Re: [OT] My (non-Audi) car was stolen last night...

["Ken Keith" <auditude@neta.com>]

Here are some of my thoughts on the subject:

I used to not respect my Saturn very much, after being spoiled by 
the sensory experience of driving a mid-80's Audi.  I would call it 
the plastic car, Tupper-car (tm), etc.  The Saturn is a step down 
from an Audi, imo.

However, driving the Escort rental car that I got yesterday put 
things a bit in perspective.  Hopefully not offending anyone too 
much, but I feel sorry for those that have to drive them, and I don't 
know what to think about those that actually like them.  The Saturn 
isn't a bad car, especially newer ones.  Mine was noisier than I 
prefer, but I had planned on packing the plastic fenders with 
insulation, and perhaps Dynamatting the plastic door panels.  
Newer ones are getting very good, improvements every year on 
noise and everything else.

I had just finally given in and tinted the windows, and put some 
decent Pioneer speakers in it.  I was resisting putting money into 
it, but the Arizona summer was very persuasive.  I thought I was 
being practical, since I didn't see getting rid of it on the horizon 
anytime soon.  Brand new Optima red top battery only like two 
weeks ago (and radiator, btw).  With 123k on the '94, I wouldn't say 
it was any more reliable than my mid-80's Audis with 150k+, but 
the parts were sure cheaper.  After buying a house which should 
happen soon, I was going to replace the clutch and struts.

If I were going to get an economy-minded commuter car, I would 
and did, get a Saturn.  I like the fact that it's not a Honda, that it 
tries to help the domestic job market and economy, and it ain't half 
bad.  Audi's are still the best mix of luxury, performance, heritage, 
technology/engineering, and character for me, tho'.

Ken

p.s.  Fords certainly do have a consistent, certain "feel" to them.  It 
must be intentional, since it occurs thoughout their line of cars.  I 
just don't like that "feel".  The controls remind me of Fisher-Price or 
Playskool. <shiver>

p.p.s.  The Saturn purchase happened in a strange chain of events, 
which included me almost buying a Audi 90 20v, which was bought 
by another lister later that day, after I chose not to.  On my way 
back home, with a pocketfull of cash, I was convinced by my 
mother that I needed a more reliable commuter car for my 48 mile 
each way daily trip to work.  I was driving a pieced together, 
salvaged titled '85 Coupe GT, and somehow I agreed.  Darn ASC 
full automatic sunroof made me like the car.

DOUBLDz@aol.com wrote:
> 
> >Sorry to hear that, but now is your chance to get a Audi to replace the 
> >Saturn!
> 
> >Shayne
> 
> I have to say this though....every time I get a loaner, its a Corolla or a 
> Cavalier or a Sunbird or a Neon. The last time Baby was in for service I was 
> the first one in and the first one out...the loaner basket was filled with 
> keys. The guy said pick anyone you want. I rummaged around and found all of 
> the above then I see keys for a Ford Explorer. "I'll take this one." (Just to 
> see what all the fuss was about.) All except that one he says (figures). So I 
> take the Saturn. It had 16 miles on it!!!! I have to say it was OK to drive. 
> I didn't mind it at all except that I couldn't get the back of the seat up 
> straight enough (I like to sit up straight when I drive). I liked it so much 
> that when asked what kind of car I want next time Baby goes in (October 4th 
> for the big 60K service...where does the time go?) I asked for a Saturn.
> 
> De
> 95A6q pearl