well I've had my SSB for the huuuuge period of 5 days now and thought I'd jot down a few impressions (both good and bad)
I parked it in a train station car-park yesterday and was amazed at how small this is - it feels a lot bigger (in a positive sense rather than it's unwieldy)
obviously the exterior looks are unique and really set us apart from most (all?) other modern cars... though it has to be said that there are design elelments taken from other cars old and new, as an example the hatch and flanks from the rear (narrow and long) for some reason puts me in mind of an e-type
and it has been mentioned before that the flanks are not entirely disimilar to the Aston DB9
The interior really is a lovely place to be where everything seems to fit well and have a reassuring solidity about them. For better or worse the dials are quite 'retro' in their design and the seats are generally comfortable and very adjustable. The doors/tailgate shut with a lovely, meaty 'thunk'. The slushbox shifts quite well and the bonus is the tiptronic should you want it
.
I have to admit that I was facing the stereo with some trepidation given the negativity I'd read about it but I have to say that the sound quality is very good with good levels of base (my prefered taste is rock... or should I say rawwwk!) - that being said it still has to go since there is no mp3 compatibility
performance in a straight line is acceptable rather than great (though in fairness I am comparing it to my old 2000 F150 Lightning) but the road-holding seems to be very good, and despite the hard ride it never seems harsh... the steering is also not as bad as I had read, and I really like the fact it is 'heavy'. Fuel economy in my eyes is very good (again bear in mind my previous ride was the Lightning!!!)
the trunk (boot) is deceptively big and can easily accodate the weeks shopping - and therefore I'd guess enough to have a week away with mrs waylander
now the less good things...
performance - nothing that an LS series engine from GM wouldn't solve (and it looks like it'd fit
)
noise - there's just not enough of it, it's just too "civilised"
stereo - lack mp3 compatibility
steering wheel centre - just looks big 'n' bulky
Oh and to cap it all off - it's FUN!!!!
Any other newbie thoughts?