Piston Slap: Best Reason to Buy a Chrysler 200?

Ronald writes:

I have an hour-plus commute with light to moderate traffic that fluctuates between 50 to 70 miles per hour. Adaptive cruse control would be great, but how cheap of a used car can I find with the technology?

Sajeev answers:

My value to the Internet goes beyond Google searches. Wikipedia lists numerous vehicles that have adaptive cruise control going back to 1999, but most of those older vehicles are flagships that are too old and cost-ineffective as reliable daily drivers. Of course, you can pull off flagship ownership if you’re forum junkie, are handy with tools, and you buy parts cheaply online.

But, at what price comes relaxed motoring and when is such motoring no longer stress-free? The needle (or needles) in the haystack is found further down the list.

• 2008: Lincoln introduced radar adaptive cruise control on the 2009 Lincoln MKS.
• 2009: ACC and CMBS also became available as optional features in the model year the 2010 Acura MDX, Mid Model Change (MMC) and the newly introduced 2010 Acura ZDX.
• 2010: Jeep introduces Adaptive Cruise Control on the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee.
• 2014: Chrysler introduces full-speed-range radar Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop+ on the 2015 Chrysler 200.

Hello there!

The 2009 Lincoln MKS has potential thanks to a shared platform with the Taurus/Five Hundred. The Acura ZDX is so silly but somewhat sensible under the skin. However, it’s the Chrysler that wins on price: the 200 is a toxic piece of automotive real estate. It’s the best value for long-term ownership: your next car is a Chrysler 200.

I’ve never driven a 200, but they look nice (except the DLO FAIL). Even Jack didn’t have much to discount. I bet you could get a new one for many hundreds (or thousands?) under invoice price, enjoy favorable new car finance rates, and avoid overpriced used vehicles. This combination means looking elsewhere for active cruise control is likely a fool’s errand.

[Image: Chrysler]

Send your queries to sajeev@thetruthaboutcars.com. Spare no details and ask for a speedy resolution if you’re in a hurry…but be realistic, and use your make/model specific forums instead of TTAC for more timely advice.