2015 Ford Mustang vs. Camaro and Challenger [w/poll]

Posted on July 18, 2014July 18, 2014 by Authcom

$2015 ford mustang gt 13 1 2015 Ford Mustang vs. Camaro and Challenger [w/poll] by Authcom, Nova Scotia\s Internet and Computing Solutions Provider in Kentville, Annapolis Valley$

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The horsepower wars are tightening among the Detroit Three, as the Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger are getting bigger, more powerful, and yes, more fuel efficient.

That came into sharper focus this week as more information was revealed about the most insane Challenger ever – the 707-horsepower Hellcat – followed quickly by Ford’s in-depth showcase of the 2015 Mustang in Dearborn.

It’s shaping up to be a golden age for enthusiasts, and what’s under the hood is becoming more important than ever.

The V8s

Right now, the 5.0-litre Mustang GT has the lead among Detroit’s V8 muscle cars in the power department, though there’s a caveat. The 435-hp output of the 5.0-litre ‘Stang is ahead of the 6.2-litre LS3 V8 Camaro SS, which is rated at 426 ponies. It’s also better than the 5.7-litre V8 Challenger R/T’s 375 hp.
But, it trails the 6.4-litre V8 used in the 392 Challenger, which makes 485 hp. Blue Oval enthusiasts could argue the 392 is a sort of “Hellcat Lite,” and not the GT’s true competitor.
The tables are turned in the torque department, as the V8 Stang summons 400 lb-ft, which is behind the Camaro SS (420 lb-ft), the Challenger R/T (410 lb-ft) and the 392 (475 lb-ft).
Of course, we’re just talking about the 2015 Mustang’s competition, and since we don’t know what’s in store for the SVT-tuned example yet, we’re leaving out any comparisons to the Camaro Z/28 and ZL1, as well as the previously mentioned, 707-hp Challenger Hellcat.

The V6s

Among V6s, the Camaro is the decided leader in power, boosting 323 hp, well ahead of the Challenger’s 305 hp and the now-detuned Mustang, which dropped to an even 300 hp this year.
The Blue Oval does pack the most torque among six-cylinders with 280 lb-ft, just ahead of the Camaro’s 278 lb-ft and the Challenger’s 268 lb-ft.

The Wildcard

Of course, we’re referring to Ford’s EcoBoost inline four-cylinder, which pushes out 310 hp and an impressive 320 lb-ft from a turbocharged 2.3-litre mill. Neither Dodge nor Chevy have anything similar in their current muscle car lines, and if there are any undecided potential buyers in this died-in-the-wool segment, it could prove to be a game-changer.

Tipping The Scales

The turbo four is also the lightest Mustang and the lightest car among these offerings from Detroit, weighing 3,524 pounds (1,598 kilograms). The V6 ‘Stang is just two pounds heavier though, which puts it well ahead of the V6 Camaro (3,702 pounds / 1,679 kg) and Challenger (3,834 pounds / 1,739 kg).
This trend continues among the V8s, as the Mustang GT is 3,705 pounds (1,680 kg) – just three pounds (1.3 kg) heavier than the lightest Camaro V6. The eight-cylinder Chevy comes in at 3,908 pounds (1,805 kg), which is still lighter than the Challenger’s weight of 4,082 pounds (1,851 kg).

So those are the cold, hard numbers. Objectively there are definite winners and losers, depending on what you value in a sporting automobile. But in the end, this segment has always been about more than the numbers. If anything, spec sheets trivialize it. Muscle cars are about the visceral experience from behind the wheel. Pick your favorite, plunk down your cash and hit road. Who are we to tell you that you’re wrong?

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2015 Ford Mustang vs. Camaro and Challenger [w/poll]

2015 Ford Mustang vs. Camaro and Challenger [w/poll] originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 18 Jul 2014 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nuclear-powered concept cars from the Atomic Age

Posted on July 18, 2014July 18, 2014 by Authcom

$1962+Ford+Seattle ite+XXI 03 Nuclear powered concept cars from the Atomic Age by Authcom, Nova Scotia\s Internet and Computing Solutions Provider in Kentville, Annapolis Valley$

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In the 1950s and early 60s, the dawn of nuclear power was supposed to lead to a limitless consumer culture, a world of flying cars and autonomous kitchens all powered by clean energy. In Europe, it offered the then-limping continent a cheap, inexhaustible supply of power after years of rationing and infrastructure damage brought on by two World Wars.

The development of nuclear-powered submarines and ships during the 1940s and 50s led car designers to begin conceptualizing atomic vehicles. Fueled by a consistent reaction, these cars would theoretically produce no harmful byproducts and rarely need to refuel. Combining these vehicles with the new interstate system presented amazing potential for North American mobility.

But the fantasy soon faded. There were just too many problems with the realities of nuclear power. For starters, the powerplant would be too small to attain a reaction unless the car contained weapons-grade atomic materials. Doing so would mean every fender-bender could result in a minor nuclear holocaust. Additionally, many of the designers assumed a lightweight shielding material or even forcefields would eventually be invented (they still haven’t) to protect passengers from harmful radiation. Analyses of the atomic car concept at the time determined that a 50-ton (45,000 kg) lead barrier would be necessary to prevent exposure.

Although hope is still alive for nuclear-powered cars – engines powered by lasers and Thorium salts have been suggested – it’s amusing to think that there was a time when these cars were seriously considered the future of transportation. Our love affair with nuclear energy has waned considerably since the catastrophes at Chernobyl, Three Mile Island and, most recently, Fukushima.

Take a trip back in time to when creativity was out matched only by naïveté by checking out these nuclear-powered car concepts from automakers like Ford and Studebaker-Packard. Radiation suit not included.

Nuclear-powered concept cars from the Atomic Age

Nuclear-powered concept cars from the Atomic Age originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 18 Jul 2014 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2015 Ford Mustang specs revealed, GT to pack 435 HP

Posted on July 18, 2014July 18, 2014 by Authcom

$01 2015 ford mustang 628 red 2015 Ford Mustang specs revealed, GT to pack 435 HP by Authcom, Nova Scotia\s Internet and Computing Solutions Provider in Kentville, Annapolis Valley$

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The 2015 Ford Mustang sounds great so far – at least on paper. Ford has just announced specs for the latest version of the iconic pony car in Dearborn, telling Autoblog that it will pump out as much as 435 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque from its 5.0-litre V8.

Those gaudy figures power the naturally aspirated GT model, and they easily eclipse the “more than” 420 hp and 390 lb-ft that Ford originally estimated.

The 2.3-litre turbocharged EcoBoost four-cylinder makes 310 hp and 320 lb-ft, and it’s the first turbo Mustang since the 1986 SVO.

The 2.3-litre turbocharged EcoBoost four-cylinder makes 310 hp and 320 lb-ft, and it’s the first turbo Mustang since the 1986 SVO.

The 3.7-litre V6, which has by default become the entry-level model, is rated at 300 hp and 280 lb-ft. Power is down slightly from 2014’s output of 305 hp to slot the naturally aspirated six-cylinder below the EcoBoost four banger.

The Mustang will start at US$24,425*, including destination charges, when it goes on sale later this year. *Canadian pricing yet to be announced.

Ford significantly redesigned the Mustang for 2015. It has a new suspension featuring an independent rear setup, beefier brakes, an upgraded infotainment system with MyFord Touch and more interior space. It’s all wrapped in sleeker styling that accentuates its fastback silhouette and improves aerodynamics while still channeling the appearance of the original 1960s pony car.

Meanwhile, fears that the Mustang’s new technologies would result in a significant weight gain were overstated. According to a Ford slide shown at the Dearborn presentation, the lightest model is the EcoBoost four-cylinder with an automatic transmission, which checks in with a base curb weight of 3,524 pounds (1,598 kilograms). That’s only 28 pounds (13 kilograms) heavier than last year’s lightest model, the V6 with a manual.

The rest of the lineup is similarly trim. The base curb weight of the 2015 V6 fastback with a six-speed manual transmission is 3,526 pounds (1,600 kilograms), a 30-pound (13.6-kilogram) increase from the 2014 model. A V6 with an automatic is 3,530 pounds (1,601 kilograms) (up just 12 pounds / 6 kilograms), followed by the EcoBoost with a manual (3,532 pounds / 1,602 kilograms).

The GT packed on 87 pounds (39 kilograms), and now weighs 3,705 (1,681 kilograms), and the GT with an automatic gained 54 pounds (24 kilograms) to now weigh 3,729 pounds (1,691 kilograms).

Ford product chief Raj Nair said the focus was on the power-to-weight-ratio (11.36 pounds /5.15 kilograms per hp for the lightest EcoBoost, 8.52 pounds / 3.86 kilograms per hp for the GT) and called the new generation “the greatest, most advanced performing Mustang we’ve ever done.”

As we’ve noted, these performance figures are even better than Ford (albeit conservatively) projected. But if they aren’t enough to quicken your pulse, sit tight. Ford’s Special Vehicles Team is hard at work on something that promises to be still more menacing. Stay tuned.

UPDATE: We’ve just received details about the Mustang’s weight, which have been added into the story. The official press release has also been posted, below.

2015 Ford Mustang specs revealed, GT to pack 435 HP

2015 Ford Mustang specs revealed, GT to pack 435 HP originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 18 Jul 2014 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2015 Ford Mustang vs. Camaro and Challenger [w/poll]

Posted on July 17, 2014July 17, 2014 by Authcom

$2015 ford mustang gt 13 1 2015 Ford Mustang vs. Camaro and Challenger [w/poll] by Authcom, Nova Scotia\s Internet and Computing Solutions Provider in Kentville, Annapolis Valley$

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The horsepower wars are tightening among the Detroit Three, as the Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger are getting bigger, more powerful, and yes, more fuel efficient.

It’s shaping up to be a golden age for enthusiasts, and what’s under the hood is becoming more important than ever.

The V8s

Right now, the 5.0-liter Mustang GT has the lead among Detroit’s V8 muscle cars in the power department, though there’s a caveat. The 435-hp output of the 5.0-liter ‘Stang is ahead of the 6.2-liter LS3 V8 Camaro SS, which is rated at 426 ponies. It’s also better than the 5.7-liter V8 Challenger R/T’s 375 hp.
But, it trails the 6.4-liter V8 used in the 392 Challenger, which makes 485 hp. Blue Oval enthusiasts could argue the 392 is a sort of “Hellcat Lite,” and not the GT’s true competitor.
The tables are turned in the torque department, as the V8 Stang summons 400 lb-ft, which is behind the Camaro SS (420 lb-ft), the Challenger R/T (410 lb-ft) and the 392 (475 lb-ft).
Of course, we’re just talking about the 2015 Mustang’s competition, and since we don’t know what’s in store for the SVT-tuned example yet, we’re leaving out any comparisons to the Camaro Z/28 and ZL1, as well as the previously mentioned, 707-hp Challenger Hellcat.

The V6s

Among V6s, the Camaro is the decided leader in power, boosting 323 hp, well ahead of the Challenger’s 305 hp and the now-detuned Mustang, which dropped to an even 300 hp this year.
The Blue Oval does pack the most torque among six-cylinders with 280 lb-ft, just ahead of the Camaro’s 278 lb-ft and the Challenger’s 268 lb-ft.

The Wildcard

Of course, we’re referring to Ford’s EcoBoost inline four-cylinder, which pushes out 310 hp and an impressive 320 lb-ft from a turbocharged 2.3-liter mill. Neither Ford nor Chevy have anything similar in their current muscle car lines, and if there are any undecided potential buyers in this died-in-the-wool segment, it could prove to be a game-changer.

Tipping The Scales

The turbo four is also the lightest Mustang and the lightest car among these offerings from Detroit, weighing 3,524 pounds. The V6 ‘Stang is just two pounds heavier though, which puts it well ahead of the V6 Camaro (3,702 pounds) and Challenger (3,834 pounds).
This trend continues among the V8s, as the Mustang GT is 3,705 pounds – just three pounds heavier than the lightest Camaro V6. The eight-cylinder Chevy comes in at 3,908 pounds, which is still lighter than the Challenger’s weight of 4,082 pounds.

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2015 Ford Mustang vs. Camaro and Challenger [w/poll] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Jul 2014 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Read more here: Mustang News

2015 Ford Mustang vs. Camaro and Challenger [w/poll]

Posted on July 17, 2014July 17, 2014 by Authcom

$2015 ford mustang gt 13 1 2015 Ford Mustang vs. Camaro and Challenger [w/poll] by Authcom, Nova Scotia\s Internet and Computing Solutions Provider in Kentville, Annapolis Valley$

Filed under:

The horsepower wars are tightening among the Detroit Three, as the Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger are getting bigger, more powerful, and yes, more fuel efficient.

It’s shaping up to be a golden age for enthusiasts, and what’s under the hood is becoming more important than ever.

The V8s

Right now, the 5.0-liter Mustang GT has the lead among Detroit’s V8 muscle cars in the power department, though there’s a caveat. The 435-hp output of the 5.0-liter ‘Stang is ahead of the 6.2-liter LS3 V8 Camaro SS, which is rated at 426 ponies. It’s also better than the 5.7-liter V8 Challenger R/T’s 375 hp.
But, it trails the 6.4-liter V8 used in the 392 Challenger, which makes 485 hp. Blue Oval enthusiasts could argue the 392 is a sort of “Hellcat Lite,” and not the GT’s true competitor.
The tables are turned in the torque department, as the V8 Stang summons 400 lb-ft, which is behind the Camaro SS (420 lb-ft), the Challenger R/T (410 lb-ft) and the 392 (475 lb-ft).
Of course, we’re just talking about the 2015 Mustang’s competition, and since we don’t know what’s in store for the SVT-tuned example yet, we’re leaving out any comparisons to the Camaro Z/28 and ZL1, as well as the previously mentioned, 707-hp Challenger Hellcat.

The V6s

Among V6s, the Camaro is the decided leader in power, boosting 323 hp, well ahead of the Challenger’s 305 hp and the now-detuned Mustang, which dropped to an even 300 hp this year.
The Blue Oval does pack the most torque among six-cylinders with 280 lb-ft, just ahead of the Camaro’s 278 lb-ft and the Challenger’s 268 lb-ft.

The Wildcard

Of course, we’re referring to Ford’s EcoBoost inline four-cylinder, which pushes out 310 hp and an impressive 320 lb-ft from a turbocharged 2.3-liter mill. Neither Dodge nor Chevy have anything similar in their current muscle car lines, and if there are any undecided potential buyers in this died-in-the-wool segment, it could prove to be a game-changer.

Tipping The Scales

The turbo four is also the lightest Mustang and the lightest car among these offerings from Detroit, weighing 3,524 pounds. The V6 ‘Stang is just two pounds heavier though, which puts it well ahead of the V6 Camaro (3,702 pounds) and Challenger (3,834 pounds).
This trend continues among the V8s, as the Mustang GT is 3,705 pounds – just three pounds heavier than the lightest Camaro V6. The eight-cylinder Chevy comes in at 3,908 pounds, which is still lighter than the Challenger’s weight of 4,082 pounds.

View Poll

2015 Ford Mustang vs. Camaro and Challenger [w/poll] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Jul 2014 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Read more here: Mustang News

2014 Honda Indy Toronto Drivers Preview

Posted on July 17, 2014July 17, 2014 by Authcom

$honda indy toronto 2013 sunday 76 2014 Honda Indy Toronto Drivers Preview by Authcom, Nova Scotia\s Internet and Computing Solutions Provider in Kentville, Annapolis Valley$

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The annual Honda Indy race has entertained Toronto residents and visitors since 1986, bringing together celebrities, athletes, and race fans to create a festival of speed and live entertainment in one of Canada’s most vibrant cities.

The 2014 Honda Indy continues to be a hot summer tradition and fan favourite event taking place this weekend with free admission on Fan Friday, as the event runs from July 18-20. Don’t take our word for it, just watch this video featuring Indycar drivers Scott Dixon, Simon Pagenaud and Graham Rahal talking about the 2014 Honda Indy Toronto for a taste of what’s in store this year.

Click here to watch the video for yourself and then check out our 200+ photo gallery of race highlights and more from the 2013 Honda Indy in Toronto.

2014 Honda Indy Toronto Drivers Preview

2014 Honda Indy Toronto Drivers Preview originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 17 Jul 2014 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Read more here: Canadian Automotive News

Greg’s Hard Shell Engine Protector

Posted on July 17, 2014July 17, 2014 by Authcom

$gregs hard shell engine protector 300x300 Greg’s Hard Shell Engine Protector by Authcom, Nova Scotia\s Internet and Computing Solutions Provider in Kentville, Annapolis Valley$

The first rule of engine longevity is cleanliness. Open engines are vulnerable to damage from dust, dirt, debris, and hard objects. Get a Hard Shell that can be used on engine after engine and can be used in multiple configurations. Protect your valuable investments with Greg’s Hard Shell Engine Protector.

Greg’s Hard Shell fits all first generation Chevrolet small block V8 engines – long or short block, standard and Vortec head. The Cam Valley Cover protects your engine when intake manifolds are removed. Cylinder Deck Covers protect the cylinder block deck and pistons when heads are removed. And, there is plenty of clearance for domed pistons.

The set includes: one Cam Valley Cover, two Cylinder Deck Covers and four attachment clips.

MSRP: $29.95

For more info: www.ernstmfg.com

The post Greg’s Hard Shell Engine Protector appeared first on Engine Builder Magazine.

Goodson Oil Filter Inspection Tool

Posted on July 17, 2014July 17, 2014 by Authcom

$Goodson Oil Filter Inspection Tool 300x217 Goodson Oil Filter Inspection Tool by Authcom, Nova Scotia\s Internet and Computing Solutions Provider in Kentville, Annapolis Valley$

Goodson Tools & Supplies for Engine Builders recently introduced a redesigned Oil Filter Inspection Tool. The Oil Filter Inspection Tool is used to cut open an oil filter after an oil change or high stress engine operation, such as occurs in a racing environment. By cutting open the filter and inspecting it for trapped contaminants, engine problems can be quickly diagnosed.

According to Chris Jensen, Goodson Tech Services Representative, “After running a race, you should run a flow test, but this can be expensive and take time. Cutting open the used oil filter with the Oil Filter Inspection Tool is the next best thing.”

Jensen explained that most oil filters will trap anything larger than 24 to 30 microns, although some trap particles as small as 1 micron. When you inspect the oil filter, you can actually see what is getting trapped. This can be anything from silicone sealants to broken mechanical parts to worm materials and more. Metal shavings can point you toward mechanical problem that could cause total engine failure.

To be very technical, a sample of the contaminants can be placed on a microscope slide and examined. Jensen suggested checking out a hobby or toy store for an inexpensive microscope.

The Goodson Oil Filter Inspection Tool is part number FIT-1-G and comes with a single blade installed. Replacement blades are available (FIT-W). For more information, contact Goodson at 1-800-533-8010 or online at www.goodson.com.

The post Goodson Oil Filter Inspection Tool appeared first on Engine Builder Magazine.

2015 Ford Mustang specs revealed, GT to pack 435 HP

Posted on July 17, 2014July 17, 2014 by Authcom

$15FordMustang 60 HR 2015 Ford Mustang specs revealed, GT to pack 435 HP by Authcom, Nova Scotia\s Internet and Computing Solutions Provider in Kentville, Annapolis Valley$

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Those gaudy figures power the naturally aspirated GT model, and they easily eclipse the “more than” 420 hp and 390 lb-ft that Ford originally estimated.

The 2.3-liter turbocharged EcoBoost four-cylinder makes 310 hp and 320 lb-ft, and it’s the first turbo Mustang since the 1986 SVO.

The 3.7-liter V6, which has by default become the entry-level model, is rated at 300 hp and 280 lb-ft. Power is down slightly from 2014’s output of 305 hp to slot the naturally aspirated six-cylinder below the EcoBoost four banger.

The Mustang will start at $24,425, including destination charges, when it goes on sale later this year.

2015 Ford Mustang specs revealed, GT to pack 435 HP originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Jul 2014 12:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Read more here: Mustang News

2015 Ford Mustang specs revealed, GT to pack 435 HP [UPDATE]

Posted on July 17, 2014July 17, 2014 by Authcom

$01 2015 ford mustang 628 red 2015 Ford Mustang specs revealed, GT to pack 435 HP [UPDATE] by Authcom, Nova Scotia\s Internet and Computing Solutions Provider in Kentville, Annapolis Valley$

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Those gaudy figures power the naturally aspirated GT model, and they easily eclipse the “more than” 420 hp and 390 lb-ft that Ford originally estimated.

The 2.3-liter turbocharged EcoBoost four-cylinder makes 310 hp and 320 lb-ft, and it’s the first turbo Mustang since the 1986 SVO.

The 2.3-liter turbocharged EcoBoost four-cylinder makes 310 hp and 320 lb-ft, and it’s the first turbo Mustang since the 1986 SVO.

The Mustang will start at $24,425, including destination charges, when it goes on sale later this year.

Meanwhile, fears that the Mustang’s new technologies would result in a significant weight gain were overstated. According to a Ford slide shown at the Dearborn presentation, the lightest model is the EcoBoost four-cylinder with an automatic transmission, which checks in with a base curb weight of 3,524 pounds. That’s only 28 pounds heavier than last year’s lightest model, the V6 with a manual.

The rest of the lineup is similarly trim. The base curb weight of the 2015 V6 fastback with a six-speed manual transmission is 3,526 pounds, a 30-pound increase from the 2014 model. A V6 with an automatic is 3,530 pounds (up just 12 pounds), followed by the EcoBoost with a manual (3,532 pounds).

The GT packed on 87 pounds, and now weighs 3,705, and the GT with an automatic gained 54 pounds to now weigh 3,729 pounds.

Ford product chief Raj Nair said the focus was on the power-to-weight-ratio (11.36 pounds per hp for the lightest EcoBoost, 8.52 pounds per hp for the GT) and called the new generation “the greatest, most advanced performing Mustang we’ve ever done.”

UPDATE: We’ve just received details about the Mustang’s weight, which have been added into the story. The official press release has also been posted, below.

2015 Ford Mustang specs revealed, GT to pack 435 HP [UPDATE]

2015 Ford Mustang specs revealed, GT to pack 435 HP [UPDATE] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Jul 2014 12:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Read more here: Mustang News