Holiday travel season approaches; is your car ready?

Steven Cole Smith/ The Orlando Sentinel

Orlando, Fla. —Rennie Bryant has seen it all before: Since founding Redline Performance, an auto repair facility in Pompano Beach, Fla., more than 35 years ago, he's used to hearing last-minute requests from customers who are heading out of town on a holiday trip.
They're looking for a quick, last-minute checkup to make sure their car, truck, SUV or minivan is up to the trip. And sometimes, when Bryant asks when they plan to leave, the answer is, "This afternoon."
Of course, that is probably too late. The holiday season will be here before you, and your car, know it. Holiday travel is stressful enough, and an ill-prepared vehicle can not only jeopardize your trip but the safety of you and your passengers. And even in the best case, on-the-road repairs are seldom cheap or convenient.
There's a lot that shade-tree mechanics can do, but Bryant suggests that to really check the car out, you need to put the vehicle on a lift, and few of us have access to one. Underneath, Bryant said that while modern vehicles don't need conventional lubrication jobs, you need to check CV joint boots — rubber enclosures that surround constant-velocity joints on front and all-wheel-drive vehicles that connect the engine to the wheels — for cracks that can let lubrication out, dirt and water in.
It's also much easier to check for leaks from underneath. You can catch small problems before they turn into big ones. Brakes and brake lines should be inspected, as well as the condition of the exhaust system.
"It's easier to check tires, too," Bryant says, as you can rotate the tire and check all the tread for cuts, unusual wear or nails and other puncture-causing objects.
Once the car is back on the ground, Bryant checks the spare tire. "No one ever thinks to look at it and check the pressure until it's too late," he says. "Those little temporary spare tires tend to lose air quickly."
Under the hood, Bryant checks the age, level and condition of the oil, the transmission fluid and the brake fluid. "And, of course, the antifreeze in the radiator."
Also worth a look: Belts and hoses; fuel, oil and air filters (including the often-overlooked cabin air filters many modern vehicles have), and windshield washer fluid, as well as the condition of the wipers. When was the last time you checked to make sure all your exterior lights work? A pre-holiday trip checkup is a good time.
Finally, don't forget your own comfort on a trip. A good interior cleaning, including the glass, will make the trip more pleasant — no car ever comes back from a holiday trip cleaner than it was when you left.


From The Detroit News: http://detnews.com/article/20111113/AUTO01/111130303/Holiday-travel-season-approaches--is-your-car-ready?#ixzz1dh1EAAyL

More Cities Turn Off Red-Light Cameras: Is It A Trend?

Cameras: Is It A Trend?

       

Red-light camera

Traffic cameras were once heralded as a way of making streets safer and lightening the loads of thinly stretched police departments, but now, the tide seems to be turning -- even against the once-popular red-light camera. Are voters pushing back on Big Brother? And if so, will they be successful?
Last night, Albuquerque, New Mexico became the latest city to can its red-light camera program. Others like Houston, Texas and Los Angeles, California did so earlier this year.
But among much of the public, support for red-light cameras remains strong. In New Jersey, 71% of voters think they're a great idea, and a recent study from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety found similar support in 14 cities across the U.S. In fact, the National Coalition for Safer Roads says that red-light cameras are important for public safety: after a legal challenge forced Albuquerque to turn off its red-light cams earlier this year, the number of red-light runners and speeders surged 600%.
OUR TAKE
The public's divided opinions on red-light cams come down to the competing concerns of safety and privacy. On the one hand, citizens clearly like the idea of making streets safer, particularly for children. (In New Jersey, public support for red-light cams was strongest in school zones.)
On the other hand, citizens don't like the idea of being watched. Yes, people seem to understand that -- just like the noisy tree falling in the forest -- running a red light is still a crime, even if there's no police officer around to see it. But as a recent article in the Wall Street Journal points out, cameras often catch infractions so minor that no police officer would even bother to write them up. And of course, with no officer present, there's no way to explain any extenuating circumstances that might've gotten a driver out of the ticket in the first place.
But the biggest beef that citizens seem to have with red-light cams is that they're typically run by for-profit corporations. Cities outsource camera installation and enforcement to those companies, and in turn, the companies receive a percentage of the fines those cameras bring in. The general sentiment seems to be that cam systems are purely designed to drive revenue, and the corporations that install them are outsiders, profiting from hardworking locals. And worse, they're making those profits from the comfort of their offices, without putting in the same hard work that the city's police officers do.
Camera companies say that business is booming, so LA, Houston, and Albuquerque may be just blips on the radar -- the last throes of a public concerned about new technology. (Remember the hue and cry about making online payments a decade ago? How times change.) Then again, those cities could be at the leading edge of a new wave of anti-cam sentiment.
We're curious to know your own feelings about traffic cameras -- both speed cams and red-light cams -- and how they're being used in your hometown. Feel free to drop us a line, or leave a note in the comments below.
By Richard Read

Richard Read

ReporterBIO

Richard Read is a car writer, covering marketing, technology, social media, and other auto industry topics for High Gear Media. With a background in... More

Mitsubishi unveils global small car, near-production plug-in hybrid crossover

The PX-MiEV II is a two-motor plug-in hybrid system running on a lithium ion battery and a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder gasoline engine.

Hans Greimel
Automotive News -- November 9, 2011 - 8:00 am ET

TOKYO -- Mitsubishi Motors Corp. will unveil a close-to-market version of a plug-in hybrid crossover due next year and its new global small car at this month's Tokyo Motor Show.

The PX-MiEV II hints strongly at the hybrid version of the Outlander crossover that Mitsubishi plans to launch in the fiscal year ending March 31, 2013. That vehicle is the next step in the transformation of Mitsubishi's lineup with an assortment of electrified drivetrains.
The PX-MiEV II is a two-motor plug-in hybrid system running on a lithium ion battery and a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder gasoline engine. One motor powers the front wheels, the other the rear ones.
Mitsubishi is targeting fuel economy of 60 kilometers per liter (140 mpg) under Japan's testing cycle, which is not comparable to the U.S. or European fuel-economy measures, and says the vehicle can cruise 31 miles in electric-only mode.
Another feature of the drivetrain is that it can operate in either series or parallel hybrid mode.
At lower speeds or when the battery is low, it can work as a series with the engine acting as a generator to recharge the battery, but not to power the wheels. At higher speeds or when the battery is topped up, it acts as a parallel hybrid, with the engine recharging the battery and moving the wheels.
Under the floorboards is a lithium ion battery with about the same capacity as the i electric vehicle that goes on sale in the United States this month. But because the PX-MiEV II is heavier and equipped with all-wheel drive, it doesn't achieve the i's electric-only driving distance.
The Mitsubishi i has an EPA-rated driving range of 62 miles on a full charge.

The Mirage relies on an improved engine with idle-stop technology, weight loss and better aerodynamics to boost its fuel economy. The global small car enters production in Thailand next year and is bound for the United States as early as 2013. Mitsubishi has christened it the Mirage, reviving a subcompact nameplate that was dropped in the early 2000s. The hatchback replaces the Colt, which is being phased out. Mitsubishi is shooting for fuel economy of 30 70 mpg and a sticker price around 1 million yen ($12,800). The Mirage relies on an improved engine with idle-stop technology, weight loss and better aerodynamics to boost its fuel economy. It is 10 percent lighter than the Colt. It is powered by a 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine mated to a continuously variable transmission. Mitsubishi plans to start manufacturing the Mirage at a new factory in Thailand in March. But the massive flooding in that country may push back the start of production.

You can reach Hans Greimel at hgreimel@crain.com.

Honda's new Asimo robot can act on its own

Honda has spruced up its humanoid robot, Asimo, giving it the ability to move without being controlled by an operator.

The all-new ASIMO can continue moving without being controlled by an operator, and has significantly improved intelligence and the physical ability to adapt to situations.

CAPTION

By Honda, Wieck

Asimo has been the face of Honda, as you can see from that British commercial, above. It shows the potential for robot technology.

Now, the robot can not only move on its own, but it's been given more intelligence and a greater capability to cope with different situations. "With significantly improved intelligence and the physical ability to adapt to situations, Asimo took another step closer to practical use in an office or a public space where many people come and go," Honda says in a statement.
Now it can:

• Maintain its posture by putting out its leg in an instant.
• Comprehend the movements of people around it using multiple sensors and estimate the changes that are taking place.
• Use its new capability to make predictions from gathered information and autonomously determine the next behavior without being controlled by an operator.

The Top Five Best Selling Vehicles to Ever Grace Planet Earth

Think about this for a second. The world welcomed its seven billionth human early Wednesday morning, just 12 short years after surpassing the six billion mark. Danica May Camacho of the Philippines came into the world bringing with her the reinforced realization there are A LOT of people on this planet. It’s estimated that by 2025 there will be eight billion people on earth and 10 billion by 2083.
With the world’s population growing at an exponential rate, natural resources like food and energy are expected to become strained. That also translates to a myriad of people who need transportation whether it’s personal or public. When the internal combustion engine was first installed into a vehicle by German engine and car designer Karl Benz way back in 1885, there were less than 1000 gas-powered vehicles on the road. Fast forward to the current day and there are around 750 million gas-powered vehicles in the world. It’s been speculated that if the current trend continues, that number will double over the next 30 years. In honor of Danica May Camacho and every other person on earth here is a list of the top five best selling vehicles still in production today.

5. Honda Civic (1972- ) 17,730,000+

The Civic was first introduced back in 1972 for the 1973 model year and could be configured as a two-door model with a three-door hatchback version coming along a few months later. Early on luxury premiums such as an AM radio, heat, two speed wipers, and painted steel wheels came standard. Later on options like air conditioning, power windows and locks, and a six-speed manual transmission were added. The Civic has come a long way from the its early notoriety for rusting in three years or less to becoming one of the most familiar nameplates on the planet.

4. Volkswagen Beetle (1938- ) 22,300,000+

Perhaps one of the most iconic vehicles of all time, the Beetle is known for its unmistakable exterior styling cues. The “Bug,” as it’s affectionately known, was the go-to choice for cruising to the beach back in the day. However, while rusted-out floorboards weren’t a standard feature they were a chronic problem as time passed. The Type 1 body style halted world-wide production in June of 2003 as the final Bug rolled off the production line. When the dust settled 21,529,464 Beetles has been produced over an unprecedented 58-year production run. The Golf-based “New Beetle” was introduced in 1997 as the demand for Type 1′s began to dwindle.

3. Volkswagen Golf (1974- ) 25,000,000+

The early 1970′s were a busy time for Volkswagen. After the introduction of the enhanced Super Beetle in 1972 the Golf followed two years later, and called the Rabbit here in the U.S. While the Golf was slated to be a long-term replacement for the Beetle, both of Volkswagen’s compacts lived simultaneously for decades. The Golf GTI “hot hatch” variant showed up a few years later adding a racing flair to the front-wheel drive hatchback. The first genertation was phased out in 1983, and over the years the Golf has gone through five more generations. The Golf checks in at number three on our list, as it is Volkswagen’s best-selling model with over 25 million assembled by 2007.

2. Ford F-Series (1948- ) 30,000,000+

Touted as the best-selling truck of all-time the Ford F-Series stops at number two on our list. The full-size truck has been available to the public for decades, and has been the best-selling truck for 34 years running. The first-generation F-Series, known as the Ford Bonus-Built, went on sale in 1948 with optional “luxuries” such as “See-Clear” windshield washer fluid, a passenger-side windshield wiper, sun visor, and passenger-side tail light. Today’s F-150 is more sophisticated, to say the least, with optional leather, a navigation system, and an advanced 3.5-liter turbocharged V-6 engine.

1. Toyota Corolla (1966- ) 35,000,000+

Here it is: The bestselling car of all time is the Toyota Corolla. The subcompact and compact Corolla was first introduced in 1966 but it wasn’t until 1997 when it earned the title of bestselling car in the world. Spread it out over a half-century, and that equals one Corolla sold every 40 seconds on average. Early on, the Corolla was rear-wheel drive, but in the mid-80s it switched to front-wheel drive and never looked back. The (current) tenth generation Corolla was introduced back in 2006 and sales shot to an all-time high with 387,388 units sold.
So there it is, the top five most sold vehicles of all-time. Have you ever driven one of these vehicles mentioned above and if so do you have a favorite? Tell us about it in the comment section below.

Trevor Dorchies on November 4 2011 5:33 PM

Read more: http://blogs.automotive.com/the-top-five-best-selling-vehicles-to-ever-grace-planet-earth-64257.html#ixzz1d81EWbkH

For Hackers, There's A Tempting New Target: Your Car

Guest post written by Bart Giordano

Bart Giordano is director, wireless product marketing, at Marvell.

Bart Giordano: Don't hack my ride.

Outside the living room, automobiles have become the epicenter of multimedia activity for consumers. From Cadillac to Audi, all the major automotive players are getting in the game, offering movies on integrated LCD screens, enabling passengers to surf the Web or simply allowing access to an address book on the car’s head unit. A recent study by In-Stat forecasts that more than 35 million in-vehicle infotainment systems are expected to ship in 2015.

With all the hype around these innovations, however, one extremely important topic – security – is consistently overlooked.

While car manufacturers tout heightened safety capabilities made possible via Wi-Fi, such as emergency calls automatically placed as the airbags deploy, carmakers fail to mention increased security risks that go along with wireless access to automotive systems. While cables serve as secure communications links to critical systems, wireless connections are susceptible to hackers, which opens the door to myriad potential problems. To manufacture cars that meet strict security requirements, automotive companies must deliver in-vehicle wireless security on par with that offered by wired systems.

As the popularity of wireless offerings in cars continues to grow, it will be imperative that consumers arm themselves with basic knowledge about these security concerns. To make it easy, here are three questions consumers should ask while shopping for a Wi-Fi enabled car (and three answers they should hear) to ensure secure connectivity.

• How do I know that any data transferred from my smartphone to my in-vehicle infotainment system arrives safely and securely?

Today, several carmakers allow passengers to transfer phone numbers, email addresses and other information from mobile devices to hardware devices installed in their cars. To ensure that this data is not susceptible to hackers, carmakers must guarantee that the consumer’s data is encrypted using a highly secure encryption standard such as the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), which has been adopted by the U.S. government and is used worldwide.

• Since car manufacturers offer different in-vehicle Wi-Fi offerings, are there any standard wireless protocols my car should be compatible with?

While this issue might not be top-of-mind for the typical consumer, they should seek a car that adheres to the industry’s most important and universally recognized wireless protocols, which not only provides enhanced connectivity, but also ensures additional security. Wi-Fi Direct is a industry standard protocol that provides an easy to use way to securely connect Wi-Fi-enabled devices to the automobile. Similarly, the upcoming Wi-Fi Display is designed for transmitting video over a Wi-Fi link in a secure manner.

• As vehicle-to-vehicle wireless communication capabilities expand (e.g., social networking between cars, locating and reserving charging locations for electric and plug-in hybrids), how can I be sure that my car is secure from outside interference?

Automakers are already laying out their plans for next-generation vehicles. In the coming years, we’ll see cars transforming into highly customized personal assistants, connecting the car to his or her home and computer systems as well as other vehicles. This interaction between multiple vehicles and locations also heightens the need for tight security. To support these connections, carmakers need to create multiple independent wireless networks. Separating and securing wireless networks prevents inadvertent interference with in-vehicle communications systems, as well as deliberate malicious intrusions to an automobile’s key safety features.

During the next five years, consumers will experience significant advancements in wireless automotive systems. Building consumer awareness about technologies associated with this industry will be essential in guaranteeing security on the mobile highway.

The most-stolen new car in 2009. NHTSA releases car theft lists

Audi S8 has highest rate, but Camry leads in sheer numbers

Washington —The Audi S8 topped the government's list of highest theft rates among new cars in 2009. And the Toyota Camry, which was 2009's best-selling car, was the most-stolen new car that year.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration tracked the theft rate among all new 2009 passenger vehicles stolen in 2009, and just released its report.
The Audi S8 had the highest theft rate: 8.81 thefts per 1,000 vehicles produced. Just two out of 227 cars produced were stolen.
Ford Motor Co.'s Shelby GT Mustang had the second highest theft rate with 8.61 vehicles per 1,000 stolen; five out of 581 total cars were stolen.
Rounding out the top five: BMW M5 (7.58 per 1,000), Dodge Charger (6.47 per 1,000) and Honda S2000 (5.60 per 1,000).
In sixth was the Mitsubishi Galant (5.11), followed by the Chrysler 300 (4.57), Infiniti M35/M45 (4.32), Cadillac STS (4.28) and Mercedes CL-Class (3.91).
The report doesn't track light trucks, which include most SUVs, pickups and minivans. The Cadillac Escalade has typically topped the overall list of most-stolen vehicles, according to surveys.
NHTSA said the overall theft rate declined to 1.33 per 1,000. It was down 21.3 percent from 2008's 1.69 per 1,000. "The agency believes that the theft rate reduction could be the result of several factors including the increased use of standard antitheft devices, vehicle parts marking, increased and improved prosecution efforts by law enforcement organizations and increased public awareness," NHTSA said.
Chrysler had seven vehicles in the top 20 theft rates. In addition to the Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300, the carmaker's offerings in the top 20 included Chrysler's Sebring, Sebring Convertible and PT Cruiser, and the Dodge Avenger and Dodge Caliber.
GM had four vehicles in the top 20. In addition to the Cadillac STS, the list included the Pontiac G5 and G6 and Chevrolet Impala.
The Toyota Camry, which was 2009's best-selling car, was the most-stolen vehicle in overall numbers at 781, but it ranked 50th with a 1.74 per 1,000 theft rate, followed by the Toyota Corolla at 51st with 632 stolen.
The lowest theft rate among new cars that had at least one theft? The now-discontinued Mercury Mariner with a 0.08 per 1,000 theft rate, or two out of 25,682.
dshepardson@detnews.com
David Shepardson/ Detroit News Washington Bureau

From The Detroit News: http://detnews.com/article/20111104/AUTO01/111040355/NHTSA-releases-car-theft-lists#ixzz1cm5X5HI2

As Car Sales Increase, Bargains Will Likely Be Harder To Find

Thanks in part to record incentives, car sales in the United States are up, but that brings with it both good news and bad news. First the good news: consumers don’t spend money on things like automobiles unless they have confidence in the economy, which could mean that the worst of the recession is behind us.

Now the bad news: more car sales mean less incentives and discounts from manufacturers, especially since the excess inventory that’s plagued the industry in recent years has been all but eliminated.

Japanese manufacturers are still recovering from the March disasters in Japan, so inventory levels at most Japanese brands are just beginning to normalize. Flooding in Thailand has disrupted production of certain Japanese car brands (most notably Honda), but we’re still a month or so away from seeing this in dealer showrooms.

With foreign cars in short supply and domestic quality on the rise, consumers embraced U.S. automakers this year, lowering inventory levels at GM, Ford and Chrysler dealerships. Smartmoney tells us that Ford has reduced available incentives by 13 percent in October, and it’s cutting rebates even further in November.

Thanks to record low interest rates, buyers with exceptional credit can still find good deals on auto financing, and some manufacturers (like Audi, for example) are actively promoting low interest financing.

If you’re in the market for a new car, it may pay to put off a buying decision until December. Inventory levels aren’t likely to improve, but manufacturers may be more inclined to deal in order to make year-end targets.

By Kurt Ernst

ContributorBIO

                       

About Kurt Ernst

Kurt has been fascinated by anything with wheels and a motor for a long time. Growing up, he spent his spare time turning wrenches and pumping gas in the family garage, back when hand tools were used to tune cars. After college, he spent a year racing cars, only to learn that he was neither fast enough to get rich nor rich enough to get fast. These days, he spends his time as an automotive writer and a self proclaimed "Cro-Magnon Renaissance Man".

 

The 100 Greatest Movie and TV Cars of All Time

Hollywood's Real Superstars

By John Pearley Huffman, Bumblebee | Published Oct 31, 2011

Our love of cars started right here. Movie and TV cars are literally the stuff of dreams. We're all let into theaters and plopped in front of the tube long before we're issued driver licenses.
Then we all dream of doing reverse 180s like Jim Rockford escaping thugs, or fleeing the po-po in a Shelby Mustang named Eleanor. We all want a best friend like KITT. And every orange Dodge Charger can fly, right?
These are the 100 movie and TV cars that built that passion.

100. The Monkees 1966 Pontiac GTO: Dean Jeffries turns a GTO into a massive T-Bucket with a blown engine. The TV show ran two seasons between 1966 and 1968.
99. Cannonball 1970 Pontiac Trans Am: Pure mayhem from the Death Race 2000 director. Based on the Cannonball race, it beat The Gumball Rally into theaters by a month in 1976.
98. Easy Rider Captain America Harley-Davidson: The ultimate biker road trip movie. Made in 1969. Made Peter Fonda, Dennis Hopper, Jack Nicholson, and they're Harley's icons.
97. Get Smart's 1965 Sunbeam Tiger: The spy car for the spy who isn't James Bond. Driven for seasons one and two (1965-'67), then replaced by a VW Karmann Ghia.
96. Diamonds Are Forever 1971 Ford Mustang Mach 1: James Bond rips Vegas apart in a great chase from 1971. Goes into an alley up on its right wheels, comes out on its left. So what.
95. The Saint 1962 Volvo P1800: From 1962-'69 Simon Templar (Roger Moore) showed up for no apparent reason in his white, British-built Volvo to help those in distress.
94. Days of Thunder 1990 #46 City Chevrolet Lumina: The movie that launched NASCAR's most successful decade. It was Cole Trickle's (Tom Cruise) Lumina that made good ol' boys cool.
93. Viva Las Vegas 1962 Elva Mk. VI: In Elvis Presley's best movie (released in 1964) he drove this lay-down, midengine Elva to victory in a wildly destructive race.
92. The Thomas Crown Affair 1968 Shelby Mustang GT500: Seen for a fleeting moment in this 1999 remake. A Shelby GT500 convertible modified for off-road work. One of a kind. Wicked.
91. The Prisoner 1967 Lotus 7 Series II: "Number Six" is seen driving this Lotus before his deportation to the island in Patrick McGoohan's 1967 British cult classic.

90. Scooby-Doo 1969 Mystery Machine Van: Without the Mystery Machine, Fred, Daphne, Velma, Scooby and Shaggy go nowhere. They've been going since 1969. That's 42 years.
89. Speed Racer 1966 Mach 5: The Mach 5 was the first truly awesome Japanese car. The 52 original episodes ran between 1966 and 1968. Over time, they've gotten no better.
88. Hooper 1978 Pontiac Trans Am: Unlike Burt's other Trans Am exploits, this Pontiac is red, rocket-propelled and drives under falling smokestacks. Car is cool, but the rocket car gorge jump is a joke.
87. Green Hornet 1966 Black Beauty Imperial: Dean Jeffries modified two Imperials as the Hornet's ride in this short-lived 1966 TV series. Perfect with Bruce Lee as the driver. Also the one thing the 2011 movie got right.
86. Columbo 1959 Peugeot 403 Convertible: The perfectly rumpled car for rumpled Lieutenant Columbo (Peter Falk). For 69 episodes from 1971 through 2003, this is what he drove.
85. Ghostbusters 1959 Cadillac Ecto-1: Who you gonna call in the 1984 film? The Ghostbusters showed up in this modified Miller-Meteor Futura ambulance.
84. The Munsters 1964 Munster Coach: George Barris' shop used three Model T bodies and a 289 Ford V8 to construct this for the TV series that ran from 1964-'66.
83. The Munsters 1965 Drag-U-La: Built at George Barris' shop by Korky Korkes, the coffin-based Drag-U-La first appeared in the 1965 episode "Hot Rod Herman."
82. Animal House 1964 Lincoln Continental Deathmobile: Flounder's brother's car in the 1978 classic comedy. Becomes the Deathmobile in the film's climax. Road trip!
81. Fireball 500 1966 Plymouth Barracuda: In this 1966 film, Frankie Avalon used this Barris custom to tow Richard Petty's stock car. It was a Popular AMT model kit.

80. Miami Vice 1986 Ferrari Testarossa: Ferrari didn't like the black Daytona replica the 1984-'89 NBC series was using, so it provided two white Testarossas for Season Three.
79. Against All Odds 1984 Porsche 911 SC: This car and a Ferrari 308 GTSi race on L.A.'s Sunset Boulevard in an underrated 1984 film. Stunt coordinator Gary Davis doubled Jeff Bridges.
78. Against All Odds 1984 Ferrari 308 GTSi: In this great race action, the legendary stunt driver Carey Loftin drove the Ferrari. He was 68 years old at the time.
77. 48 Hrs. 1964 Cadillac DeVille: This is the 1982 movie that made Eddie Murphy a star. But it's the ratty Caddy that Nick Nolte drove that everyone remembers.
76. Death Race 2000 1975 Shala-Vette: Dick Dean's VW-based kit twisted by Dean himself and Dean Jeffries for "Frankenstein." 1975's Death Race 2000 is the best Death Race.
75. Stingray 1965 Chevrolet Corvette: For two seasons (1985-'87) on NBC, if you needed help you called Nick Mancuso as "Ray" and he showed up in a black '65 Corvette Coupe.
74. Spenser: For Hire 1966 Ford Mustang GT: Underrated detective series ran for three seasons and four movies. Starred Robert Urich and a green fastback Mustang from 1985-'88.
73. Vega$ 1957 Ford Thunderbird: In this series Robert Urich played Dan Tanna, a Las Vegas detective who lived at the Desert Inn and drove a classic T-Bird from 1978-'81.
72. McQ 1973 Pontiac Trans Am SD455: One of the few cars John Wayne drove in a film. This green beast tours Seattle and is ultimately crushed in an alley.
71. Bad Boys 1993 Porsche 911 Turbo 3.6: Director Michael Bay used his own car as the lead vehicle in this 1995 movie. Wound up making Will Smith and Martin Lawrence movie stars.

70. Cars Lightning McQueen: Cars, released in 2006, isn't Pixar's best, but it has sold the most toys. Lightning McQueen is a cuddly version of a stock car.
69. Batman Begins 2005 Tumbler: The latest Batmobile is an amazing prop built for this 2005 film. Yes, it really drives even if it doesn't leap across buildings and rivers.
68. Laurel & Hardy 1908 Model T: The great movie duo practically invented the movie gag car with a series of Model Ts used in their films between 1919 and 1945.
67. Two-Lane Blacktop 1970 Pontiac GTO Judge: This 1971 movie doesn't make much sense if you think about it. So don't think and appreciate the classic Pontiac muscle driven by Warren Oates.
66. Tucker: The Man and His Dream 1948 Tucker Torpedo: Great 1988 Francis Ford Coppola movie all about cars. Fully 21 of the 47 surviving Torpedoes were used in filming.
65. Cobra 1950 Mercury: Eddie Paul reportedly built four '50 Mercs for this 1986 Sylvester Stallone movie. The movie is lousy, but the car is outstanding.
64. American Graffiti 1958 Chevrolet Impala: It's Steve's car, but it's Terry the Toad who gets this ride in George Lucas' 1973 film about one summer night in 1962.
63. Rain Man 1949 Buick Roadmaster: The three stars of this 1988 drama are Dustin Hoffman, Tom Cruise and this big Buick convertible. Ten minutes to Wapner.
62. The Italian Job 1968 Mini Coopers: Britain's greatest heist involves stealing gold through a traffic jam under and over Turin, Italy. Michael Caine was at his peak in 1969.
61. Casino Royale 2007 Aston Martin DBS: Few gadgets, but James Bond's DBS (a redressed DB9) performs a spectacular seven barrel rolls meeting its demise in the 2006 film.

60. The Living Daylights 1987 Aston Martin V8 Vantage: "Winterized" by Q into a hardtop, 007's Aston features missiles, skis and a rocket engine in the 1987 film.
59. Planes, Trains and Automobiles 1986 Chrysler Town & Country: The misery of travel exacerbated by renting a K-Car convertible in this 1987 film. It's eventually smashed between two semis and burns.
58. You Only Live Twice 1967 Toyota 2000GT Convertible: Not driven by Bond, but by Aki, a beautiful Japanese spy. Toyota never offered the 2000GT as a drop top. Two were made for the 1967 film.
57. Rebel Without a Cause 1949 Mercury: James Dean's ride in this 1955 drama of teen angst and delinquency. Released a month after Dean's death while driving a Porsche.
56. Miami Vice 1972 Ferrari Daytona Replica: It's a rebodied C3 Corvette. So what. This black car and Phil Collins' "In the Air Tonight" made the show a hit in 1984.
55. Transformers 1976 Chevrolet Camaro "Bumblebee": Sure, Bumblebee became a 2010 Camaro in this 2007 megahit. But really, he was better off as the clapped-out '76 on Cragars.
54. Christine 1958 Plymouth Fury: It's a Mopar, so of course it's evil. John Carpenter's 1983 film is rumored to have destroyed more than 20 '58 Plymouths depicting Christine.
53. White Lightning 1971 Ford LTD: The 1973 film that was the prototype for Smokey and the Bandit. A stripped LTD sedan with a 429, a bench seat and four-speed is always cool.
52. Fast Five 1969 Nissan Skyline GT-R: This gorgeous, worn-down car does nothing but drive through Rio and park. And with that alone, it steals the 2011 movie.
51. Iron Man 2008 Audi R8: Product placement or not, it's the perfect car for genius Tony Stark (Robert Downey) to drive in this huge 2008 superhero hit.

50. Simon & Simon 1979 Dodge Power Wagon: From 1981-'89, this red pickup was detective Rick Simon's intimidating ride. All dull paint and big bumper.
49. 2 Fast 2 Furious 1998 Nissan Skyline GT-R: Forgive the neon lighting; it was 2003. The R34 is the best 2F2F car. The on-screen R34s ran with disconnected front differentials for drifting.
48. Better Off Dead 1967 Camaro: In this 1985 John Cusack film, it was the black Camaro that spoke the international language of love.
47. Le Mans 1970 Porsche 911S: In Steve McQueen's 1971 racing epic, the Porsche his character drives in the film's opening scenes is this 911S. It recently sold for $1.37 million.
46. The Fast and the Furious 1993 Toyota Supra Turbo: It beats a Ferrari on PCH. Then chases a motorcycle. And is given away to Vin Diesel at the end of this 2001 film.
45. Hollywood Knights 1957 Chevrolet: Popular Hot Rodding's then supercharged "Project X" is driven by Tony Danza in this 1980 film. The always yellow '57 was recently rebuilt by GM Performance.
44. Thunder Road 1950 Ford: Robert Mitchum's 1958 moonshine drama features this hot-rodded '50. It runs from the Feds, who have a '57 Chevy that grabs bumpers.
43. Risky Business 1981 Porsche 928: Four 928s were used in filming and two more in post-production. The 1983 movie made Tom Cruise a star. Who's the U-boat commander?
42. The Blues Brothers 1974 Dodge Monaco: The 13 different Dodges that portrayed the "Bluesmobile" in this 1980 film were bought from the California Highway Patrol. Hit it!
41. Route 66 1961 Chevrolet Corvette: GM put Martin Milner and George Maharis (then Glenn Corbett) in a new 'Vette every year for this road adventure series between 1960 and 1964.

40. The Italian Job 1967 Lamborghini Miura: Reportedly, the Miura wrecked here was already destroyed before filming. That doesn't make its fate any less painful to watch.
39. Dirty Mary, Crazy Larry 1969 Dodge Charger: Sometimes a '68 or a '69 in this 1974 movie, the Charger's explosive fame came in the explosive credits for TV's The Fall Guy.
38. 77 Sunset Strip T-Bucket: "Kookie" (Edd Byrnes) drove a wild T-Bucket actually built by Norm Grabowski on this 1959-'64 series. It defined '60s hot-rodding.
37. Bullitt 1968 Dodge Charger: This Dodge chased Steve McQueen's Mustang through San Francisco in this 1968 cop drama. Bad guys have been driving Chargers in movies ever since.
36. Corvette Summer 1973 Corvette: Converted to right-hand drive and drowned in overstyled fiberglass. Mark Hamill spends this 1978 movie getting it back after it's stolen.
35. Gone in 60 Seconds 1973 Mustang Mach 1: Toby Halicki wrote, directed, starred in and was the stunt driver for this 1974 chase film. What everyone remembers is Eleanor the Mustang.
34. The Gumball Rally 1972 Ferrari Daytona Spyder: "The first rule of Italian driving," says Raul Julia as he rips off the real Daytona Spyder's rearview mirror. "What's behind me is not important."
33. The Gumball Rally 1966 Shelby Cobra 427: Two genuine Cobras were used in this 1976 comedy that remains the best movie made about transcontinental street racing.
32. The Godfather 1941 Lincoln Continental: Sonny Corleone dies in a hail of machine gun fire outside his special Lincoln. It's the best car in this all-time-great 1972 movie.
31. Vanishing Point 1970 Dodge Challenger: 440 and a pistol-grip four-speed. The cops chasing Kowalski in this 1971 film don't know his first name. A '67 Camaro doubles the Dodge in the explosive climax.

30. Chitty Chitty Bang Bang 1910 Chitty Chitty Bang Bang: Musical about a miraculous car based on an old Grand Prix racer. Has made car guys out of millions of kids since 1968.
29. Back to the Future 1981 DeLorean DMC-12: Doc Brown: "The way I see it, if you're gonna build a time machine into a car, why not do it with some style?" It is 1985's best movie.
28. American Graffiti 1955 Chevy 210: Bob Falfa's '55 challenges John Milner's self worth. It's the same '55 from Two-Lane Blacktop, painted black and with Harrison Ford driving.
27. Two-Lane Blacktop 1955 Chevy 210: Solid front axle, 454 with tunnel ram, glass nose and deck lid, Plexiglas side windows; it was nasty in 1971 and it's nasty now.
26. The A-Team 1983 GMC Van: Fugitive mercenaries hide in a van with a big red stripe. But on NBC between 1983 and 1987 it made perfect sense. At least it did if you were 12.
25. The Fall Guy 1982 GMC Sierra: Stuntman/bounty hunter Colt Seavers (Lee Majors) always had to jump his big GMC pickup. The ABC TV series destroyed dozens between 1981 and 1986.
24. Hardcastle and McCormick Coyote X: Originally a Manta Montage kit car, and later seasons used a rebodied DeLorean. Swung its tail around every corner in this 1983-'86 TV series.
23. Take This Job and Shove It 1974 Ford F-250 Bigfoot: The 1981 movie, starring Robert Hays, is forgotten. But Bigfoot's appearance made monster trucks a big deal.
22. The California Kid 1934 Ford Coupe: This 1974 TV movie made the '34 Three-Window built by Pete Chapouris one of the most famous hot rods of all time. It's still beautiful.
21. Magnum, P.I. 1978 Ferrari 308 GTS: Thomas Magnum (Tom Selleck) drove three different red 308 GTSs through eight seasons on this Hawaii-based detective show from 1980-'88. ROBIN1.

20. National Lampoon's Vacation 1983 Wagon Queen Family Truckster: Clark Griswold's indignities start when he doesn't get the Sport Wagon he ordered in this 1983 film. Wally World, here we come.
19. Le Mans 1970 Ferrari 512S: By Ferrari standards, it wasn't a successful racer. But it looked spectacular running alongside Porsche 917s in Steve McQueen's 1971 racing film.
18. Le Mans 1970 Porsche 917K: The greatest Porsche of them all, running full speed down the Mulsanne Straight with McQueen at the wheel. Then he destroys it in a spectacular wreck.
17. The Cannonball Run 1980 Lamborghini LP400S: A black Lambo with Adrienne Barbeau and Tara Buckman aboard? Wicked. The great Brock Yates wrote this 1981 movie.
16. The Fast and the Furious 1970 Dodge Charger: The iconic car from this movie series is so intimidating that Vin Diesel is scared to drive it in the original film.
15. Ronin 1998 Audi S8: In John Frankenheimer's 1998 chase film, it's this big green sedan that does most of the pushing in its best chase.
14. Ferris Bueller's Day Off 1961 Ferrari 250 GT California: Yeah, the Ferrari in the 1986 movie was just a replica. But it's the first Ferrari many of us ever lusted after. You fellas have nothing to worry about. I'm a professional.
13. The Love Bug 1962 Volkswagen Beetle: A very good Disney movie that opened in 1968 and became the highest-grossing film of 1969. Herbie was a star from the start.
12. The Rockford Files 1974 Pontiac Firebird Esprit: P.I. Jim Rockford drove his tan coupe brilliantly between 1974 and 1980. He got a new one every year between 1974 and 1978. Made the reverse spin famous.
11. Starsky & Hutch 1975 Ford Gran Torino: The "striped tomato" may be the world's worst undercover cop car. But for four seasons on ABC from 1975-'79, it was awesome.

10. Batman 1955 Lincoln Futura Batmobile: George Barris' crew reworked and restyled an old Ford concept car into the great Batmobile for the campy 1966-'68 TV series. Turbines to speed.
9. Mad Max 1973 Ford XB Falcon: Australia's greatest export is George Miller's 1979 vision of a dystopian future, which includes the last of the V8 interceptors. Everyone wants a blower that can be turned on and off.
8. Gone in Sixty Seconds 1967 Shelby GT500: Steve Stanford designed this exaggerated GT500 "Eleanor" and it's been copied and copied ever since the 2000 movie hit.
7. Knight Rider 1982 Pontiac Trans Am: The Knight Industries Two Thousand (KITT) was a supercar that talked to David Hasselhoff for four seasons between 1982 and 1986. At least KITT didn't have to listen.
6. Bullitt 1968 Ford Mustang GT 390: Even before the legendary chase begins, it was dented and tough-looking. This Mustang has defined cool for more than 40 years.
5. American Graffiti 1932 Ford Coupe: When this movie appeared in 1973, street-rodding was almost dead. John Milner's yellow '32 five-window made it relevant again.
4. Smokey and the Bandit 1977 Pontiac Trans Am: 1977's second most popular film. But you couldn't buy a Millennium Falcon, and Pontiac dealers had plenty of T/As. Speedy car.
3. The Spy Who Loved Me 1977 Lotus Esprit: In this 1977 film, it's a Lotus that turns into a submarine. That's enough to make it the third greatest movie/TV car of all time.
2. Goldfinger 1963 Aston Martin DB5: The greatest James Bond car is fitted by Q with "modifications" for this 1964 movie. The standard against which all spy, movie and TV cars are judged. Last year it sold at auction for $4.6 million.
1. The Dukes of Hazzard 1969 Dodge Charger: More than 300 Chargers portrayed the General Lee during the series 145 episodes (1979-'86). Today it's the ultimate Hollywood star car. Yeeeeeeeeeeeeehaaaaaaaaaaaaw.

The Best Used Cars For The Money

Jim Gorzelany, Contributor

Straight talk on how to maximize your automotive investment, and more.

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Click for full photo gallery: The Best Used Cars For The Money

It’s never been more difficult for buyers to find a bargain in the used car market. Fortunately we’ve dug deep into the data to identify 11 worthy late-model cars and SUVs that are truly great deals.

According to the used-car valuation experts at Kelley Blue Book, the average value of a one- to three-year-old used vehicle has increased from $15,000 in 2008 to more than $23,000 in 2011, which amounts to an average boost of nearly 16 percent per year. This is causing an affordability problem among cash-strapped buyers who can’t otherwise afford a new car, which on average costs nearly $30,000 according to the industry research and forecasting company TrueCar.com.

“While the pace of used-car appreciation is likely to subside as supply, and ultimately sales, improve, shoppers in the market for a used car will continue to pay more, making it difficult to buy at a discount.” says Alec Gutierrez, manager of vehicle valuation for Kelley Blue Book.

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This situation can be blamed largely on the economist’s old friends, the forces of supply and demand. The industry is currently suffering from a diminished stock of used models on dealers’ lots, just as pent-up demand is bringing buyers back into the market. This lack of inventory is widely attributed to an extended period of slow new-car sales, which resulted in fewer trade-ins, combined with a rollback in new-car leasing between 2008-2010 that would have otherwise yielded two- and three-year-old used models coming off lease. What’s more, over 690,000 used cars – albeit older and less-desirable models – were taken out of the market by the so-called “cash for clunkers” program in 2009.

Analysts predict used car prices will finally begin tapering off, perhaps as early as year’s end, with healthier new-car sales – including those from Japanese automakers recovering from production disruptions because of the earthquake and tsunami in March – helping to refill the supply chain via trade-ins. “Used car prices at the end of the year will still be higher than last year, but not at the levels during the peak in May and June when prices jumped 25-30 percent higher,” says Jonathan Banks, a senior analyst with the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) Used Car Guide

But that doesn’t mean there still aren’t some advantageous deals to be found in the used-car market. The key here is to find the “best” late-model pre-owned vehicles that, for one reason or another, have lower-than-average resale prices.

Age, condition and mileage largely determine a car’s value in the resale market, but comparable models can still cost more or less than each other because of various market forces. According to Automotive Lease Guide, a vehicle’s value down the road can be affected by something as superficial as a particular make or model’s market perception. Cars initially sold with big cash rebates tend to take a greater hit in terms of depreciation, as do vehicles that have significant fleet sales, which ensures a steady flow of models into the resale market each year.

Click here for the gallery: The Best Used Cars For The Money.

Our list of Best Used Cars for the Money consists of vehicles from the 2008 model year that received average or above-average scores from the most recent J.D. Power & Associates U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study and boast average or below-average long-term ownership costs as reported by Intellichoice.com. Even so, they all suffer below-average resale values as estimated by Kelley Blue Book. Used-car values cited for comparison are based on dealers’ estimated retail prices for three-year-old models in excellent condition, equipped with a typical assortment of features and driven an average 46,500 miles. Actual transaction prices will vary according to a vehicle’s precise condition, exact mileage and a buyer’s negotiating skills.

One caveat: Even the sweetest used car deal can ultimately go sour if the vehicle’s been abused, has hidden damage or was improperly maintained. That’s why it’s always prudent to have a trusted mechanic carefully inspect any used car or truck under your consideration to get an impartial evaluation of its operating condition, especially if you’re buying it from a private party. Particularly in the wake of this year’s devastating floods, be sure to run a model’s vehicle identification number (VIN) through a title-search service like carfax.com to make sure it hasn’t been previously flood-damaged or salvaged and subsequently rebuilt.

2008 Ford Taurus: Ironically, while this accommodating full-size sedan enjoys a top ranking for reliability from J.D. Power & Associates, it’s saddled with poor resale value, which makes it an especially attractive choice as a used car. It comes nicely powered by a 263-horsepower V6 engine that’s mated to a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission. If you live in the Snow Belt, look for models equipped with the optional all-wheel-drive system for top traction. Otherwise, the car delivers a smooth ride with surprisingly lively handling. With an estimated retail price of $14,685-$20,370 for the 2008 version you’ll save quite a bit of money over a comparable Toyota Avalon at $20,200-$26,770.

2008 Hyundai Accent: Here’s another model that gets top rankings for reliability, but is saddled with rock-bottom resale values. With a retail price in excellent condition estimated at $9,580-$10,705, the subcompact Accent is a good deal compared to models like the Nissan Versa at a projected $11,580-$12,850 and the Honda Fit at $14,030-$15,550. Offered in a choice of sedan or hatchback body styles with only modest features, performance was not the 2008 Accent’s strong suit with only a 110-horsepower engine under the hood, but it boasts admirable fuel economy at 27-city/33-highway mpg.

2008 Buick LaCrosse: This large near-luxury car boasts top reliability with low long-term ownership costs and sells at bargain prices in the resale market. You’ll find the 2008 vintage with either a sufficient 200-horsepower 3.8-liter V6 engine or a more powerful 300-horsepower 5.3-liter V8. While the current model features snazzier styling, the 2008 model gives up nothing in terms of passenger comfort, with a buttery smooth ride. It retails for an estimated $14,765-$19,505, which edges out its closest competitor, the Chrysler 300, at $15,550-$22.865.

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Click here for the gallery: The Best Used Cars For The Money.

2008 Hyundai Elantra: While the previous generation Elantra compact sedan isn’t as expressively styled as the current model, it performs well in most respects and garners top scores for reliability after three years of ownership. A 138-horsepower four-cylinder engine is peppy enough, especially when mated to the standard five-speed manual transmission. The 2008 model is a decent deal with a projected retail price of $11,650-$13,600, versus an estimated $12,510-$16,780 for the class-leading Honda Civic.

2008 Cadillac DTS: They don’t make luxury cars like this any more (literally, as the DTS was discontinued at the end of the 2011 model year). The old-school DTS is big as a boat and emphasizes comfort above all else. A choice of 4.6-liter V8 engines delivers 275 or 292 horsepower, with the car receiving top reliability scores. Look for models equipped with what are still among the latest safety features, including lane-departure and blind-spot warning systems. At an estimated retail price of $22,300 (with little else in the market with which to compare it) it’s a classy ride at a bargain price.

2008 Mitsubishi Galant: The midsize Galant sedan performs admirably, with better-than-average reliability and uncluttered styling that remains fresh. You’ll find model-year 2008 Galants equipped with either a 160-horsepower four-cylinder engine or a smoother and more powerful 258-horsepower V6 in the top Ralliart model. The Toyota Camry might be more the popular choice, but a 2008 Galant is more affordable at an estimated retail price of $12,630-$18,255 versus $15,385-$20,440 for the Camry.

Click here for the gallery: The Best Used Cars For The Money.

2008 Chevrolet Trailblazer: This midsize truck-based SUV can tackle the toughest trails and tow a decent-sized boat or trailer when properly equipped, which are tasks few of today’s car-based crossovers can accomplish. There’s no shortage of power, with a range of V6 and V8 engines delivering from 285-390 horsepower. Mechanically equivalent to the GMC Envoy, both models were discontinued after the 2009 model year. The 2008 Trailblazer can be found on dealers’ lots in excellent condition for around $17,650-$26,165. Those instead seeking a 2008 Toyota 4Runner will be asked to pay a costlier $25,530-$32,605.

2008 Cadillac SRX: While the current generation of Cadillac’s luxury crossover SUV is smaller and more stylish, the 2008 version holds its own with solid performance from a choice of V6 and V8 engines at 255 and 320 horsepower, and sportier-than-average handling. Its roomy interior can seat up to seven passengers when found with the available third-row seat. With a projected retail price of $26,300-$28,035 you’ll keep a couple thousand dollars in your pocket by choosing a 2008 SRX instead of the Lexus RX350 at $28,500-$30,000.

2008 Dodge Durango: While large truck-based SUVs have largely fallen out of favor, those with a purposeful need for a roomy vehicle with stalwart towing abilities will find the 2008 Dodge Durango to be a godsend. You’ll find dealers asking around $14,685-$23,970 for a three-year-old model in excellent condition versus a projected $24,835-$34,805 for a Chevrolet Tahoe. The Durango’s base 3.7-liter V6 is barely adequate at 210 horsepower; it’s better equipped with either of the available V8s at 303 and 335 horses. This generation ran through the end of the 2009 model year with a similar version sold as the Chrysler Aspen.

2008 Chevrolet Equinox: This pleasant compact SUV is not only capable, coming powered by either a 3.4-liter V6 engine at 185 horsepower or a 3.6-liter V6 with 264 horses, it’s comfortable, with a back seat that can slide fore or aft to maximize legroom or cargo space. A similar model was sold as the Pontiac Torrent. It’s a better deal than the import competition, with an estimated retail price of $17,050-$22,805 for a 2008 model versus around $18,785-$23,635 for a similar Toyota RAV4

2008 Hyundai Sonata: While Hyundai is at the top of its game right now with the current-generation Sonata, there’s still a lot to like about the previous generation of this midsize sedan, particularly if you find one with the smooth and powerful 234-horsepower 3.3-lityer V6 engine. A 2.4-liter four-cylinder with a sufficient 162 horses was otherwise standard with the 2008 model. You’ll find it packed with features at an affordable price, which is pegged at about $13,115-$16,635 at retail in excellent condition. By contrast, dealers will ask a steeper $17,975-$19,635 for a 2008 Nissan Altima.

Click here for the gallery: The Best Used Cars For The Money.

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10 images Photos: 10 Used Cars to Avoid

10 images Photos: Top 10 Most Brand-Loyal Cars

10 images Photos: Most Successful Cars For 2011

Jim Gorzelany is author of the Automotive Intelligentsia 2011-2012 Sports Car Guide, available at Amazon [link), Barnes & Noble [link] and the Apple iBooks Store.

10 Steps to Finding the Right Car for You

Edmund.com's Buying Tips
By Philip Reed, Senior Consumer Advice Editor

Step 1: What kind of car do you need?
If you examine your needs rather than wants, you will quickly discover what the right car is for you. In too many cases people choose a car for its styling or because it is a trendy favorite. Let your needs, not your wants, drive your decision.

Step 2: How much can you afford?
Regardless of whether you decide to buy or lease your next car, establishing a realistic monthly payment that fits into your budget is crucial. How much should this be? A rule of thumb is your total monthly car payments shouldn't exceed 20 percent of your monthly take-home pay.

Step 3: Should you lease or buy your next car?
A lease requires little or no money up front and offers lower monthly payments. But when the lease ends, you are left without a car and will need to replace it. Buying a car is more expensive initially and the monthly payments are higher. But at the end of the loan, you will own a car you can still drive or sell.

Advantages of Leasing	Advantages of Buying
You can drive a more expensive car for less money. You can drive a new car every few years. There are no trade-in hassles at the end of the lease.	When interest rates are low, is better to own a car rather than lease it. There are no unexpected mileage penalties for increased driving. There's more flexibility — you can sell the car whenever you want.

Step 4: Have you considered all vehicles in that class?
In today's crowded automotive marketplace, many consumers have difficulty keeping up with all of the vehicles available.

Step 5: Have you considered all of the costs of ownership?
Even if two cars cost about the same to buy, one can depreciate at a different rate or cost significantly more to insure or maintain. Before you commit to one car, you should estimate the long-term ownership costs of the vehicle you are considering. These include depreciation, insurance, maintenance and fuel costs

Step 6: Research options.
In the past, car buyers have been trained to visit local dealerships to find the car they want. In the Internet age, this is a waste of time and money. You can quickly cover more ground by shopping online. The only things you have to do in person are test-driving the car and sign the contract. And in some cases, you can even have the car delivered to you by the salesperson.

Step 7: Schedule an appointment for a test drive.
It's a good idea to make your initial contact with a dealership by phone or e-mail before going there in person. This can give you a sense of the sales style you will be dealing with throughout the buying process. Call the Internet department (sometimes called the fleet department) and ask if the car you're looking for - in the right color and trim level - is actually on the lot.

Step 8: How to test drive a car.
The test-drive should replicate the conditions the car will be used in after you buy it. If you commute, drive the car in both stop-and-go traffic and at freeway speeds. Drive over bumps, take tight corners and test the brakes in a safe location. In short, ask yourself if you can live with this car for a number of years.

Step 9: After the test drive.
After the test-drive, you should leave the car lot. Why? You will probably need to drive other types of cars at other dealerships. It's a good idea to do your entire test-driving in one morning or afternoon. Driving the cars back-to-back will help you uncover differences that will lead to an educated purchase decision.

Step 10: Getting ready for the buying cycle.
At this point you should have considered all the cars in the class that interest you. You should have a good idea what you can afford. You should know if you want to buy or lease your next car. You should have test-driven your top choices.