The good, the bad, and the ugly about luxury cars

If a $20,000 car is what you got, then a $30,000 car would be better and a $40,000 car ideal, right? The answer to that is the one you all know and love: it depends. The Good Let’s start with the obvious: you’re movin on up and letting the world know it, whether or not it’s true. That means more respect, better valet treatment, more dates. Luckily, in most cases there’s some truth to back up the image. Despite the increasing availability of features on lower-end cars these days, luxury cars still live up to their name by offering materials that look and feel better (i.e. real wood in the dash, real aluminum instead of painted plastic), soft leather (instead of hard leather, or leather mixed with vinyl), better sound insulation – all standard. Luxury cars are also held to a higher standard of performance with more cylinders, better brakes and suspensions, and best of all, often trade up from plain front-wheel-drive layouts to rear-wheel-drive, making driving more interesting. Who wouldn’t want their commute to be cozier and more fun at the same time? As a bonus, the owning experience will likely be richer all the way through, thanks to more courteous sales/service and a longer warranty. The Bad That stuff costs money. Stepping up from a compact-sized car (say, a Mazda 3) to a like-sized luxury car (say, a BMW 3-series) takes a cool dozen grand. Worse, the increase grows exponential as you ascend in the range: from a Honda Accord to an Acura RL takes $25,000, and from a Toyota Avalon to a BMW 750i takes an extra $40,000. In other words, the cost of one big Bimmer is enough for two Avalons and change. And don’t forget maintenance costs; ever seen the price of BMW parts? The Ugly It used to just be a matter of swallowing the price and writing the check, but many luxury makes have felt the need to prove the worth of their cars by confusing the hell out of the drivers. First it was Mercedes’ COMAND. Then it was BMW’s iDrive – by far the worst of the bunch – and finally Audi’s MultiMedia Interface. To a lesser degree, heavy-handed electronics and interfaces have crept into Japanese, American, and British luxury cars as well. What good is that 14-speaker stereo if you have to stop and look up in the manual how to change the station? Some of these electronics have also proven to be quite troublesome, causing the average reliability rankings of their parent companies to nosedive. Nothing luxurious about that. But if you have the patience and tolerance, the world’s best cars are waiting for you. At a price.

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Used Car Prices - Find The Best Deal

Used car prices vary according to demand. When dealers have a good stock of cars that have been traded in against new models you might expect used car prices to fall. The prices of used cars is generally at a maximum at the same time as the prices of new cars, at the beginning of the year or of any new, date specific registration period. This is because demand is at a maximum at the same time as supply is maximized. Used car prices are subject to much bigger variations than new cars. The price charged will depend on the price the dealer has paid for the car as trade-in, how much work is needed on the car and the dealer's profit mark-up. Dealers in fancy showrooms in the expensive part of town have higher overheads and therefore a higher mark-up. Your best chance of a good deal is to find a dealer who has a good supply of the model you are interested in. Shop around, because dealers have their favorite cars and these are priced higher than others. You want a dealer who hates the model that you want to buy. This dealer will set a lower price to sell the car more quickly. You will also pay a higher price for any given make of used car if you buy from a main dealer. The main dealer knows that you are going there because you want that make and model, so they can charge you more for it. If there has been a new model released, then the price for the older and visually dated model will plummet. Yet that model will not have the teething problems that any new car has. It is never a good idea to buy a car, either new or used that was produced in the first 6 - 12 months of a new model.

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How to Negotiate with a Jersey City Used Car Dealer

How to Negotiate with a Jersey City Used Car Dealer A large number of individuals make the decision to purchase a used vehicle instead of a new one. The decision to purchase used is often because a quality used vehicle can be obtained for a fairly low price. Did you know that it is even possible to purchase a used vehicle for less than the asking price? This is done by negotiating with a car dealer or sales representative. If you are interested in learning how to negotiate your next used car purchase from a Jersey City used car dealer continue to read on for some helpful negotiating tips. The best way to negotiate a price on a used vehicle is by knowing exactly how much money the vehicle is worth. This information can be obtained it two ways. A common way to obtain information on a certain vehicle is by using the internet. The internet will allow you to research a particular car make and model. You can also visit the website of the car maker to obtain more information. Purchasing a Kelley Blue Book is another way to obtain vehicle pricing information. This book is used as a guideline for determining the value of a new or used vehicle. The Kelley Blue Book can also be found online; however, having an actual book in your hand when visiting a Jersey City used car dealer can save you time. When speaking with a sales representative at a Jersey City used car dealer you should also ask them about the invoice price on a vehicle. The invoice price is how much money they had to spend to acquire the vehicle. Many new car dealerships provide proof of the invoice cost; however, it may be hard to prove the exact purchase price on a used vehicle. You should use this information to your advantage, but be careful with automatically accepting what a dealer says without proof. Comparing the purchase price and the asking price of a vehicle will allow you to determine how much of a profit a Jersey City used car dealer is making on the vehicle. Be cautious of an large difference because it is often a sign that a dealership is not working in the best interest of the customer. Just about all new and used car dealerships will take vehicle trade-ins. If you are planning on trading in your existing vehicle it can also be used as a negotiating tool. When taking your vehicle to a dealership the Kelley Blue Book will come in handy again. If the used car dealership gives you a low quote on your vehicle be sure to speak your mind. There are a large number of new car owners who let their old vehicles slip away for way less money then they should. If your vehicle is in good condition and the Kelley Blue Book states a higher trade-in value, do not be afraid to show the book to a sales representative. If you think that you can get more for your trade in then go visit another dealership. Negotiating and comparing prices are the two most effective ways for car buyers to obtain a great vehicle from a Jersey City used car dealer for a discounted price. By trying to negotiate the worst that could happen is that you will be told no. Isn’t it at least worth a try?

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Great Parts For The Racing Enthusiast!

You are on your final lap of what has been an adventurous race filled with mayhem, mishaps, and a near misstep that could have cost you dearly. The two top drivers are within reach as you navigate the track’s final turn. Do you risk it? Will you swing over to the left lane and pass them both or settle for a strong third place finish instead? Certainly, this “close, but no cigar” finish would be a moral victory for some drivers, but not for you. Suddenly, you swing your wheels to the left, press the pedal to the metal and pass driver #2 and edge just ahead of driver #1 as the checkered flag waves down before you. You win the race by mere inches because of the confidence you have in your car.

Oh, were we all so confident in our rides! You may not be a race car driver, but if you value performance then you know that keeping your car well maintained is essential toward ensuring a safe and fun ride every time. Importantly, upgrading your car to include premium performance parts is a necessity, so let’s take a look at what racing enthusiasts the world over are doing to achieve maximum control.

What good is a performance car if it doesn’t “speak” performance? Specifically, the tone of your vehicle’s exhaust system should tell everyone that your car has the power to go along with its performance. That is why choosy drivers are selecting performance Remus exhaust systems for their rides. A Remus exhaust system is imported from Germany and can be found on many Mercedes, Mini, Volkswagen, and BMW cars. In America, Jeep and Ford owners have learned that the stainless steel and aluminum components that go into every Remus exhaust system can ensure a long life, better performance, and a great tone. Remus backs up their product with an unlimited 3 year warranty.

A great set of shocks on every vehicle is necessary and all the more so if you put your car through the paces. Every single turn and every single lift in the road can be navigated with confidence if your car has the right shocks or struts to ensure maximum control. KYB has been the original equipment shock for more manufacturers worldwide then any other brand for many years now. Enthusiasts select KYB performance shocks for maximum damping and greater tolerances every time. No brand can possibly match KYB in popularity and for offering the best bang for the buck.

A Turbonetics intercooler can give your ride more power and torque without an adverse impact on engine endurance. As a bolt on turbo system, Turbonetics can quickly provide more power, use less fuel, and is available on a variety of gasoline and diesel applications. Drivers of the Toyota Supra, select full size Chevy pick ups, and owners of the Subaru Impreza have all learned that a Turbonetics turbocooler can maximize power and performance quickly without a big time loss in downtime.

Yes, you may never compete in a NASCAR race or qualify for the Indy 500, however that doesn’t mean you can’t maximize your ride’s performance. Install high quality and cost effective car parts from the Race Pages wholesale store today to achieve that race car edge.

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Finding a Quality Newark Used Car Dealer

Finding a Quality Newark Used Car Dealer

Each day there are a large number of individuals who make the decision to purchase a new or used vehicle. For residents who live in or around the Newark, New Jersey area there are a large number of new and used car dealers to choose from.

Finding a quality and reputable Newark used car dealer is possible; however, it may take some time and research. There are unfortunately used car dealerships that take advantage of unsuspecting customers. This is a perfect example why researching a Newark used car dealer before purchasing a vehicle is recommended. Although it is likely that you are dealing with a legitimate company it is still a good idea to verify it.

There are a number of ways to find a quality Newark used car dealer. One of the easiest ways to do so is by asking your friends, family, or coworkers. There is a good chance that someone that you know has recently purchased a new or used vehicle. The majority of individuals would be more than happy to tell you about their car dealer experiences. Their advice could introduce you to a quality Newark used car dealer or even prevent you from doing business with a bad one.

Another popular way to research and learn about a Newark used car dealer is by using the internet. You can use the internet to look through business directories, which often include multiple car dealers. You can also use the internet to determine the quality of service that a car dealer may have. It is common for business directories or websites to allow guests to review a business or service that they have used. You should use these reviews the same way you would use a review from a friend.

You can also search for an area Newark used car dealer by using a Newark phone book. Used car dealers can typically be found in the business directly of a phone book, commonly referred to as the yellow pages. Most phone books will separate the new and used car dealers, making your search easier. If you live outside the Newark area you can use the internet to obtain an online phone book.

Visiting a number of car dealers may also help you find a quality Newark used car dealer. By actually visiting the dealer lot you will be able to view their vehicle selection. If you do not want to be rushed or approached by a sales representative you may want to consider visiting the dealership after their normal business hours. Visiting a dealer in the evening, late night, or early morning will allow you to review vehicles without being disturbed. Although reviewing prospective cars without an interruption may sound nice you should also speak to a sales representative. Speaking to the sales staff will give you an idea of the respect and honestly that a Newark used car dealer has. A car dealer with a rude or inappropriate sales staff does not deserve your money.

There are a large number of quality used car dealers in the Newark area. If you are interested in purchasing a used car, finding and doing business with a quality Newark used car dealer can benefit you in a number of ways.

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Finding a Quality New York Used Car Dealership

Finding a Quality New York Used Car Dealership

When an individual is in need of a new vehicle many tend to purchase used. Used vehicles are popular because many quality used vehicles can be purchased for a great price.

There are a lot of helpful tips to help individuals seeking a used vehicle find a quality used car dealership. New York literally has an unlimited number of used car dealerships. It could take a number of weeks for a potential car buyer to visit all of the used car dealerships located in the New York area. Since the average car buyer does not have that much time there are a number of ways to find and visit only quality used car dealerships in the New York area. Not only will following these tips help you save time, but it may also prevent you from doing business with a less than trustworthy used car dealership. New York, like all other cities and states, do have their number of untrustworthy car dealerships.

You can begin by searching the internet. The internet is full of online phone books and business directories. Each of these places may allow internet users to post a comment or review a business that they have used in the past. This information can be extremely helpful to you when you are searching for a used car dealership. New York phone books and business directories can easily be obtained through completing a standard internet search.

The internet can also be used to visit the website of any New York car dealerships that have a company website. Although a legitimate used car dealership may not have a company website for a good reason, having a company website looks professional and may be the sign of an experienced dealer. It is not uncommon for many car dealerships to list information or even have pictures of the used vehicles that they currently have in stock. This information can be extremely valuable to you. You can search for a used car dealership’s website by typing their dealership name into a search engine. The easier way to find a company website would be to visit an online phone book or business directory that provides the link next to the company contact information.

You can also ask any of your friends, family, or coworkers for information or feedback on a used car dealership. New York is large area and it is likely that someone that you know or they know may have recently purchased a vehicle. Everyone usually discusses a big decision like purchasing a new vehicle; therefore, it was more than likely that positive or negative car dealership feedback has been talked about amongst individuals that you know.

Buying a new or used vehicle is an important step. You do not want to put yourself at risk for being scammed or taken advantage over. Take your time to fully research and understand a used car dealership. New York has large number of quality used car dealerships. You should just make sure you are finding and doing business with the right one.

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Benefits of Buying a Vehicle from a Brunswick Used Car Dealer

Benefits of Buying a Vehicle from a Brunswick Used Car Dealer

Each day a large number of individuals purchase a used vehicle. If you live in or around the Brunswick area there are numerous benefits to purchasing your vehicle from a Brunswick used car dealer.

One of the best reasons for buying a used vehicle from a Brunswick used car dealer is to support the local economy. In a world that loves internet shopping some of the businesses in your area may be seeing a decrease in sales. This sales decrease can sometimes be seen in car dealerships as well. Although you may not think that purchasing a vehicle from a local Brunswick used car dealer will make a difference it actually will. Without profits many businesses may have to cut back on the number of employees that it has on staff. Potential cut backs may cost your friend, your neighbor, or even yourself jobs.

Purchasing a vehicle from a local Brunswick used car dealer will also work to your advantage if something were to happen to your vehicle. Providing warranty or maintenance plans are completely optional to all used car dealers; however, there are some that do. Even if your vehicle does not come with a warranty or maintenance plan many buyers are given small discounts for having repairs completed at the dealership where the vehicle was purchased from. Once again, even if you have to pay for the repairs you will still be giving back to your community by having the service performed locally.

In addition to potentially cheaper maintenance, if you purchase your vehicle locally you will be closer to the dealership. This will help you in a number of ways. If you have to return to the dealer for additional work or meetings you will not have to travel far. This will not only be convenient, but it can save you time and valuable gas money. With a large number of quality Brunswick used car dealers in the area there is really no need to travel a long distance in search of a used vehicle.

If you are interested in purchasing your next used vehicle from a Brunswick used car dealer you will need to find one to visit. There are a number of ways that you can learn about the car dealerships in the Brunswick area. You can learn about used car dealerships through word-of-mouth. It is likely that at least one person you that know will have recently purchased a vehicle at one time or another. You should ask them where they purchased their vehicle from and if they were satisfied with the service that they received. You may also use a local Brunswick phone book or the internet to learn about used car dealerships in the area and where they are located.

If you purchase your next used vehicle from an area Brunswick used car dealer you will not only be getting a vehicle, but helping your local economy at the same time. If you are planning on purchasing a vehicle why shop somewhere else when what you need is already located in your own community.

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Auto trends

Fads come and go, sometimes on a whim, other times because of outside forces. Here at the halfway point of the new millennium’s first decade, car culture has sure taken some interesting turns.

Those of you who innocently took a test drive of a plain-Jane Nissan Altima when it was new in 2002, floored it, and nearly sprained your necks upon discovery of 240 horsepower, may have suspected that the standards of speed had risen a tad since the 90s. Turns out that was only the beginning. Nowadays, the Volkswagen Passat raised that same family car bar to an excessive 280 horsepower. We have little $30,000 Mitsubishis that can leave Camaros for dead. The 500-horsepower Dodge Viper suddenly seems ordinary, and the once-acclaimed Acura NSX is a joke. Whether or not you’re a speed freak, there are two trickle-down benefits: the minimum standard of horsepower has risen from 55 (Geo Metro) to 103, and very few cars in any segment are truly underpowered anymore. Not a bad development.

Cars just won’t stop growing. Every redesign has to be bigger than the last one; the new Toyota RAV4 is 14 inches longer than the last, and current Civics now dwarf Accords of years past. It’s an inevitable force of marketing; no one wants to pay the same money for less car, right? Bigger also means heavier; our cars pack more pounds than ever.

And there’s no rule that contradictory trends can’t coexist. Apparently Americans expect their cars to compete with the speed of sound while also using less gas than their walking shoes. The Toyota Prius hybrid heads into its third year with unsatisfied demand, a long line, and a price premium. All this despite an ample supply of the perfectly serviceable Corolla at the same dealers. No automaker wants to be caught with their pants down, and all are rushing to market with a hybrid, even if it means using systems developed by competitors (Nissan’s Altima will use Toyota hardware).

We seem to want our cars with more stuff and more personality. The 90s banality in our styling is gone, even on the most banal cars like the Accord and Camry. And notice how almost every car has power windows and locks standard, and how even the Kia Rio comes with six airbags and a powerful stereo. Is it any wonder that the average car now costs $28,000?

Speaking of “cars”, we may be moving toward the day when that word will again apply as a general term. SUVs are suddenly for the foolish. They always have been, but now everyone seems to know it, too. Ford’s Explorer and Expedition are going down the drain, and the Excursion has already expired. The bigger the SUV, the bigger the sales drop. Little cars are selling better than ever, even old-timers like the Sentra and Neon.

Lastly, we’re going foreign, and fast. The Big Three’s market share was 60% at the early part of this decade; that will stand at or below 50% by the end of it. This is hardly a new trend, but its recent acceleration is alarming. One thing for sure is that in terms of the players, the market has matured. Only two major automakers set up American bases in the 90s (Kia and Daewoo), and the 2000s have brought none.

Cars can’t get bigger or faster forever, yet no one can stand still. Hybrids are hot, but the long-term experiences remain to be seen. What will become of all this automotive craziness? Check back in ten years.

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