Tappan's big, nostalgic-looking TGF657BFB gas range is attracting a legion of new fans. Drawn to its large size, chrome finish and affordable price tag, many shoppers are finding value in what was long anticipated to become a passe model.

Indeed, the TGF657BFB offers a lot of range for the price. It includes an expansive self-cleaning oven, as well as electronic ignition and touch controls. The cooking surface gives you the option of either four or five burners, and it even sports a big pancake-friendly griddle. In its black-and-chrome version ($999), the TGF657BFB is pop-culture perfect in a 1950's diner sort of way.

Unfortunately, that's where the advantages of this model end. Technologically, this big gas range wasn't quite left in the 1950's, but it certainly never got beyond the 1970's. Take a look at the TGF657BFB in its white or bisque finishes, and you'll suddenly see it as the dowdy, dated model it is, and certainly not one for which you'd spend $1,000.

The TGF657BFB has gas burners of the standard open type. Food and spills can collect in them, making the range difficult to keep clean. The construction is shoddy and the components are of the cheapest and lightest-weight materials available. This can be easily demonstrated by giving a TGF657BFB display model a good shake.

In spite of all these negatives, you can do a lot of cooking with this spacious model and its outdated technology. The TGF657BFB may not last a long time or perform particularly well, but in its black-and-chrome finish, it sure has a trendy look and an attractive price tag.

In spite of all the strikes against it, we have a soft spot for this range. As the biggest and least expensive chrome-finished gas range out there, Tappan's TGF657BFB is an interesting and affordable choice.


Pros: Least-expensive 36-inch gas range in black/chrome, nostalgic feel
Cons: Technologically outdated, lightweight construction, not particularly durable, open burners

Warranty
1 year