Just right

One of a handful of electronics that should be implemented in modern cars. Torque distribution information is useful. Please just don't squeeze electronics into something that can be savoured the simple manner. Audi, are you listening?

Hunting

Boxing gloves on

Dedication

Emoticon

One day

Typical

Pride>NVL

Factory specials

How can you not fall in love?!

Which Numbers are You Looking At?

Which part of the specs sheet do you notice first whenever a new coupe rolls out of the showroom? Is it the instant magnetic appeal of the tall horsepower output, how much volumetric weight those humongous cylinders can stuff to provide those jaw dropping torque figures, or maybe even justifying the purchase with your partner, by claiming that it can swallow shopping bags in empty compartments that only seem huge in your naïve eyes?

If I were to answer this question 3 years back, I would definitely be harping on the ongoing fascination about new and “improved” technology by manufacturers, being able to extract the most ridiculous numerical advantage over rivals, just by the inclusion of a couple of cylinders or forcemeating superchargers into the already jammed-packed engine bay. Fast forward 1000 days, and here I am being all grumpy about these additions, because they coincide with the first quantitative item that I look for in the specs sheet now – weight.

My answer might seem surprising to some, and I wouldn’t blame those seeking to disagree with me. Big engines and high torque output will certainly provide any driver that instant shove in the back sensation whenever needed. Simply put pedal to the metal, let the engine rake up his horses, and there you are at point B before you know it. Maybe you can consider asking yourself this question: is power output the only figure that you are chasing? If yes, is it due to the fact that you believe that high performance translates to the acquisition of a better driving machine?

In more ways than one, cars with towering performance figures supply the avenue for technological advancement and bragging rights. Why hold back when engineers know that they have power plants capable of producing digits in their favour? I dare say that the performance numbers game does not appeal to car enthusiasts as much anymore, which is why I am getting all excited when Toyota and Subaru release their modern Hachiroku on local shores, in front of members of the public that seem oblivious to the amount of muscles strained and elbows greased to perfect its basis for existence – keeping weight to the minimum.

Physics will allow us to believe that we can push objects further with less mass. Same logic applies to vehicles. Imagine a sub-tonne Mazda Miata strutting her anorexic load on B roads. This makes hardly any sense to wedge a heavy duty V8 in coupes for these sorts of twisties. The Miata has been hailed as one of the best handling mass production cars to ever grace public roads, and I can sense the urgency for petrolheads to jump into one given the slightest of opportunity, after having the privilege to try a couple of NA 1.6 on good roads. Her divine talent to direct her path on switchbacks according to my demanding limbs, transfers the whole limelight from “marvelous” technological modernity, to the good old days where flyweight is the key to driving satisfaction and more importantly, enjoyment.

Whenever you have an intention to purchase a coupe, it wouldn’t do harm to take a glance at the curb weight of your intended acquisition. Focus on how the power delivery is being fed to the driver during the test drive. Does it go fast due the strength of her heartbeat, or because of weight that she has shed? I’ll select the latter in a jiffy. 86, do Petrolheads proud and set the second wave of trend. It has been proven successful before I was born. I’m sure you can follow suit.

Let's keep our fingers crossed.

For driving updates on the Miata, feel free to like Lenspeed, as I will be posting my impressions up via this Facebook platform soon. =)

http://www.facebook.com/Lenspeed

Rex in disguise?

Subaru is a manufacturer which hails from a rich rallying heritage. Even their MPV and station wagons possess some sporty DNA. The Legacy GT wagon featured here might look vastly different from her Rex siblings, but go fast bits are hugely identical.

The in built twin tail pipes add a neat touch without sacrificing its sporty image. Yes, wagons have the license to look fast too.

The instrument cluster is a joy to behold. Lexus style sweeping needles and a well spaced overlapping circular dials are something which is amiss from its predecessor.

Entirely redesigned brushed aluminum central panels add a unique and grown up touch to the otherwise dark cabin. Such small details can really spruce up dull interiors.

We can see carbon inserts in the door panels. Subaru certainly have not cut back on minor details, which goes a long way to provide the driver with as much satisfaction as possible whenever settled comfortably in the cockpit. The steering wheel feels and looks awesome too. Most importantly, does it provide driver feedback? It's not quite up there with the German heavyweights I have to say.

The engine churns out a more than respectable 263bhp and it does the century sprint in just 6.3 seconds. No wonder we got curious stares after a few minutes of fun.

Subaru's infamous bulging airscoop is also seen here, but this one sports a much flatter air intake for guiding cold air into the top mounted intercooler. This is still a family wagon after all. Less flair and more smiles for passengers please.

On the whole, this is a car that can satisfy both passengers and the driver. Set it in comfort mode and you are as good as being in a "lexus-like" comfort zone. Turn the knob to sports sharp mode and you will feel like tearing the empty tarmac in front, knowing that you have a massive thrust of torque under your command.

Not many cars come close at this price range. We have to venture into Audi's Avant market for similar performance, but then again, the Germans know what's best when it comes to automobiles for the autobahn.

Legacy Teaser

Kevin's massively tuned Rex