Over the years both men and women have been said to have experienced or are currently experiencing a “midlife crisis”.

It seems to suddenly dawn on them that their days of nightclubs and mini skirts have finally come to a close. A number of things could spark the reinvention, maybe a divorce or change in career which then leads to a passion for a new lease of life. Purchasing a sports car can often be the starting point.

Central Contracts are about to showcase the top ten cars that scream the words ‘midlife crisis’.

Don’t worry you’re not on your own.

The convertible

Be it a Porsche or Mercedes a convertible oozes confidence and a carefree attitude. Many people try to turn back the clock by leaning towards a shiny drop top and who wouldn’t? Cruising along with the wind in your hair (or not!) can make you feel ten years younger. You may think you look like Ferris Bueller, but this couldn’t be further from the truth!  Think twice before parting with your cash for a convertible if you want to keep a firm hold on your secret.

The Saab 900

Released in 1979 it slowly became a classic amongst young hip types, making it an obvious choice for those desperately attempting to regain their teenage years.  Whether it’s the Human League ‘Don’t you want me’ blasting out or the popular Boston’s ‘More than a feeling’ playing, whichever way you view this car it’s the underdog of the midlife crisis car scene. The music is optional. Many articles have raved about the Saab 900, The Independent compares it to the cool factor of MTV. With this said it isn’t a surprise that 30-40 somethings think that this is the perfect choice when it comes to a new motor.

Most likely to be heard:-

Soft Cell ’Tainted Love’ – An 80’s classic, so the song is the obvious choice for the New Romantics who want to rekindle the eyeliner days, in secret, in their car…

The Aston Martin DB5

Sadly driving this car will not magically transform you into Roger Moore or James Bond. If you are looking for a car to actually highlight your age then this is The One. The DB5 isn’t a midlife crisis, so much as a cry for help, confirming that you are actually as old as the car that you have purchased at an extortionate price. With that said any model Aston Martin has a slightly mysterious quality.

Most likely to be heard:-

The Smiths ‘Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now’ or Bon Jovi – ‘Shot Through The Heart’ , confirming  the Aston drivers’ split personality, one calm and sophisticated, the second a total speed freak, power ballads and driving gloves at the ready.  Why not throw in a smoking jacket for good measure! Go mad!

The Mazda MX5

Not only affordable but also a head turner. No matter what stretch of road you’re driving down there’s sure to be one nearby and if it’s not raining the roof will probably be down. A brand new model will set you back something in the region of £13,000-£22,500 making it affordable when compared to the price of other suitable poser mobiles. The beauty of this vehicle is that both women and men are keen to get behind the wheel and take the fast lane. Although this car is on our list, it is slightly more acceptable due to the large numbers purchased, allowing it to go undetected in built up areas.

Most likely to be heard:-

Michael Jackson’s ‘Billie Jean’ – Because it’s still ok to like Michael Jackson’s music, just as it’s still cool to drive the MX5.

The Porsche Boxster

The coveted Porsche Boxster is in seventh place. First released in 1996 and marketed as a roadster since the production of the 550 Spyder. With two seats and sleek styling this is an ideal choice for those looking to say they drive a Porsche, without the 911’s price tag. From Elle Woods in ‘Legally Blonde’ to ‘Tomorrow Never Dies’, the Porsche Boxster has been driven by some of the most famous names in the industry both male and female; just don’t think that you will turn into 007 overnight.

Most likely to be heard:-

Beastie Boys ‘Fight For Your Right’  – Not for the faint hearted just like the Porsche Boxster.

Nissan 350Z

A car slightly higher up the list, that will raise an eyebrow or two is the Nissan 350Z, a compact two seater sports car that was produced from 2003 to 2009. The smooth body shape and youth defying appearance of this may be the reason that it’s so popular amongst the midlifers. If you are looking for a midrange model then purchasing one made in 2005 can set you back around £10,000, cheaper than hiring a personal trainer and slightly more than a facelift. When weighing up your options this is definitely a car that should be considered, if you wish to save the pounds whilst getting that much deserved treat.

Most likely to be heard:-

The Darkness ‘I Believe In A Thing Called Love’ – The Nissan 350Z for people who are young at heart, the leggings aren’t a necessity.

The Jaguar XKR Convertible

The ideal choice for those wanting a turbo charged thrill. The space available  seems much larger than that of a Porsche or a Mazda, however if you wish to buy one and make it sound like a good investment there are back seats that surprisingly no one can actually fit in, making it a child free zone. Just you and the road! An obvious choice for the teenager inside pushing its way out.

Most likely to be heard:-

Billy Idol’s  ’White Wedding’ –You’ve gone past the point of no return so why not play Billy Idol at the same time. You could even buy a denim jacket and get a George Micheal earring.

The Chevrolet Corvette

Higher up the list because it has a mean meaty look which may even ignite a passion that you never even knew you had for Raybans and leather jackets. This car comes in a number of colours. Red is probably the most popular as it highlights the Corvette’s gorgeous body. Red is also the colour of love so watch that you don’t fall in love too fast, the Corvette could break your heart with its 8-cylinder engine. Drive into a midlife crisis openly with this beauty.

Most likely to be heard:-

Prince’s  ’Little Red Corvette’ – If Prince can sing about it then surely it’s a sensible purchase…he did however change his own name to a symbol!

The next two cars are duelling for first place but don’t quite cut it so in no particular order.

Ferrari 360 Spider

Every man or woman has imagined having one at some point and dreaming about how damn cool they would look either driving one or sitting in the passenger seat. If you want to stick out like a sore thumb then go for it. Red, black, yellow, whichever you pick it will set you back an arm and a leg and either improve your street-cred or remove it completely just as quickly. If you want to dance with chance then empty your piggy bank and purchase one, just don’t be offended when you’re mistaken for ‘The Hoff’.

Most likely to be heard:-

Whitesnake  ’Here I Go Again’ – Turn heads, break hearts and your sensible reputation.

The Lamborghini Murcielago

A thing of beauty but only if you’re Kanye West or another highly successful rap artist. Deciding to purchase one of these cars will cause a commotion no matter what your age, just remember it doesn’t give you the street-cred which will allow you to strut around in leopard print and call your children’s friends ‘dude’. You have been warned!

Most likley to be heard:-

Motley Crue’s ‘Girls, Girls, Girls’ – You may find a horde of both men and women swooning over you, but it’s probably just the car.

Without doubt the most ostentatious and obvious midlife crisis car to purchase is…

The Porsche 911 Turbo

With an engine loud enough to deafen whole villages and prove that you still have what it takes to wear sunglasses indoors.  To take one of these home you will need to part with at least £40,000.  New models are usually £90,000 upwards.To save a few extra pounds you could opt for an older model at a much friendlier price. Go that extra step and get a convertible - be brave and be proud that even though you are having a mid-life crisis you are old enough to get insured on this vehicle. The Porsche 911 does offer two back seats, however passengers are optional. You’ll probably just put your golf clubs or handbag in there . Eat your heart out Tom Cruise the 911 is coming!

Most likely to be heard:-

Meatloaf’s ’Bat out of Hell’ – Own up to the fact that you’re in full swing of your midlife crisis. Take to the road, wear your sunglasses even when it’s raining and sing this power ballad. Drive loud and proud. (Unless your children need picking up and don’t want to be an embarrassment).

There are a multitude of reasons why you should lease a car which you may not even know about.

One of the most appealing points of leasing a vehicle either it be for commercial or personal use is the low initial payment which is made at the start of your contract. Usually you will be expected to pay 3 monthly payments upfront. Depending on the vehicle which you want to lease, this is much more manageable than taking out a loan for a car which has a high interest rate or purchasing a car in full. Result!

Another reason to lease a vehicle is that you have control over how long you would like the leasing contract to last and be able to choose the amount of mileage allowance you will have for each year.

A number of contracts also offer the car tax to be paid for the duration of your contract or for the first year. Another cost which you can strike off your expense list!

Once you have the car and have made the initial payments you will then have to pay a fixed monthly payment which you agreed to when signing the contract. These payments will vary from each vehicle however you will always know when the payment is due and how much it will cost each month.

No need to worry about car depreciation as you will be paying a fixed amount each month and simply return the car at the end of the contract or you will have the choice to purchase the car should you wish to.

If you own a business and are looking to enhance your professional image, leasing a fleet of vehicles to match your look has many benefits. Not only will you be able to lease a fleet at a competitive price but you will also be eligible to take advantage of the taxation benefits. If you are interested in leasing for your business then ask a member of the sales team who will easily be able to advise you and soon enough you will understand the benefits.

The last reason why you should consider car leasing is that at a small extra cost you will also be able to have your car maintained depending on which lease plan you have. This is a no brainier especially for companies looking to lease a fleet as repair can come at a high price. Which is why the small maintenance fee should be considered.

Once the contract is ending you will then have the choice to lease a new vehicle. What’s not to love about having a new vehicle every 2 to 4 years? If you already lease a vehicle here are a few things which you can do in order to keep your car in great shape:

• Always make sure that you check the tyre pressure. This will keep the tyres in good condition and hopefully make them last longer. Losing tyre pressure will also reduce the mpg you will achieve.
• Keep your car clean is something which is usually obvious however if you keep it looking brand new inside and out at the end of your contract it will be examined for wear and tear if you keep it looking pristine there will be no need to worry about the final checks before the contract is over.
• Making time to schedule services is essential to show that you have been taking care of your vehicle. Keeping an up to date service log will also ensure that you have stuck to the terms and conditions of the contract.
• A small secret tip to ensure that you stick to your agreed mileage is to keep a running total each week of how many miles you are travelling to keep on track.
• Finally have fun leasing remember that you are getting the car much sooner than if you were to purchase a brand new one without the worry of ordering the car and waiting for weeks for it arrive or the astronomical cost!

Happy leasing!

This could be where Ford comes into it’s own with the new 1.0 litre EcoBoost petrol engine.

Whilst the radical new engine is the size of an A4 piece of paper, don’t be fooled as this engine seems to have a bite much bigger than its bark.

Ford claims that the new engine will offer the same performance as the previous 1.6 litre engine, but can this really shift a Focus around the road at the same velocity? The engine has 3 cylinders which offer up to 56.5 mpg and emitting 114g/km of CO2.

The release of this new engine is to show drivers that it is possible to provide a 1.0 litre engine which offers punch without consuming large amounts of petrol or emitting excessive amounts of CO2. Reduced CO2 emissions are highly sought after as customers want to be seen as being green. This should make it even easier to change to this innovative vehicle as it offers performance and an eco- friendly approach which works!

Many other manufacturers have produced cars with l.0 litre engines such as Toyota and also Citroen, although none have been able supply the same amount of power which the new 1.0 litre EcoBoost Focus has. You should strongly consider testing it for yourself as you may be pleasantly surprised with what it can offer.

From: carbuzz.co.uk – The UK car review aggregator

However if you already own a vehicle getting it ready to sell can be difficult.

Before even listing your vehicle on a website or in a magazine make sure that it is squeaky clean, inside and out. Wash, wax and hoover your car thoroughly before taking any photographs. You should even clean the tires and the wheels to make sure that it looks in tip top condition.

Next in line on the list of things to do is to set a competitive price for your car. Do your research! Look at cars which are the same make, model and age as your vehicle with near enough the same mileage to gage the price which you should advertise at. Make a slight amendment as buyers will want to offer less and will give you more room for negotiating. You should even consider inserting OBO (or best offer) after the price.

Advertising on a specialist used car site can also increase your changes of a sale. If you own a classic car then you will see that there are a number of specialist sites which you can choose from and may even gain a higher price for you car should you advertise it there.

A final thing to remember is to gather all of your records,  such as the log book and any service information. If you have had an MOT carried out or a road tax renewal, you should also include this in your advertisement as it is an added bonus for many potential customers.

If you make a mental note of these tips then you may find yourself behind the wheel of your new car much quicker than you had imaged due to the quick sale of your old car!

If you have recently acquired your driving licence it can be difficult to find a car which ticks all of the appropriate boxes and has affordable car insurance.

Don’t worry there is light at the end of the tunnel as here are a list of the cheapest 4 cars to insure which are much more stylish than you may have first thought!

A sensible choice for young drivers everywhere is the ever popular Ford Fiesta. When looking for a combination of cheaper car insurance and reliability, the Ford Fiesta should not be over looked. Not only is this car the cheapest to insure, you can also purchase a second hand model for a reasonable price. The Ford Fiesta usually falls into the lowest insurance band unless you purchase a higher speck model which can bump it up the insurance ladder.

The second cheapest car for young drivers to insure is the Vauxhall Corsa which again, lower specks fall into the lowest insurance category. This is another incredibly popular car for new drivers as the revised model is exceptionally well designed. Everyone wants to own this car from boy racers and fashion fanatics to families. Low fuel consumption is an added bonus for this vehicle.

An old favourite for excitable young drivers around the country is the Peugeot 207. You may be happy to know that the car falls into the group 2 insurance category. Choosing a vehicle will a smaller engine will also ensure that you gain the cheapest insurance quote.

The most expensive of the bunch is the Fiat Punto Evo which is situated in the third insurance category. This vehicle makes the most of its sleek design and will entice young drivers who are looking for that extra bit of street credibility. Although this trendy vehicle offers style, the running costs can be that little bit extra to run unlike the  Ford Fiesta or the Vauxhall Corsa.

Many people believe that driving at incredibly low speeds will in fact reduce fuel consumption; however there are many alternatives to life in the slow lane which can also help you to save fuel.

Central Contracts have put together 5 simple tips to help you to improve your fuel consumption.

1: Ensure that your tires are pumped up! Having deflated tires not only slows your vehicle down but also increases the amount of fuel which your vehicle consumes. Pumping up your tires can also improve your fuel economy whilst saving you the expense of purchasing new tires too often.

2. Cleaning your air filter can help you to save on fuel, as clogged air filters restrict air flow to the engine. You can easily replace or clean them yourself as long as you are equipped with patience!

3. Try driving in a higher gear as it will ensure that your vehicle runs the most efficiently. Over revving your car will easily drain your precious fuel so make sure that you change gear before hitting 2,500 rpm.

4. Avoiding strong acceleration seems obvious and sometimes cannot be helped however if you anticipate the traffic ahead of you then you will be able to avoid over revving 9/10.

5. Drive at a moderate speed: however this does not always mean at a snail pace. Make progress when driving by keeping up with the traffic. Keeping a constant speed is also advised as your vehicle will run much smoother. Although this is not always possible due to safety cameras, making sure that you follow this rule when possible will help you to reap the extra mile rewards.

These tips are not guaranteed to work however,why not test them out to  see how much longer your fuel lasts!

From low sun to cyclists, spring can present a range of issues for motorists.

Following all the scares that come with winter driving, many motorists are welcoming the first signs of spring and the pleasant weather but be warned! Spring presents its own problems for road users!

Although you don’t have to worry about icy roads and dark mornings, the beginning of spring is still a dangerous time to be driving, cycling or operating a vehicle. Here are our top tips to help you drive as safely as possible during the spring months.

In spring low sun can be a major issue when driving to or from work and because of its low position in the sky, your visor usually isn’t much good. If this is the case it’s a good idea to slow your speed right down – this way you’ll have more chance to react if you suddenly spot an animal or cyclist in the road.

It’s also a good idea to ensure your windscreen is as clean as possible both on the inside and on the outside. Make sure you clean it regularly with a non-greasy car shampoo which won’t leave smears and marks.

Because of the position and strength of the sun, it’s also wise to try to reduce glare by wearing tinted glasses or sunglasses while driving. Although it can be tempting to leave your sunglasses on throughout your whole journey, it’s important to remove them when the sun goes in or when it starts to get dark.

Lastly following the challenging winter months, it’s a good idea to give your car some TLC in the form of maintenance checks. Give your car a good wash, check all your levels ie. oil and washer fluid, and check your pressure to ensure your car is in a suitable condition for all spring driving.

It’s worth taking the time out to look after its interior and exterior to stabilise the long term value of your vehicle.

The first car you buy is usually not the vehicle you’ll keep for the rest of your life. New careers, jobs and children will have an impact on the type of car you opt for throughout your motoring years. And sooner or later you’ll be looking to sell off your motor and replace it with another.

Extending the life of your vehicle is vital if you want to be able to use it for as long as possible and sell it on for a fair price when the time comes to take it to market.

Here are a few simple ways to make sure that your car keeps its initial character, speed and capabilities for the years to come:

1.Driving slowly and accelerating gently is a simple way to boost the longevity of your car’s engine. It is also far safer for you the driver and any of the passengers you’ve brought along for the ride.

2.Reducing the load on your car can improve driveability and will put less of a strain on the internal system. Avoid using trailers or filling the boot with unessential items that will weigh your vehicle down.

3.Try to steer clear of potholes and avoid hitting the kerb with your tyres to prevent exterior damage that looks unsightly.

4.Park your car in the shade so that UV light does not cause your car seats to fade. You might want to invest in a car shade too.

5.Ensure that you put floor mats downs to prevent ruining the interior carpet. Remember these are pretty cheap to replace so you can always throw them out and buy new ones if you are ready to sell your vehicle.