Monday
Jun152020
JUNE 17, 2020
Monday, June 15, 2020 at 09:23AM 
(Ford images)
Ford is bringing back the Mustang Mach 1 for 2021. Designed to bridge the gap between Mustang GT and Shelby® models, the all-new Mustang Mach 1 is set to become the most track-capable 5.0-liter Mustang ever, courtesy of a newly designed front end, plus Ford Performance parts from Mustang Shelby GT350 and Shelby GT500 models and an available Handling Package for greater at-limit handling. The Mach 1 is equipped with a specially calibrated 5.0-liter V8 engine that has (a projected) 480HP at 7,000 rpm and 420 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,600 rpm. Integrated into the Mach 1 engine are revised Shelby GT350 components, including the intake manifold, oil filter adapter and engine oil cooler, increasing engine oil cooling capability by 50 percent. The Mach 1 has a uniquely crafted front end for aerodynamic efficiency and a host of other Ford Performance parts. The Mach 1 comes standard with a Tremec™ 3160 6-speed manual transmission from the Shelby GT350. For the first time, Ford has outfitted the system with rev-matching, and the transmission is paired with the GT350 oil cooler system and Mustang GT’s twin-disc clutch and short-throw shifter. Drivers can also opt for an available 10-speed SelectShift™ automatic transmission with an upgraded torque converter and unique calibration that enables optimizing torque capability, shift character and overall enhanced performance. When? Don't hold your breath. Next spring.
Ford is bringing back the Mustang Mach 1 for 2021. Designed to bridge the gap between Mustang GT and Shelby® models, the all-new Mustang Mach 1 is set to become the most track-capable 5.0-liter Mustang ever, courtesy of a newly designed front end, plus Ford Performance parts from Mustang Shelby GT350 and Shelby GT500 models and an available Handling Package for greater at-limit handling. The Mach 1 is equipped with a specially calibrated 5.0-liter V8 engine that has (a projected) 480HP at 7,000 rpm and 420 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,600 rpm. Integrated into the Mach 1 engine are revised Shelby GT350 components, including the intake manifold, oil filter adapter and engine oil cooler, increasing engine oil cooling capability by 50 percent. The Mach 1 has a uniquely crafted front end for aerodynamic efficiency and a host of other Ford Performance parts. The Mach 1 comes standard with a Tremec™ 3160 6-speed manual transmission from the Shelby GT350. For the first time, Ford has outfitted the system with rev-matching, and the transmission is paired with the GT350 oil cooler system and Mustang GT’s twin-disc clutch and short-throw shifter. Drivers can also opt for an available 10-speed SelectShift™ automatic transmission with an upgraded torque converter and unique calibration that enables optimizing torque capability, shift character and overall enhanced performance. When? Don't hold your breath. Next spring.
(Petersen Automotive Museum)
Good news for L.A. auto enthusiasts: The Petersen Automotive Museum will reopen to the public on Friday, June 19, 2020, with a new schedule of 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday. The museum will follow the health and safety guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), State of California and County of Los Angeles to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. Staff members and visitors are required to wear protective face coverings, and single-use face masks will be provided to those who do not have one. Social distancing guidelines of at least six feet will be enforced with designated entrance and exit signs. There will be designated navigation paths for each exhibit. The museum will also increase the frequency of routine cleaning, while offering hand sanitizing stations on each floor. Exhibits currently on display at the Petersen include “Hollywood Dream Machines: Vehicles of Science Fiction and Fantasy,” “Reclaimed Rust: The James Hetfield Collection” and “Building an Electric Future” presented by Volkswagen. (Interactive exhibits, including the Forza racing simulators and Discovery Center, will remain closed.) Tickets must be purchased ahead of time on the museum website. For more information about the Petersen Automotive Museum and its exhibits, visit Petersen.org.
Good news for L.A. auto enthusiasts: The Petersen Automotive Museum will reopen to the public on Friday, June 19, 2020, with a new schedule of 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday. The museum will follow the health and safety guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), State of California and County of Los Angeles to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. Staff members and visitors are required to wear protective face coverings, and single-use face masks will be provided to those who do not have one. Social distancing guidelines of at least six feet will be enforced with designated entrance and exit signs. There will be designated navigation paths for each exhibit. The museum will also increase the frequency of routine cleaning, while offering hand sanitizing stations on each floor. Exhibits currently on display at the Petersen include “Hollywood Dream Machines: Vehicles of Science Fiction and Fantasy,” “Reclaimed Rust: The James Hetfield Collection” and “Building an Electric Future” presented by Volkswagen. (Interactive exhibits, including the Forza racing simulators and Discovery Center, will remain closed.) Tickets must be purchased ahead of time on the museum website. For more information about the Petersen Automotive Museum and its exhibits, visit Petersen.org.
(Porsche images)
Porsche has announced two new model variants to the Cayenne lineup: the 2021 Cayenne GTS and Cayenne GTS Coupe. The big news? The return of a V8 engine to the GTS. The Porsche-developed 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, which is shared with the Panamera GTS, generates 453HP (338 kW) and 457 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a standard eight-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmission and Porsche Traction Management all-wheel drive, the new models are capable of reaching 60 mph in 4.5 seconds or 4.2 seconds using Performance Start, which is included in the optional Sport Chrono Package (standard on Coupe). Those acceleration times mark an improvement of 0.4 seconds and 0.6 seconds respectively as compared to the 0-60 mph sprint of the preceding Cayenne GTS. Both models have a top track speed of 168 mph.
Sport Exhaust is also included as standard equipment with all Cayenne GTS models. The specially configured system features tail pipes on the outer edges of the rear bumper. Customers opting for the Cayenne Coupe model may also choose a new, center exhaust system with oval shaped tips. The new exhaust – which is newly included in and only available with the optional Lightweight Sport Package – is even louder than the Sport Exhaust system offered on the GTS models.
Porsche employs its usual array of high-quality materials such as Alcantara® on the headliner, seat centers, center console armrests and doors, as well as black brushed aluminium in the interior of the Cayenne GTS models. Standard eight-way sport seats exclusively reserved for the new GTS models offer increased height in their side bolsters. GTS logos can be found on the front doors, door sills, tachometer and head rests.
Since Porsche is now officially an SUV company that occasionally dabbles in sports cars, its engineers need something to do, which is why the Cayenne GTS models receive revised Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) dampers, which, in combination with the standard three-chamber Air Suspension, lower the chassis by 30 mm as compared to the Cayenne S. Other stuff? The standard Sport Design package features numerous accents in black. The new Cayenne GTS models are equipped as standard with 21-inch RS Spyder Design wheels in satin black. The LED headlights with Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS) and the continuous LED taillights are also tinted. The front air intakes, side window trim, tailpipes of the sport exhaust system and the rear Porsche logo and model designation are all finished in black. How much? Bring loads of ca$h-ola. The 2021 Cayenne GTS starts at $107,300. The 2021 Cayenne GTS Coupe starts $110,500. Both prices exclude a $1,350 delivery, processing and handling fee. The new 2021 Porsche Cayenne GTS and Cayenne GTS Coupe models are expected to begin arriving here in the fall of 2020.
Porsche has announced two new model variants to the Cayenne lineup: the 2021 Cayenne GTS and Cayenne GTS Coupe. The big news? The return of a V8 engine to the GTS. The Porsche-developed 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, which is shared with the Panamera GTS, generates 453HP (338 kW) and 457 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a standard eight-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmission and Porsche Traction Management all-wheel drive, the new models are capable of reaching 60 mph in 4.5 seconds or 4.2 seconds using Performance Start, which is included in the optional Sport Chrono Package (standard on Coupe). Those acceleration times mark an improvement of 0.4 seconds and 0.6 seconds respectively as compared to the 0-60 mph sprint of the preceding Cayenne GTS. Both models have a top track speed of 168 mph.
Sport Exhaust is also included as standard equipment with all Cayenne GTS models. The specially configured system features tail pipes on the outer edges of the rear bumper. Customers opting for the Cayenne Coupe model may also choose a new, center exhaust system with oval shaped tips. The new exhaust – which is newly included in and only available with the optional Lightweight Sport Package – is even louder than the Sport Exhaust system offered on the GTS models. Porsche employs its usual array of high-quality materials such as Alcantara® on the headliner, seat centers, center console armrests and doors, as well as black brushed aluminium in the interior of the Cayenne GTS models. Standard eight-way sport seats exclusively reserved for the new GTS models offer increased height in their side bolsters. GTS logos can be found on the front doors, door sills, tachometer and head rests. Since Porsche is now officially an SUV company that occasionally dabbles in sports cars, its engineers need something to do, which is why the Cayenne GTS models receive revised Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) dampers, which, in combination with the standard three-chamber Air Suspension, lower the chassis by 30 mm as compared to the Cayenne S. Other stuff? The standard Sport Design package features numerous accents in black. The new Cayenne GTS models are equipped as standard with 21-inch RS Spyder Design wheels in satin black. The LED headlights with Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS) and the continuous LED taillights are also tinted. The front air intakes, side window trim, tailpipes of the sport exhaust system and the rear Porsche logo and model designation are all finished in black. How much? Bring loads of ca$h-ola. The 2021 Cayenne GTS starts at $107,300. The 2021 Cayenne GTS Coupe starts $110,500. Both prices exclude a $1,350 delivery, processing and handling fee. The new 2021 Porsche Cayenne GTS and Cayenne GTS Coupe models are expected to begin arriving here in the fall of 2020.
(Chevrolet)Horsepower Alert: Chevrolet Performance has announced the all-new LS427/570 crate engine intended exclusively for use in competition vehicles. This is an enhanced version of the production-based LS7 7.0L engine that offers more horsepower, more torque and, thanks to a simpler wet-sump oiling system, easier installation. A new, high-lift camshaft developed specifically for this engine helps produce a GM-estimated 570HP and 540 lb-ft of torque — increases of 65 horsepower and 70 lb-ft over the regular-production engine — while the new wet-sump oiling system eliminates the need for the installer to incorporate a separate oil tank, oil lines and other ancillary components to support the production LS7’s dry-sump system. Compared to the production LS7 crate engine assembly, the LS427/570 features an F-body aluminum oil pan and a specific wet-sump oil pump. Additional engine highlights include:
- Unique high-lift hydraulic roller camshaft with 0.591-inch intake/0.590-inch exhaust lift; 227-degree intake/242-degree exhaust duration; and a lobe separation angle of 116 degrees
- Unique high-rate valve springs
- Camaro fifth-generation Z/28 exhaust manifolds
- Low-profile LS7 EFI intake manifold with fuel rails, injectors and throttle body installed
- Robust LS7 rotating assembly featuring a forged steel crankshaft and titanium connecting rods
- CNC-ported cylinder heads featuring 2.20-inch titanium intake valves and 1.61-inch sodium-filled exhaust valves
- Fourteen-inch Camaro Z/28 168-tooth manual transmission flywheel
- Must be used with LS427/570 Engine Controller P/N 19420000 (sold separately)
- Chevrolet Performance recommends Mobil 1 15W50 fully synthetic motor oil to be used with the engine
The new LS427/570 is available for immediate ordering through Chevrolet Performance dealers and retailers. Go to www.chevrolet.com/performance to locate a dealer.
(BMW)
BMW has unveiled the updated 2021 M5 and M5 Competition Sedans. The four-door M sedans offer "supercar performance with everyday usability for up to five passengers," according to BMW PR minions. The 2021 BMW M5 is powered by the S63 4.4-liter TwinPower turbocharged V8 engine producing 600HP @ 6,000 rpm and 553 ft-lbs. of torque from 1,800 – 5,690 rpm. The M5 Sedan accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 3.2 seconds and reaches an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph (190 mph when equipped with the optional M Driver’s Package). The M5 Competition Sedan has 617HP @ 6,000 rpm and offers a 170 rpm-wider torque band, 553 ft-lbs. @ 1,800 – 5,860 rpm. The Competition model accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 3.1 seconds and reaches an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph (190 mph when equipped with the optional M Driver’s Package). The engine features two turbochargers, cross-bank exhaust manifolds, direct injection and upgraded cooling and oil supply. The cross-bank exhaust manifolds improve turbocharger and throttle response by reducing the distance the exhaust gases need to flow to reach the turbochargers. Water-to-air intercooling helps reduce the temperature of the incoming air for improved power. The advanced cooling system is composed of two separate water circuits, one for the intercoolers and one for the engine and turbochargers. An electric cooling pump ensures that the turbochargers receive sufficient coolant flow even after the engine has been turned off. An additional engine oil cooler and transmission oil cooler ensure the M5 is capable of standing up to the higher thermal demands of track driving. The oil supply system features a secondary front chamber in the oil pan which is accessed by a map-controlled oil suction pump to insure effective oil supply during extreme lateral and longitudinal forces. Other stuff? New front and rear styling; a larger 12.3-inch touch screen central information display; wireless Android Auto compatibility in addition to Apple CarPlay; cloud-based BMW Maps navigation; a new TRACK mode for M5 Competition; new bicolor Full Merino Leather in Black and Midrand Beige with Alcantara inserts (for M5 Competition); new shock absorbers and fully recalibrated damper control system for M5 Competition; high-gloss black or red finish for standard compound brake calipers; new Brands Hatch Grey and Motegi Red Metallic paint colors plus new Individual paint colors Tanzanite Blue II metallic, Aventurine Red II metallic and the matte finish Frozen Bluestone metallic. How much? Bring ca$h: $103,500 for the M5 Sedan and $111,100 for the M5 Competition Sedan. (Pricing does not include $995 Destination.)
BMW has unveiled the updated 2021 M5 and M5 Competition Sedans. The four-door M sedans offer "supercar performance with everyday usability for up to five passengers," according to BMW PR minions. The 2021 BMW M5 is powered by the S63 4.4-liter TwinPower turbocharged V8 engine producing 600HP @ 6,000 rpm and 553 ft-lbs. of torque from 1,800 – 5,690 rpm. The M5 Sedan accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 3.2 seconds and reaches an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph (190 mph when equipped with the optional M Driver’s Package). The M5 Competition Sedan has 617HP @ 6,000 rpm and offers a 170 rpm-wider torque band, 553 ft-lbs. @ 1,800 – 5,860 rpm. The Competition model accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 3.1 seconds and reaches an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph (190 mph when equipped with the optional M Driver’s Package). The engine features two turbochargers, cross-bank exhaust manifolds, direct injection and upgraded cooling and oil supply. The cross-bank exhaust manifolds improve turbocharger and throttle response by reducing the distance the exhaust gases need to flow to reach the turbochargers. Water-to-air intercooling helps reduce the temperature of the incoming air for improved power. The advanced cooling system is composed of two separate water circuits, one for the intercoolers and one for the engine and turbochargers. An electric cooling pump ensures that the turbochargers receive sufficient coolant flow even after the engine has been turned off. An additional engine oil cooler and transmission oil cooler ensure the M5 is capable of standing up to the higher thermal demands of track driving. The oil supply system features a secondary front chamber in the oil pan which is accessed by a map-controlled oil suction pump to insure effective oil supply during extreme lateral and longitudinal forces. Other stuff? New front and rear styling; a larger 12.3-inch touch screen central information display; wireless Android Auto compatibility in addition to Apple CarPlay; cloud-based BMW Maps navigation; a new TRACK mode for M5 Competition; new bicolor Full Merino Leather in Black and Midrand Beige with Alcantara inserts (for M5 Competition); new shock absorbers and fully recalibrated damper control system for M5 Competition; high-gloss black or red finish for standard compound brake calipers; new Brands Hatch Grey and Motegi Red Metallic paint colors plus new Individual paint colors Tanzanite Blue II metallic, Aventurine Red II metallic and the matte finish Frozen Bluestone metallic. How much? Bring ca$h: $103,500 for the M5 Sedan and $111,100 for the M5 Competition Sedan. (Pricing does not include $995 Destination.)
(Lamborghini)
Editor-in-Chief's Note: When a plain-old Lamborghini Urus just won't do, Automobili Lamborghini is now offering the Urus in a new design edition, called Pearl Capsule, "the start of new adventures in color and features for the Lamborghini Super SUV," according to Lamborghini's PR minions. This first exclusive customization option for the Urus is created by Lamborghini’s Centro Stile design department. The two-tone exterior embraces Lamborghini’s traditional high-gloss four-layer pearl colors of Giallo Inti, Arancio Borealis and Verde Mantis in combination with high gloss black roof, rear diffuser, spoiler lip and other details. The matte grey tailpipes are complemented by 23” high-gloss black rims (yes, you read that correctly -WG) with body color accent. The interior trim is based on a unique two-tone color combination, featuring the hexagon-shaped upholstery stitching - Q-Citura - with logo embroidery on the seat, plus carbon fiber and black anodized aluminum details. Available exclusively on the Pearl Capsule, the optional fully-electric seat features perforated Alcantara for enhanced comfort. The Urus Pearl Capsule is available on the 2021 Urus models, alongside an extended range of colors and features. More than 8,300 Urus have been delivered worldwide since its launch, with the most popular color options being several hues of greys, closely followed by Lamborghini’s trademark yellow. Alongside enhanced standard and optional equipment, Lamborghini Urus owners will now be able to choose from an updated standard color palette and a continuously-expanding range of special colors, as well as further interior customization offered by Lamborghini Ad Personam. The 2021 Lamborghini Urus is available now in the U.S. How much? It starts at $218,000.00. -PMD
Editor-in-Chief's Note: When a plain-old Lamborghini Urus just won't do, Automobili Lamborghini is now offering the Urus in a new design edition, called Pearl Capsule, "the start of new adventures in color and features for the Lamborghini Super SUV," according to Lamborghini's PR minions. This first exclusive customization option for the Urus is created by Lamborghini’s Centro Stile design department. The two-tone exterior embraces Lamborghini’s traditional high-gloss four-layer pearl colors of Giallo Inti, Arancio Borealis and Verde Mantis in combination with high gloss black roof, rear diffuser, spoiler lip and other details. The matte grey tailpipes are complemented by 23” high-gloss black rims (yes, you read that correctly -WG) with body color accent. The interior trim is based on a unique two-tone color combination, featuring the hexagon-shaped upholstery stitching - Q-Citura - with logo embroidery on the seat, plus carbon fiber and black anodized aluminum details. Available exclusively on the Pearl Capsule, the optional fully-electric seat features perforated Alcantara for enhanced comfort. The Urus Pearl Capsule is available on the 2021 Urus models, alongside an extended range of colors and features. More than 8,300 Urus have been delivered worldwide since its launch, with the most popular color options being several hues of greys, closely followed by Lamborghini’s trademark yellow. Alongside enhanced standard and optional equipment, Lamborghini Urus owners will now be able to choose from an updated standard color palette and a continuously-expanding range of special colors, as well as further interior customization offered by Lamborghini Ad Personam. The 2021 Lamborghini Urus is available now in the U.S. How much? It starts at $218,000.00. -PMD
(Mercedes-Benz images)
The Mercedes-AMG E63 S Sedan and Wagon get extensive updates for the 2021 model year. In its latest generation, high-performance vehicle dynamics are combined with considerably more comfort and supplemented by an extensive design update. The central air cooling inlet in the completely restyled front section is significantly larger than before and now also bears the distinctive AMG-specific radiator grille, featuring vertical slats and a larger central star. Together with the flatter, all-LED multibeam headlamps, aggressive wheel arches flared further outwards and the rounded-fit hood with twin power domes, a completely new, considerably more dynamic appearance is created. The reshaped front bumper has three large, functional air intakes and a front splitter enhances the overall proportions and also significantly reduces lift at the front axle. The interior is also thoroughly enhanced with the Widescreen Cockpit, the new AMG Performance steering wheel and the MBUX infotainment system with AMG-specific functions and displays. The Handcrafted AMG 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine in the E63 S is coupled to an AMG Speedshift MCT 9-speed transmission and delivers 603HP with a maximum torque of 627 lb-ft. available across a wide engine speed range from 2,500 to 4,500 rpm. The E63 S Sedan goes 0 to 60 mph in an estimated 3.3 seconds. The 0-60 mph time for the Wagon is an estimated 3.4 seconds. The E63 S is the only car in its competitive segment that is fitted with dynamic engine mounts. These mounts solve the conflicting goals of achieving as soft a connection as possible to the powertrain for high comfort and as rigid a connection as possible for optimum driving dynamics. The dynamic mounts are quickly and variably able to adapt their stiffness to the driving conditions and requirements. These measures enhance the vehicle's precision when driven dynamically, while the soft setting increases comfort. Top speed of the E63 S Wagon is 180 mph; 186 mph for the sedan. No price info as of yet.
The Mercedes-AMG E63 S Sedan and Wagon get extensive updates for the 2021 model year. In its latest generation, high-performance vehicle dynamics are combined with considerably more comfort and supplemented by an extensive design update. The central air cooling inlet in the completely restyled front section is significantly larger than before and now also bears the distinctive AMG-specific radiator grille, featuring vertical slats and a larger central star. Together with the flatter, all-LED multibeam headlamps, aggressive wheel arches flared further outwards and the rounded-fit hood with twin power domes, a completely new, considerably more dynamic appearance is created. The reshaped front bumper has three large, functional air intakes and a front splitter enhances the overall proportions and also significantly reduces lift at the front axle. The interior is also thoroughly enhanced with the Widescreen Cockpit, the new AMG Performance steering wheel and the MBUX infotainment system with AMG-specific functions and displays. The Handcrafted AMG 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine in the E63 S is coupled to an AMG Speedshift MCT 9-speed transmission and delivers 603HP with a maximum torque of 627 lb-ft. available across a wide engine speed range from 2,500 to 4,500 rpm. The E63 S Sedan goes 0 to 60 mph in an estimated 3.3 seconds. The 0-60 mph time for the Wagon is an estimated 3.4 seconds. The E63 S is the only car in its competitive segment that is fitted with dynamic engine mounts. These mounts solve the conflicting goals of achieving as soft a connection as possible to the powertrain for high comfort and as rigid a connection as possible for optimum driving dynamics. The dynamic mounts are quickly and variably able to adapt their stiffness to the driving conditions and requirements. These measures enhance the vehicle's precision when driven dynamically, while the soft setting increases comfort. Top speed of the E63 S Wagon is 180 mph; 186 mph for the sedan. No price info as of yet.
AE Song Lyrics of the Week:
As I walk through this wicked world
Searching for light in the darkness of insanity
I ask myself is all hope lost?
Is there only pain and hatred and misery?
And each time I feel like this inside
There's one thing I want to know
What's so funny 'bout peace, love and understanding?
Oh, what's so funny 'bout peace, love and understanding?
And as I walked on through troubled times
My spirit gets so downhearted sometimes
So where are the strong? And who are the trusted?
And where is the harmony? Sweet harmony
'Cause each time I feel it slipping away
Just makes me want to cry
What's so funny 'bout peace, love and understanding?
Oh, what's so funny 'bout peace, love and understanding?
"(What's So Funny 'Bout) Peace, Love and Understanding?" - by Elvis Costello, from the album "Armed Forces" (1978).* Listen here.
*This song was written by Nick Lowe and originally recorded by his band Brinsley Schwarz in 1974. Despite a wealth of talent and great deal of promotional support, Brinsley Schwarz never managed a hit, but were very influential to artists like The Clash and Elvis Costello. Nick Lowe became a very successful producer and scored a hit as a solo artist with "Cruel To Be Kind." Lowe told The A.V. Club that this song started out as a joke: "I wrote the song in 1973, and the hippie thing was going out, and everyone was starting to take harder drugs and rediscover drink. Alcohol was coming back, and everyone sort of slipped out of the hippie dream and into a more cynical and more unpleasant frame of mind. And this song was supposed to be an old hippie, laughed at by the new thinking, saying to these new smarty-pants types, 'Look, you think you got it all going on. You can laugh at me, but all I'm saying is, 'What's so funny about peace, love, and understanding?' And that was the idea of the song. But I think as I started writing it, something told me it was too good idea to make it into a joke. It was originally supposed to be a joke song, but something told me there was a little grain of wisdom in this thing, and not to mess it up." Costello and Lowe were both signed to Stiff Records, and Costello's version, credited as "Nick Lowe & His Sound" was first released as the B-side of Lowe's 1978 single "American Squirm." Costello's version was more energetic and had more Pop appeal. It was included on American editions of Costello's 1979 album Armed Forces. With its simple message of unity and love in a troubled world, the song became an anthem for peace and tolerance, and was recorded by many artists, including A Perfect Circle, Lucy Kaplansky, The Flaming Lips and The Wallflowers. In 1992, this song was covered by Curtis Stigers for the Whitney Houston film, The Bodyguard. The film's soundtrack album went on to sell 44 million copies worldwide, landing Lowe a large royalty check that financed his less commercial music. Lowe told The Telegraph: "It was a tremendous piece of good fortune. I made an astonishing amount of money from that." This song memorably appears in the 2003 movie Lost in Translation, where Bill Murray sings a karaoke version. (Knowledge courtesy of songfacts.com)
