Rented a Mazda 3 today

[TD]

Originally Posted by bonoboy

but you'd have to do that every year

So a wheel tire set will pay for 7+ years worth of rentals. I'm not keeping the car that long.

[FC]

Originally Posted by TD

So a wheel tire set will pay for 7+ years worth of rentals. I'm not keeping the car that long.

Unless you are fortunate enough to have a rental place nearby, getting the car and returning it can be a huge hassle.

[blee]

The Mazda 3 is fun car in need of more power. Sort of like my Focus, only not as tightly wound.

[wdc330i]

Originally Posted by mbr129

Unless you are fortunate enough to have a rental place nearby, getting the car and returning it can be a huge hassle.

Yes, and I usually score some awful loaner from Enterprise--a pickup truck or minivan with terrible handling and worse brakes.

[GregE_325]

The Mazda 3 isn't a bad car for what it is. I have had mine now for a little over 5 months, and have no major complaints. I got the S model, with the bigger engine and sports suspension. I also have leather, xenons, side and curtain airbags, and the navigation system. All for $20k.

Even though I generally don't like front drivers, this one is okay. And the shifter is pretty decent, even though the clutch really should have a smoother engagement. Or maybe it's just me. :smile:

Now if I could just fine the perfect E30 325is to play with, then I'd be set.....


-- Greg

[TD]

Again, FOR ME, I am a short walk from an Enterprise location (although they always volunteer to pick me up - I decline). And I have not had an especially bad rental in many years (I recall one time, years ago, the Enterprise counter at VOB BMW stuck me with a Buick Skylark back when the Skylark had this most ridiculous beak for a front end - Hands down, that was the worst car I've ever driven.)

[Roadstergal]

Originally Posted by GregE_325

even though the clutch really should have a smoother engagement. Or maybe it's just me.

I think it's BMW. All of the stock BMW clutches I've tried have had a rather long, vague disengagement point. I prefer grabby clutches; when you're trying to go fast, a slow-transition clutch is frustrating.

[GregE_325]

Originally Posted by Roadstergal

I think it's BMW. All of the stock BMW clutches I've tried have had a rather long, vague disengagement point. I prefer grabby clutches; when you're trying to go fast, a slow-transition clutch is frustrating.

It's really not that bad, but I guess I'm comparing it to a lot of the Honda manuals that I've owned, and it's just not quite as precise. I've tried to feather it a bit more than I normally would, just to keep the passengers heads from snapping back. I do like to launch it with some enthusiasm. It's just fine for hammering second through fifth, but that initial start in first can be a problem, especially when it's cold. So sometimes, I'll just start in second gear until things warm up.
You are right, it is very different from a BMW clutch. But I can live with it. The worst thing that I can say about the clutch is that in order to start the car, the pedal has to be planted on the floor. Any less, and the nanny switch won't let the car start.

[Rob]

Originally Posted by Roadstergal

I think it's BMW. All of the stock BMW clutches I've tried have had a rather long, vague disengagement point. I prefer grabby clutches; when you're trying to go fast, a slow-transition clutch is frustrating.

If you think the BMW clutches are bad (some of them are), you should try the clutch in the Volvo. Sure, it's a full size station wagon and won't really go fast no matter what you do, but the clutch is horrible. Better than an automatic, but still horrible.

[JST]

Originally Posted by Roadstergal

I think it's BMW. All of the stock BMW clutches I've tried have had a rather long, vague disengagement point. I prefer grabby clutches; when you're trying to go fast, a slow-transition clutch is frustrating.

Grabby clutches are good for going fast, but they are a PITA in stop-and-go driving, especially in a car like the M3 that has a lot of driveline lash.