Questions/comments about safety vs mpg?

When I was a kid, my dad had a 1968 Mercury Montego MX like this drawing above.
It was a great car, fast and cool looking, really the only one of my father's cars over the years that you could say that about. And I was a kid during the oil crisis of the 70's but I remember the lines for gas, the odd or even days based on your plate number. I even remember my dad saying that for such a big V-8 powered car ( 302 cid with a 2bl carb ) his Mercury got 20 mpg on the highway! That seemed like a lot to me at the time. That was around the time the Japanese cars started to really pop up on the streets of New York. And I've been thiking, if a big old "gas guzzler" like that got 20 mpg in the 70's why can't we do much better today? My 2006 Mazda 3 with a 2.3 I-4 gets about 30 mpg on the highway. So I got nostalgic about my cars and decided to post about the safety vs mpg issue.

In 1998 I bought a used 1992 Ford Crown Victoria, with the 4.6 V-8 and this is often called a "gas guzzler" as well. But I remember it fondly for many reasons, not the least was the fact people would move out of my way on the turnpike, thinking I was a state trooper. I took this car on my own personal pilgrimage in 1998 to Dearborn and Ford's World Headquarters. And thanks to the trip computer, I can tell you that on that long 2 day drive I averaged 25 mpg on the highway! Not bad for a "gas guzzler" huh? I'd say these two cars are very comparable, in size and power (despite the 2 extra doors on the Crown Vic) but the Crown obviously cheated the wind better.

My very first brand new car, was my 1988 Ford Festiva that I got in September of 1987.

And this was a 1.3 I-4 that got 40 mpg. But it only weighed about 1900 lbs! I loved this car, it was fun and frugal, but it was gutless and felt like a tin can. Safety wasn't a major factor in it's design. So, why does my Mazda 3 only get 30 mpg on the highway in 2009? I mean we've had such drastic improvements in engine management and aerodynamics since the 70's. Why can't our new cars get 30-40 mpg? Hell, why aren't we flying our cars to work? It's the future isn't it?

I'll tell you why we can't meet the fuel economy standards we dreamed of 20 years ago.

SAFETY! While we've been complacent, somewhat, about fuel economy, we've been screaming safety. Or more precisely the insurance companies, lawyers and big government have.

Let's think about this, my 1992 Ford Crown Victoria weighed about 3,800 lbs. My 2006 Mazda 3 weights about 2,800 lbs. The Festiva as I've said weighed about 1.900 lbs (maybe even less?)

We want power (got it, my Mazda has 158 hp, my 78 Thunderbird with 302 only had 150 hp) we wanted safety (got it, my Mazda has 6 airbags ABS EBD and a very crash resistant body cage, as does every new car) we wanted room ( a Mazda 3 while being a "compact car" is damn big inside and out, as is every other car over the last decade. Look at the Honda Accord over it's life) and we all want this at a reasonable price. And the government wants us to be safe. So, if we wonder why we're not all getting 100 mpg in our Suburbans and Explorers, it's not because the oil companies and auto industry bought patents to hide that mythical 100 mpg carb, it's because today's cares are little fortresses on wheels.

And it's only going to get tougher? That's right, read up on how the government is going to double, almost tripple roof crush standards. I believe right now most vehicles must withstand 1.5 times their own weight ( which of course is so heavy because of all the safety goodies ) but the regulations are going to 3-4 times their own weight! And every vehicle must have the complete aray of air bags. Remember that's why the Ford Ranger was going to be left to die.

And yet the government screams at the same time that the auto industry has failed us, by not supplying 40 mpg cars. It's not a conspiracy folks, the government isn't evil, as far as I know, and the auto industry isn't as a whole incompitent. It's just simple math, you can't demand fuel economy and increased safety overnight. It takes time and requires economies of scale.

And what of the future of convertibles? Will these safety improvements kill them off?
Does anyone remember the late 70's? The "last of the American Convertibles" Cadilac Eldorado?

The last Ford Convertible from the 70's I can remember was the 1973 Mustang. And it took a decade for Ford to bring it back. I'm not a ragtop man myself, never owned one, but that doesn't mean I don't like them. I know they're a niche vehicle. But will our safety require the end of the drop top? Are we, or the government, asking for too much too fast?

Maybe the Ranger isn't going to die in the US?

Now that I've gotten bak into the MyFordDreams saddle, I'm getting up to speed with some of the news. I know that Igor, a frequent commentor and fanatic Blue Oval fan, had mentioned rumors of a Ranger Replacement, but Pickup Trucks . com has a piece (linked in title) about a possible replacement that would be truly "Global" unlike the current Ranger line up.
We all know that the North American Ranger is the same basic unit for over a decade. And I posted recently explaining that even if Ford wanted to they won't be able to sell it in the United States, because of safety and emissions standards in our near future.

I had complained that we weren't getting the new Thai built Ranger ( Mazda BT-50) that was available globally outside North America ( United States & Canada, although available in Mexico). But Pickup Trucks . Com says that much like the Fiesta, a new Global Ranger could be on the way for 2012! Just about time too. My 1999 unit may want to retire by then. Not that it's showing any signs of problems, but who keeps a truck 13 years?

Now, one major point I found interesting, was the mention of an EcoBoost powertrain for the US.

A 1.6 liter unit? But making 175 hp and 180 lb ft of torque sounds right for a base powerplant.

I know the concept Explorer America was supposed to be an EcoBoost 4 cyl, but I thought I read it was 2.0 liter and putting out 200 hp? Maybe that will be an uplevel motor in a new Ranger?
Maybe a V-6? But no mention of the 2 available Diesels that the rest of the world gets.

Jump over to Pickup Trucks . Com and see the article and spy photos. It's wearing Mazda BT-50 body panels, but it's suposed to be a new Global Ranger, to replace the current Thai unit and BT-50 I assume.

Flashback to Bio Fuel and Alternative fuel talk at MyFordDreams

3 years ago I posted about Bio Fuels and the post was good enough to be mentioned by esteemed blogger Mark Tapscott, who is also a professional journalist and at the time was the man behind Carnival of Cars. And today, I took the time to do a quick Google search for MyFordDreams. ( I bought a T-shirt last year that says " When I'm alone, I Google myself ")
And so I was inspired to revisit this subject and I've linked to the original 2006 post in the title.

Bio Fuels, it's been the buzz for several years now. We've seen Television and Internet pieces about the idea, local newspaper pieces on "Grease Cars" and Bio Fuel Stills run by regular folks getting the used veggie oil from local fast food joints. But that's only a small part of the story.

I had even been so inspired by the subject that I started another blog, that died quickly, Alternative Fuel Universe But even though I haven't blogged about it I haven't given up on the idea. It's an obvious solution to several important problems, from our Environment, Economy to National Security. Energy Independance is more than a handy catch phrase, it should be a very serious goal. Hybrids are the current magic pill and part of our future to be sure, but many people know that Bio Fuels are a better answer. Not that it's an overnight solution, it will take years to get it implimented.

I'd like to recant one question I raised in the original 2006 post. I don't see Corn or Soy Beans as viable sources for Bio Fuel. Since the original post I've learned about developments in the field by companies like Solazyme using algae. Like I said in 2006 it could take decades to get this fully implemented, but I no longer think it will take 90 years.

Read the original post, do a Google search and blog search on Bio Fuel, it's food for thougt.
Oh wow, that was a horrible pun, food for thought. At least I didn't say it's food for fuel. Doh!

MyFordDreams to bail out FoMoCo?

Linked in the title is an article at Bloomberg.com anouncing that Ford is taking advantage of the uptick on their stock price and the generally posative prospects by issuing another 300 million shares of stock. They'll use this influx of cash to avoid government assitance and to help fund the VEBA employee benefit obligation. As you can see here in this chart Ford's stock has been on a roller coaster over the last year, trading from a 52 week low of $1.01 per share to a high of $8.37, and is now trading around $6.08. Ford started taking steps before the economy tanked, raising money by mortgaging everything, including the iconic Blue Oval logo itself. And while that was risky, it's paid off. And even Ford's anouncement of $.14 billion losses seemed like a breat of fresh air to Wall Street, in light of GM's $6.6 billion and Toyota's $7 billion losses.

I've never invested in stocks directly, but If I can, I'm going to scrape a few bucks together and buy a token few shares of FoMoCo stock. If for no other reason than to put my money where my mouth is. In all honesty I feel it's going to turn into a smart choice. I can't afford to buy much and have never bought stock in the past, but I'm going to seriously look into this.

Finally a Hybrid that works for everyone! 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid

I snagged this video of a New York state Ford dealer doing a video walk around of the new 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid. But the more I learn about it, I realize that this is a Hybrid that blows my previous objections to Hybrids away! I for a long time had been saying that Hybrids really only make sense for folks that do an Urban driving loop, but the Fusion's 41 mpg city is really only half the story. Highway rated at 36 mpg is great, but what really tops the list is the Fusion's ability to run on Electric only up to 47 mph! I was thinking about that in relation to my daily drive and realized that I could drive a Fusion Hybrid on mostly electric power without hypermilling and probably only have to refuel once a month.

I live and work in the suburbs doing only short stints on highways and usually doing 45 mph or lower. And the Fusion Hybrid seats real adults in comfort and has a usable trunk. The Escape Hybrid was impressive enough, but it switched to the internal combustion engine at speeds over 20 mph. Now, I know that the Prius gets better fuel economy, but the Fusion is a more paletable Hybrid for everyday people.

The only thing that hurts really is the $27k pricetag. I wonder when Ford will have a Hybrid Focus? I'm sure it will meet or exceed the Fusion's economy and hopefully be under $25k.

Another video of Mazda BT-50 (Ford Ranger) last one I promise

English language video of Mazda BT-50 (Ford Ranger)

I was able to find a video in English but only for the Mazda version (BT-50) of the new Ranger.

Video walk around of new Ranger in UK

Ranger video from Russia?

Here's what a Ranger should be!

What is the future of the Ranger?

Today there was a comment on one of my archived posts that brought back one of my favorite gripes. The Ranger, how Ford has let it lapse and what I hope they will do. Ok, let's get some history here, the Ranger name started as a trim level on the full size Ford F-Series trucks, just like the Eplorer badge. Starting in the late 60's and early 70's Japanese makes started to bring compact pickups to the US, Nissan and Toyota leading the way, but Isuszu and Mazda also. So, when the Domestic makes saw an emerging market segment, they initially imported partner trucks rebadged as their own, in the case of Ford that was the Courier. But eventually they recognized that a true Domestic compact pickup would make more sense and the Ranger was born . And from 1987 to 2004 it was segment leader. In many ways it was far superior to the Courier it replaced and Ford improved it with each generation. But the evolution stopped in 2000 or so and it was just mild refresh after that, until this day. I believe it was a combination of relatively cheap fuel here in the states and our tendancy to super size everything. While competitors grew in size, the Ranger remained compact. It remains a profitable unit for the company, especially since they've done no real development over the last decade. What a shame really. But with new safety and emissions standards coming into effect soon, the current Ranger is coming to a point where Ford can't sell it, even if customers were lined up out the door, which really they aren't. One major fault is that the current Ranger can't be fitted with airbags in the A pillar. Another minor fault is that it's not available in a true 4 door cab here, while it has been all over the world, including Mexico.

But as with Ford's need for small fuel efficient car, they have the answer in their global garage.
Ford developed a new Ranger (Mazda BT-50 also ) for markets outside of the United States.
And I've posted about it before, because it's a class leader and would be a huge hit here.
I'm not sure if it has air bags in the A pillar, but I'd guess it does since it's sold in Europe.
It's also got 2 great Diesel powertrain options and one of the nicest interiors I've ever seen in a compact truck. So, should Ford rush to get this cleared to come here? Would they import it from Asia or build it here? Yes they should rush to bring it market! If the Diesels aren't going to meet emisions, they can stick the 2.5 petrol I-4 and 3.5 V-6 in there. Over the last few years I've read criticism of the Ranger on the web and speculation that Ford should introduce a new Mid Size pickup using the F-100 nameplate. I disagree, but if they did it right, I'd be willing to take a look.

Now, this is a photoshop done quite a while ago by "FUD" (?) that I had seen on several message boards suggesting that the new Ranger be based on an Explorer chassis. But at this point is that prudent? Haven't we had that already? Isn't that the crap known as the Sport Trac?
What say you? I say, bring us the Global Ranger, with the Diesel option for those pulling boat trailers.

Top Gear's Clarkson drives Fiesta Blue's Brothers style !

I love Top Gear and this video of Clarkson reviewing the new Fiesta is an example of why. Responding to complaints that they no longer do practicle testing for reviews Clarkson does his best to answer the standard questions, but then goes completely overboard.

With scenes reminiscent of The Blues Brothers or maybe even the original Italian Job and then an epic beach landing with the Royal Marines, it's got to be one of the most memorable Top Gear reviews in ages.

Ford should use part of this in their advertising when the Fiesta comes to the states next year!

American Muscle's video on how they mount and balance your order of Wheels and Tires

You may notice some new links on the sidebar, American Muscle and American Trucks. So, I was checking out their sites and found a video showing how they mount and balance the wheels and tires you order for free and explaining a little about their customer service.

Kicking Tires' Dave Thomas checks out the new Mazda 3 with Video

It's no secret that I hold the Mazda 3 in high esteem, high enough that I bought one brand new 3 years ago this month. And I was surfing around and found a short but sweet piece by Dave Thomas of Kicking Tires blog, with video, reviewing the 2010 3.

While I love my 3, I'm the first to say it's got a face only a mother could love. I bought it not on looks, although I've seen much much worse, but value and performance. To be 100% honest I bought it partly because it was the closest thing I could get to a European Ford Focus here in the US. The new 3 also has love/hate styling, but it's still got that Zoom Zoom factor that can't be denied.

When I was shopping for a new car 3 years ago, I went in with an open mind, no bias even though I love Ford. I test drove the Chevy Cobalt ( which was very good ) Dodge Caliber ( which had very interesting packaging and pricing ) and several others from both domestic and foreign manufacturers. I had specific criteria, most important was value and funcionality. It came down to the Caliber and 3 in a direct showdown. My brother had recommended a dealer than sold both brands and we arranged a direct comparison test drive. It's obvious which won, the Mazda had more power, better handling and higher quality perception.

My 3 gets 30 mpg on the highway, over 20 mpg on a suburban loop and is just tons of fun on twisty roads. The only major options I didn't get were the slushbox and navigation.
So, click on over and watch Dave give you the rundown on the latest 3.

Ford's loss statement not so bad and Bone to pick with NYC

We all read about Ford and GM's loss statements this quarter, Ford lost $1.4Billion and GM lost $6Billion. But when I read about Toyota's $7Billion loss my jaw dropped. And I read at AutoBlog recently that Ford has had a lower percentage drop in sales than many of it's competitors.
Part of that is the fact that Ford has recently introduced some great product and refreshes.
Some say it's also a benefit of Ford not taking any "bailout" loans from Uncle Sam.
I'm just greatful that Ford looks like they'll weather this economic storm.
It doesn't hurt that Ford is moving quickly to reorganize their production mix and build the new Focus and Fiesta in the United States and Mexico.
This should have been a seperate post, but I'm lazy. I have a major bone to pick with New York City. Recently they bought a small fleet of Nissan Altima Hybrids to test as patrol cars.
I'm all in favor of some hybrids being purchase for government fleets as well as taxis.
But in this economy and just as good policy, shouldn't they have bought domestic hybrids?
Doesn't the Ford Fusion Hybrid get better milage in the city loop than any of it's competitors?
Shame on New York! Whoever made the decision to go with the Nissan needs to brought into a back room and beating with a phone book.



I have to say the Fusion Hybrid just makes so much more sense.
And as I was reading The Auto Prophet's latest post, Hybrids ( especially domestics ) not only give you that warm fuzzy Eco Cred, but they help improve our fuel independance and national security! Not that Hybrids are the only solution, Ford's Eco Boost equipped vehicles will also go a long way to be greenish.

UK Fords that I'd love to own....

Ford has offered some fantastic cars here in the states over the years, but there have always been some forbiden fruit on the other side of the pond. Like the Ford RS 200. This insanely powerful street legal rally car. I saw online recently that one of these appears in the new Fast & Furious movie?

And while this was available in the US for a few years, I'd still love to be able to buy one of the rarer RS3000 or Tickford versions.

The Mk5 Fiesta, especially the ST version was another one that I've always envied. Even when the Fiesta does arrive here in the states, it's unlikely that we'll see an ST version. But with 150 hp this little car must be a blast!

And what about the Ford Puma ! Now this is a cool little car.

And for those Top Gear fans, this was their Car Of The Year in 2000 and there's a video on YouTube showing Tiff Needel tossing one around and shaking up Clarkson.

And another video, that I've posted in the past of Tiff giving stunt driving tips in one.

Maybe some day? One can dream, can't one.

Ebay auction of cap signed by Carroll Shelby!

The man the legend Carroll Shelby. And for a meager sum you can have a momento of the legend and help your intrepid blogger.

On e-bay, I have an item I'm auctioning that many true blue Ford and Shelby lovers may want to add to their collection.

No, I don't have the car to auction, be real I have a Ranger and a Mazda3, if I could afford a Shelby I wouldn't be blogging, I'd be out tearing up the streets!

But, I have a limited edition signed baeball cap for auction.

Never worn, adjustable size, in great condition, signed by the legend himself.

In order to celebrate the release of the 2006 Shelby GTH Hertz special, the man himself signed caps for employees of Hertz and one of these gems found it's way into my true blue paws.

But, alas circumstances force me to sell.

So head on over to ebay and look it up!
Item # 270386585014

MyFordDreams is open for business

MyFordDreams is now open for business again. I'd taken a bit of a break from blogging and am getting back in the saddle. And now I'm going to accept proposals for ads. I've got 2 new advertisers lined up already Car Insurance from Direct Line and also Churchill Car Insurance
Both are UK based companies, but that's fine with me, since I have written so much about the great Fords that they have over the pond as opposed to here in the states. Not that I don't love what we have, but you know I'm looking forward to the Fiesta and new Focus.

Unlike the lucky guy over at Jalopnik, I didn't get a new Fiesta to drive.

I'll have to wait until they hit my local dealerships.

What could the Fiat/Chrysler deal mean for Ford?

Well, there's no easy answer there, but Chrysler's filing for bankruptcy could have a major impact on suppliers. And IF the Fiat merger works, it could help "save" Chrysler.
But in a very simple way, the Fiat partnership would likely mean that one way or another we'll see the much praised Fiat 500 here in the states. But what will that mean to Ford?

The Ford Ka shares platform with the 500, but from what I've read it's actually better.

Does that mean we'll see the Ka here? Suposedly Americans will be clamoring for smaller cars, something I thought last year's gas prices would confirm. But we're already expecting the superior Fiesta here next year and the fact that the Ka shares a platform and some powerplants with the 500 could be a negative for Ford.

Here me out here for a minute. I know I've written about the Ka in a favorable light in the past and even suggested it would be a good move to bring it stateside. And as I said, while they share common DNA, the Ka does have better reputation for quality and even handling characteristics.

But, Fiat has a low quality record in Europe and it won't be long before the automotive press here points out to buyers the shared DNA. So, even though they're not built in the same plants and Ford's quality rating for the Ka is higher, once 500s start spending more time in the shop than on the road, will buyers assume the Ka will be crap also?

I'm torn here, I like the Ka, but the Fiesta is the one I'd be more likely to buy and does Ford need the Ka here? I'm sure a portion of the buying public will move to smaller more fuel efficient cars, but will there be enough of them to support the Fiesta and the Ka? Probably not. And will the "Fix It Again Tony" revive the "Found On Road Dead" label that Ford has worked so hard to shake?

What do you think?

Do I have any favorable words about the Mustang?

I've been beating up on my beloved Mustang quite a bit lately. I've complained about the lack of an IRS and the low horsepower compared to new competitors. So, can I say anything nice about the Mustang? Sure, without being hypocritical, it's still a great bargain performance car.

Even, maybe especially, if you consider the V6 Mustang. There are all sorts of aftermarket parts and kits that transform your "rental" Stang into a real fun and fairly fast car. And even though the GT "only" comes with 320 hp, we all know that with the right choices an owner can pump that well over 400 hp. I would suggest that you avoid the flash and go right for the performance upgrades. How many supercharger or turbocharger kits are there? Too many to count.

In all honesty, if I were to buy a new Mustang, I'd go for the Pony Package and then install an STS Turbo kit or Eaton Supercharger.

If what Igor said in comments recently are true, then things will get a lot better in 2012.

Until then, 05 forward Mustangs will continue to be the bargain performer. Maybe one of these days, when the economy improves I'll buy a used 05-06 Pony and add that STS?

CUVs killed the Woody Wagon ( sung to the tune of Video Killed the Radio Star)

Quick trivia question! What song was the first video played on MTV? Well, it was Video Killed The Radio Star by The Buggles of course. And what killed the Woody Wagon? Well, that's not as clear, it was most probably the Mini Van, but what's replacing it now is the CUV. And while I think CUVs make a lot of sense, I miss the wood.

I see these all over now and I'm sure Ford is greatful for that. The Edge CUV is a knock out.

It's got great styling and interior. The powertrain and chassis are good and it's almost a perfect family truckster. ALMOST

It seats 5, not 7 or 9. There's no third row seating. But do people really drive with that many kids anymore? I don't have kids, so the Edge is big for me.

Ford's answer to those that need the space, is the Flex. I HATE that name!

Stupid naming schemes again, but I'm not going to rant on that one, been there done that.

Built on the Taurus chassis and replacing the TaurusX/FreeStyle, the Flex has styling that you either love or hate. But, it seats 7 easily and has great chassis and interior.

But where's my wood? At one time Station Wagons were so American, and then even as they declined here, they thrived in Europe, especially the UK. But even there wagons are being replaced by MPVs, CUVs and the like. It's the alphabet killer against my beloved wagons.

I spent an hour on E-bay Motors this afternoon looking up Country Squires and other Ford Wagons. I'd love to find an old Pinto Squire. But, if I had a family, I'd follow the herd to the alphabet stew.

I was asked what I thought of the 2010 Taurus, so here it is.....

No real surprise, I like it! I loved it as the Five Hundred, because of it's great chassis and interior and I love the improved styling and switch to the Taurus name. I always thought the Five Hundred should have been called the LTD or Galaxie, but Taurus will do.

I have to say that it's over 4,000 lb curb weight is amazing, but not so when you compare it to the 3,000 lbs or more of your average "compact" car. Finally the 260+ hp of the 3.5 V6 matches it's competition. And of course you've got to love the new SHO.

But go over to Driving Enthusiasts.Net, and read what Jeff Fisher has to say.
He contrasts the new SHO to the Fusion Sport and points out that the Fusion Sport more closely reflects the spirit of the original SHO. Don't get me wrong, the 355 hp EcoBoost SHO is a dream come true on paper. God, I'd love to see that engine in a Mustang!

But overall, I think the 2010 Taurus is just a great car. And professional reviews say that the faster you go the better it feels. I will be among the very few sad to see the TaurusX/FreeStyle go. I know the Flex is the same car under the skin and that Station Wagons have fallen out of favor, but I swear they should have called that one Fairlane or Country Squire, maybe even brought back a limited edition woodside?

A Hybrid for those that need more than Eco Cred!

Absolutely amazing! I knew Ford could do it. I loved the Escape Hybrid, but with the new Fusion Hybrid, they've raised the bar in so many ways. Sure a Prius gets better milage, but the Fusion gives a Hybrid option to real folks and blows away competitors with 41mpg City!

This is a car that is truly an accessable and reasonable car for the masses. Kudos to Ford!
Not just a car for the trendy crowd. I'll give you an example, my neighbor bought a new Saturn Vue Hybrid, but GM's "Mild Hybrids" may have huge flashy graphics down the side, but what about MPG? And of course the Hollywood elite all want to be seen in a Prius. But if you want to blend in and get the real world benefits, without having to anounce to the world that you're "Green" this is the one to get.

I have a real bone to pick with New York City by the way! I read recently that they bought a bunch of Nissan Altima Hybrids. Why in the hell would they do that? Why not buy Fusion Hybrids?

Future of Ford and this blog hopefully looking better

With all the news being bad, it's hopeful that at least FoMoCo's news is less so.
We've all read how they posted much lower losses than expected and how that in turn resulted in a bit of a rise on their stock price. If I had money to invest, which I don't, I'd buy Ford stock.
For two reasons, first I think it's a sound investment and secondly to show support for the only Domestic automaker that didn't need a bailout.

Ford's product mix and quality are both improved over previous years.
We can finally see some of the great overseas models here in the US.
Igor, a frequent commentor here and an avid Ford fanatic, has left comments saying that we can expect the Kuga as the replacement of the Escape and even gives guesses on powertrains. He also has words on Mustang and EcoBoost. Normally I would consider such comments to be just wishful thinking, but he's been guessing very well, if it is guessing.

So, Ford looks like a viable proposition moving forward. And what about MyFordDreams?
Well, I've been dealing with a lot of personal issues over the last year and I'm feeling that I may actually be able to get back in the game. I'll never bee AutoBlog or Jalopnik, but I'll be getting back into the swing of things soon.

I've had many interested parties try and contact me about advertising on the blog. If anyone is interested in sending me a proposal, they can email me at myforddreams@aol.com or xltoffroad@aol.com I had been reulctant in the past, but as The Auto Prophet recently said, it won't make me rich, but it could pay for a new camera or other blog related expense.

I'd appreciate your patience as I go and fix links on the side and clear house. Tags/labels will be used from now on.

It always comes back to the lack of IRS for me

I've been seeing a lot of photos and now reviews of the new 2010 Mustang and of course the SVT Shelby GT500 lately and while everything is written in glowing terms, it always comes back to the lack of an IRS for me.



I don't care how great the new Mustang is, and I'm sure it is, at this time, there is no excuse for the lack of an independant rear suspension, none at all. For years I've read that it would be too expensive or that an IRS couldn't handle the power. Tell that to Chrysler, Chevrolet, BMW, Mercedes and Hyundai! Enough is enough!



The Mustang has been the lone Pony Car for a number of years now, since Chevrolet stopped making the Camaro, but the Camaro is back and so is the Chalenger. And both of them have independant rear suspensions. Sure, they're more expensive than the Mustang, but how about the Hyundai Genesis Coupe? That starts at the same base price the Mustang and that has IRS.

How about the power? Well, Ford sells the Australian Ford Falcon with an IRS and as much horsepower as the Mustang if not more in the FPV versions. Camaro, Challenger and even the Hyundai, all have more power available than the Mustang GT's 320 and they have IRS.

The excuses have worn thin. So, while I love the Mustang, I see huge chances for improvement.
Don't even get me started on the 4.0 SOHC V6!

I'm certain there's a new Ford in My future, but could it be a Hybrid?

Seeing Alan Mulally the CEO of Ford drive the Fusion Hybrid to DC recently and then reading reviews like the one linked in the title from Left Lane News, I've been thinking a Hybrid, especially this one would make so much sense for me. I know I've said before that Hybrids don't make sense for many folks, that have long commutes and don't live in urban areas. But I don't have a long commute and I live in a suburban area. And the improvement the Fusion Hybrid has over past offerings is that it operates on Electric up to 40 mph. Combine that with the 38 MPG city rating and I'm set! I've always liked the Fusion and my driving habits are a perfect match with this car. But can I drive a Hybrid?

I like to shift for myself. My Ranger and Mazda3 are both Manual. And then there's the 4 door sedan thing. I'm weird I guess, I don't really find 4 door sedans useful. My Ranger, well that's just tons of fun and can get through any weather. The Mazda3 is nimble, fun and because it's a 5 door it's versatile. So, what do I do? Ultimately I'd like to go from 2 great vehicles to just 1.

Maybe? Ford Kuga with the EcoBoost 2.0 I-4, 6 speed Manual and All Wheel Drive?

Or should I grow up and let the Fusion shift for me? I'm torn, but at least I'm torn between Fords. Conflicting "dreams" but FordDreams just the same........

I've got a couple of years til I'm buying again.

Ford cutting NASCAR budget by 20%, maybe they should cut it to 20%, what do they get for the dollars? What do we get?

In the title, is an Autoblog piece on Chrysler not backing out of NASCAR and it mentions that Ford has cut their support by 20%. I've had issues with NASCAR for a long time. I mean what does Ford get from their investment? Or more importantly, what do we get? Take a look at the 2 "Fusions" above. The top is one of the "Car Of Tomorrow" that is a Fusion only because of the stickers. The bottom is the production car. Do you really think people buy a Fusion because of NASCAR? Doubtfully.

In the early days it was simple, win on Sunday, sell on Monday! The cars were production based. That's why it was called Stock Car racing! And there was mutual benefit to the auto makers and the racers. Manufacturers learned through racing how to improve reliability and safety. There was a true symbiotic relationship between the two.

Even later when the cars were less "stock" this relationship existed. Manufacturers used racing as a form of testing that still improved the road going versions. And of course the marketing ties were obvious. You could buy a car that looked very close to what was being raced. But what about now?

What do these 2 Fusions have in common? What do I get out of NASCAR?

The production Ford Fusion is a great 4 door midsize sedan, with a compitent chassis and selection of powertrains. The NASCAR version is a tube chassis and composite body in the shape of a 2 door coupe. Production comes with front or all wheel drive and either 4 or 6 cylinder engines. NASCAR? Rear wheel drive, Carburated V-8. When was the last Carberator used in a production car? 1990? So, what development are we getting from NASCAR?

As for Marketing, it could be argued that the truck series is "relevant", but barely.

The V8 engines used in Production vehicls are Overhead Cam Multi Valve technical beauties.

The V8 engines used in NASCAR? Overhead Valve Pushrod engines, really nice, but not cutting edge by production standards.

So, in my opinion Ford and GM and Chrysler would be better served by cutting their NASCAR budgets out. The bang for the buck isn't there.

From what I've seen on TV they'd be better supporting professional wrestling.

Or God forbid, American Idol? Go Ford?

End of Days? Thankfully not for Ford

I've been away a long time, don't expect many folks to still be reading this blog, but what the hell. With what seems like the end of days I was at least comforted to know that Ford feels they can survivie. As noted by Mulally himself in the press release at AutoBlog ( linked in title).

With all the gloom and doom, there is hope on the horizon, there are products that folks will want to buy, that will get better economy and can be competative.

I've had my own personal issues to deal with and backed away from blogging. For a while there I really wasn't following any news. So I've been happy to read about the new Ford Fusion Hybrid, the prospect of EcoBoost 2.0 engines coming into the line and of course the reality of Ford's "World Car" finally.

It's been a tough year for everyone, and the next year is going to be tough also. But 2010 is a chance for all of us to recover, prosper and grow. Is it time to "Dream" again? Maybe finally it is.

For those that have commented lately, I just moderated, so they should be there. For those looking to advertise on My blogs, sorry, I'm not that active, you wouldn't get your money's worth and I've decided not to go that route anyway.

While I respect my fellow bloggers that have ads, I don't need the pennies.

MyFordDreams has always been my personal views, I'm not a team, it's just me. And if I "Dream" again, it will be just the same.

If Ford sells one of these, I'll buy it

I love Ford, but I'm not loving what's out in the showrooms now. Well, I like the Fusion, and of course the Mustang. But if I was looking to replace my Mazda 3 now, I'd want something I can't get right now. I'd want the Kuga! I'll take mine with either a 2.0 EcoBoost or TDI. Oh, don't forget the 6 speed manual trans.

I'd consider the Mondeo with either of those powertrains also.

I need a 5 door or CUV wagon. The Reflex and Fiesta sound good on paper, but I want something that 4 adults can ride in comfort and that we can take on vacation with all our crap.

I also want fuel economy that matches or beats the 30 MPG I get from my 3.

Ford, you have until the spring of 2011 to get me what I want. Are you interested in keeping my business? Or do I have to change my "Dreams" ?

Jalopnik has updated FoMoCo Aussie Falcon/Mustang rumors...

Jalopnik has a piece ( linked in title ) about the latest resurgance of rumors that Ford will use the Australian Ford Falcon as the base for the next Mustang and other rear wheel drive vehicles like the Interceptor. Nothing really earth shattering here, rumors like this have been floating around the net for quite a while. Jalopnik refers to an article in the Detroit News by Bryce Hoffman.
With the emergence of real competition from Hyundai, Chrysler and GM, all with IRS as oposed to the Mustangs live axle, this is something that has been common sense to everyone. Hell I've written about this so often I'm not even going to bother linking to past posts, it would take too long.

The Aussie Falcon just got a redo, but has had the Control Blade IRS for several years. The currency situation makes it expensive to import the cars to the United States, more so that when I suggested it several years ago. But the Detroit News article says they're moving "development" to the US, not importing actual units. The chassis would be developed here in the US, used for the future Australian Falcon, new Mustang and Ford and Lincoln branded sedans. No mention of Mercury there? As Jalopnik points out that's a glaring omission.

A new Mustang and a new Rear Wheel Drive sedan for Lincoln and Ford is good news.

But the artilce says it will be 4 years until they reach market, will that be soon enough?
And what about CAFE requirements? I've said before that the 2.0 EcoBoost I4 should go in the Mustang as the base motor, but how about the Sedans? Well, FoMoCo has the direct injection V6 for them. I'm not sure a V8 is even needed, except for top of the line showcase models.

What about Mercury? Well, I've said before that Mercury should be reimagined as an outlet for Ford Import models like the Mondeo. The Fusion does well for Ford, but as nice as the Milan is and it's sharp, maybe a premium could be charged for the imported Mondeo? I know that the next Mondeo and Fusion should, according to what I've read online, be based on the same platform, but until then, give Mercury dealers something unique.

How about the Ford Kuga as the next Mercury Mariner? Until these platforms are under a US Ford product, use Mercury to bring them here and that can justify the premium prices.

Just my 2 cents.