Buy a Car
Step one is understanding the categories
The basics involved in buying a new car are straightforward an can be applied to every conceivable vehicle. However, given that there are several different basic categories, it helps if you know some of the idiosyncrasies that need to be factored into your purchasing decision. Carguide's Best Buy Awards since 1995 may help you narrow the filed.
Economy Cars
As the name implies, this category is comprised of cars that are both economical to purchase and to operate. If there is a drawback with this class of car it is size. On the highway their diminutive dimensions make them susceptible to cross winds and the small displacement engines tend to be on the sluggish side. That said, they do make ideal city cars or second cars. Generally speaking the only option required, if not standard equipment, is power steering.
Family Sedans (Compact, Family and Luxury)
A family sedan can be a car from any one of several different categories. While their basic design (i.e. four doors) is the common theme, they are a diversified bunch ranging from low end compact sedans, through performance sedans right up to luxury sedans, the primary differences being price and performance. The mark of a good family sedan is the back seat. It should be capable of accomodating three adults in relative comfort. If you decide to go for one of the small cars in this category, pay special attention to this aspect.
The odd ones out in the category are the performance sedans because they solve an age-old dilemma; you want a sports car but your situation dictates a family sedan. Providing plenty of horsepower, a sporty suspension and improved handling characteristics allows the owner to fulfill the family obligation without sacrificing the joy of driving a capable car.
Station Wagons
Station wagons also fit into the family category, but offer much more in the way of versatility. A key area to pay attention to in a wagon is the floor space between the rear shock towers. A large intrusion into this space will limit the type of cargo you can carry. Also make sure the tailgate is cut to bumper level. This makes loading large bulky items a lot easier. The last area again has to do with versatility. The best rear seat configuration is a 50/50 or 60/40 split folding design. By folding just one half down you can accommodate longer items without sacrificing the entire rear seat.
Coupes
While luxury or performance coupes are not considered family cars, much of the purchasing logic can be used. The only thing to watch for in the convertible variety is the amount of cowl shake (body flex). It can upset the handling characteristics, especially on washboard type pavement. The other consideration is whether the top is lined or not. If not, the car can become decidedly uncomfortable to drive in winter. The smart optional equipment for these cars are: air conditioning, anti-lock brakes and traction control (if available), cruise control, power locks, windows and mirrors. All of these are convenience or safety related item that will enhance driving pleasure as well as promoting good resale value.
Minivans
Since their introduction in 1984, these vehicles have become one of the most popular on the market today. They offer a variety of seating/cargo configurations, meaning they can easily be tailored to your specific need. When comparing different models check to see how much luggage space is available with all the seats installed. If it is insufficient for your needs you will have to upgrade to the extended version or look at a roof rack option. Try removing some of the seats. The advertising always says it's easy...but. If the two seater bench is heavy and requires two people to remove it, you may want to opt for the lighter captain style seats. The desirable option list for these vehicles is the same as the list for family sedans. The only option that should be avoided, unless absolutely necessary, is dual air conditioning. This feature places a lot of extra stress on the system and if it requires repair outside of the warranty period, will be extremely costly.
Pickups
Pickups are offered in every conceivable configuration, ranging from the compact variety all the way to a full-sized one ton unit. There are two important considerations when it comes to purchasing a pickup. First, do you need an extended cab? The additional storage space is great but on some models, especially compact pickups, it will limit the box length. The box size should also be checked. Do the wheel wells intrude on the box width? Can you place a 4 x 8 sheet on the floor? The second important factor is, because of the myriad versions, is a knowledgeable sales person. This is particularly true when it comes to sorting out the options on full-sized trucks. There are hundreds of different ways of equipping the pickup. The range runs from payload capacity right through to the axle ratio. Finding the right balance takes a lot of skill and product knowledge.
Sport/Utility
These vehicles offer a wonderful alternative to either a station wagon or a minivan - the availability of 4-wheel drive in a versatile vehicle being the big attraction. When comparing the different models, note the location of the spare tire and whether or not it is a full-sized tire. Some manufacturers place the spare in the vehicle, which uses up a lot of the cargo capacity. The ideal solution is to have it mounted behind the tailgate. If any off-roading is in your plans always upgrade the tires to the all-terrain variety. These not only give you better traction, but will help prevent a flat. Never go with running boards, these things severely hamper the off-road ability of any sport/utility vehicle. If some serious off-roading is what you are looking at, always equip the vehicle with brush bars and a winch and never venture off into the back of beyond without some help. Also, make sure that the vehicle has some form of limited-slip rear differential. Not all sport/utility vehicles have a "shift on the fly" capability. Some require you to get out and manually "lock" the front hubs when you want to shift into 4WD.
Sports Cars
Two types of vehicles make up this category: sport cars and sporty cars. While the difference may seem small there can be a huge difference when it comes time to insure the vehicle. A sports car tends to not only look great but have the performance to match. A sporty car may have the looks but typically offers mild performance. It is therefore important to get a quote on the cost of insurance before you start shopping. In many cases the cost will be prohibitive.
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