The Ferrari 360 models In a Nutshell

From 1999 to 2003, Global sport market was dominated by the incredible Ferrari 360 models. Ferrari 360 was a joint venture between Ferrari and Aloca. Aloca produced the chassis of the car. The Chassis was made up of all new aluminum and 40% stiffer compared its competitive models. Another advantage of chassis of this model was that it is 28% lighter compared other models of the same range. However, the most noteworthy aspect in this direction is the lightness in spite of 10% increase in overall dimension of the car. The Ferrari 360 models can be studied broadly under three heads depending upon their specifications and use. They are road models and race models. Here, we will discuss pros and cons of each model in brief.

The Ferrari 360 road models

The Ferrari 360 series had six road models. They are 360 Modena, 360 Spider, 360 Modena F1, 360 Spider F1, and Challenge Stradale. Every model had its unique specification for better performance. Modena had a six-speed manual along with 2-door luxurious sports coupe covered with a fixed roof. 360 Spider, according to many critics, is a convertible variant of the earlier one. Challenge Stradale was equipped with F1 electro-hydraulic manual for 360 degree challenges. Name Modena had its origin from the city Modena. All most all road models of Ferrari 360 road series followed same layout.

All of them comprised of 90° V8 F131 cylinders. Bore and stroke capacity of these models was 85/75 mm. 3586 cm³ was the total displacement capacity of all the models of this series. Maximum rotation per minute for these models was 8000. However F1 models of both Modena and spider had some added specifications. They were capable of producing power up to 300 kW at 8500 rpm. 275 pounds per feet at 4750 rpm was the maximum torque capacity of the models. Among the six road models of Ferrari 360 series, Challenge Stradale had the highest power of 317 kW at 8500 rotation per minute. Maximum speed limit of these models was 186 miles per hour. It had the capability to reach from zero to 100 miles per hour of speed with in just 10.3 seconds after starting.

The Ferrari 360 race models

In this category, there were three models. They were 360 Challenge, 360 GT and 360 GT-c. These models were non-road variants of Modena. These models were capable of shedding 265 pounds of weight through carbon fiber and getting rid of interior luxuries present in Modena road models. Interior of these models were completely stripped out. As a result, overall weight of the car was reduced. Specifications like fire extinguisher and roll cage enhanced the safety standard of these models. Cover of the rear engine of these models was covered by acrylic glass. This cosmetic change offered a distinguished look to racing models from road models.

Racing Boge dampers of conventional type were installed in racing models replacing electronic suspension facility of Modena. As a result, the height of the car lowered down and it offered better speed and acceleration. Though the engine performance of these models was more or less similar to Modena models, still there were several additional features. While designing these models more focus was given to reduction of weight, better weight balance and handling.

The Excalibur Cars in the Mirror of History

Excalibur is the brain child and dream car of noted designer Brooks Stevens. Brooks is the man behind designing several successful cars which ruled over the highways till 1970s. In Excalibur, the vision statement for Books was to build a car that would be perfect combo of vintage-modern look and performance. First Excalibur was produced in the year 1951. It had a Hennery J chassis and a wheel base of 100 inches Radius. Though Stevens built the initial model solely for private use, the design and performance of this car soon made it a strong competitor of Kaiser-Frazer.

Features and features of Excalibur car in early years

In the initial phase, body of the Excalibur was made up of hand hammered aluminum. However, Brooks was smart enough to realize the demand of the customers and replaced it with fiberglass. Along with, cast aluminum was used for radiator instead of brass. It helped in reducing the overall cost of production. Modified Studebaker buckets were installed in the seats of the car and it was given a cover of vinyl. As a result, Excalibur’s cost much lower compared to the models having same performance and engine capability. Chassis of Excalibur car was best in the industry. In the year 1966, Excalibur launched two new models. The first model was a roadster having advanced specifications like full fenders and running boards. The second model was a 4-seater one having "phaeton" convertibility capacity. In this year, the firm was renamed as Excalibur Automobile Corporation.

The most notable point regarding older versions of Excalibur cars is their limited numbers. Excalibur strictly focused upon limited editions and manufactured car for a confined target audience. Hence, owning an Excalibur was a style signature for many. Series II models of Excalibur made their market debut in the year 1970. These models had several advanced specifications like improved box pattern chassis, wheelbase having radius of 111 inches 4-speed manual gear box and maximum speed limit of 150 miles per hour.

Newer versions of Excalibur cars

Series III of Excalibur was launched in the year 1975. Many of the critics are of the view that series III was a modified version of Series II to make the car compatible with new emission rules. However, this series had its own sets of uniqueness too. Installation of Chevy's big-block 454 V-8 in these models made them power savers and better performers on torques. Compared to first two series of cars, third series was highly expensive. However, when you compare the sales of Series III with II and series I you will be astonished to see the significant increase in sale in spite of huge increase in price. Total number of units sold of Series I and II were 359 and 342. On the other hand, 1141 units of Excalibur III were sold over a period of five years. It means, hike in price could not block the near about 300% sales growth for Excalibur series III. Series IV was the most elegant model of Excalibur and was launched in the year 1985. Classic look, improved engine power and radius of wheelbase, elegant interior and better fuel efficiency were some of the notable features associated with the cars of this series.

The Austin-Healey 3000 Series- A Review

100 Six can be safely called as a predecessor of the Austin-Healey 3000 sports car Series. The only modifications in Austin-Healey 3000 were bigger size of engine and improved braking system. That is the reason why critics call this series as Big Halley. Big Healey formula reigned over global sports car market for more than a decade. The most noteworthy fact regarding this period is that not a single conceptual change was incorporated to any of the models of Austin-Healey 3000. These models created a massive customer base across the world and several factors and features contributed significantly in this direction.

Making its market debut in spring of 1959, Austin-Healey 3000 series was packed with several modifications and added features. Engine of Austin-Healey 3000 models might be a bit heavier than their competitive models. But, they offered more reliability and power. In the initial models of Austin-Healey 3000 series, a 2912 cc engine with 124 HP was installed. However, the power of the engine was increased to 132 HP in 1961.

Austin-Healey 3000 series in the period of inception has two models. They are BN7 and BT7 2 + 2. BN7 was a two-seater model. Each of the models had a wheelbase of 92 inches radius. Front brakes of these models were disc one while the rear ones were drums. In both these models, other specifications like gearbox, chassis and design were highly logical and better compared to their competitors.

In the year 1961 and aftermath, models of Austin-Healey 3000 Series witnessed significant changes as far as look and performance are concerned. The major modifications of 1961 were installation of an improved gearbox, and linkage. Both of them contributed towards making the selector mechanism highly direct-acting. Austin-Healey 3000 Series discarded two-seater models in the year 1962 and started producing only 2+2 models. Other additions made in this year were curvy wind shield, door windows having roll up facility and a soft top. In this year, one major modification related to the engine of the car was also made. That was the installation of twin SU carburetors. This specification reduced the heat loss capacity significantly.

In the year 1964, Austin-Healey 3000 series went through a number of changes. 3000 Mk III made its market debut in that year. Power of the engine was enhanced to 148 hp. However, the size of the engine remained the same. Dashboard of the car was restyled significantly. Wood paneling was the most appealing modification made to the dashboard. Along with center console was installed between the seats. In the later part of 1964, some major chassis alterations were done to Austin-Healey 3000 to make tits suspension friendly for long distance travel. According to some critics, MK III was the best sports car of the time period ranging from 1964 to 1968. Along with, it was the fastest one having maximum speed limit of 120 miles per hour. 1966 was the golden year as far as sales of Austin-Healey 3000 series is concerned. In this year, 5494 units of Mk III were produced and sold.

Handling Vintage Cars

Vintage cars are known for their timeless elegance and style signature. Owning a vintage car singles you out from the conventional car owners. For many, having a collection of vintage cars is hobby though it’s an expensive one. Handling a vintage care mainly includes three aspects. They are buying the car, restoring it and selling it (if required). In this article we will focus upon all the three aspects that will help you in handling vintage cars in an effective manner.

Buying a Vintage Car
At the outset, the car you have gone to buy might not look more than a heap of rust metals. At this stage, do not get annoyed as you can give it the customized look with the help of an expert mechanic and applying your creativity. You can buy vintage cars from both their owners or online and on-site dealers specializing in sale and purchase of vintage cars. According to estimates, vintage cars in possession of owners are in better position compared to that of dealers. Along with, the scope of bargaining is wider if you are buying it from the owner directly. However, before purchasing, make sure to do your homework properly. It includes uniqueness of the model, availability of spare parts and scope for customization. Along with, before making the final decision, pay attention to current condition of the car and the required investment for renovation.

Restoration process
Perhaps, it is the most complicated process of handling a vintage car. First of all, be prepared to expect the unexpected as far as the restoration process is concerned. A vintage car in a dismantled condition requires a large space for storage. Hence, check whether your garage can accommodate it or not. If there is lack of space, bring away the parts like engine, chassis, gear box and doors that need renovation to the place you will start renovation and the rest will be stored at your garage. Taking the help of a professional in the restoration process is always a wise decision to make. While renovating the car, use original parts only. However, you might face some problem here as some of the spare parts are out of production. In such a situation take the professional with you to a store that deals with secondhand parts and buy the parts which are in a comparatively better condition. Taking the perfect restoration cues is crucial in the entire restoration process. These cues include paint, color design etc. To restore the cues in a perfect manner you need to search extensively on the above aspects of the model. You can get enough material regarding it on internet.

Selling a vintage car
If such a situation crops up, first of all clean your car properly. Make sure to change the oil and service the car before showing it to a prospective customer. Try to collect as much information as you can from different sources related to the model and its uniqueness. It helps you in answering the queries of the customer in a better manner. Always keep the asking price and the minimum price below which you will not sell the car in mind.

How to procure tickets in cheap flights to India

Apart from a higher ROI business destination, India is gaining popularity as a hot vacationing and holidaying spot at an increasing rate. There are several reasons behind the increased popularity of India as a holidaying destination. It is the land of several tourist attractions, beaches, temples and locations endowed with scenic natural beauty. Another important factor that is contributing significantly in this regard is cheap flights to India.
Compared to the last decade flight tickets to India have slashed down significantly. That is making India a combo holiday package of attractive sightseeing and low pressure on wallet. Finding tickets on cheap flights to India is not a herculean task if you follow some simple tips. There are several travel portals dealing with sale of flight tickets to India. First of all, sign up in minimum 3-4 credible portals of them. Along with, sign up for RSS feed of all major air lines that have flight facility to India. Through this way, you can collate information regarding special offers and discounts from the comfort of home.

There are several travel agencies who specialize in booking tickets to India and your accommodation facility there. If you are not visiting relatives at India, you have to stay in a hotel. Hence, is not a wise idea to book air ticket and hotel from a single agent who will definitely try or offer you tickets on cheap flights to India? While booking flight ticket to India never wait till the last minute. If you do so, there is a bright chance of paying more. Along with, avoid (if that not necessary) traveling on weekends and major festival times (both in your country and India). According to estimates, price of air tickets to India is generally cheaper on Tuesday and Wednesday. Hence plan your travel accordingly.

Try to book your ticket for cheap flights to India from the travel agent or portal you are familiar with. They offer discounts to regular customers. Along with, if you are on a family vacation and booking tickets in bulk, you can ask the agent for discounts. Bargaining is the best key to buy air tickets at a comparatively lower price. Do not hesitate to bargain with your travel agent as much as you can.
Cheap flights to India are not a myth anymore. Hence, do not miss the chance to explore this beautiful country at a budget-friendly price.