Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Cause and Effect

No comment necessary.


Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Top 5 Tyres for 2011

The end of 2011 is almost here and with it comes the knowledge that another year of advancement, improvements and firsts will be waiting for us in 2012.  Before looking ahead though I would like to review my top 5 car tyres of 2011, as a tribute to the tyre industry and what they’ve provided us over the last 12 months. So, in no particular order

1) Goodyear Eagle F1

The Goodyear Eagle F1 tyres were good when they were first released, so what does Goodyear do?  They made them even better. The Goodyear Eagle F1 tyres complement a vehicle’s predictive safety systems very well.  Goodyear used its revolutionary Active Cornergrip Technology, which evenly distributes pressure when a vehicle is cornering at high speeds, meaning more asphalt and tyre contact.  These UHP tyres grip so well on a wet road you wouldn’t even know it had been raining.
Key Features
  • ActiveBraking Technology: Each tread block contours under higher-load braking situations, therefore increasing contact patch size
  • Crossed-ply carcass structure for increased rigidity and drastically reduced weight
  • High-surface silica tread compound to reduce heat generation
  • FuelSaving Technology: Less material in the tyre and less heat generation, leading to lower rolling resistance and increased fuel economy

2) Continental ContiSportContact

The Continental ContiSportContact was described by a friend of mine as “sticky” when he 1st used them on his Porsche.  I think he pretty much covered what the Continental ContiSportContact was designed to do.  Wet or dry the Continental ContiSportContact will deliver all the time.  The only downside to these tyres is you won’t get a lot of mileage as they wear out quickly.
Key Features
  • Continental's bionic tread compound technology molded into an asymmetric design.
  • The tyre's internal structure includes twin steel belts reinforced by spirally wrapped nylon to stabilize the tread area promoting uniformity and high-speed durability.
  • My favourite feature.  You can still continue driving even when the tyre is flat at 50mph for up to 50 miles (80km)
3) Yokohama Advan Sport

The Yokohama Advan is the premium road tyre range used by many in the World Touring Car Championship.  If it’s good enough for the professionals then it’s good enough for me.  Manufacturers like Bentley, Porsche, and Audi also use the Yokohama Advan for its performance and comfort level.
Key Features
  • Uses nanotechnology to provide extreme grip in a wide temperature range.
  • The durable materials used to make the tyres which allows it to be used in excess of 300kmh


4) Michelin Pilot Sport

The Pilot Sport is a tyre developed for the drivers of exotic sports cars and comes standard on renowned models like the BMW M3, Porsche 911 and Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 and ultra high performance coupes and sedans. The Pilot Sport is designed to improve a vehicle’s capability in the wet, while providing progressive handling and exceptional feedback.
Key Features
  • Unique tread design in outer tread and inner tread for high level wet and dry performance.
  •  Ultra-reinforced sidewalls for really powerful cornering.

5) Dunlop SP Sport Maxx

The Dunlop SP Sport Maxx was recommended to me by my German friend (no he didn’t get commission).  After 19,000 miles of urban driving I can’t really complain much.  But I might try a different brand next time, because for some reason the price has gone up around 40% in the last 12 months...
Key Features
  • Uses Max Flange Shield that helps protect the tyres from accidents with the curb.
  • 5 Pitch Technology for reduce noise.
So that wraps up my top 5 tyres for 2011.  I am definitely looking forward to testing out more tyres and write about them.  Again these tyres are MY top 5 tyres for this year and everybody has a different opinion.  If you have a different opinion, or your tyres aren’t listed here feel free to leave a comment and share your experiences. 

Jason Harrison is an avid car enthusiast and full-time tyres salesman. When he’s not on the showroom floor Jason spends his time test driving some of the world’s fastest performance vehicles.

Saturday, September 03, 2011

Caring for your classic car

When it comes to storing your classic car there are several options.  Clearly the best is indoor storage, but this isn't an option for many of us.  

When a garage isn't available, a properly sized and secured tarp is a good alternative.  Be aware that inexpensive tarps will not stand up to the weather for very long.  

Monday, June 06, 2011

Top 5 Iconic British Cars

1. The Original Mini

The original mini has become synonymous with British pop-culture, as well as being one of the world's most iconic cars. The first mini was built by the British Motor Corporation and sold over 1,500,000 models after its launch in 1959. By the end of its production, 5.3 million Minis were sold, which makes it one of the most popular British cars ever made. Its compact shape, smooth curves and distinctive character continue to influence designers to this day.
BMW Takeover: In 2000, BMW took over the brand to produce a new version of the classic shape. (The remake became world famous after appearing in the hit film the Italian Job in 2003.)
British Icons: Mr Bean and Austin Powers both owned an original mini.
Mini Fact: The original design was developed as an answer to the fuel shortage during the 1950s.

2. Aston Martin DB5

The Aston Martin DB5 was the first James Bond car. The original design featured full reclining seats, electric windows and even a fire extinguisher. The first DB5 was released in 1963 and is still one of the most sought-after cars to come out of Britain.
James Bond Films: The DB5 has appeared in several James Bond films including Golden Eye and Thunderball. Most recently, it starred in the Daniel Craig Bond film Casino Royale. The revival further boosted its popularity, proving the DB5 has a timeless allure.

3. Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud II

The sleek Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud II was produced in 1959, as an improved version of the Silver Cloud and Silver Cloud I. It was the first Rolls Royce to feature a V8 engine and could reach impressive new speeds of 114 mph.
Fame & Celebrity: Rolls Royce continues to signify wealth and luxury. David Beckham, Alan Sugar and Mariah Carey have all bought from this classic brand

4. Jaguar E-Type

The Jaguar E-Type is an icon of the 60's, as well as being one of the most distinctive cars of the 20th century. Its sleek shape and sporty design has resulted in the E-Type being labelled one of the most beautiful cars ever made.
E-Type Fact: Assembled in Coventry, the E-Type is one of the only cars to be featured in the Museum of Modern Art in New York.

5. Austin-Healey Sprite

The Austin Healey Sprite is one of the most luxurious cars to emerge from 20th century Britain. The open sports design and retro curves evoke images of rally races and hot British summers. Created in 1958, the quirky charm of the Austin-Healey Sprite still commands a high price over fifty years later.

The Next Generation of Icons

We may not all be able to get hold of a vintage classic, but the British car continues to evolve. If you'd like to discover the iconic cars of the future, why not try car and vehicle leasing? There are hundreds of cars available, whether you fancy an Aston Martin inspired sports model, or a new shape BMW Mini. 

Wednesday, March 02, 2011

New addition to the fleet

It followed my home last night.  1994 CBR900RR.

Sunday, February 06, 2011

Chrysler 200 Super Bowl ad



<a href="http://msn.foxsports.com/video?vid=968f514d-048a-4eb1-8741-32fd03a912d1" target="_new" title="">Daimler Chrysler: Eminem Detroit</a>


I have to say, the Chrysler 200 ad is my favorite from the Super Bowl so far.  Feat:  Eminem.

Thursday, February 03, 2011

who needs overdrive?


So. As I was driving home last week in my '98 Z28, 5th and 6th gear just went away. I've already determined that it mest be the 5th-6th synchro assembly, and I've ordered one. Fortunately, I still get about 20 mpg driving to work in 4th gear.

I love the LS1.

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

What was he (she?) thinking?

So I took a good look at this car.  It has an actual 4 bbl carb, but it's mounted to a flat plate under the hood.  He even took the trouble to run a fuel line to the carb.  Also, there's a chrome plated diff cover attached (glued?  duct taped?) to the rear suspension.

I really don't understand people.

Ok, I saw the car again and took a picture of the differential cover.  Here it is.

Friday, November 12, 2010