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From Mustangs to Colts: How Cars and Horses Gallop Together at the Kentucky Derby

The Kentucky Derby is a celebration of equestrian excellence, showcasing the power and grace of thoroughbred racehorses. But beyond the thundering hooves and silky jockeys' silks, there's another fascinating connection to the world of automobiles. Here, we explore how cars and horses surprisingly intersect in the grand spectacle of the Derby.

Mustang Magic: A Match Made in Speed

The most obvious link to horses is the Ford Motor Company. Since 2020, Ford has been the official truck, SUV, car, and van of the Kentucky Derby and its legendary home, Churchill Downs. This partnership goes deeper than just branding. The "Mustang," a cornerstone of the Ford lineup since 1964, embodies the very spirit of the Derby. The Mustang's name evokes the image of a wild horse, perfectly mirroring the untamed spirit and raw athleticism of thoroughbred racehorses.

Beyond Mustangs: Horses in the Fast Lane

Several other car manufacturers have taken inspiration from the equine world. Dodge offered the Dodge Colt from 1970 to 1994. The "Colt" name refers to a young male horse, hinting at the car's agility and youthful vigor. Hyundai entered the luxury car market in 1999 with the Equus, its name derived from "Equus," the genus encompassing horses, zebras, and donkeys.

From Track to Transport: The Unsung Heroes

The glamorous world of thoroughbred racing relies heavily on the unsung heroes of the industry: trucks. Workhorses like the Ford Super Duty Truck, a mainstay since 1999, are vital for breeders, trainers, and owners. These powerful trucks haul essential equipment and transport horses between stables, farms, and racing venues.

Custom Colts and Vintage Victories

The connection between cars and the Derby extends beyond factory models. Car enthusiasts and artists often create custom designs with horse themes. Imagine a Ford Mustang with a paint job featuring a majestic stallion or a Dodge Colt adorned with tiny horseshoes – these personalized touches celebrate the Derby spirit on four wheels.

The Kentucky Derby's rich history also offers a unique connection. Vintage car clubs might participate in Derby parades, showcasing classic automobiles from a time when horse-drawn carriages ruled the road. These vintage beauties serve as a reminder of the Derby's long and storied tradition.

The Pegasus Parade: A Symbolic Crossover

In addition to the on-track spectacle, the Kentucky Derby features the Pegasus Parade, adding a mythological twist with its name. Pegaso from the now defunct Spanish automaker was named after the Pegasus.

So, the next time you witness the thundering excitement of the Kentucky Derby, remember to look beyond the racetrack. The spirit of the Derby gallops into the world of automobiles, from the mighty Mustang to the dependable trucks, and even onto the custom designs of passionate car enthusiasts.

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Get Top Dollar for Your Old Car This Spring

Spring has sprung, and so has the opportunity to trade in your old car for top dollar! Just like the flowers bloom in vibrant colors, your chance to upgrade your ride shines brightly this season.

Why Trade-In Your Old Car This Spring?

• Spring Cleaning Your Garage: Spring cleaning isn't just for your home! Declutter your garage and say goodbye to your old car, making space for something new and exciting.

• Seasonal Deals in Bloom: Take advantage of our trade-in offers and get top dollar for your current vehicle. This additional value can help you secure the car of your dreams.

• New Season, New Adventures: Spring is a time for new beginnings and fresh starts. Embrace the season by embarking on new adventures in a reliable and fuel-efficient car.

• Tax Time Advantage: If you're expecting a tax refund, use it to maximize the value you receive on your trade-in. This is a fantastic opportunity to significantly reduce the cost of upgrading your car.

Trade-In Made Easy

Trading in your car is easy and convenient:

• Get a free instant online quote and see how much your car is worth in just minutes.

• Schedule a hassle-free appraisal at our dealership and receive a firm offer based on a thorough inspection.

• Choose from our extensive selection of new and pre-owned vehicles to find the perfect car for your needs and budget.

• Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will guide you through every step of the trade-in process, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.

Don't let your old car hold you back from experiencing the joy of spring! Trade it in today and bloom into a safer, more fuel-efficient, and exciting car ownership journey.

Visit or call us today to learn more about our trade-in process and discover the perfect car for you!

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It's More Than Meets The Eye!

Image Source: Pinterest

If you've ever owned a vehicle no doubt you been what's called upside down in your car. It's when you owe more that the vehicle is worth. Well Rick Sullivan, a mechanic from Clinton, Illinois, spent six months and $6,000 to bring this extraordinary concept to life. The inspiration struck him when he saw a Ford Ranger overturned in the snow. This sight sparked an idea: to create a vehicle that permanently looked like it was flipped over.

Building Process

• Base Vehicle: The drivetrain of a '91 Ford Ranger.

• Transformation: Stripping the Ranger's body and fitting an upside-down Ford F-150 body onto it.

This project required not just mechanical skills but also a creative vision, something that is often undervalued in the automotive world.

Community Reaction and Impact

The truck has become a local sensation, drawing attention and sparking conversations wherever it goes. Passersby are often initially confused, then delighted by the truck's design.

Need A New Car?

It may be fun to drive an truck that is literally upside down but not so much when you owe more on a vehicle than it's worth. Stop by today where you can find a car that not only meets your needs but also puts you on a more stable financial path. Remember, being "upside down" isn't a permanent state – with the right approach, you can turn it around and drive forward with confidence.

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What is the difference between front wheel drive and all wheel drive?

When you are looking for a new car, one of the decisions you have to make is whether to get a front wheel drive (FWD) or all wheel drive (AWD) vehicle. Both options have their pros and cons, so which one should you choose? Here is a look at the pros and cons of each option:

How Do Front Wheel Drives Cars Work

Front wheel drive cars are powered by the front wheels, while the back wheels simply rotate and provide traction. This is different from rear wheel drive cars, which are powered by the back wheels. Front wheel drive cars are more stable and easier to control than rear wheel drive cars, making them a popular choice for many drivers.

Another way to explain it would be to say that a front wheel drive vehicle transfers power from the engine to the front wheels, while a rear wheel drive vehicle transfers power from the engine to the back wheels.

What are the pros of front wheel drive vehicles

• Front wheel drive vehicles are better for fuel economy because only the front wheels are used to power the car. This means that less power is needed, and you will save on gas money.

• Rear wheel drive vehicles are better for getting through tough terrain and handling curves. The weight of the engine is at the back of the car, which gives it more stability when driving on winding roads or in slippery conditions.

What are the cons of front wheel drive vehicles

Front wheel drive vehicles can sometimes be less stable than all wheel drive vehicles, especially when cornering or braking. This is because the weight of the engine is pushing down on the front wheels, which can cause them to lose traction. Additionally, front wheel drive vehicles can be more difficult to control in icy or snowy conditions.

How does all wheel drive work?

All wheel drive is a system that sends power to all four wheels of a vehicle. This can help improve traction and handling in slippery or challenging conditions. AWD systems vary in complexity, with some relying on sensors to detect when the car needs more traction and distributing power accordingly. Others use a center differential to split the power between the front and rear wheels.

Regardless of the system in use, all wheel drive can provide a safer and more sure-footed driving experience. If you're looking for a car that can handle any condition, consider an all wheel drive model.

What are the pros of all wheel drive vehicles

All wheel drive vehicles are better in slippery conditions because all four wheels are used to power the car. This gives you more traction and prevents you from slipping and sliding. If you live in an area that gets a lot of snow, an AWD car is a better option. They also provide more stability and control than FWD cars when driving on slick surfaces.

What are the con's of an all wheel drive car?

All wheel drive cars can be more expensive than front wheel drive cars. They also require more maintenance, as all of the components need to be working properly in order to distribute power evenly. AWD cars can also be less fuel-efficient than FWD cars, and they take up more space on the road.

So Which Type Of Car Car Should I Get?

That’s a question that can only be answered by you. Consider the pros and cons of both front wheel drive and all wheel drive vehicles to see which option would be best for your needs. If you live in an area with lots of icy or snowy conditions, an all wheel drive vehicle might be a better option. But if you live in a warmer climate and don’t need the extra traction, a front wheel drive vehicle could be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision is up to you!

SUVs are one of the most versatile vehicles on the market. They offer great family legroom and more storage for gear than a regular car making them ideal for family vacations.

What Are The Different Types Of SUVs

If you're in the market for an SUV, first, consider what size will best suit your needs. There are small SUVs (also called crossovers), midsize SUVs, and large SUVs.

• Smaller SUVs offer better fuel economy and easier maneuverability, while large SUVs can accommodate more people and gear.

• Crossovers are based on a car chassis, so they have unibody construction and usually offer better fuel economy than truck-based SUVs. They also tend to be smaller and more maneuverable than truck-based SUVs.

• Midsize SUVs offer a happy medium between crossovers and large SUVs. They're big enough to comfortably seat up to eight people, but not so large that they're difficult to park or maneuver.

• Large SUVs are the largest and most expensive SUVs on the market. They offer the most passenger and cargo space, but can be difficult to park and maneuver. They also tend to have poorer fuel

Next, decide what kind of features you're looking for in a SUV. Do you need four-wheel drive for off-roading or bad weather? Would you like a third row of seating to fit more passengers? Do you need a lot of cargo space for hauling gear?

Ready to start shopping for an SUV? Check out our inventory of new and used SUVs. We've got a wide selection of makes and models to choose from. If you're unsure of what SUV is right for you, our friendly and knowledgeable staff can help. Stop by today and take a test drive!