1979 Camaro Z28 / 2010 Camaro SS

If you would try to plan, it would not work. This week is perhaps Camaro week, we have a 2010 Camaro SS that we are reviewing, SEMA is featuring numerous Camaro's, and 31 years ago this 1979 Z28 was being built in Norwood.

Must be a Camaro thing! The 2010 is from GM its our tester for the review, the 1979 is owned by "The Colonel" since it was new, its a one owner car with 30,000 original kilometers, with the "patina" of an original car.

We thought that a side by side comparison would be unique, interesting, and informative. 

     Yes...the 2010 is a bit "bigger" than the 1979

Look how wheels and tires have evolved the 2010 has 20 inch painted alloys, the 1979 has 15 inch American Racing wheel. Both have staggered wheels 20x8 and 20x9 / 15x7 and 15x8.

 

Rear 3/4 view of the 1979

From the Front the "bigness" of the 2010 is obvious.

From the rear.....

From the side...

 

The interior of the 1979, at the time cloth seats were preferable to vinyl, leather was not available. This is the Custom Cloth Interior. The shifter for the 4 Speed was quite obvious. Its a Momo steering wheel.

  

Interior of the 2010, notice the power seat, leather, the shifter is less obvious, and plastic technology has constantly progressed in the past 31 years. 

    

The venerable 350 cu.in. "small block" this one is an LM1. In 1979 this engine was rated at 175 HP at 4,000 RPM and 270 lb.ft. of Torque at 2,400 RPM with an 8.2:1 compression ratio. Those numbers are not exciting today, and were not exciting in 1979.

The engine looks factory stock with the except for the finned magnesium valve covers, the holes on the air cleaner cover, after many years the foam sealing the air cleaner to the hood deteriorated, its a functional hood scoop/cold air package.

The engine has an L82 camshaft, roller timing chain, stainlees steel head gaskets, high pressure oil pump, its looks factory original and performs better than factory stock. The engine performs up to 5,500 RPM compared to the low 4,000 RPM when it came from the factory. Makes an appreciable difference in the performance of the car. In addition to what would be called a "cat back" exhaust system today. This car is louder, and raspier than the 2010.

Have you noticed....there is no Air Conditioning!

  

This is the LS3, still a small block rated at 426 HP at 5,900 RPM with 420 lb.ft. of Torque at 4,200 RPM with a 10.7:1 compression ratio. This engine is all aluminum, roller camshaft, roller rockers, heads that flow a ton of air. Perhaps its the ultimate "small block".  

  

Same as many years ago, you can put a "hot cam" from GM in this engine to raise the power. The specifications make a small block Chevy "aficionado" drool. Do we have to tell you that this car is much faster than the 1979. 

Some tidbits to consider.

• The 1979 has a 4 Speed with a 1st gear ratio of 2.64:1 and a rear axle ratio of 3.73 for a total reduction of 9.85....yes its got a positraction. 240 lb.ft. of Torque
• The 2010 has a 6 speed with a 1st gear ratio of 3.01:1 and a rear axle ratio of 3.45 for a total reduction of 10.4...its got a positraction. 420 lb.ft. of torque.
• As they say you do the math.
• The 4 speed in the 1979 is comparable to 4th in the 2010, the 2010 is a superb highway cruiser compared to the older car.
• The 1979 has discs in front, drums in the rear, the 2010 has Brembos...need we say more as to which car stops better.
• The 1979 has a solid rear axle with leaf springs, the 2010 has an independent rear axle with coil springs....there is no comparison.
• The 1979 is a wonderful nostalgia car with technology similar to a 1969, in reality what technology, there are hardly any electronics, still a carburator, the 1979 was on the waning days of "old school" before the application of technology/electronics.
• The 2010 is a 1969 or a 1979 with the application of technology, electronics, and the normal evolution of 40 years or 30 years.
• The 1979 was good value and resonable performance for the day. It was and still is a fun car that is very enjoyable.
• The 2010 is good value with an exceptional performance envelope, that is fun and satisfying.
• The 1979 has no safety features except for seat belts, side beams in the doors, collapsing steering column.
• The 2010 is bristling with the latest safety features, air bags, ABS brakes, brakes assist, traction control, stability program.
• On a good run the 2010 works the rear tires/suspension harder and longer (up to 4th) than the 1979 (up to 3rd).
• The feel of the clutch is similar although the 1979 is mechanical (linkage) the 2010 is hydraulic, the feel of the clutch is close too.
• Tremec / Borg Warner almost the same with the exception that one is a 4 speed the other a 6 speed, you hear the synchronizer the shifter/shift linkage feel is again similar.
• The engine in the 1979 revs up quickly, and pulls strong to 5,500 RPM it tapers off after 5,500.
• The engine in the 2010 revs up instantly, and pulls very strong to 6,000 RPM.

Have the reasons or rationale for acquiring a Camaro with a level of performance changed?  Not at all, human nature is still the same.

2010 Kia Forte - The Koup de Koup

2010 Kia Forte Koup 2.4L SX

Racing Red with Black Leather

2.4L 4 cyl 173 HP with 6 speed manual transmission

The Koup photo gallery and slide show.

The Koup is an appealing car, with the right styling elements and cues, especially in Racing Red with the black details in the front and rear bumper. The car looks good, often attracts a second glance with an inquisitive "what is it look?".

Its an understatement to say that the Forte line, Koup and Sedan have great styling and design, with a strong street presence, especially for compact cars. Although styling is personal, the majority find these cars "good looking"...we do too!

This tester is the top of the line SX version which starts at $21,495. the only available option is the automatic transmission. Its strong value which is one of Kia's distinguishing brand attributes.

The leather seats with the contrasting red stitching are pleasant. The same stitching continues on the leather wrapped steering...a nice touch. The fit and finish is excellent for the price point, the heated seats are included in the SX package.

This version even has automatic climate control, by now you know that we are strong proponents of automatic climate control with its set it and forget it convenience.

As usual all the safety features that you expect are present, be it ABS, Traction Control, Electronic Stability, in addition to 6 air bags.

The sound system is good with 6 speakers, CD, Sirius satellite, Bluetooth, and MP3 connectivity. By now most folks have their favorite satellite radio channels, especially that many listen to satellite radio on their computers. Needless to say, satellite radio is expected in a car.

A red coupe, with all the styling cues, including a diffuser in the rear bumper, 17 inch wheels, 300 mm front discs, a manual transmission, sport pedals, left foot rest. Yes...you need to see what it can do. Keeping in mind the price point, and its a FWD car with a torsion rear axle, the car is impressive, you are often saying to yourself "I'm doing this in a Kia!".

The steering has good on centre feel, the brakes are very good, the shifter is good for a FWD application, the suspension is a little hard but good within the limits of a torsion rear axle. You can get spirited with the car, especially if you stay within the 2 to 4th gear range on a tight windy road, the car is a lot of fun, and easy to downshift or upshift when you are busy with steering, brakes, picking an apex, powering out.

Did we forget to mention...the engine has a pleasing  sound, performs well in the upper ranges, could use a bit more torque at lower RPM's. Easily turns on the traction control, and generates some torque steer if you get very spirited.

Both this Koup, and the Sedan are great highway cruisers doing 120 kph at 2,500 RPM.

The fuel economy ratings are 6.2L highway and 9.2L per 100 kms city.

The Dare to Compare for the Koup.

The features and specifications, are impressive. By now you know the 5-5-5 warranty.

You can configure the Koup here, at this time the lease rate for 36 months is 3.9% with a very realistic 44% residual.

For the price point its a remarkable car.

Are you considering a compact coupe? Make it a point to experience the Koup, it has good performance, exceptional features, cool styling, and strong value.

2009 Nissan Versa - More than you Think

2009 Nissan Versa 1.6 Sedan

Magnetic Grey with Charcoal Cloth Interior

1.6 L 4 cyl. 107 HP with 4 Speed Automatic.

The Versa Photo Gallery.

The Versa Sedan has a starting MSRP of $ 12,498. accompanied by "light" specifications it does create a moment of pause. The styling is an acquired taste, the plastic hubcaps reinforce the initial misgivings that started with the price.

You sit in the car, suddenly its not so bad, the interior is good for the base price, the seats are comfortable, the rear seat leg room is surprising it comfortably accommodates adults. Our tester had a few options, the automatic transmission (4 speed), and the Value Option Package which includes the air conditioner for a total price of $ 15,298.

Still skeptical since its a 1.6L with only 107 HP coupled to a 4 speed automatic transmission, the performance is surprising even with 4 adults in the car. Yes...we did it on purpose to try it out with 4 adults. 

How does it drive? Surprisingly well for a compact sedan at a very competitive price, better than some other offerings in the compact sedan segment.

We have to admit, it was a pessimistic start with the Versa which developed into a "this is a good car for the price and market segment" experience...yes the hatchback has better street presence, but the London Taxi similarity of the rear quarter panel is endearing with the Versa Sedan.

Reviewing the specifications for the sedan, you will notice that 6 air bags are standard, and ABS is an option, our tester did not have ABS...yes we checked to be certain. Which led to the question. Do most folks know how to use ABS "to steer themselves out of harms way"? 

This is the configurator for the Versa.

The fuel economy rating with the automatic is 5.9L Highway and 7.8L per 100 kms City.

The lease rate for a 36 month lease is 5.9% with a realistic 44% residual value. You can easily calculate your own with the payment calculator.

If you are considering a compact sedan make it a point to experience the Versa, the car offers more than you think. 

2010 Fusion Hybrid - The Electric Fusion

2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid

Ice Blue Metallic with Charcoal Cloth interior.

Gasoline: 2.5L 4cyl Atkinson Cycle......155 HP...............135 lb./ft. w/eCVT 

Electric: AC Synchronous.......................36 HP...............166 lb./ft. 

Total:..................................................191 HP..............301 lb./ft.

The Fusion Hybrid photo gallery.

Is it fair to say that during the past week there was electricity in the air, especially at the Frankfurt Auto Show. Its fitting that we are doing a review of the Fusion Hybrid to uphold the electric trend.

The Fusion is an good mid size sedan in an environment of good sedans, no manufacturer is a slouch when it come to mid size sedans. What is unique to the Fusion and Ford is the Sync system, in addition our tester had the Blind Spot Information System, Navigation, Reverse Camera, and Sony branded sound system. 

In addition all the safety features that you expect in a modern mid size sedan, from 6 air bags, ABS, traction control, electronic stability are present.

A few months ago we did a review of the Fusion Sport, you can find it here. Although not a Sport, the Hybrid version has good street presence, with appealing styling. 

You surely want to know what is different about the hybrid version.

The Fusion Hybrid is a parallel hybrid completely seamless in operation, the transfer between the gasoline and electric motor is imperceptible, its impressive. Some hybrids have a bit of a "clunk" when transferring from one mode to the other. The Fusion is uncanny in how smooth, and seamless the transition between the modes.

The emphasis is on economy, the reason for the Atkinson cycle gasoline engine, lower voltage (275V) electric motor. These characteristics generate good low, and mid range performance, while optimising economy, and the seamless transition of the hybrid system. 

The Smartgauge with the economy leaves is a thing of beauty that should be a "must" on every hybrid. Its well thought out, intuitive, informative, to communicate the pertinent hybrid information.

Yes..it will go in EV (Electric Vehicle) mode up to 75 kph...its impressive, and totally cool.

There is an accepted standard to rate gasoline engines with horsepower and torque, sadly there is no accepted standard to rate electric motors in hybrids. Ford rates its motor at 106 HP with a total rating of 191 HP, which leads us to conclude that the electric motor has 36 HP, there is no official torque rating for the motor, we did some sleuthing and discovered 166 lb./ft. which is an unofficial figure (not from Ford). 

We find that its much easier to understand and compare hybrids when there are separate horsepower and torque ratings for the gasoline, and electric motor, as well as voltage for the electric motor. Hybrids are not created equal, some are more hybrids than other, some have more economy than others, some have more performance.

The Fusion is a well thought out, engineered hybrid with the VSC (Vehicle System Controller) ensuring that the operation is totally seamless.

How does it drive?

First its a Fusion, and yes its a good car, its solid, well finished, with good attention to details. The Sync technology interface is leading edge.

The performance sweet spot is in the low to mid range spectrum, since its primarily engineered with a strong focus on economy. The regenerative braking is quiet, with a slight humming sound from the electric motor. What is totally cool is gaining momentum with the gasoline/electric motor and then going into EV mode at 70 kph and staying in EV mode for good distances.

The fuel economy rating is 4.6 L city and 5.4 L per 100 kms highway. 

The specifications of the Fusion Hybrid.

The warranty is 36mth /60,000 kms the powertrain is 60 mths /100,000 kms the hybrid system is 96 mths /160,000 kms.

If you are considering an hybrid mid size sedan, we urge you to compare the offerings from the various manufacturers. You owe it to yourself to experience the Fusion Hybrid, its smooth, seamless, will do 70 kph in EV mode, yes....its a cool hybrid.

2010 Kia Forte - Stylish Value

2010 Kia Forte EX

Metal Bronze with Black Cloth Interior

2.0L 4 cyl 156 HP / 144 lb.ft with 4 speed Automatic

The Forte EX Photo Gallery.

The compact sedan segment is crowded, competitive, with a few well established competitors that are the perennial front runners of this market...need we mention names? 

Its refreshing to see a stylish new entry with striking street presence, especially if its from Kia.

The 2010 Kia Forte is a cool compact sedan with all the features that one usually expects from a larger, pricier car, its fair to say...the Forte comes with a strong content of equipment and features. You want 4 wheel disc brakes they are there, Bluetooth, MP3, heated seats, heated exterior mirrors, ABS is there, Electronic Stability, Traction Control is there too. The list of standard equipment is extensive and impressive for a car in this segment. 

Yes...you will be pleasantly surprised with the standard features, and the compelling value offred by the 2010 Forte.

Take a moment to review the Kia "Dare to Compare" fact sheet on the Forte.

The fit and finish of the entire car is excellent for this price point. The interior is roomy, the choice of materials is very good, accompanied by comfortable and supportive seats. The trunk is huge, with the fold down rear seat becomes cavernous. The sound system is pleasant, the standard heated seats are an appreciated feature, the comprehensive steering controls are a pleasant surprise.

How does it drive? 

Considering that its a compact sedan, we were pleasantly surprised that it cruises comfortably at highway speeds at slightly over 2,500 RPM. On our usual stretch of broken pavement the car is solid, feels secure with no rattles.

The brakes are excellent, the steering from our perspective could use a more pronounced on centre feel. Acceleration is acceptable considering the 4 speed automatic. The Forte is a joy in city driving, and navigating shopping mall parking lots, the street presence attracts a second glance from many onlookers.

Fuel economy ratings are 5.8 highway and 8.1 L/100 km city, the green ECO light is a constant reminder to when you are in the ideal fuel economy mode. 

The features and speciafications are here.

The Kia 5-5-5 Total Care Ownership Coverage is phenomenal, and a strong complement to the value proposition.

The configurator is easy to use, the rate for a 36 month lease at this time is 1.9% with a 50% residual value.

Are you considering a compact sedan, you will look at the usual favorites, its normal. Do make it a point to experience the Kia Forte, its got exceptional styling, and strong value.