Motorweek; 2012

A. This time on motorways. This turbo rules the road a real not your SUV and a smoother soft tail. So come drive with us next. TV's original automotive magazine brought to you by Priceline dot com with Priceline dot com you name your own price for new cards all makes and models of cars trucks sport utility vehicles minivans and more. When you log on to Priceline dot com you name your own price. And buy equal tire performance in cars light trucks and SUV as equal reduces tire vibrations so your tires can meet the road more evenly equally for added safety stability and handling for the life of your tires. And by Pep Boys. No matter what you drive Pep Boys Over 27000 items in stock virtually

any part for any car with all the name brands you know plus service pay staff with a a c certified technicians Pep Boys parts tires accessories service. Your host for Motor Week. John Davis Hello and welcome again to motor week. We're glad to have you with us as we begin our 20th year as TV's original automotive magazine. Listen to Porsche fans discuss their favorite model and you'll frequently hear them refer to one in particular as simply the turbo that exceptional car for those not quite in the know is the Porsche 911 Turbo machines that have raised drivers adrenaline levels inspired and be among pedestrians and terrified minivan drivers for 25 years and now Stuttgart has delivered what it calls the ultimate production Porsche. But 2001 911 Turbo and as we found out the legend continues to grow. With good reason because the totally new fifth generation 2001 Porsche 911

Turbo is the most sophisticated most performance intensive Porsche yet on least on the American market. Loosely based on the 9 11 career 0 4 the new turbos all wheel drive system is completely changed from the previous Turbo. Viscous clutch has been moved from the rear transaxle and integrated into the front differential. This shifts more weight forward plus allows Porsche to finally offer the turbo with the optional tiptronic. Yes automatic transmission though we naturally prefer the sharp standard six speed manual all wheel drive power to the front axle varies from 5 percent to 40 percent depending on grip and grip is further enhanced by Porsche stability management system which measures a wide variety of inputs and the R rate and then momentarily applies the anti-lock breaks to one or more wheels for cornering course correction and balance. Add in traction control forces a gas electronic throttle and a set of 18 inch alloy wheels wearing huge 295 30 Z-R 18 tires and you have one trick platform and this is before you lift the lid on the engine bay

which is packed tight with a 3.6 liter dual cam twenty four valve twin turbo water cooled flat six that's derived from the loam all winning one race car. Using Porsches improved Verio cam plus valve timing system it blurts out four hundred fifteen horsepower and a bone crushing 450 pound feet of torque. All of which is available in a steeper and broader power curve. Twenty seven hundred forty six hundred RPM. We have so much engine and traction technology and zero to 60 time a 4.1 seconds comes as no surprise. Nor does the quarter mile at twelve point six seconds and one hundred twelve miles per hour top speed is one hundred eighty nine miles per hour at launch the smooth bottom end feel from the effective all wheel drive power distribution is deceptive but the engines are massive midrange punch leaves no doubt that this is a super car and even among 911 Turbo laps of West Virginia some of Pointe Raceway were further reinforcement. The levels of power and grip a bailable in the turbo are astounding no matter how

hard you push and pull at the turbo all but refuses to fly off the tarmac. Notable understeer on high speed turn ins remains part of the character but it is tempered now and mostly invisible at street speeds with near telepathic steering. Also with the all wheel drive. Systems morning in concert with the niggers and straw run in rear suspension derived from the 9 11 3 race car the once terrible. 911 Turbo oversteer has been all but eliminated and even with PSM turned off you have to be almost reckless with the throttle the brake the rear end loose. It's really amazing. But even the grip pales next to the turbos incredible on track acceleration coming out of slow boarders the car seems to jump to warp speed pinning you back into the seat and continues to pull like a rabid freight train all the way to the next corner where the massive ABS of 13 inch dispraise with fixed Moto block four piston calipers yank the car down from speed so hard that our test driver started to feel the effect of heavy G loads after only a few laps and that

is without sports as high heat unpaid resistant ceramic disc brake systems that will be available for the turbo later this year. Yet all that performance is contained in a package that is amazingly docile when driven on the street but clutch is smooth and the shifter like to reduce but to get heavy traffic. The 18 inch rims do transmit most jolts directly to your seat but it never upsets the supercar or our stomach. A super car we might add with styling that is as functional as it is handsome but we must also say with more complex curves and fewer angles and appendages it makes a tamer statement an older 911 Turbo compared to the 911 C4. There is a new front. They shipped by Xenon head lamps and huge air intakes that feed the turbos three radiators while the rear which is almost three inches wider than that of the previous turbo wears a retracting spoiler while no whale tail it automatically extended speeds above 75 mph. The inside is little changed from other 9 11 which is not a bad thing to the

9/11 cockpit is spark efficient and reasonably roomy and covered with leather from the door panels of the supported power operated bucket seats. The combination of folding rear seats up front trunk will provide more than enough luggage space for a weekend getaway. But now to the number that separates this dream from most of our reality is the price of a sticker shock of the 2001 911 Turbo. It's one hundred eleven thousand dollars but it's few options our test car hits the road for one hundred fourteen thousand seven hundred dollars. Actually if you can find any other car in the same league with a 911 Turbo for less moola buy in. We know you'll be walking home indeed. For 25 years and through five generations the force of 911 Turbo remains one of the most unmatchable of super cars for any price. This is one long running legend fueled on facts not folklore. And it's more engaging with a traffic generation.

The best kind of car accident is the one you will avoid active handling and stability programs often called PSP or electronic stability programs are designed to help you do just that. He s p works by monitoring a car speed and direction as well as the driver's actions and then automatically applies the brake to one or more wheels to correct unstable cornering conditions. It's high tech hands off. Keep it on the road peace of mind and it's as easy as ESPN. Coming up Harley Davidsons most civilise soft tail. Now for our weekly dose of car care advice it's time to visit Pat Goss's garage where motor week's top tech has all the know how you need to keep your favorite car truck or van running right. John those projects on the car that you do in the garage will be a lot more pleasant if you straighten out the garage before you start. Of course get rid of all the trash is collected over the years and then do something with the floor.

We started out by going to the local Home Center and we put this tile down on our floor makes a very attractive job. But make sure that the tile that you select is not going to melt when you spill a little bit of gasoline or brake fluid on it or what you might want to do is you might want to step up to something like this this is pretty neat. This is motor man. It comes in these interlocking squares comes in 12 different colors. It's impervious to all of the normal chemicals that you might spill on it when you're working around the car. It has holes through it so any liquid just drains right through it anyway. You can take it with you when you go to the car show and use it even on grass to display your car. Pretty neat average garage probably $800 or less. Now suppose you update your computer what should you do with the old one throw it away. No indeed take it out in the garage. Hook it up to the Internet.

Then when you're working on the car you've got all of the specifications all of the directions all of the torque settings and part numbers and everything else that you might need right there at your fingertips on the Internet. Works wonders. OK but you're going to need a place to put everything and that means that you need something like this Dura assembly. It gives you counter space storage cabinets drawers everything that you need to keep all of those small things that you're always using around the garage. Now this entire assembly which is more than the average garage would ever need. This entire assembly is under $5000 but I saved the best to last. If you want to make the garage the most desirable room in the house you need this Corban sofa. What a wonderful piece it is. It's

designed to match the rear fenders of a 51 Mercury complete with a flame job leather upholstery and everything even has storage areas built into it. It is great. Now if you have a question about your garage or anything that deals with automobiles write to me. If I use your letter on the year I'll send you a motorway teeshirt The address is Motor Week. Always Mills Maryland 2 1 1 1 7. Thanks. Mark. The week is one that you don't see every day. It's a 1984 GMC cavalier Oh a close relative to the Chevy El Camino. This one with its optional Diablo Decker group belongs to David Saxton of Charlotte North Carolina. Now David included a copy of the original window sticker which shows that this well-equipped Cavalera left the dealer's lot for a mere twelve thousand three dollars. That's why they call them the good old days.

Tradition is a wonderful thing and no one knows motoring traditions like Harley Davidson. But that doesn't mean that they resist change when that changes for the better. Take their latest twin cam engine for example and the two years since its introduction it has spread throughout the Harley line replacing the venerable Evolution series motor and almost every model. So we just had to sample it to see how well Harley balances tradition and technology and the 21st century. To the uninitiated the Harley Davidson twin cam engine doesn't appear to offer anything new. It's still an air cooled 45 degree V-twin with pushrod valve actuation the same type of engine that's been propelling Harley Davidson motorcycles for decades. But inside that the mill You're looking powerplant there are big differences. For once a single camshaft operated all four push rods. There are now two cams hence the Twin Cam name but the differences don't stop there. Those who ride Harleys most popular soft tail line also benefit from the addition of twin change driven

counterbalances. And while the Harley engineers were at it they also bump the big twins displacement up to an even bigger 14 50 CCS or 88 cubic inches do you old timers all that plus reshape combustion chambers larger intake ports a new internal oil pump and a host of other changes that make the Twin Cam pretty much an all new engine one which on our salt kills day. Despite its best buy either a standard 40 millimeter carburetor or for 2001 optional electronic fuel injection and the results of all these changes are very impressive. The Twin Cam is not just the smoothest Harley ever but in fact feels as refined as many foreign bad beat when it's gone is the teeth chattering vibration of the evolution era replaced by a gentle loping feel at both idle and speed. Bridle response has also improved but still exhibits that annoying off idle stumble that plagued earlier Harley engines. But it's definitely stronger in fact Harley claims double digit improvements in both horsepower and torque but all without ruining that

famous Harley exhaust note. But there's more to the soft tail standard than a great new engine. All soft tail models also get a new stiffer frame as well as a new brake system with a four piston front caliper that while still requiring a healthy squeeze of the lever quickly brought our soft tail down from speed with a safe solid feel the stiffer chassis also means better handling though with a long sixty six point nine inch wheel base and soft suspension slow and easy is still the order of the day. We must admit however to being quite disappointed with the seed which lacks the support needed for all day rides and passengers get even less thanks to their rear seats narrow pad and soft foam. Our test riders were divided about the spread out riding position. Some liked it while others preferred the more upright feel of soft heel siblings like the back. All. But all agree that the twin cam engine that powers the soft tail standard is a huge leap forward one that will cost you twelve thousand five hundred thirty five dollars before dealer

mark up at the fuel injection option and pay an additional $800 while a factory security system is $250 more. With the advent of the Twin Cam engined America's most successful motorcycle manufacturer brings its most popular machines into the new millennium with a refinement and power to beat any competitor and the big win segment. And proves once again that few vehicle manufacturers car or bike can mix tradition and technology quite like Harley Davidson. We're halfway through our six month stint with this 2001 Winnebago many motorhome and so far it has served us quite well with a little over twenty five hundred miles on the clock. We have no complaints about this 44 fifty beaten chassis. All agree it's the most solid rattle free motorhome we've ever driven. This is the first time we've driven Ford six point eight leader gas to the tune and a heavy duty application and we're amazed at how quickly this 34 footer accelerates and

are impressed with the Winnies effortless highway cruising and general stability. Unlike earlier RBS we've tested the 450 chassis is stout enough to handle a bulky RV platform without feeling converse and or overloaded. Overall fuel economy is good for a two bedroom house that is at seven point three miles per gallon and one early trip even netted over 10 miles per gallon. Our most recent journey was to the Lowe's Motor Speedway in Charlotte North Carolina. There we joined up with the Winnebago Motor Sports Club to enjoy a weekend of NASCAR racing. In addition to hanging out with other our beers the Motor Sports Club package includes an autograph session. Race tickets and secure parking. It's worth checking out. Operating in self-contained mode with generator power and on board water the midsized Winnie has more than enough capacity for a couples weekend needs. We found accommodations comfortable and the amenities first rate. We especially like the slide out living room that extra couple of feet of space almost makes you forget you're in a

motorhome. It's been fun rediscovering the joys of on the road camping and we'll keep you up to date on all our Winnebagos adventures in the months to come. Until then get the lowdown on two other motor week Road Warriors. The Mazda MPV and the Porsche Boxster S on our next motor week long term road test update. Now for the newest products from the automotive world Here's Jennifer has Navas with all the latest Motor News. Since so many. These If at the market there are many choices when it comes to four wheel drive vehicles and now one of the companies who started it all is bringing their hot seller in Europe over to the US. It's the long awaited 2002 Land Rover Freelander and it couldn't be entering the US market at a better time. This all will drive many new disk a bull on as well as off road under the hood you'll find it's 2.5 leader dual overhead cam 24 valve IE 6 with a variable induction system producing 175 horsepower and one hundred seventy seven pound feet of torque. And with the addition of the new 5 speed step tri transmission drivers can choose between the

automatic or manual shifter. The Freelander doesn't lack the features of the older siblings either with EBD or electronic brake distribution and Landrover signature Hill Descent control all standard. The freelancer's interval unibody in frame construction contribute to this many units high structural rigidity. And for a Land Rover first the Freelander incorporates the use of polymer composite body panels for added durability. The exterior styling also holds true to the Land Rover brand. The Teuton rocker panels and grill modeled after the Land Rover Discovery portend the adventure you will experience in the Freelander. Inside the cabin five passengers fit comfortably both cloth and leather seats will be available and I AM FM stereo with an index CD player a standard with land over North America's introduction of the Freelander. Those who felt the Landrover with too pricey for their budgets will no longer need to have that concern. The Freelander is expected. Go on sale in November of 2001. Price is estimated to be between 25 and 30 thousand dollars and that's it for this week's Potter news.

Hiding underneath there's less than stylish body padding is the new 2002 Cadillac caetera or as our sources indicate the new Cadillac CTX the probable new moniker for that could tear up the stack front headlamps and triangular Grail so market influence from the U-boat show car and the CPS will ride on a completely new Sigma rear wheel drive platform that will be shared with the next Seville. Also production for the new c ts will be moved to the US as opposed to Germany where the current caetera is manufactured. Power will most likely come from a 3.5 lead or two hundred twenty five horsepower. Double grid cam North storage or ride V-6. What the unstoppable popularity of SUV is it's no surprise that nearly every automaker on the planet wants to sell one. Now some like Acura Ford partnerships to rebadge an existing SUV to quickly establish their presence.

But in an increasingly crowded and fickle market they learn that buyers are looking for something unique and it's hard to call something your own when it is running around under two or three different names. So for Acura The answer was to hit the drawing boards with one goal in mind to create an Acura SUV that would set new benchmarks and luxury SUV performance. And they call it the MDX. And we call the 2001 Acura MDX one of the smoothest running and handling SUV on the planet. As Acura designers and engineers have struck a near perfect balance between their sophisticated sedan and capable sport utility. And it's evident the instant you open the door and slide into the wide roomy interior once behind the wheel you'll appreciate the comfort and support offered by the eight way power perforated leather bucket seat to use the MDX touring package in the front passenger seat gains power adjustments to seat for both a standard. The center stack to the right

provides a home for the automatic climate control accuracy DVD satellite navigation system. And a cassette CD stereo moved to the back and again you'll immediately notice how easy it is to enter and exit. And while the bottoms are rather flat and firm the seat backs are recline a ball and there's plenty of leg room to take on a couple of extra passengers the MDX can handle them too. With these clever third row seats that pull off out of the floor when needed. Both the third and second row seats and the MDX will accommodate 80 1.5 cubic feet of your most treasured stuff. And move 3.5 leader single overhead cam 24 valve VTech V-6 under the hood. Move them just about anywhere you want in a civilized manner. This 50 state ultra low emissions engine is deceptively powerful too with 240 horsepower and 245 pound feet of torque on tap. The MDX took us to 60 in only seven point six seconds and on through the quarter

mile and fifteen point nine seconds at 87 mph the wide ratio 5 speed automatic transmission delivers seamless shifts although a more aggressive down shift would inspire more confidence. Passing. But there's no lack of confidence when it comes to the MDX is the lightweight variable torque management flaw will drive system. PTM for use as an open front differential and electronically controlled clutch packs to deliver power to the rear wheels when needed. But unlike some systems that are activated only one wheel slippage is detected the VTM for system anticipates the need for all wheel drive and engages the rear wheels before wheel slip occur. The system seems perfect for all weather on road applications and modest off road work. The driver can also temporarily lock the front and rear axles together to help extract the MDX. If they get stuck the gear shift must be in first second or reverse and the system unlocks at 80 mph. One son stuck an up to speed with 4 will disk

for channel ABS brakes the MDX is fully capable of bringing you quickly to a halt but it's not without a little drama with average stop from 60 up 132 feet. Drivers noticed a tendency for the rear in to step out slightly causing the need for a bit of correction. The same stepping out characteristic was noticed in runs through our low speed slalom as well due most likely to the soft springs of the fully independent suspension and the MDX is healthy four thousand three hundred twenty eight pound curve weight but out on the road that softly strong suspension pays big dividends as the MDX offers a ride that rivals the best midsize sedan. Acura is expecting the MDX to pay big dividends in the showroom as well. And with a well equipped model price and an estimated $35000 their sales goal of 35000 to 40000 units in the first year should be no problem with an increasingly selective but still SUV thirsty public enjoying the ride of a robust

economy. The 2001 Acura MDX is another tantalizing choice at the burgeoning sport you'd say. And while Acura may be a bit late to the SUV party at least this time they're coming and their own rock. I hope you'll join us next week for more motorway. Well Tess Cadillac the big gala going to escalate and a pair of approval for divorce from Jennifer shows us a unique appreciation of the automobile. God shows us that you still can do it yourself. I have another long term road test that day and all the latest Motor News. I'm John Davis. Well. To learn more about Motor Week TV's original automotive magazine visit us online at PBS dot org or America Online keyword PBS motor week has been brought to you by Priceline dot com with Priceline dot com you name your own

price for new cars all makes and models of cars trucks sport utility vehicles many vans and more. When you log on to Priceline dot com you name your own price and buy equal tire performance in cars light trucks and SUV equal reduces tire vibrations so your tires can meet the road more evenly equal for added safety stability and handling for the life of your tires. And by pep boys no matter what you drive at Boyce's over 27000 items in stock virtually any part for any car with all the name brands you know plus service space staffed with certified technicians Pep Boys parts tires accessories service to order a video cassette of this program call 1 800 4 2 2 0 0 6 4.