What's the difference between car covers?
 

I notice most are $100+ and some are even $200+, but I could also get one from Walmart for like $50. What is the difference? Why would I want one for $100+ when I could get one for $50? Thanks!

Because the better ones are microfiber (like Gore-Tex) which repel water but also breath so they don't trap condensation. You get what you pay for. Go for a good one.

Mine is from California Car Covers, but there are other manufacturers of similar materials.


http://www.calcarcover.com/cover_find.aspx

well, it seems cal car cover and covercraft are the most popular so i'll just go with one of those. does the car have to be perfectly clean to put on the cover? my car basically just goes to autox so i plan to have it washed and detailed before i put it on for the first time, and certainly dont want to wash it every time i want to put the cover on...

If the car were really dirty I wouldn't cover it, as in the wind the cover might shift enough to abrade the paint via the dirt. A cover is really to keep a clean car clean, or an outdoors wintered car protected. I only use my cover for the latter, cleaned/waxed prior.

Although you may be concerned with intense Sun and salt air? If only a little dusty you'll be fine covering.

btw: I always carry products to quickly clean bird droppings and the like. And especially in the Spring I have a California Duster handy when I pull into the garage at night.

covercraft is a VERY good choice, that's what I use when I drive my 8. (since it sits outside for 8 - 10 hours when I'm at the office)
It is a bit pricey but the fit is great, the material allows it to 'breathe', it is very water resistant, and it won't trap moisture like some other cheap covers. (which leads to mold)

Like Huey said, if the car is very dirty don't put the cover on. Some light dust is okay, as the cover is not very TIGHT fitting (unlike my OEM Mazda cover)

covercraft and cal car cover both look very nice, but not really affordable for me right now. sounds like i dont want to go for the $50 cover either, is there anything that anyone can recommend somewhere in the middle?

the car is built for autocross and daily an xB. the 8 sits in the garage all day and gets to play once a month and some weekends just to cruise. i mainly want a car cover to protect it from the sun, itll stay on the car pretty much all the time rain or shine. i'm in hawaii so i only need to worry about rain and sun.

help!