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.

One Lap of the Web: Automotive feats of strength, stylish eBay finds and Australian speed limits

-- Like you, we've often wondered which vehicle would win in a tug of war: a Land Rover Defender, or a diesel Ram truck. And while we were wondering, some enterprising gents in the U.K. have actually gone out and done it.

Italian Grand Prix (2012) RESULT

With McLaren locking out the front row of the grid in Monza, will the 2012 Italian Grand Prix see the Woking team dominate? Spa saw Jenson Button drive brilliantly for a lights to flag win, and here at Monza Button is riding shotgun for Hamilton’s pole as the 2012 Italian Grand Prix looks set to see the resurgence of McLaren continue. This time it was Lewis Hamilton who dominated from the lights – only briefly losing the lead during a pit stop – after a clean start saw him put clear air between the McLaren and a fired-up Massa who managed to wedge his Ferrari between Hamilton and Button before the first corner.