[Jim Doran]

I realize this is a distraction from your primary question about which car, but I think Goatless is hinting at something which deserves repeating. For those who are NOT car nerds, it is far less about the make/model and much more about the experience and unexpected thrills.

Two examples from my own family roadtrip in western US. Wife and my 2 teenagers we had rented a traverse or something. We're in the middle of nowhere south dakota and stop for pizza in small small town. We go into back for soda, luggage, etc; Someone forgets to close the back hatch. I hole shot it unknowingly at the parking lot stop sign and our entire 2 week luggage is strewn all over the intersection. 2 cops cars, numerous good samaritans amidst our new england snob embarassment. We all laugh to this day.

Next is embrace the gas station. Some are gourmet. Some, less so. But they’ve got cheap eats, classic candies, bathrooms, and fuel all in one. Stop at gas stations often, and you’re bound to hit some stellar ones. On a rainey night we had the best meal of our trip in a gas station including some 'pig pen' baked potato that for $5 the guy guaranteed we wouldn't be hungry for 48 hours. He was right and didn't sheet either.

Enjoy the trip !