Jaguar Made Only 16 of 1 Ultra-Rare Model Worth an Estimated $30 Million

by Gabrielle DeSantis

One of the planet’s most precious cars, the 1957 Jaguar XKSS is a rare gem. Jaguar produced only 16 of them, and experts believe about a dozen still exist. The XKSS is one of the world’s most prized automobiles. So, who has owned these unique road-going cars now worth millions? Here’s the story.

The 1957 Jaguar XKSS debuts

At the height of the D-Type’s fame in international sports car racing in 1956, Jaguar pulled out of motorsports and redirected its attention to designing road-going cars. The British automaker decided that, with a few modifications, it could convert the D-Type into what became the XKSS. It was road-and-track-ready, intended for U.S. buyers, Hemmings reports.

Jaguar produced 16 units before a fire took out the rest of the inventory. But the XKSS debuted on January 21, 1957. This two-seat sports-racing car could speed around the track and cruise on public roads. It took inspiration from the famous Le Mans Jaguars.

The D-Type’s conversion into the XKSS called for knocking off its fin and adding a traditional windshield, a passenger-side door, complete instrumentation, and a folding hood. It also needed more comfortable seating, a luggage rack, directional signals, bumpers, and other safety equipment to make it street-legal.

The XKSS packed a 3.4-liter inline-six engine with a double-overhead camshaft and harnessing 250 hp. It also had three Weber 45DC03 carburetors and a four-speed fully synchronized manual transmission.

For its day, the XKSS delivered off-the-charts performance. According to an August 1957 Road & Track issue, it could roar from 0 to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds and reach a maximum speed of 149 mph. The rare Jag could also reach 100 mph in 13.6 seconds and finish the quarter-mile in 13.9 seconds.

Steve McQueen owned an original Jaguar XKSS

After the fire destroyed nine models at the Browns Lane factory, the remaining XKSS models became highly sought-after. Famed actor Steve McQueen bought one in the 1950s for $5,000. It sported a British Racing Green paint job.

Originally, the XKSS retailed for $6,900. That was a hefty price tag considering a Porsche Carrera convertible cost $5,915 and a new Chevy Corvette ran $3,465. Because the XKSS 716 got its start as a D-Type, its original chassis tag of XKD 575 was counted as part of Jaguar’s November 1956 inventory. 

Early in 1957, at the Browns Lane factory, Jaguar converted the car into the XKSS. It was one of two examples that shipped to Canada new. Twelve of the remaining 14 cars went to the United States, one stayed in England, and one went to Hong Kong.

The car’s current worth

According to Gizmodo, one of these rare original XKSS models is worth an estimated $30 million. 

But that isn’t the end of the story. Jaguar re-created the 1957 Jaguar XKSS in 2016, Car and Driver reported. Jaguar’s restoration and parts-fabrication workshops at Jaguar Land Rover Classic spent a year and a half building an XKSS from scratch. 

The automaker pulled the serial numbers from the nine models lost in the fire and contacted major collectors to see if they’d be willing to pay over $1 million for each. When you consider the original’s estimated worth, a well-crafted re-creation is a steal.

The post Jaguar Made Only 16 of 1 Ultra-Rare Model Worth an Estimated $30 Million appeared first on MotorBiscuit.

/by

The Best Riding Lawn Mowers According to Bob Vila

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Spring is in full swing, and summer is just around the corner. For many, that change in the weather signifies the need for a new riding lawn mower. But if you’re unsure of which lawn mower to pick? We recommend checking out Bob Vila’s picks for the best riding lawn mowers. Let’s find out what they are.

The Cub Cadet XT1 LT is the best riding lawn mower

Cub Cadet riding lawn mowers on display. | Daniel Acker/Bloomberg

RELATED: The Best Gas Push Mowers According to Consumer Reports

According to Bob Vila, there’s a lot to like about the Cub Cadet XT1 LT. It comes equipped with a powerful 24-hp twin-cylinder Kohler engine and features a 50-inch cutting deck, making it the best riding lawn mower for lawns up to 1.5 acres. With three cutting blades and 12 easily adjustable cutting heights, this riding lawn mower’s cutting deck provides more than enough cutting power, too, Bob Villa reports. 

This mower also boasts features like cruise control and a SmartDeck jet wash system, which lets you attach a garden hose to the mowing deck so that you can rinse out the interior of the mower. As for how much this riding lawn mower costs? According to Home Depot, you can expect to spend roughly $2,199 on the Cub Cadet XT1 LT.

The Troy-Bilt Pony riding lawn mower gives you the best bang for your buck

Perhaps you’re not looking to spend that much on a new lawn mower. Instead, you would prefer a more affordable riding lawn mower for under $2,000. If that’s the case, Bob Vila reports that the Troy-Bilt Pony will give you the most bang for your buck. Priced at $1,349, it’s also significantly cheaper than the Cub Cadet XT1 LT.

The good news is that its cheaper price tag doesn’t mean that this riding lawn mower makes any compromises when it comes to features. In fact, according to Bob Vila, this affordable riding lawn mower benefits from features like a twin-blade deck that offers more than enough cutting power, a seven-speed shift-on-the-go transmission, and an 18-inch turning radius. It also comes equipped with LED headlights and an integrated washing port.

Upgrade to the Cub Cadet Ultima ZT2 for one of the best riding lawn mowers

Cub Cadet zero turn mowers on display
Cub Cadet lawn mowers on display. | Luke Sharrett for Bloomberg

RELATED: The Worst Push Lawn Mowers and What to Buy Instead

For a high-performance zero-turn lawn mower, Bob Vila suggests taking a look at the Cub Cadet Ultima ZT2. Priced at $4,299, this zero-turn riding lawn mower comes equipped with a 24- Kawasaki twin-cylinder motor and a 3.5-gallon gas tank. It also boasts a 60-inch deck and can mow lawns that are three acres or bigger. It can also reach speeds of up to 7.5 mph.

Bob Vila reports that this zero-turn mower is pretty comfortable too. It features a cushioned seat with armrests, along with comfortable hand grips. It also comes outfitted with LED headlights so that you can mow your lawn even in lowlight conditions.

The John Deere E120 is one of the best lawn tractors to buy

RELATED: The Most Reliable John Deere Riding Lawn Mowers According to Consumer Reports

Now, this one should come as no surprise. After all, John Deere is well-known for having some of the best riding lawn mowers out there. But when it comes to the best one that you can buy? Bob Vila suggests going with the John Deere E120.

This riding lawn mower features a 20-hp V-twin engine along with a 42-inch deck. According to Bob Vila, this particular John Deere riding lawn mower is best suited for lawns up to 1.5 acres. Its deck also multiple height adjustments and an 18-inch turning radius that makes navigating around trees and gardens easier than ever. As for how much the John Deere E120 costs? You can expect to spend about $2,100 on this riding lawn mower.

Pick the Toro TimeCutter commercial mower for the best zero-turn lawn mower

RELATED: Lawn Mower Maintenance You Probably Aren’t Doing But Should Be

For those looking to save time cutting their lawn, the Toro TimeCutter might just be the perfect fit. This zero-turn riding lawn mower is driven by a 22.5-hp engine that can reach up to 7 mph. Overall, Bob Vila reports that this mower is among the best riding lawn mowers for cutting lawns up to two acres.

Those aren’t the only reason to consider this zero-turn lawn mower either. Bob Vila reports that this $2,879 lawn mower knows just how to please when it comes to features. In fact, chances are you’ll find yourself enjoying features like an under-seat storage cubby and multiple cup holders when mowing your lawn with this zero-turn mower.

The best riding lawn mowers for small and big yards, according to Bob Vila

Now, say your yard is bigger than three acres. If that’s the case, Bob Villa suggests a Toro TimeCutter with a 54-inch deck. This mower is equipped with a 24.5-hp twin gas engine and features a plush high back seat with armrests to keep you comfortable. The bad news is that this mower is on the more expensive side of things. In fact, opting for this riding lawn mower will have you spending approximately $4,199.

And if you’re in the market for the best lawn mower for small yards instead? Consider the Ryobi 30 in. 50 Ah electric rear engine riding lawn mower. This electric lawn mower is among the best lawn mowers for small yards and charges via a standard 120-volt outlet. Choose this lawn mower, and you can expect to spend about $2,449.

Choosing the best riding lawn mower doesn’t need to be stressful

Shopping for a lawn mower takes time, effort, and research. But with these picks in hand? Choosing the best riding lawn mower for your yard doesn’t need to be a stressful endeavor. Instead, when shopping for your next lawn mower, we suggest keeping these picks in mind.

The post The Best Riding Lawn Mowers According to Bob Vila appeared first on MotorBiscuit.

/by

5 Reasons to Change Your Mind About Electric Trucks

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Everything is going electric. There’s the Tesla Cybertruck, Ford F-150 Lightning, Hummer EV truck, and more. As more auto manufacturers move toward producing electric trucks, it might be time to give them a chance. 

Five reasons to consider an electric truck 

2022 Ford F-150 Lightning Lariat | Ford

1. Instant torque 

According to TRADER, the world of trucks is dominated by torque. This rating will tell you exactly how your truck can handle massive loads. As you feel your engine beginning to struggle down low as you pull your trailer forward, that’s the torque in action. 

Electric motors are highly sufficient for delivering this type of hauling power. With instant torque, electric pickup trucks have an advantage over internal combustion rivals. They tow and haul payloads with ease. 

Electric trucks deliver power without gear reduction, and the role of the transmission changes. They need fewer gears to deliver the same performance. The 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning has 563 hp and 775 lb-ft of torque. 

2. Theres four-wheel control 

Electric vehicle drivelines are simple, meaning engineers can be more creative. An electric truck can have individual power units over each axle or wheel by incorporating multiple electric motors. This provides electric pickup trucks to have four-wheel drive with more control. 

Because the driveline isn’t all mechanically connected like traditional trucks, electric trucks can do things like turn on the spot. For example, Rivian R1T has the Tank Turn, and the Hummer EV has the Crab Walk. The need for locking differentials is eliminated thanks to having individual control at each wheel. 

Electric vehicles reduce all sorts of costs 

RELATED: Tesla Cybertruck Vs. Rivian R1T, Which Will Hit The Street First?

3. You’ll have less maintenance to worry about

Electric pickup trucks require a lot less downtime compared to gas-powered rivals. The electric motors don’t have as many moving parts. In fact, the entire driveline is less complicated. You may not even need a transmission or a much simpler unit. 

Electric trucks are expected to stretch your dollar pretty far by providing more value. They are expected to be reliable and last a long time while being more affordable to keep running. EV pickup trucks are still emerging into the scene, but a few of the most reliable electric vehicles so far include the Tesla Model 3, Nissan Leaf, and Hyundai Kona. 

4. You’ll save money 

According to Consumer Reports, while electric trucks typically have a higher MSRP, when it comes to total ownership cost, electric vehicles provide more savings. Fueling costs and maintenance costs are generally lower compared to gas-powered trucks. 

Their study shows that you can save up to $4,700 or more on the cost of fuel alone during the first seven years of ownership. The typical cost of ownership with an electric vehicle is about $6,000 to $10,000 less than options with internal combustion engines. 

Also, long-range EV vehicles are holding their values as well or even better than traditional gasoline-powered options. Plus, you may be eligible for tax incentives from the state and local governments. 

Electric vehicles are incredibly green 

The first stainless-steel Tesla Cybertruck concept on a track
Tesla Cybertruck concept | Tesla

5. EVs reduce emissions 

Electric pickup trucks will help the Earth. They can reduce the emissions that contribute to climate change and smog. This may improve public health and minimize ecological damage. Charging your electric truck with a renewable energy source such as solar or wind power can reduce emissions even more. 

EVs may help the United States gain a diversity of fuel choices available for transportation. According to Energy.gov, the U.S. used about nine billion barrels of petroleum last year. Two-thirds of it was used for transportation. 

The reliance on petroleum can make the United States vulnerable to price spikes and supply disruptions, like the recent cyber attack on the Colonial Pipeline. EVs help reduce this threat because almost all of our electricity is produced from domestic sources such as coal, nuclear, natural gas, and renewable sources.

The post 5 Reasons to Change Your Mind About Electric Trucks appeared first on MotorBiscuit.

/by

The 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning Is Good for the Environment in More Ways Than 1

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Electricity, not gas, powers the all-new Ford F-150 Lightning, so it’s already doing wonders for the environment. In fact, EVs produce three times fewer carbon emissions than gas-powered vehicles. Up to 96 percent of EV battery material can be recycled, and Tesla has even promised to implement closed-loop battery recycling.

The latest EV batteries can last 10 years or longer. Additionally, the Ford F-150 Lightning’s battery isn’t built the same as standard batteries, MotorTrend reports. Because of its unique low-metal construction, it might be the most environmentally friendly EV battery yet.

The Ford F-150 Lightning’s new battery technology

A joint venture between Ford and SKI Innovation — BlueOvalSK — birthed the F-150 Lightning’s new battery. The two companies formed a partnership to prepare for the rising EV battery production demand, expected to reach 240 GWh. BlueOvalSK plans to have factories producing 60 GWh annually in traction battery cells within a few years.

SK Innovation makes its battery cathode primarily of nickel; it contains only 5 percent cobalt and 5 percent manganese. Observers have long criticized cobalt mining for its dangerous working conditions and child employment. The higher nickel content also provides better energy density, improving capability and lessening its carbon footprint.

We don’t know how much the battery will weigh, but Ford says it provides 230 miles of electric range. With front and rear motors, the F-150 Lightning makes 426 hp and 775 lb-ft of torque. It also boasts a minimum towing capacity of 7,700 pounds and a payload rating of 2,000 pounds.

An extended-range battery is also available. It produces the same amount of torque but 563 hp. It also offers 300 miles of range and the highest available towing capacity of 10,000 pounds. However, payload capacity reduces to 1,800 pounds on extended-range Lightning models.

The Ford F-150 Lightning comes with a standard mobile charger, restoring the battery up to three miles per hour. The optional at-home charging station is a more useful option, giving the larger battery a full charge in eight hours. At DC charging stations, the first 250 kWh are free for Lightning drivers.

What else does the Ford F-150 Lightning offer?

According to MotorTrend, the Ford F-150 Lightning is the first of its kind for several reasons. It has an independent rear suspension instead of an air suspension, undoubtedly making its ride smoother. Most trucks wobble on even civilized roads, especially with empty cargo beds.

It’s also the quickest F-150 created to date, with a reported 0-to-60-mph time of 4.4 seconds. Though Ford hasn’t revealed EPA numbers, it’s safe to assume the Lightning will also offer the best fuel efficiency among F-150s.

So far, a crew cab with a 5.5-foot cargo bed is the Ford F-150 Lightning’s only configuration. The interior appears identical to the gas-operated model, which usually gets positive feedback from critics. Even the standard seats provide adequate support, and legroom in the rear row is generous.

The F-150 Lightning Platinum and Lariat trims boast a massive 15.5-inch touchscreen you won’t find in the regular F-150. Higher trims also feature Bang & Olufsen audio system and Ford’s new SuperCruise self-driving technology. And Ford’s updated SYNC 4 system will allow the F-150 Lightning to receive over-the-air software updates.

When will this new electric pickup truck come out?

Ford says that the F-150 Lightning should appear in showrooms by May 2022. The base model will start at $41,669, while the fully loaded Platinum trim will cost about $90,000. That’s quite an upcharge over a Ford F-150 Limited. But the battery’s efficiency and power make the Lightning an overall great deal.

RELATED: The 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning’s Biggest Surprise Comes Inside the Cabin

The post The 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning Is Good for the Environment in More Ways Than 1 appeared first on MotorBiscuit.

/by