I'd liked to know more about cars

[Zheng1337]

Hi, I'm 15 years old, in High School, and would like to know more about cars.

Basically, I'm starting to develop an interest in cars, and playing racing simulators such as GT5 Prologue. I was just wondering if there were any sites that basically goes in-depth about cars, and states what each car part does. I know some basic stuff, such as the HP, torque, but that's really about it. Essentially, I'd like to know all about cars.

Also, seeing as I play racing simulators, I was also wondering if they're are any sites that teach circuit racing techniques. I've heard of heel-to-toe downshifting, but that's about it.

Thanks in advance for any help.

 

[CyborgGT]

How cars work: In the "what's inside: auto" section about half-way down the page, click 'Auto Basics'. From there, the 'How Automobiles/Cars Work' links will help you out with the engine and all that, and the 'Glossary' and 'Understanding Auto Parts' sections also have some good information.

This video goes into several manual-trans techniques:

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If you go to the video's page, he has links in the description of other videos (by someone else, in an M5) demonstrating other advanced techniques.

 

[homeforsummer]

Welcome to the newbie, and you're off to a good start by wanting to learn more, especially before you learn to drive.

The links posted above are great and pretty much what I would have offered, so instead if you're wanting to know more about cars I'd suggest reading as many magazines as you can, especially those that have regular technical and driving features. I'm 23 and I've been reading car magazines since I was ten, and you'll be amazed what a mix of useless and useful information you pick up if you spend all your free time reading about cars!

 

[Joey D]

Honestly Wikipedia is a great source for learn random information about models, just pick your favourite manufacturer and start reading. I've learned a lot of cars I never knew existed and it's just cool stuff to know.

 

[Diego440]

sheesh... the importance of having a decent script. Half of the video is the guy going "umm... like, the engine. ummm... the speed. umm... like, ummm downshift to ummm a lower gear, higher, no lower... ummm"

 

[YSSMAN]

I think the main thing to remember is to just take your time, be patient, and just read, read, read, read, read! You learn so much more by reading, but that being said, you've also gotta take the time to apply it as well. It doesn't count for much if you can't actually do it yourself...