bunch of blogs: Motor

For most people a sports vehicle is the car of their dreams. The feel of a revving engine and their hair being swept back by the wind as their convertible speeds down on the highway, they feel is a prize worth paying for.
But what if once they acquire the sports car of their dreams, and the thrill of victory dies when they realize that something has gone terribly wrong? They suddenly realize they have blown most of their hard earned cash on the purchase of their new vehicle, not leaving enough for the purchase of car insurance. This is when the hunt for a cheap sports car insurance policy begins!
Some things to remember when looking for cheap sports car insurance:
Shop around the internet for insurance rates
Some of the cheaper sports car insurance rates can be found on the internet. Several insurance companies offer deals and discounts. There are also car insurance companies that offer free insurance estimates online.
Factors in determining cost
Sports cars that are driven in places that are considered to have high crime rates cost more to insure. Sports cars are known to be more often stolen than a non-sports vehicle. Their cost for repairs is relatively higher. This is why the insurance premium for sports vehicles are higher than average.
But if a sports car is equipped with safety features such as car alarm, detachable stereo, and steering wheel lock - the cost to have it insured will be reduced.
Compare prices
Shop around for the cheapest sports car insurance policy. This way you will be able to compare the different deals and offers car insurance companies are offering.
Customers would also know if they are being treated fairly, since they have a basis of comparison from different sources.
It is also a factor how many individuals are to be covered by a particular insurance company. This is why it is imperative to look into different sources for the best deal. Different insurance companies offer different terms and agreements.
There are numerous car insurance companies out that are less expensive sports car insurance.
The key is to find those that are offering discounts and special deals for the specific model of car and one that cover the buyer’s needs and specifications. This way the owning a sports car will be an exhilarating experience.

BMW or Bayerische Motoren Werke has long been conceived all over the world as “The Ultimate Driving Machine.” The company has proven this statement true in the past years.
The current models of BMW sports car will attest to that statement.
Here are some of the current models of BMW, with their corresponding characteristics.
-BMW M3 2006
Engine specifications:
BMW M3 has an in-line, 3.2 liter capacity engine with a compression ratio of 11.5. It has four valves per cylinder. It promises to deliver 248 KW power and 333 HP at 7900 rpm (SAE).
Brake Features:
The car has electronic brake distribution, brake assist system, four disk brakes with ventilated disks, cornering brake control, and four-wheel ABS.
Handling Features:
BMW M3 is equipped with stability control, immobilizer and limited slip differentia at the rear. The ABS and engine management control the electronic traction.
Aerodynamics Exterior features:
The car has 0.35 drag coefficient, body side moldings, and 3771 lbs. curb weight.
-BMW M5 2006
Engine specifications:
The BMW M5 2006 car has a V10, and 3.2 liter capacity engine with a compression ratio of 12. It has four valves per cylinder. It promises to deliver 373 KW power and 500 HP at 7750 rpm (SAE).
Brake Features:
The car has brake assist system, four disk brakes with ventilated disks, electronic brake distribution, cornering brake control, and four-wheel ABS.
Handling Features:
The BMW M5 is equipped with stability control, immobilizer and limited slip differentia at the rear. The ABS and engine management control the electronic traction. It is also equipped with a responsive suspension.
Aerodynamics Exterior features:
The car has 0.31 drag coefficient and 4012 lbs. curb weight.
-BMW 6-Series
Engine specifications:
The BMW M5 2006 has a V8, 4.8 liter capacity engine with a compression ratio of 10.5. It has four valves per cylinder. It promises to deliver 268 KW power and 360 HP at 6300 rpm (SAE).
Brake Features
The car has electronic brake distribution, brake assist system, four disk brakes with ventilated disks, cornering brake control, and four-wheel ABS.
Handling Features:
BMW M3 car is equipped with stability control, immobilizer and limited slip differentia at the rear. The ABS and engine management control the electronic traction. It is also equipped with an adjustable responsive suspension.
Aerodynamics Exterior features:
The car has 0.3 drag coefficient, and 3814 lbs. curb weight.
With all the features these cars have, BMW truly is the “Ultimate Driving Machine.”

The year 2006 offers several new sports car designs - from exterior body parts to more defined interiors. One of the most sought after sports car to date is the efficient 2006 Saturn Ion - its enviable rust and dent proof body and added horsepower. With its extra size, it has the combination of the Quad Coupe and 2003 Sedan, restyled with smart modernism and small back entrance doors. The four-speed transmission was replaced by a five-speed automatic transmission. The price could vary from $12,000 to less than $20,000 per car.
Next in line is the Mazda MX-5 Miata, which was introduced at $28,000 as the manufacturer’s suggested retail price. It is reasonably priced, with a system built for key free entry, air conditioning, two seats, and a steering wheel wrapped in leather. It has a six speed manual transmission, leather seats and optional sport suspension with 2.0-liter dual overhead cam and four-cylinder engine. The space provided in the trunk is 5.3 cubic feet. However, the lowered body and back tires are not devised for use during muddy or snowy seasons.
Here comes another American accomplishment legend - the Ford Mustang with its multi-valve overhead cam, which generates 300 horsepower. This retro inspired modern car is more rapid and more responsive than it has ever been. Available for about $21,000, it is well furnished in both convertible and coupe designs. Fanatics can choose between automatic and manual transmission engines. Tires are trendier at 18 inches… Since it has been introduced in 1964, the name Ford Mustang has competed with Firebird, Camaro, Barracuda, etc for more than 40 years, and is standing by its name.
For those who are looking for striking and lavish sky-scraping performance sports car, the Cadillac XLR is a better choice. The approach is over-sensitive, sophisticated, dominant and unique with attractive interiors and a hardtop convertible that can go in and out in just thirty seconds. It offers a resolute hold and superior handling in a fiery 320 horsepower engine. It is even faster than Jaguar XK8, Mercedes SL500, and Lexus SC430 is a silent machine whether the convertible’s up or down.
These are just a few of the most infamous sports car this year. Passionate drivers and collectors are just starting to do their own research and before long, these cars will either be sought for collectibles or for private use… It is true that these sports cars are toys for the “big boys”.

Buying a car today can be pretty expensive. The average car price is almost $23,000. That is definitely a lot of money, even for some of the typical and ordinary cars available in the market. This shows that the other types of cars like the sports cars are high priced.
With high quality of sports cars, it is important that owners learn how to maintain their car’s engine in order to protect their asset.
Sports cars are especially made for “sporting performance”. This means that its actual engine performance is on a higher level for speed, acceleration, maneuverability, and braking are compared to the other types of cars.
With these remarkable features, some sports car drivers tend to use its power even if they are not on a race. Therefore, maintaining the sports car engine is extremely important. Yet a sports car engine does not have to be powerful and large.
Here is a list of useful tips for maintaining sports car engines:
1. For average use, it is still necessary to check the sports car engine every 3000 miles. One of the primary engine maintenance tips is to change the engine oil along with the filter. This will ensure proper lubrication and performance of the sports car engine.
2. Check the other fluids in the engine such as the brake fluid, “automatic transmission fluid level (if applicable),” coolant, etc. These fluids are important in keeping the sports car engine’s performance healthy.
3. Always check the engine compartment for any signs of leaks. Leaks usually indicate a broken gasket.
4. Always look for some wear, breaks or cracks of the engine belts. Taking it for granted can create serious engine problems.
5. Be wary of spark plugs that are beyond the recommended 30,000-mile range. Old spark plugs that ore not working properly can deprive you of fuel efficiency.
It is important that all engine maintenance checks performed on a sports car should be recorded in a logbook. This will be very useful especially if the person who has done the maintenance check has forgotten the last date of oil change or other maintenance that was performed.
There is no other way to keep a sports car in top condition than to have a regular maintenance check-up on its engine. You must remember that the engine is the most important part of a car, especially the sports car; therefore, it should be properly maintained.

Owners of sports cars may be the ‘kings of the streets’. Sports cars offer great features and benefits that many car buyers look for. However, sports cars may sometimes be a problem when obtaining the car insurance.
It is a known fact that the insurance for sports cars has much higher premiums than any other car. It can be a problem when applying for car insurance since the fees and premiums are ‘hard on the pocketbook’. Here are some tips that can help in getting the best insurance rates for sports cars:
1. The car owner should have a very good credit rating and have maintained that rating for a number of years. Insurance companies offer better rates for those people who have very good credit scores. Before applying for car insurance policies, the owner should make sure that he has no credit card debt…
2. Car owners can enjoy better insurance rates if they pack their sports cars with safety features and gadgets. The owner can purchase safety airbags, install antilock brakes, and stability/traction controls. These are recommended for the protection they provide, and safety features on sports cars will allow car owners to obtain discounts on their car insurance policies.
3. Sports car owners should also maintain very good driving records. Insurance companies offer lower rates to safe drivers.
4. Premium quotes are reviewed based on the information that is provided to insurance companies. Sports car owners should always make sure that they provide correct and accurate information when getting insurance quotes for their cars. This will help car owners enjoy the insurance rate that is best for them.
5. It is very important to so research before buying car insurance. Insurance companies offer different insurance rates. Some offer discounts during special events or when promoting their company. Car owners should always keep informed about discounts and rates. They can also make use of the internet to get insurance quotes and compare rates before making the final selection.
6. Once a final choice has been made, car owners should not stop there. They should update their policies and their information on a regular basis. They need to continue to check their insurance policies to ensure that they are still enjoying the same rates and terms that were initially offered.
Sports cars are for enjoyment and prestige, so they should not be a burden to their owners. Even if sports cars have higher premiums, compared to other cars, the owners will still be able to enjoy the best insurance rates available to them.

Imported luxury sports cars are longed for by many car buyers and collectors. The US is one of the many countries who love to import luxury vehicles like sports cars. There are new ones but there are also used luxury cars that are sold in the car market.
Brand new imported luxury cars are very expensive so many buyers are turning to used luxury sports cars as an alternative. Although pre-owned, many buyers still wish to buy them to be part of their collections. Others purchase these used imported luxury cars to lift their public images and add class and prestige when driving.
Here are some tips that need to be considered when buying used imported luxury sports cars:
1. The real cost of the imported luxury sports car should be determined. It is not advisable to buy the used car without having it appraised. Many car sellers price the imported cars very high because most buyers are not familiar with their true cost. It is important to determine the value before buying a car whether it is new or pre-owned.
2. Buyers of these cars should research the car before purchasing. It is important to remember that they are imported cars and you should be aware of, and informed about the car’s capacity, gas mileage, speed, and engine performance.
Know the depreciation rate and how the cars are sold in the market. By so doing, the research will help the buyer obtain some tips to use when buying imported luxury sports cars. The way to research is to use the internet or seek the advice of other car owners/buyers who are familiar with these types of cars.
3. When shopping for a car, it is recommended that you enlist the assistance of an experienced car mechanic that is not employed by the dealer. The mechanic should be an expert in checking the engine and other parts of the used car. This is to ensure that the car is in good shape and that it will not make the dream of the buyer become a nightmare.
Take time to think about the purchase before making the final decision. The same applies when buying an imported luxury sports car. All things must be considered before buying so that you will not regret buying the used car.

Cars, in general, possess both form and function. The designers did not compromise aesthetics with performance.
However, there is something about sports cars that make them stand out when it comes to beauty. And we are not talking about external features only.
There is more to physical features like, sleekness of the car, that determine its beauty.
Here are some of the characteristics that endear sports cars to car enthusiasts.
- Sports cars have attitude at first glance.
Sports cars speak the attitude that they possess. They are not like mere cars whose presence can be ignored. They captivate the eyes of those who see them. They imply that thrill and enjoyment van be expected when their hands are those that control the wheel.
Sports cars stand above other cars, that are seen very day, primarily because the designs imply what they are capable of doing. A sleek look really matches a car with sleek activities.
- Sports cars possess greater power.
Their power comes from their more powerful engines and has other specifications than other the cars have. A sports car can do more than ordinary tasks because of the features that only they possess.
- Sports cars are made for driving pleasure.
Ordinary cars make driving monotonous and boring, while on the other hand, sports cars primarily aim to give the drivers a “high” feeling of speed and control. Only sports cars can provide that need for drivers who seek adventure.
Sports cars bring the thrill back to driving. They express what other cars can not. Sports cars are not designed just for practicality, but for pleasure too.
- Sports cars are made for drivers who enjoy their ‘wild side’.
Drivers do have the need to express this ‘wild side’. Sports cars make any road a venue to satisfy those needs. Only sports cars can match the “wildness” that drivers innately have. For that reason, sports cars perfectly compliment the child in every driver.
- Sports cars have evolved and improved through the years.
Drivers appreciate the improvements that have been made to sports cars. You could say that sports car technology has infinite possibilities. The stereotypes of sports cars have long been debunked. Those limits have been crossed. The only thing that car enthusiasts can do is to watch as these improvements unfold before their very eyes.
- Sports cars make their owners feel good about themselves.
Sports cars are lifeless. They cannot feel proud because they are beautiful, but their owners take pride in having them.
With all these things said about the intrinsic and extrinsic beauty that sports cars possess, only a person who does not appreciate their beauty and/or speed will not opt to get one.

If you want to sell your car, you need to know a few things before doing so. Here are tips on how you can sell your car the best way.
• There are different ways you can sell your car. You can go through a dealership or you can sell it yourself. It is more convenient when you sell your car to a dealer, but your car may be priced below what you anticipate. On the other hand, you can get a better price if you sell it yourself, but it will take much of your time and effort.
• Whether you decide to enter to a dealership or sell your car by yourself, you need to know the market. Research how your type of car sells today and look for what other buyers at looking to buy. This way you can price of your car accordingly. You should highlight the features that your car has in order to match the desired market.
• Choose how you will advertise your car. You can simply put a “FOR SALE” sign on it so that every where you go you advertise it, or you can be more serious about marketing and place an advertisement online or inn the classified ads of your local newspaper.
If you decide to place an ad in the classifieds or on the net, provide a photo of your car to make it more appealing to buyers -so get out your camera and take pictures of your car!
• Use unforgettable statements to give your car “charm”. Match these comments with your markets needs; highlight the excellent features so that they can be easily noticed.
• Assess your vehicle and price it reasonably. As mentioned make a research on how cars sell are selling. If you price your car too high, chances are you will lose the sale. However, by putting a very low price on it will you will incur a loss.
• Set up your car for the show. Your car is the star of the show, so it should be in tip top shape. Take the necessary measures to entice buyer have the engine tuned-up so it runs well.
• Keep a record of all the services and repairs of your vehicle. Some buyers also look at these records to determine how well the car was maintained. These records also tell if the car is in good condition.

Are you planning to improve the aesthetic appearance of your car? Want to get that sporty and sleek look? Then here are some pointers that will help you dress up your car.
What products to choose from
When deciding what kind of setup you will do to your car, you should first keep in mind that there are a multitude of products being sold out there which claim superior performance and economical. But the reality is there are some good ones and and many of bad ones. Be picky when looking for car accessories and remember it is not a bad idea to look at the established brands before considering untested brands.
The wheels
One of the initial things that a car enthusiast does when dressing up a car is to replace the existing wheels with custom made ones. But this is not just for looks since performance wheels and tires also enhance a car’s handling and performance. Choosing between tall wheels and short ones will be the next step. Bigger wheels get noticed more and increase the look of a car dramatically. Smaller wheels on the other hand have that vintage or retro look.
Stickers Galore
Applying sticker designs on the car hood or the other parts of the car body is one of the cheapest ways to alter and customize your car. Sticker designs range from popular performance parts logos of manufacturers as well as those designed for rally and indy races. If you are capable of making your own stickers, it is important to get permission for copying a design as it may be copyrighted. If you are planning to put stickers on the hood, choose the kind that will not be damaged by the heat of the engine. Metallic foil stickers are ideal for use on car hoods.
Lowering kits
Lowering your car means making your car more stable in turns aside from giving it an aggressive and sporty look. Cars are not the only ones that have lowering kits, so if you have a pickup truck, chances are, there is a lowering kit made for your vehicle. Although having a lower ride means improved handling, the trade off is poor ride quality since the car springs are stiffer and shorter.
These are some of the things that you can do to improve the look and stance of your car. Your car is a represents you so naturally you want it to look appealing. Of course, having a good looking car also means spending thousands of dollars. If this is your passion, then paying extra will not be a problem with you.

Sports car racing strategy is typical of other car racing techniques. Below are seven fundamental steps to keep in mind when joining a car race:
Engine Start – prepare the engine by lifting the start switch latch that is usually located at the driver’s side. The engine should be in operation once the announcer has started the countdown. Lightly step on the accelerator and feel the engine running. Another way of making sure that the engine is ready is by looking at the tachometer - it changes and moves from zero once the switch has been started.
Throttle – racing a sports car means 750 to 850 horsepower. Imagine the feeling behind that little wheel; it’s the breathtaking feel of total power. The secret for continuous power is for the car to have enough gas to rev up the whole machine. Fishtailing could be one of the problems when racing and to keep this from happening use a little effort to control the accelerator.
Engine Transmission – an automatic transmission sports car allows the system to automatically set the clutch. This is for amateur sports car racers so that they do not have to change gears manually. The sports car will be smart enough to operate the transmission for the driver. The traditional H symbol is used for manual transmission sports car.
Walls – during the race, it is unavoidable to bump the sidewalls. This is not a cause for alarm. The sports car driver just has to shift the gear into reverse to move away from the wall. Sooner or later the car should be back on track.
Comfy on the Track – always stay beneath the white line of the lane while at 100 miles per hour. This is so the driver can keep the other cars from turning into the back end of the sports car. Once the speed of other cars is met, tag along back on the track.
Presence of Mind – stay focused and keep both hands on the steering wheel. Steer the wheel at a slow but sure pace, do not exaggerate the turn.
Halt during Emergency – part of keeping focused is always remembering that there is an emergency button in every sports car when there is a need to stop. It is situated in the center of the dash and is used when the car needs a motion stop. This button immediately stops the car stimulator.
Bear in mind that even in this situation, the sports car can still be driven until the end of the race. Be alert and try mastering the race track if time permits, but always think of safety.
Cleofi-Krista P. Capili
MAS Consultant Support Specialist
AOL Member Services, PI