Who here drives a hybrid? - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

aklim · #1 02-22-2011, 01:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BenzBob

Not sure why more people in the US don't look at the diesel alternative, as that would be my choice over hybrids. If you look at Europe, about 50% of vehicles are diesel.

I do have a diesel alternative and I got it only because I was doing a lot of long distance travel of 150-200 miles a day. Today, if I had to get another vehicle, it sure as hell won't be a diesel since my commute is much shorter regardless of what Europe does, wants to do or doesn't do.

1. Fuel price can fluctuate by up to 10 cents from place to place. Gas price is more stable.

2. Fuel stinks and you have to wear gloves. No such issue with gas.

3. Second class citizen at the pump. So few pumps with diesel and so many more with gas and some azzhat blocking your pump.

4. Pump areas are usually dirty including the nozzle. See #2

5. Diesel has gelling issues when it gets too cold.

6. Every fuel station sells gas. Not ever station sells diesel.

75Sv1 · #2 02-22-2011, 01:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by aklim

I do have a diesel alternative and I got it only because I was doing a lot of long distance travel of 150-200 miles a day. Today, if I had to get another vehicle, it sure as hell won't be a diesel since my commute is much shorter regardless of what Europe does, wants to do or doesn't do.

1. Fuel price can fluctuate by up to 10 cents from place to place. Gas price is more stable.

2. Fuel stinks and you have to wear gloves. No such issue with gas.

3. Second class citizen at the pump. So few pumps with diesel and so many more with gas and some azzhat blocking your pump.

4. Pump areas are usually dirty including the nozzle. See #2

5. Diesel has gelling issues when it gets too cold.

6. Every fuel station sells gas. Not ever station sells diesel.

Only Siths deal in absolutes, Darth Aklim. I pass by a fuel station along I-70 in PA. It only list the price of diesel. I think it only sells to semi-trucks.
As for the milage claim of 70 mpg, I don't trust the electronic fuel monitors. So, fill up your tank. Then drive it. Record the miles and fill up. Divide miles driven by the gallons to fill it up.
I do know someone with one of the early Insites. He does claim 65 mpg or so. The car does look very aerodynamic. So, I am not discounting, that it can/does get this milage. Also, a variant of the Geo Metro, the Pontiac Fire Fly was suppose to get 65 mpg or so.
Tom

jcyuhn · #3 02-22-2011, 01:39 PM

A friend of mine has had a couple of first-gen Insights, both 5-speed and CVT. He has never seen 70MPG highway. Mid 60s, yes, but not 70.

There is a very simple reason why demand for that car was so low. It isn't very useful as transportation. It's a small 2 seater with very limited luggage space. Essentially, you can carry yourself and a briefcase, that's about it.