Automotive Options

Old timers will remember the process of optioning-out a new car. There was, for example a $7.83 right-side mirror as well as radio, heater, and tinted windows. Gradually those things got combined into "packages" of options that went together, lessening the impact of optioning. Today, factory options, except for the really exotic, can be nearly extinct. Still, I was recently asked what options were on our new Fit.

There were "dealer-installed" options available, like a $250 cargo net for the rear [what?]. But as it came from the factory, the car we bought had no options at all. It still included air conditioning, power everything except seats but including mirrors -- even the right-outside, and a sound system that plays music right off a computer thumb-drive. But the Base [as opposed to the Sport] Fit, includes all the factory "options" that the average buyer wants or needs. This approach probably reduces overall costs for everyone, while increasing customer satisfaction and dealer effeciency. And, it is something I am in favor of.


2012 Honda Fit - Specifications - Official Site


See full features and specs of the 2012 Honda Fit at the Official Honda Website. View engineering, dimensions, EPA mileage estimates and measurements specifications.

Honey, I shrunk the minivan.

We sold our beloved Honda Odyssey "Mesabi" and bought a new FIt in Vortex Blue Pearl. I guess we'll be calling her "Vortecca." One of the main reasons for the change was to have dingy in tow to Morty when we head out on an extended road trip.


2012 Honda Fit - Exterior Photo Gallery - Official Site


See pictures of the Honda Fit's exterior body. View the 2012 Fit exterior image gallery at the Official Honda Website.

Time Warp Ice Cream

Today was the inaugural road trip for the new Honda Fit. We went back in time to 1948 Zanesville, to partake of Tom's Icecream Bowl. Everything but the ketchup bottle was from the 50's including the portions. The tin roof sundae is truly memorable. Highly Recommended


Tom's Ice Cream Bowl


PHOTO GALLERY. See some of our history, and our fans and friends, in the Photos section of our website. Sample image. Sample image. Sample image. Have photos you would like to share with us? Feel free...

Selling a used car.

Can't wait to return to trading options on Tuesday. Such sweet work compared to trading cars. I have never worked so hard for so little return. You think you have a deal, and there is always just one more thing that of course would drive the agreed-to price down. So grateful to have a firm offer on the trade value from the dealer. It strengthens the bargaining position immeasurably. It may seem low, but compared to the selling effort it really isn't.

Pretty Good Craigslist Post

This ad resulted in a sale the same day posted with absolutely no other exposure.

From Mesabi

Even later update: To finalize the sale, the buyer got a used car review done at a Mr. Tire, and the car got "perfect marks." So the NTW assessment made 9 months ago was nothing more than a revenue opportunity. The brakes and struts are indeed just fine. Thank you Mr. Tire. Thanks for nothing, NTW.

Selling the Sizzle -- Car Photos

Just finished posting some photos for use in a Craigslist ad selling our mini van. Somewhat modeled on what I've seen car dealers do online. Just something else to share.



These were done just after returning home from dealing on the replacement and before any cleaning. Must say that plain photos online do generally look better than real life. Of course one big factor is that late afternoon light -- much better for camera work. And even more "of course" is that proper protocol calls for cleaning first then photographing.