Autocade is an international car cyclopædia that’s geographically unbiased, carefully edited for enthusiasts and media who want a quick, accurate reference. There is a greater emphasis on models produced after 1970.
Inside Autocade
Land Rover Freelander (L359). 2006–14 (prod. n/a). 5-door SUV. F/F, F/A, 1999 cm³ petrol, 2179 cm³ diesel (I4 DOHC), 3196 cm³ (I6 DOHC). Second-generation Freelander on a Ford platform, related to Volvo XC60. Five-door only. Very capable off-road, despite car platform origins, but on-road performance not as good as rivals’, not helped by weight. More body roll, but grip, braking and ride still good. Not as luxurious as other Land Rover products such as the Discovery. Available with Terrain Response and Hill Descent Control. Called LR2 for US market.
Manufacturing location: Halewood, Merseyside, England
Marque: Land Rover | Model: Land Rover Freelander | Predecessor: Land Rover Freelander (CB40) | Successor: Land Rover Discovery Sport
Chevrolet Firenza (HC). 1971–6 (prod. n/a; 100 Can Am). 2- and 4-door sedan, 3-door wagon, 2-door coupé. F/R, 1158, 1256, 2507 cm³ (I4 OHV), 4940 cm³ (V8 OHV). South African development of Vauxhall Viva (HC), with differences in badging and engine range. The 1·3 replaced the 1·2 in 1973, with the wagon deleted in 1974. Range featured a 2·5-litre four, but collectors cherish the 1973 Can Am V8, a homologation special with a Chevrolet Camaro (1970–81) 302 small-block, built to compete in South African racing and a rival to the Ford Capri Perana, costing R5,800 at a time when the next top Firenza was R2,700.
Manufacturing location: Port Elizabeth, South Africa
Marque: Chevrolet | Predecessor: Opel Kadett B | Successors: Chevrolet 1300, 1900, Chevrolet Chevair
Ford Expedition (U222). 2003–6 (prod. n/a). 5-door SUV. F/R, F/A, 4601, 5408 cm³ (V8 OHC). Second-generation Expedition saw four-wheel, long-travel independent suspension. Independent rear suspension (IRS) introduced, with no penalty in towing capability. Roomy, thought-out interior with third row of seats folding flat, but some low-quality plastics visible. Good handling, though not the best ride, and poor fuel economy.
Manufacturing location: Wayne, Michigan, USA
Marque: Ford | Model: Ford Expedition | Predecessor: Ford Expedition (UN93) | Successor: Ford Expedition (U324)
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