Gary posted (snip): >>Lets see what we can say...New model uses 180 pounds less materials...2. New model has same or maybe better gas mileage...3. New model has more truck-like features...4. Unclear if safety is reduced in new model. What can we add to this list?<< Subaru's are very popular here in BC. I know more than one driver who has rolled them over, off the edge of a logging road (or been forces off), only to walk away without a scratch. One that I saw had rolled 200 feet. Nothing left on the outside, but the interior was still intact and maintained a drivers envelope. Secondly, for a paddler who must travel miles of logging roads, but without the need for real off-road performance, vehicles like the tougher Subaru models excel in terms of longevity. When I purchased my mini van a few years ago, I had actually wanted a Subaru, but the van was preferred by the rest of the family for the amount of room. My accumulated mileage isn't high, but I'm already in need of new struts, new shocks, new bearings (the rear ones are $300.00 each), and new tires. My top-of-the-line tires (one, anyway) just blew a belt. The warranty is prorated and isn't much good after 50,000 km. Anyway, the bill is about $2000.00 (there goes my savings for a new Foster Legend, again). I know for a fact that the Subaru vehicles hold up better than my van on logging roads, and do come with larger, tougher rims and wheels I believe, not to mention suspension components. If I traded the van in, these days, I'd probably get a small SUV like a Hyundai Santa Fe, though I'd be killed by my kids -- and maybe some paddling friends. Doug Lloyd (who plans on towing his kayak by bike in the spring more and more) Victoria BC *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************Received on Thu Feb 05 2004 - 06:15:08 PST
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