Real life update

Kinja'd!!! "Reigntastic" (reigntastic)
12/03/2013 at 09:47 • Filed to: None

Kinja'd!!!6 Kinja'd!!! 26

So, I recently got a callback regarding an IT position I applied for, and I'll be getting an offer in writing soon. Not only does this mean I'll get an actual desk job, but I'll be escaping retail hell and more than doubling my income.

More build threads for Mr. Deux to come!

Kinja'd!!!

I also got some seat time with Dad's Cayman S over Thanksgiving. The car is a 2010 with the six speed, and I have an interesting perspective in comparing it to a mid-engined car that's 17 years older.

I will say I was surprised by the amount of road noise in the car, but the engine note was glorious, especially above 5k. Steering feel was good, but the wheel lacks the distinct response that my MR2 has. It's still hydraulic (prior to the electric revision), but it just doesn't transmit road feel like I'm used to. That being said, it's more proper for a luxury/sports car that costs around $50k. The clutch was simple to use, and honestly only needed about an inch of throw to disengage, compared to the M3 that he had previously, this was simple to drive.

Audio system was good, but I turned it off every time I started the car; not what I was interested in. Seats were firm, but comfortable. Interior was well appointed, very nice and fairly rare in not being black.


DISCUSSION (26)


Kinja'd!!! JR1 > Reigntastic
12/03/2013 at 09:49

Kinja'd!!!0

The real question is would you take this over you MR2 which I assume you are emotionally attached to


Kinja'd!!! Clown Shoe Pilot > Reigntastic
12/03/2013 at 09:50

Kinja'd!!!0

thumbs up on getting out of retail hell. good on you.


Kinja'd!!! GhostZ > Reigntastic
12/03/2013 at 09:52

Kinja'd!!!1

Time to plan how you're going to spend that new income. I suggest doubling the HP of your current car.


Kinja'd!!! Reigntastic > JR1
12/03/2013 at 09:52

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Honestly, after the Cayman has been into the shop already for an issue with the cams, if it hadn't been under warranty, I wouldn't be able to afford the $1500 repair; maintenance costs too much. I like that I can work on my MR2, and although it's not a Porsche, it's really starting to get some attention now that it's nearing classic status.

So no, I like my MR2. You know what they say about Porsches and porcupines.


Kinja'd!!! Reigntastic > Clown Shoe Pilot
12/03/2013 at 09:53

Kinja'd!!!0

Thanks, buddy. It's been a fun three years, but I did manage to snag a huge promotion before this.


Kinja'd!!! Reigntastic > GhostZ
12/03/2013 at 09:55

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I'm looking for about 350whp. I'll be fully rebuilding the engine, with assorted goodies. Otherwise, I want coilovers all around, new shocks, new control arms for the front, a new intercooler, wheels, and a brake package. Otherwise, I'll see what breaks first.

I'm probably going to look into getting a DD for the days when MR2 isn't capable, and for the commute.


Kinja'd!!! JR1 > Reigntastic
12/03/2013 at 09:58

Kinja'd!!!0

And for the record just because my emblem thingy is a Porsche badge I'm not a fanboy. I do like that the MR2 is such a pure driving experience for a relatively inexpensive package!


Kinja'd!!! liquid_popcorn > Reigntastic
12/03/2013 at 10:03

Kinja'd!!!0

Congratulations! My wife made her escape from retail hell (manager at an expensive women's clothing store) this past March; I imagine you'll feel the same way. Best of luck at your new job!


Kinja'd!!! Reigntastic > JR1
12/03/2013 at 10:04

Kinja'd!!!1

Oh, no worries. I've always been the type to try a little of everything, every car has its merits. If that was a 2010 911 GT3 RS I'd driven, I'd probably have a different response.

It's a nice little machine. Definitely starting to show its age in some regards, but with decent upkeep it'll be a reliable car for years to come.


Kinja'd!!! Reigntastic > liquid_popcorn
12/03/2013 at 10:05

Kinja'd!!!0

Thanks a bunch!


Kinja'd!!! GhostZ > Reigntastic
12/03/2013 at 10:14

Kinja'd!!!0

What are the specs on the MR2?

I assume you have a 3S-GTE engine, in which case 350whp is definitely a reasonable estimate.

My suggestion is to find a 3S-GE-equipped daily driver so you have redundant parts. But I don't know Toyota motors well enough to recommend one, unless you want to DD a Celica.


Kinja'd!!! Reigntastic > GhostZ
12/03/2013 at 10:17

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Correct, I have a 3s-GTE. With a boost controller, intake, and exhaust, I make about 225, sub 200 to the wheels currently. Stock they made just above 200.

Truth be told, with some serious building, they can make over 600. ATSRacing has some real powerhouses, but I'm not looking for that much. I just want to wipe the grin off any mustang in the near area; I'm a simple man.

I'm not really quite sure what I'd like to DD yet. Probably something inexpensive and efficient. I'd like to have something with the same powerplant, but honestly I'd really like something newer.


Kinja'd!!! Meatcoma > Reigntastic
12/03/2013 at 10:25

Kinja'd!!!0

I just recently applied for a Sr IT position and hopefully I get a call back because my income will double as well going from Lead developer to Sr. developer, Congrats to you!


Kinja'd!!! Reigntastic > Meatcoma
12/03/2013 at 10:31

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Good luck! Mine is just entry level, but since I'm still in school I'm happy to take it.


Kinja'd!!! Meatcoma > Reigntastic
12/03/2013 at 10:39

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Getting your foot in the door is the hardest part. Sounds like you've done that, should be easy breezy now.


Kinja'd!!! Reigntastic > Meatcoma
12/03/2013 at 10:45

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Isn't that the truth. All about who you know, and this is no different. Managed to befriend the IT Director.


Kinja'd!!! ddavidn > Reigntastic
12/03/2013 at 11:06

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Welcome to IT. Have you tried turning it off and on again?

Kinja'd!!!


Kinja'd!!! Reigntastic > ddavidn
12/03/2013 at 11:32

Kinja'd!!!1

No, but I have identified the glitch in the system utilizing the keyboard.


Kinja'd!!! ddavidn > Reigntastic
12/03/2013 at 11:36

Kinja'd!!!0

Well, that's almost always the issue. What's your specialty?


Kinja'd!!! Reigntastic > ddavidn
12/03/2013 at 11:37

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I specialize in hardware. Troubleshooting, diagnosing, repairing, and building. I'll learn more on the job, I'd imagine.


Kinja'd!!! ddavidn > Reigntastic
12/03/2013 at 11:40

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A+ certified, or did they let you in without it?

You'll learn quite a bit on the job.


Kinja'd!!! Reigntastic > ddavidn
12/03/2013 at 11:54

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They let me in without it. I've got a good portfolio of personal clients, so I was able to make a good impression. I figured I'd go ahead and work on that soon anyways.


Kinja'd!!! ddavidn > Reigntastic
12/03/2013 at 11:57

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Ah, then you don't need it. I have Network+ (before it had an expiration date, yes!) and it was cool. And A+ is a huge pain. Network+ seems to be better, unless you want to be stuck on a hardware bench forever. Microsoft certification is a little cheaper, IIRC, and has more recognition with recruiters and customers. Just food for thought.


Kinja'd!!! Reigntastic > ddavidn
12/03/2013 at 12:15

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Definitely food for thought. Network+ is something I'd like to get, and I can always troll a bit with a MSTP cert for now, but it'll be useful to get the paid training.

I appreciate the advice, you should keep it coming!


Kinja'd!!! ddavidn > Reigntastic
12/03/2013 at 12:24

Kinja'd!!!1

I'd say pick up certs slowly while working. The folks who go grab a ton of certs in a year forget most of the knowledge (yes, there is learning to be had!) in the next year when they are working on something totally unrelated. Network+ is nice because it's easy, doesn't go out of date very fast. MS stuff is nice because it's actually kinda useful, but will make you work a bit harder. I'm still waiting for an opportunity to get MS certs, even though I'm not looking for another job for a while. I took all the classes for those certs in college, but started a job instead of getting certified. It really just depends what industry and company size you want to work in. If you're young, you have plenty of time to move around to different positions and find your niche. I'm still working on that, and probably will keep jumping around forever. Just let me know if you ever want advice from someone who is still figuring things out...


Kinja'd!!! Reigntastic > ddavidn
12/03/2013 at 17:48

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I'm pretty sure everyone still has stuff to figure out. With this industry especially, as soon as you think you know everything, you're behind.

thereign@outlook.com, send me an email. I'd love to network with you!