Car Lust: Nov. 2 Weekly Open Thread

by That Car Guy

(Quick note from Chris--I will be at the SEMA trade show all week, so my contributions will likely be scanty this week. However, we have lots of good content this week that takes the accessorizing theme so typified by the SEMA show and twists it in a couple of interesting angles, starting with this thought-provoking suggestion for our weekly open thread from Chuck.) All the makers are rolling out their newest and shiniest offerings to date, even in these tough economic times.

Some 2010 models are already here, a few will be late to the show, but this is the time for new life in the auto industry. So, as a suggested topic this week, now might also be a good time to reflect and put our noggins to some good use... if we vehicle consumers could change or add any features to this year's crop, what would they be?

We've thrown this idea around a bit, and some would like to see new vehicles a bit easier to service, especially day-to-day annoyances like burned out dash bulbs. Why should we have to use a flashlight to see how fast or how far we're going after dark? Why does it take 10 hours to change out a headlight? Or have to pull the engine to change the spark plugs! Also, why not pre-wire cars for aftermarket kick- want in a new car? Let's pretend, for a minute, that Detroit, Stuttgart, Seoul, Tokyo, Maranello, and Bug Tussle are all listening. This would be a good time to let them know about new doo-dads, comforts, and safety features that you would gladly fork out your hard-earned dough for. Provided, of course, that any or all spousal and family units would approve.

This is your chance to be heard. And, of course, any and all other relevant and semi-sane automotive comments are also welcome.

" The Homer " is courtesy of Wikipedia. The Lambo is eight inches long and usually sits on a shelf.

How about a basic car with hand-cranked windows, acceptable 0-60 times, say, 12 seconds, and 50 MPG without hybrid anything? A/C optional, but easily installable at the dealership for, say, $600. If we can make an engine with 1800cc displacement that makes 130+ HP, we can make one with 1200cc displacement that makes the same 85-90 HP the 1980s K-cars made good use of. Then you can make the whole thing 500 pounds lighter - less steel means better mileage AND lower production cost.

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