2012 CAMARO Z28 - with 6.2L supercharged V8 SPOTTED AND CONFIRMED!!!

NO MORE DOUBTING THE CAMARO Z28!!!
2012 Camaro Z28 with 6.2L supercharged V8 (6AT in this model). No confirmation yet on whether this is the LS9 or LSA motor.

This Camaro Z28 was captured out testing with several other Camaros, as well as a Mustang GT500 (for comparison of course).

Seen prominently, even with the front covering is a much lower front fascia with large intakes. You can make out the shape despite the covering and it resembles the latest Transformers 3 Bumblebee Camaro front fascia. The hood cowl also looks to be more prominent than on standard Camaro.

The wheels are 20″ SP550 anodized black - 20×10 front and 20×11 rears. Wrapped in Goodyear Eagle F1 tires. The brake calipers very much resemble those from the CTS-V.

Quad exhaust (dual pipes per side) are at the rear, and the photographer described the sound from this car as “nothing short of unholy!”

Best part is, GM was courteous enough to tape the engine specs on the dash: 6.2L supercharged V8, with Auto Transmission.

Malaysian cars better built this year: JD Power

The numbers speak for themselves - according to the results of J.D. Power's Asia Pacific 2009 Malaysia Initial Quality Study (IQS), the overall new-vehicle initial quality in Malaysia has markedly improved from 2008.
The study, now in its seventh year, examines new-vehicle quality during the first two to six months of ownership.

The study measures more than 200 problem symptoms covering eight vehicle components: vehicle exterior; driving experience; features/controls/displays; audio/entertainment/navigation; seats; HVAC; vehicle interior; and engine/transmission.

All problems are summarised as the number of problems reported per 100 vehicles (PP100), and lower scores indicate a lower rate of problem incidences and higher performance. The study was based on responses from 2,874 new-vehicle owners who purchased their vehicle between Sept 2008 and May 2009, with 52 passenger car, pickup and utility vehicle models from across 15 brands evaluated.

The Malaysian average was 136 in 2009, improving by 22 from 2008, and all eight component areas showed improvement levels. Vehicle exterior issues and problems related to the driving experience represent nearly 50% of total reported problems.

In terms of specific models by segment, the Perodua Myvi ranks highest in the compact car segment for a third consecutive year with 127 PP100, followed by the Proton Savvy (154) and the Perodua Viva (186).
Meanwhile, the new Honda City ranks highest in the entry mid-size car segment, with 76 PP100. Second in the category is the Toyota Vios (107), with the Proton Saga (158) placed third.

In the mid-size car segment, the Toyota Corolla Altis takes the honours with 80 PP100, followed by the Honda Civic (103) and the Nissan Sylphy (109).

As for the MPV/van segment, Toyota's Innova takes the top spot for a second consecutive year, with a score of 85 PP100, with the Nissan Grand Livina (89) and the Toyota Avanza (100) making up the top trio.
In the pickup segment, the Isuzu D-max ranks highest with a 66 PP100 rating, well ahead of the Toyota Hilux (94) and the Mitsubishi Triton (101).

Jack Roush Crashes Plane During Landing in Wisconsin

NASCAR team owner Jack Roush needs to leave the hospital immediately, run don't walk to the nearest convenience store, and buy a single lottery ticket. After walking away from his second plane crash in a decade, the odds are real good that he'll hit the jackpot. Not that he really needs the money.

Roush crashed into a pond in Alabama back in 2002 and nearly drowned. Last night, he and a friend were traveling to the Experimental Aircraft Association's annual AirVenture gathering in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, when his plane reportedly stalled during an aborted landing attempt. Associated Press reports indicate that Roush and his passenger are in stable condition at a local hospital. Hopefully, both recover quickly from this accident and start flying coach.

The Cat in the Hat crashes his Plane in Wisconsin

The Cat in the Hat, better known as Jack Roush and owner of Roush-Fenway Racing and respected Ford Mustang guru crashed his Raytheon Beechcraft Premier 390 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin Tuesday night.
Witnesses said that Roush apparently approached too low and too slow, causing the nose of the plane to hit the ground, spinning the plane 180 degrees before hitting the ground and breaking the tail section off.
Fortunately Roush and his passenger both exited the aircraft under their own power and Roush is currently in serious, but stable, condition at an area hospital. The accident will be under review by the NTSB and FAA to determine a cause.

NADAguides.com Reveals the Dominating Strength of Today's Muscle Cars Muscle Cars Continue to Roar ... with Efficiency!Reveals the Dominating Strength of Today's Muscle Cars Muscle Cars Continue to Roar ... with Efficiency!

COSTA MESA, Calif., July 27 -- /PRNewswire/ -- NADAguides.com, the leading provider of vehicle pricing and information, reveals the continued popularity of muscle cars in the Website's daily list of "Top 10 Most Researched Sports Cars and Coupes" – with modern muscle cars from Chevrolet, Ford and Dodge dominating the list.
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"Demand for modern muscle is on the rise, as seen by the introduction and buzz surrounding the 2010 model year Chevrolet Camaro, Dodge Challenger and Ford Mustang," says, Don Christy, Jr., president of NADAguides.com. "Buyers like the appeal of their sleek modern-meets-old-school exteriors combined with powerful yet impressively fuel efficient engines."
Christy also noted that the interest in contemporary muscle cars is mirrored by growing popularity of classic muscle.  "We've seen a 15 percent growth in search activity in the Classic Car section on NADAguides.com this year. We also saw some models fetching top dollar at Barrett-Jackson's latest collector car auction held in Orange County, Calif., and those who were following our Twitter feed read that live."
These are the 2010 American muscle cars that are dominating our search right now:

2010 Chevrolet Camaro

Consistently taking the number one spot on NADAguides.com's most researched, the two-door, four-passenger 2010 Chevrolet Camaro is not only edgy on the exterior, but is also equipped with fierce power under the hood.  The base engine of the Camaro found in the LS and LT trims is a 3.6L V6 with 304 HP, however the top trim levels (1SS and 2SS) took a big jump in power with a huge 6.2L V8 engine pushing out 426 HP.  This V8 produces outstanding performance and efficiency and surprisingly gets 24 MPG on the highway with 420 lb-ft of torque (the amount of "turning power" the engine has), while the V6 engine gets an impressive 29 MPG on the highway with 273 lb-ft of torque.  The Camaro is also available with an automatic transmission version of the SS which features Chevrolet's Active Fuel Management system offering 25 MPG highway while delivering 400 HP.
2010 Dodge Challenger
The 2010 Dodge Challenger is a perfect blend of vintage muscle design and modern technology.  This two-door sports coupe not only comes with a 3.5L V6 in the SE trims or a 5.7L Hemi V8 in the R/T trims, but the SRT8 version is powered by the 6.1L Hemi V8.  These engines not only offer amazing horsepower and torque but return great fuel economy.  The 3.5L V6 gets 25 MPG highway with 250 HP and 250 lb-ft of torque, while the 5.7L V8 gets 25 MPG highway with 372 HP and 400 lb-ft of torque.  The top of the line SRT8 model gets 19 MPG with 425 HP and 420 lb-ft of torque; not bad for a 5 passenger muscle car.

2010 Ford Mustang

Rounding out the top three modern muscle cars consistently seen on the Websites' most researched is the 2010 Ford Mustang.  With a new grill and fascia for 2010, power dome hood and a few nice powerful engine boosts from the previous year, the 2010 Ford Mustang received a well-accepted exterior and under the hood makeover.  The 4.0L V6 with 210 HP found on the entry level trims achieves 26 MPG on the highway. The GT trims are equipped with a 4.6L V8 engine getting 24 MPG on the highway and outputting 315 HP after an improved exhaust, intake and ECU (Electronic Control Unit) tuning.  Lastly, the GT500 receives a noticeably powerful boost with the 5.4L supercharged V8 getting 22 MPG on the highway and a remarkable 540 HP and 510 lb-ft of torque.  This took Mustang to a whole new tire-spinning level.

HOT ROD DRIVES THE SHELBY GT500 AT VIR

2011 Shelby GT500

Here's an invitation HOT ROD couldn't refuse: an opportunity to test the 2011 GT500 at one of America's classic road courses, Virginia International Raceway. The supercharged Shelby has always been a rocket ship, with the previous version sporting 540 hp. But with the big power came compromise, as the cast-iron 5.4L truck motor and Roots blower added several hundred pounds to the Mustang's chassis, most of it right over the nose. All that extra mass between the front wheels made the otherwise perky ponycar feel downright ponderous at the limit. Ford has addressed that issue straight-on with the latest GT500, using a linerless aluminum block to shave over 100 lbs. from the front end.

The new block employs a proprietary process Ford calls Plasma Transfer Wire Arc. Only 150 microns thick, the trick metal-spraying technology permits the same bore and bore spacing as the iron 5.4L casting. Meanwhile, a calibration tweak and other refinements boost output slightly to 550 hp and 510 lb ft, while also providing a noticeable improvement in drivability. Ford brought both iron-block '10 models and '11 aluminum cars to the track-day event so we could sample both flavors on VIR's 4.1-mile Grand West Course, where the difference was obvious. The new piece is more agile and pointy, less plow-y, especially in quick transitions. Ford says the '11 model is a good nine seconds a lap quicker here.

A good part of the improvement in lap times, we believe, can be attributed to the optional SVT Performance Package. For an extra $3495 over the just-under-$50,000 base price, checking that box on the order form will get you revised suspension settings, 19 and 20-inch forged wheels, and Goodyear F1 Supercar G:2 tires. While fairly stiff for boulevard loafing, the Performance Package is the setup for more aggressive driving. Greenish and/or cheap buyers will be gladdened to know that with fuel economy ratings of 15 city and 23 highway, Shelby's latest hot rod carries no gas guzzler tax.

The 2010 Camaro Could Save Detroit

2010 Camaro Hot Rod SEMA Introduction

At the 2008 SEMA Show, the 2010 Camaro was designated at Official Car of SEMA. I think the Camaro could save Detroit and I can tell you why.  

While at the show, I was asked by GM to participate in a video discussing the state of the American auto makers with the Camaro as the back drop.

You can see a portion of my interview, but suffice it to say that the effort Chevrolet has gone to in order to make the Camaro a personalized performance vehicle goes as far as the industry has ever attempted.

In April 1964, Ford introduced the Ford Mustang as a car that "could be personalized to suit your tastes." The popular ponycar would go on to sell over 1 million units in less than a year. But those kind of volumes don't exist anywhere today.

Camaro is about pride. Pride about a corporation that despite difficult news, has perhaps the best new car lineup in its history. Camaro, with all the hype, delivers and HOT ROD is proud to say that we look forward to working with GM and Camaro enthusiasts to make the next year one where Camaro, Mustang and Challenger will be the talk of Detroit and will create the momentum performance car enthusiasts have only dreamed of since the '60s.

LEANER, MEANER 2010 FORD MUSTANG MODERNIZED, WITH MORE REFINEMENT, NEW LOOK INSIDE, OUT

• New muscular, sculptured exterior design is a modern evolution of Mustang heritage
• Powerful new interior design features world-class craftsmanship, upgraded materials and new technology
• Performance improvements – larger wheels, retuned suspension and increased horsepower – developed from engineering experience on the race track and from special editions including the Mustang Bullitt

Muscle goes modern for 2010 as the Ford Mustang – America's favorite muscle car for 45 years straight – hits the streets with a new exterior design; new world-class interior featuring well-crafted materials and updated technology; and a V-8 with even more horsepower and an even throatier signature Mustang exhaust sound.

Combine those elements with the new Mustang's improved handling characteristics, more standard safety and technology features and its already-strong safety and quality performance and reputation, and it's easy to see how the muscle car known around the world delivers on the promise of fast, fun and affordable performance for a whole new era.

"More than 9 million customers have made Mustang one of the world's most beloved automotive and cultural icons," said Mark Fields, Ford's president of The Americas.  "Making sure this modern legend lives up to their expectations has been a driving force for the team, which went to great lengths – gathering customer input everywhere from race tracks to Main Streets in cities throughout the U.S. – working to create the best Mustang ever."

For 2010, the team delivered.  "The new Mustang marks new levels of both power and refinement," said Paul Randle, Mustang chief engineer.  "We've designed and engineered this to be the next classic Mustang that everyone talks about for years and years."

In true Mustang tradition, there is a "steed for every need."  At launch, customers can choose from a V-6 or V-8 with their choice of coupe, convertible or innovative glass roof, plus several new options and features delivering the opportunity for customers to personalize their cleaner, meaner-looking Mustangs. 

"The best Mustangs have always been the ones that connect young America with the spirit of the times – and the 2010 does exactly that," said J Mays, Ford's group vice president of Design.  "The new Mustang is close to the magnetic center of the original, fully loaded with the swagger you'd expect, but with modern refinement and attention to detail like you've never seen in a muscle car."

It starts with the more aggressive grille, punctuated with the first new Mustang emblem since the car's introduction in 1964.  Both the V-6 and GT have brand-new sculptured front-end designs unique to each model.  The headlamps and turn indicators, now integrated into one unit, are modern interpretations inspired by the 1970 Mustang.  On the V-6, the fog lamps are located on the lower fascia, while on the GT, the fog lamps are again located in the upper grille – but are smaller than the outgoing model, similar to the original lamps of the 1967-68 models that inspired them.    

"We understand Mustang's heritage and iconic status it has in the world and as a symbol of Americana," said Peter Horbury, executive director of Design, The Americas.  "We wanted to create a face that is more muscular but unquestionably, unequivocally Mustang and carry that spirit through to the entire car."

The exterior sheet metal, except for the fast-back roofline, is all new for 2010.  At the front, the new headlamps, lower fascias, fenders and grille are capped by a powerdome hood that adds to the muscular appearance while functionally allowing for enhanced air cooling of the engine. 
Mustang's washer-fluid nozzles are tucked into the cowl, while the antenna has been moved to the rear, both of which create a cleaner appearance while also reducing wind noise.

Front rear fenders feature taut, sculptured wheel flares, like a tight skin stretched over the wheels.  A classic spear character line on the doors leads to a modern indication of "hip" rear fenders.  "It helps give the car aggressive, forward direction, like it's ready to jump," said Doug Gaffka, Mustang chief designer.

The rear end design features aggressively angled rear corners, a sculptured decklid and prominent rear badge. A rear-view camera incorporated into the spoiler is available on some models.

A notable new tail lamp design features three LED bulbs firing sequentially from the inside for turn indication.  The sequential bulbs were a distinct Mustang feature in the '60s and comeback to the 2010 for the first time since then.  Locating the reverse lamps vertically creates a modern version of the Ford classic three-lens taillamp. 

The best of new, heritage

Cleverly combining modern technology with Mustang heritage is a signature of the 2010 model, in terms of both design and engineering.

"All of the Bullitt elements are the base foundation of the GT," said Randle, noting engine and chassis improvements.  "We also applied some improvements gained from Mustang racing.  We're learning constantly and always giving that to the customer on the base car."

The wheel-and-tire combinations are 1 inch bigger across the board, ranging from 17 to 19 inches, which helps improve handling and braking.  The shocks have been retuned on all models as well.

"We adjusted the springs, stabilizer bars and shocks to better balance the ride, steering and handling for all models, which results in a more engaging driving experience," adds Mustang Vehicle Engineering manager Tom Barnes.  "The 2010 Mustangs feel more controlled for steering and handling, yet retain a good ride balance."

The 2010 Mustang 4.6-liter V-8 benefits from innovations from the popular Bullitt model.  Power has increased to 315 horsepower.

"It runs on regular gasoline, but if you put in premium it has adaptive calibration that will give you even better mid-range torque," Barnes said, adding that Easy Fuel™, Ford's innovative capless fuel system, is standard on all models.

"It's an upgrade to the most-robust, most-accessorized engine in the marketplace today," Randle added.  "No one has the reliability, no one has the upgraded options.  This is a fantastic engine, proven on the race track, the drag strip and on the highway."

AdvanceTrac™ Electronic Stability Control (ESC) is now standard and complements Mustang's all-speed traction control and anti-lock braking system (ABS).

"It gives a driver a little more confidence that in any type of condition the car will maintain what they want it to do," Barnes said. "The 2010 Mustang improves ride quality and maintains world-class steering and handling."

In addition to all of the design and driving dynamics improvements, the 2010 Ford Mustang is engineered to maintain its top government safety ratings.  Standard safety equipment includes: dual stage front driver and passenger air bags; front seat-mounted side air bags; and, Ford's Personal Safety System. 

Interior leads in design, materials, content and comfort

Like the exterior, the interior design is all new with world-class materials and execution.  
The powerful new one-piece instrument panel design is crafted in seamless soft-touch TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) skin fully encompassing available genuine aluminum-finish panels.  Mustang's chromed-ringed gauges and dual-vane air register vents are precisely crafted and positioned.

"That's the difference between good enough and exceptional," said Gary Morales, Interior Design manager.  "We wouldn't accept anything less than leadership design and world-class craftsmanship."

The instrument panel and console flow as one shape, another strong connection to Mustang heritage.  The seats and arm rests have softer materials with high-quality stitching. 

The new center stack design adds the latest version of Ford SYNC™, with new features 911 Assist and Vehicle Health Report.  Drivers also can customize their ambient and instrument lighting through the My Color™ system, which features 125 color options.

"The centerstack is quite progressive.  The electronic finish panel containing the audio and climate control buttons and knobs are integrated into the finish panel," said Kim Zielinski, Mustang Instrument Panel engineer, 2010 Mustang.  "I believe the customers will really like the new look."

In addition to the improvements in technology and comfort, drivers will notice a quieter ride. "It's much more vault-like," Barnes said.  "But we maintained the signature Mustang sound."

The upgraded instrument panel along with new sound deadeners added to select areas helped improve interior quietness, especially at high speeds or on rough roads.  All the better to hear that famous Mustang roar.

With a completely redone exterior that echoes the classic Mustang designs of the past, an interior featuring world-class materials, numerous technology upgrades and an improved driving experience, the 2010 Mustang is poised to become the latest classic in the proud line of Ford's iconic American muscle car.

"The 2010 Mustang is drop-dead gorgeous," Randle said.  "This car marks the best efforts of 45 years of passion and enthusiasm among the best designers, engineers and manufacturing experts in the business, and we can't wait for everyone to see it and start driving it."

The 2010 Mustang will be built at the Auto Alliance International Plant in Flat Rock, Mich.

Foose Design

About Chip Foose

In a relatively short career, Chip Foose has created a legacy of designs and accomplishments that are well beyond his years.

Born in Santa Barbara, California October 13, 1963

Chip Foose began working on automobiles at age seven for his father's company (Project Design). Encouraged by Ford and Preston Tucker designer Alex Tremulis, Chip started to attend the Art Center College of Design in 1982, however dropped out after two years due to financial difficulties.[1] After working for four years at ASHA Corp., Chip returned to the Art Center to complete his education. After graduating in 1990, Chip worked full-time for Sterenberger Design and part-time for Boyd Coddington.[2] In 1993, Chip resigned from Sterenberger to work for J Mays at Ford, however Coddington was able to convince Chip to work for him instead.[1] Working for Coddington full-time, Chip eventually became the president of Coddington's company Hot Rods by Boyd. While working for Coddington, Foose designed many of Coddington's wellknown creations such as the Boydster I and II.

In 1998, Chip went out on his own and opened up Foose Design in Huntington Beach, California, where he now builds amazing custom cars for private and commercial clientele. The company and his name grew to new frontiers. In 2000, he and MHT Luxury Wheels signed an agreement to produce a line of Foose Wheels.

Then, in 2002, The Discovery Channel decided to film a documentary on building a modified ’02 Ford Thunderbird called the Speedbird for the SEMA Show, and the segment was played frequently on the network. Chip gained more exposure in 2003 as a result of a TLC documentary on his design and creation of the Thunderbird. In 2004, the TLC program Overhaulin' began to air with Chip as the star of show.

In 2006, Chip launched a line of die cast replicas of many of his famous designs partnering with the makers of Johnny Lightning in the creation of JL Full Throttle. JL Full Throttle produced many of Chip's famous, award winning designs like Grand Master and Impression. Also replicated were a number of cars from Overhaulin'. Announced at the SEMA Show in 2006 was a partnership between Foose and Ford Motor Company to produce Foose designed Ford vehicles, the first of which was shown at the 2007 New York Auto Show.

Chip was also retained as design consultant to provide architects with unique styling elements for the exterior and interior of the $275 million expansion of Detroit's MotorCity Casino, anticipated to be complete by the end of 2007.

Chip also finds time to serve as the Vice Chairman of the Progeria Research Foundation, California Chapter. (Foose's youngest sister died of Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome.)

Chip and his wife Lynne live in Southern California with their two children Brock and Katie.

Hemisfear

In 2007, Chip began limited production (50 vehicles in total) of the Hemisfear. Also known as the Foose Coupe, the Hemisfear was designed by Chip in 1990 during his senior year at the Art Center. This earlier design drawing and model of the Hemisphere served as the inspiration for the Plymouth Prowler. The full scale, fully operational Hemisfear was publicly unveiled at the SEMA trade show in November 2006 bolstered by an agreement with die cast model car company, JL Full Throttle which had partnered with Chip to build both the real Hemisfear and scale models of the car.

The first available for sale production Foose Coupe as well as a design consultation for the design of the vehicles interior and exterior treatments with Chip was auctioned off at the Barrett-Jackson car auction in Palm Beach, Florida at the end of March 2007. The vehicle was the highest bid vehicle of the entire Barrett Jackson Auction

Honors and Awards

Chip has won widespread recognition for the excellence and originality of his automotive designs and creations. In November 1997, Chip became the youngest person to be inducted into the Hot Rod Hall of Fame. Additionally, Chip was inducted into the Darryl Starbird Rod & Custom Car Museum Hall of Fame in 2002, the Grand National Roadster Show Hall of Fame in 2003, and the San Francisco Rod and Custom Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 2005. Chip has also won the following awards for his work:

* America's Most Beautiful Roadster Award in 1995, 1996, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2003, and 2006. Some of these cars were designed by Foose and completed by other builders including such as Boyd Coddington, Barry White, and Bobby Alloway.
* Detroit Autorama Ridler Award in 2002, 2003 and 2005.
* The Good Guys Street Rod of the Year Award in the years 1990, 1991, 1995, 1997, 1999, and 2001.

Price range of a Foose vehicle (customized & ground up)? Most vehicles are based on a time and material quotation process. Out of respect for their privacy, we don’t usually discuss the finances of our clients.

Built for any celebrities? John Travolta, Tim Allen, Lance Armstrong, Nick Lachey

What do you think of the DUB/urban lifestyle movement? I appreciate all aspects of car design and car culture. The DUB and Urban market seems to get a lot of attention due to the sports and music celebrity aspect. That’s cool. It is just another expression of passion about cars. I see some amazing rides and new ideas in this market that really impresses me.

What new trends do you see? Wow, that’s a tough question. It’s like asking how long is a string! (Laugh!) The whole automotive culture and customizing seems to move in waves. All of a sudden a new expression or approach comes along. When you look at it closely it often has a foundation is earlier car culture. I have said many times there are no wrong answers in car customizing. Do what you love, express you personality, have fun!

Chip Foose Returns as Grand Marshal of SEMA Summer Car Show

Chip Foose, award-winning automotive designer and fabricator, and host of TLC's "Overhaulin'," will return as Grand Marshal of the second annual SEMA Show 'N Shine public car show, Saturday, July 24, at the Pasadena Convention Center.

Held in connection with the SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser (taking place the evening before, on July 23) and the SEMA Pinewood Drag Races, also on July 24, the Show 'N Shine car show will draw some of the best local enthusiast cars, trucks and classics, with all proceeds benefiting children's charities Childhelp and Victory Junction. More than 200 vehicles last year.

Foose, a California native and an integral part of its car culture for the past decade, began working for his father's automotive company as a boy and became the youngest member, at age 31, inducted into the Hot Rod Hall of Fame in 1997. He established his company, Foose Design, a year later.

"I was thrilled to be a part of the inaugural SEMA Show 'N Shine last year and am even more excited to return for 2010,” says Foose. “SEMA is an important organization for car enthusiasts and industry people like myself, and I’m proud to take part and work in supporting children's charities through this event."

Foose's design talent will be displayed at the show through his personal vehicles and those he's worked on, including a '59 Bel Air, among others. Last year, Foose brought a '56 Ford F-100 pickup, a '02 Ford T-Bird "Speedbird" that starred in "Rides" and his Foose Coupe.

"It's fantastic to have Chip Foose back again this year," says Joel Ayres, chairman of the SEMA Cares Committee. "Last year, I watched as Chip paused from an interview to draw a car on the T-shirt for one of the children from Childhelp. The young boy later exclaimed it was the best day of his life. Chip's celebrity status was a major reason for the success of our inaugural show, and we were pleased to hear his generous offer to once again help the children of Childhelp and Victory Junction Gang Camp."

Foose, says Show 'N Shine organizer Mike Spagnola of Street Scene Equipment, is an industry icon, one that any automotive enthusiast will recognize. "He's one of the most down-to-earth automotive celebrities I've ever met, and we're thrilled that he's accepted an invitation to join us once again."

Both Show 'N Shine and the Pinewood Drag Races are part of the 2010 SEMA Leadership Days. Other activities include the SPC Business Technology Conference and the Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser, both scheduled for the day and evening before, on July 23.

For more information, visit www.sema.org/leadershipdays.

Muscle Car Definition

Strict Definition of a Muscle Car:


A muscle car, by the strictest definition, is an intermediate sized, performance oriented model, powered by a large V8 engine, at an affordable price. Most of these models were based on "regular" production vehicles. These vehicles are generally not considered muscle cars, even when equipped with large V8s. If there was a high performance version available, it gets the credit, and not the vehicle that it was based on.

Examples: Buick GS, Chevrolete Chevelle SS, Dodge Charger R/T, Ford Torino/Cobra, Plymouth GTX, Plymouth Road Runner, Oldsmobile 442, Pontiac GTO


Fullsize Muscle Car:


The strict definition only includes intermediate size vehicles. In reality, performance oriented intermediate size vehicles didn't appear until 1964. Before then, manufacturers took existing fullsize vehicles and added extra performance to them. Because of this, the early fullsize performance vehicles are generally considered muscle cars.

Examples: Chevrolet Impala (SS only), Ford Galaxie (with 390 + cid engines only), Dodge Coronet (R/Ts only), etc.


Pony Cars and Compact Cars:


In addition to fullsize and intermediate muscle cars, a number of smaller vehicles started appearing on the automotive performance scene. These new "pony cars" and compact cars are generally considered muscle cars only if they have the top of the line performance engines and options.

Examples: Chevrolet Camaro (SS and Z28 models only), Ford Mustang (GTs and Boss only), Plymouth 'Cudas (no Barracudas), AMC Javelin, etc.


Personal Luxury Cars and Luxury Cars:


Although there were several personal luxury vehicles with performance engines and options, their heavy weight and high sticker prices went against the low cost performance definition of muscle cars. Therefore, they are not considered muscle cars.

Examples: Buick Riviera, Chrysler 300 Letter Cars, Pontiac Grand Prix, etc.


Two Seat Sports Cars:


Two seat sports cars such as the Chevrolet Corvette and the Ford Thunderbird are not considered muscle cars due to their high price and specialty nature. The only exception is the AMC AMX as it was relatively cheap, and was based on the AMC Javalin pony car.

Examples: AMC AMX, etc.