Changes since 1980s

I notice one omission from the article: since the 1980s car design, at least in Europe, has been driven more by engineering than by marketing / brandng considerations. The first signs of this were the Ford Sierra and Audi 100, both designed to minimise drag. Soon after this computer aided design started enabling designers to apply finite element stress analysis and thus reduce both weight and manufacturing cost without sacrificing strength in critical areas. As a result most cars below the luxury band now look much more similar than they did before the early 1980s. However these changes have also caused some criticisms: susceptibility to cross-winds (mainly overcome); difficulty for drivers in judging the length of their cars becuase of the steeply sloping bonnets and high boot lines.
It would also be worth mentioning changes in the names and numbers of manufacturers: Toyota, Nissan (then Datsun) and Honda became noticeable in the 1970s; Daewoo, Kia and Proton (possibly others) in the 1990s; Skoda became a real presence in Europe after VW took it over; Ford took over Volvo's car operation & Jaguar; etc. -- Philcha (talk) 14:44, 6 October 2008 (UTC)

Van, camper, RV, Minibus etc.

In some countries, the term "van" can refer to a small panel van based on a passenger car design (often the estate model / station wagon); it also refers to light trucks, which themselves are sometimes based on SUVs or MPVs. (But note that those retaining seats and windows, while being larger and more utilitarian than MPVs, may be called "minibuses".) The term is also used in the term "camper van" (or just "camper") — equivalent to a North American recreational vehicle (RV).
In the United States, the term "van" refers to vehicles that, like European minibuses, are even larger than large MPVs and are rarely seen being driven for domestic purposes — except for "conversion vans". These possess extremely large interior space and are often more intended for hauling cargo than people. Most vans use body-on-frame construction and are thus suitable for extensive modification and coachwork, known as conversion. Conversion vans are often quite luxurious, boasting comfortable seats, soft rides, built-in support for electronics such as television sets, and other amenities. The more elaborate conversion vans straddle the line between cars and recreational vehicles.
Examples of North American "vans":
Dodge Ram Van
Ford E-Series
GMC Savana
Examples of European "vans":
Ford Transit
Volkswagen Transporter
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

Car show class definitions

A different classification system is used for purposes of differentiating vehicles in most car shows. While there is little doubt about the definition of classes that are self-described such as "Mustang" or "Firebird", there is often confusion about the definition of classes that are not as readily understood. The following classes are often used in car shows across America - the definitions are determined either by state regulations, the National Street Rod Association, or have been gathered from other reliable sources:
Street Rod —A motor vehicle, or a reproduction thereof, with a model year of 1948 or older which has been materially altered or modified by the removal, addition or substitution of essential parts and with a gross weight or registered gross weight of not more than 9,000 pounds.
Classic car —A motor vehicle, but not a reproduction thereof, at least 30 years old, not materially altered or modified by the removal, addition or substitution of essential parts except that such parts represent the original
Hot Rod - Any car rebuilt or modified for higher speed, faster acceleration, or a sportier look. Many automobiles may be called hot rods, including some used in drag racing. They may be composed of used or newly fabricated parts. Can be a kit car.
Custom car - a factory-built vehicle that has been modified in either to improve its performance, often by altering or replacing the engine and transmission, or it may be a personal design by the builder, making the car look unique and unlike any car that might have been factory built. Though distinct from hot rods there is debate among customizers and rodders as to where the line should be drawn. A Custom Car cannot be a kit car, as a kit car is not a factory-built vehicle that has been modified from the original configuration.
Antique car — A motor vehicle, but not a reproduction thereof, at least 25 years old, which has been maintained in or restored to a condition which is substantially in conformity with manufacturer specifications and appearance.
Special Interest - a vehicle uniquely distinguishable from the usual, and/or designed for a particular purpose (i.e. fire truck, MASH jeep, tank, surf wagon, bus, race cars etc.) which would peak the interest of the public at large because of its uniqueness or specialty function.
Kit car - any vehicle that is created primarily from kit or prefabricated parts, and is a reproduction or replica. An original factory-built vehicle that utilizes prefabricated fiberglass body units to replace worn/damaged original parts is not a kit car.
Brass Era car - beginning with the first horseless carriages, named for the brass fittings used for such things as lights and radiators. Starting with the first commercial automobiles of the 1890s to about 1918-19. Includes most Edwardian cars
Veteran car - any motor vehicle built prior to 1905
Edwardian car - any vehicle built from 1905 - 1918. Includes all brass era cars
Vintage car - commonly defined as a car built between 1919 and 1930. The Classic Car Club of America prefers 1925 since it is the pre-classic car period.
Pre-war car - beginning with the Great Depression in 1930 and ending after WWII, usually placed at 1948

How to Improve a Vehicle's Fuel Efficiency Without Causing Damage

There are many fuel saving devices available nowadays, and some of them not only don't work, but can also cause damage to your car.The Environmental Protection Agency did tests on over 100 fuel saving devices and found that most did not improve efficiency at all and the rest didn't improve it by that much.Fuel efficiency products come under a few different categories. Some of these categories are: vapour bleed devices, fuel line devices, mixture enhancers, ignition devices, engine modification devices, fuel and oil additives and driving habit modifiers.The EPA's test were designed to evaluate whether the devices had any significant impact on a vehicle fuel economy. What they could not test for was whether the devices would have any adverse effects on a cars performance over time.An example of how one of these devices can do harm is in the case of the air bleed device. It is designed to add large amounts of air to the engine via the carburettor. Now this could likely cause misfireing which can damage the engine, especially on vehicles manufactured from 1974 -82, because the carburettors are factory set for a maximum air to fuel mix. And this device is unlikely to even work on post 1982 vehicles due to their carburettor having an automatic air fuel adjustment which effectively make the device usless.There are too many factors that affect fuel consumption such as driver's habits, condition of the vehicle. Because of this it is hard to believe the claims many of these product manufacturers make.In one testimonial, a consumer gave high praise to a fuel saving device. What they failed to mention was that the car had also had a service at the time the device was put in.There are claims in some advertisments that a product is endorsed or approved by a government agency. This is a falacy. Government agencies will never endorse a product of this type. It may have been tested by the EPA and if so, you will be able to request a copy of the test results.You may have already bought one of these devices. If you are not happy then you are well within your right to ask for a refund. Any honest company will offer a money back guarantee. If they do not, you can file a complaint with the state consumer protection agency.Regular maintenance and servicing is one of the best way to ensure that your vehicle is running at it's maximum fuel efficeincy. You can find out service intervals by looking in the vehicle manual.Three simple steps that will help improve gas mileage in all vehicles:Get your engine tuned properly.Checking tire pressure.Take out any unnecessary objects from your trunk to rid your vehicle of excess weight.

Auto Clubs: Never Worry About a Dead Battery Again

An auto club is a great organization to be involved in for a number of reasons. First of all, members pay dues to the club and the club offers a variety of benefits to its members in return. This can be anything from mapping out the best routes for a road trip to roadside assistance. There are even auto clubs that are dedicated to specific types of vehicles. Some consist of owners of antique cars, sports cars, pickup trucks, or cars by a particular manufacturer. Other auto clubs will service any automobile owner who wishes to pay dues as a member.There are many things that auto clubs offer their members. Some may find that when their children become of age to learn to drive, the auto club will give them the opportunity to take driving lessons. For mom and dad, there are such services as breakdown service and even legal advice. It is definitely a handy thing to have because you never know when you will need it.One of the most common issues, aside from locking the keys in the car, is the issue of the dead battery. This occurs because individuals may forget to turn off interior lights or headlights and the battery will run down. Other times it is because it is simply time for the battery to go or there is another underlying issue that has caused the battery to die.Battery assistWhen the battery in your car dies, it can be a rather surreal experience because you may be in a place that you are not familiar with and you may be out of reach of someone who can come and pick you up. It is rather dangerous to ask strangers if they have jumper cables. Sometimes you can walk into a business and ask them if any of their employees can give you a hand, but there are many times the employees may not have jumper cables or you may not even be in the vicinity of a business. This is where the wireless phone comes in.Since most everyone carries a wireless phone nowadays, it is easy to call your auto club and get some help. In all reality, if the battery dies you have nothing to worry about, so there is no need to panic. There's also no need to ask strangers for assistance when a phone call can solve your issue.When the roadside service arrives, they can give your battery and get you going again. Many times this is all it will take, but it is wise to go straight to the first auto parts store you see or a department store that sells car batteries so that you can have your battery tested and replaced if it must be. Sometimes a dead battery is just a fluke and it will charge right back up. However, it is always good to get it checked and the battery assistance that is provided by your auto club can get you on your way to running like normal in no time.Peace of mindBesides, the auto club has the best interest of its members in mind. If it didn't it couldn't really be classified as an auto club aside from the fact it is made up of a bunch of people who own automobiles. Auto clubs are much more than that, so if you are stalled, they will make sure they get you up and running so that you have nothing to worry about. That makes an auto club something that every automobile owner should be a part of.

Diesel Engines Tips

With the constant soaring of gas prices, many people with cars running on unleaded fuel have looked for alternatives to lowering their gas costs. One of the best and oldest alternatives is the use of cars with diesel engines. With diesel engines, drivers are able to save on gas because of the lower costs of diesel fuel.Those already packed with a diesel engine can thank Rudolf Diesel and his Bavarian parents. The inventor of the diesel engine graduated from Munich Polytechnic and started out as an engineer. On February 27, 1892, he filed for a patent for his internal combustion engine. Germany approved his patent within a year, and the United States did the same for him in 1898.During the 1920s, Robert Bosch pushed the bar higher by coming up with an injection pump for the diesel engine. His innovative design attracted many international executives who wanted a piece of Bosch's invention. The product was a big hit that brought Bosch much fortune.Demand for diesel engines continued to increase during that time. The technology was developed further and was used extensively in other fields. In 1930, one car traveled 1,300 km to complete the first road trip that used a diesel engine. The event showed everyone how efficient the diesel engine was. The following year, diesel engine penetrated the car racing industry. The engine-powered car, Cummins Diesel Special, finished the Indy 500 without ever dropping by its pit stop, the first such instance in racing history.Today, diesel engines continue to be relevant. The engine can be found in all types of vehicles, from trains to ships. The best part about the diesel engine is that the fuel it uses is much cheaper than unleaded. Despite the tremendous amount of technology that pervades the world today, it is ironic that something as old as the diesel engine might just be the best solution against the growing problem created by high fuel costs.

Mercruiser Engines: Lasting the Years

When you do business with a company that has a long history, you can assume that they are doing something right. A company that has come out on top after a world war and the various economic recessions of the past seven decades has to be on top of their game. In the marine engine industry, that company is Mercury Marine, and they have been turning out great engines since 1939 when America was just beginning to come out of the Great Depression and Hitler was running amuck in Europe.The company, having begun in Wisconsin, was originally supposed to help dairy farmers. When Carl Kiekhaufer bought an outboard motor company, he was intending to make magnetic milk separators. However, the three hundred inoperable outboard motors that were thrown in with the deal changed his intentions. His repaired and mail-order marketed engines were so sturdy that they quickly became popular. In 1940, he took orders for 16,000 engines at the New York Boat Show alone. Suddenly, the dairy farmers were on their own!The company, which Mr. Kiekhaufer named Mercury, changed over to making hard-used chain saws for the US government during World War II. In the late 1940s, though, it was right back to boat engines. In the 1950s, they performed an astonishing feat on a lake in Florida, setting an endurance record with two of their Mark 75 engines. Over the course of 68 3/4 days, they ran 50,000 miles nonstop, refueling with the engines still running.In 1961, the first Mercruiser engines were introduced at the Chicago boat show. This is the engine that would come to corner 80% of the pleasure boat market worldwide. Mercury continues to enjoy its excellent reputation, ever improving on their products. In 2007, in fact, the modern Zeus drive system came out. Boasting dual engine pod drive, it offers exceptional helm control and will hold a steady heading even in bad weather.When a company has been around as long as Mercury, they commonly have a reputation for excellence. Withstanding the hurdles of time is no small feat, and they have met every obstacle and thrived.