Tag Archives: 1999

1999 Volkswagen EuroVan MV (230)

20-01-1999Autolove No comments

Overview:

Well getting into this VW Euro Van MV was a bit of a disappointment after all the good things I heard around the industry. You know, like when people say go see this movie, and it stinks. Don’t get me wrong, this van doesn’t stink, and there were only a few disappointments we’ll touch on later. The most obvious difference from Vans of old is the power you get from the new 140-horsepower, 2.8-liter six-cylinder VR6 engine.

In the 1970s I had an older Dodge window van with a big V8. What else from an American automaker, right! What a boat that was. Anyway I was reminded of it as I stepped on the gas in this VW and it actually responded. But it was also smooth and quiet. That old Dodge was a real piece of work – a classic example of Brute muscle and no class. The VW vans of old, on the other hand, had a lot of personality and but absolutely no “GO”. Remember?

I haven’t reviewed many “Camper” style vans, which is what this really is and one of the three trims in fact “is” the classic camper version. Remember the hippie days of the 1960s and the multi colored mural or simply rusty looking VW vans? They were really “In” in those days and probably more because they were V-dub’s. It became a symbol of rebellion and anti-establishment sentiment of the day. It was the beginning of the breakaway from traditional American cars. But like the bug, it too could hardly get out of its own way.

I had mixed emotions about the rear passenger area and seats that face each other. But the difference is, of course, a result of the Camper origin of this van, and has some real advantages. I think mom’s and dad’s will appreciate the layout and the inclusion of a folding table and florescent lighting over it. That will give the kids more to do than kick each other and make faces and all that stuff kids do. The rear storage space is good, and because of the high profile of the Euro Van (about 8 inches taller than the Dodge Caravan and Grand Caravan), you can haul tall things. Something else you can do in this EuroVan MV you can’t in other minivans, is sleep. The rearmost bench seat opens flat to meet a pad in the back cargo area that together forms a cushioned flat expanse from the back of the front seatbacks to the tailgate. They even come with curtains that just snap over the windows for privacy.

I found getting in and out a bit difficult and I tired of that quickly. It was like getting up into one of those U-Haul trucks when you decide to move and “do-it-yourself”. But in that situation you get to take those back to U-Haul who still own ‘em. Another negative is there’s only one side door, on the passenger side, and it slides manually. Stylish American and Japanese vans are much more convenient by contrast and thus this complaint is very real. While most Euro Van buyers will miss the dual sliding side doors and the power-operated options that aren’t available, VW lovers will embrace this van for other reasons. It’s European. It’s quality built. It looks different from other competitors, and that alone will be reason enough for some to buy it.

Although I like Euro Van’s newfound power, handling is quite another matter. Unlike the low slung competitive vans, the high profile Euro Van takes corners in a “Tipsy” sort of way. That will be a little unsettling for those with a heavy foot and little respect for curvy roads. When it comes to dips the suspension reacts like a tugboat in high seas – stable but rolling motion nontheless. I haven’t been on the bounding mane in a while and rather like the motion anyway. So if you don’t get seasick the ride probably won’t bother you either.

I’ve driven all the competition except the Pontiac Montana and Ford’s Windstar but for the dough Honda Odyssey edges out the others.

The Competition:

Chevrolet Venture $20- $23, Chrysler Town & Country $27 – $36K, Dodge Caravan $18 – $31, Ford Windstar $18- $30K, Honda Odyssey $23 – $25K, Mercury Villager $22 – $25K, Nissan Quest $22 – $26K, Oldsmobile Silhouette $24 – $31K, Plymouth Voyager $18 – $22K, Pontiac Montana $21 – $23K, Toyota Sienna $21 – $26K.

Good News:

European quality workmanship, powerful, roomy, camper like convenience.

Bad News:

Floats over dips, stepladder entry, poor gas economy, one manual sliding side door, boxy styling.

Standard Equipment:

2.8-liter 140-horsepower VR6 engine, front wheel drive, 4-speed automatic trans, independent suspension, power rack and pinion steering, alloy wheels, 4-wheel anti-lock brakes, dual airbags, traction control, child safety locks, Climate control, cruise control, heated power mirrors, intermittent wipers, rear window wiper / washer, power windows and door locks, and an AM/FM stereo cassette, folding table with fluorescent light over the passenger area, snap-on curtains

Gas Stats:

15 City and 20 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $31 – $34K.

1999 VW Beetle (229)

13-01-1999Autolove No comments

Overview:

Car enthusiasts couldn’t wait for the return of the VW Beetle and now it’s here complete with a vaaase for a flower. Unique? Sure. A VW? Not really. It kind of looks like one, but that’s where the story ends. It sets on the same chassis as the Golf, has an in-line 4-cylinder 2.0 liter 115 horsepower engine supplying more than adequate power.

Later in 1999 they will even offer a 1.8-liter turbocharged 150 horsepower engine for those who like to fly. That will be the same engine that now powers the PASSAT GLS. There are so many departures from the original concept of the VW Bug that it is a “bridge too far”. It really is a totally different car. Hey, it even has trunk space right where you’d expect it to be, in the rear. It is also very comfortable unlike the original Beetles of old that were simply bare bones putt putts. Remember how the whole car would shudder when you let out the clutch? The engine roared but performed like a pussycat. Remember the gravity feed heater that never worked? Anyway, among other differences this new release is quiet, doesn’t shake rattle or roll, handles and feels like a bigger car, and the heater – it even works. The dome light is missing from the high ceiling that is reminiscent and even higher than the original version, and unlike the original plain wrap, the new embellished version sports an interior that is almost luxurious. The dash lights are a blue/purple color with a splash of red for some of the indicators. I like it. It adds a touch of class…very pretty.

In spit of all the embellishments, it’s an experience that’s anything but elegant. It’s like a toy. It’s cutesy, a bit clumsy, and a little cludgey. It’s like Herbie is a nerd. It draws attention, but I fear it’s more because it’s a bit of a freak rather than because it’s good looking or desirable. When I was in college driving a Bug, they didn’t win any beauty contests either. It was ugly by comparison to the cars of the day. Perhaps it will grow on me, as did the four V-dubs I’ve owned over the years.

As you probably know, the Volkswagen Beetle was introduced in America in the late fifties and much like other cars from Europe and the rest of the world, practical was more important than the glitz so popular in the U.S. After all Americans had practical up to their ears with the Ford Model A that was mass-produced so everyone could own one. In fact Ford wrote the book on “plain wrap”, and the term “basic black” must have come from the fact that the Ford Model A only came in black. At least the VW came in a few other colors.

Well, I needed basic as a newly married struggling college student. And because the perception of “basic” was firmly implanted in my pea brain, I guess I expected VW’s re-emerging Bug to be more similar in that it would be more basic. But “different” is what we got in this radical departure from the concept of what drew me and lots of other young and / or poor people, to the Beetle, back then. It was popular because it was cheap to own and operate, relative to American cars of that postwar time. VW was the antithesis of the opulent, oversized sleds coming out of Detroit. They were right in what people wanted but not what they needed. VW proved Detroit wrong and the years that followed saw the proliferation of smaller cars. So much so, it forced American to downsize. Funny, today that word means you’re fired. Anyway, the fad and fashion, for once, was practical and fit the pocketbook to boot. Had Hollywood and GI Joe American’s totally lost their grip?

Well, here are a few more differences I noticed from the original Bugs. Because it is more car-like and has the power you need on the highways today, you can keep up with or pass traffic. If they don’t move, the horn even sounds like a horn. I almost never use the horn, but just had to see if it sounded different. Driving this new Beetle necessarily took me back in time and I recalled the 1960’s when we had a Karman Ghia (different shape, but still a VW) and we’d drive to Las Vegas often to visit friends. Miles of traffic would pass us going uphill and then I’d floor it and pass all of them going downhill. I must have felt it necessary to keep up, but it was a bit risky because if a puff of wind came up you’d likely get blown off the road. No kidding, those V-dubs were really light. The fact that this VW is more substantial was very noticeable.

Ok, so it’s a nice car but I couldn’t shake the feeling I was in a bumper car reminiscent of those you find at amusement parks like the Long Beach Pike. I know what a little kid senses, looking up at a grown up world. Remember Laugh-Ins’ Lilly Tomlin who portrayed a little girl with freckles and pigtails sitting on that oversized rocking chair. That’s what I mean. Michael Jordan would fit fine in this Bug, but he too may feel the posts hinder visibility a bit. I got the feeling of sitting a little too low but that’s what gives it stability even at higher speeds. It’s like VW got older but it still hadn’t grown up, completely. Yep, it’s like no VW you’ve ever driven. And by any measure VW has, and continues to be one of the most talked about cars in the world. Perhaps the new Beetle has drawn a lot of attention because there are too many boring cars these days. Are we too serious about our cars? Are we starved for fun in the cars we drive? Is that why there has been such a revival of the rods of the 1950’s and anxious waiting for the New Beetle. People want something different. Well this Beetle is different. In fact, when I stand in front of it, I half expect it to start talking to me in some animated way.

The very fact that the industry lists competition for the VW Beetle speaks volumes about the departure from the old Bug where there was no noticeable competition in the 1950s and early 1960s. It was simply in a class all by itself.

The Competition:

Chevrolet Cavalier $11,871 – $19,571, Dodge Neon $11,620 – $13,585, Ford Escort $11,455 – $13,290, Honda Civic $10,650 – $16,730, Mazda Protege $11,970 – $14,925, Nissan Altima $14,990 – $19,990, Subaru Impreza $15,895 – $19,195, Toyota Corolla $12,218 – $14,868.

Good News:

Pricing is fair for the quality. Responsive and fun to zip around in. Good road handling.

Bad News:

Departs from the super economy car class. Some visibility blind spots.

Standard Equipment:

2.0 liter engine, 4-wheel disc brakes, power rack and pinion steering, front engine/front drive, front and side airbags, power mirrors, tilt and teli steering wheel, stereo with 6 speakers, air conditioning, leatherette interior and power door locks with remote control.

Gas Stats:

22 City and 27 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $15,200, and the model I tested had Cruise Control and Power Windows for $470, Sport Package / Alloy wheels and fog lights for $410, Anti-lock brakes for $300 and 4-speed automatic Trans for $875 for a total of 17,755 after destination charges.

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

1999 Honda Odyssey EX (227)

23-12-1998Autolove No comments

Overview:
I like the styling on this Honda Odyssey so went in with a positive attitude and it only got better from there. Honda is one of the last major manufacturers in the American auto market to offer a minivan. They introduced the original Odyssey in 1995 and it is still based on the Accord platform. They claim it has a larger interior volume than the popular Chrysler line because the floor is one and a half inches lower. I can’t verify that claim but the difference has to be small. It’s an all-new design for 1999 and boasts the largest engine in its class as well. I like to see innovation so I liked how the third seat uniquely folds completely into the floor.

I have to admit, I have a bit of a bias when it comes to family vehicles like this Odyssey, and I think family is first for most of us. I remember in the ‘old’ days when our kids were small, we had a Chevrolet station wagon. It served us well, but I am reminded that “timing is everything”, and if only they had minivans back then. They are so easy to get in and out of, and for the little kids that is especially handy. And because of the automatic “dual” sliding doors that are standard, it makes life even easier for mom and dad. Yes, by the way, they did have vans in the ‘good old days’, but they weren’t the same. And if you did opt for a van, to close the single sliding door on the driver’s side, you’d have to slam it shut. Remember how you’d open the door all the way so you’d have lots of momentum. After a few tries, a few missing fingers and lots of noise like a roller coaster you were ready to go. Wait dad, I have to go to the bathroom. I’m not going through that again Mike’y, hold it ‘till we get to camp!

Well, you can buy this new Odyssey in two trims: LX for mom and EX for dad. Both come without bathroom’s Mike’y. I tested the EX and found it to be nearly a sister car to Sienna from Toyota. But it is truly impossible to put any one above the other. Those listed here are all worthy competitors. I like the dual power sliding doors that are standard on the Odyssey EX, but you pay for what you get. There ain’t no free lunch. And although I usually have a favorite, in this case the race is too close to call a winner. But I suspect I’d lean toward the Toyota Sienna, Olds Silhouette or this Honda Odyssey. Test-drive them all if you’re in the market for a minivan and call me to compare notes. Happy hunting.

The competition:

Chevrolet Venture $20,745 – $23,045, Chrysler Town & Country $27,385 – $36,140, Dodge Caravan $18,005 – $31,510, Ford Windstar $18,375 – $30,415, Mercury Villager $22,415 – $25,015, Nissan Quest $22,159 – $26,299, Oldsmobile Silhouette $24,410 – $31,000, Plymouth Voyager $18,005 – $22,875, Pontiac Montana $21,270 – $23,875, Toyota Sienna $21,428 – $26,494.

Good News:

Comfort, power, convenience, great styling.

Bad News:

Pitted against the SUV market, it lacks the benefit of 4-wheel drive if you feel you need that. 75% will say no, not needed.

Standard Equipment:

3.5 liter 210 horsepower V-6 engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, dual airbags, anti-lock brake system, child-safety locks and traction control (EX only), front and rear air conditioning, power windows and door locks, a tilt steering wheel, cruise control, rear window defroster, and an AM/FM stereo with cassette. The EX model that I tested adds automatic climate control, an upgraded stereo with CD player, power dual sliding doors, a power driver’s seat and 16-inch alloy wheels.

Gas Stats:

18 City and 26 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $23,000 – $25,800

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

1999 Toyota Camry Solara SE V6 (224)

30-11-1998Autolove No comments

Overview:

Toyota Camry, until now, did not offer a Coupe in the line. With the introduction of the Solara for 1999 they fill that void. I’m not sure it needed filling, but they probably know more about the demand for this class car. As a kid, just driving (way back when) the hot thing was two door cars for the youth of the day, but it had to be without the “post” between the windows. Some referred to it as a “hardtop convertible” as I recall. Perhaps someone will correct me on that. Well this Solara has the post and the rear windows don’t roll down. It is built on the same platform as other Camay’s, but its stiffer body structure, tighter steering and firmer suspension are designed for a sportier feel than the sedan. They have accomplished their goal and I loved driving this car for a few reasons. I love the way it handles. It is responsive (V6) and the solid ride gives the feeling of control of the road. Another reason I like it is the great styling. If you like the design as much as I do (a lot), you can thank the Calty Design Center in Newport Beach, CA. The Solara is truly a keeper.

The Solara will be assembled in Ontario, Canada and will only be sold in North America. It comes in two trims: SE and SLE. The SE comes standard with a 2.2-liter 135-horsepower engine, but the model I tested had the V6 option which is 3.0-liters and a more than adequate 200-horsepower. I was impressed. The V6 is standard on the SLE. Solara is classified as a compact, but it is a big compact.

On the other hand, this is a basic car with few frills. Most of the frills it does have are pretty basic, like the manual seat and manual air conditioning controls. If you’re looking for computer stuff and auto everything, this isn’t it. It is a lovely car and Camry has always been a top seller for Toyota so a lot of folks usually aren’t wrong.

Although it is basic, it has a classy feel about it and I’ve tested all the competition listed here and I have to tell you I warmed up to driving this Solara very quickly. All things considered, it is definitely a must drive car in this class and price range.

The competition:
Acura CL $23,100 – $26,150, BMW 3-Series $23,300 – $41,500, Buick Regal $21,695 – $24,395, Chevrolet Monte Carlo $18,510 – $20,535, Chrysler Sebring $17,225 – $26,285, Honda Accord $15,200 – $24,300, Pontiac Grand Prix $19,415 – $23,910.

Good News:
Priced well, handles extremely well, powerful, roomy – both front and back seats and the trunk. Perhaps best of all – it’s a Toyota that has been known for being a quality product.

Bad News:
Tough entry / exit for rear seat (but you should expect that of a 2-door coupe).

Standard Equipment:
3.0 liter 200 horsepower V6 engine (standard for the SE is a 2.2 liter inline 4 – 135 hp engine) with front wheel drive, 4-speed auto trans, power rack & pinion steering, 4-wheel independent suspension, power anti-lock disc brakes, dual air bags, auto on/off lights, fog lights, power mirrors, power windows & door locks, air, cruise control, stereo with cassette.

Gas Stats:
20 City and 28 Highway MPG.

Pricing:
MSRP $21,988.

Your comments are welcomed. E-mail joe@atthewheel.com

1999 Toyota Sienna LE (221)

06-11-1998Autolove No comments

Overview:
This class of van still has a lot to offer to the family. Toyota’s Sienna is really a very nice car. Daughter Jenny says this is her dream car. Getting her two kids in and out of a regular passenger car is exhausting at best. Pull the seat back forward, bend over to get the car seat locked into the rear safety belt, etc. Well, you get the picture. So why not simplify our lives if we can. In today’s world the $24K MSRP is pretty darn good. And here are just a few reasons why the Sienna makes a great family car. The wide sliding doors of the mini van and the low threshold is an easy step into configuration. Contrasted with the very popular SUV’s, this Sienna will make it easy for the little people get in and out. In addition to being great for little people, Sienna comfortably seats seven tall adults. It also has flexible, removable modular seating that provides for a variety of cargo needs. We’ve tended to overlook the van with all the interest in SUV’s. You really need to test one if you’re considering an SUV.

Sienna is based on the very popular Camry platform, and is in fact built on the very same assembly line in Georgetown, Kentucky. It also shares the Camry’s powerful V6 engine and front wheel drive. It comes with a generous list of features including three rows of seats and an optional sliding rear door on the driver’s side. It is roomy and for me is a reminder of the homey feeling of my RV. The Sienna is a replacement for Previa and comes in four trims: CE 3-Door; CE, LE and XLE 4-Door. With a base Retail Price Range of $21,428 – $26,494, Jenny, you might just be able to afford one. She’d also be interested to know Sienna also provides an optional integrated Child Restraint System (CRS) that is new this year.

Generally I feel the handling is good but I noticed more body sway in turns than I like. Another noticable glitch is that the brake pedal feels mushy, but it didn’t affect stopping distance and soon I got accoustomed to the feel and it ceased to bother me.

The competition:
Chevrolet Venture $20,745 – $23,045, Chrysler Town & Country $27,385 – $36,140, Dodge Caravan $18,005 – $31,510, Ford Windstar $18,375 – $30,415, Honda Odyssey $23,000 – $25,800, Nissan Quest $22,159 – $26,299, Oldsmobile Silhouette $24,410 – $31,000, Plymouth Voyager $18,005 – $22,875, Pontiac Montana $21,075 – $23,875, Volkswagen EuroVan $ Unknown.

Good News:
Easy to step in and out of, another solid Toyota, Roomy, carlike – easy to manuver.

Bad News:
Ride could be a little stiffer.

Standard Equipment:
3.0 liter engine with 4-speed auto trans, rack & pinion steering, front disc and rear drum anti-lock brakes, dual air bags, cloth 7-passenger seating, power windows, mirrors, door locks, stereo with cassette, cruise control and tilt wheel.

Gas Stats:
18 City and 24 Highway MPG.

Pricing:
MSRP $24,358 and the LE I tested topped out at $27,489.

Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is joe@atthewheel.com and you can see unedited versions of these reviews at www.atthewheel.com.

1999 Toyota 4Runner SR5 4X4 (220)

29-10-1998Autolove No comments

Overview:

This weeks Toyota 4Runner is not the truck it used to be, but few things are. I realize that every time I look in the mirror or step on the scale. In any case, I have had difficulty in the past seeing it as a true Sport Utility Vehicle, at least SUV’s designed in that new and growing class. The reason is that this 4Runner used to be, as you may recall, little more than a pick up truck with a camper shell. Since 1995 it has continued to mature into a full on sport utility like the one I had the pleasure of testing. It has lots more power than in the past and likewise sucks up a lot more gas to move the added mass of metal. I must admit I was skeptical and even avoided testing it because of the bias I suffered from. I’m glad I was compelled to try it out. Overall, I was impressed. Certainly as impressed as with any of the competition. But I must also state again that I really object to the gas guzzling nature of these utilities. Can’t they improve the mileage on these sleds?

On the scene, however, we are beginning to see a revival of the mini-van. I believe this re-immerging vehicle will cut into the SUV market in a big way. I think manufacturers are aware of the movement in that direction and that’s why we’re seeing some dramatic and nice changes in the mini-van design. They are sleek, futuristic and powerful. And even though men are inclined toward the “macho” SUV, mom is more likely to opt for the mini-van that is easier to get in and out of, more comfortable and generally more practical. The dual sliding doors are great for kids and shopping trips and she instinctively knows she’ll never want to go off-roading. Unless she’s one of those “babe-watch” lifeguards. More important to the manufacturer is the fact that mom’s have a great deal to do with the car their family “NEEDS”. Meanwhile, back at the ranch, we see dad lobbying for a “macho man” SUV with on-demand 4-wheel drive that will climb over boulders he will never, ever need to experience. In fact, it is estimated that only about 25% of SUV’s are ever used off road. I saw lots of them in the eastern part of the U.S. and they are also big in remote areas where higher road clearance is needed.

The 1999 Toyota 4Runner is available in six trims: 4Runner (base), SR5, and Limited each in 2WD or 4WD. The base comes with a 2.7-liter 150-horsepower 4-cylinder engine, while SR5 and Limited trims get a 3.4-liter 183-horsepower V6. The SR5 upgrades with an intermittent rear wiper, tilt steering wheel, cruise control, privacy glass, chrome bumpers and power mirrors and door locks. The Limited adds to this a leather interior, power windows, air conditioning, cruise control, an anti-theft device, a premium stereo system with CD player, and 16-inch alloy wheels.

Toyota says the majority will buy the V6 with 4-speed automatic transmission but the manual is offered for most 4Runner models.

I’ve tested all of the competition and have to admit this 4Runner has arrived and fits well into the crowded array of Sport Utilities so popular with car buyers in the 1990’s. It is obvious they will continue to occupy a large part of the car market even into the new millennium, if from nothing more than the momentum built up over the past couple of decades.

The competition:
Chevrolet Blazer $18,470 – $32,670, Dodge Durango $25,955 – $27,955, Ford Explorer $20,065 – $34,540, GMC Jimmy $18,534 – $30,970, Honda Passport $22,700 – $28,950, Isuzu Rodeo $17,995 – $27,910, Jeep Grand Cherokee $25,800 – $33,995, Land Rover Discovery $34,150, Mitsubishi Montero Sport $18,310 – $32,630, Oldsmobile Bravada $31,043.

Good News:
Toyota quality, comfortable ride, roomy.

Bad News:
Stepladder entry, poor fuel economy, off-road capability cost that seldom is used.

Standard Equipment:
3.4 liter V6 engine, 4-speed auto trans, 2-speed transfer case, coil spring dbl wishbone indep. front suspension, power rack & pinion steering, power front disc/rear drum antilock brakes, dual air bags, cloths bucket seats, split folding rear seat, stereo w/ cassette, power door locks & rear window, tilt wheel, cruise control, power mirrors.

Gas Stats:
17 City and 20 Highway MPG.

Pricing:
MSRP $27,368.

Your comments are welcomed. E-mail joe@atthewheel.com View unedited reviews at www.las.net/atthewheel.

1999 Mazda Miata MX-5 (215)

30-09-1998Autolove No comments

Overview:

This 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is available in a single trim so it simplifies your decision making. And if you simply must have a sports car that’s basic, with simple everything, you can find it here. It is truly a fun car to drive and has adequate power.

The top is easy to put down when the mood moves you, but you’ll have to wait until you stop and get out to put it back up since there’s no way for the average \”non-jock\” to do it while sitting in the car.

History: The Miata was introduced in the summer of 1989 and it captured the hearts of driving enthusiasts longing for the days of the classic British roadster. Remember the MGB, Austin Healey etc.? They were so popular dealers routinely charged, and people willingly paid, thousands over the suggested retail price for this little roadster. The 1998 model year was skipped completely, with the new 1999 model went on sale in March.

Many years ago I owned an MG and loved the way you can zip around and I thoroughly enjoy the handling capabilities of sports cars. Some of the shortcomings of the older roadsters have been eliminated in cars like this Miata, but there are some complaints that can’t go unmentioned. I want to know why they put the power outlet/ lighter right smack in front of the gear shifter? Doesn’t anyone test-drive these things for such obvious irritations? If they do it is certain they haven’t plugged in a cell phone. Is that possible? Another bitch is the placement of the latch on the center console storage compartment. It is poorly placed at the rear, which makes it hard to open. There is also a lot of road noise that I feel should have improved with the increase in cost.

When you review what is considered competition for the Miata I think you’ll find too great a difference in all except perhaps the Cavalier and the VW. I believe the Eclipse is a step up even though the price doesn’t reflect that fact. The Porsche Boxster and the Mercedes SLK are light years ahead and if the extra money isn’t too painful to part a test drive will help you open your wallet a little wider. The BMW Z3 is over priced, as is the Miata.

I’ve driven them all and suggest you do the same before you make your decision.

The Competition:

BMW Z3 $29,425 – $35,900, Chevrolet Cavalier $11,871 – $19,571, Mercedes-Benz SLK $40,000, Mitsubishi Eclipse $15,740 – $26,660, Porsche Boxster $41,000, Volkswagen Cabrio $17,975 – $22,290.

Good News:

Top is easy to put down. Fun to drive.

Bad News:

Tinny sounding doors. Trunk is also a clanging cymbal. Poor placement of power outlet & console access release. A lot of road noise. Pricey.

Standard Equipment:

1.8 liter 4 cylinder, 140 HP engine, 5-speed manual trans with overdrive, rack & pinion steering, cloth bucket seats, AM/Fm CD stereo, independent suspension, dual air bags, glass rear window in convertible top, remote fuel & trunk releases, 4- wheel power disc brakes & dual mirrors. Note: A 4-speed automatic transmission is available.

Gas Stats:

25 City 29 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP is $19,770 but if you want Air, leather, alloy wheels, cruise control, upgraded premium Bose stereo system with cassette, power – steering, mirrors, windows, antenna & door locks – you’ll have to up the ante to $25K.

1999 Plymouth Prowler (204)

16-07-1998Autolove No comments

Overview:

It doesn’t matter what your age; you have to love this Plymouth Prowler, now in its second year of production. Just when I thought cars were getting boring, Chrysler makes a statement that a major manufacturer can build exciting cars. This Prowler will capture your imagination. The movie LA Story came to mind for me, and especially the scene where Steve Martin is in a Santa Barbara hotel with a much too young friend and has the occasion to exclaim “I’m young”! In fact what you’ll notice driving this Prowler is that little kids will be especially attracted to this car more than any you’ve driven. Son Mike told me why. Dad, dah! They like it because it looks like the “hot wheels” colorful little model cars they play with. Easy for him to know. But once he said it I knew instantly Chrysler’s idea of making the first ever production hot rod is genius. Even the air bags are “next generation”. For the little kids their tiny car’s come alive and I have to tell you, their smiles are worth the price of admission. I was driving by the Old Town Pasadena Weekly office one day and a little boy in his Karate robe with mom and sister said it all – “cool car”.

Well if you haven’t noticed, I just love this car. I tell everyone it is in the top five of the best ever cars I’ve driven. How do I love this car? Let me count the ways.

It’s yellow. No, really. They couldn’t have picked a better color. My daughter’s neighbor, Hans from Sweden said, “ya that is really yellow. It voke me yup ven you drove into the drive vay.” Hans is cool too.

The design is a mix of nostalgic ’30s Ford Roadster and space age technology. They put in some obvious high tech stuff like the stunning molded instrument cluster on the dash but also threw in subtle touches like the tachometer that is conspicuously mounted on the steering column like you bought it at Trak Auto and put it there yourself. Even the wire shows. Really, Chrysler designers at Pacifica (just north of San Diego, CA) deserve a raise for this one. And they probably would have gotten one if they had figured a way to include some trunk space. You’ll crack up when you see the trunk. Just stop an owner and ask them to see the trunk. Really, I’m serious; it’s ok to do that. I was in a Chevron gas station in La Canada and this guy made a U-turn, parked the car and came over to me and started asking questions, like “how did you ever get one of these? I’ve been trying to buy one and can’t find one under $70,000”. Say what! I know V-dubs are going for at least $5K over window, but read my lips, the car has an MSRP of less than $40K. It’s errie, like you can hear a voice out of the blue whispering, “build it and they will come”.

The engine? It’s perfect for this car. Any more power and it would detract from the real purpose of owning this comfortable cruiser. For people who appreciate this car, cruising Bob’s speaks volumes.

The “rag top”? Easy to put down and stows neatly to transform the car into the roadster it is. In California, it’s beach time anytime and the drive will once again be as enjoyable as the cool breezes, hot sand and refreshing dips in the surf. You won’t even mind the traffic.

The overall feeling is nothing short of wonderful. At night you’ll turn on the lights and be enchanted by the turquoise glow from the instrument panel that will launch you back in time to the ‘50s and 60s. You’ll wonder why you can’t get a ‘car hop’ to come out and take your order for a Big Boy hamburger and fries with catsup and a cherry Coke. Boy was this a trip down memory lane.

The competition:

There is none, in my estimation. This is a one of a kind car. Surely it is the first and I predict it won’t be the last production rods. Just like the sport utilities, more of the major carmakers will have to get on the “band wagon”, or they’ll miss a golden opportunity.

Good News:

It’s new, exciting and clearly different. Fun to drive. All the advantages of owning a classic rod with none of the disadvantages.

Bad News:

Small trunk space. They can’t make them fast enough so the going price is higher than it should be.

Standard Equipment:

3.5 liter V6 253 horsepower engine, 4-speed automatic transmission with autostick, 4-wheel disc brakes, power rack & pinion steering, dual air bags with passenger on/off switch, air conditioning, power windows, tilt steering wheel and remote keyless entry.

Gas Stats:

17 City and 23 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP is $39,300.

1999 GMC Yukon Denali (201)

17-06-1998Autolove No comments

Overview:
The Yukon Denali went on sale earlier this year as a 1999 and has a unique grille and special headlights to set it apart from other Yukons. It joins a long running fad demanding a combination of car and off road vehicle.

The nice thing about the market for anything is that it is predictably unpredictable. It will go where people decide it will go. They do that by voting with dollars. Their dollars, soon to be GM’s or Ford’s or Japans or Germany’s. Right now the craze for the SUV has brought nearly every manufacturer into the market, including the Luxury car makers. So what started out to be for “rough and ready” guys and gals driving the wind in their hair Jeep Wrangler has captured the fancy of the Rodeo Drive well healed weak and wrinkled.

These luxury versions are so far removed from the original concept that it is simply a move to capitalize on this current booming market for big, upscale sport-utility vehicles.

Somehow I just can’t see a bunch of burley guys throwing fishing or hunting gear in the back and plopping their fish hook laden vested torso on my nice baige “cadillac quality” leather seats – with mud on their boots to boot. Rodeo Drive, ok, but the real world for the rest of us, forget it.

The 1999 GMC Yukon is available in three trims: SLE 2WD, SLE 4WD, and this Denali. The standard Yukon is nearly identical to the Chevrolet Tahoe, which is bigger and roomier than the top-selling, midsize Ford Explorer—but smaller than the massive Chevy/GMC Suburban. The Dodge Durango, Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator have all been stealing sales. Thus, we have the Denali. It spices up the Yukon line The 4-wheel-drive Denali has a $42,855 base price. That’s pretty stiff, compared to the $29,919 cost of the 2-wheel-drive SLE Yukon and the $32,919 price for the SLE 4-wheel-drive Yukon.

This is the widest of the wide of the SUV’s so if you’re a potential Yukon owner you’ll need to measure the garage to make sure it fits. Another annoyance is the two swing-out cargo doors block rear vision from the driver’s seat. Loading a Yukon is a snap however. And the rear seat is easily flipped forward to allow pickup-truck-style cargo room.

For those rough spots and imaginary pot holes in and around Beverly Hills and Brentwood the Denali has a very smart college educated traction control system that automatically engages when needed.

Watch for more Denali-style vehicles from GMC, as America’s love affair with big, high-style trucks continues, unless the stock market takes a big dump, then the well will dry up and Jeep Wranglers will be back in Vogue.

The Competition:

Chevrolet Tahoe $23,900 – $32,300 Dodge Durango $26,540 Ford Expedition $28,225 – $34,690 Land Rover Range Rover $56,300 – $64,500 Lexus LX 470 $54,950 Lincoln Navigator $39,310 – $42,960 Toyota Land Cruiser $45,950

Good News:

Roomy, Powerful,Clever 4-wheel-drive, posh say some. (trivia buffs – POSH stands for “Port Side Out, Starboard side Home”. and yes, I know, that term should have gone down with the Titanic).

Bad News:

Pricy, Average steering, handling and ride, Awkward size, Poor on gas consumption.

Standard Equipment:

5.7-liter V8 255 horsepower engine, 4-speed automatic trans, dual airbags, an anti-lock brake system (ABS), child safety locks, daytime running lights, air conditioning, cruise control, tilt steering wheel, power door locks and windows, deep-tinted glass, intermittent windshield wipers, AM/FM stereo with cassette & 6-CD changer, leather trim, Zebrano wood accents, projector-beam fog lights,16-inch chrome aluminum wheels, remote keyless entry, 6-way power front seats, heated seats front and rear, roof mounted luggage rack, and a bunch of other luxury touches.

Gas Stats:

12 City and 16 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP is $ 42,855

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