Thursday, March 30, 2006

GM brings back the Camaro muscle car



DETROIT (Reuters) - General Motors Corp. on Monday showed off a Chevrolet Camaro prototype inspired by the 1969 version of the legendary muscle car to try to rev up demand for its return.

Many expect Chrysler and Chevrolet to put the Challenger and Camaro into production, given Ford Motor Co.'s success with its redesigned version of the original 1960s muscle car, the Mustang.

Restored, first-generation Camaros can fetch between $35,000 and $200,000...

Read article

Wednesday, March 29, 2006

How To Buy Your Dream Car And Avoid Car Dealers' Dirty Tricks

by Amit Laufer

Buying a car is usually our second biggest investment after our home purchase and most of us will do it more than once in our life.

There is something emotional about cars, it represents our taste and style, our economic status and our character. Some women even claim that a car is a man’s extension of his reproductive organ. One the other hand (the good hand) there are women out there that might express their exhibitionism and extravagance by choosing to drive a red flashy car for the whole world to notice them. Both sexes would agree they sometimes feel they ”fall in love” with a certain car model.

There are people who get very existed from a small scratch on the cars lower side, as if it were their own skin. The beauty of the car, its aerodynamics shape, the gadgets inside, the seats the feel of it all play a major part in our decision making.

In our modern life it’s almost impossible to function without one and it’s expensive to acquire, to finance and to maintain.

Buying a new car is a lot of fun, the new car has its unique smell no doubt about it, the very fact you can afford to own a brand new car is a great feeling.

When is the best time to buy a new car?

There are two "best times" to buy a car. The end of December is a good time for car buyers to buy a new car. Everyone is out buying Christmas gifts, leaving new car dealer lots void of customers, motivating dealers to cut costs, and break year end sales records. Another good time to buy a car is July to October as new car dealers sell off cars at low prices to clear space for new car models. Secret factory to dealer incentives can be $1000-$6000 in addition to new car consumer rebates!

How and where to search for prices:

Invoice price – what the dealer pays the manufacturer – has become the real negotiating point. Allowing for the dealer's need to make a profit, the price you pay should be somewhere between sticker and invoice.

Virtually all car buying sites on the Internet show invoice and in most cases their buying tools automatically add option/package invoice amounts as you work your way through the process.

Any car buyer, with very little effort, can get an accurate summation of a car's value, which immediately puts him or her in a stronger negotiating position.

Happily for the consumer, the Internet now allows a prospective buyer to uncover market conditions at any moment in various parts of the country. http://www.Edmunds.com/

for example, reveals the True Market Value: http://www.CarsDirect.com/, which sells cars online, has its own version called Guaranteed CarsDirect price http://www.Intellichoice.com/ sorts out the Best Deals of the Month.

The negotiation phase and the dirty tricks:

After you made your research via the Internet, it’s important you make some phone calls to car dealers and ask for some written offers to be sent to you via the fax or email for the car of your dreams. That way, you can compare prices between several dealers without being pressured by a salesperson.

You would be much better off selling your old car yourself rather than to trade it in through the dealer because the dealer will have to earn some money on it as well.

Remember, everything is a negotiable, car too. Buying a new car is tricky from the moment you step into the car dealership arena, you might be manipulated by scam artists, well trained sales persons that will use every trick in their fat book of tricks to extort every last Dollar out of your bank account.

There is one well known trick they teach in car dealers sales courses, it’s called “throwing a lowball”, in this tactic a customer is offered a very good price on a car, Perhaps as much as $500 below competitors prices. The good deal, however, is not genuine, its only purpose is to cause a prospect to decide to buy at this dealership and not from the other dealers. Once the decision is made a raft of purchase forms are filled out, extensive financial terms are arranged. The dealer knows, customers develop a range of new reasons to support the choice they have now made.

Then something happens. All of a sudden an “error” in the calculations is discovered, It might be the salesman forgot to add in the cost of the air conditioner and if the customer insists on having it, then $500 must be added to the price...

The cover up operation is played sophistically, some times they let the bank handling the financing find the “mistake”, other times the boss is not approving the deal because “we’d be losing money”. They make it look as if it’s not that big mistake as it’s a relatively small percentage of the price of the car and as they stress out it only brings it to be equal to competitors.

The impressive thing about the lowball tactic is its ability to make a person feel pleased with a poor choice. If anyone tries to change the originally-quoted terms or talk you into buying a different vehicle, just say "no" and go somewhere else.

If you are interested to learn about many others car dealers scams and how to avoid them go to: http://www.carbuyingtips.com/scams.htm

Until all the papers have been signed there are still ways in which a shrewd dealer may add to his profit by talking you into extras you don't want and probably don't need. These can include added and overpriced insurance, extended warranties, rust proofing (absolutely unnecessary), paint or fabric protection, anti-theft plans, and more. Smile and firmly turn them all down.

Finally, before you drive away, do a careful inspection of the car, looking for scratches or dents; anything that mars the perfect finish. If you're not happy, get a written agreement (known as a Due Bill). It means you have the right to later return the vehicle in order that flaws can be corrected.

MBA - International Trade & Finance - Heriot-Watt University. Bsc. Computers and Information Systems - Long Island University - C.W Post Campus. Hobby: Photography & Cars. Married with two Children.
Owner Editor of: http://www.Cars-I-Like.com

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Driving in Germany


by Joshua Spaulding

I will start off with some ‘common sense’ information like your drivers license. Of course if you are not a German citizen your drivers license probably does not authorize you to drive in Germany. You will need to contact your local license branch (BMV) and find out the steps you need to take to receive an international drivers license. I have not personally done this because I have a European military drivers license but from what I have heard it is not too hard to do or terribly costly.

Next of course is having a car to drive when you arrive in Germany. This is pretty obvious. Coordinate with any INTERNATIONAL car rental service and they can have a car ready and waiting for you at your arrival city. Another option is to rent the car in Germany, which is a pretty easy process as well. Most service representatives speak English and will be happy to help you out.

Now you will need to know the ‘meat and potatoes’ of driving in Germany, the traffic laws. If you are an American, or have driven in the U.S., you will find that driving in Germany is not much different. Without telling you every single travel law written in Germany, I will try to shed some light on some of the major differences:

Traffic lights: When pulling up to a traffic light you will notice that unlike the U.S. traffic lights which go from green to yellow to red and then directly back to green, German traffic lights will go from red to yellow and then green. This is nothing to worry about. I guess they just want to make sure you have it in gear and your ready to take off. The second thing, but extremely more important, is the ‘right on red’ rule we have in the U.S. This rule DOES NOT EXIST in Germany. If you try to make a right turn when the traffic light is red you may find yourself in a lot of pain and in a major lawsuit.

Autobahn: If you are thinking that the autobahn is the paradise for people with a lead foot you may end up with a speeding ticket. Although there are some stretches of the autobahn that have no speed limit there is a recommended speed limit of 120 kilometers per hour that you should obey. Granted, most do exceed this speed recommendation but now you know you CAN be ticketed.

Accidents: If you are the first on the seen of an accident in which someone has been injured you are required by law to provide assistance. Whether you simply stop and call an ambulance (112) not (911), or you provide medical aid, you must do something to help the casualty.

Where is Ausfhart Germany? No Ausfhart is not a city that seems to pop up everywhere you go. Ausfhart is the German word for exit.

For more information about Driving in Germany and Information on Germany please visit us at http://www.thegermantruth.com

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Car Insurance Online -The Sign Of Things To Come

by Justin Brown

Although we all dislike paying for it when the time comes around, car insurance is a necessity and has been a legal requirement for all drivers for many years now. However, due to the large number of companies now offering vehicle insurance, paying over the odds shouldn't be the case, and finding a deal to suit you shouldn't be a problem. In this brief guide we aim to provide an insight into the types of insurance, buying car insurance online, and important factors to remember before comparing insurance quotes.

Types of Insurance

There are three main types of vehicle insurance, all of which differ in what they cover and as a result what it costs to insure. We will briefly go through each type:

'Third Party Only' Insurance:

This type of insurance covers the policyholder against damage to either a third party or a third party's property. So, for example, if you were to damage a vehicle and injure the occupant(s) of that vehicle, your insurance would cover you against the costs to repair the vehicle and any medical claims made by the occupant(s) in either vehicle involved in the accident other than you. What this type of insurance will not do is cover you for any expenses towards your own vehicle, nor any medical claims made by yourself. Nor will you be covered in the circumstance that your vehicle is stolen or set on fire.

'Third Party Fire and Theft' Insurance:

This insurance policy is exactly the same as described in 'Third Party Only' above, with one exception. Should your vehicle be stolen or set on fire then you would be covered under this policy.

'Fully Comprehensive' Insurance:

A 'Fully Comprehensive' insurance cover will pay out in circumstances outlined in the above two policies, and will also pay for damage to your own vehicle, regardless of who was at fault for the damage.

Insurance Online

Using websites to browse and choose a provider is a great way to buy insurance and is certainly here to stay, and here's a few reasons why.

There was once a time when phoning around insurance companies would be very time consuming and would have to be conducted during office hours or in a rush after work or during work breaks. However, the internet is available at all hours of the day, everyday, all year. This allows you to browse through various websites to read up on their insurance offers, determine which is the most suitable for you in your own time in terms of insurance cover and cost, and to complete an online form in a matter of minutes.

There is also a conception that the internet is an unsafe place to use credit card information, although the encryption provided by companies accepting credit cards means that it can be argued that it is safer than giving details out over the phone.

Furthermore, the good news is that many companies now offer incentives to use their online service as opposed to their telephone service, and often provide discounts due to the decreased human resource time needed per sale. The wide range of insurance companies available on the internet is also good news, as it means that the competition to offer the best premiums is strong, ultimately saving you money.

Important factors to remember when comparing insurance quotes online:

When comparing insurance quotes online, it is very important to compare a like-to-like quote and not two totally different ones, an extreme case would be comparing an insurance quote for a car under 'Third Party Only' insurance against 'Fully Comprehensive'.

Thanks to the internet, comparing quotes is now easier than it ever has been. Ensure though, that you evaluate each quote to determine which represents best value for money. Consider the likelihood that cheapest is not always the best, and may be full of qualifications, heavy excess fees, and exclusions.

One recommendation is to shop around first. Why not browse a few websites to read up on the range of offers currently available before deciding on one that's right for you, you may end up saving your self a lot of money.

Justin Brown is the owner of the site http://www.idealauto.co.uk where you can find information on car insurance and also sell any used cars in the UK.

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Thursday, March 23, 2006

Audi TT: Offering Driving Pleasure


by Jennifer Dylan

Introduced in 1995, the Audi TT was still a concept car that time. After three years, the Audi TT came rolling off the manufacturing and assembly lines to the streets. This new vehicle then held the Audi A4’s shorter version of its platform. This vehicle was manufactured as a front drive coupe and as a roadster. It also was sold and offered with a Quattro all wheel drive.

The Audi TT has a unique style and design that makes it stand out from the rest. It has a roofline that quite resembles the Volkswagen’s new Beetle. In 2000, this vehicle received a nomination for the North American Car of the Year award. That same year and the following year, the Audi TT also made its way to the Car and Driver magazine’s ten best cars list.

The Audi TT offers three engine configurations that includes a 130/180 horsepower 1.8 T turbocharged engine with four cylinders. There is also a 225 horsepower 1.8 engine with intercooled turbos. Both the coupe and the roadster offer a front-wheel and an all-wheel drive. To add to the sporty façade and look of the Audi TT, 17 inch alloy wheels with a six spoke cast are added in plus high performance tires and high intensity Xenon headlamps that has an automatic adjustment. The vehicle overall provides drivers and users great luxury and comfort along with superior class and high technology auto components and equipments. The features include anti-lock brakes, an electronic stability program, an electronic brake force distribution, an electronic differential lock, a CD audio system, and Homelink. Given as standard features for the Audi TT are seat-mounted head and chest side airbags and dual front airbags. Safety features are also added in for the Audi TT. The list includes three-point safety belts with pretensioners and load limiters and the LATCH system for child seats’ safety. Space and comfort is something that the Audi TT is generous of.

For Audi, the automobile company, the TT is equated to full strength and pure driving pleasure. The vehicle captivates the driver with its total agility and revolutionary design. The vehicle also gives more output and lesser weight. It also has a striking two-color finish that gives the Audi TT a unique look. The color and hue choices for this model line includes avus silver, misano red, Mauritius blue, silver, and phantom black.

A new Audi TT is expected to make its grand public debut at the 2006 Geneva Auto Show this coming March. Rumors have it that it will contain a styling that is loyal to the original design made by Freeman Thomas. Of course, changes will be done for the vehicle and that will include headlights and taillights that it gets from the Le Mans Concept.

Customers and owners can maintain the superior performance of the Audi TT with Auto Parts Go. Auto Parts Go is the leading supplier of Nissan discount-priced and quality Audi parts. For performance demands Auto Parts Go offers a collection of high quality and durable parts.

Jennifer Dylan is a 35-year-old gal who hails from San Francisco. She has a strange habit of updating herself on new car trends and models. She spends most of her time reading up on cars and hopes to test drive them. She works for one of the topnotch car parts dealer in the U.S.

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Car Parts It’s What’s On The Outside That Counts

by Dave Carter

When many of us think of car parts, we consider all the intricate devices that lurk under the hood and come together to make our vehicle drive smoothly and safely. While a large proportion of these parts are usually out of plain sight, many of the essential parts of a working car are part of the body of the vehicle. Just because you can see it, doesn’t mean it’s not essential in making your driving experience as enjoyable and safe as possible.

Safety is one of the most important tasks performed by the highly visible car parts that combine to create the outer shell of your automobile. While the various components of the engine are designed to get you where you want to go, the body of a car is designed to store the people that travel within, and their safety is paramount. Millions of dollars are spent each year on testing the strength and durability of these casings – this is where crash test dummies came about. And with car ratings increasingly including this safety aspect in their final judgment on a particular vehicle, this seems like money well spent. And while collisions and crashes might not be something any driver or passenger wants to dwell too long upon, it is the body of your vehicle that can make all the difference in your health’s prognosis in the event of such an awful occurrence.

The parts that combine to make your car’s outer hull also carry the responsibility of another requirement. This is the comfort of the vehicle’s passengers, an important factor in these days of frequent driving. While comfort might seem a concern of luxury or exotic car makers – we’ve all seen those advertisements that portray the inside of a high priced vehicle as though it were an expensive suite of lounge furniture – it is something to be considered in the construction of all cars. In the early days of motoring, automobiles were so far from user-friendly that motorists were physically only able to drive for limited periods. The car parts that make up the body of your vehicle need to be designed with this in mind also.

It is clear that the external parts of your car have an important role to play in the overall running of your vehicle. Combined with the suspension system, these parts are designed to make your trip as comfortable. Add to this the burden of your physical safety, and it is easy to see that external car parts need to do a lot more than just look good.

Dave is the owner of http://online-auto-parts.info a website providing information on car parts.

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Wednesday, March 22, 2006

2006 Dodge Viper: Endangering the Competition


by Joe Ratzkin

Entering the automobile world in 1992, the Dodge Viper has had undergone many changes as well as many obstacles. This year, 2006, the Dodge Viper is already on its third generation of vehicles. This time around, the vehicle is introduced as an all-new coupe.

Dan Knott, the director of Street and Racing Technology (SRT) for the Chrysler Group states, “Demand for a Dodge Viper Coupe started the day we introduced the Dodge Viper SRT10 Convertible for 2003. The all-new 2006 Dodge Viper SRT10 coupe is a natural evolution of the heritage of the Dodge Viper, and gives enthusiasts exactly that they’re looking for in the ultimate American sports car.” He also adds, “Dodge Viper SRT10 customers want to go beyond the level of the regular enthusiast, to the level of outrageous performance. Our all-new 2006 Dodge Viper SRT10 coupe gives our customers that performance in a stunning new package.”

The most obvious change for this new vehicle is that it now holds the aerodynamic “double bubble” roof. This roof holds a unique shape that provides a smooth airflow over the vehicle as well as assists in accommodating a large amount of space inside. Other new things for this new 2006 Dodge Viper SRT10 Coupe include the door glass, the rear quarter panels, the integrated rear spoiler, and the wraparound tail lights. It is very much similar to the original Dodge Viper GTS coupe’s look but this new one owns up to a more contemporary flair. Also added in are a set of unique alloy wheels which measures 18 inches for the front end and some 19 inches on the back.

The 2006 Dodge Viper SRT10 coupe holds an 8.3 liter all-aluminum motor that works with ten cylinders. This engine has the power to produce some 500 horsepower and around 525 pound feet of torque. To help it all up is a six speed manual transmission.

Backing up Knott’s statement regarding this new vehicle, Trevor Creed, Chrysler Group’s senior vice president for design exclaims, “It was important for us to sustain the emotion in the design. We wanted the 2006 Dodge Viper SRT10 coupe design to include a nod to the original Viper GTS coupe, but in a contemporary way. The Dodge Viper SRT10 coupe owner is often a racer, and the car has to scream that, even when it’s idling at the stoplight. The bottom line is that the new Dodge Viper SRT10 coupe’s design says a lot about its unique character, and the car’s performance is the payoff.”

To continue Dodge’s tradition of offering unique and excellent in performance vehicles that is outstanding in its value and class, auto parts companies like Car Parts Rush offers top of the line Dodge parts. The customer has a choice from a vast array of auto parts and accessories. It offers new and used Dodge body parts, body kits, performance parts, and Dodge accessories among many others.

Joe Ratzkin is an avid fan of anything automotive. This 34-year old bachelor wanted to be a mechanic when he was a kid but changed his mind and became a freelance writer and researcher instead. He is currently based in Chicago, Illinois.

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Hybrid Cars Toyota Prius


by lar

The Toyota Prius hybrid car was first introduced as a production model in Japan in 1997, and then in the US in 2000. It has taken the green motoring world by storm and is the most popular hybrid car around. Even Hollywood film stars like Cameron Diaz are getting in on the act and increasing their green credentials by owning a Toyota Prius hybrid car.

This small, though not unworkably so, symbol of automotive innovation is fast becoming the ultimate environmentally awareness fashion accessory. But the Toyota Prius hybrid car is far more than just an ecological accoutrement. It is the first and still leader in its field. The demand for this vehicle is so great that Toyota is even now trying to keep up with the orders.

The twin power units in this hybrid car comprise of a highly fuel efficient 1.5 liter 4 cylinder gas engine that produces 76 bhp. This is used mainly for powering the vehicle at higher speeds when a steady load on the engine enhances the fuel economy of the engine. This is one of the most advanced hybrid car engines around and is very economical when used in conjunction with a light foot on the gas pedal. It produces a torque figure of 82 Ib. ft at 4200 revs. The pistons in the Toyota Prius hybrid car are highly engineered to be lighter than average for an engine of this size. They also have a very low drag producing less friction and more efficient use of power. They also have vale timing that varies according to the load on the engine and allows the most economical use of the gas.

The hybrid cars electric motor is supplied with power by a battery with a 500-volt output and produces 295-lb ft at 0 rpm. The electric motor is primarily used at low speeds and acceleration and with this amount of power available it is no slouch when pulling of from the lights. But neither is it a Porsche. Don’t expect to be left behind at the lights but also don’t expect everyone else to be eating your dust. That is not what hybrid cars are about. Though that is not to say that in the future that a sports car manufacturer will not move into the hybrid cars market.

This combination of efficient gas engine and electric motors in the Toyota Prius hybrid car can produce very good fuel economy. The light-footed driver should be able to easily achieve figures of around 50 to 55 mpg around town. And up to and maybe even exceeding 60 mpg on the open road.

Although not a large hybrid car it seats 5 people comfortably enough, although when fully loaded the suspension can appear a little on the soft side. It is also no small load carrier with a usable trunk space of over 16 cubic feet, much larger than the old Prius could boast. The impressively aerodynamically efficient hybrid car shape can mean that headroom in the back of the car can be a bit low for tall passengers.

Hybrid cars have all the extras that are expected in a quality car today. GPS, keyless entry, good sound system, and special “head curtain” airbags that allow the rear seat passengers to benefit from air bag technology as well as the front. It also has a very useful computer display on the dashboard that allows you to see which engine is providing the power and how efficiently it is working. This means you can adjust your driving to get the optimum mpg from your hybrid car.

Overall the Toyota Prius is a very impressive venture by a major manufacturer into the world of hybrid cars and contains all the elements that the average driver could want in terms of fuel economy, comfort, so long as you are not a basketball player, and equipment. The new model Toyota Prius hybrid car that is soon to be available looks even better so it may be worth holding back for a while.

Larry Westfall is the owner of http://www.Asian-Daily.com

Article Submission done by: http://www.articles-submit.com
Courtesy of:Asian_daily

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Tuesday, March 21, 2006

Jaguar XJS Shows Sportsmanship


by Michelle Crimson

Famous for its luxury saloon vehicles and sports cars as well, the Jaguar brand is yet another vehicle manufacturer that keeps its aficionados and followers looking forward to the next creation that it would release on the roads and streets. Jaguar Cars is a vehicle manufacturer from Britain and with its vehicles that it has manufactured, it has kept a wide range of competitors that include brands like the BMW, the Mercedes Benz, the Porsche, the Cadillac, the Lexus, the Infiniti, and also the Lincoln.

One of the vehicles that is running under this brand is the Jaguar XJS. This is a luxury coupe and it has replaced the famous and world renowned Jaguar E Type. This was done on September of 1975. The Jaguar XJS was actually based on the Jaguar XJ saloon. It is not as sporty as most of the vehicles under the Jaguar brand. However, it still is a grand tourer and is also aerodynamic. During the development of this luxury, it was actually dubbed as the XK-F. The last of its kind was produced on April 4, 1996. In its place came the Jaguar XK8.

Upon its introduction the Jaguar XJS was equipped with a V12 engine. Along with that, the owner of the Jaguar XJS had a choice between a manual transmission or an automatic transmission although soon enough the manual option was deleted off the list of options. With this kind of machine, the Jaguar XJS is capable of reaching 60 mph in 6.9 seconds and can accelerate to 150 mph. It has been said that the Jaguar XJS has a revolutionary aluminum construction with space age technology. However, despite that fact, it still has been able to retain the elegant lines that has made Jaguar vehicles that popular.

This vehicle went into a very quick ascent to popularity when there was a television series that came up needing a vehicle. The television series was the popular “Return of the Saint”. In this series, the hero, Simon Templar who was being played by Ian Ogilvy, drives an early Jaguar XJS with the number plate ‘ST 1’. And it was during this time that miniature versions of the Jaguar XJS were crafted. These sold like hotcakes.

Jaguar Parts and Jaguar Auto Parts is the right place for new or quality used Jaguar XJS parts. Its inventory includes a large stock of accessories, air intake parts, brakes, climate control parts, clutch parts, cooling system parts, drive belts, driveshaft and axle parts, electrical parts, exhaust system parts, fuel injection parts, mechanical parts, suspension parts, and transmission parts to name a few. Jaguar Parts and Jaguar Auto Parts’ customer support staff is expert in the field of Jaguar parts and can assist you by providing product installation tips and procedures, as well as suggesting additional parts that you may need for your Jaguar.

Michelle Crimson holds a degree in business administration. She is currently working as an editor in New Orleans, Louisiana. This 32 year old mother of two is also a car racing fanatic.

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Avoiding Crime When Parking Your Car

by: Robert Young

Theft and Vandalism

- Wherever possible, provide each dwelling with its own locked garage within the property boundaries. Locked garages outside the boundaries or well-lit and visible common car parks are the next best things.

- Where private garages are not feasible, carport or driveway parking is preferable to grouped parking away from dwellings.

- As a general rule, underground or multi-story car parks should be avoided, as they are breeding grounds for vandalism and crime. If they already exist, limiting entry points and providing them with sturdy locked gates could minimize danger. Alternatively, each resident could be provided with locked gates could minimize danger. Alternatively each resident could be provided with a lockable garage in their own space, with robust, vandal-proof metal doors - garages within garages, so to speak. Or users can be provided with a secure lock or a plastic keycard, which operates electronic doors.

- Grouped car parks should be avoided in high-crime areas. If they cannot be avoided, they should be within view of some dwellings; they should be equipped with sturdy gates or tilt doors, and should never be sited near alleyways.

- Open car parks should be small and within view of dwellings and visitors' car parks should be clearly identifiable, well lit, and visible from dwellings.

Rape, Assault, Robbery

- To make car parks safer, planners should provide direct access from parking areas to the entrance of dwellings.

- Car parks should be no further than 60 meters from dwellings, and the path should be well lit and free from shrubbery.

- Visitors' car parks should be well lit, clearly identifiable, and visible from dwellings.

- Access to enclosed car parks should be limited to residents by some form of electronic entry control device if possible.

- If it is desirable to limit access to dwellings, make sure access via car parks is monitored as well.

- In high-crime areas, advanced technological surveillance methods may be needed in car parks. For example, an infrared unit is available which detects the presence of intruders - but not cats and dogs - by body heat, and automatically switches on all lights in the car park and turns them off after 15 to 20 minutes.

Stay safe! Visit http://www.urbansafetysupplies.com/ and http://www.hitechhiddencameras.com/ for all of your self defense and security item needs.

About The Author
Robert Young is the owner of Urban Safety Supplies and Hi-Tech Hidden Cameras. Stay safe! Visit http://www.urbansafetysupplies.com/ for all your security item needs. Stun guns, pepper spray, personal alarms, and more! Also visit http://www.hittechhiddencameras.com/ and see our hidden cameras, spy, and surveillance equipment.

Why OEM BMW Parts Are Important


by: Vishal Sampat

Ever thought of racing around Nordschleife, the legendary Nürburgring Race Track, in your BMW? This race track has been rated by Jackie Stewart (well known among racing enthusiasts) as the “Greatest & most challenging race circuit in the world”.

In your BMW, it’s possible to clock a sub-10 minute lap on this legendary race track, because these cars love having other cars hear the exhaust roar as they lap them. Cutting edge automobile engineering and innovative design, together with superior handling and best-in class performance, help you, the driver, feel one with your car.

BMW engineers design their cars, knowing full well that if the car does not provide greater comfort, safety, drive quality, and overall exhilaration, then it just isn’t a BMW. However, your car must be in optimum condition to take on the track. OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts always help. This article will walk you through pointers, to help keep your car in top condition.

In order to preserve the unique qualities that define the BMW, it is extremely important that you pay close attention when replacing parts of your car, or investing in add-ons for your car. OEM BMW parts go a long way in preserving everything that is unique about the BMW.

There is a perception that most carmakers do not manufacture their own OEM parts, they use to build their automobiles. They just outsource manufacturing to other independent companies, and put them in their own boxes. This is not entirely true. Carmakers do leverage the skills of independent companies to design individual parts. This helps carmakers build upon domain skills acquired by independent companies, designing specific automobile parts over a period of time, to improve niche car functionalities. Often manufacturing processes of a particular part, may be outsourced, along with stringent quality guidelines. Most OEM parts are a guarantee of very high quality, and are the perfect substitute for a similar worn out part of your car.

Robert Bosch Company, Sachs-Boge (now part of ZF Trading North America's group of companies), ATE , Daikin, Adler, Nissin, NTP, Zimmerman, Balo, Brembo, Behr, Textar, Jurid, PBR, Pagid, Ansa, Bosal, Bilstein etc are some of the well known OEM equipment manufacturers. A huge advantage investing in OEM spare parts is that some of them come with an extended warranty (usually 12 months or longer), while others come with a lifetime warranty.

So go ahead and invest in OEM BMW parts like Air Filters, Alternators, Belts, Exhaust, Radiator, etc and experience the exhilaration, that is your BMW.

About The Author
Vishal Sampat is an internet marketing consultant and offers search engine marketing solutions to various corporates around the world. Through this article, he introduces one to the concept of OEM parts and helps one understand the importance of replacing worn out parts with OEM BMW Parts. Check out the OEM parts inventory on http://www.alloemautoparts.com/ to get the best prices online.

Monday, March 13, 2006

Jaguar XK 140: Filling the Spot Between the 120 and the 150


by Michelle Crimson

The Jaguar XK 140 has been produced starting from 1954 up until 1957, thus it has lived for only three years. It is a sports car and it holds two doors. This vehicle model from Jaguar arrived on the scene so as to replace the highly successful Jaguar XK 120. The Jaguar XK 140 actually exuded a much heavier appearance than the Jaguar XK 120. It had a wider front grille as well as substantial bumpers in its front and rear. The Jaguar XK 140 made its way to public knowledge during its debut at the 1954 motor show. It was then considered to be an evolution of the Jaguar XK 120.

Looking at its power source, the Jaguar XK 140 has a more powerful engine than the Jaguar XK 120. The engine of the former is a 190 bhp engine. It also holds a rack and pinion steering plus an optional Special Equipment pack that includes wire wheels as well as more power that is actually some 210 bhp. The production for the Jaguar XK 140 ended after three years starting from its production when the newer Jaguar XK 150 arrived at the scene.

The body styles that were available for the Jaguar XK 120 were also made available for the Jaguar XK 140. Since the Jaguar XK 140 is a sports car, the body styles made available for the consumers included the roadster that was a two seater style with side screens, a detachable windshield, and a hood. There also was the Drop Head Coupe, which was also known as the DHC. It had a fixed windshield, wind up windows, 2 + 2 seating, and an attached hood. The last body style for the Jaguar XK 140 was the Fixed Head Coupe. This was also called the FHC. It held a 2 + 2 seating, along with some wind up windows. Like the Jaguar XK 120, the Jaguar XK 149 body styles FHC and DHC still continues to hold dashboards and door cappings covered in walnut wood. The roadster, on the other hand, has a leather covered dash, padding on the top of its doors, and side screens for weather protection. The Jaguar XK 140 was also made available with different color choices for its exterior. The list of colors included suede green, pastel green, British racing green, pacific blue, pastel blue, birch gray, battleship gray, lavender gray, dove gray, pearl gray, red, maroon, cream, and black.

Jaguar Parts and Jaguar Auto Parts has in its stock the highest quality Jaguar XK140 parts and accessories that will retain the Jaguar’s driving dynamics, performance, technology, and design as well. Excellence is synonymous to service for all of Jaguar Parts and Jaguar Auto Parts’ customer service staff in dealing with all auto parts inquiries.


Michelle Crimson holds a degree in business administration. She is currently working as an editor in New Orleans, Louisiana. This 32 year old mother of two is also a car racing fanatic.


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2006 Chevy Corvette: Promises of Amazement


by Joe Ratzkin

The 2006 Chevy Corvette comes as a well balanced package in a vehicle. It has set refinement in its interior and stance as well as exuding the modern sports car feel. For the past years, the Chevy Corvette has consequently received and bagged the Car of the Year award. Starting out as rumors, the 2006 Chevy Corvette has certainly made sure that it would live and outlive the gossip running about. General Motors has made a statement that the 2006 Chevy Corvette is quickest and fastest car that the company has ever produced.

This vehicle comes with sophistication and is a high-performance machine. In many ways, the Chevy Corvette shows off its well-mannered and simply ride dynamics as well as an ultra-slick powertrain performance. Its interior is very much made from quality materials that provides a pleasant and comforting experience for those who would be riding in it. To increase down force, the Chevy Corvette will have a rear lip added to it and will also exhibit a more rounded trailing edge.

This new car has certainly benefited from its advanced hydro forming frame-rail process that was first introduced to the Chevy C5. The adding in and mounting of Magne Ride shock absorbers has proven to be an advantage for it has provided the 2006 Chevy Corvette an active handling as well as an innovative ride system. This vehicle also bears the Chevy C6 powertrain as well as other technologies that are top in its class. The vehicle’s engine has the capacity and capability to make 500 horsepower at around 6,200 rpm. Optional is the 7.0 liter LS7 V8 engine that is hand built.

This new vehicle would also sport several color schemes that would include white, red, and gold. As for the 2006 Chevy Corvette’s exterior, it will boast a more daring look that will reflect General Motor’s willingness to accept risks when it comes to style and design. The 2006 Chevy Corvette will combine soft curves with machined edges. It will also show off its bold aesthetic design as well as its muscular form and shape from its chiseled front, muscular fenders and flares to its street dominating attitude. The vehicle will hold a full aluminum chassis, large brakes, carbon fiber front fenders and a magnesium engine cradle as well as a removable roof panel.

As for the 2006 Chevy Corvette’s styling, the vehicle will show off great differences to its predecessors. The front end will receive a revised larger air inlet. Also added in would be a function hood scoop, new side vents, a rear lip spoiler and very unique wheels. The vehicle also lost its power passenger seat along with the electric seat bolsters. By eliminating these, the 2006 Chevy Corvette would be saving much on weight. However, what comes as standard are dual zone air conditioning, leather upholstery made in two tones, and a head up display system. Options for this vehicle include a Bose stereo, side impact airbags, a navigation system, and polished wheels.

For the original and best car on the market, nothing is befitting than the excellently crafted Chevy Corvette parts and Chevy parts at Car Parts Rush. This online store has in its stock the highest quality Chevy auto parts that will retain the Chevy’s driving dynamics coupled up with high technology and amazing design. Customers and visitors can simply browse at Car Parts Rush’s website and they can understand why customers and Chevy enthusiasts keep coming back to Car Parts Rush for their auto body parts. Aside from that, Car Parts Rush also takes care of a the task that it has given itself – providing loyalty to its customers along with providing excellent products and unequalled service.

Joe Ratzkin is an avid fan of anything automotive. This 34-year old bachelor wanted to be a mechanic when he was a kid but changed his mind and became a freelance writer and researcher instead. He is currently based in Chicago, Illinois.

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