A "tuner car" is a "Hot rod" built for you by somebody else. I the current media (magazines and car press/shows), it is usually a "new" car, technically it is used before being turned over to the tuner, that is done over with bigger brakes, maybe a bigger turbo, maybe some interior re-do, electronics, better exhaust, a little "bling bling" and of course, enough decals, badges and wheels and tires to let everyone know you spent some serious change to get it.

As far as the Ford side, The Steeda, Roush, and a few other s could be classified as Tuner cars.

The Mercedes "AMG" line are tuner cars. Something like the BMW "M" class cars are called tuners too, but there is an argument there...cause they are built on the factory floor, not as an after market product. There is also companies like the Saleen, which are actually classified as Low volume manufactuers. The cars are purchsed from the factory, then done to their own specifications. They have to submit the cars for Fed crash and smog testing and everything, just like the big boys. The tuners don't have to go thru the same regulations, they have you purchase the car, then deliver it to them for modification...technically its a "used" car, so all they have to contend with is making sure it is within the guidelines that you would have to adhere to if you did the stuff yourself.

Least wise, that's the way I heard it.


<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: Beoweolf on 3/8/04 1:56am ]</font>