Car Dealership Washing Business

If you own a auto detailing business, pressure washing company or mobile car wash you may wish to look into periodic cleaning of car dealership lots. This can be very lucrative as it is a high-volume periodic business. Most car dealerships rinse off their cars on their lots twice a week. Some three times a week and at minimum they know they must clean these cars at least once per week. Dirty cars do not sell and car dealerships know this.

Our company is in the business of washing fleets of vehicles. We have been in the washing business for over twenty years. Our dealership division specializes lot washing and in new and pre-owned car detailing. If you can secure the lot washing contract there is a good chance that you can eventually bundle detailing services into the loop. What should you charge for lot washing? Well, 20% less than that of the competition, you will make your money by securing the entire dealership row thru economies of scale. In some markets where weather is an issue, you will want to charge upwards of $1.50 per car and $1.90 for each SUV per wash at large dealerships and small used car lots up to $2.50.

Once you secure the detailing contract you may wish to charge:

Used Car Detailing $79.00 each car (Engine, Interior, Exterior)

New Car Preparation $25.00 each car (To Your Specs.)

Customer Car Washing $ 9.00 each car (Complete Wash)

Lot Washing twice a week $ .85 each car (If Requested)

You must also alert your Auto Dealership customers that:

* You can wash on the day and time of their choice.

* Every vehicle will be completely dried off so there will be no water spots!

* They will have convenient monthly invoicing itemized by vehicle number

* That you are professional and friendly clean cut crews

* That your crews are first class outfit with new equipment

* That your company is fully insured! ($1 Million total liability)

* You supply our own water!

You must make sure your customer knows that matching your service to their dealership’s needs and saving them time and money is what you specialize in! Think on this.

"Lance Winslow" - Online Think Tank forum board. If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance; www.WorldThinkTank.net/. Lance is a guest writer for Our Spokane Magazine in Spokane, Washington

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lance_Winslow

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Posted by manung36, Monday, January 7, 2008 3:07 AM | 0 comments |

Alternatives To Car Dealership Financing!

There are traditional banks and lenders offering car loans and non traditional lenders too offering car loans for people with bad credit or financial difficulties. Thus anyone seeking finance to purchase a car can get approved with significantly lower costs than financing with a car dealership the purchase of the vehicle.

Car Dealership Financing’s Drawbacks

Financing through a car dealership can be extremely expensive. The interest rate charge by dealerships is almost doubling the interest rate charged by traditional lenders. These high prices are due to the fact that when you resort to car dealerships for financing there is a third party that provides the funds. Thus you are paying for the services of two roles: The actual lender and the intermediary.

Besides, car dealerships only offer financing for the cars that they sell. Thus, your options as regards to brands and models are limited. And if you happen to find a private lender offering for sale the car of your dreams at a very advantageous price, you can never resort to a car dealership in order to get the funds for purchasing the car.

Traditional Lenders and Banks

Banks and traditional lenders offer finance for car purchases at very reasonable rates. Car loans are secured loans and thus carry low interest rates compared to personal loans that are unsecured. However, in order to get approved you need to show proof of a clean credit report and a steady income that will let you afford the monthly payments.

A car loan offered by a traditional lender will let you purchase any car you want and also if you visit car dealerships after getting approved for a car loan you can always bargain the price of the cars with the dealer and have more options as to the brand and model of the car that you’ll purchase.

Non Traditional Lenders

Car loans offered by non traditional lenders provide financing for those with irregular credit and income situations. You need to always show proof of a suitable income, but you don’t need to prove that you’ve been in the same job for many years or that your wage is deposited into your bank account.

Besides, the credit requirements are relaxed and anyone can get approved for a car loan as long as there are no mayor delinquencies in their recent credit history. Someone with bad credit, no credit at all or even a past bankruptcy on his credit report can obtain car loan financing through these non traditional lenders.

Where to Find Them?

The best way to obtain finance through a non traditional car loan lender is to seek lenders online. You can do a quick search for bad credit car loans online and you’ll find many online lenders willing to offer you finance regardless of your credit. You may have to face slightly higher rates but the monthly payments are always affordable enough so any budgets with a regular income can meet them without sacrifices.

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Jess Peterson writes finance articles for Yourloanservices.com where she shares her knowledge about how to get money for a starting-up business, consolidating any kind of debt, repairing a home even with a bad credit history and other financial subjects.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jess_Peterson

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Posted by manung36, 3:05 AM | 0 comments |

Is a No Haggle Dealership for You

In 1990, General Motors capitalized on consumer's intense dislike of the auto purchasing process and introduced the Saturn. Saturns were, and are still, sold at a flat price with no dickering, dealing or haggling. Today, almost 25% of car buyers purchase vehicles from flat price, or no-haggle, dealerships. But are they truly saving money?

At no-haggle dealerships, cars are priced at a flat rate that typically includes a standard options package and a built in profit for the dealer. Additional options may be sold in flat-rate packages or a la carte. At regular dealerships, cars are displayed with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price but everything including options, warranty, financing and dealer profit is negotiable.

Research has shown that educated consumers pay much less for cars at regular dealerships than at no-haggle dealerships. This is because regular dealers set average profit goals over time. For example, if they sell five cars, the average profit per car should be a certain amount, say $1,000. That means of those five cars, three could sell for $1000 profit, but the dealer could make $2000 and $0 profit on the remaining two cars and still hit their goal. At a no-haggle dealership, the profit goal is fixed per car, meaning that while you will not pay $1000 more because you have poor negotiating skills, you will also not save $1000 if you have good ones.

There are certain people who historically do benefit from purchasing cars from no-haggle dealerships. Young adults, women and minorities in particular, have historically paid higher prices than other groups at regular auto dealerships and may benefit from no-haggle pricing. In fact, reacting to the trend of more and more young people turning to no-haggle dealerships for their automobile purchases, Toyota introduced the Scion in 2003. The Scion is a small car that comes with trendy options packages and is priced and marketed directly at young people who don't want to negotiate to purchase their car.

Therefore, if you are willing to do the research and confident in your negotiation skills, you will almost certainly save money at a regular dealership unless you want a Saturn or Scion. Then you'll have to pay the same price as everyone else. However, if you're timid, too busy to research or spend time making a deal, or in one of the groups that historically are offered worse deals, you may be better off at a no-haggle dealership.

Jonathon Hardcastle writes articles on many topics including Automotive, Outdoors, and Business

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jonathon_Hardcastle

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Posted by manung36, 3:04 AM | 0 comments |

The Best Places to Shop in Las Vegas

While Las Vegas might be known for the gambling and casinos, you can't look past all of the shopping choices available to the traveler in Vegas. There are plenty of places to go shopping in Las Vegas, and though you might lose some money in the shops - at least you'll have something to take home with you - something the blackjack table might forget to do.

The Strip has a ton of shopping options for you. Most of the mega-resort casinos have some sort of shopping mall connected to their casinos.

Caesar's Palace has the Forum Shops connected to the casino. It's a popular place for tourists and locals alike to hang out, grab a bite to eat or shop. Store include everything from GapKids and Guess? to Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Burberry among it's 150 shops. Restaurants include the popular Planet Hollywood and the Cheesecake Factory. Or if you're looking for something a little different you can get sushi at Sushi Roku or try Wolfgang Puck's Spago. There are shops for everyone here, or you it's a good place to people watch or check out the fountain shows.

Across the street from the Forum Shops are the Grand Canal Shoppes at the Venetian. This gigantic mall has canals with gondolas just like the city of Venice. you can stroll the cobblestone streets or hitch a ride in one of the gondolas. Either way, there are a ton of shops and restaurants to enjoy as well as numerous street performers throughout the mall. One of the neat things about the Grand Canal Shoppes is that the ceiling is painted like and lit like the sky - so along with the canals it almost feels like you are strolling the streets of Venice.

If you're playing Paris Hilton for a day and feel as though the Gap, Anthropologie, and similar stores are below you, head over to the Wynn or the Bellagio. The stores in these spots are definately for the shopper who doesn't care. At these spots you'll find Chanel, Christian Dior, Manolo Blahnik as well as a bunch of other stores named after French guys with names that are hard to pronounce. And don't stop at clothing, in the Wynn be sure to stop at the Ferrari Maserati dealership located in the casino.

Fashion Show Mall is located on the corner of Spring Mountain and Las Vegas Blvd. (the Strip). This mall located in the middle of the strip is like any other mall with hundreds of stores to choose from. The only difference is that, well, there's a fashion show at various times throughout the day. You've seen them on t.v., the models strutting down walkways - well now you can see it live. Not only that, but the Fashion Show Mall is a great place to stop and rest and take a break from the heat if you're hiking the strip.

Not too far from the strip are two outlet malls - both of which you can catch shuttles to from numerous casinos and hotels. The Las Vegas Premium Outlets are located north of the strip, close to downtown. This outlet mall contains your standard outlet mall fare - Polo, Calvin Klein, Ann Taylor. This is an outdoor mall - so it's a little tough in the hottest months, but extremely pleasant during the winter, spring, and fall months. The other outlet center, called Las Vegas Outlet Center is located south on Las Vegas Blvd. and is completely indoors. Again - standard outlet mall fare includes Coach, Addidas, and Tommy Hilfiger. There is also a giant carousel that the kiddies might enjoy.

Come to Las Vegas and get your gamble on - but don't forget to save a few chips, time, and energy for the many shopping experiences that Sin City has to offer.

Patrick Treadway is a writer living in Las Vegas. He is editor of Vegas24Seven - The Las Vegas Webzine.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Patrick_Treadway

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Posted by manung36, 3:03 AM | 0 comments |

Free Things To Do In Las Vegas - Free Fun Things To Do In Las Vegas at Las Vegas Hotel Attractions

Many people think travelling to Las Vegas involves spending a lot of money. This is part one of my collection of articles centred on free things to do in Las Vegas. This article will discuss free things to do in Las Vegas all centred around free Las Vegas hotel attractions that you can enjoy without affecting your holiday budget.

If you can't afford to travel the world then a trip to Las Vegas is the next best thing. The reason for that is that Las Vegas hotels are like a mini trip around the world. If you feel like a mini trip to Egypt, visit the Aladdin and Luxor; if your taste is Italy then visit Bellagio and the Venetian; if you want to see a bit of Rome head over to Caesars Palace; if you have a taste for the South American nightlife then take a walk to Rio. Of course, I can't forget to mention a romantic walk in the moonlight in Paris or the chance to catch the skyscrapers at New York.

And while you're there catch the many free things to do in Las Vegas at its breathtaking glitterati of stunning hotel displays.

Aladdin - the magnificent rain display

Bally's Hotel - water, sound and light show

Barbary Coast Hotel - Big Elvis

Bellagio - breathtaking hotel lobby

Bellagio - world famous fountain show

Bellagio - botanical garden

Bellagio - chocolate fountain

Caesars Palace - Quiz Caesar & Cleopatra about historical events

Caesars Palace - circular aquarium

Caesars Palace - Caesars Palace Forum Shops - Lost City of Atlantis Show

Caesars Palace - Caesars Magical Empire - catacombs and special effects

Circus Circus - Adventuredome. The world's largest indoor adventure park. Free to walk around. Charges for rides, etc.

Excalibur - Court jester performances and medieval acts

Flamingo - Famous for its flamingos and penguin wildlife exhibit

Golden Nugget - Houses the world's largest gold nugget

Hard Rock Hotel - rock memorabilia exhibit & tour

Harrah's - free open air concerts

Hilton - out of space décor

Imperial Palace - describes itself to be the World's Largest Classic Car Showroom. Free coupon available on website.

Las Vegas Hilton - Star Trek The Experience

Luxor - famous for the world's brightest light beam

Main Street Station - artefacts and antiques exhibit

Mandalay Bay - outside walls art

Mandalay Bay - Exotic Bird Show

Mandalay Bay - House of Blues - The world famous establishment of the late Jim Belushi and Dan Aykroyd.

MGM Grand - Lion Habitat exhibit

Mirage - White Tiger enclosure

Mirage - Erupting volcano

Mirage - Coral reef aquarium

Mirage - Continuous video regarding tiger awareness

Mirage - Tropical rainforest

New York New York - Take a peak at a mini New York

New York New York - ESPN zone art collection

Paris - 50 storey exact replica of the Eiffel Tower

Paris - Mini Paris including cobblestones and mimes and white and gold human statues

Rio Suite Hotel & Casino - $25 million sky parade

Rio - Showgirls exhibit

Riviera - backsides of Crazy Girls on display at entrance

Sahara - NASCAR Café - memorabilia

Sam's Town - Mystic Falls Park

Sam's Town - Dancing water and laser light display during Sunset Stampede

Treasure Island - The Sirens Of TI pirate battle show

Tropicana - Free slot machine

Venetian Hotel - be transfixed by the gondolas

Venetian Hotel - Test America Preview Studios

Venetian - The Grand Canal Shoppes at the Venetian

Whiskey Pete's Hotel & Casino - bullet riddled Ford of Bonnie & Clyde in their last world famous shoot out

Wynn - Conservatory

Wynn - Ferrari/Maserati dealership tour

Wynn - The Lake of Dreams

A trip to Las Vegas need not cost you the earth. I've revealed many free things to do in Las Vegas centred on hotel attractions. Be on the look out for my collection of articles all focussed on free things to do in Las Vegas - the one place you MUST visit before you die.

Wait! Don't go to Las Vegas without visiting this website and claiming your very own free copy of 170 free things to do in Las Vegas. Plus I will show you have to save at least $544.00 planning your budget Las Vegas vacation. Find out how to have the time of your life in Vegas without breaking the bank...click here now http://www.cheap-discount-vegas-vacations.com to start planning your Las Vegas vacation now!

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Posted by manung36, 3:01 AM | 0 comments |

Used Car Chicago Dealerships Tips

Buying a used car Chicago puts people in better control of their financial situation.

A car is a basic necessity in Chicago. A brand new car straight out of dealership is not. Not all people find great fancy in driving a sparkling Ferrari out of a showroom. Some people also look at the value loss that would incur to the money they spend in just a matter of days. The moment you drive your brand new car out of a dealership, value depreciation has happened to your coveted investment.

Car loans for Chicago used cars were not easy to come by. Now it is not the case. Loans to purchase used car Chicago are readily available with many loan companies. When you plan to purchase the used car dealership service of one of the used car Chicago lots, you also have an option to opt for an affordable loan. The loans are made available through the used car Chicago dealers.

Loans to buy a used car in Chicago also come with affordable terms. The car itself is given as security and the interest rates are down. Flexible repayment options for Chicago used car loans also should make you attracted to a good condition used vehicle.

In many cases you can get vehicles in its best condition, at a price a little more than half of its original showroom value. Used car Chicago comes from seizure of vehicles by police or even by banks. Used car Chicago can sometimes be sold out on an auction basis, where one can bid for a car for as low as $ 100. Don’t you think it is real deal looking for used car Chicago?

Prices are always a matter to look for when it comes to a used car Chicago. Sometimes a used car in Chicago can show blown up prices in paper. In reality you will be able to buy used car Chicago of same make and model for less than half of the advertised price. Whenever you look to buy used car Chicago, always go armed with exact knowledge of the prices. The advertised prices can be deceiving. Checking out actual selling prices is better option when it comes to buying a used car in Chicago.

Warranties coming with used car Chicago will look into matters of periodic repair and oil refills. It is an offer you can hardly miss. A used car in Chicago can be the best option for your teen’s first car or your daily vehicle. You need a car for daily commute and a used car Chicago serves you with that. There is nothing to worry about going for a used vehicle. The point is the car must serve you in a way it should.

It is therefore necessary to get the car thoroughly examined by a mechanic. Mechanics may be examining used cars in Chicago on a daily basis. You may not be able to spot anomalies in a used car as easily as a mechanic can. Even a minor color difference should alert you to an accident in the history of the car.

To request your Free Report “Buy New or Used Cars … An Introduction to the Best Cars To Buy”, click here: http://www.CarBuyingForIdiots.com Learn how you can buy the perfect car and not get scammed. Find out how to save $1000 on your next car purchase.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dominic_Ferrara

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Posted by manung36, 2:59 AM | 0 comments |

Can You Purchase a Ferrari at a GM Price? Selling a Premium Product on Value Versus Price

Imagine two automotive dealerships side by side. Imagine that one is a GM dealer and the other is a Ferrari dealer. How do you think a potential client would be treated at the Ferrari dealership if he demanded a Ferrari, but only if allowed to purchase the Ferrari at a GM price point?

Now imagine two homebuilding businesses side by side. Imagine that one is a stick builder and the other is an insulating concrete forms (ICF) home builder. How do you think a potential client would be treated at the ICF home builders business if he demanded an ICF home, but only if allowed to purchase the ICF home at the stick builder's price point?

First, it is important to understand that both auto dealerships offer automobiles that get a person from point A to point B and that both home builders offer homes that provide adequate shelter from the elements. If this is true, then on the surface, it would seem reasonable to demand that all vehicles and all homes should be similarly priced in a highly competitive marketplace. Strangely, this is not the case and it certainly is not reasonable.

Now there are at least three reasons that this comparison is not totally fair. First, while Ferraris and ICF homes actually cost more to manufacture than their counterparts, the Ferrari is more expensive to operate and maintain while an ICF home is much less expensive. Second, financial "return on investment" calculations are not performed on automobiles since resale value typically declines 60% within four years of ownership. Conversely, homes typically increase in value over any given time frame. Finally, no one honestly believes that you can purchase a Ferrari at a GM price, while the same can't be said of ICF construction versus traditionally built structures.

As ICF industry professionals, we know that we have a premium product with value beyond comparison, yet the industry seems both bashful when discussing benefits and apologetic about the value of the product when discussing price. Here are three things you can start doing today to properly "frame" your ICF business and increase your sales immediately.

First, stop comparing your product to traditional construction technologies. The Ferrari dealer would never allow his product to be compared to a GM product under any circumstances. The essence of ICF technology is superiority in every measurable category and is therefore not comparable to traditional construction technologies. By allowing the comparison of ICFs to traditional construction, we cheapen the "brand" by accepting the question as reasonable and thus opening the door to price comparisons.

Second, immediately begin to start discussing benefits instead of features. Every sales person is familiar with the phrase "sell the sizzle, not the bacon". Apply this bit of wisdom to your sales strategy today. Although a Ferrari may have an awesome sound system, leather seats and a high performance engine (the features), the true appeal is the experience of becoming a member of the elite class of Ferrari owners (the benefit). The features of ICF construction are awesome and sound wonderful, but people don't want to be sold a set of features, they like to buy benefits. Begin discussing benefits today instead of features. You will instantly create reasons for your prospects to buy ICFs and buy them from you, instead of the arduous task of selling against other technologies and other ICF industry members.

Finally, don't be afraid to discuss the premium value of ICF ownership. It is this disconnect between value and price that must be addressed and understood before the ICF industry can assume its rightful place as the technology of choice in the building industry. The best way to discuss anything with your prospects is to ask questions and give them the opportunity to provide an answer. Frame each of your questions in a manner that is consistent with the benefits of ICF technology.

Several questions you could and should ask include "Do you want a structure that can easily survive natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, fires and floods?" and "Do you require a structure that is resistant to termites and other insect infestations?" and "Are you interested in saving 70% on your utility bills while simultaneously providing the highest possible indoor air quality for your family?". If a prospect shows no interest in these benefits, then they will likely not be interested in the premium value provided by ICF technology.

Remember that not everyone can afford a Ferrari and not everyone that can afford one buys one. The real difference between a Ferrari and ICF technology is that no one can afford not to purchase ICF technology. Properly qualifying your prospects and presenting them with the benefits instead of the features will help you grow your business and your profits more quickly while helping ICF technology assume its rightful place in the building industry.

Eric Williams is the founder of the Get Ready to Win Network. Contact Eric at 928-255-5379 or at ericw01@yahoo.com. For additional information, click on this link: http://ericwilliams.48dayscoach.com

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Posted by manung36, 2:57 AM | 0 comments |

Investing in Car Dealerships - How to Value Them

Most business valuations are driven substantially by the company's historical financial statements, tempered by other factors such as: location, brand name, management and such. In truth and in fact, the dealership’s balance sheet represents less than half the information necessary to properly value an automobile dealership. The balance sheet is but a starting point from which a number of factors must be added and subtracted in order to determine the true value of the assets.

Valuing new car dealerships has to do with projecting future profits and opportunities based upon the “dynamics” of the particular dealership being valued and of the automobile business itself.

The Internal Revenue Service recognizes that valuations include more than financial statements: "The appraiser must exercise his judgment as to the degree of risk attaching to the business of the corporation which issued the stock, but that judgment must be related to all of the other factors affecting the value." Revenue Ruling 59-60, Section 3.03.

DEFINITION OF MARKET VALUE

The definition of market value according to the American Institute of Real Estate Appraisers' Dictionary of Real Estate Appraisal, is: "The most probable price in cash, terms equivalent to cash, or other precisely revealed terms, for which the appraised property will sell in a competitive market under all conditions requisite to fair sale, with the buyer and seller each acting prudently, knowledgeably, and for self interest, and assuming that neither is under duress." American Institute of Real Estate Appraisers, The Dictionary of Real Estate Appraisal. (Chicago: American Institute of Real Estate Appraisers, 1984), 194 195.

In Revenue Ruling 59-60, the Internal Revenue Service defines "fair market value" as follows: “. . . the price at which the business would change hands between a willing buyer and a willing seller when the former is not under any compulsion to buy and the latter is not under any compulsion to sell, both parties having reasonable knowledge and relevant facts.”

The purpose of Revenue Ruling 59-60 is to outline and review in general the approach, methods and factors to be considered in valuing shares of the capital stock of closely held corporations. The methods discussed in the Revenue Ruling apply to the valuation of corporate stocks on which market quotations are either unavailable or are of such scarcity that they do not reflect the fair market value.

The Ruling goes on to state that no set formula can be devised to determine fair market value of closely held stocks and that the value will depend upon such considerations as:

(a) The nature of the business and the history of the enterprise from its inception. (b) The economic outlook in general and the condition and outlook of the specific industry in particular. (c) The book value of the stock and the financial condition of the business. (d) The earnings capacity of the company. (e) The dividend-paying capacity. The ability to pay dividends is often more important than a company’s history of distributing cash to shareholders, especially when valuing controlling interests. (f) Whether or not the enterprise has goodwill or other intangible value. (g) Sales of the stock and the size of the block of stock to be valued. (h) The market price of stocks of corporations engaged in the same or a similar line of business having their stocks actively traded in a free and open market, either on an exchange or over-the-counter. With respect to an individual dealership sale, the best comparable is the amount the public company paid or received for buying or selling a similar dealership, not what the public company’s stock value or earnings multiple, per se, that is reflected on the stock exchange.

In practice, in arriving at the fair market value of a new car dealership, several different formulas have been used:

1. Return on Investment (or earnings valuation) Formula: The value of a business to a particular purchaser based upon a return on investment analysis. This value varies from purchaser to purchaser according to the purchaser’s investment criterion and it may or may not reflect fair market value. The National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) refers to this value as “Investment Value.” A Dealer Guide to Valuing an Automobile Dealership, NADA June 1995, Revised July 2000.

The capitalization rate is determined by the stability of the dealership's earnings and the risk involved in the automobile business at the time of sale, investment, or valuation. This method is highly subjective as the capitalization rate is based upon the particular appraiser's perception of the risk of the business; consequently, the lower the appraiser perceives the risk, the lower will be the capitalization rate and the higher will be the price he would expect a potential purchaser to pay for the business.

In short, the capitalization rate is the appraiser's opinion as to a rate of return on investment that would motivate a prospective purchaser to buy the dealership. Considerations include those specified in Revenue Ruling 59-60, as well as available rate of return on alternative investments.

2. Adjusted Net Worth Formula: Net worth of the company, adjusted to reflect the appraised value of the assets used in the day to day operations of a business, assuming that the user or purchaser will continue to make use of the assets. To this "net worth" value will be added blue sky or goodwill, if any. The "Adjusted Net Worth Formula" is the most common method used in purchasing and selling a new car dealership.

3. Orderly Liquidation Formula. This method values the assets as if all of them had to be sold – not at a "fire sale," but in an orderly manner and without time constraints. Normally, if the dealership is profitable, some value will still be placed upon goodwill.

4. Forced Liquidation. The lowest of all values, forced liquidation means that all of the assets must be sold at a forced sale such as an auction, creditors' sale or by order of a bankruptcy court. A bankruptcy proceeding regarding a new car dealership almost never brings goodwill. This might be the most appropriate formula if the dealership has no lease (or only a short term remaining on its lease) and cannot, as a practical matter, relocate.

5. Income Formula. The income formula is basically taking the store’s earnings and multiplying it by an appropriated capitalization rate. The trick here is the definition of “earnings.” In determining “earnings” a perspective purchase could use any combination of the following:

(a) current earnings (b) average earnings – add the last five years together and divide by 5 (c) weighted average earnings – usually an inverted weight with the current year multiplied by five, last year by four, the year before last by three, four years ago by two, five years ago by one, then adding them together and dividing by 15 (d) cash flow – net income plus agreed add-backs such as depreciation, LIFO, personal expenses, excess bonuses and such (e) forecasted earnings – future projected earnings discounted to present day value.

6. Fair Value. NADA also refers to a third value in addition to “Market Value” “Investment Value,” which it calls “Fair Value.” NADA describes “Fair Value” as being “. . . primarily used when a minority shareholder objects to a proposed sale of the company in assessing liquidating damages.” and defines it as: “The value of the minority interest immediately before the transaction to which the dissenter objects, excluding any appreciation or depreciation in anticipation of the transaction and without reference to either a minority or non-marketability discount.”

The NADA guide states: It is not common for auto dealers to run across this particular valuation standard. This author has never used, nor has ever seen this value used with respect to valuing automobile dealerships. As can be seen in this report, this author in discussing valuations excludes what NADA describes as “Fair Value”.

7. The Greater Fool Theory. The National Automobile Dealers Association publication (A Dealer Guide to Valuing an Automobile Dealership, NADA June 1995), bemuses, in part: “A Rule of Thumb is more properly referred to as a 'greater fool theory.' It is not ‘valuation theory, however.” (In its “Valuing an Automobile Dealership: Update 2004” NADA dropped the reference to “fool” and simply states that the theory is “. . . rarely based upon sound economic or valuation theory,” but advises sellers to “Go for it, and maybe someone will be stupid enough to pay [it].”

The considerations for valuing new car dealerships are more complex than those used for valuing most other businesses. Dynamics such as the unique requirements of automobile manufactures and distributors can limit the amount of monies that may be paid for a dealership, regardless of what perspective purchasers may offer to pay for the store.

Therefore, the value of a new car dealership varies based upon the needs and ability of the purchaser and, consequently, the same dealership could have two different values to two different purchaser and both values would be correct.

Thus, our valuation of the subject dealership should be considered in the context and limitations of the facts and history of new car dealership sales as delineated herein.

Although the terms "blue sky" and "goodwill" are sometimes used interchangeably, in our experience they are two separate items.

"Goodwill" reflects the intangible value, over and above the hard assets (net worth) of a going concern, when the business is run profitably. It has to do with the operation of the business. It reflects the fact, for example, that the day the purchaser closes on the purchase of a dealership, customers will be lined-up in the service drive, the dealership’s phone number will already be listed in the yellow pages, existing customers will have relations with employees of the store, the back-end (parts and service) will have an established gross profit, and a plethora of other advantages that do not exist with the opening of a “new point.”

"Blue Sky", on the other hand, is the intangible value of the business opportunity itself. It is the value, for example of being able to own a particular franchise with a certain retail sales potential, or having a business in particular location, or the fact that a particular franchise or location will complement other franchises or locations of a potential purchaser, or the fact that there are few competitors in the area, or the fact that the franchise is ideal for a certain location.

Examples of pure “blue sky” would be the purchase of a letter of intent (LOI) to establish an heretofore non-existent dealership, or the difference in value between a Subaru franchise in snow country, versus the desert, or the difference in value of a domestic franchise in Flint, Michigan versus Marin, California, or vice-versa, the difference in value of a Nissan store in Marin, California versus Flint Michigan.

In short, “blue sky” may exist whether or not the business is profitable, or even “dormant”, as with a LOI. When a store is profitable, however, the distinction still exists, although the term becomes blurred as dealers generally use the terms "blue sky" and "goodwill" as synonymous.

In valuing an automobile dealership, it is common to:

• use the American Institute of Real Estate Appraisers' Dictionary of Real Estate Appraisal and the IRS Revenue Rulings 59-60 definition of "Market Value" and we used the Adjusted Net Worth formula with "Market Value - Continued Used" when valuing the assets;

• use "blue sky" and "goodwill" synonymously, as the dealership is profitable;

• assume an “asset sale” and (1) add the assets of the corporation a buyer would normally purchase to the blue sky and goodwill values to determine a sales value, (2) then add and subtract from/to that value the assets and liabilities that will remain with the seller.

• consider the unique requirements of the industry with respect to the ownership and capitalization of a new car dealership;

• value blue sky/goodwill based upon what the seller could reasonably expect as a sales price, if the seller's interest were actually sold pursuant to the American Institute of Real Estate Appraisers' Dictionary of Real Estate Appraisal definitions of "Market Value", but with regard to what the factory and a lending institution would require to approve the sale and issue a flooring line.

• consider, if appropriate, a minority discount

• land and buildings are valued separately.

Note too: NADA states that in valuing an automobile dealership, “market value” is interchangeable with “fair market value” unless specified otherwise. NADA refers to this value as being used for computation of taxes, divorce, Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOP) and shareholder agreements. See: National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) publication: A Dealer Guide to Valuing an Automobile Dealership, NADA June 1995, and Revised July 2000.

NEW CAR FRANCHISES CANNOT BE SOLD

The term "sale" of a new car franchise is a misnomer, in that a new car dealership franchise cannot be sold. Each and every factory and distributor issues a contract called a "Dealer Service and Sales Agreement" which is entered into between the dealer and the factory and which agreement specifically states the franchise cannot be sold.

What actually occurs in the "sale" of an automobile dealership is that the parties sign a Purchase Agreement with respect to dealership assets or stock and give the Agreement to the factory for factory approval of a number of approvals that must be obtained before the sale can be consummated and the purchaser appointed as the seller's successor dealer. These approvals include:

(1) the purchaser's character; (2) the operator's experience; (3) the dealership's location, with respect to current demographics; (4) the adequacy of the facility, with respect to current planning volume; (5) the dealership's capitalization; (6) the dealership’s projected viability as a profitable entity; and (7) the investor's source of funds

Consequently, the fact that a particular prospective purchaser has "the highest offer” does not mean that a dealership can be (1) sold to that prospect or (2) that the dealership has the value offered. A new car dealership may only be sold to a candidate that meets all of the qualifications of the manufacturer and distributor with respect to capital, experience and projected viability. Although many courts, especially bankruptcy courts have attempted to ignore this rule and value the dealership at the value placed upon it by the highest bidder, the fact that the highest bid does not establish the value of a new car dealership has been upheld by state and federal appellate courts in every jurisdiction in the United States, including bankruptcy court.

See: In re Pioneer Ford Sales, Inc., 729 F.2d 27 (1984), where the Bankruptcy Court, 26 B.R. 116, had approved the transfer, which ran from Pioneer to Pioneer's principal secured creditor, to Toyota Village. The Court of Appeals reversed both the bankruptcy court and the district court finding that Ford's disapproval was not unreasonable. See too: Ferrari v Simms, US Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, Case No: 9916059, April 27, 2000, wherein: the US Bankruptcy Court approved the sale of a bankrupt Ferrari dealership and Court of Appeals reversed stating: the manufacturer “. . . did not unreasonably withhold its consent.”

Thomas M. Pitegoff, in his article: Franchise Relationship Laws: A Minefield for Franchisors, THE BUSINESS LAWYER, Vol. 45, No. 1, November 1989, states at page 289. "A franchisor at common law and under the Sherman Act may also withhold consent to a transfer on the basis that the price at which the franchisee is offering to sell the franchise is so high that it would jeopardize the financial stability of the business and hinder the transferee's ability to succeed.

It is well established that the franchisor has an interest in ensuring that the purchaser will have a chance to realize a reasonable return on his investment." See: In re Beverage International, Ltd., [1986-1987 Transfer Binder] Bus. Franchise Guide (CCH) ЂЂ 8636 (Bankr. D. Mass. 1986); Walner v. Baskin-Robbins, 514 F.Supp. 1029 (D. Tex. 1981); Hawkins v. Holiday Inns, 634 F.2d 342 (6th Cir. 1980), cert. denied, 451 U.S. 987 (1981); Kestenbaum v. Falstaff Brewing Corp., 514 F.2d 690 (5th Cir. 1975), cert denied, 424 U.S. 943 (1976); Hanigan v. Wheeler, 504 P.2d 972 (Ariz. 1972).

REAL PROPERTY AND FACILITIES

Insofar as the operations of a new car dealership are concerned, a factory/distributor will not approve the "sale" of the dealership without passing upon: (1) the condition of the physical facility; (2) the rent factor; and (3) the lease. Furthermore, the value of real property and facilities to a manufacturer and to a new car dealership does not necessarily relate to the market value of land and buildings in the market area. See: John Pico “Buying and Selling Automobile Dealerships”, National Legal Publishing Company (1986). There are "per car" rental factor and percentage of sales formulas used to determine whether or not a dealership could even survive servicing a proposed rent factor.

Additionally, unless there are extenuating circumstances (such an anticipated move in location), manufacturers and distributors generally will not approve a sale without a candidate securing at least a five year lease on the dealership on an "approved" facility. In some instance, the prospective purchaser’s problem with relocating could be that the state has a mileage law.

CURRENT STATE OF THE DEALERSHIP ECONOMY

There are three major factors to consider when discussing "the economy": (1) The health of the national economy; (2) The health of the local economy; and (3) The fiscal health of the franchise and its dealers.

IMPORTANCE OF LOCATION

The strategic importance of location in valuing a dealership, especially this dealership, cannot be overstated. Michelle Krebs and Donna Harris, Staff Reporters for Automotive News, wrote an article on January 21, 2002, detailing the importance of a dealership’s location stating that location, always an important asset, has become even more so in valuing a dealership. See too: Dealer Magazine, June 2000, “Defining Blue Sky”; Beers and Cutler, (beersandcutler.com), “Auto Dealer Report”, Issue 2, 2001; and MerillLynch, in its April 19, 2004 report on Auto Dealers wrote:

THE CONDITION OF THE FACILITY

See the Donna Harris’ Automotive News article of January 27, 2003 entitled: “Showroom renewal”, wherein she states “More makers than ever want dealers to remodel their stores.” She quotes Lou Porreco, president of five dealerships in Pennsylvania and Florida, is at the top of the district in customer satisfaction and sales volume: "When there is a buy-sell agreement, and a new dealer is coming in or a dealer is getting a new franchise or a dealer wants to relocate, the factory makes it contingent on remodeling."

See too: Michael Bradford’s February 4, 2004 Automotive News Article entitled: “Dealers Respond – Redesigns”, whose investigative reporting reached the same conclusion.

ONE MAN SHOWS

Revenue Ruling 59-60, Section 4.02 (b) states: “A sound appraisal of a closely held stock must consider . . . The loss of the manager of a so-called ‘one-man’ business may have a depressing effect upon the value of the stock . . . In valuing the stock of this type of business, therefore, the effect of the loss of the manager on the future expectancy of the business, and the absence of management-succession potentialities are pertinent factors to be taken into consideration.”

POTENTIAL PURCHASERS

Public Companies

At this time, public companies are no longer the darlings of the industry and as a rule are no longer spending huge sums remodeling dealership facilities they once were and many manufacturers and distributors are rejecting offers by public companies to purchase their dealerships. For example, in 2005 Ford Motor Company refused to approve a public company's $87 million offer for the a Dealership Group. The rejection was upheld by both the California New Car Dealer Board and the state courts. In 2005 Mercedes-Benz blocked another public company from purchasing one of its dealerships by exercising its right of first refusal. In the same time span, Ford Motor Company repurchased yet another public company’s Ford dealership and turned it into a company store.

In addition, manufacturers and distributors have limited public companies to a specific number of franchises they may own (for example, Lexus only allows a company to own a combined total five Lexus dealerships in the entire United States) and they have implemented rules prohibiting companies from owning dealerships in the same market.

COMPARABLE DEALERSHIP SALES

Comparable sales are relevant to the extent that the stores being sold are truly “comparable” to the dealership being valued, with respect to potential, facility, location, brand, demographics, and so forth. As no two stores are truly identical, the blue sky paid for each “comparable” store would need to be adjusted for the each of the factors mentioned in this article in order to accurately reflect a “comparable” value.

John Pico has a Doctorate in Jurisprudence and is a vice president of Automotive Advisors. He has completed over 1,000 dealership transactions and published the first books copyrighted in the Library of Congress on Buying and Selling Automobile dealerships. You can obtain his biography and more information, sources and references at http://www.automotiveadvisors.com/johnpico.asp

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Pico,_J.D.

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Posted by manung36, 2:56 AM | 0 comments |

Mobile Car Wash Dealership Washing

If you run a mobile car wash you should have a division, which is dedicated strictly to servicing dealerships in the automotive industry. This division should have services new and used car dealerships, Internet auto sales companies, auto auctions, manufacturers, on-site auto shows, as well as dealerships for RVs, boats, trucks, motorcycles and new farm equipment.

Your Dealership Division should wash for some of the biggest and best in the industry; names like: ADT, Bessmer, AMCI, Lithia, Internet Car Sales, Car Max, Yamaha, Suzuki, Honda, Harley Davidson, Auto Nation, Bayliner, Freightliner, International, John Deere, New Holland, CAT, GM, Selectruck, Peterbilt, and more.

How is this possible?

Our company uses Isuzu trucks. These trucks have the same turning radius as the Ford Escort Wagon, a 13,500 GVW, and can carry up to 1,000 gallons of water. A crew of 10 can work off one truck with a maximum capacity of 1,000 feet of pressure hose.

http://www.isuzucv.com/businessuses/moreuses5.html

By using non-marring hose you will not scratch the surfaces of cars or special dealership flooring. Your crews can also work at night by installing special million candle watt lights. Another custom feature you can incorporate is a dual 360° swivel hose reels. Your competitors will not have this feature and drag their hoses over the hoods of new cars, causing damage to the other vehicles, thus giving away work to your dealership washing division.

In order to provide the best car wash possible, we use reverse osmosis R/O water, no de-ionized and you should too. Your competitors may use de-ionized and occasionally run the C&W tanks out of capacity, thus discharging acid concentrated water onto new dealership units and etching windows and permanently damaging clear-coats. Some mobile car wash companies average 700 cars per day per truck and need additional de-ionized tanks on board. Washing cars on car lots is very hard work. There are over 1.6 million cars on car lots for sale in the U.S. at any one time, and that's just new cars. It's all about logistics, teamwork, and attitude. If you have that and can implement new car dealership lot washing you are good to go. Think about it?

"Lance Winslow" - Online Think Tank forum board. If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance; www.WorldThinkTank.net/. Lance is a guest writer for Our Spokane Magazine in Spokane, Washington

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Posted by manung36, 2:52 AM | 0 comments |

Jd Edwards Business Functions - Multiple Ferrari In Pieces!

As a former trainer for JD Edwards, I was delight when business functions were on the “menu”. In fact, I always related these outstanding tools as multiple Ferrari in pieces. All you have to do is bring the pieces together and build your own car. It seems pretty simple but in reality, it is one of the most difficult tools to use in JDE. What is a business function?

1. Manually generated C code ( source language C)
2. OneWorld generated using business function event rule design (source language NER)

In other words, you can use these encapsulated, reusable business logics (which are compiled) whenever you want to. Like you can see, we are talking about functions and functions need....parameters. Here come the problems.

These magnificent tools needs often a lot of parameters and the documentation in JDE, concerning this subject, is more than poor. This is a disgrace. Of course, JDE will say that you have to build the cross reference facility and so on... In fact, the only help you can get will come from you. As a good JDE developer, you have to open the business function that you think you will need and look at the code, either a source language C or NER. You will then find the parameters you need. Why redo long and difficult code when it is already written? Per example, the “EditLine” business functions are pure delight but very hard to use....

Remember these important points when using business functions:

1. Be patient when first searching for business functions. There are a lot of them and you will often have to guess within a list when you do a word search base.
2. Open the one you selected if there is no documentation (most of the time).
3. Find parameters you need to pass.
4. These are very dominant tools, use it. You will become a Pro.
5. Only a good, well train JDE developer can do that.

Stephan Painchaud is President of FuZZion. These are ERP consulting services companies in USA and Canada. To learn more, contact directly at sniconseil@videotron.ca

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Stephan_Painchaud

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Posted by manung36, 2:42 AM | 0 comments |

Ferrari F430 - The Latest Super Car World Challenger From Italy

It probably comes as no surprise that in the 1930s Enzo Ferrari was a very successful works team manager for the Alfa Romeo. However it wasn't until 1947 that Ferrari produced a car under his own name and so began one of the most successful and famous marques ever conceived.

People able to afford and enjoy a Ferrari F430 are privy to a unique motoring experience because very likely they, better than most, will understand why Ferrari is so different to any of the other sports luxury cars available. Ferrari genuinely offer uniquely designed sensational looking sports, luxury road cars at equally sensational prices. However the high price in this instance is deserved because Ferrari provides its models with the latest engineering technology inspired from successful Formula One experience.

The Ferrari F430 has arguably the most breathtaking appearance of any Ferrari currently in production. The sleek aero-dynamic design cannot help but attract attention, and whether it comes in red livery or another colour, everyone immediately recognises it as a Ferrari. The Ferrari F430 Spider will likewise set hearts racing as it offers open air motoring from inside a practical, but sophisticated luxury cockpit.

A long experience devoted to the development of super-fast luxury cars is a niche market that Ferrari has managed to develop with only a few serious rivals. At £118,500 for a new Ferrari F430 Coupe the F430 could never be considered cheap, but to understand the cost you need to appreciate what it is that you're actually buying.

The Ferrari F430 is an accomplishment of a company whose history spans a large proportion of the twentieth century developing Formula One and Super Fast Road Cars. The road cars have also been luxuriously appointed in order that Ferrari attracts the kind of clients able to afford as well as enjoy their products, and thereby generate the finance for developments to a range of models probably unequalled anywhere on the planet. Luxury cars such as Ferrari are worth every penny because they genuinely support a sphere of development that other manufacturers cannot hope to focus on. Currently the Ferrari F430 is the ultimate road machine offered by this Italian marque.

The Engine

There was a time when Ferrari was associated with V12 engines only, but time has moved on and in respect to the Ferrari F430 a 4.3 litre V8 is present. With around 490 horsepower produced at 8,500 rpm it is easy to understand how this super-fast machine is capable of almost 200 mph and soars between 0-60 in just 4.0 seconds. The fact that the Ferrari F430 is able to handle this kind of power without drama identifies what some of the high initial cost is spent on.

The Drive

Climb out of your hot hatch and in behind the wheel of the Ferrari F430. OK, so the first thing you probably notice is that you're sitting a little lower than usual, or you just might be too excited by the Ferrari logo on the centre of the wheel hub to think of anything other than the fact that you're sitting in one of the fastest road cars on planet earth! Fire up the engine and the howl from 490 horsepower is enough to bring home the fact that your sitting in something that makes sounds faster than your hot hatch can move. You will also have noticed that everyone within a square mile knows that you exist. The sound of the V-8 4.3 litre engine can be intimidating first time you hear it because if ever any engine could be compared to a raging bull, this is it. A six speed manual transmission supplied either through a Formula One paddle or the standard Ferrari open-gate. The F1 paddle is for drivers who don't want to waste precious seconds changing gears, while the standard open-gate is for those with time on their hands. However, a very special feature of the F430 is its electronic differential which allows a driver to push this Ferrari harder than most through bends. Knowing all this is good, but experiencing it is, sensational.

With a straight road ahead push the throttle to the floor and amaze yourself at how quickly the straight road ahead suddenly becomes a bend. Straight-line performance is awesome, pushing you firmly back in the seat so that the thrill of acceleration is almost lost as you attempt to focus well ahead of where you are pointed. Just as you begin to ease off and do a little recovery from the G Force pounding of a straight line power burst, a curve demands that you think about turning the wheel in your hands. Amazingly all you need do is think and follow the line of the bend because the F430, with all its clever Formula One development, helps you round, and as it does so you realise that you're having to get accustomed to another set of G Forces which few people ever experience. The temptation to drive fast is a constant companion, but so is the fact that you're driving one of the safest super-fast cars ever built. The Ferrari F430 is an involving experience, built to provide drivers who enjoy motoring an opportunity to escape the limitations imposed by lesser machines. The only experience to top a drive in the Ferrari F430 would be a drive in a Ferrari F430 Spyder with the top down.

Kevin Dark likes sporty cars. More about Ferrari can be found in his blog - Ferrari Center

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Posted by manung36, 2:42 AM | 0 comments |

The Battle Rages On Between Porsche And Ferrari

The two European automakers, Porsche of Germany and Ferrari of Italy, have a lot of similarities even though the two compete with each other head to head for a niche market of the automotive industry. Both companies have a patriarchal founder, companies honed their skills in racing, are over five decades old, and both have a commitment to the integrity of their styling. If you question whether the two are the dominant force in performance autos just take a street survey and you will find that even a novice who knows nothing about cars knows these names.

For the purposes of this comparison we have chosen to feature the iconoclastic 911 Carrera from Porsche and the gorgeous Ferrari F430 because the two are representative of their respective company’s long standing tradition of marrying style and performance while offering some practicality but in the end are true sports cars though and through.

Both of these cars have the basic requirements of the modern sports car which are the ability to be started easily, handles well in town, takes winding country roads well and has race car performance coupled with safety.

When comparing standing start times the Ferrari is a slight bit faster edging out the Porsche by .8 seconds with a four second time in the zero to 100km/h test which is needless to say lightning fast. With speeds like these it is also imperative that the two speedsters be able to stop equally efficiently and the two do so offering optional cutting edge ceramic braking systems.

Porsche definitely wins in the fuel economy comparison getting nearly twice the mileage that the F430 gets. Both cars transfer the power of their engines through state of the art six speed transmissions.

The interiors of both vehicles offer a great deal of comfort that belies the small space and doesn’t leave the driver feeling cramped or closed in. The overall appearance in style goes to the Porsche hands down though as masters of high quality finish work.

When having to decide between the two, assuming you have the money to do so, the biggest difference is appearance with the Ferrari having the head turning looks but overall we have to give the fight to Porsche as the more well rounded of the two and the one that is less costly to maintain. It was fun to compare them however and maybe you should make a comparison of your own.

Gregg Hall is an author and internet marketing consultant living in Navarre Florida. Get information on car care products for your car at http://www.waxyourauto.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gregg_Hall

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Posted by manung36, 2:41 AM | 0 comments |

Issues Concerning Insuring a Ferrari

Ferraris are beautiful luxury machines that can make a great addition to your investment portfolio. Considered by vehicle connoisseurs as art on wheels, ownership of a new or used Ferrari puts you in an elite group of car enthusiasts. After making a large investment in such a thing of beauty, you will want to take the necessary steps to protect your expenditure; heading the list will be to procure appropriate Ferrari insurance.

How you will use the car is one factor that will come into play when you are purchasing auto insurance. A car that is used as a show piece and is rarely driven will demand a different rate from one that is taken out and driven on the open road. Some insurers also have requirements for garaging vehicles when they are not in use. Another aspect to consider is the age and gender of the driver. Insurance is based on risk and indemnity, and if you are in what the insurance company decides is a high-risk group, this will cause your rate to increase. For example, an experienced male driver with a clean driving record wishing to insure a $100,000 Ferrari with full coverage might expect an insurance premium in the $5,000 range. An older female driver with a similar record, experience and vehicle would typically pay less for the same coverage, because in general women drivers carry less of a risk to the insurer than do male drivers. The amount of experience a driver has, plus his or her driving record, will also factor into the insurance premium an insurer will offer you. The rarity of the particular Ferrari that you own will also play a part in the insurance costs incurred.

You might want to think about insuring your vehicle with an insurance company that specializes in collectible cars. In this way you will be dealing with agents that are experienced with auto insurance issues specific to Ferraris and other classic road vehicles, and they can offer you the specialized service that you will need. If you are a collector of rare or classic cars, you can often get a discount by insuring more than one vehicle with the same insurance company, so this is something for which you will need to inquire.

Belonging to an auto club for Ferrari owners can also provide a way to lower your insurance costs. Auto clubs can often offer discounts to their members because they are able to buy insurance coverage in bulk, essentially, and this helps drive the prices down, for the members' advantage. Discounts on insurance are also sometimes given to auto club members because they tend to be safe drivers that take excellent care of their prized vehicles.

Jonathon Blocker has worked with many well known Ferrari Dealers. As a Ferrari aficionado who is intimate with the history and variety of Ferraris, Mr. Blocker enjoys sharing his expertise on the family of Ferrari Cars, both new and collectible.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jonathan_Blocker

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Posted by manung36, 2:40 AM | 0 comments |

Ferrari Models Reviewed

Ferrari was founded in 1929 by Enzo Ferrari and first produced cars in 1947. Today, the parent company for Ferrari is Fiat. The Ferraris engines are famous for their engine displacement technology. The V6 and the V8 are built in total displacement, while the V12 used a displacement of one cylinder. Some of the latest Ferrari models include the Ferrari 550, the 575 M Maranello, 599 GTB Fiorano, the 612 Scaglietti, the F355, the Ferrari 360, the F430, the Enzo Ferrari and the Ferrari FXX.

The 599 GTB Fiorano was started to be produced in 2007, and it is a Gran Turismo two seat berlinetta with a FR layout. The Ferrari 612 Scaglietti is a follower of the Ferrari 456 and it is a 2+2 coupe Gran Turismo. It was first launched in 2004 and is still being manufactured. Another car also launched in 2004 is the Ferrari F430. It is a sports car and it is available as a two seat Berlinetta and as a two seat Spider. The F430 has a MR layout and can be purchased with a 6 manual or semi automatic speed.

The Enzo Ferrari is a super car/ ultra car manufactured between 2002 and 2004 and was launched in the memory of the founder of the Ferrari company. The Enzo was manufactured in only 400 copies so it was a highly expensive item. It had a Berlinetta body style and a MR layout. The follower model of the Enzo Ferrari was the FXX, which is also a super car. The FXX was released in 2005, and is said to be an improved Enzo Ferrari with the same MR layout and Berlinetta body style. The FXX keeps many of the Enzo’s features but has also new cool features that are singular to the FXX. The car is highly expensive and it may be driven on special tracks only. The last FXX, the 30th was given to Michael Schumacher. A similar super car is the Maserati MC12 Corsa.

Ferrari si also responsilble for some concept models, which include among others the Ferrari P5, the Ferrari Pininfarina 512S Berlinetta Speciale, the Pininfarina Modulo, the Ferrari Mythos, the Ferrari GG50, the Ferrari P4/5 and the Ferrari Zagato 575 GTZ.

Interested in cars? Here’s some more info:
Fiat wallpapers and photos
All Car Parts Sitemap
Ford wallpapers and pictures

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Rad

Michael Rad - EzineArticles Expert Author

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Posted by manung36, 2:39 AM | 0 comments |

Ferrari Looks to Impress Home Fans at Monza for the Italian Grand Prix

Following on from a great win by Felipe Massa in Istanbul and a third position for Michael Schumacher, formula one is now set to travel to Monza for Ferrari’s home race, the only race being held this September.

The drivers’ championship currently stands with Fernando Alonso on 108 points with Michael Schumacher only 12 behind on 96 points and with four races to go, this situation could easily change. After the Turkish result where Ferrari gained 16 valuable points, the constructors’ championship is poised even closer with Renault on 160 pts and Ferrari only 2 points behind on 158. This means that both Schumacher and Massa are both looking to show the fanatical Ferrari home crowd how strong their Maranello based cars really are to the home crowd, and make some significant points gains in the process.

The track at Monza is known as "La Pista Magica," the magic track, by the locals, and it seems to have a heart and soul of its own. Built in 1922, Monza was only the third permanent race track ever to be built, following in the footsteps of Brooklands and Indianapolis, and was originally 10km in length with a banked oval track incorporated into the design of the road racing circuit. The current track has now been reduced to 5.793 km in length, making the 53 lap race distance for the Grand Prix nearly 307 km.

The quickest circuit on the calendar to drive, the Monza track requires a combination of both speed and great talent, as the list of past classic races and terrifying accidents will testify. Racers on this circuit use low amounts of downforce to help maximize their speed, but this means that grip levels are correspondingly low, especially into the turn one chicane where the cars all need to slow down from 350km/h to just 60km/h, which can make for an ‘interesting’ first lap.

As talk of what Michael Schumacher’s future plans are going to be crop up in the media, the drive to succeed over the next few races are liable to demonstrate some of his best driving for years, and the atmosphere whenever Ferrari appears in front of the Tifose home crowd is always an electric event.

The small town of Monza is located a short distance from the charming Lake Como and just 16km to the north-east of Milan, with the circuit in easy reach from the city by using the A1 and A4 motorways, and then the local S36.

International travelers can get to the circuit by taking a flight to Milan Linate airport, just to the east of Milan, which handles domestic and European flights, or use Malpensa airport in the north-west which also handles international traffic. From there a quick train ride from Milan to the track is easy.

After a simple rail journey from Milan through to Monza Station, it's then a short ride on the free shuttle bus service which is normally laid on over the race weekend to transport fans to the circuit, which will have any race fan loving the smell of the fumes on what is set to be a fantastic race day.

About the author:
Andrew Regan is an online journalist who enjoys socialising at his local Edinburgh cricket club.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andrew_Regan

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Posted by manung36, 2:38 AM | 0 comments |

Ferrari Drawings

Ferrari, just the name gets me excited! Drawing Ferraris is something I have done since many years back and I never get tired of it. For me drawing a Ferrari is like physically experiencing the car as if it was right there in front of me. I learn more about the lines of the car and see lines that I would normally not notice when just seeing a picture of a Ferrari.

My favorite Ferrari to draw is probably the Enzo or the 250 GTO, both very different cars from different eras. Doing a Ferrari Enzo drawing is always exciting, because this car is so extreme and looks like no other. And because of the sharp edges it makes it a very challenging car to draw. While a Ferrari 250 GTO drawing is very hard to draw correctly because of the beautiful curves this car has. Then again the reward of pulling it off is totally worth the frustrating hours getting those lines right! A Ferrari F40 drawing is also very special to do, this car is so raw and its always a challenge to get that rawness to come alive in the drawing.

My best advise on how to improve your car drawings is simply to spend more time on them. For example if you are not fully satisfied with the front lights, don’t just continue with the drawing and hoping that the lights will get better by some magical touch! No, look at the lights and don’t give up on them until you are fully satisfied with them, then move on to the next part of the car drawing.

If you love Ferrari you should get your favorite pencil and sit down with a clean sheet of paper and just relax and start sketching your favorite Ferrari. Don’t give up to quickly, just focus on the general shape of the outward lines of the car and you will soon see how the sketch is becoming better. Remember patience is the key to success when drawing a Ferrari.

Lukas Niklasson is the associated editor to the website http://www.autodrawings.net. It is a website that focus on car drawings of all sorts. It get updated regurarly with new drawings and interesting information regarding car artwork.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lukas_Niklasson

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Posted by manung36, 2:38 AM | 0 comments |

Ferrari Driving Schools

If you are a Ferrari car owner, you know the pleasure that is yours when you slip behind the wheel of this fabulous driving machine. Did you know that you could enhance your enjoyment of these vehicles even more by participating in a Ferrari driving school? This is a fun way to get to understand how your Ferrari works, and what it is capable of on a racetrack.

The Ferrari North America School is located in Mont-Tremblant, northwest of Montreal. The driving takes place on a race track a little over two and a half miles long. Instructors make clear that this is not a school to train racers. This Ferrari Driving Experience school will give you the skills you need to get more out of driving your Ferrari.

The instructors have put in many championship wins on race tracks around the world. They are experienced in sharing their skills in a step-by-step manner; with early instruction providing vital tools upon which more advanced techniques will be built.

The Ferrari Driving Experience lasts for two and a half days, and begins with a champagne reception and dinner the evening before classes begin. Time is spent in both the classroom and on the track, although most of the time is spent behind the wheel. Classes cover such topics as vehicle dynamics and driving line. Track time includes introducing skills like how to handle the car in wet and dry conditions, including controlled skids, braking, and acceleration, and building on lapping techniques, beginning with sectional, and moving up to short track and eventually full track circuits.

Students may not drive their own Ferraris, for insurance reasons, but instead are provided with twelve new Ferrari F430 ‘s for their use during the Experience. The fee for sumptuous room, board and instruction is $8,200 in US dollars. There is a waiting list for these special instructional events, so register early if possible.

If you would like to receive all of the superior instruction of the Experience but be able to participate in your own Ferrari, then you might enjoy Ferrari Driving Clinics. Priced at $1350 US, these clinics are held on Ferrari Challenge race weekends, and you get to drive your car on the track, under the helpful eye of your instructor. There are two skill groups, the Sport group for intermediate to advanced drivers and the Touring group for beginner to intermediate enthusiasts. You will also get to participate in infield driving drills to help you hone your ability in several areas, including braking and autocross. You will learn driving techniques to make your Ferrari car driving experience more satisfying. For everyone's safety, Ferrari requires each participating vehicle to receive a technical inspection from an authorized Ferrari dealer.

Jonthon Blocker is a Ferrari afficianado. Jonathon has driven a variety of Ferraris, and has developed an expertise on the marque.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jonathan_Blocker

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Posted by manung36, 2:37 AM | 0 comments |

The History of Ferrari

When Enzo Ferrari created his company Scuderia Ferrari in Italy in 1929 his intentions was to sponsor amateur race car drivers and invent racing cars, and it would take more than 15 years before Ferrari began to create their own road cars in 1946. Ferrari is still devoted to the creation of racing cars and high performance sports cars and do not create other types of cars. Scuderia Ferrari is still the widespread name for Gestione Sportiva, the part of the Ferrari company that works with racing. Scuderia is an Italian word and means “stable”, but Scuderia Ferrari is sometime also translated as Team Ferrari.

During the early years, Scuderia Ferrari sponsored race car drivers that were driving Alfa Romeo cars. Scuderia Ferrari would prepare Alfa Romeo cars before the race, and in 1938 Enzo Ferrari became officially employed by Alfa Romeo's racing department. Two years later Enzo Ferrari found out that Alfa Romeo was planning to absorb Scuderia Ferrari, a plan which Enzo Ferrari strongly opposed. He instantly left his job at Alfa Romeo, but his contract restricted him from being involved with racing for several years. He changed Scuderia Ferrari into “Auto Avio Costruzioni Ferrari” and officially manufactured aircraft accessories for a few years. Enzo Ferrari did however create a race car during this restricted period. The Tipo 815 debuted at the Mille Miglia race in 1940, but the race was hampered due to World War II and Tipo 815 encountered no real competition. In 1943 Enzo Ferrari moved his factory to Maranello in Italy and one year later the factory was bombed. After the end of World War II, Enzo Ferrari rebuilt his factory and now the Ferrari factory was capable of construction road cars as well.

Ferrari constructed its first road car in 1947. The 1947 125 S Ferrari had a 1.5 L V12 engine and the whole car was considered very beautiful and well designed. Enzo Ferrari was still more interested in race cars and the Ferrari road cars was merely a way for him to fund his work with the Scuderia Ferrari. His distaste for the road car customers became famous and he even accused them of buying Ferrari cars only as status symbols. It is true that the Ferrari road cars grow to fame not only due to excellent performance but also thanks to their stylish elegance. Pininfarina, Bertone, Ghia, Scagliette, Touring and Vignale are all examples of design houses that have worked with Ferrari.

In November 1961 a dispute between Enzo Ferrari and his sales manager, Girolamo Gardini, turned into a crisis. Girolamo Gardini threatened to leave the company. Enzo Ferrari responded to the threat by throwing out Girolamo Gardini, and several employees who agreed with Girolamo Gardini were also ousted. Among them were Romolo Tavoni, manager for Scuderia Ferrari, Giotto Bizzarrini, the chief of the experimental sports car development, and Carlo Chiti, the chief engineer. This was naturally a huge loss for the Ferrari company and the crisis deepened when those who had been thrown out formed their own company – Automobili Turismo e Sport (ATS). ATS even managed to take over Scuderia Serenissima, a very successful racing team, from Ferrari.

A younger engineer, Mauro Forghieri, and an experienced racing bodyman, Sergio Scaglietti, assumed responsibility and tried to finish the projects that the leaving employees had left behind. One of the most important tasks was to finish the development of 250 GTO; a new 250-based model that could compete with the Jaguar E-type. The 250 GTO was finished in time to participate in the Sebring race and place itself first in class, driven by Phil Hill. Throughout 1962, the 250 GTO continued to win the races and it is still one of the most well known race cars in history. The crisis turned out to be something good for Ferrari and the 1960s became a very good decade for the company.

Until the 1980s when Ferrari began to use fuel injection in the road cars, the Ferraris were known as rather temperamental cars. They could be very unreliable, but would still attract a large group of dedicated fans that viewed this unpredictability as “character” rather than a problem. Today, FIAT controls 56 percent of the Ferrari stocks. The rest of stocks owned by Enzo's con Piero Ferrari and by Commerzbank, Mediobanca and the Lehman Brothers. Maranello is still the home town for Ferrari.

Another dream car for many is the Hummer. The History of the Hummer is much shorter than the history of Ferrari and GM is just releasing their third Hummer model, the Hummer 3. A new more family friendly Hummer that will be very customizable just like the other hummer models with the help of a Hummer accessory or two.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=William_Berg

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Posted by manung36, 2:36 AM | 0 comments |

Owning A Ferrari - Is It Worth It?

Driving a Ferrari has always been a dream of mine. I am unfortunate that I remember Danny Wild driving his red Ferrari around Europe in the Persuaders on TV back in the early 70s. But then when you do get to drive one, you realise that they are only designed to be driven one way, and that’s fast.

But of course with speed limit, kids, other drivers on the road you will find that only a very small time can be dedicate to driving a Ferrari as it should be. In fact much of the driving you would do is totally unsuitable for a Ferrari. OK I will be honest with you, I don’t own a Ferrari but I have driven one. I hired a car and drove it around a racetrack as it was designed to do, which a qualified instructor of course. This has totally changed my perception of why people must own a Ferrari.

I cannot now see any reason to own one at all, except as a status symbol. Nothing comes close to driving this super car around at 150mph, so much legal fun it’s amazing, but driving it at 30mph just seems so much of a hassle. Then my driving instructor came up with some facts. He said add up the cost of buying your Ferrari then add on the insurance, add on your yearly running costs in including servicing, tyres etc.

Then he said calculate how many hours you would actually get to drive your car. Then calculate how many hours you would drive the car as it should be driven. In both cases you get a ridiculously high hourly rate to own a car. So much so that to hire one like I did with professional instruction becomes a bargain.

So I have readjusted my dream, I will stick with my comfortable road car but when I fancy, to the racetrack I will go in the full knowledge I am getting a better deal than the rich and famous. There are many track deals around the UK stating from £99 why not give a try and see if your dream changes.

Mark Flanighan webmaster for Ferrari Track Days He also has 2 car websites Best Breakdown Cover and Choosing The Right Car Breakdown Cover

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mark_Flanighan

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Posted by manung36, 2:34 AM | 0 comments |