Ford Shelby GT500 Mustang Beats Tesla Model S Plaid In A Drag Race

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Fans of the internal combustion engine are disheartened. This summer, the world has watched the Tesla Model S Plaid beat all competitors on the drag strip. Even trouncing the Dodge Demon. After enough videos, it began to look like no one could beat this electric sedan. Then Palm Beach Dyno stepped up to the challenge, and we got to watch as this Ford Shelby GT500 Mustang beats Tesla Model S Plaid in the quarter-mile.

Palm Beach Dyno

Florida | Photo by CHANDAN KHANNA/AFP via Getty Images

Ken Bjonnes is a veteran drag racer and mechanic. Bjonnes has been building cars to run ten-second quarter miles for almost twenty years. Some of his wildest projects include his old body style Mustangs and his F-150 SVT Lightning. After working for several racing teams, Bjonnes founded Palm Beach Dyno in Boynton Beach, Florida, in 2016.

Palm Beach Dyno offers both remote tuning and in-person dyno tuning to its customers. In addition, the Palm Beach Dyno team holds the records for the fastest drag car (both supercharged and overall) to use Ford’s 6R80 transmission. 

If anyone could beat the Model S Plaid in the quarter-mile, it would be Bjonnes and his team. But they would need a special car to do so.

The 2020 Ford Shelby GT500

Bjonnes began his latest drag racing project with a 2020 Ford Shelby GT500, CX1100R. The coupe came stock with a 5.2-liter supercharged V8. Bjonnes has been ramping up this build for a year and a half. His modifications include:

  • JLT intake.
  • Long-tube headers.
  • Fifth-generation 3.8L Whipple supercharger
  • Carbon fiber track pack

By the summer of 2021, Bjonnes’ drag-racing beast was running nine-second quarter miles. Moreover, the car’s tuned engine–rated at 1,100 horsepower–is powerful enough to break the occasional axle!

In July, Bjonnes took his car out on the drag racing circuit. On July 22nd, he was at the World Wide Technology Raceway in Madison, Illinois. The GT500 was running well, Bjonnes laying down decent times–then a Tesla Model S Plaid rolled onto the drag strip. A stock Tesla Model S Plaid can accelerate to 60 mph in two seconds and holds a world record. But Bjonnes did not back down: he challenged the electric supercar to a race.

Ford Shelby GT500 Mustang Beats Tesla Model S Plaid

The Drag Racing and Car Stuff Youtube channel was on hand to capture Bjonnes race the Tesla Model S Plaid. Their now-viral video shows two head-to-head races between the cars. Both races are very close, but in both races we can see the Shelby GT500 Mustang beats Tesla Model S Plaid.

These first two races feature a rolling start. Tesla fans have pointed out that much of the Model S Plaid’s speed comes from its incredible launch-control algorithm. So the Youtube channel included two more standing quarter-mile runs, one from each car. When both cars start from a standstill, the Ford Shelby GT500 is once again slightly quicker.

Bjonnes called his runs against the Tesla, “Awesome side by side racing.” He filmed his own video during the race. Later in the weekend’s MITM Elite event, the Tesla would go on to lay down a 9.08 second time at 154 mph, setting the Tesla Model S Plaid world record.

For Once, Mustang Beats Tesla

31 March 2020, Berlin: Andreas Lemmer, car mechanic and owner of his workshop, reaches for a wrench. Photo: Fabian Sommer/dpa (Photo by Fabian Sommer/picture alliance via Getty Images) A mechanic built 2020 Ford GT500 Mustang beat Tesla Model S Plaid in a drag race.
A mechanic’s workshop |Photo by Fabian Sommer/picture alliance via Getty Images

Not many people can say they built a drag-race-ready muscle car with their own hands, took it to the drag strip, and beat a record-setting Tesla Model S Plaid. Hates off to Bjonnes and his team! 

RELATED: How Ferrari Lost A Wheel At Le Mans 2021–And Finished The Race!

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R.I.P the Ford Bronco Truck Is Officially Canceled

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Just like a shooting star, it was here for a second, then gone. Poof, the Ford Bronco pickup truck is gone with the wind. We never even got the chance to see the Ford Bronco truck compete against the Jeep Gladiator. 

The Ford Bronco truck is no more 

Reportedly, Ford seemed to confirm that it was planning to build a Bronco truck sometime in the future. It was expected to arrive in 2023 or 2024. But according to Automotive News, the truck has been canceled. 

Ford spokesman Mike Levine declined to comment about the Ford Bronco truck. But he did share that Ford continues to see strong demand for the portfolio of rugged trucks and SUVs, including Bronco-brand utilities and the best-selling Ford truck lineup. 

Why is the Bronco truck not happening? 

We can only speculate as to why the Ford Bronco truck isn’t happening. It would have given Ford three pickup trucks smaller than the F-150, creating tons of competition. It could primarily take customers away from the Ford Ranger. 

Recently, the Ford Ranger has attempted to become a little tougher with the Tremor and Ranger package. But the variants of the Ranger that are on par with the Jeep Gladiator Rubicon are still only available in other countries. 

Ford could have their attention on the increasingly popular Ford Maverick. There are over 100,000 reservations for the hybrid model, and production is just beginning. We may see an off-roading Maverick trim arrive later.

Plus, the new Ford Bronco truck could only have gasoline powertrains. This would go against Ford’s goal to generate 50 percent of global sales with electric vehicles by 2030. To stick with the backing of the nonbinding federal target of emissions-free vehicles representing 50 percent of sales by 2030, Ford might be working on making the Bronco go electric instead of creating another new truck. 

On an exciting note, Ford executives have indicated that the Bronco family will expand beyond the two-door, four-door, and Sport models currently offered. Rumors suggest that high-performance and hybrid models could be on the way. 

What Bronco models can we expect? 

2021 Ford Bronco | Ford

Instead of the Ford Bronco truck, we might see the Warthog or Raptor. Allegedly, the Ford Bronco Raptor moniker and the Ford Bronco Warthog have been mentioned. Spy photos reveal a burly-looking model. 

It’s heavily covered under camouflage, so we can’t tell if it says FORD across the grille like other Raptor models. But you can see wider fender flares, larger tires, and an upgraded suspension in the front and rear. 

But the Warthog could also be the name of the Ford Bronco Hybrid. In spy shots of the possible Hybrid model, you can see a large orange high voltage (HV) cable wrapped around the transmission tunnel. This indicates that you might plug it in. 

The Bronco also has the unique exhaust found on other Ford electric vehicles during emissions testing. The possible Ford Bronco Hybrid model was spotted while entering an EPA facility. 

Part of the camouflage on the Hybrid model features a lightning bolt. This clue can’t be ignored with how Ford is following in Jeep’s easter egg footsteps. We’re keeping an eye on Ford Bronco models. While we know that the Ford Bronco truck is officially out, new exciting models could be on the way. 

RELATED: Do You Want A Ford Bronco? Wait For The 2023 Raptor Version

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Consumer Reports: The Most Discounted New Cars Right Now

by Gabrielle DeSantis

When it comes to buying a new car right now, the situation is quite stressful. Much like the housing market in areas, cars are moving off car lots at a rapid pace. Consumer Reports has compiled a list of the most discounted new cars right now and can offer a better deal.

Discounted new cars according to Consumer Reports

The Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 is one of Consumer Reports most discounted new cars | Mercedes-Benz

Consumer Reports checked recent transaction data and found where consumers were finding extra savings. This has offered more significant discounts, coupled with timely deals and brands trying to move products before the newer year vehicles show up.

A few of the most discounted new cars according to Consumer Reports

  1. Cadillac XT5
  2. Mercedes-Benz GLE 350
  3. Volkswagen Arteon SE
  4. Acura TLX SH
  5. Alfa Romeo Stelvio
  6. Cadillac XT6
  7. Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid
  8. Alfa Romeo Giulia
  9. Volkswagen Passat 2.0T
  10. BMW X3 xDrive30i

1. The Cadillac XT5 is one of the most discounted new cars

The Cadillac XT5 is one of Consumer Reports most discounted new cars

Right now, Consumer Reports says the 2021 Cadillac XT5 Luxury AWD is a good deal. It came in first on the list of luxury compact SUVs and offered an above-average road-test score. The predicted reliability and owner satisfaction was average, but it gets 20 mpg overall.

MSRP: $45,995
Average savings off MSRP: $5,677
Average transaction price: $40,318

2. 10% off for the Mercedes-Benz GLE 350

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 RWD is on the list of luxury SUVs. It also gets 20 mpg overall and scored well on the road test. The predicted reliability is below average, but the Mercedes is still a solid car. Overall, Consumer Reports thought it was a good choice for a discounted new car.

MSRP: $54,750
Average savings off MSRP: $5,597
Average transaction price: $49,153

3. A discounted new car option from VW, the Volkswagen Arteon SE

The 2021 Volkswagen Arteon SE gets 24 mpg overall and scored well on the Consumer Reports road test. It came in fifth on the list of luxury compact cars and scored OK on predicted reliability. It had average predicted owner satisfaction. The Arteon SE is 10% off, which is a pretty big discount for a new car right now.

MSRP: $36,995
Average savings off MSRP: $3,626
Average transaction price: $33,369

4. The Acura TLX SH is on sale

The 2021 Acura TLX SH-AWD with Technology Package is a pretty discounted new car. The TLX is on sale for about 9% right now and is a luxury compact car. The TLX scored well on the Consumer Reports road test and just OK on the predicted reliability.

MSRP: $43,500
Average savings off MSRP: $3,830
Average transaction price: $39,670

5. The Alfa Romeo Stelvio is a discounted new car

The 2021 Alfa Romeo Stelvio RWD is on the list of luxury compact SUVs on sale. Consumer Reports found that it had low predicted reliability, but it did well on the road tests. The Stelvio gets 24 mpg overall, 17 mpg on the highway, and 32 mpg overall.

MSRP: $42,350
Average savings off MSRP: $3,839
Average transaction price: $38,511

6. An all-wheel-drive option from Cadillac XT6

Don’t overlook the 2021 Cadillac XT6 Premium Luxury AWD vehicle! That might seem like a specific vehicle, but it will give you a better deal. The XT6 only gets 18 mpg overall but offers Cadillac luxury. It scored well on the road test, and the all-wheel drive option is a significant benefit that usually costs extra.

MSRP: $54,945
Average savings off MSRP: $4,773
Average transaction price: $50,172

7. The Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid is a good deal

Consumer Reports loves the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid. It is a green choice, scored high on the road test, and has above-average ratings. Both the predicted reliability and owner satisfaction are above average. It came in third on the list of midsize cars and gets 102 mpg.

MSRP: $33,400
Average savings off MSRP: $3,047
Average transaction price: $30,353

8. The Alfa Romeo Giulia is discounted

The 2021 Alfa Romeo Giulia AWD is another all-wheel drive option. The Alfa Romeo Giulia is a fun car that gets 27 mpg overall. It also had a high predicted owner satisfaction and a good score on the road test. At 8%, it is one of Consumer Reports’ most discounted new cars.

MSRP: $42,350
Average savings off MSRP: $3,378
Average transaction price: $38,972

9. The Volkswagen Passat 2.0T is leaving after this year

The 2021 Volkswagen Passat 2.0T R-Line is a popular car. The Volkswagen Passat gets 28 mpg overall and scored well on the road test. The predicted reliability and predicted owner satisfaction are both average. The Passat is a fun little car to drive and has a lot of technology to offer buyers, plus a discount.

MSRP: $29,995
Average savings off MSRP: $2,255
Average transaction price: $27,740

10. A luxury SUV option, the BMW X3 xDrive30i

The BMW X3 xDrive30i is 7% off right now. That might not seem like a lot, but it is for BMW. It scored well on the road test and has above-average predicted owner satisfaction. The predicted reliability was a bit below average, but that’s just life with a BMW. The X3 xDrive30i gets 24 mpg overall and can be had for under $42,000 right now.

MSRP: $45,000
Average savings off MSRP: $3,128
Average transaction price: $41,872

The most discounted new cars right now might not have huge discounts like consumers are used to seeing, but that’s a product of the supply chain shortage going on. Consumer Reports found these vehicles offered enough of a discount to make a difference, so don’t sleep on these deals!

RELATED: Consumer Reports Says You Should Consider Buying Your Leased Used Car

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Do ATVs Need Insurance?

by Gabrielle DeSantis

All-terrain vehicles are popular off-roaders. However, considering their dangerous reputation, you might wonder whether you should get insurance to cover your ATV. We take a look at the dangers of four-wheelers, the benefits of getting ATV insurance, and state insurance requirements.

ATVs can be dangerous and accident-prone

ATV | Marcos del Mazo/LightRocket via Getty Images

ATVs have a reputation for being dangerous, and this reputation is well-founded. Four-wheelers lack seatbelts and other safety features that normal vehicles have. Because of this, crashes can be more dangerous to the rider and passenger if the vehicle is a two-seater. It’s also more common for quads to flip, increasing the safety risks.

In addition, ATVs can be difficult to control, especially at high speeds or on rocky terrain. Even if you’re wearing safety equipment, you could still cause damage if the vehicle goes out of control. This is especially a risk for beginners and children, although even seasoned riders can find themselves in accidents.

What are the benefits of ATV insurance?

Given the dangers of these vehicles, insurance is highly recommended. ATV insurance covers four main facets: liability, collision, medical, and comprehensive coverage. For liability, you’ll need insurance if you injure someone with your four-wheeler. For collision damage, insurance covers the cost of repairing someone else’s vehicle or property. Medical coverage will cover your bills if you end up in the hospital after a four-wheeler accident. And as for comprehensive coverage, your vehicle is covered if it’s damaged for reasons outside of your control or stolen.

According to ValuePenguin, some of these facets are optional, and exact coverage will depend upon your insurance provider. Some might even provide coverage beyond the aforementioned ones. Typically, the more facets the insurance covers, the more it will cost. Many providers offer a variety of options, so be sure to compare plans. Typically, ATV insurance costs less than motorcycle insurance, for example, but the exact cost depends on the plan.

You might not want to get ATV insurance because you think your homeowners or car insurance will cover your quad. But most of the time, this is not the case. According to Allstate, car insurance doesn’t cover four-wheelers, and homeowners insurance usually provides only limited coverage if any. This will depend on the provider, so it’s best to ask if you’re unsure. However, it’s generally better to get ATV insurance for maximum coverage, especially if you’re a frequent user. But if you already have motorcycle insurance, some providers also cover ATVs.

State insurance requirements

Though you might decide to forgo ATV insurance despite the benefits, some states require it. For example, New York requires liability insurance for all four-wheeler owners.

According to the Long Island Recreational Trails Conservancy (LIRTC), New York law states, “Minimum required coverage is $50,000/$100,000 for death, $25,000/$50,000 for injury, and $10,000 for property damage in any one accident.”

In New York, you also must have proof of ATV insurance if you’re in an accident where either people or property are damaged.

However, many states have different requirements. These state laws have different variations of titling, registration, and insurance requirements. Some require that the vehicle is registered and titled but have no ATV insurance requirement. Some require insurance but don’t require proof.

In addition, some states have different age requirements for ATV operation or place limits on where you can drive. Be sure to check your state’s laws carefully to ensure your quad use is compliant.

RELATED: Do ATVs Need to Be Registered?

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