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Category: Cars

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  • Fastest car in the world (2013) – Part Two

    6. McLaren MP4-12C
    McLaren MP4-12C
    Top Speed: 205 mph (330 km/h)
    0–60 mph: 3.3 seconds
    Price: $239,400

    The McLaren MP4-12C can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 3.3 seconds. However, the acceleration times can be further improved to 3.1 seconds if the MP4-12C is fitted with Corsa tires. The 2013 McLaren MP4-12C also able to accelerate from a standstill position to 124 mph in 8.9 seconds which scares drivers with heart attack problem. As for top speed, the official record is 205 mph. Safety wise, the car can brake from 124 mph and comes to a complete stop in under 5 seconds. The overall performance is almost similar to the 2013 SRT Viper but the price tag is two times more than it. That’s one reason why it ranked at number 6 in the world’s fastest car list.

    7. Bentley Continental GT Speed
    Bentley Continental GT Speed
    Top Speed: 205 mph (330 km/h) – Tied with McLaren MP4-12C
    0–60 mph: 4.3 seconds
    Price: $234,000

    The Bentley has gone crazy! In 2013, there will be a 2-door Bentley that flies – The Bentley Continental GT Speed. It flies a top speed of 205 mph with a 6.0-liter twin-turbo DOHC 40-vavle V12 engine under the car hood. It produces 600hp and 553 lb-ft of torque with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The wheelbase is 108 inch and the curb weight is 5180 lb but it accelerates from 0-60mph in 4.3 seconds which is quite satisfied. And yes, the Bentley Continental GT Speed is currently the fastest Bentley ever and also the fastest car driven on ice with the record of 199.83 mph (321.6 km/h).

    8. Chevrolet Corvette ZR1
    Chevrolet Corvette ZR1
    Top Speed: 205 mph (330 km/h)
    0–60 mph: 3.4 seconds
    Price: $111,600

    The Corvette has 60 years of history in automobile industry. The 2013 Corvette ZR1 is powered by a 6.2-liter LS9 aluminum block V8 supercharged engine delivering an SAE-certified 638 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 604 lb-ft of torque at 3,800 rpm. Thanks to the lightweight titanium engine, it goes from 0-60 mph in 3.4 seconds and achieved a top speed of 205 mph which is tied with McLaren MP4-12C and Bentley Continental GT Speed. Fuel economy is recorded at 21 mpg on highway.

    9. Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera
    Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera
    Top Speed: 202 mph (325 km/h)
    0–62 mph: 3.4 seconds
    Price: $237,600

    The Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 is another Italian bull that comes into the top ten world’s fastest car list of 2013. The raging bull is powered by a 5.2-liter V10 engine delivering an incredible 570 hp and 3983 ft lbs of torque at 6,500 rpm. The car accelerates from 0 to 124 mph in 10.2 seconds. Yet another fierce bull.

    10. Ferrari 458 Italia
    Ferrari 458 Italia
    Top Speed: 201 mph (323 km/h)
    0–60 mph: 3.0 seconds
    Price: $229,825

    Last but not list, it is the Ferrari 458 Italia that makes into the top ten list of fastest car in the world. The top speed of 201 mph may not as fast as other cars in the top 9 but the Ferrari 458 Italia has a very impressive accelerate power. All it takes is just 3 seconds from 0-60 mph and continue relentlessly to 124 mph in 9.2 seconds and 180 mph in 23.3 seconds up till its maximum of 201 mph. Under the hood, it is powered by a 4.5-liter V8 engine that produces 562 hp and 400 lb-ft or torque. $229,825 is definitely worth for all the technology packed into this super exotic sports car.

    Click here to see Fastest car in the world (2013) part one

  • Fastest car in the world (2013)

    The list of top 10 fastest cars in the world of 2013 has some changes compared to the 2012 list. This time, there won’t be Hennessey Venom GT (260 mph top speed), Koenigsegg Agera R (260 mph top speed), SSC Ultimate Aero (257 mph top speed), Saleen S7 Twin-Turbo (248 mph top speed), Koenigsegg CCX (245 mph top speed), or Ferrari Enzo (217 mph top speed) in the list because we tends to include something fresh into it. Ready, Set, Go!

    1. Bugatti Veyron Super Sport
    Bugatti Veyron Super Sport
    Top Speed: 268 mph (431 km/h)
    0–60 mph: 2.4 seconds
    Price: $2.4 million

    Well, it is still the Bugatti Veyron Super Sport a.k.a “King of Speed” top the list as the fastest car in the world of 2013. It achieves a heart-beating top speed of 268 mph or to be more accurate the record is 267.856 mph (431.072 km/h), that’s 50 mph faster than the car ranked number two in the list. The 1,200 HP 8.0L W 16 engine is said to be able to heat up the entire village during winter time. See something similar on top? There are two 2.4, one being the 2.4 seconds from 0-60 mph and another being the $2.4 million price tag. The price tag is definitely worth for it compared to some other super cars available in the market right now. Can you take off your shirt in 2.4 seconds?

    2. Lamborghini Aventador LP700
    Lamborghini Aventador LP700
    Top Speed: 217 mph (350 km/h)
    0–60 mph: 2.9 seconds
    Price: $376,000

    The Lamborghini Aventador has relentless force, fearless look, and timeless powerhouse. These combinations generate a scary top speed of 217 mph (350 km/h). The Italian bull is powered by a 6.5L V12 engine pumping 700hp and 690 Nm of maximum torque @ 5,500rpm. From zero to 60 mph, all it takes is just 2.9 seconds. Every Aventador is handcrafted inItaly. The car frame is built with carbon fiber monocoque with aluminium front and rear frames to reduce its total weight. Such a car, such a speed, and such a performance, it deserves double thumbs up!

    3. Ferrari F12 Berlinetta
    Ferrari F12 Berlinetta
    Top Speed: 211 mph (340 km/h)
    0–62 mph: 3.1 seconds
    Price: $343,385

    The Ferrari F12 Berlinetta is currently the fastest Ferrari production car ever with the most powerful engine from Ferrari – a 6.3L V12 engine generating 730hp. The car was launched few months ago and we can surely see tons of it running on the road in 2013. From 0-100km/h it takes 3.1 seconds and it has something better than others – the durability. From 0-200km/h all it takes is 8.5seconds. That’s a record that many cars couldn’t achieve.

    4. Ferrari FF
    Ferrari FF
    Top Speed: 208 mph (334 km/h)
    0–62 mph: 3.7 seconds
    Price: $295,000

    The Ferrari FF may not have a sleekly design and it looks like a normal hatch back with its four-seater design. However, it is still a Ferrari. Under the hood, it was fitted with a four-wheel drive 6.3L V12 engine producing 651hp. That makes it not a normal hatch back but one of the fastest cars in the world with a top speed of 208mph. Another great record the FF achieved is the 11 seconds record from 0-124mph.

    5. SRT Viper
    2013 SRT Viper
    Top Speed: 206 mph (331 km/h)
    0–60 mph: 3.3 seconds (estimated)
    Price: $100,000

    The Dodge Viper will be back in 2013 without the Dodge badge. This time, it is powered by an 8.4-liter V-10 engine with a stiffer block casting, lighter valvetrain, and forged pistons that produces a mere 640hp @ 6150rpm and 600 lb-ft of torque @ 4950rpm. Paired with a six-speed transmission, the 2013 SRT Viper has a predicted top speed of 206 mph. Thanks to the forged aluminum wheels and composite intake, the curb weight of the Viper is estimated at only 3300 lb. 640hp on a 3300 lb weight is what make the SRT Viper slipped into the list of fastest car in the world.

    Click here to see Fastest car in the world (2013) part two

  • Walmart car battery prices

    Car Battery
    As far as I know, Walmart car battery prices may vary depending on the store location. Customers may end up paying different price for a same battery at different store location. I came across this because I am a regular customer of Walmart. Walking into their automotive store and check out the car battery prices has become one of my hobby. Surprisingly, many people actually do not know Walmart is selling car battery and has hundreds of different types of batteries sitting in their store. Moreover, Walmart car battery prices are often cheaper than some other stores especially during promotions period.

    Walmart car batteries can be found under Wal-Mart Tire & Lube Express section. In Walmart store, one of the most sought-after car battery brands is the EverStart. This is because EverStart batteries are exclusively available only in Walmart. EverStart offers a few types of lead acid batteries that are suitable to use for cars, trucks, SUVs, or heavy-duty vehicles at affordable price with great performance. Many of the EverStart batteries provide adequate starting power that meets manufacturer’s specifications and suitable for all-weather climates.

    Warranty wise, some of the batteries such as EverStart 96R, 86FT, 36-R-3, 51R-4, 58R-3, 51-4, and 41-4 comes with 24 months free replacement. Consumers who prefer a little bit more security have an alternative to try another famous battery which is Champion. Most of the Champion car batteries come with a 36-month free replacement warranty including Champion CHAM-24F, CHAM-65N, CHAM-75N, CHAM-H6, CHAM-34N, CHAM-35N, and others. In the recent years, some of the warranty period has dropped to just 12 months. This is one reason why there are some car batteries come with only one-year warranty. Other than EverStart and Champion, Walmart sells EXIDE, BOSCH, DieHard, and AAA. All these batteries are manufactured by few famous manufacturers including Johnson Controls, East Penn, JCI, and Exide.

    Besides car batteries, Wal-Mart Tire & Lube Express section also has some other parts that are important to maintain a car well. These include battery charger, battery box to protect the battery, booster cables, heavy-duty battery terminal, battery cables, jump start cables, and battery monitor.

    When is the best time to buy a car battery from Walmart?

    The best time to buy a car battery from Walmart is when a particular store is clearing out the overstock battery, which means a great promotion or a good discount. This happens when a manager lowers the price for a particular item to clear stock. In order to know when will be a next promotion, it is recommended to join Walmart customer mailing list.

    Why buy from Walmart?

    • Without doubt, Walmart provides one of the most convenient ways to get a car battery replaced.
    • Walmart provides a free installation by professionals.
    • Walmart offers a core charge – they take in old battery and a discount will be given on the new battery.
    • Prices for batteries in Walmart are from $29 up to $350 depending on the brand, model, performance, and size.

    In conclusion, Walmart has over 2,400 stores across United States. As a Walmart customer, I used to charge my car battery at one of the store in L.A. for just $2.50 when my car alternator is giving problems. How convenient it is! If you have never buy a battery from Walmart, ill strongly suggest you to do that at least once.

  • Google self-driving car hit Nevada’s Street

    Google Car

    We have heard of Google robotic car that will drive itself years back and now it is no longer just a dream. Yesterday, Google self-driving car officially licensed in Nevada and it takes a blind man for spin. This blind man is legally pleased in the front passenger seat and he just let the Google car handles everything.

    The Google car is a Prius with 100,000 miles on it. It is equipped with GPS, radar, radio sensors, Artificial Intelligence software, and video cameras to actually “see” the traffic as well as pedestrians. The rest of the vehicle parts are nothing special but just an ordinary Prius. It is driving all by itself at Nevada’s curviest road without hitting anything. The first blind man who sat in the Google self-driving car is 95% blind and he is far beyond legally blind. The Google car knows where to stop and where to turn base on Google maps and Google on-the-road images. There are no hands, no feet, and it is totally nothing. We are pretty sure this blind man had a great time in Google Car.

    The license to this driverless car requires at least two humans to be in the car at all times, with one typically in the front seat ready to take over the control in case of emergencies. Earlier in spring, Google mentioned “safely completed over 200,000 miles of computer-led driving.” However, safety issues are still consumers’ biggest concern.

    Google robotic car

    Car manufacturers spent millions of dollars to develop a new car and have them to crash into walls to test the safety just to produce a reliable and safety car. Although the Google car does not have to crash into walls, it has costs billions of efforts to develop a robotic car or self-driving car like that. At least up till this stage Google has marked a new milestone for the automatic car project and this has allowed us to imagine the future roads with unlimited automatic cars. Well, there will be no more drivers flirting then.

    The license for autonomous vehicle features new red plate and an infinity symbol and AU letters. These “test vehicles” could be on demonstrations again anytime on the road in Nevada. So Nevadians, stay tuned!

  • Best gas mileage SUV for savvy consumers

    While gas prices are on the rise again, owning a poor gas mileage SUV definitely is not a good idea. On the contrary, owning the best gas mileage SUV is what a smart consumer will do. In our complete car buying guide, one main thing to consider when buying a new car is the gas mileage. Generally, vehicles with poor gas mileage have bad resale value compared to vehicles with good gas mileage. We couldn’t control the gas price but we could plan well and buy a fuel efficient car. Most SUVs did not have good fuel economy due to the body size and weight. However, it doesn’t mean that you have to pay more on the gas. There are still many fuel efficient SUVs out there in the market if you fall in love with the off-road capability, body style, and the stoutness. For those who are into SUVs but prefer a fuel efficient model, take a look at these top five options.

    MINI Cooper Countryman

    2012 MINI Cooper S Countryman
    MSRP Price: $22,450
    The 2012 MINI Cooper Countryman is a stylish small SUV/crossover that offers a great fuel economy of 27 mpg city/35 mpg highway/ 30 combined mpg. It runs like a proper MINI Cooper. The astonishing exterior and high fuel-efficient engines might persuade a lot of SUV buyers but the cramped backseat may discourage some. As such, choices include the Kia Soul and Nissan Juke often comes in mind when a person is buying an SUV. For those who don’t mind making a few sacrifices for the sake of enjoyment and fuel efficiency, this is the best small SUV in its segments.

    Toyota Highlander Hybrid

    Toyota Highlander SUV Hybrid
    MSRP Price: $38,715
    While hybrid sedans are getting more common, it is only a matter of time until hybrid technology migrated to all SUVs. The 2012 Toyota Highlander is considered one best mid-size SUV to own. It is slightly bigger than the MINI Countryman with bigger cargo capacity and superior passenger room. SUV shoppers hardly refuse this most fuel-efficient seven-seater vehicle that offers a smooth ride with all-wheel-drive option, a comfortable interior, an elegant exterior, and a fantastic fuel economy of 28 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. Competitors include the 2012 Honda CR-V and 2012 Kia Sorento.

    GMC Yukon Hybrid (Also known as Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid)

    GMC Yukon Hybrid
    MSRP Price: $53,465
    The debut of the GMC Yukon Hybrid once again reminds people that a large SUV with decent towing capacity can also comes with great fuel economy. At 20 mpg city/23 mpg highway/21 combined mpg, the car accelerates well without sacrificing the power. Large SUV with less than 15 mpg is no longer a way of life. The V8 engine works well to transport up to eight passengers and gives a towing capacity of 6,200 lbs. In official crash testing, the 2012 GMC Yukon Hybrid scored an overall rating of four out of five stars. As for price, it will however cost more.

    Lexus RX 450h Hybrid

    Lexus RX 450h SUV Hybrid
    MSRP Price: $45,235
    Although it is expensive compared to the non-hybrid version, the Lexus RX 450h SUV is still a better choice in long run with its impressive fuel economy. The Lexus RX 450h is an SUV that packs luxurious, power, fuel efficient, comfortable, and smooth ride into one piece. Paired with an electric motor, the 3.5-liter V6 engine achieves better fuel economy for city drive compared to the all-time best seller Honda Civic. 32/28/30 mpg is the numbers that you get for a luxury SUV in between $40,000 to $50,000.

    Audi Q5 Quattro

    2012 Audi Q5 Quattro
    MSRP Price: $40,775
    The 2012 Audi Q5 Quattro is one of the large-size SUVs that achieve 20 mpg in city drive except the Lexus RX 450h and the 2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class. The Q5 is famous for its safety, reliable, and luxury interior with top-notch craftsmanship. This is one good choice for savvy consumers for look for the safest SUV. Backseats are roomy, handling is superb, and ride is smooth. Standard equipment on the car includes a set of cool 18-inch wheels, automatic headlights, eight-way power front seats, automatic wipers, leather upholstery, a sliding and reclining 40/20/40 rear seat, and a multi-function multimedia screen at the center console. With 20/27/22 mpg, the Audi Q5 made itself into the top five best SUVs list.

    In a nutshell, saving a few miles per gallon on gas could turn into few thousand dollars in the end of the day. A vehicle with extra 3 mpg will give you an extra 300 miles for 300 gallons of gas. Why not?