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, Fri, 23 Sep 2005 21:40:12
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After researching and driving half a dozen vehicles, which were:
Ford Focus ZX5 and ZXW
Hyundai Elantra 5DR
Kia Spectra 5
Scion xB
Suzuki Aerio
Suzuki Reno
I ended up with the Suzuki Aerio. It's a compact four door hatchback, rather shorter than the 9000 but taller. Out of everything I drove, it had by far the best performance, with 155 HP at 6000 and 152 lb-ft at 3000 rpm (coincidentally same rpm that torque peaked in my 9000). Curb weight is just under 2700 pounds. I got it in a five speed, which was an extreme rarity among all these cars. The transmission is a joy to use compared to the old 9000 (even freshly rebuilt). It's really a fun car to drive, though I think overall the Saab handles better. Naturally I am missing the Saab's extra power and torque (thanks to the turbo and my many modifications), but even so, the Suzuki feels just as quick around town, just not so much on the freeway. It has surprising low rpm pull though for a non-turbo four cylinder (2.3l). It also was the only one on my list with automatic climate control, and only one out of two with a timing chain (Scion xB was the other). The seats are comfortable with very upscale fabric compared to anything but leather (didn't want leather), nice sounding stock stereo, but naturally it has loads of room for improvement. Despite the cargo area being about 8" shorter than that of the 9000 with the rear seats folded, cargo capacity is actually about 7 cubic feet more, due to the taller roof. Anyhow, don't want to bore you with all the details until you ask for them. :)
Will be happy to answer a stereo question if I can. I probably won't be visiting here as often though. I am selling my 9000, have a guy somewhat local who wants to buy it. Naturally, I'll get extremely little compared to what I have put into it, but my my concern is that it go to someone who appreciates the car, and I know this guy will. It doesn't hurt that he does he own repairs too (one of the things that was killing me - labor up to $90 an hour here now). I'll miss it, the extra interior space, a real glovebox, ultra-comfortable seats, kick-ass stereo and the extra power. Won't mind the extra MPG in the new car, and having A/C for the first time in 6 years, plus (one hopes) no car repairs for a long time.
Aaron Gilbert
1987 9000T 329k miles
2005 Suzuki Aerio SX 0.34k miles
posted by 64.40.5...
, Sat, 24 Sep 2005 14:47:30, Fri, 23 Sep 2005 21:40:12, Sat, 24 Sep 2005 07:57:14
, Mon, 26 Sep 2005 08:12:04
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