The Highway Trust Fund has been around 57 years. The mass transit aspect has been around for 30 years - more than half the time in other words. (FHWA pdf)
There's a big constituency for those dollars (including bike riders, ferryboats, and even some intercity passenger and freight rail and airport access). Things have changed since 1956.
Let's direct 100% of the gas tax toward the purpose intended before increasing it.
I agree with you, imidazol, 100%. It seems that every time a tax is imposed or increased, it often is inappropriately spent. I have no argument with raising the fuel taxes, so long as all those funds are spent the way they were originally intended - road construction, road repair, bridge construction and repair (no more bridges built that go nowhere!).
Yes they have. Costs to fix and to build roads have increased drastically while the fuel taxes have not gone up proportionately. We need all the money for roads and repairs instead of walkways and trolleys. Indeed, a part can go to build a new I75 bridge in Cincinnati/N.Kentucky instead of making it toll.
However, if the other constituencies want money for their pet projects then they should pass taxes earmarked for those aforementioned projects instead of diverting funds for road maintenance and building. Indeed Cincinnati had started to build a short trolley rail system for a few hundred million if the third leg were to be completed to run from downtown stadiums to the top of the hill hospital complex zone--not a highly useful route to help alleviate traffic on I75 and I71 commuting into the city. Trolley's being paused/scrapped since building it with the 40$ million for the Feds (highway money?) is silly when the city is Detroit in its owing of huge amounts to the Municipal Pension Funds. Best to just run buses built to look like trolleys to make the speculators bought the rundown buildings cheap when talk of a trolley started and who are the primary constituency group supporting the trolley rail line.
Additional problem is finding a way to tax those drivers with electric vehicles or high mileage hybrids so they pay their fair share for use of our roads.
Just came from that mall that y'all walk at and it wasn't too crowded today either. Stopped by the Big Lots which is just next to the Friday's out lying the mall. They have some great prices there but one has to look and did find a few things we've been looking for at crazy cheap prices. Also got petrol, went to CVS and Walgreens and ended up at Target to return a shirt I don't remember purchasing and got the credit and then picked up a few things. All done now for the week except food shopping. Have promised the wife that I will cut down the spending now since the last two credit card bills were a little on the higher side. Now I will start putting all my work related charges on the Ink card from Chase that I will be receiving next week like she does so it'll make things easier at tax time. Sorry to hear about your illness as I know it stinks to be sick...my back has been acting up lately so maybe it's a good thing I'm not working every day. I'd be happy with every other day right now. Hopefully Hertz will let me know this week if they want me in Pembroke Pines since the job is supposed to start on the 29th of this month...man, I really want it! But will not call anymore as it's a bit over the top now to keep calling them, a bit creepy actually. I can do it, they know this...so hire me please and I'll be the best employee! Not sure what to do about USA right now...I make myself available daily for the other place but hardly get called and it ain't fair that I have to work at one exclusively so will keep at both until they push me to the wall and then I will decide. Right now, I need the $ and need to work more...end of story!
The Sandman
2023 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD (wife) / 2025 VW GTI (me) / 2019 Chevrolet Cruze Premier RS (daughter #1) / 2020 Hyundai Accent SE (daughter #2) / 2023 Subaru Impreza Base (son)
oh, hey, easy now. It could be argued I'm too old, but I fit just fine in the seats. :b
After seeing the 2015, I'm actually glad I didn't hold out. I prefer the looks of my 2013. The new one takes too many hints from the Japanese/Koreans, IMHO. Tiburon sides and GTR hood anyone?
'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
well.... not to pick nits, but there are a couple of newbies and/or infrequent posters on there who we weren't expecting way back in 2012 when we made our guesses. So 2014 will also heavily depend on how member enrollment goes through the year.
'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
When must we give in our totals? I'd think up until 11 p m on the 31st would be o k. Still crunching numbers here as now the wife wants to get a '15 model but we could actually do it the last week of 2014 which is probably what she's going to do as we like buying in November or December usually. Don't know why but that's what we do except I like the last week of the year because most folks are shopping for gifts and not really for a vehicle. The showrooms are almost empty and the GM's might be more inclined to move another unit even if it's a skinny deal, just to move another couple of units at years end. It's worked in our favor a few times in the past and both sides got what they wanted. So we'll see here and as I told the wife last week, "nothing is set in stone and we are allowed to change our minds if we choose"! I do believe this to as I changed my mind and decided not to wait until 2016 or 2017 to replace my Civic...I decided to jump a couple model years early as everything was in perfect alignment. Was out doing errands earlier and parked next to a new Escape and it is a few inches longer and wider than my Tuscon so it could've been a potential problem. Last night with both vehicles in the garage, we both saw that size wise, it's almost exactly the same as before, just a couple inches in width and length. I had to move my big black "X" on the garage wall up a couple of inches but no big deal and I can still get to the side outside door either in front or behind the Tuscon. I had told her this was going to be the case and she finally saw that yes, I was correct here. She immediately shut her mouth...but she still insists that I will be trading this new rig in in a few years on something else. Who knows here, maybe yes or maybe no. Might decide that yes, I want a sunroof or a convertible a few years down the road and if so, so what? As long as I can afford to do it, it's really my choice. I might find a job with more steady hours and decide eventually to gift myself again, have no clue as to what the future holds. Still want a job with definite hours and days so I can plan life a little more. And yes, I still would like a sunroof or a drop top eventually and thinking maybe I should've gone for the Limited Tuscon and gotten it all. But enough with the second guessing here, plan to enjoy the here and now and tomorrow will take care of itself well, tomorrow! I am done for awhile with the car game!!! Yay!
The Sandman :sick: :shades:
2023 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD (wife) / 2025 VW GTI (me) / 2019 Chevrolet Cruze Premier RS (daughter #1) / 2020 Hyundai Accent SE (daughter #2) / 2023 Subaru Impreza Base (son)
Even though the Echo was cheap, it was well-built, and ran perfectly. I would have kept it longer but a friend needed a car on short notice and had no ability to buy one.
The Yaris was poorly assembled - body panels and particularly the bumper clips didn't line up well and one of them was semi-broken, so that it would pop off and not sit flush. The outside fuel door was already giving me problems in that it wouldn't always release.
The inside was not well designed - there was only one light and you couldn't see into the back seat at all with it on. The HVAC dials were still the old rotary kind that move physical levers, and they would bind up so that you couldn't turn them smoothly.
By far the deal-killer was the e-throttle - it was mapped to rev so slowly that there was literally a second or more between hitting the pedal and the engine starting to rev. It would also rev so slowly that you had to wait longer before engaging a gear if you didn't want a lurch or a stall. It not only stole all the power, but it made my driving look like that of a rank novice with a stick when I have actually been driving stick for 25 years.
Those are just some of many issues I had with it. It rattled, it had a stiff ride that I thought would be OK when I got it, as an acceptable payoff for a well-handling car, but just became teeth-rattling and fatiguing after a while. The mileage was worse than the Echo's despite them being designed and built ten years apart, and using an engine of the same displacement. I started to think, why put up with this car when so many cars can produce mileage this good nowadays?
Then I took a look and realized just how much they would want from me to purchase it at lease end and even though that would have been the better decision financially, I just couldn't stomach the thought. Maybe this is my mid-life crisis! :-P
2014 Mini Cooper (stick shift of course), 2016 Camry hybrid, 2009 Outback Sport 5-spd (keeping the stick alive)
"Mid life crisis" is what my wife called my latest episode and subsequent purchase and if it was, so what. Now, getting that BMW drop top or the 1 Series coupe, now that would've been a mid life thing but getting a small ute? No, I don't think so it's just something I wanted to do, so I did it! Financially and logically it wasn't the best move right now but mentally, it definitely was. I've decided to not think about it anymore and after the amp goes in tomorrow, that's exactly what I am going to do.
The Sandman
2023 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD (wife) / 2025 VW GTI (me) / 2019 Chevrolet Cruze Premier RS (daughter #1) / 2020 Hyundai Accent SE (daughter #2) / 2023 Subaru Impreza Base (son)
In order to buy my new CLS550 10 days ago, rather than borrow the money I needed over and above what they gave me for the E350 Sport Sedan, my Dad was kind enough to loan me $10,000, which I promised I would pay him back once I paid off my two credit cards for $5,000 each, which I used to buy the car. It saves me about 2.4%, which is the rate I could have gotten for 60 months.
We went to the Boca Town Center Mall for our daily walk and got home about 10:00 A.M. I was bored, so I told Dad I was going over to the Casino about 2 miles away and play the 2 cent machines for awhile, or until I couldn't stand the cigarette smoke any longer.
I sat down at an interesting 2 cent machine, played 180 credits (about $3.60 a pop) since it had a progressive jackpot of $12,787.00 showing on the top part of the machine.
I played it for about 20 minutes, and...I HIT THE JACKPOT for the $12,787.00. I received the check, deposited $10,000 into Dad's account, and put the rest into my account. I had already won $800.00 on that machine, so I deposited that into my other checking account. So, I had a pretty good day - $13,587.00 - for the 20 or 30 minutes I played that machine. Best of all, I had accumulated $450.00 in "free play" credits, so I was using the casino's free play credits when I won the jackpot. Didn't have to spend a dime.
Good God, I am still shaking!!! But in April, when the tax man gets his share, I will owe about $3000 in income taxes over and above what I normally pay. So I netted just over $10,000 today. Better than working, that's for sure.
I now own my new car outright, and I owe no one any money. No more "tiger" around my neck.
2011 Toyota Camry, 2014 Jeep Wrangler, 2017 Honda Civic Coupe, 2019 Toyota Rav4 Hybrid XSE, 2021 Toyota Tundra, 2022 Toyota 4Runner, 2022 Tesla Model 3
Unbelievable! I was thinking to myself while playing the machine how nice it would be to win the progressive jackpot and pay off my debts. In order to be eligible for the progressive jackpot, you must place the maximum bet each spin. So that's what I was doing - so long as I was playing with the casino's money.
It was as if God was playing that machine with me.
Once it paid off, the progressive dropped to $2000. The casino attendant said that she expected it to pay off soon since it hadn't paid off the jackpot in 4 months. RIGHT PLACE, RIGHT TIME, RIGHT BET!
So, I think I'm starting to come to terms with the idea that my car desires are starting to shift a bit. From what I've gathered here, I think many of us have gone through similar phases.
Up until about five years ago (into my mid-30's), I was pretty hard core about manual transmissions, sport packages, etc. Always had to have a manual, was willing to take a harsher ride for sportier handling, etc.
Then I got to a point where I was able to have a daily driver and a fun car, and I started appreciating the comfortable automatic SUV I had for most driving (a CX-9), and having the fun sporty car for occasional driving (a Miata at the time).
Over the past several weeks, largely due to weather conditions, my 335xi (I don't bother to put snows on it) has been sitting in my work garage, and I've been primarily driving the stepdaughter's A3 or our Odyssey - and liking it.
Dare I say I'm starting to prefer an automatic transmission??!??
Well, I don't know. At the end of the day, if I had to pick one car, I'd still probably go for a manual - something like an Accord Sport or a Mazda6. So, comfy but engaging to drive.
But what I am realizing is that I would prefer my "main" car to be an automatic and have a "fun" car with a stick. Right now, I'm a bit reversed with my "main" 335xi being a stick and the 330ci vert being an auto.
That's not to say I'm gonna make any change quickly - I'm not like that. :P
But since it's hypothetical, here are my current mental obsessions for my next cars.
For the comfy daily driver, I'd like something roomy, with good utility, and good to great fuel efficiency:
Honda Accord (Hybrid or Sport), Mazda6, Accord Crosstour, TSX Wagon, maybe a used A4, or my favorite, a 328 GT (of course the most expensive).
For the fun car? Something fun with a stick, but still want backseats and maybe even 4 doors:
GTI, GLI, Civic Si, older 3 series
With nippon's recent posts, I'm intrigued by the Civic Si right now. That was basically my first car back in 1990 - not nearly as potent as the current version, but still good memories.
For my daily, that 328 GT really fits the bill so well, but I would want to wait for used ones to be available in the mid-$30's. That's probably a couple of years away.
We'll see - the mind is always spinning with ideas on the next members of the fleet.
Most of the folks I see playing the penny slots bet the minimum -- 30-40 cents and never have a chance to win the progressive. $3.60 a pop is right there with the 2 dollar machines. You chose wisely my friend and hit the button at precisely the right millisecond to win. I'm surprised they didn't comp you a Suite to keep you there so you could double your winnings. That's how it usually works.
I'm surprised they didn't comp you a Suite to keep you there so you could double your winnings. That's how it usually works.
They don't have a hotel there yet. They comped my account for 2 dinners for 2 people at either NYY Steak right there in the casino and their Italian restaurant. I have $350 in comps for those two meals. I am going to take Dad for dinner tomorrow night to the Italian restaurant and Saturday night at the NYY Strak House.
I see their sign every time I walk out our front door but have never ever been there...yet! Just never think to go over and play or eat there but we don't gamble and don't really know how to. I see you prefer the Town Center while I prefer Coral Square though next Sunday will be in Boca at the Apple store for another class if I don't work. Work has cut back drastically or I have as my back has been hurting a lot so maybe it's a sign from up above to relax it. Staying home tomorrow as I have plans early in the morning and the screen guy coming in the late afternoon. Will definitely make myself available for Wednesday and every day after that this week and probably the rest of the month.
The Sandman
2023 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD (wife) / 2025 VW GTI (me) / 2019 Chevrolet Cruze Premier RS (daughter #1) / 2020 Hyundai Accent SE (daughter #2) / 2023 Subaru Impreza Base (son)
I see you prefer the Town Center while I prefer Coral Square though next Sunday will be in Boca at the Apple store for another class if I don't work.
Yes, Sandy. We used to go to Coral Square, but the Boca Town Center is a longer walk and the stores are more upscale. They have Neiman's, Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom's, Macy's, Sears and Bloomingdales. Also, I frequent the new Apple Store as well. They have a Tesla store opening soon and they have a great food court including Chick-Fil-A, Dad's favorite place to have lunch each week. Parking is also better with covered parking at Neiman's/Bloomingdales, Nordstrom's, Macy's, and Saks.
We walk at a fairly brisk rate - once around takes 20-25 minutes. The mall is well maintained and the stores are beautiful. They have that new Container Store and 2 brand new Foot Lockers, one of which is their new upscale store.
As for the casino, they have great restaurants - NYY Steak is as good as Ruth's Chris. Sorisi's Italian Restaurant is out of this world. They also have a New York Style Deli. No smoking in the restaurants, thank goodness, but the casino itself is very smoky.
Ha, that's awesome! Someone was smiling on you. I've never won more than $50 on a machine. Send some of that luck my way! I hope the CLS treats you just as well.
Oh our politicians are way ahead of you. I'm sure you've heard the proposal to force GPS (at your expense, of course) into every vehicle so they can track your movement...er...miles traveled and tax you regardless of fuel economy.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Ha, that's awesome! Someone was smiling on you. I've never won more than $50 on a machine. Send some of that luck my way! I hope the CLS treats you just as well.
Thanks, fintail. The CLS is truly awesome. Before I made my decision to buy it, I went to the BMW dealer and drove the 650i Gran Coupe and the Audi A7. I found the BMW very plain looking on the outside. Very powerful and handled well, but MSRP was $90,000+. The A7 was strong, handled more like the BMW, and MSRP was $89,000, as tested.
The CLS had 402 hp and 437 lb ft of torque. It was also the best looking of the 3 I drove. Mine MSRP'd for $82210, and I paid $71240, the least expensive, but the best handling.
They have a BMW 640 Gran Coupe, but it was not as fast nor as good looking. I think I made the right decision considering the unbelievable price I paid. Deals like these come around very seldom - so I did it. Not sorry in the least, so far.
A lurker here ... I used to be much worse and have calmed down. I usually try to have once nice DD that I keep around awhile, and a used cheapo that I swap in and out.
The funny thing is that I really enjoy my old Foester so much I _still_ have not replaced it. Mind you it now has 215k on it (all mine)! This is more than quadruple the miles I have put on any other car during my tenure.
Anyway I know this _has_ to end soon, and have been all over the map (kind of like Sandman!). I test drove a 2011 Lexus GS 350 CPO ... was a little underwhelmed. Quick, but the steering was pretty isolated, and the car was just not as comfortable as I would have expected. I found the seats hard, and the ride kind of busy.
I then got the idea that getting some sort of plug-in hybrid might be a good idea, as here in CA we get stickers that allow us solo travel in ghe HOV lanes. Tried a plug-in Prius ... Nope! Way too isolated and strange feeling. Also at $40k with the tech package ... awfully expensive. Tried a loaded Volt. Drives much nicer than the Prius, but the rake of the windshield really bothered me. Also seemed overpriced at close to 40, but rebates are strong, and the zero down lease would clock in at about $440/month for three years/15k. A contender maybe.
Next up will be a Fusion energi, and I want to try a Infiniti M37 (current body style). Long post, but I think you can put me down for one next year.
The 70 DeVille was a nice, fun car in its own way. I always liked luxury cars because they were the equivalent of high tech at the time. Auto climate control, electric seats, windows, lock, auto lamps, cruise, self leveling rear, am-fm stereo, etc. Drop the top, dial in the a/c, tunes on the stereo, all was good. Press that large chrome gas pedal and the big girl would lift its fender skirts and run. Next stop, Exxon. Congrats on the new Tucson!
2021 VW Arteon SEL 4-motion, 2018 VW Passat SE w/tech, 2016 Audi Q5 Premium Plus w/tech
If you want good handling and yet a comfy ride, the SI is just the ticket! I know I'm only three weeks in this thing, but I am gaga over it - it really is a fantastic driver's car while still having most of the good things about a Civic. I can drive it to work, take my nieces to dance class, and still have a car that is a blast to shoot down the canyons on weekends, all without having to own two different cars.
The only thing is you have to put up with a bit of tire roar, even on good pavement, and some wind noise.
2014 Mini Cooper (stick shift of course), 2016 Camry hybrid, 2009 Outback Sport 5-spd (keeping the stick alive)
Mike, that is fantastic. Congratulations! Good things happen to good guys.
Thanks, Houdini. It sure came in handy this month. I had really over-extended myself with the purchase of the CLS, but The Lord sure does work in mysterious ways!!!
Unfortunately, no, or at least not yet, just thinking that the XC60/XC70/XC90 seem awfully big, solid, and safe
I'm driving a baby blue metallic (I hate that color) AWD 4-cylinder GMC Terrain rental vehicle. It's quiet, but it's also very underpowered and visibility in every direction is awful. I have no idea why anyone would buy this vehicle over a CR-V. I also remember when a GMC Jimmy was this size or smaller. I was offered the Terrain or a 2014 Impala Classic (old body style). Probably should have taken the Impala, as I've driven them before and didn't completely hate it, plus the Impala had a sunroof, leather seats, and GM's 3.6 liter V6.
Interesting comments, in a discouraging sorta way. Some of what you mentioned there just isn't any excuse for. It really does suggest that Toyota is going downhill. I'm shocked. Some of those things could have been wty, but still, does beg the question..why? in the first place...it's a Toyota, not a Yugo..
I usually like manual HVAC controls, but they have to have decent design and the best time to test if that is if you are in a cold climate. If they move with a certain mechanical fluidness and strength in the cold, they will likely last without popping hinge points and breaking lever arms. With some...if you try to rush them, that too can put undo strain on poor designs. I've sat in 3 dif cars lately that had them, and some felt good and others didn't. I forget the one that felt good...I think it was a car that I had ruled out for other reasons.
The new Corolla has them, or at least has the rotary knobs that 'may?' go to vacuum behind the scenes? it was hard to tell, but the feel of the outer knob plastic disc that rides (friction-on-friction) on hard plastic behind its bezel was just awful. So un-Toyota-like to my mind. It had this unnatural feel of stiction that would just get worse and worse as the plastic dust starts to jam the fit. I just couldn't believe that someone at Toyota signed off on that crap. ! One of the other cars I think was a Rio or might have been an Accent. And I forget the third..but the 3rd one felt like it had poor leverage behind the scenes, but knob feel was just 'ok'. Who knows why this aspect of new car design has seemingly gone down hill. Is it as simple as just strectching the profit out too damn much and the almighty dollar is behind it? or is it maybe also due to more and more proactive recycling measures being taken on so many interior component plastics? Trying to find that fine-line between lasting wty before disintegrating right in your hand some day.
That driveability issue would have driven me crazy too. So much so that I doubt I would have bought it after the test demo. I still have issues with the revs-hanging between gear changes since 87 (my 87 Pathfinder with throttle body FI, did that) and of course all my sticks since still do it altho some more than others to varying degrees. The present CRV isn't too bad, but instant between-cog-rev-drops the way a diesel does, it ain't.. That is one aspect that I won't miss on my next vehicle as I am finally going to get an auto, which camouflages that emission device quirk (and brake wearer in autos). Old knees and other health ailments sorta dictate the logical end for my stick driving days. Hell...takes me a few precarious steps in the morning to just get the left leg to work right when trying to go down the stairs to hit the can in the morning.
Given your comments, I'd say you did the right thing in eating the premature losses that were incurred. Lesson learned. Better that than endure the dang thing another 2 or 3 years (not sure length of your lease?) Besides, in that time it would just get looser and looser, and become a harder re$ell or trade at that time anyway..
Guess you were left off the distribution list where we asked everyone to contribute to the pot that is split 80% to the person with the closest guess and 20% to the second closest guess.
Just heard from the lawyer that the judge approved m and him, basically me, to take over the estate. Yay, it's been almost 8 years of nonsense and deaths to get to this point. Timing is funny in life the way things happen when one leasts expects them to. Love the Tuscon but if I had waited a bit, could've up the ante a bit more and up'd the budget to possibly $25k plus my old Civic but not really sure I'd have even done that. Probably had just gone for the Limited model in the Tuscon and gotten a sunroof. Might've looked at the RDX but the use of premium would've made this a no on my short list. Right now the amp is going in and hopefully the stock speakers won't sound too wimpy and I can deal for awhile...new speakers can always be put in at a later date when my accounts are back up to respectable levels...not looking to spend a few hundred dollars right now on them. So, this is great news. To make life perfect would be if Hertz would call and tell me to go sign the necessary paperwork for employment. Then, I would be over the moon here...but this could still become reality!
The Sandman :sick: :shades:
2023 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD (wife) / 2025 VW GTI (me) / 2019 Chevrolet Cruze Premier RS (daughter #1) / 2020 Hyundai Accent SE (daughter #2) / 2023 Subaru Impreza Base (son)
Might've looked at the RDX but the use of premium would've made this a no on my short list.
Why the hate for premium, Sandy? It's only a few $$$'s a tank. The wife's CX-7 takes premium and I've got no problem spending the extra $.32 per gallon to make the car run at its absolute best.
Just don't see the need for it, plain and simple. I will only purchase vehicles that run on 87 petrol period! And the fact of the matter is I can find enough vehicles that fit this criteria so it's really a moot point really! I know y'all love the Mazda and we love ours to and surprised i never got over to look at the CX-5 but I was going there next if the Hyundai didn't pan out since that store is next up after Subaru. My plan was to hit all the stores that afternoon and then sit down and decided once I had driven the Tiguan. Got a feeling that if I had driven the VW, I might've ended up with it and just because my estranged twin drives one had no influence on my decision here. If I had liked it enough, I would've jumped on one. It is on the higher side price wise of all the small utes but I guess it con be configured around what I ended up paying for the Tuscon but not sure I could've got the power seat at that price. Don't really matter now does it but I did have plans to drive them all first before buying. But honestly, the Tuscon SE had it all, everything on my check list and a price I was willing to pay at that moment. I am happy with my choice right now and will be for years to come but if my wife is right and I do decide to trade out in a few more years, that'll be my choice and if it's economically feaseable, why not. But as of right now, I plan to keep my Tuscon for many years to come, G-d willing!
The Sandman
2023 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD (wife) / 2025 VW GTI (me) / 2019 Chevrolet Cruze Premier RS (daughter #1) / 2020 Hyundai Accent SE (daughter #2) / 2023 Subaru Impreza Base (son)
Why the hate for premium, Sandy? It's only a few $$$'s a tank.
When I drive the new CLS into a gas station, it refuses to open it's fuel tank filler door unles I select premium grade fuel. The first time I filled it up, I selected mid grade fuel - the CLS started cursing at me and snubbed its nose at the same time. I think this new car is going to control me when it comes to fuel replacement. The other day, when we passed the Costco on the way home, it farted as we passed the pumps. Think she is trying to tell me something?
Maybe she is letting her German temperament show - "...i vill not let you caput my engine vit dat crappola petrol - mein tank vill accept nein but da best!"
I've only ran Chevron fuel in my cars for many years. A couple of old indy MB mechanics told me it is the best for these cars - maybe the fuel systems like Techron. Anyway, it's a very minor expense, so why not.
I like the Gran Coupe, but they are just too expensive - I've seen them at the local dealer with MSRP well over 100K. Insane. It's funny, the S appears to be a bit pricier than a 7er or A8, but the middle MB cars usually undercut the competition, even if only by a small margin. I am assuming you had no issues with your E, you just wanted more excitement.
Run BP or Shell the majority of the time as Chevron is a bit on the pricier side but since I got their credit card, it's a few cents cheaper. I own stock in BP so like to support my company. Waiting to be approved for the Chase Business Ink card like my wife already has. We have decided to each have our own business account for our expenses and want to keep things separate for tax reasons and have decided to pay all vehicle related charges from here also. They didn't approve me immediately but that's my fault as I just included my work income and didn't add my pension...I did go back and add it later so we will have to see. I think they will approve me as I want my own...as we discussed the other night, there's no longer a need for the wife to comment on what I purchase anymore and I should have put a stop to it years ago. But now I have and personally might just move all purchases to my personal card just because. Can then link up my pension checking account and pay it off by phone. Slowly, with baby steps, I am taking away the wife's total control of all the finances especially my pension check. There comes a point when one needs to start acting like the adult and not let someone else decide when that point shall be. She won't like this change but hey, she will adjust to it in time!
The Sandman
2023 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD (wife) / 2025 VW GTI (me) / 2019 Chevrolet Cruze Premier RS (daughter #1) / 2020 Hyundai Accent SE (daughter #2) / 2023 Subaru Impreza Base (son)
Comments
There's a big constituency for those dollars (including bike riders, ferryboats, and even some intercity passenger and freight rail and airport access). Things have changed since 1956.
I agree with you, imidazol, 100%. It seems that every time a tax is imposed or increased, it often is inappropriately spent. I have no argument with raising the fuel taxes, so long as all those funds are spent the way they were originally intended - road construction, road repair, bridge construction and repair (no more bridges built that go nowhere!).
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
Yes they have. Costs to fix and to build roads have increased drastically while the fuel taxes have not gone up proportionately. We need all the money for roads and repairs instead of walkways and trolleys. Indeed, a part can go to build a new I75 bridge in Cincinnati/N.Kentucky instead of making it toll.
However, if the other constituencies want money for their pet projects then they should pass taxes earmarked for those aforementioned projects instead of diverting funds for road maintenance and building. Indeed Cincinnati had started to build a short trolley rail system for a few hundred million if the third leg were to be completed to run from downtown stadiums to the top of the hill hospital complex zone--not a highly useful route to help alleviate traffic on I75 and I71 commuting into the city. Trolley's being paused/scrapped since building it with the 40$ million for the Feds (highway money?) is silly when the city is Detroit in its owing of huge amounts to the Municipal Pension Funds. Best to just run buses built to look like trolleys to make the speculators bought the rundown buildings cheap when talk of a trolley started and who are the primary constituency group supporting the trolley rail line.
Additional problem is finding a way to tax those drivers with electric vehicles or high mileage hybrids so they pay their fair share for use of our roads.
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
Sorry to hear about your illness as I know it stinks to be sick...my back has been acting up lately so maybe it's a good thing I'm not working every day. I'd be happy with every other day right now. Hopefully Hertz will let me know this week if they want me in Pembroke Pines since the job is supposed to start on the 29th of this month...man, I really want it! But will not call anymore as it's a bit over the top now to keep calling them, a bit creepy actually. I can do it, they know this...so hire me please and I'll be the best employee!
Not sure what to do about USA right now...I make myself available daily for the other place but hardly get called and it ain't fair that I have to work at one exclusively so will keep at both until they push me to the wall and then I will decide. Right now, I need the $ and need to work more...end of story!
The Sandman
2023 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD (wife) / 2025 VW GTI (me) / 2019 Chevrolet Cruze Premier RS (daughter #1) / 2020 Hyundai Accent SE (daughter #2) / 2023 Subaru Impreza Base (son)
After seeing the 2015, I'm actually glad I didn't hold out. I prefer the looks of my 2013. The new one takes too many hints from the Japanese/Koreans, IMHO. Tiburon sides and GTR hood anyone?
'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
Was out doing errands earlier and parked next to a new Escape and it is a few inches longer and wider than my Tuscon so it could've been a potential problem. Last night with both vehicles in the garage, we both saw that size wise, it's almost exactly the same as before, just a couple inches in width and length. I had to move my big black "X" on the garage wall up a couple of inches but no big deal and I can still get to the side outside door either in front or behind the Tuscon. I had told her this was going to be the case and she finally saw that yes, I was correct here. She immediately shut her mouth...but she still insists that I will be trading this new rig in in a few years on something else. Who knows here, maybe yes or maybe no. Might decide that yes, I want a sunroof or a convertible a few years down the road and if so, so what? As long as I can afford to do it, it's really my choice. I might find a job with more steady hours and decide eventually to gift myself again, have no clue as to what the future holds. Still want a job with definite hours and days so I can plan life a little more. And yes, I still would like a sunroof or a drop top eventually and thinking maybe I should've gone for the Limited Tuscon and gotten it all. But enough with the second guessing here, plan to enjoy the here and now and tomorrow will take care of itself well, tomorrow!
I am done for awhile with the car game!!! Yay!
The Sandman
2023 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD (wife) / 2025 VW GTI (me) / 2019 Chevrolet Cruze Premier RS (daughter #1) / 2020 Hyundai Accent SE (daughter #2) / 2023 Subaru Impreza Base (son)
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
The Yaris was poorly assembled - body panels and particularly the bumper clips didn't line up well and one of them was semi-broken, so that it would pop off and not sit flush. The outside fuel door was already giving me problems in that it wouldn't always release.
The inside was not well designed - there was only one light and you couldn't see into the back seat at all with it on. The HVAC dials were still the old rotary kind that move physical levers, and they would bind up so that you couldn't turn them smoothly.
By far the deal-killer was the e-throttle - it was mapped to rev so slowly that there was literally a second or more between hitting the pedal and the engine starting to rev. It would also rev so slowly that you had to wait longer before engaging a gear if you didn't want a lurch or a stall. It not only stole all the power, but it made my driving look like that of a rank novice with a stick when I have actually been driving stick for 25 years.
Those are just some of many issues I had with it. It rattled, it had a stiff ride that I thought would be OK when I got it, as an acceptable payoff for a well-handling car, but just became teeth-rattling and fatiguing after a while. The mileage was worse than the Echo's despite them being designed and built ten years apart, and using an engine of the same displacement. I started to think, why put up with this car when so many cars can produce mileage this good nowadays?
Then I took a look and realized just how much they would want from me to purchase it at lease end and even though that would have been the better decision financially, I just couldn't stomach the thought. Maybe this is my mid-life crisis! :-P
2014 Mini Cooper (stick shift of course), 2016 Camry hybrid, 2009 Outback Sport 5-spd (keeping the stick alive)
The Sandman
2023 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD (wife) / 2025 VW GTI (me) / 2019 Chevrolet Cruze Premier RS (daughter #1) / 2020 Hyundai Accent SE (daughter #2) / 2023 Subaru Impreza Base (son)
We went to the Boca Town Center Mall for our daily walk and got home about 10:00 A.M. I was bored, so I told Dad I was going over to the Casino about 2 miles away and play the 2 cent machines for awhile, or until I couldn't stand the cigarette smoke any longer.
I sat down at an interesting 2 cent machine, played 180 credits (about $3.60 a pop) since it had a progressive jackpot of $12,787.00 showing on the top part of the machine.
I played it for about 20 minutes, and...I HIT THE JACKPOT for the $12,787.00. I received the check, deposited $10,000 into Dad's account, and put the rest into my account. I had already won $800.00 on that machine, so I deposited that into my other checking account. So, I had a pretty good day - $13,587.00 - for the 20 or 30 minutes I played that machine. Best of all, I had accumulated $450.00 in "free play" credits, so I was using the casino's free play credits when I won the jackpot. Didn't have to spend a dime.
Good God, I am still shaking!!! But in April, when the tax man gets his share, I will owe about $3000 in income taxes over and above what I normally pay. So I netted just over $10,000 today. Better than working, that's for sure.
I now own my new car outright, and I owe no one any money. No more "tiger" around my neck.
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
2024 Audi Q8 e-tron - 2017 911 C4S - 2025 BRZ - 2023 A6 Allroad - 2024 Genesis GV60 - 2019 Cayman
Unbelievable! I was thinking to myself while playing the machine how nice it would be to win the progressive jackpot and pay off my debts. In order to be eligible for the progressive jackpot, you must place the maximum bet each spin. So that's what I was doing - so long as I was playing with the casino's money.
It was as if God was playing that machine with me.
Once it paid off, the progressive dropped to $2000. The casino attendant said that she expected it to pay off soon since it hadn't paid off the jackpot in 4 months. RIGHT PLACE, RIGHT TIME, RIGHT BET!
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
Up until about five years ago (into my mid-30's), I was pretty hard core about manual transmissions, sport packages, etc. Always had to have a manual, was willing to take a harsher ride for sportier handling, etc.
Then I got to a point where I was able to have a daily driver and a fun car, and I started appreciating the comfortable automatic SUV I had for most driving (a CX-9), and having the fun sporty car for occasional driving (a Miata at the time).
Over the past several weeks, largely due to weather conditions, my 335xi (I don't bother to put snows on it) has been sitting in my work garage, and I've been primarily driving the stepdaughter's A3 or our Odyssey - and liking it.
Dare I say I'm starting to prefer an automatic transmission??!??
Well, I don't know. At the end of the day, if I had to pick one car, I'd still probably go for a manual - something like an Accord Sport or a Mazda6. So, comfy but engaging to drive.
But what I am realizing is that I would prefer my "main" car to be an automatic and have a "fun" car with a stick. Right now, I'm a bit reversed with my "main" 335xi being a stick and the 330ci vert being an auto.
That's not to say I'm gonna make any change quickly - I'm not like that. :P
2024 Audi Q8 e-tron - 2017 911 C4S - 2025 BRZ - 2023 A6 Allroad - 2024 Genesis GV60 - 2019 Cayman
Yes, Breld, very cool!
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
For the comfy daily driver, I'd like something roomy, with good utility, and good to great fuel efficiency:
Honda Accord (Hybrid or Sport), Mazda6, Accord Crosstour, TSX Wagon, maybe a used A4, or my favorite, a 328 GT (of course the most expensive).
For the fun car? Something fun with a stick, but still want backseats and maybe even 4 doors:
GTI, GLI, Civic Si, older 3 series
With nippon's recent posts, I'm intrigued by the Civic Si right now. That was basically my first car back in 1990 - not nearly as potent as the current version, but still good memories.
For my daily, that 328 GT really fits the bill so well, but I would want to wait for used ones to be available in the mid-$30's. That's probably a couple of years away.
We'll see - the mind is always spinning with ideas on the next members of the fleet.
2024 Audi Q8 e-tron - 2017 911 C4S - 2025 BRZ - 2023 A6 Allroad - 2024 Genesis GV60 - 2019 Cayman
They don't have a hotel there yet. They comped my account for 2 dinners for 2 people at either NYY Steak right there in the casino and their Italian restaurant. I have $350 in comps for those two meals. I am going to take Dad for dinner tomorrow night to the Italian restaurant and Saturday night at the NYY Strak House.
So they did give me some comps.
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
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
The Sandman
2023 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD (wife) / 2025 VW GTI (me) / 2019 Chevrolet Cruze Premier RS (daughter #1) / 2020 Hyundai Accent SE (daughter #2) / 2023 Subaru Impreza Base (son)
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'm dreaming of Volvos Three guesses why, and the first two don't count!
Yes, Sandy. We used to go to Coral Square, but the Boca Town Center is a longer walk and the stores are more upscale. They have Neiman's, Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom's, Macy's, Sears and Bloomingdales. Also, I frequent the new Apple Store as well. They have a Tesla store opening soon and they have a great food court including Chick-Fil-A, Dad's favorite place to have lunch each week. Parking is also better with covered parking at Neiman's/Bloomingdales, Nordstrom's, Macy's, and Saks.
We walk at a fairly brisk rate - once around takes 20-25 minutes. The mall is well maintained and the stores are beautiful. They have that new Container Store and 2 brand new Foot Lockers, one of which is their new upscale store.
As for the casino, they have great restaurants - NYY Steak is as good as Ruth's Chris. Sorisi's Italian Restaurant is out of this world. They also have a New York Style Deli. No smoking in the restaurants, thank goodness, but the casino itself is very smoky.
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
Oh our politicians are way ahead of you. I'm sure you've heard the proposal to force GPS (at your expense, of course) into every vehicle so they can track your movement...er...miles traveled and tax you regardless of fuel economy.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Holy crap! Congratulations!
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Thanks, fintail. The CLS is truly awesome. Before I made my decision to buy it, I went to the BMW dealer and drove the 650i Gran Coupe and the Audi A7. I found the BMW very plain looking on the outside. Very powerful and handled well, but MSRP was $90,000+. The A7 was strong, handled more like the BMW, and MSRP was $89,000, as tested.
The CLS had 402 hp and 437 lb ft of torque. It was also the best looking of the 3 I drove. Mine MSRP'd for $82210, and I paid $71240, the least expensive, but the best handling.
They have a BMW 640 Gran Coupe, but it was not as fast nor as good looking. I think I made the right decision considering the unbelievable price I paid. Deals like these come around very seldom - so I did it. Not sorry in the least, so far.
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
My words precisely, farmer, but I think I used the "s" word for crap, if my memory serves me! I did scream, that's for sure!
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
The funny thing is that I really enjoy my old Foester so much I _still_ have not replaced it. Mind you it now has 215k on it (all mine)! This is more than quadruple the miles I have put on any other car during my tenure.
Anyway I know this _has_ to end soon, and have been all over the map (kind of like Sandman!). I test drove a 2011 Lexus GS 350 CPO ... was a little underwhelmed. Quick, but the steering was pretty isolated, and the car was just not as comfortable as I would have expected. I found the seats hard, and the ride kind of busy.
I then got the idea that getting some sort of plug-in hybrid might be a good idea, as here in CA we get stickers that allow us solo travel in ghe HOV lanes. Tried a plug-in Prius ... Nope! Way too isolated and strange feeling. Also at $40k with the tech package ... awfully expensive. Tried a loaded Volt. Drives much nicer than the Prius, but the rake of the windshield really bothered me. Also seemed overpriced at close to 40, but rebates are strong, and the zero down lease would clock in at about $440/month for three years/15k. A contender maybe.
Next up will be a Fusion energi, and I want to try a Infiniti M37 (current body style). Long post, but I think you can put me down for one next year.
2021 VW Arteon SEL 4-motion, 2018 VW Passat SE w/tech, 2016 Audi Q5 Premium Plus w/tech
2021 VW Arteon SEL 4-motion, 2018 VW Passat SE w/tech, 2016 Audi Q5 Premium Plus w/tech
The only thing is you have to put up with a bit of tire roar, even on good pavement, and some wind noise.
2014 Mini Cooper (stick shift of course), 2016 Camry hybrid, 2009 Outback Sport 5-spd (keeping the stick alive)
Sounds like someone's car got totaled!!
Congrats! ;-)
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2013 LX 570 2016 LS 460
Thanks, Houdini. It sure came in handy this month. I had really over-extended myself with the purchase of the CLS, but The Lord sure does work in mysterious ways!!!
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
Unfortunately, no, or at least not yet, just thinking that the XC60/XC70/XC90 seem awfully big, solid, and safe
I'm driving a baby blue metallic (I hate that color) AWD 4-cylinder GMC Terrain rental vehicle. It's quiet, but it's also very underpowered and visibility in every direction is awful. I have no idea why anyone would buy this vehicle over a CR-V. I also remember when a GMC Jimmy was this size or smaller. I was offered the Terrain or a 2014 Impala Classic (old body style). Probably should have taken the Impala, as I've driven them before and didn't completely hate it, plus the Impala had a sunroof, leather seats, and GM's 3.6 liter V6.
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
I usually like manual HVAC controls, but they have to have decent design and the best time to test if that is if you are in a cold climate. If they move with a certain mechanical fluidness and strength in the cold, they will likely last without popping hinge points and breaking lever arms. With some...if you try to rush them, that too can put undo strain on poor designs. I've sat in 3 dif cars lately that had them, and some felt good and others didn't. I forget the one that felt good...I think it was a car that I had ruled out for other reasons.
The new Corolla has them, or at least has the rotary knobs that 'may?' go to vacuum behind the scenes? it was hard to tell, but the feel of the outer knob plastic disc that rides (friction-on-friction) on hard plastic behind its bezel was just awful. So un-Toyota-like to my mind. It had this unnatural feel of stiction that would just get worse and worse as the plastic dust starts to jam the fit. I just couldn't believe that someone at Toyota signed off on that crap. ! One of the other cars I think was a Rio or might have been an Accent. And I forget the third..but the 3rd one felt like it had poor leverage behind the scenes, but knob feel was just 'ok'. Who knows why this aspect of new car design has seemingly gone down hill. Is it as simple as just strectching the profit out too damn much and the almighty dollar is behind it? or is it maybe also due to more and more proactive recycling measures being taken on so many interior component plastics? Trying to find that fine-line between lasting wty before disintegrating right in your hand some day.
That driveability issue would have driven me crazy too. So much so that I doubt I would have bought it after the test demo. I still have issues with the revs-hanging between gear changes since 87 (my 87 Pathfinder with throttle body FI, did that) and of course all my sticks since still do it altho some more than others to varying degrees. The present CRV isn't too bad, but instant between-cog-rev-drops the way a diesel does, it ain't.. That is one aspect that I won't miss on my next vehicle as I am finally going to get an auto, which camouflages that emission device quirk (and brake wearer in autos). Old knees and other health ailments sorta dictate the logical end for my stick driving days. Hell...takes me a few precarious steps in the morning to just get the left leg to work right when trying to go down the stairs to hit the can in the morning.
Given your comments, I'd say you did the right thing in eating the premature losses that were incurred. Lesson learned. Better that than endure the dang thing another 2 or 3 years (not sure length of your lease?) Besides, in that time it would just get looser and looser, and become a harder re$ell or trade at that time anyway..
The SI must feel like a breath of fresh air.
...wait... we aren't, are we?
'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
...wait... we aren't, are we?
Guess you were left off the distribution list where we asked everyone to contribute to the pot that is split 80% to the person with the closest guess and 20% to the second closest guess.
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2015 Subaru Outback 3.6R / 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX Prestige
So, this is great news. To make life perfect would be if Hertz would call and tell me to go sign the necessary paperwork for employment. Then, I would be over the moon here...but this could still become reality!
The Sandman
2023 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD (wife) / 2025 VW GTI (me) / 2019 Chevrolet Cruze Premier RS (daughter #1) / 2020 Hyundai Accent SE (daughter #2) / 2023 Subaru Impreza Base (son)
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
Why the hate for premium, Sandy? It's only a few $$$'s a tank. The wife's CX-7 takes premium and I've got no problem spending the extra $.32 per gallon to make the car run at its absolute best.
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2015 Subaru Outback 3.6R / 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX Prestige
I am happy with my choice right now and will be for years to come but if my wife is right and I do decide to trade out in a few more years, that'll be my choice and if it's economically feaseable, why not. But as of right now, I plan to keep my Tuscon for many years to come, G-d willing!
The Sandman
2023 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD (wife) / 2025 VW GTI (me) / 2019 Chevrolet Cruze Premier RS (daughter #1) / 2020 Hyundai Accent SE (daughter #2) / 2023 Subaru Impreza Base (son)
When I drive the new CLS into a gas station, it refuses to open it's fuel tank filler door unles I select premium grade fuel. The first time I filled it up, I selected mid grade fuel - the CLS started cursing at me and snubbed its nose at the same time. I think this new car is going to control me when it comes to fuel replacement. The other day, when we passed the Costco on the way home, it farted as we passed the pumps. Think she is trying to tell me something?
Maybe she is letting her German temperament show - "...i vill not let you caput my engine vit dat crappola petrol - mein tank vill accept nein but da best!"
Ya Vol, German Muscle Car, Ya Vol!!!
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
She won't like this change but hey, she will adjust to it in time!
The Sandman
2023 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD (wife) / 2025 VW GTI (me) / 2019 Chevrolet Cruze Premier RS (daughter #1) / 2020 Hyundai Accent SE (daughter #2) / 2023 Subaru Impreza Base (son)