kfb@houxb.UUCP (K.BRAND) (02/10/84)
I just finished the shopping around process for a new, small
car.
All of the following statements are my personal opinions,
please do not flame me!
Renault Encore: I was very impressed with the smooth ride, the
excellent brakes (stops fast and straight), and the interior room.
The acceleration was adequate.
It was made slightly cheaper than other cars, but it sells for less.
Dealers will definitely discount this car.
Dodge Colt: Didn't drive this car because it was too small.
It came in last on previous years crash test.
Turbo version is supposed to be very fast.
Cheapest of all small cars I looked at.
Toyota Tercel: The Tercel has a very smooth ride, pretty good
brakes, and reasonable interior room.
It seemed to be put together very well.
Of course, it has the best reputation for reliability.
This was my second choice because of its reliability record.
Honda Civic: I didn't drive this car because my wife did
not like the unusual interior design.
The back seat is very close to the back of the car, leaving
very little space for storage between the seat and the hatch.
Seemed like a good buy for the money.
Subaru: We currently own a Subaru and like it very much.
However, they aren't "inexpensive" anymore.
We wanted something different this time, especially with
the recent problems we've had with the subaru brakes.
Honda Civic CRX: This is the two seater version of the Civic.
It has the larger, new, 12 valve engine, wider tires, and
tach (believe it or not, a tach was not even an option on
many cars we looked at).
It was comparable in price to the other cars, even though
we payed about sticker, with no discount on the options.
(by the way, Toyota dealers would sell you a Tercel for
below sticker if you put options on it).
This car is suprisingly fast, because its so light (1700 lbs).
Brakes are adaquete, handling is well above average (special
rear stabilizer bars are added).
I guess its no surprise that we bought this car.
I'm still waiting for delivery and hoping the dealer
doesn't ***** me.
Kevin Brand
houxb!kfb