Some people swear by American cars, while others prefer European imports. Each type has distinctive strengths and quirks that differentiate them enough that you may need to choose a different auto mechanic for the various makes. Here are some of the main differences to help you to discern between the two.

What Your Auto Mechanic Wants You to Know About American & European Cars

1. Size

European roads have a much longer history than American ones. Many of their streets were once designed for pedestrians or wagons, not cars. In some cases, cattle blazed the trails, which were then paved in meandering patterns later. Roads tend to be narrower, particularly in the old cities across the landscape. Large American cars like SUVs wouldn't be practical there, so European vehicles are almost always smaller. If you take a car to an auto mechanic in either location, however, the inner workings are fundamentally the same.

2. Operating Speed

On European freeways, the speed limit is often much higher than it is in America. European cars are expected to handle smoothly at higher speeds, so you'll notice a difference in performance compared to American cars. Manual transmissions are also more common in Europe, prioritizing control and smooth handling over the convenience prized in American automatic transmissions. 

3. Fuel Efficiency

Partly due to the size differences and partly due to design, European cars, on average, get better gas mileage. There is a wide degree of variation between models, so extremely efficient American cars may outperform some European vehicles in this area. Still, the most efficient European cars are cheaper to run and last longer without needing foreign auto repair.

If you need an auto mechanic familiar with the differences that set European cars apart, choose H & S Tire & Auto Center in Wentzville, MO. Serving St. Charles County, this family-owned store has over 40 years of history and provides hometown-style care you won't find at big-box shops. To schedule service, call (636) 327-5225, or explore their services online.