I used the wearever rotors from Advance. They have a 1 year warranty I think. They seem to work much better than the stock ones. Or maybe just much better than the old warpy rotors. Whatever, I'm pleased with the results I got from my Civic and Accord.
I have a radar detector but I quit using them a few years ago. When I'm REALLY speeding, my eyes and "speeding rules" have worked for me for the past 3 years. I didn't really notice the speed or for that matter what the limit was. Glad it was 70. I was just travelling at a comfortable speed. When I speed I'm talking at least 90, I'm usually at 80 at the end of the onramp.
Luckily no points or anything in Ga until 15 over.
In Ga and Florida you can usually run 90 and higher by following my "speeding rules": 1. Never speed over the crest of a blind hill. 2. Never speed alone or in front. 3. Never speed when the center median is forested. 4. Keep a keen eye on the oncoming traffic. 5. Keep a keen eye out for other driver's brake lights.
If you follow those rules, you are usually safe. Even from vascar and laser. My reasoning is that if they can see you, you can see them.
I've never gotten a ticket while I was purposely exceeding the speed limit. Just during the "down time" when I'm not actively looking for enforcement.
Whilst errand running yesterday, we went to the local garden store, which happens to be across the street from the Chrysler / Dodge / Jeep store.
They had a Crossfire roadster on the lot, so I convinced my wife to stop and take a quick look - she had seen one a couple of weeks ago with the top down and had commented favorably on its looks.
This one on the lot was a leftover '05 model - triple black (exterior, interior and top) with cloth seats and a 6-speed manual. The car was locked and the dealership closed (as are all car dealers in CO on Sunday), and the Monroney sticker was on the floor, so I don't know what other options it may or may not have.
However, I did see an MSRP of $35K.
The wife liked the looks of the interior, so that's a plus.
Am thinking of going back one day this week to see if I fit comfortably, both with the top up and the top down.
Am also thinking that since we're out and the Ford dealer is next door to the Chrysler dealer, that we'd check out the Mustang convertible as well.
This is still a pipe dream, but hey, it can't hurt to look, can it?
FWIW, I did a bit of research ... new '05 Crossfire coupes with less than 50 miles on them are being offered at a different dealer for $25-27K, so I'm thinking that something around $28-30K might be the right price for the roadster.
EDIT: gee, based on your rules, when exactly are the conditions right to speed? I can't think of too many places (in GA) where there isn't a forested median or blind hills that you can't see beyond.
Here in the west, there are plenty of places where the vistas stretch for miles, and 10 over is pretty much the rule on the rural interstates where the limit is already set at 75.
On most interstates. There are places where there are trees and such, but now that they have started widening the highays to 3 or 4 lanes statewide, they are running out of room.
If you're only going to use it for going back and forth to work and the occasional weekend trip with just the wife, the Crossfire sounds fun. However, one of my friends who's a golfer, said a guy he works with bought one and when he goes to the course, he has to strap his clubs into the front seatbelt because the trunk is too small to accomodate them.
Moreover, he's already ruined two tires on it and that's cost him almost $1000. The latest word from James is that the guy wrecked the car (hit a police car :P ) and it took something like six weeks to get repair parts.
I imagine it's just Murphy's law working itself out on this guy, but I just don't know if the benefits outweigh the risks, especially when there are other options such as the Mustang GT, which would be much easier to maintain, and get you a lot more car for the money.
You left out one "rule" that I feel is important, and has saved me on several occasions...
6. Stay in the right-hand lane whenever possible.
A lot of people driving fast (80+MPH) will just stay in the left lane, since they pass lots of cars and aren't being passed themselves. However, this makes them vulnerable to being pulled over.
Logically, cops are more likely to use their radar on cars driving in the left lane, since these vehicles are overtaking slower cars on the right, and therefore driving faster.
If two cars are approaching (one in the left lane, on in the right lane) and the cop only has time to clock one, which car do you think he's going to choose?
Even if there is only a short distance between slower cars, I will move to the right lane after passing. This minimizes the time I'm in the left lane, looking like I'm speeding.
Secondly, this practice can "shield" me from a cop's radar, particularly if he is in the center median. Instead of being a sitting duck in the left lane, I stay on the right (shielded behind other vehicles/semis) until I need to pass.
Geez... let's see... I had my volvo for over 4.5 years and 85k miles, the longest I've ever owned and driven a primary vehicle.
Then I bought the 190E as a 3rd car ... that stayed with us for about 6 months, then I sold it and bought the 350Z. Held onto it for a whole 8 months before trading out of that into the Lincoln LS. Now, after just 7.5 months in the Lincoln, I've traded it on a new '06 Accord 6-speed sedan.
If it weren't for the fact that we'll be getting far better gas mileage than the Lincoln and the fact that the baby's seat fits better in the back of the Accord, my wife would be ready for a divorce. Of course, its for those 2 reasons I told her I wanted to trade.
And I leased this time. I always swore I would never lease again, but I think it might work this time. Or at least I hope it might work this time. At the very least, I know I'm guaranteed something different 35 months from now.
So this has been a whirlwind of vehicles for me, but I guess I'm making up for those 4 years with the same vehicle.
'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
I, too, thought about the size of the trunk. I'm also a golfer and having enough room for my clubs is a big issue. It's also interesting to note the issues with the tires - while I like the look of the 18" and 19" tires, I figured that replacing them would cost some major $$$$.
Wouldn't the Mustang also be cheaper to insure as it seats 4?
For me, a V6 convertible would be just fine - 210HP would suffice. ABS/TC would be a must here in CO, but having looked through the dealer inventory, it seems as if that option is pretty hard to find.
The ones I've seen around here sticker for $25-27K, but as I qualify for X-plan, I figure a transaction price of $23-25K might work. This is many thousands less than the Crossfire.
The wife, however, also likes the VW New Beetle cabrio.
Stickguy ... I did trade the Lincoln, and I DID get a tax break on the lease! I couldn't figure out how they were working out the payments so low when they were really giving me a low bid on my trade, but when I talked to the F&I guy about it, he told me I'm paying no tax because of my trade!
I told him how I heard this didn't work on leases, and I believe he said something about it being a fairly new deal in NJ.
'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
all I needed, another inticement to trade my car in!
I might be driving something different on a lease if they had offered this when I was shopping (back in December). Of course, the salesperson I talked to could have been wrong, but he was pretty confident (and I think the finance guy confirmed it for him).
I remember the deal you mentioned. Wasn't it around $300/mo with little down? Nice car for that price.
The biggest incnetive to a lease right now for me is my son. He learns to drive next year, so I wouldn't mind teaching him on a clutch that I am going to return anyway!
There seem to be some strong lese programs now. Volvo is pushing the S60 2.5T. One dealer was at about $219/mo. with 1K down.
You got the Accord? What color? Did you spring for the NAV? The 6-speed sedan comes with 17" wheels & all the other goodies (leather, S/R, etc)? What do you think so far?
Well I'm not the best at Typing, but I will do my best to explain, we are a younger family in need we posted a few adds as a last resort. We posted ads trying to find a donated car. We have had situation out of are control and have lost allot and trying to survive with are 2 kids and one on the way.
We called places that take donated cars and asked for help but they don't donate them back I guess, posted ads only to be ridiculed and put down. Finally a good thing happened we were gifted 1500 to buy a car. After having new cars trying to find something for that price has been very tuff, when you are trying to find something that will not break down, We looked at so many cars and found 1 in beacon hill from a persona named corky. The car is a 1989 Nissan sentra they clamed it was the best car and said they wanted to help us so much to get on are feet we talk for about a week she claimed they new people who worked for Seattle PI, and told us to make a list of what we needed to live and for our children.
They drove the car out to us I did not understand why the car was so much more then any car the same make and year they said because it was the best. I made sure to tell them this is every penny we have and we need a car that will do the best it can for us. Corky acted so nice and sweet and helpful and all that good stuff.
We did the deal I drove the car and checked it out the best I could. After I gave them the money they said they would call a friend at the Seattle PI and get started on getting us some help. They drove off and I got into the car to pull it forward to park it when I got out I looked back only to see the tyranny fluid on the ground I was shocked I wanted to scream cry as I feel I was so worked and lied to and now my family and I are in trouble now even worse due to we gave them every penny we had, then to be scammed. I called them right away they would not answer the phone then I left a message. I got an email back from them, YA know the people that came across as good people helpful willing to do anything for us. Remember its only been about 5 min since they left....The email said "I must have done something to it and that & I bought a used car and that's it". They totally lied to us and let us down and made us feel we had hope. All we have tried to do is get back on track only to be scammed out of all our money we found out the car is worth about $700 so now I know why they went out of their way. I cry now I don't know what to do I feel so let down. They acted like totally different people from the week of talking, to the email after they left. I just don't get why when you are so down trying to do you best and want to succeed why people would have to lie and cheat you, We are in the same boat and I'm very tired I keep trying if anyone can help us please let us know we are good ppl. They made it seem like we were going to get help and they had all the contacts of people to get us help. Its taken allot of pride to ask for help. I was truthful and we are in need only to be kicked when we are down.
I did not spring for the Nav. I figured it would have added about $40/mo to the payment, and its just not worth it.
I wound up with Silver because it was the ONLY one they had on the lot. I was really up in the air with color anyway because I wanted black on black, but only the coupe comes in that combo. The Carbon Bronze looks nice on paper, but I never saw one in person, so I can't be sure. The silver is incredibly bland, but I did get my black interior with it, and that's where I need to spend my time, so I'm fine with it.
Yes, the EX comes loaded up. The only feature we will miss from the Lincoln is the cooled seats. Otherwise, the Accord is faster, more comfortable (shockingly), has a better stereo, and (of course) is far better on gas. I have been taking it easy on it so far. It is a lease, but who knows? maybe I'll actually buy it in the end, so I want to make sure its in good shape. After a few hundred miles, I'll let 'er rip. I have test driven others in the past, so I know what it can do. Quite an impressive sport sedan for the money (heck, it still holds its own against more expensive cars).
'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
I understand your need to vent, and I sympathize with a family that is going through tough times, but I don't see why you are posting in this particular forum.
'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
Call the Legal Aid where you are & see what they say. Also find out if there's a Lemon Law in your state that applies to Used transactions.
Depending on "how nice the seller acts" when buying a used anything, is pretty crazy, esp. if you know nothing about what you're buying. Why didn't you spend $50 to have a mechanic check it out before purchase? Or ask advice here before you did the deal?
All the stuff about how needy you are--all the more reason to use common sense & do your homework. Whining about your situation--isn't gonna get most people to help you--unfortunately it will also bring out scam artists who think you're clueless, & an "easy mark". (I'm assuming the post is "for real").
No, not for me. My SIL wants a new car (SUV), and my BIL seems to be having trouble finding one in his area of boondocks NY, so he was thinking about having me find one down here, and he would wander down to pick it up.
For some reason, they seem to have settled on the new Yukon Denali. Had a nice one sitting right out front the dealer, but I managed to get ignored. Wasn't pounced on while scoping it out, and was roundly ignored for 5 minutes while I stood next to the (empty) recetionist desk.
Guess all the Pontiac/GMC salespeople are too busy at 10:30 on a Tuesday to say hello, so I walked out.
Did see the Chevy equivilant down the road (a Tahoe LTZ). This one had an eye-popping MSRP of over $52,000. The sheer depreciation potential is mind boggling.
But, as a vehicle, much nicer than the old one. Excellent front seats, nice steering wheel and upscale dashboard. Odd though that it just had buckets in the middle row, but no console?
Also dissappointed on the skimpy cargo area. Next to nothing with the seats up, and not great with them folding, since they have to flip up, leaving a bunch of open seat track/attachment points on the floor.
Didn't bother to drive it since I would never own one.
Oh, and the mileage on the 5.3l was a snazzy 15/21, and the 6.1l GMC was a wonderful 14/19.
Finally, they were a pain to get in and out of, and it was hard to avoid rubbing on the running boards.
I don't know, but I just don't see the attraction, unless you need to tow a large trailer or boat, expecially at these prices (I know, wait for the rebates..)
I'll have to convince him to get a Lexus GX470 instead. It even costs less!
I will agree with you on the Denali .. my sister just unloaded her '03 ('04?) Denali and the rear seats just plain suck. Yeah, they fold up (and split, so one side could be folded while the other was still available), but not out of the way. I like the Expedition much better in that regard.
My sister reported that she averaged about 12MPG in around town driving .. I don't know if they had the 6.0L or the 5.3L V8.
I think they bought it for something between $45-50K and unloaded it in trade for a Pilot --- she doesn't know how much she got for it (personally, I don't think she wants to know) but she owed around $35K on the original note.
Unless your SIL and BIL have lots of kids or tow a large trailer of some sort, I cannot for the life of me imagine why they would want a large SUV.
Horses for courses, or something like that.
Been checking out affordable convertibles in my spare time - I had totally forgotten about the Mini Cooper. However, when I start to price out an "S" model with some of the goodies that I would want, the price spirals into the upper 20's.
By comparison, the Mustang seems to be more car for less money ... and it takes regular unleaded versus the premium the Mini requires!
there is still the PT cruiser too if that floats your boat.
As to the SUV, no kids yet, and no large trailers (plus they have a PU to tow the small one). She just likes the SUV style, plus they live in the country and get a fair amount of snow, so a 4WD isn't totally useless.
They have an MDX now, so I imagine moving to a Tahoe is going to be quite a different feel.
Yeah, I took a look at the PT ... wife likes it, I'm not so sure it's for me as a daily driver -- a little too 'cute' for my tastes.
Like the Mini, once you get the one with some power (GT model, 220HP), you're pushing $30K. Granted, I qualify for the supplier discount with DC - in fact, I get the supplier discount for all the domestics - so for the PT, it would be invoice minus 1%, or somewhere around $27K.
I guess I just like the 'aggressiveness' of the Mustang.
have you considered the Solara convertible? Look great to me, very Lexus like. Toyota reliability, but also get pricey with options, another Toyota trait.
Agree with you on the PT, just a little to cutesy for me. Probably look good park out in front of the sorority house. :P
2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Limited Velvet Red over Wicker Beige
2024 Audi Q5 Premium Plus Daytona Gray over Beige
2017 BMW X1 Jet Black over Mocha
As a VW driver, I am a bit partial to them. However, we were at the dealership yesterday for an oil change and I noticed something interesting. The fuel mileage figures for a New Beetle Convertible were lower than for our Passat 2.0T :confuse: I'd never thought it would be that way.
The downside to the beetle is that if you're into the "macho" image, it ain't happenin! The Stang is stylish. The Beetle is "cute". But here's another idea.
I say since you live in Colorado and play golf and you're planning on going to the Ford dealer anyway, take a look at a new F-150 SuperCrew. Sure the mileage is lousy, but you can carry three of your buddies to the scramble this Saturday and have plenty of room for all your clubs, plus a big cooler for whatever your preferred beverage might be, and if you own your own cart you can tow it to the golf course. AND right now with all the rebates, the starting price on the SuperCrew is comparable with the price of the Mustang.
6-speed silver Accord? Nice. We have toyed with the idea of selling our Civic and leasing a new 6-speed. The way the deals on the Accord are now the proceeds from the Civic would almost pay the Accord note for the lease term. But Gee wants to wait and see what the 08 Accord will look like ......
We managed to get 15 boxes of laminate flooring in the Civic yesterday for a total of 450lbs or so + Gee's 200lbs. It was a low-rider but Gee was able to keep the AC on and still make it up the hills so we were pretty impressed. We still have 15 more boxes to pix up and then Project Basement will be complete.
My sentiments exactly. Though with a Ridgeline we could've gotten all of the laminate and underlayment at once instead of stuffing the Accord's trunk with underlayment and the Civic with half the flooring. But then again a Ridgeline is $30,000 .. our Civic was $3500 and gets 35 MPG instead of 17/23 MPG.
We owned a New Beetle for a number of years, so I'm totally familiar with the 'cute' issue associated with them.
Regarding your suggestion on the F-150 -- I'm not much of a truck guy, but I do like your logic with the guys and the clubs and the cooler and pulling the cart.
Maybe a used 3-series would work, but I'm actually partial to the A4 Cabrio myself.
If the G6 cabrio came with a 5-speed (either manual or auto), I'd be more interested, but they want $30K for those as well when they come out.
I read somewhere (C&D?) that VW was coming out with a new Cario based on the Jetta platform. It looked alot more manley that the previous Cabrio.I think it was coming out this year. Althouh with VW's reliability reputaion I don't think I would take a chance on a first year model.
I always thought a used Sebring was good value, and they did make them with a stick, but they were few and far between.
But Gee wants to wait and see what the 08 Accord will look like ......
Man, if I thought like that, I would NEVER buy a vehicle again! There is ALWAYS something on the horizon that has my interest.
Coincidentally enough, I was pondering with waiting for the EOS to arrive. But I figure that would never come close to the lease deal I got on the Accord.
'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
Eos will be $30K as well, so I doubt there will be any super bargains at the beginning. My money's on that car to take over the #1 spot from Sebring among convertibles. What do you think? Does it stand a chance?
Meanwhile, I can't wait to drive the new Golf in the summer.
2014 Mini Cooper (stick shift of course), 2016 Camry hybrid, 2009 Outback Sport 5-spd (keeping the stick alive)
I've seen the preview article on the Eos .. my understanding is that it will start around $30K and be equipped with the 2.0T engine found in the GTI, GLI, A3, A4 and Passat.
Not sure what platform it is based on. I do know that it intrigues me since it will be one of two hard top convertibles (the Pontiac G6 being the other) that will price out under or around $30K.
Stopped at the Ford dealer at lunch to sit in a Mustang convertible ... unlike the Saturn Sky, I fit in it, both with the top up and the top down.
Not much in the way of rear legroom, but I suppose if it's big enough to hold my golf clubs....
May have to take the wife to the dealer this weekend and take a closer look.
So would I, if I could have. Those silly laws prevent me from installing a carseat in the hatch area, though. ;b
The "evil" part of me wishes I'd bought a Z instead of the Maxima, that way episodes like the incident last weekend would never happen.
We (son, dog, wife) happened to be tooling around in my car intead of the family truckster (Explorer, aka The Valdez), when pregnant wifey proclaims she 'needs' ice cream. I wince, but we do it anyway, and sure enough the 2 YO spills his "twist in a cup" all over the Maxima's seats.
The dog I don't mind, BTW. She's a 6 YO Boston Terrier, and just sleeps on the floor.
If I had bought the Z, we'd have a bit less family transportation flexibility, but at least I know my car wouldn't be violated with toddlers bearing ice cream.
If I had bought the Z, we'd have a bit less family transportation flexibility, but at least I know my car wouldn't be violated with toddlers bearing ice cream.
Believe me, there are FAR worse things a toddler (or any kid for that matter) can violate a car with....far worse, lol.
The last time my dog got to ride anywhere inside a vehicle was in my brand new at the time 2004 Explorer, she threw up about 10 times all over the back seat. We took the back seats out, brought them in the house, shampooed them, cleaned the carpet in the Explorer, put everything back together. Seats had a yellowish stain and the truck never did smell right again.........got rid of it a few weeks later. :sick:
The last time my dog got to ride anywhere inside a vehicle was in my brand new at the time 2004 Explorer, she threw up about 10 times all over the back seat.
I have another gross one for you.
In the 80s my old man bought a brand new Renault LeCar. He seriously had not had the thing for a whole week when I vomited a banana split all over the back seat/floor. The following summer, the car would heat up, and you'd catch a whiff of a nasty rotten milk/banana combo that was just atrocious. The brief time he had that car, he drove with the windows permanently down.
That was all the excuse he needed to dump that car within 18 months. Yeah, I inherited my CCBness from him, and Garrett the 2 YO is the same way. We went to the local auto show last January, and he had to sit in every car.
I 2nd the advice to at least check out the Solara convertible. I haven't driven one, but I looked at a couple on the lot, & the leather interiors looked beautiful. Should have great resale, I'm guessing?
PT......wouldn't interest me, they just look goofy IMO. Mini convertible, I dunno....but most of the the Mustang convertibles I've seen looked great, & domestics usually don't interest me much (except for the Corvette). Would you get a 6, or V8? Stick?
I guess it's a really good excuse to get rid of a car. Say your spouse won't let you get a new car.......just feed the kids or the dog a lot of junk food, then drive around with them awhile in the old car & let "nature take it's course".
I have a really bad car puking story, involving my first car, when I was 16 years old, but.....let's just say that car was never the same. (I also wrecked the transmission, & seized up the engine by running it with almost no oil--not good). My dad was surprisingly cool about it all. It's amazing that I turned into such a perfectionist (anal?) with my cars......
just feed the kids or the dog a lot of junk food, then drive around with them awhile in the old car & let "nature take it's course".
What a great idea! This whole barfing thread reminds me of the Seinfeld episode where Jerry had the Volvo with the weird smell. Remember, he left the windows down and the keys in the car and the would be car theif wouldn't even take it!
That would be my fear. You take it in to the dealer to trade it and the guy passes out from the odor. Do you reckon Edmunds could add a category in the appraiser to take off value for "unusual odors"? :confuse:
If I were to go forward on the Mustang, I'm thinking V6 ... doesn't matter what kind of tranny. I'd probably have to drive the stick to see if I like it. I'm so used to the 'snick snick' of the Focus 5 speed that I'm not sure I would want to drive something that felt heavier.
Our 2 year old has left a slight mark on our Accord. There are a couple of milk spots on the rear seat that I can't seem to get out. I will try some more heavy duty cleaner soon to see if that works. On the whole though the Accord is in pretty good shape for a 2 year old car with 40k that has served as the baby hauler for the last year or so.
Comments
Luckily no points or anything in Ga until 15 over.
1. Never speed over the crest of a blind hill.
2. Never speed alone or in front.
3. Never speed when the center median is forested.
4. Keep a keen eye on the oncoming traffic.
5. Keep a keen eye out for other driver's brake lights.
If you follow those rules, you are usually safe. Even from vascar and laser. My reasoning is that if they can see you, you can see them.
I've never gotten a ticket while I was purposely exceeding the speed limit. Just during the "down time" when I'm not actively looking for enforcement.
They had a Crossfire roadster on the lot, so I convinced my wife to stop and take a quick look - she had seen one a couple of weeks ago with the top down and had commented favorably on its looks.
This one on the lot was a leftover '05 model - triple black (exterior, interior and top) with cloth seats and a 6-speed manual. The car was locked and the dealership closed (as are all car dealers in CO on Sunday), and the Monroney sticker was on the floor, so I don't know what other options it may or may not have.
However, I did see an MSRP of $35K.
The wife liked the looks of the interior, so that's a plus.
Am thinking of going back one day this week to see if I fit comfortably, both with the top up and the top down.
Am also thinking that since we're out and the Ford dealer is next door to the Chrysler dealer, that we'd check out the Mustang convertible as well.
This is still a pipe dream, but hey, it can't hurt to look, can it?
FWIW, I did a bit of research ... new '05 Crossfire coupes with less than 50 miles on them are being offered at a different dealer for $25-27K, so I'm thinking that something around $28-30K might be the right price for the roadster.
EDIT: gee, based on your rules, when exactly are the conditions right to speed? I can't think of too many places (in GA) where there isn't a forested median or blind hills that you can't see beyond.
Here in the west, there are plenty of places where the vistas stretch for miles, and 10 over is pretty much the rule on the rural interstates where the limit is already set at 75.
Moreover, he's already ruined two tires on it and that's cost him almost $1000. The latest word from James is that the guy wrecked the car (hit a police car
I imagine it's just Murphy's law working itself out on this guy, but I just don't know if the benefits outweigh the risks, especially when there are other options such as the Mustang GT, which would be much easier to maintain, and get you a lot more car for the money.
You left out one "rule" that I feel is important, and has saved me on several occasions...
6. Stay in the right-hand lane whenever possible.
A lot of people driving fast (80+MPH) will just stay in the left lane, since they pass lots of cars and aren't being passed themselves. However, this makes them vulnerable to being pulled over.
Logically, cops are more likely to use their radar on cars driving in the left lane, since these vehicles are overtaking slower cars on the right, and therefore driving faster.
If two cars are approaching (one in the left lane, on in the right lane) and the cop only has time to clock one, which car do you think he's going to choose?
Even if there is only a short distance between slower cars, I will move to the right lane after passing. This minimizes the time I'm in the left lane, looking like I'm speeding.
Secondly, this practice can "shield" me from a cop's radar, particularly if he is in the center median. Instead of being a sitting duck in the left lane, I stay on the right (shielded behind other vehicles/semis) until I need to pass.
Then I bought the 190E as a 3rd car ... that stayed with us for about 6 months, then I sold it and bought the 350Z. Held onto it for a whole 8 months before trading out of that into the Lincoln LS. Now, after just 7.5 months in the Lincoln, I've traded it on a new '06 Accord 6-speed sedan.
If it weren't for the fact that we'll be getting far better gas mileage than the Lincoln and the fact that the baby's seat fits better in the back of the Accord, my wife would be ready for a divorce. Of course, its for those 2 reasons I told her I wanted to trade.
And I leased this time. I always swore I would never lease again, but I think it might work this time. Or at least I hope it might work this time. At the very least, I know I'm guaranteed something different 35 months from now.
So this has been a whirlwind of vehicles for me, but I guess I'm making up for those 4 years with the same vehicle.
'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
Wouldn't the Mustang also be cheaper to insure as it seats 4?
For me, a V6 convertible would be just fine - 210HP would suffice. ABS/TC would be a must here in CO, but having looked through the dealer inventory, it seems as if that option is pretty hard to find.
The ones I've seen around here sticker for $25-27K, but as I qualify for X-plan, I figure a transaction price of $23-25K might work. This is many thousands less than the Crossfire.
The wife, however, also likes the VW New Beetle cabrio.
Stickguy ... I did trade the Lincoln, and I DID get a tax break on the lease! I couldn't figure out how they were working out the payments so low when they were really giving me a low bid on my trade, but when I talked to the F&I guy about it, he told me I'm paying no tax because of my trade!
I told him how I heard this didn't work on leases, and I believe he said something about it being a fairly new deal in NJ.
'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
I might be driving something different on a lease if they had offered this when I was shopping (back in December). Of course, the salesperson I talked to could have been wrong, but he was pretty confident (and I think the finance guy confirmed it for him).
I remember the deal you mentioned. Wasn't it around $300/mo with little down? Nice car for that price.
The biggest incnetive to a lease right now for me is my son. He learns to drive next year, so I wouldn't mind teaching him on a clutch that I am going to return anyway!
There seem to be some strong lese programs now. Volvo is pushing the S60 2.5T. One dealer was at about $219/mo. with 1K down.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
Woody
We called places that take donated cars and asked for help but they don't donate them back I guess, posted ads only to be ridiculed and put down. Finally a good thing happened we were gifted 1500 to buy a car. After having new cars trying to find something for that price has been very tuff, when you are trying to find something that will not break down, We looked at so many cars and found 1 in beacon hill from a persona named corky.
The car is a 1989 Nissan sentra they clamed it was the best car and said they wanted to help us so much to get on are feet we talk for about a week she claimed they new people who worked for Seattle PI, and told us to make a list of what we needed to live and for our children.
They drove the car out to us I did not understand why the car was so much more then any car the same make and year they said because it was the best. I made sure to tell them this is every penny we have and we need a car that will do the best it can for us. Corky acted so nice and sweet and helpful and all that good stuff.
We did the deal I drove the car and checked it out the best I could. After I gave them the money they said they would call a friend at the Seattle PI and get started on getting us some help. They drove off and I got into the car to pull it forward to park it when I got out I looked back only to see the tyranny fluid on the ground I was shocked I wanted to scream cry as I feel I was so worked and lied to and now my family and I are in trouble now even worse due to we gave them every penny we had, then to be scammed. I called them right away they would not answer the phone then I left a message. I got an email back from them, YA know the people that came across as good people helpful willing to do anything for us. Remember its only been about 5 min since they left....The email said "I must have done something to it and that & I bought a used car and that's it".
They totally lied to us and let us down and made us feel we had hope. All we have tried to do is get back on track only to be scammed out of all our money we found out the car is worth about $700 so now I know why they went out of their way.
I cry now I don't know what to do I feel so let down.
They acted like totally different people from the week of talking, to the email after they left. I just don't get why when you are so down trying to do you best and want to succeed why people would have to lie and cheat you, We are in the same boat and I'm very tired I keep trying if anyone can help us please let us know we are good ppl. They made it seem like we were going to get help and they had all the contacts of people to get us help. Its taken allot of pride to ask for help. I was truthful and we are in need only to be kicked when we are down.
Chris&family
cschout@msn.com
I wound up with Silver because it was the ONLY one they had on the lot. I was really up in the air with color anyway because I wanted black on black, but only the coupe comes in that combo. The Carbon Bronze looks nice on paper, but I never saw one in person, so I can't be sure. The silver is incredibly bland, but I did get my black interior with it, and that's where I need to spend my time, so I'm fine with it.
Yes, the EX comes loaded up. The only feature we will miss from the Lincoln is the cooled seats. Otherwise, the Accord is faster, more comfortable (shockingly), has a better stereo, and (of course) is far better on gas. I have been taking it easy on it so far. It is a lease, but who knows? maybe I'll actually buy it in the end, so I want to make sure its in good shape. After a few hundred miles, I'll let 'er rip. I have test driven others in the past, so I know what it can do. Quite an impressive sport sedan for the money (heck, it still holds its own against more expensive cars).
'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
'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
Depending on "how nice the seller acts" when buying a used anything, is pretty crazy, esp. if you know nothing about what you're buying. Why didn't you spend $50 to have a mechanic check it out before purchase? Or ask advice here before you did the deal?
All the stuff about how needy you are--all the more reason to use common sense & do your homework. Whining about your situation--isn't gonna get most people to help you--unfortunately it will also bring out scam artists who think you're clueless, & an "easy mark". (I'm assuming the post is "for real").
I'd have kept the Z. :P
'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
For some reason, they seem to have settled on the new Yukon Denali. Had a nice one sitting right out front the dealer, but I managed to get ignored. Wasn't pounced on while scoping it out, and was roundly ignored for 5 minutes while I stood next to the (empty) recetionist desk.
Guess all the Pontiac/GMC salespeople are too busy at 10:30 on a Tuesday to say hello, so I walked out.
Did see the Chevy equivilant down the road (a Tahoe LTZ). This one had an eye-popping MSRP of over $52,000. The sheer depreciation potential is mind boggling.
But, as a vehicle, much nicer than the old one. Excellent front seats, nice steering wheel and upscale dashboard. Odd though that it just had buckets in the middle row, but no console?
Also dissappointed on the skimpy cargo area. Next to nothing with the seats up, and not great with them folding, since they have to flip up, leaving a bunch of open seat track/attachment points on the floor.
Didn't bother to drive it since I would never own one.
Oh, and the mileage on the 5.3l was a snazzy 15/21, and the 6.1l GMC was a wonderful 14/19.
Finally, they were a pain to get in and out of, and it was hard to avoid rubbing on the running boards.
I don't know, but I just don't see the attraction, unless you need to tow a large trailer or boat, expecially at these prices (I know, wait for the rebates..)
I'll have to convince him to get a Lexus GX470 instead. It even costs less!
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
My sister reported that she averaged about 12MPG in around town driving .. I don't know if they had the 6.0L or the 5.3L V8.
I think they bought it for something between $45-50K and unloaded it in trade for a Pilot --- she doesn't know how much she got for it (personally, I don't think she wants to know) but she owed around $35K on the original note.
Unless your SIL and BIL have lots of kids or tow a large trailer of some sort, I cannot for the life of me imagine why they would want a large SUV.
Horses for courses, or something like that.
Been checking out affordable convertibles in my spare time - I had totally forgotten about the Mini Cooper. However, when I start to price out an "S" model with some of the goodies that I would want, the price spirals into the upper 20's.
By comparison, the Mustang seems to be more car for less money ... and it takes regular unleaded versus the premium the Mini requires!
As to the SUV, no kids yet, and no large trailers (plus they have a PU to tow the small one). She just likes the SUV style, plus they live in the country and get a fair amount of snow, so a 4WD isn't totally useless.
They have an MDX now, so I imagine moving to a Tahoe is going to be quite a different feel.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
Like the Mini, once you get the one with some power (GT model, 220HP), you're pushing $30K. Granted, I qualify for the supplier discount with DC - in fact, I get the supplier discount for all the domestics - so for the PT, it would be invoice minus 1%, or somewhere around $27K.
I guess I just like the 'aggressiveness' of the Mustang.
Like it'll ever happen ....
Agree with you on the PT, just a little to cutesy for me. Probably look good park out in front of the sorority house. :P
2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Limited Velvet Red over Wicker Beige
2024 Audi Q5 Premium Plus Daytona Gray over Beige
2017 BMW X1 Jet Black over Mocha
Base price of $27K for the SE.
The downside to the beetle is that if you're into the "macho" image, it ain't happenin! The Stang is stylish. The Beetle is "cute". But here's another idea.
I say since you live in Colorado and play golf and you're planning on going to the Ford dealer anyway, take a look at a new F-150 SuperCrew. Sure the mileage is lousy, but you can carry three of your buddies to the scramble this Saturday and have plenty of room for all your clubs, plus a big cooler for whatever your preferred beverage might be, and if you own your own cart you can tow it to the golf course. AND right now with all the rebates, the starting price on the SuperCrew is comparable with the price of the Mustang.
We managed to get 15 boxes of laminate flooring in the Civic yesterday for a total of 450lbs or so + Gee's 200lbs. It was a low-rider but Gee was able to keep the AC on and still make it up the hills so we were pretty impressed. We still have 15 more boxes to pix up and then Project Basement will be complete.
I've always thought the Sebring 'vert was kinda nice. Something a guy could pull off and not feel...'funny'.
If money was no object, I'd opt for a 3 Series 'vert.
2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Limited Velvet Red over Wicker Beige
2024 Audi Q5 Premium Plus Daytona Gray over Beige
2017 BMW X1 Jet Black over Mocha
Regarding your suggestion on the F-150 -- I'm not much of a truck guy, but I do like your logic with the guys and the clubs and the cooler and pulling the cart.
Maybe a used 3-series would work, but I'm actually partial to the A4 Cabrio myself.
If the G6 cabrio came with a 5-speed (either manual or auto), I'd be more interested, but they want $30K for those as well when they come out.
I always thought a used Sebring was good value, and they did make them with a stick, but they were few and far between.
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I may be mistaken but I think it's on a modified Passat platform.
Man, if I thought like that, I would NEVER buy a vehicle again! There is ALWAYS something on the horizon that has my interest.
Coincidentally enough, I was pondering with waiting for the EOS to arrive. But I figure that would never come close to the lease deal I got on the Accord.
'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
Meanwhile, I can't wait to drive the new Golf in the summer.
2014 Mini Cooper (stick shift of course), 2016 Camry hybrid, 2009 Outback Sport 5-spd (keeping the stick alive)
Not sure what platform it is based on. I do know that it intrigues me since it will be one of two hard top convertibles (the Pontiac G6 being the other) that will price out under or around $30K.
Stopped at the Ford dealer at lunch to sit in a Mustang convertible ... unlike the Saturn Sky, I fit in it, both with the top up and the top down.
Not much in the way of rear legroom, but I suppose if it's big enough to hold my golf clubs....
May have to take the wife to the dealer this weekend and take a closer look.
'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
The "evil" part of me wishes I'd bought a Z instead of the Maxima, that way episodes like the incident last weekend would never happen.
We (son, dog, wife) happened to be tooling around in my car intead of the family truckster (Explorer, aka The Valdez), when pregnant wifey proclaims she 'needs' ice cream. I wince, but we do it anyway, and sure enough the 2 YO spills his "twist in a cup" all over the Maxima's seats.
The dog I don't mind, BTW. She's a 6 YO Boston Terrier, and just sleeps on the floor.
If I had bought the Z, we'd have a bit less family transportation flexibility, but at least I know my car wouldn't be violated with toddlers bearing ice cream.
Believe me, there are FAR worse things a toddler (or any kid for that matter) can violate a car with....far worse, lol.
The last time my dog got to ride anywhere inside a vehicle was in my brand new at the time 2004 Explorer, she threw up about 10 times all over the back seat. We took the back seats out, brought them in the house, shampooed them, cleaned the carpet in the Explorer, put everything back together. Seats had a yellowish stain and the truck never did smell right again.........got rid of it a few weeks later. :sick:
2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Limited Velvet Red over Wicker Beige
2024 Audi Q5 Premium Plus Daytona Gray over Beige
2017 BMW X1 Jet Black over Mocha
I have another gross one for you.
In the 80s my old man bought a brand new Renault LeCar. He seriously had not had the thing for a whole week when I vomited a banana split all over the back seat/floor. The following summer, the car would heat up, and you'd catch a whiff of a nasty rotten milk/banana combo that was just atrocious. The brief time he had that car, he drove with the windows permanently down.
That was all the excuse he needed to dump that car within 18 months. Yeah, I inherited my CCBness from him, and Garrett the 2 YO is the same way. We went to the local auto show last January, and he had to sit in every car.
LOL, the Explorer, the dog is still here.......laying on her bed with her kitten.
OK, I'm a dog person, but the cat's cute too (harumph!). :-P
2014 Mini Cooper (stick shift of course), 2016 Camry hybrid, 2009 Outback Sport 5-spd (keeping the stick alive)
PT......wouldn't interest me, they just look goofy IMO. Mini convertible, I dunno....but most of the the Mustang convertibles I've seen looked great, & domestics usually don't interest me much (except for the Corvette). Would you get a 6, or V8? Stick?
I have a really bad car puking story, involving my first car, when I was 16 years old, but.....let's just say that car was never the same. (I also wrecked the transmission, & seized up the engine by running it with almost no oil--not good). My dad was surprisingly cool about it all. It's amazing that I turned into such a perfectionist (anal?) with my cars......
What a great idea! This whole barfing thread reminds me of the Seinfeld episode where Jerry had the Volvo with the weird smell. Remember, he left the windows down and the keys in the car and the would be car theif wouldn't even take it!
That would be my fear. You take it in to the dealer to trade it and the guy passes out from the odor. Do you reckon Edmunds could add a category in the appraiser to take off value for "unusual odors"? :confuse: