The average person cannot explain what a drive shaft is, how the cam belt works or why you need a wrist pin. A vehicle is meant to get you from point A to point B and with no hassles. What do people look for in a vehicle and what should we really be looking at?
The recession has hit South African citizens hard and the first thing that people deem an unnecessary expense is car repairs or purchasing a new vehicle. The catch phrase people have adopted is debt consolidation. This means to merge all debts in one loan and pay it off at one fixed rate. However, does this mean we need to stop living?
Here are five reasons why you need to buy a new car:
Number One: Fuel Economy
The sales of hybrid and clean diesel vehicles were up by more than thirty-five percent at the end of the first quarter of 2012. However, one does not need to only purchase one of these vehicles to gain on fuel economy. The internal combustion of vehicles has drastically improved in the last ten years and even non-hybrids will save you money. The common trend for vehicles to have a six speed gear box fitted to improve consumption, as the revs are lower and allows the car to use less petrol.
Number Two: Power
While new engines and transmissions help improve fuel efficiency, newer vehicle tend to be more powerful. Engineers have improved vehicle engines in two ways: Reduced friction and improved control modules.
One – The reduction of internal friction in the engine means the components in the vehicle can move more freely and allow for a smoother transition between gears.
Two – Computer modules in the vehicles have improved to the extent that vehicles operate on only the required cylinders. Therefore, the larger V8 vehicles will only use three or four cylinders in town, drastically reducing power, but improving fuel economy.
An example of increasing horsepower is the Chevrolet Camaro. In 2001, this 3.8-liter V6 produced 200 horsepower. Today, the 2012 Camaro with a 3.6 liter V6 produces 312 horsepower and has a better fuel economy.
Number Three: Safety
The changes in Technology have made vehicle occupants safer than ever before. Vehicles currently fitted with airbags in the front and back, stability and traction control systems are standard and cars are fitted with tyre pressure monitors. In addition to the basics, technologies such as lane changing warnings, automatic emergency braking system, traffic warnings and auto park functions are transferring down from luxury cars to mass market affordable cars.
Number Four: Technology
The current cell phone laws in Cape Town prohibit drivers from using their cell phones whilst driving. New car models come with Bluetooth, USB ports, iPod ports, cell phone chargers and central locking. Other technologies in vehicles include ventilation in from seats (that heat and cool the front seats), voice controlled navigation systems and cameras around the vehicle to assist parking.
These systems are all controlled by the driver at a touch of a button. Technology is making driving easier and allowing business persons the ability to stay legally contactable whilst sitting in traffic.
Number Five: Easier to Obtain Credit
During the 2008-2010 period consumers struggled to obtain private vehicle finance from banks. The reason for this was simple, the recession hit consumers hard and unable to repay their loans. However, 2012 has seen a turn in the market. Consumers are able to repay the loans and banks have enforced tighter regulations surrounding the applications for loans.
Negotiating with banks allows you to obtain a lower interest rate on your repayment. However, you need to be smart about purchasing a new car. You need to decide if you want to trade
your old vehicle in at the dealership or sell it privately and keep the profits of the sale, or deduct it from purchase price of the new car.
Here are five reasons why you need to purchase a new car. Remember to do your homework before purchasing a new car. The vehicle needs to be affordable and suit your everyday needs.
I am Greg Jones, I love sport, cars and blogging.
Debt consolidation can help you finance your dream car and repay it in a shorter time with lower interest rates.