Simplicity, dependability, strength and singularity of purpose were their calling cards. No one could confuse the purpose of these beasts. It was plain for all, and it was straight-line performance for one quarter of a mile. Nothing else mattered.

Contrast that with today and the lore of days past becomes even more apparent. A new Corvette will defeat even the most powerful Corvette of old in every category. The current generation of performance cars thumps the muscle car in safety, comfort, reliability and, yes, performance. But, that does not tell the whole story and it doesn?t explain the current interest in and corresponding sky rocketing values of classic muscle cars. The clarity of purpose these super cars exuberated just feels good. It awakens the cave man in each of us! These automobiles have a particular hold on the generation that came of age in the late 1960?s. Many feel that this is their last chance to re-live their youth and they are willing to pay for the opportunity.

For example, a 1970 Dodge Hemi ?Cuda sold for $4,035 new and well- preserved models are routinely offered and $150,000 today. That represents and 10.6% annual return. Not a bad return considering the stock market has returned 7.4% annual over the same period. Similarly, and 1970 Chevy Chevelle SS convertible with a 454ci engine sold for $4,200 new and to will cost around $115,000 or a 9.7% annual return. Finally, a 1969 Boss Mustang with a 429ci Engine originally cost $4,150 and today trades for $115,000. That is a 9.6% return over the same period.

Granted these are examples of the rarest and most sought after muscle cars. However, even ?common? muscle cars have experienced notable gains. The 1970 Plymouth Road Runner with a 440ci engine sold for $3,500 and today trades at $55,000. A 1967 Pontiac GTO cost $3,750 and now goes for $45,000. That?s a 6.8% compounded rate of return.

The investor in muscle cars must consider a few very important points. First, all investments have risks. This market, like real estate or technology stocks, could fall as fast as it has risen. Second, unlike stocks and money market investments, muscle cars do not pay dividends or interest. Indeed, they cost money to maintain, store and restore. Third, rarity matters. As the numbers above show, the rarest muscle cars have preformed the best. Finally, get a second opinion when considering a classic muscle car. Mechanics are a good choice and a mechanic that has actually restored a few cars is the best choice. Nothing beats experience.

Obviously, one of the most important variables to consider when considering muscle cars as an investment is the condition. Only the most original and accurately restored examples fetch these prices. More common versions or cars in lower conditions will sell for significantly less. For the collector that actually wants to drive their cars regularly these more common versions may actually be a better value.

The choice of a rare collector muscle car or a common daily driver depends on the budget and the purpose of the collector. Both offer unique benefits to the owner and much enjoyment. The chance to re-live our youth is always a pleasant experience.

Water - How Important Is It In Our Daily Diet And With Weight Loss?
Angela Emde 
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The importance of drinking water is mentioned in almost every article on weight loss. It is a very important fact that we need to drink water whether we are dieting or not. It is water that assists with the dissolving and transporting of nutrients such as oxygen and minerals to the organs of the body.

I know many people will say YUK to water but drinking other fluids may hydrate your body but you will need to consider the extra calories and sugar in them if trying to lose weight. Also it maybe time to learn to like to drink water due to the health benefits water provides. If water is not your thing, try flavouring it with a slice of lemon or start with mixing half apple/orange or cranberry juice with water.

Here are 8 reasons to drink 8 x 250ml glasses of water per day.

1. We need water to avoid dehydration. Dehydration can have devastating effects on our health and has been linked to constipation, headaches, dizziness, leg cramps and more…

2. Water helps rid the body of waste, by flushing out toxins from the fat cells. This process can eliminate problems with constipation.

3. Water helps the kidneys to function properly. When insufficient water is drunk the kidneys cannot work properly and this has an effect on our liver. It is the livers job to convert stored fat to energy. If the liver needs to do some of the work that the kidneys should be doing, than the liver can not work as it should do to metabolize fat and therefore the fat is stored rather than broken down and used as energy.

4. Water aids in the burning of fat. To burn fat the fat cells need to first be free of excess water and toxins. One reason you may not be losing weight is your not drinking enough water so your body holds on to what water it gets for survival. Our metabolic rate is the rate in which we burn calories. Water is required for this process to function at its best. Studies have shown that a decrease in water intake will cause fat deposits to increase, while an increase in water intake can actually reduce fat deposits

5. Water suppresses the appetite naturally. When your stomach is full of water, you'll feel full sooner. If you think you are hungry, drink a glass of water and wait 10 minutes before eating something as you may just be thirsty. (However water should not be substituted for food, still eat your 3 meals per day and 2-3 healthy snacks per day)

6. Enough water helps reduce water retention. To get rid of excess water, one has to consume more water. This is because if not enough water is drunk the body goes into survival mode and stores water in extra-cellular spaces. This can show up as swollen feet, legs, hands.

7. Water helps maintain proper muscle tone by giving muscles their natural ability to contract more effectively. Muscle tone will prevent the sagging skin that usually follows weight loss.

8. Water does wonders for your skin it leaves you with a clear, glowing complexion as impurities have been washed out of your system.

Suggested ways to include water in your daily diet are:

• Have a glass of water at every meal time. Breakfast, Mid-morning, Lunch, Mid-afternoon, Supper.

• Keep a water bottle full at your desk or if you're at home on the kitchen counter and reach for it to sip from throughout the day.

• Take a bottle of water with you in the car to sip when waiting in traffic.

• Drink water prior and after exercise. Naturally if you are exercising more water will be required than the daily recommended.

Once you have reached your weight loss goal continue to feed your body with water on a daily basis.

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