Car story - How to buy a car

Compact
Compact cars are called just that due to their relatively small dimensions. These cars are ideal for commuting within city limits, and have clear advantages in negotiating tight parking spots and city traffic. It can also be said that that due to small engines and lightweight, they are fuel-efficient. Usually cars in this category are comfortable for 4 passengers inclusive of the driver, though fitting 5 people is not really a problem. But do remember that legroom and elbowroom is not generous, and may probably not be the most comfortable choice for physically large people.

Convertibles
Most Convertibles are sports cars, meaning two seats, with good Power to weight ratio and superior handling. Convertibles are great when the weather's perfect. One gets both the options in a Convertible i.e. driving with the Soft top down & If required with the Soft top closed.

Luxury
Cars under the Luxury category are expensive, to buy as well as to maintain, and are a status symbol more than anything else. These are cars that come with an extremely high level of comfort and luxury features. These cars are a pleasure to drive over long distances because of their powerful engines and high levels of safety and comfort. Because of their larger dimensions both in the passenger area, the boot and the engine section, they may be a tad difficult to manoeuvre and park in the city. But since a majority of cars in this segment are chauffeur driven, you wouldn't have to worry about that.

Mid-Sized
Cars that fall under this category are supposed to be reasonably spacious, and high on comforts and safety features. They are suited for both intra-city and highway use, though due to their larger dimensions can sometimes be a handful in the city. Cars in this category usually come with ample headroom and legroom, and can comfortably seat 5 people inclusive of the driver. Normally the manufacturers, to reduce price, offers stripped down versions of the same model.

Multi-Purpose
Vehicles in this category are designed for heavy-duty tasks and to haul heavy luggage. These are ideally suited for commercial purposes, though they also serve as a cheap means of transport for large families. This is mainly due to the fact that most of these cars are powered by diesel engines, and come with space for up to 8 passengers.

Sports Utility Vehicle
Vehicles in this category are usually characterised by big diesel engines and high ground clearance. These are good for all sorts of rough and country roads, though in India few of these vehicles get off road to do what they were made to do. Mud-slinging! Customers in India buy these vehicles mainly because of their intimidating size and high driving position, the latter providing fabulous all-round visibility. These are vehicles for the young and the young at heart, who want their cars to be an extension of their personalities.

Station-Wagon
With loads of space, loads of comfort, and loads of useful accessories, cars that come under the estate/station wagon segment are ideal for your camping/out of city road trips. Known for their saloon like comforts and enormous luggage carrying capacity, these are right cars for those weekends when you feel like you want to get away.