by Gabrielle DeSantis

The 80s was a great time for movie cars. Much like today, the 80s featured a great mix of quirky economy cars, muscle cars, and everything in between. People loved cars so much that they had starring roles on major TV shows at the time like “Knight Rider” and “Magnum P.I.” 

Though, television was not the only place where cool cars were front and center. More than a few movies from the 80s featured some of the most movie cars to grace the silver screen. Films like Ghostbusters, “Batman” and “Back To The Future.” There are too many to count but, for our fellow 80s kids, we are naming three of our favorite movie cars from the 80s.

The ‘ECTO-1’ from “Ghostbusters” 1984

A replica of the ‘ECTO-1’ from “Ghostbusters | Marc Piasecki/Getty Images

There are very few people in America who grew up in the 80s and were not aware of the Ghostbusters films. The original 1984 film was a blockbuster hit and spawned toys, a cartoon, and countless other merchandise. Ghostbusters was easily one of the most successful franchises of the 80s.

The one element of the film and cartoon that stood out to us the most was the “ECTO-1.” The ECTO-1 was the nickname given to the 1959 Cadillac Miller-Meteor Futura that the Ghostbusters drove around New York City to bust ghosts. The Ghostbusters used an ambulance version of the Futura, so the iconic siren sound is forever ingrained in the minds of Ghostbusters fans. It is truly one of the best movie cars ever made.

The ‘Batmobile’ from “Batman” 1989

The 'Batmobile' from the 1989 film "Batman." Seen here on display in a movie cars exhibit.
The ‘Batmobile’ from “Batman” 1989 | Andrew Beckford, MotorBiscuit

We realize that some may not consider the ‘Batmobile’ from Tim Burton’s “Batman” an “80s car,” but the film did come out in 1989, so technically, it makes the cut. Some of you reading this probably have distinct memories of sitting in the movie theater in 1989 and seeing that Batmobile for the first time. It is easily one of the most memorable film cars from that era.

Despite being such an iconic vehicle, there are many facts that most fans don’t know about the 1989 Batmobile. For example, the original car is built on a Chevrolet Impala chassis and had a V8 engine. It was not really jet-powered as depicted in the film. Another fun fact is that the headlights on the car are actually from a Honda Civic. The Batmobile can still be seen today at the Petersen Automotive Museum, where it is on display in a special movie cars exhibit.

The DeLorean from “Back To The Future” 1985

The DeLorean from the film "Back To The Future." Seen here in a movie cars exhibit.
The DeLorean from “Back To The Future” | Andrew Beckford, MotorBiscuit

There was no way we would make a list about our favorite movie cars from the 80s and not include the DeLorean from “Back To The Future.” The film’s producers chose the DeLorean because the car was in the news at the time and because of its looks. The stainless steel finish and gullwing doors added to the Delorean’s “not too distant future” aesthetic. 

The ironic part about a DeLorean being used as a time machine once it hits 88 mph is that in reality, the Delorean was not a fast car at all. At only 130 horsepower, it would take more time than expected for anyone to reach 88 mph while driving it. That did not matter for the film-going audience. The moment that the DeLorean leaves behind flaming tracks for the first time, millions of people were sold on it. The screen-used DeLorean is also on display right now at the Petersen Automotive Museum.

As previously mentioned, we know that there are plenty of other movie cars from the era that has made an impact on audiences around the world. We just wanted to highlight a few of our favorite 80s movie cars for nostalgia’s sake; even if it does date us.

RELATED: What Happens to Movie Cars After the Wrap Party

The post Three Of Our Favorite 80s Movie Cars appeared first on MotorBiscuit.

by Gabrielle DeSantis

If you’ve ever wanted to know about the Bugatti Chiron, you’re in luck. In this guide, we dive headfirst into the world of this insane supercar that’s been turning heads and sliding into celebrity garages for 100 years. And this smooth, classy, and fast machine has some incredible stats to back it up. Bugatti spares no expense and overlooks no detail when it comes to the Chiron.

You might want to sit down for some of its numbers too. Just reading about its speed and power might make you dizzy. Imagine how amazing it would be to drive one.

Bugatti cars are among the most impressive machines on 4 wheels

Bugatti Chiron | Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S.

Collectors and enthusiasts claim certain cars are the most impressive. And many of those cars come with Bugatti badges. Part of the allure lies within the automaker’s rich history and its founder, Ettore Bugatti. Auto Revolution says he never built or designed a car but rather “gave birth” to them. This rebellious and visionary genius brought an artisan’s touch to automobiles. And with expertise as a sculptor, woodcarver, painter, and silversmith, Bugatti was almost destined for greatness. 

Some of the earliest Bugatti models included the 1922 Cigar, with hydraulic brakes and an eight-cylinder engine that afforded it a second-place win at the AFT Grand Prix. The Type 32 came a year later, with its covered wheels and wing-looking design. It was dubbed “The Tank.” And the iconic brand continued to evolve and impress with every new model.

By 2002, Bugatti was ready to outdo itself yet again by introducing the 16-cylinder, four-turbo engine in the EB 16.4 Veyron. It became the most expensive production car of its time while holding the fastest production car title too.

Browse the Bugatti website, and you’ll see a few models, including the Divo, the La Voiture Noire, the Centodieci, and the EB 110.

But perhaps the most impressive in today’s lineup is the superbly stylish Chiron.

How much does a Bugatti Chiron cost?

If you were to buy a Bugatti Chiron today, you’d spend about $3 million. A car this fast isn’t cheap. But the multimillion-dollar price isn’t just to cover the cost of the mind-blowing engine and exclusivity. 

In addition to boasting meticulously engineered precision, the Bugatti Chiron is also assembled by hand by 20 dedicated workers, MotorTrend reports. And Bugatti insists designers collaborate with owners to create a car that matches their personalities. 

Bugatti Chiron price range

The Bugatti Chiron comes in various treatments and variations. There’s nothing entry-level about this car, but the Chiron starts at $2.998 million. Of course, customization and extras push the purchase price closer to $3.4 million or so, making it the most expensive production car.

The luxury automaker’s other Chiron models carry even higher price tags. For instance, the Chiron Sport retails for $3.3 million, the Chiron Pur Sport has an MSRP of $3.599 million, and the Chiron Super Sport goes for about $3.9 million. 

Bugatti points out that its hypercars are designed for lateral agility, with high speed and extreme luxury in mind. So writing that many zeros on your check means you’re buying the total Bugatti experience.

Is Bugatti Chiron the fastest car in the world?

The Chiron holds the record as the fastest commercial production car, TopSpeed reports. Just this year, Bugatti introduced the Chiron Super Sport 300+, and it dominated. Setting a new record, this Chiron clocked a face-numbing 304 mph.

There may be some lingering debate about this record because SSC claimed its Tuatara hit 331 mph. But as of this writing, those speeds are unverified and unsubstantiated. So the Bugatti Chiron retains its title of the fastest production car.

Other hypercar rivals include the Koenigsegg Agera RS, topping out at 278 mph, and the Hennessey Venom GT, with a 270-mph personal best.

To compare those with an American powerhouse: The 2021 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody can hit 203 mph.

But there’s more to learn about the Chiron. Keep reading for a closer look under the hood and in the cabin of this legend on four wheels.

The Bugatti Chiron engine is a beast

The Chiron isn’t for the faint of heart. When you look closer at what’s powering this supercar, you’ll realize you’re essentially strapping into drive a land rocket.

The engine is a quad-turbocharged 8.0-liter W16 designed for searingly fast driving and heart-pounding power. It’s made of titanium, carbon fiber, aluminum, magnesium, and other rare materials resistant to high heat.

And if that’s not beefy enough for you, rumor has it next year’s Chiron SS could be even more monstrous.

Expectedly, this powerful engine’s fuel economy is terrible, with 14 mpg on the highway and 9 mpg in the city. But face it — if you buy a Bugatti Chiron, you’re probably not worried about paying for gas.

Bugatti Chiron hp and torque will floor you

With its beastly engine and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, the 2021 Bugatti Chiron is incredibly potent. It produces 1,479 hp and 1,165 lb-ft torque, MotorTrend reports. Harnessing that kind of power allows this stylish supercar to reach top speeds of 261 mph. 

If you bump up to the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport, with its 16 cylinders (4,000 cubic centimeters) and quad turbochargers, you’ll get a whopping 1577 hp and 1,180 lb-ft of torque, according to Car and Driver. This model also has a redline of a mind-blowing 7,100 RPMs. And that’s not even the fastest Chiron.

The Chiron Super Sport 300+ is the ultimate master of speed. Bugatti says it aerodynamically optimized the body for low drag and improved stability at higher speeds. And the 8.0-liter W16 engine adds another 100 horses, allowing the Super Sport 300+ to break the 300-mph mark. It’s this family member that holds the world record as the fastest production car.

The Bugatti Chiron Super Sport dials up the thrills

The Bugatti Chiron Super Sport pays homage to its record-breaking speed. But this version features some revised bodywork to help it achieve its higher-than-average mph, Car and Driver reports. And with input from the popular racecar chassis builder Dallara, Bugatti extended the rear deck by 10 inches to reduce drag.

It also relocated the exhaust pipes from the middle to either side of the rear diffuser. There are even nine holes atop each fender to allow pressure release from the wheel wells.

The attention to these details and more help the Bugatti Super Sport dial up the thrills. Speed-loving, thrill-seeking Chiron owners opt for the Super Sport when performance is the priority, thanks to these upgrades and the increased horsepower.

Bugatti Chiron 0-60: Blink and you’ll miss it

So, how heart-pounding is the Chiron’s acceleration? Well, if you take 2.4 seconds to blink, you’ll miss this car reaching 60 mph from a standstill. The Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport can accelerate from 0 to 60 in under 2.3 seconds and hit 124 mph in about 5.9 seconds.

The beastly Super Sport can reach 273 mph, but that’s with a speed limiter installed. And it can scorch earth at these intense acceleration rates.

Bugatti Chiron 0-100 time

When critics set out to test new rides, they typically put each car through the paces. And for those testing the Bugatti Chiron, it was probably an intense day on the track. The Chiron can accelerate from 0 to 100 mph in a face-numbing 4.4 seconds. It roars to 150 mph in 8.6 seconds and reaches 200 mph in 15.7 seconds, making it the fastest model that Car and Driver has ever tested.

Those who own a Bugatti Chiron certainly appreciate its prowess on the pavement and the sweet sound of the robust engine under the sleek hood. But this insane supercar, believe it or not, still has more to offer than goosebump-inducing speed and performance.

Another famed Bugatti characteristic is world-class luxury, which perfectly complements the Chiron’s speed.

Bugatti Chiron Hermès: A marvel 3 years in the making

Have you heard of the Bugatti Chiron Hermès? This customized supercar came from the vision of renowned California car collector Manny Khoshbin and a collaboration between the French luxury goods maker Hermès and Bugatti. The car took three years to complete, and the finished product is nothing short of stunning.

Car and Driver says the ultra-special Hermès model drips with style and is utterly unique from any other Chiron. The limited-edition car features an off-white Hermès exterior paint, customized cashmere fabric on the interior door panels, and a one-of-a-kind horseshoe grille. To commemorate the project, newly designed badges dot the cabin.

The Bugatti Chiron Hermès demonstrates the automaker’s dedication to designing high-end cars to customer specifications and personalized preferences. And taking three years to do it proves these cars are meticulously crafted.

The Bugatti Chiron interior: Step into a whole new world

Climbing inside a Bugatti Chiron will have you feeling as if you’re stepping into an entirely new world. With special features like LED illumination and a Sky View roof, offering large glass panels above both seats, you’ll feel like the ultimate VIP. 

Bugatti calls the Chiron’s interior the epitome of function and beauty. This supercar provides a mechanical speedometer and adjustable displays. And each Chiron comes with handpicked leather and precious metals, designed to precisely complement the uniqueness of the car’s owner. From engravings to embroidery, every detail is considered during production.

In the world of ultra-luxury, precision performance, and record-breaking speeds, there may be no other automobile that can match the Bugatti Chiron. It’s not the supercar for everyone, thanks to its hefty price tag. But it’s definitely a work of art that everyone can appreciate and respect, even if only from a distance.

RELATED: There’s Just No Need for the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+ to Exist

The post Bugatti Chiron: Everything You Need to Know About This Insane Supercar appeared first on MotorBiscuit.

by Gabrielle DeSantis

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz is the new hot truck. Or is it? Frankly, it’s hard to tell right now. Models are listed for well above sticker, but is that because of demand or dealers? Per usual, the semiconductor shortage has a lot to do with it, as does the easing (for now) of pandemic restrictions. Buyers want vehicles to get out and about in, but it seems that dealers want their taste before that can happen. Question is, can Hyundai help?

Markups make the car

Dealers could be hurting new car sales | Paul Hennessy via Getty Images

Frankly, it seems that anything worth its salt is either delayed into the next century or marked up so high that only Jeff Bezos can afford it. This is why. Dealers often operate off contracts. A manufacturer (Hyundai) agrees to sell their models through an individual business, outlined in a contract. Per that contract, the dealer becomes, say, John Smith Hyundai of Santa Cruz. Now, Mr. Smith can sell cars for Hyundai. He can also decide (within reason) how much to sell those cars for. However, that discretion can sometimes be abused for the sake of profit margins.

We’ve seen it abused before with dealers selling Honda Civic Type Rs for close to $70,000. Now, what we’re looking at with the Hyundai Santa Cruz isn’t nearly as bad. On Autotrader, there’s around 300 new Santa Cruz trucks listed for sale. The majority of those are right around sticker. Call it $35,000 on average. However, some are coming up near $50,000 for a truck that should at most, cost right around the mid-40s.

Is the Hyundai Santa Cruz worth the markup?

A bike hangs out the back of a Hyundai Santa Cruz truck
Nothing says “adventure” like things in a truck bed | Hyundai

So, is this $40,000 truck worth nearly 50 Gs? Well, the reviews say yes. Journalists love the weird little quirks and features, and the smaller form factor. The market is awash with massive trucks, and frankly, most people don’t need them. The Hyundai Santa Cruz is a small, practical, efficient, cool-looking crossover with a truck body. Hyundai put a lot of effort into fitting truck features into a smaller form factor, and it paid off.

Of course, all this to say nothing of the styling. Sure, looks are subjective, but this is an objectively good-looking truck. It’s not bloated or too square. The Hyundai Santa Cruz leans on the three-box design philosophy without using it as a crutch. Does that mean it’s a $50,000 truck? Hell. NO. Please, do not succumb to that ever-present need for instant gratification we all have. Save your money and wait for the market to chill out a little.

What can manufacturers do to help?

The Santa Cruz's tailgate photographed in, well, Santa Cruz
The Santa Cruz in Santa Cruz | Hyundai

Understandably, this makes people like me, and consumers as a whole, pretty miffed. I want to give Hyundai my money for this truck, but I don’t want to give Tony Soprano Hyundai of Santa Cruz their taste. So, can Hyundai help? Well, it depends largely on the terms of that contract, which are known only to a few people. In short, it takes a lot of legalese to work out something like this. It all comes down to how much work Hyundai is willing to do. For now, we’ll just have to wait and see.

RELATED: Why the Toyota Highlander Sold Like Hotcakes Last Month

The post The 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz Falls to Dealer Markups appeared first on MotorBiscuit.

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Heavy-duty trucks are designed for big jobs, but today’s models also provide a nice environment. Chevrolet’s heavy-duty trucks include the Silverado 2500 HD and Silverado 3500 HD. Though the 2021 Chevy Silverado HD already boasts a long list of comfort features, one convenience is now available on more trim levels of the 2022 Silverado HD.

The comfort and convenience features in the 2021 Chevy Silverado HD

2022 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD | Chevrolet

Today’s trucks might be known for their power and capabilities, but the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado HD also provides plenty of comfort and convenience. Several features were new in the 2021 Silverado HD, making the truck easier to use. A jackknife alert warns about the risk of this situation happening. Also, a trailer-length indicator makes it easier to change lanes while towing a trailer. And a cargo-bed view enhancement makes attaching a fifth-wheel trailer simpler, Car and Driver reports.

Silverado HD trucks offer abundant options so that buyers can get what they’re looking for. Available features include a heated steering wheel, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and a head-up display. The cabin provides plenty of storage space, including a large center console bin. Also available are storage compartments located beneath the rear seats and storage bins in the back of the rear-seat cushions.

In addition, the 2021 Chevy Silverado HD comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A seven-inch touchscreen is standard, but an eight-inch touchscreen is available. The larger screen includes a seven-speaker Bose audio system, a Wi-Fi hotspot, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, and wireless charging. The infotainment system can also store trailer profiles, making monitoring maintenance and controlling trailer functions easy through an app.

This 2022 Chevy Silverado HD feature will please drivers and passengers

The 2022 Chevrolet Silverado HD will offer a coveted convenience feature across more trims. A 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat is now an available option in the 2022 Silverado 2500 HD Custom trim, GM Authority reports. This feature will come with the Custom Convenience package and require a 120-volt instrument panel power outlet.

The five available trims are Work Truck, LT, Custom, LTZ, and High Country. The Custom trim will be available for the 2500 HD. As in the previous model year, the power-adjustable driver’s seat is an option on the LT trim, and it comes standard on the LTZ and High Country.

In addition, a power-adjustable front passenger’s seat is standard on the LTZ and High Country trims.

Everything else we know about the new HD trucks

Chevrolet redesigned Silverado HD for the 2020 model year and is expected to re-update its most popular truck for 2024. The 2022 model offers only small variations to the 2021 version. Changes include the availability of the power-adjustable driver’s seat on the Custom trim. For 2022, a new Greenstone metallic paint color is also available, Car and Driver reports, and the six-function Multi-Flex tailgate comes standard.

The power-adjustable seat is part of the Convenience package, which for 2022 also provides a heated steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, LED cargo-bed lighting, remote start, and additional features. Though the power-adjustable driver’s seat is now available in more trims, the microchip shortage has affected some convenience features. The available heated second-row outboard seats have only limited availability, GM Authority reports. In addition, HD Radio is currently not available.

Along with comfort, the Silverado HD also provides plenty of power. The 2022 Silverado 2500 HD and 3500 HD come standard with a gas-powered 6.6-liter V8 engine and a six-speed automatic transmission, producing 401 hp and 464 lb-ft of torque. A Duramax diesel 6.6-liter V8 engine is also available. Paired with a new 10-speed automatic transmission, it harnesses 445 hp and a whopping 910 lb-ft of torque.

Either engine can pair with rear- or all-wheel drive and either single- or dual-rear-wheel axle. (Only the 3500 HD is available as a dually.) Maximum towing is 36,000 pounds with the 3500 HD and 18,510 pounds with the 2500 HD, Chevrolet claims. And when properly equipped, the 3500 HD can haul a payload of up to 7,442 pounds.

The 2022 Silverado 2500 HD starts at $35,300, and the 2022 Silverado 3500 HD starts at $36,500. Those are reasonable prices for powerful and comfortable trucks aimed to please all occupants.

RELATED: The 3 Safest Full-Size Pickup Trucks of 2021 According to MotorTrend

The post The 2022 Chevy Silverado HD Adds a Coveted Convenience Feature to Some Trims appeared first on MotorBiscuit.