Review written on 5/1954.
The media has blown a lot of smoke over the last few months over Philadelphia Motors's new Sedan. It has stiff competition though from market leaders like the Republique and even the bottom feeders like the 6765. Does the Independence live up to the hype? Find out more below!
Even though the Philadelphia Motors Independence wasn't designed for it, our first test was the track. Right away we knew this Sedan was an under performer. The 70 hp @ 4712RPMs 1539 cc Flat2 engine was too weak to move us around the track at any decent speed. This lackluster combination could only bring us to a top speed of 73 mph and on the strip do 39.215s 0 to 60 mph acceleration. The engine puts out 63 lb-ft of torque which can haul 22 lbs. The Philadelphia Motors Independence sticks to the road like burnt eggs on a frying pan. The handling characteristics of the Independence puts it in the top tier of Sedan.
Once track testing was over it came time to look at the Philadelphia Motors Independence's interior. We found that it was very bare bones. So much so that we could not stand to be in it for long. It seems Philadelphia Motors was trying to make something retro by filling the vehicle with decades old styling and gadgets. We recommend looking at other vehicles if you plan on buying a long range vehicle.
The Philadelphia Motors Independence gives you a sense of home away from home. With 43 cu-ft of cargo and passenger space the Independence feels like a second living room. Which was what Philadelphia Motors was probably thinking when they made this vehicle. "Lets make a vehicle that people could live in." Well Philadelphia Motors thank you, because after my wife threw me out, this is my new home. And let me tell you, it rocks!
While not exactly handmade, Philadelphia Motors did put a bit of extra work into the Independence and it shows. Panels actually fit and are made to last. The finish doesn't fade in the sun, and all the bolts have washers. It begs the question why buy a lower quality car every 5 years, and not buy the Philadelphia Motors Independence which should last a few generations?
The Philadelphia Motors Independence was designed with longevity in mind. The vehicle is sturdy and easy to maintain. It will last as long as you want it.
While the Philadelphia Motors Independence isn't the most economical vehicle, it is better than most. At 22.7 mpg, the Independence is fairly close to average. If fuel economy is a major concern of yours, we would recommend another vehicle. Otherwise, it shouldn't be much of a factor in your decision.
You could really tell the engineers at Philadelphia Motors designed the Independence to save lives. This vehicle not only reduces the risk of being killed in it, but reduces the risk of being killed from it. This vehicle should be looked at as a marvel of preventative engineering.
The Philadelphia Motors Independence fits the mold of your prototypical Sedan. It meets all the necessary requirements of being a good Sedan and at times is quite enjoyable. It may not be the best. But it is still a good Sedan.