oldfarmer50 wrote : "Sorry, but I refuse to be categorized as such. Democrat for most of my life. Just hate cheap shots. Didn't like 'em when they bashed Clinton either. " I know you do. A hardfish to peg.But at least you've finally come out. " A Democrat for most of my life, and now ? Be not now a faux conservative. Embrace your sense of entitlement. New Yorkers may occaisonally vote Republican for a mayor of the city or Governor but as to a member of Congress ? Embrace your inner FDR. Said with a kindly spirit unlike some previous posts of a,imo mean farmer. This may seem offensive, I am trying my darndest to negate. Merry Christmas to all.
So did Lincoln LS, Ford Thunderbird (the newest one) and a few more market flops. They werent' exactly bad cars, but the award did not help selling whatsoever.
But, like Joel said, at least Ford is trying to improve its products for consumers. GM has talked about its $40K Volt (which a regular person cannot afford), and Chrysler has said nothing.
I also agree with Richard - it's unfortunate that the working man who had nothing to do with the demise of the big 3 will be the one to suffer. The suits at the top will take their severence pay and buy an island in the tropics to retire. :surprise:
...and we, the taxpayers, will be left holding the check.
also agree with Richard - it's unfortunate that the working man who had nothing to do with the demise of the big 3 will be the one to suffer. The suits at the top will take their severence pay and buy an island in the tropics to retire
That is not exactly correct. "Regular working man" at D3 who happens to be in UAW has been receiving benefits and pay that was way in excess of pay for comparable work elsewhere for often even worse quality and less dedication. Union workers would not lift a log blocking the entrance if that was not in their job description. "Regular working man" employed in D3 could get laid off and go into "job bank", which literally meant sitting on a couch, watching TV for 8 hours and being paid full rate - for months. "Regular working man" at D3 got health insurance with no premiums and copays and covered Viagra prescription (did you know that GM was the largest signle payer of Viagra in the country?), wheareas I'm content to pay fifty-hundred bucks a month and pay copays. "Regular working man" at D3 would refuse to learn new technologies or techniques that would allow his company retool the factory more often (which of course would bring more product flexibility).
Finally, "regular working man" refused to listen when scores of people were telling him such situation was unsustainable and has to change if he were to keep his job for long term. No, he'd rather milk benefits as long as they last, prolong them beyond any reason and go on strike if anybody dared to propose even a small reduction, and when the company run out of cash, he sent Gettlefinger to Congress first to beg, then to scare, last to bash and blame everybody else.
No - I would say that "regular working man" at D3 is to blame in about the same extent as his, boss, the bosses boss and Rick Wagoner.
...and we, the taxpayers, will be left holding the check.
I saw on the ticker this morning watching the news that Chrysler has already said that if they don't restructure they won't be able to pay the $4 Billion back.
The inks not even dry on the check and they are already talking about defaulting.
Talk about something positive. Less than a month ago, you and I figured that $3,500 was about all that we could expect on incentives for the Grand Marquis. Well, now we're up to about $6,500 with Employee Pricing Plus savings. I had read that the Mercury line was in trouble and could be phased out. I have to wonder if this is the reason for the big savings. Regardless, $6,500 plus about $7,000 for my trade really knocks the money off that price tag for a GM. If we get a tax incentive in 2009 as is being discussed, there is no telling what I could save on a new GM. All of this is positive news---for the consumer at least.
I know that Santa is coming soon to see that grand baby. Have a great time.
But lets quit focusing on the negative. I challenge every one to come up with at least 10 positive notes for there favorite brand.
Positive thinking is a really good idea. The media seems to focus on the negative and of course everything gets distorted. Probably if the D3 shut down there would still be 90% employment. And that would soon get better as new companies moved in and took over the idle car plants.
My favorite brand is BMW; 1)the sports car sound of the engine in a 3 Series 330i 2)beautiful interior that is ergonomically thought out....and there is actually a hood you can see. 3)ultimate enginnering. Inline 6 cylinder for optimum performance. 15,000 miles between oil changes. Stayed with RWD because they wouldn't compromise. 4)scores high in safety tests and ranks high in satisfaction surveys. Introduces ABS and traction control and multiple airbags before US built cars - because safety is all important. 5)one of the top cars for retaining it's value - low depreciation 6)feel of the road and steering.....only Mercedes can come close 7)excellent gas mileage considering the engines, 25 to 30 mpg. That's with 300 hp and twin turbos! 8)European styling...............doesn't go out of style. In fact, I think they get better with age. I like 10 or 15 year old BMWs even more than new ones. Can't say that for too many American cars. 9)You can actually get a 6 speed transmission (in a car that doesn't really need it). This really enhances the driving experience....if you want some fun want to feel like you are part of the driving experience. 10)Tremendous value. I think if you take the initial cost, calculate the trade in value at the end of 5 years, consider the styling and engineering that you are enjoying, the cost of ownership per year won't be that much more. Those are my 10 reasons to be positive about my favorite cars.
I saw on the ticker this morning watching the news that Chrysler has already said that if they don't restructure they won't be able to pay the $4 Billion back.
The inks not even dry on the check and they are already talking about defaulting.
Saw that one coming a mile away. Cerebus and Daimler sticking their hands in the "loan gift sack". Probably already giving themselves a little Christmas bonus from that amount. We get to pay them for their idiocy and greed. Corporate malfeasance bordering on criminal.
Sorry, but that whole Chrysler/Daimler/Cerebus thing just really grates me, as well it should. I do feel sorry for the plant workers, the dealerships, the dealership employees, the engineers, the receptionists...who all are aligned with Chrysler. But, c'mon....Daimler gave Chrysler old parts bin components to work with. They egotistically thought that somehow their engineering staff was somehow better than Chrysler's, and cut them out. Based on all of that, they put out woeful new products, thinking people would buy it, regardless of how bad they were.
I think it if Cerebus can't pay back the loan, then it's time to start mortgaging some of their other holdings to get our money back.
If they won't do that, then it's time for Congress to haul Cerebus back before them, in public hearings, and demand to have a plan in place to give the workers some cushion for the eventuality that they're about to lose their jobs. Liquidate what's left of Cerebus to pay us back. Oh yeah.....Daimler still owns 20% of Chrysler. I think a phone call to Chancellor Merkel from President-Elect Obama would be in order to ask how Germany is going to cover that 20% Daimler defaulted on.
Can you tell I'm PO'd?
Joel....as you say, on a positive note, I've seen a few reviews of the hybrid Fusion. According to what I've read, it bests the Camry Hybrid. The new F-150, even though trucks aren't very popular right now, sounds like it's class leading. The Flex I'm not so sure about. Looks like that one was a swing and a miss.
They went into it planning on it being a short run. It is one of those units that with the Demographics of our customer base we were only going to sell so many, and if we kept pumping them out then they would just be another car on the road.
10)Tremendous value. I think if you take the initial cost, calculate the trade in value at the end of 5 years, consider the styling and engineering that you are enjoying, the cost of ownership per year won't be that much more.
Though it's been a few years since I compared the Accord to the 3-series, I came up with quite a different figure, and to me the value wasn't there with the BMW. Granted, I felt the 3-series was by far the better driving experience, but to me anyway, the value just wasn't there. That extra "driving experience" was quite expensive.
On the other hand these right wing senator nutjobs had no problem pumping in billions for a war in iraq (talk about being sold a bag of goods), yet can't seem to fund D3 for a fraction of the cost. Conservatives are all for being fiscally responsbile until it comes to the department of defense-- then they wrap themselves in the flag and borrow and spend spend spend. Must be nice to be able to print your own money.
Not to turn this into a political discussion but we could spend the next 5 years discussing what the goverment has wasted money on.
The ONLY reason they are making it such a PITA for the auto industry and acting like they are the second coming is because they finally have some one in front of them that the American public dislikes more then them.
That extra "driving experience" was quite expensive.
I'll say! My 114,000 mile 1995 3er's running costs have averaged @$50/month to run since I bought it new in November 1995. And that number includes three sets of W or Z-rated track rubber. Due to its track rat status it has needed two sets of front pads, one set of rear pads, and one set of rotors. Non-scheduled repairs have consisted of a thermostat and a brake light switch. My wife's X3 has needed one SRS sensor, which was replaced under warranty. The 60,000 mile service cost $424 and that included a brake fluid flush and the repair of a curbed alloy wheel. My Mazdaspeed3 :lemon: has needed more repairs and service. Gotta run; I need to take out a second mortgage to pay for the 3er's upcoming oil change!
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
I'm with roadburner on this one, Mike. A properly equipped (stick, sport package, nothing else) 3 will give satisfaction for many years if you take care of it.
I am looking for your email address. I have some papers I am writing that I need proof read. If you can send me a message with your contact I would appreciate it.
joel....if a KR Mustang doesn't get some eyeballs in your showroom, then the stars in the universe must not be aligning.
I kid of had it pegged between $80K-$85K.
As an aside, I mentioned a while ago that my best friend scored an '08 Cobra. I had only seen it, not driven it.
Well, get a call this a.m. The battery's dead in it. No the car's fault. He's only put less than 100 miles on it since he bought it. And, it's cold outside.
So, I mosey over to his house with my jumpers. As I told him, it would probably be a good idea to drive it for 10 miles or so to re-charge the battery. He flips me the keys and we're off to Pannera.
Man, was it a beast of a car. It's got gobs and gobs of torque and makes great sounds. Didn't get into any twisties, but the suspension felt pliable for a premiere muscle machine. Don't know how that would translate on a winding road. But, very livable if it was a daily driver.
He said the reason he's not driving it (aside from in being winter) is he's looking at it as an investment. My take.....that's probably a bad move, unless he's going to drive it 100 miles/year over the next 2-3 decades.
Still, I was expecting a "hoary" beast. But, I was pleasantly surprised at the way it drove.
The ONLY reason they are making it such a PITA for the auto industry and acting like they are the second coming is because they finally have some one in front of them that the American public dislikes more then them.
Maybe Lawyers will ask for a bail out next and the automakers will be off the hook?
A properly equipped (stick, sport package, nothing else) 3 will give satisfaction for many years if you take care of it.
Oh, no disagreement here, side by side the BMW is the clear winner over the Accord, IMO. But not at the significant extra cost. The Accord just has more value, to me anyways. Others will disagree. I guess I look at vehicles more as something to get me from point A to point B.
>Obama presidency and period where the Dems hold massive majorities in Congress, so now the Big 3 collapses during their watch???
The Dems already have been in control of congress since 06 election. This is their problem. It's just the media doesn't like to couch it that way for political bashing reasons.
He said the reason he's not driving it (aside from in being winter) is he's looking at it as an investment.
He needs to be severely beaten with a heavy blunt object for about twelve hours and then forced to drive a Kia Rio for the rest of his miserable life. As my friends who have classic motorcycles like to say, "Don't hide it, RIDE it!"
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
But lets quit focusing on the negative. I challenge every one to come up with at least 10 positive notes for there favorite brand
Well since I sell Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep for a living here my list:
1. Jeep is one of the most recognizable name brands in the world. 2. Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 is one of the quickest SUVs on the planet with a 0-60 time in 4.4 seconds 3. Chrysler is the last of Big 3 to continue manufacturing a minivan. Ford and GM gave up on theirs. We also manufacture the minivan for VW. 4. The Chrysler 300 is the most awarded new car in automotive history. 5. The Dodge Magnum made wagons cool again before it was discontinued. 6. Chrysler's minivans were the first, and still the only minivans to offer all 2 rows of completely flat folding seats. 7. The Dodge Challenger was one of the most anticipated new cars for 08. 8. Chrysler is the only manufacturer to have a well known skyscraper in New York. 9. Chrysler is the only manufacturer who has 3 working electric concept vehicles that are sorta-maybe ready for production hopefully sometime soon. :P 10.The new Dodge Ram is the only full size pickup to use coil rear suspension for added comfort whilke retaining excellent payload and towing capabilities.
As it happens, I'm a longtime Honda fan. A 4-cylinder stick Accord is a surprisingly entertaining car to drive for not a whole lot of money. It's one of the best-kept secrets around.
We bought a new '87 Accord LXi (back then, the top of the line) 5-speed sedan & kept it for almost 12 years. Fun to drive, economical (35+ mpg at 75 mph with the A/C running), comfortable & reliable (even during the last couple of years that we had it, repair costs were less than $1K/year). Just an all-around great car. We still talk about it.
Yeah, I'm cheap, too. The BMW is a bit out of character for me.
Yeah, I'm cheap, too. The BMW is a bit out of character for me.
In my case, I got hooked on Bimmers back in 1971- in 8th Grade. Reading David E. Davis Jr.'s Car and Driver article entitled "Turn Your Hymnals to 2002" sealed the deal. Twelve years later I sold my one-owner Arrow 2.6 GT and bought a 1973 Bavaria:
I haven't looked back since. In fact, my only real regret is passing up a couple of nice 330i ZHPs and a beautiful E46 M3 in favor of a new 2007 Mazdaspeed 3 :lemon: :mad:
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
That KR stands for King of the Road, an ambitious moniker for any car that starts its life as a US$20,000-plus V6-powered econo sports car. More ambitious still --and the source of my opening line -- is that Ford is asking US$79,995 for Shelby's latest take on the Mustang. (Canadian pricing and even its availability have yet to be confirmed.) Yes, you read that right --a US$80,000 Stang, archaic solid rear axle, tight rear seats and all.
What makes the price seem even more outrageous is that Ford already offers a Shelby-ized Mustang in its lineup -- the GT500 -- that shares most of its specifications with the GT500KR and comes with a relatively bargain-basement retail price of US$44,995. That's a US$35,000 difference for what is essentially a mild upgrade.
Take the engine, for instance. Both the GT500 and the GT-500KR are powered by Ford's lusty, supercharged 5.4-litre V8. Sporting force-fed induction and double overhead cams, it is both sophisticated and powerful. In GT500 guise, it's good enough for 500 horsepower and 480 pound-feet of torque, more than capable numbers in anyone's estimation.
In King of the Road form -- thanks to a cold air intake system and some judicious finagling of its ignition timing -- there's an additional 40 ponies and 30 lb-ft of torque. Combined with a shorter, 3.73:1 rear axle (the GT500 uses a less acceleration-friendly 3.31:1 ratio), the KR scoots to 96 kilo-metres an hour in 4.3 seconds, just 0.2 of a second ahead of the garden-variety GT500. The blown 5.4L is a torquey beast and the supercharger whine is intoxicating. But, while the KR is the most powerful production Mustang of all time, its extra 40 ponies sure aren't indicative of the extra $35,000.
Would someone here actually spend $35,000 for an extra .02 seconds?
rb, your Bavaria looks nicer than 98.8% of the cars on the road today. BMW should make those and market it as the "Classic" model. I would buy one of those over any 2009 model offered (with the latest technology of course). Compare that to any 1973 B3 cars and you can see the design is so classic it is still as nice today as it was back then.
rb, your Bavaria looks nicer than 98.8% of the cars on the road today.
Thanks. That's not my Bavaria, mine was the same color(Riviera Blue) but it had early 733i alloys and no fogs. Unfortunately, I sold it in order to buy a 1987 535is:
Again, not mine, but the same color(Cinnebar Red). In any event, I guess you CAN go home again, as I picked up this 1975 2002 a couple of months ago:
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
Just pay BMW to hand over the blueprints for these models. Sales will go through the roof!
You can kind of tell that BMW was trying to incorporate a bit of the 2002 styling into the 1 Series, but they didn't quite pull it off. In all fairness the BMWs of the '60s and early '70s incorporate several stying cues from the second generation Corvair:
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
"4) [BMW] scores high in safety tests and ranks high in satisfaction surveys. Introduces ABS and traction control and multiple airbags before US built cars - because safety is all important. "
The antilock braking system first brought to market by Bosch in 1978 prevents wheel lock during full braking. This ensures that the vehicle can still be steered and moved out of the way of unexpected obstacles.
“ABS substantially improves driving stability and usually shortens the brake path as well,” says Wolfgang Drees, member of the management board at Robert Bosch GmbH and head of its Chassis Systems division. Today, more than two thirds of all new vehicles manufactured worldwide are equipped with ABS.
Bosch filed a patent application for an “Apparatus for preventing lock-braking of the wheels of a motor vehicle” as early as 1936.
In 1978 Bosch was the world’s first automotive supplier to present an ABS system ready for mass production. By October that year, the ABS 2 was available on the market for the first time in S-Class cars from Mercedes-Benz. Integration in the BMW 7 series followed in December.
My point really is that Europeans seem to demand safety equipment. I know I tested a 1999 BMW and it had traction control before it was available on American cars....and it was standard equipment. They have been using multiple airbags as standard equipment for a long time before American manufacturers installed them. The last edition of the Monte Carlo only got them in the final year or two.
Also, you might be interested to know; Since production-line manufacturing of ABS took off in 1978, Bosch has delivered 100 million ABS systems worldwide. Soon, no new car in Europe is to come without an antilock braking system. The European federation of automotive manufacturers has committed itself to fitting all news cars sold in Europe with ABS as standard from mid-2004 onwards.
Independent. Merry Christmas to you and yours. " Mixing forums are we now ? Independent, mein tuckus ! Caroline after Hillary. Moynehan before. Now mayor of NYC or Governor they are flexible. Otherwise what have you done for me today? Now back to car sales as all know is my primary focus.
Comments
I do appreciate the positive approach and I'll try to compile a list.
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
But hopefully we'll get another chance in Jan.
BTW, it wasn't cool the way they stepped on the terrible towel. That was just uncalled for.
"Sorry, but I refuse to be categorized as such. Democrat for most of my life. Just hate cheap shots. Didn't like 'em when they bashed Clinton either. "
I know you do. A hardfish to peg.But at least you've finally come out. " A Democrat for most of my life, and now ? Be not now a faux conservative. Embrace your sense of entitlement. New Yorkers may occaisonally vote Republican for a mayor of the city or Governor but as to a member of Congress ?
Embrace your inner FDR. Said with a kindly spirit unlike some previous posts of a,imo mean farmer. This may seem offensive, I am trying my darndest to negate. Merry Christmas to all.
2018 430i Gran Coupe
I also agree with Richard - it's unfortunate that the working man who had nothing to do with the demise of the big 3 will be the one to suffer. The suits at the top will take their severence pay and buy an island in the tropics to retire. :surprise:
...and we, the taxpayers, will be left holding the check.
That is not exactly correct. "Regular working man" at D3 who happens to be in UAW has been receiving benefits and pay that was way in excess of pay for comparable work elsewhere for often even worse quality and less dedication. Union workers would not lift a log blocking the entrance if that was not in their job description. "Regular working man" employed in D3 could get laid off and go into "job bank", which literally meant sitting on a couch, watching TV for 8 hours and being paid full rate - for months. "Regular working man" at D3 got health insurance with no premiums and copays and covered Viagra prescription (did you know that GM was the largest signle payer of Viagra in the country?), wheareas I'm content to pay fifty-hundred bucks a month and pay copays. "Regular working man" at D3 would refuse to learn new technologies or techniques that would allow his company retool the factory more often (which of course would bring more product flexibility).
Finally, "regular working man" refused to listen when scores of people were telling him such situation was unsustainable and has to change if he were to keep his job for long term. No, he'd rather milk benefits as long as they last, prolong them beyond any reason and go on strike if anybody dared to propose even a small reduction, and when the company run out of cash, he sent Gettlefinger to Congress first to beg, then to scare, last to bash and blame everybody else.
No - I would say that "regular working man" at D3 is to blame in about the same extent as his, boss, the bosses boss and Rick Wagoner.
2018 430i Gran Coupe
I have one of each in stock + a KR Mustang.
I saw on the ticker this morning watching the news that Chrysler has already said that if they don't restructure they won't be able to pay the $4 Billion back.
The inks not even dry on the check and they are already talking about defaulting.
Independent. Merry Christmas to you and yours.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
I know that Santa is coming soon to see that grand baby. Have a great time.
Richard
I guess it was even more expensive to manufacture - just like LS - so profits weren't there. Don't we know that story?
2018 430i Gran Coupe
Positive thinking is a really good idea. The media seems to focus on the negative and of course everything gets distorted. Probably if the D3 shut down there would still be 90% employment. And that would soon get better as new companies moved in and took over the idle car plants.
My favorite brand is BMW;
1)the sports car sound of the engine in a 3 Series 330i
2)beautiful interior that is ergonomically thought out....and there is actually a hood you can see.
3)ultimate enginnering. Inline 6 cylinder for optimum performance. 15,000 miles between oil changes. Stayed with RWD because they wouldn't compromise.
4)scores high in safety tests and ranks high in satisfaction surveys. Introduces ABS and traction control and multiple airbags before US built cars - because safety is all important.
5)one of the top cars for retaining it's value - low depreciation
6)feel of the road and steering.....only Mercedes can come close
7)excellent gas mileage considering the engines, 25 to 30 mpg. That's with 300 hp and twin turbos!
8)European styling...............doesn't go out of style. In fact, I think they get better with age. I like 10 or 15 year old BMWs even more than new ones. Can't say that for too many American cars.
9)You can actually get a 6 speed transmission (in a car that doesn't really need it). This really enhances the driving experience....if you want some fun want to feel like you are part of the driving experience.
10)Tremendous value. I think if you take the initial cost, calculate the trade in value at the end of 5 years, consider the styling and engineering that you are enjoying, the cost of ownership per year won't be that much more.
Those are my 10 reasons to be positive about my favorite cars.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
The inks not even dry on the check and they are already talking about defaulting.
Saw that one coming a mile away. Cerebus and Daimler sticking their hands in the "loan gift sack". Probably already giving themselves a little Christmas bonus from that amount. We get to pay them for their idiocy and greed. Corporate malfeasance bordering on criminal.
Sorry, but that whole Chrysler/Daimler/Cerebus thing just really grates me, as well it should. I do feel sorry for the plant workers, the dealerships, the dealership employees, the engineers, the receptionists...who all are aligned with Chrysler. But, c'mon....Daimler gave Chrysler old parts bin components to work with. They egotistically thought that somehow their engineering staff was somehow better than Chrysler's, and cut them out. Based on all of that, they put out woeful new products, thinking people would buy it, regardless of how bad they were.
I think it if Cerebus can't pay back the loan, then it's time to start mortgaging some of their other holdings to get our money back.
If they won't do that, then it's time for Congress to haul Cerebus back before them, in public hearings, and demand to have a plan in place to give the workers some cushion for the eventuality that they're about to lose their jobs. Liquidate what's left of Cerebus to pay us back. Oh yeah.....Daimler still owns 20% of Chrysler. I think a phone call to Chancellor Merkel from President-Elect Obama would be in order to ask how Germany is going to cover that 20% Daimler defaulted on.
Can you tell I'm PO'd?
Joel....as you say, on a positive note, I've seen a few reviews of the hybrid Fusion. According to what I've read, it bests the Camry Hybrid. The new F-150, even though trucks aren't very popular right now, sounds like it's class leading. The Flex I'm not so sure about. Looks like that one was a swing and a miss.
BTW, what's the KR Mustang going for?
They went into it planning on it being a short run. It is one of those units that with the Demographics of our customer base we were only going to sell so many, and if we kept pumping them out then they would just be another car on the road.
Though it's been a few years since I compared the Accord to the 3-series, I came up with quite a different figure, and to me the value wasn't there with the BMW. Granted, I felt the 3-series was by far the better driving experience, but to me anyway, the value just wasn't there. That extra "driving experience" was quite expensive.
Good question $82555, that is MSRP no dealer adendum on it. We just got it so we will see what kind of play we get on it. Its an 09 model
The ONLY reason they are making it such a PITA for the auto industry and acting like they are the second coming is because they finally have some one in front of them that the American public dislikes more then them.
I'll say! My 114,000 mile 1995 3er's running costs have averaged @$50/month to run since I bought it new in November 1995. And that number includes three sets of W or Z-rated track rubber. Due to its track rat status it has needed two sets of front pads, one set of rear pads, and one set of rotors. Non-scheduled repairs have consisted of a thermostat and a brake light switch. My wife's X3 has needed one SRS sensor, which was replaced under warranty. The 60,000 mile service cost $424 and that included a brake fluid flush and the repair of a curbed alloy wheel. My Mazdaspeed3 :lemon: has needed more repairs and service.
Gotta run; I need to take out a second mortgage to pay for the 3er's upcoming oil change!
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
Talk about a flash in the pan! now, they can't give them away except to the rental companies!
Hey Rich,
I am looking for your email address. I have some papers I am writing that I need proof read. If you can send me a message with your contact I would appreciate it.
Mike
AKA: GP
I kid of had it pegged between $80K-$85K.
As an aside, I mentioned a while ago that my best friend scored an '08 Cobra. I had only seen it, not driven it.
Well, get a call this a.m. The battery's dead in it. No the car's fault. He's only put less than 100 miles on it since he bought it. And, it's cold outside.
So, I mosey over to his house with my jumpers. As I told him, it would probably be a good idea to drive it for 10 miles or so to re-charge the battery. He flips me the keys and we're off to Pannera.
Man, was it a beast of a car. It's got gobs and gobs of torque and makes great sounds. Didn't get into any twisties, but the suspension felt pliable for a premiere muscle machine. Don't know how that would translate on a winding road. But, very livable if it was a daily driver.
He said the reason he's not driving it (aside from in being winter) is he's looking at it as an investment. My take.....that's probably a bad move, unless he's going to drive it 100 miles/year over the next 2-3 decades.
Still, I was expecting a "hoary" beast. But, I was pleasantly surprised at the way it drove.
Maybe Lawyers will ask for a bail out next and the automakers will be off the hook?
Oh, no disagreement here, side by side the BMW is the clear winner over the Accord, IMO. But not at the significant extra cost. The Accord just has more value, to me anyways. Others will disagree. I guess I look at vehicles more as something to get me from point A to point B.
And I guess I'm cheap, LOL
Ford makes King Ranch Mustangs now? :P
2016 Audi A7 3.0T S Line, 2021 Subaru WRX
The Dems already have been in control of congress since 06 election. This is their problem. It's just the media doesn't like to couch it that way for political bashing reasons.
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
He needs to be severely beaten with a heavy blunt object for about twelve hours and then forced to drive a Kia Rio for the rest of his miserable life. As my friends who have classic motorcycles like to say, "Don't hide it, RIDE it!"
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
Well since I sell Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep for a living here my list:
1. Jeep is one of the most recognizable name brands in the world.
2. Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 is one of the quickest SUVs on the planet with a
0-60 time in 4.4 seconds
3. Chrysler is the last of Big 3 to continue manufacturing a minivan. Ford and GM
gave up on theirs. We also manufacture the minivan for VW.
4. The Chrysler 300 is the most awarded new car in automotive history.
5. The Dodge Magnum made wagons cool again before it was discontinued.
6. Chrysler's minivans were the first, and still the only minivans to offer all 2 rows of
completely flat folding seats.
7. The Dodge Challenger was one of the most anticipated new cars for 08.
8. Chrysler is the only manufacturer to have a well known skyscraper in New York.
9. Chrysler is the only manufacturer who has 3 working electric concept vehicles
that are sorta-maybe ready for production hopefully sometime soon. :P
10.The new Dodge Ram is the only full size pickup to use coil rear suspension for
added comfort whilke retaining excellent payload and towing capabilities.
2016 Audi A7 3.0T S Line, 2021 Subaru WRX
We bought a new '87 Accord LXi (back then, the top of the line) 5-speed sedan & kept it for almost 12 years. Fun to drive, economical (35+ mpg at 75 mph with the A/C running), comfortable & reliable (even during the last couple of years that we had it, repair costs were less than $1K/year). Just an all-around great car. We still talk about it.
Yeah, I'm cheap, too. The BMW is a bit out of character for me.
In my case, I got hooked on Bimmers back in 1971- in 8th Grade. Reading David E. Davis Jr.'s Car and Driver article entitled "Turn Your Hymnals to 2002" sealed the deal. Twelve years later I sold my one-owner Arrow 2.6 GT and bought a 1973 Bavaria:
I haven't looked back since. In fact, my only real regret is passing up a couple of nice 330i ZHPs and a beautiful E46 M3 in favor of a new 2007 Mazdaspeed 3 :lemon:
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
That KR stands for King of the Road, an ambitious moniker for any car that starts its life as a US$20,000-plus V6-powered econo sports car. More ambitious still --and the source of my opening line -- is that Ford is asking US$79,995 for Shelby's latest take on the Mustang. (Canadian pricing and even its availability have yet to be confirmed.) Yes, you read that right --a US$80,000 Stang, archaic solid rear axle, tight rear seats and all.
What makes the price seem even more outrageous is that Ford already offers a Shelby-ized Mustang in its lineup -- the GT500 -- that shares most of its specifications with the GT500KR and comes with a relatively bargain-basement retail price of US$44,995. That's a US$35,000 difference for what is essentially a mild upgrade.
Take the engine, for instance. Both the GT500 and the GT-500KR are powered by Ford's lusty, supercharged 5.4-litre V8. Sporting force-fed induction and double overhead cams, it is both sophisticated and powerful. In GT500 guise, it's good enough for 500 horsepower and 480 pound-feet of torque, more than capable numbers in anyone's estimation.
In King of the Road form -- thanks to a cold air intake system and some judicious finagling of its ignition timing -- there's an additional 40 ponies and 30 lb-ft of torque. Combined with a shorter, 3.73:1 rear axle (the GT500 uses a less acceleration-friendly 3.31:1 ratio), the KR scoots to 96 kilo-metres an hour in 4.3 seconds, just 0.2 of a second ahead of the garden-variety GT500. The blown 5.4L is a torquey beast and the supercharger whine is intoxicating. But, while the KR is the most powerful production Mustang of all time, its extra 40 ponies sure aren't indicative of the extra $35,000.
Would someone here actually spend $35,000 for an extra .02 seconds?
I am waiting for the KY Mustang
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
rb, your Bavaria looks nicer than 98.8% of the cars on the road today. BMW should make those and market it as the "Classic" model. I would buy one of those over any 2009 model offered (with the latest technology of course). Compare that to any 1973 B3 cars and you can see the design is so classic it is still as nice today as it was back then.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
For that money I'd get myself a Nissan GTR that is in the same league as some Ferraris and Porsche 911 Turbos.
2016 Audi A7 3.0T S Line, 2021 Subaru WRX
True, except we haven't figured out what that is.
2016 Audi A7 3.0T S Line, 2021 Subaru WRX
Thanks. That's not my Bavaria, mine was the same color(Riviera Blue) but it had early 733i alloys and no fogs. Unfortunately, I sold it in order to buy a 1987 535is:
Again, not mine, but the same color(Cinnebar Red). In any event, I guess you CAN go home again, as I picked up this 1975 2002 a couple of months ago:
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
First step GM should do is fire all there designers. Just pay BMW to hand over the blueprints for these models. Sales will go through the roof!
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
that are sorta-maybe ready for production hopefully sometime soon.
I love your number 9. I think that says it all.
LOL
I hope they are ready by March 31!
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
You can kind of tell that BMW was trying to incorporate a bit of the 2002 styling into the 1 Series, but they didn't quite pull it off. In all fairness the BMWs of the '60s and early '70s incorporate several stying cues from the second generation Corvair:
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
Oh, yeah! Great article - possibly C&D's best. Corrupted many young minds - including mine. I never recovered.
I love your number 9. I think that says it all.
LOL
I hope they are ready by March 31!
Maybe we can start collecting deposits for them today - and get enough to finance their production tomorrow
2016 Audi A7 3.0T S Line, 2021 Subaru WRX
Didn't GM pioneer ABS (in the Corvette)?
"I'll gladly pay you Tuesday for a hamburger today."
You need to be old enough, but. . .
No, they didn't.........
The antilock braking system first brought to market by Bosch in 1978 prevents wheel lock during full braking. This ensures that the vehicle can still be steered and moved out of the way of unexpected obstacles.
“ABS substantially improves driving stability and usually shortens the brake path as well,” says Wolfgang Drees, member of the management board at Robert Bosch GmbH and head of its Chassis Systems division. Today, more than two thirds of all new vehicles manufactured worldwide are equipped with ABS.
Bosch filed a patent application for an “Apparatus for preventing lock-braking of the wheels of a motor vehicle” as early as 1936.
In 1978 Bosch was the world’s first automotive supplier to present an ABS system ready for mass production. By October that year, the ABS 2 was available on the market for the first time in S-Class cars from Mercedes-Benz. Integration in the BMW 7 series followed in December.
My point really is that Europeans seem to demand safety equipment. I know I tested a 1999 BMW and it had traction control before it was available on American cars....and it was standard equipment. They have been using multiple airbags as standard equipment for a long time before American manufacturers installed them. The last edition of the Monte Carlo only got them in the final year or two.
Also, you might be interested to know;
Since production-line manufacturing of ABS took off in 1978, Bosch has delivered 100 million ABS systems worldwide.
Soon, no new car in Europe is to come without an antilock braking system. The European federation of automotive manufacturers has committed itself to fitting all news cars sold in Europe with ABS as standard from mid-2004 onwards.
You can read more at;
httpBosche
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Richard
"...and now?..."
Independent. Merry Christmas to you and yours. "
Mixing forums are we now ? Independent, mein tuckus ! Caroline after Hillary. Moynehan before.
Now mayor of NYC or Governor they are flexible. Otherwise what have you done for me today? Now back to car sales as all know is my primary focus.
That would be username@carspace.com.
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