[1967 R50/2]

The European claims of environmental concern strike me as somewhat hypocritical. Over 40% of new cars sold there are diesel. The diesel NO2 emissions, WHICH HAVE NOTHING TO DO WITH THE QUALITY OF THE FUEL create wicked smog. These emissions are a basic byproduct of the diesel combustion cycle. Basically diesel combustion takes place at such high temps that atmospheric nitrogen gets oxidized and comes out as smog. AGAIN this has nothing to do with the ash content of the exhaust or the sulfur content of the fuel.

I spent some time in Barcelona last year and the smog was worse than anything I had seen since 1975 LA.

That said...yes, big American cars are also an endulgence in hypocrisy. I don't know how many people I know who have said:

"I drive an SUV because it is safer."

So let me get this....your SUV:

1. Can't accelerate as fast as most cars.
2. Can't brake in as short a distance as most cars.
3. And can't handle a turn like most cars.
4. And is more likely to flip over in an accident.

So how are those things going to make you safer? ...and it sucks gas...and it is tough to park.