The Bissell brand is a trusted vacuum brand in our home. We've owned two Bissells, and when we moved to a larger home, we decided to upgrade to a larger model since we have wall to wall carpeting. We weren't sure if Bissell had built a more durable home vacuum until we stumbled upon the monstrosity known as the Bissell Heavy Duty Vacuum Model 50C9-1. Retailing around $200, this is an investment worth every penny.
Power. The Bissell Heavy Duty Vacuum is just that- heavy. You can definitely feel the weight behind this stand-up vacuum. This can be attributed to not just one, but two motors to drive the brush. My right forearm will be much larger than my left's after six months of use. I've dredged up dirt that felt like it was two feet below my home's foundation.Yet with all this power, your carpet is spared from damage. The cyclonic action traps and keeps more dirt in the canister (no bags, please).
Control. Controls and attachments are fairly easy. It has a special button to stop and start the brush. This allows you to use the hand attachments and hose action without your brush constantly running, adding more power to your vacuum when cleaning those pesky wall corners or ceiling cobwebs. The Bissell Heavy Duty is great for floors as well. It is remarkably easy to move around, despite its 15-inch cleaning width. This isn't built for small apartments.
Special Features. There are other little bells and whistles to make vacuuming more convenient. The Bissell Heavy Duty comes with lights for the dark corners, the usual hand and hose attachments and an upholstery turbo brush. But my favorite feature on the Bissell Heavy Duty is the canister's design. I have bad allergies and have been known to cause a dust-up and a sneeze fest when emptying a full canister. The Bissell Heavy Duty canister has a push button release that allows for a no-mess garbage dumping.
Even if you still have doubts about the Bissell's quality of design, the five-year warranty should give you peace of mind. If you don't like changing belts frequently, this vacuum's belt has a lifetime warranty as well. If you are a self-maintenance kind of person, be advised: trying to change this belt voids the warranty. You're supposed to take it to a certified repairman if you suspect the belt is damaged. But I doubt that will happen anytime soon with this vacuum.
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With summer closer than expected, many summer traditions have already taken. That means we'll see more BBQs, picnic, trips to beach and road trips this season. Another summer tradition taken place is getting your ride out of the garage and into the streets. Here is a list of mid-atlantic region car shows.
June 7: War On Wheels, Budds Creek, MD. Each year, Maryland International Raceway holds these specails Wednesday Night racings events 2 times a year. Watch Racecars, Street Cars, Street Bikes battle it out in grudge races. You'll also see Outlaw Street and Real Street (10” tire classes), plus a Test and Tune format with a FREE $1,000 to win Gambler's Race. In addition, these events are where ladies are admitted free. Admission: $20, Kids 6-11 are $5. WOW2 will be held on August 2nd.
June 10: The 5th Annual Maryland Rotary/Muscle car BBQ, Millersville, MD. Entering it's 5th year, The Maryland Rotary/Muscle Car BBQ has been a gathering of the finest street rods, muscle cars, classic rides and more. This year's event will have free food and drink, dyno rides and some special guests. Previous special guest include Playboy Special Edition Model Kristen Jackson and Nopi Model/FHM 20 Hot Dates Model Amanda Gift.
Location: 403 Serendipity Dr in Millersville, MD. Admission: free
June 10: The Chrome 4 Critters Car Show and Bike Cruise, Bowie, MD. It's a car show with a purpose! It starts with bike rides from the Pikesville AMF Bowling Alley OR the All American Harley-Davidson in Hughesville, MD (NEW!), to Prince George's Stadium. The event also includes a classic car show, live music and a appearance from DC rollergirls. After the show, The Bowie Baysox has game that night. All proceeds from this event will go to CARA and other participating animal groups to help abuse and neglected animals.
Location: Ballpark Drive in Bowie, MD. Admission: $5 … Children under 12 get in FREE!
JUNE 10th: The Annual Downtown Leesburg Cruise, Downtown Leesburg, VA Old school rides take over Downtown Leesburg, VA from 6 PM to 10 PM. $3 donation for local charity requested for entry. 50' & 60's music. 1973 and older vehicles only. Presented by the Northern VA Rods & Classics Car Club. Due to limited space, pre-registration is requested. The raindate for this event is June 17th. For more information contact Bob Brown at (703)779-4772 or by Email at rbrown7581@verizon.net
June 10th-11th: Ocean City Car & Truck Show, Ocean City, MD. Entering it's 5th year, The Ocean City Car Show has grown into one of the must go destinations on the East Coast. It's a show of the hottest imports, domestic, bikes, trucks and more. In past couple of years, celebrities have made guest appearances at this event. Last year, Flavor Flav made an appearance at this show. This year, model Mai Tran and Surfer Matt Keenan are among the special guests at this year's show. Admission: $15
June 18th: Sully Plantation Father's Day Show, Chantilly, Va. A father's day tradition returns to Sully Plantation in Chantilly, VA. 400 show cars on the field, including 40 or more Model “A” Fords! 6,100 visitors. Two bands playing nostalgia, great food, great car judging and beautiful awards. In the judging arena we use about 50 volunteers, and judge about 175 cars, trucks and military vehicles in about 34 classes. It's presented by the Goerge Washington Chapter, Inc. Model A Ford of America Club and The Fairfax County Park Authority. Admission: $8 for Adults, $7 for Seniors and $5 for kids
June 23rd-25th: Carlisle All GM Nationals, Carlisle, PA. The Carlisle All GM Nationals has everything a GM fans needs…from a huge vendor midway and swap meet, to almost 2000 cars in the field covering everything from Muscle cars to concepts to modern creations. The display area will also include a GM Exhibit and Seminars; David North, former GM Chief E; and Bruce Larson, racing legend with his USA-1 Camaro. We will also feature a “Dealer’s Corner” that will showcase cars from local new car dealers. Admission: $7 on Friday, $8 on Saturday, and $6 on Sunday (Children 12 and under admitted free)
JUNE 24th: The Custom Cruisers of Northern VA 20th Anniversary Car Show, Lucketts, VA. The small town of Lucketts, VA will host this club's annual car show. This show will feature Street Rods, Street Machines, Customs,
Antiques, Muscle Cars, Classics (1981 and Older Vehicles Only), (No 4×4’s or motorcycles for the show field, please). It also have a variety of family entertainment. All proceeds go to local charities! Admission: $5 (Kids 12 & under free)
June 24th-25th: 19th Annual Mid-Atlantic Chevelle Show and Swap Meet – ACES Northeast, Northeast, MD. If you love Chevelles, this show is for you! The “LARGEST gathering of Chevelles on the East Coast” is scheduled for June 24 & 25, 2006! at the North East Community Park in North East, Maryland. Located off exit 100 from I-95, it is centrally located in the town. North East Community Park is right on the Chesapeake Bay and provides a perfect picturesque background. It's open to all Chevelles from 1964-1987. Admission: free
July 4th: The 7th Annual Town of Culpeper 4th of July Show, Culpeper,VA. Clebrated July 4th with an Independence Day Car Show in Culpeper, VA. from 8 AM to 3 PM on Davis Street at The Depot. This is an open car show for all vehicles 72 and older plus motorcycles. Free to spectators! $10 pre-registration and $15 on site. Registration includes participation in Culpeper's Independence Day Parade. Top 50, live DJ, music, raffle and more! Call (540)825-4416 or Email cridirector@culpeperdowntown.com for more information.
July 7-9th: Carlisle All-Chrysler Nationals, Calisle, PA. It's 3 days of hemi madness on display in Carlise. Events include an old school/new school showdown, side-by-side display of concourse restorations vs. resto-moded models, a chance to see the Concept Challenger, dyno challenge, and appearances by pro wrestler/Automaniac host Bill Goldberg, Hemi legend Tom Hoover and drag racer Dick Landy. Admission: $8 on Friday and Sunday, and $6 on Saturday (kids 12 and under for free)
JULY 7-9th The 5th Annual York US 30 Musclecar Madness Show, York, PA. US 30 Musclecar Madness will present a re-visit to York US 30, which was one of the finest drag racing facilities in the country in its time, a reunion for the staff and management of this famous race track, and the Annual Reunion of the Legends of Drag Racing. York US 30 was site of the largest one day drag race in the nation in 1965 with the presentation of the Super Stock Nationals, which was aptly called “The Woodstock of Drag Racing”. Staff and Management of this popular facility will be in attendance to pay tribute to those days gone by. To visit and reminisce about the good old days. The show will host one of the biggest names in drag racing…”Big Daddy” Don Garlits and his Swamp Rat 1b dragster. In addition, the Third Annual Legion of Honor awards will be presented at the show on Saturday the 8th. Some of this year's recipients will be Paul Blevins, Danny Jesel, Wayne Jesel, “Rapid Red” Lang, Tom Raley, Pat Bilbow (posthumous), Don Garlits, Pee Wee Wallace, Frank LeSueur, and Dick “The Shadow” Belfatti. The finale of Super Nostalgia Weekend will take place at Beaver Springs Dragway on Sunday, July 9th with the presentation of the 3rd Annual York US 30 Nostalgia Nationals. It's gathering of the Drag racing greats on this 3 day weekend. Admission: n/a
July 7th: Celebrate Damascus Kick-Off Parade, Damascus MD. Starting at 7 PM at the Weis Market Shopping Center (Line Up at 6 PM). Heading down Rt 27 to the Damascus Volunteer Fire Dept Carnival Grounds on Lewis Drive. Community groups, local businesses, tractors, fire engines, classic cars, bands and more will join together in a Parade to the Damascus Volunteer Fire Dept Carnival Grounds on Lewis Drive to kick off the Celebration of Damascus! Participants should pre-register for the parade by contacting Peggy Stone at (301)216-0004 or Tammy Newman at (301)253-3464. Afterwards, stay for free live oldies rock & roll entertainment by “The Shades” and food for sale by Damascus Volunteer Fire Dept. Visit the sponsors website at: http://www.damascuschevrolet.com.
July 8th: The 13th Annual Celebrate Damascus Cruise, Damascus MD. The cruise will be held at the Damascus Motors 26100 Woodfield Rd in Damascus, MD from 10 AM till 4 PM. Hosted by the Heart of Maryland Classic Chevy Club and Late Great Chevys of Maryland. All makes and models welcome! Dance to oldies music by Big Cam & The Lifters that evening at the Damascus Volunteer Fire Department Activities Building 10211 Lewis Drive in Damascus, MD from 8PM to 12 Midnight. $10 per person, snacks & sodas provided. Call for info or dance tickets at (301)829-0171 or (301)253-3464.
July 9th: The Christmas in July Car Show, Glen Burnie, MD. This year's charity car show will be held at the MVA Headquarters on Gov. Ritchie Highway in Glen Burnie MD to benefit the “toy run” for the Salvation Army. Registration is from 9 AM to 12 Noon. Sponsored by the Lost in the 50's Club of MD. $8 in advance, $10 day of show
Admission: free
July 9th: Dream Setters Car & Truck Show 2006, Delmar, DE. Dream Setters turn up the heat with latest car show at Bullfeathers Car Audio on 38481 Sussex Highway in Delmar, DE. It has club games, drag session and bike stunts. The night before the event, there will be a cruise of Ocean City, MD. Admission: Free
July 16th: The Vettes At Sterling Show, Sterling, VA. The Old Dominion Corvette Club (ODCC) of Loudoun County proudly presents the first annual all Corvette Show will be held at Sterling Chevrolet on Harry Byrde Highway in Sterling VA on Route 7. The show is open to all year Corvettes, gates open to participants at 9 AM and open to the public at 11 AM. This show is to benefit the Loudoun Abused Women’s Shelter (LAWS) which is the club’s Charity. It will be a popular vote show with demonstrations on car detailing, repairing paint chips and other subjects. There will be give-aways to all participants during the show. The shows spotlight will be on two original completely restored Z06 1963 Tanker Split Window Coupes that will be on display, along with several other “Special Corvettes”.Admission: free
July 22nd: The 17th Annual All Corvette Cruise-in, Manassas, VA. This year's event will be held in the Best Buy parking lot (7787 Sudley rd) in Manassas, VA from 5 PM till 9 PM. Hosted by Still Cruisin' Corvettes. Admission is free, vendors are welcome. Dash Plaques to the first 200 Corvettes. Mr. DJ playing oldies tunes. Great food and beverages at Big Joe's Pizza. For information on the event call Chuck or Fredi Berge at (703)754-1960 or Fax at (703)754-1222.
July 23rd:American Iron Show & Drags, Manassas, VA. The American Iron Show and Drag Race takes place at Old Dominion Speedway in Manassas VA (rain date July 30th). Watch American muscle cars race it out on the dragstrip, and you see the some of the best street rods, classic cars and domestic rides on display. Admission: $15 for adults, $6 youth tickets, and kids 5 and under are free. Call the track beforehand.
July 29th: Pony Car Showdown II, Williamsport, MD. The United States Muscle Car Foundation presents it's 2nd annual Pony Car Showdown from 9 AM to 4 PM at the Williamsport Redmans Club in Williamsport, MD. As part of the Autorama, It's a display of the finest American Made Muscle Cars: Camaros, Mustangs, Courgars, Firebird/Trans Am, Barracuda, and more. The show laso features music, fun activities and more. Admission: tba
July 29-30th: Modern Custom Nationals, Petersburg, VA. DropJaw and Virginia Motorsports Park in Dinwiddie (Petersburg), VA. are joining forces to create a new custom car show for the East Coast and Southern Regions. This is going to be the crowning event of the year to crown the Kings of the Show Scene (Truck King, Car King, 4X4 King, Lowrider King, Luxury King). This show will be exactly what you have come to expect at VMP: cruizin', many classes, stunt riders, draggin' contest, burnout contest, drag racing, sound competition, nighttime stage events and much much more.THIS WILL BE A CLEAN SHOW! Bring the competition because that is what this show is all about!! Admission: tba
August 4-5th: End Of Summer Bash, Bristol, VA. the promoters that brought you Pumpkin Run we bring to you new in 2006 End of Summer Bash!! This year's event will be at Bristol Mall in Bristol, VA. Cruise-In Friday Night, Live DJ, Club Games, Best Car, Best Truck, Specialty Awards, Classes for All Makes and Models. Proceeds from this show will go Murphey the fire dog of the Bristol Tennessee Fire Department. Admission: free, but check the website
August 4-6th: Carlisle All Truck Nationals, Carlisle, PA. The Carlisle All Truck Nationals has everything a truck lover needs…from a huge vendor midway and swap meet, to almost 2000 trucks in the field covering everything from mini's to big rigs! New entertainment this year – Freestyle Motocross Show – be up-close with X-games type tricks. The show also has a Rock Crawl, RTI ramp, the truck balance beam and you cannot forget about the burnout, bikini, high/low, hydro, and neon contests. Tons of new things are planned for the 2006 show. And with me as the new show manager, the show will have fresh “trucker minded” ideas. For more info visit www.carsatcarlisle.com
Admission: $8 on Friday and Sunday, $9 on Saturday (Children 12 and under admitted free)
August 12th: Firestorm 4, Waldorf, MD. The people behind the Rolling Thunder Rallies in Southern Maryland brings you the 4th installment of their annual Mid-Atlantic American/Import Hotrod, Bike and Truck Fest. Once held at local sports bars, This year's event will be at Sheehy Nissan / Mitsubishi on 2950 Crain Highway in Waldorf, MD. It's show of american and foreign cars, trucks, and bikes. Admission: Free
August 12th: 7th Annual MDA Car Show, Prince George VA. This charity car show takes place at Richard Bland College located in Beautiful Prince George, VA from 11 AM to ??. The show is sponsored by the Southern Knights Cruisers, Inc. in partnership with corporations such as Hardee's, Srosnider Chevrolet of Hopewell VA, and Collision One, Inc. of Mechancisville VA. Proceeds will go to help Muscular Dystrophy Patients in Virginia though the MDA. This show has raised over $117,000 over the past 6 years. There will be lots of door prizes, dash plaques to 1st 200 registered, BIG Trophies with Best of Show for each class. Also, Large Trophies in Specialty Classes. Large Plaques to Top 25 in Pre-1955 Class, Top 25 in 1955 to 1973 Class, and Top 25 in 1974 and Newer Class. Pre-registered Prize Drawing & Grand Prize Drawings (must be present to win). Just make your check out to MDA and it's all tax deductible. Must be registered and set up by 11 AM to be Judged. Vendor space available. Raffle drawing for GM 350 Chevy Crate Engine at the show. Tickets 1/$2 or 3/$5. Live Auction, and more…
Admission: free
August 13th: DUB Magazine 6th annual Custom Car Show and Concert, Chantilly, VA. Dub magazine know for showcasing clebrities, their lifestyles and their vehicles. 6 years ago, they took it on the road, and the rest is history. This event has the finest custom rides, live performances from the hottest name in hip-hop, and more. This year's tour makes its 1st visit to the Washington, DC area. Admission: $20 in advance.
August 19-20th: The Good, The Bad & The Ugly, Petersburg, VA. Dropjaw and Virginia Motorsports Park join forces to bring you another great event. Formerly known as the Xtreme Nationals, This is a show for all types of rides at any level that the ride is in – it will only costs you $15 for you and your ride to get in the gate. Everyone's welcome to come out and show what ya got. This is a daytime show with no nighttime events, but the nighttime party is at the motel. It's everything that you have come to love at the VMP so be lookin out for a good time. Admission: tba
August 27th: The 10th Annual Mid-Maryland Ford Fest, Hagerstown, MD. For those who have driven a ford lately, Mason Dixie Dragway in Hagerstown is holding their annual All Ford Show and Drag Race. Watch old school and new school Ford battle it out for prizes and bragging right. Plus, you can check the finest fords on display! Admission: n/a
September 1st: Fifth Annual Cruisin' Main Street Frostburg!, Frostburg, MD. Miss those good old days? Relive those wonderful days of Rock n' Roll, cruisin' Main Street, boppin at the Malt Shop, and just hanging out listening to some great tunes on the radio. You'll find it all at the Fifth Annual Cruisin' Main Street Frostburg. If you are lucky enough to own a great car from that era, you can join in this American Graffiti style cruise by parading it in front of hundreds of appreciative spectators lining Main Street, Frostburg. Be there!!! Admission: free
Sepetmber 2nd: Super Kids Classic Car Show, Prince George, VA. This show will be held at the Prince George High School at 7801 Laurel Springs Rd in Prince George, VA. $2500 CASH AWARDS! Open show to All Classic, Customs, Street Rods, Trucks, Special Interest and Imports thru Years 2006. Top 25 in early to 1954 Class, Top 25 in 1955-1972 Class, Top 25 in 1973-2006 Class, Awards for Longest Distance, Hard Luck, Best of Show, Best General Motors, Best Ford, Best Chrysler, Best Other, Best Truck, Best Interior, Best Paint, Best Engine and Best Club Participation. Dash Plaques to 1st 200 registered. Pre-registration and Grand prize drawing – must be parked by 11 AM to be judged. Bring your family and friends and see Miss Virginia 2006. Good food, entertainment, and fun displays. Live auction, door prizes, and more. Also, special NASCAR AUCTION. Raffle items: Stihl commercial chain saw, Husky air compressor, and Husquvarna gas leaf blower. ALL Proceeds to benefit Super Kids Ministries, Inc. Sponsored by Hopewell/Prince George Civitians Club and Logistics Management Resources, Inc. Registration Fee is $15. Pre-register by 8/16 or $20 day of show. Vendors Welcomed. Admission: Free
Sepetmber 3rd: Bug-out 60, Manassas, VA. Bug Out is recognized as the premier National VW event of the year. Exclusive to Old Dominion Speedway, Bug-out is the place for Volkswagens of all types from Vintage to Ultra Modern. From admirers to collectors and everything in between, Bug-out has it all; specialty vendors, new car dealers, aftermarket specialists, tuners, parts suppliers, custom fabricators, you name it!!! Bring your VW and show it, drag race it, even slalom events all designed to test you and your VW capabilities. Attendees can enjoy acres and acres of things to do and see; novelty and specialty clothing items too!! Be there for the Miss Bug-out Bathing Suit Contest; cast your vote loudly for this year’s Miss Bug-out. This event is held on Memorial Day and Labor Day Weekends. Admission: $15 (kids 11 and under free).
Sepetmber 9th: 27th Annual Endless Summer Car & Motorcycle Show, Laurel, MD. This end of summer show is a benefit the Laurel Lions Foundation. It's held from 9 AM to 4 PM at McCollough Field between 8th & 9th Streets in Laurel MD. Large display of antique/custom cars, trucks, & motorcycles. Midway with live entertainment and vendors for the whole family. Spectators free! Preregistration-$12, Day of Show $15. Contact the Laurel Lions Club at (301)483-9807 (x5) or email at montym1@comcast.net.
Sepetmber 10th: 1969 & Back Hot Rod and Rockabilly Show, Fredericksburg, VA. This year's show is hosted by the Accelerators Car Club, and it's being held at Mark Long Motorcycles is located at 68 Cool Springs Rd in Fredericksburg VA. All cars, trucks & motorcycles made on or before 1969 are welcome. 5 live rockabilly bands, live dj, 50/50 raffle, lots of food, games, vendors, door prizes, plus a tattoo contest at 12 noon hosted by Sparkplug Tattoo, moon bounce for the kids, there will be old skool pinstipers on hand to pinstripe your car from Razor Custom Paint, show t-shirts for sale, plus come check out the huge Mark Long Motorcycles show room…plenty of motorcycles & hot rods for sale.
Sepetmber 17th: Show of Shows, Manassas, VA. This very special event features the regions best Top Sportsmen cars, Dragsters, Footbrake Stock Cars, and Motorcycles. It’s a semi-annual event exclusive to Old Dominion Speedway and recognized as one of the top bracket racing events in the region. Spectacular competitors completing for large purses, drag race special exhibitions, car show competitions, and more. It takes place at Old Dominion Speedway and dragstrip.
Admission: either $15 or $20
Sepetmber 17th: 14th Annual Alzheimer's Association Benefit Car & Truck Show, Frederick, MD. Heart of Maryland Classic Chevy Club is hosting this show at the Frederick Motor Vehicle Administration 1601 Bowman's Farm Road in Frederick, MD from 10 AM to 4 PM (rain date is OCT 1st). Open to all makes and models. Features an auction at noon of donated items including memorabilia from 75 & 80 Dragway! For more information call Earl at (301)371-4280 or Butch at (301)845-4239. Admission: free
Sepetmber 30th: The 7th Annual Showdown in Damascus Custom Car, Truck and Bike Show, Damascus, MD. Another great car show is taking place at Damascus Chevrolet on Rt.124 in Damascus MD from 9:30 AM to 4 PM. All makes and models from stock to mild to wild. Benefits Hospice Caring. Over 70 awards…plus…KING of the BURNOUTS!! Food and vendors welcome. $10 registration fee, spectators are free
October 7th: The 16th Annual Back to Bethesda Car & Motorcycle Show to benefit The Children's Inn at NIH will be held from 11 AM to 4 PM at Chevy Chase Cars, 7725 Wisconsin Ave. in Bethesda MD. Areas finest display of custom, classic, antique, and modified cars, trucks & motorcycles. Over 30,000 spectators! Spectators free! Preregistration is $15 and $18 on the day of the show. Contact Ron Evanish at (301)657-4001 (x1900) or email at ron_evanish@chevychasecars.com
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Best Cars of the Decade
I'm not too keen on cars. As of now I am just beginning to understand what makes them run. I hope to soon learn more about cars and possibly work on them in the near future. One can be paid very well as a mechanic. Still, I took the liberty of writing this article to inform the reader and myself. I hope the information is good for you and if there is anything you'd like to add in the form of a comment, please feel free to do so.
1. Dodge Charger – An American automobile manufactured by Chrysler, under the Dodge brand name. There have been several different Dodge vehicles on three different platforms bearing the Charger nameplate.
“The Dodge Charger is a full-size, four-door sedan that makes a bold design statement and backs it up with serious horsepower. A wide range of models is available, but all are comfortable cruisers, offering drivers a friendly haven from traffic and bumpy freeways.
The model line ranges from the sporty and entertaining 2.7-liter Charger SE to the 425-hp SRT8. Between them are 3.5-liter V6 and 5.7-liter V8 models. The 3.5-liter V6 delivers entirely adequate performance for the mid-grade SXT model, while the V8s generate thrilling acceleration performance and make all the right noises.
All-wheel drive is available for all-weather capability.
The Charger illustrates just how multi-talented and accomplished today's high-performance cars are compared to the one-dimensional hot rods of yesteryear. The Charger has all the pavement-ripping, gut-thumping power of the old muscle cars, but it's packaged with modern creature comforts and tempered by handling competency. Put another way, it rides, turns and stops as well as it goes.
The Charger is fun to drive and enjoyable for just cruising along. It's perfectly in its element when making time on a freeway. It is a big, heavy, full-size sedan measuring more than 16 feet in length and tipping the scales near two tons, but it's responsive and entertaining.
For 2008, the Charger gets minor interior design changes and two new entertainment options. Newly available are Sirius Backseat TV for the rear entertainment system, and Dodge's MyGig, a 20 gigabyte hard drive that holds songs, pictures, and navigation system map information. The interior changes include a new instrument panel and center console, as well as upgraded soft-touch surfaces on the arm rests, center console and door trim. Dodge's UConnect hands-free cell-phone link is also upgraded with integrated iPod interface.” — Reviewed By: New Car Test Drive © 2008 NewCarTestDrive.com
2. Honda Accord – The series of mid-size automobiles put on by Honda since 1976.The Accord became the first Japanese car to be produced in the U.S. in 1982 in Marysville, Ohio at Honda's Marysville Auto Plant.The Accord has attained extensive sensation. In the United States, it was the best-selling Japanese car for fifteen years (1982-97) then hitting its peak in its division in sales in 1991 and 2001. Around ten million vehicles sold. Abundant in tests (past and present) count the Accord as one of the world's most steadfast vehicles.
Since initiation, Honda has offered several different body styles and adaptations of the Accord. For the current generation of the Accord out for the North American marketplace in 2008, Honda has chosen anew to update the model further upscale and augment its size. This pushed the Accord sedan from the greater limit of what the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines as a mid-size car to just above the lower perimeter of a full-size car.
“For my 16th birthday, my parents bought me my dream car- a silver 2008 Honda Accord LX-P. I'd been wanted this car ever since I'd seen it on the road. The moment they let me take the bow off the windshield and drive it, my life changed. I've had it for almost 4 months and I'm still just as crazy about it as I was the day I got it. My Accord gets almost 36 miles to the gallon and I drive it every day. The interior is just as spacious as my dad's 2006 Honda Pilot, but of course it's a lot more luxurious. The sound system is amazing and the auxiliary jack is perfect to play my iPhone out loud. All I had to do was buy a $3 cord from Wal-Mart and I've got an instant iHome for my car. The brakes on this car are stellar. They stop on a dime, perfect for the student parking lot at my school where other people drive their cars like they're drag racing. This car also accelerates rapidly, without sucking gas. Right now, I pay $20 every 1-2 weeks, perfect for a teenager who isn't allowed to have a job. This car also has the front end of a BMW and the rear end of a Mercedes-Benz or Jaguar. My friends with BMW's are actually jealous. Parents, this car is perfect for a teenager. Teens, this car is awesome. The only thing that I would change about it is, because I have the 4 door Sedan, it doesn't look quite as sporty as the Coupe. I wanted the 4 doors for convenience, but with that I sacrificed the sleeker model. Other wise it is the perfect car. I would recommend this Honda Accord to anyone who is on a budget but wants curb appeal. This car will definitely last me throughout high school and my first 4 years of college (I'll probably trade in for a 2015 Honda Accord before finishing my last 4 years). No need for an expensive sports car when you can get this car. The vehicle is definitely worth your money.” — September 12, 2009 By Kenzie from Tampa, FL, http://www.carmax.com/enUS/customer-reviews/2008-Honda-Accord-530.html
3. BMW 3 Series M3 – An efficient executive car contrived by the German automaker BMW since May 1975. Descendant to the BMW New Class, it has been fashioned in five different generations and in no less than five dissimilar body styles. It is BMW's best selling automobile. It sold at nearly 40% of the company's auto sales in 2005.
“The 3-series continues to be the very definition of a sports sedan, offering spectacular sports-car-like handling and impressive straight-line performance in a luxurious package. Nearly perfect handling, engines, and refinement make the 3-series tough to beat. Interior space remains tighter than in some competitors, and the iDrive control system can be a bit difficult to manage, although the latest version is vastly improved over previous iterations. Minor changes to the sedan and wagon are subtle and hardly noticeable.” — http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/car/08q4/09_bmw_3-series_m3_sedan_coupe_wagon_and_cabrio-review
4. Chevrolet Corvette – A sports car. Man-made (at least in blue-print) by the Chevrolet department of General Motors in six generations since 1953.While sold under the Chevrolet name in the United States and other locations in the world, it is sold under its own Corvette name in Europe and Japan.
5. Ford Focus – Another small sized car presented to North America in 1999 for model year 2000. It is now in its second generation. The North American models were primarily co-developed with the international Focus which first appeared at the 1998 Paris Motor Show and were ultimately manufactured and sold worldwide.
First generation North American Focus models matched the international Focus using the C170 platform for sedan, hatchback (3 and 5-door), and wagon configurations.
Thee second generation North American Focus models persisted with the C170 platform beginning with 2008 model.
Focus models rank as the 40th bestselling automotive nameplate worldwide, with over 5 million sold. While U.S. sales of the Focus peaked in 2000 at 286,000 vehicles, the Wall Street Journal reported in May, 2009 an estimate that the Ford Focus lost as much as $1 billion a year.
“It's exactly a year since Ford unveiled its completely redesigned 2008 Focus at the 2007 Detroit auto show, and for a company desperately in need of a successful vehicle–especially in the newly fashionable compact segment–Ford needs its entry-level model to be a hit. The revamped Focus represents something of a radical styling departure from its predecessors. Out go the hatchback and wagon body styles of the previous generation, replaced with a more bulbous and curvaceous European design reminiscent of a squished Ford Mondeo. It is on the inside, however, that the game really changes for the 2008 Focus, with the availability of another product that headlined in Detroit last year: Ford Sync. Designed by Microsoft, and exclusive to Ford Motor products, Sync represents a quantum leap forward for Ford (and the auto industry in general) in terms of controlling in-car media and communications. Our 2008 Ford Focus tester was the review car we have seen with Sync (it comes as standard equipment on the SES), and, after testing it to its breaking point, we can report that despite a few niggles, we're impressed. I'm very impressed.” — Kevin Massy, http://reviews.cnet.com/sedan/2008-ford-focus-ses/4505-10865_7-32623084.html#cnetReview
6. Ford Mustang GT – An automobile produced by the Ford Motor Company. It was originally based on the compact second generation North American Ford Falcon.
Executive stylist John Najjar, who was a fan of the World War II P-51 Mustang fighter plane, suggested the name. An alternative view was that the Mustang name was first suggested by Robert J. Eggert.
The Mustang shaped the “pony car” grade of American automobile – sports car-like coupes with long hoods and short rear decks – giving rise to competitors: GM's Chevrolet Camaro, AMC's Javelin, and Chrysler's revamped Plymouth Barracuda.
Other pony cars have seen a recovery. The Mustang is the only original pony car that has steadied in production without disturbance after four decades of growth and modification.
” . . . Fortunately, today's Mustang, introduced three years ago, and is a superb example of the genre. The Mustang GT comes with a 300-hp V8 and is an absolute hoot to drive, making all the right sounds, hanging onto corners tenaciously, and delivering thrilling acceleration performance. The American pony car has never been better than the current Mustang GT.
The Mustang is available as a coupe or convertible. The Mustang V6 Deluxe is a nice cruiser and its 4.0-liter V6 engine is a solid performer, all for around $20,000. But the Mustang GT is what the Mustang is all about and the basis of the legend.
For 2008, a new Bullitt model joins the herd. Faithfully styled to celebrate the hero car in the famous chase scene starring Steve McQueen, the 2008 Mustang Bullitt is tuned to a higher level than the standard GT. Some media have positioned the Bullitt as nothing more than a hopped up Mustang, but that sells what's going on here a bit short. Rather than simply bolting on some modifications and re-tuning the setup, Ford took the higher road, thoroughly re-engineering and painstakingly massaging the Bullitt to attain its additional performance. In other words, they did it the hard way, the right way. Ford used technology learned from development of the Shelby cars, and the chief engineer for the Mustang says technology gained from the development of the Bullitt will be used in the next-generation Mustang. In any case, the Bullitt is more responsive than the Mustang GT. We found the Bullitt to be superbly balanced, making for a more enjoyable, more sophisticated car to drive on a daily basis, a car that responds beautifully to the driver's whims. Ford plans to build about 7,000 Bullitt models.
For 2008, three Shelby models are available: The 319-hp Shelby GT comes in coupe and convertible form along with the 540-hp Shelby GT500KR coupe. The Shelby GT500 offers near-Corvette performance and we found it easy to drive, and fun for gymkhanas, race tracks or back roads. Its solid rear axle is bouncy on bad pavement, however, and all this comes at a substantial price increase.
For 2008, front side airbags come standard on all Mustangs, and high-intensity discharge headlights and interior ambient lighting are newly available.
While it's styling is retro inspired, the Mustang is a thoroughly modern car. Redesigned from a clean sheet of paper for 2005, the current Mustang is fast and agile, more so than any past Mustangs. It delivers the bold styling, rear-drive performance and affordability that have been Mustang hallmarks for decades, but it's smoother and quieter and better built than older models.
The interior looks like a throwback from the '60s, and we think it's really neat. We just wish the interior materials were a wee better. A navigation system is available and it works well.” — Reviewed By: New Car Test Drive © 2008 NewCarTestDrive.com
7. Mazda Miata – The two-seater roadster sports car built by Mazda in Hiroshima, Japan. The model was presented in 1989 and is now in its third production.
Construction of the third-generation MX-5, code NC, began May 17, 2005 for sell in August for the 2006 model year. Primarily due to the waning sales of the MX-5 during its second generation course.
The exterior styling resembles the original design, but the NC shares no components with the NB. With the exception of the side-panel turning-lights on non-USA models.
The suspension has changed from a 4-wheel double wishbone setup to a front wishbone/rear multilink setup. Technologies like traction control and stability control were supplemented to encourage drive ability.
For the USA, the engine is the new 16-valve, 2.0 L (120 cu in) MZR I4, producing 170 bhp (130 kW) and 140 ft·lbf (190 N·m) grouped to either a 5-speed or a 6-speed manual transmission or 158 bhp (118 kW) with the optional 6-speed automatic transmission. A limited slip differential is available with the 6-speed option.
A six-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters is possible. A test by Car and Driver magazine revealed a 0-60 mph (97 km/h) time of 6.5 s for the 2.0 L (120 cu in) U.S.-spec NC. Manufacturer figures for the European-spec model are: 0-100 km/h (62 mph) in 9.4 s (1.8 L (110 cu in)) and 7.9 s (2.0 L (120 cu in)).
The NC was unveiled with a special edition called “3rd Generation Limited” which attributed added chrome accents and special wheels. Thirty-five-hundred were built worldwide, delivered in advance of standard models.
The NC offers a wider range of accessories for customization than the earlier generations. Like soft-top instead of vinyl can now be chosen in more colors: black, cream, grey, camel, blue and green. The interior can be customized to match the exterior paint color.
“Great overall car and it defines the sports car genre. This car was made to put a smile on your face. It's great on gas (24mpg overall), inexpensive to insure and maintain, and with the retractable hardtop, it's now the best of both worlds-convertible and coupe. Sure you can spend more on a sports car, but the Miata is just plain fun. It does everything well, and is a perfect match for most simple needs. The dealership service department where I bought my car is great too and not to be overlooked, because it's also about the customer-service department relationship. One word of caution is the loss of value for some strange reason. Maybe it's the limited market segment the Miata appeals to, or the dealership availability, but buys it and drives it, and you'll not want to be without one, so the trade-in value issue is moot. Is the Miata perfect? No, but then no automobile is. It's not about being the best in any category; it's about being the best well-rounded choice. In today's world it's rare to find something capable of putting smiles on our faces like the Miata can, while being economically and environmentally responsible.” — LAMP1, http://autos.yahoo.com/2009_mazda_mx_5_miata-review_user/?reviewId=2&trimId=26291
8. Mazda MX5 – Read information about the third generation Mazda Miata. It is the same car different name and features.
9. Porsche Boxster – A mid-engine roadster built by Porsche and planned by Harm Lagaay. The Boxster is Porsche's first vehicle that was originally designed as a roadster. Previous Porsche convertibles were based on hardtop coupes.
In 2005, Porsche unveiled the new generation of Boxsters: the type 987. The 987 is stronger than its forerunner. Featuring styling inspired by the Carrera GT. Engine output increased in 2007 when both Boxster models obtained the engines from their parallel Porsche Cayman alternatives. In 2009, the Boxster models received several new surface and mechanical improvements. With increased engine output and performance.
The Boxster's name is a portmanteau (I wish I knew what that word meant) of the word “boxer”. It refers to the vehicle's horizontally-opposed engine. Additionally, the word “roadster” refers to the vehicles two seat capacity and convertible top.
“Editors at TheCarConnection.com are big fans of Porsche styling-and you can see it at its best on the 2009 Porsche Boxster. The overall look is elegant and purposeful.
On the exterior, the 2009 Porsche Boxster is pure Porsche. According to Edmunds reviewers, the “2009 Porsche Boxster sports car comes as either the basic Boxster or the massaged, pricier Boxster S are visually similar except for the additional center front grille opening, red brake calipers and dual exhaust outlets on the S.” Motor Trend notes that “in an effort to add masculinity, the new face is dominated by noisier air inlets and headlamps that each get two round beams arranged diagonally like a 917 race car's to impart a more menacing mien.” Edmunds reports that base and S-model Limited Edition trims are “basically a retro paint theme with orange paint covering the exterior and parts of the interior.” The new Special Edition is offered only in Carrera White with black upholstery, light gray striping, and a gray convertible top. Fewer than 50 Special Editions will be built.
Kelley Blue Book reviewers are also pleased to note “styling carries over from the subtle, but effective muscular enhancement of the fender lines that debuted in 2005.” Autoblog says “styling modifications have been minimal, with updates to the front fascia and LED headlamps.” Even without those updates, reviews read by TheCarConnection.com show universal approval of the exterior styling of the 2009 Porsche Boxster. The classically styled Porsche Boxster “is a roadster designed to be the 'spiritual descendant' of the 356 Speedster and 550 Spyder,” surmises Cars.com, and “features large side and front air intakes and a front end that shares a lot of traditional Porsche styling cues.”
The interior of the 2009 Porsche Boxster is as fabulous as the exterior. Edmunds reports that “the array of interior controls, especially the audio and climate control systems can be initially confusing.” ConsumerGuide affirms that sentiment, allowing that although “the layout is logical” on the Porsche 2009 Boxster, the “audio and climate systems are governed by too many undersized, look-alike buttons.” ConsumerGuide says the “racy design” of the interior “puts the tachometer appropriately dead-ahead on the instrument panel.” Kelley Blue Book calls the interior “a modern interpretation of the classic Porsche look-notably the instrument panel.”" — http://www.thecarconnection.com/fullreview/porsche_boxster_2009
10. Volkswagen GTI – Not to be confused with Volkswagen Gol. A compact car made by Volkswagen since 1974 and marketed worldwide across six generations in various body designs and under various nameplates.
This was Volkswagen's first winning substitute for the air-cooled Volkswagen Beetle. (But, I love Beetles!) Traditionally, it is Volkswagen's best-selling model and the world's third best-selling model, with more than 25 million built by 2007.
The cars have filled many market segments, from basic personal cars, to high-performance hot hatches.
The nameplate Golf derives from the German word for Gulf Stream and the period in its history when VW named vehicles after prominent winds. Like the Passat, Jetta, Bora, and Scirocco.
“It's been a quarter-century since the first GTI put an exclamation point on Volkswagen's Rabbit lineup, and 25 years of continuous development through five generations have yielded a car that still defines the class it established in that other century.
VW's robust 2.0-liter turbo four provides ample thrust, driving the front wheels through a six-speed manual transmission (standard) or, our choice, the slick paddle-shifted dual-clutch DSG automated manual.
But it's the GTI's rigid single body that makes it such an agreeable partner, whether it's the daily commute or a weekend back-road blast. Exemplary chassis rigidity allowed the development team to tune the suspension for a blend of precise response and smooth ride quality reminiscent of a car wearing BMW badges.
As an added bonus, GTI ownership includes an exceptionally high practicality factor. Like the Rabbit/Golf series on which it's based, the GTI has grown over the years, growth that's magnified by the versatility that's shared by all hatchbacks. The option of three- or five-door body styles augments the practicality factor.
Practicality and fun in a small-scale, sporty German hatchback. It doesn't get much better.”
In the end I will always go for anything produced by Chevrolet. I love the company. Even though I happen to currently have a Ford as a port of transportation. In my defense, I had no other choise. I bought it for a cheap price from my step-brother.
1. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Accord#Sixth_generation_.281997.E2.80.932002.29
2. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Accord
3. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_3-Series
4. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chevrolet_Corvette
5. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Focus_(North_America)
6. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Mustang
7. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mazda_Miata
9. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Boxster
10. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_GTI