Have to say I'm disappointed. Maybe I got a lemon?

Author's Rating:

Pros: Pretty package, relatively good computer when it's working. POOR cooling leads to hard drive failures!!!

Cons: Hard Drive Failures, Short Battery Life, No Hardware Volume Control, Easily Scratched Cover

The Bottom Line: 
Don't recommend due to heat/hardware failure. It's a great computer when it runs. Beautiful & Fast. Just not reliable.

Author's Review
It had EVERYTHING I felt I wanted in a compact, light package: (13" W x 10.7" D x 1.2" and 6.64 lbs). For the money (I paid around $1800.00 for it) the most robust and upgradeable computer at a price I could afford & a weight I can lug around town without feeling like I'm carrying around a load of bricks.
Here's what I wish it had: Better cooling--it's rather hot operating. A hardware volume control--would be easier to control the sound at startup if I could turn it down by hardware instead of a combination of keys. A bit more scratch-resistant finish--the red (clear coat looking) lid is GORGEOUS, but it is VERY easy to scratch. Still looks great, but there are quite a few shallow scratches on the lid after only a few months.
WELL, I have to change my rating. I'm currently trying to backup data in what I think is ANOTHER hard drive crash! I've had TWO since I bought this just 17 months ago!!!
One was in warranty, but now I'll probably have to fork out some bucks for a new hard drive and try to get all my settings and data restored to it.
I'm one weary & disappointed Acer Customer.
If you DO decide to buy one of these laptop PLEASE BUY AN EXTENDED WARRANTY for at least 3 years! You'll be glad you did!!!