The 2010 Chevy Camaro - Back from the Dead

Yeah, you heard it. Chevy has finally unveiled the latest edition of its storied vehicle, which would make every pony car enthusiast anticipate with much excitement. After getting laid out of commission back in 02, it is coming out its hiatus, all geared up and ready to strut it wares.

For the past few months, Chevy has hinted that the comeback of the Camaro sport coupe would arrive in January of next year as a 2009 model. However, Chevrolet general manager Ed Peper clarified that it will go into production in February of next year and won’t be in showrooms until March 2009, as a 2010 model. The company confirmed these plans after some flamboyant concept previews at the 2006 and 2007 Detroit Auto Shows. With over two years of making so much noise, it is likely that this project will push through.

Peper indicated that it will initially make public at least two coupe models-V6 and V8, with a choice of a 400-plus-hp, 6.0-liter V-8 or a 300-plus-hp, 3.6-liter V-6, perhaps called RS and SS, respectively. Engine power for the base models will most likely come from one of GM's DOHC V6s, while the higher spec versions will get a version of the LS3 V8 currently found in the Corvette. So basically expect the same engine lineup as the Pontiac G8. The convertible will arrive at the end of 2009 but as a 2010 model as well.

Scheduled to share the stage with its All-American brothers – the Dodge Challenger and Ford Mustang, the Chevy Camaro offers a fully independent suspension, which is similar to that of a Dodge, compared with the Ford's live rear axle. This celebrated pony car will offer an option of 6-speed automatic or manual transmissions. The Camaro convertible, on the other hand, will take inherit some thunder from its 1969 model, making it look sleeker and more modern compared to the Mustang and the Challenger.





The interior component of the Camaro will be a mix of both modern and retro touches. The most evident relationship among the old and new will be the huge analog instruments behind the wheel and quad gauges in the center console, just like the 1969 model. The standard features will most probably include XM Satellite Radio, leather seats and remote keyless entry.

Now I’m sure most of you are already guessing about the price range of these goodies. Chevy is looking to keep base prices in the $20,000–$30,000 bracket, while the convertible model could be in the mid to upper $40,000 range. The range looks a bit more practical even if you don’t have a set of Rolexes, Berluti shoes and Dolce shirts in your closet. According to Peper, Chevy’s anticipating around 100,000 sales per year once the Convertible hits the market so you won’t have to worry about being left behind.

This resurgence was prompted by General Motors when the 2005 Mustang proved to be a success in the market. Although many people doubt if there’s a potential market for this one, just having the Camaro legacy continued is enough to put a big smile on the faces of Chevy aficionados. But hey, the way I see it, it sure looks like we have a hit.

Online Drag Racing – the Next Best Thing?

This is for the people who loves the thrill of the drag but couldn't afford to buy enhancement parts in their automobile. Then again, maybe even for those who weak at heart to actually try the real thing. Either way, this may prove to be the next best thing if you have any aspirations of driving that muscle car in the 300’s.

Online drag racing has been very popular in the circle of frustrated dragsters and online game addicts. The concept is basically the same as a video racing game. Think need for speed, though not as digitally creative, just a bit more interactive.

A few days ago, I was able to browse several websites that offered online drag racing games. The first thing I’ve noticed was the great following that these online websites have. There were around 50,000 people online at a couple of sites, meaning, 50,000 plus people who gets the kick of joining these online racing tourneys. I honestly can’t blame them. Most online drag racing sites are for free. You can also choose whatever car you like and customize it the way you want it. You can build and tune it to make it an exactly replica of your dream car that you’ve been salivating for ever since.



You can also join live tournaments and compete from people all over the world. Just like every video game, you can also work your way up. As you gain more points, you upgrade a level, participate in more difficult race tracks and compete with the more skilled online opponents.

All you have to do is register in the site, make sure your flash component is updated, download the game, work your imagination and the rest is history. Some of these online drag racing games include: Drag Racer 3, 2 Fast 2 Furious Game, Pimp my Ride, Goose Head Drag Race and a whole lot of other goodies.

Yes, this is just 3D. But hey, there are some benefits of settling for this online hullabaloo. You don’t have to actually spend huge bucks in styling and pimpin your ride. You don’t even have to own an Xbox or a Wii. Let’s be realistic, though, the thrill of participating in a real drag race wouldn’t even compare to this. Of course this isn’t the real thing, but for video game addicts, this can be as real as it can get.

The world of online drag racing may even spring some surprises in the near future and may end up getting bigger and more popular. As for now, if you don’t have the money, or maybe even the driving skills, you can get a good crash course in these online games. It doesn’t hurt to give it a try, after all, it’s free.

All Hail the New Nissan GT-R

Nissan has released THE super car, something which would certainly be the cause of wet dreams for car addicts the world over. The heir to the skyline legacy comes with a brand-spanking new look and engine. Although, technically it no longer carries the skyline badge, the 2009 Nissan GT-R is still every bit the super car the old skyline was, and more. Nissan has introduced the skyline brand way back in 1969, and has since then perfected the formula which is clearly evident in their newest coupe.

The new GT-R no longer carries the straight-6 RB26DETT engine of its predecessor, but carries the all new V6 VR38DETT. Trust me; this car lives up to the hype. It debuted back in 2007 in the Tokyo motor show and has been wowing countless fans since then. Those with deep-enough pockets can get the GT-R for the low, low base price of $66,675. Although some might considered the price tag a bit steep, but again this car can easily compete with higher-end models with more expensive price tags. However, since Nissan only plans to build around 1000 models every month, you will notice that not every Nissan showroom will have one, all the more reason to appreciate the car should you be lucky enough to land one.

It has been confirmed that Nissan is planning to introduce a lighter and more powerful GT-R called the GT-R V-Spec or possibly Spec V. Nissan has said that this model will be available in the United States in 2010 and will have 550 hp (410 kW) (an increase of 77 hp (57 kW)). It will also be 150 kg (330 lb) lighter and come with carbon ceramic brakes. With these performance figures Nissan hopes to break the Nürburgring lap record for a stock vehicle. A prototype has allegedly been observed by spectators running lap in the 7 minutes 25 seconds range.

The Nissan GT-R is powered by the VR38DETT engine, a 3.8 L DOHC V6. Two parallel Ishikawajima-Harima Heavy Industries (IHI) turbochargers provide forced induction. Production vehicles produce at least 480 PS (473 hp/353 kW) @ 6400 rpm and 588 N·m (434 ft·lbf) @ 3200-5200 rpm. According to independent dynanometer tests, the GT-R produces 416 hp (310 kW) to 475 hp (354 kW) and 414 to 457 ft·lbf (620 N·m) of torque at the wheels. The engine also meets California ULEV (Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle) standards. A curb weight of 1740 kg (3836 lb) or 1750 kg (3858 lb) with side curtain airbags is achieved using a jig welded steel chassis with aluminum used for the hood, trunk and doors. A rear mounted 6 speed dual clutch semi-automatic transmission is used in conjunction with the ATTESA E-TS system to provide power to all four wheels and along with Nissan's Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC-R) aids in handling and stability. Three shift modes can also be selected for various conditions. The drag coefficient is 0.27

Nissan claims a top speed of 310 km/h (193 mph) and various sources have achieved 0-97 km/h (0-60 mph) times of between 3.2 and 3.8 seconds. Edmunds.com achieved a standing 1/4-mile time of 11.6 s at 190 km/h (118 mph) using the GT-R's complex launch control system. Edmunds also speculated that faster times may be achievable on better road conditions than provided by the runway which they used for the test. Evo magazine achieved a 0-100-0 mph time of 13.9 seconds, one tenth of a second quicker than a Corvette Z06 tested under identical conditions. AutoCar achieved a 0-100 MPH time of 8.5 seconds. With a lap time of 7:29 on standard Japanese market tires, the standard-spec GT-R is currently one of the fastest production cars ever to lap the Nurburgring circuit.

Those who are looking to add tons of aftermarket kits will be disappointed to know that the car doesn’t really leave that much space to customize. It’s that damn gorgeous! Really you wouldn’t have the heart to taint its already sparkling body with more accessories. I just can’t wait for these to hit the streets. I might just challenge one to a race, although there is a creeping feeling in my gut telling me I shouldn’t.

Lowering Kits

I’ve recently been interested in lowering my car. Drag racers do this to decrease wind resistance. Although the overall effect to performance is not huge, it still adds and additional 10 miles per hour to your ride (I think?) PLUS it definitely gives your car that sporty look.

But this should be done with kits. Some low jacks just cut off the shocks. While achieving the task of lowering the car aesthetically, this gives tremendous damage to your suspension system. I’ve rode on this type of car before and it was one of the shakiest rides of my life. You had the feeling that the car was going to fall apart after each twist or turn.

Anyways, I’ve been browsing through shops. I even browsed through the internet. It’s surprising to find out that the prices on the internet are cheaper (well not all of them, but most). If you want performance parts, I suggest browsing through the following sites (1) Autopartswarehouse.com, this is the best site (2) Partstrain.com or (3) Partsbin.com

It won’t hurt to look. The sites are a good indicator of price range and fluctuation.

Seats to Go With Everything Else

Okay, if you’ve religiously followed all the tips listed so far then it’s relatively safe to say that your car should look and drive great by now. You should be getting nods of approval from onlookers. Feels great doesn’t it? Nothing is more pleasing to the owner than for his work to be appreciated. Of course you can’t please everyone but hey, if you’re happy with the outcome, then that’s all that really matters.

Now that we’ve got the outside covered, let’s take a closer look at some of the inside accessories. I want to introduce some seats that would make driving your new racer much more pleasing to drive. The seat is a part often overlooked by many. There just isn’t that much attention paid to it because of its unimposing nature. Just to let you know, there are seats out there that give more comfort and protection than the stock ones installed in your car. If you’re budget allows it, you might want to take a gander at some racing type seats that offers more support for your back and neck because driving at over the top speeds can place tremendous pressure on those parts so it really does pay to plan in advance.

Racers have been enjoying these types of seats for years and I think it’s time that we get some, don’t you? Not only do these seats give our necks and backs added support but they are also one of the most gorgeous accessories that you can install. Nothing screams performance better than a great set of racing seats. There are loads of brands to choose from like Recaro, Sparco, etc. Choose only from the top brands in order to get the most bang for your buck. Don’t o all cheap and choose knock-offs because you may end up spending more in the end. These cheapo seats may fail in extreme situations and may create unnecessary danger for you. Visit your local auto shop today or online sites like autopartswarehouse.com to find great seats like these. Some may think it is a little bit overkill but hey, you’re in this for the long run right? You have spent a great deal already on other parts, so why not for seats that offer great protection and adds loads of visual points to your interiors?

Autopartswarehouse.com presents Decals

You’ve got a cold air intake. Your wheel assembly is light weight, yet it maximizes control. You have the spoilers. Your exhaust is upgraded. Your mufflers are in tune. Everything is in check.

Wait, just a minute. Don’t just head straight to the streets or the racing circuit.


You have to add the finishing touches.

Decals – designs that give your car added aesthetics.

Decals are all about self-expression. Go large or go small. Go for intricately outlined or simply striking. It’s your choice, either way it adds that custom-value to the car. You can have your own logo crafted and sticker-ized (?) in many outlets.

For those on tighter constraints, try browsing through autopartswarehouse.com. Choices are slim, but the logos are pretty cool. Though the image sizes are smaller than I would like, for now this is a good foundation for drag racing enthusiasts.

Just remember, pick a logo that will match your paint finish! Go easy on the colors. Car and decals are like girls and clothes. Less is actually MORE! *kidding*