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Got this photo from my uncle on the new car my aunt just bought...really hoping they drive it when they come up to visit next month

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This morning while on my way to buy some extra bottles of alcohol for our guests today, I spotted a new S90 in the parking lot. Very stunning design. I'm not sure how timeless it'll be in 5-6 years, but it really stood out in the lot full of pricey cars.

Once the platform bugs get stamped out in the next couple of iterations, plus an inline-six engine option, I feel Volvo will gain another resurgence in the US. The grille of the car is somewhat menacing. Similar to the AMG GT and the newer Mazdas. Very vertical, very in your face surrounded by subtle design, curves and creases.

I hope they revive the C30. It was a very unique looking car and it competed with the A3 hatch at the time. C30 with new design language would appeal to younger people who otherwise stick with Honda, Volkswagen or a myriad of other hatchback producing marques.

I know a _ton_ of folks on both coasts with Teslas, their 2nd and 3rd cars are gas guzzling SUVs, 9-12MPG sports cars (one guy's other ride is an F-GT, TT conversion, 7-8MPG, no cats), they own boats, they're not particularly environmentally conscious (outside of one friend who's in the solar industry and has one almost for marketing ...) - I think the whole positioning of the owner as some kind of green warrior is bogus, ni may cases, it's more of a I've-got-the-latest-toy :)
[doublepost=1501944369][/doublepost]Picked up a new 50mm prime (F1.8), beautiful DOF for car photogs, will be shooting some new ones when the weather clears up (... if ever ...)

In other words, the typical Tesla buyer is going to be affluent. Regardless of battery prices, Tesla isn't going to make the next econo-Civic. A $35K Model 3 gets you a bone stock car.

Tech journalism in particular. Tech journalism gets in this rut where the "next big thing" is that and the rest is screwed. Call it the "iPhone effect"

Oh, yeah, makes sense. Tech journalism. Few people should call themselves journalists.

You don't need big apertures for shallow DOF :)

135mm, f/27ish

View attachment 711668

Gosh, what a pretty gal. What I'd do to have your patience, Ben. She's a beaut. Knowing you, albeit I don't know you at all, and you being someone who enjoys finer things, I'm guessing medium format?
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I think for a lot of owners Teslas are a eco-conscious status symbol.
I don't own a Tesla, but that's me in a nutshell. I see myself as eco-aware. We recycle, we're smart about utilities and I've invested in cutting edge stuff to curb our energy usage. Still doesn't stop me from driving a gas guzzler, or the overpowered boat my wife has. If I'm feeling super earthy, I'll drive the Lexus. You don't have to become an earth loving hippy, but putting some conscious effort into renewables and using energy wisely goes a long way in the long run.

You bring up a very good argument on chargers. It's something not a lot of Pro-EV people have thought out thoroughly.
 
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Got this photo from my uncle on the new car my aunt just bought...really hoping they drive it when they come up to visit next month

Fun! Is that a 944 or 924 in the background? Usually I can tell from the fenders, it _looks_ like from this angle it's a 924.
 
Fun! Is that a 944 or 924 in the background? Usually I can tell from the fenders, it _looks_ like from this angle it's a 924.

It's a 944-my dad bought a 924, and Uncle Joe went the smart route and bought a 944 :) . The last I heard, it had sat for ~2 years in between their move from NJ to NC and wasn't running well. Since it's in their front driveway, I'm guessing it is.
 
It's a 944-my dad bought a 924, and Uncle Joe went the smart route and bought a 944 :) . The last I heard, it had sat for ~2 years in between their move from NJ to NC and wasn't running well. Since it's in their front driveway, I'm guessing it is.

I shopped 944s for a bit, those early 2.5L turbo models were +light+. I wound up having a couple of 944 knockoffs (RX7s :D )
 
Gosh, what a pretty gal. What I'd do to have your patience, Ben. She's a beaut. Knowing you, albeit I don't know you at all, and you being someone who enjoys finer things, I'm guessing medium format?

Thanks.

This was actually shot with a 4x5 Speed Graphic. The lens-as I mentioned-is a 135mm Wollestock Raptar(Tessar formula). It's coated, so I'm guessing it's late '40s or early '50s-it's the lens that was on the camera when I bought it.

The next time I mix up some E6 chemistry, I do have a few photos of the car taken on my Mamiya RB67. Large format pushed me over the edge on doing E6 at home, although I still use a local commercial lab for 35mm(my local lab can't do sheet film). I can go either way on medium format, but usually end up doing it myself since I don't usually have enough large format to make it worth my while.

I shoot medium format a lot, though. I used Rolleiflexes for years and still have a lot of attachment to them, although about two years ago I finally made the SLR plunge. One thing leads to another, and I now have three separate systems :) . The Bronica SQ is still my go to, but I also picked up a complete Bronica S2A system that I can do a lot with that the SQ can't do(even though the S2a is cantankerous). I'd use the RB67 all the time if it weren't so dang heavy.
 
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The actual review coming out next weekend will be more comprehensive.
Is the Abernath 124 the new spider? I drove the new Fiat Spider a couple of months ago and was dissapointed as compared to my 82 Spider 2000. It felt heavier to the touch on steering, of course there is more to the car than what was in my 82.
 
Ever since we placed the order 3 months ago for my wife's 2018 Subaru Crosstrek, I've been looking at the 2018 WRX/STi to eventually replace my 2006 330i. Now after taking delivery of the car, I've started looking more intently.

However, after doing some deeper analysis I may be more inclined to consider a Mk7 VW Golf R. It seems like a more refined German hot hatch. The WRX has unfortunately always screamed boy racer to me whereas the Golf R would blend in more (thinking sleeper).

Ever since visiting the UK this year, I've been lusting for a hot hatch after seeing the endless BMW 1-series, Mercedes, and Audi hatches. I think the Golf R might do the trick! Shame we aren't getting the RS3 hatch in the states.
 
Ever since we placed the order 3 months ago for my wife's 2018 Subaru Crosstrek, I've been looking at the 2018 WRX/STi to eventually replace my 2006 330i. Now after taking delivery of the car, I've started looking more intently.

However, after doing some deeper analysis I may be more inclined to consider a Mk7 VW Golf R. It seems like a more refined German hot hatch. The WRX has unfortunately always screamed boy racer to me whereas the Golf R would blend in more (thinking sleeper).

Ever since visiting the UK this year, I've been lusting for a hot hatch after seeing the endless BMW 1-series, Mercedes, and Audi hatches. I think the Golf R might do the trick! Shame we aren't getting the RS3 hatch in the states.
The STi is long in the tooth. In fact, the regular WRX has a more recent engine than the STi. Good choice with the Golf R.
 
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Golf R is a solid choice for a hot hatch. Very nice premium hatch. I believe the 2019 MK8 is due for upgrades across the Golf range. If you can hold off until then...
 
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Had a couple of guys flipping out at my car at the Toyota dealership, one guy couldn't believe how it sounded ("I've never heard a GT sound like that"). This Solo exhaust creates a really unique sound, it's got some muscle car growl mixed with a sort of exotic burble - of course, I gave it a little rev when parking (if for other reason, that makes a manual worth it) :D

Getting a part, wife loves the T4R, but I'm ready to part with it soon (the issues are minor, and far apart, but I kind of want _zero_ hassle).

FWIW, I did a build on a MDX - silver with black wheels, the super AWD Hybrid setup with full Tech package - actually pretty reasonable for the level of content, looks, assumed reliability, build, etc.
 
Is the Abernath 124 the new spider? I drove the new Fiat Spider a couple of months ago and was dissapointed as compared to my 82 Spider 2000. It felt heavier to the touch on steering, of course there is more to the car than what was in my 82.
It's Abarth, it is actually a Fiat 124 Spider then enhanced by Abarth (wich is the "racing" mods done by Fiat).

hqdefault.jpg


It is nothing more nothing less a MX5 lookalike... and most of it actually comes from Mazda.

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slide_0027.jpg


slide_0025.jpg

slide_0026.jpg


Inside they are almost identical, even the infotaiment is made by Mazda.
 
It's Abarth, it is actually a Fiat 124 Spider then enhanced by Abarth (wich is the "racing" mods done by Fiat).

hqdefault.jpg


It is nothing more nothing less a MX5 lookalike... and most of it actually comes from Mazda.

slide_0026-2.jpg

slide_0027.jpg


slide_0025.jpg

slide_0026.jpg


Inside they are almost identical, even the infotaiment is made by Mazda.

Which makes me feel like if I ever bought one, it would be a Mazda. For a company with Italian car roots, this is an epic fail imo. :(
 
Golf R is a solid choice for a hot hatch. Very nice premium hatch. I believe the 2019 MK8 is due for upgrades across the Golf range. If you can hold off until then...
Yeah, definitely not looking to jump for probably a year (or less). I've seen the new digital gauge cluster and bigger infotainment screen in the 2018 on youtube, which looks to be a nice upgrade!

Trying to study the depreciation of Volkswagens, as I'd be open to a used example.

Other consideration is 6MT versus dual clutch. My last 3 BMWs have been manual, but I've been saying my next car would be a dual clutch.

Also wondering if the R is worth the upgrade over the GTI. This video may help.
 
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Just saw this on another forum. The General really needs to work on their QC. I hope our Equinox isn't this bad!

f4ff0006f037c083f30d84bc63af2b07.jpg
 
It's Abarth, it is actually a Fiat 124 Spider then enhanced by Abarth (wich is the "racing" mods done by Fiat).

hqdefault.jpg


It is nothing more nothing less a MX5 lookalike... and most of it actually comes from Mazda.

slide_0026-2.jpg

slide_0027.jpg


slide_0025.jpg

slide_0026.jpg


Inside they are almost identical, even the infotaiment is made by Mazda.

If one wants one of these get the Mazda version, or just find a cherry s2000 and be real happy, invest the 10k you save, and then when done with it sell if for what you paid for it.
 
I'm considering upgrading from my 2012 Camry V6 (about 40k miles, still runs great, just bored with it and want something nicer/newer).

Which of these would YOU recommend?

2014 Lexus IS350 F-Sport

https://www.autotrader.com/cars-for...maxPrice=30000&firstRecord=0&searchRadius=100

2014 Audi A4 2.0T Premium Plus Quattro

https://www.autotrader.com/cars-for...searchRadius=100&makeCode1=AUDI&modelCode1=A4


The Audi is cheaper, and I think it might be more fun to drive with the AWD and smaller body. The Lexus is more powerful and I prefer the body styling a little more over the Audi. Interior design, gauge cluster design, and entertainment/connectivity is important to me as well. I haven't gotten to see either vehicle in person yet, but I think the Lexus might have the upper hand in regards to interior quality/tech?

Does anyone here own either of these vehicles? Any insight to offer on either one?
 
I'm considering upgrading from my 2012 Camry V6 (about 40k miles, still runs great, just bored with it and want something nicer/newer).

Which of these would YOU recommend?

2014 Lexus IS350 F-Sport

https://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale/vehicledetails.xhtml?zip=85202&startYear=2014&numRecords=25&listingId=459612692&vehicleStyleCodes=[]&endYear=2018&modelCode1=IS350&referrer=/cars-for-sale/searchresults.xhtml?zip=85202&startYear=2014&maxMileage=45000&sortBy=derivedpriceDESC&maxPrice=30000&incremental=all&firstRecord=0&endYear=2018&modelCodeList=IS350&makeCodeList=LEXUS&searchRadius=100&sellerTypes=[]&listingTypes=[]&makeCode1=LEXUS&maxPrice=30000&firstRecord=0&searchRadius=100

2014 Audi A4 2.0T Premium Plus Quattro

https://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale/vehicledetails.xhtml?listingId=463398067&zip=85202&referrer=/cars-for-sale/searchresults.xhtml?zip=85202&startYear=2014&maxMileage=45000&sortBy=derivedpriceDESC&maxPrice=30000&incremental=all&firstRecord=0&endYear=2018&modelCodeList=A3%2CA4%2CA6%2CA8%2CAUDS3%2CS4%2CS5%2CS6%2CS7%2CS8&makeCodeList=AUDI&searchRadius=100&startYear=2014&numRecords=25&maxPrice=30000&firstRecord=0&endYear=2018&modelCodeList=A3,A4,A6,A8,AUDS3,S4,S5,S6,S7,S8&makeCodeList=AUDI&searchRadius=100&makeCode1=AUDI&modelCode1=A4


The Audi is cheaper, and I think it might be more fun to drive with the AWD and smaller body. The Lexus is more powerful and I prefer the body styling a little more over the Audi. Interior design, gauge cluster design, and entertainment/connectivity is important to me as well. I haven't gotten to see either vehicle in person yet, but I think the Lexus might have the upper hand in regards to interior quality/tech?

Does anyone here own either of these vehicles? Any insight to offer on either one?
No insight here but I think that grill on the Lexus is ugly. I'd take the Audi any day.
 
Also wondering if the R is worth the upgrade over the GTI. This video may help.
The R brings features that the GTI can't muster on its own. Is it worth the premium over the GTI? That's up to you to decide. If I were in the market for a hot hatch, the R would get my vote of confidence. The DSG/Dual Clutch in the R is very good, but there is a pricey fluid swap within the first 40K miles at around $800, according to what I read a while back. I believe PDK, DCT and Merc's MCT's all require a swap at some early period once the tranny's set in. From there on out, the fluid is considered "lifetime."

Which is anywhere from 130-180K miles.
 
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FWIW, I did a build on a MDX - silver with black wheels, the super AWD Hybrid setup with full Tech package - actually pretty reasonable for the level of content, looks, assumed reliability, build, etc.

The MDX is a solid family hauler. The hybrid system is surprisingly cheap if you were planning on getting the other options. Acuras reliability seems to have fallen from above average to middle of the road though.

I'm not a big fan of the new T4R's, they're too aggressive. It would be nice if the GX didn't have that super ugly grill and wasn't two decades behind in tech.
 
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Just saw this on another forum. The General really needs to work on their QC. I hope our Equinox isn't this bad!

f4ff0006f037c083f30d84bc63af2b07.jpg

What am I supposed to be looking at other than an ugly truck?
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I'm not a big fan of the new T4R's, they're too aggressive. It would be nice if the GX didn't have that super ugly grill and wasn't two decades behind in tech.
The engines are woefully out of date, too. Not up to today's standards, but very reliable.
 
I'm considering upgrading from my 2012 Camry V6 (about 40k miles, still runs great, just bored with it and want something nicer/newer).

Which of these would YOU recommend?

2014 Lexus IS350 F-Sport

https://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale/vehicledetails.xhtml?zip=85202&startYear=2014&numRecords=25&listingId=459612692&vehicleStyleCodes=[]&endYear=2018&modelCode1=IS350&referrer=/cars-for-sale/searchresults.xhtml?zip=85202&startYear=2014&maxMileage=45000&sortBy=derivedpriceDESC&maxPrice=30000&incremental=all&firstRecord=0&endYear=2018&modelCodeList=IS350&makeCodeList=LEXUS&searchRadius=100&sellerTypes=[]&listingTypes=[]&makeCode1=LEXUS&maxPrice=30000&firstRecord=0&searchRadius=100

2014 Audi A4 2.0T Premium Plus Quattro

https://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale/vehicledetails.xhtml?listingId=463398067&zip=85202&referrer=/cars-for-sale/searchresults.xhtml?zip=85202&startYear=2014&maxMileage=45000&sortBy=derivedpriceDESC&maxPrice=30000&incremental=all&firstRecord=0&endYear=2018&modelCodeList=A3%2CA4%2CA6%2CA8%2CAUDS3%2CS4%2CS5%2CS6%2CS7%2CS8&makeCodeList=AUDI&searchRadius=100&startYear=2014&numRecords=25&maxPrice=30000&firstRecord=0&endYear=2018&modelCodeList=A3,A4,A6,A8,AUDS3,S4,S5,S6,S7,S8&makeCodeList=AUDI&searchRadius=100&makeCode1=AUDI&modelCode1=A4


The Audi is cheaper, and I think it might be more fun to drive with the AWD and smaller body. The Lexus is more powerful and I prefer the body styling a little more over the Audi. Interior design, gauge cluster design, and entertainment/connectivity is important to me as well. I haven't gotten to see either vehicle in person yet, but I think the Lexus might have the upper hand in regards to interior quality/tech?

Does anyone here own either of these vehicles? Any insight to offer on either one?
Couple of things to consider
  • The IS350 is probably a little faster
  • The IS350 is likely a bit more reliable (Audis are no longer reliability disasters, but no one comes close to Lexus)
  • The A4 is smaller and probably a bit more fun
  • The interior of the A4 is probably better
If it were me, the A4 would be the choice if you bought the Quattro manual. The auto on the B8 is a CVT, which doesn't jive with me personally. If the choice is between autos, go lexus. If you're willing to go A4 manual, go with that.
 
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The 3IS handling is rather good, even if it's very numb. I wish I could say the same about our 2IS. I fall asleep driving the damn thing.
 
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