10 of Preferred Ultimate Urban Cars 2011

In 2009, one in every 6.4 Americans — from New York to Honolulu — lived in the top 50 major incorporated cities, according to U.S. census data. And if you're among them, chances are you know all too well what it's like to shoehorn yourself into a tight parallel-parking spot, squeeze between dumpsters and delivery trucks, or witness your bumpers accrue a patchwork of dimples.

It's no wonder that State Farm Insurance reports that a driver living in central Illinois would pay 30 percent lower premiums than if the driver lived in downtown Chicago. Compare upstate New York and Manhattan, and the premium difference climbs to 70 percent.

Some cars ease the urban burden better than others. Our editors set out to find just those few. We surveyed vehicle lengths, turning circles, driving visibility and parking aids. We considered our own driving impressions, looked at EPA city mileage ratings and called out cars that don't have folding side mirrors. From an initial list of 58 models — all 2011s — here are our top 10:

1 - 2011 Mini Cooper

The Mini Cooper refuses to release its grip on the title of Ultimate Urban Car. Yes, it's short — just over 12 feet long — and it turns a fairly tight circle and offers rear parking sensors. But being the ultimate urban car isn't just about parking. The Cooper's wee size and nimble handling make it good for scooting around delivery vehicles or slowpokes, especially if you opt for the turbocharged S trim level. All Coopers have excellent brakes, too, so you're well-protected against the indiscretions of others, such as cellphone-obsessed pedestrians who don't know street from sidewalk. Consider the convertible if you live in a warm climate, but if you're in a wintry city, think twice about the S trim level, which rides too firmly for pothole-ridden streets.

Length: 146.8 inches
Turning circle: 35.1 feet
Seats: 4
City MPG: 28-29 (premium gas)

2 - 2011 Chevrolet Cruze

It's not flashy — OK, it's really not flashy — but the Cruze satisfies the basic transportation needs of any driver extremely well. Chevy also delivers one of its highest-quality interiors along with good fuel economy and, most importantly in the city, a suspension that eats up potholes. Unlike many other small cars, the Cruze also has a sizable backseat for taking friends out to dinner, and the trunk is as big as those you find in some midsize sedans. Plus, if it gets a ding, you're really not going to be too heartbroken.

Length: 181.0 inches
Turning circle: 35.8-36.4 feet
Seats: 5
City MPG: 22-28

3 - 2011 Ford Fiesta

Ford's cosmopolitan-looking Fiesta is all the rage in city-flocked Europe, and it should suit urban America equally well. The manual transmission's light clutch and smooth throws suit the city better than the optional automatic, whose twin-clutch setup has the Fiesta lurching around a bit at low speeds. Either way, the car's near-30 mpg city mileage should minimize trips to the pump. The suspension ticks off manhole covers and alley ruts without lingering aftershocks, and the car's nimble steering will have you maneuvering around stopped taxicabs without breaking a sweat. Ford's available Sync system should appeal to tech enthusiasts, with app integration for a number of smartphones.

Length: 160.1 inches
Turning circle: 34.4 feet
Seats: 5
City MPG: 28-29

4 - 2011 Honda Fit

Like an efficiency apartment, the Honda Fit is a packaging marvel, and it can hold a lot more stuff than its small exterior size would suggest. A tall roofline and low load floor help the hatchback achieve a cavernous 57.3 cubic feet of cargo room with the backseat down. The backseat also flips up, giving it versatility not normally seen in its class. When you take into account gas mileage as high as 28/35 mpg city/highway with an automatic transmission and the Fit's light-on-its-feet nature, this is one hatchback that's made for tackling — and moving things in — cities.

Length: 161.6 inches
Turning circle: 34.4 feet
Seats: 5
City MPG: 27-28

5 - 2011 Hyundai Elantra

We've been impressed with the new cars coming from Hyundai lately, like the Sonata family sedan, and the redesigned Elantra compact car impresses, too. The 2011 model's all-new design brings a heavy dose of style to the small-car segment, but Hyundai delivered on the practical front, too, as all versions of the Elantra get an EPA-estimated 29/40 mpg. The emphasis on design carries over to the cabin, which is distinctive and functional. All in all, the Elantra drives, looks and feels like a more expensive car than it actually is, and it's hard to put a price on that.

Length: 178.3 inches
Turning circle: 34.8 feet
Seats: 5
City MPG: 29

6 - 2011 Kia Forte

Kia's Forte debuted as a compact sedan, with a coupe and four-door hatchback following in quick succession. While the two-door is fun and the four-door is sensible, the hatchback may be the best option for city dwellers. You get the same well-designed interior and a capable engine, along with the numerous standard features and the low price of the sedan. And don't forget the extra cargo room. It may not drive as sportingly as the Mazda3 or even the Toyota Matrix, but the Forte costs significantly less and delivers better gas mileage. Those are two convincing reasons to go with the Kia.

Length: 170.9 inches
Turning circle: 33.8 feet
Seats: 5
City MPG: 22-25

7 - 2011 Kia Soul

The Soul's boxy lines liken a sort of Mini-Me version of the delivery trucks crawling any city street. Get one in brown, and the UPS driver might give you a friendly honk. (Not that you'd be able to distinguish it from the other honks.) The Soul's four-cylinder engine — most trims have a 2.0-liter — gets the job done, if unremarkably, and the highly assisted steering comes in handy at urban speeds. The trendy interior will appeal to a certain type of city dweller, with available features that include speakers that illuminate in sync with your music. Not surprisingly, they tend to work better with Lady Gaga than Lynyrd Skynyrd.

Length: 161.6 inches
Turning circle: 34.4 feet
Seats: 5
City MPG: 24-26

8 - 2011 Nissan Leaf

The Nissan Leaf is perfect for the city, and vice versa. With a range as high as 100 miles, the battery-electric Leaf is great for the average commute. It's more efficient at moderate speeds than on the highway, so trips around downtown areas are where it's most capable. Unlike gas-powered cars, which waste fuel in traffic jams, the Leaf's battery isn't depleted as it crawls along, barring excessive use of the heat or air conditioner. City centers are where public charging is proliferating, which should diminish range anxiety. An optional backup camera is a coup for parking purposes.

Length: 175.0 inches
Turning circle: 34.2 feet
Seats: 5
City MPG: 106 MPGe

9 - 2011 Volkswagen Golf TDI

With the diesel-powered Golf TDI, fuel economy and driving fun happily coexist. The Golf TDI is rated at 30/42 mpg in all its forms, and the diesel four-cylinder's robust torque — combined with a nimble chassis — will have you slicing through urban traffic in no time. This is an entertaining driver's car. Inside, the Golf TDI features a level of quality that not many competitors can match, and whether you get the two- or four-door hatchback model, the cabin is versatile, capable of swallowing loads of cargo for that crosstown move. It's a car that will turn diesel skeptics into believers.

Length: 165.4 inches
Turning circle: 35.8 feet
Seats: 5
City MPG: 30 (diesel)

10 - 2011 Toyota Yaris

Not many cars can turn a full circle in under 35 feet. The fact that the Yaris does it in under 31 feet is extraordinary — and handy in tight corners and parallel parking. The car's basic exterior leaves no fog lights or chrome trim at risk for curb encounters, and in hatchback form, its stubby dimensions should make it easy to wedge into tight spaces. Inside, the cabin's three glove compartments allows space to stash valuables away from prying eyes, and the car's four-cylinder is peppier than its 106 horsepower might suggest. The car also starts under $13,000 — which gives at least one cheap aspect to city living.

Length: 150.6 inches
Turning circle: 30.8 feet
Seats: 5
City MPG: 29

• Reference/Source: yahoo.com by Kelsey Mays of Cars.com [Tue, May 31, 2011]

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Top 10 of the World's Most Expensive Cars (2010 - 2011)

What is the most expensive car in the world? The 1931 Bugatti Royale Kellner Coupe was sold for $8,700,000 in 1987. However, that car and many alike will not be included in this list because it is not available on the market today. It is hard to imagine someone would actually spend 8 million dollars on a car instead of using it for something more productive. However, if you have the money and the opportunity, you will definitely spend a small fraction of it to place a few of these supercars in your garage.

I've just read this list from thesupercars.org and it seems reasonable to add this to our collection of top 10 list.

Here are the 10 most expensive production cars on the market.

1. Bugatti Veyron - $1,700,000

This is by far the most expensive street legal car available on the market today. It is the fastest accelerating car reaching 0-60 in 2.5 seconds. It is also the fastest street legal car when tested again on July 10, 2010 with the 2010 Super Sport Version reaching a top speed of 267 mph. When competing against the Bugatti Veyron, you better be prepared!

2. Lamborghini Reventon - $1,600,000

The most powerful and the most expensive Lamborghini ever built is the second on the list. It takes 3.3 seconds to reach 60 mph and it has a top speed of 211 mph. Its rarity (limited to 20) and slick design are the reasons why it is so expensive and costly to own.

3. McLaren F1 - $970,000

In 1994, the McLaren F1 was the fastest and most expensive car. Even though it was built 15 years ago, it has an unbelievable top speed of 240 mph and reaching 60 mph in 3.2 seconds. Even as of today, the McLaren F1 is still top on the list and it outperformed many other supercars.

4. Ferrari Enzo - $670,000

The most known supercar ever built. The Enzo has a top speed of 217 mph and reaching 60 mph in 3.4 seconds. Only 400 units were produced and it is currently being sold for over $1,000,000 at auctions.

5. Pagani Zonda C12 F - $667,321

Produced by a small independent company in Italy, the Pagani Zonda C12 F is the 5th fastest car in the world. It promises to delivery a top speed of 215 mph+ and it can reach 0-60 in 3.5 seconds.

6. SSC Ultimate Aero - $654,400

Don't let the price tag fool you, the 6th most expensive car is actually the 2nd fastest street legal car in the world with a top speed of 257 mph+ and reaching 0-60 in 2.7 seconds. This baby cost nearly half as much as the Bugatti Veyron, yet has enough power to compete against the most expensive car. It is estimated that only 25 of this exact model will ever be produced.

7. Saleen S7 Twin Turbo - $555,000

The first true American production certified supercar, this cowboy is also rank 3rd for the fastest car in the world. It has a top speed of 248 mph+ and it can reach 0-60 in 3.2 seconds. If you are a true American patriot, you can be proud to show off this car.

8. Koenigsegg CCX - $545,568

Swedish made, the Koenigsegg is fighting hard to become the fastest car in the world. Currently, it is the 4th fastest car in the world with a top speed of 245 mph+, the car manufacture Koenigsegg is not giving up and will continue to try and produce the fastest car. Good luck with that!

9. Mercedes Benz SLR McLaren Roadster - $495,000

A GT supercar, the SLR McLaren is the fastest automatic transmission car in the world with a top speed of 206 mph+ and reaching 60 mph in 3.8 seconds. It is a luxurious convertible with a really powerful engine, which results in outstanding performances and style.

10. Porsche Carrera GT - $440,000

A supercar with dynamic stability control and a top speed of 205 mph+ and it can reach 0-60 in 3.9 seconds. The Porsche Carrera GT applies the absolute calibers of a true racing car to offer an unprecedented driving feeling on the road.

HUMOR Me...

A hip young man goes out and buys a 1997 McLaren F1. It is the best and most expensive car available in the world, costing about $2,500,000. He takes it out for a spin and while stopping for a red light, an old man on a moped (both looking about 90 years old) pulls up next to him. The old man looks over the sleek, shiny surface of the car and asks, "What kind of car ya' got there, sonny?" The young man replies, "A 1997 McLaren F1. They cost about two and a half million dollars!" "That's a lot of money," says the old man, shocked. "Why does it cost so much?" "Because this car can do up to 230 miles an hour!" states the cool dude proudly. The moped driver asks, "Can I take a look inside?" "Sure," replies the owner. So the old man pokes his head in the window and looks around. Leaning back on his moped, the old man says, "That's a pretty nice car, all right!" Just then the light changes so the guy decides to show the old man what his car can do. He floors it, and within 30 seconds the speedometer reads 230 mph. Suddenly, he notices a dot in his rear view mirror. It seems to be getting closer! He slows down to see what it could be and suddenly, whhhoooossshhh! Something whips by him, going much faster! "What on earth could be going faster than my McLaren F1?!" the young man asks himself. Then, ahead of him, he sees a dot coming toward him. Whoooooosh! It goes by again, heading the opposite direction! And it almost looked like the old man on the moped! "Couldn't be," thinks the guy. "How could a moped outrun a McLaren F1?!" Again, he sees a dot in his rear view mirror! Whooooosh Ka-BbblaMMM! It plows into the back of his car, demolishing the rear end. The young man jumps out, and it IS the old man! Of course, the moped and the old man are hurting for certain. He runs up to the dying old man and says, "You're badly hurt! Is there anything I can do for you?" The old man moans and replies, "Yes, could you please unhook my suspenders from your side mirror?!"

• Reference/Source: thesupercars.org

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The Top 10 North American International Auto Show American Debuts 2011

As the biggest auto show in the world’s largest automobile market, Detroit’s North American International Auto Show's (NAIAS) importance cannot be overstated. Manufacturers bring only their best to Detroit, transforming the show floor into automotive nirvana for two weeks in January. As the home show for Detroit’s Big Three (Chrysler, Ford and GM), a strong showing here is all but guaranteed.

Continuing their shift away from oversize SUVs, the Big Three populated their 2011 booths with smartly engineered, “right-size” vehicles. High-tech, small-displacement engines and alternative powertrains ruled the NAIAS floor, showing that America is ready to take charge and innovate in an increasingly fuel-conscious market. Of course, the 2011 NAIAS showed that America still knows how to do big motors. To keep up with the shifting trends of American vehicles, here are the Top 10 American rides of the 2011 North American International Auto Show.

No.10 Chrysler 200 Super S

Chrysler debuted its Sebring replacement -- the 200 sedan -- at last year’s Los Angeles Auto Show. To keep interest up in the car -- and perhaps to distance the new car as far as possible from the unloved Sebring -- Chrysler unveiled a tuned version at the 2011 NAIAS. Built by Mopar and dubbed the 200 Super S, this sedan doesn’t look like a rental-ready embarrassment, though it does seem that its modifications are mostly cosmetic. Sprayed in two-tone tungsten on matte black, this SEMA-ready ride features a louvered hood, a revised grille and a Mopar-designed aero kit. The ride height has been dropped 3 inches, and the sedan now rides on 19-inch rolling stock. The result is a car that is rather attractive -- and maybe even attractive enough to make everyone forget about the Sebring.

No.9 Chrysler 300

Chrysler’s $1 billion investment in the redesign of its 2011 300 sedan has resulted in a sleeker car with a classic, more refined appearance. The bricklike styling was tossed in favor of a more conventional look, likely due to the fact that this car is slated to be sold as a Lancia in Europe. Bold, brash and defiantly American cars just don’t work over there, apparently.

Corners appear softer, the gun-slit side windows have been enlarged, the front windscreen leans back an extra Fat Joe-approved 3 inches, and the headlamps and Bentley-inspired chrome grille have been tossed in favor of more subtle pieces. The interior -- long the weakest part of any Chrysler product -- has been revamped and features materials that are actually pleasant to the touch and an 8.1-inch Uconnect infotainment system. No mention yet of an SRT version; the standard car will be powered by a 292-horsepower V6.

No.8 Buick Verano

Buick continues to crank out fresh, new product as it transforms from a stodgy brand for the geriatric set into a symbol of modern 21st-century luxury. Making its debut at the 2011 NAIAS was Buick’s smallest offering: the Verano. Riding atop the same platform as Chevrolet’s critically lauded Cruze, the Verano is GM’s compact, entry-level luxury sedan. With just a 177-horsepower, 2.4-liter inline four driving the front wheels, the Verano wasn’t designed to be a BMW-shaming screamer. Buick instead focused its efforts on creating a well-finished, hyperquiet ride. Still, it’s 8.0-second 0-60 time is respectable, and its estimated 31 highway mpg will surely be appreciated. Those with a need for more speed will want to hold out for the 2.0-liter turbocharged mill that will be available post-launch.

No.7 Chevrolet Sonic

Formerly known as the Spark, Chevrolet’s Sonic replaces the not-so-loved Aveo and has been designed to earn GM conquest sales in the highly competitive subcompact market. Pulling consumers away from loved nameplates like the Fit and Fiesta is tough, but GM is hoping to win buyers over by offering them more -- namely, more features and more power. Available features include remote start, heated front seats and OnStar. Power comes from a naturally aspirated 1.8-liter, 135-horsepower four banger. The turbocharged 1.4-liter, 138-horsepower motor from the Cruze -- mated only to a 6-speed manual -- is also an option. Corvette engineers were called upon to handle suspension-tuning duties, a fact that suggests the Sonic will be a rather fun car to drive. We’re holding out hope that the Sonic Z-Spec, which includes Brembo brakes, BBS wheels and Recaro seats, makes it out of the concept stage and becomes an actual production vehicle.

No.6 Ford C-MAX

A favorite in Europe, Ford’s Focus-based C-MAX people carrier is finally coming to America. The 2011 NAIAS featured the world’s first look at the next-generation C-MAX as well as a look at Ford’s first ever 1.6-liter turbocharged EcoBoost motor -- a powertrain option for the standard vehicle. Two additional versions of the C-MAX get some form of battery assist: the C-MAX Hybrid and the C-MAX Energi. Ford is keeping tight-lipped about the Hybrid, saying only that it is able to achieve 41 mpg -- a better number than that of the Fusion Hybrid. The C-MAX Energi is a plug-in version of the Hybrid, with a claimed range of 500 miles. Expect more information on these vehicles to come closer to the standard C-MAX’s release date later this year.

No.5 Tesla Model S

Though no longer new, Tesla brought out its Model S luxury sedan prototype back to Cobo Hall for the 2011 NAIAS. As nice as the sedan is, the production vehicle still doesn’t have a solid release date, and throngs of car fans and pundits still deride the vehicle as vaporware. To show the world that, yes, the car actually is still in development, taking center stage in Tesla’s booth was a deconstructed, preproduction Model S body-in-white. Opting to lets its aluminum frame do the talking, this beta chassis was left naked so as to show (or at least hint at) the vehicle’s final tooling, which, in turn, would hopefully send the message that a production version would be arriving shortly. The Model S is slated to be ready for sale by mid-2012 and will carry a base price of around $57,400.

No.4 Ford Focus Electric

Ford’s first purely electric vehicle -- the five-door Focus Electric -- is scheduled to hit showrooms in late 2011. Looking to improve upon the competition in more ways than just looks, Ford is claiming that its handsome all-electric Focus achieves a better mile-per-gallon equivalent than Chevrolet’s Volt and recharges more quickly than Nissan’s Leaf. Total range numbers have yet to be announced, but the torque-happy electric motor will briskly whisk the Focus Electric to a top speed of 84 mph. Ford’s Focus Electric also appeals to the gadget crowd, with technologies like SYNC connectivity, a MyFord Touch system unique to the battery-powered car and MyFord Mobile, which lets users pair their smartphones to the car to monitor vitals such as charge cycles and vehicle settings.

No.3 GMC Sierra All-Terrain HD

Looking more like Master Chief’s Warthog than a standard work truck, GMC’s Sierra All-Terrain HD concept is GM’s concept of a potential Raptor fighter. Rumored to be more or less production-ready, this four-wheel-drive truck boasts a wider-than-wide stance, an increased ride height, heavy-duty suspension components, and 35-inch BFGoodrich mud tires. Powering this beast is a 6.6-liter Duramax diesel V8 that churns out 397 horsepower and enough torque (765 lb-ft) to alter the Earth’s rotation. Expect the standard, non-mountain-jumping version of the Sierra to look similar to this truck -- minus the hard-core off-road gear, of course.

No.2 Ford Vertrek Concept

The kinetically styled crossover you see here is Ford’s Vertrek concept, rumored to be the replacement for the North American Escape and European Kuga. Built upon the same global C-segment platform as the Fiesta and C-MAX, this vehicle is made more for style than towing or off-road ability. The European chassis will likely give a production version of this CUV engaging driving dynamics, and the 1.6-liter EcoBoost four banger with Ford’s Auto Start-Stop technology should deliver ample performance and fuel savings. As the Vertrek is officially just a concept, Ford hasn’t bothered with listing any numbers as far as expected engine output, performance or fuel economy. Ford also hasn’t mentioned if or when a production version of the Vertrek will be released, and if it is released, whether it will be called the Vertrek or retain the Escape name.

No.1 Cadillac CTS-V Coupe SCCA Race Car

Few cars fill us with sheer desire the way Cadillac’s CTS-V Coupe SCCA Race Car does. Built with the singular purpose of dominating the Sports Car Club of America World Challenge GT racing series, this Caddy was built to go fast and look good while doing it. The first race of the season is still a couple of months away, and much like those “demonstration of concept” cars we see at SEMA, Cadillac and the builders are keeping mum as to the work that has gone into this race car (due either to secrecy or to the fact that the car may not be finished yet). We almost left this car off the list because of the fact that it will never be available to the public, but with the tarmac-hugging ride height, side-exit exhausts and NACA ducts galore, this Cadillac is hands down one of the coolest cars at the NAIAS, and is therefore more than deserving of a place on this list.

• Reference/Source: askmen.com by Justin Kaehler

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The Ten Most and Least Expensive Cars in 2011

With the calendar year changing from 2010 to 2011, insurance adjusters have recompiled their actuarial tables and that means a new list of the cheapest and most expensive vehicles to insure for the new year. In this case, Insure.com recently conducted a survey of the nations six top insurance carriers and complied a list of 40 vehicles that take top honors in each category.

The study goes past the specific model and narrows down vehicles by trim. Somewhat unsurprisingly, the least expensive vehicles are dominated by minivans, while the most expensive list is filled with high-powered German machines. We cut down the list of 40 to show you the top 10 from each side of the fence and included the average annual premium for each vehicle after the jump.


Top 10 Least Expensive to Insure:

10. Toyota Highlander ($1,154.02)

9. Ford Escape ($1,150.26)

8. Toyota Sienna ($1,142.94)

7. Honda Odyssey EX ($1,138.16)

6. Jeep Wrangler ($1,131.27)

5. Nissan Murano ($1,127.84)

4. Honda Odyssey LX ($1,114.62)

3. Toyota Sienna LE ($1,107.70)

2. Toyota Sienna ($1,100.66)

1. Chrysler Town & Country LX ($1,091.80)

Top 10 Most Expensive to Insure:

10. Mercedes-Benz G55 AMG ($3,086.49)

9. Aston Martin DB9 Volante ($3,088.96)

8. Porsche 911 Carrera S ($3,092.31)

7. Mercedes-Benz CL600 ($3,114.28)

6. Aston Martin DB9 ($3,120.45)

5. Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG ($3,220.86)

4. Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG ($3,263.46)

3. BMW 750Li ($3,280.70)

2. BMW 750i ($3,280.70)

1. Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG ($3,543.81)

• Reference/Source: autoblog.com by Jeff Glucker(Jan 11th 2011) and insure.com

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Picks for the Top Ten 2011 BMW Models

Is it just us or do you ever find yourself wasting time on BMW’s website optioning up your favorite Bavarian sedans, coupes and SUVs? Well, maybe it’s just us. We have spent enough time investigating the many trim levels and engines on offer with various 2011 BMW models and we think these are ten of the best. Do you agree?

And remember, just because it is expensive doesn’t always mean it’s good. That’s why the M6 (or any 6-series for that matter) is nowhere to be found on this list. So even though the economy is tough it never hurts to dream a little bit, now does it?

2011 BMW 128i Coupe
A luxury car maker is only as good as its most basic, stripped out model and in some ways a manual transmission equipped 128i is the closest you can come to finding a true 2002ti (the iconic 60’s coupe that put BMW on the map) descendant in the BMW line. The 128i is all about driving, the feel of the sweet shifting manual and the melodious straight six. No turbos, no gadgets—just one of the most fun to drive cars around.

But if you do have nearly $50,000 lying around the new 1-Series M variant looks set to be a whole lot of fun. Too bad they are only sending 1,000 to the United States.

2011 BMW 328i Sedan
Having recently driven an automatic 328i for the first time we were shocked at how fast it was thanks to the lightning quick reflexes of that gearbox. While we would prefer a manual transmission 328i there is no shame (or feeling of lethargy) when behind the wheel of this entry level 3-series.

2011 BMW 335i Coupe
If you are going to treat yourself to a coupe you might as well go the whole hog and enjoy the turbocharged 300 horsepower straight six in the 335i. As with any 3 build quality is exemplary, handling out of this world and the steering has more natural feel than ten of its competitors put together.

For the new model year all 335i models have 3.0 liter straight 6 engines with one turbocharger instead of the two that came with last year’s version. Oddly enough, power output is identical for both motors but efficiency is improved thanks to a new 8-speed automatic option. There is a high performance 335is coupe model on offer, however, with a more powerful version of the old twin turbo engine. Got that?

2011 BMW 335d Sedan
Attention all eco-geeks or tree stump pulling torque lovers! You can now officially have your cake and eat it too. The driving pleasure of a 3-series sedan mixed with a diesel 6 with 425 lb. feet of torque (more than the M3) and 36 miles per gallon highway. Could it get any better? Well, BMW could offer it with a manual transmission option but we should just be glad it’s even here.

2011 BMW 535i
The new shape 5-series may not be ground breaking or even all that attractive but the interior shares many upscale styling cues with the luxurious 7-series. It may not make you weak at the knees but it should make for a fun to drive executive express.

2011 BMW X5 xDrive35d
While most people probably say they bought their X5 diesel because of the environment or because of concerns about gas prices, the reason they love their X5 diesel is because of the fact that it is E.T. mothership fast at passing speeds. This car has so much power when the turbo is on boost that if you aren’t used to it you could easily find yourself in the rear fender of that Hyundai in front of you.

2011 BMW X6 M-Series
Take an SUV, remove the utility (read: spaciousness) and send it to the guys who brought you the M3 and M5 sport sedan icon. After that happens you should get a vehicle that makes no sense. And really, it doesn’t. But that is the beauty of the X6. Despite it having no purpose this thing looks cool, goes like stink (thanks to a turbo V8) and handles better than most any other SUV out there. They did it just because they knew they could and BMW should be applauded for that.

2011 BMW Z4 sDrive35i
Simply put this is the best looking folding hardtop convertible on the market today with the top up or the top down. Although you may lose most of the trunk with the top down you really won’t care because you will be looking gorgeous. And the 300 horsepower 6-cylinder version goes like stink in such a lightweight and small vehicle application.

2011 BMW M3 Sedan (Manual Transmission model)
This is a performance sedan offers a V8 that actually requires a lot of revs to get the most performance from it. We are not sure that has ever been the case with an 8 cylinder before but we love that BMW
is up to challenging its M-powered drivers. With the M division downsizing engines it appears that this may be the only and last 8-cylinder 3-series.

2011 BMW 750 Li Extended Wheelbase
This luxo-barge may lack the V-12 from the 760Li extended wheelbase model but thankfully it retains its limo-like rear legroom. The other benefit is that the 750 starts at $88,000 as opposed to the quasi-ridiculous 760Li which starts off at $137,000. For that much money a Bentley or Maserati is within easy reach. That’s why the 750Li makes so much more sense. That is, if spending nearly $100,000 on a car can ever be called sensible.

• Reference/Source: insidercarreviews.com By James Hamel

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The Best 10 Vintage Cars

Source: http://hubpages.com |

There’s just something about old cars… the power, the beauty, the sheer majesty of a machine that’s recognized and respected the world over. The definitions of “vintage” and “classic” cars may vary slightly depending upon where you live and who you ask, but some cars just seem to stand out a bit from the rest; even when compared to modern cars that are loaded with features and which can top speeds that were once thought impossible, these cars are quick to be noticed and fawned over by their fans. Fast cars are great, and groundbreaking new features can definitely get the crowd to “ooh” and “ahh”… but even the most high tech example of modern automotive engineering pales in comparison to the breathtaking beauty and style of some of these true classics.
Of course, the cars that make the list of the best vintage cars ever will differ slightly depending on who’s making the list; different individuals may pick out different model years, or other cars which aren’t included on this specific listing. It’s not easy picking out just 10 cars from all of the amazing machines that have graced the roads and raceways over the years, so feel free to disagree with some of these choices if your favorite vintage ride didn’t make the top 10.

1927 Ford Model T

Picture of non-black 1927 Model T at Greenfield Village, photo by rmhermen

When looking at vintage cars, it’s hard to surpass the enduring style and legacy of the Model T. This car is generally viewed as being the first affordable production automobile, and set the standard for what a classic car should look like way back in 1908. A variety of changes were made to the design of the Model T during the 19 years that it was in production, culminating in the 1927 model that is still sought after by collectors and makers of classic reproductions today.
The Model T (or the Tin Lizzie, as it was often called) is a great example of how a car doesn’t have to be the fastest available to still be revered by those who appreciate great vehicles; even though it only had two gears, the Model T was still voted “Car of the Century” in 1999, beating out other classics such as the Volkswagen Beetle, the Mini, and the Porche 911 with a considerable lead.

1969 Corvette Sting Ray (no, it's NOT Stingray it's Sting Ray)

Next we have a car that needs no introduction… from its instantly recognizable body shape to the iconic crossed-flags emblem, it’s hard to imagine any listing of the greatest vintage cars of all time that doesn’t include some version of the Corvette. One of the cars that defined American muscle in the 60’s, Chevrolet’s Corvette Sting Ray coupe is quite possibly one of the most famous cars ever produced. Corvettes have appeared as centerpieces for countless movies, and ever since production started on this classic line they’ve been seen as a definition of simplicity and style.
The 1969 Corvette Sting Ray saw the peak of Corvette cool, before automotive styles began to change and the Corvette shifted to the changes it would feature in the 70’s and 80’s. The ’69 Stingray featured a split rear suspension, disc brakes, a “big block” engine, side exhaust pipes, the classic split rear window of the Sting Ray, and a variety of other features that make it remain a highly desired car even to this day.

1967 Ford Mustang

When looking at American muscle cars like the ’69 Sting Ray, you can’t overlook the Mustang from the Ford Motor Company. Even today, filmmakers and producers look to the Mustangs of the 60’s when they want a vehicle that conveys pure power and indomitable force… and nothing does this better than the 1967 Mustang. It was in ’67 that the Mustang received its first real increases in length and height, and it was given a wider body frame which allowed for the inclusion on a “big block” engine to give this beast plenty of horsepower. This was combined with a variety of extra vintage car parts giving features such as power disc brakes, a tilt steering wheel, and the innovative FMX transmission which allowed for fully automatic shifting in addition to manual shifting.

1969 Camaro SS

It seems that 1969 was a very good year for Chevrolet. In addition to producing a classic powerhouse like the ’69 Corvette Sting Ray, Chevy also released the last model in the first generation of Camaros. The ’69 Camaro SS featured a sporty look that still was obviously aggressive (thanks to a new sheet metal body, deep-set headlights, a redesigned grill, and a variety of other design changes.) Chevrolet allowed for some changes in their ordering process for this model year as well, which let dealers order Camaros with engines over the usual limit of 400 cc (6.6 L)… this resulted in Camaros featuring 427 engines, and helped to establish the Camaro’s reputation as a powerful machine that refused to back down.

1948 Tucker

Photo by Sean O'Flaherty

The Tucker was truly an innovation in the world of automotive design, and though the 1948 model was the only model ever produced its effect on the world of automobiles can still be felt to this day. Preston Tucker and Alex Tremulis designed the Tucker as an attempt to break into the automotive industry, and though only a handful of cars were produced the features that were present in those cars were extremely innovative for the time.

1948 Tucker plans

Though the Tucker was doomed to failure due to SEC lawsuits and behind-the-scenes activities by major automotive companies who didn’t want an independent automotive manufacturer to succeed, a significant number of the 51 Tuckers produced are still road-worthy and are considered to be one of the ultimate automotive collectibles for those lucky enough to be able to get their hands on one.

1967 Volkswagen Beetle

photo taken by Morio

Though it’s not a powerhouse like some of the other cars on this list, the 1967 Volkswagen Beetle is instantly recognizable and could quite possibly be one of the more famous vehicles ever produced. Originally known simply as the Volkswagen Type 1, by 1967 the German motor company decided to embrace the nicknames such as the “Beetle” and “Bug” that their car had received by an adoring public. The ’67 Beetle featured a variety of improvements over its predecessors in addition to formally adopting it’s new name; a new drivetrain was included, the engine was made larger, and the electrical generator doubled its output as it was converted to a 12V system. Additional changes were also made to the braking system, clutch disc, and various other features, making the ’67 Beetle a functionally different car than anything that had come before, and it's one on this list that won't sting you TOO badly for vintage car insurance!.

1964 Porsche 911

Any list of classic cars wouldn’t be complete without an entry featuring the Porsche 911, which was originally developed as a replacement for the smaller and less comfortable Porsche 356 (and also as somewhat of a more sporting evolution of the Volkswagen Beetle, as many of the early Porsche cars used parts from Volkswagen vehicles.) When introduced in 1964, the 911 featured an air-cooled rear mounted engine and a five speed manual transmission. Though it contained four seats, the rear seats were very small and many considered it to be a “2 + 2” vehicle as opposed to a true four-seater. Though the Porsche 911 has remained in production since its original introduction, many still prefer the older models for their classical styling and air-cooled engines (as the company changed to water-cooled engines in 1998.)

1962 Maserati 3500

The Maserati 3500 was created in an attempt to allow the Maserati company to tap into the growing Grand Turismo market, resulting in a classic car that not only had competitive power but was also able to keep up with many of the innovations of the time. When the car was first introduced in 1957, it featured a variety of changes to the design of the initial prototype; by 1962, a number of additional options had been added as standard features. The ’62 Maserati 3500 featured front and rear disc brakes, a limited slip differential, power windows, leather interior seating, and all of the power that one might expect from its six-cylinder engine and four-speed transmission. The 3500 would also serve as the basis for other Maserati products, such as the 3500 GTi (which was introduced as the first Italian production car featuring fuel injection.)

1967 Ford GT40

Another powerhouse from Ford in the 1960’s, the Ford GT40 was designed primarily as a racing car (though according to race rules, at least a limited number of the cars had to be made available for sale to private owners.) The GT40 had been intended as a primary competitor against the cars being made by Ferrari, after an attempt to buy the Ferrari company by Ford Motors fell through in 1963. Different versions of the car were produced, labeled Mark I, Mark II, and Mark III, with the differences being largely the engine size and (in the case of the Mark III) the purpose for which the car was designed and built. As these cars were designed primarily for limited use in Grand Turismo races, any collector who owns an original ’67 GT40 considers himself quite lucky indeed.

1953 Aston Martin DB2

Image (c) Peter Madle http://www.madle.org

The Aston Martin DB2 was developed in 1950 as a replacement for the previous Aston Martin 2-Litre Sports car. It featured a larger, dual overhead cam straight 6 engine, and was originally designed as a closed coupe racing car. By 1953, a convertible version of this classic car had also been introduced as well as engine options which provided for additional horsepower. Though the DB2 was only in production for 3 years, it served as a basis for many other Aston Martin vehicles which proved to be very popular both on the racetrack and as a road car.

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Fastest Cars In The World: Top 10 List 2010-2011

Source: http://www.thesupercars.org |
While most of us can only dream of owning the fastest car in the world, some will do whatever it takes to possess such speed and power. So, how fast are the fastest cars in the world? Here are the 10 fastest cars available on the market measures by top speed.

1. Bugatti Veyron: 267 mph, 0-60 in 2.5 secs. Aluminum, Narrow Angle 8 Liter W16 Engine with 1200 hp, base price is $1,700,000. Tested again on July 10, 2010 with the new 2010 Super Sport Version, the Bugatti Veyron once again claimed its title as the fastest car in the world at 267 mph.

2. SSC Ultimate Aero: 257 mph, 0-60 in 2.7 secs. Twin-Turbo V8 Engine with 1183 hp, base price is $654,400. Tested in March 2007 by Guinness World Records, The SSC Ultimate Aero was the fastest car in the world from March 2007 to July 2010 until recently it fell behind the Bugatti Veyron to take the #2 spot.

3. Saleen S7 Twin-Turbo: 248 mph, 0-60 in 3.2 secs. Twin Turbo All Aluminum V8 Engine with 750 hp, base price is $555,000. Smooth and bad-ass, will make you want to show it off non-stop.

4. Koenigsegg CCX: 245 mph, 0-60 in 3.2 secs. 90 Degree V8 Engine 806 hp, base price is $545,568. Made in Sweden, it is aiming hard to be the fastest car in the world, but it has a long way to go to surpass the Bugatti and the Ultimate Aero.

5. McLaren F1: 240 mph, 0-60 in 3.2 secs. BMW S70/2 60 Degree V12 Engine with 627 hp, base price is $970,000. Check out the doors, they looks like bat wings, maybe Batman need to order one and paints it black
6. Ferrari Enzo: 217 mph, 0-60 in 3.4 secs. F140 Aluminum V12 Engine with 660 hp, base price is $670,000. Only 399 ever produced, the price goes up every time someone crashes.
7. Jaguar XJ220: 217 mph, 0-60 in 3.8 secs. Twin Turbo V6 Engine with 542 hp, base price was $650,000. Made in 1992, this car still got what it takes to make the list.

8. Pagani Zonda F: 215 mph, 0-60 in 3.5 secs. Mercedes Benz M180 V12 Engine with 650 hp, base price is $667,321. With a V12 motor, this baby can do much better.
9. Lamborghini Murcielago LP640: 211 mph, 0-60 in 3.3 secs. V12 Engine with 640 hp, base price is $430,000. Nice piece of art, the design is very round and smooth.

10. Porsche Carrera GT: 205 mph, 0-60 in 3.9 secs. Aluminum, 68 Degree, Water Cooled V10 Engine with 612 hp, base price is $440,000. The most powerful and most expensive Porsche  nearly made the list as #10.

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