Q: Are owners of regular versions of autos trying to make them seem like sexier cars by adding emblems and such from higher-priced models? For instance, I've seen badges on conventional Mercedes-Benz models with the AMG insignia from Mercedes' high-performance car operation and Mercedes models with V-8s rebadged as 12-cylinder models. Also, I've noticed Chrysler 300 models with regular engines with the "300C" badges found on 300 models with Chrysler's powerful Hemi V-8? --G.P., Chicago

A: This has been happening for a long time, although average motorists probably don't notice, or care, about the deception. You're obviously a car buff who does notice. Automakers don't seem to mind. Online auction service eBay has said it sells about 15,000 items monthly in the auto emblem category. The AMG emblem can be bought at a Mercedes dealer's parts department for about $70, and the "300C" insignia costs only about $12.50. But auto enthusiasts can't be tricked, says Jim Wangers of California's Automotive Marketing Consultants. That's because clues such as special exhaust pipes or wheels give away imitation models. Wangers -- the marketing whiz behind the Pontiac GTO muscle car -- says he found many tame Pontiac Tempest models, which had the same basic body as the GTO, masquerading as GTOs with GTO badges in the 1960s.

Q: My 1987 Porsche 944 has been in storage for years. It runs but needs major repairs to the clutch and air conditioner, besides many minor repairs. I want to sell the car, rather than repair or restore it. What's the best way to get maximum resale value? There must be a market for vintage Porsches. --G.S., Chicago

A: The 1983-89 944 isn't a vintage Porsche, as are rear-mounted, air-cooled-engine 356 models from the 1950s and 1960s and 911 or 912 models from the 1960s to early 1970s. The 944 was a big improvement over the earlier 924 model but was never really accepted by Porsche fans because it had a front-mounted, liquid-cooled engine. Repairs to any Porsche are costly. And it seems as if they'll cost far more than your car is worth, which is $2,650-$2,900, according to the Old Cars Price Guide. One of the worst things you can do to a car is let it sit for a long time because that causes it to deteriorate. Try a newspaper or online ad, being honest about the 944's condition and see what happens.

Q: I'm an 84-year-old woman who is thinking of buying the economical new smart fortwo two-seat minicar after seeing a picture of it. I do mostly city driving. Any information about it? --E.F., Chicago

A: I think you'd be unhappy with the smart fortwo (Dec. 3 AutoTimes). It's easy to get in the car, which is designed mainly for urban driving, but it has a jerky transmission, uneven brake action, rather heavy steering, noisy engine and bumpy ride on typical Chicago streets. It's mainly aimed at a young crowd. Read my review of the fortwo (all small letters) on the Sun-Times Internet autos site: searchchicago.com/autos. You're best off with a small, conventional economy car.

Q: I've been taking my cars to the same dealership for years and have been happy with its work. But, after bringing my wife's car to that dealer for an oil change and winter checkup, I noticed it was leaking a small amount of oil. I returned the car and was told it needed a costly valve cover gasket replacement and steering system repair. I wouldn't like to think that dealer is cheating me but suspect it might be "making work" because of the depressed economy and its lack of service customers. But I don't know for sure. Suggestions? --D.M., Chicago area

A: You indicate that the dealership has treated you fairly for years. But has it changed hands and/or have a new service manager who might be looking to "create business?" Your car indeed might need the repairs the dealer's service department mentions, but get a second opinion from another facility.

Q: I bought a Toyota Highlander hybrid SUV for my family but like convertibles and wonder if Toyota will offer convertibles with a hybrid option. --M.S., Chicago area

A: Toyota national spokesman Bill Kwong said the automaker would like to put hybrid powertrains in all its models, including convertibles, but Toyota is disclosing no definite timeline for hybrid convertibles.

Q: I'd like to rent an exotic sports car such as a Ferrari or Lamborghini for the weekend while in Florida. Should I know anything special to ask an exotic car provider to protect me from unknown factors that may come with renting such a special car? --E.W., Evanston

A: The exotic car rental industry is growing. One outfit in it is Gotham Dream Cars, which has Florida and New York outlets. It says to make sure the car you're renting is owned or leased by the rental company and not a private owner's car, which lets a fly-by-night outfit avoid the legalities and difficulties of insurance and financing. Also know terms and conditions of the rental agreement before arranging the rental. Gotham says exotic car rental companies rarely, if ever, give unlimited mileage. What happens if the car breaks down? What about roadside assistance? Make sure the rental outfit has adequate staffing and someone responsible for the vehicle's maintenance, both aesthetically and mechanically. Have realistic expectations. The exotic you've chosen might be the car of your dreams, but expect normal wear and tear because it's still a rental car and has been driven by others.

Car question? Send it to Dan Jedlicka, Chicago Sun-Times, 350 N. Orleans, Chicago 60654, or e-mail djedlicka@suntimes.com. Include name and hometown.