Thursday, January 30, 2014

Smoking Tire's Latest; 2014 Porsche 911 Carrera S - Worth Every Penny

The Smoking Tire just released this video review of the 2014 Porsche 911 Carrera S on the street.  Just a week or so ago, they released a track drive of this car and if you haven't seen it yet, head on over to their YouTube channel and check it out.




Monday, January 27, 2014

Audi 2014 Big Game Commercial - Doberhuahua

Check out the latest from Audi, their new commercial for the super bowl.


Sad News from Michael Schumacher's Doctors Today

Autoblog.com and a few other websites are reporting some sad news this morning regarding Michale Schumacher.  According to reports from a medical conference, Schumacher's condition was a topic of discuss, particularly in regards to the duration of his medically inducted coma.  Anything beyond eight days is very dangerous and Michael has been in a coma since the end of December.
  We are all hopefully that Schumacher will be able to win this fight, but as the days pass by, unfortunately, that seems less and less likely.

Saturday, January 25, 2014

Friday, January 24, 2014

Comedians In Cars Getting Coffee: Todd Barry

The latest episode of Jerry Seinfeld's Comedians In Cars Getting Coffee features Todd Barry.  Check it out below.


Top Gear Season 21 Sneak Preview

We've known for a few weeks now that series 21 of Top Gear will premiere on the 2nd of February (Super Bowl Sunday) but haven't has a clear of a picture what's in store until now.  Check out all the photos on the topgear.com website.


Wednesday, January 22, 2014

Wilmington North Carolina Home Owner's Association DUI stop

  The Truth About Cars recently published an article about an individual in Wilmington North Carolina that
was stopped by a Home Owner's Association (HOA) Security Guard for speeding through the HOA's neighborhood.  The Security Guard (from a private company, not a sworn law enforcement officer) smelled alcohol and called for assistance from the University Police.  Because the Univesity Police didn't have jurisdiction off campus, they had to call the Wilmington Police.  The Police charged the driver with DUI and carrying a concealed weapon.
   The driver was able to appeal the case by arguing that the security guard had no proper training in DUI or speed enforcement.  The courts initially agreed but that decision has now been overturned.
  The bottom line of this is that HOA Security Guards are legally able to conduct traffic stops that a sworn police officer would not be able to conduct.  So according to the author over at TTAC, "we all can."  While I don't completely agree with that argument, this court ruling should give all North Carolina residents, particularly Wilmington, cause to second guess their HOA and security firms hired by them.  Could this same argument be used for one of these private companies to enter and search your residence? possibly!
  Check out the full article and discussion over at TTAC

Monday, January 20, 2014

Dezer Collection Miami

If you are in the Miami area or headed there to escape the snow and looking for something to do, the Dezer Collection may be just the thing.  I have not checked it out in person, but after reading the list of their vehicles,  I am ready to book a flight.  Some of the highlights of their collection include James Bond's Aston Martin from the 1964 "Goldfinger" movie.   Also featured is the Misubishi Eclipse from the Fast and Furious movies and the motorcycle from "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade".

   You can learn more about their collection and plan your trip from their website: http://www.dezercollection.com

Sunday, January 19, 2014

Top Gear: Series 21 Teaser Trailer - BBC Two




Just about two weeks until Season (Series 21) starts on BBC Two. 

Porsche Boxster and Cayman GTS

  The folks over at Autoblog.com have published a handful of photos of the GTS trimmed Boxster and Cayman.  As mentioned in their article, info about these varients were leaked a few months back along with the Macan and Targa.  Looks like the GTS Boxster and Cayman are the last of that leak to be officially unveiled.
   It will be interesting to see what other standard features Porsche puts in these two cars, but the one getting the most attention is the horsepower bump putting them at 340hp.  This bump puts them even closer to 911 performance territory.  Porsche did almost the same thing with the previous versions of the Boxster/Cayman when they released the Cayman R/Boxster Spyder. Both of these versions were quickly snatched up by P car mid engine fans and I expect this latest GTS to go similarly quick.
   The used Cayman Rs and Boxter Spyders have held value fairly well, with the biggest items determining their price to be how they were equipped.  While the PDK versions are faster the manual transmission models have been held in much higher regard by driving purists.  Only time will tell what the release of these two new models will have on the used R and Spyder market.

Check out the full story and all the photos over at AutoBlog.com

Saturday, January 18, 2014

Buying a Volkswagen from an old lady...

Buying a Volkswagen from an old lady...

   Just think about this next time your buying used and think your getting an incredible deal.



Tuesday, January 14, 2014

Gran Turismo 6 Update 1.03 Now Available

  A new update for Gran Turismo 6 has been released.  This update, 1.03, includes the all-new Toyota FT-1 Concept Coupe and a full interior for the BMW M4.   Also updated is the new seasonal events and probably the most useful feature, real time updates to the power points when modifying a vehicle.  I've found the lack of this to be especially annoying when trying to fine tune a vehicle.  One of the current seasonal events has a PP limit of 631 and would require a constant back and forth, up and down on the power level to get the PP just right.

Porsche 911 Targa unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show

The new Porsche 911 Targa 4
 Yesterday Porsche unveiled the new 911 Targa at the Detroit Motor Show.  Both new models are equipped
with all wheel drive and start at just a bit over $100,000.  Porsche is marketing this as the best of both worlds, the fun of a convertible with the security and solid feel of a hard top.  Check out the full press release from Porsche below.

Atlanta. At the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, Porsche is introducing two new models to the 911 range: the 911 Targa 4 and 911 Targa 4S. These models are the first to combine the classic Targa concept with cutting edge, innovative roof technology. Just like the legendary original 911 Targa of 1965, the new models feature the distinctive Targa roof bar, a movable front roof section, and a wraparound rear window. But unlike the classic 911 Targa, the roof segment can be opened and closed at the push of a button. The fully automatic roof system stows the Targa top behind the rear seats.
Both 911 Targa models exclusively come in AWD version, featuring the wider rear track and body, and the same Porsche Traction Management (PTM), found in all 911 all-wheel-drive models. It is an active all-wheel-drive system that helps to ensure the optimal distribution of drive power for optimum traction in most road scenarios, whether on long straights, through tight corners, or on surfaces with different friction coefficients. The combination of the wide body, the Targa bar, and the wraparound rear window results in an extremely sporty and low-slung profile.
The 911 Targa 4 is powered by a horizontally opposed 3.4-liter 6-cylinder engine with 350 hp. Equipped with the optional Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) and Sport Chrono package, the 911 Targa 4 accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds and is capable of a top track speed of 174 mph (175 mph with the manual transmission). The 911 Targa 4S delivers 400 hp from its 3.8-liter horizontally opposed 6-cylinder engine, and accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds when equipped with optional PDK and Sport Chrono package.  The 911 Targa 4S is capable of reaching a top track speed of 183 mph when equipped with a manual transmission and 182 mph with PDK.
The 911 Targa 4 will have an MSRP of $101,600 while the 911 Targa 4S model will have an MSRP of $116,200. Both cars also have a destination charge of $995.  Deliveries of the 911 Targa in the U.S. are scheduled to begin this summer.

About Porsche Cars North America
Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (PCNA), based in Atlanta, Ga. is the exclusive U.S. importer of Porsche sports cars, including the Macan and Cayenne SUVs and the Panamera sports sedan. Established in 1984, it is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Porsche AG, which is headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany, and employs approximately 220 people who provide parts, service, marketing and training for 189 dealers. They, in turn, work to provide Porsche customers with a best-in-class experience that is in keeping with the brand’s 63-year history and leadership in the advancement of vehicle performance, safety and efficiency.
At the core of this success is Porsche's proud racing heritage that boasts some 30,000 motorsport wins to date.
Note: Photos and video footage are available to accredited journalists on the Porsche Press Database at http://press.porsche.com/

Wilmington Cars and Coffee January edition

A few week's back I wrote about Wilmington Cars and Coffee  and their upcoming January meet at Schaffer BMW in Wilmington, North Carolina.  You can check out that post here.
  If you were not able to make it or just wondering what types of vehicles showed up, here are a few photos of some of the more unique vehicles.








There were tons of great cars out that day, despite the chilly weather.  The parking lot was fully of every type of make and model available.  No matter what you drive, this is the meet for you.  Check out the groups facebook page at Wilmington Cars and Coffee  for more info.

Monday, January 13, 2014

That's a Man's Corner: Isle of Man Tourist Trophy

I've never been the biggest fan of motorcycle racing but this video has changed my mind.  Just watching this makes me start checking out the next running and planning out flights and hotels.  These guys are riding on the edge and pushing themselves and their bikes to the absolute limits.  Just one wrong move, one lapse of concentration and it's all over and by all I mean not just the race.





Saturday, January 11, 2014

Porsche 911 Targa will debut at the North American International Auto Show

It's been a few years since Porsche unveiled their latest version of the 911 platform and they are still rolling out the completely new model line for it.  Just a short while ago we saw the new Turbo and now we are just a few days away from seeing the new Targa.  There have been more than a few renderings and spy photos floating around but why bother now, it's now only two days away from seeing it for real.
   Also on display in Detroit will be the all-new Cayenne Platinum Edition and the Cayenne Diesel Platinium Edition.  And of course, their brand new model line, the Macan S and Macan Turbo will be on display.  Porsche lists the base price for the Macan S as $49,900 putting in reach for quiet a few buyers.  I haven't had to chance to see or drive one yet, but all the reviews indicate they have kept the Porsche sports car DNA in and it drives like a great sports car.
   Read Porsche's press release here. and check out more about the North American International Auto Show here.

84th International Motor Show website updated

The website for the Geneva 84th International Motor Show website has been updated.  Check out the english version here.
   There should be more than a few new cars and concepts unveiling and we can't wait to see what this year's show will bring.

PS3: Gran Turismo 6 Photo Travel how to

Here's the latest from http://www.gran-turismo.com a guide to using the photo taking feature in the game.  I've used the photo taking briefly just to test it out but haven't fully explored it's capabilities yet.  It is a rainy weekend here in eastern North Carolina, so this might be the perfect opportunity.  Check out the full guide here.


Thursday, January 9, 2014

Fast Lane Daily



+Fast Lane Daily is a great show.  If you are not watching Derek D, you are missing out.  Check out their Fast Lane Daily and watch my favorite episode of theirs, the 1,000th episode Germany trip.
youtube channel here;


Wednesday, January 8, 2014

Top Gear: Polar Vortex survival part II

Top Gear: Polar Vortex survival part II


Car and Driver: Escort Max vs. Valentine One

Car and Driver just published their comparison test of the Escort Passport verses the Valentine One.  Check it out here: ESCORT PASSPORT MAX VS. VALENTINE ONE

  I've always been a fan of the Escort line of detectors and their latest version, the Passport Max, has received some really good reviews.  If I was currently in the market for a new radar detector, it would be on the top of the list.
   Along with a good radar detector, Escort also offers a phone app which connects directly with your detector to report any confirmed radar hits or police sightings.  All of your reports and other users reports are shown on a map with selectable warnings when you approach one of the reported items.  It's a great system, the only draw back is the issues with the software working on certain phones and the lack of other users in some areas.  The more users providing accurate reports, the better the system works.

Top Gear top tips: How to survive the Polar Vortex

Top Gear top tips: How to survive the Polar Vortex;  Top Gear's Polar special part 1 - Jeremy, James and Richard attempt to race from North Canada to the North Pole, a 450 mile journey.


Tuesday, January 7, 2014

PS3 Gran Turismo GT6: How to drift

Here's a handy guide to help with those drift challenges in GT6.  Once you get a few good drifts it's not too hard, but getting the feel of it can be challenging.  It definitely helps to have a steering wheel, pedals and a good chair to hook it all up too.


eGarage | Magnus Walker | Southern Charm and Hospitality

+Magnus Walker 's newest video was just released by eGarage.  It features his trip to North Carolina back in the middle of Oct 2013.  One of his stops was to the North Carolina Museum of Art for their temporary Porsche Exhibit.
  Check out the video below and then head over to his website for more:




Monday, January 6, 2014

Statement released today from Michael Schumacher's manager:

Statement released today from Michael Schumacher's manager:

"The clinical state of Michael Schumacher is considered as stable and is being continually monitored by the medical treatment administered to him.

"However, the medical team in charge emphasise that they continue to judge his condition critical.

"The patient's privacy requires that we do not give out details of his treatment and it is for this reason that we do not envisage any new press conferences, nor to send out any written press releases, in the near future."

Busting the speed kills myth

  Great video regarding artificially low speed limits as revenue generation and not for safety.  While focused on issues facing Canada, virtually all of the points raised are applicable to the US.  In the video, he states his two key points as: 1) The roads are safest when everyone is traveling at the same speed and in the same direction and paying attention 2) The majority of motorists drive at a speed they consider reasonable, and safe for road, traffic and environmental condition.  Posted limits which are set higher or lower than dictated by roadway and traffic conditions are ignored by the majority of motorists.  He even cites a study that shows raising speed limits actually lowered traffic accidents. 
   The lower speed limits create unsafe conditions by causing cars to pass on the right and drive too closely together.  Governments and insurance companies make money from low speed limits and have come to depend on that income.  I especially like his last statement "Speed still kills your pocketbook because the government ignored the best scientific advice the were given after spending piles of your tax money to get it.
"



   If you enjoy this video and agree with the message, I'd also recommend checking out the book "Traffic: Why We Drive the Way We Do (and What It Says About Us)"

  In the mean time, I'd recommend a good radar detector and possible laser jammers.

Sunday, January 5, 2014

Michael Schumacher Community (MSC) Facebok update

Just saw the below posted on Michael Schumacher Community's Facebook channel and it was too good not to share;

Mika Häkkinen has written a letter to Michael wishing his former rival a full recovery. The Finn, who is the same age as the German driver and who once suffered a life-threatening head injury during a training session, advises Michael to take his time to recover.

"Do me a favour: just this once don't try to beat the clock. You don't have to post your best time in this race. You have to take all the time you need," he said, signing off: "Take it easy, Mika."

Friday, January 3, 2014

CRKT ExitTool -Designed by Russ Kommer


CRKT ExitTool -Designed by Russ Kommer

  Hopefully you would never have a need to use this tool but if you were ever trapped in a vehicle, I'd hope you have something like this handy.  A few years ago Mythbusters tested out the ability to escape a sinking car and arrived at two options, either get out immediately before the water starts to rise past the doors or sit patiently until the water inside the car fills up past the doors equalizing the pressure. I think panic would set in for the majority of people and they not be able to sit calmly waiting for the water to rise high enough to open the door.  This tool could help you get out of the seat belt and break the glass  to escape a little sooner.  The tool has a small clip which allows it to be unobtrusively attached to the end of a seat belt.
In addition to the seat belt cutter and glass breaker, the tool has an LED flashlight.  The CRKT ExiTool is available directly through CRKT or on Amazon with an MSRP of $26.99.

Full Disclosure: This is just a cool tool we stumbled across while reading a car magazine and we have received no incentive or compensation for promoting this item.  It just looks like a good idea and we have purchased a few and will follow up if they are or are not as advertised.

Cars and Coffee Wilmington

Cars & Coffee Wilmington start almost two years ago as a way for those that appreciate all makes models and styles of cars. Most car groups or gatherings are focused on only one make or model ( Mustang, V dubs, etc) but C&C is different. At any event you'll see the latest and greatest, the oldies and goodies and everything in between. If you live anywhere near Wilmington, come out once a cruise the parking lot, you'll be hooked. C&C Wilmington meets at different locations on the first Saturday of every month, rain or shine.
    The first Cars & Coffee for 2014 is on 4 January, 2014, hope to see you there.  Check out the Facebook page for more info: Cars and Coffee Wilmington, NC

If you are not near the Cape Fear area, C&C's are in quite a few cities throughout the US, including Greenville, Raleigh and Fayetteville.

Thursday, January 2, 2014

Smoking Tire talks with Cannonball Run Colonel

Ok, not really sure where this will end up but it will be interesting to see where it goes.  Matt Farah called the number listed on his website and spoke with the guy.  It's an interesting video and Matt gets pretty frustruated with the guy by the end of the video, calling him stupid and crazy.  Check it out on The Smoking Tire's website and also on Jalopnik.

Another good reason to not tailgate

The folks over at http://www.carthrottle.com/ just posted this video as a good reminder not to tailgate.

  Now if we could just get the slow drivers and left lane loungers of of the way, we would all be doing a little better.

Get ready for the snow, few tips from Road and Track to stay safe.

Look's like most of the northeastern United States will be receive some snow and icy weather this week.
 Luckily us living south of the Mason Dixon line will only see some rain, these are good tips to stay safe out there.

8 Ways to Avoid a Winter Pileup


  And remember, just because you drive an SUV or pick-up truck, four wheel drive helps you drive, not stop.  Get the winter tires on and watch out for the other drivers.

Left Lane Loungers

Left Lane Loungers are one of the worst things about driving in the US.  Spend any time in Europe, especially Germany and the discipline of drivers is very apparent.  There is no sense of entitlement to the left lane, no sense of getting there faster than the other drivers and no sense of I'm in control of the road and doing the speed limit so I will just sit here in the left lane.
   The other major issue with American drivers is that they are completely unaware of other drivers.  They change lanes at the last moment, never use a turn signal, drive in tractor trailer's blind spots, and slam on their brakes at the last moment.
  Jalopnik recently published an info-graph showing which states have Left-Lane Passing Laws.


  Honestly, I find it disappointing that only 29 states have laws instructing drivers going slower than normal traffic should be in the right lane.  Every state should have laws about this.  The lack of laws on use of the left lane and passing on the right only encourages bad driving, dangerous situations, traffic jams, accidents and road rage.  We need to adopt German's stricter laws prohibiting passing on the right and directly traffic to use a left lane only when passing and returning to the right when completed.  Unfortunately, I think the driver-less automated cars will arrive before American drivers learn basic road etiquette. Until then we all must deal with the left lane loungers.

Wednesday, January 1, 2014

Fast Lane Daily's Top 10 of 2013

The folks over at  +Fast Lane Daily just released their top 10 cars of 2013.  Don't want to spoil it for you by giving away the top cars, but I will says that I agree with most of them and could have guess the number one car.

Check it out for yourself over at the +Fast Lane Daily you tube channel