In a message dated 97-08-13 18:21:43 EDT, gt0003a@prism.gatech.edu (Jurgen
Hartwig) writes:
> The MGs endearing characteristics are in it's looks, handling, and small
> engine. If you have a decently tuned engine and your aren't interested in
> drag racing one of those plastic cars of modern years, then the 4 banger
> should suffice. You know the V-8,10 is only good when you peel your tires
> at the red light. and for doing the twisties and back roads, it's more of
> a hindrance than anything else.
Ok, Ok, I can sorta agree. But, I also can't see too many people enjoying
their little 1.8 when I-95 traffic blows by them at upwards of 85mph. There
are ways of subtly installing a big engine that could compete when it needed
to - Like when a big rig puts on his turn signal to change lanes while you're
still in it. I feel that the MGB was a sucessful touring car in it's day
because there were no super highways that you could legally travel 70mph on.
(On I-95 in North Carolina there are some sections posted at 70.) Nowadays,
when I travel this modern nightmare, I_rarely_see any LBC's. Why? Imagine
that tractor trailer again. My little S-10 has to work it's 2.5 4-banger
butt off just to keep up with a Nissan Altima. Cars nowadays are geared for
comfortable touring of American highways. BMW's are like that. If I had a
nickel for every 328i that blows by me on a typical trip up 95, I'd go to
England to buy a new MGF!
My point is this: Give the car a chance in the American market. I'd like to
think that a new MG with a 1.8 would be OK on 95. However, with more and
more cars coming factory with V-6's and 8's, a little engine like that
wouldn't stand a chance on a long tour on a major highway. Compared to other
new cars, the new MG would be considered a dog, and at the worst, nothing
more than a great handling Geo convertible. Many car buyers want a little
muscle with their ride. Need proof? Look at the new Pontiac Bondovilles.
"Luxury with an attitude. "One of the most powerful luxury cars in it's
class." Want more proof of a need for power? Three letters for you: S H O.
I'm not condoning making a Chevy Super Sport with an MG emblem. I do not
like to see hood scoupes or blowers. I'm not talking about fat rear tires or
tubbed out wheel wells. I would not want an MGA with a Ford V-8. A perfect
example of keeping with the original theme while moving to feed a need for
speed would be a GMC Typhoon. Still just like a GMC truck, not lowered or
tubbed. You can still haul stuff in the bed, and you can also haul some ass
when you need to. If Plymouth can produce a "Sport" minivan, they can also
produce a V-8 or 10 powered MG that handles. I swear to you, the car can
still have precise steering. Hell, we can even make the 1.8 standard and
give the option of more power. Personally, I know what I'd rather have
powering my MG when a big rig pulls into my lane.
~Mike Lishego
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