Economy

Economy

Inspired by Herrick’s recent post, I thought I’d share some more NY economics of note. Having just purchased our "new" car. Pictured here at the family mechanic’s house (my father) all shined and ready to roll. This 1983 classic is a Chevy Citation with 2/55 air conditioning standard. It’s engine has 78,000 original miles, and a gentle used price of $300 (tires included) we count ourselves fortunate. We originally purchased it to replace our 1995 Toyota Corolla 4 door truck/sedan (as we use it to haul just about everything) but after passing mile marker 200,000 over 38,000+ miles ago, I figure it's good till 300K or more, who knows?

Now, I don’t suppose I’ll be the envy of the Joneses or those who prefer to sport the “new” hybrids vehicles on the market today for eco-coconscious consumers. Just that when you add the difference in MPG vs. the cost of a new hybrid + full coverage insurance + deprecation + new car maintenance – less any additional repair cost for an ‘older’ vehicle, sans the worry of the “first scratch”. I’d say we’re a wee bit a head of the game, especially since this one came complete with some rust & a dent. Now the one drawback, as I mentioned is the 2/55 air conditioning (as our “steed” has the older R-12 refrigerant and production of R12 ended December 31, 1995) so I’d be hard pressed to find the stuff these days. The 2/55 air equation works like this: “Roll down 2 windows – go 55 mph”. I suppose if need be I might try a design like this

Hey, if it’s hot enough – “Necessity, who is the mother of invention” ~Plato