Category: Sedans & Coupes

May 16

The Science Behind Slick Tires on Performance Vehicles

Introduction to Slick Tires

Advancements in tire technology have broadened the range of options available, from specialized rain tires that effectively disperse water to versatile all-season tires. Yet, you might have observed that high-performance vehicles, particularly muscle cars, often sport wide, slick tires or drag radials under their rear fenders. This choice is deeply rooted in racing history and is not due to cost-cutting or maintenance oversight.

Performance Advantages of Slick Tires

Slick tires, including brands like Hoosiers or Mickey Thompson drag radials, are commonly found on powerful cars such as vintage Dodge Chargers or contemporary Chevrolet Camaro ZL1s. These tires are designed to maximize contact with the racetrack surface, thereby enhancing grip. This is crucial for achieving quick launches and maintaining traction in high-horsepower, rear-wheel-drive vehicles, helping drivers shave critical seconds off their drag racing times. Notably, models like the Dodge SRT Demon come factory-equipped with these specialty tires to optimize performance right from the start.

Limitations and Safety Concerns

While slick tires are exceptional for dry, track conditions, offering superior grip and efficient heat dissipation, they are impractical and often unsafe for regular street use. The absence of tread patterns, which are vital for channeling away water, makes slick tires highly unsafe in wet conditions. This can dramatically increase the risk of hydroplaning and accidents during rain. Therefore, despite their performance benefits, slick tires are not suitable for everyday driving due to significant safety concerns and potential legal restrictions.

May 16

Exploring the Thrill of the 2025 Aston Martin Vantage: A New Era of Performance

Reimagining Power and Poise

The 2025 Aston Martin Vantage heralds a bold new era for the iconic British sports car, trading its classic V12 for a potent AMG-sourced 4.0L twin-turbocharged V8, delivering a robust 656 horsepower. This engine swap marks a significant shift from the traditional but ensures the car loses none of its renowned dynamism. Despite some purists’ initial skepticism over the absence of a V12, the Vantage’s enhanced specifications and performance quickly dispel any doubts about its capabilities.

Aesthetic and Mechanical Evolution

The latest iteration of the Vantage not only impresses with raw power but also through its refined design and engineering enhancements. Sporting a sleek, aggressive facade and a chassis that’s 7% stiffer than its predecessor, the new Vantage is built to excel both on the road and the racetrack. This model is more than just a continuation of its lineage; it’s a redefinition, offering 128 more horsepower than the previous V8 models and ensuring a more visceral driving experience.

An Aston Martin Vantage gets sideways on a track.
The 2025 Aston Martin Vantage | Aston Martin

Track-Tested, Adrenaline Approved

During an exhilarating test drive on Spain’s Circuito Monteblanco, automotive journalist Mat Watson experienced firsthand the sheer exhilaration the new Vantage offers. As Watson navigated through sharp turns and long straights, the car demonstrated its exceptional handling and power, occasionally getting sideways with a surge of throttle. This performance underscores the Vantage’s evolution into a more aggressive and engaging sports car, ready to leave a lasting impression on both enthusiasts and critics.

Additional Insights for the Reader:

For those considering the 2025 Aston Martin Vantage, it’s important to understand the impact of the shift from a V12 to a twin-turbo V8. While it maintains an exceptional power output, the change also offers improved efficiency and responsiveness. Additionally, the car’s design enhancements not only contribute to its aesthetic appeal but also improve aerodynamic efficiency, which is crucial for achieving its top speed of 202 mph and accelerating from 0-60 mph in just 3.4 seconds. For potential buyers, these changes make the Vantage not just a symbol of luxury, but a beacon of modern sports car engineering.

2025 Aston Martin Vantage
Engine 4.0L twin-turbocharged V8
Horsepower/Torque 656 hp, 590 lb-ft
Transmission Eight-speed automatic
Curb weight 3,750 lbs
0-60 mph 3.4 seconds
Top speed 202 mph
Starting price $194,400
May 15

Seeking a Classier Alternative to a Ford Mustang? Explore These GT Cars

 

Introduction to GT Cars

GT cars seamlessly blend practicality with style, offering a refined alternative to the robust Ford Mustang. While the Mustang is often celebrated for its grand touring credentials, including a spacious trunk, comfortable cabin, rear seats, powerful front-mounted engine, and rear-wheel drive, some luxury-focused travelers might seek a more prestigious badge. Fortunately, several posh grand tourers can fulfill this desire without significantly exceeding the cost of a new Mustang.

Affordable Luxury GT Alternatives

For those desiring a luxury grand tourer without a hefty price tag, several excellent options are available:

BMW 4 Series (F32 Generation) The F32 BMW 4 Series coupe is a solid alternative to the Mustang. While the 435i trim’s 300-horsepower 3.0L inline six-cylinder may not match the Mustang GT’s 480-horsepower 5.0L V8, its 4.5-second sprint to 60 mph ensures an exhilarating drive. Additionally, a 2015 BMW 435i xDrive is valued at around $17,000, making it an affordable choice.

Audi S5 (B8 Generation) The pre-2012 B8 Audi S5 features a naturally aspirated 4.2L FSI V8, providing a throaty V8 experience akin to the Mustang. With 354 horsepower and a price well under $15,000, the B8 S5 stands out as a cost-effective yet powerful alternative.

A Jaguar XK from the X150 generation shows off its GT car fascia.
An X150 Jaguar XK | National Motor Museum, Heritage Images via Getty Images

Opulent GT Choices

For those willing to invest a bit more, these grand tourers offer unmatched luxury and performance:

Jaguar XK (X150 Generation) The X150 Jaguar XK is perhaps the epitome of opulence, boasting a 4.2L V8 engine, with a supercharged variant available. Although it lacks a manual transmission, the post-facelift models feature 5.0L engines similar to those in Mustang GTs, combining power with elegance.

Maserati GranTurismo For the bold, the first-generation Maserati GranTurismo offers a thrilling drive with its 454-horsepower V8 and iconic trident badge. While maintenance costs can be high, the allure of owning a Maserati for less than the price of a new Mustang GT is undeniable.

Conclusion

While the Ford Mustang remains a strong contender in the GT segment, these alternatives offer luxury and performance for discerning drivers. Whether it’s the affordable elegance of the BMW 4 Series, the robust Audi S5, the luxurious Jaguar XK, or the daring Maserati GranTurismo, there’s a grand tourer to suit every taste and budget. Share your thoughts in the comments below on which GT car you’d choose as your classy Mustang alternative.

May 15

‘You’re Pulling Us All Over’ State Trooper Surprised by Entire Car Club Sticking Together

Enthusiasts shows support for a buddy flagged by authorities.

A few days ago, a clip of a local car club driving together on the freeway broke loose. In the vid, a state trooper is seen turning their lights on toward the front of the pack. The officer picks out a Chevrolet Camaro.

Clearly, the filmer is stunned and upset by the trooper’s actions. What happens next, though, likely stunned the officer.

The entire group, mainly Dodge enthusiasts, heads to the shoulder with their buddy. From the looks of it, more than a dozen members of the car club were present. Initially, the filmer is completely disappointed and worried for the friend. Then, after realizing the team is sticking together, he offers excited words of support for the “fallen” driver.

A black Dodge Charger sedan driving on a paved road next to a concrete wall facing left in profile view
Andrii Baidak via iStock

The group moves to pull off to the side of an exit ramp. The team is so large that they have trouble preventing a log jam.

Humorously, a black Honda Accord is filed into the pack. It’s a bit of an outlier, no?

As expected, social commentary is mixed. Many are emotional over the supportive act. Others criticize the move as a possible threat to the officer. Some point out how the decision stopped the flow of traffic.

Undeniably, though, this is proof that the car club wasn’t going to continue their drive without the whole roster. As one commenter posted, “You leave here together, you come back together.”

Apr 26

The 2025 Toyota Camry Demonstrates That the Toyota Sedan Refuses to Die

The new 2025 Toyota Camry is an all-hybrid, face-lifted affair that refuses to go the way of the Avalon.

The Toyota Camry is an institution in the United States. Hell, the Camry has been cruising American streets and knocking out errands for domestic Toyota drivers since the early 1980s. However, the 2025 Toyota Camry hits the streets without showing signs of slowing down or stopping. In fact, the 2025 model proves that the Toyota sedan changes with the times.

The 2025 Toyota Camry continues strong beyond the lifespan of the Avalon with a hybrid-only lineup

The 2025 Toyota Camry is back with a new look inside and out. Gone is the Camry’s post-facelift aesthetic in favor of an expansive grille and sculpted fascia features. It’s a welcome update from the seventh-generation Camry and its seven-year stretch.

Of course, the most significant update in the 2025 Toyota Camry story is the all-hybrid lineup for the new model year. Unlike the 2024 model, the new Camry ditches the non-hybridized four-cylinder option and the 301-horsepower V6 in the TRD and lower trims. It also means less variety for fans of the Toyota sedan model. For instance, the 2024 model year offered more than twice as many trims as the upcoming 2025 Camry and its four hybrid options.

Model Starting price
Camry LE $29,495
Camry SE $31,795
Camry XLE $34,495
Camry XSE $35,695

However, some things remain the same for the Camry, even as the model gets an update. The LE and SE remain the most affordable options for car shoppers. Moreover, the XLE and XSE stay in the mix, proving that the “X” stands for “X-tra luxury.” Specifically, the XLE and XSE add leather aplenty, heated surfaces, extra noise insulation, and ambient lighting over the lower-trim Camrys.

A blue 2025 Toyota Camry XLE sedan cruises down a city street.
The 2025 Toyota Camry XLE | Toyota

Sure, the Camry lost another ranking among the Japanese brand’s top-sellers to the popular RAV4 compact SUV. However, Toyota claims the new Camry will get upwards of 51 mpg combined for the 2025 model year. While that’s not quite Prius numbers, it’s more than enough to establish the all-hybrid Toyota Camry as one of the most efficient sedans in the segment. Better yet, the hybrid platform is more powerful than last year. All-wheel drive (AWD) models will produce as much as 232 horsepower, a 24-horsepower improvement over the previous generation. Of course, it’s a far cry from the 301 ponies in the now-extinct 3.5L V6.

Apr 22

Mazda Miata MSRP Crosses $30k Mark, Sales Plummet

Introduced in 1989, the Mazda Miata has been the quintessential affordable sports car for decades. Originally, its soft top configuration and I4/stick shift powertrain made it cheap to make while maintaining good handling in the twisties. But Mazda has been slowly adding features and the cost of building the car has gone up. In the past couple years there have been some big shifts in the Miata’s cost–and sales numbers.

The MX-5 Miata carved out a small but devoted niche of roadster enthusiasts. It’s been a very consistent seller for years. For example, during 2018, 2019, and 2020, Mazda sold about 8,000 Miatas.

The best Miata sales year in recent history was 2021. Back then, folks were stuck in quarantine with only driving as an escape and so car sales went sky high. Mazda sold 10,470 roadsters that year. In 2022, that number dropped to 6,172 cars. When Miata sales climbed back to 8,973 units in 2023, it was a 45% year-over-year increase.

By 2023, manual transmission sales had climbed from their all-time-low below 1% to 1.7%. There seemed to be a resurgence of simples sports cars, so it probably felt like a good time to be Mazda. perhaps this is why the automaker tacked the biggest increase in years on to the Miata’s MSRP.

At the beginning of 2023, the Miata’s MSRP was $28,050. This number climbed a bit with mid-year price bumps. Then for the 2024 model year, Mazda slapped another $935 on to the price of its base trim. The result was a MSRP of $30,150.

Mazda doesn’t sell a ton of its little convertibles in the winter. But this year has been especially bad. Mazda sold 389 Miatas in January 2024 (down from 724 last year), 436 in February (compare that with 783 lat year), and 436 in March (vs 1,083). Last year, March, April, and May were the MX-5’s big months.

We’ll have to wait and see whether the Miata’s Q1 sales numbers are an odd anomaly, part of a downward trend, or just the latest chapter in a roller coaster couple of years.

Apr 21

The 2024 Cadillac CT4: Revolutionizing Cost-Effective Luxury in Sedans

Elevated Luxury: The Enhanced Appeal of the Cadillac CT4

The 2024 Cadillac CT4 surpasses conventional luxury sedan standards by merging cost-effectiveness with unparalleled elegance. As a standout in the luxury car arena, the CT4 impresses with its generous interior space and vigorous performance, particularly evident in the CT4-V Blackwing version. Its consistent high ratings for quality and value make it a preferred choice for sophisticated car buyers.

The 2024 CT4-V Blackwing offers more power
2024 Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing | Cadillac

Dynamic Performance Across Diverse Preferences

The CT4’s charm extends through its adaptable performance features, tailored to suit varied driving tastes. This model includes three engine options, beginning with the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that delivers 237 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The apex model, the CT4-V Blackwing, amplifies excitement with a turbocharged 3.6-liter V6 engine, which boasts 472 horsepower and 445 lb-ft of torque, propelling it from 0 to 60 mph in merely 3.9 seconds.

Proven Reliability and Compelling Design Features

The 2024 Cadillac CT4 is highly regarded for its reliability, scoring an impressive 86 out of 100 from J.D. Power for its dependability and lasting appeal. The sedan is equipped with an advanced eight-inch infotainment system, complete with onboard Wi-Fi and audio options ranging from a standard eight-speaker setup to a premium 14-speaker Bose system. With a starting price of $34,595 and seating for five, the CT4 positions itself as one of the most financially accessible models in Cadillac’s luxury lineup, further supported by extensive warranty coverage that highlights its long-term value.

Jan 18

Hulk Hogan’s Epic Mopar Collection: A Rivalry with Goldberg’s Garage

Hulk Hogan’s Passion for Mopar Matches WWE Fame

Hulk Hogan, renowned for his WWE superstardom, matches his ring flair with an intense passion for Mopars, making his automotive tastes as legendary as his wrestling career. His collection, echoing the enthusiasm of fellow WWE star Bill Goldberg, spans from venerable Dodge Chargers to the ferocious modern Hellcats.

A HEMI Orange 1968 Dodge Charger hangs out at a Mopar car show.
An orange 1968 Dodge Charger R/T | Streager via iStock

Iconic Models in Hogan’s Mopar Collection

Hogan’s garage boasts a lineup that rivals the best classic car collections, prominently featuring Mopar classics that are a nod to both performance and nostalgia. Noteworthy in his collection is an orange 1968 Dodge Charger R/T known for its monstrous upgrade to a 528 cubic-inch V8 engine, delivering a staggering 900 horsepower. Alongside, he owns an enviable array of Plymouths including the 1969 Road Runner, 1971 Barracuda, and the standout Plum Crazy Purple 1971 Plymouth Hemi ‘Cuda.

Additional Insightful Information:

From Classic Muscle to Modern Power

While Hogan’s classics are a testament to his taste for vintage muscle, his affinity for speed and power extends to newer models as well. His 2021 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Redeye exemplifies modern muscle, combining high horsepower with the practicality needed for everyday use. Additionally, his 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon highlights his preference for extreme performance, boasting 840 horsepower and a record for the first production car wheelie.

Cultural Impact and Legacy of Hogan’s Collection

Hogan’s choice of vehicles reflects more than just a penchant for high-powered cars; it represents a blend of American automotive heritage and celebrity culture. His vehicles not only showcase technological advancements and design evolution but also embed the larger-than-life persona Hogan carried in the wrestling ring into each model, making his collection a crossroad of automotive excellence and entertainment legacy.

Jan 18

The Rise of Manual Transmissions: A Stick Shift Revival in Today’s Car Market

The resurgence of manual transmissions is more than just a trend—it’s a revival of driving passion. In 2023, manual transmissions made up 1.7% of all car sales, a significant jump from less than 1% in 2021. This 70% increase reflects a growing appreciation for the driving experience that only a stick shift can provide, despite its relatively small market share.

The six-speed stick shift lever in a manual 2007 BMW M6 V10.
2007 BMW M6 | Cars & Bids

The renewed interest in manuals is fueled by a combination of enthusiast demand and exciting new offerings from automakers. Notable models like the Toyota Supra and Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing have embraced manual gearboxes, rekindling excitement among driving purists. The Mazda Miata, a longstanding symbol of driving enjoyment, continues to be a top choice for manual enthusiasts, with 60% of buyers opting for the traditional gearshift, highlighting the car’s enduring appeal even as it approaches its 35th anniversary.

Jan 18

Toyota Camry Tops the Used Car Market, Leaving Honda Civic Behind

The Honda Civic has long been a favorite in the used sedan market, but in 2023, it falls short of the Toyota Camry’s dominance. While the Civic remains a popular choice, it is outpaced by the Camry, which claims the top position in used car sales for its segment. Despite the Civic’s enduring appeal, the latest statistics reveal the Camry’s stronger hold on the market.

A 2019 Honda Civic, a less-popular passenger car than the Toyota Camry, takes a corner.
2019 Honda Civic | Honda

In 2023, the Toyota Camry captured 6.1% of the used sedan market, surpassing the Civic’s 5.8%. This shift is a notable change from the previous year, where the Civic led with 5.6% compared to the Camry’s 5.5%. This year’s data underscores the Camry’s continued popularity and the Civic’s slip to second place among used sedans.

While passenger cars like the Civic and Camry hold significant positions, they are overshadowed by the demand for SUVs and pickup trucks. The Ford F-150 leads the used vehicle market, dominating sales across 34 states, while the Honda Civic finds its strongest presence in New Jersey alone. This reflects a broader trend towards larger vehicles in the U.S. market.