tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55455645154463811562024-02-07T21:17:42.544-08:00wailing-engine.comThe story of a unique car that traveled half a world to its new life.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger169125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5545564515446381156.post-91552723439086171492021-04-25T13:26:00.004-07:002021-04-25T13:28:44.235-07:00Waiting in the Shadows<div class="noborderdv" style="clear: both; height: 360px; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; width: 680px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7jRkhGbnBvvHGJPRKzbYswphE9HcAU6ppEx9dDbqZD_cPvcdVvCn2YENMNcwA16LIa9UJojmC08NviTopy5Y3Ez84GFOT1MhZBN9_Z93XP2vZbE0udk5c6v992PhyphenhyphentOpqiu5Tf0grcCt5/s0/zastava_1.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="auto" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7jRkhGbnBvvHGJPRKzbYswphE9HcAU6ppEx9dDbqZD_cPvcdVvCn2YENMNcwA16LIa9UJojmC08NviTopy5Y3Ez84GFOT1MhZBN9_Z93XP2vZbE0udk5c6v992PhyphenhyphentOpqiu5Tf0grcCt5/s700/zastava_1.jpeg" style="left: -10px; position: relative; top: -110px;" width="700"></a></div><p><br>
Not long after <a href="http://www.wailing-engine.com/2019/02/end-of-season-wrap-up-gallery.html">the final chunk of driving</a> before the pandemic started, I drove my little Zastava the hour or so to my mechanic's shop. The aim was to fix a plethora of leaks, change the belts, plus to finally get it to freakin' start reliably, before another driving season would occur.<br>
<br>
The car ended up producing some sort of worrying, clutch-like smell about 30-45min in (it's been so long now, I can't remember exactly why). With a strong desire to not have to call a tow truck, I pulled onto the hard shoulder of the highway and waited for the smell to subside before continuing. Eventually, we reached our destination, but not before the brake pedal suddenly got as hard as a rock.<br>
</p><a href="http://www.wailing-engine.com/2021/04/waiting-in-shadows.html#more"><br>Continue reading »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5545564515446381156.post-83079518537073632482020-08-11T21:37:00.000-07:002020-08-11T21:37:25.403-07:00So I Changed My Game Plan<div class="noborderdv" style="clear: both; height: 360px; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; width: 680px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiWPUVwrVZ3v_V3few36zbfJv2ETAMKDS8jrBE854-Uig7Wmv1xzFwg0wbq2n9yjbjKOxEUCcl3mhsENCD2rUYURjCZR5SbZVm1GF5qNripu2lBpCdO2ZYO7xjWdfyBZi79NO1NmIgCswb/s1600/Collage+-+Final.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="auto" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiWPUVwrVZ3v_V3few36zbfJv2ETAMKDS8jrBE854-Uig7Wmv1xzFwg0wbq2n9yjbjKOxEUCcl3mhsENCD2rUYURjCZR5SbZVm1GF5qNripu2lBpCdO2ZYO7xjWdfyBZi79NO1NmIgCswb/s800/Collage+-+Final.png" style="left: 0px; position: relative; top: -15px;" width="680"></a></div><br>
My little Zastava is in the shop, getting all its gaskets replaced <i>(among other things)</i>. I always say that hopefully this is the last shop visit before it's fully driveable, but I won't say that this time. No, I think I'll change my game plan and only talk about what's already been done, ignoring its intended impact on the car's future.<br>
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Aside from dealing with the Fića's return to form, I've also spent the last five or six years looking for a modern performance car. The basic criteria was a powerful engine, rear wheel drive, two doors, and most importantly, a manual transmission. Extra points if it's brand new.<br>
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Easier said than done.<br>
<a href="http://www.wailing-engine.com/2020/08/so-i-changed-my-game-plan.html#more"><br>Continue reading »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5545564515446381156.post-58437143445908549902019-02-06T14:04:00.000-08:002019-02-08T16:51:25.566-08:00End of Season Wrap-Up & Gallery<div class="noborderdv" style="clear: both; height: 360px; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; width: 680px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzOzRTqybUBlftC-kfUMlELYupAo2JEAcFBQLeCIm9jNPTcJS9RweKEnqEAuJxwfRg9vFoFSDfXYtBcLjdFHnPWF9zlnm6S3rRcaf8Ctl0W96tbLbXrgA11-4aqO81zKNlHbn2dUBpCIDU/s1600/750_20180804_123805009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="auto" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzOzRTqybUBlftC-kfUMlELYupAo2JEAcFBQLeCIm9jNPTcJS9RweKEnqEAuJxwfRg9vFoFSDfXYtBcLjdFHnPWF9zlnm6S3rRcaf8Ctl0W96tbLbXrgA11-4aqO81zKNlHbn2dUBpCIDU/s700/750_20180804_123805009.jpg" style="position: relative; top: -20px; left: -10px;" width="700"></a></div><br>
Back at the end of July last year began the second official driving season for my perpetually-broken little bastard. With some long-awaited <a href="http://www.wailing-engine.com/2018/07/its-actually-done.html">new parts and repair work</a> having been done, the plan was to drive it as much as possible, and discover if there was any more work to do. And after four months of regular driving, it turned out that...yes, we have more work to do.<br>
<br>
But first, let me go over some good news.<br>
<a href="http://www.wailing-engine.com/2019/02/end-of-season-wrap-up-gallery.html#more"><br>Continue reading »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5545564515446381156.post-53161436388931921202018-12-22T15:53:00.000-08:002018-12-22T15:53:15.194-08:00Review: 2018 Volkswagen Golf<div class="noborderdv" style="clear: both; height: 360px; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; width: 680px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDqSQGxJFRRQk-QDYrWUMazffu0Tc1zQc6-x0TLrWqKdZMhyphenhypheny1LqqLlq9BgwJfcRJ5zLi0kM_pP90MN9MWLWL1W8g2g4l-AuOc4JhAuDFB8YbdNBuyiohSW4l34el7A4L-_EEpFutD4Ggc/s1600/G_115257.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="auto" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDqSQGxJFRRQk-QDYrWUMazffu0Tc1zQc6-x0TLrWqKdZMhyphenhypheny1LqqLlq9BgwJfcRJ5zLi0kM_pP90MN9MWLWL1W8g2g4l-AuOc4JhAuDFB8YbdNBuyiohSW4l34el7A4L-_EEpFutD4Ggc/s800/G_115257.jpg" style="position: relative; top: -60px; left: -10px;" width="700"></a></div><br>
Remember that Simpsons episode where the family joins a cult? The entire town is hypnotized by clearly unrealistic promises of awaiting paradise, provided they sacrifice everything in their life that was ever worth a damn.<br>
<br>
I feel like that describes the automotive industry today. Manufacturers are The Leader, convincing us that needlessly downsized and complicated engines, lack of steering feel, electronics where they don't need to be, and automatic transmissions are the way forward.<br>
<br>
Obsolescence and low quality are the name of today's game, robbing more and more sense out of long-term ownership – cars are now built to be leased.<br>
<br>
They have to get those sacks of ballast cash for the UFO somehow, after all.<br>
<br>
The worst part is, the <strike>townspeople</strike> buying public are eating it all up. "I love The Leader," they chant, as they buy the extended warranty in the F&I office.<br>
<a href="http://www.wailing-engine.com/2018/12/review-2018-volkswagen-golf.html#more"><br>Continue reading »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5545564515446381156.post-36421014774252291972018-08-25T13:15:00.001-07:002018-08-25T13:15:42.540-07:00BMW X Tour<div class="noborderdv" style="clear: both; height: 360px; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; width: 680px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0kP_VvyPwW-LqFQsV64PJNyeaEgEgLOaP9uWNF1KmyhtP84bYM_BS37xYOlC-gHHdzXpaWE3yw0c2qYkdC1hWdzwmrHMPngaTB4rnWMgmHFBfC1N_9mM6zuDcdmMS4-Urb2YZZlK7t2Bb/s1600/BMW_13918321.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="auto" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0kP_VvyPwW-LqFQsV64PJNyeaEgEgLOaP9uWNF1KmyhtP84bYM_BS37xYOlC-gHHdzXpaWE3yw0c2qYkdC1hWdzwmrHMPngaTB4rnWMgmHFBfC1N_9mM6zuDcdmMS4-Urb2YZZlK7t2Bb/s800/BMW_13918321.jpg" style="position: relative; top: -20px; left: -10px;" width="700"></a></div><br>
BMW's SUV lineup has seen some updates recently. Namely, they redesigned the X3, and launched the all-new X2. I got the chance to sample both on an autocross course, as well as to sample the off-roadability of the current X5 and X6. Here's how it all went.<br>
<a href="http://www.wailing-engine.com/2018/08/bmw-x-tour.html#more"><br>Continue reading »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5545564515446381156.post-26735030373977371512018-07-22T14:02:00.000-07:002018-07-22T14:07:51.543-07:00It's Actually Done<div class="noborderdv" style="clear: both; height: 360px; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; width: 680px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFS_msS1KOEQ1JO7lXU8vTqWeYFb0R9Sawu82rryTS_HhbUgA_QTqV1ORMpRYKQqkf3iqO5l_UyxnBLzEG-KdE4gJwhbZcRQx7goh0DYn3uWwBWW-13o-O7cYg51VZdfr7bCceFDqzy1A7/s1600/750_20180722_09_52_13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="auto" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFS_msS1KOEQ1JO7lXU8vTqWeYFb0R9Sawu82rryTS_HhbUgA_QTqV1ORMpRYKQqkf3iqO5l_UyxnBLzEG-KdE4gJwhbZcRQx7goh0DYn3uWwBWW-13o-O7cYg51VZdfr7bCceFDqzy1A7/s700/750_20180722_09_52_13.jpg" style="position: relative; top: -20px; left: -10px;" width="700"></a></div><br>
After what seemed like an eternity <a href="http://www.wailing-engine.com/2016/09/hybernations-over.html" target="_blank">at the shop</a>, the Fića is finally done. Finished. Ready to drive.<br>
<br>
I know, I can't believe it either.<br>
<br>
It took the hour-long drive home like a champ. Zero drama. Here's everything that it took to get it to this point.<br>
<a href="http://www.wailing-engine.com/2018/07/its-actually-done.html#more"><br>Continue reading »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5545564515446381156.post-78072972684786165672017-12-24T22:02:00.000-08:002017-12-25T17:01:43.664-08:00Review: 2017 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited<div class="noborderdv" style="clear: both; height: 360px; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; width: 680px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkawc1QM_AwRGz4FglpDBBvpByy60bBX8Ic3-14N-wgQ-ZULSWNcQA06WHOaPIW5863nURbLSQHQym1cEo70XXOgXozg_hCQQ6pUS-tyrFLvhOEoxg_vwPI-znD9Mtvrs_1SrOPoL7m_Hq/s1600/J_121048564.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="auto" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkawc1QM_AwRGz4FglpDBBvpByy60bBX8Ic3-14N-wgQ-ZULSWNcQA06WHOaPIW5863nURbLSQHQym1cEo70XXOgXozg_hCQQ6pUS-tyrFLvhOEoxg_vwPI-znD9Mtvrs_1SrOPoL7m_Hq/s700/J_121048564.jpg" style="position: relative; top: -10px; left: -20px;" width="700"></a></div><br>
Being behind the wheel of a giant box has a way of messing with your head at first. It's hard to quantify, but your initial impressions are that it just feels...weird.<br>
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The thing is, a couple minutes down the road, you clue in to the massive grin that has snuck onto your face. You notice you really, really like this weirdness. You notice you're smiling every time you drive the Wrangler.<br>
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Let's go over the quirks, then, of which there are many.<br>
<a href="http://www.wailing-engine.com/2017/12/review-2017-jeep-wrangler-unlimited.html#more"><br>Continue reading »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5545564515446381156.post-66059454266045809312017-09-23T11:03:00.000-07:002017-09-23T11:03:55.999-07:00Review: 2017 Volvo V60 Cross Country<div class="noborderdv" style="clear: both; height: 360px; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; width: 680px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijNUrBErKg20f-MdSOhS2LdpYWqadXlDAo9VkeYKimU0hjh9XmveVhsCotFks7Clwt5Pq4Z99ht55dy_WgEXsb0DmFH1ZniUl-x0V_JAP0fjpD2ZdZ2KsWGv75l6QInkNZHxmdsOkM4M1p/s1600/V_44900146.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="auto" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijNUrBErKg20f-MdSOhS2LdpYWqadXlDAo9VkeYKimU0hjh9XmveVhsCotFks7Clwt5Pq4Z99ht55dy_WgEXsb0DmFH1ZniUl-x0V_JAP0fjpD2ZdZ2KsWGv75l6QInkNZHxmdsOkM4M1p/s700/V_44900146.jpg" style="position: relative; top: -0px; left: -20px;" width="700"></a></div><br>
Recently, Volvo switched its entire lineup to four-cylinder power, from the big 90-series to the smaller 60-series. While the four-banger doesn't really do it in their larger vehicles, it works quite well in the small stuff, like this V60.<br>
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Specifically, this is a V60 Cross Country, the off-road version of the regular V60 wagon. You get some added ground clearance (7.9" total), along with black plastic fender flares and metal lower body trim to complete the look. The differences aren't merely cosmetic, though, evident by the skid plates beneath, and the Hill Descent Control button in the center stack!<br>
<a href="http://www.wailing-engine.com/2017/09/review-2017-volvo-v60-cross-country.html#more"><br>Continue reading »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5545564515446381156.post-28743077762183097522017-08-19T16:43:00.000-07:002017-08-19T16:54:53.935-07:00Review: 2017 Toyota RAV4<div class="noborderdv" style="clear: both; height: 360px; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; width: 680px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj59XjK1fR3V65MFfXB7vHO1LLu9mHrlydQHY8sc190ruRm6lhU9O3R2GTrprzdexrjZATbMUEUjxHQVC6DfaKcMpeSn-p5dhh1KF0LMhGB8B9CUjEgYRYOBMEYmMTgcB528SD-pg5C1_6e/s1600/T_058556.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="auto" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj59XjK1fR3V65MFfXB7vHO1LLu9mHrlydQHY8sc190ruRm6lhU9O3R2GTrprzdexrjZATbMUEUjxHQVC6DfaKcMpeSn-p5dhh1KF0LMhGB8B9CUjEgYRYOBMEYmMTgcB528SD-pg5C1_6e/s700/T_058556.jpg" style="position: relative; top: -15px; left: -30px;" width="700"></a></div><br>
It looks more interesting than it actually is.<br>
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If you've ever driven any generic, mass-produced Toyota, you'll already know what the RAV4 is like. It rides the same, handles the same, smells the same, and sounds the same as any Camry or Corolla. This one just comes in a compact SUV format.<br>
<a href="http://www.wailing-engine.com/2017/08/review-2017-toyota-rav4.html#more"><br>Continue reading »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5545564515446381156.post-21255644685521665032017-04-30T14:18:00.001-07:002017-04-30T14:18:45.400-07:00Jaguar Art of Performance Tour<div class="noborderdv" style="clear: both; height: 360px; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; width: 680px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Vp5yIeEXki9h-ecR_bITTwAGhTId6TWbPpXmWUYV5J-xJ-tgaOqXVP5F9BQsCrWF2BRdcr4tR_IhrN4cZnVhhHqE0KDtjluYKhZBLJyP531ByOImrbrSUE-C6tFIAQCILBXhg39BNk42/s1600/IMG_20160910_081310653_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="auto" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Vp5yIeEXki9h-ecR_bITTwAGhTId6TWbPpXmWUYV5J-xJ-tgaOqXVP5F9BQsCrWF2BRdcr4tR_IhrN4cZnVhhHqE0KDtjluYKhZBLJyP531ByOImrbrSUE-C6tFIAQCILBXhg39BNk42/s900/IMG_20160910_081310653_HDR.jpg" style="position: relative; top: -80px; left: -0px;" width="890"></a></div><br>
A few months ago, I attended a driving event for the new Jaguar XE and F-Pace. Little did I know we were to be treated to much more than that...<br>
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I'll come back to that in a bit.<br>
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Events like this tend to sorely lack browsing time, but not this one. The first half hour is for checking out the full range of Jaguar and Land Rover vehicles, unlocked and on display, at your own pace. A quick and to-the-point briefing follows, after which we're unleashed on the first of four stations.<br>
<a href="http://www.wailing-engine.com/2017/04/jaguar-art-of-performance-tour.html#more"><br>Continue reading »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5545564515446381156.post-65811766551368302752016-11-28T18:59:00.000-08:002016-11-28T18:59:11.106-08:00Review: 2016 Ford Edge Titanium<div class="noborderdv" style="clear: both; height: 360px; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; width: 680px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikXCuCY6uhyphenhyphen_7OkcKLvGs2RzUasdCbYJRgPTvdI6S9VKXj8Dtxt7XWqoA5UHtVSgYIGrnI5viCbRkvb8tfwZdoLXZZEF7JHTHOPYEQoh7haZ71nDxKX_lZuCDXJjHShQc5YIbsU78HGsFr/s1600/E_04838756.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="auto" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikXCuCY6uhyphenhyphen_7OkcKLvGs2RzUasdCbYJRgPTvdI6S9VKXj8Dtxt7XWqoA5UHtVSgYIGrnI5viCbRkvb8tfwZdoLXZZEF7JHTHOPYEQoh7haZ71nDxKX_lZuCDXJjHShQc5YIbsU78HGsFr/s800/E_04838756.jpg" style="position: relative; top: -50px; left: -50px;" width="760"></a></div><br>
I'll admit, when I noticed the self-parking system button down by the shifter, I was excited to try it out...then I completely forgot about it.<br>
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Later that night, I remembered the button while pulling up next to a vacant parallel spot – so at the very last second, I pressed it. It recognized the spot right away, and told me it'll take the wheel.<br>
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The Edge parked itself perfectly on the first try.<br>
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What else can it do?<br>
<a href="http://www.wailing-engine.com/2016/11/review-2016-ford-edge-titanium.html#more"><br>Continue reading »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5545564515446381156.post-33808689660577901232016-10-20T20:01:00.001-07:002016-10-27T15:43:58.056-07:00Review: 2016 GMC Terrain<div class="noborderdv" style="clear: both; height: 360px; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; width: 680px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHNTxnuN5ZCaDeJ7CLr2kp4l9bnsEWaMITX_zj5BmLXT4lyfCX9TKAEQrvp2IaipQj0Twq-L3V7fASAqIzJVzRv52jWuo5D864a-h6jKs56XjeGOfYIjCNwxlX9wwQWZdNpvW1tbT9kgRX/s1600/RGT_6104.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="auto" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHNTxnuN5ZCaDeJ7CLr2kp4l9bnsEWaMITX_zj5BmLXT4lyfCX9TKAEQrvp2IaipQj0Twq-L3V7fASAqIzJVzRv52jWuo5D864a-h6jKs56XjeGOfYIjCNwxlX9wwQWZdNpvW1tbT9kgRX/s800/RGT_6104.jpg" style="position: relative; top: -30px; left: -30px;" width="760"></a></div><br>
There are cars that surprise you, cars that for whatever reason, you expect to be bad, but they end up being very good. They get under your skin more with every minute behind the wheel. You recommend them to everybody who will listen. You think of any excuse to buy one yourself.<br>
<br>
The GMC Terrain is not one of those cars.<br>
<a href="http://www.wailing-engine.com/2016/10/review-2016-gmc-terrain.html#more"><br>Continue reading »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5545564515446381156.post-69154657536015929302016-09-04T17:36:00.000-07:002016-09-04T18:06:23.180-07:00Hybernation's over<div class="noborderdv" style="clear: both; height: 360px; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; width: 680px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhohehhwq_3sD5OHP274-1x7RBqmu9I5uh8HGSXGA0Cp7-pAlAuY4JS2ze5KbbJRoF-FKl3UPH_Nxn1XdxZIzaKCOMzqtmyI8sTijRrN6j2kTPkKunQtMQhXgXDeKl5VEWcSOtFIvc6WoO7/s1600/IMG_20160830_194846924_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="auto" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhohehhwq_3sD5OHP274-1x7RBqmu9I5uh8HGSXGA0Cp7-pAlAuY4JS2ze5KbbJRoF-FKl3UPH_Nxn1XdxZIzaKCOMzqtmyI8sTijRrN6j2kTPkKunQtMQhXgXDeKl5VEWcSOtFIvc6WoO7/s800/IMG_20160830_194846924_HDR.jpg" style="position: relative; top: -10px; left: -70px;" width="760"></a></div><br>
So this just happened – after much schedule-juggling, the Fića is off to my mechanic. This should be the last major repair before the car is fully driveable and reliable, like it should've been at the start.<br>
<br>
Seeing as it was <a href="http://www.wailing-engine.com/2015/06/the-wise-decision.html" target="_blank">borderline dangerous to drive when I last parked it</a>, we arranged a tow. The plan, however, is to <i>drive</i> it back to my house once the repairs are done.<br>
<br>
Crazy, I know.<br>
<a href="http://www.wailing-engine.com/2016/09/hybernations-over.html#more"><br>Continue reading »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5545564515446381156.post-26181261786856611192016-07-31T22:20:00.001-07:002016-07-31T22:20:49.762-07:00Review: 2016 Toyota Camry LE<div class="noborderdv" style="clear: both; height: 360px; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; width: 680px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3UqRwW72seSbaXLHnohjsAaBXQn138RwXBwk7H5P0TCoAZ9PP4oNZ9-7LKUgjKHjmmGKFQaEk8nNKMRwcdTmjNlobwZ8rZA8OZ9AImCOD4OgRTv1xDEGCZNw611PPfSKcnsP8KYHRj7gh/s1600/TC651033.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="auto" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3UqRwW72seSbaXLHnohjsAaBXQn138RwXBwk7H5P0TCoAZ9PP4oNZ9-7LKUgjKHjmmGKFQaEk8nNKMRwcdTmjNlobwZ8rZA8OZ9AImCOD4OgRTv1xDEGCZNw611PPfSKcnsP8KYHRj7gh/s800/TC651033.jpg" style="position: relative; top: -35px; left: -40px;" width="760"></a></div><br>
After just two years, Toyota decided to drastically re-style the current Camry, supposedly to make it seem more fun. I don't see the point – why change what your washing machine looks like when people only care that it works?<br>
<a href="http://www.wailing-engine.com/2016/07/review-2016-toyota-camry-le.html#more"><br>Continue reading »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5545564515446381156.post-46556565305395820522016-04-03T16:18:00.000-07:002016-04-07T12:06:34.790-07:00Review: 2015 Toyota Sienna<div class="noborderdv" style="clear: both; height: 360px; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; width: 680px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi32w0di8qif6kAt3tfAeZJ9VTcpVpGNEkG3MVlfZiyNvBZLCtFlWapnNAB85ORugFq4y0VUe2Wk5itMiVYlOXYgbZMZ8T9dBsvk_tIOtG5l5uUN9nWkFO40968A7y8arUs3ObYwF0Fn7YN/s1600/RTS_200634234.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="auto" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi32w0di8qif6kAt3tfAeZJ9VTcpVpGNEkG3MVlfZiyNvBZLCtFlWapnNAB85ORugFq4y0VUe2Wk5itMiVYlOXYgbZMZ8T9dBsvk_tIOtG5l5uUN9nWkFO40968A7y8arUs3ObYwF0Fn7YN/s700/RTS_200634234.jpg" style="position: relative; top: -60px; left: -0px;" width="680"></a></div><br>
If you look at the Sienna as a tool, you won't be disappointed.<br>
<br>
It's an implement made for two purposes: carrying a bunch of people and their stuff comfortably, and being inoffensive. It succeeds in both.<br>
<br>
I'll come back to that in a bit.<br>
<a href="http://www.wailing-engine.com/2016/04/review-2015-toyota-sienna.html#more"><br>Continue reading »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5545564515446381156.post-39440545672344558522015-12-06T11:02:00.000-08:002015-12-11T16:12:00.900-08:00Review: 2015 Dodge Durango Limited<div class="noborderdv" style="clear: both; height: 360px; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; width: 680px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdLSp7PcI1zURIX8-AaKxqBuAo4HZYVXzc6EObPft1wXWc1wWxkcr6ikas9aR6TodD-FlnjXW9qLg35N-zHNe5NXAmrIvA7zekfy5NarYRC0vOg-5BYiJrkNOTTEBr0Azj1xSUrAF8LVZn/s1600/RDD_000255.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="auto" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdLSp7PcI1zURIX8-AaKxqBuAo4HZYVXzc6EObPft1wXWc1wWxkcr6ikas9aR6TodD-FlnjXW9qLg35N-zHNe5NXAmrIvA7zekfy5NarYRC0vOg-5BYiJrkNOTTEBr0Azj1xSUrAF8LVZn/s700/RDD_000255.jpg" style="position: relative; top: -140px; left: -0px;" width="680"></a></div><br>
This car feels like a limousine.<br>
<br>
Seriously! You either feel like you're chauffeuring someone or being chauffeured, depending on where you're sitting. A quick peek under the skin and it all makes sense – this car rides on the $80,000+ Mercedes GL-class' platform.<br>
<a href="http://www.wailing-engine.com/2015/12/review-2015-dodge-durango-limited.html#more"><br>Continue reading »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5545564515446381156.post-29563520229278766012015-09-08T15:32:00.000-07:002017-12-24T22:23:17.473-08:00Review: 2016 Volvo XC90 T6<div class="noborderdv" style="clear: both; height: 360px; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; width: 680px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2qIsCIoUAcU9Ee5qjSgZcER2LW87baUZl9HM8xSO3cDwtSbpiEd594uo3a9LyNhG_Ug9Am3YqNwck1Np6F_aQ-Zd0yUJLY7Q72FUbgZndujVxiC3N3qtWdkBurglx-CywWRizEOh0Etmu/s1600/XC092850.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="auto" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2qIsCIoUAcU9Ee5qjSgZcER2LW87baUZl9HM8xSO3cDwtSbpiEd594uo3a9LyNhG_Ug9Am3YqNwck1Np6F_aQ-Zd0yUJLY7Q72FUbgZndujVxiC3N3qtWdkBurglx-CywWRizEOh0Etmu/s800/XC092850.jpg" style="position: relative; top: -90px; left: -20px;" width="780"></a></div><br>
Car companies are lazy sometimes.<br>
<br>
Instead of waiting to get all the details right, they rush a car into production. The more patient ones produce cars like the Audi Q7 or original Volvo XC90 – these held their own through ten and twelve-year production runs because Audi and Volvo took their time.<br>
<br>
But this isn't always intentional: Volvo, for instance, never meant to make the XC90 for that long...<br>
<a href="http://www.wailing-engine.com/2015/09/review-2016-volvo-xc90-t6.html#more"><br>Continue reading »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5545564515446381156.post-82397640212317159132015-06-20T14:18:00.000-07:002015-06-20T15:44:37.757-07:00Why JDM Imports Are So Popular<div class="noborderdv" style="clear: both; height: 360px; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; width: 680px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPzmOfCBzHEugHyLw-wzuCoskC3Vpri6iOKsAQnzfIxDPDFaqsugENkhlXFMquNsCCzlULosEQD8t06voCRwipx-rm_NOxAaibNs44Su5jt9aBx9nCY1xEtZrhiqXYTl5t01Gy0z2ZZ6oB/s1600/Lede+JDM+Compilation+Pic+v2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="auto" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPzmOfCBzHEugHyLw-wzuCoskC3Vpri6iOKsAQnzfIxDPDFaqsugENkhlXFMquNsCCzlULosEQD8t06voCRwipx-rm_NOxAaibNs44Su5jt9aBx9nCY1xEtZrhiqXYTl5t01Gy0z2ZZ6oB/s800/Lede+JDM+Compilation+Pic+v2.png" style="position: relative; top: -4px; left: -33px;" width="740"></a></div><br>
If you lived in Vancouver in the mid-2000s, this scenario will likely be familiar.<br>
<!--https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjehfHLm4i3Xq7FA51J4Kw8BE8DaYeKWAv8fSvy8ClTkHpDL5rVGpC_L6BdxSpt3rZNEIhqwmzY9LnvN8ntGba3-7YBgYHQ486r-WRs2KI3obeiFigeRaMWbiHzBzPzr_54VnY37yS9tprT/s1600/Lede+JDM+Compilation+Pic.png top:-70 left:-60--><br>
You're sitting in traffic when you suddenly notice an oddly tall cabover van in two-tone beige and brown with curtains tucked up behind the back windows and an extra mirror hanging over the tailgate. You get closer and are more weirded out to notice it's right-hand drive!<br>
<br>
<i>"Where did this come from??"</i><br>
<a href="http://www.wailing-engine.com/2015/06/why-jdm-imports-are-so-popular.html#more"><br>Continue reading »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5545564515446381156.post-2776962469907055082015-06-14T20:08:00.001-07:002016-10-09T16:43:32.523-07:00The Wise Decision<div class="noborderdv" style="clear: both; height: 360px; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; width: 680px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2H6DM8xwGky0aJ2cuWqhH69p5bC8Wiw4gyd33i10Q-5Sx4sI61fdbcV-yyt0XaDHIOqgGzBrXpvgjHwwUf7VCV31WXinjMDXOnFZQp_fn_dzan4Pq6zP-zUcxh8ZPrgcwMlrRjYHUzLJ6/s1600/DSC06912.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="auto" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2H6DM8xwGky0aJ2cuWqhH69p5bC8Wiw4gyd33i10Q-5Sx4sI61fdbcV-yyt0XaDHIOqgGzBrXpvgjHwwUf7VCV31WXinjMDXOnFZQp_fn_dzan4Pq6zP-zUcxh8ZPrgcwMlrRjYHUzLJ6/s800/DSC06912.JPG" style="position: relative; top: -30px; left: -0px;" width="680"></a></div><br>
I hadn't made any repair or diagnostic attempts since I drove the car last in October. My plan was to wait until I had the opportunity to drop the car off at my mechanic's, so he could perform the same magic to the engine that he did to the electrical system the last time my car was there.<br>
<br>
However, the opportunity arose to take it to a local show, scheduled for today. While pushing it to start practically every time isn't exactly anyone's idea of a relaxing Sunday drive, it would be doable if the car didn't drive any worse than it did last year.<br>
<a href="http://www.wailing-engine.com/2015/06/the-wise-decision.html#more"><br>Continue reading »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5545564515446381156.post-65096600958546462122015-05-04T10:03:00.000-07:002015-12-11T16:14:06.063-08:00Review: 2015 Subaru Impreza Limited w/ EyeSight<div class="noborderdv" style="clear: both; height: 360px; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; width: 680px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIQ2CY-hqYBcTpNihV0vY_24pSOY5x3p-n7mMEXESFer8FTqrYZEpZRw_684S5oYIYXiJ8H6Jm7v26EG6yrcAtvg8Lgdwgt1ZgGYTXj9yUmZNlvNMOBgdni-H6HYY-VYok-JQJZ53iyy-x/s1600/S_125542.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="auto" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIQ2CY-hqYBcTpNihV0vY_24pSOY5x3p-n7mMEXESFer8FTqrYZEpZRw_684S5oYIYXiJ8H6Jm7v26EG6yrcAtvg8Lgdwgt1ZgGYTXj9yUmZNlvNMOBgdni-H6HYY-VYok-JQJZ53iyy-x/s800/S_125542.jpg" style="position: relative; top: -70px; left: -20px;" width="760"></a></div><br>
I'm merging onto the highway in my Impreza tester when a thought hits me – this car has semi-autonomous cruise control!<br>
<br>
The bleeding edge of driving tech was at my fingertips. I'd first disappoint myself and then all of you if I didn't press this big, glowing red button...<br>
<br>
Well, there isn't actually a big, glowing red button so much as a small army of little black ones on the steering wheel – and I had no idea which one to press.<br>
<a href="http://www.wailing-engine.com/2015/05/review-2015-subaru-impreza-limited-w.html#more"><br>Continue reading »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5545564515446381156.post-52274182015432400452014-10-23T15:11:00.001-07:002014-10-23T15:11:16.793-07:00The repair, part II<div class="noborderdv" style="clear: both; height: 360px; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; width: 680px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqQYJBwz1j1QYkiGEIx8713WRAB5TdS0Rev40P_F39FRzjKzKKJjHIsfxPFO4sHf5Vxw4cMytwOjqRdS3SEC588gxlQBUCoc3ywA15O_VSCf_NGQwKQk-SP8t-j9hyWepr7Anfa9vpPkR9/s1600/750_161649.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="auto" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqQYJBwz1j1QYkiGEIx8713WRAB5TdS0Rev40P_F39FRzjKzKKJjHIsfxPFO4sHf5Vxw4cMytwOjqRdS3SEC588gxlQBUCoc3ywA15O_VSCf_NGQwKQk-SP8t-j9hyWepr7Anfa9vpPkR9/s700/750_161649.jpg" style="position: relative; top: -60px;" width="700"></a></div><br>
The engine has finally been tuned, and I noticed an immediate improvement. Here's what was done.<br>
<a href="http://www.wailing-engine.com/2014/10/the-repair-part-ii.html#more"><br>Continue reading »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5545564515446381156.post-88668285309223151932014-09-23T21:50:00.001-07:002014-10-03T01:12:41.698-07:00The repair, part I<div class="noborderdv" style="clear: both; height: 360px; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; width: 680px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlqR_qvf64LOSSs9Qv7BuYKFbV4hENK7lzCjSbcRGlO6nyj_GFsiw2SJlysfp2k0TcodTjXDdJM2ja1JCvxyRpgug76CclVKpAeMsLL23tlQbP2OLczHEp0_uPvw0IrsDuXD6bCo77Y6Cz/s1600/750_193543.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="auto" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlqR_qvf64LOSSs9Qv7BuYKFbV4hENK7lzCjSbcRGlO6nyj_GFsiw2SJlysfp2k0TcodTjXDdJM2ja1JCvxyRpgug76CclVKpAeMsLL23tlQbP2OLczHEp0_uPvw0IrsDuXD6bCo77Y6Cz/s700/750_193543.jpg" style="position: relative; top: -130px;" width="700"></a></div><br>
I've said it before and I'll say it again: with every delay is a valuable learning experience. When <a href="http://www.wailing-engine.com/2014/09/maiden-voyage-insert-titanic-reference.html">the throttle cable snapped</a>, we were to replace it along with the clutch cable (out of precaution) and do an engine tune all in one repair.<br>
<br>
After swapping the cables out, we ran out of time.<br>
<br>
The good news is I verified what the new cables alone specifically improved.<br>
<a href="http://www.wailing-engine.com/2014/09/the-repair-part-i.html#more"><br>Continue reading »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5545564515446381156.post-52878467931140615312014-09-17T19:11:00.000-07:002015-12-11T16:16:05.407-08:002015 Golf Driving Experience (part 2 of 2)<div class="noborderdv" style="clear: both; height: 360px; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; width: 680px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDR0q5eyIeheLCGMiao93ifG6L2bmRwQb1zKmZmdeCGEpXJ_7ISvezu0_pKgkesuX_RJutEApFdZN_8nZD0FNhbAQW6Bvbkgi4_7_DD6uidVTE2VgCZ0g9VMODmBgXOs-eXO8QhrMfkT-b/s1600/VGE_113404.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="auto" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDR0q5eyIeheLCGMiao93ifG6L2bmRwQb1zKmZmdeCGEpXJ_7ISvezu0_pKgkesuX_RJutEApFdZN_8nZD0FNhbAQW6Bvbkgi4_7_DD6uidVTE2VgCZ0g9VMODmBgXOs-eXO8QhrMfkT-b/s700/VGE_113404.jpg" style="position: relative; top: -70px;" width="700"></a></div><br>
So, the Mk VII Golf. It's the newest generation model that's now on sale in North America, and it's based on VW's new modular (MQB) platform.<br>
<br>
In essence, certain sections of the platform can be enlarged or shrunk, then assembled like Lego bricks. Thus, they can make a variety of different cars with those underpinnings, the Golf and GTI featured below being the first.<br>
<br>
Greater economies of scale are the result for VW; more equipment for the same price is the result for us.<br>
<a href="http://www.wailing-engine.com/2014/09/2015-golf-driving-experience-part-2-of-2.html#more"><br>Continue reading »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5545564515446381156.post-5728954860055092062014-09-15T12:47:00.000-07:002014-10-01T20:50:03.971-07:002015 Golf Driving Experience (part 1 of 2)<div class="noborderdv" style="clear: both; height: 360px; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; width: 680px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTxctAMyogngJ-I0tUm78YhvYuVoqrewyfo3KJznkQ7Zg-kaZP6ubUJioKfRz36cuSIORTYR3m3_hlRrq6xfxSGqXdXIfCi-Jnwl0TsXjJ1N0qGNFYk_mqZruwhRPHB2R__bqU7Jk3_C7Q/s1600/VGE_112137.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="auto" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTxctAMyogngJ-I0tUm78YhvYuVoqrewyfo3KJznkQ7Zg-kaZP6ubUJioKfRz36cuSIORTYR3m3_hlRrq6xfxSGqXdXIfCi-Jnwl0TsXjJ1N0qGNFYk_mqZruwhRPHB2R__bqU7Jk3_C7Q/s700/VGE_112137.jpg" style="position: relative; top: -20px;" width="700"></a></div><br>
Six minutes of driving time is not an experience.<br>
<br>
The venue was good. The organization was good. Even the presentation bits beforehand were fairly good. Everything was drastically better than last year's event, except the most important part: the driving.<br>
<br>
There were two tracks with one car to try each. We only got two laps per track. By 'virtue' of this, we learned next to nothing about what the cars can <i>actually</i> do – though it seemed that the drivers and presenters didn't quite know, either...<br>
<a href="http://www.wailing-engine.com/2014/09/2015-golf-driving-experience-part-1-of-2.html#more"><br>Continue reading »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5545564515446381156.post-72825248827836439502014-09-08T16:43:00.001-07:002014-09-30T20:04:55.783-07:00Maiden voyage (insert Titanic reference here)<div class="noborderdv" style="clear: both; height: 360px; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; width: 680px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUSW3Dt7wneQp2z5cImYz2RXy89odcTnxJcXGjadSgFz7GoTQvgNg_WEVI8C870RhAkIIuY9vKll3OT7WwGQH4SBMQgdhz-hCNG4_EbaLTRfyPUtoZUbpdlujeby6wt7zpQqgziDG2PzfS/s1600/DSC06715.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="auto" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUSW3Dt7wneQp2z5cImYz2RXy89odcTnxJcXGjadSgFz7GoTQvgNg_WEVI8C870RhAkIIuY9vKll3OT7WwGQH4SBMQgdhz-hCNG4_EbaLTRfyPUtoZUbpdlujeby6wt7zpQqgziDG2PzfS/s700/DSC06715.JPG" style="position: relative; top: -30px;" width="700"></a></div><br>
The car had only been driven about 200km since the restoration ended. I'd never have expected to be in this position so soon, even after a botched restoration. At least we were near the end of the drive at this point...<br>
<a href="http://www.wailing-engine.com/2014/09/maiden-voyage-insert-titanic-reference.html#more"><br>Continue reading »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0