[lincpimp]

You guys both have valid points, can't we all just get along?! (that was lame, I know.)

In any case, if you buy a used s8 it will most likely be one that is in the country, and for sale by either the current owner or a dealership. Both ways mean that the money stays in the country. A well maintained car for 20k is an ok purchase, for 100k you would have to be nut (or rich and very bored). Nothing against vw/audi, but they are no betterthan any other modern family car save for some specs, and some of their construction techniques are questionable (i do have to put these cars back together after they are smashed!)

I look at a simple design as one that will last and perform well. Overly complex designs that are poorly carried out (space shuttle) do not fair very well in the real world. The japanese make a decent product that is simple most of the time (they can't make an interior door handle to svae their lives though). Their materials are definately infersior to american made materials (steel especially).

In the used car market, maintanence is the most expensive running cost. That ismy main reason for american purchases, next to be a partiot (!). Look at the cost of replacement parts and you will see that even lincoln parts are about 1/2 the cost (average) than corolla parts (toyota parts are too expensive IMO). That is why my previous vehicle was a lincoln, not a lexus.

It all boils down to what you want, as our western society places too much importance on vehicle ownership. Can't be successful without a nice car right?!