Geraint Edwards wrote: > I have no problems accessing the main site using Moz 0.9.5 for Linux > (note that I have not got Java installed). > > They are using Java for an interactive map as part of the results when > you do a search. Since DHTML would really struggle to offer similar > functionality I think this is fair enough. > > Have you tried enabling Java?
I'm using Mozilla 0.9.5, and I have Java enabled, although I'm using JDK 1.4beta3. I don't think any website should deny you access based on a browser check, JVM version check, or anything similar for that matter. A warning that some features might not work along with links to "compatible" browsers is acceptable, but then it should be up to you to choose your threshold of pain. I would accept the search application not working since I'm using a beta JVM, but there is non-Java content on that site that I might want - for example the feedback page! As for the Java functionality, I actually like Java, but I think its use is gratuitous on cars.com and actually gets in the way (if my memory serves me correctly). For one thing, the applet is not resizable, nor are its fonts - a problem on higher-resolution monitors. For another, you're unable to view the photo enlargement in a new window - which means you have to reload the search applet after viewing a photo. In any case, the silver lining is that I did find autotrader.com, which offers much of the same functionality but is HTML-based. :-)
