I agree with Mark as to what has happened to this group. It comes in waves, and when the immature n00bs get pissed, the go over to FCO and Dom has to deal with them (sorry Dom
)
For us true veterans (4+ years), it is very frustrating to have all these young bucks prancing about like they know what the hell they are talking about. Granted, age has nothing to do with knowledge (I'm only 30).
However, as Mark pointed out, these cars aren't getting any newer or more expensive, so they are more prone to fall into the hands of first time drivers, high schoolers, etc. This is a logical progression. I'm sure on some of the BMW boards, there are some punk ass kids on there that picked up a 1984 318i or something cheap and are trying to hobnob with the Z8,M5/6 peeps. We are lucky that CEG is model specific!
I'm sure that people can dig up numerous rants from me about this same topic. Hell, I was even on hiatus for a while because of it. Believe me, it put things into perspective (IT'S JUST A DAMN CAR!!)
I happen to be very fond of my 98 GL Sport. So much that I have modded the crap out of it (and intend to mod plenty more). For me, it is a true hobby (which is even a tax write-off!) just like computers and making beer.
While it is good to remember the good old days, this group needs to evolve if it's going to survive. The platform deserves at least that much. Heck, look at FastCougar.com!
I think there needs to be some kind of notation as to what members have purchased their Contour/Mystique when it was new from the factory (or at least had one purchased new). That way, n00bs can STFU and listen once in a while
Peace,
-Chris
