Motorweek; 2001

This time on motorways. This turbo rules the road. A real Acura SUV and a smoother soft tail. So for our 20th year come try with us next. Google. Television's original automotive magazine 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 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 equals 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

certified technicians Pep Boys parts tires accessories service. Your host for Motor Week. John Davis. Welcome again to motorway. 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 envy among pedestrians and terrified minivan drivers for 25 years and now Stuttgart has delivered what it calls the ultimate production Porsche. The 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 for sure yet unleashed 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 forces stability management system which measures a wide variety of inputs and they are right and then momentarily applies the anti-lock breaks to one or more wheels or cornering course correction and balance and 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 24 valve twin turbo water

cooled flat 6 that's derived from the low ma 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 of 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 available 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 in VSAM systems working in concert with a person strong run in rear suspension derived from the 9 11 3 race car. Who wants a camera phone. 911 Turbo oversteer has been all but eliminated and even with PSM turned off you have to be almost reckless with the bridle to break 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. Get all that performance is contained in a package that is amazingly docile when driven on the street but want to smoothen the shifter like to reduce it 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 pure angles than appendages it makes a tamer statement an older 911 Turbo compared to the 911 C4. There is a new front bay 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 front well 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 is one hundred eleven thousand dollars but its 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 fortune. Eleven turbo remains one of the most unmatchable of super cars for any price. This is one long running legend fueled on back not. Before. And it's more engaging with the traffic generation to get the most out of four wheel ABS brakes.

Remember three little words stomp today and steer stomp the brake pedal in a panic stop stepping on the brake pedal even if it vibrates or makes noise and steer where you want to go. ABS brakes work best when you stop stay and steer. Now for our weekly dose of car care advice it's time to visit Pat Goss's garage where motor week's top tack 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 mat comes in these interlocking squares comes in 12 different colors. Its 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 air I'll send you a motorway teeshirt The address is Motor Week. Always Mills Maryland 2 1 1 1 7. Thanks. Our car. Of 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. Where once a single camshaft operated all four pushrods 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 counterbalance or. And while the Harley engineers were at it they also bumped 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 soft skills day. There are tests like it's fed by 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 arrives 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 tail siblings like the fastball. 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. Add 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 a car or bike can mix tradition and technology quite like Harley Davidson. The purpose of motor weeks long term road test program is to subject significant new vehicles to as many miles as possible as quickly as possible and see how they hold up for periods up to a year. You want to know how they hold up mechanically and how they hold up to our initial road test impression. After all we love this Mazda MPV vs minivan when we first tested it last year. Now after eight months and fifteen thousand seven hundred miles our enthusiasm has been tempered only slightly. The second generation MPV traded rear for front wheel drawn. But he didn't trade Mazda's reputation for above average handling. This minivan really does drive like a well-tuned sedan its sliding doors may lack the power assist of some competitors but the roll down windows compensate. True it is also

not as big as some other minivans but they are easy to remove center seats and fold into the floor rear seat. Give a class leading versatility. Mileage for the modest 170 horsepower V-6 has risen to par for minivans at nineteen point nine mpg. But then we tend to drive the NPB with the gusto normally reserved for sporty car. If there really is such a thing as a sporty minivan a Mazda MPV is it. This Mitsubishi Eclipse is a sporty coupe but like the MPV it represents a major departure from the truth. Will main say the newest eclipse looks like moving sculpture and drives like a larger car. The addition of the six engine option also broadened its appeal substantially. Well the five speed manual shifter could be smoother and there are lots of blind spots. But then the character of the car overcome such nit picks plus a 25 mpg after 11000 miles. The eclipse delivers good economy and

performance. Speaking of economy nothing beats this 2000 Honda Insight. As for performance how about this Porsche Boxster ass. Both up on our next motor week long term road test update. Now for the newest products from the automotive world Here's Jennifer. With all the latest Motor News. It was back in 1903 that the Chrysler Corporation turned the automotive world on its ear with the introduction of the minivan. It's been the sales leader of the minivan ever since. And from the looks of the 2001 lineup it's a title that I'm a Chrysler doesn't intend to give up anytime soon. And that's because the 2001 Dodge and Chrysler minivans like this Dodge Grand Caravan se are not only sporting a freshly cut appearance and finally dual power sliding doors they're also loaded with plenty of minivan firsts like this convenient power lift that can be raised or lowered with controls mounted on the key and on the overhead console. The power liftgate takes only four seconds to operate in either direction and includes an obstacle detection feature that measures resistance to movement to keep the liftgate from being

damaged. Little fingers from getting pinched it around town errands and groceries are your primary missions. You'll appreciate another mini van first position pop up rear cargo organizer with dividers and storage for six paper grocery bags. There's also a back mounted hooks to handle plastic bags. If you have larger items on your list the Grand Caravan makes it easier for you to handle them too as do the folding third row seats which are now split into a 50/50 configuration but still mounted on wheels for easy removal. Other minivan firsts include a three zone automatic temperature control system and this clever removable console that can be positioned either between the front row or second row seat. In locations the Consul's power outlet is fully operational you'll find the power coming from under the hood fully operational as well with three power train options to choose from. The standard offering on SE models is a two point four leader dual overhead cam 16 valve I for one hundred fifty horsepower and one hundred sixty seven pound feet of

torque fed through a three speed automatic transmission for a little more punch you can step up to the refined three point three leader overhead valve 12 valve 6 that now puts out 180 horsepower and 210 pound weight of to work. For this three point eight leader overhead valve valve V-6. That's also been tweaked to increase output from 100 to 200 15 horsepower with torque now at two hundred forty five pound feet. Both 6 is run through a four speed automatic transaxle. And if that's not enough engine choices for you a new 3.5 leader 230 horsepower V-6 will arrive on the scene early next year. The 2001 Chrysler and Dodge minivans will hit dealers showrooms this fall will have a more in-depth look at these new minivans in an upcoming Motor Week road test and that's it for this week's Motor News. From the look on this driver's face he knows he's been caught in the crosshairs as he sits behind the wheel of this 2002 Jeep Cherokee prototype. And despite the artful use of body

padding it's plain to see the new Cherokee will sport a more rounded look in the future. Rumor has it that exterior dimensions are a little smaller than the current model but interior room is up especially if the space robbing spare remains bounded to the tailgate as shown here. And the independent rear suspension of the new 3.7 leader V-6 will also be available on the new Cherokee. With the unstoppable popularity of SUV it's no surprise that nearly every automaker on the planet wants to sell one. Now some like Acura for 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.

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 a 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. Move to the back end again you'll immediately notice how easy it is to enter an exit. And while the bottoms are rather flat and firm the seat backs are recline of all and there's plenty of leg room. Should you decide to take on a couple of extra passengers the MDX going to handle them to

club or third row seats that pull off out of the floor when needed. Fold both the third and second row seats and the MDX will accommodate 80 1.5 cubic feet of your most treasured stuff. And with this move 3.5 leaders single overhead cam 24 valve the tech basics under the hood. Move them just about anywhere you want in a civilized manner. This 50 state ultra low emissions engine is deceptively powerful 2 with 240 horsepower and two hundred forty five 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 when passing. But there is no lack of confidence when it comes to the MDX is the lightweight variable torque management four wheel drive system. For use is 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 occurred. The system seems perfect for all weather on road applications and modest off road. Sure. 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 four will disc 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 and while Acura may be a bit late to the SUV party at least this time they're coming in their own garage. I hope you'll join us next week for more motor weight.

Well we'll test the latest and hottest edition of America's premier sports car the Chevrolet Corvette CEOs six and Toyota's latest open air offering the Solara convertible. I'm John Davis. We'll see you then 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 minivans and more. When you log on to Priceline dot com you name your own price and buy equal tire performance in cars like 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 voices over 27000 items in stock virtually any part for any car with all the name brands you know plus service space staffed with a a c certified technician that boys parts tires

accessories service. All. This.