need help with convertible seat in our '91 Mazda

[Unregistered]

Hi-our DD is 28" and 18.5 lbs at 4.5 months, so we need to get her into a convertible seat PDQ. We borrowed a Dorel Eddie Bauer 3-in-1 to try it out, but it's way too big for our car (a '91 Mazda 626). The back seat of our car has a slight bump in the centre, so I think we're going to need a seat with a smaller base in order for it to fit. Because she's so tall already, I think the Britax Marathon is going to be the best choice for us (and the comfort factor would be great since she likes to scream in her carseat), but I'm wondering if we need to spend so much when all car seats have to meet the same safety standards. Of course, with enough evidence in its favour, we'd have no problem spending the big bucks for the Britax :) From what I've read on this board, it seems the Graco Comfortsport is not well regarded-it was our second choice. Can anyone offer ideas on what would work for us? Thanks!

[CDNTech]

I would definitley get a Marathon in your situation.

It may seem like big bucks now, but picture spending money on that ComfortSport (or any other convertible on the market) and then in another year or so spending another $150 on a combination seat. You've just spent more than the Marathon and didn't get any of the bells and whistles that make it such a great seat.

The Marathon has non-twist straps, is super comfy, installs easily, has the RFing tethering capability and will last your child until about age 5. It also has built-in lock-offs, so no messing with locking clips! Huge plus with the vehicle you own. Then you just get a belt positioning booster and you're done.

My 2.5 yr old has already outgrown the ComfortSport... he has oodles of room left in a Marathon (he's on the second slots for rearfacing and he's in the third slots with about an inch before he reaches them for forwardfacing).

My 5.5 yr old outgrew the Marathon by height just before his 5th birthday... but he is *very* tall with a long torso.