How Cars Have Changed Our Lives
Cars are the main mode of transportation for hundreds of millions of people worldwide. They allow us to travel within a city and across the country or continent. Without cars it would be very hard for most of us to get to work or visit family. They have also changed the way cities and towns look. People used to live close to their work but now they live farther away and commute to their jobs. Cars have probably had more impact on people than any other invention in history.
The first car was invented by a man named Karl Benz in 1844. He called it a Motorwagen because it had a small motor that drove it. It was not as fast or comfortable as the cars of today. The modern car has many parts that work together to make it go. They include the body, chassis, engine and other systems. There are many different types of cars and they come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some are designed for families while others are sports cars or luxury vehicles.
A car has to be made of strong materials that can withstand a crash and that are safe for passengers. They need to be able to carry a lot of weight. They also need to be able to stop quickly. A brake system uses friction pads that are pressed against the wheel or drum with help from hydraulics. This slows or stops the car. Most cars have suspension systems that support the weight of the car. They have springs between the axles of the wheels and they keep the tires from moving up and down too much.
Most cars run on gasoline. When they are driven, they release carbon dioxide, which is a greenhouse gas, into the air. If everyone in America drove just 10% less each year, it could greatly reduce greenhouse gases and other pollutants. Cars also cause traffic jams and take up a lot of parking space in urban areas.
When choosing a car, it is important to think about what you will be using it for and how much you can afford to spend on it each month. It is a good idea to crunch numbers with a lease versus buy calculator and shop around for financing. Once you know how much you can afford to pay each month, then you can start looking at the cars that fit your lifestyle. If you want a sporty car, look for one that offers lots of upgrades and options. If you are looking for a practical vehicle, consider sedans such as the new 11th generation Honda Civic that has four doors and a trunk. There are also a number of other sedans on the market including the Toyota Corolla and Nissan Sentra. Some of these cars have coupe versions as well for those who prefer two-door vehicles.