Can't fit
[from a friend over 6’ 4”, plus other comments]
Date: Mon, 26 Apr 2004 07:10:01
Subj: Re: FYI: I've posted some pages about my Prius
A question...what provides heat in the "cabin" in the winter? I would expect electric heat would be wasteful. Does the gas engine start in cold weather ONLY to provide heat for passengers? If so, MPG ought to improve greatly in warm weather.
No tenths digit on your odometer? What car today includes tenths on the total miles travelled odometer? I know of none. I don't think it's important, especially when I recall you wrote you have TWO trip odometers.
A dirty window? My van back window gets so dirty in the winter I can't see through it!
As for the touch screen, I agree. I think even the Japanese fall for gimmicks and go overboard. KISS is best.
I LOVE the idea of a hybrid car, but probably won't get one. The reason is unique. I doubt I fit in either the Prius or the Civic. I read last week that 95% of Americans are 5'11" or shorter, and that cars are built for 5' 11" and shorter. Can you believe there are some cars I can't get into? It's not just uncomfortable, it's a matter of not being able to get in the car! BMWs, Volvos, Civics, the new Chevy Malibu Maxx, and a lot more. This has been the case for years. Back in the 60s a friend had a Chevy Impala. My head pressed against the roof! A Bel Air was not as sleek, and I fit that OK.
So what do you think?!!! My choice of car is not made on a basis of color, engine power, design, economy, etc. It's whether or not I can get into the vehicle. Son of a bitch! You complain about tenths of miles, dirty windows, only 45 MPG, a too complicated touch screen. How about trying a real complaint such as NOT being able to get into the damn car!
Is/was the tax cut available to you? Politics. Politicians. I hate 'em all. How can politicians enact a law that allows a buyer a 100% one year depreciation of a gas guzzler and not give an equivalent break to the over of an environmentally friendly car ?
