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Unread 03-07-2004, 14:50
sanddrag sanddrag is offline
On to my 16th year in FRC
FRC #0696 (Circuit Breakers)
Team Role: Teacher
 
Join Date: Jul 2002
Rookie Year: 2002
Location: Glendale, CA
Posts: 8,519
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Re: Help Billfred Find a Ride!

This is probably the hardest thing I've ever done (because personally I hate these cars) but I'd suggest looking into a Hyundai or Kia. If all you care about is getting around, it may serve your purpose well - and cheaply too.

EDIT: I thought of another one. I know it's not 1990 or newer and I know it's not automatic but how about a classic VW Beetle? They are really awesome cars and really easy and fun to drive. If you find one in good shape, they are super reliable too. (no cooling system problems). My dad got a '65 and I right away picked up on how to drive it on my first try; I only stalled it once while reversing. I'm 6'1" and I fit in it just fine. Plenty of head room and the only problem whatsoever with legroom is when you are in 2nd gear and foot on the break, then my knee hits the giant steering wheel. You could get a smaller wheel though (or different years might have smaller wheels).

They get great gas mileage even though they are old. And they're cheap to buy too: Even really nice one's can be had for under $4,000. And because it's carburated and air cooled, if it does break, it is really cheap and easy to fix.

The only downside to any manual is if you are in traffic AND on a hill. Either one by itself is not too bad really. The upside of a manual that I enjoy is that it keeps you really alert and focused while yoru driving, because it is difficult to be distracted by a phone or food or something like that. Last, it opens up a whle new part of your brain. Controlling three pedals with two feet and a wheel and stick with your two hands really builds up coordination skills.
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Teacher/Engineer/Machinist - Team 696 Circuit Breakers, 2011 - Present
Mentor/Engineer/Machinist, Team 968 RAWC, 2007-2010
Technical Mentor, Team 696 Circuit Breakers, 2005-2007
Student Mechanical Leader and Driver, Team 696 Circuit Breakers, 2002-2004

Last edited by sanddrag : 03-07-2004 at 15:09.
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