If you are a car enthusiast planning on investing in a sports car to replace your current vehicle, it is best that you conduct some research to find out the advantages and disadvantages of owning a sports car. Sports car are considered a good investment as the resale value of these vehicles do not depreciate at a rate that it does for other vehicles. Car owners also have a chance to customize their vehicles and not to mention the high-performance engine that comes equipped with them.
However, some challenges come with sports cars that every motorist must be aware of before they decide to purchase one. If you are living in an area with a rainy climate, buying an open-roof convertible may not be a good idea as even the hard-top or soft-top roof options end up experiencing leaks. For those with a family, a sports car may not be much of a used as most sports cars are only two-seaters and have limited cargo space as well. The upkeep and care of the premium vehicle are also not inexpensive.
Here are some disadvantages of owning a sports car that every motorist must know.
Sports Cars Require Premium Fuel
These expensive vehicles are equipped with high-performance engines and most of them also function best on premium fuel to prevent detonation. However, premium fuel cost more than regular fuel which is an additional expense that a sports car owner must bear throughout their use of the vehicle. using an octane fuel instead will result in carbon build-up that can cause the engine to run roughly.
Sports Cars have Costly Wheels
The wheels of a sports car are distinctive from regular vehicles as they are wider and large to offer the vehicle a better grip on the road. Sports cars require wheels that get a sufficient grip on the road, which is why car manufacturers tend to apply a heavier and sticky compound on tyres. This makes the tyres soft that results in lower mileage. The rate at which tyres of a sports car are changed is faster than a sedan. Wheels for sports cars are low profile that assists the motorists with steering function. Given that such high-end technology goes into producing such tyres, they cost more to manufacture so they are more expensive than a regular tyre. The size of the wheel is around 18-19 inches that mean that they have more rubber that will need replacement once you change tyres, so they cost more.
The Issue of Low Ground Clearance.
The low ground clearance of a sports car contributes to the exciting road experience. However, being only a few inches above the ground, the body especially the underbody of the vehicle is bound to get damaged while driving off speed bumps, driveways, and rough terrains. The frond-end of the vehicle is more susceptible to damage, especially the bumper. The bumpers are built to endure some impact like the curbs and parking blocks, but over time it can become problematic for the car owner.
One thing that car owners can do to prevent damage is to understand how low the vehicle is and drive carefully. Some vehicles have the option of raising the height to avoid damage.
The Parts of Sports Cars Cost More
The parts of the vehicle are designed to be lightweight to keep the overall weight of the vehicle light. The parts are also over-engineered compared to other economy vehicles. The brake rotors of a sports car are bigger so, the calipers are bigger. Owing to the size of the brake calipers, the brake pads are required to be bigger as well. Moreover, many manufacturers use aluminum to manufacture parts as it is light in weight as compared to stamped steel. Some manufacturers also use carbon fiber however, it is an expensive alternative. Vehicles made from carbon fiber have more expensive parts.
Sports Cars are Not Suitable Vehicles for Winters
Most sports cars are rear-wheel drive, which makes them difficult to maneuver during winter. The rear of the vehicle tends to slide out during winters causing grip issues. This is especially problematic when driving over snow. The engine is unable to supply weight to the rear wheels that result in the wheels sinking into the snow. It is best that car owners who live in northern climates to invest in winter tyres, to improve this issue.
Conclusion
There are always some pros and cons of owning a particular vehicle, so car owners must weigh in both. This will help them understand if they can determine the best way forward for them.
