Learning New BMW Models and their rising popularity in South Africa

Residents of Cape Town and its surrounding suburbs who are looking to buy a new used car can choose from the great rage of BMWs that can be found for sale over the internet. The German car manufacturer have, over recent years, produced a stunning range of models from sports cars and saloons to modern, chunky, yet sophisticated 4 x 4s.

A BMW is universally accepted as being one of the best cars in the world, and as such they are much sought after. The build quality is superb, and if well looked after and kept in good condition, they also hold their value better than most other used cars. It?s one of the main reasons that a used BMW in Cape Town is one of the most popular choices for people on the lookout for a quality second hand car.

Despite popular opinion amongst BMW enthusiasts, the letters BMW do not stand for Best Motorcar in the World. They stand for something much more plain and boring, namely Bayerische Motoren Werke, or in plain English - Bavarian Motor Works.

The German car manufacturer have been churning out great cars for several decades now, and as the once new models appear on the used BMW in Cape Town car listings, they are soon snapped up, none more so than the BMW3 series.

The BMS 3 series is probably the most popular used BMW in Cape Town. The fact that this series is now in its 6th generation says it all. Its looks alone speak volumes. Not only is it one of the most aerodynamically handsome cars of its class, it has actually become the bench mark that most drivers looking for a new second-hand vehicle, measure other used cars by.

But as well as being a good looking car, the series 3 is also reasonably economical, particularly the 320i which has proven to be the most sought after model. The average fuel consumption is a pleasing 6.1 liters per 100km. Later model 320is are also fitted with Eco Pro, a system which helps to maximize fuel economy. In automatic models, Eco Pro actually adjusts the gear selection, thereby optimizing fuel efficiency; whilst in manual gear models, Eco Pro regulates the engine?s idling speed. Eco Pro also controls the car?s interior climate control system, effecting even more control over fuel usage. It?s small wonder that the 3201 is the most sought after model of used BMW in Cape Town today.

BMWs are renowned for their inclusion of high technology componentry at the cutting edge, and later model 320is keep the faith by utilizing BMW?s iDrive system. iDrive facilitates dash mounted control of the majority of the cars integral functions. This includes start/stop technology, use of Bluetooth electronics, and access to the World Wide Web. The BMW 320i is right there in the mix when it comes down to being the best used BMW in Cape Town.

Author Bio:
My name is Tal and I write Info on various cars, along with this article referenced for BMW In Cape Town There is also much more available at the official Pick A Car website, along with reviews, and news.

How to keep ECU trouble free?

The ECU of your vehicle translates to the engine control unit. It is sometimes more commonly known to people as PCM, or in other words powertrain control module. It plays an important role because it is basically a 'car computer'. It has the job of controlling your vehicle's engine. In more specific terms it controls the input and the output to the system. It also manages the fuel economy and the emissions from the engine as well. It has several other features in addition to this but those mentioned are the main ones.

As you can see, the function of the ECU is pivotal. If the ECU of your vehicle damages then you will end up having to seek a repair and this can cost you a lot of money. It is important that you avoid this all together and maintain the quality of your engine control unit. There are some tips you should make note of in order to ensure that your ECU is kept completely trouble free. Read on to discover what these tips are.

The best way to look after your ECU is to determine what not to do. There are certain things individuals do to their car and these will damage the engine control unit as a result. However, if you are careful with your car and avoid doing the following damaging things, then your ECU will be entirely trouble free.

One occurrence that will damage the ECU is if there is too much voltage going into the computer unit. For that reason you should clearly not do anything that will result in high voltage occurring, such as using cheap jumper cables to jump start your vehicle these usually result in strong and erratic voltage.

Sometimes you can actually damage your ECU through voltage issues as a result of another issue with your vehicle. Don't underestimate how one element of your car can actually influence your ECU. Any electrical fault can end up resulting in damage to the unit.

If you think about it logically it is quite easy to see how voltage issues would destroy an ECU. After all, if you overheat any computer system it can frazzle. In the case of the engine control unit, too much voltage can be highly damaging to the EEPROM and the microcontroller specifically.

Aside from this there are several other ways you can ensure your ECU is trouble free. Make sure you are extremely careful regarding the parts you use for the fuel relays and the system. If you use the wrong part then you can result in a failure to either of the components and this can then affect the ECU as a result.

Aside from this, connecting the battery cables incorrectly can also be detrimental, so you should be mindful of this. If you connect the battery cables backwards then you actually completely reverse the polarity of the whole electrical system.

You now know what you should avoid doing if you want to keep your ECU healthy and trouble free. Don't say that you weren't warned!

Author Bio: RAV4 ECU repair is the one stop shop for all repairs and it even deals with ECU faults.

Benefits of choosing a car lease

Buying a car can be very expensive, which is why the opportunity of paying for your car in monthly payments should not be surmised. Just like there is a car for everyone, there is a car lease available to meet every budget.

While the majority of people will not have £15000 to pay upfront for their favourite car, a monthly payment of £150 for example makes buying this dream car much more achievable. Join millions of people in getting a lease for a car. You can now invest this capital amount on something else without the need to leave such a big dent in your pocket.

Luxury cars have now become an option, making leasing a car the better option. That Porsche has suddenly become affordable without breaking the bank.

Convinced? If you are thinking about car leasing it is vital that you understand how the lease will work. Ensure you choose the right deal for you and most importantly your circumstances.

So what is car leasing?

In simple terms leasing a car means entering an agreement with a leasing company which will provide the funds to the customer but not ownership of the car. The customer is able to treat the car like their own and it is their responsibility to maintain the car and ensure it is taxed and fully insured. But unlike other arrangements the owner will never take ownership of the car.

Therefore the lessor or the leasing company will remain as the legal owner and also will be documented as the registered keeper on all documents such as the log-book. Once the lease has come to an end the leasing company can choose to give the owner the option to continue leasing or transfer the car to another person looking for a leasing agreement.

Did you know there are many variations of the term lease and these include finance lease, contract hire or an operating lease, each with their own terms of reference? When signing up to a lease, ensure you fully read the terms and conditions and once again ensure the agreement meets your personal circumstances.

So where do you start in getting a cheap car lease to fully meet your needs and requirements?

This is where the fun part begins, find your car. This can be exciting as with a car lease you can often afford a more luxury car than if you were buying outright. The lease terms are usually for a duration of 2-3 years but this will be agreed with the lease company. Other terms will be agreed such as expected mileage. This will help determine the future value of the car taking into account depreciation.

Once you are happy you are free to start driving your dream car and pay regular payments for this privilege.

Once the agreement comes to an end the car will either be returned or you can choose to continue your lease term. Remember if the car is not returned according to the terms and conditions you may be asked to pay an excess to recover the value of the car.

Have fun shopping for your own Porsche style car!

Author Bio:
Vincent Hill is Marketing Executive at First Vehicle Leasing. First Vehicle Leasing provides best car leasing solutions to all over United Kingdom.

Scion FR-S

Producing two hundred power unit from a direct-injected a pair of.0-liter Boxer four-cylinder engine and mated to either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic, the FR-S is one in every of the best rear-wheel drive economy sports cars of uncomparable.

Starting at around $24,000, the performance to cost quantitative relation of the FR-S is unexampled not solely within the fashionable automotive market however within the historical automotive market moreover.

Developed by Subaru however got by Toyota, the FR-S additionally competes with a near-twin vehicle here within the states: the Subaru BRZ.

The FR-S is tiny, light, sensible trying, and cheap. With a well crafted however easy interior, the FR-S provides enough area for 2 adult passengers despite the fact that it's technically a four-seater and a few baggage within the trunk.

While two hundred power unit doesn't seem to be abundant lately in an exceedingly sports automobile, the FR-S is high-revving auto that's desperate to please. What it lacks in grunt it simply makes up for with its cornering capabilities. The FR-S comes from the plant with identical tires because the European Prius. This may build some scoff however it's truly a superb alternative. The tires offer enough grip to stay the FR-S planted to the road, however additionally the additional benefit of being low cost to interchange.

As for why we have a tendency to selected the FR-S over its brother the BRZ, we have a tendency to felt the altered suspension setup of the BRZ accessorial with its satellite navigation unit and exaggerated sticker value created the FR-S the apparent winner. The FR-S is stiffer, lighter, and cheaper than the BRZ, and as a corner taming economy sports automobile, it gets our nod.

2012 BMW 550i Sedan: Sport package including dynamic damper control

Base Price: $62,895

As-Tested Price: $73,095

Drivetrain: 4.4-liter turbocharged V8; RWD, eight-speed automatic

Output: 400 hp @ 5,500-6,400 rpm, 450 lb-ft @ 1,750-4,500 rpm

Curb Weight: 4,365 lb

Fuel Economy (EPA/AW): 18/16.2 mpg

Options: M sport package including dynamic damper control, 19-inch alloy double-spoke wheels, multi-contour seats, M steering wheel, aerodynamic kit, shadowline exterior trim, anthracite headliner ($3,800); driver assistance package including automatic high beams, lane departure warning, active blind spot detection, side and top view cameras, head-up display ($3,500); convenience package including power tailgate, comfort access keyless entry, soft-close automatic doors ($1,700); premium sound package including satellite radio and one-year subscription, premium hi-fi system ($950); BMW apps ($250)

New BMW 5-series at shopautoweek.com

I would describe the 2012 BMW 550i sedan, despite its size and 4,365-pound curb weight, as fleet of foot. The throttle tip in is sufficiently sensitive and before long you've run through five gears and are nearing triple-digit speeds without any drama. The 4.4-liter turbocharged V8 pushes all the way to redline before a butter-soft shift from the ZF eight-speed automatic transmission.

The 550i is quieter than you'd expect. The heavy doors and sound-deadening material keep out the wind and road noise, and unfortunately the engine as well. It is truly about effortless speed in the 550i, especially when the suspension is set to comfort.

The four drive settings change the engine map, transmission and suspension settings. Full sport turns the traction control off and really buttons things down for "spirited" driving, while comfort moves the 550i into Mercedes territory for smoothness and isolation. I kept the car in sport plus most of the night, but I had to stay vigilant, any random pothole could be a tire killer. We learned that expensive lesson with our long-term BMW 550i xDrive tester. It ate six or seven Goodyear runflat tires in one year.

I did enjoy the thick M Sport steering wheel that comes with the M Sport package. It costs $3,800 but includes the adjustable suspension, 19-inch wheels, anthracite headliner and multi-contour seats. As far as other options go, I would ditch the $3,500 Driver Assistance package, though I did appreciate the heads-up display. The Convenience package can go but the premium sound system should stay.

The audio functions work through the iDrive setup, which seems to improve every year. My only complaint is with the iPod functionality that seems extra convoluted. Tapping your way through the menus won't play a song, you have to find a track list and scroll down to initiate. I think some other systems work better in this regard, Hyundai being one of them.

Those in winter climate may want to look at the all-wheel-drive version of the BMW 550i, especially since it only costs $2,300 more than the rear-wheel-drive model. It won't produce the kind of tail-wagging, rubber-burning fun that enthusiasts love, but on the slick stuff it's like an Arctic Cat for the street.

The person looking to buy this car would probably be cross shopping the Mercedes-Benz E550 4Matic, which costs $60,400, or the supercharged Audi A6, which stickers for $50,400. The only problem is that the Audi doesn't offer a V8 or rear-wheel drive, and the Mercedes gives you the V8, but you have to take all-wheel drive with it. As it stands, if you want a mid-sized luxury sports sedan with a V8 and rear drive, it's going to be a BMW.

By JAKE LINGEMAN

2012 Cadillac CTS-V Coupe

2012 Cadillac CTS-V Coupe

Base Price: $65,390

As-Tested Price: $71,485

Drivetrain: 6.2-liter supercharged V8; RWD, six-speed manual

Output: 556 hp @ 6,100 rpm, 551 lb-ft @ 3,800 rpm

Curb Weight: 4,209 lb

Fuel Economy (EPA/AW): 16/15.4 mpg

Options: Heated and vented Recaro high performance seats, metal pedals ($3,400); black diamond tricoat exterior paint ($995); 19-inch satin graphite wheels ($800); midnight sapele wood trim package ($600); suede steering wheel and shifter ($300)

Buy a New Cadillac CTS at shopautoweek.com

The 2012 Cadillac CTS-V Coupe is world class and can compete with other 500-plus horsepower sport coupes out there especially when you look at the price. At $71k, this is a performance bargain.

The supercharged powertrain is a delight, with smooth linear power delivered locomotive-like. The engine just keeps pulling to redline, then bang, grabs another gear and gets delighted all over again. I had no trouble with heel/toe shifting my only complaint with the car is the clutch pedal was such that I was pushing the lever as much as the pedal. The angle is odd.

The six-speed manual has nice short throws and the Alcantara-topped shifter and steering wheel add to the performance bend of the car.

The Recaros have terrific side bolsters and are infinitely adjustable. They even have really nice lumbar support.

Overall, I would rank this car at the very top of GM cars I'd want in my garage, right along with a Chevrolet Corvette Z06. Few cars in the General's stable pack more of a performance punch along with some edgy styling. The car is an attention-grabber, both for its exterior looks, and from behind the wheel. The CTS-V delights in many ways.

By: ROGER HART

Bullet Proof New Honda Accord

FAST FACTS
Model: 2013 Accord Touring V6.
Exterior color: White Orchid.
Interior color: Ivory.
Engine: 3.5-liter, six cylinder.
Horsepower: 278.
Transmission: six-speed automatic.
Fuel economy: 34 mpg highway, 21 mpg city.
Dealer: Economy Honda.
Price (as tested): $34,220.

Most car companies worry about what a car looks like on the outside, hoping to lure buyers with love at first sight.

Honda, to its credit, cares more about your view of the world from the inside of its vehicles looking out. It's one of the many reasons why Accord owners are among the most brand-loyal in the world.

Big windows are among the many utilitarian virtues of the all-new 2013 Honda Accord sedan, which went on sale last week. (An Accord coupe will arrive next month.) Frankly, the new, airy Accord makes the cockpits of some of its competitors look like tank turrets.

If that's not enough, our test Accord, in top-of-the-line Touring trim, includes a slick lane-change camera in the right side-view mirror that allows you to merge right in freeway traffic without even turning your head to check the blind spot.

Now, that's a safety option you can use every day.

The first Accord hit the road in 1976, the year I graduated high school. Ever since, it has been the default family sedan for millions of people who wanted a buttoned-down, bullet-proof ride with a smidgen of sporttiness. (The Toyota Camry has filled the same niche for buyers who value a bit more comfort. Now Honda is on the trail of those buyers, too.)

By Mark Kennedy

2012 Acura MDX

NEWS GREG MIGLIORE: The 2012 Acura MDX is a classy SUV with respectable power and a bit of space inside. Using it for a commuter lap, I unfortunately didn't make full use of its potential, but I'll leave that to members of the staff with offspring of the two- and four-legged variety.

I was impressed with the six-cylinder engine. It didn't strike me until I merged a few lanes over and jabbed the throttle, producing a pleasing sound and decent acceleration as I trailed in the wake of a Chevy Camaro convertible. I played with the paddles a bit, too. They were fun, amusing for a good-sized crossover, but not exactly Formula One-inspired. They're just something to spice up the drive into work and summon the revs a bit more purposefully on the expressway.

The cabin of the MDX is impressive in appearance and execution. This sampler came in stately black inside, and the steering wheel and door panels were smart. The atmosphere was quiet and serene, with just a bit of wind and exterior noise getting in. The negative? I'm not a fan of the center stack, which has way too many buttons and is confusing. It's hard to get used to in a short period and not easy to operate at a glance. MIT-inspired controls are not my preference at expressway speeds.

ROAD TEST JONATHAN WONG: Even with a new MDX expected to appear sometime next year, the current model is still my favorite three-row SUV. With our 2008 MDX long-termer, we piled more than 30,000 miles onto it, it never missed a day of service because of mechanical issue and the cabin held up remarkably well.

I continue to believe that this V6 and six-speed automatic transmission combination is one of (if not the) smoothest drivetrain combination in the SUV class. When you light-foot it around town, it's quiet, with the transmission performing seamless shifts. And like Greg mentioned, it has a surprisingly nice exhaust note during wide-open throttle to unleash decent power for merging onto the expressway and passing slower traffic.

The magnetic suspension is cushy in comfort mode for a soft ride around town and more roll around corners, but tightens in sport mode. Of course, a high-riding 4,600-pound vehicle isn't going to take a corner like a sports car, but all things considered, it can round an expressway entrance ramp quite well. Steering has some weight tuned and responds well to inputs. Brakes feature good bite and slow things down without drama.

I suppose the best compliment you can give a large vehicle is that it drives smaller than it is. Maneuvering around parking lots is done with ease, and the backup camera is handy. I also think Acura's blind-spot warning displays are the best in the business, with the warning inside the cabin instead of outside on the mirror itself or on the side of the mirror housing like Audi's is.

Complaints about the MDX's button-laden center stack are expected, but I prefer buttons over having the majority of functions being controlled by an iDrive-like knob. It's kind of like your home entertainment remote control that has a billion buttons on it, but you eventually get used to it and pick up on how to control the cable box, DVR, DVD player, speaker system and TV. It's the same thing with the MDX's center stack you'll get acclimated to it and will be a pro at working through it before long.

The rest of the interior is nice, with quality materials, good-looking wood trim, soft leathers and one of the most comfortable front bucket seats you'll find in a luxury SUV.

As for complaints, I do have one. The navigation map in Acura vehicles is really outdated. While Audi has Google Maps images, Acura is still slogging along with the same beige background image that's in the Wong family's 2004 MDX. Kind of disappointing, but I'm sure updates are in the works--at least I hope they are.

2012 Acura MDX Advance with Entertainment Package
Base Price: $55,450
As-Tested Price: $55,450
Drivetrain: 3.7-liter V6; AWD, six-speed automatic
Output: 300 hp @ 6,300 rpm, 270 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm
Curb Weight: 4,627 lb
Fuel Economy (EPA/AW): 18/19.6 mpg
Options: None
For more information: Check out the 2012 Acura MDX Advance with Entertainment Package at shopautoweek.com

Ford donates Mustang Boss 302 for Cattle Baron's Ball

Ford Motor Co. will donate a customized 2013 Ford Mustang Boss 302 Laguna Seca to the Cattle Baron's Ball auction on Sept. 29 at Joe Louis Arena in Detroit. It has a one-of-a-kind candy red paint job made just for this car, for this event.

The Cattle Baron's Ball is a yearly event that benefits the American Cancer Society. In its 39-year history and its 10th year in Detroit the group has raised nearly $48 million for cancer research.

Ford's Jim Farley was instrumental in getting the Mustang to the event.

"Like many people, my family has been personally affected by the challenges of cancer, and I am proud to chair the Cattle Baron's Ball in Detroit," said Farley, Ford's group vice president for global marketing, sales and service. "As a fan of the powerful, historic Mustang, I am especially pleased to provide this American icon for auction."

The ball will have a Western theme, as always, and feature Texas cuisine, dancing, the auction and a special concert by country star Toby Keith. Previous musical guests have included Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson and Wynonna Judd.

By: Jake Lingeman

2012 Subaru Impreza WRX 5-Door

This 2012 Subaru Impreza WRX for the weekend, and I was surprised by how little I missed our long-term 2011 Impreza WRX STI version. This car provides almost all of the fun, without many of the drawbacks of the hard-core model.

The WRX is down 40 hp from its big brother, but in between 3,000 rpm and 5,000 rpm you'll hardly notice. It makes the same sounds as the STI and rips off the line with the same aplomb. Unfortunately, fuel mileage didn't seem to improve; my two fill ups averaged about 19 mpg.

I did like the feel of an old-school five-speed manual in the hatchback, instead of the six in our sedan. The cogs could be held for a bit longer, and there are no extra steps to get into reverse. Like the STI, the driver doesn't need to shift out of top gear to pass on the expressway. Also, the shifter felt robust in the hand. There wasn't a lot of flexing from any of the linkage parts.

The steering and suspension are both softer than the STI. I put a good amount of miles on the car over the weekend, and not having to dodge every road imperfection was a blessing. I didn't realize how stiff our long-term car actually was until I jumped in this one.

Ninety percent of the time, having a softer suspension and easier steering are a good thing. But those few times when you do want the razor sharpness of the STI you'll miss it. Luckily for me, spirited driving wasn't needed on Saturday or Sunday.

I still like the sedan body better than this hatch. I like the big wing on the four-door, something I wouldn't trade for the extra space of the hatch. I might be alone in that. I also love this gunmetal color much better than the WR blue.

So, the upgraded STI gets you more power, upgraded brakes and the driver-controlled center differential. If you're looking for a track car, that's the one to have. But if you want a car that's good everywhere, except when being pushed to 10/10ths, the WRX will do. And being $8,000 less expensive doesn't hurt, either.

This is a pure, fun-to-drive hatch with excellent dynamics, a nice engine and a middling interior. Enthusiasts will appreciate the five-speed, which is easy, simple and enjoyable to operate. Downshifting is fun, and launches as one works through the lower gears are energetic. The engine is responsive, and this manual allows the driver to wring the most out of this Subie for spirited driving.

I like the look of the hatch. It's tasteful, functional and something a lot of Americans could actually find useful in their everyday lives. The interior is below standard, however, with chintzy plastics all over the doors and dash. The easy-to-read and sporty dials and athletic, upright seats, however, are solid redeeming qualities. My issue is that this cabin makes a sporty-driving and -appearing car feel cheapy, which for this price comes close to sandbagging the value proposition.

Behind the wheel, however, this thing does make one want to drive, and drive fast. The steering is light but pleasing, the chassis is sporty enough, and the all-wheel drive and the well-mannered body make this hatch more than up for the tasks for daily driving mixed in with some verve.

2012 Subaru Impreza WRX 5-door
Base Price: $26,345
As-Tested Price: $26,841
Drivetrain: 2.5-liter turbocharged H4; AWD, five-speed manual
Output: 265 hp @ 6,000 rpm, 244 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
Curb Weight: 3,208 lb
Fuel Economy (EPA/AW): 21/20.2 mpg
Options: XM satellite radio kit ($427); all-weather floor mats ($69)
For more information: Check out the 2012 Subaru Impreza WRX 5-door at shopautoweek.com.

By: Jake Lingeman

Audi releases a further 250 RS3s

Audi has revealed that it is releasing a further 250 Audi RS3 Sportback quattro models into the UK market due to 'consistent demand'.

The new batch of cars will join the 500 units sold in the UK last year and will carry the same £39,930 price tag.

The Audi RS3 is powered by the marque's turbocharged, five-cylinder, 2.5-litre engine, which produces 335bhp and 332lb ft torque. The RS3 will sprint from 0-62mph in 4.6sec before hitting its 155mph limited top speed.

External features of the hot A3 comprise 19-inch alloys, flared carbonfibre arches and a prominent roof spoiler.

The RS3's closest rival is the BMW M135i, which goes on sale in October and costs from £29,995 (three-door) and £30,585 (five door). The BMW produces an RS3-rivalling 316bhp from its turbocharged in-line six-pot motor.

BMW claims that when mated to its 6-speed manual gearbox, the M135i will hit 62mph in 5.1sec or 4.9sec when fitted with its eight-speed auto 'box.

The Mercedes A45 AMG another of the Audi's rivals will be probably be priced from around £35,000 when it goes on UK sale in 2013. It delivers 330bhp from its turbocharged 2.0-litre engine.

By Alex Kersten

Dodge Charger 1966

This bargain priced 1966 double black Charger is a freshly restored big block, 4-speed street warrior that will get a ton of respect and appreciation anywhere you show it and provide endless entertainment behind the wheel!

The beneficiary of a frame off restoration that was completed just last year, this fully detailed 1966 Charger's refurbished panels and brand new all-business black paint are as crisp as a fall morning at the local drag strip. During the extensive restoration, correct Chrysler code B Black was laid down over an exceptionally straight body that includes new high quality quarter panels and front fenders. Once the deep basecoat/clearcoat paint was dry and buffed to a glossy mirror-like shine, the cars original and surprisingly straight stainless trim was buffed to an excellent shine and reinstalled in its rightful place. The result is one spectacular show and go piece that is so much fun to drive and show off, you'll almost feel guilty.

Best known for its clean and muscular second generation, the Charger isn't often associated with the luxury car level of trim that this first year '66 model has. And while Detroit as a whole was trending away from ,decked out' cars, the stainless on this Charger's clean black body gives it a powerful appearance that simply can't be matched by the modernist designs that would define the late 60s. Up front, a tough looking pot metal 'electric shaver' grille houses an old school Dodge Fratzog emblem and four fully rotating headlights above a showroom fresh front bumper. Behind that grille, new glass is bordered by excellent looking chrome side mirrors and straight stainless drip rails that completely outline the cars pillarless hardtop greenhouse. At the sides of the car, stainless trim traces increasingly prominent fender lines that run parallel to pristine rocker trim and straight stainless wheel trim. At the top of the sculpted rear fenders, familiar "Charger" scripts sit just behind the cars side windows, and on the front fenders chrome "383 4 barrel" emblems look right at home. At the back of the car, a second Fratzog emblem is centered above a body width six lamp taillight that features bold chrome "Charger" lettering and a second chrome bumper that incorporates vertical reverse lights.

Lift this Charger's black hood and you'll find a correct 383 cubic inch warranty block that was fully rebuilt during the cars restoration. At the top of the motor, a satin black air cleaner with a correct Mopar decal sends air into a Carter Competition Series carburetor that's fueled through stainless fuel lines. Below that carburetor, the big block engine wears a fresh coat of correct Chrysler turquoise and a new coil and distributor shoot fire to the cylinders through fresh Mopar wires. At the sides of the block, factory replacement exhaust manifolds send spent gases into a throaty dual exhaust system, and in front of the block there's a fresh 26 inch radiator with a factory clutch fan. The correct Chrysler code B Black engine bay is exceptionally clean and has been nicely detailed with new Mopar V-belts, correct hoses and clamps, a reproduction Mopar battery, and a fresh washer fluid container. This is definitely an engine compartment you'll want to show off every time you park the car, and if you want to make the car even more authentic, the original carburetor and distributor are included in the sale.

Behind that legendary Chrysler engine you'll find an A833 4-speed manual transmission that sends power to a familiar 8.75 inch rear end. Holding that super reliable drivetrain in place is a correct front torsion bar and rear leaf suspension that benefited from a slew of new parts and hardware during the restoration. At the corners of that suspension, correct four wheel drum brakes provide firm stopping, and at the front of that suspension, factory correct power steering helps make turning easier and more precise. Exhaust is handled by an aluminized true dual system that provides an aggressive tone, but isn't overbearing, there are fresh bushings all around, and new stainless fuel and brake lines run from both a new fuel tank and a new brake reservoir. As long as you're under there looking around, you'll notice that the floorpans were fully undercoated during the restoration and the suspension components were obviously stripped and repainted. And while the bottom of this Charger isn't dressed for concours appearance, it is nice enough that you'll certainly be pointing out to your friends how good it looks up on a lift. Oh, and don't forget to point out the cool set of 14 inch Hurst wheels that wear excellent 235/60 BF Goodrich T/A radials!

The best part of first generation Chargers is their spectacular cockpits; just look at that excellent full length console in this cars correct P4X interior! Not only does it appear to be ripped straight out of a Chrysler show car, it creates a super rare four bucket sedan layout that makes you instantly think of luxury cars. At the front of the console a continuous motion clock sits at the base of the cars 4-speed shifter and at the rear of the console a folding arm rest provides added cargo room. At the sides of the console, great looking light stitched seats wear reproduction covers in the front and original covers in the back. Below the console, new black carpet shows no sign of wear or usage, and above the seats, a fresh headliner sits holds light stitched sun visors. In front of the driver, electroluminescent gauges that were WAY ahead of their time include a standard tachometer and the correct wood rimmed steering wheel perfectly complements the cars silver trim. At the sides of the seats, new silver trimmed Charger exclusive door panels feature new chrome bits, correct "Charger" emblems and switches for the cars power windows. Behind the cockpit, the cars completely restored trunk features a collapsible divider for increased cargo space. This Chargers interior is fully restored and 100% complete; the owner is even throwing in an additional Chrysler AM radio just in case anything happens to the one mounted in this Chargers dash.

There is considerable documentation that goes along with this car. We have a copy of the current owners 1972 invoice from Stetler Auto Company; yes, he has owned the car for almost 40 years. We have a CD full of restoration photos and a stack of restoration receipts. We have a 1966 Charger brochure, original service manuals and paperwork for the transmission and wheels. And finally, we have a 1966 copy of Motor Trend magazine that features the Charger on its cover.

The black ones always go the quickest (naturally; who doesn't love a bad ass all black Charger?) and I don't expect this correct black on black '66 383 car will prove an exception to that rule; especially when you consider its incredible $40K price tag. That's the bargain of the century! I'm urging you not to become the next, "Sorry, it's sold," phone call we get because this super clean, big block 4-speed black on black Charger certainly won't last long. Call now!

More info:
5527 Lakeview Road, Charlotte, NC 28269
Phone: 704.596.5211 Fax: 704.596.5980

Ford Flex 2013

The Ford Flex, is, of course, the Taurus's wagony analogue, the glitzy, boxy companion to the D-segment sedan that the unlamented Freestyle never was to the Taurus's daddy, the Five Hundred. What this particular Flex is is the freshened-for-2013 version.

While the basics remain the same, Ford's updated the styling of its boxy seven-seater, offering a front-end treatment more avant garde than that of the previous car--or even that of the 2005 Fairlane concept which spawned the Flex. The blue oval grille badge is gone, replaced by extra-width "FLEX" lettering spanning the hood's leading edge.

Inside, Ford upgraded the materials and redesigned the dash, offering touch-sensitive buttons à la the Chevrolet Volt's center stack--though the look is decidedly 1970s Aston Martin Lagonda--minimal rather than the Volt's Starfleet hodgepodge. Furthermore, the new Flex ships with the updated version of the often-cursed MyFord Touch. Some 300,000 people are now using the infotainment system, and we presume that some of them are happy with it.

Under the skin, Ford upped the power of the available engines. The 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 now makes 288 hp and 254 lb-ft of torque, and the EcoBoost twin-turbo six pumps out 365 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. Mileage improves as well, up a tick to 18/25 mpg for the FWD naturally aspirated base model and 16/23 mpg for the AWD EcoBoost version. A six-speed slushbox is still the only available transmission.

We sampled an AWD Flex Limited EcoBoost. If you've driven the previous model, the new wagonoid will feel like a subtle yet substantial improvement. Ford added sound-deadening insulation, recalibrated the steering and imparted the handling with an aura of solidity that pairs well with the upgraded interior. Ford also beefed up the brakes, which now offer fine modulation and confidence-inspiring stopping power.

The turbocharged six never overwhelms the chassis, nor does it feel underpowered. Call the thrust level "adequate" in the Rolls-Royce manner. Not that the Flex is Rolls refined. There's a hint of coarseness to everything Ford builds on the D3/D4 platform (the MKS, the MKT, the Taurus, the Explorer, the Flex) that the company has yet to entirely iron out. It's not bad, it just feels as if it should somehow be better.

2013 Ford Flex
On Sale: Spring 2012
Base Price: $30,885
Drivetrain:288-hp, 254-lb-ft, 3.5-liter V6/365-hp, 350-lb-ft, 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6; FWD/AWD, six-speed automatic
Fuel Economy: 3.5-liter: 20 mpg (FWD), 19 mpg (AWD); 3.5-liter turbo: 18 mpg (AWD)

By: Davey G. Johnson