Bear with me as I step back in time to formulate what I believe are three terrific American built performance cars: the Ford Mustang, the Dodge Challenger, and the Chevrolet Camaro. Currently, only the Mustang is in production with the Challenger coming back by 2009. GM hasn’t committed to building the Camaro just yet, but the company is likely to make a decision in favor of the car and its sibling, the Pontiac Firebird, by this summer. So, what is it about American performance cars that set them apart from the rest? In one word: muscle. Read on as I compare and contrast these three vehicles and share with you my feeble attempts to explain the culture behind the cars.So, you think I forgot the Chevy Corvette and Dodge Viper when talking about performance cars? No, I did not. Both models are performance cars as well as race cars. On the other hand the Mustang, Challenger, and Camaro are mass produced performance cars with muscle. There is a difference in the way a typical race car handles, rides, and performs vs. a muscle car. Typically, a muscle car was a coupe version of some of the larger cars that were pervasive on U.S. highways in the 1960s and 1970s. The Mustang and Camaro, however, were designed separately [although they both heavily borrowed parts from other models] and these “pony” cars were a category all to themselves. For comparison’s sake, they join the Dodge Challenger, a performance version of Mopar cars of its time. All three were compared by critics of that time and all three will once again be compared in a few years when production has been ramped up.<b>Ford Mustang</b> -– Step back in time with me to April 1964 to an era when America was heavily involved in the space race, Lyndon Johnson was president, and General Motors ruled autodom. Ford, for its part, had been nipping at GM’s heels for years, but the failed Edsels of the late 1950s had cost the company dearly. Still, it was the time of the New York World’s Fair and Ford used the fair and television technology to promote its newest offering, the Mustang. A 2+2 coupe borrowing parts from the Fairlane and Falcon, the 1964 ˝ model was the first one sold and is widely credited with being the best introduction of a new vehicle ever. With a V6 engine standard and V8 optional, the all new Mustang quickly broke sales records and has been a hot seller ever since. Indeed, with the introduction of the “retro” look Mustang in 2005, the car once again has spawned interest in the muscle car segment as both DaimlerChrysler and General Motors craft competing models of their own.<b>Dodge Challenger</b> -– After the success of earlier muscle cars including the Dodge Charger and Plymouth ‘Cuda, the Dodge Challenger was launched as a 1970 model. The car borrowed heavily from the ‘Cuda although the sheet metal was somewhat different and the wheelbase was stretched by a couple of inches. Because the muscle car era was in decline at the time of its introduction, the Challenger lasted only five model years before it was cancelled. The concept Challenger currently on display at many auto shows is based on the 1970 design and is the talk of message boards and blogs across the nation. Look for Hemi powered engines as being favored by many owners; the car is likely to share some technology with the current Magnum wagon and Charger sedan.<b>Chevrolet Camaro</b> — GM was asleep at the wheel when the Mustang came out. It took nearly three years before the company could respond and when it did the Camaro and Pontiac Firebird were the result. Although both cars sold well over the years, neither one could match the Mustang’s sales levels and by the time the last cars were sold in 2002, production dropped to a trickle. Still, the end of the Camaro after 35 years has stirred renewed interest in the name and thanks to the retro Mustang, the entire muscle car category is growing once again. Look for a 2010 Camaro to be the first Camaro since 2002; a ragtop version is also being considered.So, just who can be expected to purchase a muscle car these days? People just like me: middle aged men who grew up with the original models. In addition, a whole new generation of younger drivers tired of the “me too” look of so many of the compact cars out there. Muscle cars of today are so much different from earlier era cars as they incorporate the look of the originals while harnessing today’s technology. Thus, fuel savings will be decent without sacrificing performance: a true win-win situation.No, I cannot wait to see a Mustang, Challenger, and Camaro lined up at a traffic light waiting for the light to turn green. A new muscle car era is upon us and for that I am very excited.cars trucks
Autos
As a single young woman, I can safely say that buying my first car was quite a scary and daunting experience. Unfortunately even in the 21st century, women are treated completely differently to men when it comes to purchasing a car. Sadly, I did end up being cheated by the car dealers I chose to buy my car from and ended up out of pocket as a result.
What I have learnt from the experience, and from talking to other women who have been in similar situations, is that knowledge is key. Before entering the scary world of car dealer showrooms make sure you know all that you can about what to look for when buying a car. Have a plan in place before you get there so that you don’t end up being taken down a path that won’t benefit you in the long run.
The first thing to do is not to look vulnerable. Dress in a business-like fashion and hold yourself confidently. A woman who looks uncomfortable and unsure whilst wearing girly clothes is not going to be given the right kind of respect from the car dealer. Make sure you have a list of questions ready and when new ones arise, ask them straight away. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, remember that the ball is in your court and that you don’t have to buy anything if you don’t want to.
If you have found a car that you like ask to see the service history (if it is second hand) so that you can identify any potential issues. Make sure you double check that the mileage makes sense for the year of the car, and that the vehicle hasn’t been involved in any accidents. Cleverly repaired accident damage may be unnoticeable, but if you ever had an accident yourself these repairs would crumple a lot easier this time, putting your safety in jeopardy.
Ask the car dealer for a test drive and try to persuade him to let you try out a number of environments. After all, it is you that has to drive the car for the next few years, so don’t be pressured into signing any cheques too soon. Stay confident and you should be treated how you deserve.
Have you always bought your vehicles brand new? If so, this probably means that you have bought new ones you could afford. Have you ever wanted some vehicle that seemed way out of your budget? Perhaps a luxury car known for it’s performance, quality, and details like the Rolls Royce. Everyone knows that a Rolls Royce cost a pretty penny for a beautiful car that will take ownership of every road you travel down. A new one may be too steep for you, but why not get out of your box and be a little daring? Why not consider a used Rolls Royce?
A used Rolls Royce has pretty much the same features to offer you as a brand new one with the exception of some little details that may have been added depending upon the year you are looking at. Of course, not having these extra details means you are not paying for them. If you have ever longed to own a luxury car like this, used is the way to go. At some point in your life, you may decided you want new and you will not settle for used, but if you are not at that point you can still have the car you have always wanted.
The Rolls Royce is worthy of attention regardless of which year model or make it is. They are well known among the rich and the famous type people, but buying them used can still gain anyone the same status as a new one. Perhaps wanting one has nothing to do with any status and the reason you want one is just because they are known for their performance. Whatever the reason, the chance to buy a used Rolls Royce is a privilege for anyone who longs to own one, but cannot afford a brand new one. Sytner wants to put you in a new or used Rolls Royce. You can choose the make and model, they will provide you with excellent customer service and help you in any way possible. If you leave the lot with a new Rolls Royce, be proud. If you leave the lot with a used Rolls Royce, be just as proud.
Mercedes-Benz Sydney A World Apart
What could it be about a company, in this case a Mercedes dealership, that gives it continued growth and success even in the current economic situation? What would entice people to move forward with the purchase of a vehicle, a high end vehicle in spite of the economy? mercedes-benz sydney knows the answer and knows it well. So well, in fact, that the company has managed to show continued growth, yes even in this economy. Skeptical? Just consider the $45 million facility scheduled to open March 2010 that will be the new home of the factory owned flagship store.
Anyone that has purchased a vehicle through mercedes-benz sydney, or even considered it, could tell you the answer, Supreme Customer Experience. From the onset, the goal of the thriving company has been to set the standard in customer service. A goal they have managed to attain and excel in. What could be so different from other dealerships? How much nicer can purchasing a vehicle be from one place to another? Perhaps a portion of the credit goes to the Brand. It’s no secret that Mercedes are one of the most superb vehicles manufactured. It could possibly have something to do with the luxurious environment at the facility. Surely the sale of the vehicle is a major part. The benefits and luxuries of owning a Mercedes are very substantial. The upfront service at mercedes benz sydney is superb, but it doesn’t stop there.
Post Sale Customer Service is a natural extension of the experience provided at mercedes-benz sydney. Not only will the new facility harbor 30 work bays and the best in diagnostic equipment, but as always, it employs factory trained technicians. What better service can a vehicle receive than that? An added perk at the Airport location is the express valet service. This goes hand in hand with the prestige surrounding a Mercedes Benz. Departure can become a luxury when in the hands of the Mercedes Benz professionals. Customers can take their Mercedes to the Airport location and will be transported to the check in location. While away, the vehicle is vacuumed, interior polished, hand washed and dried, wheels shined, tires cleaned and blacked, then fluids and pressures checked. Upon return, the customer is picked up at the airport and transported back to their pride and joy.
It’s the culmination of every aspect of the customer experience at mercedes benz sydney that has made the difference in losing ground and continued growth.
You Have Your License Plates and You Have Your Funny License Plates
We tend to drive around a lot in this world. It is mostly necessary, especially if you live half an hour from the workplace and there are no available busses. However, once in a while, when driving to work in a very bad mood, something catches our eye. We look and see that the car right next to us and look at its license plate. The license plate says 2KRABBY and we manage to chuckle a little bit. Just those simple things can brighten our day. My license plate is actually 2KRABBY. My husband came up with it because he thinks I’m too crabby. So do my kids. So do my co-workers. What can I say? It’s how I am. We look at funny license plates and think where or how they came up with it. Like, for example, a license plate saying BZBZMOM. We translate it to “busy, busy mom.” How did this person come up with such a funny license plate? What is the story behind it? I see lots of people look and laugh when they see my license plate. It brightens their days or makes them stare at you. Either way, a funny license plate can make a change in someone’s day. Do you have a hilarious word or phrase that you can put on your license plate? If you do, why not make your license place funny and use it. Sure, people may stare at you for hours or they may complement you on a very funny license plate. Either way, you know that you brightened someone’s day.
One Way to be Smart and Not Desperate With Your Finances
With our current economy everyone is looking for ways to save. When your current income becomes reduced from unemployment or downsizing it may become necessary to think about a car refinance option. Sometimes your budget just no longer matches your income and you need to refinance your car loan.When money gets tight we have to think of different ways to lower our monthly bills. We can always reduce purchases and forgo certain luxuries, however sometimes we must take even more drastic measures when our financial situation becomes desperate.Often times when you do a car refinance it will reduce your monthly payment. While this may increase the overall amount you have to pay it may also make it possible for you to survive a financial crisis in your life.Another thing you may want to look into doing is to sell off any unnecessary items. Have a yard sale, place ads in the paper, or try to sell items on eBay and Craigslist to bring in a little extra money to help in those rough months.Another reason to refinance your car loan is to keep from getting behind on your payments. As you know, if you get behind on your payments you run the risk of losing your car completely. By lowering your monthly payment you would be able to keep your car and avoid damaging your credit score.Remember that the best time to qualify for a refinance is before you are in financial trouble. So if you are in an industry that is seeing hard times it would be smart to take action before something happens to your income.By being smart with your finances you will be better prepared in case something does happen to your current source of income. As you meet with different lenders make sure you ask questions like what your interest rate will be, if you’re getting a variable or fixed rate, and what the fees are going to be. This way you can really know how much you could save with your refinance car loan.
You Have Your License Plates and You Have Your Funny License Plates
We tend to drive around a lot in this world. It is mostly necessary, especially if you live half an hour from the workplace and there are no available busses. However, once in a while, when driving to work in a very bad mood, something catches our eye. We look and see that the car right next to us and look at its license plate. The license plate says 2KRABBY and we manage to chuckle a little bit. Just those simple things can brighten our day. My license plate is actually 2KRABBY. My husband came up with it because he thinks I’m too crabby. So do my kids. So do my co-workers. What can I say? It’s how I am. We look at funny license plates and think where or how they came up with it. Like, for example, a license plate saying BZBZMOM. We translate it to “busy, busy mom.” How did this person come up with such a funny license plate? What is the story behind it? I see lots of people look and laugh when they see my license plate. It brightens their days or makes them stare at you. Either way, a funny license plate can make a change in someone’s day. Do you have a hilarious word or phrase that you can put on your license plate? If you do, why not make your license place funny and use it. Sure, people may stare at you for hours or they may complement you on a very funny license plate. Either way, you know that you brightened someone’s day.
You Have Your License Plates and You Have Your Funny License Plates
We tend to drive around a lot in this world. It is mostly necessary, especially if you live half an hour from the workplace and there are no available busses. However, once in a while, when driving to work in a very bad mood, something catches our eye. We look and see that the car right next to us and look at its license plate. The license plate says 2KRABBY and we manage to chuckle a little bit. Just those simple things can brighten our day. My license plate is actually 2KRABBY. My husband came up with it because he thinks I’m too crabby. So do my kids. So do my co-workers. What can I say? It’s how I am. We look at funny license plates and think where or how they came up with it. Like, for example, a license plate saying BZBZMOM. We translate it to “busy, busy mom.” How did this person come up with such a funny license plate? What is the story behind it? I see lots of people look and laugh when they see my license plate. It brightens their days or makes them stare at you. Either way, a funny license plate can make a change in someone’s day. Do you have a hilarious word or phrase that you can put on your license plate? If you do, why not make your license place funny and use it. Sure, people may stare at you for hours or they may complement you on a very funny license plate. Either way, you know that you brightened someone’s day.
Focusing on Leasing Leads is the Fastest Route to Improved Sales
It is surprising just how many people in business believe that all they must do is open their door every morning and the public is going to find them. They may have a quality business with a good product, but if their marketing strategy leaves a great deal to be desired, their product is never going to be discovered. A productive marketing strategy is as important as the quality of the product itself. If no one knows what you offer, you might as well not be in business at all. While there may have been a time when curiosity in a small town may have led to people coming through your doors and happily finding you were just exactly what they were looking for, the competition today is far too great to relax behind a desk and expect sales to just appear. Leasing leads are necessary in the business of a business owner is going to make a profit and be able to continue growing.
The person who really knows how to do the work of business will not wait for the customer to come to him or her. They will actively seek out those who are in the market for their product and will do everything they can to secure the sale in the shortest possible time. They will then do the process over again, actually combining their work with the last costumer, fully expecting that a good business practice will cause the satisfied customer to bring in additional business. While searching for leasing leads the wise person will narrow the search field so that no time is lost going down endless roads that will not lead to sales.
Refining the search is a skill that is acquired. The marketplace is very large but the competition is fierce. There are many people in business that may be very similar to yours. You are going to have to show yourself to be the number one provider of the service the public is looking for and you will have a very short time to convince them. Quality leasing leads can be found by bringing a wide variety of leads down to a focused group that will surely lead to multiple sales. as the sales are completed you do not stop your search and refining project, you continuing doing that work, day in and day out. Stay focused and continue working on bringing the leasing leads to your business.
In today’s economic climate, anything that can help you save some hard earned cash is obviously very welcome. Cars are, unfortunately, a drain on our resources and yet a necessary part of our lives. The big issue now is how to save the pennies whilst still being mobile and keeping the convenience that our vehicles give us. Car dealers have seen a huge increase in recent years in sales of more eco friendly models as not only are they better for the environment but they are much cheaper to run than conventional cars. This may be a great place to start if you are currently searching for a new ride as some models are tax free due to very low emissions which is a great way to save money.
The second thing to consider before driving is how you can lighten the load. Even a little extra weight in the car can quite dramatically affect the miles per gallon. Take things out of the boot that you don’t need and if carrying heavy items is necessary, try to keep them central inside the car or even balance the weight if you can. This gives the benefit of an easier drive but also prevents premature wear and tear on your tyres, in the long run saving you money on replacing them.
If the vehicle you have your eye on down at the car dealers has some body modifications then do consider asking for them to be removed. A spoiler may look cool, but it creates a down force which although keeps the car stuck to the road at speed, also ruins any good fuel economy you thought you had.
Keeping your car properly maintained is also very important. Keep the tyres pumped up at all times and the air filter clean. Make sure that the oil levels stay where they should be and that the engine coolant is topped up. When buying a car it is advisable to ask your local car dealer where he would recommend buying fuel. He may know of decent fuel that is less expensive than you’d expect which benefits the engine greatly. Sometimes the cheapest fuel is not the most economic in the long run, as low quality fuel is bad for the engine and can lead to much more expensive problems later. Sticking to these simple instructions could save you more money than you think.