Friday, March 31, 2017

Golf R32 Vs. Mazda 3 Mps

Golf R32 Vs. Mazda 3 Mps

The Volkswagen Golf R32 and the Mazda 3 Mps are performance versions of the VW Golf and Mazda 3 produced by German automaker Volkswagen and Japanese automaker Mazda, respectively. Both are sporty, compact models that have much in common, although certain key differences are important for buyers to consider when comparing these or similar cars.

Volkswagen Golf R32 Information

    The Volkswagen Golf R32 was a performance version of the Golf sold in 2004. It was based on the Golf Mk4 model, which Volkswagen produced between 1997 and 2005. The Golf R32 was a two-door compact hatchback with all-wheel drive and a 3.2 liter VR6 engine rated at 240 hp. The engine was paired with a six-speed manual transmission. While other performance variants of the Golf Mk4 were produced in other years, the R32 was only available as a 2004 model.

Mazda 3 Mps Information

    The Mazda 3 has been in production since 2003 with the performance variant (known as the "Mazda 3 Mps" or "Mazdaspeed 3," depending on the market) arriving in 2007. It is available as a four-door hatchback with a front-wheel drive/front engine configuration. The Mazda 3 Mps has been available in two primary trim levels, "Sport" and "Grand Touring," with different optional accessories. Power comes from a turbocharged 2.3 liter, inline four-cylinder engine that produces 263 hp and is paired with a six-speed manual transmission. The Mazda 3 was redesigned for 2010, which meant a new Mps model as well. The new Mazda 3 Mps includes a 2.26 liter turbocharged engine.

Similarities

    The Volkswagen Golf R32 and the Mazda 3 Mps are similar in many ways. Both are performance versions of entry-level, compact hatchbacks. They both have an overall fuel economy rating in the mid-20s mpg. In terms of performance, both models use four-wheel disc brakes, sport-tuned suspensions, and 18-inch alloy wheels. In addition, the cars each offer seating for five and several of the same basic convenience features, including cruise control, auxiliary power outlets, and power windows and door locks.

Key Differences

    One of the biggest differences between the Volkswagen Golf R32 and the Mazda 3 Mps is the engine configurations. While the Golf R32 uses a naturally aspirated six-cylinder engine, the Mazda 3 Mps uses a turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces slightly more power than the VW. In addition to having a larger, non-turbo engine, the Golf R32 also uses an all-wheel drive system as opposed to the Mazda's front-wheel drive. Still, performance characteristics are actually quite similar between the two car. For example, in a test of 0-60 mph acceleration, the Golf R32 clocked in at 6.8 seconds, while the Mazda 3 Mps was just a half-second faster at 6.3 seconds.

Comparison for Buyers

    For buyers interested in a sport compact model, both the Volkswagen Golf R32 and the Mazda 3 Mps deserve consideration. While the Golf R32 was only produced in 2004, it was still priced initially higher than comparable Mazda 3 Mps models from 2007-2009. For buyers looking for a new car, the 2010 Mazdaspeed 3 offers a modern sport compact with technological refinements that were not available on any of the earlier models from either automaker.

How to Buy a Lexus LS400

How to Buy a Lexus LS400

The Lexus LS400 is the second generation of Lexus' LS series, debuting in 1994 and production continuing through 1997. Because the LS400 is no longer being commercially produced, you'll need to locate and purchase your LS400 through a private seller or used car dealership. Otherwise you can purchase the latest in the Lexus LS line, currently the LS11. Buying a Lexus LS400 requires you to locate a used car dealership or private seller within the radius in which you are willing to travel to purchase the car.

Instructions

    1

    Specify a radius in which you will search for used LS400s. While a smaller radius won't requires as much travelling, it may be more difficult to locate a car within a radius of 25, 50 or even 100 miles. On the other hand, a larger radius may provide a larger sampling of cars from which to choose, but it will require much more travelling.

    2

    Identify the used car dealerships in your area. Use classified advertisements in your local newspaper, vehicle and dealerships fliers usually located near newspaper stands, or even online vehicle dealership consortium sites such as AutoTrader or EbayMotors.

    3

    Contact used luxury car dealerships within your radius first to inquire about any LS400s they may have on their lots. Also ask them about any auctions or other sellers they might be familiar with who could have an LS400. Used dealerships typically gather their inventory through car auctions or through other dealerships, in addition to private sellers or buyers who trade vehicles in.

    4

    Determine the buying price for the LS400 you locate through your local dealerships. According to Kelley Blue Book, the suggested maximum suggested retail price of a 1994 Lexus LS400 is $8,475 while the maximum suggested retail price of a 1997 Lexus LS400 is $13,350. Both values are based on a car in excellent condition with only one mile on the odometer, so be sure to evaluate the retail value of any Lexus LS400s you locate using Kelley Blue Book or another vehicle price estimator.

    5

    Secure financing for the purchase of your LS400 and finalize any paperwork including title transfers, vehicle registration and vehicle insurance.

Thursday, March 30, 2017

How to Compare CNG & LPG Vehicles

How to Compare CNG & LPG Vehicles

Vehicles using fossil fuels such as diesel and petroleum emit greenhouse gases into the environment, which are considered a key causative factor for global warming. Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) are fast becoming preferred alternatives because of their environment-friendliness and lower costs. Both LPG and CNG are fossil-derived fuels, but emit lesser amounts of toxic greenhouse gases resulting in reduced pollution. Many vehicles using CNG or LPG are bi-fuel, which means to say that they can run on either petroleum or CNG/LPG.

Instructions

    1

    Compare CNG vehicles with their LPG counterparts for their environment-friendliness. LPG is constituted mainly of propane (C3H8) with a little butane (C4H10). In CNG, the key ingredient is methane (CH4). The lesser the carbon-to-hydrogen ratio in the chemical formula of the gas, the better it is for the environment. Thus, methane is better for the environment provided it undergoes complete combustion.

    2

    Compare CNG vehicles with LPG for their vehicle tank storage requirements. Since LPG is liquefied at normal pressure, it is portable and can be stored in smaller and lighter vehicle storage tanks. CNG is not liquefied, so it requires very high pressure for storage. Vehicles for CNG need to have sturdy and heavy tanks.

    3

    Compare CNG vehicles with LPG for suitability and performance. Given the bulkiness of CNG vehicle tanks, these vehicles are less spacious. LPG/CNG vehicles are known to have a slightly lower initial pickup but greater acceleration. You may experience cold start problems with these vehicles. It is also important to check for the availability of LNG/CNG in your area to know if you can have consistent fuel supply. LPG fits best with light vehicles such as cars and small vans that run on petroleum, while CNG is ideal for heavy vehicles operating on diesel.

    4

    Compare CNG and LPG vehicles for safety. CNG is lighter than air and therefore does not puddle. It also has a higher ignition temperature, which means it is difficult to ignite. LPG, on the other hand, is heavier than air and has a lower ignition temperature.

    5

    Compare CNG and LPG vehicles for the expenses involved. Find out the costs involved for installing CNG/LPG in your area. Calculate running costs depending on the cost per gallon of CNG/LPG and your vehicle mileage and see which is lower. Both LPG and CNG installations require frequent inspections. So, you also need to account for maintenance expenses. Find out if there are any special government concessions for CNG/LPG vehicles in your region that can benefit you.

How Can I Look Up a Car History Report?

How Can I Look Up a Car History Report?

When purchasing a used vehicle online or at a dealership, a car history report is an invaluable tool that helps consumers make sure their future buy is not laced with problems. With just a vehicle identification number, a car history report can be pulled up in an instant through the Internet.

Online Vehicle History Report

    The first place that one can look up a car history report is through an online vehicle history report agency. There are four major companies that put together car history reports. Each one offers different services and different aspects of the car history report.

    The four major agencies are Carfax; AutoCheck; Free VINCheck; National Motor Vehicle Title Information Systems Database.

    If you log on to the Carfax website, (carfax.com), it promises to show any accident history of the car and whether the car has had title problems because of salvage junk or flood. Its report will also bring back fraud damage claims and make sure the odometers were not rolled back. One report costs $29.99.

    If you choose AutoCheck, (autocheck.com) note that it is connected to Experian, which is credit reporting company. It, too, promises, to have thorough reports with accident information and any past problems of the vehicle. It will also show everywhere the car was registered. The cost for one report is $20.

    To use Carfax and Autocheck, it requires the VIN of the car you are looking up and identification and credit card information from the consumer who is purchasing the report.

    A free method of seeing if the car is stolen is by visiting FreeVINCheck (NICB.org) This website is a free search by the National Insurance Crime Bureau. This helps consumers ensure the vehicle they are purchasing was not obtained illegally and the title is intact.

    Finally, consumers can use another free service through the U.S. government to help in their decision. The National Motor Vehicle Title Information Systems Database is a United States Department of Justice website that has contracted with Auto Data Direct and CARCO group to deliver vehicle history reports. So far, only 38 states are participating in this service. Obtaining the information is free.

    All FreeVINCheck and the NMVTISD require is the VIN number of the vehicle you are looking up.

Dealer

    If you do not want to obtain the car's history report by yourself, the next best place to get it is from the dealer. All reputable dealers will have the vehicle history report on file at the time of purchase, and they should be willing to show it to you for free. Once at the dealership, it's as easy as asking for the car history report; they generally will print one out for you in an instant.

Car History Report Controversy

    While the car history report seems like a valuable tool, a 2009 survey by "Consumer Reports" magazine found that many of the car history websites will give cars a clean bill of health, when in reality there is damage that was not reported. When a car is in an accident, and the owner did not have collision insurance or if the car was a rental the title can still maintain the car is clean. Also if the car is not deemed a total loss by the insurance companies, it can still have a clean title. It is recommended that a certified and trained mechanic examine any used car before purchase.

2007 TrailBlazer SS Performance

2007 TrailBlazer SS Performance

In 2002, Chevrolet introduced a midsize SUV called the TrailBlazer. The General Motors marque waited until 2006, however, to introduce a sports-oriented trim for the vehicle called the "Super Sport," abbreviated as the SS. The next year, 2007, the SS trim was split into two: the SS1 (or 1SS) and the higher-end SS3 (or 3SS).

Manufacture

    Apart from spitting the SS trim of the TrailBlazer into two levels, Chevrolet did not make any changes. The 2007 TrailBlazer SS still had the 6-liter V-8 engine--the most powerful engine for the vehicle up to that point--and it was paired with a four-speed automatic transmission. The two/rear-wheel drive (2WD) versions of the SS trims weighed the least of all the trims, while its all-wheel drive (AWD) counterparts were the heaviest. The '07 TrailBlazer SS also had a sport-tuned suspension and 20-inch alloy wheels.

Engine Output and Fuel Economy

    The engine of the 2007 Chevy TrailBlazer SS generated 395 horsepower at 5,400 revolutions per minute (rpm) and 400 pound-feet of torque at 4,400 rpm. The two-wheel-drive vehicles got 15 miles per gallon for city driving and 19 mpg for highway driving, while the all-wheel-drive versions got 14 mpg for city driving and 17 mpg for highway driving.

Driving and Handling

    With the same engine that was used the year before, the 2007 Chevy TrailBlazer SS could accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds. Also, it could cover a quarter-mile distance in 14 seconds at 100 mph. The turning diameter of the '07 TrailBlazer SS was 36 feet.

Reception

    Car editors acknowledged Chevrolet's efforts to emphasize the "sport" in "sport utility vehicle" with the introduction of the SS trim. With the 2007 model year receiving no updates, however, its relative lack of originality--some writers noted that the vehicle was essentially a Corvette on an SUV platform--was more apparent than before. The TrailBlazer would last for two more model years before Chevrolet ceased production in 2008.

Price

    The original manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRPs) for the SS1 2WD and SS3 two-wheel-drive versions of the 2007 TrailBlazer were $31,320 and $34,885, respectively. For the all-wheel-drive versions, the MSRPs were $33,620 and $37,125. As of 2010, Kelley Blue Book estimates the price range value of the '07 TrailBlazer SS at around $22,000 to $30,000.

BMW 320i Problems

BMW 320i Problems

The BMW 320i, designated the E21 by the factory, was the first generation of the 3 Series, which would go on to become one of BMW's most popular models ever. It replaced the 2002 and was sold in the U.S. from 1977 to 1983. From 1977 to 1979 it was powered a 2.0-liter inline-4 and from 1980 to 1983 was powered by a 1.8-liter inline-4. It was replaced in 1984 by the E30 3 Series.

Engine

    The engines in 320s are durable if properly taken care of with regular oil changes and tune-ups. Overheating and blown head gaskets are a common failure, however. Look for warped heads when evaluating a used 320i. The emissions system on the 320 is complex and the thermal reactors can be problematic. If you live in an area where the emissions equipment needs to be fully intact, the reactor runs $400 to $500 (as of 2009).

Fuel System

    All 320s came with Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection. The system is generally pretty reliable, but poor running can be the result of a number of issues such as vacuum leaks. Also, the fuel lines should be checked to ensure that they are not leaking. The lines were made from plastic that can become brittle over time and crack.

Suspension

    320s will usually suffer from a front end shake at around 50-55 mph. This is caused in part by a front suspension design that relies on the sway bar to control the fore and aft movement of the control arms. The shimmy itself is caused by worn swaybar bushings. Models made from 77-79 have a two-piece bushing. This was replaced the by a soft, one-piece bushing with a metal sleeve in 1980 that is supposedly superior. To fix the problem the control arms, upper strut bearing, wheel bearings, control arm bushings and steering rack bushings need to be inspected. Any worn parts should be replaced. There are firmer eurethane bushings available from Bavarian Auto.

Chassis

    The front chassis on the 320 can develop stress cracks. The fix involves welding in a frame rail brace like the one that Alpina offered. These are no longer made by Alpina, but reproductions are available.

Expert Insight

    Keep in mind that the 320 is now a 25-30-year-old car. One that has been poorly taken care if will probably have more than just the problems listed above and will take considerable time and expense to truly put right. That said, these are classic BMWs that can be fun to own and drive.

Monday, March 27, 2017

The Best Way to Calculate MPG

Miles per gallon shows how efficient a car uses gasoline. More efficient cars use less gasoline and reduce emissions into the air. In addition, if you notice a significant drop in the miles per gallon your car is getting, it may reflect a problem with the car that needs to be repaired.

Calculating Miles per Gallon

    Many new cars today automatically calculate the miles per gallon the car receives. For those with older models that do not calculate mpg automatically, simply divide the amount of miles driven by the amount of fuel used. To do this, fill your tank full of gas and reset the trip odometer. The next time you fill up your tank, divide the number of miles driven by the number of gallons you had to put into your car. For example, if you drove 360 miles and you put 20 gallons of gas in to refill your tank, you car got 18 miles per gallon.

Improving Miles Per Gallon

    There are several practical steps individuals can take to make sure they are getting the maximum miles per gallon from their car. Driving the speed limit on the highway can increase efficiency---once a car starts going faster than 60 miles per hour, the efficiency of the car decreases. Also, removing excess weight from the car will require it to use less energy. Finally, minimizing the time a car idles will improve efficiency; when a car is idling, it is using fuel but not covering any distance.

Calculating Gallons Per Mile

    Two Duke professors claim that instead of looking at miles per gallon, the best way to measure costs associated with driving is to compare how many gallons it takes to drive a certain number of miles. According to the article, the average American drives about 10,000 miles per year. If you purchases a car that got 18 miles per gallon rather than 15 miles per gallon, even though the difference is only three miles per gallon, your car would need 111 less gallons of fuel for the year. If you purchases a car that got 50 miles per gallon rather than 35 miles per gallon, even though the difference is 15 miles per gallon, the car would only need about 85 more gallons of gas per year.

How to Check For Bondo Body Filler in a Car Body

How to Check For Bondo Body Filler in a Car Body

Before you buy that used car you may want to check to see if there was ever any body damage repairs done. Is it all metal behind the paint, or body filler too?
This process will detect larger filled areas but may not detect very small areas of filler.

Instructions

    1

    Squat down along the rear side of the car and look forward, keeping your eyes along the profile of the body lines, looking for any waves, dips, lumps or imperfections. They are clues that body filler has been used.

    2

    If you see any waves, dips or lumps, go to that area and use your knuckles to knock-knock-knock lightly on and around the suspicious area.
    You want to hear a metal sound and not a dull thumping sound. Practice a bit ahead of time if you can; metal has a distinctive sound and body filler has a dull sound.
    Ideally you should knock-knock along all sections of the car, particularly on the lower sides.

    3

    You also want to look very closely into the paint in suspicious areas to see if you can spot any cracks or splits in the paint, which could be body filler that has shrunk and left open splits.

    4

    If you are liberty to poke a little and you have your awl or pick with you, you could actually poke into an area and scratch out body filler if it is there.
    If there is only metal behind the paint you will only scratch out the paint and layers of primer and hit metal. If scratching out body filler, it will be chunky and much thicker than just paint and primer.
    A hot spot for bondo filler, especially on older cars, is just below the rear quarter panel, behind the rear wheel. This area tends to rust out, especially if the car came from an area where road salt is used.

Car CD and Radio Specifications

Car CD and Radio Specifications

It is important to take CD and radio specifications into account when buying a new car, repairing an old car or updating your car's stereo system. According to the Car Stereo website, owners should consider sound options, wiring and the size and shape of specs when working with radios and CD players. Specs will also change as systems become more advanced. Specifically, standard car stereos will often have less-advanced specs than surround-sound systems with added speakers and subwoofers.

Sound Basics

    Increasing the number of car speakers will not necessarily improve sound quality. Car Stereo states that automobile systems with too many speakers can experience frequency glitches and system malfunctions. Basic car systems should be equipped with a pair of front speakers with sound adjustment mechanisms which can operate clearly at 60 Hz. To enhance the sound, buy an amplifier with a maximum power rating of 100 watts.

CD Players and Subwoofers

    A smooth signal is one of the most important specs to consider when buying a car CD player, according to Car Stereo. Choosing an individual CD player over a cassette tape/CD combination device will also ensure a stronger sound. One of the best ways to boost CD sound output (specifically bass frequencies) is adding subwoofers. Use two 10-inch subwoofers with a maximum sound energy output of 200 watts.

Upgrading Designs

    Upgrading car radio and CD systems may mean adding other components. Every subwoofer should be connected to its own amplifier to ensure clear channels, though a single "two-channel amplifier" is an option to power dual subwoofers if you are on a tight budget. Including dual sound equalizers and rear speakers are good options if they are within your budget. All amplifiers should also be equipped with RCA sound technology for crisp, clean sound.

How to Get an Auto History Report

How to Get an Auto History Report

As a smart consumer, the best thing you can do when you're in the market for a used car is to obtain a vehicle history report. Without this report, you have only the seller's word regarding possible mechanical problems and previous accidents involving the car. Car history reports also detail crucial information such as whether the car has been in a flood, reported as a lemon or has had the odometer fraudulently reset. An auto history report can be easily obtained online.

Instructions

    1

    Obtain the vehicle identification number --- also known as the VIN --- of the car in question. You can find this on the title, attached to the driver's door frame or just above the hood of the car.

    2

    Choose a vehicle history reporting company to use to obtain your report. CARFAX, AutoCheck and VIN Car History are some examples of companies that offer online reports.

    3

    Select the type of report you want to receive. Companies typically offer a one-time report and multiple or unlimited reports, for varying fees. Fees, as of 2011, typically range from around $6 to $45, depending on the option you choose.

    4

    Enter the VIN on the reporting site, pay the fee with an accepted credit card and obtain your report. Always print a copy of the report for future reference and to use as a bargaining tool.

Saturday, March 25, 2017

How to Negotiate a Better Deal for a New Car

The average new-car price is nearly $30,000, but you may not need to spend the amount on the window sticker. Most dealers are willing to negotiate to knock something off.

Instructions

    1

    Know how much the dealer paid. Edmunds is a good source for this information. When you look the car up by year, make and model on Edmunds, you will be able to see the dealer cost for the car and the list price. Edmunds also has a data base of the current holdbacks for car dealers. These are rebates that the car manufacturer pays the dealership for each car sold. You can also find out the dealer incentives on Edmunds, which is additional money the dealership gets for selling a car. To determine the true cost for the dealership, subtract the holdbacks and incentives from the price, then add $300 to $500 for advertising costs and $800 to $1,000 for the delivery fee. This will give you a ballpark figure of what the dealer has to pay the manufacturer. You now know how low your offer can be without the dealership losing money.

    2

    Get internet quotes. Internet quotes will help you determine where the best deals are in your local area. You enter your zip code and the make and model of the car you want. You will see the price of the car at local dealerships.

    3

    Email dealerships directly for a quote on the car. Sending a direct request to a dealership can have a beneficial effect. Depending on how badly someone wants to make the sale, they may knock a few hundred dollars off. Keep in mind that the salespeople at car dealerships work on commission, so they have a little bit of money that they can forfeit if they really want to move the car.

    4

    Get the pricing information from the sticker on the car once you are at the dealership. You have a good idea of what the dealership has to pay for the car. Now you need to know what they are asking for the vehicle. This will give you a basis to begin your negotiations.

    5

    Give the dealership a firm offer, which should be the invoice price minus the rebates, or the number that you figured out with the help of Edmunds. The salesperson may tell you that your numbers are not correct, and in fact, they may not. You can ask to see the invoice to verify. Some salespeople will show you the invoice. Others may refuse. If they refuse, you can assume that your numbers are correct and continue your negotiation from there.

    6

    Walk out. If you continue to sit there even when the negotiation isn't going your way, the salesperson will likely assume that you are planning to buy regardless of how the negotiation comes out. Starting to leave shows them that you are serious about the negotiation and that you are not going to accept just any offer that they present to you.

Friday, March 24, 2017

How to Lease a Vehicle for a Business

How to Lease a Vehicle for a Business

Leasing a vehicle for a business is an easy process, as long as you know the type of vehicle that best fits your needs and the budget you have to work with. While leasing a vehicle normally results in a lower monthly payment than purchasing, the company will also no equity in the vehicle they are using. In any case, leasing a vehicle has its benefits, like keeping a company from taking on the expenses associated with paying cash for or financing a vehicle.

Instructions

    1

    Find the right vehicle. Depending on your business type and kind of car or truck for which you are searching, it can take some time to find the right vehicle. You can complete preliminary research on the Internet. Without visiting dealerships, you can compare vehicles and determine which ones do not meet your needs.

    2

    Contact dealerships. Once you find vehicles that meet your needs, it is time to contact local dealerships. Larger dealerships, especially those that specialize in commercial trucks and vans, have a full-time fleet sales manager who is charged with putting lease and purchase packages together for businesses. In most cases, the fleet manager is a high-volume salesperson, making a living by selling a high volume of vehicles, not necessarily making a large amount of profit on each one.

    3

    Determine the best terms. Leases range in length from two years to five years, with mileage restrictions ranging from 7,500 to 20,000 miles per year, depending on the leasing company. In some cases, business leases may also be available with even more miles per year. Think about the driving habits of company employees, and choose the annual mileage that works best. If you pay for more miles than you need, monthly payments will be needlessly high. As far as term, the longer the lease in months, the lower the monthly payment.

    4

    Compare quotes. Get quotes for similar vehicles from multiple dealerships. When requesting quotes from the fleet manager, be specific about the length and mileage restrictions you need; this will allow an apples-to-apples comparison of lease quotes with similar terms. Make sure that all monthly payments factor in tax, otherwise some may seem too low.

    5

    Choose the best option. When evaluating competing quotes for business vehicle leases, compare them on more than just price. The cheapest vehicle to lease may not be the best for your business. If necessary, test drive vehicles or have the employees who will be using them come to the dealership to help with the decision.

Wednesday, March 22, 2017

The Specifications of a 1988 Toyota Supra

The 1988 Toyota Supra was one of the model-year entries in the third generation production cycle for this sports car, which lasted from 1986 to 1992. Two models were produced for this model year: the Base and the Turbo or Turbo-A. The latter trim was so named because of the turbocharged engine that was introduced for the car to compete in Group-A touring car championships.

Engine and Performance

    The Base trim of the 1988 Toyota Supra had a 3-liter 200-horsepower in-line six-cylinder engine with 188 ft. lbs.of torque and a compression ratio of 9.2 to 1. The Turbo model had a turbocharged six-cylinder engine with 30 more horses and was capable of running from zero to 60 mphin the mid-seven-second range. The turbocharged engine could produce 246 ft. lbs. of torque and had a compression ratio of 8.4 to 1.

Transmission and Fuel Economy

    The standard transmission for the 1988 Toyota Supra was a five-speed automatic with overdrive, although getting a four-speed manual with overdrive was made an option. With a 19-gallon gas tank, the '88 Supra could get around 18 mpg for city driving and around 23 mpg for highway driving.

Interior

    With standard seating for four people, the 1988 Toyota Supra averaged around 35 inches for headroom and legroom, around 52 inches for shoulder room, and around 51 inches for hip room. The vehicle had power windows and door locks, air conditioning, cruise control, tilt steering, and stereo system with AM/FM radio and cassette deck among its standard interior features. Leather seats and sunroofs were made optional.

Exterior

    A two-door coupe, the 1988 Toyota Supra measured 182 inches long, 69 inches wide and 52 inches tall with a wheelbase of 102 inches. Curb weight was 3,459 lbs. for the Base trim and 3,530 for the Turbo-A. The vehicle rode on 16-inch alloy wheels, and the turning diameter was around 35 feet.

Price

    The original manufacturer's suggested retail price for the Base model of the 1988 Toyota Supra was $21,740. For the Turbo, it was $24,210. As of 2010, an '88 Supra could be purchased within a price range of $3,000 to $10,000.

Dodge 2.5 Performance

Dodge used 2.5 liter engines in the Daytona, Shadow, Spirit and other vehicles between 1986 and 1993. AllPar.com notes that the Dodge 2.5-liter engine was the "last gasp" of the once legendary slant-six engine.

Construction and Design

    The Dodge 2.5-liter engine was made of a cast iron block with aluminum alloy heads and counter-rotating balance shafts. It had an 8-valve, single-overhead-camshaft (SOHC) configuration with roller followers, hydraulic lifters and an electronic, throttle body fuel-injection system.

Performance Specs

    The Dodge 2.5-liter engine had a displacement of 153 cubic inches, with a compression ratio of 8.9-to-1 and a bore and stroke of 3.44 inches by 4.09 inches. It achieved its maximum torque of 135 lb-ft at 2,800 rpm and a maximum 100 bhp at 4,800rpm, giving it a bhp-to-liter ratio of 40-to-1. The maximum rpm for the Dodge 2.5-liter engine was 5,950.

Mileage, Fuel and Fluids

    The Dodge 2.5-liter engine earned an EPA-estimated mileage of 27 miles per gallon in the city and 33 miles per gallon on the highway in a 1993 Sundance with a five-speed transmission. It used 87-octane regular unleaded gasoline and held four quarts of oil and nine quarts of coolant.

Tuesday, March 21, 2017

How to Get a Free Car VIN Report

A free car VIN report will check stolen vehicle reports and title changes on used cars. It will help you avoid buying a stolen car. The VIN report is free and easy to get. It takes only a few seconds to find one through the NICB (National Insurance Crime Bureau). Here's how to get your free car VIN report in just a few minutes.

Instructions

    1

    First, copy down the car VIN number. This will be used when you get your free car VIN report.

    2

    Go to a free car VIN report website like nicb.org or one of its affiliates. Locate the VIN check box and enter your VIN number into the appropriate text field.

    3

    Click submit and then receive your report. It should be downloaded automatically on your screen. Review the report to see if any reports of theft, or title changes are present on that particular car.

    4

    Purchase a complete vehicle history report on the car from CARFAX or Autocheck for additional information.

Monday, March 20, 2017

MPG of a Ford 3.7L DOHC Engine

The Ford 3.7L dual overhead cam V6 engine was developed for the 2011 Ford line of trucks and cars to replace the antiquated 4L V6. The 3.7L V6 is the base engine for the F-150 pickup and Mustang.

Based on the 3.5

    The 2011 version of the 3.7L V6 was based on the 3.5L engine family installed on Ford SUVs and crossover front-wheel-drive versions. The 3.7 version was lighter and had a better airflow pattern and fuel mixture system for better fuel efficiency.

Power

    For a light engine, the 3.7 provided hefty power at 302 horsepower and 278 lb.-feet of torque. The torque gives Ford vehicles acceleration and hauling power. The 2011 F-150 equipped with a 3.7L V6 could haul up to 6,100 lbs.

MPG

    Two-wheel drive F-150s made 17 mpg in urban driving and 23 mpg on the highway. Four-wheel drive models earned 16 and 21 mpg. The 2011 Ford Mustang equipped with the 3.6L V6 achieved 19 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.

How Do I Cancel My GM Extended Warranty?

The GM Extended Warranty, officially known as the GM Protection Plan, can be canceled anytime prior to the expiration date. If you cancel within the first 60 days, you are eligible for a full refund of the warranty. After the 60-day period, the warranty refund is pro-rated, meaning that you'll get a portion of your money back depending on how much of the warranty term and mileage allotment is remaining.

Instructions

    1

    Find your GM Extended Warranty contract. The contract should have been provided to your by the dealer at the time of sale. The contract has your customer number on it. If you cannot locate it, the warranty representative should still be able to help you cancel your warranty.

    2

    Read your current odometer display to determine the vehicle mileage. Write the figure down. The amount of your refund depends upon the length of time remaining and the mileage allowance remaining.

    3

    Contact the GM Extended Warranty cancellation line by calling 1-800-631-5590. Wait to speak with an associate. Tell the associate you wish to cancel your GM Extended Warranty. The associate will request information from you, including but not limited to your customer number and current mileage. The associate may also need your name, address or other personal information. Once the associate has the information, he can look up your account and tell you the amount of your refund.

    4

    Determine if you want to cancel your warranty based on the pro-rated refund amount. If you wish to cancel, continue with the process over the phone. If not, tell the associate you appreciate his help and hang up.

Sunday, March 19, 2017

2007 Hyundai Sonata SE Options

2007 Hyundai Sonata SE Options

The Hyundai Sonata SE was a new trim option for the 2007 model year. As a four-door, five-passenger mid-size family sedan, it comes equipped with a V-6 engine and a five-speed automatic transmission. The 2007 sedan also had a number of options available aside from its standard features.

Preferred Package

    The Preferred Package for the 2007 Hyundai Sonata SE includes two comfort and convenience options. The first is a power driver seat that offers a variety of adjustment settings. The second option is an auto-dimming rear-view mirror with an integrated HomeLink garage door transmitter and compass.

Premium Package

    Another option package for the 2007 Hyundai Sonata SE was the Premium Package. This includes the Preferred Package in addition to numerous other comfort and appearance features. The package offers consumers XM AM/FM satellite radio with a six-CD changer and upgraded speakers, power or manual sunroof, as well as steering wheel mounted remote audio and headlight controls. For appearance, this package includes chrome and bright trim around side windows, front and rear alloy wheels, V-rated tires and black sidewall.

Convenience

    There were a number of standalone options available with the 2007 Hyundai Sonata SE. Carpeted floor mats, a cargo mat, trunk cargo net, cargo tray and mud guards were extras that consumers could choose for added convenience or to enhance the appearance of the car.

Color Options

    The 2007 Hyundai Sonata SE was offered in a wide range of paint colors. Consumers could choose from more classic shades including powder white pearl, Arctic white and ebony black, bright silver, steel gray and golden beige. There were also more vibrant colors available including silver blue, deepwater blue, aqua blue and cherry red.

Friday, March 17, 2017

Laws Regarding Used Cars

Laws Regarding Used Cars

Buying a used car usually involves risk, and trusting the person selling the car is not always the best option. There are many laws regarding used cars and their sale. Keeping these laws in mind will help keep you from getting swindled and left with a lemon with no recourse to get your money back. It is always a good idea to buy used cars from a dealer, but if you choose to buy from a private seller, there are things you should consider.

Licensing

    All states require a license to sell used cars as a business. There are laws against non-licensed car salesmen from selling more than a couple used cars per year. One method some used car sellers use is called curbstoning. Curbstoning is a practice in which the seller puts the car on the street, away from their home or place of business, to reduce the connection between them and the car they are selling. While these cars might sell for a cheaper price than those at a dealership, the likelihood of something going wrong rises, and if something does go wrong, the person who sold it is much harder to locate. Violating the law against curbstoning can result in fines of up to $3,000 per violation.

Registration Laws

    Each state has its own laws regarding the sale, registration and titling of used cars. Some states require the seller to give valid registration, while others do not require this. You should ask your Department of Motor Vehicles what is required in your state. Transferring a valid title is always necessary in order to take ownership of a vehicle. Titles need to be signed and notarized before they can be filed and the car legally put in the buyer's name. Making a mistake on the paperwork can cause a delay in the transfer of the title, so it is important to carefully read everything, and fill out all the paper work correctly and accurately.

Receipts

    Many states require a bill of sale for a used car. Laws regarding used cars usually require a receipt that shows the exact sale price of the car. The buyer should get the original receipt, and the seller keeps a copy for himself. This is especially important in cases of fraud; if you find out your used car is no good, your receipt should provide a way to seek compensation for the faulty car.

Thursday, March 16, 2017

How to Compare Car Specs Side by Side

When you're in the market to buy a new car, it isn't a very good idea to consider only one type of vehicle. You have to comparison shop to ensure that you are really getting the best deal in price, safety and utility. There are many different specs and features of a car that you can compare side by side, but these are some of the most important things to examine when you're deciding which car is best for your needs.

Instructions

    1

    Look at each vehicle's fuel economy. How many miles does each car get on the highway and in the city per 1 gallon of gas?

    2

    Look at what type of engine each car is built with. How many liters and cylinders does it have? The more liters, the more powerful the car. Larger cars usually require a higher number of cylinders to be able to move efficiently. Determine each car's horsepower, which is also a measure of how powerful it is.

    3

    Compare the safety features of each car on your list. For example, are there driver- and passenger-side airbags? Are there frontal and side airbags? What about curtain airbags to protect the head? Does the vehicle come equipped with an alarm system? Are there child safety door locks?

    4

    Look at the car's transmission type. Is it automatic or manual (stick shift)? If it's a stick, is it a five- or six-speed manual overdrive?

    5

    Find out what additional features come standard with the car, such as a CD player, subwoofer, heated seats or sunroof. Are leather seats optional or standard? What type of tires come with the car?

    6

    Compare the manufacturer's suggested retail price of each car with standard features.

    7

    Find out which colors (both interior and exterior) the cars you are comparing come in. Some models of cars may not come standard with the specific color you are seeking.

    8

    Determine the number of people the vehicle can seat comfortably as well as its trunk capacity. If you have a large family you'll obviously want something to accommodate everyone.

Wednesday, March 15, 2017

Berlinetta Camaro Specs

The Berlinetta Camaro was a Chevrolet model that made its debut in 1978 and transformed the Camaro's look from "tacked on battering ram look to an almost bumperless appearance," according to The Camaro Registry. In 1986, the Berlinetta was discontinued early in the model year due to falling sales which began in 1984. As a step above the Camaro Sport Coup, but below the Z-28 in terms of performance, the Berlinetta had a relatively short lifespan.

Engine Specs

    In its final year of production, the Berlinetta Camaro came with one of two engine options. The base model was a 2.8-liter, V6 engine which put out 112 horsepower. The other option was a 5.0-liter V8 engine with a four-barrel carburetor and put out 155 horsepower and generated 245 ft.-lb. of torque. The Berlinetta was 192 inches long, 72.8 inches wide, 50.2 inches tall and had a wheelbase of 101 inches, according to a Maciolek Engineering website.

Exterior

    According to the Camaro Registry, the Berlinetta was equipped with a different suspension system than the Sport Coup or the Z28, allowing for a softer ride. It was equipped with gold "Berlinetta" badging on the rear bumper and the sides, an optional five-speed transmission and had locking wire wheel covers. The Berlinetta also had special graphics, which included pin striping on the lower body and the optional aluminum wheels were stamped with the Berlinetta design.

Interior

    In its later years, according to the Camaro Registry, the Berlinetta featured deep carpeting on the rear-wheel houses, custom cloth interior and additional body insulation. It also was equipped with a rear storage well cover and a custom Berlinetta steering wheel.

Tuesday, March 14, 2017

How to Get Titles for Old Cars

How to Get Titles for Old Cars

If you've misplaced your old car's title when you need to sell it, or if you need to know if a car you're buying has a salvage title or junk title on it, you can resolve both issues easily enough. If you're selling and the car has one of these brandings, also known as "damaged title," there are steps you can take to clear the title again.

Instructions

    1

    Look through the lower right corner of the windshield to read off the 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number that's bolted to the dashboard.

    2

    Conduct an online check of the VIN (see Resources) for any outstanding liens, a salvage title or junk title. Insurers and law enforcement officials can brand a car a "salvage title" if it's considered a total loss, for example, after a wreck. A junk title is when a body shop or similar business reports to the DMV that the car has been dismantled or reassembled from different parts.

    3

    Pull up your local Dept. of Motor Vehicles site if you lost your title. Download an application for a replacement title. You'll need your VIN for this. You'll also need the signature of any lien holders, like the lender of your auto loan.

    4

    Deliver the application to the DMV in the manner instructed on the form. Some states allow online applications if there's no lien.

    5

    Eliminate a salvage title on a car you already own by providing documentation to the DMV that you've restored your car to roadworthy condition.

GT 500 Specifications

GT 500 Specifications

The first model of the Shelby Mustang GT500 was produced in 1967. This classic muscle car was one of the most popular in the series and new models continue to be built today. The most recent model of the Ford GT500 is the 2011 Ford Shelby GT500, which comes in a coupe or convertible style both seating four. The specifications for the GT500 are useful in comparing and determining many aspects of the vehicle.

Power

    The engine of the 2011 Shelby GT500 is a 5.4 liter, four-valve, double-overhead cam, V8 with a maximum horsepower of 550 at 6,250 rpm. It offers a maximum of 510 foot-pounds of torque at 4,250 rpm. The engine displaces 330-cubic inches. The bore and stroke are 3.552 and 4.165 inches. The compression ratio is 8.4:1. The Shelby GT500 is a rear-wheel drive vehicle.

Dimensions

    The front and rear tires of the Shelby GT500 are P255/40Z19 and P285/35ZR19. The wheelbase is measured at 107.1 inches. The total length is 188.2 inches. Height is 54.5 inches for the coupe, and 55.9 inches for the convertible. The total width is 77.9 inches. The total weight of the coupe is 3,820 pounds while the convertible weighs 3,969 pounds.

Colors

    The 2011 GT500 comes in a variety of colors, these include race red, kona blue metallic, grabber blue, performance white, ingot silver metallic, black and sterling grey metallic. Interior color schemes are charcoal black with black seat stripes, charcoal black with white seat stripes, charcoal black with silver seat stripes, charcoal black with blue seat stripes or charcoal black with red seat stripes. The stripe colors are matched to the interior color schemes and include black, white, red, blue or silver.

Miscellaneous

    The 2011 Shelby GT500 takes premium gasoline and holds a maximum of 16 gallons. The fuel economy is measured at 15 miles per gallon city and 23 miles per gallon highway. It offers a six-speed manual transmission with a final drive of 3.55. The front brakes are 14 inch in diameter vented discs with four-piston aluminum calipers, while the rear brakes are 11.8 inch in diameter vented discs with two-piston aluminum calipers. The front suspension is an independent MacPherson strut with "Reverse L" lower control arm and 34-mm stabilizer bar while the rear suspension is a three-link solid axle with coil springs, Panhard rod, 24-mm stabilizer bar with twin-tube and gas shocks.

Sunday, March 12, 2017

How Dog Gearbox Works

How Dog Gearbox Works

Traditional Gearbox

    Diagram of a traditional gearbox

    The main external parts of a manual transmission are the clutch and the gearbox. In a traditional gearbox, the gears are arranged in a logical fashion: first and second gear across from each other, third and fourth gear across from each other and fifth gear and reverse across from each other. This enables the driver to switch fairly easily between consecutive gears, especially between the often-used first and second gears.

Dog Gearbox

    Diagram of a dog gearbox

    A dog gearbox, also called a dog leg gearbox, is arranged somewhat differently. Although the gears are still placed in a logical order, the reverse gear is located across from first gear instead of across from fifth gear. Therefore, it is easier to switch between second and third gear, but more difficult to switch between first and second gear. In fact, it is the method of switching between first and second gear that gives the gearbox its name. The up-and-over movement required to make this switch resembles the shape of a dog's hind leg.

Uses and Advantages

    The dog gearbox is often used in race cars. In road racing, drivers use the first gear very rarely--only at the start of a race, as necessary. Therefore, it is advantageous for a driver to be able to switch easily between the second and third gears, whereas the more difficult maneuver to switch between first and second gears is not seen as a disadvantage.

Friday, March 10, 2017

How to Get a Free VIN Check Report

Getting a free VIN check or free VIN report is an excellent idea if you are planning on buying a used car. A free VIN check tells you whether or not the car has been stolen. It is totally free, so it won't cost you anything. You can get a free VIN report several different ways.

Instructions

    1

    First copy down the car VIN number from inside the door along the frame or above the dash near the windshield. If you are buying a used car, the VIN should be available online through the dealer. If not, call the dealer and request it.

    2

    Go to NCIB or a car report company's website and search for the free VIN check option. Some car report companies offer a free VIN check which is identical to the NCIB's report, as an added service. You will also find free VIN check forms on many car websites.

    3

    Enter your car VIN number into the field where it is requested on the website and click submit. In minutes you should receive a free VIN check for the used car. It will either be emailed to you or it can be downloaded from the site directly.

    4

    Read the free VIN check to determine if the used car has been stolen, or if the report provides it, if the used car has been totaled, salvaged or issued a junk title.

What Does a Salvage Title Mean?

What Does a Salvage Title Mean?

A used car with a salvage title was counted as a total loss and has been refurbished into working condition. If you buy a car with a salvage title, it is likely to have been in a large accident or received other extensive damage and had many original parts replaced.

Definition

    A salvage title is given to a car for which the repair cost is higher than the vehicle's value.

Causes

    The main reasons for which a salvage title is issued are major accidents, floods and damage done to a stolen vehicle.

Used Cars

    Sometimes salvage cars are brought back into operating condition and resold as used cars. They are often sold at a price that is far below what a similar car without a salvage title would sell for.

Considerations

    Some salvage cars are good purchases because their damage was primarily cosmetic, such as in a large hailstorm. However, keep in mind that if you ever plan to resell a car with a salvage title, it will likely be difficult to get a good price.

Insurance

    Beware of buying a used car with a salvage title because many insurance companies will not insure the vehicle. This is because it may not be a reliable or safe vehicle because of the damage it had.

Thursday, March 9, 2017

How to Trade a Boat for a New Car

How to Trade a Boat for a New Car

Some dealerships will trade for just about anything of value to sell a new car. Locating one of these dealers may prove challenging at first, but it can be done. Boat financing is very similar to car financing, so before you contact a dealer, you should have a title free of liens (money owed to a bank) or your boat's payoff amount if you still have a loan. Know how to find a dealer to accept your boat as a trade and what information you'll need.

Instructions

    1

    Read your title over to make sure there is no lien holder, or bank name, listed on it. If there is one on the title and the loan has been satisfied, have your lien release, or official statement of payoff, from the bank to include with your title.

    2

    Call your lender if you still have a loan on the boat. Ask for a 30-day payoff amount that includes any interest added between payments (also known as the per-diem) to allow you enough time to find a dealership to take a boat for trade.

    3

    Go to the manufacturer's main website for the new car you want and choose the "locate dealers" option. Enter your ZIP code and search radius. Decide how far you'd go to get your new car and trade your boat -- the more dealers you contact the better your chances are of finding a dealership to do the trade.

    4

    Print out your search results and start calling dealerships. Ask to speak directly to the sales manager and explain your intentions. Some dealers cannot take a boat on trade as they are not set up to sell or transport boats.

    5

    Ask the sales manager if you can send pictures of the boat for an appraisal if the dealer is far from you. Or, if you do not mind transporting your boat, set up an appointment with the sales manager. Tell the manager how much you owe (she will ask you) and what you are hoping to accomplish, such as a straight trade with no money involved or a transfer of the remaining loan balance to your new car loan.

    6

    Arrive at your appointment on time or go to the dealership once you have worked out a value through e-mail. (Not all dealers will do this). Bring your title and lien release or payoff information with you.

    7

    Test-drive the new vehicle if you'd like. Fill out a credit application if you intended to finance. Wait for your approval and complete your paperwork with the dealership.

Wednesday, March 8, 2017

Diesel Fuel Vs. Gasoline

Diesel and gasoline fuels are the two most popular kinds of fuels for internal combustion engines. While diesel engines tend to be more efficient and better at hauling loads, gasoline engines are quieter and cleaner, and tend to have more horsepower, which allows for better acceleration.

Differences

    Both gasoline and diesel fuel are derived from petroleum. The refinement process for the creation of diesel is much simpler than gasoline's. Diesel tends to be more oily and heavier than gasoline. It also evaporates more easily, which is important for the fuel injection process.

Engines

    Both kinds of engines depend on internal combustion for power. A diesel engine creates combustion by injecting compressed air into the engine. The compression causes the air to heat to about 1,000 degrees F, which ignites the diesel fuel. In a gasoline engine, gasoline is ignited by an electrical spark.

Diesel Engines More Efficient

    Diesel engines get better mileage than gasoline engines for two reasons: diesel fuel contains more energy than gasoline, and a diesel engine injects fuel and air into a combustion chamber at a much higher rate of compression, which makes the fuel burn more efficiently than fuel in a gasoline engine.

Towing and Horsepower

    The design of a diesel engine requires a much heavier construction. This heavy engine, combined with the high amount of compression it uses to ignite fuel, means that the engine runs at a much lower rate of revolutions per minute (RPM). Because it runs at a lower RPM rate, the engine needs much less force to rotate the machinery that moves a diesel vehicle. Because the engine can move machinery with much less force than a gasoline engine, it is much better at making a towed object start moving.
    But while a diesel engine is good at moving an object with a small amount of force, it is not so good at generating a lot of horsepower. Gasoline engines produce much more horsepower, which means they accelerate much faster.

Aesthetics

    Diesel engines tend to vibrate and make a lot more noise than gasoline engines, which can be extremely quiet if their exhaust and muffler systems are well-maintained. Diesel also tends to burn dirtier. It has high levels of sulfur, which creates an unpleasant smell. Diesel fuel also produces a lot of soot.

How Can I Get a Car Loan With Bad Credit?

Having bad credit may make large purchases seem impossible to make. Medical bills and other unforeseen events have left many people with blemishes on their credit report. If you are in need of a car, and have bad or less than perfect credit, there are a few things you can do to get into that new automobile.

Know Your Credit Report

    It may seem like a step you could skip, but you want to know what is on your credit report. Many credit reports have incorrect information on them. You want to be able to explain any imperfections to your potential lenders, or even have incorrect items removed before applying for the loan.

Call Around

    Many dealers have special lenders that are willing to loan money for a car to those who have had serious credit problems. Call around to local dealers, new and used, and ask them what kind of special financing they have available.

Buy Here Pay Here

    Many small used-car dealerships may offer a program called Buy Here Pay Here. They may require a large amount down, normally close to one-half the total cost of the car, but they do not pull credit reports if you can prove income. You will then make weekly, biweekly or monthly payments straight to the dealer.

Cosigner

    One of the best ways to obtain a vehicle with bad credit is to have someone who has good credit to go on the loan with you as a cosigner. A cosigner can significantly lower your interest rates, your payments and increase your chances of having the loan approved through a traditional lender.

Private Party

    If you know someone who has a car for sale, or see one in someone's driveway with a for-sale sign, you can always ask if you can make payments on the car. If you can come to an agreement to pay for the car over time, before taking delivery of the vehicle, a private seller may be more willing to work with someone than a large bank.

Preparation

    Have proof of income and proof of how you are able to pay for the car ready for any of the above situations. If possible, try to pay off some of the smaller debts that are bringing down your credit score. Doing this over the course of a few months can significantly increase you chances for approval.

Tuesday, March 7, 2017

2001 Silverado LS Vs. LT

The 2001 Chevrolet Silverado two- and four-wheel drive pickup trucks came in three trim levels: the base truck, the mid-range LS and the high-end LT. The base version was a no-frills work truck, while Chevy loaded the LS and LT versions with standard equipment and option packages. Cab styles were regular cab, extended cab and the four-door crew cab. The cargo boxes measured 6.5 or 8 feet. Wheelbases ranged from 133 to 167.1 inches.

LS vs. LT Comforts

    The 2001 Silverados mid-range LT trim featured a standard bench that could seat up to three passengers in the regular cab and a 60/40 split for the extended and crew cab models. The crew cab version could seat up to six people. The bench upholstery was premium cloth. The LT had significant upgrades. It featured front bucket seats with the crew cab accommodating five people. The leather seats had 10-way power adjustments, as well as a driver and front passenger heated cushions and seatback. The regular cab had a full bench seat.

LS vs. LT Conveniences and Interior

    Standard conveniences on the LS models included a compass, cruise control, panic alarm and anti-theft device. The LT version had the same conveniences, but also two-stage power door locks. Interior appointments on the LS featured tachometer, water temperature gauge, voltage gauge, low fuel warning, oil pressure gauge, vanity mirrors, seatback storage pockets, tilt steering wheel, radio clock, cup holders, underseat ducts and plastic/rubber gearshift knob. The LT version had the same interior standard equipment, plus an auto-dimming day-night rearview mirror and leather steering wheel. The Silverados near identical sibling, the GMC Sierra, had similar standard equipment and options.

LS vs. LT Power and Exterior

    The base engine on the 2001 Silverado 1500 LS models was a 195-horsepower 4.3-liter V-6. An optional 285-horsepower 5.3-liter V-8 was available. The 5.3-liter V-8 was standard on the LT trim models. The 2500HD and 3500HD LS and LT models received a 300-horsepower 6-liter V-8 engine. The LS model came with a standard five-speed manual transmission with overdrive. The LT came with a standard four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive. All four-wheel drive versions had an electronic four-wheel drive unit. The LT models body featured colored moldings, chrome inserts, chrome bar on the grille, tinted windows, heated door mirrors, soft tonneau cover, fender flares, dual daytime running lights and 16-inch chrome-style steel wheels. The LT versions exterior was similar to the LS. Its most significant difference was the LTs 16-inch alloy wheels and darker window tinting.

LS vs. LT Entertainment

    Standard entertainment equipment on the 2001 Silverado LS were an AM/FM audio system with seek-scan, single-disc CD player, six speakers, automatic equalizer and automatic speed-sensitive volume control. The LS model received the same standard equipment, plus a cassette player along with the CD player.

Types of Fuel-Efficient Cars

Fuel economy is an important factor if you're looking to save money on gas or to protect the earth. There are several types of fuel-efficient cars on the market. Some are gas/electric hybrids; some run efficiently on gasoline or diesel.

Toyota Prius

    According to FuelEconomy.gov the Toyota Prius gets more city miles per gallon than any other vehicle. A hybrid, this vehicle averages 46 miles per gallon of gas.

Most Efficient Two-Seater Cars

    The Smart for Two coupe and convertible are three-cylinder vehicles with automatic transmissions. These two-seaters average 36 mpg.

Most Efficient Mini-Compact and Subcompact Cars

    The Mini Cooper manual and automatic top the charts for efficiency in the mini-compact category, with the manual averaging 32 mpg and the automatic averaging 29 mpg. The most efficient subcompact car is the Toyota Yaris, with the manual averaging 32 mpg and the automatic averaging 31 mpg.

Most Efficient Compact and Midsize Cars

    The most efficient compact cars are the Honda Civic hybrid and the Volkswagen Jetta. The Civic averages 42 mpg; the Jetta averages 34 mpg. In the midsize car category, the most efficient are the Toyota Prius hybrid and the Nissan Versa. The Prius can go a whopping 46 mpg, while the Versa averages 28 mpg.

Most Efficient Large Cars

    The Hyundai Sonata and the Honda Accord are the most efficient large cars, both averaging 25 mpg.

Most Efficient Station Wagons

    The Volkswagen Jetta SportWagon is the most efficient small station wagon, with its manual transmission averaging 34 miles per gallon of diesel; the automatic gets 33. The Kia Rondo gets 22 mpg, and the Saab 9-5 SportCombi gets about 21 miles per gallon.

How to Buy or Sell a Car Online

The Web supplies a hassle-free way to reach lots of hungry shoppers for sellers. If you know exactly what new car you want, buying it online is as easy as pie.

Instructions

Buy a new car online

    1

    Follow Steps 1 through 3 in How to Buy a New Car.

    2

    Research various option packages and trim levels. Write down exactly what you're looking for and the price you're willing to pay.

    3

    Go to a secure, reliable Web site that sells cars online. Two examples are AutoByTel.com and CarsDirect.com. Select your desired make and model of car, or browse by price range.

    4

    Conduct the entire transaction online: Order the car via the site, perhaps pay the Web site's sales price without negotiating, and have it delivered to the nearest dealer in its network.

    5

    Initiate contact with a dealer to get the buying process started. After finding a local dealership online, work with the dealer in person to negotiate the deal and sign the paperwork.

    6

    Pick up your new car at a nearby dealership. Some dealerships will even deliver it to you.

Sell a used car online

    7

    Find a Web site that accepts online advertising. Newspaper, auto sales sites and local community sites all run ads for used cars.

    8

    Take some good digital pictures of your car.

    9

    Take advantage of online ads' ability to convey more facts about your car than print ads can, to reach more people and to feature multiple pictures of the car. To post your ad, sign up by entering your contact information and a description of your car, and pay a small fee (if required) with a credit card.

    10

    Post a Web page with a simple design and good-quality images of your car. Include any other details you weren't able to fit in your online ad (such as a scanned copy of the vehicle's history report). You might be able to link it to your ad.

    11

    Wait for the offers to roll in. (See How to Sell a Car.)

1989 Dodge Shadow ES Performance

The Dodge Shadow was an affordable, compact car introduced by Chrysler in 1987. It was available in two-door and four-door models. Despite the car's popularity and high sales volume, it was not profitable. Production of the Shadow ended in 1994 and Chrysler replaced it with the Neon.

Engine Specs

    All editions of the 1989 Shadow, including the ES, came with a 2.2-liter, inline, four-cylinder engine with a 2,212 cc displacement, a compression ratio of 9.5-to-1 and a bore and stroke of 3.44 inches by 3.62 inches.

Horsepower and Torque

    The 1989 Dodge Shadow's engine was a 93 horsepower motor capable of producing 122 foot-pounds of torque. It had a horsepower-per-liter rating of 42.04 and a power-to-weight ratio of 0.0357.

Fuel Rating

    The 1989 Dodge Shadow came with a 14-gallon fuel tank and earned an EPA-estimated mileage rating of 24 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.

Steering and Suspension

    The 1989 Dodge Shadow came with rack-and-pinion steering, with independent front suspension and live rear suspension. It had a turning diameter of 34 feet.

Ten Least Expensive SUVs for 2007

Ten Least Expensive SUVs for 2007

If you are looking to buy a 2007 Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV), or want to know where yours falls in the range of SUV prices, you can find listings that will sort by price, size, year, make or model, or compare features of two vehicles. SUVs typically fall into one of five classes: compact, mid-size, full-size, luxury and hybrid.

Overall

    According to Kelley Blue Book values, the overall ten least expensive SUVs for 2007 are in order: Kia Sorento ($10,450 - $13,050), Chevrolet TrailBlazer ($10,750 - $18,900), Suzuki Grand Vitara ($11,300 - $11,500), Jeep Liberty ($11,400 - $13,350), Kia Sportage ($11,550 - $13,000), Mitsubishi Endeavor ($11,900 - $14,650), GMC Envoy ($11,950 - $20,400), Hyundai Tucson ($11,950 - $15,500), Chevrolet Equinox ($12,100 - $13,100), and Isuzu Ascender ($12,100 - $12,350).

Classes Within Top 10

    Five of the overall least expensive vehicles on the list are compact SUVs: Kia Sorento, Suzuki Grand Vitara, Jeep Liberty, Kia Sportage, and Hyundai Tucson. Four are in the mid-size class: Chevrolet TrailBlazer, GMC Envoy, and Chevrolet Equinox. Only one is full-size, the Isuzu Ascender.

Other Classes

    The least expensive 2007 luxury class SUV is the Buick Rendezvous, ranging from $16,650 - $18,050 in Blue Book retail value. The least expensive 2007 hybrid SUV is the Saturn Vue Green Line ranging from $12,000 - $15,450 in Blue Book retail value. The most fuel-efficient 2007 SUV is the Ford Escape hybrid FWD.

How to Buy Junk Cars in Murrieta, California

How to Buy Junk Cars in Murrieta, California

Junk cars provide a unique problem for vehicle owners in that they are large, mostly immobile and not usually in high demand. Junk cars become junk cars because they are either old, do not run, have been wrecked or a combination of the above factors.



There are several types of businesses that profit from junk cars. These business are junkyards, scrap yards and auto restoring businesses. These businesses profit by turning the junk cars into resellable parts, scrap metal or even restored remodeled cars. You can buy junk cars in Murrietta, Calif., and use the cars to make a profit by starting any of these types of businesses.

Instructions

    1

    Determine how much you are willing to pay for junk cars. Call local junkyards and find out what their base prices for junk cars are so you can match them or offer slightly more money to entice customers to your business. As of 2010, most businesses that buy junk cars pay between $50 and $250 for a junk car with a clear title. The price can go up or down depending on the make and model of the car, its age and condition.

    2

    Advertise your intentions. You want to buy junk cars, and somewhere in Murrietta, Calif., someone wants to get a junk car out of his yard. Place ads in the phone book, on local online classified websites, area radio stations and newspapers. You may also want to start a website and get on social networking websites such as Facebook and Myspace. Make yourself visible in Murrietta as a buyer of junk cars.

    3

    Browse classifieds. Look through your local classifieds, such as those in area newspapers and craiglist.org, for broken down or wrecked cars to purchase. Contact the sellers and make offers on the junk cars they are selling.

    You can also contact insurance companies and automotive auctions to buy junk cars.

    4

    When someone contacts you wanting to sell his car, respond quickly with a price and potential pick-up time. The faster you are willing to arrive with your tow truck and cash in hand to buy the car, the more likely someone is to remember you or recommend you the next time they need to sell a junk car.

Monday, March 6, 2017

How to Buy a Porsche in Germany

How to Buy a Porsche in Germany

Since the introduction of the 356 in 1948, few automobile brands have been as celebrated and respected as Porsche. For decades, car enthusiasts have raved about performance icons like the Porsche 911 and dreamed of owning engineering masterpieces like the Porsche 959. While an incredible number of Porsches are exported from Germany to virtually every country in the world, it is still possible to purchase and accept delivery of a Porsche in Germany.

Instructions

Purchasing a Porsche in Germany

    1

    Order the Porsche of your choice at any North American Porsche dealer. You will be able to select the delivery date, model and options at this time.

    2

    Complete the European Delivery Program Car Order Form at your local dealer. You will be able to specify the length of time that you will drive your new Porsche in Germany at this time.

    3

    Arrange for vehicle payment and receive the Monroney Label to present at the Porsche factory as proof of purchase.

    4

    Arrive in Germany to complete the purchase of your new Porsche by accepting delivery.

Sunday, March 5, 2017

Depreciation of Luxury Vehicles Vs. Standard Models

Depreciation of Luxury Vehicles Vs. Standard Models

Buying a car isn't just about being able to travel, it can also be a status symbol. Luxury vehicles provide smooth performance and quality features. However, depreciation will quickly reduce your car's value, whether it's a luxury or standard model.

Facts

    Vehicle depreciation occurs because dealerships can't sell a vehicle as new once it's driven off the car lot, even if you return it in a few hours. Edmunds.com notes that a new car will lose 11 percent of its value to depreciation the moment it leaves the car lot.

Comparison

    The National Automotive Dealers Administration reports that 2007 luxury vehicle models experience the highest annual depreciation for three-year old vehicles. NADA notes that four of the top 10 vehicles were in the luxury category, while the other six were standard vehicles. Jaguar and Mercedes-Benz had the highest depreciation at 25 and 22 percent, respectively.

Considerations

    Depreciation is an unstoppable force for new cars. You can review a vehicle's resale value at three and five years, for an idea of how much to expect in depreciation.

Saturday, March 4, 2017

Kawasaki Vulcan 1600 Specs

Kawasaki introduced the Vulcan 1600 Classic to its line of street-cruiser motorcycles in 2003, replacing the Vulcan 1500 with the newer and more powerful model. Kawasaki added the Vulcan 1600 Nomad to the line in 2005. The Vulcan 1600 Classic and the Vulcan 1600 Nomad used the same engine and other major components, but there were slight differences in the design and style of the two motorcycles. Kawasaki rolled out a Vulcan 1700 series in 2009, and has not produced any new models of the Vulcan 1600 Classic or Nomad since 2008.

Physical Dimensions

    The 2008 Kawasaki Vulcan 1600 Classic had a high-tensile steel, double-cradle frame with a rake of 32 degrees and a trail of 6.6 inches. It was 98.6 inches long, 40.9 inches wide and 44.5 inches tall. It had a seat height of 27.1 inches, a wheelbase of 66.1 inches and a ground clearance of 5.1 inches. It had a dry weight of 675 lbs. and came with a 5.3-gallon fuel tank.

    Many of the physical dimensions of the 2008 Vulcan 1600 Nomad matched those of the Classic. However, it was slightly larger, with a rake of 7.2 inches, a length of 99 inches, a height of 59.3 inches, a seat height of 28.3 inches, a wheelbase of 66.5 inches and a dry weight of 772 lbs.

Engine and Transmission

    Both the 2008 Vulcan 1600 Classic and the 2008 Vulcan 1600 Nomad came with a 1,552 cc, 95 ci, four-stroke, liquid-cooled, V-twin engine with a single-overhead-camshaft configuration and four valves per cylinder. The engine had a bore and stroke of 4.02 inches by 3.74 inches and a compression ratio of 9-to-1. The engine was fuel injected and used a TCBI ignition with digital advance. The engine was paired with a five-speed, shaft-driven transmission.

Brakes and Suspension

    The 2008 Vulcan 1600 Classic and Vulcan 1600 Nomad came with dual 300 mm hydraulic disc brakes on the front and a single 300 mm disc brake on the rear. Both motorcycles came with hydraulic fork suspension with 5.9 inches of wheel travel on the front end. The Classic came with dual air-assisted shocks with 3.7 inches of wheel travel on the rear end, and the Nomad came with dual air-assisted shocks with four-way rebound damping and 3.9 inches of wheel travel on the rear end.

What Is Dealer Incentive?

Dealer incentives are money provided to a dealership to help close car sales. Dealer incentives can help buyers save thousands of dollars when shopping for a vehicle. However, incentives should be deducted only after negotiating a price close to invoice.

Customer Rebates

    Customer rebates are incentives passed from the manufacturer to the customer through the dealership. In place of rebates, low- or no-interest financing offers sometimes are a feature.

Dealer Cash

    Dealer cash is money given to the dealership upon selling a vehicle. Dealer cash may be passed on to the customer to lower the selling price, or it may be held by the dealership to increase profit.

Holdback

    Holdback is an amount paid by the manufacturer to a dealership to offset normal expenses of doing business, such as salaries and building maintenance.

Performance Bonuses

    Manufacturers occasionally offer performance bonuses if dealerships sell enough vehicles in a given month or quarter. Buying at the end of a month can make it easier to save on a vehicle if it helps the dealership become eligible for a large bonus.

Expert Insight

    Dealer incentives vary wildly. Import manufacturers de-emphasize customer rebates, choosing instead to pass incentives directly to the dealership. The only universally offered incentive is holdback, which can equal an amount between 3 and 5 percent of the dealership's cost on a vehicle.

Friday, March 3, 2017

Colorado Laws About Transferring Car Titles

Colorado Laws About Transferring Car Titles

In Colorado, the State Department of Revenue makes the rules about how to title your vehicle, but titles are recorded in each of the state's 64 counties. That means you follow Colorado state laws and fill out Colorado state forms but take them to the county clerk's office to get your Colorado state plates.

If you're buying from a dealership, the dealer will handle the paperwork for you. You'll get a temporary license plate, and the county motor vehicle office will let you know by mail when your documents are ready. For private sales, if you're moving to Colorado, or changing the title because of a life change, Colorado law requires you to bring various documents to your county motor vehicle authority and pay title and registration fees, ownership tax and sales tax.

Record Your Title With the County

    Colorado is different from many other states in that driver licensing and motor vehicle ownership laws are overseen by the state Department of Revenue, but the county registers and titles vehicles. You must go in person to the correct county office, and that's not always easy to figure out---some Denver suburbs include addresses in three counties. Call the clerk and recorder's office, or visit the U.S. Postal Service's website, enter your street address and city, and click "submit." On the results page, click "Mailing Industry Information" to see your county name.

    This law also requires that both you and the vehicle be in the state of Colorado at the time of registration. When you move, update your motor vehicle registration so it comes to the right address and ownership taxes (the Colorado version of personal property tax) are collected on behalf of the city and county where you live.

Laws That Protect Buyers and Sellers

    To transfer title in Colorado, you must prove who you are, show that the vehicle is legally yours to sell, and provide details of the sale such as cost (to figure sales tax). You'll also need:

    1) Secure and verifiable identification for yourself (driver's license or permit, passport, immigration documents, military ID)

    2) The current title or documents from the dealer, properly endorsed by the previous owner. On a Colorado title, the previous owner should fill out the form on the back, sign and date. If there's more than one owner, all must sign.

    3) Proof the vehicle passed a Colorado vehicle emissions test, if you live in metro Denver, Weld, Larimer or El Paso counties. No other inspection is required by law.

    4) Odometer disclosure

    5) A bill of sale, or a signed and dated gift letter if somebody gave you the car. What goes on a bill of sale: buyer's name(s), purchase price, vehicle identification number, year and make of the vehicle, date of sale and the seller's signature.

Proof of Insurance, VIN Number and Lien Details

    Colorado law requires proof of insurance before registering a vehicle. Bring your insurance card, a copy of your policy or a letter from your insurance company confirming coverage.

    If you borrowed money to buy the vehicle, a lien will be recorded with the title until your loan is paid off. Your lender should give you a mortgage document (security agreement). It must be an original, carbon copy or certified copy and must contain vehicle description (year, make, vehicle identification number), lienholder's name and address, loan amount and owner's signature.

    If the vehicle was titled in another state, you'll need a Verification of Vehicle Identification Number form (download it from the Department of Revenue website), completed by a Colorado law enforcement officer, motor vehicle dealer or emissions testing station.

Special Situations

    In case of death or divorce, if there's no current title document, or in special situations such as salvage or rebuild titles or unusual vehicles like road machinery or manufactured homes, Colorado law may require you to provide extra paperwork such as a death certificate or power of attorney, or go through additional steps. Contact the Colorado Department of Revenue or your county clerk for advice.

Wednesday, March 1, 2017

Toyota Prado Specifications

Toyota Prado Specifications

The Toyota Prado is a rebadged Land Cruiser model sold throughout Asia, South Asia, the Middle East, South Africa, Australia and Latin America. Sold by the Toyota Motor Corporation, the Prado is not part the Land Cruiser family of sport utility vehicles in North America, but comes as a rebadged Lexus GX 470. Toyota offers the Prado as five- and three-door gasoline- and diesel-powered models.

Power

    The 2011 five- and three-door Prados are equipped with a gasoline or diesel engine. A 273-horsepower 4-liter V-6 engine generating 281 foot-pounds of torque powers the gasoline-powered Prado. The engine features alloy cross-flow heads and alloy block, multi-point fuel injection and runs on 95-octane gasoline. The turbo diesel inline four-cylinder version displaces 3 liters and generates 172 horsepower and 302 foot-pounds of torque. A diesel common rail fuel injection system delivers the fuel to the engine. The gasoline-powered V6 has a towing capacity of 5,511 lbs. The diesel-powered four-cylinder with its extra torque capability can pull 6,613 lbs.

Dimensions and Models

    The 2011 five-door Prado trim options are the base GX, the mid-level GXL and VX and luxury Kakadu. The three-door trim choices are the base SX, mid-range ZR and top-level Kakadu. Toyota placed the 4,894-lb. five-door Prado on a 109.8-inch wheelbase. It measures 194 inches long, 74.2 inches and 74.2 inches tall. Its wading depth in water is 27.5 inches. The 4,442-lb. three-door Prado sits on a short 96.6-inch wheelbase and is 176.5 inches long. It measures 74.2 inches wide and 73.8 inches tall. Its wading depth is the same as the five-door model. Both models ride on 17-inch alloy wheels and 265/65R17-112S tires. The fuel tank for both models holds 22.9 gallons.

Brakes and Suspension

    Both Prado models feature all-wheel ventilated disc brakes with a four-wheel anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic brake distribution, brake assist, traction control and vehicle stability control. The two models' front suspension is an independent wishbone system with gas dampers, coil springs and ball-joint mounted anti-sway bar. The rear suspension features a rigid live axle system with five-link upper/lower trailing arms, gas dampers, coil springs and ball-jointed mounted anti-sway bar.

Features

    Standard equipment on the five- and three-door 2011 Prados feature cruise control, trip computer, power door mirrors, rear window wiper, tachometer, low-fuel warning lamp, front and rear air conditioning, climate control, power windows and door locks, floor console, driver and front passenger airbags, side curtain airbags for three rows of seating and three-point seat belts. The audio system is six-speaker AM/FM/CD player with MP3 capability. A five-speed automatic transmission is standard. The seats are upgraded cloth and velour on both models. The security system features an engine immobilizer, audible alarm, a cargo area, hood and door monitoring alarm system and central door locking.

Benefits of CarMax

Benefits of CarMax

CarMax is the largest used car retailer in the nation. The company operates 105 superstores within 51 markets as of the time of publication. When customers go to CarMax to purchase a used car, they can expect to receive the price of a car upfront, work with only one salesperson and receive a limited warranty on a car they buy. Additionally, CarMax provide customers with numerous benefits to them drive off the lot with a car.

Free Car History Report

    CarMax lets you review a complete history of the car you select. You can view a complete history with a click on a button by visiting the website or a saleperson can supply the report to you. The car history report may include maintenance information, accidents and odometer readings.

Five-Day Money-Back

    The automobiles at CarMax come with five-day money-back guarantee. The company realizes that some vehicles may not fit every person. You can take a car back to the same CarMax you nay the purchase and receive a complete refund.

Inspections

    Cars from CarMax receive inspections on more than 125 points on the car. A certified mechanic checks the vehicle's cooling, lighting, steering and fuel systems. Additionally, the drivetrain, engine, car accessories and other parts of a vehicle such as spare tires, door locks, remote controls and steering wheels.

Cars Priced Below $12,000

    CarMax superstores typically offer thousands of vehicle that are priced below $12,000. The car available on the lot can suit a variety of customers' budgets. In addition, you can find numerous vehicles on the website that the company can transfer to the closest store to you.

No-Haggling Policy

    A salesperson will not haggle with you on a price. The salesperson will tell you the cost of the vehicle without you having to negotiate for a better price of the vehicle.

Limited Warranty

    Vehicles come with a limited 30- to 60-day warranty, depending on the state you purchase the automobile. CarMax will fix or replace automobile parts under the limited warranty agreement. Your personal salesperson can give you the details of the limited warranty.

OEM Wheel Bolt Specifications

OEM Wheel Bolt Specifications

Every automobile comes standard with wheels that have an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) bolt pattern. A bolt pattern is the diameter of an invisible circle formed by the midpoints of the wheel lugs. Wheel bolt patterns can include four-, five-, six-, seven- and eight-lug holes.

Acura OEM Wheel Bolt Pattern

    Acura manufactures a variety of automobiles, including MDX, Integra and Vigor. The MDX made in model years 2001 through 2011 has 17-by-7.5-inch wheels with a five-lug pattern on a circle with a diameter of 4.5 inches. The 1991 to 2001 Acura Integra came equipped with a 14-by-6-inch tires and a bolt pattern of four lugs on a circle with a 3.93-inch diameter. The 1991 to 1993 Acura Vigor came equipped with a 15-by-6-inch wheel and a four-lug bolt pattern on a circle with a 4.5-inch diameter.

Honda OEM Wheel Bolt Pattern

    Honda has made numerous vehicles over the years, including Accord, Insight and Odyssey. The 1998 to 2011 Honda Accord features a bolt pattern of four lugs on a circle with a diameter of 4.5 inches and a 15-by-6-inch tire. The 1989 to 2011 Civic features four lugs on a circle with a 3.93-inch diameter. The 1995 to 2011 Odyssey has a 15-by-6-inch tires and a bolt pattern of five lugs on a sphere with a diameter of 4.5 inches.

Saturn OEM Wheel Bolt Pattern

    Before General Motors discontinued the Saturn brand, you could find a new L-Series, S-Series or Vue sitting in the car lots. The Saturn Vue for model years 2002 to 2009 came equipped with 15-by-6-inch tires with a wheel bolt pattern of five lugs on a circle with a 4.53-inch diameter. The 1999 to 2005 Saturn L-Series sedan featured a bolt pattern of five lugs on a circle with a 3.93-inch diameter and sported 15-by-6-inch tires.