Dorman Ignition Distributor Drive Gear on 2040-parts.com

2012 Ford Focus: A different kind of test drive for consumers

Ford is rolling out a fairly simple idea in August to get consumers interested in the 2012 Ford Focus--drive it. But instead of the usual dealership experience, where potential buyers are often accompanied by a sales person, Ford is now pitching the new Focus to customers on more neutral turf, which the aim of highlighting the technological and handling prowess of the car. The program is being billed as “Start more than a car.

2014 Nissan Versa priced at $12,780

The 2014 Nissan Versa with a five-speed manual transmission -- at dealerships today -- will set you back $12,780, including $790 for destination. Stepping down to a four-cog automatic will cost a grand more. For that price -- the lowest in America, by the way, more on that later -- buyers get a 1.6-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine, available air conditioning, six-way adjustable driver's seat, and a radio with an auxiliary input.

Concept Car of the Week: Matra Laser (1971)

Founded in 1937, French company Matra began its activities by manufacturing military equipment such as aeronautics and weaponry. In the mid ‘60s, under Jean-Luc Lagardere's ambitious direction, the company bought Automobiles Rene Bonnet to expand its portfolio with street and racing cars. The first model solely developed by Matra was the bonkers, but brilliant, 1967 M530, which took its name from the company's surface-to-air missile the R530.