Performance Car Shop vs. Auto Repair Shop
Performance car shops and auto repair shops are both the same, right? Not exactly. An auto repair shop can be a performance car shop, but a performance car shop cannot be an auto repair shop.
But what exactly is the difference? Both differ massively, and although they deal with cars, they deal with different types. It’s like comparing a grill and a cauldron; both are used to cook but for two different kinds of foods.
Performance Car Shop vs. Auto Repair Shop – Know The Difference
Before we start differentiating between both, we need to know what a performance car is. A performance car is a vehicle that is designed to be tested for high speed, agility, and power, characterized by a strong engine, advanced suspension, and aerodynamics. It is designed to be driven on a racetrack and often comes with additional elements like turbo, sporty design, a heavy engine like V8, and brakes that can handle the speed.
Does Performance Car Shop Deal In a Performance Car’s Repair?
After listening to the definition, the first thing that would come to your mind is “Does a performance car shop deal with the repair of performance cars?” Once again, you are not quite right. One of the key characteristics of performance car drivers is that they modify their cars frequently, and performance car shops deal with exactly that.
The 8 Key Differences
Apart from the already discussed obvious differences, there are other differences as well. These differences serve as defining characteristics for both. Eleven of the differences are as follows:
- Service offered
- Customer base
- Expertise and specialization
- Parts and equipments
- Pricing and cost structure
- Facility and atmosphere
- Focus on preventative maintenance vs. upgrades
- Relationship with customers
1. The Services Offered – Upgrade vs. Repair
This is the most significant difference. Auto repair shops focus on repairing what’s broken or worn out on standard vehicles. They fix brakes, change oil, replace mufflers, diagnose engine problems, and so on. On the other hand, performance car shops focus on upgrading and enhancing a vehicle’s performance beyond its original factory specifications.
2. Customer Base – Normal Drivers vs. Car Enthusiasts
Auto repair shops serve the general public, which is anyone who needs their car fixed. On the other hand, performance car shops cater to a niche market: car enthusiasts, racers, and people who want to modify their vehicles for increased speed, power, handling, or a unique look.
3. Expertise and Specialization – A Massive Shift
Auto repair shops need mechanics with a broad knowledge of various car makes and models. They need to be able to diagnose and fix a wide range of problems. On the contrary, performance car shops require specialized expertise in high-performance vehicles, aftermarket parts, and tuning. They often focus on specific brands or types of modifications e.g., engine building, suspension tuning, custom fabrication.
4. Parts and Equipment – Performance-Based vs. Normal Drive
Auto repair shops primarily use standard OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) replacement parts. Performance car shops use aftermarket parts designed to improve performance, such as turbochargers, superchargers, high-flow exhaust systems, upgraded brakes, and performance suspension components. They also have specialized tools and equipment for installing and tuning these parts.
5. Price and Costs Structure – Upgrade Cost vs. Workmanship Cost
Auto repair shops typically charge based on standard labor rates and the cost of replacement parts. Performance car shops often charge higher labor rates due to their specialized expertise, and the aftermarket parts they use are typically much more expensive than standard replacement parts. The overall cost is usually significantly higher.
6. Facility and Atmosphere – Friendly vs. Total Car-Focused
Auto repair shops are generally designed for efficiency and functionality. They might not be the most aesthetically pleasing places. Performance car shops often have a more “enthusiast” vibe. They might have a showroom displaying performance parts, a waiting area with car magazines, and a generally more “gearhead” atmosphere.
7. Maintenance – Preventive vs. Upgrade
Auto repair shops focus heavily on preventative maintenance routine services, like oil changes, tire rotations, and brake pad replacements to keep a car running reliably. While they can do maintenance, performance car shops primarily focus on upgrades and modifications beyond basic maintenance.
8. Customer Relationship – Professional vs. Informal
The relationship between a customer and an auto repair shop is usually transactional and professional. However, the relationship with a performance car shop can be more informal and collaborative. It often involves a discussion of the customer’s goals and preferences for their vehicle, and the customer is often more directly involved in the decision-making process.
Upgrade Your Vehicle With Elite Performance Automotive – Performance Car Shops in McKinney
Looking for performance car shops in McKinney, TX, and thinking of adding performance upgrades to your vehicle? We have years of experience in adding upgrades to various types of vehicles: cars, trucks, and SUVs. Let Elite Performance Automotive add horsepower to your engine or upgrade those factory brakes, suspension, or drivetrain to new aftermarket premium parts to get you the most enjoyment out of your vehicle today.
You can contact us by calling at 214 856 4509, visiting our showroom at 330 Industrial Blvd, Ste 109 McKinney, TX 75069, or book an appointment online, We strongly believe that a perfect car means a smooth drive and a happy person overall.