FW: The Tale of Two Fords

---

Within 24 hours of turning in a Ford Focus at the SLC airport I rented a Ford Fusion in Mesa for a trip to California. Hence a little critique. The Focus seated four adults comfortably. The trunk was surprisingly large for an economy car. It was a peppy performer around town. Freeway passing was adequate but did not exactly fill you with confidence. Engine noise at freeway speeds was almost nonexistent which was pleasant for a four cylinder. The trip computer lead me to believe I was getting 42/44 mpg SLC to Rexburg. A gas top off on the way back proved to be closer to 38/39 mpg. This was at 70/80 mph so I was pleasantly surprised at that.

The Fusion SEL was not only pleasing to look on it was sporty to drive. This was the first time I had driven a car with a six speed automatic. This tranny seemed to always be in the right place at the right time to keep you on top of your driving game. This Ford delivered 26/27 mpg at 70/80 mph which is good but not at all outstanding for this size of car. The gold standard for full size cars remains the Chevy Impala which has always gotten me [+] [-] 30 mpg. at fwy speeds.

Conclusion; The Focus exceeded my expectations for an economy car but the Fusion was actually fun to drive.

Well there you have it, All the information you didn't ask for but got anyway.  EB

FW:

Dear Friends

Having grown up in what I assumed were the most beautiful rocky mountains in the West last week I went to Colorado. I friend of mine talked me into helping him painting a 6000 s.f. lodge. at 10,200 ft elevation between Silverton and Ouray. At this elevation I had to catch my breath climbing between the basement and the main floor of the house. The Aspen groves were so thick that from a distance it looked like you could mow them with a lawn mower. Water was busting out of the mountains and cascading over the rocks at every turn. The road on the "Million Dollar Highway had no guard rail so the snow could be plowed over the edge to a dizzing drop below. Within a half of a mile of the lodge there were a half a dozen abandoned gold and siver mines. Water was reluctant to boil at this altitude for cooking. After the second day we ran out of ice for the coolers so we put the milk in the back of the toilet which was spring fed from above the house.
The electricity came from solar panels with a backup propane generator.

For a long time desert rat this was this was most soothing to the eyes and soul.

Errol

---