Saturday, February 18, 2012

787B? In Forza 4? Really?

Looking back at the 787B's progress
at Circuit De La Sarthe


Now, if you're one of the Forza Motorsport 4 players who is Japanese, you might be start asking how did the Mazda 787B appeared on Forza Motorsport 4 via the February ALMS Pack, which is on sale now. Yes, this Le Mans race car powered by a rotary engine is highly sacred to the car enthusiasts and most toy and model companies created several 787B diecast models for them to waste their money at. Of course, most video games featured the 787B but at Forza Motorsport 4, this is their first. We're very sure most Japanese FM4 players are getting peculiar about the 787B's Forza 4 debut appearance but this is due to inconsistent public demand by most Forza Faithfuls worldwide.

The one and only rotary engine-powered racer
is historical

Because the history about the birth of the 787B and its first and only win at the 1991 24 Hours of Le Mans is too long and too boring for you to read, I should explain my experience about the 787B on Forza Motorsport 4. Anyway, as I bought this car for about 2,200,000 CR, this is probably one of the best sounding LMPs I have ever heard. Many Forza Faithfuls would be lucky enough to drive this and I always wanted to drive one of these on FM4. The power of the Wankel rotary engine is just absolutely staggering. When I put my feet to the accelerator (or my finger to the RT button), the R26B rotary engine bellows and it feels like I'm back at 1991, the year when Mazda got its first and only win at Le Mans! While the 787B is stationary, it sounds like a bike starting up. That's what makes the 787B so special not only because of its beautiful sound of the R26B rotary engine but this car always has a kindred spirit, setting the template on other rotary powered production cars such as the RX-7 and the RX-8. Sadly, those rotary-powered engines are becoming extinct and rotary engines are becoming a mirage from the past. That makes me very sad. 

Wonder when will they feature this on Top Gear?

Because production of the Mazda RX-8 comes to a complete end this Summer, I can't believe we are going to say goodbye again to the rotary engine that once fueled the "Zoom-Zoom" phenomenon but it doesn't matter. It's important to leave something behind for future generations, especially when most Japanese Forza Motorsport 4 are getting content on playing with the Mazda 787B and enjoy it as if they've enjoyed the 787B from other video games. After summing it up, I found out that the 787B is the best LMP featured on Forza Motorsport 4's February ALMS Pack, rather than the Audi R18 TDi of the present because the Mazda 787B is the only rotary-powered LMP to remember for.

World's largest BMW showroom in Abu Dhabi!

BMW Abu Dhabi showroom


It's Abu Dhabi's time to shine for the world's largest BMW showroom ever built by Abu Dhabi Motors. Abu Dhabi Motors, certified distributor of BMW vehicles in UAE, built this impressive showroom that measures 35,000 square meters and it took three years to built it when this project began in 2009, costing about 62 million Euros. BMW Group said that the Middle East plays an important role for sales because last year, they sold more cars. 

Not just a dealership, this is a shopping mall selling BMW and Mini merchandises as well as original parts and accessories. Wait, there's even a private cinema for new car releases, a cafe, F1 racing sim, and a playground that provides the best customer experience. Wow, wish I could go there...

BMW M5 F10 tuning by G-Power

G-Power M5 F10


So, it begins. The BMW M5 F10 gets tuned by someone who specializes on tuning BMW cars to the max, G-Power. From here, the 4.4L V8 BiTurbo engine gets tuned into 640HP of power and 777Nm, thanks to the updated ECU and custom exhaust system. This will go 0-60 in 3.9 seconds. For enhanced handling, it provided some coil-over suspension system with nine selectable settings along with the new braking system and 21-inch rims wrapped with Michelin Pilot Super Sport Tires.

Welcome Back: 2008 Aston Martin DBS

Keira Knightley in Puff Diddley's jewerly


The interior is all marvelous. The gear lever
really looks like a Power Ranger's leg

Aston Martin claims that the hardcore DBS is a 6-litre hard-driving lightweight thoroughbred but in Top Gear's point of view, it's not a thoroughbred but this is the best Aston Martin ever made despite it's not as fast as the hardcore version of the Aston Martin V12 Vanquish in the straights, not as prettier as the DB9, and it's more expensive than the DB9. Those Top Gear wazzocks rate this car as "UNCOOL" (See Top Gear Cool Wall app in your iPhone) and described that the Space Shuttle looks a bit rubbish in comparison. Who cares? This Aston Martin was been featured in two Bond films from Casino Royale (2006) to Quantum of Solace (2008) as the car of choice for Bond actor, Daniel Craig.

When it lapped round the Top Gear Test Track courtesy of The Stig, it hailed as the fastest Aston Martin on the track with the lap time of 1:23.93, eclipsing the likes of the Aston Martin Vanquish S and the DB9. Even the Aston Martin newcomer, the Virage, couldn't fight off because as James May told, the DB9 has 450HP, the DBS has 510HP, and the new Virage has 490HP. Get it?

The Aston Martin DBS V12 is my personal favorite because of Bond movie appearances and I'm glad it's back on Forza Motorsport 4. I like this more than the new Virage but I'm afraid that I found myself climbing out after a short while and summing up the car although I accidentally become Daniel Craig.

It is a very likable, very brilliant Aston but let's be honest, if you pull outside the casino in Montenegro in one of these, the doorman, I'm afraid, will ask you to go away. Still, Bond loses it all but Bond wins it all.

"Asahan Mo"

What just happened on the February 17, 2012 episode of Bubble Gang?

- This doctor seems to be very serious...at laughing on his patient's serious condition

- Those Bubble Gags let their men get their ladies out in the car after their date

- From Bubble Gang, comes a story where the protagonist is actually the antagonist and her name is Antonietta

Antonietta


- Bubble Gang does SkyFlakes by spoofing this commercial as SpyFlakes. Dahil maaasahan ka ng pamilya, asahan mo ng SpyFlakes.

Bubble Gang does SkyFlakes


- Bureche is making some prank calls

Bureche prank calls


- Ogie Alcasid provides us some Kontra-Bagot Tips to humiliate others...

- Feels like they're holding nothing but this imagination's getting really to hurt.

- IyoTube in High (Forever You and Me)

- Meet the trash-talking family who spend most of the time, trash-talking and doing bad things, except for one who's doing good.

Friday, February 17, 2012

Modified Audi Q7 by Project Kahn

Project Kahn Audi Q7


Another modification lashed out from the Project Kahn portfolio and this time it's in the form of the Audi Q7 flagship SUV. So, what did Project Kahn do to the Audi Q7? Outside, you can expect ground effects kit, wheel arch extensions, front fender vents, side skirts, roof spoiler, and a rear apron. Also, it comes with Project Kahn's very own 22-inch RSX rims colored in Gunmetal Grey.

Welcome Back: 2009 Ferrari California

This California is modified to do some
Nurburgring action


Vicki Butler-Henderson's right. When the roof opens,
the back does look like J-Lo after her visit to the pie shop.

Feels like I'm in Tagaytay...

Ferrari's California is definitely the first Ferrari that comes with a hard-top convertible. Not just that, it is the first with the fuel-injected 4.3L V8 engine that produces 453HP of power and 357lb-ft of torque. However, the Ferrari California is seriously uncool if you're a bloke but it's cool if you're a girl. Just ask Fifth Gear's Vicki Butler-Henderson. In Jeremy Clarkson's 2009 DVD titled "Clarkson: Duel", there was a part where which British motoring TV show has the best drivers. Representing Top Gear, there's Jeremy Clarkson and The Stig, and they're pitting against Fifth Gear's Tiff Needell and Vicki Butler-Henderson. The first round pits Tiff and Stig on their Hyundai compacts and this part reveals one of Stig's weaknesses. That is that when The Stig saw a girl with a gun (particularly Vicki holding the paintball gun), he gets to a standstill, resulting to a humiliating loss. On the second round, Vicki Butler-Henderson drives the Ferrari California while Jeremy Clarkson drives the Aston Martin DBS Volante. Because this is Britain, rain is likely to occur and before they race, they have to close the roof but thanks to The Stig's distraction, Vicki had a three-second start. When the race began and after the roofs are closed, the rivalry between Clarkson and Vicki Butler-Henderson fueled their fanatical hatred during the race. The race ended in a dead heat. On the third and final round, The Stig and Tiff Needell will race using the bicycle but unfortunately, The Stig doesn't know how to ride the bike, resulting a win to Fifth Gear.

Just one thing, this Ferrari California was featured in Top Gear Korea, where presenter Kim Jin Pyo is chauffeuring actress Kang So-Ra after her gig at the 2011 Busan International Film Fest. When Kim Jin-Pyo full throttled the California, Kang So-Ra's gown's blowing away due to the speed of the California.



Anyway, enough talk right now because the California returned on Forza Motorsport 4 and it's part of the game's AutoVista feature where you can explore more about this car and hear Jeremy Clarkson's comments about the Ferrari California. Maybe this car does have a point...

Toyota to produce Camry in Taiwan

2012 Toyota Camry


It was announced that Toyota will produce the all new "hybrid-only" Toyota Camry AVV50 with its Taiwan joint partner, Kuozui Motors, Ltd. It will take place at the Kuanying plant in Taiwan. Production of the Taiwan-spec Toyota Camry Hybrid began in February 15, 2012 and it will produce about 7,000 units.

PRESS RELEASE:


Toyota 'Camry Hybrid' Production and Sales Start in Taiwan

Toyota City, Japan, February 16, 2012—Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) announces that its production affiliate in Taiwan, Kuozui Motors, Ltd. (Kuozui), today marked the start of production and sales of the "Camry Hybrid" in Taiwan.

Production of the Camry Hybrid at Kuozui's Kuanying Plant in Taiwan's Taoyuan County began on February 15, making the plant Toyota's seventh hybrid-vehicle production site outside Japan.  Initial annual production is set at approximately 7,000 vehicles, to be the exclusive supply of the domestic market.

Sales of the vehicle, ranging in price from 1,069,000 to 1,399,000 Taiwan dollars, began today.

Marking the development, Kuozui President Haruaki Hoshino said: "We are very proud to begin production of the state-of-the-art Camry Hybrid at our Kuanying Plant.  With environmental and energy-conservation consciousness in Taiwan rising every year, we hope to supply the Taiwanese market with as many hybrids as possible."

TMC considers addressing environmental issues to be one of its most important management tasks and is actively working to promote hybrids and other environment-friendly vehicles.  At the end of 2011, global cumulative sales of TMC-produced hybrid vehicles reached approximately 3.6 million units.

Thursday, February 16, 2012

Mazda CX-5 (KEEFW/KEEAW/KE2FW/KE2AW)

The success of the facelifted Mazda Demio and Mazda Axela really shows that the new SKYACTIV Technology really provides exceptional fuel economy without sacrificing uncompromising performance. This technology made Mazdas as menthol fresh as a Vicks Inhaler except that now that Mazda had made this...


2013 Mazda CX-5


This is the Mazda CX-5, the most compact yet sparkling new Mazda ever made. This is the first production Mazda that comes with the brand's new design philosophy called KODO -Soul of Motion- as seen on the Shinari Concept. This is the first that come with the new SKYACTIV-D clean diesel engine, first that come with the new SKYACTIV-BODY for excellent rigidity with a lightweight body, first that comes with the SKYACTIV-CHASSIS for superb cornering and finally, the first to come with a system similar to Volvo's City Safety and Subaru's Eyesight ver. 2 system and they called it Smart City Brake Support that automatically stops the car when it seeks an incoming obstacle.

Because this is the first that features Mazda's new KODO (é­‚å‹•)-Soul of Motion- design language, the new CX-5 is heavily inspired from the Mazda Minagi concept as seen from the 2011 Geneva Motor Show. This look combines the expression of energy pulsing throughout the vehicle with the keen agility to move about freely and nimbly. The Mazda CX-5 expresses the image of a cheetah as it stands with its weight poised on its hind legs, ready to lunge at its prey. It's very intimidating, though.


2013 Mazda CX-5 interior


On the interior, the new Mazda CX-5 has a deep, longitudinally stretched design that resembles a cockpit and produces a sense of forward momentum. On the passenger's point of view, the instrument panel looks ample and solid. Although, it looks smaller than the CX-7 it replaces, it still carries up to five passengers and the rear seats can be folded for spacious situations. Because most Mazda models with SKYACTIV Technology do come with the "intelligent-Drive Master" (i-DM), the Mazda CX-5 has these. The i-DM is the world's first driver aid that supports enjoyable driving while encouraging a driving style that enhances passenger comfort and improves fuel economy. It provides you an overall score based on your driving experience and it gives you some practical advice before you can get off the CX-5. Good mark for Mazda, there.


2013 Mazda CX-5 interior


SKYACTIV Technology promises optimized fuel economy and uncompromising performance, so that's why the Mazda CX-5 has the best of both worlds. First, the 2.0 liter SKYACTIV-G i-stop engine (PE-VPS) engine produces 155PS of power and 196Nm of torque. This is equipped on the 20C and 20S 2WD variants and it provides them 16km/L of fuel economy, making it more efficient than its key rival, the Mitsubishi RVR. For the first time in Mazda history and it's available only on the CX-5 XD (Cross-D) variants is the brand-new 2.2 liter SKYACTIV-D i-stop (SH-VPTS) Common Rail diesel engine that produces 175PS of power and 420Nm of torque. It promises a record-breaking fuel economy of 18.6km/L. Depending on the variant, the new CX-5 comes with an improved 4WD for all round driving with fuel economy of 15.6km/L for the 2.0L petrol variant and 18.0km/L for the 2.2L diesel engine. Most variants do come with the 6-speed SKYACTIV-DRIVE transmission that has good fuel economy, easy start up, direct feel, and smooth shifting, ideal for the world market.

The Mazda CX-5 is the first Mazda to come with the all new Smart City Brake Support that uses a laser sensor to detect a vehicle or obstacle in front and automatically reduces the extent of the brake rotor travel to quicken braking operation. If the driver fails to brake, SCBS automatically activates the brakes and reduces the engine output at the same time. It's like what the Volvo S60 and the Subaru Impreza Sport/G4 does.

The new Mazda CX-5 comes in six exterior colors; Zeal Red Mica, Sky Blue Mica, Velocity Red Mica, Aluminum Metallic, Black Mica, and Crystal White Pearl Mica.

My Comment:
First Mazda to obtain the KODO design language. First Mazda to have SKYACTIV-CHASSIS. First Mazda to have SKYACTIV-D. First Mazda to have SKYACTIV-BODY. And first Mazda to have Smart City Brake Support. With pricing begin at 2,050,000 Japanese Yen, consider this your first because the CX-5 is the best of both worlds. Is it just me or are we underpaid? Ah, but there's a bit of a problem. Nope, sorry, The Mazda CX-5's not coming to the Philippines because SKYACTIV technology is not fit for the Philippine market. Sorry but that's FGP-Mazda's rule, and also the Euro 2 compliant policy.

Photo: Mazda Motor Corporation

Those Pommy Bas.....

2012 Honda Civic


Ahem. Obviously, they picked up their gauntlet, so welcome, everybody, to the ninth-generation, NOT FOR JAPAN, Honda Civic. This is the kind of Honda we can call on. The country's first ECON switch for enhanced fuel economy, the 1.8L i-VTEC that powered the old FD Civic that was died in 2010, the 5-speed automatic transmission, i-MiD display that allows you to use your pic as a wallpaper, cruise control, lots of it.

So, it's here, how much is this? This one costs 1,074,000 Philippine Pesos.

Room 3181 at Seattle Central

Hi! It's me, Leopaul.

On Room 3181 of the Seattle Central Community College (the study room) There was actually a different kind of wall that really won't let you into trouble.

In old times, most teenagers commonly using markers to vandalize the walls of school property and the authorities are getting mad at those who did it. On that Room 3181, there was a wall that you can write whatever you want but you can clean it with a cloth. This is some kind of Engineering Connection. A special kind of wall that was inherited from the white board. I find this wall very special because that wall will not turn me into a vandal for writing on walls. It's very convenient though but I have to tell you that only water-based markers will work on Room 3181's wonder wall because put that with a permanent marker and that's vandalism to you.

Now who would have thought of that kind of Engineering Connection?

Driving Music (What is the name of the song on car commercial?) Vol. 26

Okay, who've attacked me? If someone who Google searched "song in the verano car commercial", what's wrong with you? You're a big idiot. The music you've heard from the Buick Verano Car Commercial is an original music. I'm sorry but that is an original music. Please refrain from doing this because that is not funny!

For an alternative, here are some another five Driving Musics (Car Commercial Songs) for you to sit down, shut up! How hard could that be?

5) Hit the Road by Meisa Kuroki - the song heard from the Subaru BRZ Commercial

4) Style by Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin & Bing Crosby - the song from the latest Volkswagen CC German commercial.

3) Smokescreen by Willis - from the USA Fiat 500 Abarth "Seduction" TV Commercial

2) What Doesn't Kill You (Stronger) by Kelly Clarkson - from the USA Toyota 2012 Camry "Crew" TV Commercial

1) O Verona by Craig Armstrong (From Romeo and Juliet Music from the Motion Picture Vol. 2) - As seen on the Citroen C6 French Commercial

...and that's it. That's all for this now. Whatever you do, please refrain for Google searching for what is the song on a car commercial. It's not funny.

Wednesday, February 15, 2012

MGO services to be discontinued this June 12

Now this is somewhat bad news for those who are playing Metal Gear Online, the online multiplayer game included on Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots, when it was launched in June 12, 2008, worldwide. Announced by Konami, services for Metal Gear Online will be closed on June 12, 2012, after four years of multiplayer mayhem. According to the schedule, March 21, 2012 marks the closure of MGO Online Shop. By April 24, 2012, you'll gonna love this. Expansion packs (GENE, MEME, SCENE) and Preset Codec Message Appeal Packs will be available for free download, and reward shop equipment will be available for free with the exception of non-sale items. Take note that on this date, registration for new player characters will not be available during this time.

So, if you're a vet on this game, time for the best send-off you can get before the MGO comes to a farewell this June 12.

American version of TG's Truck Driving challenge

So, Series 3 of Top Gear USA was on the tubes already and it starts with The Big Film under an Amercan version of a Top Gear classic; Truck Driving Challenge.

Two Scandinavian trucks and one American truck. That's two Volvos and one big red Peterbilt. Trucks featured on the Series 3 opener were given nicknames by presenters Tanner Foust, Adam Ferrera, and Rutledge Wood. One is nicknamed Bearded Lady, other one is Mother Trucker, and the last...I don't know... Tiny Dancer perhaps? Never mind. But let's summarize this; On the first challenge (a drag race where presenters go straight and hit reverse back to the start line), Rutledge won that. On the second challenge, which is the hill climb challenge, there's a part where those idiots ruined Tanner's phone while Tanner's doing a hillclimb in his Peterblit. On the third challenge; Tanner's Peterblit is the fastest truck of the three. On the final challenge; it's simple. It's somewhat a 40 mile trip to the finish line and the one with the least damage in the container wins. Tanner's truck carries somewhat classy. It's somewhat a dinner table well organized. For Adam's, there was some paints and bowling balls on it. And for Rutledge, this is somewhat our favorite part, fire and some fireworks!

I really laughed on the part where fireworks come out when Rutledged opened the container of his Volvo truck. Great, another Top Gear Top Total in history... The fourth challenge sees Tanner sustained less damage inside the container.

Overall, the "Big Rigs" challenge ended in a two-way tie between Foust and Wood. Next week, they'll be featuring the Mustang Boss 302 and it will race against the horse. ^^

Welcome Back: 2011 McLaren MP4-12C

MP4-12C meets the Red Bull Mini Cooper


This is the fax machine you're seeing in your mirrors. Although, that may sound like a fax machine, it has proven to be better than the Ferrari 458 Italia. Not only that, it set an astonishing lap time of 1:16.2 at the Top Gear Test Track because it was developed for this track. To make James May's "wasn't developed at the Nurburgring" dialog wrong, it set the Nurburgring lap time of 7:28, eclipsing the likes of cars such as the Koenigseggisseggggnignigsegigisegggg (my apologies for the spelling, those Top Gear wazzocks done that) CCX, RUF RT12, Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera, Corvette ZR1, Lexus LFA, and the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. All we know is it's called the McLaren MP4-12C and I'm glad that this car is back on Forza Motorsport 4 and it hasn't changed a bit since the last one.

Sadly, when I first pitted the MP4-12C round the Top Gear Test Track, with the performance index of S700, it seems that my fax machine couldn't achieve the Power Lap Time of 1:16.2 even though I tweaked my suspension settings. So far, my personal best on this car is 1:17.2, but who cares? It's still a great car.

Tuesday, February 14, 2012

St. Valentine's Day...

Hey there, it's me! Today is Valentine's Day! To spice things up, Elsie gave me this nice chocolate box for us to enjoy. In fact, in Japan, Japanese girls give their boyfriends some chocolates and to repay the debt, boys will give cookies to girls on March's White Day. You know that drill but who cares? I would LOVE to say HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY TO ALL!!! ^^

Elsie


Elsie

TNP27 beware. Suzuki's MR Wagon Eco reaches 27.2km/L

2013 Suzuki MR Wagon ECO


Suzuki's 2013 MR Wagon Eco features an improved R06A engine, CVT, and idling stop function promises a fuel economy of 27.2km/L based on Japan's JC08 Mode Test Cycle. This fuel economy puts an extreme caution on Daihatsu's TNP27 Move, even though this latest Daihatsu Move comes with e:S Technology that provides 27km/L based on Japan's JC08 Mode Test Cycle. Sorry, TNP27, but that wasn't enough because a car company named Suzuki's throwing whatever they can to be the most fuel efficient car company in Japan. Could the Suzuki-Daihatsu rivalry get any better?

New Love Plus

NEW LOVE PLUS


When I've arrived home, everything look promising. That is my Valentine's Day gift. Ah, there's a note. It's from Konami. It says "Dear ********, hope you enjoy taking this to the max. P.S., it was developed at the most advanced hand held console." Oh, gosh. This wasn't what I had in mind, but since I was here, and they're payed for, I have no choice but to get on with it.

Well, it's certainly good. Same as Love Plus but it features new features developed for the Nintendo 3DS. This is NEW LOVE PLUS!

NEW LOVE PLUS is a beefed up version of the hit 2009 Nintendo DS dating sim game and it's now been coupled with new features to have players enjoy taking this to the max. You could expect enhanced graphics compared to the original 2009 Nintendo DS Love Plus game, then you can take advantage of the 3DS' gyro sensor to peek around your favorite gal (Rinko Kobayakawa, Manaka Takane, and Nene Anegasaki), take a picture (Photo Travel works fine), secure your gal with the new lock feature, bring your gal to life with the augmented reality feature and a flick of a 3D Depth Slider, and more. It's good in that.

It's actually better than good and I have to admit that this is one of the best 3DS dating sims you can buy and NEW LOVE PLUS is brilliant...at home but on public places, feels like it's ruined because most people think you're obsessed with it, finding your nearest date spots all over Japan. It's not just ruined, it's expensively ruined because it costs 6,980 Japanese Yen for the game alone but you may need about 33,850 Yen for the complete bundle that features the Nintendo 3DS (specially marked), Love Plus Art Book Complete Box, New Love Plus Original Soundtrack, a poster of your gal of choice (Rinko, Manaka, and Nene), 3D Clear File, and pins.

The origin of the supercar - The Lamborghini Miura

It's rare to see a Miura in Tokyo, Japan


This is the origin of Lamborghini as we know it today but it's more than that. This is where the modern supercar begins. The first of its kind. The Lamborghini Miura. It was 1963 when Lamborghini was founded by Ferrucio Lamborghini and they've created earlier models such as the 350GT and the 400GT. Then in 1965, they've announced the TP400 platform at the 1965 Torino Motor Show and then the Miura was born at the 1966 Geneva Motor Show. The Miura wasn't really an official project name, but a lesson learned from Top Gear knows that seven people were behind the creation of the Miura and they were at their 20's. One of them who's aged 22 back then was Marcello Gandini the then-chief designer of Bertone. Imagine what are you doing at the age of 22, you wouldn't realize that you have to give birth to the supercar that sparked a revolution.

The Miura turning the tides at Tsukuba

Most exotics come with big powerful engines but the Miura set a centerstage when it comes with a 4.0L V12 engine that produces 345HP of power and 271.2lb-ft of torque. This V12 engine was placed at the rear, setting the template of midship rear-wheel drive supercars. They also mounted the V12 engine sideways rather than lenghtways to keep it compact and oh, they got that idea from the Mini but we're not talking about that. What they didn't put was a three-seater layout like the McLaren F1 and the glass engine cover like the Ferrari but the surprising fact that when the Miura's doors are opened, the doors really shaped like the horns of the bull. Nice touch, that. Because this was made in the 1960's where traction control and ABS hasn't invented yet, the Lamborghini Miura isn't an easy car HARD TO DRIVE! WOOOH! But who cares? It's still a great car! The engine sounds so great especially the engine start up noise. Now that's classic!

Hope he's not late for the show...

However, the Lamborghini Miura has a very small lifespan, produced from 1966 to 1972, with over 760 units built but the Miura is the exotic that established the birth of Lamborghini in style. If that wasn't enough, it became the first car to win the first ever Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance Polyphony Digital Trophy in 2008. That's right. The Lamborghini Miura P400 Bertone Prototype CN.0706 was handpicked by Gran Turismo creator, Kazunori Yamauchi at the first ever Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance Polyphony Digital Trophy in 2008, setting the standards of classic cars.

An instant classic

My journey with the Miura is somewhat very difficult at the beginning. For a car that costs 15,000,000 Cr, that car is definitely the most expensive Lamborghini in Gran Turismo 5 but when I had my hands on it, I am highly impressed about the Miura's heritage and styling but when it comes to driving, IT'S HARD TO DRIVE! HOO HOO! Although I might be scared to drive the Miura, I felt more mature as I'm driving this classic car that gave birth to the exotic car scene.

"Concorde did it for planes. The Miura did it for supercars. As a car, it was floored but as a concept, it was truly a masterpiece" - Richard Hammond, Top Gear 

Monday, February 13, 2012

Those therapeutic shampoos...

Hello there. This is Leopaul again.

Seems that every morning when I woke up, my hair keeps on itching or perhaps I have traces of dandruff left on my pillow? No idea how the heck happened to me but is it because my hair's a bit too problematic that I spend most of the time twirling my hair with my fingers? Anyway, I once take a bath and I used the shampoo that my sister, Bea, used in case all of those vinegar and mouthwash trick won't work.

It's not just any ordinary shampoo, it's some kind of shampoo they called it THERAPEUTIC SHAMPOO. I once used it and oh, the smell of the Therapeutic Shampoo is very horrible. Can't believe that this is the worst shampoo I have ever used in my whole life especially if a shampoo smells a bit worse.

Next time, I should have bought Head and Shoulders because this shampoo is better to use but I would prefer the menthol variant of H&S because my hair loves it.

Therapeutic Shampoo

Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1


Think of this machine as Bumblebee's evil twin because the all new Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 is positioned as the hardcore version of the fifth-generation Chevrolet Camaro, a modern muscle car that was adorned by many thanks to its popularity as Transformers' Bumblebee. This car is a one-track mind, you can use it on the road or you can use it on the track and this ZL1 promises to be quite a thriller for petrolheads around North America.

The Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 is powered by a Supercharged LSA 6.2L engine that produces about 580bhp of power and 556lb-ft of torque. What's more, it can be mated in two transmission types such as the 6-speed Hydra-Matic 6L90 Automatic Transmission and the Tremec 6-speed manual transmission with a revised short-throw shifter. The Hydra-Matic 6L90 Automatic Transmission comes with a TAPshift mode that reduces delay time and aggressive gear changes, making it smooth and silky as a pair of boxers. The 6-speed MT on the ZL1 comes with a revised short-throw shifter that provides smooth transfer on the engine's power and torque. Okay, when it comes to 0-60m time and flatout, the Camaro ZL1 6AT can go for about 3.9 seconds and 184mph while the Camaro ZL1 6MT can go for about 4.0 seconds and 180mph. By results, it seems that the TAPshift technology on the Hydra-Matic 6L90 transmission means that it can do better than the manual variant but it doesn't matter because it lapped the Nurburgring in 7:41.27, that's quicker than the Lamborghini Murcielago SV! What's the secret of the ZL1's success?

The ZL1's suspension comes with the Magnetic Ride Control, the same feature you've encountered from the Corvette and Australia's Holden HSV range, allowing drivers to change the suspension settings; Tour, Sport and Track, providing magnetorheological fluid for damping levels adjusted up to 1,000 times per second. What provides the handling is the Performance Traction Management that takes advantage of the MRC, Launch Control, Traction Control, and Active Handling systems. It was made for lower inertia and friction, creating a direct steering feel and great response. Also, it comes with a Brembo Brake System that provides stopping power that can get yourself out from the tights.

It may look like Bumblebee but this is the bee's evil twin because of its Mohawk hood air extractor, large lower grille openings, and lower splitter, providing aerodynamics for the ZL1. The interior looks the same as the original model but the steering wheel is derived from the Chevrolet Cruze but it has the words ZL1 on it. It even comes served with red stitching provide contrast on the once dark interior but I like that. Red and black is just a menacing combo on the inside. To enjoy the best in music and information, an available SiriusXM Satellite Radio comes served on the ZL1 and the all new Boston Acoustics Premium Nine-Speaker Sound System gives you a top quality audio experience. Imagine if The Stig listens to something nonsense while driving the ZL1 round the Top Gear Test Track...

Seven colors are available for the ZL1 such as Silver Ice Metallic, Summit White, Black, Victory Red, Rally Yellow, Inferno Orange Metallic, and Ashen Gray Metallic.

My comment:
I was getting a bit more interested on the ZL1 because it lapped the Nurburgring faster than the Lamborghini Murcielago SV but on such stats, it is hopeless to kick the bumper of the 2013 Shelby GT500. Who cares? This is the kind of Camaro that will leave you completely bonkers and this is somewhat the younger brother of the hardcore Chevrolet Corvette ZR1. With prices start at around $54,995 (or in Top Gear math, about 4.3 million Philippine Pesos), the Camaro ZL1 provides you with the 6.2L supercharged engine, Magnetic Ride Control, 6-speed manual, 20-inch rims, and that's it. This ZL1 is the perfect Camaro royalty for the enthusiasts.

Photo: General Motors

Sunday, February 12, 2012

Jango Katol!

Special guest Wendell Ramos hangs out again on the February 12, 2012 episode of Lokomoko with some moments include;

- Flower shop gags

- Tanong ko lang, kulang...Paano pinatutuyo ang super dry beer?

- Lokomersyal in Jango Katol

Jango Katol


- Tanong Ko Lang, Kulang...Nangingitlog ba ang eggplant?

- Tanong Ko Lang, Kulang...Pwede bang kainin ng mabagal ang fastfood?

- Johnny Bobo strikes back and this time, he's dealing with a woman who loves a laugh

- Tanong Ko Lang, Kulang...Bakit kahit hindi pasko, may parol sa bilangguan?

- It's BUANG FOR ALL, ALL FOR BUANG again...

- and it's WHOSE LINE IS IT ANYHOW?!

1) Makibaka! Huwag matakot! - Baka

2) Sorry kung makapal ako lahat kasi alam ko - Dictionary

3) Nasasaktan ako tuwing tinatanong mo kung mahal ka niya o hindi - Petals ng bulaklak

4) Aanhin pa ang damo kung patay na ako? - Adik

5) Lagi akong may ka-table - Chair

6) Kadalasan, hndi maganda ang balita ko sa'yo, pero yun ang binabayaran mo sa akin, hindi ba? - Doctor

7) Ako ang tunay na number 1! - Number One

GetBackers vs. Lupin the Third...sort of

The scene of the ultimate showdown.
A straight fight between GetBackers and Lupin III


Sorry folks. We're not comparing two anime shows that you know. We're comparing the two cars that were seen in anime shows. The original Fiat 500 which was Lupin the Third's car of choice while the memorable Subaru 360 was the car of choice for the Getbackers. How can we settle those classic minis? Let's find out, "Top Gear at the Movies" style.

Firstly, let's start with the Subaru 360. Ah yes. The little Subaru...The little Subaru 360....It maybe the first Subaru kei car ever built but undeniably, this car is the brainchild of the Subaru brand. This is the pride and joy of Fuji Heavy Industries when they're starting the Subaru brand in the 1950's. Even in today's standards, the Subaru 360 is still unique in the eyes of car enthusiasts. The Subaru 360 is powered by the 356cc engine, which was the standard kei car displacement in the 50's, that produces about 16HP of power and it was positioned at the (wait for it) back! Nope, the 360 is not a midship but it is the first and only rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive production car from Subaru. I have no wonder why did Ban Mido and Ginji Amano prefer that machine so much on their missions but still a great car for many. That model was launched in 1958, two years after the post war period was declared over, and production ended in 1971, replaced by the Subaru R-2. There is just one fact that this car is nicknamed the "ladybug", just when the original Volkswagen 1100 was called, and once approved, Beetle. So, are there any Subaru 360 owners clubs around the world? If there's any, well, count me in because I want to see how people love their Subaru 360 so much, they retain it in their garages even by today's standards.

Okay, we've done about the GetBackers' ride, how about the ride of our favorite master thief and a misfit that is Lupin the Third? If you were the kind of dashing debonair who spends most of the time at the heist of the world's most precious artifacts and treasures, be sure that your heists are not complete without this nippy little Italian rascal, the original Fiat 500. It looks similar to the ride Lupin III and the gang rode on The Castle of Cagliostro, which is a Hayao Miyazaki masterpiece but due to constraints, we can't show you the film, perhaps if Hammond and May didn't feature it on 2011's Top Gear at the Movies DVD. If that was featured, imagine if Hammond or May recreate the scene after the Monaco casino robbery from The Castle of Cagliostro film.

Anyway, for a quick history lesson, the original Cinquecento was launched in 1957 and it was heavily inspired from the Topolino compact but this compact car can accommodate up to four people, two more than the Topolino. Like the Subaru 360, the original Fiat 500 is a rear engine, rear wheel drive compact, meaning that its 479cc engine was at the back of it. As for the 479cc engine, it produces 15HP of power and it has a top speed of just 90kph. Not quite good for the highway trip but it looks perfect on the city streets. The one I featured here is the 1968 Fiat 500 F, it has a 499.5cc engine that produces 17HP of power and 22.4ft-lb of torque. This car weighs 520kg, which is somewhat heavier than the Subaru 360.

Okay, if I was going to be more like "Clarkson Duel", let's just say...Who is better? GetBackers or Lupin the Third? To find out, I've fully tuned both of my Subaru 360 and the 1968 Fiat 500 F and I chose "The Top Gear Test Track" as the venue. Both are fitted with Comfort Medium Tires and let's find out which of these two anime shows are better.

I started with the Subaru 360, which is the GetBackers' car of choice, and it did it in...

2:03.8

...then, it was the turn of Lupin the III's car, the 1968 Fiat 500 F. Guess my tuned 500 F has more power than my tuned Subaru 360, which makes it a bit more painful to ask. So then, same track, same driver. Lupin III's car is underway and it did it in...

1:47.1

...which means, the oldies anime was proven better than the anime that was aired in the 2000's! It was proven that Lupin the Third was better than GetBackers! The 1968 Fiat 500 F was proven to be quicker than the Subaru 360! No wonder! A very old anime that was beaten by a very very very old anime! Oh bugger! If only Top Gear made a DVD about the anime cars with Richard Hammond and James May on it, this would be it and this would be called TOP GEAR AT THE ANIMES! I hope Andy Wilman, executive producer of Top Gear, got that memo!

Whitney Houston Dies At The Age Of 48

Whitney Houston


Yes, that is a very sad news for those who are enthusiast to one of the greatest singers of all time. Whitney Houston, a pop music legend whose fame was ravaged from the case of her drug use and her marriage to Bobby Brown, was died at the age of 48. Her cause of death was not known as investigation found the body of Whitney Houston at the fourth floor of the Beverly Hilton hotel at Beverly Hills. We can't believe she died before the Grammy Awards tomorrow! That was tragic but we surely miss Whitney Houston for such memorable songs. Guess my Dad sometimes likes songs from the late Whitney Houston...

The Run of Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale

Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale


Name: Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale

Nationality: Italian

Top Speed: 187 MPH

0 to 60 Time: 4.6 seconds

BHP: 444 @ 7,000RPM

Performance: Tier 4

Handling: Normal

Class: Exotic

Drivetrain: RWD

Manufacture Year: 2012

Description:

The Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale is the most powerful Maserati ever built for the hardcore car enthusiasts and it is known to be the softened, firmed-up, street-legal version of the track-only Maserati GranTurismo MC and the MC GT4. This hardcore version is all work, all play, suitable for track day use or as a long-distance cruiser if you want to go out for a stroll at the country club. The inspired race-car technology derived from the GranTurismo MC GT4 produces more aerodynamic downforce and more power, without sacrificing the original GranTurismo's ride quality. Under, the hood, the MC Stradale comes with the 4.7L V8 engine that was improved to have 450HP of power and 510Nm of torque. It can do naught to 60 in 4.6 seconds and top speed of 187MPH. To make it more race-oriented, the GranTurismo MC Stradale retains the original 48:52 weight distribution for balanced handling and even tyre wear. The rear seats from the original Maserati GranTurismo has been stripped off, all in the case of saving weight and this is the first to have Race Mode that even sharpens throttle response and gear changes.

The Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale is part of the all new Need For Speed THE RUN Italian Edition Pack, now available at the PlayStation Store and XBOX Live Marketplace. Go back to THE RUN and experience this racecar-oriented long distance cruiser!

The new Polo GTi - It's Explosive

Imagine if the guys from Top Gear Korea went
to Switzerland to drive the new Polo GTi...

Those hot hatches in Forza Motorsport 4 such as the Ford Focus RS, Volkswagen Scirocco R, Renaultsport Megane, and the SEAT Leon Cupra R are seem to be massive. Surely, I was very contended driving with turbocharged micro-minis, especially the Fiat 500 Abarth, but I found out that none of these hot hatches satisfying me for its performance. What I need now is a very "hot" hatch that satisfies my craving and this could be a contender. Representing the Forza Motorsport 4 February ALMS Pack, this is the all new Volkswagen Polo V GTi. The only hot hatch that comes with a supercharger and turbocharger all rolled into one. Those days of driving hot hatches in Forza Motorsport 4 are becoming one of my "Engineering Connections" and with this, this is Richard Hammond's Engineering Connections to the next level.

INSANELY BONKERS!!!

About the Polo V GTi, this is the high-performance version of the fifth-generation Volkswagen Polo, the Golf's little brother. What it lives it up to its name was its superior handling and uncompromising engine dynamics. This is the only Volkswagen hot hatch that comes with the direct-injected 1.4L TSi Twincharger engine, an engine that combines two of the most powerful attributes of the performance world; a supercharger and a turbocharger. This is just like the Japanese hatchback with the words "Super Turbo" from the past. The 1.4L Twincharger engine produces 177HP of power and 184 lb-ft of torque. This allows the car to go from naught to 60 in 6 and a half seconds and it can flat out in 147mph. Those figures really made the Polo V GTi go neck-and-neck with its big brother, the Volkswagen Golf VI GTi.

It's explosive...(Sorry VW Scirocco)

This Polo V GTi made me found the answer I was looking for when it comes to observing the "Engineering Connections" of a hot hatch but it always made me completely bonkers because of its 1.4L Twincharger engine and a 7-speed DSG that makes shifting smooth and silky as my polo I'm wearing for my night classes. This car is not a hot hatch, much like the others, but it is a hyper hatch that is purely demonic and explosive. Some say, it will get you into trouble easily, it will get you out with a smile on your face, and it will soothe your brow, all the way home. As a matter of fact, (sigh) I love it! (Mwah)