I am not really sure what you think the alternative is. Should they just keep driving their old cars and hope they don't break down?

 

trying to etch headlight pattern into long-term memory...

 

Not only are they more likely to break down, but they pollute more, use more fuel, and aren't as safe. The big picture is just so overrated though

 

 

Aside from arguing, I'm just stoked on seeing that fat light bar on top. So irritated with the lack of light bars on white CHP cruisers...

 

Personally I'd like for cities to squeeze out the usefullness for sure before spending $30k+ on a new cruiser. I've seen some old ones around, but seriously, I think they let them go well beyond their useful years. If Maintenance is done regularly, there is no reason for them to be breaking down even after 10+ years.

I think the habit of buying the newest greatest thing is not good. We should try to use them until they are for sure not worth repairing.

 

I agree.

I would like to see how much they really cost. Last time I saw anything in print it was regarding Sunnyvale's "Police Interceptors" and they were running $75k-$90k depending on equipment. This was around '02 and I cannot find the article anymore.

On a recent road trip through small CA and OR towns, I was really impressed to see a good amount of very old police cars out there that looked and sounded tip-top. Some of these were early 90's Crown Vics.

Sure the new cars are more efficient on fuel and do not need as many repairs potentially due to them being newer (this has NOT been the case with my automotive experiences by the way) but there is no way one could say that replacing a well-maintained, serviceable vehicle that is say 10 years old with a newer, slightly more efficient model is better in the long run. Like anyone else, they should get the new toys when they can afford them, and keep the existing ones running until then.

It's like when people say they just bought a brand new car that gets better fuel mileage to replace their paid-off older model to save money. That is so annoying and dumb. You can buy a lot of fuel and repairs for the cost of a new car, and simply not making the new car is obviously better for the environment.

 

another police car to watch out for. well only if your in san carlos....

 

The one thing pointed out by several people that make the new car fail is their Under Cover Package like wtf? Those cars are only available to cops, so why is there a need for a UC Car? Durr............

-Gio

 

Benicia CA might be getting the new ford taurus SHO