This might not look like an Acura NSX (which is good, ‘cause it’s not), but for Dave, it’s even better (and I hope it is, since Dave sold his NSX to build this). What is it, you ask?
It is a 1994 Acura Integra GSR that has been converted into a mid-engined, rear wheel drive concoction via a transplanted 1997 Honda Prelude VTEC engine (and a ‘few’ other parts).
Designed to fly in stealth mode, both on the track and in the parking lot, Dave’s creation cost him only $10K, weighs only 2,700 lbs, and has an almost ideal 45/55 weight distribution. NSX it’s not, but who needs flashy, when you’ve got fast?
Though this artist’s message is lost on me, one of the exhibits at this year’s Moscow Art Biennale is a Maserati Quattroporte that’s been covered in 1,763 lbs. of shattered glass (apparently, it’s a show about perception). Though I’m sure it’s a sight to behold, couldn’t he have gotten a similar response by covering something less valuable in glass, say, a Honda Element, and given me the Maserati instead? I just hope he used quick release glue.
When I first saw the cover of this book, I though it was a well executed and well Photoshoped joke. Strangely enough though, it’s an actual book, with actual advice for how to get it on in (and possibly on) a car. Insights include the obvious, like avoiding gearshifts and seatbelts, to the more heavily researched, like the best cars (Lincoln Town Car, Volvo V70), and the worst cars (Honda Insight, Ford GT). There are illustrations and advice for over 20 makes and models, from compacts and sedans to hybrids and SUVs, and there are even two included double-page gatefolds for taxicab eroticism and limousine service. If you’ve been looking to rev up your sex life, then maybe this glove-compartment-sized guide is just the ticket. Ladies and gentlemen, start your engines.
Today’s Movie Monday is a compilation of the top ten (as voted upon by a panel consisting of myself) Rube Goldberg machines ever created (and posted on YouTube). For those of you who don’t know, Rube Goldberg machines are “exceedingly complex devices that perform simple tasks in very indirect and convoluted ways”, and are an idea originally conceived by Rube Goldberg, a famous cartoonist. The only qualification for the list was that it had to use real objects, because a computerized Rube Goldberg machine is just plain cheating. Enjoy.
10. Tim Fort’s Kinetic Art – Though mostly a dominoes device, the sheer magnitude of this creation earned it a spot on the list.
9. Ramen Noodle Machine – Since Ramen Noodles are supposed to be an easy and quick meal, the idea of making it as complex as possible put this on the list.
8. Beer Pouring Machine – Who said beer drinking is only for the lazy?
8.5 (Honorable Mention). Beer Pouring Machine From Waiting – Good, but I just wish it were a little bit longer.
7. Office Place Contraption – I love all of the everyday objects used in this one.
6. Jackass 2 Alternate Ending – This one’s great because it used real people.
5. Mythbusters Machine – I love this show, and these guys put some great stuff into their machine.
4. Sticks And Stones – This one’s great because it only uses things that can be found in nature.
4.5 (Bonus). Sticks And Stones How To – A how to guide to the previous machine.
3. Alarm Clock – Not only does this machine wake you up, it also does your chores and cooks you breakfast. Can you ask for more than that?
2. Pitagora Suicchi – The best of a Japanese show about Rube Goldberg machines. Some of these are so unique.
And the number one Rube Goldberg machine of all time is…
1. Honda’s Cog Commercial – Honda spent a reported million dollars to get all of these parts from a Honda Accord to link together, and the results are amazing. Keep in mind, these are actual parts and no editing was used to make all of this work together.
So there you have it. A top ten to top all top tens. What did you think? Did you agree with my choices? Is there a machine you can’t believe I left out? I’d love to see some more great machines, so let me know.
