Indholdsfortegnelse for February 1999 i MotorTrend

Dodge is exploring the minivan market’s performance envelope with this Radiant Viper Red concept vehicle called the Caravan R/T. The big engineering change for the R/T involves an engine swap that plugs in the potent all-aluminum 3.5-liter/253-horsepower SOHC multivalve V-6 used in the sporty Chrysler 300M and premium LHS sedans. While that motivational upgrade alone would unquestionably make for a very fleet errand runner for apex-aiming moms or pops, there’s lots more good stuff involved here. Additional performance-enhancing hardware includes 18-inch light-alloy wheels, low-profile tires, four-wheel disc brakes, firmer springs and damping, manual-shift Autostick transaxle, and rear spoiler. Besides its arresting color and bold graphics, the R/T’s sporty exterior styling cues include foglamps. Viper-like front fascia and hood air scoops, and chrome exhaust tips. Inside, this high-performance flair is manifested…

Qualified auto repair technicians, that is. With today’s vehicles sporting as much onboard computer technology as the Apollo 13 moonshot, the rocket scientist skills needed to repair and maintain them are shrinking the ranks of technicians willing or able to step up to the challenge. At the same time as the number of cars on U.S. roads is increasing by 2 million vehicles a year, the number of auto technicians capable of repairing today’s high-tech vehicles is dropping by as much as 5 percent a year, according to U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). There are jobs for 60,000 trained auto repair techs nationwide, only about 40,000 new technicians will graduate from training programs this year, according to the DOL. One reason, says GM spokesman Ken Tough, is that “today’s auto…

After more than five decades since first used for military and other severe-duty needs, the Power Wagon model has been resurrected by Dodge on a concept vehicle unveiled at the 1999 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Chrysler’s Jonathan L. Rundels, who oversees construction of the automaker’s concept vehicles, states that the Power Wagon is intended to be the luxury flagship for Dodge Trucks. A full-on upscale 4x4 pickup truck may, at first, seem an oxymoron, but not when one considers the emerging demographics of the next century. Nor have those demographic trends been lost on Lincoln, as Ford’s luxury division also unveiled a luxury half-ton pickup based on the F-150, the Blackwood, for this year’s auto show circuit while the company basks in the phenomenal success of its…

Excerpts from our original Corvette test—Nov. 53. Having driven snorts cars that could meet the purist’s conception of a sports car witnout batting a headlight, and having looked at the Chevrolet Corvette as one that would be blinking all over the place, I’ve been pleasantly surprised. The Corvette not only has “go” from a traffic light, punch at high speeds, an uncanny ability to stay flat through sharp turns and a solid ride, but has eye appeal as well. Even though the car has a Power glide, Chevrolet was clever enough to put the selector lever of this automatic transmission next to the driveshaft tunnel. This not only gives you the impression of a standard gear box, but you will find you can get plenty of performance out of it…

First, it was Volkswagen’s New Beetle. Now, it’s the Isuzu Vehi-Cross that’ll be turning heads faster than a no-holds-barred scrimmage on the Jerry Springer show. This brand-new sports/Utility emanates an aggressive, avant-garde look like it’s been plucked right off the future-cars turntable at the local auto show. And, in essence, it has. The VehiCross was first shown as a concept vehicle at the ’93 Tokyo Motor Show, where its sharp angles and swoopy sheetmetal became an instant hit with the local crowds. Now, Isuzu has been able to bring it into the real world of regulations and bottom fines, while retaining much of the original eye-popping pizzazz. And the way they did it may well point the way for future niche vehicles. As an “SUV specialist,” Isuzu’s fortunes largely rise…

A computer in a car is nothing new, unless, of course, it’s part of an in-dash AM/FM/CD audio system. Clarion’s AutoPC has the look of a hieh-end stereo, but, developed in cooperation with Microsoft and using Windows CE 2.0, the system opens up a whole new world of versatility. With voice recognition software, for instance, it lets you control many audio system functions, search the built-in phone book for a name, or dial phone numbers simply by speaking verbal commands, or at the push of a button, take a voice memo. Linked with a GPS receiver, the AutoPC can guide you to a specific address or other destination through both visual and audio prompting. Plus, it can not only receive wireless messages that give you access to real-time traffic reports,…

It’s clear the Frontier pickup platform is playing a large part in Nissan’s future product plans. When it was introduced a little more than a year ago, the Frontier was available only with four-cylinder power, but the lineup is expanding rapidly: ’99 brings a V-6 engine option for 4x4 King Cabs and a full four-door version comes along later this year. The new four-door makes for three Frontier bodystyles; the others remaining are the Regular Cab and extended King Cab. We’ve also known for some time that the Frontier was due to spawn a sport/utility. And it’s happening (MT, Dec. ’98). Designed to fit below—and cost less than—the Pathfinder, this new SUV has since been dubbed Xterra and will be available as a 2000 model. A 170-horsepower version of Nissan’s…

Remote garage door openers are one of the great inventions of the 20th century. When it comes to convenience, though, some work better than others. If you’re tired of using a standard hand-held unit that has to be dug out of the glovebox or wherever, and have its batteries replaced regularly, the Handy-Touch may be a better solution. This is a remote transmitter that simply slides into a vehicle’s cigarette lighter or other 12-volt accessory socket for use. Since it draws power directly the car’s ignition system, there are no batteries to replace. When the receiver unit is installed to a garage door or security gate, one push on the transmitter’s button will do the job. The Handy-Touch has an effective range of up to 150 feet, and up to…

We shuddered as blasts of combustion gases from the ’67 V-12 Formula One engine pounded into our faces. We brushed shoulders with World Champion John Surtees. We cheered when other world champs—Jack Brabham, Freddie Spencer, Wayne Gardner, and Nelson Piquet—piloted vintage racing machines, both two-and four-wheeled. Often, these were the very vehicles that carried them to their championship. (Piquet didn’t only drive his ’86 Fl championship-winning Williams, he did a series of tire-smoking donuts that would make Alex Zanardi envious.) The occasion was Honda’s 50th birthday party. Honda cleared out its extensive Collection Hall museum for its 50th Anniversary Festival, held last fall at the company-owned Twin Ring Motegi motorsport facility. (Imagine a racing facility designed by Disney, complete with a variety of you-drive-’em concessions, including dirt track midgets and…

I just finished reading the Shelby article (Nov. ’98), and you definitely got it right! The excitement, the performance, and the bugs. I’m an electrical systems engineer and was on assignment in Washington state last March, when I got a phone call I couldn’t believe. “Hey, how would you like to help design the electrical system for Shelby’s new car?” “Joke, right!?” “No, get down to L.A. and see what they need.” Man, it was like the thrash before race day with every member of Team Shelby totally committed to doing whatever it takes. We arrived in Vegas the night before MT showed up to complete PPI for your tests. There were grasshoppers everywhere. We, could have scooped them up by the hundreds! (I may have missed out on my…

Apparently, Chevrolet has decided to exercise its talent in the styling studio when it brings the 2000 Monte Carlo to market late this year. Our sources indicate that beyond its bold new sheetmetal this new front-drive coupe will slide onto essentially the same solid underpinnings as the Pontiac Grand Prix and Oldsmobile Intrigue. That means 3.5-or 3.8-liter V-6 power, excellent handling, wide stance, and a good ride compliments of fully independent front and rear suspension. Other changes will include a new rack-and-pinion steering unit, more supportive seats, big four-wheel discs, and standard ABS and traction control. Although rumors of a rear-drive Monte Carlo were previously floated, our best information now points to this conventional front-drive platform, which will also be the common home to the reborn Impala four-door sedan, upcoming…

A FIRST TAKE ON THE CARS OF TOMORROW Once again, it’s time to peer into our all-seeing crystal ball and bring you face to face with the look of things to come in the automotive world. In this special 10-page section, we’ve assembled in-depth coverage of three striking new concept vehicles from U.S. automakers that give more than a subtle hint of what lies ahead for production machines in the not-too-distant future. All these exercises in advanced design and engineering can be seen at major motoring expos this year, starting with debut appearances at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. But thanks to our dedicated cadre of staff sleuths, we’re able to provide MT readers with a detailed preview on each before they go on public view. So…

Mercedes-Benz has embarked upon a self-imposed makeover mission during the past decade. The goal: to aggressively redefine its role as a producer of contemporary luxury vehicles. Without a doubt, the most convincing manifestation yet of the firm’s success in that endeavor is the all-new S-Class. Just on sale in Europe and due here in the spring as an early 2000 model, M-B’s flagship sedan has been totally recast for the new millennium. It emerges from the crucible with a bold new look and feel that only hints at the scintillating character lying within. Make no mistake, this fabled four-door remains the undisputed leader of the Benz Pack. But, still smarting from criticism that its predecessor was just too much of a good thing, Mercedes’ designers took a markedly different approach…

FEBRUARY TRIVIA Feb. 3,1990: General Motors unveils its “Impact” eiectric car, predecessor to the EV-1. Feb. 6,1954: First Mercedes-Benz models to be introduced in the U.S. are the 300SL “gullwing” coupe and the 190SL roadster. Feb. 12,1957: A tragic fire at Jaguar’s Brown’s Lane factory destroys hundreds of cars including rare D-types. Feb. 15,1975: The 500,000th Corvette comes off the line matching the white paint with red interiors of the original ’53 models. Feb. 16,1962: A Carroll Shelby-modified A.C. Ace to is shipped to Dean Moon’s shop where a Ford 260-cu in. V-8 is installed. And so, the first Shelby Cobra is born. Feb. 17,1972: The 15,007,034th VW Beetle is produced, beating Ford Model record, set 45 years earlier during its 18-year run. Feb. 23,1964: Richard Petty wins the Daytona…

It was just a couple months back (Nov. ’98, to be exact) that we rocked suburbia to its very foundations by proclaiming the new-for-’99 Honda Odyssey as the best minivan in the history of the genre. Stacked up against a field of its peers, the large, comfortable, powerful, and highly affordable Honda was just a little better, in just about every way. Since then, a few important events have transpired. First, Honda has set final pricing for the new Canadian-built Odyssey and has remained tine to its word about bringing its ’99-model people-mover in below the prime competitors. The nicely equipped LX model carries a base price of $23,200, and the up-level EX version stickers at $25,800. On an equipment-matching basis, the Odyssey comes in at thousands less than its…

As the largest automotive trade show in the world, the Specialty Equipment Market Association’s annual gathering in Las Vegas equates to a several hundred thousand square foot toy box for the automotive enthusiast. It’s the aftermarket’s Biggest Deal, and two things were evident at this year’s event: The booming truck and sport/utility vehicle market is for real, and carmakers have not only recognized, but embraced, the automotive aftermarket. Never before has there been so much SEMA Show participation by OEMs, with nearly everyone presenting a tasty palette of hopped-up hardware; General Motors alone brought 50+ vehicles. While the new Silverado and Sierra pickups were the hot topic, Ford, Chrysler, and several import brands were also out in force. Here’s a look at what we felt to be some of the…

If you feel your spotless, dust-free, well-kept interior deserves a more presentable air freshener than a cardboard cut-out or plastic clip-on. Holts Wild Woods may do the trick for you. These fresheners are carved from real wood and infused with essential fragrance oils in seven scents: Forest Pine, Vanilla Tropic, Summer Peach, Strawberry, Applemint, (/range Zest, and Summer Orchard. Wild Woods are bound to be more attractive to your date, client, or friend than a paper pine tree. $1.98. Prestone; 800/862-7737; www.prestone.com. Your car’s freshly washed and clean, but now it’s time to dry it frantically before you end up with a finish full of water spots. This is where the California Water Blade can save you some serious time with a towel or chamois. Developed by the company behind…

If it can be taped, welded, bolted, glued, gummed, or willed onto a car, then it was on display at the recent Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas. But it’s not just the aftermarket’s pageant; manufacturers use the exposition to showcase variations on established products—some may see production. The cars here are just highlights. There were more. Many more. MERCURY MARAUDER Of SEMA’s cars, this is the most likely to see an assembly line. Mercury’s Marauder is the dowdy Grand Marquis with an Impala SS makeover. There are 18-inch Pirelli P Zeroes in back, 17-inchers upfront, and the Crown Vic cop car suspension underneath. Inside are bucket front seats, center console, floor shifter, and silver-faced instrumentation. This prototype’s engine is a mule, but an Eaton-blown 4.6-liter SOHC…

At the moment, Ford’s plans for the upcoming North American market launch of its new Focus are just a bit fuzzy. That’s not the case with the car’s handling dynamics, interior room, and cutting-edge appearance, which are remarkably sharp. Despite a few lingering questions with respect to its formal U.S. intro, extended time behind the wheel of several European-spec Focus models in Normandy. France, left us extremely impressed with the overall sophistication of this slick newcomer. The first—and very welcome—surprise involved the many big-car features and exemplary roadgoing refinement evidenced in the Focus. For example, in Euro trim, it’s offered with upmarket features like traction control, side-impact airbags, stability control, and even a traveler’s aid system that utilizes a GPS package and a cell phone. But from a pricing standpoint,…

Mitsubishi is well known for its exotic concept and show vehicles, such as its HSR series from years past, and it’s not being shy with this year’s Detroit show car. Its internal code name is “Mad Max,” and it showcases styling cues of future Mitsubishi products, as well as true sports car/SUV hybrid possibilities. This concept vehicle is built on a modified existing platform, is fully operational, and commingles a powerplant from the respected all-wheel-drive, twin-turbo, 300-horsepower 3000GT VR-4 and load-carrying capabilities of a Montero. Unless “Max” has adjustable-height suspension, this one doesn’t look like it’s going very far off-road. However, it’s designed to carry four passengers comfortably, while hauling a substantial amount of cargo—very rapidly. “Mad Max” is quite imposing at 188 inches long, 80 inches wide, with a…

The Import Car of the Year competition typically encompasses the widest range of vehicles of any of our award programs. And this year was no exception. We evaluated a full spectrum of models from a $65,000 sports car to a $8700 hatchback, from fresh remakes of familiar machines to clean-sheet, right-off-the-drawingboard newcomers, from such diverse locations as Germany, Japan, South Korea, and Sweden. We critiqued them on a multitude of elements, including performance, overall design, technological innovation, liveability, value, and how they impact their own individual segments. In the end, though, we choose not the top ten, not the five best, but only one winner: the most significant import car of ’99. The preliminary testing begins months before you read this. As each new model is released to the public,…

Great times, tough times. America was still recovering from the loss of a much-loved president, and Vietnam battlefield coverage was a bitter pill TV audiences had to swallow every day. But Frank, Dean, and Sammy were packing ’em in at the Sands, and, man, did we have cars. Carroll Shelby worked his magic on the just-out Ford Mustang to create the legendary GT 350, while Chevrolet debuted its new big-block 396 V-8. Pontiac garnered our Car of the Year award, and the horsepower race was in full bloom. MTs late-’65 coverage brimmed with anticipation of exciting new ’66 models, like the revolutionary front-drive Oldsmobile Toronado. Fast times and tough times, but exciting times they were. ON TRACK •Jim Clark, rightfully dubbed the “Flying Scot” and driving a Lotus-Ford, proved that…

For far too many people, a trip to Missouri pretty much starts and ends in St. Louis. While the Gateway City boasts a wealth of worthwhile attractions, it’s but a small piece of the overall mosaic that makes up this keystone of America’s heartland. Those willing to venture beyond will find a tapestry rich in historic and geological sites overlaid with a host of other natural and man-made wonders. Many of its most intriguing locales are also intimately linked to prominent Dersonalities from the Dast. A recent three-day/800-mile odyssey took us through Missouri’s very core. With rare exceptions, the roads—from remote two-lane rural routes to Interstate 44, which bisects it east to west—proved in great shape and dutifully followed the natural rolling terrain, making them doubly appealing to any driving…

Honda claims this wicked little two-seater will do a shade under 150 mph. Of course, we don’t know that for an absolute because Honda wouldn’t let us instrument one of its precious million-dollar prototypes. But we do know it’ll twist the speedo needle above 135 mph with the top down. And we can safely state that because the wind was tickling our scalps as we snuck the S2000 to that velocity on the company’s high-security Tochigi proving ground in Japan. Honda officials told Motor Trend it is their intention to build about 5000 of these two-seaters a year in the same plant that currently assembles the awesome mid-engine, all-aluminum Acura NSX. Latecomer Honda has targeted existing top-down funsters like the Porsche Boxster and the 2.8-liter six equipped BMW Z3. At…

Winter driving isn’t what it used to be. Although we haven’t exactly tamed the beast, armed with the latest technology, we’ve at least been able to crack the whip a few times to show it we mean business. Where the first line of defense used to be studded snow tires, front drive, and the judicious use of throttle, brake, and steering, electronics and new tire technology bring fresh reinforcements to the fight for traction on slippery roads. Sure, taking it slow and easy is still important when the road doesn’t offer much grip, but the latest wave of intelligent traction-control systems is giving us a wider margin of error to work with. Four-and all-wheel-drive systems are getting more sophisticated every year and are available on everything from sport/utilities to station…

PERFORMANCE TEST BMW packs sensory overload into the 96.2-inch wheelbase of every M-Roadster. Add a supercharger to the equation, and five senses just aren’t enough to handle the thrill. A sixth is needed, and a seventh or eighth wouldn’t hurt. Two years ago, Race Marque Systems (RMS) designers were so eager to get the M3’s six into a Z3 that they beat BMW to the punch and produced their own (“Performance Trends,” Feb. ’97). Now that BMWs installing the 3.2-liter/240-horse-power DOHC inline six itself, RMS has raised the stakes again by plumbing a Vortech V-1S centrifugal supercharger onto that engine to produce, the company claims, a tiny, low-slung roadster with 369 horsepower available for journeys through extra-sensory perception. BMWs M50 and M52 sixes are naturals for supercharging. Their narrow inline…

’98 LINCOLN NAVIGATOR Miles accrued at a NASCAR pace over the summer as staffers used the Navigator on numerous family vacations, transporting the troons in leather-lined, living-room comfort. As winter approached, the Nav became relegated to commuter duty, and even that was somewhat discouraged to ensure enough miles were logged on our other vehicles. Consequently, the odometer hasn’t been spinning like a slot machine as before. As an everyday vehicle, the Navigator seems huge, especially when transitioning from a subcompact. Great interior space and comfort spoils the front four riders, but the third row is destined to be the kids’ realm. Staffers with small families have been inclined to leave the large, heavy, removable bench behind in the garage to increase the rear cargo space. Even so, we wish the…