Top Luxury Cars - The Ford F150 Raptor

Parts availability for the Ford F150 Raptor is going to be like an explosion. As soon as this SVT truck hits the streets there is going to be everybody and his brother looking for parts. I have been on the phone looking for parts manufacturing company's that is or is going to be manufacturing even the tiniest of Raptor parts. There are a few areas the Raptor that can be upgraded right off the bat. Parts like tires, wheels and brakes can be upgraded with parts available in the currant after market parts that should fit the Raptor now. We can add parts such as larger calipers, better wheels with bead locks, we can add bed covers, BAK is the supplying vendor for bed covers for the factory F150's have bed covers that will fit. there are lots of parts that can be used to personalize your new F150 Raptor. Though there not allot of parts manufactures working on performance parts up grades for the Raptor due to the cost of R&D and the decline in truck sales. But I would bet you that when this Raptor hits the market there will be a great deal of catching up to do.

I've talked to Rousch Performance engineers about this very thing, Rousch is holding back because Ford made some major changes in the Raptor engine management and there currant performance parts and goodies will not work for the Raptor so its a ground up situation for there parts as well. I'm sure they will attack this with all they have once the truck is available. There is one company that is in the position to supply a performance parts upgrade that will add approx. 150 hp to the Raptor right out of the box and we will be selling that Raptor system at about the same time the truck will be available. Raptor suspension is another area that has limited upgrades. As of yet there are no companies with lift kits on the drawing board reason being Ford has major changes to the suspension and they are waiting to get there hands on the new Raptor, Shocks are an area hard pressed to see up grades, talking to Ross the lead engineer at FOX racing there are no upgrades that are being looked at because Ross designed the system that ran in the BAJA and the Raptor already has the best, maybe later we will see something. He did say that FOX has a new Raptor Style shock upgrade for the standard F150's that will up grade the F150's to a Raptor style ride, we will have that soon.

Another area that we have looked at for upgrade is the cast lower front control arms, we have a major player in upscale buggy parts manufacturing that says they can produce billet lower control arms, we will continue to work on that and keep you advised.

www.F150mania.com

Being a Ford Truck owner and lover since my first days of driving from early 1960's I have at times had problems locating and purchasing some ford truck parts, you always have to wade through dozens of sites looking for that one item that will solve your problem or dress up your truck, takes a lot of time and you don't always find what your looking for or it's wrong and wont fit!

I'm using my years of Ford experience from building my own and others trucks and cars to help you build your dream truck. with over 40 years of building engines, transmissions and just about anything else that can be done to these great trucks to provide my customers with a place that they can purchase parts from with the confidence and trust you would expect from a fellow F150 nut! stop by and check us out we want to be your parts source for your dream truck.

Thanks, Dean B.

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Top Luxury Cars - The 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid Road Test

There's a common misconception that U.S. automakers are behind some imports in technology and fuel efficiency. That may have been true some years ago, but it could not be further from the truth today. Both Ford and GM have become quality and fuel economy leaders in the last few years, especially from the highly competitive mid-size segment up. Chrysler still trails in both but is working hard and fast to catch up. Don't believe us? Check the numbers.

The EPA estimates for the ultra-fine new Fusion and Milan Hybrids are an impressive 41 mpg city and 36 highway, which beats Toyota's '09 mid-size Camry Hybrid by eight and two mpg, respectively. They are, Ford says, the most fuel-efficient midsized sedans in America.

The conventional Fusion and Milan, nicely restyled and much improved for 2010, offer the mid-size segment's best gasoline four-cylinder fuel economy, more powerful available V-6s, class-exclusive technologies, including blind spot detection and warning with cross traffic alert and Ford SYNC, and more total passenger and luggage capacity than the Camry. The Fusion's new look is more upscale, sportier and aerodynamically slicker. But the most exciting news is this all-new Fusion Hybrid. Together with its Mercury Milan Hybrid counterpart, it joins the Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner (compact SUV) Hybrids to double both the size and volume of Ford Motor Co.'s hybrid lineup.

Among this next-generation system's key features are an ultra-efficient new 2.5-liter four-cylinder "Atkinson cycle" engine good for 155 hp and 136 lb.-ft. of torque mated to an electronically-controlled continuously variable transmission, or "e-CVT." Intake Variable Cam Timing (iVCT), enable seamless transitions from gas to electric and vice-versa, while both spark and cam timing are varied according to engine load to optimize efficiency and emissions. Enhanced electronic throttle control reduces airflow on shutdowns, which reduces fuel need on restarts, and a "wide-band lambda sensor" analyzes air-fuel ratios and adjusts the lean/rich mixture to keep the system in balance and minimize emissions.

The new 275-volt nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery is smaller, lighter and optimized to produce 20 percent more power. Cooled by cabin air, its improved chemistry allows it to run at higher temperatures, and an added variable voltage converter boosts voltage to the battery to operate the motor and generator more efficiently. A "smarter" climate control system with an electric air-conditioning compressor minimizes engine usage by running it only as needed for heating and cooling.

The brake system delivers full regenerative braking (when the drive motor becomes a generator), backed up by friction braking as needed, to capture nearly 94 percent of the energy normally lost through friction in braking and send it back to the battery. And, as we noticed during our drive, it delivers improved brake pedal feel compared to the previous system.

The hybrid system also allows the Fusion and Milan Hybrids to operate longer at higher speeds in electric mode than competitive systems. They can run up to 47 mph in pure electric mode, approximately double the speed of some competitors. "Because our hybrid can run at a much higher speed in electric mode, you can do so much more in city-driving situations," says Ford Hybrid Applications Manager Gil Portalatin. "Under the right conditions, you can drive in your neighborhood or in mall parking lots without using a drop of gasoline." With the 41 city and 36 hwy ratings, Fusion and Milan Hybrids can achieve a driving range of over 700 miles on a single tank of gas.

It uses two high-resolution, full-color liquid crystal display (LCD) screens flanking the speedometer that can be configured to show different levels of information. The approach is multi-layered: A tutorial mode helps drivers learn about its instruments and the system, while tech enthusiasts will enjoy detailed gauges that help them become more efficient. The system even "grows" vines and leaves on-screen to reward efficient driving.

Drivers can choose one of four data screens: The basic "Inform" screen displays fuel level and battery charge status; "Enlighten" adds an electric vehicle mode indicator and a tachometer; "Engage" adds engine output power and battery output power; and "Empower" adds power to wheels, EV power threshold and accessory power consumption. All levels can show instant fuel economy, fuel economy history, odometer, engine coolant temperature, transmission gear and trip data-fuel economy, time-elapsed fuel economy and miles to empty. There's even an engine coolant temperature indicator that turns green when the engine is warm enough to allow engine shut-off and restart for full EV operation.

autoMedia.com boasts more than 60,000 pages of original articles, including more than 2,100 features researched and written by leading automotive experts, covering car buying, maintenance and technology. For automotive advice you can trust, read more about the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid, including the latest pricing, rebates and incentives, photo galleries and more, along with details on all Ford Models.
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2010 Ford Fusion Sport AWD Car Gallery

2010 Ford Fusion Sport AWD Front View

2010 Ford Fusion Sport AWD Engine

2010 Ford Fusion Sport AWD Interior

2010 Ford Fusion Sport AWD Side View

2010 Ford Fusion Sport AWD Rear View

2011 Ford Mustang GT

Ford thought that by simply plunking a "5.0" badge on the flanks of its 2011 Mustang GT it was going to breathe new life into the less-and-less iconic muscle car — and it was right! The new V8 engine (all 302 cubic inches of it) pumps out a remarkable 412 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque while still returning an impressive 25 mpg on the highway. And it looks absolutely gorgeous nestled in the engine bay. Things get even better if you're a gearhead — you can now have real toys like Brembo brakes and sportier suspension.

2012 Ford Focus

The latest movement in Ford's effort to move European products stateside is the 2012 Focus. And like most sheet metal designed by Ford Europe, the Focus looks like it's going to sell by the caseload. The car will be available in both 4- and 5-door guise, and sources say that either one should return around 40 mpg highway. Power is provided by a 2.0-liter direct-injection 4-cylinder engine, which produces 155 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque and can be paired with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed dual-clutch gearbox.

Ford Mondeo the Car That Evolves?

When it comes to choosing the best possible Saloon Cars, most car magazines or other Automotive mediums will inevitably point you in the direction of one particular make and model; the Ford Mondeo. The Ford Mondeo has been a consistent and popular seller since its release in 1993. Back then it was the replacement for the relatively popular Ford Sierra, which had been a good flagship model for Ford in the company car sector, but was beginning to lose steam. The Ford Mondeo was meant to reinvigorate the design and bring a more 'executive' edge to the manufacturer who were beginning to run out of ideas.

The Mondeo then began a 20+ year domination over the saloon car market, which is yet to dissipate thanks to Ford's constantly evolving design ethic. The current design falls into Ford's new 'Kinetic' design aesthetic, which is meant to represent the vehicle's movement even when it is standing stock still. This sounds a little bit 'clichéd' as far as design briefs go, but in practice it really works and looks rather striking.

In a rather crude experiment to see how the Ford Mondeo has evolved over time, I have spent the week comparing an original Mark 1 Mondeo to the new Mark 4 edition. Obviously first impressions are vastly differing; the Mk1 looks rather too much like the old Sierra for my liking, but is definitely a step in the right direction. In contrast, the MK4 looks like it was designed by Mercedes during a cloning of an SLK experiment gone wrong. In short, it looks fantastic.

The performance test confirms the new edition's clear dominance over the past incumbent. In a one lap time trial race of a 3.4 mile race track, there was a clear winner despite both cars having 2.0 Litre petrol engines. As if you hadn't guessed, the MK 4 won by a shamefully long 6.3 seconds.

So what we can agree on is that the Ford Mondeo's star is definitely still in its ascendency. Whether it will maintain its positive trajectory rather depends on Ford and the often fickle buying public.
Pete Ridgard is a writer and a car enthusiast. Here he discusses the continuing evolution of the Ford Mondeo.
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Lamborghini Gallardo Or Ford Focus?

Every single driver will obviously have differing categories and stipulations regarding what makes the perfect car. Some will be of the opinion that power, speed and performance are the mark of a truly great car and suggest that the Bugatti Veyron or something similar is the perfect car. Others will hold esteem in a more aesthetic nature and put forward cars such as the Bentley Continental and the Aston Martin Vanquish as the real purveyors of automotive perfection. I have always held the opinion that the truly great cars don't focus on one thing, but try to encapsulate the needs and desires of everyone into their designs and engineering. This is precisely why my favourite car is the brand new Ford Focus.

Now you may be laughing or deriding me for saying that I would rather own a Ford Focus than a Pagani Zonda or a Koenigsegg, but that simply isn't true. I would love to own one of the many supercars or hypercars that are available on the market and if you gave me £1 Million to spend on a car I wouldn't disappoint you. All I am trying to say that in a practical world the new Ford Focus is a lot less likely to frustrate you than a supercar. Let me explain.

First of all you have fuel efficiency to take into consideration. Ford have become synonymous with engineering which seems to sip very frugally at the fuel reserves and the Focus is no different. With economical driving disciplines in place it is possible to get supermini standard fuel economy from a Ford Focus. This leaves you with more money in your wallet and having to spend less time stood at the pumps, refilling every few hours.

Secondly the issue of practicality has to be addressed. Everybody has to do a weekly shop, or pick up comestible goods from town. In a Ford Focus this is a relatively painless task. Parking is very easy, boot space is magnificent and thanks to the Ford Focus' 'understated' beauty, it won't attract vandals to pull it to bits. Adversely, if you choose to do your food shopping in your new Ferrari 599, you are going to find parking excruciatingly difficult, discover you only have the luggage space to fit a small punnet of Satsumas and the vandals will tear your Ferrari badge and wing mirrors off before you can even say "hands off my car!"

I will admit, owning a supercar would be a dream come true, I have a very soft spot for the Lamborghini Gallardo myself, but in an increasingly practical world, it becomes almost impossible to think of an apt time to use one. With the cost of petrol, the congestion on the roads and the increasing number of uninsured drivers on the road, why would any drive for pleasure?

Take my advice and get the best practical car money can buy; the brand new Ford Focus. You will get great performance and fantastic economy, just don't expect 0-60 in under three and a half seconds.

Pete Ridgard has been a writer and a car enthusiast for many years. Here he discusses the competition between the Ford Focus and Supercars, with unexpected results.

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The Ford Capri

Not too many cars enjoy a forty-year run, but the Ford Capri is turning forty this year, and that's something to be celebrated. Sure, it's not manufactured anymore but that doesn't mean that it's not still very popular. People still have them, and they drive them a lot. There are clubs for the Capri, too, and several dealers are having parties and other events to celebrate the car. It was a muscle car, and it had an iconic place in car history, mostly in the seventies.

The sixties and the eighties enjoyed it, too, but it wasn't as big in those particular decades as it was during the seventies. That's really the place that it has in the history of the motor car - as a seventies muscle car that big, tough guys liked to drive really fast. It made them cool, apparently, and a lot of them have kept these cars, re-purchased one for a dash of nostalgia, and passed them down to their children. It's helped to keep the Capri popular, like some other cars that have also enjoyed long-term manufacturing runs and didn't die out even when the company stopped making them.

The idea that dealers are so interested in these cars is a great one, because it means that the people who enjoy them and who still appreciate them can see these cars officially celebrated at a dealership instead of only seeing them honoured in backyard and block parties where Capri owners get together to swap stories and talk about how they feel about their cars.

These are fun, too, and will no doubt take place, but they aren't the same as gathering at a dealership to formally recognize the Capri and the place that the car has created for itself in motoring history. The types of events that will be taking place will depend on the dealers, of course, because everyone has a different idea of what constitutes a party. Ford might also have specific criteria for its dealerships, but whatever is done it promises to be a good time for the dealerships and the people who love their Ford Capris.

This article was written by Tom Sangers on behalf of Foray Vans who offer the Ford Ranger.

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The 1987 Ford F-150

Motor vehicle defect attorneys will admit that the 1987 Ford F-150 poses serious fire dangers when involved in a car collision. In 1995, a 24-year-old landscape foreman was driving his 1987 Ford F-150 truck on Route 97 in Maryland. When another truck crossed the center line and collided with the truck, the F-150 burst into flames. The man was trapped inside and conscious for several minutes as bystanders tried to free him. He subsequently suffered third-degree burns over 65 percent of his body and lost his right arm and right leg. His medical bills totaled $1.4 million, and he expects his future medical expenses to be in the millions of dollars.

The foreman driving the F-150 truck filed suit against Ford, his auto product liability attorney alleging that design problems--specifically the lack of an anti-siphoning device--in the1987 F-150 pickup allowed gasoline to pour out of the tank after the car collision and fuel the fire. His product liability attorney further alleged that the F-150's seat belt was defective because it would not open after the impact, thus trapping the foremen in a burning vehicle.

In a post-crash vehicle fire, a critically important defect is gas tank siphoning. Sparks from the cars electrical components, metal scraping metal on metal scraping roadway can ignite the siphoned fuel. Most cars manufactured after the early 1980s have three fuel lines: supply, return, and vapor lines. Siphoning occurs most often in the return line or supply line. It can be prevented in many cases by a variety of simple, inexpensive safety valves that were available years before the 1987 F-150 truck was manufactured. Ford documents from as early as the 1970s discuss the various checks or shutoff valves that would remedy this potential hazard.

Ford's experts testified that the F-150's fire was fed by brake fluid, not gasoline, and that a check valve would not have prevented the foreman's personal injuries. Experts countered, claiming the fire was fed by 12 to 16 gallons of gasoline.

This is another example where an inexpensive part could have saved both plaintiff and defendant a lot of suffering and expense. In this case, a $1 part that was installed in other cars might have prevented gasoline from spilling out, horribly burning and permanently maiming a young man. It also could have saved Ford millions of dollars.

After a four-week trial, a Baltimore jury awarded the foreman over $26 million in damages. This included $15 million in non-economic damages, which was reduced by the Court to $500,000, the maximum apparently allowed under Maryland law. The award was one of the largest in Maryland's history. The foreman plans to use the money to continue therapy and obtain artificial limbs.

Ford insisted that the product defect allegations lacked merit and that the jury was swayed by overwhelming sympathy for injured victim and the personal injuries he sustained.

In choosing to leave out a $1 part that other vehicles had wisely incorporated, Ford jeopardized the safety of its customers. The foreman's action in taking Ford to court clearly shows how our justice system works to compensate those who have been needlessly injured. The jury's award is America's message to Ford that their failure to act was not acceptable. Hopefully, this lawsuit will help convince Ford to respond effectively to known safety defects to prevent further serious personal injuries.

We extend our sincerest sympathies to the injured foremen for all the pain and personal injuries he has suffered. We wish him well.

Since their founding in 1978, Bisnar Chase lawyers have represented over four thousand people in car, motorcycle, truck, pedestrian and other personal injury cases. The law firm has an "AV" rating, the highest level of professional excellence, by Martindale-Hubble. John Bisnar, who is the author of this article, and his partner Brian Chase each have a "10" Avvo rating, the highest possible. John was named a "Community Hero" by the United Way, while Brian was named a "Trial Lawyer of the Year" in 2004 and one of the 2007 Top 100 Trial Lawyers. More important than all their top ratings and awards are the testimonials their clients bestow on them. Aren't these the type of guys you want representing you? For more information on motor vehicle defect attorneys, visit the Bisnar Chase web site at http://www.bestattorney.com or call 1-800-561-4887.

Copyright 2009 Bisnar Chase LLP. All Rights Reserved

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2010 Ford Taurus

Ford is always looking to improve their car designs; any good car manufacturer does this. Each car in the Ford stable has a different look and appeal. The 2010 Taurus is the large sedan from Ford offering a more chiseled shape than its predecessor and has that European look. The front is more dynamic too, with its sleek headlamps, pronounced front fenders, three-bar grille, broad upper chrome bar, and sportier stance.

In addition to having a flashy exterior, what lies under the hood of the 2010 Taurus is also quite impressive. It has a new EcoBoost V-6 Duratec 3.5L engine with 263hp and 249 lb.-ft. of torque. It is front wheel drive but has an all wheel drive option and is said to be one of the more powerful sedans in its class without sacrificing fuel mileage. As for safety features, standards for the Taurus include: anti lock brakes, traction and stability control, automatic high beams, rain sensing wipers, collision warning system, adaptive cruise control, Blind Spot Information and Cross Traffic Alert systems, six airbags, rear and side aiming radar alert, and 911 assist enhancement.

Among other improved features in the 2010 Taurus, the interior has been enhanced and sophisticated. Inside, appealing finishes, high-tech frosting along with surrounding lighting, and outsized room for tall drivers. The Taurus is a large sedan that seems even larger after you open the doors, and it has great space in the back for six-foot passengers, as well as their knees. Another copious quality is the Taurus' large trunk due to the high profile of the rear fenders and the tall deck. Although the 2010 Taurus has many improvements to its earlier models, the biggest advancement is in the quality of the interior.

The 2010 Taurus goes on sale this summer. Visit Orange County Ford to view their inventory online. Also Best New Autos has review and info on new cars.

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About Kia Motors

The Kia motor company has the distinction of being South Korea's oldest car company. Kia did not start out as an automobile manufacturer at all. Kia actually began in 1944 as a manufacturer of steel tubing and bicycles. Originally called the Kyungsung Precision Industry it changed its name to Kia when it began producing motorized vehicles such as motorcycles, trucks and cars.

Today Kia Motors is a subsidiary of Hyundai KIA Automotive Grove and is South Korea's second largest automobile manufacturer. Its CEO is Chung Eui-sun and has its headquarters in Seoul, South Korea. Kia Motors also maintains a presence in the United States as Kia Motors America and on October 20, 2006 broke ground for its first United States assembly plant in West Point, Georgia. Kia Motors has enjoyed tremendous success on the European market and is currently the fast growing car company in the United Kingdom.

The name Kia was derived from the Sino-Korean word ki, which means to come out, and the word a which means Asia. Translated it means to arise or come out of Asia or rising out of Asia.

Starting in 1986 Kia entered a partnership with Ford to produce several Mazda based vehicles for sale in South Korea and to be exported into other countries.

Kia officially arrived in the United States in 1992 however; it would be 1994 before the first Kia's would be sold in the United States. The first ones were available at four dealerships in Portland, Oregon. The first Kia models to be sold on the United States were the Sephia to be followed shortly by the Sportage.

Kia suffered tremendous loses in 1997 as a part of the financial meltdown experienced by Asia during that time. The company was forced to file bankruptcy and was acquired by Hyundai Motor Company. Because Ford had owned a portion of Kia since 1986, it also tried to acquire the company however, Hyundai was able to outbid Ford and Ford lost all but it's previously owned interest in the company.

Today Kia Motors has reorganized and now offers vehicles through 640 dealerships throughout the United States. Kia has enjoyed a fair amount of success in the North American market and in 2008 recoded its 14th consecutive year of increased U.S. Market share.

Kia has enjoyed quite a bit of success in the European market as well. It began importing cars to Europe in 1991. The Pride would be the first model to be offered there and proved quite popular with buyers. Kia maintains a presence in Europe as well. The Kia Motors Europe group is the European sales and marketing division of KIA Motors Corporation. It is now located adjacent to the Messe in Frankfurt, Germany.

Kia Motors has been in the European market for just over 16 years. Kia has certainly come a long way since its first offering of just one model. Today, Kia has expanded through midsize and full size sedans to the larger SUV's. The Sportage, Kia's SUV has been popular across Europe since its launch and with the introduction of the Sedona, the cheapest full-size people carrier in the United Kingdom, it is difficult to image a slowdown for Kia anytime in the near future.

About the Author

Ronnie Tanner is a contributing writer at SW Engines. He writes about purchasing used Kia Engines as a cost effective alternative to costly car purchases.

The Ford Streetka

This week's article requires an area of expertise I'm not sure I possess - writing about a car for girls. Due to the fact that I've actually seen sun by March this year, I'm hoping for a long, hot summer and therefore a convertible seemed a good choice to concentrate on. Obviously as soon as you drop the roof of any car, you're instantly into the realms of being a hairdresser or female or both. So what car did I settle on reviewing? A used Ford Streetka.

That's right, you can't even buy a new Streetka anymore since Ford only made them between 2003 and 2006 but despite this short selling period, the company most definitely produced the most feminine of cars ever. If you don't believe me, let's start with a few facts. It was launched by Kylie Minogue, a special pink version was used to promote the Thunderbirds movie and a dress to match the car was made and sold at a charity auction. Even Elton John would find all this a bit camp.

I don't want to come across as a bloke trapped in the chauvinistic thinkings of a male from the 1950s but the simple fact is that the vast majority of women really don't obsess about cars like men. Ford knew that by launching a cute little convertible with Kylie's help, women would be attracted to the lifestyle choice and cute styling rather than the new 94bhp engine it contained.

A note on the styling then. First things first; I could never get away with driving one without being ridiculed by my mates, but I'll admit that the styling is very cool. Recently I've been reviewing a lot of saloons that have all been much the same in the looks department, but the Streetka is funky and sleek, whilst maintaining the Ka brand look.

The two distinctive wheel arches remain, but the back end is elongated to accommodate the roof, while the front end has been subtly tweaked with more angular headlights the key change. Six-spoke alloy wheels adorn the car to help enhance its sporting image, along with a very subtle boot spoiler that is not too dissimilar to an Audi TT's. Crucially, the car's styling doesn't suffer when the roof is up or down - something the majority of convertibles fail to achieve a healthy balance on. The far more expensive Porsche Boxster for example looks gorgeous with the top down, but pram-like when the rain is falling.

All this impressive styling perhaps shouldn't come as much of surprise when you realise that Ford commissioned Pininfarina to draw lots of lines on paper prior to building the car. Pininfarina of course are the Italian designers who most notably come up with the curves for Ferrari and thus you get a lot of style and prestige for your money.

As I alluded to earlier, the Streetka comes with an upgraded engine to the standard 1.3 litre Duratec found in the rest of the Ka range. The 1.6 litre is obviously more powerful, but at only 94bhp it's still not earth-shattering by any means - something a 0-60mph time of 12 seconds and a top speed of 108mph evidences.

Of course all this doesn't matter when you're driving at 30mph through the city with the top down. Unsurprisingly the Streetka is just as competent around town as the standard Ka. Ford say that the Streetka has 12.5% stiffer front springs and a wider track at both front and back compared to the hatchback to improve handling further. This of course will be of 0% interest to the demographic Ford aimed the Streetka at.

When it was launched, Ford said 80% of the buying public would be female, but I can honestly report that since 2003, I have seen exactly no men driving one. It's certainly not because of the price when they were new. A new Streetka would've set you back £12,495 for the base model and a maximum of £13,745 for the luxury version. Combine this price with the Pininfarina styling and driving experience and it's no wonder the Streetka found favour. Better still it undercut its main rival the Peugeot 206cc by up to £2000.

Of course it's used examples we need to consider now and £4000 will get you a low mileage example from 2003, with the last 2006 versions costing nearer £7000. Presumably all will have only had lady owners so you needn't worry about boy racers having had their mucky hands on them.

So there you have it. The Ford Streetka - suitable for women written about by a man.

Mark Creese is a writer and a car enthusiast. Here he writes about the Ford Streetka.

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History of Ford Torino

The Ford Torino was launched in 1968 as part of the Ford Fairlane family. Fairlane sales were falling and Ford decided that putting a new name on the same quality car would help sales. This decision proved to be correct with great sales for the Ford Torino and ultimately it would replace the Ford Fairlane with an updated brand of beauty, power and styling.

The production of the Ford Torino would run from 1968 through to 1976. The initial Torino was a larger vehicle than the Ford Fairlane in the previous year. The roofline for the fastback was a whole new concept for the Fairlane stable as well as the new two door hardtop.

Right from the start the Torino was built with plenty of power and comfort in mind. The V8 engines came as standard starting with the small block 302 up to the big block 390 and 428 Cobra Jet launched in 1969. Initially the 1968 Torino was available in the two door fastback, two or four door hardtop, station wagon and two door convertible.

The Torino GT was the upgraded Torino in 1968 with standard body decal stripe, styled steel wheels, wide oval sports tires and standard equipment v-8 engine. These were available with manual four speed gearbox.

The body styling saw a complete change for 1970 and 1971with a lower, wider and longer body. The Ford Torino in 1970 also saw the introduction of the 351 engines in the Torino as well as the 429 with 360 BHP.

The Ford Torino GT was also now available with a Hurst four speed manual gearbox, rear window sports slats, ribbon style tachometer, three spoke steering wheel, high back bucket seats and 15 inch magnum 500 chrome wheels. In addition the Ford Torino GT also now had the option of hideaway headlights and the side stripes were redesigned in multiple colors but only as an option.

Again in 1972 the Ford Torino was restyled with the front fenders with a more rounded profile. The rear bumper was much bigger and now housed the rear taillight units. The front grille was also redesigned and resembled the Cobra. The two door fastback now had a lower roofline whilst the roofline of the four door hardtop was now much rounder.

In 1975 the Ford Torino saw changes to the standard equipment package. The changes included power steering fitted as standard.

The 1976 model year saw no major changes to the Torino line-up in fact the biggest change was the discontinuation of the Gran Torino Sport. The optional extras included a power trunk release, automatic parking brake release and opera windows and landau roofs were now available as optional extras for all 2-door models.

The Ford Torino is perhaps best known for its appearance on the popular TV series Starsky & Hutch and more recently the Clint Eastwood film Gran Torino.

Author Andrew Whitehead - a self confessed petrol head has owned numerous classic cars from fully restored to basket cases! He now has a website to fuel his passion in all things auto and if you're looking to buy a Ford Torino please visit http://www.americanautobid.com/blog/

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Best New Ford Technology

Ford Motors is not only creating the most modern hybrid vehicles but they are also working on the best in safety features for those vehicles. There is a new array of "active" crash-avoidance technologies that will be introduced into this year by driving prototypes into large, car-shaped balloons to help customers avoid real accidents. Engineers at the Dearborn Development Center use these balloons to test the company's new adaptive cruise control and collision warning with brake support technology. The consumer is demanding that some technology be created that can help avoid sudden unexpected hazards due to cruise control failure or brake support failures. This is just a couple of the many new safety features that are being checked and corrected for the consumers.

Ford Motors plans on introducing the system on the 2010 Ford Taurus, available in the fall 2009, while Lincoln is announcing the new system will be offered on the 2010 MKS, adding to the Lincoln flagship sedan's long list of available technology. One of the many newer technologies is the parallel parking active park assist that makes it easier for the consumer to park without touching the steering wheel. Along with the adaptive cruise control and collision warning with brake support to warn drivers of possible hazards in front of them and assist them in reacting earlier Ford Motors believes this will improve sales for the newer vehicles. Ford Motors is using radar in order to monitor the area in front of the vehicle which should help to drastically reduce major accidents by the careful driver.

The newer safety features developed by the Ford Motors Technology division are things that other automakers will want to take a good look at and perhaps they too will install similar technologies in their vehicles. The idea is to save the consumer not only on gas mileage but to implement a vehicle that is not too expensive to repair. The high cost of repair bills is driving the profitability down for insurance companies but it is also putting a strong dent in the pocket of the consumer. No one wants high repair bills on a vehicle because it is poorly constructed and by implementing safety technology this will make the consumer much friendlier when it comes to buying the newer hybrids. The government takes a look at what "The Big Three" automakers are doing with the funds that they will be getting.

As the world grows, auto makers are going to become more advanced over it's lifetime. From safety features to make it safer for you to newer features in the car that make it more convenient for you and your family. It's amazing to look back on everything in the past and see how far car companies have come today. Just think of what's out there right now and think 10 or even 20 years down the road from now. No matter what kind of car you step into, you're going to find that you're going to be driving in a wonderful piece of technology.

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The 2002 Ford Explorer

The update that came about for the 2002 model year brought about the best Ford Explorer yet; the body style was left in the same mould as before, but with detail changes making the car more modern in appeal.

However, the difference came under the bonnet, where a new 210bhp 4.0 liter V6 was joined by a 4.6 liter V8. This engine, although smaller in capacity than the preceding 5.0 liter, gave almost 240bhp, thus propelling the Explorer to new levels of performance.

Furthermore, the Explorer saw the introduction, for the first time, of three row seating, meaning this already very versatile vehicle now had the capacity to take seven people in comfort. Trim levels were also revised, with the base now known as Sport Value, and the top of the range still called Limited. The Explorer continued its fine tradition for luxury and comfort in this guise, and offered enough variants to make it appealing across the board.

It is interesting to note that the market began to change around the time of this third generation Explorer; whereas the 2 door variety - the Sport - had been popular before, it was noted that sales of 2 door SUVs were falling notably. Ford took the decision to discontinue the Sport 2 door version at the end of the models lifetime, when the newer, current Explorer was introduced for 2005.

It was also the case that sales of SUVs began to fall overall; the Explorer still sold well, but not as spectacularly as previously, and this may have had an impact on the demise of the Sport. However, Ford went full steam ahead with the new model, and also with future concepts for the Explorer.

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The Ford Kuga

The general opinion amongst the green set is that 4X4s are vast, smelly, CO2 burping monstrosities that are single-handedly destroying our planet and everything we hold dear. Of course that opinion is slightly exaggerated, but it has to be said that SUVs, MPVs and all other permutations of the 4X4 aren't exactly doing Mother Nature many favours. What further confounds those against these vehicles is the manner in which they are used. Most 4X4s, though designed for rough terrain, barely see any action beyond the school run and maybe a trip to the supermarket at the weekends. This seems criminal after all the feats of engineering that have been invested into producing a prime, lean, off-roading machine. That is, until Ford unleashed the Kuga.

The Ford Kuga aims to alter these negative perceptions of the 4X4 by offering the consumer something very special indeed; ecologically sound motoring. Yes, you read that correctly, the Ford Kuga is the class leader in CO2 emissions with an almost sweet-smelling 169g/km. Add to this a combined fuel consumption of 44.1mpg and you've found yourself a large vehicle that has a conscience.

So with all this environmental consideration you would probably expect to sacrifice all the performance you would expect from a car of this size. Yet again the Ford Kuga has surprises up its sleeve. The 2.0-litre TDCi Duratorq engine has all the grunt you'll require when on rough terrain, but displays a kind of elegance when used in towns and cities. So whether you are tearing around in the dirt, or cruising to the shops, you'll find the Ford Kuga a complete joy to drive.

Interiors have always been a vehicle attribute that this manufacturer has done well and the Ford Kuga is no exception. Inside the spacious cabin you will find all the gadgets and gizmos that you would expect from Ford including Sat Nav, Bluetooth, rain sensing wipers, blue tinted glass, partial leather trim, cruise control, automatic headlights, rear view camera, dual electronic air temperature control, USB connectivity and DAB radio. With all these and the comfort of the ride, you will find the Ford Kuga a very pleasant place to be.

Where the Ford Kuga stands head and shoulders above the competition is in the looks department. Anyone with even a cursory aesthetically-charged sense in their body will be bowled over by the Kuga. It looks big, very big, but has been designed with all the grace and sophistication you would expect from a small hatchback. To put it bluntly, the fact it looks so elegant may put off some of the hardcore 4X4 owners, but it will definitely win over a whole new audience with its curvy and sporty body.

The main plus point about the Ford Kuga is that it seems to be ushering in a new age of ecological motoring and proving that to care about the environment doesn't necessarily have to be detrimental to performance. If you combine that with the fact that it is one of the best-looking new cars on the road and you can't help but feel that the Kuga will be a success. It should also open the floodgates for other manufacturers to all start thinking ecologically when designing their vehicles.

About the Author

Pete J Ridgard is a writer and a car enthusiast. He currently writes for the automotive industry. Here he discusses The New Ford Kuga

The1965 Ford Mustang

With the introduction of the Ford Mustang in the middle of 1964 there was a nation wide sensation. This was of course due to the nature of the car design however the manner in which the media was handled and the marketing blitz that took place before, during, and after the official launch. A huge turnout in positive newspaper reviews, numbering the thousands, and an appearance as the Official Pace Car of the 1964 Indianapolis 500 coupled with an attractive purchase price of around $2,300 launched the Mustang into the American automotive limelight.

1965 was the first full official year of production of the Mustang. In addition to the primary Coupe design several variations on this model were available on the 1965 Mustang. For example Ford introduced a Fastback model for the Mustang that year to augment the existing hardtop coupe and the convertible. Two famous variations on the Mustang appeared in 1965 as well. The famed Shelby Mustang first appeared at this time. A Shelby Mustang in 1956 was a Fastback model with no rear seat. The spare tire was located in the back in the area of the rear window and the gas tank flap had the Mustang icon on it. They also added some more power to the 289 engine getting it up to a 306. The second variation was the 1965 Mustang GT introduced in the second quarter of that year and at a cost an additional $165! The GT option was available on the coupe, convertible or fastback models and came with a few variations of its own. As for the power train there was a choice between a 225 horsepower or a 271 horsepower V-8 engine.

Another choice to be made was between a three or four speed manual transmission or an automatic transmission called the Cruise-O-Matic. All GT packages came with an upgraded instrument group, striping on the lower part of the body sides. Finished out with "GT" badges on the front fenders, large fog lights mounted inside the front grill and a dual exhaust the 1965 Mustang GT really stood out! While the Shelby and GT packages got a lot of attention during 1965 the coupe body style was what really sold. The Ford Motor Company had first anticipated sales of the 1965 Mustang to be some where around the 100,000 and let's just say they sold a few more than that!

The Mustang was produced to compete in the emerging muscle car segment at the time. While it's the main competition the 1960's were such cars as General Motors Camaro and Chryslers Barracuda the Ford Mustang is the only muscle car from that era that has seen a continuous production run. While this early Mustang earned wide acclaim and several recognitions perhaps the most memorable is the Tiffany Medal. Tiffany & Co. presented a medal each year for excellence in American design and the 1965 Mustang was the very first automobile ever to win this award. This Mustang remains a true favorite in the eyes of casual fans and collectors alike. With the emergence of many Mustang oriented car clubs, the growing population of Car Auctions on television and an overall increasing interest in classic cars the 1965 Mustang is sure to remain an American icon for generations to come.

Bill runs OldCarRaffle.com and HarleyDavidsonRaffles.com where he posts Charity vehicle raffles free of charge. Feel free to stop by and say hello!

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The Ford Shelby GT500 2009 Review

The Ford Shelby GT500 2009 ranging value to $43 to 47 thousand dollars. Ford Shelby GT500 2009 is 2 door, 4 passenger sports car. An option also for convertible spots car.

Ford Shelby GT500 2009 5.4 liter, 500 horsepower supercharged engine on the highway. Ford Shelby GT500 2009 has 6 speed manual transmission with overdrive standard.
The for color for Ford Shelby GT500 2009 is an option.