In the Oakland Press this morning, a 62 year old Independence Township man almost killed himself in glorious drunk fashion.
After consuming "unknown quantities of alcohol", he strapped on a motorcycle muffler which he had stuffed full of gunpowder, match-heads, and gasoline. He also put on a motorcycle helmet and a cape. Then he had a friend light his fuse, and started down the hill on a plastic orange sled, no doubt after saying something like "Hey guys! Watch this!"
It did not end well. But, he didn't quite make it onto the Darwin Awards--he's in the hospital.
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Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Top Luxury Cars - The Land Rover Defender Expedition
I have to confess to something. I'm a sucker for the old Land Rover series. Call it an innate countryside reaction (rural Yorkshire born and bred, quite feeble arms thank you), but there's something compelling about having a car that you can drive up a dirt track to rescue a stuck sheep without having to worry about whether the exhaust will fall off at the next bump.
I've tinkered with the guts of a Series IIA that is my senior by a decade, like an oil-covered Frankenstein stitching in the very heart of the monster. A classic Land Rover looks like a car that you can service yourself with nothing more than a wrench and hammer, and maybe a good pair of steel-toed boots for the inevitable frustrated kick that follows dropping a nut in the depths of the bonnet.
So it's with more than a little suspicion that I approached my next potential Landy purchase, because the more modern Land Rovers do not look as if they would take so kindly to an amateur mechanic wandering into his garage wielding a spanner and a copy of the Haynes manual. As ever I wanted a used Land Rover, both for the lower price and feeling that it had already been broken in to some extent. As I have already experienced the delights of bouncing about on country lanes in a tatty old Defender I decided to opt for a test-drive in the updated version.
With the vast range of models and specs on offer it may be a little daunting to the first time buyer. However don't be overwhelmed by the choices, because visiting a good specialist used Land Rover dealership means that you will be able to talk through your requirements with experienced sales staff who can advise on the model that best suits your needs. This applies to any used vehicle, and a specialist dealership should be your first port of call to avoid disappointedly kicking the tyres of a rust bucket that looks nothing like the "good as new, one careful lady owner" car that you were expecting.
As I was only borrowing this particular used Land Rover Defender for a few hours, I thought it prudent to avoid any off-road adventures. However travelling the back roads made it clear that the advances in technology have only served to enhance the performance of the Defender. I barely felt a jolt as I mounted the grass at the side of a single-lane country road in order to let another driver pass. And whilst I may love the classic models, one can't exactly pretend that they provide the most comfortable of rides over rougher terrain. The improved suspension of the updated Defender meant that even a vicious-looking pothole evoked merely a shrug from the vehicle.
Land Rover have a solid reputation built upon durability, and with their development of easy handling and ride comfort it's not hard to see why this iconic brand has endured even as local agriculture has sadly waned. I felt slightly treacherous in my enjoyment of the journey in the Defender, but there's no reason why a classic design has to mean a sore posterior.
All too soon I found myself heading back towards the dealership, wondering whether the Series IIA would still provide the same fulfillment now that I knew what I had been missing. Whilst I would be more inclined to leave the more intricate servicing of the newer used Land Rover models to the professionals, I'm sure that given time I'll be rooting around under the bonnet for the smaller tasks that can be handled by a competent home mechanic.
I admit that I was fully won over, and signed on the dotted line with only the briefest moment of hesitation as I wondered whether the Series IIA would throw some kind of sulk.
For anyone looking for a vehicle that combines off-road capabilities with on-road comfort, a used Land Rover could very well prove to be the ideal choice. If you get a chance to test it out on roads that offer slightly more challenge than the A1, you'll be able to get a feel for whether that particular model will be the one to take you up hill and down dale with the minimum of fuss.
I've tinkered with the guts of a Series IIA that is my senior by a decade, like an oil-covered Frankenstein stitching in the very heart of the monster. A classic Land Rover looks like a car that you can service yourself with nothing more than a wrench and hammer, and maybe a good pair of steel-toed boots for the inevitable frustrated kick that follows dropping a nut in the depths of the bonnet.
So it's with more than a little suspicion that I approached my next potential Landy purchase, because the more modern Land Rovers do not look as if they would take so kindly to an amateur mechanic wandering into his garage wielding a spanner and a copy of the Haynes manual. As ever I wanted a used Land Rover, both for the lower price and feeling that it had already been broken in to some extent. As I have already experienced the delights of bouncing about on country lanes in a tatty old Defender I decided to opt for a test-drive in the updated version.
With the vast range of models and specs on offer it may be a little daunting to the first time buyer. However don't be overwhelmed by the choices, because visiting a good specialist used Land Rover dealership means that you will be able to talk through your requirements with experienced sales staff who can advise on the model that best suits your needs. This applies to any used vehicle, and a specialist dealership should be your first port of call to avoid disappointedly kicking the tyres of a rust bucket that looks nothing like the "good as new, one careful lady owner" car that you were expecting.
As I was only borrowing this particular used Land Rover Defender for a few hours, I thought it prudent to avoid any off-road adventures. However travelling the back roads made it clear that the advances in technology have only served to enhance the performance of the Defender. I barely felt a jolt as I mounted the grass at the side of a single-lane country road in order to let another driver pass. And whilst I may love the classic models, one can't exactly pretend that they provide the most comfortable of rides over rougher terrain. The improved suspension of the updated Defender meant that even a vicious-looking pothole evoked merely a shrug from the vehicle.
Land Rover have a solid reputation built upon durability, and with their development of easy handling and ride comfort it's not hard to see why this iconic brand has endured even as local agriculture has sadly waned. I felt slightly treacherous in my enjoyment of the journey in the Defender, but there's no reason why a classic design has to mean a sore posterior.
All too soon I found myself heading back towards the dealership, wondering whether the Series IIA would still provide the same fulfillment now that I knew what I had been missing. Whilst I would be more inclined to leave the more intricate servicing of the newer used Land Rover models to the professionals, I'm sure that given time I'll be rooting around under the bonnet for the smaller tasks that can be handled by a competent home mechanic.
I admit that I was fully won over, and signed on the dotted line with only the briefest moment of hesitation as I wondered whether the Series IIA would throw some kind of sulk.
For anyone looking for a vehicle that combines off-road capabilities with on-road comfort, a used Land Rover could very well prove to be the ideal choice. If you get a chance to test it out on roads that offer slightly more challenge than the A1, you'll be able to get a feel for whether that particular model will be the one to take you up hill and down dale with the minimum of fuss.
Sir Cherrylton risked upsetting his Series IIA by writing about a used Land Rover Defender
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sir_Cherrylton
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sir_Cherrylton
Top Luxury Cars - The Hyundai i10 Era
Hyundai i 10 Era features sports like vibrant look with aerodynamic curves. The exteriors look classic with large clear eyed headlamps, attractive front grills and flowing contours. Also, you can feel the difference with the sun roof with one opening on long joyful journeys. You can rest assured that Hyundai i 10 Era does not have any major issues; but like Hyundai i 10, even this car has overwhelming beige interior, which can really put you off once you enter the car.
Speed up along the roads. The all new Hyundai i 10 Era features a host of exterior, interior, comfort and safety features that sets the pace for the new generation.
Key Features Hyundai i 10 Era encloses 1.1L four cylinder inline ride engine which takes this car to an all together different league. Fuel economy and great engine life are the key features of this engine. It seems that the engine was made with a view to contribute to the environmental protection as its NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) levels are all time low. Even the exhaust emissions are low. Speaking of comfort, its suspension does a good job on rough roads. Also, you will feel a sense of security as you drive this car. Dual air bags, seatbelt pre-tensioned, anti braking set are all fitted to make your driving more safe and reliable.
Design Hyundai i 10 Era features sports like vibrant look with aerodynamic curves. The exteriors look classic with large clear eyed headlamps, attractive front grills and flowing contours. Also, you can feel the difference with the sun roof with one opening on long joyful journeys. The interiors are equally invigorating. Feel the difference in driving pleasure with i-shift, and chill yourself to the bone with the refined rotary type air-conditioning that keeps you cool even in the hottest summers. The silence of its operation will also allow you to enjoy the fine audio system without any disturbance. The interiors are excellently designed with cockpit style feel and the snazziest of controls right at your command. Additionally, the dual tone beige interiors lend a harmonious and tranquil feeling. The front seat is long and accommodates taller people comfortably by integrating the back rest and the head rest as one single unit.
Cons You can rest assured that Hyundai i 10 Era does not have any major issues; but like Hyundai i 10, even this car has overwhelming beige interior, which can really put you off once you enter the car.
Conclusion To cut it short, Hyundai i 10 Era is supremely perfect with no flaws whatsoever; at least, not on the performance and comfort front. This car also puts up a safety front par excellence.
Speed up along the roads. The all new Hyundai i 10 Era features a host of exterior, interior, comfort and safety features that sets the pace for the new generation.
Key Features Hyundai i 10 Era encloses 1.1L four cylinder inline ride engine which takes this car to an all together different league. Fuel economy and great engine life are the key features of this engine. It seems that the engine was made with a view to contribute to the environmental protection as its NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) levels are all time low. Even the exhaust emissions are low. Speaking of comfort, its suspension does a good job on rough roads. Also, you will feel a sense of security as you drive this car. Dual air bags, seatbelt pre-tensioned, anti braking set are all fitted to make your driving more safe and reliable.
Design Hyundai i 10 Era features sports like vibrant look with aerodynamic curves. The exteriors look classic with large clear eyed headlamps, attractive front grills and flowing contours. Also, you can feel the difference with the sun roof with one opening on long joyful journeys. The interiors are equally invigorating. Feel the difference in driving pleasure with i-shift, and chill yourself to the bone with the refined rotary type air-conditioning that keeps you cool even in the hottest summers. The silence of its operation will also allow you to enjoy the fine audio system without any disturbance. The interiors are excellently designed with cockpit style feel and the snazziest of controls right at your command. Additionally, the dual tone beige interiors lend a harmonious and tranquil feeling. The front seat is long and accommodates taller people comfortably by integrating the back rest and the head rest as one single unit.
Cons You can rest assured that Hyundai i 10 Era does not have any major issues; but like Hyundai i 10, even this car has overwhelming beige interior, which can really put you off once you enter the car.
Conclusion To cut it short, Hyundai i 10 Era is supremely perfect with no flaws whatsoever; at least, not on the performance and comfort front. This car also puts up a safety front par excellence.
About the Author
Albert Cain is a well known writer. He has written many articles on, cars, Automobiles, bikes, health care, scooter, speaker and so on.
Top Luxury Cars - The New Hyundai Santro Xing
Hyundai Santro Xing is one car that will simply capture your imagination with its outstanding performance - a trademark of Hyundai Company. Hyundai Santro Xing is truly high performing. This small size car is capable of providing maximum power and also good mileage. It is fully backed by an efficient standard engine, which does not give you any wear and tear problem.
Experience the zing. Hyundai Santro Xing is one car that will simply capture your imagination with its outstanding performance - a trademark of Hyundai Company. This small size car will also give you a true home like convenience with its feature-rich interior.
Key Features Hyundai Santro Xing is truly high performing. This small size car is capable of providing maximum power and also good mileage. It is fully backed by an efficient standard engine, which does not give you any wear and tear problem. Other features like responsive gear shift, light clutch and struts McPherson suspension add further value to this small size car. There are no antilock brakes, yet the car still responds well while weaving in and out of traffic. Staying on safety measures, this car also has child-safety rear door locks, day and night inside rear view mirror and RHD controls which will make your driving more safe and joyful.
Design Hyundai Santro Xing has a very compact sporty look with a space saving design. Its styling can be called as tallboy styling as it facilitates easy driving for tall persons. A critical analysis of the interiors did not bring out any glitches as such. The interior is a spacious car for a family and has more head and leg room space. The seats are comfortably designed and fitted with the best fabrics instead of vinyl. Two cup holders between the two seats in the front and the map packet and a glove compartment in the left are also fitted in to give you convenience and comfort while driving.
Cons Hyundai Santro Xing car does show high vibration problem in higher gear. Ground clearance of this car is another let down. Otherwise, this car is a perfect small size car.
Conclusion It is all you have ever wanted in a small car. High performance coupled with spacious and comforting interior, this small size car definitely deserves admiration.
Experience the zing. Hyundai Santro Xing is one car that will simply capture your imagination with its outstanding performance - a trademark of Hyundai Company. This small size car will also give you a true home like convenience with its feature-rich interior.
Key Features Hyundai Santro Xing is truly high performing. This small size car is capable of providing maximum power and also good mileage. It is fully backed by an efficient standard engine, which does not give you any wear and tear problem. Other features like responsive gear shift, light clutch and struts McPherson suspension add further value to this small size car. There are no antilock brakes, yet the car still responds well while weaving in and out of traffic. Staying on safety measures, this car also has child-safety rear door locks, day and night inside rear view mirror and RHD controls which will make your driving more safe and joyful.
Design Hyundai Santro Xing has a very compact sporty look with a space saving design. Its styling can be called as tallboy styling as it facilitates easy driving for tall persons. A critical analysis of the interiors did not bring out any glitches as such. The interior is a spacious car for a family and has more head and leg room space. The seats are comfortably designed and fitted with the best fabrics instead of vinyl. Two cup holders between the two seats in the front and the map packet and a glove compartment in the left are also fitted in to give you convenience and comfort while driving.
Cons Hyundai Santro Xing car does show high vibration problem in higher gear. Ground clearance of this car is another let down. Otherwise, this car is a perfect small size car.
Conclusion It is all you have ever wanted in a small car. High performance coupled with spacious and comforting interior, this small size car definitely deserves admiration.
About the Author
Albert Cain is a well known writer. He has written many articles on, Cars, bikes, scooter, Maruti Suzuki, speaker and so on.
Greats Modern Design Infiniti Essence Concept Car
Luxury Design Infiniti Essence Concept CarInfiniti Essence is a concept which designed to celebrates 20 year existence of the brand. Infiniti Essence concept has been premiered in Geneva Motor Show and features rear-wheel drive coupe, two-seater, and a front engine.
Beauty Design Infiniti Essence Concept Car Auto CarWhile powered by a hybrid system, Infiniti Essence concept may develops 600PS (592bhp). Infiniti Essence also features 3.7-litre V6 gasoline engine that develops 440PS (434bhp) as it has been fitted with twin turbochargers.
Cool Design Infiniti Essence Concept Car in Front
Amazing Modern Design Infiniti Essence Concept Car in Back Body
Nice Design Design Infiniti Essence Concept Car
Modern Design Design Infiniti Essence Concept Car in Beside
New Modern Design Design Infiniti Essence Concept CarInfiniti Essence also showcases a new type of electric motor, called a 3D Motor, that takes the power output up by 160PS (158bhp). The electric motor is particularly slim, disc-shaped and offers twice the torque of a conventional unit.
Greats Modern Design Infiniti Essence Concept Car
Luxury Design Infiniti Essence Concept CarInfiniti Essence is a concept which designed to celebrates 20 year existence of the brand. Infiniti Essence concept has been premiered in Geneva Motor Show and features rear-wheel drive coupe, two-seater, and a front engine.
Beauty Design Infiniti Essence Concept Car Auto CarWhile powered by a hybrid system, Infiniti Essence concept may develops 600PS (592bhp). Infiniti Essence also features 3.7-litre V6 gasoline engine that develops 440PS (434bhp) as it has been fitted with twin turbochargers.
Cool Design Infiniti Essence Concept Car in FrontAmazing Modern Design Infiniti Essence Concept Car in Back BodyNice Design Design Infiniti Essence Concept CarModern Design Design Infiniti Essence Concept Car in BesideNew Modern Design Design Infiniti Essence Concept CarInfiniti Essence also showcases a new type of electric motor, called a 3D Motor, that takes the power output up by 160PS (158bhp). The electric motor is particularly slim, disc-shaped and offers twice the torque of a conventional unit.
Massa fastest driver in tests in Valencia
Valencia, 1st February 2010 – Felipe Massa was the fastest driver on the track on the first day of testing at the Cheste circuit, just outside Valencia. The Brazilian drove the fastest lap in the last minutes of the session, while he had been leading the time sheet with his lap times before. The 1.12.574 taken by Massa for his fastest lap today can’t be judged in absolute terms regarding the competitors, because this year, understanding the fuel loads in the cars, is more difficult than ever. Although it has to be said that this result is a good prelude for the F10 on the day of its debut.
"I’m happy about how it went today,” Felipe said at the end of the test session. “We worked very well and drove many kilometres without any problems. The first impression of the car is really positive: it is easier to drive compared to the F60, we can work better on the set up and last but not least there’s much more grip, which makes it much more pleasant to drive.
Naturally it’s still very early, but it’s a good start. The fastest lap? That doesn’t mean anything, but it’s always good being in the lead! I’m also satisfied with myself. It’s great being back on the track, together with all the others and to see that nothing has changed. I drove over 100 laps and I could have done another 100 from the physical and mental point of view.”
Obviously the first meeting between a driver, who has always been part of the Ferrari family and one who has taken a different road, attracted lots of interest. “I haven’t spoken to Michael yet, but we said hello when I passed him towards the end of the day. It’s very good for Formula 1 that he’s back. It’s strange seeing him with a red helmet in a grey car."
Two where today’s main technical issues: the new tyres and the cars’ behaviour with lots of petrol on board. Felipe said: "I tried the soft compound a lot today and I really liked it, but it’s really too early to draw a conclusion: we have to wait and see how it works with higher temperatures to see the wear. We also drove with different fuel loads and the car was very balanced under all conditions; that’s encouraging!"
Tomorrow there is an “encore” on the same stage.
"I’m happy about how it went today,” Felipe said at the end of the test session. “We worked very well and drove many kilometres without any problems. The first impression of the car is really positive: it is easier to drive compared to the F60, we can work better on the set up and last but not least there’s much more grip, which makes it much more pleasant to drive.
Naturally it’s still very early, but it’s a good start. The fastest lap? That doesn’t mean anything, but it’s always good being in the lead! I’m also satisfied with myself. It’s great being back on the track, together with all the others and to see that nothing has changed. I drove over 100 laps and I could have done another 100 from the physical and mental point of view.”
Obviously the first meeting between a driver, who has always been part of the Ferrari family and one who has taken a different road, attracted lots of interest. “I haven’t spoken to Michael yet, but we said hello when I passed him towards the end of the day. It’s very good for Formula 1 that he’s back. It’s strange seeing him with a red helmet in a grey car."
Two where today’s main technical issues: the new tyres and the cars’ behaviour with lots of petrol on board. Felipe said: "I tried the soft compound a lot today and I really liked it, but it’s really too early to draw a conclusion: we have to wait and see how it works with higher temperatures to see the wear. We also drove with different fuel loads and the car was very balanced under all conditions; that’s encouraging!"
Tomorrow there is an “encore” on the same stage.
Source: Ferrari
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