Pictures From Watkins Glen International Glen IMSA Weekend - June 2023

 Here's a few pictures of the racing action June 22- 25, 2023 at Watkins Glen International. Included in the competition were the Mazda MX-5 Cup, Porsche Carrera Cup, Lamborghini Super Trofeo and my favorite, the IMSA Pilot Challenge featuring Grand Sport and Touring cars.  Since my car is an Elantra N, I love seeing 'my car' on the race track.  

So here you go:        From the Michelin Pilot Challenge 120

                                     From The IMSA GT Daytona and GT Daytona Pro Classes

                                              From The Lamborghini Super Trofeo Races

                                                      From the Mazda MX-5 Races

                                    One of my favorite cars- the C8 Corvette

And to see some of the GTP, LMP 2 and LMP3 cars see my previous blog post.  This is just a sample of the hundreds of photos I took that weekend.  

Brought to you by Paul Ziegler, Publisher Carcamerastory.com   Follow on Instagram wownowpics

And The Winner Is Sahlen's Six Hours of the Glen

If you left Watkins Glen International last Sunday thinking the No. 6 JDC Miller Motorsport Porsche driven by Mathieu Jaminet and Nick Tandy won, you found out later the BMW No 25 of BMW M Team RLL actually won. The Porshe was disqualified in the post race inspection for having a skid plate thickness less than the minimum. This makes the win a first for BMW in the modern GTP era.

The competition is fierce in the GTP class as all four manufactures Porsche, BMW, Cadillac and Acura have won in this season's first 5 races. It doesn't get better than this.

I spent Friday, Saturday and Sunday photographing the nonstop competition that included the Mazda MX-5 Cup, Porsche Carrera Cup, Lamborghini Super Trofeo, Watkins Glen 120- IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge and the Sahlen's Six Hours of the Glen- IMSA Weathertech Sportscar Championship.  That's a lot of racing!  

The weekend was punctuated with ocassional showers, cool breezes and intermittent sun with some high humidity. A typical Upstate New York June weekend. At least the smoke from the fires in Canada had blown in another direction, or it stayed aloft.  Two weeks previous saw practice canceled for the HSR Classic races due to smoke. That's a first.

So now you that know who won, I'm going to post several pictures showing what it was like to be there. 

If you want to know all the results, click on this link from Autosport:

Click Here

And now for some pictures:

Opening Ceremony

Not the winner

Not the winner

Yes- The Winner!  

                                                         1st Turn, First Lap

                                            Afew more sights from the competition.

                                             Not a good day for the No 80 AO Racing Porsche

                                     

                        This is the first of a couple of posts covering the weekend of racing.

Brought to you by Paul Ziegler, Publisher  Carcamerastory.com  Follow on Instagram @wownowpics

                                   

On The Road Again- Quick Takes

 I'll be traveling to cooler climates this week so before I leave I wanted to post a few pictures of interest to Hyundai performance car fans.  They include the new refresh of the Elantra N, my Ceramic White N parked next to a fellow Tampa Bay Cafe' Racers Porsche and a teaser view of Zephyr Designz concept Elantra N.  

Here's your eye candy for the day:

The refreshed 2024 Elantra N that will be on sale later this year. No details yet on engine or performance figures. Possibly just a cosmetic refresh.  The '23 version is on top.  What do you think?

 

Then there's a side by side comparison of my 2022 Elantra N and my friend's 2023 Porsche. I'll take one of each!

And finally, Zephyr Designz concept Elantra N.  I want one!  Killer car for sure:

And with that, here's my two Elantra N's on the launch pad (my driveway).  Roll On!

Thanks for visiting my site. Stay tuned for racing pictures from Watkins Glen coming in June. I'll be at the Vintage Classic and the TCR/ IMSA races next month.  Will have full coverage including the Hyundai factory team cars and race results.

Brought to you by Paul Ziegler, Publisher, Carcamerastory.com and author of "Echoes From The Glen"

Follow on Instagram @wownowpics

Oil Analysis For Your Elantra N

 Recently I've been searching the web for articles on proper fuels and oil for use in turbocharged, direct injection engines used in the Hyundai Elantra N.  ( This applies to anyone with a Kona N or Veloster N as well.) 

This is a Shop Pack of six test samples.

Our engines are very powerful and efficient considering they produce almost 300 HP in stock form from a 2.0 liter engine. Part of that is the result of turbocharging as well as having direct fuel injection. With the benefits of power and fuel efficiency come some demands on making sure the oil we use is up to the task and owners need to be sure they are using the best fuel available.

The best fuel available does not mean the highest octane, rather it means keeping Top Tier fuel in the tank at all times. Top Tier refers to the quality/ aka additive package the suppliers use that helps keep the fuel system including fuel injectors, pistons and cylinders as clean as possible. Regardless, you still should be using 91 or higher octane.

For this post, I'm illustrating what it takes to do an oil analysis for your car. The company I chose is SPEEDiagnostix. The reason I'm trusting them with my oil analysis is the guy that founded the company, Lake Speed Jr.. He is one of the world's foremost Tribologists ( the study of friction, wear and lubrication) and has years of experience working with top NASCAR teams, including Joe Gibbs racing.  Some of you may remember the NASCAR driver, Lake Speed from the '80's, well Lake Speed Jr. is his son and he obviously grew up around fast cars.  I urge you to check out several YouTube videos by Lake about the science behind engine performance.  You will learn a lot!

                                                         Ready To Send My Samples

The cars I am having tested are my two Elantra N's.  The '23 model with the six speed and my '22 Elantra N with a DCT.  The six speed is still running factory oil as it only has 2800 miles on it and the DCT has about 6800 miles. I changed out the factory oil at 3200 miles and am now running Amsoil Signature series 0-30 Synthetic.  It will be very interesting to see what the analysis shows.

The other thing I like about SPEEDiagnostix is they use the same type tests as used by Formula 1 teams. This is explained on the company website and is worth reading. 

Pulling a sample is easy- I bought a fluid transfer pump at Harbor Freight for only $6 bucks and I've included a picture. The oil is accessed through the dip stick tube. The only downside is I consider this a one time use.  The reason is contamination of the samples. I bought two pumps; one for each car and I don't know if I'll use the pumps for a second test in the future. It all depends on the process to clean out the pump apparatus.  SPEEDiagnostix sells a less complictaed pump that looks easy to clean.

There is a second option and that is taking a sample when you remove the drain plug to change the oil. That is more work and could be messy, but it certainly works.

I have put a link below to check out some videos by Lake and his company.  If you have the time check them out and you might want to have an analysis done on your oil.  And if you want to save some money, You can get a shop pack good for 6 tests for around $249.00 It just might save you an engine rebuild, or at least alert you to a potential problem before it gets serious.

Why Oil Analysis?

 I hope you enjoyed this 'educational' post.  Stay tuned for some action photos from Watkins Glen as I will be traveling to New York in June for the HSR Classic followed by the IMSA Six Hour of the Glen and TCR Series cars, including the Hyundai N racing team cars.

Brought to you by Paul Ziegler, Publisher   Carcamerastory.com

Author, "Echoes From The Glen"

Follow on Instagram @wownowpics

Hyundai Elantra N - The Perfect Performance Family Sedan?

 I've been away for a few weeks so finally have a chance to put up a quick post inspired by my two grandkids. I have a 4 year old and a 9 year old I'm watching for the week- both boys.  You can imagine the mischief they get into. But when it comes to taking a ride in the car, they want to take the race car- my Elantra N.

I like these cars so much I bought a second one.  Here's my 2022 with the DCT:

And here's my six speed filling up with Shell 93. Both cars have aftermarket wheels that I think make them look all that more special.  Either flavor, automatic or stick,  both give you a fantastic driving experience. 

                                    

But don't take my word for it. Here's a new video that was just posted by Everyday Driver and it tells the story better than I could.  I agree with their impression of the cars; a very good and balanced review.  And regarding the reference to taking kids in the back seat- I haven't given them the puke test yet.  Don't want to mess up the alcantara!

                           Click Here For Video:

                                       (1) Hyundai Elantra N - Constant Applause - Test Drive | Everyday Driver - YouTube

                        For now, it is back to the beach here in Florida to watch the future car enthusiasts.

                        Watch this blog for new updates soon.  Hope you enjoyed the video.

Brought to you by Paul Ziegler, Publisher Carcamerastory.com and author of "Echoes From The Glen"

                                             Follow on Instagram @wownowpics

Elantra N Automatic DCT or 6 Speed Manual?

 This is a topic that comes up often on the Elantra N Forum, so I put this post together for anyone thinking of buying an 'N' but are not sure which way to go-  8 Speed DCT or Six Speed Manual?

I've owned the DCT version since August and the six speed for three weeks. I had the opportunity to take the six speed for a spirited drive this week over a 150 mile run on some back roads that have made up for the short time of ownership, giving me a good basis for comparison. Here's what I found.

Sound:  The forums have said the manual is louder, I disagree. There is no big differece in how loud they are, but there is a difference in the way the sound comes out.  The DCT has a satisfying change in tone with each gear change when accelerating from a stop and you don't have to be hammering the throttle. It does this even in normal mode and the tone change is more pronounced in sport mode. I really like it as it sounds a lot like a Porsche with a DCT.  (I owned a 2014 Cayman with the 6 cylinder)

This exhaust system is magic as I have not heard a better sounding 4 cylinder turbo motor.

With the six speed you have full control on how you make your sound by keeping it in gear to your liking. You can wind it up or short shift it. You can change the modes from Normal to Sport to 'N' and you get different effects. It really is the best of all worlds involving engine and exhaust sounds.

Strangely, the DCT seems to be a little more deep throated and a little meaner sounding, but the manual is more versatile for altering the sounds.  Hard to say which is better- they are just different.

Handling - This is subjective because it depends on your purpose at the time. Are you on a back road with lots of curves, are you on a track, or are you crusing in traffic?  There are advantages to both depending on the situation.  The DCT is definately quicker and it can be controlled by the paddles or gearshift giving lots of options.  For sheer fun, the manual has the advantage though. Each car handles extremely well, they should as that's what they were designed to do but the you can feel a slight difference between them because of the weight difference. Not a lot- around 120 pounds but I would give the edge to the manual because it is lighter. But that's where Hyundai makes it harder to pick because the DCT has a little more horsepower estimated by all accounts to be about 15  ponies. On an overall scale, they are very, very close in the handling department.

Fun Factor - Again this is subjective. If you like shifting and don't mind being in traffic, the manual is the choice. With the Rev Match system, even a novice can look good in the 6 speed. It is a very easy shifter to operate and although not as rigid as a Honda Si shifter in some ways it is easier. Yes easier than a Honda! Many of you might disagree but I drove the new gen Honda Civic Si for a year and on my 50 mile torture test in traffic on Rt 19 in Florida I feel more rested and relaxed shifting the Hyundai. This route is one I take twice a month to visit my daughter and I can make this claim!

The Honda's shifter is wonderful but it feels like the difference you feel wearing a shirt and tie all day vs wearing a comfortable tee shirt with the Hyundai. The Hyndai shifter is a little more loosey goosey, but in a good way.  The shifts are still crisp and precise, just not as crisp.  The clutch might be the difference, or the fact you have a 2.0 liter vs a 1.5 liter engine.  The clutch is just a bit easier to operate in the Hyundai.

But back to comparing the two Hyundais.   The DCT is easy as it gets and it make the engine sounds that you love as you accelerate up through the gears. Yes, you can have a ton of fun with the DCT, and it is super quick.  Which is better?  Hard to say and a personal choice. Overall most people will probably like the DCT is my guess.

Conclusion - If you are really on the fence, the safe bet is the DCT. Plenty of fun and you will not be dissapointed. You also get a sunroof and the NGS button with 10 extra horsepower and remote start. For $1,500. it is well worth it.  If you are used to driving a manual and want the maximum driver engagement the manual would be for you.  we are lucky that Hyundai gives you a choice and moreover, we are lucky Hyundai is bringing amazing performance at an affordable price. I've owned performance cars costing way more than this and they are not really that much better, if better!

I hope this has helped anyone seriously thinking of buying an Elantra N.   Here's some pictures of my two N's - the best two cars I've ever owned for the price.

                                         Cyber Gray Elantra N With Six Speed Manual

                                            Ceramic White Elantra N With 8 Speed DCT

           Thanks for visiting the Carcamerastory blog brought to you by Paul Ziegler, Publisher

               Author of "Echoes From The Glen".  Follow on Instagram @wownowpics

Elantra N Times Two

 I finally did it- I bought another Elantra N! I posted this news on Reddit and I got several comments asking why?

Here's the cars and you will see the why behind it below the picture.

Why buy two Hyundai Elantras?  Well for the past 2 years I have been trying out a number of new cars. I took the money I got selling an Alfa Romeo Quadrifoglio and used it to buy two cars. Those were a Honda Accord Sport and an 11th Gen Honda Civic Si. Those were fine cars but the Accord was a big family sedan and the Civic was perfect for 90% of my driving needs but was lacking in power.  After several months of ownership of both Hondas my attention focused on the rave reviews on YouTube of the Hyundai Elantra N.

The Civic was the first to go, trading it for the Ceramic White Elantra N shown above. The Civic being a little too quiet (no exhaust sound) and a little uderpowered  (50 more HP would be welcome),  the Elantra N seemed to check all the boxes for me.  Boy, did it ever. That feeling came back where, on a Saturday morning I couldn't wait to get up and take it for a ride. The added power combined with the exhaust note had me hooked on the car. I also fell in love with the DCT (automatic transmission) that has a brain of its own, shifting exactly when it should and doing it faster than any human, and it even blips the throttle to rev match on the downshifts.

Then my story gets more complicated.  Having sacrificed my 6 speed manual Civic for the automatic 'N' car, I thought maybe it was time to get another Civic Si so I would still have a manual car to drive. You guessed it- I traded the Accord for a second Civic Si!  I had done so well with resale value on my first Civic and the used car market was still holding up I figured it was a good time to trade the Accord. It was August '22 and the used car market began to decline in July so timing was good to make a trade. My second Civic Si was a beautiful Aegean Blue and a real good looking ride. 

But then I watched a YouTube video of a manual Performance Blue Elantra N by Joe Raiti of Raiti's Rides. Of course it was one with a manual and the smile on Joe's face when he got 'On Throttle' with it had me thinking.  If I could get a good price for my Civic Si, it would not cost that much more to get into an Elantra N with the manual.  So my search began to find a Cyber Gray 'N' with the manual. It took about 6 weeks but I located 3 in Florida and called all three dealers.

Making a deal on the phone was not as easy as I thought as the dealers all wanted me to come in to talk. I had success with Rick Case Hyundai in Plantation, FL in making a great deal on the phone. I worked out my deal with Ryan Marcus who I highly recommend. He quickly put the numbers together after I told him what I was willing to do and if there was something I didn't want, like certain add ons he was able to get that taken care of. In the end, I got a great deal and they gained a satisfied customer. One thing that stood out with Ryan- he was either right there to answer my call or he would text or call back quickly if he was with another customer.  I would have traded my Civic in but with the market still strong for Civic Si's I sold it for more on Auto Trader, enough more so it more than covered my sales tax credit if I had traded it in.

So on January 3rd I flew to Ft. Lauderdale where Ryan had an Uber waiting to bring me to the dealership. Ryan had everthing ready with the beautiful new 'N' sitting out front. I was introduced to Andrii in finance who handled all the paperwork (Cash deal) and in less than an hour I was on my way back to St. Petersburg with what I truly think is a keeper. There will be fewer and fewer manual cars available in the future, let alone ICE manual cars. The Elantra N I predict will become one of the last, best performance cars available to buy.  

So if you think I'm crazy, maybe I am but I'm certainly happy with owning two of these fabulous cars! 

I'll soon be doing a full review comparing the two cars because I know a lot of you are torn which one to buy, the DCT or the Manual.  I think you will find that post very interesting.  In the meantime I'm staying around home for a couple of weeks after having driven 1800 miles between New York and Florida since New Years day.    Happy New Year everyone.

Brought to you by: Paul Ziegler, Publisher carcamerastory.com   Follow on Instagram @wownowpics