Originally posted by Lady's Human
Get very familiar with the product. Start picking up copies of Automobile or Car and Driver, and read them cover to cover.

When people ask you about the Ford 500 (not the prettiest piece of sheet metal on the road, but a VERY well engineered car) Just remind them that it's a Volvo but they're getting it at about $10,000 less than the Volvo. The 500 is a Volvo Sedan with Ford design and a ford engine/Transmission.

Fords are good vehicles (there are really no BAD vehicles anymore, the trash has been weeded out by competition), but Ford Motor Credit is a nightmare to deal with from a customer standpoint.
Yeah, I plan to read up as much as I can. I have access to both magazines, and, the internet.

I actually think the Five Hundred is attractive. It's really roomy and safe and has a giant trunk. It's definitely attracting attention, but, beauty certainly is in the eyes of the beholder.

That sucks that you had such a bad time with Ford Motor Credit, I never had anything but good customer service when I was paying for my Escort. And, I agree with you about the no BAD vehicles thing for the most part, too.

Thanks again everyone for such thoughtful advice!