<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0"
	xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/"
	xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/"
	xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/"
	xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom"
	xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/"
	xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/"
	>

<channel>
	<title>sports cars Archives - Altered Steel</title>
	<atom:link href="https://alteredsteel.com/tag/sports-cars/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
	<link>https://alteredsteel.com/tag/sports-cars/</link>
	<description>Writing about cars, men and women who love cars.</description>
	<lastBuildDate>Mon, 20 Feb 2023 16:08:16 +0000</lastBuildDate>
	<language>en-US</language>
	<sy:updatePeriod>
	hourly	</sy:updatePeriod>
	<sy:updateFrequency>
	1	</sy:updateFrequency>
	
	<item>
		<title>What are the things they don&#8217;t tell you about owning a supercar? </title>
		<link>https://alteredsteel.com/what-are-the-things-they-dont-tell-you-about-owning-a-supercar/</link>
					<comments>https://alteredsteel.com/what-are-the-things-they-dont-tell-you-about-owning-a-supercar/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ina Gjika]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 09 Dec 2021 06:30:30 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[altered]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[new]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[steel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[automotive]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cars]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fast cars]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lamborghini]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[muscle cars]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sports cars]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://alteredsteel.com/?p=1517</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>When it comes to supercars, it&#8217;s a privilege of a few. Some luxury car manufacturers even choose their customers. For instance, Ferrari car ownership is strictly controlled by Ferrari. Not everyone who has the means to own the beast can get one. In the case of Ferrari, it is the car manufacturer that chooses you [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://alteredsteel.com/what-are-the-things-they-dont-tell-you-about-owning-a-supercar/">What are the things they don&#8217;t tell you about owning a supercar? </a> appeared first on <a href="https://alteredsteel.com">Altered Steel</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>When it comes to supercars, it&#8217;s a privilege of a few. Some luxury car manufacturers even choose their customers. For instance, Ferrari car ownership is strictly controlled by Ferrari. Not everyone who has the means to own the beast can get one. In the case of Ferrari, it is the car manufacturer that chooses you and not the other way around.</p>
<p>If you are thinking of getting your hands on the wheel of a supercar, keep in mind that there will always be things that you don’t know about these powerful vehicles until you own or drive one. But let’s change that. Let’s take a look at some of the things they don’t tell you about owning a supercar:</p>
<h3>Supercars are hard to drive</h3>
<p>Unlike regular cars, supercars are rarely used to just get you from point A to B, like running errands, for instance. You might use them to stop somewhere and continue your schedule quickly, but most of the time, supercars are used as a toy you can play with. You take it for a drive from point A to Point A. Especially since you cannot transport more than one person in it.</p>
<h3>Enjoying the ride is a challenge</h3>
<p>Another sad fact is that you will never be able to drive a supercar as you wish to. Speed limits and bumpy roads are constant roadblocks that will never let you enjoy your supercar to the fullest.</p>
<p>There are some streets, in Germany, for example, where you can push the supercar to the <a href="https://corsia.us/top-ten-fastest-cars-in-the-world" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">maximum speed</a>. However, it is prohibited to use these cars at their best capacities in most countries since you have to respect speed limits on highways. So before you commit to buying a beast, know that you will primarily use it to show it off and drive it carefully.</p>
<h3>Car maintenance is expensive</h3>
<p>This is not quite a secret. As you might already know owning a supercar comes with high maintenance costs. But what you may not know is that the maintenance is not just high, but extremely expensive.</p>
<p>So don’t be surprised if you leave a service department spending thousands of dollars in one go. It can get costly to upkeep the car because of the difficulty of replacing the parts, let alone fixing them.</p>
<p>Manufacturers try to keep this part “hidden” when you buy a supercar. However, as with all expensive things that you buy, maintaining them will also be expensive.</p>
<h3>Limited space</h3>
<p>While all supercars might look super comfortable and spacious in the photos, the reality is quite different.</p>
<p>The majority of supercars have limited headspace (or height space) and legs pace. We’re looking at you, <a href="https://alteredsteel.com/tag/lamborghini/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Lamborghini</a>.</p>
<p>Jokes aside, limited space does not mean tall people cannot drive supercars. However, if you are tall, you will feel the lack of space even more, and the driving experience will not be as relaxing.</p>
<p>If it makes you feel better, keep in mind that all supercar owners have this challenge — some more than others. But one problem is consistent: you cannot enter into a supercar as gracefully as you might wish.</p>
<h3>Supercars draw a lot of attention</h3>
<p>We bet you already know this. We also bet this fact is one of the main reasons why you are deciding to buy a supercar in the first place.</p>
<p>However, if you are the type of person who does not want to attract a lot of attention, driving a supercar will make that goal almost impossible. Moreover, with lots of attention comes higher risk.</p>
<p>As a supercar owner, you will have to pay extra attention to people trying to steal your car or steal any parts from it.</p>
<p>If you plan to buy a supercar, don’t let these facts or things stop you from fulfilling this dream. Every dream or goal has its own challenges. The important thing is to know about these challenges as soon as possible so that you are aware and make an informed decision.</p>
<p>These are just some of the things they do not tell you about owning a supercar. Do you know any other things or “hidden” facts about owning this type of car? Share with us know in the comments below. Let&#8217;s talk!</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://alteredsteel.com/what-are-the-things-they-dont-tell-you-about-owning-a-supercar/">What are the things they don&#8217;t tell you about owning a supercar? </a> appeared first on <a href="https://alteredsteel.com">Altered Steel</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
					<wfw:commentRss>https://alteredsteel.com/what-are-the-things-they-dont-tell-you-about-owning-a-supercar/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
			<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		
		
			</item>
		<item>
		<title>First-gen Corvette: America’s answer to the Jaguar</title>
		<link>https://alteredsteel.com/first-gen-corvette-americas-answer-to-the-jaguar/</link>
					<comments>https://alteredsteel.com/first-gen-corvette-americas-answer-to-the-jaguar/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Atanas]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 07 Oct 2020 06:30:41 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[old]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[steel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[automobile history]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[automobile industry]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[automotive]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cars]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Chevrolet]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[classic cars]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Corvette]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fast cars]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sports cars]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[US automakers]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://alteredsteel.com/?p=1260</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Only a few models out there can brag about a longer history than the Vette. Though going through a number of redesigns, this Chevy has remained true to its purpose: being the staple American sports car. Being such a long-lasting beast, its generations offer something for everyone. Do you consider yourself a supercar enthusiast? The [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://alteredsteel.com/first-gen-corvette-americas-answer-to-the-jaguar/">First-gen Corvette: America’s answer to the Jaguar</a> appeared first on <a href="https://alteredsteel.com">Altered Steel</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Only a few models out there can brag about a longer history than the Vette. Though going through a number of redesigns, this Chevy has remained true to its purpose: being the staple American sports car.</p>
<p>Being such a long-lasting beast, its generations offer something for everyone. Do you consider yourself a supercar enthusiast? The latest 8<sup>th</sup> gen will suit you perfectly. Want to dabble into vintage cars? Then you can try to go for <a href="https://alteredsteel.com/the-classic-corvette-that-everyone-wants/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">the classic Corvette that everyone wants</a>!</p>
<p>However, looking at the Vette through the lens of time may give you the wrong impression. For example, did you know the first generation came close to utter failure? Or that it started out as the cheaper US alternative to Jaguar and MG? Let us see how the idea of Corvette was born, what went wrong, and how it ultimately rose to the top!</p>
<h2>The origins of the Chevrolet Corvette</h2>
<p>In typical General Motors fashion, the Corvette had less to do with originality and more with improving the already successful ideas. It all goes to show that even reactionary vehicles can end up becoming iconic. Though prior to that, it came close to becoming just a historical footnote. More on that in a second!</p>
<p>It all started with the boom of exotic sports cars like the Jaguar XK120 (the great-granddaddy of E-type). In the late 1940s, Harley Earl, the head of GM’s styling at the time, realized the potential such a market had. Mainly because the US had barely any claim to it.</p>
<p>All such vehicles hailed over from Europe with quite the hefty price tag, making the opportunity for a cheaper alternative quite apparent. On top of that, US companies had the advantage of relying on good old patriotism to drive more sales.</p>
<p>Taking all those facts into account, Earl presented the concept and managed to get the affordable sports car idea off the ground. Thus, in 1953, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chevrolet_Corvette_(C1)" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Chevrolet Corvette C1</a> was born. At first, everyone adored the two-seater beast. Its looks screamed “speed”, plus it did come out a bit cheaper than the competition. Sadly, performance did not match aesthetics.</p>
<h3>What went wrong with the first-gen Corvette?</h3>
<p>In the beginning, GM had fairly reasonable expectations of building about 10,000 Corvette units per year. Although a considerable number, it still fell somewhat on the conservative side. Yet, they could not even reach the 4,000 mark in the first 2 years.</p>
<p>The main reason for that had to do with engine details. The Corvette was touted as a sports car, but could not live up to that. GM initially put in a 3.9L inline-six engine, that gave the car only 150 hp after modifications. Accelerating from 0 to 60 mph took 11.5 seconds. To put things in perspective, Jaguar XK120 could do it in just 8.5 secs even with its higher weight.</p>
<p>To make things worse the Corvette’s engine had already been used for more than a decade in other vehicles. In other words, they relied on old tech for a new car that had to compete with exotic foreign rides!</p>
<p>Perhaps people could have justified it if the price was tremendously lower. After all, that was the initial goal. Too bad it only came at about 15% cheaper than the alternatives. At this point, GM almost shut the whole project down, as it failed to meet their projections. However, largely because the company wanted to save face in the <a href="https://alteredsteel.com/chevrolet-blazer-and-ford-bronco/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Ford vs Chevrolet rivalry</a>, GM pushed forward for a while longer. The carmaker decided to improve whatever it could and possibly salvage the project. And it did succeed!</p>
<h3>How Chevrolet Corvette C1 evolved through the years</h3>
<p>Starting in 1955, GM introduced changes to the Corvette on an annual basis. The company took everything good about the car, added some more oomph to it, and made it fly. Below you can see a timetable of how it all progressed.</p>
<ul>
<li>1953 – 300 Corvettes rolled out of the factory and received compliments on their aesthetics.</li>
<li>1954 – Only about 3,600 units were built, as the market reacted strongly against the lackluster performance. That almost spelled the end for the model.</li>
<li>1955 – GM put in a V8 engine and added a 3-speed manual transmission. Finally, the model got the performance to match its looks. It now had 195 hp and accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 8.5s, rivaling the Jaguar XK120.</li>
<li>1956 – With further improvements to the body of the car, and ultimately dropping the old I6 engine, Corvette sales started going up again.</li>
<li>1957 – The model’s sales doubled and its V8 engine got some more power, now ranging from 210 up to 290 hp. The 4-speed manual transmission also became an option. The car finally felt like an expensive sports car. On top of that, its price went down, making it an incredible bang-for-the-buck alternative.</li>
<li>1958-1961 – Both the interior and exterior received noticeable changes. Models from ’58 and up could be considered facelift versions. Sales continued to rise steadily, even though the price got a serious bump, too (at about 30%).</li>
<li>1962 – The final production year introduced the most powerful 327ci V8 engine for the lineup so far. It had up to 360 hp, with both manual and automatic transmissions available.</li>
</ul>
<p>Ultimately, the first-gen Corvette came out successful. By the end of its run, GM had produced a little over 69,000 units and was ready to take it a step further!</p>
<h2>The legacy of the Chevrolet Corvette</h2>
<p>In just a few generations, Corvette became the poster American sports car. By its third iteration, its numbers broke the half-million mark, making it one of Chevy’s mainstay models.</p>
<p>That being said, throughout the years, the Corvette became less of an affordable car and more of a top tier luxury beast. The model continues to receive praise, though many old school fans feel like it no longer carries the spirit of those first few generations.</p>
<p>So what do you think, <a href="https://www.corsia.us/should-you-buy-a-corvette" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">should you buy a Corvette</a> today, and if yes, which one? With the exception of C4 and C5, I love them all. The irony is that classic Corvettes often cost more than the new ones!</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://alteredsteel.com/first-gen-corvette-americas-answer-to-the-jaguar/">First-gen Corvette: America’s answer to the Jaguar</a> appeared first on <a href="https://alteredsteel.com">Altered Steel</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
					<wfw:commentRss>https://alteredsteel.com/first-gen-corvette-americas-answer-to-the-jaguar/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
			<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		
		
			</item>
		<item>
		<title>Epic wheels for an epic road trip</title>
		<link>https://alteredsteel.com/epic-cars-for-an-epic-road-trip/</link>
					<comments>https://alteredsteel.com/epic-cars-for-an-epic-road-trip/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Juxhina]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 21 Aug 2020 06:30:42 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[new]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[old]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[steel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[automotive]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cars]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[driving]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fast cars]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ford]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Jeep]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sports cars]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://alteredsteel.com/?p=1084</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>The call for adventure pulls on all of us. Some take heed, others… not so much. But all of us want to experience the thrill every once in a while. No wonder then that a road trip serves as a great example of an iconic American adventure. A country so vast just makes you want [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://alteredsteel.com/epic-cars-for-an-epic-road-trip/">Epic wheels for an epic road trip</a> appeared first on <a href="https://alteredsteel.com">Altered Steel</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The call for adventure pulls on all of us. Some take heed, others… not so much. But all of us want to experience the thrill every once in a while.</p>
<p>No wonder then that a road trip serves as a great example of an iconic American adventure. A country so vast just makes you want to explore it from end to end. Some people take it a step farther and start <a href="https://alteredsteel.com/best-ways-to-test-living-the-vanlife/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">living the vanlife</a>, roaming the States.</p>
<p>Today we are hopping on an adventure of our own. Join me as I explore some epic rides to take you on a trip across the US. With them, the thrill is certain!</p>
<h2>What is the best vehicle for a road trip?</h2>
<p>Before I share my favorite picks with you, we should discuss some criteria. That being said, they will differ from person to person. Here is my list of requirements:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Comfort</strong> – The longer the trip the more important it becomes. Sure, you can roam around in a small city car, but I doubt you would enjoy the experience. That makes comfort my number one criterion.</li>
<li><strong>Reliability</strong> – You do not want your car to break down in the middle of nowhere. And in the case that it does, you want it to be easy to repair.</li>
<li><strong>Utility</strong> – The ride you pick has to cover all of your needs. If you have a big family, a coupe will hardly make sense. However, if you are just with your significant other, a grand tourer offers plenty of utility. Yet a race car would likely offer you close to zero in that regard. This is why I have a variety of picks for people in different situations.</li>
</ul>
<p>Of course, we can add tons of other necessities. Still, I think I have mentioned the most common for all people, while others would be on a case-by-case basis. Now that you know what I am looking for, let’s see our choice of epic cars for an epic road trip.</p>
<h3>Volkswagen Minibus – The staple pick</h3>
<p>Okay, this may be a bit cliché, but no road trip list would be complete without the <a href="https://www.corsia.us/vw-minibus-past-present-future" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">VW Minibus</a>. So, I decided to be open and put it straight at the top.</p>
<p>Nevertheless, I have a twist for you. While finding an old Minibus is a tough job, the gem will be revived sometime soon. But you have other options as well. Some VW Transporter vans are available on the used market, so maybe try those out. They would make for an awesome road trip experience.</p>
<p><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-602" src="https://alteredsteel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/DSC_0050-1024x683.jpg" alt="California #vanlife cars for an epic road trip" width="800" height="533" /></p>
<h3>Audi RS6 Avant – For the luxury enthusiast</h3>
<p>All luxury brands advertise high comfort. What do they lack? They often do not have a lot of utility, and reliability also tends to be on the bad side. Not with the RS6!</p>
<p>This wagon offers a lot of space, tons of comfort, luxury extras, and… speed! Yes, this is the Swiss Army Knife of sports cars. Even its reliability is above average in the luxury segment. You can have a truly epic road trip, especially if you plan to stick mainly to the interstate. If you want to veer off track, I have a different option for you!</p>
<figure id="attachment_1090" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1090" style="width: 800px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="wp-image-1090" src="https://alteredsteel.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Audi-1024x576.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="450" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1090" class="wp-caption-text">Image: autotrader.ca</figcaption></figure>
<h3>Jeep Cherokee XJ – Have an off-road trip</h3>
<p>One of the greatest things about the US is that one moment you can be on the road and then cruise along off-road routes the next. To do that effectively though, you would need a proper vehicle. For a couple, <a href="https://alteredsteel.com/jeep-wrangler-yj-grandfather-of-modern-suvs/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Jeep Wrangler YJ</a> would be great. However, there is a more versatile choice – Cherokee XJ!</p>
<p>Used Jeeps make for the perfect road trip vehicles because you can do whatever you want with them. You can mod them to suit your needs, and mechanics all across the US can work on them. Plus, the XJ has plenty of space for you to load it up and take your kids if you wish!</p>
<p><img decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-141" src="https://alteredsteel.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/31381270_985621224929154_5200456812721078272_o-1024x768.jpg" alt="cars for an epic road trip" width="800" height="600" /></p>
<h3>Ford Mustang – The truly epic road trip experience</h3>
<p>Muscle cars and road trips go together so well because they both feel a very US thing. And what better car to experience that than the Mustang? Of course, you can also go with a Camaro or a Challenger, but I prefer Ford for this kind of thing.</p>
<p>Is it comfortable though? Quite a lot actually! Even older versions offer a superb driving experience. Of course, it is not meant for a family trip, but a couple can have an amazing experience in this beast. Almost as if you have taken the idea out of a movie.</p>
<figure id="attachment_1091" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1091" style="width: 800px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-1091" src="https://alteredsteel.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/2020-ford-mustang-ecoboost-coupe-hpp-105-1568989848.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="489" srcset="https://alteredsteel.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/2020-ford-mustang-ecoboost-coupe-hpp-105-1568989848.jpg 980w, https://alteredsteel.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/2020-ford-mustang-ecoboost-coupe-hpp-105-1568989848-300x183.jpg 300w, https://alteredsteel.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/2020-ford-mustang-ecoboost-coupe-hpp-105-1568989848-768x469.jpg 768w, https://alteredsteel.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/2020-ford-mustang-ecoboost-coupe-hpp-105-1568989848-696x425.jpg 696w, https://alteredsteel.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/2020-ford-mustang-ecoboost-coupe-hpp-105-1568989848-687x420.jpg 687w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1091" class="wp-caption-text">Image: caranddriver.com</figcaption></figure>
<h3>Toyota Tundra – The all-in-one solution</h3>
<p>Most folks do not associate pickups with road trips. However, the Tundra is an epic vehicle that can actually make your trip as exciting as it gets. For starters, it can handle some rough terrain. Then you can also fill it up with stuff for different activities. And if you do not mind modding it, you could have a camper on your hands.</p>
<p>Honestly, if I had to pick one car, I would likely go with the Tundra. Comfort? Check. Reliability? You bet! Utility? Hey, it’s an off-roadworthy pickup! Summer, winter, the interstate, or rough terrain – you name it, the Tundra handles it!</p>
<figure id="attachment_1093" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1093" style="width: 800px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-1093" src="https://alteredsteel.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/2020-toyota-tundra-1024x576.jpeg" alt="" width="800" height="450" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1093" class="wp-caption-text">Image: caranddriver.com</figcaption></figure>
<h2>What car should you pick for a road trip?</h2>
<p>One thing lacking in my list is any kind of recreational vehicle. Why have I omitted them? Because while you can have an awesome vacation in one of those, they are simply not as versatile.</p>
<p>That being said, you can still have a great road trip with them. If you do not care about off-roading at all, and having a sportsy feel does nothing for you, by all means, <a href="https://alteredsteel.com/renting-vs-buying-an-rv-how-to-make-the-choice/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">buy or rent an RV</a> for your trip. Still, I just do not feel they are “epic” enough to include them here.</p>
<p>Anyway, let’s put my picks to the side. Yes, I have given you some options, but maybe you have something different in mind. Do you have a specific car that you dream of taking on a road trip? Be sure to mention it. While you are at it, tell me about what makes a road trip “epic” for you!</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://alteredsteel.com/epic-cars-for-an-epic-road-trip/">Epic wheels for an epic road trip</a> appeared first on <a href="https://alteredsteel.com">Altered Steel</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
					<wfw:commentRss>https://alteredsteel.com/epic-cars-for-an-epic-road-trip/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
			<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		
		
			</item>
		<item>
		<title>Lamborghini Sian: The most powerful hybrid supercar</title>
		<link>https://alteredsteel.com/lamborghini-sian-most-powerful-hybrid-supercar/</link>
					<comments>https://alteredsteel.com/lamborghini-sian-most-powerful-hybrid-supercar/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Atanas]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 11 Oct 2019 14:29:01 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[new]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[steel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[EVs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fast cars]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[green cars]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lamborghini]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sports cars]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://alteredsteel.com/?p=660</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>What is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear “hybrid”? Chances are it has nothing to do with actual performance. We are used to associating the word with efficiency, economy, environmental concerns, and so on. After all, the Prius (which made hybrids popular) was marketed exactly like that. Then come the full [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://alteredsteel.com/lamborghini-sian-most-powerful-hybrid-supercar/">Lamborghini Sian: The most powerful hybrid supercar</a> appeared first on <a href="https://alteredsteel.com">Altered Steel</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p>What is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear “hybrid”? Chances are it has nothing to do with actual performance. We are used to associating the word with efficiency, economy, environmental concerns, and so on. After all, the Prius (which made hybrids popular) was marketed exactly like that.</p>



<p>Then come the full EVs. Everyone who has ever been in such a
vehicle would tell you how surprisingly powerful they are. The electric motor accelerates
in a different way, which always leaves people with thoughts of sheer power. </p>



<p>Recently, Lamborghini decided to prove that there is no need for a contrast in marketing between hybrids and full EVs. On top of that, the supercar company did not only come up with an amazing hybrid – they made it their most powerful car to date.  Let us see what makes <a href="https://www.lamborghini.com/en-en/models/few-off/sian" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label=" (opens in a new tab)">Lamborghini Sian</a> so special and why the car manufacturer even decided to make it a hybrid!</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What you need to know about Lamborghini Sian</h2>



<p>The Sian is an exclusive car with only 63 units planned for
production. It is meant to commemorate Lamborghini’s founding in 1963. Why now
though? I will answer that in a second. First, we need to learn a thing or two
about this new beast.</p>



<p>The staple Lamborghini aesthetic has always been a love-it-or-hate-it kind of thing. It is aggressive, sharp, and polarizing. Naturally, the Sian model follows the same trend, and I would say that it even steps it up a notch. This is the most futuristic design the company has ever made, looking like it will cut you to pieces just by staring at it.</p>



<p>People have compared it to its Aventador brother (on which the Sian is based). But come on – that one is a happy little kitty, compared to the new vehicle. I guess the translation of the name is quite fitting – <em>flash</em>, or <em>lightning</em>.</p>



<p>That being said, we all know that an aggressive design does
not mean a fast car. We should then take a look at the specs to see what
monster hides underneath the mean looks. Here are some of them:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>Staple V12 Lamborghini engine</strong> – This is nothing new for the company, although they have bumped up the horsepower to 785 bhp. That is still impressive, even if it is not new tech.</li><li><strong>Supercapacitor instead of a lithium-ion battery pack</strong> – This may not tell you much, but all you need to know is that a supercapacitor delivers more power at less weight. It powers a 48-volt motor that gives an additional 34 hp. However, the electric motor only ever works alone when parking. The rest of the time it serves to keep constant power to the wheels even when switching gears. </li><li><strong>Top speed of 220mph</strong> – This is a speed that only a few people in the world will experience, but the interesting thing is that it is actually an arbitrary limit. It is possible that with some mods the Sian will be able to exceed it.</li><li><strong>Supercar-worthy acceleration of 2.8s to 60mph</strong> – Obviously, this acceleration is nothing to scoff at, though it does not break the barrier to enter the top 10 fastest cars ever made.</li></ul>



<p>These specs look impressive on paper, but I noticed
something that made me question the whole Sian marketing. It is being touted as
the most powerful Lambo ever, yet it is not even the fastest. What gives? I
will try to unravel that mystery!</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Understanding the hybrid supercar</h3>



<p>We have already started seeing the trend of electrified sports cars. <a href="https://alteredsteel.com/porsche-taycan-should-tesla-be-worried/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label=" (opens in a new tab)">Porsche Taycan</a>, for example, stormed the scene with grand promises of unparalleled performance. Other manufacturers are also looking for ways to beat the king – Tesla Roadster. Obviously, the move towards sports EVs has already began.</p>



<p>However, all of those new concept vehicles focus strictly on full electric motors. So why did Lamborghini decide to come out with a hybrid on a limited run of 63 cars? And why do they claim it is the most powerful car in their lineup if it is not the fastest? After all, their own 2017 Huracan Performante achieves 60 mph in 2.3 seconds, beating the Sian by a good margin.</p>



<p>Strictly speaking, the Sian deserves the claim – the engine has combined horsepower of up to 819 bhp. When you actually think about it though, you realize how meaningless such figures become. </p>



<p>Sure, it is technically the most powerful, but good luck
reaching those 220 mph during regular driving. Acceleration is more important
in real world scenarios and the Sian gets nowhere near Tesla Roadster’s 1.9s
for 0-60 mph. Could it be that the Sian’s idea is actually a bit different?</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">What is the goal of Lamborghini Sian?</h3>



<p>One may think we are splitting hairs when talking about the
outrageous power outputs of supercars. Who will ever notice half a second of
difference? While I understand this remark, it actually misses the point. Indeed,
nobody would care, if it was not for Lamborghini’s own claims of power. </p>



<p>The limited-edition Sian run was sold out even before the
car was officially presented. Obviously, the buyers do not concern themselves
with many technical details. On the other hand, Lamborghini understand that
their time to come up with a competitive model is running out – hence the Sian.</p>



<p>This car’s idea is not to prove it is the fastest. Nor are Lamborghini trying to make it a best-seller. In my opinion, Sian’s whole purpose is to serve as a worthy placeholder and buy the automaker some time. With it, the company shows us that it&#8217;s definitely paying attention, embracing the EV future one step at a time. Only it is not quite there yet.</p>



<p>In all likelihood, we are going to see the Sian’s engine tech in the next Aventador. While Lamborghini have stated that no other model will follow the visual design of the Sian, its technology will be put to good use. I suppose that the company&#8217;s engineers will try to perfect the hybrid engine even further, using it to transition to an EV-filled lineup. Or will they?</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Lamborghini’s plans about electric vehicles</h3>



<p>It may be a bit soon to tell whether Lamborghini has any serious plans in adopting the EV as a whole. However, the automobile maker is under the Volkswagen AG umbrella. Do you know who else is there? Audi and Porsche, which are both working on future EV design and tech.</p>



<p>In fact, in recent news, we have heard that <a rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label=" (opens in a new tab)" href="https://www.digitaltrends.com/cars/first-lamborghini-electric-car-will-be-taycan-based-four-door-report-says/" target="_blank">the first Lamborghini EV will be based on Porsche Taycan</a>. That means two things – firstly, Lamborghini is probably not working on its own EV platform right now; secondly, its first EV will likely not be a stab at Tesla at all.</p>



<p>We know that the Taycan will not be able to beat the competition when it comes to acceleration. Porsche&#8217;s main focus is developing a platform that can charge much more quickly and still deliver good performance. To be honest though, Porsche makes sports cars, not supercars like its Lamborghini cousin. What may work as a good addition to the former, may be an underwhelming one for the latter.</p>



<p>This is where the Sian comes back into the picture. With its supercapacitor technology, we can actually expect Lamborghini to put its own spin on any future EV platform. So not only is the company showing us it is actively working on proper hybrids, but it is also hinting at future surprises.</p>



<p>The reason I believe I am right is because of certain things
Lambo representatives have said. One such thing is their claim that no EV will
come out of the company if it cannot at least match the performance of their
current models. And since the news for adopting the Taycan platform came
shortly after their Sian presentation, I think everything lines up quite well. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">What do you think of Lamborghini Sian?</h3>



<p>I usually like sharp designs, but even for me the Sian is a
bit over the top. Honestly, the Aventador aesthetic, paired with some Sian tech,
sounds like the dream to me. I think it will have the potential to be one of
the company’s most successful vehicles to date.</p>



<p>What is your opinion though? Do you think Lamborghini is using Sian as a way to wink at us for its upcoming EVs? Or is it just a last-minute attempt to save face when every other company is coming up with an electric vehicle? To be fair, it will not be a surprise if both are true!</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://alteredsteel.com/lamborghini-sian-most-powerful-hybrid-supercar/">Lamborghini Sian: The most powerful hybrid supercar</a> appeared first on <a href="https://alteredsteel.com">Altered Steel</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
					<wfw:commentRss>https://alteredsteel.com/lamborghini-sian-most-powerful-hybrid-supercar/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
			<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		
		
			</item>
		<item>
		<title>American muscle cars in Europe</title>
		<link>https://alteredsteel.com/american-muscle-cars-in-europe/</link>
					<comments>https://alteredsteel.com/american-muscle-cars-in-europe/#comments</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Atanas]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 15 May 2019 10:00:42 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[new]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[steel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[automobile industry]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cars]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Chevrolet]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Chrysler]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dodge]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fast cars]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ford]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[muscle cars]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sports cars]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tesla]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://alteredsteel.com///?p=361</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Engine sounds that will shake you to the core. Aggressive looks that make everyone admire these machines. Staples of the American automobile industry. Yes, today we are talking muscle cars, baby! When Europeans think of American cars they don’t picture a Ford Escort. Nope. What comes to their mind is a mighty beast, such as [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://alteredsteel.com/american-muscle-cars-in-europe/">American muscle cars in Europe</a> appeared first on <a href="https://alteredsteel.com">Altered Steel</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Engine sounds that will shake you to the core. Aggressive looks that make everyone admire these machines. Staples of the American automobile industry. Yes, today we are talking muscle cars, baby!</p>
<p>When Europeans think of American cars they don’t picture a Ford Escort. Nope. What comes to their mind is a mighty beast, such as the Mustang. Natural selection has determined these monsters will make their ripple through history.</p>
<p>Although muscle cars were way more popular back in the day, there is sort of a resurgence nowadays. It started in the early 2000s and hadn&#8217;t died since. But is there a market for these cars in Europe? Let&#8217;s see.</p>
<h2>Don’t Europeans have their own muscle?</h2>
<p>Let’s clear this question first. It all depends on how you look at it. To be honest, many European vehicles can fit in the broader description of a muscle. Are they considered such though? Not really.</p>
<p>Europeans think of cars more in terms of their use. It means that broadly speaking you’ll find three kinds of vehicles there – regular everyday cars, sports cars, and luxury cars. If you are willing to break these down even further, sure, you could label some of them as “muscle.” But most people don’t.</p>
<p>Even <a href="https://www.chevrolet.co.uk/cars/camaro/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">official company websites</a> market their American muscle as sports cars in Europe. The term “muscle” is nowhere to be found. So there you have it.</p>
<p>With all that being said, the European demand for aggressive-looking, high-torque, high-power vehicles is on the rise. A lot of German car manufacturers have come up with their own versions of would-be muscle cars. So it won’t come as a surprise if the term sticks in the near future.</p>
<h2>The most popular American muscle cars</h2>
<p>Let me first say that I won’t be covering the <a href="https://alteredsteel.com///the-classic-corvette-that-everyone-wants/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">classic models</a>. I want to focus on vehicles you can get your hands on today. For a reasonable price that is.</p>
<p>Furthermore, for the sake of brevity, I will have to include similar models under one heading. So don’t get mad if I don’t mention every single Camaro or Shelby variant. But let’s get going!</p>
<h3></h3>
<h3>Ford Mustang – The true American stallion</h3>
<p><figure id="attachment_420" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-420" style="width: 800px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-420" src="https://alteredsteel.com///wp-content/uploads/2019/05/ford-executive-fired-over-inappropriate-behavior-127677_1-1024x768.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="600" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-420" class="wp-caption-text">Image Source: autoevolution.com</figcaption></figure></p>
<p>This car easily makes the top 3 of the most popular muscle cars in Europe. It has many variations, but the iconic logo has a place in every car enthusiast&#8217;s heart on the east side of the Atlantic. And that is the non-Shelby variant.</p>
<p>Interestingly, the Ford Mustang isn’t even among the most powerful or most expensive muscles. But is it beautiful? Of course. Add that to the fact that the new Mustang GT can get from zero to sixty in 4.3s, and you have a beast of a car. It also comes heavily sprinkled with the American spirit.</p>
<p>The Mustang gets a fair amount of love in Europe. It is among the best-selling “sporty” vehicles in Germany. Its UK version isn’t far behind either. And due to its reasonable price, many young people find it quite affordable. So it is indeed a good opening pick for today’s list.</p>
<p>As for the Shelby iterations, many of which aren’t even called Mustangs anymore – they are mostly left for Americans to enjoy. I’ll tell you why later, but here’s a hint: European regulations.</p>
<h3></h3>
<h3>Chevrolet Camaro – You can never get enough</h3>
<p><figure id="attachment_422" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-422" style="width: 800px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-422" src="https://alteredsteel.com///wp-content/uploads/2019/05/2012-chevrolet-camaro-european-model-8-e1557762920558.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="532" srcset="https://alteredsteel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/2012-chevrolet-camaro-european-model-8-e1557762920558.jpg 900w, https://alteredsteel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/2012-chevrolet-camaro-european-model-8-e1557762920558-300x200.jpg 300w, https://alteredsteel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/2012-chevrolet-camaro-european-model-8-e1557762920558-768x511.jpg 768w, https://alteredsteel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/2012-chevrolet-camaro-european-model-8-e1557762920558-696x463.jpg 696w, https://alteredsteel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/2012-chevrolet-camaro-european-model-8-e1557762920558-631x420.jpg 631w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-422" class="wp-caption-text">Image Source: gmauthority.com</figcaption></figure></p>
<p>Camaro is another model that sits well in the minds of Europeans. There are so many variations of it that I can’t do it justice. Whatever you go with though, one thing is for certain – that’s the real muscle.</p>
<p>An interesting is the division in opinions people have about this vehicle. There is a very devout group of enthusiasts who fervently defend the old (read “classic”) look of this machine. Then again, fans of the new visual iteration aren’t a small number either.</p>
<p>While I don’t have any specific figures, it is almost certain that the Camaro sells a bit worse than the Mustang. This applies to both the US and European markets. But that’s largely due to the fair price difference. Still, it more than deserves a spot on our list.</p>
<h4></h4>
<h4>Dodge Challenger – What muscle is all about</h4>
<p><figure id="attachment_424" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-424" style="width: 800px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-424" src="https://alteredsteel.com///wp-content/uploads/2019/05/2011-dodge-challenger-srt8-392-inaugural-edition-arrives-in-germany-via-geiger-cars_1-1024x682.jpg" alt="american muscle cars in europe" width="800" height="533" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-424" class="wp-caption-text">Image Source: autoevolution.com</figcaption></figure></p>
<p>Many people consider this model to be the go-to muscle car of the modern age. Why? Because for a lot of folks it’s the only modern vehicle that can be called a true heir to the muscles of old. One reason is that it’s not afraid to have a not-so-modern look. The other? Power!</p>
<p>Its technical specs are a thing to behold. There are models, which exceed 700 HP. Impressive! But what does this mean in the real world? 3.5s to 60mph! This is what I call fast.</p>
<p>Sadly though, Dodge doesn’t sell well in Europe. They no longer market the latest Challenger models (among many others) on The Old Continent. So the only way to get one is through imports. But the price increase that comes with it isn’t small, which makes it hard to beat what Ford and Chevrolet are currently offering.</p>
<p>However, not being <em>the most purchased vehicle</em> doesn’t make it less famous. People still know it, and enthusiasts have a place in their hearts for it. So does our list!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h4>Dodge Charger – The controversial pick</h4>
<p><figure id="attachment_429" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-429" style="width: 800px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-429 size-full" src="https://alteredsteel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/dodge-charger-srt392-gallery-011-1024x594-e1557767726171.jpg" alt="American muscle cars in Europe" width="800" height="464" srcset="https://alteredsteel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/dodge-charger-srt392-gallery-011-1024x594-e1557767726171.jpg 800w, https://alteredsteel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/dodge-charger-srt392-gallery-011-1024x594-e1557767726171-300x174.jpg 300w, https://alteredsteel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/dodge-charger-srt392-gallery-011-1024x594-e1557767726171-768x445.jpg 768w, https://alteredsteel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/dodge-charger-srt392-gallery-011-1024x594-e1557767726171-696x404.jpg 696w, https://alteredsteel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/dodge-charger-srt392-gallery-011-1024x594-e1557767726171-724x420.jpg 724w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-429" class="wp-caption-text">Image Source: aeceurope.com</figcaption></figure></p>
<p>I know that this model has a bit of controversy about it. First, there is the whole debate of whether it’s a muscle at all. Some people consider it a sporty sedan, for others, it is way too big to be called a muscle. But then again, the new 707 HP Hellcat model doesn’t really sound like a family car.</p>
<p>But do Europeans know it? They sure do. Not as much as the previous three though. It often gets mistaken for a Challenger. And just like it, it isn’t marketed in Europe. Which is sad, because it could have been more affordable than a top of the line Camaro.</p>
<p>It is quite the opposite in the US. Millennials have quite the love for Dodge and the Charger in particular. So let’s give our respect to this beast.</p>
<h2></h2>
<h2>Why aren’t there more muscle cars in Europe?</h2>
<p>We have exhausted our list of muscle cars. Yes, that’s right. I know there are more worthy mentions, but most of them aren’t known in Europe. And there is an actual reason why this is the case.</p>
<p>Remember that we mentioned Shelby isn’t really sold on The Old Continent? And that Dodge has withdrawn from marketing their latest models there? A big reason is European regulations.</p>
<p>A car in Europe has to have a certain level of efficiency and is not to surpass the set exhaust emissions. If it does, you have to pay quite the premium for it (i.e. high taxes and all that).</p>
<p>But how come Camaro and Mustang find their way on the market? It’s because they manufacture specially designed European models. And sometimes they differ quite a lot from their US counterparts.</p>
<p>Exhaust emissions are just the beginning. A lot of times the European models have less horsepower, better mile-per-gallon ratio, and use different materials in their manufacturing process.</p>
<p>This begs the question if we can even consider such cars “American muscle”. But really, can we stamp a nationality to any car?</p>
<h3></h3>
<h3>What is the alternative?</h3>
<p>Frankly speaking, there probably isn’t one. Think about it, what makes a muscle car? Some would say the sound of the engine, for example. But it comes at a price: higher fuel consumption, higher exhaust emissions, etc.</p>
<p>Yet, there are some models, which have tried to look the part. The Mustang EcoBoost is one such. But would you consider it a muscle? Most people wouldn’t. And I don’t blame them.</p>
<p>With muscle cars there is something more than looks – it’s the spirit. The American spirit. And of course, we don’t want a dead pony; we want a state-of-the-art, roaring-like-thunder beast of a machine. But you just don’t get that by compromising.</p>
<p>However, Europeans see it differently. They want a safe car, which is fast, meets the regulations and doesn’t use up fuel as much. Did we also mention that it has to be fast?</p>
<p>Well, “fast” has a different meaning on The Old Continent. It’s not all about horsepower. If it feels good, accelerates well, and gives you the chills. It’s fast enough. Exactly how fast is not important.</p>
<p>That’s why EcoBoost has a nice niche market there. And do you know what else has such a market? Tesla.</p>
<h4></h4>
<h4>Really? Tesla?</h4>
<p><figure id="attachment_412" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-412" style="width: 800px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-412" src="https://alteredsteel.com///wp-content/uploads/2019/05/IMG_0557-e1557253779449-1024x666.jpg" alt="women and EVs" width="800" height="521" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-412" class="wp-caption-text">With 400+ horsepower under the hood, Tesla is a pretty solid choice.</figcaption></figure></p>
<p>Yes, the company doesn&#8217;t have muscle cars. Some would even consider it a stretch to say it produces speed-oriented vehicles. But with 400+ horsepower under the hood, it’s not far off to say that Tesla offers some pretty solid choices. And <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/neilwinton/2016/04/06/tesla-model-s-the-biggest-selling-luxury-car-in-europe/#4f597e727588" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Europeans are digging them</a>.</p>
<p>Considering everything we’ve said so far, is this even a surprise? People in the UK, Germany, France, and the like aren’t raised on big, bulky, high-throttle vehicles. What they are actually used to is more luxurious, compact, but fast cars.</p>
<p>Tesla S can be found in many variations, some with a lot of luxury in mind. And engine power is pretty great, as we mention. But with an SUV and another luxury model on the horizon, Tesla is more likely to take on the European market than the likes of Dodge.</p>
<h4>Conclusion</h4>
<p>So there you have it. Muscles have their place in Europe, but it might not hold for long. Specially designed Mustangs and Camaros may still be around in ten years, but European manufacturers continue to run the show. Japanese vehicles are close after, and Tesla is a rising star.</p>
<p>Ladies and gents, we may be on the brink of a complete muscle car redesign once again. Strict environmental regulations may hit the US as well. What will happen to our favorite cars then? I don’t know.</p>
<p>But I do know I am looking forward to an environment-friendly, lightning-fast, engine-roaring beast. And yes, if it could keep its horsepower of 700+, it would be great.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://alteredsteel.com/american-muscle-cars-in-europe/">American muscle cars in Europe</a> appeared first on <a href="https://alteredsteel.com">Altered Steel</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
					<wfw:commentRss>https://alteredsteel.com/american-muscle-cars-in-europe/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
			<slash:comments>1</slash:comments>
		
		
			</item>
	</channel>
</rss>
