Tag Archives: 2000

2000 Hummer 4-passenger Open Top (323)

09-11-2000Autolove No comments

Overview:
Why would anyone want to own a Hummer? A. Because it’s practical, B. Because it’s economical, C. Because it’s a diesel, D. None of the above. – Answer: D. None of the above. Is that your final answer? Well there is no final answer, because there are many reasons to own a motor vehicle and this is the ultimate adaptation of the popular SUV with off-road capability.

But because of the purchase price it’s only suited to the rich and foolish? I heard Arnold Schwartzeneger say, “I’m a Hummer kind of guy”. Well, I guess that speaks volumes about the kind of guy who’d buy one. And before you say that’s a sexist comment, this is one of those rare instances where 100% of buyers ARE men. The price of his toys just went up.

If you like the idea of being one of the few who has what you have there isn’t any comparison or competition. All you have to do is fork over about $100,000 to be the proud owner. You’ll sit about 6 inches higher than most SUV’s, in a vehicle nearly 2 feet wider, and this “bad boy” also weighs about double the Range Rover, for example, as it tips the scales at 6640 lbs. Ground clearance is also double at 16 inches. That doesn’t sound like much, but it allows you to climb over larger obstacles than anything else can.

The first time I tested one of these Hummers a couple of years back I got stuck in mud up to my tousch. Every vehicle has its limitations which I failed to consider until that humiliating off road course experience. Solution: buy it with a winch. Perhaps the illusion of being invincible is because this Hummer is the civilian version of the military Humvee (HMMWV, for High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle), which was made famous in the Gulf War – or operation Desert Storm. The street legal Hummer is available in four trims: Hard Top 2-Door, Hard Top 4-Door, Open Top, and Wagon.

Handling & Performance:

Hummer is a military jeep with an almost car like interior. It’s wide for stability, but too wide to be useful in tight places. It is more at home on the wide-open ranges. The turbo is wonderful with enough poop to go from 0-60 mph in 19.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 82 mph. It is amazingly easy to drive on the highway and has good power steering necessary for tight spaces, which everything becomes for a vehicle this wide. I noticed a lot of “Play” in the steering wheel and don’t know why, but it reminded me of the old days when that was very common.

Styling:

This Hummer is Government Issue (GI) wartime functional and thus has that look, even without the gun turret. That’s what the appeal is all about. Finally a car you’ll feel safe driving through South Central Los Angeles to get to a USC football game while not being out of place in Beverly Hills where you’re likely to find the Hummer climbing over speed bumps with ease. Hummer fits the screen image of Sylvester and Arnold and is in sharp contrast to the usual Porsche, Mercedes and Rolls or Bentley basic transportation.

Fit and Finish:

Military, except the interior is spruced up with leather and wood trim.

Conveniences:

You gotta understand, for someone who drove a duce and a half in the military, this Beverly Hills cruiser is embarrassingly appointed. Leather seating, stereo with cassette and CD player, power windows, etc. But on the other hand, you’d better not put stuff on the passenger seats and start to drive, because if you need it, you have to stop and climb over the snow covered peaks of the center console. They should make a communication system standard equipment to overcome the noise level, too.

Cost:

Too much unless you’re planning a war, then the gun turret will hike the price even more. Cost to maintain is unknown, but it consumes diesel fuel like you’d expect from a Pentagon product and at prices as obscene as gasoline.

Recommendation:

There is no recommendation other than if you have the dough and want to be different, just go for it. Even if I could afford one to get away from it all, hiking or horseback would be more my style and the feed bill is less. The competition is almost laughable, because there is nothing on the road that comes close to the most unique utility vehicle available.

The Competition:

Chevrolet Suburban $25,921-30,780, Ford Excursion $34,245-40,985, GMC Yukon XL $35,752-39,639, Jeep Wrangler $14,890-22,435, Land Rover Range Rover $62,000-68,000, Lexus LX 470 $61,405, Lincoln Navigator $43,645-47,395.

Good News:

Versatile, off-road capable in open terrain, auxiliary fuel tank, unique.

Bad News:

Poor visibility, oversize inconvenience, huge but cramped interior, expensive to own and operate, need for auxiliary fuel tank, small cargo area and noisy.

Standard Equipment:

6.5 liter V8 GM Turbo Diesel engine that produces 195 horsepower with 430 lb-ft of torque, 4-speed automatic transmission, air conditioning, full-time 4-wheel drive and 4-wheel independent suspension, inboard mount power disc brakes, power steering, power door locks, remote entry, power windows, AM/FM Stereo cassette, 25 gal. Fuel tank and 17 gal. auxiliary fuel tank.

Gas Stats:

Not available, but I estimated under 10 mpg.

Pricing:

MSRP $79,065 plus the option package to include tire inflation system, cruise control, driveline protection, brush guards, trailer towing package, run flat tire system, power mirrors, heated windshield, power rearview mirrors, for a total of $89,936.

2000 Honda Insight Hybrid (319)

11-10-2000Autolove No comments

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.

2000 Corvette Hardtop (317)

27-09-2000Autolove No comments

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.

2000 Saturn SL2 (315)

13-09-2000Autolove No comments

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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2000 Buick Century Limited Sedan (313)

30-08-2000Autolove No comments

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)

23-08-2000Autolove No comments

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)

16-08-2000Autolove No comments

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

2000 Mazda Miata MX-5 (310)

09-08-2000Autolove No comments

Overview:

This weeks driving fun was provided by the Mazda Miata MX-5. I really liked the color combo with mahogany paint and beige top and interior. Real pretty. But it wasn’t all good news. I tested the 1999 model year about two years ago and it is evident that either Mazda doesn’t read my column or they don’t care what drivers might complain about.

Example: two years ago I commented on the terrible placement of the remote controls for the trunk and gas lid releases. They are still poorly placed in the rear part of the console storage compartment. And to add insult to injury, they make you reach awkwardly to the rear of the lid to open it in the first place. Hello! Anyone home. However on the plus side they made the car more rigid and I didn’t notice that tinny sound when the doors or trunk are closed.

This special edition includes wood trim including the steering wheel. Sorry but although I like wood sweaty hands cause the wheel to be slippery. I don’t know about you but I don’t wear leather gloves when I drive. A leather wrapped wheel is much better or wood on only about 25% of the wheel like that of Cadillac’s design. I also didn’t care for the design of the air conditioning ducts, as they were hard to adjust. I found myself fiddling with then constantly.

There wasn’t a lot of high tech stuff, but this like most cars today have radio controls that are digital when a simple knob for station selection or tone and balance would be better. It reminds me of a recent telephone conversation where I told the person on the other end of the satellite connection to write down a phone number. He said, “wait I have to boot my Palm Pilot.” Say what, have you ever heard of paper and pencil? I’m in a hurry. We need to balance technology with practicality.

Other concerns include – who will drive this Pea popper, tiny car where the speedometer goes up to 150 mph? I don’t think I want my kid driving this 2300 lb. car at those speeds.

On a positive note, I appreciated the tiny trunk for our trek to Tahoe since “She” couldn’t take too much stuff she didn’t need anyway. But “She” managed to fill the space behind the seat, where the top stows, so we couldn’t put the top down. I also loved driving this sports car in the mountains because I love that “G-force” feeling around the curves…. in the road, that is. It has lots of power and even passing slower traffic was no problem. I found the 6-speed shifter passable but it could be better.

If you’re thinking this will bring out the kid in you, it will, only if you are a kid. Older drivers will experience back pain getting in and out, which is similar to getting into a “Go Cart” or a Kayak for you water sports folks. So if you’re claustrophobic you’re likely to have an instant attack. And if you intend to drive long distances, your tousch will tire long before you have to stop for gas.

Handling & Performance:

Great! But, what do you expect from a car built so low to the ground snakes can crawl in easier than people.

Styling:

I like it. It has progressed nicely since its introduction over 10 years ago.

Fit and Finish:

Much improved even over last years model.

Conveniences:

Pretty basic but enough.

Cost:

More than the price tag should be for this sports car, especially when compared with the Mitsubishi Eclipse.

Recommendation:

Look at the Mitsubishi Eclipse. For the same money you’ll get a back seat without losing the sports car feel, and a one-button power top feature. Personally, with the possible exception of the Honda S2000, I don’t think it fits in the class and performance of the competition listed below from either a performance or price position. However they are all two seater sports cars. But then, so is a Ferrari.

The Competition:

BMW Z3 $31,300-36,900, Honda S2000 $32,000, Mercedes SLK $38,900-43,900, Mitsubishi Eclipse $25,237, Porsche Boxster $41,430-49,930, Toyota MR2 Spyder $23,098.

Good News:

Good gas mileage, fun to drive, adequate performance, top is easy to put up and down.

Bad News:

Marginal comfort from the seats on long trips, too much money for the car, small trunk, some controls poorly placed, difficult shifter and poor air conditioning ducts.

Standard Equipment:

1.8 liter 4-cylinder 140 horsepower engine, 6-speed manual transmission, rear wheel drive, power 4-wheel disc brakes, leather seats, stereo with clock and CD, power windows, door locks and mirrors, cruise control, 15” polished alloy wheels, halogen headlights, dual air bags, wood steering wheel and shift knob and parking brake handle and wood center panel, power antenna.

Gas Stats:

24 City and 29 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $25,055.

2000 Chrysler PT Cruiser (308)

12-07-2000Autolove No comments

Overview:
Well – what a joy to drive this PT Cruiser from Chrysler. It didn’t take long to warm up to this relic of my youth and my fond recollection of the rods we’d restore with a few changes. We’d “hop up” the engine put 40 coats of lacquer paint and in many cases we’d “chop and channel” and put it on a mean “Rake” to really be “bad” (rad, in today’s vernacular). Our renditions of the old cars were as good as today’s PT (for personal transportation) Cruiser, which, by the way, I mean as a compliment to this daring release from Chrysler.

We were better than Detroit and it only took 50 years for them to realize it. I often wondered why automakers didn’t take more signals from the youth who’d be driving their cars. In some respects they did. For example they recessed door handles, “shaved the hood” (removed the emblem) and put cars on a “rake” (lowered in front), and so on.

Perhaps even more the automakers have waited until that 50’s and 60’s generation grew up and now have the money to buy their dream years cars.

It’s true, as some say; you’ll either love or hate this remake of days gone by in our love affair with cars of nearly 100 years now. But we’re the new centurions and have that gladiator verve for life. We want to be different as we walk “Forward” into the new millennium. We have busy lives of travel and work unparalleled since Marco Polo trekked the globe. Few did it then, but many do it today because we now have the disposable income to have nearly anything we want.

Today’s generation is made up of independent young people who have wanted for nothing. They can afford to buy a replica of what grand daddy put together with “bailing wire and chewing gum”. The 2000-generation knows what chewing gum is but few will know what bailing wire is. That’s not a put down, by the way. Every generation has pet sayings and I wouldn’t have a clue as to the origin or meaning of some of today’s jargon.

Well, this PT Cruiser will remind many of a panel truck of the late 1930’s and early 1940’s. Perhaps that’s why a gentleman (about 50) commented to me that everyone his age wants one of these Cruisers. That was my experience too. But this is more like a 2000 SUV with 1935 styling. It doesn’t have 4-wheel drive, so it gets much better gas mileage. I found it extremely comfortable, with a great ride, good handling and adequate power. The manual shifter is topped by a white “cue ball” for that effect of hot rods of the day. My 1930 model A sedan had a Budweiser draft handle knob, which was really cool.

Just like show business, you won’t want to buy one of these if you want to remain anonymous. Everyone, ten to 100 will want to take a look.

Handling & Performance:

Built solid and handles well. The 150 horsepower engine is adequate but most will find it sluggish. Manual trans will make a positive difference.

Styling:

Mid to late 1930’s.

Fit and Finish:

My friend Mark says, “this interior is better than my BMW”. I agree.

Conveniences:

With the addition of the optional equipment package for $4,580 you can have most every gadget you’ll get in any other luxury car of today.

Cost:

How do they do it? Base price of $15,450. Well, you guessed it – the supply is limited and the price may be double the base price if you must have one now.

Recommendation:

Wait for supply to catch up with demand.

The competition:

Ford Focus $12,125-15,260, Honda CR-V $18,650, Subaru Forester $20,295-22,895, Suzuki Grand Vitara $18,299-20,499, Toyota RAV4 $16,888-18,298, VW Beetle $15,900-21,075.

Good News:

Well priced, fun to drive, roomy SUV-like, good gas mileage, oodles of headroom, good maneuverability.

Bad News:

High demand – low supply drives price up, poorly placed power window controls (center of dash and rear controls mounted on the rear portion of the center console – poor access for the driver.

Standard Equipment:

2.4 liter 150 horsepower 4 cylinder engine, 4-speed auto trans, front air bags, child seat anchor, power front disc with rear drum brakes, stabilizer bars, air conditioning, tilt steering column, power windows, fold down rear removable seats, AM/FM six speaker radio with cassette and CD, power driver seat and more.

Gas Stats:

20 City and 25 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $15,450.

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

2000 Acura 3.2 CL Type S (305)

28-06-2000Autolove No comments

Overview:

Switching manufacturers but not countries of origin we’ll take a peek at the Honda made (assembled in the US) Acura 3.2 CL Type “S”. This 2-door coupe is one spunky auto. It is sporty, compact, and yet roomy enough for average needs. Honda cars, like most Japanese cars, have been pillars of the auto industry community.

This Acura is no exception. And they are showing a little courage introducing some new vibrant colors. My instant reaction was a little negative, I must admit, but the gold color grew on me, as it appears to have for the majority of people who made comments about the car. Remember “Candy Apple Red”? , Well this is “Candy Apple Gold”. Ok there isn’t such a color, but you get the idea. Unfortunately the most unforgettable feature was the paint.

There is no question this Acura was designed for that sports car feel. Even the seats hug you so you can zip around and not slip and slide in the seat. That reminds me of cars built before the 1960’s. Remember the old bench seats with plastic seat covers? Those were the days before seat belts were required equipment on passenger cars. If you took a left hand turn too hard, you’d slide across the seat toward the passenger side, unless you could hold on to the “Brodie Knob”. Bringing back any memories out there? Those were also romantic days and that little maneuver was great on a date, but with the guys it wasn’t cool.

The CL’s navigation system features an easy-to-read 6-inch touch-screen, a readout of local attractions, and a DVD mapping database that provides coverage of the entire continental U.S. on one DVD. Do you need it? Probably not and it should be an option.

Handling & Performance:

Neat. I really warmed up to this car quickly. Just the right size for me and I love the “G” force in the corners so it was fun to drive. Speaking of “G’s” I need to get into the new NSX.

Styling:

Nice. I suspect this will be a good seller for Acura.

Fit and Finish:

Good.

Conveniences:

Great, and commensurate with the price, but this is one time I’d have preferred making some of the stuff optional. Who needs it all. Virtually everything is “Standard Equipment”. Enough already!

Cost:

A little more than I think it should be. I’d have to see the numbers but they should take some of the gadgets out and make it more affordable.

Recommendation:

Price wise it is a good deal with all the features if you want them, but it doesn’t have the personality of most of the others noted here. It doesn’t have that “beefy” feel of the Mercedes, BMW or even the Volvo for that matter.

The competition: (arguably)

Audi TT $31,200-38,900 BMW 3 Series $26,990-34,990, Lexus SC 300/400 $43,805-56,305, Mercedes Benz CLK $41,600-55-600, Saab 9-3 $26,100-44,995, Volvo C70 $34,000-45,500.

Good News:

Fun to drive, powerful, lots of neat electronics and conveniences, decent gas mileage – potential.

Bad News:

Pricey if you’re not into all that fluff.

Standard Equipment:

3.2 liter 260 horsepower V6 engine, 5-speed auto trans, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, power steering, dual affront and side air bags, traction control / VSA, theft system, keyless entry, Satellite Navigation system, leather, 8-way power driver and 4-way passenger seat with power walk-in feature, driver memory system, power mirrors, Bose stereo with cassette and 6-disc in dash CD changer, climate control, power Moonroof with tilt.

Gas Stats:

19 City and 29 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $32,330.

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