It’s always a treat when the German automaker, Porsche releases a new 911 model just from an engineering standpoint; I am constantly amazed how after over four decades of production of this iconic speedster Porsche always seems able to deliver something that we haven’t seen before. It is almost like they are the NASA of the automotive world, constantly introducing true innovations to the automotive industry.
The new bodyshell for the 911 is dubbed the 997 and gives us the sexy smooth styling of the 996 body series but is blended with the retro chic look of the earlier 911. The front of the body features rounded lights and independent parking and fog lights. This modification coupled with the wider hip adjustment brings to mind the earlier and now extinct air cooled 911 body which was called the 993. The new look also introduces a new door handle style, wing mirrors, and the rear wings are integrated into the bumper.
The 997 bodyshell while resembling the 996 is almost 40mm wider and makes for a more forceful looking appearance without dramatically altering the styling of the car. Another key issue with the German car maker is to always try to reduce the drag in order to make the vehicle cut through air with the least friction possible and they have done it again with the 997 bodyshell. The drag co-efficient has been reduced from .34 in the 993 to .28 now in the new 997. This is one of the engineering marvels that is just mind blowing to me. How can they take a car that already has one of the lowest drag co-efficients and make it even lower?
The advances in the structural engineering and suspension have created a Porsche that handles better than ever with improved rigidity in the torsion bars and nearly forty percent more flexural strength.
Improving crash safety was a key desire for the new 911, hence two new airbags are now located in the side of each front seat back rest which are made to protect the thorax area of the body. This new addition along with the two front and two side airbags brings the tall up to six.
The new stronger bodyshell also employs more super high strength steel than ever before which makes it over 100 lbs heavier than the 996 before it, but the reason is to meet the newer crash safety standards. Despite the additional weight, the advances in aerodynamics help it to match the performance of the 996 themed 911.
Thursday, November 23, 2006
Three Factors In Choosing A Body Shop For Your Sports Car
Even though you baby your sports car and take great pains to care for it perfectly, accidents do occasionally happen. When they do, the sports car owner must decide where to take their vehicle for body repair.
Choosing a body shop is an important process. You want to make sure your sports car is restored to pre-accident condition and, of course, you don’t want to overpay for the necessary repairs.
As with any service, there are both great providers and horrible providers. Most probably fall between the two extremes. Considering, however, the importance of a sports car to a motor enthusiast, it seems reasonable to take special care to try to find the best possible service.
There are at least three factors one should evaluate when choosing a body shop for their sports car. Although these guidelines are certainly not meant to be comprehensive, they do provide a great starting point for any sports car owner in need of bodywork.
The first factor is the reputation of the body shop. Check with other sports car owners, your regular mechanic and others to find a body shop known for its quality workmanship and fair pricing. A good shop will have a good reputation. Similarly, one is best to steer clear of outfits that are not so highly regarded. Don’t be seduced by one shop’s advertising claims or overlook another shop that doesn’t advertise at all. Instead, seek out the opinions of experts and those with direct experience with area body shops when choosing your repair site.
The second factor is your opinion of their actual work. Any body shop should be more than happy to show you some of the work they have recently completed or currently have in progress. By evaluating their actual work product, you can often decide if you believe they can handle your specific sports car body issue. If you feel their efforts look less than perfect or seem somehow “off,” you can anticipate having similar feelings about the work they would do on your sports car.
The third factor is how solidly a shop will stand behind its work. Bodywork can usually be done in a way that can last almost indefinitely, and a good shop should be willing to stand solidly behind its repair work. Ask the body shop about any guarantee they are willing to issue or what their specific policies are if the work performed fails to meet your exact specifications. A body shop manager who acts offended or is reluctant to stand behind their work without hesitation is probably a poor choice for a discriminating sports car owner.
Bodywork can be expensive and time-consuming. Poorly performed bodywork can be a drag on sports car performance and can result in multiple expenditures to have the very same problem corrected. It pays to make sure the work is completed correctly the first time.
A sports car is always an investment, and is often a passion. It only makes sense to be sure talented professionals will be handling your sports car in the unfortunate event of an accident. A sports car owner should not rely purely on instinct of a prominent yellow page advertisement when choosing a body shop. A smart sports car owner who looks carefully for a great body shop is likely doing himself or herself a great favor.
Accidents happen, but there is no reason to compound the annoyance associated with them by choosing a second-rate body shop. Choose wisely, and the memory of that unfortunate accident can be nearly erased.
Choosing a body shop is an important process. You want to make sure your sports car is restored to pre-accident condition and, of course, you don’t want to overpay for the necessary repairs.
As with any service, there are both great providers and horrible providers. Most probably fall between the two extremes. Considering, however, the importance of a sports car to a motor enthusiast, it seems reasonable to take special care to try to find the best possible service.
There are at least three factors one should evaluate when choosing a body shop for their sports car. Although these guidelines are certainly not meant to be comprehensive, they do provide a great starting point for any sports car owner in need of bodywork.
The first factor is the reputation of the body shop. Check with other sports car owners, your regular mechanic and others to find a body shop known for its quality workmanship and fair pricing. A good shop will have a good reputation. Similarly, one is best to steer clear of outfits that are not so highly regarded. Don’t be seduced by one shop’s advertising claims or overlook another shop that doesn’t advertise at all. Instead, seek out the opinions of experts and those with direct experience with area body shops when choosing your repair site.
The second factor is your opinion of their actual work. Any body shop should be more than happy to show you some of the work they have recently completed or currently have in progress. By evaluating their actual work product, you can often decide if you believe they can handle your specific sports car body issue. If you feel their efforts look less than perfect or seem somehow “off,” you can anticipate having similar feelings about the work they would do on your sports car.
The third factor is how solidly a shop will stand behind its work. Bodywork can usually be done in a way that can last almost indefinitely, and a good shop should be willing to stand solidly behind its repair work. Ask the body shop about any guarantee they are willing to issue or what their specific policies are if the work performed fails to meet your exact specifications. A body shop manager who acts offended or is reluctant to stand behind their work without hesitation is probably a poor choice for a discriminating sports car owner.
Bodywork can be expensive and time-consuming. Poorly performed bodywork can be a drag on sports car performance and can result in multiple expenditures to have the very same problem corrected. It pays to make sure the work is completed correctly the first time.
A sports car is always an investment, and is often a passion. It only makes sense to be sure talented professionals will be handling your sports car in the unfortunate event of an accident. A sports car owner should not rely purely on instinct of a prominent yellow page advertisement when choosing a body shop. A smart sports car owner who looks carefully for a great body shop is likely doing himself or herself a great favor.
Accidents happen, but there is no reason to compound the annoyance associated with them by choosing a second-rate body shop. Choose wisely, and the memory of that unfortunate accident can be nearly erased.
Will Advancing Technology And Gas Prices Make Sports Cars Go Away?
There are many sports car lovers who are afraid that they will soon go the way of the dinosaur because of high fuel prices and the advances in performance technology that is enabling family sedans to compete with sports cars in quickness. While it does seem that there has been somewhat of a decline in sports cars along with increased sales of SUVs some of the current developments tell me that the vehicles we love are not going to be around in large numbers but they will still be around.
Back in the day, muscle cars ruled in the performance realm and regular sedans and trucks couldn't keep up. SUVs didn't even exist. Now with the innovations in design and engine performance and the light weight materials being used automakers are getting superior results out of smaller engines. In addition normal production vehicles now handle as good as a race car.
Some of the other issues that are causing the decline in the numbers of sports cars seen on the road include comfort and affordability. Sports cars in the truest sense are not built for comfort, they are built for speed and long road trips are no fun. The larger cars of today that still offer a sporty ride give you the best of both worlds. As far as the affordability issue goes, it is quite simple most families are just unable to afford the expense of having a car just for fun. People these days have to make use of their cars on a daily basis as it has become cost prohibitive to keep one around just as a hobby or weekend car.
In the beginning cars were used as sport, for racing across country in rallies and contests. It wasn't until much later that they became mainstream everyday drivers.
Some good news for the high end sports car market is that there are several companies that are beginning production of hybrid or electric sports cars. Some of the top companies like Toyota, Honda, Mazda, and Mitsubishi are working on bringing them to the open market.
The most promising one that I have seen as a true sports car in terms of performance and the fact that it is a two seater is the new totally electric roadster from Tesla Motors, a company backed by the founders of Google and Paypal. The car does 0 to 60 in less than 4 seconds and it runs on laptop batteries!
Back in the day, muscle cars ruled in the performance realm and regular sedans and trucks couldn't keep up. SUVs didn't even exist. Now with the innovations in design and engine performance and the light weight materials being used automakers are getting superior results out of smaller engines. In addition normal production vehicles now handle as good as a race car.
Some of the other issues that are causing the decline in the numbers of sports cars seen on the road include comfort and affordability. Sports cars in the truest sense are not built for comfort, they are built for speed and long road trips are no fun. The larger cars of today that still offer a sporty ride give you the best of both worlds. As far as the affordability issue goes, it is quite simple most families are just unable to afford the expense of having a car just for fun. People these days have to make use of their cars on a daily basis as it has become cost prohibitive to keep one around just as a hobby or weekend car.
In the beginning cars were used as sport, for racing across country in rallies and contests. It wasn't until much later that they became mainstream everyday drivers.
Some good news for the high end sports car market is that there are several companies that are beginning production of hybrid or electric sports cars. Some of the top companies like Toyota, Honda, Mazda, and Mitsubishi are working on bringing them to the open market.
The most promising one that I have seen as a true sports car in terms of performance and the fact that it is a two seater is the new totally electric roadster from Tesla Motors, a company backed by the founders of Google and Paypal. The car does 0 to 60 in less than 4 seconds and it runs on laptop batteries!
The Car Radar Detector Debate: To Legalize Or Not To Legalize
Outside of the United States, there has been a widespread ban on car radar detectors. However, this is not a new motion. In Canada and in many European countries, radar detectors have been illegal for some time now because of the fact that they would normally allow motorists to break the law until the mildly annoying beeping noise notified them of police presence.
In that case, the motorist would quickly slow down to the proper speed and nobody ever had to know that they had been driving 50 Kmph over the speed limit.
The radar detector would notify the motorist in plenty of time before the police caught them on their radar. It seemed like the perfect crime. However, radar detectors were soon outlawed. Some police organizations also fitted their radar with a detector that would detect... well... radar detectors.
In other words, they developed a radar-detector detector. For the most part, this made it nearly impossible to use one and get away with it. Now the word on the street is, why are radar detectors banned? What is so bad about them?
The counter-argument to those who advocate use of the radar detector is simple. The anti-radar detector group believed that motorists who use radar detectors pose a greater risk on the road than those who do not use them. At first glance, you may be inclined to agree with the anti-radar detector group simply because those using radar detectors would be more likely to drive faster, therefore increasing the risk of accident.
However, the 2001 Mori Report tells us that those drivers using a radar detector actually pose 28% less risk than those who do not use them. Interestingly, this may point to the fact that those drivers who drive at or under the speed limit pose as great of a risk of accident, if not more, than those who drive over the speed limit.
In Canada, the car radar detector is illegal in all provinces and territories except Alberta and Saskatchewan. It was legal in most provinces until the late 1980’s and early 1990’s.
In that case, the motorist would quickly slow down to the proper speed and nobody ever had to know that they had been driving 50 Kmph over the speed limit.
The radar detector would notify the motorist in plenty of time before the police caught them on their radar. It seemed like the perfect crime. However, radar detectors were soon outlawed. Some police organizations also fitted their radar with a detector that would detect... well... radar detectors.
In other words, they developed a radar-detector detector. For the most part, this made it nearly impossible to use one and get away with it. Now the word on the street is, why are radar detectors banned? What is so bad about them?
The counter-argument to those who advocate use of the radar detector is simple. The anti-radar detector group believed that motorists who use radar detectors pose a greater risk on the road than those who do not use them. At first glance, you may be inclined to agree with the anti-radar detector group simply because those using radar detectors would be more likely to drive faster, therefore increasing the risk of accident.
However, the 2001 Mori Report tells us that those drivers using a radar detector actually pose 28% less risk than those who do not use them. Interestingly, this may point to the fact that those drivers who drive at or under the speed limit pose as great of a risk of accident, if not more, than those who drive over the speed limit.
In Canada, the car radar detector is illegal in all provinces and territories except Alberta and Saskatchewan. It was legal in most provinces until the late 1980’s and early 1990’s.
A Car Warranty Makes Sense
When you buy a car, whether it is new or used, you may be offered a car warranty or extended car warranty, and you should go for it. You might not like to have to pay for a car warranty, but chances are that it will come in handy later on down the road and it will be money well spent. An extended car warranty is often offered on brand new cars that are covered under a manufacturers warranty for a limited time, and these are usually worth their weight in gold.
A car warranty makes sense because it gives you protection. While the car may seem in good working order right now, there is no telling what may happen in three months, a year, or three years. While your car looks good, lurking under the hood may be thousands of dollars worth of repairs ticking like a time bomb. A car warranty protects you from having to pay repairs out of pocket, if they are covered by the warranty.
If your new or used car purchase seems like a really good deal, it doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t go for the car warranty. Car warranties are like health insurance - you can never have too much coverage. If you have the opportunity to purchase a car warranty, you should purchase it, because you never know when your car may go bad. Cars are a true investment, and a car warranty is one of the best ways to protect your investment.
A car warranty makes sense because it gives you protection. While the car may seem in good working order right now, there is no telling what may happen in three months, a year, or three years. While your car looks good, lurking under the hood may be thousands of dollars worth of repairs ticking like a time bomb. A car warranty protects you from having to pay repairs out of pocket, if they are covered by the warranty.
If your new or used car purchase seems like a really good deal, it doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t go for the car warranty. Car warranties are like health insurance - you can never have too much coverage. If you have the opportunity to purchase a car warranty, you should purchase it, because you never know when your car may go bad. Cars are a true investment, and a car warranty is one of the best ways to protect your investment.
Saturday, November 18, 2006
Why You Need A Performance Exhaust?
To ensure car manufacturers meet the expectations of the mainstream customer, many of today's cars leave the factory with low-velocity, ultra-quiet exhaust systems. As a result, exhaust flow (along with power and torque) is restricted. But our performance exhaust systems release this stranglehold on your engine. By using patented technology to boost exhaust flow velocity, our exhausts systems unleash the power and optimize your cars performance.
What's more, you will gain a non-raspy distinctive euro exhaust note. And while stock exhaust systems tend to discolor and lose their showroom appearance quickly, our systems ads fine motorsport styling to your vehicle, designed to endure years of heavy use. Precision manufacturing using aircraft quality T-304 stainless steel prevents corrosion, and keeps your exhaust system looking new. Each system includes a variety of trademark engineering enhancements. Including ultra-smooth mandrel bends for maximum flow and power.
Sport Exhaust Systems:
If you are interested in modifying you VW/Audi for better performance, the exhaust system should be the first step. A good sport exhaust will provide more power for the money than any other modification you can consider. Plus, a sport exhaust makes your car sound that much better. Usually, both horsepower and mileage go up when you upgrade the exhaust.
Note: Failure to change the exhaust before making other performance modifications can hurt performance. Some cam and chip upgrades just do not work properly without upgrading the exhaust system.
The cast iron dual outlet manifold lasts and lasts and is quieter than a tubular header. In most cases, your stock cast iron exhaust manifold or a cast euro-manifold will offer excellent results when used with a Techtonics Tuned downpipe or euro-downpipe and sport exhaust system. (The exceptions to this are the '82 & up Scirocco, '83-'84 GTI/GLI single outlet manifolds.) The difference in power output between the best headers and the stock or euro-manifold/Techtonics Tuned downpipe combination is quite small.
Techtonics Tuning has a downpipe for use on the early VW's with stock catalytic converters. A direct replacement on early cars with a stock dual outlet manifold or cars that have been fitted with the dual outlet manifold, this downpipe will "keep you legal" while adding about 8% more horsepower to a stock motor. Something else to consider: Due to the rocking motion of a transverse mounted engine, it is difficult to make a header that will hold up well. Tubular headers just do not last for most people.
BBM is very pleased to offer you Techtonics Tuned Exhaust for the earlier VW's. This system doesn't make as much "advertised" horsepower as our competitors claim their's does. However, in terms of "real" dyno tested power Techtonics Tuning systems have the competition marking their words.
Another plus for the TECHTONICS TUNED exhaust is that all parts for the system are available separately. How do they fit? With more than 20 years of refinement TT systems fit better than the competitions. All systems have a resonator as well as a muffler to dampen out harsh sound levels.
Stainless Steel Exhaust Systems:
Simply the best fitting and longest lasting exhaust system available for your VW. With over 20 years of refinement and upgrading we are able to offer a * Limited Lifetime Warranty on all stainless steel cat back exhaust systems. Our latest systems are made of 304 stainless steel. This includes the tubing, clamps, resonator, and muffler. Perfect for "salt belt" dwellers. Nobody gives you the options that TT offers. You can choose the sound level by ordering the system with 0,1 or 2 resonators (available for the Mk2, Mk3, Passat 16V & Corrado G-60).
What's more, you will gain a non-raspy distinctive euro exhaust note. And while stock exhaust systems tend to discolor and lose their showroom appearance quickly, our systems ads fine motorsport styling to your vehicle, designed to endure years of heavy use. Precision manufacturing using aircraft quality T-304 stainless steel prevents corrosion, and keeps your exhaust system looking new. Each system includes a variety of trademark engineering enhancements. Including ultra-smooth mandrel bends for maximum flow and power.
Sport Exhaust Systems:
If you are interested in modifying you VW/Audi for better performance, the exhaust system should be the first step. A good sport exhaust will provide more power for the money than any other modification you can consider. Plus, a sport exhaust makes your car sound that much better. Usually, both horsepower and mileage go up when you upgrade the exhaust.
Note: Failure to change the exhaust before making other performance modifications can hurt performance. Some cam and chip upgrades just do not work properly without upgrading the exhaust system.
The cast iron dual outlet manifold lasts and lasts and is quieter than a tubular header. In most cases, your stock cast iron exhaust manifold or a cast euro-manifold will offer excellent results when used with a Techtonics Tuned downpipe or euro-downpipe and sport exhaust system. (The exceptions to this are the '82 & up Scirocco, '83-'84 GTI/GLI single outlet manifolds.) The difference in power output between the best headers and the stock or euro-manifold/Techtonics Tuned downpipe combination is quite small.
Techtonics Tuning has a downpipe for use on the early VW's with stock catalytic converters. A direct replacement on early cars with a stock dual outlet manifold or cars that have been fitted with the dual outlet manifold, this downpipe will "keep you legal" while adding about 8% more horsepower to a stock motor. Something else to consider: Due to the rocking motion of a transverse mounted engine, it is difficult to make a header that will hold up well. Tubular headers just do not last for most people.
BBM is very pleased to offer you Techtonics Tuned Exhaust for the earlier VW's. This system doesn't make as much "advertised" horsepower as our competitors claim their's does. However, in terms of "real" dyno tested power Techtonics Tuning systems have the competition marking their words.
Another plus for the TECHTONICS TUNED exhaust is that all parts for the system are available separately. How do they fit? With more than 20 years of refinement TT systems fit better than the competitions. All systems have a resonator as well as a muffler to dampen out harsh sound levels.
Stainless Steel Exhaust Systems:
Simply the best fitting and longest lasting exhaust system available for your VW. With over 20 years of refinement and upgrading we are able to offer a * Limited Lifetime Warranty on all stainless steel cat back exhaust systems. Our latest systems are made of 304 stainless steel. This includes the tubing, clamps, resonator, and muffler. Perfect for "salt belt" dwellers. Nobody gives you the options that TT offers. You can choose the sound level by ordering the system with 0,1 or 2 resonators (available for the Mk2, Mk3, Passat 16V & Corrado G-60).
Gas Saving Tips 1 - Use Less Gas And Save Money
You have probably heard theses gas saving tips from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), and whoever taught you to drive. Yet very few people actually bother to implement them.
Why is that? Are people tired of hearing them? Have these gas saving tips been said so many times that people tune them out? Well, you are going to hear them again in this series of articles, along with the reasons why they DO work!
Gas Saving Tip #1: Know Your Vehicle's Fuel Efficiency
The actual fuel efficiency of your car will probably differ from that stated on the price sticker. Variables such as make, model, weather, city or interstate driving, and driving habits will affect the fuel efficiency. Efficiency is measured in miles driven per gallon of gasoline used (miles per gallon or mpg).
That is why you should periodically calculate your vehicle's fuel efficiency. If you see it decreasing, you know that something's not right with the engine and can take quick action to fix it.
Some people are unaware of how to properly calculate fuel efficiency. It is more than simply dividing miles by gallons. For example, if someone drives 500 miles and then buys 1 gallon of gas, the fuel efficiency is not 500 miles per gallon!
Here is the proper method to calculate fuel efficiency in mpg:
1. Fill up your gas tank. Do not top it off.
2. Write down the starting mileage.
3. Drive until the tank is almost empty.
4. Fill the tank up again the next time you need to buy gas.
5. Write down the ending mileage.
6. Write down the number of gallons of gas it took to fill up the tank.
7. Calculate the Miles Traveled as the Ending Mileage minus the Starting Mileage.
8. The fuel efficiency in mpg = Miles Traveled / Gallons Used
Example:
A driver fills up her tank when the odometer reads 25,000 miles. When the tank is almost empty, she fills up with 18.5 gallons, and the odometer reads 25,500 miles.
Starting Mileage = 25,000 miles
Ending Mileage = 25,500 miles
Miles Traveled = 25,500 - 25,000 = 500 miles
Gallons Used = 18.5 gallons
Fuel Efficiency = 500 miles / 18.5 gallons = 27 mpg
If her next efficiency calculation under similar driving conditions is only 20 mpg, she knows that something is wrong with the vehicle.
As gas prices go higher, the need to save gas and save money on fuel is greater than ever. More gas saving tips can be found at the website below.
Why is that? Are people tired of hearing them? Have these gas saving tips been said so many times that people tune them out? Well, you are going to hear them again in this series of articles, along with the reasons why they DO work!
Gas Saving Tip #1: Know Your Vehicle's Fuel Efficiency
The actual fuel efficiency of your car will probably differ from that stated on the price sticker. Variables such as make, model, weather, city or interstate driving, and driving habits will affect the fuel efficiency. Efficiency is measured in miles driven per gallon of gasoline used (miles per gallon or mpg).
That is why you should periodically calculate your vehicle's fuel efficiency. If you see it decreasing, you know that something's not right with the engine and can take quick action to fix it.
Some people are unaware of how to properly calculate fuel efficiency. It is more than simply dividing miles by gallons. For example, if someone drives 500 miles and then buys 1 gallon of gas, the fuel efficiency is not 500 miles per gallon!
Here is the proper method to calculate fuel efficiency in mpg:
1. Fill up your gas tank. Do not top it off.
2. Write down the starting mileage.
3. Drive until the tank is almost empty.
4. Fill the tank up again the next time you need to buy gas.
5. Write down the ending mileage.
6. Write down the number of gallons of gas it took to fill up the tank.
7. Calculate the Miles Traveled as the Ending Mileage minus the Starting Mileage.
8. The fuel efficiency in mpg = Miles Traveled / Gallons Used
Example:
A driver fills up her tank when the odometer reads 25,000 miles. When the tank is almost empty, she fills up with 18.5 gallons, and the odometer reads 25,500 miles.
Starting Mileage = 25,000 miles
Ending Mileage = 25,500 miles
Miles Traveled = 25,500 - 25,000 = 500 miles
Gallons Used = 18.5 gallons
Fuel Efficiency = 500 miles / 18.5 gallons = 27 mpg
If her next efficiency calculation under similar driving conditions is only 20 mpg, she knows that something is wrong with the vehicle.
As gas prices go higher, the need to save gas and save money on fuel is greater than ever. More gas saving tips can be found at the website below.
Three Free Ways To Protect Your Sports Car
Your sports car represents a significant investment. For many owners, their sports car ranks second only to their home in terms of cost. When one has paid a substantial sum for an item, it only makes sense to take proactive steps to insure its protection.
There are many ways one can protect their sports car. A car can be protected against theft with expensive alarm systems and accessories such as locking lug nuts or a club-like steering wheel lock.
A sports car can be protected from environmental damage via the use of a car cover, parking in a garage, regular weather-related maintenance, and other activities.
There is a burgeoning industry surrounding sports car enthusiasts. There are literally hundreds of ways to protect every component of your automobile, and aspiring entrepreneurs will continue to find new must-have products to defend your investment.
However, the sports car hobbyist does have means of protecting their car that do not require any financial outlays. By utilizing common sense and care, you can take many measures to protect your sports car without spending a dime. Here are three examples:
Parking
You can avoid door dings and other similar body-related problems simply by parking wisely and carefully. Remind yourself of your investment and seek out parking spaces that give you a wide enough berth. Don’t try to crowd into a space next to another car—doing so will almost guarantee a paint scratch or chip when the driver in the next slot opens his or her door.
Don’t park under trees. Trees house birds and produce sap and falling pieces. All of these can damage your sports car’s paint or finish. Simply refuse to park under a branch. You may have to seek out a spot a little farther from your destination, but you can make the walk while feeling better about yourself and your sports car’s well being.
Driving
There is a tendency to think of sports car driving as a high-speed and reckless endeavor. This is not, of course, the case. Although aficionados may seek out opportunities to test their vehicles speed and acceleration, they do not do so recklessly and are, in fact, among the safest drivers on the road.
This commitment to safety and care needs to be carried into regular traffic situations as well. Any sports car owner should remember that the best way to protect their car while driving it is to remain accident-free. Even stalwart drivers can benefit from re-reading defensive driving guidelines and making a concerted effort to drive as safely as possible.
Maintaining
Many sports cars are damaged while actually being repaired. Although it may seem counterintuitive, the garage is a primary source of scratches, dings and chips for many sports cars. Those performing maintenance on their vehicle must handle tools carefully and pay close attention to how they are working on their car. For instance, tools should never be placed directly on the car.
Additionally, repair situations create the possibility of damaging the mechanical components for your sports car. Make sure that before you embark on any repair work that you understand exactly what is required and expected. Otherwise, you may unintentionally damage your sports car.
These may seem like common sense actions. Truth be told, they are. Common sense, however, is easily lost in many situations. Sports car ownership presents many options and considerations in terms of protecting your car, and the most simple and important means of protecting your car can get lost in the shuffle unless you are willing to make a strong commitment to parking, driving, and maintaining your vehicle with great care.
There are many ways one can protect their sports car. A car can be protected against theft with expensive alarm systems and accessories such as locking lug nuts or a club-like steering wheel lock.
A sports car can be protected from environmental damage via the use of a car cover, parking in a garage, regular weather-related maintenance, and other activities.
There is a burgeoning industry surrounding sports car enthusiasts. There are literally hundreds of ways to protect every component of your automobile, and aspiring entrepreneurs will continue to find new must-have products to defend your investment.
However, the sports car hobbyist does have means of protecting their car that do not require any financial outlays. By utilizing common sense and care, you can take many measures to protect your sports car without spending a dime. Here are three examples:
Parking
You can avoid door dings and other similar body-related problems simply by parking wisely and carefully. Remind yourself of your investment and seek out parking spaces that give you a wide enough berth. Don’t try to crowd into a space next to another car—doing so will almost guarantee a paint scratch or chip when the driver in the next slot opens his or her door.
Don’t park under trees. Trees house birds and produce sap and falling pieces. All of these can damage your sports car’s paint or finish. Simply refuse to park under a branch. You may have to seek out a spot a little farther from your destination, but you can make the walk while feeling better about yourself and your sports car’s well being.
Driving
There is a tendency to think of sports car driving as a high-speed and reckless endeavor. This is not, of course, the case. Although aficionados may seek out opportunities to test their vehicles speed and acceleration, they do not do so recklessly and are, in fact, among the safest drivers on the road.
This commitment to safety and care needs to be carried into regular traffic situations as well. Any sports car owner should remember that the best way to protect their car while driving it is to remain accident-free. Even stalwart drivers can benefit from re-reading defensive driving guidelines and making a concerted effort to drive as safely as possible.
Maintaining
Many sports cars are damaged while actually being repaired. Although it may seem counterintuitive, the garage is a primary source of scratches, dings and chips for many sports cars. Those performing maintenance on their vehicle must handle tools carefully and pay close attention to how they are working on their car. For instance, tools should never be placed directly on the car.
Additionally, repair situations create the possibility of damaging the mechanical components for your sports car. Make sure that before you embark on any repair work that you understand exactly what is required and expected. Otherwise, you may unintentionally damage your sports car.
These may seem like common sense actions. Truth be told, they are. Common sense, however, is easily lost in many situations. Sports car ownership presents many options and considerations in terms of protecting your car, and the most simple and important means of protecting your car can get lost in the shuffle unless you are willing to make a strong commitment to parking, driving, and maintaining your vehicle with great care.
Consider A Hybrid Car To Save Gas
Why you should consider a hybrid Vehicle...
Hybrid vehicles work by combining a gas powered engine with an electric motor generator that gets power from a battery pack. You do not need to plug in or charge your hybrid, as most vehicles have the ability to charge themselves while you are driving. This onboard system is called RESS (rechargeable energy storage system).
You may already know that hybrid vehicles are a good way to reduce pollution and harmful emissions and are therefore more environmentally friendly. But did you know that a hybrid vehicle can save you up to 250 gallons of gas each year?
There is also a special program implemented by the IRS that allows new owners of hybrid vehicles to apply for a tax break. Your local tax preparation office or any dealership that sells hybrid vehicles can tell you more about this special financial benefit.
You can expect to pay a few thousand more for a hybrid vehicle than you would a non-hybrid of the same type. How much the vehicle costs will depend on the year, make and model. For example, the affordable Honda Accord hybrid runs around $30,000. On the other end of the spectrum, the luxury RX400h SUV hybrid offered by Lexus will cost at least $10,000 to $15,000 more.
With rising gas prices and increasing alarm about the condition of our environment, hybrid vehicles are becoming more and more mainstream with each passing day. If you're considering purchasing a hybrid vehicle, research is the first order of business. It's always a good idea to do a little preliminary searching online before ever entering a dealership so you will know more about the vehicles you are interested in as well as how much you can expect to pay for them. You may initially be paying more for a hybrid car, but when you consider the overall benefits, purchasing a hybrid vehicle may prove to be a wise investment.
Hybrid vehicles work by combining a gas powered engine with an electric motor generator that gets power from a battery pack. You do not need to plug in or charge your hybrid, as most vehicles have the ability to charge themselves while you are driving. This onboard system is called RESS (rechargeable energy storage system).
You may already know that hybrid vehicles are a good way to reduce pollution and harmful emissions and are therefore more environmentally friendly. But did you know that a hybrid vehicle can save you up to 250 gallons of gas each year?
There is also a special program implemented by the IRS that allows new owners of hybrid vehicles to apply for a tax break. Your local tax preparation office or any dealership that sells hybrid vehicles can tell you more about this special financial benefit.
You can expect to pay a few thousand more for a hybrid vehicle than you would a non-hybrid of the same type. How much the vehicle costs will depend on the year, make and model. For example, the affordable Honda Accord hybrid runs around $30,000. On the other end of the spectrum, the luxury RX400h SUV hybrid offered by Lexus will cost at least $10,000 to $15,000 more.
With rising gas prices and increasing alarm about the condition of our environment, hybrid vehicles are becoming more and more mainstream with each passing day. If you're considering purchasing a hybrid vehicle, research is the first order of business. It's always a good idea to do a little preliminary searching online before ever entering a dealership so you will know more about the vehicles you are interested in as well as how much you can expect to pay for them. You may initially be paying more for a hybrid car, but when you consider the overall benefits, purchasing a hybrid vehicle may prove to be a wise investment.
Zero To Sixty In Under Four Seconds In An Electric Car
I bet you had to read that headline twice! I know, I couldn't believe it myself. One of the biggest deterrents to buying an electric car for me has always been performance. Now we finally have someone with a vision for revolutionizing the industry that is doing what no one else has done to date, introduce an electric car that performs like a sports car.
The development of this cutting edge vehicle by Martin Eberhard is being bankrolled by high profile internet billionaires like the founders of Google and Paypal. This should tell you right away that this car is serious business.
The new battery powered car will be one of the quickest production cars available on the planet holding its own with the likes of Ferraris and Lamborghinis that cost five times what the new roadster will sell for. The name of the company is Tesla Motors, named for the Serbian inventor of the first AC powered motor.
The Tesla roadster gets its power from nearly 7,000 lithium-ion batteries, rechargeable of course. There is nothing special about the batteries either, they are the exact same batteries we use in our laptops. Besides going from 0 to sixty in under 4 seconds the vehicle has a top speed of over 130 mph and a range before recharging of 250 miles. The first model to be built will be a two seater roadster but they already have plans for a sedan as well. So what does it cost to run this car? You won't believe it, less than two cents a mile! Say goodbye to high gas prices because this car uses ZERO gas.
Eberhard's electrical engineering background is what has given him the knowledge used to build the first performance electric car. He says he got his inspiration to create the car from reading about other revolutionaries in the automotive industry, John DeLorean and Preston Tucker.
Instead of trying to invent a new battery source he decided to use the lithium-ion batteries because he was involved in the computer industry and he knows that the large computer companies will keep working to make lighter and longer lasting batteries that he can get from the computer industry and use for powering his cars.
Tesla Motors has gone from a concept to a car that will be built in less than three years. The first cars are being built in a factory in England and will be available by summer of 2007. The price of the first cars is expected to be around $80,000. Considering the price of gas, that may soon be considered a bargain.
The development of this cutting edge vehicle by Martin Eberhard is being bankrolled by high profile internet billionaires like the founders of Google and Paypal. This should tell you right away that this car is serious business.
The new battery powered car will be one of the quickest production cars available on the planet holding its own with the likes of Ferraris and Lamborghinis that cost five times what the new roadster will sell for. The name of the company is Tesla Motors, named for the Serbian inventor of the first AC powered motor.
The Tesla roadster gets its power from nearly 7,000 lithium-ion batteries, rechargeable of course. There is nothing special about the batteries either, they are the exact same batteries we use in our laptops. Besides going from 0 to sixty in under 4 seconds the vehicle has a top speed of over 130 mph and a range before recharging of 250 miles. The first model to be built will be a two seater roadster but they already have plans for a sedan as well. So what does it cost to run this car? You won't believe it, less than two cents a mile! Say goodbye to high gas prices because this car uses ZERO gas.
Eberhard's electrical engineering background is what has given him the knowledge used to build the first performance electric car. He says he got his inspiration to create the car from reading about other revolutionaries in the automotive industry, John DeLorean and Preston Tucker.
Instead of trying to invent a new battery source he decided to use the lithium-ion batteries because he was involved in the computer industry and he knows that the large computer companies will keep working to make lighter and longer lasting batteries that he can get from the computer industry and use for powering his cars.
Tesla Motors has gone from a concept to a car that will be built in less than three years. The first cars are being built in a factory in England and will be available by summer of 2007. The price of the first cars is expected to be around $80,000. Considering the price of gas, that may soon be considered a bargain.
Why To Wait a Year for a Hybrid Car
Hybrid cars are very popular vehicles in today's society. Hybrid cars combine the power of a gasoline engine with the environmental benefits of an electric engine to create what most consider being a better car. There are essentially two different types of hybrid cars on today's market. One type uses the gasoline engine to charge a battery. The battery then runs the electric motor in the car. The gasoline engine is reserved for situations where power is required. Another type never fully runs on the electric motor, but reserves that for situations where the car requires more power. Hybrid cars offer thirty to fifty miles per gallon of gasoline, and a host of special features that make them quite competitive with regular cars. They also, though, a price tag of three to five thousand dollars more than a typical car and waiting lists of six months to two years. There are, though, three good reasons to purchase a hybrid, despite the waiting list.
One excellent reason to purchase a hybrid car is to save money. Gas prices have been skyrocketing for the past two years. It hasn't been unusual over the course of the last several months to pay between two and three dollars per gallon of gasoline. If you live in a city or do an extensive amount of city driving, a hybrid is the car for you. Because some hybrids function on electric power only at low speeds, no gas is used during city driving. That means you could get up to fifty miles per gallon of gasoline just by driving to work each day. Since most traditionally built cars get less than twenty miles to a gallon of gasoline, you could be saving some serious cash. Some hybrids can go more than six hundred miles in between fill-ups, and that could save you more than six hundred and fifty dollars at the gas pump each year.
Another strong reason to purchase a hybrid car is to reduce pollution. City style driving is hard on a vehicle. As a result, cars produce more pollution while sitting in city traffic. Hybrid vehicles were built for this kind of a situation. Most hybrids produce ninety percent less harmful emissions than traditional vehicles do. Moreover, because many states are cracking down on emissions laws, this can save you in the long run. The government, both state and federal, offers tax incentives to purchase a hybrid vehicle. The internal revenue service alone offers up to one thousand dollars in the Clean Fuel Vehicle Tax Deduction program. Other local and state agencies offer similar deductions just to purchase a car that will help reduce pollution in our cities and neighborhoods. Additionally, it will help you feel good to know that you, personally, are doing something that will help our nation clear the air and eliminate the toxins we have spent so long adding to the atmosphere.
One final reason to purchase a hybrid car is to end dependency on oil as a power source. Oil powers everything from our homes to our cars. As a result, the United States is one of the leading countries in the demand for oil. This places us in a seriously problematic situation, as we cannot completely provide the oil we need for ourselves. Auto makers have continually pushed for more oil dependent cars like sport utility vehicles, large trucks, and minivans. Americans have bought into the bigger is better auto craze. The demand for oil goes up every day. Purchasing a hybrid, though, helps to tell the people around you as well as the government and the auto makers that you personally want fuel efficient technology that will stop robbing our natural resources and those of other countries as well as a fuel source that is not dependent on the help of other countries. Oil costs billions of dollars not only to purchase, but also to secure in trade agreements, to deal with the politics of other nations, and to find peaceful solutions to terrorist issues that change the oil supply. Those billions of dollars could find homes for other programs in our nation if we did not require as much oil.
Hybrid cars are one step to changing the way we think about driving. There are a number of excellent reasons to purchase a hybrid.
One excellent reason to purchase a hybrid car is to save money. Gas prices have been skyrocketing for the past two years. It hasn't been unusual over the course of the last several months to pay between two and three dollars per gallon of gasoline. If you live in a city or do an extensive amount of city driving, a hybrid is the car for you. Because some hybrids function on electric power only at low speeds, no gas is used during city driving. That means you could get up to fifty miles per gallon of gasoline just by driving to work each day. Since most traditionally built cars get less than twenty miles to a gallon of gasoline, you could be saving some serious cash. Some hybrids can go more than six hundred miles in between fill-ups, and that could save you more than six hundred and fifty dollars at the gas pump each year.
Another strong reason to purchase a hybrid car is to reduce pollution. City style driving is hard on a vehicle. As a result, cars produce more pollution while sitting in city traffic. Hybrid vehicles were built for this kind of a situation. Most hybrids produce ninety percent less harmful emissions than traditional vehicles do. Moreover, because many states are cracking down on emissions laws, this can save you in the long run. The government, both state and federal, offers tax incentives to purchase a hybrid vehicle. The internal revenue service alone offers up to one thousand dollars in the Clean Fuel Vehicle Tax Deduction program. Other local and state agencies offer similar deductions just to purchase a car that will help reduce pollution in our cities and neighborhoods. Additionally, it will help you feel good to know that you, personally, are doing something that will help our nation clear the air and eliminate the toxins we have spent so long adding to the atmosphere.
One final reason to purchase a hybrid car is to end dependency on oil as a power source. Oil powers everything from our homes to our cars. As a result, the United States is one of the leading countries in the demand for oil. This places us in a seriously problematic situation, as we cannot completely provide the oil we need for ourselves. Auto makers have continually pushed for more oil dependent cars like sport utility vehicles, large trucks, and minivans. Americans have bought into the bigger is better auto craze. The demand for oil goes up every day. Purchasing a hybrid, though, helps to tell the people around you as well as the government and the auto makers that you personally want fuel efficient technology that will stop robbing our natural resources and those of other countries as well as a fuel source that is not dependent on the help of other countries. Oil costs billions of dollars not only to purchase, but also to secure in trade agreements, to deal with the politics of other nations, and to find peaceful solutions to terrorist issues that change the oil supply. Those billions of dollars could find homes for other programs in our nation if we did not require as much oil.
Hybrid cars are one step to changing the way we think about driving. There are a number of excellent reasons to purchase a hybrid.
How to Buy a Used Car That Your Happy With
Most people want to know how to buy a used car and still get the car of their choice at the best price. Most consumers feel that having car payments is an unavoidable fact that haunts you, so you think that you might as well just buy a new car rather than an older one. This article will help you get every advantage of buying a used car while teaching you how to avoid the pitfalls.
Thanks to the quality cars manufactors have put out over the years, a well-maintained car should remain on average reliable for atleast 10 years and 100,000 miles. The U.S. Department of Transportation reported that the average life span all vehicles is 128,500 miles. According to surveys conducted, on average, a consumer trades in or sells a car when it is only four and a half years old with just 41,000 miles on the odometer. Which means that a most used cars out there have more than half their life left in them! Also when you buy a used car expensive head units, speakers, power assists, convenience options, and other equitment are less a factor in the resale price, compared to a new car with the same features.
Consumers Reports publishes excellent information on used cars, they include all of the expected maintenance and repair information. Now your at a point where you want to narrow your search for a particular type of vehicle to one or a few.
To check the recall record of any vehicle, all you need to do is call the U.S. Department of Transportation Auto Safety Hotline at (800) 424-9393. They will tell you if a car model has ever been recalled before and send you all available information concerning that recall. You could also visit alldata.tsb.com for the same recall information and other technical information about the vehicle.
Its very important that you know how much the car your looking at is worth. To find out the standard book value of the vehicle check the N.A.D.A. (National Automotive Dealers Association) Official Used Car Guide, for the book value on your trade-in. You can find the Official Used Car Guide at public libraries, credit unions, and banks. The N.A.D.A. updates their car guide every month, so do not hold onto an old copy for to long. Also, pick up a copy of the newspaper and check the classifieds section for the type of vehicle you want. Use this to help you get a feel of how much you want to spend on the vehicle and what you feel is a fair price.
Now that you know how much you need, now you will need financing and insurance. Do not automatically accept the dealer financing, check with your bank and credit unions to compare the charges. Also while you at the bank consider preapproved credit, which might help you get the price you want and your car the same day if your going to buy through a dealership. Now your going to want to call your insurance company, and get a quote for the vehicle you want to purchase. Now figure out if you can afford both your car payments, your insurance payments, and a little extra put aside for repairs. Check your local Better Business Bureau, Consumer Affairs Office, and the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (1-800-435-7352) for information on local automobile dealerships. Don't be afraid to make sure the dealers are licensed by the Division of Motor Vehicles. Ask to what professional associations they belong (Florida Independent Automobile Dealers Association, Chamber of Commerce, etc.). How long has the dealership been in business?
Now you are ready to find one of the many available sources for automobiles, equiped with the knowledge of a fair price you are now protected from over-valued cars. Good Luck.
Thanks to the quality cars manufactors have put out over the years, a well-maintained car should remain on average reliable for atleast 10 years and 100,000 miles. The U.S. Department of Transportation reported that the average life span all vehicles is 128,500 miles. According to surveys conducted, on average, a consumer trades in or sells a car when it is only four and a half years old with just 41,000 miles on the odometer. Which means that a most used cars out there have more than half their life left in them! Also when you buy a used car expensive head units, speakers, power assists, convenience options, and other equitment are less a factor in the resale price, compared to a new car with the same features.
Consumers Reports publishes excellent information on used cars, they include all of the expected maintenance and repair information. Now your at a point where you want to narrow your search for a particular type of vehicle to one or a few.
To check the recall record of any vehicle, all you need to do is call the U.S. Department of Transportation Auto Safety Hotline at (800) 424-9393. They will tell you if a car model has ever been recalled before and send you all available information concerning that recall. You could also visit alldata.tsb.com for the same recall information and other technical information about the vehicle.
Its very important that you know how much the car your looking at is worth. To find out the standard book value of the vehicle check the N.A.D.A. (National Automotive Dealers Association) Official Used Car Guide, for the book value on your trade-in. You can find the Official Used Car Guide at public libraries, credit unions, and banks. The N.A.D.A. updates their car guide every month, so do not hold onto an old copy for to long. Also, pick up a copy of the newspaper and check the classifieds section for the type of vehicle you want. Use this to help you get a feel of how much you want to spend on the vehicle and what you feel is a fair price.
Now that you know how much you need, now you will need financing and insurance. Do not automatically accept the dealer financing, check with your bank and credit unions to compare the charges. Also while you at the bank consider preapproved credit, which might help you get the price you want and your car the same day if your going to buy through a dealership. Now your going to want to call your insurance company, and get a quote for the vehicle you want to purchase. Now figure out if you can afford both your car payments, your insurance payments, and a little extra put aside for repairs. Check your local Better Business Bureau, Consumer Affairs Office, and the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (1-800-435-7352) for information on local automobile dealerships. Don't be afraid to make sure the dealers are licensed by the Division of Motor Vehicles. Ask to what professional associations they belong (Florida Independent Automobile Dealers Association, Chamber of Commerce, etc.). How long has the dealership been in business?
Now you are ready to find one of the many available sources for automobiles, equiped with the knowledge of a fair price you are now protected from over-valued cars. Good Luck.
Repair Costs Minimal With an Extended Car Warranty
As the owner of a small business with a fleet of vehicles, I have personally purchased over 20 vehicles in the last two years. That being said, my company always purchases an extended warranty for the vehicles we purchase.
We do this regardless of whether the vehicle is new or used and we understand the importance of extended car warranties. As fate would have it, when the power windows went out on one vehicle, which would have cost over $2,500 to repair, we were in a cash flow crunch. Had it not been for the extended warranty covering the entire expense, we would have had to put off the repair for several weeks.
The average cost of an extended warranty is around $1,500. This varies greatly from company to company and is based on the number of years of coverage and the type of coverage selected. One of the most important features to warranty is the electrical system.
This covers everything from the power locks and windows to the sensors and brains of the engine. These components are arguably the most expensive based not only on the individual parts but also on the labor charged to replace them.
Fortunately for me, our company has only had to use the warranty for a few repairs. That being said the total value of the repairs covered more the compensated for the cost of all the extended warranties purchased. Furthermore, it’s nice to know we’re covered should something unforeseen happen.
We do this regardless of whether the vehicle is new or used and we understand the importance of extended car warranties. As fate would have it, when the power windows went out on one vehicle, which would have cost over $2,500 to repair, we were in a cash flow crunch. Had it not been for the extended warranty covering the entire expense, we would have had to put off the repair for several weeks.
The average cost of an extended warranty is around $1,500. This varies greatly from company to company and is based on the number of years of coverage and the type of coverage selected. One of the most important features to warranty is the electrical system.
This covers everything from the power locks and windows to the sensors and brains of the engine. These components are arguably the most expensive based not only on the individual parts but also on the labor charged to replace them.
Fortunately for me, our company has only had to use the warranty for a few repairs. That being said the total value of the repairs covered more the compensated for the cost of all the extended warranties purchased. Furthermore, it’s nice to know we’re covered should something unforeseen happen.
Want To Donate A Car?
The internet has been such a blessing in so many ways to those that have taken the plunge and accepted the fact that it is the future and have jumped on board and started using it to their advantage such as people wanting to donate cars online. There are so many ways that it brings all of the necessary services that you normally would have to either take a personal day to take care of during the work day and/or drive across town or the country to accomplish without on the internet capabilities.
So what are some of the advantage of online car donating? Well, for one thing there is the convenience of donating in your own home and ability to communicate easily with the charity that only comes with continuous connectivity that you get with the World Wide Web. But isn’t it too risky to make such a large donation over the internet, especially with all of the fraudulent charity activity in the world today? This is a real concern that many people have, and one that I want to address as well as offer many offsetting bonuses of choosing to “donate cars on the internet.”
The question then is, “is the risk of making the donation on the internet less than the benefits that you gain?” My answer is a quick and resounding YES! Let me first dispel the myth that the internet lacks the safety and security necessary to exchange private financial information that you need to purchase something on the internet as serious as a vehicle. You must understand now that the technology is presently online to insure that you can do business including the necessary exchange of sensitive information over the internet. So there is really no difference in security whether you choose to donate car off the lot or on the internet.
What then are the advantages of choosing to donate car via the internet that supersede the risk of not being able to personally check the car and see it with your own two eyes? Well there is the amazingly powerful advantage of searching for the right charity which saves you time and therefore money and lots of it. There are also systems set up to on the internet reduce fraud and cheating that are not necessarily available when buying cars, especially from private donators. There are licenses that certify the credibility of the charity. There are also systems set up that hold charities accountable for misinformation, and it is now becoming more and more popular to offer receipts which official tax credit numbers.
So what are some of the advantage of online car donating? Well, for one thing there is the convenience of donating in your own home and ability to communicate easily with the charity that only comes with continuous connectivity that you get with the World Wide Web. But isn’t it too risky to make such a large donation over the internet, especially with all of the fraudulent charity activity in the world today? This is a real concern that many people have, and one that I want to address as well as offer many offsetting bonuses of choosing to “donate cars on the internet.”
The question then is, “is the risk of making the donation on the internet less than the benefits that you gain?” My answer is a quick and resounding YES! Let me first dispel the myth that the internet lacks the safety and security necessary to exchange private financial information that you need to purchase something on the internet as serious as a vehicle. You must understand now that the technology is presently online to insure that you can do business including the necessary exchange of sensitive information over the internet. So there is really no difference in security whether you choose to donate car off the lot or on the internet.
What then are the advantages of choosing to donate car via the internet that supersede the risk of not being able to personally check the car and see it with your own two eyes? Well there is the amazingly powerful advantage of searching for the right charity which saves you time and therefore money and lots of it. There are also systems set up to on the internet reduce fraud and cheating that are not necessarily available when buying cars, especially from private donators. There are licenses that certify the credibility of the charity. There are also systems set up that hold charities accountable for misinformation, and it is now becoming more and more popular to offer receipts which official tax credit numbers.
Why Buy Used Japanese Cars?
Considering the growing popularity of used Japanese cars, the most pertinent question that arises is, "Why do people have preference for used Japanese cars?" One of the foremost reasons for favoring Japanese used cars is that since innumerable years, Japan has been a leader in car manufacturing. Japanese cars as Toyota, Nissan, Honda, Mitsubishi, Suzuki and Mazda are famous throughout the world for their excellence, value and steadfastness.
Another reason for opting for Japanese used car is the wide assortment of car models that are available for selection, and almost all of them come with ultra-advanced features such as power steering, air bags, air conditioning, power windows and high performance engine.
One more reason why buying used Japanese cars is worthwhile is that they are maintained in excellent condition, both cosmetically and mechanically. World-class public transportation system, heavy traffic conditions, high toll and parking fees, and stringent rules of Japanese government with regards to proper maintenance of car safety system are some primary reasons why Japanese cars are used infrequently, and hence, are technically sound.
Where to Buy Japanese Used Cars?
Once, you're convinced that Japanese used cars are the best; the primary question that impinges your mind is, "Where to buy used Japanese cars from?" There are several dealers and exporters who supply Japanese used cars, you can easily purchase your used Japanese car from them. However, in reality all these people get the used cars from major auction houses.
These auction houses get used Japanese cars from two main sources. Firstly, from Kaitori Shop, which concentrate on purchasing cars from individuals who sell their Japanese used or new cars to fulfill their urgent monetary needs, and secondly, from car dealers, who trade in used Japanese car for a new model. Thus, auction houses have a wide variety of used Japanese cars, and all of them are available at very low prices to professional buyers such as dealers and exporters. Hence, it would be a better proposition to buy your used Japanese car directly from such auction houses rather than obtain it from intermediate dealers and exporters.
However, you cannot purchase Japanese used cars directly from auctions because you cannot become a member of these auction houses. Only used car dealers and exporters, who have a license to do business in used cars, can apply for the membership. Furthermore, there are several strict contract terms that have to be followed when applying for the membership. Nevertheless, there are several used car exporters as www.auctiondirectjapan.com, who provide "Auction Agent" service, that is, purchase Japanese used cars from auctions or from One Price (for sale at fixed wholesale price, until the next auctions). They also handle all the necessary procedure for shipping Japanese used cars.
How to Inspect the Condition of Used Japanese Cars?
When you buy used Japanese cars from online auction houses, using an "Auction Agent", you would neither get a chance to inspect your Japanese used car from close quarters nor you would have the privilege to test drive the used car before purchasing it. Hence, to know more about the condition of the car, you would have to depend solely upon the 'Auction-Sheet', which is nothing, but a car evaluation sheet prepared by the auction house.
Although all auction houses have different criteria for measuring the condition of the Japanese used cars, but some parameters are the same. For instance, they allocate grades 2 to 5 or 6 to S for the condition of car exteriors, and grades A to C for the state of car interiors.
Apart from external and internal condition, mileage is the next most crucial factor that used car buyers' worry about. The auction houses take care of this aspect. The seller is compelled to divulge the correct mileage. If the owner rolls back the mileage to hide the true figures, he is severely penalized by the auction house.
Another worrisome aspect related to Japanese used cars is the accident record. Even though it is difficult to ascertain this fact, but the auction houses have the ways and means to extract the truth, and the details are given in the auction sheet.
How to Import Japanese Used Cars?
Most used car buyers hold the opinion that it is usually difficult to import used Japanese car. Nonetheless, importing used cars from Japan is not at all difficult if you know the correct process. Here is a glimpse of the entire procedure that is put into practice while importing Japanese used cars.
1. Find out details about every law dealing with import of foreign cars in your country.
2. If you haven't found the right used Japanese car as yet, then you would have to send a request to the dealer to find the right car for you first.
3. Before giving a confirmation to the exporter/dealer (Auction Agent) to buy the used car, you should (1) check recent market price of your favorite car, which is usually provided by Japanese used car exporter or dealer (Auction Agent); (2) read the auction sheet very carefully; and (3) decide your budget to bid from auctions or purchase from One Price.
4. The next step is to make the payment. Before issuing the check, you should verify the authenticity of the exporter/dealer. This can be done in two ways: (1) by getting the company registration number and address confirmed at Japanese embassy in your country, (2) by checking if your exporter is a member of JUMVEA (Japan Used Motor Vehicle Exporter Association), which is the most reputable organization in the Japanese used car export industry, and is officially accredited by Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry of Japanese Government.
5. On arrival of the used car in your country, you would have to reproduce the documents that the exporter/dealer has sent to you. Thereafter, you would have to complete a few official procedures as paying import tax, getting your Japanese used car tested and insured etc. Once, you do that, you can drive your used Japanese car home.
Another reason for opting for Japanese used car is the wide assortment of car models that are available for selection, and almost all of them come with ultra-advanced features such as power steering, air bags, air conditioning, power windows and high performance engine.
One more reason why buying used Japanese cars is worthwhile is that they are maintained in excellent condition, both cosmetically and mechanically. World-class public transportation system, heavy traffic conditions, high toll and parking fees, and stringent rules of Japanese government with regards to proper maintenance of car safety system are some primary reasons why Japanese cars are used infrequently, and hence, are technically sound.
Where to Buy Japanese Used Cars?
Once, you're convinced that Japanese used cars are the best; the primary question that impinges your mind is, "Where to buy used Japanese cars from?" There are several dealers and exporters who supply Japanese used cars, you can easily purchase your used Japanese car from them. However, in reality all these people get the used cars from major auction houses.
These auction houses get used Japanese cars from two main sources. Firstly, from Kaitori Shop, which concentrate on purchasing cars from individuals who sell their Japanese used or new cars to fulfill their urgent monetary needs, and secondly, from car dealers, who trade in used Japanese car for a new model. Thus, auction houses have a wide variety of used Japanese cars, and all of them are available at very low prices to professional buyers such as dealers and exporters. Hence, it would be a better proposition to buy your used Japanese car directly from such auction houses rather than obtain it from intermediate dealers and exporters.
However, you cannot purchase Japanese used cars directly from auctions because you cannot become a member of these auction houses. Only used car dealers and exporters, who have a license to do business in used cars, can apply for the membership. Furthermore, there are several strict contract terms that have to be followed when applying for the membership. Nevertheless, there are several used car exporters as www.auctiondirectjapan.com, who provide "Auction Agent" service, that is, purchase Japanese used cars from auctions or from One Price (for sale at fixed wholesale price, until the next auctions). They also handle all the necessary procedure for shipping Japanese used cars.
How to Inspect the Condition of Used Japanese Cars?
When you buy used Japanese cars from online auction houses, using an "Auction Agent", you would neither get a chance to inspect your Japanese used car from close quarters nor you would have the privilege to test drive the used car before purchasing it. Hence, to know more about the condition of the car, you would have to depend solely upon the 'Auction-Sheet', which is nothing, but a car evaluation sheet prepared by the auction house.
Although all auction houses have different criteria for measuring the condition of the Japanese used cars, but some parameters are the same. For instance, they allocate grades 2 to 5 or 6 to S for the condition of car exteriors, and grades A to C for the state of car interiors.
Apart from external and internal condition, mileage is the next most crucial factor that used car buyers' worry about. The auction houses take care of this aspect. The seller is compelled to divulge the correct mileage. If the owner rolls back the mileage to hide the true figures, he is severely penalized by the auction house.
Another worrisome aspect related to Japanese used cars is the accident record. Even though it is difficult to ascertain this fact, but the auction houses have the ways and means to extract the truth, and the details are given in the auction sheet.
How to Import Japanese Used Cars?
Most used car buyers hold the opinion that it is usually difficult to import used Japanese car. Nonetheless, importing used cars from Japan is not at all difficult if you know the correct process. Here is a glimpse of the entire procedure that is put into practice while importing Japanese used cars.
1. Find out details about every law dealing with import of foreign cars in your country.
2. If you haven't found the right used Japanese car as yet, then you would have to send a request to the dealer to find the right car for you first.
3. Before giving a confirmation to the exporter/dealer (Auction Agent) to buy the used car, you should (1) check recent market price of your favorite car, which is usually provided by Japanese used car exporter or dealer (Auction Agent); (2) read the auction sheet very carefully; and (3) decide your budget to bid from auctions or purchase from One Price.
4. The next step is to make the payment. Before issuing the check, you should verify the authenticity of the exporter/dealer. This can be done in two ways: (1) by getting the company registration number and address confirmed at Japanese embassy in your country, (2) by checking if your exporter is a member of JUMVEA (Japan Used Motor Vehicle Exporter Association), which is the most reputable organization in the Japanese used car export industry, and is officially accredited by Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry of Japanese Government.
5. On arrival of the used car in your country, you would have to reproduce the documents that the exporter/dealer has sent to you. Thereafter, you would have to complete a few official procedures as paying import tax, getting your Japanese used car tested and insured etc. Once, you do that, you can drive your used Japanese car home.
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