How Fast Does Your Car Go?

Given money to spend and a world of options when selecting a car, every car enthusiast goes for one option—getting a sports car. In the world of sports cars, however, there stands the basic criteria of speed, speed, speed, and, well, speed.

The fastest sports car according to various critics is the 1994 Dauer 962 LeMans, with acceleration speed of 2.6 seconds from 0 to 60 mph. The fastest Ferrari car is the 2002 Ferrari ENZO, and this one can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph at breakneck speed of 3.5 seconds. Other fast cars include a Chevrolet, a Dodge, a LeBlanc, a Renault, an Audi, and a Corvette, all of which have acceleration speeds of not more than 2.9 seconds from 0 to 60 mph.

Now, the question that begs answering is: what makes a fast sports car?

While stylistics make for a very good standard when getting a sports car, there’s more to the sleekness than just style. The very sleek and streamlined designs of these fast sports cars actually contribute to fantastic aerodynamics—making it much easier to drive the car fast without worrying about air resistance, air pressure, etc. In effect, the hot and sexy car design actually makes for more than aesthetics, but gives a boost to the speed and performance of the car.

Another feature that contributes to the speed of the car is its reduced weight. It’s evident in the reduced cargo capacity of a sports car. Luckily, this isn’t much of an issue with sports car enthusiasts. Related to cargo capacity and reduced weight is the fact that some sports cars may have smaller seating capacities, and usually are characterized by firmer, tighter rides, compared to the more spacious and comfortable rides offered by sports utility vehicles or sedans.

A last consideration in speed, however, is its general dynamics which include handling and drag when driving. A sports car has very little value if it cannot sustain its straight-line speeds when driving in tight curbs and ends up crushed after it hit a dead end. It is for this precise reason that even the fastest sports cars are usually rear-wheel driven rather than front-wheel driven, because of the fact that the rear-wheel drive provides greater traction and allows for the weight to be distributed evenly as the car makes a turn.

While there’s more to a sports car than just speed, it also doesn’t hurt that your sports car is fast. After all, the 1994 Dauer 962 LeMans is prized precisely because it rises above the speeds of every other fast sports car.

When Style Meets Performance: Exotic Cars 101

Searching for a quality luxury car will inevitably bring anyone to the rather apt adjective, “exotic”. Exotic food or exotic beauty may be more clearly defined, but what really makes for an exotic sports car?

Sleek and Elegant Design

Part of what makes an exotic sports car is the vehicles’ streamlined, sleek, and smooth designs, all of which serve functional purposes to the overall performance of the car albeit being so highly aesthetically pleasing.

Indeed, even exotic sports car makers know emphasis that car enthusiasts and racers put on design per se. After all, owning an exotic sports car in contrast to owning a car is, in itself, a status symbol. This status is endowed not only by the make of the car but also the style and visual appeal.

In fact, companies like Ferrari even employ design houses to come up with their car designs. Design powerhouse Pininfarina, for example, designed the 2002 Ferrari ENZO.

Breakneck Speeds

While design is one of the considerations of many car enthusiasts, the primary characteristic that by-far differentiates a sports car from the rest is its acceleration and maintainable road speed. When it comes to sports cars, it’s all a matter of speed, speed, and more speed. A pretty car won’t cut it if it cannot deliver the exhilarating ride that is expected of every sports car.

Exotic cars are continually challenging the rate at which a car can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph. Designs are beginning to be shaped from the engineering needs of the car, in order to suitably deliver a new record speed. As of the moment, the 1994 Dauer 962 LeMans continues to reign with 2.6 seconds. However, with the likes of the 2002 Ferrari ENZO being designed based on the specifications of making a fast car, expect faster sports cars in the near future.

One-in-a-Million

Indeed, exotic sports cars aren’t the type that mass produced and you can’t but then “off-the-lot”. Part of its exotic appeal is the fact that you can only have a certain number of models made available for sale. The rarer and more difficult to acquire, the greater a car’s exotic value.

It’s in the Name

Most cars don’t need visualization to be called exotic, they just are. These would include your cult sports car classics—your Porsche, your Ferrari, your Lamborghini.

While an ‘exotic sports car’ may be subjectively defined over a huge stratum, it’s safe to believe that these qualities are more or less held in commonality by any definition. At any rate, one look at a car may be enough to give you a clue.

Customize It!

When we talk about sports cars, we imagine models from Jaguar, Porsche, Chevrolet, Lexus, Cadillac and Pontiac. But sports cars can be custom-made too! Quality replicas, as most people call them, can pass for those really nifty sports cars parading along a ritzy street.

What are the other things one needs to know about custom-built cars? Here they are:

1. Roadster or Coupe?

Whether the driver wants his car to be roadster or coupe, companies that custom-build cars can adjust to the choice.

2. The Big Kit

Okay, before customizing, one must have this important tool: the kit. Companies like ‘Quality Roadsters’ provide kits and packages to turn a bland car into a ‘wow-worthy’ one. From the car's frame to other materials and features, these are all provided to ensure maximum performance.

As for the frame, the driver must take into consideration if he is going for the round tube or the square one. He must remember that round tube frame is lighter and tougher. On the other hand, a square tube frame is very easy to design. It can be stylish but not rigid or it can be rigid but not stylish.

Body-wise, the driver must choose a dimensionally-able car, with longer foot boxes and impressive fiberglass. The driver must custom-build it to the point that when he drives the car, it seems as if he is not driving the body, but the chassis.

The driver must also take note of the suspension. He must stay away from the independent rear suspension from Jaguar as it is harder to maintain. He must stick to a custom-built car with suspension materials similar to that of Mustang GT's. While replica industries usually make their own suspension, others just stick to the excellent-performing ones available on the market.

As for the engine, it is best that the driver goes for the one from Ford. Operating at 400-hp 302 V8 with transmitting power coming from a T-5 five speed, this engine qualifies as one of the better ones that can fully support a custom-built sports car.

Other car accessories like air-conditioning, overflow tank, cooling fan, shroud kit, fuel injection systems, wiper system and oil filter relocator must also be carefully and systematically selected.

A custom-built sports car will really spruce up the driver's lifestyle as it reflects his personality. He just has to be sure that the replica industry he has chosen will take care of him.

Convertible Incredible

What can be more appealing than driving a convertible? Convertible sports cars, with their sleek and sophisticated looks, are much in demand in the market. For someone who is hoping to snag his own top-down, here are some of the models he needs to consider:

1. 2005 BMW Z4

Sure, this baby is expensive - hey, it's a BMW - but its dynamics and features pretty much explain the price. This German sports car makes a statement as it speedily cruises along the highway.

2. 2005 Audi TT

High-performance, power-engined and invigorating, the 2005 Audi TT always garners an excellent rating in car reviews. With its awesome windscreen, roll hoops and headlamps, the driver cannot go wrong with this one.

3. 2005 Chevrolet Corvette

Over time, Chevrolet Corvette has proven itself with its remarkable power. Now in its sixth generation, the 2005 Chevrolet Corvette is smaller than its older counterparts, but better. With a horsepower of 400, it can go from zero to 60 mph per hour in four seconds. Unbelievable! This makes the Corvette a staple in any summer.

4. 2005 Lexus SC 430

The Lexus SC 430 is inspired by, no less than, the French Riviera. This car can go from coupe to a raging roadster in a span of 25 seconds. It is stylish, glamorous and powerful.

5. 2005 Mazda Miata

This model is pretty affordable for its look and power. This is very dependable and dynamic and it will knock the driver ‘off his feet’. With its reactive suspension and immense horsepower, this convertible sports car is one for the books.

6. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle

Charming and cute like any other Beetle, this monster-engined convertible promises an adventurous ride on those lazy summer afternoons.

7. Jaguar XK8 Convertible

Great design, awesome interior, and technologically-advanced, this convertible can bring out the best in every driver. Its speed can go up to 155 mph per hour and the acceleration? Zerp - 60 mph in just 6.7 seconds. Now that's truly incredible!

8. 2006 Cadillac XLR

This is a top-of-the-line convertible sports car, which promises "capacity like no other." It is almost $78,000 but who cares? This is probably the best in the market now.

9. 2005 Chrysler Crossfire Roadster

Test drive this car and see that it is more amazing than its previous version.

All these convertible sports cars are undeniably worth the money and the effort to maintain them.

Find out the best way to buy a sports car

First, before going to a car dealership, buyers should already have an idea of the type of sports car they will be looking for.

Do they want a convertible, a two-seater, a mid-engine sport car, or a luxury sports vehicle? These are questions prospective car buyers need to ask themselves before they start their search. This will make the selection process much easier.

Buyers need to do their homework

It would be best for prospective buyers to do some research ahead of time. Read car magazines, talk to friends and memorize information on those sports vehicles buying guides that they might be interested in buying.

Don't forget to surf the net to get the latest news and information about the various models of sports cars that are on the market.

Compare prices

Pay a visit to a number of car dealerships. Look for special deals and discounts that they might be offering. This way a prospective buyer could get the best possible deal by comparing prices.

Budget

If money is a concern, prospective buyers should set a limit on how much they are going to spend, and stick to it!

Insurance premiums for sports cars tend to be relatively higher. This is reason prospective buyers need to set aside a portion of their budget for insurance. They always need to take into account the cost of: maintenance, operation, and repairs.

Timing is everything

The best time of the year to purchase a new sports car is near the end of the year when car dealerships are holding their annual end of the year sales. This is when dealers try to get rid of old models and try to replace them with new ones. The car dealerships offer especially low rates that they would not normally offer during these ‘end of the year’ sales. So it would be best for customers to take advantage at this time.

Warranty

The warranty is an important part of your decision when buying a car. It is a part of the cost that customers pay for when they make a purchase, they must be sure that the terms of the warranty are satisfactory.

Buying a new sports car doesn't have to be a big headache. It can be fun and exciting, as long as buyers know what they are doing.

This is why they need to prepare ahead of time, before going on a car hunting expedition so that they can own the sports car of their dreams.

How to buy the cheapest sports car insurance policy

For most people a sports vehicle is the car of their dreams. The feel of a revving engine and their hair being swept back by the wind as their convertible speeds down on the highway, they feel is a prize worth paying for.

But what if once they acquire the sports car of their dreams, and the thrill of victory dies when they realize that something has gone terribly wrong? They suddenly realize they have blown most of their hard earned cash on the purchase of their new vehicle, not leaving enough for the purchase of car insurance. This is when the hunt for a cheap sports car insurance policy begins!

Some things to remember when looking for cheap sports car insurance:

Shop around the internet for insurance rates

Some of the cheaper sports car insurance rates can be found on the internet. Several insurance companies offer deals and discounts. There are also car insurance companies that offer free insurance estimates online.

Factors in determining cost

Sports cars that are driven in places that are considered to have high crime rates cost more to insure. Sports cars are known to be more often stolen than a non-sports vehicle. Their cost for repairs is relatively higher. This is why the insurance premium for sports vehicles are higher than average.

But if a sports car is equipped with safety features such as car alarm, detachable stereo, and steering wheel lock - the cost to have it insured will be reduced.

Compare prices

Shop around for the cheapest sports car insurance policy. This way you will be able to compare the different deals and offers car insurance companies are offering.

Customers would also know if they are being treated fairly, since they have a basis of comparison from different sources.

It is also a factor how many individuals are to be covered by a particular insurance company. This is why it is imperative to look into different sources for the best deal. Different insurance companies offer different terms and agreements.

There are numerous car insurance companies out that are less expensive sports car insurance.

The key is to find those that are offering discounts and special deals for the specific model of car and one that cover the buyer's needs and specifications. This way the owning a sports car will be an exhilarating experience.

A Classic (Sports Car) Tale

Classic sports cars

Those three words come up together to form an image of grandeur, speed and extravagance. For who can afford classic sports cars? Only the affluent of course! But for the average “Joe” who dreams of having his own classic sports car and hopes to know more about it, this article is meant to provide information on this amazing “king of the road”.

First know the foremost brands of classic sports cars.

1. Lotus

Lotus is famous for coming up with the Lotus Elise 11S, Lotus Elise Motorsport, Lotus Elan, Lotus Europa Twin Cam, Lotus Super Seven S4, Lotus Elan SE Turbo and Lotus Super Seven Replica by Birkin.

2. Austin Healey Sprite

Only Austin Healey Sprite can come up with the Bugeye Sprite Race Car with an outstanding 250 horsepower! The 1960 Speedwell Sprite Vintage Race Car is another force to reckon with, as well as the 1962 Austin Healey Sprite MK.

3. Austin Mini

Austin Mini boasts of the Mini Cooper that comes in excellent colors and for $13,000, it is quite a steal!

4. TVR

The TVR has this elite collection of classic sports cars like the TVR Tuscan Challenge Race Car, TVR S2 Roadster, TVR Taimar Coupe and TVR 2500M.

5. Birkin

Classic sports car is almost synonymous to the brand Birkin, as it is made famous with Louts Super Seven replicas and offers Birkin S3, Birkin C-S3 Street, among other roadsters that come with the Ford ZETEC engine, four-wheeled disc brakes and a heavy-duty aluminum body.

6. Jaguar

Jaguar is the ‘mighty’ classic sports car that men cannot get enough of. With the Jaguar E-type Coupe, Jaguar X-Type Track Car and Jaguar C-Type replica, this is the brand that really pushes classic sports cars several ‘to the limit’.

7. Triumph

Jaguar-engined Triumph roars just as a classic sports car is expected to do. Classic models like the 1969 Triumph Spitfire MK III and 1960 Triumph TR3A stand for what Triumph is all about - sophistication and power.

Here are some books that inform the reader on how to keep the classic sports cars in tiptop shape: "Classic Car Restorer's Handbook," "Fun and Profit Buying, Showing and Selling Vintage and Classic Cars," "Restoration of Antique and Classic Cars," "Budget Auto Restoration: Low Cost, Step-By-Step Tricks" and "How to Rebuild and Modify Your Muscle Car."

The classic sports car exudes action and nobility. No wonder, it never goes out of style.

Tips on Buying Pre-owned Sports Cars

Sometimes the best buys are made with pre-owned products. This is particularly true in the case of sports cars. Many people would like to have a sports car mainly for the performance but some may want to simply experience the sheer enjoyment that only a sport’s cars can give. Buying a brand new sports car may be too much expense for many people, that's why a pre-owned or second hand sports car should be considered.

Here some good advice in the purchasing of pre-owned sports cars.

1. Set expectations
Many people go out to buy a pre-owned sports car with a brand new car in mind. Buying pre-owned sports cars is about getting the best value for your money. Knowing your needs and preferences is also a must in buying pre-owned sports cars.

2. Set a budget
Buying a sports car, even pre-owned ones can be expensive Researching through internet browsing or buying “buy and sell” car magazines can give a buyer a general feeling about the current prices of different sports car models.

3. Examine carefully
A buyer must be careful in inspecting the pre-owned car and take his time doing so. There are four essential elements of the car that should be thoroughly inspected: the interior, the body, the engine, and the papers. A well-maintained sports car is worth buying.

Open the hood and examine the car's engine. Many people may not know too much about car electronics but inspection will give a buyer a general feel of how the car has been maintained by the previous owner.

Check the inside of the tailpipe. If it is greasy, that means that there is a problem with the engine compression.

Check for scratches or dents on the cars body. Of course, do not forget to check the car’s title, etc. Missing papers will cost the buyer additional money or prevent the purchase.

4. Test Drive
Before a purchase, the buyer should take the car for a test drive. This is a “must” for all cars, not only for pre-owned ones. An assessment of the over-all handling and performance of the car should be made during the test drive.

Buying a pre-owned maybe the best choice in purchasing a sports car, especially when one is faced by budget constraints. Pre-owned sports cars have the potential to give the same excitement and fun that brand new ones can give. Choose and buy wisely and have fun while doing so.

Purchasing a Brand New Sports Car

Driving around town in a brand new sports car may be one of the best experiences for a driver. Sports cars don't only give superior driving performance and comfort; they also give confidence to the owner of the car. Sports cars can be seen as the ultimate “eye candy” in the automobile world.

Buying a brand new sports car can also be a scary thing because of the money involved. How do you one shop for a brand new sports car? Here are some helpful tips in doing so:

1) Think about it a hundred times
There is a big difference in buying a sports car and a sedan. There is also a big difference in between a brand new model and an older one. A buyer must carefully assess his needs several times before deciding to buy a brand new model. This is particularly true if the budget is quite tight. But even if one can generously afford a brand new model, he must remember that money that is put in the wrong car is wasted money.

A buyer should also consider waiting for a little while if he is looking at a particular model which is new but is on the verge of being taken off the "brand new" list. This move could save him a lot of money while getting the same value that he would have gotten a few months back. This is an effective strategy if he intends to keep the car for a long time.

2) List and Check
A buyer should make a checklist of what he wants in a sports car. He should then compare the top scorers in his list. Factors such as size, comfort, engine performance and other details may be the deciding factor for the purchase.

3) Mind the Sticker Price
Always bear in mind that the sticker price is the highest price that the market can put on a particular model. Negotiations can bring the price down if done correctly.

4) Financing First
A buyer must make provisions for financing before making a purchase. Banks may be the best choice for car financing but the approval process can take some time. A buyer must also set extra money aside for peripheral expenses such as taxes and documents processing.

A brand new sports car is a dream for everyone. When someone has the capacity to realize the dream of buying a sports car, he must be wise and careful in doing so. A good purchase will make the sports car experience much more pleasant for the buyer.

2006 BMW Sports Cars

BMW or Bayerische Motoren Werke has long been conceived all over the world as "The Ultimate Driving Machine." The company has proven this statement true in the past years.

The current models of BMW sports car will attest to that statement.

Here are some of the current models of BMW, with their corresponding characteristics.

-BMW M3 2006

Engine specifications:

BMW M3 has an in-line, 3.2 liter capacity engine with a compression ratio of 11.5. It has four valves per cylinder. It promises to deliver 248 KW power and 333 HP at 7900 rpm (SAE).

Brake Features:

The car has electronic brake distribution, brake assist system, four disk brakes with ventilated disks, cornering brake control, and four-wheel ABS.

Handling Features:

BMW M3 is equipped with stability control, immobilizer and limited slip differentia at the rear. The ABS and engine management control the electronic traction.

Aerodynamics Exterior features:

The car has 0.35 drag coefficient, body side moldings, and 3771 lbs. curb weight.

-BMW M5 2006

Engine specifications:

The BMW M5 2006 car has a V10, and 3.2 liter capacity engine with a compression ratio of 12. It has four valves per cylinder. It promises to deliver 373 KW power and 500 HP at 7750 rpm (SAE).

Brake Features:

The car has brake assist system, four disk brakes with ventilated disks, electronic brake distribution, cornering brake control, and four-wheel ABS.

Handling Features:

The BMW M5 is equipped with stability control, immobilizer and limited slip differentia at the rear. The ABS and engine management control the electronic traction. It is also equipped with a responsive suspension.

Aerodynamics Exterior features:

The car has 0.31 drag coefficient and 4012 lbs. curb weight.

-BMW 6-Series

Engine specifications:

The BMW M5 2006 has a V8, 4.8 liter capacity engine with a compression ratio of 10.5. It has four valves per cylinder. It promises to deliver 268 KW power and 360 HP at 6300 rpm (SAE).

Brake Features

The car has electronic brake distribution, brake assist system, four disk brakes with ventilated disks, cornering brake control, and four-wheel ABS.

Handling Features:

BMW M3 car is equipped with stability control, immobilizer and limited slip differentia at the rear. The ABS and engine management control the electronic traction. It is also equipped with an adjustable responsive suspension.

Aerodynamics Exterior features:

The car has 0.3 drag coefficient, and 3814 lbs. curb weight.

With all the features these cars have, BMW truly is the "Ultimate Driving Machine."

The Best 2006 Sports Cars

Sports cars are fascinating vehicles. Their features make them stand out among other car types. But there still is competition among sports cars. It is fascinating to talk about these sports cars and why they stand out above their contemporaries.

Here are some of the 2006 vehicles that made the list of best sports car and the qualities that made them above average.

- Audi A3 2.0T

This car goes beyond the beauty of its exterior. Car enthusiasts appreciate the car's responsiveness and agility.

Audi A3 2.0T comes with an intercooled, turbo charged engine with 2.0 liter capacity and 16 valves. The car promises to deliver power up to 197 mph at 5100 rpm.

Other features include a six speed manual transmission, front-wheel type of driveline, 101.5 in. wheelbase and curb weight of 3300 - 3350 lbs.

- Chevrolet Corvette

The car's V-8 engine (7.0 liter) with 16 valves allows for greater speed, and because the car is lighter than regular cars, the Chevrolet Corvette is capable of accelerating up to 125 mph in 12 seconds within one-fourth of a mile.

The car's braking system is impressive. The car's reflex is also astounding.

The car comes with the following specifications: rear-wheel type of driveline, and curb weight within 3100 - 3300 lbs.

-Honda Accord

The car comes with its fresh look: revised interiors, rear and front styling, and better sound-minimizing capability.

Honda Accord still boasts of its qualities such as high value for resale, excellent construction and reliability.

V6 Accords are equipped with a new stable system and improved suspension.

This car also has the following specifications: front- wheel type of driveline, 3100 to 3600 lbs. curb weight, up to 107.9 in. wheelbase and 5 or 6 speed manual transmission.

- Porsche Boxster

The Porsche Boxster speaks well about its balance. Pair this quality with an increase in power delivered by its 24-valve DOHC engine with 2.7 liters capacity.

The braking system is as remarkable as is the car's over-all aggressive appeal.

Other features of the car include:

A rear-wheel type of driveline, 95.1 in. wheelbase, and curb weight within 2900 -3100 lbs.

Truly, sports cars did evolve and they will continue to evolve as long as there is competition. Car enthusiasts can expect more remarkable features in sports cars as years go by.

Sports Cars

Cars, in general, possess both form and function. The designers did not compromise aesthetics with performance.

However, there is something about sports cars that make them stand out when it comes to beauty. And we are not talking about external features only.

There is more to physical features like, sleekness of the car, that determine its beauty.

Here are some of the characteristics that endear sports cars to car enthusiasts.

- Sports cars have attitude at first glance.

Sports cars speak the attitude that they possess. They are not like mere cars whose presence can be ignored. They captivate the eyes of those who see them. They imply that thrill and enjoyment van be expected when their hands are those that control the wheel.

Sports cars stand above other cars, that are seen very day, primarily because the designs imply what they are capable of doing. A sleek look really matches a car with sleek activities.

- Sports cars possess greater power.

Their power comes from their more powerful engines and has other specifications than other the cars have. A sports car can do more than ordinary tasks because of the features that only they possess.

- Sports cars are made for driving pleasure.

Ordinary cars make driving monotonous and boring, while on the other hand, sports cars primarily aim to give the drivers a "high" feeling of speed and control. Only sports cars can provide that need for drivers who seek adventure.

Sports cars bring the thrill back to driving. They express what other cars can not. Sports cars are not designed just for practicality, but for pleasure too.

- Sports cars are made for drivers who enjoy their ‘wild side’.

Drivers do have the need to express this ‘wild side’. Sports cars make any road a venue to satisfy those needs. Only sports cars can match the “wildness" that drivers innately have. For that reason, sports cars perfectly compliment the child in every driver.

- Sports cars have evolved and improved through the years.

Drivers appreciate the improvements that have been made to sports cars. You could say that sports car technology has infinite possibilities. The stereotypes of sports cars have long been debunked. Those limits have been crossed. The only thing that car enthusiasts can do is to watch as these improvements unfold before their very eyes.

- Sports cars make their owners feel good about themselves.

Sports cars are lifeless. They cannot feel proud because they are beautiful, but their owners take pride in having them.

With all these things said about the intrinsic and extrinsic beauty that sports cars possess, only a person who does not appreciate their beauty and/or speed will not opt to get one.