Tag Archives: 2000

2000 Plymouth Voyager

01-04-2000Autolove No comments

Overview:

This 2000 Plymouth Voyager along with all minivans are perhaps the best family cars ever produced. They are low slung so little people can get in and out easily, are comfortable and easy to maneuver. The model I drove was a trip back to basics, which means no power seats, windows or door locks. Hand cranks on the door panels are not seen much any more but it’s a step up from Isinglass curtains that “roll right down in case there’s a change in the weather”.

Don’t misunderstand, I’m not being a “power snob” but in this size vehicle I consider power windows and door locks a necessity. You might be able to reach knobs on the passenger side of a small two seater but I wouldn’t own this vehicle without these two features. Power seats? Now that’s a different story. You can function without power seats in any vehicle. But it’s a real pain when you exit the car to have to check every portal to be sure they are all locked and windows rolled up. Spoiled? No I don’t think so. These are practical considerations. The majority of time you drive your car, you are alone. After you drop the kids at school and push on to the next task of the day, you’ll find yourself walking around to close and lock doors and roll up windows. It doesn’t take long to tire of not having these “Basic Necessities”.

Handling/ Performance:

Excellent car like comfort and feel. Some think it is under-powered, but for the majority of time you’ll be well serviced by this 158 horsepower V6 engine. And you wont be stopping as often at the gas pump as you would with the 180 horsepower version.

Styling:

It’s that old “Cookie-Cutter” design because all minivans look pretty much the same. Like identical twins Johnny and Donny, or was that Donny and Johnny. In the Chrysler family, in fact, this Voyager is virtually the same vehicle as the Dodge Caravan but for a slight difference in the grill work. I suppose all manufacturers have adopted the same design because people simply like it. The only recent difference that comes to mind is the innovative sliding door roll-down windows on the Mazda MPV. Other minivans may have more or better storage compartments, easier seat removal devices and such, but by and large the outward appearance is the same.

Fit and Finish:

The Voyager is assembled in Canada and they do a good job, eh?

Conveniences:

Bare bones, but aside from not having power windows and door locks, I had few complaints. However, you can add options to suit your need and pocketbook, which you often don’t have the ability to do on many other brands. Some manufacturers try to improve efficiency of production by including all options as standard equipment, but there is no free lunch and you end up paying for more than you need. The Voyager now has an option to include an entertainment center so you can pop a video in to occupy the kids who get bored on journeys or even local commutes. And yes, you can even opt for power windows, door locks, seats, air conditioning, CD player and cruise control.

Cost:

Young families can have all the convenience of a minivan at a great price by eliminating unnecessary features.

Recommendation:

I was most recently impressed with Mazda MPV and also liked the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna. I haven’t tested the Pontiac Montana or the Mercury Villager. With this Plymouth you get nice affordable styling and have options to add those things you simply can’t live without.

The competition:

Chevrolet Venture $20650-29,350, Dodge Caravan $18,850-32,450, Ford Windstar $19,910-33,455, Honda Odyssey $23,400-26,000, Mazda MPV $19,995-25,550, Mercury Villager $22,510-27,210, Nissan Quest $22,259-26,699, Oldsmobile Silhouette $25,345-31,940, Pontiac Montana $23,765-25,635, Toyota Sienna $22,368-27,334.

Good News:

As Bob Barker says, “The price is right”, handles like a car, decent gas mileage

Bad News:

Poor storage in the 7 passenger model, driver area storage compartments are insufficient, rear hatch is full door that’s heavy and hard to open and close.

Standard Equipment:

3.3 liter 158 horsepower V6 engine, 4-speed automatic trans, dual air bags, power front disc and rear drum brakes, power steering, 5-passenger seating, AM/FM radio with cassette and tinted glass. ( I told you it was basic).

Gas Stats:

18 City and 25 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $18,685.

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

2000 TrailBlazer w/On Star (308)

01-04-2000Autolove No comments

Overview:
This week we had the opportunity to go to the mountains in the Chevrolet Trail Blazer. Sequoia National Park where there are Lions, No Tigers, but lots of bears. I bumped into two but wasn’t in the Trail Blazer. Boy, that will get your heart started. And if you love cars as much as I do, this version of the Blazer will help you enjoy seeing the USA in your Chevrolet.

We toted gear for three people for a week very comfortably without using the roof rack. I’ve tested all the competition except the Ford Explorer, but generally if you turn them upside down you’ll find they’re all sisters. There simply isn’t enough difference in the lot to really get excited about. SUV’s are so popular manufacturers don’t seem to be willing to go too far out on the “difference limb”.

And although Explorer may lead the pack in sales, it isn’t by much and perhaps the slight increase in width and height of the Explorer over the Blazer is more important to buyers. I’ve owned lots of both Ford and Chevy’s and have usually opted for the Chevrolet family.

Handling & Performance:

Mineral King is at the south end of the Sequoia’s and was annexed not so long ago into the National Park. After leaving the main highway 198 through Visalia, you’ll have to negotiate 639 turns before you reach the Silver City store and cabins or camping areas. I didn’t tire a bit after the 4 hours of freeway driving to get to the turnoff from Los Angeles. The V6 delivered all the power needed to climb to 7000 feet over black top and dirt roads.

Styling:

Ya gotta love GM for the consistent car lineup they’ve maintained over the years. Chevy products just exude confidence in the area of quality and command attention as being a leader in design. Jeep, on the other hand was first on the scene as far back as WWII and the standard on which others are measured. It’s always been a favorite of mine in this category.

Fit and Finish:

Good.

Conveniences:

I never wanted for any feature. In fact, I’ve got to tell you a little story. I’m driving from Silver City to Mineral King were most of the trailheads start for the most beautiful hiking in any country. So I push the On Star blue button and wa-la, “Welcome to On Star – this is Brian, how can I help you?” Whoa, says I to Brian, I’m testing this and wanted to know if it would work here in the wilderness. Brian says, “I have you traveling east on Mineral King Road in a Trail Blazer”. Thanks, Brian and On Star. That is really convenient and adds comfort or peace of mind. And the On Star operators are always so damn polite. For more information, you can go to www.onstar.com.

Cost:

If you could get it without the On Star you could save a bunch, but it appears to be standard.

Recommendation:

To me, as noted above, Jeep is the benchmark of all SUV’s. Thus, I’d start there and test-drive all the competition in order of preference according to styling.

The competition:

Dodge Durango $26,310-28,310, Ford Explorer $19,970-34,565,Honda Passport $22,800-30,150, Jeep Grand Cherokee $26,895-34,635, Land Rover Discovery $33,350-34,150, Mitsubishi Montero Sport $20,493-28,524, Nissan Pathfinder $27,349-31,299, Toyota 4Runner $22,288-36,818.

Good News:

Comfortable ride and great seats for the 5-hour trek to Sequoia National Park, good handling, built like a rock? Well, maybe not that good but basically quality construction, autotrac / automatic 4-wheel drive works well, nice interior.

Bad News:

I keep harping on the poor gas mileage and no one listens, this is narrower than the Explorer, for example, therefore seating of 5 may be less comfortable than you’d like, poor visibility typical of all SUV’s.

Standard Equipment:

4.3 liter 190 horsepower V6 engine, 4-speed auto trans., autotrac 4X4 transfer case, climate control, power steering, daytime running lights, dual air bags, 4-wheel antilock disc brakes, On Star system, stereo with CD, 18 gal fuel tank, theft deterrent system, 8-way power driver seat, keyless remote with theft alarm.

Gas Stats:

16 City and 20 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $31,765.

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

2000 Dodge Ram 2500 HD Sport (292)

29-03-2000Autolove No comments

Overview:
This Dodge Ram 2500 HD Sport regular cab truck is a “Real Man’s” package of muscle in the V10 Magnum engine with 310 horsepower. Empty it is wonderfully fast. And with a load, the ride is softer and you will hardly know it’s there. Turn on the air and still no noticeable loss of power.

After picking up this beauty I set out “south of the border, down Mexico way”. About 100 of us spent up to 4 days in Tecate and Valle Verde, El Florido where we met the challenge to build two houses in two days. It proved to be a great test of man and machine. I have to say this very heavy duty truck held up better than my body. The roads in that area are mostly dirt and as bumpy as you’ll find anywhere. For you skiers, picture moguls made of hardened clay mud. Thank you Dodge for providing the transportation.

I was pleased with the performance for the entire trip other than the consumption of gasoline. However, it just so happened that I ran into a fellow at one of the gas stations I chanced to visit, who was filling up his 1997 V10. I listened with great interest about his problems with that model. He said he had no problem with the engine and drive train, but some other components failed. Coincidentally he travels into Mexico on business very often and also experiences the off road conditions as I did. First, he says the rear brakes went out after only 25,000 miles. The rough roads didn’t contribute to that problem, but the relentless shaking caused the strap on the front of the gas tank to snap and the horn bracket welds broke as well. And finally he had a short that kept blowing fuses. All had been resolved and basically he was a happy camper.

I had a reader e-mail me about the diesel V8 version. He says, “I bought a 1999 2500 Cummins (diesel) back in January (1999). It has the four doors, eight foot bed and all that other stuff. It’s the same model that is pictured on your web site. I’m very happy with it. A few little notes for you….I am averaging 19 MPG… better than any V-8 that Dodge makes.
Kent
Mansfield, Ohio”.

Well, to Kent and others, I agree with his comments, and 19 MPG isn’t bad for a big truck like that. However, this is a V10 Magnum and I experienced overall mileage of 13.64 for the week. There are no published numbers that I could find.

Handling:

On those back roads at slow speeds or on the freeway it maneuvers well. It is stable, albeit a little uncomfortable without a load as you’d expect for a truck suspension built to handle a 3700 lb. payload.

Styling:

It ranks up there in style with other leaders in the big muscle trucks produced by Chevrolet, Ford and GMC.

Fit and Finish: Well, it’s a truck. I’d have to say all the major competitors in this class are very similar. They are all car like inside and better than a truck should be.

Conveniences:

This model has everything you’d need even in a luxury passenger car except no back seat. That proves to be a distinct drawback. It is better, in my view, to have at least the extended cab. The Quad Cab is good if you don’t have a need for the long bed like this 4X2.

Cost:

Not bad for this very capable workhorse.

Recommendation:

As you know from television advertisements, Chevy’s are built “like a rock”, Fords are “Ford Tough”. And this Dodge Ram is as tough as 16 penny nails. I can’t ignore the concerns of the owner of that 1997 model, but more importantly you need to remember the conditions in Mexico are extreme for any vehicle. You might ask the dealer if the problems he mentioned have been fixed.

The competition:

Chevrolet Silverado 2500 $20,489-33,465, Ford F250 Super Duty $20,110-31,370, GMC Sierra 2500 $21,134-30,556,

Good News:

Comfort and convenience of a passenger car in a heavy duty truck built for heavy payloads and towing capacity. V10 high torque and horsepower.

Bad News:

V10 gas consumption. A little rough ride when empty, over 65 mph.

Standard Equipment:

8.0 liter V10 Magnum 310 horsepower with 450 ft. lbs. of torque, 4-speed automatic trans., dual air bags with on/off switch for passenger, power disc / drum in rear anti lock brake system, power steering, front coil springs and rear 60” leaf springs, HD gas shocks, large center armrest w/ storage, AM/FM radio with cassette.

Gas Stats:

?? City and ?? Highway MPG. / estimate for my trip of about 14 MPG overall.

Pricing:

MSRP $20,240, and the model I tested had the SLT package including air conditioning, power windows and locks, cruise control, tilt wheel, special light package, dual power fold away mirrors, upgrade tires and wheels, plus sport group including special headlights and fog lights, plus trailer tow group and much more for a total of $25,630.

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

2000 Jaguar XKR Coupe (291)

22-03-2000Autolove No comments

Overview:
This seductively beautiful Jaguar XKR Coupe is a silver bullet that’s easy to fall in love with. Its history is rich but so is the price tag. This car is not for the faint of heart both from a financial standpoint and the rocket performance that can intimidate some folks. It also isn’t for someone who wants or needs lots of room. This is a sports car and irrespective of its elegant stature it is small. So unless you’re in the market for an upscale luxury sports car for two people max, don’t spoil yourself by test driving this one. It’s truly a beautiful automobile and its beauty is more than matched by its graceful performance. The 370-horsepower supercharged AJ-V8 engine takes this coupe from 0-60 in just 5.2 seconds, and 0-100 in 5.6 seconds making the XKR one of the fastest accelerating cars built for the road. It isn’t for the little old lady from Pasadena, unless she’s still riding Harley’s.

The closest car to this in all around feel, in my view, is the Lexus SC400. I found both sophisticatedly smooth in ride and acceleration. I’d have to give the edge to this XKR for acceleration because of the supercharger. It’s not for everyone and some “in the know” automotive experts complain that the car is too well mannered. They say the supercharger is more like a turbocharger in performance. They also say with this kind of luxury car you lose the feel in the drive train which for them is a turn off. Me! I like that about this car and don’t give much weight to that argument. You can’t please everyone.

Handling:

The suspension is firm, yet comfortable and smooth. You’re going to love the feel around town or on the open road. Especially the open road, because that’s where it purrs like the cat it is. Road noise is almost non-existent and the engine is smooth and well behaved at idle.

Styling:

You’ll to be the judge, but as for me I’m in love.

Fit and Finish:

Perfect enough for me, too perfect for others.

Conveniences:

More than enough for me, too many for others.

Cost:

A lot for me, no big deal for others.

Recommendation:

If a two seat sports car is what you want, money is no object and you want to be 20 again, with a major Itouch of class, this is your car. Finally, I believe it’s a Jag that a man can love and sales should be very good.

The competition:

Aston Martin DB7 $140-150,000, Acura NSX $84-88,000, Porsche 911 Carrera $65,030, Lexus SC 400 $56,305, Mercedes Benz CLK $41,600-55,600.

Good News:

On a par with some pretty impressive company. A smooth, sophisticated, awesome performer. Comfortable ride. Elegant interior with an abundance of real burl wood.

Bad News:

Price range will allow only the few to enjoy this car. Not easy to get in and out of the car. Very small rear seating area and trunk space is very limited. I did get my golf clubs in and a case of bottled water. Not much room.

Standard Equipment:

4.0 liter supercharged 370 horsepower V8 engine, 5-speen automatic transmission, Front driver and passenger air bags, 4-button remote entry, engine immobilizer which shuts down the engine without computer-coded keys, traction control, stereo sound system with 6-disc CD changer, heated seats, headlight power washers, and rain-sensing windshield wipers. Note: the only option available is an integrated navigation system.

Gas Stats:

16 City and 23 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $76,800, and the model I tested had the optional navigation system for $2,400.

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

2000 Mazda MPV ES (290)

05-03-2000Autolove No comments

Overview:

Well, well, well, something new, innovative and different. The Mazda MPV is the first Minivan to provide roll down windows on their sliding doors. On this model they are power as well. Don’t you just wonder why others haven’t done this before now. Nice touch guys.

Observation – have you noticed that the Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) and the Minivan have evolved over time to blend together in design? The SUV has more road clearance and 4-wheel drive for all the off roading they will never do. The Minivan retains the sliding doors and low to the ground profile so well suited for little people and granny’s in the family. SUV’s are still more popular but lose my vote in a playoff as to which is a better family car. And with the price of gas sure to go higher, the Minivan is destined to capture sales from the SUV market.

Handling & Performance:

Being built low to the ground with a wide stance gives this Mazda MPV nice handling characteristics. I also felt it was very responsive with plenty of power out of the 2.5 liter V6. The short nose and front wheel drive makes it very maneuverable.

Styling:

I like the new look for 2000 for this MPV. But as minivans go they’re all very similar in design. Every time I drive one of these versatile vehicles I like them even more. Mazda has paid attention to design details like hiding the sliding door mechanism under the rear window. That’s real smart and another “wonder why it didn’t happen sooner”. I don’t particularly like the third row seat setup. The seatback folds forward but not up and out of the way to provide more luggage storage. The Moonroof option has the largest opening I\’ve seen.

Fit and Finish:

Luxurious, says one visitor to my van. Well, that’s because they’ve done a nice job in putting the thing together. Another job well done. I’m beginning to be impressed.

Conveniences:

Minivans have a way of including lots of cup holders, storage places and nooks and cranny’s to make these great travel vehicles. The sound system in the rear is another great assist in keeping the kids occupied. Some manufacturers even have entertainment centers including VCRs and game ports. Great for making long trips easier to take for everyone. Questions like “are we there yet?” and comments like “I have to go to the bathroom” are sure to become remnants of the past. Such conveniences quickly become necessities. I also like the captains chairs in the front and center positions.

Cost:

Well priced. I have to admit this is the first time I\’ve tested the MPV and although I haven’t been a fan, it has been due more to ignorance. I simply haven’t taken the time to drive one. Thanks Mazda for asking me to look at it.

Recommendation:

I particularly liked the Toyota Sienna – overall feel, Honda Odyssey – great power sliding doors and the Oldsmobile Silhouette – great entertainment center, but have to include this Mazda MPV in my recommendation. Very impressive.

The Competition:

Chevrolet Venture $20,650 – $29,190, Dodge Caravan $18,850 – $32,175, Ford Windstar $19,815 – $33,360, Honda Odyssey $23,400 – $26,000, Oldsmobile Silhouette $25,195 – $31,790, Plymouth Voyager $18,685 – $24,080, Toyota Sienna $22,368 – $27,334.

Good News:

Roll down windows on the sliding doors, comfortable ride, handles well, elegant clean lines, seating for up to seven.

Bad News:

Poor visibility and small cargo area.

Standard Equipment:

2.5 liter 170 hp engine, front wheel drive, 4-speed auto trans, power steering, power front disc ABS brakes, alarm system, remote keyless entry, dual front and side air bags, 7-passenger seating, leather, power windows and door locks, stereo, air conditioning, tilt steering wheel, power heated mirrors, front and rear intermittent wipers, tinted glass, dual sliding doors with power down windows.

Gas Stats:

18 City and 23 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $25,550.

2000 Chevrolet Blazer LT 4WD, 4DR (288)

01-03-2000Autolove No comments

Overview:
The Chevrolet Blazer that shares the Oldsmobile Bravada platform is one of those Sport Utilities that have substance. They’re every bit as impressive as the more expensive Infiniti QX4, Mercedes Benz ML 320 and the Lexus RX 300 for much more money.

Perhaps that explains why they’re so popular with the consumer. Those more expensive competitors have been touted as the best of the best by many magazines but don’t let the name badges fool you. I have driven them all, and totally enjoy the Blazer experience equally as much. It’s not hard to see why people flock to them in huge numbers. Surely the SUV has to be the hottest category of car on the market today as it has been for the entire decade of the 1990’s. I don’t see that changing unless gas prices go much higher. Not until you drive in other countries of the world, especially Europe, the idea of $4.00 per gallon is only an imaginary absurdity.

I did manage to talk my daughter out of buying an SUV. She wisely listened to dad and bought a Toyota Avalon. I was shocked that she listened to my advice. I was concerned that as a young family they needed to consider cost of operation equally as much as the cost to buy. Plus, I think most of us consider the image of ownership rather than the practicality. I’m writing from the docile environment of Southern California where the weather conditions are not a factor. And as mentioned before you don’t really need a 4 by 4 to get over speed bumps. The fact remains that not more than 10-15% will ever go off-roading, so why spend the dough for a capability if you’re never likely to use it.

Handling & Performance:

Delightful. Really great to drive. For a tall vehicle the stiff suspension allows it to corner very well. Also they are small enough to get around town easily. Turning radius isn’t the best but all SUV’s are about the same.

Styling:

Obviously people have given their stamp of approval by buying the SUV look in large numbers. I’ve always liked the design and convenience overall. I do, however, enjoy off road courses and like to simply take back roads in the sticks just to see where they go. If you too like to do that, you probably do some camping and will get a lot of use from this very versatile car.

Fit and Finish:

The best it’s ever been. I can’t bitch about the workmanship. It’s not a Stradivarius but relative to prior years they’ve come a long way, baby.

Conveniences:

Everything you need and more. I know some people like the Jeep Wrangler because it’s a “real man’s” jeep. But I just can’t warm up to revisiting WWII. I prefer to have bun warmers for those cold mornings, power seats and a great sound system. Quite frankly they are even good off road where you can leave your “kidney belt” at home.

Cost:

Original purchase price is OK – not great, but OK, however you’re going to pucker up if gas prices go to $2.00 or more as predicted. SUV’s will take a big hit if that happens because this category of car just can’t do any better with improving mileage. They simply require big engines to haul the weight and gear.

Recommendation:

If money for operation is not significant and you are active outdoors people go for it.

The competition:

Dodge Durango $26,170 – $28,170, Ford Explorer $19,970 – $34,470, Honda Passport $22,800 – $30,150, Jeep Grand Cherokee $26,765 – $34,540, Land Rover Discovery $34,150, Mitsubishi Montero Sport $22,527 – $31,357, Nissan Pathfinder $26,399 – $31,299, Olds Bravada $31,498, Toyota 4Runner $22,288 – $36,818.

Good News:

Nice solid ride, powerful V6, handles well, improved quality from prior models.

Bad News:

Terrible gas mileage, poor visibility.

Standard Equipment:

4.3 liter V6 190 HP engine, 4-speed automatic trans, air conditioning, power steering, daytime running lights, dual air bags, 4-wheel anti lock disc brakes, stereo w/ CD player & theftlock, split fold rear seat, 8-way power driver seat, keyless remote entry.

Gas Stats:

16 City and 20 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $28,570.

2000 Pontiac Sunfire GT Convertible (287)

23-02-2000Autolove No comments

Overview:

This 2000 Pontiac Sunfire GT Convertible is more of a mid range car and certainly at the higher end of its closest competitors noted below. The coupe base price is $16,295 as compared to the “Rag Top” at $21,745. That is rather betwixt and between its competition range and the Chrysler Sebring Convertible that I tested the week before.

The Sebring I had, well equipped had a sticker price of $26,560. You’ll notice the $5 grand difference, but moreover the Sunfire is more a scaled down version of the Sebring with a lobbed of rear end. That was the first thing I noticed and also the first thing I disliked about the car. Not that there was a lot to dislike, but the back end is just to short for my liking. Notwithstanding, it is a worthy contender.

Since I’ve owned several convertibles (MGB, ’67 Camaro, ’91 Camaro) I tend to notice the structural integrity of convertibles. You know how they twist and feel “loosy-goosy”, well, both this Sunfire and the Sebring are great at making you forget you’re in a convertible when the top is up. They do such a nice job these days mostly because the headliner hides the convertible well. But also, the real glass rear window helps to remove the perception of being in a “Rag Top”. Plexiglas, no matter how good it is, it is still “plastic”.

The visibility is rather poor, which is something they haven’t figured out how to improve. Naturally, if you like the advantages of a convertible top, you’ll live with the poor visibility. But, of course, with the top down, visibility doesn’t get any better. And speaking of top up/ top down, this has a single lever in the center at the top of the window that operates the power top. If memory serves me at all, I recall this auto top works much like the $70,000 Jaguar XK8 that I drove in 1997.

Handling & Performance:

Typical small car zip around town control. It hugs the road much better than I expected from this price car. When my two brain cells think of handling they collide with each other and recall the Acura NSX and the Corvette and the Mercedes Benz E55 all with high tech suspensions that make you feel like you’re on rails. So I was pleasantly surprised with the handling characteristics of this relative “Pee Popper”.

Styling:

I don’t much care for the “Bobbed Tail” look but you can’t please everyone, right? Overall, it has decent lines.

Fit and Finish:

Not bad, but Pontiac tends to be “bulby” so your eye doesn’t tend to notice the seams as much as if the surface were smooth, like the Lexus for example.

Conveniences:

Pretty much manual stuff, like the air conditioning, seats, etc., but enough of it for the money. I prefer automatic transmissions for every day drivers since shifting tends to get tiresome after a bit. On the other hand it reduces the price $810 from the standard 4-speed automatic.

Cost:

Convertibles simply cost more to make but the leap in price from the coupe seems too great. It is also high enough that I’d be encouraged to look at other convertibles like the Chrysler Sebring where the price is not so far removed.

Recommendation:

Look at the Sebring and compare for yourself. The price difference may be small enough to justify the added luxury.

The competition:

Chevrolet Cavalier $13,160-19,830, Dodge Neon $12,490, Ford Focus $11,960-15,380, Honda Civic $10,750-17,545, Hyundai Tiburon $13,999, Mazda Protégé $11,970-15,145, Mitsubishi Mirage $11,757-16,947, Nissan Altima $15,140-20,390, Saturn SL $10,685-12,895, Subaru Impreza $15,895-19,295, Toyota Corolla $12,418-15,068.

Good News:

Standard cloth seats are nice on cold mornings. The 2.4 liter engine is very responsive and with the manual transmission it was better than the larger engine in the Sebring, for example. Nice one lever convertible top control which is quite good for this price car.

Bad News:

Floor mat design problem in that it not only slips when you get in, but when it does the clutch pedal catches on it to screw up shifting. The emergency brake handle is too close to the gearshift. Door pockets are inaccessible to the driver with the door closed. They seem to be there more for the folks in the rear seats.

Standard Equipment:

5-speed manual trans, power steering, power top, cruise control, stainless steel exhaust, dual air bags, power front disc/rear drum ABS brakes, theft deterrent system, rear spoiler, rally aluminum wheels, air conditioning, remote keyless entry, power windows/locks/mirrors, full headliner, stereo with CD player and tilt steering wheel.

Gas Stats:

23 City and 33 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $21,310.

2000 Chrysler Sebring Convertible (286)

16-02-2000Autolove No comments

Overview:
This 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible reminds be so much of the Pontiac Firebird. One difference is that the Firebird is a muscle car with a big V8 and torque to burn the tires of the car. Overall I received a lot of good comments. Shelly says “Oh you’re driving the Sebring, my most favorite car in the whole world. Don’t you just love it?” Well, now that you mention it, I do think it’s a pretty nice car. Shelly is just beyond teeny bopper but old enough to have a passion for cars. Yes even women have love affairs with their cars.

I reserve my enthusiasm not because I’m jaded by having too many… cars to drive but more because there have been questions about quality. Will it hold up? Time is the only test and that’s why reputation is so important to develop. I have to say it feels as solid as a coupe. The 1991 Camaro convertible I bought new wasn’t even solid the day I drove it off the showroom floor. It would shake, rattle and roll when you went up so much as a driveway. This Sebring isn’t that way at all, and it was one of the first things I noticed about it.

In spite of that fact, I believe you’ll notice drive train and road noise more than you should. Convertibles tend to be noisy but this seemed even more so than I expected.

Another thing you’ll notice is that it feels like a slug off the line. It felt like those 163 horses were straining a bit.

Handling:

Quite good considering most of the time I was testing this Sebring it was pouring rain. I tried to get it to mis-behave but it wouldn’t. Men do that you know. They keep pushing until they get into trouble. The “autostick” (Porsche calls it Tiptronic) allows you to shift manually for those mountain driving days.

Styling:

Noticeably sporty and good looking.

Fit and Finish:

This wasn’t a great time to have a convertible because California decided to pour down rain for nearly the entire time I was testing the car. Convertibles are more fun in the sum-sum-summer time but on a positive note it was a golden opportunity to see if it leaked. My Camaro had an annoying drip from the corner of the top on the driver side and you just knew it was a soft top. This Chrysler has a full headliner, no leaks and you don’t get the “soft-top” feeling when it’s up.

Conveniences:

I did put the top down when it stopped raining and unlike the Camaro manual top I had, this one is power activated and goes up and down without much effort. Yep, with the ’91 Camaro I had to get out of the car if I had the urge to “go topless”. This Sebring top also includes a real Glass rear window and has a defroster. Mine was Plexiglas and it fogged up in winter and in time they all discolor, so you can’t see through them even when it didn’t fog up.

Cost:

The base price covers most everything, but add $1,890 for upgrade in décor, traction control full 4-wheel disc brakes.

Recommendation:

The jury is still out on how well this Sebring will hold up. All Chrysler products in generations past were weak on quality. I wonder about the influence the Damlier/ Chrysler combination will have on quality. And I also wonder if being assembled in Mexico is a positive or a negative.

The competition:

Chevrolet Monte Carlo $19,290-21,735, Dodger Avenger $19,045-21,290, Ford Mustang $16,615-31,605, Honda Prelude $23,500-26,000, Mitsubishi Eclipse $17,697-20,287, Pontiac Firebird $18,590-30,950, Saab 9-3 $16,695-21,165, Toyota Celica $16,695-21,165.

Good News:

Convertible versatility, visibility good when top is down , roomy back seat for two more adults.

Bad News:

Convertible visibility is poor when top is up, too much road noise for my liking, sluggish off the line.

Standard Equipment:

2.5 liter V6 163 horsepower engine, 4-speed automatic trans with autostick, air bags, antilock front disc and rear drum brakes, keyless entry, theft deterrent system, power steering, air conditioning, cloth headliner, power locks, power driver seat, cruise control, stereo with cassette and 6-CD changer, tilt steering with leather wrapped wheel, power windows, convertible top with boot cover, power mirrors and console.

Gas Stats:

18 City and 26 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $26,560.

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

2000 Acura Integra 3-Door GS-R (284)

02-02-2000Autolove No comments

Overview:

This entry-level Acura has a name. The Integra model is the only Acura with a name as every other Acura is identified with numeric designations for the RL, CL, TL, SLX, and NSX labels.

The Integra hit the market in 1986 and it is Acura’s biggest seller by a three-to-one margin. Buyers tend to be well-educated young people, and that’s not surprising because it’s a sporty performance car, and the price is right. In addition there is a wide range of models like LS, GS and GS-R, in coupe or sedan.

This coupe is powered by 1.8-liter VTEC engine that produces 170 horsepower. My initial experience was slow and go as I was busy “tak’n care of biz-ness”. But then my friend Merkel reminds me that it’s got the VTEC engine that redlines at 8000 RPM. And up there, of course, is where it develops that horsepower. Down in the low ranges it is pretty docile. Merkel says wind the P out of it and it will show its stuff. Well, Merkel is right, of course. He usually is. Thanks Merkel for the technical lesson. As you may recall, he’s one of those egghead engineers. I hate when they’re right about all that technical stuff. “Joe, this is the most advanced engine design on the market today” he tells me, and goes on to say “that ‘variable valve timing and lift’ is amazing engineering and is what allows the VTEC to get so much from so few liters”. Ok already.

A 4-speed automatic is available on LS and GS but I had the 5-speed manual transmission that gives that “real” sports car feel because you’re always busy shifting. Makes you want to get on the open road and stop exercising your left leg and right arm. Gee, what about left handed people. I never thought of that before. Do they have to drive from the passenger side?

Handling & Performance:

… is of course awesome. In some ways it even reminded me of the NSX. I had a near miss as someone pulled out in front of me from the left-hand turn lane and I appreciated the quick response you get from this sporty car.

Styling:

Pretty much the same look over the years. Hatchbacks are few and far between these days. It has clean lines and the rear Spoiler adds that final touch that this must be a performance car.

Fit and Finish:

Very good, but ho-hum in a way because you come to expect it from these Japanese automakers.

Cost:

Good. What else can you say? The badge is Acura; the engineering is top notch so you get a lot for the dough.

Recommendation:

If you like sporty, don’t need a lot of space for rug rats, or don’t want to bend over to adjust the car seat(s) this is a nice fun to drive car. At the end of the day however you’ll need to drive the competitors noted because – well, you’re you and I’m me.

The competition:

Dodge Avenger $19,045-21,290, Ford Mustang $16,615-31,605, Infiniti G20 $21,395-22,895, Mitsubishi Eclipse $17,697-20,287, Nissan Altima $15,140-20,390, Oldsmobile Alero $16,005-21,545, Pontiac Grand Am $16,040-21,470, Subaru Impreza $15,895-19,295, Volkswagen GTI $17,675-22,620.

Good News:

Popular price range for the quality, fast (at sewing machine rpms) and fun to drive.

Bad News:

Limited space when needed, small back seat and trunk area, open moon roof directs wind on back of your head.

Standard Equipment:

1.8 liter 170 horsepower engine, 5-speed manual trans, 4-wheel anti lock disc brakes, power steering, dual airbags, theft system, leather seats, air, stereo with CD, cruise, power windows and door locks, leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, adjustable steering column, moon roof, allow wheels, power mirrors, rear window wiper/washer, rear spoiler.

Gas Stats:

25 City and 30 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $22,200

2000 Acura 3.2 TL (283)

26-01-2000Autolove No comments

Overview:

The 2000 Acura 3.2 TL is a lovely automobile. I hadn’t driven one for a few years but as I wade through the competition I have to tell you truly I could see myself owning one of these. I don’t know if I would add the Acura navigation system for the extra two grand, but I’d be real tempted.

They just seem to get better every time I test one. I had a first generation navigation system back in 1989. They weren’t satellite driven and thus less accurate. It came with the used car, or I wouldn’t have bought the thing. Surely a housewife doesn’t need it to get the kids to school or the dentist, (yuk, dentist, I hate going to the dentist), but if you’re in any business where you have to visit lots of unfamiliar places in a large metropolitan area, the navigator is easily justified.

I don’t want to belabor this Navigation thing, but I like it because it reduces stressful driving situations. Once you learn to trust its accuracy you come to rely on it. It empowers you by letting you know you can never get lost. Think of it men, now you really won’t have to stop for directions, which women remind us that we don’t stop until we’re so lost there is no way back. Well, when you miss your turn off, no sweat – the system immediately adjusts to a new suggested route. But more important you’re not likely to miss a turn because a voice feature will talk to you, even if your wife isn’t. You can gab with your passengers or if alone, you can sing along with the radio or listen intently to a program. Plus, no maps to perilously perch on the seat or steering wheel. Yeah, I know that’s not safe and people don’t do that, right? Wrong. In any case it is a great feature and I suspect it will soon be standard on most all cars when the price comes down.

Remember the time when televisions were priced beyond the reach of most. I remember folks watching TV through the window of an appliance store on Lake Avenue in Pasadena. It got so common they even brought folding chairs. Well it didn’t take long for our family to justify the purchase. Up ‘till then we sat by the fire and listened to radio. The Lone Ranger and Tonto, Straight Arrow and Inter Sanctum. Wow, life was simpler then.

Speaking of the “good old days”, what ever happened to the gas fillers being located in some secret place. Remember when they’d be located behind the license plate or tail light. Times have changed a bit. In fact the Audi TT marks the location with a larger than life aluminum contraption emblazoned with rivets and bolts so as to resemble the filler on an Indianapolis 500 race car.

Handling:

Speaking of race cars, this TL handles really well and it’s fast (from 0-60 mph in 7.7 seconds). It also has a “Tip Tronic” kind of notched shifter like the Porsche for manual shifting up and down to give you the ability to shift “semi-manually”.

Styling:

Common, I guess, but nice. You may even mistake it for the Toyota Avalon. The lines are clean and elegant. I like it a lot.

Fit and Finish:

Typical Japanese workmanship. They are being Westernized in many ways but they still do the detail stuff well, and take pride in their craft.

Cost:

Not bad. That means it’s a little pricey but the quality and workmanship and reliability quotient is worth the extra.

Recommendation:

If it suits your taste and pocketbook go for it because this is a “keeper”.

The competition:

BMW 3 Series $26,990-34,990, Infiniti I30 $29,465-31,540, Oldsmobile Intrigue $22,210-25,840, Saab 9-3 $25,900-44,995, Volvo S40 $23,400.

Good News:

Clean and elegant styling, lots of features for the money, good handling, powerful, comfortable and smooth ride, one of the best navigation systems I’ve seen and nice attention to detail. A keeper.

Bad News:

Brakes are a little spongy and styling may seem plain and common to some.

Standard Equipment:

3.2 liter 225 hp V6 engine, 5 speed automatic transmission, 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, speed sensitive power rack and pinion steering, front and side airbags, traction control system, theft deterrent system, remote keyless entry, satellite linked DVD Navigation system, leather seating, driver 8-way and passenger 4-way power heated seats, Bose stereo with cassette and CD system, leather wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, climate control, moon roof, power windows and door locks, Xenon high intensity headlights.

Gas Stats:

19 City and 29 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $30,400 (includes $2,000 for the Navigation system).

1 234 5