[BARC-List] Yaesu FT100D, ATAS-100, and 1997 Ford Escort Sedan?

[Scott Ehrlich]

Hello to all:

I have a 1997 Ford Escort Sedan purchased new in July 1996 and after a
recent cleaning, figured I could get an HF/VHF/UHF rig in there by storing
it in the glove compartment.   My first thought for a radio was the
FT-100D, as I'm a big Yaesu fan.

I presently have two mag-mount antennas on the truck, as I strongly prefer
not to drill, and I don't want to put one on the roof as it would look
ugly.

I'm thinking of the ATAS-100 'tenna/tuner system, and am wondering if a
trunk-lip would work ok?   Or, if adding a trailor hitch would make
financial sense, if only to get a better SWR if the HF antenna were to go
there?

The car runs fine, but the extended warranty coverage runs out soon, so if
things do start to break down after the warranty, I'm going to strongly
consider a new car.

What are people's thoughts/experiences?

I live in the Boston, MA area, and do mostly city driving.

Any/all insights would be most appreciated.

Thanks.

Scott, WY1Z