September 1990

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Dear Tom and Ray:
We are planning to purchase a family vehicle in the next three weeks. We are currently looking at the Subaru Legacy L wagon, Toyota Camry Deluxe wagon, and the Volvo 240DL wagon (all standard shift). We currently have two boys, ages 8 and 4, but plan to expand our family in the next two years. The important aspects of the new car must be: 1) affordability; 2) Safety; 3) reliability; 4) roominess: 5) low maintenance costs; 6) long life. We would appreciate a response to the three vehicles listed above and would like your recommendations.
Manuel and Lisa

RAY: For affordability, I'd get the Subaru.

TOM: For reliability, I'd get the Toyota.

RAY: For safety, I'd get the Volvo.

TOM: For roominess, I'd also get the Volvo.

RAY:: For low maintenance costs, I'd get anything but the Volvo.

TOM: And for long life, I'd eat right, get plenty of exercise, and above all, try to maintain your sense of humor.

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© 2006 by Tom and Ray Magliozzi and Doug Berman. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

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Auto repairs can be costly! Save money by ordering Tom and Ray's pamphlet: "Ten Ways You May Be Ruining Your Car Without Even Knowing It!" To order, send (check or money order) to Ruin, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475. You can also order online.