Ahh, isn't the internet great? Any teenager with a magazine subscription can become an internet guru on topics they've "researched". One of the funniest thing to read is two teenagers on a car forum arguing over which is a better car, each with a magazine article or website to support their opinions. What's really funny is that they all truly believe 100% that they know what they're talking about, and they have proof in writing to back them up, all the while having never actually driven any of the cars in question. And if one of them does happen to take a car for a test drive around the block, watch out. They're now "qualified" to give their opinions on performance and handling, using phrases like tossable, understeer and oversteer, and so forth.
I already know it's pointless to continue arguing, but what the heck, I'm bored right now. I'm still wondering if you've actually DRIVEN any cars. I'd really like to know how you can tell a car engine is of good quality. By the way it looks? How it tastes? That's some special talent.
Also, I'd like to know how, (to plaugiarize a term I heard) in your "Nickelodeon" economics, does your theory hold up in a global economy?
Shall we ask the 30,000 Ford employees who were layed off and whose jobs were outsourced to Mexico and Canada? What about the Toyota or Hyundai employees at their new US plants? I guess supporting an American (sounding) company is better than actually supporting American workers? Billy Ford congratulates you, he can now continue to vacation all over the world, but I bet a lot of ex-Ford employees probably aren't so happy.
And not to confuse the issue, but in your other topic, how does buying a used car IN AMERICA have any effect on the trade deficit with foreign countries? You aren't planning on importing an "American POS" from overseas are you?
And I can assume that I was right when I said your father probably shares your feelings on this issue? It's great that you have respect for him, that's about all I have to say.
I should probably keep quiet now, I know I look foolish going up against this 16 year old automotive wizard. The ironic thing is, I have nothing against American car companies. I currently own a domestic made vehicle, and in my family, we've probably owned more domestic vehicles than imports. Will I ever buy another one? Probably, if I ever see something I like, but right now nothing fits my needs. I believe 100% in supporting America, but not by blind patriotism and government legislation. If anything, that behavior inherently contradicts the American idea of free trade and capitalism. I would love to buy American made products, but not because they're made in the U.S. but because they're the best available. Sympathy purchases dont' help anyone.
[Edit] I just wanted to ask, since you mentioned the Ford Fusion. Do you know where the Fusion is manufactured? Where do you think the money's flowing from the purchase of that car?
To the original poster, I forgot to say congrats on your new purchase. You've made a good decision. I believe Hyundai has already caught up to Honda in terms of reliability, it's a good thing you purchased before their prices caught up as well.