Monday 17 October 2011

2004 BMW 745Li




 

This week I’ve got my hands on a 2004 BMW 745Li. The 7 series is BMW’s flagship model. It is the largest sedan in their lineup. Large doesn’t only describe the size of the car, large describes the list of features, the engine, and the amount of people who can’t afford one. Notable features of this beauty include: 


- 4.4L V8 Engine with 325 Horsepower
- 6 Speed Automatic Transmission
- 6 Disc In-Dash CD Player
- Power Trunk Lid
- Power Assisted Door Closers
- LOGIC7 Sound System
- iDrive System
- Navigation System
- Heated & Ventilated Front Seats
- Heated Rear Seats
- 16 Way Power Front Seats
- Sonar Parking Assist
- Power Sunroof
- HID Headlights
- Headlight Washers
- LED Taillights
- Power Window Shades for Rear Doors
- Power Window Shade for Rear Window




At first glance, the 745Li stands out. It’s long, wide and tall. The look of the car is a modern “love it or hate it” design. The long hood sweeps up into the large cabin, which then slopes back down to an awkwardly tall, chopped deck lid. The poses a very bold stance, with it’s sleek lines and edgy styling.  




This 745Li is absolutely loaded with technology, it’s a gadget lover’s dream. Features like sonar parking sensors, power window shades and a power assisted trunk lid put the 7 series ahead of its competitors. The iDrive system is the heart of the BMW’s technological advancements. The iDrive is the car’s built in computer system that controls almost every main feature of the car, from the audio system to climate controls. The iDrive is a little tricky to get used to, but with some practice it becomes second nature.



The 745Li’s driving characteristics are where it really stands out from a crowd. The 4.4L V8 provides the car with plenty of power. Handling is incredible for a car of this size, you don’t even feel like your driving a boat-sized luxury car.  Braking is also top notch, this BMW slows right down from highway speeds with no problem at all.



Overall, this is an amazing vehicle. I couldn’t ask for more in a full size luxury car. BMW has done an amazing job with this car. Every detail is finely crafted to meet the tastes of the consumer. The price may be high, but I believe any consumer would be more than satisfied with this 745Li.

Sunday 16 October 2011

2005 Honda Accord EX-L


This week I'm reviewing this 2005 Honda Accord. The Accord has been one of Honda's best selling, most reliable models since it came out in 1976.  2005 Accord models include the DX, LX, EX, EX-V6, EX-L, EX-L V6 and top-of-the-line Hybrid V6. The Accord that I am reviewing today is the "EX-L" model. Notable features include:

 
 -160hp 4-cylinder engine
-Leather interior
-6 Speaker Audio System,
-Sunroof
-Power Windows & Locks
-Remote Key
-8 Way Power Driver's Seat 
















At first glance, the Accord is very attractive. Sleek lines, chrome accents and 5 spoke alloy wheels make it very appealing to almost any audience. The chiseled headlights and front facia give it a very youthful look. The side profile of the accord gives the impression of a sport sedan, which is appealing to someone young like me. 



 Unfortunately, this accord does not perform as well as it looks. The 2.4L 4 cylinder engine is a little weak for the size of the car.  Acceleration is a little sluggish and slow and handling is average for a car of this class. Driving wise, nothing about this Accord is too impressive. However, it is very quiet and smooth in both city and highway driving conditions. If there is one thing that I really like about the 4 cylinder engine, it would be that the fuel economy is fantastic. For a car of this size, there is no other car with the same fuel economy. Ultimately I would prefer the 240 horsepower Accord V6 over this 160 horsepower model. I believe the V6 engine would substantially increase the car’s performance, thus making it a more desirable and popular car.

I would personally recommend this Honda Accord to anyone who is looking for a quality family sedan with the touches of a luxury car.  The 2.4L 4 cylinder is enough to get around from A to B without impressing, and it delivers to the needs of an economically minded (or just plain slow) driver.