The Top 3 Car and Auto Sites

For a product that is such an integral part of our life today, don’t you think that it is surprising to see the demise of the automobile as we know it, almost before our very eyes? It is probably fitting that for a country credited with inventing the automobile – or certainly bringing it to life – the United States has been at the epicenter of the reinvention, which is sure to continue apace. Whilst in the grander scheme of things what we’re going through is probably a “significant correction,” there is little doubt that the shape and feel of the humble car will be very different in years ahead. Our love affair with the automobile is likely to still continue though, and there is still a vibrant online community catering to the “petrol heads” of the world. For those who would rather be on four wheels than two legs here is the Young Entrepreneur’s classification of the top car and auto sites online:

1. Car Domain

This is one of the success stories within the world of automotive enthusiasts. The site was started and privately financed by two young entrepreneurs in Seattle, WA. Surviving against initially strong competition, Car Domain went on to achieve a ranking as one of the top sites in the industry in relation to visitor traffic. The site is dedicated to its core clientèle, the up to 25 demographic, for whom cars can be an obsession. The site is very much tailored to this community and also focuses on what continues to be a strong aftermarket for parts and accessories. With 600,000 registered members and an avid following, Car Domain will be poised to capitalize on the industry’s comeback.

2. Top Gear

Top Gear has always been an “off the wall” phenomenon. Based on the original BBC TV programs in the UK, topgear.com has successfully translated its small screen appeal to the web. Much of the success of the TV series was due to its personalities, some of whom achieved an almost cult like following, and that has not been lost by the website creators. The site is visually stimulating with much emphasis on video reviews and multimedia. Although the layout is somewhat quirky at times, maybe in keeping with the site’s roots, interaction is encouraged with the legion of fans through several popular WordPress blogs.

3. Auto Week

Autoweek, as a publication, has been around for some 50 years and has evolved into a symbolic brand. For many it is a must read if you love the automotive lifestyle and the website is famous for taking an in-depth look through a wide spectrum of issues. They have been quick to embrace social networking with the introduction of a community online, reaching out to many tens of thousands of registered users. Realizing the power of video online, Autoweek TV features a daily videocast summarizing developments in the world of the auto enthusiast. You can be sure that autoweek.com will be one of the first to break a story.

So what do you think about our Top 3 Car and Auto Websites? We want to hear your thoughts about our choices. Who would be on your Top 3 Car and Auto lists and why?

Matthew Toren