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67 messages,  Last post on Feb 11, 2010 at 10:20 AM

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Messages Page 6 of 7

#48 of 67 Re: Taxi Drivers [andre1969] by gagrice

Jan 04, 2008 (8:55 am)

Replying to: andre1969 (Jan 04, 2008 7:31 am)
I am not sure about cabs. I have used Cloud 9 shuttle to the airport many times. The drivers tell me the Chevy full size vans go 400,000+ miles before being replaced. Ford Vans rarely get to 250,000 miles. Not sure if repair is cheaper on the GM van or what. I would expect a Crown Vic to last at least 250k miles.

#49 of 67 Re: Taxi Drivers (Re: Taxi Drivers) by hpmctorque

Jan 04, 2008 (4:21 pm)

I know that in some cases taxi drivers in europe own their own cars, because I chatted with some and learned this, but I don't know if it's typical or not. Regardless, I've ridden in cabs in numerous European countries, and in China, and I've never seen a driver drive in an abusive manner. Fast, many times, but not always. I've also experienced cabs that get uncomfortably close to pedestrians, cyclists, and other cars, but they seem to do it with great skill. As far as I recall I never experienced a jack rabbit start (adjusted for less horsepower), followed by slamming on the brakes, as cabbies sometimes do in this country.
 
One difference is that the percentage of people who drive cabs as a career, and not in between jobs, or part time, is greater in some other countries.

#50 of 67 Re: Taxi Drivers by hpmctorque

Jan 16, 2009 (8:22 am)

This discussion has been inactive for more than a year.
 
Did anyone suggest Ford Crown Vic hybrids or diesels for taxi service? Since the taxi industry seems to like the attributes of these cars, adding a hybrid or diesel option, or, maybe even better, a diesel hybrid, would be a way to keep these cars in service. Sure, they would cost more, but since big city taxis are run around the clock, the incremental initial cost and higher maintenance costs (for hybrids) might be totally offset, or even more than offset, by fuel savings.
 
A Lincoln Town Car version could serve the limo industry.

#51 of 67 Re: Taxi Drivers [hpmctorque] by gagrice

Jan 16, 2009 (10:32 am)

Replying to: hpmctorque (Jan 16, 2009 8:22 am)
There are thousands of Crown Vics running on CNG here in CA. Cops and taxi cabs. More plentiful than regular gas and cleaner than a hybrid.

#52 of 67 Re: Taxi Drivers (gagrice) by hpmctorque

Jan 16, 2009 (10:45 am)

Doesn't CNG take up a lot of space?

#53 of 67 Re: Taxi Drivers (gagrice) [hpmctorque] by gagrice

Jan 16, 2009 (10:54 am)

Replying to: hpmctorque (Jan 16, 2009 10:45 am)
I am not sure where they put the tank. I know the trunk is huge as I have ridden in them. Of course the back seat is very roomy. Much better than the Escape or Prius so many people would like to see take over.

#54 of 67 Re: Taxi Drivers (gagrice) [gagrice] by fezo

Jan 16, 2009 (12:24 pm)

Replying to: gagrice (Jan 16, 2009 10:54 am)
I know I'll hate myself for having to ask but when did they stop making Checkers? They were great cabs. I remember having 4 or 5 passengers in them without a big problem.
 
In high school I knew a kid who was one of 10. his folks would get either Checkers or Ford airport wagons.

#55 of 67 Re: Taxi Drivers (gagrice) [fezo] by andre1969

Jan 16, 2009 (12:33 pm)

Replying to: fezo (Jan 16, 2009 12:24 pm)
I think 1982 was the last year for Checker. I always thought they were neat rigs. I think Shifty had one once, or at least drove one a long distance, and said the front seat comfort was horrible. I sat in one that was for sale at Carlisle once, but can't remember how it was. I don't remember it being bad, but it's hard to tell from just sitting in something for a minute or two.

#56 of 67 Re: Taxi Drivers (gagrice) [gagrice] by larsb

Jan 16, 2009 (12:47 pm)

Replying to: gagrice (Jan 16, 2009 10:54 am)
I just think you are in a world of your own sometimes, Gary.
 
I don't know of anyone else I know other than you who picks a cab and says, "Dang, I'm glad this cab has 45 inches of legroom !!"
 
I have taken cabs maybe 60-70 times in my life. In various countries. And NEVER EVER have I given a darn about how much room was in the seat. I'm 5'9" and medium build.
 
I don't pick a taxi for the luxury and comfort level. I have usually picked cabs only as a last resort and WHATEVER can get me there, I'm happy to have.

#57 of 67 Re: Taxi Drivers (gagrice) [larsb] by andre1969

Jan 16, 2009 (12:58 pm)

Replying to: larsb (Jan 16, 2009 12:47 pm)
I have taken cabs maybe 60-70 times in my life. In various countries. And NEVER EVER have I given a darn about how much room was in the seat. I'm 5'9" and medium build.
 
Funny thing is, I don't think the Crown Vic is all that great, given its big external dimensions. I'm 6'3", and find legroom kinda tight in the back. Definitely tighter than the Caprice or the old Mopar R-body. Heck, even the old M-body Gran Fury/Diplomat weren't any smaller, IMO.
 
I think the current Ford Taurus/Mercury Sable would make a great taxi. Roomy back seat with almost limo-like legroom, and a trunk that's actually bigger than the Crown Vic's!
 
The Crown Vic probably wins out as a cab because they're rugged and durable, and can take a beating.
 
I can't even remember the last time I was even in a taxi cab. It was long enough ago though, that I remember it being a '91-96 Caprice.

Messages Page 6 of 7

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