Shut Up and Drive

Car Insurance of Teenagers

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle) — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 00:47:09 PDT

Looking for the perfect car insurance that is ideal for teenagers is possibly one of the matters that give headache to our parents when we teens are growing older and want to have a car that we could drive for ourselves. We as teens and our parents as well must be properly informed that the rates for teenagers are rapidly increasing like the speed of light. There different factors that contribute to high rates for the teens’ car insurance. For example, some of the teens today do not have sufficient knowledge on driving and it puts the lives of teens on high risk. Another reason is that teens are not yet married and have no excellent credit record. If you and your parents are looking for cheaper rates, then you have to try to consider the factors mentioned to lower the price of the car insurance.

There are a few ways which you can carry out to reduce their risks. First of all, the teenager must need to get a type of car which is suitable for them. Insurance companies will be happier if the parents provide their teenagers with their old and small cars rather than giving them the expensive large cars. The latter undoubtedly will need higher cost to insure compared to the former because they have higher market value and costs a lot to repair in the event any damages happen to them. Older and smaller cars on the other hand are also safer to drive and can provide you with better gas mileage.

It is also the responsibility of the parents to also educate the teens on the right ways to drive safely. Parents have to remind their kids that they are not supposed to speed or under alcohol influence while driving as these offenses will lead them to heavy penalties once they are caught by the authorities. Your insurance company will also be skeptical of the teens’ driving skills and habits once the teens are bombarded with many tickets and fines.

The next thing that parents and teens should do is to incorporate all the safety and security devices to be able to prevent accidents as well as thefts happening on the car. There are some affordable safety devices that you can find in the market today. These components will ensure that the teens and the cars are free from any untoward incidents. So with just a few costs, your teens are perfectly safe on the road.

Besides reducing their risks, you should also perform a very important step which is shop around using the Internet to compare quotes between different companies if you are busy with your work. You can get a lot of information with just a few clicks away. Do not take up the first plan that you saw without comparing between at least three companies as you might easily miss any great deals. You might also be lucky enough to secure an offer from online insurance companies as they usually better prices because they have almost no overhead expenses by doing research online. As a wise consumer, you should know what you can do to get the best deal of everything. You should practice this attitude in searching for the cheap car insurance with best protection as well.

RC Cars: Toys for the Big Boys

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle) — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 00:54:13 PDT

Many people tend to look at Radio Control Cars as just mere toys and sometimes but this kind of thinking is actually close to reality. When people think of remote control cars they usually think visualize the small electric cars which are given as a gift to a son or daughter and fly around the living room, around the household obstacles and scare the family cat.

But as time progresses, there has been an increase in the popularity of these RC cars due to the increase in technology, lowing of costs and the fantastic designs which companies come up with. What people do not realize is that remote control cars vary greatly from the family RC Cars as mentioned previous, nitro cars which run on nitro fuel and petrol remote control cars which run on unleaded petrol.

The remote control cars of your kids usually require you to either insert batteries into the car and the radio control handset, or charge a rechargeable battery inside the car but still put normal batteries in the controller. This has the advantage over the other models in that they can be recharged over and over again and does not cost anymore, apart from paying for the electric which is next to nothing. These cars range from cars which costs a few £'s to cars which are more specialized which can cost around £80. The only other cost is buying new batteries when they stop charging as they do not last forever, but even that costs is not much at all for a pack of 4.

Next on the family tree of remote control cars are nitro cars, which are purpsely designed for people who already knows the ins and outs and has years experience of rc cars and either are looking for the next car up, or into competition racing or something in-between. Nitro rc cars require running in, just like a normal road car in that the parts are new and the fuel and lubricants needs to run through the car, which can be a time consuming and at times a frustrating process. This is due to the car possibly stalling, stuttering or just not moving at all which requires problem solving but once the car is up and running, can be extremely fast and outrun a top of the range electric car on acceleration. When it comes to full on racing, they are usually neck and neck but can be tweaked like normal cars to give even more speed.

They run on nitro fuel which is purchased from model shops, and a bottle gives around 3-4 full fuel tanks worth so around a hours racing. It only takes a minute to refuel, but on a downside the cars need constant maintenance and servicing to keep them in good condition, again like normal road cars.

The last on the family tree are petrol remote control cars which most people never really think of, as they are for huge fans and defiantly a big boys toy. At a length of around a meter, these cars are big. Running on actual unleaded petrol, they are actually cheaper to run than nitro cars but do still need attention to maintenance and servicing. Not the kind of remote control car you will find in the high street stores, but mainly from specialized retails.

Things you Need to Know on Hybrid Cars

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle) — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 22:30:50 PDT

Global warming poses a major issue in the US today, and there seems to be incessant and heated discussions about this matter in every corner of the world. Cars have been the number one contributors of air pollution hence you can find different types of alternatives that vehicle manufacturers offer to make these cars a little environment-friendly. As we all know, cars need to burn fuel to be able to burn and once this happens, cars can be the number one source of carbon dioxide emissions which can be harmful to the air we breathe. Over time, the cumulative effects of global warming can include drastic increases in Earth temperatures, melting of the polar ice caps, and the severe weather incidents that result to property destructions and losses of human life.

For vehicle owners who want to help in curbing this environmental crisis, there are actually different practices you can observe. But if you have the money, then you can settle for the hybrid vehicles today. This type of vehicle is the latest buzz in the automotive industry today and is considered as an Earth-friendly invention. By capturing kinetic energy that would otherwise be lost during the vehicle braking process, and using this energy to charge the vehicle battery, hybrid vehicles reduce the total amount of gasoline the car, truck, or SUV must burn to generate motion. Therefore, this type of technology results in significant fuel savings for the consumer. In many hybrid vehicle models, the gasoline-driven engine completely shuts down during stops, resulting in heightened vehicle fuel economy.

Since hybrid vehicles are the most precious vehicles on the road today, there are some facts that you need to know so you can as well familiarize yourself with this great vehicle innovation.

*Hybrid cars like the Toyota Prius produce 90% less pollutants than comparable non-hybrid cars. By putting less harmful chemicals in the environment, the harmful effects of pollution can be halted or even reversed.

*The United States government supports hybrid car ownership by allowing a tax write off. In 2005, this rebate may be as high as $5000!

*While it is true that hybrid cars do have expensive parts, they also have warranties that provide free replacement of the most expensive parts for many years.

*Hybrid cars show much lower depreciation rates than standard gasoline cars. They are now and will continue to be in extremely high demand, so hybrid cars keep their values very well, making a hybrid car a sound investment.

*Though hybrid cars have not been on the US market for very long, they have been sold in Japan since 1997. Some consumers worry that hybrid cars may not last as long as other cars, but it is not abnormal for a hybrid car to run like new when it has 250,000 miles on it. The best part - hybrid cars don't require any more maintenance than gasoline cars.

*Hybrid cars aren't a fad. Nearly every major automobile manufacturer has announced either the launch of a hybrid car or plans for a launch. A large part of this is due to the CAFE (Corporate Average Fuel Economy) regulation, by which an automaker must maintain a minimum mileage of 27.5mpg across its product line. By investing in hybrid technology, they can offer faster, larger engines in the rest of their line.

*You don't have to be an environmentalist to love hybrid cars. Consider the following: ACME Construction has a fleet of 10 work trucks that together drive 2500 miles a week, and guzzle $308 of gas a week. A new hybrid truck offered by a major manufacturer can save ACME Construction nearly $7000 per year, in gasoline costs alone. When factoring in lower depreciation and tax incentives, this number skyrockets. Capitalists can love hybrids too.

Luxurious Features in Inexpensive Cars

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle) — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 06:46:51 PDT

The automotive industry has always been a competitive world. The plethora of different types of vehicles has made the competition even tighter. Vehicle manufacturers continually outshine the other cars through the installation of high tech and extraordinary car devices. This trend is likely to go on and on as the younger generation looks for more and more technologically advanced features to complement their lifestyles and the owners’ needs.

In the past though, to make a car look good and perform better, car owners need to buy aftermarket parts or turn over their car to mechanics or aftermarket parts installers. Currently however, due to the competition in the auto industry, some very advanced features are already being made available on non-luxury cars.

Some of these features that one would find only on a high-end cars and vehicles not so long ago are heated cup holders and air conditioned glove compartments. These advances are made in the past and made available for luxury performance cars, but more recently, as the production costs for such features are cut down, car makers integrates these features on non-luxury cars. The reason for the integration of advanced features on cars is the fact that more often than not, vehicle manufacturers are targeting the younger generation of car buyers. And since the younger generation grew up to a technology driven world, it is only logical that the car they drive should also be inclined towards computers and technology.

One cool feature that you may find on non-luxury vehicles these days is the use of digital cameras to help drivers easily and effortlessly park their vehicles. This is a good way to keep a car, its passengers, and pedestrians safe when the vehicle backing up. Another cool feature that has been made available for modestly priced vehicles is the voice activated navigation system. This futuristic feature seems to be destined only for luxury cars but the reduction in cost of production makes it possible to be integrated on lower end vehicles.

For those who want to be always connected to the wired world, vehicle manufacturers are now producing cars with bluetooth capability to offer quick and instant connectivity. Aside from having Bluetooth capability which enables the driver to talk hands free on the phone, low-end cars are also equipped with auxiliary jacks for portable music players like the iPod and the Zune. High-end car audios are also fast becoming a standard even on non-luxury models. Some cars are even priced below the luxury level but offer more or less the same luxurious features that are once employed only by luxury cars. Advent in technology has made this possible, and it seems that the trend will continue in the future as more and more technologically advanced gadgets are developed and needs to be integrated into one’s car. There would come a time that those features that we see now exclusively on luxury cars, those high performance aftermarket components like brake parts from EBC Active Brakes Direct will also be present on the more common cars.

Now, you can definitely say that even those who own affordable vehicles can truly enjoy what it feels to have all the nifty gadgets around. You don’t need to own vehicles with million dollar price tags. And this is all thanks to the recent advancement in technology and the constant pursuit of vehicle manufacturers of providing its customers better vehicle choices. With all these nifty gadgets, you can now just sit around and parade your vehicle all over town. Aside from making your ride more convenient, these devices also makes your everyday drive safer and free from any road mishap.

How to Choose your Dream Car

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle) — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 06:27:04 PDT

There are so many questions popping in your head when one is looking for a car. With so many brands and makers it is really difficult to choose from. We are not even sure if the car will be best suited for our needs. It is always recommended to seek the help of experts when you are in the lookout for the right car for you. But the very first thing you need to remember is never to be impulsive buyer. There are a handful of things you have to consider when buying a car. Here is a step-by-step approach before you delve into a huge investment.

The first and foremost thing before buying a car is know what kind of a car you are looking for. Like is it to carry your family around or is it for you to speed down the roads. Are you looking for just basic car features are you love to exhibit luxury? Also calculate your requirements if it is for traveling in urban areas or for long journeys.

It would not be right if you buy a hi-speed car for as little as 20 kms journey. It would also not be suitable to buy a big car where small car could easily serve the purpose.

Some of the basic questions to be asked are:

1) What car is best suited for you?
Do you want to feel the fresh interiors of a new car or want an economical old car? New cars owners’ buyers can choose the optional features like transmission, interior décor, the variant, the color of the car and accessories. Old car buyers have no such choice and any accessory will have to be purchased from the open market. The advantage is that you can get a sedan for a compact car price or you can get a SUV for a sedan price.
With a used car you can get accustomed to being behind the wheel and negotiating the traffic.

2) A petrol or diesel car?
Choosing whether the car should run on petrol or diesel is one of the toughest choices. The difference is in fuel injector. While a petrol car is costlier and emission is low and so is mileage. Diesel is cheaper, but emission is high. Re-affirm your priorities to select the fuel for your car.

3) Suits your budget?
Allocating a budget for the car, will be the deciding factor. The compact cars, hatchbacks and wagons are at the lower end while Sedans, SUV’s are in the middle and luxurious makes are at the top. Deciding on the budget will also help zero in on the automaker.

4) Additional costs involved
Calculate the overhead costs involved apart the dealer price. Your list of accessories should not inflate the budget. Further, the other costs involved are: taxes and duties, registration charges, RTO clearance, pollution control certificate and other papers. This will be a few thousand rupees more than the actual cost of the car. Calculate it before deciding n the budget.

5) Choosing right dealer.
Choosing the right dealer will help you get the best deal for the best price. Most reputed dealers ensure customer certification. Dealers also offer you special warranty. Be careful about being conned into buying a second hand car as new. Some of these second hand cars sellers could be selling stolen cars which could make you fall in trouble

6) Test drive
Go for a test drive before you settle for a make and variant. This will give you a feel of the car interiors and performance. If satisfied clinch a deal, if not tell the dealer that you would like another test ride before taking a decision.

7) Close the deal and sign the papers
Signing the papers will be the last step in owning a car. Get all the papers in order. Get an insurance cover. Most dealers help in getting insurance cover for the new car. Drive out a new car from the showroom. Those buying used cars can take home a bigger car for smaller price.

Best Fictional Cars of All Time

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle) — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 06:14:24 PDT

Due to the popularity of vehicles, mass media today has also been used as a form of advertising. Today, vehicles are used in every corner of the media industry including in novels, songs, and television shows and of course, in movies. As compared to the famous rockmobile of the famous cartoon The Flintstones, the cars featured in movies today are equipped with all the nifty and high tech gadgets and devices to bring more life to the cars. Little did the moviegoers know that some of these cars are just fictional. Meaning, these cars do not exist in the real world. Because of the rise of cars in movies, many other movie producers decide to include cars in their movies. Some of these cars are just the product of one’s imagination. Though they are not real, many were still able to appreciate these cars. This only goes to show that cars are a big part of the human’s life.

Here is a list of the most famous cars in featured in different movies. Cars in these movies and other forms of media are human-like as some of them can talk and do things like humans. Also, these cars can showcase extraordinary power and one-of-kind performance. These are just some of the reasons why these cars have made a great impact to the lives of many and they still remain unforgettable as time passes.

Batmobile

In both the Batman television shows and movies, the superhero-on-the-go often hopped into a sleek, customized vehicle that provided protection for his Bruce Wayne alter ego. This very special car is endowed with heavy-duty armor plating and a high-end performance engine. As time passes, the evolution of the Batman series also shows an increasing innovation in terms of the Batmobile’s gadgets. To reach increased speeds, the Batmobile sometimes offered rocket boosts, while additional weapons and a computerized assistance helped to keep villains at a distance.

KITT

The talking car that aided David Hasselhoff's character, Michael Knight, navigate through a sea of enemies and bad guys was a Pontiac Trans Am. The television series focused on a high-tech approach to entertain the audience. Numerous fans watched the show just to see what KITT would do or say next. The popularity of the show even helped to boost Pontiac car sales as the verbal wonder could drive without a passenger and even displayed its own set of entertaining stunts.

Christine

Stephen King has produced numerous novels that have become popular movies; the same is true with the 1958 Plymouth Fury that seemed to have a mind of its own. Christine was the name given to the car that appeared in the horror novel (with the same name) published in 1983. Driven by supernatural forces, the antique auto created havoc in both the novel and the movie.

Herbie

Several Disney movies and cartoons have focused on Herbie the Lovebug, which was a Volkswagon Beetle that made its first appearance in 1969. Just like Christine, the red, white, and blue striped car with a "53" on its side could also drive without assistance and had a reputation for acting on its own. Most of the time, the car was featured in some sort of racing competition. Though they are only intended to children, adults were also able to appreciate this movie.

General Lee

The television series and movie named the Dukes of Hazzard showed main characters, Bo and Luke Duke soaring through the air, causing mischief with their get-rich schemes. Their vehicle of choice was a colorful Dodge Charger that allowed the cousins to complete high jumps in almost every episode. The car is also known for its controversial Confederate flag decoration.

Safety Tips Applicable on Sports Cars

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle) — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 05:31:51 PDT

The rise of sports cars today is undeniable. The usual perks delivered by sports cars, which are the looks and performance are just some of the factors that potential buyers look for. But aside from these two, customers also prioritize the safety features offered in your desired sports car. There are actually two main types of safety features among sports cars that you need to consider. First is the functional safety and the inactive safety.

The first category in safety includes the car features needed to prevent road mishaps. This includes effectual brakes, responsive clutches and dependable suspension. Some of these functional safety features are listed below. You should also familiarize yourself with each feature so that you know what to look for when you think you have found the ideal sports car for your.

The very first safety feature you need to consider is the Electronic Stability Systems. This particular car safety feature has the capability to detect whenever the vehicle is out of control. It usually works with the car’s wheels through the use of the discriminatory braking to specific wheels. This kind of safety feature also includes the traction control and anti-lock brake system. This is a safety feature that is found mostly on luxury sports cars because it is so expensive.

The Anti-Lock Brake System or ABS on the other hand permits vehicles to immediately come to a stop but can still be easily maneuvered. Anti-lock brake systems are triggered by applying intense pressure so there is a need for you to familiarize this safety feature. The moderate pressure would never work. Another great safety feature is the Effective Traction Handling which assists vehicles particularly sports cars to maintain their grip on the road even while accelerating. This type of driving capability is mostly recommended for rear-wheels as it helps lessen back up and utilizes the use of power-assisted brakes to a rotating wheel.

On the other hand the other category of the car’s safety feature is the inactive safety. This kind of feature is the one that protects the driver and other vehicle occupants if the functional safety features are not working. This category includes the following features:

The first safety feature under this category is the adjustable headrests. Though it should be more aptly named head restraints since they prevent the head from snapping back and forth when there is a collision if they are adjusted properly. They should be adjusted according to the occupants' height to effectively deliver its intended function.

Another inactive safety feature found in most vehicles is the airbag. Automobiles that have airbags for all passengers and cover the front and sides are ideal and significant. This is a feature that has become more dominant in recent years.

When you take a vehicle for a test drive, remember to ascertain the distance of the airbag from you - the most reliable gap for optimum safety is 10 inches away from the airbag. Move the seat back to a relaxed position and check i to make certain there is approximately 10 inches between the airbag and yourself.

Seat belts while one of the oldest safety devices are also an important feature in car safety. Seat belts can assist in saving you and your family in case of automobile accidents. Make sure that the vehicle has adjustable shoulder harnesses so that the belt can be adjusted to fit to the passenger's height.

Now that you know all the safety features that a sport car must be equipped with, then you now know the things you need to look for in a sports car. If your desired car is not equipped with any of these safety features, then it is time to look for a new one.

50 Cent and his Precious Rolls Royce

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle) — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 01:34:41 PDT

50 Cent or Curtis Jackson in real life is a popular African American hip-hop artist. Once almost unknown outside his hometown of southside Jamaica, Queens, he signed a contract to Eminem’s record label Shady Records and Dr. Dre’s Aftermath Entertainment. The rapper, who was the first to sign to Shady Records, was scouted before knowing Eminem. Eminem first met 50 Cent with MTV News reporter Sway Calloway; Eminem apparently had not heard any of 50 Cent’s performances before seeing him in person. He appeared on the 8 Mile soundtrack with an accompanying song and video ("Wanksta") that immediately went into heavy rotation on BET, MTV, and radio stations across the country. In the opinion of many observers his continued success seems guaranteed by his large underground fanbase and the street credibility he has gained by appearing on almost every major mix tape sold in New York in the past few years.

His Car

In the world of hip-hop, cars maketh the star, and to date, 50 Cent is one of the most bankable rappers. But ’Fifty’ ain’t happy with what’s in his garage, and he has plans to turn the car world on its head, literally. 50 Cent is about to make his Rolls-Royce Phantom a drop-top, even before the company does the work for itself...

"I just want something everybody else doesn’t have," declares the megastar backstage at a one-off UK concert at Rockingham race track. He then unleashes a tidal wave of how and why he is going to butcher his Phantom. "I don’t care if it messes up the electrical system. The roof is gonna be gone. I want something more sporty. I’m not an old man. That’s why I wanna chop the roof off it. I’ll leave the TVs. They had TVs in the package I got. It’s fully loaded. I’ll leave everything that’s in there. I’ll just cut the roof off. Make it into a ’vertible."

The man to whom 50 will turn for this ultimate chop-top is Funkmaster Flex, New York car artiste to the rap stars. The Bronx-based customiser, 50 Cent’s motoring mentor and restorer of the singer’s ’65 Chevy Impala and ’84 Buick Regal has been trying to talk the megastar out of what some will regard as sacrilege.

"I don’t think is such a good idea and it’s going to end up costing him almost as much as the car," predicts the host of the ’Ride With Funkmaster Flex’ cult TV show. Rather than hack the roof off the Phantom, Flex thinks it would be better to try and buy a production example of the stunning 100EX convertible concept car when it goes on sale in 2007. An idea 50 is having none of.

"They won’t give me one," he tuts with the air of a petulant teenager. "Having me drive a Rolls-Royce is great for [promoting the company], but they don’t see eye to eye with the kid yet."

50 s flexing his considerable muscles. Less than three years since being drop-kicked to the top of the hip-hop parade with a plug from Eminem, 50 is enjoying the power of fame and spending a $100 million fortune which would run many a small country.

Fame and fortune has come at a price. In 2000, Curtis James Jackson III was shot outside his grandma’ New York house. Now there are more bullet wounds in his body than fingers on one of his blinged-up diamond-encrusted hands.

Specifications of Rolls Royce Phantom

Model year: 2005
Make: Rolls Royce
Model: Phantom
Style: RWD
Base Price: 328750$
Drive Type: Rear
Transmission Type: 6-Speed Automatic
Engine Type: V12
Horsepower (hp @ rpm): 453 @ 5350
Torque (ft-lbs @ rpm): 531 @ 3500
Performance:
0 - 30 (sec): 2.3
0 - 45 (sec): 4.1
0 - 60 (sec): 5.9
0 - 75 (sec): 8.8
1/4 Mile (sec @ mph): 14.3 @ 98
Top Speed: 150 mph

Distinctive Styling of 2008 Peugeot 407

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle) — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 00:34:04 PDT

Who could ever resist the newest offering of Peugeot—the 2008 Peugeot 407. Since it was introduced to the public, this car has showcased excellent styling and performance. The 2008 Peugeot 407 introduces a touch of style into a segment based around traditional yet conventional saloon and estates, designed with just volume and practicality in mind. Peugeot based the design of the 407 around a number of core motoring values identified from its customers: appearance and technology, driving enjoyment in both the Saloon and SW models, with the SW particularly ideal, due to its versatile for leisure pursuits, for both families and individuals or for business activities.

The 407 …a distinctive ‘stylish vehicle’ …

One of the main attractions of the 407 Saloon and SW is their feline appearance. The forward positioned and inclined front windscreen, bold rear design, large wheels, the 407 has all the personality that underlines the new design signature of Peugeot cars and has become an inspiration for the design of the front of all new models. Characterised by an ever more distinctive design at the front, with an air intake that fits perfectly both in terms of technical performance and its bold design, it provides the 407 with its overall dynamic image.

Its dynamic characteristics including exceptional road holding, is the result of a number of technical solutions and Peugeot’s expert fine tuning of the suspension, benefiting both ride and handling.

In 2008 … The new 407

Since its launch, the 407 has enjoyed a strong position within its segment due to its distinctive appearance that sets it apart from the other vehicles in the segment and is still contemporary with the 207 and 308 models.
It continues to excel in terms of road holding and offers a combination of active safety, driving enjoyment and comfort of the highest level.

In anticipation of the changing expectations of its customers, Peugeot will strengthen the appeal of the 407 even further this summer. The New 407 enhances the core aspects that are the key sources of enjoyment experienced by its users.

Subtle visual improvements updating a design that is just as dynamic and bold as before but now offers more in terms of elegance, robustness and high quality, both externally and internally. New enhanced comfort equipment increases the appeal of the different versions by offering even greater wellbeing to its occupants, in particular onboard temperature control and new telematics systems.

New equipment like front parking assistance enhances the car’s world-wide reputation for ease of driving and dynamic performance. It is available with a choice of four- and six-cylinder engines featuring cutting edge technology, particularly on the HDi Diesel versions, the most popular engine option in the 407.

These include an updated 2.0-litre HDi engine with a 6-speed manual gearbox which develops a power of 103 kW (140 bhp), an increase of 3 kW. It also benefits from a fuel consumption of 5.6 litres/100km and CO2 emissions reduced to 150 g/km. This engine, which complies with future Euro 5 emission standards, has been approved in accordance with this regulation.

This new specification testifies Peugeot’s ongoing commitment to achieve the best possible environmental performance on the new 407. For example, after the standard fitment of an additive-enhanced diesel particulate filter system (FAP) on all HDi Diesel powered 407s and following the introduction of the 1.6-litre HDi FAP engine (110 bhp), particularly well suited as a fleet vehicle thanks to its low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions (only 140 g/km for the Saloon and SW), a new 2.0-litre Bioflex engine operating on E85 fuel will be available for destinations where road tax incentives favours biofuels, with their environmental benefits.

Source: digiads.com

Cheap Car Insurance for Women

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle) — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 00:04:24 PDT

As time progresses, women now enjoy the rights and privileges that are originally enjoyed by men in the early years. Today, women are more independent in life’s everyday aspects. No more women repression hence women’s rights are further upheld in the society today. There are many things that you observe today that women are now able to do the things that men originally does like working, voting and the list goes on. And of course, you can now find many women drivers traversing the road. This is now a clear indication that women are no longer confined in the four corners of their households doing only household chores and they can now enjoy the world.

Since women now have jobs, they are no longer dependent to any men. The same thing goes to driving. Women are now more capable of driving themselves and they now own their very own cars. Most of the countries today are imposing laws that all cars need to be insured with car insurance before they are enjoyed on the road. And of course, women and men share this responsibility as a vehicle owner. Therefore, many women today are busy funding for the cheapest car insurance for women.

In the latest study conducted, results show that women are generally considered to be safer drivers compared to men drivers due to lower aggressiveness in driving. Thus, women will be offered with cheaper car insurance because of this reason. However, this offer might not be the cheapest offer yet, therefore, women can do more to get the lowest cost.

What a woman can do first is to shop around and compare rates between different insurance companies. She can always go to the companies herself to get the rates or take the easy way out by searching on the Internet. Some of them are offering cheaper policies for women. A woman can try to get more information from these companies as they might be giving out the best car policies that a woman need compared to others. Women who looking for cheap car insurance for women can also ask other women for their recommendations of women-friendly insurance companies.

Next, a woman can also try to take multiple policies with the same insurance company. A woman can try insuring her husband's car, her house and even her own medical coverage with the same company. As the respective company earns more profit from the woman as she takes up more than one policy, the woman will gain advantage to be able to negotiate for cheaper car insurance on the strength of having more than one policy with the same company. This will guarantee a better chance to get cheap car insurance for the woman.

Having a less attention-grabbing car will also help to get cheap car insurance for women. Attention-grabbing cars such as expensive sports cars mean that the car is more likely to attract thefts because of its high value in the market. The expensive cars also need higher costs to maintain and repair once they are worn out or damaged, not to mention having bad performance in terms of gas mileage. Getting a cheap and less flashy car will help women to save a lot in their insurance premiums.

Last but not least, women should also try their best to make their cars more protected. Even if they are driving less flashy cars, this does not guarantee that they will be free of theft and car damaging risks. Ensuring their cars to be in a safe state by fitting in security devices will help keep their cars more protected from any unlucky events. Insurance companies will consider giving these women cheaper car insurance plans if they have secured cars.

Surveillance Cameras, Perfect to Teen Drivers

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle) — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 00:03:26 PDT

My parents especially my mom are a little apprehensive when I first told them that I’m saving up to buy my very first car. They do not understand that with my car, I can now conveniently and easily reach my school and other desired destinations. But no matter how much I convince them, they are still afraid that I may put myself in great danger when driving. Hey, you guys are thinking way way ahead. I don’t even have my car…yet. Thankfully, I found this article and I let my mom read it to at least lessen her worries and fears. So if you are a teen driver, let your mom read this so you can escape her constant nagging about the dangers of teen reading. I hope you can also convince your parents like I did. (wink).

Here is the article and this could be useful to you:

Are you worrying too much about your teens and their driving? There are new surveillance cameras that'll give you an idea of your kids' driving habits and you can show them proof before they roll their eyes and deny everything.

Teen driving
Working mommies' romance with the surveillance cameras starts with nanny cams. They worry about their toddlers left in the care of somebody else. As the kids grow older, they rely on more sophisticated surveillance systems to track their family's activities at home.

With the toddlers now in their teens and already driving cars, mommies and daddies are becoming frantic. If you have given your teens the privilege of driving their own cars, then better take some measures to make sure they are following safe driving tips.

This concern is legit. More and more teens are involved in car accidents in a ratio of four to one driving adult. Costs for the car surveillance cameras may be steep but when it comes to the matter of your children's safety and discipline, $950 is trifling.

How do these work?
These cameras are small (like a 9 volt battery) and can be placed under the dashboard of the car. These gadgets record the speeds, sudden stops, and swerves, and sound an alarm when fast acceleration and over speeding are detected. The 10 seconds before the acceleration or speeding is also captured by the cameras.

All these information from car surveillance cameras can be downloaded to your PC. Of course, your son or daughter will know that there is a camera inside their cars. Warn them that they cannot remove or tamper with these if they want to drive their cars.

Helping your teens help themselves
Of course, teenagers can be hard nuts to crack. As parents, your guidance and supervision will help them through their turbulent years. Don't be pushovers and give in to their every whim.

To make your teens understand that driving is a serious matter, sign a drive safely contract with them. Show them you are serious and you are ready to take away their privileges if they renege.

You can form a teen-drive-watch with your friends who also have their own kids at the wheels. Request your friends to report your kids' driving habits. This will deter them from gunning down the highways because mom's and dad's spies are everywhere.

When is your son or daughter ready to drive
Before your child can have a car, give him responsibilities and gauge how he or she does these. A responsible teen can be trusted with a car. If he or she is ready, give a lecture on responsible driving. Try to embed these nuggets of wisdom that will someday save a life.

Getting a driver's license is not the end-all and be-all. Your teens should not be driving alone after he or she gets the license. They should be supervised and log 60 hours of driving with you on board.

While your teen is still getting used to driving, prohibit the use of cell phones and music inside the car. These are dangerous distractions.

So, before you give him the key to the car, secure surveillance cameras. Someday you will be glad you did because you'll be able to warn him or her of the dangers of reckless driving before it's too late.

Toyota EE86: Japanese’s Version of Sports Car

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle) — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 00:01:55 PDT

Not many people can avail of the sports cars offered in the industry today. Well for one, these sports cars come at a hefty price tag. Only those who are born with a silver spoon on the mouth can afford it. Those who belong to the middle and lower bracket in terms of economic status could not afford this kind of car. It would take time lots and lots of working years before they can enjoy these cars. Sports cars offer impeccable styling and power-packed performance. Those who have the luxury to buy this car can very well enjoy the adrenalin rush once you are behind the wheels of this car.

Perhaps the Ferrari is one of the most popular sports cars we have today. The performance and styling is what a Ferrari sports car offers. In Japan on the other hand, they also have their very own version of sports car. During the 1980s, the most popular sports car in Japan was the Toyota AE86. Popularly known as Hachi-Roku, which directly means eight-six in Japanese, this sports car was warmly received by Japanese car enthusiasts especially during its appearance on the Japanese manga and anime series, Initial D. This sports car was first introduced during 1983 and became famous for being the last small, rear wheel drive coupe.

The Toyota AE86 came in two different body styles, the Levin and the Trueno. They are actually identical but the only difference is their headlight’s shape. More difference between the two models however came in 1986, when Toyota changed the tail lights and hatchback styles as well. The cars produced before this change was commonly called "Zenki", which is Japanese for "early period". Toyota AE86 cars made with the new changes were called "Kouki", which unsurprisingly means "latter period" in Japanese.

The sports car was also very popular at car shows and was used in various racing sports, particularly circuit racing and rally driving. Even now, after it has been discontinued, the car remains popular in rally circles and club races. The car was particularly adept at cornering, especially when it was going downhill. As a result, this made it a very common car for mountain pass street races in Japan, known as hashiriyas. The sports car was light, quite powerful, easily modifiable and balanced very well. Keiichi Tsuchiya, the legendary racer in Japan known as Dori-Kin, or "drift king", had also used the car. In fact, with the Toyota AE86, Keiichi Tsuchiya popularized the sport of drifting. To this day it is still popular in drifting competitions because of its fantastic cornering and early association with the sport.

The Japanese manga and anime series, Initial D, also sparked a new interest in the car among automobile and drifting fans all over the world. The car remains so well received that it has been featured in the high-selling, realistic videogame racing series Gran Turismo. Because of its recent attention, the resale value of the car has increased.
The car was originally released in North America under the Corolla name, which stood for "crown of a flower" and came out in 3 different versions. It was also fairly popular in North America, as one version known as the GT-S stayed in production until 1991. The AE86 sports car was also released in Australia under the name Sprinter, but unfortunately, it did not sell so well because the stock engine was poor. However, many Australian car enthusiasts switched the engine and it has been stayed popular for rally and track racing due to its good handling.

Even though it has been over twenty years since its release, the legendary car is still highly regarded among car enthusiasts due to its wonderful handling and drifting abilities. It continues to gain fame years later since it has been featured in many different car shows, cartoons, games and television series. Since it was also the last of its kind and was used by the legendary drift king, Keiichi Tsuchiya, it looks like the Toyota AE86 is here to stay and drift for years to come.

Only Mercedes Benz can Come Up with an Excellent Car as Mercedes Benz CLS

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle) — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 00:01:01 PDT

The Mercedes Benz CLS, the first ever four-door coupe, has left all the vehicle enthusiasts in great awe as it was first unveiled in the market. This excellent vehicle is further improved through the major changes done though the 2009 CLS four-door coupe. With all its amazing features, it surely has stirred the interest of vehicle enthusiasts and owners alike.

Because of the excellent features the Mercedes Benz CLS is offering, it has been the constant talks in different site forums today. Their usual topic is whether the new AMG 6.2-liter naturally aspired V-8 engine is an innovation over the supercharged 5.4-liter that was an AMG staple - particularly, if the new model is slower or quicker off the mark.

At least for now, the new CLS63 AMG, we can say that the answer is both yes and no. The 6.2-liter V-8 releases 507 horsepower in the CLS which is easily surpasses the 469 hp in the old CLS55 AMG. On the other hand, torque has decreased from 516 pound-feet to 465 lb-ft. Actually, more torque means faster mid-range and off-the-line acceleration, while more power results in better top-end performance.

Just like the other information mentioned above, the Mercedes Benz CLS63 AMG is powered by V-8, which is known as the most powerful naturally aspirated production as well as the first engine developed completely by AMG. This powerful feature is particularly built almost completely from a high-strength silicon-aluminum alloy which contributes in making AMG racing success prompts high-power production.

As compared to the CLK car that was launched three years ago, the 2009 version of this car has now many alterations including the sleek new nose of the CLS complemented by a more dramatic two-bar grill. Originally, the CLS had a four-bar grill and to add a little flavor, they have crafted it with a two-bar grill. What else is fairly noticeable is the new CLS features a built-in arrow-shaped turn signal on its large outside mirror. In addition, the new dual five-spoke 18-inch wheels make the car appear even more striking. A new rear bumper with trapezoidal dual exhaust pipes and arrow-shaped LED tailings gives the car a unique and fresh new look.

Amazingly, the CLS63 romps to 60 mph from its initial point in a blistering 4.1 seconds which is a tenth quicker than the CLS55. And to guarantee that its braking capacity is comparable to its amazing and hair-raising speed, it comes equipped with new, giant vented and perforated disc brakes with all around feature such as 14-inch discs and six piston calipers up front and 13-inch discs with four piston calipers at the rear attached. The AMG suspension is a recalibrated version of Mercedes' Airmatic air-spring setup, which works in conjunction with the so-called Adaptive Damping System. It has driver selectable settings just like the system in the E-class, none of which are perfect.

Right now, here is a list of the excellent perks you will receive once you are driving this sleek car. Besides the fact that it teases the 7200-rpm redline, it really does go past 180 mph. Also, not to say that the old five-speeder was not good, its seven-speed automatic transmission is as smooth as a glass of fine aged wine from the cellar. The seven-speed AMG Speedshift automatic transmission can be shifted manually by either a conventional lever or by the Formula-1 style shift paddles on the back of the steering wheel - right for upshifts, left for down.

Other features included 19-inch alloy wheels, larger front discs, limited slip differential as well a leather and Alcantara-wrapped AMG sport steering wheel.

Music and Entertainment in your Car

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle) — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 00:00:01 PDT

Buying a new car even if your old vehicle is still working is a very impractical practice. Though it may not have all the excellent features like the ones present in newer vehicles today, it can still keep up with the use of all the nifty accessories offered in the market today. So what kind of accessory should you settle for? First, it would depend on your budget. There are many inexpensive accessories that still provide great looks and functionality to the vehicle. They not only deliver aesthetics but also provide a more exciting ride. Here are car accessories that can let you enjoy your driving moment. Ready your pen and paper and list down the helpful tips and hints.

For a less-tiring and exciting ride, vehicle owners opt to install the in-car audio system. With this system at your side, driving can give you so much pleasure. Now, throw away your century-old cassette players and settle for the more advanced CD players. A little more advanced than CD players are the MP3 players. This way, you don’t have to stack all the CDs in your car. This MP3 player can store huge amount of music that you can listen to while you’re on the run. There are different MP3 players available in the market today but many people try to do a bit of DIY and install an Apple ipod in the vehicle’s audio system.

So if you are planning to install any MP3 players, you need to your homework first and research on the products before attempting it yourself because you need to make sure that all the wirings are properly installed. However, for those who are already familiar with all the wiring connections, this job is just a piece of cake. Once you install the MP3 player for your precious vehicle, you can now get ready for the ultimate driving adventure with your car. Even in long travels, you won’t run out of song as this player can carry hundreds of music for you to enjoy.

But if you are on the look of the perfect sound system to install in your car, do not forget the old-fashioned radio or the modern radio since there are varied types of digital radio on the market that can make for a really great entertainment in your car. The great thing about digital radio is that it is very clear, and does not suffer from the kind of distortion that you get from many other types of radio output. Of course, this adds up to a certain expense, but if you really do like to have music on the move this could be a choice that is worthy of consideration.

So whatever your choice in music, be sure that you don't simply opt for the old-fashioned entertainment system, and do take a look at installing an MP3 player into your car, or if you are radio fan, a digital radio. You will probably be impressed by the quality of sound you get.

Also, if music is not enough to ease to boredom, then you can install TV monitors in your vehicle’s dash to let you enjoy your favorite tv shows while you are on your way to a long journey. This way, kids would not bother your driving once they throw tantrums. Along the travel, kids can just watch their favorite cartoon and presto, your kids can now show their proper behavior. So if you are finding ways of making your vehicle up-to-date, then having these accessories can give you another pride of vehicle ownership. Though these accessories may cost a little than expected, you just have to think that they are worth all the money.

Ferrari California

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle) — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 23:58:17 PDT

Just like the legendary phoenix, the Ferrari California will once again rise, but this time more beautiful than ever. One look at the 2-seat convertible is enough to tell you that this thing is destined to be a classic, just like the Ferrari California of yore. The car features a folding hard top, making it look as good with the top up as it does with the top down. And once inside, you're surrounded by high-grade leather and a dashboard layout that's unmistakably Ferrari.

A 4.3-liter V-8, located just aft of the front axle, powers the soon-to-be-released Prancing Horse. It comes mated to 7-speed double-clutch transaxle that allows you to choose gears manually or cruise in full automatic mode. With 460 bhp on tap, the California can prance to 60 mph in 4.0 seconds, according to Ferrari. There's a new multilink suspension system at the rear so the car's handling and ride quality should be exceptional. There's also the company's F-1 Trac traction-control system, also on the 599 GTB Fiorano, that caters to the sport-minded driver. Brembo brakes at all four corners ensure excellent stopping power.

"The Ferrari California is aimed at owners who desire a car that embodies everything the Prancing Horse represents in terms of sporty design and innovation, but also seek a car with greater versatility than ever," says Ferrari. The car will make its official debut at the Paris Auto Show in the fall. No word yet on the price or on-sale date.

Source:

http://www.roadandtrack.com/article.asp?section_id=12&article_id=6825

Maybach 62: Another Form of Luxury

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle) — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 23:57:25 PDT

Maybach is Mercedes-Benz's ultra-luxury brand intended to compete with Bentley and Rolls-Royce. The Maybach 62 (pronounced "MY-bock") is the top model -- an extended version of the 57 sedan -- and is among the most opulent and expensive cars on the planet. It has every conceivable luxury, plus some you wouldn't think of, such as clamps that hold the included Robbe & Berking solid-silver champagne flutes to the center rear console so their bubbly contents won't spill onto the velour carpeting.

All 2006 Maybach models now come with a standard parking-assist system that combines sonar proximity sensors with a rear-mounted video camera that shows the view from the trunk-lid handle on the vehicle’s dashboard display. A newly optional business package can turn the vehicle into an office on wheels and includes a wireless dual-port router that can connect to the Internet via a cell phone network. A built-in color printer with Bluetooth wireless connectivity is also available.

Unlike the shorter 57 model, which masquerades as a car that owners might actually drive -- though Maybach says hardly any owners ever do -- the extended 62 model is intended as a chauffeur's car. The backseat area is absolutely enormous, with nearly 17 inches more rear legroom than on the 57. As is the case with yachts, the numeric nomenclature refers to the cars' lengths -- 5.73 meters for the Maybach 57 and 6.16 meters for the Maybach 62.

An outrageously long list of standard amenities includes front massaging seats, power door closers, fully reclining rear seats with a refrigerator built into the center console, power side-window curtains and no less than 10 airbags. An even more outrageous list of options includes a $14,800 glass roof with an integrated solar-powered ventilation system and electro-luminescent technology that varies the opacity of the glass.

Did You Know ...
The Maybach name honors Wilhelm Maybach, who worked with Gottlieb Daimler in the late 19th century to build the first cars with internal combustion engines. Wilhelm's son Karl was an engineer who developed and put the Maybach brand name on 1,800 of the company's custom-built luxury cars from 1921 to 1941.

Is the Maybach 62 for You?
Buy this Vehicle if – You’re looking for a roomy, plush and exceedingly coddling ultra-luxury car in which to be driven; you want to own a car few others can or will.

Keep Looking if - You had to let the chauffer go for financial reasons; you prefer more elegant styling, in which case the Bentley Arnage RL and Rolls-Royce Phantom are worth considering; you care about fuel economy.

The Rise of Sports Cars

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle) — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 23:55:02 PDT

When we think of sports cars, the very first name that enters our mind is Ferrari. But today, they are not the only ones on the rise as more and more vehicle manufacturers are producing top quality sports cars which are sure to be enjoyed by vehicle enthusiasts. Here is a list of what is said to be the finest in their category.

2009 Nissan GT-R Spec V
According to reliable sources, the Spec V will be to the GT-R what the Porsche GT3 RS is to the 911. However, this car will be significantly lighter than the base car -- at least 220 lb. Extensive use of carbon fiber -- on the hood, rear wing, front spoiler and doors -- will help the GT-R weigh in at about 3600 lb. The interior may come standard with a rollcage or structural brace like the one in the original GT-R Concept, as well as carbon-fiber Recaro front seats.

There were reports that Nissan engineers contemplated deleting the air-conditioning unit from the package, but decided against it, keeping in mind that not everyone who buys this car will convert it into a racing machine. But this should be enough to tell you that the GT-R Spec V is a serious performance car, one mainly intended for the track. New lightweight 6-spoke wheels will help you distinguish it from the base GT-R.

2010 Saleen S5S Raptor
Unlike the S7, which was a barely-civilized race car, the new S5S Raptor is "primarily a street vehicle," according to Saleen, although it stresses that the Raptor's dynamic qualities "will not be compromised." Officials went on to say the Raptor "is designed to provide a truly American alternative to the European exotics."

Power will come from a mid-mounted 5.0-liter supercharged V-8 putting out 650 bhp at 6300 rpm and 630 lb.-ft. of torque at 4400 rpm. The engine is designed to run on E85; what's more, unlike today's flex-fuel cars, this one is apparently dedicated to ethanol: "By using ethanol fuel, the powertrain is able to run higher compression and yield approximately 5 percent more horsepower than our normal 5.0-liter supercharged engine."

A 6-speed manual transmission will come standard in the Raptor, with a paddle-shift sequential gearbox optional. The performance meter should be pegged: Saleen estimates 0-60 mph in 3.2 seconds, the quarter mile in 10.9 sec. and a top speed over 200 mph.

The Raptor's aluminum chassis and composite body panels happen to be very similar in size to Ferrari's F430. And although the new Saleen rides on a 106.3-in. wheelbase that's identical to the S7's, the Raptor is 13 in. shorter and 5 in. taller, the last dimension no doubt an attempt to make the new car more people-friendly.

Suspension is composed of double wishbones front and rear. The front brakes have 15.0-in. rotors with 6-piston calipers, while the rears are 13.0 in. with 2-piston calipers. Lots of rubber will keep this new Saleen glued to the road: 275/35R-20s up front and 315/35R-20s at the rear.

2012 Jaguar F-Type
In 2000 Jaguar unveiled an F-Type concept at that year's Detroit show to much acclaim. Its swoopy curves and retro machine-turned fascia drew a lot of admiration, but it was ditched in favor of more mainstream products.
Now, it seems that the F-Type might just be resurrected under Jaguar's new owners. Certainly the important players within Jaguar, from design to engineering to marketing, want it.But how? The simple (read: inexpensive) route is to chop down the XF's platform, making it into a narrower and shorter 2-seater, while still using the XK's aluminum suspension components to save weight.

Don't think a future F-Type will be simply a slimmer version of the XK. Instead, take the E-Type, morph it into the radical C-XF concept and XF production car and then develop those themes to become the F-Type. Jaguar could very easily end up with the coolest sports car of the 21st century.

Women as Polite Drivers

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle) — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 23:53:07 PDT

This is a post that most women should be proud of. This blog post merely talks about women in the age of 40 driving big engine vehicles as the most polite motorists. In contrasts, men in their 20s with cars having engines of less than 1,500cc, they are considered as the rudest on the road and terrorize other motorists.

A survey found nine out of 10 drivers of both sexes let other cars out of side roads and 62 per cent always thank others who give way for them. But 55 per cent admitted they shout or gesticulate and 53 per cent sound their horn if angry.

Middle-aged drivers were found to be the most well-mannered, followed by those in their 30s. Admiral car insurance, which did the survey, said: “Most motorists are polite and courteous most of the time but sometimes the stress of driving gets the better of them."

Sunglasses: Bane or Boon?

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle) — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 23:50:36 PDT

In today’s fashion, sunglasses are women accessories that are considered as a must-have. Because of its look, sunglasses can instantly add glamour to anyone who wears them. However, there is a report by the Daily Mail that says that about 12 million fashion-conscious women drivers are put in great risk through wearing sunglasses. The reason? Sunglasses limit the filed of vision on the road.

Also included in the report is that majority of Britain’s 14.4 million female motorists admit to putting style before safety. The Eyecare Trust charity also advised women to make safety their first priority with sunglasses for driving. More than eight out of ten women (82 per cent) surveyed failed to consider safety when choosing sunglasses for driving - equivalent to 11.8million female motorists. One in ten - 1.3million - drive in wide-armed glasses that severely restrict their peripheral vision. A further 7 per cent wear lenses that are so dark they are illegal for driving.

The researchers commissioned by insurer Sheilas’ Wheels also found that fewer than one in five (18 per cent) of women bought sunglasses specifically for driving while almost two-thirds (61 per cent) based their choice on appearance rather than practicality. More than half (57 per cent) want better labelling and more information in shops on which are the best styles for motorists to buy. According to the report, too many women drivers are unaware of the dangers of wide arms and dark lens tints may be the must-haves of the moment, but fashion- conscious women should put safety ahead of style when in control of a car.

The Eyecare Trust examined five styles of fashionable sunglasses and found that only two were suitable for driving. It revealed that the darkest shades fail to allow a minimum proscribed eight per cent of visible light through and are illegal. Pink tinted lenses can make it difficult to read road signs or spot hazards by distorting colors an dwide-armed glasses create blind spots. Aviator style glasses that curve around the eyes and have slim arms are recommended, along with anti-reflective lenses coloured in neutral brown or gray shades.

Chunky frames could pose a hazard when driving. Motorists need good all-round vision and a visual range of at least 120 degrees. The lens color, frame density, filter category and reflective coatings can all play a part in determining whether your sunglasses are roadworthy or not.”

The boom in convertible car sales is putting women at greater risk of skin cancer. Cancer Research UK has joined forces with Evecars.com, the website of Eve magazine, to urge drivers of convertibles to protect themselves and their passengers with suncream, a hat and sunglasses.

Latest figures show a 43 per cent rise in the most serious form of skin cancer, malignant melanoma, in the last decade. Sales of convertibles in the UK have trebled in that time - an increasing percentage bought by women - from 30,486 in 1996 to 100,626 in 2006. In Europe, only Germany sells more convertibles than Britain.

(Source: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/)

Top 10 Useful Tips in Buying a Car

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle) — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 23:46:12 PDT

Buying your very first car can be an extremely daunting task. But there is always an easy path to take when you are in this situation. The key to finding the sweetest and most perfect ride for you depends on your needs and what you can afford.

Here are some useful tips particularly designed to help you narrow your search or to make the process of finding the right car easier. If you follow these tips, then you’ll definitely end up with the right car for you.

1. Money: Make sure you know what is your budget. Never exceed the amount you can afford. For instance if your income is 50,000$ USD, you shouldn’t spend more than 25,000$ on the car because the car will may become a finical problem to you.

2. Personal need: Ask yourself what is the purpose of the car. Decide whether you want a 4 door sedan or a 6 people van. Look into what class and what kind car you want. If the purpose of the car is just purposely transportation, then don’t look into luxurious cars such as Benz or BMW. Or whether the car is for family purpose or personal love of car then you can decide whether you want a SUV or Sports Car.

3. Difference Brand: Once you decide what type of car you want. Look at different brands that has similar cars. For instance, if you are looking into the Lexus IS, also look into the Nissan G35, BMW 3 series, Acura TL, Cadillac CTS. You get the point. The reason why is because the price range from the same class can range from 30,000 to 45,000 which is a lot of money. Therefore, you should go test drive and find out exactly which car you want.

4. Buying it New or Used. After you decide what car you want. Start researching online on how much does the new car and the used car cost. Make you sure researching on many dealerships as well. You can save up to 1,000$ USD. Personally, I would like to buy a new car over a used car, but if there’s a good deal on used car, then you should reconsider and decide yourself.

5. Finance. Try to reduce the finance rate as low as possible to benefit you more. Try to look for the best plan for you and communicate with the dealer.

6. Communication with the Seller. Now this is the tricky part. Dealers usually jacked up the price of the individual car because they can make more money if they make sales. Therefore, to prevent spending extra money, you should do your homework by reaching how much your car is really worth and make offers to the dealers instead of them making offer to you.

7. Mileage. There no doubt that the price of gas will continue to go up. Therefore, it might be a good idea to consider how much you are willing to spend on gas. You want to find a good car with good mileage.

8. Insurance Cost. Different car also have different insurance rate even when they are in the same class. The insurance cost should definitely be a factor to consider when you are comparing with other cars.

9. Maintenance Cost. Maintenance Cost for cars also varies for different car. For instance Benz will charge over 100$ just for an oil change while Toyota may charge 25$.

10. Warranty. This should be the last thing you look at when you buy a car. Look at what the warranty covers and compare with it other car companies

Men vs. Women?

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle) — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 23:44:46 PDT

Author Jenny Dolan made an interesting article entitled “Men vs. Women.” This initially answers myths about the unending battle of the sexes.

Here is a part of an article that really caught my attention. Since it involves driving, I thought it would be a good subject to put in my blog.

On Men as better drivers

A wise man once said: “I don’t have an official opinion on that.” That man was Capt. Gary Uting, director of field services for the La Crosse Police Department.

Statistics: Out of the 10,183 traffic citations given in La Crosse during a 12-month period, men received 6,568 and women received 3,615.

Men might receive more citations because they drive more than women, Uting said. “In regards to me and my wife, I tend to do most of the driving when it’s the two of us,” he said. Most of the people I know, the man does the driving. I don’t know why.”

Men, especially young men, are considered riskier drivers. Car insurance for a 16-year-old male costs more than for a 16-year-old female, said Rita Sanger, insurance agent for American Family in La Crosse. Insurance rates go down once a driver is no longer considered a “young driver,” Sanger said. Women reach that age at 25, men at 30.
Still think women are dangerous behind the wheel?

According to the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety, men’s fatal crash rates per mile are about 1.8 times those of women. Men are more likely than women to be in single-vehicle crashes. Men are less likely to use seat belts and more likely to have been drinking prior to their crashes. They’re also more likely than women to have suspended licenses or previous convictions.

The Newest Infotainment Vehicle

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle) — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 23:43:18 PDT

Just imagine yourself cruising with your latest car but your enjoyment is not fulfilled as your vehicle is not equipped with any entertainment system like CD players. Though the market today offers different car entertainment systems, it would still however be wonderful if a vehicle already comes with different entertainment features.

Since long travels prove to be tiring and stressful, vehicle manufacturers have found ways to lessen the stress brought by driving. As witnessed in all vehicles today, they are already installed with all the exciting gadgets that could lighten your spirit when driving.

Just recently, XM has unveiled its latest “Infotainment Vehicle,” the 2008 Infiniti QX56. It was first introduced at the North American International Auto Show. This vehicle boasts of a next-generation, full-theater color touch-screen display, built-in electronic programming guide, streaming stock and sports tickers, dynamic information technology and a lot more.

To give you an idea of this cool vehicle, here is a breakdown of all its exciting features.

Touchscreen LucidTouch-Profile Feb-08 User Interface
XM will show off a brand-new touch-screen interface, with a full-color display - including album art - as well as channel and sports team logos and a multi-function display for viewing multiple XM channels at once.

Electronic Programming Guide
A real-time, interactive programming guide that shows upcoming special programs. The driver can request a reminder for a program of interest and later be alerted if they are in the vehicle the next time the shows they selected are broadcast.

Pause/Replay
The ability to pause and replay multiple channels of XM programming - simultaneously.

XM NavTraffic
See current traffic conditions, such as travel speeds on major roads, accident locations, and road closures, updated in real-time on the navigation screen.

XM Sports and XM Stocks
Streams your team's game times and scores and/or your updates to your stock portfolio directly to your vehicle as updates happen, and without interrupting your XM Radio Siriusly-Speaking May-07 listening.

VoiceCommand

Sophisticated voice control, developed by VoiceBox Technologies, for operating the radio, along with weather, traffic, stock quotes, and sports scores. (Watch a video of this technology here.)

XM NavInfo
Dynamic data service that utilizes the XM satellite pipeline to deliver point-of-interest data to the vehicle, such as nearby open parking space locations, local fuel prices, and flight information. XM NavInfo then relies on the vehicle's GPS to lead you there.

The infotainment vehicle is designed to illustrate how XM's next-generation technology can be implemented by its OEM partners. It doesn't necessarily mean these items will go to market, but it shows XM's capabilities.

Notably absent from this year's infotainment vehicle (at least from what we know) is XM's Satellite Video. It also looks like the dedicated XM ParkingLink service has been rolled into the wider XM NavInfo service offering.

2008 Jaguar S Type

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle) — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 23:39:47 PDT

From its debut in the year 2000, and up to the present time, the Jaguar S Type still garner huge support. The strong sales are a great indication of its victory in the auto market. The base price for this luxury car goes around $48,000. With its price and its recorded sales, you can only imagine how many are willing to invest in this vehicle. I think this vehicle is definitely worth every dime. But despite the success this vehicle enjoys, sources confirmed that Jaguar will put an end to its production. The reason for this move is still unclear. Though there are speculations that Jaguar is coming up of a new style in 2009.. Maybe even better and bolder.. Well, it is for us to find out.

For those who still do not know what a Jaguar S Type is, this is a four door sedan. And since it is engineered by Jaguar, all the imminent features and characteristics of a Jaguar are present. The inside is completely decked out with a leather upholstery, walnut accents, and a navigation system that would help you when driving in unfamiliar road. And for your sheer driving entertainment, it is also installed with a six CD disk changer.

This is actually one of the cars that I wish to own. Its elegance and style is a real catch. However, because of my meager budget, I just have to drool at this car.. for now.. who knows in the years to come…hehe.. You might even see me driving my very own Jaguar S Type.

Hybrid Cars, Anyone?

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle) — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 23:39:02 PDT

I am not a freak when it comes to too technical terms so I don’t know how to fully describe the works of a hybrid vehicle and how this vehicle can affect humanity. Simply put, a hybrid vehicle is the one that employs two or more specific power sources in order to make the vehicle run. Why do you think this vehicle is so popular today? Here is a plain and simple answer. Hybrid vehicles are no ordinary vehicles. They produce less toxic emissions and are more fuel efficient. With all the talks about global warming and its disastrous effects, more and more sectors, including the automotive industry, are finding ways to at least lessen the effects of this environmental crisis. Since studies conducted reveal the vehicles are one of the major contributors of air pollution, vehicle manufacturers, find ways to design a more environment-friendly vehicle. And this is now the birth of hybrid cars.

Once this type of vehicle is not running, the gasoline or the diesel engine will shut down in order to allow battery power to take over. Cars that run on batteries are quiet and do not emit the noxious emissions that gasoline or diesel powered cars do. And when this vehicle runs, both the electric and gas powered sources are tapped.

Hybrid vehicles are also responsible for saving precious fossil fuels that can be put to better use elsewhere. Although a hybrid vehicle is not going to go from zero to sixty in less than ten seconds, a hybrid vehicle will help ensure that your children have clean air to breathe.

The Toyota Prius was the first mass produced gas/electric hybrid in 1997 where it went on sale in Japan. The Prius became available to the United States in 2000. Easily, the Prius has become one of the most popular hybrid vehicles in the world. The Toyota Prius was the first mass produced gas/electric hybrid in 1997 where it went on sale in Japan. The Prius became available to the United States in 2000. Easily, the Prius has become one of the most popular hybrid vehicles in the world.

Ford Focus on American Idol

noreply@blogger.com (Noelle) — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 23:37:26 PDT

I have never been a huge fan of American Idol, but this time it is the other side of the coin. Too bad that Syesha Mercado got booted out. I am actually rooting for either David Cook or Syesha. But since this talented girl is out of the list, then my whole support only lies on David Cook. Like the rest of America, I watched the final night of American Idol. And I must say that both Davids perform an awesome performance. But no one, and I mean no one, could ever top my David Cook. Hehe..

And my long hours of waiting finally paid off as the winner for this season’s American Idol was announced. Yay! David Cook won! My rockstar David! Cook earned 15 million votes lead over the other David (Archuleta). Well, so much for my blabbering now.. Let’s now get down to business.

What does American Idol have anything to do with my blog about cars? Well its fairly simple.. This year, the newest addition to the Ford family, the 2009 Ford Focus Coupe debuted in the hottest television show on—the American Idol. So now, can you see the connection? American Idol and Ford Focus.

The newest Ford Focus, as announced to be part of the American Idol Ford Video. With the number of loyal viewers of the AI, you can expect that this car will a big, really big exposure. All I can say that Ford has come up with a genius marketing strategy.

If I am an interested buyer, what would attract me to buying this car? For one, the new Ford Focus has a sportier look. The lower front fascia incorporates a larger open area that bares a strong resemblance to the acclaimed design of the new global Ford Fiesta subcompact. The fog lamps -- now standard -- are better integrated into the overall design of the front fascia, and its signature two-bar chrome front grille and chrome accents around the headlamps have been darkened for added differentiation.

Also, it can stand out from the rest of the cars on the road, with the high-end Focus SES that will feature a standard high-mounted spoiler that is incorporated into the design of the roof. The high-mounted design contributes to Focus' overall muscular stance. A decklid spoiler will remain part of the Focus SE exterior design. New premium-painted Dark Chrome 17-inch aluminum wheels, also standard on SES, complete the coupe's redesigned exterior.

Wait till you hear about its performance. The 2009 Ford SES coupe features more horsepower and a throatier sound. The SES coupe with a four-speed automatic transmission will have a new 4.2 final drive ratio to deliver quicker off-the-line acceleration for a faster 0-60 mph time. A new option for 2009 is electronic stability control (ESC), which uses sophisticated sensors and the anti-lock braking system to help correct skids that can lead to accidents.

Aside from power and appeal, there are still other factors that this vehicle can boast of. The 2009 Focus Coupe is equipped with a 2.0-liter, Duratec 20 dual-overhead-cam (DOHC), inline 4-cylinder engine that delivers 143 horsepower when mated to a five-speed manual transmission and 140 horsepower when paired with a four-speed automatic transmission.Also available is a super-clean, 130-horsepower Duratec 20E engine that qualifies Focus as a Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (PZEV). The 20E's tailpipe emissions are cleaner than some hybrid gas-electric vehicles'. The Duratec 20 and 20E in Focus Coupe are mated to a five-speed manual transmission and achieve EPA-estimated fuel economy of 35 mpg.

Also setting the Focus coupe apart from other small cars is Ford's industry-exclusive SYNC technology, which will be standard equipment on the SES series and optional on the SE. SYNC is a fully integrated in-vehicle, voice-activated communications and entertainment system for customers to use their Bluetooth cell phones and digital media players.