I had a push-button automatic as my first car....

>>> Gavin Scott <[log in to unmask]> 01/16/03 06:19PM >>>
Tom writes:
> >>  26. Head lights dimmer switches on the floor.
> first few family cars had those -- I think that went till the mid 70's,
> early 80's[...]

Didn't the original VW beetle have this?

> >>  27. Ignition switches on the dashboard.
> seen in movies only [so I guess that counts as "told about"]

A fair number of current models seem to have the ignition key inserted into
the dashboard rather than the steering column, and at least one or two have
a separate starter button on the dashboard (very retro).

It's getting rarer for the "ignition" switch or the "start" position of the
key switch to engage the ignition system or starter motor directly.  In many
cases the "starter" switch seems to be simply a request to the engine to
start itself.  In some cars you can momentarily close the switch and then
release it as the engine management computer engages the starter motor and
manages fuel flow, fuel injection, etc. for as long as required to achieve
engine start.

> >>  31. Soldering irons you heat on a gas burner.

Hence the "iron" in the name.

> >>  32. Using hand signals for cars without turn signals.
> I think this is still taught, but rarely tested by the DMV

I believe it is still tested in California (and I believe you will generally
fail the test if you neglect to roll down the window before demonstrating
the arm signals when requested :-)

G.

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