The new Nissan Z will probably hit dealerships in about a year from the time this article is published. The chances are that if you’re reading this, you are interested in picking up the 2023 Nissan Z, or you may be ready to buy right now. There is also a good chance that a significant portion of you are the type to not keep your car stock for very long.
If you are who we think you are, you intend to modify that Nissan Z coupe as soon as you get your hands on it. You may not be sure what parts to start with. We have a few meaningful suggestions that we think you can benefit from without going overboard.
An OBD ECU tuning device
Cobb Access Port ECU tuner | Cobb Tuning
There will be a lot of Nissan Z owners who spring for major engine performance parts right away. Some will go for larger turbos; others will look for larger intercoolers. While parts like that can add considerable power, they are pretty expensive and can affect the daily drivability of the car. There are other ways to increase power and even responsiveness without changing any parts under the hood, such as an ECU tuner.
An ECU tuner is an external device that plugs into a car’s OBD II port. Once plugged in, it is capable of changing the parameters of a car’s stock ECU software. It can remove the speed limiter, change ignition maps, and on turbocharged cars, they can even change boost pressure.
Be warned; the actual tuning should only be done by a professional. Changing parameters on a car’s ECU when you do not know what you’re doing can be disastrous and potentially cause severe damage to the engine. Also, make sure you check state laws and regulations before tuning your ECU. In California, ECU tuning results in automatic failed smog checks.
Wheels and performance tires
Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 Tires | Michelin
The 2023 Nissan Z will undoubtedly come with tires that are great for daily driving and will have respectable performance on the occasional track day. However, since those tires have to do double duty, their performance will lean much harder toward street driving than track driving. Tires are pivotal for exploiting a car’s full performance potential.
Having a spare set of wheels wrapped with track-minded tires is a great way to make sure you experience everything your Nissan Z has to offer. If you do not want to swap wheels out, you can just buy high-performance tires for the stock wheels. Just be aware that track-focused tires may not handle very well in wet weather; so they can be dangerous to use on public streets.
Blow-off valve (BOV)
GReddy Blow-Off Valve | GReddy
We admit that this suggestion is mostly just for fun and vanity. A blow-off valve (BOV) relieves any remaining boost pressure in the intake when the throttle is closed. A BOV can prevent a backpressure surge which may damage the turbochargers. Most modern turbo cars come with a blow-off valve from the factory.
However, aftermarket BOVs do things a little differently. They still protect the turbos by relieving excess pressure, but they do it with an audible “whoosh” sound bound to turn some heads if you’re into that kind of thing.
There are countless other ways to modify your Nissan Z once you bring it home from the dealership. The right modifications to make will depend on what you want to do to make your car your own, but we hope our suggestions help you figure out which way you want to go.
https://news.usamotorjobs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/cobb-access-port-ecu-tuner-1200x675-2-1.jpg6751200Gabrielle DeSantishttps://news.usamotorjobs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/logo-usa-motor-jobs-white.pngGabrielle DeSantis2021-08-22 19:00:002021-08-22 19:28:07First Modifications You Should Do To Your 2023 Nissan Z
The Ford Mustang is an iconic American muscle car, becoming more powerful with every generation. In addition to the base model, drivers can experience the upgraded thrills of other trims and Shelby GT models. There are also memorable classic versions, such as the Mustang 5.0.
Depending on how you view it, the original pony car can be pleasantly affordable or shockingly expensive. Our ultimate Ford Mustang price guide breaks down how much the various models cost.
Ford Mustang price ranges vary widely
Ford Mustang Mach 1 fastback coupe | Ford Motor Company
The new Ford Mustang is available in 10 variations, the cheapest of which can be had for under $30,000. There’s also the EcoBoost Premium, which starts at $32,225 and boasts many desirable interior upgrades. The more powerful Ford Mustang GT has a 460-hp V8. And the GT Premium gets the same extras as the EcoBoost Premium.
Next up is Ford Mustang Mach 1, packing the same engine but making 20 hp more and offering several sportier elements. For instance, the Mach 1 boasts Brembo brakes and an active exhaust system, plus a special decklid spoiler. This Stang retails for $53,400.
The EcoBoost, EcoBoost Premium, GT Premium, and Mach 1 models also come in convertible body styles for $5,500 extra.
The Ford Mustang Shelby GT500, the most expensive in the lineup, retails for over $70,000.
If all of that wasn’t confusing enough, the base Ford Mustang can also be purchased with a 2.3L Performance package, boosting it to 330 hp instead of 310 hp. Other upgrades include a performance suspension, racing tires, active exhaust, and paddle shifters with the automatic transmission.
The cheaper Handling package can provide an adaptive suspension, a limited-slip differential, and a stylish rear spoiler.
Another package, GT Performance, offers all the same features for the GT and GT Premium models.
Finally, the Carbon Fiber Handling package is available exclusively for the GT500. It adds carbon fiber wheels for an additional $10,000.
The Mustang car price is in line with other muscle cars
The Chevy Camaro, one of the Ford Mustang’s biggest rivals, offers a slightly cheaper base model. Still, at 275 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, it also produces less power than the Stang. The Camaro 1LT costs only $500 more and lets you upgrade to a 332-hp engine. And upgrading to a convertible is more expensive for Camaro models, costing $6,000, according to Chevrolet.
The Chevy Camaro 2LT costs $2,000 more and comes with a handful of extra comfort features. Next up is the Camaro 3LT, which starts at $31,500 and provides a Bose stereo and a head-up display. This trim is also the first one with standard safety features, including forward-collision warning and rear cross-traffic alert.
The Camaro LT1 is comparable to the Ford Mustang GT. It comes with a 455-hp V8 engine, Brembo brakes, and a performance suspension. The Camaro SS also gets the V8 and all the convenience features of the lower trims.
But the Camaro ZL1 leads the pack, retailing for $63,000 to $69,000 depending upon the body style. It gets a supercharged 650-hp V8 with several mechanical enhancements to match.
Another Mustang rival, the 2021 Dodge Challenger has a higher starting price than both competitors at $28,870, the Dodge website shows. The Challenger is one of the few muscle cars today to offer all-wheel drive with its base engine. This motor makes 305 hp, while the Hemi V8 comes standard on the Challenger R/T for $35,570.
The RT Scat Pack trim, retailing for $41,645, brings a larger V8 and many fun bits of racing equipment. And the other three trims mainly differ in power. The brawniest — the Challenger Super Stock — harnesses 807 hp and starts at $82,270.
How much is the cheapest Mustang?
The cheapest new 2021 Ford Mustang is the EcoBoost Fastback, retailing for $27,205 without optional packages. Its turbo-four, paired with a six-speed manual transmission, makes 310 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. You can also option it with a 10-speed automatic, which Ford says improves acceleration.
Swapping out the manual for the automatic gearbox will also give you the best gas mileage — 21/32 mpg combined city/highway. The base engine gets good acceleration, Autotrader says, but it can’t always keep its momentum. Autotrader also gripes that the engine’s growl doesn’t quite complement the Mustang as much as the V8 options.
However, testers also agreed the smaller engine gives the 2021 Mustang the best handling. It corners exceptionally well, with weighted steering for its performance modes and less heft for daily driving. The brakes kick in quickly at higher speeds, though some critics felt they didn’t work as well in regular traffic. Ride quality is also surprisingly smooth and cushy for a muscle car.
The Ford Mustang EcoBoost isn’t too fancy on the inside, but it’s still charming in its simplicity. Trained pros will spot the plastic components scattered about, but the chrome finishing on the dashboard is eye-catching. The Ford Mustang EcoBoost coupe can seat four riders on cloth upholstery.
There’s not much room for drivers to truly stretch out, but at least the seats are supportive. The infotainment system is voice-controlled, equipped with a Wi-Fi hotspot and FordPass. Drivers who spring for the optional technology packages get a touchscreen interface with smartphone integration.
The Mustang Fastback is an even better value in 2021, thanks to all of its advanced safety features. They include forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and several other functions. The only two driver assists that don’t come standard are adaptive cruise control and rear parking sensors.
The Ford Mustang GT price varies by model
Two Ford Mustang GT trims are available for the 2021 model year, with the GT fastback starting at $36,285. The 460-hp V8 has a more satisfying exhaust note and a healthy 0-to-60-mph time under four seconds. Autotrader reports that the GT models are slightly more nose-heavy, but it doesn’t severely affect performance.
Like the EcoBoost, the GT offers a six-speed manual or a 10-speed automatic transmission. The manual option comes with special rev-matched gearshifts. In addition, all Mustang GTs come standard with heavy-duty front springs, a bigger sway bar, and optimized chassis tuning. Ford offers a performance kit with even more track goodies.
The Ford Mustang GT also has the same comfort features as the EcoBoost Premium trim. They include partial-leather heated and ventilated seats that are power-adjustable.
The Ford Mustang GT Premium starts at $40,285 for the coupe and $45,785 for the convertible. The 10-speed automatic comes standard for this trim unless the buyer selects otherwise. It also comes with all-leather seats and every optional technology offering.
Sit down for the Mustang Shelby GT500 price
Ford sells the 2021 Mustang Shelby GT500 only as a coupe. Starting at $72,900, it comes with a supercharged V8 capable of 760 hp and 625 lb-ft of torque. It pairs with an exclusive seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, but you can opt for the six-speed manual.
The Mustang Shelby GT500 is unsurprisingly the fastest model, reaching 60 mph in 3.4 seconds, Car and Driver reports. This Mustang even outraced popular high-performance models from Porsche and Jaguar during C/D’s Lightning Lap event. It’s also a great daily driver thanks to its standard adaptive dampers.
The Shelby GT500 can be optioned with a few packages, starting with the $1,500 Handling upgrade. This includes only splitter wickers for the Mustang’s face and a gurney flap for the rear wing. The Carbon Fiber Handling package costs $10,000 and adds black carbon fiber wheels.
An oil catch can and strut top mounts are also included, plus the contents of the Handling package. The Carbon Fiber Track Pack comes with all of those features plus a carbon-fiber wing and instrument panel. Drivers also get access to bolstered Recaro sports seats. With that upgrade, a fully loaded Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 costs a grand total of $91,400.
The Ford Mustang 5.0 price: A ’90s flashback
If you don’t feel like splurging on the Shelby GT500, the Mustang 5.0 might be a more attractive alternative. This model features the iconic Fox body that Ford produced between 1979 and 1993. “You can snag a good condition ’90s-era 5.0 for less than $8,000,” InsideHook reports.
After cycling out a few V8 engines, Ford determined the best one to make 225 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque. This allowed the Mustang 5.0 to reach 60 mph in about six seconds and the quarter-mile in 14 seconds. Its top speed taps out at 140 mph, only 15 mph slower than the 2021 Ford Mustang EcoBoost.
Any Mustang 5.0 that Ford built in 1986 and beyond has that engine, offered in two trims. The reserved LX trim can be found as a two-door coupe or a convertible. According to MotorTrend, this was the Mustang’s first generation with convertible body styles.
The Mustang GT models of this era were available as a convertible or hatchback and came with extensive suspension tuning. The Mustang 5.0 also boasted chrome-tipped exhaust pipes and exclusive paint colors.
All models come equipped with a durable five-speed manual transmission. Despite its larger backside, it was said to have better handling than the competing Camaro at the time. It was also more agile around corners thanks to its lighter engine.
According to CarEdge, the Ford Mustang depreciates by only 38% after five years. That reduces the average Mustang’s value to around $22,518, assuming the car remains in good condition with low yearly mileage. It still keeps over 36% of its value after 10 years, and older Mustangs are known for maintaining their impressive performance.
Edmunds cites even lower depreciation rates after five years at $11,958. Annual maintenance around its fourth year is slightly more expensive than rivals, around $2,000. But repairs cost only $740 annually after five years, with the first two years covered by Ford’s warranty.
Most Ford Mustang examples can make it to 200,000 miles. At a rate of 15,000 miles per year, that means you’ll keep the Mustang for a little over 13 years. However, some drivers have reported their older Mustangs living up to 400,000 miles with minimal repairs.
Corroding paint seems to be one of the few major issues on Mustangs starting at around 48,000 miles. Rust typically appears around the 10-year mark. Experts speculate that cosmetic issues are common with Ford vehicles because undercoating isn’t used in the painting process.
Still, a Ford Mustang will last a long time when properly maintained and repaired. Whether you’re thinking of buying the base EcoBoost or the beastly GT500, each will be worth the money in terms of performance.
It’s no big secret that Honda is in fact a Japanese company. But now that it’s a staple in the American automotive market, many of its vehicles are built right here in the USA. In fact, the Honda Pilot, Honda Ridgeline, and Honda Odyssey are three of the most American-made vehicles on US soil. But are Honda off-road vehicles actually made in America?
2021 Honda CRF450X | Honda Powrsports
Are favorites like the Honda Recon ATV, Honda Talon UTV, and Honda CR dirt bikes factory-built here in the states? Or elsewhere? Let’s do a little dive into where Honda Powersports creates its lovable lineup.
Which ATVs are made in America?
Honda Recon ATV is an off-road vehicle made in America | Honda Powersports
According to Crow Survival, the most widely manufactured ATV and UTV companies in America are Can-Am and Polaris. However, that doesn’t mean that Honda doesn’t make off-road vehicles in the U.S. too. In fact, Honda of South Carolina just celebrated the production of its three millionth ATV this July, according to Honda Powersports News.
While the Honda Powersports team does work closely with engineers in Japan’s Honda Powersports division, Honda ATVs and UTVs are made in America. The company depends on both the expertise in Japan and the United States in order to develop and improve products. But Honda’s off-road ATVs intended for U.S. markets are made right here on American soil.
Honda Powersports USA relies on “its capable U.S. footprint for development and production.” With efforts in both Japan and the U.S. coming together, Honda is able to continue production of legendary off-road products in a growing market for outdoor recreation.
Where is the Honda Talon built?
2021 Honda Talon 1000X | Honda Powersports
In order to compete head on with the popular Polaris RZR, Honda designed the Talon UTV. This side-by-side (SXS) comes in both two-door and four-door versions. It’s a 999 cc engine Honda off-road vehicle with plenty of power for both work and fun. But where is the Honda Talon built?
According to Honda Powersports, the Honda Talon is “made in the USA.” Still the entire project is international. Jeremy McGuire, the Chief Engineer of Development Planning in Marysville, OH, says that “the engine and transmission is still ultimately the responsibility of HGA (Honda Giken Asaka, or Honda Japan).” McGuire has been with Honda since 1999, so it’s safe to say that he understands the way things work when it comes to Honda’s product development.
However, Japan’s responsibility in terms of Honda’s U.S. Powersports products ends with the transmission and engine. McGuire says, “They supply the engine and we develop everything else around it. The Ohio side is 100% responsible for the final Complete Build Unit. We’re responsible for the entire frame, body, plastics, electrical and suspension, with U.S. associates led by the project leaders within the respective function groups. Of course we have Japanese technical experts who are there also, but the development itself is largely led by U.S. staff.”
Other than the engine and transmission in the Honda Talon, Honda’s U.S. Powersports department is in charge of the development and production of the Talon and other off-road vehicles. Additionally, the Honda Talon and other ATVs and SXS products are made in Honda of South Carolina facilities.
Honda’s first “made in America” product dates back to 1979 with the Maryville, OH production of the CR250M Elsinore. Since then, the plant remains a staple of Honda’s U.S. production. However, it’s now an automotive plant, and motorcycles, ATVs, and dirt bikes are no longer manufactured there.
Since motorcycle production ended there in 2009, all of Honda’s motorcycles and dirt bikes are manufactured in the Japanese plant in Kumamoto, according to Rider Magazine. So, while Honda’s other off-road vehicles are manufactured in South Carolina, the dirt bikes like the CR, CRF, CB, and Honda Trail bikes as well as all of its motorcycles are made in Japan and shipped to the states.
The Hummer holds a special place among cars in the history books of the automotive industry. Inspired by military vehicles, the rugged all-terrain truck allowed civilians to leave the pavement behind for fantastic off-road adventures. However, the Hummer eventually fell by the wayside when consumers started seeking more affordable alternatives, and the line was discontinued.
Now, the sturdy and sizeable model is back and better than ever. The all-new Hummer is powered by electricity, leaving industry analysts to wonder what the future holds for EVs.
The history of the Hummer
The AM General Hummer | Joe Raedle/Getty Images
The first Hummer, inspired by military Humvee trucks, came off the assembly line in 1992. According to Business Insider, the military vehicles were known as “jeeps on steroids,” with the capabilities to “ascend 60% grades, roll through 30 inches of water, and climb up a 22-inch step.”
In 1999, GM purchased the civilian version of the Humvee and rebranded the truck to be called the Hummer H1. The tank-like truck weighed 7,000 pounds and only got 10 MPG. Adjustable tire pressure, diesel engine options, and off-road locking differentials made it a force to be reckoned with. However, demand was low for the H1, with less than 12,000 units sold in its 14-year tenure.
In 2002, a new lighter H2 version of the Hummer was revealed, offering a consumer-friendly price tag built on a pickup truck platform. Four years later, the H3 debuted, straying far from its original military branding. Standing on the Chevy Colorado platform, the smaller Hummer was shorter and much narrower than its predecessors. The starting price of $29,500 made the H3 an appealing choice for off-road enthusiasts, with an estimated fuel economy of 20 MPG.
Why it disappeared
In 2009, General Motors filed for bankruptcy. As part of the reorganization deal, the H2 line was phased out. GM unsuccessfully attempted to sell the Hummer brand to a Chinese automaker. Then, production of the H3 ended in February 2010. According to MotorTrend, “The last Hummer built is believed to be a black H3T, the pickup version of the smaller, Chevy Colorado-based H3.”
Consumers were no longer interested in purchasing giant gas guzzlers, instead turning their interest toward crossover SUVs. As gas prices rose and GM continued to have financial issues, the Hummer line collapsed.
In 2017, the first electric H1 prototype, built by Kreisel Electric, was unveiled. As of January 2020, General Motors is back on board with the all-electric Hummer pickup and ready to compete against Tesla, Nikola, and Rivian trucks.
Investopedia announced the truck would be known as the GMC Hummer EV with an electric SUV called the Hummer EV SUV. A pickup truck sub-brand will be called the Hummer EV SUT. The base model will have a starting price of $79,995.
Like a Phoenix rising from the ashes, the Hummer is back and better than ever before with the all-new GMC Hummer EV. According to the GMC‘s website, the SUT pickup truck will produce an astounding 1,000 hp and up to 11,500 lb-ft of torque. The new Hummer will also punch 0 to 60 mph in three seconds and has an estimated 300+ mile range.
The all-new 2022 GMC Hummer EV picks up where the discontinued line left off. Car Scoops says the challenge for GM designers “was to create something instantly familiar but new.” The utilitarian interior of the H3 has been replaced by a futuristic look that includes a 12.3″ infotainment center display and 18 camera view Ultravision system to navigate any terrain.
Jalopnik explains the arrival of the Hummer EV means electric vehicles are here to stay and quickly becoming a part of the mainstream. This new generation of all-electric vehicles is pushing “ecological awareness” aside, searching for the same traits that impress us with gas-powered automobiles. They noted, “We’re now in the era where EVs get promoted and advertised and understood with the same delirious irrationality as any other car out there.”
https://news.usamotorjobs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/AM-General-Hummer-1024x675-1.jpg6751024Gabrielle DeSantishttps://news.usamotorjobs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/logo-usa-motor-jobs-white.pngGabrielle DeSantis2021-08-22 17:36:002021-08-22 17:56:31The Old Hummer’s Tragic Death Was Necessary to Come Back Stronger
