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I'm pondering the various options available on the 2004 Corolla, as I think I've settled on that model. I'm basically seeing what combinations I could do, whether it would make more sense economically to go for the S or the LE, bla bla. Most of the more cosmetic ones I need to find out what, exactly, they are or look like before I could tell if I want them or not.
The main I'm waffling on is the side airbags. They're not a trivial cost (~$200) and I don't know whether I really want them or need them. Anyone have any sites/references/experiences that would sway me in either direction?
I'm also trying to make the same decision on cruise control (it's the same price, actually). I find I have to constantly adjust my speed when I drive, so cruise control wouldn't be able to do its thing, and I've never wished for it. But then again, as I expect to own the car for ten years at least, the day might come that I'd want to use it, and be annoyed that I hadn't bought it. So I don't know.
I also wish I knew what they meant by "heavy-duty heater", which I can only get by buying a certain package (although it's a relatively cheap one). Is that something I might be glad I bought when I take this car to Canada with me, or would the regular one be just fine? I have the feeling Toyota is not going to be willing or able to provide me with BTU ratings, here. :)
The main I'm waffling on is the side airbags. They're not a trivial cost (~$200) and I don't know whether I really want them or need them. Anyone have any sites/references/experiences that would sway me in either direction?
I'm also trying to make the same decision on cruise control (it's the same price, actually). I find I have to constantly adjust my speed when I drive, so cruise control wouldn't be able to do its thing, and I've never wished for it. But then again, as I expect to own the car for ten years at least, the day might come that I'd want to use it, and be annoyed that I hadn't bought it. So I don't know.
I also wish I knew what they meant by "heavy-duty heater", which I can only get by buying a certain package (although it's a relatively cheap one). Is that something I might be glad I bought when I take this car to Canada with me, or would the regular one be just fine? I have the feeling Toyota is not going to be willing or able to provide me with BTU ratings, here. :)
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Date: Mar. 25th, 2004 09:32 am (UTC)From:As for airbags, I personally would never go for them, but that's mostly because when I sit in the driver's seat of a car I am too close to the airbags and thus airbags make it more dangerous. Airbags are "supposed to" make the cars safer, but if you have the lap and shoulder belts, and generally don't drive like a maniac, I don't think airbags are all that necessary. They also can be very dangerous.. good choice on Toyota! I'd *strongly* recommend the prius, but I know that in cold weather its advantages aren't as noticeable, and they are more expensive..
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Date: Mar. 25th, 2004 12:24 pm (UTC)From:I considered this option, but discarded it for several reasons:
1) One can't carry one's credit history cross-border, thus, it would be impossible for me to get the car loan for quite a while...
2)...which is probably just as well, because I don't expect to have an income that could support living expenses AND a car payment for quite a while...
3)...but my current car isn't likely to last, at least not and still be really reliable, for those next, say, five years...
4)...and since I'll be far from home which is always where we've done our own car repair, to avoid having to spend big amounts to keep my current car running...
...we thought it best just to have me have a new car before I go.
As for airbags, I personally would never go for them, but that's mostly because when I sit in the driver's seat of a car I am too close to the airbags and thus airbags make it more dangerous.
Front airbags are standard. They are on almost everything these days. No choice there, whether they're dangerous or not (I don't sit all that close to the wheel, although I am fairly short). Side airbags are mounted above the windows (apparently) and are meant to deploy in the event of a side impact so you don't whack your head against the door frame or window.
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Date: Mar. 25th, 2004 02:49 pm (UTC)From:I didn't know they made front air bags standard, but I did know that they make side airbags. Side curtain and airbags, and side something or other airbags. But because I already know that front airbags are dangerous for me, I would assume that the same holds true for side airbags as well, and that they can be dangerous. The side curtain airbags are the ones that protects you from smashing your head into the window. I've no idea how effective they are... I'm sorry:/