re: Alfetta vs GTV6 room question.

[Dennis Lou <dlou@domain.elided>]

>Date: Tue, 4 May 1999 08:15:21 -0500
>From: "Steve Hoffins" <Steve_Hoffins@domain.elided>
>Subject: re: Alfetta vs GTV6 room question.
>
>Rick, the problem with your idea is that at least in the GTV6, the seat
>does not fold down.  The gas tank is directly behind the seat and there is
>a structural crossmember above it.  I'll also add that the trunk area,
>while good sized, is not large enough for lots of tools.  Perhaps you
>shouldn't use a GTV6 as a pickup.  I'd suggest you use something a little
>less desirable like a 944.  (no flames, had one, loved it, don't want
>another)

Actually, I would think the 944 would be just as bad or worse.  While
it doesn't have the hatch strut going down the middle and (if I recall)
the seats are foldable, the bottom is quite high leaving the trunk
quite shallow with respect to the hatch mating area.

Trunk room seems to be a common failing for rear-drive/rear transaxle
coupes.  (of course, I see it as a benefit as it discourages you from
using your car as a storage device instead of a transportation
device; baggage sliding around the trunk tends to upset the handling
when trying to negotiate turn #4 at Willow Springs :-) Sedans don't
seem to suffer as much because they can tolerate a longer overhang behind
the rear axle (sporty sedan based coupes like the Milano notwithstanding).

I actually find the trunk space in my GTV6 fairly adequate compared to
other sports coupes of its era and type.  It's not spacious, but then again
my other vehicle is a 4wd pickup truck with a class 4 receiver hitch.   Use
the right tool for the right job, I always say.

The size, quantity and type of tools was never mentioned in the original
message.  Are we talking about a sheet metal brake and drill press?  Or
are the tools in question a butane soldering iron, multimeter and
jeweler's screwdrivers?  I say measure the toolboxes and measure the
trunk.  If it fits, have at it.  If not, keep looking.  FWD hatches
theoretically do quite well for these types of applications but they
often come with weak rear springs.

- -Dennis
San Diego, CA
'85 Alfa Romeo  GTV-6, white
'85 Nissan Pickup 4x4, white
'70 Volkswagen Beetle, white (currently green)

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