Vw Rabbit Jetta 2.5 (2005+) Radiator Nissens New + 1 Year Warranty 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.

2009 Chrysler 300C SRT8, an AutoWeek Drivers Log

EXECUTIVE EDITOR WES RAYNAL: This car is an old-school hoot with its rear drive and big honkin' V8. The 425-hp figure is magical. That was the power output of the mighty 426 Hemi through the 1960s and '70s.

McLaren shows off its MP4-12C GT3 racer

McLaren GT, comprised of a partnership between the British company and CRS Racing, has unveiled its new GT3 race car based on the forthcoming MP4-12C sports car. This is the first McLaren built for FIA GT racing since the F1 GTR took to the track before production ended in 1997. "McLaren has racing in its blood, and it was a natural step to take our MP4-12C road car and turn it into the most reliable, efficient and easy-to-drive GT3 car," said Martin Whitmarsh, the McLaren Group's chief executive officer.