What Should Mad Science Drive To Work? - Jalopnik Comments

Dr.Danger, Shogun of Jalopnik

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

NovaloadMissesPolar — Fri, 02 May 2008 22:45:41 EDT

I do 140 miles a day (until the house sells). Almost all of it is at 75 mph or so. The 98 Camry--don't laugh--has been doing this almost a year and a half with no on or off road failure. It just broke 101,000. It gets about 23 mph, better to 26 or so if I'm more conservative, it has AC, ABS, very comfy for size and not entirely ugly--it's the long, low one with rear wing for extra power! I run synthetic oil, probably a placebo, really, and I keep high end tires on it.
You have other toys to play with; the beater has to be 1) reliable/safe 2) comfortable and 3) economical.
Dude, it's a beater. Tart it up as you wish. Make it unique. But it's a beater.

NovaloadMissesPolar

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

something_unique_and_descriptive — Fri, 02 May 2008 21:54:01 EDT

A couple of options:

If you're willing to wade into Cali-DMV hell you could do a Se7en with a euro-Diesel. I mean they're able to get 30+ Mpg in heavy ass German sedans, in a Se7en breaking 40 shouldn't be a problem.

If you're willing to delay using your DD and spend a little time in PCH you could grab an old school British car (Triumph, MG, etc) and swap in a reliable japanese engine/electrics.

You could do the Miata option. Pull the convertible top out to save weight and get a hardtop so that no one jacks your stuff / cuts up your soft top / cuts the rear window (if it's a NA1). I'd also get the JDM "Roadster" badge but, that's just me... I mean what the hell is a "Miata", I know what a "Roadster" is but I'm pretty sure they just made "Miata" up.

Personally I'd go with a SW20 MR2. Loads of fun, Toyota reliability.

something_unique_and_descriptive

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

TRAMS_AM — Fri, 02 May 2008 21:33:03 EDT

@Mad_Science: Rhino Line the cart and your helmet. You might flip a few times when run over, but if you land cranium up you can keep on drivin'!

Part of your drive is on the 210? What's your route?

Git one of them RWD Starlets and put a turbo four in it.

TRAMS_AM

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

mwoeber — Fri, 02 May 2008 21:29:17 EDT

Everyone has been suggesting diesels, and I know they get better mpg, but around my parts (Gainesville, Fl) diesel will run you about $4.50 vs. $3.30 87 octane. The better mpg probably makes up for the extra cost per gallon of fuel but if prices are similar in SoCal it's worth considering. I don't really have anything new to bring to the game but I do like the idea of an EV 914 or some sort of lotus.

mwoeber

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Dr.Danger, Shogun of Jalopnik — Fri, 02 May 2008 20:32:02 EDT

@Froggmann: I like the converted 914 idea. That would make a really cool EV.

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Bumblebee — Fri, 02 May 2008 19:24:27 EDT

@AustinMiniMan: That was the gomini.com, but that website has since departed. C&D did an article about it that you can easily find it you search that website.

Bumblebee

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Bumblebee — Fri, 02 May 2008 19:17:46 EDT

@DSLPWR: Good answer. Here's a good thread with lotsa pictures for inspiration: [forums.vwvortex.com]

Bumblebee

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Euromobile — Fri, 02 May 2008 19:15:33 EDT

I don't know where you'd find one for sale and even if you did, I expect it would cost more than $15,000, but has sir considered a steam lorry? Don a flat cap, a boiler suit and old-school goggles before climbing behind the wheel and you'd look like a mad scientist for sure. Also, using a steam lorry (by the way, I read somewhere that some of the later models with pneumatic tyres can top 60mph) as a daily driver would earn you about a million Jalop-points.

Euromobile

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

TheTooth — Fri, 02 May 2008 19:05:43 EDT

@Bad Juju: So a kit frame is still registerable (is that a word?) as a 1960 Lotus? I didn't know that. I thought I would have to get in line with the couple hundred lucky people that get kit car registrations every year. I've clearly got to do some more investigating. Lotus Se7ven, here I come! :D

TheTooth

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

DSLPWR — Fri, 02 May 2008 18:35:14 EDT

$10k, eh?

Guess the Porsche 959 Electric Model is out...

[seattle.craigslist.org]

OK, final answer: Early 80's VW Caddy diesel. Restored. It's alternative, reliable, inexpensive (not cheap), highly economical, you'll have money left over for fuel, and it satisifies the -chero/-amino bent. No brainer. I win.

DSLPWR

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Bad Juju — Fri, 02 May 2008 18:18:39 EDT

Well, there's a few options for you.
Now, take $2k and go buy a 1.6L Miata to actually drive while you mull it over.

Bad Juju

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

DSLPWR — Fri, 02 May 2008 18:16:20 EDT

Don Dunklees Solar Scooter.

[www.gizmag.com]

DSLPWR

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Feds — Fri, 02 May 2008 17:57:09 EDT

@tenbeers:

Mine too. The autobox went south, I replaced it with a 5 speed and it made all the difference in the world. Felt like I took 1000 lbs off the front end, and yeah, she ROCKED off road.

@prndl: Let me know when you are ready to get rid of it.

Feds

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

damnElantra — Fri, 02 May 2008 17:52:13 EDT

@micturatedupon: honisty i think every one in socal feels the same strain. unless your one of those lucky bastards that live and work next to the red line or some such.

but for most of us it a choice between loving what you drive and paying out the ass in gas.

or hating your car and using you money for other things like... oh i dont know student loans

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

dohcspit — Fri, 02 May 2008 17:26:09 EDT

30 miles each way is within the range of a pretty cheap homebuilt electric, especially if you can charge some at work. In socal you can pick up a not too rusted, non-running, post smog LBC (MGB, midget, spitfire) for next to nothing.

dohcspit

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

petersterncan — Fri, 02 May 2008 17:02:12 EDT

The cheapest option though would be a bicycle... but 30 miles each way would likely translate into at least 4 hours of bike riding per day... a good idea if you plan on competing in Le Tour De France eventually... and after a while, you'd have legs that'd resemble tree trunks.

The problem with motorcycles/bicycles is a lack of weather protection and a total lack of any safety.

Electric cars are usually the next cheapest on a per mile basis... if you're willing to put up with the hassles most used ones have.

I suggest a Citicar/Commutacar like this one:
[cgi.ebay.com]

Faster than a bicycle... even an electric one... a little safer and you have some weather protection. Get some good deep cycle lead acid batteries and range should be fine as long as you can charge it at work... or keep a power generator on hand to charge it while at work.

You could also probably upgrade it to NiMH batteries, but that'll probably push the budget over $10,000, but it might be cheaper in the long run as they'll last longer because NiMH is better for deep discharges, even when compared to deep-cycle Lead Acid batteries.

And the only thing more dorky.. err... creative than this would be a Xebra:
[cgi.ebay.com]

And since that Xebra is a pickup version, just keep the generator in the bed running and keep it plugged in to extend your range as you drive.

For gasoline powered vehicles, check out this *Plymouth* pickup truck that looks Mitsubishi-based:
[cgi.ebay.com]

petersterncan

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

micturatedupon — Fri, 02 May 2008 17:02:00 EDT

Funny, I'm in the same dilemma as you, except I'm in the 909(eww, I know).

I want a rwd sports car like a crackhead needs a hit, so I decided on a Honda S2000, that is, until gas prices shot up.

I'm surprised no one's mentioned this, but be like Spinelli, and get a Toyota MR2 Spyder. They can be had around the LA area for $10-12k(sometimes less...) all day long, they're rwd, reliable as fuck, fairly quick, plenty of fun, and get 30-35, provided you don't think your Schumacher. Insurances rates are cheap too.

And, don't forget, you can drop the top on the nice days we've been having lately.

Only con: a wee bit gay looking. Not miata-esque gay, but still, youi better be comfortable in your masculinity. Also, mileage is still shy of CRX territory.

micturatedupon

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

tenbeers — Fri, 02 May 2008 16:48:26 EDT

@biminitwst: Shenanigans, there's no way two Fieros can coexist in the same dimension unless one of them has at least one headlight popped up.

It's SCIENCE.

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

biminitwst — Fri, 02 May 2008 16:36:34 EDT

Under $15K? How about $15 HUNDRED?
Ya gotta have some style, don't you?
[cgi.ebay.com]
[cgi.ebay.com]

biminitwst

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

tenbeers — Fri, 02 May 2008 16:31:54 EDT

@Feds: Heh, my first car was an '88 323. Boring gold paint, boring 4 doors, with the boring automatic and an equally boring tan/brown/beige/misc interior. Not bad looking overall though.

The 1.6L 4-banger made roughly 14 horsepower, but it did handle nicely with the 4 wheel independent suspension, and it worked surprisingly well offroad.

[i28.tinypic.com]
(not mine, but looks the same)

Dr.Danger, Shogun of Jalopnik

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

pryndyl has gone Welsh — Fri, 02 May 2008 16:19:01 EDT

@Feds: GTX is sitting in my driveway, but parts are getting rare. A/C still blows so cold I have to run it on low. Only returns 28mpg city or highway, though, needs a taller 5th gear.

pryndyl has gone Welsh

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Tyson — Fri, 02 May 2008 16:14:26 EDT

@Mad_Science: The electric 914 is one of the most common EV conversions done anywhere, I know of at least 2 in town here (Corvallis, Oregon) and its really a straightforward operation if you're using a DC motor. If you do go that way at all, [www.evparts.com] has a good FAQ with lots of info about EVs, and converting something, as well as being a store that'll sell you everything you need.

Tyson

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Dr.Danger, Shogun of Jalopnik — Fri, 02 May 2008 15:45:05 EDT

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Feds — Fri, 02 May 2008 15:41:18 EDT

Oh, and air cooled motors are not all that efficient. My stack of gas-crisis Hot VW magazines puts 30 mpgs as about tops for those motors.

Feds

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Paul Y. -- Now With More Sodium! — Fri, 02 May 2008 15:39:04 EDT

@akier: Building a diesel-electric sounds like a hoot, really.

If not diesel, I would recommend a GMC big-6 or Twin-Six, as they were often used as generator motors.

Sure, it's not frugal, but you'd probably be generating enough power to beat a funny car off the line.

Paul Y. -- Now With More Sodium!

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Feds — Fri, 02 May 2008 15:38:51 EDT

O.K, since no one has suggested it, I will proffer the pinacle of japan-o-boxes.

The 1988/1989 Mazda 323. Don't bother with the base models. Go straight for the LX. Alloy wheels, Air-con, manual crank sunroof...

These are quite nicely finished inside. Soft touch dash, fabric inserts on the doors, comfy 100-way adjustable seats...

Don't fall for the GTX either. Turbo + AWD = too much maintanance. Go with a 5-speed N/A car, and swap on a miata 16v. head if you want a little more power.

If only I hadn't Colin MacRae's mine into a snow bank hard enough to loose the rear subframe from the chassis...

Cop-invisible, 35-mpg-capable, great-handling, Timex-durable commuter car.

Feds

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

fisheater — Fri, 02 May 2008 15:32:43 EDT

My vote is a Subaru Brat. Then remove the "t", head down to the local frat, pop the t-tops/collar and tell everyone how rad your "bra" is.

fisheater

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Mad_Science — Fri, 02 May 2008 15:29:44 EDT

@vr6john: Dude...the effort that went into creating that must've been significant. If there's not an (un)official policy against image COTD, I nominate that.

@TRAMS_AM: Actually, no one said it. Something about driving a kart in the presence of 100,000lb semis (they run oversize stuff on the 210) has me cringing, though. They'd need a squeegee to collect my remains.

@UDMan and teargas: Thanks guys. Isn't vicarious car hunting fun? I wish I could get paid to do that.

914's not looking too terrible, being open-air and all. Non-AC enclosed vehicles would be hard to put up with during the 7 month >90° summer that I deal with.

The electric 914 kits are really really tempting. Like, perfect PCH tempting.

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

rektide — Fri, 02 May 2008 15:19:59 EDT

The W123 and W126's only make low 30's at best.

I _love_ the electric mini, but I believe "small diesel generator" is ironic. How I would kill for a 8kW diesel generator of even moderate size fuel consumption and noise specs.

DIY yourself a covered 3 person trike. It really is the only way to go. As a matter of fact its required if your title includes "mad scientist"

rektide

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

nsjames — Fri, 02 May 2008 15:18:26 EDT

Diesel Rabbit Caddy.
It's like an El Camino only not nearly as cool. At least you could pickup the waste veg oil with the "bed"

nsjames

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

TRAMS_AM — Fri, 02 May 2008 15:15:14 EDT

I know Al said we had to read all the posts, so I'm going to assume someone already said it.

But I SECOND the idea of a shifter kart!

MadSci - I take my LT1 Trans Am on a 130 mile round trip each day. Your drive is practically around the corner! I suggest a '74 MKIV for your driving pleasure.

TRAMS_AM

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

akier — Fri, 02 May 2008 15:15:05 EDT

@Murilee Martin: love it. if i may offer a suggestion, my buddy swears by the Yanmar 3-cyl diesels in single-RPM applications, and has been thinking about converting his beloved Mazda B2200 to run it diesel-electric style. this would compliment his fleet of diesel Peugeot 504s.

he is a wonderful, crazy man.

akier

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

vr6john — Fri, 02 May 2008 15:11:26 EDT

this was Red AuerБЯд╒╒'s idea first...I expanded on it a bit...but it might be perfect for the SoCal freeways...you could carpool and make them take turns riding shot gun...literally

vr6john

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Bad Juju — Fri, 02 May 2008 15:11:09 EDT

@TheTooth: Register as 1960 Lotus. No problemo. What do you think all the Cobra replicas do? If you start off a kit frame, you ought to get a Manufacturers Statement of Origin from the company. But even if you don't, its doable.
Just read up on your states laws, and know that if youre coming to CA everythings easier if the year of the car is < 1965.
As far as CA's laws on reg'ing kits & homebuilts, its all very well documented & its not that bad.

Bad Juju

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Eric Merrill — Fri, 02 May 2008 15:09:21 EDT

Vespa, man! There's no other way. I love chatting up scooter-riders in my Miata at stoplights. They're great, stylish, zippy and affordable. If you pick one up for 5000, throw down 500 for a nice Alpinestars jacket with some gloves, what 400 for a spiffy Vespa leather helmet with goggles...for about 6000, you'll be allowing me to live vicariously through you! Sweet.

Eric Merrill

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

crankcase — Fri, 02 May 2008 14:43:05 EDT

Jet powered Honda 600

crankcase

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

AustinMiniMan — Fri, 02 May 2008 14:42:27 EDT

@P161911:

My truck came from New Zealand; River House Minis restored it, I bought it from the guy who bought it from them.

Oddly enough, when I went to the DMV to get a plate for it, the plate they gave me(It wasn't a vanity plate of anything) was NZL 1972.

Pretty fitting for a 1972 Mini from New Zealand.

AustinMiniMan

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

wonkydonky — Fri, 02 May 2008 14:30:16 EDT

MkIV (99-04) Jetta TDI with the VegOil Conversion. You can get 50 gal drums of veg delivered in Cali, methinks. -And 5gal cans of Wesson or something at Costco.

wonkydonky

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

teargas — Fri, 02 May 2008 14:28:57 EDT

Or a super beetle, cheap to buy, cheap on gas, plenty of room and easy to fix.

Now, I realize that's the worst post ever, but those are some damn good options. The 80's 911's will turn in low 30s on the highway.

teargas

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Mad_Science — Fri, 02 May 2008 14:28:18 EDT

Funny coincidence that the front page now has an ad for the Carlisle Import-Kit/Replicar Nationals.

Targeted advertising...what a concept!

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

BLS — Fri, 02 May 2008 14:25:26 EDT

I am late to this game but...

Gas prices be damned there are many V12 powered luxury coupes available from Mercedes, BMW, and Jaguar for under $10K.

My personal choice is '95 BMW 850CSi.

BLS

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

graverobber- Two BEER minimum — Fri, 02 May 2008 14:24:01 EDT

@Mad_Science: I know exactly what you are talking about, and agree about the easy hoonage opportunities of the Asian machines. How about this:[losangeles.craigslist.org]

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

pryndyl has gone Welsh — Fri, 02 May 2008 14:23:02 EDT

@Mad_Science: Man, my friend complains about driving from Laurel Canyon to Beverly, and his partner has to go into Inglewood. Late 1600 air-cooled will get you 35mpg, and there are plenty available, but no A/C for that stop and go.

$6 to $10k for electric conversion kits alone, forget about the miles.

pryndyl has gone Welsh

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

UDMan — Fri, 02 May 2008 14:22:38 EDT

Some suggestions, only they are all on the east coast:
[providence.craigslist.org]
[hartford.craigslist.org]
[newhaven.craigslist.org]
[providence.craigslist.org]
[albany.craigslist.org]
[buffalo.craigslist.org]
[longisland.craigslist.org]
[longisland.craigslist.org]
[newyork.craigslist.org]
I put in a very minimal price to search, and also included the words "Diesel" and here's a short list. The Mazda came up because the owner bought a new diesel, but it is a 626 with a stick! The last one is a 1964 Volvo Wagon... I don't know, but you did say you're mechanically adept.

UDMan

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

markov - type gna(R) — Fri, 02 May 2008 14:19:23 EDT

My friend is selling a 1978 300CD with the OM617. Cost is $3000 plus a trip to the dirty. You might get bored with only 50 horsepower to the wheels and gas mileage in the 20's. Actually, I recommend against this.

markov - type gna(R)

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

AustinMiniMan — Fri, 02 May 2008 14:17:15 EDT

@YankBoffin: Agreed, but a five speed conversion would be a must; you're revving pretty high to keep up on the highway. My truck gets about 30MPG, the wagon about 27.

Another option is a Mini with a V-Tech conversion. Someone a while back made(manufactured) a body shell that was composite, so you could have a normal-looking Mini that weighed 1200lbs, had 160HP, fuel injection, and a five speed. That has to get you at least 40MPG with careful driving.

AustinMiniMan

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Mad_Science — Fri, 02 May 2008 14:15:24 EDT

@graverobber- Same great taste, new low price!: Yeah, the GTi is a tempting prospect. Not sure if it can outscore its Japanese competition in the Fun/Crazy/Economic Optimization Algorithm.

The cool thing with this is that I've got other cars as backups, so if the super-commuter is down it's not the end of the world.

But it needs to fail predictably. I'm fine to know that the XYZ is going out and that I need to fix it this weekend, but I'm trying to avoid greasy road-side repairs in my Corporate Douchebag™ uniform while I'm late for a meeting.

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

damnElantra — Fri, 02 May 2008 14:09:46 EDT

@graverobber- Same great taste, new low price!: ha ha
got to make pit stops in hollywood for the wify

@Mad_Science: you sir are a stronger man then i

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

graverobber- Two BEER minimum — Fri, 02 May 2008 14:08:34 EDT

@Mad_Science: Ah ha, I know that drive well- we have clients up there. At least you are going against traffic patterns, but there's a lot of elevation changes on that route that can really affect your MPG.
I'm going back on my initial recco of a diesel Imark and am thinking now that a good, un-abused early GTi would be a good candidate for this daily run. There's so many reasonably-priced upgrades for those cars, and they're pretty common here in So Cal, that it would make a nice "drive it on the weekdays and fix it up on the weekends" car.

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

danio3834 — Fri, 02 May 2008 14:06:51 EDT

Sorry Mr. Science, I can't help you here. The only vehicles I can suggest are fuel thirsty and or fun to drive, not frugal.

Although I did start a project truck that runs on wood smoke.

danio3834

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Brian B — Fri, 02 May 2008 13:59:40 EDT

Dude, you need to spend a weekend driving a U-Haul. If not, get to know the owner of a local Chinese restaurant, buy a W123 (your choice, just make sure it has a turbo if it's got a slushbox) and make it a vegetarian.

Brian B

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

mechimike — Fri, 02 May 2008 13:58:57 EDT

I think there's a Porsche 550 kit car out there somewhere...a 1600# car with some sort of sub-1.6 litre powerplant should net you in the 30's, at least.

mechimike

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Froggmann — Fri, 02 May 2008 13:55:26 EDT

@Froggmann: Dammed distractions I meant "mated to a Honda motorcycle"

But the 914 does have potental as an EV

[www.electroauto.com]

Froggmann

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Mike the Dog — Fri, 02 May 2008 13:55:12 EDT

@BЯдΖǐL-ЯЄРΘЯΤЄЯ: Exactly hand?

Mike the Dog

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

thatguy01 — Fri, 02 May 2008 13:54:44 EDT

First-gen Miata, alas, is the killer option. Check for rust, and smile as you drive.

thatguy01

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Mad_Science — Fri, 02 May 2008 13:54:01 EDT

@damnElantra, and graverobber- Same great taste, new low price!:

[maps.google.com]

Again, I'm really reluctant to put 15k miles/year on what classifies as a reasonably rare classic. Hence, no old Minis or Corvairs, etc.

I've seen a bunch of VW-based kits. Needless to say, there's a huge range of quality on those. Still, a 1600 crate motor in a light, slippery body with the right gearing could be pretty workable.

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

BeerDearthair — Fri, 02 May 2008 13:46:56 EDT

@damnElantra: It's times like this I love my situation. I drive to work, drive home at lunch, drive back, drive home after work... and I'd still be hard-pressed to break two kilometers a day.

And before anyone asks... there's a small mountain between my home and my work. So it literally would be "uphill both ways, with snow in july".

BeerDearthair

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Froggmann — Fri, 02 May 2008 13:45:01 EDT

At first I was going to recomend a Trihawk (3 year manufacture span, made from Citroen and Renult parts) but I found something more helli.... err unique! You will have to put it together though.

Long story short, a neighbor of mine had a Porsche 914 nose mated to a Honda front clip. I figure you could do the exact same thing!

First start with this:

1974 Porsche 914 for $900!
[losangeles.craigslist.org]

Combine that with this little beauty, a "Wrecked but running" 86 Kawi 1300 that needs to be sold as parts.
[orangecounty.craigslist.org]

With some work, a broken sp... err, enthusiasm you coudl have this thing running as your own Jalopnik trag.. story!

Froggmann

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

graverobber- Two BEER minimum — Fri, 02 May 2008 13:35:07 EDT

@damnElantra: Dude, we should car-pool.

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Elhigh — Fri, 02 May 2008 13:32:08 EDT

How about this thing:
[images.google.com]

It's homebrew but it does 50mph, and it's electric. Shocking goodness.

Elhigh

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

damnElantra — Fri, 02 May 2008 13:32:01 EDT

...also, where the hell do you work!
i live in san gabriel and work in burbank and im barely reaching the 55 mile a day

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

damnElantra — Fri, 02 May 2008 13:30:23 EDT

mad science, what every you do. say no to the sirens song of cheap used korea autos.

...they suck, even with a manual

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

mechimike — Fri, 02 May 2008 13:30:09 EDT

I'm surprised no one suggested Darth Nader's favorite car: a Corvair. I get almost 30mpg with my '64 convertible; coupes should be a bit better, and I'm sure you could shed some excess weight (back seat) and top the 30 mark easy. Just buy a 64 or later; the earlier ones were truely more likely to roll over in evasive manuevers.

mechimike

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

voodoojoo — Fri, 02 May 2008 13:28:22 EDT

So maybe my first impulse of spending $10k on explosives and blowing your way into the history books in the Mojave probably isn't that helpful.

voodoojoo

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

TurboBrick — Fri, 02 May 2008 13:24:22 EDT

Everybody has a W123 diesel, go with something different... how about Volvo 740 with the VW 2.4L turbodiesel? Those swedish boats sure do have comfy seats and while they're noisy as hell on the outside it's whisper quiet inside. Also, great V8 swap potential if the gas prices ever do come down again.

TurboBrick

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Sloop_John_B — Fri, 02 May 2008 13:23:31 EDT

@Nurburgringer: I'm with you on the 81 honda. Cars like this taunt me all the time from California (live in ATL). My first ride in a car was at 1/2 days old from the hospital. We kept it for quite a few years, long enough for me to remember it. One day, one day...

Sloop_John_B

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

bruxell — Fri, 02 May 2008 13:21:41 EDT

'78 Rabbit diesel, a home mode grease-car kit, and a Dunkin' Donuts...

bruxell

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

tenbeers — Fri, 02 May 2008 13:18:43 EDT

@MazdaEric:
Cheech: Hey man, that's pee!
Chong: Of course.
Cheech: Hey man, what are you doing with pee, man?
Chong: It's for my probation officer.
Cheech: What, does he drink pee?

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

TheTooth — Fri, 02 May 2008 13:16:24 EDT

@13thfloorelevator: I would love to do that. The only thing that holds me back from building a se7en kit is my fear of not being able to register it in CA when I was done building.

TheTooth

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Euromobile — Fri, 02 May 2008 13:15:25 EDT

@Fiat CinqueBENTO: Both the Peugeot and the Land Rover are solid suggestions. I was actually going to suggest a Citroen CX diesel, if you can find one.

@nick2ny: An AZ-1 would be 100% pure concentrated win.

May I also suggest a Saab 96 two-stroke? You could race to and from work every day pretending you're Eric 'on the roof' Carlsson!

Euromobile

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

DeadFlorist — Fri, 02 May 2008 13:14:11 EDT

Well, if you need longer range on an electric, there's always the more batteries option.

My friend and I are already building a gas/electric setup for auxiliary power on his homemade sailboat out of a 50 year old non-functional outboard, a questionably sourced DC electric motor from ebay, an old gas power washer and a 24v bus alternator. It's extremely silly.

As soon as prices come down on automotive Li-ions, the electric 944 is totally happening.

DeadFlorist

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

13thfloorelevator — Fri, 02 May 2008 13:04:13 EDT

Build a cheap se7en kit. I used to know two crazy lesbians who built a dirt-cheap one with a Triumph Dolomite sprint as the donor car, and the little fucker was terrifying. I dream of a ground-floor home with some kind of shed where I could do that with a modern engine...

13thfloorelevator

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Skydiver — Fri, 02 May 2008 13:02:47 EDT

@MazdaEric: "Are you sure that's Mountain Dew?"

Skydiver

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Skydiver — Fri, 02 May 2008 13:01:50 EDT

@Mike the Dog: When that happens, I hope I leave a nasty stain on their windshield.

Skydiver

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Braff Wayne — Fri, 02 May 2008 13:01:27 EDT

Found another... its friday and I cant stop

VW Rabbit Diesel Pickup
[orangecounty.craigslist.org]

[orangecounty.craigslist.org]

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Braff Wayne — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:59:41 EDT

This is my last one... and the best one

Datsun 510 Wagon!

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Al Navarro — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:59:15 EDT

@Mad_Science:
If you're in Cali, you need to SB100 it, I think...

But let's say you and a friend build it in Texas or AZ or some other more kit car friendly state...

Again, you know where to reach me.

Al Navarro

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Braff Wayne — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:59:11 EDT

How secure are you?
[orangecounty.craigslist.org]

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Braff Wayne — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:58:25 EDT

[orangecounty.craigslist.org]
desperate to sell...

[orangecounty.craigslist.org]

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Braff Wayne — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:57:08 EDT

Its already got lo-cash pimp rims...

[orangecounty.craigslist.org]

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

TheTooth — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:55:22 EDT

@Skydiver: I average about 60 miles a day over the 105/605 on a motorcycle as well. Lane splitting is definately the way to go.

My fiance used to worry until she saw how angry traffic made me when I had to commute in the car a few times... then she decided that everyone was probably safer when I was splitting lanes on the bike. LOL

TheTooth

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

crazygutgut — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:55:02 EDT

how about a subaru 360
supposedly gets 60mpg

crazygutgut

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Braff Wayne — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:54:38 EDT

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

BeerDearthair — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:54:16 EDT

Okay, listen carefully, I'm only going to explain this once.

Set up a shell corporation. It can be a numbered company, call it Mad Science Incorporated, whatever you like. Actually, no. Call it Mad Science Incorporated. Design a logo, and put it on your vehicle.

Here's where the cost comes in. You will need to transfer ownership of your major assets to that shell corporation. You can usually do this for $1, but there are a lot of fees involved.

Once you've done that, your shell corporation will own your house and car, and you will be paying it rent to use these conveniences. Pay the company whatever your mortgage payments and car payments are. This is its revenue. Since real estate is generally an appreciating asset, and vehicles are a depreciating asset, you would ideally like to keep your business in a situation where the appreciation of your home is offset by the depreciation of your vehicles. Unless you're in, say, Michigan, in which case, just work with all that glorious depreciation.

Now, part of the arrangement with this corporation is that it supplies all the fuel for the vehicles and heats your home. As such, all that fuel you buy becomes tax-deductible, and the more you buy, the bigger the tax write off.

Throw out your Honda, buy a Humvee, leave it idling while you're at work, until such time as the business declares an enormous loss. Use this Capital Loss on your tax forms as the owner and sole shareholder to offset any income you might have made, so that eventually you get all your taxes returned from the government, thus paying for all those puréed dinosaurs you burned up.

This may or may not be legal. I haven't checked. But do let me know how it works out for you!

BeerDearthair

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Mad_Science — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:52:18 EDT

@YankBoffin: Yeah, I'm going to put enough miles on whatever it is that I'm kind reluctant to drive a nicer classic into the ground.

@Al Navarro: Hmmm...
[doing shipping and building calculations in my head]
What's the deal with registering a Se7en?

@Murilee Martin: "Full hybrid '85 Tercel wagon with railroad...

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

MarionCobretti — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:52:16 EDT

For max-Jalopness, I'd say a gray-market Suzuki Cappuccino with a bike-engine swap. But, for less money you could have a first-gen Miata, which more than one person has pointed out is ideal as a cheap commuter.

MarionCobretti

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

P161911 — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:50:50 EDT

@YankBoffin: There are several guys around importing pretty good Austin Minis from New Zealand, they run about $6-10K.

P161911

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

thunder — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:50:44 EDT

I like the way you think, sir. But you've got to use something more interesting than the rolling turd that is the Tercel wagon... that drivetrain would work in most anything, like the aforementioned Scubie BRAT perhaps? Or maybe something a little more slippery, like an old 911, or 924... Heck, maybe even that PCH 928 from yesterday?

How the heck am I going to get any work done for the rest of the day?

thunder

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

P161911 — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:48:12 EDT

BMW E30, if you are serious about the gas mileage get a 318 or 325e. It is rear wheel drive and can get about 30mpg. Take the $5-8K you save to pay for the little bit more gas you use vs. the Honda or just do suspension and wheel mods. I have an 87 325 as my daily driver with the original diff (2.79?) I was getting 24-25mpg around town and 28-30mpg on the highway. I swapped the diff to a 3.25LSD from the pull-a-part yard , it is now actually fun to drive and I still get about 21mpg driving around back roads like a bat outta hell with the A/C on. Get about 27mpg on the highway now. I know driving style can greatly effect the gas mileage. When I drove my wife's 99 Civic I couldn't get better than 24mpg. I was too used to a Corvette at the time.

If you really want to go the alt fuel route find a 1980s Ford diesel: Ranger, Tempo, Escort, or better yet a Mark VII.

If it is all highway crusing, a C4 Vette 6-speed will get about 28mpg, and falls in your price range.

P161911

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Braff Wayne — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:46:00 EDT

@Dr. Spaceman: There is one (a Honda Insight) in Huntington Beach that i have to get a shot of...

It is painted flat black with red and chrome moonbeam hubcaps. It has red-pinstriping down the sides and in the back as well... awesome.

BЯдΖǐL-ЯЄРΘЯΤЄЯ Grows trees to get his CO² balance done

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

YankBoffin — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:46:00 EDT

They're certainly hard to come by (in the States), but nothing beats a real BMC Mini. Super fun and super high cool factor. Highly collectible though, so not cheap but probably in your budget. Own an icon that is also frugal and has rally pedrigree!

YankBoffin

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

BЯдΖǐL-ЯЄРΘЯΤЄЯ Grows trees to get his CO² balance done — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:45:58 EDT

@StimulusCheckAsh: Exactamente mano

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Mad_Science — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:45:22 EDT

Two more things:

CA Smog:
Pre-'75 or OEM diesel is a free-for-all (diesel Mustang?), but it's basically impossible to convert from gas-to-diesel. I'm sure electric would be fine, as there's no emissions. I'm not sure how easy it is to register different kit cars, particularly the British made ones (how come there are so many from the UK?)

Public transit:
I used to take the bus and or light rail, but my current commute is reverse (hence the long distance and high speeds), and the train schedule doesn't line up with reasonable work hours.

Probably the craziest thing about all of this is that I'm reasonably serious.

Paul Y. -- Now With More Sodium!

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Scroggzilla Raids Again! — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:44:58 EDT

A diesel Mercedes Benz W123 from the era when they were built like safes.

Scroggzilla Raids Again!

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Paul Y. -- Now With More Sodium! — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:37:51 EDT

Fintail Mercedes with a more modern diesel transplant (say, from a Sprinter, perhaps).

I (still) know of a W111 sitting in a field, so you're halfway there.

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Andrewpetty — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:37:09 EDT

@StimulusCheckAsh: Ha! Way to carve out a nice little comment.

But I don't agree. The problem with a a waste oil car is that you have to add a separate tank for the diesel you need to get the car started and to clean the coagulated junk out of the fuel lines. I've never seen this tank anywhere but in the trunk. If you're driving a wagon, you're probably going to be sharing your passenger compartment with some diesel fumes.

But if you are real secure in your masculinity, Mr. Mad Science, you should go with a Beetle TDi. You could get it with the DSG trans AND it came in lime green paint. You may have to change your name to "Hot Shit."

Andrewpetty

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

tenbeers — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:36:44 EDT

@SundaySundayFnC: Plus, the rear hatch comes off on the N13 Pulsars, thus creating an instant Pulsarmino.

@101 POLAЯ FOLLOWEЯS CAN'T BE WЯONG... WHO DID THAT??: Eh?

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

POLAЯ — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:35:57 EDT

POLAЯ

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

POLAЯ — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:35:28 EDT

@Number_Six: It's been sitting there a while! And its price has dropped a couple of times as it just sits there... taunting me every effin' day!!!!

POLAЯ

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

PatFromGundo — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:34:54 EDT

@Mad_Science: "Unmolested?" In SoCal? Good luck.

PatFromGundo

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Al Navarro — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:34:48 EDT

@Mad_Science:
There is a partial se7en kit for sale in the Detwa area for just $4800...here:

[www.usa7s.com]

Al Navarro

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

PatFromGundo — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:33:57 EDT

@Red AuerБЯд╒╒: No apology expected. Mass transit is not for everybody, especially in the whacked-out geography of this city. For me it's convenient, and the $ savings are simply too large to ignore. I don't do it for the supposed environmental benefits, though I do get a small amount of satisfaction out of not being yet another solo driver on the freeway at rush hour. More importantly, BECAUSE I ride the train most days, it's easier for me to justify having a sports car as my ONLY car.

As for the "subway to the sea" you mentioned, it could happen now that the methane gas hazard excuse has magically ceased to exist (turns out rich westsiders hate traffic more than they hate "THOSE people coming from East L.A.") Still, with construction costs estimated to run $1 billion per mile, it's a LONG way off.

PatFromGundo

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Number_Six — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:31:10 EDT

@101 POLAЯ FOLLOWEЯS CAN'T BE WЯONG... WHO DID THAT??: Damn, I won't be back in TO until September. I doubt it will still be there, eh?

Number_Six

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Dr.Danger, Shogun of Jalopnik — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:31:04 EDT

Convertible Priusamino

Dr.Danger, Shogun of Jalopnik

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Mad_Science — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:30:53 EDT

Right now the "obvious" choice is a CRX or Civic hatch, provided I can find an unmolested 5-speed.

What I'd LOVE to find would be a Se7en-esque 2 seater with a 5/6 speed and a means to put some tall gears in it.

I'd be all about the assorted electrics, but it seems most of them don't quite have the range I need (at speed).

@Murilee Martin: That's what I'm talkin' about.

[photos.plasmaboyracing.com]

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

SundaySundaySecondShift — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:30:24 EDT

For lots of fun on the cheap, and possibly invisible to cops, you could grab the cleanest example of a Nissan Pulsar you could find. Either the T-topped version or the one just prior. Wedge-errific!

SundaySundaySecondShift

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Neener — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:28:16 EDT

87 Samurai with the VW turbo Diesel conversion.

Neener

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

nick2ny — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:26:12 EDT

Autozam AZ-1 is right in your price range!

nick2ny

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

lascauxcaveman — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:25:05 EDT

This would be a good thing to shoot for. Runs 12's and it's streetable. All electric.
Also available in blue, with a killer car stereo; and probably more appropriate for day to day cruising:

lascauxcaveman

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

graverobber- Two BEER minimum — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:24:39 EDT

@FreeMan: Good catch, and rationalization. I kind of glossed over that aspect, thinking it had something to do with this guy:

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

anaxomander — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:23:17 EDT

@Murilee Martin:
The new Cube really got you thinking, eh?

Me, I'd go with Mazda Suitcase Power.
[www.roadraceengineering.com]

You could draft *under* Outbacks and CUVs for extra mileage.

anaxomander

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

POLAЯ — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:23:10 EDT

If it was me ----------->[trader.ca]

POLAЯ

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

SundaySundaySecondShift — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:23:02 EDT

@SundaySundayFnC: "side of the, side of the" -- good gravy, I didn't stay up that late last night.

SundaySundaySecondShift

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Dr. Spaceman, Esq. — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:22:55 EDT

Get a used Honda Insight. Quirky as fuck, less then $12k, and I know a guy who autocrosses one. You can be that guy too.

Also, if it dies, swap in a turbo'd-B-series. Run 10's all day long.

Dr. Spaceman, Esq.

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

DannyBN — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:22:43 EDT

@FreeMan: Oddly, if you Google "Fiero trike", several more come up. That one just happens to be the "nicest."

DannyBN

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Ben Simons — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:22:42 EDT

@bzr - Pinko Commie Bastard Edition: plus with that chevvy transmission already in place you could bolt in a bread van 4BT Cummins - you may have to cut the He-man hood though...

Ben Simons

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Steel_ETC — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:22:19 EDT

@smalleyxb122: "A Fiero with a Quad-4 swap is a future project consideration of mine."

An old friend of mine with a Beretta told me horror stories about the DOHC Quad-4 engine, though they haven't diluted my futile dream of one day getting my hands on an Opel Calibra Turbo AWD. You might want to stick to an ecotec swap, however.

But for Mad_Science, a Fiero of any kind would be an excellent Jalopnik-worty choice, and I bet an Opel diesel I4 engine would bolt right in...

Steel_ETC

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

NatefromOgden — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:21:49 EDT

I wonder if he might find a Grinnall Scorpion III: [www.grinnallcars.com]

NatefromOgden

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

SundaySundaySecondShift — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:21:13 EDT

I'd go the conventional route. To have fun but sip fuel, I'd sport a second-hand Mini Cooper S. Or a manual non-S depending on which side of the fun/cheap side of the equation you're after.

SundaySundaySecondShift

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Mazda Plainview — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:19:08 EDT

[i26.tinypic.com]

Mazda Plainview

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Braff Wayne — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:18:27 EDT

@Skydiver: It is a great option, I agree with you.

However, the way people drive out here, I would never consider it.

I AM hoping that someone criples my Altima soon though... Gap Insurance FTW!

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Indiana Bento and the lost Temple of Citroens — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:18:25 EDT

Okay...Buy This!:

and convert it to BioDiesel....French Car that smells like French Fries.

Unless you want THIS!:

Indiana Bento and the lost Temple of Citroens

and use it to INVADE France and get all the fuel you want cheap!

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Al Navarro — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:18:13 EDT

I know of an original Saab Sonnet for sale by the first and only (lady) owner. Yellow. V4 power with 30 mpg. You know where to reach me.

Al Navarro

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Braff Wayne — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:17:19 EDT

@PatFromGundo: even though I like you, I cannot go back on my word... no apology.

Are they going to expand that out to Santa Monica? Home of Orange County's homeless

Maymar - now with 37% less anonymity

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Maymar - now with 37% less anonymity — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:16:56 EDT

Keep driving $500 Cutlass Cieras into the ground. They were built with math! ([jalopnik.com]), something I'm sure a man of science, no matter how mad, can appreciate.

Other than that, if you're in Southern California, would a Seven be an option?

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

HoubaHouba! — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:16:42 EDT

This month's Grassroots Motorsports has a splashy article on Randy Pobst's veggie-oil Jetta TDI - lots of veggie VWs but this one goes around corners, too. Unfortunately at least on the east coast used TDIs are way too 'spensive.

A high compression B16 in a CNG or propane CRX would be pretty damn fun, too.

HoubaHouba!

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Mazda Plainview — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:16:41 EDT

what's with the german pissing video clip up there?

Mazda Plainview

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

lascauxcaveman — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:15:50 EDT

I wouldn't go Greasel. That made sense a couple years ago, but today everybody and their dog are in competition for the "free" fuel. [www.biodieselnow.com]

lascauxcaveman

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Tyson — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:13:23 EDT

Porsche 914 with an electric conversion and a bunch of optima lead-acid batteries.

Tyson

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

hypnotoad — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:13:14 EDT

How about the 640HP electric mini that was featured some time ago? Now there's a classic homebrew project: pick a car you like, ditch the drivetrain and replace with electric motors, a small diesel generator in the trunk, some fancy circuitry and Bob's your uncle.

[www.treehugger.com]

hypnotoad

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

PatFromGundo — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:12:32 EDT

@Red AuerБЯд╒╒: That hurts, man. I take Metrorail four days a week (I know, you said "bus," not "train.") I'm saving about $120 per month on gas. Plus, I get to meet some, er, interesting people as I ride through Watts, Compton, F13 Gang territory, etc. Hey, I've only been mugged once!

@jbarrow: That's exactly what I do on the fifth day.

PatFromGundo

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

smalleyxb122 — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:10:02 EDT

Graymarket Honda BEAT?
How about an original Morris Mini?
Karman Ghia?
Fun/Unique/30+mpg is a tough slot to fill.
Driven politely, an AW11 MR2 does pretty well.
Along the same lines, an AE86 Corolla could work.
A Fiero with a Quad-4 swap is a future project consideration of mine.

Subaru BRAT! It's jalop-worthy, gets good mileage, and is fun(if slow) to drive.

Okay, my vote is a BRAT.

smalleyxb122

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Dave7 — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:10:01 EDT

Geo Metro three cylinder hook to a Suzuki Samurai 5spd in a Locost Seven.

Dave7

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Murilee Martin — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:09:30 EDT

Full hybrid '85 Tercel wagon with railroad locomotive style drivetrain: Electric motor driving the rear wheels, small water-cooled motorcycle engine powering a truck alternator replacing the Toyota engine/transaxle. Battery pack of surplus NOS laptop NiMH cells. Megasquirt optimization of fuel delivery for single-RPM operation, plus custom-ground camshaft likewise optimized for the same RPM. Solar panels on the roof to supplement alternator power.

Yeah, I've been contemplating such a project for myself.

Murilee Martin

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

WheatKing — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:09:23 EDT

1975 Ford LTD 2 door with landau..

$1000

[losangeles.craigslist.org]

Invest $10K in oil stocks and use the other $4K for gas for the rest of the year..

It will pay for itself many times over.

WheatKing

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Mike the Dog — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:06:40 EDT

@Skydiver: Until the day it becomes "lane splitting- to the death!"

Mike the Dog

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

jbarrow — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:06:23 EDT

It's not very creative, but a first generation Miata makes a fun and economical commuter. They are cheap to buy and maintain and are a lot of fun even when you aren't driving back and forth to work. In the four years I owned my '92 I got over 31 mpg. Not bad. I wish I still had it.

jbarrow

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Nurburgringer — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:05:35 EDT

[losangeles.craigslist.org]

Nurburgringer

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

FЯeeMan — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:04:44 EDT

@DannyBN: I'm... I'm... I... just don't know.

Astounded? Impressed? Scared? Scarred! Confused? Amazed? Baffled? Angry? Excited?

I... I just don't know what to make of that. I can envision Odd Job driving while Auric Goldfinger sits in side wrapped in the finest... luxury... mid-80's GM craptacular plastic. My mind's imploding.

FЯeeMan

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Mike the Dog — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:04:35 EDT

3 words for you my Mad Scientific friend. Rabbit. Diesel. Pickup.

Mike the Dog

What Should Mad Science Drive To Work?

Braff Wayne — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:03:51 EDT

@DWMILLER:
Only losers & FBI Agents take the bus in SoCal.
If there are any SoCal losers in here, than I am not sorry to offend you...

If you happen to be an FBI Agent, those photos on my hard drive are for research purposes only.