Japanese Automobile Manufacturer

When we talk and think of Japanese luxury cars, there's this one brand that always comes to the surface of our minds: Acura. Flourishing under the Honda umbrella, Acura made a mark in the industry by giving Honda the brownie points for being the first to present the market with Japanese cars outside Japan. Prior to Acura's debut, imported vehicles from Japan are modestly designed and generally focused on penny-prudent customers.

The fruits of a decade of painstaking research and development were harvested by the Honda Motor Company when 18 brand-new dealerships mushroomed all over North America, supporting its Acura division. Emerging as the first Japanese brand, Acura proudly presented their initial models: the Legend and the Integra, a V6-powered coupe and sedan. The success of these models swept the car industry with a bang, and it paved the way for the introduction of other Japanese car competitors such as Toyota's Lexus and Infiniti from Nissan. The world's first-ever all-aluminum production car was also manufactured by Acura, the NSX, a rear-wheel-drive sports car supported by a midship V6.

Yet, though Acura enjoyed a very successful jump start, their sales took a dive around 1990s. Expert motorists and critics attributed this decline to less awe-inspiring models and Acura's decision to drop Legend and Integra titles, replacing them with alphanumeric nomenclature formulas. During this period, even the Acura NSX sales took a dip since Acura made very minimal modifications from the original 1989 model.

And still a silver lining lurked over Acura's dark eras: it was also during this time that Acura bagged prominence with a specific bundle of customers, ?the tuner enthusiasts. Acura's parent company, Honda, has a reputation of manufacturing engines that are ?easy-to-tune? and are rev happy and Acura benefited from this well-deserved reviews and the Integra became a well-loved tuner car.

Early on in the year 2000, the introduction of a few redesigned models became a huge turning point for Acura. The 3.2 TL model (a pricey sedan was designed to rival models such as Infiniti I30, Lexus ES, and the BMW 3-series. Displaying a balance between sportiness and luxury, the TL's well-rounded design and competitive price snatched customers from rival models and revitalized their reputation. Models following the 3.2 TL followed the same principle of various standard equipments and minimal options.

Today, Japanese automobile manufacturers are basking in the reputation of building good quality cars? and this is largely due to the glowing reviews and praises that Acura parts gleaned from its consumers. And since Acura is under Honda, it is a given that a lot of details, planning and focus are involved when it comes to producing Acura parts. Vehicles under the Acura brand are engineered with high standards and tip-top quality, hence their well-deserved reputation for reliability.

Japanese vehicles have smaller, more efficient designs than automobiles from other countries such as Europe or America. But even with these differences, they do not pose a threat to passenger safety. Vehicles from Acura are tested and proven not only reliable, but safe cars. And why shouldn't they be? They're made up of strong and durable Acura parts. Acura models have become a favorite in the tuner culture, so a variety of modifications and customization can be done to the Acura parts.

Advanced Concept Acura Cars

In 1986, Honda launched into the luxury market with the Acura, marketing these vehicles in the US, Canadian and Hong Kong markets. It was the first Japanese brand to appear on the luxury market. Styles were limited really to the Legend and the Integra, the Legend being a sedan while the Integra came in either a sporty coupe or a sedan. Acura built on Honda's reputation for reliability and low cost for the quality was instantly successful and while it lacks the glitter of luxury European models, there is no doubt that the Acura is packed with luxury features and desired performance. In the early 1990s, Honda introduced the NSX sports car to its Acura line up. It stayed true to Honda's reputation and matched its competitors while undercutting their prices. During the 1990s, the Acura name experienced difficulties as Honda tried to determine and establish the image it wanted to project for this line with renamed models, and a renamed version of a competitor's SUV. It tried to meet rising consumer interest too quickly.

In the 21st century, however, Acura has buckled down and revamped its range of available products to meet the variety of consumer interests. The MDX appeared in 2001 and is Acura's answer to the Luxury SUV, featuring family friendly amenities. In 2002, the RSX sport coupe was introduced to replace the Integra and in 2004, the TSX an entry level sports sedan was added to the Acura fleet. It also redesigned the midsize TL sedan, Acura's most popular fleet model and in 2005, redesigned its RL flagship model

Current Fleet:Acura's current fleet consists of six models the RL, Acura's flagship model is a 5 passenger midsize luxury sedan, the TL is a mid-sized sport sedan also featuring space for five passengers, followed by the TSX, a five passenger mid-sized sedan classified as near luxury. Acura also produces the RSX and the NSX a 4 and 2 passenger sport coupe and car respectively. For those customers who love Honda and luxury and are looking for a sport utility vehicle, Acura's fleet includes the MDX a seven passenger luxury SUV.

The Future of Acura:In 2008, Honda plans to introduce the Acura fleet to its native country, Japan. Future model concepts include the advanced sports car; this model is a replacement though not directly of the 1990s NSX. New features include a front sitting engine, and a non-aluminum body, totally different from its predecessor. It also features a v-10 engine and all wheel drive with rear drive bias. This new design is low to the ground and wide with a 108.8-inch wheelbase anchored by a 19-inch front and 20-inch rear performance tires for stability and control. This advanced sports car concept if full of sweeping curves and dynamic lines creating a mouthwateringly exotic looking sports car at a still very attractive price. Look for this model to arrive in showrooms in the 2009 model year.

The advanced concept in Acura's luxury sedan, modern, yet classical, sophisticated and edgy with an air of mystery this advanced concept luxury sedan design takes your breath away. Like most luxury models this concept car sits low to the ground anchored by large 22-inch front and 23-inch rear tires, the large proportions scream power and the tinted glass roof offers a panoramic view of the world while still giving you privacy and shade. This sedan's impressive 79.5-inch width is emphasized by low positioned narrow headlights and a large aluminum grill. The rear of the advanced sedan concept is equally impressive featuring a flush mounted rear bumper, integrated stop lamp, taillights that sit on the outer edge of the bumper to draw attention to the wide, low appearance giving it a touch of performance style. This isn't your average luxury sedan it screams power while offering the sleek lines one expects of luxury currently there is no release information on when we can expect to see this model in our show rooms.

Chevrolet Sonic Car Pictures

The 2012 Chevrolet Sonic will compete against small cars like Honda Fit, Mazda 2, Toyota Yaris or Nissan Versa. This new Chevrolet is a redesigned and classy Chevrolet car available like a five-door hatchback or a four doors sedan model. This Chevrolet was revealed at the 2011 Detroit Auto Show.

The 2012 Chevrolet Sonic goes a stride further when it comes to size and quality within the small cars family. The Sonic is going to be available in two models and designed with 17 inches alloy wheels, heated front seats along with a power sunroof.

The Chevrolet Sonic on the US market may have the same engine as its "big brother", the Chevrolet Cruze. That means the brand new Chevrolet will be equipped with a 1.8 liters four cylinder engine along with a five speed manual or six speed automatic transmission. This engine will produce around 135 horsepower and 123 pound feet of torque. As an optional feature, the American version of the Chevrolet Sonic is going to be available with a turbocharger of 1.4 liter four cylinders engine. This engine will build up 138 horsepower and about 148 pound feet of torque. The turbo engine will be available just with a six speeds manual transmission, so get ready for an amazing adventure.

Of course along with a powerful engine comes an incredible suspension. And also the new Chevrolet is equipped with the MacPherson strut front and half independent torsion beam rear suspension borrowed from the Chevrolet Corvette. The 17-inch wheels include appropriate tires that help the motive force handle the car even just in more difficult conditions.

With regards to the inside, the Chevrolet officials asserted the brand new Chevrolet may have more cargo space and rear seat space than any other similar car in the marketplace. The inside features an incredible dashboard that you can choose a color from a whole palette of available colors which will also influence the outside paint. Moreover, the interior of the 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is made to be comfortable and functional. For your purpose it uses some items inspired from motorcycles such as the gauge cluster with an analog tachometer. The instrumentation is digital and displays the fuel level, the current speed along with other information necessary for any driver.

The gadget components don't lack either transforming the new Chevrolet into the "perfect toy". So, the Sonic is going to be equipped with an USB port, an auxiliary input audio jack, a Bluetooth hands-free wireless communication along with a XM satellite radio. Moreover, the OnStar with Turn-by-Turn navigation system is used too for this impressive 2012 Chevrolet Sonic.

The security measures is going to be at high standards about the new Chevrolet. That's a must-have for any car that really wants to be a market leader nowadays. That's why the vehicle will be equipped with ten airbags: dual side curtain airbags for the rows of seats, dual front airbags, dual front knee airbags and seat mounted side airbags for the front and rear seats. Furthermore, the vehicle is going to be equipped with rear drum brakes with ABS, brake assist, electronic brake-force distribution and Automatic Crash Response service. A fascinating feature of this technological wonder is the OnStar subscription which if active will announce authorities using the telematics system if an accident occurs.

2008 BMW Alpina B7

The 2008 BMW Alpina B7 has taken the BMW 750i and used it for the basis of this new car. However, with the special design and the V8 engine it boasts, it is quite a bit lighter than the 760Li, which is a great benefit if you want better maneuverability and agility. Also, the Alpina has decided to add a supercharger to the engine as well, which adds quite a few horses but very little weight to the vehicle.

When Alpina began to actually develop the B7 engine, the BMW V8 engine then only had a 4.4 liter displacement. However, from this beginning they decided to supercharge this engine, which was something that was never done in the past before. The end of this achievement led to the impressive 500 horsepower and 516 lb ft of torque as well. While you'll notice that this car doesn't have the higher pitched sound that the M engines tend to have, it has a more high class low pitch sound that lets you know there is a V8 engine under the hood without being crass about it.

The Chassis from the 7 series was used as well, but Alpina took that chassis and refined and fine tuned it quite a bit to make it ready for the higher performance level of the B7. While it kept the Active Roll Stabilization, Alpina engineers worked with Michelin and BMW to help bring about shock absorbers and springs that have a firmer calibration. Also, the 760i's brakes were used on the care, which are larger than those in the 750i. Alpina also topped the 20 in wheels and tires that BMW used on the 760i as well. They added 21 inch wheels to the car with special slender spokes, which provides great ventilation for the brake rotors.

There are many little exterior touches that have been added to the Alpina that shows that it is a performance car without actually screaming it out. So, there are several different things about the 2008 BMW Alpina B7 that are a bit different from a regular 750i. First of all, it has a special spoiler and front bumper ensemble that are only used on this car, as well as the special 20 spoke wheels that have low profile tires on them. Also, on the side window framing, there is a special high gloss Shadowline trim that comes standard.

A unique rear bumper is used as well as a nice spoiler for the rear that goes perfectly with the body lines of the 7 Series. You can also get the car with the metallic paint in Alpina blue if you want, and it comes with badging as well. While the effects of this car are understated and subtle, the car leaves no doubt in your mind that this is a special performance edition of the 7 Series.

If you take a look on the inside of the car, you'll find that just like any BMW, the 2008 BMW Alpina B7 has all the luxury, tasteful design, and quality materials that you are used to seeing in a BMW. However, Alpina takes it a bit further, offering its' own touches to the mix as well. It adds both esthetic and ergonomic touches to the interior of the vehicle and raises the standard equipment of the BMW to a new level too.

Some of the special features that the Alpina offers include the special performance touches. When you step into the car, you'll notice the special floor mats that have the Alpina log on them as well as the special door sill trims as well. The instruments are done in a special way as well, with the Alpina Blue color as the background of the instruments and special lettering on the right bottom as well. On the special iDrive system in the car, you can find out how much fuel you have left in your tank, how far you can get on the fuel, the current speed, and how far you have to go to your destination. The steering wheel of the car is done with special Lavalina leather, beautiful stitching and it includes the Alpina logo right in the center.

Prestigious Name of Aston Martin

Although founded in 1913, Aston Martin didn't originally start out with their prestigious name. Co-founded by Lionel Martin and Robert Bamdford, the company first started out with the name of Bamford and Martin LTD. The name change to Aston Martin occurred in 1914 when Lionel Martin had several successful runs in Buckinghamshire, England at the Aston Hill Climb. This became the inspiration to create the first Martin and register it under that name, only one year after the Aston Hill Climb. By 1920, the name Martin stuck and the company moved to Kensington.

In 1922, Aston Martin began getting involved with overseas sales, trading and competition by entering two of their cars for competition in the French Grand Prix. Alas, in 1925 the company was hit with financial woes and had to close; but that didn't deter them for long. In 1926, investors stepped in to help them out and Martin now became Martin Motors LTD. Because of their already known reputation for luxury and sports cars, their reputation led them to compete in 1928 in the 24-hour Le Mans' race.

Aston Martin's fame and popularity continued to grow as they entered more and more races and competitions, winning many of them. In 1963, the Aston DB5 began production and became what many consider to be the most beautiful vehicle ever constructed. The fame and popularity didn't stop there either as the Aston DB5 model was chosen and featured in the classic "Goldfinger" film in the popular James Bond series.

Luxury Aston Martin Sport Cars

The Aston Martin is a car manufacturer well known for producing luxury sports cars well loved by fictional cars from James Bond to Edward Cullen from the Twilight books. It may be a surprise though to find out that instead of originating in Italy or Germany, the Aston Martin is a British sports car.

The Aston Martin name is derived from one of the founders and from the speed hillclimb near Aston Clinton in England. The company was founded in 1913 when Martin decided to build his own race car vehicles. The first car produced was in 1915, but the company disbanded during World War I and refounded after the war. In 1922 cars were produced to compete in the French Grand Prix setting world speed and endurance records. The company went bankrupt though in 1924, then purchased by Lady Charnwood and went bankrupt again in 1926 with Lionel Martin a founder finally leaving. Later that year a number of investors took control of the company and renamed it Aston Martin Motors.

Between 1926 and 1937 Augustus Bertelli was the technical director and designer of all cars during this period. These cars are known as the Bertelli cars. Bertelli was a very competent driver and loved to race his cars. These cars were very successful in international motor racing. In 1936 the company decided to focus on road cars but production was halted with Word War II. During the war the factory produced aircraft components.

In 1947 David Brown Limited bought the company and produced the classic series of cars with the initials DB. The DB4 established the company's reputation for good racing cars. The company was often in financial troubles and changed hands many times after this. In 1977 the V8 Vantage was produced and the convertible Volante in 1978. The company changed hands again quite a few times due to bad sales during the 1980s. In 1986 Gauntlett, executive chairman, managed to negotiate a return of James Bond to driving Aston Martin cars. In 1987 Ford took a share holding and with the revived economy, the car manufacturer launched the Virage range the first new Aston car in 20 years.

In 1991 full control of the control was handed over to Ford and the DB range of cars was renewed with the DB7. Before Ford the cars had been produced by hand coach building craft methods but now with new manufacturing cars were being produced quickly and the DB7 exceed production of all previous DB models. The DB7 range also included the V12 Vantage and Vanquish models. In 2003 the car company announced a return to motor racing with the Aston Motor Racing division. In March 2007 Aston Martin was sold though Ford keeps a stake in the company.

Bentley Motors Manufactured

Have you ever seen the winged "B" badge of the Bentley and felt like flying? If yes, you are not the only one! People all around the world dream of owning a Bentley and why not, its stature is just too big not to be desired! Bentley Motors was established in England in January 1919. The founder was Walter Owen Bentley. Walter Owen was always fascinated by combustible engines and racing motorcycles, like most young boys are, and the Bentley was an outcome of this passion.

Bentley Motors has a history full of turns and twists and quite an interesting one too! Lets skim through its pages.

The manufacturing of the Bentley started with a 3-litre engine car which was very advanced for its times. It had four cylinders, single overhead camshaft, four valves per cylinder and twin-spark ignition via two magnetos. But it did make some noise. It is said, that this noise once irritated a nurse who was attending to a dying patient. To everyone's surprise, a person present there had then said 'A happy sound to die to"! Such was the beginning of the Bentley!

The Bentley was and is primarily known as a racing car. It has won many Le Mans trophies. The Le Mans is a 24-hour car endurance test held in France. It tests a car to it limits and those who can sustain the grill, command tremendous respect and awe in the automobile market. These races also provided a huge advertisement for the Bentley. The first Bentley,the 3-litre car, participated and came a very respectable 4th!

From then on, there was no looking back and Bentley motors went on to make some of the finest cars ever known. Sometimes the manufacturing was so slow that the cars were made just before delivery and at times even the demonstration cars had to be sold. But their popularity never ceased to soar. In reality fewer people bought them due to their high prices but still everyone secretly thought of taking control of one of these. After a few years, it was announced that Bentley Motors would retire from racing as they were falling short of money. As well as this, all the rash race driving was giving the common man a very bad impression about the car. Some people were wary of buying the car, as they saw it as a symbol of rough driving. Somewhat in order to break this image, Bentley Motors manufactured a bewitching limousine passenger car. But by this time, the great depression had taken its toll on Bentley Motors, leaving it in financial doldrums. Hence it was decided to sell the firm. Thus Rolls Royce took over Bentley Motors in a very dramatic manner in 1931. At that time Bentley was the most formidable rival of Rolls Royce and the world saw this as a mega deal for Rolls Royce. Actually it was good news for Bentley (in one way at least), that their baby would at least be in some experienced hands. Thus the Bentley was actually with Bentley Motors only till 1931.