Tag Archives: Car

New 2021 Porsche 992 GTS

If there is a car model gap to be filled, rest assured that every car manufacturer will ensure it’s filled. Presenting the latest Porsche 911 GTS that has landed to fill that crucial gap between the Carrera S and the full-beans GT3. A car which possibly could be the only new 911 that you could ever need.

Porsche tell us that the new 992 GTS generation is “inspired by the 904 GTS race car of the 1960s, with the letters GTS identify Porsche models that offer a carefully curated combination of performance, style and emotion.” Either way this modern 911 GTS has been a very popular and very successful model in the 911 range. Rightly so, as it hits that sweet spot popular model in the 911 range since it was first introduced twelve years ago, with the highest retained values of any 911 Carrera model.

The GTS sits between the Carrera S and the GT3 in its specification, power and potential, but this time it has a few more tricks borrowed from the 911 Turbo to add to its arsenal. Powered by the trusty 3.0-litre flat-six turbo it produces more power than the 992 Carrera S and more than the previous GTS. There’s 473bhp on offer with 420lb ft of torque on tap, all a moderate increase from its predecessor.

Available with all the options in either rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive sporting the choice of the super slick 8 speed PDK automatic gearbox and the all-important 7 speed manual, which we will come back to later. PDK is the unpronounceable ‘Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe’ which translates as Porsche dual-clutch gearbox, if you were wondering. Spec GTS with Carrera 4 All-wheel drive and using launch control with the PDK box 0-62mph will be despatched in just a mere 3.3 seconds. So really all the pace you could ever need.

Visually, there are a few clues to the GTS being the GTS. Namely, the ‘GTS’ badge and its black satin 20in front alloys and 21in rear alloys, black highlights across the body, with the exhaust tip and the spoiler lip painted black, as are the dynamic LED headlights and model-unique GTS tail-lights. All GTS cars have the fitment of the ‘Sport Design’ pack as standard.

As for a helping hand from the 911 Turbo since GT3 technology is off-limits, the suspension is 911 Turbo ‘derived’ modified for this GTS with adaptive dampers aka PASM, Porsche Active Suspension Management. The Coupe and Cabriolet GTS models get a 10mm lower Sport chassis which translates into stiffer springs, adapted shocks, anti-roll bars and a new PASM control, but the Targa GTS only gets PASM.

There are a few more Turbo tricks with rear-axle helper springs proudly explained by Porsche as “a development shared with the Turbo models”, which means it keeps the main springs under tension in all conditions, which is probably not a bad ideal when you’re knocking on the door of being a 500hp sport car. Not forgetting the legendary Porsche brakes which have also been pinched from the 911 Turbo, which are thankfully massive 408mm front and 380mm rears discs. Porsche also assures us the noise this GTS makes will be a special one, cue the standard sports exhaust with some clever upgrades.

On the inside and keeping the sporting GTS theme, there’s a bit less interior insulation and for those feeling like a GT3 driver there is the option of carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) bucket seats which do look gorgeous. Along with the option of thinner window glass and a lightweight battery save up to 25kg as part of the optional Lightweight Package, which also happens to deletes the rear seats and adds rear-axle steering. Otherwise, the interior GTS is marked out by extensive use of Porsche’s Race-Tex upholstery, which is their version of Alcantara fabric with some tasty carbon fibre interior trim inserts.

For those you can’t get a new GT3 for love or money this is car to get, which is why I should strongly recommend the new generation of ‘light operation’ Manual gearbox. I’m told that over a Carrera S the excellent manual has a “particularly short lever throw” which outlines it’s GT credentials and is the must have specification for owners. Truth be told most owners will opt for the PDK which is shame as I’ve driven the manual and with all of its clever technology assistance this is unlike any old style manual gearbox.

The 911 GTS is on sale now, priced from £108,920 as the Coupé, £118,720 as the Cabriolet and £124,300 as the Targa, available now but that manual is worth a closer look.

This article was provided by our friends at www.911uk.com – the Porsche enthusiast club.

Car Of The Day…. Nissan Skyline Gt-R R33

The car of the day is the fantastic Nissan Skyline Gt-R.

The Nissan Skyline GT-R is a sports car based on the Nissan Skyline range. The first cars named “Skyline GT-R” were produced between 1969 and 1972 and were successful in Japanese touring car racing events. This model was followed by a brief production run of second-generation cars.

This wonderful sports car is insured and has plenty benefits that we can offer at AIB. The policy has legal expenses cover, choice of repairer, agreed value and salvage retention. We can offer additional benefits such as replacement vehicle and excess protection making sure your gorgeous classics are fully covered and there is no need to worry!

Call our friendly and knowledgeable car team on 02380 268351 for a bespoke quotation and see what benefits we can offer you today!

Thank you to Mr N for sharing your lovely photos with us.

Car of the Week…MGB GT

The car of the week is this gorgeous MGB GT.

The original concept of the two seater open sports MGB was considered ahead of its time in 1962 and still had not dated after production ceased in 1980 when the last MGB rolled off the Abingdon assembly line. Over half a million examples of the car in its various guises were produced, making it the best selling MG of all time.

Mr A has kept this beautiful example in pristine condition. If you have an MG or any other classic car that needs caring for think no further than AIB insurance. We can offer agreed value, salvage retention and choice of repairer.

Call our specialist classic car team on 02380 268351 for your bespoke quotation. Do not forget to ask about our optional extras which provide extra security.

Thank you Mr A for sharing your beautiful MG B GT!

The Car of The Day….. Lotus Elan +2

The car of the day today is the wonderful Lotus Elan + 2.

Mr B has a fantastic policy with agreed value, choice of repairer and also salvage retention through ourselves here at AIB.

The Elan +2 was introduced in 1967 with a longer wheelbase and 2 rear seats. 5,200 Elan +2were made. The Elan +2 ceased production in 1975. Because of its successful design and rigorous attention to cost control on the body, chassis, engine and transmission, the Elan went on to become Lotus’ first commercial success, reviving a company stretched thin by the more exotic and expensive to build Lotus Elite enabling funding of the Lotus success in racing over the next ten years.

Thank you for sending these lovely photos Mr B!

We specialise in classic car insurance so remember to call us on 02380 268351 for all your classic car needs.

Car of the Week! Nissan GT-R

Today’s car of the week is this beautiful example of a 1991Nissan GT-R we recently insured.

This hand built vehicle was manufactured in Japan and imported as a grey import and at the time, was one of the fastest accelerating production four-seaters.

Mr D was kind enough to take a policy with us which enjoyed the benefits of both agreed value and salvage retention. Optional classic car breakdown was available at £32.55

Thanks for sharing Mr D. If you would like to share your car insured with us please call the office on 02380 268351 – we love checking out great cars!

Lotus launches new Certificate of Provenance by honouring Colin Chapman’s last car – newly acquired by Lotus

Lotus is launching a new Certificate of Provenance programme, revealing the first recipient as a stunning and celebrated Turbo Esprit that was the final ‘company car’ of Lotus founder Colin Chapman.

Vehicle provenance documents and highly desirable Lotus collectables now available to Lotus owners worldwide
First recipient is a stunning 1981 Turbo Esprit, authenticated as Lotus founder Colin Chapman’s last ‘company car’
UK Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher also drove it, further increasing its provenance
Recently acquired by Lotus, the Esprit will be restored and join the company’s collection

The 1981 model, which was also driven by UK Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher during a visit to Norfolk, has recently been acquired by Lotus. Following a sympathetic restoration it will join the company’s collection.

The new Certificate of Provenance is designed to appeal to owners of Lotus cars from any era. They could buy one for themselves or receive it as a gift from friends or family. It is delivered in a distinctive ‘For The Drivers’ Lotus presentation box, which contains:

The Certificate of Provenance – printed on premium paper, this provides a summary of the car’s details including the VIN, paint colour and specification. The certificate also notes the date on which the car completed its production at the Hethel factory and was passed to the Lotus sales team.
The Build Specification Letter – drafted using detailed vehicle information from the Lotus archive*, this document provides more in-depth information about the car, including its engine, transmission, standard features and optional extras.
A personalised letter to the customer signed by Phil Popham, CEO, Lotus Cars, thanking them for their purchase and updating them on the transformation which is taking place at Lotus.

The three documents are presented in a simple black envelope placed inside the presentation box. Beneath it is a selection of Lotus collectables, including an aluminium plaque engraved with the owner’s name and information from the Certificate of Provenance; a leather Lotus keyring; a carbon fibre bookmark featuring the brand’s nine most significant motorsport laurels; a presentation tin of four badges; and a Lotus ink pen.

The Certificate of Provenance is available worldwide through Lotus retailers. In the UK it costs £170 + postage. Prices in other markets may vary.

The 1981 Lotus Turbo Esprit has the UK registration plate UVF 464X and was first registered to Lotus on 1 August of that year. Its own Lotus Certificate of Provenance reveals it was allocated to company founder Colin Chapman for his exclusive use. Following Chapman’s death in December 1982, it was sold by Lotus in July 1983 and has been in private hands ever since, covering just 11,000 miles and regularly maintained.

Finished in metallic Silver Diamond paint with ‘Turbo Esprit’ decals, the factory-fitted optional extras include a full red leather interior, air-conditioning and a Panasonic audio system integrated into the headliner.

However, the specification is completely unique as it has several features added at the request of Chapman to improve his own driving comfort and enjoyment. These include power steering – it was the first Esprit ever to have this technology – plus modified and lowered suspension, modified brakes and BBS Mahle lattice alloy wheels.

On 5 August 1981 the car was used by Chapman to promote the latest Lotus range to the then UK Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher, when she toured Norfolk. After landing at Norwich Airport and talking to Chapman, she sat behind the wheel and drove it round the site’s private roads. Local media reported that she had said: “I was tempted to drive away in it.”

Phil Popham, CEO, Lotus Cars, commented: “What better way to launch our Certificate of Provenance than by showing how it has validated the celebrated history of an iconic and unique Turbo Esprit. The Lotus archive is a fully catalogued database of information and can provide a wealth of insightful facts on any Lotus car from any era. It’s the perfect gift for a Lotus owner anywhere in the world.”

Speaking about the unique Turbo Esprit, he added: “This is an iconic and unique car from the Lotus back catalogue, personalised by our founder Colin Chapman and with a truly fascinating provenance. It deserves its place in our collection and we’re looking forward to showing it off.”

Azur Group Joins Our Panel Of Insurers

We are pleased to announce that we have added the Azur Group to our closely vetted panel of insurers. The company specialises in providing high net worth clients with home and motor insurance through an arrangement with AIG that used to be shirt sponsors of Manchester United FC.

Azur has a reputation for providing bespoke insurance products for the discerning client to ensure that their high value home, contents and personal belongings are covered in the event of the likes of a fire, theft or accidental damage and that their executive motor vehicle is insured for the same risks

Home Insurance

Azur’s home insurance provides numerous benefits including clients having peace of mind in knowing that their residential properties have comprehensive cover with contents being insured for up to an impressive 50% of the amount that the building is covered for. Their all risks cover is renowned for being one of the best in the insurance industry.

Any newly purchased items are covered immediately with a period of 90 days being allowed to add something to the home insurance policy. It is pleasing to read that wherever a client takes their contents around the world they will be covered. Another interesting benefit is that even if the cost of rebuilding or repairing a property is more than the amount insured it will still be covered. The cost of providing alternative accommodation is met for up to 3 years. With the ever-increasing threat of cyber attack such cover for up to £100,000 is provided.

Motor Insurance

Azur has a reputation for insuring the likes of luxury and high performance cars providing comprehensive cover. An interesting benefit is that if a vehicle is stolen or damaged beyond repair and is less than 3 years of age it will be replaced with a new one of the identical make and model. If a client or their spouse drives another car that they or a family member does not own that is not mentioned in the schedule of the policy he or she will be insured on a fully comprehensive basis.

For the duration of a claim for repair damage, the cost of providing the insured with a hire car of a similar value to the one that is being repaired will be met. A client can choose anyone to repair their vehicle with manufacturer’s original parts being used wherever possible. Car rental cover is provided for up to 90 days.

Our clients will be pleased to read that Azur are renowned for providing a quality service in all their departments from producing the tailor-made quotation, setting up the home or motor insurance policy and processing any claims.

Here at AIB Insurance, we look forward to working closely with Azur for the benefit of our high net worth clients wishing to arrange quality cover for their residential properties and/or motor vehicles.

Your Employment Status Is Important When Applying For Car Insurance

When you apply for a quote for car insurance, whether it is direct with the insurance company, through a broker like ourselves or via a price comparison website, you will be asked a number of questions to assess the risk you present to the insurer of making a future claim and to provide you with a quotation for the cover you require. These questions include things like your age, marital status, where you live, make and model of car, where the car will be parked overnight, how many miles a year you drive, what you will use the vehicle for, whether you have any driving convictions or claims and your employment status.

MoneySuperMarket.com has done some research into the impact employment status may have on how much you will be quoted for your motor insurance that makes for interesting reading so we thought we would share with you some of the results that is based upon data in January 2018. It just shows how important it is that you provide accurate information in this respect as far as how much you will be quoted for your cover.

If you are a housewife then the average premium was £563.04 per annum. However, if you mistakenly stated on the quotation request form that you were unemployed then you can expect to pay, on average, an extra £146.39 per annum. That is an increase of 26%.

If you are a student then the average premium was £1,327.87 per annum. However, if you stated by mistake that you were a mature student living at home then you can expect to pay, on average, an extra £92.95 per annum. That is an increase of 7%.

If you are retired then the average premium was £265.66 per annum. However, if you made an error and stated that you were unemployed then you can expect to pay, on average, an extra £98.29 per annum for your cover. That is an increase of 37%.

If you are a student then, as stated above, the average premium was £1,327.87 per annum. However, if you stated incorrectly that you were unemployed then you can expect to pay, on average, an extra £677.21 per annum. That is an extra 51% which we are sure you will agree is a huge difference.

As you can see, as stated earlier, it is vital that accurate information is provided when applying for a quotation for car insurance or indeed any form of insurance as deliberately providing false details has a number of potential implications including the insurance company refusing to pay out in the event of a claim.

If you require a quote, perhaps because your existing policy is shortly coming up for renewal or if you are a young motorist looking for cover to insure your first car, then why not get in touch with us here at AIB Insurance on 02380 268 351 and speak with an experienced member of our team who will discuss your requirements and obtain one or more competitive quotations for your perusal and consideration without any obligation. We look forward to hearing from you.

Car Insurance Premiums Reduce In Q2 2018

Motorists will be pleased to read that premiums for fully comprehensive car insurance have, on average, fallen in the second quarter of 2018 when compared to the same period last year.

According to the Confused.com Car Insurance Price Index that is produced on a quarterly basis the average amount paid for the above level of cover in Q2 of 2018 was £752 per annum. Twelve months ago, the premium was £847 per annum so there has been a drop of £95 with this equating to a fall of 11.2%. That is a significant reduction.

It is interesting to read in the above report that those motorists who merely renewed their car insurance with the same insurance company ended up paying, on average, an extra £49 per annum for their cover when looking at data covering the second quarter of this year. This just goes to show how important it is that motorists should shop around when he or she receives their renewal quotation from their existing insurer to try to get a better price elsewhere for the same level of cover.

As you are probably aware, it tends to be the young, inexperienced driver who pays more for their car insurance than others and that is not surprising. However, it is interesting that the above report reveals 17 year olds have, on average benefitted from quite a drop in the cost of insuring their cars when comparing Q2 of 2018 with Q2 of 2017. They have seen premiums fall by an average of £403 per annum to an average of £1,889 per annum. This is even lower than that being paid by 18 and 19 year olds with the former paying an average of £2,052 per annum and the later an average of £1,893 per annum. A reason for the drop could be due to an increase seen in the number of insurance companies offering telematics (black box) car insurance.

Those premiums are significantly higher than the average paid by older motorists for comprehensive cover: –

34 year old – £664 per annum

51 year old – £647 per annum

68 year old – £496 per annum

On a regional basis, Northern Ireland has seen the biggest fall in premiums with premiums dropping on average from £1,059 per annum to £894 per annum between both quarters. That is a fall of £165 per annum equating to 16%.

On a more local basis, motorists living in Inner London saw their premiums reduce by an average of £179 per annum. That may be good news for many but they are still paying more than an average of £1,000 per annum for their cover with this being the only place in the UK that this is happening.

We are sure motorists would agree that it would be lovely to see the cost of insuring their cars continue to fall.

If your cover is coming up for renewal then why not contact us here at AIB Insurance on 02380 268 351 and we will be pleased to discuss your requirements and obtain a free, competitive quotation from our extensive panel of insurers without any obligation.

High Percentage Of Tyre Treads Below Recommended Limit

As a motorist, you will hopefully be aware that the tyres on your car plus the spare wheel must have a tread depth of at least 1.6 mm to make sure that they are legal. However, the recommended minimum tread depth on a tyre is considerably more at 3 mm.

Research shows that the stopping distance increases significantly when comparing a car that only has a tyre tread depth of 1.6 mm than if the tyres had a tread depth of 3 mm.

According to a Road Safety Factsheet published in October 2017 by The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents. Back in 2016, there were 120 serious injuries and 8 deaths due to road traffic accidents believed to have resulted from either under-inflated, defective or illegal tyres.

Well, you may find it of interest to read that some research has been conducted on behalf of the price comparison website Confused.com relating to tyre tread depths between the 27^th March 2018 and the 29^th March 2018 and the information revealed will no doubt concern you.

The research was undertaken in 10 cities in the UK with 100 vehicles being spot checked in each city making a total of 1,000 vehicles. The cities in which this research was carried out were Birmingham, Brighton, Bristol, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Ipswich, Leeds, London, Manchester and Newcastle.

Of those vehicles inspected, 20.9%, over a fifth, were found to have a minimum of one tyre that had a tread depth of under 3 mm. Even more worrying was that 3% of vehicles checked were found to have at least one tyre with a tread depth of below 1.6 mm.

Edinburgh had the highest number of vehicles that had a minimum of one tyre with a tread depth of less than 3 mm – 27%. Manchester was in second place at 26%. Birmingham was in third place at 23%. Brighton and Newcastle were in joint fourth place at 21%. Bristol was in 6^th place on 20%. Ipswich was in 7^th place on 20%, Cardiff and Ipswich were in joint 8th spot on 19%. In 9^th place was Leeds on 17% and in 10^th spot was London on 16%.

In joint first place for having at least one tyre with a tread depth of less than 1.6 mm were Ipswich and Newcastle on 5%. In joint third place were Edinburg, Leeds, Manchester and Brighton with 4%. In joint seventh spot were Bristol and London on 3%. In ninth place was Cardiff on 2% and in tenth spot was Birmingham with 0%.

You may or may not be aware that there are severe penalties for being caught with a tyre that has a tread depth of below the legal limit of 1.6 mm. You could receive three penalty points on your driving license plus a fine of up to £2,500 for every illegal tyre. This in turn could lead to an increase in your car insurance premiums. So, you may wish to have the tread depth on all your tyres checked to make sure that they are satisfactory.