Flybrian

With the right touches, this would make an absolutely stunning new Sable sedan and wagon.

2008 Ford Mondeo Full Mondeo range debuts at Geneva : 4-door, 5-door and Estate Dramatic and striking: 'kinetic design' transforms Ford's new large car Ground-breaking advanced technologies and premium quality On sale June 2007 Prices to be announced closer to launch Brentwood, February 14, 2007: Ford has released the first images of the all-new Mondeo ahead of its world debut at the 2007 Geneva Motor Show. The dramatic all-new Mondeo is designed to raise customers' expectations for a car in this class through a combination of style, dynamics and technology. During its life, the Mondeo has appeared every year in the nation's top 10 favourite cars. A total of over four million Mondeo models have been built at the Genk plant since launch in 1993 with more than 1.5 million of those being sold in the UK. "The exciting new Mondeo is very important to us", said Roelant de Waard, Ford of Britain's Chairman and Managing Director. "It's probably the most elegant car we've ever launched, and it's certainly the most technologically-advanced. Like the S-MAX, Car of the Year 2007, the new Mondeo will attract many new customers to our showrooms as well as delighting our loyal UK customer base," he said. New Mondeo Design The new Mondeo is striking and unmistakably a member of the Ford family. It is the latest and most advanced expression of Ford's 'kinetic design'. The distinctive front end has chamfered corners and a deep offset between the top of the bonnet and the front wings. A muscular shoulder line runs through the side of the car to a high point at the rear. Distinctive rear lamps also feature carefully designed graphics that enhance the overall feeling of premium quality. A strong undercut line runs from the bold front wing wheel lips through the side of the car. Under this, full surfacing extends down to strong rocker panels to ensure the vehicle maintains a dynamic road presence. The spacious interior shares the same 'kinetic design' exterior language as the exterior. The driver will enjoy the 'cockpit' driving position as the higher beltline and flow-through centre console combine to enhance the cosseted feeling for front seat occupants. New levels of craftsmanship are evident throughout. For example, careful use of 'piano black' interior styling accents creates interest and a pleasing feel to key touch areas. Soft-touch material and ambient lighting is used extensively throughout the cabin to emphasise its quality and refinement. New Mondeo Choice The Ford Mondeo range has always offered a wide choice for customers, and the new Mondeo is no exception. Standard equipment across the range includes Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), Ford Easyfuel capless refuelling with fuel inhibitor to prevent misfuelling, Thatcham Cat. 1 alarm, air conditioning, 'follow-me-home' lights, trip computer and an MP3 connector socket. Three distinct bodystyles – a classic four-door, a stylish and flexible five-door and the capacious Estate – will all be available from launch. For each body style, four distinct series are available: the Edge, which provides a high level of standard equipment essential for business and family needs; the contemporary Zetec series, and, at the top of the range, the Ghia and Titanium X models. These flagship models offer a choice of premium quality details. While the Ghia represents classic luxury, with extensive use of chrome and wood ornamentation inside, the Titanium model will appeal to those customers favouring a more contemporary, technology flavour. New Technologies for Driver Assistance Advanced new driver-focused technologies are available, and include keyless entry and keyless start with "Ford Power" start button, new Ford "Convers+" Human Machine Interface (HMI) instrument display, Adaptive Cruise Control with Forward Alert, Interactive Vehicle Dynamics Control with Hill Launch Assist, and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System. Furthermore, this new Mondeo is the first production Ford to feature the company's award-winning Easyfuel system. This guards against either petrol or diesel misfuelling at the filling pump as the fuel filler neck aperture has been specifically designed around the different sizes of fuel nozzles. Ford has engineered its system only to allow the nozzle that matches the corresponding fuel type of the car to enter the filler neck. Ford Precision Drive: New Mondeo Driving Quality The Ford Mondeo has been acclaimed for its driving quality since its original introduction in 1993. The new Mondeo aims to extend this reputation even further, and from the outset was developed with superior driving dynamics as a core attribute, combining a refined ride with minimal noise, vibration and harshness. The major modifications include: Wider track Optimised front suspension design New rear suspension design Isolated rear subframe Optimised steering system Refined Suspension System Ford has specified the trusted MacPherson front suspension system for the new Mondeo incorporating features to enhance the Mondeo driving experience such as isolated subframes, control arm hydro bushings, S-shaped springs and dual path strut mounts. At the rear a new version of the proven multi-link rear suspension design also benefits from an isolated subframe mounting system. This concept is already familiar in the Ford S-MAX "Control Blade" design and uses four links to control each wheel precisely. Reduced Noise, Vibration and Harshness and Improved Sound Quality New Mondeo promotes stress-free, relaxed driving through low noise levels which enables easy communication inside the vehicle and optimum use of the internal audio equipment even at high speeds. The combined effect of all the engineering actions, in terms of noise, is a reduction of 3dB across the whole frequency range, compared with the current model. Wind noise, measured in Ford's state-of-the-art aero-acoustic wind tunnel is the lowest in its class, and reinforces the quality ambience of the interior. Powertrains The new Mondeo is available with a wide choice of petrol and diesel engines, including: 1.8-litre Duratorq TDCi 100PS or 125PS diesel with 5-speed manual transmission. The 125PS version can also be specified with a 6-speed manual transmission. 2.0-litre Duratorq TDCi 140PS diesel with 6-speed manual transmission. 2.0-litre Duratorq TDCi 130ps diesel with a new Durashift 6-speed automatic transmission 1.6-litre Duratec Ti-VCT 110PS or 125PS petrol engines with 5-speed manual transmission. 2.0-litre Duratec HE 145PS petrol engine with Durashift 5-speed manual transmission. A new 2.3-litre Duratec HE 161PS 4-cylinder petrol engine with Durashift 6-speed automatic transmission. Range topping, performance-orientated 2.5 litre Duratec 5-cylinder 220PS petrol engine with Durashift 6-speed manual transmission.

2008 Ford C-MAX New C-MAX joins S-MAX to create Ford 'MAX' family Dynamic new front-end with 'kinetic design' elements and Ford family face Significant improvements to interior design, quality and features Enhanced rear lighting system Harmonious evolution of proven package concept New features available include panorama roof and 'blue glass' Ford of Europe's no-compromise 5-seat MAV gets a dynamic new look for 2007, along with a host of new features inside and outside the vehicle. The agile and compact Ford C-MAX sits alongside the Ford S-MAX – Car of the Year 2007 – to create a new family of stylish and flexible people movers with the added benefit of class-leading driving dynamics. Despite its distinctive new look, the new Ford C-MAX has lost none of its acclaimed features. In particular, its bespoke and flexible 'Comfort Seat System' is still available, and allows comfortable seating for three people in the second row or the unique ability to fold away the rear centre seat and allow the outer seats to converge diagonally and move back to provide even more leg and shoulder room for two passengers. The exterior and interior details, however, have been improved, and the car features a completely redesigned front end incorporating elements of Ford of Europe's 'kinetic design' form language. This combines hard lines with muscular, flowing forms to represent a feeling of energy in motion even when the vehicle is stationary. Already evident in the new Ford Mondeo, the Ford Galaxy and Ford S-MAX models, key 'kinetic design' elements transform the face of the new C-MAX, giving it a sporty and more expressive character with enhanced emotional appeal. Giving the C-MAX a fresh new face and repositioning it alongside the S-MAX allows Ford to underline the breadth of its product portfolio, as well as offer two spacious family vehicles that customers want to own, rather than vehicles they have to own. The Ford line-up of people movers is comprehensive, with the five-seat C-MAX and 5+2-seater S-MAX as tailored, dynamic and highly flexible solutions for customers who want to maximise driving enjoyment, plus the more traditional, full size seven-seat Galaxy MPV for maximum family space. "The cornerstone of our 'MAX' strategy is to give customers all the features, space and flexibility they need from a family vehicle, but to style the vehicles in a way that allows them to stand out in the crowd, and above all to maximise driving pleasure," said Stephen Odell, Vice President of Marketing, Sales and Service for Ford of Europe. "Both the new C-MAX and the bigger S-MAX are true to this concept – versatile, comfortable and spacious, yet also great fun to drive." Fresh and Contemporary Exterior The new Ford C-MAX features a redesigned front end which includes design elements already familiar in Ford S-MAX, and blends these elegantly with the established C-MAX shape to create an even more sporty vehicle. Ford C-MAX now has the looks to match the way it drives. At the front, the bumper, grilles, bonnet, headlamps and fog lamps have been redesigned to give new Ford C-MAX a distinctive MAX family look and style. The sculpted front bumper is a high quality, one-piece design which incorporates a new and distinctive lower trapezoidal grille giving the car a muscular and solid stance. The lower sides of the bumper integrate new vertical fog lights. The most distinctive feature of the new front end is the new trapezoidal lower grille which combines with a new upper grille, headlamps and three-plane bonnet to reinforce the sporty stance of the new C-MAX. The upper grille has been redesigned and now incorporates a thick chrome lip on the leading edge of the bonnet as well as a larger Ford oval – both key identifiers for the new Ford 'face'. The three-plane, sculpted bonnet features two distinct lines which flow from the windscreen to the upper grille edges, creating a visual 'power bulge'. At the rear, new C-MAX features a new bumper which is also smoother, rounder and a little deeper. A key feature at the rear of the car is the redesigned vertical tail lamps which now use LED technology through clear lenses, giving a clean and contemporary look. "Integrating elements of 'kinetic design' into this redesigned model has been a special challenge. We wanted to bring the vehicle in line with the new members of the family, notably S-MAX, but we also needed to preserve the integrity of the overall C-MAX design," explained Claudio Messale, C-MAX Chief Designer. Technologies for Comfort and Safety The new Ford C-MAX features a host of new technologies that enhance both comfort and safety. Bold new headlamps emphasise high technology and high visibility. When Bi‑Xenon lamps are fitted, a distinctive light strip runs along the top line of the lamp unit and replaces conventional parking light bulbs. These strips feature light blue illumination which adds extra class to the vehicle's overall appearance. The standard LED tail lamps are a 'first' for Ford and add to the stylish contemporary finish and energy of new Ford C‑MAX. The new tail lamps use LEDs to provide a strong graphic pattern of dots which, when lit, makes Ford C‑MAX immediately recognisable from a distance. Cost of ownership is further enhanced with stylish power foldable mirrors with integrated indicators on high series models: When folded, they reduce the likelihood of damage in tight parking situations. A new feature for C-MAX is an optional panorama glass roof which makes the spacious interior even more airy. Covering almost the entire roof area and maximising light and visibility, dark‑tinted to avoid glare, it has internal blinds that can be closed to provide shade and privacy when required. The panorama roof has a 'Solar Reflect' coating to minimise heat intrusion, thus providing a comfortable interior climate that adds to safe vehicle operation. Another new C-MAX feature is blue glass for the Titanium series, lending even more style and sparkle to the 'modern techno' personality of this top-of-the-range model. Premium Quality and Flexible Interior Its functional and warm ambience gives new Ford C-MAX a distinctive interior personality that represents comfort. All the small details add up to a high level of perceived quality and make a lasting impression on the customer. Reflecting the 'kinetic design' elements of the redesigned exterior, the new C-MAX interior features offer a fresh visual impact with more interest and drama. Red graphics for the instrument cluster as well as red illumination of switches and dials plus optional Dual Electronic Automatic Temperature Control ( DEATC) and the wide variety of in-car infotainment systems provide visual consistency with S-MAX as well as a new level of elegance. An all-new design of optional Sony in-car entertainment systems is available for C-MAX, and these are designed to integrate seamlessly into the new centre stack. These high-end entertainment systems are available with CD player or integrated 6-CD changer. For portable audio connectivity, a 3.5mm socket is now standard equipment and is conveniently located in the centre console. Standard MP3 players can easily be connected with the audio system. A new centre console for high series models features a flowing design which links to the instrument panel, and includes an integrated sliding telescopic armrest for added front seat comfort. The interior door panels have also changed, with a new soft-touch roll top for Ghia and Titanium models. Other features which add to the more contemporary feel of the new C-MAX interior include newly designed steering wheel rim with thumb rest area for the Trend series and a new vertical lift, manual Z-shaped handbrake that is easy to use and compact, leaving enough space in the centre console for a 1.5 litre bottle. New ambient lighting in warm amber shines down on the centre console area from above. New interior environment colours (Arizona/Biscuit, Ebony/Pewter and Ebony/Dark Flint) provide a warm atmosphere and complement a range of new exterior colours. Sculptured sport seats with increased side support, unique trim and new saw-style stitching enhance both driver orientation and style, while for the rear passengers Ford's bespoke C-MAX Comfort Seat System remains standard for high series models. The C-MAX Comfort Seat System provides comfortable seating for three people in the second row or the unique ability to fold away the rear centre seat and allow the outer seats to converge diagonally, thus providing even more leg and shoulder room for two passengers. For maximum luggage carrying capacity, each of the three rear seats can be individually tipped, tumbled or completely removed. Wide Customer Choice The new Ford C-MAX will be available in four distinct series – Ambiente, Trend, Ghia and Titanium. An X-pack will also be available for Ghia and Titanium models, while a Sport pack can be specified exclusively for the C-MAX Trend and Titanium. This comprehensive line-up is designed to meet all customer needs and wishes. The Ghia and Titanium models sit at the top of the C-MAX range, with the new Titanium series delivering maximum comfort combined with 'modern techno' features and style. Standard exterior features like blue tinted glass and 17-inch multi-spoke alloys with 205/50 tyres plus interior elements in "brushed chrome" form an attractive package for customers with an inclination towards the combination of technology and innovation. Both Ghia and Titanium series can be further upgraded with an X-pack, featuring full leather trim with a 6-way power adjustable driver seat, 4-way manual height adjustable passenger seat – both of them heated – and privacy glass for the Ghia. For the Titanium series, the X-pack includes the new panorama roof, sport seats with partial leather trim, Bi-Xenon headlamps as well as unique front upper and lower grilles. The optional Sport pack offers an even more dynamic experience with a lowered sport suspension, specially designed 17-inch alloy wheels, sport seats and a leather steering wheel. New alloy wheel designs enhance customer choice and wheel sizes range from 16- to 18-inch. In addition, customers have the opportunity to choose from a wide range of optional features and accessories offered by Ford Customer Service Division FCSD, including different body styling kits to further underline the car's dynamic character. Ford C-MAX Safety and Driving Quality For Ford, precise suspension tuning forms the base for a vehicle's active safety package. Driver and passengers can rely on this as a part of Ford's approach to driving dynamics, known as Ford Precision Drive. New C-MAX now benefits from 5mm of extra track width which guarantees confidence, comfort and control in any driving situation. Other C-MAX active safety features like ABS, EBD, EBA and ESP together form a system that help drivers address critical situations with a greater margin of safety. A new and additional safety feature is the Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS) which greatly improves lighting efficiency and provides better visibility when cornering. AFS is available with conventional halogen lamps which swivel in corners to provide better illumination. According to the steering angle and the driving speed, they slightly pivot their beams to light the road ahead. Passive safety in C-MAX starts with its structural integrity – an ultra stiff body shell and a rigid passenger safety cell. Both are inherent to Ford's Intelligent Protection System (IPS) which comprises state-of-the-art safety features. In addition to full-size airbags and side airbags for driver and front passenger, Ford IPS in C-MAX also includes side curtain airbags for the first and second row, pretensioners and load limiters for the front seat belts, a load limiting steering column and a pedal intrusion prevention system. Three-point seat belts are standard for all rear seats, while ISOFIX brackets are available for the outer rear seats. This arrangement promises not only comfort, but also top-notch safety for travelling children: the original Focus C-MAX achieved a full four-star Euro NCAP rating for child safety. Ford C-MAX Powertrains New Ford C-MAX is available with a range of Duratec petrol and Duratorq TDCi diesel engines, depending on market. All offer power and performance for pure driving enjoyment and combine this with good fuel economy and low emissions. Duratec Petrol Engines All C-MAX Duratec petrol engines – 1.6-litre, 1.8-litre, and 2.0-litre units – are tuned to emphasise the dynamic road behaviour of the vehicle. Power bands range from 100 PS (74 kW) to 145 PS (107 kW), with peak torque figures ranging from 150 Nm to 185 Nm. These modern engines feature aluminium cylinder blocks and cylinder heads for reduced weight and a lower centre of gravity. For motorists looking to make a more positive contribution to the environment, new C-MAX is also available with a 1.8-litre Duratec HE Flexifuel engine. Without compromising power and driving fun, the C-MAX Flexifuel can run on any mix from 100 per cent petrol to 85 per cent bio-ethanol fuel blend (E85). Since bio-ethanol is derived from renewable biomass sources, the use of bio-ethanol reduces CO 2 emissions by up to 80 per cent by closing the CO 2 circle (well-to-wheel perspective) Ford's highly affordable Flexifuel models are part of the company's broad portfolio of advanced environmentally friendly technologies. Today, 80 per cent of Focus sales and 40 per cent of all Ford sales in Sweden are Flexifuel models. Focus and C-MAX Flexifuel vehicles are now available in ten European countries. Also, customers choosing Ford's 2.0-litre Duratec HE engine in selected markets can order it fully converted for use with Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) or Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). Duratorq TDCi Diesel Engines Ford's Duratorq TDCi diesel engines are recognised as leaders for performance and efficiency and provide smooth and quiet running with low emission levels. Four engines with 1.6-litre, 1.8-litre, and 2.0-litre displacements are available, two of which are offered with a standard Diesel Particulate Filter system. Power bands range from 90 PS (66 kW) to 136 PS (100 kW); with maximum torque figures from 215 Nm to an impressive 320 Nm. All of these engines deliver strong pulling power, but not at the expense of fuel consumption. In combined mode (93/116/EG), new Ford C-MAX equipped with the 1.6-litre Duratorq TDCi engine consumes just 4.8 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres, and even with the top-of-the-range 2.0-litre Duratorq TDCi DPF engine, C-MAX consumes just 5.8 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres in combined mode. Transmissions New Ford C-MAX is available with a range of transmissions engineered to complement the choice of engines and their power output and torque levels: Ford's Durashift 5-speed manual is available on the 1.6-litre, 1.8-litre and 2.0-litre Duratec engines, and the 1.6-litre and 1.8-litre Duratorq TDCi engines The Durashift 6-speed manual is standard for the 2.0-litre Duratorq TDCi Ford's Durashift 4-speed automatic transmission system is available on the 2.0-litre Duratec engine Building on Success "We wanted to improve the current model's strengths even further, and looked closely at the success of S-MAX when developing the new C-MAX," concluded Gunnar Herrmann, Vehicle Line Director for Medium Cars, Ford of Europe. "We're delighted with the end result, and believe the new model combines a fresh and dynamic new look with a host of new features and, above all, premium car levels of quality.

2008 Suzuki SX4 Sedan Suzuki has released official images of its SX4 sedan, ahead of its debut at next month's Geneva Motor Show. The new sedan is based on the 4WD SX4 SUV, but will come with front-wheel-drive only. Under the hood will be a 1.6L gasoline engine developing 107hp (79kW), and its developers have stated that there will be no diesel option. However, US delivered models could possibly get a more powerful V6 version with a five-speed automatic transmission. The SX4 sedan shares the same front-end styling as the SX4 SUV model, while the interior is decked out in anthracite coal tones. The car will be in showrooms towards the end of the year. Suzuki will also display the SX4 Sedan Sport Concept that's powered by a 2.0L motor and rides on 17in alloys. A third SX4 based model, the WRC competition car that Suzuki will use to enter the 2008 WRC will also making a showing in Geneva, as well as the Swift Sport Rallye edition.

Geneva may be one of continental Europe's premier venues for automobile manufacturers, but its not a show that garners the same lust and attention for us that American shows do. Most of the cars typically launched at Geneva are from European marques and intended for Europe anyway. However, recently, Geneva has been the release point for several cars that should pique interests wordwide, such as the Rolls-Royce 101EX, BMW Z4 coupe, SAAB's Aero-X, and the Dodge Hornet. Many of these 'world cars' do end up stateside or are simply interesting. Geneva's significance for GM this year (so far) seems to revolve around the possible European launch of the Chevy HHR and what is possibly a production version of the sexy Opel Insignia concept from a few years past. Other notable cars include the new Quttroporte-based Alfa-Romeo 169 that could come stateside with the entire marque, Dodge's already-intro'd Demon roadster, and a couple of Fords that could likewise be imported to the US. Plus, for fun, check out the rebadged Mitsu Outlanders. What a riot. Anyway, here' s a brief rundown of what to expect. With the show still a few weeks away, its a bit early, but we'll post the news at it comes along! Concept Bertone 95th anniv. Concept Dodge Demon Honda Hybrid Sports Concept Hyundai Crossover Spyker SUV & Sedan Toyota Hybrid-X (next Prius) Production Alfa-Romeo 169 Audi A5 Bentley Havana Citroen C-Crosser Diatto Ottovu Zagato Ford C-Max Ford Mondeo Mazda2 Mercedes C-Class Peugoet 4007 Subaru Diesel Boxer engine Suzuki SX4 sedan Volvo V70

Frappr time again!

Sure your not interested in that Galant its parked behind?

A weak yen makes Japanese-made exports cheaper to economies with strong currencies. Here are a few, but simply look at the progress Toyota, Honda, and Nissan make establishing manufacturing facilities in the United States and the numerous easy-to-find articles to corrolate weaker financial returns for the Japanese Big Three during times of rising yen and stronger returns in times of weak valuation. They even have a name for it - Endaka.

Sorry, Reg, but a nut was not busted. I like some of the GXP touches, such as the carbon fibre inserts and aluminum trim here and there, but the silver-faced gauges are lousy. You can see all the idiot lamp cutouts because they were clearly designed to be transparent on the original black-faced cluster. That, and the UltraLux suede inserts which I just do not like. SSEis were originally trimmed with Genuine Connolly leather seats, the same Connolly that supplied leather to Aston Martin, Jaguar, RR, and contracted to the British Parliament until the 2003 model year when Oldsmobile Aurora seats were used (both because the Aurora was ending production and Connolly shuttered in 2002). I can attest that after nearly seven years and 120k+ miles in the Florida, these seats show extremely little wear and are still very soft and comfortable.

OMG U N00B! U DRVE IT TWO FAST AND TO FOORIULY... FURRY-USEE... FERYUOOSLAE... FERGIELICIOUSLEE... PHUER-EEE-OOOSE-LEE!!!!!!!!11111X2+6=ELEVENTY

That's...bull$h!.

Chris ended up having to sell most of his Geo to pay down his BP Card invoice

7 2 4

Likely around 15k

And the winners are... 1st place - NOS2006 - 38pts 2nd place - VelocityYellow7 - 24pts 3rd place(t) - MRDETROITMETAL - 19pts 3rd place(t) - MRDETROITMETAL - 19pts 4th - Prototype66 - 9pts 5th - MRDETROITMETAL - 3pts It seems we're pretty satisfied with the CTS in its four-door form because all of our entries in this competition have been different bodystyles. Let's hope the powers that be at the GM Design Studios browse this thread and take note of first place winner NOS2006's CTS dynamic sportwagon, VelocityYellow7's sleek CTC coupe, and MRDETROITMETAL's CTS droptop convertible. Congratulations to them and special congrats to MRDETROITMETAL for tieing with himself for third place. Thanks to all who entered and we hope to see you again for the next one! Be sure to vote for you favorite Super Buick by Saturday, February 24th and show us your skills in Choppin' Competition #36 - Chrysler Buyout where you put a General Motors touch on a current Chrysler, Dodge, or Jeep vehicle!

Welcome to the Choppin' Competition #35 Voting thread! Remember, artists who entered must vote for someone other than themselves. Those that do not vote or vote for themselves will be asessed a two (2) point penalty. Voters, please nominate three (3) entries in this format: 1st place 2nd place 3rd place Each first place vote earns 3 points, each second place vote 2 points, and each third place vote 1 point. Voting begins now and will end Saturday, February 24, 2007 @ 11:59PM. Only those votes cast during that time will be counted. Remember, the 1st place winner will recieve a special GM-related prize from Cheers and Gears! 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 VOTE----------------VOTE----VOTEVOTE----VOTEVOTEVOTE--VOTEVOTEVOTE-- -VOTE--------------VOTE---VOTE----VOTE--------VOTE--------VOTEVOTEVOTE--- --VOTE------------VOTE----VOTE----VOTE--------VOTE--------VOTE---------------- ---VOTE----------VOTE-----VOTE----VOTE--------VOTE--------VOTE---------------- ----VOTE--------VOTE------VOTE----VOTE--------VOTE--------VOTEVOTEVOTE---- -----VOTE------VOTE-------VOTE----VOTE--------VOTE--------VOTEVOTEVOTE---- ------VOTE----VOTE--------VOTE----VOTE--------VOTE--------VOTE---------------- -------VOTE--VOTE---------VOTE----VOTE--------VOTE--------VOTE---------------- --------VOTEVOTE----------VOTE----VOTE--------VOTE--------VOTEVOTEVOTE--- -----------VOTE----------------VOTEVOTE----------VOTE---------VOTEVOTEVOTE-- Good luck to all who entered!

Welcome to Choppin' Competition #36! Time for a little bit of topical fun. You've been under a rock if you haven't heard all the latest rumors surrounding the potential buyout of the Chrysler Group from DaimlerChrysler and all the consequences such an action would entail. If this hypothetically occured, its less than likely current or future Chrysler, Dodge, or Jeep vehicles would simply be rebaged under an appropriate General Motors brand. But what if it did...? Your task, should you choose to accept it, is to modify any existing Chrysler, Dodge, or Jeep production or concept vehicle as a General Motors product. As you can suspect, pretty much anything goes and if you think a certain Chrysler vehicle would look good as a certain GM vehicle, do it. If you the the Charger would make a great Pontiac, show us. Think the Dakota would be a good Colorado? Make it so. You can use any nameplate you'd like for this new 'hybrid' vehicle. Please use only the Chrysler, Dodge, or Jeep-branded production and concept vehicles for your entry. Some Picture Sources... -Autodeadline* -FamilyCar.com -CarPhotoSite -Netcarshow Size guidelines remain at 800x600, so please size your entry accordingly. Please do not submit your images as Bitmap (.bmp) files. The winner will recieve a GM-related prize from C&G! Deadline is Thursday, March 1st @ 11:59PM your local time. Good luck and have fun! *Instructions for accessing high-resolution images through AutoDeadline: Replace the bold, orange section of the URL... (http://gm.wieck.com/forms/gm/*query?silverado&Source=all) ...with the make/model/etc you're searching for. Replacing 'silverado' with 'lesabre' will bring up downloadable hi-res images of the Buick LeSabre.

What exactly is Alpha?

Yeah...let's bitch about the Enclave. Can't tell you how many times I've seen XC90s going mud-boggin'.

Reminds me of GM's Lean Machine, which looked sleeker... The GM Lean Machine was developed by Frank Winchell of General Motors (USA) in the early 1980's as a concept car. The single seater vehicle is a "lean" machine in the true sense of the word as it leans into corners like a motorcycle whilst keeping the stability of a normal car. The original model was powered by a 15 hp 2-cylinder engine that produced a maximum speed of 80 mph with a fuel economy of 80 mpg at 40 mph. Shortly afterwards a second model was produced that was powered by a larger 38 hp engine. With a total body weight of 159kg this gave the vehicle outstanding performance and the Lean Machine was able to reach 60 mph in just 6.8 seconds with a fuel economy of over 200 mpg.

Its a 1976 Custom Cloud. Apparently... And for fun, the court case.

I...I thought this was Project Camino...

O.C., why is her left boob concerned about the iron while her right one isn't?

Wow, gee thanks, Drew! In all seriousness, we're glad you like it here at your new 'home.' Its very obvious we're not as large membership-wise as GMI, but our post-per-member ratio is very high, meaning that most members who sign up here get very involved in the site. I think the community feel of C&G seperates it from other automotive sites in general. Glad to have you on board, Pontiac-Custom-S, and hope to see you continuing to post often!

Nice! A few more hours left. Get those last minute Buicks in....how about some more LaCrosses and Enclaves?