Listees,

I am in agreement with those who think the new microbus is too cute,
lacks utilitarianism and is way overpriced. My question is what's new
about VW's (and most other cars) being pricey? In 1978 my mother
bought a new Type2 full westy for around $8000 US. I bought it from
her in about 1988. I remember camping next to a Vanagon westy that in
retrospect was around an '85 or '86. Talking to the proud owner he
claimed to have paid $26,000 for it. That's about a 300% increase. I
realized then I would never own such a vehicle.

I drove the '78 until two years ago when a blind teenager caved in the
driver's side with his high rise pickup. I happened to know someone
who wholesaled cars and he mentioned he had an incredibly well
maintained '89 Westy with only 42K miles. Price $9500. Bought it
immediately and it's still like new. In '89 it would have been as
unaffordable to me as the new bus is now

As a single income teacher I am no doubt near the bottom of the
economic ladder among listees. That means that there are few cars I
can afford to purchase new. Karl mentioned the Yugo. I liked the
concept, but considered it a piece of crap. I did buy a 94 GEO Metro
(aka Suzuki) new. Everyone talked about my disposable car. It's turned
out to be the most practical commuter I've ever owned. NO repairs have
been necessary other than routine maintenance for the 70k miles I've
driven it. And, my self-concept is in no way related to what I drive.

People, at least in the U.S., want things they can't afford. Bigger
and faster is always better, hence, the popularity of the lease. For
me it's on the same level as rent to own furniture, payday loans, etc.

Most disturbing is the sense that few are concerned with global
warming, rapid depletion of non-renewable resources, and the earth's
ability to sustain life during the third millenium.

It's late and this post is only moderately coherent. I'm going to send
it anyway.

BTW, my GEO is the same color as my neighbor's Audi TT. Does that make
me cool too?

Fred