You gen2 guys read Oct 05's Motor Trend?

[zoomzoomthis05]

The big deal about convertibles is that it allows you to be a part of what you're passing through, not just an observer. You can smell the trees as you climb higher in the hills, you can feel the temperature change as you drive into a wooded area, you get warmer as the sun comes out from behind the clouds. There's something difficult to quantify about putting down the top and following an old state route that becomes main street for dozens of small towns.

In terms of hardtops, the ones I've seen consume large amounts of trunk space when the top is stored. Also, they tend to be markedly more expensive than their soft-topped brethren. Frankly, I'd rather retire earlier.

I understand the want to be a part if what you are driving through... that is why I have always had a motorcycle.. but when I am driving my car I was to drive... my mother has a convertable.. actually two... yeah its nice if you live somewhere that has perfect weather.. but it sucks in the cold.. it sucks in the rain..it sucks when you are driving and it starts to rain.. it sucks in the snow...plus there is wind noise...

I will stick with my hard top and enjoy driving and when I want ot feel my surroundings I will take my bike out...

[zoomzoomthis05]

Sorry sweet cheeks, my mistake.

OK A$$HOLE... enough with the comments.. I was just commenting on something you wrote.. now you are pushing the wrong buttons!!!

If I wanted a lude comment I would have asked for one.. I will ask you nicely to refrain from any more of your "cute" comments.....


Sorry you feel you had to settle.. I happen to find my car very exciting but the I actually know how to drive my car... instead of "feeling" whats going on around me..

but then again not everyone enjoys driving their cars in the same respect.. some people are causel cruisers and some are all about the road.. its all up to what you feel and what type of roads you have access to..

[SPF 0]

yeah its nice if you live somewhere that has perfect weather.. but [a convertible] sucks in the cold.. it sucks in the rain..it sucks when you are driving and it starts to rain.. it sucks in the snow...plus there is wind noise...

Umm. . .please tell your mom in a very gentle, non-confrontational manner that the roof does (or should) go up. She should find that many of the issues she's having with her convertibles to now be resolved.

understand the want to be a part if what you are driving through. . .that is why I have always had a motorcycle

I have a bike as well. But there are certainly times in which having storage, chilled soft drinks, heated seats, music, back support <i>and</i> being able to wear street clothes without sacrificing your safety is a nice touch.

Both have their place. The car for when you want to be coddled on the road; the motorcycle when you'd like to have a dance partner.

[philosophicaljt]

I just found the article, and wanted to comment. I know...old thread. Very old. But the car is new to me, so its still relavant (relavent?)

http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/coupe/112_0406_2004_toyota_solara_convertible_sle_v6

I think they are mostly correct. However, MY priorites are so:

Safety
Reliability
Weight (for safety)
Comfort (and heated leather seats with tilt/telescoping wheel is great)
Coupe (I hate driving people around, creates disctractions)
Gas Mileage
Drivability
Power (equates to safety)
Style

Not to give a life story but:
My first car was a 1988 Mercury Sable. No airbags. I hit a basketball pole hard enough that airbags would have deployed. I luckily was not injured, but it scared me SAFE.

After that was a 2001 honda accord coupe. No side air bags. I got rear ended making a turn, and almost lost my arm. The drivers side of my car hit a telephone pole. I had my arm out the window at the time. The inner door dented, but the frontal airbags didnt even deploy. (We began a lawsuit, never finished (ran out of money)). Scared me SAFER!

Next car was a 2001 Honda Prelude with side airbags. Motor blew up. Got the next car.

2004 Toyota Solara with side air bags.

This is the safest car I could find, that had great reliability and side airbags. www.crashtest.com for more info or go to iihs.org.

So to me, their opinion only furthers my point. It is a big heavy car, that does not encourage reckless driving habits. (I'm only 22 and a male, I have a heavy foot by instinct/genetics).

Quoting them:

"The ride is compliant, and the four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes inspire confidence. Acceleration from the standard 225-horse, 3.3-liter V-6 and five-speed automatic transmission is more than ample."

"The Solara isn't as stiff as its European competitors, but it is steady. And in a market that rewards build quality, reliability, and smooth, quiet operation, the Solara* goes down easy."

I love this car.

[Biggi_e]

wow you've had a rough past with your cars. hope this solara treats you as well as mne does.

[PXLpainter]

Holy Thread Revival Batman!!

Wasn't this one dead like nearly two years ago Rip Van Winkle!!