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The car Thunderbird had been around for many years. But sadly in the year 2005, Ford decided to stop manufacturing these vehicles. Coincidentally it was also just around the time of the vehicle’s fiftieth anniversary.

The 2005 model is a little different from the original Thunderbird that was manufactured fifty years ago. The 2005 Thunderbird is quite a luxurious convertible. It has three trims for all budgets, ranging from the deluxe package to the fiftieth anniversary package. The 2005 model is equipped with a 3.9 liters,V8 and 280 horsepower engine.

This last Thunderbird still holds its heritage of being a roadster with perennial style. This fact alone has appealed to many drivers over the years. However, within the last fifty years more options have been made available for the interior of the car. This appealed to many people and thus increased the market.

The 2005 model offers features such as air conditioning with dual-zone automatic climate controls, leather wrapped steering wheel that have radio controls mounted on it, and much much more. The outside of the car consists of features like power folding soft top heated rear window or a removable hardtop with porthole windows.

Safety and security is a priority as well as luxury, just as in any of the Ford vehicles. The 2005 Thunderbird is a first for Ford; it is their first vehicle to have front, side, and a combination of head-and-chest side airbags. Protection from all sides if it will be needed. Ford is paving a new way of how we look at vehicle safety.

To keep it short, there are many new features that make the 2005 Thunderbird unique, but still have the style that everyone fell in love with fifty years ago. Go and check it out and judge for yourself, you’ll be quite surprised at what it has to offer.

So, you think you know your cars now, do you? Well, consider this to be a test of your knowledge of Pontiac history. 21 Pontiacs are featured here: some are current models while others are truly classic in every sense of the word, dating back to the early 1960s.

6000 – Full sized [or almost] front wheel drive sedan of the 1980s.

Aztec – Ugly is as ugly does. This crossover vehicle ashamed the Pontiac fleet for two years during the early 00s.

Bonneville – Full sized Pontiac sedan excitement retired in 2005 after more than 40 years of service. Part of GM’s massive restructuring and retiring of top model names.

Catalina – This model hearkens back to the mid 60s when two door hard tops ruled the day. Discontinued during the late 70s during GM’s “down sizing” shell game days.

Fiero – Mid-engine sport two-seater built for Pontiac during the go-go 80s. GM reached into their parts bin and took out Chevette and other components to create this little roadster.

Firebird – It goes without saying that this “pony” car is sorely missed. The good news is that it may be back by the time the 2009 model year rolls around.

Firefly – Twin to the Geo Metro, the Firefly was Pontiac’s 3 cylinder captive import of the late eighties to mid nineties.

G6 – Current compact model in Pontiac’s arsenal available in rakish coupe or sporty sedan.

Grand Am -- With its 1973 debut, the Grand Am quickly became the division’s mid-range performance car. Retired in 2005 with a host of other Pontiac model names.

Grand Prix – Hidden tail lights and a concave rear window marked the Grand Prix’s 1963 debut. The car has survived GM’s model name shake out and today’s car is a mid-sized, front wheel drive sports sedan.

GTO – Introduced in 1967, the GTO was a true coupe turned sports car. Eliminated in the 1970s, the GTO is back thanks to GM’s Australian division, Holden. Rear wheel drive and a big V8 too.

LeMans – Originally a Tempest model, the LeMans became its own model once the Tempest name was retired in the 1970s. Retired in the mid 1990s after a cheap Korean car was allowed to carry its name. Sheesh!

Montana -- A minivan for Pontiac, if not for the ages.

Parisienne – During the 1980s Pontiac needed a version of the Chevrolet Caprice. This full sized, rear wheel drive sedan filled the bill.

Phoenix – Part of GM’s “X cars” of compact import fighting vehicles introduced during 1979 as a 1980 model.

Sunbird – Nothing but a rebadged Chevy Cavalier.

Sunfire – Compact coupe retired in 2005 as part of, you guessed, GM’s model restructuring.

Sunrunner – Nothing but a rebadged Geo/Chevy Tracker.

Tempest – From the early sixties until the early seventies, the term “muscle car” befit this hot coupe. Especially nice as a convertible!

Trans Sport – Hideous looking minivan that debuted in the early 1990s. Mercifully replaced years later by the Montana.

Vibe – A currently produced compact five door sport wagon; cousin to the Toyota Matrix.

So, there you have it. At least another half dozen models were left out from this time period plus many models that dated back to the division’s founding as part of the Oakland Automobile Company in 1926. Pontiac excitement…have you caught it yet?

More and more these days, riders of all terrain vehicles (ATVs) are becoming injured or even killed when their ATV wrecks, enforcing the need for safe operating procedures. This is especially important for teenagers who are interested in riding ATVs and are less likely to practice safe conduct while operating the vehicles. Keep in mind that ATVs are just as dangerous as cars, motorcycles, trucks, or sport utility vehicles, so only operate them using the proper techniques and procedures. Many riders neglect the fact that these vehicles have the capability to extremely injure or kill the drivers, but in the correct hands, ATVs can be a fun way to spend time in the great outdoors. Follow these ten safety tips when riding any ATV:

1.) Only drivers over the age of 16 should operate an ATV.
The American Academy of Pediatrics strongly recommends that children under the age of 16 should not operate an ATV. This is especially important, since younger children are usually injured on ATVs due to their size or inexperience with operating vehicles. Even once a child is 16 and able to operate an ATV, adult supervision should be present at all times.

2.) Always wear protective gear.
Just like operating a motorcycle or bike, riding an ATV requires you use proper protective gear. ALWAYS wear a helmet. Most serious or fatal accidents occur when the rider is not wearing a helmet and falls on his or her head. Helmets may not be the most stylish accessory, but they can literally save your life. Also, since most riders operate ATVs in wooded environments, be sure to wear proper eye protection, as a rock, branch, or even a bug can fly into your eye and cause damage. Furthermore, be sure to wear boots and gloves to protect your hands and feet while operating the ATV.

3.) Take a driver’s safety course.
Before you drive a car, you take a safety course, so why should driving an ATV be any different? Safety courses educate riders of the correct way to operate and ride an ATV to ensure he or she knows how to handle the vehicle. Also, safety courses will teach riders of all ages the appropriate behavior when riding an ATV, making it critical for teens and adults to attend.

4.) Only one rider per vehicle.
ATVs are designed for only one rider at a time. Since you have to manipulate your weight in order to control the vehicle, two riders on a vehicle is incredibly dangerous. Also, the ATV may be unable to successfully hold the combined weight of two riders, making it less stable and more apt to roll over. Finally, having an additional rider can distract the driver from the task of properly operating the vehicle.

5.) Ride ATVs in appropriate settings.
When it comes to where to ride your ATV, ensure you choose a proper setting. Avoid roads and streets, since ATVs are not designed nor intended to be driven on concrete or asphalt with larger cars and trucks. Also, avoid improper terrain that may encourage the ATV to roll over due to instability in the ground.

6.) Do not speed.
ATVs are designed to go a certain speed safely. Increasing the speed—especially through certain terrains—decreases your control and the vehicle’s stability, making you more prone to have an accident.

7.) Do not operate an ATV impaired.
Many adults find themselves tempted to operate an ATV while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Even over the counter or prescription medications can impair your reaction time, thinking process, and judgment, so be sure to avoid operating an ATV during this time. Just like drinking and driving, alcohol and ATV driving does not mix.

8.) Carry a communication device with you at all times.
ATV operations should be sure to carry a cell phone or walkie talkie with them at all times so that they can call for help in the event of an emergency. This is especially true if you are riding alone, which is not encouraged, so that someone will be able to find you if you become injured. Whenever you plan to ride your ATV, you should either have another individual with you or notify someone of where you are going and when you plan to return.

9.) Do not attempt tricks or stunts while riding an ATV.
The most injuries on ATVs occur when the vehicles are operated improperly. Take great care in riding your ATV and be sure to avoid any tricks or stunts that will encourage an accident. Furthermore, avoid improper interaction with other individuals, whether they are on an ATV or not.

10.) Use common sense.
This final safety tip is by far the best. Your common sense can carry you a long way, especially involving your safety.

Japanese built and designed cars have flooded the North American market for over forty years now. Over time, many nameplates have come and gone, but Japanese cars continue to gain market share and acceptance with a growing number of motorists attracted to their high quality and durability. There are nine Japanese automobile manufacturing companies in existence. Can you name them? Let’s take a look at the list:

Toyota – The second largest automaker in the world is Toyota, maker of the Camry, the Corolla, and a host of SUVs, trucks, passenger cars, and a van. Toyota’s Lexus division produces luxury cars, while its Scion division manufactures youth oriented vehicles.

Honda – The Accord and the Civic are Honda’s two most well known models, followed by the Odyssey minivan, the Ridgeline truck, the Element, and several other passenger vehicles. Acura is the name given to Honda’s luxury car division.

Nissan – Drive a Datsun and then decide. Up until the early 1980s, Nissan’s North American nameplate was Datsun, but was switched to Nissan to give it a more global name. The Sentra, Maxima, and Pathfinder are amongst the division’s best selling vehicles. Infiniti is Nissan’s luxury car division. Renault Motors of France owns a controlling interest in Nissan.

Mitsubishi – Originally imported exclusively by Chrysler, Mitsubishi began to sell cars under its own name in the 1980s. Top selling models include the Lancer, the Eclipse, and the Montero. DaimlerChrysler owns a chunk of the company.

Mazda – The Tribute, Miata, and the “6” are some of the most well known Mazda models. The Mazda 6’s platform also powers several Ford Motor Company cars including the Mercury Milan. Ford owns an important stake in the company.

Subaru – Think all wheel drive and you may just think Subaru. The Forester, Outback, and Legacy are all top selling Subaru models. Fuji Heavy Industries [FHI] owns Subaru; General Motors has a 20 percent stake in FHI.

Suzuki – 20% owned by General Motors, Suzuki is as noted for producing cars as it is for manufacturing motorcycles. The Grand Vitara is one of its most noted models.

Isuzu – Did someone say General Motors? Again, GM owns a stake in Isuzu. At one time Isuzu imported cars to the US, but those days are over. Currently, Isuzu has a miniscule presence and the two vehicles they do sell – the Ascender SUV and I Series pick ups – are simply rebadged GMC vehicles.

Daihatsu – The Charade and Rocky were two models introduced by Daihatsu when the car company started selling vehicles in North America in 1988; four years later its North American operations were closed. In 1999, Toyota assumed controlling interest over the company.

So, there you have it: there are nine Japanese automakers, two of which are still independent. Much like the American market further consolidation is likely with nameplates disappearing entirely just like the Packard, Hudson, Oldsmobile, Plymouth, and a host of other North American nameplates have driven off into the history books.

Flowering landscape trees are the crown jewels of the yard.
Perhaps no other plants, individually, can have as great an
impact on how a yard looks in spring. Browse the articles to
which I've linked below for information on particular varieties
of flowering landscape trees. Pictures are included.

Crape Myrtles: Landscape Trees of the South

A popular choice in flowering landscape trees for Southerners,
crape myrtles have a long blooming period (mid-summer to
fall). The blooming clusters of these flowering landscape trees
come in pink, white, red and lavender. The clusters appear on
the tips of new wood. Northerners can sometimes get away
with treating these flowering landscape trees as perennials
that die back in winter but come back in spring.

Trees

Not all specimens with a weeping habit are flowering
landscape trees, but this article looks at several weeping
varieties that do bloom, headed by four types of cherry.
Saucer Magnolias

The size and shape of the blooms are what suggested the
common name for these flowering landscape trees. Want a
specimen with a brilliant bloom as big as a saucer? Access
information on these beauties here.

Rose of Sharon

Although some people think of it as a landscape "tree"
(because it gets tall and can be pruned so as to have a single
trunk), rose of sharon is, in fact, a flowering shrub. The fact
that it blooms relatively late -- and for a long time -- makes it
a valuable plant for those looking to distribute their yard's
color display throughout the growing season.
Top 10 List of Flowering Landscape Trees and Shrubs for
Spring |

This article features information on ten flowering landscape
trees and shrubs that brighten our spring seasons. Included
are redbud, callery pear and crabapple.
Hawthorn: Late-Blooming Landscape Trees

This article offers information on Washington hawthorn trees,
which are perhaps most valued for the time at which they
bloom (late spring to early summer). Many of the popular
flowering specimens bloom earlier in the spring, and while
their blossoms are pleasant sights for eyes sore from winter's
barrenness, they desert us too quickly!

The U.S. Department of Transportation reports that Americans drive an average of 29 miles each day, and spend almost 60 minutes a day in their cars. With the price of gas at the pumps skyrocketing, it just makes sense to do everything you can to save your hard-earned money. It doesn’t seem like gas prices will return to ‘normal’ any time soon. You need all the ammunition you can get to fight back; here are 7 tips to help.

1. Some credit cards are offering great gas savings. It works the same way that frequent flyer miles do- you get a bonus every time you fill up. You’re going to fill up anyway, so take advantage of the bonus!

2. Join the ‘club’. Gas stations are starting to offer great, money saving membership programs. Some grocery and department stores are also giving huge discounts at the gas pump when you use their store card. It’s worth checking into.

3. Regular tune-ups and oil changes will save you gas in the long run.

4. Check out gas prices on the internet. There are websites that will let you find the best deals on gas in your area, without having to drive around looking for them.

5. If you are in the market for a new car, check out the hybrid models. Not only will you save on gas, but you will also be eligible for great tax rebates from both the state and federal government.

6. Use the cheapest gas possible. Most modern cars run just as well on regular unleaded as on the more expensive premium gas.

7. Turn off the air conditioner. Running the a/c makes your car’s engine work harder, causing it to burn more gas.

Use these tips to squeeze the most miles out of each gallon of gas, and start saving money at the gas pumps today.

Quite often, a visit to the car repair shop can be even more painful than a visit to your dentist.  Perhaps physical pain it’s involved, but some car repairs can leave your wallet feeling pretty empty and you with a bad taste in your mouth.  The best way to avoid costly repairs is to take preventative steps that will keep your car in the best condition possible.  

The first thing to do is to follow the maintenance schedule as outlined in your owner’s manual.  The best one is always that recommended by the manufacturer and if you fail to follow those guidelines, your warranty may be voided for future repairs.  Always be sure to change fluids, filters and spark plugs as the car’s manufacturer recommends.

Upgrade your motor oil to a high performance synthetic oil, which can help to prevent certain problems and can also improve your car’s performance.  

Always be sure that your tires are properly inflated.  This is especially important because tires with too little air, or too much, can result in excessive wear and may cause a blow out.  It is often recommended that tire pressure be checked during every visit to the gas pump.  While this may seem like a lot, you won’t be sorry that you have kept your tires in the best shape possible.  For reasons of both safety and the expense of new tires, this exercise is well worth it.

If you notice unusual noises on your car, check with your owner’s manual for information.  Quite often, noises are perfectly normal and there is no need for concern.  Your owner’s manual will let you know whether or not a visit to the car repair shop is necessary.

If you do have to take your car in for repairs, be sure that you are dealing with a reputable company.  Check with the local Better Business Bureau and ask your family or friends for recommendations.

When it comes time to begin the repairs, get an estimate in writing.  A quality repair shop will be able to provide this information and should also be able to assure you that the repairs will not exceed 10% of a specific dollar amount as outlined in the estimate.

The aforementioned steps will help to keep your car running smoothly and may also keep some extra bucks in your wallet.  With the cost of gasoline prices these days, a few extra dollars can go along way.

Last year marked a turning point in which Earth-friendly alternative-fuel and hybrid vehicles gained major attention and an increasing market share. On top of that, the AAA Great Battery Roundup collected more than 20,000 used vehicle batteries and disposed of them in an environmentally sound manner.

But you don't need to have old batteries lying around or buy a different vehicle to protect the environment. According to AAA spokesman Michael Calkins, you can make a meaningful contribution by adopting two easy-to-implement strategies: regular vehicle maintenance and better driving habits.

The following tips can put you on the road to environmentally conscious car care.

* Keep your engine running at peak performance in order to conserve fuel. Perform regular vehicle maintenance at the intervals recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer. Seek timely service if the "check engine" warning light remains illuminated on the dash.

To find a trustworthy repair facility, ask friends for recommendations or search on www.aaa.com for AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities near you.

* Check the air pressure in your car's tires regularly. Underinflated tires require your engine to work harder and use more fuel to maintain a given speed.

* Have your vehicle's air conditioning serviced only by technicians who are certified to properly handle and recycle automotive refrigerants. Older air conditioning systems contain ozone-depleting chemicals that could be released into the atmosphere.

* Some older vehicles use switches that contain highly toxic mercury to activate hood, trunk and glove-box lights. Many organizations, including a number of AAA clubs across the country, now host mercury "switch out" programs in which these environmentally hazardous parts are removed for recycling and replaced with nontoxic mechanical switches.

* Avoid "jack rabbit" starts, sudden acceleration and speeds above the posted limits; all of these habits guzzle gas.

* Properly dispose of engine fluids and batteries. Call your local government waste management agency to find out how. Never dispose of fluids on the ground or in any manner that might allow them to make their way into groundwater, lakes or streams.

Proper vehicle maintenance and environmentally friendly driving habits conserve natural resources, reduce exhaust emissions and reward you with a vehicle that will last longer and be safer to drive. In other words, when you "go green," the Earth wins, your car wins -- and you are the biggest winner of all!  - NU

There are many terrific benefits to buying cars on eBay Motors, including a price that the you get to determine, lower insurance and the absence of a car payment every month if you pay in full. If you plan on buying used cars on eBay Motors in the near future, here are several tips to make sure that the road to your new ride is a smooth one.

Buying Cars On eBay Motors Tip # 1
Check with your local automobile insurance agent before deciding on a specific used car. If the cost of auto insurance is an important deciding factor, you should be aware that SUVs will be more expensive than a car. Regardless, however, a used car will carry more affordable insurance than a new one of the same model and make.

Buying Cars On eBay Motors Tip # 2
Request a CarFax report. This information is available for a reasonable fee and includes information regarding the car’s history, including whether or not it has been flooded or if it has ever been involved in any type of accident. In addition, the number of previous owners and whether or not the title is clear should also be included in a CarFax report.

Buying Cars On eBay Motors Tip # 3
Check out the car’s value with Kelly Blue Book. This source is one of the most trusted when it comes to providing new or used car values. By entering certain information into the website, car shoppers can learn what that particular automobile should be sold for. This can help potential buyers realize whether or not they are getting a good deal.

Buying Cars On eBay Motors Tip # 4
Consider gas mileage. An SUV will typically use more gasoline than a compact car, which is important if the cost of fuel is a major deciding factor in your purchase.

Buying Cars On eBay Motors Tip # 5
Select a used car with as little mileage as possible. This should mean that the car has a longer life and hasn’t been used excessively.

And finally, when buying cars on eBay Motors, make sure that the automobile you choose is one that fits your lifestyle. For example, a family would likely be more comfortable in a van or SUV, while a single person or a married couple may be perfectly happy with a compact car. The design of an automobile that you may consider buying on eBay Motors will ultimately depend on your intended use and how many are in your family that will be riding along at the same time.

With gas prices sky high most individuals who drive are interested in ways they can make their car more fuel efficient and save as much money as possible. While there are no fuel saving tips that will keep your car full of gas without filling up, there are some tips that really can help you save money on fuel over the long run. All of these tips focus on making your car more fuel efficient.

Fuel Efficiency Tip #1 Drive When You Crank Up
This might seem obvious, but as soon as you crank up your car you should drive off. However, many people crank up and leave the car idling for a while. Instead of this, when you crank up drive off and only keep your car running when it is absolutely necessary.

Fuel Efficiency Tip #2 Don’t Ride the Break
Many drivers hit the break more often than is necessary. Additionally there are quite a few drivers that slow down for a braking car when they could easily switch lanes. Not riding the break can increase your fuel efficiency by up to 30%, so this is a great tip you should follow.

Fuel Efficiency Tip #3 Turn Off Your Car
If you are going to be stopping for more than 10 minutes you should switch off your car to keep fuel efficiency at its peak and not burn more gas than is necessary.

Fuel Efficiency Tip #4 Don’t Turn Off Your Car
If you are only stopping for a brief moment or less than 5 minutes then don’t turn off your car because the amount of gas used to crank up is more than you would burn in that short period of time.

Fuel Efficiency Tip #5 Inflate Tires Properly
Too many drivers never think of their tires, unless one goes flat. However, having tires that are properly inflated can save fuel and make your car more fuel efficient, saving you money. Because of this, you should check your tire pressure on a regular basis.

While gas prices don’t seem like they will be dipping considerably in the next few months every tip to help you make your car more fuel efficient is helpful. So, follow the above fuel tips and you will see that over time your car really is more fuel efficient.