someone else noted that the Stang did come with a really big sunroof. they just called it a convertible.
I love my moonroof. I open it as often as possible. anywhere between 50-90 is good. sun or clouds. I do like the sun on my head too, as long as it is not angled into my eyes. Middle of the summer? yup.
Hey, I am the oddball that thinks AC should only be used as a last resort, and open windows are natures AC.
@kyfdx@Edmunds said:
The new 2015 Mustang will have a turbo-4 as the base engine... 305 HP
I believe that the V-6 with 300 horses is the base, the Turbo 4 is an upgrade. It supposed to have 5 more HP and 30 lbs more in Torque, that just begs the question of how much extra is the upgrade to the turbo and how much after that is the V-8.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
@stickguy said:
Hey, I am the oddball that thinks AC should only be used as a last resort, and open windows are natures AC.
Someone once asked me if the A/C works on my car, my response was "If you're asking if the top goes down then the answer is yes. About the only time I have had the A/C on is on really hot days when it is raining.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
@stickguy:.... Hey, I am the oddball that thinks AC should only be used as a last resort, and open windows are natures AC.
Hey, stickguy, your philosophy about open windows (and I assume open sunroofs) is quite sound and appropriate. Unfortunately, down here on South Florida, opening windows or sunroofs should only be used as a last resort - like when your air conditioner in your house or car breaks down.
From May through November (and sometimes December, like this year) when temperatures are in the mid 80's to mid 90's with humidity at 75% - 85%, it is impossible to drive a car or sleep at night without air conditioning.
For about 4-8 weeks a year (sometimes a bit longer like 12 weeks), it's delightfully cool at night with low humidity and in the low to mid 70's in the daytime. Those are the times I open all the windows and the sliding glass doors on the terrace as well as drop the windows in the car when driving - but remember, we have the Everglades to the west (about 10-12 miles) and the Atlantic Ocean about 4-8 miles east of us. We are surrounded by water and the resulting high humidities.
So while I agree wholeheartedly with your "nature's AC philosophy", we have to be practical down here in TORRID South Florida.
From May through November (and sometimes December, like this year) when temperatures are in the mid 80's to mid 90's with humidity at 75% - 85%, it is impossible to drive a car or sleep at night without air conditioning.
>
Mid 90s in December?
It's -16 here right this minute..
The humidity down there would do me in though I think. I would like to be able to spend about 2 months down there tho..Jan and Feb oughta do it..
@crkyolfrt said:...Mid 90s in December? It's -16 here right this minute..
Sorry for confusing the issue. Mid 80's most of December this year with high humidities. We are usually in the 70's in December, but it has been warmer than usual. We are in the 90's from May through Late October or early November.
Prior to air conditioning, they used "swamp coolers" (which the still use in the deserts of CA, AZ and NV). Cold water is run through coils and the a fan blows air through the coils - voila, cool air - but adds humidity to the air. Swamp coolers were replaced by air conditioning in the 1940's - 1950's. That's when year round residency here in FL took off.
Air conditioning here in South Florida is a necessity 7 months a year and a convenience another couple of months, when needed, like this past December.
Finally I found this forum again and glad to be back. I am in the Caribbean where it has been raining (and flooding sometimes) since Dec. 8 except Christmas and Boxing day.
Mid 90s in December? It's -16 here right this minute..
Just guessing, but the 90 is probably Fahrenheit and the -16 is probably Celcius which is 3 F.
We are headed to Tampa today wher it is only 60 today but will be 75 tomorrow - leaving Buffalo which will have a high of 5F today. We are ready to go!
@abacomike said:
From May through November (and sometimes December, like this year) when temperatures are in the mid 80's to mid 90's with humidity at 75% - 85%, it is impossible to drive a car or sleep at night without air conditioning.
I will respectfully disagree with you o that. I have driven with the top down in 90+ temps and humidity well above 75% and didn't find it unduly uncomfortable. If you are moving it's really isn't as bad as you might think.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
@driver100 said:
Just guessing, but the 90 is probably Fahrenheit and the -16 is probably Celcius which is 3 F. >
No, the -16 was Feh and a few hours later it got down to -21
I have always maintained that if some area is getting a bit of unseasonal wx or temps, then somewhere else is too, and in this case while it is a bit colder than seasonal the last week or so, here we have abacomike saying that Dec is much warmer than usual for a December. Never fails. And when we have extra warm temps that are a bit out of season, no doubt someone else is having it colder than usual.
The wxman says that all of us (obviously not the far south like FL though) basically have a huge Arctic mass of air pushing down on us. It's over a huge area they say.
@oldfarmer50 asked:
Since the turbo 4 and the 6 have similar hp what would be the reason to pay more for the turbo? Handling? Gas milage?
They have similar HP ratings but there is over 10% more torque in the turbo 4 which would give it better raw performance figures. Add to that the possibility of better gas mileage it might be worth a little extra. But how much more is the turbo and how much more than that is the V-8?
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
@driver100 said:
Just guessing, but the 90 is probably Fahrenheit and the -16 is probably Celcius which is 3 F.
Maybe, but here in the Chicago area I woke up to temps in the negative numbers. Right now it is zero so it is possible that he is experiencing sub zero temps in Fahrenheit.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
@crkyolfrt said:
No, the -16 was Feh and a few hours later it got down to -21
Ah you beat me to it.
My sister who lives in Orlando, FL came up because she misses the cold and the snow (or so she says) well she got both in spades, 14+ inches in snow and sub zero temps.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
In the last 10 days, I've driven (in no particular order)...
-MB CLA, E350 4matic, C300 4matic.
All of these cars are very nice, and I can see why abacomike likes Benzs. For me, there was one thing or another I didn't quite like. For example, the CLA is nice, without a doubt. And, maybe the bargain in the entry level lux sports price range, given I could have bought one for about mid $30s discounted and well equipped.
The E350 is a very nice car. It's a looker, too. For reasons I can't quite put my finger on, I just couldn't love it. Don't know why.
The C300, as you would imagine, sort of splits the difference between the CLA and the E350. It has the same motor as comes in the E350, but is smaller all around, still very nice, though. I knew the new C class was coming out next year. I'd probably be more interested in that, or the AMG CLA, but neither is out, yet.
-BMW 3xx, 4xx, X1....
As you know, came close on the X1 35ix. Matter of fact, the one I was looking at was a 2013, all loaded up. Could have bought it for low $40s, which I thought was a good price. Still, I couldn't get comfortable in it. Seats were leather, but flat bottomed. I kept constantly adjusting them, and the steering wheel to find a good driving position. I test drove extensively....TWICE, and still couldn't find a comfortable spot. Everything else was fine, but if I'm not comfortable, it ruins the entire driving experience for me.
Getting a 3xx or 4xx equipped the way I'd want one put me knocking on $60K, probably mid-$50s after discount. I'm just astounded at how high these cars have risen in just a short while. As others have mentioned, BMW subsidizes their leases. Problem there, I don't lease. The 328i/428i, were just too coarse for me. Perforamnce is "good". I could probably live with the steering (definitely not as good as the Exx previous gens, though. The 6 cyl is still the way to go with a BMW in my estimation. I remember thinking while test driving.."the E350 might not be as fast as the x35 series, but for less money, I liked the Mercedes more.
I did a brief test drive of the Q50 and G37x at the Infiniti store. I know there are some Infiniti fans who lurk about. But, the Q50 is NOT what I thought it should be. It felt....I dunno...like Infiniti took a step backwards with it. Yes, it is good looking. Yes, it's filled with tech. I flat out didn't like driving it.
The G37, on the other hand, is still a viable lux/sports sedan/coupe. And, it's really cheap right now. I could have bought one loaded up, I mean with Nav, Sunroof, leather, wood, illuminated door sills....all the goodies, for well under $40K (thinking $38.5-$39K). Thise same car, just 12-18 months ago would have cost $4K more. I was really, really tempted. Went back twice in the same day to do more test drives.
But, what I ended up with.....(Ta Da) is what I think NYC predicted.....
Another TL SH AWD Advance. Acura has improved them over the last few model years. I kept coming back to how well the car fits me, from the ergonomics, to the seats, to how the steering wheel feels in my hands, to the tech (which always worked the way it should vs what I experienced with the Audi and BMW), tothe absolutely killer stereo. It's not the fastest, but it's quick. The torque vectoring SH AWD is just a joy to drive, almost magical in the way it takes corners (yes, as good as the Audi), to the ride/handling, to how solid it feels, to the topnotch build and materials (yes, equal to the Audi)...just everything. And, the icing on the cake, I got a killer deal on it (under $40K) which allowed me to pocket right around $14K from the check I got from Audi.
Gotta say, the new RLX was tempting, too. I know it's not been the home run most thought it could have been. But, for $10K off MSRP (RLX Tech pack), it's a luxury steal.
Thanks for following my travails and encouraging me.
@imidazol97 said:
Sterlingdog, formerly Richard64, says hello to everyone. He's trying to get his password to work to get back up and running on our new forum here.
Mazel-Tov & Congrats on your new Acura! The TL SH-AWD Advance is a great car, but especially in the high $30K range. When you get around to it, please give us some more details - PLEASE! Is it a 2013 or 2014? What color combination did you get? Was there some huge incentive that helped you get the price that low? Also make sure you register your "punch" on CCBA:)
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2023 Toyota Tacoma SR 4WD, 2025 Toyota Camry SE AWD
@graphicguy said: ...Another TL SH AWD Advance. Acura has improved them over the last few model years.
Congrats on the new TL. The most important variable to consider when getting a new car is, "...is this the car I want to drive, day in, day out, for the next few years!" It would appear that is exactly what you thought was most important. You did not buy this car on impulse, but rather by checking out many, many contenders and used a methodology that was sound and objective!
Sure wish I had those attributes - I wouldn't be a chronic car buyer if I did, that's for sure!
@imidazol97 said:
Sterlingdog, formerly Richard64, says hello to everyone. He's trying to get his password to work to get back up and running on our new forum here.
Now if you can keep the new Acura away from converging concrete walls, you'll have it made.
You should have made a point of telling the SM you had $14k left on your way out the door. It's always fun seeing those guys bite their pencil in half.
@graphicguy said:
Cool...tell him we've missed him.
So, the car buying is done. Quite the marathon.
In the last 10 days, I've driven (in no particular order)...
Congrats GG. Great choice. Now you will have to figure out what to do with all your free time now that the Audi service dept. is not on your schedule. Be sure to drive by there are give them a parting wave!
@graphicguy said:
But, what I ended up with.....(Ta Da) is what I think NYC predicted.....
Another TL SH AWD Advance.
Congrats on your new wheels. I’m sure you’re going to like it.
FWIW, when I was trying to talk myself into getting a new car that I didn’t need, I was seriously considering what you just got along with the CTS that I know you were definitely not considering. While Motor Trend fell in love with the CTS, like you, it did not have anything good to say about the Q50. Too bad, because it does have some good looks but you can’t drive the looks.
Let us know how it’s doing after more driving and how it compares to your old TL.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
mako.....I was thinking the same exact thing driving home from the dealership.
Thanks all for the congrats.
I had the check from Audi. So, the Acura dealership had to issue me a new check for the difference. Their Finance office had to call their corporate HQ to clear the check to me. Not sure why that was.
The deal..../TL SHAWD Advance, which has ALL the goodies, blind spot monitoring, 19" WHEELS/TIRES, heated/cooled seats, surround sound stereo, etc. MSRP-$46,400. Paid $39,500.
Invoince was $43,797. Dealer gave me all their "trunk money". I had some "dealer cash" (which you get from buying multiple cars from them, as well as service done).
Best I can figure, they may have sold the car a little under true net cost, but moved another unit for end of year.
@mako1a said:
Now if you can keep the new Acura away from converging concrete walls, you'll have it made.
You should have made a point of telling the SM you had $14k left on your way out the door. It's always fun seeing those guys bite their pencil in half.
when I was at the Acura dealer last week, they had a CPO 2013 on the floor. I think it was a base (FWD) car. White over black. Was nice and good seats. But yours certainly has way more goodies on it.
oh, someone asked about sun/moon roof distinction.
the way I understand it (and frankly, I am the only one that matters, right?) is that sun roofs are solid panels, and moonroofs are glass. I just have no idea why.
@stickguy said:
oh, someone asked about sun/moon roof distinction.
the way I understand it (and frankly, I am the only one that matters, right?) is that sun roofs are solid panels, and moonroofs are glass. I just have no idea why.
Aren't the majority all glass now with heat shields inside? I thought it was a marketing thing that sorta coincided timing-wise, when skin cancer started to become more prevalent and the fear of melanoma started to spread. It's sorta like when Sugar Pops, became Corn Pops overnight...Exact same product, but they didn't want to have that dirty word 'sugar' in its name.
I will say though that if I must be saddled with hole in a perfectly good roof, I'd prefer it to be metal instead of tempered glass that raises insurance premiums and worse..will sometimes just pop without provocation..
edit..I meant to say tho..your description does make sense.
@stickguy said:
Good job graphicguy. What color is it?
when I was at the Acura dealer last week, they had a CPO 2013 on the floor. I think it was a base (FWD) car. White over black. Was nice and good seats. But yours certainly has way more goodies on it.
Thanks Stick....Crystal Black Pearl (basically metallic black) over Black. Pretty now, while it's clean. But, I know it's going to be a chanllenge to keep clean.
@stickguy...the way I understand it (and frankly, I am the only one that matters, right?) is that sun roofs are solid panels, and moonroofs are glass. I just have no idea why.
Yes, stickguy, originally sunroofs were metal panels on the roof of a car that could be retracted back to allow fresh air and, of course sun, into the car. Moon roofs originally did not retract, but were tempered glass panels above the front seats that merely allowed moonlight and sunlight in through the glass.
Then some manufacturers got the bright idea to do away with the metal retractable roofs and replace it with a retractable tempered glass roof in a sturdy frame with a protective interior panel to protect the front passengers from bothersome light and heat when the roof is closed.
So now, there are no metallic sun roofs, only glass sunroofs. Now, they have panorama sunroofs that extend now to cover most of the roof of a car on tempered glass.
My first sunroof in a car was on my 1974 Volvo GL 4 door sedan - it was made of metal and was manually retracted by rotating a pulley. Then, they started making them retractable by electric motor.
So , in conclusion, moon roofs were replaced by glass sunroofs so the car buyer could experience the best of both worlds - a retractable moonroof became what is now known as the "sunroof"!
And both are quite willing to suck your cash (that had quickly just been left on the passenger seat) right out the opening shortly after leaving the drive-thru...ask me how I know
@oldfarmer50 said:
What's the difference between a sun roof and a moon roof?
I would say a sunroof is made out of metal or other solid material, so light does not enter through it.
Personally, I really enjoy having a moon roof to let the light in, or crack it open at the back. I rarely open it by sliding it all the way back.
My wife likes driving with the moon roof all the way open.
2024 Ford F-150 STX, 2023 Ford Explorer ST, 91 Mustang GT vert
But, what I ended up with.....(Ta Da) is what I think NYC predicted.....
Another TL SH AWD Advance.
I don't know if NYC predicted you getting a TL but I did. From the way you talked about your previous Acura I knew what you would get. Even told you to just go buy it and you'd be happy.
For my next trick.....
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
@graphicguy said:
Cool...tell him we've missed him.
So, the car buying is done. Quite the marathon.
In the last 10 days, I've driven (in no particular order)...
-MB CLA, E350 4matic, C300 4matic.
All of these cars are very nice, and I can see why abacomike likes Benzs. For me, there was one thing or another I didn't quite like. For example, the CLA is nice, without a doubt. And, maybe the bargain in the entry level lux sports price range, given I could have bought one for about mid $30s discounted and well equipped.
The E350 is a very nice car. It's a looker, too. For reasons I can't quite put my finger on, I just couldn't love it. Don't know why.
The C300, as you would imagine, sort of splits the difference between the CLA and the E350. It has the same motor as comes in the E350, but is smaller all around, still very nice, though. I knew the new C class was coming out next year. I'd probably be more interested in that, or the AMG CLA, but neither is out, yet.
-BMW 3xx, 4xx, X1....
As you know, came close on the X1 35ix. Matter of fact, the one I was looking at was a 2013, all loaded up. Could have bought it for low $40s, which I thought was a good price. Still, I couldn't get comfortable in it. Seats were leather, but flat bottomed. I kept constantly adjusting them, and the steering wheel to find a good driving position. I test drove extensively....TWICE, and still couldn't find a comfortable spot. Everything else was fine, but if I'm not comfortable, it ruins the entire driving experience for me.
Getting a 3xx or 4xx equipped the way I'd want one put me knocking on $60K, probably mid-$50s after discount. I'm just astounded at how high these cars have risen in just a short while. As others have mentioned, BMW subsidizes their leases. Problem there, I don't lease. The 328i/428i, were just too coarse for me. Perforamnce is "good". I could probably live with the steering (definitely not as good as the Exx previous gens, though. The 6 cyl is still the way to go with a BMW in my estimation. I remember thinking while test driving.."the E350 might not be as fast as the x35 series, but for less money, I liked the Mercedes more.
I did a brief test drive of the Q50 and G37x at the Infiniti store. I know there are some Infiniti fans who lurk about. But, the Q50 is NOT what I thought it should be. It felt....I dunno...like Infiniti took a step backwards with it. Yes, it is good looking. Yes, it's filled with tech. I flat out didn't like driving it.
The G37, on the other hand, is still a viable lux/sports sedan/coupe. And, it's really cheap right now. I could have bought one loaded up, I mean with Nav, Sunroof, leather, wood, illuminated door sills....all the goodies, for well under $40K (thinking $38.5-$39K). Thise same car, just 12-18 months ago would have cost $4K more. I was really, really tempted. Went back twice in the same day to do more test drives.
But, what I ended up with.....(Ta Da) is what I think NYC predicted.....
Another TL SH AWD Advance. Acura has improved them over the last few model years. I kept coming back to how well the car fits me, from the ergonomics, to the seats, to how the steering wheel feels in my hands, to the tech (which always worked the way it should vs what I experienced with the Audi and BMW), tothe absolutely killer stereo. It's not the fastest, but it's quick. The torque vectoring SH AWD is just a joy to drive, almost magical in the way it takes corners (yes, as good as the Audi), to the ride/handling, to how solid it feels, to the topnotch build and materials (yes, equal to the Audi)...just everything. And, the icing on the cake, I got a killer deal on it (under $40K) which allowed me to pocket right around $14K from the check I got from Audi.
Gotta say, the new RLX was tempting, too. I know it's not been the home run most thought it could have been. But, for $10K off MSRP (RLX Tech pack), it's a luxury steal.
Thanks for following my travails and encouraging me.
I wish I had put my money on you buying another TL instead of wasting it on the college football bowl playoff pool.
2024 Ford F-150 STX, 2023 Ford Explorer ST, 91 Mustang GT vert
A few weeks ago, I was going to seriously take a look at a 2006 Explorer to replace my 2002.
The Holidays and the weather have conspired against me, so I never did.
One thing I like is having a vehicle that can tow. The 2006 didn't have a trailer tow package, although it did have the small receiver.
My '02 is rated for 6300/6400, and I have borrowed a few open trailers, but I can't rent a trailer from Uhaul.
Last time we needed something enclosed, we rented a van, which was pretty expensive.
The current generation of Explorers are approved for Uhual trailers, so that appeals to me.
The dealer I bought my Fusion from has an Explorer that could work for me.
In the next month or so, when I bring the Fusion in for the next service interval, I'm going to take a look at it.
The Fusion is a great car, but I can't forget that my 2011 Explorer got me through some of the worst weather I have driven in, without using any of the driver aids(winter mode, etc...).
The Explorer doesn't have a moon roof, but I like the look of the 20 inch wheels it has.
To sum up, compared to my 2011, which I traded in for the Fusion, it lacks dual pane moon roof, but has towing package, Nav, and 20 inch wheel package.
Time will tell.
2024 Ford F-150 STX, 2023 Ford Explorer ST, 91 Mustang GT vert
I know you are a Ford guy, so my suggestion might be sac-religious. Have you considered a 2010 Chevrolet Tahoe LTZ? My Dad is on his 2nd (1st was a 2010 & his current is a 2011). It is a very handsome, manly looking truck, has gorgeous 20" polished aluminum wheels, sunroof, navigation. It drives great on the highway. The ride is very composed. For towing, you cannot beat a V8 and a ladder box frame. It's 4WD system is top notch. In over 40,000 miles it has only been back to dealer once for a warranty repair.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2023 Toyota Tacoma SR 4WD, 2025 Toyota Camry SE AWD
@crkyolfrt said:
The wxman says that all of us (obviously not the far south like FL though) basically have a huge Arctic mass of air pushing down on us
Down here they like to say that cold mass of air came from Canada.......in Canada we blame it on the Artic.
btw....landed in Tampa and people we complaining about it being 48F. I don't care, Buffalo was 0 F (zero).
Today will be 70F. It is so nice to see green trees and grass. All I saw for 3 weeks back home was snow and freezing cold temp. Ever try to fill your gas tank when the temperature is 0 F?
Your hands go numb...and you have to take off your gloves to slide your credit card into the slot. Some stations have faster card readers than others...makes a difference when gangrene starts to set in.
Right now it is zero so it is possible that he is experiencing sub zero temps in Fahrenheit.
-16 fahrenhiet is really cold...he must be further north in Ontario than I am. If he is in North Bay we used to say they have to use anti-freeze all year long. These days we use it all year long any way.
It is so nice not to brush off snow and drive on ice down here in Florida. Just have to worry about Pythons, alligators and sink holes.
Comments
That was a special paint color, pewter I believe it was called. Note the sunroof. Brings back memories. Handled great.
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
The new 2015 Mustang will have a turbo-4 as the base engine... 305 HP
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the 3.7l V6 is still the base engine. The ecoboost will have more power and be an extra cost upgrade (if you look at it that way).
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
someone else noted that the Stang did come with a really big sunroof. they just called it a convertible.
I love my moonroof. I open it as often as possible. anywhere between 50-90 is good. sun or clouds. I do like the sun on my head too, as long as it is not angled into my eyes. Middle of the summer? yup.
Hey, I am the oddball that thinks AC should only be used as a last resort, and open windows are natures AC.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
I believe that the V-6 with 300 horses is the base, the Turbo 4 is an upgrade. It supposed to have 5 more HP and 30 lbs more in Torque, that just begs the question of how much extra is the upgrade to the turbo and how much after that is the V-8.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
I'd pay extra NOT to have a hole in the roof...
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
Someone once asked me if the A/C works on my car, my response was "If you're asking if the top goes down then the answer is yes. About the only time I have had the A/C on is on really hot days when it is raining.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
Hey, I am the oddball that thinks AC should only be used as a last resort, and open windows are natures AC.
Hey, stickguy, your philosophy about open windows (and I assume open sunroofs) is quite sound and appropriate. Unfortunately, down here on South Florida, opening windows or sunroofs should only be used as a last resort - like when your air conditioner in your house or car breaks down.
From May through November (and sometimes December, like this year) when temperatures are in the mid 80's to mid 90's with humidity at 75% - 85%, it is impossible to drive a car or sleep at night without air conditioning.
For about 4-8 weeks a year (sometimes a bit longer like 12 weeks), it's delightfully cool at night with low humidity and in the low to mid 70's in the daytime. Those are the times I open all the windows and the sliding glass doors on the terrace as well as drop the windows in the car when driving - but remember, we have the Everglades to the west (about 10-12 miles) and the Atlantic Ocean about 4-8 miles east of us. We are surrounded by water and the resulting high humidities.
So while I agree wholeheartedly with your "nature's AC philosophy", we have to be practical down here in TORRID South Florida.
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
Same here..I can honestly say I detest the dang things. Without A/C I'd be dead already...probably still smouldering..
>
Mid 90s in December?
It's -16 here right this minute..
The humidity down there would do me in though I think. I would like to be able to spend about 2 months down there tho..Jan and Feb oughta do it..
What's the difference between a sun roof and a moon roof?
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Since the turbo 4 and the 6 have similar hp what would be the reason to pay more for the turbo? Handling? Gas milage?
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Sorry for confusing the issue. Mid 80's most of December this year with high humidities. We are usually in the 70's in December, but it has been warmer than usual. We are in the 90's from May through Late October or early November.
Prior to air conditioning, they used "swamp coolers" (which the still use in the deserts of CA, AZ and NV). Cold water is run through coils and the a fan blows air through the coils - voila, cool air - but adds humidity to the air. Swamp coolers were replaced by air conditioning in the 1940's - 1950's. That's when year round residency here in FL took off.
Air conditioning here in South Florida is a necessity 7 months a year and a convenience another couple of months, when needed, like this past December.
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
Seasons' Greetings to all.
Finally I found this forum again and glad to be back. I am in the Caribbean where it has been raining (and flooding sometimes) since Dec. 8 except Christmas and Boxing day.
A happy New Year to all
Time of day?
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
Mid 90s in December?
It's -16 here right this minute..
Just guessing, but the 90 is probably Fahrenheit and the -16 is probably Celcius which is 3 F.
We are headed to Tampa today wher it is only 60 today but will be 75 tomorrow - leaving Buffalo which will have a high of 5F today. We are ready to go!
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Marketing..and of course, jmonroe's time of day idea lol
I will respectfully disagree with you o that. I have driven with the top down in 90+ temps and humidity well above 75% and didn't find it unduly uncomfortable. If you are moving it's really isn't as bad as you might think.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
No, the -16 was Feh and a few hours later it got down to -21
I have always maintained that if some area is getting a bit of unseasonal wx or temps, then somewhere else is too, and in this case while it is a bit colder than seasonal the last week or so, here we have abacomike saying that Dec is much warmer than usual for a December. Never fails. And when we have extra warm temps that are a bit out of season, no doubt someone else is having it colder than usual.
The wxman says that all of us (obviously not the far south like FL though) basically have a huge Arctic mass of air pushing down on us. It's over a huge area they say.
They have similar HP ratings but there is over 10% more torque in the turbo 4 which would give it better raw performance figures. Add to that the possibility of better gas mileage it might be worth a little extra. But how much more is the turbo and how much more than that is the V-8?
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
My sister lives in Colorado on the front range, they have a swamp cooler. They seem to like it and it seems to work well for the area.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
Maybe, but here in the Chicago area I woke up to temps in the negative numbers. Right now it is zero so it is possible that he is experiencing sub zero temps in Fahrenheit.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
Ah you beat me to it.
My sister who lives in Orlando, FL came up because she misses the cold and the snow (or so she says) well she got both in spades, 14+ inches in snow and sub zero temps.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
Sterlingdog, formerly Richard64, says hello to everyone. He's trying to get his password to work to get back up and running on our new forum here.
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
Cool...tell him we've missed him.
So, the car buying is done. Quite the marathon.
In the last 10 days, I've driven (in no particular order)...
-MB CLA, E350 4matic, C300 4matic.
All of these cars are very nice, and I can see why abacomike likes Benzs. For me, there was one thing or another I didn't quite like. For example, the CLA is nice, without a doubt. And, maybe the bargain in the entry level lux sports price range, given I could have bought one for about mid $30s discounted and well equipped.
The E350 is a very nice car. It's a looker, too. For reasons I can't quite put my finger on, I just couldn't love it. Don't know why.
The C300, as you would imagine, sort of splits the difference between the CLA and the E350. It has the same motor as comes in the E350, but is smaller all around, still very nice, though. I knew the new C class was coming out next year. I'd probably be more interested in that, or the AMG CLA, but neither is out, yet.
-BMW 3xx, 4xx, X1....
As you know, came close on the X1 35ix. Matter of fact, the one I was looking at was a 2013, all loaded up. Could have bought it for low $40s, which I thought was a good price. Still, I couldn't get comfortable in it. Seats were leather, but flat bottomed. I kept constantly adjusting them, and the steering wheel to find a good driving position. I test drove extensively....TWICE, and still couldn't find a comfortable spot. Everything else was fine, but if I'm not comfortable, it ruins the entire driving experience for me.
Getting a 3xx or 4xx equipped the way I'd want one put me knocking on $60K, probably mid-$50s after discount. I'm just astounded at how high these cars have risen in just a short while. As others have mentioned, BMW subsidizes their leases. Problem there, I don't lease. The 328i/428i, were just too coarse for me. Perforamnce is "good". I could probably live with the steering (definitely not as good as the Exx previous gens, though. The 6 cyl is still the way to go with a BMW in my estimation. I remember thinking while test driving.."the E350 might not be as fast as the x35 series, but for less money, I liked the Mercedes more.
I did a brief test drive of the Q50 and G37x at the Infiniti store. I know there are some Infiniti fans who lurk about. But, the Q50 is NOT what I thought it should be. It felt....I dunno...like Infiniti took a step backwards with it. Yes, it is good looking. Yes, it's filled with tech. I flat out didn't like driving it.
The G37, on the other hand, is still a viable lux/sports sedan/coupe. And, it's really cheap right now. I could have bought one loaded up, I mean with Nav, Sunroof, leather, wood, illuminated door sills....all the goodies, for well under $40K (thinking $38.5-$39K). Thise same car, just 12-18 months ago would have cost $4K more. I was really, really tempted. Went back twice in the same day to do more test drives.
But, what I ended up with.....(Ta Da) is what I think NYC predicted.....
Another TL SH AWD Advance. Acura has improved them over the last few model years. I kept coming back to how well the car fits me, from the ergonomics, to the seats, to how the steering wheel feels in my hands, to the tech (which always worked the way it should vs what I experienced with the Audi and BMW), tothe absolutely killer stereo. It's not the fastest, but it's quick. The torque vectoring SH AWD is just a joy to drive, almost magical in the way it takes corners (yes, as good as the Audi), to the ride/handling, to how solid it feels, to the topnotch build and materials (yes, equal to the Audi)...just everything. And, the icing on the cake, I got a killer deal on it (under $40K) which allowed me to pocket right around $14K from the check I got from Audi.
Gotta say, the new RLX was tempting, too. I know it's not been the home run most thought it could have been. But, for $10K off MSRP (RLX Tech pack), it's a luxury steal.
Thanks for following my travails and encouraging me.
@graphicguy
Mazel-Tov & Congrats on your new Acura! The TL SH-AWD Advance is a great car, but especially in the high $30K range. When you get around to it, please give us some more details - PLEASE! Is it a 2013 or 2014? What color combination did you get? Was there some huge incentive that helped you get the price that low? Also make sure you register your "punch" on CCBA:)
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2023 Toyota Tacoma SR 4WD, 2025 Toyota Camry SE AWD
Tell him it's the same as always. When your dues are paid up, you can post.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
Congrats on the new TL. The most important variable to consider when getting a new car is, "...is this the car I want to drive, day in, day out, for the next few years!" It would appear that is exactly what you thought was most important. You did not buy this car on impulse, but rather by checking out many, many contenders and used a methodology that was sound and objective!
Sure wish I had those attributes - I wouldn't be a chronic car buyer if I did, that's for sure!
Just have great fun and enjoy it!
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
Translation...when he is able to make bail.
2013 LX 570 2016 LS 460
My A/C in my Mercury died in July this year. It was in the shop the next day! I'm not driving anything without it.
The minute my house gets over 74 my air gets turned on. I'm a wuss.
Today is another story, shoveling snow this morning it was 17.
2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic
@graphicguy Congratulations!
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
Now if you can keep the new Acura away from converging concrete walls, you'll have it made.
You should have made a point of telling the SM you had $14k left on your way out the door. It's always fun seeing those guys bite their pencil in half.
2013 Mustang GT, 2001 GMC Yukon Denali
Congrats GG. Great choice. Now you will have to figure out what to do with all your free time now that the Audi service dept. is not on your schedule. Be sure to drive by there are give them a parting wave!
2013 LX 570 2016 LS 460
Another TL SH AWD Advance.
Congrats on your new wheels. I’m sure you’re going to like it.
FWIW, when I was trying to talk myself into getting a new car that I didn’t need, I was seriously considering what you just got along with the CTS that I know you were definitely not considering. While Motor Trend fell in love with the CTS, like you, it did not have anything good to say about the Q50. Too bad, because it does have some good looks but you can’t drive the looks.
Let us know how it’s doing after more driving and how it compares to your old TL.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
mako.....I was thinking the same exact thing driving home from the dealership.
Thanks all for the congrats.
I had the check from Audi. So, the Acura dealership had to issue me a new check for the difference. Their Finance office had to call their corporate HQ to clear the check to me. Not sure why that was.
The deal..../TL SHAWD Advance, which has ALL the goodies, blind spot monitoring, 19" WHEELS/TIRES, heated/cooled seats, surround sound stereo, etc. MSRP-$46,400. Paid $39,500.
Invoince was $43,797. Dealer gave me all their "trunk money". I had some "dealer cash" (which you get from buying multiple cars from them, as well as service done).
Best I can figure, they may have sold the car a little under true net cost, but moved another unit for end of year.
Good job graphicguy. What color is it?
when I was at the Acura dealer last week, they had a CPO 2013 on the floor. I think it was a base (FWD) car. White over black. Was nice and good seats. But yours certainly has way more goodies on it.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
oh, someone asked about sun/moon roof distinction.
the way I understand it (and frankly, I am the only one that matters, right?) is that sun roofs are solid panels, and moonroofs are glass. I just have no idea why.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
Aren't the majority all glass now with heat shields inside? I thought it was a marketing thing that sorta coincided timing-wise, when skin cancer started to become more prevalent and the fear of melanoma started to spread. It's sorta like when Sugar Pops, became Corn Pops overnight...Exact same product, but they didn't want to have that dirty word 'sugar' in its name.
I will say though that if I must be saddled with hole in a perfectly good roof, I'd prefer it to be metal instead of tempered glass that raises insurance premiums and worse..will sometimes just pop without provocation..
edit..I meant to say tho..your description does make sense.
Thanks Stick....Crystal Black Pearl (basically metallic black) over Black. Pretty now, while it's clean. But, I know it's going to be a chanllenge to keep clean.
Congrats GG. Always liked the TL. Looking forward to seeing what the TLX brings to the table...
25 NX 450h+ / 24 Sienna Plat AWD / 23 Civic Type-R / 21 Boxster GTS 4.0 / 03 Montero Ltd
Yes, stickguy, originally sunroofs were metal panels on the roof of a car that could be retracted back to allow fresh air and, of course sun, into the car. Moon roofs originally did not retract, but were tempered glass panels above the front seats that merely allowed moonlight and sunlight in through the glass.
Then some manufacturers got the bright idea to do away with the metal retractable roofs and replace it with a retractable tempered glass roof in a sturdy frame with a protective interior panel to protect the front passengers from bothersome light and heat when the roof is closed.
So now, there are no metallic sun roofs, only glass sunroofs. Now, they have panorama sunroofs that extend now to cover most of the roof of a car on tempered glass.
My first sunroof in a car was on my 1974 Volvo GL 4 door sedan - it was made of metal and was manually retracted by rotating a pulley. Then, they started making them retractable by electric motor.
So , in conclusion, moon roofs were replaced by glass sunroofs so the car buyer could experience the best of both worlds - a retractable moonroof became what is now known as the "sunroof"!
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
And both are quite willing to suck your cash (that had quickly just been left on the passenger seat) right out the opening shortly after leaving the drive-thru...ask me how I know
I would say a sunroof is made out of metal or other solid material, so light does not enter through it.
Personally, I really enjoy having a moon roof to let the light in, or crack it open at the back. I rarely open it by sliding it all the way back.
My wife likes driving with the moon roof all the way open.
I don't know if NYC predicted you getting a TL but I did. From the way you talked about your previous Acura I knew what you would get. Even told you to just go buy it and you'd be happy.
For my next trick.....
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
I wish I had put my money on you buying another TL instead of wasting it on the college football bowl playoff pool.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2023 Toyota Tacoma SR 4WD, 2025 Toyota Camry SE AWD
A few weeks ago, I was going to seriously take a look at a 2006 Explorer to replace my 2002.
The Holidays and the weather have conspired against me, so I never did.
One thing I like is having a vehicle that can tow. The 2006 didn't have a trailer tow package, although it did have the small receiver.
My '02 is rated for 6300/6400, and I have borrowed a few open trailers, but I can't rent a trailer from Uhaul.
Last time we needed something enclosed, we rented a van, which was pretty expensive.
The current generation of Explorers are approved for Uhual trailers, so that appeals to me.
The dealer I bought my Fusion from has an Explorer that could work for me.
In the next month or so, when I bring the Fusion in for the next service interval, I'm going to take a look at it.
The Fusion is a great car, but I can't forget that my 2011 Explorer got me through some of the worst weather I have driven in, without using any of the driver aids(winter mode, etc...).
The Explorer doesn't have a moon roof, but I like the look of the 20 inch wheels it has.
To sum up, compared to my 2011, which I traded in for the Fusion, it lacks dual pane moon roof, but has towing package, Nav, and 20 inch wheel package.
Time will tell.
@explorerx4
I know you are a Ford guy, so my suggestion might be sac-religious. Have you considered a 2010 Chevrolet Tahoe LTZ? My Dad is on his 2nd (1st was a 2010 & his current is a 2011). It is a very handsome, manly looking truck, has gorgeous 20" polished aluminum wheels, sunroof, navigation. It drives great on the highway. The ride is very composed. For towing, you cannot beat a V8 and a ladder box frame. It's 4WD system is top notch. In over 40,000 miles it has only been back to dealer once for a warranty repair.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2023 Toyota Tacoma SR 4WD, 2025 Toyota Camry SE AWD
Down here they like to say that cold mass of air came from Canada.......in Canada we blame it on the Artic.
btw....landed in Tampa and people we complaining about it being 48F. I don't care, Buffalo was 0 F (zero).
Today will be 70F. It is so nice to see green trees and grass. All I saw for 3 weeks back home was snow and freezing cold temp. Ever try to fill your gas tank when the temperature is 0 F?
Your hands go numb...and you have to take off your gloves to slide your credit card into the slot. Some stations have faster card readers than others...makes a difference when gangrene starts to set in.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Right now it is zero so it is possible that he is experiencing sub zero temps in Fahrenheit.
-16 fahrenhiet is really cold...he must be further north in Ontario than I am. If he is in North Bay we used to say they have to use anti-freeze all year long. These days we use it all year long any way.
It is so nice not to brush off snow and drive on ice down here in Florida. Just have to worry about Pythons, alligators and sink holes.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250