Arias Pistons 12.5:1 Compression 82mm Bore Honda B-series on 2040-parts.com

Ownership costs of traditional versus alternative fuel vehicles

As gas prices remain high, and an increasing number of automakers roll out plug-in hybrid cars and full-electric vehicles, it's becoming easier to be tantalized with the idea of driving right past the gas station and simply "plugging in." The debate ensues when it comes to cost: These alternative fuel vehicles mean a larger outlay of cash at the onset, but the long-term fuel savings could make the purchase worthwhile. To help straighten out this numbers game, we use the Department of Energy's Vehicle Cost Calculator to compare alternative fuel vehicles with their gasoline-only counterparts. For each scenario, we assumed that our hypothetical owner was able to get the full $7,500 federal tax credit and a $2,500 state tax credit, such as is available in California.

Subaru Forester

Subaru has confirmed that the its new Forester SUV will be making its debut at the 2012 Los Angeles auto show later this month. The fourth-generation five-seater Forester, which is 4,595 mm long, 1,795 mm wide, 1,695 mm high sitting on a wheelbase of 2,640 mm, was developed to highlight its handling and stopping capabilities, enhanced safety and environmental performance. A ground clearance of 221 mm also emphasizes its ability to navigate all road conditions.

Red Bull 1-2 in Abu Dhabi

Sebastian Vettel wins the first Abu Dhabi Grand Prix at Yas Marina It was billed as a procession; a meaningless final race to the topsy-turvy 2009 F1 season. And in a sense it was. Sebastian Vettel managed to best Lewis Hamilton in the McLaren early on, but that tussle never took off after Hamilton retired with dodgy brakes, leaving Vettel to cruise to victory.