In any case, the effect on your credit is short-term. And, I'm not sure going from 825 to 795 is going to change anyone's life.
Amen to that! When it comes to credit, the only thing that will change a person's life is to carry long-term credit card balances. And, it's not a good change, either.
2018 Subaru Crosstrek, 2014 Audi Q7 TDI, 2013 Subaru Forester, 2013 Ford F250 Lariat D, 1976 Ford F250, 1969 Chevrolet C20, 1969 Ford Econoline 100
Thoughts on replacing a spare donut after 10 years? Getting the tires rotated on the Outback, and Discount is recommending that I do this.
I don’t think I’ve ever had the spare out of the well, but I do know that they can dry rot over time.
Roughly $100, give or take.
Really depends on the condition of the spare! It lives in close to the best possible environment down in that well.... no sun, no abrasion, no risk of damage. The biggest risk with a donut spare is that you won't have good pressure in it when/if you do need it simply due to being out of sight and out of mind.
If you have used it before, left it outside for extended periods, or run it while low on air, then yeah, probably worth replacing. If you put some 303 protectant on it once every few years, it will last forever even with some use or abuse. Otherwise, It will most likely last the life of the car.
2018 Subaru Crosstrek, 2014 Audi Q7 TDI, 2013 Subaru Forester, 2013 Ford F250 Lariat D, 1976 Ford F250, 1969 Chevrolet C20, 1969 Ford Econoline 100
Thoughts on replacing a spare donut after 10 years? Getting the tires rotated on the Outback, and Discount is recommending that I do this.
I don’t think I’ve ever had the spare out of the well, but I do know that they can dry rot over time.
Roughly $100, give or take.
Really depends on the condition of the spare! It lives in close to the best possible environment down in that well.... no sun, no abrasion, no risk of damage. The biggest risk with a donut spare is that you won't have good pressure in it when/if you do need it simply due to being out of sight and out of mind.
If you have used it before, left it outside for extended periods, or run it while low on air, then yeah, probably worth replacing. If you put some 303 protectant on it once every few years, it will last forever even with some use or abuse. Otherwise, It will most likely last the life of the car.
You can probably usually find a compressor, but a replacement wheel/tire may be much harder to come by, especially in remote areas or on a weekend. So the worst that could happen is your spare doesn't get you all the way to where you need to go; so if remote driving isn't in your future; I'd take my chances.
'18 Porsche Macan Turbo, '16 Audi TTS, Wife's '19 VW Tiguan SEL 4-Motion
Last year, I checked the spare in one of the kid's cars. After 12 years it was low on air. I put air in it and checked it a couple days later. The pressure reading was the same.
2024 Ford F-150 STX, 2023 Ford Explorer ST, 91 Mustang GT vert
I’m shocked, I tells ya, shocked, that a massive insurance company that spends a small fortune every year on a feel-good marketing campaign really isn’t good to deal with.
For perhaps some members here I hope this Automotive News report does not kill your purchase ambitions too much:
It’s not a good time to sell imported luxury or ultraluxury vehicles in the U.S. Sales and registration data reported by Jack Walsworth in this story point out a clear downward trend for upscale brands in 2025.
And given that the full bite of President Donald Trump’s tariffs and trade wars won’t be felt until the third and fourth quarters, there’s little hope for sales gains for the luxury brands in the U.S. this year.
Why? The simple answer is that most luxury and ultraluxury vehicles come to the U.S. from Europe.
Granted, higher sticker prices from tariffs are the very definition of a first-world problem for wealthy car buyers. Paul Waatti, director of industry analysis at AutoPacific, told Walsworth that exotic and ultraluxury vehicle shoppers are less price-sensitive than others.
“But that doesn’t mean they’re indifferent,” Waatti said. “A $50,000 swing in tariffs or taxes might not dissuade someone buying a $400,000 vehicle, but it could shift the timing or the configuration.”
Customers are canceling orders for $750,000 Lamborghini Revueltos when the price rises an additional $75,000 because of tariffs, said one dealer who requested not to be identified.
Robert DiStanislao, president of RDS Automotive, a prominent ultraluxury dealership group, said the wind has come out of the sails at his stores, which represent Bugatti, McLaren, Lamborghini, Ferrari, Porsche and Ineos, Walsworth wrote.
“It’s incredibly frustrating,” DiStanislao said. “Because of the uncertainty, people are canceling orders and don’t know how to proceed. It’s ruining confidence on a multitude of levels.”
My wife and I just returned from a two hour tour through Subaru's vast factory in Lafayette, Indiana. The tour is free, but needs to be reserved in advance. The factory was more colossal than even I had imagined, and the production process even more complex.
You walk on catwalks around twenty to thirty feet or so above the floor, on different levels, going up and down stairs. Forty foot high steel presses that were really buildings within the building press steel with many tons of pressure. Overhead conveyors of a size almost beyond belief move across the ceiling above you transporting heavy machinery. Sometimes things are somewhat enclosed, while other times the factory goes on pretty much as far as the eye can see.
Synchronized welding robots make sparks that go up thirty feet or so. Workers ride bikes in the factory, as well as operate a variety of electric vehicles carrying parts. Blue light and infrared for inspection of car bodies looked surreal and science fictional.
Ten thousand workers a day work at the factory in two shifts. It has been expanded many times since it first opened in 1989, and the total cost for the facility is in the billions. They've made about eight million vehicles at that plant since it opened. The workers were working hard, but took pride in their work. A few waved and smiled at us as we did our tour. Maybe around a third of the workers are women. Saw workers installing headliners, working on Boxer engines, assembling all sorts of parts, quality control, etc.
We all wore headphones so that everyone could hear our knowledgeable tour guide above the considerable but not unpleasant sounds of cars being made.
When I was ten someone gave me a book on the Model T and the factory pictures in it interested me. Now half a century later I've finally seen an actual car factory in operation, and it exceeded expectations. My wife thought it was very interesting too. None of the individual pix or videos I've seen quite convey the jaw-dropping size and multilayered complexity of these facilities, with parts being moved up and down many levels by robots.
Pictures are strictly forbidden. But these photos from Subaru, Motor Trend, and other sources give some good glimpses....
Mass production.... makes you wonder why it's still so expensive. Has anyone done the spreadsheet on what it would cost to build their new car if you ordered every part separately piece by piece from the parts department vs. MSRP?
'18 Porsche Macan Turbo, '16 Audi TTS, Wife's '19 VW Tiguan SEL 4-Motion
@qbrozen, Agree with you on the 300K opening bid. Probably a shill.
Re: The Cobra R, original was around 01, naturally aspirated 5.4 @ 385 HP. 03/04 Terminator Cobra had a supercharged 4.6 with 390 HP. 05 Ford GT had a supercharged 5.4 with 540 HP. I would tread very, very carefully with someone claiming to have a 700 HP example.
2024 Ford F-150 STX, 2023 Ford Explorer ST, 91 Mustang GT vert
@Michaell - I’d leave the spare alone. Keep it aired up to spec and drive slowly, avoiding the interstate, if you ever need to use it, since it may not be able to handle the heat that comes with high speeds.
For perhaps some members here I hope this Automotive News report does not kill your purchase ambitions too much:
I think it is way more appropriate to tax the snot out of purchases like those than it is to tax the someone's income in the same way. People make choices about purchases that includes accepting such added cost.
2018 Subaru Crosstrek, 2014 Audi Q7 TDI, 2013 Subaru Forester, 2013 Ford F250 Lariat D, 1976 Ford F250, 1969 Chevrolet C20, 1969 Ford Econoline 100
This shows 6 Stratos sales in the past 5 years. This is only the second one ever on BaT. Griots thought that it could get lost in the auctions during car week at Monterey, and it might get more eyeballs on BaT. Given they already have sold a seven figure car in the past year on BaT, they decided to try it again. And of course, BaT was keen to get the listing.
@explorerx4 said: @qbrozen,
Agree with you on the 300K opening bid. Probably a shill.
Re: The Cobra R, original was around 01, naturally aspirated 5.4 @ 385 HP.
03/04 Terminator Cobra had a supercharged 4.6 with 390 HP.
05 Ford GT had a supercharged 5.4 with 540 HP.
I would tread very, very carefully with someone claiming to have a 700 HP example.
It is a particular group I’m in. All fully built cars for sale. Seller took a cobra r engine and built it with forged internals, etc.
'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
Mass production.... makes you wonder why it's still so expensive. Has anyone done the spreadsheet on what it would cost to build their new car if you ordered every part separately piece by piece from the parts department vs. MSRP?
I seem to remember reading a long time ago that a $5k car would cost $25k to replace all the parts. Must have been a long, long time ago for there to be $5k cars.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Mass production.... makes you wonder why it's still so expensive. Has anyone done the spreadsheet on what it would cost to build their new car if you ordered every part separately piece by piece from the parts department vs. MSRP?
I seem to remember reading a long time ago that a $5k car would cost $25k to replace all the parts. Must have been a long, long time ago for there to be $5k cars.
IIRC it was a Motor Trend article in 1971 about putting together a 71 Impala part by part. I wonder if that factor of 5 is higher today.
2021 VW Arteon SEL 4-motion, 2018 VW Passat SE w/tech, 2016 Audi Q5 Premium Plus w/tech
(1) How's the Porsche? I thought of you recently when I saw a Benzes & Bowties video where they took in an (I think) '04 911 Turbo Cab with a 6-Speed Stick. Silver with a light grey top (that worked mechanically, but needed to be refinished or replaced) and a light grey interior.
(2) Any updates on the Jetta?
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
"Between the termination of the federal EV tax credit moving up from the end of the year to September 30 and Mercedes's struggling EV sales, the brand is taking more drastic actions than simple price cuts. According to a report by Motor1.com, Mercedes will end production of all four U.S.-market EQ products (excluding the EQB), starting on September 1."
Who knew that selling car care products and accessories could be so profitable? I used to keep up with the wash/wax/protectant debates you would find online where those who cared obsessively about such things would talk about "the best!" products to use for whatever purpose. I don't remember many Griot products being mentioned in those discussions; it was usually even more obscure stuff. I did get their catalog once and seem to recall being impressed by the price points they were asking. Stuff wasn't cheap, which I guess explains how the founder could afford to buy 6-figure cars for his collection.
Japanese Kei-cars by regulation can't be more than 1.48 meters wide, which is 58.3 inches, and 3.4 meters long, which is 134 inches. Engines need to be no larger than .66 liters, but can be hybrid or turbo.
This is shorter than a 1975 US Civic, which was 150 inches long and 59.3 inches wide.
Who knew that selling car care products and accessories could be so profitable? I used to keep up with the wash/wax/protectant debates you would find online where those who cared obsessively about such things would talk about "the best!" products to use for whatever purpose. I don't remember many Griot products being mentioned in those discussions; it was usually even more obscure stuff. I did get their catalog once and seem to recall being impressed by the price points they were asking. Stuff wasn't cheap, which I guess explains how the founder could afford to buy 6-figure cars for his collection.
Griot's marketing magic worked very well on me. I think their catalogues are great. I remember living in my apartment in NYC, then my condo in Westchester looking and saying to myself; "you know, when I get a house one day I'm going to treat myself to the Griot's products." I did. Everything works as advertised. The wheel cleaner, the heavy duty wheel cleaner, the polish, the wax, the clay, & the orbital. Some of their tire shine products I'm not particularly thrilled with. It seems like they've changed a few things over the years (which happens, I understand).
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
I’m not a fancy car wash products type of guy. Whatever Walmart sells (Turtle Wax, Meguiars, etc) does just fine for my leased cars.
The one exception is Ardex Speedy VOC for the tire shine. I’ve found nothing that works better. It’s hard to get though. Either EBay or when I was in the campground there was a guy who distributed for them. I used to get a gallon at his cost.
For the cleaning the rims and tires I used to use Spray Nine but have shifted to Simple Green as it’s much cheaper.
(1) I just got the Porsche back from the dealer. They had to drop an additional $4500 (!!!) to replace the hydraulics for the top. They still owe me a repair for a piece of elastic on the canvas, but the GM of the store is working on it. I’m so happy it’s back though.
(2) The Jetta is in limbo. It’s technically driveable but the rear quarter is a structural component on the GLI (according to the shop) and is compromised, so would not be safe in the event of an accident. All parts on a national back order and no ETA. I’m pursuing channels but I’m basically stuck.
2025 Jetta GLI Autobahn, 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xE
(1) I just got the Porsche back from the dealer. They had to drop an additional $4500 (!!!) to replace the hydraulics for the top. They still owe me a repair for a piece of elastic on the canvas, but the GM of the store is working on it. I’m so happy it’s back though.
(2) The Jetta is in limbo. It’s technically driveable but the rear quarter is a structural component on the GLI (according to the shop) and is compromised, so would not be safe in the event of an accident. All parts on a national back order and no ETA. I’m pursuing channels but I’m basically stuck.
(1) I just got the Porsche back from the dealer. They had to drop an additional $4500 (!!!) to replace the hydraulics for the top. They still owe me a repair for a piece of elastic on the canvas, but the GM of the store is working on it. I’m so happy it’s back though.
(2) The Jetta is in limbo. It’s technically driveable but the rear quarter is a structural component on the GLI (according to the shop) and is compromised, so would not be safe in the event of an accident. All parts on a national back order and no ETA. I’m pursuing channels but I’m basically stuck.
They - key word here. This is all covered under this extended warranty? What company is it through? How much did it cost you? IIRC, this 1 repair means the warranty has paid for itself?
Stinks about your Jetta. The 911 C4S cab is a heckuva nice consolation prize though. Is the plan to NOT drive that during the winter months?
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
Who knew that selling car care products and accessories could be so profitable? I used to keep up with the wash/wax/protectant debates you would find online where those who cared obsessively about such things would talk about "the best!" products to use for whatever purpose. I don't remember many Griot products being mentioned in those discussions; it was usually even more obscure stuff. I did get their catalog once and seem to recall being impressed by the price points they were asking. Stuff wasn't cheap, which I guess explains how the founder could afford to buy 6-figure cars for his collection.
———————————————— Back in the 80’s I saw a guy on a TV talk show who was introduced as a very successful entrepreneur. I didn’t recognize the name but that’s not important.
His claim to success was to see what was selling well in the market, that shouldn’t come as a surprise to anyone. For men that was stuff for cars and for women it was stuff to clean the house along with some women’s clothing apparel. So, he went to established companies and had them package their products with a name he created but had them packaged in eye catching attractive displays. However, his biggest success was to charge a premium price for these products. His reasoning was if his products looked good on the shelves, customers would be willing to pay higher prices for them because they must be worth the higher price and it worked. Supposedly he made a lot of money doing this and retired in his mid 40’s and just enjoyed life with his family.
When asked why he didn’t continue with his money making schemes, his answer was he wasn’t a greedy person and he had more money than he or his family could spend in their lifetimes, so why not enjoy the fruits of his success.
His closing comment that ended his interview was that buyers had to be smart enough to know what they were willing to spend for products. In short, buyer beware and there is a sucker born every minute. For me, this was reinforcement that some things never change.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis Ultimate just like jmonroe's. '18 Legacy Limited with 3.6R (Mrs. j's)
Who knew that selling car care products and accessories could be so profitable? I used to keep up with the wash/wax/protectant debates you would find online where those who cared obsessively about such things would talk about "the best!" products to use for whatever purpose. I don't remember many Griot products being mentioned in those discussions; it was usually even more obscure stuff. I did get their catalog once and seem to recall being impressed by the price points they were asking. Stuff wasn't cheap, which I guess explains how the founder could afford to buy 6-figure cars for his collection.
The companies are selling the sizzle via the advertising. The steak is pretty much the same as the others. Buyers pay for the advertising that makes them feel they're buying a special product?
The dealer who sold it to me agreed to fix it as a we owe. Warranty hasn’t been touched yet.
Re: Daily driving, I might see about picking up an i4/i5 for the winter months and just train runs. I really like the BMW EVs. In fact I have an incredible deal on an i5 m60 loaner but I’m hesitating because I don’t really want to pay for both the Jetta and that.
2025 Jetta GLI Autobahn, 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xE
Who knew that selling car care products and accessories could be so profitable? I used to keep up with the wash/wax/protectant debates you would find online where those who cared obsessively about such things would talk about "the best!" products to use for whatever purpose. I don't remember many Griot products being mentioned in those discussions; it was usually even more obscure stuff. I did get their catalog once and seem to recall being impressed by the price points they were asking. Stuff wasn't cheap, which I guess explains how the founder could afford to buy 6-figure cars for his collection.
The companies are selling the sizzle via the advertising. The steak is pretty much the same as the others. Buyers pay for the advertising that makes them feel they're buying a special product?
———————————————— That’s pretty much what I just said in the post above yours, so it must be true. Why couldn’t I think of things like that?
jmonroe
'15 Genesis Ultimate just like jmonroe's. '18 Legacy Limited with 3.6R (Mrs. j's)
Who knew that selling car care products and accessories could be so profitable? I used to keep up with the wash/wax/protectant debates you would find online where those who cared obsessively about such things would talk about "the best!" products to use for whatever purpose. I don't remember many Griot products being mentioned in those discussions; it was usually even more obscure stuff. I did get their catalog once and seem to recall being impressed by the price points they were asking. Stuff wasn't cheap, which I guess explains how the founder could afford to buy 6-figure cars for his collection.
Griot's marketing magic worked very well on me. I think their catalogues are great. I remember living in my apartment in NYC, then my condo in Westchester looking and saying to myself; "you know, when I get a house one day I'm going to treat myself to the Griot's products." I did. Everything works as advertised. The wheel cleaner, the heavy duty wheel cleaner, the polish, the wax, the clay, & the orbital. Some of their tire shine products I'm not particularly thrilled with. It seems like they've changed a few things over the years (which happens, I understand).
I started using Griot's products when the company began sponsoring BMW CCA events; I especially like their Ceramic product line. The Club Sport after the Griot's Ceramic treatment:
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
Years back I used some of the Meguiar’s products and enjoyed the TV show they had. I understand the company was sold to a larger entity.
3M acquired Meguiars in 2008 but left Barry Meguiar in charge. As far as I know -and based on my experience with some of the later products- the company still makes quality automotive detailing products.
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
(1) I just got the Porsche back from the dealer. They had to drop an additional $4500 (!!!) to replace the hydraulics for the top. They still owe me a repair for a piece of elastic on the canvas, but the GM of the store is working on it. I’m so happy it’s back though.
(2) The Jetta is in limbo. It’s technically driveable but the rear quarter is a structural component on the GLI (according to the shop) and is compromised, so would not be safe in the event of an accident. All parts on a national back order and no ETA. I’m pursuing channels but I’m basically stuck.
I bet that dealer is soooo happy he took that car in on trade.
I know it’s not the dealer’s fault that your car got hit but I find it strange that they would expect you to just take the bus for an indeterminate amount of time waiting for parts.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Years back I used some of the Meguiar’s products and enjoyed the TV show they had. I understand the company was sold to a larger entity.
3M acquired Meguiars in 2008 but left Barry Meguiar in charge. As far as I know -and based on my experience with some of the later products- the company still makes quality automotive detailing products.
I loved his song ‘Eve of Destruction’.😂
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Years back I used some of the Meguiar’s products and enjoyed the TV show they had. I understand the company was sold to a larger entity.
3M acquired Meguiars in 2008 but left Barry Meguiar in charge. As far as I know -and based on my experience with some of the later products- the company still makes quality automotive detailing products.
I loved his song ‘Eve of Destruction’.😂
A1 post here.. Your dues are covered for next year.
Apparently, Dad's Ranger is still having transmission issues following the replacement of the valve body and other parts. He's basically issued a "final warning" and will take it to the dealer one last time before getting rid of it. The kicker--he wants another Ranger, which still has the same transmission.
I encouraged him to strongly look at the Tacoma, as well as considering the Colorado/Canyon.
Years back I used some of the Meguiar’s products and enjoyed the TV show they had. I understand the company was sold to a larger entity.
3M acquired Meguiars in 2008 but left Barry Meguiar in charge. As far as I know -and based on my experience with some of the later products- the company still makes quality automotive detailing products.
I loved his song ‘Eve of Destruction’.😂
A1 post here.. Your dues are covered for next year.
You as well as I are apparently showing our ages.
2024 Toyota Crown Platinum, 2006 Chevy Silverado work truck Wife: 2020 Cadillac XT5 Premium Luxury
I finally came up with a good reason to start wheeling and dealing cars. My right knee hurt today!
When I drive a long time without a break I get a pain in my right knee. Eventually works itself out but I limp around a bit for a while until it gets better. But using cruise control can help so I can move my leg around instead of keeping it bent on the gas pedal. Unfortunately, on the roads I drive longer stretches on regular cruise is pretty much useless since I have to keep hovering over the brake pedal at all times.
so the answer is, get a car with fancy adaptive laser cruise. Hey, I'm old and comfort is important! The wife has creaky knees also so she is sympathetic to that issue. I just won't mention that the RDX has it. Will just point out how she often has issues with Apple CarPlay glitching on her.
Who knew that selling car care products and accessories could be so profitable? I used to keep up with the wash/wax/protectant debates you would find online where those who cared obsessively about such things would talk about "the best!" products to use for whatever purpose. I don't remember many Griot products being mentioned in those discussions; it was usually even more obscure stuff. I did get their catalog once and seem to recall being impressed by the price points they were asking. Stuff wasn't cheap, which I guess explains how the founder could afford to buy 6-figure cars for his collection.
The companies are selling the sizzle via the advertising. The steak is pretty much the same as the others. Buyers pay for the advertising that makes them feel they're buying a special product?
———————————————— That’s pretty much what I just said in the post above yours, so it must be true. Why couldn’t I think of things like that?
Comments
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
If you have used it before, left it outside for extended periods, or run it while low on air, then yeah, probably worth replacing. If you put some 303 protectant on it once every few years, it will last forever even with some use or abuse. Otherwise, It will most likely last the life of the car.
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2015 Subaru Outback 3.6R / 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX Prestige
I put air in it and checked it a couple days later. The pressure reading was the same.
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6
2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6
You walk on catwalks around twenty to thirty feet or so above the floor, on different levels, going up and down stairs. Forty foot high steel presses that were really buildings within the building press steel with many tons of pressure. Overhead conveyors of a size almost beyond belief move across the ceiling above you transporting heavy machinery. Sometimes things are somewhat enclosed, while other times the factory goes on pretty much as far as the eye can see.
Synchronized welding robots make sparks that go up thirty feet or so. Workers ride bikes in the factory, as well as operate a variety of electric vehicles carrying parts. Blue light and infrared for inspection of car bodies looked surreal and science fictional.
Ten thousand workers a day work at the factory in two shifts. It has been expanded many times since it first opened in 1989, and the total cost for the facility is in the billions. They've made about eight million vehicles at that plant since it opened. The workers were working hard, but took pride in their work. A few waved and smiled at us as we did our tour. Maybe around a third of the workers are women. Saw workers installing headliners, working on Boxer engines, assembling all sorts of parts, quality control, etc.
We all wore headphones so that everyone could hear our knowledgeable tour guide above the considerable but not unpleasant sounds of cars being made.
When I was ten someone gave me a book on the Model T and the factory pictures in it interested me. Now half a century later I've finally seen an actual car factory in operation, and it exceeded expectations. My wife thought it was very interesting too. None of the individual pix or videos I've seen quite convey the jaw-dropping size and multilayered complexity of these facilities, with parts being moved up and down many levels by robots.
Pictures are strictly forbidden. But these photos from Subaru, Motor Trend, and other sources give some good glimpses....
Has anyone done the spreadsheet on what it would cost to build their new car if you ordered every part separately piece by piece from the parts department vs. MSRP?
Who throws in a $300k first bid? Hard to believe.
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
I don’t recall the year but it was one of the ‘03-‘04 style.
'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
Agree with you on the 300K opening bid. Probably a shill.
Re: The Cobra R, original was around 01, naturally aspirated 5.4 @ 385 HP.
03/04 Terminator Cobra had a supercharged 4.6 with 390 HP.
05 Ford GT had a supercharged 5.4 with 540 HP.
I would tread very, very carefully with someone claiming to have a 700 HP example.
@Michaell - I’d leave the spare alone. Keep it aired up to spec and drive slowly, avoiding the interstate, if you ever need to use it, since it may not be able to handle the heat that comes with high speeds.
Look at his history. Besides, this car isn’t going to sell anywhere near $300k.
25 NX 450h+ / 24 Sienna Plat AWD / 23 Civic Type-R / 21 Boxster GTS 4.0
This shows 6 Stratos sales in the past 5 years. This is only the second one ever on BaT. Griots thought that it could get lost in the auctions during car week at Monterey, and it might get more eyeballs on BaT. Given they already have sold a seven figure car in the past year on BaT, they decided to try it again. And of course, BaT was keen to get the listing.
25 NX 450h+ / 24 Sienna Plat AWD / 23 Civic Type-R / 21 Boxster GTS 4.0
It is a particular group I’m in. All fully built cars for sale. Seller took a cobra r engine and built it with forged internals, etc.
'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
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
2021 VW Arteon SEL 4-motion, 2018 VW Passat SE w/tech, 2016 Audi Q5 Premium Plus w/tech
(1) How's the Porsche? I thought of you recently when I saw a Benzes & Bowties video where they took in an (I think) '04 911 Turbo Cab with a 6-Speed Stick. Silver with a light grey top (that worked mechanically, but needed to be refinished or replaced) and a light grey interior.
(2) Any updates on the Jetta?
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
"Between the termination of the federal EV tax credit moving up from the end of the year to September 30 and Mercedes's struggling EV sales, the brand is taking more drastic actions than simple price cuts. According to a report by Motor1.com, Mercedes will end production of all four U.S.-market EQ products (excluding the EQB), starting on September 1."
2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6
This is shorter than a 1975 US Civic, which was 150 inches long and 59.3 inches wide.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
I’m not a fancy car wash products type of guy. Whatever Walmart sells (Turtle Wax, Meguiars, etc) does just fine for my leased cars.
The one exception is Ardex Speedy VOC for the tire shine. I’ve found nothing that works better. It’s hard to get though. Either EBay or when I was in the campground there was a guy who distributed for them. I used to get a gallon at his cost.
For the cleaning the rims and tires I used to use Spray Nine but have shifted to Simple Green as it’s much cheaper.
2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic / 2022 Icon I6L Golf Cart
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(1) I just got the Porsche back from the dealer. They had to drop an additional $4500 (!!!) to replace the hydraulics for the top. They still owe me a repair for a piece of elastic on the canvas, but the GM of the store is working on it. I’m so happy it’s back though.
(2) The Jetta is in limbo. It’s technically driveable but the rear quarter is a structural component on the GLI (according to the shop) and is compromised, so would not be safe in the event of an accident. All parts on a national back order and no ETA. I’m pursuing channels but I’m basically stuck.
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2015 Subaru Outback 3.6R / 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX Prestige
2021 VW Arteon SEL 4-motion, 2018 VW Passat SE w/tech, 2016 Audi Q5 Premium Plus w/tech
Stinks about your Jetta. The 911 C4S cab is a heckuva nice consolation prize though. Is the plan to NOT drive that during the winter months?
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
Back in the 80’s I saw a guy on a TV talk show who was introduced as a very successful entrepreneur. I didn’t recognize the name but that’s not important.
His claim to success was to see what was selling well in the market, that shouldn’t come as a surprise to anyone. For men that was stuff for cars and for women it was stuff to clean the house along with some women’s clothing apparel. So, he went to established companies and had them package their products with a name he created but had them packaged in eye catching attractive displays. However, his biggest success was to charge a premium price for these products. His reasoning was if his products looked good on the shelves, customers would be willing to pay higher prices for them because they must be worth the higher price and it worked. Supposedly he made a lot of money doing this and retired in his mid 40’s and just enjoyed life with his family.
When asked why he didn’t continue with his money making schemes, his answer was he wasn’t a greedy person and he had more money than he or his family could spend in their lifetimes, so why not enjoy the fruits of his success.
His closing comment that ended his interview was that buyers had to be smart enough to know what they were willing to spend for products. In short, buyer beware and there is a sucker born every minute. For me, this was reinforcement that some things never change.
jmonroe
'18 Legacy Limited with 3.6R (Mrs. j's)
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
The dealer who sold it to me agreed to fix it as a we owe. Warranty hasn’t been touched yet.
Re: Daily driving, I might see about picking up an i4/i5 for the winter months and just train runs. I really like the BMW EVs. In fact I have an incredible deal on an i5 m60 loaner but I’m hesitating because I don’t really want to pay for both the Jetta and that.
That’s pretty much what I just said in the post above yours, so it must be true. Why couldn’t I think of things like that?
jmonroe
'18 Legacy Limited with 3.6R (Mrs. j's)
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
I know it’s not the dealer’s fault that your car got hit but I find it strange that they would expect you to just take the bus for an indeterminate amount of time waiting for parts.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
The dealer doesn’t care. Neither does VW. Neither does my insurance.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
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Wife: 2020 Cadillac XT5 Premium Luxury
2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
When I drive a long time without a break I get a pain in my right knee. Eventually works itself out but I limp around a bit for a while until it gets better. But using cruise control can help so I can move my leg around instead of keeping it bent on the gas pedal. Unfortunately, on the roads I drive longer stretches on regular cruise is pretty much useless since I have to keep hovering over the brake pedal at all times.
so the answer is, get a car with fancy adaptive laser cruise. Hey, I'm old and comfort is important! The wife has creaky knees also so she is sympathetic to that issue. I just won't mention that the RDX has it. Will just point out how she often has issues with Apple CarPlay glitching on her.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
'24 Chevy Blazer EV 2LT
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,