SummaryWhat is a coupé? The different types of coupesWho is the coupe for? What are the specific characteristics of each type of coupe? How to choose the right second-hand coupe?
What is a coupe?
The line of a coupe vehicle is more or less a derivative of a compact or midsize sedan from the automaker. This type of body conveys a rather sporty image. Usually equipped with 2 doors and a shorter chassis, its lower roof height due to lowered suspensions are the causes of its dynamic aesthetic.
Small little by little, alternatives to the classic coupe appeared. Some coupes, like a sedan, have 3 doors when they retain their tailgate. As a result, they rarely have roominess in the rear. Likewise, in used car ads, some coupes derived from large sedans have 5 relatively spacious seats for this type of bodywork.
Today, real coupes, i.e. coaches equipped with 2 doors and 4 side windows, have become rare.
We can find some models not derived from sedans, then called "GT" and more recently "convertible coupes" where the hard top is retractable.
The different types of coupes
1. The classic coupe
Finding an aesthetic car with a length of less than 4 m with the sporty lines of all its cars, attracts many motorists. Whether it is a real coupe or a coach, with or without central pillars, its 2 side doors and low profile allow it to perform better. Indeed, its mechanics are more powerful, the running gear more efficient and the aerodynamics better.
In the upper segment, the line of the coupe is more elongated, reminiscent of a medium or large sedan and then becomes a GT ("Gran Turismo"). Its price is then higher, but accompanied by high-end and high-tech equipment. The GT coupe being heavier, it has less sporty dynamics, but it still has very good performance, especially in top speed.
Classic coupe models: Alfa-Romeo 4C; BMW Z4; Lotus Exige; Peugeot RCZ; Audi A4; Porsche 911 or 944.2. The four-door coupe
A relatively recent category, this marketing tip designates a derivative of a sportier-looking sedan with more dynamic performance. Long, wide and generally less tall, these 4-door coupes push the GT concept into the realm of luxury and elegance. Here, with lengths often exceeding 4.5 m, there are 5 real seats and, above all, easy access to the rear. Their beautiful racy aesthetic, their noble mechanics and their high selling price make them typical models of premium brands, sometimes close to luxury cars.
Four-door coupe models: Mercedes CLS then CLA; Rover P5 coupe; Aston Martin Rapide; Porsche Panamera; Audi A5 Sportback. Under this theme, find a used Porsche Panamera.
Who is the coupe for?
Most coupe buyers are real enthusiasts, and that's thanks to the The combination of aesthetics and the guarantee of dynamic driving. Ideally, the coupé will therefore carry 2 occupants with little luggage, or even 4 people in the case of GTs. In addition, the shortened length of a coupe will allow lower fuel consumption and some ability in built-up areas (except for the larger GTs). GTs will perform much better on national roads and highways where they activate the muscles of their specific engines.
What are the characteristics specific to each type of coupe?
Knowing the different characteristics of each type of coupe can allow the future buyer to make a choice according to his needs.
The classic coupe: compact and sporty, offers the pleasure of dynamic driving, accompanied by a refined aesthetics and a relative exclusivity of the model; The coach: derived more directly from the sedan, it benefits from very good road performance, especially on long journeys and a more efficient engine; The GT: latest evolution of the coupe, it offers better comfort and stands out for its blend of dynamism and a sedan of character.
How to choose the right used coupe?
Used auto coupes are in the sale of cars of 'opportunity, very s wanted for some time. However, it is important to take certain precautions before making the purchase. As with any type of car, it is quite difficult to know how the previous owner maintained his vehicle. Being highly stressed, the running gear (suspensions, shock absorbers, etc.), as well as the transmissions (gearbox, clutch, etc.) must be correctly checked during the car tests in order to apprehend the slightest noise or anomaly. Tires wear out very quickly these days, so some care needs to be taken as well. Replacing parts on these vehicles can be very expensive, so much so that after a few years some drivers reduce their maintenance budget and neglect the good health of their car. 'prove to be expensive, especially with regard to the most powerful mechanics. In addition, the risk is greater on the oldest cars with the most mileage, in particular because of the aging of the parts. As with any car, checking the logbook and maintenance invoices is essential.
When it comes to buying a used coupe, it is quite possible to 'find it at a dealership for the price of a new city car. However, in the used car market, there are a lot of models from imports of all brands (Audi, BMW, Mercedes, etc.). If the prices can be interesting, you must still be careful of tampered meters, different levels of equipment and other scams.
Then prefer to call a professional (garages, concessions ...) or a trusted intermediary such as CapCar!
To buy your used coupe, call on Capcar! At Kyump, we select the best used cars. After a thorough inspection carried out on 200 checkpoints, we validate the vehicle and put it up for sale on behalf of his / her owner. In addition, the car has a mechanical warranty of at least 6 months (extension possible up to 24 months). You are buying a quality car at the best price. Check out the Kyump buying process as well as our used cars for sale!
Market estimate, fast, free
