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From: bhs@siemens.UUCP
Newsgroups: net.auto
Subject: Re: Cars in Europe, Cont.
Message-ID: <25300004@siemens.UUCP>
Date: Thu, 13-Dec-84 09:26:00 EST
Article-I.D.: siemens.25300004
Posted: Thu Dec 13 09:26:00 1984
Date-Received: Fri, 14-Dec-84 06:04:20 EST
References: <1122@cca.UUCP>
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Nf-ID: #R:cca:-112200:siemens:25300004:000:4225
Nf-From: siemens!bhs    Dec 13 09:26:00 1984


Here's one for the line eater::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::


The Ford Fiesta is in Hetz's class A in Europe, which in France includes some
other cars like the Opel Corsa, and Volkswagen Polo, along with the Autobianchi
A111 and various miniature french cars. I have driven several of the cars in
that class, and can recommend the VW Polo as the best in the class. It is roomy
and comfortable, and has an excellent suspension within the limits of it's
size. The Ford Fiesta did not impress me that much, the suspension was
definetly below par. The Autobianchi is probably the funnest car in the class
to drive, but not for long distances. It is small and noisy, but it really is
agile. In order of availability, I would recommend you take: 1) VW Polo, 2)
Opel Corsa, 3) Ford Fiesta 4) any of the other French cars, along with the Fiat
Panda, which, while extremely roomy and practical is underpowered ( 900 cc
engine ).

I would definetly consider an upgrade of class to the next class or so.
European freeway speeds are higher than here, and you will feel more at ease in
the larger car on the long drives you have planned. French freeway ( misnomer,
it costs money) speed limit is 80 mph, Dutch is 60 mph, German is infinite,
etc. A VW Golf, or Opel Kadett, or Ford Escort, or Peugeot 205 will be more
stable at highway speed, and more relaxing. Mind you, the Polo has a top speed
of 100 mph and can easily be cruised at 80, but you will feel crosswinds and
uphills more acutely than in the larger car. Fuel consumption is not much
higher for larger cars.

On your trip, try fitting in Strassburg, which is along the border between
France and Germany. Apart from one of the most fantastic gothic cathedrals of
Europe, Strassburg also has an absolutely delightfyl old section, right around
the cathedral. Next to it, you will find a picture book frame house, the Maison
Kammerzell, which is also a famous restaurant. However, foray around the side
streets on the side of cathedral diagonally opposite Maison Kammerzell, after a
few yards you will find a whole group of restaurants housed in similar old
houses. Strassburg is in the Alsace, which produces some fine white wines, and
France's best beers (not neccessarily good compared to Bavarian beers. )

In Koelln, which you will probably pass, stnads another one of those immense
gothic cathedrals. Next to it is a museum on the roman artifacts found in
Germany, the Roemisch-Germanisches Museum. Next to that in turn, is a
restaurant called Berni's Nudelbrett, which features, at very reasonable
prices, some of the best italian cooking and steaks outside of Italy. Also,
check out their list of Italian wines, all personally selected by the owner.
Don't let the menu prices fool you, they include a salad, bread ( usually extra
in Europe ) and ice cream for dessert.

Franfurt's place to go in the evenings is Sachsenhausen, if it is available,
try some apple wine. Between Koelln and Mainz, or any stretch in between, try
driving the slow road along the Rhine, you will pass through some of Germany's
most well known and famous scenery and wineyards.

Oh, and while I am  at it, you are committing a mortal sin if you miss out on
the Musee du Jeu de Paume in Paris, the citie's collection of impressionist
paintings. Small, but containing some of the world's most famous paintings (
some of which are out on loan to travelling exhibitions ), this museum should
be seen before the Louvre, or in place of the Louvre if time presses. 

In Europe: no turn on right, in France red lights are often considered no more
than a polite reminder in the evening, but will get you into trouble in Germany
and other countries. DO NOT SPEED in Switzerland, avoid it in Germany, but
France is less rigid. Wise saying from wise traveller ( not me ): when in Rome,
do as the Romans.

If you intend to stop in Munich, or have any other questions on customs or
sights, do not hesitate to let me know either via E-Mail, the phone, or just by
letter. I have lived in Munich  for 10 years, and also in France, and have
travelled extensively.

				Bernard H. Schwab
				Siemens RTL, 
				105 College Rd. East
				Princeton, NJ, 08540

				work: (609) 734-6592
				home: (609) 443-4794