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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 1 to 7 of 7. This is the beginning of the thread.
Posted by Sarah T. on January 25, 2006, at 1:29:06
Hi. Recently I read about so-called "clones" that are supposed to be exactly the same as a particular car make and model, but they are made by another company. For example, the Pontiac Vibe is supposed to be exactly the same as a particular type of Toyota wagon, but it's less expensive because it's a Pontiac rather than a Toyota.
Do any of you know about these "clones"? Are they really just as good as the cars they're modeled after? Do any of you have a "cloned car"?
I'm going to be looking for a new used car soon, and I'd like to get a Toyota, but they are so expensive. Some of the seven and eight-year-old Toyotas listed in the paper are still close to $10,000!!! That's outrageous! So, if you're selling a Toyota, I guess it's true that they retain their resale value. But for the buyers, it's all quite daunting.
Posted by wildcard11 on January 25, 2006, at 9:57:43
In reply to Question about cars, posted by Sarah T. on January 25, 2006, at 1:29:06
hmmm~that's a new one on me but could be true. have you googled it? i would think that there has to be some difference though....????? Good luck!
Posted by Tabitha on January 25, 2006, at 11:33:49
In reply to Question about cars, posted by Sarah T. on January 25, 2006, at 1:29:06
I'd be sure to look up the 'reliability' and 'owner satisfaction' ratings on the clone. Toyotas are really great in that respect. American cars tend to need a lot more trips to the repair shop, even for new ones.
Posted by Maynerd on January 25, 2006, at 14:24:48
In reply to Question about cars, posted by Sarah T. on January 25, 2006, at 1:29:06
Not sure about cloned cars exactly, but do know something about cars in general. While people tend to pay attention to the looks and accessories when evaluating cars, these things are superficial features in reality.
When comparing cars you need to evaluate the engine for reliabilty and efficiency ratings. Does the clone have the same make and model engine in other words. This goes the same for other VERY important features such as brakes, transmission, and so on. It is in these areas that the car manufacturers will sometimes use cheaper versions to cut costs, all because the typical consumer pays attention to the color, style of car, and what sort of stereo is inside.
Posted by Phillipa on January 25, 2006, at 17:35:55
In reply to Re: Question about cars, posted by Maynerd on January 25, 2006, at 14:24:48
New Honda Accord every time for me!!!! Fondly, Phillipa
Posted by LegWarmers on January 25, 2006, at 22:38:47
In reply to Re: Question about cars, posted by Maynerd on January 25, 2006, at 14:24:48
> all because the typical consumer pays attention to the color, style of car, and what sort of stereo is inside.
yeah, stereo and color are important and luggage space ;)
you're right though, I'd be careful buying a clone
Posted by Sarah T. on January 27, 2006, at 2:49:27
In reply to Question about cars, posted by Sarah T. on January 25, 2006, at 1:29:06
Hi. Thanks to everyone for your replies. I did read more about the Pontiac Vibe, and it got very good ratings. It's "twin" is the Toyota Matrix.
Although I used the word "clone," I'm uncertain whether "clone" or "twin" is the correct term.
I still have a lot more research to do. Buying a used car seems much more difficult than buying a new car. Then, I can't help but think, "In this day and age, with the economy the way it is, why would anyone be getting rid of a car unless there's something wrong with it?"
This is the end of the thread.
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