[comptiger5000]

Cars have definitely gained weight over time. My Jeep is the most loaded package available for that generation, and weighs in at about 4200 pounds (base package was about 3950). By contrast, the base package of the current generation weighs about 4800 pounds, and its only a bit bigger (although the 2nd gen was similar to mine in weight). Many older large cars are similar to, or sometimes heavier than my Jeep in weight, so its not exactly light. However, compared to a lot of newer SUVs, it's practically a feather.

Plus, while it does have some nice luxury items, it leaves out all the excess "safety" crap. It has the basics, 2 airbags, door impact beams and ABS, but nothing more. Traction control is formed by the driver's right foot and the transfer case selector. Stability control is the driver's foot and the steering wheel.

I really don't understand why new cars have gotten to the extent they have with regard to "safety" features. 20 airbags, traction control and stability control may be nice, but make it an option! Some of us would rather drive without the car telling us what to do anyway. Same goes for so many cars only coming as automatics. Whatever happened to the consumer having a choice?