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2005
Scion TC
The
Scion TC is not a flashy sportscar with gobs of power or exotic
name; however, it manages
to offer a ton of standard features and a pleasant driving experience
for under $20,000 USD. Scion is a branch of the Toyota brand and
was created to capture the youth of North America with innovative
and exciting automobiles that most teenagers can afford.
The TC is a smooth and relatively exciting machine thanks in large
part to the 2.4 litre inline-4 cylinder engine, which
pumps out 160 horses. This powerplant, taken from the Camry is
whisper quiet and very responsive. Don't let the moderate numbers
fool you - the TC is a small 2-door coupe and moves swiftly with
either the 5-speed manual or automatic transmission.
One of most creative features about Scion is that there are dozens
of aftermarket parts available from the dealer that you can have
installed on your ride. Imagine having a TRD supercharger installed
in your TC and gaining 75 horsepower in a way which wont void
your warranty. Larger rims, an upgraded stereo system, a body
kit and many performance modifications can be made to your TC
at the local Scion dealership.
Scion also loads its cars up with features - ABS, air conditioning
and 17 inch aluminum racing wheels all come standard on the affordable
TC. Everything about the TC - its straight line performance, to
handling and braking, to comfort and safety - are all above average
and make it perfect for trendy teenagers.
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2005 Porsche 911 Carrera/Carrera S
Porsche
has once again raised the bar in the sportscar segment with
the new 997 series of coupes. Only slight exterior changes have
been made, but with a little research it is obvious that the
2005 Carrera (and Carrera S) are a tremendous improvement on
the old 996 models, which says a lot about the new 997 lineup.
The impressive 3.8 litre flat-6 engine produces 325 horsepower
in the Carrera and 355 in the S version. Both models are very
quick in a sprint with the Carrera S using the slight power
advantage to post a very athletic time of 4.7 seconds from 0-60
mph. The manual gearbox is buttery smooth and the suspension
creates a perfect balance between supercar handling and the
ride quality of a limousine.
Porsche made subtle enhancements to the design of the front
headlights, as well as the front fascia. New aluminium wheels
were also added to give the Carrera a more sporty appearance.
The interior is classy and elegent with supple leather enveloping
just about every surface.
Although the Porsche Carrera has always been an exceptional
automobile, the 2005 version is even more refined and exciting
than would be expected from this legendary German sportscar
manufacturer. With a base price of $69,300 for the Carrera and
$79,100 for the S version, the 997 Porsche series blows all
of its competitors out of the water when it comes to quality,
performance and luxury.
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