How to choose a car

Many people have dreamed or are dreaming about purchasing a car. If there is a certain amount of money, then it's time to buy, but you need to understand how to choose a car so as not to make the wrong choice, since owning bad vehicles leads to massive expenses. The choice should be made based on your own needs, and it is also important to determine for yourself the level of comfort and other operational parameters. All the intricacies will be discussed in the article.

The device and the principle of operation of machines

Today, there is a lot of transport in cities, because with the help of a car you can travel long distances at high speed, as well as transport people or various objects. The machine is used for business as well as personal needs. And any type of transport includes the following basic elements:

• body;
• salon;
• steering;
• dashboard;
• transmission;
• glass;
• motor;
• suspension;
• brakes;
• lighting;
• wheels.

If you know how a car works, you can understand what elements are important to look at when buying. The main part can be considered the "heart" of the car - the engine. With its help, many manipulations are carried out, starting from the launch, but if it fails, then the repair turns out to be one of the most expensive work. Starting the engine is impossible without a starter, which gives a jolt, and it is driven by the battery.

After starting, a continuous process begins:

• Air penetrates through valves into individual chambers.
• Fuel is pumped into the combustion chamber.
• The mixture is compressed with the help of pistons.
• A spark comes to sparks, which ignites gasoline.
• Due to its combustion, energy is released, which makes it possible to push the piston back.
• Stable rotation is carried out using the crankshaft, to which all major parts are attached.
• Due to the injection of fuel during the pressure on the gas pedal, the rotation speed is increased.
• Using the gearbox, the desired driving mode is selected based on the speed and rpm. Such a unit moves using gears of different sizes.
• Rotation to the wheels is given by the propeller shaft, which can be on the front or rear axle, based on the drive.
• To maintain a smooth ride, an even position of the body on bumps and reduce shake-up, a suspension is installed.

A heating system (stove) is often installed in the cabin, and there may also be an air conditioner to maintain the required temperature in summer. Optical devices help to see the road at night. The braking system, which is activated by pressing the corresponding pedal, works by compressing and unclenching the pads to the discs, they also transmit the force to the wheels.

Machine selection parameters

To know how to choose the right car, you need to understand the basic parameters of any vehicle that you need to pay attention to.

Engine capacity

The power unit of any machine plays a very important role, allowing machinery to move in different conditions.When choosing cars, you need to know several basic indicators, including the volume of cylinders in the range of 1-5 liters. The higher the value, the stronger the fuel consumption will be, but also the power increases, as well as the tax charges. The following options can be distinguished:

• Subcompact engines up to 1.2 liters are convenient for leisurely driving in city conditions, especially when there are children in the cabin. Fuel consumption 5-7 liters.
• Engines up to 1.6 liters are suitable for family vehicles.
• If you need to move quickly and confidently pick up speed, overtake other cars on the track, then it is better to look towards the 1.8-2.5 liter engines.
• Engines from 2.7 liters are often used in fast cars and SUVs.

Power

You can determine the potential of a power unit by understanding the power of a car, which is measured in horsepower. Often, the indicator starts from 60-70 hp, less often less and can be up to 160 or more. The speed of development of revolutions depends on this, which affects acceleration. For example, for some cars to overtake on the track, it is enough to press the gas pedal and perform the maneuver in a couple of seconds, while the latter need 10 or more seconds.

In addition to the speed, the power depends on the traction that the transport gives when going up the mountain or if driving on a loose surface. Experts advise using the following parameters:

• A motor up to 80 hp is suitable for measured driving in urban conditions or outside the city.
• Taxi drivers, couriers and similar services, who need to be on the spot on time, should use cars with up to 100 hp.
• Fans of fishing, hunting or ordinary travelers, where there may be off-road and other coverage, it is recommended to buy a car with engines from 110 hp.

Maximum speed

You can determine the approximate time on the road not only by the quality of coverage, but also by the speed of the car. For example, if you are driving on autobahns where a high speed limit is allowed, it is recommended to buy models with 250 km / h or more on the speedometer.

For city driving, in compliance with all the rules, motors with any power can be used so that the transport can gain 60-80 km / h. A buyer who needs to periodically go out of town can choose brands that develop speeds up to 180 km / h.

Fuel for the engine

No less important factors when choosing will be the type of fuel that the car runs on:

• Diesels are cheaper to refuel while driving. The engines themselves are less whimsical in maintenance and fuel quality, they fail less often than gasoline ones. The main plus is the high traction force, which makes it possible to simplify the transportation of a large number of people and goods. The main drawback is the speed, which is slightly lower than its counterparts running on gasoline. Despite this, modern models almost do not differ in dynamics. Diesel vehicles are often used as working equipment.
• Gasoline engines are more expensive if refueled, but they have more dynamics. When it comes to maintenance, it is more expensive because there are many parts that need to be replaced more often. These engines are suitable as a company or family car.
• Gas is a special installation for gasoline engines, which makes it possible to save on fuel, but the traction force and dynamics are reduced.
• Electric motors are a modern design that is gaining popularity. The operation is completely silent, it is made from batteries, and for refueling you need a simple power supply (socket). The main plus is environmental friendliness, exhaust gases do not enter the atmosphere, and the user also gets the cheapest refueling. The main disadvantage is the distance limit, which depends on the power of the batteries. The average power reserve will be 100-150 km. Therefore, it is recommended to buy electric cars for urban movement, and for long trips, you need to study the map of charging stations along the way.

Fuel consumption

When choosing a car, you must understand fuel consumption.Depending on the brand and volume of the engine, it can use 3-15 liters of fuel per 100 km. This information will help you provide approximate post-purchase refueling costs:

• For constant movement around the city, it is recommended to choose a vehicle with an average consumption of up to 7 liters.
• For taxi drivers, subcompact engines with a consumption of about 6 liters of gasoline or diesel will turn out to be best in terms of profit, but if there is a gas installation, about 10 liters of gas will be acceptable in terms of profitability.
• For work, when you need to transport permanent loads, you should be prepared that the equipment will consume about 10-12 liters.
• SUVs are often equipped with powerful engines, so consumption starts from 12-13 liters.

Injection type

The combustion of fuel and its supply is provided by injection, of which there are 2 options. In the first case, a carburetor, with its help, gasoline is sucked in, after which it is slowly sprayed. The injection is the simplest, it is cheap to repair, but it is unstable and requires constant adjustments. Operation can be affected by atmospheric pressure, fuel quality and other factors.

The second option is the injector, which provides the smallest possible atomization, is characterized by stability of operation, which affects the power and evenness of traction. This parameter is very important for long-term travel, as well as operation in mountains, sands and other similar conditions. The main disadvantage is costly repairs.

Transmission

When driving a car, the engine is constantly running at different speeds. The gearbox is responsible for this. Based on the model and design solutions, a mechanical or automatic transmission can be installed. The first type requires the driver to constantly perform speed changes by shifting the lever. The main advantage is that a person can get under way faster and make an active overtaking. The second type independently determines everything and selects the optimal speed. But the dynamics are a little weaker, often girls choose cars with automatic transmission.

Drive unit

With the help of the cardan shaft, the wheels begin to rotate, depending on the drive, only the rear or front axle can rotate, as well as all 4 wheels at the same time. The features are as follows:

• On vehicles with rear wheel drive, acceleration can be achieved more quickly as the vehicle is pushed forward. This design consumes a little less fuel, but in the case of driving onto a wet and smooth surface, it can be driven off the road. The same thing happens with a sharp start. Best of all, this kind of transport is suitable for calm people who often ride on dry surfaces.
• Front-wheel drive makes it possible to maintain a flat path of movement as much as possible. It is characterized by better maneuverability, it is easier to drive the transport, but if it falls into a large pit, the track will come into close contact with the bottom, there are risks of getting stuck. Most of all, front-wheel drive is suitable for urban conditions.
• There is a plug-in drive that is often used for SUVs. During normal operation, the front or rear axle turns, but if the vehicle gets on sand, mud and other loose surfaces, a second pair (differential) is connected. After passing the site, everything is automatically turned off. Very convenient for those who like hunting and fishing.
• All-wheel drive cars are characterized by the constant rotation of all wheels, and they are independent from one another.

Suspension type

The suspension is responsible for driving performance, it also allows you to maintain the position of the body on an uneven track. With a sound design, passengers in the cabin can remain comfortable and level, even if the road surface is of poor quality. In addition, it provides optimal down-pressure when cornering, which eliminates runoff.

It is customary to distinguish 2 types of suspension:

• Hydraulic - shock absorbers are used in the structure, with oil or gas filling, there can be combined types.Additional springs make it possible to hold the body in the desired position under heavy load. In pickups, springs are often installed, giving additional rigidity and the ability to carry a lot of weight. This type of suspension is easy to repair.
• Pneumatic - includes 4 stands with cushions or air chambers. This type cannot completely compensate for dips, but it helps to set the desired height with the help of air.

Body type

The body shape of any vehicle is very different from each other. The convenience for passengers in the cabin depends on it, as well as the possibility of transporting large loads:

• The pickups visually resemble a regular jeep, but an open compartment is installed in the rear, in which you can transport any cargo, animals. Such a trunk is closed with special plastic covers, but often the cars are used by farmers or in economic activities.
• Crossovers or SUVs are characterized by large dimensions, comfortable and spacious interior, as well as high ground clearance, which gives the required off-road capability. This type of body is often bought to emphasize status, as well as outdoor activities.
• Sedans are the most common of all shapes. Such cars can accommodate 4-5 people in the cabin. An excellent choice for families and taxi drivers. Large models are used as official vehicles for transporting politicians, businessmen and other status people.
• Station wagons and minivans - a subspecies of the sedan, but longer in size, which is characterized by a large capacity of the luggage compartment. There are often 3 rows of seating for 6-7 people, which is beneficial for a large family or business.
• Another type of body that comes from the sedan is the hatchback. This model differs from the station wagon in the shortened luggage compartment. It is recommended to buy similar vehicles for families and couriers. It is characterized by its small size and maneuverability.
• The compartment is considered a youth transport, since 2 people are fully seated in it. But there are often cases of placing people in the back row through the front ones with the help of reclining seats. A good choice for daily commuting. The equipment is small, convenient for parking and moving in heavy traffic.

Trunk volume

Very few people pay attention to the useful volume of the luggage compartment, but it is recommended to take this factor into account for future work. If the size is small, then you will need to carry some of the things in the cabin or buy a roof rack. The recommended norms are as follows:

• For ordinary movement around the city, for work and for performing ordinary tasks, a volume of up to 400 liters will be optimal. This amount of space is enough for store purchases.
• If, after the purchase, gas is installed, then it should be noted that the cylinder will take up a lot of space, which means that it is better to choose a trunk for 500 liters or more.
• Permanent long-distance travel with a full cabin of people and large luggage requires a capacity of about 600 liters.
• To transport large items, including some furniture or equipment for athletes, you should opt for a roof rack of 900 liters.

Some cars can quickly transform with the help of the folding rear row of seats, which helps to increase the useful area of ​​the luggage compartment. There are separate handles for this, if there is no function, then you need to completely remove the seat. Such a transformation is useful when transporting bulky or long items.

Types of cars

Knowing the basic parameters of the choice, you should consider the types of vehicles, based on which, you can simplify the search for the desired car.

Russian

This group includes transport, which is one of the cheapest for people at the time of purchase and service. Often they choose between VAZ and UAZ.For several years now, the model range has been significantly increasing, an attractive design has appeared, the permeability and the level of comfort have improved. The domestic manufacturer already offers not only sedan cars, but also crossovers and SUVs. This technique is great for daily use or work.

Pros:

• Affordable cost.
• Inexpensive repair.
• The presence of different types of body.
• Strong body made of good metal.

Minuses:

• The look is pretty simple.
• Small resource of motors.
• Average performance.

Korean and Chinese

This group of cars is a little more expensive, but is in great demand and popularity. The new transport will be in almost the same price range as the Russian one, but inside there are more controls, richer equipment and a more beautiful design. These options are perfect for taxis, delivery, or families.

Pros:

• Parts are available and cost little.
• You can get maintenance and repairs at any service.
• Low fuel consumption.
• Large selection of models by class.
• Many cars have air conditioning.
• Optimum ground clearance and wheel size.
• Beautiful external data.

Minuses:

• Corrosion pockets quickly appear on the wings and arches.
• There are many non-original parts and fakes on sale.

Japanese

All Japanese cars are more expensive. It is generally accepted that they are not only very beautiful, thoughtful, but also reliable and durable. Among the most common brands are Mazda, Nissan, Toyota, Honda. Such a purchase will be an excellent choice for families, as well as those who need executive class service vehicles. In addition, the technique is suitable for VIP taxis. If you provide proper care and maintenance, then the transport will serve for more than 30 years without severe breakdowns.

Pros:

• Powerful and durable motors.
• Large resource of machines in general.
• High quality electrician with a lot of elements.
• Excellent aerodynamic properties.
• High degree of security.
• Strong body.
• Beautiful design.

Minuses:

• It is difficult to find a good service that can make quality repairs.
• The high price of spare parts and not always available.
• If non-original parts are used, then the service life is significantly reduced, and there are also risks of ruining the entire assembly.

European

A lot of vehicles of different brands fall into this segment. There are executive class, middle class, budget class and others. This makes it possible to choose a car to transport politicians, businessmen, families or cargo. European technology is characterized by high quality and long service life.

Pros:

• All motors with long service life and high reliability.
• Large lineup.
• When buying a new car, a long-term guarantee.
• The presence of electronics to control various systems.
• Large salon.
• There are additional features and capabilities.
• High degree of security.

Minuses:

• The high cost of renovation work.
• Overpriced for luxury brands.

A few tips for choosing

Since the acquisition of any car is a serious procedure with some specifics, you will need to be as vigilant as possible. The seller will never tell about the shortcomings on transport and during the inspection you need to ask as many questions as possible. Experts identify several recommendations that simplify the purchase and ownership of quality vehicles:

• You need to select a car from the amount you can count on, the main parameters, comfort and other features will depend on this. It is important to remember that after the purchase it is imperative to register, to do the initial maintenance. If there is an opportunity to wait a bit, to collect money, then it is better to take the moment and buy a better car than to regret it later.
• When choosing, you need to look at the power and volume of the engine, as this will indicate the approximate fuel consumption and dynamics. If you plan to install gas, it is important to determine the approximate mileage per month or year, the cost of installing equipment and the feasibility of such an investment.
• After calculating the funds, it is important to understand whether to buy a used car or from the salon. In new technology, apart from working fluids and elementary procedures, nothing needs to be changed for about 3-5 years. The ride will be more comfortable, but there are no significant disadvantages. Used cars are significantly lower in price, may be of better equipment, but require more frequent repairs. In this case, both options are good, you need to focus on personal tastes and opportunities.
• When buying 1 car in life, many advise taking inexpensive models that will not be a pity in the event of a minor accident and other troubles, but a new or high-quality supported car will require a more careful attitude.
• When choosing a car brand, you should study in detail the user reviews, equipment, as well as the availability and availability of replacement parts. Fuel consumption, interior and luggage compartment dimensions will be equally important factors. On the forums, you can find out the main shortcomings, breakdowns and other details of the selected brand. If the purchase is planned in the salon, then you should wait for the promotions in order to save a small amount of funds. Spring is considered the best time to purchase.
• If you have a question about which car to choose for a woman, then the best option would be a small car, in which you can put a child or install a chair for him. Fuel consumption in this case will be small, a luggage compartment for bags from the store is required, as well as minimal costs for parts in case of repair. Small cars for women are conveniently sized for easy parking and driving. It is best to focus on models with power steering and automatic transmission.
• The color is chosen according to personal convictions, but experts do not recommend buying bright shades. In addition, dust and dirt are more visible on a dark color, and in the summer the body is more heated.

Which car to choose

Answering the question, which car is better to choose, you should be guided by the conditions of its use. For simplicity, you can use the following guidelines:

• As a family transport for up to 4 people, a low-power sedan is quite suitable, up to about 80 hp. with an engine volume of 1.2-1.4 liters. In this case, the optimal speed on the highway will be achieved, the consumption in the city is up to 7 liters, and for things there will be about 400 liters, which is enough even for traveling.
• If the transport is chosen for a taxi, then it is best to buy station wagons, which will have an engine of about 1.6 liters with gas equipment and a capacity of up to 100 hp. Fuel consumption will be about 10 liters on gas, and the trunk will accommodate many things that passengers have.
• For lovers of frequent and long trips over long distances, crossovers with powerful motors of about 110 hp, which run on diesel or gasoline, are recommended. They easily pick up speed, are characterized by excellent cross-country ability, a spacious luggage compartment, and the ability to connect a differential.
• For work, transporting goods and other activities, it is best to take diesel pickups with an approximately 2-liter engine. To increase cross-country ability choose models with all-wheel drive.
• For young people who prefer entertainment, a coupe body with a power unit of approximately 1.8 liters and rear-wheel drive is suitable.

If we talk about cost, it all depends on the brand, model and type of vehicle. In average sedans and station wagons, it will turn out to be from 300-500 thousand rubles. well maintained and with a beautiful view. For crossovers, you need to pay about 1.3 million rubles. and more. Pickups and other cars will cost over 1.6 million rubles.