Just for Fun - By Mike Cotsworth
Girls just want to have fun – Automotively too…
by Mike Cotsworth
Automobiles have been fundamental to Male Culture ever since Karl Benz put an engine on a bicycle frame. Cars and the male ego seem inseparable, Henry Ford and Enzo Ferrari didn’t name their companies after their wives. The image of the automobile is inevitably linked to male icons – Clark Gable’s Dusenberg, James Dean’s Porsche Spyder, Steve McQueen’s Mustang. Let’s not forget the Batmobile, and General Lee in the Dukes of Hazard. Who remembers what kind of car The Bionic Woman, Lavern & Shirley, or the Desperate Housewives drive…?
The predominance of male automotive associations notwithstanding, women do drive cars. In fact, the Fairer Sex makes up the majority of the population, and statistics tell us that women purchase more than half of the new vehicles sold in this country. No one would argue that women influence something like 90% of all vehicle purchases ! Automakers have realized this; note how many commercials and advertisements now feature women driving and participating in the car shopping experience. After all, who is it that pilots most of those minivans to soccer practice, and who is the main chauffer in the family…? The reality is that many women are just as knowledgeable about the family car as are their husbands, many women are avid motorsports fans, and many women are independent enough to choose and purchase their own vehicles.
However, men and women are different (thankfully !), and women do seem to approach car buying differently than men. Women are supposedly more influenced by emotional factors than men, but not when it comes to buying a vehicle. Oh sure, men do their homework about fuel economy, safety ratings, and cargo space; and yes, women are drawn to a certain color, and think the car may be “cute”. However, women don’t seem to have the “automotive identity” issue common to most men. We may pretend to be practical when planning an automotive purchase, but in truth we are seeking that sex appeal, machismo, or sophistication that we feel the right car will bestow upon us. Women don’t have this confused agenda, perhaps being more sure of their identities, and can concentrate on getting the vehicle that actually meets their particular transportation needs.
While automobile manufactures and marketing types have recognized the significant impact of female buyers, too many Dealers have not. It is still common for salesmen to ignore women in the showroom; or worse, ask female customers when their husbands or boyfriends will be coming in to “make the deal”. Women are typically quoted higher prices, and offered lower trade-in values than their male counterparts. It’s true that women are less likely to be confrontational and tough negotiators than men, accordingly the dealership system takes advantage of them.
Such practices are way outdated, insensitive, and just plain stupid ! The better dealerships are catching on, training their salesmen to respect women customers, and are hiring more female salespersons. Women are a major force in the automotive world, it’s good business, and essential to survival, to recognize this fact.
Ford Fusion and Lincoln Zephyr – saviors for Ford…?
by Mike Cotsworth
Much to-do has been made in the media of late about the dire straights of the ”Big 3” domestic automakers. Billions of dollars of losses and diminished market share, factory closures and thousands of employees facing lay-offs, and even fears of bankruptcy, have plagued former blue-chip giants General Motors, Ford, and Chrysler.
Most knowledgeable observers and industry analysts agree that in order for these once dominant automakers to regain any semblance of their former glory, and even to survive, they must produce better automobiles. It’s all about “product”, and for the Big 3 to stay big, they must built cars that generate excitement, that offer value, and that customers want to own.
For Ford Motor Company, one of the most important weapons in the battle to regain market share is the Fusion sedan, and its cousins, the Lincoln Zephyr and Mercury Milan. These vehicles aim squarely at the popular mid-sized family sedan market, where the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord have traded off the top spot for most number of cars sold in the country.
The Ford Fusion looks to be a strong contender in this class. It is a totally new design, with clean uncluttered lines. The Tungsten Silver model I drove drew a lot of attention, and received overwhelmingly positive response. Nicely styled wrap around front and rear lights, and chrome tipped dual exhausts give the car a distinctive and substantial appearance. Powered by a 3.0 liter Duratec V6 with 221 horsepower, the Fusion has enough get-up-and-go for around town driving as well as highway acceleration. The real beauty of the drivetrain is the 6 speed automatic transmission that works smoothly to get the very best performance from the engine. The Fusion is rated at 21 MPG in town, and 29 MPG Highway.
On the road, the Fusion feels very tight, with good responsive handling and a firm ride. 17 inch aluminum wheels are standard, but surprisingly, ABS brakes and Traction Control are extra-charge options. The optional leather heated seats are comfortable and supportive, the dash board, highlighted by an attractive round analogue clock, is elegantly simple yet highly functional. A 6-way power adjustable driver’s seat, leather wrapped steering wheel with cruise control, audio, and climate controls, and exterior courtesy lights under the side mirrors are nice convenience features. With a competitive price of $25,000, the Fusion SEL offers a lot of value. Time will tell, but it looks like Ford got it right with the new Fusion.
For those drivers ready to move upscale, the Lincoln Zephyr has all the virtues of the Ford Fusion with an added dash of luxury. Leather is now standard, with seats adjustable 10 ways, and both heated and cooled. The steering wheel is wood and leather, the dash is trimmed in wood instead of black plastic, the quad headlights are halogen, the windshield wipers are speed sensitive, traction Control is standard, and you get a 6 CD in-dash changer. More importantly, the warranty is now 4 year or 50,000 miles, including 12 momths/12,000 miles of complimentary maintenance. The Zephyr is a little heavier than the Fusion, and the ride tuned a bit sifter. The combination makes for somewhat sluggish handling, and more engine noise under acceleration. Including the optional Navigation system at $ 2,500, the Lincoln Zephyr lists at $33,000
Little cars with lots to offer…
by Mike Cotsworth
It has been an interesting phenomoum this snowy winter, to watch the feeding frenzy for SUV’s. Frustrated with seemingly never ending weekend snow storms that left local neighborhood roads virtually impassable for normal sized 2 wheel drive cars, many drivers abandoned their cars, some quite literally, and went out and bought a 4x4 SUV.
Now that Spring appears to be on the horizon, most of the snow is finally melted, and gas prices are on the rise, with more increases forecasted, many of those SUV owners may well turn to thoughts of smaller, more fuel efficient vehicles.
The automobile shopper looking for good fuel economy these days has a number of choices. The traditional compact car is a popular choice, Honda Civics, Toyota Corollas, and Dodge Neons come to mind. For those with a somewhat larger budget, and/or a keener environmental sensitivity, there is the growing flock of Hybrid vehicles to consider. The forward thinker who likes to live on the edge might consider a tiny Smart Car, or all electric vehicle. While these innovative machines do deliver outstanding fuel economy, their diminutive size does make getting around pretty intimidating when sharing the roadway with SUV’s and pick up trucks !
Without getting too extreme, there is yet another alternative for the economy minded auto buyer. Check out the subcompact vehicle class.
The Nissan Versa is just such a subcompact. With a wheelbase of less than 100 inches, and a weight of less than 3000 pounds, the Versa is petite, without being terrifyingly tiny. Rated fuel economy is 28 MPG city, and 35 MPG highway. Price, pretty well equipped, hovers right around $14,000. Styling, like most Nissans, is inoffensive, yet mildly distinctive. The example I drove was equipped with ABS brakes, keyless entry, and power windows and locks. The standard 122 Horsepower 1.8 liter 4-cylinder engine is adequate, coupled to a 4 speed automatic. The Versa is a little sluggish off the line, but accelerates well once it gets going. Handling is competent, and the ride smooth and comfortable. The interior is not claustrophobic, and is well appointed with easy to read white gauges and a simple dash layout. Audio controls on the back of the steering wheel are a nice touch, automatic locking doors are not. All in all, the Versa is a nice little car, with little to criticize.
For the buyer with another $1000 to spend, take a look at the Suzuki SX 4. Yes, Suzuki makes cars as well as motorcycles. The SX4 hatchback is similar in size and fuel economy to the Versa, but puts out 143 HP from its 2.0 liter engine. The big bonus is that the SX 4 is All Wheel Drive, providing the best type of drive in all road conditions. Equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission, the Suzuki is fairly peppy, and fun to drive. Exterior styling includes a big windshield and cute little windows at the front corners of the dash. The black on white instrument cluster features a big center located speedometer, with other gauges arranged to either side. A red video display tells you time, outside temperature, and mileage to empty. The interior feels spacious, and the plaid covered seats are quite comfortable. The SX 4 is a surprisingly nice little car with a lot to like.
A lifelong automotive enthusiast, Mike Cotsworth owns Car Connections, Ltd., an Automotive Consulting company based in Parker. Mike provides a personalized buying service to help individuals save time and money when buying or leasing a new or used vehicle. Contact him at 303-841-0478 or carguy@carconnections.com.
The New Generation of VW’s…
by Mike Cotsworth
Volkswagen, affectionately known to us all as VW, has really moved upscale of late. While VW does still make the new Beetle, a modern reincarnation of the beloved “VW Bug” of yesteryear, its higher volume mainstream vehicles, the Jetta and Passat, are a far cry from the automaker’s traditional image.
The Passat is VW’s entry in the mid-sized, real car, category. Available with either a turbo-charged 4 cylinder engine, or a potent V6, the standard Passat routes its power through the front wheels. A more expensive V6 All Wheel Drive 4-Motion version is at the top of the line. Don’t pity the 2.0 liter turbo model, as it packs plenty of punch with 200 Horsepower and is a delight to drive. VW, perhaps better than any automaker, has solved the inherent problems with Front Wheel Drive and builds a peppy car with negligible torque steer. The Passat has nice acceleration, lightening quick shifts from the 6-speed automatic transmission, and solid handling. Inside, plenty of leather, an expansive sun roof, scores of air bags, a stylish dash, and an intuitive video display let you know you’re in an upscale German sedan. With ample rear leg room and a price just over $27,000, the Passat represents a pretty attractive value.
In keeping with VW’s practice of offering varied engine configurations, the somewhat smaller Jetta can be had with a 2.5 liter non-turbo 5-cylinder power plant, the same 2.0 liter turbo-charged 4-cylinder from the Passt, or a 1.9 liter turbo-diesel. The 2.5 liter engine puts out 150 horse power, more than enough for spirited performance in the lighter Jetta. Handling is tight and responsive. Stylish exterior, surprisingly roomy interior, austere but functional cockpit, the Jetta is most everything you could ask for in an efficient German sports sedan. Equipped with the 5-speed manual transmission, this Jetta gets up to 35 mpg highway, and 26 mpg around town. Priced at just $21,000 pretty well outfitted with 16 inch alloy wheels and a 6-disc in dash stereo, along with VW’s 4 year/50,000 mile warranty, the Jetta looks like a heck of a bargain.
The basic Jetta models are fine cars, but for maximum fun factor, consider stepping up to the Jetta GLI. This is the hot model, with that 200 horsepower turbo. Outfitted with independent sports suspension all around, anti-slip electronic locking differential, ABS brakes, and special 18 inch wheels, the GLI is a rocket. Bright red brake calipers, a red trim line around the deep Audi-like grill, and a sweet sounding exhaust note proclaim the performance personality of this Jetta. Climb inside and settle into the grippy sports seats, leather and heated of course. Grip the fat leather steering wheel, rounded on top and flat across the bottom like in a Formula One race car. Note the alloy covered pedals, well positioned for heel and toe downshifting the 6-speed transmission.. Thankfully there is a dead pedal on the fire wall as well, necessary to brace yourself while exploring the considerable corning capabilities of the GLI. As befitting its healthy $28,000 price tag, the GLI is fully optioned out with sun roof, hot stereo, all the air bags, and Bi-Xenon headlights. At 28 to 37 MPG it’s still a VW, but with the soul of a sports car.
Bridgestone Winter Driving School – Confidence builder…
by Mike Cotsworth
Confidence can make all the difference. Whatever we try to do, or find ourselves having to do, if we have confidence in ourselves, in our skills and abilities, our approach to challenging situations is apt to be one of relaxed anticipation rather than fearful trepidation.
Winter driving is certainly one of those situations that can bring sweat to the brow and knots to the stomach. Wouldn’t it be nice to confront slippery snow and icy roadways with confidence rather than sheer terror?
The Bridgestone Winter Driving School is all about giving drivers the experience based skills to confidently face winter driving conditions. Located in the Old West ski town of Steamboat Springs, Colorado, the Bridgestone Winter Driving School has been training drivers since 1983, and is the only school of its kind in the country. The good folks at Toyota, one of the major sponsors of the School, kindly provided the opportunity for me to attend the one-day course.
The School has a custom built driving facility consisting of three diabolically designed courses, each with a variety of terrain changes, off-camber corners, and steep hills. The tracks are laid out in open ranch land with plenty of wind driven snow, but just to keep things interesting, the School lays down over 200 gallons of water to be sure there is a nice layer of ice to contend with as well.
Following a brief video and instructional ground school in the heated yurt, it’s into the front-wheel-drive Camrys and all-wheel-drive 4-Runners to dynamically experience the sensations of oversteer and understeer that were illustrated on the chalk board. Via two way radios in the vehicles, our soft spoken instructor, Morgan, reminds us of the techniques to control slides and skids so that we stay mostly on course and out of the snow banks. We do braking exercises, both with and without Anti-Locking Brake assistance (ABS) to learn the limits of traction and how to minimize stopping distance.
Circling around portions of the track that include abrupt elevation changes and a variety of curves sensitize us to the subtleties of weight transfer and how that affects the handling dynamics of the vehicle in low grip conditions. We learn how to induce a little oversteer to improve control, how to convert dreaded understeer to controllable oversteer, and the importance of doing what at first seems against all reason, like accelerating when skidding, and not using the brakes when sliding. Finally, heaven forbid, they turn us lose to lap the entire course at ever greater speeds. Amazingly enough, we show remarkable car control, and all drivers and vehicles survive intact.
The important point, and the accomplished goal of the School, is that we experienced these winter driving situations in safe, relatively controlled conditions and gained confidence in our ability to cope with them in everyday driving. We also gained respect for the importance of a good winter tire. The Bridgestone Blizzak tires on the School’s cars performed amazing well in snow and ice. Learned skills and good equipment translates to greater confidence and safer driving.
Contact the Bridgestone Winter Driving School at www.winterdrive.com or 1-800-WHY-SKID . It is most certainly an investment and time well spent. Be warned, a lap or two around the course with Morgan will really open your eyes to incredible car control, and temp you to come back for the advanced school and learn how to master the Scandinavian Flick…
Roadtrip with your kid - scary but wonderful…
by Mike Cotsworth
The automobile plays a prominent part in many parent-child interactions: “Are we there yet ?”; “Can I borrow the car, please?”; “Until your grades improve, no car!” (the ultimate parental extortion…); “Really, I have no idea where that dent came from…”; etc., etc.
While many of these parent-child automotive scenarios may conjure up less than happy memories, let me add to the list one that can, in fact, be a uniquely wonderful experience. Roadtrip with your kid.
But wait – before all the parents reading this run shrieking from the room, let me add some important conditions. First, the child in the equation must be old enough. A father recently recounted to me the horrors of spending two hours in the car with his two sons, ages 14 and 16 (indeed a terrifying prospect…). No, late teens or early twenties are best – old enough for the kid to be a civilized and rational being, and old enough for you to remember the sort of things they are dealing with in life.
Second rule – just the two of you. No spouse, other siblings, or friends. The two of you must be trapped together in the limiting confines of the vehicle, and be forced to talk to one another.
Third rule, the trip must be long - too long for one to drive while the other sleeps – no, you gotta be conscious to have “quality time” together. Also, the drive should take you far away from familiar surroundings, cross-country to somewhere new. It’s best if at least part of the trip includes somewhere neither one of you have been before. Adventures (like getting lost...) are great bonding experiences.
It helps if the destination is somewhere significant (like college, a new job, or a new home) – something that creates a life change for one or both of you. Nothing stimulates serious talk like anticipation, or fear of the unknown.
Finally, there must be true equality – you share the driving, listen to each others music (gasp!), and talk about things “that really matter” to each of you. This is the real key to the magic of a parent-child road trip – the generational, age, and family-role differences become less pronounced as you share the intimate cocoon inside the automobile. You can become as close to equals as is ever likely to occur while your child is still young.
The talk isn’t always “heavy” – hey, you’re having fun here. Yet, out of discussions of favorite musical groups, boyfriend/girlfriend troubles, what it’s like at work or school, your wild youth (if you dare…), and secret ambitions or hidden fears comes a special closeness. You create a shared bond derived from your time together in that little world inside your automobile that you both will carry with you as your lives take their separate paths.
How do I know ? My 20 year old daughter and I shared a 33 hour, 1900 mile trip – and yea, it was special.
Copyright 2001 –Castleworth, Ltd. & C.M. Cotsworth . All rights reserved.
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