This weeks car of the week is the incredible Ferrari 360 Modena built in 2000.
The Ferrari Modena is a two seater coupe powered by a 3.6L V8 mid-engine that puts out 400 hp at 8,500 rpm. It can reach a top speed of 183mph and we think it’s simply gorgeous!
The insurance that Mr O arranged with Murray in our office included agreed value and salvage retention. Murray was able to offer fantastic discounts as the client was happy to limit the mileage and keep the vehicle in secure parking. In addition, the fact that the client had owned the vehicle for some time made Murray’s job easier to find cracking cover at a sensible price.
Thanks for sharing Mr O!!
If you have a classic Ferrari and need insurance please call Murray and the team on 02380 268351
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!
Today’s car of the week is this stunning McLaren 570 Spider that Murray in our office arranged cover for recently.
The 570S is the only car in its segment that comes with an entirely carbon fiber chassis, which weighs only 165lbs and the 570s was the first McLaren to come with a vanity mirror.
Murray arranged a policy that included UK breakdown including Home Assist, Legal Expenses, Enhanced Courtesy Car cover and Class one business use.
Thank you Mr P for allowing us to share the photographs of your beautiful car!
If you own a McLaren or a similar performance vehicle and need quality motor insurance please call Murray and the team on 02380 26831.
After a very strange, uncertain few months in a quieter world in lockdown, we are now seeing a slow return to normality. One thing that has remained certain however, is the need to keep your vehicle taxed, insured and properly maintained.
If you have been driving less and it looks like your vehicle use is still going to be much reduced, we have come up with a few tips and guidance points to help you navigate your way through a post-lockdown gear shift.
WHAT CHANGES SHOULD I FLAG UP WITH MY INSURANCE?
THE DAILY COMMUTE
Yes, you may be enduring or indeed loving, working from home at the moment. Trying to juggle home schooling or conducting business meetings over video calls (wearing business attire from the waist up of course) might mean your weekly commute has shrunk. Whilst saying a temporary goodbye to traffic jams and the daily grind is welcome, if your insurance covers SDPC (social, domestic, pleasure and commuting) you may want to call us if your vehicle use is going to change.
VEHICLE PARKING
Let us know if you are going to be keeping your vehicle somewhere different to that specified on your policy.
ANNUAL MILEAGE
Again, let us know if your anticipated mileage for the year is going to be much lower.
TO SORN OR NOT TO SORN, THAT… IS THE QUESTION…
If the pandemic means you’re not going to drive your car at all, you might want to consider taking it off the road altogether. A SORN is a Statutory Off Road Notification. Once a car has been declared as SORN, it must not be driven or even parked on a public road. You will need to keep your car on your driveway, in a garage or on private land. Otherwise, if you intend to drive your car at any time, even if it’s just to the local shop to get those all essential home working items (basically, tea/coffee/biscuits and lots of it), then usual rules apply: pay your vehicles tax, either through the Government portal – you will need the reference number from your vehicle tax reminder form (V11), or the vehicle code from your V5C or green ‘new keeper’ slip.Or pay at your local Post office.
BREAKDOWNS
AIB offer 3 levels of breakdown cover, To speak to one of our team you can call us on 02380 268351 for a competitive, tailored quote.
Both the AA and RAC have made it clear they are fully operational. By strictly following government and public health advice they have adapted their ways of working, including social distancing and the use of PPE. In the event of your vehicle needing to be towed, you can now travel safely within their vehicles again, however they are encouraging drivers to always carry a face covering. If you are self isolating/shielding or come into contact with the virus, bottom line, let the company know when you call them and they will do their upmost to get you back on the road as quickly as possible, armed with the correct knowledge of your situation.
DRIVING EXPERIENCE, POST LOCKDOWN
If you haven’t driven for a while during lockdown, you may want to familiarise yourself with driving again on quieter roads that you know well before attempting a longer trip. Be aware of other road users, particularly the increase in cyclists and walkers. Expect possible road modifications in cities to accommodate more cyclists or widening of pavements to accommodate social distancing and bus/cycle corridors.
Reassure yourself that your car is in good working order after being used less. MOTs due from 30th March 2020 have been given a 6 month extension but are still expected to be kept in a roadworthy condition. Giving your vehicle some TLC and carrying out some routine checks will ensure you feel confident about it’s safety. Here are some quick tips on what to check.
STAY HYDRATED
Ensure your car operates to the best of its ability by checking on it’s essential fluids: brake fluid, coolant, oil and windscreen wash.
RUBBER SOUL
Keep on top of the tread and condition of your tyres. There should be no cuts, or cracking visible and they should have at least 2mm of tread as the legal limit is 1.6mm. If you haven’t driven for a while, check your tyre pressures as it’s likely they will have gone down somewhat over time. Under inflated tyres can increase fuel consumption and affect braking performance.
BATTERY POWER
To ensure your battery doesn’t go flat through lack of use, get into the habit of periodically starting the engine and leaving it running for a little while. Another option to consider is investing in a trickle charger to keep your battery topped up. A trickle charger is a car battery charger designed to be left on a car for a long period of time to re-charge the battery. You would need proximity to a mains supply to use one so consider this before purchasing from a range of options online. Keep some jumpstart cables in your car in case of a flat battery whilst out and about.
LIGHT THE WAY
Part of any vehicle’s basic checks include the lights. Check your high beams, dipped and indicators and buy bulbs to replace them if any are out. If possible, ask someone to help you, including checking the brake lights are active, or park in front of a reflective surface such as a window, to see for yourself.
PUT THE BRAKES ON
Try your brakes gently before setting off to ensure they’re working properly. Whilst driving, listen for any crunching or grinding noises which may indicate corrosion.
DRIVING SOMEONE ELSE’S VEHICLE
You may have elderly parents, relatives or friends, or acquaintances that are vulnerable or high risk and are self isolating, or cautious about making their first foray back to the shops.
They ask you to do their shopping. You scan their shopping lists and then have to make that all important decision on Waitrose or Aldi… can you get away with a quick trip to the local corner shop… how far are you prepared to drive to find that rare type of spice they simply must have for their Friday stay-at-home curry recipe… however far you intend to go, if you’re not listed as a named driver on someone else’s policy, you can only drive their vehicle if you have their permission. You’ll also need a comprehensive insurance policy which includes ‘driving other cars’ (DOC), giving you the minimum legal standard of insurance (third party cover) in emergency situations only.
You could face strict penalties if you’re caught using another person’s vehicle without insurance or the owner’s permission so don’t risk it!
FILLING UP
Additional safeguarding whilst filling up has been recommended by Public Health England. Despite clarifying that motorists are at no greater risk of getting coronavirus from a pump than handling any other hard object, it’s wise to wear gloves and wash your hands after using the pumps to lessen any potential risks.
Individual fuel retailers are free to enforce their own rules on their forecourts, including use of face coverings so just be aware when you pop into the shop for that much needed travel snack and drink.
You can also pay by contactless at many pumps around the country, meaning you don’t have to go into the store itself and the limit on card use has been upped to £45.
In a world of headlines reserved for the powerhouse GT2, GT3, RS, Turbo and Turbo S models,how do you make that bread and butter 911 Carrera special, you call Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur. The all-new 2020 Porsche 911 (Generation 992) Targa 4S Heritage Design is the first of 4 classic-inspired special editions and announces the expansion of Porsche’s ‘bespoke tailoring’ Exclusive Manufaktur division.
The expansion of Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur follows on from the global success of the limited-edition 911 (Generation 991) Speedster Heritage Design, which since its launch have been trading at upwards of £300k (£200k list price). The Speedster’s Heritage Design concept provided a perfect testbed for how the design features would work on Porsche fans and customers. Porsche are planning 4 special editions from Exclusive Manufaktur over the course of the 992-generation 911’s lifetime. These will appear on different 911 variants and celebrating different designs from the 911’s history, blending modern 911 technology with design elements of the past.
The 992 Targa was the perfect model with its retro Targa styling to be the first Heritage Design production model. It is launched with details from the 50s and 60s, with an exclusive Cherry Red paintwork, inspired by the early shades of the Classic 50’s Porsche 356. The Porsche logo is in its old font and brake callipers in black, as back in the 50sthere weren’t any red or yellow brake callipers. A major design feature is the historical white livery and lollipop number stickers on the doors, where customers can specify any numbers. The Heritage Design continues into the interior with red leather and corduroy seats, as used in the 356, along with interior and exterior parts in gold trim as they once were. A unique badge on the rear lid has been reintroduced, which were given back in the day to 356 owners who had reached 100,000km in their cars.
The 911 Targa 4S Heritage Design is limited to 992 global units, which is the eighth-generation 911’s internal designation. UK prices start from £136,643, with UK deliveries expected to start in the autumn. It is £26,918 more than a standard Targa 4S, with customer likely to add a sizeable number of additional cost options extras to their final specifications. It shares the same mechanical unchanged specification from the Targa 4S’s chassis and powertrain, paired with either the eight-speed PDK or seven-speed manual transmission. Deploying it’s 444bhp 3-litre twin-turbocharged flat-six engine and all-wheel-drive system to 189mph and a 0-62mph in 3.6 seconds.
The Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur team expect the future rollout of these bespoke models to be up to two years before the next car. Porsche Exclusive stands for passion and craftsmanship, so keeping these models exclusive is key to that strategy. The future range expected to look back at the 60s, 70s and 80s based on other 911 variants. These special editions appeal to customers who are fascinated by Porsche’s rich heritage, its classic design features and want these in modern cars. This might also inspire people who have not considered a Porsche 911 with this heritage style that brings back something cool from the past.
We interviewed Kirby from AIB Insurance, a motorhome, campervan and RV specialist to talk about the latest happenings in the world of insurance:
Are you seeing anything interesting with Motorhome and Camper claims?
The last 24 months have been challenging times for insurers with motorhome, RV’s and camper thefts on the increase. Take North Wales for example – police recently revealed that 30 vehicles worth over a million pounds had been stolen over the past 16 months. They believe thieves in that area were mainly targeting Fiat Ducato and Peugeot Boxer motorhomes using technology widely available on the Internet to override the manufacturer’s security measures that included the electronic immobiliser.
On a national basis though, Ford continues to be the vehicle of choice for most thieves. Our insurance partner Ageas Insurance tells me Ford manufactured motorhomes make up less than 6% of their motorhome book but the theft rate is ridiculously high. There is no pattern as to where the motorhomes are kept, how long they have been owned or the level of security measures as they’ve seen a variety of scenarios. They have had over £350,000 worth of Fords stolen last year alone which is why they took the decision to work out what model ranges/years of manufacture were affected and decline them.
According to the Association of British Insurers (ABI), motor theft claims have increased by 20% in 2019 and motor theft claims paid by insurers in the first quarter of this year were at their highest for any quarter since 2012 with a payment made relating to vehicle crime every eight minutes. The ABI claims that the increase is in part being driven by keyless car crime whereby hi-tech criminals are able to bypass keyless technology in as little as 20 seconds. This would certainly seem to be the case with a large number of motorhome thefts as an increasing number are being stolen when they are parked on driveways.
Has this seen the cost of insurance increase?
Historically, motorhomes have been rated on three main factors: year, engine size and value (ignoring left hand drives, imports and modified vehicles etc.). Over the last 12 months, three major motorhome insurers, Aviva, Ageas and Markerstudy have taken the unusual steps to load the premium further or even decline specific years of manufacturer, especially Ford.
Generally, motorhome and campervan insurance rates have remained stagnant apart from specific manufacturers. DIY conversions tend to cost more to insure than a coach built one.
So how can owners prevent a vehicle being stolen?
If your motorhome is stolen, having the right insurance policy in place will mean that you can at least have the peace of mind of knowing that you’ll be compensated financially for your loss. However, an insurance payout can never compensate you for the inconvenience and disruption that vehicle theft causes.
The good news is that most theft is opportunistic and thieves generally don’t like to work too hard. So, if they see a motorhome fitted with wheel locks, steering or handbrake locks or wheel clamps, it may be enough to put them off. Of course, you can go further by installing an alarm, immobiliser, a tracking device or even installing PIR lights trained on your parking space that illuminate when they sense movement.
What should people look out for when insuring a motorhome, RV or campervan?
It is vital, that you take out appropriate motorhome insurance and select a policy that will cover all your needs.
Motorhome insurance is not like car insurance, it requires specialist knowledge and as such, you should speak to a specialist motorhome insurance provider. Most specialists will provide additional European cover, additional contents cover and cover for gas cylinders, generators and awnings.
We would encourage you to purchase legal expenses as, if you find yourself in a dispute, legal fees can be expensive. Likewise, breakdown cover can be challenging as non-specialist providers may place a height, length or weight restriction on the vehicle they cover.
Another thing to mention when buying cover, is the level of windscreen glass cover that the specific policy your purchasing provides. Many insurers restrict the windscreen cover to £500-£1000 but an owner of an A-Class could be left short and should seek insurers that provide unlimited glass cover.
The motorhome market continues to grow especially relating to the sale of higher value models that cost over £100,000 and that represents a different risk for insurers if they go missing.
What is happening in the classic car world – are vehicles still going up in value?
The classic vehicle market is renowned for its stability and consistency and the VW campervan is a prime example of that. Over the past 10 years, classic vehicle values have been consistently going up, outperforming just about everything I can think of apart from vintage wine. I’d argue that classic vehicles are a better investment here too as it’s possible to use them without instantly destroying their value!
That said, at the top end of the market such as Ferrari, Lamborghini and the like, it looks as though we’re finally seeing the pace slowing and interest levels cooling.
One element of this could be uncertainty. When it comes to high value classics, it’s a global market. Investors may simply be less prepared to spend big at a time of trade wars and uncertain future trading arrangements.
The classic vehicle market is forever evolving as new cars become classics as each year passes.
What’s your favourite classic within the motorhome and campervan arena?
I love the 1967 BMC Princess – it looks bonkers. Whilst it looks like a DIY conversion, it was actually coach-built on a Vanden Plas Princess chassis but was unusually modern for it’s time enjoying power steering and an automatic transmission. Another favourite would be the VW T25 hightop campervan. Again, it looks so cool and I can imagine myself sitting in it with a hot cup of tea on a cold day looking out over the ocean.
We’re continuing to monitor the situation with the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak and are following the advice provided by the Government.
Recognising the increased spread of the virus and our desire to protect our employees, like many other organisations, we have decided to suspend all non-essential international and domestic business travel. Other than that we are continuing to operate business as usual and have contingency plans in place, if needed, to ensure a continuity of service to our clients.
If you are thinking about changing your car this year then you will be pleased to read that you have a great deal of choice as vehicle manufacturers are frequently introducing new models. Whether you are looking for an electric family saloon, a high performance two-seater sports car or a luxury vehicle you should not have any difficulty in finding one that suits you. Below we highlight what may be 10 of the top cars that you may wish to consider upgrading to in 2019.
Aston Martin Rapide S
This is a four door sports car that meets the exacting standards that you would expect from Aston Martin that has been manufacturing luxury vehicles for many years here in the UK. Both the exterior and interior are beautifully styled with top of the range materials being used.
It has an eight speed automatic gear box. The V12 5,935 cc engine produces 560 bhp and the car is capable of getting from 0 to 62 mph in a mere 4.4 seconds as it heads for a top speed of 203 mph. Of course, it comes with the unmistakable roar of an Aston Martin.
Prices from £152,749.
If you are thinking about buying an Aston Martin Rapide S or perhaps another model from the range available such as the Aston Martin DBS Superleggera insurance can be arranged through us here at AIB Insurance.
Audi A8
The Audi A8 is the German manufacturer’s top of the range family salon car for the discerning executive. As one would expect from this quality car builder it has been beautifully designed and comes with many features including comfortable Valcona leather seats, LED headlights and a fantastic audio and communication system The adaptive air suspension system makes for a particularly comfortable ride.
This is a nippy vehicle with its 335 bhp 3 litre V6 petrol engine propelling you from 0 to 62mph in a mere 5.6 seconds. There is also a diesel option.
Prices start from £69.995
Bentley Mulsanne
This is the flagship model of the luxury UK car manufacturer Bentley Motors. This handmade vehicle has a choice of three combinations – Mulsanne, Mulsanne Speed that provides a more dynamic drive and the Mulsanne Extended Wheelbase that provides greater legroom.
The V8 6.75 litre twin turbo engine provides an incredible amount of power and the vehicle has wonderful road holding. 0 to 60 mph can be reached in 5.1 seconds and it has a top speed of 184 mph.
The interior personifies luxury in every way with comfortable leather seating and the infotainment system is top quality. You can even have the wood veneer created from a tree in your own garden.
Prices start from £229,360.
If you are considering purchasing a Bentley Mulsanne or buy Bentley Continental GT insurance can be arranged through ourselves.
BMW 7 Series
The BMW 7 Series is a luxury family saloon car that is manufactured to exacting standards using the finest materials. It is also available as a long wheel based version providing extra room. There is also a hybrid version.
The interior provides a warm and inviting feel with delightful leather seating that is so comfortable to relax in.
The BMW 730d xDrive has a 6 cylinder twin turbo engine that produces 265bhp and powers the vehicle form 0 to 62 mph in just 6.1 seconds.
Prices from £69,445.
You can arrange insurance cover for the BMW 7 Series or get a competitive BMW M850i xDrive insurance price through us.
Jaguar I-Pace S
This is a stunning looking all electric SUV and, as all Jaguar cars are, is fitted out to a luxury standard. It comes with semi-powered sports front seats, LED headlights and a fantastic connectivity and sound system. There are a number of other models in the range.
You may be surprised to read that this electric vehicle is capable of powering you from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds.
Prices start at £64,495
Maserati GranTurismo Sport
This Italian luxury sports coupe is beautifully crafted with elegant, sleek bodywork that can also be purchased as a soft top enabling you to enjoy the thrill of open-air motoring. Its interior is equally impressive with comfortable sports seats making long journeys a pleasure. Needless to say, the level of equipment is first class.
The exhilarating, powerful 460 bhp V8 4.7 litre engine will take you from 0 to 62mph in just 4.8 seconds producing the roar that discerning motorists have come to expect.
Prices start from £92,230
McLaren 600 LT
The name McLaren is associated with FI racing but the company also build road-specification sports cars to an extremely high standard.
The McLaren 600 LT has a twin turbo 3.8 litre V8 engine producing 592 bhp that is capable of rocketing this vehicle from 0 to 62mph in a staggering 2.9 seconds so it is certainly not for the faint hearted.
It is of course beautifully designed both outside and inside but this really is a driver’s car with wonderful road holding.
Prices from £187,625
Mercedes-Benz Maybach S650
The Mercedes-Benz Maybach S650 is an exclusive saloon car built to exacting standards both in terms of coachwork and mechanically. The company is renowned for producing executive vehicles but this model goes to another level.
It has wonderfully comfy leather seats that make every journey a pleasure and a delightful wood finish. It features Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive and Dynamic Handling resulting in a relaxing trip.
It has a 5,980cc 12 cylinder engine producing 630 bhp. This vehicle powers from 0 to 62 mph in only 4.7 seconds on its way to a top speed of 155 mph
Prices start at £175,875.
Range Rover Evoque
Range Rover is renowned for producing quality 4-wheel drive vehicles that perform as well on the motorway as they do off-road. With its distinctive styling incorporating a falling roof to the rear it has become unmistakable on the road. It comes with all the refinements you would expect from this British car manufacturer.
It has a 1,999cc engine in either petrol or diesel capable of getting from 0 to 60mph in 9.9 seconds and has a top speed of 125mph.
Prices from £31,600.
Rolls-Royce Phantom
This luxury saloon car is a dream to drive and you and your passengers will do so in style and comfort. It is described as the quietest Rolls-Royce ever built and every one is unique to the owner.
Inside, it will not come as a surprise to read that the fixtures and fittings are of the highest standard with original wood paneling and delightful leather seating. It is one of the most luxurious cars in the world.
It has a powerful V12 6.7 litre engine that will accelerate smoothly from 0 to 100mph in around 12 seconds.
Prices from £362,000.
Here at AIB Insurance, we have insured many makes and models of cars through our extensive panel of insurers. So, if you would like to obtain the likes of Aston Martin DBS Superleggera insurance, buy Bentley Continental GT insurance or obtain a BMW M850i xDrive insurance price feel free to call us on 02380 268 351 and speak with a friendly member of our team who will discuss your requirements in detail and arrange a no-obligation insurance quotation.
Just a quick message to say certain insurers including Markerstudy, Aviva and LV= are now issuing green cards for clients travelling after 31st March 2019.
We recommend if you are travelling in Europe you contact us 14 days prior to departure to ensure cover is maintained. You can contact us on the usual number 02380 268351.
There are a number of ultra-luxury, high performance cars being produced these days but we have selected a few that stand out for a variety of reasons. To be honest, we think that most drivers who appreciate sitting behind the wheel of a top quality, extremely powerful vehicle will be more than happy to take to the roads in 2019 in any one of the following:
Aston Martin DBS Superleggera
The Aston Martin DBS Superleggera has become the flagship of the Aston Martin range of exquisite looking cars but be warned as it is not for the faint-hearted as it is powered by a V12 5.2 Twin Turbo 715 bhp engine that is capable of powering this Grand Tourer from 0 to 62mph in under 3.6 seconds as it accelerates to a top speed of 211 mph.
It is constructed using lightweight materials and benefits from a double wishbone front suspension. Needless to say, the road holding is impressive but you would expect nothing less from an Aston Martin.
The leather memory heated seating contours your body providing the comfiest of rides and you will love the feel of the Obsidian Black leather sports steering wheel. Enjoy music emanating from the Aston Martin premium audio system and you will have no trouble getting to your destination using the integrated satellite navigation system. It has front and rear parking sensors, 360 degree camera and parking assist. The sound emanating from the four exhausts will leave you in no doubt that you are behind the wheel of an Aston Martin.
Prices start from £225,000.
You will be pleased to read that we can arrange Aston Martin DBS Superleggera insurance through one of our closely vetted panel of reputable insurers.
Bentley Continental GT
The Bentley Continental GT is a beautiful looking wide, low-bodied Grand Tourer coupe that is seriously powerful. For those of you that enjoy the thrill of the wind running through your hair, you will be pleased to read that it can also be purchased as a convertible. The 6 litre W12 twin turbocharged engine enables you to get from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds and has a top speed of 207 mph. It has an 8 speed dual-clutch gear box making the gear change extremely quick and smooth.
It has a 48V Active Roll Control system that is capable of sensing the conditions on the road and makes changes to maximize the car’s handling.
It is even possible to have the bodywork paint in a colour that is uniquely yours.
The interior has mood lighting to enhance your journey and the memory seating is so comfortable.
Prices start from £159,100.
If you are looking to buy Bentley Continental GT insurance why not give us a call and we will be pleased to discuss your requirements and arrange a bespoke quotation with one of our quality insurance companies.
BMW M850i xDrive
The BMW M850i xDrive is a sleek looking sports couple that you cannot fail to enjoy driving. The 8 cylinder TwinPower Turbo petrol engine produces 530 bhp enabling this luxurious vehicle to power from 0 to 62mph in a mere 3.7 seconds as it accelerates to a top speed of 155mph.
With the added benefit of 4 wheel drive it makes travelling around in wintry conditions somewhat easier. It comes with 20 inch alloy wheels, high performance tyres, M side gills, adaptive LED headlights, Harman/kardon loudspeaker system, extremely well thought out centre console, luxurious comfortable leather sports seats and ambient interior lighting creating a lovely cocooned feel.
This fantastic sports car provides everything you would expect from a BMW.
Prices start from £76,270.
Why not get in touch with us if you require a competitive BMW M850i xDrive insurance price from one of our vetted panel of insurers.
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