Quote:
Originally Posted by 99MAXIMA
I have found a local '96 Geo for sale with 126K miles but it is an automatic.
Are the automatics that much less desireable for FE?
Thank You,
Rod
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Yes, a 3 cylinder loses 10-15 mpg with the automatic as compared to a stick. The 4 cylinder loses probably 3 or 4 more MPG to the 3, and the 4 door a little more than that. The ideal Metro is the 3 door hatch with a 3 cylinder and a 5 speed as it is the only one that gets phenomenal mileage without a lot of special driving techniques. Also, no matter what Metro you look at, be sure to check the frame where the front suspension attaches as it is a common structural failure point due to rust. You also need to do a proper compression test to check for burnt exhaust valves as they are another common problem. Given the choice though I would rather have burnt valves than rust issues as mechanical stuff is easier to set right than structural.
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No green technology will ever make a substantive environmental impact until it is economically viable for most people to use it. This must be from a reduction in net cost of the new technology, not an increase in the cost of the old technology through taxation
(Note: the car sees 100% city driving and is EPA rated at 37 mpg city)