About: Autolove

Joe Mavilia is a syndicated columnist with more than 35 years in the automotive industry. He is a member of the Motor Press Guild and Automotive Press Association. His reviews have been published in print media including the Los Angeles Times, The Golden Transcript - Colorado, La Feria News - Texas, The Pasadena Weekly - California, and others around the country, including www.theweekenddrive.com where he is the West Coast Editor. Reviews and Opinion Columns may also be seen in Sunnews.org and The Country Journal every week in the Antelope Valley, CA. I hope they are helpful

Recent Posts by Autolove

2001 Oldsmobile Aurora (322)

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2001 Oldsmobile Aurora (322)

Overview:

Long ago and far away I was impressed with Olds because dad owned several and it was one of the first cars I test drove. I don’t think dad knew that but it was my duty and part of my education to evaluate the cars of the day.

Dad’s reason for wanting to own Oldsmobile cars was broad, including the fact that he watched them grow from the early days and after more than 100 years of tradition and racing history, they’re still around. Speaking of racing, today the Aurora engine is what powers most of the IRL (Indianapolis Racing League) cars. Price Cobb, my racing friend and co-writer of Point CounterPoint at www.atthewheel.com is one of three or four teams that employ the Nissan Infiniti engine in competition with the Aurora. The majority is not always right and only time will tell if Olds will win out in the test of endurance demanded by engines that routinely run at or over 9,000 rpm.  

Well, I grew up with dad’s many Oldsmobile cars and I suspect that’s why I finally bought one of my own. It was a 1949 Olds 88 hardtop that I bought back in the late 1950’s. It was one of the loves of my life. Dad was right on most things and I agree that Olds makes a quality car. This Aurora is no exception and I truly enjoyed driving this 2001 model.

The exterior, although it has nice lines, it is plain Jane and rather commonplace in design. The interior is a different story and it provides a nice comfy / cozy feeling to settle back for a long and comfortable ride for those of us who simply enjoy driving.

Handling & Performance:

A solid quality ride for luxury performance while not being a road racer. This will appeal more to the sense of comfort and convenience. I’d want to add traction control if I purchased the V6. It’s an option on the V6 but standard on the V8 that I drove.

Styling:

Clean lines but uninspiring.

Fit and Finish:

As good as most of the competition, but in general, the Japanese cars tend to be better.

Conveniences:

Competitive.

Cost:

Well priced for a luxury car, but then price is always very relative. For those who purchased a home prior to the 1980’s few would have paid more than the price of this Aurora in the year 2000. What a difference 20 years makes, eh?

Recommendation:

The most impressive alternatives from the list below are the Mercedes and the Acura TL. The other American competitors are “also ran’s” and your preference in styling or make will determine the winner in a close race. The other foreign options are more expensive, so if the “Badge” is important that may be reason enough to justify your paying the extra dough. You may want to consider the V6 that does about 3 mpg better than this V8 without much loss in performance.

The Competition:

Acura TL $28,550-30,550, Audi A6 $34,400-49,400, BMW 5 Series $35,400-53,900, Buick Park Avenue $32,980- 37,490, Chrysler 300M $29,640, Infiniti I30 $39,465-31,540, Lexus GS 300/400 $37,805-46,305, Lincoln LS $31,665-35,695, Mercedes Benz C-Class $29,950-36,950, Saab 9-5 $33,995-40,175, Volvo S80 $36,000-40,500.

Good News:

Good gas mileage, luxury car feel, roomy interior and trunk, solid ride.

Bad News:

Rear windows roll down only about a third.

Standard Equipment:

4.0 liter V8 engine mated to a 4-speed automatic trans, front and side air bags, 4-wheel anti lock disc brakes, cruise control, remote keyless entry, speed sensitive steering, traction control, leather, power driver seat, burl walnut wood trim, power mirrors, stereo with cassette and CD, climate control, lighted vanity mirrors, moisture sensitive wipers, memory seat and mirror adjustment.

Gas Stats:

17 City and 25 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP  $34,644.

2001 Toyota Prius Hybrid 4-door Sedan (321)

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2001 Toyota Prius Hybrid 4-door Sedan (321)

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2001 Toyota Prius Hybrid gas / electric car. You may remember the review in the past few weeks that I did on the Honda Insight version of these first of a kind hybrid cars that employ a combination gas and electric system. The obvious purpose of these cars is to affect better gas mileage and economy. Why, you ask, is it that these cars must come from Japan? I asked the same question and am appalled that U.S. carmakers haven’t taken the lead in this technology.

 What about the Saturn EV1, you say? What about it? That is a feeble attempt that is a sham, in my angry opinion. Ok, we should forgive the idiots responsible and I expect they will wake up to reality in the future. I wonder if there is just too much special interest money suppressing the development of gas efficient cars. But as I said before, when gas goes to $4.00 a gallon, people will once again embrace anyone’s competitive product that gives them more for their money.

 I won’t digress too far, but consider the fact that gas prices have been adjusted in this country in devious ways in the ‘70’s, ‘80’s and now in the year 2000. You can’t tell me the small amount of oil coming from the OPEC countries can be blamed for this artificial adjustment. And I don’t think it fools too many others “mad as hell and we don’t want to take it any more” folks paying BS prices at the pump. Fact – the U.S. has the largest developed oil reserves in the world. Fact – the latest Alaska finds, albeit dirtier crude and more expensive to refine, equals by some accounts 30 years of OPEC oil. Wow, who’s trying to fool whom?

Ok, I’ll get off my soap box and tell you why this is a great car, although I think you’ve already guessed. 


Handling & Performance:

No different from most gas cars you’ve driven, except you’ll notice no change in gears because of the continuously variable automatic transmission. I’ll bet, aside from the quite engine / battery combination, you won’t be able to tell the difference from driving gas only competition. The Prius starts out on battery and switchs to the gas engine at higher speeds and depending on the load. That explains why the EPA stats are better in town than on the highway. That’s opposite to all other cars, including the Honda Insight Hybrid that starts off on the gas engine and is assisted by the battery when the throttle demands more power.

Styling: 

Worse than cookie-cutter. The aerodynamics likely dictate the design for mileage reasons and I guess economy cars seldom have that Beverly Hills flair anyway. I think they could have done better and should have looked to Italy or the US for some ideas. However, from my experience in Japan the consumer is less interested in fashion and fads. They use cars for transportation and we use them to make a personal statement. We’ve been convinced that “You are what you drive”. On the other hand, that attitude difference may have more to do with the price of gas being so much higher in Japan, and I suspect when prices go higher here, we’ll lose the BMW and Mercedes Benz bent.

Fit and Finish: 

Good. Well, they come from Japan where the work force is still number 2, so they try harder. It’s either that or they care more. What do you think? Why do the Japanese consistently produce more reliable cars?

Conveniences: 

Better than the Honda Insight plus you get to carry three more passengers. You get a lot more for the money. 

Cost: 

The same as the Insight, but gas performance is not as good, so effective cost is more. However, if you need more than a two seater, this is the better option for cost to value benefit. Too much difference from gas only competitors like the Chevy Metro.

 Recommendation: 

Although the two gas / electric options for 2001 both tout high mileage, they must be driven carefully to get that kind of performance. But comparing EPA numbers of all cars puts all on the same playing field. The Chevy Metro boasts nearly the same mileage as this Prius and you can buy it for a lot less money. I consider this the main drawback to buying one of these early alternatives to all gas cars.

The competition:

Chevrolet Metro $9,235-10,600, Honda Insight Hybrid $18,880, Hyundai Accent $8,999-9,699, Suzuki Swift $9,099-10,099, Volkswagen Golf $14,900-17,900. 

Good News:

Great gas mileage, roomy, comfortable, quiet and smooth ride, well equipped, gas / electric operation is transparent to the driver and you don’t have to plug it in since the gas engine and brakes recharge the battery automatically.

Bad News:

Too new to know what mechanical problems loom out there in the future, even though it has been sold in Japan for a few years. In addition Toyota must be confident enough, or is trying to build consumer confidence by offering an 8-year / 100,000 mile warranty on the battery and hybrid power system, styling could be better, too much money for the economy difference over gas only cars.     

Standard Equipment: 

1.5 liter 4 cylinder 70 horsepower gas engine, hybrid system including transaxle, inverter and battery providing about 40 horsepower, two magnet motor generators, front wheel drive, continuously variable automatic transmission, power front disc brakes with regenerative anti-lock system, dual air bags, keyless entry with security, power mirrors, climate control, power windows and door locks, AM/FM with cassette and filtration system.   

Gas Stats:

52 City and 45 Highway MPG. 

Pricing:

MSRP  $19,995.

Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is joe@atthewheel.com

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Copyright © 2000 – Automotive Love Affair

2000 Honda Insight Hybrid (319)

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2000 Honda Insight Hybrid (319)

Overview:

This week were looking at the Honda Insight Hybrid gas and electric vehicle. Next week we’ll be looking at Toyota’s version, the Prius. In any case, they’ve finally begun to develop alternative fuel cars that work. And what a great transition these are to totally non-fossil fuel propulsion cars. I’ll tell you right up front that I really like this car. Engineer friend Merkel, who teaches at the College of Design in Pasadena, was very impressed as well and says this is one of the most sophisticated cars on the road today. That sophistication includes a change over between gas and electric that is totally transparent to the driver because it is totally automatic.

This past couple of weeks has been an eye opener for me that confirms where I believe the auto industry is going. It has to – just look at gas prices. Where do you think the industry is going? Let me know at www.atthewheel.com.

A slight preview of next weeks Toyota’s Prius Hybrid is that it is a 4-door five-seater commuter that eliminates one of the two drawbacks I noted for the Honda. It’s only a two-seater. The second drawback, however, applies to both of these new innovative gas and electric cars, and that is the purchase price. Both are high relative to the gas benefit.

A few years ago I tested the Saturn EV1 and thought that was an embarrassing effort from American automakers. Now we should be even more embarrassed as we ask the question, “why is it that the real electric cars must come out of Japan”? Second question is, “Have we lost our inventive and innovative flair”, or is it an American conspiracy from the “Mega-Monopoly” auto industry? Your thoughts are welcomed.

Handling & Performance:

Outstanding for the most part, but you’ll find you have to learn to drive differently. Although there is good acceleration and it’s adequate for average driving, one noticeable difference is that you have to anticipate passing situations. There is a delay in getting the battery to kick in to give you passing speed. But once you get it rolling, it really moves. I didn’t get to see what the top end is, but it was still pulling well at 102 mph.

I’m sure the gas performance has been verified, but not even the “little old lady from Pasadena”, could get 70 mpg out of this car. But then, she has a lead foot like me.

Styling:

I have mixed emotions and found that people either hate or love it. It’s evident that aerodynamics was the main objective of this design.

Fit and Finish:

Typical Japanese quality – nice job.

Conveniences:

Good. Most everything is standard where the competition leaves several features as options. For example the Metro, by comparison, makes the following features optional: ABS brakes, power door locks, FM radio and cassette, and power windows are not even available.

Cost:

A little pricey even though introduction of this high mileage vehicle couldn’t be better timed considering a doubling of gas prices in the past few months. You do the math and even with the increase in gas cost, you’ll find it takes ten years of driving to recoup the increased cost over a Chevy Metro that gets about 36-42 mpg from a gas only power plant.

And we won’t know what the real cost of this Honda is, until we know more about repair and maintenance of this new high technology power plant. I doubt a total meltdown will result, but there is no history to look back to.

Recommendation: 

Look at the high mileage commuters along with this Gas/Electric option. This would be the ultimate commuter if it were priced better. For example you’d only pay half of the cost of this Honda for the Metro, and as noted above you don’t give up all that much.

The competition:

Chevrolet Metro $9,235-10,600, Hyundai Accent $8,999-9,699, Suzuki Swift $9,099-10,099, Toyota Prius $19,995, Volkswagen Golf $14,900-17,900.

Good News: 

High mileage, smooth ride, handles well, good storage area.

Bad News: 

Pricey, only manual transmission, two seater, I couldn’t verify the gas stats and only got 50 + mpg out of my lead foot, unknown maintenance costs.

Standard Equipment:

1.0-liter 73 horsepower 3-cylinder gas engine with electric motor assist, idle stop feature, 5-speed manual transmission, front disc anti lock brakes, electric power assist steering, dual air bags, anti theft, remote keyless entry, climate control, stereo with cassette, power windows and door locks, power mirrors, rear window wiper/washer.

Gas Stats:

61 City and 70 Highway MPG.

Pricing: 

MSRP:  $20,080.

Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is movello@earthlink.net.

2001 Chevrolet S10 Crew Cab (318)

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2001 Chevrolet S10 Crew Cab (318)

Overview:
This weeks Chevrolet 2001 S10 Crew Cab pickup is something I could find 1000 uses for. Recently I took a trip to Tecate, Mexico for a weekend house-building jaunt with 100 other folks from Pasadena Christian. It was a productive and interesting weekend and I really wanted to take a Crew Cab but the only one out at the time was the Nissan Frontier.

Nissan doesn’t allow their vehicles over the boarder so Chrysler was kind enough to provide a truck for this worthwhile project. It was a “real man’s” truck – the Dodge Ram 2500 V10 magnum. We built two houses there but even though that V10 could pull a house, you could only carry 2-3 people to the job site. I also stopped to fuel up more often than I wanted to. I should have guessed I’d have to spend a fortune on gas when I noticed they didn’t publish gas stats. I calculated about 14 mpg for that trip. Surprisingly this Chevrolet S10 doesn’t do much better, but if you don’t need a 4X4 you’ll do a little better on the fuel consumption. 

Gas prices are destined to continue their climb. The rest of the world pays up to $4.00 per gallon and if that trend infects the U.S., I suspect sales of SUV’s and trucks like this 4X4 will fall sharply. I predict they will begin their sag in the coming year because you’ll start to see advertisements directed at commuters who will begin to buy cars like the Chevy Metro at 36 city and 42 highway mpg or the new Honda Insight Hybrid, which I’ll be talking more about next week. Honda brags 61 city and 70 highway mpg.

No matter what the cost of gas, if you have a need for a truck this is one to consider. Not only do you get the pickup utility you also get the comfort of a passenger car. The short truck bed could be a problem for some, but it is perfect for my needs. I was able to use it to mend some fence at the ranch and we had enough room and comfort to go out on the town after a hard day in the sun.

  

Chevy Xtreme                                             Nissan Frontier Crew Cab

Handling & Performance:

This is a new generation breed of truck that doesn’t require a kidney belt to drive. But because you don’t have the stiff suspension you can tote less than 1200 pounds. Because you get so much comfort, quiet and smoothness of ride you forget you’re in a truck. You’ll also be impressed with the power you get from 190 horsepower V6.

Styling:

Looks much like the Nissan and I like them both. The S10 has a little more conventional look, and the tubular “running board” on the Nissan is useless and only gets in the way in my view.

Fit and Finish:

Commonplace for a car, but extremely good for a truck.

Conveniences:

Car-like features that give you the comfort of a sedan with the convenience of a light duty truck.

Cost:

Not bad considering you get the comfort of a car with utility of a pick up to boot.

Recommendation:

As with anything you buy, it has to have a useful application. It reminds me of the saying, “A bargain is something you buy now and find a use for later”. So it may not be a bargain but if you have need for a light truck that accommodates more than two or three people at the same time, this Crew Cab is great. If you’re a GM fan, finally you can have a true 4-door utility truck from a US manufacturer.

The Competition:

Dodge Dakota $13,910-22,370, Ford Ranger $11,580-19,785, GMC Sonoma $12,763-25,083, Isuzu Hombre $11,360-20,100, Mazda B-Series $11,795-23,840, Nissan Frontier $11,699-24,399, Toyota Tacoma $11,528-24,378.

Good News:

Super utility, comfortable, quiet, roomy front and rear, and moreover I couldn’t come up with much to bitch about.

Bad News:

Lousy gas mileage, especially important at today’s prices, Nissan provides a sunroof and supercharger for about the same money.

Standard Equipment:

4.3 liter V6 190 horsepower engine, 4-speed auto trans., 4 wheel drive, cruise control, power 4-wheel anti lock disc brakes, dual air bags, AM/FM stereo with CD, air conditioning, power windows and locks with remote keyless entry, power mirrors, tilt wheel and daytime running lights.

Gas Stats:

15 City and 18 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP: $24,809.

2000 Corvette Hardtop (317)

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2000 Corvette Hardtop (317)

Overview:
This week I got my heart started and stroked by the Corvette Hardtop. Like special cities of the world this is a special car that is memorable. It is a legend in my lifetime and it continues to renew my love affair with a car I have grown up with. It comes in three flavors: coupe, convertible and the hardtop.

My sister’s friend Chuck, who owns Coast Corvette in Anaheim, has a wonderful nostalgic place to visit your 50’s and 60’s memories. You can visit his site at www.coastcorvette.com. 

Corvette, “how do I love thee, let me count the ways”. I love to handle you as you hug the curves and I fall in love at every turn. I still remember fondly our trip from Denver to Aspen three years ago. With you I was able to climb hills with ease and passing traffic was a breeze. That was fall, and the leaves were changing and I felt the crisp air rushing by from the high Rockies. Your seats hugged me and embellished what was already a beautiful setting. Your 2000 Traction Control System keeps me out of trouble and you’re lots of fun to be with. You’re not a cheap date but relative to the competition you’re a breath of fresh air, even in Los Angeles. And when I’m with you, people of all ages nod their approval. Some even give a thumbs up gesture… I think that’s what they were doing.

Handling & Performance:

Absolutely unbelievable for the average driver, like me. I like to think I’m Rodney Race Driver, but if the Traction Control and Active Handling System weren’t a feature of this car I would have gotten into trouble more than once. The Crest Test (over Angeles Crest Highway to the Ranch) takes on a life all its own in a Vette. Not so bad in a Porsche either, I might add. But in this Corvette, there is so much power reaching optimum speeds is mind-boggling. And around town driving I can bop around shifting from 1st to 4th if I want. Huge disc brakes will let you stop on a dime and give you 9 cents change. Literally one of the shortest stopping distances of any car. The average is 140 feet from 60 to 0 and this Vette does it in only 108 feet.

Styling:

Beautifully sleek comes close enough while at the same time the bustle rear end gives you two views of this lady. The front is flat and low to the ground and looks like it’s moving at light speed while standing still. The rear sits high and wide, much like a racecar and to some it is ugly. I rather like the look.

Fit and Finish:

Pretty usual and as good as I expected.

Conveniences:

Everything you’ll need in the standard package unless you need a CD player and power seats.

Cost:

Perhaps the best buy in the world for performance cars.

Recommendation:

If you are an average driver I suggest you get the 4-speed automatic version unless you simply have a passion for shifting. If you’re in the market for a sports car and you like the look of this Vette, you can’t get a better value for the money. Simply look at what most consider to be competitors of this truly American Icon.

The competition:

Acura NSX $84,000-88,000, Dodge Viper $67,225-69,725, Ferrari 360 Modena $136,425-145,925, Lotus Esprit $85,225, Porsche 911 $65,590-111,000.

Good News:

Great handling with Active Handling System and Traction Control, lots of fun to drive, awesome power 0-60 in a scant 4.0 seconds, an all time great buy, gas mileage is pretty good.

Bad News:

Low profile means entry and exit is uncomfortable, so it will either keep you nimble or cut you to the quick, more Road noise than I remember, Visibility good in front but poor backward.

Standard Equipment:

5.7 liter 345 horsepower V8 engine mated to a 6-speed manual trans, traction control system, power disc brakes, power steering, dual air bags, remote entry, theft deterrent system, power heated mirrors, stereo with cassette, air conditioning, cruise control, leather, power door locks and windows.

Gas Stats:

18 City and 27 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $38,555 and Active Handling System adds $500.

2001 Oldsmobile Intrigue GL Sedan (316)

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2001 Oldsmobile Intrigue GL Sedan (316)

Overview:

This week I revisited Oldsmobile. The Intrigue is a mid-size sedan that is one of those mysteries of history that produced an inanimate object that the world would have a 100-year love affair with. Now in the 21st century the computer may be a close second as a machine that will occupy as much of our time.

Oldsmobile was one of the first cars made and it has stood the test of time. Dad was an Oldsmobile devotee and so I’m biased. If dad put out his hard earned money how bad could they be? Right! Well, the fact is, dad was right, and they continue the tradition of quality cars affordably priced. Dad used to tell me that Olds was the testing ground for Cadillac and so you tended to get a lot of features for the money.

Handling & Performance:

Traction control is one of those miracles of technology that keeps the car going where you steer it. It corrects for over or under steering, which means it keeps the rear end from swinging out and helps the car turn the way you steer, even when it wants to go straight. It is highly recommended. The twin cam V6 engine produces 215 horsepower, which is plenty of power for lead foot drivers like me. I like to feel the road a bit more than this car allows. Steering is a little lose at highway speeds.

Styling:

Sleek clean lines almost distinct in this world of stamped out clones.

Fit and Finish:

Good, but I was a little disappointed with the door panel power window controls. It shook lose from slamming the door so I expect that to be a problem waiting to be an irritation later.

Conveniences:

As dad said, you tend to get a lot of features for the dough.

Cost:

Well priced for a luxury car.

Recommendation:

You have lots to choose from in the lineup below and I have tested all and would be hard pressed to say there was one that stands out way above the others.

The Competition:

Chevrolet Impala $19,149-23,225, Chrysler Concorde $22,510-26,755, Dodge Intrepid $20,645-24,435, Ford Taurus 18,260-21,535, Honda Accord $15,350-24,550, Mitsubishi Galant $17, 557-24,007, Nissan Maxima $21,249-27,149, Subaru Legacy $19,195-24,295, Toyota Camry $17,518-26, 198, Volkswagen Passat $21,200-27,655.

Good News:

Good gas mileage, luxury car feel, roomy interior and trunk and traction control.

Bad News:

Plastic controls on door will be a problem, lose steering at highway speeds,

Standard Equipment:

3.5 liter V6 engine mated to a 4-speed automatic trans, speed sensitive steering, front and rear stabilizer bars, dual air bags, 4-wheel anti lock disc brakes, theft deterrent system, rear door child security locks, child seat anchors, front reclining bucket seats, stereo dimensional sound system with cassette and CD, air conditioning, power windows and door locks, tilt wheel, cruise control, power mirrors, air filtration system, fog lights, split folding rear seat, lighted vanity mirrors, steering wheel radio controls, remote keyless entry, 6-way power driver seat, and traction control.

Gas Stats:

19 City and 28 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $24,150.

2000 Saturn SL2 (315)

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2000 Saturn SL2 (315)

Overview:  

This week we’re looking at the Saturn SL2 4-door sedan. My friend’s son Brent bought a 1999 new last year and as a young man, he has those old feelings. Speed and performance are most important. 124 horsepower just doesn’t get it for him. The 200 hp he’d like comes at a higher price but not all that much more. Equipped fully this Saturn costs enough to be able to move up to a muscle car like the Camaro or Pontiac sports models. I believe that’s where we go wrong sometime in selecting a car. We look at the price and then try to make it something it isn’t meant to be. Brent is now talking about modifying the engine etc. Why not just buy a car already designed for the added horsepower and torque?

When Saturn first came out, it represented a departure from the usual run of the mill car companies. Although spawned by GM, it is autonomous and if they remain true to their mission statement they are “kinder and gentler” car sales people. That is perhaps the most unique feature of this Saturn.

Handling & Performance:

As good as anything in its price and quality range. But if you, like Brent, want more power, go up in class and find a V8 to burn the tires off the car. Otherwise you’ll get frustrated from the performance of this 4-cylinder equipped car.

Styling:

Face it, this is pretty much cookie-cutter styling, but again it wears the Saturn badge because it is meant to be an economy car.

Fit and Finish:

By now, most folks know that the Polymer steel treatment is supposed to make the car finish more dent resistant. I haven’t had anyone tell me it doesn’t work. The rest of the car is put together pretty well, albeit, pretty plastic. But that’s the whole idea of economy so I’m not critical.

Conveniences:

If you buy the base model, you’ll have to live without remote keyless entry, cruise control, ABS brakes and traction control, power windows and mirrors.

Cost:

Equipped the way I’d want it, the price is a little much at about $18 grand.

Recommendation:

This is a good family car worth the look see, plus the low-pressure sales force is a nice change in the buying process. From my testing I’d look at the Neon, Corolla, and Civic for the best comparison. And then all things being equal, I’d add ABS and traction control at the very least.

The competition:

Chevrolet Prizm $13,995-16,060, Dodge Neon $12,640, Ford Focus $12,125-15,260, Honda Civic $10,750-17,545, Hyundai Elantra $11,799, Kia Sephia $10,195-11,795, Suzuki Esteem $12,399-15,699, Toyota Corolla $12,568-13,383.

Good News:

Excellent gas mileage, dent resistant panels, and a good starter family car.

Bad News:

Base price model excludes ABS and traction control, pricey with the options I consider necessary.

Standard Equipment:

1.9 liter 124 horsepower engine, 4-speed auto trans, power steering, power brakes with front disc, dent resistant exterior panels, air conditioning, fold sown rear seats, adjustable steering col., stereo radio, remote trunk and fuel door, dual air bags, daytime running lamps, child proof rear locks.

Gas Stats:

25 City and 36 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP  $13,755.

Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is movello@earthlink.net .

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Copyright © 2000 – Automotive Love Affair

2000 Buick Century Limited Sedan (313)

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2000 Buick Century Limited Sedan (313)

Overview:

This 2000 Buick Century Limited Sedan is the car of choice of lots of older drivers. That has been true for many years. When I was a kid, only old folks drove Buick cars except for one younger guy I knew who also rode a Harley motorcycle. What a contrast, eh? Roy was also a musician and rather different for lots of reasons.

Something that always comes to mind when I think of Buick cars is that they used to put the letters B – U – I – C – K on the radio buttons and Roy pulled the buttons off and put them in order to spell C – I – K – U – B. When the girls would ask what that meant he’d answer Can I Kiss You Baby. I wonder what ever happened to Roy.

Well, today you’re beginning to see a younger set buying Buick because the image has changed and it’s not the “Boat” it used to be, even if it still rides like one at times. This is a great car for the young exec that’s on his or her way up.

Handling & Performance:

Surprisingly fast and comfortably smooth. But then with a smooth ride, you give up “road feel” and “stability” in the curves. The power steering is too loose for my taste on the highway because it causes a deadening of road feel. And although it’s comfortable, that old Buick ride brought about the saying that it rides like a boat. You know, that up and down motion like your shocks are real bad.

Styling:

Clean lines and nothing like the Buick “old man O’dell” used to drive in my youth. That Roadmaster (some called it a Road Hog) was big and bulky. Remember, the front fender hole facades that must have been designed to make it look racy, I guess.

Fit and Finish:

Nice. Good old American ingenuity comes to play here. For the money we simply do a better job.

Conveniences:

The way this car comes standard is just fine, but if you want to add a power seat for the passenger and have CD and Cassette players, leather seating, cruise control, steering wheel controls for the radio, split folding rear seat, a Special Edition appearance and a few other goodies, you can add $2,608 to the MSRP below.

Cost:

It doesn’t get any better. This is a standout car for the money.

Recommendation:

I would test-drive this Buick, the Toyota Camry and the Nissan Maxima first because this is a long list to get through. It is just right for the young executive who needs to balance price with family needs while providing a good business appearance. Buick has it all.

The Competition:

Chevrolet Malibu $16,535-19,215, Ford Taurus $18,260-21,535, Honda Accord $15,350-24,550, Mazda 626 $18,515-22,715, Mercury Sable $19,035-21,435, Mitsubishi Galant $17,557-24,007, Nissan Maxima $21-049-26,249, Oldsmobile Intrigue $22,210-25,840, Pontiac Grand Prix $19,935-24,610, Subaru Legacy $19,195-24,295, Toyota Camry $17,518-26,198, Volkswagen Passat $21,200-27,655.

Good News:

Bob Barker says The Price is Right. I agree where this care is concerned. It is perhaps the best-priced car out there for the quiet luxury car ride and appointments you get. Good gas mileage, large trunk, roomy seating area and fast.

Bad News:

Spongy ride like riding on a waterbed, over active power steering at highway speeds that causes loss of road feel.

Styling:

3.1 liter 175 horsepower V6 engine, 4-speed elect., transmission, dual air bags with driver side bag, power ABS brakes, theft deterrent system, traction control, power steering, tilt wheel, air conditioning and filtration, dual power and heated mirrors, power windows and door locks, AM/FM radio, 6-way power driver seat, remote trunk release, theatre lighting.

Gas Stats:

20 City and 30 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $21,975.

2000 Kia Spectra GSX (312)

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2000 Kia Spectra GSX (312)

Overview:

This week I went once again “back to basics” in a Kia Spectra GSX. Is it back to the future? Is the world changing in the sense that simple is better? Will we find the cost of living pushes us to buy transportation that provides enough and spend the rest of our money on, say food and shelter or our kids college education. Yep, I agree that we should let the kids fend for themselves in this “ME” generation.

Well, there is no question the price says basic, but you know what, this Kia from Korea is a pretty sound car. Is it enough? Yes, I think so. It is roomy and comfortable and you’re going to be surprised, just like I was. And although I was  favorably impressed, I did have some concerns. Little things like the windows sticking a bit that indicated a poor fit and it made a clunking sound when it sealed shut all the way. There was also a wiring harness hanging on my foot just over the brake pedal. Nit picking, you say? No, and I’m not making a big deal about those but they are simple warning signs that attention to detail may be a problem later on in ownership. But then, the price – what do you expect. Well, a dear friend has a Toyota Corolla SE that I think is a notch above this Kia, but they have had more time to fine tune their product and I believe the Koreans will do the same in time. The Toyota is similarly priced and should be looked at closely in your comparison shopping.

Handling & Performance:  

Really good. This car will flat impress you in most areas. It was a little sluggish off the line, but I’d rather have the automatic and lose a little on the “jack rabbit” starts.

Styling:

What else can you say except “conformity”. There isn’t much creative genius out there any more. All cars look like cloned cousins. It used to be you could tell one from the other but the differences are becoming a blur these days. But then what are cars for, transportation or making a statement? I have my own ideas on that one but you can answer it better than I can.

Fit and Finish:  

Pretty darn good.

Conveniences:

Enough, already.

Cost:

I like it and now with the competition you can get a very respectable car at a price most folks can afford. Put a Toyota badge on this car and you have the image of greater quality. Put a BMW badge on it and it will instantly have snob appeal. Put a Ferrari badge on it and I’m in love again.

Recommendation:

Go for a test drive and you’ll definitely be pleasantly surprised. But it is no surprise that the line up of competition is impressive too. I’ve tested all except the Ford Focus and would like your comments on that car. e-mail me.

The competition:

Chevrolet Prizm $13,960-16,010, Daewoo Nubira $10,900-14,160, Dodge Neon  $12,640, Ford Focus $12,125-15,260, Honda Civic $10,750-17,545, Hyundai Elantra $11,799, Mitsubishi Mirage $11,877-14,717, Nissan Sentra $11,649-14,899, Saturn SL $10,685-12,895, Suzuki Esteem Wagon $13,399-16,399, Toyota Corolla $12,568-13,383.

Good News:

The price is extremely good. The gas mileage has to be a plus with the price of gas and the expectation that it will not ever be as good as in the past.

Bad News:

Some quality issues. Short company history here in America.

Standard Equipment:

1.8 liter 4 cyl engine, 4-speed automatic trans, power steering, power front disc and rear drum brakes, dual airbags, cloth seats, split folding rear seat, power mirrors, AM/FM with cassette, air conditioning, power window and door locks, tilt steering, alloy wheels.

Gas Stats:

22 City and 32 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP  $12,995. Options on this model included 4-speed auto trans, CD player, Cruise control and rear wiper for an added $1834.00.

Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is joe@atthewheel.com

2000 Isuzu Trooper SUV (311)

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2000 Isuzu Trooper SUV (311)

Overview:
This weeks ride is a Trooper from Isuzu and albeit yet another SUV it is pretty respectable. It reminds me of the Land Rover, especially with its high center of gravity look and feel. The rear door is unique in this category of sport utility in that it has “swing out” doors. The two rear doors are split about 70 and 30 and although the design is different and may find acceptance by some, in the final analysis all they are is different and not better. I don’t expect they will be all the rage.

This model is equipped with the largest sunroof you’ll find anywhere. The cloth seats are comfortable and I especially like the Captains chairs in the front. The 60/40 split rear seat is convenient too. It is large inside and will seat 5 comfortably with lots of storage space in the rear. It is the flagship of the SUV line for Isuzu so it has nice features like a screen cover over the cargo area and lots of nooks and cranny’s to store stuff.

Handling & Performance:  High center of gravity gave me the Heebie Jeebies in the turns. Not unlike most of the SUV’s out there. Lots of power in the V6 215 horsepower engine.

Styling: Cookie cutter, but I don’t like the Spare mounted on the back or the Hard Plastic cover idea. For one, it was a constant obstructive irritation for the rear view. Second, the design of the swinging doors with all that weight looks like it will brake something or at best be a noise annoyance sooner or later.

Fit and Finish: Very nicely done except where they chose the placement of the Radio and Climate control. It’s a reach and it would have been better to put the Air controls on the bottom since you usually set it and forget it.

Conveniences: 

All the features you’d expect from an upscale SUV.

Cost: 

Range is $26,950 – $34,698 and about what I’d expect.

Recommendation: The competition is awesome and Isuzu has obvious problems in capturing much market away from this lineup.

The competition:

Acura SLX $36,300, Jeep Grand Cherokee $26,895-34,635, Land Rover Discovery $33,350-34,150, Lexus RX 300 $33,005-34,605, Mercedes M class $35,300-64,900.

Good News:   

It has everything you want from an SUV, comfort, clean lines, powerful.  

Bad News:   

Usual bad gas mileage for SUV’s, swing out doors bound to be a problem.

Standard Equipment:  

3.5 liter V6 215 horsepower engine, 4-speed automatic transmission with power and winter modes, dual air bags, 8-way power driver and 4-way passenger seat controls, antilock brakes, air conditioning, power windows and door locks, tilt steering wheel, cruise control, stereo with cassette and CD, sunroof.

Gas Stats:

15 City and 19 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP  $32,698.

Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is joe@atthewheel.com

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