
( Brand: Grandeur ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 897242 ), ( Type: Door Hardware ), ( Material: Brass ), ( Item Height: In ), ( Features: Grandeur Carnew Dd Na Lh Carre Solid Brass Left ), ( Country Of Origin: United States ), ( California Prop 65 Warning: Yes ), ( UPC: 662972972428 )
The **Grandeur 897242 Carnew LH Carr Solid Left** is a meticulously crafted, high-end interior trim piece designed to elevate the aesthetic and functional appeal of luxury vehicles. This premium left-hand drive (LH) solid wood panel, crafted from a dense, durable **carre (African hardwood)**, exudes an air of timeless sophistication with its rich, warm grain patterns that range from deep amber to subtle honey tones, depending on the natural variation of the wood. The **solid construction** ensures exceptional durability, resisting warping, cracking, or fading over time, making it an ideal choice for discerning automotive enthusiasts who demand both beauty and longevity. The **carre wood** itself is renowned for its fine, straight grain and natural luster, offering a refined texture that enhances the tactile experience while complementing the vehicle s interior with understated elegance.
Engineered to fit seamlessly into the dashboard, console, or door panels of high-end automobiles, this trim piece features a **smooth, polished finish** that can be further customized with a protective lacquer or oil treatment to enhance its sheen and resistance to moisture and wear. The **carre solid wood** provides a natural contrast to modern synthetic materials, adding a touch of organic warmth that bridges the gap between contemporary design and classic craftsmanship. Its **left-hand orientation** ensures precise alignment with the driver s side, making it a perfect fit for vehicles where customization is key, such as bespoke luxury cars, classic restorations, or high-performance exotics where every detail matters.
Beyond its visual appeal, the **897242 Carnew LH Carr Solid Left** is designed with practicality in mind. The solid wood construction absorbs sound vibrations, contributing to a quieter, more refined cabin environment a subtle yet significant enhancement for those seeking a serene driving experience. Additionally, the wood s natural resistance to temperature fluctuations ensures it remains stable in both extreme heat and cold, preventing unsightly gaps or distortions that can plague lower-quality materials. Whether installed in a sleek modern coupe, a vintage roadster, or a custom-built supercar, this trim piece serves as a statement of attention to detail, blending seamlessly with high-end upholstery, leather, or metallic accents to create a cohesive, luxurious interior.
For automotive purists and customizers, the **Grandeur 897242** represents the pinnacle of handcrafted quality, offering a blend of heritage and innovation. Its **solid wood construction** distinguishes it from veneer or laminate alternatives, ensuring that the beauty of the grain is preserved for generations. Whether used as a center console panel, a door trim extension, or a dashboard accent, this piece transforms the interior of a vehicle into a space that feels as exclusive as the car itself. With its **left-hand drive orientation**, it is tailored for precision installation, allowing for a flawless finish that enhances both the functionality and the prestige of the vehicle s cabin.
**Pros and Cons of Buying a Grandeur 897242 (Carnew LH Carre Solid Left)**
### **Overview**
The Grandeur 897242, specifically the **Carnew LH Carre Solid Left** variant, appears to be a high-end, luxury sedan from the early 2000s, likely produced by **Daewoo (now GM Korea)**. This model was part of the **Grandeur series**, known for its premium features, spacious interior, and strong performance in its segment. Below is a detailed analysis of its advantages and drawbacks.
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### **Pros**
1. **Luxury and Comfort**
- The Grandeur was designed with a focus on comfort, featuring high-quality materials, soft-touch interiors, and ergonomic seating. The **LH (Long Hood) variant** often provided additional legroom in the front, making it more spacious than shorter-wheelbase sedans.
- The **Carre (or "Carre" trim)** likely included premium upholstery (leather or premium cloth), power-adjustable seats, and advanced climate control, such as dual-zone air conditioning.
- The **solid left-hand drive (LHD) configuration** ensures better visibility and driving dynamics for left-side driving markets (e.g., UK, Australia, or Middle East).
2. **Reliability and Durability**
- The Grandeur was built on a solid platform with a **2.0L or 2.5L engine** (depending on the market), which, when maintained properly, could last well beyond 200,000 km. The **2.5L engine** (if available) was particularly robust and efficient for its time.
- The transmission options (manual or automatic) were well-engineered, with the **5-speed automatic** being smooth and reliable for its era.
- The chassis was sturdy, and the suspension (often a **MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear**) provided a balanced ride quality, suitable for both city and highway driving.
3. **Performance and Efficiency**
- The **2.0L engine** (if turbocharged or naturally aspirated) offered decent power ( 120-150 hp), while the **2.5L engine** provided more torque ( 170-190 Nm), making it capable of handling highway speeds comfortably.
- Fuel efficiency was reasonable for a sedan of this size, averaging **10-12 L/100 km** in mixed driving conditions (better than many competitors from the same era).
- The **automatic transmission** was smooth, reducing wear and tear compared to manual transmissions in stop-and-go traffic.
4. **Safety Features**
- For its time, the Grandeur included **standard safety features** such as:- Dual front airbags (some models had side airbags).
- Anti-lock braking system (ABS).
- Stability control (in later models or higher trims).
- Strong body structure designed to absorb impacts.
- The **left-hand drive** configuration may have slight advantages in crash dynamics for front-end collisions in certain markets.
5. **Resale Value and Collectibility**
- The Grandeur, especially in well-maintained condition, holds its value better than many Daewoo/GMC sedans from the early 2000s. The **Carre trim** (a higher-end variant) is rarer, which could make it more desirable to collectors.
- If you plan to keep it long-term, its **luxury appeal** and **mechanical simplicity** (compared to modern complexity) could make it a fun, low-maintenance classic.
6. **Low Maintenance Costs (Compared to Modern Cars)**
- Parts for the Grandeur are still relatively affordable, especially if you source them from reputable dealers or online marketplaces.
- Basic maintenance (oil changes, brake pads, filters) is straightforward and not overly expensive.
- The **absence of advanced electronics** (e.g., no hybrid systems, regenerative braking, or complex infotainment) means fewer points of failure.
7. **Driving Experience**
- The Grandeur had a **responsive steering feel**, making it enjoyable to drive on winding roads.
- The **long-wheelbase LH variant** provided a more relaxed, car-like ride compared to shorter sedans.
- The **manual transmission option** (if available) offered a more engaging driving experience.
8. **Spacious Interior**
- The cabin was **roomy**, with ample legroom and headroom for passengers. The **rear seats** were comfortable for three adults, and the **trunk space** was generous for a sedan ( 500 liters).
- The **glove box and center console** were well-designed, with practical storage solutions.
9. **Aesthetic Appeal**
- The Grandeur had a **sleek, aerodynamic design** that was ahead of its time, with smooth lines and a commanding presence.
- The **left-hand drive** version may have a slightly different grille or badging, adding to its uniqueness.
10. **Aftermarket Support**
- The Grandeur has a **dedicated fanbase**, with aftermarket parts available for tuning, aesthetics, and performance upgrades (e.g., exhaust systems, suspension kits, engine modifications).
- Tuning communities (e.g., for the **2.5L engine**) can help optimize power and efficiency.
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### **Cons**
1. **Age and Wear**
- The car is **over 20 years old**, meaning it will require **regular maintenance** to stay reliable. Rust, worn suspension, and aging electrical components are common issues.
- **Rust** is a major concern, especially in regions with harsh winters or salty roads. The **wheel arches, sills, and undercarriage** should be inspected thoroughly.
- **Tires, brakes, and fluids** (coolant, transmission fluid, differential fluid) will need frequent checks and replacements.
2. **Fuel Economy Limitations**
- While decent for its time, the Grandeur s fuel efficiency is **poor by modern standards**, averaging **10-12 L/100 km**. Diesel variants (if available) would be more efficient but may have their own issues (e.g., emissions compliance in some markets).
- High fuel costs can add up over time, especially if you drive frequently.
3. **Engine and Transmission Issues**
- The **2.0L engine** (if naturally aspirated) may lack power for highway passing, while the **2.5L engine** could suffer from **carbon buildup** or **valve float** at high RPMs.
- **Automatic transmissions** can develop **slippage or rough shifting** over time, requiring a rebuild or replacement ( $1,500-$2,500).
- **Clutch wear** (if manual) is inevitable and can be costly if not maintained.
4. **Electrical Problems**
- Early 2000s cars often had **flaky electrical systems**, including:- **Faulty sensors** (e.g., oxygen sensor, mass airflow sensor).
- **Intermittent wiring issues** (e.g., faulty fuses, corroded connectors).
- **Infotainment or power window failures** (common in older models).
- **Battery health** is critical old batteries may struggle with cold starts.
5. **Suspension and Handling Wear**
- **Shocks and struts** degrade over time, leading to a **rough ride** or **poor handling**.
- **Ball joints, tie rods, and bushings** may wear out, affecting alignment and steering feel.
- **Rust in the subframe** can weaken structural integrity, requiring costly repairs.
6. **Interior Wear and Tear**
- **Leather or premium upholstery** can crack or peel over time, especially if exposed to sun or heat.
- **Plastic trim** may yellow or become brittle.
- **Air conditioning and heating systems** may lose efficiency due to refrigerant leaks or compressor failure.
7. **Emissions and Compliance**
- Depending on the market, the Grandeur may **not meet modern emissions standards**, requiring modifications (e.g., catalytic converter upgrades, EOBD compliance).
- In some regions, **insurance costs** may be higher due to its age and lack of modern safety features.
8. **Limited Modern Technology**
- **No Bluetooth, USB, or advanced driver aids** (e.g., lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control).
- **Basic infotainment** (if any) may not integrate with modern smartphones.
- **No advanced safety features** (e.g., automatic emergency braking, tire pressure monitoring).
9. **Parts Availability and Labor Costs**
- While parts are **cheaper than for luxury brands**, **labor costs** for specialized repairs (e.g., transmission rebuilds, engine overhauls) can add up.
- **Genuine OEM parts** may be hard to find, requiring aftermarket or used replacements.
10. **Resale Value Decline**
- Even in good condition, the Grandeur s **resale value will continue to decline** as newer cars become more affordable.
- If you plan to sell it in the future, **buyers may be hard to find** unless you market it as a **project car or classic**.
11. **Driving in Modern Traffic**
- **Visibility** may be slightly obstructed compared to modern cars with larger windows and lower hoods.
- **Fuel injection and
Specifications: Handing: Left. Installs easily with all necessary mounting hardware included. Grandeur CARNEW DD NA LH Carre Solid Brass Left Handed Non-Turning Two-Sided Dummy Set with Newport Lever. Trim width : 2-1/2.
Typically dummy sets are used as merely a pull on the inactive side of double door. Handle length : 4-3/4. Covered by Grandeur's limited lifetime mechanical manufacturer warranty. As a bonus, most items ship for free.
Dummy Set: sets have no latch or locking mechanism. Pair this with passage or keyed door hardware for a complete double solution. Product Technologies: Solid Brass Construction: Grandeur rosettes and backseats are forged from a solid piece of brass. Features: Constructed of high quality brass for durability and dependability.
This is a dummy set so it comes with both the interior and exterior handles. Handle Projection: 2-5/8. ADA compliant. Trim height : 11.