Jalopnik

Seriously Cool Stash Of Saddam-Era Cars Found In Baghdad Underground Garage [Down On The Street Bonus Edition]

Murilee Martin — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 17:45:00 EDT

After Uday's Lamborghini got blown up, you might think that all the interesting cars were gone from Baghdad by now, with just Ford Probes remaining to hold the gearhead banner over the ancient city. Not so! Turbo Driver (aka The Wolf) has some sort of secret-type gig in Iraq and snapped these shots of an underground parking garage just packed with old Cadillacs, Rolls-Royces, and Mercedes-Benzes (plus what appears to be a Breezeway-equipped early-60s Mercury, among other things). We also get some bonus shots of military Land Rovers in the Green Zone. Who can identify all the vehicles in these photos? Make the jump to read The Wolf's description and see the entire gallery!

These are various cars found by the Coalition in downtown Baghdad. An accounting office from DoD was sent in to 'inventory' these and I was invited along as a resident gear head. They were reported to us by an 'informant' who detailed where they were. Several levels under ground, they had been there for some time and not used at all in years. Several of the newer ones were wrecked. We could never figure out why several were even notable enough to keep around. See how many you recognize!

Lots of Rolls and Caddy's. A few Benzes. One ESPECIALLY interesting one- near as I can tell, its some 1936 MB 500 K or some sort. The sign in front was in Arabic, and couldn't tell if it really went to this car or not. All I could find out is that something like 3 were built, all wheels were fully enclosed/skirted, it was dirty but otherwise in great shape, given the environment it has withstood. I doubt it had been moved in over a decade. Also surprising was there was no sign of rat-infestation on most of these. It was chilling to look at.

Had I had half a chance to get one thing outta there, this would have been my first choice.

Ok, these were parked outside the CPIC (coalition press info center) just inside the green zone. not sure if they were Aussie- or Brit-held vehicles; both groups drove Rovers (although from the flag on some, Brit is a first guess). All I know is, I've NEVER seen the little LR with a snorkel before, and never an armored version like these. I've ridden several times in a SLIGHTLY armored version; that was far different from our Hummers. These must have been like ovens. The armored version I was in was SLOW- these must have had speedo's measuring tenths of a mile per hour... but they were built like vaults.

Now, if i could only find the pics of the Norton that was buzzing around the green zone- it was old and gorgeous. VERY well kept.

Commenter Of The Day: Alley-Oop Edition [Commenter Of The Day]

Matt Hardigree — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 17:40:00 EDT

There's some debate on the origin of the alley-oop, which refers to one basketball player lobbing the ball in the vicinity of the hoop for another player to drop into the net for a basket. There's no general agreement on either the first player to use the maneuver or what the term means. Was it Al And Gerald Tucker? Was it David Thompson? Does the term come from the French acrobatic term allez-oop? We're not sure. But we know one when we see one. Like in today's 2010 Chevy Camaro Production post from Tonyola to Van_Sarockin.

First Tonyola throws it up:

Yes! Someone in the dark depths of GM truly understands. There's no such thing as too many gauges in a performance car, and I see eight of them on the Camaro. Why do so many hot and wannabe-hot cars only have speedo, tach, fuel, and temp gauges?

and Van_Sarockin slams it down:

Oil and Differential Temperature? Right over there. Altimeter? Absolutely. Spark Advance, Phase of Moon, I think we can squeeze them into the middle of the Speedo.
And about 275 toggle switches. With lights. One marked 'Eject'.

Actually, I drive differently when the Moon is waxing.

[Photo: Getty Images]

PCH, Turbo Offenhauser Euro Sedan Edition: Peugeot 404 or Rover 2000? [Project Car Hell]

Murilee Martin — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 17:30:00 EDT

Welcome to Project Car Hell, where you choose your eternity by selecting the project that's the coolest... and the most hellish! In our last matchup, the big-block '72 Ford Torino took advantage of Graverobber's Mad Max-themed PCH Tirade™ to unleash the Lord Humungus' dogs of war upon the '70 Mercury Cougar. Today, we return to a couple of familiar themes rolled into one: the perennial Britain-versus-France PCH Superpower battle and good ol' Fun With Engine Swaps!

I admit it- after finding the '60 Peugeot 403 near my house, I've been searching for a French car project to call my own (this in spite of having been the owner of a sadistically unreliable Peugeot 504 in the past). Thing is, the old Peugeots have something of a power deficit, and it just seems wrong to take the easy way out by doing a Japanese drivetrain transplant. Then Vintage Racer found this genuine Offenhauser turbo engine. Now we're talking! The Offy is a torque monster of a four-banger, with pistons the size of gallon paint cans and a racing history nothing else can touch, and it would be just the powerplant for this '68 Peugeot 404 sedan... which is priced at approximately 1/25th the price of the engine. This 404 gets PCH points for the classic statement "Ran when parked" and the inclusion of a parts car in the deal. You'll need to deal with the transmission and rear end issue, of course, and we suspect the Pug's frame might not really be up to Offy-style twistage... but imagine the looks of awe you'll get as you cruise your town's main drag with the sound of a 30s Indy racer bellowing from your little French sedan.

Did I mention that the engine here was "Overhauled many years ago, not run since?" No? Hey, when you get the impossible-to-find vintage turbo intake and exhaust components as part of the $21,500 deal, you can't complain- you'll sort it out! And you'll definitely be motivated to do so every time you look in your garage... because you'll see that amazing engine sitting on the concrete right next to this '65 Rover 2000 sedan. We don't know how much the seller wants for it, but it's a safe assumption that he or she hasn't exactly been overwhelmed by offers so far, in spite of the fact that it's "all origional, paint is ever pritty good." You can sell the engine (which the seller claims has "less than 8000miles on it since rebuild") to defray, oh, 0.03% of the cost of the Offy, and recline in that fine, fine Rover seat and dream of the day when you own the only Offenhauser-powered Rover sedan in your time zone.

Mosler MT900 Red Devil Dynos At 1635 HP, Says, "I Don't Need No LS9" [Custom Cars]

Wes Siler — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 17:15:00 EDT

1,635 HP sounds like an awful lot, but when it comes to the Mosler MT900S Red Devil, it's not even the whole story. Its owner, Mike Vietro, called off the dyno run at a measly 5,600 RPM with power still climbing 70 HP every 100 RPM. Corvette Mike estimates he could have seen as much as 1,800 HP had he let the test continue up to 6,200 RPM. So how does his LS7-powered supercar do it?

The 7.0-liter, 550 HP stock engine is equipped with twin turbos from Nelson Racing Engines and needs race fuel to hit those figures. It carries an auxiliary fuel tank expressly for that purpose, while the main tank hold premium pump gas, which automatically switches the engine into "low 1,000s mode."

The engine will now be put through a final tuning phase before taking to the track I the near future with the aim of setting many speed and performance records.
[via World Car Fans]

Foose Coupes Start Hitting The Road [Custom Cars]

Ben Wojdyla — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 16:45:00 EDT

After years of lusting for the shape he created as a student at Art Center College of Design in 1990, Chip Foose is finally selling his Hemisfear-inspired Foose Coupe to the public. This one is number 4, the second one on sale to Joe Public, and it's just been delivered to a buyer out Californee-way. You may be wondering why we're reporting on rich guys buying cars today. Well. Considering the massive meltdown of the US auto market, we're forced to actually tell you about every car sold in the US. Each one is big news. Press release below.

Hillbank Motor Corporation, Home of Superformance Distribution, Delivers Its First Foose Coupe
Irvine, CA - On Tuesday, July 17, Hillbank Motor Corporation, the home of
Superformance Distribution and Shelby Distribution USA delivered its first
Foose Coupe to its lucky new owner. "It was a very proud day for us," said
Lance Stander, CEO of Superformance Distribution. "We wish the new owner all
the best and lots of fun driving."

This particular Coupe is the fourth built and only the second available to
the public. It features a unique paint scheme featuring a carbon fiber
spears on the front, back, and sides surrounded by flames hand painted by
Chip Foose himself. Power comes from a 392ci (6.4L) Hemi V8 producing
approximately 500 horsepower and 480 lb-ft torque, with power being sent to
the wheels through a 5-speed manual transaxle. The polished aluminum wheels
are Foose-designed, and are wrapped with Pirelli PZero tires. Inside, the
Foose Coupe features plush leather seating with 4-point safety harnesses,
carbon fiber trim, and a pistol grip shifter.

About the Foose Coupe

The Foose Coupe debuted at the 2006 SEMA Show to incredible reviews from the
automotive press and community and is available to the public as a signature
series limited edition vehicle available through Superformance Distribution.
Production will be limited to just 50 vehicles. The Foose Coupe features a
carbon fiber monocoque body, independent front and rear suspension, 14-inch,
6-piston Baer brakes, and 20-inch Pirelli PZero tires. Each vehicle is
signed by Chip and will be documented in the Foose Registry.

Foose Coupe Features:

* Design: Stylized and Conceived by Chip Foose
* Builder: Metalcrafters, Inc.
* Vehicle Type: Limited Edition, Mid-Engine, Rear Wheel Drive, 2 Passenger, 2 Door Coupe
* Engine: 6.4 L (392 cu.in.) Mopar Hemi V-8, Iron Block, Aluminum Heads or 5.4 L DOHC, 32-Valve, 90-Degree V-8, Ford GT Aluminum Heads
* Fuel Delivery System: Individual Hilborn Throttle Bodies with Velocity Stack Air Intakes (8), AEM Electronic Fuel Injection
* Transmission: ZF 5-Speed Manual Transaxle
* Body and Chassis: Carbon Fiber Monocoque Cabin on Modular Steel Space Frame
* Suspension: Front: Independent, Unequal Length Control Arms, Inboard-mounted Koni Coilover Shock Absorbers Actuated by Rocker Arms. Rear: Independent, Unequal Length Control Arms, Koni Coilover Shock Absorbers
* Brakes: 6-piston Baer Monoblock Calipers, 14" Cross-drilled and Vented Rotors, Tilton Series 75 Master Cylinder
* Steering: Woodward Rack and Pinion
* Tires/Wheels: Front: 225/40 ZR 18 Pirelli PZero on 20 x8 Foose Polished, Rear: 315/35 ZR 20 Pirelli PZero on 20 x12 Foose Polished
* General Data: Weight: 2775 lbs, Overall Length: 163.89", Overall Width: 91.50", Overall Height: 45.39", Wheelbase: 120", Track: 60.94" (Front), 65.51" (Rear)

2010 Mazda3 Caught Riding Dirty In Death Valley [2010 Mazda3]

Matt Hardigree — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 16:15:00 EDT

We've just received some photos from Death Valley of the 2010 Mazda3 undergoing some extreme weather testing, which we hope well temporarily sate the appetites of those excited by the exceptional Mazda3 photoshops. A few details on the car are noticeable despite the heavy camouflaging, including a peak at the lower part of those nose, revealing the Nagare design language also present on the Mazda Kazamai Concept, something we were expecting.

The most intriguing details might be in the rear (nullus), where the Mazda's shoulders seem to be raised and the deck is clearly shortened compared to the current generation Mazda3. The taillights also appear to be more dramatic and aggressive, angling where the current lights merely wrap. Given the direction Mazda is going in with its design, we can't wait to see the real thing. (thanks to Cord for the tip) [Mariusz on Flickr]

Volkswagen Knows How To Handle A Load [Ad Watch]

Matt Hardigree — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 15:45:00 EDT

What It's Selling: Volkswagen Trucks

Where It's At: South America

What This Ad Literally Says: "Volkswagen Trucks. For every kind of load."

What This Ad Intends To Say: All of your consumer goods get delivered in a truck. We make trucks.

What This Ad Suggests: You need Volkswagen trucks like you need milk in your coffee.

Jalopnik Snap Judgment: Other than the unintentional innuendo with the mention of "load" and the creamy milk shot, it's a clean message and a sharp graphic. This is brand messaging, not intended to sell a particular vehicle but rather shore up awareness and positive feelings about VW trucks as a whole. Clever, clever. Another great one from the same series here

[Ads Of The World]

2009.5 Ford F-150 Diesel Spotted, Could Produce 350 HP [2009 Ford F-150 Diesel]

Matt Hardigree — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 15:15:00 EDT

Ford is out and about testing the 2009.5 Ford F-150 Diesel, this time with sheetmetal more suiting to the 2009 model year. As proof that this is the new diesel-powered F-150, the photographers from KGP managed to snap pictures of the "DIESEL FUEL ONLY" strip over the gauge cluster, the telltale slotted/sideways exhaust tips and, most importantly, the first shots of the tank access for the urea. We'd also point out the seven-lug wheels, indicative of the heavy duty payload package. Performance targets for the 4.4-liter diesel V8 and the full spy report below the jump.

According to KGP, the new engine should be capable of a 9% increase in power and a 15% increase in torque relative to the 5.4-liter gas V8. According to this leaked report, the gas V8 should be capable of 320 HP and 390 lb-ft of torque.

Jalopnik Snap Judgment: Doing the math, this would put the diesel V8 at approximately 350 HP and 450 lb-ft of torque, while still achieving 20% fuel economy. Let's hope sources and calculators don't lie.

2010.5 Ford F-150 Diesel Spy Report Ford's F-150 diesel has moved beyond the mule stage, and is now running as a fully trimmed prototype, wearing the latest F-150 sheetmetal. We caught this prototype taking a break from hot-weather testing, and we can now reveal some details confirming its diesel status.
A look inside the cockpit reveals a large "Diesel Fuel Only" warning sticker placed under the F-150's gage-faces. We also peeked inside the fuel door to see the the Urea Fill Port next to the diesel input port. The Urea port will allow the occasional addition of a Aqueous Urea, which acts as a Selective Catalytic Reducer to cut NOx emissions—allowing the F-150 to meet emissions requirements. The Urea tank is sized to be filled at the F-150's oil change intervals.

The F-150's diesel is a 4.4-liter V8, which will see a 9% increase in power and a 15% increase in torque, while delivering a 20% increase in fuel-economy—when compared to Ford's current 5.4-liter V8 gasoline engine. Ford expects to launch the 4.4-liter diesel on the 2010-1/2 F-150.

Production 2010 Chevy Camaro Revealed! [2010 Chevy Camaro]

Ray Wert — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 13:16:02 EDT

The image associated with this post is best viewed using a browser. This is it. The 2010 Chevy Camaro, revealed in all its glory. According to details we've been told by the folks breaking the embargo, the new Chevy Camaro will come in LS, LT and SS (yes, we know there's a badge there that says "RS")— and be available in either 6-speed manual or auto flavors. Under the hood, a 296 HP 3.6-liter V6 or a 416 HP 6.2-liter V8 with cylinder deactivation. And check out that interior — looks very muscular to us. Weight? How about 3,747 lb — lighter than the Challenger. Full details below the jump.

Here's what we're told from the folks at CarTribe:

The Camaro will come in LS, LT and full-on SS specs and be available with 6-speed manual and auto transmissions. Under the bonnet sit fuel-efficient 296bhp 3.6-liter V6 and 416bhp 6.2-liter V8 engines, which can run on fewer cylinders to improve economy.
It shouldn't just be a burnout king either, handling should be pretty good thanks to an all-independent suspension setup and a StabiliTrak stability control system. 4-pot Brembo brakes front and rear shed the speed on the SS. Weight balance is split 52/48 front/rear too, but the Camaro is a porker, weighing in at more than 1,700kgs.

The interior gets cool LED lighting, leather seats on posher models and dials and gauges inspired by 1969 Camaros. The US gets the car in early 2009, while we'll get it some time after that. Super.

[via CarTribes]

Germans Don Cute Pink Overalls To Festoon Ford Plant With Fiesta Banners [Novelties]

Ben Wojdyla — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 13:15:00 EDT

It's hard to say whether someone at Ford Europe has a cruel sense of humor, or if these were just the last overalls in the bin. Whatever the reason, they're pink, and they were worn by workers installing huge banners over the Cologne Plant ahead of the celebration at the start of 2009 Ford Fiesta production. The banner installation was installed over the course of eight days and adds a solid whack of color to the otherwise drab industrial landscape. Whatever, we just want a pair of those fancy trousers.

[WorldCarFans]

Shelby SuperCars Makes Ultimate Aero EV Official, Plans 1000 HP Version [Ssc Ultimate Aero Ev]

Wes Siler — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 13:14:00 EDT

News of Shelby SuperCars' intention to build an electric version of its record breaking SSC Ultimate Aero TT leaked out yesterday prompting the company to make the news official. The company expects the SSC Ultimate Aero EV to be ready by late next year, saying that it will initially feature a 500 HP electric motor and revolutionary batteries capable of holding their charge for "years." Additionally, the vehicle will use a 6-speed transmission and once the first model is out, they'll be exploring ways to fit two of the motors into the engine bay, resulting in a 1000 HP model. It's tempting to call shenanigans on this, but when you've made the world's fastest car, beating huge German companies in the process, you suddenly gain a lot of credibility. SSC are keeping additional details hush hush, but click through to read their full performance claims.

West Richland, WA (July 18, 2008) Shrouded in mystery and secrecy, SSC (www.shelbysupercars.com) has announced plans to unveil the next historical milestone, codenamed - the Ultimate Aero EV (Electric Vehicle), the first 100% Green Supercar to achieve speeds never before seen. Engineering details are yet undisclosed while development continues at an uninterrupted pace. Despite months of speculation, SSC expects to roll out its first prototype in February 2009. "I think we can do it faster, leaner and cleaner than any other manufacturer," says Jerod Shelby, SSC Founder. Unlike other manufacturers' models slated for delivery in the next decade, Shelby's latest brainchild expects to be delivered as early as fourth quarter 2009. Other automakers have sacrificed aesthetics and performance in exchange for hybrid power plants, but the Ultimate Aero EV will deliver a pollution-free, engineering marvel with an exotic Supercar exterior. The drive train under development will feature a revolutionary power source allowing for extended time between charging intervals with the possibility of several years between charging. Powered by a 500 horsepower electric motor, the Ultimate Aero EV will have true supercar performance. All 500 horses will be put to use via SSC's 6-speed manual transmission and triple disc carbon/carbon Tilton clutch. Additionally, SSC is exploring the potential of a twin 500 horsepower electric power plant producing 1,000 horsepower in a 2 or 4 wheel drive configuration. Having already broken the record for the "Fastest Production Car" SSC will soon break the engineering challenge of our time. Says Jay Leno of SSC's first accomplishment, "The coolest thing about this car is they said they were going to do something and then they did it." While other manufacturers scramble to capture the Green hysteria of late, SSC will leap over the barrier with a fraction of the Big Three's budget. To that end, the company recently contracted with Investor Relations Group, Sheffield International Finance Corporation initiating the Company's first acceptance of outside capital since its inception. In a press release dated July 11, 2008, the American automaker announced that much of the private capital will be dedicated to achieve the historical milestone. The invitation-based offering includes an A-list of invitees including celebrities and notable financiers from around the world. Consistent with its company philosophy of being the benchmark, SSC plans next to break the record for the fastest electric car in the world. Stay tuned...

Seattle Body Shop Has Best Loaner Car Ever [2008 BMW M3]

Ben Wojdyla — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 13:13:00 EDT

Haury's Lake City Collision in Seattle, Washington is run by geniuses. What better way to attract customers to your business than by offering the greatest loaner car ever - a 2008 BMW M3. The ultimate M3 (well, at least until the BMW M3 CSL comes out) is available for rent while customers await the completion of their repairs, though we'd bet with a replacement like this, their customers don't care how long it takes. The most brilliant part of this thing — a new BMW M3, owned by the company, that can be written off as a depreciating asset. Freakin. Brilliant. [HaurysCollision via Cardomain]

Chrysler Sebring, Dodge Avenger To "Fight Back" With Better Trim, Smaller Engines [Industry News]

Wes Siler — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 13:11:00 EDT

Chrysler's latest survival scheme? Fancy toys in budget models. It used to be, that if you wanted heated seats and other fancy interior amenities in your Chrysler Sebring or Dodge Avenger, you had to plop down more cash for the 3.5-liter V6-equipped models. Now, as the company struggles to stay afloat amid high gas prices and a weak economy, it's rethinking that approach and now looking to offer high-spec in its four cylinder models and dropping the highest trim level as part of a plan they're calling "Fight Back." At what? Hit the jump for the answer.

Auto Analyst Mike Wall explained the decision to the Detroit News:

"Given where fuel prices are at, I'm not sure that people are following the old progression that the higher the trim-level, the bigger the engine...(Chrysler) needs to hit what the customer wants, and that may be a 4-cylinder engine with leather seats and a navigation system."

This is actually the most sensible thing we've seen Chrysler do, offering customers cars that look and feel nice, but that also get good economy. Unfortunately, rivals like Honda have been doing this for years and doing so with cars that drive much better, have interiors that feel softer and in which "four-cylinder" isn't a dirty word. Here's hoping Chrysler continues this run of common sense by making cars that consumers may actually want to buy. [via Detroit News]

Gratuitous 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 Burnout Photo [2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8]

Ray Wert — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 12:47:47 EDT

The image associated with this post is best viewed using a browser.You know, because we can. Look for more video and photos of the Jalopnik team hooning the 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 early next week. Remember to also hit up the review if you haven't already done so:

• 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8, Part One
• 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8, Part Two
• 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8, Part Three

Jackie Chan Shows Us The Joy Of Minivan Hoonage: Volkswagen Caddy [Classic Ad Watch]

Murilee Martin — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 12:45:00 EDT

The sequence is pretty straightforward: A China-market VW Caddy Panel Van rolls off its carrier and- driverless- drives away going against the flow of traffc, sowing chaos and death in its wake. Jackie Chan leaps from another VW onto a truck, commandeers a motorcycle, and... well, you just need to watch the ad. Our only disappointment is the lack of the traditional Chan outtakes at the end.

J.D. Power: Car Dealership Customer Satisfaction Improves, Jaguar Comes Out On Top Again [Industry News]

Matt Hardigree — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 12:15:00 EDT

According to the 28th annual J.D. Power and Associates Customer Service Index, car dealerships rose in customer satisfaction so far this year, due mostly to an increased satisfaction with repair work. Overall, two-thirds of the 37 brands ranked experienced gains in customer satisfaction. Dealer service overall increased to 882 on a 1,000-point scale, with Jaguar ranking highest in customer satisfaction for the second year in a row followed by Cadillac and Buick. Top ten brands below the jump.

10.) Honda
9.) BMW
8.) Infiniti
7.) Acura
6.) Mercury
5.) Lincoln
4.) Lexus
3.) Buick
2.) Cadillac
1.) Jaguar

Jalopnik Snap Judgement: In this less-than-profitable auto market, dealerships are working harder to maintain ties with customers by offering a better service department experience. Makes sense to us.

Full press release below:

Overall Satisfaction with Dealer Service Increases
WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif.: 17 July 2008 — Overall customer satisfaction with dealer service improves considerably in 2008—with more than two-thirds of the 37 ranked brands demonstrating gains—according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2008 Customer Service Index (CSI) StudySM released today.

The study, now in its 28th year, measures satisfaction among vehicle owners who visit the dealer service department for maintenance or repair work during the first three years of ownership, which typically represent the majority of the vehicle warranty period.

After remaining relatively flat since 2005, overall satisfaction with dealer service increases to 882 on a 1,000-point scale in 2008—an improvement of 6 points from 2007. The improvement is primarily due to a combination of an increase in the proportion of maintenance work performed and improvements in satisfaction with repair work. Customers who visit the dealer for routine maintenance tend to be more satisfied (894), on average, than are repair customers (862). The proportion of customers bringing their vehicles to the dealer for repair work has declined to a historic low in 2008, averaging 35 percent. Customer satisfaction with repair work increases notably—improving by 9 points since 2007—with gains made by both premium and non-premium brands. However, satisfaction with maintenance work increases only slightly in 2008.

"Improved levels of vehicle quality have led to a decline in the need for vehicle repairs during the first three years of ownership," said David Sargent, vice president of automotive research at J.D. Power and Associates. "Despite the fact that the majority of service visits—65 percent—are for maintenance work, dealers are very focused on the need to satisfy their repair customers. Given today's market conditions—where dealers are finding it extremely difficult to achieve profitability—it is vital that they not overlook the importance of ensuring their service customers are satisfied. Not only does meeting and exceeding the expectations of customers through after-sales service result in increased likelihood that those customers will return for service, but it also results in increased likelihood that those customers will stay loyal to the brand when they are next in the market for a vehicle."

For a second consecutive year, Jaguar ranks highest in customer satisfaction with dealer service. Jaguar achieves an overall CSI score of 923 and is closely followed in the rankings by Cadillac (922) and Buick (919).

"Jaguar dealers receive very high satisfaction scores among repair customers, particularly in the service initiation, service advisor and user-friendly service measures," said Sargent. "Cadillac improves by one rank position in 2008. This is also attributable to its particularly high levels of satisfaction among repair customers. Buick has strong performance among non-premium brands, and its continuing efforts to improve quality have resulted in a decreasing incidence of repair visits among the brand's customers."

The study also finds that communicating with customers after service work has been completed has a notably strong impact on satisfaction particularly through increasing customer perceptions of fairness of charges and the value of service received. For customers that receive an explanation of work performed or an explanation of charges, satisfaction is approximately 100 points higher, on average, than if no explanations were provided. Approximately 82 percent of customers report that they received explanations of the work performed on their vehicle, while 58 percent say they received an explanation of charges, when necessary.

"Many times, it is the quality of communication provided by service personnel that makes the difference between a satisfied customer and a true advocate," said Sargent. "When customers are provided with clear explanations as to why the work performed on their vehicle was necessary, as well as the reasoning behind the charges, it improves satisfaction with the value of the work performed, as well as perceptions of the fairness and honesty of the dealer. Consistently following these relatively simple steps helps to foster trust among customers, which is critical to building loyalty for future service work as well as future sales. For example, 78 percent of customers who rate the fairness of charges as 'outstanding' say that they will return to the dealership for routine maintenance after the warranty expires, while only 49 percent of customers who provide 'average' fairness ratings say the same."

The study also finds the following key patterns:

* While 5 percent of customers say that they would prefer to schedule their service visit with the dealer via the Internet, only 1 percent of customers actually do so. The vast majority of customers—74 percent—call the dealership to schedule an appointment, while 25 percent of customers just drop in.
* When vehicles are returned to the customer cleaner than they were when received by the dealer, satisfaction scores average 48 points higher than scores provided by customers whose vehicles showed no difference in cleanliness. However, there is a particularly large decline in satisfaction—202 points, on average—if vehicles are returned less clean than when they were received.
* Among customers who report speaking to a service advisor immediately upon arriving at the dealership, satisfaction scores average 927—224 points higher than among customers who say they waited more than 5 minutes to speak to a service advisor.

The 2008 CSI Study is based on responses from 87,302 owners and lessees of 2005 to 2007 model-year vehicles. The study was fielded between January and April 2008. J.D. Power and Associates measures dealer service in various countries around the world, including Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, the Philippines, South Africa, Taiwan, Thailand and the UK.

[Source: JD Power]

What Car Would You Drive Round The Lutz Ring? [Question Of The Day]

Matt Hardigree — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 11:45:00 EDT

Today's video of journalists being driven around the road course at GM's Milford Proving Grounds ( a.k.a. the "Lutz Ring") in the 2009 Corvette ZR1 got us thinking about all those cars we'd like to hoon around the not-really-very-famous track. This leads to the obvious question: what vehicle would you like to take round the Lutz Ring for ultimate proving?

High on our list would be the Chevy Volt, because we're curious how far along it is. We'd also like to try our hands at a Phaeton, which was designed to take the worst kind of punishment imaginable for a road car. We'd want to drive, but we'd definitely invite the Lutz along for some Aussie-style hooning in the Pontiac G8 ST. And just for Lutz Lolz, we'd like to see how long it would take to rip apart the new Fiesta on the road surface course adjacent to the high speed ring.

Maybe if you impress "Maximum" Bob with your choice and he's reading, he'll take you for a romantic ride in his plane. So hop to it — what would you like to send around his ring?

Gibbs To Set Up Shop In Detroit, Finally Build Aquada Amphibious Car [Gibbs Aquada]

Ben Wojdyla — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 11:15:00 EDT

After the announcement earlier this month that Saleen is teaming with Gibbs for development and manufacturing work on their amphibious Gibbs Aquada, news comes down Gibbs is setting up their corporate offices in the Detroit Suburb of Auburn Hills. After a ten year development cycle, a million man hours of work, and $100 million invested in the project, the final steps are being taken to put the automotive platypus into production.

When the boat-car debuts, it'll be the first major amphibious civilian vehicle since the Amphicar went to market in 1961. The three seat Aquada will be able to hit 110 MPH on the street and about 40 MPH or 35 knots on the water and will sell for about $85,000. Production location has not be set yet, but Michigan is also high on the list for that one as well. We're just wondering how the insurance companies would handle water damage on an amphibious car. [Detroit News]

Video From Yesterday's Corvette ZR1 Long-Lead Drive Seeps Out, Shows Magazines "Driving" Blue Devil [2009 Corvette ZR1]

Ray Wert — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 10:40:00 EDT

We'd heard the long-lead media "drive" for the 2009 Corvette ZR1 was yesterday and it looks like the first in-car driving footage is now out on the web, less than 24 hours later. We obviously weren't there, primarily since we'd heard it was all magazines there. Frankly, we just don't need as much time as the glossies to put out a good story. We don't have character blocks to set in the printing press, no ink to squirt out and no parchment to unroll. So we guess it makes sense that we wouldn't need an invite to an event this far out. Of course, we also expected the invited media reps from the big n' bad buff books would, you know, drive the cars themselves. UPDATE: The video's from Motive Mag, an online publication. Who knew they needed extra time too? Slow pokes.

Instead, we're treated to GM test engineer Jim Mero — we think — driving one of the invited journalists around the road course at the General's Milford Proving Grounds. We know Mero's a pretty damn good driver — he shot the ZR1 'round the Nubrugring in record time. Maybe he was just having a bad day today, but how many cones did he hit on this particular run 'round the "Lutz Ring?" Probably a lot less than the number whoever he was driving would have had he gotten behind the wheel himself.

Not to say he didn't. Whoever it is in the passenger seat probably did get a few minutes of limited driver seat time. We just hope this video won't cast aspersions on "test drives" coming out of the event. [More over at VetteTube]

GM Developing View-Enhancing Laser Windshield, Intends To Outspend Reds In Automotive Cold War [Gadgets]

Wes Siler — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 10:20:00 EDT

General Motors is building a prototype windshield capable of enhancing a driver's vision with lasers. No, this isn't the automotive equivalent of LASIK, but rather a system for identifying road markings and making them more visible to drivers during difficult conditions. The system is being developed with older drivers in mind, and of course won't be able to completely compensate for bad vision. So how does it work?

The system is different from a Heads Up Display or existing night vision systems in that it works over a much larger area of the windscreen and serves to highlight, not obscure vision. A system of grille-mounted cameras operating outside the visible spectrum scan the road ahead while more sensors inside determine the location of the drivers head and eyes. Invisible lasers then light up the specially coated windscreen, which reacts to their beams, highlighting things like lane markings, traffic signs, pedestrians and other vehicles. While the system is intended for older drivers, it could end up being useful to anyone who has to drive through heavy fog or rain.

The technology is still in the experimental phase, but is growing increasingly valuable as the proportion of older drivers in the world's biggest markets continues to increase rapidly. GM foresees demand from these customers for technology that will enable them to remain independent later in life while remaining safe.

Jalopnik Snap Judgement: We like toys. We especially like toys that make us safer. So if this works, and doesn't add too much to the cost or weight of the vehicle, we very well may like it too.

[via Car Central]

Sen. Larry Craig: Foreigners Shouldn't "Jerk Us Around By The Gas Nozzle" [I Feel Gassy]

Ben Wojdyla — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 10:00:00 EDT

Senator Larry Craig (R-Bathroom Fondling) was the member with the balls to grandstand in front of the open Senate in pursuit of relaxing the congressional ban on offshore drilling ban on some coastal areas. From every other distinguished member of the Senate, this wouldn't be funny. But then again, not every other member of the Senate have been busted trying to allegedly fool around in the men's room. [CrooksandLiars]

First US Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Delivered To New York Developer Benny Caiola, Jr. [Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4]

Ben Wojdyla — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 09:40:00 EDT

The first Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 in the United States, an all-white copy of the latest raging bull, has landed in the hands of collector Benny Caiola, Jr. The 560 HP, all-wheel-drive supercar will be making its home outside of New York City, beside bull-headed cars like Lambo's Jalpa, Countach, Espada, Diablo, Miura and others. It's obvious Benny's a long time fan of the Italian bovine, saying "I've loved Lamborghinis my entire life and have owned nearly every model." There's a joke about old Jaguars that goes "Why do you always buy two Jaguars? To have one to drive while the other's in the shop." We're betting Benny has many, many Lambos for the same reason. Full press release after the jump.

Lamborghini Delivers the Nation's First Gallardo LP560-4 to Celebrated Italian Car Collector ~ Benny Caiola Adds New, Critically Acclaimed Lamborghini in Private Collection ~
NEW YORK, July 17, 2008 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ — Automobili Lamborghini America, LLC delivered the first Gallardo LP560-4 to Benny Caiola, Jr., noted Italian car enthusiast and collector, this week at his home outside of New York City. The all-new 560 horsepower LP560-4, which replaces the previous Gallardo model, features a powerful new engine, permanent four-wheel drive system and an 18 percent reduction in fuel consumption and C02 emissions.

Mr. Caiola secured the right to the first LP560-4 through a generous bid at the East Side House Settlement charity auction during the 2008 New York International Auto Show. Caiola's impressive garage, boasting dozens of exotic and collector cars, has housed many of Lamborghini's iconic and timeless models including the Countach, Diablo, Espada, Jalpa and the legendary Miura.
"Lamborghini was the first to garner my passion for automobiles," Caiola explained. "I've loved Lamborghinis my entire life and have owned nearly every model."

The Gallardo LP560-4 arrives at all 31 United States showrooms in late summer of 2008. The Gallardo, with more than 7,100 units sold worldwide, is Lamborghini's most successful model of all time. As of today, there is a six month waiting list for the new Gallardo LP560-4 signaling that the success of the Gallardo model will continue for years to come.

About Lamborghini

Founded in 1963, Automobili Lamborghini is headquartered in Sant'Agata Bolognese, in Northeastern Italy and manufactures some of the world's most sought after super sports cars. With 34 dealerships in North America and 114 worldwide, Automobili Lamborghini has created a succession of dynamic and elegant super sports cars including the Miura, Islero, Urraco, 350GT, Espada, Countach, Diablo, Murcielago LP640, Murcielago LP640 Roadster, Gallardo Coupe, Gallardo Spyder, Gallardo SE, Gallardo Superleggera, Reventon and the recently launched 2009 Gallardo LP560-4. For more information on Automobili Lamborghini, please visit the website at http://www.lamborghini.com.
SOURCE Automobili Lamborghini America, LLC

http://www.lamborghini.com

[via MotorAuthority]

1973 Buick Electra 225, With Bonus 1973 Poll [Down On The Street]

Murilee Martin — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 09:20:00 EDT

You think the supply of old cars and trucks parked on the streets of Alameda will dry up, now that we've hit the 300 point? I doubt it, not when you can still find Early Malaise Era landyachts like this Electra being used as daily transportation. Five-dollar gas be damned! I found this car parked near the former Alameda Naval Air Station, where thousands of nuclear weapons once sat it earthen bunkers and thousands of sailors once drove second-gen Camaros. Nowadays they shoot movies and make vodka at the old NAS, and the sound of A6s and P3s no longer competes with the roar of small-block Chevy engines.

Heraldic crests! Knights in armor! Seeing this hood ornament, I find it impossible to believe that Buick didn't offer an Electra Brougham for '73. Surely there must be some mistake!

Just in time for the Arab oil embargo of '73, this 4,682-pound dreamboat purred down the highway courtesy of a 210-horse 455 engine. That seems like a pretty poor power-to-weight ratio, but keep in mind that Tricky Dick lowered the speed limit the very next year. Just in time, too, because this car probably gets 9 MPG at 75 MPH and 11 MPG at 55 MPH.

This car is in very nice original condition, but you don't have to go to a car show to see this kind of thing on the Island That Rust Forgot!

We've had 18 cars from the first year of the Malaise Era in this series, and some- maybe even most- of them are pretty cool. That means we need a poll! Vote for your favorite 1973 DOTS machine, then check out the '73 Electra gallery.

First 300 DOTS Vehicles • DOTS FAQ

Leaked Memo Claims 2009 Subaru Impreza WRX To Get 265 HP, New GT Level Model [2009 Subaru WRX]

Ray Wert — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 09:00:00 EDT

A member of the NASIOC forum has posted what appears to be a memo leaked from Subaru to the company's dealers revealing the revelation of a new Impreza GT. Just as importantly, the 2009 WRX's new 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gets an additional 41 HP, bringing the total power up to a whopping 265 HP. Also available will be a manual transmission, upgraded suspension and a more STI-like front end. We really liked the 2008 Subaru WRX STI, but with these changes, we're beginning to think the 2009 Subaru WRX may make just as much sense for many buyers. Well, except for that whole lack-of-a-stick thing on the GT model. More details below the jump on what to expect from the '09 Subie WRX.

According to the dealer memo:

"We look with anticipation as the dealers begin selling the refreshed 2009 Impreza with new added features such as a moonrood included in the premium package, interior changes for the ivory interior and a new model called the Impreza GT. This model will be an automatic vehicle with the 224 hp engine from the WRX. The new WRX will get an upgraded suspension, will only be available with a manual transmission, an STI-type front grill, a standard aero package, and the big news being the engine with its estimated 265 hp rating. In addition, look for the new gray color on the wheels and interior treatment with its red stitching on the steering wheel and seats."

Wow, talk about leaving the best for last! We can't wait for that red stitching! [NASIOC via Carscoop]

KITT's Turbo Boost Is Back For New Knight Rider Series [Knight Rider]

Ben Wojdyla — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 08:40:00 EDT

It's official — "Turbo Boost" is back for KITT. One of the biggest disappointments in the Knight Rider made-for-TV movie was the total lack of KITT's signature, once-per-show super-move — turbo-boost. After getting the green light for series production, the new Knight Rider series has already calmed our fears the super-speedy feature was overlooked. NBC's released this short promo clip with a very un-Kilmer like KITT saying "just wait until you see my turbo-boost." We will, oh Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR-bodied KITT, we will. [via KnightriderOnline]