Been awhile since I logged onto here, spent some time to focus on my bicycle racing, moved to a new town for a new job, etc. It's been a busy spring. Finally have the time for some quality motorcycling, which of course reminded me to get back on here again.
With the new job comes new cash flow, and my busted-ass college car needs to be replaced with something cool, and I'm looking for opinions. I have a list of options, but I'd like to hear some other suggestions in case there's something I haven't though of (likely).
My priorities are:
Budget of around 18k. Reliability and relatively inexpensive maintenance costs are important too.
It must be fun to drive, handling is a BIG priority. Prefer RWD, cool with AWD, dislike FWD. My new city owns plenty of snow plows.
Not too old, no more than six model years I suppose.
A little versatile, I have to drive a lot for bike racing, so a little storage would be nice. I'll mount the bikes on a rack, so no worries there.
Decent commuter, and by that I mean easy-ish to drive in stop-and-go traffic. Torquey motor, nothing too peaky like an RX8; I don't need a V8, though I wouldn't say no to one at all.
I really don't care too much about ride quality. I'd rather have something that'll go where I want it to when pushed hard, maybe occasional autocross too.
Alright, any ideas? Thanks!
-Nick
Subaru WRX.
Very high on my list, found a used 06 in black here in town. Anything to be wary of?
Quote from: jagstang on April 26, 2009, 08:42:53 PM
Very high on my list, found a used 06 in black here in town. Anything to be wary of?
I haven't owend one, but I would look at mileage, previous owner (thrashing it etc.). They are bullet proof.
Quote from: jagstang on April 26, 2009, 08:42:53 PM
Very high on my list, found a used 06 in black here in town. Anything to be wary of?
Main thing is to look at any mods the previous owner made - that's where most drivetrain problems come from. Other than that, those things seem to run a long time.
Subaru WRX 530whp Drift (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r1szPu5rV5Y#lq-lq2-hq-vhq)
You should really go through the thread I created a while back
http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=20904.0 (http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=20904.0)
Oh and here is the original original thread when i was looking a high performance car. Don't let the title of the thread scare you away. We had tons of suggestions in it.
http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=3717.0 (http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=3717.0)
I am leaning towards a 2004 -05 WRX STI , Also maybe a Evo 8 or 9 [thumbsup]
(http://www.in.gr/auto/parousiaseis/foto_big/Subaru_Impreza_WRX_STi_05.jpg)
I would so love to get my hands on that version of an STI!
Quote from: Randimus Maximus on April 26, 2009, 10:45:51 PM
I would so love to get my hands on that version of an STI!
Hopefully that will be my next car.
I just found the Brochure online
http://www.subaru.net/pdfs/2005impreza.pdf (http://www.subaru.net/pdfs/2005impreza.pdf)
The new Hyundai Genesis Coupe.
RWD
Comes with either 2.0L turbo I-4 or a 3.6L V-6
6 spd manual
Brembos (on track models)
Many trim levels, to get exactly what you want
Spec sheet here (http://www.hyundaigenesis.com/coupe/assets/Genesis%20Coupe%20Specs.pdf)
Looked at those new Hyundais, but just a bit too far out of my price range, unfortunately. I'm also looking at a 350Z, maybe an Audi A4, a Mustang, or a BMW 3, all used of course. For front drivers, I also though about GTIs and a Mazda 3.
Quote from: jagstang on April 27, 2009, 05:09:43 AM
Looked at those new Hyundais, but just a bit too far out of my price range, unfortunately. I'm also looking at a 350Z, maybe an Audi A4, a Mustang, or a BMW 3, all used of course. For front drivers, I also though about GTIs and a Mazda 3.
don't let the FWD scare you away from the GTI....or the Mazda(speed) 3....but mostly the GTI. It's a great handling car!
I'm also a big fan of the A4 quattro
330i, 330i ZHP, 2001-2002 M3
When your done with it, you'll still get 50-75% of your money back out of it. Unlike the jap econoboxes with drivetrain enhancements. [thumbsup]
just my .02
I'd look for a used Lexus..........
I really like the Infinit G35x.
Has everything you want and you can get a 06 or 07 in your price range.
I am leaning towards a 2004 -05 WRX STI , Also maybe a Evo 8 or 9 [thumbsup]
(http://www.in.gr/auto/parousiaseis/foto_big/Subaru_Impreza_WRX_STi_05.jpg)[/quote]
I love the WRX, but I was looking for something cheap and found it. I know some will revel in horror, but I just bought my daughter an 04 SRT4 Dodge Neon and it is the most fun I have had in a long time. This thing is a hoot and when the power hits, a handful. The car equivalent of hamfistedness is not tolerated well, but well driven, it will put a very big grin on your face. NO turbo lag, very lightly modded and 250 HP and a little over 250 lb.ft. at 2200-4400rpm (2850 lbs. too). It is a freaking blast. Came with a $1500 DVD and a radar detector in it too.
I'm buying myself one first chance I get. The car really reminds me of my motorcycle - very docile or a beast, your choice.
50,000 mi. for $9,000 - a deal in my book. It has a new engine cause the kid blew it and Dodge replaced it and Granddad picked the car up from the dealer and sold the car. Hope I can get parts if good ole Chrysler goes the way of the Dodo.
(http://i463.photobucket.com/albums/qq353/1ajess/6741-2004-Dodge-NeonSRT-4.jpg)
LA
Quote from: TAftonomos on April 27, 2009, 08:15:17 AM
330i, 330i ZHP, 2001-2002 M3
Tricky to find in a manual, although they are out there... How are they reliability-wise?
Quote from: cyrus buelton on April 27, 2009, 08:20:52 AM
I'd look for a used Lexus..........
So you're recommending an IS? Never tried one- same situation as the 330?
Quote from: metallimonster on April 27, 2009, 08:47:30 AM
I really like the Infinit G35x.
Has everything you want and you can get a 06 or 07 in your price range.
I'd probably prefer the Z over the G35, but not by much.
Quote from: Le Pirate on April 27, 2009, 07:46:14 AM
don't let the FWD scare you away from the GTI....or the Mazda(speed) 3....but mostly the GTI. It's a great handling car!
I'm also a big fan of the A4 quattro
I've had great experiences with friends' A4s in the past. What are some good years of those and GTIs to look for? I like that many GTIs came with the DSG transmission!
Thanks for the help guys, keep it comin!
Quote from: jagstang on April 27, 2009, 10:53:15 AM
So you're recommending an IS? Never tried one- same situation as the 330?
I was leaving that up to you to decide, I was just recommending a manufacturer.
I picked up a 2003 RX330 with 72k miles for under 15k
I think if you want a DSG in the GTI, you need to look for an 06 or newer. They should be well within your price range too.
I had a 02 audi, and I've drove a 07 for about a week and a half...both were great
Space might be an issue but a Honda S2000 a used one falls into your price range, reliable and will is a joy to drive on twisty roads.
18k?
used v8 stang.
Get a sweet old IROC-Z and put some dollars into the motor, and save the rest for rear tires. And maybe a bandanna to cover your noodle.
Ok, so here is the list so far:
Audi A4 Quattro (or a nice S4 if I can find one)
BMW 330
Ford Mustang GT (05+)
Mazda 3 (cheap enough to buy new)
Nissan 350Z (also an Infinity G35)
Subaru WRX
VW GTI
No convertibles, should have mentioned that earlier. Any additions? Or, if you had a bad experience with one, subtractions?
Oh, and no IROC. Although, along those lines, simplicity of maintenance is a plus.
Test drove a Mazda 3 after work today. Nice and quick for a front driver, although I hate when you hit a bump midcorner and the front steps out what feels like a foot to the outside.
Brb, just accidentally inhaled powdered sugar off jelly doughnut, need to expel.
You have some good choices there. You have 3 or 4 models I was considering on that list [thumbsup]
Might get my head chewed off for this one, but has anyone tried a Holden (Pontiac) GTO (Monaro) from a couple years back? They seem like they could be fun.
Quote from: jagstang on April 27, 2009, 08:37:32 PM
Might get my head chewed off for this one, but has anyone tried a Holden (Pontiac) GTO (Monaro) from a couple years back? They seem like they could be fun.
GTO could be fun. Along similar lines, I was going to recommend a Cadillac CTS-V with the big V8 + 6 speed manual trans. I don't think you'll find a nice CTS-V for less than $25K, though.
Of the cars on your list, I'd vote for the BMW 330 or a late-model 3-series variant (maybe even an M3 if you've got the cash?). I have seen Mazdaspeed3's and 350Z's haul some serious ass at a track day, so those would be my second- and third-choice recommendations from the cars on your list.
I'm not a fan of the ridiculously big stepladder/wing on the WRX, but I'm sure they're a blast to drive. If I'm going to be driving in a <cough> spirited manner, I like cars that don't draw a lot of attention from the [leo]. Your call on that one. ;)
Good luck. Let us know what you decide. [thumbsup]
You CANNOT go wrong with the new WRX. Although when new, it may be a little out of your price range (25kish). The used models are excellent as well but only have the 225(?)hp motor. Still a blast to drive [evil]. Also, the used infinity G35 coupes are gorgeous cars and I have never heard a negative comment about one from an owner. The mazdaspeed3 and mazdaspeed6(no longer made) can be had at a reasonable price and are a hoot to drive. My buddy at school just recently purchased a used speed6 and loves it. Didn't have a single problem in the record Erie, PA winter. The speed3 is just FWD however. Good luck with whatever you choose!
Glenn
Out of that list, the 350Z is my personal favorite. Reliable too ~
JM
Quote from: jagstang on April 27, 2009, 08:37:32 PM
Might get my head chewed off for this one, but has anyone tried a Holden (Pontiac) GTO (Monaro) from a couple years back? They seem like they could be fun.
I bet he could get a nice, new, off the lot G8 (the new GTO) for around 18k, though I haven't looked. They are a nice car.
I'd take the mustang off, just because you can close your eyes and throw a rock and hit one somewhere. There are so many of them on the road....granted, they're all v6 ones....but it's like a song on high rotation on the radio...you get tired of seeing them after a while
I agree, take the Mustang off the list. Yeah, the GT's might be kinda quick, but there are sooo many on the roads that I don't even notice them anymore.
I vote G35 or 350Z. My wife has a G35 and it's a zippy car. Turns well, too.
Agreed, I had the mustang on there b/c i figured there needed to be something american on there. Unfortunately, I think a used G8 with the v8 may be a bit out of my price range. Although it is something to keep in mind for the future!
I did some insurance rate shopping and found out that a WRX is actually cheaper than a lot of other options- my rates would be the same as on a Mazda 3, wheras a MazdaSpeed 3 and 350z were both about 60 buck more a month. I even found what looks to be a pretty sweet '06 in black at a local dealer. Clean carfax, still under warranty, one owner, etc. Now I just need to test drive it. Please keep the suggestions coming!
Thanks,
-Nick
Quote from: jagstang on April 28, 2009, 02:40:50 PM
I even found what looks to be a pretty sweet '06 in black at a local dealer. Clean carfax, still under warranty, one owner, etc. Now I just need to test drive it. Please keep the suggestions coming!
Thanks,
-Nick
Once you take it for a spin, the dealer is going to have to pry your hands off the steering wheel. [evil]
My hubby and I both regret the day he sold his '04 STI. [bang]
'04 and older had the gold fleck black metalic, where as the '05 and newer have a blue fleck black metalic paint.
I'm not sure what your needs are, but when comparing the Z to the G35 Coupe, remember that the Z doesn't have a "backseat". The G has a place you could toss a couple small kids or a couple duffel bags...
or small kids in duffel bags.
alley oop
Quote from: Autostrada Pilot on April 28, 2009, 10:22:53 AM
I agree, take the Mustang off the list. Yeah, the GT's might be kinda quick, but there are sooo many on the roads that I don't even notice them anymore.
I disagree - '08 Bullitt. Might be a bit out of range as far as price, but they're
the late model V8 'stang to have in my book. Nondescript and full of goodies from the factory.
Of course, I'd sell you my mint, red, '96 GT with 47,000 on the clock for around $6K. Then again, I've been thinking I might have to twin-turbo it.... [evil]
Oh, don't get me started about the Bullitt- I almost had one. The dealer had it leftover and marked down to 21k up until about a month ago. I lusted after that car for so long but couldn't swing it. They sold it a couple of days before I got my new job that would've allowed me to buy it. It still stings.
Just thought I'd throw in an update; just drove home a 2005 Mustang GT. 5 speed, bright red, 17k on the clock. Big dumb fun.
congrats
Quote from: jagstang on May 24, 2009, 08:21:58 PM
Just thought I'd throw in an update; just drove home a 2005 Mustang GT. 5 speed, bright red, 17k on the clock. Big dumb fun.
Wow, a 4 year old car with 17k? It's probably been babied...
Quote from: NAKID on May 27, 2009, 05:47:30 PM
Wow, a 4 year old car with 17k? It's probably been babied...
Yea, that's how I can advertise my truck. 8 years old, only 41,000 miles... Hauls wood, dirt, mulch, swims well,
JM
Quote from: jagstang on May 24, 2009, 08:21:58 PM
Just thought I'd throw in an update; just drove home a 2005 Mustang GT. 5 speed, bright red, 17k on the clock. Big dumb fun.
Nice choice sir [thumbsup]
Get a spring kit.
Congrats
I just wanted to put it out there that my wife just got a 2005 Accord hybrid - that thing can haul some ass and get mid 30s mpgs.
I was shocked how much power was on tap.