Advertising ideas?

Hi all,

Just wondered if any of you had ideas about the optimal advertising spots on the site... I'm experimenting with various locations and I want to make sure the site stays away from the typical "ad central" that all other car sites tend to use. I also want to make sure all of you know that we will no way turn into a place where you see too many ads. However, we have to admit that ads will help keep our site online for years to come. So, we must deal with it in some fashion...

So, here's what we've got so far. Direct sponsors get the first priority. They are always on the top in the header. Small banner ads, no animation. Done deal. But, I'm wondering about Google. There are so many options I just don't know where to start. Here are the choices. Top banner, side block (that cannot be turned off), and footer banner. They also have options for square ads that will fit nicely on the front page.

Anyway, any of you have experience with this or ideas? Keep in mind I want just enough to pay the bills... this place won't be plastered with ads. We need classy and the least annoying placement..

Thanks!

Mike