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Category Archives: Celebrity Auto News
The top 7 best cars in movies
Think of your favorite movies. What are some of the key elements that made those films so memorable? The characters? The story? Some of the greatest movies cemented their places in pop culture because of the cars featured in them. Let's take a glance at the seven best cars from the movies:
1. 2015 Aston Martin DB10 from "Spectre"
Some would argue that the defining characteristics of the James Bond films are the cars, specifically the Aston Martins. Each film features a newer, sexier version than the last. As a result, the latest 007 movie left audiences in awe of the Aston Martin DB10. The sleek body and tricked-out features will leave any car enthusiast drooling.
2. 1970 Dodge Charger from "The Fast and the Furious"
The FatF franchise is known for its crazy race scenes and modified cars. However, there is one vehicle that stands apart from the rest. Dom's classic Charger is a true thing of beauty. This car was also featured in the "Dukes of Hazzard" as the General Lee.
3. 1984 Ford Econoline from "Dumb and Dumber"
To avoid taking ourselves too seriously, we can all admit that we loved the Mutts Cutts van from the 1994 comedy classic. It's almost impossible not to giggle every time the shaggy, dog-faced Econoline comes chugging onto the screen.
4. 1973 Ford Falcon from "Mad Max"
Though the filmmakers altered the car to give it more of a wasteland appearance, the Ford Falcon still impressed audiences the moment it revved up. In fact, Popular Mechanics ranks this ride the 8th most popular car from movies.
Cars are a big part of what makes certain movies special to audiences.5. 2008 Audi R8 from "Iron Man"
Any machinery that impresses Tony Stark should earn our respect. That is why when Iron Man himself rolled onto the scene in an Audi R8, we decided to take a moment to acknowledge the beauty and power behind the car. According to Auto Trader, this car is the first sports car from Audi and comes with a "420 horsepower V8 engine and Quattro all-wheel drive."
6. 1958 Plymouth Fury from "Christine"
What would this list be if we neglected to include the iconic Christine? If any car could take Arnie from geek to cool in a few scenes, it was the Plymouth Fury. Hopefully, drivers who choose to get behind the wheel of their own don't get the same evil urges he did
7. 1981 DeLorian from "Back to the Future"
While this car is last on our list, it's first in many of the hearts of film lovers. John DeLorian's brainchild redefined the limits for vehicle design. Though his product was a market flop, it's still fun to watch Doc and Marty punch it to a whopping 88 MPH to successfully travel through time.
Cinema could be considered a moving time capsule for different generations. Looking at movies across the decades, we can see what people found most attractive and interesting about the cars of the time. To find one of the cars on our list for yourself, visit the New Jersey State Auto Auction website today.
Questions to ask when buying a used car
Buying a car is serious business, and it can be an intimidating process. If you're considering purchasing a used car, things can get even trickier. Not all dealers have reputable sales methods. For this reason, it's important to understand the used car-buying process and ask the right questions.
Is this car in my budget?
The first step for any potential car buyer is to determine how much they can afford to spend. It's a smart idea to compile a list of cars you are interested in to get insurance quotes, check tax rates and compare payments. This will help you narrow down your list to vehicles that will fit comfortably in your predetermined budget. Remember that selecting a car you can't afford can lead to poor credit and other negative consequences. Consult with a financial advisor if you need help establishing a budget.
Does it have a vehicle history report?
Before you purchase a car, you should run a vehicle history report. All you need is the Vehicle Identification Number to determine if the purchase you are about to make it a good one. These reports will outline the vehicle's past ownership. The Department of Motor Vehicles also reports that these will also tell you if the car has ever had maintenance done, if there have ever been problems with the title, if there are any liens on the vehicle, if the car was ever involved in an accident and whether the car has ever been classified as a "lemon." A vehicle history report will ensure that the used vehicle you select will operate as you expect it to.
Asking these questions will help you get the best used car in your budget.Did I notice anything unusual in the test drive?
The test drive is another important part of the car-buying process. It allows you to get behind the wheel of your desired car and see how it handles. A test drive will also alert potential buyers to any issues before a sale. During a test drive, you should be vigilant for any problems with performance. Your test drive doesn't end once you return to the car lot, though. You should open and close all doors, windows, the trunk and the hood to make sure that they operate properly.
Am I getting this car for the best price?
Everyone wants to make sure they are getting the best price when buying a car, but to guarantee this, you must do a little research. Online price guides will tell you how much the model year is worth, but it's up to you to negotiate the true value. If the car has had significant work done, it is usually smart to talk the price down.
Buying your first used car may seem like an overwhelming experience. However, if you educate yourself and ask the right questions, you will find yourself in a much better position to purchase the used car of your dreams.
To find used cars that are reliable and affordable, click here.
Lincoln shows off impressive new concept car at NY Auto Show
Attendees of the 2016 New York International Auto Show were treated to a first look at Lincoln's new Navigator concept car. The unusual model probably had onlookers half-expecting the vehicle to set sails or take flight – anything but simply drive down the street.
According to Yahoo! Finance, the statement-making Lincoln Navigator concept took its inspiration from yachting. The model boasts large, graceful gullwing doors that sweep out from either side of the vehicle and a classy retro interior that features seaworthy teak detailing.
The reveal of the impressive vehicle follows a years-long effort by the Lincoln brand to revive its image and boost sales. The brand, owned by Ford, believes the new design, is just what consumers need – even if it is a little over-the-top.
"Gullwing doors are not at the top of [consumers] needs right now," said president of the Lincoln brand Kumar Galhotra in an interview with USA Today. "There are two reasons that we did this. One is that it's a concept. Concept (vehicles) offer great ways to explore ideas. The second is that the interior of the vehicle is very important … and this is a great way to showcase that interior."
Rehabbing the brand
The past several years have not been easy for Lincoln. According to Yahoo! Finance, the brand sold a miniscule 80,000 vehicles in 2014 – compared to around 250,000 a year in the early 1990s. Its most famous offering, the Lincoln Continental, had since retired, and its last remaining major player, the Lincoln Navigator, was a clunky SUV that cost a small fortune just to fill up, explained the source.
Ford was considering shuttering Lincoln's doors forever, but Mark Fields, who would later become Ford's CEO, talked the then-CEO out of it, feeling a renewed sense of hope in the brand's future.
Key to the brand's future were two things: a commitment to "quiet luxury" as the Lincoln mantra and Matthew McConaughey.
You've seen the commercials: A suave McConaughey drives a Lincoln around while muttering weird things. Sometimes he's en route to a fancy dinner party, sometimes he's randomly in the desert facing down a bull. No matter the setting, you can be sure he's going to say some strange stuff like:
"Sometimes you gotta go back to actually move forward." Or: "That's a big bull." Or even: "I just liked it."
What are you trying to say, Matthew?! The ads are odd and unconventional, that's for sure. But they certainly worked, despite of – or perhaps because of – their weirdness. After the premier of the ads, Lincoln had its strongest October sales since 2007, with sales up 25 percent, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
A wave of parodies followed suit, the most famous of which were a series of SNL skits starring Jim Carrey. According to THR, the skits led to a more than 100 percent increase in Lincoln brand visibility on social media.
Quiet luxury soars
The many, many parodies of the McConaughey ads aside, Lincoln's new image took flight. With lots of luxury vehicles on the market that emphasized engine power and other hard performance specs, Lincoln leadership wanted to appeal to wealthy consumers that didn't care for hefty horsepower or turbo-charged stats, explained Yahoo! Finance. "Quiet luxury" was what Lincoln wanted to represent, and it seems to be working.
"We made a very big commitment to Lincoln about three years ago, saying we want to turn Lincoln into a world-class luxury brand with a client experience to match," said current Ford CEO Mark in an interview with Business Insider, as reported by Yahoo! Finance. "And we've had a lot of success implementing that strategy. We grew our sales and our market share two years in a row. In the first couple of months of this year our sales are up 19%."
And the gullwing-boasting Lincoln Navigator is all about taking that quiet luxury to new heights. According to USA Today, the production version of the vehicle is slated to go on sale in 2017, which is exactly 20 years after the original Navigator was introduced to the world.
But you don't need to be a millionaire – or Matthew McConaughey – to drive a Lincoln. Head to NJ State Auto today to find a Lincoln that suits your wallet, and your needs.
A Look At What Oscar Nominees Are Driving
The Academy Awards show is widely considered to be the most prestigious ceremony in Hollywood. Every year, the Academy recognizes the best creative minds the film industry has to offer, and those who are lucky enough to nab a nomination in the acting categories often go on to become some of the world's biggest stars.
Regardless of who takes home the coveted statue, all nominees often become fixtures in Hollywood. That means you'll be seeing a lot more of these faces and learning many of the details about their lives – including what kind of cars they're driving. Answer Financial got a head start on this by digging up the vehicle choices for this year's nominees.
Celebrities love luxury
If there's one thing many of this year's Oscar nominees love, it's their luxury cars. That's especially true among the individuals in the Best Actor category. Frontrunners Eddie Redmayne and Michael Keaton, who have been nominated for their roles in "The Theory of Everything" and "Birdman," respectively, are fans of Audi. Redmayne was seen in a silver Audi Q7 SUV, while Keaton – a former cab driver – now gets behind the wheel of an Audi S4.
These actors may be the favorites in their race, but they still have to beat out competitors Bradley Cooper, Steve Carell and Benedict Cumberbatch. Cooper, nominated for his performance in "American Sniper," regularly drives a Mercedes G55 Wagon, while Carell, who received a nod for his role in "Foxcatcher," was previously spotted driving a Porsche.
Few low-key rides
Not every nominee chooses to get behind the wheel of a high-priced vehicle. Julianne Moore, who is the heavy favorite to win the prize for Best Actress thanks to her emotional performance in "Still Alice," prefers to drive a Toyota Prius. That's a far cry from some of her fellow nominees. Reese Witherspoon, who turned heads in "Wild," drives a Lexus RX, while "Two Days One Night" star Marion Cotillard owns a Jaguar XF. Rosamund Pike has similar taste. The "Gone Girl" actress has been seen in a Mercedes-Benz C-Class, according to Answer Financial.
Even if you can't afford the same expensive vehicles the stars have, you can still make sure you're driving a quality automobile. Not sure where to begin? Head to New Jersey State Auto Auction. The lot is home to hundreds of Carfax-certified used cars, and one of these vehicles could be the right investment for you.
Warren Buffett Auctions Off His Used Car
Ever heard of Warren Buffett? This tremendously successful businessman has been one of the biggest industry leaders for decades. While you may not know the details about his dealings, you've probably heard about his massive net worth and numerous charitable endeavors. His latest move is no different, as Buffett is putting one of his used cars up for auction to benefit an organization in his town of Omaha, Nebraska.
About the auction
Buffett donated his 2006 Cadillac DTS to Girls Inc. of Omaha. The charity, which was founded in part by the businessman's late wife and aims to empower young women, is selling the car to the highest bidder in an effort to raise money.
According to The Wall Street Journal, the 8-year-old car has accumulated a little over 20,300 miles in its life. However, its vehicle history isn't totally clean: Buffett was involved in a fender-bender with the car in 2006, but he had the vehicle repaired, and it's been well-maintained ever since. It hasn't been wasting away in his garage, either – the source noted that Buffett drove the car until 2014 and then chose to donate it.
The Cadillac's value is about $12,000, but the association with Buffett is going to raise the price tag. Also contributing to its worth is the Buffett autograph scrawled on the dashboard and the fact that the tycoon is offering to hand over the keys to the winner in person. All the car's new driver has to do is get to Nebraska and pick up the ride. Bids are being collected online from Feb. 11 to 19.
Pick up your own vehicle
The starting bid for the Cadillac is $10,000, and the final bid will likely be much higher. While that may be too rich for your taste, there are still ways you can find used cars for sale without raising your budget or sacrificing performance on the road.
At New Jersey State Auto, for instance, you can browse through used car deals that come in under that $10,000 mark. Not only are these vehicles great for your wallet, but they still have the safety features and high quality you're looking for. No matter what your budget is, you can find a vehicle – and financing option – that works for you.
Super Bowl Car Commercials: 3 Things We Learned
Chances are you were one of the hundreds of millions of people who tuned into the Super Bowl. While fans of the New England Patriots are reveling in their championship joy and the Seattle Seahawks faithful are in despair over play calling, those with no rooting interest are probably more interested in the commercials.
There were plenty of memorable ads that aired during the big game, but some stood out more than others. Many of these spots came from the auto industry. While there were fewer commercials from automakers than in recent years, the spots certainly had some resonance. Here's three things we learned from these ads.
1. Technology matters
Chevrolet decided to give Super Bowl viewers – all 100-million plus of them – a brief scare in the early minutes of the game. The ad began with a Super Bowl introduction before the screen abruptly cut to black. Then it returned with a simple message: "What would you do if your TV went out?" Although viewers were likely breathing huge sighs of relief, they also got the chance to think about the Chevy Colorado and its built-in Wi-Fi.
In another tech-centric ad, BMW used a 20-year-old clip from "The Today Show," which featured anchors Katie Couric and Bryant Gumbel attempting to talk about the Internet. Then the scene cut to the present day, with the two newscasters sitting in a BMW and trying to wrap their minds around the new advancements.
2. We love adventure
Automakers have long tried to appeal to drivers' sense of adventure. That's certainly what Jeep was going for in its ad. The 90-second commercial including some sweeping shots of global landscapes, all set to "This Land is Your Land." The Detroit Free Press noted that this "Beautiful Lands" campaign aims to raise awareness of safe water supplies as well as Jeep models.
3. Humor is overrated
In the past, commercials have competed to be the funniest of the night. They usually employ a combination of celebrities, athletes and outrageous situations. This year was a bit different. Although Fiat elicited some chuckles with a spot centered around a special blue pill enhancing a 500X crossover, many commercials were a bit somber, with several focusing on fathers, life lessons and sharing special moments.
With something for everyone, these commercials may have struck a chord with prospective buyers. If that's the case for you, be sure to head to New Jersey State Auto Auction, which has hundreds of Carfax-certified used cars for sale.
Check Out These Star-Studded Celebrity Car Campaigns
Cars and celebrities are a match made in heaven, and auto manufacturers know it. This is why more stars have been driving their way into ad campaigns in recent years. Using star power to sell a product is far from new, but the double glitz factor of famous people in fancy cars is particularly intriguing for consumers. Especially when it comes to high-end luxury models, pairing a famous face with a high-end car can be a good way for manufacturers to generate an added buying incentive for those who may be on the fence about splurging on a new set of wheels.
Here are some of the more recent and high-profile celebrity car campaigns:
Audi
The German car company launched a campaign back in March to raise awareness of its new A3, the first in the manufacturer's line of affordable luxury cars, AutoNews.com reported. In order to generate buzz, the company turned to several celebrities in a minute-long commercial mixing Hollywood star power, intriguing cuts of the Audi A3 and the music of rock superstars Queen.
Everyone from athletes to musicians to actors lent their talent to the project. One of the most notable additions was Ricky Gervais, comedian and television producer responsible for shows like "The Office." The funny man's appearance book-ended the commercial, with the messaging encouraging viewers to "stay uncompromised."
Jaguar
This veteran of the luxury market recently embraced and celebrated its U.K. heritage by enlisting the help of several prominent English celebrities in its new campaign. According to MarketingWeek, jaguar's campaign, dubbed FeelXE, sees British superstars such as Idris Elba loaning their faces and voices to the company's cause. Post-2008 recession, Jaguar is looking to reestablish the wow factor driving a high-end luxury car can evoke, and pairing its sleek wheels with some of the most well-known individuals from the U.K. is certainly a move aimed at doing just that.
Avis
Of course, not all campaigns are designed around selling luxury cars. Some, like Avis' recent star-studded series, just want to give people what they need. The rental car company launched a handful of spots featuring celebrities such as fashion photographer Nigel Barker and beach volleyball player Gabriella Reece, GlobalNewswire stated in a press release. Rather than position expensive cars as solid buys, the celebs advocated Avis as a sensible rental option for business travelers in need of a car while on the road.
If you're looking to buy a high-quality used car, head to NJ State Auto Auction. There are hundreds of Carfax-certified cars on the lot, and the dedicated finance team can help create an affordable financing solution.
What Car Does Your Favorite Celebrity Drive?
We hold our celebrities in such high regard that sometimes we can forget that they're people just like we are. And just like us, sometimes they need to get from point A to point B. Some our favorite and most visible celebrities have made headlines with flashy wheels and custom rides. While maybe not strictly practical, many of the cars some of the biggest entertainment personalities drive are attractions in their own right. Take a look into some of these celebrity driveways and peek through the windows of the cars of the stars.
Justin Bieber
The Canadian golden-boy-turned-bad-boy certainly isn't afraid to show off when it comes to his choice in autos. In fact, the crooner is a textbook example of the stereotype of celebrity fiscal irresponsibility of the four-wheeled variety. According to Celebrity Cars Blog, the pop star isn't content to just own one super stylish ride – he has a veritable fleet of fancy cars to fit any occasion. The guiding theme seems to be matte black, as he sports a Cadillac CTS-V, a Range Rover and even a Smart Car decked out in the finish.
Kanye West
The notoriously cocky musician and producer isn't one for subtlety, and this is reflected in his choice of autos as well. When it comes to wheels, it's nothing but the best of the best for Mr. West, who boasts a collection consisting of several Mercedes-Benz models ranging from the SLR Stirling Moss convertible to the massively imposing G63 SUV. Celebrity Cars Blog pointed out that Kanye even owns a Lamborghini Aventador, further distinguishing himself from the crowd by driving one of the industry's flashiest roadsters.
Paris Hilton
The queen of hotel royalty takes her appointment very seriously, even when it comes to her choice in cars. You may have heard that it's appropriate to match your shoes and purse to your outfit, but Ms. Hilton felt the need to take things a step further and add her auto to the mix as well. As Huffington Post reported, the notoriously pink-loving public figure turned heads by driving around in a pink dress, pink shoes and a pink Bentley to match. It raises the question if she has cars to match the rest of her outfits as well.
When you're shopping for a pre-owned car, head to NJ State Auto Auction. You'll find hundreds of Carfax-certified cars on the lot, and the in-house finance team can help you find a financing option that's right for you.
What Are Some Of Your Favorite Classic American Cars?
Summer is the perfect season for hot dogs, apple pie, baseball and other icons of Americana. One fixture that's equally as iconic in the U.S. identity is the classic car. From the muscle cars and roadsters every teen boy dreams about to the vintage luxury cars of the upper classes, the U.S. has a long and colorful history with a wide variety of handsome autos. This summer, take some time to share in the national appreciation of the country's coolest cars, starting with some of these automotive icons.
Ford Mustang
If ever there was a car that embodied the spirit of the classic American roadster, it would be Ford's famous Mustang. Revving its way into the hearts of auto enthusiasts since 1964, this classic "pony car" is practically synonymous with the open road. Available as either a hard-top or convertible, the four-seat fireball is the gold standard for sexy sports car, and continues to claim its place even to this day. The 'Stang has seen constant production since its introduction in 1964, according to AskMen, and its popularity has remained red-hot ever since, indicating that this classic car is far from slowing down.
Chevrolet Corvette
Not content to let Ford monopolize the U.S. roadster market, Chevrolet's Corvette is classic sports car royalty in its own right. Tearing up U.S. roadways since 1953, the Corvette is one of the oldest and longest-running sports cars boasted by the nation. In fact, the 'Vette is considered such an integral part of U.S. culture that in 2008, a special edition collectible silver dollar was minted featuring the classic car. Designed to celebrate the 100th anniversary of General Motors, the Corvette coin depicts the car in bright yellow, complete with pop-up headlights that light up, Jalopnik reported.
Jeep Wrangler
Americans like to pride themselves on their rugged, indomitable spirit and history of conquering frontiers, and the Jeep Wrangler embodies this spirit in car form. Descended from the World War II General Purpose – G.P., or "Jeep" – vehicles, the Wrangler is now practically synonymous with outdoor excursions and adventures. While perhaps not the most practical car around, if you're looking for a symbol of the U.S. identity, you'd be hard-pressed to find a better car.
When shopping for a used car, head to NJ State Auto Auction. You'll find hundreds of Carfax-certified vehicles on the lot, and the in-house finance team is on hand to help you make your purchase affordable.