Slidershow

субота, 8. јануар 2011.

Limousine Nissan Teana

Mitsuoka, a car manufacturing company in Japan, has launched Galue Limousine development model based on the latest version of the Nissan Teana.
 
Mitsuoka Motors is a Japanese company specializing in automotive design style used by other companies to launch new models, domestic consumption. Himiko notably Roadster models developed based on Mazda MX-5, Galue Convertible Ford Mustang-based development, and sample Orochi ...



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 Latest product Mitsuoka Galue Limousine is based on developing a new version of the Nissan Teana (below).

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 Nissan Teana


These images introduce vehicles that Mitsuoka Galue Limousine announced and showed the tail-style blend of Bentley and Rolls-Royce. Clusters associated backlight suggests pretty small car Fiat 500 Italian.

 
Galue Limousine car has many versions and two engine choices: 2.5L and 3.5L V6. This car will be available in the Japanese market in November, with prices ranging from 3.68 to 5.284 million yen (about 44,700 to 64,200 USD).



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BMW X5 M Sport

The BMW X5 M Sport is a new production signed "M". With large circles of 19 and 20 package includes elements that emphasize the outward appearance, sporty design in aluminum for the interior and more sporting suspension.

2008 BMW X5 M Sport
BMW X5 M Sport

Thanks to the extraordinary quality of driving dynamics, the new BMW X5 has assured the leadership in its segment. The potential in terms of performance of SAV BMW can now be brought into greater prominence. For the first time, BMW X5 M Sport package is available for the new BMW X5, a series of measures that enhance and bring out further, even visually, the dynamic potential of the car.

2008 BMW X5 M Sport
BMW X5 M Sport

The new BMW X5 M Sport package includes elements that emphasize the outward appearance, a sporty design for the interior and sports suspension. BMW X5 is ideally intended to consolidate its competitive advantage over the opponents.

2008 BMW X5 M Sport
BMW X5 M Sport

The BMW X5 equipped with the BMW X5 M Sport Package highlights its dynamism in a discreet, stylish, but unmistakably through the use of external elements in the body color. In addition to the bumper, the side skirts and moldings to protect doors, wheel arches also increased the characteristic design stress M.

2008 BMW X5 M Sport
BMW X5 M Sport

As an alternative to looking for 19-inch M light alloy V-ray series in the sport package, the BMW X5 M Sport can be provided at the request of M alloy wheels from 20 inches. In both cases the front wheels and rear tires fitted to two different measures designed exclusively for BMW X5. The development for high speed sports suspension also included in the BMW X5 M Sport package, complete the equipment to enhance driving dynamics.

2008 BMW X5 M Sport
BMW X5 M Sport

Electrically adjustable sports seats for driver and front passenger, an M steering wheel clad in leather, aluminum interior moldings (in finely brushed lengthwise) and a coating of BMW Individual anthracite-colored sky of the passenger to become the interior of the BMW X5 equipped with the BMW X5 M Sport package for a unique driving SAV.

2008 BMW X5 M Sport

BMW X5 M Sport

You can also combine the elements of the BMW X5 M Sport package with additional optional programs offered by BMW and BMW Individual, allowing further customization dell'X5 according to the preferences and needs of the customer. For example, agility can be further enhanced with the adoption of the package of Adaptive Drive suspension, characterized by active control of the same suspension and electronically controlled dome, and with the adoption of active steering Active Steering.

2008 BMW X5 M Sport
BMW X5 M Sport

In addition to that, are also available, in addition to the normal colors and metallic range BMW X5, Carbon Black Metallic M, Ruby and the Pearl black and silver, both of BMW Individual. Exclusive wood finishes and comfortable seats for the driver and the passenger to complete the wide range of options.

BMW X5 M Sport

With the launch dell'X5 in 1999, the German House has launched an innovative vehicle segment called SAV (Sports Activity Vehicle). The year 2003 saw the introduction of more compact and agile BMW X3. Since their launch, sales of the SAV models have made a major contribution to the continued growth of the BMW Group.

Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4

The new benchmark in the Supersport cars has a new code name: Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4. New Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4, with completely new engine, the wheel drive and new permanent suspensions are the basis of superior performance compared to the previous model and an increased dynamism.

Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4

The innovative design of the new Gallardo contributes to the special aerodynamic lines of cars Lamborghini: The combination of elegance and power is redefined in ways not known before.

2008 Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4


The Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 collects the inheritance model of Lamborghini's most successful of all time. As of 2003 approximately 7100 Gallardo left the factory in Sant Agata Bolognese.

Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4



The powerful soul of Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 is the new engine V10 5.2 direct injection stratified, capable of providing a power of 560 hp (412 kW) at 8000 rpm. The addition of 40 hp compared to the previous model and the reduction in weight of 20 kg improve the weight / power share reaching 2.5 kg / hp, thus increasing the performance: the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 reaches 0-100 km / h in 3.7 seconds and also the 200 km / h in 11.8 seconds, the maximum speed is 325 km / h.

Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4



The new engine also excited for its efficiency: despite the clear increase in performance, it was possible to reduce consumption and emissions of CO2 well, 18%.

2008 Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4



Engineers Directorate of Research and Development Lamborghini have also improved traction, handling and stability at high speeds. The magazine wheel drive, new suspension, improved aerodynamics, lightweight equipment and optimization of friction contribute to the improvement of the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4. The new Gallardo is thus like a sports car designed to ensure daily use in city traffic and long distances, and an exciting job on track.

2008 Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4



In keeping with the DNA Lamborghini, based on power lines in terms of accurate and clean surfaces, the Centro Stile developed the design of the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 through solutions essential and well defined.

Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4

The evolution of form follows function consistently needs: the new front Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 to ensure a low attitude and contributes at the same time, increase aerodynamic efficiency. The air inlets, of wider increase air flow to the radiator, adapted to the increased engine performance. The spoiler on the bumper improves the aerodynamic balance at high speeds.


The new lights are below the bi-xenon headlamps, daylight made 15 LEDs arranged in the shape of a Y. The same pattern is reflected in the optical rear: The rear lights and brake lights inspired by the Miura Concept, the Reventon and LP640 and reproduce the form Y three times for each side.

The new rear completely redefines the concept of "power and elegance": the headlights, the air vent grilles, bumpers and the speaker are arranged along surfaces thoroughly studied to giving the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 greater development in one with horizontal the road. The new panels next to the bonnet are smooth and underline the mighty structure and elongated lines of the new Gallardo.


The rear diffuser, in the form redesigned, ensures greater efficiency and, combined with flat bottom, contributes to excellent running stability at high speeds. In general the aerodynamic efficiency has been improved by 31% compared to the previous model. The Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 addresses the fast curves even more secure.




To the purist design combines the great care for detail design of Sant Agata Bolognese: the cap gasoline and oil made of aluminum and the rear-view camera, integrated in a small fin of the rear spoiler to activate , Or finely machined Grille inside the terminal of the exhaust are a witness.

Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4

The new Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 has an aluminum body in both light and rigid: the two-seater 4.34 meters long, 1.90 meters wide and 1.16 meters high weighs just 1410 kg, or 20 fewer than the previous model.




The structure is made using the technique of Space Frame. Mergers and extruded profiles are the backbone on which to integrate harmoniously plate’s welded aluminum. The body is so very slight, but at the same time very safe in the event of a collision, also guarantees a high torsional rigidity which contributes to a surprising handling.




Despite the limited height outside the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 welcomes its occupants in a spacious cabin. The sports seats are covered in fine leather or Alcantara and ensure a good containment. The position is extremely low, typical of sports cars. A bench behind the seats allows the housing part of the trunk and goes to supplement the 110 liters in volume of the front compartment.




The large center console is one element that contributes most to strengthen the concept of ergonomics in the interior. Inside is housed the Lamborghini Multimedia System and the automatic climate control dual-zone. Between these two units is positioned for molding a new design with classic and elegant lever switches. Seven instruments circular graphics renewed inform the driver about the condition of the engine, a multifunction display among speedometer and tachometer gives the pilot the most important information.

Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4

Already the Miura and other models of the'60s were marked for a quality finish that exceeded the standards of that time. Lamborghini has strengthened considerably this traditional expertise and today produces high quality cars. Even in the new Gallardo can find Dear materials and refined.




For the internal upholstery there is a wide choice of colors and stitching, including a contrast. As an option for the Lamborghini Gallardo has provided equipment and enriched leather and Alcantara packages carbon fiber. In this case, elements such as the frame of the automatic air conditioning or the handle of the handbrake and the tunnel next to the exchange are made of carbon fiber.




In addition to customizing the program "individually" can satisfy any desire with respect to the interior finishes. The engine of the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4, mounted in rear longitudinal position, is completely new and represents the evolution of consistent propeller Lamborghini most successful of all time.

Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4

Remains unchanged only the number of cylinders, 10 cylinders those that offer a perfect and unique synthesis between driving pleasure and agility sports. The engine with a displacement of 5204 cm3 produces an output of 560 hp (412 kW) at 8000 rpm, which translates into a specific power equal to 107.6 hp / lt. The maximum torque output from the engine of 540 Nm at 6500 rpm. The shape of the torque curve guarantees consumption surprising power to any scheme. With an acceleration 0-100 km / h in 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 325 km / h, the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 is at the top extreme sports cars.




Despite the significant increase in performance, engineers Sant Agata managed to reduce consumption and emissions of CO2 for this car by about 18%. If you look at the performance, consumption of 13.7 liters per 100 km with the Gallardo e-gear is extremely low.




The application of this technology makes it necessary to separate cylinder pipes, the pipes are directly drawn into the base through the merger of the machining that "size" of silicon crystals which ensure the proper running surface for the pistons.




With an angle between the cylinders of 90 ° is the obvious choice for technicians to reduce as much as possible the center of gravity of the V10 power plant. Even with the lubrication cup dry contributes to the same goal and providing an optimum lubrication under all conditions of use including use car on the track.




The fuel is injected directly into the combustion chamber through an injector side. The Direct Injection layered guarantees a good performance as maximum engine power, reducing the sensitivity to detonation, this has allowed us to achieve an engine with a compression ratio of 12,5:1.




The driver of the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 can always rely on permanent wheel drive and 4-wheel drive with viscous coupling, the number "4" added the name of the model means exactly that. The wheel drive was introduced by Lamborghini back in 1993 with the Diablo VT for a valid reason.




The wheel drive Lamborghini is achieved through a viscous coupling center, which needs no adjustment electronics, and will share the basic engine torque between front and rear under normal 30:70 ratio, but adapts over a few milliseconds in case of changes in driving conditions or road.




It is not only a draw traction advantage of the permanent four-wheel drive, but also the dynamic cross for the best performance handling. In fact each wheel can only transfer a precise quantity of force on the road. As the driving force is spread over all four wheels via the Viscous Traction, remains a potential for higher road holding and directionality in the curve. These reservations guaranteed in every situation index are a perfectly designed sports car.




A great deal of power available from the engine, the gear shift is one of the sensations of driving the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 more exciting. There is a choice between manual transmission, where the change is made through the exchange short lever that moves within the grid for selecting 6-speed gearbox or the exchange implemented and electro-gear where you can change gears using the 2 Postal levers behind the steering wheel, this choice preferred by the vast majority of Lamborghini customers.




The change implemented and electro-gear has been completely revised and optimized in each component. The change was not only reduced weight but also as times changed was reduced. Up to 40% in "travel". The driver can choose between five driving programs and changed over the position Normal is available with the program SPORT times changed and shorter regimes changed higher, both Copy-modes manual or automatic.




The 5th mode is called "travel" and in addition to the speed of change with a characterization even more aggressive can reach boundary conditions above the maximum limit to the ESP intervention. The "Thrust Mode 'ensures maximum acceleration firm operating independently from the position of the engine throttle, the race clutch and the regime changed.

Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4

Despite the predecessor of the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 was one of the best cars worldwide in terms of handling, precision and driving stability on the new car thanks to new suspension has managed to increase even more driving pleasure, comfort and stability at high speeds.




The aluminum chassis is certainly an example of high tech without compromise derivation of close racing. The double-arm suspensions made of pressed aluminum resulted in the creation of a new motion while the springs and shock absorbers have been reviewed to ensure a further improvement in the motor vehicle.




The rear suspension is fitted with a new rod for the control of TOE that allows a further increase of vehicle control. New bearings are also made entirely of rubber and metal that, thanks to the combined structure, enhance the dynamics of the Lamborghini cars.




The steering rack with minimal help from steering to the driver moves the right feeling with the road. The system has a power steerings dedicated to the radiator fluid power steerings necessary in driving sports car. The steering ensures an accurate guide, fast and secure, allowing live a thrilling experience to control the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4.




The tires, 235/35 ZR 19 and 295/30 ZR 19 on the rear were developed specifically to Lamborghini. They are the Pirelli P Zero with a rolling resistance very low and therefore contribute to the reduction in consumption without reducing performance. Reached the threshold of 120 km / h the rear spoiler to activate automatically increases the load on the rear interacting with the speaker that serves as a rear air extractor under the chassis.




The new facility provides an exceptional braking power thanks to the brake calipers eight-piston Brembo going to act on discs front diameter of 365 mm brake calipers and four-piston disc involved the rear of 356 mm.




For the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4, Lamborghini offers a wide range of equipment. The standard equipment includes driver's airbag, passenger and side bags, automatic air conditioning with dual-zone radiation sensor, a sound system with an included USB connector, sports seats with electrically adjustable backrest, leather upholstery valuable in addition to this we have new bi-xenon headlamps with LEDs for the daytime running light. The new Apollo circles are characterized by design dual race.




Increase your comfort, a wide range of equipment including the optional navigation system, the module for TV reception, the plant speakerphone, bluetooth mobile phone, the burglar alarm and rear-view camera. Among the options you can also ask the adjustment of the front axle (lifting system) that allows the lifting of the body through the simple push of a button to facilitate the overcoming of obstacles. The offer is also complemented by polished circles Cordelia cross-breeds or by looking Callisto races with blacks "Y".




The engine bonnet with glass crystal can admire the powerful heart of the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 as in a showcase.

понедељак, 27. децембар 2010.

MINI Clubman Cooper S Streetworker from Schmidt Revolution


Schmidt Revolution, a German-based company that primarily specializes in alloy wheels but occasionally presents fully tuned projects, has unveiled its latest creation, a conceptual version of the MINI Clubman Cooper S called the "Streetworker". 



The focus point of the tune is of course the German firm's new Cirrus alloy wheel series, seen here in an 18-inch version. The funky looking rims can be ordered in any color ranging from the matte blue on this tune to any other tint including carbon black. On the MINI Clubman project car the alloy wheels are shod in 215/35R18 Continental rubber. 

Having solved the alloy wheel riddle, Schmidt Revolution went ahead and covered the MINI Clubman in a matte blue foil wrap and a contrasting matte black roof finish and trim detailing. 

The concept car's low-rider appearance is achieved by the Streetec air suspension, which allows the driver to lower the ride height by 60 mm or increase it by 40 mm over the stock model. 

The tune is finished off with an engine kit that lifts output to 200HP and 250Nm of peak torque.

Holy Bat Race! To the Batmobile, Carscoop!


Since the beginnings of hot-rodding and customization, the world of modifying cars has been a realm in which car fans could express themselves in an almost uncountable number of ways. It plays host to a broad spectrum of possibilities; ranging from minor appearance items like headlight eyelashes and spoilers to fully coach-built supercars like James Glickenhaus's Ferrari P4/5 and Michael Stoschek's recent tribute to Lancia's Stratos, it's a vast space filled with five-dollar accessories, million dollar showboats, and everything in between.
Residing in that enormous region of "in-between" is a small company called Fiberglass Freaks in Logansport, Indiana, but they're not your average car shop. In fact, you could say they're one-of-a-kind.
Owned and operated by Mark Racop (the "what guy") and Jeff Sandberg (the "how guy"), and staffed by six full-time and eight part-time employees, Fiberglass Freaks is much like Harley Davidson; they sell dreams. In the case of this unassuming small-town Indiana garage, however, they're giving people the opportunity to own a real 1966 Batmobile.
The story behind the official re-creators of the 1966 Batmobile begins with a young Mark watching George Barris's iconic Batmobile burst from the Batcave, flying out from behind its unassuming "Danger" sign to battle evil-doers. It was then, when he was just a few years old, that Mark decided to one day build himself a Batmobile. Finally getting a chance to see an original Batmobile in person in 1975, the seed that would one day become Fiberglass Freaks began to grow.
Fast forward to Mark's college years at Ball State, and we see a young dreamer - a film student at the time - who is the proud owner of an actual, factual Batmobile. Dubbed a "proving grounds", Mark's first Batmobile was built with the help of some friends on a 1974 Monte Carlo chassis when he was just 17. After teaching himself how to do some of the necessary work himself (and calling in experienced friends for the rest), Bat 1 was complete. The fiberglass, metal, and wood car went on to appear in three short Batman films, two filmed in high school and one in college that earned Mark a David Letterman Scholarship.
Once out of college Mark pursued a variety of jobs, waiting for the day when he would be able to pursue his lifelong dream of building Batmobiles for public consumption. Ever the perfectionist, Mark realized that the Monte Carlo's wheelbase was just too short for a true-to-form Batmobile, and that his initial proportions were a bit off. Sadly, the 1955 Lincoln Futura concept that underpinned the original Batmobile concept was long gone, meaning no more donor cars. It was time for the problem solving and creative thinking to begin.
In 2004, Mark's dream had become a much more realistic possibility with the appearance of "the Futura in the woods" on Ebay. The Futura wasn't actually a car, but a buck crafted by Marty Martino in honor of Lincoln's original 1955 Futura concept. Martino, who had hopes of building Futura concept replicas, originally created the buck with help from Ford after George Barris used the original concept car for the Batmobile. With this buck, the ability to clone the original Futura body shape became a possibility. Having acquired a slew of measurements and dimensions from a variety of museum visits (including a trip to meet Barris himself), the Futura buck had become the next piece of the puzzle.
Upon acquiring the buck for $2,125, Mark and his crew reassembled the pieces in just three days...followed by three months of restoration to bring the whole unit back to 100%. Once complete, fiberglass molds were created in order to start the arduous process of recreating a Batmobile from a Futura; due to the Monte Carlo's short wheelbase, the first Fiberglass Freaks Batmobile - AKA Bat 2 - would now ride on a fourth-generation Lincoln Continental chassis.
With the molds finished, a picture of the Barris Batmobile was projected over the body in order to get the proportions just right. After molding and modifying the Futura body with its new Bat-proportions, sourcing custom windshields from an airplane company in Ohio, and working for the next 4 months, Bat 2 was complete just in time to sell for $83,500 on the auction block. Two years later the same car sold for a staggering $216,000. Seeing such potential and getting ever-increasing publicity, Mark jumped at the opportunity to make some improvements in the design and assembly processes.
A year and a half ago, two important decisions were made: cast new molds in order to reduce the need for grafting and to allow for stronger (and fewer) parts, and improve or fine-tune "minor" details found throughout the car. Some of these improvements include re-tooled tread plates, milled bezels, an improved stereo system, and even a functional Bluetooth Batphone. Mark, "forever a student of the car", says one future goal is a reproduction of the Futura concept's conical, concave speedometer. It would take about a year of development, eventually replacing the Edsel unit currently used. With a bit of humor, Mark adds, "It's only gonna cost twenty-five grand."
Mark cheerfully goes on to say that business, regardless of the world's economic climate, has "exploded" over the past few years to the tune of 17 Batmobile replicas sold. If that's the case, who in the world is buying these $150,000 Batmobiles?
According to Mark, typical customers interested in Fiberglass Freaks' 1966 Batmobile replicas are between forty and sixty years old, well-off, and are buying the car to fulfill a childhood dream (and drive their kids to school, in one case). Don't assume that only Americans would be interested in this car either; Mark has built a car for a UK customer who rents it out for special events, and says he has even received a call from an interested party in Dubai.
If anyone out there was thinking of using the car as an advertising scheme, however, forget about it. Earlier this year, after being scoped out by a DC Comics spy (or "Uncle Glenn, the phantom buyer"), Fiberglass Freaks officially became licensed by DC to build the 1966 Batmobiles. This resulted in a few new regulations being thrown into the mix, hopefully for the better. According to DC's agreement, cars built under the DC license - those after the 17 ordered so far - can't be used to promote or endorse any businesses or projects.
In addition to controlling promotional use, DC wants to ensure that the quality of the car being sold and representing the Batman is top-notch. This means eliminating the lower two trim levels and only offering the fully-loaded model, as well as stopping sales of any kits.
However, if you're interested in purchasing a proper, licensed 1966 Batmobile replica, Mark says he's happy to take your order for a suitcase with $150,000 in it. Wait time is approximately eight months, and available engines include just about anything you can imagine. Mark says the standard mill is a 383 GM crate engine with a TH350 transmission, but big block 460s are always an option.
The model we had a chance to ride in was a customer car (meaning no wheel time, sadly) that was sent in for an update and refurbishment, another service that Fiberglass Freaks offers. This means that any improvements made after one's purchase will always be available, whether they own Bat 2 or Bat 20.
Naturally, owning a Batmobile isn't for everyone; however, should something as zany, attention-grabbing, and smile-inducing as these replicas be your cup of tea, the perfectionists at Fiberglass Freaks and DC Comics want potential buyers to rest assured knowing that Mark, Jeff, and the rest of the Logansport crew are with you every step of the way.












By Phil Alex


Prior Design’s Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe Black Desire


Based in Kamp-Lintfort, Germany, Prior Design presented its take on the latest generation Mercedes E-Class Coupe, called Black Desire. The tuning package is mostly about visual enhancements, however, upon request, the tuning firm also offers various engine conversions.

For the front of the car designers chose a new bumper with side vents and a prominent spoiler lip. The new parts feature sharper edges, a theme that’s continued with the side skirts. At the rear we can find a bumper extension with three fins, boot lip and roof spoiler, all available in carbon fiber as an option.

The black paintjob is complemented by metallic accents, found around the grille and custom Prior Design logo replacing the Mercedes star, on the side of the car and rear bumper. The same metal trim was used for the window surrounds.

Enormous, 20-inch Prior GT wheels, available in matte black, gloss black and silver, and a 4-tip stainless steel exhaust system round up the exterior changes.

Depending on the engine found under the bonnet, Prior offers numerous power upgrades, boosting peak output by up to 75 hp. Paired with a 35 mm lowering applied to the suspension, the performance package should make the Black Desire faster and better handling than the stock model.

According to the company, the Black Desire tuning package can also be fitted on the E-Class Convertible, while both Mercs can be ordered with a range of carbon fiber trim parts for the interior.


By Csaba Daradics

My Top 10 Cars of All-Time - U.S.A.


In the past I’ve covered my picks for the best cars of the 1980s and ‘90s. Now it’s time for my Top 10 cars of All-Time, whereby I pit country against country. Our six contenders are the U.S.A., Britain, Japan, Germany, Italy and France. Will you side with American muscle or French flair? Can Japanese perfection trump Italian passion? Or do you choose German engineering over British ingenuity? Whatever you choose, you’re in for one helluva ride. So, let’s count down my Top 10 Cars of All-Time.
Today’s contender is...the U.S.A.



10. Ford Model T
Ford’s Model T is widely considered to be the world’s first mass produced automobile, and the first to make cars popular among common, middle-class Americans. It was Henry Ford’s crowning achievement, and was as influential to automobile design and manufacture as the Hoover Dam was to engineering. It’s more than just a car: it’s an American icon.


9. Dodge Power Wagon
Another famous first, the Dodge Power Wagon is considered to be the granddaddy of the modern, 4WD pickup truck. Though the name would disappear at the end of 1980 the Power Wagon lives on in the form of Dodge’s venerable Ram. The Power Wagon isn’t all things to all people, but it is all things to a few. Powerful, rugged and affordable: everything a labourer could want in a car.


8. Ford Crown Victoria
You may be wondering what the Ford Crown Victoria is doing on this list. Here is a car that is not revolutionary, attractive or outstanding in any way. So why have I included it? Simple: roughl five million of these vehicles are (or were) in use with the nation’s police, taxi and rental companies. The Crown Vic is as ubiquitous and identifiably American as McDonald’s and baseball caps.


7. Cord 810
The Cord 810 is one of my favourite cars. It is a rolling piece of art; art deco in automotive form. Sleek, fast and looking like something off the cover of Popular Mechanics, the Cord made almost everything else at the time look like a relic from an earlier age. New York’s Museum of Modern Art even went so far as to name the Cord 810 as one of the 10 most significant cars of the 20th century. So there.


6. Ford GT40
In the 1960s, Henry Ford II was negotiating with Enzo Ferrari to buy the fame Italian automaker. When the deal fell through, the American decided to beat Old Man Ferrari at his own game and commissioned Lola Cars of England to build him a Ferrari beater. And build one they did. With four consecutive Le Mans wins and still holding the title of the only American car to win at the prestigious event, the GT40 is a defiant, one fingered salute at the European racing aristocracy. And that’s why we love it.


5. Cadillac Eldorado
Yes, the post-’78 Eldorado’s were rubbish and the 1986 model in particular makes me cry tears of blood. So what? From 1953 to 1978, five generations of Cadillac’s indefatigable Eldorado showed the world how America does luxury. Big, powerful and supremely comfortable, these were the it cars for celebrities and commoners alike. Elvis Presley had two, for crying out loud. This was American luxury at its very best.


4. Chevrolet Bel-Air
The 1957 Chevy Bel-Air is my favourite classic car. I’m constantly scouring the classified ads, seeing what’s out there and how much their owners are asking. This isn’t the only reason it’s on this list though. No, the Bel-Air was a revelation. Here was a car that was stylish, powerful and well-equipped, a luxury car with a sub-luxury price. I mean just look at this thing: it was gorgeous. And it was a popular seller for Chevrolet to boot. The Bel-Air is truly one of the greats.


3. Pontiac GTO
Pontiac’s iconic GTO set the benchmark for muscle cars for years to come. It had everything you would expect from such a car: rear wheel drive, a limited slip diff and any one of several big, honking V8s under the hood. Vin Diesel drove one in xXx, and it was the main antagonist in the classic Two Lane Blacktop. It even has a starring role in the recent teen comedy Sex Drive. Though perhaps not as well known or well loved as its Dodge Charger / Challenger brethren, the GTO is still one of the greats.


2. Ford Mustang
The Ford Mustang is American automotive royalty. It was the first of the pony cars, and forced the General to produce the equally as awesome Chevy Camaro. Available as either a V6 or a V8, with pricing comparable to the venerable Chevy Bel-Air of seven years earlier, the four-seat Mustang was a revelation. And the styling – don’t get me started on the styling. In a word: gorgeous, like Grace Kelly or the Chrysler Building. The Mustang is a true icon of the American automotive scene, trumped only by our number one.


1. Chevrolet Corvette
I defy anyone to name a more iconic American automobile. The Corvette is as American as apple pie. Big V8? Check. Rear wheel drive? Check. Gorgeous styling? Check, with a few forgivable fopars; nobody’s perfect, after all. The first generation was penned by Harley Earl – widely considered to be the U.S.’s most iconic automotive designer – and signed off on by GM’s top brass. Today, the Corvette remains Chevrolet’s halo model and a favourite of GM engineers and customers alike. It’s also, in my opinion, the best car America has produced.


So there you have it. Though remember, this is only my opinion. It’s hard picking just ten, and there are countless cars I was forced to exclude: Ford’s F-Series, Dodge’s Charger and Chevy’s Camaro to name a few. We want to hear what you think, so get commenting!


By Tristan Hankins