With deepest regrets

[salmonz]

As much as the Yaris was fun to drive, it's time to move on. I gave her a goodbye kiss at the salvage yard. It's weird how we get emotional over our cars. I will miss this forum too. THANKS to everyone on this forum that made it very cozy and friendly to chat and get advice.

Our next car will be a 2009 Toyota Corolla S (scroll down) after spending weeks and countless nights going over specs, ads, worrying about how much we'll get from insurance, etc... etc...

The Toyota Yaris was a great starter car.

Pros on the Yaris:
1. Saved my wife's life.
2. Great on gas. I brag to everyone how great it is. 7L/100km city, 5.6 L/100km hwy.
3. Love the Sedan model.
4. Very fun to drive.
5. Maintenance was super easy.
6. Makes fitting in parking spaces a breeze.
7. Fits a tall person.

Cons:
1. A bit noisy.
2. Didn't have cruise control - my fault for not paying for it.
3. Initial acceleration is great, but lags when you get to 85km/hr.
4. Takes a bit to warm up the heat (usually 5-8 kms driving).
5. Engine is a bit weak, 106hp @ 6000rpm, 103ft torque @ 4200rpm.

Up for sale since I can't use it with the Corolla. I'll probably post this stuff on Kijiji, or msg me if your interested.
1. 4 Michelin X-Ice tires on black Toyota steelies, 15in. (will get back on tread).
2. FRAM Toughguard Synethic oil filter. I believe I have a AT filter for the Yaris too.
3. (It looks like starting with the 2009 Corolla's, they use WS AT fluid, so they're not on the auction block.)



Now on the Corolla S:
1. Many friends tell me the Corolla is a excellent well built car.
2. Specifically, the 2009 S model with skirt an moon roof looks wicked.
3. More powerful engine while keeping almost the same fuel economy as the Yaris. I passed on the XRS model because the fuel efficiency was high on my list versus absolute performance.
132hp @ 6000rpm, 128ft torque @ 4400rpm.
4. 16in (Corolla) vs 15in (Yaris).
5. The Corolla appears wider than the Yaris.
6. It's a big longer (~20cm longer).
7. This one has cruise control, :)
8. Can't find anything bad about it right now... we'll see. :)

What I need to get for the Corolla:
Winter tires. Pref Michelin X-Ice. Any good/cheap places in Ontario that's similar to tirerack's price? ($500US + shipping) + cost of rims.