Review written on 6/1948.
Some say we're never kind enough to Gordon-Brull. Face it, we don't pull our punches when it comes to vehicle reviews. Just look at what we call the 8019. That doesn't mean we don't sing praises when someone makes a good Hatchback like the Apple Fritter. So where does the L8686 stand in the Hatchback segment? After spending a few days with the L8686. We have made our judgment.
Normally we take the vehicles out to the track as our first test. And to be honest we tried, but the Gordon-Brull L8686 is so slow that it took us nearly 3 hours just getting out of the parking lot.
And that shows you how dreadful this Hatchback is. The 26 hp @ 2252RPMs 1109 cc I4 engine is grossly underpowered. Interestingly enough if you waited all week you could power the L8686 up to a top speed of 49 mph and accelerate full throttle with a Not Applicable time. The engine puts out 50 lb-ft of torque making it able to tow 859 lbs which is average for this class. On the track you can tell that the Gordon-Brull L8686 is above average when it comes to handling and driveability. Most Hatchback would not be able to keep up with the L8686 on twisty and windy roads. It can almost put a smile on your face. So in a nut shell the L8686 is as slow as a rock. The only way to make it move is to push it off a cliff.
Once we were done playing on the track, we got a good look at the Gordon-Brull L8686 and I must say, we were quite impressed. While not the most luxurious vehicle on the market. It is quite comfortable for what it is. There is just enough styling and support to last on long trips and impress friends, while not being overly expensive like hyper luxurious vehicles.
Inside the Gordon-Brull L8686 it feels like they could add an extra row of seats. There is enough room to even lay down, which is amazing! The 34 cu-ft of cargo and passenger space ensures that you always have plenty of room to do whatever it is you need to do. And that makes us happy.
The Gordon-Brull L8686 was made by below average workers, using below average materials, for a below average company. What do you expect the vehicle quality to be?
I imagine it'll be rare to find a Gordon-Brull L8686 in repair shops or even junk yards. These things are well built with quality parts. And that will show in the long run.
Whether or not the Gordon-Brull L8686 is an energy company conspiracy or not is up for debate. What is certain is the L8686 awful fuel mileage of 20.9 mpg will certainly drive up energy stocks!
In some sense the Gordon-Brull L8686 reminds us of an over protective parent. One that wraps you in damage proof forcefield that prevents all interaction with the outside world. While the L8686 isn't that safe. It is still quite comforting to know that nothing can hurt you.
In the end the Gordon-Brull L8686 provide decent value for the money. It's not the best car in the Hatchback segment, but it won't disappoint. You could do a lot worse. If this model appeals to you I see no reason to dissuade you from it.