Highway Driving Question

[maui]

These little cars are terrible on the highway for several reasons

1) they only have 4 speed auto boxes, and they start buzzing at about
50mph, road noise is unacceptable, some have pulled interiors and
soundproofed. Manual trans may be better.

2) even with premium 195/60/15 Michelins handling at speed is just ok
Tires help dramatically with the econobox.

3) they have very little road presence and other drivers give them little if any
respect

Have 8 years of experience with both sedan and hatch, mostly maintaining
but driving on occasion. Comparing with 5 series BMW and E class
Mercedes is not fair but even Camry was significantly better and we are
talking '03, 01, and 00 vintage.

On the positive note they handle just fine at speeds less than 50 mph and
are super easy to maneuver and park. Maintenance could not be easier
or less expensive. Great fuel economy.
With a good ceramic tint, are much nicer inside especially with dark 6"
band across top of windshield.