I broke down and did it. Bought a 2001 Volkswagon Jetta TDI (Diesel) last week. I wanted a diesel so I have the option of running Bio, but more importantly I needed great mileage as I took a new job with a death commute.
First impression is it's a nice little car. The 1.9L Turbo diesel can scoot right along, easily cruising 70+ maintaining speed uphill. It's got plenty of power for getting up to speed and merging on the freeway.
Overall, it's cramped. For me to be comfortable I have have to have the seat all the way back. This leaves literally no leg room in the backseat, also creates a problem with the baby carseat. I tried sitting in the back seat, and forget it. I'm too tall. We did test drive a brand new one for kicks, and it seemed to have a little more room in back.
After the first day, I topped off and it pulled 44mpg. The second tank I pulled a solid 38 mpg with around town driving. 3rd tank will be about the same....a/c blasting!
Filling up still sucks, but $39 beat the hell out of the $90 it would have cost to drive the exploder, or the $121 to drive the bronco!
I definately feel a sense of freedom again. I can load up the family and go without breaking the bank. I just wish it was 4wd!
For those with excel, I made this little spreadsheet to compare fuel costs.
http://www.broncoii4x4.com/bb/fueleconomy.xls
Here is a good site for looking up fuel economy on different vehicles.
http://www.fueleconomy.gov/
edit: ooops..... accidently deleted the first thread. Doh!@
I guess you can ignore the Car post I left ya.
