Tips and Advice

Golf GTI fans would have to be the most loyal bunch of car fanatics around. They are completely obsessed with their cars and anything to do with GTI’s. I used to have a Golf GTI, many years ago, and while I did love it, I wasn’t too interested in buying a new one when it was time to upgrade. I went for something different and am happy with my choice.

I do like to keep up to date with the latest in the world of GTI and was interested to read about the latest showcar which will be on show at an upcoming event. The GTI W12-650 is quite a car:

W12 cylinders, 650 PS (477 kW at 6,000 rpm)
3.7 seconds, 325 km/h, 750 Newton-meter
1.88 meters wide, 235 tires in front, 295 in back
70 millimeters lower, 160 millimeters wider
Carbon-fiber roof is a diffuser
Interior with racing ambitions

Check out the full details and photos over at The Car Blog.

To ensure you get the best deal when purchasing a car, you need to do research. The internet is a great way to research cars available and to get an idea of prices. This information will give you the knowledge to be able to negotiate well and confidently.

How to Buy a Car

Concentrate on the one vehicle. Don’t be swayed by what is on offer or what the salesman says is the best deal. You’ve done your research so you know what you want. Stick with that.

When doing your research, try to find out what the dealer pays for that vehicle. You’ll then know what you can realistically get for the car you want.

Go to all the dealerships which sell that car. Make sure the salesman is aware that you are looking around and comparing prices with other dealers. Let them compete against each other so you get the best deal.

Although salesmen are paid on commission, they are not ‘out to get you’. Their success doesn’t depend on one sale it depends on repeat business, word of mouth, and their reputation. They can’t afford to be dishonest; it’s not good for business.

Look to buy your new car just as the new models are arriving. You can then get last years model (which is in fact still this years model) at a bargain price because the dealership wants to make room for the new models.

Consider buying a slightly used car. A car that is 2 years old will look and run like new, will still be under warranty, and will be around 30% cheaper than a brand new car.

Look out for options to lease a car. This can be cheaper than getting a car loan. This is especially good if you like to trade in your car every couple of years.

After you have made a deal with the sales person, be aware that you will then be sent to another person who will try to sell you add-ons which you may not want or need. Again your research will have shown you what is available and be sure to make your mind up as to what extras you want before you start looking for a car to buy.

The last step in how to buy a car is finance. Talk to a number of financial institutions or a broker before heading out to buy a car. Find the best loan and get it pre-approved.