Thanks to everyone who offered their advice on my options dilemma, i.e.
2WD/4WD, PT/FT, ABS, lmt slip, bucket seats, etc. Here's an update:
After some effort the dealer I'm working with found a truck with almost all
the options I wanted and with not too, too many extras. I had to give up
on 4-wheel ABS, but we did find one with FT 4WD, limited slip differential
and even bucket seats!
I had pretty much decided I didn't need bucket seats (now that I got 'em I
sure hope I like 'em!) but what I was really after is the center console
since I always wished I had one in my van and I don't really need the extra
front seat. It will hopefully give me more room to fit things like my ham
radio and other odds and ends.
As for the 2WD/4WD FT/PT dilemma, I think the FT 4WD is a better match for
the kind of driving we have in Boston. I commute through Harvard Square
daily so I am totally familiar with the "war zone" effect. There is just
no place to put the snow, so when there's a lot of it - it can get ugly! I
want a 4WD system I can use - from bare road to war zone and back again. I
put less priority on mileage because I just don't have to drive that far
anymore.
My van has rear only ABS and I don't think I've ever locked up the fronts
on it in five years of driving. I decided losing 4 wheel ABS was ok.
The truck has the standard rear axle ratio. Not sure why I would want the
3.92 since I don't plan to tow much of anything and it would also hurt the
mpg. I had the option to choose another truck that included this option
but I decided not to.
The extras include a rear window defroster and the upgraded Infinity
CD/cassette sound system with steering wheel controls. I didn't really
want to spend a lot of $ on an expensive radio since I don't even have one
now and I'm totally ok with that. (Yes, you read that right.) Oh well,
it'll be tough but somehow I'll just have to learn to live with
it (sound!) ;-)
Now I just have to wait patiently (right!) over the (very) LONG weekend
until the truck can be brought up from the dealer who has it. I'd go down
and check it out but it's all the way down the Cape and I don't think I
really want to go all the way down there on Mem Day weekend especially. So
I'll have to wait until next week when I go in to the local guy to
negotiate ... ;-)
Thanks again and wish me luck!
Val
(hopefully, soon to be QC owner!)
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