New Zealand Used Cars

Get FIRST ACESS with ATNZ Direct

2010-02-08T00:58:00.000-08:00

Image taken from www.autoterminal.com

AutoTerminal.com New Zealand gives first access to fresh Japan stocks to registered customers via ATNZ Direct.

Aside from that, registered users get the best possible pricing and a risk-free purchase.

Register now for FREE at ATNZ's website to avail of the best bargains on fresh Japanese imports.

For more information, you may also click here.

Amalia Rose Aviles
aaviles@autoterminal.com

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AutoTerminal.com New Zealand launches “Grab a car” offers

2010-01-26T21:36:00.000-08:00

Image taken from newzealand.autoterminal.com

22 January 2010. AutoTerminal.com New Zealand has launched "Grab a car" via its website.

“Grab a car” enables registered customers to purchase from 4 – 6 vehicle bargains every Monday to Friday from 12pm – 4pm.

Customers simply click on the vehicle photo which leads them to a detailed vehicle checklist. Once the "Buy Now" button is clicked, an automated live chat window opens to confirm the purchase with an online sales representative.

AutoTerminal.com New Zealand is the premier supplier of used Japanese vehicles throughout New Zealand with five branches nationwide. With regular shipments from Japan AutoTerminal.com New Zealand offers the widest selection at competitive wholesale prices.

Interested buyers and applicants may sign up for free or log in at http://nz.autoterminal.com or call +64 9 257 0070 for further assistance.

Amalia Rose Aviles

aaviles@autoterminal.com

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How to purchase the right parts for your vehicle

2009-07-30T23:20:00.000-07:00

Image taken from IBC Japan Parts

Is your vehicle breaking down and in need of repair? Selecting from various brands can be puzzling and expensive if not done correctly.

First, you need to familiarize yourself with two types of vehicle parts - OEM parts (Original Equipment Manufacturer) and Aftermarket Parts.

OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Parts have been made by the vehicle’s manufacturer and are the original parts used in making the vehicle. It may also be a replacement part approved by the maker.

Aftermarket Parts is a term often used for non-OEM replacement parts.

Aftermarket vs. OEM

Aftermarket PROS:
• Usually cheaper than OEM.
• Some aftermarket parts were created equal, while some outperform OEM parts in terms of quality.
• More brands available = more choices for you.
• More available in different repair shops

Aftermarket CONS:
• Some may have inferior quality due to the kind of material used.
• Selecting the right part may be very challenging due to extensive inventory.

OEM PROS:
• No hassle; you get the exact, original part for your vehicle without the guess work.
• Better quality assurance; the replacement part is just as good.
• Available warranty; most come with a 1-year warranty.

OEM CONS:
• More Expensive; these tend to cost over 60% more than aftermarket parts.
• Limited branches; they are sold exclusively in dealers’ shops.
• Some OEMs may not be as durable as the higher quality Aftermarket parts.

BUYING TIPS
To be on the safer side, its best to buy OEM parts for your vehicle than risk with unrecognized aftermarket parts. However, if you have done enough research on the quality of available aftermarket parts, you may opt for that as long as you purchase only from credible sources.

IBC Japan Parts is a reputable source of quality OEM and Aftermarket parts and accessories for your vehicle maintenance and accessorizing needs. Simply log on to IBC Japan Parts to get started. Registration is FREE and easy!

Amalia Aviles
Aaviles@autoterminal.com

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AutoTerminal Christchurch Opening Specials!

2009-07-14T20:34:00.000-07:00

ATTENTION Christchurch Registered Motor Vehicle Traders:

AutoTerminal Christchurch recently relocated to 162 Montreal St and has Opening Specials for you to purchase! Register now to avail of these Opening Specials! Registration is FREE! Call (03) 365 2974 for more details!

Click on the images below to enlarge.

PROPER VEHICLE MAINTENANCE

2009-07-03T01:48:00.000-07:00

Image taken from MotoHound.co.nz

Regular servicing of your vehicle can minimize the risk of major repair bills and should ensure reliability, but there are some basic checks and maintenance you can carry out yourself.

Here are a few basic maintenance items you can carry out.

Bodywork- Wash your vehicle on a regular basis. This will ensure the paint condition will be maintained. Polish paintwork periodically to protect the paint and maintain shine.

Engine Oil – Check engine oil regularly. Watch for oil leaks under vehicle and have remedied. Have oil and filter changed at manufacturers recommended intervals.

Lights – Check operation of all lights on a regular basis.

Power steering – Fluid levels on power steering should be checked when vehicle is serviced. If you notice the level is low this normally indicates a leak – have this checked by your servicing garage.

Screen wash – Regularly check and refill screen wash when needed. A good quality additive will ensure better cleaning.

Tyres – Check tyre pressures regularly, including spare wheel. Visually check for wear on tyres. If unsure your local tyre dealer will usually do this free of charge. If uneven tyre wear is noticed a wheel alignment will be needed.

Water – Check engine coolant in the reservoir. Never remove the radiator cap when the engine is hot. Top up reservoir as necessary. Ensure antifreeze is the correct concentration. This should be done as part of regular servicing.

Wipers – Replace wiper blade refills when necessary. Your local parts supplier can supply these.

If you notice anything unusual when driving your vehicle or if any warning lights show on the dash have it checked at your local dealer as soon as possible.

Amalia Rose Aviles
Aaviles@autoterminal.com

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Five good reasons why you should purchase from ATNZ

2009-06-09T18:55:00.000-07:00

According to IMVDA’s recent report, used-vehicle registrations have persistently fallen.

The global struggle continues to loom and to survive the recession, dealers must only transact with a reputable source.

AutoTerminal.com New Zealand (ATNZ) is New Zealand’s largest wholesaler of used Japanese imports and why wouldn’t it be? Here are 5 reasons why ATNZ is the best:

1. E2E quality assurance

E2E or end to end is ATNZ’s stringent quality control system. You are assured that all vehicles have gone through: accident and damage inspections, full interior and exterior cleaning, odometer certification, stolen vehicle check, MAF inspections, mechanical inspections, WOF compliance, mechanical inspections and grooming.

2. Massive used vehicle inventory

ATNZ’s got over 4,000+ quality used vehicles for you to choose from. Not only that; if you haven’t found what you’ve been looking for, you may pre order and let ATNZ find it for you.

3. Specials sent straight to your inbox

Signing up is free and you can receive hot bargains and fresh imports via email.

4. Delivery service

You don’t have to move a muscle. For an added fee, ATNZ can arrange the delivery of your vehicles.

5. Unparalleled 24/7 customer assistance

You can chat, skype or email an ATNZ representative any time.

ATNZ reinforces safety and reliability with its new End to End Quality Control System

2009-06-03T00:41:00.000-07:00

AutoTerminal.com New Zealand (ATNZ) is proud to announce its new End to End quality control system or E2E. E2E is an intensive quality control system comprised of vehicle history checks, mechanical and structural inspections, compliance, panel and paint when needed and finally, a full interior and exterior groom on all imported vehicles. We at ATNZ have appointed certified technicians and partnered with reputable agencies namely: AA New Zealand and VSS (Vehicle Safety Systems) to ensure all vehicles not only meet NZTA standards, but exceed them.

Click here to read more about E2E in the ATNZ website.

Top 10 Favorite Used Vehicles in New Zealand

2009-06-02T23:37:00.000-07:00

If you are considering importing or purchasing used Japanese vehicles, check out the top 10 used vehicles in NZ.

Over 4,000 used vehicles may be found at www.autoterminal.com (for dealers) and www.motohound.co.nz (for retail). Both websites integrated the E2E or End to End Quality Control System. Vehicles have been through stringent inspections, MAF, stolen vehicle checks, odometer certification, WOF compliance, panel and paint when needed and grooming.

Note: This list was taken from AutoMedia eMagazine (May ’09 edition) and based on used vehicle registrations YTD (year to date).
General reviews were taken online from various customers who have posted their feedback on the vehicles. Image taken from automobilemag.com

1. Subaru Legacy
General reviews: “Targeted at consumers who want a combination of safety, reliability, and interior comfort.”

2. Toyota Vitz
General reviews: “fun to drive. Pros- fuel economy; Cons- Nothing really.”

3. Honda Odyssey
General reviews: “Most drivers expect that by staying with the regular maintenance schedule, this minivan will run dependably for a very long time. It has excellent fuel efficiency, low emissions, and with the back seat folded down, tremendous cargo space.”

4. Toyota Estima
General reviews: “If your lifestyle demands an eight-seater vehicle but you can't bear the thought of driving something that looks like a van, then the Estima’s for you.”

5. Toyota Corolla
General reviews: “With comfortable roomy interior, smooth ride, good safety ratings and excellent fuel economy, the 2003-2008 Corolla is one of the top picks in a small family car category.”

6. Mazda Familia
General reviews: “Plus points are good reliability and build quality and a roomy, well equipped cabin. It's also pleasant to drive..”

7. Toyota Altezza
General reviews: “It's one of the better handling cars which was a pleasure to drive. A real driver's car; awesome steering feel and response.”

8. Subaru Impreza
General reviews: “..the WRX delivers adequate comfort with the best performance (handling, acceleration)..An excellent second hand buy for people looking for something a bit different.”

9. Mazda Atenza
General reviews: “Very comfortable ride. Very smooth and classic lines to the eye, looks interesting not drab like others.”

10. Nissan Primera
General reviews: ” Great performance for the class. Excellent reliability, performance and handling.”

Amalia Rose Aviles
aaviles@autoterminal.com

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The Pros and Cons of Electric Vehicles (EV’s)

2009-06-02T22:53:00.000-07:00

Image taken from www.khulsey.com

Society is wising up in terms of buying the right, economical and eco-friendly vehicles. A few years ago, more auto brands were “going green” and started producing more electric vehicles (EV’s) and hybrids. Motor shows showcased more improvisations of electric vehicles (EV’s) – even the fastest car on earth is now electric.

We will be seeing more of the EV’s since most governments are imposing tougher emission standards on car makers. Other than that, EV development is here to stay due to the fear of erratic gas prices.

Are you thinking of buying an EV? It would be advisable to weigh the pros and cons before you purchase. Here’s a brief look on those important points you should consider:

PROS:

• COST – Big savings. EV’s just cost as much as gasoline and diesel vehicles when purchased but you save more in the long run; gasoline prices are higher than the price of electricity you need to charge overnight.

• EFFECT ON ENVIRONMENT – Environmentally safe. EV’s are very eco-friendly because they produce almost no emissions; unlike the gasoline and diesel vehicles.

• VERSATILITY/PERFORMANCE – Noise-free and easy. EV’s make a quiet ride and are fairly easy to operate.

CONS:

• BATTERY- Expensive and not eco-friendly. Some batteries won’t last long before you have to recharge them. New batteries are expensive since they are not the ordinary lead-acid type. They are quite heavy and you’ll have a hard time disposing them since they’re not eco-friendly.

• SAFETY- Quite the average. Because EV’s are nearly silent, they become a hazard when people are not aware of the acceleration. We are used to hearing a speeding car pass by and pedestrians might be in danger. People who have driven an EV don’t feel safe because when they accelerate, they are not in total control. Make sure to ask whether the EV you are interested in has gone through any crash testing; they might not have the same degree of safety as the gas/diesel vehicles.

• PARTS & REPAIRS- Expensive and complicated. Parts for repairs are more pricy due to lower demand. There are only a few brands selling quality EV’s. You have to be a licensed electrician and licensed mechanic to work on them.

• EFFECT ON ENVIRONMENT – Not so eco-friendly. More EV’s mean more power plants; power plants are pollutants to the environment.

• VERSATILITY/PERFORMANCE -Low in versatility compared to diesel/gasoline cars. There is no total control when you accelerate. It starts out slow and the speed eventually increases unlike in gasoline/diesel cars where the accelerometer is very responsive.

The A-Z of Driving Overseas

2009-01-21T00:07:00.000-08:00

Autobahn
Germany's Autobahn (motorway)- is one of the best places to be for fast and furious drivers. You can legally drive as fast as you wish. There is no general speed limit but only a recommended speed limit of 130 kph (81 mph). The same rule applies on French motorways but in Norway you’d have to slow down, where it’s just 90 kph (55 mph).

Breakdowns
Make sure to bring breakdown cover before going on a cross country road trip. It could cost over £2000 for a stranded car and four passengers to be brought home from Southern Europe.

Company cars
Make sure to get permission, if you plan to drive the company car overseas. Bring the official letter from your employer authorizing you to take it with you abroad. If it’s a lease car, you’ll also need to secure a vehicle-on-hire certificate from the leasing company.

Driving license
It’s a legal requirement to carry your license when driving, unlike in the UK. You might need to get an International Driving Permit for other countries.

EU enlargement
Ten new states joined the European Union and make a perfect holiday driving destination. Be on the lookout for unfamiliar road rules. Speed limits vary on certain roads during certain seasons and winter tires must be fitted in snowing states.

Fuel can
In several European countries it’s illegal to be carrying a can of spare fuel in the boot. They’re also banned on car ferries or Le Shuttle, whether full or empty.

GB sticker
You don’t need a separate GB sticker when visiting other EU countries if your vehicle is fitted with the new-style euro plate. However, if the vehicle has the old number plate, the law requires a GB sticker close to your rear number plate. Towing trailers or caravans need another sticker as well.

Horn
Be careful not to honk your horn anywhere. Most places are annoyed with incessant honking and are introducing laws to stop unnecessary horn use, especially in town.

Italy
Italy is home to fast and furious drivers with major motorways of speed limits increased to (93 mph). It’s important to keep your headlamps on when driving in Italy.

Junctions
When driving in France, a give-way-to-the-right rule applies. Motorists must give way to vehicles joining their road from the right even if their on the main road, unless signs indicate they have priority.

Kangaroos
The outback could be very hazardous at night so avoid it. Collisions with kangaroos are common in Australia.

Lights
In Scandinavia, it’s a legal requirement to keep your head lamps on. This is the same reason why Volvos have their headlights on all the time.

Mobile phones
Many countries have laws that ban the use of mobile phones while driving. Mobile phones are a well-known necessity but also a fatal driving hazard.

Night driving
Make sure you’re not drowsy while driving at night. Research has shown that the greatest risk of falling asleep at the wheel is between midnight-6am and 2-4pm.
On the spot fines
French police are known to collect up to 375 Euros on fines. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the different road rules before setting off. This will save you the trip to the cash machine.

Parking
In France parking is allowed in one side of the road and is switched to the other side. This can be tricky, so better make sure you get the rules before trying anything. In Austria, motorists must leave sidelights on where street lights aren't lit - but must watch out for those streetlights that turn off at midnight.

Queues
Sometimes traffic lanes merge into one and in Germany the Reissverschluss or zipper law applies. This means that motorists on each lane must give way one at a time.

Rental cars
Before driving off with your rental, do a damage check. You could end up paying for that damage after using it. In the US, civil litigation is common and motorists need about $1m of Supplementary Liability Insurance cover.

Spectacles
When driving in Spain, make sure to keep a spare pair of spectacles in the car if you wear them. It not only makes you look smart, but it is required by law and applies to Switzerland as well.

Traffic lights
Red means stop and green means go. In America, however, motorists can make a right turn, after stopping to check if the road is clear.

Undertaking
Lane swapping is allowed on American freeways, so be very careful.
Drivers are allowed to overtake on the inside - a big “no-no” in most European countries.

Vignette
In Austria or Switzerland, a vignette or motorway tax disc is required.
Don’t go without displaying it on your windscreen.

Warning triangle
In some countries you need one and some countries two (Spain and Turkey).
In most countries like France, carry a set of spare light bulbs too.

X-roads
In America, where two or more cars stop at a cross-roads, the car that arrived first has right of way. If they both got there at the same time, the give-way-to-the-right rule applies

Young drivers
You can apply for a license in the UK at 17, but you can't in France and New Zealand till you're 18. However, for the first two years after passing your test, you’re not allowed to exceed 110 kph on the motorway.

Zebra Crossings
Drivers don't always stop for pedestrians at a zebra crossing in most countries.
Better be careful when you do, to avoid getting rear-ended by a local driver.

Avoiding Used Vehicle Fraud

2008-11-21T02:43:00.000-08:00

How to steer clear of buying stolen vehicles in New Zealand.

New Zealand is a country of spectacular landscapes and the Kiwis love cars. As a matter of fact, there are heaps of sellers and dealerships across the northern and southern territories. One of the things, however, that pose a threat to buying used cars is the risk of buying stolen ones.

This is not a dead end; and one sure fire way of fighting fraud is through stolen vehicle checks. While doing a check means time and money, it is much needed especially now during hard times.

One way is to do the checks through an agency and another is through the dealerships. IBC Japan, AutoTerminal.com and MotoHound - are the best examples of used vehicle sources that do thorough stolen vehicle checks and back their vehicles 100%.

If you wish to do some checks yourself, here are some smart tips you must follow:

DOs:

Be suspicious if the price on the vehicle is too cheap. Criminals typically make the sale exceptionally attractive to seal the deal fast.

Buy from reputable sources/dealers. Ask around or do a background check on any dealer you’re interested to buy from. All motor vehicle traders are required to be registered under the Motor Vehicle Sales Act (MVSA).

Go to the dealer or seller’s site where the vehicle is rather than have the vehicle delivered to your door.Get hold of the engine and chassis numbers and check for any alteration. Any alteration or imperfection may be an indication of an attempt to conceal vehicle’s true identity. Check if those numbers match those on the registration papers, keeping in mind that those numbers may not belong to the vehicle. A criminal wants you to make the match and be happy. Check the certificate of registration for any sign of alteration as well.

Always get the official receipt! Inspect whether the receipt accurately shows the name, address, date and description of vehicle. Include the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), chassis number and engine number, sale price and signature of seller.

Get current records by completing an information request form and paying a small fee at any New Zealand Post Shop when the Certificate of Registration papers are unavailable.

Make sure that the Road User Charges have been paid up to the odometer/hubometer reading during the time of purchase. You will be liable for arrears. You may contact the RUC helpdesk on 0800 655 644 if you can’t find the current RUC license.

DON’Ts:

Don’t deal with a seller/dealer by the road side. Make sure to visit their office or yard to inspect their business processes.

Don’t buy from a seller/dealer without the vehicle’s certificate of registration papers.

Don’t buy without checking if the color matches with Land Transport Safety Authority records. If vehicle has been repainted, check behind door rubbers for the original color. An incorrect vehicle color may indicate a stolen vehicle with a false identity.

Don’t buy a vehicle from a dealer/seller without the certificate of registration papers.

Don’t buy without checking whether there is money owing on the vehicle or a security interest registered over it. Buying a stolen vehicle or stolen vehicle parts in New Zealand is considered a serious crime and even if you purchase a stolen vehicle or part unknowingly, the rightful owner may take it back from you.

Are you likely to be at risk? Will your vehicle be the next target?
Here’s the top ten stolen vehicle list as reported by stuff.co.nz

Nissan Silvia
Subaru Impreza WRX
BMW 325 coupe
Nissan 200SX
Mazda Lantis
Legacy turbo
Subaru Impreza non-turbo
Skyline
Subaru Legacy non-turbo
Honda Prelude

Road Safety Tips for Drivers

2008-11-19T07:01:00.000-08:00

Are you a responsible driver? About a million people all over the world die of road accidents every year. Follow these essential road safety tips for your own sake and others.

1. Belt yourself.

Whether you are on the front seat or back, you are still at risk.
If you don’t, you could kill someone in the front as well as yourself.
Check if everyone is belted well before you hit the road and make sure you do, even on short trips.
Seats must be suited to your child’s size , weight, and for your vehicle. They must be properly fastened as well. Avoid using second-hand seats; only brand new and reliable brands.

2. Wake yourself.

Don’t risk driving when you’re sleepy.
If you do, chances are you’ll keep nodding while driving.
Research shows that the greatest risk of falling asleep at the wheel is between midnight-6am and 2-4pm; so get enough rest before setting off.
If ever you feel drowsy while driving, pull over; experts suggest to get a cup of coffee or an energy drink with caffeine. After drinking, park beside a busy and well-lit area and nap for a few minutes to give time for the caffeine to kick in.
Start driving only if you are alert again.

3. Sober yourself.

Don’t drive under the influence of any substance.
Don’t drive if you feel heavy and tipsy after drinking; trying to look sober won’t work and there’s a big chance you’ll doze off and crash. Sleep it off somewhere until you get sober.
Don’t be an idiot. Alcohol slows your responses, dulls your judgement and vision and impairs your ability to drive; same goes for illegal drugs.
If you go out to drink with friends, it’s better to let your sober friend (with a driver’s license) drive on the way back home.

4. Control yourself.

Don’t overspeed.
Check your speedometer and don’t go over the speed limits. The faster you go, the harder you’ll hit anything or anyone.
Watch for the speed limits by the side of the road. In some countries, speed cameras are installed and you’ll have to pay a hefty amount of money or worse, crash your car.
Don’t attempt to overtake if you’re not so sure the road is clear.

5. Prep yourself.

Drive wisely in bad weather conditions.
When it rains, make sure your headlights function well and keep them on a dipped beam when necessary.
Slow down especially when you’re on wet and snowy roads; you might skid and topple over.
Drive at least 4 seconds behind the vehicle infront of you and avoid braking and steering sharply.
Make sure to bring an emergency winter kit stocked with cloth, ice scraper, glass cleaner, anti-freeze, kitty litter, jack and wrench.

6. Alert yourself.

Don’t get distracted while driving.
Pay attention to the road and avoid answering your mobile phone or changing a CD or song in your mp3 player. It only takes a split second to overlook potential danger.
Be fully aware of your surroundings and you’ll be able to avoid hazards along the way. Driving is a complicated activity that requires your full concentration.
Cyclists and pedestrians need to be watched out for especially in round abouts and pedestrian crossings.

7. Check yourself.

Inspect gear and vehicle fluids.
Worn out tires may cause serious accidents. Use a tyre pressure gauge to make sure they are also properly inflated and do not have tears.
Do you have enough break fluid? Is there a leak? Check for scheduled check ups on your vehicle.
Also make sure your head lights are cleaned properly and bulbs aren’t blown. You need ample visibility on the road.

Buying Used Japanese Vehicles in New Zealand

2008-11-19T06:48:00.000-08:00

Looking for a cheaper deal? Whether for personal use or business, new vehicles mean more money and during hard times it’s practical to set aside luxury for necessity.

There are lots of ways to get a better bargain. Used Japanese vehicles are a safe bet, since most used vehicles from Japan are fairly in good condition. Buying used Japanese vehicles could be the cheaper and best alternative and here are a few smart tips on how to start.

1. Do your home work.

Search used Japanese vehicles in your local trade magazines, publications or online.

Motohound.co.nz, for instance, is a trusted source of used Japanese vehicles with an extensive inventory to choose from online. You get to search the inventory and also get to choose the dealer depending on your location without worrying about shipping.

Some online and offline publications by Auto Trader, have classified ads of used Japanese imports as well.

If those options still don’t work for you, you may check out IBC Japan. IBC Japan is the leading vehicle exporter in Japan with a wide-ranging vehicle inventory. You can also access their online auction service-iDirect and get to bid daily and purchase vehicles from more than 100 auctions held weekly in Japan, with over 150,000 units to choose from.

2. Review your notes.

Take time to see which vehicles and dealers work better for you while taking into consideration the Freight on board (FOB) and Cost, Insurance and Freight (CIF) fees as they may add up to roughly 10% of the total price.Skim through and check the pictures and vehicle specifications for further reference.Avoid dealers who do not provide condition reports, stolen vehicle checks ,odometer certifications and accident histories.

There could be better sources just around the corner and some local dealers might just have the right models and services you are looking for.

Some online sources include shipping costs on the price of their vehicles but make sure you carefully read and understand the trade terms.A test drive is a must and if you can’t do a test drive on the vehicle you are about to purchase, make sure to buy only from a reputable source.

3. Stock the docs. (pre import)

Before you import, it is pertinent that you check and stock the important documents. Be sure to secure vehicle registration documents and previous ownership records.

Light and heavy vehicles previously registered in Japan must have an original deregistration certificate or export certificate issued by Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MILT)

Make sure to also provide certified translations of all the non-English documents. (eg, bills of sale, purchase receipts etc).

4. Ship wisely. (pre import)

After ordering your vehicle, see to it that you understand the shipping details and options.

Containerization could be a better alternative to Roll-on Roll-off (RoRo) and be sure the company handling this follows the best practices and safety procedures. You wouldn’t want your vehicle to arrive with scratches and dents .

5. Immigrant?

For immigrants who want to import a preregistered vehicle in New Zealand, read here or log on to www.ltsa.govt.nz for other queries.

Vehicles Men and Women Want

2008-11-19T06:14:00.000-08:00

We’ve seen how vehicles evolved through the pictures in history books and museums. They had different forms and functions. However, function wasn’t the only important factor to designers and consumers. Aesthetics and style played crucial and constant roles as well.

Ancient civilizations have started the tradition of designing and embellishing their chariots, wagons and other ancient forms of transportation. Egyptian chariots of gold and silver decorated with date palm branches, animals and other motifs were the most preferred.

Today we see how different people especially the men, choose to buy cars with slick wheels and other parts and accessories. The whole craze is absolutely nothing new and as the famous saying among men goes- “you don’t drive a car, you wear it”. A car can magnify a lot, if not all of the traits of its owners and here some of those clues.

For the women, safety, reliability and value are at the top of their list while men prefer performance, power and style.

According to Imre Molnar, dean of College for Creative Studies (Detroit), men’s desire to showcase power and aggression with the vehicles they drive stems from an “animal nature”. They dress up their vehicles as if it’s “mating season,” he quips. Molnar further elaborates that these attributes of masculine, big wheels, flush or protruding wheel faces and high “shoulder line” and taut lines can be found in most vehicles men drive today. Predator-looking vehicles that sit higher at the back have the “ready to pounce” look and this has become very common among sedans. At the top of the list are vehicles made for looking good and going fast or as Molnar calls them “testosterone show-off devices”.

Studies, however, prove that most women prefer vehicles that are understated, opulent and with a comfy interior.

“Ease of entry and useful interior storage, including space for a purse, are elements that make vehicles especially attractive to women,” states Brigid O’Kane, a design professor and coordinator of the Transportation Design Track program at the University of Cincinnati.

To create a distinctive look, women wear jewelry, high-end fashion and expensive handbags rather than cars while men create an image of wealth and influence by the cars they “wear”.
Buying used vs. buying new: While men are most likely to buy used vehicles if they can’t buy the flashy new one, women are prone to settle for a new affordable car rather than their dream model.
In general, men are more willing to sacrifice a smooth ride for sharp handling than women or to overlook an impractical cargo arrangement for an engine more pep, experts say.
Strategic Vision’s new-vehicle experience study shows that 31 percent of men said driving is one of their favorite things to do, while only 18 percent of women said the same.
According to the experts, SUVs with a “big and powerful” look resonates with men, while small, inexpensive vehicles are preferred by women.

So now you’ve got clues on what vehicles most men and women want. These studies and indicators fairly explain what vehicles both sexes prefer to drive or “wear.”