In our last installment, we took our Volvo 850 to the track to gather base data that would determine our direction in this series. We lapped the big 850 around our custom-built “Little Donington” course at the B.C. Driving Centre, operated by Drivers Unlimited. This use of a closed course and the ability to set up our own testing…

We have covered a great many tactics to make your car faster with out the need to increase power. We’ve looked at the benefits of lowered suspension, cutting down weight, chassis stiffening, properly bedding in brakes, limited-slip differentials and the use of proper performance tires. Well, we are now going to start linking some of these…

It’s hard to believe how something so adored and innovative can one day simply lose its awe-inspiring luster, only to fade out of existence—an all too common thing in today’s unforgiving, fad-induced society…

What is the first thing you think about when you see a Volvo 850 wagon? You’ll likely see a very safe, reliable wagon that makes for a useful family hauler to get the kids to school and soccer practice…

Last month we discussed the aerodynamic impacts of a rear diffuser on the back of a car. This month, let’s talk front splitters. If you are going to go to the trouble of building a flat under-pan (if your car doesn’t already come with one), you’re not going to want to forget the a front splitter. Unlike the rear diffuser, which doesn’t really work unless your car is sitting on the ground and has a proper flat-bottom, a front splitter is much more effective in everyday circumstances.

Aftermarket body kit companies mimic them and automakers place sporty looking replicas on the back of performance cars. They are diffusers, a curled piece of bodywork under the rear bumper used to give aerodynamic downforce to the rear wheels. But, do they work? To answer this question, first we have to learn the art of aerodynamics, and how a diffuser actually works.

Every year for the past five years, the Toronto Hyundai Club has organized an event for owners to come together to talk shop, mingle and check out what other like-minded individuals have done to their rides.

A how-to replace your car’s thermostat. Very informative…

Track days, while inherently fun, are rather costly, and you don’t get a whole lot of track time to master your ride or the track you are trying to conquer.

As regular readers may have gathered, I do not go into much detail about power-increasing modifications in these performance pieces. I am of the firm belief that power is the last facet of performance modification to be explored when looking to gain a faster time at a track day, or to give your ride a little more excitement. Therefore, I’ve concentrated on suspension, brake and chassis tuning to get the most out of what the factory has given you. However, this month, I will finally be diving into the engine, but it won’t be something that the majority of you may think. I’m talkin’ diesel power tuning!