Bad Things Happen When Non-Car People Write About Cars Without Researching

Volvo Coupe Concept

I just barely ran across this article on the Motley Fool website that talks about three car brands that might not be around by the year 2020. I always click on these sorts of articles because I find them interesting -- I'm a car nerd! I started  to read through the article and it quickly became apparent the guy who wrote it knows nothing, absolutely NOTHING about the automotive industry. I doubt he looked up a damn thing before he started tapping away on his computer to spew out his ill-conceived notions.

Volvo Coupe Concept

So which car companies did he pick? First up was Volvo, because it's a popular one for ignorant morons to pick on. Disclaimer: I have owned two Volvos. I have mixed feelings on the cars, to be honest, but that's another story for another time. So why did this guy pick Volvo for an untimely death? I would bet it has something in part to do with the death of Saab, because they're both Swedish and quirky so of course Volvo is also on its way out, right? Wrong! A few years ago Volvo was bought by Chinese automotive giant Geely, meaning Volvo is flush with cash. The Swedish automaker just finished showing off its concept Coupe that turned a lot of heads worldwide. The new generation of the XC90 comes out next year, which will be the first production vehicle to use the same design language. But yeah, they're on death's doorstep. The only thing the guy could cite was that Volvo has not seen a recent uptick in sales like most automakers. The company is going through a transformation at the moment, so before declaring it dead let Volvo show us what it can do.

Next up is Suzuki. Why is Suzuki almost dead? Oh, because it is pulling out of America, and as we all know some Americans think the world ends at California and New York! This guy's a moron, did no research about Suzuki's sales in Asia, Australia or anywhere else in the world. If he had, he would have not been so fast to declare Suzuki a goner.

Jaguar X-C17 Concept

This third choice really tickles me because it most definitely exposes the guy's ignorance. Of course Jaguar is about to be put down! Why? I don't know, the guy doesn't like them? He doesn't know anyone who owns one or wants one? Since Jaguar and Land Rover were bought by an investment group, both automakers have been doing markedly better. The design and construction quality of their vehicles have improved by leaps and bounds. And now Jaguar is on the cusp of a new vehicle blitz, possibly as much as tripling the number of vehicles it offers. It just showed off a concept SUV and is about to pounce into 3 Series territory with a new compact sedan that looks likely to make waves in the industry. But yeah, guy who needed to make an editorial deadline and so did NO research, Jaguar is as dead as a door nail, because obviously its not innovating in any way.

Maybe I should contact the Motley Fool and ask if it needs a writer who knows something about the automotive industry? Judging from the comments at the end of the article, this guy pissed off quite a few people. I'm not mad at him but instead am just snickering at how lazy of a job he performed.

Jaguar C-X17 Concept

Scottsdale 2012: Gooding & Co. selection

Here are my picks from the 2012. Again Scottsdale fails to disappoint, there are some absolutely fabulous machines consigned to Gooding & Co this year. Of course my number one pick is the 1963 Herbie that I posted about here. Since 2008 Gooding & Co. has secured the top sale of the week every year. This shows the attention to detail that the folks at Gooding go to to get the creme of the crop of collector cars for their Scottsdale auction. Last year, Gooding & Co. had total sales of almost $35,000,000 million dollars. Very impressive.

1953 Buick Roadmaster Estate Wagon. I have a soft spot for station wagons and 50s Buicks so this one really caught my eye. This was the last of the era for real wood station wagons. And with only 679 of these built in 1953, it would be a pretty safe be that there aren't many wagons still around. Gooding & Co. estimates this one at $75,000 to $95,000. There's also something to be said about the stunning black with red vinyl interior and those Kelsey Hayes wire wheels wrapped in white walls. This car just screams classy.

There is a real "cool factor" to this 1916 Ford Model T delivery truck. This one has a fresh restoration with only 25 miles on it. A genuine delivery truck from the period, the body on this T was created by Abresch Auto Body, Ltd. in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. As the restoration was completed, a little flight of fantasy was taken in the form of labeling the truck as a Harley Davidson delivery truck. Who knows, Harley Davidson may have used trucks like this and it certainly fits the theme finished in the early HD colors. And it's nice to see a Model T that isn't all black.

I love the styling of the 1960s super cars. One of my favorites is the Rivolta Iso Grifo. This 1969 7 Litri model was the show car for the 1969 New York Auto show and was one of only 6 imported to the U.S. This car from new carried a 7 liter Chevrolet V8 for power, producing over 400 horse power. Only 66, 7 Litri's were built making them extremely rare. This example was treated to a seven year, no expense spared restoration and has earned Best in Class honors at Concorso Italiano and Avila Beach. This one is American muscle wrapped in a suave Italian body with coachwork by Bertone.

Another stunningly beautiful car is the Jaguar XK 120. I love the side profile of these cars, especially in racing trim with a set of wire wheels. This 1952 XK 120 is a fascinating example of the model as it is almost entirely original and has covered only 15,000 miles since 1952. Even the tires are original. This is a superb preservation car that can be used to show how these cars looked when they were built. And it can also be driven and enjoyed a the same time.

Continuing with un restored cars, here is a 1953 Hudson Hornet sedan. This car has just under 70,000 original miles and is largely un restored. Finished in black with a lovely light blue/gray interior. This Hornet represents one of the finest big sedans of the early 1950s. In 1953, Hudson won 22 Nascar races and earned 13 AAA competition awards. This particular model was also owned by former Nascar driver Bobby Gerhart. There's certainly no Driving Miss Daisy in this car.

The original 289 powered Cobras were really neat cars. They don't have the rip your face off look that the 427 Cobras have, and they have the look of a proper vintage sports car. I like the narrow fenders and the wire wheels.  1965 serial number CSX2570 was purchased new by the same family that held on to the car until 2011. Like several of the other cars I have featured, this is another example that is almost entirely original in condition. This car was also used by Shelby at the 1965 New York Auto Show. Gooding & Co. estimates $650,000 - $850,000. I have a feeling this car will go higher than that.A college professor of mine was a Ford dealer at the time of the introduction of the Cobra and he said the 289s were the best handling car he had ever driven, and that the Cobra was ruined once they started putting 427s in the street cars.


Source & Photos: Gooding & Co.

Scottsdale 2012: Meet the new kid on the block, Bonhams

Ok, ok Bonhams auction house isn't exactly "new". They've been at it since 1793, before there were even cars. But, for 2012 they're joining the ranks in Scottsdale, AZ for what will likely become an annual auction. Their catalog is divided into two distinct sections, automobilia and cars. Looking at the cars, they picked a very nice selection for starters. Here's some that stood out to me.

This 1969 Porsche 911S is a real looker with the Martini colors and full race trim. This car is fully set up for vintage SCCA race duties and has a Elverude built 2 liter motor that packs 225 horse power. This is a turn key vintage racer that was built right and ready to go.

I have a special spot reserved in my heart for early E-type Jaguars. This 1962 3.8 litre roadster is a true barn find. It has been in storage sine 1976. While it was redone at some point in the past, including a color change, you really can't fault the car's current condition. It presents itself really well and could make an excellent driver or be restored to it's original color combo.




One of the highlights of the auction is this 1930 Rolls Royce Phantom I transformable convertible sedan. This is one of two built with coachwork by Hibbard & Darrin, and was originally given as a gift by Paramount Studios and director Josef von Sternberg to actress Marlene Dietrich. A long history follows the car and has just received a comprehensive $500,000 restoration. And has not been shown since the restoration was completed.


This 1967 Porsche 906E was driven by Otto Zipper and Scooter Patrick to a 1967 USRRC under 2 litre class win. This car would be a welcome addition to any vintage race or concours and certainly the Porsche Rennsport Reunion. This ex-works car has been fully restored to it's 1967 championship livery.

When you think of the Monte Carlo Rally, your mind conjures up images of Mini Coopers and Audi Quattros. Not a full size Bentley sedan. But compete this 1952 R-type saloon did in the 1953 rally. At the hands of Mike Couper, this Bentley won the Concours de Comfort class.


Source & Photos: Bonhams

What is the most iconic car of all time?

This year, Jaguar celebrates the 50th anniversary of the launch of the E-type. The E-type is considered by many as THE car that defined the 1960s and is one of the most iconic cars of all times. This leads us to wonder what other cars are truly iconic cars. The Ford Model T? The VW Beetle? Mercedes 300 SL Gullwing? 1959 Cadillac? the 1986 Ford Taurus? How about the 1968 Corvette? Give us your insight and we'll compile a list of what our readers say are the most iconic cars of all time.

Jaguar to unveil the baddest cat of them all. The XKR-S.

Jaguar is billing the XKR-S as the most potent production car they have made in their 75 year history. And what a great way to celebrate it. Full specs won't be released until March 1st, but we do know that the XKR-S will pack a supercharged V8 making 550 horsepower with a 0-60 time of 4.2 seconds. The styling is much bolder than the current XKR especially in this bright blue hue teased to us. We do spy a touch of carbon fiber on the front fascia and on the rear spoiler and of course there's lots of piano black trim which makes for a very cool look. Still, nothing beats a fast cat in traditional British Racing Green. 

Press Release:

JAGUAR TO LAUNCH XKR-S AND CELEBRATE 50 YEARS OF E-TYPE IN GENEVA

Jaguar will launch its most potent series production car ever, the all-new XKR-S, at the Geneva motorshow on March 1.

This all-new model will significantly broaden the appeal of the XK range, offering enthusiastic drivers a compelling, fresh choice in the luxury GT class.

With an uprated supercharged V8 engine, overhauled suspension and a new aerodynamically-driven design, the XKR-S is the ultimate expression of Jaguar’s long held duality of purpose: GT luxury with incredible performance.

“The XKR-S is a bold and exciting new model for Jaguar,” said Adrian Hallmark, Jaguar’s new Global Brand Director. “We expect to attract both loyal and new Jaguar driving enthusiasts who still want the comfort, opulence and class only a Jaguar can offer, combined with inspirational performance.”

The XKR-S produces 550PS and 680Nm of torque, enough power to offer a top speed of 186mph (300km/h). Its performance credentials speak for themselves: 0-60mph takes 4.2 seconds, with 0-100mph dismissed in just 8.6 seconds.

The XKR-S is not merely the quickest Jaguar ever, but also the most agile, responsive and driver-focused. It exploits the XK’s strong, lightweight aluminium body architecture to maximise both handling and economy. Alongside its incredible performance, the XKR-S is the only car in its class that emits less than 300g/km CO2.

Bespoke suspension changes to the front and rear offer ultimate precision, control and driver appeal, while a reprogrammed Adaptive Dynamics system allows the enthusiastic driver to explore the edges of the handling envelope.

Full details, images and video of the XKR-S will be available on Geneva press day – March 1.

Alongside the exciting new XKR-S, Jaguar will be marking the 50th anniversary of the E-Type with the first in a series of celebrations that take place during 2011.

Jaguar will be hosting E-Type drives at the Parc des Eaux Vives in Geneva, where the original car was launched by the marque’s founder Sir William Lyons half a century ago.

The appeal of E-Type transcended the automotive world. Such is the inherent rightness of its proportions, stance and purity of line, that it is a permanent exhibit in New York’s Museum of Modern Art.

Its influence is still apparent in Jaguar’s modern range - products that offer a peerless blend of performance, comfort, cutting-edge technology and award-winning design.

“It is impossible to overstate the impact the E-Type had,” said Ian Callum, Jaguar Design Director. “Here was a car that encapsulated the spirit of the revolutionary era it came to symbolise. We’re looking forward to celebrating achievement and looking forward with our all-new sports cars in Geneva.”

Source: Jaguar

It's official. Jaguar and Land Rover sold to Tata

Ford Motor Company has made official announcement that it has sold Jaguar and Range Rover to the Tata Motors of India. For $2.3 Billion, two of the most famous brands to symbolize Great Britan will now symbolize India. While Ford is selling the companies. They will maintain a stake in both automakers. Ford will also supply Tata with various components for both brands. Items such as stampings and powertrains will be supplied. While the deal is final, there are still some governmental hoops for Ford and Tata to jump through before it's all said and done. But these should not be a problem according to Ford. We're just keeping our fingers crossed that a $2,500 Jaguar doesn't become part of the plan. Though a plain jane $2,500 Land Rover would be cool for weekend off roading.

Source: Ford

PRESS RELEASE
FORD MOTOR COMPANY ANNOUNCES AGREEMENT TO SELL JAGUAR LAND ROVER TO TATA MOTORS

DEARBORN, Mich., March 26, 2008 – Ford Motor Company [NYSE: F] announced today that it has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its Jaguar Land Rover operations to Tata Motors.

The transaction is the culmination of Ford's decision last August to explore strategic options for the Jaguar Land Rover business, as the company accelerates its focus on its core Ford brand and "One Ford" global transformation.

The sale is expected to close by the end of the next quarter and is subject to customary closing conditions, including receipt of applicable regulatory approvals.

The total amount to be paid in cash by Tata Motors for Jaguar Land Rover upon closing will be approximately US $2.3 billion. At closing, Ford will then contribute up to approximately US $600 million to the Jaguar Land Rover pension plans.

"Jaguar and Land Rover are terrific brands," said Alan Mulally, president and CEO, Ford Motor Company. "We are confident that they are leaving our fold with the products, plan and team to continue to thrive under Tata's stewardship. Now, it is time for Ford to concentrate on integrating the Ford brand globally, as we implement our plan to create a strong Ford Motor Company that delivers profitable growth for all."

"This is a good agreement. It provides the Jaguar Land Rover management team and employees with the assurances needed to maintain their focus on delivering the best results for the business," said Lewis Booth, executive vice president, Ford Motor Company, who has responsibility for Ford of Europe, Volvo and Jaguar Land Rover. "I am confident that, under its new owner, Jaguar Land Rover will continue to build upon the significant improvements and product successes it has achieved in recent years."

As part of the transaction, Ford will continue to supply Jaguar Land Rover for differing periods with powertrains, stampings and other vehicle components, in addition to a variety of technologies, such as environmental and platform technologies. Ford also has committed to provide engineering support, including research and development, plus information technology, accounting and other services.

In addition, Ford Motor Credit Company will provide financing for Jaguar and Land Rover dealers and customers during a transitional period, which can vary by market, of up to 12 months.

The parties believe these arrangements will support Jaguar Land Rover's current product plans, while providing Jaguar Land Rover freedom to develop its own stand-alone capabilities in the future that will best serve its premium manufacturer requirements.

The parties do not anticipate any significant changes to Jaguar Land Rover employees' terms of employment on completion.

Speaking about today's agreement, Mr. Ratan N. Tata, Chairman of Tata Sons and Tata Motors, commented: "We are very pleased at the prospect of Jaguar and Land Rover being a significant part of our automotive business. We have enormous respect for the two brands and will endeavor to preserve and build on their heritage and competitiveness, keeping their identities intact. We aim to support their growth, while holding true to our principles of allowing the management and employees to bring their experience and expertise to bear on the growth of the business."

Jaguar Land Rover's employees, trade unions and the UK Government have been kept informed of developments as the sale process progressed and have indicated their support for the agreement.

Speaking on behalf of Jaguar Land Rover, Geoff Polites, chief executive officer, said: "Jaguar Land Rover's management team is very pleased that Ford and Tata Motors have come to an agreement today. Our team has been consulted extensively on the deal content and feels confident that it provides for the business needs of both our brands going forward.

"We have also had the opportunity to meet senior executives from Tata Motors and the Tata group," Polites continued. "They have expressed confidence in the team that has delivered significant improvements in Jaguar Land Rover's business performance. We feel confident that we can forge a strong working relationship with our new parent company, and we look forward to a bright and successful future for Jaguar Land Rover."

It's official. It's Tata for Jag and Rover

There were many speculations and leaks that Indian car maker Tata Motors was the front runner to purchase Jaguar and Range Rover. Both Tata and Ford denied that this was case and that an announcement would be made after the new year. So here is the official word from Ford. Tata is the favorite to purchase both luxury brands. This will give Ford Motor Company a much needed boost in money.

Tata Motors was favored by many of the principal parties involved. Mainly by the unions for the workforce at both companies in England. Ford has also stated that they are interested in keeping involved with both Jaguar and Range Rover, suppling components and engines. A similar system was set up when Ford sold Aston Martin in 2007.

There are still many hurdles to jump before all of this dust settles, and we will keep you informed with the latest developments.

Source: Detroit Free Press.

PRESS RELEASE:
STATEMENT: POTENTIAL SALE OF JAGUAR LAND ROVER

DEARBORN, Mich., Jan. 3, 2008 – The following statement is attributable to Lewis Booth, executive vice president – Ford of Europe and Premier Automotive Group (Chairman – Jaguar, Land Rover, Volvo and Ford of Europe):

"Ford is committed to focused negotiations at a more detailed level with Tata Motors concerning the potential sale of the combined Jaguar Land Rover business."

"There is still a considerable amount of work to do, and while no final decision has been made, we will proceed with further substantive discussions with Tata Motors over the forthcoming weeks with a view to securing an agreement that is in the best interests of all parties concerned."

Jag Rover status. Nothing til after the new year

Ford is going to stay tight lipped til after the new year regarding the sale of Jaguar and Land Rover. Automotive News is reporting that three bidders are still in the running. Inda manufacturer Tata Motors is in the running, but not the single bidder as reported by the Birmingham Post yesterday.

Tata Motors, Mahindra & Mahindra and U.S. private equity firm One Equity Partners are all bidders, but as reported, Tata, looks to be the most likely candidate to take home Jaguar and Land Rover. All for a cool $2 Billion.

Stay tuned for more news as this develops.

Source: Automotive News

Tata for Jag and Rover?

Britain's Birmingham Post is reporting that India's Tata Motors is confirmed as the winning bidder to purchase both Jaguar and Land Rover from Ford Motor Company. Neither Ford or Tata will confirm that this is true. Though Birmingham Post is saying that an official announcement could come as early as tomorrow, December 21st. Tata is reportedly spending $2 Billion dollars to purchase both brands. Further news as this develops.


Source: Automotive News.

LA 2007: Pricing for 2009 Jaguar XF announced

Jaguar has finally announced pricing on the all new 2009 XF, which is the replacement for the X Type.

MSRP will start at $49,975. The new XF will offer 2 V8 engine choices. A naturally aspirated 4.2 V8 and a supercharged 4.2 V8. The later will have an MSRP of $62,975.

The styling is a drastic move for Jaguar. Following the lines of the XK coupe and roadster, yet has a look all its own.

Look for the 2009 XK in Jaguar showrooms starting in March 2008.

PRESS RELEASE:

JAGUAR NORTH AMERICA ANNOUNCES U.S. PRICING FOR THE NEW 2009 XF SEDAN

LOS ANGELES, Calif., November 14, 2007 – Jaguar North America announced today at the Greater Los Angeles Auto Show the U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for their newest model, the 2009 Jaguar XF.

"This is the New Jaguar" says Marti Eulberg, executive vice president Sales and Marketing, Jaguar North America, "The well-equipped 2009 XF sedan will go on sale March 1, 2008 at an MSRP under $50,000 with a standard V8 engine."

The XF will launch with the starting MSRP price of $49,975 (USD)

"The 2009 XF showcases Jaguar's leadership in automotive design, with stunning craftsmanship, quality and dynamic refinement, while offering exceptional standard equipment and exciting advanced technology," adds Eulberg. "This groundbreaking sedan is proof that Jaguar is moving boldly into the future with seductively-designed cars that are head-turning and of the highest quality."

The introduction of the XF signals a dramatic new design and engineering direction for Jaguar. Challenging convention and setting its own rules, the new Jaguar XF fuses the style and performance of a sports car with the refinement, space and sophistication of a modern luxury sedan.

The 2009 XF will be priced starting at $49,975 MSRP for the V8 Luxury model. The V8 Premium Luxury XF will have a base MSRP of $55,975. A Supercharged XF with its 420 horsepower engine will retail for $62,975 MSRP. All prices include a $775 destination and delivery charge. Tax, title, and registration fees not included.

NEW JAGUAR XF KEY POINTS –

• Three trim levels will be offered in the U.S. market – Luxury, Premium Luxury and the 420hp Supercharged model.


• The XF is a four door Jaguar that combines the style and performance of a sports car with the refinement, space and sophistication of a luxury sedan.


• Class-leading torsional stiffness delivers refinement and dynamic performance – underpinning the driver-focused yet remarkably comfortable driving experience.
  
• The XF will be available at launch in the U.S. with two different engines – 4.2-liter naturally-aspirated V8 and 4.2-liter supercharged V8 – all featuring Jaguar's proven six-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel-mounted paddles as standard in the XK sports car.
  
• With its dramatic styling, powerful yet beautiful lines and a distinctive face, the XF is the first sedan to exemplify Jaguar's new design language.


• Using only the finest materials, which are applied in a very contemporary way, the XF's interior is crafted to create a truly warm and bespoke environment.


• Challenging convention, the XF offers sophisticated instrumentation and intuitive technologies. Upon entry, the start button pulses, like a heartbeat. Start the engine and the JaguarDrive SelectorTM rises into the palm of the hand, while rotating vents turn from their flush, 'parked' position to their functional open position.


• The coupe-like lines of the XF (which are similar to the XK's) belie the amount of space inside: there is room for five adults in comfort, generous interior stowage and a trunk capacity of 17.7 cu. ft., plus the opportunity to fold down the rear seats and add a further 14.8 cu. ft.


• Key driver aids on the XF include Electronic Brake Assist, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Anti-lock Braking System, Dynamic Stability Control, Cornering Brake Control and Engine Drag Torque Control. And, for the first time in a Jaguar, Understeer Control Logic which decelerates the car and helps to restore grip to the front wheels when required.


• Jaguar-exclusive Bowers & Wilkins 440-watt Surround Sound System is available on all three trim levels.


• The first cars will be delivered to U.S. customers in March 2008.
  

Source: Jaguar

Ford announces 3rd quarter earnings. Break even a possibility in 07

Ford showed today that there is some light begining to show at the end of the tunnel. While just about every auto maker showed a loss of some sort, Ford's is showing to not be as bad as you might think. For the 3rd quarter of 07, Ford showed a net loss of only $380 million dollars. Compare that with a $5.2 billion loss this time last year, and that is a quite considerable improvement.

Revenue was also on the up scale this year. $41.1 billion vs. $37.1 billion last year. When looking at the North America car sales numbers, there was a loss of $1 billion dollars. Last year it was a $2.1 billion loss. North American revenues were up $1 billion this year also. $16.5 billion to $15.4 billion last year.

World wide vehicle sales are up by 20,000 units this year also. Ford recorded 1,487,000 sales this year.

Ford also released their forecast for the 4th quarter and the end of the year performances. They are pushing for either a small loss or to hopefully break even for 2007. Ford has already sold the Aston Martin brand, and is should have the deals wrapped up for Land Rover and Jaguar in the early part of 2008. That will free up alot of cash for Ford.

Source: Autoblog.com & Automotive News

Jaguar X Type axed for North America

Jaguar has announced that the X Type sedan will no longer be sold in North America. Production for the "Baby Jag" will end in December. The up coming Jaguar XF is slated to replace both the X Type and the aging S Type for next year. Since its launch in 2002 the X Type has failed to meet the sales goals Ford Motor Co. & Jaguar had hoped for.

Competition from the Mercedes Benz C Class and BMW 3 Series won over potential buyers. Potential buyers were disappointed with the cheaply appointed interiors, and poor packaging of an old design that rode on the Ford Mondeo platform. Since the 2002 launch, sales have steadily decreased. 33,018 units were sold in 02. Through September of this year, only 2,403 X Types have been sold. While production for North America will come to an end. The X Type will still be sold elsewhere in the world through 2010, when production is expected to end.