Date: Mon, 01 May 2006 10:38:38 GMT From: Johannes <johsnospam-spam-sizefitter.com> Subject: Re: saab 9000 best model year / best configuration ?
Walt Kienzle wrote: > > "Johannes" <johsnospam-spam-sizefitter.com> wrote in message [...] > > My apologies, I was unclear. My statement was to the fact that when cars > are shipped long distances, they don't ship many variations of the same > model. Is the Matiz you mentioned available with 4 or 5 different engine > types, or is it available with just one or two? I meant to say that the > 9000 has typically been available in the US with no more than 2 engine > options at a time (maybe 3 if you consider the LPT to be a different engine > than the FPT; I consider it basically the same engine, minus APC, etc.). We > never had the option to select a 2.0 turbo and a 2.3 turbo in the same model > year. When the V6 showed up, the 2.3L NA engine was gone. Additionally, > the engine choice was determined by the trim level; one engine type per trim > level. I understand that diesel was also available in Europe. We never had > that option even though Volkswagen does a noticeable diesel business here > with their one diesel engine offering. We can have this car from South Korea in many trim and engine variations, the Matiz comes in at least 4 variations, and 2 other Korean Chevy models come in 5 variations. Together with a people carrier, that makes 16 different models from this manufacturer alone. But what typical happens is that the customer selects the car and options before it leaves South Korea. Then a batch of cars are shipped over, but it can take maybe up to 12 weeks for delivery. [...] > > Your comment about US drivers wanting large cars with big lazy engines is a > stereotype that started to go obsolete about 30 years ago at the peak of the > big car era. Last time I was in US was oh.. 6 years ago. I did notice a predominance of large cars on the street. There are also distinct advantages; a lazy 5.0L V8 probably lasts a lifetime and you can endure driving very long trips without getting flummoxed in the head. But the fuel consumption is really the killer in this country. While you're getting smaller cars, our cars are getting fatter year by year. New models always grow, and former middle range cars are now really on the lardy side. Cars like BMW X5 and Volvo XC90 are getting popular. However, fuel consumption is kept in check by using efficient engines and a growing proportion of diesel cars.
