#toyota sports 800
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halmcgee · 5 months ago
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Toyota Sports 800
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heretoday-73kk · 6 months ago
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masoncarr2244 · 2 years ago
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carsonfilm · 1 year ago
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Sports 800 @ Yokohama
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japanesecarssince1947 · 1 year ago
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1963 Toyota Sports 800
My tumblr-blogs: https://www.tumblr.com/blog/germancarssince1946 & https://www.tumblr.com/blog/frenchcarssince1946 & https://www.tumblr.com/blog/englishcarssince1946 & https://www.tumblr.com/blog/italiancarssince1946 & https://www.tumblr.com/blog/japanesecarssince1947
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frenchcurious · 1 month ago
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Toyota Sports 800 1967. - source Amazing Classic Cars.
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what's your favorite silly looking car?
i answered something kinda similar a while back haha
other than those im a fan of the toyota sports 800. this is a just a little guy. lil fella
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he’s a lil goofy guy
i also think the reliant robin is a hilariously silly little guy
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silly ahh tricycle most famous for that time top gear staged one tipping over at a sharp corner bc yeah that was faked. also they’re in my favorite car game Forza Horizon and you can put training wheels on them
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diabolus1exmachina · 2 years ago
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4Stroke Rumen
Anyway, Roumen Antonov claims to have successfully completed the certification tests for his Rumen. Ranked in the "small series" category (less than 500 copies), the Rumen did not have recourse to a destructive crash test. On the other hand, pollution tests are an obligation. They were passed with flying colors thanks to the original PSA/Toyota powertrain. The Rumen has the 3 "legs" with 4 valves per cylinder developing 68 hp at 6000 rpm and 93 Nm of torque at 3600 rpm. He is in the rear central position and the car becomes a propulsion. This engine is equipped with a VVT variable valve timing which contributes to the very good performance of the engine. Its consumption of 4.6 l/100 km recorded on the Citroën C1 weighing around 800 kg will be significantly improved on the Rumen which will not exceed 600 kg on the scale. The running gear derives closely from the Peugeot 107 with a few adaptations, in particular the design of the rear axle taken from the brain of Roumen Antonov. Like everything else! Surprisingly, the front track much wider than the rear accentuates the curiosity of passers-by inevitably attracted by the Rumen.The advantage of a large series mechanics is to be able to have all the electronic fittings that go with it. Thus the Rumen offers ABS (for the record, R.Antonov mocks knowing that a Spyker of more than 200,000 euros is not equipped with it!) But also the electronic brake force distribution EBS. Anyway, with 4 disc brakes and only 600 kg, the car will never be faulted in this area. As on the trio of original Franco-Japanese city cars, the 5-speed manual gearbox will be available.
The beige leather interior, embellished with chrome, aluminum and wood is a model of visual warmth. The large “old era” wooden steering wheel makes you unconsciously hold it at 8:20. It's automotive imagery from the 1930s to 1950s stuck in a corner of your cortex that suddenly resurfaces. The interior space equivalent to that of an Audi A3 does not yet have the exemplary finish of a production model, but nothing is really open to criticism. You will just be criticized for ergonomics to be refined to prevent the right knee from bumping into the gear lever in curves on the left and black stalks which denote a little in this warm universe.
The body made of polyester inserted in a tubular frame does not yet meet the final specifications and the soundproofing has not yet been the subject of a study. The small 3-cylinder rests in a box covered in red leather behind the seats. Not enough for it to be forgotten or appreciated. Either it will be necessary to work on the sound to "ennoble it", or it will have to be completely soundproofed.
Even if an option can increase the power to almost 110 hp thanks to a compressor, the Rumen should not be considered as a sports car but as a Grand Touring in miniature. The suspension settings adopted are very flexible and offer quite surprising comfort on the rutted portions. The reduced weight of the machine also prevents it from "lying down" in curves, which in the end is not far from being the perfect compromise.
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pal1ndrom3 · 2 years ago
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Toyota sports 800
Definitely one of my favorite car. 
When a Toyota Publica 800 is turned into a lightweight sports car. 
Still modern today.
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usedcarmania · 2 years ago
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2021 Ford Ranger Comprehensive Review
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Ford is well aware that its flagship Ranger offerings are priced out of the reach of many bakkie fans. The XL Sport version was built to offer most of the workhorse- and lifestyle bakkie experience, but at a more affordable price. We examine "how much bakkie" you get for your money if you go the close-to-bottom-spec route.
Engine: 2.2-litre turbodiesel 4-cylinder
Power/Torque: 118 kW/385 Nm 
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
Fuel consumption: 8.2 L/100 km (claimed) 
While many bakkie enthusiasts dream of owning a Ranger Wildtrak or -Raptor, the reality is that the asking prices of those flagship bakkies have reached astronomical heights. This is not a purely Ford problem as top-spec offerings from Volkswagen and Toyota have both skyrocketed, with the former being oh-so-close to the R1-million mark. Double-cab bakkies aren't only luxurious indulgences for South African consumers, however. Granted there's been a shift towards lifestyle use, but the core roles of business and utility remain. The price band for the Ford Ranger for sale is enormous, so the lower end of the scale is dominated by industrial-spec workhorses, but what if we told you that mixing business with pleasure was not just a cliche?
Ford recently introduced a Sport pack for its XL-grade Ranger derivative. This is not a vehicle we'd usually get for testing as it is primarily a workhorse, but the addition of the Sport pack brings a lifestyle edge that notably broadens the bakkie's appeal. The XL Sport treatment incorporates a gloss-black grille, with a matching sports bar, rear bumper and 17-inch alloy wheels, plus the test unit was fitted with the excellent Ford SYNC3 infotainment system with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity. This modern unit replaces the rather basic system that comes out of the factory.
The package is a proper back-to-basics offering, but it doesn't feel bareboned. There's no modern Ford biturbo 2.0-litre diesel engine here, with the Blue Oval sticking with the tried-and-tested older-gen 2.2-litre 4-pot turbodiesel unit. Is this mutton dressed as lamb, or has Ford managed to make a compelling value-for-money product? Let's take a look.
Performance and ride/handling
Ford's new-generation powertrains are fantastic; the 2.0-litre engines offer a great blend of power and economy, and the 10-speed transmission intuitively selects the appropriate ratios at the right time. The Ranger XL Sport is different – it uses an older-spec motor and a 6-speed automatic 'box. The 2.2-litre 4-cylinder diesel offers up to 118 kW and 385 Nm, which are sufficient outputs for day-to-day use. It's not the most eager of powertrains when you need maximum acceleration, but you never feel there's a shortage of grunts when overtaking on a national highway. The transmission may not be the fastest-shifting 'box in the business, but you have to remind yourself this is a blue-collared working-class hero. A manual gearbox is also available, but most of our readers are unlikely to go the 3-pedal route. 
When it came to fuel economy, we were hoping to see returns of under 10 L/100 km, but excessive inner-city urban driving with traffic saw the consumption figure climb up. By the time the vehicle went back to Ford, the trip computer read 10.8 L/100 km, which was not ideal, but not unexpected. Add a few open-road trips into the mix and we reckon the Ranger XL Sport would dip under 10 L/100 km.
Despite its dapper cosmetic accoutrements, is the Ranger still a capable off-roader? We put this to the test on the vehicle's launch (late in 2020) when the Ford traversed with the kind of obstacles most Ranger owners are unlikely to encounter. The bakkie performed admirably; we even waded through a river to test out the claimed 800-mm water clearance. The 4×4 operation is simple: you toggle between 2 High, 4 High and 4 Low with a rotary dial (4L, of course, still requires you to come to a complete stop and engage neutral. The tyres (265/65 R17 Goodyear Wranglers) helped extensively on the launch, but interestingly, our test unit came with 17-inch alloys wrapped in chunky 265/65 Continental Cross Contact off-road rubber. While we didn't test those, they certainly looked the part.
With such extensive off-road experience under our belt, we conducted more of a "real-world test" of the Ranger in and around Cape Town. Usually, specialised off-road tyres produce unpleasant levels of road noise on asphalt surfaces, but we're happy to report the Ford Ranger XL Sport didn't seem to generate any more tyre rumble than a double-cab bakkie shod with standard tyres. On longer trips, when travelling at higher-than-average speeds, the rubber did make its presence known, but the hum was drowned out by some of our favourite road-trip tunes played through Spotify and Android Auto. 
As far as ride quality is concerned, the Ranger is a body-on-frame double-cab bakkie, remember, so when unladen, the rear end can jiggle about, but that's to be expected. In case you don't know, when there's no weight on their leaf-sprung rear axles, bakkies can bounce, jiggle and shimmy at higher speeds. While it'd be impossible to eliminate this characteristic entirely, the latest Rangers in XLT and Wildtrak guise have received some tweaks to the suspension to dial this out with mixed success. The Ranger XL Sport has none of this and it feels old-school, but at this price point, we can't complain.
Exterior and Design
The Ranger XL is, arguably, as basic as it gets when it comes to exterior execution, but the Sport pack adds some notable visual updates that ramp up Ford's road presence/kerb appeal. We've already mentioned the off-road-specific tyres, which are really great from a visual point of view, but their chunky sidewalls are also likely to withstand some serious pothole impacts. 
The 17-inch Panther black alloy rims also give the vehicle a lifestyle edge compared with the standard bakkie's stock wheels. There's a big black gloss grille too and we'll bet that'd be an imposing sight in other motorists' rear-view mirrors! A black rear bumper has been fitted, as well as a tubular sports bar. Customers can also opt for black side steps for R5 000. There's a nice sport badge on the rear too.
Interior and features
Given its workhorse origins, it would be rather unfair to expect the XL Sport to have a luxury level of interior spec, but just about everything you'd need in terms of mod cons is present and correct. There is a simple unfussiness to the cabin layout, but some may be put off by the extensive use of cheap-looking and cheap-feeling plastics. This is the bottom-spec Ranger, however, so you can't be too demanding. 
We understand this is a basic offering, but the lack of rear parking sensors in something as large as a double-cab bakkie may cause many stressful parking situations. Thankfully, this is available as an extra-cost option. In terms of the requisite features, there's air conditioning, fabric seats, front/rear electric windows, remote central locking, aux/USB connectivity, as well as daytime running lights. The arguably class-leading 8-inch infotainment system was fitted to this vehicle and for R6k, we'd heartily recommend going this route as it adds hands-free telephony, music streaming and navigation into the mix.
You cannot even begin to compare the standard infotainment unit to the SYNC3-equipped system, they're light-years apart. Given its hands-free operation, which is safer to operate, we're in full support of it. Voice command is supported and works well. Saying, 'Hey Google, navigate home' will activate Google Maps and navigation. Other instructions, like asking for music from your favourite band on streaming services, work well and the system will even read out WhatsApp messages and allow you to reply, all without your hands leaving the 'wheel. 
Service and Warranty
The Ford Ranger is sold with a 4-year/120 000 km warranty, 6-year/90 000 km service plan, 5-year/unlimited km corrosion warranty, and 3-year/unlimited km roadside assistance. 
Verdict
Given the difficult financial climate, we applaud Ford for offering prospective buyers a cost-effective way to upgrade the versatile Ranger XL. Despite its basic underpinnings, there's something refreshing about an honest and uncomplicated vehicle that is fit for purpose. The Sport pack gives the bakkie a welcome image boost, but our favourite part of this kit has to be the wheels. Not only do they look the part, but those thick-walled off-road tyres should soak up the horrendous swathe of potholes littered on our roads. Price-wise, the XL Sport significantly undercuts its flashier XLT and Wildtrak siblings and while more expensive Rangers offer newer powertrains, more refinement and extra creature comforts, the XL Sport offers 75% of that experience at a pocket-friendlier price. That's a win in our books.
You could always look to the demo and pre-owned market too, where significant savings are to be had. The recently revised Toyota Hilux Raider and all-new GWM P-Series are the Ranger XL Sport's key rivals. The former offers legendary reliability and the after-sales backing of a 3-time #CarsAwards Brand of the Year winner, while the GWM is keenly priced and well specified, but still an unknown quantity on the local market. Suffice it to say, it's a huge credit to the Blue Oval that the Ranger remains a frontrunner given that the current generation of the bakkie has been on our market for almost a decade. 
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Review compiled by https://www.cars.co.za/
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silodrome · 2 years ago
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The Rare Toyota Sports 800: The First Toyota Sports Car Ever Made
Though it may look a little unusual now, the Toyota Sports 800 was the first production sports car ever made by the Japanese marque. This means that it’s the great-grandfather of the 2000GT, Supra, Celica, MR2, AE86, the modern GT86, and even the Lexus LFA. The cleverly designed Sports 800 featured a lightweight body with a number of lightweight alloy panels, it had seating for two, a removable…
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autoini · 11 days ago
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Top 4WD Car Prices in Indonesia – Best Deals for You
4WD Cars in Indonesia: Practicality Meets AdventureIndonesia’s vast diversity, ranging from bustling cities to rugged mountains and coastal roads, makes 4WD vehicles essential for many. These vehicles excel in handling rough terrains, bad weather, and off-road adventures. However, with numerous options available, finding the perfect 4WD can be daunting. Here's a guide to the best 4WD cars in Indonesia, balancing performance, features, and affordability.
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Toyota Fortuner 4WD A popular choice among Indonesian drivers, the Toyota Fortuner boasts an aggressive design, spacious interiors, and reliable performance. Its 4WD variant ensures excellent control in tough conditions. Engine Power: 2.8L Diesel Turbo | Price: IDR 600 million
Mitsubishi Pajero Sport Known for its comfort, safety features, and robust 4WD system, the Pajero Sport is ideal for both urban commutes and off-road adventures. Engine Power: 2.4L Diesel Turbo | Price: IDR 700 million
Suzuki Jimny Compact and economical, the Suzuki Jimny is a lightweight SUV designed for tough terrain while delivering impressive fuel efficiency. Engine Power: 1.5L Petrol | Price: IDR 450 million
Nissan Terra Blending luxury and ruggedness, the Nissan Terra suits families seeking a vehicle for both city driving and countryside exploration. Engine Power: 2.5L Diesel | Price: IDR 600 million
Isuzu MU-X Built for Indonesia’s challenging terrains, the Isuzu MU-X offers great stability, reliability, and affordability. Engine Power: 1.9L or 3.0L Diesel | Price: IDR 580 million
Ford Ranger Raptor This powerhouse pickup is built for extreme off-road challenges with superior suspension and unmatched durability. Engine Power: 2.0L Diesel Bi-Turbo | Price: IDR 800 million
Jeep Wrangler An off-road icon, the Jeep Wrangler combines ruggedness with advanced 4WD systems, making it a premium choice for adventure enthusiasts. Engine Power: 2.0L Turbo | Price: IDR 1.1 billion
Choosing the Right 4WD Your ideal 4WD depends on your needs—budget, terrain, and usage. Compact options like the Suzuki Jimny are great for tight budgets, while families may prefer the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport or Nissan Terra for comfort and safety. Adventurers will find the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Ranger Raptor ideal for off-roading.
Conclusion Owning a 4WD in Indonesia isn’t just about convenience—it’s a necessity for tackling the country’s varied landscapes and weather. Whether you prefer budget-friendly options or high-end luxury, there’s a 4WD car to suit every lifestyle and need.
Check full article on this link https://www.autoini.com/auto-news/best-4wd-cars-price-in-indonesia-autoini/
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Car Rental In Dubai: A Guide To Affordable And Luxury Options
Dubai is a luxury place; its car rental sector reflects that widespread high lifestyle. Luxury car rentals in Dubai are an experience in themselves, as well as cruising along the iconic Palm Jumeirah, driving down Sheikh Zayed Road, or simply exploring all those extravagant shopping malls that fill the city. 
From budget-friendly car rental options to luxury rides, Dubai caters to all preferences and budgets. Here is the best choice for luxurious and affordable car rentals in Dubai.
Affordable Car Rental Options In Dubai
There are affordable car rentals for those planning to explore Dubai on a budget without compromising comfort and style. An advantage of being in Dubai is its efficient transport system; however, car rentals provide flexibility and easy access to locations that are difficult to access through public transport.
1. Economy Cars
Economy cars are efficient, cost-effective for travelling, and suitable for short-term visitors or locals who might need to get around the city. The price of these cars starts at AED 70–100 per day in a given season and period, depending on some considerations. These small, fuel-efficient vehicles are effortless to drive on the wide roads of a city, and, very often, parking is accessible and affordable.
2. Compact and Mid-Size Vehicles
Compact or mid-range cars may be available for rent for around AED 150–250 daily. More comfort to users can be offered with the Toyota Corolla, Nissan Altima, and Honda Civic, and it is apt for those who travel with family or small groups. These are advisable for low gas mileage, especially in city commutes and long drives to places of attraction around the area, such as the desert and the coast.
3. Car Package
Dubai car rental companies may devise special packages, such as weekly or monthly package deals, reducing the per-day rental amount to a decent extent. For tourists wishing to stay in Dubai for more than a week, this might be an excellent way of saving some money on the costs of car rentals while owning a vehicle at the same time. Most agencies also provide complete or inclusive packages that include insurance, maintenance, and free mileage.
One luxury car renting option is in Dubai.
From sports cars to exotic supercars, many sports and luxurious machines are available to those who splurge in Dubai.
1. Sports Cars
Among the most challenging edges to attribute to the sports car dream are their high-performance style, sleek designs, and exhilarating driving experiences. The rates for the rental of sports cars depend on the model and the rental term. 
2. Luxury Sedans and SUVs
These are perfect for those who want the best in-car technology and style. The daily rentals for the luxury sedans go as low as AED 500 - 700, while the premium SUVs start from AED 800 per day. For those seeking comfort with style, a luxury sedan like the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, an elite SUV model, including Range Rover or BMW X5, provides the ultimate luxury while offering space for families or large groups. 
3. Exotic Supercars
The car rental market in Dubai caters to car enthusiasts or simply for indulgence, and the company boasts a fleet of exotic supercars such as Lamborghini Aventador, Ferrari 488, McLaren 720S, and Rolls-Royce Wraith. These top-performance machines could only be described as the epitome of automobile engineering worth a certain hefty sum: daily rentals that start at AED 2,500 and move up to AED 10,000 or more for exclusive models.
Tips For Renting A Car In Dubai
A visitor will require an International Driving Permit alongside his country's licence, while locals need to obtain a valid UAE licence to hire one. Insurance is the other critical aspect. Ensure you have comprehensive coverage over your rental car. Ask precisely what that will encompass and if there will be an excess fee. 
Conclusion
Affordable Car Rental In Dubai offers an exciting lineup for any budget and every need - from economy-class vehicles to supercars. So, whether you have come to the city for a weekend or just moved there, renting a car from 'al dhile rent a car' is the perfect way to see the city at your own pace and experience Dubai's convenience, comfort, and thrill of driving in one of the world's most vibrant cities.
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photos-car · 1 year ago
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speedscarss · 1 year ago
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The Need for Speed: A Dive into High-Performance Cars
High-performance cars, often colloquially referred to as Tops Speed have been capturing the hearts of automotive enthusiasts for decades. These machines are not merely modes of transportation; they are masterpieces of engineering designed to push the boundaries of speed, power, and handling. In this article, we'll take a thrilling ride into the world of high-performance cars, exploring what makes them special, their history, and some iconic models that have left an indelible mark on the automotive industry. Visit: https://newvehicle-data.com
High-performance cars are characterized by their exceptional speed, agility, and precision. These vehicles are meticulously crafted with cutting-edge technology and materials to deliver an unparalleled driving experience. They are designed for those who crave the thrill of acceleration, the roar of a powerful engine, and the sensation of gripping the road at high speeds.
A Brief History of Speed SUV
The pursuit of speed has been a driving force in the automotive world since its inception. Here are some key milestones in the history of high-performance cars:
Early Speedsters: The early 20th century saw the rise of speedsters like the Mercedes-Benz SSK and the Bentley 4½ Litre. These cars combined elegance with performance and laid the foundation for future sports cars.
Muscle Car Era: The 1960s and 1970s ushered in the era of American muscle cars. Iconic models like the Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro, and Dodge Challenger became symbols of raw power and speed.
European Supercars: In the 1980s and beyond, European manufacturers introduced legendary supercars, including the Ferrari F40, Lamborghini Countach, and Porsche 911 Turbo. These cars set new standards for top speeds and aerodynamics.
Japanese Sports Cars: Japanese automakers like Toyota, Nissan, and Honda entered the high-performance arena with cars like the Toyota Supra, Nissan Skyline GT-R, and Honda NSX, challenging the dominance of European and American models.
Modern Supercars: Today, manufacturers like Bugatti, McLaren, and Koenigsegg produce hypercars that shatter speed records and push the limits of what's possible on four wheels. The Bugatti Chiron, for example, boasts a top speed of over 260 mph.
Iconic Tops Speeds
Ferrari LaFerrari: This hybrid hypercar combines a V12 engine with an electric motor to produce a staggering 950 horsepower. It's a symbol of Ferrari's commitment to speed and innovation.
McLaren P1: The P1 is another hybrid hypercar that offers mind-bending speed and performance. It features a 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine combined with an electric motor.
Porsche 911 GT3: Known for its precise handling and track-focused performance, the 911 GT3 is a favorite among sports car enthusiasts. It marries speed with agility and has a distinctively iconic design.
Dodge Challenger SRT Demon: This American muscle car is built for straight-line speed. With over 800 horsepower, it's one of the most powerful production cars ever made.
Lamborghini Aventador: Lamborghini's Aventador is a V12-powered supercar that combines striking design with blistering speed. It's a true head-turner on both the road and the track.
Conclusion
High-performance cars represent the pinnacle of automotive engineering and design. They are not just machines; they are a testament to human ingenuity, pushing the limits of what's possible. Whether you're a speed aficionado or simply appreciate the artistry of finely crafted automobiles, the world of high-performance cars offers a thrilling journey into the heart of automotive excellence.
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gpbug · 1 year ago
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1980s: The Acura brand
Following a decade of research, Honda opened 60 new dealerships in North America by 1986, to support its Acura automobile division. Acura was the first Japanese luxury brand to be introduced, and its initial offering consisted of two models: the executive class Legend, a V6-powered sedan, and the compact class Integra, available as a five-door and three-door hatchback. The Legend was the result of Project XX, a joint venture Honda entered into with the Austin Rover Group of Great Britain and was mechanically related to the Rover 800 series, and the Integra was an improvement of the Honda Quint hatchback.
The success of these models, particularly the Legend, led to competing Japanese luxury brand ventures (Toyota's Lexus that began development in 1983 as the F1 project, and Nissan's Infiniti who began development in 1985 by revising their Japan-only flagship Nissan President; in the late 1990s Mazda planned but never launched its own Amati luxury division). The goal of the Legend was to compete with rivals Toyota Crown and the Nissan Cedric and Gloria, but due to its 1986 introduction worldwide, Toyota, Nissan and other companies like Lincoln took notice of the markets reaction to the Legend and later the Vigor and offered vehicles that addressed the executive size car. Toyota introduced the Lexus ES, Nissan introduced the Infiniti J30 and Lincoln utilized the Taurus platform and named their new sedan the Continental.
In 1987, Acura's first full year of sales, they sold 109,000 cars with the flagship Legend sedan accounting for 55,000 sales and the rest were of the smaller Integra. By 1990, Acura was selling 138,000 vehicles, including 54,000 Legends, compared to Mercedes-Benz's 78,000 cars and 64000 for BMW and Lexus.
1990s: NSX, updates
In 1991, five years after the debut of the Legend and Integra, Acura introduced the NSX, a midship V6 powered, rear-wheel-drive sports car. The NSX, an acronym for "New Sports eXperimental", was billed as the first Japanese car capable of competing with Ferrari and Porsche. This vehicle served as a "image car" for the Acura brand, heralding the introduction of Honda's VTEC technology. The NSX was the world's first all-aluminum production car, and was also marketed and viewed by some as the "Everyday Supercar" thanks in part to its ease of use, quality and reliability, traits that were unheard of in the supercar segment at the time. With the release of the NSX, Acura introduced the "A-badge", a stylized pair of calipers - a tool used for exacting measurements to imply that Acura vehicles are built to precise and demanding standards.
Despite a strong start in market acceptance for the Acura brand, sales suffered in the mid-to-late 1990s. Some critics attributed this decline in part to less inspiring designs, which were re-branded Japanese-spec Hondas, such as the Acura Vigor in 1992, a response to the Lexus ES and Infiniti J30. Additionally, during this time Acura switched to an alphanumeric nomenclature formula, dropping the Legend, Vigor and Integra titles, following the lead of the NSX sportscar. The 1996 3.5 RL, which replaced the popular Legend, and the Vigor became the 2.5 TL and 3.2 TL, and was regarded by many as the epitome of this problem, namely because the alphanumeric designations were more anonymous than the former Legend, Vigor and Integra titles, which had grown into their own cult followings. Also, the RL's 210 horsepower (160 kW) V6 (later increased to 225 hp), together with a high price and styling that cautiously copied the larger rear wheel drive and V-8 powered Lexus LS 400, did little against BMW, Audi, Lexus, and other competitors.
During this time, the NSX also lost sales as Acura made few changes from its original 1989 trim. A year later, the Integra sedan was withdrawn from the Canadian market, replaced by the market-exclusive Acura 1.6EL, a rebadged Honda Civic. The Integra sedan continued to be sold in the United States until 2001 (in name only, the model it was replaced with, the RSX, was simply a rebadged left-hand-drive version of the JDM DC5 Honda Integra). The Acura 3.2 TL.
Despite these letdowns, Acura gained prominence in the 1990s with a young group of customers: "tuner" enthusiasts. Parent company Honda's reputation with this demographic as a maker of "easy-to-tune" and "rev-happy" engines rubbed off onto Acura, and the Integra became a popular tuner car.
2000-2003: TL, RSX, MDX
Beginning around the year 2000, Acura experienced a rebirth which was catalyzed by the introduction of several redesigned models. The first of these models was the 1999 Acura 3.2 TL, an upscale sedan competing with the likes of the Lexus ES, Infiniti I30, and BMW 3-series. Critics suggested that although 3.2 TL did not outdo its competition in any one area of luxury cars, it offered a well-rounded blend of sportiness and luxury. These characteristics, combined with the TL's competitive price, proved very popular with consumers. Subsequent Acura models have followed a similar philosophy of offering lots of standard equipment and very few options.
Another refreshed Acura introduced in the early 2000s was the MDX, a popular three-row crossover SUV based on the Honda Odyssey minivan. The MDX replaced the slow-selling SLX, which was little more than a rebadged Isuzu Trooper. The MDX was a car-like crossover SUV with limited off-road capability that catered to the demands of the luxury SUV market. It was given top honors by Car and Driver in its first comparison test against seven other SUVs. Other cars in Acura's line-up during this time included the 3.2 TL, 3.2 CL, RSX (formerly the Integra hatchback), and the NSX. By the late 2000s, Acura had dropped the inclusion of engine displacement numbers in its vehicle designations, retaining a simpler, two- or three-letter designation instead (e.g. 3.5 RL became RL). The 2000s have been plagued by transmission and other problems.
In 2001, a new coupe, badged as the RSX was introduced to the Acura line up. It was a replacement for the outgoing Integra. The RSX is a rebadged Honda Integra (DC5) from the Japanese market. As a result, the RSX is technically a new generation of the outgoing Integra. Much like the Integra, the RSX was a hit in the tuner market. However, at the end of 2006, the RSX was taken out of the Acura line up, subsequently in the Japanese market as well. It is not known why the RSX did not continue to be sold as the Integra in Japan, however, the reason that Acura gave for the cancellation of the RSX is that Acura wishes to move up in the luxury brand, thus cannot sell a car that is mostly driven by teenagers.
2004-2006: RL, TSX, RDX
A new TL debuted for the 2004 model year, featuring sharp, Italianate styling and a 270 hp (200 kW) V6 measured by the then-current SAE standards. The new TL increased sales dramatically to 70,943 American units in 2005, trumping competitors such as the C-Class, G35, CTS, ES 300, and A4.
Also around the same time the Acura TSX was introduced as a cheaper alternative to the BMW 3-Series. It was essentially a re-badged European and Japanese-market Honda Accord loaded with features. This model became the only 4-cylinder sedan in Acura's line-up.
In 2005, a new RL was introduced with a 300 hp (220 kW) V6, improved styling, and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), a system capable of sending almost all of the RL's power to just one wheel in a turn. The second-generation RL appeared on Car and Driver's Ten Best list for 2005, and also garnered an CNET.com "Editor's Choice" Award for Top Tech Car. While critically acclaimed, sales have not met expectations, as the price of the RL is perceived to be out of its bracket. As the new RL offered more features and performance than the base version of its luxury competition's (i.e., the base six-cylinder. BMW 5 Series), Honda Japan suggested that it could charge more, though Honda Canada disagreed. The RL's initial MRSP was $69,500 CAD, more than the six-cylinder BMW 525i and close to that of the V8-powered BMW 545i. At the RL's price point, most consumers expected a V8, furthermore they did not perceive Acura as being on par with its German rivals and expected more value from the Japanese marque. The damage from Honda Japan's alleged hubris was done, even though Honda Canada has since reduced the RL's price.
Acura's new models—particularly the TL and TSX—were well received by the motoring press and became Acura's top selling vehicles. The TSX was on Car and Driver's Ten Best list from 2004–2006.
In 2006 Acura introduced a small SUV which was based on its own unqiue unibody chassis called the RDX with models becoming available to U.S. consumers in August 2006. It is powered by a turbocharged 240-hp 4-cylinder engine and, like the RL, uses Acura's SH-AWD system. The model is available in two versions: Premium (the standard offering), and Technology Package (an upgraded offering with a GPS navigation system). A completely redesigned MDX became available in the fall of 2006 with a 300 hp (220 kW) V6 engine and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive.
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