I like ABS and wouldn't buy a car without it. Having said that, I
drove in the snow many years without it. Until a few years ago, nearly
all the cars on the road did not have ABS. ABS is not magic; it
doesn't take the place of good winter driving skills. It is a
wonderful invention, but like four wheel / all wheel drive, I think
people sometimes count on it too much.

If you like the Camry and its amenities including ABS, it may be worth
the few thousand to trade up. I would certainly not do this just to
get ABS.

As others have mentioned, I think the ownership pattern is strange and
would make me a bit suspicious. Most 2002 models are one owner cars.

Good luck.


On 14 Jan 2004 08:20:04 -0800, bcnewsgroups@yahoo.com (Bryan Canter)
wrote:

>Thank you, ladies and gentlemen for the responses so far.
>
>Interesting point there by Keith J saying snow tires and driving
>carefully would serve me well in the lack of ABS. I never thought of
>that. Lack of ABS is the only reason I want to *replace* my car (most
>other annoyances can be fixed). Of course I didn't want to pay the
>dealership extra $$$$ for trade-in so my wife mentioned searching
>classifieds for a private party sale.
>
>But I would happily keep my Honda if I were to get ABS in it. If snow
>tires are near as safe, then by all means, I would start researching
>today. (Of course there are some more amenities in the Camry so I was
>thinking if I get the car for about $12,500 and sell mine for about
>$9,000, then that is about 3.5 grand for ABS, sound system and a newer
>model car. I have an appointment for this Saturday and I will decide
>based on what it looks and feels like.)
>
>So, snow tires would help me brake and even drive better in winter?
>They may not be close to ABS and 4WD but would they have a significant
>impact? I think they are definitely worth it because this is my only
>vehicle and my wife drives it too. And I am always worried when she
>is out driving in this winter with my 3 year old.
>
>Best regards and stay warm.