable charisma. The long bonnet, the reduced greenhouse positioned far back, and the short rear with all the extendable rear spoiler symbolise dynamics, as do the long wheelbase, the wide track, and the large wheels. It is not only the gullwing doors that awaken reminiscences of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL. The wide radiator grille with the large Mercedes star, the wing-like cross fin on the bonnet and the vehicle flanks are also reminiscent of the legendary sports car.

Aviation engineering provided the inspiration towards the Mercedes-Benz designers for the interior. The characteristic styling feature is the dashboard, whose powerful and dramatic wing-shape creates an impression of width. The 4 prominent dashboard air vents with their adjustable, cruciform nozzles are reminiscent of a jet’s engines. The elongated centre console manufactured from solid matt metal also takes up the plane cockpit theme. Amongst other things, the centre console incorporates the AMG DRIVE UNIT, which enables SLS proprietors to customise their vehicle set-up. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission is operated by means of the E-SELECT lever, which resembles a jet’s thrust control. Inspite of the low seating position typical of a sports car, the wide opening gullwing doors ensure easy entry and exit. The gullwing doors require less room to open than do conventional coupe doors and can be completely opened in standard sized garages.

Aluminium space frame for light weight and highest strength

The SLS is taking a brand new approach in the body concept. For the first time ever, Mercedes-Benz and AMG are presenting an automobile, whose chassis and body are made of aluminium. This can lead to significant weight savings in comparison to the traditional steel construction, as shown through the car’s DIN kerb weight of only 1,620 kilograms. The newly developed aluminium space-frame bodyshell combines intelligent, lightweight design with high strength – and consequently benefits the wonderful handling dynamics. The aluminium space frame is 45 per cent aluminium profiles, 31 per cent aluminium panelling, 20 per cent cast aluminium and four percent steel. The usage of ultra high-tensile, hot-rolled steel in the A-pillars provides a further increase in occupant safety. The shell weighs 241 kilograms – a definite peak value in the super sports car segment. The highest possible degree of passive safety is guaranteed for the occupants by the vehicle’s standard equipment, which includes three-point seatbelts, seat-belt tensioners, belt force limiters, and eight airbags.

Further-developed AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine having an output of 420 kW/571 hp

The heart of your SLS is a powerful eight-cylinder engine with dry sump lubrication. The AMG 6.3-litre V8 produces 420 kW/571 hp at 6,800 rpm and develops a maximum torque of 650 Nm at 4,750 rpm. The SLS accelerates from to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds and it has an electronically limited top speed of 317 km/h (all figures are preliminary). The SLS AMG consumes 13.2 litres per 100 kilometres (combined, preliminary figure). Efficiency-enhancement measures include not only the LDS cylinder bore linings but also a desire-based fuel delivery and the recovery of braking energy.

The AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine delivers its capability to the rear axle via a dual-clutch transmission permanently connected to the engine housing using a torque tube. A carbon shaft rotates at engine speed inside the torque tube. Power transfer is via the newest AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT seven-speed sports transmission. This dual-clutch transmission boasts fast gear changes without interruption of tractive force and offers four driving modes. The mechanical differential lock guarantees optimum traction.

Sophisticated chassis layout with double-wishbone suspension

All four wheels are guided on dual A-arms with track rod. The A-arms, the steering knuckles and hub carriers at the front and rear axles are constructed with aluminium. The Gullwing model comes with a 3-stage ESP® as standard. The AMG high-performance brake system with composite brake discs on the front axle ensures short braking distances. Better yet braking performance is offered with the optional ceramic-composite brake system. Weight-optimised AMG light alloy wheels in accordance with the new, innovative flow-forming principle, 9.5 x 19 inches at the front end, and 11. x 20 inch with the rear, are fitted with 265/35 R 19 tyres up front and 295/30 R 20 tyres at the rear.

The reinterpretation of the Gullwing model will celebrate its market launch in spring 2010. The price will be 177,310 euros (incl. 19% VAT).

New Gullwing model with purely electric high-tech drive system: The electrical Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG concept car – the exciting future of the super sports vehicle

Mercedes AMG is paving the way ahead. In the form of the newest SLS AMG with electric drive, the performance brand within Mercedes-Benz Cars is developing a fascinating super sports vehicle with a zero-emission high-tech drive system. With this model, Mercedes-Benz and AMG are displaying their expertise in the development of alternative drive solutions for high-performance super sports cars, delivering further proof of their pioneering status in this market segment.

The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG with electric drive transforms the vision of powerful and locally emission-free super sports cars into reality as a result of an innovative drive system. Powerful forward thrust is provided by four electric motors having a combined peak output of 392 kW along with a maximum torque of 880 Nm. The 4 electric motors are positioned near the wheels, substantially reducing the unsprung masses compared to wheel-hub motors. One transmission per axle transmits the power. This intelligent all-wheel drive system allows dynamically optimised power transmission with no losses by using torque vectoring – put simply the specific, targeted acceleration of individual wheels. In its first, pilot phase, the SLS AMG with electric drive incorporates a liquid-cooled, high-voltage lithium-ion battery of modular design with an energy content of 48 kWh and a capacity of 40 Ah. The 400-volt battery is charged by means of targeted regeneration during braking whilst the car is being driven.

Acceleration from zero to 100 km/h in around 4 seconds

In terms of dynamics, the electrically driven SLS AMG delivers an unequivocal statement: The Gullwing model accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in around 4 seconds, putting it on the same high level because the SLS AMG with a 6.3-litre V8 engine developing 420 kW/571 hp.

“With the SLS AMG with electric drive, we desired to redefine the super sports car. For us, it is not only an issue of responsibility. We attach as much importance to fascination and classic AMG performance,” says Volker Mornhinweg, Chief Executive Officer of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

Optimal weight distribution and low centre of gravity

The purely electric drive system was factored into the equation as early as the reasoning phase if the new Gullwing model was being developed by Mercedes-Benz and AMG. It can be ideally packaged for the integration of high-performance, zero-emission technology. By way of example, the four electric motors along with the two transmissions can be positioned near the wheels and very low down from the vehicle. The same is applicable to the modular high-current battery, whose modules are located while watching bulkhead, within the centre tunnel and behind the seats. Advantages of this solution add the vehicle’s low centre of gravity and also the balanced weight distribution – ideal conditions for optimum handling, which the electrically powered SLS AMG shares with its petrol-driven sister model.

Key data at a glance:

Peak output: 392 kW

Torque: 880 Nm

-100 km/h: Approx. 4 sec.

Rated capacity: 40 Ah (at 400 V)

Energy content: 3x 16 kWh = 48 kWh

Installing the drive components required no changes whatsoever on the Gullwing model’s aluminium space-frame bodyshell. And there were equally as few constraints when it arrived at maintaining the wonderful level of passive safety and degree of long-distance comfort that happen to be hallmarks of Mercedes cars.

Strategic alliance for fast electrification from the car

With all the electrically powered SLS AMG, Mercedes-Benz and AMG are continuing to pursue their aim of minimizing the amount of time it will take to bring regarding the electrification from the car. The strategic involvement in Deutsche Accumotive GmbH & Co. KG, a joint venture between Daimler AG and Evonik Industries AG, will provide the battery technology required in future. Daimler has the leading role in this joint venture, whose mission is to develop and produce batteries and battery systems for automotive applications.

For GREAT deals on a new or used Vehicles check out Wilson Automotive TODAY!

BMW has released details of its new Concept 4 Series Coupe, following on in the successful 3 Series Coupe and Convertible. The BMW Concept 4 Series Coupe, “adds a fresh dimension on the qualities from the BMW 3 Series Coupe in terms of aesthetics, elegance and dynamics.” The Concept 4 Series Coupe will make its debut in 2013 on the Detroit Motor Show.

BMW Concept 4 Series Coupe is a style master

Unfortunately BMW has not yet revealed powertrain specifications to the Concept 4 Series Coupe but these details will become available when it makes its debut at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show. When compared to the 3 Series Coupe, the Concept 4 Series Coupe has a 50mm longer wheelbase, while the front track has grown by 45mm and the rear by 80mm. The Concept 4 Series Coupe is 1.826m wide which is 44mm wider than the 3 Series Coupe. Its roofline is likewise 16mm lower at a height of 1.362m and is longer at 4.641m.

From the outside, the reasoning 4 Series takes on both elegant and sporty proportions. The front-end includes a BMW kidney grille with circular headlights with a slim, sporty design. The kidney grille is closed off and away to enhance aerodynamics and fuel efficiency as well as the areas involving the satin-finish grille slats are blanked off by dark surfaces. The entire-LED headlights are hexagonal in shape and give a new perspective on BMW’s twin circular headlight design.

The larger front air intake in the front apron is surely an eye-catching feature while the two vent surrounds on each side of the intake replicate the contours in the hexagonal headlights graphics. The intake is finished with three satin-finish trim elements.

In the rear, the stretched tail lights emphasise the width and muscular nature from the Concept 4 Series Coupe. The inner rear-light elements form the BMW signature ‘double L’ in 3-D. The rear bumper, in satin-finish aluminium, defines the rear-end and adopts the same three-way split like the front air intake and incorporates the two exhaust tailpipes. The outside is finished in Liquid Metal Silver and was specifically developed for the idea.

Interior styling has the driver in mind

The inside of the Concept 4 Series Coupe is intently dedicated to the driver with the controls grouped ergonomically around the driver. The inside design takes on a ‘layering’ approach where volumes are arranged into layers with the aid of surfaces and lines. This approach underpins the dynamic feel from the Concept 4 Series Coupe’s interior.

This strategy is used throughout and continues into the door design, side walls and window sills with lines streaking towards the rear, emphasising the driving cabin. This strategy gives passengers the feeling being in a cocoon while the rear seats appear like two individual seats joined together.

The inside, developed by BMW Individual, features two-tone Black and Schiaparelli Brown leather trim with light contrasting stitching. ‘BMW Individual’ lettering is located on the seats and door sill strips and the seats feature hand-braided leather trim elements which run vertically down the seats, increasing the sense of class. The leather cup floor and holders mats adopt the same braided theme. The inner is finished off with a Natural Chestnut fine wood trim strip.

For GREAT deals on a new or used Nissan check out O’Neil Nissan TODAY!

We’re located in tough economic times. Most Americans happen to be required to significantly reduce their budgets considering that the financial disaster from the mid 2000s. Perhaps you can’t afford that European vacation you’ve been longing to adopt this current year, but that doesn’t mean you can’t channel some chic style from over the pond! Drawing inspiration from Europeanfood and fashion, and design will bring new color to your life! Here are a few ideas that can help you find your joie de vivre without breaking the bank.

Dress the Part

Europeans provide impeccable style. From Channel to Gucci, a lot of the world’s iconic design houses operate away from Europe. While many might think that every Parisian includes a closet filled up with designer duds, most Europeans do their shopping at chain stores, the same as us! What sets their style apart is attention to fit plus a preference for timeless elegance. Europeans know they can develop a wardrobe depending on affordable pieces, like slim jeans and light-weight blazers from stores for example H&M, should they invest the small amount of money and time it will require to have those pieces altered to put. Americans don’t have nearly the identical appreciation for the ability of tailoring that Europeans do. But we must! Those cheap jeans from Target may be completely transformed for less than $20.00 at the disposal of a qualified seamstress. Sharp dressers through the other side of your pond also seem less thinking about trend dressing than most Americans. They know that fads come and go, but classic simplicity endures. Take a note from European fashion plates, and skip the most recent runway craze. Instead, invest your money in quality, daily wardrobe staples that will last, such as a great trench coat or cashmere sweater. Go from sloppy to standout with lasting, well tailored looks pulled straight from the streets of Europe!

Get Cooking

If thoughts of the luscious soufflé or perfectly cooked homemade pasta help make your mouth water, then don’t hold off until next time you’re capable to cross the Atlantic to indulge. It provides never been simpler or even more reasonable for experiment in the kitchen area than it is inside the Information Age. You don’t must spend your cash on expensive cooking classes or cookbooks that gather dust about the shelves. YouTube is an endless resource for cooking tutorials that can walk you through each step of any recipe. Keep your money for a trip to the food store, and bring the bistro in your kitchen table!

Indulge in Design

While there are several ways to scrimp with the budget, sometimes it’s worth buying for quality. This is particularly true with bigger items, like furniture or a car. Stop wasting dough on that old clunker and consider upgrading to a efficient new car, just like the Fiat 500c from www.ocfiat.com. These Italian beauties are made to last. Just browse the models listed at http://www.ocfiat.com and you’ll notice that quality is worth the cost.

For GREAT deals on a new or used Nissan check out STAR NISSAN OF BAYSIDE TODAY!

Chevrolet is weighing in about the eternal battle of east coast versus west coast with two new special-edition 2015 Corvette Stingray models. If you’re in the market for a number of stylistic upgrades to your ‘Vette, these models bring it, but are otherwise mechanically identical to the standard car.

f02632419b 2015 Chevrolet Corvette Atlantic Pacific Design Package 001 Chevy Corvette goes coastal with Atlantic, Pacific design packagesFirst previewed on the 2013 SEMA Show in conceptual form, the luxury-focused Corvette Atlantic convertible (inset, right) is ready for the drive from the shore having a blend of added luxury and aggressive style. The package adds a front splitter inspired by the Z06 and chrome wheels. It also repaints the vents, hood stinger and tonneau cover trim in Shark Grey, along with the model comes with a set of custom luggage. The Atlantic can be purchased in any of the sports car’s available colors.

The Pacific coupe (above) applies to a much more aggressive look, and Chevy says its inspiration comes from track day drivers. It features unpainted carbon fiber in the side strakes, roof panel, rear interior, spoiler, mirrors and badges trim. To lend a little more menace, it also features a satin black racing stripe down the hood, red brake satin and calipers black wheels with a red stripe about them. The interior gets matching black or red sport seats. The package is available in TorchBlack and Red, Arctic White, Blade Silver and Shark Gray, and it comes with an automobile cover.

Both models are only offered on Corvettes ordered with the Z51 performance package, but they are available with either the new eight-speed automatic or seven-speed manual transmissions. They go on sale later this year with the rest of the 2015 Corvettes. Chevy hasn’t announced pricing to them yet, so stay tuned. In the meantime, scroll down to understand more about these sports cars in addition to their coastal inspirations.

For GREAT deals on a new or used Nissan check out Mossy Nissan National City TODAY!