Author: Donald B. Smith

FYI: Discover the charm of the classic 1989 Audi 200 Turbo Quattro Avant, an unassuming powerhouse from the past. A Blast from the Past: The Versatile Audi 200 Turbo Quattro Avant The 1989 Audi 200 Turbo Quattro Avant stands out as a distinctive entry in the automotive world. With a 2.2L turbocharged engine producing 217 horsepower, this wagon defied expectations from an era when Audi hadn’t yet become synonymous with speed. Weighing around 3,600 pounds, it offered a surprisingly agile driving experience, especially compared to its heavier American counterparts that lacked this mix of power and elegance. Performance and Aesthetics…

FYI: Despite the rise of aluminum in vehicle construction, iron engine blocks continue to be favored by some automakers for their strength and cost-effectiveness. The Enduring Appeal of Iron Engine Blocks The automotive world constantly evolves with innovations like aluminum engine blocks gaining traction. Yet, iron engine blocks maintain their place, especially among brands such as Dodge and Ram, known for vehicles requiring robust engines. The Aluminum Revolution in Automotives The shift towards aluminum was marked by Heinrich Durkopp’s introduction of an aluminum-body car at the Berlin Motor Show. This shift gained momentum when Ford utilized aluminum for truck beds,…

FYI: At the Goodwood Festival, an unexpected roar took center stage. Not from the typical hypercars or F1 machines, but from Ryan Tuerck’s 1966 Toyota Stout Drift Truck, transformed into a high-octane drifting phenomenon. ### Toyota Stout: The Unexpected Showstopper In a festival known for sleek hypercars, the 1966 Toyota Stout Drift Truck made a jaw-dropping entrance. Under Tuerck’s hands, this once-humble pickup became Goodwood’s ultimate alarm clock. What began with tire-scorching donuts in front of Goodwood House turned into a dramatic sideways dash through the legendary flintwall chicane. ### From Modest Beginnings to Powerhouse Originally known as the Toyota…

FYI: Experience the breezy allure of summer with Ina Garten’s curated Mini Cooper playlist, transporting you into the quintessential Barefoot Contessa vibe. Ina Garten’s Mini Cooper Summer Soundtrack Transform your summer drives with the perfect soundtrack curated by none other than Ina Garten, culinary icon and host of the "Barefoot Contessa." Known for her warm and approachable style, Garten offers a playlist that encapsulates the essence of a carefree day in the Hamptons. Summer Vibes with a Classic Playlist Imagine cruising with the top down in a Mini Cooper, sporting a chic bob haircut, and donning your favorite oversized button-down…

FYI: Lanzante unveils the 95-59, a tribute to McLaren’s legacy that combines cutting-edge technology with a nod to history. — ### Lanzante: A Legacy with McLaren Though Lanzante might be a fresh name in American circles, the company boasts half a century of experience in handling high-end historical and modern exotic vehicles. Its history is intertwined with McLaren, as evidenced by its notable participation in the 24 Hours of Le Mans with a team sponsored by Koksai Kaihatsu. This venture brought the McLaren F1 to the forefront in 1995. ### Introducing the Lanzante 95-59 Lanzante recently unveiled the 95-59, a…

FYI: Tesla’s decision to delay its annual shareholder meeting has sparked curiosity and speculation as the company faces challenges and opportunities. Tesla’s Surprising Delay in Shareholder Meeting Tesla, despite being one of the most valuable companies with a market capitalization close to $1 trillion, has made headlines by postponing its annual shareholder meeting to November. Established companies typically adhere strictly to such schedules, which makes Tesla’s move particularly noteworthy. What’s Happening at Tesla? Several factors might explain Tesla’s decision: Upcoming Financial Reports: Tesla plans to announce its third-quarter earnings at the end of October. By rescheduling the meeting, the company…

FYI: Porsche has unveiled two new Black Edition models, enhancing the Taycan and Cayenne with striking designs and advanced features. Discover what sets these vehicles apart. Porsche Unveils Striking Black Edition Models for Taycan and Cayenne In an exciting development, Porsche has announced two new Black Edition models, enhancing the Taycan electric car and the luxurious Cayenne SUV. These editions feature striking dark accents, advanced equipment, and notable performance upgrades. Set to debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, deliveries in the UK are scheduled from July 10 to 13, 2025. The Alluring Dark Aesthetic The Black Edition models make…

FYI: A recent expedition could unlock the mystery of Amelia Earhart’s disappearance, with potential evidence lying beneath the waters of Nikumaroro Island. Amelia Earhart’s Plane: A Remarkable Discovery Awaits In a significant development, Purdue University has announced a new expedition set for this November to dive into the secrets beneath the marine landscape of Nikumaroro Island. This mission aims to confirm whether the remnants of Amelia Earhart’s Lockheed Electra 10E are buried beneath the ocean floor, a possible breakthrough inspired by satellite imagery from a decade ago. Previous Investigations and Discoveries This isn’t the first time Nikumaroro has been the…

FYI: A 6.2-liter LS engine achieves a remarkable 268,000 miles before a dramatic failure reveals potential pitfalls and lessons. — ### Inside the 268,000-Mile 6.2 LS Engine Engines breaking down isn’t just a misfortune for car owners but a golden opportunity for automotive experts to delve into the mechanics and learn. Recently, a 6.2-liter LS engine did just that after covering an impressive 268,000 miles, providing insights into maintaining and understanding engine durability. ### The Resilient LS Engine The LS engine series, known for its affordability and reliability, has been a staple in automotive builds since its 1997 debut. With…

FYI: Discover the American cars capturing the hearts of drivers nationwide, from classic models to modern innovations. American Cars Worth Owning in 2025 The longstanding belief that American cars lag behind their foreign counterparts is being challenged. Readers shared their recommendations for American-made vehicles that deserve attention, showcasing both reliability and innovation. Chevrolet and Buick: Budget-Friendly Options Chevrolet Trucks and the Buick Envista are gaining praise for their affordability and style. However, their long-term reliability remains to be seen. Despite their budget-friendly appeal, these models stand out in a crowded market. Ford Maverick: The Affordable Choice The Ford Maverick Hybrid…