RE: Towing With V8 (was: Boating with an S4)

["Paul Wilson" <pauldwilson@ne.mediaone.net>]

> I realize there is more to it than HP and torque. You are the
> second person
> to cite unibody vs. body on frame construction as being a factor.
> I fail to
> see the relationship. I would think that torque transfer is key
> in addition
> to vehicle weight. The V8 is certainly no lightweight. I would not be too
> surprised if it is just as porky as the Safari minivan. However, the
> Safari's 4.3 V6 might have more usable low end torque which is something
> the Audi's pathetic automatic transmission squanders in copious
> quantities.
> Does anyone have any towing specs for the V8 5 speed?

I'm no expert, but part of the reason body on frame is better is that you
know the hitch is well attached to the car.  With unibody, they may have
decided to save some weight at the back of the car where there's no real
load carried(with no trailer).

Also, say what you will about American car manufacturers, but they do
automatics very well(makes sense since most lazy Americans drive them).
Autocratics are better for towing since they multiply the torque and give
smoother takeoffs from idle.  Also, have you ever tried to back up a trailer
with a manual transmission car?  What a PITA that is.

Do yourself and your car a favor.  If you want to tow a relatively heavy
trailer, go buy a pickup.  I'm going to buy a either a Ford Ranger or a
Toyota in a year or so for this purpose and Home Depot runs.  Then again I
spend too much at that place as it is.

Paul Wilson