Evo Forum

[FJF]

Originally Posted by superflyjmysnk

I'm asking you to identify what parameters do you judge the comparative quality of plastics?

The way it feels ( the tactile sensation), how it doesn't distort under the slightest pressure, no scratches/discoloration when rubbed against and/or pressed, no squeaks that are easily apparent upon a slight touch, its perceived density, the (tactile) "solidity" of the product and its appearance. I would tell you to compare the Lancer's plastics to the CT9A's, as you have both, but clearly that's no use.

At the risk of stating the brutally obvious, my comments should not matter, given your preferences. It really seems like you want to argue, but I don't know about what. All plastics are same to you.

The "I know quality when I see it" is opinion, so what makes the plastic cheap in your opinion, considering that all plastic with the exception of military/specialty ballistics polymers are in the most part, cheap.

Cheap or inexpensive? There's a big difference between the two. I tried to reply to your question above and I did it to the best of my ability. I still have no idea why you keep going on with this, since you do not see a difference in quality of plastic trim, period.

You have indicated that you can determine between cheap plastic and premium plastic, so how is this determined? What criterion allows this determination?

In addition to what was said, it's a comparative determination.

The only difference between the evo and the lancer is the exterior side styling of the plastic, if you where to look at the back of the pieces you would see it is the same weight thickness, etc, however you feel there is a huge difference in quality. I'm just trying to figure out how you determined this.

You mean to tell me, as a self-proclaimed engineer, that you completely discount such factors as composition and makeup, and molding practices and design as playing a part in the quality equation? That's just ridiculous.

My personal experience with plastics is limited to doing production planning for a multi-million dollar injection molding plant. Even though I was not directly involved with the engineering aspects of the operation, I did see the pricing as well as the specs. Both greatly depended on which (grade) pellets, as well as their proportion, that were used to mold the piece. For whatever reason, your rationale hinges on the thickness of the piece. As an example, a 1/4" piece of rolled steel stock an be made very rigid or no more supportive than its original cut allowed, depending on the way it's shaped. Same thickness, different properties. I have to wonder which engineer is not aware of the other constrains that make that variable almost moot.

I can tell the difference in the quality of interior parts, using plastic is cost effective, using higher end trims pieces such as carbon fiber, aluminum, laminate wood,leather, etc cost more.

Whoa, please don't play games with me. As tempting as it may have been do otherwise, I've replied to your comments respectfully, so please don't insult my intelligence with this disingenuous, obfuscatory drivel. I don't know why you felt the need to divert attention from your own words, but the fact remains that you see all interior plastics as being identical. It's like asking to explain the value of a Stradivarius to someone for whom all violins sound alike.

Let's try this. I hereby retract my comments and boldly declare that the new Lancer's interior (plastics) quality is on par or better than a $15K VW Rabbit, a $17K Civic, or the outgoing CT9A. Of course, that's nothing more than wishful thinking at best or an outright lie at worst, but as long as you're happy....