2005 Honda Insight: America's First Hybrid and Fuel Efficient Vehicle with Top quality Honda Parts from Parts TrainWritten by Jenny McLane
Since it was introduced back in 2002, Honda Insight's 1.0-liter three-cylinder gasoline engine and Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) motor-generator have been modified, and CVT model's final drive ratio is considerably lower, at 5.69:1 compared to 3.21 for manual, to take advantage of CVT's wider-spread "gear'' ratios.Powered by Honda's Integrated Motor Assist (IMA™) system that pairs a 3-cylinder VTEC™-E engine with an electric motor, Insight comes fully loaded with dual front airbags (SRS), power windows, mirrors and door locks, a remote entry system, AM/FM stereo cassette, alloy wheels and much more. Like a turbocharger, IMA motor-generator is called to action when extra power is needed for acceleration and hill climbing, and feels like a low-pressure turbo. Unlike at turbo, motor becomes a generator when braking or coasting, which recharges nickel metal-hydride battery pack The Honda Insight gains efficiency not only by its drivetrain but by light weight and clean aerodynamics. Curb weight is less than 2,000 lbs even with CVT and air conditioning (standard on CVT model, optional with standard transmission). Like other hybrids, Insight's engine stops when car is stopped at a light or in traffic, contributing greatly to fuel economy. The Insight achieves EPA city/highway fuel economy ratings of 60/66 (manual) and 57/56 (CVT) mpg, respectively.
| | 2005 Ford Mercury Montego: Best Equipped With Superior Aftermarket Parts at PartstrainWritten by Jenny McLane
The Mercury Montego is first Mercury car in over a decade offering all-wheel drive. Montego comes in Luxury and Premier models with a 203-hp 3.0-liter V6. Both offer front-wheel drive with 6-speed automatic transmission or AWD with a continuously variable automatic transmission. The CVT provides variable drive ratios vs. conventional automatic's fixed-ratio gears. Both transmissions are new to Ford Motor Company. It has signature waterfall grille, strategic use of contrasting metallic surfaces like satin aluminum and chrome, distinctive taillight bezels. The Montego's Volvo-inspired platform has a stable platform, with fully independent suspension for a quiet ride and responsive handling. With Duratec 30 V-6 engine refined for a smoother, quieter operation, available all-wheel-drive system is packaged with a new continuously variable transmission. Front-wheel-drive vehicles use a premium six-speed automatic transmission The 3.0-litre, 4-valve-per-cylinder, dual overhead cam, Duratec V-6, adequately powers Montego. This high-tech, dependable power unit generates 203 horsepower and 207 lb.ft. of torque. All Montegos have antilock 4-wheel disc brakes and traction control, but no antiskid system is available, 17-inch seven-spoke wheels, automatic HID headlamps, LED taillamps, body-color moldings, fog lamps, remote keyless entry with keypad and interval wipers. Other features include folding heated power exterior mirrors, power windows and door locks, driver and front passenger air bags, passive anti-theft system, dual-zone electronic climate control, front and rear floor mats, six-way power driver's seat, fold-flat front passenger seat, seatback map pockets, split-fold rear seat, fold-down rear armrest with cupholders, auto-dimming rearview mirror, two 12-volt powerpoints, AM/FM stereo with single CD player and tilt steering wheel with remote audio controls.
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