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Cars and Coffee Event Bans Mustangs, Chargers, Camaros

As a man nearing his late 50s, I remember that muscle car shows were pretty tame.  You’d pull into a parking lot or a fairgrounds or some other venue.  Now, even back then, events like Van Nuys boulevard were something else.  There was usually a lot of revving and the occasional burnout and maybe a pull from one light to the next light.

Car Shows and cruises have now, today, devolved into free-for-alls.  It’s not fair to place all of the blame on one certain group (ex. young , or a certain race of people ) because there’s plenty of blame to go around.

Every Saturday I go to South  OC Cars and Coffee in San Clemente, California.  There are more than 2,000 cars every Saturday and it takes 2 hours to get them all parked. This has show has been going on for a few years after all the others were shut down because of miscreants who have no respect.

How has this event survived? . Well, the  Head guy is a hard-charging Aussie who used to run a bar. His whole family is involved and is backed up by about 30 volunteers who watch every access point to the property.  The landlord of the property (which is an outlet mall for big brands) has allowed this event to continue because the Show Staff are diligent about discipline. No matter your age, your race,  or the make and model, if you rev, speed, do burnouts, or trigger your pops and bangs map, you’re perma banned.

And there have been many perma bans.   The offenders range from seventeen-year-olds to septuagenarians.

 

The types of cars that offend the most are definitely BMW, Infinitis G35, and any late model Dodge vehicle with a V8 and in some cases, V6s.  Behind that group are the late-model Mustangs and Camaros.   The owners of classic muscle cars have never seem to step out of line.   We also have some owners of exotic cars who feel the urge to entertain teenagers by ripping  out of the exit.

It makes sense that the biggest offenders are the cars with rear-wheel drive and high horsepower.  This is why we don’t have problems with people who drive a Prius.  It’s a problem all over the country.

I frequently travel to European countries for business and I always take in a car show whenever possible.  For the most part, people are more respectful.  In 2023  I will  have attended 11 car shows in The Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, France, Sweden, England and in Italy.

Then this week, I saw this article by The Drive.

It showcases  the reason such a decision has been rendered.

IAre Challengers OK, though?t

Self-described as the “most prominent gathering of its kind,” Coffee and Cars, a car meetup group out of Texas, has banned several models of muscle cars from its events, citing unruly behavior by drivers. In a post on social media, the group said that “all Mustang[s], Chargers & Camaros” are not allowed at its events for the time being, citing “burnouts and revving” as the actions that led to the decision.

 

it seems like this is a reaction to a series of incidents, not just the alleged behavior of muscle car owners at the group’s most recent event on November 4th, which featured British sports cars and supercars. In a post on Instagram, the group stated “We don’t want this gathering shut down as we have some special surprises planned. This is not the time or place to do it! Thank you for those who understand.” In this post, the group doesn’t specifically mention what drivers shouldn’t be doing, which implies it’s well known what the bad behavior is. The group also shared that all of its events may become invitation-only if the behavior continues.

Reckless driving and actions by drivers have shut down car meets before. Many car meets often have law enforcement stationed at the exits of the event area to discourage such stunts, although revving an engine is not necessarily against the law.

Of course, the denials came flooding in.  Posts on Instagram and other platforms have led to backlash. Drivers of the aforementioned vehicles as well as others decried the decision as everything from a “hateful [action] against domestic car drivers” to the event organizers simply being “soft”.”Soft’?   Some might say, these are the words of an entitled  enthusiasts who can’t take responsibility.

The fact of the matter. is that most parking lots are owned by private owners. As such, whoever has permission to control the comings and goings has the authority to deny access to the property.  Certainly, miscreants who dont play by the rules should absolutely be banned from access.

Here  in Southern Californi, several Cars and Coffee events have been canceled. The famous Malibu  Country Mart  event died in November of 2022. Why?  People couldn’t behave even with their six and seven-digit supercars.   The Irvine Cars and Coffee also died in 2014.   So  did the Crystal Cove event, for all the same reasons.

I could go on and on. The only way to stop these events from being shut down,  is to make sure event organizers enforce a zero tolerance for misbehaving.  It’s s no secret that the governments around the world are itching to ban gasoline cars permanently, and of course, bad players ruin the image of those who enjoy their cars  as a hobby.

 

 

 

 

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Top 10 Fastest Muscle Cars

Muscle cars have been a symbol of American automotive ingenuity and raw power for decades. These high-performance vehicles have captured the hearts of enthusiasts worldwide, with their aggressive styling and jaw-dropping speed. In this comprehensive exploration, we will delve into the world of muscle cars to discover the ten fastest specimens that have left an indelible mark on automotive history. Whwn I ws young, when I saw any of these cars, rolling those lightweight steeelie wheels, you knew the owner was a drag racer.

  1. 1970 Plymouth Hemi ‘Cuda

The 1970 Plymouth Hemi ‘Cuda stands out as one of the most iconic and powerful muscle cars ever produced. Its heart is the legendary 426 Hemi V8 engine, which produced a staggering 425 horsepower. This immense power, combined with a lightweight design, allowed the ‘Cuda to rocket from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.6 seconds, making it a dominant force on the drag strip and the open road. It still sits at the top of the list of Top 10 Fastest Muscle cars.

  1. 1969 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

Chevrolet’s 1969 Camaro ZL1 is another legendary muscle car known for its incredible speed. Equipped with an all-aluminum 427-cubic-inch V8 engine, it delivered 430 horsepower and could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 4.1 seconds. The limited production run of just 69 ZL1s makes it a highly sought-after collector’s item. Definitely one of my personal favorites on this list.

  1. 1967 Shelby GT500

Carroll Shelby’s legendary GT500 variant of the Ford Mustang was an instant classic. The 1967 Shelby GT500 featured a 428-cubic-inch Police Interceptor V8 engine, producing 355 horsepower. With a 0 to 60 mph time of 6.2 seconds, it was one of the fastest muscle cars of its era and remains an icon in the world of automotive performance.

  1. 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454

The 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454 was a brute of a muscle car. It packed a 454-cubic-inch V8 engine under the hood, churning out 450 horsepower and reaching 0 to 60 mph in around 6.1 seconds. Its muscular design and powerful engine made it a favorite among muscle car enthusiasts.

  1. 1969 Pontiac GTO Judge

The 1969 Pontiac GTO Judge was a distinctive muscle car with its bold styling and high-performance attributes. It featured a 400-cubic-inch V8 engine producing 366 horsepower and achieved a 0 to 60 mph time of approximately 6.5 seconds. The Judge earned its name by delivering serious speed and performance on the streets.

  1. 1970 Oldsmobile 442 W-30

Oldsmobile’s 1970 442 W-30 was a true sleeper car. It featured a 455-cubic-inch V8 engine, generating 370 horsepower and achieving a 0 to 60 mph time of around 5.4 seconds. The unassuming appearance of the 442 W-30 made it a surprise contender in the muscle car arena.

  1. 1969 Dodge Charger Daytona

The 1969 Dodge Charger Daytona was not only a head-turner with its distinctive aerodynamic design, but it also packed a punch under the hood. Its 440-cubic-inch V8 engine produced 375 horsepower, and it could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 5.7 seconds. The Charger Daytona’s innovative design made it a force to be reckoned with on the NASCAR circuit.

  1. 1970 Buick GSX

Buick’s 1970 GSX was a formidable muscle car with its powerful 455-cubic-inch V8 engine, delivering 360 horsepower. This allowed the GSX to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in around 5.5 seconds. While Buick may not be the first name that comes to mind in the muscle car world, the GSX proved that they could compete with the best.

  1. 1966 Shelby Cobra 427

The Shelby Cobra 427 is an American classic known for its impressive speed and performance. Powered by a massive 427-cubic-inch V8 engine, it unleashed 425 horsepower and achieved a 0 to 60 mph time of approximately 4.2 seconds. The Cobra 427’s timeless design and exceptional power have solidified its place in muscle car history.

  1. 1970 Ford Mustang Boss 429

The 1970 Ford Mustang Boss 429 was a high-performance masterpiece. Equipped with a 429-cubic-inch V8 engine, it produced 375 horsepower and could reach 0 to 60 mph in around 6.5 seconds. Its limited production numbers and association with the iconic Boss name make it a highly coveted collector’s item. This is definitely my favorite. All because of this car

Pop's Toy
Pop’s Toy

Muscle cars have been an integral part of American automotive culture, and these ten fastest muscle cars represent the pinnacle of speed, power, and performance. Each of these vehicles left an indelible mark on the industry, solidifying their status as icons in the world of high-performance automobiles. Whether it’s the Hemi ‘Cuda’s raw power, the Camaro ZL1’s rare aluminum heart, or the Shelby Cobra 427’s timeless appeal, these muscle cars continue to captivate enthusiasts and inspire a new generation of high-performance vehicles. The legacy of these cars lives on, serving as a testament to the enduring fascination with speed and power on four wheels.

 

Ultimately, the 1969 Camaro ZL1 was the TopFastest Muscle Car

 

 

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5 Things You Should Know Before You Buy Wheels for Your Car

 

Choosing the right set of wheels for your car is a decision that can significantly impact both the aesthetics and performance of your vehicle. While many drivers may primarily focus on factors such as design and cost when buying wheels, there is much more to consider before making your purchase. In this article, we will explore five crucial things you should know before buying wheels for your car to help you make an informed decision that suits your vehicle’s needs, your driving style, and your budget. So hear are 5 Things You Should Know Before You Buy Wheels for Your Car.

 

  1. Wheel Size and Fitment

When it comes to choosing the right wheels for your car, size matters – and not just for aesthetics. Wheel size and fitment play a crucial role in how your vehicle performs, looks, and handles. Here’s what you need to know:

1.1. Wheel Diameter: The wheel’s diameter is measured in inches and is a primary determinant of the overall look of your car. Smaller wheels can make your vehicle look sportier and provide better acceleration, while larger wheels can give a more luxurious and aggressive appearance. However, be cautious about choosing wheels that are too large, as they can negatively affect your car’s ride quality and handling.

1.2. Bolt Pattern: The bolt pattern refers to the number of bolts and their arrangement that secure the wheel to the hub. Ensure that the wheels you choose have the correct bolt pattern to match your car’s hub. An incompatible bolt pattern will prevent the wheels from fitting your car.

1.3. Offset and Backspacing: Offset and backspacing are essential factors in wheel fitment. The offset measures how far the wheel’s mounting surface is from the centerline. Positive offset means the mounting surface is closer to the car’s exterior, while negative offset brings it closer to the inside. Backspacing measures the distance from the mounting surface to the back edge of the wheel. Choosing the right offset and backspacing is vital for proper wheel alignment and tire clearance.

1.4. Tire Size Compatibility: Ensure that the wheels you choose can accommodate the appropriate tire size for your car. Incorrect tire sizes can impact your vehicle’s speedometer accuracy and handling.

1.5. Wheel Width: The width of the wheel affects how the tire sits on it. Wider wheels provide more contact with the road and better grip, but they can also affect your car’s fuel economy and ride comfort.

  1. Material and Construction

The material and construction of your wheels are significant factors that determine their durability, weight, and performance. Most wheels are made of one of the following materials:

2.1. Steel: Steel wheels are common and affordable. They are durable and can handle rough roads well. However, they tend to be heavier than other materials, which can negatively impact fuel efficiency and handling.

2.2. Alloy: Alloy wheels, often made from a combination of aluminum and other metals, are lighter than steel wheels. This reduction in weight can lead to improved handling, acceleration, and fuel efficiency. They also provide a more polished and modern appearance.

2.3. Forged: Forged wheels are made from a single piece of alloy material, which makes them incredibly strong and lightweight. These wheels are often the choice for high-performance and sports cars due to their exceptional durability and weight advantages.

2.4. Carbon Fiber: Carbon fiber wheels are relatively new to the market, and they are incredibly lightweight and strong. They are a top choice for exotic and high-performance cars but can be quite expensive.

Consider your driving needs and budget when selecting the material and construction of your wheels. For everyday driving, alloy wheels are a popular choice, striking a balance between performance, aesthetics, and cost. If you seek high-performance or have a more substantial budget, forged or carbon fiber wheels might be worth considering.

  1. Weight and Performance

The weight of your wheels can significantly impact your car’s performance. Lighter wheels offer several advantages:

3.1. Improved Acceleration: Lighter wheels require less energy to get moving, leading to quicker acceleration.

3.2. Enhanced Handling: Reduced unsprung weight (weight not supported by the car’s suspension) allows your suspension to work more effectively, resulting in better handling and a smoother ride.

3.3. Better Fuel Efficiency: Lighter wheels reduce the overall weight of your vehicle, which can translate into improved fuel efficiency.

3.4. Reduced Braking Distance: Lighter wheels can contribute to shorter braking distances, enhancing safety.

However, it’s essential to strike a balance between weight and strength. Extremely lightweight wheels can be more vulnerable to damage from road hazards and potholes. Therefore, when selecting wheels, consider your driving conditions and priorities. If you value performance and handling, lightweight alloy or forged wheels might be a good choice. For rugged or off-road driving, stronger steel wheels could be more suitable.

  1. Wheel Finishes and Aesthetics

The aesthetic aspect of your wheels is a significant consideration for many car enthusiasts. The finish of your wheels can complement your car’s appearance and reflect your personal style. Here are some popular wheel finishes to consider:

4.1. Painted Wheels: These are typically the most affordable option and come in a variety of colors and finishes. Painted wheels can provide a clean and polished look.

4.2. Chrome Wheels: Chrome plating provides a bright and shiny finish. Chrome wheels can add a touch of luxury and elegance to your car’s appearance.

4.3. Polished Wheels: Polished wheels have a reflective, mirror-like finish. They require regular maintenance to keep their shine but can look stunning.

4.4. Matte or Satin Wheels: These finishes offer a more understated and contemporary appearance. They are often used in high-performance and sports car applications.

4.5. Custom Finishes: Some manufacturers offer custom paint options, allowing you to match your wheels to your car’s color or create a unique look.

It’s important to consider the maintenance requirements of your chosen wheel finish. Chrome and polished wheels can be high-maintenance, requiring regular cleaning to maintain their appearance. On the other hand, matte or satin finishes are more forgiving in terms of upkeep.

  1. Cost and Budget

The cost of wheels can vary widely based on factors such as size, material, construction, brand, and finish. It’s crucial to establish a budget before you start shopping for wheels, as it will help narrow down your options and prevent overspending. Consider not only the cost of the wheels themselves but also any additional expenses, such as tires, installation, and maintenance.

5.1. Wheel Cost: The cost of a set of wheels can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Higher-quality materials, larger sizes, and unique designs tend to come with a higher price tag. Keep in mind that you’ll need to buy a set of four (or five for a spare), so multiply the cost by the number of wheels you need.

5.2. Tire Cost: Don’t forget to factor in the cost of tires. The tire size you choose can significantly impact the price, and high-performance or specialty tires may be more expensive.

5.3. Installation and Maintenance: You’ll need to budget for the installation of your wheels and tires, including mounting, balancing, and alignment. Additionally, consider ongoing maintenance costs for cleaning and upkeep of your wheels.

5.4. Quality and Brand: Recognize that reputable brands often come with a higher price tag, but they may offer better build quality and warranties. Balance the brand’s reputation with your budget.

 

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5 Crazy Reasons Why used cars are getting cheaper

The automotive industry is constantly in flux, with market dynamics evolving due to various factors. One such intriguing shift in recent times has been the decline in used car prices. For years, the conventional wisdom held that used cars, while cheaper than their new counterparts, still retained their value fairly well. However, over the past few years, we have witnessed a noticeable decline in the prices of pre-owned vehicles. In this article, we’ll delve into the key reasons behind this trend and explore the implications it has for both buyers and sellers in the used car market.

In short,  used car prices are all over the place.

1. The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020 had a profound impact on the global economy, and the automotive industry was no exception. As the pandemic took hold, people’s mobility patterns changed dramatically. Lockdowns, remote work, and financial uncertainty caused many individuals to reevaluate their transportation needs. As a result, numerous consumers who might have otherwise purchased new cars opted to delay or forgo those purchases altogether. This created a backlog of new vehicles, as production continued despite reduced demand.

With new car inventories piling up, dealerships and manufacturers were incentivized to offer significant discounts and incentives to move their stock. This, in turn, led to a cascading effect on the used car market. As the price gap between new and used cars narrowed, the demand for pre-owned vehicles decreased, causing prices to drop.

  1. Supply Chain Disruptions

The automotive industry relies heavily on a complex global supply chain, and disruptions to this network can have far-reaching consequences. During the COVID-19 pandemic, supply chain issues were exacerbated as factories shut down, production slowed, and various parts became scarce. These disruptions impacted new car production, leading to a reduction in new vehicle availability and inflated new car prices.

For potential car buyers, this meant that the price differential between new and used cars shrank even further. In response, used car buyers had less incentive to invest in pre-owned vehicles, putting downward pressure on their prices.

  1. Reduced Demand for Commuting

The pandemic accelerated a trend that had been slowly gaining ground for years: remote work. With companies adopting flexible working arrangements, many people were no longer commuting daily. As a result, some individuals who used to rely on a personal vehicle for daily transportation found themselves using their cars significantly less. In some cases, people even sold their cars, choosing instead to rely on alternatives like public transportation, ride-sharing, or cycling.

This reduced demand for daily commuting vehicles directly affected the used car market. The declining need for a second vehicle or a larger, gas-guzzling car led to decreased demand for certain types of used cars, particularly sedans and SUVs, pushing their prices down.

  1. Rental Car Industry Impact

The rental car industry, which often sells its vehicles to used car dealers after a few years of service, played a role in the declining used car prices. The pandemic hit the travel and tourism industry hard, causing a sharp decline in rental car demand. As a result, rental car companies faced the financial pressure to downsize their fleets and reduce expenses. This led to a surge in the supply of rental cars being sold in the used car market.

The influx of these relatively new, low-mileage vehicles put additional pressure on used car prices. With an abundance of options available, buyers were able to find newer cars at competitive prices, further driving down the value of older models.

  1. Increasing Lease Returns

Many individuals opt to lease new cars rather than buy them outright. Leasing has become an increasingly popular option because it allows consumers to drive a new vehicle every few years without the long-term financial commitment of a traditional purchase. After the lease period expires, these vehicles typically reenter the used car market.

As the popularity of leasing has grown over the years, more and more lease returns have flooded the used car market. The influx of relatively new, well-maintained vehicles has not only increased the supply but also intensified competition among sellers, driving used car prices down.

  1. EVs and Changing Market Preferences

Electric vehicles (EVs) have been steadily gaining popularity as consumers become more environmentally conscious and governments push for cleaner transportation options. As the market for EVs grows, used gasoline-powered vehicles are facing decreasing demand.

The shift towards EVs has had a twofold impact on used car prices. First, gasoline and diesel cars have lost some of their appeal, leading to a reduced demand for these vehicles and subsequently lower prices. Second, as more EVs enter the used car market, they compete with traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, potentially contributing to their decline in value.

  1. Overvaluation and Depreciation

Over the years, used car prices had been on the rise, with some vehicles reaching historically high values. This overvaluation created an unsustainable situation. Eventually, the laws of depreciation caught up, and used car prices began to correct.

Depreciation is a natural process in which a vehicle loses value over time due to factors like wear and tear, mileage, and aging. The rapid rise in used car prices was, in part, a correction to the previously inflated market. As buyers became more price-sensitive and realized that they could get better deals on newer vehicles, used car prices began to fall.

  1. Financial Strain on Consumers

The economic uncertainty brought about by the pandemic and other factors has led to financial strain for many households. Unemployment and reduced income have forced some individuals to tighten their budgets and cut back on non-essential expenses. For many, buying a new or used car has taken a backseat to more immediate financial concerns.

This financial strain has contributed to the decline in used car prices by reducing demand. As potential buyers delay their purchases or opt for more affordable alternatives, used car prices have trended downward.

So Why Pick Up Trucks Are So Expensive? Opportunity for Buyers

A confluence of factors, including the rise of all new vehicle prices. But, essentially, pickup trucks are much better vehicles than they once were. And demand for them — stemming from fashion or necessity — has never been higher.

Manufacturers are now loading all these pickups with luxury features that were previously limited to luxury cars. Not long ago, pickups were for workers or for active families.  Today, most pickups on the roads today are only occcupied by one person: The driver.

With gas hovering within site of $7 a gallon it’s only a matter of time before the Pickup truck collapses, fueled further by outrageous MSRP .
However, the most desirable cars will be slow to devaluate. So many are finding that they have to buy an older version of the car they wanted in order to stay within their budget.
A case in point:  A friend of mine askfor my recommendation for his 21 year old son.  I recommended a Toyota Corolla (Toyota is always at the top of my list).  However he  wanted to buy a reliable small car that wasn’t too old.  A 2017 base Corolla with 130.000 miles was listed for $10,000. He had to go all the way back to 2002  for a Corolla he coulda afford.
So, as prices start cool down, remember that there are people who still can’t afford  a car even with softening prices.