Car Models

In the Car Models Channel, read about some of the most popular cars to hit the showroom floor. Check out the HowStuffWorks Car Models Channel.

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Once upon a time, an eco-friendly car buyer could go green and save money on taxes at the same time. You could still do that -- to an extent -- but the rules have changed.

By Linda C. Brinson

Motor vehicles emit several different pollutants, including particulate matter and volatile organic compounds. But just how much pollution do cars produce?

By Meghan E. Smith

That smell of a new car never seems to get old. But the car itself will. When it does and it's time to sell it, you may not get much for that old conventional vehicle. But will you do better with a hybrid?

By Josh Briggs

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Though all hybrid vehicles reduce gas consumption and get great mileage, they don’t all have the same types of engine. Let's take a look at some of the different technologies that make hybrids run.

By Alison Kim Perry

Does it cost more to maintain a hybrid car than a conventional gasoline-fueled car? Not really, but you could run into big trouble if your hybrid breaks down without a warranty.

By Linda C. Brinson

You probably know that a hybrid car uses both a gasoline engine and an electric motor. But greater complexity often translates into less efficiency. So how does this combination of power sources actually cut fuel use?

By John Kelly

You may save money on gas by driving a hybrid, but buying one isn't cheap. Is the insurance for these vehicles also pricey?

By Clint Pumphrey

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So, you're getting a little bored with vehicles with four, two or even three wheels? How about a motorized vehicle with just one wheel? A monowheel just might give you the thrill you're looking for.

By Patrick E. George

There's no doubt that Ferrari has cultivated a reputation of race-bred engineering combined with old-school dedication to craftsmanship. But how long does the build process take from beginning to end?

By Akweli Parker

Amphibious cars are often laughed at and thought of as steady-but-slow vintage entrants in July 4th lake parades across the country. However, the WaterCar Python is raising amphibious car status.

By Eric Baxter

Gentlemen, start your checkbooks! These classic cars each have a history all their own and a price tag to blow your mind. The starting point is $6.9 million if you want one of these beauties parked in your garage.

By Patrick E. George

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There are more than 2,800 small airports scattered throughout the United States -- and they're vastly underused. Maybe these small, relatively affordable (and roadable) planes can put them to good use?

By Akweli Parker

A public road, in a notoriously buttoned-up country, where people can drive as fast as their engines and nerves will allow. It sounds almost too good to be true, doesn't it? Learn about 10 vehicles that have been pushed to their limits on this fabled road.

By Jamie Page Deaton & Kristen Hall-Geisler

The Audi R8 straddles the line between high-priced supercar and luxurious daily driver. Essentially, you're getting Lamborghini-like performance at Porsche 911 Turbo prices.

By Jamie Page Deaton

By now you're probably familiar with the basics of how a hybrid vehicle works. But how knowledgeable are you when it comes to plug-in hybrid vehicle operation -- specifically charging?

By Christopher Lampton

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It seems that plug-in hybrids are the next logical step in hybrid vehicle technology. But, are plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) truly better than regular hybrids?

By Christopher Neiger

It wasn't long ago when gas-electric hybrid cars were the latest innovation on the roads. Now, automakers are shifting their attention to plug-in hybrid vehicles. Can buying one save you money on your taxes?

By Akweli Parker

Electric car charging networks are operational in several parts of the world. However, they're mainly for demonstration only, at this point. When might a charging network be available in your neighborhood?

By Christopher Lampton

Is designing a car a science or an art? Actually, it's both. But sometimes the final product is simply too bizarre, expensive, impractical (or even dangerous) to gain much public interest.

By Akweli Parker

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Early lowriders cruised the streets of California in the 1930s in customized cars to impress the girls. Find out why these 10 bajito y suavecito cars made our list.

By Jamie Page Deaton

Some people see the world in an entirely different light. Art car artists, for example, see a car as a blank canvas they can cover with doll heads, stained glass, rubber ducks, silverware and fur.

By Kristen Hall-Geisler

The BMW X6 ActiveHybrid concept is a vehicle that blurs the lines between SUV, hatchback and sports car. But how does the X6 ActiveHybrid achieve fuel economy and improved performance, too?

By Patrick E. George

Similar to other auto shows, the cars are the stars at any Concours d'Elegance event. But that's where the similarities end. Concours d'Elegance shows are truly unique for many reasons.

By Christopher Neiger

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If you're looking for a new car or truck, there's a chance you're considering a hybrid. Before you sign any paperwork, take a look at why you may not want to.

By Patrick E. George & Kristen Hall-Geisler

Some people dream of owning a brand new Escalade or Maybach, but others have bigger -- and older -- dreams. If you'd rather drive a classic, the accessibility and ease of car restoration can turn that vision into reality.

By Patrick E. George