Old Chevy Trucks

Auto Parts Eight concerns in 2007

admin — Mon, 06 Sep 2010 07:00:16 +0000

The 2007 Models Are Here

admin — Mon, 06 Sep 2010 04:58:12 +0000

Months ago, in a related article, I covered five new or revised car models set to be launched on the North American market. The Jaguar XK, Saturn Sky, Toyota FJ Cruiser, Land Rover Freelander, and Dodge Nitro are already in showrooms or soon to make their appearance there. Beyond these five there are quite a number of other models also being planned and some have already been released. Let’s take a look at five more models catching the attention of auto enthusiasts everywhere.Nissan Versa – Yes, Nissan has its own Scion fighter planned and just in time too as two other cars, the Honda Fit and Toyota Yaris, will also be making their debut in the fast crowding Generation “Y” category. The Versa looks more like a Toyota Matrix as opposed to the bread box looking Scion xB. Available as a four door sedan or five door hatchback, the car will come equipped not stripped and include an AM/FM/CD sound system, air conditioning, 6 speed manny tranny, and power mirrors as standard equipment. Best of all, the roomy Versa will be priced at about $12,000, right in Scion territory.Saturn Aura – Finally, General Motors is paying some serious attention to Saturn, its “sometime” division. Now that Oldsmobile is out of the way, GM appears ready to take a look at how best to position the Saturn brand. Thanks to GM’s European division, Opel, Saturn looks as if it will benefit from a few new models and the Aura sedan is one of them. Powered by a 3.6L V6, the Aura is shapely, stylish, and much more inviting than its “L Series” predecessor which was also Opel inspired. Dodge Caliber – Dodge’s Neon replacement goes where no small Dodge has gone before it. The five door wagon/hatchback sits on beefy 19 inch wheels and incorporates the aggressive Dodge crosshairs grille so popular on all of its vehicles. Three engine choices including 1.8L, 2.0L, and 2.4L I4s set the vehicle apart from the crowd. Dodge will be marketing the car well beyond North America in DCX’s quest to spread the Dodge brand worldwide. With a base price around $14,000 the Caliber will be competitive. Still, a Mexican built Scion like “Hornet” will likely become the entry level car within a few years as DCX prepares to take on Scion and the coming cheaply priced Chinese cars.Volkswagen Minivan – A yet to be named minivan will soon be marketed by Volkswagen. Not much has to be done by VW to prepare for the vehicle’s arrival as it will be a rebadged version of Chrysler’s successful minivans, the Caravan and Town & Country. Yes, VW is turning to its German competitor to fill a void in its line up. For its part, VW will be sharing technology with DCX in the form of the Scion like Dodge Hornet to be built in Mexico. The Hornet will be based on the VW Polo, another vehicle that may be imported to the US market.Ford Edge – The crossover market heats up with the introduction of the Ford Edge. Marketed between the Escape and Explorer, the Edge will be powered by a 3.5L V6 and be available as front wheel drive people mover or in all wheel drive. Lincoln gets a gussied up version of the Edge called the Aviator.Other vehicles being introduced include full size trucks and SUVs for General Motors, the Saturn Sky convertible, a revamped Toyota Camry, and new offerings from Kia, Hyundai, and Honda.The choices for consumers continues to broaden and model year 2007 will be no exception.

Florida Car Rental Services

admin — Mon, 06 Sep 2010 04:58:11 +0000

Car Rental in Florida is must for those who want to fully appreciate a state like Florida and want to enjoy all beauty spots. We specialise in online bookings for car hire in Florida USA through major car suppliers such as Alamo, Hertz Dollar and Budget. We have extensive car hire facilities in Florida, covering all major cities and several outlying centres. In the north,we cover most places,including Tallahassee, Jacksonville and pensacola,while in central Florida; we can supply vehicles in Orlando, Tampa and Sanford.And in South of the State you will find us in Miami, palm Beach and Key West. We give pick up or drop off the car. We offer instant online quotes booking capabilities for all inclusive cheap hire car rentals, with an online discount of 10 – 15% and great deals to both business travellers and holiday travellers. Also provide one way rentals across all our Florida outlets including city and airport locations. We are generally much cheaper than travel agents who apply a mark-up. Use the instant Quote to get an exact price for your car hire requirements. If you like the price you can then order securely on-line with a credit card. See details below if you prefer to pay by cheque, or order by phone. We are focused on driving down the cost of Florida car hire. We have a wide selection of quality vehicles for your leisure or business car rental needs from economy and compact car models. We are one of the fastest growing Florida Car rental specialists in the UK.We aim to have the lowest car rental rates available and are able to do this because we sell car hire and Disney tickets mainly via the Internet, passing the cost savings on to you. We have endeavoured to add many features to this site which will allow you plan most aspects of your driving holiday in Florida.Our Florida car rental locations feature new and like-new cars, trucks and vans, and we always strive to have the best prices on auto rentals. With our locations in Orange park, Leesburg, Orlando, Lakeland, Venice, Fort Myers,Fort Lauderdale, Bonita Springs and Miami – you’ll find a Florida rental car location close to you. We’ve included information on the best scenic driving routesFlorida car rental helps you to find perfect accommodation in hotel, motel and perfect lounges, for rest and amusements. We have has teamed up with some premier airline and hotel partners to offer our car rental customers some great rewards. For our UK based clients we can arrange car hire and travel insurance.For those of you wanting to arrange a golfing holiday you will find a detailed list of the Golf courses close to your vacation rental villas. We have a section covering the Golf area attractions – use this to carefully plan Florida Vacation.Also we provide you with all information about what are place to see in Florida,weather forecast, driving rules and regulations for those who are new to driving in US. Hurry up now visit our site and get an opportunity to feel for these places and to scope out the car hire situation there. Book the car right off the page, and then be sure your car is waiting for you to come

An Introduction to Hybrid Cars

admin — Mon, 06 Sep 2010 02:58:22 +0000

The term “hybrid” means that something is mixed with its original form. The hybrid is a car that has both an electric and a gas motor to run it. But, unlike electric cars of yesteryear, the hybrid will recharge itself, hence no need to plug it into an outlet. The gasoline engines in these cars are smaller than in standard vehicles and where they leave off the electric engine takes over. The hybrid can work on just one of these engines, but hybrid owners will use both to conserve on fuel.What’s Under The Hood?Most hybrids use the gasoline engine primarily. But when more power is needed, the electric motor kicks in. In the gasoline motor, there is energy conservation, for example, it instantly shuts off when the vehicle stops. When you hit the pedal again, the engine smoothly turns back on. Meanwhile, the battery keeps all of your appliances on — lights, radio and other needed features. Because the gasoline engine cuts off and on, it is usually virtually silent. This can confuse the driver and parking attendants, who may think the car is off, but it is actually on. Fortunately, an indicator light has been added, showing the status of the engine. BenefitsOne huge benefit of the hybrid is the fuel savings — it offers up to 60 miles per gallon. Because of the high cost of gasoline, this makes the hybrid a very popular choice. Not only do they use less gas, though, they also emit fewer pollutants into the air. In fact, they are up to 90% cleaner than other vehicles. Because the engines are small and efficient, they reduce their total exhaust emissions. This makes them environmentally friendly.There are many corporations offering incentives such as free parking to those who drive hybrids.Plus, the US government in offering attractive tax incentives to lure new buyers who are on the fence. ConstructionThere are many differences between the hybrid and conventional cars. One is the construction of hybrids. Made of aluminum and plastic, they are lightweight in their design, which in turn makes them able to be powered by smaller, lighter engines. Many would fear that this offers less protection than other cars, but the fact is they are just as safe. Additional strength is created by manufacturers using panels in specialized shapes to reinforce the strength of the material to resist impact.Who Makes Them?The 2 major manufacturers are Honda Motors and Toyota Motor Corporation. They brought hybrid vehicles to the US in 2000. The first were the Honda Insight and the Toyota Prius. Both had great success. There are now plans for a sport utility vehicle to be made as well as full size trucks through hybrid mechanics. This will be quite popular to many drivers. The hybrids that are on the market are well liked. With all of the environmental issues today as well as the high cost of gas, there is no wonder why this is so. The bottom line is that hybrid cars are effectively lowering the cost of powering a vehicle and keeping the Earth clean. Hybrid technology offers a highly effective way of moving from place to place.

Renowned Artist Makes Auto News

admin — Mon, 06 Sep 2010 01:00:35 +0000

When you think of automobile news, you may not expect to read about a renowned artist. However, a recent automobile news release contained just that. An artist, his talent and an innovative company looking to change the way you look at windshields is the current focus of much media attention and automobile news.In an automotive news announcement made, Window Canvas, the leader in Exterior Applied See-Thru Window Graphics for cars, trucks and SUVs, confirmed an agreement with well-known artist Jeff Wilkie. The exclusive contract was signed with Persistence of Vision, which gave Window Canvas the license to represent the art of Jeff Wilkie on their vehicle graphics.If you have ever noticed a rear windshield with an impressive, and colorful, image covering the entire back glass, then you are already familiar with the concept of transparent window graphics. They prevent viewing the interior from the rear, but allow the passengers and driver to see out. Window graphics are often quite detailed and beautiful, which is the concept behind Windows Canvas and their new artwork license with Jeff Wilkie.”Jeff’s breathtaking artwork is the perfect addition to Window Canvas and our image library,” commented Bianca J. Hennings, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Window Canvas. According to the recent automobile news release, Hennings concluded, “We are very excited about his imagery being displayed on people’s cars all over the country and even the world.”Jeff Wilkie is an accomplished artist whose collections include both ocean and marine life images. Among the many depictions, Wilkie portrays an artistic image of dolphins, seascapes, whales and other wildlife. “I am very happy to have my artwork added to their line of products,” Jeff admits. His work has been licensed for a variety of products, including greeting cards, puzzles, t-shirts and computer mouse pads. To add even more credence to Wilkie’s art, his images have been offered as part of the fine art prize category on “The Price Is Right” televised game show. The products featuring Wilkie’s art are constantly ranked number one in sales. Beginning in the spring of 2006, his art will also be featured on checks, checkbook covers, address labels and wall murals throughout the United States. Window Canvas is the recognized leader in exterior applied see-thru window graphics for automobiles. Their website features more than 2,000 images, including patriotic, flags, sports, personal expressions, nature, military and camouflage scenes. In addition to their many options, Window Canvas also offers website visitors with an opportunity to customize their own rear window graphics using a patent pending technology feature called “Create Your Own.”An artist who loves to create images and a company who loves to incorporate them into windows have come together to generate widespread automobile news attention. Websites and various industry publications are sure to be among the first to report automobile news and especially when it’s as beautiful as Wilkie’s artwork.

1962 Ford Falcon

admin — Mon, 06 Sep 2010 01:00:34 +0000

The Ford Falcon was produced by the Ford Motor Corporation between 1960 and 1970 and it originally was a great success for the company. Compared with other compact cars of the day, it was offered in a great selection of trim levels and body styles, making it one of the most customizable cars. It is also important to note that the Falcon name was also used on the original lineup of Ford’s Econoline Vans. The 1962 Ford Falcon is part of the original generation produced from 1960 to 1963, which are possibly the most popular model years as well.

Once Ford realized that there actually was a market for smaller cars, they quickly began production of the Falcon. The biggest competitors for the car were the Chevy Corvair, Studebaker Lark and AMC Rambler. Perhaps the thing that set Ford apart from the other manufacturers was that they still had the ability to produce reliable cars at a very affordable price. The Falcon could be purchase for practically less than any other, and came with a great selection of features.

Body styles available for the 1962 Ford Falcon include a 2 door sedan, 4 door sedan, 3 door station wagon, 5 door station wagon, 2 door hardtop, 2 door convertible, 2 door pickup truck, and a 2 door sedan delivery. With 7 different body styles to choose from it is no wonder that these cars became very popular, there was virtually a model for any need. The available engines could be mismatched between cars, along with the available features for the interior. Most suspension systems and other features were streamlined as to be available on all models as well.

Engines offered include a 2.4 liter inline six cylinder engine (245 cu in), a 2.8 liter inline 6 cylinder, along with a 4.3 liter V8 engine (260 cu in). Most of the smaller 2 door and 3 door models were equipped with the smaller inline 6, except for the convertible which came with the option of a larger engine. The larger vehicles with 4 or 5 doors and the delivery model usually came with the option of the larger inline 6, or the V8 option. The transmission included a 2 speed automatic, 3 speed manual, and a 4 speed manual.

The ‘62 model year also saw the introduction of the Squire model of the 4 door station wagon. This was the beginning of the typical wood paneled wagon which became a part of American history. Also available was the Futura model which was a slightly fancier version of the 1962 Ford Falcon. Inside owners got upgraded upholstery, factory installed safety belts, unique body emblems, and a set of different body trims. Most models were redesigned so that they would be more similar to that of a Thunderbird. Another model available was the 2 door Futura Sedan “Illusion Hardtop” which used only a flat rear window with chrome trim.

While the Ford Falcon was very popular immediately after its creation, by the end of the decade it quickly became outdated. Nonetheless it still remain an important part of American history and has been sough after by many enthusiasts. The popularity and large scale production back in the 60’s makes finding original parts relatively easy. Buyers looking to restore an old car may want to consider one of the many Falcon models.

Once You Reach 50, Do You Really Need Improvement?

admin — Mon, 06 Sep 2010 01:00:28 +0000

Editor At ThePlus50Crowd.com

Anyone remember puberty? It was God awful! We spent our days agonizing over our bodies, hair, clothing and whether Bobby Sherman would ever love us. Okay, maybe it was just me (and 3 million other girls) fixated on Bobby Sherman, but life was far from easy. Waking to find a pimple on my forehead left me tramatized for days. Our whole self worth was based on our physical appearance, which we were never happy with. How many of us today would kill to have our 16 year old figures back? You bet! None of us had any idea of how truly perfect we were. Emotionally we were a train wreck, but physically… we were Goddesses.

When my 20’s came around, I had a child, bills, a husband and laundry to worry about. For those of us who married young (I was 19 years old), responsibilities came quickly. I don’t know how Doris Day did it. At the end of the day she looked perfect. I was covered in sweat, food stains and baby goop. My house was clean and my yard was perfectly manicured…. just not me. There was never enough energy left for me. I have to admit, I loved being a mom (still do) and I was very happy being a stay at home mom. The shoe was a perfect fit.

Next thing I knew the 30’s arrived. Financially things were easier in my 30’s and I felt I had a better grip on my life. I was more comfortable in my skin and I felt hopeful about the future. I was a good wife, a good mother, a good daughter, a good friend, plus work was going well (I now had a full time job out side the home). My husband and I had excellent credit, good friends and we took fantastic vacations. We also were on our second BMW which gave us a false sense of arrival. What is it with the car we drive and our egos? Why couldn’t we have felt good about ourselves and driven a Ford? We certainly would have saved a small fortune in buying a Ford verses a BMW. When I see people scooting about in their BMW’s I laugh. We are what we eat…. and we are what we drive. These days I’m powered by caffiene, sugar and a 25 year old Chevy.

When my 40’s arrived, my life took an unexpectant twist. A divorce, a teenager who rebelled, huge financial responsibilities and the loss of my home and credit. I hung on to hope that all would turn out well, because that’s what we are told. You work hard, do your best and everything will simply work it’s self out. What a crock. You can work your butt off and still get hit by a truck. The guy next to you can waste his entire life sitting on a curb and still win the lottery. There is no justice in this world. God isn’t going to save you. He may walk beside you in good times and bad… but he won’t save you. If you fall in to a deep hole and no one knows you are there… you will die. God loves you and cares about you, but still, you will die.

During my 40’s I dated, which I never did during my teenage years. As a bonder, I always end up in long term relationships. I have never been a serial dater or a one night stand. Sleep with me (if you dare) and you’ll be dating me for 5 years. That’s just how it goes. Even when I knew the guy wasn’t right, I still hung on tight to the relationship because emotionally… I had bonded. Bonding is highly overrated. This from a person who at 55 has had a total of 3 relationships in her life, because she bonds.

Welcome to the 50’s. I didn’t mind turning 50 at all. Funny, I thought it would devastate me, but it didn’t. I like being a baby boomer with graying hair, slightly rounded belly and wrinkles. It suits me. My arms, my butt, my thighs… all covered in dimples. I don’t care. Well, it’s not like I enjoy the dimples, but I’m not upset about the dimples. Babies have dimples and we think they’re cute. This is just mother nature’s right of passage. We’re reverting back to our baby shells and we have to accept it. Soon we’ll be shrinking in height. I know my feet are getting smaller. A size 8 used to fit perfectly; now a size 7 1/2 is more comfortable. I’m sure one morning I will wake and no longer be 5′ 6″, but 5′ 4″… which is okay. Petite people always look younger in age (at least from the back). Maybe one day I’ll be too, short to ride a roller coaster and then I can’t be pester to go on rides. ”Hey, I’d love to ride the roller coaster with you, but I’m too, short”. The fact I’m claustrophobic, afraid of heights and that I throw up never seems to be a good enough reason. No one can argue with “too, short”. It’s an insurance thing you know.

I’m enjoying my 50’s. I like me with all my imperfections. Why? Because I don’t dwell on the fact I’m imperfect. In fact, it’s my right to be imperfect. I’ve lived a long time, I’ve suffered immensely, I’ve paid the price to grow old gracefully. Which is what I plan to do. Grow old and enjoy every day of it. Turning 60, 70 and 80 isn’t the end (unless of course your number is up and then it is the end). Age it’s self isn’t bad. It’s fighting aging that causes us disstress. (Do you really want to end up looking like Joan Rivers?) We need to accept ourselves and our lives for what they are; not for what we are told they should be.

Mazda Navajo: A Two-Door SUV

admin — Mon, 06 Sep 2010 01:00:27 +0000

Introduced in 1991 and sold only in the United States, the Mazda Navajo is a sport utility vehicle that sported two doors. It was made available as a four wheel drive. The Mazda Navajo has been crafted so as to target the market for sporty SUVs. In essence, critics have commented that this vehicle is just a Ford Explorer with the brand name changed to Mazda. This vehicle has been offered in two trim levels which comprise of the base and the LX. The trivia is that the entire vehicle was bought from the Ford Motor Company by Mazda and Mazda just added in its own grille, tail lamps and some minor body trim. This makes things easier in differentiating the two mentioned vehicles, the Mazda Navajo has a different grille, different tail lights, as well as wheels because of that very reason. However, comparing the interior of the vehicles, both contained very much the same features except for the seat fabrics and the steering wheel hub which proved to be the only things setting these two vehicles apart. The Mazda Navajo base sports standard power windows, power locks and power windows. The Mazda Navajo LX trim, on the other hand, adds up other features like extra interior illumination and a steering wheel wrapped in leather. Optional packages for accessorizing and sprucing up the vehicle include luxurious features like air conditioning, a stereo system with cassette deck, a cruise control, sports seats that show off power lumbar adjustment, and a pop up and removable moonroof. Standard features for the Mazda Navajo include a part time electronic Touch-Drive 4WD system, rear antilock brakes that operate only in 2-wheel drives, four wheel anti-lock brakes, and a split folding rear seat.What have changed for the Mazda Navajo were only a few minor details that gave the Ford Explorer a chance to move up the ranks. The Mazda Navajo received an optional CD player, and new five-spoke alloy wheels. Sales became quite low for this vehicle, thus the company has decided to drop this SUV out of its line up and replace it with the Mazda Tribute. However, in spite of this, the vehicle still held the title of Motor Trend magazine’s Truck of the Year award for 1991. The Mazda Navajo has suffered from a poor fuel economy, a not so spectacular ride, and driving noise. However, these were overpowered by the advantages that the vehicle sported. The list includes an excellent acceleration, a spacious passenger and cargo room, 4WD traction, and anti-lock brakes. The Mazda Navajo also would be a better choice if compared with the Ford Explorer. After all, the parts are all the same. It is in the value for money that makes the difference between the two. Likewise, Mazda Parts and Mazda 323 Parts has a supercharged line up of innovative Mazda auto body parts that play an integral part in any replacement needs for Mazda vehicles. These superior Mazda auto parts could push Mazda vehicles’ performance to the next level. The best Mazda auto parts are found at Mazda Parts and Mazda Auto Parts’ online store. The collection includes air intake parts, brakes, climate control, clutch parts, electrical parts, suspension and a whole lot more.

Remote Control Cars from Kyosho

admin — Sun, 05 Sep 2010 23:03:31 +0000

Do you want that super fast RC car? Use nitro! RC on steroids.The cheering of the crowd, the adrenaline rush of the players and the mounting excitement overwhelming the scene say it all. Indeed, when it comes to racing, RC cars are pretty fascinating!RC cars, otherwise known as remote control or radio control cars, are gathering the smoke in the hobby racing arena. It grabs the spotlight like a newly launched rocket. As a fact, RC racing is swiftly attracting both the young and the old to savor the excitement and nerve-racking thrill brought about by RC cars. If you are not yet hooked by this new racing phenomenon, brace yourself and discover the pleasure of this hobby. RC cars are famed at a hobby level. The hobby becomes more and more addicting. The sight of both men and women in various age groups racing RC cars is no longer novel to the eyes. Nowadays, RC racing is introduced to a higher level of racing involvement. With fine tuning and professional RC racers around, RC racing can be deemed to be more than just an ordinary hobby.RC cars can be purchased unassembled in a kit, in a completely assembled, or in ready to run (rtr) condition. RC cars are now offered with a wide-variety of options. They come in different styles, colors, built, and features. If you are planning to purchase RC cars, be sure that you are getting the best that you can have. Options include electric or gas powered RC cars, on-road and off-road models, assembled or unassembled, and car or truck models.You may ask, which between gas powered and electric RC car is the best choice? Well, the most influential factor in choosing RC car is the source of power. There are pros and cons in possessing both models. A nitro powered RC car, as its name implies, run on nitro gasoline. This type of RC car is the most popular in the arena. It is also the fastest growing segment in RC cars. Nitro RC vehicles boast their power and speed. They can actually jump at high speed and smoothly drive on the roads without staggering. Generally, nitro powered RC cars run faster than their electric counterparts. In addition, there are some that can run as fast as 70 mph. Moreover, high-speed driving thrills you, a nitro powered RC car is the best for you.Gas powered RC cars run on specially formulated fuel. Most of them employ a pull start engine that can be likened to a lawnmower. However, one drawback of this RC car type is that it can be complicated. You have to carefully follow the instructions to make it function well. Nonetheless, nitro cars are not good for beginners.Electric RC cars, on the other hand, are user-friendly. They run on batteries. Most of these batteries are made rechargeable. They are easy to operate and care for. Electric RC cars are inexpensive. If your finances are precluding you from buying expensive RC cars, electric RC cars can be your most feasible solution. Indeed, electric RC cars are great for beginners in the RC car arena. An electric RC car can serve as your first RC car. You can practice on it to perfect your driving skills without wasting hefty money. In fact, you can buy electric RC car for any budget. The drawback of this type is that it is slower compared to nitro powered car. If you plan to purchase an electric RC car, be sure to slowly break in the motor. This is to done to extend the life of the motor and to attain its full potentials.

is Daimler-Chrysler a Merger? Or is it an Acquisition?

admin — Sun, 05 Sep 2010 20:58:03 +0000

In 1998 Daimler-Benz and the Chrysler Corporation tied the knot. The newly created DaimlerChrysler [DCX] conglomerate was touted in the business world as a merger of equals with both companies retaining their unique and distinct identities. Soon after the merger the honeymoon period abruptly ended and the rancor began. Diametrically opposite management and cultural differences contributed to deep divisions which nearly scuttled the new relationship. Today, things are much different than they were in 1998; however it remains to be seen whether the long term partnership between the German and American automakers will outlast the deep, mutual distrust that prevailed for so many years.A changing global automobile market during the final decade of the 20th century signaled the end of small, independent automakers. Although fairly large in size, the Chrysler Corporation, which nearly vanished in the early 1980s, was once again nearing a crisis point: a rapidly changing market meant that large amounts of cash would be needed to keep their product line up to date as well as to take their product to emerging and lucrative new markets. Unlike in the early 1980s when the US federal government stepped in with much needed cash, no government suitor was expected this time around. For Chrysler, the long term strategy strongly suggested that the automaker would have to be acquired in order to survive. In stepped Daimler-Benz.At first, the merger was hailed as the deal of the century. The combined automakers, roughly the same size, quickly became the fifth largest automaker in the world. Combining German engineering – Mercedes being the principle business – and North American marketing – the Jeep line and the Chrysler minivans being the biggest draw – many envisioned that the new company would quickly capture a bigger slice of the global market. Unfortunately, the dream was nearly scuttled and for the following reasons:An American president of the Chrysler Group, Jim Holden, was replaced by a German appointee, Dieter Zetsche. This change occurred as Chrysler was experiencing difficulty in the marketplace; additional senior American personnel had also left and were replaced by German executives too. Some felt that the Germans were imposing their will on the Americans.Billionaire shareholder Kirk Kerkorian who owned 36 million shares of Chrysler before the merger and now held significant number of shares of DCX stock, filed suit in 2000 alleging that certain Daimler-Benz officials has committed “fraud and deceit” in orchestrating the merger. Adding fuel to the fire was the closing out of the Plymouth brand. Already suspicious of German intentions and knowing full well that the “merger of equals” was, in fact, an acquisition of Chrysler by Daimler-Benz, the ending of the Plymouth brand escalated fears that the Chrysler Group would fade into the background.Fortunately, time has eased some of the friction and the Chrysler Group [defined as the part of DaimlerChrysler that was at one time the Chrysler Corporation] has benefited from the merger in several ways, including:New Mercedes inspired products. The Chrysler Crossfire was the first of several new Mercedes inspired products to find their way into the Chrysler Group. Made in Germany, the Crossfire is essentially a rebadged Mercedes roadster, a model that the top of the line Chrysler division never had.Strengthening of the Dodge name. Already a decent performer, the Dodge division has received several Mercedes M class inspired models including the Magnum and the Charger. The Viper has been redone, the Ram trucks updated, and the Neon is in the process of being replaced. Dodge market share is increasing even in the face of strong foreign competition.Fresh blood for Jeep. An all new 7 passenger Commander has hit the streets and additional products are being planned.Likely, Mercedes would have survived without a merger, while Chrysler would not have. Overcoming strong cultural differences – German authoritarian vs. American creativity – has kept the company afloat. Some are crediting Zetsche’s understanding of the American company and culture with easing tensions, thus allowing the companies to benefit from what they have in common versus their differences.Certainly, the rancor that existed just a few years ago seems to have eased. For DCX to survive and grow a mutual trust and respect of German and American cultural differences and business practices is necessary. Without both, renewed hostilities will surface and potentially scuttle what is still perceived by many as to be a fragile business relationship.