dude, you're just in Rome and doing what the Romans do. it's natural, a survival instinct (you need to be understood when you communicate, after all). I think there's nothing wrong with that. it doesn't change where you're from (i.e. a sane land where they know the worth of the letter "r")! i had a bit of a british/scottish accent when i was living there (or so people told me when i spoke to them on the phone), but it made me better understood, so what the heck? but i still reserve the right to make fun of you if i catch you doing it! :)

as for cars, i really don't know, but it's too bad Toyota stopped making Paseo's in the early 90's -- i love my hatchback. not a whole heap of power but you can always use a lower gear if you're craving more zoom... :)