Posted by on September 7, 2010

Classic Car News: Take Your Classic Car Back To The Future

“The Back To The Future films were classics in their own right” reports Suite101.com, but the car they chose was something even more legendary.  Back in 1985 when the film was first released, the DeLorean DMC-12 was already a pretty unique car, but imagine turning up to a school reunion now in this classic car – you may not have been cool at school but undoubtedly this vintage vehicle will ensure you’re now the king of cool.

The DeLorean, one of the most controversial cars of all time, featured in the Back To The Future trilogies in its much modified state and was created by Formula One design innovator Colin Chapman of Lotus Cars –“ little did he know that the car would become one of the most famous movie cars”, reports Suite101.com.

Imagine getting into trouble before you’re even born! It seems like a pretty difficult task, but Marty McFly managed to do it via the Back To The Future films – and all thanks to the metal marvel of the DeLorean. Vintage cars hold their classic status due to their rare existence, which is why the DeLorean earns its classic title with only around 8,500 DMC-12 cars produced.

Thanks to the films being regularly aired and the likability of the Doc Brown character, “it’s not just middle-aged dads who get a kick from the DeLorean car” reports the Times Online. The hype for the DeLorean was huge back in the 1980′s, but the classic vehicle still had some unflattering reviews, such as being said to be “underpowered”. However, with 130bhp (which seems nothing now), the difference isn’t that significant when compared to the “smog-strangled Corvette of the late seventies” and it’s 165bhp.

The hype generated by the introduction of such a unique vintage motor meant that in 1981 it was going for the kind of money you’d get a Ferrari or Porsche 911 for. It cannot be disputed that the Delorean was a revolutionary car for its time; with the Times Online reporting that “some people even thought it was a kit car” – but it of course was not.

You certainly feel like your back in the past driving one of these cars, with an 85mph speedometer and a three-speed automatic gear-box – taking you back to the 1980′s. The Times Online states that “the whole DeLorean thing is a fascinating chapter in automotive history, and the good news is that it could be around for a while”, with Stephen Wynne  taking on the DeLorean name and rebuilding these vintage cars – making them as good as new.

Make sure your insurance takes you safely to the future by trusting Sureterm Direct to provide you with a competitive tailored classic car insurance policy. Sureterm also offer great kit car insurance policies for those people who like to create their own unique vehicles. Call free on 0800 999 2030 or get an online quote here.

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Posted by on August 28, 2010

Classic Car News: Clamping Down On Flashy Supercars

The sight of two stunning supercars clamped with those hideous bright yellow metal triangular plates is enough to bring tears to your eyes – then again it could be the gaudy bright blue paintjob that should be blamed for making them water. The Top Gear website has reported that the two super-exclusive exotics were clamped right outside Harrods in central London, with a collective value of around £1.8 million.

Needless to say the cost of getting the clamps removed was nothing for the owners of these supercars, considering they own the high-profile department store they were parked outside. The Lamborghini Murcielago LP670-4 SuperVeloce is one of 350 models ever built, but the Koenigsegg CCXR is extremely rare with only six in existence. This would have been a spectacular photo moment had it not been for the clash of yellow and blue.

Crowds of tourists watched in disbelief as a traffic warden wrote out the tickets and clamped both vehicles, which were custom made in the “Al Thani royal family’s distinctive baby blue colour”, according to the Telegraph website.

It’s not just the colour that makes these cars so distinguishing, with the Koenigsegg capable of reaching speeds of up to 249mph and managing 0-60 in 2.9 seconds – that’s a staggering 1,064bhp. The Lamborghini also has an impressive top speed of 213mph and is capable of 0-60 in just 3.2 seconds. Not even these two supercars were a match for a traffic warden, when they came face to bumper with what Top Gear describes as “a creature which feels no pain, fear or pity”.

Although these delicious modern cars aren’t quite as delicate as their classic counterparts, the thought of a clamp damaging any part of these superbly sculptured vehicles is depressing  - and I doubt these brightly coloured wheel ‘accessories’ are going to catch on anytime soon.

 

The thought of having to look for car insurance can be painful, but the fear of having an accident coupled with the lack of pity you will get if your vehicle is hit and don’t have insurance cover just isn’t worth it. Call Sureterm Direct Free on 0800 999 2030 or click here for a competitive classic car insurance quote.

 

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Posted by on August 23, 2010

Classic Car News: Top Gear Prank Blamed For Mimic Stunt

‘Do not try this at home’ is the warning that should be stated after each stunt performed on the hit BBC show, Top Gear. This comes after a pensioner’s Reliant Robin was targeted twice in one day, where it is believed that yobs were “recreating a stunt from the motoring show”, according to the Daily Mail website.

The classic Reliant Robin was found by the distressed owner on Sunday night – just two and a half hours after the Top Gear show was broadcast, reports the Telegraph website. The vintage motor suffered a smashed wing mirror, scratched paintwork and damaged one door beyond repair, with a an estimated repair bill of £1,000.

The retired owner of the classic car, who has owned Reliant Robins for 40 years, says he believes the vandals were inspired by the episode of Top Gear where Clarkson repeatedly flips a Reliant Robin on its side and speeds round corners.

“Ridiculous, irresponsible and dangerous”, are the words used to describe the antics of the hit TV show host, who is no stranger to controversy and who describes himself as an “equal opportunities loudmouth”.

The BBC show, which combines extensive fanatic car news with (at times) childish yet amusing stunts, seems to have lost one viewer, but due to the constant entertainment value and high profile guests, I doubt this unfortunate copycat behaviour will hamper the ratings for the Sunday night show.

For a chance to win FREE tickets to the Classic Motor Show at the NEC, from the 12th to the 14th November, simply click here and fill in our straightforward online form.

 

 

Protect your classic car from the devastating aftermath of damage or theft by calling Sureterm Direct Free on 0800 999 2030 or simply clicking here for an online competitive classic car insurance quote.

 

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Posted by on August 8, 2010

Classic Car News: Bringing Classic Back

Saab claim to be “bringing quirky back” reports PistonHeads.com, through the revamp of the classic 99/900, which is inspiring the creation of the new 9-3. It can be argued that Saab is also bringing sexy back using the spirit of the old Saab and utilising its “quirky roots”.

Spyker might have only just got their hands on the Saab legacy, but already the new owner Mr Victor Muller has big plans for the company, saying “within two years, the entire production line-up will be renewed”. Some might say these are big plans for such a small company, in fact these are almost the exact words reported on Top Gear, who have reported that “Saab globally sells 100,000 – 150,000 cars, while the likes of Mercedes, BMW and Audi do 10 times that amount”. In order for Mr Muller to get the success he believes is possible all of us car enthusiasts need more than just sentiment for this classic car maker, which Top Gear believe the simple answer is “people just need to start buying Saabs again”.

According to Dutch car news website Autointernationaal, “Spyker wants to bring back the essence of the old Saab 99/900 series with the next 9-3”. With additional body styles and using the Vauxhall Astra platform and its turbocharged 1.4-litre motor you should expect this new car to be here sooner rather than later.

TopGear.com reports that it’s a tough job to be distinctive when you’re a “small company who can’t afford its own proper engineering”, which is why with the injection of £347 million, approved by the European Investment Bank, Saab will have the fuel and resources to “develop and build fine cars” placing them in the position of being a credible rival to BMW and Audi.

Since the deal has been made between General Motors and Spyker there has been a lot of scepticism about the future of the Saab name, but the million dollar question is, can Saab attract customers back to the classic brand and make a profit? According to BBC News, Mr Muller of Saab has high hopes for the company and believes that “the main reason why we think Saab will succeed is its unique brand”.

If you want to bring back the essence of classic cars, trust Sureterm Direct to provide you with a tailored classic car insurance policy for your vintage vehicle and head out on the open road in style. Call free on 0800 999 2030 or get an online quote here.

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Posted by on July 26, 2010

How Audi Used Revolutionary Styling To Produce A Design Classic

The Audi TT may seem as out of the reach of normal road goers. Unlike its German brothers however it creates an affordable opportunity to those who want all the benefits of a German made sports car without the extortionate price. If considering an Audi TT I would advise to look at the used car market as often a bargain can be had.


The Audi TT first made an appearance as a concept car at the German Motor Show in 1995 where it won many awards. The styling is regarded by experts as the avant garde of a new design revolution. Its bold curved design was innovative in nature and turned heads wherever it went. For those looking at a used model there has been a new generation released recently; as this has updated the styling somewhat used car prices are sure to fall.


The car reinvented Audi as a company; before the TT many had seen Audi as a company who purely produced rather dull saloon cars. After this design classic was released the popularity of Audi grew and its other ‘S’ models became increasingly fashionable. A used Audi does not depreciate greatly and for those who want a slice of luxury and style they make an enticing option.


The low powered Audi TT used a front wheel drive system although later and more powerful models used Audi’s famous ‘Quattro’ four wheeled drive system. This gives unbelievable road holding qualities and great cornering ability. However the TT was subject to an investigation after it was found to be somewhat unstable when cornering at high speeds. As a result a recall occurred where spoilers were used and suspension settings were altered.


If in the market for a used Audi TT there are numerous engine options available dependent upon how much power you require and how fast you actually want to go. One major consideration however should be go for the convertible model, ideal for touring the countryside with the wind in your hair it makes a brilliant soft top sports car.


The high quality of the interior is testament to German manufacturing; the materials used in the cars construction ooze quality and refinement and make the cabin a sumptuous space to be in. Less impressive however are the rear seats that can be considered an afterthought at best.


While there is little chance of an adult fitting in the back comfortably, there is adequate room for smaller children. The Audi TT was never designed to be a family car though so the lack of rear space is not a great concern.


Although the handling and gearbox have been criticised by some commentators it should be realised that both are deliberate. Some have said the steering is somewhat pedestrian but Audi made the car to have light steering to make city driving easier; despite the protestations of die hard motor enthusiasts. The six speed gearbox has been criticised for losing power at the wrong times but again this is deliberate and an integral part of the six speed nature. Getting used to the gearbox is all part of the TT experience.


Whatever critics have said about the TT it remains one of the most popular sports cars on the road today. Audi can consider it an unbridled success that has brought the company out of a slump at put it at the forefront of revolutionary design. There is little doubt that if Audi had not produced the TT the new gorgeously styled R8 would never have come into existence.


No matter what your opinion on the TT it is hard to argue against the fact that it a design classic and one of the seminal cars of the last thirty years.How Audi used revolutionary styling to produce a design classic


A look at the good and bad points of the TT and why it can be considered a revolution in car design.


The Audi TT may seem as out of the reach of normal road goers. Unlike its German brothers however it creates an affordable opportunity to those who want all the benefits of a German made sports car without the extortionate price. If considering an Audi TT I would advise to look at the used car market as often a bargain can be had.


The Audi TT first made an appearance as a concept car at the German Motor Show in 1995 where it won many awards. The styling is regarded by experts as the avant garde of a new design revolution. Its bold curved design was innovative in nature and turned heads wherever it went. For those looking at a used model there has been a new generation released recently; as this has updated the styling somewhat used car prices are sure to fall.


The car reinvented Audi as a company; before the TT many had seen Audi as a company who purely produced rather dull saloon cars. After this design classic was released the popularity of Audi grew and its other ‘S’ models became increasingly fashionable. A used Audi does not depreciate greatly and for those who want a slice of luxury and style they make an enticing option.


The low powered Audi TT used a front wheel drive system although later and more powerful models used Audi’s famous ‘Quattro’ four wheeled drive system. This gives unbelievable road holding qualities and great cornering ability. However the TT was subject to an investigation after it was found to be somewhat unstable when cornering at high speeds. As a result a recall occurred where spoilers were used and suspension settings were altered.


If in the market for a used Audi TT there are numerous engine options available dependent upon how much power you require and how fast you actually want to go. One major consideration however should be go for the convertible model, ideal for touring the countryside with the wind in your hair it makes a brilliant soft top sports car.


The high quality of the interior is testament to German manufacturing; the materials used in the cars construction ooze quality and refinement and make the cabin a sumptuous space to be in. Less impressive however are the rear seats that can be considered an afterthought at best. While there is little chance of an adult fitting in the back comfortably, there is adequate room for smaller children. The Audi TT was never designed to be a family car though so the lack of rear space is not a great concern.


Although the handling and gearbox have been criticised by some commentators it should be realised that both are deliberate. Some have said the steering is somewhat pedestrian but Audi made the car to have light steering to make city driving easier; despite the protestations of die hard motor enthusiasts. The six speed gearbox has been criticised for losing power at the wrong times but again this is deliberate and an integral part of the six speed nature. Getting used to the gearbox is all part of the TT experience.


Whatever critics have said about the TT it remains one of the most popular sports cars on the road today. Audi can consider it an unbridled success that has brought the company out of a slump at put it at the forefront of revolutionary design. There is little doubt that if Audi had not produced the TT the new gorgeously styled R8 would never have come into existence. No matter what your opinion on the TT it is hard to argue against the fact that it a design classic and one of the seminal cars of the last thirty years.

Motoring expert Thomas Pretty looks into the sports car market and sees why a used Audi TT is the smartest choice. To find out more please visit http://www.audi-trader.co.uk/

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