How Do Insurance Companies Define Sports Cars?

Let’s face it; driving in a performance model car is just more fun and exciting than schlepping to work in your average four-door sedan.  In most cases sports cars are more expensive than average vehicles because they have higher performance engines and features that cost more to integrate into the vehicle when compared to an “average” car.  Not only will a sports car be more expensive off the lot, but it will also cost more when you are buying car insurance. 

Each insurance carrier will define a sports car a little bit differently, so it is important to check first.  Here are some common factors that many insurance companies will use to determine if your car is a sports car or not.

Two doors – For most people, this doesn’t seem to be a defining factor of a sports car, but for some insurance companies it is.  Two door cars are generally smaller than a four door, and because of this, they can be determined to be less safe.  Two door cars are frequently driven by younger drivers without families.  This rule is interesting because it can “hurt” those who don’t really have a two door sports car, but help those that have a four door performance model.

Engine Size – More often if the car has a large engine (V-8 or bigger) it will be considered a sports car. These cars put out more power and are much faster.  In some cases smaller engines with modifications such as turbo chargers and super chargers can be considered sports cars as well.

Height & Weight – Sports cars are generally lower to the ground and weigh less than their non-sporty counterparts.

Other Factors that drive the insurance premium up on a sports car can be that they are often more targeted by thieves and sometimes the drivers will be more reckless when driving them.  Vehicles made of non-standard materials like fiberglass are more easily damaged and also more costly to repair.

For more information about Sports Car Insurance, please contact a qualified representative at www.aisinsurance.com.

This content is offered for educational purposes only and does not represent contractual agreements. The definitions, terms and coverages in a given policy may be different than those suggested here and such policy will be governed by the language contained therein. No warranty or appropriateness for a specific purpose is expressed or implied.