via Cox and Forkum
20 hours ago
Comments
What the hell is this graphic doing on this site? Completely inappropriate, ya jackass.
NickNack
That's the only comment I've gotten on the 9/11 graphic (permalink here).
It's a very strange comment, and I'm not sure what NickNack is trying to communicate.
In answer to the question, the graphic is here because I placed it here. It was posted on September 11th, and was the most poignant summary of my feelings for the day. Of all the images from that horrific event, the people jumping to their deaths from the World Trade Center towers still choke me up the most.
About the graphic being inapproprite, this is my site. I, and only I determine what is appropriate. If you don't like what I have to say, that's fine. There's a million other blogs you can go to. There are many blogs I used to read, but no longer visit, because of their views. I didn't go on their site and leave a comment calling them a jackass, I just stopped reading their blogs.
In the end, it comes down to how tolerant you are of other views. I disagree often with Autoguy's views and conclusions, but I still think what he has to say is deserving of consideration. Never exposing yourself to other views and different theories keeps you from expanding yourself. Alas, there are people out there who never will.
If you want to see more graphics like the Never Again one, I suggest a visit to Cox and Forkum.
NickNack
That's the only comment I've gotten on the 9/11 graphic (permalink here).
It's a very strange comment, and I'm not sure what NickNack is trying to communicate.
In answer to the question, the graphic is here because I placed it here. It was posted on September 11th, and was the most poignant summary of my feelings for the day. Of all the images from that horrific event, the people jumping to their deaths from the World Trade Center towers still choke me up the most.
About the graphic being inapproprite, this is my site. I, and only I determine what is appropriate. If you don't like what I have to say, that's fine. There's a million other blogs you can go to. There are many blogs I used to read, but no longer visit, because of their views. I didn't go on their site and leave a comment calling them a jackass, I just stopped reading their blogs.
In the end, it comes down to how tolerant you are of other views. I disagree often with Autoguy's views and conclusions, but I still think what he has to say is deserving of consideration. Never exposing yourself to other views and different theories keeps you from expanding yourself. Alas, there are people out there who never will.
If you want to see more graphics like the Never Again one, I suggest a visit to Cox and Forkum.
Light Reading
There's an article on Netscape Autos about What Makes a Great Car.
If you like to sit in it, even when it's not running--or always turn back to give it one more glance after you've parked it and are walking away--it's a Great Car.
Exactly.
If you like to sit in it, even when it's not running--or always turn back to give it one more glance after you've parked it and are walking away--it's a Great Car.
Exactly.
How To Save Plymouth, Oldsmobile, Mercury
It's too late for Plymouth and Oldsmobile, but there's still hope for Mercury. The division can still be saved before the realities of business drop the guillotine on another marque, and the answer is staring Ford right in the face. It's the 2005 Ford Mustang.
It's a strategy that has served Harley-Davidson well. The hottest segment in motorcycles are cruisers, bikes styled along the lines of the '50's machines. The closer the machine emulates that style, the more successful it is.
Ford has been trying for years to make Mercury work (80's Capri, 90's Capri, the last Cougar), but has never hit the target. The basic premise is to sell a vehicle that is similar to the Ford model, at a higher price. The only way to achieve this that I see is to go in a new direction from what's been done in the past, and it means heading towards the past.
Imagine a Ford 500, except retro-styled. The basic platform remains the same, but the styling is a virtual copy of the Mercury models from the 50's. The cost savings would not be as great as the current models, as the exterior and interior would be different from the Ford, but the potential to make a larger profit is greater also, and they'd be targeting the market group that Mercury is looking for.
Mercury could become the Harley-Davidson of the automotive world. It can't do any worse than what's already been done with the marque.
It's a strategy that has served Harley-Davidson well. The hottest segment in motorcycles are cruisers, bikes styled along the lines of the '50's machines. The closer the machine emulates that style, the more successful it is.
Ford has been trying for years to make Mercury work (80's Capri, 90's Capri, the last Cougar), but has never hit the target. The basic premise is to sell a vehicle that is similar to the Ford model, at a higher price. The only way to achieve this that I see is to go in a new direction from what's been done in the past, and it means heading towards the past.
Imagine a Ford 500, except retro-styled. The basic platform remains the same, but the styling is a virtual copy of the Mercury models from the 50's. The cost savings would not be as great as the current models, as the exterior and interior would be different from the Ford, but the potential to make a larger profit is greater also, and they'd be targeting the market group that Mercury is looking for.
Mercury could become the Harley-Davidson of the automotive world. It can't do any worse than what's already been done with the marque.
Maybe, Just Maybe
Autoblog has actually seen a Ford 500, and commented on the styling. Apparently it actually does stand out, and that's good news. Ford could really use a boost, and it's really an advanced vehicle (AWD and CVT) that probably deserves praise. Of course, an enthusiast is going to notice a new vehicle, the real test is how the general public percieves the vehicle. It certainly won't have the impact of something like a Chrysler 300 or Dodge Magnum.
Return Of The King?
Toyota's new advertising slogan is Moving Forward, and while it lacks a certain flair, it's still acceptable. The Toyota website has had a slight redesign to go with the new slogan, and there's a new feature there, PlanetKaisen. Kaisen is Toyota's way of doing business, and it roughly translates to continual improvement. Nothing really revolutionary there, but if you go to the site and take the Kaisen test, one of the questions is truly thought provoking...
Toyota enthusiasts have longed for the day when Supra will once again roll in America. Not content with the current performance vehicles in the Toyota lineup, like Celica GT-S and Matrix XRS, Toyota loyalists alway want more. When was the last year Supra was built and sold in the U.S.?
I think it's a hint that the Supra is returning, finally. There's no hard evidence yet, but I'm leaning towards a debut next year, probably as an '06 model.
By the way, the answer is 1996, and I scored a 9 out of 10 on the quiz.
What's Happening To Ford?
It's 1983, and Ford introduces the new Thunderbird. Sleek, aerodynamic, and different from everything else on the road, it signals the beginning of a styling tour de force from the Blue Oval. The next year Ford brings out the Tempo, once again a sleek, stylish design. 1986 marks the high point in Ford design with the debut of the Taurus, still one of the best looking sedans ever made.
Forward to the nineties, and you can see Ford's designs start to lose their direction. Ford attempts to regain the initiative with it's new edge styling, but it's a half-hearted effort that only really shines on the Focus.
Now it's the 2K's, and what are we getting from Ford? New grilles that will differentiate each of Ford's three lines, and a strange desire to have every model's name start with the same letter as the division. Instead of keeping well known names, Ford wants each of it's cars to start with the letter "F", so out with Taurus and in with 500.
It boggles my mind that the new 500 is based off a Volvo that has more adventerous styling than Ford's. What used to be a company that dominated the domestic styling arena is now retreating into mediocrity as sales lag behind the competition. Now Chrysler in the king of design, and it's sales are on the rise. Ford is heading down the same road GM took in the 80's, badge engineered cars that all look the same, with only a different grille to distinguish between them.
J Mays, group vice president of design, is not the man who is killing Ford, he's just the one killing the spirit of design that used to make Ford something special.
Forward to the nineties, and you can see Ford's designs start to lose their direction. Ford attempts to regain the initiative with it's new edge styling, but it's a half-hearted effort that only really shines on the Focus.
Now it's the 2K's, and what are we getting from Ford? New grilles that will differentiate each of Ford's three lines, and a strange desire to have every model's name start with the same letter as the division. Instead of keeping well known names, Ford wants each of it's cars to start with the letter "F", so out with Taurus and in with 500.
It boggles my mind that the new 500 is based off a Volvo that has more adventerous styling than Ford's. What used to be a company that dominated the domestic styling arena is now retreating into mediocrity as sales lag behind the competition. Now Chrysler in the king of design, and it's sales are on the rise. Ford is heading down the same road GM took in the 80's, badge engineered cars that all look the same, with only a different grille to distinguish between them.
J Mays, group vice president of design, is not the man who is killing Ford, he's just the one killing the spirit of design that used to make Ford something special.
10th Anniversary
What's an automotive enthusiast in Nashville supposed to do for Labor Day weekend? Why, the 10th anniversary celebration of the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky, of course! Seeing all those Corvette reminds one that GM can still make magic.
If you're going down I-65 through Kentucky, don't pass this museum by. It's well worth the cost of admission, and you can't help but admire the 'Vette.
Today we're going to start with some horsepower again, actual horses! I love holidays!
If you're going down I-65 through Kentucky, don't pass this museum by. It's well worth the cost of admission, and you can't help but admire the 'Vette.
Today we're going to start with some horsepower again, actual horses! I love holidays!
Bad News Is Good News
The headline reads GM Recalss The Troubled Aveo. Sounds like there's something majorly wrong with the car, doesn't it? The recall, "the rear seat belt can lock and become unusable", is not something that is really newsworthy. This is not an "Aveo's spontaneously exploding" type deal here, so why is the Aveo "troubled"?
Why, because "GM has had substantial problems with the Aveo since it went on sale last year. In February, the company ordered dealers not to sell the cars for a week after they were involved in five crashes that caused injuries. GM found that the vehicles weren’t to blame for the wrecks and let dealers begin selling them again." Seems to me like GM was acting more like a company afraid of getting sued , a la Ford Explorer and their Firestone tires, than a car with substantial problems. All this does is damage the reputation of a car that does not deserve it.
Why, because "GM has had substantial problems with the Aveo since it went on sale last year. In February, the company ordered dealers not to sell the cars for a week after they were involved in five crashes that caused injuries. GM found that the vehicles weren’t to blame for the wrecks and let dealers begin selling them again." Seems to me like GM was acting more like a company afraid of getting sued , a la Ford Explorer and their Firestone tires, than a car with substantial problems. All this does is damage the reputation of a car that does not deserve it.
Double Take
Take this Detroit News Headline, SUV glut signals dip in interest. Hmm, makes it seem like the slaes of SUV's are down, right? Autoguy takes from this that SUV sales are down 5-10%. Yet, right in the middle of the article is this gem...
Still, SUV sales growth continues to outpace the overall U.S. new light vehicle market. While industry sales are up 2.4 percent this year, sales of entry-level SUVs are up 4.3 percent, midsize SUV demand is up 6 percent, full-size SUV sales have advanced 3 percent, and demand for luxury SUVs is up 29 percent.
So which is it? Are SUV sales up, flat, or down? They're up, but the Detroit News is trying to convince you the end is near, the party is over, America is finally realizing the error of it's ways and buying smart. It's all wishful thinking, trying to force the facts to fit a preconcieved notion of what vehicles people should buy, instead of letting people decide for themselves. I'm no fan of SUV's, but I'm a big fan of the free market, and this article is a thinly veiled attempt to convince people niot to buy SUV's. So what if the facts get in the way, the SUV must die!
Still, SUV sales growth continues to outpace the overall U.S. new light vehicle market. While industry sales are up 2.4 percent this year, sales of entry-level SUVs are up 4.3 percent, midsize SUV demand is up 6 percent, full-size SUV sales have advanced 3 percent, and demand for luxury SUVs is up 29 percent.
So which is it? Are SUV sales up, flat, or down? They're up, but the Detroit News is trying to convince you the end is near, the party is over, America is finally realizing the error of it's ways and buying smart. It's all wishful thinking, trying to force the facts to fit a preconcieved notion of what vehicles people should buy, instead of letting people decide for themselves. I'm no fan of SUV's, but I'm a big fan of the free market, and this article is a thinly veiled attempt to convince people niot to buy SUV's. So what if the facts get in the way, the SUV must die!
Bluegrass Adventure
Wednesday I took the Escort up to Lexington KY. Took a look at a '92 Toyota Paseo, and I ended up buying her. She needs a new motor, and a new front fender, but is otherwise beautiful. Bobby and I are going to put the new motor in ourselves, a first for me, and the first time he's ever replaced a motor on a FWD car. Should be, well, interesting. We're going on Sunday to pick her up, and will probably stop at the National Corvette Museum, since it's on the way.
Of course, wednesday being a mini-roadtrip, there were a few unusual thing seen along the way. Washington County is a "certified clean county", so I guess someone goes around and verifies that everyone takes a shower each day. Passed a farm with "used cows for sale", but I didn't see abunch of rusty, dented cows with faded paint anywhere, big disappointment.
Of course, wednesday being a mini-roadtrip, there were a few unusual thing seen along the way. Washington County is a "certified clean county", so I guess someone goes around and verifies that everyone takes a shower each day. Passed a farm with "used cows for sale", but I didn't see abunch of rusty, dented cows with faded paint anywhere, big disappointment.
The Gamboy Advance Tune Up
Now you can use your Gamboy Advance as a programmable automotive tuning tool. I guess it's cheaper than a laptop, unless you get a nice used one off eBay.
Mini Madness
Cant afford to get a Mini just yet? Download the Mini Costume and you can act like you own one. Danger: just 'cause you dress your car up like a Mini, don't expect it to handle like a Mini!
Time Travel
Two days ago I received a shipment from eBay. It's a complete set of Car and Driver issues, 91-92. I've been reading each issue, and it's been like a journey back through time. The early nineties were truly a great era for enthusiasts. Just look at what was available.
Mercury Capri XR2 - Not as good as the Miata, but much more attractive now on the used car market.
Geo Metro Convertible - Convertible for those on a tight budget.
Nissan Sentra SE-R - Nissan hits one out of the ballpark.
BMW 325i - The new 3 series were stunners, and still look good today.
Dodge Spirit RT - A nice effort by Chrysler before the LH sedans came out.
Ford Taurus SHO - Proving that a Taurus does not have to be boring.
Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1 - aww yeah.
Nissan NX2000 - A Sentra SE-R for those who want to be more stylish.
Lotus Carlton - Never available here, but wonderfuul nonetheless.
Dodge Stealth and Mitsubishi 3000GT - Mitsubishi really hit their stride in the early nineties.
Lexus SC400 - Lexus makes a car with passion!
BMW 850i - Not great, but still desireable.
Mazda MX-3 - A 1.8 liter V-6, Mazda proves they're still strange.
Lotus Elan - A FWD Lotus? Who would of believed it.
Nissan 300ZX - Still one of the best ever sports cars ever made.
Toyota Celica GTS - Not everyone liked it, but I think the design was the sexiest Celica ever.
GMC Syclone - GMC goes crazy on us. Someone at GM has passion!
Subaru SVX - Never caught on, but Subaru built a true GT car.
Nissan Maxima - When Nissan referred to it as the 4-door sports car, and it was true.
Mazda RX-7 - Mazda took the RX-7 back to it's roots, and made a true sports car.
That's just the '91 issues, but you have to admit that performance was the main course during the early nineties. Before the SUV crowded onto center stage, there were cars in every price range that spoke to the enthusiast. I miss those times.
Mercury Capri XR2 - Not as good as the Miata, but much more attractive now on the used car market.
Geo Metro Convertible - Convertible for those on a tight budget.
Nissan Sentra SE-R - Nissan hits one out of the ballpark.
BMW 325i - The new 3 series were stunners, and still look good today.
Dodge Spirit RT - A nice effort by Chrysler before the LH sedans came out.
Ford Taurus SHO - Proving that a Taurus does not have to be boring.
Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1 - aww yeah.
Nissan NX2000 - A Sentra SE-R for those who want to be more stylish.
Lotus Carlton - Never available here, but wonderfuul nonetheless.
Dodge Stealth and Mitsubishi 3000GT - Mitsubishi really hit their stride in the early nineties.
Lexus SC400 - Lexus makes a car with passion!
BMW 850i - Not great, but still desireable.
Mazda MX-3 - A 1.8 liter V-6, Mazda proves they're still strange.
Lotus Elan - A FWD Lotus? Who would of believed it.
Nissan 300ZX - Still one of the best ever sports cars ever made.
Toyota Celica GTS - Not everyone liked it, but I think the design was the sexiest Celica ever.
GMC Syclone - GMC goes crazy on us. Someone at GM has passion!
Subaru SVX - Never caught on, but Subaru built a true GT car.
Nissan Maxima - When Nissan referred to it as the 4-door sports car, and it was true.
Mazda RX-7 - Mazda took the RX-7 back to it's roots, and made a true sports car.
That's just the '91 issues, but you have to admit that performance was the main course during the early nineties. Before the SUV crowded onto center stage, there were cars in every price range that spoke to the enthusiast. I miss those times.
First SUV
Found out this Sunday my sister bought a new vehicle. It's ugly, but in a spunky way, and with the rubber mat floor instead of carpet, it's definitely going to be useful to her. It's a Honda Element. Not quite sure what to think about it yet.
eBay Gets Better
Finally, eBay lets you search for cars, and will sort by distance. No more having to click on the item to see just how far from me that car is. Now, if they would only let me filter out things like transmission type, I'd be thrilled. Wait, cancel that, about 10% of the vehicles I look at have the trans listed wrong. And don't even get me started about the spelling errors, or things like a Mazda RX-7 with a 4-cylinder rotary engine!
How Much Is $2,000 Worth To You?
Lo and behold, the sales of big SUV's are dropping. People are considering the price of gas when making vehicle purchases, yet overall, SUV sales continue to rise. People are just choosing smaller SUV's, or opting for a V6 instead of a V8. What I find interesting about this article is what some people consider a "gas guzzler.
The first example is someone who wanted a big SUV, then settled for a Toyota 4Runner. Not exactly the most efficient vehicle out there. Then there's the guy who wanted a Toyota Sequoia, but decided on a Toyota Sienna. Why? "It's not a gas guzzler" was the response, and yet the Sienna gets 19 MPG in city driving.
Somehow I think the SUV is going to survive our "fuel crisis", stronger than ever.
The first example is someone who wanted a big SUV, then settled for a Toyota 4Runner. Not exactly the most efficient vehicle out there. Then there's the guy who wanted a Toyota Sequoia, but decided on a Toyota Sienna. Why? "It's not a gas guzzler" was the response, and yet the Sienna gets 19 MPG in city driving.
Somehow I think the SUV is going to survive our "fuel crisis", stronger than ever.
$2.00 Gas Is No Big Deal
$nbsp;While the price of gasoline continues to climb, it could be worse. Consider what drivers in Japan have to contend with...
>Average cost of mandatory driving school is $3,000.
>It is mandatory to obtain a garage or a space to park your car and register that space with the local police station. Average cost id $300 a month.
>Every 2 years your car must undergo a mandatory inspection process that can cost upwards of $3,000.
>Car taxes are due every year and are based on either the weight of the vehicle or the engine displacement. Cost varies from $500-$1,000.
>Average cost of mandatory driving school is $3,000.
>It is mandatory to obtain a garage or a space to park your car and register that space with the local police station. Average cost id $300 a month.
>Every 2 years your car must undergo a mandatory inspection process that can cost upwards of $3,000.
>Car taxes are due every year and are based on either the weight of the vehicle or the engine displacement. Cost varies from $500-$1,000.
It's The End Of The World
There's a Mitsubishi Montero that inhabits one of the parking spaces close to my apartment. It's a damn fine looking vehicle, brutish and big, and it has a presence that many a sedan lacks. You notice the Montero, a predator among the sheepish Camrys and Accords that mull around the parking lot.
It will probably never venture off the paved highways and romp through the wildlands of Tennessee, and logocally a mini-van would have fulfilled the owner's needs better, but logic always fails when it comes to the defining characteristic of the American consumer, passion.
There's a lot of buzz going around about the rising cost of gasoline, and how that's going to impact the automotive world. It's having an effect, but cruising around the auto internet gives you the impression that America's love affair with SUV's is about to collapse and we're all going to start driving Honda Insights and Toyota Prius'. It ain't gonna happen.
Passion has to be thrown into the mix, otherwise we would be in the middle of a mini-van craze rather than an SUV craze. People have been buying SUV's because that is what they want, what they desire. Yes, large SUV's are going to take a hit with rising fuel costs, but to say that the dominance of SUV's has already come to an end is jumping the gun. Smaller, more fuel-efficint models will gain in popularity, the process of basing models off car vs. truck platforms will continue, and mileage across the board will increase.
SUV's are at a bump in the road, not a roadblock.
It will probably never venture off the paved highways and romp through the wildlands of Tennessee, and logocally a mini-van would have fulfilled the owner's needs better, but logic always fails when it comes to the defining characteristic of the American consumer, passion.
There's a lot of buzz going around about the rising cost of gasoline, and how that's going to impact the automotive world. It's having an effect, but cruising around the auto internet gives you the impression that America's love affair with SUV's is about to collapse and we're all going to start driving Honda Insights and Toyota Prius'. It ain't gonna happen.
Passion has to be thrown into the mix, otherwise we would be in the middle of a mini-van craze rather than an SUV craze. People have been buying SUV's because that is what they want, what they desire. Yes, large SUV's are going to take a hit with rising fuel costs, but to say that the dominance of SUV's has already come to an end is jumping the gun. Smaller, more fuel-efficint models will gain in popularity, the process of basing models off car vs. truck platforms will continue, and mileage across the board will increase.
SUV's are at a bump in the road, not a roadblock.
No So Titan?
The sales results for the Nissan Titan are out, and it has not met sales expectations. Instead of capturing 5% of the market, it now stands at about 2.6%. So is the Titan a failure? Absolutely not.
Like anything worth doing, it's going to take time for the Titan to hit it's stride. The truck is supremely capable, and unlike the Toyota Tundra, it's out the gate full-sized and with a V8. So why the weak start?
There's a reason that full-size trucks are the last bastion of the domestic automakers. For a long time there were no other choices. While full-size truck customers seem to be lmore loyal than car buyers, I believe that's more from a lack of choices in the market.
There's nowhere left for the domestic's to hide. The Titan is here, and a new, larger Tundra is on the way. It's not going to be a dramatic changing of fates, but change is on it's way. If the big three think that the loyalty of their customers are going to keep them competitive, then they haven't been paying attention the last thirty years.
Like anything worth doing, it's going to take time for the Titan to hit it's stride. The truck is supremely capable, and unlike the Toyota Tundra, it's out the gate full-sized and with a V8. So why the weak start?
There's a reason that full-size trucks are the last bastion of the domestic automakers. For a long time there were no other choices. While full-size truck customers seem to be lmore loyal than car buyers, I believe that's more from a lack of choices in the market.
There's nowhere left for the domestic's to hide. The Titan is here, and a new, larger Tundra is on the way. It's not going to be a dramatic changing of fates, but change is on it's way. If the big three think that the loyalty of their customers are going to keep them competitive, then they haven't been paying attention the last thirty years.
I Must Be Adopted
My Stepmom has a new vehicle, an Audi A4 Cabriolet.
What does my father thinkof it? It's too small. It doesn't have a large enough trunk. I swear I'm adopted. It's a freakin' convertible, it's meant to be impractical. You drive it to renew your soul, enjoy the weather, and have a blast. My father and I will probably never see eye-to-eye on cars.
What does my father thinkof it? It's too small. It doesn't have a large enough trunk. I swear I'm adopted. It's a freakin' convertible, it's meant to be impractical. You drive it to renew your soul, enjoy the weather, and have a blast. My father and I will probably never see eye-to-eye on cars.
Mitsuless?
Daimler-Chrysler is not going to bail out Mitsubishi, leaving the Japanese company in some trouble. There's speculation that Mitsu might have to pull out of the US market. Chrysler has long relied on Mitsu for engines and platforms, but has never taken advantage of sharing resources like Ford and Mazda have. Chrysler has been distancing itself from Mitsu for a long time, and it now seems that a permenant disconnect is about to take place.
It's too bad Daimler-Chrysler pulled the plug on Plymouth. It would have been an excellent way to help Mitsu out. Just rebadge their cars as Plymouths, the Lancer could be a new Duster, the Galant as a new Breeze, the Eclipse would become a new Laser, the Diamante would make a fine Caravelle, and the Endeavour could become a new Raider. It would give Mitsu more sales outlets, and would have solved Plymouth's problem of being just rebadged Chrysler and Dodge models. Yes, they would have been rebadged Mitsu's, but once sales improved they could have invested in differentiating the two brands.
It's just a pipe-dream, since it's not very likely, but it would be a shame to see Mitsubishi leave.
It's too bad Daimler-Chrysler pulled the plug on Plymouth. It would have been an excellent way to help Mitsu out. Just rebadge their cars as Plymouths, the Lancer could be a new Duster, the Galant as a new Breeze, the Eclipse would become a new Laser, the Diamante would make a fine Caravelle, and the Endeavour could become a new Raider. It would give Mitsu more sales outlets, and would have solved Plymouth's problem of being just rebadged Chrysler and Dodge models. Yes, they would have been rebadged Mitsu's, but once sales improved they could have invested in differentiating the two brands.
It's just a pipe-dream, since it's not very likely, but it would be a shame to see Mitsubishi leave.
Eurotrash
The Detroit Free Press has an article about the high price of gasoline, then compares it to what the Europeans pay.
In the United States last week, gasoline was averaging about $1.76 a gallon for regular unleaded, with some motorists in California paying more than $2.
The average price of gasoline in Britain was $5.38 a gallon, a bargain compared with the Netherlands, where it was $5.69 a gallon. In Germany it was $5.01. The French got away with paying $4.78.
The article is rather condescending, another one of those we're more enlightened than you responses from Europe about America, but who's really being stupid? We're not the ones paying 75% tax on gasoline. Our pices are driven by the free market, not controlled by some government buerocracy.
They simply drive less, take public transportation more, buy more fuel-efficient cars and — get this, Americans — occasionally they’ll walk to the corner to pick up milk rather than drive.
I live in Nashville, and have had to walk "to the corner" to get some milk when my car wasn't running. It's an hour round trip by foot, and unless I'm off from work that day that's just not a realistic way to for me to get some groceries. It's 10 minutes by car, round trip. America is not Europe, and never will be. We're just a bit larger, with more open spaces, and taking a short trip by foot or bicycle is not a reality for most Americans.
Enjoy the price of gasoline. It may be higher than we are used to, but at least it's not artificially inflated 75% by our government.
In the United States last week, gasoline was averaging about $1.76 a gallon for regular unleaded, with some motorists in California paying more than $2.
The average price of gasoline in Britain was $5.38 a gallon, a bargain compared with the Netherlands, where it was $5.69 a gallon. In Germany it was $5.01. The French got away with paying $4.78.
The article is rather condescending, another one of those we're more enlightened than you responses from Europe about America, but who's really being stupid? We're not the ones paying 75% tax on gasoline. Our pices are driven by the free market, not controlled by some government buerocracy.
They simply drive less, take public transportation more, buy more fuel-efficient cars and — get this, Americans — occasionally they’ll walk to the corner to pick up milk rather than drive.
I live in Nashville, and have had to walk "to the corner" to get some milk when my car wasn't running. It's an hour round trip by foot, and unless I'm off from work that day that's just not a realistic way to for me to get some groceries. It's 10 minutes by car, round trip. America is not Europe, and never will be. We're just a bit larger, with more open spaces, and taking a short trip by foot or bicycle is not a reality for most Americans.
Enjoy the price of gasoline. It may be higher than we are used to, but at least it's not artificially inflated 75% by our government.
Small Sube
Every car deserves it's 15 minutes of fame on the web. Even the Subaru 360.
Check out Subaru's little wonder, the Subaru 360.
Check out Subaru's little wonder, the Subaru 360.
Lost Lexus
If someone offered me a free Lexus, any model I wanted, what would be my choice? An LS400? Too big. Surely the new SC430 convertible? Nope. Here's the model I would choose.
Yes, the ES250 with a 5-speed manual transmission. Why would I choose something that's not really even a true Lexus, just a dressed up Camry? It's all a matter of size. Short, compact, it's the smallest Lexus available that has some useful room with it. Choosing a 4-door vehicle is not something I would normally do, but I can't help but admire this car. I've always liked the underdog, and the ES250 fits that desription. Besides, souping that car up would be a blast, a true sleeper prowling the highways.
Yes, the ES250 with a 5-speed manual transmission. Why would I choose something that's not really even a true Lexus, just a dressed up Camry? It's all a matter of size. Short, compact, it's the smallest Lexus available that has some useful room with it. Choosing a 4-door vehicle is not something I would normally do, but I can't help but admire this car. I've always liked the underdog, and the ES250 fits that desription. Besides, souping that car up would be a blast, a true sleeper prowling the highways.
Designer Genes
Platform sharing, it's all the rage in the automotive industry. It keeps development costs lower, and allows a manufacturer to bringa product to market quicker. Some companies make it work fabulously. Mitsubishi in the 90's took the lowly Mirage, and sprouted the Galant, Eclipse, Diamante, and 3000GT from it. I can't remember a review saying any of them felt like a bigger Mirage. Toyota has made it work with the Camry/Highlander/Solara/Lexus ES, and Lexus RX300/330. When everything goes well, it's a wonderful process, but sometimes companies falter, badly.
The classic example is the Cadillac Cimarron, basically a dressed up Chevrolet Cavalier, and it was a dismal failure. GM seems to have learned their lesson, at least partly, as their shared models are a lot more distinct than they used to be. But sometimes, I think the car genes just won't allow you to hid the fact that two cars are close relatives.
Pontiac's Aztek is like the Quasimodo of the automotive world, a horribly disfigured model that blemishes a marque that usually has some of the best looking models in GM's lineup. The Aztek's mechanicals are also the underpinning of the Buick Rendezvous, and somehow Buick got the styling right, well almost. From the B-Pillar forward it's a sleek, modern, and graceful design. Pleasing to the eye, it embodies the typical Buick flair, until you get to the C-Pillar.
Everything then goes wrong, and it looks like one designer did the front, while a less skilled subordinate finished the rear. It's the Aztek gene, it has to be. It reared it's ugly head and gave the Rendezvous a hump on it's back, just like it's brother's. At least it spared the face this time.
The classic example is the Cadillac Cimarron, basically a dressed up Chevrolet Cavalier, and it was a dismal failure. GM seems to have learned their lesson, at least partly, as their shared models are a lot more distinct than they used to be. But sometimes, I think the car genes just won't allow you to hid the fact that two cars are close relatives.
Pontiac's Aztek is like the Quasimodo of the automotive world, a horribly disfigured model that blemishes a marque that usually has some of the best looking models in GM's lineup. The Aztek's mechanicals are also the underpinning of the Buick Rendezvous, and somehow Buick got the styling right, well almost. From the B-Pillar forward it's a sleek, modern, and graceful design. Pleasing to the eye, it embodies the typical Buick flair, until you get to the C-Pillar.
Everything then goes wrong, and it looks like one designer did the front, while a less skilled subordinate finished the rear. It's the Aztek gene, it has to be. It reared it's ugly head and gave the Rendezvous a hump on it's back, just like it's brother's. At least it spared the face this time.
Standard Catalog
If you're looking for excellent model-by-model information on American cars, There's two books that might interest you. Standard Catalog of American 1946-1975 and Standard Catalog of American Cars 1976-1999 are superb sources of information. But, when you get to Standard Catalog of Import Cars 1946-2002, the series goes way downhill.
1976-1999 is 969 pages, for $34.95, and covers each manufacturer year by year. Imported Cars has 909 pages for $32.95, with each manufacturer covered, but not year by year. Take Toyota for example. You get 1978-83, then 1984-90, then from 1991 to 2001 it's year by year. Why the change? Because this is actually the second edition, with expanded information. Unfortunately, they didn't go back and expand the information from 1946-1990, just added the information from 1991-2002.
While it's still the best resource out there on import cars, to take a major manufacturer like Toyota and lump all the models between 1984 to 1990 under one entry is inexcusable. That the data is incomplete is just another slap in the face. Apparently Nissan didn't have a Stanza or Sentra until 1991, the first time those two cars are mentioned. The publisher has had eleven years to make this book match the standards set by the other editions, but nothing has really changed.
While I recommend the Standard Catalogs for the American models, the Imported edition falls short of being a "detailed listings of autos imported into the U.S. from 1946-2002", as it says on the cover. It still has a lot of information, but don't buy it thinking it's as comprehensive as the other editions in the series.
1976-1999 is 969 pages, for $34.95, and covers each manufacturer year by year. Imported Cars has 909 pages for $32.95, with each manufacturer covered, but not year by year. Take Toyota for example. You get 1978-83, then 1984-90, then from 1991 to 2001 it's year by year. Why the change? Because this is actually the second edition, with expanded information. Unfortunately, they didn't go back and expand the information from 1946-1990, just added the information from 1991-2002.
While it's still the best resource out there on import cars, to take a major manufacturer like Toyota and lump all the models between 1984 to 1990 under one entry is inexcusable. That the data is incomplete is just another slap in the face. Apparently Nissan didn't have a Stanza or Sentra until 1991, the first time those two cars are mentioned. The publisher has had eleven years to make this book match the standards set by the other editions, but nothing has really changed.
While I recommend the Standard Catalogs for the American models, the Imported edition falls short of being a "detailed listings of autos imported into the U.S. from 1946-2002", as it says on the cover. It still has a lot of information, but don't buy it thinking it's as comprehensive as the other editions in the series.
There's No Future In Futura
Looks like Ford can't use the the Futura name for it's upcoming Taurus replacement. Gee, I dunno, what's wrong with calling it Taurus? Oh, that's right, it doesn't start with "F"! Yeah, let's take a well known brand name, and replace it with a name from the 50's that just sounds old and out of date because some marketing genius decided the car will sell better if the name starts with "F".
Someone in Dearborn just doesn't understand the value of an established name. If Honda was to rename the Civic so it would start with an "H", or Toyota decided the Corolla needed a name that started with "T", they would be abandoning over 30 years of brand recognition. The Taurus name has been part of the automotive landscape since 1986. It's not something Ford should just abandon. And Detroit wonders why people are not as brand loyal as they used to be?
Someone in Dearborn just doesn't understand the value of an established name. If Honda was to rename the Civic so it would start with an "H", or Toyota decided the Corolla needed a name that started with "T", they would be abandoning over 30 years of brand recognition. The Taurus name has been part of the automotive landscape since 1986. It's not something Ford should just abandon. And Detroit wonders why people are not as brand loyal as they used to be?
Labels?
Just read an article about how auto manufacturers define consumers into generations, and apparetly I'm a generation X'er. That's anyone age 26 to 37, then there's Gen Y (6 to 25 years old ), and apparently we're hard to market to. Here's how we're defined. See if you agree..
Generation Y
Who they are: Often called echo boomers, they crave technology, music and the Internet and they remain loyal to brands. But as an emerging consumer group, they remain difficult to label, though they are the savviest of all shoppers.
What they drive: Used cars and trucks, Mitsubishi, VW.
Generation X
Who they are: Raised on "Beverly Hills, 90210" and Grunge Rock, they shop at The Gap and Urban Outfitters. Difficult to market because they defy labels.
What they drive: Pickups, Subaru.
Generation Y
Who they are: Often called echo boomers, they crave technology, music and the Internet and they remain loyal to brands. But as an emerging consumer group, they remain difficult to label, though they are the savviest of all shoppers.
What they drive: Used cars and trucks, Mitsubishi, VW.
Generation X
Who they are: Raised on "Beverly Hills, 90210" and Grunge Rock, they shop at The Gap and Urban Outfitters. Difficult to market because they defy labels.
What they drive: Pickups, Subaru.
Even better Than The Last Post
And I thought the Metro has a confusing name history? Check out the Pontiac LeMans. Germany called it the Opel Kadett, the UK had the Vauxhall Astra, Canada couldn't decide, so it was first the Passport Optima then the Asuna SE/GT, and Kore'a's Daewoo thought Nexia was mighty fine name, but then again Celia worked too. Schizophrenia, thy name is General Motors.
CheGeSuzHolPon
It's amazing how many names one car can have. The Chevrolet Sprint became the Geo Metro, and then the Chevrolet Metro when Geo was discontinued, but it's also the Suzuki Swift. In Canada it was the Pontiac Firefly and Suzuki Forsa. Meanwhile, across the Pacific Ocean, Japan called it the Suzuki Cultus, and Australians knew it as the Holden Barina. Is anyone else confused yet?
Link Of The Day
I don't know how I didn't run across this site earlier, 2.6Liter, loads of info on the Mitsubishi Starion and Chrysler Conquest.
Link Of The Day
Every now and then, GM manages to create something magical, letting their engineers unleash an automobile that has little pratical value, but ignites the souls of enthusiast everywhere. If you haven't heard of the Lotus Vauxhall Carlton/Opel Omega, check out James Waddington's site. These cars were like a Chevy Impala( the Caprice-based one) on steroids, a fiery beast that blazed across the highways of Europe like Attila the Hun in automotive form.
Wrenching
I'm not much of a mechanic. While I'm mechanically inclined (my grandfather was a mechanic for White Truck in Cleveland his whole life), it's not a skill that was passed down to me by my father. That's changing though. My best friend Bobby is teaching me the basic skills, and the Corolla just received new plugs, wires, and distributor, courtesy of me. The engine runs better, considering that before you could detach the plug wire on the #4 cylinder and the engine didn't even notice. She's still reluctant to start, but then she's carburated, so that'll be something else I can learn about, though the exhaust system is next on the list.
Wrenching on your car, then seeing that there has been a noticeable improvement, connects you even more deeply with the machine. Not only is it something that you drive, it becomes you own personal creation, a work of art where your hands were involved in the process instead of an object that you admire. Getting grime under your fingertps, wiping the sweat off your brow, then the fateful turning of the ignition to see if it worked. It's like drilling for oil, but with a spiritual instead of a monetary payoff.
Wrenching on your car, then seeing that there has been a noticeable improvement, connects you even more deeply with the machine. Not only is it something that you drive, it becomes you own personal creation, a work of art where your hands were involved in the process instead of an object that you admire. Getting grime under your fingertps, wiping the sweat off your brow, then the fateful turning of the ignition to see if it worked. It's like drilling for oil, but with a spiritual instead of a monetary payoff.
The Top Five
After weeks of deliberation, I have finally narrowed down the list of Cars I Must Own. Five different cars, from a group of over 50 candidates. The winners are...
Microcar : Ford Festiva - Mazda mechanicals, built by Kia, and sold by Ford, the Festiva is one of the few microcars available here in the U.S. While the Chevrolet Sprint Turbo and Subaru Justy are worthwhile options, there's just something about the Festiva that strikes a chord with me. The Mini Cooper is another alternative, but there's no way I'll be ble to afford one anytime soon. If cost was no object, the Honda Beat would win this category, but alas, I haven't won the lottery yet.
Hatchback : Pontiac LeMans - Enginerred by Opel, built by Daewoo, and sold by Pontiac, the LeMans is my choice for hatchback to have. There's a ton of choices, with the likes of the VW GTI, Dodge Colt, Toyota Corolla FX-16, Honda Civic, and Daihatsu Charade, this is my nod to the European manufacturers. I'd love to take one of these and put Opel Kadett body pieces on it. The styling is funky, and it will take some work to get one where I would want it, but the LeMans is surely a car you don't see every day.
Sporty Coupe : Isuzu Impulse - Turbocharged, all-wheel-drive, with suspension designed by Lotus, how can you not like this car. Thee's a soft spot in my heart for Isuzu, and while the Diamond Star trio adn Celica All-Trac are attractive alternatives, the Impulse wins hands down. I lusted after this car when it was new, and that fire still burns in my heart. I gotta have one!
GT Car : Mitsubishi Starion - This was probably the hardest choice. The superb Nissan 300ZX came a close second, and of course there's Toyota's fabulous Supra, but the Starion is the most unique of the choices. While it doesn't come with a six-cylinder engine, the styling puts Ford's New Edge to shame. The Chrysler Conquest is the same car, but if I have the option, it will be a Starion.
True Sports Car : Toyota MR2 - This was a foregone conclusion from the start. While the Miata is convertible, and a blast to drive, the MR2 is the car I want more than any other. Mid-engine design, nimble and quick, a true driver's car in every aspect. She's out there, somewhere, just waiting for the right time to present herself to me.
What about the three cars I own right now? The Probe is a birthday gift for my Nephew Dorian on his sixteenth birthday. There's a lot of work to do to her, but I think 15 years should be enough time to get her ready. The Corolla and the Escort will be daily drivers, cars I won't be afraid to put miles on and haul groceries in.
Most people that make a list like this usually list cars like Ferrarris and Porsches. While they're the paragons of automotive performance, and eventually I could own one, why bother. The enjoyment of driving is not determined by how expensive the vehicle is, how fast it gets to 60 mph, or how high the skidpad number is. It's a union between a man and his machine, and's that something that can be achieved with any car.
Microcar : Ford Festiva - Mazda mechanicals, built by Kia, and sold by Ford, the Festiva is one of the few microcars available here in the U.S. While the Chevrolet Sprint Turbo and Subaru Justy are worthwhile options, there's just something about the Festiva that strikes a chord with me. The Mini Cooper is another alternative, but there's no way I'll be ble to afford one anytime soon. If cost was no object, the Honda Beat would win this category, but alas, I haven't won the lottery yet.
Hatchback : Pontiac LeMans - Enginerred by Opel, built by Daewoo, and sold by Pontiac, the LeMans is my choice for hatchback to have. There's a ton of choices, with the likes of the VW GTI, Dodge Colt, Toyota Corolla FX-16, Honda Civic, and Daihatsu Charade, this is my nod to the European manufacturers. I'd love to take one of these and put Opel Kadett body pieces on it. The styling is funky, and it will take some work to get one where I would want it, but the LeMans is surely a car you don't see every day.
Sporty Coupe : Isuzu Impulse - Turbocharged, all-wheel-drive, with suspension designed by Lotus, how can you not like this car. Thee's a soft spot in my heart for Isuzu, and while the Diamond Star trio adn Celica All-Trac are attractive alternatives, the Impulse wins hands down. I lusted after this car when it was new, and that fire still burns in my heart. I gotta have one!
GT Car : Mitsubishi Starion - This was probably the hardest choice. The superb Nissan 300ZX came a close second, and of course there's Toyota's fabulous Supra, but the Starion is the most unique of the choices. While it doesn't come with a six-cylinder engine, the styling puts Ford's New Edge to shame. The Chrysler Conquest is the same car, but if I have the option, it will be a Starion.
True Sports Car : Toyota MR2 - This was a foregone conclusion from the start. While the Miata is convertible, and a blast to drive, the MR2 is the car I want more than any other. Mid-engine design, nimble and quick, a true driver's car in every aspect. She's out there, somewhere, just waiting for the right time to present herself to me.
What about the three cars I own right now? The Probe is a birthday gift for my Nephew Dorian on his sixteenth birthday. There's a lot of work to do to her, but I think 15 years should be enough time to get her ready. The Corolla and the Escort will be daily drivers, cars I won't be afraid to put miles on and haul groceries in.
Most people that make a list like this usually list cars like Ferrarris and Porsches. While they're the paragons of automotive performance, and eventually I could own one, why bother. The enjoyment of driving is not determined by how expensive the vehicle is, how fast it gets to 60 mph, or how high the skidpad number is. It's a union between a man and his machine, and's that something that can be achieved with any car.
Link Of The Day
Yes, there are actually performance parts for the Ford Festiva. Check out Festiva Motorsport.
Link Of The Day
Remember the Chevy Chevette? It was also sold as an Opel, Vauxhall, Holden, and Isuzu. Get more info at GM's T-Car.
More Minis
I like small cars. Geo Metro's, Ford Festiva's, Subaru Justy's, there's just something about a minimalist auto. Although they need better engines, something with a little more oomph, upgrade their suspensions and wheels and you have your own little pocket rocket. Speed is a relative thing, and taking a Festiva around a corne at the limits of the tire's grip is just pure entertainment. You don't need the most powerful car out there to have some fun, and less is more when it comes to handling.
That's probably the reason I like the Mini so much. It has a good engine, great handling, and from all accounts a blast to drive. It's been very popular, and hopefully indicates a trend in the American market towards more fun cars. I've had enough of SUV's, but I don't hate 'em cause they get poor mileage. they're just too big, get in the way, and handle like a beached whale.
There is another small car out there that I wish was available here in the U.S. It's the Ford Ka.
Of course, to be a success, it would need to be marketed like the Mini, meaning dealers would have to treat perspective owners differently than their regular buyers. If the whole experience isn't fun, and they don't realize the customer is there to buy a small car because they want one, not because it's all they can afford, it just won't happen, and I seriously doubt most Ford dealers are capable of making that happen. It's nice to dream though.
That's probably the reason I like the Mini so much. It has a good engine, great handling, and from all accounts a blast to drive. It's been very popular, and hopefully indicates a trend in the American market towards more fun cars. I've had enough of SUV's, but I don't hate 'em cause they get poor mileage. they're just too big, get in the way, and handle like a beached whale.
There is another small car out there that I wish was available here in the U.S. It's the Ford Ka.
Of course, to be a success, it would need to be marketed like the Mini, meaning dealers would have to treat perspective owners differently than their regular buyers. If the whole experience isn't fun, and they don't realize the customer is there to buy a small car because they want one, not because it's all they can afford, it just won't happen, and I seriously doubt most Ford dealers are capable of making that happen. It's nice to dream though.
Driving From The Desk
Who says you're tied to your desk at work. Mine has it's own instrument cluster now!
More Truth In Advertising
If you're going to offer something crappy on eBay, it's good to have a sense of humor.
ENGINE WILL NOT QUIT. NEEDS A MUFFLER. BODY HAS NOT AGED GRACEFULLY. THANKFULLY IT IS THE SAME COLOR AS DUCT TAPE. RADIO DOES NOT WORK. SOMETIMES THE ELECTRIC WINDOWS WORK - SOMETIMES THEY DON'T. THE SLIDING DOOR ONLY CURRENTLY OPENS FROM THE INSIDE. GREAT BUMPER STICKERS INCLUDED. ONE TIRE HAS A SLOW LEAK. SOMETIMES THE HATCHBACK DOOR DOES NOT OPEN.
ENGINE WILL NOT QUIT. NEEDS A MUFFLER. BODY HAS NOT AGED GRACEFULLY. THANKFULLY IT IS THE SAME COLOR AS DUCT TAPE. RADIO DOES NOT WORK. SOMETIMES THE ELECTRIC WINDOWS WORK - SOMETIMES THEY DON'T. THE SLIDING DOOR ONLY CURRENTLY OPENS FROM THE INSIDE. GREAT BUMPER STICKERS INCLUDED. ONE TIRE HAS A SLOW LEAK. SOMETIMES THE HATCHBACK DOOR DOES NOT OPEN.
Caveat Emptor
Sadly, it seems, it will always be buyer beware in the automotive repair world. Yesterday I tool the Corolla to see what was needed to get the exhaust repaired. She needs a new downpipe and muffler, nothing special, and something that shouldn't be too expensive.
The tech didn't speak much english, but he showed what needed to be replaced. He tried to get the boss to take a look at what needed to be replaced, but he ignored him as he checked to see if he had some parts in stock. I found out s0on just what he was looking for. He went into his office and typed up my work order. The grand total was $626.02!
This was, of course, because he thought I was stupid enough to take him at his word. You see, I didn't have a catalytic converter, and that was a required part. That was the part he was checking for, since it is the most expensive piece of the exhaust system. Instead of just a down pipe and muffler, I was supposed to believe I needed everything from the downpipe back replaced.
Thinking about it now, exhaust systems are probably the perfect way to test the integrity of whomever you are contemplating servicing your vehicle. Get yourself a screwdriver and flashlight. If something's rusted through, it needs to be replaced. If it looks suspect, tap it with the screw driver. If you create a hole, that needs replaced too. Then go see your mechanic and see what he thinks needs fixing. You might be suprised.
The tech didn't speak much english, but he showed what needed to be replaced. He tried to get the boss to take a look at what needed to be replaced, but he ignored him as he checked to see if he had some parts in stock. I found out s0on just what he was looking for. He went into his office and typed up my work order. The grand total was $626.02!
This was, of course, because he thought I was stupid enough to take him at his word. You see, I didn't have a catalytic converter, and that was a required part. That was the part he was checking for, since it is the most expensive piece of the exhaust system. Instead of just a down pipe and muffler, I was supposed to believe I needed everything from the downpipe back replaced.
Thinking about it now, exhaust systems are probably the perfect way to test the integrity of whomever you are contemplating servicing your vehicle. Get yourself a screwdriver and flashlight. If something's rusted through, it needs to be replaced. If it looks suspect, tap it with the screw driver. If you create a hole, that needs replaced too. Then go see your mechanic and see what he thinks needs fixing. You might be suprised.
Karma's A Bitch
Last year my best friend Bobby was purchasing a 1987 BMW 3-series coupe in excellent condition. The lady that was selling it lives in the same apartment complex, and wanted $700.00, and in two weeks Bobby would have had the money. She agreed to let Bobby buy the car, and went ahead and let him drive it while he came up with the dough. That lasted a week.
In that week Bobby fully deytailed that BMW, and replaced the power window switches that had gone bad. The car looked brand new. Bobby had poured his heart and soul into that beemer, and it showed, which turned out to be a bad thing. The owner noticed how much better the car looked, and decided to sell it to someone else. She came over and took the keys, and sold it the next day. Bobby was crushed. We're not sure how much she got for it, but it was enough for her to buy a later model 3-series for $3,000.
Skip ahead to now, and she's got a for sale sign up in her BMW, $3,200 firm. The reason it's for sale is that there's a problem with the engine, and no one's been able to correct it. So, now she wants more than she paid for a car that has a known problem that will prpbably cost a bundle to get fixed. We've let the people in the apartments around us know there's a problem with that beemer, and just how much she originally paid for it. As a public service, mind you.
In that week Bobby fully deytailed that BMW, and replaced the power window switches that had gone bad. The car looked brand new. Bobby had poured his heart and soul into that beemer, and it showed, which turned out to be a bad thing. The owner noticed how much better the car looked, and decided to sell it to someone else. She came over and took the keys, and sold it the next day. Bobby was crushed. We're not sure how much she got for it, but it was enough for her to buy a later model 3-series for $3,000.
Skip ahead to now, and she's got a for sale sign up in her BMW, $3,200 firm. The reason it's for sale is that there's a problem with the engine, and no one's been able to correct it. So, now she wants more than she paid for a car that has a known problem that will prpbably cost a bundle to get fixed. We've let the people in the apartments around us know there's a problem with that beemer, and just how much she originally paid for it. As a public service, mind you.
Luck O' The Irish
Tuesday I went to secure a duplicate title for my Kawasaki Zephyr. After eleven years the original title had gone missing, hence the replacement. Normally you go in, they take your Drivers License and VIN, and five dollars and five seconds later you have a crisp new title. Problem was I hadn't registered the bike since '96, when she stopped running. Apparently they had just received instructions that titles not in the computer would have to be retrieved by another department, and then mailed out, a process taking two weeks. She looked at my license and asked if I had come all the way from Columbia (45 minutes south of Nashville).
I hadn't, but since the address on license hasn't been updated with my new one, I said I had. She got on the phone to her supervisor, talked for a minute, ended the conversation with "So you never told me about the new memo until I'm done with this title.", and told me she would be right back. After all these years, being friendly to the people at the DMV had finally paid off! The DMV was doing a favor for me.
She came back in about ten minutes with a photocopy of my registration form from '94, when I first registered the bike in Tennessee, a big grin on her face. She pointed to the signature at the bottom. Eight years ago she worked at another office, and was the one who processed my title transfer from Ohio!
When I moved here, I had just made the final payment on my bike loan, so my new Tennessee title was the first one that had me as the owner and not Phoenix National Bank. It's fitting that she was there when the bike truly becam mine, and now that I was selling the bike, she was there at the end.
I hadn't, but since the address on license hasn't been updated with my new one, I said I had. She got on the phone to her supervisor, talked for a minute, ended the conversation with "So you never told me about the new memo until I'm done with this title.", and told me she would be right back. After all these years, being friendly to the people at the DMV had finally paid off! The DMV was doing a favor for me.
She came back in about ten minutes with a photocopy of my registration form from '94, when I first registered the bike in Tennessee, a big grin on her face. She pointed to the signature at the bottom. Eight years ago she worked at another office, and was the one who processed my title transfer from Ohio!
When I moved here, I had just made the final payment on my bike loan, so my new Tennessee title was the first one that had me as the owner and not Phoenix National Bank. It's fitting that she was there when the bike truly becam mine, and now that I was selling the bike, she was there at the end.
Corolla Report
My new Corolla is, by no means, perfect. It needs exhaust work, something I knew beforehand, but there's a few details the previous owner left out. The car has been repainted, and while decent, it's not great. Apparently instead of sanding down the old paint, it was just painted over. There is no radio, like the eBay ad said, but it didn't mention that they had to break the plastic bezel around the radio. The cupholder, cigarette lighter and ashtray, and storage bin have all been removed, and while I have the parts, the bezel itself will have to be replaced. "It has a crack in the dash" somehow equates to four cracks in the dash, so I'll be investing in a dash cover soon.
That's all the bad stuff, but I think her good points outweigh the bad points. She's a Toyota, for one, so dependability shouldn't be aproblem. She drives nice, handles well, and looks good doing it. With a little time, effort, and money, she should be just about perfect!
That's all the bad stuff, but I think her good points outweigh the bad points. She's a Toyota, for one, so dependability shouldn't be aproblem. She drives nice, handles well, and looks good doing it. With a little time, effort, and money, she should be just about perfect!
Now What?
Now that I own a Toyota Corolla, am I required to start calling it an AE92? How about Trueno, or Levin. Gosh, I don't want people to think I'm not cool, I better start using the Japanese terminology!
Nah, I think I'll call it just what it is, a Toyota Corolla SR5.
Nah, I think I'll call it just what it is, a Toyota Corolla SR5.
Link Of The Day
Acura came onto the U.S. car scene in 1986, warming the hearts of enthusiasts everywhere with the wonderous Civic-based Integra. Celebrate the first generation of Integras at First Integration.
The Calling
She sits silently, waiting. The wind gently caresses her body, but it carries with it a chill. Change is coming, whispers the breeze, and so she prepares. Without a sound she reaches out, feeling for the one who will be next. She knows not his name, nor even what he looks like, but relentlessly she searches. She will find him.
He feels the call, first as a tingle, a tickle in the ribs. The feeling is subtle, barely noticeable over everyday emotions, yet unmistakable. He's felt it before, but until recently was not able to recognize what it truly was. The pieces came together like some mystical jigsaw puzzle, and he could feel her looking for him. She was calling, and he had to answer.
Carefully she guided him, revealing the path bit by bit. The process was deliberate, seemingly at a snail's pace, yet inexorable. It took seven days before he saw her, an ensemble of ones and zeroes, a digital representation of her physical form. Seven more days would pass before he was confident she was the one, her voice becoming more distinct with each passing day.
Fifteen years she had waited, watched, wondered where her path would lead. Now she knew. And she smiled.
For the last two weeks I have know that a car was coming my way, and tonight it happened. A 1989 Toyota Corolla SR5, and she's mine. Sleek, sexy, a vision in black. I can't wait to pick her up!
He feels the call, first as a tingle, a tickle in the ribs. The feeling is subtle, barely noticeable over everyday emotions, yet unmistakable. He's felt it before, but until recently was not able to recognize what it truly was. The pieces came together like some mystical jigsaw puzzle, and he could feel her looking for him. She was calling, and he had to answer.
Carefully she guided him, revealing the path bit by bit. The process was deliberate, seemingly at a snail's pace, yet inexorable. It took seven days before he saw her, an ensemble of ones and zeroes, a digital representation of her physical form. Seven more days would pass before he was confident she was the one, her voice becoming more distinct with each passing day.
Fifteen years she had waited, watched, wondered where her path would lead. Now she knew. And she smiled.
For the last two weeks I have know that a car was coming my way, and tonight it happened. A 1989 Toyota Corolla SR5, and she's mine. Sleek, sexy, a vision in black. I can't wait to pick her up!
Link Of The Day
Known more for their beautiful sedans, Audi also imported a coupe, the car that started the Quattro legend.
Link Of The Day
Like the music in Mitsubishi's commercials but don't know who makes the song? Mitsubishi's got you covered.
Link Of The Day
It may be the end of the line for Oldsmobile, but the marque still lives on through the internet.
The Japanese Decade
The Seventies was the beginning of the rise of the Japanese automobile manufacturers in the US. The Oil Crisis had caught the Big Three unprepared, whil ethe Japanese were selling exactlt what was needed in the changed market conditions. Performance-wise, things were not so bright. Toyota had it's newly introduced Celica, which was more show then go, but by the end of the decade there was the Mazda RX-7, Toyota Celica Supra, and the fabulous Datsun 280ZX, all harbingers of what the future held.
The eighties was when the Japanese really started to expand their horizons, and performance took a huge leap forward. It was also the decade that front wheel drive started to dominate drivetrains, which led to the introduction of the MR2, a mid-engined sports car. The specialty coupes like the Celica and Prelude gained more horsepower and better handling, and higher prices. The GT cars like the Supra and 300ZX were approaching Corvette territory by the end of the decade.
It was the nineties where the Japanese really showed their prowess in sports cars. Nissan kicked it off with the new Z, arguably one of the best GT cars ever made. Mazda and Toyota took the RX-7 and Supra beyond their GT roots into true sports car territory. Honda had the coup de grace though, with it's fabulous NSX, the first Japanes exotic.
The specialty coupes were reaching the performance levels of the previous decade's GT class, and there was an explosion of different models. Long timers like the Celica, 240SX, and Prelude were joined by the Probe/MX-6, Talon/Eclipse/Laser, and the Subaru XT. Along with the jump in performance level came an increase in price, resulting in a swarm of cheaper coupes. The pack included the Geo Storm/Isuzu Impulse, the Toyota Paseo, Nissan NX/200SX, and the wonderful Mazda MX-3 with a 1.8 liter V6!
It was also the decade that the roadster made a well deserved return with Mazda's Miata, a sensation when it was introduced. Truly it was the decade of the Japanese sports car.
Now we're in the 2K's, and it's rather boring on the performance front. Sedans are the new performance vehicles, while coupes have faded. Nissan has dropped the 200SX, 240SX, and there is no longer a 2-Door Sentra. Mazda no longer makes the MX-6 or MX-3. Toyota still has the Celica, but the Paseo and Supra are history. Mitsubishi's 3000GT went the way of the dinosaurs, and Subaru and Suzuki don't even make any coupes.
Yes, the Lancer and the WRX are impressive performance vehicles for the price, but they're still sedans. A sports car comes with only two doors, not four. At least Scion is bringing out the tC, but I fear that coupes are an endangered species in the automotive market. Young people are leaning more towards SUV's instead of sports cars as automotive expressions, but when the SUV bubble finally bursts (seen gas prices lately?), will the sports car make a comeback? I can only hope. I miss the nineties.
The eighties was when the Japanese really started to expand their horizons, and performance took a huge leap forward. It was also the decade that front wheel drive started to dominate drivetrains, which led to the introduction of the MR2, a mid-engined sports car. The specialty coupes like the Celica and Prelude gained more horsepower and better handling, and higher prices. The GT cars like the Supra and 300ZX were approaching Corvette territory by the end of the decade.
It was the nineties where the Japanese really showed their prowess in sports cars. Nissan kicked it off with the new Z, arguably one of the best GT cars ever made. Mazda and Toyota took the RX-7 and Supra beyond their GT roots into true sports car territory. Honda had the coup de grace though, with it's fabulous NSX, the first Japanes exotic.
The specialty coupes were reaching the performance levels of the previous decade's GT class, and there was an explosion of different models. Long timers like the Celica, 240SX, and Prelude were joined by the Probe/MX-6, Talon/Eclipse/Laser, and the Subaru XT. Along with the jump in performance level came an increase in price, resulting in a swarm of cheaper coupes. The pack included the Geo Storm/Isuzu Impulse, the Toyota Paseo, Nissan NX/200SX, and the wonderful Mazda MX-3 with a 1.8 liter V6!
It was also the decade that the roadster made a well deserved return with Mazda's Miata, a sensation when it was introduced. Truly it was the decade of the Japanese sports car.
Now we're in the 2K's, and it's rather boring on the performance front. Sedans are the new performance vehicles, while coupes have faded. Nissan has dropped the 200SX, 240SX, and there is no longer a 2-Door Sentra. Mazda no longer makes the MX-6 or MX-3. Toyota still has the Celica, but the Paseo and Supra are history. Mitsubishi's 3000GT went the way of the dinosaurs, and Subaru and Suzuki don't even make any coupes.
Yes, the Lancer and the WRX are impressive performance vehicles for the price, but they're still sedans. A sports car comes with only two doors, not four. At least Scion is bringing out the tC, but I fear that coupes are an endangered species in the automotive market. Young people are leaning more towards SUV's instead of sports cars as automotive expressions, but when the SUV bubble finally bursts (seen gas prices lately?), will the sports car make a comeback? I can only hope. I miss the nineties.
Link Of The Day
Most people haven't even heard of this car. It has terrible reliability, is almost impossible to get parts for, and has strange styling, but I would own one. It's Renault's Fuego. You can also read some history on AutoWeek.com.
Changes
Since I had the day off, I decided to redo the layout. It'll do for now, but there has been a major change! NO MORE ADS!!! This site is now ad-free!
Link Of The Day
The assault of the US Microcars continues, this time Ford's spunky little Festiva gets the spotlight.
Link Of The Day
It's a small car, often with only 3 cylinders for the powerplant, but I think they're cool. It's a page dedicated to the Geo Metro.
Whodda Thunk It?
I just won some items off eBay, specifically some older Toyota keychains. Nothing really special, just something I'm going to use to make a nice little Toyota artwork. There was one each for a Tercel, Corolla, Celica, Supra, and a Cressida. The bidding started at the same price for each, but guess which one I had to have the highest bid to win? The Supra? Nope. The Cressida? No again.
It was the damn Tercel keychain!! Somebody really wanted it, but I'll be damned if I was gonna lose one of the set!
It was the damn Tercel keychain!! Somebody really wanted it, but I'll be damned if I was gonna lose one of the set!
Wagons Ho!
I really like Autoguy, and I definitely recommend you check out the site. That said, I find that I often don't agree with his view of the auto industry. This is a good thing, as it means I get exposed to a different point of view. I'm not an automotive guru, and my views on the industry are influenced by my life experiences and where I live. The same is true for Autoguy, and I think that is one of the main reasons I find our views are disparate. Here am I, in Nashville, Tennessee, a land of trucks and SUV's, while autoguy is in LA.
As someone who lives in LA, and knows the Hollywood/freeway mentality that goes on here, it's important that the word gets out on what is cool in the auto industry, and what isn't. LA leads in fads, and what cars we Angelenos drive, are the cars that eventually all of America will drive, and whatever car company doesn't sell well here, there's a good chance they won't sell well in the future.
I happen to believe that LA is not the center of the automotive world. It's very influential, yes, but a car that is not successful there does not mean it will be unsuccessful in the rest of the country. Fads come and go, and the internet has greatly changed the way they spread and develop. LA also has adifferent climate than a lot of the country, and winter has a huge affect on many automotive purchases. I used to live in Cleveland, Ohio, and I can tell you that how a car handles in the snow makes a major impact on which vehicle you buy if you live in the north.
All of this leads up to Autoguy's latest post, discussing the upcoming Chevy Nomad. Autoguy thinks it's a mistake, while I think it's a smart move. Chrysler has been very successful with the PT Cruiser, and the Nomad is a logical choice to compete n that market. The wagon market has been in decline for over a decade now, with the rising popularity of SUV's, and that's exactly why I think the Nomad makes sense. These are not your father's wagon, as it were.
Autoguy says the Pontiac Vibe and Toyota Matrix have been a failure, but I see more of them every day. Yes, they're wagons, but they don't have the old wagon image. They look like hybrid wagon-SUV's, and that's why they sell. Instead of being simply a Corolla wagon, Toyota has wisely given them they're own style. The Mazda Protege S wagon is another of these vehicles I see more of everyay, and the Mada 3 wagon continues this trend. The same will be true for the Nomad, but it will need a four-door version if GM wants it to be a commercial success. The poeple buying these wagons are the young and young at heart, who want the utility of an SUV but not the handling of a truck.
We won't really know which one of us is correct for a while. The Nomad won't reach showrooms until 2007.
As someone who lives in LA, and knows the Hollywood/freeway mentality that goes on here, it's important that the word gets out on what is cool in the auto industry, and what isn't. LA leads in fads, and what cars we Angelenos drive, are the cars that eventually all of America will drive, and whatever car company doesn't sell well here, there's a good chance they won't sell well in the future.
I happen to believe that LA is not the center of the automotive world. It's very influential, yes, but a car that is not successful there does not mean it will be unsuccessful in the rest of the country. Fads come and go, and the internet has greatly changed the way they spread and develop. LA also has adifferent climate than a lot of the country, and winter has a huge affect on many automotive purchases. I used to live in Cleveland, Ohio, and I can tell you that how a car handles in the snow makes a major impact on which vehicle you buy if you live in the north.
All of this leads up to Autoguy's latest post, discussing the upcoming Chevy Nomad. Autoguy thinks it's a mistake, while I think it's a smart move. Chrysler has been very successful with the PT Cruiser, and the Nomad is a logical choice to compete n that market. The wagon market has been in decline for over a decade now, with the rising popularity of SUV's, and that's exactly why I think the Nomad makes sense. These are not your father's wagon, as it were.
Autoguy says the Pontiac Vibe and Toyota Matrix have been a failure, but I see more of them every day. Yes, they're wagons, but they don't have the old wagon image. They look like hybrid wagon-SUV's, and that's why they sell. Instead of being simply a Corolla wagon, Toyota has wisely given them they're own style. The Mazda Protege S wagon is another of these vehicles I see more of everyay, and the Mada 3 wagon continues this trend. The same will be true for the Nomad, but it will need a four-door version if GM wants it to be a commercial success. The poeple buying these wagons are the young and young at heart, who want the utility of an SUV but not the handling of a truck.
We won't really know which one of us is correct for a while. The Nomad won't reach showrooms until 2007.
Link Of The Day
Perhaphs the weirdest styling exercise ever, we proudly present XT.org, a tribute to Subaru's wonder-wedge!
Segway Into The Junkyard
Shock and awe!! The Segway is doing terrible. You know that thing, the two wheel scooter that uses gyros to saty balanced while you ride it. It was supposed to change the world, revolutionize city transportation , and make the world a better place to live. Apparently 6,000 units have left a factory that can produce 40,000 a month. I'm shocked!
When will people learn that you're just not going to replace cars with something that is less practical? If it can't do what a car does, and do it better, people will ignore it. Cars are a necessity, and all the feel-good planning that enviromentalists say will eliminate the need for automobiles won't change that.
It doesn't matter how close you live to work, people are not going to ride down the street in the middle of winter on something that doesn't have a sealed cockpit!
When will people learn that you're just not going to replace cars with something that is less practical? If it can't do what a car does, and do it better, people will ignore it. Cars are a necessity, and all the feel-good planning that enviromentalists say will eliminate the need for automobiles won't change that.
It doesn't matter how close you live to work, people are not going to ride down the street in the middle of winter on something that doesn't have a sealed cockpit!
Everything's Super
Doing some research on the internet a few days ago led to a website that had a gallery of Toyota Supra's, the mark II models. There I found a picture that was damn close to my Supra.
A flood of emotions came to me when I saw that photo. That was the best car I've owned, bar none, and there's not another vehicle I'd rather own, even a Toyoa MR2. The attachment I feel for that vehicle still lingers on, nine years after I sold her.
Damn I want my Supra back!
A flood of emotions came to me when I saw that photo. That was the best car I've owned, bar none, and there's not another vehicle I'd rather own, even a Toyoa MR2. The attachment I feel for that vehicle still lingers on, nine years after I sold her.
Damn I want my Supra back!
Roomba Zoom
Your new Roomba robotic vacuum cleaner is not complete until you put a Nos sticker on it!
Presence
I've always seen the Honda S2000 as a response to the Miata, and thought the styling was OK. But, I've never actually stood next to one, only seen them from afar. It's not until you stand right by one that the design really catches your eye. It's sleek and catlike, and blows the Miata's curves out of the water. The car has "presence", a style that envokes an emotional response, something not many cars do.
I like the Miata. It's cute, and has a singular mission in life, but it's not a very manly style. The S200, on the other hand, oozes masculinity. It looks more like a wild animal, something that takes you along for the ride instead of you having to lead.
That's the kind of car a sports car should be. Good job Honda! I never thought you had it in you.
I like the Miata. It's cute, and has a singular mission in life, but it's not a very manly style. The S200, on the other hand, oozes masculinity. It looks more like a wild animal, something that takes you along for the ride instead of you having to lead.
That's the kind of car a sports car should be. Good job Honda! I never thought you had it in you.
2-4-6-8
I've found a new blog that focuses on the automotive world, Autoguy, and it's nice to see a site like this. Ride could be considered similar, but there's fundamental differences between the two blogs, and that's a good thing. Autoguy's latest post is about rhythym, or what the Japanese auto industry calls the 2-4-6-8 plan.
What this translates to is that every two years, you make some kind of change to a model. Year 2 is a mild style refresh, year 4 is a major style change, year 6 another mild restyle, then year 8 you bring out a new platform. The Japanese have used this model very successfully, keeping their cars looking up to date and fresh, while the Big Three tend to postpone updates to their models as long as possible, because the 2-4-6-8 plan is very expensive.
There's another effect tp the domestic brands that autoguy alluded to, and I'd like to expound upon it. Honda has the Accord, Toyota has the Camry, but what is Chevrolet's bread-and-butter sedan? Right now it's the Malibu, which used to be the Lumina, and before that it was the Celebrity. Why three names in the same period that Honda and Toyota have only needed one? Image. The Celebrity was competent but uninspiring, as was the Lumina, and in an attempt to avoid the stigma of the previous model from affecting the next model, Chevy changes the name.
That may work well on a household cleaner, but it gives no continuity to the brand at all. The Accord and Camry are nearly legendary names in the marketplace, representing style, value, and quality that has been built up over several years. If Chevrolet really wants to compete against these cars, then they need to spend the time and money to build a really good sedan, wgive it a name, and keep that name, and commit to a 2-4-6-8 plan.
All this is great, but I've learned to expect very little from GM. A company that large is not very nimble in the marketplace, and trying to radically change the way it operates is like trying to fight against an undertow with your arms tied behind your back. This is the company that is killing Saturn right before our eyes, after all.
What this translates to is that every two years, you make some kind of change to a model. Year 2 is a mild style refresh, year 4 is a major style change, year 6 another mild restyle, then year 8 you bring out a new platform. The Japanese have used this model very successfully, keeping their cars looking up to date and fresh, while the Big Three tend to postpone updates to their models as long as possible, because the 2-4-6-8 plan is very expensive.
There's another effect tp the domestic brands that autoguy alluded to, and I'd like to expound upon it. Honda has the Accord, Toyota has the Camry, but what is Chevrolet's bread-and-butter sedan? Right now it's the Malibu, which used to be the Lumina, and before that it was the Celebrity. Why three names in the same period that Honda and Toyota have only needed one? Image. The Celebrity was competent but uninspiring, as was the Lumina, and in an attempt to avoid the stigma of the previous model from affecting the next model, Chevy changes the name.
That may work well on a household cleaner, but it gives no continuity to the brand at all. The Accord and Camry are nearly legendary names in the marketplace, representing style, value, and quality that has been built up over several years. If Chevrolet really wants to compete against these cars, then they need to spend the time and money to build a really good sedan, wgive it a name, and keep that name, and commit to a 2-4-6-8 plan.
All this is great, but I've learned to expect very little from GM. A company that large is not very nimble in the marketplace, and trying to radically change the way it operates is like trying to fight against an undertow with your arms tied behind your back. This is the company that is killing Saturn right before our eyes, after all.
Digital Dreams
Ever wanted to see what Polyphony Digital's (the creators of Gran Turismo) studio looks like? Take a tour!
Top 10 Top Down
If you've got a convertible, Mazda has some destinations for you. Here's Mazda'a Top 10 Top Down driving destinations. I need a convertible!
Toyota News
Toyota has released some pics of it's upcoming vehicles recently, one a production vehicle, and the other a concept that gives a peek at the new full-size truck. Take a look.
That's the Toyota FTX, a concept truck that gives the styling direction for the next Tundra. Looks pretty good to me, aggressive, distinctive, and tough enough to go toe-to-toe with Dodge, Ford, and Nissan. The Domestic boys better watch their back, with the Titan and a new Tundra on the way, the Japanese are finally competing in the final automotive frontier.
This is Scion's new tC coupe. Finally, a car that should really appeal to younger buyers, unlike the xA and xB. No word on price yet, and the styling is, well, somewhat bland, but at least when Scion launches nationwide in June there will be a coupe in the line up. If the price is right I will have to seriously consider purchasing one.
That's the Toyota FTX, a concept truck that gives the styling direction for the next Tundra. Looks pretty good to me, aggressive, distinctive, and tough enough to go toe-to-toe with Dodge, Ford, and Nissan. The Domestic boys better watch their back, with the Titan and a new Tundra on the way, the Japanese are finally competing in the final automotive frontier.
This is Scion's new tC coupe. Finally, a car that should really appeal to younger buyers, unlike the xA and xB. No word on price yet, and the styling is, well, somewhat bland, but at least when Scion launches nationwide in June there will be a coupe in the line up. If the price is right I will have to seriously consider purchasing one.
Deeper Meaning
HondaKid's blog has a post about someone thinking there's no deeper meaning in cars. I have a perfect example of one, and it's a certain styling element on my Ford Probe. You look at the hood, and there's two bulges, where the shock towers are. Without the bulges, the towers would protrude above the hood. It's a blemish on an otherwise sleek design, and there's a story behind it.
It's a story about the conflict between design, engineering, and cost control. Design wanted the sleek hood, cost control wanted off-the shelf shock parts, which meant engineering couldn't design shorter components to clear the hood. A compromise was achieved, and engineering had to design the bulges, instead of more compact shocks.
Those bulges are a snapshot of the way life often works out, the things you have to do to achieve your goals, even though it may not turn out the way you hoped. Looking at my life, I can see plenty of "bulges" during my life. If it was good enoogh for Ford, I guess it can be good enough for me.
It's a story about the conflict between design, engineering, and cost control. Design wanted the sleek hood, cost control wanted off-the shelf shock parts, which meant engineering couldn't design shorter components to clear the hood. A compromise was achieved, and engineering had to design the bulges, instead of more compact shocks.
Those bulges are a snapshot of the way life often works out, the things you have to do to achieve your goals, even though it may not turn out the way you hoped. Looking at my life, I can see plenty of "bulges" during my life. If it was good enoogh for Ford, I guess it can be good enough for me.
Pieces Parts
It all started with Ford and their "New Edge" styling. Sharp creases, bold angles, and straight lines are the concepts in car design, but it's going too far. The Honda Element typifies the new look, but there seems to be a subset, what I call "Lego styled" cars. The Saturn Ion is the worst offender I've seen so far.
Instead of the car looking like a piece of sculpture, it looks more like something created with Lego's. Is there any reason for the bodywork around the windows to be made of so many pieces that don't flow together? You can't look at the car and see one entire shape, your eye is drawn towards each individual part, and nothing meshes together to create something that is greater than the sum of the parts. It gets even worse from a rear-view.
Each piece can be interesting in itself, there's no crime in that, but when that's all you see, a mishmash of seperate items instead of a whole car, something has gone horribly wrong. Your eyes should flow over the lines of a car, drawn from the front to the rear in an easy sweep. Someone at GM's design center needs to take a lesson from Mazda. The 626 is a perfect example of a car that looks more like it was hewn from a solid block of steel, instead of individual pieces bolted together.
That is how cars should be styled. Graceful, sleek, and beautiful.
Instead of the car looking like a piece of sculpture, it looks more like something created with Lego's. Is there any reason for the bodywork around the windows to be made of so many pieces that don't flow together? You can't look at the car and see one entire shape, your eye is drawn towards each individual part, and nothing meshes together to create something that is greater than the sum of the parts. It gets even worse from a rear-view.
Each piece can be interesting in itself, there's no crime in that, but when that's all you see, a mishmash of seperate items instead of a whole car, something has gone horribly wrong. Your eyes should flow over the lines of a car, drawn from the front to the rear in an easy sweep. Someone at GM's design center needs to take a lesson from Mazda. The 626 is a perfect example of a car that looks more like it was hewn from a solid block of steel, instead of individual pieces bolted together.
That is how cars should be styled. Graceful, sleek, and beautiful.
Fast Car, Slow Driver
I have never understood why someone would buy a fast car, and then drive it like they're a blue-haired lady. Every time I see a Porsche Boxster or Chevy Corvette, invariably it's the slowest car in traffic. It's a crime, an affront to what the vehicle stands for. If you want a rolling billboard to advertise your personal wealth, go buy a Lexus. You'll be more comfortable, and so will your car.
It just kills me to be driving down the interstate in my Escort and pass a 'Vette, in fact everyone else is passing the 'Vette also. You can almost see the car just screaming to be let loose.
Don't neuter your car.
It just kills me to be driving down the interstate in my Escort and pass a 'Vette, in fact everyone else is passing the 'Vette also. You can almost see the car just screaming to be let loose.
Don't neuter your car.
Looking Back
We were admiring the beautiful styling of a first-gen Ford Taurus wagon today, and the conversation drifted to childhood times spent in the family wagons that our parents and friend's parents used to own. I'm talking about sitting in the fold-up, rear-facing, third row seat that the older wagons used to have. Where the view was not of where you were going, but of where you had been.
Being a kid in a car was always frustrating. You couldn't reach the radio to change it to the station you wanted, your view was obscured by the front seats, and you had to deal with those damn child-safety windows that only rolled down partially. It just wasn't fair! Everything conspired to reinforce the fact that the car was basically a rolling playpen you couldn't escape, and you were much too old to be stuck in some damn playpen!
But, if you were lucky enough, sometimes your "mobile prison" was in that magical seat that disappeared beneath the cargo area. Inhabiting that seat was like getting away with stealing some cookies, and your parents never suspecting you. The huge rear window giving a view akin to a wide-screen television, the fact that you weren't forced to look past your parents to see the world, put together gave a moment of freedom in an otherwise captive enviroment.
Even with onboard DVD systems and rear seat radio and climate controls that you find in today's SUV's and minivans, they all lack the magic of that wagon-style third-row seat. Watching Finding Nemo may placate the rugrats for a little while, but it can't compare to the mystical moments spent watching the world go by in reverse.
Being a kid in a car was always frustrating. You couldn't reach the radio to change it to the station you wanted, your view was obscured by the front seats, and you had to deal with those damn child-safety windows that only rolled down partially. It just wasn't fair! Everything conspired to reinforce the fact that the car was basically a rolling playpen you couldn't escape, and you were much too old to be stuck in some damn playpen!
But, if you were lucky enough, sometimes your "mobile prison" was in that magical seat that disappeared beneath the cargo area. Inhabiting that seat was like getting away with stealing some cookies, and your parents never suspecting you. The huge rear window giving a view akin to a wide-screen television, the fact that you weren't forced to look past your parents to see the world, put together gave a moment of freedom in an otherwise captive enviroment.
Even with onboard DVD systems and rear seat radio and climate controls that you find in today's SUV's and minivans, they all lack the magic of that wagon-style third-row seat. Watching Finding Nemo may placate the rugrats for a little while, but it can't compare to the mystical moments spent watching the world go by in reverse.
Go Naked
There's something about the look of a naked motorcycle. By "naked" I mean a bike with minimal bodywork, allowing the engine and frame to be seen in their full glory. It's a very different style from that of a fully-faired motorcycle, or even a car. There's a mechanical feel, a message that is conveyed that this a working machine.
Most of the mechanical items we deal with on a daily basis do their best to hide all the working parts. The inner working of the machines are best left alone, a job for a techincian, someone qualified to deal with these contraptions. It's just not something we want to deal with. We all have our own sense of what reality is, and for many, mechanical things fall into the realm of magic. As long as it works, we don't care the how's and why' of it.
Naked motorcycles, on the other hand, brazenly advertise the fact that they are a machine, and you will deal with it on it's own level, regardless of how you feel. To me, that's the most charming aspect of their character. The engine is right there in plain view, begging you to fiddle around with it. What does this piece do, how does it relate to the entire process of combustion. It may be something that many don't want to think about, but it piques my curiosity. I can't resist it.
Go ahead, go out naked. You just might learn something about your machine, and hopefully something about yourself.
Most of the mechanical items we deal with on a daily basis do their best to hide all the working parts. The inner working of the machines are best left alone, a job for a techincian, someone qualified to deal with these contraptions. It's just not something we want to deal with. We all have our own sense of what reality is, and for many, mechanical things fall into the realm of magic. As long as it works, we don't care the how's and why' of it.
Naked motorcycles, on the other hand, brazenly advertise the fact that they are a machine, and you will deal with it on it's own level, regardless of how you feel. To me, that's the most charming aspect of their character. The engine is right there in plain view, begging you to fiddle around with it. What does this piece do, how does it relate to the entire process of combustion. It may be something that many don't want to think about, but it piques my curiosity. I can't resist it.
Go ahead, go out naked. You just might learn something about your machine, and hopefully something about yourself.
Oh Please
There's an infomercial running that's advertising a very interesting device. It's called the Tornado Fuel Saver. It's supposed to increase horsepower and fuel mileage. Of course, there is a slight disclaimer...
Your results will vary. These tests were completed in a laboratory under test conditions. Mileage improvements, if any, vary widely depending on driving habits and the model, engine, and condition of the vehicle.
I haven't bought one myself, but here's some things I find interesting about it. They don't tell you what laboratory did the testing, so you have no way to verify the test data, or find out what the test conditions were. If it does what it says, wouldn't the auto manufacturers have done this already? Form your own conclusion, but something that sounds too good to be true usually is.
Your results will vary. These tests were completed in a laboratory under test conditions. Mileage improvements, if any, vary widely depending on driving habits and the model, engine, and condition of the vehicle.
I haven't bought one myself, but here's some things I find interesting about it. They don't tell you what laboratory did the testing, so you have no way to verify the test data, or find out what the test conditions were. If it does what it says, wouldn't the auto manufacturers have done this already? Form your own conclusion, but something that sounds too good to be true usually is.
Link Of The Day
Today we take a look at the Toyota Celica. Celica.net should be at the top of your list for info on Celicas.
Getting Into Trouble
Just bought the new issue of Cycle World, and there's a new bike I just gotta have! The MV Augusta Brutale S.
I just love a naked bike. There's much to be said about flamboyant and alluring bodywork, but seeing the frame and engine on a motorcycle just seems right to me.
Now, where did I leave that $13,995 laying around here?
I just love a naked bike. There's much to be said about flamboyant and alluring bodywork, but seeing the frame and engine on a motorcycle just seems right to me.
Now, where did I leave that $13,995 laying around here?
Generation Gap
Two things occured to me recently. I was reading an FAQ on Gran Turismo, and the writer's recommendations for best cars did not include any rear-wheel drive vehicles. Why? Because they are too hard to handle, said the author. This seemed strange to me. Being able to slide out the rear-wheels at will sure makes it easier to get around the turns, or at least I think so. Then I realized the author was probably younger than me, and probably never drove a rear-wheel drive car in his life.
My first car was a Ford Granada, and my second was a Toyota Supra, both RWD. Growing up in Ohio, learning how to drive RWD cars in the snow, and sliding the rear wheels out in a turn was a natural part of the driving experience. For many people younger than me, those born in the eighties, FWD is all they have known. Dad's Camry, Mom's Accord, Uncle Larry's Taurus, these three cars have dominated the sales charts for so long that most youngsters only know FWD, and automatic trannies. If they only knew what they were missing.
I started a new job yesterday, and have seven weeks of training to go through. One of the first things we did was interview each other so we could know a little bit about the memebers. There's fifteen of us in the class, and one of the questions was "What is your dream car?". One said Corvette, two votes for Porsche, two muscle car votes, and two Beemers. Every one else (except me) wanted some kind of SUV. We're talking dream cars, and these people want an oversized station wagon! And not one of them at least said Porsche Cayenne! Better treasure the performance cars on the market today, theyr'e a dying breed.
What did I choose? A 1986 Toyota MR2, 5-speed, red (the color God intended it to be)!
My first car was a Ford Granada, and my second was a Toyota Supra, both RWD. Growing up in Ohio, learning how to drive RWD cars in the snow, and sliding the rear wheels out in a turn was a natural part of the driving experience. For many people younger than me, those born in the eighties, FWD is all they have known. Dad's Camry, Mom's Accord, Uncle Larry's Taurus, these three cars have dominated the sales charts for so long that most youngsters only know FWD, and automatic trannies. If they only knew what they were missing.
I started a new job yesterday, and have seven weeks of training to go through. One of the first things we did was interview each other so we could know a little bit about the memebers. There's fifteen of us in the class, and one of the questions was "What is your dream car?". One said Corvette, two votes for Porsche, two muscle car votes, and two Beemers. Every one else (except me) wanted some kind of SUV. We're talking dream cars, and these people want an oversized station wagon! And not one of them at least said Porsche Cayenne! Better treasure the performance cars on the market today, theyr'e a dying breed.
What did I choose? A 1986 Toyota MR2, 5-speed, red (the color God intended it to be)!
Link Of The Day
Today we stay with FoMoCo, this time with the Mercury Division. Check out Cool Cats, focusing on 83-89 Mercury Cougars. Technical info abounds, and it's a great resource for these cars. My dad used to own a black XR7, so I'm kinda partial to them.
More Links
OK, two more Ford-related links for you. First, a site dedicated to my first car, the International American Ford Granada, Mercury Monarch/Cougar, and Lincoln Versailles Owners Club, although the info presented is rather sparse. But, no one else seems to have a website addressed to these cars. The second is FordEXP.com, Ford's little Escort-based two seater. Yeah, I know, a lot of Ford stuff, but they make, in my opinion, the best domestic cars.
News Page
I'm finally getting off my behind and updating the entire site to the new look. The news page is finally up, where I will put up announcements on what's going on with the site.
Links Of The Day
Been working on Babytang (Ford Tempo) the last couple of days, so here's some interesting Tempo links. First up is Tempo Topaz.com, the Ford Tempo/Mercury Topaz car club of North America, lots of info on these cars. Then we have Brian's site, detailing his Ford Tempo GLS and Mercury Topaz XR5. His Topaz has a working lighbar like the Sable, and many other mods. Finally comes the SHOpaz, a Mercury Topaz with a Taurus SHO engine and transmission. Crazy!
Link Of The Day
TX3/GTX Central...For loads of info on the Ford Laser, try this place. Makes you wanna cry that we didn't get it here.
Grass Is Always Greener
For being the largest automotive market in the world, we sure get shafted a lot when it comes to cars. We got the Ford Escort GT, Australia got the Ford Laser TX3...torbocharged and AWD.
This happens all the time, and I don't understand why. Every time a manufacturer brings out a niche vehicle here, it fails. Even the PT Cruiser is having sales woes. If it's not a mainstream sedan or SUV, it seems like it doesn't stand a chance in the US.
Think of the Ford Focus SVT commercial where the parents take their son's car out for a midnight drive and get caught. It's a 4-door, fer chrissakes!
This happens all the time, and I don't understand why. Every time a manufacturer brings out a niche vehicle here, it fails. Even the PT Cruiser is having sales woes. If it's not a mainstream sedan or SUV, it seems like it doesn't stand a chance in the US.
Think of the Ford Focus SVT commercial where the parents take their son's car out for a midnight drive and get caught. It's a 4-door, fer chrissakes!
Useful Link
Fazda.net...Information about Ford/Mazda crossover vehicles, such as the Probe and Escort. Not much here right now, but seems to be growing.
I Am...
According to Googlism, I am...
mr2 is a comfortable car
mr2 is our answer to this interest
mr2 is neither authorized by nor affilated with toyota motor sales
mr2 is by far the best value for the money in the sports car industry
mr2 is a pretty noisy car anyway
mr2 is a roadster in the true tradition and features two seats in a very snug cabin with the engine mounted mid ship behind the seats
mr2 is aiming squarely at this market
mr2 is designed for the impulsive
mr2 is a pure sports car
mr2 is truly a unique vehicle and one of the sad casualties of the mid-nineties
mr2 is great fun
mr2 is a better car than $81
mr2 is the epitome of a sleeper
mr2 is undeniably well put together and beautifully engineered; the engines are long proven and the fit and finish is excellent
mr2 is great fun to drive
mr2 is going through a rejuvenation of it's own
mr2 is less powerful
mr2 is a cheeky little number
mr2 is still mine
mr2 is almost too comfortable
mr2 is a little more forgiving than the race cars for which these automated manual transmissions were devised
mr2 is indeed a safe car
mr2 is very popular in tarmac and rally racing all over the world
mr2 is changed
mr2 is scary in slippery weather
mr2 is meant to be driven with verve
mr2 is reasonably rapid
mr2 is already half way up that steep hill
mr2 is the less known brother of the toyota supra and this is the purpose as to why we built this website
mr2 is everything a roadster should be
mr2 is economical too
mr2 is a terrific place to start
mr2 is not trying to take either on directly
mr2 is a cracking little device
mr2 is supercharged if it has a sticker on the back that says "supercharged" on the left
mr2 is quite a noisy little beast
mr2 is an outstanding basis for professional tuning
mr2 is all about driving thrills
mr2 is becoming a very popular car
mr2 is slightly faster once spooled up
mr2 is a playful sport car with exuberant power
mr2 is back
mr2 is a true two
mr2 is a sheer joy to drive
mr2 is one of the most enjoyable cars you can buy
mr2 is pretty steady into the difficult sparkplug
mr2 is ready willing and able to rev quickly and often
mr2 is perhaps the most thrilling to drive
mr2 is deceptivley quick
mr2 is well equipped
mr2 is an amazing car
And this website, ride, is...
ride is leaving nasa after making major contributions
ride is here
ride is back
ride is only part of the weekend fun
ride is a great way to enjoy
ride is not enough
ride is supposed to be fun
ride is looking for recruits
ride is the reason
ride is anything but routine
ride is smoother now
ride is here
ride is unbelievable
ride is cosmic
ride is not a race
ride is a great way to enjoy winter in vermont
ride is half the fun
ride is a plan in motion
ride is available to you
ride is free
ride is over but then again you already knew that as financial reality thundered down upon the head of the dot
ride is faster than free fall
ride is safest means to school
ride is worth the labor
ride is smaller but still joyous
ride is in ducks guts
ride is upon us
ride is coming to town sat
ride is the place for all your watercraft and boating needs
ride is an appropriate way to encourage public transport use in perth
ride is about 45 to 50 minutes long
ride is what you're in search of
ride is over abilene mother has witnessed a metamorphosis by susie striegler
ride is smooth for most hokies
ride is getting faster and faster
ride is on
mr2 is a comfortable car
mr2 is our answer to this interest
mr2 is neither authorized by nor affilated with toyota motor sales
mr2 is by far the best value for the money in the sports car industry
mr2 is a pretty noisy car anyway
mr2 is a roadster in the true tradition and features two seats in a very snug cabin with the engine mounted mid ship behind the seats
mr2 is aiming squarely at this market
mr2 is designed for the impulsive
mr2 is a pure sports car
mr2 is truly a unique vehicle and one of the sad casualties of the mid-nineties
mr2 is great fun
mr2 is a better car than $81
mr2 is the epitome of a sleeper
mr2 is undeniably well put together and beautifully engineered; the engines are long proven and the fit and finish is excellent
mr2 is great fun to drive
mr2 is going through a rejuvenation of it's own
mr2 is less powerful
mr2 is a cheeky little number
mr2 is still mine
mr2 is almost too comfortable
mr2 is a little more forgiving than the race cars for which these automated manual transmissions were devised
mr2 is indeed a safe car
mr2 is very popular in tarmac and rally racing all over the world
mr2 is changed
mr2 is scary in slippery weather
mr2 is meant to be driven with verve
mr2 is reasonably rapid
mr2 is already half way up that steep hill
mr2 is the less known brother of the toyota supra and this is the purpose as to why we built this website
mr2 is everything a roadster should be
mr2 is economical too
mr2 is a terrific place to start
mr2 is not trying to take either on directly
mr2 is a cracking little device
mr2 is supercharged if it has a sticker on the back that says "supercharged" on the left
mr2 is quite a noisy little beast
mr2 is an outstanding basis for professional tuning
mr2 is all about driving thrills
mr2 is becoming a very popular car
mr2 is slightly faster once spooled up
mr2 is a playful sport car with exuberant power
mr2 is back
mr2 is a true two
mr2 is a sheer joy to drive
mr2 is one of the most enjoyable cars you can buy
mr2 is pretty steady into the difficult sparkplug
mr2 is ready willing and able to rev quickly and often
mr2 is perhaps the most thrilling to drive
mr2 is deceptivley quick
mr2 is well equipped
mr2 is an amazing car
And this website, ride, is...
ride is leaving nasa after making major contributions
ride is here
ride is back
ride is only part of the weekend fun
ride is a great way to enjoy
ride is not enough
ride is supposed to be fun
ride is looking for recruits
ride is the reason
ride is anything but routine
ride is smoother now
ride is here
ride is unbelievable
ride is cosmic
ride is not a race
ride is a great way to enjoy winter in vermont
ride is half the fun
ride is a plan in motion
ride is available to you
ride is free
ride is over but then again you already knew that as financial reality thundered down upon the head of the dot
ride is faster than free fall
ride is safest means to school
ride is worth the labor
ride is smaller but still joyous
ride is in ducks guts
ride is upon us
ride is coming to town sat
ride is the place for all your watercraft and boating needs
ride is an appropriate way to encourage public transport use in perth
ride is about 45 to 50 minutes long
ride is what you're in search of
ride is over abilene mother has witnessed a metamorphosis by susie striegler
ride is smooth for most hokies
ride is getting faster and faster
ride is on
Commercial
The Mini is the Car of the Year for 2003. They made one hell of a commercial to celebrate it!
Source: The Presurfer
Source: The Presurfer
The Choice
Today I purchased another car. A 1994 Ford Escort LX. Here she is...
First impressions are good. Decent handling and acceleration, good brakes, and a simple but endearing style. The car is in excellent shape, and was absolutely a steal at $710. I'm not in love yet, but I think it will happen.
This is, of course, a happy occasion, but it also leads to a quandry. Sitting next to the Escort is my Ford Probe. There should also be a Geo Storm on the opposite side, but there isn't. The Storm is no more, after only a month in my possesion. I barely knew her, but in the brief time we shared the road she touched my soul. She was one hell of a car, and will be sorely missed.
The Probe has been sitting in the same parking spot for over a month, motionless. The engine works, but the transmission doesn't. Last month she dies on my way home from work. A new ignition system ($625) and battery (drained from the emergency flashers being on overnight and no longer holding a charge, $40), and the Probe would start. She just wouldn't move. In addition, needed in the very near future are new CV joints (around $600) and new shocks and struts (about $400). Add in the estimated $1000 bill for the tranny, and you have a grand total 0f $2,665 to fix a car I purchased for $600 a year ago.
Logic says it's not worth it. It would make more sense to get rid of the car than soldier on in the hope of fixing her. Repairing a transmission that I want to eventually replace with a manual is another strike against the Probe. Surely, Spock would say "Sell."
But, the heart speaks just as loudly on the Probe's behalf. The car has been my faithful companion for a year now. There's beauty in the sheetmetal, even with the scrapes and bumps left by the previous owners, and underneath there's true beauty. The mechanical symphony that resonates from the engine bay, the interaction of the car and the road that feels so right (when the suspension's up to snuff), and the tactile feel of the human-vehicle interace that melds man and machine seamlessly. This car, this broken machinery, is something to preserve and cherise, says the heart.
Hard numbers. Deep emotions. One choice. A decision I don't want to make.
First impressions are good. Decent handling and acceleration, good brakes, and a simple but endearing style. The car is in excellent shape, and was absolutely a steal at $710. I'm not in love yet, but I think it will happen.
This is, of course, a happy occasion, but it also leads to a quandry. Sitting next to the Escort is my Ford Probe. There should also be a Geo Storm on the opposite side, but there isn't. The Storm is no more, after only a month in my possesion. I barely knew her, but in the brief time we shared the road she touched my soul. She was one hell of a car, and will be sorely missed.
The Probe has been sitting in the same parking spot for over a month, motionless. The engine works, but the transmission doesn't. Last month she dies on my way home from work. A new ignition system ($625) and battery (drained from the emergency flashers being on overnight and no longer holding a charge, $40), and the Probe would start. She just wouldn't move. In addition, needed in the very near future are new CV joints (around $600) and new shocks and struts (about $400). Add in the estimated $1000 bill for the tranny, and you have a grand total 0f $2,665 to fix a car I purchased for $600 a year ago.
Logic says it's not worth it. It would make more sense to get rid of the car than soldier on in the hope of fixing her. Repairing a transmission that I want to eventually replace with a manual is another strike against the Probe. Surely, Spock would say "Sell."
But, the heart speaks just as loudly on the Probe's behalf. The car has been my faithful companion for a year now. There's beauty in the sheetmetal, even with the scrapes and bumps left by the previous owners, and underneath there's true beauty. The mechanical symphony that resonates from the engine bay, the interaction of the car and the road that feels so right (when the suspension's up to snuff), and the tactile feel of the human-vehicle interace that melds man and machine seamlessly. This car, this broken machinery, is something to preserve and cherise, says the heart.
Hard numbers. Deep emotions. One choice. A decision I don't want to make.
Link Of The Day
Ford Escort Owners Association ... A forum for Escort owners. Better than most Yahoo groups concerning the Escort.
Cadillac's Balls
You have to give Cadillac some credit. Their current designs fall under the "love-it-or-hate-it" school of design. Unfortunately, I hate it. It's one thing to use edges to accent a shape, it's another to think that edges can be the shape. It's like someone took a bunch of broken glass, glues it together randomly, and said "I'm done!".
I don't believe the designers really like the design, they're just trying to make something stand out. If you want to compete with Mercedes, BMW, and Lexus, funky style alone will not do it. Look at any of the other three makes, and the style of the cars says luxury, without being audacious and flashy. Subtlety and style rule the design. Cadillac still has a long way to go.
I don't believe the designers really like the design, they're just trying to make something stand out. If you want to compete with Mercedes, BMW, and Lexus, funky style alone will not do it. Look at any of the other three makes, and the style of the cars says luxury, without being audacious and flashy. Subtlety and style rule the design. Cadillac still has a long way to go.
100%
I've owned Gran Turismo 2 since it came out in 1999. I've never completed the game. That's about to change.
Screwed
