The question can feel as loaded as choosing between vanilla and chocolate ice cream on a hot summer day!

But don’t worry! This post is here to help you decide by breaking down both sides of the coin. We’ll dive into everything from the basic nuts and bolts of washing cars, right through to weighing up pros and cons for each method.

This isn’t just about clean versus dirty—it’s about making informed choices that save time, money, possibly even Mother Earth herself. Ready? Let’s ride!

Understanding Car Wash Basics

If you’re a car owner, keeping your ride clean is crucial. But the big question here is: drive-thru or hand wash? Before we delve into the pros and cons of each option, let’s discuss what is involved in each process.

Drive-thru Car Wash

An automatic car wash, as its name suggests, uses machines and high-pressure water jets to clean your vehicle. You drive in, select the type of wash you want from an easy-to-use panel, and sit back while brushes do their job.

The entire process is incredibly speedy, taking only minutes to complete. And it’s not only quick but also efficient – powerful sprays ensure no spot remains dirty.

Hand Car Wash

A hand car wash, on the other hand (pun intended), requires more effort. It involves manually washing every inch of your vehicle with soap and water.

This method takes longer than an automatic car wash but allows for more attention to detail – especially useful if there are stubborn stains or areas needing special care. Plus, many people find it therapeutic to give their beloved cars some TLC.

So now that we’ve laid out the basics of both methods – which one should you choose? The answer depends on several factors like cost effectiveness, time constraints and environmental impact…but we’ll dive deeper into those aspects in the next sections. Stay tuned.

Pros of a Drive-thru car wash

The first perk of an automatic car wash is the speed. You just drive in, and voila. Your ride shines like new in minutes. It’s a time-saver for busy folks who don’t have spare hours to hand-wash their cars.

Besides saving time, you also save water with automatic car washing systems. According to Car Wash Magazine, professional car washes use less than half the amount of water compared to DIY washing at home.

An added bonus? Automatic car wash services often include drying processes that prevent those pesky water spots from forming on your vehicle’s surface after a rinse.

Ease-of-Use and Safety

Automatic Car Wash systems are designed for simplicity; no expertise required here. All it takes is pushing some buttons or choosing from preset options—easy peasy lemon squeezy.

Fret not about scratching your precious ride either because these machines are gentle on your vehicle’s paintwork while efficiently getting rid of dirt and grime according to this report by Reader’s Digest.

Variety & Flexibility

Different strokes for different folks—that’s what makes auto-carwashes stand out too. They offer various programs tailored around specific needs—from basic rinsing packages up through more detailed cleans including undercarriage sprays or wheel cleaning.

Cons of a Drive-thru Car Wash

While quick and easy, automatic car washes have their downsides. For starters, they can be harsh on your vehicle’s paint job. This is because the brushes used in these systems may carry dirt or grit from previous cars that could scratch your paint.

Moreover, an analysis by Consumer Reports reveals that these machines often miss spots, especially around mirrors and spoilers. So even after a run through the automated system, you might still find patches of grime on your ride.

A more significant concern with auto washes is water usage. They’re not as eco-friendly as one might assume. According to a study conducted by the International Carwash Association (ICA), one single automated cleaning session uses about 38 gallons of water.

• The rough bristles can damage the exterior finish.
• Certain areas may remain uncleaned due to machine limitations.
• A high amount of water consumption which isn’t eco-friendly.

If you value precision cleaning and want to minimize potential harm to both your car and environment, hand washing could be worth considering despite its time-consuming nature.

But remember – whichever method you choose will have its pros and cons.

Cons of hand car wash

If you’re a hands-on person, washing your car might seem like a great way to spend some quality time with your ride. But before you grab that bucket and sponge, let’s look at the downsides.

Time-Consuming Process

Hand washing is not for those in a hurry. It takes more time than an automated wash – we’re talking hours here, folks. The average hand car wash can take up to two hours. That’s enough time to watch ‘The Godfather’.

Potential Damage Risk

Sometimes love hurts – even when it comes to cars. Washing by hand can lead to scratches if done incorrectly. According to the Consumer Reports guide on Car Maintenance, abrasive materials or harsh detergents could leave behind unsightly marks on your precious paintwork.

Inefficient Water Usage

The environment won’t thank you for choosing a manual scrub-down either. Handwashing uses significantly more water compared with automated methods – as much as 150 gallons per clean according to this International Carwash Association report.

Lack of Professional Tools and Products

You probably don’t have professional-grade tools or cleaning products sitting around in your garage. Without these, you might not be able to get that professional shine and finish.

So, while hand washing can seem like a good idea initially – it’s worth considering the time commitment, potential for damage, water wastage, and lack of professional-grade products before making this your go-to method.

Pros of Hand Car Wash

If you’ve got the time and elbow grease, a hand car wash can give your ride that extra shine. But beyond its aesthetic appeal, let’s explore why a hand car wash can be beneficial. Let’s talk about why.

Attention to Detail

A major pro of hand washing is attention to detail. When you’re doing the cleaning, each and every corner is thoroughly cleaned. No machine in an automatic car wash can match this level of precision.

Gentle on Paintwork

Your paint job stays safe with a hand wash. Machines may sometimes be harsh on vehicle surfaces but when you clean by hand, using soft materials like microfiber towels or sponges ensures protection for your car’s exterior finish.

Eco-friendly Option

A lesser-known fact is that washing cars at home uses less water compared to automatic facilities – usually around 10 gallons versus 60-70 gallons used per cycle in commercial setups.

This makes manual cleaning a more eco-friendly option too. Less water waste equals a happier planet.

Remember though: It takes time and effort to get those sparkles shining from every angle. The right choice depends entirely upon what suits your needs best.

Making the Right Choice: Drive-thru Car Wash or Hand Washing?

Choosing between a drive-thru car wash and hand washing can feel like a dilemma. But let’s break it down based on four main factors: cost, time, effectiveness, and environmental impact.

Cost

An automated car wash is usually cheaper up front. You pay once and you’re done. On the other hand, for hand washing at home, you need to buy all the cleaning supplies yourself which might be more expensive initially but they’ll last multiple uses.

Time

If we talk about saving time then nothing beats a drive-thru car wash. Just drive in, sit back and relax while your vehicle gets cleaned up quickly. Conversely with manual labor of a good old-fashioned hand wash takes longer – yet some folks find this therapeutic.

Effectiveness

The debate over whether machines or humans do a better job of cleaning cars has been ongoing since the first automated car wash was introduced in 1914. It’s agreed that if done properly by someone who knows what they’re doing (like yourself.), a hand wash can get into nooks where machines miss out.

Environmental Impact

A professional auto-wash system often reuses water making it more eco-friendly than most DIY efforts involving buckets and hoses running free at home. If green is your thing then consider this aspect seriously before taking any decision.

In essence, both methods have their own merits depending upon what matters to you most – cost-effectiveness versus quality of clean or speed against environmental consciousness? No single solution is applicable to all vehicle owners, as each individual’s requirements are distinct.

Super Shiny Car FAQs

How often should I wash my car?

You should give your car a good scrub every two weeks. But, if you live in an area with harsh weather or lots of dust and dirt, you might need to do it more frequently.

What is best to use when washing my car?

While there is no one-size-fits-all solution exists when it comes to the best CAR WASH method. The opinion of WhichCar is to get outside and scrub your cars down, but it all boils down to personal preference shaped by factors unique to each of us!

The post Drive-Thru or Hand Wash? Pros & Cons of Modern Car Wash Methods appeared first on WhichCar.org.

Related: How To Import a Car into the United States

Why People Like JDM Cars

At the heart of the JDM appeal is the unique combination of aesthetics, performance, and exclusivity these cars bring to the table. With a pedigree tracing back to Japan’s rich automobile culture, these machines are a testament to the nation’s commitment to excellence and innovative design. However, as with any venture, there are pros and cons to consider when dealing with JDM project cars.

JDM project cars have been incredibly popular recently, drawing hordes of fans looking to build a special vehicle that encompasses both flair and performance. Yet, there are advantages and disadvantages to weigh before starting one of these projects. We will examine everything, from the potential value appreciation of legendary JDM vehicles to how time-consuming build is. So let’s get started and learn the reality of JDM project cars.

Related: 10 Best Cheap JDM Project Cars

There are many pros to why any DIY mechanic might want to undertake a JDM project car build. Here are some of the most compelling pros of a JDM project build:

Top Five Pros of Having a JDM Project Car

1. Pro: High-Quality Parts

Having access to high-quality parts is one of the main benefits of building a JDM project vehicle. JDM parts are frequently produced to a higher level than their international equivalents because Japan is known for developing some of the most technologically advanced automobiles. Also, it’s simpler to discover the ideal improvements for your car thanks to the large selection of performance parts available on the JDM market that are made especially for Japanese automobiles.

2. Pro: Strong Resale Value

JDM project cars are also noted for their robust resale value, owing to the growing demand and the charm of Japanese performance vehicles. A well-maintained and tastefully modified project car can fetch impressive prices in the secondary market.

3. Pro: So Many Car Options

JDM offers a rich spectrum of models and types catering to varied tastes and preferences. From the nimble Honda Civic EG to the roaring Nissan Skyline GTR, each JDM project car presents a unique canvas for customization. Additionally, the availability of these vehicles at competitive price points often renders them an attractive choice for both novice and seasoned car enthusiasts.

4. Pro: Rich Modding Culture & Community Support

JDM project cars come with an enriching modification culture. With the myriad of aftermarket parts available, owners have limitless options to personalize their vehicles, resulting in cars that are a true reflection of their individual style and preferences.

5. Pro: Unique and Distinctive Design

Japanese car designs are often characterized by a unique aesthetic that is simultaneously subtle and striking. Embarking on a JDM project allows for the creation of a vehicle that stands out on the road, boasting iconic designs and shapes that are inherently tied to their Japanese origin.

Related: All-Time Top 10 JDM Cars Every Gearhead Should Know

Top Five Cons of Having a JDM Project Car

While working on a Japanese car can be a fun and gratifying experience, there are also many reasons why you would not want to do so. Many major drawbacks include the following:

1. Con: High Cost to Build or Import

Import and modification costs can be significant. Importing rare JDM cars and parts can attract high fees, and the cost of modifications can quickly add up. Therefore, building a JDM project car can be a pricey affair.

2. Con: Difficulty Sourcing Parts

Despite the reliability of Japanese cars, their maintenance can be a complex task. Finding replacement parts for specific older models might be challenging and expensive. Furthermore, the technical expertise required to work on these cars can be substantial, necessitating the involvement of specialized mechanics.

3. Con: Lack of Support

The availability of resources to help with JDM project builds varies widely by location. It may be even more difficult to find a local group of JDM enthusiasts who can provide guidance and support, and to find qualified mechanics who can carry out the changes.

4. Con: Regulatory Compliance Issues

Navigating regulatory and compliance issues can be complicated. Importing a JDM car often involves navigating a maze of regulations and compliance standards, which can be both time-consuming and challenging.

5. Con: Time-Consuming

Car customization can take a lot of time. It can take a long time, especially if you’re inexperienced, to find the correct parts, acquire them, and put them in. Those who have a lot on their plates or who have other commitments may find this difficult. Depending on the scope of the changes and the availability of time to work on the car, modifying a JDM project car can be a very lengthy process that can take weeks, months, or even years to accomplish.

Related: Best 5 Drifting Cars Under 5K: Cheap Drift

Final Thoughts on the Pros & Cons of JDM Car Projects

The post The Truth About JDM Project Cars: Pros & Cons appeared first on WhichCar.org.

That matters if you are shopping. There is no new Camaro to depreciate into the used market, supply is now fixed, and the desirable versions have already stopped falling in value. Our Camaro evolution history covers the full run; this is about which used one to buy.

The generations you are shopping

Fourth generation, 1993 to 2002

The last of the old school, with T-tops, pop-up headlights on early cars, and a live rear axle. The LT1 V8 gave way to the LS1 in 1998, which is the one to want and remains one of the most tunable engines ever put in a cheap car.

Chevrolet then killed the Camaro entirely. There was no Camaro from 2003 to 2009, which catches people out when they are searching by year.

Fifth generation, 2010 to 2015

The retro revival, and the car that brought the nameplate back. It rode on GM’s Zeta platform, the same Australian-developed architecture underneath the Holden Commodore that also became the Chevrolet SS.

It is heavy, at roughly 3,900 pounds, and it drives like it. The V6 made 304 horsepower rising to 323, and the SS used a 6.2-litre V8: the LS3 at 426 horsepower with the manual, or the L99 at 400 with the automatic. Above those sat the supercharged ZL1 from 2012 at 580 horsepower and the track-focused Z/28 in 2014 with the 7.0-litre LS7.

This is the cheapest way into a modern Camaro, and the compromises are real.

Sixth generation, 2016 to 2024

A completely different car. Chevrolet moved it to the Alpha platform shared with the Cadillac ATS, cut around 200 pounds, and produced something that genuinely out-handles a Mustang. Enthusiasts who only know the fifth generation are usually surprised by it.

The range ran from a 275-horsepower 2.0-litre turbo four through a 335-horsepower V6 to the SS with a 455-horsepower 6.2-litre LT1, topped by the supercharged ZL1 at 650. The 1LE package added serious track hardware and was available across most of the range, which makes a 1LE V6 or SS the enthusiast’s value pick.

Worth knowing: the 2019 facelift gave the SS a front end that was so badly received Chevrolet revised it again for 2020. That is a styling question rather than a mechanical one, but it affects resale.

The pros

It handles better than its rivals. This is the Camaro’s real argument and it gets lost under the muscle car branding. A sixth-generation SS or 1LE is a properly sorted sports car that will out-corner a Mustang GT and embarrass a Challenger. If you care about roads with bends in them, this is the one.

Performance per dollar. Used SS models deliver 455 horsepower for less than a new hot hatchback costs. The V6 with the 1LE package is quicker than most people expect and cheaper to insure than any V8.

Depreciation has already happened. Somebody else absorbed the worst of it. The exception is the ZL1 and Z/28, which have held value and in some cases started climbing.

Engine choice across the range. A turbo four for running costs, a V6 for balance, a V8 for the noise. Few used cars give you that spread on one body.

Cheap and easy to work on. GM V8s have the deepest aftermarket in existence and any competent shop can service one. Parts are inexpensive and everywhere.

The cons

The visibility is genuinely bad. This deserves more than a passing mention because it is the defining complaint about the modern Camaro. The high beltline and shallow glass create a letterbox effect, the blind spots are enormous, and reversing without the camera is close to guesswork. Drive one before you buy, and park it a few times.

The back seat and trunk are the worst in the class. Both the Mustang and the Challenger beat it. The Camaro’s rear seat is functionally luggage space, and the trunk opening is a narrow slot.

Fuel economy. The V8s drink, and the V6 is not much better in traffic. Only the 2.0-litre turbo returns anything respectable.

Insurance. A V8 coupe prices as exactly what it is, particularly for younger drivers. Get quotes on specific cars before you commit, and read our overview of how premiums are calculated.

Most have been driven hard. The Camaro attracts owners who use the power. Assume the car in front of you has had a life until the records prove otherwise.

Known faults worth checking

The 8-speed automatic shudder. The most important item on this list. GM’s 8L45 and 8L90 automatics, fitted to sixth-generation cars, produced widespread complaints of shuddering and harsh shifting, generally traced to the torque converter and transmission fluid. GM issued service bulletins and it became the subject of litigation. Drive at a steady 30 to 50 mph and feel for a vibration that resembles driving over rumble strips.

Active Fuel Management lifters. The L99 V8 in fifth-generation automatic SS models uses cylinder deactivation, and the associated lifters are a known GM failure point. Listen for a tick and ask whether the lifters have been addressed.

Early V6 timing chains. The 3.6-litre in 2010 and 2011 cars had reported timing chain wear and oil consumption. Check the oil level and the service history on those years specifically.

Modifications. Tunes, headers, superchargers and drag radials all tell you how the car was used. Stock cars with records are worth paying more for.

Which one should you buy?

Best overall: a 2017 to 2023 sixth-generation SS. The Alpha chassis, the LT1 V8, and enough depreciation to make it sensible. Take the manual if you can, which sidesteps the 8-speed question entirely.

Best value: a sixth-generation V6 with the 1LE package. Most of the handling for much less money, and cheaper to insure and fuel.

Best cheap V8: a fifth-generation SS with the manual, which gets you the LS3 rather than the L99 and avoids the AFM lifter issue.

Best daily driver: the 2.0-litre turbo. Enthusiasts will object. It is still a rear-drive coupe that handles well, and it costs a fraction as much to run.

Best long-term hold: a Z/28 or ZL1. Both are limited, both are exceptional, and neither is getting cheaper now that production has ended.

Before you buy

Get a pre-purchase inspection. Not optional on a car this likely to have been used hard. Ask specifically about the transmission and, on V8 automatics, the lifters.

Run the VIN. A history report catches accident damage and title problems for very little money.

Drive it cold. Ask the seller not to warm it up. Cold-start noises and transmission behaviour are where problems reveal themselves.

Negotiate the out-the-door price, not the monthly payment. Our guide to the best places to buy a used car covers where to shop and what to watch for.

Cross-shopping is sensible here. Our Mustang versus Camaro comparison is the direct answer, and the used Mustang guide and used Challenger guide cover the alternatives. In short: the Camaro handles best, the Mustang is the most rounded, and the Challenger is the roomiest and most comfortable.

Common questions

Is the Chevy Camaro discontinued?

Yes. Production ended in January 2024 with the sixth generation. Chevrolet has said the nameplate may return in some form, but nothing has been confirmed.

What is the best year for a used Camaro?

2017 to 2023 for the sixth-generation SS. For value, a fifth-generation manual SS gets you the LS3 V8 considerably cheaper.

Are used Camaros reliable?

Mechanically sound by performance car standards, with two caveats: the 8-speed automatic shudder on sixth-generation cars and the AFM lifters on fifth-generation automatic V8s. Both are checkable before you buy.

Is the Camaro really that hard to see out of?

Yes. It is the single most common owner complaint on the fifth and sixth generations. Sit in one and reverse it before deciding.

Camaro or Mustang?

Camaro if handling matters most. Mustang if you want the better all-rounder, the larger aftermarket and a car still in production. The Camaro’s discontinuation cuts both ways: scarcity supports values, but parts and dealer familiarity favour the Ford long term.

Is the V6 Camaro worth buying?

With the 1LE package, absolutely. It is quick, it handles nearly as well as the SS, and it costs meaningfully less to insure and run.

The post Buying a Used Chevy Camaro: Pros, Cons and the Years That Matter appeared first on WhichCar.org.

This is a guide to the generations you are realistically shopping, what goes wrong with each, and where the value actually sits.

The generations you will be looking at

S197 (2005-2014): the cheap way in

The retro-styled car that revived the Mustang’s fortunes. Solid rear axle throughout, which is the defining limitation, and a live-axle car is fine in a straight line and unhappy on a bumpy back road.

Engine history matters here. The V6 was a 4.0-liter making 210 horsepower through 2010, then a much better 3.7-liter with 305 horsepower from 2011. The GT used a 4.6-liter V8 making around 300 horsepower until 2010, when the 5.0-liter Coyote arrived with over 400.

The 2011 model year is the dividing line. Cars before it are noticeably slower and worth less; cars after it are the ones to target.

S550 (2015-2023): the modern one

The generation that finally fitted independent rear suspension, and it transformed the car. This is where the Mustang stopped being a straight-line machine with a chassis problem and became something you could take on a twisty road without apologizing.

The lineup was a 2.3-liter EcoBoost four at 310 horsepower, a 3.7-liter V6 that disappeared after 2017, and the 5.0-liter GT at 435 horsepower, raised to 460 for 2018 along with an available ten-speed automatic.

Above those sat the interesting ones. The Shelby GT350 used a 5.2-liter flat-plane-crank V8 revving to 8,250 rpm, which sounds like nothing else Ford has built. The Bullitt and the Mach 1 were 480-horsepower specials. The GT500 arrived for 2020 with a supercharged 760 horsepower.

S650 (2024 onward): still nearly new

The current car, with a 480-horsepower GT and the 500-horsepower Dark Horse above it. Too new to have a meaningful used market or a reliability record. Our Dark Horse breakdown covers what that model offers.

The pros

Performance per dollar is still unmatched. A used GT delivers acceleration that cost supercar money two decades ago, at a price most people can reach. Nothing else offers a V8 and rear-wheel drive this cheaply.

The aftermarket is effectively infinite. More parts exist for the Mustang than for any other car in America. Whatever you want to do to it, someone sells the kit and someone has written the guide.

Parts and repair are cheap. Every mechanic in the country has worked on one. Compare that to a used German performance car, where a specialist inspection alone costs what a Mustang water pump costs installed.

It is the last one standing. With the Camaro and Challenger both out of production, the Mustang is the only traditional V8 pony car still being made. That has already started to firm up values on the good used versions.

Depreciation has mostly happened. A well-kept S550 GT holds value better than most performance cars of the same age, and the special editions have stopped falling entirely.

The cons

The rear seat is not usable. Around 30 inches of legroom, behind long doors that need a wide parking space to open. Adults will fit for a short trip and resent you for it. If you regularly carry four people, buy something else.

No all-wheel drive, ever. The Mustang has always been rear-drive only. With winter tires it is manageable in snow, and with the summer tires most performance trims came on it is genuinely unusable. Budget for a second set of wheels if you live somewhere cold.

Fuel economy is what you would expect. The V8 cars return low-to-mid twenties on the highway if you are gentle, and considerably less if you are not.

Insurance is expensive, especially young. A V8 coupe is priced as exactly what it is. Get quotes on specific VINs before you commit, and read our overview of how car insurance is calculated if the number surprises you.

Most used examples have been driven hard. This is the real one. Mustangs attract owners who want to use the power, and a decade of that leaves marks the odometer does not show.

Known problems by generation

The 3-valve 4.6-liter V8 (2005-2010) breaks spark plugs. The two-piece design seizes in the head and separates on removal, turning a routine service into an extraction job. Ask when the plugs were last changed and whether the shop had trouble.

The MT82 manual (2011 onward) has a reputation. Notchy shifts, occasional grinding into third, and difficulty selecting gears when cold. Ford revised it repeatedly. Drive any manual car hard through every gear, cold and warm, before buying.

The Coyote 5.0 can tick. Some noise is normal for this engine and some indicates a real problem. Have someone who knows the engine listen before you assume either way.

The GT350’s flat-plane V8 uses oil. That is characteristic rather than a defect, but early cars had documented issues. These are specialist cars now and deserve a specialist inspection.

Check for modifications and abuse. A tune, a supercharger, drag radials, or a welded differential all tell you how the car lived. So does uneven rear tire wear, a clutch biting at the top of its travel, and a hastily repainted rear quarter panel.

Which one should you buy?

Best all-round buy: a 2018 or later S550 GT. The 460-horsepower engine, independent rear suspension, and the improved interior make this the sweet spot. Manual if you want the experience, ten-speed automatic if you want the quicker car.

Best value: a 2011-2014 S197 GT. The Coyote engine at S197 prices. You give up the independent rear suspension and the modern cabin, and you save a lot of money.

Best daily driver: an EcoBoost S550. Considerably cheaper to run and insure, still quick, and it handles well. Enthusiasts will tell you it is not a real Mustang. Enthusiasts are not paying your fuel bill.

Best if you plan to keep it: a Bullitt, Mach 1, or GT350. Limited-run cars have stopped depreciating and several have started climbing.

Avoid: the pre-2011 V6. It is slow enough to be frustrating and cheap enough to have attracted careless owners. If your budget only reaches that, our list of the best cars under $10k has better options.

Before you buy

Get a pre-purchase inspection. Not optional on a car this likely to have been thrashed. A compression test on a V8 with unknown history is money well spent.

Ask for records, not stories. A folder of receipts is worth more than a low odometer reading.

Drive it cold. Ask the seller not to warm it up. Cold start noises and cold-gearbox behavior are where the problems show themselves.

Check the tires. Mismatched brands, uneven rear wear, or cheap tires on an expensive car all tell you something about the last owner’s priorities.

For where to shop, see our guide to the best places to buy a used car. If you are cross-shopping, the Mustang versus Camaro and Mustang versus Challenger comparisons cover the rivals, and our Mustang evolution history traces the whole line from 1964.

Common questions

What is the best year for a used Mustang?

2018 through 2023 for the S550 GT, which combines the 460-horsepower engine with the improved interior and independent rear suspension. For value, 2011 through 2014 gets you the Coyote V8 much cheaper.

Are used Mustangs reliable?

Mechanically, yes, by performance car standards. The risk is condition rather than design, because these get driven hard. Buy on history rather than on model year.

Is the EcoBoost Mustang worth buying?

Yes, if running costs matter. It is quick, handles well, and costs meaningfully less to fuel and insure. You lose the V8 sound, which for some buyers is the entire point.

Can you drive a Mustang in snow?

With winter tires, yes. On the summer tires most performance trims came with, no. There has never been an all-wheel-drive Mustang coupe.

How much should I budget beyond the purchase price?

Set aside for tires and brakes at minimum, since both wear fast and neither is cheap on a V8 car. If the service history is thin, budget for a full catch-up in the first year.

The post Buying a Used Ford Mustang: Pros, Cons and the Years That Matte appeared first on WhichCar.org.

Regardless of its age, a modern Dodge Challenger is always ready to burn some rubber, whether on a plain road or a drag strip. This fact alone is attractive for any seasoned car guy but here we will indulge you in some key considerations that must be kept in mind when buying a performance-packed car like the Challenger.

So, without further ado let’s dig right into the key factors to consider when buying a used Dodge Challenger, including performance, reliability, cost, and more.

Related: Dodge Demon vs. Hellcat: Which Muscle Car is Best?

Pros of Owning a Dodge Challenger

1. Muscle Car V8 Performance:

The Dodge Challenger is known for its impressive performance. The base variant’s 305 hp V6 might be a bit underwhelming but you can always go for the punchy Hemi V8, which delivers plenty of power and torque. This makes for a thrilling driving experience and plenty of speed whenever you want it.

Traditionally, American muscle cars have been thought of as straight-line speed monsters, but the newer iterations of the Challenger have improved significantly when it comes to handling tricky bends and corners. The manual transmission offered provides complete control and the AWD on some variants further enhances the control on tricky situations.

2. Retro Muscular Styling:

The design of the Challenger has been around for almost a decade and is still functional. If you like the muscle car look, you’ll like everything from the long nose hanging over a broad grille to the vintage quad headlights. The Dodge Challenger epitomizes “retro-cool,” with its low, long, and wide muscular body ensuring you don’t mistake it for anything other than an American muscle vehicle.

The Challenger has a distinct and aggressive design that turns heads. The wide stance, long hood, and sleek lines have been made more prominent over the years which has added to the appeal of the mighty Challenger. The pronounced creases and the distinct front and rear end draw attention from a mile away, something for which older muscle car owners invest considerable time and money.

3. Roomy & Comfy Interior:

For a 2-door muscle car, the Dodge Challenger is surprisingly roomy with ample legroom and headroom for the front occupants. The rear seats may not be roomy enough for an adult but they can easily accommodate a young child or a baby seat if you are a new parent.

There are good chances that you may come across a Challenger owner using his pony car as a family car which may seem a bit odd but it goes in favor of the Challenger as being friendly for new parents. Lastly, there is the option of taking your beloved Challenger on a long ride and enjoying the V8 grunt in all its glory.

4 Great Tech Options:

The Challenger may have an old-school look, but it features a sophisticated and feature-packed infotainment system. Dodge could have gotten away with providing us the absolute minimum with a vehicle like the Challenger, but glancing at the infotainment, you’ll see where the money went – and it was well-spent.

The list of variants for the latest Challenger is essentially endless. You can choose from up to seven different Challenger models and some other trims as well that offer some minor add-ons.

From the entry-level V6 SXT and AWD Challenger GT to the Supercharged V8 high-performance SRT Hellcat, you can experience the thrill of pure American muscle power in a variety of formats. This also translates into the fact that you can find a Challenger that fits your other particular needs like longevity, fuel consumption, and other creature comforts.

5. The Mopar & Challenger Community:

One often ignored benefit of owning a Challenger is the various communities and dedicated forums that make you feel like a member of the Challenger family. Enthusiasts in such forums discuss various meetups, tips and techniques for getting the best out of your performance-packed pony car. Once you join such communities, it is hard to let go as there is an attachment that one develops over time.

Related: How To Buy a Dodge Demon 170: What You Need To Know

Cons of Owning Dodge Challenger

1. Cost of Ownership is Really High:

The Challenger is not precisely known for its low running costs and owning a Challenger can be expensive with high insurance rates, repair costs and fuel consumption. The high fuel consumption is a no-brainer but the tire replacements can be quite frequent and heavy on your wallet. Performance tires deliver exceptional grip but their tread also wears off quickly.

2. Not good beginner driver car:

Not to rain on anyone’s parade, but the Challenger is not for everyone, particularly beginners and those searching for their first car. The Challenger is a no-holds-barred burnout machine that is far faster than conventional cars. So think twice before purchasing the Challenger as your first car or giving it to a giddy teen.

3. Reliability is Not Great:

While the Challenger is generally considered a reliable car, older models may have more issues. Dodge has traditionally scored lower on reliability ratings but the brand has improved considerably in recent times. As with any used car purchase, it’s important to have a good mechanic inspect the vehicle before buying to check for any potential problems.

4. Poor to Awful fuel economy:

As muscle cars go, the Challenger doesn’t have the best fuel economy, which can add up over time. With a V8 engine, the Challenger can get 12-15 mpg in the city, and 18-25 mpg on the highway, which is lower compared to other cars such as the Ecoboost Mustang and base model Camaro. You’d be lucky to get a combined fuel average of 15-18 mpg, though the figure can always rise higher provided you are willing to go easy on the gas pedal (but who wants to do that?).

5. Limited Everyday Utility:

The Challenger’s sporty design makes it less practical than other cars on the market. It is not an ideal choice for carrying cargo and hauling large items. Furthermore, the Challenger isn’t the best choice as a daily commuter since it has two doors, more road noise and a firmer ride.

Related: Dodge Challenger Hellcat vs. Scat Pack. Which is Best?

Why this might be the best time to buy a used or a new Challenger:

The era of electrification is upon us and every automaker is racing to electrify its lineup. Dodge is no different in this regard and it has now officially confirmed that the ongoing generation of both the Challenger and the Charger are the last ones to feature are pure gas-powered powertrains. Keeping this news in mind, it is probably the best time for Challenger fans to get their hands on their beloved muscle car.

The used car market is currently rather hot but the prices are gradually cooling down. With the Challenger facing a certain axe, the current sellers are already demanding a higher-than-usual ask for their pony car. The likelihood of Challenger becoming a collector’s item is also quite imminent, especially the ones with V8 engines. Thus, it might be best to act now then get price shocks in the future.

Related: 5 Reasons Why The Dodge Challenger GT AWD Is Actually Amazing

Owning a Dodge Challenger Final Verdict

Making a buying decision is, at times, quite tricky and confusing. With numerous muscle cars available in the market, it isn’t as straightforward to pick one as it may seem. A preowned Dodge Challenger ticks all the important boxes but there are still some aspects that aren’t to everyone’s liking. Nevertheless, a Dodge Challenger with its screaming V8 engine is a joy worth owning and experiencing.

The imminent discontinuation of the Challenger is making its fans rush through the whole buying process. It is true that the days of the gasoline Dodge muscle cars are numbered, but it is crucial to take your time and review all the facts before finalizing the decision to buy any car, let alone a muscle car that is different in nature to other mainstream vehicles.

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