Driving InforMation

2005 Corvette LS2 400 hp engine

2007-09-04T23:31:00.000-07:00

The new Corvette has a 400 hp engine so notable named the LS2. The predecessor was the LS1 model at a mere 350 hp. This engine along with aerodynamics allows this Corvette to have the highest top speed of any Corvette, including the exotic ZR-1 model from the early 1990’s. This new engine is all aluminum and with the Z51 package, allows the fastest acceleration of any model currently available.

The team considered using a 405 hp LS6 engine, but it had a lot of special components in it to get that horsepower. They were afraid that the cam might have been too aggressive for everyday street driving. When the team finished, they came up with a 400 hp engine at 6,000 RPM. The engine also boasts 25 lb-ft greater torque than the previous engine. Torque numbers are 400 lb-ft at 4,400 RPM. Now the engine is larger. The engine displacement increased from 346 cu in to 364 cu in. This was accomplished by a larger cylinder bore of 101.6mm. The stroke remained the same at 92mm. The LS2 also uses a higher lift cam and stronger valve springs. Another engine feature is the throttle body has been increased from 75mm to 90mm which allows more air into the engine. Couple all of this together with new flat top pistons at a higher compression of 10.9:1 and faster responding fuel and engine management computers results in one of the most advanced engines GM ever put in a car.

Other interesting features in the overall layout of the engine included moving the engine 1” forward. 1”? What could that do? Actually, it allowed for a better exhaust system, which in turn gave the car more power. There is more than enough power to exceed the traction of the rear tires. But cornering also had to be considered in the engine design. If the car is capable of 1.0+ G’s in maximum cornering, this is the equivalent of turning the engine on its side at 45 degrees. The team made a different windage tray and oil pickup to control the lubrication system during spirited driving. Redesigning also allowed the team to eliminate the “gull-wing” oil pan of older models leaving room for more exhaust work to further tune the engine.

But how did all of these modifications effect the overall gas consumption? The new Corvette can get 23 mpg on the combined EPA city/highway test. That’s better than the 320 hp Porsche 911 at 20 mpg. Forget the 400 hp Ferrari Modena at 12 mpg.

This new engine has been totally redesigned for the Corvette enthusiast and shows a tremendous effort GM has put forth for this new model. This is by far the best Corvette ever produced.

Auto Parts Corner Promotes Safe and Responsible Driving

2007-09-04T23:29:00.000-07:00

When you drive, you are not only responsible for your own safety but as well as the safety of your passengers and other people including drivers of other cars, their passengers, pedestrians crossing the road and those on the sidewalks. Having responsibilities as huge as these isn’t a joke; thus, one must be serious in following traffic rules and keeping his auto away from accidents as much as possible.

Auto Parts Corner values your safety more than other auto parts stores do. It promotes safe and responsible driving by featuring the finest safety car parts for various makes and models in its site, believing that car accidents can be prevented by using auto parts that are reliable and durable. This top-notch Auto Parts Wholesale store uplifts drivers’ awareness of their responsibilities by emphasizing the importance of quality of the parts more than their affordability.

Even so, Auto Parts Corner offers the best deals on all its parts including the best line of Ford parts, Mercedes parts, BMW parts, Volkswagen parts, Lexus parts and Land Rover parts. As it encourages auto users to use replacement auto parts that have passed the industry’s highest standards and have been made by the most experienced auto parts manufacturers, it keeps its prices within reach of ordinary consumers.

What are in store in this comprehensive Auto Parts Wholesale shop?

Headlights. Many accidents happen due to lack of visibility resulting from the car’s poor lighting; thus these auto parts are essential to every driver’s safety. Driving without them especially at night, in poorly lit areas or in worst weather conditions is extremely dangerous. Install high quality lamps for your car, truck, minivan, or SUV. You can find in this store high beam Toyota headlights, Ford Headlights, Chevy tail lights, Honda tail light and more.

Bumpers and fenders. During a collision, the body parts are among the most prone to damages. They get smashed beyond repair in many instances. Because of this, they need to be extra tough and durable so as to prevent further damage to the vehicle’s interior and most especially to the occupants. The store offers high grade Jeep bumpers, Mazda bumpers, GMC bumpers, BMW fender flares, Chevy fender flares and thousands of other durable body parts for various car makes and models. These parts are also excellently crafted giving your vehicle a stylish look.

Mirrors. Like auto lights, these small auto parts are essential to safe driving. They serve as your “eyes” while driving. Some areas in the vehicle may not be visible from the driver or the passenger’s seat but with the help of mirrors, you can see them and thus, avoid bumping or hitting other cars, pedestrians, or any obstruction in the road. Check out the store’s featured Jeep mirrors, Ford mirrors and Volvo mirrors and exciting deals on all these car parts.

The Best Driving Luxury Sedan in the World

2007-09-04T23:26:00.000-07:00

The fourth-generation 7 Series is the most successful prestige luxury performance sedan in BMW's history. It is a highly prestigious luxury sedan offering generous space and comfort for the driver and passengers. All BMW 7 Series now feature BMW's two-stage Adaptive Brakelights: Whenever the driver applies the brakes harder than usual, the larger brake light area warns motorists following behind. The optional CD changer is now MP3 CD-capable. The standard BMW Assist telematics service includes Bluetooth hands-free phone capability.

Virtually everything in the cabin is controlled through a single mouse-like interface called iDrive. BMW's controversial system controls the heater, the radio, the navigation system. Amazing technology sets the BMW 7 series apart from its competitors. Silent, hidden fans and heating elements cool or warm your rear end or your soft drink; microchips can detect a skidding tire or apply the brakes full force just in case you were distracted by a phone call; power sunshades keep the sun off your rear passengers as adaptive headlights turn with the car.

BMW's iDrive interface system is standard on all 7 Series models, and can operate virtually everything in the car, from stereo to climate controls to telephone to navigation, with a single mouse-like control. Standard safety features include dual frontal airbags, driver and front-passenger side-impact airbags, and BMW's Head Protection System, which amounts to a full-length, tube-shaped curtain on both sides of the cabin for front and rear head protection in a side impact. Also standard is BMW's Active Knee Protection, unique inflatable airbags that protect front passengers' knees. Its Anti-lock brakes, traction control and electronic stability control help drivers maintain control and avoid accidents

The BMW 7 Series offers that Sheer Driving Pleasure so typical of BMW. Being the e most successful 7 Series ever, Partstrain offers a variety of BMW Performance products and Replacement parts to suit the most demanding needs of its customers worldwide.

Its online catalog at http://www.partstrain.com/ShopByVehicle/BMW is regularly updated so you always get the latest information on optimum quality low priced BMW auto replacement parts, performance parts and accessories. Motoring comfort, driving dynamics and generous space inside redefines the new BMW series. Featuring more powerful and fuel efficient engines, innovative assistance systems, a wide range of safety features, as well as a superior standard of equipment, the new BMW series of today need no less than superior BMW replacement parts like those from Partstrain when the need arises.

Tips For Winter Driving

2007-09-04T23:23:00.000-07:00

Winter driving can be hazardous and stressful. Wind, snow, ice and blizzard conditions increase the normal dangers of driving. There is a lot you can do before the winter driving season and during a storm to protect yourself and your family.

Before winter arrives, have your car inspected to be sure it is ready for the road conditions. You can do this yourself or take it to a qualified mechanic. Check the battery, wipers and fluid, thermostat, brakes, ignition system, antifreeze, exhaust system, lights, oil level, heater and defrosters. Make sure everything is in good working order to keep you safe throughout the cold weather.

Check your tires to be sure they are road ready. Install tires that are appropriate for the driving conditions. In moderate amounts of snow, all weather radials will do the job nicely. If you live in a climate where you experience a lot of snow, consider snow tires. These have better tread to deal with snow and ice.

Prepare an emergency kit to keep in the back of your car. This will ensure that you are prepared in the event that you get stuck in the snow. Things to include in the kit:

Ice scraper
Small broom
Small shovel
Kitty litter or a bag of sand (to give traction if you get stuck in snow or ice)
Blankets or a sleeping bag
Flashlight with batteries
Flares or warning triangles
Plastic bags
First aid kit
Tool kit
Jumper cables
Bright cloth to use as a flag
Help sign for back window
Extra hat and gloves
Food and water to sustain you if you get stuck
A book, Bible or Prayer Cards to keep you busy and calm in the event you get stuck.
Charged cell phone (always carry this, especially in the winter)

Keep your gas tank at least half full at all times. This adds weight to the car and will ensure that you won’t run out of gas in the event you get stuck.

Driving in the Snow

Pay attention to the weather forecasts and road conditions in the winter months. If the weather is bad, stay home if at all possible. If you must venture out, travel in the daylight. You are more likely to find help if you get stuck during the day. Never warm up your vehicle in the garage. This releases carbon monoxide, which is toxic and can kill you.

When driving, always wear your seatbelt. Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the glare of the sun reflecting off the snow. Know your car and how it handles in the snow. Features like traction control and antilock brakes can be useful in bad weather conditions. Know how these work and if your car is new, practice driving it in a snow covered parking lot before venturing out on the road.