Comparing two or more cars can be a challenge even for an experienced auto technician or seasoned car critic. Automakers boast about new technological systems and performance metrics, but other specifications often go unspoken to hide shortcomings or exaggerate a vehicle's performance and efficiency. Understanding the meaning of car specs is essential to making good comparisons based on data rather than hype.
Power
Power specs are among the most commonly cited pieces of data when comparing cars. One of the most well-known power specs is horsepower, which represents the maximum amount of power than the engine can produce. However, higher horsepower is not always better. Cars that develop their peak horsepower at high engine speeds may never actually give drivers access to that power. Since most drivers drive at 1,000 to 3,000 rpm, cars with good horsepower ratings in this range are the most likely to develop power that is useful for accelerating and passing.
Performance
Other performance specs are important in comparing cars. Torque, which is another measurement of engine power, refers to the turning power at the wheels. Higher torque ratings at lower rpm means better acceleration and a greater ability to tow a heavy load. Driveline configurations are also important. Cars with a front-mounted engine and rear-wheel drive have more even weight distribution and handle more effectively and predictably on dry surfaces, while front engine/front-wheel drive models may handle better in the snow. A car's suspension specs also help determine performance characteristics. For example, gas-filled shocks or "sport-tuned" suspensions provide a less smooth ride than fluid shocks.
Safety
Automakers frequently list a car's safety systems without providing an explanation of how they work or what they mean. Systems like electronic stability control and traction control use sensors inside the wheels to transfer power to wheels that still have traction in the event of a skid or slide. Anti-lock brakes pulsate automatically if the driver's application of the brake fails to stop the car. All of these systems help reduce the likelihood of an accident. Other specs, like stopping distance (usually measured as the distance it takes for a car to brake from 60 mph to a dead stop), are important for determining the safest way to drive a given car.
Efficiency
Fuel efficiency is a major spec that affects the decisions many car buyers make. The fuel efficiency specs provided by the Environmental Protection Agency are a good guide but seldom reflect the real-world efficiency of a given model. In the case of hybrid-electric vehicles, actual fuel economy depends largely upon driving style and how much work the electric motor is able to do. Manual transmissions give drivers the chance to save fuel by employing efficient driving habits, such as coasting downhill or starting up slowly in a low gear.
Price
Car prices are another vital spec that car buyers should study carefully. Besides the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) that automakers advertise, most new cars are subject to a destination or delivery fee. Dealers may add tire fees, cleaning fees, tax and surcharges, which, combined, can add hundreds of dollars to the price of a new car. However, factory incentives, loyalty programs and dealer discounts all reduce the price. Be sure to look deeper into the numbers than the MSRP before settling on a price point.
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