1994-2002 [Subscribe to Daily Digest] |
I like test driving every now and again, even thought I have no intention of buying the car. I don't take it out for hours, just a few miles. I've heard the same line, and the best way I find to get the drive is to appear to be a very serious customer who is ready to buy. How do I do that? I dress nicely (no torn jeans and old concert t-shirt, khakis and a decent shirt do it), I drive my Saab, and (probably most importantly) I bring my wife. I think dealers see a couple and they know they're ready to do it. They've discussed, they know the finances, etc... I'm just like any other mid 20's guy who wants to kick the tires, so I have to appear serious. I got treated poorly when I drove to a Volvo dealer in my old Neon. I think the Saab helps me...
My worst experience has been trying to drive a VW. When the New Bug came out they demanded you be ready to buy that day at thousands over MSRP, then you can drive. I said no. Two years later I had a hell of a time at 2 different dealers. I still have yet to drive any of the VW's, and frankly the dealers irritate me so much I don't want to bother with them. The Passat is a possible option for a new car for my wife, but I don't even want to try it. They have to learn a bit about customer relations, IMHO.
I've had a little trouble driving a new Toyota MR-2. After telling the guy I just tested a Miata and I'm trying to make a decision he reluctantly talked to his boss. The boss simply said, "He won't buy it if he can't drive it." I got permission to go 4 miles. Wow, how generous. It was a total blast, though. Handles great, HP to weight ratio seemed pretty good, and the Tach guage is the one n the middle. Classy.
The WRX was easy to get, but the car was a huge disappointment with its turbo lag. I guess I should have revved it to redline to crank up the fun factor, but who drives like that every day? I treated it like my 9-3 in terms of shift points, and the 9-3 is so much more pleasurable in every day city traffic. I didn't get the WRX on the highway (or the track or offroad rally course!) Based on my experience, it looks like a cheap Japanese car with great performace specs on paper, but it's not the greatest thing ever. I think the car reviewers write it up without driving it the same way record reviewers write about albums after skimming the CD once in the car. Put it to real every day use and see how it works.
I have to give it to Saab. They're on to something with "People who test drive a Saab usually buy a Saab". My dealer was very nice, showed us the features, discussed our concerns, then we drove. No problem. About 10 seconds out of the driveway and my wife was sold. Then I drove and agreed. The car will sell itself.
Randy
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