Chrysler 300 SRT-8 Driving Impression

7/3/2016 Chrysler 300 SRT8 Driving Impression | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/article/chrysler300srt8drivingimpression 1/4 LEISURE / AUTOS & MOTORCYCLES / CAR & TRUCK ENTHUSIASTS Chrysler 300 SRT-8 Driving Impression July 26, 2012 12:25 AM MST Whether it’s raining or you have a race track like Mazda Raceway at Laguna Seca at your disposal, the 300C SRT-8 makes for a fun and very pleasant driving experience. It features a very nicely upgraded interior over the previous generation, a crisp exterior refresh, and a larger, 6.4 liter V-8 with 465 horsepower. This is a do-everything-well and do it fast sedan. This $50,000 domestic is a strong argument against the CTS-V. Chrysler media 7/3/2016 Chrysler 300 SRT8 Driving Impression | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/article/chrysler300srt8drivingimpression 2/4 The 6.4 also has more torque at a lower rpm than the previous 6.1 making for a very satisfying driving experience despite the now antiquated 5speed manual. If the 8speed ever makes it to the SRT-8, that would be a great pairing. The heavier model is quicker than even the previous generation 6.1 with a dyno tune due to that extra grunt. This near-instant torque creates wheelspin at will in wet weather but is easily modulated with the traction control. The soundtrack that accompanies it isn’t too intrusive but sounds wonderful. The exhaust has a very deep rumble as well. Exterior styling is now crisp and understated enough for long-term staying power and yet conveys a serious, sporting and muscular image. Somewhat like the old, revered Mercedes 500E. The interior is much improved with many features. Large, firm seats provide a wide range of adjustments with great comfort. Beefy best describes the steering wheel with a flat bottom and push buttons. Blue backlit gauges look very nice but are too small for track duty. The paddle shifters, while too small, have a very solid feel. Speaking of shifting, the engine is so smooth and revs so quickly, it’s easy to hit the rev limiter while in performance mode. The prior generation revved too quickly for the tachometer and manual inputs with the shifter, so a technical service bulletin was issued to enable automatic upshifts at redline. The 6.4 needs this feature as well in the Performance mode. Also missed is rev matching downshifts in the Standard mode. It’s possible these are software upgradable. If the factory hears enough owners, it could happen. Significantly upgraded, the largest-in-class navigation system includes an integrated menu with a performance mode. It correlates to a central menu in the center of the gauges for the driver. Displayed data includes a 4 axis g-force meter for lateral and longitudinal forces. Additional data available is 0-60mph, 1/8th and ¼ mile times, 60-0 braking distances, etc. Having driven the car in the wet, with super smooth, rain-sensing wipers and on Mazda Raceway at Laguna Seca, this is a great, large, fun car to drive with plenty of muscle, torque and creature comforts that can meet your family needs, your technological curiosity, and that performance desire. For more even more fascinating information about the Chrysler 300 SRT-8 visit: http://www.chrysler.com/en/2012/300-srt8/ _____ Have a question about cars you would like answered? Questions about performance, racing, modifying, shopping, makes, models, 7/3/2016 Chrysler 300 SRT8 Driving Impression | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/article/chrysler300srt8drivingimpression 3/4 events, etc? Ask me here: AskRobAboutCars@gmail.com and I'll do my best to answer your question and publish it here on Examiner.com! Robert Eckaus San Jose Cars Examiner 7/3/2016 Chrysler 300 SRT8 Driving Impression | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/article/chrysler300srt8drivingimpression 4/4 © 2006-2015 AXS Digital Group LLC d/b/a Examiner.com

Lesser powered car wins against a more powerful one? Ask Rob About Cars

7/3/2016 Lesser powered car wins against a more powerful one? Ask Rob About Cars | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/article/biggermotorlosttosmallermotoraskrobaboutcars 1/5 LEISURE / AUTOS & MOTORCYCLES / CAR & TRUCK ENTHUSIASTS Lesser powered car wins against a more powerful one? Ask Rob About Cars May 28, 2012 12:14 AM MST Hi Rob, I have a 2.0 liter car and I raced a 1.6 liter car but I lost the race. Can you please tell me what are the reasons that can lead to the loss? And how can I win in a race like this? Thanks, Bilal, Eqypt _____ Hello Bilal, Drag racing should be on the track and the start or "launch" is very important. Rob Eckaus, San Jose Cars Examiner 7/3/2016 Lesser powered car wins against a more powerful one? Ask Rob About Cars | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/article/biggermotorlosttosmallermotoraskrobaboutcars 2/5 Can you provide more details about the cars? There are many, many factors to consider besides engine size. First I have to discourage street racing but the situation and answers can certainly occur on any given dragstrip. As far as the car, engine size does not equal more horsepower unless built to take advantage of that size due to possible differences such as forced induction, cylinder heads, carburetor size, camshaft, compression ratio and emissions equipment. So without further details, it's absolutely possible a 1.6 liter can beat a 2.0 liter car. Thank you, Rob _________________ Hi again Rob, I've got some details about the cars I hope they can help. the first car is the one that lost the race. first car ( A620 ) second car ( A113 ) displacement(cc) 1997 1297 HP 124/6000rpm 82/6000rpm transmission 4 speed automatic 5 speed manual overall length(mm) 4770 3700 overall width(mm) 1815 1578 overall height(mm) 1445 1527 gross vehicle weight(kg) 1835 1415 no. of passengers 5 5 maximum speed(km/h) 175 156 Not that I encourage street racing but I was surprised when it happened and I want to understand how come it happened. If the problem is in the car, what may the problem be and what are the possible solutions to fix this problem? 7/3/2016 Lesser powered car wins against a more powerful one? Ask Rob About Cars | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/article/biggermotorlosttosmallermotoraskrobaboutcars 3/5 SUGGESTED LINKS  Drag racing tips for your street car And if the problem is in the driver, what may the problem be and what are the possible solutions to fix this problem? Thank you, Bilal _____ Hello Bilal, That information certainly explains it. If in fact your car is 1835kg, the power to weight ratio made all the difference. The other car is roughly 900lbs or 408kg lighter than yours, assuming equal passenger weight. You would need approximately 40 to 50hp more than what you have now to run close, tie or beat him. To add that much more power, the cheapest way is nitrous oxide, but I don't recommend it in your situation either. After that is forced induction or other major engine modifications. It can get very expensive. Secondly, the top speed, engine horsepower and transmissions tell me that these are not performance cars and have no business racing with any type of extra passenger weight in the car. Also, your car, being a 4speed automatic, probably can't select and hold a gear which gives the 5speed manual car a distinct advantage and probably has better gearing for acceleration. Taking significant weight out of a vehicle, unless dedicated for the track, basically makes it a junker, or an expensive proposition, so don't bother. As far as driver differences, knowing the launch characteristics of your car, available traction, gearing and reaction time/shifting are all factors. It takes practice and experience to learn and optimize your technique to account for those variables. Thank you so much for writing. Some things to keep in mind for the future: Never engage in high-risk behavior in a vehicle, especially when you have passengers or near other traffic. Also, your tires and brakes must be a match for the speeds you demand of your vehicle as well. Good luck and stay safe, Rob Eckaus, San Jose Cars Examiner _____ Have a question about cars you would like answered? Performance, racing, modifying, shopping, makes, models, events, etc? Ask me here: AskRobAboutCars@gmail.com and I'll do my best to answer your question and publish it here on Examiner.com! 7/3/2016 Lesser powered car wins against a more powerful one? Ask Rob About Cars | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/article/biggermotorlosttosmallermotoraskrobaboutcars 4/5  Domestic Performance Sedan questions: Ask Rob About Cars 9-27-09 Sponsored Content Episode 1: A Montana Road Trip Story By Montana Sometimes, you have to get a little lost before you can find yourself. Robert Eckaus San Jose Cars Examiner 7/3/2016 Lesser powered car wins against a more powerful one? Ask Rob About Cars | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/article/biggermotorlosttosmallermotoraskrobaboutcars 5/5 © 2006-2015 AXS Digital Group LLC d/b/a Examiner.com

Corvette Z06 with Z07 package is loudly amazing

7/3/2016 Corvette Z06 with Z07 package is loudly amazing | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/review/corvettez06withthez07packageisloudlyamazing 1/4 LEISURE / AUTOS & MOTORCYCLES / CAR & TRUCK ENTHUSIASTS See also: corvette z06, z06 Corvette Z06 with Z07 package is loudly amazing April 22, 2012 10:51 PM MST Corvette Z-06 Centennial Edition with Z07 package      Great views of the sinister Centennial Edition Corvette Z06 with the Z07 package © General Motors View all 5 photos  7/3/2016 Corvette Z06 with Z07 package is loudly amazing | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/review/corvettez06withthez07packageisloudlyamazing 2/4 It’s a good idea to always pick the fastest car of the group first when rain is in the forecast because the Corvette Z06 with the Z07 package which includes Michelin PS Cup Tires, they are best utilized in dry weather. This Track Star is equipped with the Magnetic Ride Control, the aforementioned street legal racing tires with a wear rating of 80 and Brembo® 4-wheel ventilated, cross-drilled carbon ceramic matrix rotors with 6-piston front calipers and 4-piston rear calipers with Bosch ABS. What does all this jargon mean? It means you take a Z06, make it sinister black in color, add the suspension and brakes from the ZR1 and unleash it on public streets. Then get in trouble while lapping at Laguna Seca because the factory exhaust exceeds the mandated 92db sound level mandated during non-major events. It’s furiously fast. Dropping it into second gear on the highway at roughly 60mph does great things to your mood and evokes peals of laughter which turn into expletives when you rush through 3rd gear going faster than is prudent. The soundtrack is awesome. Why bother changing out a titanium exhaust anyway? Remember, virtually every magazine has had the Z06 trapping 125mph in the quarter mile for years and under ideal conditions, owners have trapped 128-129mph. That’s not all, it’s a track star because it turns and stops better than most in the world. Randy Pobst lapped Laguna Seca in with a 1:34.43, quicker than any other car except the high-downforce Dodge Viper ACR. It also beats the much more powerful ZR1 (on last generation tires), the Ferrari 458 and Nissan GTR. Rating:      © General Motors 7/3/2016 Corvette Z06 with Z07 package is loudly amazing | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/review/corvettez06withthez07packageisloudlyamazing 3/4 Public Road Impression: It feels like a very wide car. Forward visibility is good, rearward isn’t bad but a bulky backpack will cause the cargo cover to intrude on your rearward vision. The gauges are large, excellent, centered and easy to read. The navigation system however needs updating, badly. The graphics are especially lacking, looking subpar even 6 years ago. Navigation is desirable in this car because it does so much, so well. The seats feel great when driving on public roads, and in a tight, banked turn, they did pretty well. But more on that later. It rides nicely, even in the sport mode although more time would be needed to appreciate the touring vs. sport settings with the magnetic shocks. It is a quiet car when just cruising. I found it quieter than a new Chevrolet Malibu. But, the super-sticky tires pick up loose pebbles, sounding like a little hail storm inside and outside the vehicle in a gravel covered parking lot . The same Malibu during the ride-n-drive hardly picked up any. At Laguna Seca: This is like driving a ferocious race car for a novice. Its limits are so high that it would take a lot of time, or an expert to explore them. Super strong brakes with very sticky tires to match means braking points and lateral g-forces far beyond what one is used to. The rush beyond 100mph with the speedometer needle sweeping quickly past 120mph causes panic when turn 5 approaches rapidly. Not only do you approach the braking point much more rapidly, but it is also deeper than you think. The speeds this car can obtain, and variances in track layouts makes an argument for dual clutch transmissions. But this is where the seats lack again, the side bolstering seems to roll away in flat, high g-force turns like turn 3. At nearly $100k, the navigation system and seats should match the powertrain and chassis. The Z06 with the highly recommend Z07 performance package makes for an incredible driving experience and a great deal of fun that everyone must experience. It’s not the most refined or sophisticated, but it is brutal yet comfortable. It’s very American. Simply put, there’s nothing like a 505hp normally aspirated 427ci motor in a very capable platform. SUGGESTED LINKS  Corvette ZR1 Review and Test Ride - Modified for More Power 7/3/2016 Corvette Z06 with Z07 package is loudly amazing | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/review/corvettez06withthez07packageisloudlyamazing 4/4 © 2006-2015 AXS Digital Group LLC d/b/a Examiner.com Robert Eckaus San Jose Cars Examiner

BMW 328i Sedan is nearly perfect

7/3/2016 BMW 328i Sedan is nearly perfect | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/review/bmw328isedanisnearlyperfect 1/3 LEISURE / AUTOS & MOTORCYCLES / CAR & TRUCK ENTHUSIASTS If you don’t like BMWs, or think the owners are snobs, you won’t get much ammunition from this review. There is little negative that can be said about a BMW 328i, it's a fantastic vehicle. And this is the 2011 6 cylinder model, not the latest turbo-4. So, for those seeking edification of their Pontiac GTOs and G8s, this is what is wrong with the 328i: The throttle response from idle lags too much; it’s not progressive with the throttle position. The navigation system can be a little confusing to navigate through, and the trunk pull down effort is too high for the last 12 inches to get it to close without an exaggerated motion. The armrests leather feels like it might pull your arm hair. Slight wind noise was noticed above 80mph near the driver’s A-pillar. That’s it. Driving the car is where it shines, but one must know the initial environment before setting up the description of how it feels. But a hint: It feels like you can literally race it after 1 mile of first driving it. No kidding. The 328i has a perfect driving position. Outward visibility is very good; the shifter for the 6-speed automatic feels ideally placed with a solid feel. The steering wheel feel and grip is great and seat comfort is wonderful and supportive. It’s as if BMW designed a cockpit, then built a car around it. The navigation system utilizes the clever wheel to show the cursor position in a circle for selecting a word or number which was fast and rather intuitive. Be sure to get updated seats if given a choice. The standard seats in the 2012s are far too shallow for the hips. See also: bmw 328i BMW 328i Sedan is nearly perfect April 15, 2012 10:23 PM MST 2011 BMW 328i Sedan Rating:      7/3/2016 BMW 328i Sedan is nearly perfect | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/review/bmw328isedanisnearlyperfect 2/3 When driving the car, the acceleration is so brisk you realize why so many opt for the 328i vs. the 335i or M3. For those that just need to get around, it has plenty of power. If you’re not addicted to horsepower, there is no need to upgrade at all. Traction seemed uncannily good from a standing start as well as when turning and accelerating. It’s as if the tires are extra sticky, it has a fantastic limited slip differential as well as enough suspension travel to cope with uneven surface changes. It was a real joy to drive quickly. The steering response has no slop and neither does the chassis for bump absorption and entering turns. Ever rock a car on its spring while pushing it from the side? It’s as if the BMW will lift the wheels before wiggling back in forth. It is that solid. This seems to be the key to it's magic. Turning the wheel means the body doesn't suddenly roll in the opposite direction. It's like one soild piece connected by specific, no-slop hinges. How does all this translate into driving it? Well if you have a helmet, it means one feels perfectly comfortable entering it in an autocross, a track day or even a race. Even the first time on Ortega Highway in southern California, increasing the pace from a hustle to rock ‘n’ roll was confidence inspiring. The 230hp inline 6 cylinder engine is still "turbine smooth" but there is no longer the soundtrack that evokes the term "turbine-like". Thankfully there is no need to pump the sound into the passenger compartment from the engine bay which may be considered an unfortunate trend. My guess a little tweaking to the air intake, perhaps from the aftermarket, would bring that missing sound element back. This is a precision piece of machinery that is designed to make your drive easier, and if wanted, faster. If you're seeking a well engineered car with excellent driver dynamics but don't require 300-plus horsepower, this is a nearly perfect choice, and none of us big horsepower fans can fault you for it. BMW USA View all 5 photos  BMW USA 7/3/2016 BMW 328i Sedan is nearly perfect | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/review/bmw328isedanisnearlyperfect 3/3 © 2006-2015 AXS Digital Group LLC d/b/a Examiner.com Robert Eckaus San Jose Cars Examiner

Chrysler Town and Country Minivan is great for moving people

7/3/2016 Chrysler Town and Country Minivan is great for moving people | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/review/chryslertownandcountryminivanisgreatformovingpeople 1/4 LEISURE / AUTOS & MOTORCYCLES / CAR & TRUCK ENTHUSIASTS See also: chrysler town and country, chrysler town & country Chrysler Town and Country Minivan is great for moving people April 15, 2012 12:09 AM MST Chrysler Minivan is excellent for transporting people of all ages. Autospit.com 7/3/2016 Chrysler Town and Country Minivan is great for moving people | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/review/chryslertownandcountryminivanisgreatformovingpeople 2/4 The minivan is much maligned as the antithesis of cool going back to 1984. Luckily the Toyota Prius took that spot although both have their unmatched advantages. The Chrysler Town & Country Touring is the ideal people mover. After driving a few hundred miles on 4 lane super slabs and urban congestion including parking garages, this a great people transporter, especially for young and old. Family reunions, people shuffling, anytime you have 5 or people, this is the perfect choice. The elderly can get in easier than an SUV and both sliding doors open and close with a touch of a button on the remote, from overhead panel in the front passenger area or the two side seats. It is brilliant space utilization and ease of ingress/egress. The LED ambient lighting adds a nice touch in the ceiling. But even better is the back-up camera which is priceless in a big, long vehicle with very limited rear visibility. Some quirks are the busy driver information readout showing average miles per gallon, instantaneous mpg, and a few other readouts. Rear passengers, with little hands and feet, or old hands and feet, be careful of the side seats that explode forward with the latch release. As well as the when putting the side seats back in place. The reason for moving the 2 side seats is to make it easier to get people numbers five through seven out of the rear bench seat that seats 3 across. The rear hatch not only opens automatically, but also closes with a touch of a button (double click, actually). Because the clearance is over 6’ with the door fully open, it’s easy to walk underneath it. This was demonstrated when an elderly person didn’t notice the warning beeps as it closed. Then the attending driver/baggage man simply puts his hand on top her head and says, “Watch your head, Ma’am.” as she scoots out of the way with a verbal exclamation. The V-6 power is quite adequate although when cruising on the highway in 6th gear, a large change in throttle position doesn’t generate enough acceleration so automatic downshifts into 5th are frequent. Not sure if this is a software issue or if it’s really geared that tall. This was noticed driving solo and with a full load of 7. The gearshift lever is within fingers reach of the steering wheel on the dash which makes downshifting easy via the spring loaded lever when descending steep grades. Even an 80+ mph “blast” demonstrated a very composed and quiet vessel. Automatic climate control with 3 zones works great for both front occupants and rear passengers. Luckily Sirius Satellite Radio was Chrysler Town and Country Minivan Rating:      7/3/2016 Chrysler Town and Country Minivan is great for moving people | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/review/chryslertownandcountryminivanisgreatformovingpeople 3/4 included but good luck having any music when family members from around the US are all seated together merrily chatting away.. The interior was handsome in a dark grey leather and wood trim that matched the dark grey exterior nicely. The center console is particularly handy with cup holders, trays for smart phones, and release handles to reveal deeper storage and to slide the entire unit towards the rear. This console was the only part that felt lesser quality than the rest of the vehicle although it worked perfectly. The rear occupants especially appreciated the large drop down storage in the ceiling, the perfectly placed air vents and rear radio controls. Even the non-baggage handlers remarked on the deep well for storage of multiple suitcases. The Chrysler Town & Country touring represents an excellent choice for hauling people around with comfort and practicality. Leave cool for the second vehicle or after the kids get their drivers licenses. Robert Eckaus San Jose Cars Examiner 7/3/2016 Chrysler Town and Country Minivan is great for moving people | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/review/chryslertownandcountryminivanisgreatformovingpeople 4/4 © 2006-2015 AXS Digital Group LLC d/b/a Examiner.com

What car for South Africa? Ask Rob About Cars

7/3/2016 What car for South Africa? Ask Rob About Cars | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/article/whatcarforsouthafricaaskrobaboutcars 1/4 LEISURE / AUTOS & MOTORCYCLES / CAR & TRUCK ENTHUSIASTS See also: car advice, bmw 3-series, mini, mini cooper, bmw What car for South Africa? Ask Rob About Cars April 2, 2012 12:29 AM MST I need a 2nd car to drive to work. My wife has a Toyota Corolla with an automatic for her and our child. I was thinking about a used 3- series 2003-2006 or Mini same year range. Gas and car prices are 30-40% higher than US (used or new). They have a lot of car brands that are not available in the US. Fiat, Alfa, .etc. I think a Mini or BMW will be reliable; they are everywhere here in Johannesburg. Also, I’m The a great driver's, and family man's choice globally. BMW USA 7/3/2016 What car for South Africa? Ask Rob About Cars | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/article/whatcarforsouthafricaaskrobaboutcars 2/4 near the Kyalami Track, SA (former F-1 track!!) and plan on looking into clubs and track time!! -Ken, Johannesburg, SA Hi Ken, I would recommend the BMW 3-series without hesitation based on what you’ve shared. BMWs are fantastic driver oriented cars that easily adapt to the track and are rear-wheel drive for a more satisfying driving experience on the track. Granted the Mini with its short wheelbase would be a challenge but is still front-wheel drive. Finally, given the fact you have a small child; my opinion is a second 4- door is a better choice. Sponsored Content This Is What Happens When a World Class Driver Races Against Himself in an Aston Martin By Castrol This is the ultimate car performance challenge. 7/3/2016 What car for South Africa? Ask Rob About Cars | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/article/whatcarforsouthafricaaskrobaboutcars 3/4 Robert Eckaus San Jose Cars Examiner 7/3/2016 What car for South Africa? Ask Rob About Cars | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/article/whatcarforsouthafricaaskrobaboutcars 4/4 © 2006-2015 AXS Digital Group LLC d/b/a Examiner.com

The Quail 2013, A Motorsports Gathering overwhelms the senses

 Once again The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering outdoes itself in sheer excellence. Now it will be the only main event for the Friday of the Monterey Weekend which fell on the 16th of August this year. It was just announced today that the competing show is moving to Saturdays.

The Quail is literally is breathtaking in its scope and variety. What sets it apart is manufacturer presence, debuts, culinary delights and of course, a parachutist!  The heavy manufacturer presence made this exclusive event stand out even more, some with world or North American debuts of spectacular models such as the Lamborghini Veneo, Lamborghini Aventador LP 720-4 50th Anniversario Roadster, the Home of Rolls Royce Collection’s Phantom Series II, BMW M4 concept, Spyker B6 Venator Spyder concept, a Bugatti Legend “Jean-Pierre Wimille” model based on a Bugatti Grand Sport Vitesse, the Galpin Ford GTR1 and more.

Jim Glickenhaus for the first time showed his custom Ferrari P4/5 and P4/5 Competizione together as well. Other phenomenal standouts included race cars from Toyota, a Bentley Speed 8 and an Audi R18 e-tron Quattro. There were multiple older Lamborghini models, a Jaguar F-Type and XKR-S GT, Mercedes Benz SLS AMG Black Series, and more.

Check out the slideshow of the McLarens, Ferraris, Porsches and a Corvette rally that rumbled in with historically significant race cars and two brand new C7 Stingray convertibles. Other significant vintage models included a 1950 Ferrari 166 Inter Berlinetta, Ferrari’s first road car, a 1969 Ferrari 365GTS, a 1965 Ferrari 275 GTB Short Nose and a 1966 Ferrari 275 GTB, Long Nose, Torque Tube.
Among numerous significant Astons there was a 1965 DB5 and a 1960 DB4GT. Guest drives were offered by Jaguar, Land Rover and Porsche. A Porsche 918 Spyder was also in the mix.

All this activity and walking makes for a huge appetite and there were six different cuisines to choose from with delicious gourmet foods included in the price of admission. Another temping event that entices the enthusiast that was included in the admission was the Bonhams Quail Lodge auction that featured several multi-million dollar sales.

A shuttle service was conveniently offered for a quick trip while still on the grounds. The biggest and especially fascinating surprise was a fireside chat hosted by the ever so eloquent ex-race car driver Alain de Cadenet interviewing former Ferrari CEO and Team principle and current FIA President ] Jean Todt and seven-time world champion F1 driver Michael Schumacher.

Capped ticket sales kept the dining and seating areas from being overly crowded. It is incredibly easy to spend the day at the show, so if you don’t arrive early and leave early, plan on attending the auction or a very short drive nearby to the Baja Cantina. Be sure to get your tickets early if you want to attend this stunner next year.

Ten Years of the Quail sets the standard in 2012.

The Quail a Motorsports Gathering is not just a car show. It’s a series of events surrounding some of the finest automobiles on the planet. Last year I said it was the best I’ve ever been to. This year I was trying to figure out how to define “The Best” in a repeatable way.

Bugatti, McLaren, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Pagani, Koenegsigg. These are some of the fastest, most expensive and exclusive cars in the world all in one perfectly sized display area. Then bring in Post-War race car greats, a gathering of Iso’s, and manufacturers such as Rolls Royce, Aston Martin, Audi, Porsche, BMW. Many of them show new or upcoming models or concepts.

Surround the cars with complimentary (part of the $450 ticket) delicious gourmet foods of various ethnicities and drinks, it’s now an event. But wait; add numerous live music groups, jewelry and other vendors (no knock-off sunglasses here!), helicopter rides, a CHP motorcade escorting Shelby Cobras from Laguna Seca and manufacturers test rides, a fireside chat with Sir Stirling Moss and Alan de Cadenet and now it’s a phenomenon.

Finally, two military personnel (i.e. “studs”) from the Naval Post Graduate School parachuted into the middle of the event. It is now a chart topper. Categories in the show were the following: Pre-War Alfa Romeos, 50th Anniversary of Iso Automobili, Bizzarini, Revolutionary Designs, Pre-War Sports and Racing, Post-War Sports, Post-War Racing, Super Cars , The Great Ferraris and Sports and Racing Motorcycles.

The only part needing improvement was the cars parked too close together for the Iso and Great Ferraris displays. On the grounds was the Bonhams jewelry auction and near the parking lot entrance is the Bonhams Automobile auction. Big attractions included a 1997 McLaren F1 GTR long tail race car and a pedigreed 1966 Ford GT race car Parking was absurdly easy since entry is limited to 3,000 people and some of the vehicles in the parking lot are equal to the entrants in desirability.

The competing show on the other side of the mountains that day isn't comparable, making a drive over Laureles Grade Road unnecessary. Celebrating the tenth anniversary of The Quail made for a wonderful and memorable experience. Every year there are new models and concept cars leaving nearly all to speculate that they’ll never see it in person in their lifetime. The Quail provides that opportunity.

The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering 2011 Is Stunning!

I don’t know if the 9th annual The Quail was the best so far, but it was the best show I’ve ever attended. What a $400, limited ticket sale admission buys is exclusivity and a perfect sized venue with excellent parking for the aficionado of cars and food. Make that fine automobiles and cuisines. Friday, August 19th was an unforgettable day. Be sure to see the slideshow pictures.

When 9 Bugatti Veyrons are on site in their own section, including two Super Sports, you know you’re in the right place. And then there was a $2,350,000 Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport “L’Or Blanc” which features fine porcelain on its body and in its cabin. There was a Pagani Zonda R totally overshadowing a Carrera GT and a Mercedes McLaren SLR 722 despite the bland colored carbon fiber bodywork.

Mr. Horacio Pagani was there presenting the stunning new Pagani Huayra. Intended for the US market but 15 or so are currently declined by the Feds due to airbag technology compliance, it’s an amazing piece of automotive design and engineering.

Not far from the Pagani was an Aston Martin One-77. The fabulous, million-dollar supercar definitely has Aston styling with cues that make it stand apart from the blurring of their other models.

Other outstanding manufacturer themed displays included: Lamborghini presenting the new Aventador, the 50thAnniversary of Jaguar E-Types, Ferrari America and Superamerica Models, new Jaguars, also Mercedes Gullwings and SLSs. Ferrari had a display of the California, the 458 Italia and the brand new, controversial, all-wheel drive FF. Cadillac had a display of V’s, including their CTS-V Coupe race car. Land Rover, Maserati, Audi & Rolls Royce also had outstanding displays.

Fine jewelry vendors were present. A helicopter near the show, assumed some V.I.P.s personal ride, was actually shuttle service to Mazda Raceway at Laguna Seca even though Laurels Grade Road is a fun ride too.

Walk around enough and the hunger for exotic cars translates to a craving for food. The menu has cuisines specific to Carmel Valley, Italy, Spain, France and the Mediterranean region.

Other highlights included:

Bonhams & Butterfields two-day auction featuring the famed 1979 BMW M1 “Art Car”
50thAnniversary of Phil Hill’s Formula One World Drivers’ Championship

Riverside International Raceway cars that competed at that location

Sports and Racing Motorcycles

It was a very sad moment of longing when it was time to leave this spectacular display. However, thanks to a parking lot of attendees vehicles equivalent to the Concorso Italiano – Ferraris, Lamborghinis and even a red Porsche Carrera GT, it was a happy goodbye.

The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering is the most expensive “show” during the weekend and quite possibly the best in variety, size and execution. I can't wait for next year.

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Brake Caliper Placement - Ask Rob About Cars

Why is it that the rear calipers are in front of the axle and the front calipers to the rear of the axle?

-Augie Ruberto, Campbell, CA.

Great question Augie! There are multiple reasons for this. For most cars, it’s a non-issue. But if you look at sports cars, it’s almost always the rule with two notable exceptions I know of. Regarding the fronts, one reason is the steering knuckle is many times designed in front of the axle and so the caliper behind the axle offsets the weight and effect of the forces acting on the steering.

Another reason is for brake cooling. Ducts are used to direct cooling air to the brakes and a large caliper will block airflow to the disc which is vented. Cooling isn’t as critical for the rear brakes and it makes sense for weight distribution between the axles.

The two exceptions that come to mind are the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution and the Nissan 370Z. I haven’t heard of any issues with the Mitsubishi, but the Nissan 370Z had a notorious brake failure when Car & Driver magazine was conducting one of their “Lightning Lap” tests. Further investigating with upgraded pads and then brake fluid to reduce temperatures, their suspicion was compromised aerodynamics. If you notice in the accompanying pictures, the front caliper is in front of the axle.

http://www.caranddriver.com/features/z-meets-wall-we-investigate-why-the-nismo-zs-brakes-failed-at-lightning-lap

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