Tag Archives: 2003

2003 Jaguar XKR Convertible (459)

27-08-2003Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week I drove the 2003 Jaguar XKR Convertible on a trip around California. Being on the open road I got a great chance to experience the Adaptive Cruise Control package that was totally impressive. I know some other cars have it but I noticed the improvement since the last one I tested. It is unbelievably accurate. In addition it was equipped with a GPS Navigation system. Some day all cars will use similar technology so you should be able to put it on “Auto Pilot”. The technology is here, but just needs the infrastructure to catch up. Thanks to the folks who can afford to pay the big bucks for development of this kind of technology.

On the stupid side, the car comes equipped with a rear seat but what’s the point? With the front seats in a comfortable position there is virtually no legroom in the back. That’s zero, zip, nada. Without the seats you’d have more luggage room. Go figure.

Nephew Paul rode half way up central California with me and commented that this is definitely a “Chick Magnet”, and for some that’s all it will take to justify the purchase. But from another perspective it truly is a “Chick Magnet” for another reason… this is a car seriously preferred by women. Watch close at who is driving the next 100 Jags and I suspect it is 80% women.

The 2003 Jaguar XK Series is available in four trims: XK8 and XKR, both available as a coupe or a convertible. You’re gonna love this car.

Handling & Performance:

Awesome would be one adjective, while smooth, cool and elegant would help to define this sports car further. Handling is made easier with the inclusion of the Adaptive Cruise control package. That allows you to set the cruise and the system monitors and maintains the exact distance between you and the car, bus or truck in front of you. It will speed up if the car in front moves out of the way or speeds up, and it will brake when it needs to as traffic slows. It takes very little getting used to and I miss it already now that I’ve moved on to the next test car. I particularly like it because it will watch over you if your mind wanders for that split second that causes so many accidents. It truly makes a magical touring car out of the ordinary. It has two settings for Sport and Touring suspension.

Styling:

Jaguar has retained its distinctive look for all the years I can remember. There is no mistaking it’s a Jag. This has to be my favorite body style that is so reminiscent of the XKE in the 1960’s.

Fit and Finish:

The walnut burl wood dash is beautiful and it’s real. But you know, you can’t tell it from imitation plastic. That’s a bad thing or good if you consider how imitation component parts like this can be virtually as good as the real thing in appearance. Even if you tap on the surface you can’t really tell the difference. Everything fits well together as you’d expect for a car of this quality.

Conveniences:

The most obvious is the Adaptive Cruise Control mentioned above, but it also has sensors that tell you when you are close to objects around you. This can be annoying, but if it is you can turn it off. I can’t bitch too much, but I did find it inconvenient that the odometer is not visible while the cruise is on. The other inconvenience was the cup holder that is on the center console must be closed in order to open the storage space beneath.

If you must own a convertible they don’t get any better than this one. The old fashioned days when you knew it was a convertible from the inside are gone. The headliner is so good you wouldn’t know you’re in a convertible. On the other hand the headroom is limited with the top up. The top of the windshield gets in the way for me at 5 foot 9” so taller than that will surely be a problem.

Cost:

Priceeeeeeeeeeey. Ok, so they are out of reach for most of us but you DO get that old feeling of class. That has always been the case, but since Ford took charge you also get much better reliability according to the “Wrenches” I talk with.

Consumer Recommendation:

If this is in your price range you will want to include the Adaptive Cruise and the GPS Navigation system. And take a look at the Aston Martin for the best comparison for what you get for your money.

The Competition:

Jaguar XK Series $69-86,000, Acura NSX $89,000, Aston Martin DB7 Vantage $142-152,000, BMW Z8 $132-137,000, Lexus SC 430 $62,000, Mercedes Benz SL Class $86-113,000, Mercedes Benz CLK $44-69,000, Porsche 911 $69-182,000.

Good News:

Beautiful styling, powerful supercharged V8, ultra smooth touring ride and one touch power convertible top.

Bad News:

Useless rear seat, average mileage and pricey.

Standard Equipment:

4.2 liter 32 valve supercharged, intercooled 390 hp V8 engine, 6-speed automatic, dynamic stability control, Brembo abs disc brakes, computer active suspension, dual front and side airbags, remote keyless entry, driveway locking feature, anti theft engine immobilizer and security system, memory settings, burl wood walnut trim, power top with glass rear window, rain sensing wipers and reverse park control and optional Adaptive cruise control package.

Gas Stats:

16 City and 23 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $88,130.

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

2003 Honda Civic (458)

19-08-2003Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week I drove the 2003 Honda Civic sedan. I’m scheduling the Hybrid version as soon as I can get it because this has to be one of the most important topics of this century. A reader tells me we only have 15 years of oil at the present burn rate. Perhaps you can shed more light on that comment. But even if it’s 30 years, I have to wonder if we have done enough to alter the problem. I have a keen sense of the obvious which becomes more evident every time I have to gas up. 2003 has seen gas prices go up almost 100%. Further, it is obvious with world gas prices double those in the US, we’ll all be more interested in what car companies are doing to improve.

In August 2003 I attended a General Motors “Tech Tour” and drove the “Hy Wire” fuel cell prototype along with currently available fuel-efficient vehicles. Hydrogen surely sounds like the answer to our problem, but its development will give OPEC heartburn. At 60 to 90 miles per gallon from cars like this Honda Civic Hybrid version would be a good first step on the road to reducing high auto cost.

It is not so surprising that Los Angeles is re-developing mass transit. The future promises to be fraught with transportation problems if we don’t recognize and plan ahead.

Remember the 6-P’s of business? Prior Planning Prevents Piss Poor Performance.

Handling & Performance:

I just love driving these cars. Ok, so I love Ferrari and that whole high performance thing, but for simple transportation you can’t beat cars like this Honda Civic. The ride is smooth with adequate power even at 127 hp. The VTEC engine mirrors the growth in carmakers that employ Variable Valve Timing technology along with electronic controlled fuel injection. American cars are behind in changing its power plants. Why, I have no idea.

Styling:

Conventional. That means clean lines, no frills but no spills either. Cookie Cutter? I suppose so. But that’s not bad when you consider this is designed for getting you from point to point with the least amount of hassle.

Fit and Finish:

Very good.

Conveniences:

You usually can expect to get what you pay for, but with cars like this Honda Civic you get more than you pay for.

Cost:

Outstanding.

Consumer Recommendation:

Plan ahead. I hope my kids read this. Look at what’s happening around the world and be prepared. Take an interest and write car companies about your willingness to drive fuel-efficient vehicles. They truly need your encouragement. If you want send your comments to me and I’ll see they get to All Car companies.

The Competition:

Honda Civic $13-21,000, Chevrolet Cavalier $14-17,000, Daewoo Nubira $12,000, Dodge Neon $13-19,000, Ford Focus $13-19,000, Hyundai Elantra $13-14,000, Kia Rio $10,000, Mazda Protege $14-20,000, Mitsubishi Mirage $12,000, Nissan Sentra $12-17,000, Suzuki Esteem $13,000, Toyota Corolla $14-15,000, Toyota Prius $20,000, Volkswagen Golf $15-19,000.

Good News:

Outstanding fuel economy, fun to drive, good pricing and for many just being a Honda Car is good news enough.
Bad News:

Lightweight if you’re concerned about all the heavy SUV’s on the road that could squash you in an accident.

Standard Equipment:

1.7 liter 127 hp 4-cylinder engine, 4-speed auto trans, front disc rear drum ABS brake system, power steering, dual air bags, child seat anchors, anti theft system, remote keyless entry, air conditioning, stereo, cruise control power windows and locks, power moonroof with tilt and shade, power mirrors.

Gas Stats:

30 City and 38 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $17,860.

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

2003 Mitsubishi Montero 20th Anniversary (457)

12-08-2003Autolove No comments

Overview:

Ok, I’ve taken all I can and I can’t take no more. This week I drove the 2003 Mitsubishi Montero 20th Anniversary edition and that’s the last SUV for a couple of months. I do a lot of SUV reviews because they are so much in demand. But you know what? When I want to go camping or other outing I like having this class vehicle.

Ok, so it’s a crew cab truck with a camper shell on the back. But that’s what makes it so damn attractive to so many. Now if they could only put a fuel efficient, clean burning diesel engine in it so we could all afford to actually go on those outings and feed more than the gas tank.

I like to stay objective, so I don’t dwell on what I’d buy if it were the only car I could own. But at the end of the day we all do a better job selecting the car that suits us than what man or woman would be best. Funny thing is… they’re both emotional decisions. Or do you check your future mate for strong muscles, good teeth, broad shoulders to carry larger loads, or broad hips for ease of child bearing, etc.?

General Info:

Parts – 99% Japan, 1% US / Canadian.

Assembly – Minokamo, Japan

Class: – Special Purpose SUV Midsize

Cars: – Diamante, Eclipse, Endeavor, Galant, Lancer, Montero, Montero Sport, and Outlander.

Handling & Performance:

Unquestionably a comfortable ride comparable to the best. It felt a little bulky to me, but others characterize that feeling as big or solid. Big, solid or bulky, when you leave the gas pumps you’ll complain as I do about the massive amounts of gas required to feed these monster SUV’s.

Styling:

A departure from the conventional or is it rather odd looking; what do you think?

Fit and Finish:

Lose. Wide gaps. Have we finally westernized at least one Japanese car manufacturer with looser tolerances? The Germans are next. Reminds me of the classic difference between weapons produced by the Germans and the Americans in WWII. The US Army 45 Cal. Pistol would fire just fine after retrieving it from the mud, while the German Lugar would fail to fire if a speck of dirt was present.

Conveniences:

Well equipped but there is no free lunch folks. See you at the cash register. The third row seats neatly tuck away in the floor but access is rather limited. The best approach is through the rear door for people with short legs.

Cost:

Obviously at the top of the price range for this class of vehicle. Mitsubishi is reaching for the Luxury class but they haven’t yet developed the image. But I guess you have to start somewhere to set yourself apart from other competitors.

Consumer Recommendation:

Start complaining about poor mileage. It’s about time we raised a unified voice that we’re madder than hell and won’t take this any more. We know they can do better with performance but we haven’t put enough pressure on them. The revolt of the 1960’s made a statement and we ushered in the Japanese with their “basic”, “fuel efficient” cars to smack American carmakers in the chops. We did get better domestic cars, but not to be outwitted, American business sense rose to the occasion and beat back the revolution by buying foreign carmakers. Damn, I hate when that happens.

The Competition:

Mitsubishi Montero $32-38,000, BMW X5 $40-67,000, Dodge Durango $27-39,000, Ford Explorer $26-37,000, GMC Envoy $29-38,000, Isuzu Trooper $28-37,000, Jeep Grand Cherokee $27-39,000, Land Rover Discovery $34-40,000, Mercedes Benz M-Class $37-66,000, Nissan Pathfinder $27-34,000, Oldsmobile Bravada $34-36,000, Toyota Land Cruiser $54,000.

Good News:

Plush comfort, tuck away third row seats, lively acceleration.

Bad News:

Poor fuel economy, pricey for a Mitsubishi, Consumer Reports Bashing (poor safety test results a few years back) – that could affect resale.

Standard Equipment:

3.8 liter 215 hp V6 engine, 5-speed auto trans, leather, dual front and side air bags, child safety locks, anti theft immobilizer, traction control, 4-wheel drive, power abs disc brakes, power steering, air conditioning, infinity audio with 6 disc in-dash CD, power windows/locks and mirrors, cruise control, remote keyless entry, stowable 3rd row seats, power driver seat, heated front seats, 16 inch alloy wheels with all season tires, power sunroof.

Gas Stats:

15 City and 19 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $38,397.

2003 Suzuki XL-7 4WD LTD (456)

05-08-2003Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week I drove the 2003 Suzuki XL-7 4WD LTD, because SUV’s are simply the hottest vehicle on the market. It really is a phenomenon that may end up with everyone owning at least one. But no crystal ball and if gas prices go much higher you’ll see an exodus to fuel efficient small cars. As you may recall, about 40% of all vehicles on the road today are truck or truck-like in the form of the Sport Utility Vehicle.

These Truck frame products are the most profitable for a car company’s lineup and they will necessarily give people what they want. But what we want seems to ignore practical transportation cars. You know, those are cars that get 35+ MPG of gasoline with an initial purchase price of about $10,000 new. Ok, so you won’t impress your friends, but you will impress your banker and retirement fund administrator. But in the real world car buyers insist on putting their financial security (reserve cash) into auto industry related company bank accounts. Why do we do that? As always I love to hear from the “Real” people so drop me a line and I’ll share your views with other readers.

On a positive note, some car companies are now advertising programs where the prospective buyer can take the car home a day or two. I guess they are hoping you’ll like it in your driveway instead of theirs. I’ll be interested to see how that works out. On balance it sounds good for the consumer but costly for the dealers, especially if people abuse the car and thus the program.

Handling & Performance:

Comfortable, low center of gravity for stability, but very sluggish with the 183 horses and if you insist on quick starts off the line the bad mileage will turn to horrible.

Styling:

Wonderful. I rather like the Star Wars Storm Trooper look – especially with the Pearl White paint and clean, smooth lines. I liked the car from the git-go. It is the largest vehicle Suzuki has produced.

Fit and Finish:

For a car / SUV at this price range it is clearly a standout ready to do battle.

Conveniences:

Loaded! – As they used to say in the old days at a typical “high-pressure” sales lots. It was probably the 1950’s when car salesmen gave dealerships in California a bad name. That’s when transient migrant people from all over the US moved to California, the largest car market in the world, for jobs. Too many became car salesmen and the unsuspecting consumer was descended upon by hungry salesmen who glorified the automobile and impressed you with all the stuff that you just had to have. Conveniences were really few, by comparison with today’s gadget rich rides, so every innovative feature would garner a lot of attention, in the “good old days”.

There is third row seating for up to 7, but the rear two are tight and accessible for the “Little People”. They also fold forward nicely for a great cargo area. The door opens toward the curb to please 50% of the people, but at least it doesn’t open upward that allows stuff to fall to your feet and tick you off.

Cost:

Suzuki is here to play and so they priced this XL-7 to sell.

Consumer Recommendation:

Of the competition listed below this Suzuki is at the top of the heap. I took the 2002 Ford Escape for two weeks to Yellowstone Park, CA and although it was nice this 2003 Suzuki is beefier with more plush seats. For a long trip that could be a factor. On the other hand the Ford got 25 mpg on the road compared to 20 for this Suzuki so I didn’t complain about the Escape. I’m in the Montero as I write this so next week I’ll summarize its performance. So far I only see design and pricing issues in this class.

The Competition:

Suzuki XL-7 $20-25,000, Chevrolet Tracker $20-23,000, Ford Escape $19-26,000, Mazda Tribute $18-25,000, Mitsubishi Montero Sport $23-33,000.

Good News:

Classy styling, priced well for what you get.

Bad News:

Sluggish acceleration, lousy mileage.

Standard Equipment:

2.7 liter 183 hp V6 engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, 4WD 2-speed transfer case, ABS brake system, climate control, tilt wheel with remote radio controls, audio system with 6 disc CF player, cruise control, leather, third row seating, alloy wheels, power windows, locks and heated mirrors, power tilt and slide sunroof, remote keyless entry, 100,000 mile 7 year transferable power train warranty.

Gas Stats:

17 City and 20 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $26,299.

2003 Saturn ION (455)

28-07-2003Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week I drove the 2003 Saturn ION 4-door sedan that replaces the S-Series. My auto enthusiast nephew and colleague, Vince and I refer to cars like this as cookie cutter cars. The inference is that it means they are stamped out like cookies. But the ingredients are important as well as the design of the cutter and more so the care given to the production.

Yes, this Saturn car is a plain Jane to some and unassuming in its presentation. It is therefore unimpressive to folks that consider a car more than transportation in its simplest form. We’re such materialistic jerks if you really think about it. Always trying to impress other folks we don’t know and probably never will. I just had a long conversation with my daughter about the importance of who we are and now what we have to impress our neighbors. I put it this way. If you are embarrassed about the house you live in or the car you drive around your friends you don’t need a bigger and more expensive house and car…. You need new friends.

And with an economy car you can commute to work and keep more of the money you make all the way from purchase price to lower operating costs. The great mileage will help you make friends with this Saturn and you’ll probably acquire “more real” friends.

Handling & Performance:

Ok, so I gave this a tough test taking it from Los Angeles to Bass Lake, California. I tested the 5-speed manual shift transmission and it was a trooper climbing the hills with relative ease. It handled the corners with ease as well.

Styling:

Cookie Cutter, simple design, but some feel it is a “Patch work” of shapes and angles.

Fit and Finish:

Functionally acceptable. Now don’t get the wrong idea by that label. Components are not poorly assembled, but I don’t expect the precision look and feel of a Mercedes or Lexus. Suffice it to say the seams and assembly are clean and functional with user-friendly controls well placed for ease of use. I do have one bitch however, and that was a whistling wind noise from the rear widow. That will drive a body mad like Chinese Water Torture. So, drive the car with the windows down, up without the radio and with the Air on and off. If it’s an assembly bug, they’ll fix it.

Conveniences:

You know what, you don’t need the options noted below, but I’m beginning to find more and more reasons to have it the OnStar Communications system. The cost is really coming down and adds only $695 to the price tag. Why is it so good? Here’s one more reason: I’m driving up to a family reunion and I realize the battery on my cell is low and I forgot the 12-volt charger for the car. You know how much we’ve come to rely on cell phones and you know what I mean and the panic I felt. But wa-la I notice I have OnStar. I push the button and the concierge found a place closest to my route that not only was open, but also had the part in stock. I got off the highway, traveled two blocks, bought the charger, and was back on the road in ten minutes. Thank you Christine for the assist.

Cost:

Great pricing. Transportation doesn’t get much cheaper unless you ride a bicycle.

Consumer Recommendation:

If you’re a snob you would have stopped reading long ago. If you are looking for a solid economical car you’ll still be reading and if so, you should consider this very strongly for a good family commuter car that will serve you well at a fraction of the cost of the Jones’s high cost, low mileage SUV. Since 40% of all cars are SUV’s and trucks, I’ll hazard a guess you have at least one neighbor with at least one SUV. Go ahead; tell me I’m wrong.

The Competition:

Saturn Ion $11-16,000, Chevrolet Cavalier $14-17,000, Chrysler Sebring $20-30,000, Daewoo Nubira $12-14,000, Dodge Neon $13-19,000, Honda Civic $13-21,000, Hyundai Elantra $13-14,000, Kia Optima $16-19,000, Mitsubishi Lancer $14-29,000, Nissan Sentra $12-17,000, Pontiac Sunfire $15,000, Toyota Corolla $14-15,000.

Good News:

Roomy, great gas mileage, adequate power.

Bad News:

Whistling wind noise, cookie cutter styling and generally unexciting for me.

Standard Equipment:

2.2 liter 140 horsepower inline 4 cylinder engine, 5-speed manual transmission, power steering, front disc- rear drum brakes, dent resistant exterior panels, stainless steel exhaust, air conditioning, power locks, remote keyless entry, power windows and mirrors, cruise control, stereo with CD and Cassette players, adjustable steering column, rear defroster, auto headlights, remote trunk release, fold down rear seats, dual front air bags, rear door child safety locks, theft deterrent immobilizer, daytime running lights. Options: Power Sunroof, Leather and OnStar communications system for a total of $2,400.

Gas Stats:

26 City and 33 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $15,010.

2003 Mercedes Benz ML500 (453)

11-07-2003Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week I tested the 2003 Mercedes Benz ML500 Sport Utility. I didn’t have the occasion to play golf during the time I had the car, but I’ve got to tell you the snob appeal just went up a couple of points.

Now you can use the Mercedes Communications package (usually meant for emergencies), to make Tee Times on more than 300 golf courses through its Concierge Service. Well, excuuuuse meeeee. One-upsmanship, eh!

The M-Class Mercedes is available in the ML350, ML500 or the ML55 AMG trims. The modular engines are built entirely of aluminum, which seems to be a reemerging trend for many components using aluminum and other lightweight composites in the manufacture of many cars today.

The ride is stiff and much harder than I expected from a Mercedes. Naturally a softer ride is more comfortable but it also means that handling won’t be as good.

General Info:

Parts – n/a

Assembly – USA

Class: – Special Purpose / SUV

Cars: – C Class & Wagon, CL Class, CLK, E Class & Wagon, G Class, M, Class, S Class, SL Class & SLK.

Handling & Performance:

The all-wheel drive system is innovative in that it does not use locking differentials to maintain continuous traction. It uses the 4-ETS+ system already used in the make\’s other all-wheel drive vehicles: it includes an electronic system that uses the ABS sensors to control individual wheel rotation and that distributes power to the differential whose wheels have the most traction. For off-road driving, the ML is equipped with a dashboard button that activates a shorter axle ratio.

The height is almost 72 inches, as compared with 62 inches for the Audi, high and a wide 76 inches. Lexus chimes in at about 66 inches high. The Olds comes is the tallest at 74.5 inches but it is among the widest at 75.4 inches wide.

The high center of gravity gives this ML500 a feeling of cornering. I wasn’t happy with the jerky gas pedal and it was constantly annoying.

Styling:

My youthful years and early appreciation of the automobile began at a time when styles were pretty outlandish. Rear fender fins reached to the sky and bulges, scoops, fender skirts and way out anything you can imagine adorned the cars in the 1950’s and 1960’s. But that helped you distinguish one car make from the other. Today cars seem to blend into one another in a cookie cutter fashion with a few exceptions. Land Rover marches to a different drummer and continues to embrace the square box design.

Fit and Finish:

First class as is the case with all Mercedes products.

Conveniences:

Mercedes provides a third headrest for the rear seating area but the bad news is that it blocks the rear view for the driver.

Cost:

Pricing is at the upper end of the range for this class vehicle. SUV’s generally are high profit products. I have driven them all and if the name Mercedes is not a must for your family, the Olds Bravada and the Merc Mountaineer deliver a great option for less money.

Consumer Recommendation:

You’ll want to look closely at the competition because the price difference may not be justified outside of the badge of distinction.

The Competition:

Acura MDX $36-42,000, Audi Allroad Quattro $40-41,000, BMW X5 $39-67,000, Infiniti QX4 $35-36,000, Land Rover Discovery $34-40,000, Lexus RX 330 $35-36,000, Mercury Mountaineer $29-37,000, Oldsmobile Bravada $33-35,000.

Good News:

Powerful, good resale, high snob appeal.

Bad News:

Poor gas performance, narrow door openings, jerky gas pedal and rough ride.

Standard Equipment:

5.0 liter 288 horsepower V8 engine, 5-speed automatic trans, 4-wheel traction control with downhill system, climate control, leather with Burl Walnut Wood trim, power windows with express up and down control, leather heated front seats, cruise control, remote central locking, reading lights, 4 12 volt outlets, 5 folding cup holders, stereo with cassette, GPS navigation system with DVD, 220 lb roof rack, trip computer with compass, Tele Aid calling communications system, front and side air bags, front and rear side window bags, child seat anchors, 4-wheel abs disc brakes, front and rear fog lights, anti theft system.

Gas Stats:

14 City and 17 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $45,350.

2003 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 (452)

02-07-2003Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week I tested the awesome American as apple pie two-seater sports car Corvette. The Z06 is the cats meow and reminds me so much of brother John’s 1971 Daytona Ferrari in look and feel. But the amazing part is that Ferrari built their version over 30 years before.

But with a tune up on the Ferrari starting at about $3,000 it’s fair to say this Vette would be much more easy to own and operate. The mileage is good for a big 405hp V8 and the entry price is nearly half its closest competitors.

This Z06 only comes in fixed top and a manual six-speed transmission. “The body is composite polymer with a drag coefficient of 0.29. There is a lot of Aluminum to keep the car light. The engine is aluminum as well as the frame that cradles the engine and other mechanical components up front, plus the four control arms on the independent suspension are aluminum. Even the leaf springs are composite. The windshield is also mounted to an aluminum frame and that is part of the reason the car seems so rigid. I’m acutely aware of that because I bought a new 1991 Camaro convertible and it was the worst for creeks and groans at every twist and turn. For safety there is a steel roll bar built into the rear roof section.

General Info:

Parts – US

Assembly – Bowling Green, KY.

Class: – Two Seater

Cars: – Astro, Avalanche, Blazer, Cavalier, Corvette, Express, Impala, Malibu, Monte Carlo, S10 Pickup, Silverado, SSR.

1971 Ferrari 365 GTB 1971 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona Coupé

1990 Ferrari 365 GTB 1971 Corvette

Handling & Performance:

Muscle cars have become American icons in the sights and sounds of the past half-century. The low rumbling roar of Corvette, Dodge Viper and Mustang to name a few speak volumes for young men everywhere.

Remember the good old days when performance cars like the Vette would get 7-10 miles per gallon? Well that has changed because this powerful Vette gets three times the mileage from a gallon of gas. But you’ll find it hard to do with the awesome 0-60 mph in a scant 3.9 seconds. I gotta tell you, it is still exhilarating to feel those 405 horses apply the G- Force. It’s like a second honeymoon in my “Love Affair” with the automobile.

A little secret: As if 405 horsepower isn’t enough you can increase it 30 hp by changing the air cleaner. The Donaldson Black Wing eliminates GM’s governor. They cost about $250 and can be installed in an hour according to Chuck at Coast Corvette in Anaheim, CA. (714) 535-4000.

Styling:

By 1955 the Vette was a near bust and would have been abandoned if Ford hadn’t entered the Sports Car market with the Thunderbird. Sports cars were new to America and Corvettes 6-cylinder engine gave it a loser name. The addition of the V8 would finally power the Vette to success.

Fit and Finish:

Today’s Corvettes have improved so much since I was in Jr. High School. Those were impressionable years when cars were more important than girls. Come to think about it… well that’s another story.

Conveniences:

… or inconveniences – like the low-slung body that makes entry and exit impossible to negotiate without looking awkward. But once you’re in, the ergonomics are quite easy to love. Everything falls quickly to your fingertips, not hard to imagine considering the cozy confines of the interior. The gearshift is right there at the end of your arm; and you’ll love the way it shifts.

The cargo area loads from the top, but a large set of golf clubs fits perfectly so I won’t complain.

Cost:

The Corvette at $50,000 is well priced in its class, and doesn’t even give up much for that distinction. If memory serves me the Acura NSX first year pricing was in the $30,000 range and quickly escalated to $90,000 today. The 500 hp Viper is the most similar competition at nearly $80,000.

Consumer Recommendation:

If you are into the fast lane and love to show your stuff, this is the best buy of any foreign or domestic sports car. You simply can’t get more horsepower and performance for the money than the Corvette Z06.

The Competition:

Acura NSX $89,000, Dodge Viper $79,995, Ferrari 360 Modena $143,860, Lotus Esprit $90,825, Porsche 911 $69-182,000.

Good News:

Spectacular pricing for such a capable and beautifully presented sports car. Great gas performance and brakes that will stop on a dime and give you 91/2 cents change.

Bad News:

Awkward entry and exit, poor turning radius and rear visibility.

Standard Equipment:

5.7 liter 450 horsepower V8, 6-speed manual trans, traction control, 4-wheel ABS power disc brakes, power speed sensitive steering, remote keyless entry, theft deterrent system, power heated mirrors, stereo with CD, climate control, computer stats, cruise control, leather, tilt leather wrapped wheel, 6-way power seat, remote trunk and fuel door.

Gas Stats:

19 City and 28 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $51,435.

2003 Mercedes Benz C 320 Coupe (451)

18-06-2003Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week I tested the entry-level 2003 C Class, C 320 coupe. Someone asked me recently as people often do, “What car do you think is the Best”?

You know, that is a very difficult question. Sure I can easily respond, Ferrari, or Lamborghini of which I’ve owned and driven various models. But there are too many variables that go into the answer. Forget money or application of the car for your need and the answer gets easier. But that isn’t the real world, even in Hollywood or other places where lots of fast lane folks make quick money and spend it faster.

At the end of the day if I wanted an all around wonderful handling car that makes me feel secure and safe, instills confidence that it will run well for a long time, provide some prestige and pride of ownership I always come back to Mercedes. I’ve owned two of them and felt it provided an image of success.

Of course I was young and impressionable and agreed with the world’s view of success. Not true I’m happy to say. When daughter Jenny told me she wanted a bigger and better house because, as she said, “I feel bad when friends visit our little house”. I suggested that if she felt that way she needs new friends. You shouldn’t feel you are being judged on what you have, but rather for who you are. Where you live and what I drive shouldn’t be the benchmark of how successful you are or what a good person you are.

My friend Winston (not Churchell) says when we make it you’ll be riding in the Bentley. Somehow that speaks volumes on how important cars have become to defining our persona. Sad, eh?

General Info:

Parts – n/a

Assembly – Germany

Class: – Compact

Cars: – C Class & Wagon, CL Class, CLK, E Class & Wagon, G Class, M, Class, S Class, SL Class & SLK.

Handling & Performance:

The C 320 resembles the parent but is still a scaled down version for entry into the world of Mercedes-Benz. Remember the Porsche 914? It was an attempt at making Porsche affordable. I think Mercedes has done a better job with a less expensive version. The Porsche 924 that followed wasn’t much better.

On another note I was a bit annoyed by the function of the gas pedal. You apply the gas and there is a pause before the engine gets the message.

Styling:

Mercedes. What else needs to be said? Its design is distinctive and classy even on a miniature scale of this youthfully designed entry level Benz. Then there is a wide and complete progression of the Mercedes line. You can now enter the brand with relative affordability.

Fit and Finish:

Pretty representative of the breed.

Conveniences:

The hatchback is good, if you like hatchbacks, but the rear window does not have a wiper, and that is NOT good. I can’t imagine how they missed the need for that.

Cost:

You enter the MBZ world for about $28,000 and work your way up to over $125,000. Or you can buy 11 or12 Kia Spectra’s for the same money. Boy, that gives a whole other meaning to automotive transportation.

Consumer Recommendation:

If you will stretch, financially, for one of these and buy a junk for your spouse, you may want to consider two less expensive cars like the Kia Spectra.

The Competition: Hatchbacks

Mercedes-Benz C 320 $28,020, Honda Civic Si $19,000, Honda Insight $19-21,000, Hyundai Accent $10-11,000, Toyota Celica $17-22,000, Hyundai Elantra $13-14,000, Volkswagen New Beetle $15-18,000.

Good News:

Nice youthful styling, powerful, quality safety and design features.

Bad News:

No rear window wiper, odd controls for cruise & radio, difficult seat adjustment and funky gas pedal.

Standard Equipment:

3.2 liter 215 hp V6 engine, 6-speed manual trans, climate control, cloth upholstery, leather tilt and telescopic steering wheel with multi function controls and shift knob, cruise control, cassette radio, 3-way adjustable front seats, power windows, auto headlights, trip computer, 24 hour roadside assistance program, dual front and side airbags, antitheft alarm with engine immobilizer & anti tow, ESP Electronic Stability Program and anti slip regulation, 4-wheel power assist disc brake system. Options: Special paint, leather upgrade, 5-speed auto trans.

Gas Stats:

19 City and 25 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP plus options $31,440.

2003 Chevrolet Impala LS Sedan (450)

11-06-2003Autolove No comments

Overview:
This week I went the extra miles to test the 2003 Chevrolet Impala LS Sedan, so I went on the road through the central valley of California, up through Monterey / Carmel, the beautiful State Capitol – Sacramento, the breathtaking Mount Shasta and the blue, blue lake it forms.

Then north to Alaska… just kidding, actually northeast to Klamath Falls, Oregon. The ad you older critters will remember is the song “see the USA… in your Chevrolet – America the greatest land of all…” Jingles were the sounds of the mid century. Remember the Mission Pak jingle? “Say the magic word, say Mission Pak, and it’s on its merry way. No gift so right, so gay, so bright, give the Mission Pak magic way.” I used to be a Public Accountant and worked on the audit of Mission Pak and met the man who wrote that jingle.

When I can squeeze in a road trip I do it to get the real flavor of how good a road car I’m testing. This Impala didn’t let me down. It was comfortable and the ride was solid. In comparison I just received an email from a reader who just bought a 2003 VW Beetle and agreed with my criticism of the seat construction. I think I said the seats were horrible in that 2002 VW Beetle that I drove through the Pacific Northwest. But it was clear the seats were a problem in the first 30 miles. The real problem is that even though the reader bought a year newer 2003 the seats were still uncomfortable in his opinion. I can only conclude that reader and I must be the only two who have complained about the seats in the Beetle. Otherwise I’m sure VW would surely fix them.

General Info:

Parts – US, Canada.

Assembly – Oshawa, Ontario, Canada

Class: – Large

Cars: – Astro, Avalanche, Blazer, Cavalier, Corvette, Express, Impala, Malibu, Monte Carlo, S10 Pickup , Silverado, SSR.

Handling & Performance:

For the money this Impala is a great road car. Lots of power from the 200 horses available to pull the mountains and hills over the pass from LA to Bakersfield referred to as the Grapevine, as well as the mountain gateway Siskyou’s between California and Oregon.

Styling:

Cookie cutter – that is so typical of cars today. Unexciting but nice.

Fit and Finish:

Very Good.

Conveniences:

Trunk entry is a little cumbersome with the high opening and the protruding bumper. I kept getting my clothes dirty reaching in.

Cost:

Competitive and in line with inflation. You may recall that money doubles every 10 years at 7%. I bought a new Chevy Malibu in 1967 for $2,500. You do the math and it should come out at $26,000. Today’s Malibu has an MSRP $18-20,000, so there is a lot of value for the money in today’s cars.

Consumer Recommendation:

Price shop this one, because this class of family sedan competition will push hard for the sale and you’re literally in the drivers seat.

The Competition:

Mitsubishi Galant $18-24,000, Ford Taurus $20-24,000, Honda Accord $16-28,000, Toyota Camry $19-25,000, Chevrolet Impala $21-24,000, Subaru Legacy $20-25,000, Dodge Intrepid $21-25,000, Buick LeSabre $26-31,000, Oldsmobile Intrigue $23-28,000, Chrysler Concorde $23-29,000, Nissan Maxima $27-29,000, Volkswagen Passat $22-38,000, Pontiac Bonneville $27-34,000.

Good News:

Good mileage, good price, comfortable, roomy, powerful.

Bad News:

Difficult access to trunk space.

Standard Equipment:

3.8 liter 200 hp V6 front wheel drive engine, 4-speed auto trans, 4-wheel independent suspension with abs disc brakes, traction control, tire inflation monitor, theft deterrent system, daytime running lights, rear child seat latch, fog lights, power trunk opener, power mirrors, dual zone air conditioning, cruise control, tilt leather wrapped steering wheel, power windows and locks, remote keyless entry, stereo with cassette, cloth seats, 6-way power driver seat, split folding rear seat.

Gas Stats:

19 City and 29 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $24,135.

2003 Saab 9-3 ARC Sedan (448)

28-05-2003Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week I tested the Saab 9-3 Sedan. I hope the ignition system isn’t as complicated in their jet fighters. A message keeps coming up that the steering wheel is locked. What happened to the good old days when things that should be simple were simple? Today we think we have to be cleaver and new or different.

But different isn’t necessarily better. We use high tech for things that take much less time to do the old fashioned way. Consider the radio controls on most cars. Simple knobs should be used for volume and tuning instead of trick buttons that are more difficult to use.

My honey asked what cars compete with this Saab. She obviously doesn’t read my column. “Well dear, the competition for this car include such cars as Mercedes and BMW…” I’m not sure she considered it a luxury car, but it really is, in my view.

The 9-3 comes in three models – Linear, ARC and Vector in order of lowest to highest sophistication and pricing.

General Info:

Parts – Majority Sweden, some from Germany.

Assembly – Trollhattan, Sweden

Class: – Sport Sedan

Cars: – 9-3 and 9-5 sedans, convertible and wagon.

Handling & Performance:

Very good for the most part, but there was an annoying power surge at stop and go operation. It appeared to be caused from the gas pedal activation.

Styling:

Very clean lines that are classic and distinctively Saab, albeit with slight changes influenced by the company’s new owner, General Motors.

Fit and Finish:

Swedish quality that is quite good.

Conveniences:

I love gadgets and the moisture sensitive windshield wipers are really cool if you chose the touring package for $1,195 that includes this feature.

Cost:

Base price on this ARC Sedan is just under $30,000 but you can add some options, like auto trans $1200, sport wheel package for 17 inch wheels and sport suspension for $1295, Touring package with rain sensing wipers, in-dash 6-disc CD Changer for $1195, power glass sunroof for $1100, heated front seats $495 and metallic paint for $475.

Consumer Recommendation:

The competition is all very capable and I’d have a hard time choosing, but my favorite is the Cad CTS because of the exciting styling.

The Competition:

Saab 9-3 $26-40,000, Acura TL $29-33,000, Audi A4 $25-42,000, BMW 3-Series $30-44,000, Cadillac CTS $30,000, Chrysler 300M $29-33,000, Infiniti I35 $29,000, Lincoln LS $32-44,000, Mercedes Benz C-Class $25-50,000, Volkswagen Passat $22-38,000, Volvo S60 $26-33,000.

Good News:

Nice ride, one touch power windows up and down front and rear, split folding rear seat with pass through to a large trunk.

Bad News:

Poor ignition system, complicated audio controls, surge in acceleration.

Standard Equipment:

2.0 liter 4-cylinder turbocharged 210 hp engine, 6-speed manual trans (test vehicle had optional 5-speed auto trans for an addition of $1,200 to the MSRP), traction control, power antilock disc brakes, Electronic stability program (ESP), dual front air bags, front and rear side airbags, anti theft system, keyless remote, leather, air conditioning, power windows with express up and down, power heated mirrors, rear seat fold or 60/40 split with pass through armrest, computer information system, cru8ise control, tilt wheel, audio with CD player with steering wheel controls,

Gas Stats:

21 City and 30 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $29,995.

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