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 CarsAs 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 WagonsStation 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. CoupesWhile 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. MinivansSince 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. PickupsPickups 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/UtilityThese 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 CarsTwo 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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