After driving for 30 or more miles on the 405, I could not walk normally
because of back aches felt. I don't have this problem with the 505
wagon. Must be seat shape/ support and driving position related.
The 405 with an automatic has better acceleration than the 505 wagon
with a 5 speed. Surprisingly, the big 505 wagon gets better fuel
economy than the 405, 27 mpg for the 505 vs 26 for the 405. This is
unbelievable considering the wagon is at least a 1000 lbs heavier.
The 405's ride is very twitchy compared to the wagon. You feel every
road irregularity. The wagon, with it's long wheel base, soakes up
every bump in stride. There is no comparison in ride comfort. The 405
on the other hand will outhandle the wagon in the twisties.
Driving the 405, my right knee is an inch from the lower plastic cover
of the steering column. This plastic cover unfortunately is not rounded
but has a sharp corner that lines up directly with my knee cap. I
occasionally bump into it. In a front end collision no matter how slow,
the knee will hit this sharp corner and it's going to hurt like hell.
On this point alone I'm going to sell the 405. It will appear in the
next issue of Bargain News, the local CT want ad.
Steve