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After the auto bailout of GM and Chrysler, General Motors posted a profit for the first quarter of 2010. It is the first time the company has posted numbers in the black since 2007. GM recently repaid a portion of the auto bailout it was lent and is thought to be on the path to profitability. Ford Motor Co. also posted recent gains, so it seems auto companies are getting back on track, though they still have plenty to repay from the emergency loans they received from taxpayers.

GM posts profits for first quarter

For the first time since 2007, GM has posted a first quarter profit. The New York Times reports that GM recorded a profit of $ 865 million. It posted revenues of $ 31.5 billion, and cash flow about $ 1 billion in the positive. It’s an overall positive sign for the beleaguered car maker, who previously had to ask the government for more than $ 50 billion in assistance. One year ago, the company posted losses of $ 6 billion.

Repayment has begun

Last month, GM made payments on part of the loans made by the Treasury. The loans GM and Chrysler received were bundles of loans, and GM has paid off one of the portions years before the due date. GM Chief Executive Ed Whitacre hailed it as a victory, as GM repaid $ 8.2 billion to the US and Canadian governments.

Not out of the woods

Though GM has returned to profits, the company is still in debt. The US and Canadian governments lent over $ 50 billion to GM. They are making great progress, but still have a ways to go. At present, the US Treasury still owns more than 60 percent of GM, and those ownership stakes can only be bought by stock offering when the company goes public again. They intend to make a public offering by the end of year.

Citations

New York Times

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/05/18/business/18auto.html?src=mv

Comments (0) May 22 2010

A lot of people buy used cars because you save money and can still get something that is reliable and comfortable. Another reason people buy used cars is because most cars were made with better quality material and more attention to detail before 2000. If you’re looking for a used car, whether in good condition or something you want to fix up, there are many of repair manuals to guide you through routine maintenance or a totally restoring the car. Three used vehicles, all three manufactured by GM, are the Buick Regal, the Chevrolet Lumina and the Oldsmobile Cutlass. All three of these vehicles and be found at affordable prices either at a local used car dealership or someone selling one on their front lawn. Make sure you check out local newspaper ads and online ads before settling on one of these used cars at a dealership, because sometimes people sell them in great condition at a price you can’t beat.

The Buick Regal is a very easy to drive car that has plenty of extra leg and head room. One disadvantage as far as comfort goes is that the seats aren’t very comfortable and you can really start to notice this especially on long trips in the car. This is a great used car that was produced for many years, and you’re sure to find one that is very inexpensive, especially in the older models. This is a great family car.

The Chevrolet Lumina is another great family car. Chevrolet Service ManualThis car has not only a lot of head and leg room, but the trunk is also very spacious as well. One disadvantage with this car is that the breaks are not very good, and feel very unsafe. The Chevrolet Lumina also has great gas mileage, and can get up to 30 miles per gallon while driving on the highway. This gas mileage is definitely a lot better than its competitors, especially the older competitors. This is a great, affordable used family car that is reliable.

The Oldsmobile Cutlass is a great reliable family vehicle. One complaint about the Oldsmobile Cutlass is that the frame rusts on the older models and the rust can develop very quickly, leaving holes in the body of the car. This car is another great option if you’re looking for something with plenty of room to carry the whole family and is going to keep you safe in case of an accident.

Comments (0) Mar 10 2010

If you’re looking for an affordable used car, there are many options available to you. Some things that may influence your decision are space, comfort, reliability, and price. There are many different cars available so making sure you’ve done your research before buying a used car is definitely necessary. With all of the repair manuals available today for every make and model, you’re also sure to find something to guide you through routine maintenance and fixing your car. Three used cars that are available are the Oldsmobile Ciera, which is made by GM, the Ford Contour, and the Mazda 626. All three of these cars are different and depending on your taste and budget, you may find that one of these cars is the perfect fit for you.

The Oldsmobile Ciera was manufactured between the years of 1982 and 1996. This car isn’t as reliable as many of its competitors, but you can find three basic options available for all model years. The Oldsmobile Ciera is available in a two door coupe, a four door sedan and a family wagon. Another disadvantage with this car is that these cars are very old so it’s hard to find one in great shape and with low mileage. If you’re looking for something that is really reliable, in great shape and with low mileage, this car is probably not for you.

The Ford Contour was manufactured from 1995 to 2000 but it was known to be a very good car. This car is reliable, drives well and is easy to drive. Ford Chiltons Repair ManualOne disadvantage that drivers and riders have complained about is that this car doesn’t have enough leg room and can be uncomfortable on long rides. Another advantage of this car is that the engine is very powerful and for most people the power is more than sufficient. If you’re looking for a reliable car that is going to be great, especially for someone that doesn’t drive a lot of people around, this may be the car for you.

The Mazda 626 is another reliable car. This vehicle is very high quality. One complaint that most people have about this car is that the back seat doesn’t have very much leg room. If you’re riding in the front seat though, you’ll have plenty of space. Mazda Chiltons Repair Manual

This is a great, reliable car if you’re looking for a used car. This car still works great even with high mileage.

Comments (0) Mar 10 2010

If you´re looking for a used car that is good on gas there are many options available on the market today. The best car you could buy is one that is reliable, safe, performs well, and is made of quality parts. A few things to keep in mind when you´re looking for a used car are, how many years it was manufactured for, it´s popularity during those year, consumer reviews, and editorial reviews. Chances are if your neighbor had nothing but problems with his car and you find the same thing in the editorial reviews, you don´t want to buy that car. Three options available to you are the Chevrolet Cavalier, the Honda Civic, and the Pontiac Sunfire. Another good thing to keep in mind is the safety of these vehicles because accidents happen and you want to know you´re safe while in your car if it does happen to you.

The Chevrolet Cavalier was produced between 1980 and 2005. It had a major redesign in the mid 90´s when the second generation came out. Although this car offered good fuel efficiency and ok handling, it is known to have many other defects including a poor safety rating, bad quality interior, and uncomfortable seats. Haynes Chevrolet Manual

The reason the Chevrolet Cavalier was popular was because of it´s good fuel economy and very low price. Because the resale price for the Cavalier is so low, you can usually find a very inexpensive Cavalier, but this car is not known for it´s quality and reliability. Also, if you´re looking for something safe, you shouldn´t consider the Cavalier.

The Pontiac Sunfire was manufactured between 1995 and 2005. This car was another one that offered good fuel efficiency and a low price, but it is definitely lacking in many other important areas. Pontiac Repair ManualThe Sunfire also rates very low in safety crash tests, and the quality of materials used is known to be even worse than the Chevrolet Cavalier. If you´re looking for a used car that is good on gas, it is not recommended that you buy he Pontiac Sunfire.

The Honda Civic is a very good car that has rated well in safety, handling, reliability and style. This is a very comfortable car and it has been very popular since being released in 1973. This car comes in many models so you´ll be sure to find what you want at a good price. Honda Haynes Manual

This is a recommended purchase if you´re looking for a good used car.

Comments (0) Mar 10 2010

Three used mid sized sedans that were all popular or fairly popular during the 90´s and early 2000´s are the Buick Century, the Ford Taurus, and the Chrysler Cirrus. These three cars are all very spacious and comfortable and all have seating for either 5 or 6 people. If you´re looking for something that is going to still feel spacious when you have it packed, a mid sized sedan may be a great option for you.

The Buick Century is one of General Motors mid sized sedans that was sold in the late 90´s and early 2000´s. One great advantage of this mid sized sedan is that it is very reliable and usually needs little more than routine maintenance. If you maintain this vehicle properly than it is not likely to give you many problems. One big disadvantage that this vehicle has is that the handling is not very good at all. Other mid sized sedans that GM makes have very similar engines and have significantly better steering than the Buick Century. Another complaint is that the suspension and the brakes are below average. If you´re looking for a good deal on a comfortable and reliable car, this may be the car for you. However, if you´re looking for something that is going to very easy to drive, this may not be the vehicle for you because of it´s known steering problems.

The Ford Taurus was the most popular sedan in the early 90´s. However in the mid 90´s Ford remodelled the Taurus and it wasn´t as popular as earlier models. Ford still makes the Taurus today with a few significant changes. One great thing about the Taurus is that it has a lot of space and a very comfortable interior. Ford Repair Manual

Although the interior is very basic is it very convenient and all controls are located easily within the driver´s reach. If you´re looking for a comfortable, reliable vehicle, check out a used model of the Ford Taurus.

The Chrysler Cirrus is another very comfortable vehicle. The Cirrus also has a very stylish look that many people like about it. The Brakes are known to be of bad quality, but changing the brake pads fixes that problem. Chrysler Chiltons Shop ManualThe Cirrus does have other problems when it has higher mileage, even if it is properly maintained. Check out a used model of the Chrysler Cirrus if you´re looking for something comfortable and stylish.

Comments (0) Mar 10 2010

Because there are many cars on the market today, it can be very difficult to choose the right car for you. If you’re looking to buy a new or used car, it can be very overwhelming having to choose between the many different options you will see either for sale by the owner or sitting in the dealership. Many people will tell you what they think about certain cars or certain makes, but it’s best to listen to those that have owned these cars before as they may be able to offer you advice of important information about the advantages and the disadvantages of the car. If you decide to buy a used model of the car that you want to fix yourself, it’s also a good idea to buy a repair manual to help you through the process and give you specific tips about certain cars. Three available cars that you can buy either new or used are the Pontiac Grand Prix, the Toyota Avalon, and the Honda Accord.

The Pontiac Grand Prix is the sportiest car of these three and it has a great motor. This car is also comfortable and easy to drive. Pontiac Repair Manual

One disadvantage of this car is that the brakes are below average but if you put a bit of money into getting the brakes fixed than this could be an all around great car for you. You won’t have to worry about this car leaving you stranded on the side of the road because with the proper maintenance, this is a very reliable car.

The Toyota Avalon is a full sized sedan that will offer you plenty of room and comfort. This is also a very comfortable car. Toyota 4Runner Service Manual

The power and reliability of the engine will always leave you feeling safe and secure knowing that you won’t be stranded on the side of the road. Newer models are known to be more stylish than the models from the first generation, but all models are comfortable and reliable.

The Honda Accord is another very spacious, comfortable sedan. Haynes Honda Manual

This car is reliable and has plenty of power. If you’re looking for something very easy to drive, than this could be the car for you. This car is also great to take on long trips because it has plenty of extra room. If you have this car full of people you won’t have to worry about comfort.

Comments (0) Mar 10 2010

General Motors’ Chevrolet division is the brand in which the Chevrolet Aveo is marketed.  It’s been crafted as a subcompact vehicle that is marketed not only in the united states and in the rest of North America but it is also sold and offered worldwide.  It has been said that this vehicle came from 2 vehicles which are the Daewoo Kalos and the Daewoo Gentra.  The Daewoo Kalos was first produced back in 2002 and it was promoted using the Chevrolet Aveo name from 2004 up until 2006.  As per the Daewoo Gentra, this auto came into production just last year, 2005, and plans for this auto are that come 2007, it is going to be then known as the Chevrolet Aveo. 

Last year, the Chevrolet Aveo’s model for 2006 was introduced to the public in Shanghai.  However , as per this vehicle’s debut in Europe, this was made possible during the Frankfurt auto show.  General Motors claim this vehicle is sort of considered to be all new though one could spot that it still shares some parts with the outgoing 2005 model.  It still held the same windscreen, two windows, and some large sections of its body structure.  It also holds a crisp and clean styling which is one of the changes that Chevrolet automobiles are sporting around. 

as specified by the power the Chevrolet Aveo holds, interested parties could actually select between two engines.  There is a 1.2 liter engine and a 1.4 litre engine.  However , the decisions does not end there for the Chevrolet Aveo.  Of course , the Corporation has made sure that shoppers and Chevrolet Aveo owners could spruce up their cars with features and packages.  As per standard gear for the auto, the list includes air-con, power windows, power locks, and power side mirrors. 

the price of the Chevrolet Aveo is not found on the high end.  In truth, it is one of the least expensive cars around.  Despite the incontrovertible fact that it is cheap, the Chevrolet Aveo is pretty much capable of delivering and performing well.  Each passenger is given a pleasurable experience inside the cabin.  Also, drivers find the Chevrolet Aveo a vehicle that’s very fun to drive.

If you can have any car in the world, what would it be? Visit thesupercars.org for information and specs on the greatest cars in the world, also take a look at GMC Acadia.

Comments (0) Mar 03 2010

Since 1992, a civilian model of the regiment’s High Mobility Multi-Purpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV) – a. K. A the HUMVEE – was made, and the HUMMER M998 was born. After 10 years of production, the HUMMER H2 was introduced in 2001 as the next stage of evolution of the first HUMMER or H1. And in the HUMMER developed again, as the H3.

You may wonder what the H3.

You may wonder what the differences and its first two incarnations. For a start, the H3 is has a Vortec 3.5L inline cylinder engine that may give 220 h.p. at 5600 revs per minute and 225 lb.-ft. Of torque at 2800 revs per minute. The HUMMER H3 gets approximately 20 Miles per gallon and incorporates either a manual or an automatic transmission — the 1st time buyers had a choice.

The HUMMER H3 also has 4-wheel drive with a fully locking rear differential. Underbody shielding, traction control, and GM’s StabiliTrak vehicle-stability enhancement system make it even more trustworthy and safe. The new HUMMER H3 can make it through 16 inches of water that is flowing at 20 mph, or twenty-four inches of water running 5 mph. GM also claims the HUMMER H3 will climb 16-inch steps and rocks, and offers two sorts of tires – a Bridgestone 33-inch tire or a Goodyear 32-inch, all-terrain tire.

Then there are the optional interior features – heated leather seats, front bucket seats and 60/40 split back seats, an electric sliding sunroof, DVD-based navigation radio, four audio systems compatible with GM’s OnStar system and the XM satellite radio, power windows and door locks with lockout protection, an electric rear window defogger, outside power-adjustable manual folding rearview mirrors, a self-dimming rearview mirror with compass and outside temperature indicator, and 3 12-volt, covered auxiliary power outlets, two located in front and one in the load area.

HUMMER H3’s 4-wheel drive system is the Borg-Warner two-speed, electrically controlled, fulltime 4-wheel drive system with a 2.64:1 proportion of low-range gear reduction ; there’s also an alternate version with a 4.03:1 ratio for the final control on obstacle-climbing. Both versions have many operating modes for all driving situations.

The HUMMER H3 has more off-road capabilities than the H1 and H2, with a 37-foot turning cycle, 9.1-inch ground clearance, a 25-degree maximum breakover angle when 33-inch tires are used, a maximum approach angle of 40 degrees and a maximum departure angle of 37 degrees.

When it comes to frame and suspension, the HUMMER H3 has a modular three-piece frame for enhanced strength. The front is an independent torsion bar suspension, same as the rear, which uses semi-elliptical leaf springs. Standard apparatus includes skid plates for protection of the steering links, and HUMMER offers optional chassis-bottled rocker panel protectors.

The H3 features ABS traction control and breaking systems, and pinion steering with 17:1 proportion. Its anti-lock breaking system uses Dynamic Rear Proportioning to aid in controlling the rear breaking in panic-stop situations. Traction and controls of the H3 work in combination with the engine controls and breaking system to provide maximum traction with minimum wheel spin without reference to the conditions.

The exterior highlights of the HUMMER H3; include a rear swing gate with fixed glass, and the standard rear wiper and defogger. And, first ever from HUMMER, the H3 features a swing gate-mounted spare to maximize interior load space. The H3 also offers stamped-steel front and rear bumper bars, standard front tow hooks and welded-on rear bumper recovery hooks.

The new HUMMER H3 is also stuffed with safety features, including a braced passenger compartment safety cage ; a fully welded, ladder-type frame to enhance crash performance and off-road capabilities; a standard front twin airbag system, optional rail-mounted, side-curtain air bags, daytime running lamps, remote keyless entry, battery rundown protection, an electronic tire pressure monitoring system and an anti-theft vehicle security system.

The new HUMMER H3 may not create the same splash as the H1 and H2, but it’s a vehicle letting you maneuver in heavy city traffic and still has promising off-road capabilities.

If you love sports cars and you would like to read more about cars, visit thesupercars.org for more information about sports cars and the fastest cars in the world. You might also want to check out Used Hummer H2.

Comments (0) Mar 03 2010

General Motors is going thru a cataclysmic change, one that will actually pull the company out of its current finance predicament or result in bankruptcy, even the probable dissolution of the company. In a search to right the listing ship, the company is divesting itself of many brands including its share of Isuzu, Fuji Heavy Industries [Subaru], and other people. So far As far as its wholly owned brands, speculation has been common that one, 2, perhaps even 3 brands might be canned or sold. A couple of the most debated makes for possible divestment are Hummer – the niche military-style SUV brand – and Saab – the Swedish automaker. Though both brands are now reasonably weak, GM has maintained that the 2 makes will not only survive, but receive fresh product and backing. Let’s have a look at two of GM’s most exposed brands and what the company may have in store for each one.

Saab — Saab fans have been highly disappointed ever since General Motors gobbled up the Swedish automaker back in the early 1990s. Admirer’s hopes the brand would receive some deep pocket support haven’t quite worked out the way many would have wanted it to. Instead, the Saab brand is just a shell of its former self with most models based on other automaker’s platforms including the Subaru inspired 9-2x and the GMC galvanized 9-7x.

Saab’s future quite possible rests with Opel, GM’s large EU brand based in Germany. Future production of some Saab autos is probably going to go to Germany with rebadged Opels being sold as Saabs. For the long term, look for every single Saab model to based on somebody else’s technology, effectively ending what was once a a unique Swedish brand.

Hummer — Desert Storm gave rise to the Humvee and soon after the war ended, the AM General company started to produce civilian versions of its army automobile to meet client demand. By the late 1990s, General Motors bought out the rights to the Hummer name, but GM still relies on AM General to produce the two largest models, while building the H3 itself.

Despite intentionally low sales, the Hummer name has managed to prosper. Celebs , monetary moguls, and everyday citizens have been interested in the brand which has given GM a bit of a “halo” effect. With gas prices soaring, demand will actually drop for the larger Hummers, but GM may counter that with stronger emphasis on the H3 and the development of the H4, a vehicle allegedly very like the compact Jeep Wrangler.

Of course, not most are satisfied with GM’s plans with the two brands, but then again these are not standard times for the struggling automaker. In time, GM’s plans may be refined and Saab could still be sold, especially if Swedish interests step forward. In all, GM is trying to right its listing ship without peeling off too many brands. Will it work? That is tough to say, but if you’re a fan of the GM you actually hope that it will.

If you love sports cars and you would like to read more about cars, visit thesupercars.org for more information about sports cars and the fastest cars in the world. You might also want to check out Hummer H2.

Comments (0) Mar 03 2010

General Motors is going thru a cataclysmic change, one that will actually pull the company out of its current finance predicament or result in bankruptcy, even the probable dissolution of the company. In a search to right the listing ship, the company is divesting itself of many brands including its share of Isuzu, Fuji Heavy Industries [Subaru], and other people. So far As far as its wholly owned brands, speculation has been common that one, 2, perhaps even 3 brands might be canned or sold. A couple of the most debated makes for possible divestment are Hummer – the niche military-style SUV brand – and Saab – the Swedish automaker. Though both brands are now reasonably weak, GM has maintained that the 2 makes will not only survive, but receive fresh product and backing. Let’s have a look at two of GM’s most exposed brands and what the company may have in store for each one.

Saab — Saab fans have been highly disappointed ever since General Motors gobbled up the Swedish automaker back in the early 1990s. Admirer’s hopes the brand would receive some deep pocket support haven’t quite worked out the way many would have wanted it to. Instead, the Saab brand is just a shell of its former self with most models based on other automaker’s platforms including the Subaru inspired 9-2x and the GMC galvanized 9-7x.

Saab’s future quite possible rests with Opel, GM’s large EU brand based in Germany. Future production of some Saab autos is probably going to go to Germany with rebadged Opels being sold as Saabs. For the long term, look for every single Saab model to based on somebody else’s technology, effectively ending what was once a a unique Swedish brand.

Hummer — Desert Storm gave rise to the Humvee and soon after the war ended, the AM General company started to produce civilian versions of its army automobile to meet client demand. By the late 1990s, General Motors bought out the rights to the Hummer name, but GM still relies on AM General to produce the two largest models, while building the H3 itself.

Despite intentionally low sales, the Hummer name has managed to prosper. Celebs , monetary moguls, and everyday citizens have been interested in the brand which has given GM a bit of a “halo” effect. With gas prices soaring, demand will actually drop for the larger Hummers, but GM may counter that with stronger emphasis on the H3 and the development of the H4, a vehicle allegedly very like the compact Jeep Wrangler.

Of course, not most are satisfied with GM’s plans with the two brands, but then again these are not standard times for the struggling automaker. In time, GM’s plans may be refined and Saab could still be sold, especially if Swedish interests step forward. In all, GM is trying to right its listing ship without peeling off too many brands. Will it work? That is tough to say, but if you’re a fan of the GM you actually hope that it will.

If you love sports cars and you would like to read more about cars, visit thesupercars.org for more information about sports cars and the fastest cars in the world. You might also want to check out Hummer H2.

Comments (0) Feb 24 2010