I'll be facing an extra $100 in monthly car payments, but my insurance will drop about $30 a month. Considering I'm getting a far superior car it's well worth it. Plus Subaru's have outstanding resale value compared to most other cars such as Mitsubishi, Honda, or Toyota.
Posted by MinutiaeMan (Member # 444) on :
I drove a '98 Impreza for a year -- my sister's car, while she was studying in Ireland. It's an awesome design, and I love Subaru in general.
Posted by Vice-Admiral Michael T. Colorge (Member # 144) on :
Nice trade... take lots of photos so we can drool on something that isn't a starship... for alil while.
Posted by Topher (Member # 71) on :
Subaru has an interesting design with the boxer engine. Although I'm not a big fan of the direction their design is taking these days. Looks like your mileage dropped a bit. Higher HP and torque, although at higher RPMs. Not too bad a tradeoff, but I doubt you're going to be towing anything or doing any street racing.... or are you? Posted by Hobbes (Member # 138) on :
Street .... racing ... no. Of course ...... not.
When I first saw the look of the new Impreza design I wasn't a fan either. I really like the look of the '01 design before the whole bug eye headlights. But then quickly enough the new appearance grew on me.
Anyway, here's a photo of an '06 Impreza from Subaru's site. Imagine this, but black. Posted by Vice-Admiral Michael T. Colorge (Member # 144) on :
Hehe, it reminds me of a cuter version of the BMW 3 Series... I was honestly thinking about getting a car like this and then I realized... I would get speeding tickets in LA, which should be a feat since it's usually gridlocked.
Posted by LOA (Member # 49) on :
I've been considering a Subaru WRX, but I've decided to go with a Mazdaspeed 6.... anyway, good choice in car. Subarus are great in all weather, and they DO hold a resale velue pretty well. Congrats on the purchase!
Posted by Hobbes (Member # 138) on :
I plan to go WRX or possibly STi in a couple years. In March '07 I'll be 25 and a clean driving record. Unfortunately the accident I had back in '03 that broke my legs also kills my insurance.
Posted by Saltah'na (Member # 33) on :
Lessee now, I have a 1996 Pontiac Sunfire, handed down by my dad, with over 357,000 km on it. Bruised front bumper, split rear bumper, driver's side door is warped when someone tried to break in, radio leds don't work, AC is out, and there is an antifreeze leak somewhere in the car (a slow leak)
And you're trading in a 2004 model for a 2006?
Why do people always have to have the newest/hottest cars or something? I'm still planning on keeping this car for another few months until the summer, provided that I find out where that antifreeze leak is coming from and how much it will cost to fix it.
Posted by Balaam Xumucane (Member # 419) on :
Anyone else notice the giant Irish pub bus behind the car Hobbes got after his accident. You be careful with that Subaru, Hobbes. If you're going to the pub, you still use that bus.
Seriously, congratulations on your new car.
Posted by Topher (Member # 71) on :
I have a 1988 Ranger and if I trade it for anything, it'll be something of the same year or older. Posted by LOA (Member # 49) on :
Some people just get bored and feel the need to buy new cars every few years... I'm one of those people... though my latest purchase (the Jeep I bought in May) will be lucky to make it 'til the one year mark. I hate it. I'm not an SUV kind of girl, no way, no how. Too bad I had to buy one before I realized how much I hate driving them. I want a sedan. I want a Mazdaspeed 6. And I will get one, just as soon as winter gets over....
Posted by Hobbes (Member # 138) on :
No Balaam, that photo of my Lancer was taken at McGuire's Irish Pub in Pensacola FL in June 2005.
My car accident was with my '90 Nissan 240SX in December 2003 in San Diego CA.
The only reason I took a photo of my car by the double decker bus was because McGuire's is my favorite place in Pensacola.
For some people a car is simply a way to get to work and home. For me it's more than that.
Posted by Topher (Member # 71) on :
I am also one of those people. And it just happens that 1983-1988 is my favourite style of Ranger/Bronco II. Posted by Jason Abbadon (Member # 882) on :
I have a 1990 Buick- It cost me $500 and I'm not afraid to crash it just for fun.
Or spite.
Great car though- 4 doors, bench seats and an AC that would freeze hell itself.
The Impreza looks cool in a Pontiac sorta way- looks like Sternbach added an aux deflector to the nose though.
Posted by Hobbes (Member # 138) on :
Well there is a trunk bay 2 but no visible trunk bay 1.
Posted by Cartman (Member # 256) on :
"Some people just get bored and feel the need to buy new cars every few years..."
People with more money than sense, you mean.
Posted by Hobbes (Member # 138) on :
Saying I have no sense? I just wanted a car that looked and performed better but would cost less than $100 extra a month.
Posted by LOA (Member # 49) on :
Umm... I have money? Really? Hmm... can you tell me where I keep it??? Posted by Mighty Blogger Snay (Member # 411) on :
Hobbes,
This one saves you $100 a month? I thought you said your payment went up $100. Or are you saving $200 on insurance?
Posted by Hobbes (Member # 138) on :
No, I pay $97 extra a month on car payments, but my insurance drops about $30 a month. So in the end, car payments and monthly insurance it's only a $51 increase per month for a brand new car with a lot more power.
Posted by Hobbes (Member # 138) on :
Anyway, here's a photo from when I picked it up at the dealership...
Posted by Topher (Member # 71) on :
You know, I think if the Subaru logo was dead centre in that section, it would look a lot better. Of course, that would make it look a bit Ford-ish... Posted by Vice-Admiral Michael T. Colorge (Member # 144) on :
That's hot... very porno!
Posted by Balaam Xumucane (Member # 419) on :
I must have missed something. Nice car, though.
Posted by Saltah'na (Member # 33) on :
Still, I can't help but notice the mileage on your newer car compared to the old. You're actually paying more when it comes to gas. So what, is this a tradeoff of some sort?
Posted by LOA (Member # 49) on :
The theory is that he's getting more power, so he doesn't mind losing the mileage....
Personally, I don't care about power, so I'd be worried about the mileage, but that's just 'cause I know that power + LOA = TROUBLE
The subaru also is AWD... which I don't believe the Mitsubishi was, so that's part of the trade off, too.
And, truly, the Subaru IS a better car. Not that the Mitsubishi was a bad car, but Subies will run forever and still be worth a lot..... Especially if you try to sell it someplace that gets snow... then they're worth a TON!!!
~LOA
Posted by Hobbes (Member # 138) on :
True, I sacrifice a few miles to the gallon. But considering what I get in return it's worth it in my opinion. Sure I'd love to get the 60 MPG that the Toyota Prius, but well, gay hippie cars aren't my style.
Posted by Vice-Admiral Michael T. Colorge (Member # 144) on :
Haha... gay hippies aren't the only ones getting the Toyota Prius... smug up and coming young professionals that like to have a lot of gadgets are also getting them. My friend Antonia bought one after having a bad experience with a '05 BMW 530.
I guess it depends where you live... I did love driving the Acura TSX Sedan but I figured that in Los Angeles, I need something that is more economical.
Posted by Hobbes (Member # 138) on :
Well gas in Charleston is relatively cheap. When I left San Diego I was paying $2.25 a gallon and got here where it was $1.80. Now it's currently about $2.05. Also Charleston is a tiny city, so much so compared to San Diego I barely consider it a city, so it's not like you have to drive very far to get anywhere.
I've driven up to LA, traffic so fucking bad I'd actually consider an automatic transmission since most of the time on the freeway I was lucky to make it past 2nd or 3rd gear.
Posted by The Ginger Beacon (Member # 1585) on :
$2.05 a gallon! Try �3.45 (and thats in U.S. gallons, as in 3.79 litres) and thats if it's cheap!
At the moment (6pm 24 nov. 05), it's 1.7218:1 $:�, so thats $5.94 a gallon.
Posted by Jason Abbadon (Member # 882) on :
Gas is $2.39 here in Fort Laudredale.
That's a biiig deop from the $3.15 it was pre-hurricane Wilma
[ November 24, 2005, 03:08 PM: Message edited by: Jason Abbadon ]
Posted by Jason Abbadon (Member # 882) on :
A screaming Lovecraftian [/URL] Toyota ad. home.comcast.net/~thewoozle/photos/toyota_bait.mpeg
Man, that's funny.
[ November 25, 2005, 05:24 PM: Message edited by: Jason Abbadon ]
Posted by Hobbes (Member # 138) on :
Here's a couple more smaller photos...
Posted by Hobbes (Member # 138) on :
LOA might be more interested in this set up...
Pioneer DEH-P9600MP deck I'm saving up for along with Alpine Type-S speakers. The Type-R seems to put out more power, but I was told Type-S would work fine.
Posted by Kazeite (Member # 970) on :
Now all you need is a sweeping red light installed in front grille Posted by LOA (Member # 49) on :
That deck is a good one, but in all honesty, the Pioneer DEH-P8600 is better quality, easier to use, and a LOT cheaper. I believe it's $100 - $150 less. The DEH-8600 is what we put in my boyfriend's truck, and it's awesome.... it's actually the same deck that every manager at the Car Toys here has, too. And most of them started with the 9600 and downgraded because the 8600 performed better.
You can get what you want, but that's my experience with the deck.... I'd get the 8600 if I were you.
Also, be careful with Alpine products.... two years ago, I'd have told you they were some of the best on the market. But that was two years ago, before they sold out to Best Buy. Since the sell ou, quality control has gone WAY down, performance has gone WAY down, and the number of problems had has gone WAY up. Now, they're not going to tell you that at Best Buy, because it's still their "flagship" product, or some shit like that, but seriously, I wouldn't touch Alpine anymore.
I have always had the higest end alpine deck in my vehicles.... and I always loved them. 'Til I got my current one last January. It's CRAP. Not the Alpine quality of the past, not at all. I can't wait to get rid of it and replace it with something else... maybe something reliable?
If you're looking for a decent speaker, I'd recommend going with JL Audio. Also, the Eclipse PointSource speakers are AMAZING, but a little pricier than the regular Eclipse speakers. And if cost is an issue, and you want something realy in expensive but still with awesome sound, especially in the mid range, I'd honestly recommend the MTX TDX line of speakers. I shit you not - they are around $100 a pair, and they blow every other speaker I've heard in the price range, and even a lot of the more expensive ones Out Of The Water. They were my top selling speaker in Anchorage, and I sold them happily every time. Not once did I have a customer complain about them. Not. Once.
Awesome speakers.
But make sure you get the newer model ones... they're silver looking on the cone with a rubber surround, not foam. Great speakers.
Anyway, that's my two cents worth... take it or leave it... you need to have the system that you're the most happy with, and I know that sometimes I've made decisions against everyon elses advice... but I always regretted it in the long run - keep that in mind
Good luck and happy shopping!!! If you need any other help, PLEASE let me know! I'm always available to talk stereo... oh, and are you getting a sub at all? If you are, I've got tons of advice there, too
~LOA
Posted by Saltah'na (Member # 33) on :
*sigh*
Car died last week.
Wouldn't start after I left work. Had it towed where I got bad news and more bad news.
Bad news #1: he found the source of the antifreeze leak, a warped head gasket. Cost to repair: $650.
Bad news #2: the car needs a new fuel pump. Cost to repair: $870.
So here I am trying to find a new car. I did narrow down the search to a Hyundai Accent, a Nissan Sentra, and a Pontiac Pursuit. So far, the Accent is the front runner, here in Canada, the base model costs $13,000. Apparently, they are also doing a promotion that has no financing rate. So no interest.
Interesting. What do you think?
Posted by Topher (Member # 71) on :
Too bad your car didn't die when the employee pricing thing was still going on...
A friend of mine just bought a Toyota Yaris. I think they're pretty cheap...
Posted by Hobbes (Member # 138) on :
I'd go with Sentra out of those choices. I would never own a Hyundai.
Posted by LOA (Member # 49) on :
I agree.... the Hyundai will be trouble, and it's VERY unsafe.... the Sentra is a lot more reliable, and a bit safer... and I'd never own a pontiac because they are a pain in the ASS to ever modify if you need to. Let me emphasize Pain In The Ass.
Posted by LOA (Member # 49) on :
How about a Ford Focus or a Saturn Ion? I'm not a HUGE fan of either of them, but they're low cost and fairly realiable.....
I know a few people with each of them, and they like the cars... Just a thought... but I still like the sentra better than either of them... I'm just trying to save you a couple bucks if I can :-)
Posted by Saltah'na (Member # 33) on :
Haven't looked at the Focus or the Ion yet. My dad has insisted that Fords are of very low quality. Not sure about Saturn.
I have looked at reviews for the 2006 Accent, and every one says that the redesign has actually improved the car quite a bit, in terms of safety, performance, and comfort. The only downsides is that the smaller tires make handling a bit squirrely, and that the manual transmission is not good for this type of vehicle.
Then again, user experiences are the best indicator. I know someone who just bought one, maybe she can tell me how it is like.
In any case, the Hyundai is the only car that I can readily afford. With all other cars I will have to look at leasing, on my current budget. The Sentra has the cheapest lease deal after the Hyundai, and my father readily endorses Pontiac given that he has been a loyal GM driver for more than 15 years.
The problem I have with the Yaris (aka Echo) is that the car is only $1000 cheaper than the Corolla, and that it also loses alot of power compared to the Corolla. Fuel consumption is about the same so I am wondering why not get the Corolla. Unfortunately, the Corolla is pretty much out of my price category (with their financing or leasing rates).....
[ December 04, 2005, 10:46 AM: Message edited by: Saltah'na ]
Posted by LOA (Member # 49) on :
Okay, well what about the chevy Aveo? You said your dad is a GM fan, so he'd probably approve of that, and the price for it is about the same as the Accent, it seems...
And honestly, I'd own a Chevy before a Hyundai....
I've REALLY only heard Hyundai horror stories... no sense buying a new car if it's going to be nothing but trouble...
And also, have you thought about getting a used car? It sounds like you're only looking at new, but if you go newer used (2003, 2004) then you'll be able to possibly get a lower milage car in good shape that is possibly a lot nicer than what you're looking at... it's just a thought... lease returns are usually a good choice 'cause they have low miles and people tend to take better care of them....
Anyway, good luck with the car shopping. And remember: Don't pay more than you want. If the dealership is playing hardball, then walk away. Act like you don't want the car (even if you do) and you'll be suprised what will happen... usually they'll call you back a few days or even hours later and offer you the world on a platter. Just don't let them get to ya....
~LOA
Posted by Topher (Member # 71) on :
Try going for a 98-02 Civic. Those are great cars.
Posted by LOA (Member # 49) on :
They are great cars, I agree....
Also, you mentioned the Corolla... maybe you can afford a used one? I don't know what they're going for in your area, but it could be an option for ya....
Posted by Hobbes (Member # 138) on :
How about an Impreza?
The only okay Hyundai would be the Tiburon, looks nice and has a lot of aftermarket.
Posted by LOA (Member # 49) on :
Subies tend to be pretty expensive, even used.... I think cost is a huge factor here, and with a car like a Subaru, the resale value is higher, and it's going to be tough to find one as inexpensive as an Accent... Posted by Saltah'na (Member # 33) on :
The problem with the Aveo is space. I tend to lug a lot of things around with me and the Aveo and the Pontiac Wave are very small hatchbacks. One look and I knew that it would not fit my needs. Even the sales rep wouldn't recommend the Aveo or the Wave. Then there are the financing and leasing rates, GM requires 3.8%.
There are a lot of used cars out there, most of them in very good condition, but they are going for at least $10K. Which means I also have to go for financing, and for used cars, they go up to 8%.
What makes the Accent so attractive to me is that they have a promotion on calling for 0% financing if I pay it off in 4 years. In other words, why not shell out a bit more for a brand new car instead of something that has already been put through its paces by a previous owner? And if I go for the Aveo or the Wave, the payments will be much higher.
Really, the car I want is a Mitsubishi Eclipse (dunno if they are still making them). Of course, I'd have to pay insane amounts of monthly payments to pay for that thing...... And you're right, cost is the major factor for me at this point. But yes, I don't want a lemon. I guess the best thing to do is to see what my friend thinks about it, after all, nothing beats a customer's experience.
Posted by Hobbes (Member # 138) on :
They're still making the Eclipse. Mitsubishi recently changed the design.
4th generation Eclipse... Posted by Hobbes (Member # 138) on :
Okay, so I've been starting to have a change of mind for CD deck...
CDA-9855 CD/MP3/WMA Receiver
� 50W MAX x 4 High Power Amplifier � 3 PreOuts (4V) � SwingFace GlideTouch Mechanism � SAT Radio Ready � Ready for iPod� � Bass Engine Pro� - 6-Channel Digital Time Correction - 6-Position HP/LP Digital Crossover -Subwoofer Level Control -Subwoofer Phase Selector -Bass Focus � 5-Band Digital Parametric Equalizer � 3- Way or 2-Way Digital Channel Crossover � Media Xpander� � CD-R/RW Playback � MP3/WMA Decoder/Playback � MP3 Text Information Display � QuickSearch Function (MP3 Files) � CD Text, CD Text Display, CD Text Scroll � CD Shuttle Control Function � Versatile-Link� Ready � MaxTune SQ Tuner � Regulated 1-Bit DAC � Wireless Remote Control Included � OEM Steering Remote Ready � Detachable Trim Plate � Anti-Theft Detachable Front Panel
I can get it for $285, plus it's green... well the one in the store is green, this pic is blue, so at least it will match my gauge cluster, AC controls and other interior lights.
Posted by Topher (Member # 71) on :
Money for stereos is money I don't have... I bought a single CD HU for $20 from a friend and I just bought a 10CD changer for $60... Both Kenwood. Plus all the speakers I've put in my truck were given to me (it didn't come with speakers stock). For now I need to spend my money on mechanical bits; shiny stereos can come later.
That said, I would have to say that that stereo is pretty shiny.
Posted by LOA (Member # 49) on :
No, no, no, no and no.
Oh... did I mention no?
Do not buy an Alpine. Do. Not.
I say this from experience..... I have a 9835 in my car right now, and I HATE it. Alpine went WAY down hill after they were picked up by Best Buy. It's a matter of supply and demand - the demand was higher, so the quality contgrols that used to be in place were thrown to the wayside, and it shows. Anyone who has owned an Alpined pre-Best Buy probably loves it. I always did, as this is the 4 Alpine I've owned. But when I got this last one (the 9835) I was warned... they told me not to buy it at Car Toys. They told me everything I just told you now, and more. They told me I'd hate it. They told me Alpine wasn't the same anyhmore. And I didn't believe them, so I bought it anyway.
I've hated it ever since.
By hate, I mean HATE.
First of all, Alpines are VERY user unfriendly.... now, to give them some credit, once you get to know how they work, they're pretty easy to use... but that requires several hours with your owners manual to get there.
The Alpine EQ is fussy... it's difficult to customize, as are the crossovers.
My 9835 loses its setting all the time... this is a common problem, I'm told. So every time it "forgets" it's memory, I have to sit outside for another 45-60 minutes reprogramming the EQ and crossovers. It's ridiculous.
The sound quality is not nearly as good now. It REALLY isn't. The 4V output they advertise is actually closer to 2.7V. Trust me, I used to sell this shit.
The time correction is neat, but difficult to program properly.
The "Glide Touch" mechanism is just a bunch of "Ooh, ahh" effect shit that REALLY only equals one more thing that can (and will) break. I can't even tell you how many complaints I've heard already about that mechanism going bad...
Being SAT ready is nice, but the Alpine tuner is not nearly as nice as some of the other ones... Kenwood and Pioneer BOTH get better reception for the satellite radio than my Alpine does.
Media Xpander is really just a bunch of hoopla for people who don't know what music SHOULD sound like and are just looking for noise... don't get me wrong, it's a great concept, but it just doesn't quite work the way it's supposed to with all files.
I could go one about this for days, but I'm not going to... trust me though, and I'm speaking from experiance, Alpine is NOT what it used to be, and it's heartbreaking. It really is, but the fact remains, the only reason they're still selling as well as they are is because the Alpine name is still well known for quality... it's only been about 2 years that they've been going downhill, so the old timers, like myself, are still thinking that Alpine is "bad ass" like in the good ol' days... but 5 minutes with one of the new decks, and even the most die hard fan can tell that things have changed, and not for the better.
Honestly, I say go with the Pioneer over the Alpine. But I'd go with the DEH8600, instead.... easier to use and better sound quality. You'll be very happy with that deck... i know a TON of people who have it (my boyfriend one of them!) and it's an amazing deck.
Otherwise, if you can find and Eclipse that meets your fancy, go for that. It's going to give you the cleanest sound on the market, though not the greatest looks.
Or you can do what I'm doing.... wait until March when the new products come out and PRAY that something better is on the market. I've been wanting a new deck since about 2 days after I got this one, but there's not a thing on the market that pleases me fully. The closest thing is the DEH8600, but I don't like the color of it.
Anyway, that's my two cents worth. Don't worry, it was free this time. Let me know if you have any other questions. Ultimately, you need to get what will make you happy, but I'm VERY concerned that Alpine will not be the right product for you.....
Posted by Jason Abbadon (Member # 882) on :
So...buy Alpine?
Posted by Hobbes (Member # 138) on :
Well that sucks.
I was talking with the car audio department supervisor at Best Buy about the 9855, told him what you told me. His opinion is Alpine has and still is the greatest. Also the only thing he would put in his car. Of course you expect him to say that, he works there and wants to sell it. He use to work at Circuit City and ever since Alpine left them they've been trying to bad mouth the product to customers that come into their store.
So I've got him saying yes and you saying no. You know way more about car audio than anyone I know. My next step is look online at customer reviews. Then compare them with reviews of the Pioneer DEH-P9600MP. Visually the Alpine would match the interior of my car better and the Pioneer is a lot flashier and you can't help but notice it.
Unfortunately Comcast crashed (I hate their cable service .. and for some odd reason I can't access any websites except Flare when it happens) while at Google searching the Pioneer (oddly most crashes occur when at Google). I found a few good reviews on Alpine and a few bad reviews as well. I was only able to see a couple reviews at one site for the Pioneer but almost everyone loves it.
My last deck was Pioneer, I liked it so I'm still leaning towards them. Right now I'll just have to keep researching.
Posted by Toadkiller (Member # 425) on :
Glad you summed up LOA's post for me Jason - I hate reading long posts.
Alpine it is - I'll get two.
Posted by LOA (Member # 49) on :
Lean towards Pioneer.... keep leaning! I'm saying it 'cause I want you to be happy. And I know that the Alpine is pretty... it's SOOOO pretty! I totally understand what you're saying, but I've really been so unhappy with mine that it's ridiculous... if you wanna go Alpine, find a used one... like the 9815! That was, in my opinion, the last good Alpine deck.... :-P
Posted by Topher (Member # 71) on :
How are Kenwood decks? Not that I really care, seeing as how I've paid $80 for the capacity to have 11 CDs, but...
Posted by LOA (Member # 49) on :
Kenwood is decent..... I'd say they're sturdy and reliable, and as far as features vs. looks, they're a pretty good combination of the two. :-)
I've never actually owned one myself, but I've heard a lot of good things about them and very few bad things. So for what that's worth.... I say go for it :-)
Posted by LOA (Member # 49) on :
Hobbes~
I went ahead and asked some professional opinions for you :-) This message came from Mark, the install manager that there stereo shop I worked at in Anchorage. He is one of less than 100 MECP First Class Certified installers in the country. And he is by far the most talented installer I've ever met - here is his take on your predicament. I haven't edited anything, except some minor typos - he's one of the most intelligent people I know, but he can't spell worth a damn. Truly amazing...
"Pioneer is the better line this year, Alpine still sucks and Best Buy boys are no talent ass clowns, with small dicks. You can quote me on that. Next years line-up (for Pioneer) is way strong and will be good competition for Eclipse. Alpine is now on the same level as Rockford decks, my favorite - NOT. Well, the only other decks that might come to mind are some of the Kenwood ones. A couple of their decks this year aren't that bad.
loveulongtime
M "
BTW - any time a product is compared to Rockford Fosgate, that is a Very Bad Thing. Pretty much, the worst. Rockford was another Best Buy sell-out, and all they create is shit now.
Anyway, maybe this'll help you, maybe not... but good luck and happy shopping!!!
~LOA
Posted by tricky (Member # 1402) on :
I've got an older kenwood, and recently purchased the ipod adapter for it. The stereo can act at a head unit to a CD autochanger, and the adaptor makes the stereo think the ipod is a 100 odd disk autochanger. this means the ipod can go in the glove box out of site, and you can control all the features of the ipod on the stereo, and see the tracks names etc. I belive several uther manufactures do a simular thing.
Do you have family size hatch backs in the US? like the Ford Mondeo , or new focus Personaly I'm looking at a jag X-type at the moment, although with the weakness in the dollar at the moment, might not be in your price range
Posted by PsyLiam (Member # 73) on :
I think Mark has been watching a bit too much Wayne's World.
Posted by Lee (Member # 393) on :
And Office Space, presumably while saying out loud on a regular basis "Man, I'm so glad I work in a shop that sells car stereos, and not in an office!"
Posted by PsyLiam (Member # 73) on :
Why does everyone here seem to be amazingly rich, anyway?
Posted by LOA (Member # 49) on :
Oh, sweety.... I'm the furthest thing FROM rich. I just have a fucked up sense of responsibility... so car audio comes first
At least it used to... since I've been sick, I haven't bought a thing. Wow... that was like a year ago... crazy.
So I live vicariously through everyone else for now Posted by tricky (Member # 1402) on :
Something to listen to as you wait for the AA or AAA by the sde of the road
Posted by Hobbes (Member # 138) on :
Far from rich. Yes I traded in my old car, for an expensive better car and increased my monthly payments by $51. I wouldn't really be worried about getting a new deck if the factory one played MP3's and XM. Sure there are cheaper ones, but there's not a lot of places for my car to improve so I'm focusing on this.
Posted by Hobbes (Member # 138) on :
Had a change of mind. Instead of a simple CD/MP3 player I'm going with a Kenwood DDX-7017 double-DIN DVD player. I can get it new and at cost saving me nearly $500. Although during normal city driving I wouldn't try watching a DVD, during long freeway trips it would be a little more useful.
Posted by Balaam Xumucane (Member # 419) on :
Plus, I mean, dolphins...
Posted by Hobbes (Member # 138) on :
Exactly, right?
Unfortunately when Japanese cars come to America they lack the double-DIN setups which are usually DVD/GPS screens. Instead they equip the American versions with just a standard CD player.
Posted by Topher (Member # 71) on :
Well at least they have the decency to put in a standard DIN setup instead of some weird-ass aesthetic thing (I'm looking at you, GM).
Posted by LOA (Member # 49) on :
Oh, honey.
Hobbes.
PLEASE, I pray, PLEASE tell me that you're not going to let Best Buy install that piece.
Please.
Good choice on equipment though.
Posted by Lee (Member # 393) on :
Umm, hang on a minute! Am I the only one who has a problem with this? I mean, I realise that roads in the US are long and straight and boring, but are you genuinely proposing to watch fucking TV while you DRIVE?!
Posted by tricky (Member # 1402) on :
Reasons not to enter the US, number 74: Hobbies watches DVD's whilst driving, uses Force to navigate. Lee, do you think we are safe enough with just the Atlantic between him and us? I suggest the US and Canadian flarerites hide behind the Rockies..
Posted by Lee (Member # 393) on :
Especially given Hobbes = most recent holder of Flare Nasty Car Crashee, and LOA (who's encouraging him to get this absurd device) used to post, on a regular basis, something along the lines of "I just had another car accident, and my stereo got stolen, but I believe in God, so, yay!"
Posted by tricky (Member # 1402) on :
Actually I think it's rather cool, just not for watching dvd's whilst driving, which will get you in the market for another car rather soon, if not in the new body market. I wonder if you coud get a rotating wireframe of you car playing whilst driving along? Or replace your rear view mirrors with cameras tied into this? or an infrared forward camera for driving though fog? Wasn't someone working on radar imaging using parking sensors?
Posted by Hobbes (Member # 138) on :
No, Best Buy is not going to install it. I'm going to have a local speciality audio shop do it.
Dude...that accident was over two years ago. Hardly recent.
I've seen some rear-view mirrors that have a screen built into it for watching movies.
Posted by Lee (Member # 393) on :
Most recent = last one to happen.
Posted by LOA (Member # 49) on :
Lee, if it helps at all, legally, those screens have to be hooked up to the e-brake, meaning that the video functions will only work when the e-brake is engaged.
There are ways around that, yes, but you've gotta really suck up to your installer to get it done - OR you can just know how to do it yourself, as I do.
However, I have no screen. Too much of an insurance liability. I'm not ready to "go there" yet.
Posted by Hobbes (Member # 138) on :
True, I'm gonna have the guys at Custom Car Stereo bypass that. After making numerous long road trips and being bored out of my skull... it's not like I plan on paying 100% to the player instead of the road, just a little extra entertainment.
Posted by Sol System (Member # 30) on :
I'm beginning to gain a new appreciation for certain radical American groups recently in the news.
Posted by tricky (Member # 1402) on :
Who, the republicans?
Posted by Lee (Member # 393) on :
"E-brake?" Is that like a hand-brake, or is that soooo 20th Century?
Posted by Topher (Member # 71) on :
Its technically called the park(ing) brake. The NA fascination with calling it an e-brake (emergency brake) I suppose stems from the indicator light on dash displays incorporating a (!) to warn you the brake is on. I've never called it a hand brake because my family has only recently had vehicles with an actual hand brake (all others had a pedal).
So there you have it: another piece of automotive lore.
Posted by Lee (Member # 393) on :
So you have PARKING brakes that are actually pedals? Well, I suppose if you all drive automatics you'd only have two pedals down there anyway, so could fit a third in.
Posted by tricky (Member # 1402) on :
Newer cars (ford etc) here have electronic hand/parking brakes. Takes a little getting used to (especially hill starts) but i like. It's usually called a emergency brake as it uses a different system to the normal brakes, so can be used as a brake if the standard brakes fail (I've had a master cylinder go on me before now)
Posted by Hobbes (Member # 138) on :
I call it a parking brake. Cause I use it when parking. When I use to drive an automatic I never used it, but once you advanced to a manual you need it.
Posted by LOA (Member # 49) on :
Don't get caught watching a movie while driving - hefty ticket for you, possible problems for the shop that's putting your unit in.
Personally, I'm not one that agrees with watching a movie while driving. If boredom is your concern, then for $13 a month you can get satallite radio and be dazzled with the sounds of everything ranging from todays hits to Elvis to howard stern.
Seems like a much safer way to go. Even if I ever do go video, there will be no video watching in the driver's seat while driving.
All it takes is a couple of seconds as your staring at "Debbie Does Dallas" and you've got time to CREAM Bambi's mother as she runs into the road in front of you.
I work in insurance, this shit happens everyday. And everyone always says "I didn't think it would ever happen to me..." well, no shit. No one does.
So the thought of having a DVD playing in my line of sight while driving? I'm not impressed by it, I'll be honest.
Also, check your insurance limits - make sure that you're covered for the theft of that piece. Some insurance will on regular coverage, some won't. You're at a much higher risk for stereo theft (or vehicle theft in general) the second you get that piece put in, so you'd best know that it's covered, unless you can afford to replace it and do all of the repairs to your vehicle when those pesky theives tear the thing up trying to get your "goodies".
Also, if your insurance states that they will not cover it because of the cost or the assigned risk factor, ask if you can add it on as an additional coverage. That's what I've done with my equipment for years. I'm not going to kid you - it's pricey. I pay almost $50 a month for my stereo coverage. But it's worth it, as I found out when my Protege was broken into.
Be smart and don't die!
~Liz
Posted by Topher (Member # 71) on :
My 1988 Ranger has 4 pedals: gas, brake, clutch, park brake. Common sight in older cars. It wasn't until imports started becoming common that hand brakes started showing up in NA cars, I think.
Posted by Charles Capps (Member # 9) on :
quote:There are ways around that, yes, but you've gotta really suck up to your installer to get it done
Translation: Liz in a tank top.
Posted by Balaam Xumucane (Member # 419) on :
How do you like your 88 Ranger, Toph? A friend is selling his '89 for a pittance. Same pedal arrangement. But my dad had a lot of trouble with his '84. But that was before EFI. We checked it out and the engine seems sound. If I do wind up getting it, I probably won't be installing a mobile DVD system. (Unless LOA were to do the install in a tank top.)
Posted by LOA (Member # 49) on :
Balaam~
I could do the install, and most likely I WOULD be in a tank top ;-)
When I worked at the stereo shop in Anchorage, I NEVER wore sleeves... the more skin I showed, the happier I was :-) And my sales weren't too bad, either! ;-)
Thanks for bringing that option up, Charles ;-)
And yes... Liz in a tank top = good deals. But now I get the deals no matter what I wear because they know if I don't, I'm gonna snuff them :-)
~Liz
Posted by Topher (Member # 71) on :
Well, I have yet to actually drive my Ranger. Its a long story... But an 89 is a good year. Being that you're in California you won't have any problems with body rot or anything.
Posted by Hobbes (Member # 138) on :
Damn you LOA why must you talk me out of everything! Even if I get what you suggest there won't be no tank top install for me. Posted by Topher (Member # 71) on :
Not new, but new to me. And I'm very excited. Getting it on the 17th.
My very own car. First car I've owned that is wholly my own (ie registered in my name, my own insurance policy, etc). My mother graciously bought the car and got it on the road for me. She needs a little body work and she's getting a nice new coat of paint as soon as it gets warm enough to paint. More pictures here
No idea on gas mileage yet as I've only been driving her for a little over a week, but so far she's just been sipping gas. Between the first two fillups she was driven for a good 300-400 km at least, I believe. Some specs on Escort GTs:
Engine: Mazda 1.8L DOHC I4 Peak Horsepower: 127 hp @ 6500 Peak Torque: 114 lb ft @ 4500
Max has a manual transmission and I'm getting the hang of it (my first standard). I'm a very proud owner and I love driving this car! Posted by The Ginger Beacon (Member # 1585) on :
Hey, not too shabby. I had a Sierra with the 1600 DOHC engine. Did about 25 mpg, (but this went down to about 20mpg when it developed a dodgey head gasket, and I had to keep topping things up).
If she's anything like the Escorts in the UK you'll need to watch for rust. Fords here are built cheaply and suffer from rot I'm afraid.
Luckily, the parts are as common as muck and about as cheap. Happy motoring Topher!
PS, what sort of mileage is on the clock? Also, isn't Max a bit of a blokey name for a 'she'?
Posted by Topher (Member # 71) on :
She had about 213k kms on the clock when I got her. And Max is a bit of a universal name, kinda thing. Could be short for Maxine or Maximillion, you never know.
And as far as I know, North American Escorts are nothing at all similar to European Escorts. This particular generation (91-96) is essential a Mazda Protege/323 with different skin. The normal, run-of-the-mill Escort at least has a Ford engine where the GT has a Mazda engine (in fact, some of the engines have a Mazda valvecover instead of a Ford one).
Posted by TSN (Member # 31) on :
My family's dog is female and named "Max".
Posted by Hobbes (Member # 138) on :
Or the subject of my masturbatory fantasies, Jessica Alba, was named Max in Dark Angel.
This was my first car, a used 1990 Nissan 240SX. Well except mine was dark gray, no fog lights, and clear turn signals.
Posted by Hobbes (Member # 138) on :
quote:Originally posted by Lee: "E-brake?" Is that like a hand-brake, or is that soooo 20th Century?
As Mitch Hedberg put it best... "So a lot of times I drive like 10 miles with the emergency brake on. That doesn't say for me, but it really doesn't say a lot for the emergency brake. It's really not an emergency brake, it's an 'emergency make the car smell funny lever'."
Posted by LOA (Member # 49) on :
You've officially been pimped, my brotha'.... Posted by Hobbes (Member # 138) on :
Link don't work.
"Unpimp the auto." I love those VW commercials with Peter Stormare. His character's been MIA on Prison Break for a while now.
Posted by LOA (Member # 49) on :
Dude... that link SOOOO works. I know. I just clicked it.
Posted by bX (Member # 419) on :
You listen. Listen to the girl with the tank top. Except the bit about pimpin' your ride. That's usually pretty silly and for folks who have a lot of extra cash lying around that could be otherwise spent on DVDs or action-figures or LEGOs or something.
![[Wink]](wink.gif)
![[Big Grin]](biggrin.gif)
![[Smile]](smile.gif)
![[Cool]](cool.gif)
![[Razz]](tongue.gif)
