Back in '06, when Mercedes-Benz unveiled the 2007 R63 AMG über-minivan, we were all impressed. After all, 503 horsepower in a minivan? The original sticker price on one of these mall-parking-lot-dominatin' babies was a stunning 95 grand… but then gas prices went crazy, the economy went sour, and you know the rest. Now, just a couple years down the line, it's possible to get yourself an R63 AMG with 21,000 miles on the clock for a bit more than half the original price: $48,991. Goatrope, our tipster on this one, describes the situation quite eloquently:

Over 500 HP awd 7-seat station wagon with options out the wazoo. Original sticker was $94,820; but it now for the low-low price of $48,991.
It only has 21,019 miles on it with remaining factory warranty - plus possibly a Certified Pre-Owned warranty on top of that. The original owner took a depreciation hit of $2.18 per mile - which makes the fuel cost relatively cheap.
So for the price of a new, stripped down R-Class which nobody wants to buy, you can have a low-mileage, 500+ HP beast (which absolutely nobody bought) with a warranty. Exclusive, unloved, and insanely powered.

So, whaddya think? Is that a pretty good price, or is this the time to put Autobahn Motors' nodules in the vise and turn the crank a few times- check out the beads of sweat breaking out on the salesman's brow!- see if you can get that price down into the 30s? You get too cheap, though, you might miss out!
eBay Motors

With so much metal at the auction coming from the sale of a selection of classics from the GM Heritage Center museum, it's interesting that the top eight cars that've been sold so far at the 2009 Barrett-Jackson Auction in Scottsdale, AZ all came from that collection. Here's the top eight sales — so far.

8.) 1974 Pontiac Trans Am

Lot Number: 433
Details: This rotisserie restored, true, correct, and numbers matching Trans Am 455 Super Duty features photo documented 138560 numbers matching original 455cide Super Duty V8, correct 490132 block casting, correct Y8 block code stamp, Correct 1112205 3 A8 distributor stamping, correct 7044270 SF 2923 carburetor stamp, correct original 74-P 0-1213 automatic transmission, correct 3984828 13 40 2 74 ring gear stamp, correct GY G065 1 axle housing stamp, original Window Sticker, original dealer sales invoice, original odometer statement, copy of original title, original Auto Owner's Maintenance Folio, original owner's instruction and information manuals, original maintenance and safety manual, copy of second owner's title, dealer photos of original vehicle delivery, PHS documentation, and documents from the '73/'74 SD455 Registry. One of only 731 automatic transmission cars produced.
Day Sold: Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Sale Price*: $73,700.00

7.) 2007 Chevrolet Silverado "Dale Earnhardt Jr. Big Red" SEMA Concept

Lot Number: 114
Details: The Dale Earnhardt Jr. "Big Red" Silverado is based on the all-new, 2007 Chevy Silverado crew cab and features custom exterior appointments, an off-road-ready suspension, one-off custom 20" wheels at Dale Jr.'s request, a custom interior and more. This one-of-a-kind Silverado builds on Earnhardt's personal notion of off-road enjoyment, which was previously conveyed in his personal truck - a previous-generation Silverado named "Big Red." Earnhardt collaborated with GM designers on the truck, visiting the GM Design studio in Warren, Mich. to discuss the exterior and interior enhancements, which include all-new front-end sheet metal and rear fenders, as well as a "flying bridge"-type roll bar with integrated off-road driving lamps. The interior is as luxurious as the exterior is off-road-capable, with rich, black leather upholstery and other details. The Dale Earnhardt Jr. "Big Red" Silverado is powered by GM Powertrain's 6.2 Liter Gen IV V8 engine, a high-output, all-aluminum engine with variable valve timing that produces 380hp and 417 lb/ft of torque. It transfers its power to all four wheels via a Hydra-Matic 4-speed electronically controlled transmission. The front and rear axles are equipped with 3.73 gears and Eaton ELocker electronic locking differentials, which help the truck deliver exhilarating performance with tall off-road tires. Stopping power is enhanced with a set of Baer disc brakes, including six-piston calipers and 15" cross-drilled rotors in the front and twin-piston floating calipers with 13" cross-drilled rotors in the rear. It's a concept, and like the others, is not legal for driving on public roads.
Day Sold: Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Sale Price*: $88,000.00

6.) 2006 Pontiac GTO RA6 Custom

Lot Number: 738
Details: This specialty '06 GTO was a SEMA Show award winner by Kip Wasenko and the team at the GM Performance Division. It features RA6 body modifications and a Stage 3 750hp Twin Turbo Katech 402 engine with Pedders Extreme suspension and Z06 brake package. Apparently, this car can be driven on public roads — it doesn't say it can't!
Day Sold: Thursday, January 15, 2009
Sale Price*: $93,500.00

5.) 1989 Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1

Lot Number: 96
Details: 1 of 83 1989 ZR-1s built and never released to the public. This car was used for media/press events and auto shows. Why'd this one go for a lower price then the other ZR-1 from '89? Probably because this one's painted purple. Also, like the other vehicles sold by GM here at the big B-J, this ZR-1 is not road legal.
Day Sold: Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Sale Price*: $110,000.00

4.) 1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo "Intimidator" Show Car

Lot Number: 83
Details: A NASCAR-inspired show car that offered a glimpse of the 2000 Chevrolet Monte Carlo styling. Features aggressive styling cues and performance-enhancing technology. We like how it's a "street legal" car being sold on a Scrap Title — because, like most of the others, it's not able to be legally driven on public roads.
Day Sold: Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Sale Price*: $148,500.00

3.) 1990 Chevrolet Corvette "Active" ZR-1 Prototype

Lot Number: 82
Details: This vehicle pioneered the advantages of "Active Suspension" and has GTP Corvette race car technology. Built at the Bowling Green Plant, this vehicle was developed as a prototype for a limited edition run in the 1990 model year. It may not be driven on public roads.
Day Sold: Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Sale Price*: $150,700.00

2.) 1989 Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1 "Snake Skinner"

Lot Number: 396.1
Details: One of 83 production 1989 ZR-1s built in Bowling Green. This experimental light weight was aimed directly at maintaining Corvette's performance supremacy. With a 475hp LT5 V8 and less weight, this vehicle is GM Performance legend. Sold on a Scrap Title. May not be driven on public roads.
Day Sold: Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Sale Price*: $176,000.0

1.) 1923 Oldsmobile Custom Touring Roadster

Lot Number: 397.2
Details: This Olds concept vehicle is powered by a 4.0 Liter DOHC V8 IMSA GTS-1 race engine with an automatic 4L60E transmission, Halibrand quick change 4.10 rear, 4-wheel independent suspension, rack & pinion power steering and Wilwood 4-wheel disc brakes. Also, because, like the rest, it's a GM concept, it's not legal for driving on public roads.
Day Sold: Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Sale Price*: $220,000.00

*Includes 10% Buyer's Premium

[via Barrett-Jackson]

Nissan is recalling their 2005-2009 trucks and SUVs, which many consider to be the best in the business, due to a faulty crash sensor. In states where cold winters and snow occur, salt is used to clear icy roads and has previously only caused some rusty cars. Nissan is saying that the road salt is causing the crash sensor to corrode which in turn is causing the front-impact airbags to fail.

The recall only affects registered 2005-2009 Xterras, Pathfinders and Frontiers in heavy snow regions including Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia. Nissan won’t leave the rest of its owners out in the cold and will be providing a 10 year warranty for the sensor in other states.

Currently there have been no crashes or injuries linked to the faulty sensor and Nissan will notify owners of the affected models in the next couple of weeks.

Press Release

NISSAN IS RECALLING 242,720 MY 2005-2009 PATHFINDER, FRONTIER AND XTERRA VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WEST VIRGINIA, WISCONSIN, AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. IN THOSE AREAS OF THE COUNTRY WHICH USE HEAVY CONCENTRATIONS OF ROAD SALT IN THE WINTER, A MIXTURE OF SNOW/WATER AND SALT CAN ENTER INTO THE FRONT CRASH ZONE SENSOR (CZS) HOUSING. IF THIS OCCURS, THE CZS MAY INTERNALLY RUST RESULTING IN A SIGNAL INTERRUPTION. IF THIS HAPPENS, THE RED AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT WILL ILLUMINATE TO ALERT THE VEHICLE OPERATOR.

Consequence:
THIS ISSUE COULD RESULT IN THE NON-DEPLOYMENT OF THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER FRONT AIR BAGS IN A CRASH, INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.

Remedy:
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT CZS WITH A REDESIGNED SENSOR. THE MANUFACTURER HAS NOT YET PROVIDED AN OWNER NOTIFICATION SCHEDULE FOR THIS CAMPAIGN. OWNERS IN THE OTHER STATES WILL RECEIVE EXTENDED WARRANTY COVERAGE FOR THE SENSOR TO 10 YEARS. THESE OWNERS WILL BE NOTIFIED OF THE WARRANTY EXTENSION BY MAIL AND WILL RECEIVE A STICKER TO PLACE IN THEIR WARRANTY BOOKLET EXPLAINING THE EXTENDED WARRANTY COVERAGE. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.

Notes:
CUSTOMERS MAY ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV .

[via NHTSA]

A little background. The event was part of a series taking place around the country meant primarily for Suzuki dealers to show off the new SX4 Sport model. Coming along for the ride is the Kizashi 3 concept car, one of the Suzuki Equator pre-production concepts and the Swift Suzuki was kind enough to let us drive. Though sporting a bright orange metallic paint and wheels of questionable origin, this car was a fairly standard mid-level version, sporting the 1.5-liter fourbanger good for about 100 horsepower. Though they have a five-speed manual version back at HQ, this particular model unfortunately carried the four-speed automatic.

Until we start seeing new Fiestas or Mazda2s on the street, sporty and small Euro-style econoboxes are still a rare site. Though there are Mini Coopers and the occasional Smart ForTwo in urban areas, Americans aren't necessarily used to this quality of design from their smaller vehicles.

Given that the Swift name has been used on enough rebadgings to make your head swim, the car benefits from carrying little aesthetic baggage, allowing the designers the freedom to make a car that looks sharp without having to pay homage to any of the crap coming before it. With the exception of the nose of the car featuring grille and fender work inline with the new and sporty Suzuki design language, the car can stand on its own. The high belt line, which looks out-of-place on certain small cars (we're looking at you, Chevy HHR), manages to give the Swift a larger, more athletic presence. The blacked out A and B pillars also help, minimizing focus towards that part of the greenhouse in a way that carries your eyes away from noticing just how small that rear window is. Compare this to an Aveo, which looks small from any angle (hilariously, the Aveo in Canada is marketed as the Swift).

The interior is straightforward and simple, which is what you expect for a car this size. The three-spoke steering wheel isn't cartoonishly large and is even slightly sporty thanks to the ribbons of chrome-looking plastic which also support the thumb controls. The audio and climate control buttons are tiny, leaving the impression that the interior is actually larger than it is. For an economy car the materials aren't insulting and even a sensitive claustrophobic could survive a short trip (for comparison, the five-door Swift is approximately as wide and long as a first generation MINI but with a three-inch shorter wheelbase).

Like many small cars this one is more fun batting around corners than down the straightaway, especially with the automatic transmission. Nevertheless, the little 1.5-liter engine features Suzuki's version of variable valve timing, allowing for a slightly more aggressive power delivery when accelerating. Tossing the Swift around a 90-degree turn at speed was no problem with the little hatch able to main sufficient traction to keep us pointed in the right direction. There's a little lean when turning aggressively, but it's nothing out of the ordinary.

Over uneven roads the ride was a touch bumpy, but not enough to cause premature labor for any pregnant passengers. Braking? The Swift weighs approximately 2,400 pounds (a bit more with two souls on board), meaning the rear drums are more than able to slow us down before we go rolling off of an embankment or into another car during hard braking.

In the cab on the way back to the train station my driver retold a tale of his old Fiesta. As embarrassed as he was to drive it, he says he rarely had as much fun behind the wheel. The nice thing about the Swift is it's a small, quick and most importantly for the buying demographic — cheap car that you wouldn't be embarrassed to drive. Add to that gas-sipping on par or better than some of the more thirstier hybrids and you've got a car that'll embarrass cheaper-looking alternatives like the Toyota Yaris and the Kia Rio. Just because you're on a budget, it doesn't mean you should settle for crap. If this Swift is a good indicator of the Swift to come, budget buyers at least have a little something more to look forward to.

[ED Note: This car is a foreign-import version of the Suzuki Swift, meaning that there could be significant differences between the version tested and the eventual US Version. That being said, the car should give an indication of what we have to expect from a new Swift]

Stop! Stop the video right now. I know it's tempting to run it, but we need to tell you exactly what we did first, by the numbers, so you can fully grasp the dramatic results. On the way to and from the Chicago Auto Show—overlooking the comedic jackassery Ray provided—our mission was to see how high we could push the mileage on these cars while driving them in the manner of a your average skinflint consumer. We hacked nothing off the cars to reduce weight, and we added no special taping or streamlining to enhance the aerodynamics. In fact, we really didn't do nuthin' to enhance the mileage capabilities of these rides. As for go juice, the newly de rigeur low-sulfer diesel fuel, as sanctioned by the EPA, was used in all tests. Same stuff you get when you pull up to the pump.

The 2007 Honda Civic 2.2 i-CTDi was tested under what we considered a "normal use" situation, one occupant (myself), with a weekend suitcase and a computer bag. The 2007 Audi Q7 4.2 TDI was tested with myself as the driver and the same cargo setup, but with the addition of our esteemed videographer, Mr. Mark Arnold, and his gear. Again, we recognize we didn't subject these vehicles to precisely the same conditions, but to conditions we consider the average load for each.

The route to Chicago we chose testing the Civic was notably unexciting. We set aside a roughly 105 mile path between the easternmost convenience plaza after the I-69, Toll Road 80/90 interchange, and the Portage convenience plaza. For reasons of personal incompetence, the eastbound return trip occurred between the same Portage convenience plaza and the first northbound I-69 exit after the the 80/90 to I-69 interchange. The only techniques in play where a judicious use of the gas pedal, coasting (for the manual-transmissioned Civic), and drafting behind semis, which was done at a safe but useful two-to-three car lengths. Jalopnik and Gawker Media in no way endorse tailgating semis, so copy this experiment at your own risk.

Now, restart the video.
__________________________________________________________________________________________

Yes, we know, 72.4 mpg is batshit cazy, but settle down, 'cause you haven't heard the Q7 numbers. Would you believe that a power plant capable of 550 lb.ft. of torque and a 6.4s 0-62 mph time, lugging around 5100 lbs and two svelte bloggers, returned 33.2 mpg? What was that about not handling the truth? Below are the conditions and calculations:

We are aware the gallons of fuel on the video for the Civic doesn't match with the calculation above, but we gave it a second squeeze and the final result was what you see. We have the goddamn receipts, skeptics. Soooo, the upshot? Here we have two stock vehicles you can't get in the US, delivering what everybody in their right mind would call impossible mileage, with little effort under less than ideal conditions. What does that mean to us? Well, it means all that bellyaching from automakers about unachievable CAFE targets and the less competitive, unsafe vehicles that would come from high targets is total, unadulterated bull-pucky. The solution to this pressing mileage-target legislation is an absolute no-brainer: Drop a diesel in everybody's lap and call it a day. 35 mpg from a passenger car should be child's play, if done right. This test only confirms—and frankly stokes—our burning desire for good, fun-to-drive, economical diesels on American roads. So where are they? They're elsewhere in the world. But here in the land of freedom and opportunity, the righteous and patriotic boosters of decent mileage numbers are forced to make do with runty gas-burners and do-gooder hybrids that don't exactly reward on the performance front. The times, they gotta change, and there's no reason they can't change like, um, right now.

Video production and voice over credit to Mark Arnold

The Euro spec Honda Civic 5 door we got looks like nothing on the road. Slightly alien, a little bizarre, suspiciously exciting, it's a mix and match of gentle curves and ridiculous angles that all work together to form something that really stands out. Park this at your local Wally World and you're not going to have a hard time finding it. We got comments after pulling into a Taco Bell at two in the morning. Not that the swoopy shape doesn't have it's drawbacks. The giant C-pillars take some getting used to, and while they aren't as bad as the black holes on the Toyota FJ Cruiser, it's advisable to get used to looking twice. The steep, sloping A-pillars do their part to block vision at intersections, but they don't present to much opportunity for trouble. What we don't like at all is the spoiler bump in the rear hatch. It would block headlights at dusk and at night, and it also imposes a claustrophobic feeling when checking the rear view. That said, it's not too hard to adjust to it.

The rest of the interior is a home run. The seats offer reasonable bolster, but are covered in a nice, grippy sort of perforated micofiber. They're adjustable up and down to accommodate drivers of all sizes. The tilting and telescoping steering wheel allows the instrumentation to comfortably accessed. The shifter is very similar to the uniball design Volvo introduced in the S60 a couple of years ago, but it fits nicely with the decor. We're truly smitten with the gauge cluster, however. The layout is shared with the U.S.-version Civic, featuring analog informational gauges down low and a redundant digital speedometer at the base of the windshield. What's different here is the gauges: They're a softly lit, dramatic blue concentric set with a small, square digital LED readout in the center. Not only is it gorgeous, it works great in operation. One unfortunate bauble is the gimmicky start button, which needs to be pushed, in addition to turning the key in the ignition, which is annoying in operation. We want to do one or the other, not both. Back seat? Comfortable, folds really flat for huge pass through storage. Nothing more to say there.

All right already, on to the driving. We want this engine. It does it all: delivers great mileage, supplies torque out the wazoo, has really fun engine response, and boasts a turbo whistle, to boot. At idle, the engine is a bit clattery—moreso than we would expect from a Euro offering—but once you tap the pedal things smooth out. It's a very Honda-like two engines in one: If you treat it gently, the 2.2L 138hp diesel is tame enough for Grandma; but step on it and the rush of torque is smooth and delightful. Redline comes quick at 4,500 rpm, but shifting the six speed manual keeps things in a glorious meaty chunk of 251 lb.ft. of torque. Putting the power to the pavement overwhelms the traction control and you find yourself reaching for the defeat button. Steering feedback is a couple ticks tighter then the U.S. Civic, and cornering is adequate, but the tires give up earlier than the suspension does. Road feel is perfectly acceptable, serving up a comfortable ride, not too harsh, not too soft. Sort of the Goldilocks of suspensions.

This Civic puts a whole new spin on a car we've routinely panned as boring and pedestrian in the U.S. The rare combination of unique styling, magical engine, and very nicely put-together interior has us pining for the car even more now that we've driven it. Despite the flaws, this is a really fun car which spits in the face of the diesel stereotype while embracing its most valuable asset: incredible mileage. Just how good was the mileage? You'll have to come back and find out tomorrow.

Photography by Chris Doane

FORD ANNOUNCES 2007 FOURTH QUARTER AND FULL YEAR PRELIMINARY RESULTS

* Full-year net loss of $2.7 billion, an improvement of $9.9 billion from 2006. Fourth-quarter net loss of $2.8 billion, an improvement of more than $2.8 billion from 2006.
* Excluding special items++, full-year pre-tax profit from continuing operations was $126 million, up $3.3 billion from a year ago. Fourth-quarter pre-tax loss was $620 million, an improvement of $1.3 billion.
* All Automotive operations, with the exception of North America, were profitable for the full-year, excluding special items, and all Automotive operations achieved significant improvements when compared with 2006.
Automotive gross cash of $34.6 billion at Dec. 31, 2007, $700 million above year-end 2006. +++
* Significant progress made on our plan to aggressively restructure to operate profitably, accelerate the development of new products our customers want and value, finance our plan and improve the balance sheet, and work together effectively as one team, leveraging our global assets.

Financial Results Summary

DEARBORN, Mich., Jan. 24, 2008 - Ford Motor Company [NYSE: F] today reported a 2007 full-year net loss of $1.35 per share, or $2.7 billion. This compares with a 2006 full-year net loss of $6.72 per share, or $12.6 billion.

Ford's 2007 revenue, excluding special items, was $173.9 billion, up from $160.1 billion a year ago. The increase primarily reflected changes in exchange rates, higher net pricing and improved product mix.

For full-year 2007, Ford earned a pre-tax operating profit from continuing operations, excluding special items, of $126 million. Including taxes, Ford's full-year loss from continuing operations was $366 million, or 19 cents per share, compared with a 2006 loss of $2.7 billion, or $1.44 per share.

Special items, which primarily reflected non-cash charges associated with a Premier Automotive Group (PAG) asset impairment (related to Volvo) and a change in business practice for providing retail incentives to dealers throughout the year, reduced full-year pre-tax results by $3.9 billion or $1.18 per share, which included a reduction in revenue of $1.4 billion.

Automotive gross cash, which includes cash and cash equivalents, net marketable securities, loaned securities and short-term VEBA assets, was $34.6 billion at Dec. 31, 2007, an increase of $700 million from year-end 2006.

"Each of our Automotive operations is improving, and we are encouraged by the progress, which validates our strategy and plan," said Ford President and CEO Alan Mulally. "In 2007, we introduced great new products around the globe that received strong third-party endorsements for styling, quality and safety. This year, we have some outstanding new product introductions including the Ford Flex, Lincoln MKS, and Ford F-150 in North America, and Ford Kuga and the production version of the Ford Verve concept in Europe."

FULL YEAR HIGHLIGHTS
Full-year 2007 highlights supporting the company's plan included:

* Reached agreement with the United Auto Workers (UAW) on a new four-year national labor contract, which significantly improves the company's competitiveness going forward.
* Continued to align capacity to match demand and improve productivity in North America, and reduced personnel by 32,800 in 2007.
* Achieved $1.8 billion in cost savings in 2007 (at constant volume, mix and exchange; excluding special items).
* Introduced Ford SYNC - the company's award-winning, fully integrated, voice-activated in-car communications and entertainment system developed in association with Microsoft - which will be available in nearly every Ford, Lincoln and Mercury product by the end of 2008.
* In the U.S., Ford, Lincoln and Mercury crossover utility vehicles led the fastest-growing segment with a sales gain of 62 percent in 2007.
* The Ford Mustang convertible made history as the first sports car and first convertible to earn the highest possible safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA). The Mustang convertible earned five-star ratings in all crash test and rollover categories.
* Ford Taurus, Taurus X and Mercury Sable earned Top Safety Pick ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for achieving the highest possible ratings in frontal, side and rear crash test performance. They also earned five-star crash-test ratings from NHTSA.
* Ford Europe captured Autocar Magazine's annual "Car Company of the Year" award.
* Ford Mondeo joins three other models - Ford Focus, Galaxy and S-MAX - with a five-star performance on the Euro NCAP Top 10 list, reinforcing Ford Europe's position as the manufacturer with the highest number of vehicles in the top 10 for adult occupant protection.
* Ford South America had record pre-tax profits and unit sales were up 19 percent year-over-year.
* Land Rover achieved a third straight year of record unit sales.
* Volvo S80 won AutoMundo Magazine's 2007 Car of the Year Award, and Volvo C30 was named Automobile Magazine's 2008 All-Star.
* Launched operations at new assembly plant in Nanjing, China, that will produce the latest small-car models from both Ford and Mazda.
* Ford China unit sales rose 26 percent in 2007, outpacing industry growth in China.
* Mazda CX-9 named "North American Truck of the Year," the first-ever Mazda to win the honor.
* Completed the sale of Automobile Protection Corporation (APCO), Aston Martin and two Automotive Components Holdings plants.
* Reduced Automotive debt by $2.7 billion by completing trust preferred exchange offer and debt/equity swap.

FOURTH QUARTER
The company reported a 2007 fourth-quarter net loss of $1.30 per share, or $2.8 billion. This compares with a net loss of $2.98 per share, or $5.6 billion in the same period a year ago.

Ford's fourth-quarter revenue, excluding special items, was $45.5 billion, up from $40.3 billion a year ago. The increase reflected changes in currency exchange rates, higher net pricing, and improved volume.

Ford's fourth-quarter after-tax loss from continuing operations, excluding special items, was 20 cents per share, or $429 million, compared with a 2006 after-tax loss of $1.03 per share, or $2.0 billion.

Special items reduced pre-tax results by $3.9 billion or $1.10 per share in the fourth quarter, which included a revenue reduction of $1.4 billion. These primarily reflected non-cash charges associated with a PAG asset impairment (related to Volvo) and a change in business practice for providing retail incentives to dealers.

The following discussion of the results of our Automotive sector and Automotive segments/business units is on a basis that excludes special items. See tables following "Safe Harbor/Risk Factors" for the nature and amount of these special items and any necessary reconciliations to U.S. GAAP.

AUTOMOTIVE SECTOR
For the full year, Ford's worldwide Automotive sector reported a pre-tax loss of $1.1 billion, compared with a pre-tax loss of $5.1 billion a year ago. The improvements primarily reflected higher net pricing, lower costs, and favorable mix, partially offset by unfavorable changes in currency exchange rates, and higher net interest expense.

For the fourth quarter, Ford's worldwide Automotive sector reported a pre-tax loss of $889 million, compared with a pre-tax loss of $2.3 billion during the same period a year ago. The improvements were more than explained by higher net pricing and improved volume and mix, partially offset by unfavorable changes in currency exchange rates and higher net interest expense.

Worldwide Automotive revenue for 2007 was $155.8 billion, compared with $143.3 billion a year ago. Total fourth-quarter Automotive revenue was $40.8 billion, up from $36.0 billion a year ago.

Total company vehicle wholesales in 2007 were 6,553,000, compared with 6,597,000 units a year ago. Fourth-quarter vehicle wholesales were 1,643,000, up from 1,568,000 a year ago.

North America: For 2007, Ford's North America Automotive operations reported a pre-tax loss of $3.5 billion, compared to a loss of $6.0 billion a year ago. The improvement primarily reflected higher net pricing, favorable mix, and lower costs, partially offset by a number of factors including lower volumes and unfavorable changes in currency exchange rates. For the year, revenue was $70.5 billion, up from $69.4 billion a year ago.

For the fourth quarter, North America Automotive operations reported a pre-tax loss of $1.6 billion, compared with a loss of $2.7 billion a year ago. The improvement primarily reflected higher net pricing, and improved volume and mix, partially offset by higher costs and unfavorable changes in currency exchange rates. Fourth quarter revenue was $17.0 billion, up from $15.1 billion a year ago.

South America: Ford's South America operations reported a full-year pre-tax profit of $1.2 billion, compared with a profit of $551 million a year ago. The improvement was explained by higher net pricing and volume, partially offset by increased costs. Full-year revenue improved to $7.6 billion from $5.7 billion in 2006.

For the fourth quarter, Ford's South America operations posted a pre-tax profit of $418 million, up from $114 million a year ago. The improvement reflected higher net pricing and higher volume. Fourth-quarter revenue improved to $2.4 billion from $1.7 billion a year ago.

Ford Europe: Ford Europe's full-year pre-tax profit was $997 million, up from $455 million in 2006. The improvement reflected continued progress on cost reductions, improved volume and mix, and higher net pricing. Full-year revenue improved to $36.5 billion from $30.4 billion in 2006.

For the fourth quarter, Ford Europe pre-tax profits were $223 million, up from $218 million a year ago. The improvement was primarily explained by favorable cost performance, offset by lower volume. Fourth-quarter revenue was $10.4 billion, an improvement from $8.8 billion a year ago.

Premier Automotive Group (PAG): PAG reported a full-year pre-tax profit of $504 million, compared with a loss of $344 million a year ago. The improvement was more than explained by cost reductions across all brands, volume growth, and higher net pricing at Land Rover, partially offset by unfavorable changes in currency exchange rates and adverse mix. Volvo incurred a loss for the full year. Full-year revenue for PAG was $33.2 billion, compared with $30.0 billion in 2006.

For the fourth quarter, PAG reported a $59 million profit, compared with $174 million in the same period a year ago. The decline was more than explained by Volvo, primarily reflecting adverse currency exchange rates, product mix, and the non-repeat of one-time profit impacts included in 2006 results. Within PAG, Volvo was breakeven, with the combined Jaguar and Land Rover operations accounting for the profit. PAG revenue for the quarter was $9.0 billion, compared with $8.6 billion a year ago.

Asia Pacific and Africa: For full-year 2007, Asia Pacific and Africa reported a pre-tax profit of $40 million, compared with a pre-tax loss of $185 million a year ago. The improvement primarily reflected favorable cost performance and net revenue, and higher profits from our Chinese joint ventures, partially offset by adverse mix and exchange. Full-year revenue was $7.0 billion, compared with $6.5 billion a year ago.

For the fourth quarter, Asia Pacific and Africa reported a pre-tax profit of $10 million, compared with a pre-tax loss of $135 million a year ago. The improvement primarily reflected favorable net revenue, improved cost performance, and higher profits in China. Fourth-quarter revenue was $1.7 billion, compared with $1.4 billion in 2006.

Mazda: For the full year, Ford earned $204 million from its investment in Mazda and associated operations, compared with $168 million in 2006. Ford earned $83 million from its investment in Mazda and associated operations in the fourth quarter, compared with $51 million a year ago.

Other Automotive: Other Automotive, which consists of interest and financing-related costs, accounted for a full-year pre-tax loss of $547 million, compared with a pre-tax profit of $247 million in 2006. The decline primarily reflected the non-recurrence of last year's tax-related interest income of about $670 million, and higher net interest expense associated with financing implemented during the fourth quarter of 2006.

Fourth-quarter Other Automotive results included a pre-tax loss of $128 million, compared with a pre-tax loss of $59 million a year ago. The change was more than explained by higher net interest expense.

FINANCIAL SERVICES SECTOR
For the full year, the Financial Services sector earned a pre-tax profit of $1.2 billion, compared with a pre-tax profit of $2.0 billion in 2006. For the fourth quarter, the Financial Services sector earned $269 million, compared with $416 million a year ago.

Ford Motor Credit Company: Ford Motor Credit Company reported net income of $775 million in 2007, down from earnings of $1.3 billion a year ago. On a pre-tax basis, Ford Motor Credit earned $1.2 billion in 2007, down $738 million from 2006. The decrease in full-year earnings primarily reflected the non-recurrence of credit loss reserve reductions, higher borrowing costs, higher depreciation expense for leased vehicles and higher costs due to Ford Motor Credit's North American business transformation initiative. These factors were partially offset by lower net losses related to market valuation adjustments from derivatives and improved operating costs.

In the fourth quarter of 2007, Ford Motor Credit's net income was $186 million, down $93 million from a year earlier. On a pre-tax basis, Ford Motor Credit earned $263 million in the fourth quarter, compared with $406 million in the previous year. The decrease in fourth quarter earnings primarily reflected the non-recurrence of credit loss reserve reductions, higher borrowing costs and higher depreciation expense for leased vehicles, offset partially by lower expenses and the non-recurrence of losses related to market valuation adjustments from derivatives.

American Honda Posts 11th Consecutive Year of Record Sales in 2007

American Honda Motor Co., Inc., today announced record sales results for the 11th consecutive year. Sales from both Honda and Acura Divisions totaled 1,551,542 and pushed American Honda annual sales up 2.5 percent, based on the daily selling rate*. The results also mark the company's 14th consecutive year-over-year sales increase. American Honda's December sales totaled 131,792 vehicles, a slight increase versus December, 2006.

2007 Acura total year end sales reached 180,104 vehicles, and for a second consecutive year, Acura light trucks posted record year-end sales, eclipsing 2006 by 29.1 percent. December sales of all Acura models rose dramatically over November with TL recording 5,988 sales, MDX posting 5,906 sales, TSX logging 2,838 vehicles and RDX posting 2,263 units for the month. [Source: Honda]

Total Chrysler LLC December 2007 Sales Up 1 Percent on the Strength of Retail; Demand for Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan Continues to Grow

Built on the strength of retail, Chrysler LLC's total U.S. sales for December 2007 were 191,423 units; an increase of 1 percent compared with December 2006 sales of 190,415 units. Fleet sales for the month were down, as compared with December 2006. For 2007, total Chrysler LLC sales were 2,076,650, a decrease from 2006 of 3 percent from the 2,142,505 units sold in 2006. All sales figures are reported as unadjusted.

Chrysler finished the month with 438,390 units of inventory, or a 60-day supply. Inventory is down by 19 percent compared with December 2006 when it was at 538,438 units. [Source: Chrysler LLC]

GM Reports 323,453 December Deliveries; 3.87 Million Vehicles Sold in 2007

DETROIT - GM dealers in the United States delivered 323,453 vehicles in December, down 5 percent compared with a year ago. With 257,469 retail vehicle deliveries, retail sales for the month were up 1.5 percent.

GM North America built 1.042 million vehicles (358,000 cars and 684,000 trucks) in the fourth-quarter of 2007. This is down 65,000 vehicles or 6 percent compared to fourth-quarter of 2006 when the region produced 1.107 million vehicles (446,000 cars and 661,000 trucks). Additionally, the region's 2008 first-quarter production forecast remains unchanged at 950,000 vehicles (344,000 cars and 606,000 trucks). [Source: GM]

Toyota Reports 2007 And December Sales

January 3, 2008 - Torrance, CA - With 12 consecutive years of record-breaking sales, Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported best-ever year-end sales of 2,620,825 vehicles, up 2.7 percent over 2006.

"Great products and value drive a volatile market and put the consumer in the driver's seat," said TMS President Jim Lentz. "Toyota, Lexus and Scion deliver on both."

Toyota Division recorded best-ever year-end sales of 2,291,648 vehicles, up 2.9 percent over the prior year. Lexus retained its position as the best-selling luxury brand in America for the eighth consecutive year, selling a best-ever total of 329,177 units in 2007, up 1.8 percent over 2006. With overall sales of 130,181, the Scion line of vehicles contributed to the record sales year.

TMS reported December sales results of 224,399, a decrease of 1.7 percent from the same period last year.

Toyota Division
Toyota Division reported December sales of 189,844 units. Toyota Division passenger cars recorded December sales of 101,741 units, with best-ever year-end sales of 1,313,651 units, up 2.7 percent over last year. For the year, passenger-car sales were led by Camry, which posted annual sales of 473,108, an increase of 5.2 percent. Corolla posted year-end sales of 371,390. The Yaris subcompact reported year-end sales totaling 84,799, up 20.2 percent over 2006 sales. Prius gas-electric hybrid mid-size sedan reported sales of 14,212 units for a best-ever December and best-ever year-end sales of 181,221 units, up 68.9 percent over 2006.

Toyota Division light trucks reported December sales of 88,103 units, with best-ever year-end sales of 977,997, an increase of 3.2 percent over 2006. Light truck sales were led by the all-new Tundra with best-ever year-end sales of 196,555, up 57.4 percent over the prior year. RAV4 compact sport utility vehicle reported best-ever year-end sales of 172,752, up 13.2 percent over last year.

Scion reported December sales of 8,944 units. The Scion xB urban utility vehicle recorded December sales of 3,785 units with year-end sales totaling 45,834. The tC sports coupe reported December sales of 3,507 units with year-end sales reaching 63,852 units.

Lexus Division
Lexus reported December sales of 34,555 units, down 7.2 percent from the year-ago month. Lexus passenger cars reported December sales of 19,840 units and achieved best-ever year-end results of 200,334 units, up 9.1 percent over 2006.
Lexus passenger car sales were led by the ES 350 luxury sedan with December sales of 8,005 units and best-ever year-end sales of 82,867, an increase of 8.7 percent over 2006. The IS 250 and IS 350 luxury sport sedans recorded combined best-ever December sales of 5,651 units and combined best-ever year-end sales of 54,993 units, an increase of 0.9 percent. The LS 460/460 L and new LS 600h L luxury sedans reported combined December sales of 3,257 and year-end sales of 35,226 units, an increase of 79.6 percent over 2006.
Lexus Division light trucks reported December sales of 14,715 units and year-end sales of 128,843 units. The RX 350 and RX 400h enjoyed combined December sales of 11,835 units and year-end sales of 103,340 units, exceeding 100,000 units for the fourth consecutive year. The RX 400h luxury hybrid SUV reported sales of 17,291 units for the year.

TMS Hybrids
TMS calendar-year-to-date hybrid sales totaled 277,750 units, up 44 percent from
2006. In December, TMS posted sales of 24,269 hybrid vehicles, up 36 percent over last December. Toyota Division posted December sales of 21,972 hybrids and year-end sales of 257,765 units, up 51 percent over 2006. Lexus Division posted sales of 2,297 hybrids for the month and 19,985 units for the year.

There were 307 selling days in 2007, as compared to 306 selling days in 2006. There were 26 selling days this sales month and last December. [Source: Toyota]

CROSSOVERS, LINCOLN HIGHLIGHT FORD'S 2007 SALES PERFORMANCE; FURTHER GROWTH EXPECTED IN 2008

DEARBORN, Mich., Jan. 3, 2008 - Led by two new and three redesigned models, Ford, Lincoln and Mercury crossover utility vehicles paced the industry's fastest-growing segment with a gain of 62 percent in 2007, more than triple the industry-wide growth of 17 percent. In its first full year, Ford Edge sales were 130,125, exceeding Ford's original forecast by 30 percent. In December, Edge capped off the year with its best-ever retail sales month.

"Ford Edge is a great example of our plan to build products people really want to buy," said Jim Farley, Ford's group vice president, Marketing and Communications. "Demand is growing at a fast pace beyond the nation's heartland, our traditional region of strength."

Ford expects continued growth in crossovers in 2008 with the mid-year introduction of the Ford Flex.

Lincoln achieved full-year sales of 131,487, a 9 percent increase versus 2006. The Lincoln MKX crossover was the largest contributor to Lincoln's growth, but the MKZ sedan and Lincoln Navigator also helped spur Lincoln's momentum, which began in late 2006. The next new Lincoln was revealed at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November - the MKS sedan that will debut this summer.

Sales for the new Ford Focus were up 3 percent in December (9 percent at retail). Focus sales were up 18 percent in November, the first full month for the new model.

Ford's F-Series truck was America's best-selling truck in 2007 - the 31st year in a row - with full year sales of 690,589. F-Series was also the best-selling vehicle, car or truck, for 26 years in a row.

Ford's full-year 2007 sales totaled 2.57 million, down 12 percent compared with a year ago. Retail sales were down 10 percent and fleet sales were down 18 percent (including a 32 percent reduction in daily rental sales). More than two thirds of Ford's sales decline reflected discontinued products.

Ford's December sales totaled 212,094, down 9 percent compared with a year ago. Retail sales were down 13 percent and fleet sales were down 1 percent.

2008 Outlook
Ford expects the economic environment to remain challenging in 2008. Ford has said it expects the first half U.S. auto sales rate to be in the range of 15.5 to 16.0 million in the first half (light vehicle sales in the range of 15.2 to 15.7 million).

"We are restructuring our business to be profitable at lower demand and changed mix and accelerating the development of new products people want to buy," Farley said. "We have more work to do to reach our ultimate goal - profitable growth for all. But we have made progress in a short amount of time in several key areas."

Note: The sales data included in this release and the accompanying tables are based largely on data reported by dealers representing their sales to retail and fleet customers.

[Source: Ford]

GM Reports Third Quarter Financial Results

Record third quarter automotive revenue of $43.1 billion
Improved automotive operations on continued strength in emerging markets
Ongoing challenges in U.S. mortgage market adversely impact GM income from GMAC
$39 billion reported loss driven by $39 billion valuation allowance on deferred tax assets
Improved liquidity position of $30 billion

DETROIT - General Motors Corp. (NYSE: GM) today announced its financial results for the third quarter of 2007, marked by record global sales, further improvement in its core automotive business driven by solid financial performance in key growth markets around the world and improved liquidity.

"We continue to implement the key elements of our North America turnaround strategy, and these initiatives are driving steady improvement in our financial results, despite challenging North America market conditions. In addition, we are very encouraged by our performance in emerging markets. Our record third quarter global sales are strong evidence that our commitment to great cars and trucks is being embraced by consumers around the globe." said Rick Wagoner, GM chairman and chief executive officer.

The company's improved performance in its automotive operations was more than offset by special charges of $37.4 billion related largely to a previously announced valuation allowance against its deferred tax assets, as well as lower reported GMAC Financial Services income, down $630 million versus the year-ago quarter as a result of continued pressures in the mortgage industry.

GM reported a net loss of $39 billion (including Allison Transmission, which is classified as a discontinued operation), or $68.85 per diluted share, for the third quarter of 2007, compared with a reported net loss of $147 million, or $.26 per diluted share, in the year-ago quarter.

Special items included a net non-cash charge of $38.6 billion due to a valuation allowance against deferred tax assets related to operations in the U.S., Canada and Germany as required under SFAS No. 109, Accounting for Income Taxes. Also included was a favorable $3.5 billion after-tax gain on the sale of the Allison Transmission business in August 2007, for which GM received $5.4 billion in proceeds. GM also had special charges of $1.6 billion in pension service costs related to prior labor agreements, $0.4 billion associated with restructuring actions and $0.4 billion related to an adjustment to the Delphi reserve. Details on all of the special charges are included in the "Highlights" section of this news release.

Excluding special items, GM had a 2007 third-quarter adjusted net loss of $1.6 billion, or $2.80 per diluted share, compared to net income of $497 million, or $.88 per diluted share, in the year-ago quarter. The variance was driven primarily by a significant decline in net income at GMAC, as well as increased corporate expense related to legacy cost, foreign exchange and various 2006 tax benefits, partially offset by improved performance in automotive operations.

GM Automotive Operations

GM's global automotive operations posted net income of $122 million from continuing operations on an adjusted basis in the third quarter of 2007 (reported net loss of $40.6 billion), an improvement of $577 million compared to an adjusted net loss from continuing operations of $455 million (reported net loss of $401 million) in the same quarter 2006. Results for GM's automotive operations, specifically GMNA, exclude Allison Transmission, which was classified as a discontinued operation as a result of the sale of that business which was concluded in August 2007.

GM generated record third quarter automotive revenue of $43.1 billion. The company also achieved record global third quarter sales of 2.39 million cars and trucks, up four percent compared to the third quarter 2006, driven by exceptionally strong demand in emerging markets and improved performance in developed markets. GM also set a number of third quarter sales records around the globe, including a 22 percent increase in GMLAAM, 16 percent increase in the GMAP region, and 15 percent gain in GME.

"We continue to see solid progress in the fundamentals of our automotive business. We're very pleased with our strong sales performance in key markets outside of North America, and growing retail momentum in the U.S. driven by products like the all-new Cadillac CTS. We're also very encouraged by the early reactions to our all-new Chevrolet Malibu and 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon two-mode hybrids - the world's only full-size hybrid SUVs," said Wagoner.

GMNA had an adjusted net loss from continuing operations of $247 million in the third quarter 2007 (reported net loss from continuing operations of $38.2 billion, which includes charges of approximately $36.5 billion for a valuation allowance against its deferred tax assets and $1.3 billion for pension service costs related to prior labor agreements), compared to an adjusted net loss of $660 million from continuing operations in the third quarter 2006 (reported net loss from continuing operations of $667 million). GMNA's improved adjusted earnings reflect favorable mix, pricing and better warranty performance, which were partially offset by lower volume and increased material cost.

GME posted an adjusted net loss of $90 million in the third quarter (reported net loss of $2.9 billion, which includes charges of $2.5 billion for a valuation allowance against deferred tax assets in Germany and restructuring charges of $262 million), compared to $39 million loss in the third quarter of 2006 (reported net loss of $126 million). The variance in adjusted net income reflects the softness of the German market and unfavorable currency exchange, which was partially offset by improved pricing and higher volume.

GME achieved record third quarter sales of about 524,000 units, aided by continued momentum of GME's multi-brand strategy during the period. Chevrolet is amongst the fastest growing global vehicle brands in Europe, posting record third quarter sales of 113,000 vehicles. GM gained further ground in the growing Russian market, with sales up by 75 percent over the same quarter 2006, to a record 65,700 vehicles.

GMAP recorded adjusted net income of $138 million in the third quarter (reported net income also $138 million), compared with $57 million in the year ago period (reported net income of $205 million, which included $148 million in favorable tax-related items). This favorable earnings performance was driven largely by strong export growth from GM Daewoo, continued strong sales and profitability in China, and improved earnings in India and Australia.

GM achieved 16 percent sales growth in the Asia Pacific region, resulting in record third quarter sales of 327,500 units. GM China sold 230,000 vehicles, a 21 percent increase compared with the year ago period. GM sales in the region were also aided by the strong performance of GM Daewoo products, including the Chevrolet Captiva.

GMLAAM achieved all-time record earnings and quarterly sales in the third quarter, posting adjusted earnings of $340 million (reported net income also $340 million), up 86 percent compared with strong earnings in the year ago period of $183 million (reported net income also $183 million). The earnings improvement was driven primarily by volume growth, favorable pricing and vehicle mix.

GMLAAM set a third quarter sales record of over 329,000 vehicles, up almost 22 percent year-over-year. All-time sales records were achieved in Brazil, Colombia, Venezuela, Argentina and Egypt. The successful launch of the Chevrolet Captiva in South Africa, Venezuela, Colombia and the Middle East helped drive strong sales in the region.

GMAC

As a standalone company, GMAC Financial Services reported a net loss of $1.6 billion for the third quarter 2007, compared to a net loss of $173 million in the third quarter 2006. The reported results for the third quarter of 2007 included a $455 million goodwill impairment charge at Residential Capital, LLC (ResCap), while a goodwill impairment charge of $695 million related to GMAC Commercial Finance was reflected in results for the third quarter of 2006.

Results were dominated by the effects of the dislocation in the mortgage and credit markets on the real estate finance business, which more than offset the continued strong performance at GMAC's automotive finance, insurance and other operations.

GM recognized $757 million of the net loss attributable to GMAC as a result of its 49 percent equity interest and accrued preferred dividends (reported net loss of $803 million).

Cash and Liquidity

GM continues to have a strong liquidity position. Cash, marketable securities, and readily-available assets of the Voluntary Employees' Beneficiary Association (VEBA) trust grew to $30 billion as of September 30, 2007, up from $27.2 billion on June 30, 2007. The balance includes $5.4 billion of net cash proceeds from the completion of the Allison Transmission transaction in August 2007.

GM had negative adjusted automotive operating cash flow of $2.5 billion in the third quarter of 2007, improved from a negative $3.9 billion in the third quarter 2006.

# # #

Forward-looking Statements
In this press release and in related comments by General Motors' management our use of words like "expect," "anticipate," "estimate," "forecast," "initiative," "objective," "plan," "goal," "project," "outlook," "priorities," "target," "intend," "evaluate," "pursue," "seek," "may," "would," "could," "should," "believe," "potential," "continue," "designed," "impact," or the negative of any of those words or similar expressions is intended to identify forward-looking statements that represent our current judgment about possible future events. We believe these judgments are reasonable, but GM's actual results may differ materially due to a variety of important factors. Among other items, such factors include: the ability of GM to realize production efficiencies, to achieve reductions in costs as a result of the turnaround restructuring and health care cost reductions and to implement capital expenditures at levels and times planned by management; the pace of product introductions; market acceptance of our new products; significant changes in the competitive environment and the effect of competition in our markets, including on our pricing policies; our ability to maintain adequate liquidity and financing sources and an appropriate level of debt; changes in the existing, or the adoption of new laws, regulations, policies, or other activities of governments, agencies, and similar organizations where such actions may affect the production, licensing, distribution, or sale of our products, the cost thereof or applicable tax rates; costs and risks associated with litigation; the final results of investigations and inquiries by the SEC and other governmental agencies; changes in accounting principles, or their application or interpretation, and our ability to make estimates and the assumptions underlying the estimates, including the range of estimates for the Delphi pension benefit guarantees, which could result in an impact on earnings; negotiations and bankruptcy court actions with respect to Delphi's obligations to GM, negotiations with respect to GM's obligations under the pension benefit guarantees to Delphi employees, and GM's ability to recover any indemnity claims against Delphi; labor strikes or work stoppages at GM or its key suppliers such as Delphi or financial difficulties at GM's key suppliers such as Delphi; completion of the final settlement with the UAW and UAW retirees, including securing class certification in a form acceptable to GM, the UAW and class counsel; completion of the final settlement with the UAW and UAW retirees, including obtaining court approval in a form acceptable to GM, the UAW, and class counsel; treatment of the terms of the 2006 Settlement Agreement pursuant to the Retiree MOU in a manner acceptable to GM, the UAW and class counsel; GM's completion of discussions with the Staff of the SEC regarding accounting treatment with respect to the New VEBA and the post-retirement medical benefits for the covered group as set forth in the Retiree MOU, on a basis reasonably satisfactory to GM; shortages of and price increases for fuel; factors affecting GMAC's results of operations and financial conditions and changes in the residential mortgage market, especially in the nonprime sector; significant changes in the competitive environment and the effect of competition in GMAC's markets, including on GMAC's pricing policies; GMAC's ability to maintain adequate financing sources; GMAC's ability to maintain an appropriate level of debt; restrictions on the ability of GMAC's residential mortgage subsidiary to pay dividends and prepay subordinated debt obligations to GMAC; changes in the residual value of off-lease vehicles; changes in U.S. government-sponsored mortgage programs or disruptions in the markets in which GMAC's mortgage subsidiaries operate; changes in GMAC's contractual servicing rights; changes in the credit ratings of GMAC or GM; and changes in economic conditions, commodity prices, currency exchange rates, or political stability in the markets in which we or GMAC operate. The most recent annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K filed by GM and GMAC provide information about these factors, which may be revised or supplemented in future reports to the SEC on those forms.

Yes: It was to be a shimmering jaunt from the center of Los Angeles to a half-forgotten drag strip 15 miles north of Bakersfield over a stretch of Interstate 5 that locals colloquially call "the Ridge Route," a mountain pass that climbs out of the San Fernando Valley and bridges the City of Angels and the dusty kicked-shit of Kern County.

Ironically, in an agrarian landscape where rain is for rent and irrigation from the California aqueduct germinates the orange groves, Top Fuel qualifying was washed out the night before, so today was the day to absorb copious amounts of nitromethane burning and billowing through vintage-styled aluminum combustion chambers.

While loading up the car CNN was on in the background, and I had processed — and then ignored — reports of a fiery multi-big rig collision that had transpired late last night somewhere between Vasquez Rocks and Magic Mountain, more specifically at the junction of the 14 and 5 freeways .

I never made it beyond the Denny's off of Tuxford and miles south of Santa Clarita; Interstate 5 was a parking lot and traffic was shut down in both directions, due to the freeway still burning from the tractor-trailer pile-up and conflagration the night before. – Cole Coonce

The latest wire reports have two truck drivers dead and ten injured. Which gives me pause... Chance are, I'll get another opportunity to watch Top Fuel cars in Bakersfield and file a report for Jalopnik. But for a few unfortunate truckers, they have dropped their last heavy load. – Cole Coonce