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General Category => Discontempt => Topic started by: Zoomie on August 30, 2009, 08:23:12 PM

Title: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Zoomie on August 30, 2009, 08:23:12 PM
Who here owns/drives/wants a VW?
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: underclass on August 30, 2009, 08:30:07 PM
no/no/no

note that I have no real interest in cars and have never owned one
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Emperor Reagan on August 30, 2009, 08:32:15 PM
no/no/no

The only vehicle I want is a Honda motorcycle.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: mosh on August 30, 2009, 08:38:59 PM
yes/YES/YES!!!!


oH wait... that's not right...
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Zoomie on August 30, 2009, 08:51:00 PM
Please take this seriously.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: underclass on August 30, 2009, 08:56:29 PM
Who here owns/drives/wants an immigrant child to call their own?

yes/YES/YES!!!!
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: mosh on August 30, 2009, 09:23:24 PM
Please take this seriously.

Do I have to??? sheesh, alright.

Happy Holden owner. I recommend a Pontiac G8, same car, different badge. Does that answer your question?
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: LauraMay on August 30, 2009, 09:27:59 PM
no/no/yes.

But only one that looks like this:

(http://static.squidoo.com/resize/squidoo_images/-1/draft_lens1305536module12562426photo_12264455291964-vw-bus.jpg)

Seriously.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: tricky on August 30, 2009, 09:31:26 PM
I don't own a car and would be happy to never own one ever again.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: satori on August 30, 2009, 09:31:44 PM
i'd drive the fuck out of that bus.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: mosh on August 30, 2009, 09:33:54 PM
Looks like youre a little late on that score
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Doormouse on August 30, 2009, 09:42:39 PM
When I was growing up my parents had a VW Karmann Ghia. A fine-looking vehicle. If I could choose a free car I'd go for one of those.

So: no/no/sure
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Zoomie on August 30, 2009, 09:44:15 PM
OK You've shot my theory full of holes.

Carry on.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: mosh on August 30, 2009, 09:46:09 PM
What was your theory?
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Zoomie on August 30, 2009, 09:50:07 PM
Never you mind, Peter Pontiac...
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: taiko on August 31, 2009, 01:01:25 AM
yes/yes/not really
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Zoomie on August 31, 2009, 06:52:56 AM
Wait... this changes everything. People, please answer if you haven't.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Lucky on August 31, 2009, 08:10:45 AM
yes/yes/no
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: ttfg on August 31, 2009, 09:05:09 AM
Who here owns/drives/wants a VW?

Yes, yes, not all of them.

Golf GTI , striped down for weight and fully mod'd. The small hatchbacks are the only ones I would buy. (com veh excluded)
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: hip on August 31, 2009, 11:03:46 AM
no/no/no

my brother had a lemon of a passat and my ex boyfriend once had a lemon rabbit. for a pricier vehicle, (meaning pricier than my awesome little mazda), i'd much sooner buy an acura, or step up to a beamer.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Emperor Reagan on August 31, 2009, 11:18:53 AM
for a pricier vehicle, (meaning pricier than my awesome little mazda), i'd much sooner buy an acura, or step up to a beamer.

That's my problem with VW.  It's paying a premium for a nameplate without any added utility, reliability, features, cheaper repairs, etc. over similar vehicles. 

Same reason I'll never buy a Mac.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: ttfg on August 31, 2009, 11:40:38 AM
VW has better customer service when problems do happen. And I dont see VW having any more reliability issue than BMW or anybody else. Most reliability issue I have seen from VW owners (car owners in general imo) is due to poor owner maintaince.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Emperor Reagan on August 31, 2009, 01:19:44 PM
VW tends to score around average in reliability surveys in the US.  It's not on par with Japanese brands.  That's why I mentioned reliability.  Luxury European manufacturers generally score lower on reliability than VW, probably due to cramming relatively untested high-end technology into the cars as well as over-tolerancing things.

Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Nitya on August 31, 2009, 01:51:16 PM
no, no, no.



but it's 7 months before I can drive anyway...
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: hip on August 31, 2009, 02:10:21 PM
wow! you really are a feisty little babe in these wolf-laden woods. good on ya.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: (_)_)===D on August 31, 2009, 03:49:18 PM
for a pricier vehicle, (meaning pricier than my awesome little mazda), i'd much sooner buy an acura, or step up to a beamer.

That's my problem with VW.  It's paying a premium for a nameplate without any added utility, reliability, features, cheaper repairs, etc. over similar vehicles. 

Same reason I'll never buy a Mac.

And yet Mac users and VW drivers are the same people. For some people, image is everything.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: ttfg on August 31, 2009, 03:54:01 PM
iyo how is buying a VW about image ?
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: OriginalRessotaspiksMan on August 31, 2009, 04:16:48 PM
They're extremely good cars, but not my type of thing.

To me, VW means obsessive compulsive types, obsessed with reliability and not into exuberance of any sort.I'd want an accountant to drive a VW.
Exceptions are the Beetle, which is a girl's car.
And that sporty one, which I cant remember.
Golf is a good car, but not my thing.

The bulk of the VW range is bought by people who read WhatCar and express little individuality eg Passat, Phaeton,Polo etc
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: (_)_)===D on August 31, 2009, 04:38:29 PM
iyo how is buying a VW about image ?

It's all about "design" (ie: image) to artsy fartsy designer types. For example, the legions of working web designers and illustrators all use Macs and drive VW because they look snazzy. Perhaps they don't to you, but believe me, to a web designer a VW is a piece of art that must be owned.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Helga on August 31, 2009, 04:40:40 PM
no/no/only if its pink
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Emperor Reagan on August 31, 2009, 04:41:26 PM
Image plays heavily into car purchases in general.  There's no reason to buy a Mercedes instead of a Hyndai, for example.  You get the same utility but far lower cost of ownership with a Hyndai as compared to a Mercedes, yet some people still are willing to spend over $30,000 up front for a new car.  The image of prosperity is worth tens of thousands of dollars more.

VW has successfully targeted a particular market segment in the United States in ~ the last decade - the young and hip.  People are willing to pay a premium to appear hip.  Not as large of a premium as people pay for the image of prosperity, but they are still paying a premium over similar cars.        
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: OriginalRessotaspiksMan on August 31, 2009, 04:44:56 PM
I'd say French and Vauxhall cars are all about image that lasts for 12 mths and is sold.
Alfas are all image, but dont start, and bits fall off.
BMW is flash image, but chances are, all your friends have one too.
Japanese cars change so often, no one knows what the fuck they are about.

In Europe, VW says "dependable, non-funky, safe to the point of being invisible".And that gets turned around, into being a fashion statement in its own right.In the same way that Porsches have shit styling deliberately.

Maybe things are different in the US, cos cars are ridiculously cheap..I think, vs Euro makes.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: ttfg on August 31, 2009, 04:46:38 PM
Kraps, Emp :


I guess this isnt the right time to mention I own an Audi S4.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: OriginalRessotaspiksMan on August 31, 2009, 04:49:04 PM
Image plays heavily into car purchases in general.  There's no reason to buy a Mercedes instead of a Hyndai, for example.  You get the same utility but far lower cost of ownership with a Hyndai as compared to a Mercedes, yet some people still are willing to spend over $30,000 up front for a new car.  The image of prosperity is worth tens of thousands of dollars more.

VW has successfully targeted a particular market segment in the United States in ~ the last decade - the young and hip.  People are willing to pay a premium to appear hip.  Not as large of a premium as people pay for the image of prosperity, but they are still paying a premium over similar cars.        

There's also the depreciation and reliability.So the premium aint always that much.

But yeah, image and identity is a huge aspect.
Icant  follow why some makes like BMW and Merc water down their names by making midget cars...
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: ttfg on August 31, 2009, 04:54:20 PM
Merc makes com veh. Did long before 'midget' cars. They also make busses. The reason BMW and Merc chose to move into other classes of car is due to the demo shifting. They needed smaller cars, if only to say that they could build them.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: OriginalRessotaspiksMan on August 31, 2009, 05:02:14 PM
But it used to be, tell someone u had a Merc and it was a big deal.
Now they just think "hmm that baby's pram on 4 wheels" or the "heap of shit cobbled together in South Africa".Same with Jaguar.

Its gonna end up, the "cheapest" premium make will be Bentley or someone.

Why didn't Merc call the smaller ones MB2 or sthg?
Its like accountants took over carmaking( infact they did with Merc, and fucked it)
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Emperor Reagan on August 31, 2009, 05:09:30 PM
Total cost of ownership figures in the cost to operate, maintain, finance, insure, etc. the car as well as the depreciation of the car.  

Sometimes the premium isn't that much.  Typically, though, cars that cost more and push into the luxury categories carry a heavy premium because they cost more to repair, have larger engines/cost more to operate per mile, and the upfront costs effect how much you pay in finance charges and taxes and how much value you lose through depreciation since cars don't retain value very well.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: ttfg on August 31, 2009, 05:17:00 PM
Its like accountants took over carmaking( infact they did with Merc, and fucked it)

Merc wasent fucked by the accounts. Merc was fucked by Chrysler. I think the accounts problay saved Merc.

Quote
But it used to be, tell someone u had a Merc and it was a big deal.
Now they just think "hmm that baby's pram on 4 wheels" or the "heap of shit cobbled together in South Africa".Same with Jaguar.

Ford was the best thing to ever happen to Jag. Sure the switchgear went cheap....its things like that which make the car the better choice over the Aston.




Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Emperor Reagan on August 31, 2009, 06:13:14 PM
Kraps, Emp :


I guess this isnt the right time to mention I own an Audi S4.

I didn't mean to imply that I thought there was anything wrong with picking one car over another.  You paid for what you wanted - whatever premiums there were for performance, image, etc over a car that provided basic utility.

I have a hybrid.  I was willing to pay the premium for a more fuel efficient car because I anticipated gas prices increasing beyond $4/gallon.  There was also a premium for image involved, given the trendiness of hybrids among certain demographics.  In retrospect, I think it was a stupid purchase because the price of gasoline hasn't kept pace with what I anticipated.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: ttfg on August 31, 2009, 06:22:01 PM
I didnt take you comments that way.  It's just we were getting into the whole image thing....and here's me driving an Audi.

and it's not just the price of gas ? (The fule eco of desiels is beating hybirds now, but the size of them would be an issue ?)
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: mosh on August 31, 2009, 06:28:01 PM
no/no/only if its pink

That's hot.

Can I see your boobs?
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: mosh on August 31, 2009, 06:31:30 PM
Why didn't Merc call the smaller ones MB2 or sthg?
Its like accountants took over carmaking( infact they did with Merc, and fucked it)

They did change the name, they called it Smart.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Emperor Reagan on August 31, 2009, 06:44:23 PM
I didnt take you comments that way.  It's just we were getting into the whole image thing....and here's me driving an Audi.

and it's not just the price of gas ? (The fule eco of desiels is beating hybirds now, but the size of them would be an issue ?)

At the time I bought, the hybrid was cheaper to operate than a similar diesel.

I'm thinking I'll get a motorcycle for my next vehicle because you can get great gas mileage and because I could work on it myself.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Zoomie on August 31, 2009, 06:47:24 PM
This is good. This is very good. My theory is being proven. Actually two are being proven. Please go on.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Emperor Reagan on August 31, 2009, 06:51:31 PM
I await the reveal of these theories!

No more discussion until I find out!
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Zoomie on August 31, 2009, 06:59:55 PM
How dare you halt my research sir! How dare you!

BTW the Concusar and the bogtroopers are drinking at the Pirate Tavern at the Renn on the 6th, you're invited.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: FAH-Q on August 31, 2009, 08:31:38 PM
Who here owns/drives/wants a VW?

Owns/drives? No. Honda and Toyota for me.
Wants? Sure, I'd take an R32 Golf.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: mosh on August 31, 2009, 08:34:57 PM
Who here owns/drives/wants a VW?

Owns/drives? No. Honda and Toyota for me.
Wants? Sure, I'd take an R32 Golf.

Wants? Sure, I'd take an Bugatti Veyron.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Zoomie on August 31, 2009, 08:38:50 PM
Ok that skewed the data.

There were two theories. The first is that the most bugshit crazy people on earth drive VW. Apparently it's mostly crazy women, at least in my experience. My current wife and her ex included, though she's been in a Honda for 20 years.

The second isn't a theory really, just more of an observation. The most intelligent people here are constantly ready to debate the economics of ANY subject, whether it be cars, women, porn or movies. And I enjoy reading it.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: underclass on August 31, 2009, 08:45:02 PM
I shit on your theory, Dr Poopface
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Zoomie on August 31, 2009, 08:46:27 PM
Oh go sit on a bullet train.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: underclass on August 31, 2009, 08:48:49 PM
* shuffles off to Tokyo station
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Wozzeck on August 31, 2009, 08:50:14 PM
The most economical, fun, and stylish car is, I find, the one found in someone's barn.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Zoomie on August 31, 2009, 08:51:31 PM
You would be the exception to the rule.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: underclass on August 31, 2009, 08:52:25 PM
The most economical, fun, and stylish car is, I find, the one found in someone's barn.


that would be a donkey, shitbrains
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Zoomie on August 31, 2009, 08:54:29 PM
Which proves my point
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Wozzeck on August 31, 2009, 08:58:41 PM
Culture-less swine.

http://images.google.com/images?hl=en&safe=off&um=1&q=barn+finds&sa=N&start=18&ndsp=18 (http://images.google.com/images?hl=en&safe=off&um=1&q=barn+finds&sa=N&start=18&ndsp=18)
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Emperor Reagan on August 31, 2009, 09:48:50 PM
BTW the Concusar and the bogtroopers are drinking at the Pirate Tavern at the Renn on the 6th, you're invited.

I'll be there!

Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: mosh on August 31, 2009, 10:32:23 PM
Ok that skewed the data.

There were two theories. The first is that the most bugshit crazy people on earth drive VW. Apparently it's mostly crazy women, at least in my experience. My current wife and her ex included, though she's been in a Honda for 20 years.

The second isn't a theory really, just more of an observation. The most intelligent people here are constantly ready to debate the economics of ANY subject, whether it be cars, women, porn or movies. And I enjoy reading it.

Ok, to be a bit cheaper, I'd consider a Lambo Murchilago or an Audi RS8 or whatever it is...

VW's nice as they might be, are boring as batshit, generally.
But they can be funny:
jeremy and james make an advert for volkswagen part 2 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KUxfFbimmWE#normal)
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: 13chemicals on September 01, 2009, 01:01:19 AM
I was thinking about trading my Mini in for a Jetta, but I am having second thoughts since that car that gets 200 miles to the gallon just came out.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Wozzeck on September 01, 2009, 01:12:18 AM
It's a two-seat go-cart that will probably offset any gas savings with a combination of complete lack of usefulness and fashionable over-pricedness.

You're better off with the Mini, or if you really just want a new car, Fiat is supposed to be bringing the new 500 over. The Ford Fiesta is also supposed to be really nice.

Fiat: http://jalopnik.com/338016/2008-fiat-500 (http://jalopnik.com/338016/2008-fiat-500)

Ford: http://jalopnik.com/5195986/ford-fiesta-first-drive (http://jalopnik.com/5195986/ford-fiesta-first-drive)
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: mosh on September 01, 2009, 03:42:35 AM
Ford Fiesta is a fantastic car, and the new model looks great. I drove a Fiat 500 a while back, not bad, if I was looking for one of those, I'd go with Abarth model. If you like BMW, then stick with the Mini.

But you want something fun, Ariel Atom http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ariel_Atom (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ariel_Atom)
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: OriginalRessotaspiksMan on September 01, 2009, 04:11:20 AM
Its like accountants took over carmaking( infact they did with Merc, and fucked it)

Merc wasent fucked by the accounts. Merc was fucked by Chrysler. I think the accounts problay saved Merc.

Quote
But it used to be, tell someone u had a Merc and it was a big deal.
Now they just think "hmm that baby's pram on 4 wheels" or the "heap of shit cobbled together in South Africa".Same with Jaguar.

Ford was the best thing to ever happen to Jag. Sure the switchgear went cheap....its things like that which make the car the better choice over the Aston.







I agree that the premium names need to be part of mass manufacturers for research and development.But Ford sold Jag off to India anyway.What I diagree with is a car that waters down a name eg the baby Jag that shares so many parts with teh Ford Mondeo.

On Merc, what I mean is that the US side (Chrysler)had a perspective of cut costs+ increase sales and cut quality.In Europe that is considered classic accountant's style of management.
The opposite is product-centric management.

Merc became a terrible product.Dealers were squeezed to fuck and hence started trying to rip off customers at servicing.And the cars became horrifically poor quality.But American cars are
"cut quality and costs" and add some bits and pieces for a lower price".
I was disgusted with what Mercedes had become.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: mosh on September 01, 2009, 04:52:41 AM
So, buy BMW or Audi.

Or buy Australian, Vauxhall VXR. I own one.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: taiko on September 01, 2009, 10:45:58 AM
Go Nano!
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: taiko on September 01, 2009, 10:46:41 AM
The first is that the most bugshit crazy people on earth drive VW.

Lucky said he drives one, and I don't think he's batshit crazy.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: 13chemicals on September 01, 2009, 10:50:09 AM
The only problem with keeping the Mini is the high cost for parts.  I just had to wait two months to get the thing fixed because a part had to be shipped from Europe.  My dad had to buy me a temporary car.  An ugly one too!  A Pontiac Sunfire.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: underclass on September 01, 2009, 11:13:23 AM
your parents buy you cars and you somehow manage to be up against it?
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: ttfg on September 01, 2009, 11:16:21 AM
What part couldnt be found in the USA ? It's not like Mini is a rare.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Doormouse on September 01, 2009, 11:23:45 AM
The pretentious attitude.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: OriginalRessotaspiksMan on September 01, 2009, 11:32:58 AM
So, buy BMW or Audi.

Or buy Australian, Vauxhall VXR. I own one.

BMs are good cars.Like Merc, but the dealers I find are much more professional.
Audis are good, but I'm not fussed on the styling generally.

Aussie Vauxhall, I don't think I've ever seen one in Britain.Or Europe even.

Re mini and parts from Europe.Sounds like the dealer is being a cock, maybe?
Its to do with cutting costs by getting parts in bulk discount shipments  rather than immediate delivery.
I had Merc try and give me a bullshitter saying "Oh that part has to come in from Germany".

Minis a great car BTW
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: FAH-Q on September 01, 2009, 12:51:22 PM
But you want something fun, Ariel Atom http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ariel_Atom (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ariel_Atom)

Want.

your parents buy you cars and you somehow manage to be up against it?

Man, seriously! I've owned four (working) bikes and four cars, and I've yet to be given one.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Wozzeck on September 01, 2009, 12:54:34 PM
The only problem with keeping the Mini is the high cost for parts.  I just had to wait two months to get the thing fixed because a part had to be shipped from Europe.  My dad had to buy me a temporary car.  An ugly one too!  A Pontiac Sunfire.

 What the hell? When I needed a fuel pump for my '67 Chrysler I ended up having to get it from France (which continues to mystify me), but even so it only took about a week. I think your mistake is relying on a dealer/mechanic to get parts for you.

 Nonetheless, sounds like you should look at the Fiesta.

your parents buy you cars and you somehow manage to be up against it?

Pontiac Sunfire
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Wozzeck on September 01, 2009, 04:28:25 PM
Quote
I drove a Fiat 500 a while back, not bad, if I was looking for one of those, I'd go with Abarth model.

 It sounds good, for people who are into compact, FWD cars, but Fiat may have trouble selling in the US considering their reputation here as comically unreliable.

 Then again, Ford has the only decent domestic small car, and the Japanese models have mostly become boring appliances.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: ttfg on September 01, 2009, 04:37:11 PM
That hunday BMW clone is a nice drive. i30 or whatever they called it.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: mosh on September 02, 2009, 05:10:15 AM
So, buy BMW or Audi.

Or buy Australian, Vauxhall VXR. I own one.
Aussie Vauxhall, I don't think I've ever seen one in Britain.Or Europe even.

Well, I imagine fueling a 6.2 litre is a bit of a stretch at British prices... but they only be available in the UK, RHD market.  I saw a few Monaro's last time I was in the UK, so someone must be comfortable with excessive fuel bills...

It sounds good, for people who are into compact, FWD cars, but Fiat may have trouble selling in the US considering their reputation here as comically unreliable.

I drove a Punto in the UK in 2007, and seriously it scared the hell out of me at 100mph. From what I understand, the 500 is good reliability wise, but would I drive on on an Interstate?

No fucking way.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Emperor Reagan on September 02, 2009, 09:07:38 AM
I once drove my sister's Kia Rio down to Baltimore from the mountains of West Virigina...I think I hit ~115 mph in it with the pedal flat on the floor going down some pretty steep grades.  That was pretty terrifying, but at the same time I didn't want to slow down.

Most cars are fine at the 55-65 mph you're supposed to drive on US interstates, though.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Doormouse on September 02, 2009, 12:52:58 PM
I keep hearing these pundits say that American car companies don't make cars that Americans want to buy. Well, Saturn makes cars that Americans want to buy.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: (_)_)===D on September 02, 2009, 12:53:34 PM
Ha ha!
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: ttfg on September 02, 2009, 01:00:08 PM
I keep hearing these pundits say that American car companies don't make cars that Americans want to buy. Well, Saturn makes cars that Americans want to buy.

Vauxhall clones.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: FAH-Q on September 02, 2009, 05:13:12 PM
I once drove ... Kia Rio

Ouch!
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: OriginalRessotaspiksMan on September 03, 2009, 05:38:12 AM
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: mosh on September 03, 2009, 06:13:33 AM
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: mosh on September 03, 2009, 06:14:20 AM
I keep hearing these pundits say that American car companies don't make cars that Americans want to buy. Well, Saturn makes cars that Americans want to buy.

Vauxhall clones.

Opel design.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Wozzeck on September 04, 2009, 03:13:57 PM
 I'd just like tot ake a moment to show you my dream ride, one seriously Bitchin' Camaro:

(http://cache.gawker.com/assets/images/12/2009/09/500x_six-wheeled-el-camaro-2.jpg)


Business up front, party in the rear!

http://jalopnik.com/5352749/welcome-to-kentucky-heres-your-six+wheeled-el-camaro (http://jalopnik.com/5352749/welcome-to-kentucky-heres-your-six+wheeled-el-camaro)
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Zoomie on September 04, 2009, 03:34:23 PM
Take you six months to save up for that, during which time you can grow a mullet and buy a shitload of wifebeaters.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Thrash on September 04, 2009, 04:29:34 PM
for a pricier vehicle, (meaning pricier than my awesome little mazda), i'd much sooner buy an acura, or step up to a beamer.

That's my problem with VW.  It's paying a premium for a nameplate without any added utility, reliability, features, cheaper repairs, etc. over similar vehicles. 

Same reason I'll never buy a Mac.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Daddy on September 04, 2009, 08:23:52 PM
owned/drove/bought it for my wife after she totaled her old car and it fucking died two years later.

I will never buy one again.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: 13chemicals on September 04, 2009, 08:44:57 PM
A wife?
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Daddy on September 04, 2009, 08:51:27 PM
A wife?

I've been married for ten years.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Wozzeck on September 04, 2009, 08:56:38 PM
Nothing says "I have arrived" like the gleam of Rustoleum sprayed around the ragged edges of rotting bodywork.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: fyrenza on September 05, 2009, 02:20:42 AM
When we got back from Japan, my dad bought this:

(http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee57/Fyrenza/73Javelin.jpg)

(http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee57/Fyrenza/73Javelin2.jpg)
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: FAH-Q on September 05, 2009, 12:51:23 PM
That's pretty fuckin' sweet.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: mosh on September 05, 2009, 01:27:41 PM
It is a nice car.

I like the original Hornet too.

But then AMC lost the plot... Gremlin? Pacer? BWAHAHAHAHAHAHA...
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Zoomie on September 05, 2009, 02:33:56 PM
Actually they merged with Jeep and were later bought by Chrysler. And you know what happens when Chrysler gets their hands on something. They became Eagle and were soon down to three models, then two, then one, then they were done.  But yeah the Pacer was pretty much their undoing. That and the ugly little 4WD station wagons they made.

My mother owned Ramblers and then AMCs, including a Javelin in the early 70s. Great car. Was eaten by an automatic carwash before they had sensors to tell the scrubbers they were too close. Later she had a Gremlin for a short time and then a Hornet. My first car was a Matador. AMCs were parts cars, in that they bought some components from other car makers and assembled them. My Matador had a Ford electrical system  and radio and a Chevy steering column.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Wozzeck on September 05, 2009, 02:58:30 PM
(http://oldcarandtruckpictures.com/AmericanMotors/1973_AMC_Hornet_4_Door_sedan-dec21g.jpg)

 A friend of mine had one of these, a 1973 Hornet affectionately known as "The Hernet", in 70's shithouse brown. It was a beater, and you could start it without the key just by twisting the ignition cylinder hard enough, but man was it a fun little bitch.


Fun fact: These things were available with a "Levis" option, which got you an interior upholstered in denim.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Zoomie on September 05, 2009, 03:05:10 PM
We had this one in Rally Orange:

(http://www.carhobby.com/71aPCspt.JPG)
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Wozzeck on September 05, 2009, 03:09:53 PM
American manufacturers need to bring back inline-6's and cheap, rear-wheel drive compacts to put them in.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: bagman on September 05, 2009, 03:15:42 PM
Late to the game : no/no/I would take a VW R32.

My RX-8 has been nothing but fucked, for the 5 years I've owned. I am just under 69K miles, and it's about time to get the engine replaced for the 4th time. I looked into any class action suits and unfortunately there are none, and the Texas lemon laws aren't really all that great in protecting consumers. For one, if the dealer can show they have tried to repair the problem in good faith (they have replaced the engines), you're fucked. Secondly, you have to file a complaint when the vehicle is under 24k miles (or 24 months) whichever comes first, and my first engine didn't die until nearly three years into owning the car, and at 33k miles.

Currently my dream car is of course the Nissan GT-R.
(http://img193.imageshack.us/img193/6566/nissangtr4.jpg)

I also really like the 2010 Dodge Challenger SRT8.
(http://www.caranddriver.com/var/ezwebin_site/storage/images/reviews/hot_lists/high_performance/muscle_cars/2008_dodge_challenger_srt8_short_take_road_test/2008_dodge_challenger_srt8_short_take/2008_dodge_challenger_srt8_10/1356226-1-eng-US/2008_dodge_challenger_srt8_10_gallery_image_large.jpg)

and actually the 2010 Chevy Camaro's look fucking hot in person.
(http://files.conceptcarz.com/img/Chevrolet/Chevy-Camaro_Black-Concept-09-04-800.jpg)

The only color to get a car in is black.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: FAH-Q on September 05, 2009, 03:37:12 PM
GT-R's are fucking amazing.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: ttfg on September 05, 2009, 03:41:44 PM
Harsh ride though. They dont have a decent suspension soloution for Aussie roads yet.

and before I forget, Si, the R32 golf is a piece of shit.

edit : Si and kyle.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: bagman on September 05, 2009, 04:01:11 PM
Why is the R32 a piece? It looks incredibly fun.

Fifth Gear review of VW R32 against BMW 130 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WtF6fCFviAo#normal)
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: ttfg on September 05, 2009, 04:14:05 PM
The GTi goes just as fast, doesnt understeer as much and is cheaper to run.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Zoomie on September 05, 2009, 04:14:57 PM
American manufacturers need to bring back inline-6's and cheap, rear-wheel drive compacts to put them in.

This. A straight 232 with downdraft Mikunis or Strombergs in an old 260Z would tear the undies out of just about anything of equal weight and size rolling off the line today.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Wozzeck on September 05, 2009, 05:38:16 PM
Ford still makes straight-six, RWD cars... for Australia. But no one mass-produces anything of equal weight to older cars, because the Feds know better than we do what is safe enough for us to drive, what is safe enough for Mother Gaia, and, uh, I guess everyone just now needs AC and power everything and 500 lbs. of sound-proofing or whatever.

 Just look at Kyle's dream cars:

The world's most expensive cheaply produced sports car, whose drive train will self-destruct if you tell the on-board computer to stop controlling the throttle for you.

A remake of an old pony car which manages to look exactly like a paunchy, middle-aged alcoholic version of its younger self... which costs too much and weighs at least a thousand pounds more than it should.

Generation umpteenth of another old pony car, which looks kind of like a retarded cousin of the original, fairly fatassed in its own right, but at least it does go fast. Too bad you can't cruise with your arm out the window without dislocating it.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: mosh on September 05, 2009, 08:38:17 PM
Ford still makes straight-six, RWD cars... for Australia. But no one mass-produces anything of equal weight to older cars, because the Feds know better than we do what is safe enough for us to drive, what is safe enough for Mother Gaia, and, uh, I guess everyone just now needs AC and power everything and 500 lbs. of sound-proofing or whatever.

 Just look at Kyle's dream cars:

The world's most expensive cheaply produced sports car, whose drive train will self-destruct if you tell the on-board computer to stop controlling the throttle for you.

A remake of an old pony car which manages to look exactly like a paunchy, middle-aged alcoholic version of its younger self... which costs too much and weighs at least a thousand pounds more than it should.

Generation umpteenth of another old pony car, which looks kind of like a retarded cousin of the original, fairly fatassed in its own right, but at least it does go fast. Too bad you can't cruise with your arm out the window without dislocating it.

The Camaro is a Holden Commodore underneath. Owning the current Holden Calias (top of the range Commodore), I can tell you they handle. for a car that's just under 2 metres wide, 5 metres long and 2 tons, I throw that baby around and know its going to be point perfect every time. I can tell you that the Camaro will be even tighter. The window sill does look high though.

I drove that new Ford Falcon a few weeks ago, and finally they've made one I would buy. 4 litre straight six goes like stink, you can fix 6 people in it. Pity they dont make it in LHD. Ford fucked up there, Holden sells shitloads of the Commodore and Statesman to the Arabs.

Dont underestimate Australians and their love of big cars.

I'd like to play with one of these:
(http://www.privatefleet.com.au/images/upload/Image/new-cars/HSV/08%20HSV%20Maloo%20R8.jpg)
(http://www.netcarshow.com/fpv/2008-super_pursuit/800x600/wallpaper_02.htm)
They aint pickups, they be utilities, called ute (pronounced you-t)

We told Kyle not to buy an RX8. Sure they look great, and go hard, but those engines last about as long as a Top Gear road test.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: ttfg on September 05, 2009, 08:41:30 PM
This is the type of thread that would make me go gay.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: mosh on September 05, 2009, 08:43:05 PM
Like you arent already?
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Zoomie on September 05, 2009, 08:44:07 PM
I swear, word for word that's what I was going for...
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: mosh on September 05, 2009, 08:47:59 PM
Dude, the door was open, anyone could have walked through...
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: ttfg on September 05, 2009, 08:53:59 PM
Im not gay, I just need the tight holes.


Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: fyrenza on September 06, 2009, 01:51:27 PM
i'd like to play with one of these:
(http://www.privatefleet.com.au/images/upload/Image/new-cars/HSV/08%20HSV%20Maloo%20R8.jpg)
(http://www.netcarshow.com/fpv/2008-super_pursuit/800x600/wallpaper_02.htm)
They aint pickups, they be utilities, called ute (pronounced you-t)

We told Kyle not to buy an RX8. Sure they look great, and go hard, but those engines last about as long as a Top Gear road test.
[/quote]

i think i like the looks of this one, better:

(http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee57/Fyrenza/sig%20pix/chevroletssr8.jpg)

(http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee57/Fyrenza/sig%20pix/12chevrolet-ssr4.jpg)


They sure remind me of the old Ford Rancheros and the Chevy El Caminos ~ now THOSE babies had a "back seat!"
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: mosh on September 06, 2009, 07:49:44 PM
Sure, they look great, but I'd take the Holden everytime...
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Zoomie on September 06, 2009, 07:52:55 PM
I sat in an pre-production limited edition SSR at the Baltimore Auto Show about 7 years ago. It looked nice, but felt like cheap plastic. Pass.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Wozzeck on September 07, 2009, 09:08:44 PM
Hey, who has $2500 they never want to see again?

http://myrtlebeach.craigslist.org/cto/1362866499.html (http://myrtlebeach.craigslist.org/cto/1362866499.html)

(http://images.craigslist.org/3nb3kf3le5Oa5Pb5S99978ae5bf742d40154e.jpg)

I roll straight-sixes, OG style bitches.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Zoomie on September 07, 2009, 09:39:20 PM
Had me scared there for a moment. I thought that was a Volare...
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Wozzeck on September 08, 2009, 01:11:27 AM
The Volare never happened.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: mosh on September 08, 2009, 07:02:37 AM
Fuck, I got the Moshmobile serviced today... 45000 kilometre service... oil, fluids, general check up... $650.

Fucking hell. They did replace the faulty bluetooth module for me under warranty (the bluetooth worked, but was draining the battery overnight)... I asked about the onboard sat nav... the car is capable and ready, but needs a module installed. Price, $3300. FUCK THAT, I'll stick to a Melways.

The other fun bit of news was the tyres are about ready for replacement (the hell they are, if I can still see traces of tread, then they be good to go), Bridgestone Potenza's 18 inch 245's - $650 a pop! $2600 for a set of new tyres!
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Zoomie on September 08, 2009, 08:06:42 AM
Yeah... this is another in the long list of reasons why I'll continue to stick to old pickup trucks.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: taiko on September 08, 2009, 09:30:47 AM
Yeah... this is another in the long list of reasons why I'll continue to stick to old pickup trucks.

Falling apart, but reliable when they're not busted.

Just like Zooms.   :-*  :D
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Zoomie on September 08, 2009, 10:29:36 AM
Abso-fuckin'-lutely.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: Wozzeck on September 08, 2009, 12:20:03 PM
I can read a map and there is nothing I have to say to my car over IRC.
Title: Re: Answer a question to help me prove a theory:
Post by: FAH-Q on September 08, 2009, 03:32:47 PM
If I lived in the US I'd totally have satnav. I have very little sense of direction in urban type areas.