Sunday, August 15, 2010

Ford Focus

Ford Focus ImagesWolf Ford Focus ST


Virtually every trim package has been revised for the 2010 Ford Focus. Ford has decided to offer practically an overhauled version of every model vehicle it makes in the last couple of years. The most pleasing aspect for consumers to consider is the extremely low cost of maintenance, along with minimal initial purchase price. Trim packages available include the S, SE, SEL, and SES. Coupes and sedan body styles are both offered, with only sedans coming in all four trim packages. The basic S package comes with basic power accessories, 15 inch steel wheels, AC, and an optional satellite radio. Available on SE models are a lot more options. For a mid-level trim package, the SE models come with relatively limited options being offered. SEL models come with chrome exterior highlights, complete leather seating, heated mirrors, enhanced suspensions, and optional heated front seats. SES trim packages are offered with 17 inch allow wheels, more enhanced body styling, highway tuned suspension. The only engine offered for the 2010 Ford Focus is the 2.0 liter inline four cylinder that can give 140 horsepower. Most models will receive between 24 mpg city and 35 mpg highway for manual transmission equipped vehicles. Models that have the automatic transmission lose approximate 2 mpg in both city and highway driving.



A unique feature of these vehicles is the ability of parents to set limits for vehicle speed and stereo volume levels. The purpose of these controls is to make teens focus on driving, eliminating most distractions and dangerous activities. For frontal crash test ratings the 2010 Ford Focus received a 4 star rating, while side impact tests received a perfect score. The scores fall in line with most vehicles in the small sedan class.





Possibly the most pleasant aspect of these cars is night time driving. For consumers who only need a budget style small sedan that is more adept at fitting their financial situation than crazy desires, the 2010 Ford Focus will do just fine. Engine performance is probably the most limiting factor of the Focus.





The Ford Focus has a known problem regarding the ignition. The key itself might get stuck in the ignition, or you may have to jiggle the ignition in order to have it turn - a sure sign that you should have a professional replace the ignition. Many consumers feel that the general cause of this ignition switch problem is due to poorly manufactured parts by Ford. The manner in which the Ford Focus ignition communicates with the car's computer is via the Transponder microchip, which is located directly within your car key, so replacing the ignition switch can be a highly complex operation, and is exactly why professional installation is strongly recommended. Ford Focus owners need not despair! Fuel efficiency in the 2010 Ford Focus runs a bit lower than one might expect for such a compact car. The Focus comes in two options: a 2.0L 4-cylinder model with a manual five-speed transmission, and the typical 4-speed automatic. Both models get 24 mpg in city driving. The manual gets 35 mpg on the highway, while the automatic gets 34 mpg. Slow acceleration remains one of the easiest ways to improve fuel economy in any car. For drivers wanting a sharp, small ride with front-wheel drive and moderately good fuel economy, the 2010 Ford Focus offers a good package in either manual or automatic.


Sunday, August 1, 2010

Ford Mustang Race Car

Ford Mustang Race Car2003 Ford Mustang Fastback

I had the opportunity to test drive the improved 2011 Ford Mustang at Ford's race track in Dearborn, Michigan recently and can tell you that both the V8 and V6 models are a lot of fun.

Pony Rivalry

Released in 2005, the current version of the Mustang had a significant mid-cycle upgrade for the 2010 model year, but one glaring problem remained: the aged 4.0L V6 with a measly 210 horsepower output was unchanged. This immediately put the 'Stang at a disadvantage to the all new Chevrolet Camaro which was making its return after an eight year absence.

Suddenly, the Ford pony car was playing second fiddle to its chief rival, something Ford technicians vowed to overcome for the 2011 model year.

And that they have.

Hot Engines

The V8 engine has been improved and is worth considering if you want that much power. Fuel economy isn't bad--26 miles to the gallon highway--but my thinking is that the new V6 will be enough for many drivers.

The V6 engine chosen should be familiar to owners of the Lincoln MKS and Ford Taurus, especially if they chose the 3.7L EcoBoost motor. That engine, featuring twin fuel induction and turbocharged power, enables the Mustang to enjoy 305 horses and 280 lb.-ft. of torque. Significantly, the Mustang does all that and more while squeezing out 31 miles to the gallon highway.

Yes, you read that right: 31 mpg. The same mileage offered by a Kia Forte equipped with a 2.4L I4 engine. Simply impressive.

Ford manages to do that thanks to an optional six-speed slushbox which is actually more efficient than the standard six-speed manual. Electric power steering also helps out, allowing the Ford to operate without the drag of a hydraulic power steering pump. Ford worked overtime to make sure that the Mustang was efficient without sacrificing power; I can tell you that this V6 does not disappoint!

Stylish Interior

But the goodness isn't just under the hood. The slick styling of the Mustang is back while the interior is comfortable, well designed and attractive. But for someone whose six foot frame is often strained when wedged into a smaller car, the shoulder, hip, head and leg room of the Mustang is sufficient.
Improved interior sound dampening is noted, but thankfully it did not tune out the sweet hum of the exhaust. Pony car enthusiasts expect some noise including the screech of the tires, roar of the engine and the whoosh enjoyed when harnessing lower end torque. Limiting those attributes would defeat the purpose of owning a Mustang, something Ford engineers were careful not to do.

The instrument cluster for the 2011 Mustang has been improved and now features a 160 mph speedometer and 8000 rpm tachometer. MyKey is also available, allowing parents to limit the temptation young drivers face to let her rip. Parents, just don't turn the Mustang into a Focus...let your children enjoy at least some of the thrills!

In all, the 2011 Ford Mustang V6 is hot. Even the standard model retailing for just over $22K offers much including 17 inch painted aluminum wheels, premium sound system and stainless steel dual exhaust. Value priced and offering a lot of punch for the price!

Top 5 Ferrari Cars List

Ferrari California Stylish and VersatileFerrari California

Competition on the car market is huge. With over 20 car manufacturers and various models, it's definitely not a gap in the market. Ferrari however, has a huge automobile history. Ferraris are pure emotion. They aren't most reliable, one of the cheapest or practicable. But every Ferrari driver probably agrees that they are the best cars in the world. So which Ferrari gives you the most thrills?

5. Ferrari 612 Scaglietti

It has an engine providing 533HP, a maximum speed of 315 km/h. It's biggest feature that sets it apart: it has four seats. It's still not a family car though, it will cost you EUR300,000 to purchase and if used as an everyday car about EUR10,000 per year to maintain.

4. Ferrari 550 Maranello

It has an front V12 engine with an maximum speed of 323 km/h. Beautiful curves and nice a beautiful interior. It's not the best or most recent Ferrari but will give you a huge thrill. Why? Because it costs EUR70,000 if you search right, and maintenance average is lower than the 612. Biggest maintenance post is that the car eats tyres for breakfast.

3. Ferrari California

Central front engine with maximum speed of 310 km/h. First Ferrari car with dual clutch and most recent Ferrari released. The California is the most aerodynamic Ferrari yet. It costs EUR140.000 and average maintenance costs are unknown

2. Ferrari F430

Ferrari's new race car, replaced the 360 in 2005. It has a maximum speed of 317 km/h and is sold starting from EUR180.000. Remarkable is that it's the official car of the Ferrari race classes and the car is rumored to be replaced soon.

1. Ferrari Enzo (FXX)

A car is really good if Ferrari names it after its founder Enzo Ferrari. The Enzo FXX is a project still going, with the car getting updates still. The Enzo FXX is sold only when you're chosen by Ferrari and changes owner for about EUR1,300,0000. Maintenance is huge, about EUR40,000 per year. But everyone will look at you when you drive one, guaranteed. And when it's dark out... I dare you to take it out for a spin.