New York is so pedestrian-identified that it comes as a surprise to discover a car culture as passionate as any other metropolis (yes, we mean you, Los Angeles). In thirteen pages of car information, we reveal the frustrations of an urban grease monkey, find the best used-car salesman in New York, read the diary of one of our editors who “commuted” from his East Village apartment to our midtown office in various luxury cars, and talk to teenager Ben Sann, founder of the invaluable Website nycgarages.com. Don’t yet have the budget for your dream car? Get a mini version at Exoticar Model Company (280 Park Ave., nr. 48th St.; 212-573-9537); there are thousands to choose from, including the popular 1/43 scale models shown here (from $29) The only detail they’re missing: parking tickets.
Cut the Glare
With vintage- inspired aviators ($325 at Linda Derector, 211 Mott St., nr. Spring St.; 212-680-3023).
Accessorize Like a Pro
Even if you don’t own a steering wheel (driving gloves, $75 at Sermoneta, 609 Madison Ave., nr. 58th St.; 212-319-5946).
Sports-Car Luggage
Small enough to fit in a coupe’s trunk, large enough to be practical (leather and canvas bag, $597 at Paul Stuart, 350 Madison Ave., at 45th St.; 212-682-0320).
Convertible Not Included
A firmly knotted silk scarf is still the best way to keep hair under control ($325 at Hermès, 691 Madison Ave., nr. 62nd St.; 212-751-3181).
Better-Looking Than E-ZPass
Keep toll change organized and handy (zip wallet, $175 at Anya Hindmarch, 115 Greene St., nr. Prince St.; 212-343-8147).
Roll Down the Windows
But stave off chill spring breezes (jacket, $328 at Banana Republic, 626 Fifth Ave., at 50th St.; 212-974-2350).
For Stepping on It
Bring out your inner Michael Schumacher with Formula 1–style racing shoes (Puma SF Trionfo Lo II, $130 at Puma, 521 Broadway, nr. Spring St.; 212-334-7861).
To Have on Hand
Never Ask for Directions
This new touch-screen GPS gizmo fits in your pocket and comes preloaded with maps for walking or driving (Garmin Nüvi 200, $399 at Best Buy [in April], 60 W. 23rd St., nr. Sixth Ave.; 212-366-1373).
A Glove-Box Staple
Check tire pressure regularly; it helps gas mileage (pressure gauge, $5.99 at AutoZone, 250 E. Houston St., nr. Norfolk St.; 646-602-0389).
For Display Purposes
Hang this tony set of 52 imported Kraum stainless-steel tools on the wall, where it belongs ($4,995 at Bergdorf Goodman, 754 Fifth Ave., nr. 58th St.; 212-753-7300).