@graphicguy said:
LD...that's a bucket list thing for me.....head up to CT to see Carini's place and go to a Concours. They have a Concours in Cincinnati where I live. But, the ones I see on CCC are way better than the local one. In the past, I've tought about moving to CT. Just could never find the right opportunity to make that happen.
BTW....my older sister is finally looking to trade her '04 S-Type....~120,000 trouble free miles. She loves it. Looking at anouther, but also kind of in love with the Caddy CTS. I told her to give me her check book and I'll nail something down for her.
The Concours is this coming Sunday in Cincinnati.. I'm going to miss it this year, though.
Sorry, didn't have my coffee yet. I'll go into the penalty box. SHIFTY
@stever said:
js06gv, my guess is that Shifty answered your question and wound up editing your post thinking he was quoting you in a new post. I've caught myself doing that a few times (mods can edit any post). So don't worry, you aren't talking to yourself.
For anyone interested with late model VWs (like stick's son or perhaps nyc in a few months), I successfully retrofitted a navigation head unit in my Passat yesterday.
I purchased a used navigation unit from the classifieds of a vw forum - the smaller screen one (RNS-315). I considered the larger one, but it was, of course, a bit more expensive, and more importantly, the feedback was that it had quite a delay in response time.
It was incredibly simple, and I'm not necessarily the most skilled in that area. I was able to complete it within an hour last night. Trim piece around the head unit comes right off by hand (carefully of course), head unit slides out with the removal of four screws, all the plugs in the back fit right into the new unit (plus a GPS antenna), new unit slides right back in with the same screws, trim piece snaps back on. And that's it - all done.
I was told there would be some VAG-COM programming to be done for the Bluetooth and navigation to function properly. Bluetooth seems to work just fine without any programming, but it does seem the navigation needs to be "activated." Found a local person who has the equipment who is happy to "plug" my car in and make the adjustments.
So, instead of the basic stereo, I now have a touchscreen that actually shows phone information (phonebook, caller ID, etc.) and navigation. It's refreshing that a modern car has "plug 'n play" options with other OEM head units. Pretty happy about it!
My son's Jetta has the connectivity package, and that comes with the fancier touch screen headunit that does all the good stuff with the phone, ipod, etc. Just doesn't have the nav, but he does not care all that much. The Garmin is fine for the rare occasion he needs it. I feel that same way, justifying not spending a huge amount of money on factory nav (tech) packages!
@breld...What did you think of the 528i with the 4cyl? I would be concerned that its a lotta vehicle for the motor to pull around smoothly especially when it would inevitably compared in your mind to the I6 from previous BMW's.
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 cast off I could see myself buying is @graphicguy 's TL SH-AWD Advance. I don't think he'll keep it long enough for when I'll be in the market next (the punch after the coming September's punch)
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
@nyccarguy said:
The cast off I could see myself buying is graphicguy 's TL SH-AWD Advance. I don't think he'll keep it long enough for when I'll be in the market next (the punch after the coming September's punch)
Won't the punch after next be a replacement for the Pilot?
As of about a few weeks ago, the Pilot is 2 years away from being paid off. It seems like it is built for the long haul. I have no doubt in my mind that it will last 175,000 - 200,000 miles. The next punch which as it stands now will be some sort of sedan we will lease for my wife. 2 years into that 3 year lease, I'll be down to 1 car payment. Eventually I plan to put the Pilot aside for a family vacation/we need the room for 5 vehicle. So I think the fleet will eventually increase to 4.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
@au1994 said:
breld...What did you think of the 528i with the 4cyl? I would be concerned that its a lotta vehicle for the motor to pull around smoothly especially when it would inevitably compared in your mind to the I6 from previous BMW's.
Personally, I think the 4cyl is a great engine - I'm actually shying away from the 535i, although there are plenty more of those around. It feels very responsive - I think tested acceleration times are in the 6's. And the lighter weight has its advantages. But there's no getting around the better sound the I-6 offers (naturally aspirated or otherwise).
The 335i I had was more of an anomaly than anything - wife's had a couple 328's and the X3 2.8i, I had the 530i and a 530xi. So I never specifically targeted the higher power options. Then again, those were all still I-6's.
On that note, the salesperson at that Land Rover dealer just called me and they're offering another $500 off from the most recent offer. Still not so motivating to get me there right now, but we're moving in the right direction. More than anything, I'm still thinking about the 328i GT and the Lexus ES350/300h.
@stickguy said:
My son's Jetta has the connectivity package, and that comes with the fancier touch screen headunit that does all the good stuff with the phone, ipod, etc. Just doesn't have the nav, but he does not care all that much. The Garmin is fine for the rare occasion he needs it. I feel that same way, justifying not spending a huge amount of money on factory nav (tech) packages!
If I had just gone for the SE model with that same touchscreen headunit, I probably wouldn't have bothered with the switch either, but I had the basic unit with just a couple lines of black and white text. Even though it had the Bluetooth functionality, I still had to make calls using my phone, and when a call came in, I had no idea who was calling (again, without looking at the phone). Plus, there was a lot of fiddling with controls to manipulate the iPod music.
So, in all honesty, the new touchscreen is not only easier to use, but probably a little safer too.
@graphicguy said:
LD...that's a bucket list thing for me.....head up to CT to see Carini's place and go to a Concours. They have a Concours in Cincinnati where I live. But, the ones I see on CCC are way better than the local one. In the past, I've tought about moving to CT. Just could never find the right opportunity to make that happen.
BTW....my older sister is finally looking to trade her '04 S-Type....~120,000 trouble free miles. She loves it. Looking at anouther, but also kind of in love with the Caddy CTS. I told her to give me her check book and I'll nail something down for her.
Great to hear her S-Type was trouble free. I don't know what the fates have in store for me, but I can't imagine keeping the XF for 10 years/120k miles. Too much temptation out there. And, I am weak. Unlike breld...:D . With the fab weather we've had the last few days, and maybe being at the Concours on Greenwich Harbor, I"m getting the itch for a 'vert, hence the 1995 MB 300 query to Fintail.
Saw my first F-Type coupe on the road. Much more dramatic looking live than in pix. Also, saw a BMW X3 on the side of I95 with what looked like a very shredded, done tire. With no spare, I guess they were waiting for BMW Assist. And the folks looked non too pleased... RFT have kept me away from BMW.
CT is a nice state, lots of shoreline (LI Sound). Fairfield Cty, great suburb of NYC. Beautiful Litchfield Cty (also hideaway for the rich and famous). New England in general, a wonderful part of the country. Gas more expensive than my current state of MA, though. And housing prices, at least in Fairfield County, well...
'21 Dark Blue/Black Audi A7 PHEV (mine); '22 White/Beige BMW X3 (hers); '20 Estoril Blue/Oyster BMW M240xi 'Vert (Ours, read: hers in 'vert weather; mine during Nor'easters...)
@nyccarguy said:
The cast off I could see myself buying is graphicguy 's TL SH-AWD Advance. I don't think he'll keep it long enough for when I'll be in the market next (the punch after the coming September's punch)
Am I that predictable? LOL!
New wife soon to be in the picture, I'm thinking my days of turning over cars every couple model years are over......maybe!
The TL just hit 12K miles. Oil changes and tire rotation only. Nothing in the way of warranty work. It's totally tight and like the day I drove it off the lot. Averaging 22 MPG. I'm quite pleased.
Well if that's the case, then maybe I've got a shot at your TL in about 4 years. I'll even throw in a pair of Yankees tickets if you deliver it here. Or we could arrange delivery on the "Concours weekend." Make a nice weekend with the Mrs. out of it.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
Well if that's the case, then maybe I've got a shot at your TL in about 4 years. I'll even throw in a pair of Yankees tickets if you deliver it here. Or we could arrange delivery on the "Concours weekend." Make a nice weekend with the Mrs. out of it.
What a great weekend that would be for you guys! A car sale, a wonderful Concours and a crushing defeat of the Yankees by the Red Sox! Or Mets. Or any other MLB team. Or minor league, college, Little League...
'21 Dark Blue/Black Audi A7 PHEV (mine); '22 White/Beige BMW X3 (hers); '20 Estoril Blue/Oyster BMW M240xi 'Vert (Ours, read: hers in 'vert weather; mine during Nor'easters...)
Just hit 133k on the Mazda3 and all is well except for the fender bender which will not be repaired at this time. The a/c is still working barely on #3 but always on #4 but the wife is unwilling to have it repaired which I think is crazy since the heat is starting here. But guess she figures she can always borrow the kid's Accent if and when hers gives out since for work purposes, she's been bunking with her during the week to save time. It's still between the Mazda3 and Accent for her new vehicle though I keep suggesting she try all that's out there...have been showing her vehicles in Motor Trend and Car & Driver to open up her mind a bit but not sure if that's doing more bad than good. Time frame is still the last week of December though I think that'll change if and when the a/c dies completely. Personally, I'd purchase like we did when we bought it over the July 4th weekend but again, since it isn't my ride, I have no real say. I know she wants to stay at $20k plus whatever they give for her heap...figuring maybe $1500 to $2000 tops.
I have driven the new Accents at work and though nice enough, not even close to her Mazda3. Am definitely sure the new 3 will be a big improvement also as I think she'd be looking at the "I" instead of the "S" this time around. I know she's always liked the 3 Series but would never spend that kind of cash. So we'll just have to wait and see here.
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)
@breld said:
If I had just gone for the SE model with that same touchscreen headunit...
I assume your Passat has audio controls on the steering wheel (the base Jetta does not, but the connectivity package version does, as does my GLI)? Not having the controls on the wheel is one thing that really annoyed me about my 2009 Altima. A handful of "nice" features like that can make a car a lot easier to live with.
Yup - I have controls on one side if the wheel for volume and track forward/backward. The upper models have controls on both sides to add control of the info system too.
I understand that you are in a higher income bracket than I am, but for you to get a house in Fairfield County equivalent to your current pad would have to have many zeros attached to it.
I'm not from CT, but have grown to really love it here over the past 4 years. It is beautiful. We live about 5 1/2 mies from the beach. There are 3 sound beaches here in Stamford alone. Thanks for coming down & boosting the local economy;)
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
there are a few things that over the years I have come to consider must haves. Moonroof, with rare exceptions. But power drivers seat (since no one makes a fully adjustable manual seat any more, and I refuse to have a rachet and dump adjuster), steering wheel radio controls, and now back up camera are on the list.
@stickguy said:
But power drivers seat (since no one makes a fully adjustable manual seat any more, and I refuse to have a rachet and dump adjuster), steering wheel radio controls, and now back up camera are on the list.
Wait till you have smart key; there's no going back...
I understand that you are in a higher income bracket than I am, but for you to get a house in Fairfield County equivalent to your current pad would have to have many zeros attached to it.
laurasdada
I'm not from CT, but have grown to really love it here over the past 4 years. It is beautiful. We live about 5 1/2 mies from the beach. There are 3 sound beaches here in Stamford alone. Thanks for coming down & boosting the local economy;)
NYC...during the "go-go" early internet bubble days, I was working for a startup, actually I was also one of the original founders. As it is today, the tech world believes the sun rises and sets in Silicon Valley. That's where the company was headquartered. While I had equity in the company (probably the 5th largest share holder in the company after we went public), I still had a boss...the CEO. I was willing to travel anywhere, any time, for any reason, and I did. I was in charge of our entire OEM and Channel marketing/sales organization (we came up with a critical component that high end computer makers needed). I was constantly on the road.
At one point, the CEO wanted me to move to the HQ in Milpitas, CA. While he never could offer any reason why having me in Milpitas would be any more beneficial to having me remote. I'd still have to travel all the time, and uprooting my (then) wife and son made no sense to me.
Well, the time finally came where an ultimatum was made to me....move or be demoted. Neither prospect was appealing. But, the wife and I started looking at real estate in and around the CA Bay Area.
The company was going to sell my current home, negotiate the new home (like for like), and pay for moving expenses, including setting us up in an apartment until I could move, plus pay the bridge loan until my old house sold. Actually, it was a pretty sweet deal given the circumstances.
Until, the CEO saw the housing price differential. I live in a nice house. It's not huge (~3K sq ft) and sits on ~3/4 acre in a decent neighborhood. In the midwest, that's not a mansion by any stretch of the imagination. Not entirely sure what it's worth today, but 20 years ago, when I had it built, it was worth $250K.
Same house, on similar land, in the Bay Area was well over $1M. After some initial conversations about how I didn't have the ocean near me in Cincinnati, and how San Francisco was culturally richer than Cincinnati (not sure of the validity of that), the CEO tried to talk me into something considerably smaller, with much less land. Even at that, something 1/2 the size on half the lot size was still going to cost $600K-$750K. That conversation didn't last too long after seeing those numbers. He also dropped his demand for me to move.
I'm imagining CT is sort of like CA in that respect.
@tifighter said:
Wait till you have smart key; there's no going back...
Both the wife and daughter have that with their cars - very nice technology.
I got grief the other night as my car doesn't have HID headlights - there were deer on the side of the road when we were coming back from the movies. Wife commented that in the new MINI, the headlights are just amazing.
@henryn said:
Trust me, Qbrozen, you do NOT want the Ford Sync.
Thanks for the warning. There is a dash trim kit available for the stang to allow me to put in the headunit of my choice. I'll probably do that one of these days.
'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
@stickguy said:
Yeah, add smart key to the list. And auto headlights. I like those too.
I've probably said this here before, but I generally dislike auto headlights, as most of the current systems don't turn on when it's really cloudy or even raining--both of which are times when I would want them on. I'm in favor of other people having auto headlights, especially with the proliferation of backlit gauge clusters, which tend to make people believe their headlights are on when they aren't, causing them to drive with no headlights.
Moonroof – definitely do not like, just another potential leak, and it takes away from the headroom.
Power drivers seat (refuse to have a ratchet and dump) – a fully adjustable seat is an absolute necessity for me, else I simply cannot fit. The reason I have owned Ford and Chevy trucks instead of Dodge is that you cannot get a power seat in the Dodge without spending $40k. On the other hand, my Passat has a “ratchet and dump”, which suits me just fine. No one else drives it, it stays put in the fully down position so that I can fit in the car.
Steering wheel radio controls – I have owned several vehicles equipped with such controls, and I very rarely use them.
Back up camera – never owned a car equipped with a back up camera, but I have driven a few, and I do believe that would be addictive.
Smart key – I’ll keep an open mind, but I doubt that would ever make much of a difference to me.
HID headlights – yes, definitely. Why hasn’t the NHTSA made those mandatory, much as with seat belts and air bags?
@graphicguy said:
I'm imagining CT is sort of like CA in that respect.
My brother/father live in LA. At least in their neighborhoods, housing price seem more expensive than Fairfield County. One big difference is that for your 7 figures in CT (not all RE in CT is 7 figures, the RE guides I grabbed made it seem so, though!), you actually can get some land around your house!
Bradd, I stayed in Norwalk, dined in Norwalk and Greenwich. Sorry, none of my $$$ went directly to Stamford! What was nice was dining in two of the Italian places I frequented when I was a resident. As well as visiting Stew's. The excellent Italian restaruant in Westport where I proposed is no longer. Different restaurant. And downtown Westport (I guess like most downtowns?) has gone from Mom/Pop to Mall. Sad. Also, Bobby V's in Norwalk is gone, is there still one in Stamford?
'21 Dark Blue/Black Audi A7 PHEV (mine); '22 White/Beige BMW X3 (hers); '20 Estoril Blue/Oyster BMW M240xi 'Vert (Ours, read: hers in 'vert weather; mine during Nor'easters...)
@laurasdada said:
My brother/father live in LA. At least in their neighborhoods, housing price seem more expensive than Fairfield County.
CA real estate can be outrageously expensive.
To wit - my folks live in a town on the coast between LA and Santa Barbara. Tract home, built 1968, 1400sf on a 7200sf lot. Zillow pegs the value at just under $400K!
My home is 1600sf on a 5000sf lot here in Colorado, built in 2000. Zillow shows the value as about $225K.
@Michaell said:
My home is 1600sf on a 5000sf lot here in Colorado, built in 2000. Zillow shows the value as about $225K.
I believe my house in suburban Boston to be larger than my brother's home. But, I have 3/4 acre, he has probably 1-2/10 acre? But, his home (great view of hills, Pacific and downtown LA. When there's no smog, of course) litterally cost 10x mine to purchase.
'21 Dark Blue/Black Audi A7 PHEV (mine); '22 White/Beige BMW X3 (hers); '20 Estoril Blue/Oyster BMW M240xi 'Vert (Ours, read: hers in 'vert weather; mine during Nor'easters...)
We moved from the Bay Area about a year ago back to Seattle. LA prices seem cheaper than Seattle, but neither are close to the Bay Area. We lived in a 1br apartment in Oakland, and a unit in our building 1100 sq ft, no view, good neighborhood went for $525k. In Oakland, we aren't even talking about the city.
Strangely, the cars were cheaper. So that was nice.
Not ready to punch just yet, but I had a wavering moment on Sunday. I tried to roll down the windows on my 2000 Park Ave and the left rear one wouldn't budge. Wouldn't roll down using the rear switch, either. The car actually runs fine, but it has a variety of annoying little problems. Plus it's just starting to look a little old...dings here and there, a big rip in the seat, carpeting looking bad, two spots where the paint is fading, etc. I figured the window would be the straw that broke the camel's back. But then, out of the blue it worked again!
So, I guess I'm still holding tight. I have thought about finally retiring my '85 Silverado, but my uncle likes it because it doesn't sit as high as the Ram, so it's easier to load stuff in the back like lawn tractors, wood chippers, etc. But, it's getting so cranky that it seems like I'm the only one who can get it started. And, I prefer driving the Silverado when I go into DC over the weekends. I have to park on the street, and I figure it's only a matter of time before it gets sideswiped. I figure that the Park Ave would be too easy to total, while the Ram would get me mad because it's still fairly new. But if the Silverado got sideswiped, it would probably muff up whatever hit it, and just give the Silverado a few more "character lines"
Comments
Wow. I love that z8. Wonder what they want for that odd ball?
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
I'd like to know, too.
The Concours is this coming Sunday in Cincinnati.. I'm going to miss it this year, though.
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Sorry, didn't have my coffee yet. I'll go into the penalty box. SHIFTY
' the penalty box.'
That is what my [ now ex- ] wife used to call
one of our cars, back in the day...
Resolved never to have another one of THOSE!
Thanks...I knew it was soon. Will have to miss it this year.
Oh.
That's so intuitive, I don't know how I could have missed it.
2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6
LOLOL.
Luckily, simply typing still works.
For anyone interested with late model VWs (like stick's son or perhaps nyc in a few months), I successfully retrofitted a navigation head unit in my Passat yesterday.
I purchased a used navigation unit from the classifieds of a vw forum - the smaller screen one (RNS-315). I considered the larger one, but it was, of course, a bit more expensive, and more importantly, the feedback was that it had quite a delay in response time.
It was incredibly simple, and I'm not necessarily the most skilled in that area. I was able to complete it within an hour last night. Trim piece around the head unit comes right off by hand (carefully of course), head unit slides out with the removal of four screws, all the plugs in the back fit right into the new unit (plus a GPS antenna), new unit slides right back in with the same screws, trim piece snaps back on. And that's it - all done.
I was told there would be some VAG-COM programming to be done for the Bluetooth and navigation to function properly. Bluetooth seems to work just fine without any programming, but it does seem the navigation needs to be "activated." Found a local person who has the equipment who is happy to "plug" my car in and make the adjustments.
So, instead of the basic stereo, I now have a touchscreen that actually shows phone information (phonebook, caller ID, etc.) and navigation. It's refreshing that a modern car has "plug 'n play" options with other OEM head units. Pretty happy about it!
I still want a new car though.
2024 Audi Q8 e-tron - 2017 911 C4S - 2025 BRZ - 2023 A6 Allroad - 2024 Genesis GV60 - 2019 Cayman
Really... you just need to move closer to me... I'd be happy with most of your cast offs.
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ky, breld is about 1-2 hours from me ... I wish I could afford his castoffs.
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2015 Subaru Outback 3.6R / 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX Prestige
Well.. it's getting better... I don't want a Passat...
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335xi went to someone in South Carolina, 328xiT to someone in Boston and the 530i to California.
Cincinnati is closer than all those.
2024 Audi Q8 e-tron - 2017 911 C4S - 2025 BRZ - 2023 A6 Allroad - 2024 Genesis GV60 - 2019 Cayman
My son's Jetta has the connectivity package, and that comes with the fancier touch screen headunit that does all the good stuff with the phone, ipod, etc. Just doesn't have the nav, but he does not care all that much. The Garmin is fine for the rare occasion he needs it. I feel that same way, justifying not spending a huge amount of money on factory nav (tech) packages!
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
nice job. Makes me wonder if there is something so simple for my stang. Prob not. Don't think I want the Ford Sync anyway.
'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
@breld...What did you think of the 528i with the 4cyl? I would be concerned that its a lotta vehicle for the motor to pull around smoothly especially when it would inevitably compared in your mind to the I6 from previous BMW's.
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 cast off I could see myself buying is @graphicguy 's TL SH-AWD Advance. I don't think he'll keep it long enough for when I'll be in the market next (the punch after the coming September's punch)
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
Won't the punch after next be a replacement for the Pilot?
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2015 Subaru Outback 3.6R / 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX Prestige
Trust me, Qbrozen, you do NOT want the Ford Sync.
@Michaell
As of about a few weeks ago, the Pilot is 2 years away from being paid off. It seems like it is built for the long haul. I have no doubt in my mind that it will last 175,000 - 200,000 miles. The next punch which as it stands now will be some sort of sedan we will lease for my wife. 2 years into that 3 year lease, I'll be down to 1 car payment. Eventually I plan to put the Pilot aside for a family vacation/we need the room for 5 vehicle. So I think the fleet will eventually increase to 4.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
Personally, I think the 4cyl is a great engine - I'm actually shying away from the 535i, although there are plenty more of those around. It feels very responsive - I think tested acceleration times are in the 6's. And the lighter weight has its advantages. But there's no getting around the better sound the I-6 offers (naturally aspirated or otherwise).
The 335i I had was more of an anomaly than anything - wife's had a couple 328's and the X3 2.8i, I had the 530i and a 530xi. So I never specifically targeted the higher power options. Then again, those were all still I-6's.
On that note, the salesperson at that Land Rover dealer just called me and they're offering another $500 off from the most recent offer. Still not so motivating to get me there right now, but we're moving in the right direction. More than anything, I'm still thinking about the 328i GT and the Lexus ES350/300h.
2024 Audi Q8 e-tron - 2017 911 C4S - 2025 BRZ - 2023 A6 Allroad - 2024 Genesis GV60 - 2019 Cayman
If I had just gone for the SE model with that same touchscreen headunit, I probably wouldn't have bothered with the switch either, but I had the basic unit with just a couple lines of black and white text. Even though it had the Bluetooth functionality, I still had to make calls using my phone, and when a call came in, I had no idea who was calling (again, without looking at the phone). Plus, there was a lot of fiddling with controls to manipulate the iPod music.
So, in all honesty, the new touchscreen is not only easier to use, but probably a little safer too.
2024 Audi Q8 e-tron - 2017 911 C4S - 2025 BRZ - 2023 A6 Allroad - 2024 Genesis GV60 - 2019 Cayman
Great to hear her S-Type was trouble free. I don't know what the fates have in store for me, but I can't imagine keeping the XF for 10 years/120k miles. Too much temptation out there. And, I am weak. Unlike breld...:D . With the fab weather we've had the last few days, and maybe being at the Concours on Greenwich Harbor, I"m getting the itch for a 'vert, hence the 1995 MB 300 query to Fintail.
Saw my first F-Type coupe on the road. Much more dramatic looking live than in pix. Also, saw a BMW X3 on the side of I95 with what looked like a very shredded, done tire. With no spare, I guess they were waiting for BMW Assist. And the folks looked non too pleased... RFT have kept me away from BMW.
CT is a nice state, lots of shoreline (LI Sound). Fairfield Cty, great suburb of NYC. Beautiful Litchfield Cty (also hideaway for the rich and famous). New England in general, a wonderful part of the country. Gas more expensive than my current state of MA, though. And housing prices, at least in Fairfield County, well...
'21 Dark Blue/Black Audi A7 PHEV (mine); '22 White/Beige BMW X3 (hers); '20 Estoril Blue/Oyster BMW M240xi 'Vert (Ours, read: hers in 'vert weather; mine during Nor'easters...)
Am I that predictable? LOL!
New wife soon to be in the picture, I'm thinking my days of turning over cars every couple model years are over......maybe!
The TL just hit 12K miles. Oil changes and tire rotation only. Nothing in the way of warranty work. It's totally tight and like the day I drove it off the lot. Averaging 22 MPG. I'm quite pleased.
Yeah, lots of us hoped that the Z8s would depreciate like the 8 Series did- no such luck...
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
Well if that's the case, then maybe I've got a shot at your TL in about 4 years. I'll even throw in a pair of Yankees tickets if you deliver it here. Or we could arrange delivery on the "Concours weekend." Make a nice weekend with the Mrs. out of it.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
What a great weekend that would be for you guys! A car sale, a wonderful Concours and a crushing defeat of the Yankees by the Red Sox! Or Mets. Or any other MLB team. Or minor league, college, Little League...
'21 Dark Blue/Black Audi A7 PHEV (mine); '22 White/Beige BMW X3 (hers); '20 Estoril Blue/Oyster BMW M240xi 'Vert (Ours, read: hers in 'vert weather; mine during Nor'easters...)
They have depreciated big --- but only if you own one and want a trade in value.
Just hit 133k on the Mazda3 and all is well except for the fender bender which will not be repaired at this time. The a/c is still working barely on #3 but always on #4 but the wife is unwilling to have it repaired which I think is crazy since the heat is starting here. But guess she figures she can always borrow the kid's Accent if and when hers gives out since for work purposes, she's been bunking with her during the week to save time. It's still between the Mazda3 and Accent for her new vehicle though I keep suggesting she try all that's out there...have been showing her vehicles in Motor Trend and Car & Driver to open up her mind a bit but not sure if that's doing more bad than good. Time frame is still the last week of December though I think that'll change if and when the a/c dies completely. Personally, I'd purchase like we did when we bought it over the July 4th weekend but again, since it isn't my ride, I have no real say. I know she wants to stay at $20k plus whatever they give for her heap...figuring maybe $1500 to $2000 tops.
I have driven the new Accents at work and though nice enough, not even close to her Mazda3. Am definitely sure the new 3 will be a big improvement also as I think she'd be looking at the "I" instead of the "S" this time around. I know she's always liked the 3 Series but would never spend that kind of cash. So we'll just have to wait and see here.
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 assume your Passat has audio controls on the steering wheel (the base Jetta does not, but the connectivity package version does, as does my GLI)? Not having the controls on the wheel is one thing that really annoyed me about my 2009 Altima. A handful of "nice" features like that can make a car a lot easier to live with.
Yup - I have controls on one side if the wheel for volume and track forward/backward. The upper models have controls on both sides to add control of the info system too.
2024 Audi Q8 e-tron - 2017 911 C4S - 2025 BRZ - 2023 A6 Allroad - 2024 Genesis GV60 - 2019 Cayman
@graphicguy
"I've thought about moving to CT."
I understand that you are in a higher income bracket than I am, but for you to get a house in Fairfield County equivalent to your current pad would have to have many zeros attached to it.
@laurasdada
I'm not from CT, but have grown to really love it here over the past 4 years. It is beautiful. We live about 5 1/2 mies from the beach. There are 3 sound beaches here in Stamford alone. Thanks for coming down & boosting the local economy;)
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
there are a few things that over the years I have come to consider must haves. Moonroof, with rare exceptions. But power drivers seat (since no one makes a fully adjustable manual seat any more, and I refuse to have a rachet and dump adjuster), steering wheel radio controls, and now back up camera are on the list.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
Wait till you have smart key; there's no going back...
25 NX 450h+ / 24 Sienna Plat AWD / 23 Civic Type-R / 21 Boxster GTS 4.0 / 03 Montero Ltd
NYC...during the "go-go" early internet bubble days, I was working for a startup, actually I was also one of the original founders. As it is today, the tech world believes the sun rises and sets in Silicon Valley. That's where the company was headquartered. While I had equity in the company (probably the 5th largest share holder in the company after we went public), I still had a boss...the CEO. I was willing to travel anywhere, any time, for any reason, and I did. I was in charge of our entire OEM and Channel marketing/sales organization (we came up with a critical component that high end computer makers needed). I was constantly on the road.
At one point, the CEO wanted me to move to the HQ in Milpitas, CA. While he never could offer any reason why having me in Milpitas would be any more beneficial to having me remote. I'd still have to travel all the time, and uprooting my (then) wife and son made no sense to me.
Well, the time finally came where an ultimatum was made to me....move or be demoted. Neither prospect was appealing. But, the wife and I started looking at real estate in and around the CA Bay Area.
The company was going to sell my current home, negotiate the new home (like for like), and pay for moving expenses, including setting us up in an apartment until I could move, plus pay the bridge loan until my old house sold. Actually, it was a pretty sweet deal given the circumstances.
Until, the CEO saw the housing price differential. I live in a nice house. It's not huge (~3K sq ft) and sits on ~3/4 acre in a decent neighborhood. In the midwest, that's not a mansion by any stretch of the imagination. Not entirely sure what it's worth today, but 20 years ago, when I had it built, it was worth $250K.
Same house, on similar land, in the Bay Area was well over $1M. After some initial conversations about how I didn't have the ocean near me in Cincinnati, and how San Francisco was culturally richer than Cincinnati (not sure of the validity of that), the CEO tried to talk me into something considerably smaller, with much less land. Even at that, something 1/2 the size on half the lot size was still going to cost $600K-$750K. That conversation didn't last too long after seeing those numbers. He also dropped his demand for me to move.
I'm imagining CT is sort of like CA in that respect.
Both the wife and daughter have that with their cars - very nice technology.
I got grief the other night as my car doesn't have HID headlights - there were deer on the side of the road when we were coming back from the movies. Wife commented that in the new MINI, the headlights are just amazing.
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2015 Subaru Outback 3.6R / 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX Prestige
Thanks for the warning. There is a dash trim kit available for the stang to allow me to put in the headunit of my choice. I'll probably do that one of these days.
'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
Yeah, add smart key to the list. And auto headlights. I like those too.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
I've probably said this here before, but I generally dislike auto headlights, as most of the current systems don't turn on when it's really cloudy or even raining--both of which are times when I would want them on. I'm in favor of other people having auto headlights, especially with the proliferation of backlit gauge clusters, which tend to make people believe their headlights are on when they aren't, causing them to drive with no headlights.
Yeah, I both like and dislike auto headlights. They SHOULD be programmed to come on with the wipers. I've noticed some cars are and some aren't.
'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
Moonroof – definitely do not like, just another potential leak, and it takes away from the headroom.
Power drivers seat (refuse to have a ratchet and dump) – a fully adjustable seat is an absolute necessity for me, else I simply cannot fit. The reason I have owned Ford and Chevy trucks instead of Dodge is that you cannot get a power seat in the Dodge without spending $40k. On the other hand, my Passat has a “ratchet and dump”, which suits me just fine. No one else drives it, it stays put in the fully down position so that I can fit in the car.
Steering wheel radio controls – I have owned several vehicles equipped with such controls, and I very rarely use them.
Back up camera – never owned a car equipped with a back up camera, but I have driven a few, and I do believe that would be addictive.
Smart key – I’ll keep an open mind, but I doubt that would ever make much of a difference to me.
HID headlights – yes, definitely. Why hasn’t the NHTSA made those mandatory, much as with seat belts and air bags?
My brother/father live in LA. At least in their neighborhoods, housing price seem more expensive than Fairfield County. One big difference is that for your 7 figures in CT (not all RE in CT is 7 figures, the RE guides I grabbed made it seem so, though!), you actually can get some land around your house!
Bradd, I stayed in Norwalk, dined in Norwalk and Greenwich. Sorry, none of my $$$ went directly to Stamford! What was nice was dining in two of the Italian places I frequented when I was a resident. As well as visiting Stew's. The excellent Italian restaruant in Westport where I proposed is no longer. Different restaurant. And downtown Westport (I guess like most downtowns?) has gone from Mom/Pop to Mall. Sad. Also, Bobby V's in Norwalk is gone, is there still one in Stamford?
'21 Dark Blue/Black Audi A7 PHEV (mine); '22 White/Beige BMW X3 (hers); '20 Estoril Blue/Oyster BMW M240xi 'Vert (Ours, read: hers in 'vert weather; mine during Nor'easters...)
CA real estate can be outrageously expensive.
To wit - my folks live in a town on the coast between LA and Santa Barbara. Tract home, built 1968, 1400sf on a 7200sf lot. Zillow pegs the value at just under $400K!
My home is 1600sf on a 5000sf lot here in Colorado, built in 2000. Zillow shows the value as about $225K.
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2015 Subaru Outback 3.6R / 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX Prestige
I believe my house in suburban Boston to be larger than my brother's home. But, I have 3/4 acre, he has probably 1-2/10 acre? But, his home (great view of hills, Pacific and downtown LA. When there's no smog, of course) litterally cost 10x mine to purchase.
'21 Dark Blue/Black Audi A7 PHEV (mine); '22 White/Beige BMW X3 (hers); '20 Estoril Blue/Oyster BMW M240xi 'Vert (Ours, read: hers in 'vert weather; mine during Nor'easters...)
what's the punch count? 5? It's June people! Did we lose CCBA members when edmunds switched over to the new format?
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
I got a "new" used van but can you really claim a CCBA punch when the last car you bought was in '03?
@stever
We're desperate for punches this year, so we'll take it. It only takes 1 punch to get the ball rolling again.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
We moved from the Bay Area about a year ago back to Seattle. LA prices seem cheaper than Seattle, but neither are close to the Bay Area. We lived in a 1br apartment in Oakland, and a unit in our building 1100 sq ft, no view, good neighborhood went for $525k. In Oakland, we aren't even talking about the city.
Strangely, the cars were cheaper. So that was nice.
25 NX 450h+ / 24 Sienna Plat AWD / 23 Civic Type-R / 21 Boxster GTS 4.0 / 03 Montero Ltd
Hey! What did you get? No sales story?
Details, please!
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2015 Subaru Outback 3.6R / 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX Prestige
Not ready to punch just yet, but I had a wavering moment on Sunday. I tried to roll down the windows on my 2000 Park Ave and the left rear one wouldn't budge. Wouldn't roll down using the rear switch, either. The car actually runs fine, but it has a variety of annoying little problems. Plus it's just starting to look a little old...dings here and there, a big rip in the seat, carpeting looking bad, two spots where the paint is fading, etc. I figured the window would be the straw that broke the camel's back. But then, out of the blue it worked again!
So, I guess I'm still holding tight. I have thought about finally retiring my '85 Silverado, but my uncle likes it because it doesn't sit as high as the Ram, so it's easier to load stuff in the back like lawn tractors, wood chippers, etc. But, it's getting so cranky that it seems like I'm the only one who can get it started. And, I prefer driving the Silverado when I go into DC over the weekends. I have to park on the street, and I figure it's only a matter of time before it gets sideswiped. I figure that the Park Ave would be too easy to total, while the Ram would get me mad because it's still fairly new. But if the Silverado got sideswiped, it would probably muff up whatever hit it, and just give the Silverado a few more "character lines"