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  • dino001dino001 Member Posts: 6,191
    fintail said:

    However, the Phaeton is alive and well in Germany and other markets.

    Didn't know that. Checked the German site - indeed, it is.

    2018 430i Gran Coupe

  • graphicguygraphicguy Member Posts: 14,123
    I like my son's '16 GTI, a lot. They have become quite nice, well built, quick, sporty, nice materials, etc. I have only looked at A/S3s and have not driven one. So, can't comment on that count. However, given the price difference, I'd be might tempted to stick with a a GTI or Golf R given their similarities to the Audis and their price advantages.
    2024 Kia EV6 GT-Line AWD Long Range
  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,402
    I like the GTI too, with just a few quibbles particular to me, and my needs. Which is why I would actually be interested in the WB now, since it really is a bit of a "baby GTI" for people that don't need the last 2-3 10ths (that would probably never use anyway).

    plus, you can always make select upgrades over time to make a stealth one (chip the engine, throw on new springs/wheels) if you really need to. The only thing I would really miss is plaid seats, but i wouldn't get them on a GTI anyway, since I want a moonroof.

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • 28firefighter28firefighter Member Posts: 9,839
    For whatever it's worth, I think the replacement for the GTI will likely be an S3/S4 - but that is at least 3-4 years out, if not longer. My plan is to payoff the GTI this fall and then buy a CPO X3/Q5/RDX equivalent for the wife that will last us through the daycare years.
    2025 Jetta GLI Autobahn, 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xE
  • andres3andres3 Member Posts: 13,936
    stickguy said:

    I like the GTI too, with just a few quibbles particular to me, and my needs. Which is why I would actually be interested in the WB now, since it really is a bit of a "baby GTI" for people that don't need the last 2-3 10ths (that would probably never use anyway).

    plus, you can always make select upgrades over time to make a stealth one (chip the engine, throw on new springs/wheels) if you really need to. The only thing I would really miss is plaid seats, but i wouldn't get them on a GTI anyway, since I want a moonroof.

    My issue is I like the plaid cloth but prefer an upgraded Stereo system. Impossible, although someone might have mentioned the new performance pack might solve that?
    '18 Porsche Macan Turbo, '16 Audi TTS, Wife's '19 VW Tiguan SEL 4-Motion
  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    That steering in the Chryco 300 felt pretty dangerous today. It happens about every 5 miles, I am driving along and then the car wants to veer in the opposite direction....only lasts about 4 or 5 seconds. I have to hang onto the wheel tight with 2 hands, and pull it back on track. It feels like the wheels got caught in a streetcar track and want to go on their own.

    I switched the 300 for an X1. Talk about firm steering....feels like there is no power steering, but, I am getting used to it after the loosey goosey 300. Annoying that I can't switch off the off on ignition. Interior is pretty basic, but, the X1 is solid, it is engineered right, it feels light years ahead of the 300 - and it has 28k miles on it compared to 6k on the 300.

    Discount thinks it is low on power steering fluid....but, only 6k miles!

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • houdini1houdini1 Member Posts: 8,351
    driver100 said:

    fintail said:

    I wonder if BMW salespeople ever explain turn signal operation to their prospects - hard to believe it based on what I see on the road here B)

    Around here sometimes I think Toyota salespeople never explain that their cars have gas pedals.
    fintail said:


    I don't see MB salespeople putting down others much, but I do remember one who went on about how Audis are glorified VWs.

    Audis are glorified VW's.
    And Lincolns are glorified Fusions, Lexus is glorified Camry, GMC Yukon is Chev Tahoe, and then there is this:

    Take, for instance, the tiny European city runabout known as the Aston Martin Cygnet. In its most basic version it sells at more than $45,000. The car is actually made by Toyota and a Toyota version (identical except for some interior accoutrements) can be had for less than $17,000. On an apples-to-apples comparison, Which? reckons the average price discrepancy is more than $31,000. Thus those who prefer Aston Martin’s badge pay an outrageous three times more for exactly the same Toyota engineering!




    Don't forget that Mercedes is just a glorified Smart Car ! :D

    2013 LX 570 2016 LS 460

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    houdini1 said:


    "houdini1
    Don't forget that Mercedes is just a glorified Smart Car ! :D

    That is funny.

    Seriously though, I have had a rental Fusion, Cruze, Chrysler 300, BMW iX, and I have no idea how I will last until December without my Benzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz! (sorry whoever was offended by using that name)

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • nyccarguynyccarguy Member Posts: 17,510

    I like my son's '16 GTI, a lot. They have become quite nice, well built, quick, sporty, nice materials, etc. I have only looked at A/S3s and have not driven one. So, can't comment on that count. However, given the price difference, I'd be might tempted to stick with a a GTI or Golf R given their similarities to the Audis and their price advantages.

    It's hard to argue against a GTI, especially at the price point of the 2017 Sport. As far as public roads go, sure 292 hp (in the R) is better than the "standard" 220 hp but I'd have a hard time justifying the price difference between a GTI Sport & an R. Even with AWD & the other goodies. Then I'd have to price out an S3 vs. Golf R and drive them back to back. It might come down to the sales experience. The R usually commands close to sticker while an S3 can be had for a discount that would bring its selling price closer to the R.

    2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    "houdini1

    Don't forget that Mercedes is just a glorified Smart Car ! :D



    And Fiat is a: Alfa Romeo, Jeep, Lancia, Maserati, Ram and SRT.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • berriberri Member Posts: 10,165
    Driver, I think the 300 has drive by wire, so you were smart to get out of it since it could be warning of a computer system failure. Incidentally, a United Airbus had an issue like that which ran it off the taxiway in Denver the other day.
  • fintailfintail Member Posts: 58,437
    I forget if I asked, which rental agency? X1s are uncommon in fleets on this continent.
    driver100 said:

    That steering in the Chryco 300 felt pretty dangerous today. It happens about every 5 miles, I am driving along and then the car wants to veer in the opposite direction....only lasts about 4 or 5 seconds. I have to hang onto the wheel tight with 2 hands, and pull it back on track. It feels like the wheels got caught in a streetcar track and want to go on their own.

    I switched the 300 for an X1. Talk about firm steering....feels like there is no power steering, but, I am getting used to it after the loosey goosey 300. Annoying that I can't switch off the off on ignition. Interior is pretty basic, but, the X1 is solid, it is engineered right, it feels light years ahead of the 300 - and it has 28k miles on it compared to 6k on the 300.

    Discount thinks it is low on power steering fluid....but, only 6k miles!

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    berri said:

    Driver, I think the 300 has drive by wire, so you were smart to get out of it since it could be warning of a computer system failure. Incidentally, a United Airbus had an issue like that which ran it off the taxiway in Denver the other day.

    I forgot about that. It did go through my mind that if it was ps fluid, it would be more constant. I thought at one point I should call and have them pick up the car....if I hit a car or someone because of this steering it could be my fault for driving it knowing it wasn't right.....and I would have to prove there was a malfunction.

    Another thought was, I don't know how much this car is worth, say $38k, I think I would rather pay say $45k for a 328, A4 or C Class that I know has a much better chance of being designed right. I have heard people balk at paying $45k for a car....but, at least you aren't throwing away $38k on something not really made right.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    fintail said:

    I forget if I asked, which rental agency? X1s are uncommon in fleets on this continent.

    driver100 said:

    That steering in the Chryco 300 felt pretty dangerous today. It happens about every 5 miles, I am driving along and then the car wants to veer in the opposite direction....only lasts about 4 or 5 seconds. I have to hang onto the wheel tight with 2 hands, and pull it back on track. It feels like the wheels got caught in a streetcar track and want to go on their own.

    I switched the 300 for an X1. Talk about firm steering....feels like there is no power steering, but, I am getting used to it after the loosey goosey 300. Annoying that I can't switch off the off on ignition. Interior is pretty basic, but, the X1 is solid, it is engineered right, it feels light years ahead of the 300 - and it has 28k miles on it compared to 6k on the 300.

    Discount thinks it is low on power steering fluid....but, only 6k miles!

    It was Discount. It just happened that when I called in they had the X1 getting washed and almost ready to go. I imagine they didn't want to fool around when there was a steering problem. The guy said I see you had an E400, so I can give you this X1.
    No blind spot warning and no rear camera, but, it is solid as a rock.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • snakeweaselsnakeweasel Member Posts: 19,592
    andres3 said:

    fintail said:

    I wonder if BMW salespeople ever explain turn signal operation to their prospects - hard to believe it based on what I see on the road here B)

    Around here sometimes I think Toyota salespeople never explain that their cars have gas pedals.
    fintail said:


    I don't see MB salespeople putting down others much, but I do remember one who went on about how Audis are glorified VWs.

    Audis are glorified VW's.
    They are also slightly de-contented Lamborghini though. Oh yeah, and 4-wheel Ducati's :smile:
    Well since both Lamborghini and Ducati both have long histories before being acquired by Audi and they have their DNA going back before Audi it is far less so than an Audi built with VW DNA.

    2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D

  • snakeweaselsnakeweasel Member Posts: 19,592
    andres3 said:

    andres3 said:

    fintail said:

    I wonder if BMW salespeople ever explain turn signal operation to their prospects - hard to believe it based on what I see on the road here B)

    Around here sometimes I think Toyota salespeople never explain that their cars have gas pedals.
    fintail said:


    I don't see MB salespeople putting down others much, but I do remember one who went on about how Audis are glorified VWs.

    Audis are glorified VW's.
    They are also slightly de-contented Lamborghini though. Oh yeah, and 4-wheel Ducati's :smile:
    Come on, the TT is just a dressed up beetle.
    https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/pictures/audi-tt-rs-receives-substantial-performance-boost/

    I wonder how much Audi will price that Beetle! Will pretty much outrun anything. I'm told the TT is not an uncommon daily driver in Germany.
    Not sure but I do know that the TT started out with a Beetle frame, an Beetle engine and a Beetle transmission. Basically Audi changed the body panels and spruced up the interior. Not sure how much of the Beetle the current TT retains but in the beginning it was just a Beetle with plastic surgery.

    2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D

  • snakeweaselsnakeweasel Member Posts: 19,592
    qbrozen said:



    driver100 said:



    And Lincolns are glorified Fusions, Lexus is glorified Camry, GMC Yukon is Chev Tahoe, and then there is this:

    And you hit on one reason that I tend to shy away from luxury cars.

    EXCEPT, there are those that are totally different. For example, Maximas and Altimas are FWD and therefore no Infiniti equivalent. The only Lexus car that crosses over (I think) is the ES. And there are many other examples of course.

    I know that there are those that are totally different, that's why I said one of the reasons. There are other reasons that i shy away from them.

    2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D

  • snakeweaselsnakeweasel Member Posts: 19,592
    fintail said:

    Yep that's along the lines of what I said, the higher models trickled down to the Phaeton, which went over like a lead balloon here. However, the Phaeton is alive and well in Germany and other markets.

    If MB or BMW based a premium branded car on a Mini or Smart, I am certain there would be howls.

    You mean something like this?


    2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D

  • snakeweaselsnakeweasel Member Posts: 19,592
    houdini1 said:

    driver100 said:

    fintail said:

    I wonder if BMW salespeople ever explain turn signal operation to their prospects - hard to believe it based on what I see on the road here B)

    Around here sometimes I think Toyota salespeople never explain that their cars have gas pedals.
    fintail said:


    I don't see MB salespeople putting down others much, but I do remember one who went on about how Audis are glorified VWs.

    Audis are glorified VW's.
    And Lincolns are glorified Fusions, Lexus is glorified Camry, GMC Yukon is Chev Tahoe, and then there is this:

    Take, for instance, the tiny European city runabout known as the Aston Martin Cygnet. In its most basic version it sells at more than $45,000. The car is actually made by Toyota and a Toyota version (identical except for some interior accoutrements) can be had for less than $17,000. On an apples-to-apples comparison, Which? reckons the average price discrepancy is more than $31,000. Thus those who prefer Aston Martin’s badge pay an outrageous three times more for exactly the same Toyota engineering!




    Don't forget that Mercedes is just a glorified Smart Car ! :D
    I think you are going the wrong way on this one.

    2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D

  • ab348ab348 Member Posts: 20,298
    driver100 said:


    And Lincolns are glorified Fusions, Lexus is glorified Camry, GMC Yukon is Chev Tahoe, and then there is this:


    And here I always thought a Lexus was a glorified Corolla. Next thing you'll be telling me that Acuras are just glorified Hondas! ;)

    2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6

  • jmonroejmonroe Member Posts: 8,989

    K

    jmonroe said:

    driver100 said:

    jmonroe said:

    driver100 said:

    jmonroe said:

    driver100 said:

    stickguy said:

    Driver, can't you just share a car for that short a time? If not, figure out when you really need it, and rent much cleaner overall.

    I agree. Hard to share, my wife is all over the place doing her yoga, tennis, gym, bridge, doctor, dentist and other things women do, talk about doilies or something, and I have to be at tennis, pickleball , and....I guess that's about it.

    I think renting is the best plan. The only one better is if someone sold me a great car for a low price, then I could sell it after 6 weeks.....but, there would be license, taxes, advertising, mechanical certificate.......I just talked myself out of that one.
    C'mon now, man up and take her car early in the morning while Mrs. Driver is still sleeping and do what you want to do with it. You know she will be at home when you get back, right?

    Do that once and let us know how that worked out. :'(

    jmonroe
    Thanks for the idea.....not much tennis or pickleball before 6:30 a.m..

    And, how would you like to get by with one car?

    And, do you let Mrs. JM drive your car?

    My wife can drive my car if she really has to....like if my arm and leg got broken. She doesn't really like driving it....too big (one reason I get a larger car).

    I always say, there are 3 things I don't lend 1) my underwear, 2) my toothbrush, 3) my car!
    Mrs. j does not like to drive ANY car but hers, once she gets used to a car she won't drive anything else. If she had a tank, once she got used to it that would be all she would want to drive.

    jmonroe
    I gave my wife a driving lesson in the E400 so that she would know what to do if I passed out or if she needed to drive it in an emergency. When we drive to Florida I do it all, I would rather be driving than be the passenger.....probably a control issue. Most people split the driving, she would prefer not to drive unless she has to.

    Drive to Florida takes about 23 hours of actual driving time. About 8 hours 1st day, 9 the second, and 6 or 7 the third.

    I wanted to show Mrs. j how to drive my car just in case an emergency of some type popped up and she said she could drive it if she HAD to.

    As for driving when we go on vacation that is also out because she does not drive on interstates. Years ago when we went on a vacation, after we stopped to eat she said she would drive because she thought I looked tired. I reminded her that she didn't drive interstates but I guess she wanted to help me and insisted. Son#1 was of driving age at this time but he went with some of his friends to Ocean City MD ahead of us about 3 days earlier so he couldn't help with the driving and Son #2 did not even have his permit yet so he couldn't help drive. I finally agreed to let her drive figuring that it would be a good experience. WRONG, after about 2 miles I told her to pull over and let me have the wheel. She did not do anything wrong other than squeeze the life out of the steering wheel and drove just at the speed limit only in the right lane, even had semi's pass us and pull in front of us a few times. That did it, I took over from their and she said, "I was just getting the hank of it, you should have given me more time". Son #2 said, "Mom, we want to get there today while the sun is still shining and we can go into the ocean. You should learn on your own time".

    That was the last time she ever did that and I ain't sorry one bit.

    jmonroe
    If I ever did that to my wife I'd still be standing on the side of the road. Not that she wouldn't have driven just like yours but she wouldn't tolerate being told about it.

    Not my wife, she would have let me drive. Now she wouldn't talk to be for the next few days over it but she wouldn't leave me there.
    Well, if you were a "glass half full" type of guy you would welcome the peace and quite for those few days. Maybe even finish that book that you were meaning to get back to. ;)

    jmonroe

    '15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl

  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,402
    True. I often enjoy the silent treatment. Peaceful.

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • Mr_ShiftrightMr_Shiftright Member Posts: 64,481

    andres3 said:

    andres3 said:

    fintail said:

    I wonder if BMW salespeople ever explain turn signal operation to their prospects - hard to believe it based on what I see on the road here B)

    Around here sometimes I think Toyota salespeople never explain that their cars have gas pedals.
    fintail said:


    I don't see MB salespeople putting down others much, but I do remember one who went on about how Audis are glorified VWs.

    Audis are glorified VW's.
    They are also slightly de-contented Lamborghini though. Oh yeah, and 4-wheel Ducati's :smile:
    Come on, the TT is just a dressed up beetle.
    https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/pictures/audi-tt-rs-receives-substantial-performance-boost/

    I wonder how much Audi will price that Beetle! Will pretty much outrun anything. I'm told the TT is not an uncommon daily driver in Germany.
    Not sure but I do know that the TT started out with a Beetle frame, an Beetle engine and a Beetle transmission. Basically Audi changed the body panels and spruced up the interior. Not sure how much of the Beetle the current TT retains but in the beginning it was just a Beetle with plastic surgery.
    The Audi TT shared a platform with quite a few Audi/VW products, including New Beetle, Golf Mk IV, A3, etc.
  • sdasda Member Posts: 7,590
    Question for those who recently bought a TDI in anticipation of profiting. Now that you have a TDI, assuming there wasn't a settlement but you just bought the car like any other, do you like the TDI? Would you keep it long term or do you prefer a gasoline powered vehicle? What do you like, what don't you about the TDI?

    2021 VW Arteon SEL 4-motion, 2018 VW Passat SE w/tech, 2016 Audi Q5 Premium Plus w/tech

  • nyccarguynyccarguy Member Posts: 17,510
    I thing the general consensus is that most of the guys like them except @qbrozen who isn't comfortable in his JSW and he also doesn't like that it doesn't have 420 hp like the CTS V Sport he traded in for it B)

    2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD

  • henrynhenryn Member Posts: 4,289
    I owned a 2008 Passat, purchased new, kept for 5 years and 103k miles. 2.0T gas engine. I liked it enough that I would have bought another one, but they will not sell you a Passat with the 2.0T engine anymore. This present car, the 2013 Passat TDI is my first diesel car. I did own a Ford Super Duty diesel for many years, but an entirely different experience.

    I like this car. If it didn't have a sunroof, I would probably keep it until December of 2018 with no depreciation. After I take the buyback, if I could buy a brand new one (without the sunroof), I would give that very serious consideration.

    But right now, in a new Passat, you can't get the 2.0T. And you can't get the diesel. Heck, you can't even get one with satellite radio or the power driver's seat without being forced into a sunroof. Which takes away so much headroom that I am not comfortable. So no, I won't be buying another one.

    But I do like the diesel. I have the display set to show avg mpg since the last start. I have made several freeway trips, 20 to 30 miles, where my avg mpg was 47 or 48. On one trip, the display showed 50 mpg when I pulled off the freeway. And torque, oh yes, it feels good, I like driving it. The DSG is kind of weird, takes some getting used to, but not a deal breaker, not at all.

    As I said, I would buy another one if... But under present circumstances, no I won't. Their loss.
    2023 Chevrolet Silverado, 2019 Chrysler Pacifica
  • 28firefighter28firefighter Member Posts: 9,839
    I really like the TDI. The A3 itself is not practical for our purposes, but the engine and powertrain is phenomenal.

    If I could find a Golf Sportwagen TDI after this mess, I'd buy it.
    2025 Jetta GLI Autobahn, 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xE
  • snakeweaselsnakeweasel Member Posts: 19,592
    driver100 said:

    houdini1 said:

    "houdini1
    Don't forget that Mercedes is just a glorified Smart Car ! :D

    That is funny.

    Seriously though, I have had a rental Fusion, Cruze, Chrysler 300, BMW iX, and I have no idea how I will last until December without my Benzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz! (sorry whoever was offended by using that name)



    Did you spell it Benzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz because it makes you sleepy?

    2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D

  • snakeweaselsnakeweasel Member Posts: 19,592
    driver100 said:

    berri said:

    Driver, I think the 300 has drive by wire, so you smart to get out of it since it could be warning of a computer system failure. Incidentally, a United Airbus had an issue like that which ran it off the taxiway in Denver the other day.

    I forgot about that. It did go through my mind that if it was ps fluid, it would be more constant. I thought at one point I should call and have them pick up the car....if I hit a car or someone because of this steering it could be my fault for driving it knowing it wasn't right.....and I would have to prove there was a malfunction.

    Another thought was, I don't know how much this car is worth, say $38k, I think I would rather pay say $45k for a 328, A4 or C Class that I know has a much better chance of being designed right. I have heard people balk at paying $45k for a car....but, at least you aren't throwing away $38k on something not really made right.
    When you mass produce anything there will be the occasional product that gets through that doesn't perform right. Paying more doesn't make that go away. If anything when you pay more you are getting a more complected product so you could very well have a better chance of some type of failure.

    2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    edited September 2016
    "snakeweasel"



    "snakeweasel"
    Did you spell it Benzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz because it makes you sleepy?


    No, I spelled it like that because there is nothing else like it, it is special, so it is a Benzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz, not to be confused with say a Foooooooooooorrrrrrrrrrrrdddddddddddddddddd or Chryslerrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr,
    which I have had lately as rentals.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594

    driver100 said:

    berri said:

    Driver, I think the 300 has drive by wire, so you smart to get out of it since it could be warning of a computer system failure. Incidentally, a United Airbus had an issue like that which ran it off the taxiway in Denver the other day.

    I forgot about that. It did go through my mind that if it was ps fluid, it would be more constant. I thought at one point I should call and have them pick up the car....if I hit a car or someone because of this steering it could be my fault for driving it knowing it wasn't right.....and I would have to prove there was a malfunction.

    Another thought was, I don't know how much this car is worth, say $38k, I think I would rather pay say $45k for a 328, A4 or C Class that I know has a much better chance of being designed right. I have heard people balk at paying $45k for a car....but, at least you aren't throwing away $38k on something not really made right.
    When you mass produce anything there will be the occasional product that gets through that doesn't perform right. Paying more doesn't make that go away. If anything when you pay more you are getting a more complected product so you could very well have a better chance of some type of failure.
    I think there is truth to that, but, although you pay more, and it is more complicated so it may break down - think power windows as an example - you are getting more substance and a more enjoyable product for your money.

    If my brother is buying a camera he will check four makes, then choose the cheapest. If he is buying a car he will check 2 or 3 and buy the cheapest. His research consists of finding the cheapest possible product. He chooses restaurant meals the same way. I choose what I really like and want, but, that I can still afford. Food, cameras, cars anything are more than getting my moneys worth...they are also how much enjoyment I will get from it.

    If a really nice car costs $6000 more, I would try to buy it and pay the extra $2000 a year to buy it, and get maximum enjoyment from it. Life is limited, enjoy it to the max!

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • qbrozenqbrozen Member Posts: 33,740
    sda said:
    Question for those who recently bought a TDI in anticipation of profiting. Now that you have a TDI, assuming there wasn't a settlement but you just bought the car like any other, do you like the TDI? Would you keep it long term or do you prefer a gasoline powered vehicle? What do you like, what don't you about the TDI?
    I like the engine. That's about it. Transmission is real sluggish off the line but OK once underway. It is roomy in the back for the kids. No way I could keep it long term due to not being comfy in it though.

    '11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S

  • explorerx4explorerx4 Member Posts: 20,742
    @driver100,
    You are buying an Average White Benzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz (70's musical reference) :)
    2024 Ford F-150 STX, 2023 Ford Explorer ST, 91 Mustang GT vert
  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594

    @driver100,
    You are buying an Average White Benzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz (70's musical reference) :)

    I am not sure about that one, but there was this one:
    https://youtu.be/7tGuJ34062s


    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • fordfoolfordfool Member Posts: 240



    The rear rack is for golf clubs, right! Understandably, there is no license
    plate frame because it's not meant to be driven off of the course. :D
  • oldfarmer50oldfarmer50 Member Posts: 24,224
    driver100 said:

    That steering in the Chryco 300 felt pretty dangerous today. It happens about every 5 miles, I am driving along and then the car wants to veer in the opposite direction....only lasts about 4 or 5 seconds. I have to hang onto the wheel tight with 2 hands, and pull it back on track. It feels like the wheels got caught in a streetcar track and want to go on their own.

    I switched the 300 for an X1. Talk about firm steering....feels like there is no power steering, but, I am getting used to it after the loosey goosey 300. Annoying that I can't switch off the off on ignition. Interior is pretty basic, but, the X1 is solid, it is engineered right, it feels light years ahead of the 300 - and it has 28k miles on it compared to 6k on the 300.

    Discount thinks it is low on power steering fluid....but, only 6k miles!

    The way people treat rental car it's probably because someone DID drive on railroad tracks.

    2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible

  • jmonroejmonroe Member Posts: 8,989
    driver100 said:

    driver100 said:

    berri said:

    Driver, I think the 300 has drive by wire, so you smart to get out of it since it could be warning of a computer system failure. Incidentally, a United Airbus had an issue like that which ran it off the taxiway in Denver the other day.

    I forgot about that. It did go through my mind that if it was ps fluid, it would be more constant. I thought at one point I should call and have them pick up the car....if I hit a car or someone because of this steering it could be my fault for driving it knowing it wasn't right.....and I would have to prove there was a malfunction.

    Another thought was, I don't know how much this car is worth, say $38k, I think I would rather pay say $45k for a 328, A4 or C Class that I know has a much better chance of being designed right. I have heard people balk at paying $45k for a car....but, at least you aren't throwing away $38k on something not really made right.
    When you mass produce anything there will be the occasional product that gets through that doesn't perform right. Paying more doesn't make that go away. If anything when you pay more you are getting a more complected product so you could very well have a better chance of some type of failure.
    I think there is truth to that, but, although you pay more, and it is more complicated so it may break down - think power windows as an example - you are getting more substance and a more enjoyable product for your money.

    If my brother is buying a camera he will check four makes, then choose the cheapest. If he is buying a car he will check 2 or 3 and buy the cheapest. His research consists of finding the cheapest possible product. He chooses restaurant meals the same way. I choose what I really like and want, but, that I can still afford. Food, cameras, cars anything are more than getting my moneys worth...they are also how much enjoyment I will get from it.

    If a really nice car costs $6000 more, I would try to buy it and pay the extra $2000 a year to buy it, and get maximum enjoyment from it. Life is limited, enjoy it to the max!

    You mention power windows and everyone today has them and they are pretty darn reliable. I don't remember anyone lately complaining about them but that was not the case years ago.

    In 1966 I bought my first new car, a Bonneville 2 door hardtop that had power windows. The window sticker showed them as a $107 adder, the full MSRP was $4007 even. When I'm at the negotiating table I told the salesman to order me one just like it but not with power windows because back then they were known to be troublesome. The salesman didn't want to do that just because of the windows and said something like, "will you buy this car today if I only charge you my cost for the windows"? I said that depends on what your cost is and he said $55. So I bought the car.

    About 2 months later when I put down the right rear window it went down but it came off the track and when I got home I had to use two sticks to finagle the track back in place. This was not the common problem. The common problem was the motor burning out back in those days. To help remind me to be careful not to put that window down too far, I used a piece of duct tape to hold a small block of wood to the top inside of the window. It wasn't very fashionable but it worked for a few weeks before I could get the car to the dealer waaay on the other side of the Burgh from the suburb I lived in. Like I said not fashionable but it sure did get comments when I parked the car in various parking lots including at work. I couldn't count how many people asked, "what's that on your window"? When I explained it to them almost all of them said, "yeah, I guess they're nice when they work but I don't think I'd want to live with them until they become more reliable".

    The first I remember seeing power windows was back in the early 50's on Cadillac's, Lincoln's, Imperial's, Packard's etc. not on the run of the mill everyday cars.

    I don't think anyone would want a car today without power windows and I'd be at the top of that list. Heck, most people today don't even want to hold their finger on the button to lower and raise the window. They want the one push/pull style to operate the windows. I guess they need those fingers ready to operate their phones.

    Life can't exist today without multi-tasking.

    jmonroe

    '15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl

  • houdini1houdini1 Member Posts: 8,351
    edited September 2016
    fordfool said:


    The rear rack is for golf clubs, right! Understandably, there is no license
    plate frame because it's not meant to be driven off of the course. :D

    The only way I would drive that thing is if everyone else had to drive one too ! At least it looks like it has an escape hatch in the roof.

    2013 LX 570 2016 LS 460

  • houdini1houdini1 Member Posts: 8,351
    Air conditioning. I'm old, but years ago one of my old bosses was telling me about some of his exploits when he was younger. His company car had one of those units that you hung on the outside of your window, rolled the window up on a flange and held it in place. He had a few drinks one night in Phoenix and forgot and rolled the window down. Crash! He said the last time he saw the "air conditioner", it was bouncing down the road behind him.

    2013 LX 570 2016 LS 460

  • js06gvjs06gv Member Posts: 460


    It was Discount. It just happened that when I called in they had the X1 getting washed and almost ready to go. I imagine they didn't want to fool around when there was a steering problem. The guy said I see you had an E400, so I can give you this X1.
    No blind spot warning and no rear camera, but, it is solid as a rock.

    The fact that ANY BMW these days comes without a backup camera is just ridiculous.

    2024 Ram 1500 Longhorn, 2019 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2019 Ford Mustang GT Premium, 2016 Kia Optima SX, 2000 Pontiac Trans Am WS6

  • jmonroejmonroe Member Posts: 8,989
    houdini1 said:

    Air conditioning. I'm old, but years ago one of my old bosses was telling me about some of his exploits when he was younger. His company car had one of those units that you hung on the outside of your window, rolled the window up on a flange and held it in place. He had a few drinks one night in Phoenix and forgot and rolled the window down. Crash! He said the last time he saw the "air conditioner", it was bouncing down the road behind him.

    I never heard of a window A/C in a car. That must have been a real sight.

    I appoint @driver100 to go fetch a pic of this.

    jmonroe

    '15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl

  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 18,347
    edited September 2016
    My 2er doesn't have one; if you need one for that model I'd suggest using public transit.

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
    Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
    Son's: 2018 330i xDrive

  • berriberri Member Posts: 10,165
    edited September 2016
    Anyone else getting a pop up for mono.vizo.com wanting to tag and track you on this site. I'm getting it on two different computers and only for this website. It is called smart_tag.js
  • jmonroejmonroe Member Posts: 8,989
    js06gv said:



    It was Discount. It just happened that when I called in they had the X1 getting washed and almost ready to go. I imagine they didn't want to fool around when there was a steering problem. The guy said I see you had an E400, so I can give you this X1.
    No blind spot warning and no rear camera, but, it is solid as a rock.

    The fact that ANY BMW these days comes without a backup camera is just ridiculous.



    I was thinking the same about that.

    I doubt that model is a true Ultimate Driving Machine by todays standards.

    jmonroe

    '15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl

  • jmonroejmonroe Member Posts: 8,989
    berri said:

    Anyone else getting a pop up for mono.vizo.com wanting to tag and track you on this site. I'm getting it on two different computers and only for this website.

    Not me. At least not yet. It could be a dues thing. ;)

    jmonroe

    '15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl

  • berriberri Member Posts: 10,165
    It is weird. The name is called smart_tag.js . I get it both on a Windows 10 and a Windows 7 computer using Edge or Explorer 11 respectively. Does not respond to any virus or adware software, nor CC Cleaner.
  • steverstever Guest Posts: 52,454
    edited September 2016
    Sounds like it may be some tracking software and some say it's a virus. Didn't nose around but for a few seconds but found this.
  • js06gvjs06gv Member Posts: 460

    My 2er doesn't have one; if you need one for that model I'd suggest using public transit.

    I know from previous comments that you think the addition of modern safety equipment turns cars into sissy mobiles, but I'm not talking about a rear cam from a "need" standpoint. They are about to become mandatory as standard equipment on every vehicle (can't remember in which year, but it's soon). To me, that a premium manufacturer doesn't just build them in ahead of time before they are forced to do so is the ridiculous part. It's similar to when dual airbags weren't mandated until 1997 (really 1994, but the Feds let manufacturers choose to linger on for 3 more years with one bag and an "automatic" belt for the passenger) Several companies, Mercedes and BMW included, got ahead of the curve and installed dual bags sooner.

    2024 Ram 1500 Longhorn, 2019 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2019 Ford Mustang GT Premium, 2016 Kia Optima SX, 2000 Pontiac Trans Am WS6

  • oldfarmer50oldfarmer50 Member Posts: 24,224

    2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible

  • berriberri Member Posts: 10,165
    Well, forgot about system restore. Gave it a try and so far, so good. I guess we'll see...
This discussion has been closed.