ColJessip's DANK $100 special

[AHTOXA]

Yeah, I've always liked them as well.

[theholycow]

early '90s Toyota Previa

Many were mid-engine, RWD or AWD,

There's a few questions that statement leaves me wanting to ask...
"Many" were RWD/AWD? Some of that model were FWD and others weren't?
Mid-engine in a minivan? How did they do that?
"Many" were mid-engine, so some of the same model werent'?

I thought the only RWD minivans were Chevy Astro/GMC Safari and Ford Aerostar.

[Tinton]

early '90s Toyota Previa

Many were mid-engine, RWD or AWD,

There's a few questions that statement leaves me wanting to ask...
"Many" were RWD/AWD? Some of that model were FWD and others weren't?
Mid-engine in a minivan? How did they do that?
"Many" were mid-engine, so some of the same model werent'?

I thought the only RWD minivans were Chevy Astro/GMC Safari and Ford Aerostar.

Hmmm, the first generation (90/91-97) was mid-engine RWD with optional AWD. I think they skipped 98-99 and started the 2nd generation off in 2000 or something as a FF model with only slushboxes available. The first generation was interesting though because 90/91-94 they offered the cars with a 5-speed manual and I think for 94+ a supercharger too. From what I've read though, none of the USDM S/C models came with a 5-speed , so apparently the earlier ones are fun with the 5-speed+MR and the later ones are fun with the s/c and MR layout. If I were to get a family-car, I think it'd be awesome to get a later (96-97) S/C RWD Previa and swap it over to 5-speed , just check out the dorifto:


A mid-engine van puzzled me for the longest time too, they updated the wikipedia profile though, apparently the engine is positioned almost as a flat-4 under the front seats. A small panel can be opened up under the passenger seat or something and that allows replacement of spark plugs and a few other things. The main limiting factor for performance in the Previa though is in the accessories, apparently Toyota made a little driveshaft to go to the front compartment to run the accessories (waterpump, alternator, a/c, power steering, etc). Because of this a larger engine is really hard to fit in the car. I think I'd be content with just having a 5-speed RWD van though, it'd be an awesome people-mover.

Something strange also happened when I got my emissions done for my MR2. The shop I go to is pretty "lenient" when it comes to passing cars , anyways my MR2 failed pretty badly and they had to get another car on the dyno to do my test. Turned out that one of their work cars out back was a Toyota Previa, MR S/C (slush tho ) and they used it to run my emissions. That was the first time I really got to see a Previa up close, they're very interesting vans.

[theholycow]

Interesting stuff!

I think I'd be content with just having a 5-speed RWD van though, it'd be an awesome people-mover.

How about a Chevy Astro with a V8 and a 5 (or 6) speed manual? That should be feasible.

[Rope-Pusher]

Rastro?

[theholycow]

[IMBoring25]

Aerostar was RWD and available with a manual, as was the VW Microbus.

[comingbackdown]

The Villager's FWD (Twin to the Nissan Quest of its day) and a bit top heavy for a drift car, methinks (Yes, I realize you were kidding).

TRAY SLIDDEEEEEEEEEEE

YES! Always wanted to do that with John's old van, never had a working parking brake... so...

Although I'd be sorely tempted to try it with the Avenger...

After all, when it's time for new tires, those f**k are very likely going to be destroyed....

I have to be in on that... Aaron needs to do some doriftoing...

[Rope-Pusher]

Ranks Reorge!

[Leedeth]

Damn man, I would buy that if it runs. Looks like it's in good condition.

You can't buy anything that runs for $100 and if it does, it has lots of serious problems.