Get These Performance Cars Before the Year's Out!

"Satish Kondapavulur" (becauseCAR) 09/28/2013 at 13:08 • Filed to: MY STUPID LISTS

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After weeks of spewing reckless non-car-buying advice, like focusing on !!!error: Indecipherable SUB-paragraph formatting!!! , a foray into !!!error: Indecipherable SUB-paragraph formatting!!! , and listing why !!!error: Indecipherable SUB-paragraph formatting!!! , I've run out of whimsical list ideas. Therefore, I've decided to venture back into actual consumer advice, which most of Jalopnik will promptly ignore, primarily to watch a video that involves a girl living out her NASCAR fantasies after a bit too much anesthesia.

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So I've decided to tell you, Jalopnik reader who will never forgive me for writing !!!error: Indecipherable SUB-paragraph formatting!!! , cars that may be worth considering before the year runs out. You may have to endure mark-up on one of them, but you'll receive excellent deals on the rest. They also might even be future collector cars. And the best part? Almost all the cars on this list have a manual!

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Author's Note: I wanted to include some manual V12 Aston Martins, but alas, I couldn't find any 2013 DBS's or V12 Vantages for sale. Also, I considered the Golf R, but having actually driven one, I couldn't say anything good about it other than it being a good car. I much prefer the GTI.

Jaguar XK-RS

Yes, I know the F-Type V8S exists, and it's !!!error: Indecipherable SUB-paragraph formatting!!! . But I have a thing for GTs that want to be performance cars, because usually the handling problem gets solved. (As a millennial, ride quality doesn't matter to me. Yet.) It also comes in French Blue, which is for me reason enough to get one. Yes, I know it doesn't have a manual, but you don't need it, because it's still a GT in the end. The XK-RS even seats four people, provided two of them don't have legs. You won't have to worry about maintaining it for four years thanks to Platinum Coverage. And plan on some fun while buying it. You'll encounter gratitude from a dealership like you never have before in the form of a tremendous discount and borderline excessive use of the word "sir."

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Audi TT-RS

We begged Audi to no end for a TT-RS in the United States. They obliged for 2013. However, there are now over 20 brand-new TT-RS cars sitting on Autotrader with little chance of being sold over sticker like the 1-Series M. As a result, Americans didn't get a new RS4 or RS6 Avant for 2014. Instead we got the RS7, a car for successful sales reps and marketing people, and the SQ5, a crossover for somewhat successful sales reps and marketing people. All I can take away from this is Audi doesn't think highly of Americans. But we're discounting the fact that the TT-RS is actually a very good car. And the turbocharged inline-five sounds awesome. It's also expensive, but I'm sure there are deals to be had, with that many lying around. And if they do sell out, Americans will have enough leverage to demand an RS6 to be sold here.

Chevrolet Corvette C6 ZR1

Yes, the C7 will have better seats. A better dashboard. A better transmission. And most importantly, better seats. But deals on C6 Corvettes are better than ever, especially on the ZR1, which is faster in a straight line. However, with a price of at least $100K, even with discounts, it is rather expensive. So your best bet is to start a business, buy a ZR1 on the account, and make it your dragstrip car. (Satisfy the IRS by putting a bunch of sponsor decals on your car and making YouTube videos of your ZR1 leaving Mustangs with big rear wheels in the dust.) The ZR1 the cheapest and most effortless way to get a 10-second car. A C6 Z06 is a good choice too, especially as a track car, but for the love of God, change out the standard seats for some Recaros.

Ford Mustang Boss 302

Here's how you should approach buying a Boss 302: Go online to find a dealership that's selling one new. Try your hardest to find one without insane markup, while enduring salespeople who justify it by comparing it to a Ford GT. You will find one for MSRP, but it'll be somewhere in the middle of nowhere. You'll find there are only two colors available: School Bus Yellow and Gotta-Have-It Green. Go with Gotta-Have-It Green because the yellow is even worse speeding ticket bait. Drive hundreds of miles to a Ford dealer. Ensure once again that you get the car for MSRP, because sales managers tend to change their mind quite a lot. Give the dealer a large cashier's check. Pick up the car, prepared for a very unforgiving ride on those rural roads and highway patrols who can spot you from a mile away.

BMW 135is/335is Coupes

Despite my Porsche avatar and all the criticism I give the current 5-Series, there is some BMW fanboy in me, though none of it involves liking the E36. Since the 335is is still on the E92 platform (I wasn't kidding about my BMW fanboy-ness), the steering feel will still be there, unlike the current F30. I prefer a 335is to the M3, for reasons that involve unpredictable servicing costs, smaller purchase price, and better gas mileage, with 80-90 percent of the performance, while retaining an inline-six, the engine that all manual BMWs should have. These will go down as among the best of the 3-Series cars.

Meanwhile, I recommend manual 135is coupes to others, mainly to ensure I can acquire it for a song after the free maintenance period is up. Sure, it's no 1-Series M, but it's not priced like one either, since discounts can be had. And handling is something to really look forward to after a long day. Look for a good deal on these cars before people who can't afford the lease payments on a 235i or 435i are steered towards the 135is or 335is.

Am I missing anything else that ought to be picked up before the end of the year?

!!!error: Indecipherable SUB-paragraph formatting!!! runs !!!error: Indecipherable SUB-paragraph formatting!!! , named because "Clunker.com" was $82 at auction and would've taken 30% out of the balance of his Eagle Vision for LeMons fund. In between contemplating cross-country runs, he spends much of his time attempting to convince others that his MkV Jetta 2.0T Wolfsburg is indeed a sports sedan.

Images per respective manufacturers.

exizeo - still loving fourza > Satish Kondapavulur 09/28/2013 at 13:58

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Are you missing anything else?

Well, I'd have to say the E92 M3...

80CobraKid > Satish Kondapavulur 09/28/2013 at 14:03

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Boss 302 can no longer be new, it was 2012/2013 only. It's almost guaranteed you'll be looking for one very slightly used.

Satish Kondapavulur > 80CobraKid 09/28/2013 at 14:30

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Believe it or not, there are still some new ones at showrooms, if you look at Autotrader and eBay Motors. Very few, but there are some.

Satish Kondapavulur > exizeo - still loving fourza 09/28/2013 at 14:32

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Really considered that car. But I'm one of those weird people who thinks an M3 should have an inline-six. And I don't want to deal with the maintenance cost once the free maintenance is up. I'd end up waiting for the 2014 M3.

80CobraKid > Satish Kondapavulur 09/28/2013 at 14:33

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Hmmm, spooky. I'd figured these had all sold by now, I guess some areas are too remote to sell it quickly. All I know is, I want one. BADLY.

Satish Kondapavulur > 80CobraKid 09/28/2013 at 14:34

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I was just as surprised as you. And I too want one. AMAZINGLY BADLY.

Scott Keelan > Satish Kondapavulur 09/28/2013 at 14:36

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Any chance of finding a first generation Cayman? I bet some early 2013's might still be on dealer lots. It's looks may be polarizing but there's no denying it's a great driver's car.

exizeo - still loving fourza > Satish Kondapavulur 09/28/2013 at 14:42

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If anything the F80 will be more maintenance heavy than the E9x.

The N/A E9x (as long as one does regular maintenance) should have no problems whatsoever.

The earlier E46s had TONS of problems.

Satish Kondapavulur > Scott Keelan 09/28/2013 at 14:55

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Those are very difficult. Didn't see any on Autotrader so I think most are gone.

Daywalker > exizeo - still loving fourza 09/28/2013 at 14:59

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E46s had tons of problems? Compared to what? Honest question, I've never heard that opinion before.

Also, what jalop would want a N/A E9x? Probably few.

Chaparral2F > 80CobraKid 09/28/2013 at 15:04

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Found quite a few Boss 302's for sale that are new. Seems like they are either Gotta Have It Green, or School Bus Yellow. I have been following this car to see how low the price will drop. Most seem to be around 45k. http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale/…

exizeo - still loving fourza > Daywalker 09/28/2013 at 15:09

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because NA is great.

And because E46 M3 had rod bearing problems. And a few more. Compared to E9x, of course...but it's always hit-or-miss.

Foo2rama > 80CobraKid 09/28/2013 at 15:09

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Agreed, there maybe like 5 new ones left in the US at this point, and I can assure you that they all have huge markups and are in horribad colors.

Goshen, formerly Darkcode > Satish Kondapavulur 09/28/2013 at 15:13

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Are there zero mileage C6Zs still on dealerships?

SonorousSpeedJoe > Goshen, formerly Darkcode 09/28/2013 at 15:22

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There are, but the 427 'Vert might be easier to find.

mytwodads2 > Satish Kondapavulur 09/28/2013 at 15:33

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You should have the Corvette Grand Sport on there instead of the ZR1/Z06. They can be found for about 50k even.

BMW_Bastard > Satish Kondapavulur 09/28/2013 at 15:33

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Trading my E90 335i BMW Performance Edition for a E90 M3 next week. While I agree the E90 335's are great cars, the M3 will be the classic.

thetedderbear > Satish Kondapavulur 09/28/2013 at 15:39

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Comparing my 335i coupe to my friends M3 coupe (both E92, mine is N54 powered just like the 335is), the maintenance on my 335i is much, much, much, extraordinairily, ten times over more expensive. His M3 is solid, the n/a V8 is incredible, and he pretty much changes the oil and other basic maintenance. I've been riddled with issues like shot turbos, a bad ECU, and much, much more. I drive it hard but not hard enough for all this. It's lightly modified and isn't running crazy boost or anything. It just always breaks. It's out of warrantee and as a result I've spent easily over $10k keeping it on the road. It's incredible to drive, it sounds great, and maybe the newer 335is models will be more reliable, but in my experience an M3 is much more durable and easier and cheaper to maintain.

Eyaare > Satish Kondapavulur 09/28/2013 at 15:46

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Speed3?

In a Mini; let them mock me as My Mini Countryman is higher than you > Satish Kondapavulur 09/28/2013 at 15:48

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MINI COOPER JCW GP, only 300 are left. Buy em now

Atomic Buffalo > Satish Kondapavulur 09/28/2013 at 15:56

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CTS-V.

Wagon.

With a manual transmission.

In Majestic Plum Metallic, the color of unicorns.

TheSergeMeister > Satish Kondapavulur 09/28/2013 at 16:12

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E9X M3s have relatively bulletproof engines

Satish Kondapavulur > Atomic Buffalo 09/28/2013 at 16:18

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Dealers are trying very hard to get rid of those cars. Look for some sweet deals. But it's still around for 2014.

Satish Kondapavulur > In a Mini; let them mock me as My Mini Countryman is higher than you 09/28/2013 at 16:18

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I'm sure they'll all be taken by now. People tend to move quickly on the JCW GP's because they think they're future collector cars.

Satish Kondapavulur > Eyaare 09/28/2013 at 16:19

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I think the 2014 model will be better and I'd wait for that. The current one has way too much understeer, though it's very good for the money.

Satish Kondapavulur > mytwodads2 09/28/2013 at 16:21

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The Grand Sports are excellent deals at $45-50K, but I'd save up a bit more for a Stingray or even one with the Z51 package.

Satish Kondapavulur > Goshen, formerly Darkcode 09/28/2013 at 16:22

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More than you'd think, actually. I was surprised at how many I saw on Autotrader under new cars.

Satish Kondapavulur > BMW_Bastard 09/28/2013 at 16:22

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With the V-8, I'm sure.

PardonMyFlemish16 > Satish Kondapavulur 09/28/2013 at 16:23

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The 128i is a future classic. Last US BMW with the NA 6

Satish Kondapavulur > thetedderbear 09/28/2013 at 16:53

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I'm guessing yours is an early 335i coupe, where they didn't quite have all the kinks worked out, like that infamous high-pressure fuel pump issue. That twin-turbo engine was quite engineered for the best performance. Some may not have even had oil coolers.

Built BMW Tough > Satish Kondapavulur 09/28/2013 at 16:56

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If you like the Panamera S with the N/A V8, I would get what's left, because from here on out they will have the supercharged V6.

In a Mini; let them mock me as My Mini Countryman is higher than you > Satish Kondapavulur 09/28/2013 at 17:02

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AND BECAUSE THEY"RE FUCKIN AMAZING.

Why aren't Mini making a Countryman JCW GP with rear seat delete, they should because rally car.

Satish Kondapavulur > Built BMW Tough 09/28/2013 at 17:06

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Personally, I'd just spend the extra money and go for the GTS. That car can do things you wouldn't think possible from a car that big.

LTIROCKS > Satish Kondapavulur 09/28/2013 at 17:09

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The advice on installing Recaros in a any C6 'Vette is bad. The stock seats contain a Hall Effect Sensor (which dictate the deployment speed of the steering wheel's airbag) that connected to the car's Supplemental Restraint System. Different seats will results in SRS issues.

Additionally, the stock seats contain a side airbag, which your insurance company assumes will be there in the event that you're in an accident. What happens if it's not there?

Then there's fitment issues. The vast majority of aftermarket seats won't fit in a C6.

I've "been there and done that" with my C6 - which I kept for 3 whole months before selling it in complete disgust. I even bought Pfadt Racing electrical harness, which basically prevented the "SRS" light from illuminating.

However, I sent it back to Pfadt (and excellent company, by the way) once I read that they couldn't guarantee that the rest of the SRS would function properly with their harness in place. That killed by idea of replacing the stock seat. Selling the junk was the easier and better solution.

While my car wasn't equipped with the power telescoping steering option, Pfadt noted that the function was disabled with their harness installed.

The only legitimate seat option I'm aware of is Carvagio's Daytona Race seat. They're very expensive, though. While they use the stock seats rails (thereby eliminating the SRS issues), the seats don't have a side airbag.

www. caravaggiocorvettes .com/pdfs/C5_C6_Full_Leather_Seats.pdf 

b33g33 > Satish Kondapavulur 09/28/2013 at 17:09

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I like a lot what you say here except for your claims about the 335is. I'm lazy and hate typing on my iPad, so, I'm copying and pasting something I posted on the 1M forums on bummer post in response to a guy who was considering selling his 1M for a 335is as a daily driver.

Everything below would apply to the M3 vs 335is argument as well:

My 1M had to go into the Dealer's shop for a couple of weeks to get some warranty work done and they had to ship a part from Germany.

I had a 2011 335is as my loaner during that time and got to know it very well as it was my DD. It was a DCT version in metallic gray. Quite a looker.

These were my impressions in order of priority:

The Bad
Steering - Much, much heavier than the 1M. Also the lock-to-lock seems to take a bajillion turns and seems glacially slow after the quick and precise 1M wheel.

Ride - I'm sure this could be somewhat alleviated by putting some decent tires on instead of the horrible OEM run-flats but the ride is very hard. There is none of the firm but pliant ride you get in the 1M. On the plus side, a friend who took a ride in it mentioned that it was a lot more comfy than her Genesis Coupe! That Hyundai must have concrete shocks.

Handling - Not as sharp. There isn't that immediate willingness to respond to the driver's input. It's almost like the car takes a moment to think if it should do what I want it do while the 1M just says 'fuck it, let's do this!' Also see 'steering'

Acceleration - With the DCT, there isn't a discernible difference between 0-n times on the road. There is, however, a huge difference to me in seat-of-the-pants feel. The 1M is very impressive in 2nd and 3rd and through-the-gears acceleration, the 335is is more sedate and nowhere near as brutal.

Cupholder - This must be the dumbest cupholder design in history. I say this as a B5 Audi owner who's cupholder cannot even hold a full sized coffee mug.

The good
The sound - It's glorious. This is what the 1M should have sounded like from the factory.

Looks - It's a great looking car. Doesn't have the same road presence as the 1M but it is prettier with better proportions

Interior quality - Slightly better interior except for the retarded cup holder.

There's a bunch of other stuff I noticed like the fact that it was narrower than the 1M (based on garage ******* and has an equally poor turning radius. It seemed to attract more attention sometimes than my BSM 1M.

Personally, I could not live with it knowing that I gave up the 1M. In fact, I would get an E46/E90 M3 before a 335is even if I kept the 1M as well.

cartapacio > Satish Kondapavulur 09/28/2013 at 17:25

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The C63 with the non turbo 6.2

Atomic Buffalo > Satish Kondapavulur 09/28/2013 at 17:39

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They built a batch of sedans, and they're presently building a batch of wagons. One rumor is that'll be the end of each. Other rumors say they'll keep building Vs until next June. If you want one, don't dilly-dally.

Also, cars with manual transmission remain hard to find. Dealers are trying very hard to get rid of automatics.

Scott Keelan > Satish Kondapavulur 09/28/2013 at 17:43

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Yup I couldn't find any on Autotrader either. Oh well, I would still take a gently used one in a heart beat.

exizeo - still loving fourza > Satish Kondapavulur 09/28/2013 at 18:52

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Define some. Did BMW pick and choose? No. They put the same exact bits into every car. The only thing that varied was the mirrors (2010) and audio. N54 was a legendary engine, it could be tuned up to 600hp with >15psi boost (similar to what the F80). It was just the HPFP issues, but BMW has a 8 yr/100mi warranty for that now.

The N55B30 in the 335is can't even compete. It's just like a F30 engine with MPPK.

abaiz.2009 > Satish Kondapavulur 09/28/2013 at 18:53

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I love the 135i, just a little bit out of my price range...for now.

Manuél Ferrari > thetedderbear 09/28/2013 at 19:17

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You just made my day. I bought a used 2011 E90 M3 last year over a used 335i or 335is. I could have saved a lot of money up front buying a 2011 335i and I would have gotten better gas mileage when driving lightly and not using boost. But seems like the up front cost was worth it to get the heavy duty N/A engine.

Manuél Ferrari > exizeo - still loving fourza 09/28/2013 at 19:27

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The cost of maintaining an F80 does scare me too. I bought my E90 M3 exactly a year ago even though I knew the new M3/M4 were less than 2 years away. The first model year of the F80 will be the scariest since some bugs won't be seen until the cars are in the hands of thousands of customers.

Also I test drove a 2013 335i and I wasn't impressed with the base car at all. Didn't like the electric power steering or the increased length of the car. My E90 M3 is already so long that it feels more sedan like than sports car like. I also have an E46 M3 and it feels more nimble and closer to a sports car than a sedan.

I am sad that the N/A V8 went away. IMO the perfect new BMW would be an M2 with a slightly downsized version of the M9X N/A V8. I'm not sentimental about BMWs having I6 engines. One of their best cars ever was the E30 M3 and it had an I4. It's better to have the V8 behind the front axle than an I6 running the length of the engine bay.

Manuél Ferrari > Scott Keelan 09/28/2013 at 19:31

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Gently used should be totally safe. My 997 C2 was a dealer demo car and harshly used for the first 12000 miles of its life. I saw it the first day it was listed online before the dealership had a chance to detail it. The car was filthy inside and out and my guess is that the employee who got to drive it for a year drove it like it was stolen.

I've had zero mechanical issues. Porsche's reliability has really gone up since around 2004. Their earlier water cooled engines had issues but any Cayman with a DFI engine should be a safe car to buy used.

Manuél Ferrari > Satish Kondapavulur 09/28/2013 at 19:37

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Agree. My Dad recently got rid of his N/A Panamera 4S. While the car had a ton of power and technology it wasn't as "sharp" as you expected it to be. He test drove a GTS and found it much better. It seems like Porsche used the GTS model to refine the car and make it what the 4S should have been from the beginning.

He didn't end up buying the GTS though. I talked him into test driving a used Ferrari 612 and ended up falling in love with it. It cost him the same to purchase as a Panamera GTS and the V12 is sublime.

Manuél Ferrari > Satish Kondapavulur 09/28/2013 at 19:40

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I agree. The Stingray just seems like a much better car. And even though the Z51 package would add cost it would be worth it. I can't find a better overall value than the Stingray with Z51. IMO it looks more exotic than a 911. And it has the torque of a turbo charged engine with the sound and reliability of a N/A engine. And the 7 speed transmission and cylinder deactivation make it crazy efficient for such a high power car.

Dawsonj > Satish Kondapavulur 09/28/2013 at 19:42

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Why not the 5 door WRX STi?
A lot of people are saying it will only be sedan for 2015.

carguylance > Satish Kondapavulur 09/28/2013 at 20:18

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2013 Camaro. A few ZL1 and 1LE are still out there. Some rebate and discount available, and the tail lights on the 14 will help the resale on your 13.

mytwodads2 > Manuél Ferrari 09/28/2013 at 20:19

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Yes, Stringray I know!!! But this says before the year is out. The Grand Sports are OUT. Also, Stringray right now with z51 (if you can get one) are about 70 to 75k. Grand Sport is a better bargain and pretty much the same power. There is nothing wrong with a C6. It's not like a 1st gen c4.

b33g33 > exizeo - still loving fourza 09/28/2013 at 20:25

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AFIK, the E46 M3 problems were mostly VANOS related and exacerbated by poor and irregular maintenance.

The S55 *should* be a relatively reliable engine based on what we know:

1. 89.6mm bore / 80mm stroke over-square (compare to 84mm bore / 89.6mm stroke under-square of N55)

The oversquare design keeps the piston speed down and improved durability.

2. twin-wire arc-spray coating (instead of liners) in cylinder bores

This is the same tech Jalopnik outed back in 2010 or so and is used on the Ford GT500 as well as the R35 GT-R engines. The article claims that the lining was unmarked after over 250,000 miles.

exizeo - still loving fourza > Manuél Ferrari 09/28/2013 at 20:27

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M9x? You mean the S65B40 4.0 V8 in the E9x M?

exizeo - still loving fourza > b33g33 09/28/2013 at 20:30

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The N55 doesn't seem to have any problems so far other than limp mode (also prevalent with S63 in M5) which people say can be gotten rid of with an engine restart. I'm sure that the folks at M have rectified that issue. After all, the N55 was kind of a replacement for the N54 because of HPFP. The S55 undoubtedly would be great, or at least the LCI will be. Weren't later E39s/E46s nearly flawless after BMW fixed the VANOS?

Either way, engine maintenance is easier if you do what you're supposed to do. Don't be my friends and change oil every 20000 miles. Do routine checkups. Problems foud early can be fixed easier than if the car was a few seconds from combusting.

Manuél Ferrari > exizeo - still loving fourza 09/28/2013 at 20:31

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Sorry, that was a typo, thanks for pointing it out. I tried to correct it but doesn't seem like you can edit a post once it's published. I did mean to type E9X.

The S65 V8 is a true work of art. Just starting it and hearing it at idle is pleasurable. I wish BMW had given this engine DFI and evolved it instead of ditching it for fuel economy :(

Manuél Ferrari > mytwodads2 09/28/2013 at 20:34

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That is true. And since the Grand Sport is priced well it might be a car you can keep for a few years and then sell without losing a ton of money. The Stingray is being marked up right now so better not to buy the first year of it. Buying the first year of exciting new car sucks because you get the first year gremlins and the first year markup.

exizeo - still loving fourza > Manuél Ferrari 09/28/2013 at 20:35

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That engine is a goddamned eargasm. Just being in its general vicinity is great. I don't get why people bash it for being low on torque, 294 is enough and reaching the top RPMs feels amazing. I'll miss BMW N/A motors...

Also, Kinja sucks. Any problem with Oppo? Because Kinja's retarded.

Manuél Ferrari > exizeo - still loving fourza 09/28/2013 at 20:53

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You are the first person I've seen speak the truth so far on Jalopnik/Oppo. All I've seen until today is people say things like "the V8 sucks because it has less torque than the 335i" or "the V8 is pretty nice as long as you drive the car hard, but it doesn't have enough torque to be comfortable on the street".

I read so many negative comments about the lack of torque before buying the car. But I have found it to be MORE than enough for daily driving. Everything is relative. Sure a high-revving 4.0 V8 will have a lower torque to HP ratio than a turbo charged engine or Chevy N/A V8 will have. But there is so much overall power that the torque is definitely adequate. It would be another story if the car was made in 1990 and had a high strung engine with lower power numbers across the board.

I have the DCT and it pairs up really well with the engine. The gear ratios and quick shifts make it enjoyable to rev the engine. It never feels like a chore to drive the car in rush hour traffic.

BMW could have evolved the engine to use cylinder deactivation when cruising like GM did with the C7. It's an absolute travesty that the N/A V8 has died.

And yes, Kinja sucks. Sometimes I can't even log in.

FireSpittingV12 > Satish Kondapavulur 09/28/2013 at 21:30

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If you buy a manual 135is, FIRST thing you need to do is take out the clutch delay valve.

zeksteve > Satish Kondapavulur 09/28/2013 at 21:59

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why inline six? why not inline 4? seriously they have have had everything but a V6 shoved in them

Goofnik > Satish Kondapavulur 09/28/2013 at 22:20

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Yep, because of the markup issue, I gave up a long while ago on getting a Boss 302.

"What's wrong with a $25K markup?"

"At that price, I could buy a Porsche Cayman S". And I meant it — I have a deposit on one.

myfakeevo > Satish Kondapavulur 09/28/2013 at 22:41

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i just picked up a focus st s3

2007mcs > Satish Kondapavulur 09/28/2013 at 23:02

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My dealership still has one. I think with the temps starting to drop it will be a hard sell in the winter because of the super sticky summer tires. Also...a dealer not too far from me has a used one with 5k on it for 32k.

DudeDoYouEvenPeanutButter > Satish Kondapavulur 09/28/2013 at 23:17

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Real BMW fanboys know M3's are supposed to have 4-cylinders.

7liter12598723 > SonorousSpeedJoe 09/28/2013 at 23:36

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I was a bit shocked to see that the 427 'Vert was almost 20% of 2013 Corvette production.

And to see that the ZR1 more produced than the Z06.

SonorousSpeedJoe > 7liter12598723 09/29/2013 at 00:27

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The 427 was a one-year model, and you could get in a number of different color combos - ZR1 wheels, stripes, the 60th Anniversary Package, etc. Doesn't surprise me that it sold well.

I'll admit that seeing 11 more ZR1 units than Z06 units produced is unusual, though.

The Devil Drives a Mustang (Rotary Pending) > Goofnik 09/29/2013 at 00:56

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Why do I smell that those cars will remain on those dealer lots for years to come. Like that one "new" Buick Grand National featured on here some time ago. It sat for decades because the dealer wouldn't budge on markup. End result is it just sat.

blargolapse1 > In a Mini; let them mock me as My Mini Countryman is higher than you 09/29/2013 at 09:32

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$45k for a Mini. You'd have to be a moron to buy one.

Trippin Through The Dew > exizeo - still loving fourza 09/29/2013 at 09:53

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N55 was a replacement for N54 because it got better mileage, which was very important to BMW's fleet measurements because of how many cars they put that thing in. The early ones still had HPFP issues.

exizeo - still loving fourza > zeksteve 09/29/2013 at 10:44

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Don't forget the rumors that BMW was going V6 in F80.

exizeo - still loving fourza > Trippin Through The Dew 09/29/2013 at 10:44

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I'm pretty sure N54 was the only one with HPFP.

But then I don't have an N54, so what do I know?

In a Mini; let them mock me as My Mini Countryman is higher than you > blargolapse1 09/29/2013 at 11:57

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You'd also be a moron to buy a 45k slowmaro

zeksteve > exizeo - still loving fourza 09/29/2013 at 13:56

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I have no respect for the us market i6 m3. Let's see for the e36 we didn't even get a real m3 engine just a bored and stroked m50/m52. The eurospec s52 was basically half of a McLaren f1 engine.

The s54 had serious reliability issues and was a boat anchor with a iron block.

Satish Kondapavulur > b33g33 09/29/2013 at 16:00

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All valid points, but for a lot less money, I think the 335is is an excellent deal, and you would have a lot more fun with the manual than the DCT in that car.

Satish Kondapavulur > cartapacio 09/29/2013 at 16:01

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That'll be on next year's list. But right now, I want the 2014 C63 Edition 507. A lottery win can't come soon enough...

Satish Kondapavulur > LTIROCKS 09/29/2013 at 16:07

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Excellent post. I didn't know any of that regarding the seats. What I assumed is that most people who bought a C6 as a weekend track car would make the necessary seat modifications, and not focus as much on the airbag and SRS issues (i.e. disconnect them). I guess those who would most likely use their car on the road most of the time have to stick with the stock seats.

Satish Kondapavulur > myfakeevo 09/29/2013 at 16:30

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Enjoy it! Those cars are fast!

Satish Kondapavulur > Goofnik 09/29/2013 at 16:31

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You'll have no regrets getting the Cayman S. It's very good.

Satish Kondapavulur > 2007mcs 09/29/2013 at 16:33

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That's an insane price for the used one. For that price, a new 128i or 135i is a much better call.

b33g33 > Satish Kondapavulur 09/29/2013 at 16:38

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Maybe I would have had more fun with a manual BUT I seriously doubt it would have been 80-90% as much fun as my 1'er or the m3.

I just couldn't get used to the rock hard ride and the lazy steering.

Maybe the later models are better.

Satish Kondapavulur > carguylance 09/29/2013 at 16:39

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Was thinking about the ZL1 because of the 2014 redesign. Ended up not going with it, because a lot of internal components have been worked out in the Camaros for 2014.

Satish Kondapavulur > zeksteve 09/29/2013 at 16:41

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I've just always loved manual BMWs with the inline-six. The sounds of the engine and playing with them compared to the V8s is just so much more fun, especially in cars like the Z4M, 1M, and E46 M3.

Satish Kondapavulur > abaiz.2009 09/29/2013 at 16:43

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Trust me, there'll be some good ones among the lease returns in a couple years' time.

Satish Kondapavulur > exizeo - still loving fourza 09/29/2013 at 16:48

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Some of the non-sport package 335i's didn't have oil coolers at launch (per a Motor Trend article way back). Totally agree with you on the N54 being awesome, and the 335is has the N54.

Satish Kondapavulur > Dawsonj 09/29/2013 at 16:50

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Subaru dealers aren't exactly giving good deals on those cars, and I've never particular liked the styling of the five-door WRX as well.

2007mcs > Satish Kondapavulur 09/29/2013 at 17:38

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The gp stickers for 40k+...so your getting 10k off msrp. I wouldnt pay that much though. I'd stick with a jcw with heated seats, sports suspension and black headliner with black challenge wheels

Goofnik > Satish Kondapavulur 09/29/2013 at 17:44

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Actually, after the GTS leak, I got an email from my Porsche salesman this Saturday morning:

"Knowing you, I've assume you've seen this and you plan on getting it instead: "

"Yep."

"Well, figure waiting a few more months, but you'll be the first Cayman GTS we sell then if the rumor pans out."

I can't wait. Spending twice as much as I would've spent on a Boss 302, but it's totally worth it.

LTIROCKS > Satish Kondapavulur 09/29/2013 at 18:13

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Thanks. The overwhelming majority of C6s don't see track use. I see many of them going 55 MPH in the right-most lane, being driven by people who wouldn't know what to do with 250 SAE Net HP - let alone 400+.

I checked Pfadt's site a few months ago and could longer find the harness I mentioned.

I again want to emphasize that Pfadt was great to deal with and they gladly accepted my return - with no BS, no bogus "restocking" fees, etc. And they were completely honest and open about the downsides of their harness (which is limited by GM, rathet than Pfadt).

I strongly considered Carvagio seats, but couldn't bring myself to drop $5K on seats for a brand new, $54K car - particularly after I experienced so many quality issues in such a brief period of time.

It looks like GM has made major strides with the C7 - particularly with the seats. I personally exchanged e-mail with Don Sherman (CAR AND DRIVER'S senior tech editor who has been working at the magazine for roughly 40 years). I know for a fact that Don showed my e-mails and photos to Tadge Juechter (The C7' chief program engineer) and I'd like to think that may input may have had some small influence on the C7's seats.

I'm still a huge fan of the LS (and now LT) engine line-up. I am lightly considering buying a new C7 in 18 or so months - after the "newness" has worn off, any initial issues have been resolved, and the dealer's are offering $4K plus discounts.

Boss2452stolemylunchmoney > 80CobraKid 09/29/2013 at 18:25

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I'd part with mine for the right price...

zeksteve > Satish Kondapavulur 09/29/2013 at 19:15

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fun to rev yes yet the V8 m3s are far Superior in every way

Satish Kondapavulur > Goofnik 09/29/2013 at 19:19

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I love how your salesman just e-mailed you that. How long ago did you place the order for the 2014 Cayman S?

Goofnik > Satish Kondapavulur 09/29/2013 at 19:31

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Order not placed for a 2014 Cayman S. I put a very small deposit down for a 2015, whenever they were announced, so I'd get one ASAP (first crack when order slots open). I'm expecting the GT2 Sport Buckets to be approved for the US market again for 2015, and I really want them so I'm willing to wait longer for them. I'm also hoping Michelin Pilot Super Sports will be N-Specced, so they can come on the car as standard. Plus any firmware updates to ePAS and PDK.

They've had my deposit for a few weeks now. Realistically we're expecting delivery dates of a GTS, if it exists, to be about this time next year. I have to put another very small deposit down to start the order process once they have allocations.

Satish Kondapavulur > LTIROCKS 09/29/2013 at 19:31

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It should be interesting to see who picks up the last of the C6s. Hopefully, I can get to drive a Stingray before the year's out to have an opinion on it.

Satish Kondapavulur > Goofnik 09/29/2013 at 19:33

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In that case, GTS is absolutely your best bet. And I'm sure many dealers were mad about the leak more than PCNA.

TZanfrino > Satish Kondapavulur 09/29/2013 at 23:12

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Please explain this comment, "The ZR1 the cheapest and most effortless way to get a 10-second car. ". I laughed out loud when I read this...unless we are living in the high-from-sniffing-NOS fantasy world of the first Fast and Furious movie, the Zr1 is far from being a 10 sec car (ie new/stock)...as far as I've seen, neither is the GTR...so, if we're talking about not-stock modified cars, I would argue that one can be built for under $20k (esp if starting with an f-body chassis or similar cheap starting point). Most effortless way?...maybe. Cheapest way?...you might be going crazy if you think it's a ZR1...I can't get there even as a Corvette fan.

Satish Kondapavulur > TZanfrino 09/29/2013 at 23:25

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I'll clarify: the ZR1 is the cheapest and most effortless way to get a 10-second car off the showroom floor without needing to put work into modifications, something which I would botch in a heartbeat. If the launch is very right, 10.8 second times are not unheard of.

jahbro > Satish Kondapavulur 09/30/2013 at 07:27

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370z
Speed 3
Mx-5
G37 6mt
Mazda 2
128i, the only BMW still available with N/A straight 6!
Honda fit, I don't know the new one looks atrocious!

kyngfish > b33g33 09/30/2013 at 08:51

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I love the 1 series M so much...but these things are going for over 60k for 20k mile examples. It's nuts.

tekkblade128 > Satish Kondapavulur 09/30/2013 at 09:17

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I had this car on order, until the wife and I found out she was pregnant with our first child.

TheRealZuck > Satish Kondapavulur 09/30/2013 at 09:57

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I'd say if you can't afford a 135is go for the 128i. handles just as good, sounds great without a turbo, and much easier on the wallet. And last I checked you can't race a 135is in the GrandAm ST series, but you can a 128i. so because racecar.

spamilton1 > b33g33 09/30/2013 at 10:04

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+1 for the B5 cupholder comment, terrible design

Satish Kondapavulur > TheRealZuck 09/30/2013 at 12:05

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Wow, did not know about the GrandAm ST series things.

Satish Kondapavulur > tekkblade128 09/30/2013 at 12:06

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What did it end up being then?