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I too have become disgusted with what new cars have become, and am on the path to building my own. I found it pathetic that when I looked to replace my 1993 Civic Sedan, nothing beat it for performance (I have a B20B with integra LS tranny), mpg, insurance cost, and parts/maintenance costs. Thanks to a tuned ECU I see 30-33 mpg average from a 2300# LX sedan.
As a japanese engine importer in the past, I found my business under extreme scrutiny for just importing used engines. A myriad of rules and regulations regarding small diesel engines rated by output, size and age, etc. I regularily compared myself with Nicholas Cage in "lord of war", because it seemed it was that bad at times dealing with government BS and all the grey areas in the regulations.
You wouldn't believe the crap that car makers have to go thru between the EPA, USDOT "safety requirements"-think all the liability and lawyer crap we have here, and the patent system...yes the patent system. US automakers and oil companies have been on the ball with buying up and burying technology by scarfing up the patent rights as new and competitive things come along.
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