Those considering leasing a car can benefit from this plethora of road bound possibilities without any of the high upfront costs associated with them. But with so many brand new cars just waiting to be leased, it can often feel like you�re spoilt for choice.

Whilst the sleek luxury of a saloon, or the speedy punch of a coup� may be what many people set their leasing sights on, why not spare a thought for the humble compact car? These vehicles, which are built with the city scape in mind, offer many of the features previously associated with higher end cars with some added extra benefits as well.

We�ve chosen four reasons why, before setting your heart on an elephantine SUV, you may wish to consider a smaller portion of motoring bliss.

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More high end brands are releasing compacts

Previously, the compact car market was a world reserved for practical, no-frill Fords and environmentally friendly Toyotas. However, this has all changed.

Perhaps this can best be seen with the release of the BMW 1 Series, their hatchback solution in 2007. With the introduction of this luxury solution to the compact market, the demand for higher quality interior and classier cuts has forced the hand of many manufacturers.

It�s not uncommon to see the same technology and build quality now in cars with their hearts in the city. The Audi A3 hatchback provides a worthy compact adversary with the same German quality, as does the Volkswagen Golf. Even looking towards compact stalwart the Ford Focus, you�ll find it teched up to the 9�s with top of the range gadgetry such as their Ford SYNC infotainment.

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Keep those road costs low

The big trend for both road users and car makers is keeping road costs down. Whilst at the time of writing gas prices are at a surprising low, history would suggest that these costs are set to rise up even further. Not only this, but there has been a far greater effort by both individuals and the government to encourage more environmentally friendly cars.

With this in mind, a compact car is a particularly appealing option. For those who are concerned with road license fee, commonly referred to as road tax, many smaller cars are exempt from these costs or benefit from a vast reduction to their gas guzzling larger siblings. Not only this, but new developments such as Volkswagen’s Bluemotion mean that hatchbacks and estates are becoming much more energy efficient.

Nowadays, a poor mileage for a compact is in the high 30s, whereas most drivers can expect anywhere up to 70 miles per gallon from a diesel powered machine. This makes compact cars some of the most efficient vehicles around. If you consider that many of the most popular compact cars are available in hybrid or even electric powered forms, those roads costs will continue to tumble.

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They�re not just built for city driving

With the burgeoning supermini class also pushing on further towards the posh end of automotive choices, compact cars are becoming less about the city and more for driving in general. Vehicles such as the Fiat 500 have seen the supermini market redefine itself as an affordable but fashionable choice, where previously they were seen as merely a low cost option for those taking short drives.

The increased demand for performance in the compact market began with the birth of the hot hatchback class in the early 00s. Here was a new range of compact vehicles that provided high performance in a small, more practical package.

Whilst hot hatches are still on the market in the form of the Ford Focus ST and Honda Civic Type R, much of the attitude shift to compacts as performance vehicles has been seen across the board. Nearly all compact cars you find are now released with a variety of performance based engines, as well as low fuel costs and energy efficiency.

In fact, perhaps the greatest strength of a compact car nowadays is that they offer such a broad selection of engine and style choices, that there is a car suited to every driver�s needs.

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Better Maneuverability

A car class advantage that has been as reliable as the British rain is the incredible maneuverability and handling that a compact offers. With the standard increase in power, manufacturers haven�t scrimped on the class defining features, and this is what makes compacts a smart choice for both in and out of the city.

Whilst the current rise in SUVs and crossover utility vehicles may make the larger car a fashionable choice for those seeking a little more luxury and space, it comes to a halt in the parking department. The large off road style car shapes may have an air of spacious calm to them, but it�s fair to say they�re not the best equipped for navigating the narrow alleys and streets of a city.

The convenience offered by compact cars in this regard is where they really come into their own. This is the bread and butter of the hatchback and estate industry, where you�ll find smooth handling and tight turning circles come as standard, making light work of parking.

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Considering a Compact

Here at Central Contracts, we feel that the compact is often an underrated class of vehicles. Although the explosion in varying classes of vehicle have meant there�s more choice than ever for savvy car lease searchers, the compact car can not only provide practicality, but also some of the best vehicles available on the market.

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What�s you favourite compact car available right now? What type of car are you thinking of leasing? Let us know in comments below or get in touch on twitter @LeaseCar_UK

It�s not all serious business though. A number of van companies are choosing to use entertaining and unique names to put a smile on faces. Some of these may make you roll your eyes, whereas others will leave you with tears of laughter.

At Central Contracts we�ve scoured the furthest corners of the internet and found some of the best funny company van names that exist. Grab a tissue to wipe away the tears, because you won�t be forgetting these any time soon.

Source: Ronsview.org

We won�t lie, it took us a while to clock onto this one, but when we figured it out we couldn�t stop smiling. This isn�t an independent company that have used this pun to gain attention, it�s a large business based in Northampton that have been trading for over 14 years.

They sell a number of different items ranging from sofas, chairs, mattresses and complete beds from their head office. They also boast free delivery which will reach you within 7 days.

According to a source, the council weren�t too happy with their slogan, but it has made our day anyway.

Source: apocalypsemama.com

A van that must be driven by legendary zombie film director George A. Romero, the company that own this vehicle certainly have a monstrous sense of humour. They’ve turned what can be viewed as a fairly dry industry into something entertaining. Unfortunately, we couldn’t pinpoint who owns this van, but if they read this you have our utmost respect.

Source: Dailymail.co.uk

It�s not so much the name of the van company, but the ironic situation they�ve found themselves in. Thanks to our sources we�ve learnt that the driver was simply driving around south London when his vehicle came to a halt. Thinking he could sneak out of this predicament, he attempted to drive away but ended up tearing his roof off.

Source: 50percenthuman.com

A tribute to the legend that is Lionel Richie, this flooring company clearly wants to say you, say me. Unfortunately, this picture was taken by someone from their car who so we have no information on the business. Whether you think this is bad or not, there�s no denying that it�s definitely eye-catching!

Source: funny-pictures.picphotos.net

Possibly one of the more crude additions to this list, you have to admit they have a sense of humour. This sort of job is often a social taboo, but the self named Turd Busters have turned this completely around. There�s so many puns it�s possible to lose count, thumbs up to them regardless, this tongue-in-cheek name certainly gets points for originality!

Source: jokideo.com

We�re not too sure if this is an actual company van or just someone with a great sense of humour, but this van was spotted parked up outside a house. It does leave us wondering if you can actually pay someone to do nothing at all, we may have to call the number one day and find out.

Source: funnysigns.net

Spotted parked up outside of a sports complex, this van company are brutally honest with what they do. It�s probably the most unconventional name for a business, but there�s no such thing as bad publicity, right? Their air conditioners must definitely do the job if the name�s anything to go by!

Source: Reddit user INATHANB

This particular van became a bit of an urban legend over the years, as people always take a picture when they have the chance. If you look on the right forums you can see a selection of different angles of this prestigious vehicle. It�s done exactly what the slogan intends though, it�s made people aware of their services.

Source: automopedia.org

The perfect way to attract an audience is through humour, and another company who have done exactly this are the ones pictured above. What makes this one of our favourites is the subtle image of the man on the toilet. This business certainly do use �subliminal messaging� in their marketing – it literally does what it says on the tin!

Source: imagur.com

Whoever owns this van has the best sense of humour out of any vehicle featured in this list. What makes this unique compared to the rest is that you could walk past the van and not realise a single thing is wrong.

From quality being spelt qualtiy, the �how�s my driving?� sign asking people not to call them for bad driving, to the being ranked #1 by the owner of the company and his mother, it�s a brilliant van that puts a gigantic smile on our faces. Again, the tongue-in-cheek humour commands respect – and we�ve no doubt this slogan generates a lot of attention – if not business!

Source: Reddit user Polloco

Those that are fans of the film Jurassic Park will love this one. We discovered by browsing forums that this vehicle is a converted cruiser van. It�s great that they�ve managed to find another use for it by selling food. Unfortunately it only tours around American venues, which is a shame because we think UK festivals would definitely benefit from it’s presence.

Source: chroniclelive.co.uk

This one will either make you laugh or cry. Personally, we love the homage to the TV show Law and Order, and the name instantly tells you what industry they�re in. It�s also similar to the next in this list.

Source: scoot.co.uk

We believe this van deserves a slow clap. As cringey as it is to look at and say, it�s a great homage to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. We can imagine a lot of van companies kicked themselves when they missed this golden opportunity of a name.

Van Sense Of Humour

It�s great to see all of these van companies that have a good sense of humour. You never know, it may only be a simple addition to a vehicle but it may cheer someone up if they�re having a tough day and make them think of your business if they need some of your industry help in the future.

For us, these images will never grow old, so if you have any that you think deserve to be on this list then send them over to our Twitter account: @LeaseCar_UK. We can�t wait to see what you find!

Central Contracts is incredibly passionate about everything and anything to do with cars, so we�ve spent time researching all the events you can expect throughout the autumn season. Don�t be deterred by the cold and darker nights, there�s always a car event you can go to and have an amazing time.

The Ken Wharton Memorial Autotests: 19th October

Near the Alcester at The Arrow Mill you can find The Ken Wharton Memorial Autotests, a unique day that anybody can enjoy. You�ll be able see various vehicles compete in close quarters and teams come from Scotland, England and Ireland to take up the challenge.

There are various disciplines these teams need to deal with, and it�s an experience you will never forget. The greatest thing about this event is that it�s free, so there�s no excuse not to attend. There are eight different tests that all offer their own unique challenge, so be sure to take a camera and get some pictures.

Historic Sports Car Club: 18th-19th October

At the world famous Silverstone race track this autumn you can find the Historic Sports Car Club, also known as the HSCC. There�s so many races going on over the two days that there�ll be non-stop thrills and excitement.

Race categories are as follows:

• Single seater formula
• Historic tourers
• GT
• Sports racing
• Production sport

This event is unique as it has an open paddock policy. You�re able to get close to vehicles involved, as well as the interesting drivers who have amazing stories to tell.

The entrance fee on both days is �10, although if you book in advance it�s possible to get a weekend ticket for �15. Entry is free for children under 15 and it�s an event that shouldn�t be missed.

Mimms Honda Day 2014: 26th October

Honda are one of the most well known vehicle manufacturers, established since 1937. In that time they�ve created popular cars and motorbikes, and that�s without mentioning the various energy, marine and garden equipment they supply to people all over the world.

Mimms is one of the largest Honda events you can find in the UK. People travel from Holland, Belgium, France, Scotland, Wales, Isle of Wight, and all across England to celebrate their love for this manufacturer.

At the event you can expect some of the best Hondas the world has to show. It�s one of the few events where you�re able to show off your Honda if you want to. Whether you are part of a club or simply visiting by yourself, if you purchase a special ticket than you�re able to reserve a special parking space in the event area.

You can expect trade stands with unique deals only on this day, a stage with award winning DJ�s, numerous prize giveaways, magazine coverage and much more. Tickets range from �12.50, �15.00 and �20.00 depending on the package you want.

Ultimate Stance 2014: 2nd November

At The Telford International Centre on the 2nd of November is Ultimate Stance 2014, a premium indoor event which showcases UK and European stanced cars. You can expect to see well over 500 different show cars that will be in both outdoor and indoor areas.

Trade stands are what attracts a lot of people to Ultimate Stance, and this years event is no different. Big names that specialise in wheels, clothing, styling, suspension and much more are all waiting for you. There are also some smaller businesses that offer specialised products for stanced cars.

Throughout the day there are a number of displays you can enjoy such as vinyl wrapped show vehicles, retro stanced cars and numerous BMX freestyle sessions. There�s also a detailing demonstration, providing you with the information and tools to create your very own personal design.

Adult tickets are �15.00, although if you book them early you can save �2.50. Any children under the age of 16 are able to enter for free, making it an ideal family day out.

Rockingham Car Track Day Taster Session: 8th November

Have you ever been driving on a normal road and wished you were on a racing track instead? Well now is your chance, with Rockingham allowing you to spend a day on their world famous track. There�s no speed restrictions either, so don�t be afraid to put your foot down!

It can be a nerve racking experience doing a track day for the very first
time. Rockingham allow you to hire an instructor that can explain track etiquette as well as guide you round the route. The track has long straights, tight bends and tricky corners that�ll put all of your skills to the test.

These are just some of the things included in the Rockingham track day:

• Free hot drink and breakfast road for the main driver
• A free session on Rockingham�s wet grip test machine
• A professional instructor who can be booked on the day or in advance
• Access to garages (on a first come first serve basis, although you are able to reserve a space for a small fee)
• It�s also possible to hire a Caterham R300 to drive on the track day if you don�t want to use your own car

The taster session costs �30, although on the same day you can book a full session for �145 (�125 early bird price).

HOMEgrown Monthly Meet: 28th November

On the last Friday of every month, HOMEgrown have a meetup dedicated to German cars. They invite owners and enthusiasts to meet at Beaconsfield services, and it�s definitely worth going to at least once. You can expect German car lovers from different walks of life that share a passion for these vehicles.

One of the reasons this event is so popular is due to the amount of advice you can get. People are more than eager to share tips and tricks they�ve picked up over the years. If you have a German vehicle then you can park in the designated area, although if you have another manufacturer then you�ll have to park elsewhere.

That isn�t to say you aren�t welcome, it�s quite the opposite actually. There�s a number of places to eat at the services, and it can be an enjoyable experience checking out all of the custom designed vehicles.

The meetup is free, although it can be a good idea to take money for any amenities. If you have a German vehicle then this event is the perfect time to show off.

Autumn, a time for car events

Although autumn is near the end of the year, there is still a selection of amazing events you can enjoy. They can be a great day out for the family, and they can also be a fantastic treat for any car fanatic!

Whether you have a passion for classic cars, track days or anything else car related there�s something for you. If you go to any of these events we�d love to hear about it, so send us a Tweet at @LeaseCar_UK.

Here�s the Central Contracts spotlight over the past month:

Bristol Returns!

At Stratrone, we are delighted to have heard that Bristol, a company who went into administration three years ago, have announced an all-new model. Project Pinnacle is their new vehicle, well Pinnacle is the codename for now for this exciting new model which is set to arrive in 2015.

Bristol has been acquired by Kamkorp, who have given Bristol a new lease of life after the 2011 administration woes, and things are now looking up for the classic automotive manufacturer who celebrates its 70th Anniversary next year. Project Pinnacle is the cumulation of the companies attempts to get back on track and the birthday which is set to be celebrated last year is the first phase of �Bristol is Back�, a manufacturing and marketing campaign which aims to bring Bristol back to the forefront of British automotive engineering.

The last model which Bristol rolled out was the Fighter over a decade ago, but the latest plans which were unveiled at the 2014 Concours of Elegance at Hampton Court Palace have left many petrolheads salivating over the prospects of a new car from this classic British brand.

New Mazda MX-5 2015 Revealed

A new Mazda has been revealed, and it is an update on the world�s most popular roadster, the Mazda MX-4. It has been given a whole new look, and after 25 years in the making and 947,000 models worldwide, the latest update will be released in early 2015.

The MX-5 was unveiled simultaneously in Spain, Japan and North America and while engine options remain uncertain at the current time, the cabin is familiar to older Mazda models. The bonnet has been lowered, and the wheelbase reduced with the car benefiting from added driving aggression, and a new aggressively curved, cascading shaped panels and narrow LED headlights,

New car sales rise for 30th consecutive month

During August, new car sales rose for the 30th month in succession, with the total number of cars sold worldwide in 2014 surpassing the 1 million mark. This news is in response to figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), with a grand total of 72, 163 cars being registered during the month.

Typically, August is one of the quietest months for car sales, making up only three per cent of the yearly market. The Ford Fiesta was the top selling car during the month as it has been all year, confirming its dominance as the most popular model on the market at the moment.

The SMMT puts this rise in sales down to consumer confidence, as well as the number of attractive finance offers which are flooding the market and are available for private customers through PCP schemes.

Land Rover Discovery �Sport 2015 revealed

The new Land Rover Discovery Sport has been revealed ahead of its official unveiling at the Paris Motor Show next month. The new model takes its inspiration from the Discover Vision concept which debuted at last years New York auto show, and borrows influence from the luxury Range Rover Evoque and Sport models.

The cabin will feature six USB charging points, dual-zone climate control and air vents for the three seating rows, including an independent control unit for the third row of seating.

The new entry-level premium SUV and will replace the current Land Rover LR2 when it goes on sale early in 2015. The boost in cabin space allows for the unique 5 + 2 seating layout, with the great option of the third row seating which is best used occasionally.

Expect there to be larger and smaller versions of the new Discover over 2015 and 2016, with the manufacturer moving its emphasis to sportiness, luxury and its ability to perform on all terrains.

TFL debates white lines

A study by Transport for London has found that removing central road markings cuts the average speed of drivers by 4 mph. This announcements came about when TFL decided to resurface roadways on the northbound Seven Sisters Road in london, without then deciding not to repaint them. The theory is that without a line giving drivers confidence that oncoming drivers won�t encroach on their side of the road will diminish, and with this uncertainty, speeds will then be reduced.

There are no plans for the full removal of white lines on roads across London, despite the financial gains for authorities in terms of maintenance.

Atalanta Motors to make comeback

Another British manufacturer is set to make its comeback, and it might be one which you have never heard of. Atalanta Motors shut up shop in 1939 due to the outbreak of World War II and only having produced 21 cars. Again, like Bristol, Atalanta made the announcement at the Hampton Court Concours of elegance, and the plan is for the vehicles to stay true to the early and original models whilst incorporating modern and relevant technology.

The fusion of old technologies with those from the 21st century is sure to create unique and innovative vehicles, which if we�re honest look like they are going to be like cars out of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang!

Chevrolet announces 650bhp Corvette z06 pricing

American manufacturer Chevrolet has announced that its new Corvette z06 will cost $83,995 when it goes on sale in early 2015. There will also be a convertible version of the supercharged supercar which will cost upwards of $83,995.

Bearing current exchange rates in mind, that is approximately �48k and �51k respectively, but on import it will be between �68l and the convertible �72k. The z06 features a supercharged 6.2-litre LT4 V8 which produces 650bhp and 650lb ft.

In addition, there will also be several upgrade options, including magnetic ride control, launch control and an electronically controlled limited-slip differential and a variety of different drive models.

Hyundai contemplates a rival for the Nissan Juke

The Nissan Juke is an incredibly popular car here in Europe, and is a part of the booming mini SUV-class. Hyundai bosses have announced that they have been watching the rise of the pioneering Juke, the success of the Vauxhall Mokka, Renault Captur and the Peugeot 2008 with great interest and are now looking to join in on the fun.

Hyundai unveiled the ix25 earlier this year, which is a production version of the car they hope to release in Europe, and while the new i20 is based on �a new platform, any new production mini-SUV�s wouldn�t automatically use that platform.

BMW 1-Series Saloon to launch in 2017

The very first prototypes of BMW�s upcoming 1-series saloon have hit public roads over in Germany as a part of their new development programme. The programme aims to have a new four-door model on sale in the UK by the end of 2017.

The 1-Series Saloon will be based on a new front-wheel drive platform and is planned to be a part of an extended range of models which are going to use BMW�s front-wheel drive systems which are known as the UKL structure. Gearbox choices are likely to include a six-speed manual and nine-speed automatic, while a multi-plate clutch system will also provide four-wheel drive capability on selected xDrive models.

Motorists travelling through Calais warned to be vigilant

A warning has been issued by French authorities after an illegal immigrant was found curled up in a British woman�s car as she returned home from Calais, in northern France. Eurotunnel spokesman John Keefe has issued a statement saying that passengers have nothing to worry about, and that Calais was extremely secure.

Tensions between the camps of migrants held in Calais and staff at the Channel border crossing have been rising in recent months, while the Mayor of Calais has threatened to shut down the port unless Britain sorts out the illegal migrant problem the nation is currently facing.

Are you as excited as we are here at Central Contracts about the news we have covered in this latest blog post? If so, leave a comment in the comment box below or join in the conversation in Twitter.

Car sharing is best suited to those who reside in the big cities where there is the benefit of great transport links, and people who live near one another. It is thought that the theory of car sharing originated in Switzerland in the 1980�s before migrating to the North American city of Quebec in 1994. Car sharing offers those who live in the city an alternative to running an expensive vehicle on their own, with costs shared between two or more people.

Saving the planet

Because car sharing takes more cars off the road, there is less C02 emissions being pumped into the air, resulting in cleaner, fresher air to breathe. This not only improves the carbon footprint of an individual, but this greener transportation choice also has positive benefits on the environment. Global warming is a world issue, and clearly with less vehicles making journeys the effect may only be small, but if enough people think about their transportation plans, the effect would ultimately become greater.

On average, cars release around 149 g/km of C02 into the atmosphere, so if you�re driving 80 km a day, you�d be releasing nearly 12 kg of c02 into the air, which equates to about 2880 kg a year.

By car sharing, you�ll halve these figures, if not more. And with so many cars on the road, and rising costs, thinking about your carbon footprint and making small changes to your daily life is getting more important.

Use less fuel

The process sharing a vehicle means that ultimately less fuel is being used, which in turn is great for the environment. Lowering our dependence on finite fuel sources is �crucial to creating a sustainable future for everyone.

Financial benefits

With a car sharing agreement where those involved are travelling to and from their place of work, commuters can save themselves �1,000 a year compared to if they were driving alone. One of the best reasons to car share is the amount of money you can save. By halving your costs by sharing with two others, or reducing them by thirds by sharing with two, the benefits become clear, and they become clearer when you think about the alternative ways you could spend the money.

Reduced parking costs

Car sharing reduces parking problems such as payment for spaces, as well saving time on actually finding a space as there are less cars on the road.

Reduce wear and tear on the roads

With less cars on the road, there would not only be more space on the roads for others, but there would be less stress on the road networks. This means that less money would need to be spent on maintenance, meaning it could be spent elsewhere within communities.

Saving time

Big cities are suffering from increasing congestion, with the morning commutes on occasion grinding to a standstill. If more people decided to car share, space on the roads would be freed up, saving time in the mornings and after work.

Social benefits

There are plenty of social benefits to car sharing, especially within the workplace with colleagues who might not have spoken in the past. Many opportunities for friendships might arise if the sharing agreement was through the right people, either through shared interests or career ambitions.

Organising a car sharing, or a car pooling routine with employees who live near one another will also save them money, whilst it will also look good on the company itself, offering cost-effective corporate benefits.

Your car

Motoring is expensive, there is no doubt about that. Halving your milage won�t just reduce your petrol costs but it will reduce expensive wear and tear on your vehicle. You won�t spend nearly as much on maintaining parts which wear out quicker such as tires, gearboxes, suspensions and brakes.

Is car sharing really good for the environment?

When looking into this increasingly emerging transportation trend, it�s clear that car sharing is not only good for the planet, but it is also kind to our finances. With more cars leaving factories and forecourts and heading onto the roads, car sharing schemes are becoming more popular.

In summary, here are five things you�ll save by car sharing:

• The planet

• Money

• Time

• Your car

• Your social life

Car sharing has come a long way since 1940�s Zurich, when the idea to purchase and share an unaffordable motor car in a group was formed. In the decades since then, although car ownership is still clearly the most prominent, attitudes to car sharing are clearly changing.

Being honest, cities cannot really support one car per person, and with the rising price of car ownership, it makes perfect sense. Eric Britton, a sustainable transport consultant has suggested: �It you drive less than 10,000 miles a year you should really be car sharing.�

You can car share on the regular commute or even to one off events, like a music festival for example. It doesn�t matter if the car sharing is formal, organised through a reputable website, or is an informal arrangement through friends or through colleagues who live near each other and can therefore travel to work together.

It�s possible to carshare on any journey you make – getting to work, doing the weekly shop, taking the children to school, or even going to the match at the weekend. If you would like to find out much more about car sharing and how it can benefit yourself or your company, you can join in the conversation on Twitter.

The car, which launched in June 2014, is set to revolutionise the market thanks to its emission values, which match that of a compact car, rather than a sports car. Its electric motor and combustion engine are both completely synchronised, which allows it to be as efficient as possible on the road.

Alongside this, it features a stunning aerodynamic design and an excellent eDrive concept. It also has a�BMW TwinPower Turbo 1.5-litre, three-cylinder petrol engine, which provides a driving experience that’s second to none.

We were amazed by the i8 – what do you think? Let us know on Twitter by tweeting us on�@LeaseCar_UK�now!

Cinema has played a great part in increasing (and securing) the popularity of certain cars, and in this blog post we�ll take a look at some of them. Some of the cars we�ll discuss were already considered cool and were sought-after way before the films they were featured in were made, whilst others became even more popular as a result of their appearance in the film.

We�ll focus on American films and American cars in this particular post, as their cinematic and automotive innovations deserve to be simultaneously celebrated.

American Graffiti (George Lucas, 1973)

We�ll start off with a film that might not be so obvious. For those who haven�t seen it, American Graffiti was directed by George Lucas, and in comparison to his other movies it is somewhat less-celebrated (not only within his filmography, but in the grand scheme of seventies American cinema in general). Of course, Lucas is best known for a series of films he made four years – the Star Wars trilogy (Episode IV, Episode V and Episode VI) – which you may have heard of? This has caused American Graffiti to become rather forgotten, but there�s no doubt that it was absolutely instrumental in improving his reputation as an exciting filmmaker. If it had never been made, perhaps Star Wars would never have been.

What�s the film about?

The jaw-droppingly underrated American Graffiti is set in 1962, and documents the evening of a group of Californian teenagers from the post-World War II baby boom generation. For many of them, it�s their last night before they go off to college, and they basically spend it cruising round the streets of their town as they would most other nights. It could be said that this is one of the original – and best – teen films, covering the topics of teenage angst, broken hearts and all the rest of it. American Graffiti is not just a film for fans of classic American cars and early sixties nostalgia – it�s stood the test of time and is just as representative of teenage life now as it was over 40 years ago when it was made.

What cars feature in it?

Perhaps the most memorable car in the movie is the 1932 Deuce Coupe driven by the character John Milner, who wears a white T-shirt and has a cigarette packet rolled up one of the sleeves for most of the film. Towards the end of the film, Milner engages in a drag race with fellow speed-freak Bob Falfa (played by a very young Harrison Ford), who drives one of the film�s other most iconic vehicles – an all-black 1955 Chevrolet One-Fifty. This is the same car that was cinematically immortalised two years earlier in Monte Hellman�s Two-Lane Blacktop.

There is also a lovely 1958 Chevrolet Impala which features heavily in the film, belonging to one of the two most central characters, Steve (played by Ron Howard). The last car we�ll detail is a 1956 Ford Thunderbird – which only features very briefly but is certainly worth mentioning. It belongs to a beautiful blonde girl, who pulls up alongside Curt (played by Richard Dreyfuss), mouths �I love you� to him which in turn causes him to spend the rest of the film trying to track her down.

Two-Lane Blacktop (Monte Hellman, 1971)

This second entry is perhaps another less obvious entry, but an extremely valid one nonetheless. Two-Lane Blacktop is considered one of the greatest ever American �road� movies – for some it�s well up there with Dennis Hopper�s Easy Rider (1969), Terrence Malick�s Badlands (1973) and Arthur Penn�s Bonnie and Clyde (1967). It�s quite minimalistic in regards to the production and obviously had a modest budget, but the film is all the better for it. It perfectly encapsulates 1970s Middle America and Route 66.

Two-Lane Blacktop stars singer-songwriter James Taylor and Beach Boys drummer Dennis Wilson – and you can certainly tell they�re not actors by trade, as their acting is, well, quite awful. The funny thing is, though, it works wonderfully as the characters are supposed to be somewhat wooden – known simply as �the Driver� (Taylor) and �the Mechanic� (Wilson). The dialogue is minimalistic (think Ryan Gosling in Drive) just like most aspects of the production, and it has an obvious existentialist outlook which is transmitted through the stark imagery and moodiness of it all.

What�s the film about?

Two-Lane Blacktop is �about life� (like most films are), but in regards to its actual plot, it�s about two street young vagrants who drive from town to town, earning their living by challenging locals to street races and beating them. They basically live in their car – one races it and the other fixes and modifies it between races.

What cars feature in it?

The car belonging to the Driver and the Mechanic is a 1955 Chevrolet One-Fifty – very similar to the one used in American Graffiti. This one, however, is not an immaculately polished black one, but a primer grey one with a great deal of performance-enhancing modifications (it still looks extremely cool despite not making any effort to do so).

There�s also a yellowy-orange 1970 Pontiac GTO, which is driven by one of the film�s supporting characters – who is known only as G.T.O. It�s worth pointing out that we learn none of the characters� names – which is undoubtedly on purpose, reinforcing the idea that the two main character and Oates� are defined more by their vehicles than anything else. The Pontiac GTO is considered one of the all-time classic American muscle cars – it�s one you�d associate with masculinity for sure.

Bullitt (Peter Yates, 1968)

Moving on to slightly more widely recognised films, we�ll now discuss the San Francisco-set detective thriller Bullitt, starring Steve McQueen. It features one of the most famous car chases in cinema history (alongside the one from William Friedkin�s The French Connection), which takes place in central San Francisco and all over the surrounding area.

McQueen is now considered one of the all-time greatest movie stars, but on top of that he is regarded as a style icon – some would say the �coolest� actor ever to have lived. It was arguably Bullitt that secured this title for him – and it was more than just his clothes that worked towards it. In the film, McQueen�s car truly acts as an extension of himself – and it�s a car that we all know and would love to own: the Ford Mustang. But we�ll delve further into the specifics of that a little later.

What�s the film about?

The film�s title character, Lieutenant Frank Bullitt, is assigned – along with two of his colleagues – to provide around-the-clock protection for a witness who is about to testify in a mafia court case. The three detectives take it in turns to guard the witness� room at the hotel he�s been ordered to stay at, and low and behold some mafia hitmen come to kill him. At this point, Bullitt is out with his girlfriend at a club as it�s not his shift, and the assassins firstly kill the detective on shift before shooting the witness – almost killing him but not quite. A few scenes later at the hospital, Bullitt prevents another assassination attempt and the plot unravels nicely from there.

What cars feature in it?

Lt. Bullitt�s car is a 1968 Ford Mustang GT with absolutely nothing on it – no �F O R D� lettering on the bonnet and no �M U S T A N G� across the back – it�s extremely minimalistic, just like its laconic driver. The colour is also quite unusual – a dark metallic green – which also adds to the minimalism, whilst also projecting some individuality. I�ll warn you now that during the car chase, the car does indeed suffer a knock or two – but you�ll be glad to know that it�s nothing beyond repair.

The Mustang�s opposite number, driven by the villains with whom Bullitt engages in the heart-thumping chase, is a 1968 Dodge Charger R/T. This car is black in colour, which is somewhat suitable given its hitmen inhabitants.

The great thing about the car chase is that it starts out as the hitmen tailing Bullitt, before the latter turns the tables completely – triggered by some serious revving of the great-sounding engine.

One could definitely argue that the Bullitt Mustang is the most drooled-over car in cinema history, as it blends great aesthetics with minimalism. Many people would say that the 1960s Ford Mustangs are the best – which is rather hard to argue with. The car was first released in 1964, and has gone through all sorts of changes in the years since. The �64 – �69 models are definitely the best-looking – that�s not up for debate – but the �68 one is probably the definitive best out of those ones. Bullitt may be partly responsible for that. As we said at the start of the blog, it�s amazing what a film can do to the way people see a certain car (or model of that car).

Thelma & Louise (Ridley Scott, 1991)

Another classic American road movie, Thelma & Louise was released 20 years after Two-Lane Blacktop which we talked about earlier. Again, it�s an existentialist buddy film featuring stunning shots of the American landscape, with a timeless American car being as central to the plot as the two main characters.

The film�s two stars – Geena Davis (Thelma) and Susan Sarandon (Louise) – were both nominated for the Best Actress award at the 1992 Oscars, and though neither won, this is some achievement. Thelma & Louise is also seen as an extremely important film for the feminist movement, as it heavily (and quite rightly) criticises patriarchal societies. It could be argued that before this film, the American road movie was a very male concept.

What�s the film about?

The title characters are best friends. Thelma is married to an irritating and somewhat misogynistic man called Darryl, whilst the unmarried Louise, unlike Thelma, is no pushover. When the film opens, the two of them are just getting ready to drive to the mountains in Louise�s car for a short holiday.

They stop on the way at a bar full of cowboy and cowgirl types, where Thelma starts to let her hair down. She meets a man called Harlan and dances with him a great deal, before he attempts to take advantage of her outside later on in the evening. Luckily, Louise turns up before anything bad happens – armed with a gun – and threatens to shoot Harlan. The cad walks away, but shouts venomous insults towards the women as he makes his exit, at which point Louise sees red and shoots him.

What cars feature in it?

Unlike the other entries in this blog, Thelma & Louise only really features one classic American vehicle of note: the 1966 Ford Thunderbird. Belonging to Louise, this turquoise convertible is absolutely stunning. In the film, you could say that the Thunderbird serves to reinforce the idea that these women are perfectly independent and able to take care of themselves, as it�s a car you would probably not generally associate with women. It also plays a huge part in the film�s gripping finale – as anyone who�s seen the film will no doubt be able to recall.

A summary

Did you enjoy this blog? We tried to pick some films that were not quite as obvious as some of the ones you commonly see on posts such as this. Here at Central Contracts we�re passionate about cars of all types, and like many of you we�re really big fans of classic American ones!

Can you think of any more great American cars from throughout film history? We�d love to hear from you, so please don�t be afraid to pipe up and leave a comment in the section below.

Images courtesy of�motortrend.com, bangshift.com, standfordclark.wordpress.com and blogspot.com

As with any form of innovation, designs can become more and more ludicrous. From muffin cars to leopard print sofa cars, some of the creations that exist are intriguing and strange at the exact same time. The strangest bit? The majority of these vehicles are road legal. It�s possible for you to drive the world�s fastest bed on a country road if you so wish.

What a lot of people don�t realise about cars is that it�s a form of art. It�s easy to see when you look at the different innovations over the years that have resulted in prototypes that can look both futuristic and classicly styled.

These vehicles may not be appropriate for driving on the motorway, or other conventional uses, they�re still amazing to look at. It�s all about a person pushing their imagination to the max, creating something that is not only functional but entertaining to look at.

So, without further adieu, let�s take a look at some of the wackiest vehicles you�re ever likely to see.

The Top-Gear double decker cars

One of the most famous Top-Gear moments was in series 11 when they had one of the most interesting challenges they�ve had on the show yet. Double decker cars must be the result of one of the craziest thought processes ever made.

These two cars are stacked on top of each other, with the top car controlling the steering and the bottom controlling the speed. It requires a good amount of teamwork, and more often than not results in comedy gold.

Whilst they may not be ideal for the daily commute to work, it�s surely an amazing way to spend an afternoon. Certain event organisers allow people to ride in these vehicles as part of a weird car day. Just make sure you don�t take a corner too fast, or you may find yourself waiting for a crane to set you upright.

Cupcake Cars

Do all of the identical vehicles being pushed off production lines bore you to no end? The cupcake car was created by an artist named Lia Ongrace. They�re amazing to look at, coming in a variety of colours, but they aren�t the speediest vehicle ever created. Their max speed is 7 miles an hour, but they�re more about aesthetic pleasure rather than racing.

Originally intended for Burning Man event as a rolling art installation, they are truly something to behold. Nowadays you can see people at festivals, cruising on by with a grin on their face as their chocolate sprinkled cupcake makes its way along.

You can actually purchase a cupcake car if you so wish. You�re even able to customise it to however you like, including the helmet and the decorative icing sugar. One can be yours for the prices of �14598.11, so you may want to save up for a while before you put down a payment.

Here�s a look at the cupcakes in action:

WaterCar Python

Whilst the Southern California based company WaterCar is definitely not one of the first companies to create a vehicle that can drive on roads and sail on waters, they do have the honour of being able to say that they have created on the most exciting to date.

WaterCar have made the bold statement that they have created the world�s fastest amphibious vehicle. You may think this would be a select market, but you�d be amazed at the amount of people that are attracted these transport options. You�ll find that you�d be spending around �116773.32 to actually own one.

One of the first things that attracts people to this car is its styling. The majority of amphibious vehicles aren’t too pleasant to look at, but the WaterCar flips this completely around. It has been created to look like a Chevy Camaro, and it can easily switch from drive to sail mode in the matter of seconds.

They�ve become so popular that even newer designs are being created. One of the sportiest versions of this vehicle, known as the Python, has a body made from fiberglass, giving it the buoyancy that a boat has. WaterCar have made the claim that the Python is able to up to 60 miles an hour in the water, and 125 miles an hour when on land.

This is all powered by an impressive LS1 Corvette engine, giving it the adaptability to work in both aquatic and land situations.

Terrafugia Transition

Nowadays, flying commercially is getting more stressful as the years go by. You get crowded into a plane with a bunch of strangers, get restricted with luggage dimensions and get charged a ridiculous amount for simple food. That isn�t even factoring in getting to the airport. You either have to find public transport or drive and pay for parking.

A Boston based light aircraft company known as Terrafugia may be the ideal answer you�ve been looking for. It�s what has been dubbed as, a �roadable aircraft�. With the Terrafugia Transition you can drive down to the airport in this vehicle on the roads. When it�s takeoff time the driver simply presses a button which transforms the Transition into a flying machine.

A set of stubby, fold down wings will be deployed. The Transitions rear mounted pusher propeller then goes into launch mode, allowing it to ride down a runway and take off into the sky.

One of the great things about this vehicle is that it doesn�t sacrifice on quality on either the ride or flight aspect. Like in the majority of road worthy transports, a steering wheel and brake pedals made driving a normal experience. A stick and rudder pedals are also provided, making it easy to fly no matter how experienced the pilot is.

Something that worries a lot of pilots that fly person planes is the weather conditions. Flights can be cancelled due to a drastic change in weather. With the Terrafugia Transition, this is not a problem. If you�re flying along and you�re suddenly hit with bad weather conditions, you can land on the ground and continue your journey on wheel.

Green Grass Vehicles

One of the biggest focuses on modern vehicle design is being more economical. People are choosing to use alternative fuels, fuel efficient transport and even vehicles that run off electricity. It isn�t often that people state that they want to have a really GREEN mode of transport.

A wide range of people are choosing to make their car more aesthetically pleasing by putting green grass on them. In some cases it�s cleverly designed fiber glass, but in others it�s real and needs watering on a regular basis.

The company Innocent have embraced the green grass vehicle idea, having ice cream vans that are covered in grass to reinforce their message of eco friendliness. It�s a great way of catching peoples eyes, which is why you can spot a lot of them at festivals.

Although these forms of vehicles have been praised for their uniqueness, they aren�t appropriate for everyone. Take me for example. I suffer from hayfever and I�ve sneezed at least four times writing this section!

Dodge Tomahawk

Try and name a vehicle that has 500 horsepower. Struggling? Would you guess that a vehicle with that horsepower is a motorbike?

The Dodge Tomahawk is a concept motorbike that seems to throw practicality out of the window. Originally released in 2003, a Dodge spokesman is quoted as saying, �a bold faced slap against mediocrity�.

They�ve achieved that alright. It has a full V10 engine that is normally used in one of Dodge�s fastest sports cars. They don�t try to hide it either. It can be seen bulging out underneath the main fuel tank.

As motorbikes go, it has a large body with stubby handlebars not normally seen with other vehicles like this. Because of the length of the Tomahawk, you won�t be overtaking any vehicle on corners, well, unless it�s a tractor.

You may be thinking why a person would want to own a motorbike that can�t corner well. When you�re able to go from 0 to 60 miles per hour in just 2.6 seconds there isn�t any need for corners.

I can imagine you�re wondering how much you can get one for. Well, they were all sold in a short space of time for a price just higher than �291933.30 each. One of the most surprising things about this vehicle is that it isn�t road legal, meaning you�d need your own private land to drive it about.

It may be baffling why this vehicle even exists in the first place, but it isn�t about the actual motorbike, if that makes sense. Dodge wanted to show to everybody how they�re thinking outside of the box. This is definitely true, although I don�t know how many non road legal vehicles you can make while still making a product.

Catmobiles

No, this isn�t the chosen vehicle of the villain/heroine Catwoman, although it�s still just as bizarre. Again, we take a trip to Burning Man to look at one of the strangest vehicles made.

The whole body of these cars are shaped like a Cheshire cat, definitely making them one of strangest vehicles on this list. Burning Man is a festival that is held each year, celebrating creativity, love and self expression each year all the way over at Black Rock Desert, Nevada.

One of the main rules is that motorised vehicles with the purpose of transporting are mostly not allowed, going against the general spirit of the even. Slow moving cars are allowed, but they do require official approvement.

Just imagine cruising along at 5 miles per hour in the sunny flats of Nevada, basking in the sun and appreciating the freedom. That�s the purpose of the catmobile, style over substance.

The Floppy Disk car

Depending on how old you are, you�ll remember what a floppy disk is. Before the introduction of portable hard drives and USB sticks you were stuck with a square piece of plastic which could hold a grand total of 2.88 MB. Now they are completely obsolete, but someone came up with another use.

First spotted at Fremont Fair, the owner plastered the entire body with floppy disks, giving them a better use than sitting there and collecting dust. As floppy disks are made from plastic, it�s actually a durable material. You may not be able to store any files on them anymore, but to be honest it�s doing a better job than it would be doing stuck in your attic.

Floppy disks were mass produced, meaning that there�s a lot of them available to purchase for a low price. They are also lightweight, meaning they can be plastered to the vehicle without any drastic change in drive quality. You could could go to a charity shop and find plenty to buy, but more often than not by simply asking a person you�ll find that they have numerous floppy disks stored away which they�d be more than happy to give you.

Weird and wonderful vehicles in the future

Looking over these vehicles it�s clear to see the creativity that has been put when building them. It�s like being a child again, being allowed to indulge in even the silliest of creations. I genuinely hope that we see more in the future which are even more ridiculous yet more technologically advanced.

Motor transport will always be important for peoples day to day activities. The industry will always be trying to pioneer new and unique travel inventions which can be driven by anyone. We can only wait to see what the future holds.

What did you think of this blog? Do you know of any other weird and wonderful vehicles that you would include on this post? Let us know in the comments below!

It was only at the end of May when Google unveiled the latest version of its driverless vehicle; an electric two seater that has no steering wheel or other driver controls. Google have always had one eye on the future and innovation, but how are people across the world responding to this latest announcement? There will be the purists who are against the idea; whilst there will those who are not afraid to look forward, who are excited by the future and the attractions that new technologies bring.

Instead of adapting cars from other manufacturers with its own technologies, Google are set to develop a car which has a stop-go button, but no controls, steering wheel or pedals. The vehicle looks like a small city car which has been designed to look friendly and non-threatening. There will be seating for two passengers, a flexible windscreen and the front end will be made from a foam like material (for the safety of pedestrians). With a max speed of 25 mph, it isn’t quick in the slightest, but who would want to travel any faster in a prototype vehicle which doesn’t even have a steering wheel?

During early testing the cars will be equipped with extra controls for safety so that drivers can take over if there is ever any problems. The controls will just plug-in and plug-out with ease and the hope is that one day they will be stored away altogether so that it truly is a driverless experience. The vehicles will use a combination of lasers and radar sensors along with camera data so it can drive itself to the location of your choosing.

Dependant on Google�s road mapping technology to get around, it has also been adapted specifically for this programme and is currently being tested on the company’s current fleet of vehicles. Google want to make what has long been the stuff of science fiction, a reality. This move turns Google a leader in this area as they suggest they want the cars to be properly tested and on the road by 2015. When compared to Nissan�s projection of 2020 for their fully autonomous cars, it is a bold statement from the giants of Silicon valley.

The plan is for an initial 100 autonomous prototypes which will look somewhere between a Volkswagen Beetle and a Smart Car and it puts Google ahead of a majority of the major automobile manufacturers who are nearly all working on similar technology.

Google suggest that their design is all about safety. They have conducted thousands of miles across Silicon Valley and sunny California in their car which is packed with lasers, cameras, radar systems and a state of the art GPS. If 90% of accidents are caused by driver error, can eliminating the need for the driver to be in control actually banish accidents from the roads altogether? The insurance companies certainly wont be best pleased if that is the case!

Google are rightfully very excited about what they have been developing, a fleet of semi-autonomous electric or hybrid vehicles could potentially make our roads and motorways much safer whilst simultaneously dealing with environmental issues. Time is also key – imagine just what you could be doing as your little car drives the both of you from A to B. Putting on that makeup or finishing your toast wouldn’t be dangerous or even a driving offence. Please note that policies would certainly have to be developed before that was confirmed.

Here’s ten things you might not know about the car and a few we�ve already covered. Basically a summary of what it will offer:

• It�s electric
• You summon the car via smartphone
• There are no pedals or steering wheel
• The car will have a range of 100 miles
• The car will navigate via a combination of GPS, lasers and cameras
• No worries if you hit anything, the body is made from foam and other softer materials
• Maximum speed will be 25 mph
• Designers purposely made the front look like happy face
• Google plans to partner up with a manufacturer when they look to mass produce the car
• There are currently 100 self driving cars being built in Detriot

That was our introduction to the self driving car, but how will it work for the driver?

How will it work for the driver?

We say driver, or is it passenger? There is no apparent term for someone who travels in Google�s self driving vehicle but one things for sure; the technology will be very highly interlinked with the plethora of different gadgets the company already has on offer. When getting into the car, by using your smartphone, you will then be able tell the car where you want to go using Google Maps before pressing the �Start� button to get the journey underway. When the journey is complete, the car turns itself off, the passengers press �stop� and there you have it, a fully automated journey.

It is not really an evolution of the car, it is a revolution against it. Computer software has grown in influence in many areas of life over the past twenty years and the car is no different. Google are effectively ripping up the rule book and are disrupting the status quo. We�ve had GPS systems in cars for a short while now but this time the rule book is being disregarded. It might seem exciting to you, or it might not, but what are commentators saying across the globe about it and how do they perceive what its effect and impact will be in the coming years?

Argument for

Now, lets build a case for Google�s latest invention. Is there anything out there which suggests it is a surefire solution to any of lifes current motoring problems? First, imagine you were a 78 year old who had lost independence due to your driving licence being rescinded. Wouldn’t this be the perfect solution for climbing in, programming, and then taking you to visit the Grandchildren? This would also be useful for say, those with disabilities and medical reasons which mean they cannot get behind the wheel of a car. Epileptic people could benefit from this autonomous technology as there would be no risk from them being in control of a vehicle whatsoever.

You could even treat yourself to one too many beers after work and not have to worry about driving yourself home; you would be free to enjoy your evening without the shackles of the drink drive limit runining your enjoyment. Who knows where you would programme your car to take you, probably the kebab house, but we�ll cross that bridge when we come to it.

With human error eliminated, the roads would be safer for everyone; the ability of the technology to spot cyclists from 200 yards away could save lives. Each time somebody stepped out in front of the vehicle, the sensors would ensure that the car grinds to a halt and there is no collision.

Texting whilst driving would not be a problem, and whilst there would have to be clear guidelines, who could possibly say that it wouldn’t be safe?

The final, and probably the most prominent point to make in the case forthese new autonomous vehicles, is that they will go some way towards a ensuring a greener future for everyone on this planet. There might be privacy issues with Google and the data they collect but it shows they are thinking seriously about the future and how electric or hybrid technology could really move us away from our combustion engine and fossil fuel dependant society.

From reports that have come out, they do seem like nifty little vehicles that are able to navigate traffic cones whilst they also are able to brake to avoid collisions, with the cameras on the roof able to see in 600 feet in all directions.

We�ve made the case for, now lets look at the counter argument. Who is opposing Google and their new innovation?

Argument against

First and foremost, should they even be legal? I mean, who is to blame if something drastic happens and there is loss of life and the destruction of property? Are those travelling in the vehicle at fault, or is it Google themselves? The worst accident to happen so far was one of the prototypes being rear ended, but with the soft materials which enclose the vehicle, there were no problems at all.

The cost is a huge stumbling block for any potential buyer. Like any new technology, they could begin at the higher echelons of price brackets. It has not been announced yet but critics are widely sceptical about this. Google also need to convince the general public that they will be perfectly safe when they aren�t controlling the vehicle themselves. When top speed is only 40 mph, it will have people asking questions such as �If it is supposedly so safe, why can’t you travel at 100 mph or the like?�

Purists would say it takes all of the fun out of driving, the thrill of the country roads or travelling quickly on motorways and autobahns, the limited range in speed would make longer journeys quite arduous. Not forgetting that the furthest distance you can travel is 100 mph, you won’t even be travelling that far in any case.

Can you trust Google mapping? That�s another question that is being asked. There are countless stories of drivers being taken down dirt paths that lead to dead ends as opposed to choosing the correct route. HVG drivers have become stuck down narrow alleys, so Artificial Intelligence still has an awful lot to answer for. Would you also trust a computer to avoid pot holes or uneven road surfaces, especially with the current state of the road network in Britain.

Our final point on this matter looks at privacy. Google are big users of data; they collect it from our search engine queries and collate it from their various other products such as Google+. Wouldn’t a car be another invasion of our privacy? We may already be transmitting a signal from wherever we are via our smartphones but a data led car might be one step too far. Big Brother is always finding new ways to look down upon us and keep an eye on what we�re up to.

Time will only tell whether the self-driving electric car will take off and become a regular sight in towns and cities across the world. Google would love to increase their control over everyday lives by encroaching on us when we are driving; let alone monitoring our internet usage and emails for example. In terms of the driving experience, here at Central Contracts, we are all real petrolheads and we�re all dubious about the experience that the cars will give you.

With your location data being collated, who knows who will be able to access your exact location on the planet. It would be like driving the ultimate automatic car, and it has real potential to be one of the most advanced and important life saving technologies the automotive industry has ever seen. With our increasingly busy road networks, and growing pollution, they offer a real green and safe alternative to the cars which now rule the streets.

Have you had a look at the Google self-driving car and do you feel it could be of benefit to you, on the school run or on the commute for example? If so, get in touch with us here at Central Contracts by simply sending us a tweet.

Image courtesy of jalopnik.com/

It�s really what we get our driving licenses for, to be able to enjoy the ultimate freedoms of the open road. Once we get out of town and avoid the bumper to bumper traffic jams which halt our morning commutes, we are lucky to be able to head onto some of the most breathtaking roads in the world. Britain is undeniably beautiful, and through driving, we can discover what�s really great about our rugged little Island. We have bred automobile manufacturers like Jaguar, Aston Martin and Bentley, while racing legends Stirling Moss, James Hunt, Damon Hill and Lewis Hamilton all learnt their craft on the roads we find in cities and on mountain passes up and down the British Isles.

This blog looks to bring you the ten very best driving roads in Britain, and you can forget the soul destroying traffic jams, thank god. We have put our foot to the floor and found stretches of tarmac which twist and turn through stunning scenery, luscious landscapes and sweeping stretches of road which any driver can use to test their vehicles to the limit. These roads can be found in England, Scotland and Wales, they have inspired many, while some have featured numerous times on Jeremy Clarkson�s Top Gear. They all allow those behind the wheel to indulge in a real sense of adventure and embrace true escapism, petrolhead style!

There is nothing that evokes such a sense of freedom as a road trip, there’s the endless possibilities, after all, all roads lead to somewhere. It is all about being in charge of your own destiny, negotiating the twists and turns that the open road is one of life’s greatest joys. The temptation to test your driving machine to the limit is all too easy on these unrivalled stretches which carve their ways along mountain passes, through green valleys and over sodden moors. While there is the temptation to test your vehicle to the limit, these stretches of road also encourage you to stop and get the camera out, taking in the snow capped mountains and natural watercolour landscapes which surround you and your chosen driving machine.

At Central Contracts we are in the car business quite simply, for our complete and utter adoration for all things auto. We love providing our customers with the latest models from the worlds greatest manufacturers, but we also like to throw in a little extra as well.

When leasing a car from us, why not go for a spin along one of these incredibly wild parcours, show off your new wheels and get those jealous locals rubbernecking. Forget getting from A to B, afterall, there is a lot more to life than that. A road trip offers an awful lot more than any other type of journey, buckle in and engage those engines, get ready for the top ten driving roads which lie on our doorsteps here in Britain.

Moffat to Edinburgh

This 51 mile stretch of road along the Scottish borders is one of the toughest driving roads in the whole of Britain, it�s tight corners are excitingly coupled with long testing straights where incredibly high speeds can be reached. The road climbs and winds under the huge expanse of the skies above, travelling over trickling rivers and rugged mountains which appear out of nowhere, the scenery becomes increasingly wild the further you drive.

The route starts in Moffat, a historic spa town. While things start pretty and quaint, it isn�t long before things really heat up. Passing the absurdly named �Devil�s Beef Tub�, the road dramatically climbs up into this deep mountainous hollow before heading on relentlessly towards the Scottish capital city.

The A701 heads northwards throughout its duration, there is no real let up. It is an undulating ride, the fast flowing, sweeping corners plunge and roll as you try to focus on the road in front, whilst avoiding distraction from the audacious scenery which engulfs you. It isn�t the trickiest journey on our list but makes up for it in the sheer dramatism that the surrounding landscape offers.

The Snake Pass

One of Britain�s most challenging roads, the A57 between Manchester and Sheffield tangles its way through the Peak District, linking our two great northern cities. The road offers a superb challenge along with exceptional scenery. Soon after the road ramps up, heading out of Glossop, drivers are treated to a section which tumbles through jagged cliff edges and daunting drops before it then levels out along the top of the barren moors.

As you could imagine from the name, it�s a twisty affair. Many use this stretch between Greater Manchester and South Yorkshire as though it was a Rally Championship stage. It offers a challenge to every driver, and every motoring enthusiast should give it a go. The best time to take on Snakes Pass is during the summer when the views are there to be seen, during the winter it is often cut off due to heavy snow which closes this 14 mile stretch of extraordinarily unique British road.

A87 – Scottish Highlands

The A87 Stretches 100 miles through the stunning Scottish Highlands, there is no need to look any further if you are after a driving adventure. Running from Invergarry to the Isle of Skye, this is possibly the most remote stretch of road in the British Isles. It is easy to become mesmerized by the subtle greens and rolling terrain which the road navigates from start to finish.

Travelling along the north shores of Loch Garry and Loch Cluanie before reaching Skye (at it�s most northern point), this Scottish road takes about two and a half hours to complete. Be sure to be prepared for absolutely anything, the A87 throws up all manor of different obstacles, there are long stretches (pictured above), while there are narrower parts which take in the beautiful mountains of the Western side of Scotland. The varied selection of bends is wonderful, it�s certainly a journey for the driving purist. The road continually swoops through tiny Scottish hamlets all the way along. A highly recommended route for any driving enthusiast!

Cat and Fiddle Road

Popular with both drivers and riders, you will find a host of motor bikes and cars hurtling along the Cat and Fiddle Road all year round. The road is formed by parts of the A537, A54 and A54, is is famous for the scenic views it offers of the Greater Manchester area and really is a hair raising, roller coaster ride of a journey.

While it has been tagged as the �most dangerous road in Britain�, this doesn’t mean you should avoid it. Quite the contrary. This 12 mile stretch between Macclesfield and Buxton gets its name from the Cat and Fiddle Inn which sits at the highest point. The tight bends turn into even tighter hairpins as the road rises up through the Peak District, the road requires maximum attention but it is well worth the trip.

Penrith to Alston and Haydon

This 35 mile stretch has been named by many as the �greatest drive in Britain� and is another sublime addition to our list. The A686 is incredibly fun to drive, running down from Penrith in the north through Alson and down onto the A69 just after passing Haydon Bridge. There are many beautiful villages to be taken in, thats if you can avert your eyes from the road in front.

The road takes in the �roof of England� and is extremely popular with bikers.

The Buttertubs Pass

The Buttertubs Pass is a narrow stretch of B road which consists of fast sweeping straights and sharp turns. If you love driving for pleasure, you will find everything you could ever want along this 5.5 mile stretch in the Yorkshire Dales. Jeremy Clarkson rated The Buttertubs Pass as �England�s only truly spectacular road”, he clearly is a fan of the stunning views, challenging bends and swift descents which provide a truly great driving experience found nowhere else in the UK.

Ribblehead Run

One of Yorkshire�s hidden treasures, Ribblehead run is a great route to test your Central Contracts vehicle on, it doesn’t matter what season, this road is fantastic for taking a leisurely spin, or putting your foot down if you wish. The fluid flowing road cuts through the hills which rise up from the landscape all around, it really is a picturesque 16 mile route which is popular with drivers, cyclists and motorcyclists. The road passes by the fantastically engineered Ribblehead Viaduct whilst also allowing drivers and passengers to take in breathtaking views of Chapel-le-Dale and Ingleborough. Do be aware of loose sheep who may stray onto the road, but apart from that, enjoy!

Black Mountain Pass

We are now heading over to Wales to take a look at the A4069 which travels between Gwaun-Cae-Gurwen and Llandovery, it is quite possibly the best driving route in Wales, offering a mixture of technical hairpin bends with long straight sections which sweep alongside the outstanding Welsh countryside. The Black Mountain Pass was one of the best kept driving secrets until Jeremy Clarkson (that man again) went and featured it on a Top Gear road test. Surrounded by the Brecon Beacons, the road is not only demanding for drivers, but it offers delightful views for passengers who don�t need to have their eyes glued to the road in front. At around 23 miles, the road summits at 493 meters above sea level, winding over the Black Mountain before it joins the A40 a Llandovery.

St Ives to St Just

This 13 mile stretch of road links up the picturesque and bustling little coastal town of St Ives with St Just which is a short trip along the beautiful coastal stretch. Admittedly, to get down to the tip of Cornwall, you would need to travel along the arduous A30, but don�t let that put you off. The B3306 road is one of Cornwall�s and one of Britains finest driving experiences. It offers sweeping bends and high speed straights, whilst the views aren’t half bad either.

If you ever find yourself holidaying down in St Ives, try to find an excuse to head out and experience this unpredictable route. It is narrow in parts, you will never know what to expect around the corner, especially during the holiday season. It really is road you can get absorbed in.

The Cheddar Gorge

Last but no means least, the final entry on our top ten driving roads in Britain is the Cheddar Gorge road, this 14 mile stretch which is situated in the West Country offers a variety of scenery, from the rugged gorge itself to the road which opens up as you head towards Ashwick. If you are ever in this part of the world, it would be a mistake to miss out on this road which is dictated by the natural forms that mother nature has formed all around.

If you�re lucky enough to live close enough to any of these spectacular roads and have not yet experienced their trills, what are you waiting for? If you are looking for an exciting driving experience in Britain, you have found the right place. We aren’t just good for providing cheap car leasing, we look to offer all our customers with the complete driving experience.

Our guide will ensure you have a way to escape the rush hour traffic which clogs up our towns and cities, we have covered amazing roads across the country which all look to offer petrolheads the ultimate thrill and provide a form of escapism you just wouldn’t get without a raucous V8 engine underneath you!

Are there any roads in your area which we have missed out? Let us know if there are any scenic driving routes in Britain that you think deserve to be included on our list! Join in the conversation on

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