> Really? Then why is the Toyota Matrix/Pontiac Vibe 300 lb heavier than my 1992 Corolla AWD wagon, despite the fact it has nowhere near the same amount of room? And 50% more expensive? And rated to get virtually the same real world mileage my wagon gets, despite a decade of development in engine design? < Because that brand new Matrix/Vibe has to pass crash tests that your old Corolla never had to. Sort of an oxyomoron, people want safer cars and better gas mileage, not realizing that they contradict each other. For that Matrix to get the same mileage as a vehicle weighing 10% less is a testament to the engine technology. Plus that new car has to have OBD II which gies it much better emissions controls than your old OBD I vehicle. The IIHS just completed a study where they found that real world statistics back up their poor/average/good/excellent crash ratings. The better the rating the less chance of dieing in a wreck http://www.hwysafety.org/news_releases/2004/pr020504.htm > The Matrix is not an isolated case, either. Virtually all vehicles of this size have put on weight. They can afford to add motors and actuators for door locks, seats, windows, and mirrors, but can't put a few ounces into reinforcing the roof rack attachment points? < Because nearly every buyer wants the power widgets and better crash ratings but only a small percentage care about hauling boats on the roof. Why add $100 to the cost per vehicle to satisfy only a few customers? Doesn't make a valid business case. > More aerodynamic, perhaps, but that is the only improvement I can see in recent cars. That is why I am sticking with the old-tech small station wagons of a decade ago. More real-world useful features, like interior volume, rain gutters, ground clearance, combined with decent fuel economy, longevity and reliability. < But worse emissions and crash worthiness. Your choice... Mel *************************************************************************** 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/ ***************************************************************************
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