Would you ever buy an import?

[Brett]

It should be intersting to see what a large Corvette community feels about this.

[warren s]

YES. The build quality on the average rice burner is far and above that of my 2000 Pontiac Bonneville. I would love to buy American, but I need a more reliable ride.

Thinking Camry

[reegeemon]

drive a tundra, wife drives an acura,

both reliable and totally hassle free, only scheduled maint needs to be done.

no surprises, no hassles, past experience is that if some maint has to be done ALWAYS works as is in the repair manual.

hotrods/toys are fine, but not as daily drivers.

[Ken]

I think you'll have to be a little more specific Brett, when using the term "import" anymore, seeing as how Toyotas and others are being manufactured here in the USA now.

Toyota is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Toyota Motor Corporation, a Japanese corporation. Toyota markets Toyota and Lexus brand vehicles in forty-nine states.

Over one-half of the Toyota brand vehicles sold in the United States in 1995 were built here, by either Toyota Motor Manufacturing, U.S.A., Inc. in Georgetown, Kentucky, or New United Motor Manufacturing, Inc. ("NUMMI") in Fremont, California. NUMMI is a joint venture between Toyota Motor Corporation and General Motors Corporation. NUMMI builds Toyota Corollas and Tacomas and Geo Prizms. NUMMI is but one of many examples of the alliances between "foreign" and "domestic" automotive companies.

Look at a lot of the parts on the Corvette, many of 'em ain't made in the good ol' USA. :hb

So, what defines an import nowadays? ;shrug

[Chas]

My daughters Plymouth Laser has a Mitsubishi engine and trans in it....

American or Import?

Honda's made in Ohio

[Brett]

So, what defines an import nowadays? ;shrug
That is exactly what this thread is for discussing.:D

I think you'll have to be a little more specific Brett, when using the term "import" anymore, seeing as how Toyotas and others are being manufactured here in the USA now.
Well, I have read that even though they are manufactured in the US, the US economy still suffers from it in the long run, as all the money goes straight back to Japan. Unfortunately, I can't recall where I read this. Hopefully someone else has some answers, links?

[Dad]

Buy imports if you want, there is little reason to build a strong economy to support the younger generation when and if they can retire. :eyerole

[Ken]

Brett, I don't know if it will contain the answer you seek, but here are some items I culled from a report that was first issued in April of 2003, entitled: The Road Ahead for the US Auto Industry (http://www.ita.doc.gov/td/auto/2003roadahead.pdf). There are forty-eight pages of information, including the requisite bar charts and line graphs for those who prefer those type of things. ;)

Domestic Market

The U.S. market for cars and light trucks fell to 16.9 million units in 2002 – off 1.5%.
While sales volume declined, consumer expenditures for new vehicles increased 6% to reach a record level of $241 billion. Business expenditures fell 5% to $135 billion.
The 2003 market probably will contract further, slipping by 3% to 16.4 million vehicles.
Market shares for the Big 3 (GM, Ford, and the Chrysler unit of DaimlerChrysler) have fallen to a new low, 61.3% of the 2002 market. Their volume dropped 4%.
Market shares for the Japanese brands reached a new high, 27.9%. Volume increased 3%.
German brands sales volume was up 4%. Market share reached a new high, 5.4%.
Sale volume of Korean brands increased 5%. Market share reached a new high, 3.9%.
Some industry analysts predict a 50% market share for the Big 3 within 5 years.
Production

U.S. production of light vehicles recovered somewhat in 2002, growing 7% to 12 million units, after having skidded 10% in 2001. 1999 was record high, 12.6 million units.
Big 3 production increased 8% to 9.2 million units.
U.S. production by Japanese affiliates increased 7% to 2.6 million vehicles.
U.S. production by the German affiliates was up 5% to 209,000 units.
Some analysts expect Big 3 production to contract in 2003, their volume replaced by that of the local Japanese and German affiliates, and by imports.
U.S. manufacturing capacity for the Big 3 is shrinking, even as they add new plants.
Capacity of the Japanese affiliates could increase by 26% between 2002 and 2004.

Employment
Domestic employment in the auto industry continues to decline, falling to an average of 331,100 individuals in 2002, a drop of 3% for the year.
Auto manufacturing remains one of the economy’s best paying industries. Production workers’ average hourly earnings reached $25.31 in 2002, up 5%. Earnings were 65% greater than the national average for all manufacturing industries.
The Big 3 will begin separate negotiations this summer with the UAW to negotiate the next 4-year labor contract. Job preservation, pension expenses, and health care costs are expected to top the agenda.

International Trade
The light vehicle trade deficit fell 1% in 2001; grew 4% in 2002 to a record $103.4 billion.
Imports increased 6% in 2002 to a total of $127.4 billion.
Export growth was outstanding, jumping 15% to $24.2 billion.
Inbound shipments from Canada remained the largest, up 1% to $38.5 billion.
Imports from Mexico fell over 4%, dropping to $19.7 billion.
Of the 5 major suppliers, imports from Germany grew fastest, up19% to $17.7 billion.
Japan increased shipments to the United States by 13%, reaching $34.9 billion.
Most U.S. exports went to Canada, which increased 20% to $13.7 billion.
Exports to Japan fell 22%, dropping to $407 million.
Shipments to Mexico were unchanged at $3.6 billion.
Exports to Korea jumped nearly 180%, but still amounted to just $87 million.
Trend analysis suggests the global light vehicle deficit will continue to grow in 2003, hitting $114 billion – an increase of 10%.
There is no reason to expect that the light vehicle trade deficit will decline in the near term.
General Motors Corporation and Ford Motor Company are the only remaining U.S.-owned automakers. Chrysler Motor Company and Daimler-Benz surprised the automotive community in 1998, crafting a $90 billion transaction that was at the time the largest acquisition-merger ever undertaken in the industrial world. Chrysler, ranked seventh worldwide on the basis of production volume in 1997, and Daimler’s Mercedes Benz unit, ranked fifteenth, created DaimlerChrysler AG (DCX), a German-registered corporation that became the world’s fifth largest assembler.

GM and Ford are not only the biggest two motor vehicle manufacturers in the United States, but also worldwide. In 2002, the world’s ‘Big 2’ sold 4.8 million and 3.4 million vehicles, respectively, in the United States. Each company also sold an additional 3.6 million vehicles abroad. Overall, GM posted a 3.8% global sales increase over 2001, while Ford recorded a decline of 0.2%. Both have been losing market share at home and globally for several years. GM – which at one time commanded more than 50% of the U.S. market – had fallen to 28.1% of the market in 2000. It managed to squeeze out a small gain in 2002, reaching 28.3% – up two-tenths of a point for the year. Each tenth of a point is significant in this industry, as each tiny fraction represents some $375 million of retail sales to consumers and business customers.

Ford’s 2002 share of the U.S. market was 19.9%, down 1.8 points from the year before. The company recorded its last peak share of the market in 1995 – 25.9%. GM’s revenues from automotive operations jumped 5.4% in 2002 to a total of $159.7 billion, while Ford increased its revenues by 2.2% to $134.4 billion. GM missed generating positive income from its global automotive operations, losing $146 million. Nonetheless, this was a significant improvement from 2001's loss of nearly $1.2 billion. Ford performed substantially better as well, reducing its losses from $6.3 billion in 2001 to $531 million.


Manufacturers routinely can turn profits of more than $10,000 on light trucks, while just as routinely earn just $1,000 – or less – on small cars, which easily explains the constant rush to market of new truck models from both experienced and neophyte firms with little previous experience with these vehicles, and often none at all, outside of the United States. This trend has significant implications for the American Big 3 brands, as they have derived an ever increasing share of their sales and profits from the light truck sector. In 1986, the Big 3 sold 3.7 million light trucks. That volume represented 79% of the entire light truck market, but just 31% of their total sales. Their share of the sector climbed to 86% in 1996 on sales of 5.6 million units – 51% of their total volume. In 2002, Big 3 dependence on the sector was even greater. Nearly 64% of their volume – 6.6 million units – came from light trucks, but their market share fell to 76%.

Within the truck sector, Big 3 shares have slipped in most segments. In 1995, American brands accounted for 86% of the pickup segment, 92% of the van segment, and 80% of all SUV sales. In 2002, they supplied more of the pickup segment, 88%, but less of the van segment, 77%, and slightly less of the SUV segment,79%. The latter was subdivided in 2000 to create a new category, Cross Utility Vehicles (CUV), which are, perhaps, best thought of as station wagons with (somewhat limited) off road capabilities, but exhibiting styling cues adopted and adapted from the traditional SUV category. The American brands supplied 36% of this category in 2002, compared with 75% in its debut year. Had the category not existed, the American share of the original SUV category would have been 66%.

American brands also have been losing both sales volume and market share in the passenger car segments. They supplied 72% of the passenger car market in 1986 on a volume of 8.2 million units. Volume and share have fallen nearly every year since, dropping to a 46% share in 2002 on a volume of 3.7 million cars. The Big 3 have lost share in each of the passenger car segments, save one. American brands accounted for 69% of all small cars in 1986, but just 38% in 2002. Their share of mid-sized cars has slipped from 70% to 50%, while their luxury car share has fallen from 58% to 30%. The only bright spot for the American brands has been the fourth category – large passenger cars – where they retained 100% dominance. Unfortunately, large car sales declined across the period, falling by 63% to 476,500 units.

The net effect of declining shares for the American brands in light trucks (even though their volume has increased), combined with declining shares (and declining volume) in the passenger car segments, not surprisingly, is a decline in the Big 3's overall share of the U.S. market. In 1965 their share exceeded 95%. In 1986, their position was 73.6%. In 2002, they accounted for just 61.3% of the overall market – the lowest overall share on record for the American Big 3. Their sales in 2002 fell 4% for the year to 10.3 million units, after having declined in both of the previous years by a total of 6%. Many industry analysts expect that the Big 3 share could slip below 50% within five years. They note the heavy schedule of new models that are being introduced by their competitors, not just in the passenger car segments, but especially in light trucks, and observe that this proliferation of new offerings probably won’t be matched by the Big 3 for another year or more. They also note that even though the initial
product quality of Big 3 vehicles is approaching parity with that of the Japanese brands, the market seems unaware of this fact. Moreover, long-term reliability is not yet on the same level.

The Japanese brands’ share (including both imports from abroad plus units produced within NAFTA) of the U.S. market rose by 1.1 points to 26.7% in 2001, on a volume that had increased 3% to almost 4.6 million units. (1986 share: 20.6%.) In 2002, their sales reached 4.7 million vehicles, 27.9% of the total market. Japanese light truck volume increased only slightly in 2002, rising 0.6% to 1.8 million units. This increased their share by just one-tenth of a point to 20.3%, but continued a string of increases that began in 1996. In 1986, at the height of import penetration, Japanese brands held a 20.9% share of the light truck market.

Japanese shares of the passenger car segments also have increased. In 1986 their overall share was 20.5%. It has risen in almost every year since, growing 2.5 points in 2002 to 36%. Both Honda and Toyota outsold Chrysler in the U.S. passenger car market for the first time in 1997, supplying 10% and 9.9% of sales, respectively, compared with 8.9% for Chrysler. In 2002, Toyota ranked third overall with a 12.8% share, behind Ford’s 14.4% share. Honda’s 10.3% share was fourth highest. Chrysler was fifth with a 6.5% share, just ahead of Nissan. In light trucks, both Japanese firms still were far behind in 2002, but advancing quickly. Toyota’s share was 8.8% and Honda’s was 4.7%. Chrysler easily remained the market’s third largest supplier with a 19.3% share, after peaking in 1996 at 24.8%

Industry data show that the portion of the Japanese brand sales that are supplied from their NAFTA plants have risen steadily since 1986 (when they accounted for just 11.8% of their total), until reaching 67.4% in 1996. After that year, however, sales of non-NAFTA manufactured Japanese brands began to increase at a faster rate, resulting in the decline of the NAFTA-sourced share of their sales to 63.8% in 2001, and to 62.5% share in 2002. This happened even as Japanese producers began adding significantly to their NAFTA capacity and production.

Sales of German brands are advancing rapidly, rising steadily from their 1993 trough of 206,000 light vehicles and a 1.5% market share. Their sales increased by an average of 92,500 units per year after that, reaching 853,000 in 2000. They added 28,400 vehicles to their annual total in 2001, and followed up with an additional 33,300 in 2002, producing a volume of 915,000 units and yielding their highest market share in over a decade – 5.4%. (1986 share: 3.1%.) The light truck sector is showing the most rapid growth for the German brands, exploding from just under 1,000 units in 1996 to reach 98,900 vehicles in 2001, before slipping slightly to 98,200 sales in 2002. German car sales hit bottom in 1993 at 200,000 units, then rose steadily to 783,000 vehicles in 2001 and reached 817,000 units in 2002.

U.S. sales of Korean cars and light truck have increased sharply, bolstered by the lowest prices, the longest warranties, and by several new products with markedly improved capabilities, quality rankings, and safety ratings, Their volume has grown by an average of 56,600 units per year since sinking to 109,000 sales in 1992, reaching 618,000 units in 2001. In 2002, sales grew 5% to a volume of 650,000 units, generating a 3.9% market share – their highest level ever.12 (1986 share: 1.1%.) Sales of Korean cars have nearly tripled since 1986, reaching 485,000 units in 2002 and producing their highest share of the car market – 5.9%. Korean light truck sales totaled just 8,000 units in 1995, their first year on the American market. In 2002, they generated a market share of 1.9% by growing sales 34% to 165,000 units. They jumped 70% in 2001.

[AUSSIEVETTEMAN]

All the Corvettes in this country are imports!
I guess I could say, yes imports are great, but I would have to say that the rice burners should be land fill!

Cheers

Tony
:beer

[Johan]

Where is that smily holding a "I'm with stupid"-sign?

Anyway, I'm driving an import. A Vette.

[Roadfrog]

Yes, I'd buy an import. Three of the four cars I own are imports. The exception is the ZO6. Frankly, and sadly, IMHO, the imports have fewer service issues than the domestics I've owned...by far.

[b_pappy]

Well, let's see; currently own 1956 Nomad, 1980 Citation X-11, 1990 Beretta GTZ, 1997 Yukon GT, 2000 Corvette, 2000 Harley Davidson. All run flawlessly with only scheduled maintenance. I must be doing something different from some of you guys. I've owned European and Asian cars and bikes, just find domestic every bit as reliable and a better bargin in the long run.
Bruce

[corvettecrazy]

I would only buy 2 imports: Skyline R34 GTR and S15 Silvia

I with b_pappy in ways on this one. My mom drives a 1996 Bonneville, about 80,000 miles. The repair list goes as follows: Water pump, belts, and the normal(brakes & tires), and it has only burned 1 light bulb.

[atmmac]

My most reliable car so far has been my Vette. The only real issue was steering column lock (2 times!). My 94 V6 Camaro (winter Beater) is going to need a new clutch soon and has had to have the sway bar replaced. The impala sat in a garage and was fairly reliable after i did allt he work...until my master cylinder failed while driving!

As far as imports more reliable... my father owns a 2001 volvo S60. He bought the car new. At 12,000 miles his front axle or some piece like that i just cant remember fell off of the car and the cars began grinding gears and was stuck on the side of the road. The door locks have broken 2 times. Its burned about 4 lights and it just has not been a good car.

Stick with GM!

[boomer]

To answer the question in one word: NO. I've owned nothing but American (with the exception of my Kawi bike). I've never had reliabiltiy issues (my winter car is a Dodge Intrepid with 165k miles and nothing but normal service stuff). As long as GM, Dodge, and even Ford, keep making cars, there will never be a import sitting in my driveway.
Oliver :pat

[Buster1]

I'm looking at a pickup truck as a 3rd car. Sadly (for GM and Ford), I think I'll be buying a Toyota Tacoma. From what I've read and heard, the reliability of the Toyota's are outstanding. Engines last until 150,000+ miles...whereas US pickups have problems over 100,000 miles. Sorry US truck owners. But I'll still keep the daily driver Pontiac, and the Vette!

[Flared69]

interesting image for you all :)

[Ken]

At least Chevrolet falls in there a little above the industry average. :eyerole

[ness]

My wife and I own a Tahoe, a Silverado, 2 Corvettes and an MG Midget.
Personally, I would never buy an import as a daily driver, to much of our
good 'ol USA is moving off shore....

:pat

[boomer]

I'm just curious, but how does this: Quote "I shouldn't be made to feel un-American when so many other products are imported." Quote, justify buying foreign. I'm not saying they're all junk, I'm just bothered by the way (some)people don't even care that they are supporting some other country, rather than our own. IMO we all need to be more concerned about this, it effects everyone that lives here...
That may be alittle off the topic, and I'm not trying to start anything, just my $0.02.
Oliver :pat

[boomer]

I'll get off my soapbox now... lol

Oliver

[redvett]

Buy imports if you want, there is little reason to build a strong economy to support the younger generation when and if they can retire. :eyeroleI have to agree with DAD. Buying foreign owned vehicles or anything else hurts our economy. Buying American owned companies products like RCA,Zenith,Tide,GM,Ford, buy from american and make your self be able to retire.

[MaineShark]

There are a few imported cars I might buy, but I wouldn't buy one new. The only new vehicles I will consider buying are American brands.

The closest thing to an import that I've owned was a 1990 Ford Probe, which had a Mazda engine. The chassis never gave me any issues, but that Mazda engine drank oil like there was no tomorrow.

A buddy of mine raised an interesting point on this subject, actually: how reliable a car is has a lot to do with how it is treated. On average, I'd say that imports get treated more gently than domestic brands. How often do you see an import driver religiously avoiding potholes? How about drivers of domestic brands? Now, there probably still is a quality gap, but I doubt the actual vehicle quality difference is as great as the reliability studies show - I think much of it has to do with the way that the vehicles are driven.

Joe

[MaineShark]

Buying American owned companies products like RCA...

Quick note: RCA is French-owned. It is a subsidiary of Thomson, a French company based in Paris.

Joe

[redvett]

There are a few imported cars I might buy, but I wouldn't buy one new. The only new vehicles I will consider buying are American brands.

The closest thing to an import that I've owned was a 1990 Ford Probe, which had a Mazda engine. The chassis never gave me any issues, but that Mazda engine drank oil like there was no tomorrow.

A buddy of mine raised an interesting point on this subject, actually: how reliable a car is has a lot to do with how it is treated. On average, I'd say that imports get treated more gently than domestic brands. How often do you see an import driver religiously avoiding potholes? How about drivers of domestic brands? Now, there probably still is a quality gap, but I doubt the actual vehicle quality difference is as great as the reliability studies show - I think much of it has to do with the way that the vehicles are driven.
Joe
I have to agree with you on how people treat there cars. I see some go over railroad tracks & roughroads & potholes and lose parts.HaHa. They are the first to complain about their vehicles at the dealer about alignment and other problems. For instance i had a 01 Silverado EXT 4x4 and had the original tires (Firestones ) with 50000 mi and looked like new. Customer came in to the Chevy store and complained that his 03 Avalanche alignment wasnt any good after 5 alignments. He just plain was abusing the truck. The dealer loaned him another truck and he did the same thing with it and i personally drove his truck for 2 weeks with no problems. He finally agreed he was driving it to hell. (BTW I dont get paid for this) just did it for the fun of it. Gas was free. :-) You cant drive these vehicles car or truck like monster vehicles.

[atmmac]

I also agree that we shoudld support our American workers and companies. Im sorry but I will never in my life own an imported car. I try to buy everything made in the USA Craftsmen Tools, Cars, Tires (No Yokohomas or other strange named Japanese Brands here!).
I completely disagree with these imported japanese vehicles, It is not a fair trade agreement. Our cars are pretty much not even sold over there!

-Andy

[Brett]

Those JD Power bar graphs leave a lot to be desired though.

Different kinds of vehicles have more problems than others. Like many of you mentioned, trucks get beat to hell much faster than a Honda Accord. Do those bar graphs for each company include ALL of their vehicles? If so, the foreign automakers make A LOT less trucks and SUV's than domestic automakers. Perhaps it is the truck/SUV factor that gives the domestic cars higher problems-per-vehicle statistics, because people beat on these types of vehicles.

Also, over what time period are these numbers collected? First year of the car? Second year? Sixth year? I would like to see these bar graphs over a period of years. Many cars may be immaculate for the first year or two, but then fall to pieces later on. I would also like to see them done in their respective groups---cars, trucks, SUV's, etc.

[Ken]

... US pickups have problems over 100,000 miles.
Not my Ford! :D

http://www.corvetteactioncenter.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=2886&stc=1

[JHL]

Our cars are pretty much not even sold over there!

-Andy
Unfortunately the harsh reality is that, outside of the US not many people want them and that includes Corvettes.

GM have tried on several occasions to sell the US products in the UK and mainland Europe in recent years with little or no success. You do see a few but not in any great numbers. They even imported some right hand drive Caddy`s to the UK and couldn`t give them away. My local Vauxhall (GM) dealer had a few Caddilacs and two C5` and just couldn`t sell them.

J.

[Blade]

One of the first cars I owned was an Mazada RX7 with a rotary engine, that was a great car.

Had two 300ZX's both were Pieces of S***

But once I could finally buy a Corvette, there is no turning back!!!!

[JR_Vette]

We own 2 Acura's, so yes I would. I will still ALWAYS have a GM product (namely a Corvette). My TSX was my first foreign car, even after 22 years of driving. I bought it after my 1999 Tahoe 4x4 fell apart after only 47K miles.

[B17Crew]

Buster1,
Overall, I think Toyotas/Honda are at the top of the quality food chain. There is just no denying that they are engineered very well and their reliability is proven. You can’t go wrong with a Toyota.

That said, I have to strongly disagree with the statement about U.S. engines not lasting. One of the younger employees where I work has an S10, 160+ thousand miles. He won’t get rid of it because it is been reliable for him, he purchased it new. I know of another S10 that has 200+ thousand miles, again, reliability has been great for the owner.

Maybe reliability was an issue for U.S. vehicles in the 80s-90s but I think the reliability gap has closed dramatically. As for quality of materials, I think the Japanese vehicles are superior, they still have great fit and finish as well. But when it comes to reliability, I wouldn’t look past a U.S. vehicle.

You would probably do better with resale on a Toyota, but more than likely you are going to pay close to sticker or a little below. You can maneuver with a U.S. vehicle price wise, but the resale may not be as high as a Tacoma. So either way you pay, up front or in the end. (the Toyota, pay close to sticker -- U.S. truck, discount in the beginning, lower resale at the end)

Would I buy an import, probably not, I’ve been happy with the reliability of the GM vehicles that I have owned. I would like to see a push for higher quality plastics in many of the GM cars/trucks. I’d also like to see tighter tolerances in body panels too!

B17Crew
:w

[vette-dude]

I voted that I would buy an import and recently did ( for my daughter). I have had it with the lousy customer service from GM and the low quality they put into their cars. Example is a 2001 Chevy LS Impala we purchased new and always garaged (yes even at work). The first month it was in the shop for unknown computer problems related to the security system. They replaced the security module and the computer. Couldn't keep the front end in alignment and went through three sets of tires in 85,000 miles. Not cheapys but quality brand radials. Paint on hood began to craze at 80,000 miles and interior (leather) was falling apart. GM customer service in Detroit said over the phone when I asked why the paint was bad that since it was out of warranty they didn't care. Seems like paint ought to last more than two years?? Traded it off and now have a Mercury Grand Marquis. So far it seems okay but we will see. I'm waiting for the other shoe to drop so to speak. My 94 Silverado has 97K on the clock and it is leaking oil and has used a quart every 2500 miles since new. Chevy says that is normal. All the engines I have built have never used any oil between changes and never leaked. Every foreign car I have seen that are as well maintained as my cars never leak oil and never use any either. After 100K these importeed cars seem to be just barely broke in and the paint and interiors are normally in very good condition. Will I buy foreign?? Sure and I don't have to feel bad or justify it as the American Car manufacturers are doing a fine job of driving their formally loyal customers to the import car lots. My daughters new KIA Sedona has a 100,000 mile warranty and is about 10K cheaper than a comparable American product. Why is it that the Koreans can give this kind of warranty with this quality of a car and the American Manf's offer less with a lower quality and yell Foul when they lose their market place? Maybe they should look internally for the real problems.


Randy:w

[kenwa]

I owned nothing but GM cars from when I was 16 (in 1972) until I was 31. During that time my Chevy and Olds vehicles steadily declined in quality. The last straw was my '81 Cutlass. Worst piece of crap I ever owned. I swore off GM for good at that point. I couldn't bring myself to buy an import, so I bought a 1988 Taurus. Pretty good car, not too many repairs. I traded in in on a 1996 Taurus. Another good car. No power though. My wife wanted to get an Accord in 2000 so I swallowed hard and we got a new one. Great car. My son then wanted a Civic so we got him a used 2000 Civic. Great car. No power though.

With my other son turning 16 last year, I decided we had enough sedans and I gave him the Taurus and bought the Vette. Yeah, it's got enough power. I really worried though about quality and potential repairs after the Cutlass nightmare.

So, on the four cars I now own, here's the scorecard:
Taurus: not one repair in 110,000 miles.
Accord: not one repair in 48,000 miles.
Civic: one wheel bearing at 105,000 miles. Cost $100.
Corvette: New water pump. Leaking oil filter adapter. Leaking transmission seal. Now has 67,000 miles. Repair costs in 1 year: $700.

So far, looks like the same old GM.

One the other hand, which one do I want to drive? Take a guess.

Ken

[72Mako]

I buy American when I can. Wife had a '86 Blazer with the 2.8 V6 she purchased new. At 45K the intake manifold gaskets let go dumping coolant into the oil pan. Wiped out the motor. A very common problems with the 2.8 but no recall. Dealer from whom she purchased the vehicle would do nothing. Contacted GM about it and the person actually laughed over the phone. Ended up footing the bill for a new shortblock with no discount help from the Chevrolet dealer or GM. Kept the vehicle as it literally fell apart to try and recoup the cost of the new engine. Ended up buying the wife a new Dodge Caravan and it has proven to be reliable. That little episode did it for me with GM. All I wanted was some help from GM on a very common problem with the 2.8 V6. In another of words, back up your product. I will not buy a new vehicle from GM ever again. Honda vans come highly recommended but I went with the Caravan because I buy American all things being equal. Bought a Honda CRX-Si new in 1990 (The other 2 seaters were out of my price range) and it has proven to be dead reliable. Charles

[atmmac]

I buy American when I can. Wife had a '86 Blazer with the 2.8 V6 she purchased new. At 45K the intake manifold gaskets let go dumping coolant into the oil pan. Wiped out the motor. A very common problems with the 2.8 but no recall. Dealer from whom she purchased the vehicle would do nothing. Contacted GM about it and the person actually laughed over the phone. Ended up footing the bill for a new shortblock with no discount help from the Chevrolet dealer or GM. Kept the vehicle as it literally fell apart to try and recoup the cost of the new engine. Ended up buying the wife a new Dodge Caravan and it has proven to be reliable. That little episode did it for me with GM. All I wanted was some help from GM on a very common problem with the 2.8 V6. In another of words, back up your product. I will not buy a new vehicle from GM ever again. Honda vans come highly recommended but I went with the Caravan because I buy American all things being equal. Bought a Honda CRX-Si new in 1990 (The other 2 seaters were out of my price range) and it has proven to be dead reliable. Charles
Thats strange with the blazer. My uncle had that same year and he put 220,000 miles on it and it still ran great when he sold it!!

-Andy

[Edmond]

My daily driver is a 94' V6 Camry. It has more than 155K on the clock and is still as reliable as any car I've driven. In fact, I haven't driven the Vette' for an extended period of time this year since the gas prices are so high.

I have no problems with buying an American car. And like someone else said before, the quality gap has closed very fast. Is there even a gap anymore? I would have no qualms about driving a GTP or one of the new Grand Prix's; I think they're nice vehicles. In hindsight; the Japanese cars seem to cost a lot to have repaired. Fortunately, I've never encountered a problem that I couldn't fix myself. Just to change 6 spark plugs on the Camry took me 3 hours! If I was one that couldn't do it myself, I would've been out a lot of money at the dealership.

I just wouldn't buy a new car, period. I don't care if it's a Corvette or not because I'm not too keen on taking the depreciation on the car. I figure that I could save a lot of money with buying a car that's 3-4 years old. Cars built today are getting better and better. A 3-4 year old car is still pretty new to me. I've never driven a new car before and I don't think that's going to change; all the cars I've had have been pre-owned.

[BrianB]

I had a Skyline GT, "Paul Newman Special Edition" when i was stationed in Japan. If they offered them here, I'd be the first one in line. The top of the line Skyline is world class. They used to be the "Vette" of Japan, but now they are in the super car class. If you can get one.

[DRTH VTR]

I totally swore off GM after I owned a Vega. Not long after that, I rented a 1980's Lumina or Cavelier or some other worthless piece of crap. Until a few years ago, I would not have considered any GM car. They treated us like we were fools with no choices. There is a difference between frugal and cheap. The last cars that I had over the last 20 years were ALL foreign: Honda, Mazda, Nissan, VW, etc. The car that I had right before I bought my first Corvette was an Eclipse (yes, I put a fart can on it :( ). The car that my girlfriend has is a BMW 330xi. It is a very nice car.

Lately the American car companies seem to have had a change in attitude. Quality became important. Lord knows that it was of no consequence in the 70's, and especially the 80's. Chevy put out some real dogs. I love the Corvette. I liked the Chevelle SS and the Camaro. When I was a kid, we always had the BelAir, then the Impala. It took quite a bit to turn me away from Chevrolet. But hey- they worked hard to run me off.

[Jack]

A large portion of the parts/components of most USA brand cars/trucks are made offshore ... or by USA plants that are owned by offshore companies.

Fact: A lotta the power (vacuum) brake boosters assembled onto USA cars are made by Bosch Braking ... the parent is in Germany ... a large chunk of those Bosch boosters have been assembled in Mexico ... VERY soon the majority of those boosters will be assembled in Mexico as Bosch Braking closes one of its largest USA booster plants ... moving those ops to Mexico ... of course, the majority of that one plant's 800+ USA workers will be out of a job. I've little doubt that many of the jobs in nearby supporting-supplier plants will be slashed as well. The soon-to-be-closed Bosch Braking plant I speak of is in Sumter SC USA ... home of Shaw Air Force base.

Ford owns Jag, GM owns Saab, Volkswagen did or does own Rolls.

A German-owned company (RWE) bought the public water works in a Missouri USA county ... same company has bought public water works all over the world ... same company also trades in energy. Control of fuel is a serious matter ... but to rely upon any offshore interest to provide water (a basis of life itself) to USA is sheer idiocy.

I understand that several years ago "we" licensed the Japanese to build their own F16 fighters.

I own stock in a major bank of usa ... have accounts there also ... they are outsourcing accounting (with my data) to India ... a stockholder has proposed this is too risky and asks for a vote at upcoming shareholders meeting ... a vote to compel the bank to prove that outsourcing our private info to India is safe. Of course, the bank's board of directors is asking the shareholders to vote against it. What do they care ... with salaries of 1.5M and bonuses of 6.5M ... why worry.

The way things are going, I don't see it makes much difference what brand you buy ... most of the makers & suppliers are sleeping together ... regardless of nationality. And I guess I shouldn't be too surprised when I find a Pepsi machine accepting Euros. And if we don't soon get right with the Middle East, we'll be lucky to have a Dinar to buy a handful of couscous. God Bless America, please!
JACK;help :pat

[Evolution1980]

I'd also have to question that graph. Besides what's already been mentioned about it's statistical representation, I have to wonder how Mercury can rate so much higher than Ford. Same cars...same recalls. Why the major discrepancy? And where's the data on the actual sampling rate of each company? So the chart is based on "per 100 vehicles". OK. Well a company, such as Buick with smaller sales will have a smaller sampling rate than say Chevrolet. The charted number can swing greatly either way based on how many were defective. Keeping it simple, if Buick only had 200 cars sampled, and only 1 rated as bad, that gives them a 99.5% success rating. Maybe with a bigger sampling they would have found more cars (clusters) of bad ones, which could have significantly changed it's place in the chart. (I'm just using the high ranking Buick as an example.)

As for all the other thoughts (and honestly I only perused the responses thus far), the world is becoming more global/unified everyday (in many respects). If 99% of Toyotas are built here and all our union guys are getting their paychecks and getting paid a fair amount, then where's the problem? So a couple big wigs in Japan make a big buck too. So what? Most of that money stays here in the local economy. So how much does it really matter where the WHQ is located? If most of your expenses is in mfg labor costs, then that money is being spent here in the states.

For whatever it's worth, people forget that Japan has no natural resources of it's own. It's a big, rocky island. It has to import everything just to make stuff to export it back out. Same kind of logic applies to "Made in Hong Kong". Almost NOTHING is MADE is Hong Kong. Hong Kong is just a middle man, a shipping port. There's very very little big industry (if any!) in Hong Kong. There's no room!

The argument could go on and on ad infinitum, because much depends on what "scale of economy" you are using as your sample. And like most things, if people look hard enough, they can find enough info to support their own views, and the other side can do the same thing.
As for tires, such as ATMMAC pointed out about Yokohama or other japanese (or foreign sounding), take a deeper look at where most items are made or who produces the raw materials. Again, Japan doesn't have a huge snythetics industry. (BTW, tires are no longer made from rubber trees anymore, which Japan has none of those either.) Their synthetics come from other companies that have 'rubber' producing facilities in every country of the world. So if Yokohama is buying their raw materials from US owned companies, are you really buying Japanese tires?

I am a contractor for HP, but I work at a chemical manufacturer's WHQ in Ohio. (One of their businesses previously owned was BFG, which for those that don't know, the rubber/tire business is now wholly owned by Michelin now and has been for many years.) The company sells raw materials to 3M. Now, you say, "3M...There's a good American company!" But ya know what? All the manufacturing is going over to Asia because the market is stronger over there for 3M products. They actually save money by shipping the raw materials over there, having the product made, then shipping it back over here. So again, who's economy are you supporting when you "Buy American"?

Globalization is taking place at a fantastic rate. Everyone relies on everyone else for everything else. We buy Toyotas, that place money in the pocket of people that manufacture them in the States. They go and spend that money in their local economy on goods and services, that support the entire economy overall.
Or...maybe they take their money and buy some cheap knock off made in India that costs 3x times that from a US based company. Maybe that's the case, but the person is going to take the 3x money they saved and spend it on something else, maybe something that IS made by a US company. So the money still stays around here. It's not like you are paying $35K for your Lexus and that entire $35K is going across the water.
Globalization...in the end, as with any game, there are winners and losers. We all play the best we can. If you think that buying only from American based companies makes you better, then by all means BUY AMERICAN! Good for you! Stand tall! But chances are, it's not too much American. Some foreign company/employee/whatever had their hand in it somehow, just as we have our hands on stuff that goes to them.

It's all economics and it goes on forever. People study it..write books about it...spend lives tracking and graphing, summarizing, theorizing, hypothesizing, whatever.

If ya like what ya got and ya feel good about it, then....

[Evolution1980]

one other thing...the LT5 (ZR1 engine) was built buy MerCruiser, but wasn't it developed by Lotus? Lotus ain't American! I don't see anyone disassembling their ZR1 and putting in an a trusty US made 350ci from the General...:L

Oh, and my next daily driver (crossing my fingers), an Infiniti G35.

[jester]

The car I drive to work is a Subaru Forester. I bought it because I wanted a small SUV and neither Ford or GM had one at the time. It hasn't required much service, but my service experience with Subaru (both dealer and corporate) has been worse than with GM.

My family cars have been Pontiacs for over 30 years (12 new cars) and overall have had less problems than my Brother-in-Law who swears by Honda's.

I always take those surveys with a large grain of salt. As has been said earlier, you need to understand the details behind the survey to properly interpret the results. It seems to be fashionable to bash the big American companies.

[Edmond]

Jester,

I see you are in Savage, MN. I was talking to my friend last night who lives in Prior Lake. Is that close to you? She works in Chaska. Are you guys close?

[sj20343]

I am only 30 years old, so not that far removed from the import craze. The bottom line is, that the foreign markets have found a niche. Flashy, affordable cars, that can be tuned and modified to the owners outlandish desires. Kids do not care about what country the car came from. I see this as a craze (thank you fast and the furious), that will pass as the mini truck phase did. As these kids get older, there tastes will change, and they will see the light. What makes this argument even more grotesque, is that the American auto-makers are trying to cater to this craze as well. There is nothing worse than seeing a riced out American car.

America still manufactures the best trucks, and the car's are just as reliable as any foreign car. The bottom line is how the owner takes care of them. There are statistic's and graph's for both sides of the argument. The debate gets even more heated when comparing American trucks with foreign trucks. Now we have to contend with the Nissan Titan. I don't think I could live with myself if I replaced my Silverado with a Tundra. It just wouldn't feel right seeing a Tundra in my garage with my 2 corvettes. By the way, my Silverado has over 100K, very tough hard miles. Not a single problem. But as I said, I take care of it. So to answer the question, you will never see an import at my house. As long as I have an American option, I will always choose American. I have 4 of them sitting in my driveway.

[Evolution1980]

I also had this through pop into my head and I thought I'd throw it out for comment. When it comes to cars, not trucks, not SUV's, but cars... What do any of the American groups have anything remotely exciting that isn't the vette? The Mustang? Ok...that's one. Any others come to mind????

I can't think of any. But I can think of plenty of nice import cars that are quite exciting and aren't pieces of crap. (Don't forget, import isn't just jap cars...it's german, and everyone else as well!)

The Mazda 6i, Infiniti G35, Nissan Z, Subie WRX, Mitsu Evolution. Hell, even the new Toyota Solara looks more exciting than most american cars right now.
The choices from american makers just isn't there. Ford has the Mustang, Taurus, and Focus. That's it for cars...from one of the BIG THREE!!! 3 cars?!?!? That's my choices??? GM has a few more choices, but nothing that isn't pretty much ugly or darn close...and even still, I wouldn't consider most any of them "exciting". Is Chevy still the Heartbeat of America? Is Pontiac still building excitement? Hardly...
It's all about trucks and SUV's... Hey! What about us car guys?!?!?

[sj20343]

I would agree with you, that there are not too many American SPORTS cars to get excited about from a looks perspective. My argument comes from a reliability perspective. It has become way to easy for people to say that American cars are not reliable. Most of my friends that use this argument to justify buying foreign motor vehicles, have no data or past experience to back this claim. It becomes all too trendy to use hearsay, and jump on quotable bandwagons.

IMO most car's foreign and domestic are probably equal from a reliability standpoint. The only debate's that hold any merit are performance statistics, so to each their own from that standpoint. It just sickens me to constantly hear people bash American reliability. If you want to buy an import based on looks alone, more power to you. Just don't lose site that GM and Dodge are starting to update the looks of their vehicles. I think they have recognized that they have been behind the curve. Other than their trucks, and the mustang, Ford still has something to prove to me. Hopefully, more Americans will begin to see this, and start buying American again. After all, it's one of the few remaining things that America still produces, and even that is debatable.

[BLACK MOON]

Not to fuel the fire but why should we worry about buying 'foreign'? The big 3 automakers have already sold us out buy exporting more and more production overseas. All of those thinking that buying GM, Ford or Chrysler is 'buying American' should look under the hood. I think you would be surprised by the percentage of that 'American' car that is produced in America. You are buying a half breed whether you realize it or not.



Personally I like to buy quality. The only exception is the 18 Vettes that I've owned. I have to admit that they are getting better and hopefully will someday have the quality their foreign competitors have maintained for years.

[C4ME]

"Imports" are predominately built here in the good ole USA by Good ole USA workers who are paid by the foreign manufacture very well. That money is spent in our economy. Yes, there is the profit that goes back to the home country, but those home countries are our allies and their economies need to be strong so that they can afford other American goods that they import by the ton. Their culture is filled with Americana and we should be happy to supply it. Look at Harley's in Japan for instance. Surely the decerning biker wants to own a piece of the legend and will pay for it. Look at our friends on this board that purchase vettes in foreign lands.
The days of isolated markets are gone. There are zero vehicles that are solely the product of the US. It is just not ecomomically viable. Funny, thing. I just bought a Suzuki Forenza car. It is built by what use to be Daewoo in S. Korea. Interestingly enough, Daewoo, on its way to closing was bough by....GMAC. SO who is the winner now? I say me, as I purchased a well built car that gets good gas mileage and all for less then $9000 dollars. Guess which country gets the profit? The good ole USA. The lines of product nationality are blurred. Believe me, as a veretran, I am as pro-USA as could be, but to sacrifice my hard earned dollar for misplaced feel-goodism is not an option. That is not to say that you should stop buying American, I want to when I can get the best deal.

(soap box folded)
Thanks

[lt1srule]

Last year my friend bought a new diesel Chevy pickup because it was american... so I said "lift the hood"... and I pointed to the Isuzu nameplate on the engine. Another friend just bought a new Saturn Vue and of course I had to inform him it had a Honda engine. This was my favorite story so far though, ... I went in to the Pontiac dealer last month to see the new GTO. I told the salesman that I'd be more inclined to buy it if it said Holden Monaro on it instead of GTO, since I'd owned 3 REAL GTOs from the 60s, and I despise manufacturers resurrecting a sacred name just to try and sell junk. He said "a what"? I happened to go to Australia and New Zealand last year and fell in love with several of the Holdens... especially the Maloo R8. My friend in Australia sent me several brochures for Holdens, and I just happened to have them in my truck, so I pulled out a Holden Monaro brochure and blew the salesman away. He was totally clueless about it's origin.

I sold Chevrolets for 3 years, and I've owned 51 vehicles (but I'm 58 years old)... 9 Corvettes, 6 El Caminos, several GTOs, 442s, and SS396s from the years they were respected... and I'm driving Toyota #9. When u get tired of cars as often as I do, u can't afford to buy american, because they have such dismal resale value. I think american manufacturers basically build pretty good vehicles any more, but not because they wanted to... because a bunch of us started buying foreign, and they had to play catchup to stay in business. If american manufacturers would concentrate on their image and reputation like HYUNDAI and KIA (checkout the sales figures for Korean car companies in the last 5 years)... and offer warranties and customer service to back up their products... and build a few hot products that would sell, they might win back some of us west coast buyers. If they win back their reputation, resale value comes along with the territory.

Oh... and for those of u that haven't heard of a Holden, much less a Maloo HSV R8... here's a link (trucks in Australia are called utilities, or ute for short, and HSV is Holden's Special Vehicle division... kinda like AMG is for Mercedes)

http://www.pistonheads.com/doc.asp?c=47&i=3514

[AUSSIEVETTEMAN]

... This was my favorite story so far though, ... I went in to the Pontiac dealer last month to see the new GTO. I told the salesman that I'd be more inclined to buy it if it said Holden Monaro on it instead of GTO, since I'd owned 3 REAL GTOs from the 60s, and I despise manufacturers resurrecting a sacred name just to try and sell junk. He said "a what"? I happened to go to Australia and New Zealand last year and fell in love with several of the Holdens... especially the Maloo R8. My friend in Australia sent me several brochures for Holdens, and I just happened to have them in my truck, so I pulled out a Holden Monaro brochure and blew the salesman away. He was totally clueless about it's origin.
Oh... and for those of u that haven't heard of a Holden, much less a Maloo HSV R8... here's a link (trucks in Australia are called utilities, or ute for short, and HSV is Holden's Special Vehicle division... kinda like AMG is for Mercedes)
http://www.pistonheads.com/doc.asp?c=47&i=3514
True, the ute is a pretty tough looking toy and so is the Monaro/ GTO!
Also check out www.holden.com.au (http://www.holden.com.au) & www.hsv.com.au (http://www.hsv.com.au) for all the other toys we have here in Australia.
Mind you, the heart is still a chev, even though the style is typically Aussie.
It is just another example of what a global car manufacturer like GM can do with using parts in different models for different countries. I would much rather see the Corvette come to Australia, but that may never happen!

:beer
Tony

[firedawg]

Yes, but I think the only one I would buy would be a BMW if and when I may need a family car (and my pick-up isn't practical)

[smook]

For the utility side of things, I like the Acura MDX and HONDA Pilot. My wife's car and my drive to work vehicle. Remember we live in Toronto, Canada. It snows here.

Otherwise, I voted YES for utility vehicles. BUT for sports cars... only CORVETTE !!
-Bill.:D

[Ritchie]

To me it's where the bank is, where the money winds up. Japanese cars may be made here but I would have to think the money ends up in japan. Also, I think that bad assed hot rods are USA turff. There are fine cars from Europe and Japan but they are not for me. I will accept a free Mercedes or Porche or Fararri.....
I Love American muscle. Thats the main reason. And if we keep buying Jap cars how are our guys supposed to catch up? I think the gap has closed already.
I also think Japanese cars should have japanese flag stickers on them not US flags LOL

[srthom13]

I feel the same way. It is where the profit dollar lands that matters. Yes, we do have assembly plants here in the US that assemble Japanese vehicles but most of the parts and profits dollars are Japanese. GM has plants in Canada and Mexico but the final profit dollar winds up here. By the way, All vehicles have issues and problems, including the Japanese. Have you ever noticed that there are not too many American made vehicles in other countries. WHY? I don't think it has anything to do with the alleged mechanical issues of the American made vehicles -- it has everything to do with the dollar/yen/euro. Steve

[DRTH VTR]

Yes, but I think the only one I would buy would be a BMW if and when I may need a family car (and my pick-up isn't practical)
My girlfriend has a BMW 330xi. It is a very nice car. it is too civilized for my taste, but it is a nicely engineered vehicle.

[Ritchie]

I saw a documentary on the history ch. about the Autobauhn.
I have a new respect for German cars and German traffic laws.
They really put the smack down on tail gaters.

[bluecoupe]

Two words... "resale value"...



:L ;LOL Just kidding!!!!! How many 72 Datsun Z cars are still on the road and how many 72 Corvettes are still on the road? Imports are built to self-destruct after 10 years. Try to find a 1979 (import) Dodge (Mitsubishi)Challenger then try to find a 1970 Challenger. The NSX was the first decent Import but it is too overpriced. Did you also notice that most of the best "imports" are the ones built right here in the USA?

The auto world is all mixed up... my Impala is built in Canada and my Isuzu was built in Indiana. Some parts on the Isuzu even say GM on them. MY C5 is a mutt. Parts are made in USA, Mexico, Canada, Japan, Germany, etc.

[redvett]

I feel the same way. It is where the profit dollar lands that matters. Yes, we do have assembly plants here in the US that assemble Japanese vehicles but most of the parts and profits dollars are Japanese. GM has plants in Canada and Mexico but the final profit dollar winds up here. By the way, All vehicles have issues and problems, including the Japanese. Have you ever noticed that there are not too many American made vehicles in other countries. WHY? I don't think it has anything to do with the alleged mechanical issues of the American made vehicles -- it has everything to do with the dollar/yen/euro. Steve
I agree with srthom13 its where the money stays and buying a foreign owned companies products gives our money, jobs & life style away. They the foreign companies take our money and spend most of it in there country. In not to many years the USA will not be a major power or a country people want to live in.
I try to buy everything by USA owned companies. It may cost me a little more but i love my country and everyone that is part of it making our products. Save your job buy american owned.

[bluecoupe]

...The lines of product nationality are blurred. Believe me, as a veretran, I am as pro-USA as could be, but to sacrifice my hard earned dollar for misplaced feel-goodism is not an option. That is not to say that you should stop buying American, I want to when I can get the best deal.

(soap box folded)
Thanks

Ford Motor Co. is recalling nearly 800,000 pickups and sport utility vehicles because the cruise control switch could short circuit and cause a fire under the hood, the nation's second biggest automaker said Thursday.
http://news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&u=/ap/20050127/ap_on_bi_ge/ford_recall

I wonder if this switch was made in the USA? I doubt it.

[Evolution1980]

Ford Motor Co. is recalling nearly 800,000 pickups and sport utility vehicles because the cruise control switch could short circuit and cause a fire under the hood, the nation's second biggest automaker said Thursday.
http://news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&u=/ap/20050127/ap_on_bi_ge/ford_recall

I wonder if this switch was made in the USA? I doubt it.
If you're alluding to the fact that it failed because it wasn't "made in America", then that's just silly. What about Dodge recalling hundreds of thousands of SUV because their tie-rod ends are breaking off while daily driving causing people to lose control of their car? Were they made outside of the US?

What about Ford and their precious GT with the bad castings? Were those parts cast outside of the US?

What about our country's own "unlimited budget" missile defense systems that still has yet to successfully pass it's testing? Those were probably in house products. I doubt much of national security items are outsourced to foreign countries.

What about our space shuttles that blow up every now and then? Those O-rings or ceramic tiles...not made in the US?

I don't know the answers to any of those questions, but to assume just because something isn't "Made in America" that it's of poor quality is...well, ignorant and prejudiced. (There's really no way to sugarcoat that statement, sorry...) :eyerole

I'm all about American pride, but I'm also all about thinking things through and drawing logical conclusions.
Sometimes things just break. Doesn't matter who made 'em. (I'll stop here before I go off on a tangent.) :L

:pat

[Johan]

Ford Motor Co. is recalling nearly 800,000 pickups and sport utility vehicles because the cruise control switch could short circuit and cause a fire under the hood, the nation's second biggest automaker said Thursday.
http://news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&u=/ap/20050127/ap_on_bi_ge/ford_recall

I wonder if this switch was made in the USA? I doubt it.

If the switch had been made in America, there would have been no reason to recall 800,000 vehicles, because no-one would have afforded to buy the cars in the first place.

[bluecoupe]

If the switch had been made in America, there would have been no reason to recall 800,000 vehicles, because no-one would have afforded to buy the cars in the first place.

I guess since you are Swedish you are an expert on cars after all your country does make "2" cars. (now owned but US companies.) In America we still build with pride. Lucky for Sweden the people in the USA can still afford products from your major industries; cheap DIY furniture and those little candy fishes.


:pat

[Johan]

I guess since you are Swedish you are an expert on cars after all your country does make "2" cars. (now owned but US companies.) In America we still build with pride. Lucky for Sweden the people in the USA can still afford products from your major industries; cheap DIY furniture and those little candy fishes.


I am not an expert on cars (and actually we build 3 cars, Volvo, Saab and Koenigsegg www.koenigsegg.com (http://www.koenigsegg.com) ), but my common sense tells me that US cars would be unaffordable if all parts were produced domestically.

[lt1george]

Boomer,right on. I can't believe people in the USA don't realize the impact the foreign car market has on the economy . Wake UP, the job you have today is going to be gone for your children and grandchildren. The US only will have to keep expanding prisons and security systems. Not to mention lawyers, judges and cops. All the good jobs are gone thanks to NAFTA and all you patriotic America's with your Honda's and Toyota's who put the US flag on the bumper or up in the window . These foreign country will not let American cars in thier country they put a heavy import tax on them, the Japanese, Europeans, they love our American cars but their goverments are smart and tax, tax, tax our US cars, therefore people can't afford them.If you had to pay double the price for a Honda, Toyota, Nissan, would you still buy it ? Wake up and smell the coffee, keep America strong and working,these foreign countries could not beat us militarily , but are doing a number on the America economy. Do America a favor STOP BUYING FOREIGN CARS, and please I don't want to hear about Honda's, etc Made in USA.....where do you think the money goes. Work in the factories for these people, but let the car we build get shipped back to their home country and put them out of work, and see what happens. My .02 and I don't mean to offend anybody , just jogg your thinking. Keep America Great. Save the Wave.>George

[Evolution1980]

This thread is getting tiring, not to mention, old. I didn't realize it's been 6 months since I last posted my lil' diatribe. I stand by it, for anyone that just skipped down to the bottom...

http://www.corvetteactioncenter.com/forums/showpost.php?p=379264&postcount=41

[bluecoupe]

This thread is getting tiring, not to mention, old. I didn't realize it's been 6 months since I last posted my lil' diatribe. I stand by it, for anyone that just skipped down to the bottom...

http://www.corvetteactioncenter.com/forums/showpost.php?p=379264&postcount=41

That's easy for you to say. (I guess nobody's eliminated your job yet.) This is an important issue and needs to be kept in the forefront.

[bluecoupe]

If you're alluding to the fact that it failed because it wasn't "made in America", then that's just silly. What about Dodge recalling hundreds of thousands of SUV because their tie-rod ends are breaking off while daily driving causing people to lose control of their car? Were they made outside of the US?

What about Ford and their precious GT with the bad castings? Were those parts cast outside of the US?

What about our country's own "unlimited budget" missile defense systems that still has yet to successfully pass it's testing? Those were probably in house products. I doubt much of national security items are outsourced to foreign countries.

What about our space shuttles that blow up every now and then? Those O-rings or ceramic tiles...not made in the US?

I don't know the answers to any of those questions, but to assume just because something isn't "Made in America" that it's of poor quality is...well, ignorant and prejudiced. (There's really no way to sugarcoat that statement, sorry...) :eyerole

I'm all about American pride, but I'm also all about thinking things through and drawing logical conclusions.
Sometimes things just break. Doesn't matter who made 'em. (I'll stop here before I go off on a tangent.) :L

:pat

What about Dodge recalling hundreds of thousands of SUV because their tie-rod ends are breaking off while daily driving causing people to lose control of their car? Were they made outside of the US?
Likely

What about Ford and their precious GT with the bad castings? Were those parts cast outside of the US?
Most likley.

http://www.freep.com/news/latestnews/pm15761_20030806.htm

http://www.forbes.com/finance/2004/06/16/cz_dk_0616sf.html


I doubt much of national security items are outsourced to foreign countries.
Ya think?
http://www.freerepublic.com/forum/a37b930f94260.htm

http://www.thestate.com/mld/thestate/news/nation/9232104.htm

[75 flame orange]

i also bought a new 300zx in 1984
worst car i ever had,problems from day one
will never buy forigen again
we have 5 cars in our family(including the vette)
all GM
normal maintance-no problems

[Evolution1980]

http://www.freerepublic.com/forum/a37b930f94260.htm

http://www.thestate.com/mld/thestate/news/nation/9232104.htm
Nice finds! ;)

[BruceBed]

I have a 90 Volvo 740Turbo. Bought it new and looks/runs as good as the day I took it off the showroom. My wife has had 2 Lexus's and some Maxima's. They are bulletproof. If GM/Corvette wanted to learn how to run a service and customer rep dept., they should take a page from Lexus. They always get it right and follow up after the service. My wife hates my old 740, but I think it is like a old friend. You know how hard it is to give up an old friend. Everytime I bought a new domestic , since late 80's, they didn't hold up and had service issues. Sorry, this is the greatest country in the world. I just wish our products reflected this.

[bluecoupe]

How do you say Jeep and Hemi in Arabic? Bye(-bye) American.

Dubai buys £530m stake in Daimler Chrysler
THE GOVERNMENT of the Gulf emirate of Dubai has bought a £530m ($1bn stake in Daimler Chrysler.



The purchase - which makes it the car manufacturer's third largest shareholder - was made through the government's wholly owned Dubai Holding company.



The purchases leads to speculation that the car maker may now invest in manufacturing facilities in Dubai.



MANUFACTURING?



Daimler Chrysler already has its Middle East headquarters in Dubai where it employs around 100 people. Last year, the company's sales in the region were up 14% to around 29,999 units.

D A T E : Monday, January 31, 2005

[jrose7004]

The only Imports I have ever bought were for my children!

[bluecoupe]

The only Imports I have ever bought were for my children!

That's funny, I'm thinking of exporting my kids. :L

[motorman]

we own 2 imports,a 04 impala and a silverado,imported from canada

[bluecoupe]

we own 2 imports,a 04 impala and a silverado,imported from canada

And made with Mexican parts. Viva the US "eh"
:ugh

[Vette_Dreaming]

I have owned both imports and domestic vehicles. But as was asked earlier what is an import? I saw a poster once that had several domestic branded cars and they were all imported. I owned a Nissan Maxima that was made in Tennessee (if I remember correctly). The point is in a "globel economy" the line starts to blur. Right now I own two imports and one domestic. Would I buy a domestic to replace any of my current vehicles, certainly. Would I buy another import to place a current vehicle, if it was the right vehicle.

[kingman]

I leased a Jaguar X that is owned by Ford, the build is terrible but only came out after 2 years of driving it. The fit and finish is only ok. They lied about the Hp, but it was only 5-7hp difference.

I also leased a Volvo V40 wagon for my dog. She (my dog) loves it but it has too many issues that cannot be corrected. That is why they had to come out with a new model to replace it. Another Ford product.

I should have listened to my friends that l should never buy a Ford product and the are all in the car business. They love the imports but do not own any for what ever reasons.

Alan

[DanHammer]

My daily driven vehicles are both import ... 88 300E Mercedes w/ 289K miles on the clock and a 04 Toyota Sienna Minivan w/ 14K miles. Both are excellent daily drivers. I love the 300E Mercedes ... this car is just awesome even with almost 300K miles on it. Bought this used w/ 31K miles, back in 1991. The best 4 dr sedan I've ever owned, no major repairs just change oil every 7.5K miles and have used Mobil 1 ever since I owned it. Even the exterior and interior of the benz is in good shape considering it is not even garaged. So if I was to get another import ... I would buy used again ... probably another mercedes E series again, I like the 3.0 liter straight 6 engine, very dependable. :)

Now my vette (Sunshine) :D ... only on dry and sunny days ... my Harley is almost gone, since I don't get the chance to ride much ... my buddy and neighbor is already hooked on it, just waiting for full payment. There is still no substitute for the vette, in my opinion ... it is still my pride and joy and my baby.

Later .... Dan :w :v

[stilcrazee]

While we are at it , not buying foriegn cars, let's include Chrysler (Damlier Benz) in that too ok? And let's go a simple step further...let's get the government to quit giving money to foreign countries as "aid"?

[RonJ]

I picked up a Mazda Hatchback some years ago for the kids to use.

I was impressed by the ride, the handling and the reliability of the little ricer.

The electronics and electrics were excellent, considering the age of the car.

Ron ... :beer

[black_81_vette]

Well ive worked in both honda and GM dealerships and I can say this Honda as well as GM has some cars that are more prone to parts failure than others. example being the bigger GMs like the front drive delta 88s and parkavenue had less problems than the mid size platform AKA. Buick centurys and olds cutlass cieras.Same with honda the civics held up real well but accords were the most problematic.But as far as ownership of a import more than likely not. Maint costs on many imports are just not justifiable when out of warrenty.Actually I tend to stay away from most new cars because the depriciation and the headache of new car payments.You may say I have my head in the sand but Id rather buy a older GM car refurbish whats needed and be on my merry way.and yes my newest car is 20 years old. Its a 85 monte carlo ss and its been a stellar automobile and the daily driver is a corvair imagine that!

[TheSearcher]

Been driving 40 years and have owned a bunch of cars and trucks. One was not American - a Triumph Spitfire.

I happen to remember why we fought WWII and as a result will not buy a Japanese car.

I am sorry but I happen to have bachelor's and master's degrees in business from excellent schools and know that buying foreign goods is very bad for the U.S. economy long term. I do not buy foreign goods unless there is no choice and unfortunately, we are rapidly approaching the point where there will be American manufactured goods to choose at all. Maybe your grandchildren can immigrate to China and find a good job there (there will only be 5 billion in line already).

The only way the trend will change is if we have another world war and then the country with the greatest manufacturing ability will prevail.

[bluecoupe]

...The only way the trend will change is if we have another world war and then the country with the greatest manufacturing ability will prevail.

If there is another world war no one will prevail. The old guard, Europe, USA, and Russia, will not have enough troops to fight for long and will resort to their weapons of mass inhalation. The Arab nations will go first. India, Pakistan will destroy each other. China crumble under its own weight. The survivors, if any, will be planting potatoes and making their own swords.

My advise is to buy whatever you want. It is too late to do anything to stop
globalization, oppressive governments and corporate greed. Just enjoy the ride while you can.

[EBVette]

My daily driver is a:

http://temp.corvetteforum.net/members/tempsites/ebvette//MINI/mini1a.jpg

31 MPG, Handles like a go cart, Satellite Radio, Really quick, and has a five star crash rating....can the Colbalt do this? NOT... All maintenance is fully covered for two years or 30K miles, even the windshield wipers, and oil changes...can Chevy do that? NOT... Its a British built, German Engined, with motor made in Brazil. Assembled in Oxford, England. with a system that tells you day by day where your car is once you order, up to the dealership..can Cadillac do that? NOT...

Second point, none of us are driving AMERICAN cars, most of the parts are made overseas.... Labor Unions have driven down the quality and upped the price of American cars. Just read about the benefits the Union Assembly worker receives, even if he is laid off.... I wonder how many of us folks have the same benefits in our jobs...chances are not many unless you are a Union Assembly worker in the US.

The Union and the Corporate bean counters are the demise of the US Car makers... We import EVERYTHING... American thinks up the ideas and other countries make them into products making the profit from our brainpower.

I don't know about you, but in another decade we won't be producing any products, or service industry will be sent to India, and we will have a nation full of college educated lawyers, doctors, and liberal art majors all unemployed because nobody else can afford them except the politicians...and the illegal immagrants getting Government benifits.

Sorry but I think US is in sorry state.....need to wake up.

[RAP]

I'll buy a car that I feel is the best quality at the best price for me. If that's American great, that's why I bought a Corvette BTW. I've had severl european cars and they were very dissapointing. Toyota has always been very dependable for me. I have an 04 Lexus and an 05 Camry (neither made in Japan) that replaced a Chevy and Volvo. The Chevy was great, no complaints, but it has a 150,000 miles on it and the only thing GM had that I would consider was the Cadillac SRX but they were far more $$ than the RX.

Bottom line, I won't buy a car because of where it's made. If they want my business, they'll have to earn it. You guys remember the crap Detroit gave us in the 70's and 80's? They thought they owned us.

[redvett]

No i would never buy an import.
If you buy an import you are giving your job away. GM & Ford are the only american based automobile companies and buying from them keeps the dollars here. Buy from an import company and the money goes overseas. Our trade debit is the highest its ever been and if it keeps up our dollar will be worth nothing when the other countries pull there investments out.

[Thumper]

I don't get too hung up on where something was built. I buy what I like. My 98 GMC Z71 was built in Canada, but my Vette and my Jeep CJ7 were made here in the old USA. My wife is a big fan of Volkswagon. I must say the overall quality of her new V8 Touareg is first rate. I've owned a few japanese vehicles and had very good luck with them. My latest foreign purchase has proven to be one of the most enjoyable yet....

[Derek]

Yes I bought an import...it`s a 1989 C4 Corvette :lou ;)

[Edmond]

Yes I bought an import...it`s a 1989 C4 Corvette :lou ;)

:L:L:L You sure did buy an import! I'll bet it's treated you well so far.:D

[avacorvette]

:L:L:L You sure did buy an import! I'll bet it's treated you well so far.:D

My Avalanche was made in Mexico...Import?
My Corvette was made in Kentuck...Non Import
My Honda Civic was made in Kentucky also...Import?

Would my Chevy Avalanche be an import and my Honda me domestic? HELP I'm Confused

[Evolution1980]

My Avalanche was made in Mexico...Import?
My Corvette was made in Kentuck...Non Import
My Honda Civic was made in Kentucky also...Import?

Would my Chevy Avalanche be an import and my Honda me domestic? HELP I'm Confused
Ahhh... a thread resurrection! :L

[redvett]

My Avalanche was made in Mexico...Import?
My Corvette was made in Kentuck...Non Import
My Honda Civic was made in Kentucky also...Import?

Would my Chevy Avalanche be an import and my Honda me domestic? HELP I'm Confused

Your Avalanche and Corvette are made by an American company and the profits stay in the USA but your Honda is made by a non USA owned company so the profit goes to there country.
Your Avalanche has USA made engine,trans,transfer case,drive axles,body panels, and more made in the USA.
Keep the money in our country dont support other countrys.

[Mac]

Ahhh... a thread resurrection! :L
I was thinking exactly the same thing!! :L

We just replaced my wife's 1997 Toyota RAV4 (trouble free for +190k km... about +120k miles for the metric challenged) with a 2004 Volksdragen Jetta stationwagon TDI. Our first tank of fuel took us 1200 kms (750 miles). Who can argue with that kind of mileage?

-Mac

[Edmond]

Your Avalanche and Corvette are made by an American company and the profits stay in the USA but your Honda is made by a non USA owned company so the profit goes to there country.
Your Avalanche has USA made engine,trans,transfer case,drive axles,body panels, and more made in the USA.
Keep the money in our country dont support other countrys.

But you know what, Honda and Toyota has jobs here in the US, unlike GM, who ships their jobs across the border.

And where do you draw the line of being loyal to your countries economy while still wanting a car of good quality that isn't overpriced?

Would you spend more on a foreign made American car that was lower in quality than an American made foreign car that is higher in quality?

Keeping profits in this country? It seems ironic that the foreign car makers are having jobs in this country while the American car makers are shipping the jobs to Canada and Mexico. So who profits when those American jobs are shipped somewhere else? I'll tell you who, it's the executives that cut costs like that, paying pennies to dollars on labor. They're the real ones profiting. Look at the plant closings and layoffs of the blue collar workers...

[Brett]

Wow, I made this thread quite a long time ago. :D

Here's another way to look at the situation:

I recently bought an import. A Honda Accord to be exact. However, my loyalties are still with the American auto companies, 100%. How so, do you ask? Well, the way I look at it, American cars are just simply not as good, and unless they get a "kick in the pants" so to speak, they are going to think the mistakes they are making are OK. Once they start losing customers, sales, and money, they will have no choice but to change their ways.....or go down in flames. So, it's kind of a counter-active tactic, but it seems to be working (We hope...) in that the American atuo companies are actually starting to apologize a bit, own up to their mistakes, and revamp themselves with some major changes.

[toms94]

In the late 70's the American Auto manufacturers put out vehicles so bad I didn't have a choice but to buy foreign. Like Brett above me said, the quality must improve or they go bust. Quality in American cars has improved dramatically since the late 70's. How do you distinguish between foreign and dometic anymore? Honda, Toyota, etc all have facilities in the US, so to me they are American. And the "US auto makers", Mexico, Canada, I don't see that as an Import? When it comes down to it, I will buy the best vehicle for the money, be that Honda, Toyota, Volvo, Kia, Chevy, Pontiac, Ford, whatever. By the way I have owned Chevys, Dodges, Fords, Honda, Toyota, Volvo, Mitsubishi, Pontiacs, and Nissans. Some of those I probably would not buy again, I am already looking for my next car. Will it be "American"(?) probably, but maybe not in the sense of American owned or American built. Figure that one out!

[Evolution1980]

I just bought a new car (2005 model year). I wanted an "American" car.
My criteria was 4-door, 5-speed, and have some balls. And it can't be a Ford. Ain't any out there really. The US manufactures put slushboxes in everything! I was forced to look at (and subsequently buy) an import brandname. But I'm happy. My car is 65% American, 35% Japanese (engine & trans), or so the declaration sticker says...

[Brett]

I just bought a new car (2005 model year). I wanted an "American" car.
My criteria was 4-door, 5-speed, and have some balls. And it can't be a Ford. Ain't any out there really. The US manufactures put slushboxes in everything! I was forced to look at (and subsequently buy) an import brandname. But I'm happy. My car is 65% American, 35% Japanese (engine & trans), or so the declaration sticker says...

I'm curious as to what you got? I too have your "qualifications" for my next car....4-door, big ballz, etc. And you are right.....there are no American cars that fit this category. The new Impala SS comes close....but I'm not too keen on the looks, and I don't like front wheel drive. I personally love the Subaru WRX's. IMO, no other car offers such a complete package. Head of its class performance, fit&finish, and the kicker that really sets it apart---all wheel drive. I guess GM owns quite a bit of Subaru now too?

[bluecoupe]

I'm curious as to what you got? I too have your "qualifications" for my next car....4-door, big ballz, etc. And you are right.....there are no American cars that fit this category. The new Impala SS comes close....but I'm not too keen on the looks, and I don't like front wheel drive. I personally love the Subaru WRX's. IMO, no other car offers such a complete package. Head of its class performance, fit&finish, and the kicker that really sets it apart---all wheel drive. I guess GM owns quite a bit of Subaru now too?

I have a 2006 Impala. I'm lovin' this crazy car! Yes it is front wheel drive but GM has been doing front wheel drive V8s forever (Tornado, Eldorado). I needed something to get me through the northeastern Winter and a rear drive just doesn't cut it for me no matter how many traction computers they add. It handles pretty darn good for a front-wheel drive. It doesn't push in corners and not much body roll at all especially for a larger car. The torque steer never fights you or send you off your line. The looks are subtle but thank goodness they are. The thing moves like nobody's business. Look at the specs it is faster and quicker than a 1969 396 Chevelle or 1969 Z28. Think Corvette meets big tuner car. I'm glad the looks keep me under the radar. I have only 1500 miles on it now and the thing just seems to get faster. The 4 / 8 cylinder mode is not noticeable except that it gets good gas mileage. With the discount it is a sub $30 grand car that eats $50 plus grand cars for breakfast. It is solid like a BMW, comfy like a Benz, quiet like a Lexus (except for the C6ish exhaust note at idle or when you put your foot in it) and still retain it's (North) American toughness. The looks grow on you. Yes, I know it is technically not an American (US) car but even though it is from the wrong side of the Great Lakes it is a "heart and soul" Chevy. Before you give Tojo or the Kaiser your hard earned dough give it a look. You may be very suprised.

[Evolution1980]

I'm curious as to what you got? I too have your "qualifications" for my next car....4-door, big ballz, etc. And you are right.....there are no American cars that fit this category. The new Impala SS comes close....
...and what manual trans are they putting in the car??? 4 door and manual trans are non-negotiables for me in a daily driver. The vette will be the only auto I ever see myself owning, and that's because it came that way.

I settled on the Nissan Altima 3.5 SE (http://us.rd.yahoo.com/autos/new/model/trimlist/title/nissan_altima_2005/*http://autos.yahoo.com/newcars/nissan_altima_35se_2005/14791/style_overview.html). 250HP, 249Tq.
2nd gear is good for 70+ MPH. I have no problems passing people... :D
The picture section in that link is my car exactly, save for the auto trans and whatever is in the glovebox.

[tyrel]

These days the word "import" is hard to define, a lot of Toyotas and Hondas are made in the U.S., and GM has been outsourcing a lot of its parts to other countries, including those for the C6, for years. If I ever wanted a big luxury cruiser, I would buy a Lexus, imagine a luxury car with Toyota reliability, it's no wonder Lexus has such a loyal following. You can run a Toyota into the ground and it'll still keep running. I love my car, but I don't think a waterpump should fail at 70,000 miles, and a radiator at 75,000 miles, well what should I expect it was built in the 80s. I hope the c6 is more reliable than this car. Anyway, for my money, this is the most beautiful import I've ever seen, and I don't normally like BMWs. This car really does something for me:

http://www.bmwusa.com/vehicles/6/650iCoupe/

[lt1george]

NO, NEVER. Save the Wave.>George

[*89x2*]

No, I would not consider buying an import, any import :(

Buying an import under the false sense of reliability is plain goofy - Imports have recalls and such -

I have one domestic car in my drive, that has 120k on it - had one minor issue that ALL cars of the style have and GM accepted after there was no warranty, and fixed it for free - this was at 99,994 miles - they said get it in before 100k and we pay :cool

I have another domestic car that has a "slow" door lock - works 60% of the time, other times, needs 3 or 4 "clicks" for that door... In 80k plus, that isn't a bad record...

Even our Jeep - good ol' mopar junk, has had only minor issues - the 100k warranty I paid extra for, was hardly worth the extra $$$$
I bought the truck knowing not to expect a perfect truck - and it was better than avg. Would I buy another?? Probably not - another Ford might be next :cool

There was an article in the Washington Post today about out trade policies and how if we continue to buy without regard to how much we export to other nations, soon nobody will take our $$$ power seriously :(

While that might be one of the (many) reasons for buying American (U.S.A.), I have others -

[Kid_Again]

Lesse here......my daily driver is an Infiniti G35 Coupe, my wife drives an ES300 and my son traded in his Hyundai Tiburon on an IS250 AWD. We've had well over a dozen Toyota-manufactured products and the total repairs have been one plug wire set (my screw up) and a cracked strut tower on an GS300 repaired under warranty.

Our worst import experiences have been with Honda products, believe it or not. Her Legend had a bad transmission (under warranty) and I have a CR-V that has an electrical system that HAD to have been made by Lucas. A/C Schraeder valve blew....NOT under warranty.

When we first were married, we bought nothing but GM products. My first real car was a '79 Caprice Classic. Great car. Then I had a Citation...two tone paint, a dash fire and piston slap. She bought a similar Olds Omega and you could always tell where she parked overnight by the puddles of trans fluid on the ground. I tried to talk her into a Subaru, buit no, she went and bought a Buick Somerset Regal. I still remember that one....windshield wipers would go off all of a sudden or never turn on......the car had an electronic dash and when she went to trade it in on her first import, I distinctly remember the last working lights were in the shape of a smile...pretty freakin' scary....



i MAY buy another GM product but i doubt it, sadly


...it was pretty embarrassing to see the one post which listed all the "american" brands and to understand that most of them are not "made in usa"...just like my craftsman table saw which was made in taiwan

[Kid_Again]

this taken from an article posted today about a survery of automotive execs ->

"...More than three-quarters of executives predict South Korean and Chinese brands will see the largest global share increases in the next five years, with Japanese and Indian brands behind..."


Indian brands??

if there is anyone who should be able to undercut the PRC, it should be India

I also read that, for the first time, a PRC manufacturer displayed a US-bound model at a major US car show. They're HEEEERE.

[Fly A C6]

I voted never. God bless America

Joel

www.flyac6-fly2002transamws6 (http://www.flyac6-fly2002transamws6)

[zlichus]

What's wrong with having both?
I have been a Chevrolet Girl from the get go. Parents drove 65 SS Impala and 71 Rally Sport Chevelle when I received my first Hot Wheels track.

And my Dad asks 'Why?' DUH!!!

But my love for Nissans began in 81 with Mom's first import, a 200sx.

The best of both worlds for me. Just 'Drive it like you stole it, Everyday.'

[warren s]

My 07 Camry was built about 100 miles from where my 99 Vette was built. Yup, I would buy an import- sort of.

[tdr1919]

Yep, I own 2 Suzuki Vitara's for work, they run great. but
I still have my Vette!
Tom

[lt1george]

NO F***ING WAY !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[redvett]

Anyone that buys an import should be called a traitor.

[kingman]

I have to Volvo's and l'm completely happy with them. The last American car l had was a Sebring vert and it was good for only two years before coming undone.

But the only Asian auto that l ever owned was a 1974 1/2 Z and it was awesome.


And again l like the new Camry.

Alan

[lt1george]

Anyone that buys an import should be called a traitor.
YES !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
We got an old man driving around Rochester, New York in a jap car with Pearl Harbor Surviver plates. Go figure that one. Oh yea.............. I forgot if you put a American Flag on the bumper or your back window that makes it okay to drive a foreign car. I give them ALL the ONE FINGER SALUTE. Keep investing in Foreign economies. Make American Great. My .02 and I don't want to listen to anybody's BS.

[Johnnykretentiv]

Have one - Jaguar. My first non American car.

[compyelc4]

I'm thinking about it again. I've always owned GM- Chevy and Pontiac, but the lastest ('01 Bonne SSEi) has too many flukes. Only thing is I can fix most of them, but my patience grows thin with her. I'm kicking around going back to Nissan; maybe Maxima. I once owned a 300ZX and man those little beauties were built well for the money. I still love my Vette though. Would not part with her for a C6!! Now my wifes Grand Am GT... that is a sweet little number and she has never given us 1 bit of trouble. She just runs and runs. I'd like to drive it, but my wife does not like the big Bonne.

[mvarga]

The Corvette is probably the only American car I will ever buy again, and maybe the Dodge Viper if it becomes more comfortable for us guys over 6 feet tall. I've owned many American cars over the years and all of them had some inherent problem. I am currently on my 4th Toyota, of which I will probably dirve into the ground like my previous 3. I'm sure there are probably a lot of other good American cars out there. But I've been burned too many times to find out. I'll stick to Corvettes and Toyotas.