I am probably going to try to look at this if it is available: http://providence.craigslist.org/cto/4600722365.html
My two main concerns are actually powertrain related. Engine intake manifold gasket (hard to check for, but I'll look at the coolant and oil), and transmission (the 4T60/65 is known for a few things at this age but this one could be fine). It looks like a very clean car. I was going to say the price is right but that's what it's worth.
On the Malibu Maxx front (I still haven't driven one or even looked at one), I have narrowed my sites to an 06-07 LTZ or SS. The LT doesn't have enough options, though there are some decent examples if I could get over cloth, manual climate control, etc. I always try to buy used cars with all the options because it usually is not much more money to do so.
That said, there are 5 examples within 200 miles, which is not a lot.
http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale ... 2006&Log=0
Here are the available LT models for comparison:
http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale ... 2006&Log=0
A lot more choices. I also like the fancy sunroof that seems to be somewhat common in LTZ and SS cars.
Malibu replacement
Re: Malibu replacement
There are actually 7 LTZ or SS trim 06-07 Maxx's. I sorted by "hatchback" instead of the keyword "Maxx:"
http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale ... ATCH&Log=0
The LTZ is few and far between. Which is too bad because I think that's the trim I want.
http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale ... ATCH&Log=0
The LTZ is few and far between. Which is too bad because I think that's the trim I want.
Re: Malibu replacement
98 Olds Eighty-Eight compared to 2000 Malibu:
http://www.cars.com/go/compare/trimComp ... 00CHC111B0
The packaging efficiency of the N-body is definitely better, but the Olds is still bigger, as you would expect.
http://www.cars.com/go/compare/trimComp ... 00CHC111B0
The packaging efficiency of the N-body is definitely better, but the Olds is still bigger, as you would expect.
Re: Malibu replacement
I know Ed will be annoyed at this. I tried the worst case scenario for child seats in the Malibu. They fit.
I had to move the front passenger seat forward one notch. Notice the knee room in the front seats. It's fine.
What helps is that the front seats are not bulky at all, whereas they are in the Roadmaster and CTS-V. I guess bulky seats look more luxurious.
Ed, you could always swap to some Caprice front seats in the Roadmaster.
Anyway, this exercise means we don't need the Olds to fit two seats in this orientation as Jamie thought we might. The upgrade would be for more interior room in general, and a clean body, for a reasonable price. Otherwise, what she really wants is the rear hatch of the Maxx with the copious rear seat room it has. Plus at the right trim level, they're well equipped.
I had to move the front passenger seat forward one notch. Notice the knee room in the front seats. It's fine.
What helps is that the front seats are not bulky at all, whereas they are in the Roadmaster and CTS-V. I guess bulky seats look more luxurious.
Ed, you could always swap to some Caprice front seats in the Roadmaster.
Anyway, this exercise means we don't need the Olds to fit two seats in this orientation as Jamie thought we might. The upgrade would be for more interior room in general, and a clean body, for a reasonable price. Otherwise, what she really wants is the rear hatch of the Maxx with the copious rear seat room it has. Plus at the right trim level, they're well equipped.
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Re: Malibu replacement
I think it makes more sense to seek out the Maxx you want rather than purchase a lateral move car like that Olds. I don't see how that represents much of an advantage over the current Malibu other than being not rusty I guess. When searching for a rare car like the Maxx, you just need to take your time and be geographically flexible. Also, search often because any decent used car disappears pretty quickly.
Re: Malibu replacement
Something like a Vibe/Matrix would also suit, at least in terms of rear hatch utility. But those are definitely in a smaller size category and I don't thikn either of us want something smaller than her car. Plus the lame 4 cylinder engines don't really appeal to me. The mileage isn't really that much of a concern (assuming the Maxx at least matches her car).
Re: Malibu replacement
How about a Kia Rondo? It's not a small as the Vibe/Matrix and has the hatch thing going for it. Plus it has a lame V6 instead of a lame 4-cyl. 
Seriously though, I think the Rondo is a pretty solid buy in the used market due to its general undesirability if you don't mind something undesirable.
Seriously though, I think the Rondo is a pretty solid buy in the used market due to its general undesirability if you don't mind something undesirable.
Re: Malibu replacement
Before you call the 4-cyl engines in the Matrix lame, take time to remember the XRS. Back in 03, it came with a 180 HP version of the 2ZZ-GE and a 6-speed manual. It had an 8200 RPM redline and I think trapped around 90. This isn't exactly ideal for family hauling, but it is pretty cool they put this engine in the Matrix.
Re: Malibu replacement
I know about that engine and was waiting for you and Adam to correct me. That was FWD only and did they even make that in automatic? Not real relevant...and I bet Jamie would absolutely find it "slower" than her Malibu the way she uses the throttle. In before Adam says "she's doing it wrong" (by not winding it out). Family cars with an 8200 rpm redline are....not family cars.
Re: Malibu replacement
There was an auto version (4-speed) which I am sure was awful to drive. It probably falls out of VTEC between shifts. Even with the elevated redline in the Elise, it's difficult to keep it above 6200 RPM on the 1-2 shift unless your timing is perfect.