7th Dec 2009, 10:02

What you say is 100% true, of course, but let's not fall into the same category as brainwashed import owners. Yes, the Camry is not very reliable any more (and was NEVER as reliable as ads and biased magazines made it out to be), however, let's not wish for ANY company to fail. People being out of work is very bad. I don't wish that on anyone. I think people are waking up to the fact that current domestics far surpass Japanese cars in reliability and build quality. That's obvious if you look around. Toyota now holds the WORLD'S RECORD for the most recalls. Honda has been exposed for its bad transmissions.

It amazes me that import owners actually cheer for the destruction of U.S. jobs. I DON'T want to be in that category. I want everyone to have good jobs. By waking up to the myth of "superior" Japanese cars, Americans are turning things around. Even in bankruptcy, GM is outselling Toyota, and Ford can't order enough Fusions to fill the demand. Also, remember that 99% of import buyers know very little about economics and are duped into thinking that if Toyota and Honda build several dozen cars here, they are "helping our country". Not remotely true, of course, but people don't know any better.

As for the old Crown Vic, Delta 88's and Impala/Caprices you are also 100% correct. NO Japanese car EVER lasts as long as these vehicles do. You'll like this: I recently sold one of my newer cars and have decided to buy a very old car (pre-1985) as a second car because they are so easy to work on and cheap to fix due to less reliance on complicated electronics. I looked at ads for pre-1985 cars and found literally DOZENS of pre-1980 GM, Ford and Chrysler cars. There were ZERO Japanese cars listed... NONE. What does THAT tell you about how THEY last? I've pretty much narrowed my choices down to a 1973 Olds Delta 88 coupe (gorgeous car, all original, never an engine or transmission repair) or a 1973 Plymouth (likewise all original with never a major repair).

Keep up your support of American business, but go easy on the import guys. They honestly don't know any better. Three decades of brainwashing can create some strong myths.

7th Dec 2009, 13:18

You are so right about the MBZ 300D, I'd like to shake your hand!

I am a MBZ driver now and it all started when I bought a '83 Turbo Diesel. The car to this day has no rattles, no squeaks and will run with the best in the worst conditions. The reliability and steel quality is superior to anything Japan has ever made of any car, and the driving comfort and dynamics are extremely capable and relaxing.

Best thing though is the fuel economy, and now that I have learned to run it on a 70/30 mix of WVO and diesel fuel, it is truly fantastic!

Also, without question, the big body Grand Marquis' and Crown Vic's are the American working man, or rather the smart man's affordable limousine.