Thinking about buying one. Have to do something, so far this month we have already spent $312.46 on gas.
Impressions of the vehicle? How does it handle? Etc, etc, etc....
Going to drive one tonight after work but I always like hearing from people that actually own a vehicle.
Thanks!
Smug Alert!
quote:
Originally posted by guido911
Smug Alert!
I had a BM this morning that weighed 7.7 Courics.
I could be mistaken, but someone told me that the electric motor doesn't kick in for the first 15 minutes of driving, which pretty much takes away its benefits for me because I usually reach my destination within that time-frame driving around Tulsa.
If you're like me, then I'd recommend the base model Honda Civic or Toyota Corrolla. They both get really good mileage.
Oklahoma hybrid vehicle registration was up 143 percent in 2006.
quote:
Originally posted by wavoka
quote:
Originally posted by guido911
Smug Alert!
I had a BM this morning that weighed 7.7 Courics.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2007/10/12/couric-coined-the-unit-_n_68211.html
Sorry to hijack the thread...
Algore's son tried to set a land-speed record in one while he was stoned. What was it, about 100 MPH? Whoulda thought?
I really like this website for comparison of "greenness" of vehicles.
http://autos.yahoo.com/green_center/
The 2007 Toyoto Prius Touring model was tied with the 2007 Honda Civic Hybrid CVT AT-PZEV w/ Navigation System.
If you're not afraid to void your warranty, mod you prius into a PHEV which charges at home, can increase mpg drastically.
http://priuschat.com/index.php?showtopic=26951
First off, I don't drive a Prius.
However, I do drive a Honda Insight. Top speed is 113 mph. It would go faster, except that Honda has a governor in each model. I've done 90 mph in mine in the passing lane on I-44 in Missouri, and wasn't close to red-lining it.
To address Hawkins, the electric motor in Priuses DOES work within the first 15 minutes of driving. In fact, it works more early because the gas engine is still warming up. In low speeds, Prius electric motors do most of the work.
One of the coolest things about the newer Priuses, in my opinion, is that it keeps about a Thermos-sized batch of motor oil heated for 24 hours when the engine is shut off. That way, when the engine is turned on, it instantly has warm oil in the crankcase. That cuts down on engine wear dramatically.
quote:
Originally posted by sgrizzle
If you're not afraid to void your warranty, mod you prius into a PHEV which charges at home, can increase mpg drastically.
http://priuschat.com/index.php?showtopic=26951
A lot of old hot rodders are rolling over in their graves right now:
quote:
"First I needed to pick what type of conversion I wanted to go with. From what I understand now there are three main ways to convert you Prius. Please correct me if I am wrong about any of this stuff as I am learning too.
1. Prius Plus method
2. PiPrius method
3. Hydromotion method
The Prius Plus method uses a second pack to feed power into the hybrid system, and to retrieve regenerative power from the hybrid system during operation. The Prius Plus method uses a set number of batteries to obtain a voltage of 240 volts and uses a specific charger to charge a battery pack at that voltage. Usually the pack is 20, 12volt batteries.
quote:
Originally posted by wavoka
Thinking about buying one. Have to do something, so far this month we have already spent $312.46 on gas.
Impressions of the vehicle? How does it handle? Etc, etc, etc....
Going to drive one tonight after work but I always like hearing from people that actually own a vehicle.
Thanks!
My signifigant other used to have one. I drove it several times. It takes some getting used to - no engine noise when sitting and running. It doesn't have a normal gearshift set up, either. And in turns, even lower speed, the skinny little tires squeal. I guess his macho pride got to him, because he ditched it for an Acura about a year ago.
My folks have one and, as mentioned above, it takes a little getting used to.
No key. You simply push the power button.
No engine noise. You just start moving. The regular engine only kicks in when you need it.
Gas mileage that is unreal. But remember, it only has a 10 gallon tank.
You can never tell when the electric motor is running or the gas engine.
The gear shift lever is funky, but works fine. It's just different.
If I were to go hybrid (don't plan to), I would be looking at the Prius.
Wilbur, I guess that is something with Toyota now. Our bookkeeper drives a new Avalon, no keyed ignition on it either. Still not sure how all that works, I guess she's got some sort of fob-looking thingy she has to have on her before it will unlock and start.
Drove one tonight and loved it. Handled well, very comfortable and of course had that famous Toyota quality.
don't get one of those gawd awful eggs. wait for this:
http://www.tuningnews.net/article.php?date=070906d
My cousin bought a Prius. He says he'll never buy another car. He's had it for about 4 years now, and still loves it. Says he can't stand other cars now--they're too loud.
Does anyone know when Toyota is going to finally release the hybrid minivan?
As much as I support hybrid cars, I have to agree with guido that, at least in some cities, it has become a snob thing. There was a story not long ago on NPR that Honda was thinking of canceling its hybrid Civic. Apparently, it is not selling so well, because the people buying hybrids want to make sure that everyone knows that they are driving a hybrid. Everyone knows a Prius is a hybrid--can't be sure with a Civic. I suppose its a good thing when someone's environomental stewardship becomes a status symbol.
The parking spaces next to the handicap spots should be reserved for zero emission and low emission vehicles to encourage the use of these vehicles. Ticket violators who park in these spaces illegally. Considering the lengths people will go to in order to get a good parking spot, I think you'd see registrations of these types of vehicles increase at exponential rates comparable to Google stock.
I think we've decided to buy the Prius we drove last night. Now if the fun part...dealing with the salesmen.
I have to say it is going to be quite the contrast parked in the garage next to my Sequoia.
quote:
Originally posted by Double A
The parking spaces next to the handicap spots should be reserved for zero emission and low emission vehicles to encourage the use of these vehicles. Ticket violators who park in these spaces illegally. Considering the lengths people will go to in order to get a good parking spot, I think you'd see registrations of these types of vehicles increase at exponential rates comparable to Google stock.
[:D]Even a blind hog occasionally finds a walnut. I would support that concept but expand it to include separate large SUV parking only available at the fringes of the parking lot where the light is dim. These new "G" class (gas glutton)SUV's... Escapades, Yukons, Excaliburs are an atrocity. Impossible to negotiate in hospital parking lots, hazards to traffic and symbols of indulgent status seeking.
quote:
Originally posted by waterboy
quote:
Originally posted by Double A
The parking spaces next to the handicap spots should be reserved for zero emission and low emission vehicles to encourage the use of these vehicles. Ticket violators who park in these spaces illegally. Considering the lengths people will go to in order to get a good parking spot, I think you'd see registrations of these types of vehicles increase at exponential rates comparable to Google stock.
[:D]Even a blind hog occasionally finds a walnut. I would support that concept but expand it to include separate large SUV parking only available at the fringes of the parking lot where the light is dim. These new "G" class (gas glutton)SUV's... Escapades, Yukons, Excaliburs are an atrocity. Impossible to negotiate in hospital parking lots, hazards to traffic and symbols of indulgent status seeking.
It's Excursion, not Excalibur.
Although, I'd be all over a car called "Excalibur" and giggling profusely when someone crashes one into a boulder.
quote:
Originally posted by waterboy
quote:
Originally posted by Double A
The parking spaces next to the handicap spots should be reserved for zero emission and low emission vehicles to encourage the use of these vehicles. Ticket violators who park in these spaces illegally. Considering the lengths people will go to in order to get a good parking spot, I think you'd see registrations of these types of vehicles increase at exponential rates comparable to Google stock.
[:D]Even a blind hog occasionally finds a walnut. I would support that concept but expand it to include separate large SUV parking only available at the fringes of the parking lot where the light is dim. These new "G" class (gas glutton)SUV's... Escapades, Yukons, Excaliburs are an atrocity. Impossible to negotiate in hospital parking lots, hazards to traffic and symbols of indulgent status seeking.
Nice of you to lump them all together.
Personally my SUV serves a purpose. It pulls our travel trailer and transports my family in comfort while doing so.
But then I suppose in your mind I should also be punished for having a luxury such as the travel trailer.
quote:
Originally posted by wavoka
Nice of you to lump them all together.
Personally my SUV serves a purpose. It pulls our travel trailer and transports my family in comfort while doing so.
But then I suppose in your mind I should also be punished for having a luxury such as the travel trailer.
Sinner
Yeah well, my sailboat trumps all y'all. [;)] I only burn about 4 gallons of fuel a year through my auxilliary. Just a shame I can't drive the damn thing to work...
I think it's OK to have an SUV for utility purposes, like pulling a boat or a camper.
I have an old pickup truck that I use a couple times a month for picking up big cargo.
But I would NEVER use an SUV or my pickup truck as a daily driver. Talk about a waste of fuel ...
quote:
Originally posted by rwarn17588
I think it's OK to have an SUV for utility purposes, like pulling a boat or a camper.
I have an old pickup truck that I use a couple times a month for picking up big cargo.
But I would NEVER use an SUV or my pickup truck as a daily driver. Talk about a waste of fuel ...
Your response is right on. No excuse for seeing these abominations travelling along Memorial at 91st inhabited with one small woman gabbing on her cell and slowing up or pushing everyone else around. Or parking on the streets around school yards creating gridlock. These are road machines meant to pull big loads or travel on highways.
quote:
Originally posted by wavoka
quote:
Originally posted by waterboy
quote:
Originally posted by Double A
The parking spaces next to the handicap spots should be reserved for zero emission and low emission vehicles to encourage the use of these vehicles. Ticket violators who park in these spaces illegally. Considering the lengths people will go to in order to get a good parking spot, I think you'd see registrations of these types of vehicles increase at exponential rates comparable to Google stock.
[:D]Even a blind hog occasionally finds a walnut. I would support that concept but expand it to include separate large SUV parking only available at the fringes of the parking lot where the light is dim. These new "G" class (gas glutton)SUV's... Escapades, Yukons, Excaliburs are an atrocity. Impossible to negotiate in hospital parking lots, hazards to traffic and symbols of indulgent status seeking.
Nice of you to lump them all together.
Personally my SUV serves a purpose. It pulls our travel trailer and transports my family in comfort while doing so.
But then I suppose in your mind I should also be punished for having a luxury such as the travel trailer.
Lumping things of similar size, shape and mileage is a common practice. And don't bother to read my mind. You wouldn't find any reference to you or your luxury travel trailer at all in long term memory.
quote:
Originally posted by rwarn17588
I think it's OK to have an SUV for utility purposes, like pulling a boat or a camper.
I have an old pickup truck that I use a couple times a month for picking up big cargo.
But I would NEVER use an SUV or my pickup truck as a daily driver. Talk about a waste of fuel ...
Go ahead Rwarn and post another photo of Gretchen, she's a sexy beast. Everyone ought to have one!
Lest anyone think I am a smug elitist, they should know I also have a truck. A brutally lovely 1968 Dodge 3/4 ton Camper Special with big block 318, low geared Muncie 4speed and capable of nearly 10mpg with the wind. Ruby. She'll pull the wheels off that ford truck that pulls the giant yacht on tv commercials. I only drive it on very special occassions when gas is plentiful.
I am from Oklahoma ya' know.
quote:
Originally posted by wavoka
Thinking about buying one. Have to do something, so far this month we have already spent $312.46 on gas.
Impressions of the vehicle? How does it handle? Etc, etc, etc....
Going to drive one tonight after work but I always like hearing from people that actually own a vehicle.
Thanks!
Here's what I would like to get...
http://www.jetcar.de/english/
About 95% of the cars on the road commutting have 1 person in them. Why now a one person commutter car. Makes sense to me.
quote:
A brutally lovely 1968 Dodge 3/4 ton Camper Special with big block 318,
I haven't seen a big block 318 yet. I've had 2 318's and they were both small blocks.
quote:
Originally posted by Wingnut
Here's what I would like to get...
http://www.jetcar.de/english/
About 95% of the cars on the road commutting have 1 person in them. Why now a one person commutter car. Makes sense to me.
quote:
A brutally lovely 1968 Dodge 3/4 ton Camper Special with big block 318,
I haven't seen a big block 318 yet. I've had 2 318's and they were both small blocks.
I thought it was a 383. But the metal tag clearly identifies it as a 318 (perhaps a destroked 383?) and it is clearly a wide spread big block. Lots of torque and a 4:10 rear end. It was probably a Camper Special setup. Grizz, aren't you a Mopar guy?
It's been close to 25 years since I've really done anything around a MOPAR. I thought they had a big block 318 which was considered an "industrial" engine which also had double purpose in marine applications.
However, Googling it, I'm getting nothing.
quote:
Originally posted by waterboy
quote:
Originally posted by Wingnut
Here's what I would like to get...
http://www.jetcar.de/english/
About 95% of the cars on the road commutting have 1 person in them. Why now a one person commutter car. Makes sense to me.
quote:
A brutally lovely 1968 Dodge 3/4 ton Camper Special with big block 318,
I haven't seen a big block 318 yet. I've had 2 318's and they were both small blocks.
I thought it was a 383. But the metal tag clearly identifies it as a 318 (perhaps a destroked 383?) and it is clearly a wide spread big block. Lots of torque and a 4:10 rear end. It was probably a Camper Special setup. Grizz, aren't you a Mopar guy?
The 318 in that truck is a wedge engine that is the basis for the engine used in the Dodge Viper.
It may look large, but it is categorically a small block.
quote:
Originally posted by sgrizzle
quote:
Originally posted by waterboy
quote:
Originally posted by Wingnut
Here's what I would like to get...
http://www.jetcar.de/english/
About 95% of the cars on the road commutting have 1 person in them. Why now a one person commutter car. Makes sense to me.
quote:
A brutally lovely 1968 Dodge 3/4 ton Camper Special with big block 318,
I haven't seen a big block 318 yet. I've had 2 318's and they were both small blocks.
I thought it was a 383. But the metal tag clearly identifies it as a 318 (perhaps a destroked 383?) and it is clearly a wide spread big block. Lots of torque and a 4:10 rear end. It was probably a Camper Special setup. Grizz, aren't you a Mopar guy?
The 318 in that truck is a wedge engine that is the basis for the engine used in the Dodge Viper.
It may look large, but it is categorically a small block.
Cool. One more talking point for my ugly old Dodge! Does wedge describe the wide spread of the block?
edit: a Mopar site refers to this motor as a 318 "wide block".
I luvs me some MOPAR. I drive a Dodge truck, BTW. Gotta have a work truck in my line of work.
quote:
Does wedge describe the wide spread of the block?
Wedge usually is used to describe the shape of the combustion chamber. On wedge engines, the chamber is real small on one side, opening into the shape of a wedge. On the compression stroke, the chamber shape causes quite a swirling motion of the air/fuel mixture which tends to create more power.
A hemi head works pretty much the same way. While I haven't checked out the new hemi's, I've heard it's not a true hemi shaped chamber, they just like to call it that as it sells cars.
I fixing to buy me a Dodge truck this week!
The engine in my 1966 GMC, "Gretchen," is a rebuilt 327 engine.
Let's just say it merges very well in traffic. But I wouldn't want to drive it every day because it'd put me in the poorhouse.
quote:
Originally posted by Wingnut
quote:
Does wedge describe the wide spread of the block?
Wedge usually is used to describe the shape of the combustion chamber. On wedge engines, the chamber is real small on one side, opening into the shape of a wedge. On the compression stroke, the chamber shape causes quite a swirling motion of the air/fuel mixture which tends to create more power.
A hemi head works pretty much the same way. While I haven't checked out the new hemi's, I've heard it's not a true hemi shaped chamber, they just like to call it that as it sells cars.
I fixing to buy me a Dodge truck this week!
Hemi is short for "hemispherical" somewhat different shape than a wedge, but same general performance philosophy. Many other companies have copied the design over the years.
Want to see a really cool combustion chamber design for high compression? Check out the old Offenhauser 4-cyl. design.
quote:
Originally posted by Hawkins
I could be mistaken, but someone told me that the electric motor doesn't kick in for the first 15 minutes of driving, which pretty much takes away its benefits for me because I usually reach my destination within that time-frame driving around Tulsa.
If you're like me, then I'd recommend the base model Honda Civic or Toyota Corrolla. They both get really good mileage.
Somebody told you wrong. they run electric until around 45MPH, then the gas engine kicks on.
I like civics and corollas also, but they don't get 50 MPG.