The Car Thread ... !

[cyb3rdud3]

Well if you are serious about the MGB, then you better ask @bunnspecial for their advice. I think he'd be the second person I'd ask for advice if buying a classic car. The first person's advice I'd ask for would be a divorce lawyer! 🤣

A divorce lawyer would make it very expensive 👍

Anyone’s opinion is always welcomed; good or bad. It’s a discussion forum after all.

I nearly always appreciate build threads/posts as well. But several of us have very different approaches, not sure mine would be compatible as I’m largely in the other camp. Don’t want to rub more salt in the wound though as anything seems to be taken with great sensitivity.

Anyway I must resist. No more toys for now, COVID will go away and my focus must be on house hunting and emigrating when we can.

 

[bunnspecial]

But several of us have very different approaches, not sure mine would be compatible as I’m largely in the other camp. Don’t want to rub more salt in the wound though as anything seems to be taken with great sensitivity.

Not sure if that was directed at me or not, and if you mean that you care more about good appearance than mechanic work, or place a lot of emphasis on appearance.

As MGs or any other classic cars go, I respect GOOD restorations a whole lot. I can be critical of restorations that use crap modern reproduction parts, but also recognize the reality that it can be hard to track down quality originals and even more difficult to find people to put them right(see my bumper example). I also care a lot-a whole lot-about structural integrity and quality body work. I'm also not into resto-modding as I am an originality guy, but just because it's not for me doesn't mean I don't respect it being done well. Engine swapping is something I do enjoy reading about, and I'd love to drop a Rover V8 in an MGB one of these days(there are reasons why that particular engine, but there are a lot of other V6 and V8 options that work well).

So please don't let my reaction deter you-I'm happy to have informed discussion on stuff like this, and absolutely cheer on restoration efforts. If you're thinking of buying an MG, there are folks who know a lot more than me. I'm happy to both give it a once-over, though, and if you're serious and want me to do so, I'll also gladly put you in touch with people who are well placed to speak more intelligently. If you want my opinion, I'm happy to offer it on the one linked either here or privately-just say so. There's some stuff lacking in the listing to allow me to give a full opinion, but short and too the point I see a lot of good, some flags, and some important things not shown in enough detail to make an informed opinion.

 

[44267547]

2022 Chevrolet Bolt announced-(Both the ‘EUV and EV’)

EV Starts at $31,995.

“Both the Bolt EV and Bolt EUV will ship with a new dual-level charge cord with changeable plugs for 120V and 240V charging. The Bolts' onboard AC charger is capable of charging at up to 7.2kW; an external level-2 AC charger can top up the battery at 11kW. DC fast-charging hasn't gotten any faster, though—it will still max out at 55kW. It is at least a standard feature on the Bolt now; until now it's been an optional extra. Chevrolet's technical materials list the battery capacity at 65kWh rather than the 66kWh of the 2020 Bolt EV, but range is unchanged at 259 miles (416km). The slightly bigger, heavier Bolt EUV is rated at 250 miles (402km) on a full charge.”

 

[JohnR]

Yeah, we get the sprinkling of snow, which I'm glad we do not get more. I hate the stuff. I'm not far enough south. I'll get more pics when I'm able to and the weather cooperates. I'm still trying to line up a shop to do PPF and also tint my door windows. And I need to clean it, badly.

boy did I ever jinx myself. Last week we got a bad ice storm that is still around due to temps never getting above 30. Now last night we got probably 1-2" of snow, with more on the way today/tonight. Prediction is 8-12". With more coming on Thursday.

I did take the Y out this weekend and it did fine on the ice. I still took it easy on gas/brakes, but it handled it like a champ.

 

[cyb3rdud3]

2022 Chevrolet Bolt announced-(Both the ‘EUV and EV’)

EV Starts at $31,995.

“Both the Bolt EV and Bolt EUV will ship with a new dual-level charge cord with changeable plugs for 120V and 240V charging. The Bolts' onboard AC charger is capable of charging at up to 7.2kW; an external level-2 AC charger can top up the battery at 11kW. DC fast-charging hasn't gotten any faster, though—it will still max out at 55kW. It is at least a standard feature on the Bolt now; until now it's been an optional extra. Chevrolet's technical materials list the battery capacity at 65kWh rather than the 66kWh of the 2020 Bolt EV, but range is unchanged at 259 miles (416km). The slightly bigger, heavier Bolt EUV is rated at 250 miles (402km) on a full charge.”

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That brings ugly and plastic to a whole new level of definition 🤣 Looks more like a Dacia, or Daewoo, or one of the many Chinese clones companies design wise...Yuk...

 

[44267547]

That brings ugly and plastic to a whole new level of definition 🤣 Looks more like a Dacia, or Daewoo, or one of the many Chinese clones companies design wise...Yuk...

No disagreement here. I think that’s one of the biggest gripes with EV vehicles, is they’re primarily hideous (With the new Tesla Plaid+ getting it right with the new revisions). I think the demographic who purchase EV’s, really doesn’t care anything about the aesthetics as much, when it’s all about being ‘eco-friendly’ and cost savings. I think what is so offputting is the lack of refinement with these blocky pieces with no inserts from grills and trim pieces, it’s a wall of plastic.

Part of enjoying the ownership of a vehicle, is also appreciating how it looks aside from the performance.

 

[CooperBox]

Ok, they say that beauty is in the eye(s) of the beholder, and that may be true if you're a short-sighted cyclops, but imho many of these new SUV's (as previously stated) definitely reinforces the definition of big, ugly and plastic.
The Citroen C5 Aircross recently caught my eye, but not for the right reasons.
Don't ask "what's that large red orifice below the driver and passenger door?" No idea whatsoever!

 

[Nütztjanix]

Ok, they say that beauty is in the eye(s) of the beholder, and that may be true if you're a short-sighted cyclops, but imho many of these new SUV's (as previously stated) definitely reinforces the definition of big, ugly and plastic.
The Citroen C5 Aircross recently caught my eye, but not for the right reasons.
Don't ask "what's that large red orifice below the driver and passenger door?" No idea whatsoever!

View attachment 1731376

These are the prototypes of the corresponding parts in the front bumper. They decided to have them bigger, but didn’t want to throw the small ones away. So they mounted them on the sides.

 

[cyb3rdud3]

Ok, they say that beauty is in the eye(s) of the beholder, and that may be true if you're a short-sighted cyclops, but imho many of these new SUV's (as previously stated) definitely reinforces the definition of big, ugly and plastic.
The Citroen C5 Aircross recently caught my eye, but not for the right reasons.
Don't ask "what's that large red orifice below the driver and passenger door?" No idea whatsoever!

View attachment 1731376

LOL Yes or do they still do that Citroen C4 Cactus with the eggshell boxes on the doors 🤣

Amazing that a company that used to produce a DS or SM or even the CV has gotten into these fake plastic enhancements.

 

[cyb3rdud3]

These are the prototypes of the corresponding parts in the front bumper. They decided to have them bigger, but didn’t want to throw the small ones away. So they mounted them on the sides.

Or perhaps there will be an option for for a side exhaust stack for that little four cylinder engine 🤣

 

[Nütztjanix]

Might also be some kind of step to help small people climb in ...? 🤔

 

[44267547]

Don't ask "what's that large red orifice below the driver and passenger door?"

Honestly, I have no idea how to answer this....or...ummm...I guess it’s just more.... holes?😁

 

[FocusAndEarnIt]

Any thoughts on the latest generation of Honda Accord? I am thinking about getting a used 2018 Honda Accord EX off of Carvana or otherwise in the coming months. I have a 2019 Honda CR-V EX that we bought new and love it, but with me starting my medical residency, we're going to need two cars. Choosing the Accord over Civic due to two babies + a dog.

Needs to be reliable, needs to last, needs to be low maintenance. Honda has been all those things for me over the past 7 years (previously had a Civic 2010).

 

[44267547]

Any thoughts on the latest generation of Honda Accord? I am thinking about getting a used 2018 Honda Accord EX off of Carvana or otherwise in the coming months. I have a 2019 Honda CR-V EX that we bought new and love it, but with me starting my medical residency, we're going to need two cars.

I can’t attest to the Honda Accord, even though I think the reliability has always been on par with Toyota. (For reference of vehicle years with specific problems, I can recommend ‘carcomplaints.com’, and that will kind of give you an idea of any major issues for any specific year you’re looking, things to avoid or vehicle recalls.)

But I will say regarding Carvana, locally around me, I’ve heard great experiences, more specifically my neighbor just purchased a Hyundai Elantra for his daughter and they delivered it right to the door, test drove it and everything was completed under an hour. They’ve grown quite a bit and even in the social circle people around me who have posted there experiences, has reported positive feedback.

I mentioned it a few times, but I think the future of vehicle purchasing is going to be online where dealership sales will slowly diminish, with the exception of special orders and/or specific models.

 

[Apple fanboy]

Ok, they say that beauty is in the eye(s) of the beholder, and that may be true if you're a short-sighted cyclops, but imho many of these new SUV's (as previously stated) definitely reinforces the definition of big, ugly and plastic.
The Citroen C5 Aircross recently caught my eye, but not for the right reasons.
Don't ask "what's that large red orifice below the driver and passenger door?" No idea whatsoever!

View attachment 1731376

It’s where you put your foot to get in! Because it’s so big (and ugly!).

 

[Apple fanboy]

I can’t attest to the Honda Accord, even though I think the reliability has always been on par with Toyota. (For reference of vehicle years with specific problems, I can recommend ‘carcomplaints.com’, and that will kind of give you an idea of any major issues for any specific year you’re looking, things to avoid or vehicle recalls.)

But I will say regarding Carvana, locally around me, I’ve heard great experiences, more specifically my neighbor just purchased a Hyundai Elantra for his daughter and they delivered it right to the door, test drove it and everything was completed under an hour. They’ve grown quite a bit and even in the social circle people around me who have posted there experiences, has reported positive feedback.

I mentioned it a few times, but I think the future of vehicle purchasing is going to be online where dealership sales will slowly diminish, with the exception of special orders and/or specific models.

I’d never order a car online without sitting in it and taking it for a test drive first.

 

[44267547]

I’d never order a car online without sitting in it and taking it for a test drive first.

I’ve ordered/had two cars shipped two my door with the Camaro and Cobra (Both blind buys) without issue. But I knew what I was getting into and I did my homework. It really is a ‘to each their own’ scenario.

 

[Apple fanboy]

I’ve ordered/had two cars shipped two my door with the Camaro and Cobra (Both blind buys) without issue. But I knew what I was getting into and I did my homework. It really is a ‘to each their own’ scenario.

Agreed. I just do t know anyone who’d be happy just ordering a car online. Mind you I don’t like ordering clothes online either.

 

[cyb3rdud3]

I’ve several times ordered a car “blind”. Actually you have no alternative when you preorder a new model. It’s not like it is there ready at the dealers for a test drive or anything like that. No regrets so far. Besides if you don’t like it, just get rid of it

 

[Apple fanboy]

I’ve several times ordered a car “blind”. Actually you have no alternative when you preorder a new model. It’s not like it is there ready at the dealers for a test drive or anything like that. No regrets so far. Besides if you don’t like it, just get rid of it

Lol. I rarely send anything back. I like to thoroughly research and then make my decision.

 

[cyb3rdud3]

Any thoughts on the latest generation of Honda Accord? I am thinking about getting a used 2018 Honda Accord EX off of Carvana or otherwise in the coming months. I have a 2019 Honda CR-V EX that we bought new and love it, but with me starting my medical residency, we're going to need two cars. Choosing the Accord over Civic due to two babies + a dog.

Needs to be reliable, needs to last, needs to be low maintenance. Honda has been all those things for me over the past 7 years (previously had a Civic 2010).

Nope, nothing, nada. No thoughts at all about that one. It’s one of those cars, together with I would say a Toyota Camry and the likes that to me is literally just a car.

Lol. I rarely send anything back. I like to thoroughly research and then make my decision.

Generally I agree but sometimes that is not possible and got to take a gamble. It’s fun actually. And pretty safe as well, especially with UK consumer protection laws.

 

[Apple fanboy]

Nope, nothing, nada. No thoughts at all about that one. It’s one of those cars, together with I would say a Toyota Camry and the likes that to me is literally just a car.

Generally I agree but sometimes that is not possible and got to take a gamble. It’s fun actually. And pretty safe as well, especially with UK consumer protection laws.

Well aware of the distance selling act as I work for a big e-commerce company. Maybe that’s why I’m so down on returns. Customer buys 2x £1000 monitors to help him decide if he wants 27” or 32”. Then he returns one two us. By the time we’ve paid the carriage then the eBay fees to offload the unwanted open boxed monitor which gets sold usually for less than we paid for it, we’d be better off if the customer bought elsewhere.

 

[bunnspecial]

Got a fair bit of stuff finished on the MGB today.

 

[senseless]

Any thoughts on the latest generation of Honda Accord? I am thinking about getting a used 2018 Honda Accord EX off of Carvana or otherwise in the coming months. I have a 2019 Honda CR-V EX that we bought new and love it, but with me starting my medical residency, we're going to need two cars. Choosing the Accord over Civic due to two babies + a dog.

Needs to be reliable, needs to last, needs to be low maintenance. Honda has been all those things for me over the past 7 years (previously had a Civic 2010).

I’ve got a ‘19 Accord hybrid that I’m very happy with. Infotainment screen is easy and fast, huge trunk, handling and comfort good, zero issues and 40 MPG on average.

 

[cyb3rdud3]

Well aware of the distance selling act as I work for a big e-commerce company. Maybe that’s why I’m so down on returns. Customer buys 2x £1000 monitors to help him decide if he wants 27” or 32”. Then he returns one two us. By the time we’ve paid the carriage then the eBay fees to offload the unwanted open boxed monitor which gets sold usually for less than we paid for it, we’d be better off if the customer bought elsewhere.

Yup, that is a side effect of it. But on the other hand fair enough. I mean some overstate their size and 27" really isn't that big

I felt a bit guilty ordering a new parka by Canada Goose from END. First one the fit was weird, the thing came over my knees and the sleeves were too long. Return for an exchange and tried a size down. The length was fine, as we the sleeves, but the upper body was too tight. This time returned for a refund as whilst I still needed a parka they didn't stock the parka in a different style in black edition that I wanted so ended up ordering direct from Canada Goose. And it was all fine.

But hey, you know better than I, that is also part of retail...And there is no option to go to a shop and try it out. Same with cars, it can't be done. I bought my wife's BMW M2 Competition through BMW's Click and Collect system. We weren't luckily allowed a handover either. Which was a blessing as I hate those things. I just want to go and drive.