SUSPECTED CHEAP SALES TACTIC IS JUST THAT

RAY: For instance, if you live in Portland, Ore., you may be willing to give up a mile or two per gallon to be able to stop better in the rain.

TOM: If you live in Minnesota, it may be worth a couple of mpg to get better traction in the snow.

RAY: Or, if you live near us, it may be worth a small reduction in mileage to soften up the potholes and reduce the number of welts on your head from bouncing up and hitting the roof.

TOM: But in any case, you've got plenty of choices, George, and plenty of competition for your business. Good luck.

Tom and Ray offer a strategy for everyone who's shopping for a car. Find yours in their pamphlet "Should I Buy, Lease, or Steal My Next Car?" Send $4.75 (check or money order) to Next Car, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475.

Get more Click and Clack in their new book, "Ask Click and Clack: Answers from Car Talk." Got a question about cars? Write to Click and Clack in care of this newspaper, or email them by visiting the Car Talk website at www.cartalk.com.

Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

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