Car Crash Tests

[Table 5]

That's a very compeling article, ericschand.

thought this was sorta funny, since this quote is probably a basis for a half a dozen SUV threads on this forum....

According to Bradsher, internal industry market research concluded that S.U.V.s tend to be bought by people who are insecure, vain, self-centered, and self-absorbed, who are frequently nervous about their marriages, and who lack confidence in their driving skills.

[ken0042]

I also know a few people who have bought SUVs because they wanted all the features of a minivan, but didn't want the stigma that goes with it.

[Ironhorse]

Originally Posted by ericschand

http://www.gladwell.com/2004/2004_01_12_a_suv.html

Another article on cars and safety. Very interesting read.
Busts numerous myths.

Interesting to read. However, after about half the article, I felt is was written by a Consumer Reports staffer.

We do have a full sized SUV, but not for the reasons mentioned in article; we needed a full sized truck frame & drivetrain to pull our travel trailer. It was either that or buy a pickup and a mini-van, and own 3 vehicles . But I certainly don't have any illusions about it being much safer than a regular car.

[ericschand]

Originally Posted by Ironhorse

Interesting to read. However, after about half the article, I felt is was written by a Consumer Reports staffer.

We do have a full sized SUV, but not for the reasons mentioned in article; we needed a full sized truck frame & drivetrain to pull our travel trailer. It was either that or buy a pickup and a mini-van, and own 3 vehicles . But I certainly don't have any illusions about it being much safer than a regular car.

I think the overall point was that vehicle safety doesn't depend
on the size of the vehicle, and that consumers are deluding themselves
if they think so.

Even if you are safer, the article does make mention that keeping
control of your SUV/truck is much more difficult (although comparing
to a Porsche isn't valid, how about comparing to a minivan for handling?)

I don't think the article was aimed to discourage large truck use,
rather just giving info to keep you informed.

Since I don't know, are minivans not capable of towing trailers?
I see "normal" cars doing it, can a minivan not?

ers

[ken0042]

Originally Posted by ericschand

Since I don't know, are minivans not capable of towing trailers?
I see "normal" cars doing it, can a minivan not?

ers

A typical car will have a towing capacity of around 1500 lbs. A minivan will get you 2500-3000. A properly equiped truck will get you 4000-5000.

(These numbers are appoximate to give a general idea of course.)

As well, I wouldn't want to tow a 2400 lb trailer with a vehicle rated for 2500 lbs through the mountains. I would use a truck with at least 4000 lbs capactiy.

[nfotiu]

I read this study on driver death rates.

http://www.iihs.org/sr/pdfs/sr4204.pdf

Probably the fairest, and most all-encompassing stat.

Size does matter to some extent.

tiny cars look to be death traps.

Many SUV are amongst the lowest death rates.

German sedans and Lexus's seem to do very well. Most have Electronic stability control and side air bags, which seem to make a big difference.

Surprised that the Astro was number 1.

[Cube Inmate]

I should really trade in my death trap (Sunfire). Does anybody with nothing to live for want to buy a used car??

[firebug]

Originally Posted by nfotiu

I read this study on driver death rates.

http://www.iihs.org/sr/pdfs/sr4204.pdf

Probably the fairest, and most all-encompassing stat.

Size does matter to some extent.

tiny cars look to be death traps.

Many SUV are amongst the lowest death rates.

German sedans and Lexus's seem to do very well. Most have Electronic stability control and side air bags, which seem to make a big difference.

Surprised that the Astro was number 1.

From the same site:

http://www.iihs.org/sr/pdfs/sr4205.pdf

I bet you will drive home slower today, and wear your seat belt.

~Bug