Dealers: low rates, old cars will drive up WNY auto sales. (Western New York automobile dealers) (Special Report: Automotive) (Industry Overview)

An improving economy will lift auto sales in 1993 like the proverbial rising tide carries all boats.

So goes one Buffalo area auto dealer's view of the new model year.

But there are other explanations for the good feelings of some car dealers, a group which even members say clings so stubbornly to rose-colored glasses at times that it seems to perceive a silver lining before others spot a cloud.

Some of the reasons for dealer optimism:

* Lower interest rates on car loans.

* The widest selection of new models, automotive technology and safety devices in years.

* Expiration of a high number of new-car financing contracts from 1986 and …