How to Find the Invoice Price on New Vehicles

Purchasing a car can be an intimidating experience. It is a considerable investment that demands a lot of research and preparation, otherwise you could end up paying more for the car than you should. The price shown on the car's informational sticker, often called the sticker price, is a higher price than you should pay for your car. To maximize your savings, it is important to find the price that the dealer paid for the car, called the invoice price, and make your purchasing decision with that amount in mind.

Instructions

Finding the Invoice Price at Edmunds.com

1

Navigate to the Edmunds new car website.

2

Select the manufacturer of your desired vehicle from the "Browse by Make" section.

3

Click the link in the center of the screen for your desired vehicle model.

4

Select your desired vehicle model style from the list in the center of the screen. Most cars come with several different styles that include a combination of pre-determined options meant to appeal to different types of people. The prices for the different styles will vary depending on the options included with each one.

5

Locate the "National Base Price" section. The invoice price is listed under the word "Invoice."

Finding the Invoice Price at KBB.com

6

Navigate to the KBB (Kelley Blue Book) website.

7

Click the drop-down menu that says "Select Make," then choose the manufacturer of your desired car. Select the drop-down menu that says "All Models" and choose the model of vehicle you are researching, then click the "Go" button.

8

Type your ZIP code, then click the "Go" button.

9

Select the vehicle year you are interested in (at certain times throughout the year, some dealerships carry new vehicles from two different model years).

10

Select your desired vehicle model trim from the list in the center of the screen. The invoice price will be displayed on the next screen next to the word "Invoice" in the center of the screen.

Tips on Buying a Used Car From a Private Seller

When you're in the market for a used car, you may be able to get a better deal from a private seller than from a dealer. Private sellers are often hoping to sell their cars quickly and with as little hassle as possible, so they are often willing to deal. They may also be trying to unload a lemon, so you need to know how to check out a used car and deal with a private seller effectively.

Identify

Know the type of used car you would like to buy from a used seller, or at least know the specific makes and models that you are willing to consider. There are many sources for finding used cars being offered by private sellers, from online sites like Auto Trader and Craigslist to classified ads and printed publications. You will be overwhelmed unless you narrow down the ads to a few specific makes and models of interest. Identify cars in which you have interest and find several ads for those cars.

Contact

Contact the sellers who have used cars in which you are interested. Set up a specific time to come out and look at each car. If the seller placed a local ad but claims that the car is in another state, or even country, when you call him, beware because this may be a sign of a scam. Only deal with local sellers who will readily set up an appointment to let you see the car in person.

Research

Do some research on prices before you visit each seller to view the used cars. Websites like Kelley Blue Book will allow you to find the average wholesale, retail, and private party prices for virtually any used car. Prices vary based on the vehicles's condition, but this will give you a useful baseline for negotiations with a private seller.

Evaluate

Evaluate the used car thoroughly when you visit the private seller. Test drive it under a variety of conditions, and ask to see maintenance and repair records. If you like the car, ask the seller if she is willing to allow you to take it to a mechanic to be checked. Even though this will cost you some money, it will give you peace of mind that the car is in good mechanical condition or catch potential problems. If the private seller is not willing to let a mechanic look at the car, take that as a warning and do not buy it. If it passes the mechanical inspection, order a CARFAX report to check its owner and accident history,

Negotiate

Most private sellers who are selling used cars will leave some negotiating room in the price. If you are interested in the car, make an offer and let the seller know why you feel it is fair. Reference your research materials, the condition of the car, and anything else that backs up your offer. The seller may accept it or make a counter-offer. If you can't come to an agreement, thank the seller for his time and move on to the next car.

Paperwork

If a private seller makes any promises or guarantees to you, have her put them in writing and sign the document. Car sales between private parties are typically as-is unless there is a signed contract stating otherwise. No matter how convincing a seller's words might be, you will not be able to legally hold her to verbal promises.

Features of a Toyota Yaris

Base models of the Toyota Yaris start at a manufacturer's suggested retail price of just under $13,000 as of October 2010. With EPA estimated gas mileage of 29 miles per gallon in city driving and 35 miles per gallon on the highway, the Yaris is less costly to own and operate than many similar new cars. The Yaris is available in sedan, three-door liftback and five-door liftback designs.

Safety

A large number of safety features are standard on the Yaris. These include anti-lock brakes, vehicle stability control, tire monitoring, front and side airbags and structural features to protect vehicle occupants in a crash.

In 2009, the U.S. Department of Transportation rated the Yaris for vehicle safety. All models received four out of a possible five stars for protection in a rollover accident. With the exception of a three star rating for the three-door liftback for safety for a backseat passenger in a side collision, each Yaris rated four to five stars for front and side collisions for drivers, front and rear seat passengers.

Standard Features

Air conditioning, rear window defroster, tilt steering wheel, adjustable front seats, fold down rear seat, luggage cover, trunk light, map light and several small storage compartments are standard interior features on the Yaris. Standard exterior features include intermittent front windshield wipers, wheel covers, a roof-mounted antenna and halogen headlamps.

Options

Powered outside mirrors, power door locks, remote keyless entry, rear-window wiper, cruise control, fog lamps and a tachometer are only available as options. If you want a radio, CD or MP3 player you will need to add it. The Yaris comes with four speakers and it is ready for a radio, but the radio, itself, is an option. A 60-40 split on the fold-down rear seat, upgraded upholstery and leather on the steering wheel and shift knob are also available at additional cost.

A Test Drive Checklist for New Cars

The process of buying a new car can be initiated by desire or need. Either deciding factor requires adequate research and a thorough inspection of the vehicle. Even new vehicles have a basic checklist that should be followed to ensure the car is the right fit for you and does not have any faulty aspects, whether mechanical or cosmetic. A test drive should be at least 30 minutes and driven over a variety of road surfaces to get acquainted with the vehicle, according to Consumer Reports.

Interior

The interior aspects are just as important as how the new car performs. You should be comfortable behind the wheel of the vehicle, and your passengers should be able to ride with ease as well. Russ Heap of Bankrate.com suggests sitting in all of the seats in the car to get a first-hand feel of their comfort quality. He also recommends having the salesperson demonstrate the use of the features--windshield wipers, lights, stereo, etc.--so you will know where to access them while driving.

Exterior

An inspection of the outer elements of a vehicle should be done. Evaluate how the body components, such as the tail end or the step-up room on trucks, fit to your needs. Whether or not the styling of the car will interfere with proper backing up or being able to get in and out should be weighed. Ensure that your visibility is clear; the hood or trunk should not obstruct your view of traffic or blind spots.

The Ride

During the actual test drive, make careful observation of the ride. The vehicle's suspension dictates how smooth the ride is. Take notice of how much you can feel the road or bumps during the drive. Pay attention to the vehicle's control over uneven surfaces.

Steering

The steering is what controls a car's movement; therefore, being able to properly handle the vehicle is crucial. Measure how quickly the vehicle responds to your change in movement of the steering wheel and how much force you have to use to get the vehicle to coincide.

Performance

Ford Motor Company lists the assessment of the car's acceleration and braking as factors to check during the test drive. The vehicle should be able to accelerate with ease after a stop and continue to shift from gear to gear smoothly while driving. When applying the brakes, a stable vehicle will have good traction control and come to a steady halt.

Sound

Silence is partly required during a test drive. Turn off the radio to adequately hear the exterior noise during the ride. Russ Heap advises that you listen to wind noises around the window seals and the sound of the tires against the road surfaces. The engine noise dictates the quality of the motor. Heightened sounds would generally accompany a firm acceleration, but there should not be any excess whining or rattling.

How to Lease a Pre-Owned Car

Leases aren't just for brand new cars. Chances are that pre-owned car you are looking might also make a great lease deal. If your looking at a pre-owned car that has undergone a certified pre-owned inspection, you might even be able to get a warranty that covers as much as a new car warranty would.

Instructions

1

Call a car dealership that carries that type of used vehicle you are thinking about leasing. Ask whether pre-owned leases are available for the specific year, make and model that you are looking at. Not all banks and manufacturers have leases available for all pre-owned vehicles.

2

Do you research and find out what price a vehicle with the options and mileage you are looking for should be selling for. You can use sites such as www.kbb.com (Kelley Blue Book) to find out a vehicle's value based on its condition, mileage, options and year. Also, use sites such as www.autotrader.com to see what dealers and private parties are selling similar vehicles for.

3

Try to find a vehicle with the lowest mileage possible when leasing a pre-owned vehicle. Pre-owned vehicles usually have residual values that are higher than what the car is currently selling for; a pre-owned car with very low miles will have a higher residual since the vehicle is in better condition compared with an identical vehicle with 30,000 or 40,000 more miles, for example.

4

Ask about how much warranty is still available on the vehicle. You would ideally like to lease a vehicle that is covered under warranty, be it the original warranty or an extended warranty, for the duration of your lease.

5

Find out about scheduled maintenance that need to be performed on the vehicle. As cars get older and gain more mileage, the scheduled maintenance usually gets bigger and more expensive. Check whether the dealer has any scheduled maintenance packages that can be purchased at the start of the lease to cover all oil changes and other required maintenance.

Options for a Full-Size Chevy Blazer

The Chevrolet Blazer is a sport-utility vehicle that was offered in a variety of sizes and trim lines in the years between its introduction in 1983 and its replacement by the Trailblazer model in 2006. One of the most popular of all Blazer designs, the full-size Blazer, featured a number of options that could be purchased to meet the preferences and financial considerations of the buyer.

Vanity Options

The full-size Chevrolet Blazer came customizable with a myriad of vanity options that were offered separately from the features that came standard. Some of the options that were available included privacy glass, roof rack, 16-inch alloy wheels and a power glass sunroof. In addition, the full-size Chevy Blazer offered an auto-dim rear view mirror, leather steering wheel trim, steering wheel audio controls and illuminated vanity mirrors and a universal remote transmitter. These options were available at an additional cost at the time of order.

Color Options

The full-size Chevrolet Blazer was available in a variety of interior and exterior color options that changed over the years. Traditional external color options included black, dark cherry red, victory red, summit white, indigo blue, metallic blue, sandalwood, dark green and white pewter. Special colors were available at the time of purchase, which could be customized to suit the tastes of the buyer and were available for an additional charge. While the external color options offered a variety of shades to choose from, the internal colors offered on the full-size Chevy Blazer were limited to graphite and metallic gray.

Safety Options

Being a sport-utility vehicle, the full-size Chevrolet Blazer came with a wide variety of safety options that could be customized to fit the needs of the buyer. Some features came standard on later models and included four-wheel antilock brake system, passenger side airbags and disengaged airbags, which could be powered on by implementing the airbag control feature. Additional features that were available at an additional charge included front fog driving lights, a protective engine block heating system and a special trunk-releasing system, which was designed to release automatically in an emergency.

How to avoid car scams on Craigslist

Craigslist can be a great resource for finding used cars in your area, but unfortunately, thieves and scammers sometimes take advantage of this free Web site. Here are a few precautions you can take to avoid auto scams on Craigslist.

Instructions

1

According to Craigslist, 99 percent of scam attempts on the site can be avoided if you deal only with local sellers. Do not deal with anyone who promises to ship a car from a foreign country or distant location. Craigslist also warns not to wire money or give out your financial information.

2




The old adage "if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is," definitely applies to buying cars listed on Craigslist. Be suspicious of used cars that are priced significantly under Blue Book value.

3




Another way to avoid car scams is to look up used cars at CARFAX: www.carfax.com. With the car's VIN number, you can purchase a detailed vehicle history report. The report checks for title problems, ownership history, accidents, and service records.

4




Beware of VIN cloning scams (when a thief copies a VIN number from a car and uses it as the VIN number for a stolen car). Scammers sell these stolen cars to unsuspecting buyers through classified ads or on Craigslist. When police track down the stolen car, the buyer is forced to hand over the car and loses the money paid. To avoid this used auto scam, carefully examine the VIN number on the dashboard, inside the door jamb, and under the hood. Then check the car's title and registration documents for discrepancies. Typos and misspelled words can also indicate a fake document.

5




Finally, if you are serious about buying a used auto but have concerns about its condition, take the car to an independent mechanic and have it inspected on a lift.

Shadowline Vs. Chrome Trim BMW 335i

The BMW 335i can be specified in a wide variety of trim levels, such as paint options, trim finish and wheel design. The combination of trim and options greatly affects the overall aesthetic of a given model, and can make it look more classic or more modern, depending on the owner's preference. One of these areas is the trim around the windows, body panels, bumpers and grille.

Shadowline

Shadowline trim is BMW's way of referring to exterior trim that has been blacked out. It is available in either matte or glossy. Shadowline trim can usually be specified when an order is placed for a car, though it comes standard on the 335i when the $2,150 Sport Package is specified. It also comes standard on all E92 3 Series coupes. The E90/E92 is the latest, fifth generation of the BMW 3 Series.

Chrome/Brushed Aluminum

Chrome or brushed aluminum trim is far brighter than Shadowline, and is silver in color. It comes standard on 335s with the exception of the 335i coupes.

Shadowlne Apperance

Shadowline trim tones down the overall appearance and gives a more subtle, modern look. Any preference is purely subjective, of course.

Chrome Appearance

Chrome and brushed aluminum trim makes the size and profile of the windows and body panels more noticeable, and is also more flashy overall.

Changing the Trim

It is possible to change the aluminum trim to Shadowline on a BMW. There are a few ways to do it. The correct way, and by far the most expensive, is to have the dealer or a reputable shop change the trim from chrome to Shadowline--or visa versa--with factory-made trim pieces. This will cost well over $1,000. The two other options are covering the chrome trim with vinyl or painting the trim with black paint. Neither of these options will result in a factory-like appearance on close inspection.

How to Buy a Used 1993 Lexus ES300

Finding a used 1993 Lexus ES300 may take a bit of scouring in your local area. The process, however, need not be stressful. You should be prepared to purchase from either a dealer or private individual. Following some basic guidelines can make finding the 1993 Lexus ES300 at a decent price fairly easy.

Instructions

1

Search for local 1993 Lexus ES300 listings online. Use websites like online classifieds sites and www.autotrader.com to find listings in your area. Scour through local newspapers as well.

2

Contact each of the sellers listing the ES300 at a reasonable price. Call them and ask to arrange a meeting to see the vehicle. Ask them over the phone about any major issues you should know about upfront.

3

Visit the seller and take a good look at the vehicle. Look for any significant damage to the vehicle and inquire about it. Inform the seller that you want to have a mechanic inspect the car. If the seller is serious about selling the vehicle, he or she will agree to this.

4

Contact a local dealer that provides service for Lexus vehicles. Schedule one of their mechanics to meet with you and the seller to inspect the vehicle.

5

Make an offer to the seller, if the ES300 passes inspection. Offer a price reasonably lower than the asking price. Don't be afraid to haggle a bit for a good price. Most sellers will comply up to a point. When a price has been agreed upon, arrange the payment and transfer the vehicle to your name.

Who Buys Salvaged Cars?

Salvaged cars are purchased by car dealerships and private parties alike. Many salvaged cars are sold at auctions that are open to dealers and the general public. Some salvaged vehicles are bought for parts, while others are repaired and resold.

Types

There are two types of salvaged cars available for sale: repairable and restored. A repairable vehicle has damage but may be repaired or its parts sold, while a restored salvaged vehicle is roadworthy and has already been inspected by a state official.

Considerations

Salvaged vehicles sell for thousands less than comparable clean-title cars. Although this savings is significant to dealership and private parties, it is difficult to calculate the true market value of a salvaged vehicle.

Potential

Vehicles that have been issued salvage titles may have great potential as cheap used cars. However, others will have underlying electrical and mechanical issues that are hard to track down.

Benefits

Buying a salvaged car can save you thousands of dollars at an auction or dealership. Just be sure that the vehicle is right for you and that you plan to keep it for some time.

Warning

Financing a salvaged car can be difficult. Additionally, some insurance agencies will not write full-coverage insurance policies for salvaged vehicles.

How to Rent a Used Car

It's understandable that most people want to rent cars that look fairly new or luxurious, but older, used cars can be just as attractive or workable--for a cheaper price.

Instructions

Rent-a-Wreck

1

Go to the website of one of the best-known used car rental companies in the world, Rent-a-Wreck. Read their "About" page where they tell you how they test all their vehicles to make sure they're still in prime condition.

2

Use Rent-a-Wreck.com's "Search by Location" box on the main page to see if they have a rental facility in your state.

3

Visit the nearest Rent-a-Wreck location. At many of their locations, you can rent cars with cash instead of a credit card.

4

Rent a car or truck for a price that's cheap rather than luxurious.

Alternatives

5

Check Google or the Yellow Pages for local, independent used car rental facilities.

6

Click on the Hertz "Rent2Buy" website (see Resources) where you can rent a used car and then buy it. This is a good option if you're planning to test and buy a used car.

7

Read the details of Hertz' "Rent2Buy" program on their website. You'll have a three-day rental time that allows you to take the vehicle out of town for a real test run. They offer all models of cars and arguably a little better than you'd get at Rent-a-Wreck.

How Do I Read a 1987 Chevy's VIN Number?

The vehicle identification number (VIN) of a car fulfills multiple purposes, including identifying the car for anti-theft purposes and due diligence during a purchase and determining the model year, ethanol compatibility and model features. You can find your Chevrolet's VIN on the dashboard by looking through the lower corner of the windshield on the driver's side.

Instructions

1

Read character 1 as the country of manufacture:
1: United States
2: Canada

2

Read character 2 as the manufacturer. This character for a Chevrolet is G, for GM.

3

Read character 3 as the make. For 1987 Chevrolets, character 3 is 1.

4

Read character 4 and 5 as the car model. For 1987 Chevrolet, there are 20 codes for car model, so the list will not be recreated here.

5

Read character 6 as the body style. For model year 1987, the codes are 1, 2, 3, 5, 6 and 8. 1 through 3 is for two-door models: 5 through 8 is for four-doors. 1 is for coupe or sedan. 5 is for sedan (there are no four-door coupes). 2 and 6 are hatchbacks. 3 is for convertibles. 8 is for station wagons.

6

Read character 7 as the restraint method. For model year 1987, 1 is for manual seat belts, and 4 is for automatic.

7

Read character 8 as the engine type. For model year 1987, there are 20 engine types for the various GM cars, so the list will not be recreated here.

8

Don't concern yourself with character 9. GM uses it internally.

9

Read character 10 as the model year. For 1987, the 10th character is H. This might come as a surprise, if you know that 1 stands for 2001, but five letters of the alphabet are skipped in coding model year to avoid confusion with other letters or numbers: I, O, Q, U and Z .

10

Read character 11 as the city of manufacture. GM coded 44 factories for model year 1987, so the list will not be recreated here.

11

Read the last six characters of the VIN as a counter of what order the cars come off the assembly line. These characters ensure the uniqueness of each car's VIN.

How Much Should I Pay for a Demo Car?

Buy a demo car to save money.

MSRP with Incentives and Discounts

Because demonstration vehicles are often sold at or after the model-year end, incentives and rebates are hefty. You can purchase a demo model with thousands off and often at a low interest rate for financing. For example, you might receive a $4,000 discount and zero-percent financing, an attractive deal for a vehicle that is still considered new. Many buyers are satisfied with the attractive amount of money given off by the manufacturer in addition to low finance rates.

Do Not Pay MSRP

If you buy a vehicle with incentives and rebates alone, it might seem like you're getting a good deal, but the dealer is still making maximum profit from the sale. Incentives and rebates are reimbursed to the dealer by the manufacturer. Because you are buying a car with mileage on it already, you should pay a reasonable amount under the dealer invoice amount, at least $1,000 below, in addition to rebates and incentives.

Bottom Line

You should pay at least $1,000 under invoice before any rebates for a demo vehicle, which the dealership knew was a loss the day it was set out as a demo. The dealer should discount the vehicle accordingly, although he may try not to unless you ask. Use Edmunds, an informational website for vehicle shoppers, to determine the invoice pricing.

How to Buy a Used Car in Washington

In today's economy, purchasing a used vehicle is a smart decision that can save a buyer thousands of dollars. With the proper homework and foresight, purchasing a used car is relatively painless, and well worth the potential savings.

Bill of Sale

After coming to an agreed upon price for a used car in Washington state, a bill of sale must be written out--stating the vehicle's sale price--which will be signed by both parties and dated. This, along with the signed title, are needed to transfer ownership. If the title has been lost, an Affidavit of Loss/Release of Interest form must be signed in the presence of a notary public or county auditor.

Odometer Disclosure Statement

This form is available from any Washington Department of Licensing (DOL) office, and also must be signed by both parties. The form is not available online. This form is only required for cars less than 10 years old.

Transfer the Title

Within 15 days of the sale, the title must be transferred to the buyer's name. Failure to do this can result in a fine of up to $100 (as of August 2010). The buyer must take the released title, bill of sale, and the Odometer Disclosure Statement to any DOL office. Fees will vary by county.

How to Buy a New Car on the Internet With a Charge Card

Buying a new car on the Internet with a charge card can be a struggle, as many dealerships do not like to process large credit card transactions, since they must pay a merchant fee to complete the sale. However, some dealerships recognize that savvy clients prefer putting a new car on a charge card in order to reap benefits like cash back bonuses and frequent flier miles. As a result, many dealers are very accommodating when working with clients who want to purchase new cars via charge card.

Instructions

1

Find the right car by researching manufacturer websites or online services like AutoTrader, Ebay and Cars.com. Alternatively, you can visit dealerships to see and test drive cars to narrow down your choices. Even if you visit a dealership, you need not feel obligated to purchase from the same dealership.

2

Request price quotes online. Most dealerships employ a special Internet sales manager, who may also be the manager of the fleet sales department. Their pay plan likely rewards a high sales volume rather than significant profit on each sale. The best way to request price quotes is by using a search engine to find the websites of local dealerships. Most dealers have a "Quick Quote" form that can be used to request a price quote. You should contact multiple local dealerships so you can compare prices to get the best value.

3

Compare price quotes. As the price quotes begin arriving, print or organize them in your inbox. Make sure that all quotes are for similar vehicles, and that no dealership has tried to "low-ball" their offer by quoting a vehicle with no option packages.

4

Ask about the credit card. After you determine the best price offers on your vehicle of choice, contact the Internet sales manager via phone or email. Many Internet sales specialists take phone calls day and night, so contact them whenever you have time.

5

Review their responses. Some dealerships have a credit card policy in place, limiting the amount buyers can put on a charge card to a fixed dollar amount, often $5,000. However, if one dealership offers to let you charge the entire amount, let the other Internet managers know; you can get dealerships bidding against each other to earn your charge card business. Some dealerships allow a charge card to be used for the full amount, as long as it is pre-approved by the owner or chief financial officer.

6

Complete the transaction. Once you agree on using the credit card, ask for a buyer's order detailing the car you plan to purchase. Sign the buyer's order and fax it back to the dealership. Next, call the dealership and give them your credit card information. They will fax you a receipt for the amount put on the charge card. You can now arrange shipping details with the dealership or arrange to pick up the car at a mutually convenient time.

How to Buy a Car From Abroad

Buying a car abroad is an option many turn to for either convenience or value. For many who may be traveling overseas and plan on driving for an extended period of time, buying a car is one way to not only have the convenience of your own automobile, but can also be a better value than renting a car and then having to return it after long term driving. Others may seek to buy abroad because buying a car in the country where it is built is often cheaper than buying it in the U.S. and is one way to avoid many taxes that buying a car in the U.S. may entail. For either reason, it is important to proceed correctly when buying a car abroad, or you may end up spending much more without gaining the added convenience.

Instructions

1

Determine the type of car you wish to buy.

2

Find a dealership that sells that car in the country you wish to buy the automobile. Use the Internet to locate a dealership.

3

Call the dealership and speak to them about buying abroad. You can arrange how you wish to buy the car; whether you would like to buy it before you travel to the country or make an appointment to meet when you go to the country.

4

Make sure that the car you wish to buy meets all U.S. regulations. These regulations include safety restraint systems, weight restrictions and pollution standards (a full list of regulations and eligibility can be found at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's website referenced at the bottom of this guide). Your dealer should be able to tell you whether the car you are interested in meets U.S. regulations. Also make sure the car is allowed to be driven in the country of origin if you wish to do so.

5

Arrange for shipping of the vehicle to the U.S. If you wish to go to the country you are purchasing it from, it is usually cheaper to drop it off at the port yourself; if not, the dealer can drop it off for you at a charge.

6

Arrange all the paperwork with the dealer and the shipping company that will be needed when you pick up the car at the port it ships to. This includes making sure your dealer has arranged for your car to have a label that fulfills the requirements of 49 CFR Part 567 (further details on this can be found on the NHTSA Certification website linked at the bottom of this page).

7

Pick up your car from the port, making sure to have the appropriate paperwork such as the bill of lading, the import certification, and the proof of ownership.

Audi Safety

The Audi has an excellent safety record. Audi vehicles have received consistently high marks from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Most 2010 and 2011 Audis are equipped with technologically advanced safety equipment.

Equipment

Depending on the make and model, the 2010 Audi models are equipped with all-wheel disc brakes, an antilock-braking system, stability and traction control, front and side airbags in the front seat and full-length, side-curtain airbags in the front and rear. Audis also feature a blind-spot warning system.

IIHS Safety

The 2010 Audi A4 sedan received "good" safety ratings from the IIHS in eight of nine categories. It ranked "good" in rear-passenger torso protection, driver and rear-passenger head and neck protection, driver and passenger pelvis and leg protection, and overall front and side safety. It also rated "good" for driver's head protection, left and right leg and foot safety, restraint safety and overall rear safety. It received an "acceptable" rating in driver's torso safety. Results in other models were similar.

NHTSA

The 2010 Audi Q5, a crossover, sport utility vehicle, was also ranked high by the NHTSA. It received the maximum five stars in front driver and passenger safety, and four stars in rollover tests. The Q5 also received five stars in front and rear impact.

Geartronic Transmission vs. Manual Transmission

Volvo vehicles are equipped with the optional Geartronic transmission that permits the driver to select a gear using a steering wheel paddle-shift operated by the thumbs and without the aid of a clutch. The Geartronic essentially is a manual transmission without using the floor-mounted clutch. The Volvo Geartronic is similar to the Porsche Tiptronic transmission introduced in late 1989.

Background

Automakers have experimented with clutchless semi-automatic transmissions since the 1930s when Packard, Chrysler and Oldsmobile developed semi-automatics. More recent and far more successful examples of these types of transmissions are the 1990 and later Porsche 911 Tiptronic, the BMW Steptronic and the Chrysler AutoStick. Cars equipped with a manual transmission usually perform better than automatics, although the Geartronic comes close. Drivers allow engines to reach peak rpm before shifting gears with a manual transmission. Cornering and downshifting with a manual provides better control of the vehicle. Todays conventional automatics offer a lazier ride that requires no effort from the driver with the use of a computer-controlled automatic shifting system. The Geartronic offers drivers both options.

Volvo Geartronic

The Volvo Geartronic comes as a five- or six-speed version with a microprocessor chip to control shifting. In manual mode, the driver manually shifts the gearbox with the paddle shift. Shifting to automatic mode, the driver rests easy without worrying when to shift. In the manual shift mode, an instrument display panel tells the driver what gear the vehicle is using. By shifting to manual, the driver overrides the computers control of gear transitions and directly controls the transmissions torque converter. Manual shifting is especially helpful in downshifting to help brake the car. Volvos high-end models equipped with engines displacing 2 liters and more have the Geartronic as an option.

Volvo Manual Transmission

Volvo offers a conventional manual transmission with a clutch. The Getrag M66 has six forward gears and one reverse. The manuals gear ratios are a first gear 3:39-to-1 ratio, second 1.91-to-1, third 1.27-to-1, fourth 0.95-to-1, fifth 0.78-to-1 and sixth 0.65-to-1. In contrast, the five-speed Geartronic has a first gear ratio of 4.66-to-1, second 3.03-to-1, third 1.98-to-1, fourth 1.34-to-1 and fifth 1.02-to-1. The six-speed Geartronic features a 4.15-to-1 first, 2.37-to-1 second, 1.56-to-1 third, 1.16-to-1 four, 0.86-to-1 fifth and 0.67-to1 sixth.

Performance

Overall performance differences between Volvos six-speed Geartronic and six-speed manual are minimal. For example, the Volvo C30 equipped with six-speed Geartronic can reach zero to 62 mph in 9.5 seconds. The C30 with the manual achieves the same distance in 9.4 seconds. Top speed with the Geartronic is 127 mph, while C30s equipped with the manual is 130 mph. Theres a wider difference in fuel efficiency:The C30s manual version can achieve 55.4 mpg, while the Geartronic model earns 48.7 mpg.

How to Buy a Used Supercharged Car

When looking to buy a used supercharged car, think power above all else. A supercharger gives your car a more powerful engine--a great way to show off its attributes. The extra power will grab people's eyes (and ears), and then the extra advantages of the car will reveal themselves.

Instructions

1

Dedicate your search to used vehicles knowing that this usually saves you money.

2

Research all details of the supercharger you have found to insure you know what you're getting. Ask questions of the seller. Find out if the supercharger is original or if someone added it with a kit.

3

Look over the used supercharged car thoroughly and see if it's all it claims to be. You won't be able to see inside the engine, but you can see signs of a well-kept system-a good sign that the engine is in decent shape.

4

Check out the exterior. Minor repairs are OK, but you don't want to have to do a lot of cosmetic work before you can even drive it.

5

Drive the used supercharged car that interests you and see if it can get the job done. Put it through a small series of tests that mirror real-world situations needing extra power. For example, see if the vehicle can tow a heavy load up a steep incline on demand.

6

Make your decision based on everything you have found. If this is the car for you, buy it and start enjoying your supercharged vehicle.

How to Buy a Classic Camaro

First introduced in 1967, the Camaro was Chevy's answer to the Ford Mustang, and the two cars have had a long rivalry. The Camaro lives on today, but many people would consider the '60s and early '70s to be the car's heyday.

Instructions

1

Consider a first generation car if you want simple, clean lines and a classic look. These cars were built from 1967 to 1969.

2

Look for the car's second generation - generally considered "the" Camaro. These were bigger cars than the first generation and were built from 1970 until 1981. The cars built before 1974 have more powerful engines and chrome bumpers.

3

Look for an SS or Z-28 car if you want more power and a more solid investment. First introduced in 1967, these cars come equipped with big block V-8s and sport-tuned suspension packages.

The Best Kind of Car to Buy

With a down economy, people look for the best deals for their money, especially with new cars. According to Caranddriver.com, the best kind of car to buy in 2009 is the BMW M3 from the 3-series.

History

BMW is a German automobile manufacturer founded in 1916 that is famous for its luxury vehicles. One of BMW's top models, the M3, began production in 1986.

Features

Some of the M3's standard features include a 4.0-liter V-8 engine, dynamic stability control, ABS, all-season traction, a crash sensor, drive-away protection and roadside assistance.

Size

The BMW M3 is a midsized roomy luxury car that offers a lot of foot room and trunk space.

Considerations

Although the 2009 BMW M3 only gets 14 miles per gallon in the city and 20 on the highway, this car makes up for it with an abundance of accessories, superior performance, modern style and multitudinous safety features.

Expert Insight

Experts and BMW enthusiasts agree the 2009 BMW M3 is the best luxury car on the market in performance, style, interior and quality.

Fuel Cell Cars That Run on Hydrogen

Hydrogen fuel cell cars have been on the drawing boards for years and, in 2010, manufacturers began producing them in prototype and test designs. Their advantage over gasoline internal combustion engines is running on hydrogen and potentially reducing our dependence on foreign oil. They do not emit harmful exhaust gases, which means fewer pollutants in the atmosphere. Developers must overcome challenges and technical difficulties before the hydrogen fuel cell car becomes efficient.

Honda Concept

Honda's FCX has some of the manufacturer's newest features in fuel cell design. Designed with a low, sleek and wide body, it ranks smaller than the Acura RL, but seems much roomer. The fuel-cell stack has been mounted in the middle of the vehicle for weight distribution, with two hydrogen tanks taking up space in the rear. The size of the stack has been decreased in size, with the hope that future testing will allow for increased storage within the confined space.

The front passenger instrument panel tilts up or down at 45 degrees depending upon the vehicle's speed, allowing for a tighter sense of security or one of a relaxed nature. The vehicle has built-in sensors and cameras that recognize the vehicle owner upon approach.

GM Sequel

GM has finalized the production of a sport model with the Sequel. It can deliver a 300-mile range between fill-ups. It has a five-seat capacity, all-wheel drive train and it can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately nine seconds. The vehicle exhibits exceptional control on snow, ice and uneven terrain. It can produce 42-percent more torque horse power than other comparable models, which allows for very fast starts. The Sequel has shorter braking distances. GM expected the release of a fuel cell production car in 2010

GM Equiniox

The GM Equinox has a four-seat crossover design, expected to last for 50,000 miles. It can withstand sub-zero temperatures, which have been troublesome for fuel cell-run vehicles. The Equinox delivers 32 mpg, with over a 600-mile rage between fill-ups. A 4-cylinder engine block drives the vehicle, with direct electronic fuel injection. The drive train consists of a 6-speed automatic transmission. The fuel cell stack has been originally designed by GM for building at its advanced technology division in Honeoye Falls, New York. The Ontario plant will actually produce the vehicle.

Ford Focus

The Ford Focus combines a number of amenities like high performance, good fuel economy, comfort, reduced noise and zero emissions. It's four-door arrangement has been modified slightly to package the hydrogen fuel cell stacks. The 2.0 liter engine has been rated at 140 horsepower, while the head contains a double overhead cam 16-valve arrangement. Mileage figures range from 25 mph in city conditions to 35 mph on the highway, due to an improved electronic fuel injection system.

Toyota FCHV

Toyota designed the FCHV with its Highlander model in mind. It has room for four passenger and has a storage area in the rear compartment. The hydrogen tanks mount in front of the rear wheels, with two more behind them for a total of four. Hydrogen leak and collision sensors have been installed around the vehicle and they shut off the tank valves in case of a leak or accident.

The FCHV uses a synergy system that can by found in electric cars, except the fuel cell stack replaces the engine and the gas tank gets swapped out with the hydrogen tanks. It has the mid-line battery storage, along with the powerful electric motor and control unit. The high-performance motor delivers a top speed of 96 mph and its range can extend to 500 miles and more, with the newest battery technology.