Sports Cars 2008

Sports Car Articles : Sports Cars For Sale   by Elizabeth Morgan

Sports cars are available for sale through dealers and auctions, and on the Internet. Auctions often advertise bargain prices, which they call wholesale rates. Many such prices are bait to attract unsuspecting customers, who end up paying extras like taxes, money for the fuel already in the car, valet charges and more. Therefore, it is better to exercise a little caution before going in for such ‘deals.’ You can help yourself by checking out the auction company’s credibility, making inquiries about the car’s price at other places, examining the car for defects, finalizing a budget for yourself, and familiarizing yourself with the auction procedure by attending other auctions.

If you choose to buy from a dealer you must conduct some research prior to visiting the showroom. Find out about the car, other dealers who may be offering a better price, and other factors. Test-drive the car before you decide to buy it. Do not discuss your finances with the dealer; it would suffice to inform him how much you are willing to pay. Take advantage of finance schemes and make sure to get details of extras that come with the car, such as free gifts or warranties. Once you reach the price that you are comfortable with, don’t bargain further in the hope of a better offer.

Many sports cars are bought and sold on the Internet these days. Websites feature attractive specs, pictures and reviews of sports cars to attract customers. Shortlist advertisements give complete details about the car, mode of payment, conditions of sale and other information. Avoid advertisements that are vague on details. Examine the seller’s record on the site; if possible, speak to one of his previous customers. Try to arrange for a test drive and a viewing of the car before you pay for it.

These are just a few important pointers that will help you make a good purchase, so that you can really enjoy your newly purchased sports car.

Article Content from: 123-Car-Reviews.com

About the Author

Good “Car Reviews” site: 123-Car-Reviews.com

Source: http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=573798

Sports Car Articles - Avanti: The American Alternative to European Sports Cars   by Jason Moore

Avanti Motors the maker of Avanti catalytic converter can trace its roots back to the year 1962 when the first Avanti, which was at that time a product of the legendary Studebaker auto manufacturer, was launched.

The present Avanti is more of a modern tribute to the original revolutionary vehicle styled by Raymond Loewy. The 2007 Avanti still possess most of the original car’s unique lines such as the circular headlamps, the asymmetrical bonnet bulge, the absence of a front grill, and the coke bottle profile.

The 2007 Avanti is still built on a Mustang chassis. And its standard and only powertrain is the regular Mustang 300-horsepower, 3-valve, V8, with 5-speed automatic transmission. The car is available in a convertible model, in a standard Mustang top, or a coup with a unique side and back roof.

The technical specifications are identical except for the 245/40-18 and 275/40-18 tires fr/rr. The interior is also in standard Mustang GT with the Avanti logo sewn into the door and seat panels. The dashboard is made up of wood eliminating the large chrome rings around the speedo and tach.

Each Avanti is assembled by a team of highly dedicated craftsmen at the production facility located in Cancun, Mexico. They produce just 150 Avantis each year thus ensuring the exclusivity of the vehicle.

The originally produced Avanti was conceived as the American alternative to the luxury sports cars of the UK and continental Europe. The current Avanti continues that role.

Details on the 2007 Avanti Convertible and Coupe

Engine Specifications:

Engine type: 4.6 OHV 24V VB
Engine Electronics: EEV-V
Displacement: 4.6L (281 cu. in.)
Horsepower (SAE net@rpm): 300@5750
Torque (lb-ft@rpm): 320@4500
Compression Ratio: 9.8:1
Bore and Stroke (in.): 3.6×3.6
Main Bearings: 5
Valve Lifters: Hydraulic with Roller Finger Followers
Fuel Delivery: Sequential Multi-part Electronic Fuel Injection
Recommended Fuel: Unleaded Regular
Exhaust: Dual Stainless Steel
Fuel Economy: 17/25 manual; 18/23 auto
Transmission Type: 5-speed automatic
Engine Block Material: Aluminum
Cylinder head material: Cast Aluminum
Avanti Coupe

Engine Specifications:
Engine Type: 4.6 OHV 24V VB
Engine Electronics: EEV-V
Displacement: 4.6L (281 cu. in.)
Horsepower (SAE net@rpm): 300@5750
Torque (lb-ft@rpm): 320@4500
Compression Ratio: 9.8:1
Bore and Stroke (in.): 3.6×3.6
Main Bearings: 5
Valve Lifters: Hydraulic with Roller Finger Followers
Fuel Delivery: Sequential Multi-part Electronic Fuel Injection
Recommended Fuel: Unleaded Regular
Exhaust: Dual Stainless Steel
Fuel Economy: 17/25 manual; 18/23 auto
Transmission Type: 5-speed automatic
Engine Block Material: Aluminum
Cylinder head material: Cast Aluminum

About the Author

Jason Moore, a 35 year old freelance writer from Austin, Texas. He also works as a marketing analyst for an established auto parts store in the country

Source: http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=557210

Sports Car Articles : Sports Car Rental - A Good Transport Alternative   by Tango Pang

There is no better way is there to see a new place than from the driver’s seat of a classy sports car rental. Considering taxi fares and the hassle of trying to procure transportation, a high quality sports car rental might be just the thing to make your vacation a relaxing, and memorable experience. Sports car rental services can assist you whether you’re in the United States, Europe, Asia or anywhere in the world.

When you’re considering what type of sports car rental to choose from, you’d do well to think over what your intents are. Do you have only two people? Consider getting a classy two-door model. Will you be traveling on any dirt or bumpy roads? If so, make sure your ground clearance is high enough to avoid the debris. If you’re an experienced driver, there’s nothing like the power and control of a manual transmission sports car.

Next, decide on your itinerary. Depending on where you’ll be you’ll probably be using different car rental services. Check out your options using the internet - competitive pricing will find you the best rate on the sports car of your dreams. Car rental companies usually charge per day or per week, sometimes with extra charges for the distance. A company might, for instance, charge $200 per day plus fifty cents for every mile over one hundred or so. Figure out beforehand what your travel plans are in order to get the best price for your situation.

Rates for sports car rentals usually range between two hundred American dollars and four to five. Most rental companies offer weekly rates, which are generally much better than the daily ones. No matter what your budget and needs are, you should be able to find a sports car rental to meet your specific needs and desire. Next time you travel, make sure you travel in style.

About the Author

Tangopang is the author and editor of many publications at http://www.payamgostar.com Read more about You Can Beat The Speed Camera Without Breaking Any Law

Source: http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=437521

Sports Car Articles : “Best Real World” Sports Car Named   by Katie Jones

The world of sports cars is one that is packed with aesthetically pleasing vehicles with heart pounding performance on the streets or on the track. Choosing one over the other is pretty much a hard choice. The performance and looks of sports car in the market are so bold that one would rather choose all of them than single one out as the best of the best.

Recently though, MSN website visitors voted the BMW 3 Series Coupe as the Car of the Year 2007. The BMW 3 Series Coupe beat its competitors which came in various forms including the Ferrari 599 GTB and the Lamborghini Murcielago LP460.

The BMW coupe received 23 percent of all the votes in the online poll. The amount of votes garnered by the 3 Series is almost doubled compared to its nearest competition. The coupe took the pole position from the Ferrari 599 GTB the reason behind this being is its looks, drivability, and unbeatable brand image according to the voters of the poll.

It can be remembered that for the past two years, respondents on MSN Cars’ poll voted on the spot those very expensive cars. The Aston Martin DB9 and the Bugatti Veyron are the winners for the past two years.

The manager of MSN Cars, Tom Evans, stated that this year’s poll had a great outcome since the after the two very expensive winners for the past couple of years, this year’s winner is “a car that many may end up driving sooner or later”. He added that the BMW 3 Series is a “cracking looking car, and great to drive too, making it a worthy winner.”

One of the members of the 3 Series is the 335 coupe. The BMW 335 is equipped with an inline six-cylinder engine, with twin turbochargers, a high precision fuel injection, and an all-aluminum crankcase. The engine can produce as much as 300 horsepower adequate enough to give anyone a thrilling ride onboard the 355. The torque produced by the engine can power the car to 60 miles per hour from a stationary position in just 5.3 seconds.

The BMW 355 does not only have the power and performance looked for by sports car enthusiasts - it also posses the looks of a true BMW. The design of the car gives it a rounded front fascia but also gives it an aggressive look. Every design concept is truly unique and spells “coolness”. The exterior of the car including a fender that looks nothing like a Toyota fender to the twin tailpipe, the 355 is designed to please the eyes. The car though does not only please the eyes but also the other senses as it offers a very high level of performance that one would only get from a BMW.

About the Author

Katie Jones writes for a local newspaper and her beat involves the latest updates in the automotive industry. She is also working on her book on cars during her spare time.

Source: http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=427525

Sports Cars Articles : MGF Is A Fun Sports Car!   by Carolyn Clayton

By Mike Cain

The MGF, designed and produced by Rover, is a small mid-engined sports car, with a soft top roof and plenty of boot space. Despite this, it is not renowned for its practicality, but if that is what you are looking for then you are missing the point of the MGF - it is intended to be fun to drive and something of a head turner. The driving position is quite low to the ground, which means when the top is down you get a unique driving experience, it is ideal for the summer months. It grips the road well and has good balance when driving, which is just as well with a 0-60 time of just 8.5 seconds. It responds immediately to the slightest touch on either the accelerator or the break, roaring into life with a great burst of energy, yet slowing quickly without much effort.

However, the slightly cramped cabin (especially when the roof is up) and hard body styling makes for an uncomfortable time when taking in long journeys or negotiating bumpy roads and sharp corners. The plastic rear windscreen means is liable to cloud up, and can become creased and folded where the roof has been put up/down many times. Frequent problems have also been reported with head gaskets on the older models, and this is a common cause of breakdowns.

Second hand values have stayed quite strong, due to Rover restricting the supply, and cars can be picked up from around £3,500 for a 1995 model and upwards, and it proves relatively cheap to run. Fuel consumption is good, at around 38.4 mpg, and with an insurance group of 9/10 cover is cheap as well.

Production is due to begin once more in 2008, courtesy of Nanjing Automobile, at the old Longbridge plant in West Midlands, as well as in their yet to be completed Chinese factory. The MGF is expected to go back on sale in 2009.

All in all the MGF is a fun sports car, with great style and personality, suitably cosy and enjoyable during the winter, and a fast, thrilling ride in the summer sun.

About the Author

Mike Cain is a freelance webmaster writing, covering topics such as Automotive Articles. Free to republish this article provided a working hyperlink remains to our site. Source:Article Alley

Source: http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=423039

Sports Cars Articles : Brooke Double R: sports car that looks like a racer   by John Hartley

Sneaking into the group of small but incredibly fast sports cars is the Brooke Double R. It was launched a while ago, but has been updated and improved by a couple of experienced engineers, and this lovely and tiny car is now in production. You get tremendous acceleration and cornering for your money.

Performance is sensational, and depends how much power you want. The most powerful Brooke Double R - 300 bhp - has a claimed 0-60 mph time of 3.2 seconds, while 260 bhp will get you to 60 mph in less than 4 seconds, and all the excitement that goes with that performance. To match it you will need a Noble M400 or Porsche 911 Turbo.

Clearly, the Brooke Double R is a real firecracker. The fact that the top speed is only about 155 mph - the same speed that many a supercar is limited to electronically - is not what it’s about. It is acceleration, braking and cornering that gives the real thrill of driving fast, and you will get it here.

Most of these open wheelers have front engines, but the Brooke Double R has a mid-mounted 2.3 liter Cosworth Ford engine, which develops 190, 260 or 300 bhp according to your choice. It is just like a mini version of a mid-engined racing car, just made a bit wider to get two people in.

Optimum weight distribution

To get near ideal weight distribution, the engine is mounted fore and aft instead of crosswise. With the engine mounted across the frame in unit with its transaxle, you get at bit too much weight at the back. On the other hand, with the engine in front of the transaxle, you get better weight distribution and a slimmer body - which is what the guys that designed the Brook Double R wanted.

Five-speed transaxle

To make this work, they had to find a good transaxle at a realistic price. Brooke has opted for a Renault five-speed unit, as a six-speeder would have cost a lot more. You might think a six-speed box was obligatory these days, but this is not the case for road use. With five well-chosen ratios you can get the same performance as with six-speeds, which often have too high gearing on the top two or even three ratios.

The car is clothed in an elegant and simple body with a tiny wraparound windshield, and cycle-type fenders - it looks just like a racing car for the sixties. The headlamps are concealed, and you raise them up manually. All nice and simple.

Cockpit like a racer, too

The cockpit is also simplicity itself - absolutely not a frill in site! You sit behind a small Momo steering wheel, with a flattened bottom rim section, and a big rev-counter set in an instrument binnacle off to one side. The gear lever is on the opposite side to normal - like on those old racing cars - which is to the right on right-hand drive cars and vice versa.

There is a neat pedal box with floor mounted pedals - as on the best cars - and a simple moulded seat.

You can have either a very low windscreen, or a slightly taller one. Both are still low with no room for wipers - they are really wind deflectors which you look over. Choose the lower one, and you will want a helmet on at speeds over 75 mph, despite the twin headrests.

Cosworth-Ford up to 300 bhp

In choosing a Cosworth- Ford engine Brooke has gone for quality and ease of obtaining parts needed for servicing. Cosworth provides a range of tuned Ford engines, modified to give the necessary durability for the power output, and as they are four-cylinder in-line units they are compact.

The base model comes with 190 bhp, then you can go to 260 bhp at 7,500 rpm with 200 lb ft (271 lb ft) torque at 6,100 rpm, or you can go for all-out power with the 300 bhp unit.

Suspension and steering are on classic lines, with double wishbones front and rear, of airfoil section because they need to slip through the air, with aluminum alloy suspension uprights. Coil springs and adjustable dampers are fitted front and rear.

Buy a Brooke Double R with 190 bhp and you will spend about $50,000 (£27,995) but if you want a manic, likely-to-lose-your-licence 300 bhp version you will need to fork out around $70,000 (£36,995). It will help if you live where there is plenty of sunshine and not much rain!

John Hartley is editor of http://www.fast-autos.com, an online magazine devoted to fast cars and supercars. He has written from many of the world’s top auto magazines, and has written many books about cars and the auto industry, including ‘Suspension and Steering Q&A’ and ‘The Electronics Revolution in the Motor Industry’.

About the Author

Sports Car

Source: http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=402666

Sports Cars Articles : The Eagle Talon Base Model: A Sports Car for Special Buyers   by Correy Putton

Different drivers look for different cars. Some might look at speed while others for the power the car packs or how sturdy the structure is. There are numerous ways a person can choose his car.

In search of their perfect cars, they may have to spend a lot of time thinking about what to choose and spend their hard earned money on. While some may find their dream car sooner than later, there are those who take so much time and goes through different choices. In one of these searches, one may find the Eagle Talon. While the brand has been an underrated member of the Chrysler family since its inception in 1987, their Base model of the Talon has more than held on its own against other sports car with bigger names.

The car is suitable for first time buyers of sports car; it has the look and feel of a sports car even though its brand name may not be that famous. It possesses that aura that can turn heads as it passes by. It has that aggressive look common on all sports car out in our roads today. After all, how a car looks is one of the aspects buyers are looking for especially when opting to buy a sports car. Who would not want a flashy car when it comes to sports cars?

The Base model is not just all about looks though it has a decent acceleration with 140 horsepower coming from the 2.0 liter twin-cam four cylinder Chrysler engine which can generate torque of up to 130 lb/ft. It may not sound much but add to that the entire design of the car and the power of the engine can propel this car to a very fast speed.

Users have the choice of either a manual transmission or an automatic one. But users who opt to go for the manual transmission find it hard to master and may take some time to getting used to. So, the safest bet is to go for the automatic four speed transmission. While that may be the case, performance enthusiasts may still go for the manual transmission for the added thrill and excitement to the whole driving experience. The steering of this car is above par for it gives you an experiencing of racing with precision. Everything all adds up to the whole sports car feel that the car promises to give to its potential driver.

To achieve the full potential of the engine, the car is designed to have a low drag coefficient thereby increasing savings on fuel consumption and further enhance the full potential of the engine, making the car go even faster. Add to that the savings on service maintenance for the Eagle parts used in the entire automobile is of high quality. The performance of such parts is vital to the lifespan of the car, and we all know how important that is in the long run.

Added to the whole package of the car is its comfortable driver’s seat. It boasts of having a good side and back support to keep the driver comfortable even on long distance travels. It also gives the driver that tight feel common on performance racing cars. The tachometer and the speedometer are easily visible to the driver and the rest of the controls are conveniently located on the control panel right into the center of the console.

All in all, this Base model of the Eagle Talon gives the user the feel of driving a sports car. It comes with the looks and the performance to back it up.

About the Author

Correy Putton is a 28-year old bachelor from Pittsburgh, PA who has been around cars for the better part of his life. He now works online and writes all about his passion: cars. He is also a certified mechanic.

Source: http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=376792