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Technical

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  • How-To
    Member written articles and tips for other members to assist with vehicle maintenance and repair. You will be surprised at how easy some things are if you only knew how. Here’s where to show and tell (or ask) how to do it. Do you have a Tech write up that you want to share? Post it here, and we'll share it with the world. There are many out there who want to know how to get it done and done right the first time. This is the place to share the info.
    7 Topics
    9 Posts
    Last post by willrob View the latest post
    08 Aug 2017, 06:18
  • Engine/Exhaust (performance, management & tuning)
    Non vehicle-specific engine management and tuning tech, non vehicle-specific engine performance tech such as bolt-ons, tuning, turbo/super-charging, nitrous, radiators & cooling fans, etc. can be found in here. Discuss pros and cons of different engine/ehaust setups. Vehicle specific and in-depth technical discussions should go in the appropriate vehicle forum/sub-forum.
    1 Topics
    1 Posts
    Last post by 4N2NR View the latest post
    08 Mar 2009, 20:03
  • Drivetrain/Axles
    It’s what gets the power you produce to create the traction to move the machine you drive. Front, Rear, and All Wheel Drive non vehicle-specific drivetrain technical discussion can be found in here. Discuss pros and cons of different drivetrain setups. Vehicle specific and in-depth technical discussions should go in the appropriate vehicle forum/sub-forum.
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  • Wheels/Tires
    This is what you couple your powerplant and drivetrain to and what most people see as your locomotive means. What rims or which tire is best for any given application? Let us know your thoughts. Discuss different wheels and tire manufacturers and combinations. What rim, size, tread, etc. is better for a specific application? Here's the place to find out.
    1 Topics
    2 Posts
    Last post by willrob View the latest post
    28 Sep 2017, 04:53
  • Suspension/Brakes
    Everything related to how comfortable, or not, your ride is. What is the best way to reign in your wheeled moving mass of metal in the shortest distance? Non vehicle-specific suspension and brake tech, suspension upgrades, brake swaps, and related tips and tricks can be found in here. Discuss pros and cons of different setups. Vehicle specific and in-depth technical discussions should go in the appropriate vehicle forum/sub-forum.
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  • Exterior (body/paint/cosmetics/detailing/etc.)
    Custom paint vs. factory paint, bondo vs. metal, or is it fiberglass vs. carbon fiber? Share your tips, tricks and hints for keeping your body lines looking like they should. It's loud, sparks are flying, welders and compressors are humming, buffers are buzzing, all the while things are looking better. What are you building today? Non vehicle-specific exterior, detailing, rust repair, body work, paint, body kits, upgrades and rebuilding can be found in here. Discuss pros and cons of different techniques. Vehicle specific and in-depth technical discussions should go in the appropriate vehicle forum/sub-forum.
    1 Topics
    1 Posts
    Last post by 4N2NR View the latest post
    27 Mar 2009, 17:58
  • Interior
    Carpet, seats, fabrics, plastics, metals, anything at all you use to fabricate or decorate your interior. Share your color schemes or interior touches with us. Discuss different interior upgrades such as seats, carpets and mats combinations, What color, size, and how do I keep it clean or restore it, how can I make it fit, etc. and what is better for a specific use or application? Here's the place to find out.
    1 Topics
    1 Posts
    Last post by 4N2NR View the latest post
    27 Mar 2009, 17:52
  • Electrical/Sound/ICE
    Vehicle sound systems and in-car entertainment choices are wide and varied. What do you use and why? Perhaps you have an elusive electron wreaking havoc in your harness? What alarm system, radar detector, or other device is a must have? Here’s the place to talk about it. Audio, video, and all in-vehicle electronics and gadgets as well as non vehicle-specific electrical, lighting, gaming systems, security/alarm setups, kill switches, and other tricks to keep your ride immobilized can be found in here. Discuss pros and cons of different setups or how to troubleshoot those elusive electrons. Which speakers go with which amps?, are HIDs the same as Xenon?, how do I make my vehicle theft-proof? and many more questions are answered. Discuss what works better and lasts longer. Vehicle specific and in-depth technical discussions should go in the appropriate vehicle forum/sub-forum.
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  • Honda/Acura
    Honda's are vehicles that typically have well planned designs, offer excellent handling, and such vehicles have excellence in terms of safety implementations and fuel efficiency. Honda is a company that was established by Soichiro Honda in 1948 and at first, the company's primary focus was the manufacturing of motorbikes. Later the company would move on to manufacture high quality automobiles during the 1960s, ideal for racing, and in the 70's the U.S. saw the first imported Honda ready for American roads: the N600. Even later, Honda began the production of its extremely popular Civic and in the later 70s the Accord started production. Honda continued to expand as the Civic and the Accord became increasingly popular, and now the company creates an entire line up of vehicles including sports utility vehicles, hybrids, minivans, and trucks. The headquarters for Honda is situated in Tokyo, Japan and the company earned revenue of more than 90 billion dollars in 2006.

    The growth of the Acura luxury line throughout the world has been due to its involvement in auto car racing. The arrival of the Japanese luxury line in 1986 was the idea of Honda business executives who wanted to add a new line of sedans in the American market. Car racing experts and hobbyists who tinker with cars found this line's offerings to be the right vehicles for their needs. The competitive pricing, front wheel drive and safety measures make Acura a natural choice for the racing world. The line's mixture of sportiness and luxury has been put to the test at the grueling 24 Hours of Daytona in Florida. Racers with the International Motor Sports Association GT series have used coupes to compete against the best in the world. This subsidiary of Honda has stuck to their traditional V6 engine and added aerodynamic vehicle bodies to increase fuel efficiency while maintaining their reputation for luxury.
    5 Topics
    5 Posts
    Last post by 4N2NR View the latest post
    09 Feb 2010, 20:39
  • Mitsubishi
    Mitsubishi Motors is part of a larger Japanese conglomerate of corporations in a wide variety of fields, and has been involved in automotive manufacture since it produced the first series manufactured automobile in Japan in 1917. It is now the fifth largest Japanese automotive manufacturer and the thirteenth largest worldwide. While Mitsubishi has struggled with manufacturing problems and financial issues in the fairly recent past, it has a long history of developing profitable alliances with other automotive manufacturers around the world, including Chrysler, Volvo and Hyundai. Today, a variety of models, including a sports car, a sedan, a crossover SUV (or XUV) and a SUV are in the product lineup. These include the Eclipse, the Galant, the Outlander and the Endeavor. The trademark Mitsubishi emblem consists of three red diamonds, and predates the automotive division of the company by nearly a century after being chosen by the original founder of the Japanese conglomerate.
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  • Subaru
    A Japanese car company from the automotive division of Fuji Heavy Industries Company Limited, Subaru is unlike other car companies - it is not named after its founder. Instead, Subaru is named after a Japanese word that means unite, as well as for the Pleiades (the Seven Sisters) group of stars, which shows six stars to the naked eye, with one being much brighter. The Subaru logo is exactly that, five small stars with one larger star, which lends itself to the formation of Fuji Heavy Industries. Before the Second World War, Fuji Heavy Industries was known as Nakajima Aircraft. When the war was over, the company split into 15 companies. In the 50s, five of the original companies combined as a transportation company - Fuji Heavy Industries. They adopted the Pleiades star sign as their logo as a symbol of their convergence. Subaru vehicles are known for high performance and for the turbocharged cars.
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  • Mazda
    Mazda, a Japanese based automobile company was founded originally in 1920 as a machine tool manufacturer. The changeover to cars began in 1931 and has been the main product except during the WWII. After the war the car was again the product and the company began a career of success and also hard times. Some of the difficulties were resolved when Ford motor company became a significant player within the management of the company. When Ford became the controlling stockholder the company began a long climb to a place of prosperity. After a start and fall back period for the company, the climb came to fruition in 2006 when the sales were 1.25 million cars world wide. The automobile business is a fickle business with a specific car popular for one or two years and then losing its popularity. Mazda has had more than its share of the rise and fall of popularity.
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  • Nissan/Infinity/Datsun
    Nissan is the third largest Japanese automotive manufacturer and a significant rival to major American car manufacturers. The company began as Datsun in 1914, and first claimed its current name in 1932, as a manufacturer of trucks, engines and planes for the Japanese military. Under the name Datsun, the company offered small, fuel efficient affordable cars to many markets, including the United States, from the 1950's onward. Successful alliances with Austin Motors, Prince Motors, and today, Renault Motors have aided the growth and development of this major automotive power. After a downturn in business, Nissan is growing and thriving currently, producing both the standard line of cars, trucks, and SUVs as well as the powerful and luxurious Infiniti line. With a wide range of offerings, the newly allied company has mechanically sound, well made and fuel efficient vehicles available in a varied price range, meeting consumer demands for both style and function.

    The Infiniti range of luxury cars and sport utility vehicles (SUV) were introduced in the United States by Nissan in 1989 to rival other Japanese brand presence in the United States. The brand's Q45 sedan proved popular with its four-wheel steer and an active suspension system, a first in an automobile. In 1997, Infiniti unveiled a luxurious mid-size SUV with off-road ability, the first non-SUV specialist brand to do so. After this, financial woes beset Nissan, which saw a drop in sales of Infiniti vehicles. Switching its efforts to building a range of impressive luxury automobiles, Infiniti rolled out the G35 entry-level luxury car/compact executive car to increased sales in 2003. Infiniti's current range includes compact executive two-door coupes/four-door sedans with four-wheel steering; mid-size luxury/executive cars; mid-size luxury crossover SUVs, and full-size luxury SUVs, all of which have a logo that draws inspiration from Mount Fuji in Japan. Nissan's current headquarters is in Tokyo, Japan.
    2 Topics
    2 Posts
    Last post by 4N2NR View the latest post
    07 Mar 2010, 09:04
  • Suzuki
    Multinational Japanese car manufacturer Suzuki has 15 automotive manufacturing plants in 14 countries. Offering a wide variety of vehicles, especially Keicars and small SUVs, Suzuki's montage of vehicles extends beyond into motorcycles, ATVs and more. The Suzuki Loom Company was founded in 1909 by Michio Suzuki, which built silk weaving looms for the booming industry in Japan. With 120 patents and model rights for his looms, Suzuki began to look for ways to expand his company. In 1937, nearly 30 years after his first business was born, he began to make innovative prototype small vehicles. Everything ground to a halt during the Second World War, but after the war was over, Suzuki began experimenting again. He created the Power Free - a motorized bicycle. With that, the Suzuki Motor Corporation was born. Today, Suzuki vehicles can be seen everywhere, primarily SUVs and motorcycles with many small, efficient cars in the mix as well.
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  • Toyota/Lexus/Scion
    The Toyota Motor Corporation is the largest automaker by sales revenue in the world. The Toyota Motor Corporation has a half-owned subsidiary company, Daihatsu, and is both a part of the Toyota Group, of which Lexus and Scion auto manufacturers are also a part. The Toyota Group contains 522 subsidiary companies. Toyota was founded by Kiichiro Toyoda in 1937 as a spin off from his father's textile company. The new company that Kiichiro created aimed at making automobiles. The first Type A engine from Toyota was created in 1934 and the first passenger car in 1935, before the company went on its own. The company is headquartered in Toyota, Aichi, Japan. Toyota is primarily known for its vehicles, it also creates robots and still makes looms as the original company did. Toyota leads the way in the automotive industry, surpassing General Motors in sales figures.

    In 1983, Eiji Toyoda posed this question to his top executives, "Could we manufacture a car to challenge the world's best luxury model?" The company wanted to develop a luxury car to expand their product line in an upscale market. After an extensive development process, which included designers, engineers, technicians, prototypes, and over a billion dollars in cost, the Lexus was introduced in 1989 in the U.S. The first model manufactured had a 4.0-liter engine with rear wheel drive. The company now offers a variety of compact/mid-size sedans, convertibles, SUV's, and hybrids. All vehicles must pass an "IDEAL" philosophy that stands for Impressive, Dynamic, Elegant, Advanced, and Lasting, a series of stringent quality control tests before they are released. Known for its ergonomic interiors, aerodynamics, fuel economy, and value, it quickly achieved the status of top selling luxury import in the U.S. Available now in over 40 countries, Lexus continues to rank high in dealership service, customer satisfaction, and reliability surveys worldwide.

    Scion is a relatively new brand of car, dating back to only 2003 as Toyota worked to bring newer, younger buyers to the Toyota brand. The vehicles began their rollout in California, then to the South and toward the east coast, becoming nationally available in 2004, coinciding with the release of the 2005 models of cars. Scion cars, like Saturn's are sold at list price, known as "pure price" to this particular manufacturer. The stated price is intended to shrink negotiation time for the impatient members of Generation Y, and to bring down the hassle and negotiation aspects of car buying to make the process more accessible to younger people. Another successful marketing strategy of the Scion involves limited edition cars with full options and accessories in often loud or bright hues to attract youngsters.
    1 Topics
    1 Posts
    Last post by 4N2NR View the latest post
    31 Jan 2010, 11:31
  • Isuzu
    The Isuzu story began in 1918 when Tokyo Ishikawajima Shipbuilding & Engineering Company (TISEC) produced the first Japanese truck with Tokyo Gas & Electric Industrial Company. TISEC experienced several mergers and divestitures before establishing itself as Isuzu Motors Limited in 1949 and making a name as a major heavy-duty trucks manufacturer. In 1959, it produced the world's first two-ton light-duty forward-control truck. In 1971, Isuzu inked an agreement with General Motors Corporation to jointly manufacture vehicles in the United States, before establishing American Isuzu Motors Inc. (AIMI) in 1980. AIMI began selling Isuzu vehicles in the United States from 1981 and in 1992 became the first import manufacturer of vehicles in the mini, compact and full-size segments on the expanding sport utility market. In 2004, AIMI merged with Isuzu Motors America Inc., becoming the United States distributor of Isuzu light vehicles and diesel engines. With its headquarters in Tokyo, Japan, Isuzu's range includes small to medium compact automobiles, and medium to large duty commercial trucks.
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  • Other Japanese Makes
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  • Audi/Porsche/Volkswagen
    The Audi brand of luxury cars and sporty SUVs may seem to be rooted in the European auto tradition of power with style. This German auto maker has much humbler roots that demonstrate why their engineers and dealers are committed to getting drivers into the cars on a daily basis. Beginning in 1899 with rudimentary designs by August Horch, the Audi idea was used to spawn Germany's first automobiles. The idea was housed within the German manufacturing giant Auto Union until the postwar period when it was sold to Volkswagen. The common misconception about the German automaker is that their vehicles have always been conservative. The new models and sales figures do not bear this concept out. The new lines for this popular European car company include sleek SUVs and stylish sedans that possess a computerized control system to help drivers stay safe on the road. The company's expansion into the African and Middle Eastern markets has allowed it to grow rapidly in the 21st century.

    The Porsche AG or simply Porsche manufacturing company was founded in 1931 by Ferdinand Porsche, who was the same engineer that created the first Volkswagen. Today, Porsche is a top auto manufacturer with a name that is synonymous with luxury and class. In fact, a survey by Luxury Institute in New York awarded Porsche the number one most prestigious automobile brand in May 2006. Porsche (pronounced PORSH-uh) goes right for the top of the luxury line with sports cars being their primary product. They are considering branching out into a luxury sedan, but will continue to cater to high end customers with their high quality automobiles and incredible luxury. The Porsche Company is known for retaining financial stability in changing market conditions, and with their focus on incredible autos, will likely continue to do so for years to come.

    Volkswagen is based in Wolfsberg, Germany and is listed as the fourth largest vehicle manufacturer in the world after Toyota, GM and Ford respectively. Volkswagen means 'people's car' in German and the company tagline is 'for the love of the car'. The car company got its start when Adolf Hitler requested Ferdinand Porsche to change the 1931 design of his vehicle for the working class people. Porsche together with Hans Ledwinka made the Kdf-wagen born in 1938, which would later become known as the Beetle. The Beetle, VW's most prominent and well known car created a cult following over the decades and is back after a hiatus with a stylish new look. Volkswagen produces a few different types of vehicles, however most notably are their small and midsized cars. However, the market has extended to include vans, minivans and SUVs.
    2 Topics
    2 Posts
    Last post by 4N2NR View the latest post
    07 Mar 2009, 11:24
  • Saab
    For a really streamlined design, the ideal auto manufacturer is a company with experience in designing machines with incredible drag coefficients. This is what Saab delivers, with car manufacture arriving after years of successful military aircraft manufacture. The first Saab automobile, the Saab 92, was created in 1937 as an effort to produce a new source of income once World War II ended and the need for Swedish military aircraft would begin to decline. This first model featured a two cylinder, two stroke engine and an incredibly streamlined design, and was the first of a new line of cars created by the Saab aircraft manufacturers. The company remained independent until 1990, when 50% of the automobile division of Saab was acquired by GM with the option to buy the other 50% in a decade. In 1995, Saab became profitable again for the first time since 1988, and in 2000, GM acquired the rest of the company.
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  • BMW
    The BMW name has been associated with craftsmanship and utility for nearly a century. Founder Karl Rapp began the company in 1917 to help create aircraft engines for the German military during World War I. Many European auto companies began in a similar way but Rapp's vision was larger than working for his country's government. His team of engineers developed the company's first motorcycle in 1924 and the next three decades saw the brand name grow into a force in the European auto market. The diversity of BMW cars and specialty vehicles was born out of the adversity of creating products in a war ravaged area. The company's SUVs utilize a powerful V12 engine and possess a body constructed with safety in mind. The intense focus of the brand's engineers and mechanics has allowed its line of luxury sedans and coupes to take new markets by storm. The high popularity of the company's vehicles in the United States and Western Europe has led to the term "beemer" becoming a part of each region's vocabulary.
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  • Mercedes
    Daimler Benz was originally started in June of 1926. The company was a merger of Daimler and Benz. The two men were credited with the invention of the automobile. Benz is given the bigger credit, as he not only had an engine in his vehicle but a unique chassis for it to be mounted upon. Daimler's vehicle was an engine mounted to a carriage. With this merger of these two inventors; they began to market the Mercedes Benz. Mercedes Benz has been a respected name in the automobile industry since its inception. Karl Benz was credited with designing a true automobile with a chassis and an internal combustion engine. Since that early beginning the Mercedes Benz has been known for quality and reliability. Their reputation for both racing cars and road cars has a proud history. Their other vehicles like trucks and buses have also been noted for their quality. Many of the Mercedes Benz dealerships arose from the deal they had with Studebaker in the United States. When Studebaker ceased operations in the United States their dealers were offered the opportunity to become Mercedes Benz dealers.
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  • Lamborghini
    From its founding in 1963 by the owner of the same name, Lamborghini has always represented quality in design, speed, and performance. Ownership changed hands several times after being sold by the original owner, but since 1998 the company has come under the Audi group of automobiles. These powerful sports cars are put together piece by piece in the factory at Sant 'Agata. Italian craftsmanship and German precision efficiency combine to manufacture vehicles with the superior power of V10 engines and the capability of delivering over 500 horsepower for the driver. To some extent, assembly line production has been modified, shortening the time spent at each station. There are more stations and more workers at each station, as well, which means less time is involved for each stage in the manufacture of the newest models. However, details and quality are not sacrificed by Lamborghini, and many components are still hand finished. New designs and modern technology only enhance the legendary eye-catching appeal and popular demand for these remarkable super cars.
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  • Ferrari
    Ferrari was a company first established by Enzo Ferrari in the year 1929 under the name Scuderia Ferrari. Before he established his own auto company, Enzo worked for Alfa Romeo during the 20s. As Scuderia Ferrari, the company was one that focused on the manufacturing of racecars. Later, in the year 1947, the company shifted its primary focus from the establishment of racecars to vehicles that could be used on the road. Ferrari soon became the manufacturer of prestigious vehicles, and while the company still partakes in racing endeavors, the wealthy and elite covets the models produced by Ferrari. The year 1947 saw the first road legal Ferrari. In the 50's and 60's, Ferrari manufactured vehicles under the design house known as Pininfarina and made popular vehicles like the 250 GT and 275 GTB. Later years saw the emergence of vehicles like the 308 GTS, the Testarossa, and the 550 Maranello. In the late 60's, Scuderia Ferrari was sold to Fiat, but it still maintains a headquarters in Maranello, Italy, even after the company became a subsidiary of the Fiat Group. The Fiat Group now retains eighty-five percent control of the Ferrari Company.
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  • Aston Martin
    One of the ways you can tell the high quality and production values of an Aston Martin is its presence in popular culture. The British auto maker has been in business for nearly a century and their origins as Bamford and Martin in 1913 means that the current line was born out of a commitment to tradition. The V6 and V8 engines, aerodynamic body and high level of customization mean that any offering by this company is perfect for movie stars and celebrities. The presence of Aston Martin cars in the media goes back to their use in the French Grand Prix of the 1920s. The maker's products were used in all of the James Bond films featuring Sean Connery in the 1960s and Timothy Dalton in the 1980s. This vehicle line has also been featured as the vehicle of choice for Hugh Laurie's Bertie Wooster in Jeeves and Wooster as well as part of the mayhem in The Italian Job.
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  • Bently
    There are few auto makers with the lineage and historical importance of Bentley. The company started in January 1919 by Walter Owen Bentley as a manufacturer of engines and parts for British aircraft during World War I. While the beginnings of this brand are typical, its development has been quite unique. Popularity for the auto maker's cars was increased throughout the 1920s due to a legendary race from Cannes to London while driving one of the early sporting models.The Bentley brand name has been used by auto luminaries like Rolls Royce and Volkswagen to add higher class offerings to their dealerships. Rolls Royce owned the brand's line of luxury sedans for nearly 60 years in an effort to add an affordable option for customers who wanted a high quality vehicle. The Volkswagen Group purchased the brand in 1998 to bring the class, style and high performance of the company's V8 and V12 engines in their inventory.
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  • Jaguar
    The sleek, powerful and fast Jaguar cars were first manufactured in 1935 by SS Cars Ltd, which was founded in 1922 in the United Kingdom. The company became Jaguar Cars Ltd in 1945, then British Motor Holdings in 1966 after joining with British Motor Corporation, before becoming British Leyland Motor Corporation (BLMC) after merging with Leyland and Rover in 1968. In 1975, BLMC had financial troubles and faced nationalization. It became BL Ltd, only to float Jaguar Cars Ltd in 1984 as an independent business on the stock market. Purchased by Ford Motor Company in September 1989, Jaguar Cars Ltd became part of Ford's Premier Automotive Group. Currently, Jaguar cars are manufactured at Castle Bromwich, Birmingham and Halewood, Liverpool but its headquarters are at Coventry in the West Midlands. The hood of Jaguar luxury coupes, convertibles and sedans all bear the distinguishing silver jaguar insignia, and the cars all possess Royal Warrants from both HM Queen Elizabeth II and HRH Prince Charles.
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    Last post by 4N2NR View the latest post
    07 Mar 2009, 12:34
  • Land Rover
    The legendary Land Rover is British made and has a long-standing reputation for sturdy, reliable service. Since it was first manufactured in 1944 as an all-terrain vehicle, it has been in use by the British military for many years. It is one of the most highly advanced off the road vehicles made today, able to meet any driving challenge in any type of weather. Its modern technology features a terrain response dial that immediately adapts to road conditions, whether it's across sand dunes, frozen rivers, on safari in the jungle, or climbing mountains. Some of the latest models are being built at the Halewood factory in Liverpool, where quality is ensured. Land Rover even offers extensive training courses with qualified instructors at experience centers in the U.S., the UK, and in other countries around the world. This remarkable vehicle is considered the safest vehicle on the roads in the UK today, consistently maintaining a better safety record than its closest competitors.
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  • Lotus
    In 1952, a company was formed in England named Lotus Engineering Ltd. A 24-year-old engineering superstar started it by the name of Colin Chapman. He ran the company for 30 years until his death from a heart attack in 1982. During his tenure, the Lotus reputation for outstanding suspensions and lightweight super handling racing cars and production cars was built. The company is located at a former RAF base in Hethel. It has modern facilities and a test track, which uses some of the old runways from the base. The Lotus name became famous from its association with Formula One racing. They have won the Formula One World Championship seven times. After 1986 the company was bought and sold several times. The new owners included General Motors for a time as well as some other prominent automakers. While in the GM family Lotus was involved in developing a 4-cylinder engine which was used in some of the GM cars. According to the new management there are no plans to return to Formula One racing.
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  • Maserati
    Over 100 years ago the Italian company Maserati, the manufacturer of racing and sports cars was started in 1914 in Bologna, Italy. A family of six brothers started this company. Three of the brothers were builders of Grand Prix cars for Diatto until this company stop making racing. Maserati's long association with racing and its ability to build winning cars has earned a very good reputation as a car builder. Maserati won the Indianapolis 500 in both 1940 and 1941. After 1957 Maserati still built racing cars for others, but concentrated in building road cars that competed with cars at the high end of the market. Meanwhile the company has been bought and sold several times. It has been owned by both Citroen and Fiat, and then owned by Ferrari and then repurchased by Fiat. In early 2002 Maserati began again selling its high-end models in the United States. It has also re-entered the racing scene.
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  • Maybach
    Maybach one of the original suppliers to Zeppelin of diesel and gas engines is today selling the custom made Maybach in association with Mercedes Benz. These very high-end cars are designed with the back seat rider in mind as far as comfort is concerned. Wilhelm Maybach and his son Karl Maybach started Maybach in 1909. After 1918 they became the maker of classic cars that were custom made for the buyer. This continued to 1940. They also built large diesel engines for marine and railway clients. During the war they built tank and boat engines for the Wehrmacht. After the war the market for luxury cars was non-existent so they survived by building engines for the French. Move forward in time and the Maybach name came back to life in an association with Mercedes Benz and again started making custom cars. After the early 2000s the new opulent Maybach was again being sold in the United States. This car is marketed in direct competition with the Rolls Royce.
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  • Mini
    The BMW MINI has retro flair, the feel of the 1960's iconic car, and modern technology in a small, city-perfect package. This model began as a product of the British Motor Company, and was manufactured from 1959 to 2000. Today, capital letters distinguish the BMC versions and the BMW versions of the classic design. This small and practical vehicle began with the goal of creating a petite, fuel saving and affordable car, and today is still a popular choice for those looking for a fun to drive and playful urban vehicle. The Mini has appeared in multiple versions over the years, from a small pickup truck to a family vehicle to a sportier model with a more powerful engine. Today's versions include powerful engines, modern safety features, current technology, and even a convertible model on a slightly larger base than the original. Retro styling, trim and details remain a feature of this flashback to the past.
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  • Rolls Royce
    The recent history of the Rolls-Royce Company has grown much more confusing since the company was founded by partners in 1906. The British automaker and aero-engine manufacturer split in 1973, with the auto making portion of the business gaining the name Rolls-Royce Motors. The company was acquired by Vickers seven years later, and in 1998 was sold again to Volkswagen, which was actually after the Rolls-Royce owned Bentley. The aero-engine manufacturer, Rolls-Royce plc, licensed the Rolls-Royce name and logo to BMW instead of Volkswagen. This meant that Volkswagen had the rights to the Rolls-Royce mascot and the radiator grille design, but that BMW had the rights to the name. Later in 1998, a solution was finally reached that allowed Volkswagen to continue to produce the Rolls-Royce cars under the licensed name until 2002, at which time BMW would take over the Rolls-Royce, leaving Bentley for Volkswagen.
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  • Smart
    The original Smart car, which is short for Swatch Mercedes ART, was based on the idea of a vehicle capable of fitting length-wise in a parking space. The goal of this new automobile design was to make parking easier within Europe?s narrow parking slots. Swatch originally approached Volkswagen with the concept but the partnership never reached fruition. They ended up teaming up with Daimler-Benz, owner of Mercedes-Benz, in a joint venture. The result in 1994 was a new company called Micro Compact AG to manufacture the microcars. Later, the name Micro was changed to Smart GmbH. Before its separation Swatch DaimlerChrysler formed as a partnership between American automaker Chrysler and Daimler-Benz and announced that it would sell the smart car in the US beginning in 2008 through the Penske Automotive Group. Smart USA received over 30,000 in preorders before the subcompact car went on sale in January 2008, selling out its inventory for the year.
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    Last post by 4N2NR View the latest post
    09 Apr 2009, 04:35
  • Volvo
    The Swedish Volvo manufacturer trucks, buses, construction equipment, marine and industrial drive applications, aerospace components and financial services to this day. The company was founded officially on April 14, 1927 in Gothenburg. The company name means ?I Roll? in Latin and the company name was officially registered in 1911. The automobile creating offshoot company of the Volvo Group didn?t show any activity until August 10, 1926 after preparing 10 vehicle prototypes for release. The first Volvo Series, the OV4, left the factory line on April 14, 1927, which was cumulated as the official founding date of the company. The first Volvo truck came off the production line in January 1928, and then exported to Europe for the first time in the early 30s. The first bus was launched in 1934, and then aircraft engines were added to the product line in the early 40s. In 1998, Volvo Group sold the business end to Ford and focuses on commercial vehicles, however a variety of smaller vehicles are still produced for sale.
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  • Fiat
    Fiat has held a leading role in the automotive industry since its conception, which occurred at the dawn of the Italian industrialization era. From the moment it first appeared on the market, Fiat has been extensively developed and is recognized worldwide. Its logo is a great status symbol because of the superior cars the Company produces and the prestige of its history and tradition. The charter of Societa Anonima Fabbrica Italiana Automobili Torino was signed on July 11, 1899. Giovanni Agnelli was on the Board of Directors. He was determined Fiat would be highly successful and had great strategic vision. He became Managing Director of Fiat in 1902. Fiat experienced a growth of production in the mid 1960s, as well as a growth in exports. The grandson of founder Giovanni Agnelli, Gianni Agnelli, and his namesake, became President of Fiat in 1966. He ensured the Company followed a trend toward increased automation in the production process. This helped Fiat continue on the path of technological innovation while coping with the global oil crisis. 2007 saw the Fiat 500 have stiffer suspension, wider fenders and a 150 hp turbo 4-cylinder engine that will run from zero to 60 in eight seconds. Fiat continues on the path of innovation and superior technology into the 21st century.
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  • Citroën
    The interesting and colourful history of Citroën automobiles began. In 1934, Citroën presented their first front-wheel drive cars and started a revolution in auto production. André Citroën was born in 1878. A successful student, he attended the Polytechnical school in Paris and worked for some time with the car company "Mors". In 1905, at the age of 27, he founded his first company, "André Citroën & Cie", which was changed to "Société des Engrenages Citroën" (Citroën Cog Factory ) in 1913. From the beginning of 1932, the C4 and C6 were equipped with the "Floating Power" engine which was mounted in a new way, using a Chrysler patent. The engine was secured with rubber mounts instead of being bolted directly to the chassis, thereby eliminating major engine vibrations. The first cars using this new engine mounting were recognizeable with a stylized swan in front of the Citroën double chevrons. During the Paris Car Show of 1948 the 2CV was introduced. Smiled at by all, this comfortable small car of 375 cubic cm started a long life around the world. In 1955, we start to see the end of the Traction Avant. "La Déesse" , "The Goddess", was presented and the automobile world was once more astonished by Citroën. "This is not the car of tomorrow, it's the car of today. It's just that all the other cars are from yesterday..." was one of the publicity slogans. Indeed, it was and continues to be an unusual streamlined car - with front-wheel drive, height adjustable hydraulic suspension, power steering, semi-automatic gear box, one spoke safety steering wheel, and much more. It took up to 25 July 1957 until the last of the famous Tractions, an 11CV Familiale, rolled off the production line. Today, the owners and friends of the Traction Avant are united in classic car clubs all over the world. Spare parts are reproduced, meetings are held. In Switzerland there must be about 1000 of the varying Traction Avant versions left.
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  • Other European Makes
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    Last post by Arnkatla View the latest post
    06 Jan 2022, 15:04
  • Ford
    Ford is a company in the automotive industry that was first founded in June of 1903 by Henry Ford. The Ford Company has its headquarters based in Dearborn, Michigan and currently offers its vehicles on a worldwide level. Currently, the Ford Motor Company has a number of subsidiaries and it serves as a parent company for, Automotive Components Holdings, Jaguar, Land Rover, and Volvo. The Ford Company also retains a number of different divisions including the Ford Credit division, the Ford division, the Lincoln division, the Mercury division and the Premier Automotive Group. A company that began with as little as 28 thousand dollars in 1903, now generates an income that is easily in the billions. The company has proven so successful that they have been identified as one of the major three automobile manufacturers in the world today. Famous Fords include the Model A, the Model T, and the Ford Thunderbird. Today, Ford continues to manufacture both cars and trucks. Recently, Ford has added several hybrids to the list as the company looks for ways to manufacture vehicles that offer safer environmental alternatives.
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    Last post by 4N2NR View the latest post
    07 Mar 2009, 12:27
  • General Motors
    GMC, the General Motors Corporation, also understood as the GM Corporation has a total of thirty manufacturing facilities in the United States alone. In addition to the manufacturing facilities in the U.S., GMC has an additional thirty-three companies in 33 different countries around the world today. The company was built in 1908 and has grown to such an extent that it now employs more than 284,000 individuals around the world. GMC has its headquarters in the Renaissance Center in Detroit, Michigan and manufactures an incredible assortment of trucks and cars. A year after the GMC company was formed it was merged with the Grabowsky Rapid Motor Vehicle Company. Later, in 1912 GMC trucks were presented to the automobile industry and GMC trucks remain popular trucks today. The current lineup of GMC trucks include the Sierra, the Acadia, the Yukon, and the Envoy. GMC also puts its label on sports utility vehicles and it is the second biggest selling vehicle division after Chevy.
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    Last post by 4N2NR View the latest post
    02 Mar 2010, 19:33
  • Chrysler
    The Chrysler Pentastar makes Chrysler vehicles easily identifiable. A five-pointed star within a pentagon, the Pentastar that Chrysler uses to mark its vehicles has a unique and interesting history. The Pentastar was used by Chrysler in its early beginnings and revived in the early '60's. Later, all other signs associated with Chrysler fell out of favor and Chrysler began marking all of its cars with the Pentastar symbol once more. A commonly held, false notion is that the Pentastar actually signifies the five corporate divisions of Chrysler, but this is not the case. Rather, the Pentastar was selected for its easy recognition and universal application. Now, the Pentastar has once again evolved with the merging of Chrysler and its new parent company, Daimler-Benz. The Pentastar has been redesigned as it is found inside silver wings - a symbol that undoubtedly suggests that the merging of the two companies will lead to new heights for both Chrysler and Daimler-Benz.
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    Last post by 4N2NR View the latest post
    07 Mar 2009, 12:22
  • Buick
    Buick is a brand of vehicle that is certainly viewed as an American automobile manufacturer, but in truth, Buick is manufactured in a number of different regions throughout the world. Buicks are made in Canada as well as the United States, and various countries in Europe either manufacture Buicks or import Buicks into the country. In fact, in China, Buick is a common vehicle and Buicks have actually been sold in China since the early 1900s.Buick continues to remain an incredibly popular manufacturer - as one of the oldest car manufacturers Buick has proven its longevity in the automobile industry. Buick has been in business for nearly 100 years, and has continued to thrive since the creation of the company by David Dunbar, a Scottish immigrant and the inventor of the overhead-valve design. Today, Buick manufactures Sedans, SUVs, minivans, and trucks, all which maintain the Buick demand for quality.
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  • Cadillac
    Cadillac automotive manufacturers are responsible for many innovations in the automobile industry. Cadillac was the very first manufacturer to establish the mass production of automobiles possessing a V-8 engine configuration. Cadillac cars were also the first automobiles to be produced with automatic starters; no longer relying on a hand crank, Cadillac manufactured cars that relied on the electric starter invented by Charles Kettering in the early 1900s. Meanwhile, Cadillac manufactured fully enclosed vehicles and was the first car manufacturer to do so in 1914. In the late '20s, Cadillac established the very first manual transmission complete with synchronizers and thereby massively improved the Cadillac's drivability. In addition, in the 40s, after meeting with Henry F. Phillips, Cadillac began to rely on the use of the Phillips screw to increase the efficiency and speed of their car-manufacturing production line: again, Cadillac remained the first in the automotive industry to do so.
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  • Chevrolet
    William C. Durant left the General Motors Corp. (GM), in the early 1900's and began working with Louis Chevrolet in an effort to establish the Chevrolet Motor Car Company. The company made its first automobile offering as early as 1912, and in 1914 Chevrolet's were manufactured with the bowtie appearing logo - Durant's design based on a wallpaper print in one of Paris's hotels. In 1918, the Chevy Motor Car Company proved quite successful, and Durant bought shares in GM; the Chevy Motor Corporation then became a subsidiary of GM and maintained incredible success into the 1920s. By the late '20s, Chevrolet Motor Corp. was selling more vehicles than its major competitors: and in 1934 the company introduced the concept of independent suspensions. In the early fifties, the public saw the emergence of Chevrolet's famous Corvette; in the sixties the Camaro was introduced; and the '70s saw the introduction of cars like the Chevy Malibu and Caprice. By the eighties, the Chevy Corporation was manufacturing trucks and sports utility vehicles, and the company still manufactures a variety of automobiles, SUVs, and trucks today.
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  • Dodge
    Dodge was originally founded in 1914. Dodge manufactures both automobiles and trucks and produces European and American cars, it has also previously manufactured Military vehicles used during WWI. Formerly known as the Dodge Brothers Motor Vehicle Company, the company was purchased by Chrysler in 1928: later merging with Daimler-Benz in 1998 to become DaimChrysler. The current Dodge Headquarters is located in Auburn Hills, Michigan. The corporation saw a drop in sales during the 70's but later saw a revival in sales during the 80s with the successful creation of several economy cars. Dodge's best success can be found in the manufacturing of the Caravan first created in 1984. Currently, Dodge is revered most for its trucks, which actually constitute almost 80 percent of sales annually. Dodge manufactures mid-price vehicles, muscle vehicles, performance cars, Pickups, sports cars, SUVs, vans, coupes, and sedans.
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    Last post by 4N2NR View the latest post
    07 Mar 2009, 12:23
  • Hummer
    Hummer is a division of the General Motors Corporation and was first established in 1995. Hummer relies on the slogan, "Like nothing else" and indeed these vehicles are utterly unique: the Hummer is actually a vehicle that has its design derived from the Humvee, also known as the High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle. At one time the Hummer was created by AM General Corporation and the first Hummers were introduced in Europe. In the early 90's the SUV was later marketed as a Hummer and General Motors purchased the brand rights in 1998. The Hummer lineup first started with the H lineup and began with the H1; a vehicle that's purpose was for off road driving. Later the H2 and H3 soon followed. The H3 offers amazing off-road capabilities as well as on road driving and smooth handling; the latter vehicle is considered an midsized vehicle, one that offers 20 miles per gallon in terms of fuel efficiency.
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  • Jeep
    The Jeep trademark was first owned by Willys-Overland, when the company shared with Ford Motor Company the manufacturing of the GPW (G - governmental, P - wheel base type, W - Willys-Overland) inspection vehicle for the United States Army in 1941. The company was purchased by Kaiser in 1953, which changed its name to Kaiser-Jeep a year later. In 1970, American Motors (AMC) bought Kaiser-Jeep and in 1979, began receiving investment from French automobile manufacturer Renault. Hit by financial troubles in 1987, Renault was sold to Chrysler Corporation, which merged with Diamler-Benz in 1988. The DiamlerChrysler Company LLC currently owns the trademark for Jeep' and the vehicle's distinguishing seven-slot front grille design. The Jeep' headquarters is currently based in Toledo, Ohio in U.S.A., and is known for producing sturdy yet stylish four-wheel steering Sport Utility Vehicles (SUV), which are easy to maneuver and meet the requirements of the adventure seeker as well as a family unit.
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    Last post by 4N2NR View the latest post
    07 Mar 2009, 12:37
  • Lincoln
    For nearly a century, the name Lincoln has been synonymous with luxury, comfort, and design. Founded in 1917 by Henry M. Leland and later acquired by Ford Motor Company in 1922, the company offers an extensive line of vehicles to include luxury sedans, pickups, and SUV's. In the 1920's many famous people in America such as Herbert Hoover, W.C. Fields, and Thomas Edison drove these luxury automobiles. The manufacturer had reached premium luxury status by 1930 because of its unique styling, quality, and value. All vehicles are backed by a 6- year/ 70,000 mile limited power-train warranty, providing piece of mind to all their buyers. Recently, the company has expanded its lineup by adding pickup trucks and sport sedans to attract a new generation of consumers. In the fall of 2007, Lincoln will be introducing "Sync" (powered by Microsoft), a voice activated, hands free communications and entertainment system.
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  • Mercury
    Mercury has released vehicles under the Ford platform since 1939, typically filling a near-luxury class in between the economy line Ford vehicles and the luxury Lincoln vehicles. While models produced in the 1950's and 1960's stretched and lowered the Ford style of vehicles, creating unique and interesting cars, more recently many models have been slightly higher end versions of Ford's designs. Sales and production of Mercury vehicles peaked in 1978 and again in 1993, but today approximately 200,000 vehicles are produced each year in this line. The line today is characterized by luxury, comfort, and an array of models. 2008 models include the Mariner, Montegro, Monterey, Milan, Mountaineer and Grand Marquis, as well as a re-release of the successful Sable. An eco-friendly hybrid version of the Mariner is even available. Styling and branding today includes a distinctive waterfall style front grille, block lettering, and a new advertising campaign focused on women.
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  • Pontiac
    Pontiac automobiles, including sedans, sports cars, SUVs and crossover SUVs currently, are produced by General Motors, and have been since 1926. This mid-range automotive line is stylish and sporty, emphasizing performance. Advertising typically targets a younger demographic, and sportier body styles are featured. Engine performance has been an important feature of this product line since the beginning, with the earliest models offering an affordable 6-cylinder engine option. From 1926 to 1956, the company used a Native American head as a logo, but that was replaced by the red arrowhead design still used today. The Pontiac GTO is one of the most notable parts of the history of this branch of General Motors. This car blended race car and drag car components, and began the 1960's muscle car era. In 1968, the GTO was voted car of the year. Also responsible for introducing the sports coupe to the market, this automotive line has a long history of combining performance and style in an affordable package for the public.
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  • Saturn
    Saturn Corporation is a subsidiary of General Motors, and was established in 1985 during a time when Japanese car manufacturers were becoming a big deal in the United States. This brand was supposed to compete with the new Japanese cars in the American and Canadian markets, and was structured similarly to Japanese auto manufacturers, with laborers allowed more control of the plant. The first Saturn was manufactured in 1990, with a distribution network that was created from scratch for the division and an emphasis on customer service. This division was focused on creating a no-hassle, customer friendly environment with retailers instead of dealers and professional, friendly staff. Vehicles are sold at list price, and customer satisfaction is very high with this mid-priced brand of automobile.
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  • Other American Makes
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  • Korean
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  • Hyundai
    Established in 1967 in South Korea, Hyundai Motor Company (HMC) made its first car model in 1968, with assistance from Ford Motor Company, before releasing its first Korean car in 1975. The company established Hyundai Motor America (HMA) in 1986 and placed one model on the American market. The car's affordability meant fast sales but with its poor quality, sales declined over the next two years. In 1988, HMC started funding continuing research in to its vehicles' quality, design and production. This reflects the company's modernity, which is the meaning of 'hyundai' in Korean. HMC reported US$57.2 billion worth in South Korean sales in 2004, with global sales of more than 2.5 million vehicles in 2005. The present headquarters of HMA is in Fountain Valley, California. Its manufacturing plants and research & development centers are located in North America. The Hyundai range of sedans; sport utility vehicles; coupes, and concept cars, all bear its logo: a slanted 'H' representing two people - the company and customer - shaking hands.
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    Last post by 4N2NR View the latest post
    07 Mar 2009, 10:59
  • Kia
    Kia was founded in 1944 in Seoul, South Korea as a manufacturer of steel tubing and bicycle parts. The name of the company is derived from the Chinese meaning "to arise, or coming up out of Asia." It gradually expanded its manufacturing to building motor scooters, after successfully producing the first bicycle in Korea in the 1950's. A decade later, the company had included 3-wheel cargo vehicles and motorcycles in its production line. By the 1970's, the next step was automobile production, establishing Sohari, the first fully integrated assembly plant in Korea. Other automobile manufacturers adopted its highly advanced technology, and the company rapidly added new and better models to its inventory. Kia was introduced in the U.S. under its own name in the early 1990's, primarily in dealerships in Western states. However, as demand for their economical vehicles grew and SUVs were included in its lineup, more and more customers discovered the versatility of the company. Today, it has dealerships in every major country around the world.
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  • Daewoo
    The Daewoo Group was founded by Kim Woo-Jung in March 1967. He was the son of the Provincial Governor of Daegu. Daewoo Motors arrived in the UK in 1995. At the time, it was the only manufacturer not using traditional dealerships; it owned and operated its own retail network. It was once considered to be near the top 10 motor companies in terms of production. Daewoo Group ran into deep financial trouble in 1998 due to the Asian financial crisis, increasingly thin relationships with the Korean government under President Kim Dae Jung, and its own poor financial management. With the Korean government in deficit, traditional reliance on access to cheap and nearly unlimited credit was severely restricted. Daewoo was forced to sell off its automotive arm, Daewoo Motors, to General Motors by the Kim administration. Since then, GM has been moving to rebadge Daewoo cars as the low-end models for many brands, including Chevrolet and Pontiac. GM was sued by Daewoo's former U.S. dealer network over this practice, since they no longer had new Daewoo cars to sell. In 2004, General Motors pulled the Daewoo brand of vehicles out of Australia and New Zealand, citing irreparable brand damage. Later that same year, GM announced that Daewoo Motors in Europe would change its name to Chevrolet on 1 January 2005. In 2005, it was announced that Daewoo cars would have a Holden badge in Australia and New Zealand. In South Africa, Thailand and the Middle East, Daewoo models were already being sold as Chevrolets. Only in South Korea and Vietnam does the Daewoo marque survive. The Daewoo commercial vehicle manufacturer was taken over by Tata Motors - the world's 5th largest medium and heavy commercial vehicle manufacturer.
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  • Other Manufacturers (Worldwide)
    Vehicle manufacturer specific technical forum.
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  • Motorcycles/Trikes
    Factory or custom bikes, trikes and quads.
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    Last post by 4N2NR View the latest post
    09 Mar 2009, 16:48
  • Kit Vehicles/Custom Fabrications
    Special purpose, kit or replica, and custom fabrications technical forum.
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  • Toys
    Personal toys such as snowmobiles, jetskis, boats, micro & ultralights, etc. If it moves you and it isn't a street machine it goes in here.
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    Last post by 4N2NR View the latest post
    29 Apr 2010, 14:18
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