A new era began in 1965, when the mechanically destructive Mark IV big-block was introduced by Chevrolet. This engine was actually the result of the top-secret ’63 “Mystery Motors” program and replaced Chevrolet’s previous line of W-series powerplants, including the 348 and 409. The 396-cubic-inch V8 instantly became known as the “Rat Motor,” and was […]
It’s one of the most bizarre sectors in the automotive industry. Originally devised to squeeze as much driving fun as possible out of the newly busy Japanese cities using a set of rigidly specified size and power restrictions, these little Japanese microcars have an engine capacity capped at 660cc and a maximum body size. High […]
The American muscle car was defined by its ponies. Big blocks. Street and strip bragging rights. Before muscle cars were a common sight across Detroit, automakers were putting big engines into smaller, lighter vehicles. Chevrolet was at the forefront of this push, starting with its 348ci V8 in the 1958 Impala, but really making the […]
Fatal means deadly, or capable of causing death. It is a familiar term in headlines and safety warnings about destructive incidents or hazardous materials. Words like lethal and mortal mean the same thing, but fatal might also imply something feeling like the hand of destiny and if an error leads to a fatal consequence, then […]
The sleeper enthusiast could have only dreamed of a car that looks unnoticed. European performance cars can be hit or miss with their bodywork: M-BMWs and Audis often had racing hints and big wheels, Mercedes tended to be more reserved, but they all wanted a badge to remind you they meant business. Japan was more […]
It all began with a vision that might sound crazy these days, but was pretty impressive back in 1994 to build the world’s fastest cars using a completely different approach to engineering, rather than traditions, to invent new performance solutions. Three decades later, that idea has resulted in a Swedish supercar company built on the […]
Getting from Point A to Point B in the Lone Star State is just a fact of life in Texas both in the bustling city limits and out on the open rural roads. In recent years, the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles and other lawmakers have enacted several significant policy changes that have profound impacts […]
Toyota bZ4X, Subaru Solterra batteries accused of repeatedly going dead An electric SUV from Toyota called the bZ4X and its twin from Subaru, the Solterra have been sued over claims that their auxiliary, 12 volt batteries repeatedly go dead. A federal class action lawsuit alleges the auxiliary batteries can repeatedly become discharged, leaving cars dead […]
Chevrolet Chevelle SS When the Chevelle SS was introduced in 1964, it became a serious contender in the emerging muscle car market in America. Using the 115-inch wheelbase on the A-body platform and offering uncompromising styling, formidable V8 engines and an accessible price point, the Chevelle became an icon. The Super Sport was not a […]
Every new performance car continues to push the envelope, arriving with ever more shocking power levels to put the proverbial rubber on the road. Not so long ago, the best cars hit a mere 400-500hp, which was achieved easily enough with turbo and supercharger technology, but not so much today when a Nissan GT-R or […]
