Sunday, January 23, 2011

Top 10 Quickest Sports Cars for 2009-2010 under $100,000

The following 10 super cars were judged by 1/4 time and potential top speed. Some of these cars were so close in comparison that they could have been placed in different order. Moreover, only one car from one manufacturer was placed on this list.

1. Nissan GT-R

nissan-gt-r-2010

Base Price (MSRP): $80,790
Engine Type: 3.8 L twin-turbo V6
Power: 480 hp
Torque: 430 lb-ft
Weight: 1,740 kg
Acceleration 0-62 mph: 3.6 seconds
¼ Mile Time: 11.6 seconds at 125 mph
Top Speed: 191 mph / 307.4 km/h restricted
Lateral Acceleration: 1.0 g

Until recently, the GT-R has never officially been imported to North America. Only 60,000 are planned to be built for the 5 year production time. With full-time four-wheel drive and all the comforts, this car can easily be a daily driver, 365 days of the year in any climate.

2. Dodge Viper SRT 10
2009 Dodge Viper SRT10 Roadster

Base Price (MSRP): $89,340
Engine Type: 8.4 L V10
Power: 600 hp
Torque: 560 lb-ft
Weight: 1,567 kg
Acceleration 0-62 mph: 3.9 seconds
¼ Mile Time: 11.6 seconds at 125 mph
Top Speed: 200 mph / 321.9 km/h
Lateral Acceleration: 1.0 g

A thinly-disguised race car, the Viper is not for amateurs; unlike the more forgiving forgiving Corvette, the Viper requires considerable driving skill to handle it properly. Explosive power and surprising handling prowess make Dodge’s flagship vehicle a thrilling ride. Beyond that Viper is an emotional statement that makes little sense as daily transportation.

3. Corvette Z06

chevrolet-corvette-z06

Base Price (MSRP): $74,875
Engine Type: 7 L V8
Power: 505 hp
Torque: 470 lb-ft
Weight: 1,421 kg
Acceleration 0-62 mph: 3.9 seconds
¼ Mile Time: 11.7 seconds at 125 mph
Top Speed: 198 mph / 318.7 km/h
Lateral Acceleration: 1.04 g

The Chevrolet Corvette Z06 is widely regarded as one of the best performance bargains on the planet. 2009 Z06 is all about taking winning ideas from the race track and putting them on the street. Offering legendary performance and style this car is also about standard equipment and safety.

4. Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 KR
2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR

Base Price (MSRP): $79,995
Engine Type: 5.4 supercharged V8
Power: 540 hp
Torque: 510 lb-ft
Weight: 1,800 kg
Acceleration 0-62 mph: 4.3 seconds
¼ Mile Time: 11.92 seconds at 120 mph
Top Speed: 155 mph / 249.5 km/h restricted
Lateral Acceleration: 0.96 g

This is the ultimate Shelby Mustang of the era – “King of the Road”. The Shelby GT500KR is produced in an exclusive run of 1000 units. The production Shelby GT500KR was maximized to deliver the perfect balance between ride and handling. The combination of added horsepower, refinement and functionality makes the 2010 Shelby GT500 a unique high-performance car.

5. Cadillac CTS-V

cadillac-cts-v-2009

Base Price (MSRP): $59,995
Engine Type: 6.2 L supercharged V8
Power: 556 hp
Torque: 551 lb-ft
Weight: 1,930 kg
Acceleration 0-62 mph: 4.2 seconds
¼ Mile Time: 12.0 seconds at 118 mph
Top Speed: 191 mph / 307.4 km/h
Lateral Acceleration: 0.88 g

Cadillac takes the next leap forward by premiering the 2009 CTS-V, the brand’s ultimate expression of performance. The all-new CTS-V intends to combine the serious performance of an elite sports car with the poise and elegance of a prestigious luxury sedan. The car features world’s fastest-reacting suspension technology, Magnetic Ride Control (MRC). It uses shocks controlled by electro-magnets, rather than mechanical valves, improving accelerating response time.

6. Mercedes-Benz AMG C63

mercedes-benz-amg-c63

Base Price (MSRP): $56,300
Engine Type: 6.2 L V8
Power: 451 hp
Torque: 443 lb-ft
Weight: 1,740 kg
Acceleration 0-62 mph: 4.6 seconds
¼ Mile Time: 12.51 seconds at 113 mph
Top Speed: 174 mph / 280 km/h
Lateral Acceleration: 0.93 g

The C63 AMG is the ultimate expression of the AMG philosophy, providing benchmark engine performance along with outstanding handling characteristics. The C63 AMG will contribute to the continued success of the all-new C-Class line-up and has all the attributes to dominate in terms of performance, handling, luxury, value and price.

7. BMW M3

bmw-m3-20091

Base Price (MSRP): $56,500
Engine Type: 4.0 L V8
Power: 420 hp
Torque: 295 lb-ft
Weight: 1,655 kg
Acceleration 0-62 mph: 4.6 seconds
¼ Mile Time: 12.51 seconds at 115 mph
Top Speed: 155 mph / 250 km/h restricted
Lateral Acceleration: 0.90 g

The first ever 8 cylinder BMW M3 sets the foundation for continuing an exceptional career in motor sport. So every enthusiast sharing the passion for supreme performance may be sure that this model is able to master even the greatest challenge on and off the race track. The new BMW M3 offers the supreme standard of reliability and everyday driving qualities.

8. Porsche 911 Carrera 4S

porsche-911-carrera-4s

Base Price (MSRP): $97,280
Engine Type: 3.8 L I6
Power: 385 hp
Torque: 310 lb-ft
Weight: 1,481 kg
Acceleration 0-62 mph: 4.6 seconds
¼ Mile Time: 12.51 seconds at 113 mph
Top Speed: 184 mph / 297 km/h
Lateral Acceleration: 0.98 g

The 2009 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S is all-wheel-drive that will definitely make a mark in the automobile industry for its sheer power and performance. The new Carrera models are Porsche’s first sports cars for the road to feature the Porsche double-clutch transmission (PDK). The PDK offers manumatic shifting via rocker controls on the steering wheel.

9. Lotus Exige Cup 260

2009-lotus-exige-cup-260

Base Price (MSRP): $79,420
Engine Type: 1.8 L supercharged I4
Power: 257 hp
Torque: 174 lb-ft
Weight: 890 kg
Acceleration 0-62 mph: 4.6 seconds
¼ Mile Time: 13.00 seconds at 108 mph
Top Speed: 152 mph / 245 km/h
Lateral Acceleration: 1.02 g

Given Lotus’ lighter-is-better philosophy, it’s no surprise that it focused on dropping mass to increase performance. It’s also no surprise that they were able to find ways to do it in the already ultra-light Exige. To reduce the overall weight the development of 2009 model takes advantage of advanced light weight components and carbon fibre body material.

10. Lexus IS-F

2009-lexus-is-f

Base Price (MSRP): $67,000
Engine Type: 5.0 L V8
Power: 416 hp
Torque: 371 lb-ft
Weight: 1,714 kg
Acceleration 0-62 mph: 4.9 seconds
¼ Mile Time: 13.00 seconds at 111 mph
Top Speed: 186 mph / 299 km/h
Lateral Acceleration: 0.91 g

Every angle makes it clear as to what this car was born to do, from the mesh grillwork to the vertically stacked, quad exhaust tips. Lexus says the IS F combines high performance, high technology and high style in a luxury sport sedan that delivers a uniquely Lexus interpretation of driving excitement and authentic performance.

Top Ten Green Cars

In a time of poor economy and when everyone is trying to save money it is no wonder that car manufacturers are working on a new breed of cars. These cars are best noted for their incredible gas mileage and the fact that they are not as hard on the environment as cars in the past have been.


Toyota Prius1. Toyota Prius

These cars average an amazing 50 mpg…while getting the average 48 mpg in town and 51 mpg on the highway. This car offers a number of different green options including a solar powered ventilation system and glass moon roof on the newer models. These cars have been noted as the number one green car for many years.


Honda Insight2. Honda Insight

These cars boast an amazing average of 41 mpg while getting 43 mpg on the highway and 40 mpg in town. This is the most affordable hybrid car on the market and the price for one starts at just over $20,000 which is considerably less money than the others.


Ford Fusion Hybrid3. Ford Fusion Hybrid

The Ford Fusion Hybrid is a car that is known for its outstanding gas mileage while still being a larger car that offers more room and comfort than many of the traditional hybrids which are smaller and more uncomfortable. The car gets an average of 39 mpg while getting 41 mpg in town and 36 mpg on the highway.


VW Jetta Sportswagon TDI4. VW Jetta Sportswagon TDI

The return of the Jetta has offered some great things including an average of 34 mpg with 30 mpg in town and 41 mpg on the highway. This car was even awarded the 2009 Green Car of the Year award for the amazing changes that were made.


MINI Cooper5. MINI Cooper

The MINI Cooper has an average mpg of 32 mpg, while offering 37 mpg on the highway and 28 mpg in town. The MINI Cooper is best known for it’s ability to drive and handle like a sports car with amazing suspension and an ability to deliver in the area of performance.


Ford Escape Hybrid6. Ford Escape Hybrid

The Ford Escape Hybrid offers the easy accessibility of a small SUV while still offering an average of 32 mpg, with 34 mpg in town and 31 mpg on the highway. The simple SUV styling and size make this a great option for families who are unable to fit in the smaller cars.


Honda Fit7. Honda Fit

The Honda Fit averages 31 mpg, while getting 34 mpg on the highway and 28 mpg in the city. The sport model even offers a better suspension and a higher performance of driving. This car tops its class in performance and owner satisfaction.


BMW 335d8. BMW 335d

This diesel powered car offers some amazing speed and ability and is known for its quick 0-60 mph time of just 6.0 seconds. The BMW 335d also offers an average of 27 mpg while getting 36 mpg on the highway and 23 mpg in town. The best thing about this car is that it offers all of the luxury that is expected of a BMW while offering some great fuel economy.


Toyota Highlander Hybrid9. Toyota Highlander Hybrid

This full sized SUV offers many options that are not available with most cars or smaller SUVs. The SUV can offer full seating room for seven which is far more than other green cars and still is able to get an average of 26 mpg, while getting 27 mpg in town and 25 mpg on the highway.


Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid10. Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid

This truck offers the full utility of a truck while offering gas mileage that is far better than most full bed sized pickup trucks. The Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid offers an average 21 mpg, while offering 22 mpg on the highway and 21 mpg in town.

Top 10 Best Value Cars

As we go through difficult time, rising prices, a slow economy and fuel debates, automotive industry is also undergoing a prominent change. Below is a list of 10 best buy cars that you might want to consider if you are planning to get the most for your dollar and still be economical of fuel. These are not just cars, but also SUV’s, sports cars and luxury vehicles. The basis of the choice was their long-term and short term value.

Toyota-Camry1. Toyota Camry – Best Midsize Car

Well known for its comfortable ride, and spacious interiors, the Camry has been the best-selling car in the US for over 7 years. Internationally also it is one of Toyota’s flagship brands. It has a low entry price, and has long-term dependability, and among midsize cars it rules the roost.

Honda-Fit2. Honda Fit – Best Sub Compact Car

Among affordable small cars, the Honda Fit is a clear winner. It does cost more than the other small cars, but it has great fuel efficiency, and a variable interior, thereby accommodating either cargo or passengers easily.


Hyundai-Elantra3. Hyundai Elantra - Best Compact Car

Frequently ranked as the best compact car, the Elantra has a low base price, and good value over time. It has a comfortable interior and numerous safety features and a strong warranty.


Toyota-Highlander4. Toyota Highlander – Best Midsize Crossover

The best midsize crossover, the Highlander boasts of functional interiors, a family friendly car, and an affordable price. The new four cylinder option saves on fuel, and the seven air bags are a welcome additional safety feature.


Lexus-RX5. Lexus RX – Best Luxury Crossover

Normally in a luxury car we do not seek value for money, but the Lexus RX is definitely one of the largest selling SUV’s in its section due to its good value. Luxurious interiors, a fabulous reputation for delivering quality and value, and powerful performance are its hallmarks.

Chevrolet-Tahoe6. Chevrolet Tahoe - Best Fullsize SUV

For families who need a large amount of seating, inclement weather driving facilities and towing facilities, the Tahoe is a must-buy. It is easy to drive and surprisingly light on its feet.


Mazda-Miata7. Mazda Miata - Best Sportscar

The Miata is a two-seater roadster sportscar, which has an impressive reliability history. Listed as the best-selling convertible sportscar in history, it combines the virtues of comfort with the joy of speed.


Lexus-GS8. Lexus GS – Best Luxury Car

If you are looking for a luxury car, you cannot go wrong with a Lexus GS. An amazingly comfortable car, its drive smoother than most other luxury cars. It also has the best long-term value over all luxury cars.


Toyota-Sienna9. Toyota Sienna – Best Minivan

A safe, comfortable and reliable car, it has a great deal of engine power for its size. It also provides great value for money in its class, and combines versatility with utility.


Toyota-Tacoma10. Toyota Tacoma – Best Compact Pickup Truck

This truck has been on the award winning list for many years. It combines the interiors of a car with the practicality of a truck. Its standard safety features make for a very strong road and off-road performance.

2009 Best Performance Sports Bikes

Of the Ten Best Sports Bikes for 2009, first 6 have near equal performance making the selection process more difficult. Our top 10 list is based on styling, engineering, control, price, availability but mostly acceleration, top speed and thrill of riding.

gsx1300r-hayabusa1. Suzuki Hayabusa GSX 1300R
The GSX1300R is our number one sports bike. It was designed to be the fastest despite equal performance to the next 2 bikes on our list. We felt that its potential is slightly ahead of its competitors due to acceleration, potential unrestricted top speed and ride quality. In 2009 the Hayabusa features the best power-to-weight ratio and presents as one of the sharpest looking motorcycles ever made. The revised engine has a claimed 12% increase in power to 194hp / 145 kW. This bird is said to be capable of speeds of over 303km/h electronically restricted with 0 to 60 mph acceleration in 2.47 seconds. The 2009 model has a MSRP of $11,999USD and dry weight 220kg / 485 lbs.

kawasaki-ninja-zx-142. Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14 Monster Energy
This king of the Ninjas offers massive torque, effortless power, agile handling and a comfortable ride to keep itself at the head of the pack in the superbike class at only $12,399USD. This Ninja is capable of accelerating from 0–60 mph in 2.5 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 299 km/h making it one of the fastest bikes for 2009. It is powered by 203 hp/ 151kW engine.

mvagusta-f4rr-312-1078-f41078rr-33. MV Agusta F4 RR 312 1078
The RR 312 is not a machine to be bothered with limits or weak points and for this reason, only the best components that money could buy have been used. The 2009 MV Agusta F4RR 312 1078 is more affordable with the estimated price of $28,000USD. The peak horsepower is in black and white: 190hp / 142kW. Top speed is a scary 299 km/h with acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just under 3 seconds, but equally disconcerting is its dry weight 192kg / 423lbs.

ducati-11984. Ducati 1198
The 1198 is a race bike, pure and simple. It is estimated price will be $20,995USD. While this engine makes 170bhp / 127kW and with dry weight of 171 kilos. The ‘R’ model will have 10 extra hp but not rated on the track yet. The 0-60 mph time is less than 2.5 seconds and top speed is estimated at 299 km/h for none ‘R’ version.

yamaha_yzf-r15. Yamaha YZF-R1
The 2009 R1 is the most confidence-inspiring bike on this list offering performance and equipment worthy of a really modern racing bike for a very reasonable MSRP of $12,500USD. Power is marginally up at a claimed 182hp / 136kW. R1 is expected to reach 100km/h from standstill in about 2.7 seconds with top speed of 299km/h. Due to its dry weight of 190kg / 419lb this R1 has been one of the quickest sports bikes on the market.

bimota-db7-oroneroa6. Bimota DB7 Oronero
Bimota is the first production bike in the world with a carbon fiber frame and swingarm. Oronero stands at a sizzling 164Kg / 362lbs. DB7 is taking power to a claimed 164bhp, giving one horsepower per kilo power to weight ratio. The bike is available to anyone with $52,000USD asking price. With top speed of 295km/h this bike certainly deserves to be in sixth place.

2009-honda-cbr1000rr7. Honda CBR 1000RR
The CBR 1000RR is the lightest at 199kg / 440lb, most compact, and best performing motorcycle in its class, making it the standard against which all other lighter bikes are measured. With 178hp / 133 kW this new 1000RR will provide delicate balance at MSRP of $12,999USD. The CBR 1000RR will do 0 to 100km/h in 2.9 seconds and has top speed of 290km/h.

2009-aprilia-rsv-1000r-factory8. Aprilia RSV 1000
Over the last few years, Aprilia has joined the ranks of Italian motorcycle manufacturers who are giving the Japanese a run for their money with a base price of $17,999.00 US. The new engine is more powerful pushing 143bhp / 106.7kW. A considerable weight reduction to 185kg / 408lb for 2009 has been achieved by using a magnesium cylinder head cover and clutch cover. This bikes top speed is rated at 280km/h with 0 to 100km/h in 2.65 seconds.

bmw-k1300s9. BMW K 1300 S
The new K 1300 S, the most powerful and fastest BMW the world has ever seen. Engine output 175hp / 129kW combined with overall weight of 254kg / 560lb including fuel. This truly supreme motorcycle offers the utmost in dynamic performance and German engineering. With base price of only $16,650USD this bike will do 0 to 100km/h in less than 2.8 seconds and has top speed of 250km/h.

buell-1125cr10. Buell 1125CR
At just 170kg /375 lbs dry, the 1125CR is the lightest street fighter in its class. The 1125cc’s displacement gives this engine the right bore and stroke combination to deliver superbike power: 146hp / 109kW. This Buell sells for around $14,995USD. With top speed of 251km/h (est) this bikes deserves its place on the top ten list of super bikes.

Top 10 Most Fuel Efficient Cars

Hybrids by their very nature are highly fuel efficient vehicles, hence there is a preponderance of them in this list. The average mileage is calculated from equal portions of city and highway driving.

Toyota_Prius1. Toyota Prius – estimated 46 mpg – The most popular hybrid of the lot, it has a great hatchback body and a Buck Rogers interior. Practical and roomy, it offers a lot of amenities and enough space for a family of five. Only slightly higher in price than a mid-size sedan, it offers the best fuel economy of all vehicles.

Honda-Civic-Hybrid2. Honda Civic Hybrid – estimated 42 mpg – This hybrid combines Honda Civic’s style and functionality with amazing fuel economy. Priced fairly higher than a normal Civic, it is a normal 5 seat sedan with electric motors, combined with much needed savings on gasoline.


Smart-Fortwo3. Smart fortwo – estimated 36 mpg – A rear-engine two-seater car, Smart fortwo is an inexpensive car, small enough for two and even comes in a convertible model. A great way to save fuel and money. Fortwo is the most fuel-efficient vehicle in the two-seater class.


Nissan-Altima-Hybrid4. Nissan Altima Hybrid – estimated 30 mpg (manual), 29 mpg (automatic) – A mid-size sedan, it is more sportier than most hybrids, and yet has the heart of a big car. Among mid-size cars it is the best option for those who are looking to save fuel, and yet have a car large enough for a small family.


2007 Toyota Camry Hybrid5. Toyota Camry Hybrid – estimated 34 mpg – Camry lovers will love this new version, cause it combines the beauty and styling of the original Camry with fuel economy and money saving. It has a larger engine than the Prius , ordinary tires and a familiar shape. But it gives 35% more on a gallon of gas.

Volkwagen-Jetta-TDI6. Volkwagen Jetta TDI – estimated 34 mpg (manual) 33 mpg (automatic) – Owners of this practical, fun to drive and cool car report much higher fuel economy figures than the EPA figures. The tax credits on the TDI combined with the fuel economy figures make it a very effective purchase option. Running on diesel, it’s fuel economy is a 40% improvement on the gas powered version.

2008 Ford Escape Hybrid7. Ford Escape Hybrid – estimated 32 mpg – Though it cannot really be called a car, this Ford SUV is the most fuel efficient of them all, along with the Mercury Mariner and the Mazda Tribute. It’s fuel economy is equivalent to that of other mid size cars, and it has an excellent Hybrid engine. A phenomenal but underestimated vehicle, it does well even on low speeds.

Toyota-Corolla8. Toyota Corolla – estimated 30 mpg (manual) 31 mpg (automatic) – Among non-hybrids the Corolla is believed to be one of the most fuel efficient cars. The new Altis version of 2009 has been made roomier, better looking and much more reliable. It has greater fuel economy figures than most compacts.

Mini-Cooper9. Mini Cooper – estimated 32 mpg (manual) 29 mpg (automatic) – The tiny-sized exterior hides a spacious interior. It has always been a fun to drive car and also highly fuel efficient. The base – model is the most fuel efficient, but the other two models are also great on fuel economy, even though they use premium gas.

Honda-Fit10. Honda Fit – estimated 32 mpg (manual) 31 mpg (automatic) – One of the best mini-cars to hit the world, it’s most popular feature is its ability to adjust the back seats and the trunk bay in many ways, to accommodate family and cargo. Add to this its economy figures and its flexibility, and we have a great small car.