Tag Archives: 2002

2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse GT Convertible

01-06-2012Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week I drove the 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder GT Convertible. I drove the first year model out of the chute in June of 2000 and since it continues to catch my eye I thought it was worth a second look. I continue to be impressed with the sleek and eye appealing styling. Yes I have always had a love affair with cars and get high on speed and “G” force.

In High School I owned a Corvette powered Ford Sedan that defined who I thought I was and an expression of who I wanted to be. If you grew up in the 1950’s and ‘60’s you even helped to define what cars would be like today. Stock cars were unexciting and young men of the day tried to change that. Detroit and other carmakers stood up and took notice. For young men of past generations cars truly did define their manhood.

Today you seldom see radical modifications made to stockcars because carmakers are more in tune with what people want. This GT proves that you can be stylin affordably. It is also apparent that present day men “and” women have re-popularized Sport Cars and particularly convertibles. Trucks and SUV’s have made a big mark on our highways. I believe that is because of the freedom of mobility and independence that come as “Standard Equipment” in today’s world. Ferrari epitomizes our love of speed and beauty and Trucks and SUV’s gives us the impression we can get out of harms way if need be.

Soon you’ll see a flood of “Hummer” wanna be’s, including Mercedes that will exploit man’s desire to out gun the bad guys, should they come knocking at our door.

Handling & Performance:

Low center of gravity cars are exciting to drive. They hug the corners like you should hug your mate.

And when you hug with a 200 horsepower V6 the thrill is even better. Manual transmissions help you become an integral part of the car and performance is enhanced by your touch and timing.

Styling:

I immediately liked the look of this sport car but it has grown even more pleasing to my eye over the year plus since I first drove it. If for no other reason than it is great looking it is worth a second look.

It is awkward for big people and women in dresses to get in and out of, but for the youthful driver (age not considered) it is worth the effort. In any case, there is no extra charge for the added exercise you’ll get.

The trunk spoiler is an annoyance because it blocks your rear view. No problem with the top down.

Fit and Finish:

Japanese standards. The Cadillac of quality carmakers.

Conveniences:

Most everything you ever wanted is included with a few notable exceptions. They should have included ABS and a power seat as standard equipment.

Cost:

Fair, but still on the high side. However, consumers will determine value by voting with their dollars.

Consumer Recommendation:

This is my pick of the bunch all things considered, although that opinion doesn’t include the Acura RSX or the Mercury Cougar, which I haven’t tested.

Manufacturer Recommendations:

Options are too expensive. ABS should be standard.

The Competition:

Acura RSX $20-23,000, Audi TT $31-40,000, BMW Z3 $31-38,000, Chevrolet Camaro $18-30,000, Ford Mustang $17-29,000, Honda Prelude $24-26,000, Mazda MX-5 Miata $21-26,000, Mercury Cougar $16-20,000, Toyota Celica $17-22,000.

Good News:

Fast V6, state of art soft top, great ride and solid feel, distinctive styling

Bad News:

Small trunk and opening, small rear seat.

Standard Equipment:

3.0 liter 200 horsepower V6 engine, 5-speed manual trans, dual airbags, anti theft engine immobilizer, power rack and pinion steering, 4-wheel sport tuned independent suspension, 4-wheel power front ventilated disc brakes, power soft top, air conditioning, power windows, locks and side mirrors, Infinity stereo with CD player, 10-way adjustable driver seat, adjusting steering column, keyless entry, cruise control, leather wrapped steering wheel, power antenna.

Gas Stats:

20 City and 29 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $25,597.

2002 Toyota Sequoia (418)

16-10-2002Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week I drove the 2002 Toyota Sequoia SUV, which is the first model year. 2003 wasn’t released when I tested it and I was told there wouldn’t be significant changes for the 03-year release. Another reason I wanted to test it was because a friend just bought an 02 and I rode in it and thought others would also be interested.

Luxury SUV’s like this Sequoia is a constant reminder of just how big this class of vehicle has become. Most consumers have their own reasons for buying a vehicle that is expensive to buy and operate. They probably don’t have a boat or other hole to dump their money or maybe they simply have money to burn. So much for a poor economy. When the Republicans are in office the Democrats talk about how bad the economy is and of course we believe them. But when I look around at today’s trains, planes and automobiles the USA looks pretty affluent. Am I missing something here? Of course it is said “It’s a recession when you’re out of work and a depression when I’m out of work”. All relative I guess.

I enjoyed driving this well endowed and abundantly appointed car/truck/small bus. What’s not to like. Other than the poor mileage from a 4.7-liter V8 at 14-17 mpg I couldn’t complain too much. It was comfortable, after all, and folks know instinctively this tank must cost about $50 grand so people will think the driver is pretty successful. We humans are shallow, don’t you think?

Handling & Performance:

”Big” speaks volumes. For starters it carries up to 8 good-sized people comfortably. It is still smaller than the Chevy Suburban or Ford Excursion and has 240 horses to power you from gas pump to gas pump.

Styling:

Nice, but I quickly tired of the long reach past the necessary running boards that got my pant legs dirty as I avoided their use. In the process I think I’d eventually tear my clothing on the plastic seat apparatus on exit. Friend Mark noticed the same problem in his new 2002.

Fit and Finish:

Toyota is “First Class” when it comes to assembly. They simply are as good as cars get. But then $42,000 should buy something more than a V8, 8 leather seats and nice carpet.

Cost:

Well I hate to complain but manufacturers could do a lot better. You’d think the heavy competition would keep the price down. But they keep the huge profit margin the same and just reduce the size of the SUV. These guys are getting smarter. Porsche even entered the market.
Consumer Recommendation:
If you have money to burn, care little for how fast we burn fossil fuels and need a 4-wheel drive, 9 out of 10 will never use, go for it. Otherwise look closely at the smaller versions of SUV’s that are now available for a fraction of the price with AWD capability and twice the gas mileage. Which ones would those be? Pontiac Vibe or Toyota Matrix, Nissan Xterra, Ford Escape, Saturn Vue and Toyota RAV4 to name but a few.

The Competition: * (in order of ranking)

(1t) Toyota Sequoia $31-43,000, (1t) Chevrolet Tahoe $34-36,000, (2) GMC Yukon $34-37,000, (3) Ford Expedition $31-41,000.

* – Ranking is based on cost, cu ft, number of features, warranty and gas mileage.

Good News:

Luxurious comfort with all the conveniences the world has to offer for up to 8 people.

Bad News:

Burns gas like we didn’t need oil from Iraq and Sons, painful entry and exit in this, you got to love it, Behemoth.

Standard Equipment:

4.7 liter V8, four speed auto trans, 4-WD, 4-wheel vented ABS disc brakes, aluminum alloy wheels, power steering, dual air bags, power heated mirrors, fog lights, leather faced power front seats with heaters, 2^nd and 3^rd row leather faced seats, power windows and door licks, stereo with cassette, CD and 10 speakers, tilt steering wheel, cruise control, 10 cup holders, auto headlights, anti theft system and immobilizer, digital auto climate control and keyless entry.

Gas Stats:

14 City and 17 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $42,725.
Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is joe@atthewheel.com
Copyright © 2002 – An Automotive Love Affair

2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser Woody (413)

04-09-2002Autolove No comments

Overview:
Boy, how that certain smile, that certain place or that certain car bring back memories like this weeks PT Cruiser Woody. I liked this car when it was introduced and I like it even more today. They’ve been painting them “Candy Apple” colors and of course as a flashback to the days of the “Woody” design. If only they could have used real wood. Would that have been cool or what? The one I tested had a roof rack and was only missing the surfboard to make the picture complete.

If Phil Stubbs, PHS Class of 1957 had lived he would have been toting his surfboard to Laguna Beach on this “Back in Time” SUV-like Woody wagon. It surely is a reminder of the late 1950’s and early 1960’s for me.

Handling & Performance:

It was great fun to drive this car. Albeit a little underpowered for my taste. I want to drive the Turbo Charged version, but at 215 horsepower it would surely remove the problem I had with the 150 horsepower version.

Styling:

Chrysler has, by and large, been the best auto manufacturer when it comes to stepping out and taking chances at being different and leading instead of following. Too bad they lost the kid who designed the PT Cruiser. Their loss – Chevrolet’s gain. Let’s see if he can continue to contribute in this industry or whether he fades away.

Fit and Finish:

Very good. I like what the employees of Chrysler Corp have done since Lee Iococca helped the company rise from the ashes like the Mythical Phoenix. They have done a great job in the design area and they do good work too. Chrysler cars used to be a bucket of bolts not always tightened down enough.

Cost:

This Special Purpose car/truck/van/classic car (you name it) is well priced although it has risen almost $3,000 in two years. If you don’t have to buy new, buy a year old Cruiser if you can find one. This car is so popular they seem to be everywhere you look.

Consumer Recommendation:

If you’re nostalgic or simply love “Rods” and don’t need the large SUV this is a versatile, comfortable efficient, personalized vehicle that will also be a hit with your kids. As I said

I didn’t test the Turbocharged version but if you do, let me know what you think.

The Competition: * (in order of ranking)

(1) Mini Cooper $16-19,000, (2) VW Beetle $16-23,000 (3) Toyota RAV4 $17-18,000, (4) Honda CR-V $19-22,000, (5) Chrysler PT Cruiser $17-22,000, (6) Subaru Forester $21-24,000, (7) Suzuki Grand Vitara $19-23,000.

* – Ranking is based on cost, cu ft, number of features, warranty and gas mileage.

Good News:

SUV-Like Special Purpose vehicle with good gas performance, unique “Back to the Future design.

Bad News:

A bit underpowered equipped with the 150 hp version. Go for the 215 hp turbocharged version – it should make a lot of difference.

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 fold flat passenger seat, theft deterent system, door locks, keyless entry, tint glass and power mirrors.

Gas Stats:

19 City and 25 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $18,115.

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

2002 Toyota Camry LE (410)

14-08-2002Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week I drove the 2002 Toyota Camry LE 4-door sedan and I sensed it was bigger than it needed to be unless they plan to dump the Avalon. This totally redesigned Camry is surely Toyota’s response to people wanting bigger cars again. I hope we don’t return to the days of huge lumbering cars that could second for a “Tank” if you just added a gun turret.

In reality, although it felt much bigger, it is only one inch longer with a two inch longer wheelbase. But it is taller and wider and that is what attacked my senses. I just thought it was a great size before and filled a need in that size car.

Sales figures from Toyota show that 75% of buyers opt for the fuel-efficient 4-cylinder engine. And they say that this new Camry change represents a move from Sensible to Sensual. Right. That’s exactly my point. Why would they want to change a winner? And is it really all that Sensual?

Handling & Performance:

Decent handling but nothing to write home about. I was a little miffed at a couple of things. My foot kept hitting the support under the dash while applying the brake, which was annoying. Braking was also noticeably spongy with a long travel.

Styling:

Unexciting is the best way to put it. It simply isn’t a memorable car, and that’s ok because that cuts both ways. Obviously people liked the look and functional attributes of the Camry up to this time. And only time will tell if they will embrace the changed version as much.

Fit and Finish:

Good. But this is something you notice when it’s bad, and overlook when it’s good. Most Japanese made cars do a good job at making the joints fit closely, even and uniform. This Camry is no exception.

Cost:

Not bad, all things considered.

Consumer Recommendation:

This new Camry reminds me too much of the Chevrolet Malibu or a Buick in that bulky feeling that is not attractive to me. The Corolla is about the size of previous Camry’s and you’d save some money at the same time if it satisfies your requirements.

The Competition: * (in order of ranking)

(1) Saturn LS $16-20,000, (2) Honda Accord $16-25,000, (3) Ford Taurus $19-23,000, (4) Chrysler Concorde $23-28,000, (5) Mitsubishi Galant $18-24,000, (6) Subaru Legacy $19-25,000, (7t) Pontiac Grand Prix $21-26,000, (7t) Toyota Camry LE $24,950, (8) Nissan Maxima $25-27,000, (9t) Buick LeSabre $25-30,000, (9t) Dodge Intrepid $21-27,000, (9t) Volkswagen Passat $22-38,000, (10) Volvo S60 $27-34,000, (11) Chevrolet Impala $20-24,000.

* – Ranking is based on a formula using cost, cu ft, number of features, warranty and gas mileage.

Good News:

One of the best selling cars in the US so it is highly regarded on a wide scale, and the good gas performance probably has a lot to do with its popularity.

Bad News:

Boring, untested new platform, jerky gas peddle, brake travel is long and spongy.

Standard Equipment:

2.4 liter4-cylinder engine, 4-speed auto transmission, front wheel drive, power steering, 4-wheel independent suspension, power front disc brakes, dual airbags, child safety rear locks, power mirrors, power windows and locks, climate control, cruise control, tilt steering wheel, variable intermittent wipers and split fold down rear seat.

Gas Stats:

23 City and 32 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $19,800.
Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is joe@atthewheel.com
Copyright © 2002 – An Automotive Love Affair

2002 Mercedes Benz C230 Sport Coupe (409)

07-08-2002Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week I did a second test drive on the 2002 Mercedes Benz C230 2-door sport coupe a year later. We drove up the California central valley to Southern Oregon. I’ve never done a second test review on a car, but a year later I thought I would give this car a shake down cruise. After all, it promises so much and I wanted to know if it was worth its salt. I couldn’t think of a better test for this “Small” car with so much promise. All the questions I had that I didn’t really test the first time around I suspect you might want to know the answers too. Was it comfortable or did you feel cramped driving non-stop for 11 hours? Did it get good gas mileage? How did it handle? Did it have enough power to pull the hills? Was it so small you felt intimidated by those 18-wheelers and buses?

The amazing thing is that for a mere 7 inches shorter than the C230 Sedan you lose almost nothing and pick up about a $5,000 savings over the Sedan. Let’s see, that’s about $2,500 per door and a few inches. And after answering all the questions I’m convinced this is going to be a real big seller for Mercedes. Young and old alike have to love this car. This test included toting three adults and two children (one in a car seat). Not one complaint.

I never thought I’d see a Benz that is so affordable. They have always been out of reach for most of us. And it really is a Mercedes although it is referred to many in the industry as the “Baby Benz”. Well this Baby has my support.

Handling & Performance:

This rear wheel drive coupe is solid, corners great and is super on the highway, in the city and on the farm.

Styling:

Older readers will remember that a car with the front end lowered was a style originated in the late 1950’s and it was referred to as being “on a Rake”. Perhaps it had more to do with a fad change to lowering the rear end that remained popular until the late 1960’s and spotty even to today. The first car I put on a Rake was a 1950 Olds 88 two-door hard top coupe. The technique was to torch the springs in the front and jump on the bumper until the car was at just the right angle. Hopefully you jumped evenly or the car would List a little to port or starboard. Well, today, most cars come from the factory with that “Back to the future” design styling. Which reminds me I have a High School Reunion coming up. I wonder if everyone has aged. I know I haven’t. I feel the same as I did then.

I like the smartly designed glass section below the rear spoiler effect on this C230, which is also an adaptation of an old technique on some Italian exotics over 30 years ago. This gives added rear view vision that is helpful especially while parking.

Fit and Finish:

German quality is almost as good as the Japanese. Just kidding, but when people try harder, they usually do a better job in any field. The Japanese have traditionally had a great work ethic. Likewise, Europeans have historically been the artisans and craftsmen of the world.

Cost:

Surely one of the best buys on the market today.

Consumer Recommendation:

If you are in the market for a car under $25,000 and are either real young or you no longer have a need for a big family sedan, this is the hot ticket. Don’t miss out on an affordable version of Mercedes engineering.

Manufacturer Recommendation:

Don’t raise the price when these things start selling. Keep your focus on the fact you want to invite younger people to the world of Mercedes Benz.

The Competition: * (in order of ranking)

(1) Audi A4 $24-31,000, (2) Mercedes Benz C230 $24,950, (2) Volvo S40 $24-27,000, (3) Acura TL $28-33,000, (4) Infiniti I30 $30-32,000, (5) Lexus IS 300 $29-31,000, (6) Saab 9-3 $26-45,000, (7) BMW 3-Series $27-42,000, (8) Lincoln LS $33-39,000 (9) Audi S4 39,000, (10) Jaguar S-Type $43-49,000, (12) BMW M3 $45-53,000.

* – Ranking is based on cost, cu ft, number of features, warranty and gas mileage.

Good News:

Well priced, good gas performance, Mercedes engineering.

Bad News:

Still none that matters.

Standard Equipment:

2.3 liter 192 horsepower supercharged engine, 6-speed manual transmission, dual zone climate control, leather steering wheel with leather shift knob, split fold down rear seat, cloth upholstery, smart key, cruise control, 8-way manual front seats, manual tilt and telescopic steering wheel, power windows, auto headlights with twilight sensor, heated power auto-dimming driver mirror, trip computer, 4 year 50,000 mile warranty, dual front and side airbags, baby smart seat recognition system, anti-theft and immobilizer, electronic stability program, anti-slip regulation and 4-wheel ABS power disc brakes.
Gas Stats:
19 City and 29 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $24,950.

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

2002 Porsche Carrera 4S Coupe (407)

24-07-2002Autolove No comments

Overview:

Life is good and I enjoyed driving the 2002 Porsche Carrera 4S Coupe this week. So if Porsche is pronounced Poor-Sha then I suspect Coupe is pronounced Coop-ay. For the record the 911 was introduced in Europe in 1963. That was a good year for other things too, but it wasn’t until 1965 the 911 came to America.

How do I love thee, let me count the ways. Well, it’s a sports car, it’s fast, it corners like the Materhorn ride at Disneyland, it is timelessly beautiful – need I go on? A loaf of bread, a jug of wine and off to some romantic spot in my Por-Sha. I wonder if Dr. Porsche pronounced it that way?

In any case it’s what the Doctor ordered for relief of the humdrum of ordinary. So I took this puppy up north, not quite to Alaska, and got the feel for how it would behave on those back roads that wind marvelously through the countryside in this wonderful land of OZ.

My friend Mark says this is a performance car you can drive every day of the week. True enough, but if you must drive the freeways in this country to get to work, forget shifting 2,000 times to go 25 miles, buy it with the automatic. Or consider a Lexus, Cad STS or a Jaguar XJ8 and relax to some dreamy music on the CD without the noise you get going through the gears. It will take just as long to get to the office, but you won’t mind it so much. No road rage allowed, none needed when you kick back and relax. Pull the Porsche out on weekends or better yet, during the week while others are not on the highways.

Handling & Performance:

Outstanding. Although, I was never totally confident in this all wheel drive since I spun out in one at Willow Springs race track with friend David Murray in the number two seat. I entered turn number three like David had on some lap’s before my turn at the wheel, but race drivers are professional and me, well, I like to go fast but don’t do it for a living. Before David could grab the wheel to help me out, we had already done a 360. No harm, no foul. Back to first gear and off we went into turn five. I think we spun through turn four.

Passing is no problem and you’ll go 0-60 in a scant 4.5 seconds without breathing hard, but your heart rate will climb. That’s a good thing because it replaces all forms of heart exercise.

Styling:

The 4S means all wheel drive but the rear fenders say it should be Turbocharged. The redesign for this year includes a slick looking front end, and it’s the wider rear panels and taillights that gives it the look of the $114,000 911 Turbo model. Beauty is only skin deep however and even though this is not the Turbo, you don’t really need it with 320 natural horsepower H6. The Air scoops look cool but they also greatly increase airflow to the cooling system.

Fit and Finish:

Typical Porsche, typical German – always precise.

Cost:

Way too much for my budget and not enough for the engineering you are buying. Way too much for transportation, but OK for the driving enjoyment for the sports car enthusiast.

Consumer Recommendation:

Be sensible, buy a Saturn for $9,000 and spend the other $77,000 on vacations around the world, for the two of you, each year for 11 years. You do the math. It’s insane to spend this much money for a car unless you are Donald Trump. But for you Don, get the Rolls and relax.

The Competition: * (see ranking below)

(1) Chevrolet Corvette $42-50,000, (2) Dodge Viper 72,000, (3) Acura NSX $89,000, (4t) Porsche 911 $67-179,000, (4t) Lotus Esprit $88,525, (5) Mercedes-Benz SL Class $85,990, (6) BMW Z8 $130,000, (7) Ferrari 360 $141-171,000, (8) Ferrari 550 Maranello $213,990, (9) Aston Martin V12 Vanquish $222,950, (10) Lamborghini Diablo $274,900.

* – Ranking is based on cost, cu ft, number of features, warranty and gas mileage.

Good News:

Great engineering, fast, fun to drive, and good resale value.

Bad News:

Expensive toy, hard to get in and out of, small cargo areas, albeit a set of golf clubs does fit in the rear compartment,

Standard Equipment:

3.6 liter H6 water cooled 320HP engine, diagnostic system, knock sensor, double inertial flywheel, 6-speed manual trans, hydraulic clutch, power steering, front and rear stabilizer bars, speed activated rear spoiler, 4-piston fixed allow caliper (vented and perforated disc) anti locking brakes, dual front and side airbags, stability management system, electronic gas pedal and automatic brake differential, power windows, heatable windshield washer nozzles, carbon filtered vent system, all leather full power heated front seats, central locking system, immobilizer anti-theft system, lockable storage compartment, climate control, power heated mirrors, power sliding roof with tilt, AM/FM cassette radio and Advanced Technic Package (includes special headlights, washers, Bose sound system and 6 changer CD player).

Gas Stats:

17 City and 24 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $85,645.
Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is joe@atthewheel.com
Copyright © 2002 – An Automotive Love Affair

2002 Chrysler Town & Country eX (406)

20-07-2002Autolove No comments

Overview:
This week we’ll look at the 2002 Chrysler Town & Country eX. I wish I could convince my kids with young families that vans are cool. They, like so many young folks, gotta have trucks, SUV’s and trendy sporty passenger cars. On the other hand, with so many manufacturers represented in the competition, it’s obvious they aren’t counting on my kids to make sales. A lot of folks must think as I do. This is the best Family Car option, hands down. They are roomy and have great options. The sliding doors (especially the power ones) give the best entry and exit functionality of any vehicle.

With the entertainment center this is a car for all ages. It’s the best for long trips, vacations etc., and it seconds as a small bus to haul the scouts, a soccer team or carting the kids and their friends to the beach.

Handling & Performance:

Typical for mini vans. Low slung, comfortable, corners well, and good power.

Styling:

Chrysler has to be one of the most innovative manufacturers in the world at this time. And it shows in all the vehicles in their lineup. Yes, they are a little “Cookie-Cutter” in design – like all were stamped out of the same mold, but they generally have bolder styling than much of the competition.

Fit and Finish:

Chrysler has made a huge leap in quality assembly this past decade and I believe it will only get better with their alliance with Daimler.

Cost:

Very close competitively and all are worth the price of admission.

Consumer Recommendation:

See the ranking below, because that is based on the facts and nothing but the facts, (Jack Webb in TV cop show Badge 714 – remember that famous line?) but as for me I love ‘em all. In fact this class gets the award for “Best Family Car”. But as to which one, if I had to choose? Well, the two most memorable are the #(3) Toyota Sienna and the #(5) Honda Odyssey.

The Competition: * (see ranking below)

(1) Mercury Villager $19-27,000, (2) Dodge Caravan $16-34,000, (3) Toyota Sienna $24-28,000, (4) Mazda MPV $22-27,000, (5) Honda Odyssey $24-28,000, (5) Nissan Quest $23-27,000, (6) Chevrolet Venture $22-34,000, (7) Oldsmobile Silhouette $27-36,000, (8) Pontiac Montana $25-34,000, (9) Ford Windstar $21-34,000, (10) Town & Country $24-38,000.

* – Ranking is based on cost, cu ft, number of features, warranty and gas mileage.

Good News:

Comfortable, lots of storage nooks and crannies, clean styling, roomy and powerful.

Bad News:

Tough to choose from such an impressive array of competitors.

Standard Equipment:

3.8 liter 215 horsepower V6, 4-speed automatic trans, front wheel drive, traction control, power liftgate, power right sliding door, 8-way power driver seat, dual air bags, child seat anchors, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, power steering, front and rear intermittent wipers, air conditioning, power widows & locks, cruise control, tilt steering column, AM/FM with cassette and CD player, trip computer, front and rear power outlets, keyless entry, power mirrors and roof rack.

Gas Stats:

18 City and 24 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $26,315.

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

2002 Volvo V70 Station Wagon (405)

14-07-2002Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week let’s take a look at the 2002 Volvo V70 Station Wagon. I had the opportunity of checking it out in New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. What a beautiful country America is. The gentle rolling hills of the east coast, and particularly the states we visited didn’t give the kind of rigorous tests I’ve done in the Rockies of Colorado, for example, but the terrain is similar to what most of us travel most of the time.

Thanks to the great air conditioning system, the July heat and humidity of New England was eliminated… until you had to stop. Well, we left Manhattan and traveled upstate all the way to Niagara Falls. Enroute we stayed in the Fingerlakes, Watkins Glen, Ithaca and surrounding areas. Beautiful. We stayed at a bed and breakfast on Seneca Lake and I can understand why New Yorkers talk so much about “Upstate New York”.

Handling & Performance:

Delightful. I have to say that I’m prejudiced and have always loved Volvo cars. They are well built and the solid feel adds to the confidence you get from the performance from the 247 horsepower 5-cylinder engine and seamless transfer of that power to the front drive wheels via a 5-speed automatic Geartronic transmission with “Adaptive Shift Logic”.

Styling:

Thankfully Volvo has smoothed out the lines over the past several years and they’ve done it beautifully.

Fit and Finish:

Exceptional. And when you think about it the way something looks is usually has a lot to say about how it will perform as well. There are exceptions, and Jaguar is a classic example in past years.

Cost:

Pricey but you get what you pay for. This is an elegant wagon that rivals or eclipses the Mercedes and other even more expensive wagons.

Consumer Recommendation:

Perhaps the best image in the family wagon market that projects safety and quality and it stands alone. You have to love the progression in styling over the years even if you are not a Volvo lover. This is in my top 3 list of cars in this class.

The Competition: * (see ranking below)
(1) Volkswagen Passat Wagon $23-39,000, (2) Subaru Legacy Wagon $20-24,000, (3) Volvo V70 Wagon $30-36,000, (4) Audi A6 Avant $38,000, (5) BMW 5 Series Sport Wagon $38-54,000, (6) Mercedes Benz E-Class Wagon $49,000.

* – Ranking is based on cost, cu ft, number of features, warranty and gas mileage.

Good News:

It’s a Volvo that projects safety and Swedish quality, first cabin luxury appointments and equipment, station wagon styling that is classy and projects the thoughtful character and personality of the owners, comfortable seating.

Bad News:

Sensitive window controls, small cargo area while using rear seats, pricey.

Standard Equipment:

2.3 liter 5 cylinder w/ variable valve timing, 247 hp engine, 5-speed automatic Geartronic trans, 4-wheel power ABS disc brakes, dynamic stability traction control, power steering, unibody construction, dual front and side airbags, whiplash protection system, anti theft ignition immobilizer system, security system, rear door wiper, child safety locks, side turn indicators, fog lights, cargo cover, 8-way front power seats with memory and lumbar support, dual zone climate control, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, rear center armrests, remote keyless entry, power windows, heated power mirror, power sunroof, leather shift knob and steering wheel, dust and pollen filter, lighted vanity mirrors, Dolby Stereo audio system with 4 in-dash CD and cassette players and steering wheel controls.

Gas Stats:

20 City and 26 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $36,425.

2002 Ford Escape (401)

12-06-2002Autolove No comments

Overview:
This weeks test vehicle was the 2002 Ford Escape SUV that carried me and the little lady on an “Escape” of our own. Over several rivers and through lots of woods to the Jensen’s we did go. But on the way we covered a lot of ground and as the miles ticked away I was impressed that we got 24 highway miles per gallon of gas. That’s what they claim, and that’s what we got.

Comfort was our major concern since we would be sitting for long stretches on each leg of our journey to Yellowstone, which I expect most American families have embarked on during their lives. I truly expected the seats on this Escape to be cheesy and uncomfortable, but that truly wasn’t the case, which I’m happy to report. In fact, the Cadillac Escalade EXT that took me to Oregon recently did have more substantial seats but at twice the price as this Escape. And to add insult to injury the Cad didn’t pass as many gas stations since it only got 15-mpg tops.

Escape is a direct competitor to the Jeep Liberty, in my view, which I tested in Oregon in November on an elk-hunting trip in the snow. The Liberty was a 4X4 as compared to this two-wheel drive Sport Ute, but as you probably know, only 5% of all SUV’s ever get used “Off-Road”. I never had the need to do any hill climbing on our vacation.

General Info:

Parts – USA

Assembly – USA

Class: – Special Purpose (SUV)

Cars: – Crown Victoria, Econoline, Escape, Explorer, Excursion, Expedition, F150, F250, F350, Focus, Mustang, Ranger, Taurus, Thunderbird, Windstar, ZX2.

Handling & Performance:

Over the passes and winding mountain roads this Ford was equal to all that was asked of it. It’s a good road car and I was pleasantly surprised with gas performance of 24 mpg. I never wanted for more power in any situation, and we were both impressed with the feeling of stability around those curves. Escape also comes with a 2.0 liter 127 horsepower engine that gets 3-4 miles per gallon of gas more than the 3.0-liter engine I tested.

Styling:

All Ford SUV’s – Escape through the largest Excursion have a solid looking, robust appearance. I like the design as well as any SUV on the market today.

Fit and Finish:

Very good and consistent with the competitors noted.

Conveniences:

A place for everything and everything in its place.

Cargo area is 33 cu ft as compared to 48 cu ft in its largest sibling Excursion and 4 cu ft more area than its rival Jeep Liberty. But it seems that no matter how much space you have, you find a way to fill it. Surely this was good for the two of us, but larger camping families will need to look at the larger models.

Yellowstone National Park, Jackson Hole’s Grand Teton National Park, Glacier International Park and Lake Tahoe, CA were host to our Escape and us. It was trouble free and afforded us the ability to haul all our camping equipment for our two-week escape from Los Angeles, CA and not even use the Roof Rack. Two-wheel drive is all we needed and unless you have the burning desire to get off road, the added gas mileage is a great trade off for the 2-wheel drive version. And if power is not an issue you can get close to 30 mpg with the smaller engine.

Cost:

The price must be right or it wouldn’t be the big seller it is. Surely it is at the top of the group as to average price, but the prices are close between what I consider comparing Liberty, Xterra and this Escape.

Consumer Recommendation:

I’ve tested all the competition listed below and in my view, the closest rivals include Jeep Liberty, Nissan Xterra and Ford Escape. For the money these three are my favorites.

The Competition:

(1) Kia Sportage $15-18,000, (2) Toyota RAV4 $17-18,000, (3) Chevrolet Tracker $16-22,000, (4) Hyundai Santa Fe $17-23,000, (5) Jeep Liberty $17-23,000, (6) Honda CR-V 19-22,000, (7) Mazda Tribute $18-24,000, (8) Suzuki Grand Vitara $19-23,000, (9) Nissan Xterra $18-26,000, (10) Subaru Forester $20-24,000, (11) Ford Escape $19-26,000, (12) Mitsubishi Montero Sport $23-33,000, (13) Isuzu Axiom $27-31,000.

Good News:

Spacious, good gas performance, smooth ride.

Bad News:

Ignition switch awkward to reach.

Gas Stats:

19 City and 24 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $23,000.

2002 Porsche Boxster S (400)

05-06-2002Autolove No comments

Overview:

This weeks test vehicle was the 2002 Porsche Boxster S that transports you to heaven if you love to drive. There is a God and that cloud does have a silver lining.

There is a little bit of the rebel in us all and so for me it is the “Boxster” Rebellion. If you have a need for speed and outstanding handling this is sure to make you break a few speed laws. Fortunately I get to drive most cars on the racetrack, but I must say it is near impossible to keep a car like this at or under the posted limits.

You know, when I first drove this car shortly after its introduction, I thought it would just be another 924 or 914. A series of attempts to market a less expensive version of this very nice sports car. But it wasn’t. It has its own personality as if it weren’t even a Porsche. Like you could put a Ferrari badge on it and fool some folks.

In his book “The Distance to the Moon”, James Morgan describes his travels across the United States in the very first Boxster. He said people treated him like he was a visitor from another planet. But mostly he got lots of thumbs up. Since its introduction it seems to have continue to attract the attention of car lovers everywhere. Another indication that it is a winner is how much it has been copied.

I like the car as much today as I did when I drove it in 1997. Well, one out of three attempts to produce a less expensive Porsche isn’t bad I suppose.

On the other hand, the price “has” jumped about $14,000 since my first review when the price for the 1998 was: MSRP = $39,980 plus $3,235 for the sport package. Porsche is in business to make money and it stands to reason that you get what the traffic will bear.

And you say, how did Boxster get that name? Well it derives from the “boxer” engine design and “roadster” from the open, two-seat design. It is, manufactured in Stuttgart, in the south of Germany. For you trivia buffs, “Automobile” is from the Greek autos, “self” and Latin mobilis, “movable”.

Handling & Performance:

You’ve heard of the Grim Reaper, well this is the Rim Gripper. Curves will never seem so welcomed as you drive this Boxster S and fall in love all over again. As we all know, relationships come and go, but this Boxster is there when you need it and it doesn’t talk back.

Styling:

This Boxster promises to be a fixture on the design scene for a long time to come. The mid-engine affords provision for two cargo areas, forward and aft. They are small but even golf clubs will fit in the rear compartment.

Fit and Finish:

Porsche. What can I say, it isn’t a Jaguar XK8, but it’s twenty to thirty grand less to buy.

Conveniences:

The convertible top is “Tops”. You gotta love how easy it is to put the top up and down in about 16 seconds.

Cost:

I guess it’s still an ok buy and I did expect it would go up after its introduction in 1997. But $14,000 plus in that time seems a bit excessive. I doubt Porsche was selling at a loss in the beginning? In any case, I gave it a “Buy” recommendation then because it was well priced. Unlike the Chrysler limited production Prowler that was selling about twice the window sticker I think you can buy this Boxster closer to the MSRP.

Consumer Recommendation:

If you are in the market for a “TWO SEATER” with room for golf clubs, tennis rackets and a small overnight bag for two this is the ticket. It’s an “E” ride and a class act. On the other hand it is the most expensive of competition listed in order of price (1)-(8).

Manufacturer Recommendations:

Thanks. We love what you’ve done.

The Competition: *

(8) Porsche Boxster S $57,825 , (4) Audi TT $31-40,000 , (5) BMW M Roadster $45,990 ,(6) BMW Z3 $31-38,000, (3) Honda S 2000 $32,400, (2) Mazda MX5 Miata $21-26,000 , (7) Mercedes Benz SLK $39-55,000 , (1) Toyota MR2 Spyder $23,735 .

Good News:

Affordable special styling in a sports car with great performance.

Bad News:

Price is at the high end of the scale with lots of good competition.

Standard Equipment:

3.20 liter 250 horsepower 6-cylinder water cooled mid-engine, two seat convertible, 6-speed manual trans, power steering, speed activated rear spoiler, 4-wheel antilock disc brakes, dual front and side airbags, fog lights, power top, anti-theft system, leather, climate control & power heated mirrors.

Gas Stats:

18 City and 26 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $57,825.

* – Cars are ranked in order of price alone instead of according to my preference considering all captions.

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