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Old 10-19-2013, 08:30 AM   #7 (permalink)
slowmover
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Join Date: Oct 2009
Location: Fort Worth, Texas
Posts: 2,442

2004 CTD - '04 DODGE RAM 2500 SLT
Team Cummins
90 day: 19.36 mpg (US)
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The torsion-bar suspension Chryslers from 1957 onwards were easily 20 or more years ahead of GM and Ford (not until the respective 1977 and 1979 downsize/redesign).

The drivetrain was bulletproof. And brakes were often larger.

All this were good reason MOPAR had the police car line-up locked up for several decades.

Wheelbase of 122" and curb weight of 4000+ confers all the size advantages (a flattened curve afterwards) plus a V8 of up to/around 400-cid is the best performance/economy compromise.

The luxury cars (130" WB and 5000-lb) usually had MUCH better seats plus quieter interiors.

Saw 45 of the 48 states from the backseats of cars like these (all brands) from 1959-1976 growing up.

Running the Interstates is great . . but the crowds of today make it more of a chore when combined with major metro sprawl.

A 1967 Imperial Crown Coupe would be my choice for handling, braking, acceleration and most especially, ride comfort. MPG of 16, stock, could be bettered with EFI + OD trans.

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