Category Archives: Just for Fun

What’s your Favorite movie car

We all have them: The favorite movie car. In fact, apparently this is a hot debate among some circles: “Is Bandit’s Trans Am better than the Bullet? Does the new Batmobile even hold a candle to Adam West’s Mean machine in the series? What about James Bond? How can you not love his submarine Lotus Esprit with the Explosive Alarm System? Well, cars.com decided to do a little compare and contrast. Check out their top 10 below!
No. 10: 2003 Mini Cooper S, “The Italian Job”

Drivetrain: 163-hp, supercharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with six-speed manual transmission; front-wheel drive
Notable Features: 200 pounds lighter than stock Cooper S; painted red, white or blue

Larger cars would have rubbed fenders with light poles and tunnel walls, but thanks to a nimble fleet of Mini Coopers, a band of conspirators manages to escape captors down congested streets, parks and subway tunnels. (Parks? Mass transit? In Los Angeles?) Computer-rigged signals aid the getaway, stopping cross traffic at red lights. Sounds like California dreaming for drivers.

No. 9: 1959 Cadillac Ambulance, “Ghostbusters”

Drivetrain: 325-hp, 6.4-liter V-8; rear-wheel drive
Notable Features: Tailfins, flashing lights, sirens, attached ladder

Though it plays a relatively small part in its film, the Ectomobile is the finest medical movie car to date. What it lacks in brute force it makes up in style, with red tailfins, strobe lights and more roof gear than a fire truck. Should there ever be a remake, our pick for the new Ectomobile would be the Dodge Magnum. Right, Egon?

No. 8: 1974 Dodge Monaco, “The Blues Brothers”

Drivetrain: 275-hp, 7.1-liter V-8 with three-speed automatic transmission; rear-wheel drive
Notable Features: Cop motor, cop tires, cop suspension, cop shocks

You usually don’t come out ahead when swapping a Caddy for a Dodge — unless the Dodge has a 440-cubic-inch V-8. The Bluesmobile would be our pick if we had to outrun the better half of Illinois police, not to mention a neo-Nazi outfit and a country-and-western band. The car totally falls apart in the end, but you’d be hard-pressed to find a vehicle that could do better on “a mission from God.”

No. 7: 1932 Ford coupe, “American Graffiti”

Drivetrain: 60-hp, 3.6-liter V-8 with three-speed manual transmission
Notable Features: Bright yellow paint job bound to be noticed by bored teens in Modesto, Calif.

Nicknamed the “Deuce,” this five-window ’32 Ford coupe is the quintessential American hot rod. As built, it came with the engine mentioned above, but in the movie, it’s clear the coupe has been souped up. It was the car’s awesome growl and the cool drag race at the end of the movie that lodged this hot rod into the hearts of American teens for a decade.

No. 6: 1976 AMC Pacer, “Wayne’s World”

Drivetrain: 100-hp inline-six with three-speed automatic transmission; rear-wheel drive
Notable Features: Flame decal, licorice dispenser, “Bohemian Rhapsody” on continuous playback

Although this movie may not have driven thousands of people to track down a baby blue Mirth Mobile of their own, it did inspire a number of in-car, head-banging singalongs by fans of the film.

No. 5: 1968 Ford Mustang GT 390, “Bullitt”

Drivetrain: 325-hp, 6.4-liter V-8 with four-speed manual transmission; rear-wheel drive
Notable Features: Fastback roof, higher engine note than the Charger

Never mind the continuity mishaps; just tell yourself there were a lot of green Volkswagen Beetles in San Francisco that day. The seven-minute chase scene between Frank Bullitt’s Mustang GT 390 and a hit man’s 1968 Dodge Charger is among the best of its kind. Voters gave Bullitt’s car the edge because, in the end, you have to root for the good guy.

No. 4: 1964 Aston Martin DB5, “Goldfinger”

Drivetrain: 282-hp, 4.0-liter six-cylinder with four-speed manual transmission; rear-wheel drive
Notable Features: Bulletproof glass, machine guns, incessantly beeping radar screen

Save for the anemic BMW Z3 1.9 in “GoldenEye,” Bond cars are top-notch — the list includes Aston Martins, Bentleys and Lotuses — but voters agreed the champ is the Aston Martin DB5 in “Goldfinger.” Not only is it gorgeous, it outruns and out-gadgets all of its competitors. Plus it gets plenty of screen time with the best Bond, Sean Connery. Any dissenters, of course, are welcome to ride in the “power” passenger seat.

No. 3: 1961 Ferrari 250 GT, “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off”

Drivetrain: 280-hp, 3.0-liter V-12 with four-speed manual transmission; rear-wheel drive
Notable Features: Cherry-red exterior, wire grille, Cameron-sized tonneau compartment

This movie is probably responsible for thousands of teens cutting class to joyride in their father’s car. Of course, none hold a candle to Mr. Frye’s convertible Ferrari. It won votes for all the obvious reasons: It’s red, Italian and bloody fast. If our fathers owned something like this, we’d ditch Econ 101 in a heartbeat to take a spin — especially if Dad didn’t lock the garage. (And yes, we know this was a kit car.)

No. 2: 1977 Pontiac Trans Am, “Smokey and the Bandit”

Drivetrain: 200-hp, 6.6-liter V-8 with three-speed automatic
Notable Features: T-top, CB radio, runaway bride in the passenger seat

The mission seemed simple enough: Get a truckload of bootleg beer from Texarkana, Texas, to Atlanta while Bo “Bandit” Darville runs interference in his Trans Am. The combination of the comical car chases and Burt Reynolds’ mustache sold more than a few black and gold versions of Bandit’s car.

No. 1: 1981 DeLorean DMC-12, “Back to the Future”

Drivetrain: 1.21-gigawatt nuclear/electric hybrid with five-speed manual transmission; rear-wheel drive
Notable Features: Gull-wing doors, 16-port twin exhaust boxes, flux capacitor

This was an overwhelming choice for voters, and why not? Doc Brown’s smoke-spewing DeLorean achieves time travel at 88 mph thanks to a plutonium-powered nuclear reactor and onboard flux capacitor. By the end of the first movie, it runs solely on trash — and it can fly. That’s still futuristic two decades after the movie debuted. Sure, the ignition seems to have some reliability issues, but this car easily won our hearts.

Can anyone out there ad to this list? If so Leave a comment or let us know! It’s all in good fun and hopefully made your day a little brighter remembering the coolest cars from your youth!

Can a Bullet Proof Gel save lives in a car accident?

…and no, I’m not talking about stopping bullets here, but cars. That’s right, an emerging technology that could have a major impact on the way cars are designed in the future is currently being developed, with the new technology having the potential to save thousands of lives in serious car crashes.
According to a report by motorauthority.com:

The new technology is a special gel called d3o, which was developed by British chemical engineering company d3o Lab. The gel is described as a dilatant material and has the ability to harden almost instantly when violently impacted, such as from the force exerted from a speeding bullet or an oncoming car. In its natural state it resembles play dough.

Military groups are currently looking at the material as a lightweight and flexible padding for armored vests and this has led automakers such as Mazda to investigate d3o’s use in an automotive setting.

Speaking with Carsguide, Mazda’s European R&D chief, Peter Birtwhistle, said innovations such as d3o were “fascinating” and presented “glimpses of future design”.

He went on to explain that d3o could be used around a car’s cabin, such as in the lining of seats or around a baby’s bassinet. “It has unlimited applications in a car to protect its occupants,” he said.

Right now, this protective gel is being used in numerous protective products like motorcycle gloves, ski jackets, cell phone cases and more products are emerging with the added protection of the compound.

Here’s a quick video on how it works:

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vqDe0C4OKbM

It’s a pretty amazing material and has a nearly unlimited number of protective applications.

I’d really like to see this applied to the automotive world. How do you see this compound being used in the protective systems of today’s cars, trucks and SUVs? Does anyone have first hand experience with d3O? If so tell me about it!

I Spy “The Great One” in Dallas- The Pontiac GTO

All rise for “The Judge”!

I love this car growing up and recently ran into a near mint Pontiac GTO. I instantly flashed back to the days when I’d drool over “The Great One.”

For your viewing pleasure…a little bit of nostalgia

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Vrc2b5qtLk

Here’s the one I ran across. Man, it was an amazing sight. Beautifully kept! I’d love to get one here in Grapevine on my lot!

Tips for Vacationing in Your New Car

Thinking about taking “The Family Truckster” on the road? Here are some guidelines to get you and your vehicle geared up for the trip.

* It’s a good idea that, before you hit the road, get your vehicle inspected. A basic inspection is not very expensive and will cover the brakes, tires, suspension, lights, cooling system, and other basic drive train components

* Make sure your tire pressure before you leave on a road trip. Most tires require between 30-32psi.

* Pack an emergency kit with you. A good emergency kit should include a flashlight, a first aid kit, jumper cables, gloves, rope, and power point tire pump.

* Always bring extra water. Although you may be traveling on major roads, you’ll be thankful if you have a flat tire or breakdown miles from the nearest exit.

* Learn how to change a flat tire before you leave! Practice in your driveway a few times before you head out on your trip.

* While on the road, try to take a 15 minute break every 2 hours.

* this is probably the most important tip…Pack plenty of entertainment for children! Travel toys and games can help pass the time.

* Whenever you travel make sure that everyone has proper identification and required documentation.

A road trip can be a fun experience. Follow these tips to make sure it’s a safe and enjoyable journey.

Get your Car a New Suit

Accessorize..accessorize…accessorize. Just because everyone drives a car or truck doesn’t mean they all have to look the same. Take wheels for example. Many custom design and body shops provide the car enthusiast a wide collection of car wheel products. All types, looks, sizes and flair. Generally, wheels convey diverse concepts to different people around the globe. However, they remain one of the most significant discoveries of human civilization; wheels have helped activate dynamic force that is necessary for convenient travel and transport in today’s world. Just imagine what cavemen would think of spinners today?

Choosing the perfect wheels, rims, lights and other parts for your car is very important. Cardinal Rule Number 1: While purchasing these parts for your car, make sure that you do not end up with goods that are stolen, lost, overused or faulty. Usually, wheels easily turn around at ten times per second or 600 times a minute. If you purchase low quality wheels for your car, they will have adverse effects on the overall performance of your vehicles. This decision of yours will most probably destroy the tire of your car at any moment or can cause sever wear and tear on bearing and other vital parts of the vehicle. Therefore, wheel design and construction are important factors to be considered while choosing car tires. Try to better understand the function, design and quality of a wheel before purchasing it.

What about lights? Automobile lights are also available in different types such as headlights, tail-lights, neo undercarriage lights, interior lights that change color…if you want it they make it. These lights can make your vehicle more attractive and also to increase its exterior styling. Many suppliers that provide vehicle wheels, rims, lights, and other parts are also equipped with different types of new car and truck lights, car lighting, headlights and taillights, turn signals, fog lights and replacement lights.

Many suppliers will help you in this matter by giving you top class technical support &  assistance, along with great product offerings and clarifications that are necessary to ensure a long life and consistence performance of your vehicle and it’s mods.

Mastering Standard Transmission in Your New Car

Whether you are a new driver or an old pro, jumping behind the wheel of a new car with a standard transmission can be intimidating if you’re a first timer. All it takes is a little practice and before you know it you’ll be wanting to spin laps at the local track.

The video explains it all…Remember, practice makes perfect!

Want a personal lesson for people who know their stuff? Just swing by and have a hand behind the wheel of a GMC!

Can anyone share any tricks? How about slowing down without even touching your brake?

Road Trip Destination: Corpus Christi

Photo Courtesy of Jay Phagen/Flickr
Photo Courtesy of Jay Phagen/Flickr

The great American road trip is something that we need to get back to doing on a regular basis. There really is nothing like spending some time with the road, exploring new places and getting away for a few days. Here in Texas, we’re privileged to have a ton of great destinations all within a few hours of driving. There’s an abundance of lakes, national parks and major metropolitan areas that give you the chance to experience a world of cultures, fun and outdoor activities. This week, we’re focused in on Corpus Christi. A 7 hour drive from us here in Grapevine, but well worth the drive.

Approximately 150 miles south east of San Antonio, down Interstate 37, is any beach lover’s dream. Not only is Corpus Christi one of the premier spring break attractions, it’s also well-known for it’s year round warm weather. Being situated on the Gulf Of Mexico gives it plenty of beachfront property where you can rent a cabin, tow an RV or just camp out on the beach. For anyone who loves being on the beach, this is the place to be! Water skiing, fishing, and boating are just a few reasons to get to the bay!

Don’t discount Corpus Christi if you aren’t a beach-goer, though, there’s plenty to do when you’re in town! The bay is home to the USS Lexington, which is the oldest remaining aircraft carrier in the world! Having been a few times, it’s amazing seeing the inner-workings of those massive ships!

There’s also the Texas State Aquarium and the Corpus Christi Botanical Gardens and Nature Center which are popular attractions. If you’re a hunter, then you’ll enjoy hunting for duck, geese, dove and white-tailed deer.

Of course, you’ll want to avoid Corpus Christi around the time of Spring Break (unless you really want to) to avoid major crowds.
What do you think of Corpus Christi? Have you been?

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMERICA!

https://www.flickr.com/photos/edbierman/9214594391/in/photolist-f3gcT6-ocnPBL-ocnVGS-f3vEDJ-oefiBA-oemrUd-f3vETq-f3gq2p-f3vAWd-a1dFMN-nVzJpW-f3vycs-f3vtPU-f3vBYS-ocZ4ZE-9ZuE6W-a1angk-a1ddjE-nVrTh2-ctXt8U-cvoBmL-f3gb5z-ofYoek-f3vpzd-9ZxHQL-9ZxRnu-nWHX1e-9ZHqjZ-oe8Ptm-9ZUMo9-9ZHyqH-9ZHyde-a1wKnG-msCxkv-9ZLiN3-9ZHvna-a9b3pV-nVA7z6-9ZLjRC-nWGQMY-9ZRRM4-odChqC-o9Rnhe-ofL3Dc-9ZTyrD-g1gbeR-9ZUL7U-o9NV98-a1L1AD-9ZRUvR
Ed Bierman, Flickr Creative Commons

I love the 4th of July! You get to meet up with your friends and family, head over to the park, throw some beef on the barbie, and watch the kids spin themselves up waiting and waiting and waiting for the sun to go down so they can oooooo and ahhhhh at the fireworks. What a great holiday and what a great reason to have one. This is the 239th years since we told Ol’ King George that we just weren’t going to take it anymore, and that it was our steadfast belief that everybody was born equal, every one was born free, and we all come “with certain unalienable rights”. Do you realize how rare that concept is? 239 years ago Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin and a couple other guys wrote that concept down on paper FOR THE FIRST TIME IN MANKIND’S HISTORY. For all the previous millennia people were subjects, born owing their masters, their governments, their monarch a debt…themselves. There was no choice in the matter , you were a ruler or you were ruled.

But in the last 239 years the concept of personal freedom has been one that has been incredibly difficult to squash. Even under the most brutal of dictatorships, the idea of freedom blossoms. Adolf Hitler couldn’t kill it, Josef Stalin couldn’t kill it, Mao Tse Tung couldn’t kill it, and certainly not by more modern tyrants like North Korea’s Kim family.

America is a young country, America has certainly stumbled along the way, but more often than not the American PEOPLE have been as accepting and as willing to right the wrongs of the past as any you could hope for, it’s just a shame that the people we elect don’t do likewise with as much speed and good intent. So grab a hot dog, a beer, and a lawn chair and let’s all enjoy the FABULOUS FOURTH!

Buick, the Twin Wasp, and the B-24 Liberator

https://www.flickr.com/photos/21734563@N04/2102836633/in/photolist-4cPA52-2tJRpW-2tEtBX-ngBUGD-6qToTK-4cUYQQ-4QHXA3-4cW6Lp-tKsXok-nEnh74-iWDEsd-2ZHpoC-4cWoVE-4cWqQW-nGkvqe-4cZSty-61ihdi-61ntx7-4d1cM7-4cTsdd-4cWfGx-4cQXzP-4dencs-9qWM55-4cTFj5-8wf3ah-4dpeyf-2tEtKX-6qXewj-2xFGCu-2kdXMR-nezfWT-c6Gn4o-6rg731-u9BgXz-9u6qRq-c6GACG-c6GyU3-c6GtiY-c6Gq77-c6GoV7-7Rgt7P-3KyxMQ-u4zyqE-c6HqWu-c6Gv67-t9TAc5-svdXFt-bVwT6p-3KubW8
David Foster, Flickr Creative Commons

Not many of you may know, but Buick built over 74,000 Pratt & Whitney Twin Wasp radial engines for the Army Air Corps during WWII. These engines were air cooled, 14 cylinder (two rows of 7), and ranged between the 800 hp of the -1’s to 1350hp of the -94’s. They were called the Twin Wasp because the original Pratt & Whitney Wasp series of engines were single row radial engines, meaning that had one row of cylinders radiating from around the crankshaft.

The official name was the P&W R-1830, denoting a Radial engine of 1830 cubic inches. They were mounted to the two most produced US aircraft of the entire war: the Consolidated B-24 Liberator which mounted four Twin Wasps, and the Douglas DC-3/C-47 which mounted two. The high production numbers of those two aircraft caused the R-1830 to be the most widely produced aircraft engine in history with a total production run above 173,000!

Buick began building the engines at a government owned plant in Melrose Park, just west of Chicago, IL. The engines Buick built were exclusively for use on the B-24 Liberator heavy bomber, and comprised 43% of total 1830 production! Over 18,000 B-24’s were built during the course of the war and were flown in every theater of that conflict. The B-24 had a fairly long post-war career as well being used to haul freight, aerial mapping (pre-satellites baby!), as well as flying suppression of wildfires by the naval variant (PB4Y Privateer) all the way into 2002!

Buick’s Twin Wasp engines are STILL out there in the world 70 years later, hauling freight in the US, Central America, South America, Alaska, Africa, Asia, and anywhere  that the old DC-3 is still operating. Who wold have thought that a product built and delivered for wartime would have such a long and successful peacetime career?