[Rhodes22-list] Robert's new car

[Robert Skinner]

Art -

Unfortunately, I need a few more cubic feet than the Civic 
provides.  The best mileage I can find in the size I need 
seems to top out at about 35 MPG.  Until I am able to find 
an hybrid that will travel 40 miles after a plug-in charge 
before firing up the motor-generator, I'll stay with 
straight internal combustion.  I'd use a small diesel if 
any were offered.

Do you recommend that I fit a front hitch on the "boat 
mule"?  If so, why?

"Vino" mule?

"Yeah" mule?

/Robert
---------------------------------------------------------
"Arthur H. Czerwonky" wrote:
> 
> Robert,
> I just did precisely the same thing.  '03 Explorer is now strictly a boat mule, hitches front and back.
> My mileage mule is an '07 Civic @ truly 40mpg.  I don't think any other non-hybrid will match.  The 60mpg Prius is, after a magnitude of driver questions is really a 45mpg Prius.  I am pleased.  Drives quietly and comfortably, and will zip in traffic in a heartbeat.  The salesman did a demo of maneuverability that I wouldn't even attempt, and it is solid and stable.
> For local hops, even longer, I use my Vino mule @ 90mpg.  I just don't like to pay for gas.  Now the Yeah mule is the best of all - infinity mpg and I carry it on the boat.
> All of this and more is available thru Stan...
> Art
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> >From: Robert Skinner <robert at squirrelhaven.com>
> >Sent: Sep 8, 2007 7:51 PM
> >To: Rhodes 22 mail list <rhodes22-list at rhodes22.org>
> >Subject: [Rhodes22-list] Robert's new car
> >
> >In the Spring, I'll be looking for a new car for commuting
> >and long trips.  The 140K mile 15 MPG '97 Explorer will be
> >put out to pasture, other than for snow driving and
> >hauling/launching boats, utility trailer, etc.
> >
> >Current candidates are Toyota Matrix, Ford Focus, Pontiac
> >Vibe, and Mazda 3 5-door.  The Mazda seems to have the
> >most polished package so far.
> >
> >Comments and suggestions will be welcomed and mulled over
> >during Maine's cold spell...
> >
> >Thank you,
> >/Robert
> >
> >Requirements:
> >       Interior room for:
> >               4 adults or 2 adults and 2 labs
> >               2 big suitcases
> >               box for jumper cables, tow strap, blanket,
> >                    paper towels, 100' of 3/8" rope
> >               tool box
> >       30+ MPG
> >       5-door configuration - hatch back
> >       Automatic transmission
> >       Electric windows and locks, keyless entry
> >       Air conditioner
> >       Active anti-theft
> >       ABS
> >       Cruise control
> >       Variable intermittent wipers
> >       Radio w/ CD
> >       Fold-down rear seats - flat when down
> >       Hatch and rear window tint
> >       Light color paint - preferably white
> >
> >Would like:
> >       1000 lb tow bar
> >       Deep hatch and rear window tint
> >       Electric adjustable side mirrors
> >       Adjustable steering wheel
> >__________________________________________________
> >Use Rhodes22-list at rhodes22.org, Help? www.rhodes22.org/list
> 
> __________________________________________________
> Use Rhodes22-list at rhodes22.org, Help? www.rhodes22.org/list

-- 
Robert Skinner  "Squirrel Haven" 
Gorham, Maine         04038-1331
s/v "Little Dipper" & "Edith P."