NISSAN GT-R

2017 Nissan GT-R Premium: $109,990

June 6, 2016 by admin 5 Comments

Godzilla Premium is the first of four trim levels.

The refreshed Nissan GT-R is on its way. The latest model receives a nip/tuck, gaining a larger grille, a new hood, and a refreshed interior. The standard-bearer model is the GT-R Premium, outfitted with a Titanium exhaust system and is also the beneficiary of a 20-horsepower boost in performance.

2017 Nissan GT-R Premium

Introduced to the US market in 2009, the current GT-R has served as the halo model for the Nissan brand since. We have also seen this model’s price surge from $70,745 in 2009 to $109,990 for 2017. That’s nearly $40,000 added over the years for a vehicle now in its ninth model year.

The GT-R’s lofty price is well above the Chevrolet Corvette Z06 ($79,400) and the Porsche 911 ($89,400), two competing models. Nissan sells just 100 to 150 models per month with its exclusivity driving the pricing trend and perhaps justifying the $8,220 increase over the 2016 model.

Nissan says the improvements on this all-wheel drive sports car focuses on five areas: exterior design, interior refinement, driving performance, ride comfort and advanced technology.

Nissan Relocates the Paddle Shifters

Up front is a new V-motion grille, enlarged for the sake of delivering better engine cooling. It now comes with a matte chrome finish and a refined mesh design. The new hood features pronounced character lines moving seamlessly from the grille. Moreover, the grille has been strengthened to reinforce stability during high speed driving. Blaze Metallic is the lone new exterior patina added for 2017.

Slip inside and you will find that the updated interior design now features an instrument panel wrapped in customized Nappa leather as well as a refined front seat design developed for improved comfort and holding performance. Nissan also simplified the switch layout narrowing the panel to just 11 switches from the previous 27. An 8-inch capacitive touch panel monitor is in place, replacing the most recent 7-inch layout.

One change certain to cause debate amongst enthusiasts is the relocation of the paddle shifters from the steering column to the steering wheel. Nissan explained the decision as “allowing drivers to make mid-turn gear changes without taking their hands off the wheel.” If you’ve ever driven a car with steering column-mounted paddle shifters, you know that this decision is a big deal.

Available Rakuda Tan Leather Color Scheme

The interior is covered in semi-aniline leather and provides three distinct options, including the newly added Rakuda Tan. The other choices remain Amber Red and Ivory.

Standard for 2017 is NissanConnectSM with Navigation and Mobile Apps and Services, the latter allowing users to manage a smartphone to remotely lock or unlock the car doors, activate the alarm, summon emergency services or track the car if it is stolen.

Performance and Noise Abatement

The 2017 models now has a 565 horsepower rating, an increase of 20 horsepower. Nissan claims the 2017 GT-R has a flatter torque curve for enhanced on-demand acceleration.

Included among the powertrain modifications is a new Titanium exhaust system – standard on GT-R Premium models – imbued with new active noise cancellation and active sound enhancement tech engineered to eliminate superfluous noise while preserving passion during vigorous driving. Also helping the cause is acoustic glass and targeted sound dampening designed to mitigate the invasion of wind and road noise into the sports car’s cabin.

For 2017, the Nissan GT-R is composed of four grade levels. Premium is standard; information about the other three levels will be announced at a later date.

So, what do you think of the refreshed GT-R? This six-figure Nissan is unattainable for all but the most deep-pocketed enthusiasts amongst us. Even a used 2009 model in very good condition will cost you about $50,000, keeping Godzilla out of the reaches of most of us.

Nissan 370Z, anyone?

See Also — Godzilla Untamed: 2015 Nissan GT-R

Photo copyright Nissan North America.

9 Bright Stars at the 2016 New York International Auto Show

March 24, 2016 by admin 2 Comments

What’s shining at the 2016 NY International Auto Show? We take a look at nine of the top models.

The New York International Auto Show (NYIAS) was founded in 1900 and is one of the largest and most exceptional expos of its kind in North America, indeed in the entire world. Always held near Easter, the NYIAS presents numerous new and concept vehicles. For the 30th consecutive year the 2016 NYIAS will be presented at the Jacob Javits Center in Manhattan, where visitors will find the brightest stars from manufacturers the world over.

1. Jaguar F-TYPE SVR

All right, the Jaguar F-TYPE SVR has already made its global debut, taking a bow at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this month. The New York unveil will only underscore what we already know about Jaguar’s fastest model to date. Definitely, it is worth reviewing some of the more meaningful details.

The big news about the all-wheel drive F-TYPE SVR is its speed. Specifically, this model is slated to go from 0-to-60 mph in just 3.5 seconds thanks to its marvelous 5.0-liter, supercharged V-8 engine. The hot cat’s engine makes 575 horsepower and 516 foot-pounds of torque and comes paired with an 8-speed Quickshift transmission.

To reach its optimum performance rating, Jaguar shaved the SVR’s weight by 55 pounds over the F-TYPE R. Further, enhancements such as enlarged air intakes on the front bumper, combined with revised charge air coolers and revamped hood vents have been incorporated. Other modifications extend to the exhaust system, wider tires, and refinements to the rear electronic active differential. In all, the SVR will set you back by $125,950 for the coupe and $128,800 for the convertible.

2. Volkswagen Golf Alltrack

Do you remember the Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen? For 2016, Volkswagen shuffled its model line up, sending the compact SportWagen to its subcompact Golf line. Oddly, the latest portrayal is slightly larger than the outgoing model. Go figure.

A new addition to the Golf family arrives in autumn when the Golf Alltrack debuts. Based on the SportWagen’s architecture, the Alltrack brings in all-wheel drive, essentially giving Volkswagen a subcompact SUV in the market. In addition to the Alltrack, models in this segment include the Honda HR-V, Nissan Juke, Mazda CX-3 and the Chevrolet Trax.

The Alltrack is powered by a 170-horsepower four-cylinder gasoline engine making 199 foot-pounds of torque. Customers will have a choice of a standard six-speed manual gearbox or the available six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The Haldex-supplied all-wheel drive system shifts up to 50 percent of the engine’s torque to the rear wheels. Importantly, with an inch higher road clearance than the SportWagen, the Volkswagen Golf Alltrack is designed to handle light-duty off roading with ease.

3. Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

If the Camaro SS isn’t enough for you, then the 2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 is worth a look. Just as the SS mimics the standard Corvette Stingray in power, the 2017 Camaro ZL1 parallels the Corvette Z06, by offering a 6.2-liter, supercharged V-8 engine making 640 horsepower and 640 foot-pounds of torque. That figure betters the previous ZL1’s performance, what came in at 580 horsepower and 556 foot-pounds of torque.

The standard transmission is a 6-speed rev-match manual gearbox. Also available is an all-new 10-speed automatic transmission. The top-end Camaro will be the first of eight GM products to get the new-fangled slush box.

The 2017 Camaro ZL1 will ride on 20-inch forged alloy wheels set within Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar tires composed of a special composite made just for the Camaro. Brembo six-piston calipers with two-piece rotors, a specially-tuned version of GM’s famous Magnetic Ride Control dampers, an electronic limited-slip differential, and a track-focused performance traction management system are among the other highlights of this model.

4. Mazda MX-5 RF

How do you prepare an encore for the Mazda Miata MX-5? You do so very carefully. Certainly, plaudits are due for a roadster that has long captured the hearts of people around the world. The follow up is another heart pounder, an MX-5 RF or “retractable fastback” model featuring a foldable, hard-top roof.

The newest Miata advances fastback styling with a smooth, sloping roofline. The multi-part roof opens and closes at the push of a button and does so while moving, although at speeds up to 6.2 mph. When the roof is down, it neatly folds into the trunk of the coupe. What’s left is a beautiful targa-style expression, unlike anything else in this category.

Colors are very important to the new model and were added in an effort to highlight the coupe’s sleek design. For example, the pictured Machine Grey patina accentuates the composition, serving as a full-toned element of the body’s form. In this case, Mazda made use of a high-quality finish incorporating a three-coat paint order composed of color, reflective and clear coats.

5. Nissan GT-R

Godzilla is getting a refresh. And most critics will say, “its about time.” Indeed, although Nissan’s six-figure sports car has had constant tweaks since its 2009 debut, a more comprehensive metamorphosis hasn’t happened. Until now.

The latest update is designed to keep Nissan GT-R faithful engaged until 2018 when the next-generation (R36) model arrives. That vehicle is rumored to have a hybrid powertrain — no worries, the supposed “greening of Godzilla” won’t come at the expense of performance.

For 2017, the changes are represented by a nip here and a tuck there, with a modified v-motion grille present to enhance engine cooling. A new hood with pronounced character lines and four new patinas are available. Inside, new Nappa leather, paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel, and 8-inch capacitive touch screen are included. The latest model now makes 565 horsepower and benefits from a titanium exhaust system. A greater use of sound deadening materials is also employed.

6. Hyundai Ioniq

Some may think it is a bit ironic that the Hyundai Ioniq is making its debut at the New York International Auto Show. After all, it is the Los Angeles Auto Show that has been deemed by some as the most green-friendly of them all. Let’s just say that the Ioniq wasn’t all set for its North American debut before the NY show, but unquestionably it is ready now.

Ioniq is to Hyundai what the Prius is to Toyota. That means this emerging line of standard and plug-in-hybrid electric vehicles should elevate Hyundai into the upper stratosphere of all things electrified vehicle.

The new model will make its North American debut this fall. When it is officially certified by the EPA, it is expected to deliver upwards of a combined 56 mpg, easily beating the Prius. Furthermore, a third variant, an electric-only model, is expected to deliver 110 miles of range, three miles longer the Nissan Leaf.

7. Subaru Impreza

In 2015, Subaru separated its WRX line from Impreza, although that decoupling was accomplished in naming conventions mostly. For 2017, the chasm between the two widens as the next-generation Impreza inaugurates Subaru’s all-new modular architecture set to underpin new Outback, Forester and Crosstrek models. Indeed, the next-generation WRX will eventually share this platform.

Introduced in 1993, the 2017 Subaru Impreza marks the fifth generation for this compact sedan, a model that competes against the likes of the Ford Focus, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Honda Civic, and the Chevrolet Cruze. The latest model comes in sedan and hatchback body styles, the latter very uncommon to the segment.

The fifth-generation Subaru Impreza comes in slightly longer and wider than the outgoing model, offering a roomier interior and improved visibility. All-wheel drive is standard and a 2.0-liter, BOXER four-cylinder engine now makes 152 horsepower and comes paired with a continuously variable transmission. New driver-assist technologies, including reverse automatic braking is available. All models are equipped with a rear vision camera.

8. Chevrolet Sonic

Introduced in 2012, the Chevrolet Sonic gets a refresh for 2017. An all-new model will have to wait a few more years as car buyers are currently looking at SUVs in greater numbers and much less so at small cars. Nonetheless, an update is in order and a freshened model is now on display in New York.

As before, the Sonic is sold in sedan and hatchback body styles. For 2017, this model receives fresh grille, new LED signature lighting, along with available LED daytime running lights. New wheel designs and four new exterior colors highlight the exterior changes.

Inside, the changes include the segment’s first available power driver’s seat. Other new features include keyless open and start, available heated cloth seats with a new heated steering wheel, and an all-new 7-inch infotainment system display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come to the 2017 Sonic; also available is 4G LTE with a WiFi hotspot.

9. Toyota Highlander

Toyota launched the three-row crossover SUV segment in 2001 when it introduced the Highlander. Offering room for eight, the Highlander is a logical alternative to the similar-sized Toyota Sienna minivan.

The third-generation Toyota Highlander was released in 2014, thus the latest update represents a mid product cycle update. This means it will be a few more years before we see the next generation model, therefore a refreshed motif will hold sway until then.

Tweaks to the front and rear fascia are evident, including new upper and lower grille finishes. Also new for 2017 is an SE edition, the sportiest Highlander model yet. Dark black fascia highlights, a sport-tuned suspension, and a record five USB ports across the model line are among the chief changes. However, the biggest change is found in the transmission as an eight-speed automatic replaces the previous six-speed, effectively improving fuel economy for this best-selling SUV.

Best of the Rest

Other models to examine in New York include the Toyota Prius Prime, a roomier take on the current Prius PHEV. The latest hybrid model advances Mirai styling cues and has an electric-only range of 22 miles.

The Lincoln Navigator concept looks like a good bet for the next generation of this beefy, luxury SUV. However, the model on display has gull-wing doors and those won’t go into production. What we can expect is the twin-turbo V-6 engine powering the upcoming Continental and a raft of features to advance this model’s “quiet luxury” approach to the market.

Further, give Audi props for a thoroughly delicious R8 Spyder, to Kia for refreshing its Cadenza sedan, and to Mercedes-Benz for the plunging design pattern dressing the 2017 GLC Coupe. All three models will enhance their respective brands, bringing a fresh touch to the industry.

2016 New York International Auto Show

To sum up, the 2016 New York International Auto Show offers something for everyone. This year’s show runs from March 25 to April 3, 2016, and includes special events each day. Indeed, those events and special displays range from a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 2 Truck to Camp Jeep and beyond, with the streets of Manhattan beckoning from without and offering a variety of additional enticements for visitors.

See Also — LA Auto Show: 2015 Sneak Peak

Godzilla Untamed: 2015 Nissan GT-R

March 27, 2015 by admin 6 Comments

Every once in a while I hit the Mother Lode with my weekly drivers. That bonanza comes chiefly in the form of a sports car, a prized model that turns heads and snaps necks. A BMW M6, Porsche Cayman, Porsche 911 4S, Corvette Stingray and a Jaguar F-TYPE have each landed in my driveway over the past two years. But it wasn’t until a Nissan GT-R arrived was I able to fully appreciate the historic significance and full-blown power of this iconic model.

Nissan GT-R

Supercar Supremacy

The Nissan GT-R’s reputation is well known and has earned it the “Godzilla” appellation from fans everywhere. It is a model that has been around since 2007, the spiritual successor to the Nissan Skyline GT-R. Although the Honda/Acura NSX and the Lexus LFA have both achieved super car status, only the GT-R has remained consistently in production and on everyone’s performance radar.

The stateside version showed up in 2009 and immediately placed a halo over the entire Nissan range. Where US Nissan fans already knew that the brand had performance aspirations, it was only when the model finally manifested itself that those claims were clarified.

Now in its ninth model year, this high performance Nissan sport coupe has managed to stay relevant through a constant stream of improvements. From the onset, launch control has been an ever-present and a much desired feature, one that was tweaked early on to reduce transaxle stress, a potential warranty issue. Indeed, a software change fixed that problem and in the process the GT-R immediately benefited from improved acceleration.

Changes across the intervening years upped both the horsepower and torque quotients, enhanced the suspension system and upgraded the brakes, as well as the steering and tires. LED headlights and a quieter cabin followed.

Nissan GT-R

2015 Nissan GT-R

The 2015 Nissan GT-R retails from $101,770 and is rated at 545 horsepower and 463 foot-pounds of torque thanks to a hand-built 3.8-liter twin turbo V-6 engine. [As a side note, Cadillac recently discussed its own power dense 3.0-liter twin turbo V-6 engine, claiming that it will be “…one of the most power-dense V-6 DOHC engines in the world, developing 133 horsepower (99 kW) per liter.” That’s a full 9 horsepower per liter below the Nissan twin turbo, by the way].

The Black Edition, replete with a dry carbon-fiber rear spoiler, 20-inch dark finished RAYS wheels and Black/Red Recaro front seats is priced from $111,510. From there, you would make a leap to the GT-R NISMO, a “limited availability” model priced from $149,990. Notably, that price premium raises horsepower to a jaw-dropping 600-hp, and brings in NISMO features to the suspension system as well as to the wheels.

NISMO is, by the way, an abbreviation for Nissan Motorsport International Limited. NISMO has been applied to other Nissan models, including JUKE, 370Z and soon the compact Sentra sedan. Let’s just say that the touch elsewhere is comparatively light to the strong-handed, open fisted attention NISMO engineers give to the GT-R.

Nissan GT-R

My test model was the base edition with a final price tag of $106,650. Besides the $285 GT-R floor mats, the other option was the $3,000 Regal Red paint scheme. Certainly, that finish “earns” its lofty price as it is embedded with 24-carat gold flakes to provide an incomparable look.

Naturally, you did not come to this article to learn how many cup holders are present or gloss over dozens of other features that typify the modern American sedan. Suffice to say, this 2+2 coupe has an almost useless back seat, although I did find it does a good job of holding my brief case in place as I navigated various circuitous routes. Further, an 8.8 cubic-foot trunk was a surprise, offering more than enough room to store luggage for an extended weekend away from home.

Beastly, Provocative Exterior

From the exterior, the Nissan GT-R offers nothing less than an imposing presence. From bumper to bumper, this model advances its muscular persona, one amplified by its large, gaping grille augmented by oversized headlamp assemblies punctuated by a lighting bolt lighting accent. The broad hood is marked by a pair of intercooler vents.

The GT-R’s profile is dominated by the large wheel wells, fender vents, and skirting. Yes, the roof line falls dramatically from front to rear pillars, then eases into a raised rear deck.

Everyone (or at least the people I talked to about the GT-R) has a standout feature they like best about the exterior. Personally, its rear visage is the most enchanting as it is dominated by quad brake and turn signal lights. The rear diffuser is offset by quad exhaust finishers, easily some of the largest stock versions you will ever see.

Comfortable, Luxurious Interior

Inside, the GT-R’s cabin is quite comfortable. At least for two people. Both the driver and front passenger have access to form-fitting seats that are firm, supportive and precisely what you need as you take on twisty roads at breakneck speeds.

No flat-bottomed steering wheel here — the GT-R’s sporting credentials are well known — and the instrument panel is dominated by an oversized tachometer, placed directly in the center. To the left is a 220-mph gauge speedometer; to the right are three dials for parking mode, oil temperature and a gas gauge.

The center stack is your usual color display with a highly unusual performance center to display cornering, acceleration and g-force data. If you take your GT-R to the track, it keeps tabs on lap times too.

Exquisitely stitched leather door inlays, carbon-fiber and charcoal-brushed metal trim, and a smattering of other high-end, but not easily identifiable materials grace the cabin. Chances are you won’t pay all that much attention to the feel of things, rather to what they do for you. And in the GT-R, that “doing” is everything when it comes to your satisfaction.

Nissan GT-R

2015 Nissan GT-R

View manufacturer details and pricing

Nissan GT-R

Monster Under the Hood

The signature point of this model is, of course, the powertrain. The twin-turbo engine is paired with a dual-clutch six-speed automatic transmission, what can be operated in manual mode. Kudos again to Nissan for placing the paddle shifters on the steering column and not on the wheel itself. I don’t know why most other manufacturers have yet to get this point, a highly sensible way to promote engaged driving.

Sadly, there is no manual transmission offered with the GT-R. But I must admit that I didn’t miss it. If reaching your performance thresholds are important to you, then only the automatic can get you there faster.

Nissan places the start/stop button in the console located between the front seats. It is a bright red button, aptly colored to amplify the “hotness” of this model. Put your foot on the brake, press the button and Godzilla awakens. His moan is subdued and stays that way throughout the drive — I take it that Nissan didn’t amplify the exhaust system to create false notes — it sounds authentic and without the attendant back burst drama.

Nissan GT-R

The Nissan GT-R wants to go fast and around town this sport coupe seems as if has been restrained, with tightened steering and wheels that plod along. Once you get to highway speeds, the beast within emerges and is ready to play.

And play you will: the GT-R makes even the novice driver look like a professional, with its balanced all-wheel drive system, adjustable suspension with Bilstein dampers and ultra-nimble steering making it all seem like child’s play. The engine booms and delivers copious amounts of power on demand, with turbo lag virtually indiscernible. And that’s good, because with a 0-to-60 mph rating of under three seconds, this potent beast has Gigan and Megalon eating his dust.

From Local Driving to Oblivion

To get the full benefit of the Nissan GT-R, track time is a necessity. I cannot underscore this point enough — even if you have access to a long stretch of un-policed roadways, you’re not able to fully appreciate everything that this car can do. Nevertheless, even in short spurts Godzilla displays much of its renowned power and does so with little effort. Clearly, the GT-R was the quickest car I have ever driven.

As for Godzilla’s future, we have heard rumblings about a next generation model, including a possible mid-engine replacement with seating for two. We are not likely to see that model before 2018, but in whatever permutation it takes, the GT-R’s reputation demands nothing short of Nissan’s finest effort.

Nissan GT-R

2015 Nissan GT-R

Sticker price from $101,770
Price as tested: $106,650
Seats 4 occupants
3.8-liter 24-valve Twin Turbo V-6 gasoline engine
545 horsepower @ 6,400 rpm
463 foot-pounds of torque @ 3,200 to 5,800 rpm
3.74 inches bore by 3.46 inches stroke
Engine compression ratio: 10-to-1
6-speed automatic transmission
Wheelbase: 109.4 inches
Length: 183.8 inches
Width: 74.6 inches
Height: 53.9 inches
Passenger volume: 79 cubic feet
Storage volume: 8.8 cubic feet
Towing capacity: N/A
EPA: 16 mpg city, 23 mpg highway
Premium grade gasoline
Fuel tank: 19.5 gallons
Curb weight: From 3,851 pounds
IIHS safety rating: NR
Limited vehicle warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles
Powertrain warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles
Corrosion warranty: 5 years/unlimited miles
Vehicle assembly: Kaminokawa, Tochigi Japan

Nissan GT-R photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine.

Cars and Coffee Cary: March 2014

March 3, 2014 by admin 4 Comments

The second of two Corvette Stingrays present lifts its hood.

While much of the eastern part of the nation remains locked within winters icy grip, mild weather throughout the southeast has allowed monthly Cars and Coffee meetups to continue throughout much of the Carolinas and extending all the way to Texas. Cars and Coffee Cary (NC) is one event that has continued uninterrupted throughout the colder months despite a pair of snowstorms in Jan. that paralyzed the Raleigh area.

This past Sat., the Cars and Coffee faithful gathered at the upscale Waverly Place shopping center, on a gray, chilly morning. Several hundred drivers and their cars showed up, bringing with them an assortment of antique, classic, performance, and modified rides for display.

Cars and Coffee Cary: 1941 Packard One-Twenty

The oldest car on the lot was a 1941 Packard One-Twenty. Its owners bought the car on Long Island, NY, and have had it for two months. It underwent a restoration 10 years ago.

Cars and Coffee Cary

Just as it did last month, a McLaren MP4-12C showed up, a two-door convertible that retails for $265,750. Clearly, it was the hit of the show, with dozens gathering around the sports car, sitting inside, or simply admiring its sleek design including its alluring dihedral doors.

Snapping away with liberality, Auto Trends captured dozens of the cars in attendance including the ones pictured here. At the very end of this story, please read up about a new event in Raleigh as well as updated information about two more North Carolina show and tells that begin or return this month.

Jump to: Cars and Coffee Raleigh

Cars and Coffee Cary: 1972 AMC Gremlin

This 1972 AMC Gremlin was classified as a subcompact car when new. AMC used a variety of engines ranging from a 2.0-liter four to a 5.0-liter V-8.

Cars and Coffee Cary: Ford Mustang

Every generation of Ford Mustang is well represented, although not always at the same time. Classic and late model steeds alike draw much fan interest.

Cars and Coffee Cary: Yes!

There are only three registered Yes! sports cars in the entire United States. This orange one made an appearance at Cars and Coffee.

Cars and Coffee Cary: Chevrolet El Camino

Will we ever see the return of the Chevrolet El Camino?
In many eyes, it represents the ultimate car-truck.

Cars and Coffee Cary: Corvette Stingray

Classic and new sports cars dominate Cars and Coffee. The occasional 1960s era Corvette Stingray will make an appearance.

Cars and Coffee Cary: Dodge Dart

Most people are familiar with the contemporary Dodge Dart.
This classic edition was in mint condition.

Cars and Coffee Cary: Jaguar XJ12C

A handful of British models tend to show up including this very good condition
silver Jaguar XJ12C with Michigan plates.

Cars and Coffee Cary: Porsche 911 GT3 RS

This Porsche 911 GT3 RS needs no introduction. Its orange wheels, side mirror caps, and graphics offer an unusual contrast to the body.

Cars and Coffee Cary: Triumph

This British pair underscores the way that a hood should be lifted.

Nissan GT-R

One person’s Nissan Skyline is another person’s GT-R. No matter, it was one of the fastest cars to make an appearance this month.

Cars and Coffee Cary: 1966 Ford Mustang Fastback

The owner of this 1966 Ford Mustang Fastback has had it for 14 years. Prior to its restoration it was his sons driver while attending the United States Air Force Academy.

Cars and Coffee Cary: Chevrolet Bel Air

All eyes are on this Chevy Bel Air,
a mint condition model that represented 1950s Chevrolet design quite well.

Cars and Coffee Cary: Volkswagen Golf

This Volkswagen Golf rally car seems anxious.
Give it a track or a back road and it will strut its stuff.

Cars and Coffee Cary: Mopar

Dodge Charger and SRT Viper in red: Mopar Madness offers
the same fevered condition as does March Madness.

Cars and Coffee Raleigh

The Cary, NC gathering regularly fills the allotted parking lots, demonstrating strong local interest in automotive meetup events. That has led to the formation of Cars and Coffee at the Raleigh Grande, a monthly gathering that will supplement, but not replace Cars and Coffee Cary.

Beginning on Sat., March 15, 2014, at 4840 Grove Barton Road in northwest Raleigh, display and spectator parking will be available for this monthly show. Auto Trends talked with Dave Marsic, one of the new events organizers, learning that more than 500 display and parking spaces will be available. The concession stand at the Raleigh Grande will be open during the show with attendees invited to take in a movie afterward. You can learn more about the Raleigh event by clicking here.

Cars and Coffee Greensboro (NC) will also resume on March 15 after a four-month break. And Cars and Coffee Charlotte is also back (now meeting on the second Saturday of each month) despite having been canceled following the stupid antics of a few drivers that wrecked it (literally). Visit the Facebook pages of (Greensboro) and (Charlotte) to learn more.