Toyota Prius

Other Teams Pursuing That wrote:

The Pantry wrote:But, why the hate on American companies and workers from, supposedly, other Americans?

Who hates these companies? You keep saying that, but no one has really implied or said that.

The Pantry wrote:

Other Teams Pursuing That wrote:

Who hates these companies? You keep saying that, but no one has really implied or said that.

Not implied?

Twist away, clueless millennial lib.

The Pantry wrote:You are anti-American, Greenway. When's the last time you purchased any vehicle made by the Big 3?

Watch Out Pylon! wrote:Why can't the dummies leave politics to tBin?

tGreenWay wrote:

The Pantry wrote:You are anti-American, Greenway.  When's the last time you purchased any vehicle made by the Big 3?

First of all, just stop with the anti-American BS. You know it’s not true, and it makes you sound ridiculous, so just stop.

tl:dr  If American car companies had treated me better and/or been willing to negotiate, I never would’ve discovered how Toyota consistently makes superior products, and I’ll probably never go back to an American car, however loosely that’s defined these days.

To answer your question, Pantry, the last American car I bought was an 88 1/2 Ford Escort. My first ever new car. Not too bad, either.

So, having answered your question, here’s the extra long version of how I came to be a devoted Toyota owner. I do t owe you an explanation, but I’m going to tell you, anyway:
In ‘95, when my then-girlfriend and I decided to buy a new car, I did all the research, and despite what all the auto experts said, I set my sights on the newly redesigned Ford Taurus and its amazing () new easy to use radio and dial controls. I went with the Taurus first because I grew up in a Ford family. I lived in a GM town, but it was always Ford first. My grandfather and uncle had both spent their careers there, one as an accountant and the other as a manager in the paint department at their Romeo plant (I think it was Romeo).
Called the dealer in advance to see if I could drive the new Taurus, and the man on the phone told me sure. Took time off from work, drove to Okemos, and started giving it the thorough look through. Sat inside and immediately got yelled at from some other guy because the car had apparently been sold to a friend of the GMs, as if I was supposed to know that. They didn’t have another one on the lot, and no one would bother to look at their sheets to see if/when another was due to be delivered. Turns out, through my brief time researching the new design, I’d learned more about the Taurus than any of the sales staff. They couldn’t answer any of my questions, “But but but look at the cool new dials!”
Bye.

Having eliminated the Taurus, or rather, Ford eliminating me for it, I went to check out the Olds 88. Pretty good car, not great ratings, but it would do, and it was nicer than the compact cars and/or beaters we’d both drivers. Plenty of 88s on the lot, so getting one wouldn’t be an issue. They wanted ~ $25k+ for it. Had great rapport with the sales guy, but they wouldn’t budge on price, and it was just out of our range. They wouldn’t even drop it a thousand, which could’ve made the difference.
Bye.

Drove to Petoskey to speak with my gramps, because the idea of buying foreign bugged the shit out of me. I knew what he’d done for Ford and, in return, what Ford had done for him. All those money-saving suggestions had made my gramps comfortable for life, especially since he’d earned stocks and a couple free cars along the way. But, as conservative and Conservative as he was, after discussing everything with him, he told me how let down he felt because of what had become of American car companies, starting with Ford.
Now, I’d gone to him looking for guidance, not permission, but he gave me his blessing, anyway. Told me American car companies had done it to themselves. He also said loyalty is a two way street; that if I’m dropping $20k, then I’d better be getting a car that was worth it. Said putting my money in a Toyo or Honda was a much smarter investment.

Back downstate a few days later: Test drove the Accord first, then the Camry. Liked the tighter steering and braking of the Honda, but the Camry was like gliding on air.  Wife preferred the Toyo, too. Could drive to NYC or Boston from EL and never had to get out to stretch my usually sore back.  Going back and forth to the cottage was a breeze, not a chore. Plus, after some haggling, the Camry was $19,700, before I added a moonroof and ABS. Add a thousand for each, so $21,700 for the overall highest rated car.

We usually own one car and lease another, and since that decision in ‘95, when Ford chased me out and GM refused to negotiate, we’ve had six Camrys, four RAV4s, and a 4Runner. There was an 18-month period when I stepped out on Toyota in favor of a Honda, maybe because I was curious, but — as good a car as it was, and it was great — I didn’t love it, so I fixed the glitch.

We’ve since purchased another vehicle that’s not Japanese, something my wife still raves about a year after buying it, but when my lease is up later this year, I’d be shocked if I didn’t stick with a Toyota or maybe a Lexus this time, and it won’t bother me one bit. And I’ll sleep like a baby, at least once I’m able to fall asleep, cuz insomnia sucks.

Watch Out Pylon! wrote:

tGreenWay wrote:

First of all, just stop with the anti-American BS. You know it’s not true, and it makes you sound ridiculous, so just stop.

tl:dr  If American car companies had treated me better and/or been willing to negotiate, I never would’ve discovered how Toyota consistently makes superior products, and I’ll probably never go back to an American car, however loosely that’s defined these days.

To answer your question, Pantry, the last American car I bought was an 88 1/2 Ford Escort. My first ever new car. Not too bad, either.

So, having answered your question, here’s the extra long version of how I came to be a devoted Toyota owner. I do t owe you an explanation, but I’m going to tell you, anyway:
In ‘95, when my then-girlfriend and I decided to buy a new car, I did all the research, and despite what all the auto experts said, I set my sights on the newly redesigned Ford Taurus and its amazing () new easy to use radio and dial controls. I went with the Taurus first because I grew up in a Ford family. I lived in a GM town, but it was always Ford first. My grandfather and uncle had both spent their careers there, one as an accountant and the other as a manager in the paint department at their Romeo plant (I think it was Romeo).
Called the dealer in advance to see if I could drive the new Taurus, and the man on the phone told me sure. Took time off from work, drove to Okemos, and started giving it the thorough look through. Sat inside and immediately got yelled at from some other guy because the car had apparently been sold to a friend of the GMs, as if I was supposed to know that. They didn’t have another one on the lot, and no one would bother to look at their sheets to see if/when another was due to be delivered. Turns out, through my brief time researching the new design, I’d learned more about the Taurus than any of the sales staff. They couldn’t answer any of my questions, “But but but look at the cool new dials!”
Bye.

Having eliminated the Taurus, or rather, Ford eliminating me for it, I went to check out the Olds 88. Pretty good car, not great ratings, but it would do, and it was nicer than the compact cars and/or beaters we’d both drivers. Plenty of 88s on the lot, so getting one wouldn’t be an issue. They wanted ~ $25k+ for it. Had great rapport with the sales guy, but they wouldn’t budge on price, and it was just out of our range. They wouldn’t even drop it a thousand, which could’ve made the difference.
Bye.

Drove to Petoskey to speak with my gramps, because the idea of buying foreign bugged the shit out of me. I knew what he’d done for Ford and, in return, what Ford had done for him. All those money-saving suggestions had made my gramps comfortable for life, especially since he’d earned stocks and a couple free cars along the way. But, as conservative and Conservative as he was, after discussing everything with him, he told me how let down he felt because of what had become of American car companies, starting with Ford.
Now, I’d gone to him looking for guidance, not permission, but he gave me his blessing, anyway. Told me American car companies had done it to themselves. He also said loyalty is a two way street; that if I’m dropping $20k, then I’d better be getting a car that was worth it. Said putting my money in a Toyo or Honda was a much smarter investment.

Back downstate a few days later: Test drove the Accord first, then the Camry. Liked the tighter steering and braking of the Honda, but the Camry was like gliding on air.  Wife preferred the Toyo, too. Could drive to NYC or Boston from EL and never had to get out to stretch my usually sore back.  Going back and forth to the cottage was a breeze, not a chore. Plus, after some haggling, the Camry was $19,700, before I added a moonroof and ABS. Add a thousand for each, so $21,700 for the overall highest rated car.

We usually own one car and lease another, and since that decision in ‘95, when Ford chased me out and GM refused to negotiate, we’ve had six Camrys, four RAV4s, and a 4Runner. There was an 18-month period when I stepped out on Toyota in favor of a Honda, maybe because I was curious, but — as good a car as it was, and it was great — I didn’t love it, so I fixed the glitch.

We’ve since purchased another vehicle that’s not Japanese, something my wife still raves about a year after buying it, but when my lease is up later this year, I’d be shocked if I didn’t stick with a Toyota or maybe a Lexus this time, and it won’t bother me one bit. And I’ll sleep like a baby, at least once I’m able to fall asleep, cuz insomnia sucks.

FYI: tl;dr is supposed to go on the short part.

I.B. Fine wrote:Just curious, Pantry, if you don't mind, could you tell us what you drive?
Cars and SUV/trucks are different markets and now there are few domestic cars worth considering, trucks/SUVs, on the other hand, absolutely good choices.

Robert J Sakimano wrote:

Jake from State Farm wrote:
Right, take this message board for instance. If you check real close you'll find out the software is Russian.

Я с большим презрением отношусь к tGreenWay

I.B. Fine wrote:

Я с большим презрением отношусь к

You and me both.

tGreenWay wrote:

Robert J Sakimano wrote:


Я с большим презрением отношусь к tGreenWay

Будь добр, трахни себя, Боб.

Robert J Sakimano wrote:

tGreenWay wrote:

Будь добр, трахни себя, Боб.

no you can't come over.. my wife is home.

tGreenWay wrote:

The Pantry wrote:You are anti-American, Greenway. When's the last time you purchased any vehicle made by the Big 3?

First of all, just stop with the anti-American BS. You know it’s not true, and it makes you sound ridiculous, so just stop.

tl:dr If American car companies had treated me better and/or been willing to negotiate, I never would’ve discovered how Toyota consistently makes superior products, and I’ll probably never go back to an American car, however loosely that’s defined these days.

To answer your question, Pantry, the last American car I bought was an 88 1/2 Ford Escort. My first ever new car. Not too bad, either.

So, having answered your question, here’s the extra long version of how I came to be a devoted Toyota owner. I dont owe you an explanation, but I’m going to tell you, anyway:
In ‘95, when my then-girlfriend and I decided to buy a new car, I did all the research, and despite what all the auto experts said, I set my sights on the newly redesigned Ford Taurus and its amazing () new easy to use radio and dial controls. I went with the Taurus first because I grew up in a Ford family. I lived in a GM town, but it was always Ford first. My grandfather and uncle had both spent their careers there, one as an accountant and the other as a manager in the paint department at their Romeo plant (I think it was Romeo).
Called the dealer in advance to see if I could drive the new Taurus, and the man on the phone told me sure. Took time off from work, drove to Okemos, and started giving it the thorough look through. Sat inside and immediately got yelled at from some other guy because the car had apparently been sold to a friend of the GMs, as if I was supposed to know that. They didn’t have another one on the lot, and no one would bother to look at their sheets to see if/when another was due to be delivered. Turns out, through my brief time researching the new design, I’d learned more about the Taurus than any of the sales staff. They couldn’t answer any of my questions, “But but but look at the cool new dials!”
Bye.

Having eliminated the Taurus, or rather, Ford eliminating me for it, I went to check out the Olds 88. Pretty good car, not great ratings, but it would do, and it was nicer than the compact cars and/or beaters we’d both driven. Plenty of 88s on the lot, so getting one wouldn’t be an issue. They wanted ~ $25k+ for it. Had great rapport with the sales guy, but they wouldn’t budge on price, and it was just out of our range. They wouldn’t even drop it a thousand, which could’ve made the difference.
Bye.

Drove to Petoskey to speak with my gramps, because the idea of buying foreign bugged the shit out of me. I knew what he’d done for Ford and, in return, what Ford had done for him. All those money-saving suggestions had made my gramps comfortable for life, especially since he’d earned stocks and a couple free cars along the way. But, as conservative and Conservative as he was, after discussing everything with him, he told me how let down he felt because of what had become of American car companies, starting with Ford.
Now, I’d gone to him looking for guidance, not permission, but he gave me his blessing, anyway. Told me American car companies had done it to themselves. He also said loyalty is a two way street; that if I’m dropping $20k, then I’d better be getting a car that was worth it. Said putting my money in a Toyo or Honda was a much smarter investment.

Back downstate a few days later: Test drove the Accord first, then the Camry. Liked the tighter steering and braking of the Honda, but the Camry was like gliding on air. Wife preferred the Toyo, too. Could drive to NYC or Boston from EL and never had to get out to stretch my usually sore back. Going back and forth to the cottage was a breeze, not a chore. Plus, after some haggling, the Camry was $19,700, before I added a moonroof and ABS. Add a thousand for each, so $21,700 for the overall highest rated car.

We usually own one car and lease another, and since that decision in ‘95, when Ford chased me out and GM refused to negotiate, we’ve had six Camrys, four RAV4s, and a 4Runner. There was an 18-month period when I stepped out on Toyota in favor of a Honda, maybe because I was curious, but — as good a car as it was, and it was great — I didn’t love it, so I fixed the glitch.

We’ve since purchased another vehicle that’s not Japanese, something my wife still raves about a year after buying it, but when my lease is up later this year, I’d be shocked if I didn’t stick with a Toyota or maybe a Lexus this time, and it won’t bother me one bit. And I’ll sleep like a baby, at least once I’m able to fall asleep, cuz insomnia sucks.

The Pantry wrote:

I.B. Fine wrote:Just curious, Pantry, if you don't mind, could you tell us what you drive?
Cars and SUV/trucks are different markets and now there are few domestic cars worth considering, trucks/SUVs, on the other hand, absolutely good choices.

Current vehicle is a 2004 GMC Envoy XL V8.  Bought it new.  Never owned a vehicle even close to this long.  Was bummed when GM discontinued the platform and haven't found anything I liked as well since.

tGreenWay wrote:

The Pantry wrote:You are anti-American, Greenway. When's the last time you purchased any vehicle made by the Big 3?

First of all, just stop with the anti-American BS. You know it’s not true, and it makes you sound ridiculous, so just stop.

tl:dr If American car companies had treated me better and/or been willing to negotiate, I never would’ve discovered how Toyota consistently makes superior products, and I’ll probably never go back to an American car, however loosely that’s defined these days.

To answer your question, Pantry, the last American car I bought was an 88 1/2 Ford Escort. My first ever new car. Not too bad, either.

So, having answered your question, here’s the extra long version of how I came to be a devoted Toyota owner. I dont owe you an explanation, but I’m going to tell you, anyway:
In ‘95, when my then-girlfriend and I decided to buy a new car, I did all the research, and despite what all the auto experts said, I set my sights on the newly redesigned Ford Taurus and its amazing () new easy to use radio and dial controls. I went with the Taurus first because I grew up in a Ford family. I lived in a GM town, but it was always Ford first. My grandfather and uncle had both spent their careers there, one as an accountant and the other as a manager in the paint department at their Romeo plant (I think it was Romeo).
Called the dealer in advance to see if I could drive the new Taurus, and the man on the phone told me sure. Took time off from work, drove to Okemos, and started giving it the thorough look through. Sat inside and immediately got yelled at from some other guy because the car had apparently been sold to a friend of the GMs, as if I was supposed to know that. They didn’t have another one on the lot, and no one would bother to look at their sheets to see if/when another was due to be delivered. Turns out, through my brief time researching the new design, I’d learned more about the Taurus than any of the sales staff. They couldn’t answer any of my questions, “But but but look at the cool new dials!”
Bye.

Having eliminated the Taurus, or rather, Ford eliminating me for it, I went to check out the Olds 88. Pretty good car, not great ratings, but it would do, and it was nicer than the compact cars and/or beaters we’d both driven. Plenty of 88s on the lot, so getting one wouldn’t be an issue. They wanted ~ $25k+ for it. Had great rapport with the sales guy, but they wouldn’t budge on price, and it was just out of our range. They wouldn’t even drop it a thousand, which could’ve made the difference.
Bye.

Drove to Petoskey to speak with my gramps, because the idea of buying foreign bugged the shit out of me. I knew what he’d done for Ford and, in return, what Ford had done for him. All those money-saving suggestions had made my gramps comfortable for life, especially since he’d earned stocks and a couple free cars along the way. But, as conservative and Conservative as he was, after discussing everything with him, he told me how let down he felt because of what had become of American car companies, starting with Ford.
Now, I’d gone to him looking for guidance, not permission, but he gave me his blessing, anyway. Told me American car companies had done it to themselves. He also said loyalty is a two way street; that if I’m dropping $20k, then I’d better be getting a car that was worth it. Said putting my money in a Toyo or Honda was a much smarter investment.

Back downstate a few days later: Test drove the Accord first, then the Camry. Liked the tighter steering and braking of the Honda, but the Camry was like gliding on air. Wife preferred the Toyo, too. Could drive to NYC or Boston from EL and never had to get out to stretch my usually sore back. Going back and forth to the cottage was a breeze, not a chore. Plus, after some haggling, the Camry was $19,700, before I added a moonroof and ABS. Add a thousand for each, so $21,700 for the overall highest rated car.

We usually own one car and lease another, and since that decision in ‘95, when Ford chased me out and GM refused to negotiate, we’ve had six Camrys, four RAV4s, and a 4Runner. There was an 18-month period when I stepped out on Toyota in favor of a Honda, maybe because I was curious, but — as good a car as it was, and it was great — I didn’t love it, so I fixed the glitch.

We’ve since purchased another vehicle that’s not Japanese, something my wife still raves about a year after buying it, but when my lease is up later this year, I’d be shocked if I didn’t stick with a Toyota or maybe a Lexus this time, and it won’t bother me one bit. And I’ll sleep like a baby, at least once I’m able to fall asleep, cuz insomnia sucks.

The Pantry wrote:

tGreenWay wrote:

First of all, just stop with the anti-American BS. You know it’s not true, and it makes you sound ridiculous, so just stop.

tl:dr If American car companies had treated me better and/or been willing to negotiate, I never would’ve discovered how Toyota consistently makes superior products, and I’ll probably never go back to an American car, however loosely that’s defined these days.

To answer your question, Pantry, the last American car I bought was an 88 1/2 Ford Escort. My first ever new car. Not too bad, either.

So, having answered your question, here’s the extra long version of how I came to be a devoted Toyota owner. I dont owe you an explanation, but I’m going to tell you, anyway:
In ‘95, when my then-girlfriend and I decided to buy a new car, I did all the research, and despite what all the auto experts said, I set my sights on the newly redesigned Ford Taurus and its amazing () new easy to use radio and dial controls. I went with the Taurus first because I grew up in a Ford family. I lived in a GM town, but it was always Ford first. My grandfather and uncle had both spent their careers there, one as an accountant and the other as a manager in the paint department at their Romeo plant (I think it was Romeo).
Called the dealer in advance to see if I could drive the new Taurus, and the man on the phone told me sure. Took time off from work, drove to Okemos, and started giving it the thorough look through. Sat inside and immediately got yelled at from some other guy because the car had apparently been sold to a friend of the GMs, as if I was supposed to know that. They didn’t have another one on the lot, and no one would bother to look at their sheets to see if/when another was due to be delivered. Turns out, through my brief time researching the new design, I’d learned more about the Taurus than any of the sales staff. They couldn’t answer any of my questions, “But but but look at the cool new dials!”
Bye.

Having eliminated the Taurus, or rather, Ford eliminating me for it, I went to check out the Olds 88. Pretty good car, not great ratings, but it would do, and it was nicer than the compact cars and/or beaters we’d both driven. Plenty of 88s on the lot, so getting one wouldn’t be an issue. They wanted ~ $25k+ for it. Had great rapport with the sales guy, but they wouldn’t budge on price, and it was just out of our range. They wouldn’t even drop it a thousand, which could’ve made the difference.
Bye.

Drove to Petoskey to speak with my gramps, because the idea of buying foreign bugged the shit out of me. I knew what he’d done for Ford and, in return, what Ford had done for him. All those money-saving suggestions had made my gramps comfortable for life, especially since he’d earned stocks and a couple free cars along the way. But, as conservative and Conservative as he was, after discussing everything with him, he told me how let down he felt because of what had become of American car companies, starting with Ford.
Now, I’d gone to him looking for guidance, not permission, but he gave me his blessing, anyway. Told me American car companies had done it to themselves. He also said loyalty is a two way street; that if I’m dropping $20k, then I’d better be getting a car that was worth it. Said putting my money in a Toyo or Honda was a much smarter investment.

Back downstate a few days later: Test drove the Accord first, then the Camry. Liked the tighter steering and braking of the Honda, but the Camry was like gliding on air. Wife preferred the Toyo, too. Could drive to NYC or Boston from EL and never had to get out to stretch my usually sore back. Going back and forth to the cottage was a breeze, not a chore. Plus, after some haggling, the Camry was $19,700, before I added a moonroof and ABS. Add a thousand for each, so $21,700 for the overall highest rated car.

We usually own one car and lease another, and since that decision in ‘95, when Ford chased me out and GM refused to negotiate, we’ve had six Camrys, four RAV4s, and a 4Runner. There was an 18-month period when I stepped out on Toyota in favor of a Honda, maybe because I was curious, but — as good a car as it was, and it was great — I didn’t love it, so I fixed the glitch.

We’ve since purchased another vehicle that’s not Japanese, something my wife still raves about a year after buying it, but when my lease is up later this year, I’d be shocked if I didn’t stick with a Toyota or maybe a Lexus this time, and it won’t bother me one bit. And I’ll sleep like a baby, at least once I’m able to fall asleep, cuz insomnia sucks.

Have a couple memories of an Olds Delta 88 from the late 70's. Thing was like a pussy palace on the inside but didn't drive for shit. What year were you looking at they wanted $25k?

Doubt your gramps was ever conservative. Sounds more like a bitter old UAW worker, thinking he should have received even more for his retirement.

tGreenWay wrote:

The Pantry wrote:You are anti-American, Greenway. When's the last time you purchased any vehicle made by the Big 3?

First of all, just stop with the anti-American BS. You know it’s not true, and it makes you sound ridiculous, so just stop.

tl:dr If American car companies had treated me better and/or been willing to negotiate, I never would’ve discovered how Toyota consistently makes superior products, and I’ll probably never go back to an American car, however loosely that’s defined these days.

To answer your question, Pantry, the last American car I bought was an 88 1/2 Ford Escort. My first ever new car. Not too bad, either.

So, having answered your question, here’s the extra long version of how I came to be a devoted Toyota owner. I dont owe you an explanation, but I’m going to tell you, anyway:
In ‘95, when my then-girlfriend and I decided to buy a new car, I did all the research, and despite what all the auto experts said, I set my sights on the newly redesigned Ford Taurus and its amazing () new easy to use radio and dial controls. I went with the Taurus first because I grew up in a Ford family. I lived in a GM town, but it was always Ford first. My grandfather and uncle had both spent their careers there, one as an accountant and the other as a manager in the paint department at their Romeo plant (I think it was Romeo).
Called the dealer in advance to see if I could drive the new Taurus, and the man on the phone told me sure. Took time off from work, drove to Okemos, and started giving it the thorough look through. Sat inside and immediately got yelled at from some other guy because the car had apparently been sold to a friend of the GMs, as if I was supposed to know that. They didn’t have another one on the lot, and no one would bother to look at their sheets to see if/when another was due to be delivered. Turns out, through my brief time researching the new design, I’d learned more about the Taurus than any of the sales staff. They couldn’t answer any of my questions, “But but but look at the cool new dials!”
Bye.

Having eliminated the Taurus, or rather, Ford eliminating me for it, I went to check out the Olds 88. Pretty good car, not great ratings, but it would do, and it was nicer than the compact cars and/or beaters we’d both driven. Plenty of 88s on the lot, so getting one wouldn’t be an issue. They wanted ~ $25k+ for it. Had great rapport with the sales guy, but they wouldn’t budge on price, and it was just out of our range. They wouldn’t even drop it a thousand, which could’ve made the difference.
Bye.

Drove to Petoskey to speak with my gramps, because the idea of buying foreign bugged the shit out of me. I knew what he’d done for Ford and, in return, what Ford had done for him. All those money-saving suggestions had made my gramps comfortable for life, especially since he’d earned stocks and a couple free cars along the way. But, as conservative and Conservative as he was, after discussing everything with him, he told me how let down he felt because of what had become of American car companies, starting with Ford.
Now, I’d gone to him looking for guidance, not permission, but he gave me his blessing, anyway. Told me American car companies had done it to themselves. He also said loyalty is a two way street; that if I’m dropping $20k, then I’d better be getting a car that was worth it. Said putting my money in a Toyo or Honda was a much smarter investment.

Back downstate a few days later: Test drove the Accord first, then the Camry. Liked the tighter steering and braking of the Honda, but the Camry was like gliding on air. Wife preferred the Toyo, too. Could drive to NYC or Boston from EL and never had to get out to stretch my usually sore back. Going back and forth to the cottage was a breeze, not a chore. Plus, after some haggling, the Camry was $19,700, before I added a moonroof and ABS. Add a thousand for each, so $21,700 for the overall highest rated car.

We usually own one car and lease another, and since that decision in ‘95, when Ford chased me out and GM refused to negotiate, we’ve had six Camrys, four RAV4s, and a 4Runner. There was an 18-month period when I stepped out on Toyota in favor of a Honda, maybe because I was curious, but — as good a car as it was, and it was great — I didn’t love it, so I fixed the glitch.

We’ve since purchased another vehicle that’s not Japanese, something my wife still raves about a year after buying it, but when my lease is up later this year, I’d be shocked if I didn’t stick with a Toyota or maybe a Lexus this time, and it won’t bother me one bit. And I’ll sleep like a baby, at least once I’m able to fall asleep, cuz insomnia sucks.

I.B. Fine wrote:

The Pantry wrote:
Current vehicle is a 2004 GMC Envoy XL V8.  Bought it new.  Never owned a vehicle even close to this long.  Was bummed when GM discontinued the platform and haven't found anything I liked as well since.

That's impressive, much rust?

tGreenWay wrote:

Jesus, you are so fucking stupid.

steveschneider wrote:

tGreenWay wrote:

First of all, just stop with the anti-American BS. You know it’s not true, and it makes you sound ridiculous, so just stop.

tl:dr If American car companies had treated me better and/or been willing to negotiate, I never would’ve discovered how Toyota consistently makes superior products, and I’ll probably never go back to an American car, however loosely that’s defined these days.

To answer your question, Pantry, the last American car I bought was an 88 1/2 Ford Escort. My first ever new car. Not too bad, either.

So, having answered your question, here’s the extra long version of how I came to be a devoted Toyota owner. I dont owe you an explanation, but I’m going to tell you, anyway:
In ‘95, when my then-girlfriend and I decided to buy a new car, I did all the research, and despite what all the auto experts said, I set my sights on the newly redesigned Ford Taurus and its amazing () new easy to use radio and dial controls. I went with the Taurus first because I grew up in a Ford family. I lived in a GM town, but it was always Ford first. My grandfather and uncle had both spent their careers there, one as an accountant and the other as a manager in the paint department at their Romeo plant (I think it was Romeo).
Called the dealer in advance to see if I could drive the new Taurus, and the man on the phone told me sure. Took time off from work, drove to Okemos, and started giving it the thorough look through. Sat inside and immediately got yelled at from some other guy because the car had apparently been sold to a friend of the GMs, as if I was supposed to know that. They didn’t have another one on the lot, and no one would bother to look at their sheets to see if/when another was due to be delivered. Turns out, through my brief time researching the new design, I’d learned more about the Taurus than any of the sales staff. They couldn’t answer any of my questions, “But but but look at the cool new dials!”
Bye.

Having eliminated the Taurus, or rather, Ford eliminating me for it, I went to check out the Olds 88. Pretty good car, not great ratings, but it would do, and it was nicer than the compact cars and/or beaters we’d both driven. Plenty of 88s on the lot, so getting one wouldn’t be an issue. They wanted ~ $25k+ for it. Had great rapport with the sales guy, but they wouldn’t budge on price, and it was just out of our range. They wouldn’t even drop it a thousand, which could’ve made the difference.
Bye.

Drove to Petoskey to speak with my gramps, because the idea of buying foreign bugged the shit out of me. I knew what he’d done for Ford and, in return, what Ford had done for him. All those money-saving suggestions had made my gramps comfortable for life, especially since he’d earned stocks and a couple free cars along the way. But, as conservative and Conservative as he was, after discussing everything with him, he told me how let down he felt because of what had become of American car companies, starting with Ford.
Now, I’d gone to him looking for guidance, not permission, but he gave me his blessing, anyway. Told me American car companies had done it to themselves. He also said loyalty is a two way street; that if I’m dropping $20k, then I’d better be getting a car that was worth it. Said putting my money in a Toyo or Honda was a much smarter investment.

Back downstate a few days later: Test drove the Accord first, then the Camry. Liked the tighter steering and braking of the Honda, but the Camry was like gliding on air. Wife preferred the Toyo, too. Could drive to NYC or Boston from EL and never had to get out to stretch my usually sore back. Going back and forth to the cottage was a breeze, not a chore. Plus, after some haggling, the Camry was $19,700, before I added a moonroof and ABS. Add a thousand for each, so $21,700 for the overall highest rated car.

We usually own one car and lease another, and since that decision in ‘95, when Ford chased me out and GM refused to negotiate, we’ve had six Camrys, four RAV4s, and a 4Runner. There was an 18-month period when I stepped out on Toyota in favor of a Honda, maybe because I was curious, but — as good a car as it was, and it was great — I didn’t love it, so I fixed the glitch.

We’ve since purchased another vehicle that’s not Japanese, something my wife still raves about a year after buying it, but when my lease is up later this year, I’d be shocked if I didn’t stick with a Toyota or maybe a Lexus this time, and it won’t bother me one bit. And I’ll sleep like a baby, at least once I’m able to fall asleep, cuz insomnia sucks.

I used to drive an Olds 88. Big old boat. Thing was rear wheel drive and difficult to handle on snowy roads. Pretty reliable car though.

The Pantry wrote:

tGreenWay wrote:

Jesus, you are so fucking stupid.

You and your gramps are still in denial.

WhiteBoyHatcher wrote:I don't understand all of the hand wringing, ultimatums and hand wringing. Do people really look at a car as anything more than a depreciating asset these days?

tGreenWay wrote:

The Pantry wrote:You and your gramps are still in denial.

You should quit while you’re behind. You really are embarrassing yourself.

The Pantry wrote:

tGreenWay wrote:

You should quit while you’re behind. You really are embarrassing yourself.

You've still not answered my question. Shoprite Spartan or actual Spartan?

tGreenWay wrote:

WhiteBoyHatcher wrote:I don't understand all of the hand wringing, ultimatums and hand wringing. Do people really look at a car as anything more than a depreciating asset these days?

Pantry wants us to spend a lot of money for an inferior product just so he can feel good about what he makes. He’s asking for a handout.

tGreenWay wrote:

The Pantry wrote:You've still not answered my question. Shoprite Spartan or actual Spartan?

What the actual hell are you talking about?

Other Teams Pursuing That wrote:In the end, they are just fucking cars. Who actually gives a flying fuck? (What wbh said)

Other Teams Pursuing That wrote:In the end, they are just fucking cars. Who actually gives a flying fuck? (What wbh said)

Other Teams Pursuing That wrote:In the end, they are just fucking cars. Who actually gives a flying fuck? (What wbh said)

Robert J Sakimano wrote:

Other Teams Pursuing That wrote:In the end, they are just fucking cars. Who actually gives a flying fuck? (What wbh said)

this.

Isn't it just a bucket of Chinese metal/fiberglass designed to carry people to an All-U-Can-Eat restaurant?

steveschneider wrote:

Robert J Sakimano wrote: this.

Isn't it just a bucket of Chinese metal/fiberglass designed to carry people to an All-U-Can-Eat restaurant?

Yep. I never took pride in ownership, I don’t like dealerships and a huge factor in why I moved to nyc is because I prefer public transportation. I also ride my bike where I can. I guess the future of the auto industry is where you just order automatic driving car on your phone to pick you up and take you to your destination. It’s going to be a subscription service and will eliminate the need for ownership. Sounds good to me.

steveschneider wrote:

Robert J Sakimano wrote: this.

Isn't it just a bucket of Chinese metal/fiberglass designed to carry people to an All-U-Can-Eat restaurant?

Yep. I never took pride in ownership, I don’t like dealerships and a huge factor in why I moved to nyc is because I prefer public transportation. I also ride my bike where I can. I guess the future of the auto industry is where you just order automatic driving car on your phone to pick you up and take you to your destination. It’s going to be a subscription service and will eliminate the need for ownership. Sounds good to me.

TheReal_LWS wrote:

steveschneider wrote:

Yep. I never took pride in ownership, I don’t like dealerships and a huge factor in why I moved to nyc is because I prefer public transportation. I also ride my bike where I can. I guess the future of the auto industry is where you just order automatic driving car on your phone to pick you up and take you to your destination. It’s going to be a subscription service and will eliminate the need for ownership. Sounds good to me.

Ah yes. Public transportation......the petri dish of modern society............

TheReal_LWS wrote:

steveschneider wrote:

Yep. I never took pride in ownership, I don’t like dealerships and a huge factor in why I moved to nyc is because I prefer public transportation. I also ride my bike where I can. I guess the future of the auto industry is where you just order automatic driving car on your phone to pick you up and take you to your destination. It’s going to be a subscription service and will eliminate the need for ownership. Sounds good to me.

Ah yes. Public transportation......the petri dish of modern society............

steveschneider wrote:

TheReal_LWS wrote:

Ah yes. Public transportation......the petri dish of modern society............

True. But I saved money and I have a stronger immune system as a result. When these lethal strains of the flu or seasonal bugs come around I rarely get them. I did get the swine flu but I blame it on my office. Two other coworkers had it and it was working it’s way up and down the corridor. Some idiots come in to work sick to try to show the boss how dedicated they are and well when you are around someone like that 8-10hrs a day it’s bound to happen.