Car of the Day - 2004 Honda S2000 with Microchecked Paint

Today's car is a great little racer, the Honda S2000. This particular car looked faded because it had some poorly done bodywork and paint. The old paint was microchecking. This condition is also known as "lacquer checking." Microchecking means that the paint has started to fail and crack apart. It can be a serious condition for your car that leads to rusting and premature failure of the metal. Maaco-Fremont stripped the car down to bare metal, re-applied primer & repainted the entire vehicle using an economical but high quality enamel.

Stages of Microchecking or Lacquer Checking

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Customer Satisfaction Survey Results 2010 Quarter 3

Maaco-Fremont received a 94.0% or 'A' grade for its 2010-3rd Quarter Customer Satisfaction Score. Maaco contracts with CSi Complete, a national provider of customer satisfaction indexing, to survey our customers and provide us with this feedback. The past quarter's score is based on responses received from 296 Maaco-Fremont customers who had work done during the quarter.

BMW 520d: High Efficiency, High Luxury

Melbourne, Australia —BMW will launch a new 5 Series model in November, powered by a2.0-litre diesel engine. The small and highly economic all-alloy2.0-litre turbo diesel engine joins the throng of other diesel-poweredBeemers currently available in Australia spanning it's small car,medium car, and SUV ranges.

With the advent of the new model, BMW claims that it "clearly leads the premium diesel market in Australia".

Priced at under $80,000, it's also one of the cheapest 5 Series models in Australia. Pricing is as follows:

BMW 520d: $79,900

Equipped as standard with BMW's 6-speed automatic gearbox, the 520d makes the 5 Series "accessible to an even wider range of Australianluxury car buyers" says the German company.

Standard features on the BMW 520d are nothing short of comprehensive: high-gloss wood interior trim in Bamboo grain, Poplar brown or Poplarlight, Dakota leather upholstery, Control Display with 6.5-inch colourmonitor and Radio Navigation, Bluetooth preparation, in-dash CD player (CD changer in glove box), USB/Audiointerface, dual automatic climate control, automatic anti-dazzleinterior mirror, multi-function leather steering wheel, on-boardcomputer, and electric seats.

Safety systems are also A-grade, featuring 8 airbags as standard, along with driving aids such as ABS, Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), Dynamic Stability Control(DSC) with ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control Plus Traction). It also gets 16-inch alloy wheels.

Powered by a 4-cylinder diesel engine, the 520doutputs 125kW @ 4000rpm and 340Nm of torque @ 1750rpm. Thesmall 4-cylinder engine provides the 5 Series with impressivepulling power thanks to a variable-geometry turbocharger.

Equippedas standard with BMW's 6-speed automatic gearbox, the 520dis accelerates from zero to 100km/h in 8.6 seconds. It's also veryefficient, one of the most efficient in its class and even rivallingsome small cars in terms of fuel usage: a mere 6.1 litres/100km on thecombined cycle.

CO2 outputs are also low, with 162g/km made possible thanks to "the combination of advanced BMW enginemanagement and the standard exhaust system particle filter".

Now, BMW firmly stamps its mark on the luxury segment with the arrival in November of the new 520d turbo-diesel sedan.

More:Sports Automatic Transmission. BMW is now offering a new sports gearboxsystem on high end 5 Series models. Priced at $1,000, the optionalextra is available on the 530i, 530d and 550i, and adds a 6-speedautomatic transmission which, at the touch of a button, changes theshifting points of the gearbox and also alters throttle response forimproved acceleration.

The Sport automatic transmission option also includes a multi-function sport leather steering wheel, featuring paddle shifters.

BMW Bikes Wallpapers

BMW Bikes Wallpapers

Bmw Motor S1000RR Sport Bike

Bmw Motor S1000RR Sport Bike

Bmw Motor S1000RR Sport Bike

Bmw Motor S1000RR Sport Bike

Bmw Motor S1000RR Sport Bike

Bmw Motor S1000RR Sport Bike

BMW M3 GT2

BMW M3 GT2

BMW 650

BMW 650 Picture

Smart Car Corvette

Smart Car custom Corvette

Smart Car Ferrari

Smart Car custom Ferrari

Smart Car Porsche

Smart Car custom Porsche - Smart Car Lamborghini - Smart Car Audi A3 AWD

Smart Car Lamborghini

Smart Car custom Lamborghini

Smart Car Audi A3 AWD

Smart Car custom Audi A3 AWD

2010 Mercedes-Benz Sport Cars Biome Concept

2010 Mercedes-Benz Sport Cars Biome Concept

Born out of the 2010 LA Auto Show’s Los Angeles Design Challenge, in which automotive designers are given free range to envision the future of transportation, the Biome is meant to blend seamlessly into the planet’s ecosystem. That means all components of the 2010 Mercedes-Benz Sport Cars Biome Concept car are “grown” organically, and it emits pure oxygen and is fully compostable at the end of its service life.

2010 Mercedes-Benz Sport Cars Biome Concept

The basis for the Biome Concept is a vehicle that "grows in a completely organic environment from seeds sown in a nursery." Not only that, but it's powered by a combination of the sun and a chemical bond from an imaginary liquid dubbed BioNectar4534. It's all natural, all organic and all science fiction.

"As the inventor of the motor car, we wanted to illustrate the vision of the perfect vehicle of the future, which is created and functions in complete symbiosis with nature. The Mercedes-Benz BIOME is a natural technology hybrid, and forms part of our earth's ecosystem. It grows and thrives like the leaves on a tree" according to Hubert Lee, Head of the Mercedes-Benz Advanced Design Studios in Carlsbad.

2010 Mercedes-Benz Sport Cars Biome Concept

This year the competition had called for the creation of a vision of a safe and comfortable 2+2 compact car featuring good handling and a first-class design, and weighing only 1,000 lbs (around 454 kg/kerb weight).

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz Sport Cars Biome Concept symbiosis vehicle is made from an ultralight material called BioFibre and tips the scales at just 875.5 lbs (around 394 kg). This material is significantly lighter than metal or plastic, yet more robust than steel. BioFibre is grown from proprietary DNA in the Mercedes-Benz nursery, where it collects energy from the sun and stores it in a liquid chemical bond called BioNectar4534.

2010 Mercedes-Benz Sport Cars Biome Concept

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz Sport Cars Biome Concept is powered by BioNectar4534, which is stored in the BioFibre material of the chassis, interior, and wheels. In addition, Mercedes-Benz has developed a technology to equip trees with special receptors which can collect the excess solar energy and turn it into BioNectar4534. This creates a direct link with nature's energy sources and acts as an incentive to cover mobility energy requirements through more trees and at the same time maintain natural resources.

The Los Angeles Design Challenge is part of the Design Los Angeles conference, taking place from 17 to 18 November 2010 as part of the Los Angeles Auto Show.

2010 Mercedes-Benz Sport Cars Biome Concept

New Lancia Stratos

From our friends at Top Gear and Vimeo, here's video of Ferrari boss Luca di Montezemolo driving and then approving the prototype of the new Lancia Stratos. If you aren't familiar with the history of the Stratos, do a quick Google search. It is one of history's greatest racing cars. Enjoy. . .

Luca di Montezemolo testing the New Stratos from New Stratos on Vimeo.

2011 Honda Fit EV Concept electric car

The Fit EV is designed to meet the daily driving needs of the average metropolitan commuter and utilizes the same 5-passenger layout found in the popular Fit hatchback. When the Fit EV production model is introduced, it will be powered by a lithium-ion battery and coaxial electric motor.

The high-density motor, derived from the FCX Clarity fuel cell electric vehicle, delivers excellent efficiency and power while remaining quiet at high speeds. 
The Fit EV will have a top speed of 90 mph.

The Fit EV will achieve an estimated 100-mile driving range per charge using the US EPA LA4* city cycle (70 miles when applying EPA’s adjustment factor). Driving range can be maximized by use of an innovative 3-mode electric drive system, adapted from the 2011 Honda CR-Z sport hybrid. The system allows the driver to select between Econ, Normal, and Sport to instantly and seamlessly change the driving experience to maximize efficiency or improve acceleration. While in Econ mode, practical driving range can increase by as much as 17 percent, compared to driving in Normal mode, and up to 25 percent compared to driving in Sport mode. Acceleration improves significantly when in Sport mode, generating performance similar to a vehicle equipped with a 2.0-liter gasoline engine.

In addition to the 3-mode E-Drive system, the Fit EV will include several interactive coaching systems to assist the driver in maximizing battery range.

A special meter display advises the driver when to shut off air conditioning and other accessories to conserve battery power.

To help the driver deal with the electric vehicle ownership experience, the Fit EV will have a standard connectivity system that allows the driver to stay connected through a smartphone and personal computer, or the Honda-exclusive interactive remote, while away from the vehicle. The pocket-friendly, interactive remote provides connectivity to the vehicle without the need for an internet connection or mobile phone signal. Through the connectivity system, drivers will be able to remotely view the vehicle’s state of charge, initiate charging and activate the air conditioning, even while connected to the grid, to reduce the drain on the battery at start-up. The mobile application and website also offers the ability to set charging notifications and alerts to optimize utility rates, and provides 24-hour roadside assistance, along with a public charging station locator. The Fit EV will come equipped with a standard Honda Satellite Linked Navigation System™ that includes a public charging-station locator capability.

The Fit EV is designed to be easy and convenient to charge. Battery recharging can be accomplished in less than 12 hours when using a conventional 120-volt outlet, and less than six hours when using a 240-volt outlet.

The Fit EV Concept displayed at the Los Angeles Auto Show features an exclusive Deep Clear Blue Pearl exterior color and distinctive five-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels with blue inserts. The Concept has unique LED headlights, a chrome front fascia, aerodynamic bumper, clear LED taillights and EV decals. Inside, the Fit EV Concept is outfitted in an eco-friendly gray bio-fabric on the seating surfaces.

Displayed alongside the Fit EV Concept at the show is a prototype Honda charging stand. To begin charging, the driver swipes a card in front of the screen and then connects the charger to the vehicle. The Honda charging stand provides a glimpse at the future of an electric-charging infrastructure that is easy to use and intuitive for consumers.

2012 Ferrari 612 Scaglietti

The history of the 612 Scaglietti started in 2004 when Ferrari chose it as a successor for the smaller 456 M. It was designed as a 4 seater gran tourer with adequate space in the rear seats for adults. But, if we’re going to be honest, the 612 Scaglietti features the most out-dated design in all of the current Ferrari line-up.

Thankfully, Ferrariis coming to the rescue with a successor to the Scaglietti. This new model will be unveiled next March at the Geneva Motor Show with sales beginning in the summer of 2011. Prices are said to be in the 300,000 euro area.

Ferrari has already confirmed that the next 612 model will feature lots of modifications, including a gasoline-hybrid technology which is a system Ferrari developed from the KERS system it currently uses in Formula One race cars. This system was already previewed by the 599 GTB Fiorano HY-KERS concept unveiled earlier this year.

Exterior and Interior

While the prototypes caught testing all over the world looked almost identical to the current 612 Scaglietti, the next model will adopt a totally new look. It will combine design elements from both the 458 Italia and the Vettura Laboratorio HY-KERS. The sports car will get a strong front, curved hood, and wider wheelbase.

The Engine

 

The current 612 Scaglietti is powered by a 5,748 cc V12 engine that delivers 530 HP and 588 Nm of torque. But the next model will adopt a hybrid drive train that will combine a V12 front engine that delivers a total of 550 HP with a 100-HP electric motor at the rear. This new system will help improve fuel consumption by at least 35%.

We expect to see the same dual-clutch 7-speed F1 transmission as in the Vettura Laboratorio HY-KERS concept.

The Competition

The next Ferrari 612 Scaglietti takes on models like the Aston Martin DBS, which is also about to enter its second generation. The new Bentley Continental GT will also have a few reasons to fear the 612.

When Can I Get One?

The new Ferrari 612 Scaglietti will make its world debut in March 2011 at the Geneva Motor Show. Sales will begin in the summer of 2011; expect a price of around 300,000 euro, or $410,00 at the current exchange rates.

BMW 320i

According to the World Car Guide, BMW's 3-series vehicles are the benchmark to which compact executive vehicles are compared. Test-drive or own the BMW 320i, and you will see why.
To begin with, the looks of the BMW 320i combine modern aerodynamic features with the traditional, distinctive BMW grille, which blends harmoniously with the curvilinear lines of the 320i. From the side, view, the looks are both curvaceous and dynamic, hinting at speed and smooth handling - and they have a drag coefficient of 0.28 Cd.
And the BMW 320i has the zest and zoom promised by its looks. The 2-litre engine, with a quick shifting manual transmission, is capable of racing from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.0 seconds, and achieves this thanks to a maximum power of 115 kW at 6400 rpm and a maximum torque of 200 Nm at 3600 rpm. The BMW 320i has a vigorous top speed of 220 km/h (218 for the six speed automatic version), and is capable of pulling 695 kg (unbraked) if required. The fuel economy of the manual variant of the BMW 320i is very commendable, averaging 5.9 litres/100 km on the open road through independent reviews.  Around town, as one would expect, the BMW 320i consumes slightly more (11.3 litres/100 km), giving an average of 7.4 litres/100 km. The figures for the automatic BMW 320i are only very slightly higher, being 6.0 litres/100 km in the country and 11.4 litres/100 km in town, which average to 8.0 litres/100 km.
BMWs have always been well-made and reliable in a crash, and the 320i continues to uphold this worthy reputation. The standard DataDot technology is complemented by ABS, dynamic brake control, cornering brake control, automatic stability control plus traction and dynamic stability control, which all combine to make the BMW 320i safe and very stable. If you are unfortunate enough to have a crash (or if some stupid drip collides with you), the driver and front airbags will come into play (these airbags have an occupant detector function), as will the front side airbags, and the head airbag front and rear. All seats in the BMW 320i have been fitted with three-point seat belts, and the centre rear seat has a headrest, as do the other seats. Night driving is also made that little bit safer with a nice anti-dazzle mirror.
On the inside, the BMW 320i is tastefully decorated.  Depending on the variant, you will enjoy comfortable seating upholstered  in cloth trim for the BMW 320i and premium Dakota leather for the BMW 320i Executive, which can be offset by a range of trims, including natural poplar, burr walnut or brushed aluminium. A retractable front armrest gives an extra edge of driver comfort, especially when driving long-haul; this comfort is enhanced in the executive version of the BMW 320i, which has partial electric seat adjustment for the front seats. The automatic climate control, which comes complete with microfilter, helps you keep comfortably cool in all weathers. An in-dash CD/radio, a through-loading system with ski bag, an onboard computer and preparation for a Bluetooth mobile complete the standard offerings inside the entry-level BMW 320i.
As if the standard features weren't impressive enough, BMW offers a wide range of options for the 320i. Exterior options include metallic paint, fog lights (which already come as standard on the BMW 320i Executive), electric sunroof, adaptive bi-Xenon headlights and headlight washer system. On the inside, optional extras on offer range from electric lumbar support in the front passenger and driver seats to an 8.8" colour monitor and professional navigation system which includes TV and voice recognition.
What sort of driver would enjoy the BMW 320i?  Well, most drivers would enjoy the experience behind the wheel in either sedan or wagon guise and we certainly enjoyed our BMW 320i review. Certainly a small young family would be more than adequately transferred from A to B in the snug, well designed cabin. And, if extra space was required then the BMW 320i Touring model provides estate room.  The fine new BMW 320i is a very attractive proposition to any would-be buyer looking for the top of the class driving dynamics, and a state of the art driving experience - especially when the price tag starts at a little over fifty thousand dollars.
The current model series includes the:

• BMW 320i Sedan
• BMW 320i Touring

For any more information on the BMW 320i, or for that matter any other new car, contact one of our friendly consultants on 1300 303 181.  If you'd like some fleet discount pricing (yes even for private buyers!), we can submit vehicle quote requests out to our national network of BMW dealers and come back with pricing within 24 hours. Private Fleet - car buying made easy!

BMW 320i WTCC