Profile of S-Class Buyer
07-21-2009, 07:02 PM
#477
Senior Member
Thread Starter
What Your Car Says About You
You think clothes make the man? Think again. Actions speak louder than words, and what you drive says more about you than apparel ever could. What’s more, certain types of rides frequently appeal to certain demographics -- to the extent that you could classify the drivers and their rides of choice after giving either the once over.
Don’t believe us? Take a look around you while you sit in traffic: The red-eyed, neo-hippie in the VW, rustic Volvo wagon or old biodiesel Benz; Bohemian Rhapsody. A slouched playa in the old-man sedan on chromed 20" rims; Smoove Move. The smelly, messy, smoking, barely functioning wreck -- with the matching guy delivering pizzas behind the wheel; Nothing to Lose, the Early Years.
Call it stereotyping, if you want to be like the self-righteous Prius driver who saves additional energy by not signaling in traffic, sure. We have a name for them too, but our lawyers are giving us the stink-eye. Many of our lawyers are Porcupines, incidentally.
Big Guys in Little Cars
It’s more or less like the “fat guy in a little coat” routine from Tommy Boy. In other words, Chris Farley-sized drivers in cars better suited to David Spade proportions. These guys will forever absorb all the Shriners taunts slung at them and take great pleasure in driving their diminutive cars. Just the act of these larger-than-life men getting in or out makes onlookers pause, while an imaginary drum roll plays during the feat, and they all wait with baited breath. Yet once they’re underway, somewhere inside their inner children are having the times of their lives.
The rides: MINI Cooper, Lotus Elise, Mazda Miata, Honda Fit, smart fortwo, and vintage British roadsters.
The Porcupine
What’s the difference between actual porcupines and these guys’ rides? A porcupine’s *****s are on the outside. Thank you very much, we’ll be here all week -- tip your waitress. That’s a bad joke, but it gets laughs every time. You know who doesn’t laugh? The Porcupines. They think they’ve earned the right to hurry up, tailgate and cut off traffic just so they can slow down and assert their presence on all the lesser motorists, take that oh-so-important call and generally ignore their driving while they dream of the next round of golf or the next opportunity they'll have to buy something beige.
The rides: Porsche Cayenne, Hummer H2 or any other luxury SUV; also the smug nimrod who drives a BMW, Mercedes or Porsche convertible with the top down and windows up while wearing a hat.
Testosterossa
This is a well-represented category, and the stench of insecurity is nearly as thick as the cologne marinade. It’s populated by guys who think velocity equals virility. Never mind that they haven’t the slightest idea how to really handle their rides beyond flooring it and going straight. So, with shirts open and gold chains resting on a nest of chest hair, they flaunt what they think they've got and cruise for chicks. And they do get noticed. Women everywhere point and smile at them. If the guys weren’t cranking Boston’s Greatest Hits so loudly, they’d realize the ladies were actually laughing.
The rides: Camaro/Firebird, Corvette, Viper, and European exotics that have never had track time.
Nothing to Lose, the Later Years
There comes a time when guys begin checking the morning paper for their own obituary. That’s about the time they fall into this category. It’s characterized by a few dominant facts: A) They’re driving a big car; B) They can’t see over the dash -- hell, they can’t see much at all for that matter; C) They can’t hear fellow drivers honking at them; and D) Even if they could, they wouldn’t give a damn and couldn't care less what they've done wrong. This is a momentous occasion. This marks the official entry into Nothing to Lose, the Later Years. Well, make that nothing to lose except the chance to get in on the Early Bird Special, which to the best of their recollection is why they’re driving in the first place. Godspeed, good eating and good luck is all we have to say.
The rides: Buick Park Avenue, Cadillac DeVille, Lincoln Town Car, Ford Crown Victoria or the Mercury Grand Marquis.
Two Guys in a Subaru… Wait, Those Aren’t Guys
We’ll be very generous and allow the benefit of the doubt, but it seems like most of the Subarus we see driven by guys are WRXs. As for the Impreza, Outback and Forester wagons, well… sometimes we think we see guys in them, given the flannel and the mullets and whatnot. But then, closer inspection reveals we couldn’t be more wrong. Whoa, sorry, our mistake. Um, we males tend to do that, what with our proclivities toward failure. Ahem. We’ll just move on to the next category. Please don’t hurt us.
The rides: Any model of Subaru wagon or similar small crossover SUV.
Nugent’s Disciples
For these revelers of the life simplistic, The Nuge is god and Larry the cable guy is a kindred soul (even if he does get a little cerebral on ‘em every now and again). They have actually plead, “Git 'er done” in front of a judge. Like the Two Guys in a Subaru, the mullet is a timeless form of self-expression, although they’ll disagree with the other group on everything else. They also have little to no regard for wildlife, soap, forethought, orthodontics, peace and quiet, condoms, shirt sleeves, sustained sobriety, or climbing the corporate step stool. Their rides are bigger than the trailers they live in -- and more expensive.
The rides: Any oversize, sky-high domestic 4x4 pickup that’s bigger, better-equipped and more expensive than the trailer next to it. Mandatory features are a gun rack, sketchy exhaust and any or all of the following stickers: favorite NASCAR driver number, “Fear This,” confederate flag, Calvin peeing on something.
The Brisk and the Disgruntled
Despite their egotistical delusions and Gran Turismo skills, they fall a little short of being The Fast and the Furious. On a good day, they’re just The Brisk and the Disgruntled. If you’ve ever wondered about future Testosterossa generations, look no further. These are usually younger guys who are hardcore all the way -- all the way until curfew, at least. It’s just as well, the drive-thru opens early for breakfast, and those Egg McMuffins aren’t going to grill themselves.
The rides: High-mileage Asian econo-boxes precariously held together with thick aftermarket body panels, a towering wing on the trunk and a cannon-sized tailpipe.
Mom Jeans on Wheels
Apparently, some couples abruptly conclude that breeding marked the zenith of their lives. Nothing to do now but throw on some mom jeans or pleated khakis, white sneakers, buy a neutral-toned anony-mobile and wait to die, like suburban salmon. If that’s you, we offer our condolences and a little advice: In keeping with your kind, make sure the spiffy new car has a DVD player so you can zombify your kids with yet another video, thus continuing to avoid real communication or discipline. If weekend trips to the outlet mall and a chain restaurant are all the enjoyable pizzazz you need to spice up your life, you may as well drive accordingly. When you set the cruise control a little under the speed limit just to be safe, just stay in the right lane, please; the rest of us are attempting to conduct lives, OK?
The rides: Dodge Caravan, Toyota Camry, Chevy Impala. As long as it’s anything that doesn’t make waves -- that would be swell.
You think clothes make the man? Think again. Actions speak louder than words, and what you drive says more about you than apparel ever could. What’s more, certain types of rides frequently appeal to certain demographics -- to the extent that you could classify the drivers and their rides of choice after giving either the once over.
Don’t believe us? Take a look around you while you sit in traffic: The red-eyed, neo-hippie in the VW, rustic Volvo wagon or old biodiesel Benz; Bohemian Rhapsody. A slouched playa in the old-man sedan on chromed 20" rims; Smoove Move. The smelly, messy, smoking, barely functioning wreck -- with the matching guy delivering pizzas behind the wheel; Nothing to Lose, the Early Years.
Call it stereotyping, if you want to be like the self-righteous Prius driver who saves additional energy by not signaling in traffic, sure. We have a name for them too, but our lawyers are giving us the stink-eye. Many of our lawyers are Porcupines, incidentally.
Big Guys in Little Cars
It’s more or less like the “fat guy in a little coat” routine from Tommy Boy. In other words, Chris Farley-sized drivers in cars better suited to David Spade proportions. These guys will forever absorb all the Shriners taunts slung at them and take great pleasure in driving their diminutive cars. Just the act of these larger-than-life men getting in or out makes onlookers pause, while an imaginary drum roll plays during the feat, and they all wait with baited breath. Yet once they’re underway, somewhere inside their inner children are having the times of their lives.
The rides: MINI Cooper, Lotus Elise, Mazda Miata, Honda Fit, smart fortwo, and vintage British roadsters.
The Porcupine
What’s the difference between actual porcupines and these guys’ rides? A porcupine’s *****s are on the outside. Thank you very much, we’ll be here all week -- tip your waitress. That’s a bad joke, but it gets laughs every time. You know who doesn’t laugh? The Porcupines. They think they’ve earned the right to hurry up, tailgate and cut off traffic just so they can slow down and assert their presence on all the lesser motorists, take that oh-so-important call and generally ignore their driving while they dream of the next round of golf or the next opportunity they'll have to buy something beige.
The rides: Porsche Cayenne, Hummer H2 or any other luxury SUV; also the smug nimrod who drives a BMW, Mercedes or Porsche convertible with the top down and windows up while wearing a hat.
Testosterossa
This is a well-represented category, and the stench of insecurity is nearly as thick as the cologne marinade. It’s populated by guys who think velocity equals virility. Never mind that they haven’t the slightest idea how to really handle their rides beyond flooring it and going straight. So, with shirts open and gold chains resting on a nest of chest hair, they flaunt what they think they've got and cruise for chicks. And they do get noticed. Women everywhere point and smile at them. If the guys weren’t cranking Boston’s Greatest Hits so loudly, they’d realize the ladies were actually laughing.
The rides: Camaro/Firebird, Corvette, Viper, and European exotics that have never had track time.
Nothing to Lose, the Later Years
There comes a time when guys begin checking the morning paper for their own obituary. That’s about the time they fall into this category. It’s characterized by a few dominant facts: A) They’re driving a big car; B) They can’t see over the dash -- hell, they can’t see much at all for that matter; C) They can’t hear fellow drivers honking at them; and D) Even if they could, they wouldn’t give a damn and couldn't care less what they've done wrong. This is a momentous occasion. This marks the official entry into Nothing to Lose, the Later Years. Well, make that nothing to lose except the chance to get in on the Early Bird Special, which to the best of their recollection is why they’re driving in the first place. Godspeed, good eating and good luck is all we have to say.
The rides: Buick Park Avenue, Cadillac DeVille, Lincoln Town Car, Ford Crown Victoria or the Mercury Grand Marquis.
Two Guys in a Subaru… Wait, Those Aren’t Guys
We’ll be very generous and allow the benefit of the doubt, but it seems like most of the Subarus we see driven by guys are WRXs. As for the Impreza, Outback and Forester wagons, well… sometimes we think we see guys in them, given the flannel and the mullets and whatnot. But then, closer inspection reveals we couldn’t be more wrong. Whoa, sorry, our mistake. Um, we males tend to do that, what with our proclivities toward failure. Ahem. We’ll just move on to the next category. Please don’t hurt us.
The rides: Any model of Subaru wagon or similar small crossover SUV.
Nugent’s Disciples
For these revelers of the life simplistic, The Nuge is god and Larry the cable guy is a kindred soul (even if he does get a little cerebral on ‘em every now and again). They have actually plead, “Git 'er done” in front of a judge. Like the Two Guys in a Subaru, the mullet is a timeless form of self-expression, although they’ll disagree with the other group on everything else. They also have little to no regard for wildlife, soap, forethought, orthodontics, peace and quiet, condoms, shirt sleeves, sustained sobriety, or climbing the corporate step stool. Their rides are bigger than the trailers they live in -- and more expensive.
The rides: Any oversize, sky-high domestic 4x4 pickup that’s bigger, better-equipped and more expensive than the trailer next to it. Mandatory features are a gun rack, sketchy exhaust and any or all of the following stickers: favorite NASCAR driver number, “Fear This,” confederate flag, Calvin peeing on something.
The Brisk and the Disgruntled
Despite their egotistical delusions and Gran Turismo skills, they fall a little short of being The Fast and the Furious. On a good day, they’re just The Brisk and the Disgruntled. If you’ve ever wondered about future Testosterossa generations, look no further. These are usually younger guys who are hardcore all the way -- all the way until curfew, at least. It’s just as well, the drive-thru opens early for breakfast, and those Egg McMuffins aren’t going to grill themselves.
The rides: High-mileage Asian econo-boxes precariously held together with thick aftermarket body panels, a towering wing on the trunk and a cannon-sized tailpipe.
Mom Jeans on Wheels
Apparently, some couples abruptly conclude that breeding marked the zenith of their lives. Nothing to do now but throw on some mom jeans or pleated khakis, white sneakers, buy a neutral-toned anony-mobile and wait to die, like suburban salmon. If that’s you, we offer our condolences and a little advice: In keeping with your kind, make sure the spiffy new car has a DVD player so you can zombify your kids with yet another video, thus continuing to avoid real communication or discipline. If weekend trips to the outlet mall and a chain restaurant are all the enjoyable pizzazz you need to spice up your life, you may as well drive accordingly. When you set the cruise control a little under the speed limit just to be safe, just stay in the right lane, please; the rest of us are attempting to conduct lives, OK?
The rides: Dodge Caravan, Toyota Camry, Chevy Impala. As long as it’s anything that doesn’t make waves -- that would be swell.
07-22-2009, 11:36 AM
#478
Senior Member
Thread Starter
Cars Of The Hip-Hop Stars
50 Cent
Car: Special Edition Pontiac G8
Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson appeared in a DUB magazine photo spread with his 50 Cent Special Edition Pontiac G8 and has promoted the car at major auto shows like SEMA and the New York International Auto Show. Word is he'll also put it on the cover of his fourth album, Before I Self Destruct, slated for release later this year.
Andre 3000
Car: Porsche Carrera
What with his urbane suits and straw fedoras, Andre certainly picked a car cool enough to match his bespoke style. It made news in April when Andre (real name Andre Benjamin) was arrested for driving it 109 miles per hour in a 65-mph zone near Atlanta.
Common
Car: Lincoln Navigator
Known for his understated style, his talent as an actor (he's currently co-starring in Terminator Salvation) and a rapper, and his all-around gentlemanliness, Common (real name Lonnie Lynn Jr.) was a perfect choice to endorse the Lincoln Navigator last year, Lincoln reps say. He was also used in Lincoln's MKS sedan campaign.
Diddy
Car: 1959 Chevrolet Corvette
Diddy (Sean Combs) has run through multiple vehicles since his rise to hip-hop dominance, including a Rolls-Royce Phantom, a white Jeep Wrangler and line of special-edition Lincoln Navigators named after his "Sean John" clothing line. He'll occasionally drive his red vintage Corvette or the 2002 Ferrari that appeared in his "I Need a Girl (Part 2)" video.
Jadakiss
Car: BMW M6
This Yonkers native (real name Jayson Phillips) is best known for driving his BMW M6, but he's also been known to cruise in a Mercedes-Benz R-Class. Jada was a prominent figure at this year's New York International Auto Show, and he released his third official album, The Last Kiss, earlier this year.
Jay-Z
Car: Maybach 62S
Jay-Z (real name Shawn Carter) has set the precedent for ultra-rare and exotic cars in his videos. His "Show Me What You Got" video featured Dale Earnhardt, Jr. and Danica Patrick racing a Ferrari F430 Spider and Pagani Zonda Roadster, and "Lost Ones" shows off the one-of-a-kind Maybach Exelero. His own ride? The sterling Maybach 62S.
Kanye West
Car: Aston Martin DB9
Kanye's blog is a veritable online candy store for lovers of exotic, rare and expensive cars. He routinely posts photos of the likes of the Muska Super Car concept and Lamborghini Murcielago LP670-4 SV. Most recently, Kanye has been out and about in an Aston Martin DB9.
Lil Wayne
Car: Rolls Royce Phantom
Lil Wayne (Dwayne Carter Jr.) drives a modified 1999 Bentley Arnage and shot the cover of his 2005 album Tha Carter II with a Rolls-Royce Phantom. In his song, "Shine," he runs through his collection: Yellow Viper, Yellow Hummer, Yellow Benz, Yellow PT Cruiser, yellow 'Lac on rims, Drop yellow 'Vette and a platinum Rolls Royce. That's seven different cars, everyday I got a choice.
Ludacris
Car: Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid
Luda (real name Christopher Bridges) has taken the earth movement seriously: He installed sun panels in his Georgia home and customized his new Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid last year. It's all about leading by example, he says.
Pharrell Williams
Car: Mercedes-Benz SLR Roadster
The rapper and designer, voted "Best Dressed Man in the World" in 2005 by Esquire magazine, has quite a portfolio of upper-crust cars, including a Ferrari Enzo, Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren and a couple of Rolls-Royce Phantoms.
Snoop Dogg
Car: 1967 Pontiac Parisienne Convertible
Calvin "Snoop Dogg" Broadus appeared last week on The Tonight Show With Conan O'Brien to show off his yellow '67 Pontiac Parisienne, which he has named "Magic." Famous players from the L.A. Lakers like Kobe Bryant and Magic Johnson are painted on the convertible, with a depiction of Snoop holding their NBA Championship trophy and dunking a basketball on the hood and trunk, respectively.
Swizz Beatz
Car: Mercedes-Benz SLR
Beatz (real name Kaseem Dean) has the requisite cars (a Cadillac Escalade, Lamborghini Murciélago and a Mercedes SLR McLaren, among others), but he is no motor-head: He owns an art collection that includes original works by Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat and Keith Haring.
T-Pain
Car: Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe
Pain (Faheem Najm) owns the first Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe made for North America. His fleet includes 32 rides, including a Chevrolet Chevelle SS and Ferrari 430, but the Phantom is the one he drives every day, Pain says.
T.I.
Car: Dodge Challenger SRT8
TI drives a black Dodge Challenger SRT8 with a red pinstripe to match the red suede interior. His music video "What's Happenin" featured a set of 22-inch Forgiato Itos rims on the car.
will.i.am
Car: Tesla Roadster (red)
William "will.i.am" Adams appeared on the cover of DUB magazine with his brand-new Tesla way back in 2007, when he was one of the first people to get his hands on one. The all-electric low-rider is based on the Lotus Elise and can hit 60 miles per hour in under four seconds.
50 Cent
Car: Special Edition Pontiac G8
Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson appeared in a DUB magazine photo spread with his 50 Cent Special Edition Pontiac G8 and has promoted the car at major auto shows like SEMA and the New York International Auto Show. Word is he'll also put it on the cover of his fourth album, Before I Self Destruct, slated for release later this year.
Andre 3000
Car: Porsche Carrera
What with his urbane suits and straw fedoras, Andre certainly picked a car cool enough to match his bespoke style. It made news in April when Andre (real name Andre Benjamin) was arrested for driving it 109 miles per hour in a 65-mph zone near Atlanta.
Common
Car: Lincoln Navigator
Known for his understated style, his talent as an actor (he's currently co-starring in Terminator Salvation) and a rapper, and his all-around gentlemanliness, Common (real name Lonnie Lynn Jr.) was a perfect choice to endorse the Lincoln Navigator last year, Lincoln reps say. He was also used in Lincoln's MKS sedan campaign.
Diddy
Car: 1959 Chevrolet Corvette
Diddy (Sean Combs) has run through multiple vehicles since his rise to hip-hop dominance, including a Rolls-Royce Phantom, a white Jeep Wrangler and line of special-edition Lincoln Navigators named after his "Sean John" clothing line. He'll occasionally drive his red vintage Corvette or the 2002 Ferrari that appeared in his "I Need a Girl (Part 2)" video.
Jadakiss
Car: BMW M6
This Yonkers native (real name Jayson Phillips) is best known for driving his BMW M6, but he's also been known to cruise in a Mercedes-Benz R-Class. Jada was a prominent figure at this year's New York International Auto Show, and he released his third official album, The Last Kiss, earlier this year.
Jay-Z
Car: Maybach 62S
Jay-Z (real name Shawn Carter) has set the precedent for ultra-rare and exotic cars in his videos. His "Show Me What You Got" video featured Dale Earnhardt, Jr. and Danica Patrick racing a Ferrari F430 Spider and Pagani Zonda Roadster, and "Lost Ones" shows off the one-of-a-kind Maybach Exelero. His own ride? The sterling Maybach 62S.
Kanye West
Car: Aston Martin DB9
Kanye's blog is a veritable online candy store for lovers of exotic, rare and expensive cars. He routinely posts photos of the likes of the Muska Super Car concept and Lamborghini Murcielago LP670-4 SV. Most recently, Kanye has been out and about in an Aston Martin DB9.
Lil Wayne
Car: Rolls Royce Phantom
Lil Wayne (Dwayne Carter Jr.) drives a modified 1999 Bentley Arnage and shot the cover of his 2005 album Tha Carter II with a Rolls-Royce Phantom. In his song, "Shine," he runs through his collection: Yellow Viper, Yellow Hummer, Yellow Benz, Yellow PT Cruiser, yellow 'Lac on rims, Drop yellow 'Vette and a platinum Rolls Royce. That's seven different cars, everyday I got a choice.
Ludacris
Car: Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid
Luda (real name Christopher Bridges) has taken the earth movement seriously: He installed sun panels in his Georgia home and customized his new Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid last year. It's all about leading by example, he says.
Pharrell Williams
Car: Mercedes-Benz SLR Roadster
The rapper and designer, voted "Best Dressed Man in the World" in 2005 by Esquire magazine, has quite a portfolio of upper-crust cars, including a Ferrari Enzo, Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren and a couple of Rolls-Royce Phantoms.
Snoop Dogg
Car: 1967 Pontiac Parisienne Convertible
Calvin "Snoop Dogg" Broadus appeared last week on The Tonight Show With Conan O'Brien to show off his yellow '67 Pontiac Parisienne, which he has named "Magic." Famous players from the L.A. Lakers like Kobe Bryant and Magic Johnson are painted on the convertible, with a depiction of Snoop holding their NBA Championship trophy and dunking a basketball on the hood and trunk, respectively.
Swizz Beatz
Car: Mercedes-Benz SLR
Beatz (real name Kaseem Dean) has the requisite cars (a Cadillac Escalade, Lamborghini Murciélago and a Mercedes SLR McLaren, among others), but he is no motor-head: He owns an art collection that includes original works by Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat and Keith Haring.
T-Pain
Car: Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe
Pain (Faheem Najm) owns the first Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe made for North America. His fleet includes 32 rides, including a Chevrolet Chevelle SS and Ferrari 430, but the Phantom is the one he drives every day, Pain says.
T.I.
Car: Dodge Challenger SRT8
TI drives a black Dodge Challenger SRT8 with a red pinstripe to match the red suede interior. His music video "What's Happenin" featured a set of 22-inch Forgiato Itos rims on the car.
will.i.am
Car: Tesla Roadster (red)
William "will.i.am" Adams appeared on the cover of DUB magazine with his brand-new Tesla way back in 2007, when he was one of the first people to get his hands on one. The all-electric low-rider is based on the Lotus Elise and can hit 60 miles per hour in under four seconds.
07-22-2009, 08:24 PM
#479
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Join Date: Jul 2009
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Nedvijimyi
07-24-2009, 01:31 PM
#480
Senior Member
Thread Starter
What Your Car Says About You (Forbes.com May 2007)
Aston Martin DB9
Base price: $165,400
You are self-made, and even though you spent upward of $200,000 on a car, you are not showy. Aston owners, says company spokesman Matthew Clarke, "are not particularly extroverted when it comes to their wealth." They are "the sort of people who would prefer to wear the designer brand on the inside rather than the outside."
Bentley Arnage
Base price: $212,990
Your net worth is around $30 million, but you probably came from ordinary means. You chose this premier British luxury sedan and not its most-similar competitor, Rolls-Royce's attention-getting Phantom, because you prefer a car that is more discreet. You are more interested in rewarding yourself than making a statement.
Cadillac Escalade SUV
Base price: $55,400
You make around $175,000 a year. You speak your mind and are unapologetic. You enjoy life and do a lot of entertaining. You seize life's opportunities. You think, "I have to be out doing something. I want to accomplish something." You take risks. You would rather fail than not try.
Chevrolet Corvette
Base price: $44,995
You are aggressive and in control. You appreciate style and visual aesthetics in homes, cars and architecture. You are successful and seek adventure. And you are probably something of a fanatic; over 95,000 people belong to Corvette clubs, and the National Corvette Museum has 20,000 members.
Chevrolet Monte Carlo coupe
Base price: $21,700
You are between 45 and 55. Your income is between $65,000 and $75,000. There is a 40% chance you graduated from college. You watch racing on TV. You like to show off and stand out from the crowd. You are image-conscious and looking for a way to rebel.
Chrysler Town & Country minivan
Base price: $22,440
Chrysler designed the car for married couples aged 35 to 45. This kind of couple will have two or more children over the age of six at home and a household income of around $80,000--but these are the "target customers." According to Chrysler, the van's "secondary customers" are empty-nesters, aged 55 to 65.
Dodge Viper
Base price: $81,895
You are a man's man; 96% of Viper owners are guys. You are an executive, manager or business owner. Driving is one of your favorite things to do, and you want to stand out in a crowd. You want your car to be able to outperform most others on the road.
Ferrari F430
Base price: $168,005
You are rich, passionate and highly educated. Owning an Italian car means a lot to you, as does commanding technology imported from Ferrari's world-championship winning race cars.
Honda Civic coupe and sedan
Base price: $14,810
Your biggest hobbies are watching TV, going to the movies, reading, domestic travel and conversations with friends. Your biggest emotional desires are feeling secure, feeling in control of your life, having fun, having your needs met and having a sense of freedom.
Honda Odyssey minivan
Base price: $25,645
Your biggest hobbies are domestic travel, family gatherings, church functions, conversations with friends and reading. Your biggest emotional desires are feeling secure, feeling safe, making smart choices, feeling in control of your life and feeling proud of your achievements.
Jeep Wrangler SUV
Base price: $19,145
The chance you take your car off-road is over 60%. Rather than dream of adventure, you can and do experience it with such activities as backpacking, mountain biking and kayaking. You have always wanted a Wrangler. You are outdoorsy and seek excitement, physical challenge and freedom.
Lexus LS sedan
Base price: $61,000
You like to travel to exotic locations. You enjoy exercising, reading books and taking classes for personal self-development. You are married and family-oriented, and you make around $175,000 a year. You are around 64 years old. To you, intelligence and politeness are guiding principles in life.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Base price: $86,525
Your average annual household income is about $300,000 and your average age is 55. You are college educated (or beyond) and goal oriented. Luxury is important to you, as is style and brand quality. You tend to buy more expensive vehicles and replace them more often.
Nissan 350Z
Base price: $27,900
Compared with buyers of similar sports cars, you are younger and have a smaller chance of being married. You have a higher chance of being black or Hispanic, and a higher chance of wanting to own a pet. The thing you want to feel most is confidence. Having a safe vehicle that you can trust is more important to you than having a vehicle that is fun to drive.
Porsche 911
Base price: $72,400
Eighty-eight percent of Porsche 911 owners are male. Your household income is around $390,000, and you are most likely a doctor or a lawyer with your own business or practice. You are about 51 years old.
Rolls-Royce Phantom
Base price: $328,750
You have over $25 million in liquid assets, three to five homes and six or more cars. You wrote a check for your Phantom, and neither you nor any of your fellow Phantom owners have ever asked how much the Phantom costs per month, although you did ask about its gas mileage (13/19 miles per gallon, city/highway).
Volkswagen Jetta sedan
Base price: $16,490
Compared with the general population, you are 98% more likely to have a job in technology, 70% more likely to listen to music in your free time, 40% less likely to be divorced, 37% more likely to use sunblock, 154% more likely to snowboard, 51% more likely to think your car should catch people's attention, 65% more likely to drive faster than normal and 30% more likely to recycle.
Aston Martin DB9
Base price: $165,400
You are self-made, and even though you spent upward of $200,000 on a car, you are not showy. Aston owners, says company spokesman Matthew Clarke, "are not particularly extroverted when it comes to their wealth." They are "the sort of people who would prefer to wear the designer brand on the inside rather than the outside."
Bentley Arnage
Base price: $212,990
Your net worth is around $30 million, but you probably came from ordinary means. You chose this premier British luxury sedan and not its most-similar competitor, Rolls-Royce's attention-getting Phantom, because you prefer a car that is more discreet. You are more interested in rewarding yourself than making a statement.
Cadillac Escalade SUV
Base price: $55,400
You make around $175,000 a year. You speak your mind and are unapologetic. You enjoy life and do a lot of entertaining. You seize life's opportunities. You think, "I have to be out doing something. I want to accomplish something." You take risks. You would rather fail than not try.
Chevrolet Corvette
Base price: $44,995
You are aggressive and in control. You appreciate style and visual aesthetics in homes, cars and architecture. You are successful and seek adventure. And you are probably something of a fanatic; over 95,000 people belong to Corvette clubs, and the National Corvette Museum has 20,000 members.
Chevrolet Monte Carlo coupe
Base price: $21,700
You are between 45 and 55. Your income is between $65,000 and $75,000. There is a 40% chance you graduated from college. You watch racing on TV. You like to show off and stand out from the crowd. You are image-conscious and looking for a way to rebel.
Chrysler Town & Country minivan
Base price: $22,440
Chrysler designed the car for married couples aged 35 to 45. This kind of couple will have two or more children over the age of six at home and a household income of around $80,000--but these are the "target customers." According to Chrysler, the van's "secondary customers" are empty-nesters, aged 55 to 65.
Dodge Viper
Base price: $81,895
You are a man's man; 96% of Viper owners are guys. You are an executive, manager or business owner. Driving is one of your favorite things to do, and you want to stand out in a crowd. You want your car to be able to outperform most others on the road.
Ferrari F430
Base price: $168,005
You are rich, passionate and highly educated. Owning an Italian car means a lot to you, as does commanding technology imported from Ferrari's world-championship winning race cars.
Honda Civic coupe and sedan
Base price: $14,810
Your biggest hobbies are watching TV, going to the movies, reading, domestic travel and conversations with friends. Your biggest emotional desires are feeling secure, feeling in control of your life, having fun, having your needs met and having a sense of freedom.
Honda Odyssey minivan
Base price: $25,645
Your biggest hobbies are domestic travel, family gatherings, church functions, conversations with friends and reading. Your biggest emotional desires are feeling secure, feeling safe, making smart choices, feeling in control of your life and feeling proud of your achievements.
Jeep Wrangler SUV
Base price: $19,145
The chance you take your car off-road is over 60%. Rather than dream of adventure, you can and do experience it with such activities as backpacking, mountain biking and kayaking. You have always wanted a Wrangler. You are outdoorsy and seek excitement, physical challenge and freedom.
Lexus LS sedan
Base price: $61,000
You like to travel to exotic locations. You enjoy exercising, reading books and taking classes for personal self-development. You are married and family-oriented, and you make around $175,000 a year. You are around 64 years old. To you, intelligence and politeness are guiding principles in life.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Base price: $86,525
Your average annual household income is about $300,000 and your average age is 55. You are college educated (or beyond) and goal oriented. Luxury is important to you, as is style and brand quality. You tend to buy more expensive vehicles and replace them more often.
Nissan 350Z
Base price: $27,900
Compared with buyers of similar sports cars, you are younger and have a smaller chance of being married. You have a higher chance of being black or Hispanic, and a higher chance of wanting to own a pet. The thing you want to feel most is confidence. Having a safe vehicle that you can trust is more important to you than having a vehicle that is fun to drive.
Porsche 911
Base price: $72,400
Eighty-eight percent of Porsche 911 owners are male. Your household income is around $390,000, and you are most likely a doctor or a lawyer with your own business or practice. You are about 51 years old.
Rolls-Royce Phantom
Base price: $328,750
You have over $25 million in liquid assets, three to five homes and six or more cars. You wrote a check for your Phantom, and neither you nor any of your fellow Phantom owners have ever asked how much the Phantom costs per month, although you did ask about its gas mileage (13/19 miles per gallon, city/highway).
Volkswagen Jetta sedan
Base price: $16,490
Compared with the general population, you are 98% more likely to have a job in technology, 70% more likely to listen to music in your free time, 40% less likely to be divorced, 37% more likely to use sunblock, 154% more likely to snowboard, 51% more likely to think your car should catch people's attention, 65% more likely to drive faster than normal and 30% more likely to recycle.
07-24-2009, 01:51 PM
#481
Senior Member
Thread Starter
Mercedes-Benz S-Class Best Car in USA According to JD Power APEAL Survey
Mercedes-Benz and Smart drivers are particularly satisfied, according to the latest J. D. Power APEAL survey about the best vehicle concept. In this exhaustive customer survey the Mercedes-Benz S-Class was awarded the highest number of overall points for the third time running, and is therefore not only the best car in its segment, but at the same time also in the entire US market. Other winners in their segment were the SLK and, for the first time, the smart, which its buyers appreciate as the best car in the Sub-Compact Cars segment. This result by the internationally renowned market research institute underlines the high level of Mercedes customers’ satisfaction with the quality and design of their new cars.
Mercedes-Benz and Smart drivers are particularly satisfied, according to the latest J. D. Power APEAL survey about the best vehicle concept. In this exhaustive customer survey the Mercedes-Benz S-Class was awarded the highest number of overall points for the third time running, and is therefore not only the best car in its segment, but at the same time also in the entire US market. Other winners in their segment were the SLK and, for the first time, the smart, which its buyers appreciate as the best car in the Sub-Compact Cars segment. This result by the internationally renowned market research institute underlines the high level of Mercedes customers’ satisfaction with the quality and design of their new cars.
07-24-2009, 04:58 PM
#482
Senior Member
Thread Starter
The JD Power APPEAL Vehicles 2009
Sub-Compact
Smart Fortwo
Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP): $11,990
Runners-up: Scion xD; Honda Fit
Compact Car
MINI Cooper
MSRP: $19,200
Runners-up: Volkswagen Jetta; Mitsubishi Lancer
Compact Sporty Car
Volkswagen GTI
MSRP: $23,230
Runners-up: None
Midsize Car
Volkswagen Passat
MSRP: $28,300
Runners up: Mazda 6; Honda Accord
Large Car
Nissan Maxima
MSRP: $30,160
Runners up: Pontiac G8; Toyota Avalon
Compact Premium Sporty Car
Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class
MSRP: $45,950
Runner-up: Nissan Z
Entry Premium Vehicle
Volkswagen CC
MSRP: $27,100
Runners-up: Cadillac CTS; Audi A4/5
Midsize Sporty Car
Dodge Challenger
MSRP: $22,945
Runners up: None
Midsize Premium Car
Hyundai Genesis
MSRP: $32,250
Runners up: Jaguar XF; BMW 5 Series
Large Premium Car
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
MSRP: $89,350
Runner up: Lexus LS
Sub-Compact
Smart Fortwo
Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP): $11,990
Runners-up: Scion xD; Honda Fit
Compact Car
MINI Cooper
MSRP: $19,200
Runners-up: Volkswagen Jetta; Mitsubishi Lancer
Compact Sporty Car
Volkswagen GTI
MSRP: $23,230
Runners-up: None
Midsize Car
Volkswagen Passat
MSRP: $28,300
Runners up: Mazda 6; Honda Accord
Large Car
Nissan Maxima
MSRP: $30,160
Runners up: Pontiac G8; Toyota Avalon
Compact Premium Sporty Car
Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class
MSRP: $45,950
Runner-up: Nissan Z
Entry Premium Vehicle
Volkswagen CC
MSRP: $27,100
Runners-up: Cadillac CTS; Audi A4/5
Midsize Sporty Car
Dodge Challenger
MSRP: $22,945
Runners up: None
Midsize Premium Car
Hyundai Genesis
MSRP: $32,250
Runners up: Jaguar XF; BMW 5 Series
Large Premium Car
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
MSRP: $89,350
Runner up: Lexus LS
07-26-2009, 07:47 PM
#483
MBWorld Fanatic!
Join Date: Apr 2003
Location: SoCal OC
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S, GL, Escalade ESV, my shoes
You really spam this thread with of all the crappy posts about Mercedes this and that. Don't you have better thing to do ?
This is not a Buggati, it's a mass production brand. Sure MBZ produces some nice cars, but they're not worthy to spend hours and hours to write about.
Give it up, junkie
07-26-2009, 08:26 PM
#484
Super Member
Join Date: Aug 2007
Location: Maui, Hawaii
Posts: 950
Likes: 0
Received 2 Likes
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CLS63, GLK350
man
You really spam this thread with of all the crappy posts about Mercedes this and that. Don't you have better thing to do ?
This is not a Buggati, it's a mass production brand. Sure MBZ produces some nice cars, but they're not worthy to spend hours and hours to write about.
Give it up, junkie
You really spam this thread with of all the crappy posts about Mercedes this and that. Don't you have better thing to do ?
This is not a Buggati, it's a mass production brand. Sure MBZ produces some nice cars, but they're not worthy to spend hours and hours to write about.
Give it up, junkie
07-27-2009, 03:09 AM
#485
Out Of Control!!
Join Date: Jun 2008
Location: Earth
Posts: 10,557
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Porsche Macan S SportDesign / Ex M-B's: 11 & 10 & 06 E350's, 02 S500
man
You really spam this thread with of all the crappy posts about Mercedes this and that. Don't you have better thing to do ?
This is not a Buggati, it's a mass production brand. Sure MBZ produces some nice cars, but they're not worthy to spend hours and hours to write about.
Give it up, junkie
You really spam this thread with of all the crappy posts about Mercedes this and that. Don't you have better thing to do ?
This is not a Buggati, it's a mass production brand. Sure MBZ produces some nice cars, but they're not worthy to spend hours and hours to write about.
Give it up, junkie
Do something productive.
07-27-2009, 06:24 AM
#486
MBWorld Fanatic!
man
You really spam this thread with of all the crappy posts about Mercedes this and that. Don't you have better thing to do ?
This is not a Buggati, it's a mass production brand. Sure MBZ produces some nice cars, but they're not worthy to spend hours and hours to write about.
Give it up, junkie
You really spam this thread with of all the crappy posts about Mercedes this and that. Don't you have better thing to do ?
This is not a Buggati, it's a mass production brand. Sure MBZ produces some nice cars, but they're not worthy to spend hours and hours to write about.
Give it up, junkie
Don't read it if you don't like it!
07-28-2009, 09:22 AM
#487
Senior Member
Thread Starter
What the Color of Your Car Says About You
The color of your car reveals a lot about you: your personality, your moods, and even how satisfied you are with your life.
Yes, your fiery orange-red sports car says exactly what you think it does: you’re sexy, speedy, high-energy, dynamic. Before you preen, go out and look at your red car. Most red cars on the road are more of a kidney bean color. Is yours? If so, it means you are dynamic and energetic but are losing your fire. You really want to be have that orange-red sports car personality, but you just can’t quite make it. You’re too busy, too old, or too tired. For all the good your red car does you, it might as well be brown.
A silver car generally means that you are cool and elegant. The only problem is that since silver was the most popular car color for several years, almost everyone owns one, like your neighbors who don’t mow their lawns and don’t put their garbage cans away after the garbage has been picked up. Real cool. Very elegant.
White is supposed to mean you are fastidious, but what it really means is that you wanted that fiery orange-red sports car, but you drive like a bat out of hell or like batman in his batmobile, (depending on your age group) and you were afraid that you’d get too many tickets so you chose the less conspicuous white. Good thinking. On average, while drivers in red cars do not get more tickets than anyone else, orange-red sports car drivers do, and let’s face it, they deserve them. Who drives the speed limit in a car like that?
A light blue vehicle means that you’re calm and quiet. It could also mean that you went to the showroom to buy a sunshine yellow car to show how joyful and young-at-heart you are, but they only had marine blue, and since you really are a calm, quiet person who doesn’t like to make waves, you bought it.
A dark green vehicle means that you are traditional, trusty, and well balanced, but what it really means is that you are thrifty. Who makes dark green cars anymore? If you own one, it’s probably been a while since you bought a new vehicle.
A purple vehicle means you are creative, individualistic, original, and perhaps it does. It could also mean you’re too old to care what anyone thinks of you.
A black vehicle says you are empowered, not easily manipulated, love elegance, and you appreciate the classics. It’s also says that you are mysterious or that you have two sides to your personality; it’s the favored car of both clergy and gangsters.
A dark blue vehicle says you are credible, confident, dependable. And you drive too much because you always get stuck with the carpool.
A gray vehicle says you are sober, corporate, practical. And boring. But if that gray car is charcoal with sparkles, you still have flashes of brilliance and charisma.
An orange vehicle says you are fun loving, talkative, fickle, trendy. A yellow-green one says you are trendy, whimsical, lively. And you know it’s true. Only fun and whimsical cars come in these colors: Volkswagen bugs and little sportscars.
A tan vehicle means that you’re timeless, basic, simple, but it also means you have something to hide. Maybe bad driving habits? Or that you never wash your car?
A gold vehicle says is that you love comfort and will pay for it; it also says that you’re intelligent, and you must be - you were smart enough to come read my article!
And a brown vehicle supposedly means you’re down-to-earth but who are you trying to kid? If you really cared about the earth, you wouldn’t have bought that big old gas-guzzler.
I think this is soooo true!
The color of your car reveals a lot about you: your personality, your moods, and even how satisfied you are with your life.
Yes, your fiery orange-red sports car says exactly what you think it does: you’re sexy, speedy, high-energy, dynamic. Before you preen, go out and look at your red car. Most red cars on the road are more of a kidney bean color. Is yours? If so, it means you are dynamic and energetic but are losing your fire. You really want to be have that orange-red sports car personality, but you just can’t quite make it. You’re too busy, too old, or too tired. For all the good your red car does you, it might as well be brown.
A silver car generally means that you are cool and elegant. The only problem is that since silver was the most popular car color for several years, almost everyone owns one, like your neighbors who don’t mow their lawns and don’t put their garbage cans away after the garbage has been picked up. Real cool. Very elegant.
White is supposed to mean you are fastidious, but what it really means is that you wanted that fiery orange-red sports car, but you drive like a bat out of hell or like batman in his batmobile, (depending on your age group) and you were afraid that you’d get too many tickets so you chose the less conspicuous white. Good thinking. On average, while drivers in red cars do not get more tickets than anyone else, orange-red sports car drivers do, and let’s face it, they deserve them. Who drives the speed limit in a car like that?
A light blue vehicle means that you’re calm and quiet. It could also mean that you went to the showroom to buy a sunshine yellow car to show how joyful and young-at-heart you are, but they only had marine blue, and since you really are a calm, quiet person who doesn’t like to make waves, you bought it.
A dark green vehicle means that you are traditional, trusty, and well balanced, but what it really means is that you are thrifty. Who makes dark green cars anymore? If you own one, it’s probably been a while since you bought a new vehicle.
A purple vehicle means you are creative, individualistic, original, and perhaps it does. It could also mean you’re too old to care what anyone thinks of you.
A black vehicle says you are empowered, not easily manipulated, love elegance, and you appreciate the classics. It’s also says that you are mysterious or that you have two sides to your personality; it’s the favored car of both clergy and gangsters.
A dark blue vehicle says you are credible, confident, dependable. And you drive too much because you always get stuck with the carpool.
A gray vehicle says you are sober, corporate, practical. And boring. But if that gray car is charcoal with sparkles, you still have flashes of brilliance and charisma.
An orange vehicle says you are fun loving, talkative, fickle, trendy. A yellow-green one says you are trendy, whimsical, lively. And you know it’s true. Only fun and whimsical cars come in these colors: Volkswagen bugs and little sportscars.
A tan vehicle means that you’re timeless, basic, simple, but it also means you have something to hide. Maybe bad driving habits? Or that you never wash your car?
A gold vehicle says is that you love comfort and will pay for it; it also says that you’re intelligent, and you must be - you were smart enough to come read my article!
And a brown vehicle supposedly means you’re down-to-earth but who are you trying to kid? If you really cared about the earth, you wouldn’t have bought that big old gas-guzzler.
I think this is soooo true!
07-28-2009, 10:29 AM
#488
Senior Member
Join Date: Jul 2009
Location: Latitude 26.1695, Longitude -80.0997
Posts: 475
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my wife wild, but she loves every minute of it.
Denial: It's more than a river in Africa.
man
You really spam this thread with of all the crappy posts about Mercedes this and that. Don't you have better thing to do ?
This is not a Buggati (SIC), it's a mass production brand. Sure MBZ produces some nice cars, but they're not worthy to spend hours and hours to write about.
Give it up, junkie
You really spam this thread with of all the crappy posts about Mercedes this and that. Don't you have better thing to do ?
This is not a Buggati (SIC), it's a mass production brand. Sure MBZ produces some nice cars, but they're not worthy to spend hours and hours to write about.
Give it up, junkie
07-29-2009, 12:08 PM
#489
Senior Member
Thread Starter
It's true! A Porsche Does Say Something About You
Women have long mocked the male obsession with fast cars, querying how a machine can make you feel more of a man.
Now scientists have found proof that sports cars really can make men feel more macho.
Going for a spin in a million-rand Porsche sends testosterone soaring, a study found, but driving a clapped-out Toyota had the opposite effect.
The Canadian researchers said it seems that men, like peacocks fanning their tails, believe the conspicuous displays are the best way to grab a female's attention 'Men consider their cars as extensions of themselves'.
Writing in the journal 'Organisational Behaviour and Human Decision Processes', they said: "Men use their cars to advertise their wealth. They consider them as extensions of themselves: they feed them, bathe them, observe their age and nurse them.
"They believe that owning the right car is akin to possessing a powerful sexual charm that renders them irresistible to women.”
"Through their lurid displays of wealth, Porsche owners signal to others that they could bear substantial financial costs.” - Daily Mail
Women have long mocked the male obsession with fast cars, querying how a machine can make you feel more of a man.
Now scientists have found proof that sports cars really can make men feel more macho.
Going for a spin in a million-rand Porsche sends testosterone soaring, a study found, but driving a clapped-out Toyota had the opposite effect.
The Canadian researchers said it seems that men, like peacocks fanning their tails, believe the conspicuous displays are the best way to grab a female's attention 'Men consider their cars as extensions of themselves'.
Writing in the journal 'Organisational Behaviour and Human Decision Processes', they said: "Men use their cars to advertise their wealth. They consider them as extensions of themselves: they feed them, bathe them, observe their age and nurse them.
"They believe that owning the right car is akin to possessing a powerful sexual charm that renders them irresistible to women.”
"Through their lurid displays of wealth, Porsche owners signal to others that they could bear substantial financial costs.” - Daily Mail
07-30-2009, 07:04 AM
#490
MBWorld Fanatic!
...
The Canadian researchers said it seems that men, like peacocks fanning their tails, believe the conspicuous displays are the best way to grab a female's attention 'Men consider their cars as extensions of themselves'.
Writing in the journal 'Organisational Behaviour and Human Decision Processes', they said: "Men use their cars to advertise their wealth. They consider them as extensions of themselves: they feed them, bathe them, observe their age and nurse them.
...
The Canadian researchers said it seems that men, like peacocks fanning their tails, believe the conspicuous displays are the best way to grab a female's attention 'Men consider their cars as extensions of themselves'.
Writing in the journal 'Organisational Behaviour and Human Decision Processes', they said: "Men use their cars to advertise their wealth. They consider them as extensions of themselves: they feed them, bathe them, observe their age and nurse them.
...
I read somwhere that certain nationality considers a car as an extension of ....
And another as a substitution
(I will not mention which nationality
)Go and fiqure
07-30-2009, 08:14 AM
#491
Senior Member
Join Date: Jul 2009
Location: Latitude 26.1695, Longitude -80.0997
Posts: 475
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my wife wild, but she loves every minute of it.
07-31-2009, 09:54 PM
#492
Senior Member
Thread Starter
Mercedes-Benz S-Class Stretch Limo
The facelifted Mercedes-Benz S-Class was shown in April this year. Now spies have caught the stretch limousine version of the car being tested. The front end seems to feature a new bumper and LED lights will be part of its appearance. The limo appears to be on some sort of skid pan in what looks like the standard training exercise conducted by Mercedes-Benz for drivers and sometimes owners of these cars.
Mercedes-Benz is big on stretched limousines and has a good chunk of the market in many countries. This particular car should be 6.4 metres long and weigh more than two tones.
The current S-Class Pullman Guard is powered by a 5.5-litre V12 bi-turbo engine that makes a heady 380kW (517hp) and 830Nm of torque. Peformance figures are not the same as the standard-length car because of the extra security features installed, such as thicker windows. It also has body resistance for certain types of hand guns, some explosives, runs on runflat tyres and has an interior fire extinguisher fitted.
The Pullman Guard is not just a semi-armoured tank but a proper S-Class as well, which means a luxurious interior suited to the kind of money paid for such a car.
The facelifted Mercedes-Benz S-Class was shown in April this year. Now spies have caught the stretch limousine version of the car being tested. The front end seems to feature a new bumper and LED lights will be part of its appearance. The limo appears to be on some sort of skid pan in what looks like the standard training exercise conducted by Mercedes-Benz for drivers and sometimes owners of these cars.
Mercedes-Benz is big on stretched limousines and has a good chunk of the market in many countries. This particular car should be 6.4 metres long and weigh more than two tones.
The current S-Class Pullman Guard is powered by a 5.5-litre V12 bi-turbo engine that makes a heady 380kW (517hp) and 830Nm of torque. Peformance figures are not the same as the standard-length car because of the extra security features installed, such as thicker windows. It also has body resistance for certain types of hand guns, some explosives, runs on runflat tyres and has an interior fire extinguisher fitted.
The Pullman Guard is not just a semi-armoured tank but a proper S-Class as well, which means a luxurious interior suited to the kind of money paid for such a car.
08-01-2009, 09:16 PM
#493
Senior Member
Thread Starter
Cars Of Sports Stars
Chipper Jones
Sport: Baseball
Team: Atlanta Braves
Position: Third base
Car: Ford F-150
Cristiano Ronaldo
Sport: Soccer
Team: Real Madrid
Position: Winger
Car: Bentley Continental GT Speed. According to news reports, Ronaldo is selling his Bentley and other cars he acquired while playing for Manchester United, ahead of his move to Spain to play for Real Madrid.
Greg Norman
Sport: Golf
All-Time Money List: No. 52 with $14,484,458 won in his career
Car: Land Rover Range Rover Sport (limited edition available only to a select few)
Hanley Ramirez
Sport: Baseball
Team: Florida Marlins
Position: Shortstop
Car: Bentley Continental, Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG, Land Rover Range Rover Sport, Mercedes-Benz GL 550, Hummer H2T, Mitsubishi Montero
Kenshin Kawakami
Sport: Baseball
Team: Atlanta Braves
Position: Pitcher
Cars: Maserati Grand Turismo S, Lamborghini Murcielago
Lebron James
Sport: Basketball
Team: Cleveland Cavaliers
Position: Forward
Car: Ferrari F430 Spider
Maria Sharapova
Sport: Tennis
Current Rank: 61
Career Prize Money: $12,413,984
Car: Land Rover Range Rover Supercharged
Michelle Wie
Sport: Golf
2009 Money List: The 17th top earner, with $435,191 in winnings as of July 15, 2009
2009 Top 10 Finishes: 5
Car: BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GL 550
Rio Ferdinand
Sport: Soccer
Team: Manchester United
Position: Center back
Car: Techart Magnum (Porsche Cayenne upgrade)
Se Ri Pak
Sport: Golf
2009 Money List: No. 25 on the year's money list, earning $291,303 as of July 15
Car: Mercedes-Benz CLK 500, Mercedes-Benz ML 550, Mercedes-Benz ML 500
Tom Brady
Sport: Football
Team: New England Patriots
Position: Quarterback
Car: Audi S5, Audi Q7 TDI, Audi R8
Chipper Jones
Sport: Baseball
Team: Atlanta Braves
Position: Third base
Car: Ford F-150
Cristiano Ronaldo
Sport: Soccer
Team: Real Madrid
Position: Winger
Car: Bentley Continental GT Speed. According to news reports, Ronaldo is selling his Bentley and other cars he acquired while playing for Manchester United, ahead of his move to Spain to play for Real Madrid.
Greg Norman
Sport: Golf
All-Time Money List: No. 52 with $14,484,458 won in his career
Car: Land Rover Range Rover Sport (limited edition available only to a select few)
Hanley Ramirez
Sport: Baseball
Team: Florida Marlins
Position: Shortstop
Car: Bentley Continental, Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG, Land Rover Range Rover Sport, Mercedes-Benz GL 550, Hummer H2T, Mitsubishi Montero
Kenshin Kawakami
Sport: Baseball
Team: Atlanta Braves
Position: Pitcher
Cars: Maserati Grand Turismo S, Lamborghini Murcielago
Lebron James
Sport: Basketball
Team: Cleveland Cavaliers
Position: Forward
Car: Ferrari F430 Spider
Maria Sharapova
Sport: Tennis
Current Rank: 61
Career Prize Money: $12,413,984
Car: Land Rover Range Rover Supercharged
Michelle Wie
Sport: Golf
2009 Money List: The 17th top earner, with $435,191 in winnings as of July 15, 2009
2009 Top 10 Finishes: 5
Car: BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GL 550
Rio Ferdinand
Sport: Soccer
Team: Manchester United
Position: Center back
Car: Techart Magnum (Porsche Cayenne upgrade)
Se Ri Pak
Sport: Golf
2009 Money List: No. 25 on the year's money list, earning $291,303 as of July 15
Car: Mercedes-Benz CLK 500, Mercedes-Benz ML 550, Mercedes-Benz ML 500
Tom Brady
Sport: Football
Team: New England Patriots
Position: Quarterback
Car: Audi S5, Audi Q7 TDI, Audi R8
08-02-2009, 02:41 PM
#494
Senior Member
Thread Starter
Luxury Car Makers Could Get Partial Exemption from CO2 Rules
Some carmakers could be awarded a "get out of jail free" card for the new national greenhouse gas rules announced by the Obama administration in May. The EPA and NHTSA won't issue final rules until later this year, but it looks like carmakers that sell less than 400,000 cars a year could catch a break this time around. Apparently, up to one-quarter of the company's fleets would get a four-year exemption. That would allow companies like Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz to sell high-powered RS, M and AMG models without it affecting their fleet CO2 emissions numbers.
The proposed rules would give the automakers less of a break than the California rules, which would have exempted their entire fleets for seven years. Nonetheless, these automakers would still have an advantage over a company like General Motors which competes with some of these cars with the likes of the Corvette ZR1 and Cadillac CTS-V.
Some carmakers could be awarded a "get out of jail free" card for the new national greenhouse gas rules announced by the Obama administration in May. The EPA and NHTSA won't issue final rules until later this year, but it looks like carmakers that sell less than 400,000 cars a year could catch a break this time around. Apparently, up to one-quarter of the company's fleets would get a four-year exemption. That would allow companies like Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz to sell high-powered RS, M and AMG models without it affecting their fleet CO2 emissions numbers.
The proposed rules would give the automakers less of a break than the California rules, which would have exempted their entire fleets for seven years. Nonetheless, these automakers would still have an advantage over a company like General Motors which competes with some of these cars with the likes of the Corvette ZR1 and Cadillac CTS-V.
08-03-2009, 04:36 PM
#495
Senior Member
Thread Starter
Most Expensive Cars 2009
Tesla Roadster
$101,500
Electric Engine
Top Speed: 125 mph
Zero to 60: 3.9 seconds
Tesla's impressive electric roadster reaches 60 mph in under four seconds. Normally such a feat can only be accomplished by gas-guzzling supercars, but Tesla's innovative engineering proved that an eco-friendly car need not lack in performance.
BMW M6 Coupe
$107,900
500 hp
Top Speed: 155 mph
Zero to 60: 4.6 seconds
Produced since 2005, BMW's second-generation M6 boasts an impressive 500 horses for just over $100,000. Lightweight materials like carbon fiber and aluminum help make up the car's stylish design.
Chevrolet Corvette ZR1
$113,970
638 hp
Top Speed: 205 mph
Zero to 60: 3.4 seconds
Chevy's Corvette, which has long been considered by many to be America's iconic sportscar, got an overhaul this year. Worry not purists: There are no drastic changes to the exterior, but the engine in the ZR1 ZR-3 is superior to its predecessors, making it the fastest and most powerful Corvette made in the car's 56-year history.
Audi R8
$114,200
420 hp
Top Speed: 187 mph
Zero to 60: 4.4 seconds
Introduced in 2006, the R8 is Audi's first attempt at entering the luxury supercar market. Its futuristic design famously earned it a prominent spot in the science fiction blockbuster I Robot
Maserati GranTurismo
$117,500
405 hp
Top Speed: 177 mph
Zero to 60: 5.2 seconds
The nearly century-old Italian carmaker recently introduced an automatic version of its popular sports car, which has been well-received among automotive critics.
Aston Martin Vantage
$119,500
420 hp
Top Speed: 175 mph
Zero to 60: 4.9 seconds
Touted by automotive critics as one of the most elegant cars for the price, the Vantage also is built on performance. This year's model saw boosts in torque, hp, and engine size.
Panoz Esperante GTS
$128,319
305 hp
Top Speed: 155 mph
Zero to 60: 4.9 seconds
The Esperante has racing in its blood. Panoz is one of the most recognizable names in racing circuits around the world. The American-made car is designed not only for the road, but is also track-ready, taking part in several circuits nationwide.
Morgan Aero 8
$129,950
367 hp
Top Speed: 170 mph
Zero to 60: 4.5 seconds
The Aero 8's design is unique among luxury sports cars, paying homage to car design in the early 20th century. Introduced in 2001, it was the first new design from the British carmaker in over fifty years.
Porsche 911 Turbo
$130,000
480 hp
Top Speed: 212 mph
Zero to 60: 3.7 seconds
Since 1964, Porsche's flagship 911 has been one of the most recognizable luxury sports cars in the world. The signature round frame and circular headlights mask the car's impressive power.
Bentley Continental GT
$179,200
552 hp
Top Speed: 206 mph
Zero to 60: 4.9 seconds
The Continental coupe line, introduced in 2003, helped Bentley reclaim its original reputation as a maker of refined yet powerful grand touring cars. The Continental, though heavier than most sports cars, can still surpass the 200 mile-per-hour mark.
Ferrari F430
$186,925
490 hp
Top Speed:196 mph
Zero to 60: 3.5 seconds
The latest in Ferrari's flagship F series, the F430 has been in production since 2004, when it replaced the F360. The car boasts an impressive 3.5-second zero-to-60 time.
Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG
$194,700
604 hp
Top Speed: 155 mph
Zero to 60: 4.2 seconds
The SL65 AMG is the most powerful to date in Mercedes popular SL line. It was one of several SL vehicles to get a design overhaul in 2008, making the car's front end look sleeker and the famed Mercedes emblem more prominent.
Spyker C8 Aileron
$219,990
500 hp
Top Speed: 187 mph
Zero to 60: 4.5 seconds
This 500 hp sports car is built by hand in the Netherlands. Spyker once built airplane engines but shifted its expertise to producing sports cars in 2000, and the company hasn't looked back since.
Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione
$225,000
450 hp
Top Speed: 193 mph
Zero to 60: 4.1 seconds
Alfa Romeo ended its 14-year absence in the American market by introducing the powerful 8C. Don't expect to see many on the highway though: Only 84 were shipped to the States.
Venturi Fetish
$400,000
250 hp (Electric)
Top Speed: 100 mph
Zero to 60: 4.9 seconds
Venturi, a Monaco-based manufacturer, was able to squeeze the equivalent of 250 hp into its electric-powered sports car. While its acceleration and speed pale in comparison to similarly priced cars, its carbon footprint is next to nothing.
Rolls Royce Phantom Coupe
$400,000
453 hp
Top Speed: 155 mph
Zero to 60: 5.6 seconds
Best known for supplying cars to British royalty and Arab millionaires, Rolls-Royce is as at home with stately sedans as it is with sportier coupes. The Phantom Coupe provides all the luxury of the four-door model, with more emphasis on performance and handling.
Mercedes-Benz SLR Roadster
$495,000
617 hp
Top Speed: 207 mph
Zero to 60: 3.6 seconds
While Mercedes offers an array of sports cars for $100,000 or more, the SLR McLaren is the company's crown jewel. It's developed jointly between Mercedes and British supercar maker McLaren, famous for producing one of the world's first $1 million street legal cars.
Koenigsegg CCX
$540,000
806 hp
Top Speed: 240 mph
Zero to 60: 3.2 seconds
The CCX is the brainchild of Swedish car design prodigy Christian Von Koenigsegg, who started his car company in 1994 at the ripe age of 22. Fifteen years later the CCX is one of the world's fastest— and most expensive—cars. In June, Koenigsegg led a consortium to buy Swedish-automaker Saab back from General Motors.
Saleen S7
$580,000
750 hp
Top Speed: 200+ mph
Zero to 60: 2.9 seconds
Rather than modifying Ford Mustangs or F-150s, Saleen decided earlier this decade to start making its own car from scratch, and the results are impressive. The carbon fiber shell is built by hand and the twin turbo engine rivals or bests the performance of its European peers.
Ascari A10
$650,000
625 hp
Top Speed: 220 mph
Zero to 60: 2.8 seconds
The A10, designed and built to celebrate the Ascari's 10th anniversary, is the British-based manufacturer's fastest car to date, capable of reaching 220 mph.
Shelby SSC Ultimate Aero
$654,000
1287 Horsepower
Top Speed: 257 MPH
0-60: 2.78 Seconds
The Ultimate Aero certainly lives up to its name, given its penchant for breaking speed records. In a 2007 test, the overwhelming 1287-hp engine propelled this supercar to 257.44 mph, confirmed by Guinness World Records as the fastest speed a production car has ever traveled.
Pagani Zonda F
$694,000
555 hp
Top Speed: 214 mph
Zero to 60: 3.6 seconds
This Italian supercar boasts one of the fastest times ever recorded on Germany's famed Nürburgring racetrack. Pagani will only produce 25 Zonda F's, which is noted for its improved aerodynamics compared to its predecessors.
Maybach 62S Landaulet
$1,380,000
604 hp
Top Speed: 155 mph
Zero to 60: 5.2 seconds
A car that you buy to be driven in, not to drive, the Landaulet features a spacious backseat with plush seats more appropriate for a living room, or a Gulfstream, than a car. Maybach's most expensive model also features a roof over the backseat that can retract in 16 seconds.
Bugatti Veyron
$1,400,000
1001 hp
Top Speed: 253 mph
Zero to 60: 2.5 seconds
The French-made sports car had no rivals when it came to hp or acceleration before the Zenvo ST1 burst on the scene. In all, only 200 models were produced, each with the ability to reach the 60 mile per hour threshold in 2.5 seconds. Unlike most other elite sports cars the Veyron's design features smooth curves not rigid lines.
Lamborghini Reventon
$1,500,000
650 hp
Top Speed: 221 mph
Zero to 60: 3.4 seconds
Lamborghini produced only 21 models of its most expensive car to date. The impressive 6.5 liter V-12 engine was put to the test when it raced, and nearly beat, a fighter plane in 2007. Each model has a gray carbon-fiber shell.
Zenvo ST1
$3,350,000 (rumored)
1104 hp
Top Speed: 233 mph
Zero to 60: 3 seconds
The supercar hailing from Denmark is rumored to be the most expensive car ever produced. The company has yet to release pricing information for its first-generation 2010 model. The ST1's powerful looks are matched by its potency under the hood, producing an astonishing 1104 horses.
Tesla Roadster
$101,500
Electric Engine
Top Speed: 125 mph
Zero to 60: 3.9 seconds
Tesla's impressive electric roadster reaches 60 mph in under four seconds. Normally such a feat can only be accomplished by gas-guzzling supercars, but Tesla's innovative engineering proved that an eco-friendly car need not lack in performance.
BMW M6 Coupe
$107,900
500 hp
Top Speed: 155 mph
Zero to 60: 4.6 seconds
Produced since 2005, BMW's second-generation M6 boasts an impressive 500 horses for just over $100,000. Lightweight materials like carbon fiber and aluminum help make up the car's stylish design.
Chevrolet Corvette ZR1
$113,970
638 hp
Top Speed: 205 mph
Zero to 60: 3.4 seconds
Chevy's Corvette, which has long been considered by many to be America's iconic sportscar, got an overhaul this year. Worry not purists: There are no drastic changes to the exterior, but the engine in the ZR1 ZR-3 is superior to its predecessors, making it the fastest and most powerful Corvette made in the car's 56-year history.
Audi R8
$114,200
420 hp
Top Speed: 187 mph
Zero to 60: 4.4 seconds
Introduced in 2006, the R8 is Audi's first attempt at entering the luxury supercar market. Its futuristic design famously earned it a prominent spot in the science fiction blockbuster I Robot
Maserati GranTurismo
$117,500
405 hp
Top Speed: 177 mph
Zero to 60: 5.2 seconds
The nearly century-old Italian carmaker recently introduced an automatic version of its popular sports car, which has been well-received among automotive critics.
Aston Martin Vantage
$119,500
420 hp
Top Speed: 175 mph
Zero to 60: 4.9 seconds
Touted by automotive critics as one of the most elegant cars for the price, the Vantage also is built on performance. This year's model saw boosts in torque, hp, and engine size.
Panoz Esperante GTS
$128,319
305 hp
Top Speed: 155 mph
Zero to 60: 4.9 seconds
The Esperante has racing in its blood. Panoz is one of the most recognizable names in racing circuits around the world. The American-made car is designed not only for the road, but is also track-ready, taking part in several circuits nationwide.
Morgan Aero 8
$129,950
367 hp
Top Speed: 170 mph
Zero to 60: 4.5 seconds
The Aero 8's design is unique among luxury sports cars, paying homage to car design in the early 20th century. Introduced in 2001, it was the first new design from the British carmaker in over fifty years.
Porsche 911 Turbo
$130,000
480 hp
Top Speed: 212 mph
Zero to 60: 3.7 seconds
Since 1964, Porsche's flagship 911 has been one of the most recognizable luxury sports cars in the world. The signature round frame and circular headlights mask the car's impressive power.
Bentley Continental GT
$179,200
552 hp
Top Speed: 206 mph
Zero to 60: 4.9 seconds
The Continental coupe line, introduced in 2003, helped Bentley reclaim its original reputation as a maker of refined yet powerful grand touring cars. The Continental, though heavier than most sports cars, can still surpass the 200 mile-per-hour mark.
Ferrari F430
$186,925
490 hp
Top Speed:196 mph
Zero to 60: 3.5 seconds
The latest in Ferrari's flagship F series, the F430 has been in production since 2004, when it replaced the F360. The car boasts an impressive 3.5-second zero-to-60 time.
Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG
$194,700
604 hp
Top Speed: 155 mph
Zero to 60: 4.2 seconds
The SL65 AMG is the most powerful to date in Mercedes popular SL line. It was one of several SL vehicles to get a design overhaul in 2008, making the car's front end look sleeker and the famed Mercedes emblem more prominent.
Spyker C8 Aileron
$219,990
500 hp
Top Speed: 187 mph
Zero to 60: 4.5 seconds
This 500 hp sports car is built by hand in the Netherlands. Spyker once built airplane engines but shifted its expertise to producing sports cars in 2000, and the company hasn't looked back since.
Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione
$225,000
450 hp
Top Speed: 193 mph
Zero to 60: 4.1 seconds
Alfa Romeo ended its 14-year absence in the American market by introducing the powerful 8C. Don't expect to see many on the highway though: Only 84 were shipped to the States.
Venturi Fetish
$400,000
250 hp (Electric)
Top Speed: 100 mph
Zero to 60: 4.9 seconds
Venturi, a Monaco-based manufacturer, was able to squeeze the equivalent of 250 hp into its electric-powered sports car. While its acceleration and speed pale in comparison to similarly priced cars, its carbon footprint is next to nothing.
Rolls Royce Phantom Coupe
$400,000
453 hp
Top Speed: 155 mph
Zero to 60: 5.6 seconds
Best known for supplying cars to British royalty and Arab millionaires, Rolls-Royce is as at home with stately sedans as it is with sportier coupes. The Phantom Coupe provides all the luxury of the four-door model, with more emphasis on performance and handling.
Mercedes-Benz SLR Roadster
$495,000
617 hp
Top Speed: 207 mph
Zero to 60: 3.6 seconds
While Mercedes offers an array of sports cars for $100,000 or more, the SLR McLaren is the company's crown jewel. It's developed jointly between Mercedes and British supercar maker McLaren, famous for producing one of the world's first $1 million street legal cars.
Koenigsegg CCX
$540,000
806 hp
Top Speed: 240 mph
Zero to 60: 3.2 seconds
The CCX is the brainchild of Swedish car design prodigy Christian Von Koenigsegg, who started his car company in 1994 at the ripe age of 22. Fifteen years later the CCX is one of the world's fastest— and most expensive—cars. In June, Koenigsegg led a consortium to buy Swedish-automaker Saab back from General Motors.
Saleen S7
$580,000
750 hp
Top Speed: 200+ mph
Zero to 60: 2.9 seconds
Rather than modifying Ford Mustangs or F-150s, Saleen decided earlier this decade to start making its own car from scratch, and the results are impressive. The carbon fiber shell is built by hand and the twin turbo engine rivals or bests the performance of its European peers.
Ascari A10
$650,000
625 hp
Top Speed: 220 mph
Zero to 60: 2.8 seconds
The A10, designed and built to celebrate the Ascari's 10th anniversary, is the British-based manufacturer's fastest car to date, capable of reaching 220 mph.
Shelby SSC Ultimate Aero
$654,000
1287 Horsepower
Top Speed: 257 MPH
0-60: 2.78 Seconds
The Ultimate Aero certainly lives up to its name, given its penchant for breaking speed records. In a 2007 test, the overwhelming 1287-hp engine propelled this supercar to 257.44 mph, confirmed by Guinness World Records as the fastest speed a production car has ever traveled.
Pagani Zonda F
$694,000
555 hp
Top Speed: 214 mph
Zero to 60: 3.6 seconds
This Italian supercar boasts one of the fastest times ever recorded on Germany's famed Nürburgring racetrack. Pagani will only produce 25 Zonda F's, which is noted for its improved aerodynamics compared to its predecessors.
Maybach 62S Landaulet
$1,380,000
604 hp
Top Speed: 155 mph
Zero to 60: 5.2 seconds
A car that you buy to be driven in, not to drive, the Landaulet features a spacious backseat with plush seats more appropriate for a living room, or a Gulfstream, than a car. Maybach's most expensive model also features a roof over the backseat that can retract in 16 seconds.
Bugatti Veyron
$1,400,000
1001 hp
Top Speed: 253 mph
Zero to 60: 2.5 seconds
The French-made sports car had no rivals when it came to hp or acceleration before the Zenvo ST1 burst on the scene. In all, only 200 models were produced, each with the ability to reach the 60 mile per hour threshold in 2.5 seconds. Unlike most other elite sports cars the Veyron's design features smooth curves not rigid lines.
Lamborghini Reventon
$1,500,000
650 hp
Top Speed: 221 mph
Zero to 60: 3.4 seconds
Lamborghini produced only 21 models of its most expensive car to date. The impressive 6.5 liter V-12 engine was put to the test when it raced, and nearly beat, a fighter plane in 2007. Each model has a gray carbon-fiber shell.
Zenvo ST1
$3,350,000 (rumored)
1104 hp
Top Speed: 233 mph
Zero to 60: 3 seconds
The supercar hailing from Denmark is rumored to be the most expensive car ever produced. The company has yet to release pricing information for its first-generation 2010 model. The ST1's powerful looks are matched by its potency under the hood, producing an astonishing 1104 horses.
08-05-2009, 06:28 PM
#496
Senior Member
Thread Starter
Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe: CL No More
Mercedes-Benz recently lifted the cover off of its 2010 E-Class Coupe, deciding along the way to ditch CLK-Class designation in the process. Now it appears the CL moniker, in use since 1998, will more than likely be following the CLK to the nearest retirement castle. When the large, luxurious CL receives its next facelift, expect it to revert to its previous label as the S-Class Coupe.
As far as changes go, from the looks of the spy shots, they will be quite minor given the S-Class' still-fresh design. The car will reportedly receive new headlights with LED driving lights and relocated indicators that should now be found at the bottom of the unit instead of in the corners. In addition, expect redesigned bumpers for both regular and AMG models -- a classier design for regular models, a more aggressive one for AMGs -- and a new, more upright grille with a single chrome bar similar to that of the SL. Taillights may be replaced with LED units as well. Engine options should remain largely the same, though both the 5.5L V-8 and 5.5L twin-turbo V-12 could be in line for tweaks designed increase horsepower and improve fuel economy.
Given the scant camouflage on this prototype, it seems that the S-Class Coupe is all but ready for primetime. A 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show debut in the fall is a likely proposition, although it could be a surprise attendee alongside the new E-Class sedan and coupe at the upcoming Geneva show.
Mercedes-Benz recently lifted the cover off of its 2010 E-Class Coupe, deciding along the way to ditch CLK-Class designation in the process. Now it appears the CL moniker, in use since 1998, will more than likely be following the CLK to the nearest retirement castle. When the large, luxurious CL receives its next facelift, expect it to revert to its previous label as the S-Class Coupe.
As far as changes go, from the looks of the spy shots, they will be quite minor given the S-Class' still-fresh design. The car will reportedly receive new headlights with LED driving lights and relocated indicators that should now be found at the bottom of the unit instead of in the corners. In addition, expect redesigned bumpers for both regular and AMG models -- a classier design for regular models, a more aggressive one for AMGs -- and a new, more upright grille with a single chrome bar similar to that of the SL. Taillights may be replaced with LED units as well. Engine options should remain largely the same, though both the 5.5L V-8 and 5.5L twin-turbo V-12 could be in line for tweaks designed increase horsepower and improve fuel economy.
Given the scant camouflage on this prototype, it seems that the S-Class Coupe is all but ready for primetime. A 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show debut in the fall is a likely proposition, although it could be a surprise attendee alongside the new E-Class sedan and coupe at the upcoming Geneva show.
08-08-2009, 11:30 PM
#497
Senior Member
Thread Starter
MEC Design Bodykit For Mercedes-Benz CL-Class
In Mercedes tuning news, MEC Design has just unveiled a new bodykit for the W216 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class. Entitled the 2FACE Bodykit, the CL styling package features a new front apron with driving and fog lights, side skirts with or without LED lighting, a new vented rear apron, and last but not least, a three-piece rear spoiler.
Of course, to truly set your Mercedes CL apart from the rest of the pack, you can give it the full MEC Design treatment (as seen above and below), ranging from matte black paintwork and blackened lighting all the way up to matching matte black rims.
Personally, give me a standard CL with an AMG sport package and I'm a happy man.
In Mercedes tuning news, MEC Design has just unveiled a new bodykit for the W216 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class. Entitled the 2FACE Bodykit, the CL styling package features a new front apron with driving and fog lights, side skirts with or without LED lighting, a new vented rear apron, and last but not least, a three-piece rear spoiler.
Of course, to truly set your Mercedes CL apart from the rest of the pack, you can give it the full MEC Design treatment (as seen above and below), ranging from matte black paintwork and blackened lighting all the way up to matching matte black rims.
Personally, give me a standard CL with an AMG sport package and I'm a happy man.
08-13-2009, 11:22 AM
#498
Senior Member
Thread Starter
Mercedes-Benz S-Class Named Top Luxury Car Again
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class has been crowned as the best luxury car on the market for the fourth successive year by Auto Express.
At the Auto Express New Car Awards, the car collected the Best Luxury Car accolade, thanks to its class-leading innovative technology and top levels of style and comfort.
The latest generation of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class is set to be available to UK fans later this year.
At the forefront of the range is the S 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, which has improved fuel consumption by nine per cent to 37.2 miles per gallon, while emissions have been cut to 199g/km – a 21 per cent reduction.
Auto Express Editor in Chief David Johns said: "Mercedes-Benz redefined what we expect from the luxury car class with the S-Class, it still stands out like a beacon four years after its launch.
"The outstanding quality, effortless performance and superb refinement of the S-Class just couldn’t be matched by its rivals, old or new."
Dermot Kelly, Managing Director of Mercedes-Benz Cars, added that despite high levels being set over the past four years, things are "going to get even better" in the future.
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class has been crowned as the best luxury car on the market for the fourth successive year by Auto Express.
At the Auto Express New Car Awards, the car collected the Best Luxury Car accolade, thanks to its class-leading innovative technology and top levels of style and comfort.
The latest generation of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class is set to be available to UK fans later this year.
At the forefront of the range is the S 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, which has improved fuel consumption by nine per cent to 37.2 miles per gallon, while emissions have been cut to 199g/km – a 21 per cent reduction.
Auto Express Editor in Chief David Johns said: "Mercedes-Benz redefined what we expect from the luxury car class with the S-Class, it still stands out like a beacon four years after its launch.
"The outstanding quality, effortless performance and superb refinement of the S-Class just couldn’t be matched by its rivals, old or new."
Dermot Kelly, Managing Director of Mercedes-Benz Cars, added that despite high levels being set over the past four years, things are "going to get even better" in the future.
08-15-2009, 04:17 PM
#499
Senior Member
Thread Starter
Mercedes-Benz S-Class: Best Saloon Car in the World
All-round excellence means the Mercedes-Benz S-Class is arguably the best saloon car in the world.
In a Sunday Times review, Jason Dawe revisited the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, the new version of which first went on sale in the UK in 2006.
While he notes that the Mercedes-Benz S-Class has been regularly styled as the finest example of the saloon car in production over the years, he suggests the latest model may just live up to the hype.
User-friendly technology upgrades, new exterior and interior styling, finely-tuned engines and proven fuel economy of 34 miles per gallon make for a car that is hard to beat, Dawe says.
"With proven reliability, distinctive looks and a relatively modest price, not only is the latest Mercedes-Benz S-Class the best saloon car in the world, it is now among the best value," he wrote in the newspaper.
All-round excellence means the Mercedes-Benz S-Class is arguably the best saloon car in the world.
In a Sunday Times review, Jason Dawe revisited the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, the new version of which first went on sale in the UK in 2006.
While he notes that the Mercedes-Benz S-Class has been regularly styled as the finest example of the saloon car in production over the years, he suggests the latest model may just live up to the hype.
User-friendly technology upgrades, new exterior and interior styling, finely-tuned engines and proven fuel economy of 34 miles per gallon make for a car that is hard to beat, Dawe says.
"With proven reliability, distinctive looks and a relatively modest price, not only is the latest Mercedes-Benz S-Class the best saloon car in the world, it is now among the best value," he wrote in the newspaper.
08-19-2009, 08:39 PM
#500
Senior Member
Thread Starter
2010 Mercedes-Benz S 600 Pullman
After the Stuttgart-flagship got a new make-up at the middle of its life-cycle, it was obvious that other models under the S-Klasse range would receive the same aesthetique treatment. The most recent model to undergo a facelift is the ultrahigh-luxury, extended-wheelbase limousine badged S 600 Pullman. It has been recently spotted by spy photographers in the form of a test prototype.
Although it was officially introduced only one year ago, the Pullman will enter in 2010 in new clothes. The visual modifications will be identical to those on the recently-revealed FL W221:redesigned headlights and rear lights featuring LED-technology, retouched front air intakes & rear bumper, and for a more exclusive look, lots of chrome stripes surrounding the whole car. The interior will benefit from the addition of the finest materials:leather upholstery, wood and metal trims. The car will also be garnished with the latest technologies in communication and security that made their debut on the FL W221 and on the S-Guard model, whereas its (royal/high-status/wealthy) passengers will travel in complete relaxation embraced by the already famous pleasure plants installed inside the car:the multicontour seats, providing ventilation, heating and many massage functions to make you feel 100% pampered, while enjoying a glass of the finest French wine.
After the Stuttgart-flagship got a new make-up at the middle of its life-cycle, it was obvious that other models under the S-Klasse range would receive the same aesthetique treatment. The most recent model to undergo a facelift is the ultrahigh-luxury, extended-wheelbase limousine badged S 600 Pullman. It has been recently spotted by spy photographers in the form of a test prototype.
Although it was officially introduced only one year ago, the Pullman will enter in 2010 in new clothes. The visual modifications will be identical to those on the recently-revealed FL W221:redesigned headlights and rear lights featuring LED-technology, retouched front air intakes & rear bumper, and for a more exclusive look, lots of chrome stripes surrounding the whole car. The interior will benefit from the addition of the finest materials:leather upholstery, wood and metal trims. The car will also be garnished with the latest technologies in communication and security that made their debut on the FL W221 and on the S-Guard model, whereas its (royal/high-status/wealthy) passengers will travel in complete relaxation embraced by the already famous pleasure plants installed inside the car:the multicontour seats, providing ventilation, heating and many massage functions to make you feel 100% pampered, while enjoying a glass of the finest French wine.
