by "MM54" (mm54mk2)
Published 03/04/2017 at 15:17
by "MM54" (mm54mk2)
Published 03/04/2017 at 15:17
Tags: SpringCar
STARS: 1
For quite a while I’ve been planning on picking up another car this spring to be a 3-season daily that I can occasionally autocross and generally have fun with.
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For almost as long as I’ve planned to get a car in the spring, I’ve had a particular car in mind (dubbed “SpringCar” and kept to be a surprise when I got it), but despite my savings efforts, I don’t think I’m going to be able to get a well-sorted example. That paired with occasional lapses in the I need it factor, I’m considering some other, cheaper options.
Requirements are as such:
This car should be a well-sorted example, I will gladly do some work on it, but I already have a major project. This means some semblance of reliability too, since I’ll potentially depend on it while catching up on some maintenance on my beater crown vic this summer.
It also needs to be RWD because
reasons
. Manual transmission too. That’s about it, really. Something manual, RWD, and fun that I can drive spring through fall and store in the winter.
Oh, and it needs to have 4 wheels and a roof. No bikes (I’d have killed myself in a month), and I have way too much hair to drive something without a roof.
To set the tone, here are a couple front-runners. Sell me on one of these, or come up with something even better in a similar price bracket and drop it in the comments.
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I love these RX-7s. Heck, I almost bought one out of a junkyard a year ago just because they’re so lovely, never mind that this one had forcefully met a pole and some guard rail (hey it had like 40k miles on it). The rotary engine is weird (so am I) and makes weed-whacker sounds that would perplex the neighbors, who are used to the deep gargle of my Chevelle.
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While I have much less time spent lusting over examples in junkyards, I am equally in love with the first generation MR2. I did almost buy one, but I ended up buying my house so it didn’t happen. So 80's, simple, and delightful. Has the potential to be a lot of fun, especially if I can make it to some track days this year.
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If this were still 2010, I’d include an e30 on this list but these days they’re priced through the roof. An old roadster would be cool as well, but not quite what I’m looking for at this point. Some day I need to have an old Alfa, but price becomes a factor again. There are so many cars that I see and want that it’s hard to bring them all to mind, but I’ve got time - just need to pick one now.
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So tell me, Oppo - what would you suggest? If one of the two above, which one and why? If something else, what and why? You know the drill.
This probably won’t be the last post like this as I narrow things down and spring inches closer and closer. In the end, I’ll probably be asking you all to help find one.
"E90M3" (e90m3)
03/04/2017 at 15:26, STARS: 1
E36 325is, I’ve always wanted one of these more than an E30 for some reason.
"MM54" (mm54mk2)
03/04/2017 at 15:29, STARS: 1
This is a good option, I’ve driven my friend’s (which is now being converted to rotary valves) and it was enjoyable. Definitely something to consider!
"Nick Has an Exocet" (nickallain)
03/04/2017 at 15:38, STARS: 0
The rarest of all corvettes:
"SpeedSix" (speedsix)
03/04/2017 at 15:45, STARS: 1
If you’re considering the MR2, you could also consider a later-model 5-speed V6 Fiero .
"My bird IS the word" (mybirdistheword)
03/04/2017 at 15:46, STARS: 0
If we are looking in a similar budget range, this sucker:
nissan 300zx z31. Get the turbo if you can swing it. Unlike many, I like the 80s. It might not have the aftermarket of many, but as to why these are neglected I have no idea. The turbos can be built to make some substantial power with better boost control and intercooling. 80s nissan reliability. Also commonly available with a manual.
I also like 80s trans ams too but I think these are probably a better option for not alot of effort.
"For Sweden" (rallybeetle)
03/04/2017 at 15:49, STARS: 1
The answer is always F-Body
"MM54" (mm54mk2)
03/04/2017 at 15:53, STARS: 0
I always forget these exist (I’d do
things
for an old 240Z) - no idea what they sell for, but I have a hunch it’s close to my original plan’s cost. I may have to look more into it - thanks!
"CaptDale - is secretly British" (captdale)
03/04/2017 at 15:57, STARS: 0
What! No love for the Fiero GT?!
"My bird IS the word" (mybirdistheword)
03/04/2017 at 16:00, STARS: 1
In nice, unmolested shape you are probably looking at 6-8k depending on where you live. my buddy picked up a non turbo running car for 800$ and it was fantastic until he crashed it lol.
"MM54" (mm54mk2)
03/04/2017 at 16:03, STARS: 2
I’ve just never been a big fan of the Fiero - too much melted-plastic styling in the front end for my tastes and overall just ‘meh’ to me. Then again, I also think MkIV supras are fugly and prefer FBs and FCs to an FD RX-7 so my tastes may be a bit odd.
"CaptDale - is secretly British" (captdale)
03/04/2017 at 16:15, STARS: 1
Fair enough. I loved my ‘87 GT. Great car. I’d suggest trying one out. Maybe you’ll like it.
"Twingo Tamer - About to descend into project car hell." (oppisitelock)
03/05/2017 at 12:02, STARS: 2
Clean nicely specced e36 or e46 coupe? E46 330ci are supposed to be very good but not sure how they’re priced over there, in the UK they’re pretty good value.
"Tazio, Count Fouroff" (tazio0625)
03/05/2017 at 12:07, STARS: 1
Maybe because they’re better cars in just about every way? (Testimonial fwiw: have owned both)
Unless of course a person is a timing-belt enthusiast that wants nonexistent rear-seat legroom to discourage potentially unwanted passengers
Actually this is a great suggestion imo. Good ones are still cheap and they’re modern enough to DD if you don’t need factory infotainment
"Tazio, Count Fouroff" (tazio0625)
03/05/2017 at 12:09, STARS: 1
E36 more reliable, more tossable, and cheaper and easier to maintain. Just saying
"My X-type is too a real Jaguar" (TomSlick)
03/05/2017 at 12:11, STARS: 0
Considered a 3rd gen celica
http://chattanooga.craigslist.org/cto/6003163910.html
"Out, but with a W - has found the answer" (belg)
03/05/2017 at 12:11, STARS: 0
Miata with a hardtop?
"Tazio, Count Fouroff" (tazio0625)
03/05/2017 at 12:11, STARS: 0
InB4 Hardtop Miata
"Tazio, Count Fouroff" (tazio0625)
03/05/2017 at 12:14, STARS: 0
Rotary valves? (At the risk of exposing my possibly shameful ignorance,) Please explain!
"E90M3" (e90m3)
03/05/2017 at 12:15, STARS: 0
Timing belt issues? I thought the M50 had a chain.
"Dr. Zoidberg - RIP Oppo" (thetomselleck)
03/05/2017 at 12:17, STARS: 2
I’m sorry to suggest the NA Miata but... NA Miata.
"Twingo Tamer - About to descend into project car hell." (oppisitelock)
03/05/2017 at 12:17, STARS: 0
This is true but the e46 is also much better looking with a nicer interior. I own an e36 btw. It depends what your priorities are.
"Tazio, Count Fouroff" (tazio0625)
03/05/2017 at 12:20, STARS: 0
Correct. The E30's have timing belt...those were meant to be reasons why E36's are nicer to own and drive (if someone likes timing belts and tiny interiors E30 would be the obvious choice tho haha)
Apologies if confusing.
"E90M3" (e90m3)
03/05/2017 at 12:27, STARS: 1
Ah, I see what you meant now. I was going to say, I remember pulling an M50 apart in the junkyard for its cam shaft and distinctly remember a timing chain.
"Nibby" (nibby68)
03/05/2017 at 12:27, STARS: 0
how about an automatic corolla
"Tazio, Count Fouroff" (tazio0625)
03/05/2017 at 13:09, STARS: 0
meh the E46 interior kinda starts looking Honda or Lexus imo, compared to earlier Bimmer “cockpit” look. Purely subjective on my part, though
"Tazio, Count Fouroff" (tazio0625)
03/05/2017 at 13:10, STARS: 0
Lol jinx!!
"Captain of the Enterprise" (justanotherdayinparadise)
03/05/2017 at 14:41, STARS: 1
E36?
"CRider" (crider)
03/05/2017 at 14:55, STARS: 1
Overcome your fear and come to the 2 wheel side. It’s better here. Get a Grom- you can’t kill yourself on one, they’re cheap, and unlike a project car nothing will need to be fixed.
"gawdzillla" (gawdzillla)
03/05/2017 at 14:57, STARS: 1
FB
"OpposResidentLexusGuy - USE20, XF20, XU30 and Press Cars" (jakeauern)
03/05/2017 at 15:05, STARS: 1
You can probably still find an E30 in a lower price range if you’re not looking for holy grail Carson course. Also a car you might add - W20 MR2.
"boredalways" (boredalway666)
03/05/2017 at 15:53, STARS: 0
SLK w/ manual
Coupe, hardtop convertible, roadster, RWD, and a manual (which was available on the SLK320 as well until MY2001)
https://www.cars.com/vehicledetail/detail/694990339/overview/
Or this surprisingly clean for the price Chrysler Crossfire
https://www.cars.com/vehicledetail/detail/693981836/overview/
"MM54" (mm54mk2)
03/05/2017 at 19:01, STARS: 0
Around here e30's are $10k or rusty automatic 318s, sadly. I expect to travel to pick up the Spring Car but I’m not familiar with the market in the surrounding areas for them.
The second gen MR2 is also a consideration, but there’s something about the AW11 that just draws me to it.
Thanks for the input!
"MM54" (mm54mk2)
03/05/2017 at 19:03, STARS: 0
I’ve thought about it; they’re cool and would make a lot of sense for my 6-mile daily 35mph commute (so would an Isetta to be fair), but it’s just not quite what I’m looking for (plus it rains here more than the sun shines it seems). Maybe some day, though.
"MM54" (mm54mk2)
03/05/2017 at 19:03, STARS: 0
THERE IS A TOYOTA ON THE LIST WHY ARE YOU SUGGESTING A MIATA
"OpposResidentLexusGuy - USE20, XF20, XU30 and Press Cars" (jakeauern)
03/05/2017 at 19:04, STARS: 1
You can put the 3.5L V6 out of pretty much every Toyota/Lexus made right now in the W20. 300ish horsepower NA tiny car? YES.
"MM54" (mm54mk2)
03/05/2017 at 19:04, STARS: 0
"MM54" (mm54mk2)
03/05/2017 at 19:06, STARS: 0
It was picked up on Jalopnik a little while ago, let me find you the link. This is a friend of mine. It runs much better now than in the included videos.
http://jalopnik.com/this-mad-genius-built-the-strangest-running-bmw-you-hav-1790340214
"MM54" (mm54mk2)
03/05/2017 at 19:08, STARS: 0
Not really a fan of the e46, but a nice e36 is a definite consideration. Certainly the newest car on my mental-list!
"MM54" (mm54mk2)
03/05/2017 at 19:09, STARS: 0
Ooooooooh
"OpposResidentLexusGuy - USE20, XF20, XU30 and Press Cars" (jakeauern)
03/05/2017 at 19:10, STARS: 0
Decent cars can be found for a pretty good price and you can steal the V6 out of pretty much anything. Plus parts are super easy to find if you have problems which you really won’t.
"MM54" (mm54mk2)
03/05/2017 at 19:19, STARS: 0
That would be super tempting if I were looking for a project; right now I’m looking more at a doesn’t-need-a-lot car that I can tinker with but not get too involved in (yet at least) - I’ve still got a chevelle with a long list of needs to attend to.
"OpposResidentLexusGuy - USE20, XF20, XU30 and Press Cars" (jakeauern)
03/05/2017 at 19:24, STARS: 1
I don’t think the conversion would take too long but they say 325hp with removing the restrictions and maybe some bolt ons . That car would be a blast.
"MM54" (mm54mk2)
03/05/2017 at 19:30, STARS: 0
I wonder how that would compare though with a lightly touched black-top 4age (or something) in an AW11 though, in both resulting power:weight and time/cost/effort.
"OpposResidentLexusGuy - USE20, XF20, XU30 and Press Cars" (jakeauern)
03/05/2017 at 19:41, STARS: 1
Well the 2GRFE would give you a Lotus that looks like an MR2. I think the W20 would be a better place to live as well. Also, parts are becoming very hard to find on AW11 so a W20 with the 2GR would actually make it easier to fix.
"CRider" (crider)
03/06/2017 at 00:22, STARS: 0
It’s perfect for you. 6 miles, 35 mph? You’ll cut your commute in half and get 100+ MPG while doing it. You’ll be burning less than a gallon of gas a week on your commute. It’s the perfect city bike, it handles well, it’ll go right through traffic and you can have fun on it on a twisty road where you’ll be able to wring it out to 100% of it’s capacity without risking life or jail. For $3,000 brand new, you’ve got nothing to lose and if you decide it’s not for you, you’ll be able to sell it for what you paid. They are also the go-to bike for autocross and it sounds like you don’t want a full time DD anyway, so why not try it?
"Boxer_4" (Boxer_4)
03/06/2017 at 15:40, STARS: 1
That really was a popular color combo for GM in the ‘80s, wasn’t it? A friend of mine has an ‘88 Camaro in basically the same color combo...
"CaptDale - is secretly British" (captdale)
03/06/2017 at 16:14, STARS: 1
Yup. Same colors my Fiero was. I think people just liked Red and Silver in the 80's more
"Boxer_4" (Boxer_4)
03/06/2017 at 16:16, STARS: 0
Personally, I vote SA22C/FB. Someone had an ‘80 Leathersport as a project at my high school, and it was awesome (even if it never did get running... I blame the student and not the car...) Personally, I like the rear of the SA22C better (‘78-’80), but the rear of the FB isn’t bad, either. They can sound awesome, too...
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"Boxer_4" (Boxer_4)
03/06/2017 at 16:16, STARS: 1
A modern all aluminum Toyota V6 (such as the 2GR-FE) is going put out more power right out of the gate than a 4A-GE (in either 16V or 20V forms), and it would take quite a bit to even come close to getting the same level of power in a 4A-GE. You’re talking 268 HP with the 2GR-FE compared to anywhere from 112 hp on a “Bluetop” 4A-GE to 165hp on a “Blacktop” 4A-GE. However, the 2GR is also quite a bit heavier than the 4A-GE, which is kind of surprising given that the 4A-GE uses a cast iron block.
The “Blacktop” and “Silvertop” 4A-GE both have 20V heads; the “Silvertop” is generally cheaper and has stronger internals, while the “Blacktop” is generally more expensive but has a better flowing head, higher lift intake cam, higher compression, 5 more horsepower, and can rev ~500 rpm higher. The “Blacktop” can also be run with the factory ITBs “open” (no airbox) as it is MAP, but the “Silvertop” can be converted from MAF to MAP fairly easily.
In my opinion, the 4A-GE 20V engines sound better...
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It’s a different story when looking at the 5S-FE that came in the non-turbo SW21; that engine, while very reliable and torquey for its displacement, is a boat anchor compared to the 2GR (133hp vs 268hp, and not much of aftermarket engine support). The 3S-GTE is a different story entirely...
"MM54" (mm54mk2)
03/06/2017 at 19:25, STARS: 0
These tend to be pretty reasonably priced too from what I’ve seen. I’ve gotten a lot of good feedback in this post but I don’t know that I’m any closer to a decision! It might end up like every other time I’ve bought a car, where I just looked at what was out there and picked one.
Is the GSL the only one to have gotten a limited slip diff? My primary concerns with the FB (or sa22c) is that A) I don’t know how ‘tossable’ they are compared to some other options, with the solid axle and such and B) I don’t know that I need another carbureted ‘daily’ in the immediate future. Concerns with the AW11 (the other front-runner) is parts availability and the fact that they all are rusty. Every last one of them.
"Boxer_4" (Boxer_4)
03/07/2017 at 15:08, STARS: 0
I know what you mean; if you don’t have your mind set on a particular car, there are a lot of great options out there!
I believe the GSL and GSL-SE were the only ones that came with an LSD, as far as I know. The GSL-SE came with the fuel injected 13B, too, but I would guess those would be in the upper range of the market for these. I believe these were regarded as one of the best handling cars at the time they were sold, largely in part to how light they were. Motortrend has a pretty good
buyer’s guide
.
The AW11 definitely has a rust issue; a lot of ‘80s Japanese cars do. Drivetrain parts availability for the AW11 shouldn’t be too much of an issue ( the 4A-GE has a huge following, and the C50 and later C52 transmissions were found in everything from Corollas to supposedly the first gen xB ); body hardware may be more of an issue. The FB will likely have much of the same body hardware parts availability issues as the AW11; parts for the 12A and 13B engines should be easy to find though.
"MM54" (mm54mk2)
03/07/2017 at 18:58, STARS: 1
Yeah the parts issue definitely is more of a chassis-parts not engine-parts, both have pretty common engines (relatively speaking). I’m still quite torn, I’ll have almost decided one way, then think about the other and start going that way again. We’ll see, I’ve got time. Thinking maybe Easter-time to begin the search in earnest.