I am posting this because this is something I would do: re-branding an expensive car as an affordable car so that I don’t come across like such a Richie Rich douche bag.

Via Autoblog via Car News China:

Perhaps there was once a time when the Chinese citizenry couldn’t tell the difference between a Mercedes-Benz and a Honda. In today’s car-crazy China, however, this is clearly no longer the case. That didn’t stop police in Fangchenggang (part of Guangxi Province) from performing a low-tech badge swap on a Mercedes-Benz ML350 in a bid to make it look like a run-of-the-mill Honda, right down to CR-V emblem on the rear liftgate.

Car News China reports that the police did it to fool taxpayers into thinking that the department didn’t spend big bucks on a Benz. An ML350 reportedly costs around 900,000 yuan ($139,000 USD), which is a lot more than Honda CR-V, which runs around 200,000 yuan ($30,000 or so). As you may have guessed, the ridiculous (and failed) cover-up attempt by the cops angered residents whole lot more than if they’d simply rolled out, baller style, in the Mercedes from the beginning.

I love cars, exotic and exclusive cars doubly so, and I was not aware of the Bristol car company of the Great Britain, either as a classic auto or a current purveyor of handmade bespoke automobiles.

While Bristol Cars surely offers more exotic rocket-ship models that are well-flashy and rather vulgar, the Bristol Blenheim 3 is my cup of tea: nondescript, subtly sexy, rather boring, and so exclusive that even I would mistake the Bristol for something else entirely. No airbags, no ABS, nothing post-1980, actually, it seems.

How did I learn about it?  What I believe is a maroon Bristol 405 is a featured character in the British film, An Education. Check this out:

The Bristol Blenheim 3 is one of the world’s most remarkable cars. Bristol is the only remaining luxury car manufacturer under British control. It is also the last company that still creates its cars entirely by hand in the time-honoured manner benefiting from the exacting skill, precision and care of individual craftsmen. By deliberately restricting production to a handful of cars per week we ensure exclusivity and excellence of manufacture. The labour hours to build the Blenheim 3 are three to four times more than those of any other specialist luxury cars. This we happily accept as the cost of perfection.

Externally, a Bristol’s appearance is carefully tailored to achieve quiet understatement yet maintain an elegant, timeless line. The latest Blenheim 3 benefits from a sleeker, more rounded aluminium body whose softly sculptured nose conceals more efficient cooling ducts and a subtle ‘splitter’, which eliminates residual lift without any drag penalty. By blending modern elements with traditional Bristol proportions we have achieved an elegant Grand Tourer which looks distinguished in any surroundings.

Today’s traffic conditions require a vehicle with compact overall dimensions to provide enjoyable, stress-free motoring. The Blenheim’s major mechanical components are carefully laid out to avoid the usual massive centre console stealing interior room so that we may provide the interior width of a formal luxury car within the exterior width of a medium sized saloon. A rare feature these days is a generous area of glass (of exceptional optical quality) and slim pillars which give unrivalled outward vision. Combined with an unexpectedly tight turning circle the Blenheim allows brisk and enjoyable progress in traffic conditions and slips through gaps where traditional luxury saloons are often brought to a frustrating standstill.

Despite its compact exterior dimensions, Blenheim 3 draws on our logical Aviation heritage to maximise space within. The normally wasted area behind the front wheels is used for lockable compartments which house the spare wheel, battery and electrical components. The fuel tank is located above the rear axle line (the safest place imaginable) thus ensuring that the boot is deep and regularly spaced. Four six foot tall adults can settle comfortably into amply sized leather armchairs with generous leg, head and shoulder room. These high backed seats with integral headrests support you softly but fully while one of the strongest road car structures yet devised insulates you from unwanted harshness and vibration. The interior is trimmed by hand in a special flawless grade of hide created for Bristol, complemented by matched walnut veneer and Wilton carpet edge-bound in leather. Many hours are spent covering by hand the areas beneath with sound proofed multi-layered cushioned underlays to give that solid cosseted feel that is one of the great delights of a traditional coachbuilt body. In a Bristol, every journey becomes an occasion, a relaxing and satisfying place from which to observe the hectic world without.

It is not by chance that Bristol enjoys a reputation as a marque favoured by the most skilled and enthusiastic drivers. The Blenheim is unique among passenger cars in locating the entire engine and all major masses including spare wheel and battery within the wheelbase. This is essential, as it allows us to achieve not only the ideal front to rear weight balance but also the lowest possible centre of gravity and polar moment of inertia. The results may be felt every minute you drive – exceptional agility combined with imperturbable stability at speed and remarkable roadholding under all conditions. Bristol’s power steering system, unlike most others, has been developed to provide a true feel of the road, varying its feedback faithfully according to the amount of road grip that is available. Whether it is being used as a luxury Town Car or high speed Continental Express, Bristol’s painstaking engineering excellence puts the driver confidently in control and his passengers totally at ease.

Powering the Blenheim 3 is a large displacement naturally aspirated engine which has been optimised to perform economically and with exceptional responsiveness at low revs and light throttle openings. Indeed very few cars of any type offer more torque in relation to vehicle weight. You will notice this in the way that the car moves swiftly away from rest as if it weighs almost nothing. Every throttle movement will be answered with swift, obedient authority while a 70mph cruise requires an engine speed of barely 1,700 r.p.m. Should your mood or road conditions require it, the smooth yet responsive automatic transmission will immediately change down giving you access to a level of performance normally reserved for serious sporting machines.

By painstaking engineering and innovative design, Bristol have achieved what our owners most desire. A car sized to make the best use of today’s roads yet with the full accommodation of a formal saloon and the presence of a true gentleman’s Grand Touring coupé

Specifications

• ENGINE – Layout: 8 cylinders in Vee formation Cubic Capacity: 5,900 cc Bore: 101.6mm (4.00 in) Stroke: 90.93mm (3.58in) Compression Ratio: 9.25:1 Fuel System: Tuned runner aluminium plenum with multi port injection. Ignition System: Dual microprocessor sequential electronic ignition.
• DRIVETRAIN – Layout: Electronically controlled automatic with four forward speeds and reverse. Torque Converter: Stall ratio 2.19:1 with computer controlled lock-up clutch. Final Drive: 2.88:1 (3.06 optional) Overall Gearing: 40.72 mph/1,000 r.p.m. (38.52 optional).
• SUSPENSION – Front: Unequal length wishbones with coil springs, adjustable telescopic dampers, torsional anti-roll bar. Rear: Bristol 8-link axle with torsion springs, adjustable telescopic dampers. Limited slip differential.
• STEERING – Layout: Power assisted recirculating ball. Safety: Energy absorbing column with offset joints and twin progressive collapse sections. Steering wheel: 14″ diameter with hand stitched leather trim.
• BRAKES – Front: Self adjusting discs with four piston calipers. Rear: Self adjusting discs with two piston calipers. Handbrake: Mechanical linkage operating on rear discs.
• WHEELS – 7 x 15″ Alloy (7 x 16″ Alloy optional).
• TYRES – Front and Read: 215/70 x 15 (225/60 x 16 optional) Spare: Full sized located in front wing compartment.
• FUEL SYSTEM – Pump: Electric high pressure with external filter and regulator. Tank: 82 litres (18 lmp. gallons) – 109 litres (24 lmp. gallons optional) Filler: Concealed with remote electric release.

• DIMENSIONS – Length: 4.87m (15′ 10″). Width: 1.765m (5′ 9″). Height: 1.441m (4’8″). Wheelbase: 2.89m (9’6″). Track Front: 1.416m (4’7″). Track Rear: 1.435m (4’8″). Turning Circle: 11.912m (39′). Kerb weight: 1,728kg (3,870lb).
• PERFORMANCE – Acceleration: 0 – 60 mph in 6.3 secs.
• BASE PRICE £141,995.00
  VAT @ 15% £21,299.25
  Total UK Price £163,294.25

Further enquiries may be directed to the head office and showrooms:
Bristol Cars Ltd. the manufacturers
Unit 19, Shield Drive, Westcross Centre, Great West Road, Brentford, TW8 9EX
Tel: 020 7603 5555

Warren Brown wrote an article about the 2009 Chevy Cobalt SS this morning for the Post. His review of the Cobalt tangented into some of the most important lessons that Detroit’s big three need to learn, Zippy Affordability Blazes Better Trail for GM.

General Motors should stop trying to please everybody. It’s a strategy that embraces the lowest common denominator. It’s hard to make a favorable impression when your primary objective is to avoid offending as many people as possible. You wind up pleasing no one, or next to no one, or so it seems. You are relegated to second-class status. Or worse, you are forgotten.

[...]

That told me that the Cobalt SS was the car that Chevrolet regarded as the real Cobalt, the one the company regarded as the most representative of that compact economy car line. That being the case, I wondered why the company wasted so much time, money and marketing muscle pushing lesser Cobalts — disparagingly regarded as “rental cars” by the automotive media.

[...]

No one regards the comparable Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra, or Toyota Corolla as a “rental car,” although all of those models can be found on somebody’s rental car lot. A Civic is a Civic. An Elantra is an Elantra. A Corolla is a Corolla. All are compact economy cars with good road manners and excellent quality. Their reputations are so strong, their names speak for themselves.

[...]

I suspect it’s because of GM’s dedication to the lowest common denominator — the company’s tendency to take a good idea, such as the Cobalt, and dilute it as much as possible in pursuit of maximum affordability.

The end result is a line of cheap, forgettable cars. That’s too bad because as demonstrated by the tested SS, the Cobalt is so much better than that.

And I can’t help but think that the Cobalt would be even better had GM not squandered money and reputation spreading the car’s value over a broad field of less-than-impressive materials and mediocre performance in pursuit of more sales.

GM needs to abandon that practice, even if it means losing aggregate sales. It should consider trading volume for memorability, which could lead to an increase in higher quality sales — cars and trucks sought by consumers more for likeability than price.

[...]

But they all said they would strongly consider buying the Cobalt SS, although it comes with two fewer doors and a substantially higher price than the workaday Cobalt sedans flooding the rental fleets.

“I don’t get it,” said a Virginia friend after taking a spin in the Cobalt SS. His first experience with the Cobalt was via a car rental agency in South Carolina.

That rented Cobalt was so ordinary, “it was depressing,” he said. But the Cobalt SS was “a boss little car, something I could see myself owning,” he said.

“I don’t get it,” my friend said. “Why doesn’t GM put this one [the Cobalt SS] in the rental fleets. It’s like GM wants us to have a bad impression of its products. That doesn’t make sense.”

Enough said.

It all comes down to producing cars that work too hard to appeal to everyone that they appeal to noone. In my opinion, American car models are too broad and there is too much desire to water brands down to a lowest-common-denominator.

In Germany, Mercedes-Benz is more of a “tool-car” that offers cars at most levels of affordability while still not offering garbage “rental cars.” There is a difference between offering fleet-level vehicles and what people perceive as “rental car quality.” Fleet-worthy vehicles are considered durable. Most European taxis are diesel Mercedes sedans. While not the luxury S-class sedan, the reputation Mercedes-Benz has in Europe comes from the ubiquity of these MB workhorses.

When people think of rental cars, they think of plasticky sub-compact tin boxes, not durable everruns. Do you see what I mean?  American cars (not trucks — American trucks are built, and priced, to be workhorses)  have become associated with being the vehicle you buy until you can afford a Toyota or a Mercedes.  Even Saturn is being shuttered — and rightfully so, since it has long ago lost its novelty and associted nationwide appeal.

And, while this article is about General Motors, the same can be said about Ford and Chrysler, too.  Yes, you will tell me about the Corvette and the Ford GT and the Jeep and even the Hummer and all of these little eddy brands.  Well, when we take the trucks and the sports cars away and you’re left with 2-door coupes, 4-door sedans, 5-door hatchback, and wagons, what’re you left with? Especially when it comes to “tool-cars” and quality sub-compact and SMART-like high efficiency vehicles?  How about resale and reliability statistics?

Around here in Arlington, cabbies are replacing the unquitous Crown Vic with Toyota Priuses and Camry hybrids.  On that note, the Crown Victoria was the last real success story when it came to fleet vehicles: cop cars, cruisers, taxis. Too bad the Impala — an amazing car when it was the real Chevy Impala SS — doesn’t seem to get the pick up the Vic did.

Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Bosom, originally uploaded by Chris Abraham.

This sleek and slippery Bugatti Veyron 16.4 sports car can top 250 mpg and 0-60 in 2.5 seconds. The car produces 1,001 horsepower from a 8.0 L quad-turbocharged W16 engine. The base price is €1,127,210 (GB£757,359/US$1,440,800). Worth every penny.

The Waiting Room of Merchant’s Tire, originally uploaded by Chris Abraham.

I sat in this charming waiting room today for three hours at Merchant Tires in Arlington waiting for my Euro Sedan to get three new shoes: Continental Touring tires. One of the tires was brand new from a flat but the other three were pretty much bald. Nice rubber for a nice ride. They did a good job and I got to catch up on all of my 4×4 and sports car mags. My mom rolls in my BMW when I am in Berlin and mom deserves brand new rubber for safety’s sake!

Audi’s also done a very good job below the hood. It’s a V8 FSI engine sporting 354 horses with a not so impressive 325lbs of torque. Another eyebrow raising feature is the very very impressive audio system – It’s got the Bang & Olufsen system with 12 speakers and 2 sub’s which put-out a deafening 500 watts music – sheer pleasure!. I always believed that music should not just hit you, it has to go through you! All in all, Very impressive! I can’t wait to get behind the wheel…and see what the 0-60 looks like! lol! I am joking, I am good law abiding citizen. And, the best part, you don’t have to barter an arm & a leg, the MSRP is about $50,900 pre-options. Pretty sweet price compared to the stuff you are getting.

I love my big car but I also love American independence more and think that we rely way too much foreign oil and don’t spend nearly enough on energy innovation. Since coal and oil is still plentiful and cheap enough, there isn’t any reason, really, to dump R&D funds into alternative and renewable fuels, energy, and electricity. We need to in-source and work on ways to stop depending so heavily on foreign oil and the whims of kings and their kingdoms.

Congress is working on passing an energy bill that contains two major provisions, one that would up a fuel economy standard to 35 mpg — Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) Standards — and another that would evolve our energy dependence more heavily on renewable electricity to 15% — Renewable Electricity Standards (RES). Together, these would end our Nation’s security-threatening dependence on Middle East oil, stop our money from flowing to terrorists, and keep our dollars at home growing the American economy.

Unfortunately, lobbyists and PACs are working hard to tear the bill apart, rendering it impotent and incremental instead of powerful and transformative.

I am working with a coalition to make sure the energy bill doesn’t get derailed. I need your help in making sure that the final bill makes it through before we get ourselves into even more of a mess. Check out Energy Bill 2007 and sign their petition.

Congress is working on passing an energy bill that contains two major provisions, one that would up a fuel economy standard to 35 mpg and another that would evolve our energy dependence more heavily on renewable electricity to 15%. Together, these would end our Nation’s security-threatening dependence on Middle East oil, stop our money from flowing to terrorists, and keep our dollars at home growing the American economy.

Unfortunately, lobbyists and PACs are working hard to tear the bill apart, rendering it impotent and incremental instead of powerful and transformative.

There’s an interesting article in this morning Financial Times, US green groups urge Toyota U-turn, “Toyota is scrambling to protect its green reputation in the US, its largest market, where environmental groups are urging it to drop its opposition to a draft fuel economy bill.”

According to the Truth About Toyota, “Toyota has used its Prius to create a corporate image based on innovation and environmental consciousness. But as National Highway Traffic Administration (NHTSA) data shows, Toyota’s current fleet-wide fuel economy is lower today than it was 20 years ago around the time CAFE standards were last increased.” Interesting.

An excerpt from US green groups urge Toyota U-turn

“The controversy has landed the maker of the world’s top-selling hybrid vehicle, the Prius, at the centre of a high-stakes legislative debate, and has even elicited a defence on its behalf from General Motors, its rival for the position of the world’s top carmaker.

Nine groups, including the Union of Concerned Scientists, the National Environmental Trust and Friends of the Earth, last week asked Americans to sign a letter urging Toyota to drop its opposition to a draft bill on fuel economy standards passed by the US Senate.

The letter, addressed to Shigeru Hayakawa, president of Toyota USA, claims Toyota is joining its Detroit rivals to deny Americans the strict fuel economy standards it complies with in Japan.

“When I decide what type of vehicle I want to drive, I take a company’s overall reputation into consideration,” it reads.

“Toyota’s credibility is on the line.”

Toyota has joined GM, Ford Motor and Chrysler in opposing the fuel economy bill in the Senate.

The draft requires manufacturers to reach a fleet average of 35 mpg by 2020 – 10 mpg higher than today. But the carmakers say the target is unrealistic and would in effect limit production of pick-up trucks and other large vehicles.”

I dropped my car off at Capitol Hill Auto Service to have my routine service because I have heard such great things about them in the Hill.

They do great work, I am told, and we shall see. I have heard nothing but amazing things, anyway, and they’re less expensive than the dealer.

So, if you have a BMW, an import, or even a domestic car or truck, and you live on or near Capitol Hill, you should call Phillip W Fox, General Manager, 202-543-5155.

Capitol Hill Auto Service is located at 615 Independence Ave, SE, Washington, DC 20003, and they’re taking care of my car, Günther, a 2001 530i, as we speak.

“AMG has built a genuine Mercedes-Benz track car, the kind of street-legal racer we’ve seen in the parking lot of the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife, where a $10.75 ticket entitles you to test your car against the classic racing circuit.

In fact, the 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK63 AMG Black Series is the most serious car you can buy from Mercedes-Benz, a single-minded expression of performance that’s built just like the pace car you see at Formula 1 races,” via Edmunds

Fortunately the seven-speed automatic softens the jump from the engine, even when you use the quick-shifting manual mode that holds each gear to the engine’s redline. The aluminum shift paddles are sizable and solid, and they’re properly attached to the steering wheel and not the steering column. The stubby central shift lever really isn’t meant to be used.

Unlike other automotive exercises in 500 hp, the Black Series gives you the tools to make good use of so much power. When you begin your move into a corner, the steering action is quick and wonderfully accurate, a perfect match with the chassis. There’s a fine sense of overall command through the steering that Mercedes-Benz doesn’t usually deliver.

The cockpit is a great place to work. The panoramic windshield and a good seating position give you a great view of the road, even when you have to peer up through an upper corner of the glass to see a hairpin climbing out of sight up the mountain.

Of course, it helps if you can fit into the AMG sport seat. You can get along with the manual adjustment for fore-and-aft travel, and the three electronically controlled bolsters make the seat comfortable enough, but you might have to drop a dress size to get into it in the first place. Don’t worry about the rear seat, because AMG leaves it out to save weight,” via Edmunds

The power comes in with a predictable, authoritative rush; and if you drift out of the stability control system’s envelope of acceptability, it doesn’t yank you back as if the hand of Gottlieb Daimler himself were shaking you. Just as important, the brakes are always there when you need them. The pads don’t have a lot of initial bite, yet the actual braking power is stupendous and fade-free besides. Our 3,918-pound test car came to a halt in just 108 feet, a combination of great brakes and great tires.

And in the AMG way, both the Black Series and its driver can put in a full day of this back and forth without breaking a sweat. Composed, responsive car dynamics help make speed seem effortless. Only the transmission’s inability to match engine revs during downshifts (AMG tried to program it into the software and got only 50-rpm blips for its trouble) compromises your efforts.

Meanwhile, the car itself is engineered for track-ready toughness. There’s a larger radiator, plus an engine oil cooler in the front wheel arch, while the power steering, transmission and rear differential all have dedicated fluid coolers as well,” via Edmunds

I love to visit digg. I was checking digg this morning and bumbled into uncrate, where I discovered the coolest ute I have ever seen, the TLC Icon. Amazingly, it makes the Land Rover Defender 90 look nancy-assed. The Icon is a $100,000 bespoke exercise in engineering and design shoe-horned into a classic, original-looking, hand-made FJ40 Toyota Land Cruiser replica chassis.

Yes, that’s right. I said $100,000 United Stated dollars. According to the web site, "pricing starts at $96,050." To be honest, I would buy one. How would I set it up? Well, I would want my ute to look just like this one, but I think I would prefer to have it powder-coated in either cream or white. I really don’t want a military-looking vehicle. I do admit that power coated black or green, like this one, is pretty compelling. Very grunty.

Here’s how I would like my Icon to be built-up:

- Optional 2.8L International Harvester Turbo Bio-Diesel, 150 HP / 260 TRQ
(I am really attracted to vegetable oil diesels and want to be able to run a truck using alternative fuels, such as diesel, biodiesel, and vegetable oil diesel. This is important to be and although choosing the Chevy Racing 383 Ramjet gasoline engine is tempting, I don’t think a vehicle like this needs to go fast, it just needs to go, and diesel is an amazingly flexible solution and an awesome option.)

- Optional ARB air compressor, locking differentials
– Optional heated seats
– Optional Alpine CD with MB Quart speaker; XM, Ipod interface; amp & base package.
– Optional Garmin ZUMO 550 GPS with quick mount.
– Optional damasked dash panel set.
– Optional soft top, 3 ply Mercedes canvas; canvas half doors.
– Optional vintage hard top and doors.
– Optional Powertank system providing compressed air for tools, tire inflation.
– Optional Warn 8274 winch with recovery gear.

I love that the ICON utility vehicle comes with everything you need to take to the hills, including a lock box, a spare wheel with an offroad changing it, a built-in gas can, a rollover cage, and all the rest.

This vehicle is bespoke all the way down to the drivetrain. Every centimeter is polished, powercoated, and treated. If you’ll see below, every inch of the vehicle is modernized and updated by the gang over at TLC in Van Nuys, California, using an original 1960-1984-era replica FJ40 Toyota Land Cruiser shell.

"An all-new steel and 5052 H32 aluminum body designed by TLC captures the original Land Cruiser character but with even greater longevity and resistance to the elements. The finished is extremely durable, providing aircraft-quality protection that is easy to maintain with a brush and hose. It is mildly textured in a range of earth tones."

CHASSIS
"The Icon’s frame is based on the original, solid Land Cruiser double Cchannel boxed frame construction, reinforced, modified and powder-coated by TLC to enhance rigidity, ride quality, and durability. Axles and differentials: Custom built 3/4 ton-1 ton Dynatrac Dana 60/44 based assemblies. 4.09:1 ratio, limited slip standard. ARB front/rear lockers optional. Reverse U-bolt fittings to improve ground clearance. Suspension: Special-engineered ARB Dakar / EMU components. Enhanced wheelbase with extended rear springs, poly urethane bushings with greasable pins and anti-inversion shackles, Old Man Emu gas shocks, custom reversed U-bolt axle hangars for high clearance. Brakes: Common US parts based power assisted four-wheel, slotted and vented, power assisted disc brakes. Dual diaphragm booster with GM style master cylinder. Stainless steel flex lines."

Okay, I have to admit that my desire for this hundred-thousand-dollar Tonka truck is purely visceral. Right from the guts, right from the loins. I have always been amazed by the Land Rover

STEERING
"PSC stage Four (4 rotations left to right) steering box, aircraft Aero-quip hoses. Industrial 17” black powder coat three spoke steering wheel. Ididit designed custom tilt collapsible steering column. Single turn steering shaft with Borgenson joint. One ton GM steering arms and ends. Designed for mild power effect, and maximum control in all environments. All systems utilize off-the-shelf components from top US suppliers to ensure ease of maintenance."

BIO-DIESEL ENGINE
"The Icon’s all-new International 4 cylinder is designed to run on bio-diesel or low sulfer diesel. With enhanced combustion technology, a new combustion bowl design, high pressure rotary injection pump, VCO hyrdo-grinding and two stage injectors, the 2.8 ICON engine is robust as it is simple. Fuel economy is 25-30 MPG, while providing respectable performance and stellar reliability. The new 2.8 4 cylinder is a high pressure rotary injected intercooled turbo unit with Bosch electronics and a Garrett variable vane turbo. This engine has been used in many high volume truck applications in some of the harshest environments worldwide by GM, Ford, Land Rover and others."

TRANSMISSION
"Full syncro 1-ton NV4500 five-speed transmission is at home on the trail or highway. New process new Venture 4500 Heavy Duty Five Speed."

EXTERIOR
"Finish: Innovative textured epoxy, polymer-based, marine powder-coat finish offers aircraft-quality surface protection and easy maintenance. Available in five standard colors. Custom powder coat colors and traditional automotive paint finishes available. Coating: Line-X heat-cured, polyurethane coating provides further corrosion protection for underside of body and floor surfaces. Soft-Top: Versatile, soft-top tailored in high-quality, black, three-ply German canvas over steel, custom-built, powder-coated frame structure. Removable window panels. Rolls Royce attaching hardware, YKK zippers. Wheels: Choose Teflon coated 17" American Racing alloy wheels (New School) or vintage Cruiser 15" steel wheels (Old School) with hub caps on BF Goodrich A/T or M/T tires. Headlights: Traditional light housings hide modern halogen headlights with integral LED driving and turn signal indicators. Rear Bumper: Kaymar rear bumper (New School) isolates spare tire carrier from the body and provides a class-two tow-receiver rated up to 3,500 lbs. Front Bumper: ARB steel front bumper (New School) provide protection and presence, with room for optional winch."

INTERIOR
"The interior of the Icon is as comfortable as it is functional. And that’s saying a lot. Steering column and wheel: Collapsible tilt steering column by Ididit for improved ergonomics and safety mated to a no nonsense 17" industrial waterproof steering wheel. Seats: Optional front seat heat. three point seatbelts for all. Front seats hinge forward for eased rear access. Optional tuck and tumble or remove rear seat with ease. Gauges: Custom Autometer gauges. LED illumination and indicators. Heat & A/C image: Modern Hurricane R-134A heat defrost and A/C system. Anodized aluminum aircraft swivel vents (4), plus floor vent and defrost. Center Console: Large locking steel center console with hidden stereo compartment. Fit and Finish: Custom-knurled, stainless-steel dash knobs. Exposed stainless-steel body hardware. Cabin floor and underside coated in tough Line-X polyurethane. Optional machine-turned, damasked dash panel set. Special Features: 12V rear power port in dash and cargo area. Large locking steel Tuffy security console. Additional storage compartment hidden in tailgate. Seating: Reconfigured seating positions for four with three-point seat belts for all offer improved ergonomics and safety. Steering column and wheel: Collapsible tilt steering column design by Ididit provides improved protection.

“The contemporary 4X4 with the old school resume"

"The original FJ40 Toyota Land Cruiser had character, simplicity and genuine utility. Since then there has been a proliferation of SUV brands from a wide variety of manufacturers, but none matched the ethic of the original FJ40. For many purists, Sports Utility Vehicles have all but lost their utility. That’s why we created the Icon. A perfect balance of classic design and modern performance, the Icon is a return to the character and purity of purpose of the original Toyota Land Cruiser. Its timeless styling and cutting edge engineering have taken it to a new level of utility. Hand crafted and custom designed to the highest standards of operation and durability; it is a vehicle without peer for a journey without boundaries."

Standard and Optional Equipment

- Chevy Racing Ramjet fuel injected, 350 HP / 400 TRQ.
– Optional Chevy Racing 383 Ramjet fuel injected, 430 HP / 461 TRQ.
– Optional 2.8L International Harvester Turbo Bio-Diesel, 150 HP / 260 TRQ.
– Full syncro 1-ton NV4500, five speed transmission.
– Original Land Cruiser double c-channel frame, reinforced, modified and powder coated.
– Custom built ¾ ton – 1 ton Dynatrac Dana 60/44 based assemblies.
– Special Engineered ARB/ Drakar / EMU suspension components.
– Enhanced wheelbase with extended rear springs.
– Old Man EMU gas shocks.
– Custom reversed U-bolt axle hangars for high clearance.
– 4-wheel slotted and cross-drilled, power assist brakes.
– Custom fuel system with powder coated, steel 18 gallon fuel tank in rear with skid plate.
– AGR stage 4 (4 rotations left to right) steering box with Nascar style alloy GM type II pump.
– All new steel and 5052 H32 aluminum body designed by TLC.
– Marine grade epoxy polymer, powder coat finish. (Traditional auto finishes also available)
– Line-X polyurethane coating for underside of body and cabin floor surfaces.
– Teflon coated 17” American racing wheels of Vintage Cruiser 15” steel wheels with hub caps.
– ARB front and Kaymar rear bumpers (original FJ40 bumpers also available).
Marine grade textile seating (optional Chilewich fabric).
– Custom – knurled, stainless steel knobs. Exposed stain-less body hardware.
– Optional ARB air compressor, locking differentials.
– Optional heated seats.
– Optional Alpine CD with MB Quart speaker; XM, Ipod interface; amp & base package.
– Optional Garmin ZUMO 550 GPS with quick mount.
– Optional damasked dash panel set.
– Optional soft top, 3 ply Mercedes canvas; canvas half doors.
– Optional vintage hard top and doors.
– Optional Powertank system providing compressed air for tools, tire inflation.
– Optional Warn 8274 winch with recovery gear.

* options are added and updated periodically so please call for updated information. We will also try to accommodate special requests. Please click here for a detailed description and technical information)

DIMENSIONS

LENGTH: 13’2” (158”)
HEIGHT: 6’6” (78”)
WIDTH: 5’5” (65”)
WHEELBASE: 7’6” (92”)
TRACK WIDTH: 4’8.25” (56.25”)
CURB WEIGHT(BASE): 3750 lbs.

THE ENVIRONMENT

"We built the Icon with the premise that the people who spend the most time in wild places have the greatest interest in preserving them. So the Icon is built with a sense of the environment and recycling responsibly. The Icon emits less harmful emissions in a day full of stop and go driving than the original Land Cruiser did idling in a parking lot. Its modern drive train design provides more than triple the horsepower and double the torque of the original Cruiser while reducing emissions and increasing efficiency thanks to its intelligent gearing, modern fuel injection system, oxygen sensor circuit and sealed fuel system.

We further reduce environmental impact by recycling an older vehicle instead of producing a new one. No CFCs or VOCs are emitted in the production of the Icon. TLC remains committed to the development of diesel, bio-diesel and electric drivetrain designs. We are actively engaging partners in those industries and intend to expand our offerings in the near future.

For additional information or in inquire about ordering your ICON, please call Charley Lewis at (252) 617-5977 or email Charley at clewis@trent.com today!"

More information as taken from the specification PDF about the diesel TLC Icon

The Icon is a contemporary 4×4 with an old school resume.

The original FJ40 Toyota Land Cruiser had character, simplicity and genuine utility. Since then there has been a proliferation of SUV brands from a wide variety of manufacturers, but none matched the ethic of the original FJ40. For many purists, Sports Utility Vehicles have all but lost their utility. That’s why we created the Icon. A perfect balance of classic design and modern performance, the Icon is a return to the character and purity of purpose of the original Toyota Land Cruiser. Its timeless styling and cutting edge engineering have taken it to a new level of utility. Hand crafted and custom designed to the highest standards of operation and durability; it is a vehicle without peer for a journey without boundaries.

We had to look a couple of steps backward in order to make a big leap forward. Confucius said, “Study the past if you would define the future.” We did. For us, Toyota’s legendary Land Cruiser set the standard of innovative design and unparalleled performance. Since its introduction in 1958 it has been respected worldwide as the vehicle of choice for the harshest environments. The classic FJ40 Land Cruiser (1958-1983) has become a legend, providing owners with continued utility and collectors with a timeless trophy. No other brand has come close to matching its versatility.

Before you can push the limit you have to find it.

Ownership of any classic vehicle involves some concessions in performance as well as a commitment to continued maintenance. For over a decade, we have given the Cruiser community our support by being the leading specialists in the care and preservation of their vehicles. Outside of its original engineers, no one knows the Land Cruiser the way we do. But now, inspired by the design of the original FJ40, we’re proud to say, we can offer even more. By creating the Icon, we have preserved the best aspects of the greatest SUV in history and re-engineered them to meet the demands of the most discriminating contemporary driver.

Go nowhere fast.

The simple yet sophisticated design of the Icon sets a high standard for performance and ease of ownership. Its International Diesel power plant, supported worldwide and well adapted to virtually any environment. Its heavy-duty, New Process, One Ton five-speed transmission and purpose-built Atlas dual-stick transfer case apply power with precision on the highway and the . Its Dana based Dynatrac based custom-built axle assemblies offer easy maintenance and proven durability. Its four-wheel power disc brakes give you the stopping power to handle nature’s random surprises. And all systems are easily serviced with common parts that are readily available almost anywhere. Even if you’re in the middle of nowhere.

ENGINE
The Icon’s all-new International 4 cylinder is designed to run on bio-diesel or low sulfer diesel. With enhanced combustion technology, a new combustion bowl design, high pressure rotary injection pump, VCO hyrdo-grinding and two stage injectors, the 2.8 ICON engine is robust as it is simple. Fuel economy is 25-30 MPG, while providing respectable performance and stellar reliability. The new 2.8 4 cylinder is a high pressure rotary injected intercooled turbo unit with Bosch electronics and a Garrett variable vane turbo. This engine has been used in many high volume truck applications in some of the harshest environments worldwide by GM, Ford, Land Rover and others.

International HS 2.8L VNT
Configuration in-line 4 cylinder
Displacement: 2.8 liters
Bore: 93mm
Stroke: 102.5mm
Combustion System: Direct injection
Cycle: 4 times per rotation
Injection System: Rotary Injection
Aspiration/Turbo: Variable Nozzle Garrett Turbo
Air Cooling: Custom alloy intercooler
Power Output: 135HP @ 3800RPM
Peak Torque: 276 pounds @ 1400RPM
Dimensions: 700x762x826mm
Dry Weight: 458.57lbs. (208Kg)
Motor Mounts:
Fluid filled to isolate vibration.

Cooling system:
Purpose-built alloy cross-flow radiator with fan clutch and hand-crafted steel shroud.

Exhaust system:
Single exit system with OE manifold, stainless steel flex junction at header. Optional Mine-X particulate trap filter..

TRANSMISSION
Full syncro 1-ton NV4500 five-speed transmission is at home on the trail or highway. New process new Venture 4500 Heavy Duty Five Speed
Synchronization: All Gears
Main Case: Cast iron
Shift Cover: Aluminum alloy
Gear Bearing: Caged roller
Main Shaft Pilot: Straight roller
Lubrication: Syntorq LT Synthetic 75w85
Support Bearing: Timken tapered roller
Input Thrust: Flat thrust bearing assembly
Dry Weight: 195 pounds
Torque Rating: HD: 460 lb.-ft.
Oil Capacity Transmission Only: 4.5 quarts
PTO: Standard 6 bolt on each side
HD Input Shaft: 1 1/4" 10 spline with .750" pilot tip diameter
4×4 Output Shaft: HD: 29 spline

Gear ratios:
1st: 5.61:1
2nd: 3.04:1
3rd: 1.67:1
4th: 1.00:1
5th: 75:1
Reverse: 5.04:1

Clutch system:
Hydraulic system. Mcleod precision 12” clutch. CNC Nascar specification alloy clutch master. Mcleod slave cylinder. Stainless steel flex hose.

TRANSFER CASE
Purpose-built Atlas II transfer case is competition proven and freeway friendly, too. The Advance Adapter’s Atlas II 3.8:1 low range (5.0:1 option available) and 1: 1 high range transfer case is CAD-CAM designed and CNC machined for off-road performance, without sacrificing on road performance. The one-piece case with structural access cover is manufactured of heattreated aluminum alloy. The gears are precision machined and are supported by needle roller bearings that are matched to finely finished shafts. The shafts, including the bulletproof 1-3/8" diameter, 32 spline rear output shaft, are fully supported on tapered roller bearings. The Atlas transfer case also features the convenience of synchronized shift on the fly capability. While Twin stick controls allow individual front and rear axle control.

Case:
Material: Heat-Treated Aluminum Alloy
Overall length: 13.8
Weight: 110 lbs. (dry)
Internal Components:
Gears: Helical Cut
Bearings: Needle & Taper Rollers
Synchronizers: Borg-Warner T98
Input Shaft Splines: 10, 21, 23, 27, 28, 29, 31, 32
Tail Shaft: 1.375" Dia., 32 Spline, with C.V. Joint Capability

Ratios:
Low Range: 3.8:1 or 5.0:1 (Optional)
High Range: 1:1
Lubrication:
Oil Type: Synthetic Gear Oil – MT90 Red Line SAE 75w90 (3.5 Quarts).

CHASSIS
Frame: The Icon’s frame is based on the original, solid Land Cruiser double Cchannel boxed frame construction, reinforced, modified and powder-coated by TLC to enhance rigidity, ride quality, and durability.

Axles and differentials: Custom built 3/4 ton-1 ton Dynatrac Dana 60/44 based assemblies. 4.09:1 ratio, limited slip standard. ARB front/rear lockers optional. Reverse U-bolt fittings to improve ground clearance.

Suspension: Special-engineered ARB Dakar / EMU components. Enhanced wheelbase with extended rear springs, poly urethane bushings with greasable pins and anti-inversion shackles, Old Man Emu gas shocks, custom reversed U-bolt axle hangars for high clearance.

Brakes: Common US parts based power assisted four-wheel, slotted and vented, power assisted disc brakes. Dual diaphragm booster with GM style master cylinder. Stainless steel flex lines.

Parking brake: Isolated to rear brakes by shrouded stainless cable. Floor actuated with dash warning light.

Fuel system: Custom fuel system with powder-coated, steel, 19.6-gallon fuel tank in the rear, boxed by the frame. Steel fuel tank skid plate.

Drive Train Mounts: Fluid filled engine mounts to reduce driveline vibrations.

Drive shafts: Designed and built by JE Reel. 1310 U joints New high strength steel shaft bodies. Rear CV joint.

Steering: PSC stage Four (4 rotations left to right) steering box, aircraft Aero-quip hoses. Industrial 17” black powder coat three spoke steering wheel. Ididit designed custom tilt collapsible steering column. Single turn steering shaft with Borgenson joint. One ton GM steering arms and ends. Designed for mild power effect, and maximum control in all environments. All systems utilize off-the-shelf components from top US suppliers to ensure ease of maintenance.

ELECTRICAL
We use the latest, most reliable components to make sure the Icon’s electrical systems are tough enough to stand up to the harshest environments including custom Painless Performance wiring harness, ignition and dash controls and waterproof triple seal connectors, cross-link wire, and sealed contemporary micro blade fuse panel.

Headlights: Submersible high beam floor switch. Halogen H-4 85/120W headlights with integrated LED turn and running lights.

Dash: Domed head knurled edge stainless steel dash control knobs with engraved and hand painted vintage font for function identification.

Gauges: Custom Autometer gauges in black wrinkle powder coated or optional hand finished machine turned aluminum panel. Matched glove box face with lock.

Battery: Optima battery.

EXTERIOR
An all-new steel and 5052 H32 aluminum body designed by TLC captures the original Land Cruiser character but with even greater longevity and resistance to the elements. The finished is extremely durable, providing aircraft-quality protection that is easy to maintain with a brush and hose. It is mildly textured in a range of earth tones.

Finish: Innovative textured epoxy, polymer-based, marine powder-coat finish offers aircraft-quality surface protection and easy maintenance. Available in five standard colors. Custom powder coat colors and traditional automotive paint finishes available.

Coating: Line-X heat-cured, polyurethane coating provides further corrosion protection for underside of body and floor surfaces.

Soft-Top: Versatile, soft-top tailored in high-quality, black, three-ply German canvas over steel, custom-built, powder-coated frame structure. Removable window panels. Rolls Royce attaching hardware, YKK zippers.

Wheels: Choose Teflon coated 17" American Racing alloy wheels (New School) or vintage Cruiser 15" steel wheels (Old School) with hub caps on BF Goodrich A/T or M/T tires.

Headlights: Traditional light housings hide modern halogen headlights with integral LED driving and turn signal indicators.

Rear Bumper: Kaymar rear bumper (New School) isolates spare tire carrier from the body and provides a class-two tow-receiver rated up to 3,500 lbs.

Front Bumper: ARB steel front bumper (New School) provide protection and presence, with room for optional winch.

INTERIOR
The interior of the Icon is as comfortable as it is functional. And that’s saying a lot.

Steering column and wheel: Collapsible tilt steering column by Ididit for improved ergonomics and safety mated to a no nonsense 17" industrial waterproof steering wheel

Seats: Optional front seat heat. three point seatbelts for all. Front seats hinge forward for eased rear access. Optional tuck and tumble or remove rear seat with ease.

Gauges: Custom Autometer gauges. LED illumination and indicators.

Heat & A/C image: Modern Hurricane R-134A heat defrost and A/C system. Anodized aluminum aircraft swivel vents (4), plus floor vent and defrost.

Center Console: Large locking steel center console with hidden stereo compartment.

Fit and Finish: Custom-knurled, stainless-steel dash knobs. Exposed stainless-steel body hardware. Cabin floor and underside coated in tough Line-X polyurethane. Optional machine-turned, damasked dash panel set.

Special Features: 12V rear power port in dash and cargo area. Large locking steel Tuffy security console. Additional storage compartment hidden in tailgate.

SAFETY We’ve strived to make the Icon as safe as possible even in the most inhospitable environments.

Seating: Reconfigured seating positions for four with three-point seat belts for all offer improved ergonomics and safety.

Steering column and wheel: Collapsible tilt steering column design by Ididit provides improved protection.

Bumpers: Vintage FJ40 steel bumpers (Old School) or ARB front Bull bar (winch compatible) and Kaymar rear dual pivot class two tow bumper (New School).

Brakes: US parts based, power-assisted, four-wheel, slotted and vented disc brakes exceed Government rating. Dual diaphragm booster with GM style master cylinder. Stainless steel flex lines.

Parking brake: Isolated to rear brakes by shrouded stainless cable. Stainless steel floor actuator with dash warning light.

Frame: Original high strength double C-channel frame is enhanced with further structural improvements to gain in safety and performance, then powder coated for a durable finish.

Fuel system: Steel fuel tank is isolated from the interior and moved to the rear of the vehicle, boxed by the frame and a steel skid plate.

DIMENSIONS
LENGTH 13” 2” (158”)
HEIGHT 6” 6” (78”)
WIDTH 5” 5” (65”)
WHEELBASE 7” 6” (92”)
TRACK WIDTH 4” 8.25” (56.2”)
CURB WEIGHT (BASE) 3880 lbs.

THE ENVIRONMENT
We built the icon with the premise that the people who spend the most time in wild places have the greatest interest in preserving them. So the Icon is built with a sense of the environment and recycling responsibly. The Diesel Icon emits less harmful emissions in a day full of stop and go driving than the original gas or diesel Land Cruiser did idling in a parking lot. Its modern drive train design provides more than double the Torque of the original B series Toyota diesels while reducing emissions and increasing efficiency thanks to its intelligent gearing, modern fuel injection system, and sealed fuel system. This engine is designed to be run with up to 100% biodiesel, or conventional EC and US diesel at an efficiency of about 30 MPG. We further reduce environmental impact by recycling an older vehicle instead of producing of a new one. No CFCs or VOCs are emitted in the production of the Icon. TLC remains committed to the development of diesel-electric and electric drivetrain designs. We are proud to offer a diesel variant, and are actively engaging partners in emerging industries and intend to expand our line in the near future.

PRIMARY DESIGN PACKAGES
Because the ICON is built by hand, we can assure you that no two will be exactly the same. The ICON is available in your choice of two primary design packages, The New School and The Old School.

The New School Package:
Designed and finished like the industrial tool that it is.
• ARB front bumper.
• Kaymar dual pivot rear bumper (class II tow rated).
• 17” American Racing ATX Teflon coated wheels with your choice of
BF Goodrich 285/70/R17 All Terrain or Mud Terrain tires.
The Old School package :
Designed to have more of a retro style and character, paying homage to the
long legacy of the FJ40 Land Cruiser.
• New vintage FJ40 Toyota 15” steel wheels, powder coated gray with
original stainless steel hub caps wearing your choice of BF Goodrich
33×10.5 All Terrain or Mud Terrain KO Series tires.
• New vintage Toyota FJ40 bumpers.
• Restored vintage Toyota FJ40 spare tire carrier.

OPTIONS
Once you have selected your primary design package, choose from the following options:
– 5.0:1 Transfer case low range gearing (final crawl ratio of 105:1).
– Warn winch and ARB recovery gear.
– ARB front and rear locking differentials with dedicated air compressor.
– Mine-X exhaust particulate trap.
– Aircraft ceramic exhaust system coating. Protects the exhaust system and extends it’s service life, while enhancing the exhaust tone.
– Audio packages (AM/FM/XM/CD/Ipod/AMP & BASS).
– Garmin Zumo 550 Navigation system.
– PIIA 85W clear glass lense fog light system.
– PIIA Auxiliary rear 85W clear glass lense lights.
– Powertank system. 10 lb. tank holding compressed CO2 which has a wide variety of uses ranging from powering air tools, inflating tires quickly, and for tool power on your property.
– Machine turned, damasked dash panel set.
– Hand tailored soft top, fabricated in Mercedes three layer canvas, with a black wrinkle powder coated steel frame.
– Removable, soft half door upper structures.
– Restored vintage hard top and door package with carbon fiber roof cap (limited availability).
– Heated front seats.
– Tuck and tumble removable rear seat.
– Seating textiles: Choose from standard German marine vinyl or optional
– Chilewich, designer-woven, vinyl seat upholstery with Chilewich rubber backed floor mats.
(Special design requests invited.)

AVAILABILITY
The Icon is built by hand in California by dedicated craftsmen in very low volume. Availability is limited. Please inquire.

CONTACT INFORMATION
TLC Inc.
14743 Oxnard St
Van Nuys Ca USA 91411
Web: www.tlcicon.com
Phone: 818-785-2200
Fax: 818-785-2209
Email: info@tlcicon.com

Okay, radar detectors are not legal in DC. If one were to want a radar detector, one needs to go covert. The Beltronics RX-75 Radar Detector goes stealth and the PRO model offers laser jamming. Even through my e39 BMW 530i is a boring grey sedan, it is a fast boring gray sedan. Think I could get away with installing one?

Since Ford is reintroducing the Ford Taurus in 2008, I am reposting my article, God Save the Ford Taurus. It actually looks like an old Ford Escort. Ewww. Oh, and Ford, the word “heritage” is code for “racist.” What Ford needs to do is launch with the Ford Taurus SHO.

God Save the Ford Taurus

After just an evening and a morning, the Ford Taurus feels dangerous to me.

My car is in the shop and instead of giving me a loaner and leveraging word of mouth marketing the lovely people at BMW of Arlington instead set me up with an Enterprise Ford Taurus with 22k miles on her.

The Ford Taurus feels dangerous to me.

With all the yaw and sway in the suspension and the floppy give in the driver’s seat, I didn’t feel like I had very good control over the car, especially at speed.

Maybe BMW of Arlington does this just to remind their customers that no matter how luxe a BMW can get even in the form of a 750iL flagship sedan, a BMW is always a driver’s machine.

Compared to the Ford Taurus, my E39 530i feels like its on rails and rock solid.

Thank you BMW of Arlington for reminding me what I do have and all the blessings of my life.

I will never take Grace for granted.

RESS RELEASE:

FORD STRENGTHENS RETRO-80s LEADERSHIP WITH INTRODUCTION OF NEW 2008 TAURUS HERITAGE EDITION

* New edition features more than 5 engineering changes, making it more retro, cheezier, mellower and homlier.
* 2.5-liter High Swirl Combustion I-4 delivers an estimated 90 horsepower and 130 ft-lbs of torque.
* Ford Sync™ (not sink) offers new levels of connection, control, simplicity and personalization with the well known relability of Microsoft
* Taurus Heritage Edition will reach showrooms this fall.

CHICAGO, Feb. 7, 2007 – Ford Motor Company today announced it is bringing back the well-known Ford Taurus name, introducing a new special version – Heritage Edition – for its aging hipsters to go on sale this fall.

“Taurus has been an icon for rental sedans for more than two decades, and it’s time to return this powerful name to where it belongs,” said Mark Fields, Ford’s President of The Americas, at the Chicago Auto Show. “Consumer awareness of the Taurus name is double the Five Hundred that it’s replacing, and thats damn good enough for us to forget the latter altogether!.

“By giving these vehicles the bland looks of the 80′s that consumers recognize at the same time we’re making significant upgrades, we’re confident that even more rental companies are going to be attracted to these great products in the future,” Fields added.

The 2008-model Taurus Heritage Edition sedan will go on sale this fall, as an upgrade to the earth shattering ALL NEW Ford Taurus. The new Heritage Edition features a fully flush grille guard with peek-a-boo Ford emblem, a new dual color scheme, a new cornering light, more standard safety features – including dual airbags tuned to explode with that classic pop that made people file lawsuits in the early nineties– and other refinements to make it more retro, cheezier, mellower and homlier.

“0-60 mile-per-hour time of around 4 seconds?” Hubba hubba.

According to Winging Road:

“Slated to debut on Sunday, January 7 at the North American International Auto Show, the HSC is expected to be a 400+ horsepower hybrid concept sports car. Designed by Toyota’s Newport Beach, California studio, the 2+2 boasts a 3.5-liter V-6 yoked to a 650-volt water-cooled motor, and a retractable roof.”

[...]

“And while the concept makes extensive use of pricey materials like carbon fiber and aluminum, the FT-HS is expected to portend a toned-down production variant. There’s some debate about what segment said vehicle would play in, as well as name and cost, but Toyota says it is fantasizing about projecting a price tag of around $35,000 and a 0-60 mile-per-hour time of around 4 seconds.”

My number is 63. When I was a bike courier my call sign was 63. I am 6’3″ tall. My PO Box is 15163. Even my business number is +1 (202) 657-4063. So, I intend to buy a 2007 Mercedes-Benz CL63 AMG some day. Nice ass, eh? Only $125,000 cheap.

From Motor Trend:

‘Sink into supportive sport seats trimmed in beautifully crafted leather. Fire the hand-built, all-aluminum, 518-horsepower V-8, which lights with a bark. Select first gear–the first of seven–via the paddle shifters on the steering wheel. Plant the throttle and blaze off to an intoxicating blend of throbbing intake and burbling exhaust roar. Zero to 60 mph takes a musclecar-beating 4.5 seconds. Ferrari or Lambo? Aston or Z06? No. It’s just one of the newest, hedonistically luxurious four-place coupes from Mercedes-Benz.’
…
‘Even though the premium-coupe market is a niche one, Mercedes-Benz will offer four versions of the CL. The base variant, if there is such a thing, is the 382-horsepower, 5.5-liter V-8-powered CL550. It’s backed by the superb seven-speed 7G-Tronic transmission. Those who want 12-cylinder cachet (and torque) by the boatload can opt for the 510-horsepower, 612-pound-foot CL600; its twin-turbo V-12 shares much with the Maybach powerplant and is backed by the carryover five-speed automatic. Both are currently on sale.’
…
‘The driver’s car of the bunch is the CL63 AMG, loaded with AMG’s naturally aspirated, bespoke 6.2-liter V-8 (it’s called “6.3″ in homage to the performance-minded 300SEL 6.3 model of the late 1960s and early 1970s). It gets an AMG-calibrated version of the seven-speed auto tranny as well as the usual round of AMG upgrades targeted at improved acceleration, handling, braking, luxury, sportiness, and exclusivity. The CL 6.3 AMG hits our shores in April.’
…
‘Intent on smoking your neighbor’s Bentley Continental GT? Pop for the CL65 AMG. Its 604-horsepower, twin-turbo V-12 out-torques the mighty Bentley with 738 (no typo) pound-feet worth and goes on sale next fall. As you’d expect of a luxury flagship, the CL oozes high technology and creature features. The I.P. and swoopy dashboard designs are straight out of the S-Class. Some functions are managed via conventional switchgear, others by the COMAND controller on the lower console. A palm rest for the latter hides the phone keypad. There’s no more console-mounted shifter; it’s been replaced by a stalk on the column–just like Mom’s Galaxie 500 from the 1960s–with the aforementioned shift paddles. It’s nice that all four of the CL’s side windows can be lowered, giving an airy, hardtop look and feel.’
…
‘We criticized the previous CL55 AMG–the car the CL63 replaces–for driver inputs that never felt right. Although it was fast, the 55′s steering loaded up mid-corner, the brake pedal felt wooden, and the Active Body Control suspension felt unnatural in its attempt to quell body roll. It was as if the car’s computers wanted to prove they could drive better than you could. Those issues have been exorcized, replaced by quick, communicative steering, solid-feeling, easy-to-modulate brakes, and computer-managed cornering that doesn’t fight you. Want to drive the CL63 tail out or do a smoky burnout once in a while? Not likely, but you can, because the traction control’s “Off” button truly means off (unless you hit the brakes mid-corner).’
…
‘The 63′s V-8 is handbuilt in-house by AMG, and to call it a marvel motor wouldn’t be an overstatement. It has the displacement needed for good low-end torque andvariable cam timing to help spread the pound-feet all around the tach, and it revs willingly, as any thoroughbred powerplant should. As noted, the intake system and AMG-spec exhaust have been tuned to let the occupant’s ears enjoy the performance. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7G-tronic transmission is the 63′s near-perfect dance partner. There’s a ratio for all occasions, and it’s smooth when you’re cruising and responsive when you’re hauling, although it lacks the beauteous rev-matching throttle blip on downshifts served up by several others. AMG chairman Volker Mornhinweg admits, “We want this and are working on a solution.’
…
’2007 Mercedes-Benz CL63 AMG
Base price $125,000 (MT est)
Vehicle layout Front engine, RWD, 4-pass, 2-door coupe
Engine 6.2L/518-hp/465-lb-ft DOHC 32-valve V-8
Transmission 7-speed automatic
Curb weight 4400 lb (mfr)
Wheelbase 116.3 in
Length x width x height 199.4 x 73.7 x 55.8 in
0-60 mph 4.5 sec (mfr est)
EPA city/hwy fuel econ Not yet rated
On sale in U.S. April 2007′

Well, now that 2007 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG has had its coming out party, the price tag is officially $189,000. Via AMG Mercedes-Benz Enthusiasts.

The Mercedes G-Class is in my top-five cars of all time, from back in the 80s and 90s when the ute was only available through the gray market.

Now, it is just a huge, expensive, available, rare, anti-SUV utility truck, or ute. My dream is an imported G320 or G230. The G is military-grade and the choice of despots and dictators which is why Mercedes “decided to keep the vehicle production going due to vocal support from customers worldwide.” Despots have excellent taste!

Via Forbes and Forbes.