Q: What would you Buy a Bentley GT or a Spur?
I was thinking on wich Bentley to get the GT or the Spur. They both cost the same, they have the same power. Wich one would you recommend.

A: Id buy the GT if it was my money. I prefer sports cars so i wouldn’t get the spur. Although both cars would make you look like a rap star id still go with the GT. I only driven the GT so i can’t really say much about the spur although i assume its just as nice as the GT. Get the GT, thats my opinion. Good luck.

Oh and I COMPLETELY disagree with you “Lover not a fighter”
To me a car is more than just transportation. Some cars to me are basically art on wheels. It could express very natural shapes but move with raw power. To me cars can be just as seductive as a womans curves but drive just as forgiving or unforgiving as women. Lol. No wonder most guys name their cars girl names. Haha

Q: Where can I get some brake discs for a Bentley Continental GT, without going to the main dealer?
I need to get hold of a new pair of front brake discs for a 2004 Bentley Continental GT. Before I go to the Bentley main dealer and pay through the roof prices, I wanted to see if they were available through any other source. Does anyone know if any aftermarket manufacturer can supply them?? Cheers.

A: check on ebay may be cheaper

Q: How much is insurance on a bentley continential gt?
So I saw this gt for 72 grand not bad compared to other Bentley’s and I was just curious as to how much insurance cost’s on a car like that?

While I’m at it, is it hard to qualify for a car that expensive, do dealers hesitate to give out loans that high? because typically dealers are generous and will find ways to qualify you, does this apply here too? or is it more like the process of buying a home?

A: Help yourself – you can check your quotes in internet, for example here – carinsurance.yoll.net

Q: Is a bentley GT coupe worth the hype?
So i finally saved money for a 2006 bentley coupe GT , that’s the car i always wanted, now that i test drove it i feel bad throwing all the money on it, it felt just like a regular Mercedes Sl500 Coupe. Thoughts?

A: I wish I could say I had the same problem! From my experience, Mercedes is an excellent automaker in quality and performance. i’d stick with them and consider an SL600, SL63/65 AMG depending on your performance needs/desires. Don’t spend so much money on something you yourself won’t be happy with. Let me know if you’d like me to test drive one for you!

Q: What type of WOMAN drives a Bentley GT Continental?
What type of woman would you assume drives a gt continental?
What kind of job would you assume she had?
Family?
Age?
Etc
thanks!!

A: i picture her with orange skin and blonde hair, fake breasts, and a relatively nice body. she’s middle aged with botox in her face, scared of growing old. maybe she has kids, maybe she doesn’t, if she does have kids they definitely hate her for spending $200,000 on a volkswagen phaeton with a bentley badge (ok, maybe not, but if i were her son, i’d feel that way ).

Q: What car is a cross between the Bentley GT continental & a Nissan micra convertible?
A car that looks similar to both of them basically.
Or am I being unrealistic?

A: If you were to cross a Bentley GT and a Nissan Micra convertible at about 70 mph then the result would probably a hideous loss of life and a mass of twisted metal.

The only car which comes close to that description is the older Fiat Multipla van which is an abortion of a motor car.

Q: Could you put a 2008 Bentley GT V12 engine in a 2008 Dodge Charger that already has a HEMI?
Basically is it possible to swap the engines?

A: yes. contact your race chassis builder of choice with the complete car and donor drivetrain and they will be more than happy to do it. its just that 20-30k pricetag that will be hard to swallow….

Q: is the bentley continental gt the fastest coupe?
I heard from a couple ppl that the Bentley continental GT is the fastest coupe they have. but I believe the skyline GTR may be faster than the Bentley. does anyone know for sure?

A: who cares?
does it really matter how fast cars can go… there speed limits, it doesnt matter if thye go 220 or 20…. theres a speed limit that u cant go over without being charged

Q: How well does the bentley continental GT handle?
I have been considering purchasing a bentley continental or rolls royce phantom due to a new high paying job. My cousin claims that that the bentley drives like a honda. Is this true or is he just making up stories?

A: I have to say it depends on where you’re driving it.

On dry paved roads, it drives nicely. I caught myself almost losing the rear end on high speed turning, but that was expected.

As for snow covered roads, I had a problem with low traction and the ABS system overbraking itself.

My suggestion would be go for a test drive. And personally, I’d recommend the Rolls, since I think they drive better and are better looking.

Q: Service and Maintenance cost of Bentley Continental GT 2005?
I know the saying “If your worried about the cost, its not for you” and all that…..but I really just want to know out of curiosity, what is the maintenance and service cost of the Bentley Continental GT 2005 with about 55k miles on it. I don’t plan on buying it, but I am curious on the costs on it.
lol as i said i don’t plan on buying it…..I just am curious. Lol nobody can just tell me?

A: W12=big money even if you do it yourself. Those vw engines (it is a vw engine) take like 13 quarts of oil. So…you know…if you’re buying it at the store that’s at least 120 bucks worth of mobil one and one vw/audi drop in filter @10-15 bucks. That’s a 135 dollar oil change at home. Take it to the dealership it’s going to be around 400 bucks likely…at the bentley dealership (depending on the oil used…apparently they use motul synthetic which ain’t cheap)…closer to 300 bucks at a vw dealership if the service manager allows it.

I suspect parts and labor would be 40-50% more compared to a domestic v8…

Q: What car would you rather have a ferrari f430 spider or a bentley continental GT and which one handles better?
I really want to get a good car and I want it to be one of those two.

A: The F430 because it’s comfortable enough and would spank the pants off the GT in any kind of race. The CGT is good if you would need back seats and it’s also about $100K cheaper.

Q: Whats a Bentley Continental Gt oil change cost?
What are the most common mechanical problems a Bentley has?

A: Depends on whether you have the oil changed at a dealer or at Jiffy Lube. Bentley’s do not have mechanical problems. Just call the factory and ask them.

Q: Would you bend over for a 22 year old guy in a Bentley continental GT?
That he has bought with his own money. And he is 6′2″ and athletic.

A: if you weren’t as douchey as this yahoo answers question makes you sound

Q: Where can I get a hold of Bentley Continental GT aftermarket parts?
I already have the famously know GIAC software, gave me about 100 hp, so now its running at 650 hp. Im a horsepower freak though, so I need more. A twin-turbo upgrade would be great. btw, money is not an issue so any ideas are welcome. except changing the engine….

A: check ebay and google it

Q: what would the monthly car payment be on a 2009 Bentley gt?
what would the monthly car payment be on a 2009 Bentley gt

A: close to $2000

Q: What is the cost of bumper to bumper warrenty on a 2011 porsche cayenne S?

A: The warranty is included in the purchase price of the new car. You don’t have to pay anything extra for a factory warranty.

Q: 2011 range rover sport vs 2011 Porsche cayenne?
Which one do you recommend and be specific please.

A: The range rover has a better ride. It is less bumpy.

Q: 2011 Porsche Cayenne or the 2010 BMW X5M?
What do you like better? BMW x5m : http://www.bmw.ca/ca/en/newvehicles/mseries/x5m/2009/introduction.html?prm_action=x5

or the Porsche Cayenne: http://www.porsche.com/canada/en/
Note: currently has a web Special

A: no way in hell that the porsche is faster 555 horses to the bmw. that is a true peice of art. go bmw all the way.

Q: Can we afford the 2011 Cayenne Porsche?
My husband and I are in the market for a small size SUV. I am interested in a Audi Q5, Range Rover, or the Cayenne. We test drove the Cayenne and I’m very attracted to this vehicle (My husband reviews all the specs to decide thank goodness). He seems to like the vehicle and is leaning towards this, but this is ultimately my decision since I will be the main driver. The price is still a shocker to me, but according to my husband, we can afford it. I feel as though the Q5 is a bit wiser for us. I attempted to research the average income of a Cayenne owner but had no luck. Anyone know what the average income for a purchaser of this SUV or the recommended cost ratio for monthly auto payment vs household income? Please help!

A: Unlike a home loan, there are no standard recommendations for the loan to income ratio for a luxury car loan/purchase. This is because luxury car loans/purchases are basically seen as a discretionary expenditure that can be a traded off with other discretionary expenses such as eating out, entertainment, travel, vacations, private vs public schools, etc.

Because buying a luxury vehicle is a discretionary purchase it does not make sense to compare your income to others because a discretionary purchase is not made in terms of affordability but more in terms of desire and what someone is willing to give up to get it.

What I mean is that someone with much less income than you is often able to buy the same vehicle because they are willing to give up eating out, vacations, and have their kids go to public schools (rather than private school). Also someone else may have a large enough income where they can aford the same vehicle without any change to their lifestyle (or giving up anything).

Thus, comparing income level is almost meaningless because the range of incomes is often a very wide range. At the low end of the range, you’ll find people that you would consider to be “poor” buying the same vehicle and then there are people WAY at the top of the range who can afford five of those same vehicles – and all of this tells you nothing about what you can afford.

The only real affordability tests for a luxury vehicle purchase are:

1. Can you afford the monthly payment?
2. In doing so, will you have to give up other things?
3. If so, are you willing to give up those things?
4. Or do you may have sufficient additional income where you can add the monthly payment to your existing expenses and not impact on your current lifestyle?

That is the basic affordabilty equation. However, the real question for someone like yourself is: Is there a better investment for your discretionary income than a luxury vehicle? Could you buy the Q5 and be happy and put the difference between it and the Porshe into something that would increase in value rather than depreciate quickly?

Those are questions that only you can answer.

Best of luck to you.

Q: 08 Porsche Cayenne depreciation by 2011?
So our family has been looking to buy a 2008 Porsche Cayenne (or Cayenne S), but I heard about the 2011 model coming out around first quarter of 2010. So obviously since there is a Cayenne with a new look coming out the 08 model will sell for much less, and I was wondering if anyone else agrees with me to just wait until that one comes out so that we don’t have to pay as much for the 08 model?

A: Get the 2008. Who knows what is gonna be wrong with the 2011.

Q: Is moonroof or sunroof is a must have for your vehicle?
I was debating with my friend about including a glass-roof in the 2011 Porsche Cayenne as a package… My friend think that I would appreicate the vehicle even more with the sunroof or moonroof or whether… I am curious if you can live without a moon or sunroof while you’re financing the vehicle or you must have a moon or sunroof comes with the vehicle?

A: My wife demanded ours have one. She’s opened it about a dozen times in the 2 years we’ve had it.

Q: If anyone owns Porsche Cayenne 06 please let me know if you like that car.?
If anyone owns Porsche Cayenne 06 please let me know if you like that car. I am looking to buy Porsche Cayenne 06 but a little concern about the year since the new 2011 are debuting this summer

A: If you need the room, it is a good buy.
If you don’t need the room, then one of the other models would handle better.

The year won’t matter that much.
Porsche does not change that much year to year.

And warranty is not a plus.
You pay through the nose for it.
A totally rebuilt engine, such as for a Boxster, is only $6.5k
There are engines that go for much more, but that is not typical.
Here is a link to a rebuilt Porsche engine src:

Q: Please help choosing a car?
I really need help choosing a car.
Can you please tell me which of the follwing cars you would get based mostly on looks (exterior AND interior). That includes GPS, wood trim, exhausts, etc. However I am not going to purchase but lease so judge it based on that. Thanks

- New 2011 BMW 550i
- 2011BMW X5
- 2011 BMW X6
- New 2011 BMW 740i
- New 2011 Porsche Cayenne S
- 2010 Range Rover Sport HSE
- 2010 Mercedes GL350
- 2010 Mercedes ML350
-2010 Mercedes E550 Sedan

A: 2011 BMW 550i or the 2010 Range Rover (not the Sport) or a 2011 A8 4.2 or a 2011 Jaguar XJ 5.0

Q: NEED HELP choosing a car?
I really need help choosing a car.
Can you please tell me which of the follwing cars you would get based mostly on looks (exterior AND interior). That includes GPS, wood trim, exhausts, etc. However I am not going to purchase but lease so judge it based on that. Thanks

- New 2011 BMW 550i
- 2011BMW X5
- 2011 BMW X6
- New 2011 BMW 740i
- New 2011 Porsche Cayenne S
- 2010 Range Rover Sport HSE
- 2010 Mercedes GL350
- 2010 Mercedes ML350
-2010 Mercedes E550 Sedan

A: You also should compare car insurance quotes for cars before buying one, for example here – carinsurance.deep-ice.com

Q: Range Rover Sport and BMW X6 xDrive 5.0?
hi all i have question, how its come Range Rover Sport’s MSRP 60,495$ and mothly payment is 899$ for 60 months — http://www.hornburgla.com/newVehicles/specials/landrover/
BUT BMW X6 xDrive 5.0 MSRP $69,875 but monthly payment 719$ for 36 months — http://www.alexanderbmw.com/OfferDetails_D?currentModelCode=1161&modelName=X6%20xDrive50i&offerType=Lease&offerYear=2011&cs:i:y=2011&cs:i:v=BMW:X6%2050i:AWD%204dr%20SUV

im new in cars sphere, this would be my second car, and i would like understand how its came fact an expensive car’s monthly payment is less than that car what is cheaper but has much monthly payment

also im in choose between these cars

all 2011: Porsche Cayenne S, Range Rover Sport, BMW X6 5.0, Mercedes E350(550), BMW 535i GT

which one you would recommend me? im single guy 20 years old… and i don’t care about HP… i need sexier exterior look and likely intereor look too… attractive one but at my listed cars

im only ready to spend 1000$ per month(included insurance) are these cars in that range ?

A: Price is only the part of the equation. Cars like BMW have very high residual values (the expected retail value at the end of the lease) which help in lowering lease payments. BMW has a much better lease package than a Range Rover.

A perfect example is the GMW Yukon Denali priced at 56000 vs the BMW X5 at 60000, there is about a 150 per month difference in the two lease payments, the bmw being less, just because the X5 has a much better residual value.

There are many other factors which could take a whole book to relay to you, but this should answer the basic question.

Good choice on the X6, its a great car.

Q: Which Vehicle is the best?
I am getting a new SUV soon, a 2011 model.

I like:

Audi Q7 3.0T, the engine is new for 2011

Acura MDX

BMW X5

Porsche Cayenne, base model with Tiptronic (2011 only)

If it was you which would you choose? All have about the same hp and torque.

A: I have one of each of these (2010) and like all of them and I am not very happy with the gas mileage that I am getting out of any of them, But I really think my Acura MDX is the best all around vehicle.

Q: Would you rather? (Car model edition)?
Have a BMW X6 or a Porsche Cayenne S?
(look at them first dont just guess) http://www.bmwusa.com/standard/content/vehicles/2011/x6/default.aspx http://www.porsche.com/usa/models/cayenne/cayenne-s/

A: BMW

Q: Need some help choosing a car.?
I am trying to decide between 3 new cars for 2011. I am 25yrs old.

-BMW X5 with M sports package
-Porsche Cayenne (Base)
Mercedes E350 Coupe

A: I have a Porsche 944 and a BMW 328xi and love them both but for all year driving i would give it to the BMW, They also just last forever and ever.

Q: Need Help chossing a car?
I am trying to decide between 3 new cars for 2011. I am 25.

-BMW X5 with M sports package
-Porsche Cayenne (Base)
-Mercedes E350 Coupe

A: The X5 – M starts at $85,000 before any options.
The Cayenne is $46,000
The Benz will set you back over $48,000

How do you intend to pay for this vehicle? The cheapest car on the list will set you back $900 a month and that is before you pay for insurance (which will be outrageous for a 25 year old) or put your first drop of fuel in the tank or pay for the $1200 scheduled maintenance appointments.

Q: What car should I get for my boyfriend?
Okay, so I wanna get my boyfriend a car as his graduation present. He’s Class of 2011 & he’s 18. He already knows I’m getting him one but he’s leaving it up to me to decide. I definitely want something sporty and classy looking for him. Price doesn’t matter, and I’m going to deck it out black on black. So yeah, it should probably be a black car. It’s gonna be loaded with everything.

But yeah, if you’re 18 & a guy, tell me what your dream car is & gimme ideas lol. I’m thinking, Mercedes, BMW, Range Rover, or a Porsche Cayenne S. Idk, yet though, as long as it looks good and he likes it(:

And oh yeah, preferably, I’d like a new model, either 2011, or 2012, maybe 2010. That’s why I don’t really like the Range Rover or the Porsche, they look a little weird to me.

Sooo, I don’t really know much about cars like mileage & horsepower & that stuff so if you do then help me out! Haha(:

Please, no haters saying stupid stuff and rude comments. If you don’t like it then hop off(:

Thanks guys!(:
Like I said, if you’re gonna be a hater & say I’m a ‘materialistic whore’ and shit like that, gtfo my question(:
Yes, I love him, hello, there’s reason I’m getting him a car. Thanks to the people who actually helped me & to the people who just said stupid shit, get a life & hop off.
Kthanksbye(;
I don’t care what you think ; there’s a reason I posted this question – ’cause I really do need advice/help/whatever the fuck you wanna call it.
Soo..stop hatin’

I’m not trying to come off as a bratty little rich kid, I just need opinions…thanks.

A: I would go with the Mercedes-Benz, it’s the best overall luxury car in my opinion. Porsche is pure performance, but nothing else. BMW is nice but the interior is not as nice as Mercedes-Benz. Mercedes-Benz is sporty and classy at the same time. Interior is very nice, everything is wood and leather. Mercedes-Benz also has the most comfortable seats. Mercedes-Benz is also the most technologically advanced car. They are also the safest cars in the world, 11 standard airbags. It’s a German car, so you know you’re getting great performance. Take a look at these websites:

http://www.mbusa.com/mercedes/vehicles/explore/overview/class-CL/model-CL550C4
http://www.mbusa.com/mercedes/vehicles/explore/overview/class-CLS/model-CLS550C

http://www.mbusa.com/mercedes/vehicles/explore/overview/class-SL/model-SL550R

If you live in a place with snowy weather:
http://www.mbusa.com/mercedes/vehicles/explore/overview/class-G/model-G550

http://www.mbusa.com/mercedes/vehicles/explore/overview/class-GL/model-GL350BTC

E-mail me if you need more help: sonicsguard13@yahoo.com

Q: How does the new Tesla Motors Roadster compare to GM’s older EV1?
Mileage per charge… charge storage capacity… acceleration and power… battery types etc… Will Tesla Motors and others be able to produce lower cost electric vehicles while yet maintaining a somewhat good balance with performance?

A: —————————–
The EV1 is in many ways the father to the Tesla Roadster. The AC drive technology pioneered in the EV1 is at the heart of the Tesla.
*
The battery technology used in the EV1, called NIMH, is still ground-breaking. Sadly, a major oil company bought the patents to NIMH, and they have chosen to no longer make those batteries available for electric vehicles. Luckily, the Li-Ion batteries used in the Tesla have an even higher energy density, giving that car a 250-mile range, almost double that of the EV1. Patents for Li-Ion batteries are mainly in the hands of Asian companies, beyond the reach of major oil companies.
*
Power, with a decent sized electric motor, is an easy goal for an electric car. Electric motors have a much higher efficiency, and significantly wider powerbands than gasoline engines. This is how the Tesla can out-dragrace Ferraris and Vipers despite having a smaller-horsepower motor, and a much lower power-to-weight ratio than other sports cars.
*
Cost, as with any other consumer product, is a function of market penetration. VCRs and DVD players did not become cheap until everybody started buying them. The same will be true of electric cars. An electric motor is far, far simpler and easier to manufacture than a gasoline engine. Electric motors have only one moving part! If electric vehicles ever catch on, cars will be cheaper than they are now, and last much longer – because electric motors almost never need repair.
*
Proof electric cars can be cheap:

- Here’s a small businessman who makes new electric cars out of old 1980’s car bodies. Prices start under $5000:

http://grassrootsev.com/convert.htm

-And here are some Chinese electric cars (EVs are much more popular over there) which are priced in American dollars – this is what we could buy them for, if they were available here. Prices start at $6500:

-http://www.fevehicle.com/services.html

——————-

Q: Has anyone seen the new Tesla Roadster?
I love that car, even though its only good for 200 mph per charge

But with a 0-60 in 4 seconds WHO CARES!!! lol.

Too bad its 109,000 dollars *sobs*

A: I think its great and a first of what will be a new generation of sports cars. Although it is quite expensive now the more the technology is developed and produced then the price will eventually come down. It also features a regenerative engine braking system that will be a main part of F1 cars next season.

Engine – 3 phase, 4 pole electric motor
Battery life – 100,000 miles
Range – 220 miles
Power – 248bhp
Torque – 211lbft
0-60mph – 3.9s
Max speed – 125mph

Q: the all new tesla roadster. isnt it beautiful?
dont talk to me about the price!!!

A: Yes it is! I never thought an electric car could become that awesome!

Q: Is this, the Tesla Roadster, the future of cars?
http://driving.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/driving/new_car_reviews/article2036260.ece
Lemon Paper: try looking at the differences between Petrol and Electricitic, I think Petrol loses. The high cost is based on a limited market, with that opened up the cost would come down and would becolme more available

A: Lemon Paper, you should study before you comment. The EV1 was *not* continued for the reason you state (watch the documentary about it). The internal combustion engine only wins the range game because of the number of gas stations, but electric cars are inherently faster (check youtube to see the Wrightspeed electric beating the pants off gas-powered cars), with the tesla going 0-60mph in 4 seconds. IC engines are vastly more complex than electric and hybrids are even worse. Yes, they are $100K, but they are planning a $30K model by 2012.
Besides, Tesla really departed from the EV1 buy going with Li-Ion batteries (250 mile range, gov’t rated), a universal charging cable (doesn’t require a special charging station if you are “stranded”), a solar charger option (to go completely “green”). It’s a really remarkable vehicle.

Q: new electric cars!!!!!?
OK! its the spring of 2009 and im tired of drooling over the tesla roadster. Whats new and hot off the market or soon to be released this summer?

I have been checking in every few months or so trying to find out if any new electric cars are coming out, and whats taking so long?!? america is READY we NEED electric cars! why cant another car company just copy the tesla idea and make a car for under 30k?

so anyways spam the new car line up’s of whats been released and whats coming soon so we can all stop dreaming of the tesla and start saving for a car we can actualy aford.

A: a rather depressingly short list at http://www.ukelectriccars.co.uk/?gclid=CIrD-9z995kCFRC7ZwodkyoPGQ of small low performance cars available now
and slightly better vapourware listed over the page

Q: Is the internal combustion engine, on the way out of our lives ?
Introducing the new electric TESLA roadster.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hOl_1S10jTk&eurl=

The TESLA Roadster:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Rh2tka0P6M&mode=related&search=
Thanks “szydkids” for the technology update on “EEStor” ceramic “battery”.

http://money.cnn.com/2006/09/15/technology/disruptors_eestor.biz2/index.htm

A: Yes. It is in the nature of business to innovate and compete. Silicon Valley just may succeed where Detroit failed, although even they may be leap-frogged by technologies like EEStor and their ceramic “battery”.

The internal combustion engine will be just like the horse – a quaint but outdated relic of a bygone era . . .

Q: In which year the electrical cars will take a solid place in the world market? to compite with fuel cars?
Answer this question if you know about cars like Tesla Roadster.

The new automotive Factory Tesla will send in principles of 2007 100 of its models Tesla Roadster a totally electrical car
their benefits are: 0-100 in 4 seconds 400km by load (reloadable in house in the plug) the use cost is 1cent dollar per mile
There is a strong campaign of the government of the U.S.A. for the promotion of these cars echo-friendly: it will not receive tickets of parking, etc. Google is one of the several shareholders of the TeslaMotors company, invested 40 million dollars…

A: Electric cars have been a dream of many for over 50 years. Battery technology was the major drawback to electric vehicles, but that is getting better. I think all the shops, all the engine parts makers, and all the oil companies have not wanted electric cars. That’s why we don’t have them.

Q: Should a zero-emission vehicle driver still pay a toll which was instituted to reduce emissions in an area?
I heard a news story and the words of the mayor of New York City, Mike Bloomberg, that there would be a new toll for vehicles entering certain parts of the city on weekdays in an attempt to reduce emissions. Should a zero emission vehicle like the Tesla Roadster be held to the same mandate? Should I pay a toll if I drive a zero-emission vehicle?
To Bob Shark, the mayor of NYC specifically said (this can be quoted) the purpose of the toll is to reduce emissions from vehicles over the next 20 years.
I can agree with congestion charges because you might want to limit the amount of potential pileups, accidents or clear roads for deliveries simply to have clearer roads.
I do agree that emissions are made at some point. With electricity there is primarily coal, which would be at conversion. With gas it is conversion and run-time use. That is double so I’ll take half emissions any day of the week. However, you can move towards solar and wind with electricity. What’s the alternative source for gas?

A: lmao, good point. Bring it to your state rep, I’d like to see what they say. I’m sure it’s not for emissions. I live in IL, another land of tollways, and they feed us the same BS about why they exist. It’s usually for some good reason like reducing emissions, or to help the funding of repairs and new roads. But a nice audit of IDOT’s use of tollway funds showed that over 50% of the funds went to payroll. Payroll. And toll-booth workers get paid minimum wage so I know it’s the paper pushers at the top that are getting the money. And our new governor spent FOUR MILLION dollars to post 10 signs on the Illinois tollways that said nothing more than “Rod Blagojevich’s Tollway Reconstruction Project”. Four million dollars of our quarters and dimes for some campaign materials…

If Bloomberg says it’s to reduce emissions, you should be exempt from the toll. But then how would they all afford their gas-guzzing polluting SUV’s when the payroll is underfunded?

Q: Why do we still drive cars using internal combustion?
If we could easily have by now replaced the internal combustion engine with a motor using nano-lithium battery technology why do we still drive with internal combustion engines? Its not really new technology. It is derived from Lithium-ion technology. This has been around since the 1960’s. Its only been recently that the technology has been applied. These batteries can be charged with power sources not using fossil fuels therefore no pollution is added to the atmosphere. There are even cargo trucks now using this technology in the UK. These batteries have a range of 250 miles.
Top speed of 95 MPH and 0-60 in 10 seconds. Never stops at a gas station again. Cost $50,000 which is not to far off from the price of your average new large diesel truck. These are the specs for a truck.
Any cars with much less weight will go faster and farther.
Tesla Roadster goes 0-60 in 4 seconds, top speed over 130 MPH, 250 mile range, charges in 3.5 hours. Battery life is over 100,000 miles. Bye BIG OIL!
Lithium has wide distribution in the earths crust. It is the 31st most abundant mineral on earth. About 50 dollars per pound. Its only used once in battery production and lasts 100,000 miles. It is easily resourced from brine pools and mineral springs. Extracting oil is much more costly.
Chile and Argentina are the largest producers of Lithium in the world.
Because factories producing electric cars use less energy because they require fewer parts they use less from the power grid. Electric cars are here to stay because they simply make sense.
Smith electric vehicles since1920
www.smithelectricvehicles.com
7.5t truck
Range:160 miles
Up to 65 mph
Self rechargeable unit onboard
10,000 pd hauling capacity
$50 dollars a week to recharge batteries
vs $220 dollars for diesel a week
20% of recharging done thru solar applications
25% the maintenance cost of diesel including battery replacement
These will be available thru Enova Systems
in North America .
American truck will have larger capacities than the current truck.12t truck.
Bye BIG OIL
Almost 99% of the NiMH batteries in the trucks are recyclable.
Its a no brainer.
The cost to transport oil, gasoline and car parts is huge. The cost to power refineries is huge. The cost to manufacture billions of car parts we won’t need ius huge.Hundreds of Billions of dollars.The fact is once oil is gone capital to spend on solar technology which is now available will be immense. Oils days of plunder are close to over.
Oh and anyone thats says Tesla Roadster is ugly is blind. Motor noise is a matter of opinion. I actually hate the noise of my Dodge 1500 5.9L 4X4 because it sounds like money going out of my wallet. I gassed up yesterday at $3.25 a gallon. I get 11 miles to the gallon.
Tesla Roadster is a sports car.
Priced at $92,950
Cost in gas, oil, filters $0
0-60 in 4 seconds
Top speed over 130 mph
Demand growing Supply small
Cost is higher only due to small infrastructure. These costs will fall.
Less parts than a Internal Combustion
motors.
Show us a four passenger sedan capable of carrying four people with adequate luggage at least 650km/400miles on a charge, that can be charged fully over ten hours, no more and we might, just might be interested. Our present vehicle which is not particularly fuel economical is capable of more than this distance with the air-con running and can be recharged in 10 minutes.

Why do I have to look this up for you?
Do it yourself sherlock.

Phoenix SUT Cost to purchase $50,000
MADE IN THE USA
5 passenger SUV/SUT
Battery lasts 250 miles
Recharging battery takes
10 min with an onboard charger.
Its like 15 dollars worth of electricity.
So for about 30 bucks worth of electricity you can go
500 miles.
480 pounds of torque
Air conditioning standard
Power everything
No emissions
No gas
No oil
No catalytic converter
No exhaust
No radiator
No water pump
No oil pump
No fuel injection
No air filter
No exhaust manifold leaks
0-60 in 10 seconds(good for its size)
Top speed 95 mph
Payload:1,000 pounds
300 km is just over 150 miles.
The Smith Electric truck has a range of 160 miles. Did I say that already?
For short hauls in San Diego and LA its certainly capable. Charges fast at UK stations.
Still think battery cars are incapable?
BIG OIL HAS BEEN LYING FOR A LONG TIME.
Tesla is a sports car!!!
I never said it was a family car!!!
It recharges completely in 4 hours from 0% percent charge to 100% charge.
You will have to replace the batteries eventually which are completely recyclable.
IN MAYBE 8 YEARS!!!
All it takes is powering stations which BIG OIL made sure you can’t find.
There is one at LAX THAT WILL FINALLY SEE SOME USE!!!LOL
Imagine no stupid tanks in the ground at 7-11!!! No huge bumps to roll over entering a gas station!!!
No more oil leaking into our ground from all those disgusting auto mechanic shops!!!
of course you will still have Discount Tire and Big O for tires.
And shops to change brake fluid.
Auto parts places will be packed with batteries.
Auto detailing will still be here.
Windshield washer fluid and wiper blades.
Lets see Ken E.
If its midnight and you need to charge your
car for 4 hours(if you need a full charge)what time will it be fully charged?
Will you need to get up at 2am to go to Disney World? No.Even if there was an emergency at 2am would your car be available for 30 to 40 miles? Yes!!

Where is your stock Ken E.?
Maybe in Exxon, Chevron, BP or Shell?
Scared?
I would be.
I have already mentioned the hundreds of billions of dollars that would be saved by the stoppage of oil, gas, billions of car parts and who knows what else.
All we know is that its probably TRILLIONS OF DOLLARS!!!
But no you worry about where the electricity is to power our electric cars.
Well Solar, Geothermal, Wind, Hydroelectric will be taking up a lot of that need especially in CA where we still have 1000’s of miles of empty desert ready to use PVC sites. I don’t think they look that bad but even if someone does nobody lives out there anyway so who cares.
They provide no waste to the environment and last 50+ years.
And even offices can incorporate solar panels in to their windows that no one can even see.
BIG OIL AND BIG COAL WILL SOON BE NO MORE!!!

A: ———-
Isn’t it amazing how many people assume that no progress has been made in battery and EV design in 30 years?
*
The Phoenix electric truck is not the only vehicle using the new Altairnano batteries. There is also this vehicle:
*
http://www.slashgear.com/zap-x-suv-is-644bhp-electric-monster-303661.php
*
The ZAP-X SUV gets 350 miles per charge, has 644 horsepower, does 155mph, and also charges in 10 minutes. How can people look at a car like this, and still say that EV batteries are not up to the task?
*
Incidentally, the Altairnanos are good for 250,000 miles, not just 100,000. You should never have to replace these batteries in the car’s lifetime. But they are fully recyclable anyway.
*
Driving on electricity is also much cheaper than gasoline, only a penny or two per mile. I know this firsthand, I drive an EV. Don’t worry about powerplant emissions. This is oil-company propaganda nonsense. EVs cause much less pollution because of their high efficiency, even when dirty fuels make electricity.
*
One of the more remarkable aspects of this story is how our government, major automakers, and media are ignoring these cars (developed without government money), while touting much less viable options like hydrogen and ethanol – probably because these fuels can still be processed and price-gouged by oil companies. No wonder people scratch their heads and declare that practical EVs can’t possibly be real.
*
Wake up! Join me! Drive an impossible car! Here are some cheap EVs (as little as $5000), if you want to ‘get your feet wet’ before spending lots of money:
*
http://www.squidoo.com/cheap-electric-car/
*
You know what my project is this year? I’m putting a solar panel on my garage, to charge my EV. Then I will drive for ZERO cents per mile, with ZERO emissions.
—————–

Q: What’s new on the market for electric cars?
So it’s jully of 2010 what’s new on the show floors or
going to be available very soon as far as 100% EV? Tesla roadster has been out there for a while but with a price tag of 100k most all of us will
just skip past. Let’s look at some cars for anywhere less than 40k.

So the question is: what EV are going or expected to go for less than 40,000$ within the next year?links and pics are always helpful.

A: The Nissan Leaf will be out soon, with a starting price tag of $32,500. Of course at tax time you get a $7,500 credit back, so Nissan is advertising that will cost $25,500. Government is talking about taking the $7,500 credit and moving it to $9500, so the Leaf will be the cheapest, plus it sounds really cool. It has an IT solution to it to manage the batteries so you do not have to. Pretty much plug and drive. It also has a GPS system that will tell you if the car will make it before you go, and is said that will eventually be tied into a network of chargers so the car will tell you when and where to stop to get a fast charge that is estimated to be from 15 to 45 minutes to get anywhere from 65% to 90% charge.

The Chevy Volt is coming out as well, as technically a series hybrid, or what a lay person would call a backup gas generator. With the government credit, you will be just under $40k with the Volt.

I believe all the car makers are coming out with an electric version of some sort, if not just a hybrid version.

The sports car people are just needing some small advancements in storage, and the sports cars will be faster than any gas car could go, including dragsters.

Q: cars cars cars?
what you think of tesla roadster? im getting a new one this tuesday. but i got short knowledge about it!

A: It is the only electric car you could buy. It goes to 60mph(100kph) in 4 seconds. Its really fast.

Q: newest electric sports car>?
any news on any new electric sports cars coming out? I know the zap-x is due to come out soon, and the roadster is still on wait list. any other fast electric cars coming out in the near future?

I have seen china coming out with LOTS of little plastic cars. Mostly going less then 80mph top speed, and roughly 100miles top distance. Its good to see things are improving, and I cant wait to see what comes out next. Hopefuly the tesla roadster’s price will drop dramaticly, or a newer car that has all the same specs or beter will come out, and be half the price XD *heres dreaming*

A: Available in California in October 2008, the Aptera typ-1e will cost about $27,000 with a top speed of 95 mph and range of 120 miles per charge.

http://www.aptera.com/details.php

Soon thereafter Aptera will introduce the typ-1h, a plug-in hybrid version of the typ-1e with a 40-60 mile range on purely electrical energy, and a range of over 600 miles total when in electric/gas hybrid mode, for around $30,000. On a 120 mile trip, the typ-1h will get 300 miles per gallon. The shorter the trip, the higher the efficiency.

http://www.aptera.com/details.php

Available in late 2008 or early 2009, the ZAP Alias will cost $30,000, have a top speed of 100 mph, and a range of 100 miles per charge.

http://zapworld.com/electric-vehicles/electric-cars/zap-alias

Soon thereafter the ZAP-X will be available at a cost of $60,000 with a top speed of 155 mph and a range of 350 miles per charge.

http://zapworld.com/electric-vehicles/electric-cars/zap-x

Available in late 2008 or early 2009, the Miles Javlon will cost $30,000 with a top speed of 80 mph and a range of 120 miles per charge.

http://www.milesev.com/

Phoenix Motorcars will start selling their SUT to individuals in late 2008 or early 2009. It will cost $45,000 and have a top speed of 100 mph with a range of 100+ miles per charge.

http://phoenixmotorcars.com/

There are also a number of big auto companies working on plug-in hybrids (GM, Toyota, Ford, Mitsubishi, etc.). The first one out will be the Chevy Volt in late 2010.

Q: Why doesn’t tesla make any more roadsters with 2 speed transmissions?
i heard that all of their transmissions are one speed now. is it cause they kept breaking? that’s what i heard from top gear, but i dunno if its true. is it?

and when are they releasing their new sedan? i heard that its this month, but then i heard that they delayed it. so anyone know when its gonna be released?

thanks
lol if you don’t know, why would you answer?
what’s going on between the workers and management?!?!?!
yea, top gear are a bunch of fossil heads…they make up any excuse possible to put down alternative fuels…
oh yea btw, wouldn’t a gear box mean higher top speed? plus, when working at higher rpm, like at highway speeds, wouldn’t it just be smarter to down shift to save energy so you can maintain the higher speed, without using a lot of energy. so better range.

A: Electric motors are high torque fro zero, so there is no need for a gearbox in the infernal combustion sence to match the torque curve to load (road speed etc)

The second gear would have given an option of lower acceleration for longer range. but with the prototype transmission shifting between the two gears without a clutch was too difficult to develop in the timescales set. So they have gone for a single speed option with few moving parts. http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/convertibles/112_0810_2009_tesla_roadster_one_speed/index.html a 2 speed box may come along later with an option to retrofit to earlier models.

but Top Gear are fossil heads who don’t want to know anything about electric vehicles, eg they would rather crash a 250mph dragster than mention a 350-400mph Bluebird sitting in a shed in the UK awaiting sponsorship http://speedace.info

Tesla have the same funding issues as other car makers at the moment, so any plans are subject to change. especially as it involves a new factory in California

Q: What color should I dye my hair and how should I get it cut?
I want to dye my hair like miley cyrus new color http://www.zimbio.com/pictures/jvSDs5f6JXG/Miley+Cyrus+Photoshoot+Tesla+Roadster/KX_APY8DLtI/Miley+Cyrus I want my hair this color here is my picture 0422001334a.jpg (246KB) I hope you can see it if not, my picture is set as my profile on facebook here is my name to look me up Ashley Bovona…. thanks plz reply back as soon as possible…….

A: Miley has highlights and her highlights are dirty blonde.
And i think you don’t need to cut your hair. It’s fine.
Anyway take a look at this hairstyles

http://www.hairstylesdesign.com/gallery/long_hairstyles.php

Q: what is your favorite car or truck?
vote for a new one or one that’s up here, here is the list so far

1 daewoo
1 tahoe
2 silverado
1 suburban
1 ACCURA tls
2 audi r8
1 porsche panamera
3 chevy camaro ss 09
2 tesla roadster
1 s2000 supercharged
1 ford mustang shelby cobra
1 shelby mustang gt 500 super snake
2 any v8 mustang
2 corvette zr1
1 mercedes sl65 amg
1 svt roadster
1 zenvo st-1
1 aston martin db9 coupe
1 1934 ford coupe
1 ford escort
1 97 honda del sol
1 99 mitsubishi eclipse
1 09 subaru imprezza wrx sti

A: Not in any particular order

BMW 850CSi coupe.
1970 Chevy Malibu SS 454
1932 Ford 3-window coupe
1968 Chevy C-10 short bed stepside pickup

Q: Will the Pioneer AVIC-Z2 or Eclipse AVN6610 work on a 1 series BMW convertible?
Even though the 1 series BMW convertible is not available yet, does anyone know if the Pioneer AVIC-Z2 or Eclipse AVN6610 navigation systems will work?

A: Whats so terrible about BMW’s Nav? You must be extremely picky or have read too many reviews. It’s not as complicated as everyone makes it out to be.

Q: Bmw 1 Series???
why is it assembled in Mexico and not Germany like the other series?? who is excited for the X6??? i know i am… when is M10 coming out???

A: thats a blow -BMW in Mexico???
last time i checked vw jetta’s were made there…and they fall apart
X6-sweet but expensive
M10-near future

Q: BMW 1 series?
What do you think of it?

A: It go very fast and just right if u very fast girl. If u buy i come see you and me have a go pls. I only have old banger so i look forward to yr. invite to me with much glee in my heart.Thank you i wait for yr reply.

Q: Will a Maclaren Major Elite Pushchair fit into the boot of a BMW 1 Series?
My son is disabled and uses a larger than normal pushchair (major elite) Does anyone know if this would fit into the boot of a 1 series? The folded dimensions are:H117cmx25cmx21cm
Thanks

A: Topgear described this car as having a Rubiks Cube sized boot, we only just get our maclaren major in our Focus Zetec boot and looking at pics the series 1 seems quite a bit smaller. Great pushchairs but I wish they could make them to fold down smaller ! We often put ours on the floor of the back depending on how old you child is, my kids don’t reach the floor yet.

Q: How many will the new 1 series BMW seat & what is the starting price?
I heard these will be available in the U.S. for sale in the spring of 2008.

Thank you!

A: Seats 5. Pricing has not been released yet.

Q: Any ideas on actual price of the BMW 1 SERIES?
Anyone planning on buying on when they come out? I really want to buy one, and just seeing who else is a HUGE BMW FAN!
THE 2008 MODEL.

A: First of all, Refugiotrans is nuts because Bill O’Reilly advertises GM on his show, and drives one.

Secondly, BMW did not disclose a price, and it can’t be compared to the European price since it will be different.

Below, is the Official BMW Website information which was sent to my Email…

Q: Where can I get a decent code reader for a BMW 1 series?
It is 2 years old but I want to be prepared and don’t want to pay silly money everytime, I would rather have my own code reader and diagnose the fault and then get it repaired.

Can anyone recommend a good code reader? I heard the Peake Tool for BMW was good.

A: If you don’t want to pay silly money then don’t take it to a dealer take it to an independent garage instead. Saves the expense of buying a reader then.

Q: When is the BMW 1 series convertible being released in the UK?
There is a good chance I will be purchasing this car – does anybody know its release date? And any recommendations on any similar alternative cars? Thanks

A: im not sure on the exact date of its release but its this summer, early on i think. i definitly think you should buy it, ive driven the 120i and the 120d personally i prefer the diesel…incase that is of any help to you. i think the styling of the convertible is superb! there are alternatives such as the volkswagon eos or peugeot 307 etc etc. but there is no car in the class of the 1 series, im not sure if there are even any other rear wheel drive cars in the 1 series convertibles class. all the best. knormskie

Q: looking to buy the 1 series bmw convertible or a used clk 350 convertible which is the better car?
Pricing new bmw vs used mb clk 350
incentives
anything i should look for in the purchase

A: both cars are compatible, it would just be a matter of preference.

Q: How to reset BMW 1 series ecu?
How do I hard reset the ecu for the BMW 1 series (E81 07),

Is it simply by disconnecting the battery for over 1/2 hour?

A: yeah your kinda correct its disconnecting for 1 hour

Q: Can I get a diesel BMW 1 series in the states?
What would it take to get one of these in the states? I’m sure it would have to go through some sort of emissions testing, but would probably pass, right? I’m thinking this would make a very cool veggie oil car.

A: No.

See below

Q: How does the handling and ride quality of a BMW 1-series compare to the 3-series?
Cite your source if you haven’t driven both of these yourself. Thanks.

A: Well, might not be much help but I drive a 3-series and the handling rocks! I drive a 2000 323i and the control amazes me every time I’m driving it

Q: Does anyone know what colors the new BMW 1 series will come in?
All of the ads and write ups I’ve seen show a red one.

A: it will come in the following colors

Atlantic Blue
Montego Blue
Alpine White
Arctic
Barber Red
Crimson Red
Deep Green
Jet Black
Monaco Blue
Platinum Bronze
Sparkling Graphite
Titanium Silver

this link will provide photos of the different colors
http://www.edbmw.com/blog/2007/08/12/bmw-1-series-exterior-colors/
……..

Q: Has anyone had problems with the Bury cc9060 Car kit when fitted to a 1 series BMW?
On starting the car it takes about 5 minutes to power up then when you try connecting it it connects then switches itself off? It keeps flashing on then off. I got the kit replaced but it still does the same thing???HELP

A: Have you tried testing it on a bench environment with just a power supply, and all necessary connections?

I would do a functional test before installing it into the car.

Q: I’m about to buy myself a BMW 1 Series 128i car, will this increase my chance of getting some?
I’ve heard from several people that guys who drive BMW’s are the most likely to get laid frequently.

A: Yeah pretty much….unless you’re a total vinegar pouch….

Q: What do you think about 2011 BMW X3 ?
Versus X5 or Mercedes ML or GL

A: ya I think it looks ok well I’il get it

Q: As a 27 y.o, am I on the right financial track?
How would you rate my financial situation?

I’m a 27 y.o working professional with the following financial portfolio:

Savings high interest – $70,000
Own and Renting out a condo (have equity on condo and will pay off the condo in 5 yrs) – current tenant is paying 2/3rd of the mortgage per month
Own and Paid off my BMW X3
No Credit card debt
401k – $38,000 (Contribute ONLY up to employer match. Reasoning – I don’t like leaving my money in my 401k because I want liquid funds. There’s way too many hoops to jump through to pull out the money. I plan on contributing more when I get to my 30s, but for now…steady contribution of 6% only)
No Roth – Same reasoning as 401k – Don’t want to invest too much for something that I won’t see or touch till I’m in my 60s. Some people don’t even make it till that age…why bank on it?
No stock

Short future goal – Buy a Florida townhome ($120,000) in 2011 and pay with cash. No mortgage then and no interest.

Let me know if there’s any financial advise you want to give so I can improve my financial situation.

The tenant is only paying 2/3 of the mortgage since my mortgage is a 15 year fixed. Hence, the payment is much higher. I’m covering the 1/3 which includes HOA.

I have approximately $60,000 in equity on the property. Have $130,000 left on the mortgage.

A: Seems like you’ve got nearly all your bases covered. The 6% 401k contribution is plenty, especially if your employer is matching that amount.

The only hole you’ve yet to fill is long term financial security. A ROTH is an excellent tool for that. Why NOT contribute to it if you have all your monthly expenses covered easily. Plus the contributions are tax deductible– up to a point.

What happens if you live until you’re 80 or 90+. You’ll needs funds to cover your expenses for those years. Rationalizing by saying “some people don’t live that long” is poor financial planning.

If you really don’t want to contribute to a ROTH, consider a high yield dividend mutual fund. The dividends get reinvested and act like compound interest. Over many years you can build up some serious wealth without a lot of continued out of pocket investing.

Q: How can i code a 1996 mercedes e class 1 button remote fob?
I have just bought a used single button remote fob for a 1996 e class mercedes.The car has the red and green lights in the rear view mirror and sensor is on the mirror..How can this remote be coded to the car..I am in England so relevent answers please.I have tried autodata method-didnt work.

A: This company did it for me recently

Tech-Tronics Ltd – James Anthony House, 1 Lyons Road, Trafford Park, Manchester, M17 1RN

T: 0161 872 6275 – F: 0161 877 0081 – E: enquiries@tech-tronics.net – W: www.Tech-Tronics.net

Q: What does the C,E, and S stand for in the Mercedes Class’ Sedans? Are they acronyms for something?
Also, if you can help me to define the other class’, such as what does the “SLK”, “SL”, “R”, “M”, “G”, “GL”, and “AMG” stand for…much appreciation!!!

A: Mr Phusion is TOTALLY incorrect

S – Super (the large 4-door sedan line)
SL – Sport Light (the larger 2-door roadster)
SLK – Sporty Light Kurz (Kurz = short, as in short wheelbase) the small 2-door
roadster
E – Executive (the midsize 4-door sedan)
CL – C = coupe; L= Luxus? (= luxury) the large 2-door coupe
CLK – coupe luxus kurz
A – no meaning (the very small 4-door hatchback sedan)
B – same as above
C – perhaps Compact (for the smaller 4-door sedan)
ML – no meaning (the SUV)
G – Gelaendewagen = cross country vehicle
R – no meaning (the new line in between a mini van and a 4-door sedan, shown as
the GST in autoshows)
V – van

Q: How can I get a deal on a Mercedes E class?
I am wanting to buy the NEW (I have stress new because the older model is no use to me) Mercedes E class, I am going to be scrapping my car with Mercedes scrappage scheme as my car is worth £2000. The total for the new Mercedes is around £28,356. I was wondering how I can try to get a deal on it. I also heard that if you purchase the showroom cars they are cheaper

Please help thanks!

A: Showroom cars are not going to be any cheaper than cars on the lot. Demo units of furniture and appliances will cost less, but not cars.
The best way to get a deal is to play one dealer against another. Begin negotiating with more than one dealer, and take written offers from one to the other. It won’t take very long to find out who will give you the lowest price!

Q: does anyone know how to switch the heater on in a E class mercedes?
I have a e class merc 02 reg i cant figure out how to put the heater on i dont have the manual so im stuck, i really hope someone out there can help me and give me clear instructions,Thank you

A: This is a tough question as the year 2002 was the year when models change.

In all Mercedes, turning to heater is simply changing the temperature. Note that regardless of whether you have standard air con or automatic climate control, there are two temperature settings – one for drivers side and one for passenger side.

If you have standard aircon, if u have the old W210 model the a/c temp is determined by 2 temp wheels on the middle console.

For the newer W211 and automatic a/c models just try and find the red arrows, as they indicate turning the heat up.

If still stuck, take a photo of the console and post, it may be easier.

Cheers

Q: What is the difference between an S, C or E class Mercedes?
I want to buy a top of the line Mercedes i know the S are the most expensive but i m just curious of what is the difference between these classes

A: S= top of the line full-sized sedan (competes with BMW 7-series, Audi A8 and Lexus LS)
E= mid-sized sedan (BMW 5-series, Audi A6, Lexus GS)
C= entry-level sedan (BMW 3-series, Audi A4, Lexus IS)

The C and S have recently been updated and the E is due for an update for 2010.

Q: When does the new Mercedes E Class Convertible come to the UK?
When does the new Mercedes E Class Convertible come to the UK?

A: Expected by october

Q: Need help changing brakes on a mercedes e class?
My friend wants me to help him change his brakes on his 99 e class turbo diesel. I’ve done brake jobs on american and japanese cars but never german.
Does anyone know if there are any special tools I will need or if there are any procedures that would differ from a normal brake job.
Any tips would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks!

A: The W210 chassis is like most cars as far as brakes. A few tips:

You’ll need to unbolt the front calipers to do the pads. The bolts on these cars are installed with anti-sieze, so you want to use a snug fitting six point wrench to pull the bolts. If you use a twelve point socket, you’ll stand a good chance of stripping the heads, and it will become a character building exercise.

The rears are pinned, you need a 5mm punch (or a nail) to push them out. The pins and crosstrees may be rusted to death, so save some time and buy new hardware. If you’re doing the rotors, you’ll also have to unbolt the caliper. Like the fronts, these calipers are locktited, so use a quality tool to remove them. Mercedes wants you to use new bolts when you put it back together, but I don’t. Nor do I use locktite, just tighten them well.

The rotors have a small metric allen screw which holds them in place. These often become rusted and need to be drilled out. You can install the rotor without the screw, which is only used for position. It’s the wheel bolts that actually hold the rotor in place. If you find the rotors stick to the flanges, whack the hub sideways very hard with a very heavy hammer while pulling outward on the rotor…really…it won’t hurt anything, and the rotor will pop off.

You’ll need a new pad wear sensor for each wheel…you can get these from wherever you’re buying the parts for a couple of bucks. It’s important to replace them, as there are no audible telltales as there are on US cars.

When you bleed the brakes, be aware that when you refill the master, you have to fill it nearly to the brim. Otherwise, the rear brakes will never bleed.

Q: would i look better in a 2007 xc90 or a 1999 mercedes e class?
I am a male high schooler and i am stuck between 2 cars; a 2007 Volvo XC-90 or a 1999 Mercedes E class. I live in a predominantly rich town and i want chicks to dig my ride! so…?

A: The Volvo will cost you more money in the long run. They are pure crap and you will be spending more time at the Volvo dealer getting it repaired than you will cruising for chicks.

Q: what is the most expensive mercedes class?
for BMW,in my opinion for sure its 7-series.
but for mercedes is it c? e? s? r? or the new b-class?
can you as well arrange it from highest(expensive) to bottom?

A: People seem to be forgetting the R, ML, G, GL, A, and B. The A and B aren’t available in the US but they count. There’s a new GLK coming out that will start in the mid-30s.

From top to bottom:
SLR
CL
SL
S
G
GL
CLS
E
ML
R
CLK
SLK
(GLK)
C
(A and B)

Keep in mind that that order is completely arbitrary. You can argue that some are more expensive than others but the general pecking order looks a lot like that. You can also price up a C-class to cost as much as an E-class and then there are the AMG editions of most (the R and GL don’t have an AMG trim).

Q: What type and grade of oil should I use in a 1997 model E class Mercedes with a 2.0 petrol engine?

A: Semi-Synthetic or Synthetic oil W10/’W40 But your owners hand book should tell you..

Q: Hi i am buying a new mercedes E class and i am a little confuesed?
About the class speck i need to know the differance in classic model to avangard and elegance which is best ?

A: the avangard one will feel better to drive but personally, i like how the elegance ones look better

Q: What’s the difference between the Mercedes E-Class sport and E-class luxury?
And is it worth spending an extra $7000 on the E550 over the E350?

A: The E550 features a 382-bhp 5.5L V-8 engine, and is basically the sportier model.
The E350 features a 268-bhp 3.5L V-6 engine, and as far as is listed on the Mercedes-Benz USA website, has a very similar option set to the E550.

The V-8 E550 will be much faster; however, it will not handle as well in the rain and snow due to the power increase (and despite the 4Matic AWD system). If you’re worried about winter and can afford the luxury options on the E350 4Matic, that is probably your best choice. However, if you live in a warmer climate, the E550 will come with extra luxury items as standard and will be more fun to drive. Also, both trim levels come with some form of advanced active suspension system that includes “SPORT” and “COMFORT” modes.

Q: I would like to know if the new mercedes E class (2010) has a dynamic suspension?
What I am getting at is this. Currently I drive an old Mercedes that is very low on its suspension. Every time I drive into my garage, the car scratches the ground. A SUV would solve the problem, but I don’t need a SUV. My question is, can you increase the height of the (air) suspension so that the car can drive into the garage without scratching the ground.

A: Yes, not only the 2010 E-Class has this, but almost all the other current models (except the C, SLK, and SL (because the SL has a different type of suspension, the ABC)) have the AIRMATIC suspension. This automatically levels the vehicle and also has a button which you can push to raise the height of the car.

Q: What do you think of the new mercedes e class sedan?
good car? would you prefer the upcoming 5series to it?
good for someone in their 20s? is it too “OLD” for someone in their 20s?

whattt are your opinions on it?

A: It is more a family mans car or business mans car,not for me with 22,.

Q: How long before the Mercedes E class changes its body style drastically not subtle changes?
I am thinking of buying a 2004 e320 and I don’t want to buy it and in 2008 they change the body completly? I know small changes were made in 2007 but does anyone have any idea of when the body will change completly?

A: MB usually changes it’s body styles every 8-10 years> E is probably going to ge a change in ‘08 or ‘09 but it will not be a radical change. Look at the new S class It will probably just have sleeker lines. The “04 looks good go for it.

Q: is the new dodge charger the best looking design for a car in the last 15 years?

A: I would have to say no and I am a big mopar fan. The best design in my opinion is the Viper followed by the challenger.

Q: How does the new Dodge Charger compare with the old Charger?
Body styling, engine, interior, legacy

A: Obviously most of you are speaking out of emotion. The new Charger is superior in almost every quantifiable way. I’ve read magazine tests that pitted an 05 Hemi R/T head-to-head against a 69 Hemi R/T SE. the 2005 smoked the 69 in the 1/4 mile, 0-60, slalom, skidpad, and obliterated the 69 in braking. Not to mention it gets 20 mpg, rides like a dream, has a CD player and Sirrius satellite radio, dual airbags, and more cupholders than you can shake a stick at. Not to mention the rear seat passengers don’t have to be contortionists to get into the car.
Don’t get me wrong. I love old mopars as much as the next guy, but when I take my family anywhere do you think we all pile into my old Dart or my wife’s 05 Magnum?

Q: Is it worth buying a new Dodge charger R/T (V8 engine) with todays uprising prices on gas?

A: their nice cars but like you said gas is rising,that would totally be up to you if it was me buying one right now i would wait and see what gas prices do,if they go any higher then it would cost a small fortune just to drive that car,i like the charger but with gas prices already high,i wouldn’t buy one right now,that choice would be up to you,ask your self do you want to pay that much to drive a car like that right now,good luck.

Q: How much will it cost to put rear tinted windows on my new 08 Dodge Charger?
Ballpark figure, parts and labor

A: its just a film thats applyed to the existing window…. about a hundred bucks.

Q: Can u put a supercharger in a NEW Dodge Charger ?

A: you could do it,but you would be talking about changing everything on it to make it work right ,that car really isn’t set up to run a super charger,any of the older ones you could do this to a lot easier than on this one,good luck.

Q: What do you think of the new Dodge Charger RT?

A: Well…at least it’s not a Ford, right?

Q: Are the new dodge Charger’s good cars?
I keep hearing bad things about them. Are they that bad. I was thinking about getting an 08 or 09. But every one is saying they are trash they don’t last long. The brakes go to fast and so on.

A: lol what?! where did you hear that? I’ve never heard that lol. Theyre great cars. Have a LIFETIME warranty for a reason that theyre dependable and reliable. and smokin fast! I drove a R/T the other day and yeah those have great muscle and a great ride too! It handles bumps very well. LOTS better than my 2002 maxima and thats hard to admit. I love Nissan and Dodge both build great vehicles that last for ever. With MOPAR parts you can do alot with your charger!

Does ford or gm offer a warranty that good? nope because it would cost them too much money for all the repairs their cars and trucks have.

Q: cops: your opinion on the new dodge charger?
I’ve been noticing more and more that cops are using the new Dodge Charger instead of a crown vic. There was also an article in our paper today that Dodge is hoping to replace the Ford crown vic with the charger. What is your opinion on that officers? If your station has them, do you get the 6.1L 425HP V8 or do you get stuck with the V6? What would you want for your station? Just curious

http://autos.msn.com/research/vip/overview.aspx?year=2008&make=Dodge&model=Charger&trimid=-1

A: I had the opportunity to test drive the hemi police charger at TREXPO. It really blows away the crown vic. Even the V-6 charger is comparable in power to the crown vic. The charger is a bit more cramped however, so the big guys may not like it quite as much. The police package Tahoe had a good showing too and is a bit more equipment friendly.

I would have to put the Charger first, followed closely by the Tahoe and the crown vic last.

Q: thinking of buying a new Dodge Charger?
Wondering if anyone has any feedback? Love it/hate it? Pros/cons? Thanks!

A: I have an 07 Charger R/T with road and track its the best car and the most comfortable car I’ve ever owned and I’m 61. At 80 mph my 5.7 hemi gets 26.5mpg. In town if I don’t play with it to much I get 21. It needs the 3.5 V6 or the Hemi for the fun factor. My car has only been back for oil changes thats it not one single problem.

Chrysler, Ford, GM American rides, American pride

Q: how much did a brand new dodge charger cost in 1967?

A: According to a 1967 Motor Trend road test the base price was $ 3122.00

But few were sold without options, since this was with the 383 V-8 and no options like power steering. ( 426 Hemi V-8 added $1000.00 so they could cost much more )

As for the above answer, in 1967 you could have bought a VW Beetle for $1500.00 but the Mustang would have been a 1965 ( 6cyl ) with 20,000 miles. lol

Q: Where do I rent a new Mustang, Dodge Charger or another muscle car in Raleigh, North Carolina?
Am going there on holiday in a few weeks time so any help would be appreciated! Cheers.

A: call the car rental companies at raliegh airport to set up the rental you want for when you will be there

Q: what do you guys think about the new dodge charger?
im curious ! i just want to see if it´s me or….

A: its an amazing car. would look cool if a girl drove it.

Q: Does the new Dodge Charger RT Hemi with a standard exhaust system have a unique V8 growl?

A: weak compared to a mustang

Q: are the new dodge chargers a good buy?
I am looking at a newer dodge charger, 2007-2009. I heard that at one time they had bad transmissions. Are there any problems with any of these years and if so, did they get fixed?

A: the newer ones aren’t so bad on repairs,the transmissions in the newer ones aren’t as bad as they was when they first came out,chrysler has got most of the problems with them worked out,the most problems you,ll probably have will be from some of the electrical on them,and that’s going to be limited to small things not working right on it,for the most part you,ll be satisfied with it,im thinking of buying an 06 for 5 grand with almost 90 thousand on it,and its a good car,good luck.

Q: Local Police has a new Dodge Charger as their police car, can my Yamaha FZ6 Motorcycle out-run it?
top speed of my bike is 144 MPH
If he catches me and gets me for a DUI, I can lose my job cause my job requires a clean drivers licence

A: Motorola can out run that bike of yours in a 1963 bug (32hp).
In any event to out run the police you have to have two things, a darn good head start. a good lay of the roads, and 45 seconds. anything past that and Mr two way radio is going to get you
I have been busted for that stupid crap 4 times and have pulled it off 6 times. the ones that worked was Kawasaki 250cc Mach I, Yamaha V Max, 1976 F100 (300 six) 1969 Hurst Olds 442. The stuff that did not work, 1987 Kawasaki 750 Ltd, 1972 Montego (428cid) 1991 Corvett.
The total fun, loosing cars and fines and total of 90 days in jail was well over $50,000
So go knock yourself out, be dumb, and be ready to pay cash, cars, your life, and maybe someonelses
By the way in many states it it cald feloney aluding. and nothing will put a nox nix on jobs etc than a felony. That way when you do smartenup u can cry about it the rest of your life

Q: Is Bentley GT SPEED a must have car to own?
i’m thinking of leasing the 2009 Bentley GT coupe. Im going to go to the dealership and tell them that $200 a month for 36 months is my final offer. Ofcourse i’m going to start at like $150 a month and then go up see where he’ll stop me. I went to Infinite and their G37 coupe was around $340 a month. Which do you think is the car i should get? Which is cooler?

A: Bentley will be a lot more than that!!

Q: I have Lamborghini Gallardo and a Bentley Speed GT. One of them has to go! Any ideas?
They are both, fast, exclusive cars. And I love both of them, but its just too much in terms of parking them in the garage, getting crazy attention…etc. Plus I’m married and the female attention is a little too much.

A: I would keep the Lamborghini.

But the smarter decision in your case would be to keep the Bently because it is more practical.

Q: what car is better ferrari california or bentley gt speed?
which one is better and why

A: You should also consider that such a car may be expensive to insure. Check your insurance rates before buying one, for example here – carinsurance.yoll.net

Q: 2009 porsche 911 turbo or 2008 bentley gt speed?
O.k. i want to know if you could would you rather have a 2008 bentley gt speed or a 2009 porsche 911 turbo. if you choose the bentley why ?, and if you choose the porsche why AND would you get it in manual or tiptronic and as usual why ? thank you !
thank u guyz so much 4 the info….but i thought the gt speed has a mph of 202 versus the 911 which has a top speed of 193. as sed by porsche anyway !. also like i sed, if the porsche is chosen would u get the tiptronic or manual transmision ?.

A: Porsche 911 Turbo is less than 500hp and not even a V8 from what I know. It has cheap interior and the seats are not comfortable at all. I don’t think its worth its money. (130K)

Bentley GT in the other hand is 600hp and its V12. Imagine what a V12 can do. Its really fast, I’m sure it can beat a 911 turbo any day. Bentley also got great interiors, very luxurious. You get respected more with a Bentley than a 911 turbo. (160K)

If you purchase these cars, you wouldn’t probably mind the 30K difference. I’d go with the Bentley.

Q: SL63 AMG vs. Bentley Continental GT Speed?
I have the Bentley and I might possibly trade it in for the SL63, good idea?

A: NO!!! Bentley is more pimp! F**K MERCEDES. Stay with Bentley!!!

Q: Bentley v. Infiniti cars?
im getting a 2009 bentley GT speed for $30,000. I’m getting that instead of the $34,000 2009 Infinite G37 Coupe. Do you think the Infinite would have been the better car to get or do you think the Bentley is cooler? I don’t know what i think.

A: the only bentley you can get for 30k is 4 inches long and made of plastic

Q: should i buy a rolls royce phantom or a bentley continental gt ?
i want a car with looks , speed , and luxury. Any other options would also be considered .
Thanks

A: You should also consider that such a car may be expensive to insure. Check your insurance rates before buying one, for example here – carinsurance.deep-ice.com

Q: How much does these cars cost (latest price)?
1. Maserati GranTurismo S
2. Lamborghini Gallardo
3. Ferrari 430
4. Bentley GT Speed
5. Bentley GTC Speed
6. Ferrari 599
7. Ferrari 612
8. Aston Martin Vantage V8
9. Aston Martin DB9

Car prices must be in USD, and every cars have flappy paddle gearbox (example: F1 gearbox, TipTronic, E-Gear, etc.)

A: Maserati: $130,000
Lamborghini Gallardo: Ranges from $175,000 for a 2006 base, to $201,000 for a 2009 Gallardo LP560-4
F430: From $168,005
GT Speed: $199,990
GTC Speed: $220,000
599: N.A from my source
612: $250,509
Vantage: $120,000
DB9: $169,750

Hope this helped.

Q: How much does these cars cost?
1. Maserati GranTurismo S
2. Lamborghini Gallardo
3. Ferrari 430
4. Bentley GT Speed
5. Bentley GTC Speed
6. Ferrari 599
7. Ferrari 612
8. Aston Martin Vantage V8
9. Aston Martin DB9

Car prices must be in USD, and every cars have flappy paddle gearbox (example: F1 gearbox, TipTronic, E-Gear, etc.)

A: Maserati: $130,000
Lamborghini Gallardo: Ranges from $175,000 for a 2006 base, to $201,000 for a 2009 Gallardo LP560-4
F430: From $168,005
GT Speed: $199,990
GTC Speed: $220,000
599: N.A from my source
612: $250,509
Vantage: $120,000
DB9: $169,750

Hope this helped.

Q: Does this prove money does not bring happiness but love does?
I have a house in tha hills, 2009 Bentley gt speed, Gucci, Loui V everything but when my girl is constantly traveling everywhere so she is never home and I’m not unhappy but not over joyed even with all this stuff. But she comes back for like 2 weeks and life can’t be any better ! What do you think
Im not a celeb but my girl is tryin to blow up as a singer and she had some good experience but her label is wack, but I do work with celebs

A: A better way to put that,, so no one would think you were bragging,, would have been ‘compared to all my nice and pricey things,, I never feel better than when my girlfriend comes back’. And yes,, I’ve always known love = happiness. Because love touches you in your soul’s desire – not just your heart’s desire,,like money does.

Q: lets say u got $250k to buy a car..what would you buy?
no i havent won the lottery lol…i havent got 250k! im just curious as to what people would buy.

me? id buy a bentley continental gt speed! why? because its fast and comfortable at the same time. its practical and can be used as a daily driver.

A: Tesla Roadster, I can be enviromentally friendly and still make a statement.

Q: A Bentley GTC or a GT?
So, me and my uncle were kidding around, and he said he’d buy me a Bentley. But this made me start to think, if he was serious, which would I get?
I know I’d get it either in black with black/white interior but which would fit me more? Also, both in the speed.
(I’m pretty sure he wont buy me, but I’d like to know which would be better.)

A: your uncle is kidding. this conversation is irrelevant to what the future holds for you.

oh and the gtc is for prissy spoiled girls. GT speed all the way.

Q: What car to get?
Ime 17 and I live in England. I am getting my 1st car and I don’t know what car to get.
My father gave me 4 options. porsche kayene jeep, marcedese gl500, bentley continental gt speed or a cadillac escalade.
I like all 4 cars and I just need some advice on which one to get, which one won’t go down in value very quickly and which one is easier to drive and looks more prestigious? Thanks!

A: oh my god!!!!
I WOULD LOVE TO BE YOU!!!! GO WITH THE BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GT!!!!!!
AND HEY IF YOU WANT YOU CAN GET ME ANY ONE OF THE OTHER CARS. (it would be greatly appreciated trust me)

Q: what should i get ? ?
Okay im trying to decide on wether i should get a Rolls Royce drop head coupe or a Bentley continental gt speed

A: neither, get a holden!!~!

Q: What’s a better first car?
i’m 22 and i’m getting my first car. I’m thinking about leasing it and i want to get a 36 month deal with 10,000-12,000 miles. I won’t be doing much driving only on weekends and not far at that. I’ve driven since i was 15 and i never had a scratch, bump, accident, or even any type of ticket. So i’m thinking of leasing either a 2009 Infinite G37 Sedan or a Lexus IS350 AWD or a Mercedes Benz C class or a Bentley Continental GT speed.

So which do you think is the better choice? I know they’re all around the same monthly price too.
The2009 G37 is around $300 monthly. The 2009 C class is around $350, and the 2009 bentley speed is around $300 monthly. Maybe i should go with the bentley since that is a coupe and i always wanted a coupe.

A: You should also consider that such a car may be expensive to insure. Check your insurance rates before buying one, for example here – autoinsurance.hotusa.org

Q: 2011 BMW X5 M vs. 2011 Range Rover Supercharged vs 2011 Porsche Cayenne Turbo?
so I decided to get a luxury powerful SUV and can’t decide between these 3 i love the way the range rover supercharged looks and the interior drives me crazy it is so amazing same with the cayenne turbo, the x5 m disappoints me by the exterior and interior but the technology, features and performance is one of the best i can not decide i need peoples personal opinions please be specific why one over the other!
@ Spoo Gen: thank you

@ Stupid Flanders: i asked between the 3 cars i named im not going to get anything but european

A: All of them are pointless.Not suited for off-road driving(Range excluded),consuming too much and polluting,and on the road,they aren’t as good as a pure road car.Anyway,i think that the Range Rover is the best choice,because it is able off road,really luxurious,and you like its appearance.It consumes too much and it is huge,but better than the others.The X5 is the fastest,the best on road,handles brilliantly,yet is not really an ”M car.The Cayenne is midle of the road.Not completely useless off road,not as good as an X5 on road.In my opinion,you should get a BMW M5 Touring,a Mercedes E63 AMG Station or an Audi RS6 Avant.Practical and brilliant.They might not get you off road,but i don’t think you want something like this really.

Q: Has Porsche discontinued the Cayenne GTS Manual Transmission for 2011?
Porsche has a special version of the Cayenne called the Cayenne GTS. In performance terms is sits between the Cayenne S and the Cayenne Turbo. It is unique in that it comes standard with a manual transmission where the S and the turbo only come in automatic. I dont see the GTS version as being available on the Porsche website.

A: Odd that the S would only come in automatic?
Seems contradictory.
But I also could no longer find GTS references.
I will never buy an automatic as long as I live.

Q: Tesla Roadster?
Alright, a Tesla Roadster is coming to auto dealerships on July 20th in California. Starting price is around $100,000.

How hard would it be to get a loan to buy a car that expensive for a person with no credit???

How much would you have to pay a month if… on a 72 month plan have to pay off $105,000 with APR being at 25%???

A: You are looking at about 2200 a month plus insurance and most likely you will need a bit of upkeep for that sportscar, so I’m guessing owner cost will be in the 2700 a month range.

Q: How much energy Tesla Roadster required to travel one mile?
The Roadster’s battery can hold about 55 kwh of energy, and has a range of 220 miles in between charge. How can I find how much energy the Tesla will use to travel one mile?

A: in 1 mile, it travels 1/220 or 0.0045455 of it’s total range, and uses the same proportion of it’s total energy.

so 55 kw-hr x 0.0045455 = 0.25 kw-hr per mile, or 250 watt-hr per mile. ⬅

just for curiosity, gasoline has an energy density of 36.6 kWh/US gal
So the tesla numbers converted to miles per gallon is:
36.6 kWh/gal / 0.25 kw-hr/mile = 146 miles per gallon

.

Q: Is the tesla coil associated with the Tesla Roadster?
I want to know if the tesla coil technology is used in the Tesla Roadster. Please give a valid source, I am doing this for a grade. Thanks!

A: I doubt it, though EVERY i.c. engine has a spark coil in it. A tesla-coil so to speak. Nothing special in the Roadster i suspect. It’s just a catchy name most likely

And Nicolai Tesla WAS a genius, un-credited for some of the greatest discoveries related to electrical engg at that time.

Q: What is operating voltage range of the Tesla Roadster?
What is voltage level of the lithium Ion battery pack in the Tesla Roadster? Or what is the normal operating voltage range used to power the motor?
I found it. Battery outout is a nominal 375 Volts. 56Kwhours. You would have to be careful messing around with that much voltage!

A: “over 200 kW of electrical power during peak acceleration — enough power to illuminate 2,000 incandescent light bulbs.”

I don’t know if this answer Your question cause I don’t understand the difference between the V or the kW.
You’ve already dug into the official site isn’t it?

Anyway for all those that don’t know about this monster car

http://www.teslamotors.com/engineering/how_it_works.php

Q: Does the electric Tesla Roadster have an alternator?
You know how all gasoline powered cars have an alternator that turns when the engine turns, right? Does the electric Tesla Roadster have anything like this?

A: Technically Yes. The common car Alternator is a three induction alternator (with built in rectifier). Bypass the rectifier and it can make a handy three phase motor. (low voltage)

The main drive motor of the Tesla is a three phase four pole induction motor. It is far more powerful than the common car alternator. It is used as an alternator during regenerative braking.

The main battery of the Tesla is 366 v but it also requires a low voltage supply for computers,lights, instruments, radio etc.

I’d have to have a guess here, because I can’t find info . The most likely source would be from a dc to dc inverter supplied from the main battery. Electronic inverters are lighter and more versatile than an alternator running of the drive system.

Anyway here is a link that shows the motor/alternator. There is more info here so enjoy the read.

http://auto.howstuffworks.com/tesla-roadster1.htm

In case your wondering there is a “magic box ” that converts dc battery power into a variable frequency, variable voltage three phase power to drive the motor. The box is full of IGBT’s and power MOSFETs if your that way inclined.

Q: When the cost of replacement batteries are figured in, what is the $ per mile for driving the Tesla Roadster?
I know when the cost of electricity is considered the cost per mile when driving the Tesla Roadster is amazing (granted, the vehicle costs a fortune to buy in the first place)…

But what about if you consider the cost of replacement batteries? Is this information even available out there? How many miles are the batteries expected to last for?

A: Unfortunately there is no information available for the cost of the replacement battery pack for the Tesla Roadster. However, if you find out this information along with the expected lifetime of the pack, you can amortize the cost of the battery pack per mile (by dividing cost of battery pack by number of miles in its lifetime) and then adding that to the cost per mile that you calculate without battery information.

Q: Why does the Tesla Roadster use an inverter?
The Tesla Roadster uses a 3 phase 4 pole AC motor. Since the motor is AC (alternating current), why does is there an inverter to convert the AC into DC? Isn’t it better to use AC for AC is stronger than DC?

A: *facepalm*

- Bill Clinton

Q: Where can I find reliable long-term owner-based reviews of the Tesla Roadster electric car?
Although the car magazine writers have written glowing review articles, I see that a one-year old Tesla roadster electric car on ebay appears to be worth approximately $50,000 which is a steep drop from the original cost of at least $130,000 and up to $150,000 with optional equipment and extended warranty.

A: You might start with he WiKi article that is well documented with reviews and references: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tesla_Roadster

Here is a story about 3 Tesla Roadsters on Ebay. http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/17/using-ebay-and-a-tesla-roadster-to-beat-the-recession/ The first went for $50,000 OVER ITS STICKER PRICE and the other two are well over the price you found. It seems that if you can get one for $50,000 you should definitely snatch it up. Forget about the reviews as they are only one sign of value, a normal market value alone should be enough to allow you to resell it at a substantial profit if the market were not depressed as it is presently. As one of the first successful electric vehicles they should also be worth a great deal on the resale market in good condition.

Q: Can solar panels provide enough energy to power a tesla roadster?
Like solar pannels on top the house to power my house, then plugging the car in.

A: If you mean can I put solar panels on the car and make it go, then no. If you mean can I put solar panels on the roof of my house and charge the car, then yes. If you covered the roof of your house with solar cell you could get up to 50 miles a day with the power you would produce.

Q: Is the Tesla Roadster going to get “killed” like the other electric cars by the stupid oil companies?
The Tesla is a big problem for big oil. Since they basically control the government with their puppet of a president, they might try to stop it from being made.

A: The Tesla costs 98.000$. The fuel cost is less then 2c/mile.
Based on the average fuel consumption of American cars, which is 27.5 miles per gallon, and the price per gallon, which is 2.23$/gallon, it costs 8.11c to drive an ordinary car 1 mile making the cost of the Tesla to less then 1/4th the fuel cost of ordinary cars.

Q: What is the cost of one full battery charge for the Tesla Roadster?
I like that electric sportscar. But is it really as efficient as they say? Wouldn’t your power bill end up looking a lot like your fuel bill used to with a regular car if you used it in the same manner?

A: Ken Guru has provided all necessary information.

First to answer your question:
53kWh are on average 53 x 12cents/ kWh = US$6.-
(Note, compare if you will the energy content of the Tesla battery to a 9 kg propane tank, which has 125kWh and costs around US $15.-)

But, in the end it is all “smoke and mirrors”. Price of electricity, oil, coal, natural gas are “market driven” and contain many hidden costs, .e.g. taxes and the “war in Iraq”. (Explain to me, why OPEC charges > $ 80.- per barrel when the cost ex Saudi oil field is less than $5.-.)

Here to put things into perspective is an estimate of the REAL fuel consumption of the Tesla: Weight of the car 1220kg, of that 425kg for the batteries. I.e the car itself weighs ~ 800kg.

For comparison, VW’s “Lupo” (built until 2005) had a weight of 830kg. (That car died because the public did not care about fuel consumption.)

Tesla: 1.7 ltr/ 100km (135 mpg). The “Lupo” had just below 3 ltr./ 100km (80 mpg).

The efficiency of the power plant and distribution network in delivering the electrical “juice” to the Tesla is ~ 30%, i.e. the REAL “fuel consumed” at the power plant (in terms of oil, natural gas, wind power) for the Tesla translates to only 40 to 43 mpg. Surprised?

To repeat this result, the VW “Lupo”, a Diesel powered car, was almost twice as efficient as the Tesla is today: 3ltr/ 100 km versus 5.5 ltr./ 100km (or 80 versus 40 mpg).

The reason for the much higher “fuel consumption” of the Tesla is that it must carry an extra 425kg of batteries (~5 people) all the time. No fuel tank that gets lighter on “empty”.

And this does not yet consider the issue of having to heat the Tesla. The drive train of the Tesla produces no “waste” heat. That waste heat from combustion of gasoline in a normal car is 70% of the total. It comes “free”. For the Tesla the waste heat stays at the electrical power plant. For any Electrical Vehicle in a cold winter you must therefore add ~ 30% in fuel consumption (or the mpg divided by 1.3). Now the Tesla is down to 35 mpg..

Admitted, the Tesla is faster. But, the US speed limit is generally around 65mph.

Also the Tesla has much lower wind resistance. But then it is a two seater sports car. The VW Lupo had 4 seats, perhaps give or take one.

And finally,
ZEVs (Zero Emission Vehicles) are really EEVs (“Elsewhere Emission Vehicles”).

@Dana1981: The efficiency of the electric ‘engine’ is NOT the issue. A Diesel engine in your car can be as efficient as the average utility power plant! The Tesla weighs more than a ton. Because it carries “dead weight”, all those batteries. That is why the FULL CYCLE fuel consumption of the Tesla (car + power plant) is a disaster.

Also in Ken Guru’s excellent link you will find that with my assumption of 12 cents/ kWh, the cost per mile is 3 cents (not 2 cents). This per Tesla.

“There are liars, there are damn liars, and there is the EV industry.”

@Glenn B. Hate to disagree. Regenerative braking is a featue which most people do not want to use too much, many studies done. That is just not the way we drive. “Regen” is not aggressive enough for most people. Other issue: size and extra cost of the required super-capacitors if “regen” were to be made effective.

But that is not really the issue. The extra battery weight is about the ONLY reason why the Tesla does not cut it. Note in Ken Guru’s link they admit to “my” argument. I think, I saw 48mpg for the full cycle (but that was under the old EPA rules). My 43 mpg is about right.

Your argument however is correct, with the combustion engine efficiency being a function of RPM. That is why diesel hybrids would be ideal. BUT, the US does not have “enough” diesel refinery capacities. In fact we must import diesel fuel already today. No refineries built in this country since 1979 (gas or diesel)! That is why FORD discontinued their work on diesel hybrids (as then ‘world leader’). And that is why GM does their “diesel” work now in Torino (Italy), incidentally winning year after year “best this and best that European diesel engine”. The full cycle efficiencies of those new GM designs equal the Tesla vehicle’s at any given time.

One real reason why EV are tested most of the time in Southern California is the “air quality”. Also the Southern California climate does not require a big electrical heater in the EV.

Q: Who is excited about the Tesla Roadster?
All electric sports car. 137mph. 0-60 in 4 secs. 250 miles on a full charge that takes 3 hours. That is soooo much better than going to the pump so often. I can’t wait for the next ones they make under $50k.

A: ————
People may not realize it quite yet, but this is the beginning of a revolution in transportation. It has been in our local newspapers here in Detroit, that Tesla is coming here to hire engineering talent for their upcoming electric family sedan.
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The Tesla is not alone, either. Look at this car:
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http://phoenixmotorcars.com/models/fleet.html
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The Phoenix electric pickup truck – using new, advanced Altairnano batteries (based on research from MIT) – can:

-Travel up to 250 miles per charge
-Carry 5 passengers plus cargo at 95mph.
-Charges batteries in as little as TEN MINUTES.
-Has batteries that last 250,000 miles (never need replacement.)
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Plus, I have been following, over the past year, news of at least two other emerging battery technologies that are as good or better than the Altairnanos above.
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Incidentally, in response to one of the other posters, new Li-Ion battery designs are not hazardous – the Altairnano design has been tested by crushing and puncturing, with no fire or explosion resulting (which makes it safer than gasoline.)
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Likewise, other negative speculations you may see about EV batteries are usually based on the assumption that battery technology has not evolved in the past 30 years.
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Technology does not stand still.
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Q: How much does a Tesla Roadster cost?
How much does it cost? What model and make is it? What website has a suitable dealer for it??

A: Not sure of the total cost, but, you can go through the ordering process and probably find out.
http://www.teslamotors.com/index.php?js_enabled=1
Premium Buyer pays $50,000 USD down.
Patient Buyer pays $30,000 USD down.
Base price excludes tax and state fees. Cars are available for sale and delivery exclusively in the contiguous United States. Your car will be reserved when we receive your reservation payment. The delivery date is an estimate and is subject to change.

Q: What are the cons of the 2008 Tesla Roadster?
I know this car has 148 hp, can get about 250 miles off one charge, and is 100% electric, but what are the cons of this car?

A: The amount of time it takes for this car to “refuel.” You need to leave it plugged in for a few hours for it to charge.

Plug-in Hybrids IMHO are a better solution– You run out of charge, it switches to gasoline engine power until you can get home to charge it overnight.

Q: what companys are supplying the battery for the chevy volt and the tesla roadster?
i need to know what company makes these batterys for these cars. also who is the leading company for alternative fuels like hydrogen

A: Tesla battery is by a chinese company, as I know. but the name cannot be leaked out