Mercedes 300 S, 1951

 

Mercedes 300 S, 1951

The Mercedes-Benz Type 300 (chassis codes W186, W188, and W189) were the company's largest and most-prestigious models throughout the 1950s. Analogous to today's S-Class, the Type 300 cars were elegant, powerful, exclusive, and expensive. This series was also often called the Adenauer after Konrad Adenauer, Chancellor of Germany at the time. Adenauer used six of these cars during his time as Chancellor.

The majority of the company's sales at this time were in the less-expensive Ponton series. Both the Type 300 and Ponton series were replaced by the "Heckflosse" cars of the early 1960s.

W186
The "W186" Type 300 was essentially a pre-war chassis with a more-modern body. A modern 3 L (2996 cc/182 in³) straight-6 engine was used, however. Introduced in 1951, the Type 300 was available as a sedan or cabriolet, both with four doors and seating for six. One innovative feature was a rear load-levelling suspension, operated by a switch on the dashboard.

The Type 300 featured many luxury features. A Becker radio, VHF mobile telephone, and dictation machine were geared to the business man or politician. Adenauer's cars had a writing desk, sirens, curtains, a dividing partition, and other such features.

A special Innenlenker model (also called the Type 300 Lang) limousine model rode on a 20 cm (7.9 in) longer wheelbase.

1954 saw power brakes introduced with the Type 300 b. A larger rear window was added in September, 1955 on the Type 300 c. This car was priced at $10,864 in the United States, with the convertible commanding a pricy $14,231. The c also featured a swing axle rear independent suspension.

The B-pillar was removed for a hardtop look in the Type 300 d (chassis code W189) of August 1957. The car was produced through March 1962 with 3,077 built. With a compression ratio of 8.55:1 and Bosch fuel injection, the 300 d produced 160 hp (119 kW). The limousine version was replaced by the W112 300SE, while the W111 220/230 took over at the lower end until the W108/W109 250/280/300 was ready in 1965.

W188
The "W188" Type 300 S was Mercedes-Benz's top-end vehicle on its introduction in 1952. The Type 300 S came as a 2+2 coupe, cabriolet (with landau bars), or roadster. Although mechanically similar to the contemporary W186, the W188 was marketed as one of the top luxury cars in the world.

7.8:1 compression and triple Solex carburettors raised engine output to 150 hp (112 kW) at 5000 rpm.

1955 saw the substitution of Mercedes-Benz's "low-pivot" independent suspension in the rear, and the addition of fuel injection in the Type 300 Sc. Visually, a pair of chrome strips on either side of the hood denotes this "Sc" model.

Mercedes 220, 1951

 

Mercedes 220, 1951

The W187 was Mercedes-Benz's line of six-cylinder luxury cars in the early-1950s. It was sold as a sedan, coupe, and cabriolet, all with the 220 model name. Introduced at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 1951, the 220 sedan was replaced by the W105/W180 line in 1953. The coupe and cabriolet lasted until August of 1955.

All 220s used a 2.2 L (2195 cc/133 in³) straight-6 engine producing 80 hp (60 kW). The styling was similar to the 170 S except that the headlights were integrated into the fenders for a slightly more modern look. Two different cabriolet models were built, but they only sold 1,278 and 997 for the "A" and "B" versions, respectively.

Hummer H2 SUT Dirt Sport Concept, 2003

 

Hummer H2 SUT Dirt Sport Concept, 2003

The H2 is the second vehicle sold under the Hummer marque of General Motors. It is a large SUV (though smaller than the Hummer H1) with room for five passengers and substantial off-road ability. The rearmost part of the H2 SUV was modified to a pickup truck bed for the 2004 H2 SUT ("Sport Utility Truck").

Overview
The H2 is built under contract by AM General at a specially constructed plant in Mishawaka, Indiana, USA. Although it shares GM's GMT820 truck platform with the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon, those vehicles differ in many ways and are constructed in three other GM plants. The H2's final frame assembly is made up of 3 sections: The front uses a modified GM 2500-Series utility frame, the mid-section is all new and is completely boxed, and the rear section uses a modifed GM 1500-Series frame which is upgraded for the 8000 pound (3629 kg) gross vehicle weight.

H2 sales were initially strong, but fell to 28,898 for 2004 and 23,213 for 2005.
The H2 was nominated for the North American Truck of the Year award for 2003.

Engine
2003–2005 6000 6.0 L (366 in³) V8

Capabilities
With its high ground clearance, large tires, protective underbody plates, and low gearing, the H2 is capable of climbing over a 20-inch-high (0.4 m) step-up wall. A massive truck frame and wide track offer stability against overturning compared to some of the more common light truck SUVs, although objective tests have not been performed by the government or other outside parties due to its specialised vehicle class.

The Fuel economy
For typical travel on improved roads, users report fuel economy of between 10 and 14 miles per gallon, which converts to between 14 and 17 L/100 km. Worst case urban driving is said to be in the range of 8 to 14 U.S. mpg (21 to 25 L/100 km). Although General Motors does not provide official H2 fuel economy ratings, most reviews have observed high single to low double-digit mileage, similar to the numbers above.

It should be noted that other large vehicles also have poor fuel economy especially with optional larger engines including the Dodge Ram 1500 series pickup trucks equipped with either the 8.3L V10 (MSRP US$48,500) or the 4.7L V8 Flexible Fuel engine running E85 fuel (MSRP US$31,300). Both of these engines are rated at 9 U.S. mpg city and 11 U.S. mpg highway by the E.P.A. as one example.

The Tax benefits
Under the United States income tax code, the cost of vehicles over 6,000 pounds (2722 kg) can be deducted from income. This deduction was enacted decades ago to assist self-employed people in purchasing a vehicle for business use. The weight minimum was intended to limit the deduction to commercial-type trucks. For many years, the deduction remained below the average cost of a new vehicle, since large trucks were relatively inexpensive. Since it is a reduction in taxable income, the actual value of this deduction averages 30% of the price of the vehicle in question.

The increasing popularity of these vehicles in the last decade, however, pushed their average price to nearly double the average passenger car cost. In response, the 2002 Tax Act increased this "Section 179 depreciation deduction" to US$75,000, and it rose again to US$102,000 for the 2004 tax year. This is more than three times the current average cost of a passenger car in the United States and covers a large number of luxury models, including the Hummer H2. In late 2004, the deduction was again reduced to US$25,000.

The Criticism
The Hummer H2 is one of the most severely criticized civilian vehicles on the market today. Critics have expressed concern at the fuel economy which they cite as being among the most inefficient of vehicles. The Environmental Protection Agency does not test them for fuel economy because of their weight, they are thus categorised as light trucks and thus are not bound to fuel economy standards.

The Hummer H2 is criticised for contributing towards petroleum comsumption in the United States. In addition, they are criticized for obstructing the views of drivers behind them with their large vehicles. Criticism is also leveled at the H2 by safety advocates who have expressed concern that their size and height make them far deadlier to smaller vehicles as well as bicyclists, and pedestrians since the front of the Hummer H2 will likely strike the head and/or chest where injuries are far more life-threatening instead of the knees where regular cars are most likely to impact a pedestrian.

Hummer H1, 2003

 

 

Hummer H1, 2003

The Hummer H1 is a civilian vehicle based on the High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV), popularly known as the Humvee, which was created by AM General.

History
Originally released in the civilian market in 1992, the Hummer H1 owes its birth to the popularity of photos from Operation Desert Storm and the enthusiastic campaign from actor Arnold Schwarzenegger, who personally owns several variants of Hummer vehicles. GM announced that 2006 would be the last model year for the Hummer H1 with production winding down in June 2006, due to a new emission laws for Diesel engine vehicles which take effect in 2007. No version of the Hummer H1 ever produced would meet these new standards. AM General currently has orders for an excess of 50,000 new HMMWVs to be produced between 2006-2009 for the United States Military. AM General also will continue to produce the H1, just not the Alpha. These vehicles will be sold through Fleet sales. The next H1 will most-likely bear a refined version of the prior 6.5L Turbo Diesel engine, but that has not been confirmed. Selling the H1's through fleet sales will allow the AM General to not be subjected to the new emission rules and regulations. AM General has sufficient fleet orders to produce 600-800 units per year right now.

The Specifications
The Hummer H1 has three common variants: a convertible-like soft top, a four-door hard top pickup truck and a Wagon body version. Other less known variants include a two-door pickup truck and a four-door slantback. At this time, the convertible/soft top and the station wagon versions are the only ones available in the mass market. The two door and four door pickup versions are only available in fleet livery.

5 engine types and three automatic transmission types can be found in Hummer H1s. The common engine/transmission combinations are:

•  6.2 L Detroit Diesel V8/GM TH400/3L80 3-speed
•  6.5 L Detroit Diesel V8/GM 4L80-E 4-speed
•  5.7 L Vortec 5700 gasoline V8 TBI/GM 4L80-E 4-speed
•  6.5 L turbo Detroit Diesel V8/GM 4L80-E 4-speed
•  6.6 L Duramax LLY turbo Diesel/Allison 1000 5-speed (model year 2006)

The Hummer H1 shares some common driveline parts with its HMMWV brethren. Items like brakes, differentials, frame and major body panels (hood, tailgate and quarter panels) are identical between the HMMWV and the Hummer H1. All Hummer H1s and HMMWVs come off the same first stage assembly line, and then are separated midway to either become a military HMMWV or a civilian H1.

Hummer H1s are unique in the way they handle off road. They are inherently very stable, thanks to their wide stance. They also can ford 30 inches (76 cm) of water, climb a 22-inch (56 cm) step, have a stock ground clearance of 16 inches (41 cm) (thanks to its design of tucking driveline components inside a channel, which subsequently intrudes into the cabin space of the vehicle), have approach/departure angles of 72/37.5 degrees and most H1s are equipped with Central Tire Inflation System (CTIS), which enables the driver to increase or decrease the tire air pressure at will.

The Hummer H1s have many unusual features. They use inboard brakes. They have geared hubs, allowing the drivetrain's half shafts to be up high for greater clearance. The radiator is up high, sloping back over the engine. Rather than using simple runflat tires, aluminum or rubber inserts are an optional feature for runflat ability. A central tire inflation system is available as an option. Chemical warfare resistant paint is  only on the military version.

Price
Price is projected to be around US$129,399 for the open-top, and US$140,796 for the wagon.

Hummer H1 10th Anniversary Edition, 2002

 

Hummer H1 10th Anniversary Edition, 2002

The Hummer H1 is a civilian vehicle based on the High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV), popularly known as the Humvee, which was created by AM General.

History
Originally released in the civilian market in 1992, the Hummer H1 owes its birth to the popularity of photos from Operation Desert Storm and the enthusiastic campaign from actor Arnold Schwarzenegger, who personally owns several variants of Hummer vehicles. GM announced that 2006 would be the last model year for the Hummer H1 with production winding down in June 2006, due to a new emission laws for Diesel engine vehicles which take effect in 2007. No version of the Hummer H1 ever produced would meet these new standards. AM General currently has orders for an excess of 50,000 new HMMWVs to be produced between 2006-2009 for the United States Military. AM General also will continue to produce the H1, just not the Alpha. These vehicles will be sold through Fleet sales. The next H1 will most-likely bear a refined version of the prior 6.5L Turbo Diesel engine, but that has not been confirmed. Selling the H1's through fleet sales will allow the AM General to not be subjected to the new emission rules and regulations. AM General has sufficient fleet orders to produce 600-800 units per year right now.

Specifications
The Hummer H1 has three common variants: a convertible-like soft top, a four-door hard top pickup truck and a Wagon body version. Other less known variants include a two-door pickup truck and a four-door slantback. At this time, the convertible/soft top and the station wagon versions are the only ones available in the mass market. The two door and four door pickup versions are only available in fleet livery.

Five engine types and three automatic transmission types can be found in Hummer H1s. The common engine/transmission combinations are:

•     * 6.2 L Detroit Diesel V8/GM TH400/3L80 3-speed
•     * 6.5 L Detroit Diesel V8/GM 4L80-E 4-speed
•     * 5.7 L Vortec 5700 gasoline V8 TBI/GM 4L80-E 4-speed
•     * 6.5 L turbo Detroit Diesel V8/GM 4L80-E 4-speed
•     * 6.6 L Duramax LLY turbo Diesel/Allison 1000 5-speed (model year 2006)

The Hummer H1 shares some common driveline parts with its HMMWV brethren. Items like brakes, differentials, frame and major body panels (hood, tailgate and quarter panels) are identical between the HMMWV and the Hummer H1. All Hummer H1s and HMMWVs come off the same first stage assembly line, and then are separated midway to either become a military HMMWV or a civilian H1.

Hummer H1s are unique in the way they handle off road. They are inherently very stable, thanks to their wide stance. They also can ford 30 inches (76 cm) of water, climb a 22-inch (56 cm) step, have a stock ground clearance of 16 inches (41 cm) (thanks to its design of tucking driveline components inside a channel, which subsequently intrudes into the cabin space of the vehicle), have approach/departure angles of 72/37.5 degrees and most H1s are equipped with Central Tire Inflation System (CTIS), which enables the driver to increase or decrease the tire air pressure at will.

Hummer H1s have many unusual features. They use inboard brakes. They have geared hubs, allowing the drivetrain's half shafts to be up high for greater clearance. The radiator is up high, sloping back over the engine. Rather than using simple runflat tires, aluminum or rubber inserts are an optional feature for runflat ability. A central tire inflation system is available as an option. Chemical warfare resistant paint is available only on the military version.

Price
Price is projected to be around US$129,399 for the open-top, and US$140,796 for the wagon.

Hummer H2 SUV Concept, 2002

 Hummer H2 SUV Concept, 2002

The H2 is the second vehicle sold under the Hummer marque of General Motors. It is a large SUV (though smaller than the Hummer H1) with room for five passengers and substantial off-road ability. The rearmost part of the H2 SUV was modified to a pickup truck bed for the 2004 H2 SUT ("Sport Utility Truck").

The H2 is built under contract by AM General at a specially constructed plant in Mishawaka, Indiana, USA. Although it shares GM's GMT820 truck platform with the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon, those vehicles differ in many ways and are constructed in three other GM plants. The H2's final frame assembly is made up of 3 sections: The front uses a modified GM 2500-Series utility frame, the mid-section is all new and is completely boxed, and the rear section uses a modifed GM 1500-Series frame which is upgraded for the 8000 pound (3629 kg) gross vehicle weight.

H2 sales were initially strong, but fell to 28,898 for 2004 and 23,213 for 2005.
The H2 was nominated for the North American Truck of the Year award for 2003.

The Engine
2003–2005 6000 6.0 L (366 in³) V8

Capabilities
With its high ground clearance, large tires, protective underbody plates, and low gearing, the H2 is capable of climbing over a 20-inch-high (0.4 m) step-up wall. A massive truck frame and wide track offer stability against overturning compared to some of the more common light truck SUVs, although objective tests have not been performed by the government or other outside parties due to its specialised vehicle class.

The Fuel economy
For typical travel on improved roads, users report fuel economy of between 10 and 14 miles per gallon, which converts to between 14 and 17 L/100 km. Worst case urban driving is said to be in the range of 8 to 14 U.S. mpg (21 to 25 L/100 km). Although General Motors does not provide official H2 fuel economy ratings, most reviews have observed high single to low double-digit mileage, similar to the numbers above.

It should be noted that other large vehicles also have poor fuel economy especially with optional larger engines including the Dodge Ram 1500 series pickup trucks equipped with either the 8.3L V10 (MSRP US$48,500) or the 4.7L V8 Flexible Fuel engine running E85 fuel (MSRP US$31,300). Both of these engines are rated at 9 U.S. mpg city and 11 U.S. mpg highway by the E.P.A. as one example.

Tax benefits
Under the United States income tax code, the cost of vehicles over 6,000 pounds (2722 kg) can be deducted from income. This deduction was enacted decades ago to assist self-employed people in purchasing a vehicle for business use. The weight minimum was intended to limit the deduction to commercial-type trucks. For many years, the deduction remained below the average cost of a new vehicle, since large trucks were relatively inexpensive. Since it is a reduction in taxable income, the actual value of this deduction averages 30% of the price of the vehicle in question.

The increasing popularity of these vehicles in the last decade, however, pushed their average price to nearly double the average passenger car cost. In response, the 2002 Tax Act increased this "Section 179 depreciation deduction" to US$75,000, and it rose again to US$102,000 for the 2004 tax year. This is more than three times the current average cost of a passenger car in the United States and covers a large number of luxury models, including the Hummer H2. In late 2004, the deduction was again reduced to US$25,000.

Criticism
The Hummer H2 is one of the most severely criticized civilian vehicles on the market today. Critics have expressed concern at the fuel economy which they cite as being among the most inefficient of vehicles. The Environmental Protection Agency does not test them for fuel economy because of their weight, they are thus categorised as light trucks and thus are not bound to fuel economy standards.

The Hummer H2 is criticised for contributing towards petroleum comsumption in the United States. In addition, they are criticized for obstructing the views of drivers behind them with their large vehicles. Criticism is also leveled at the H2 by safety advocates who have expressed concern that their size and height make them far deadlier to smaller vehicles as well as bicyclists, and pedestrians since the front of the Hummer H2 will likely strike the head and/or chest where injuries are far more life-threatening instead of the knees where regular cars are most likely to impact a pedestrian.

VW Rabbit, 1977

 

VW Rabbit, 1977

The Volkswagen Rabbit GTI, the North American version of the high-performance Golf GTI, debuted in the 1983 model year and was in production for two seasons. Assembled from parts made in Mexico, Canada, Germany and the U.S. in Volkswagen's Westmoreland, Pennsylvania assembly plant, the Rabbit GTI had the same Mk1 chassis, and the same A1 body type as the Mk1 Golf GTI that had been on sale in Europe since 1976, with a few exceptions. Key distinct features of the Rabbit GTI were its GTI surname, the squared front end styling, blue or red felt and leatherette trim, and its alloy "snowflake" wheels. 

The squared styling of the front end, particularly the wraparound blinkers, gave it added safety and slight improvement in performance. Under the hood, the engine was a JH 1.8 liter 4-cylinder engine that ran on unleaded petroleum fuel. The JH 1.8l was transversely mounted, and it would peak in stock condition at around 80-85 HP. Claims to gas mileage of near-perfectly tuned Rabbit GTIs range between 25 and 30 miles per gallon.

Note that the Rabbit GTI first appeared in Canada in 1979 with the 1.8l engine and 5spd transmission. It was initially available in red, white and black.

Subaru Alcyone, 1985

Subaru Alcyone, 1985

The Subaru XT, XT6, and Alcyone were sporty coupes sold from 1985 to 1991 by Subaru. The XT was sold in Australia and New Zealand as the Vortex and the XT6 was sold in North America and Europe. The Alcyone was sold in Japan. All were available in front wheel drive or all wheel drive (depending on the year).

The XT was replaced by the Subaru SVX in 1992.
The Alcyone is named after the brightest star in the Pleiades star cluster, on which the Subaru logo is based.

Subaru has earned a reputation for designing and marketing unusual vehicles—sometimes successfully, sometimes not. The Subaru XT is no exception. First introduced in February 1985 in the United States (June 1985 in Japan), the XT was a wedged-shaped departure from the 1970s-influenced curves of the previous models, aimed directly at the heart of the 1980s. When introduced, the New York Times called it "the ultimate in jazzy design", in contrast to Subaru's older "cheap and ugly" offerings. Its unusual wedge shape led to the unflattering nickname, "flying doorstop".

The XT was loaded with features rarely found on small cars, such as a turbocharger, a computer-controlled engine and transmission, adjustable height suspension and an optional digital instrument cluster. The XT also had some features found on few other cars, such as an electronic in-dash trip computer, retractable flaps covering the door handles, and a single wiper blade for the entire windshield.

Drivetrain
The 1985 XT was fitted with two engines:

• EA82: 1781 cc F4 producing 97 hp (72 kW) at 5200 rpm and 103 ft·lbf (140 Nm) at 3200 rpm (9.5:1 compression ratio)
• EA82T: 1781 cc turbocharged F4 producing 111 hp (83 kW) at 4800 rpm and 143 ft·lbf (194 Nm) at 2800 rpm (7.5:1 compression ratio) (Some sources say 7.7:1.) In europe the power of the xt turbo was raised to 136 hp (100 kW)

The equipment and specifications:

• 1781 cc (108.7 in³) displacement (92x87 mm/3.62x3.425")
• Multi-port fuel injection
• Single overhead camshafts (note that because these are flat engines, all are equipped with two such camshafts)

The XT was available with both manual and automatic transmissions. Early XTs were available as either front wheel drive or part-time four wheel drive, selectable by a push button atop the shifter. After 1987, the part time four wheel drive system was replaced with an all wheel drive system.

Features

Unusual features:

•  Retractable door-handle flaps
•  Single front wiper blade
•  Steering wheel with a single vertical and a single horizontal spoke
•  Pistol-grip shifter
•  Microprocessor engine and transmission management
•  Steering wheel with both tilt and reach adjustment
•  Instrument cluster that tilted with the steering wheel

Furthermore, some models were equipped with additional features:

•  Digital instrument cluster that tilted with the steering wheel
•  Trip computer with range/fuel management facilities
•  Pneumatic suspension with height control
•  Push-button four wheel drive (later changed to all wheel drive)
•  Hill holder brake system, prevented rolling on hills in the manual transmission version.

Like other Subaru models of the same vintage, the XT was sold in three models: the base-model DL, the better-equipped GL, and the top-of-the-range GL-10. Many of the options mentioned above were available only on the GL-10.

Two F4-powered derivatives were sold in Japan: the four wheel drive Alcyone VR, and the front wheel drive Alcyone VS. Both were equipped with turbocharged motors.

The XT received a minor update in 1987 for the second half of the 1987 model year, roughly corresponding to the 1988 launch of the XT6. Early XTs are easily distinguished from later models by inspecting the taillight and reverse light configuration - early models had reverse lights in the rear bumper, while 1987 1/2-up models had the reverse lights in the center taillight panel. All wheel drive turbo and six-cylinder models can be distinguished by the shape of the headrests; base models had solid headrests, whereas the turbo AWD and six-cylinder models had a large rectangular hole through the center.

Oldsmobile Bravada, 2000

 

Oldsmobile Bravada, 2000

The Bravada was a luxury SUV from the Oldsmobile marque of General Motors. There have been two different vehicles to bear this model name, the first and second-generation GMT330, and the 2002 to 2004 GMT360.

1991
The 1991 Bravada was an upscale version of the then-new 4-door S-Blazer/Jimmy. It was the first truck-based vehicle offered by Oldsmobile since the 1920s, and by that time was a United States-only vehicle. Unlike its siblings, the Bravada was only offered with "Smart Trak" all-wheel drive, leather upholstery, and the 4.3 L Z-code engine. Anti-lock brakes and remote keyless entry were also standard. This version was produced through 1994.

Engines

• 1991 - 4.3 L Vortec 4300 V6, TBI, 160 hp (119 kW)/230 ft·lbf (312 N·m) (VIN Z)
• 1992-1994 - 4.3 L Vortec 4300 V6, CPFI, 200 hp (149 kW) (VIN W)

Fuel Economy
The first generation Bravada with the 160 hp engine averaged EPA city/highway 17/22 mpg. The first generation with the 200 hp engine averaged 16/21 mpg.

1996
The Bravada was refreshed later than the others, with no 1995 models produced. The 1996 and 1997 models were less boxy than their predecessor. Daytime running lamps were standard fare including a driver's airbag. The interior styling was more appealing to the eye with less ridges and squares, much like the exterior. Another refreshening occurred in 1998, with a revised interior including dual airbags and a new front fascia which included the new Aurora inspired Oldsmobile logo. OnStar was available in 1999 as a cell phone unit, later becoming integrated into the rearview mirror in 2001 with available features like hands-free calling and virtual advisor. A Bose sound system was added for 1999 and the engine was redesigned in 2000, though output remained the same. A new two-tone exterior dubbed the Platinum Edition was made available in 2000. This generation was phased out in 2001 to make way for the new GMT360 Bravada.

Engines
    * 1996-2001 - 4.3 L Vortec 4300 V6, CSFI, 190 hp (142 kW)

Fuel Economy
The second generation Bravada EPA city/highway averaged 16/21 mpg.

2002
The 2002 Bravada was the first GMT360 truck. This generation Bravada holds the distinction of the last new Oldsmobile model. Like the Chevrolet TrailBlazer and GMC Envoy, it used the new 270 hp (201 kW) Atlas I6 engine. Rear-wheel drive was available for the first time as well, making this the first rear wheel drive Oldsmobile since the 1992 Custom Cruiser. The Bravada entered the Canadian market that time. Production of the Bravada ended with the demise of the Oldsmobile marque in 2004; the last Bravada rolled off the assembly line in January of that year.

The Bravada bodyshell is still in production as the Buick Rainier.

Engines
    * 2002-2004 LL8 4.2 L (256 in³) I6, 270 hp (201 kW)

Fuel Economy
The third generation Bravada EPA city/highway averaged 15/21 mpg.

Oldsmobile Alero OSV, 2000

 

 

Oldsmobile Alero OSV, 2000

The Oldsmobile Alero was introduced in spring 1998 as a 1999 model to replace the Achieva and Cutlass. The Alero went into production on April 6, 1998. All Aleros were built in Lansing, Michigan. The Alero was Oldsmobile's last compact car as well as the last vehicle sold under the brand. Production ended on April 29, 2004.

History
The design of the Alero was originally previewed in 1997 with the Alero Alpha concept car, a futuristic V6-powered sport coupe that featured many design elements seen in the production Alero as well as some that were never meant for production.

The Alero was sold either as a 4-door sedan or as a 2-door coupé. It shared its chassis and many parts, including engines, with the Pontiac Grand Am. It was part of the GM N platform.

In 2003, the Alero's daytime running lights were changed from high-beam to low-beam.

The Alero was also sold in select European countries as the Chevrolet Alero, although only available as a sedan. The car still featured its Oldsmobile badges even though sold under the Chevrolet brand, since most European consumers would not recognize what the badge stood for. Chevrolet badges were added to the grille and rear fascia during the 2000 model year. The Toronado was sold similarly.

Alero production ended with a special Final 500 Edition. These last 500 Aleros featured custom graphics inspired by vintage Oldsmobile logos, dark cherry metallic paint, and a plate featuring the car's number out of 500.

The final Alero Final 500 Edition (#500 of 500) also happened to be the final Oldsmobile ever built, and was signed under its hood by the employees of the General Motors Lansing plant and then given to the R.E. Olds Transportation Museum.

A preview of the planned replacement for the Alero was seen in 2001 with the unveiling of the "O4" concept, designed by Bertone. The car was an open top 4-seater with European styling but some Oldsmobile traits, and powered by the latest Ecotec I4 engine. The name had multiple meanings, including "Oldsmobile 4-Seater" as well as implying the year 2004 as a planned date for production.

Unfortunately, the O4 concept was unveiled a few weeks after General Motors announced that they would be phasing out the Oldsmobile brand, meaning that production possibilities of the O4 would never see reality. Because of this, a second generation Alero was never built and the car was phased out in 2004.

Engines

•     * 1999–2004 LA1 3.4 L (207 in³) V6 – 170 hp (Optional on GL, Standard on GLS)
•     * 1999–2001 LD9 2.4 L (146 in³) I4 – 155 hp (Standard on GX & GL)
•     * 2002–2004 Ecotec 2.2 L (134 in³) I4 – 140 hp (Standard on GX & GL)

Variant prototypes
General Motors commissioned the construction of Alero prototypes either for testing or to gather public opinion on possible future plans for the Alero. The variants:

• Alero OSV - "Oldsmobile Speciality Vehicle", an experiment in an aftermarket parts brand for Oldsmobile. Featured a body kit, supercharged I4, custom interior, and special cherry red paint.
• Alero OSV II - Another experimental vehicle, this time featuring an LX5 DOHC 3.5L V6 (used in the Oldsmobile Intrigue and Aurora and featured custom dark green paint.
• Alero 442 - A set of show cars based on the Alero coupe fitted with a body kit similar in design to the Oldsmobile 442. Each Alero 442 show car had a unique color, including white with gold stripes and white with pink stripes.
• Alero California - A custom built version of the Alero coupe featuring racing parts including a large rear wing, racing seats, sport tires, and custom graphics painted in brown and yellow.
• Alero Convertible - An experiment in the possibility of creating an Alero with a convertible soft top to help broaden the appeal of the car to young buyers. The Oldsmobile O4 concept also hinted that the next generation Alero could have had a convertible model.
• Alero Pace Car - Built by General Motors as part of their fleet of Oldsmobile safety cars for the Indy Racing League, featuring custom yellow and white checkered flag graphics.

Hummer H2 SUV Concept, 2002

 Hummer H2 SUV Concept, 2002

The H2 is the second vehicle sold under the Hummer marque of General Motors. It is a large SUV (though smaller than the Hummer H1) with room for five passengers and substantial off-road ability. The rearmost part of the H2 SUV was modified to a pickup truck bed for the 2004 H2 SUT ("Sport Utility Truck").

Overview
The H2 is built under contract by AM General at a specially constructed plant in Mishawaka, Indiana, USA. Although it shares GM's GMT820 truck platform with the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon, those vehicles differ in many ways and are constructed in three other GM plants. The H2's final frame assembly is made up of 3 sections: The front uses a modified GM 2500-Series utility frame, the mid-section is all new and is completely boxed, and the rear section uses a modifed GM 1500-Series frame which is upgraded for the 8000 pound (3629 kg) gross vehicle weight.

H2 sales were initially strong, but fell to 28,898 for 2004 and 23,213 for 2005.
The H2 was nominated for the North American Truck of the Year award for 2003.

Engine
2003–2005 6000 6.0 L (366 in³) V8

Capabilities
With its high ground clearance, large tires, protective underbody plates, and low gearing, the H2 is capable of climbing over a 20-inch-high (0.4 m) step-up wall. A massive truck frame and wide track offer stability against overturning compared to some of the more common light truck SUVs, although objective tests have not been performed by the government or other outside parties due to its specialised vehicle class.

Fuel economy
For typical travel on improved roads, users report fuel economy of between 10 and 14 miles per gallon, which converts to between 14 and 17 L/100 km. Worst case urban driving is said to be in the range of 8 to 14 U.S. mpg (21 to 25 L/100 km). Although General Motors does not provide official H2 fuel economy ratings, most reviews have observed high single to low double-digit mileage, similar to the numbers above.

It should be noted that other large vehicles also have poor fuel economy especially with optional larger engines including the Dodge Ram 1500 series pickup trucks equipped with either the 8.3L V10 (MSRP US$48,500) or the 4.7L V8 Flexible Fuel engine running E85 fuel (MSRP US$31,300). Both of these engines are rated at 9 U.S. mpg city and 11 U.S. mpg highway by the E.P.A. as one example.

Tax benefits
Under the United States income tax code, the cost of vehicles over 6,000 pounds (2722 kg) can be deducted from income. This deduction was enacted decades ago to assist self-employed people in purchasing a vehicle for business use. The weight minimum was intended to limit the deduction to commercial-type trucks. For many years, the deduction remained below the average cost of a new vehicle, since large trucks were relatively inexpensive. Since it is a reduction in taxable income, the actual value of this deduction averages 30% of the price of the vehicle in question.

The increasing popularity of these vehicles in the last decade, however, pushed their average price to nearly double the average passenger car cost. In response, the 2002 Tax Act increased this "Section 179 depreciation deduction" to US$75,000, and it rose again to US$102,000 for the 2004 tax year. This is more than three times the current average cost of a passenger car in the United States and covers a large number of luxury models, including the Hummer H2. In late 2004, the deduction was again reduced to US$25,000.

Criticism
The Hummer H2 is one of the most severely criticized civilian vehicles on the market today. Critics have expressed concern at the fuel economy which they cite as being among the most inefficient of vehicles. The Environmental Protection Agency does not test them for fuel economy because of their weight, they are thus categorised as light trucks and thus are not bound to fuel economy standards.

The Hummer H2 is criticised for contributing towards petroleum comsumption in the United States. In addition, they are criticized for obstructing the views of drivers behind them with their large vehicles. Criticism is also leveled at the H2 by safety advocates who have expressed concern that their size and height make them far deadlier to smaller vehicles as well as bicyclists, and pedestrians since the front of the Hummer H2 will likely strike the head and/or chest where injuries are far more life-threatening instead of the knees where regular cars are most likely to impact a pedestrian.

Hummer H1 Alpha Concept, 2001

 Hummer H1 Alpha Concept, 2001

The Hummer H1 is a civilian vehicle based on the High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV), popularly known as the Humvee, which was created by AM General.

History
Originally released in the civilian market in 1992, the Hummer H1 owes its birth to the popularity of photos from Operation Desert Storm and the enthusiastic campaign from actor Arnold Schwarzenegger, who personally owns several variants of Hummer vehicles. GM announced that 2006 would be the last model year for the Hummer H1 with production winding down in June 2006, due to a new emission laws for Diesel engine vehicles which take effect in 2007. No version of the Hummer H1 ever produced would meet these new standards. AM General currently has orders for an excess of 50,000 new HMMWVs to be produced between 2006-2009 for the United States Military. AM General also will continue to produce the H1, just not the Alpha. These vehicles will be sold through Fleet sales. The next H1 will most-likely bear a refined version of the prior 6.5L Turbo Diesel engine, but that has not been confirmed. Selling the H1's through fleet sales will allow the AM General to not be subjected to the new emission rules and regulations. AM General has sufficient fleet orders to produce 600-800 units per year right now.

The Specifications
The Hummer H1 has three common variants: a convertible-like soft top, a four-door hard top pickup truck and a Wagon body version. Other less known variants include a two-door pickup truck and a four-door slantback. At this time, the convertible/soft top and the station wagon versions are the only ones available in the mass market. The two door and four door pickup versions are only available in fleet livery.

5 engine types and three automatic transmission types can be found in Hummer H1s. The common engine/transmission combinations are:

•  6.2 L Detroit Diesel V8/GM TH400/3L80 3-speed
•  6.5 L Detroit Diesel V8/GM 4L80-E 4-speed
•  5.7 L Vortec 5700 gasoline V8 TBI/GM 4L80-E 4-speed
•  6.5 L turbo Detroit Diesel V8/GM 4L80-E 4-speed
•  6.6 L Duramax LLY turbo Diesel/Allison 1000 5-speed (model year 2006)

The Hummer H1 shares some common driveline parts with its HMMWV brethren. Items like brakes, differentials, frame and major body panels (hood, tailgate and quarter panels) are identical between the HMMWV and the Hummer H1. All Hummer H1s and HMMWVs come off the same first stage assembly line, and then are separated midway to either become a military HMMWV or a civilian H1.

Hummer H1s are unique in the way they handle off road. They are inherently very stable, thanks to their wide stance. They also can ford 30 inches (76 cm) of water, climb a 22-inch (56 cm) step, have a stock ground clearance of 16 inches (41 cm) (thanks to its design of tucking driveline components inside a channel, which subsequently intrudes into the cabin space of the vehicle), have approach/departure angles of 72/37.5 degrees and most H1s are equipped with Central Tire Inflation System (CTIS), which enables the driver to increase or decrease the tire air pressure at will.

The Hummer H1s have many unusual features. They use inboard brakes. They have geared hubs, allowing the drivetrain's half shafts to be up high for greater clearance. The radiator is up high, sloping back over the engine. Rather than using simple runflat tires, aluminum or rubber inserts are an optional feature for runflat ability. A central tire inflation system is available as an option. Chemical warfare resistant paint is available only on the military version.

Price is projected to be around US$129,399 for the open-top, and US$140,796 for the wagon.