The Car Thread ... !

[D.T.]

Alfa Romeo 4C Spider $66k
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Anyone drive one of these? If so, I'd like to hear your impression. Is there a trunk? Yes, I should probably go to the dealer and test drive it.

Very tiny (haven't driven one, but rooted around in one at a showroom), limited dealer network, personally if I was shopping something like this I'd do either:

1) Boxster S

2) Miata, extra wheels/tires, 6 HPDEs, trailer, a 3-4 year old SUV to tow it ...

 

[jca24]

Very tiny (haven't driven one, but rooted around in one at a showroom), limited dealer network, personally if I was shopping something like this I'd do either:

1) Boxster S

2) Miata, extra wheels/tires, 6 HPDEs, trailer, a 3-4 year old SUV to tow it ...

Awesome advice, between the dealer network, quality and well you know...

 

[T Coma]

Show cars aside and back to daily use...

This glossy black duo has been unstoppable since both were new in '99. So why mess with success?

 

[0388631]

A Taco. DT is going to go nuts over it. Especially since it's a TRD model.

 

[bunnspecial]

Well, unfortunately after 9 years of ownership and 95,000 miles with my rear in the seat, I'm afraid that my LS is not long for this world.

Got involved in a 5-car pile up on the way home today. Fortunately, I'm perfectly alright aside from a sore shoulder. The car is also driveable-there was a puddle of oily liquid with no smell on the ground, but I have no idea where it came from-the engine has plenty of oil pressure, and all the accessories, including the A/C work. Mechanically, it's fine. The hood and front bumper are gone, and the passenger airbag blew and took out the windshield(not sure why the driver side didn't blow, but I'm not complaining). I was tempted to drive it home(1 mile) but the officer on scene pointed out that the driver bag could go. I had the wrecker take it home, and drove it into the driveway.

So, chances are at about 110% that it's a total, and unfortunately I'm most likely at fault.

 

[0388631]

Probably brake fluid. Sucks about the car. But at least you aren't hurt. Can't be too hard to find one of these, can it? Could always buy yourself an old Lexus LS.

 

[bunnspecial]

Don't think it was brake fluid as any breach in the hydraulic system will usually give complete brake failure. I thought it might be P/S fluid, but the power steering is fine. Also thought it could have been A/C compressor oil, so that doesn't work.

Whatever the case, quite a while ago my dad offered me a screaming deal on his 2010 MKZ so that's going to be what I do. Still doesn't change my temptation to find a little old lady LS...although the newest ones are 11 years old now

 

[0388631]

I've never been a fan of the grills on those MKZs. Regardless, I'd take the car if I were you. At least you know how it's been driven and treated/maintained. I take it your dad will finally live out his fantasy of getting something high powered, like a Corvette?

In other developments, Hyundai are wishful believers.

http://www.motortrend.com/news/2018-genesis-g80-starts-at-42725-3-3t-sport-priced-from-56225/

 

[T Coma]

Front end damage? I'd say it's coolant. Clear (at least on the ground or your fingers), little to no smell, and an oily texture. BTDT, more than once...

 

[bunnspecial]

Thanks @Zenithal for trashing my next car before I even have it...

My dad already has his next car-an MKS that he absolutely loves. He got his sports car itch out of his system when he bought his Porsche 20 years ago.
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Front end damage? I'd say it's coolant. Clear (at least on the ground or your fingers), little to no smell, and an oily texture. BTDT, more than once...

That was my thought as well, but it doesn't have the sweet smell like coolant.

Owning a British car has made me pretty adept at recognizing fluids on the ground

Getting the hood open will probably be a project for tomorrow, and then I should be able to tell what it is.

Maybe I'm being a cheapskate, but I'm also to be getting out the full tank of premium that I'd bought 15 minutes before.

 

[0388631]

Right. Honestly, unless you saw it dripping, it could have been from the car in front of you prior to the accident. If you have a sample of it still, you could try burning it or sniffing it. A trick I was taught a long time ago by a really old mechanic who's long since passed. Really useful when you go offroading. Does your dad still have said Porsche? Was it a 993?

Not sure why you think you're being a cheapskate about the fuel. Premium isn't cheap, at least it isn't here. How do you plan on removing it though? Anyway, my plans for the weekend are to change the air filters in my car. Service costs are stupid high for something so simple. Also picking up my new tools from Orange Box. Service pool filters. Change out weather stripping on doors and windows. Lot's of fun to be had.

 

[Huntn]

Very tiny (haven't driven one, but rooted around in one at a showroom), limited dealer network, personally if I was shopping something like this I'd do either:

1) Boxster S

2) Miata, extra wheels/tires, 6 HPDEs, trailer, a 3-4 year old SUV to tow it ...

It's just a whim...

 

[D.T.]

Show cars aside and back to daily use...

This glossy black duo has been unstoppable since both were new in '99. So why mess with success?

A Taco. DT is going to go nuts over it. Especially since it's a TRD model.

Well, it's hard to fault Toyota trucks (and I include our T4R in that "truck" category)

I just got my Dad's '08 Taco on the way to being sorted out, long story of records, insurance and TSBs (and bit sad for me ...) but part of me wants to just keep it in the family, maybe do it up a little for an alternate beach/tow vehicle.

Got involved in a 5-car pile up on the way home today. Fortunately, I'm perfectly alright aside from a sore shoulder.

This is the only part that matters Dang, glad you're OK!

It's just a whim...

You should've just run out and bought one, questioned the decision in 6 months

 

[Huntn]

Well, it's hard to fault Toyota trucks (and I include our T4R in that "truck" category)

I just got my Dad's '08 Taco on the way to being sorted out, long story of records, insurance and TSBs (and bit sad for me ...) but part of me wants to just keep it in the family, maybe do it up a little for an alternate beach/tow vehicle.



This is the only part that matters Dang, glad you're OK!



You should've just run out and bought one, questioned the decision in 6 months

That is hilarious.

 

[A.Goldberg]

Well, unfortunately after 9 years of ownership and 95,000 miles with my rear in the seat, I'm afraid that my LS is not long for this world.

Got involved in a 5-car pile up on the way home today. Fortunately, I'm perfectly alright aside from a sore shoulder. The car is also driveable-there was a puddle of oily liquid with no smell on the ground, but I have no idea where it came from-the engine has plenty of oil pressure, and all the accessories, including the A/C work. Mechanically, it's fine. The hood and front bumper are gone, and the passenger airbag blew and took out the windshield(not sure why the driver side didn't blow, but I'm not complaining). I was tempted to drive it home(1 mile) but the officer on scene pointed out that the driver bag could go. I had the wrecker take it home, and drove it into the driveway.

So, chances are at about 110% that it's a total, and unfortunately I'm most likely at fault.

View attachment 697077

My deepest condolences for your loss. I know how special the LS was to you. It sucks how little damage can total a car that's otherwise in good shape. But life goes on, nothing lasts forever, and I'm relieved to hear you are okay.

I know you are rather Lincolnophillic, but if you decide your dads car isn't for you check out an old Hyundai Genesis. They seem to fit your general likes- bigger size, RWD, V8 option (2 actually), quirky appeal, all the standard luxury amemtities for the most part, good warranty, fairly soft. You can get them for a steal too. A buddy of mine is on a budget and is checking them out. The RWD in New England is bit of a drawback. Are you sure you'll be happy with a FWD Lincoln

Could I interest you in a 2009 535i xDrive perchance?

Sorry again for your bit of bad luck. Enjoy the new Lincoln if that's what you decide.

 

[bunnspecial]

My deepest condolences for your loss. I know how special the LS was to you. It sucks how little damage can total a car that's otherwise in good shape. But life goes on, nothing lasts forever, and I'm relieved to hear you are okay.

I know you are rather Lincolnophillic, but if you decide your dads car isn't for you check out an old Hyundai Genesis. They seem to fit your general likes- bigger size, RWD, V8 option (2 actually), quirky appeal, all the standard luxury amemtities for the most part, good warranty, fairly soft. You can get them for a steal too. A buddy of mine is on a budget and is checking them out. The RWD in New England is bit of a drawback. Are you sure you'll be happy with a FWD Lincoln

Could I interest you in a 2009 535i xDrive perchance?

Sorry again for your bit of bad luck. Enjoy the new Lincoln if that's what you decide.

Thanks Ari.

The Genesis has actually come in my crosshairs.

My dad is basically offering the MKZ to me for a virual give-away price considering how it's been kept and how few miles are on it, and I'd be foolish to turn it down esp. considering that I'm funding the MGA now also.

A front wheel drive Lincoln does seem wrong to me, but I've still logged a decent number of miles on this car and know it fairly well. I know that it can hold 15 G4 towers, too

LSs are cheap enough now that I'm going to be keeping my eyes open for a nice lower mileage one.

 

[2298754]

Could I interest you in a 2009 535i xDrive perchance?
.

How about $500? I'll even throw in a CCF gift card!

 

[0388631]

I'd kill for some cheesecake now.

 

[Huntn]

Purchased my new car this weekend, its a 2016 Mazda MX-5 Convertible Grand Touring, I absolutely love it. Not only is it a good looking car, but it is very fun to drive.

Took it for a little drive through Red Rock Canyon National Park on Sunday

View attachment 696657

View attachment 696658

Nice looking car. I'll say nicer than the new Fiat Spider... Does it have any vroom sound?
[doublepost=1492981938][/doublepost]

I've spent a couple of years getting free oil changes as part of a warranty. Now I have to pay and the price seems to run $40-60, the high end dictated by synthetic oil. So I'm going to revert to old habits and do my own oil changes. I ordered a small jack, simply because my Fiat 500 is so low to the ground, there is no other way to get under there to remove a panel held on by 6 bolts to get at the drain. This video was helpful. In my experience the Fiat has some unique requirements for oil changes. :

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A question about petroleum vs synthetic oil- is synthetic oil vastly superior? I've always resisted because of the higher price.
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What is badge whoring? Are you saying they are using the name for an inappropriate chassis?

Not a bad looking 4 door.

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Changed my oil today on my Fiat 500. My girlfriend got impatient.

Taking the pan off the bottom of the engine is doable. I purchased a $60 auto jack from Amazon which worked fine for my purposes. Purchased six Mopar filters on Amazon for about $6 each approx, 40% less than local purchase.

The video I watched implied you could stick a 2' extension though a hole near the headlamp, and get a 27mm socket onto the oil filter cover to unscrew it. Well, not quite, you need a universal joint to do it right. A quick run down to Ace Hardware and I got one. I did not realize Ace is selling Craftsmen tools now. Has Sears sold off the brand?

You also have to be careful not to drop the socket, which must be attached to the extension after it's pushed though the hole. You'll never get you hand down to the bottom of the engine compartment. My recommendation is to leave the car jacked up and the bottom engine pan off until changing the filter out in case you have to go searching for a dropped socket. Yes, I dropped it.

The biggest pain was getting the filter out of the engine compartment once it is unscrewed. Things are so tight in there, you practically have to bend things to get it out. 5 Qts of Quaker State Synthetic oil at Walmart was $20. I need to check Costco for a price comparison.

 

[A.Goldberg]

Took a ride over to one of the local Jaguar dealer to check out the F-Pace. I test drove the 35t (3.0L 6cyl supercharged) and 20d (2.0L 4cyl models turbo diesel). Of course the salesman strategically had me test the 35t first, as the diesel is much less invigorating. The S-trim is on my radar but did not test drive, it has a few more ponies than the 35t. There is also a 2018 25t model coming out. I'd really like the TD6 from LR as an option as the 20d is somewhat lethargic (0-60 in 8.2 seconds)

Overall I was impressed with the ride... very agile for an SUV. It certainly lacked a rugged feel I tend to like in my SUVs. The ergonomics seemed pretty good, interior quality not quite like the Germans but not bad. The cockpit did feel a bit tight size wise and rear visibility not surprising was awful.

The trim levels and option packs are a bit crazy, like radar cruise control only being available on the S-trim.

It's easy to go overboard with checking off the options with cars. I definitely want the upgraded infotainment, heated windshield, HUD and vision pack (blind spot, autonomic braking)... probably adaptive suspension as it's only $1000 (granted a reliability concern later on).

To get the radar cruise I have to upgrade from the Prestige to S trim, which in the end costs like $5000... which is a little crazy. The 2018s will have portfolio trim that might make more sense- due in the next month or so. The cheaper prestige trim is very limited with its interior color choices... back to the trim level craziness.

 

[0388631]

Have you considered the upcoming GLC AMG?

 

[A.Goldberg]

I did not realize Ace is selling Craftsmen tools now. Has Sears sold off the brand?

Yes, I believe back in January Sears sold Craftsman to Stanley/Black&Decker and will now sell the brand inside and outside of Sears. Unfortunately Craftman and most Stanley hand tools are now made in China.

Honestly looking at how departments stores are going Sears probably would have been better off selling Sears and keeping Craftsman . Sears' days are numbered. Selling Craftsman was not some brilliant "restructuring" plan, it's a band aid of cash to delay the inevitable.
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Have you considered the upcoming GLC AMG?

AutoUnion has been pressuring me to look at the GLC43. Frankly I'm not to impressed with the aesthetics. Jaguar is better on the pricing too. I'm really not looking for extreme performance. If I went with Mercedes I'd probably get an E43 (I'd like to see an E400 sedan thank you)... or a Galanderwagon.

Sigh, all I really want is a Touareg with TDI, V8, or at least a decent V6 with a low range transfercase and air suspension. Or an XC90 with a 6 or 8cyl. I'd prefer something with luxury features and build without the ostentatious badging.

 

[0388631]

Craftsmen was good back in the day when their stuff was US made. Personal tools wise, I have a mix of SnapOn and Mac. I tend to stick with robust brands.

Anyway, the GLC43 is a great little car, but the GLC63 is supposed to be heavenly. I recall you stating you and yours won't be having kids for a while, and it might be a great fit for you. I don't think BMW or Audi offer something that small and that powerful. Your other choices are the new Stelvio, which would mean you only being able to drive the car once a month while it spends 29 days in the service bay or the Macan. The Macan's a hot little number but if I were your age, again, it wouldn't be in my crosshairs because the cost to option it out to my liking now or what I liked at your age would put the cost through the roof.

The GLC43 compared to the competition is a quality vehicle. If you plan on financing it, you can pick up an extended warranty and probably get the most warranty for little if you negotiate. I know Auto Union places a huge emphasis on infotainment, but I don't, though I will concede BMW's is quite good (better than Audi's for me) and inspired Mazda to make their's similar. I think you'll be very happy with the GLC43. OTOH, if you're in no rush, BMW is supposed to release an X3 M using the engine from the M3/M4.

German pricing goes Porsche, Mercedes, BMW, Audi. BMW will nickel and dime you for options standard with other brands, but they're supposed to be a driver's company. Despite their changes, a modern BMW does feel very different to other German brands, excluding the 911, because that's the gold standard.

Mercedes charges the most outside of Porsche, but is also noticeably better. I've driven the new 7 series and it can't touch the S Class in comfort, quality and ride. But then again, it's not supposed to. It's the driver's version of the S Class. If neither interest you, the S8+ is possibly the best bang for your buck, even though it's in dire need of updates, and who knows when the D5 is supposed to come out. I think what you should do is gather the info booklets the dealers give to you. Sit down with AU and he can help you make a choice. You have a vast choice in this vehicle class. If you're leasing, it won't matter, but if you plan on financing, then you need to think long and hard about your decisions.

OTOH, it'd be easier to get a Sienna and have 9 kids, which should delight your parents.
[doublepost=1493005272][/doublepost]Alternatively, get a GT3 build slot and let AU borrow the car during the weekend.

 

[A.Goldberg]

Craftsmen was good back in the day when their stuff was US made. Personal tools wise, I have a mix of SnapOn and Mac. I tend to stick with robust brands

My father, like his father, has quite the tool addiction for some reason. His hand tools are generally New Britian/Blackhawk (back when New Britain, CT was the tool capital of the US... I think they were eventually bought by Stanley), Snap On, Mac, Proto, SK. He also has about 2,000sq ft+ of wood shop in the basement... it's a bit nuts. For the most part, they don't make tools like they used to, it's amazing how cheap most/all the stuff is they sell at Home Depot.

Like I said, I'm not exactly in need of an ultra high performance engine... I just want to have a little oomph. I admit I'm spoiled with the 535... what a great little engine that thing has. Really anything under 7 seconds I think I'm okay with. I'd prefer not to have a 4cyl... call me old fashioned.

The Macan is a nice little package, loads of them around here... but a little smaller than I'd like. I'd probably go with a CPO Cayenne over a Macan. But I'm not sure I want that much flash... or the maintance costs or inevitably insane insurance rates. I as much as I enjoy fine automobiles I don't want to come off as too ostentatious. Even the Jaguar is an it much, but at least it comes with a good warranty.

I'm probably going to be self financing the car through myself. I have no debt, good credit, minimal expenduratures (basically rent + utilities split with the GF), a second income through my business, and a solid nest egg of savings, investments, and trust. I could go out and buy a GT3 but it's really a matter of reasonably practical spending. My girlfriends medical residency has been solidified locally so now both our parents are pressuring us to buy a place, which makes sense, so thats on the radar too.

Kids however are not. And never no more than... 2. So I think I can hold off on the man-van for now. I'm the youngest person in my entire extended family and have basically no experience with children. Babies are cute but I'm afraid of them.

I did get a text from my mother informing me I need to get a home security system installed... so I guess I should factor that into my monthly expenditures.

 

[Huntn]

Yes, I believe back in January Sears sold Craftsman to Stanley/Black&Decker and will now sell the brand inside and outside of Sears. Unfortunately Craftman and most Stanley hand tools are now made in China.

Honestly looking at how departments stores are going Sears probably would have been better off selling Sears and keeping Craftsman . Sears' days are numbered. Selling Craftsman was not some brilliant "restructuring" plan, it's a band aid of cash to delay the inevitable.

Sadly I agree. I wonder if Craftsman tools still have a lifetime return policy? I suppose not.

My father, like his father, has quite the tool addiction for some reason. His hand tools are generally New Britian/Blackhawk (back when New Britain, CT was the tool capital of the US... I think they were eventually bought by Stanley), Snap On, Mac, Proto, SK. He also has about 2,000sq ft+ of wood shop in the basement... it's a bit nuts. For the most part, they don't make tools like they used to, it's amazing how cheap most/all the stuff is they sell at Home Depot.

Like I said, I'm not exactly in need of an ultra high performance engine... I just want to have a little oomph. I admit I'm spoiled with the 535... what a great little engine that thing has. Really anything under 7 seconds I think I'm okay with. I'd prefer not to have a 4cyl... call me old fashioned.

The Macan is a nice little package, loads of them around here... but a little smaller than I'd like. I'd probably go with a CPO Cayenne over a Macan. But I'm not sure I want that much flash... or the maintance costs or inevitably insane insurance rates. I as much as I enjoy fine automobiles I don't want to come off as too ostentatious. Even the Jaguar is an it much, but at least it comes with a good warranty.

I'm probably going to be self financing the car through myself. I have no debt, good credit, minimal expenduratures (basically rent + utilities split with the GF), a second income through my business, and a solid nest egg of savings, investments, and trust. I could go out and buy a GT3 but it's really a matter of reasonably practical spending. My girlfriends medical residency has been solidified locally so now both our parents are pressuring us to buy a place, which makes sense, so thats on the radar too.

Kids however are not. And never no more than... 2. So I think I can hold off on the man-van for now. I'm the youngest person in my entire extended family and have basically no experience with children. Babies are cute but I'm afraid of them.

I did get a text from my mother informing me I need to get a home security system installed... so I guess I should factor that into my monthly expenditures.

There is always the Fiat 500 Abarth, turbocharged. Small car, great for city driving with some oomph. I've been talking about this Alpha Romeo 4C but in reality the most I've ever spent on a car was $30k for a Toyota Highlander and I hate car payments. I did lease a Mercedes SUV for 3 years so that does not count. Honestly I don't see myself wasting an additional $30k for a fun, but limited purpose sporty car. Not even a back seat or bench to store groceries. Maybe I should check out the Mazda convertible instead but I suspect no space behind the seats there either.

Regarding tools, I had a complete Snap On set, but sold them as I did not need them. Harbor Freight is another outfit which used to sell good tools but then went, I suppose like most, the cheap China route, to stay competitive.