The most useful car I've owned was a 1982 Dodge van with doors that opened out on the side. Loading equipment was really easy and it held a lot of stuff, including a bed so I could camp out in it if I needed to. The next car I had was a Toyota pick-up/short bed--the van was easier to load and I often regretted not being able to camp out in it, if I was loaded up with equipment. I had a canopy on the back of the truck but there just wasn't enough room for PA equipment, instruments, and me plus companions, both 2 and 4 legged. Then I got a Toyotal Celica, which has been an incredible car mileage wise but has no space to speak of. I ended up selling my PA system to pay my taxes one year so now I'm just carrying around my guitar and mandolin. Those fit ok--I've moved across the US twice in that car with all my belongings--but I am thinking of getting a different car, one that's more equipment friendly, when I have to replace the Celica. Maybe a Honda Civic? I've never been a VW fan, they always seemed too cold and prone to breaking down.

blt