Brent P Wrote:
Actually, some of the initial problems, like the lug nuts coming off, were from trying to combat rust issues by using a newly supplied anti-sieze that let the lug nuts spontaneously loosen. The wheel bearing issue was from teh rubber from teh German supplier deteriorating in teh salt used in teh winter in much of the US northeast. There was an issue with an A pillar trim clip and a defect in the Sony supplied subwoofer. And both of the last two were listed under "safety defects" but had nothing to do with the reliability of the cars.
I understand about the lack of marketing. I owned a '99 SVT Contour (the 5 speed, 200 hp version similar to the European ST200 model). Absolutely stellar car with absolutely NO marketing other than a few enthusaist rag road tests.
As for fog lights, actual fog lights won't be glaring due to their low, wide dispersal pattern. And for many cars, they actually allow for clearer vision to the close sides even without fog (plus they make you more visible in dusk or rainy conditions, much like DRL's are supposed to). Driving lights would be glaring, as they are supposed to reach farther.
And if you think US drivers are bad (and many are) don't try driving (or parking) in Paris... ;)
-- Chris V ------------------------------------------------------------------------
