THOTH Posted February 19, 2003 Report Share Posted February 19, 2003 Accelerated - Sweet. I am a big fan of the Mazda6 - great car! We actualy might have been getting one but my wife has nixed getting another Mazda - she wants something "different" (we have a Millenia S...but looks like its on its last legs - or at least is too $$$ to repair right now). She also wants a wagon and the Mazda6 wagon is still many months (up to 1 year) away here - it looks very sharp BTW. Did I mention that we are actually in the market for 2 ccars - one this Spring and another next winter. Wife really wants a wagon - and whe wants German vice Japanese. She has been talking Jetta/Passat...but I have her already agreeing on the Audi A4! Now - I have found a used (low milage - 1K) S4 Avant (wagon) at basically the same price that I can get an A4 new at - well - for me the chooice is clear...now comes the convincing. And this way I may still getr my WRX STi next winter! Can you imagine - both an S$ Wagon and WRX Sti in the driveway! I'd be in (drivers) heaven! Even "settling" for the A4 would be OK (I mean come now - great car!) - but frankly - for the perhaps $8-10K US less - I'd be happy with the Mazda6...but a chance for the S4 i will not pass up(wife just gave me the OK to negotiate on it BTW - just now! LOL) BTW - have you seen the new S4 - man! HP up nearly 100hp over old one (unchipped of course!) etc etc - of course the price here in the US ($45K +) is prohibitive IMO...(and I'd likely "take" the M3 for that/near that...) [ February 19, 2003, 09:29 AM: Message edited by: THOTH ] Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Accelerated Posted February 19, 2003 Author Report Share Posted February 19, 2003 quote:actually, the old one, the one with problem, IS V6, and is a bit over 100k.The old V6 is a different engine to the one introduced in '93. quote:the new one is 4-cyl. but i'll live with it....their good economical cars, but I wouldnt recommend you keep em after you hit 100K, these head/gasket problems are reaccuring. Ours is a '94 and since we've gotten it four years ago its needed work on the engine head/gasket EVERY summer (overheating). The engine only produces around 95kW when brand new, 100K on you would be lucky to get 2/3 of that power, but the body doesnt lighten up........ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Accelerated Posted February 23, 2003 Author Report Share Posted February 23, 2003 Wow! an S4 and and Sti....though I suspect they wouldnt be very different on the road: both AWD + turbo power. Havnt posted anything latelly here, coz I been driving the Mazda . Very nice car, very classy looking, both in and out - many people think its a Lexus. I just got a couple of gripes: - The engine though very flexible and free revving, is underpowered for me....it seems only a WRX will satisfy my urges for acceleration . In isolation though, its a wonderful unit, mated with the short range 4-speed semi-auto gearbox works very well. I havnt had the nerve to thrash it yet, but in the first two days I put 200Ks on the odometer. - The sound system, although VERY powerful (4-speaker) lacks precision compared to the premium (6-speaker) system in my old Camry. I might be wrong though, might just have to play with the controls a little and get the right settings for me. It started raining the day after we took delivery, and has stayed wet since (3-days) in succession....I hate driving in the rain, particularly at night, so I havnt really enjoyed the car fully yet. Though with each day I like the car more and more (mainly due to small 'luxury' tidbits I discover) and I might yet change my mind about the engine, when I put the car through its paces proper and its got more Ks on it. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Sip Posted February 23, 2003 Report Share Posted February 23, 2003 My blazer was the first new car I have ever driven. Between the first 5000-6000 miles it really changed. There was a significant gain in milage (fuel efficiency increase of about 1-2 MPG) and the engine just seemed to be much more torquey compared to the first few thousand miles. I think that's when I also really learned to drive it well. After that I changed my intake and exhaust which also made some serious diference in throttle response. Some engine/tranny info: The engine is almost the same 4.3L V6 from my old blazer which I have been driving for about 10 years. It's not a big power plant but there is plenty of torque when you need it the most (climbing sutff). The transmission is also the same (700R4) as the old one, except on these news ones they are electronically controlled (called 4L60) ... but everything else the same. The 4L60 shifts much more preceisely than my old 700R4 even after being rebuilt. But still it's a bit too sloppy for my taste. GM tunes them for "comfort" and smooth shifting while of course harder shifting is better (in terms of tranny life and power output) The main difference between the two blazers is the weight though. The new one (ZR2) is MUCH heavier and also has 3.73 gears in the axle as opposed to 3.43 compared to the old. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Accelerated Posted February 23, 2003 Author Report Share Posted February 23, 2003 LOL - 4.3Ltr V6 IS a big powerplant, by Japanese and European standards anyway. btw. why dont you sell your old Blazer? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Sip Posted February 23, 2003 Report Share Posted February 23, 2003 quote:Originally posted by Accelerated:LOL - 4.3Ltr V6 IS a big powerplant, by Japanese and European standards anyway. btw. why dont you sell your old Blazer?4.3L with 250 ft-lb of torque is a LOT for a small sedan but not when you're driving a 5000lb truck!!! (no comment on whether my own weight is included in that or not ) My blazer is very slow to accelerate. I am never short of power when climbing things and there is almost no strain on the engine, but it just won't accelerate like a small car (or a V8 powered truck ). About the old blazer, I have put a lot of time, money, and effort into it and it's in tip top shape (for a 92)... before I got my new blazer, I completely re-did the breaks on that (new master cylinder, abs module, pads, rotors, drums, cylinders everything) ... then the radiator developed a big hole so I had that changed and that meant a NEW cooling system. Waterpump is also new. At about 100K miles (now has 120K), I had the transmission rebuilt cause the pump failed on it ... not to mention the lifts and the wheels and the other mods that I have done throughout the years. So I doubt anyone would give the amount of money that the truck is worth so best decision form an economic standpoint is just to keep it around. Plus I am waaay too attached to it But the main reason I keep it around is because I do some crazy stuff with this new blazer and if something breaks, I need to have backup around. The new blazer has already been at the dealer a few times and is likely to go back for some more warranty repairs soon. Also my dad's car is really old and I have no idea how it's still running (Mazda MPV station wagon) so again, it's nice to have a backup around. I'll eventually just give it to my little bro maybe! It's about time for him to start to learn how to drive. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
THOTH Posted February 24, 2003 Report Share Posted February 24, 2003 Accelerated - I will be test driving a used (2001) S4 Avant tommorow. It has a few mods - its been lowered a bit, exhauist and turbo intake mods and some big ole 19" Avus rims with Kumo 235/35/19 tires! I like the big rims/tires and the exhaust mods but I'll really have to check it out (8,500 miles on it). I'll also need to get some steel wheels or such for the winter and some big ole Blizzaks or the like! Can't wait to drive it! Yeah the S4 (my dream car...well the new M3 is just too $$$$) and the WRX STi!!!!! I suspect that despite their seeming similarity they will drive very different. the guy selling the S4 says its the best handling car he has ever driven. I don't fully believe him but I'm expecting to be a nice (high speed) ride. I suspec that the STi will be much more of a tosser (my kind of car that I have been missing the last 2 years since my MR2 has been off the road).... Oh & congrats again on the Mazda6. Of course it is no race car - but the handling is said to be superb. FYI - the day I picked up my Millenia I took it out on a newly opened (no traffic) highway. It was pouring down rain - absolute downpour....but I got out there and saw 120MPH on the speedo!! (kids were with me in the car BTW)...no problem - I had driven a Millenia before (in rain)...and I am much more used to high speed driving then the norm (I practically exeed 100 MPH every day! [ February 23, 2003, 07:22 PM: Message edited by: THOTH ] Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Accelerated Posted February 24, 2003 Author Report Share Posted February 24, 2003 Seap, fair enough (about not sellin the old blazer) THOTH, This S4 sounds like a beast - LOL (19inch tyres'n'all). Might be a good idea to check if its been to the track often, though I suspect its still under factory warranty. LOL - If the owner looks like a headbanger, ditto the car. quote:Yeah the S4 (my dream car...well the new M3 is just too $$$$)Thats a little odd, M3 is a only a few grand more expensive here than the S4 quote:Of course it is no race car - but the handling is said to be superb. Havnt really fully appreciated it yet, but it seems very good, yes. Mind you with 16inch alloys 205/45 tyres it would have to be good. I am allready thinking of a few mods when I get the cash. A nice big racing rear wing, 18inch alloys (these I could later put on the Sti) and a mild bodykit (sideskirts etc). Im not going to fiddle with the engine though, just the body, to make it look even more spectacular Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
THOTH Posted February 24, 2003 Report Share Posted February 24, 2003 Accel - yes - (I'm actually now going to check out the car tommorow)...I'm nearly certain that it has been at the track. I'll need to get the turbos and the springs/suspension totally checked out. Also I will get an extended warrenty if possible (don't know...). Some Audi's hold up well - others have problems (varries car by car) - so I am told. Anyway - hope I can go out on the test drive alone - otherwise my passenger seat will be getting wet! LOL Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Accelerated Posted February 26, 2003 Author Report Share Posted February 26, 2003 quote:I'm nearly certain that it has been at the track.Yes, it certainly sounds like it, with the mods you have mentioned. Look out for any signs of a rollcage (holes in cabin). btw. how was the test drive? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
THOTH Posted February 27, 2003 Report Share Posted February 27, 2003 Accel - Still haven't gone. I've been busy and we have had some nasty weather (snow)...perhaps tommorow - but even then not so sure...Thanks for the (rollcage) tip BTW...Anything else I should look for? I don't know if I could tell if the ECU or turbos have been tampered with (they did say something about turbo air intake...)... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Accelerated Posted February 27, 2003 Author Report Share Posted February 27, 2003 THOTH, quote:Anything else I should look for?LOL - I spend the last six months researching on how to buy a used (modified) Supra, but ended up gettin somethin else. There are a few things you should check out in a modified car (I suspect you will know better than me, the stuff you should look at when buying ANY used car eg. checking for evidence of major crash: uneven panel fit, overspray paint etc.) 1. Go and test drive a standard S4 at Audi and compare, check the engine compartment and compare to see any irregularities 2. If there was a rollcage fitted at anytime, you should find holes in the cabin, look under the carpet, near the corners etc. 3. A track car would also be fitted with 'cross-braces' linking the top of the suspensions in the enginebay and in boot. (the stock S4 may be allready be fitted with this though) 4. Ask to see the reciepts for the purchased and installed mods. Note the workshop the work was done at and go check it out, make sure its not just a garage - LOL and the modifications are covered by warranty and made by reputable brands. Talk to the people there, how long they have been in business, what cars they specialise in etc. 5. VERY IMPORTANT NOTE: The modifications will void some of the warranty from Audi. Scenario: The engine blows up, Audi will say "It was the mods to the intake and the chip" etc. Workshop will say "It was a faulty Audi engine, turbos etc." You cant prove neither wrong. get the idea? Personally, it would really have to be a very good bargain for me to buy anything with engine mods, even a chip. Chips can be programmed in any way, thus can be more damaging than many other mods. Keep in mind, ANY mod reduces the life of the car (engine), thats why the manufacturer doesnt make and sell mods, even though its a booming business. The argument that the modifications will make the car more expensive is wrong, because the manufacturer could set up a chain of 'workshops' for its brand, but these mods will not have a consistent effect on their cars because they have not been tested proply, because the manufacturer is trying to come up with the next car etc. quote:they did say something about turbo air intakeprobably 'cold-air' intake. Allows cooler (hence more dense) air to enter the chamber equating to more power....again Audi has not tested for this, and although it may seem beneficial to the car, it probably isnt in the long run. Thats all I can think of now, might remmember more stuff tommorow, hope it helped Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
THOTH Posted February 27, 2003 Report Share Posted February 27, 2003 Hey Accel - Super help - really. I've actually never bought a car used before and really don't have much add-on experience - so your tips will really help me when looking the car over (maybe today....I hope...). Thanks again. (I so do want this car...and wifey has already given the OK! - but I have a great deal oftrepidation for the reasons you have specified...) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Accelerated Posted February 28, 2003 Author Report Share Posted February 28, 2003 quote:Thanks again. no probs. Hope the test drive went well, if you havnt gone yet....you should look for these in any used car. 1. Test drive other cars of the same brand, model and built with a similar number on the odometer - compare. 2. IMPORTANT: Look for any signs that the car has been involved in an accident. Notably - paint 'overspray' in the boot and enginebay and look for uneven panel fit ie. gap between panels inconsistent etc. ....all I can think of at this time Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Accelerated Posted March 4, 2003 Author Report Share Posted March 4, 2003 My new desktop http://www.geocities.com/nissanskyline_uk/r34_7_800.jpg Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Sip Posted March 4, 2003 Report Share Posted March 4, 2003 NICE! By the way, sorry bro but geocities won't let you link images directly. You have to copy-paste the link to a new browser window ... this is THE LINK to your image. By the way, I saw a 2-door G500 Mercedes today at UCLA. A nice looking blond was driving it but traffic was such that I couldn't get close to check it out. I have NEVER seen one of those around here before, even though you see all sorts of strange and exotic cars around west-LA. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
THOTH Posted March 4, 2003 Report Share Posted March 4, 2003 LOL - Hey Accel - test drove the car - a beast - e real free reving screamer and tight as all! So I made an offer - we have agreed on a price (a few though below their price asn "blue bok" value)...we got hung up on my clearing the car mechanicaly - so it is now going over to an Audi for a full pre-sale chack out, perhaps a bit of warrently work (minor I would guess...windshield wipers & such...etc) and a 20,000mi service....so by Friday it should be mine!!!!!!! I'll try to post some picks sometime....believe me it is wicked! Its been badged out as an RS4 - and though its not that by any means (not even chipped...yet...) its a screamer. Driving around it got much attention (and respect/great interest from some honda tuner types..)- some of the bad unmarked kind...but he backed off...and I slowed down....... So Friday it is... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Accelerated Posted March 6, 2003 Author Report Share Posted March 6, 2003 quote:By the way, I saw a 2-door G500 Mercedes today at UCLASorry Sip, but thats just an ugly box. THOTH, sounds good, one thing though: chips can easilly be replaced. So he may have driven with another chip (keeping the original) and then replaced it to sell. But, if Audi gives thumbs up, escpessially if you get to keep the warranty I say go for it quote:Driving around it got much attention (and respect/great interest from some honda tuner types..)- some of the bad unmarked kind...but he backed off...and I slowed down.......Wont need to slow down next time btw. guys I wont be able to post as much, university has started and Im doing almost a double normal load to compensate for last semesters disaster(s). Should be active on this thread though Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Accelerated Posted March 22, 2003 Author Report Share Posted March 22, 2003 THOTH, whats happening with the S4 man, hope you havnt totalled it, and too ashamed to admit it Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Accelerated Posted May 3, 2003 Author Report Share Posted May 3, 2003 (edited) Some photoes of my fave car of the momment - LOL. The Nissan Skyline R34 GTR, also will feature in the up and coming '2 Fast 2 Furious' movie sequel to 'The Fast and The Furious'. Enjoy.... http://www.skylinesdownunder.co.nz/skylinepictures/r34pics/r34no65.jpghttp://www.skylinesdownunder.co.nz/skylinepictures/r34pics/r34no22.jpghttp://www.skylinesdownunder.co.nz/skylinepictures/r34pics/r34no60.jpghttp://www.skylinesdownunder.co.nz/skylinepictures/r34pics/r34no15.jpghttp://www.skylinesdownunder.co.nz/skylinepictures/r34pics/r34no40.jpghttp://www.skylinesdownunder.co.nz/skylinepictures/r34pics/r34no46.jpghttp://www.skylinesdownunder.co.nz/skylinepictures/R34-GTR/R34-GTR-2.jpghttp://www.skylinesdownunder.co.nz/skylinepictures/r34pics/r34no41.jpg Edited May 3, 2003 by Accelerated Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Accelerated Posted May 3, 2003 Author Report Share Posted May 3, 2003 Note the KW count for this engine is closer to 250 (and 300 with very minor mods), the 206 is the Japanese car industry self-imposed maximum that is about to go.... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Azat Posted May 3, 2003 Report Share Posted May 3, 2003 Juggs, i actually drove this car recently http://www.freshalloy.com/site/cars/infiniti/2003/g35/coupe/photos/photos_001.jpg http://www.freshalloy.com/site/cars/infiniti/2003/g35/coupe/photos/photos_002.jpg It is based on the Nissan Skyline. I think it is a the car that I am going to buy next. it is just a wonderful car and the price is not ridiculous. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Accelerated Posted May 3, 2003 Author Report Share Posted May 3, 2003 Yes Azat, but it looks closer to the 350Z, no? Also the next 'Nissan Skyline GTR', the R35, going into production in 2005, will not be based on the just released Skyline, it will be purelly a performance weapon, hence Nissan has dropped the 'skyline' from its name to just Nissan GTR. Clarification: Previously the Skyline coupes were just two door versions of the sedans, on the outside anyway. Now the replacement for the Skyline GTR will NOT be based on the sedans and will be simply known as the GTR Hope the above made sense to you Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Accelerated Posted May 12, 2003 Author Report Share Posted May 12, 2003 (edited) http://rotarynews.com/images/fullsize/MazdaSpeedRX-8LG.jpg RX-8 lookin better and better! More pics here. I dont like the rear styling of this car, its a little too 'heavy'. Edited May 12, 2003 by Accelerated Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MosJan Posted May 13, 2003 Report Share Posted May 13, 2003 http://www.rockcrawler.com/features/newsshorts/03january/fj_cruiser6.jpg Toyota unveiled the FJ Cruiser concept sport utility vehicle (SUV) at a press conference today at the 2003 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS). The FJ Cruiser concept was initiated and developed jointly by Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., and Calty Design Research, Toyota's North American design center in Newport Beach, Calif. The FJ Cruiser was developed as a basic, capable and affordable off-roader aimed to explore new possibilities for a next-generation SUV aimed specifically at young buyers with active outdoor lifestyles. "The FJ Cruiser is a thoroughly modern concept vehicle chiseled from nearly a half-century tradition of rugged performance provided by the legendary FJ 40, the original 4Runner and 4x4 compact pickups," said Jim Press, executive vice president and COO for Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc. "The FJ Cruiser concept effectively connects two growing markets in the United States…the light truck segment and the emerging youth market." "The FJ Cruiser takes on an authentic functional form, yet adopts several styling cues from the original FJ," said Jin Kim, the FJ Cruiser’s 25-year-old exterior designer. "Some of these cues are notable on the front end by its wide and narrow grille, round headlights, and offset combination lamps. Additional inspiration can be found through its upright windshield and two-tone cap roof. Traits are also noticeable in the rear with wrapping rear corner windows. The modern shape of the FJ Cruiser is woven into a compact package. Its proportionately long wheelbase and wide track produce enhanced stability and a powerful stance." Utility features include spotlights on both outside mirrors, an asymmetrical front spotlight, and a front-end towing winch. The rear glass panel is a two-piece unit that retracts into the roof and the rear hatch for easy access to the rear cargo area. Easy rear passenger entry into the two-door SUV is achieved with rear access doors. Power is supplied by a 3.4-liter V6 engine equipped with a Toyota Racing Development (TRD) supercharger that creates 250-horsepower. The engine is paired with a four-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel-drive with low range. The FJ Cruiser rides on a modified Tacoma pickup platform and is equipped with rear coil-over long travel suspension, 20-inch wheels and 33-inch tires, and a TRD cat-back exhaust. Calty designer William Chergosky extended the rugged and straightforward theme to the interior. "The cabin is designed specifically for basic functionality and flexible utility," said Chergosky. "The structural beam instrument panel has a sophisticated, handcrafted appearance. The faceplate with round inset instrumentation communicates precision youth market," said Press. "The FJ Cruiser is a thoughtful approach to versatility that allows the customer to decide how the vehicle fits into their active lifestyles." All front and rear seats fold completely flat creating ample cargo space and maximum usability. With no gaps and a durable floor covering, the FJ Cruiser can be converted into a utility deck large enough for two people in their sleeping bags. "It is important for Toyota to raise the emotional pulse of the emerging youth market," said Press. "The FJ Cruiser is a thoughtful approach to versatility that allows the customer to decide how the vehicle fits into their active lifestyles." TOYOTA FJ CRUISER CONCEPT SPECIFICATIONS Millimeters InchesWheelbase 2700 106.3Overall Length 4340 170.9Overall Height 1828 72.0Overall Width 1920 75.6 Tires...33 X 12.50 R20 inches http://www.rockcrawler.com/features/newsshorts/03january/fj_cruiser15_550.jpg http://www.rockcrawler.com/features/newsshorts/03january/fj_cruiser3_550.jpg http://www.rockcrawler.com/features/newsshorts/03february/toyota_fj1.jpg Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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