CHOICE OF CLOSED CAR.

Hawera Star, Volume XLVI, 7 August 1926, Page 15

CHOICE OF CLOSED CAR.

There is a wide divergence of opinion as to which is the best type of enclosed car, but when the types, are divided into three categories it is much easier to come to a decision. first, take the case of the owner-driver. In practically every instance wheie a foui or five-seater is required, he desires a type, of body that enables him to carry on conversation with the other occupants, and in this case there is not the slightest doubt that the saloon lias an overwhelming popularity in this respect. Some still pin their faith to the all-weather, as it. enables the car to be opened on tine days, but taking it all round this type is gradually going out on account of the fact that, with a tow exceptions, rattles develop in a very short time. We, therefore, come to the conclusion that for the average ownerdriver there is no type of enclosed car that can rival the saloon, both on the score of economy and general utility. Secondly, there is the type that is equally suitable to bo driven by an owner or ekaffeur. In this case opinion is about equally' divided between the on closed-drive limousine, and the enclosed drive landaulet, although as a town and touring carriage the latter would appear to be the most popular of the two. Both types, however, offer practically all the advantages of the saloon, more particularly when the glass panel forming the dividing partition is operated by a mechanical lifter, and can be wound down into the partition on the back of the driver’s seat. The enclosed laundaulet, of course, has also the advantage inasmuch as the head can be folded back. On the other hand, the extra rigidity of the limousine has much to commend it. Thirdly, there is the coupe suitable for two or four persons. The latter is really nothing more or less than an all-weather body, and, although attractive in appearance, it is by v no means a popular type. There are several kinds of coupe—fixed head, folding head, three-quarter with iixed and folding heads, and .saloon. Of these we should say that the three-quarter type with folding head, if not the most popular, is the most attractive, and w.ul in a very short time be easily the leading vehicle in its category. Considerable discretion should be exercised in the choice of au euclosed car. Amongst other things see that the doors are properly liung; pay particular attention to the mouldings; sec that the windscreen is a good lit, and not likely to let water into the interior; and, in the case of landaulcts and other typos with folding heads, make a close scrutiny as to the quality of the material, and the design of the various joints that are likely to cause rattle.