New Vehicle Advice

[Firebird]

Ok, so not new but "new to me." The catalytic converter went out on my 98 Dodge Dakota. It's gonna be around 1,000 to fix, which for a truck that is listed at 4,500 on the blue book is a little steep. Not to mention that although I'll always have a soft spot for that truck and the 5.9 V9 (R/T), gas is now 4.00 a gallon and I am tired of feeding it.

So I am gonna be downsizing. My main rule is "no domestics." I would never buy anything other than an American truck, but American small cars are crap. I've narrowed down my list a bit, I'll put them in my rough order right now. I would appreciate any advice if any of you know anything about them:

1. Mazda3 (My favorite, though I will be paying a bit more)
2. Nissan Versa (hatchback model)
3. Toyota Corolla
4. Hynduai Elanta
5. Scion xA/xD

Honestly, my first choice would be a Civic, but a Civic with the mileage I want is a bit out of my price range. I'm looking to buy and not borrow.

[Favpack]

My vote would be for the Elantra or Corolla. Consumer Reports is in love with the new Hyundais - nothing negative at all.

And you simply can't go wrong with a Corolla. I might add a Honda Civic on there - as I think they beat both handily in the mpg race.

[Firebird]

My vote would be for the Elantra or Corolla. Consumer Reports is in love with the new Hyundais - nothing negative at all.

And you simply can't go wrong with a Corolla. I might add a Honda Civic on there - as I think they beat both handily in the mpg race.

Yeah, but at the mileage I want they're a bit out of my range.....

[slorch]

No domestics?

who cleans the house?:confused:

[Firebird]

No domestics?

who cleans the house?:confused:

She is also an import:D

Except I do just as much cleaning:o

[HebronDad]

Firebird -

Here's the Cat:

Catco Catalytic Converter - Stainless Steel - 1998-1999 Dodge Dakota - $141.03

http://cpwstore.carpartswholesale.com/catalog/?N=9190&Nr=OR(AND(make:Dodge,model:Dakota,year:1998),AND(u niversal:1))&Vi=10110+1607+4294967268&y=1998&mk=Dodge&md=Dakota

For the New car smell...

Since you probably have octane in the blood from the 5.9 :) the Mazdaspeed3 won't disappoint. Also look at the Subaru WRX, it's close in $$ to the Speed3.

[twcpfan1]

I've never had a bad experience with Corollas. It's not so small like a Yaris or a Honda Fit where you would hesitate to travel to Houston from The Woodlands daily and fear getting run over by all the monster vehicles Texans typically drive. Great fuel economy. I get about 38 on the hwy right now in my 06. The first 100k, all you'd worry about are oil changes. They have a timing chain which I believe lasts for the life of the vehicle. I got the base model, and at 65k, I've never had to replace brake pads or tires. It comes standard with the Good Year integrity.

Another one I would consider is a Toyota Tacoma if you want to go the truck route. I've never minded the 4 cyl trucks. If price is an issue, you can risk it and go with the smaller US trucks like the 4cyl Ford Rander or a GMC Canyon(Chevy Colarado is the same truck). I believe they are Mazda and Isuzu trucks respectively and are in the same price range as a small import sedan. Both have very good reviews for the most part.

[t-long20]

Get the Corolla or Mazda. Whats up with you and hatchbacks?


Out of those two I would easily get the Mazda.

[Favpack]

I've never had a bad experience with Corollas. It's not so small like a Yaris or a Honda Fit where you would hesitate to travel to Houston from The Woodlands daily and fear getting run over by all the monster vehicles Texans typically drive. Great fuel economy. I get about 38 on the hwy right now in my 06. The first 100k, all you'd worry about are oil changes. They have a timing chain which I believe lasts for the life of the vehicle. I got the base model, and at 65k, I've never had to replace brake pads or tires. It comes standard with the Good Year integrity.

Another one I would consider is a Toyota Tacoma if you want to go the truck route. I've never minded the 4 cyl trucks. If price is an issue, you can risk it and go with the smaller US trucks like the 4cyl Ford Rander or a GMC Canyon(Chevy Colarado is the same truck). I believe they are Mazda and Isuzu trucks respectively and are in the same price range as a small import sedan. Both have very good reviews for the most part.

WOW - are you sure? I replaced my Camry tires at 38,000 miles. Maybe I used the wrong dealer?

[HebronDad]

I have 3 Hemis and a weekend hotrod, so my second mortgage goes to ExxonMobil...

[Mean DT]

Ok, so not new but "new to me." The catalytic converter went out on my 98 Dodge Dakota. It's gonna be around 1,000 to fix, which for a truck that is listed at 4,500 on the blue book is a little steep. Not to mention that although I'll always have a soft spot for that truck and the 5.9 V9 (R/T), gas is now 4.00 a gallon and I am tired of feeding it.

So I am gonna be downsizing. My main rule is "no domestics." I would never buy anything other than an American truck, but American small cars are crap. I've narrowed down my list a bit, I'll put them in my rough order right now. I would appreciate any advice if any of you know anything about them:

1. Mazda3 (My favorite, though I will be paying a bit more)
2. Nissan Versa (hatchback model)
3. Toyota Corolla
4. Hynduai Elanta
5. Scion xA/xD

Honestly, my first choice would be a Civic, but a Civic with the mileage I want is a bit out of my price range. I'm looking to buy and not borrow.Not much of a selection.:D

[RedRage00]

Ok, so not new but "new to me." The catalytic converter went out on my 98 Dodge Dakota. It's gonna be around 1,000 to fix, which for a truck that is listed at 4,500 on the blue book is a little steep. Not to mention that although I'll always have a soft spot for that truck and the 5.9 V9 (R/T), gas is now 4.00 a gallon and I am tired of feeding it.

So I am gonna be downsizing. My main rule is "no domestics." I would never buy anything other than an American truck, but American small cars are crap. I've narrowed down my list a bit, I'll put them in my rough order right now. I would appreciate any advice if any of you know anything about them:

1. Mazda3 (My favorite, though I will be paying a bit more)
2. Nissan Versa (hatchback model)
3. Toyota Corolla
4. Hynduai Elanta
5. Scion xA/xD

Honestly, my first choice would be a Civic, but a Civic with the mileage I want is a bit out of my price range. I'm looking to buy and not borrow.

Hynduai's have come a long way.....I remember when they were cr@p cars.
I'd go with either the Hynduai (I can't ever spell that correctly lol) or with the Corolla.

I would go with a Civic because Honda has never let me down(I have an Accord)...but I understand about your price range.

1. Corolla
2. Elantra

[slorch]

She is also an import:D

Except I do just as much cleaning:o

typical import...:D

[Firebird]

Get the Corolla or Mazda. Whats up with you and hatchbacks?


Out of those two I would easily get the Mazda.

They're convenient....I like 'em.

[t-long20]

They're convenient....I like 'em.

Convenient in what way? If convineance is your style than why not get a two-door coupe?;)

[HebronDad]

Mazdaspeed3 = 263 hp :)

0-60 in 6+,
1/4 mle in 14.5

Youtube Review - http://video.google.com/videosearch?hl=en&rls=CNDB,CNDB:2003-39,CNDB:en&resnum=0&q=mazdaspeed%203&um=1&ie=UTF-8&sa=N&tab=wv#

[t-long20]

Mazdaspeed3 = 263 hp :)

0-60 in 6+,
1/4 mle in 14.5

Youtube Review - http://video.google.com/videosearch?hl=en&rls=CNDB,CNDB:2003-39,CNDB:en&resnum=0&q=mazdaspeed%203&um=1&ie=UTF-8&sa=N&tab=wv#

And thats why I would pick the Mazda.;)

[ktCarl]

Ok, so not new but "new to me." The catalytic converter went out on my 98 Dodge Dakota. It's gonna be around 1,000 to fix, which for a truck that is listed at 4,500 on the blue book is a little steep. Not to mention that although I'll always have a soft spot for that truck and the 5.9 V9 (R/T), gas is now 4.00 a gallon and I am tired of feeding it.

So I am gonna be downsizing. My main rule is "no domestics." I would never buy anything other than an American truck, but American small cars are crap. I've narrowed down my list a bit, I'll put them in my rough order right now. I would appreciate any advice if any of you know anything about them:

1. Mazda3 (My favorite, though I will be paying a bit more)
2. Nissan Versa (hatchback model)
3. Toyota Corolla
4. Hynduai Elanta
5. Scion xA/xD

Honestly, my first choice would be a Civic, but a Civic with the mileage I want is a bit out of my price range. I'm looking to buy and not borrow.

I have a friend who is a retired engineer and he always bought used Toyota Corollas. He put well over 200,000 miles on those vehicles with no problems.

[slorch]

Firebird, I was thinking for Collie-ville, you need to reinstate Harry and Lloyd's poodle van. heck, while you're going over to Austin to take in a football game at the new palace, you could even do the beer bottle trick...:D

tic-tac, sir?

[Firebird]

Firebird, I was thinking for Collie-ville, you need to reinstate Harry and Lloyd's poodle van. heck, while you're going over to Austin to take in a football game at the new palace, you could even do the beer bottle trick...:D

tic-tac, sir?

I'm thinking about moonlighting as a pizza delivery man. Any advice as to what air freshener best covers the scent of anchovies?

[mad_fan]

typical import...:D

amen...

she's watching me...

:rolleyes:

[mad_fan]

I'm thinking about moonlighting as a pizza delivery man. Any advice as to what air freshener best covers the scent of anchovies?

I've got an idea...but if you get pulled over...you'll have issues with the officer when he's searching your new car...:D

[Favpack]

I've got an idea...but if you get pulled over...you'll have issues with the officer when he's searching your new car...:D

Getting the munchies and delivery pizza. Lethal combo.

[CoveMom]

Buy American. What about the Ford Escort or the Taurus? Or the Chevys? Or the small Dodge's?

Until The Husband bought his Prius, we never bought an import. And we drive our cars 10+ years. Currently have one that is 20 years old. But it's a diesel guzzler.

my .02

[Firebird]

Buy American. What about the Ford Escort or the Taurus? Or the Chevys? Or the small Dodge's?

Until The Husband bought his Prius, we never bought an import. And we drive our cars 10+ years. Currently have one that is 20 years old. But it's a diesel guzzler.

my .02

Drive a new Colbalt or Focus or Caliber and then go drive a new Corolla or Mazda3 or Elantra. Then come back and give me the same advice.

I'll buy an American small car when American small car makers stop insulting my intelligence.

[slorch]

amen...

she's watching me...

:rolleyes:

the font...

you kill me, man.:D

[pied]

I love my Fit, 33.5 mpg city/hwy for a year.

[TheBigPeach]

what about SUVs?

[HebronDad]

Drive a new Colbalt or Focus or Caliber and then go drive a new Corolla or Mazda3 or Elantra. Then come back and give me the same advice.

I'll buy an American small car when American small car makers stop insulting my intelligence.


BAMM !!! These days most of the imports are built right here in the good 'ol USA as a foreign factory but with USA employees. The UAW is seeing a slow death from this "fragmentation" style of manufacturing. Our days as an industrial powerhouse are long gone.

I teach at the graduate university level in computer security and approx. 85 -100% of my students are foreign throughout the academic year. University engineering departments all over the country say the same thing... I'm not knocking anybody, it's just that we seem to have lost our edge on the need to push the tougher degrees to our own national students.

[Winston]

You may think a Civic is too pricey now, but 10 years and 200,000+ low-maintenance miles later you may look back after buying one and decide it wasn't such a bad deal after all. At least, this is what I'm told by folks who have owned them.

[hunterbunter]

what about a hyundai sonata Firebird. those are nice

[tayb]

Altima Coupe. About to buy mine, you should too.

[hunterbunter]

maybe you guys can buy them together and get a discount

[HebronHawk]

BAMM !!! These days most of the imports are built right here in the good 'ol USA as a foreign factory but with USA employees. The UAW is seeing a slow death from this "fragmentation" style of manufacturing. Our days as an industrial powerhouse are long gone.

I teach at the graduate university level in computer security and approx. 85 -100% of my students are foreign throughout the academic year. University engineering departments all over the country say the same thing... I'm not knocking anybody, it's just that we seem to have lost our edge on the need to push the tougher degrees to our own national students.

Of the kids I talk to at the high school, many are not going to pursue engineering degrees. Business degrees are common, although there won't be much to sell if we don't have engineers to keep our technological edge sharp.

I hear Pre-Med and Pre-Law too. We have more than enough lawyers but we could use some additional doctors.

[HebronHawk]

Ok, so not new but "new to me." The catalytic converter went out on my 98 Dodge Dakota. It's gonna be around 1,000 to fix, which for a truck that is listed at 4,500 on the blue book is a little steep. Not to mention that although I'll always have a soft spot for that truck and the 5.9 V9 (R/T), gas is now 4.00 a gallon and I am tired of feeding it.

So I am gonna be downsizing. My main rule is "no domestics." I would never buy anything other than an American truck, but American small cars are crap. I've narrowed down my list a bit, I'll put them in my rough order right now. I would appreciate any advice if any of you know anything about them:

1. Mazda3 (My favorite, though I will be paying a bit more)
2. Nissan Versa (hatchback model)
3. Toyota Corolla
4. Hynduai Elanta
5. Scion xA/xD

Honestly, my first choice would be a Civic, but a Civic with the mileage I want is a bit out of my price range. I'm looking to buy and not borrow.

Kia makes a good solid car. Have you looked at any Kia's?

[RedRage00]

what about SUVs?

I think he's trying to avoid gas guzzlers.

I see so many trucks/SUVs around with FOR SALE signs in them. lol

[twcpfan1]

WOW - are you sure? I replaced my Camry tires at 38,000 miles. Maybe I used the wrong dealer?

I drive like a little old lady. Always at the speed limit. My wife and kid on the other hand go through tires every 30k. My wife's car needed brakes at 24k.

[twcpfan1]

I just bought a used 98 Altima for my youngest daughter.

I hear the current model is nice and is supposed to last forever. Might be a little bit more than what you said you'd spend though.

[SV61]

Honda first.

Civic

If you got the means, and are somewhat open minded, go drive a Cobalt SS. The magazines are saying LOTS of good things about this car.

[RedRage00]

I drive like a little old lady. Always at the speed limit. My wife and kid on the other hand go through tires every 30k. My wife's car needed brakes at 24k.

That is not a good image. :eek::D

[twcpfan1]

I think he's trying to avoid gas guzzlers.

I see so many trucks/SUVs around with FOR SALE signs in them. lol

They're actually worth considering when you factor in what you save on the purchase price (which is significant these days), you can put aside to buy gas.

The gas sippers aren't even offering rebates. Understandable since everybody wants one.

[KT2000]

Kia makes a good solid car. Have you looked at any Kia's?

I read a bunch of good reviews for KIAs, and went and test drove a Rio. I thought the thing was going to fall apart when I accelerated up to 55 on the feeder. I circled back under the freeway and drove it back to the lot after 3 minutes. The steering wheel felt very thin and fragile in my hands, and I am small. They get high ratings for safety, and the fact they have about 20 airbags standard. After test driving one, I see why they've got all those friggin air bags.

[SV61]

Had a lots of those types of experiences, driving rental cars.

THE WORST, was a Daewoo Leganza. Step on the gas, and it just made more noise. Didn't go any faster. The wind noise? Awful. The Radio? Something I whipped together in Junior high Electronics class.

Stick to makin Televisions for WalMart.

[twcpfan1]

Had a lots of those types of experiences, driving rental cars.

THE WORST, was a Daewoo Leganza. Step on the gas, and it just made more noise. Didn't go any faster. The wind noise? Awful. The Radio? Something I whipped together in Junior high Electronics class.

Stick to makin Televisions for WalMart.

I'd stay away from Korean cars altogether. I'd buy a Focus or a Cobalt before I'd get another Korean auto.

[pied]

Bought the wife a Kia Sedona awhile back and have had zero issues with it. I have not driven any other model.

[SV61]

I'd stay away from Korean cars altogether. I'd buy a Focus or a Cobalt before I'd get another Korean auto.


I think you are thinkin like US people did about Japanese cars in the 60's. Made in Japan during that time, was synonomous with crap.

While the Daewoo was a joke, Others like Hyundai and Yes, now Kia, will be big shortly. Korea is coming.

Next up? The Chinese. that REALLY scares me, for their quality at this stage anyway, is life threatening.

:eek:

[Firebird]

I'd stay away from Korean cars altogether. I'd buy a Focus or a Cobalt before I'd get another Korean auto.

Save a Hyundai.....they've gotten very, very, very good.

I was researching on AutoTrader and I may be able to swing a Civic if I shop around.....still like the Mazda the best though.

[KT2000]

The gas sippers aren't even offering rebates. Understandable since everybody wants one.

No sir. They don't need to. When I was in the market for a car, the Yaris had just hit the scene for Toyota. They weren't even making it to the lots. They had owners before they hit the pavement.

[pied]

I think you are thinkin like US people did about Japanese cars in the 60's. Made in Japan during that time, was synonomous with crap.

While the Daewoo was a joke, Others like Hyundai and Yes, now Kia, will be big shortly. Korea is coming.

Next up? The Chinese. that REALLY scares me, for their quality at this stage anyway, is life threatening.

:eek:



Not automobile, but have you seen how big Samsung/LG are getting?

[SV61]

Hyundai is getting big as well.

Korea is coming, I say!

F-Bird, I can see how the Mazda speed can grab you in the wedding tackle.

But if it were down to a Good Model Civic or a Mazda 3, and it is three years down the road, I KNOW which one will be better mechanical AND physically.

[twcpfan1]

Save a Hyundai.....they've gotten very, very, very good.

I was researching on AutoTrader and I may be able to swing a Civic if I shop around.....still like the Mazda the best though.

Overall quality might have gotten better on a Hyundai. But it's just little quirks like Check Engine Lights coming on and thermostats going that you wouldn't normally experience in a Toyota or a Honda for at least 100k. Do research on the Korean transmissions too. They force you to go to the dealership to get it serviced because of the rare brand of fluid that's used. They'll void the warranty if you get it done elsewhere. Toyota just uses generic Dexron III.

[RedRage00]

I'm keeping my Honda Accord until it dies....I hope thats a really long time. lol

[twcpfan1]

I'm keeping my Honda Accord until it dies....I hope thats a really long time. lol

I heard somewhere that some Nissan Altima made it past 400k.

[SV61]

I heard somewhere that some Nissan Altima made it past 400k.

I'll tell you what scares me about some of the Nissans, and other cars that use this technology:

The CVT tranny. It is a wonderful idea, technologically. I wonder what these bad boys will cost to repair, when the time comes.

:eek:

There is NO reason, why a vehicle, correctly maintained, should NOT last to 300K. Machining tolerances are more consistant, break in is NOT as critical, etc.

It is for this reason, that buying a vehicle today, with 100K, is comparable to buying a vehicle with 50K 20 years ago.

[Firebird]

I'll tell you what scares me about some of the Nissans, and other cars that use this technology:

The CVT tranny. It is a wonderful idea, technologically. I wonder what these bad boys will cost to repair, when the time comes.

:eek:

There is NO reason, why a vehicle, correctly maintained, should NOT last to 300K. Machining tolerances are more consistant, break in is NOT as critical, etc.

It is for this reason, that buying a vehicle today, with 100K, is comparable to buying a vehicle with 50K 20 years ago.

Ditto here......You can get a Versa with either the CVT, a stick, or a regular 4 speed auto. If I go that route it will be the manual or the 4-speed, as I love new technology but hate to be a guinea pig. If they work, I might look at one next go round.

[Redhoss]

Ok, so not new but "new to me." The catalytic converter went out on my 98 Dodge Dakota. It's gonna be around 1,000 to fix, which for a truck that is listed at 4,500 on the blue book is a little steep. Not to mention that although I'll always have a soft spot for that truck and the 5.9 V9 (R/T), gas is now 4.00 a gallon and I am tired of feeding it.

So I am gonna be downsizing. My main rule is "no domestics." I would never buy anything other than an American truck, but American small cars are crap. I've narrowed down my list a bit, I'll put them in my rough order right now. I would appreciate any advice if any of you know anything about them:

1. Mazda3 (My favorite, though I will be paying a bit more)
2. Nissan Versa (hatchback model)
3. Toyota Corolla
4. Hynduai Elanta
5. Scion xA/xD

Honestly, my first choice would be a Civic, but a Civic with the mileage I want is a bit out of my price range. I'm looking to buy and not borrow.


You might want to check this site out first. http://www.reviewcars.com/

I was somewhat surprised at some reviews of Honda and Toyota in the later models.

[RedRage00]

I heard somewhere that some Nissan Altima made it past 400k.

An old co worker of mine has had her Nissan Maxima since she bought it new in 1994. It didn't start giving her any problems until last year....and they were minor problems.

[t-long20]

Altima Coupe. About to buy mine, you should too.

:notworthy Great minds think alike. The Altima Coupe is on my soon the buy list as well.

[rocketgrl94]

I'll tell you what scares me about some of the Nissans, and other cars that use this technology:

The CVT tranny. It is a wonderful idea, technologically. I wonder what these bad boys will cost to repair, when the time comes.

:eek:

There is NO reason, why a vehicle, correctly maintained, should NOT last to 300K. Machining tolerances are more consistant, break in is NOT as critical, etc.

It is for this reason, that buying a vehicle today, with 100K, is comparable to buying a vehicle with 50K 20 years ago.

thats been in the Murano for years, i havent heard any problems about it, but i do want a Nissan Rogue, i've never had an SUV before and this is gonna be my first, but not for awhile i might let the first year pass so they can get all the kinks out and then buy the 2009..and for being a crossover it has really good gas mileage 22/27 compared to other crossovers and u can get alot more in a Rogue for the money then what you can get in the competitors crossovers....and i cant see it being to much to change one little chain on the CVT compared to all the parts on a regular transmission...but then again u never know;)

[tayb]

:notworthy Great minds think alike. The Altima Coupe is on my soon the buy list as well.

Yup. In the process of talking to dealers as we speak. I had been saving up for a few years to get a G35 but when Nissan launched the Altima Coupe I was all over it. I can get the same basic package (premium, the only way) for about 8 or 9 less. Couldn't care less about fuel economy... well I suppose I COULD technically care less... but I care very little :D.

[rocketgrl94]

Yup. In the process of talking to dealers as we speak. I had been saving up for a few years to get a G35 but when Nissan launched the Altima Coupe I was all over it. I can get the same basic package (premium, the only way) for about 8 or 9 less. Couldn't care less about fuel economy... well I suppose I COULD technically care less... but I care very little :D.

does the Altima Coupe have a CVT or no?....and Nissan does give u alot more for your money!:notworthy

[tayb]

does the Altima Coupe have a CVT or no?....and Nissan does give u alot more for your money!:notworthy

They offer the CVT and a 6-speed manual. I live IN the city of Austin and don't feel like dealing with manual in traffic so I'm going with the CVT.

[cougardude]

Yup. In the process of talking to dealers as we speak. I had been saving up for a few years to get a G35 but when Nissan launched the Altima Coupe I was all over it. I can get the same basic package (premium, the only way) for about 8 or 9 less. Couldn't care less about fuel economy... well I suppose I COULD technically care less... but I care very little :D.

You will love the Altima Coupe. I have had mine now for about a year and the gas mileage is great. I get anywhere from 17-20 in town and have gotten close to 30 on the highway before.

[HebronHawk]

I read a bunch of good reviews for KIAs, and went and test drove a Rio. I thought the thing was going to fall apart when I accelerated up to 55 on the feeder. I circled back under the freeway and drove it back to the lot after 3 minutes. The steering wheel felt very thin and fragile in my hands, and I am small. They get high ratings for safety, and the fact they have about 20 airbags standard. After test driving one, I see why they've got all those friggin air bags.

We have a Kia Sportage which has driven very well. No repairs in 2 years and the warranty is superior. About 17mpg in city driving.

[SV61]

We have a Kia Sportage which has driven very well. No repairs in 2 years and the warranty is superior. About 17mpg in city driving.

My 04 Chevrolet Silverado Z71 4x4 gets that (17 mpg), usually better!

No repairs, just maintenance. Mass Air sensor cleaning, fuel injection flush, oil, tranny, etc. The usual.

[pied]

I have kept every receipt that I received purchasing gas from 8/5 until this AM on my Honda Fit.

So far I have gotten 33.67 mpg.

Since May I have filled up 5 times and have gotten 36.62 avg for those tanks.

[SV61]

I have kept every receipt that I received purchasing gas from 8/5 until this AM on my Honda Fit.

So far I have gotten 33.67 mpg.

Since May I have filled up 5 times and have gotten 36.62 avg for those tanks.

THAT is one small rig that genuinely interests me. I know my wife would not drive it, but I would.

Along the mpg discussion, I bought a Honda Ruckus back in March. I have spend $6.00 on it since. 100 mpg. That's right, I have used a WHOLE GALLON AND A HALF (a little over actually). Street legal. Four stroke. Water cooled. Bout 40 mph.

http://powersports.honda.com/scooters/photos_enlarge.asp?sCategory=Scooters&sSubCategory=&ModelName=Ruckus&ModelYear=2009&ModelId=NPS509&ModelStyle=NPS509&iPageNum=2&w=751&h=569

[gtowndrumma]

I looked at an 07 mazda 3 5 door about a month ago (along with a lot of other cars) and i absolutely loved that car! I would go with either that or a newer civic. They are both great cars that will hold up for a long time.


of course my solution to the gas crisis (since i stand to lose up to 20K on my new silverado) is either the Honda CBR 600R or the Yamaha R6... I'm still deciding on which one i want to buy

[pied]

THAT is one small rig that genuinely interests me. I know my wife would not drive it, but I would.

Along the mpg discussion, I bought a Honda Ruckus back in March. I have spend $6.00 on it since. 100 mpg. That's right, I have used a WHOLE GALLON AND A HALF (a little over actually). Street legal. Four stroke. Water cooled. Bout 40 mph.

http://powersports.honda.com/scooters/photos_enlarge.asp?sCategory=Scooters&sSubCategory=&ModelName=Ruckus&ModelYear=2009&ModelId=NPS509&ModelStyle=NPS509&iPageNum=2&w=751&h=569

I thought about getting a scooter/small bike but couldn't convince myself or wife on the idea. The Fit is a good compromise in my situation. I love the car and the cost. The cost of ownership is great as well.

I am driving my MIL's Prius this week and LOVE it. It is an incredible machine and much nicer than my Fit.

[SV61]

I looked at an 07 mazda 3 5 door about a month ago (along with a lot of other cars) and i absolutely loved that car! I would go with either that or a newer civic. They are both great cars that will hold up for a long time.


of course my solution to the gas crisis (since i stand to lose up to 20K on my new silverado) is either the Honda CBR 600R or the Yamaha R6... I'm still deciding on which one i want to buy

The CBR600RR is BY FAR, a better street bike. It's also easier to ride fast, on track days.

The R6, especially this year, is waaaay too peaky. All 600 are peaky, but the R6 is ridiculous.

And wear your gear!

[GoOwls]

Bird.....Corolla, or work a few extra hours and get the Civic.

I'm planning on buying a Corolla (RS?) sport version for my retirement car.