[MR2] New Car "do-dads"

[Steve]

I agree, abs does not decrease braking distance provided proper
technique is used.

I don't have it in my MR2, so I can't comment on the MR2 abs, but I have
driven cars with it. 

Seems like it could foster bad habits when it comes to panic stops, and
could really catch someone off guard if they were used to having abs,
and drove a car without it. It is not the kind of thing you can make a
mental note of and expect to remember when that deer runs in front of
you.



On Mon, 2010-01-25 at 19:44 -0800, James wrote:
> On this topic, I'd be interested in hearing what you guys think about ABS.
> I'm inclined to include it on the "do-dad" list, my impression being that
> ABS is for those who don't know how to modulate brake pedal pressure.  I'd
> prefer to back off on my brake pedal when I feel the wheels locking up or
> start losing steering control, instead of feeling the pedal chattering under
> my foot.
> 
> James
> 
> 
> > From: <waynearndt at waynearndt.com>
> > Subject: Re: [MR2] MR2 news from Top Gear
> >
> > Not to mention all this high tech stuff takes the responsibility away from
> > the driver which in turn makes for a poor and untrained driver. Even the
> > most responsible driver can't be expected to be all that great when every
> > car they've ever driven has actually driven itself... And I agree with Bill
> > about forcing all the "do-dads" onto us with new cars. No matter how much
> > cash I have i my pocket, I cannot even buy a new car without may of these
> > "features". Pet peeves that I wish I could do without are airbags, Big
> > brother's Onstar and the cars with push start buttons rather than typical
> > keyed ignitions. As mentioned earlier, it makes that panic reaction less
> > likely to be figured out in time. I guess maybe I'm a Luddite too.... I
> > suppose that means I digress since I'm an IT guy.... The exceptions for me
> > that I've come to like are powered & heated side mirrors and keyless entry.
> > It's nice having the mirrors stay clear even when the outside temp is -20F.
> > And as long as I lock the car with the fob after closing all doors I will
> > never again lock myself out.
> >
> > -wayne
> > '91 Turbo T
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