It’s one thing to experience buyer’s remorse about a small purchase. You can just shake your head and move on. You aren’t out that much money, and sometimes you can even return the item for a full refund.
Not so with exotic cars. When you buy an exotic car, you’re committing a huge amount of money to something you won’t be able to take back. For one thing, there’s the high purchase price of the car, often in the six figure range. Plus, there’s climate-controlled exotic car storage, security devices, service, insurance, and a host of other related expenses.
So how can you make sure the exotic car you buy is the right vehicle for you? A test drive is a good place to start. The problem is that a test drive doesn’t let you live with the car for a few days, getting to know the ins and outs of the vehicle and whether it has a comfortable ride or seats that make your back hurt.
One good way to avoid owning an uncomfortable automobile is to rent exotic vehicles before you buy. Many prospective buyers are turning to exotic car rental as a research tool. If you do your homework, you won’t be disappointed. And this homework is a lot more fun that algebra.
“An exotic car is a major purchase,” says Tom Warren, general manager of a Dallas exotic car rental company. “You wouldn’t buy a house without getting a home inspection and checking out the neighborhood. To avoid disappointment, car buyers need to do the same with exotic vehicles.”
After you rent some exotic vehicles, you may learn that you don’t really want to commit yourself to any one model of car. You might love the flashy speed of a Lamborghini but still enjoy the elegant performance of a Bentley. You might rent an Audi R8 and decide that car is for you too.
If you find yourself in love with more than one vehicle, a good option is joining an exotic car sharing club. Exotic car clubs allow you to drive all your favorite vehicles without the worries of storage and security or the hassle of maintenance.
“If you’re a fan of more than one model, a car club is the perfect solution,” says Warren.
Even if you are nearly positive that you want a specific vehicle, it just makes good sense to drive your dream car before you plunk down the cash to buy it.
Kate Miller-Wilson is a freelance professional writer living in the Twin Cities. Visit her website or email her for information about her freelance writing services.
