Wikicars - User contributions [en]

Ferrari 288 GTO Evoluzione

2009-02-14T03:20:13Z

64.53.235.64:

Ferrari 288 GTO Evoluzione

2009-02-14T03:19:13Z

64.53.235.64:

Honda Prelude

2008-12-07T01:58:41Z

64.53.235.64:

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:01prelude.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Honda Prelude'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Honda]]
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| aka
| {{{aka (Type here, not up there)}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production
| 1979–2001
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class
| [[Sports coupe]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style
| 2-door [[coupe]]
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length
| {{{length - type here}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width
| {{{Width - type here}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top;
| Height
| {{{Height - type here}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase
| {{{wheelbase - type here}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight
| {{{Weight - you get the point}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmission
| {{{transmission + drive}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engine
| {{{engine}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power
| {{{68-217HP}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar
| [[Toyota Celica]]<br>[[Acura Integra]]<br>[[Mitsubishi Eclipse]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Designer
| {{{Designer (lead designer if it was a team effort)}}}
|}

The '''Honda Prelude''' was a [[front wheel drive]] [[Straight-4|I4]]-engined [[coupe]] that was manufactured by [[Honda]] between 1979 and 2001. It spanned five generations of cars but was discontinued upon the release of the fourth-generation [[Acura Integra]] in Japan in late 2001.

The Prelude's perennial competitor has been the [[Toyota Celica]], another I4-powered coupe introduced several years prior to the Prelude. Throughout the 1980s, it was challenged by the [[Nissan Silvia]], [[Isuzu Impulse]], [[Mitsubishi FTO]], [[Mitsubishi Cordia]] (later the [[Mitsubishi Eclipse|Eclipse]]), and the [[Mazda MX-6]].

==Styles and Major Options==
===Convertibles===
Through the years, several [[Germany|German]] companies have converted Preludes into convertibles. Currently, there have been convertibles made from the first, second and fourth generation Preludes.

[[image:tropic_s.jpg|left|thumb|A first generation Prelude convertible]]
First generation Preludes were modified by a company called Tropic Design, located in Germany. In all, they modified 47 Preludes, most of which were exported to Japan and the US. Very few have remained in Europe, initially all in Germany. Some have been sold over time to nearby countries, at least one to the [[Netherlands]] and one to [[Belgium]].

[[image:ab_cab_02.jpg|right|thumb|Second generation Prelude convertible]]
Second generation Preludes were modified by another German company; some 100 Preludes were modified. No [[Overhead Camshafts|DOHC]] engine-equipped models have been known to be converted into convertibles, however. 3 versions were available, a basic version, one which had more luxurious options, and one which added a body kit, increasing its aesthetics.

[[image:prelude93n.jpg|right|thumb|Fourth generation Prelude convertible]]
Of the fourth generation Preludes, only some 15 were modified into a convertible by German company Honda-Autohaus Manfred Ernst. No details are known about the engine types and other specifics. Since only 15 were ever made, they are assumed by many to be custom-built.

==Generations==
===Fifth Generation (1997-2001)===
[[Image:bb5bb9chassis.jpg|right|thumb|Fifth generation Honda Prelude unibody]]

The fifth generation of the Honda Prelude saw enhancements over the fourth generation, including new body styling and handling characteristics. In 2001 the Prelude was discontinued.

The fifth-generation retained an [[FF layout]] with an independent front suspension. The vehicle utilized a 63/37 weight distribution. All fifth-generation Honda Preludes came with 16 inch [[aluminum]] alloy wheels with all-season 205/50 R16 87V tires, except the '''Xi''' (14 inch steel wheels with full covers and 195/65 R14 89H tires) and '''Si''' (15 inch aluminum alloy wheels with all-season 195/60 R15 88H tires.) on which aluminum alloy rims came as a dealer option. Unlike the USDM Preludes, JDM Preludes came with rear windshield wipers (except the '''Xi''').

The fifth-generation Prelude marked a return to the body style of the late [[1980s]], or third generation, in an attempt to curb slumping sales of the fourth-generation body style. The fifth-generation was assembled and distributed to many parts of the world, including Japan, the UK, the US, and Germany, among others. All models and trims stayed within the BB-chassis code (BB5-BB9) and housed either the [[Honda H engine|H-series engine]] or F-series motor. Models available to the Japanese market included: '''SiR''' (10.6), '''Xi''' (8.8), Si (9.2), SiR S-spec (11.0) and the Type S (11.0). The US received a Base model and Type SH. Canada received the Base model, SE, and Type SH. Europe received the 2.0i (9.5) and 2.2 '''VTi''' VTEC (10.0). Australia received the Si (10.0) and the VTi-R (10.0). All fifth gen. Preludes came with an H22A ( ) except: Xi (F22B), Si (F22B), 2.0i (F20A), Si (F22Z). BB5 was the Xi, and Si-2WS trim. BB6 was the SiR-2WS trim, SiR S-spec, Type S, Base model, Type SH, SE, 2.2 VTi VTEC-2WS trim. BB7 was the Si-4WS trim. BB8 was the SiR-4WS trim, and 2.2 VTi VTEC-4WS trim. All Preludes had a fuel tank capacity of 60 L (15.9 US gal).

[[Image:Y-59M.jpg|right|thumb|250px|Photograph of a Sparkle Yellow Metallic (Y-59M) Honda Prelude with optional Motegi wheels.]]

One version of the fifth-generation Prelude, the Type S, was only available in Japan. It was equipped with the 2.2 L [[Honda H engine|H22A]], featuring [[VTEC]] and producing 220 PS (162 kW, 217 [[HP|hp]]) @ 7200 [[revolutions per minute|rpm]] and 22.5 [[kilogram-force|kgf]]·m (221 N·m, 163 lb·ft) @ 6500 [[revolutions per minute|rpm]]. With a compression ratio of 11.0:1, 87.0 mm bore x 90.7 mm stroke and the VTEC-valve timing, lift and duration were adjusted to 12.2 mm|11.2 mm (intake|exhaust). Honda also overhauled the air box and replaced it with a more efficient design that is often referred to as ''Dynamic Chambering,'' along with an increased throttle body design bored to 62 mm (as opposed to the previous 60 mm). The exhaust system also was treated to a redesign as well, where the pipe design became a more cylindrical shape rather an oval shape. The 3-way catalytic converter was also increased in size, as well as the exhaust piping from 50.8 mm (2.00 in) to 57 mm (2.25 in) (tToV). With the increased power output, the suspension was equally enhanced with 15 inch front ventilated discs and 14 inch rear discs. The fifth gen. curb weight was 1,310 kg (2,882 lb) and had a ground clearance of 0.14 m (5.5 in.). Unlike the SiR S-spec that had an LSD, the Type S acquired the technology from Honda that is known as the [[Active Torque Transfer Syste
m]] (ATTS) (other terms that may be seen elsewhere that may come up are: DYCS [direct yaw control system], [[active yaw control]] system, Active Electronic Limited Slip Differential [misnomer.]) The gearing on the Type S matches all other fifth-generation Preludes that had a manual transmission except for the 5-speed 2.2 VTi VTEC and had a FD: 4.266. The Type S had an Active Control [[Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS)|ABS]] system, different from the others which had the standard [[Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS)|ABS]] systems. The interior featured leather laced with red stitching. Manufacturer styling options including seat lettering. The exterior styling of fifth generation Preludes was standardized for most models. All had a sunroof except for the '''Type S''' model.

[[Image:ATTSUnit.jpg|right|thumb|250px|The [[Active Torque Transfer System]] (ATTS) as used in the fifth generation Prelude.]]

There was only one other car that housed the H-series, and it would be the last of its kind until the presentation of the K-series. The Accord Type R/Rx/Torneo (or the JDM version of the name more commonly known as the Honda Accord Euro R) housed the last line of a more refined H-series motor, which lasted from around 1998 to 2002, until the exterior was revamped and the K-series was introduced.

The USDM fifth-generation Preludes also saw enhancements in the engine, with the full line now offering VTEC H22A4 engines, an evolution of the H22A1 with higher flowing heads, making 195 [[HP|hp]] (198 PS, 143 kW) @ 7000 rpm and 156 lb·ft (21.8 kg·m, 212 N·m) @ 5250 rpm from 1997 to 1999, and the same torque readings with 200 [[HP|hp]] (203 PS, 147 kW) @ 7000 rpm from 1999 to 2001 with a compression ratio of 10.0:1. The USDM fifth-generation had a '''Type SH''' ("Super-Handling") trim which featured the [[Active Torque Transfer System]] (ATTS), and, along with the 5-speed base model, shared the exact same gearing from the '''Type S''' and '''SiR-S''' spec trims in Japan (in which the Type SH transmission is the exact same as the Type S.) This system allowed Honda to overcome the limitations of front wheel drive somewhat, and in 1997, ''[[Car and Driver]]'' named the Prelude Type SH the "best-handling car under $30,000."

===Fourth Generation (1992-1996)===
[[Image:PB165355 ben prelude lg.jpg|left|thumb|A fourth generation Prelude on an [[autocross]] course]]
In 1991, there was a major overhaul of the fourth generation Prelude, released outside of Japan in 1992. The car maintained a very close to perfect 58% front and 42% rear weight distribution. The four [[wheel]] [[steering]] system was changed to an electronic version and the [[engine]] was increased in size from 2.1 L to 2.2 L for the base "S" model ([[Overhead Camshafts|SOHC]] F22A1 engine, 135 [[HP|hp]]  (101 kW) @ 5200 rpm, 142 ft·lbf (193 N·m) @ 4000 [[rpm]]) and "[[Si-VTEC]]" model ([[Overhead Camshafts|DOHC]] VTEC H22A, 190 [[HP|hp]] (147 kW) @ 6800 [[rpm]], 158 ft·lbf (214 N·m) @ 5500 rpm), with 2.3 L for the "Si" ([[Overhead Camshafts|DOHC]] H23A1, 160 [[HP|hp]] (119 kW) @ 5800 [[rpm]], 156 ft·lbf (212 N·m) @ 5300 rpm). In the UK, there was also a 2.0i model that was rated around 125 bhp (93 kW). 1993 was the last year that the "Si-VTEC" name was used, and starting in 1994 it shortened to just "[[VTEC]]" and stayed that way throughout the rest of the generation.

This model also marked the end for the pop-up headlights and a lot of other design features that had become "''Prelude Standard''". The rear end was no longer flat and wide; but wide, rounded and fairly high in comparison. The front fascia of the car became wider with fixed headlights. The glass sunroof made way for a steel sliding roof which no longer retracted into the car but extended out and over it. This in effect creates a spoiler which reduced air noise when driving.

The dashboard was generally accepted as the extraordinary feature of this model. The dashboard stretched from left to right in the car, being equal in height over the full length and housing all dials and indicators. The light blue backlighting introduced in the third generation was continued. Later models (1994 and on) also featured translucent speedometer and tachometer needles. In Japan, there was also a in radio bezel television set available as a standard option; as a result, many enthusiasts have tried to find the Gathers television set. The Japanese version of the Prelude also had certain options which were never found in state-bound models but did show up in the Canadian market. For instance, the Japanese Prelude had power folding, as well as a rear windscreen wiper while the Canadian market had heated mirrors. The fourth generation Prelude also shares suspension components with the fifth (94-97) and sixth (98-02) generation [[Honda Accord]].

Japanese Prelude Only Options:

15" Five Star Blades,
Automatic Head Light System,
Automatic Wiper System,
Baby Seat,
Bumper Pole,
Bumper Sensors,
Daylight Running Lights,
Digital Climate Control,
Drivers Side Interior Panel Rear View Mirror,
DSP Special Edition Dash Speaker,
Gathers Equipment: AM/FM Radio w/ CD Player, Equalizer, Television GPS Set, CD Changer, and Speakers,
Half Mast Antennae,
Power Folding Mirrors,
Rear Bumper (Has No Bumper Lens) - Not Required in Japan,
Rear Deck Air Refiner,
Seat Head Rest Pads,
Stanley Amber Fog Lamps,
Stanley Fender Side Markers,
Stanley One Piece Head Lights (Black or Chrome),
Typus Winter Roof Rack,
Zebra Print Floor Mats,

===Third Generation Post Facelift (1990-1991)===
[[image:PreludeSistates.jpg|left|thumb|A Rare 1990 SiStates Prelude]]
[[image:PreludeSistates2.jpg|right|thumb|SiStates Prelude Rear Badge]]
In 1990 the [[Honda]] Prelude was given a facelift from the previous third generation (1987-1989) styling to a newer look. This facelift featured slightly smaller tail lights than the previous model, with clear indicators instead of the previous yellow indicators. The rear bumper was made slightly taller in the top section to accomodate the smaller tailights, and although it doesn't look like it the bootlid was changed above the lights as the upper part of the newer lights is actually smaller than the previous model. The front bumper on the 1990 Preludes was also changed to feature clear indicators and park lamps and different styling. Some interior panels were redesigned, including the dash bezel, both the upper cover and the surround with the sunroof switches, etc on it. The door cards recieved a slightly different style of electric window switch plates. On some models however there are some different combinations of pre and post facelift styling inside, e.g. the EX model retained the older style door cards with the rectangular door handle, and older style window switch surrounds, and didn't have speaker covers in the door cards regardless of pre and post facelift.

[[Honda]] in 1990, released the ''Prelude SiStates''. This car was on a limited production line and very few were built, it featured 4WS (Four [[wheel]] [[steering]]), [[ABS|antilock brakes]], limited slip differential, leather wrapped steering wheel and gear shift leaver, extra sound deadening on firewall and hood, rear wiper and washer, and many more features that were usually options. It also featured a unique B21A [[engine]] that was only produced for the SiStates. This model was only available in Japan for the JDM (Japanese Domestic Market).

===Third Generation (1988-1989)===
[[image:3rdgenprelude.jpg|left|thumb|A third-generation facelift Honda Prelude on a road course]] [[image:3rdGenPreludeWithH22.jpg|right|thumb|A third generation Honda Prelude with an H22 swap]]
The third generation Prelude was similar to the second generation, however it gained [[four wheel steering]] on some models, as well as a 2.0 L [[Overhead Camshafts|SOHC]] carburated engine, an optional [[Honda B20A engine|B20A]] [[Overhead Camshafts|DOHC]] EFI engine, or a slightly-larger B21A1 in 1990 and 1991.

The four wheel [[steering]] system on the third generation prelude was an extraordinary piece of engineering in itself. [[As of 2006]], it is the only four wheel steering system on a production car that is entirely mechanical in its design; that is, there is always a direct mechanical connection between the steering wheel and the rear wheels. This means the four wheel steering-equipped Prelude was intuitive to drive, unlike most other four wheel steering systems in which the rear wheels were controlled indirectly by a computer.

The third generation Prelude also had some new external designs worth mentioning. The hoodline was designed to be the lowest hoodline of any [[front wheel drive]] car in the world, allowing for better forward visibility. The drag resistance was at of high-speed stability.

Another unique structural element of the third generation Prelude was the high-strength metal used in the 6 roof pillars. The roof pillars were so slim that all-around visibility was amazingly clear for 326°. Some call this Prelude the "baby [[Honda NSX|NSX]]" due to some common design cues between the two cars, such as the excellent forward visibility via a low hoodline, a front end resemblance, the suspension attributes (great handling with a smooth ride), the taillight, front turn signal and fog light designs were also changed in the 1990 and 1991 models.

In 1987, ''Road & Track'' published a test summary that shows the 1988 [[Honda]] Prelude 2.0Si 4WS outslalomed every car of that year, including all [[Lamborghini]]s, [[Ferrari]]s, and [[Porsche]]s. It went through the slalom at 65.5 mph, which was amazing in those days. For reference, the 1988 [[Chevrolet Corvette|Corvette]] did the same at 64.9 mph.

The Prelude was ''Wheels'' magazine's Car of the Year for 1987.

===Second Generation (1983-1987)===
[[image:prelude86c.jpg|left|thumb|1986 Honda Prelude]]
The second generation Prelude was released in 1983 and was initially available with a 12-valve [[carburetor|carburated]] [[engine]], and [[fuel injection]] was introduced in 1985. In Japan, Asia and Europe, it was available with a [[Overhead Camshafts|DOHC]] 16-valve PGM-FI [[engine]], although this engine was not released until 1986 in Europe. The second generation Prelude was the first to have pop-up headlights; this allowed for a more aerodynamic front which reduced drag. Opening the headlights however, especially at higher speeds, produced more drag and came with a specific howl inside the car.

When the 16-valve [[Overhead Camshafts|DOHC]] engine came out, the hood was slightly modified since the larger engine could not be fitted under the stock hood. The European version also saw slight modifications to the taillights and revised front and rear bumpers which were now color-matched. Due to the fairly low weight of the car (1,025 kg) and high power (the 16-valve engine produced 100 [[HP|hp]]) the car was surprisingly nimble, something most Preludes were not in comparison to their competitors, until the VTEC engines came out.

===First Generation/ Origins (1979-1982)===
The first generation Prelude was released in 1979, and was the third main model in Honda's modern lineup, joining the [[Honda Civic|Civic]] and the [[Honda Accord|Accord]]. Styling of the car was a combination of both then current Civic and Accord. The Prelude was equipped with a 1751 cc [[SOHC]] [[CVCC]] [[Straight-4|I4]] engine that produced 72 [[HP|hp]] and 94 lbf-ft of torque with a 5-speed [[manual transmission]], and 68 [[HP|hp]] with a 2-speed [[automatic transmission|automatic]] called the [[HondaMatic]].

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:96prelude.jpg
</gallery>

==Awards==
The Prelude was on ''[[Car and Driver]]'' magazine's annual [[Car and Driver Ten Best|Ten Best]] list ten times, from 1984 through 1986, and 1992 through 1998.

==See Also==
{{Honda}}
==External Links==
*[http://www.preludezone.com Prelude Forums]
*[http://www.preludeuk.co.uk PreludeUK Honda Prelude Owners Forum]
*[http://www.absoluteprelude.com Absolute Prelude]
*[http://www.hpoa.org Honda Prelude Owners Association]
*[http://www.honda-prelude.com Honda Prelude 4th Generation]
*[http://www.honda.co.jp/HOT/ModelData/prelude/index.html Prelude time
line at honda.co.jp]
*[http://www.preludepower.com Prelude Power]
*[http://www.preludeonline.com Prelude Online]
*[http://www.preludedriver.com Prelude Driver]
*[http://www.cardomain.com/MakeModel/Honda/Prelude Honda Prelude custom pics]

[[Category:Discontinued Models]]
[[Category:Honda vehicles|Prelude]]
[[Category:Front wheel drive vehicles]]

Cadillac Cien

2008-07-17T11:55:39Z

64.53.235.64:

Scion xB

2008-06-06T21:39:04Z

64.53.235.64: /* Recent Changes */

[[Image:2008 Scion xB.jpg |right|thumb|450px|'''2008 [[Scion]] xB''']]
The '''Scion xB''' is a small wagon from [[Toyota]]'s "youth brand", [[Scion]]. The xB first debuted in Japan, where is is known as the [[Toyota bB]]. It is based on the [[Toyota Yaris]] platform, and it gets excellent gas mileage.

See Wikicars' comprehensive '''[[Scion xB Review]]'''.

===Recent Changes===
The [[Scion]] xB was introduced in 2004 and has undergone few exterior changes since then. For 2006, the audio system has received the most noticeable upgrade, with the inclusion of a Pioneer stereo and iPod connectivity.The Xb has recently got a complete overhaul giving it 600 Pounds and a 2.4L I-4 with 158 bhp. It has kept all of its customizability!!!!

===Styles and Major Options===
[[image:2007_xB_silverdrivingleft.jpg|right|thumb|350px]]
[[Scion]] has made a reputation of its customizability, and the xB is no different. Although only one base model exists, available options are plentiful for mixing and matching. The engine is a 1.5L 103[[hp]] [[I-4]], and [[front wheel drive]] and a 5-speed [[manual transmission]] are both standard. There is an option for a 4-speed [[automatic transmission]]. Toyota/scion dealerships offered a number of factory installed (warrantied) options, which included suspension, a supercharger, and body add ons. Some of the standard features on the base model include the following:
*15" black steel wheels
*4-way sports seats
*Cloth interior, door trim, and headliner
*Metal-look dashboard insert
*Manual front air conditioning
*6-speaker Pioneer AM/FM/MP3/CD audio system
*First aid kit
*Power locks, windows, mirrors

===Pricing===
Today's actual prices for the [[Scion]] xB can be found at [http://www.carsdirect.com/scion/xb/prices CarsDirect].

<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=1>
'''xB Trims'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Base model
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=1>
''MSRP''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$14,030
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=1>
''Invoice''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$13,328
</td>
</tr>
</table>

===Gas Mileage===
As seen on the [http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/findacar.htm FuelEconomy.gov] website, the City/Highway MPG averages are as follows:

<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=2>
'''Trim'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
xB [[manual transmission|manual]]
</td>
<td>
xB [[automatic transmission|auto]]
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan=2 bgcolor=#cccccc>
'''MPG'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
30/33
</td>
<td>
30/34
</td>
</tr>
</table>

===Reliability===
Although the xB has only been out for a few years, the 2004 xB received an overall Green rating from Automotive Information Systems, indicating that it experienced minimal problems in all categories.

===Safety===
The [http://www.safercar.gov NHTSA] website categorizes crash test results for all Scion vehicles under Toyota and lists four stars for both the driver and passenger in the frontal impact test for the xB. In the side impact test, it lists three stars for the front seat and four for the rear for the 2006 xB. Earlier year models were not tested. According to [http://www.autos.com/autos/rankings_safety?cat=passenger_cars&segment=compact_cars&rank=safety&year=2006 Autos.com,] the xB ranks 8th in the Compact Car category for safety. Unfortunately, this ranking is compromised by the fact that, due to several ties at higher ranks, the xB is actually listed behind a total of 31 other vehicles.

Standard safety features include:
*[[Traction control]]
*[[Electronic stability control]]
*Front and rear anti-roll bars
*Four wheel [[anti-lock brakes]]
*Driver/Passenger front-impact [[airbag]]s
*Side impact bars
*Front seatbelt pretensioners

===Photos===
<gallery>
Image:Scion_xb_05.jpg
image:2007_xB_silveronwhite.jpg
image:2007_xB_dashboard.jpg
image:2007_xB_frontinterior.jpg
Image:2008 Scion xB front.jpg
Image:2008 Scion xB rear.jpg
Image:2008 Scio xB interior.jpg
</gallery>

===Colors===
A full list of colors for the [[Scion]] xB is viewable at [http://www.carsdirect.com/scion/xb/colors CarsDirect.com.] Some of the available combinations are:

'''Exterior'''
*Black Cherry Pearl
*Black Sand Pearl
*Camouflage Metallic
*Envy Green
*Polar White
*Salsa Red Pearl
*Shadow Mica
*Thunder Cloud Metallic
[[image:2007_xB_silverright.jpg|right|thumb|350px]]
'''Interior'''
*Dark Charcoal

===Main Competitors===
*[[Mazda Mazda3]]
*[[Toyota Prius]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Toyota Corolla]]
*[[Subaru Impreza]]
*[[Hyundai Elantra]]
*[[Volkswagen Jetta]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Ford Focus]]

==Hybrid Models==
There are currently no [[hybrid]] models of the xB in production.

==Unique Attributes==

==Resale Values==
According to [http://www.kbb.com Kelley Blue Book,] "the xB is expected to retain a good portion of its value, with a projected 66-percent residual value at 24 months and an impressive 51-percent residual at 48 months."

==Criticisms==
*"The automatic transmission downshifted constantly on hilly terrain, upshifting soon after, then downshifting again for more power. Like an old VW microbus, acceleration is a relative term." - Cars.com
*"About the only reason not to like the xB is if its styling turns you off." - Kelley Blue Book

==Current Generation: (2005–present)==
The xB was one of two models in the lineup of [[Toyota]]'s US-exclusive [[Scion (car)|Scion]] division present at the brand's [[2004]] launch (the other was the [[Scion xA|xA]], based on the [[Toyota ist]]). Both cars feature the [[Toyota NZ engine#1NZ-FE|1NZ-FE]] engine, rated at 108 [[HP|hp]] (81 kW) at 6000 rpm and 105 lb-ft of torque at 4200 rpm. Although Toyota expected the xA to sell better than the xB, the reverse was true, with the xB outselling its brother 2 to 1, possibly due to the xB's radical styling, and the xB's unique combination of van-like cargo and passenger space with a very compact size.

==Worldwide==
====Differences between the xB and the bB====
Besides the obvious change from right to left-hand drive, the front passenger area has changed significantly. The bB has a front bench seat and a [[column-mounted shifter]] for the [[Automatic transmission|automatic]] transmission. The xB, on the other hand, has 2 front bucket seats and a shifter mounted on the floor.

The available drivetrains also differ. The bB is available with either the 1.3 L [[Toyota_NZ_engine#2NZ-FE|2NZ-FE]] engine or the 1.5 L 1NZ-FE, mated exclusively to a 4-speed [[Automatic transmission|automatic]] transmission, with available all-wheel drive. The xB is only available with the 1NZ-FE, but offers both a 4-speed [[Automatic transmission|automatic]] or a 5-speed manual transmission. All-wheel drive is not offered on the xB.

====Toyota Corolla Rumion====
In the Japanese Domestic Market, the Scion xB is know as the Toyota Corolla Rumion. It is similar to the xB save for a different front end design.[http://www.worldcarfans.com/9071009.014/toyota-corolla-rumion-launched-ja]

<gallery>
Image:Rumion1.jpg
Image:Rumion2.jpg
</gallery>

==Design quirks and oddities==
The [[Transformer]] [[Alternator]]/[[Binaltech]] toy [[Skids]] transforms into a Scion xB. In Japan, he was repainted into Broadblaster ([[Blaster]]).

==Awards==

==See also==
{{Scion}}

==External links==
*[http://www.scion.com/showroom/xb/gallery/ Scion xB official webpage]

*[http://carscoop.blogspot.com/2008/01/detroit-show-scion-xb-release-series-50.html Detroit Show: Scion xB Release Series 5.0]
*[http://www.clubxb.com/ Scion XB Forum - ClubXB]
*[http://www.kadevelopment.com/ Kaizen Automotive Development - A Club of Scion Enthusiasts]
*[http://www.jbcarpages.com/scion/xb/ JB car pages: Scion xB]
*[http://www.motortrend.com/cars/2008/scion/xb/ 2008 Scion xB info]
*[http://www.scionlife.com/ Forum dedicated to the Scion life, including the xB]
*[http://www.sciongeneration.com/scionxb.html Scion Generation - Scion xB Aftermarket]

This page uses content from Wikipedia; see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scion_xB Scion xB], which includes these [http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Scion_xB&action=history contributors].

[[Category:Current Models]]
[[Category:Scion Vehicles|xB]]
[[Category:Front Wheel Drive Vehicles]]
[[Category:Subcompact Cars]]
[[Category:Hatchbacks]]
[[Category:2000s Automobiles]]

Toyota AE86

2008-06-06T21:31:19Z

64.53.235.64:

Porsche 959

2008-02-13T12:23:01Z

64.53.235.64:

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Porsche 959.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Porsche 959'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Porsche]]
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| aka
| Porsche Gruppe B
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production
| 1987 - 1989
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class
| Super Luxury
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style
| Coupe
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length
| 4260 mm
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width
| 1840 mm
|- style="vertical-align:top;
| Height
| 1280 mm
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase
| 2272 mm
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight
| 1451 kg (Komfort)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmission
| 6-speed Manual
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engine
| 2.85 litre turbocharged flat-six<br>Both air and water cooled.
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power
| 450 hp <br>370 lb-ft of [[torque]]
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar
| [[Ferrari F40,Ferrari 288 GTO]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Designer
|
|}

By the year 1980, [[Porsche]] had come a long way. In merely twenty years, the Stuttgart-based company had quickly become the performance benchmark to which all other car companies would aspire to - past, present and future. The dedicated engineers and motivated designers had shown the world that they could beat the best at [[Le Mans]]. They had proved their worth at [[rallying]], with a 1965 win in Monte Carlo, and they had become champions all over the world in the [[Grand Touring]] class. Most prolific of all, the team had produced a quick, reliable and desireable sports car, in the shape of the 911, from a seemingly 'flawed' chassis - which had a large proportion of mass behind the rear axle. The most recent triumph had been to harness turbocharging efficiently and safely in a road car.

Instead of lying back amongst their many laurels, the Porsche engineers decided to bring all the knowledge, experience and hard-won data together, and create a Car for the Future. A car that would beat all comers on road and track. A car that would form the very essence of Porsche DNA. And it was to be called the '''959'''.

==History==

In 1980, the [[FiA]] unveiled the regulations for the new [[Group B]] class of the [[World Rally Championship]]. [[Helmuth Bott]], Porsche's Research and Development Chief, saw these new regulations as the ideal field for which to build a new super-Porsche, and soon became immersed in talks with the engineers and designers, hatching plans for the supercar. Bott envisaged a car which made elaborate use of exotic modern compounds and composites for the bodywork, an exciting and technologically advanced chassis and drivetrain, and electrically adjustable, computer-controlled suspension. With these plans, he headed off to speak with [[Peter Schutz]], Porsche CEO, and the rest of the board.

Schutz paricularly like Bott's idea, and shared his enthusiasm for a super-Porsche. However, other board members were not so pleased with the propositions, and pointed out the financial strain that the project would place upon the still-young Porsche. The regulations demanded the production of 200 near-identical cars, built to match the specification of the race car that would be entered in the championship. Porsche realised that this figure was too high for a race car - after all, there were only so many privateer rally teams. The high figure would necessitate the production of road legal cars, which would involve intensive development into making the car reliable for long journeys, and comfortable to use from day to day. And anyway, trying to recoup the mighty development costs of such extreme engineering would be impossible from the sale of a single batch of 200 cars.

Despite the naysaying board members, Schutz greenlighted the project, and the finalisation of the design took place. One compromise Schutz and Bott were willing to make was to use the 911 shell as a (loose) base, to keep tooling costs to a minimum. However, the roof, doors and wings were to use Kevlar, a recently patented plastic composite material, that was very strong, very light, and very expensive. The use of Kevlar involved new tooling anyway. Other materials were used for the remainder of the car - aluminium, for where a modicum of strength and a degree of lightness was strived for, and steel, for where torsional rigidity was desired. The design of the car used an almost-identical 911-esque roofline, complete with the same glass as the smaller coupe, but featured fresh bumpers, with integrated air vents (the rear bumper containing an interesting pair, that would create a vacuum behind the car to draw out hot gasses from the engine) and a new rear spoiler and bootlid. The front lights remained very similar to the 911, although were flush to the wings and canted back a few degrees, to give a fresh-faced and contemporary look. The shape was honed in the company's wind tunnel, and tweaked to ensure that it was 'zero lift' - important for the high speeds that the car would be able to perform. New wing mirrors were fabricated, and small air intakes were cut into the rear wings, to provide cooling.

The chassis of the car was where the engineers were allowed to show off all their talents. For a start, the 959 was four-wheel drive, as the design brief wished for the maximum traction possible. Called Porsche-Steuer Kupplung (PSK), the system ensured that the drive was split automatically between the axles, by a split differential - a first for commercial cars, and the basis of all modern four wheel drive automobiles. The traction itself was switchable - Porsche wanted the car to be used to its greatest ability, no matter what the conditions. Thus, there was a dial on the dashboard with which the driver could select modes to conform to the current weather. The system started off as a 'Wet and Dry' only - but with cold weather testing taking place in Scandanavia, the engineers realised that even the 'wet' mode was incompetent in snow. A 'snow' option was added. The dial actively changed the suspension levels and the drive split to provide the optimum for the conditions. The fully changeable suspension consisted of 4 shock absorbers per wheel, and the ride height was adjustable, from a ground hugging stance perfect for the track, to a heightened level capable of driving in snow or crossing shallow fords.

Under the bonnet, the ubiquitous flat six configuration of the 911 was retained, though extensively modified. Twin turbochargers were added, and benefitted from 'multi-stage turbocharging', in which boost strength was increased or decreased according to engine revs. This provide a lag-free system, and ensured a constant, Earth-moving acceleration. The engine itself (2.85 litres in capacity), was air cooled, apart from the cylinder heads, which were water cooled, for the improved efficiency. The lump developed 450 BHP, and 370 lb ft of torque, allowing the 1451 KG car to power from 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds - quicker than anything else out there, at the time, and still comfortingly quick these days. The 959 topped out at 197 mph.

Development, which took place around the infamous Nurburgring Nordschleife, highlighted a loose link in the 959-branded chain - the tyres. The harsh acceleration and high top-end speeds, added to the stress from the four-wheel drive chassis, caused the tyres to wear unperceptably quickly. Also, due to the width of the new design alloys, a spare could not be fitted anywhere in the car. So, Porsche joined forces with [[Dunlop]], to create a tyre that would 'never go flat'. Called the Denloc, the tyre featured much stiffer sidewalls than a standard version - thus providing continued support in the event of a deflation, allowing a 959 driver to drive 150 miles, with a speed limited to 50 mph, with a flat. The pressures were monitored by a computer, and the driver was alerted to a pressure drop. The forged magnesium wheels hid suitably humungous brake discs - 322 mm at the front, and 308 mm at the rear.

As spy photographs of the 959 circulated, the rumour mill wound into overdrive. Porsche received over 100 letters of interest from loyal customers, inquiring into the new car. The specification and technology was kept tightly under lock and key, and several styling bucks, named 'Gruppe B', did the worldwide motorshow tour. Schutz was getting tetchy over development times, and to solve the problem, Porsche enlisted British rally specialists, [[Prodrive]], to help produce three 959s for the 1985 [[Paris to Dakar rally]]. The rally was to provide a test bed for the car - and Porsche gained so much data that it reputably slashed two years from the development time. The rally 959s used the basic Carrera engine, due to the early stage of the real engine's development, but featured all the technology from the finished article. However, results-wise, the '85 Dakar was a flop for Porsche, with one car rolling spectacularly, and other smashing into a sand-covered rock at near-on 170 mph, and the third and final car suffering from a burst oil pipe - but Bott was quick to explain that the race was never about the results.

By 1985, Porsche had received 120 firm orders for street-legal 959s, and 20 for racing versions. However, by 1986, Group B rallying was dead, and Porsche was suddenly left with an almost-finished hypercar, which now had no final purpose. For a while, development remained stagnant, but Schutz and Bott decided to persevere, and in 1988, the first customer examples were delivered.

==Performance==

The Porsche 959 was designed, out and out, to be the biggest performer of the range, and still succeeds in this aim today. The turbocharged engine allows the car to blast from 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds - 0.2 seconds quicker than the [[Porsche Carrera GT|Carrera GT]]. 0-100 mph was dispatched in 8.3 seconds, and 0-140 occurring in a barely believable 19 seconds, the car travelling less than 900 metres in doing so. The quarter mile took only 11.8 seconds, with the car crossing the line at 119 mph. One thing the 959 could never be called was 'a bit slow'.

The ride height automatically lowered at different speeds, along with the stiffness of the suspension. This meant that around 30 mph, the ride was soft and supple, but by 110 mph was at its stiffest. The driver was unaware of the changes, due to the system being controlled entirely by computer. Although manual changes to the suspension settings could be made, the ability was switched off above 110 mph for safety reasons.

The period press revelled in the car, and fought each other for the most superlatives - the general consensus was that Porsche had created a wonderful automobile. It was truly all-weather, and although it may have lacked a little of its arch-nemesis, the [[Ferrari F40]]'s passion, it was a great deal more reliable and less temperamental. Porsche eventually produced 283 959s in total, this figure including Komfort and Clubsport specifications

==Models==

The Porsche 959 was created in a number of variants on a purpose-built production line in Stuttgart. The first cars were shipped across to Prodrive for conversion into the Dakar rally cars, in 1985, and continued in desert rallying until 1987. The cars, with the synonomous Rothmans tobacco advertising, were then sold to privateers, many of whom continued to race the cars.

The customer cars were available in two variants - the Komfort and the Clubsport. The Komfort was the most popular model, and was optimised for road driving and long cruises. Therefore, the interior was trimmed to the highest standard, with lush carpeting and a full leather package - the pillars, dashboard and seats trimmed in the finest. The interior colour was open to customer specification, with a number of vehicles leaving the factory trimmed in the attractive 'three-tone' leather, featuring a dominant colour for the seats and doorcards, with a series of silver and another colour or leather stripes across them. Other cars, like the one delivered to the Prince of Monaco, featured red seats, red dash and red carpeting. The interior design itself came under criticism - it was identical, apart from a few minor controls, to the basic [[Porsche 911|911]], and customers complained that it was not exclusive enough for Porsche's greatest car.

The Clubsport followed in the footsteps of previous RS models - weight loss and a roll cage. The carpets were jettisoned, replaced with thin felt. The electric and heated seats of the Komfort were replaced with buckets, and harnesses replaced the inertia reel seatbelts. The rear perches were lost altogether, and the rear was dominated by a web of intertwined metal tubing - the roll cage. Bars also framed the windscreen, and removeable door crossbars were supplied with the car. The light 959 was made even lighter, and although usable on the road, was really a bit too harsh, and suited the smooth confines of a racetrack.

In keeping with the original concept of the car - a racing machine - Porsche unveiled the [[Porsche 961|961]], a 959 for [[Le Mans]] and [[Daytona]]. Built to the [[IMSA]] X regulations, the car was moderately successful, but was terminally overshadowed by its bigger brother - the [[Porsche 962|962]], which was taking the racing world by storm. Only a handful of cars were built, and the Porsche factory car was destroyed in a fire at Le Mans.

==Living With a 959==

Being such a specialised car, the 959 demands a high standard of maintenance which very few dealerships worldwide can offer.

British 959s can be serviced at Porsche Great Britain's headquarters in Reading, also the only service dealership in the country for the Carrera GT. Many European owners wish to return their cars to the factory for servicing, and Porsche can even supply mechanics to far-off countries for servicing and parts replacement. The cars seem to be reliable enough - which is just as well, as parts costs are extorsionate. To give you a little taster, the wheel centres (the plastic piece with the Porsche crest stamped upon it) each cost £700 - mainly due to the rarity of the parts.

The 959 was only made road legal in 1999, due to Porsche's refusal to allow the car to be crash-tested. A change in regulations with regards to the crash testing of automobiles sold in the USA (which itself was brought about by famous 959 owners Paul Allen and Bill Gates) allowed the legality of driving the 959 on US roads - but modifications must be made to the turbochargers and exhaust system to allow the car to pass emission and drive-by noise tests. However, many 959 owners simply refuse to have this done, and the majority of Stateside cars are garage queens, only venturing out for shows.

==Legacy==

Porsche board members were right - the 959 never made back its investment - conservative estimates describe Porsche selling 959s for half of the build cost. Well, not in the sense of the single model, but traits of the 959 can be seen in modern Porsches. For example, the four-wheel drive entered series production with the [[Porsche 964|964]], and had been part of the 911 range since. The changeable turbochargers made future racing models and Turbo models easier to produce and develop. The front wings and headlamps were simplified and formed the front end of the [[Porsche 993|993]]. The air intakes in the bumpers are echoed in the [[Porsche 996|996 Turbo]], and the rear 'vacuum' have similar purposes. The mirror and alloy wheel designs became and integral feature of the 1990s Porsche range. And, most recently, the adjustable suspension has been released on the [[Porsche 997|997]], [[Porsche Boxster|Boxster]], [[Porsche Cayenne|Cayenne]] and [[Porsche Cayman|Cayman]], as [[PASM]], although in a more advanced format.

But the 959's influence spread wider than the confines of Porsche. The runflat tyres feature prominently on modern cars, as does the variable four wheel drive. The turbocharging technique features on almost all modern diesel cars, and is similar in essence to Porsche's own VTG system. The 959 became the benchmark for modern supercars - and its DNA can be found in the [[McLaren F1]], [[Bugatti Veyron]] and almost every contemporary supercar. Porsche may not have created a monitary profit, but instead created a new benchmark for the automotive world.

==Gallery==
<gallery>
Image:376.jpg
Image:382.jpg
Image:Parisdakar959.jpg
</gallery>

{{Porsche}}

Ferrari 288 GTO Evoluzione

2008-02-12T13:17:59Z

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Ferrari 288 GTO Evoluzione

2008-02-12T13:17:32Z

64.53.235.64: /* Styles and Major Options */

Ferrari 288 GTO Evoluzione

2008-02-12T13:16:38Z

64.53.235.64: /* Recent Changes */

Ferrari 288 GTO Evoluzione

2008-02-12T13:15:19Z

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