Oppo Challenge Time!

"JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!" (jqj213)
10/23/2013 at 20:58 • Filed to: First car, advice, help

Greetings fellow Oppo members. I have a virtually impossible challenge for you. It relates to me getting a first car. Now, I have horribly strict guidelines to follow; ones that I do not agree with at all. I’d love your help since I am running out of ideas.

THE REQUIREMENTS

· No more than $7000

· No manual transmission

· No trucks, SUVs, or vehicles with higher ground clearance

· No American cars

· No cars older than 1997

· No cars with over 125,000 miles

· Must seat four people

· Must be reasonable on fuel

· Must take only regular (or diesel)

· Must be easy to find parts for and easy to fix

· Must be relatively age appropriate

· Must have safety features (airbags, traction control, ABS, etc.)

· Should have either a sunroof or be a convertible

Those are all the criteria I can think of as of this moment. As you can see, it really limits my options. I have found some really cool cars that were reasonable, such as a 1997 Mercedes C280 with 120,000 miles for $3,800. Dad said that a kid shouldn’t have a Mercedes for a first car. I found a 2005 Subaru Baja Turbo (don’t ask, I love them) with 130,000 miles for $6,500. Grandma said she thinks it’s ugly and won’t drive a truck. I found a 2002 Chrysler Sebring Convertible with 70,000 miles for $3,800. Grandma won’t go American. Found a 2003 Saab 9-5 with 60,000 miles. Dad doesn’t trust Saab. This perfect car is virtually impossible to find. That is why I am reaching out to you.

I don’t need you to go on your local Craigslist and give one car. Just general cars that should meet these requirements. It sucks because I know what I want, but I cannot get it. I thank you in advance for your time.

DISCUSSION (100)

MtrRider Just Wants Doritos > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 21:01

Your family sucks huge sweaty balls. I must know : Do you hate your parents? Do you want to embarrass them to hell and back for giving you these stupid criteria that basically leaves you with a 2000 Corolla

offroadkarter > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 21:02

I would have said crown victoria, but you said no american cars, so good luck finding something good in that price range, and I hope you don't mind beige!

xxstich666xx > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 21:03

3rd-gen Subaru Legacy GT Limited. Has everything you need. It shares almost all of its parts with the whole of the Subaru line. Also they're rarely over 100k in my area.

Kinja'd!!!

BrownMiataDieselWagon > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 21:03

Don't listen to Grandma, buy the Baja

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > offroadkarter
10/23/2013 at 21:03

I know.. I'd joke about getting a Camry, but they are out of my budget :( (but then again :) to that same comment)

PatBateman > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 21:04

It pains me to say this, but an older Corolla sounds like a good buy.

MtrRider Just Wants Doritos > BrownMiataDieselWagon
10/23/2013 at 21:05

I agree. Grandma needs to pull her head out of her incontinent ass and let you get what you want.

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > MtrRider Just Wants Doritos
10/23/2013 at 21:06

That made my night. That really is all that is left. And it wouldn't be awful if it could be had with a manual, but it can't.

Kinja'd!!!

Gosh that is one sexy ride.

It really does suck. I didn't want to go mainstream, but I don't think I have a choice. The worst part is I can't even afford a nice Toyota or Honda since they hold their value so damn well.

themanwithsauce - has as many vehicles as job titles > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 21:07

Honda accord coupe or Toyota Celica.

The accord coupe will be the cheapest to buy and maintain plus it looks anonymous yet a touch different. Not funky or anything, but different. The celica is another one along the same lines but a bit smaller. Both are stupidly cheap to run.

Here's a honda accord coupe on ebay for less than 6 grand. - http://www.ebay.com/itm/Honda-Acco…

A touch boring for sure, but definitely better than say a hyundai or kia of similar vintage. TONS better than an SUV or minivan. Solid aftermarket for new wheels/tires and maybe get some brakes and a swaybar for weekend autocrosses.

xxstich666xx > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 21:07

Why no american cars and why not manual? Also why do they have so much say what you spend YOUR money on.

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > xxstich666xx
10/23/2013 at 21:08

Its funny because I always look for Subies.

The one flaw is that I'm in SW Florida. They didn't sell many down here. What I'm thinking of doing is contacting my local Subie dealer and have them track one down. I'm okay with buying from a real dealer like that.

They are nice cars. Usually in my area they have a bit higher mileage. I will really be looking for those though. I know they will like the safety (and it has AWD so even better for them)

MtrRider Just Wants Doritos > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 21:09

There is always a choice. First of all, is this your money you are spending? If so, you have a lot more power here.

Once again, your family sucks big ol sweaty balls. Like, marathon runner after a race in the summer, sweaty stinky balls.

dogisbadob > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 21:09

Mazda Protege5 (the 2003 model has a shiftable tiptronic automatic; the 02 just has a regular 4-speed auto)

Hyundai Elantra GT

Infiniti G20

Acura Integra 4-door

Toyota Matrix XR does not have higher ground clearance

Mazda 5

Kia Rondo

Acura 2.2/2.3CL (Accord coupe but with more luxury and prestige)

The 4th-gen Camry 97-01 should work. A step back from the 3rd gen, but still a good car. I think you can get a 4-cyl/auto/sunroof combo.

Of course, nothing is wrong with a Corolla!

I hope this list helps!

The $7000 budget makes it not horribly strict at all haha

themanwithsauce - has as many vehicles as job titles > xxstich666xx
10/23/2013 at 21:10

I have to disagree because subarus are bitches to work on with the boxer 4 to do things like spark plug changes and their timing belts can fail quite quickly if abused (and they are ALL abused) so that also sucks up a lot of $

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > BrownMiataDieselWagon
10/23/2013 at 21:10

Kinja'd!!!

Since it was new, and I was like 5, I said I loved them and wanted one. They are in my realistic dream garage next to the Volvo 240.

xxstich666xx > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 21:11

Basically this is the one you want.

http://nwct.craigslist.org/cto/4118685420…

As long as the headgaskets have been done, mileage really means very little on a Subie.

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > PatBateman
10/23/2013 at 21:11

The only problem with them is that the ones I can afford are either A) too old (for my dad) or B) to high mileage (also for my dad).

They hold their value so damn well I cannot get a decent one.

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > xxstich666xx
10/23/2013 at 21:12

That is really nice. I will try and find one for sure. It still looks good too.

dogisbadob > PatBateman
10/23/2013 at 21:13

Why? The Corolla is awesome. Granted the best generation 93-97 is too old, but the two subsequent Corollas aren't bad at all

xxstich666xx > themanwithsauce - has as many vehicles as job titles
10/23/2013 at 21:13

I got a granny-driven 60k mile example a couple years ago. Fantastic car and other than the headgaskets, not much had to be done to it.

beardsbynelly - Rikerbeard > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 21:14

then get one, it's not a real truck, it's Legacy Outback with a tray.

Nate > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 21:15

Not sure if this fails the available parts/easy service requirement, but there are some Golfs and Jettas available at your budget... (Disclaimer: I don't have much experience with VWs... so seek more informed opinions than mine).

Kinja'd!!!

http://houston.craigslist.org/ctd/4147163352…

themanwithsauce - has as many vehicles as job titles > xxstich666xx
10/23/2013 at 21:15

You're assuming a well maintained one is easy to find and below 7 grand. Those are massive assumptions that...well....make you look like an ass.

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > dogisbadob
10/23/2013 at 21:16

I like Mazda. Are Protege any good though? My dad thinks that I have to get a 3. Its the same thing for the 626. He says I need to get a 6.

Kia and Hyundai are good. I just thought that the earlier years they were not very good.

I actually found a nice Infiniti that I am trying to schedule a showing for on Friday. They are nice becuase they are luxurious yet still a Nissan so easy to work on.

xxstich666xx > themanwithsauce - has as many vehicles as job titles
10/23/2013 at 21:18

I got mine for exactly half that and the one I posted was also a great example. The only Legacies that seem to take any abuse are the 5-speeds but they're easy to point out. They usually have a plethora of yellow fog lights and massive hood scoops.

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > MtrRider Just Wants Doritos
10/23/2013 at 21:19

I'm putting up around 3K, so nearly half. And I hate to say since I love them but they do. Most kids have parents that don't care what they get. This one kid has a 68 Camaro. Another has a 2013 Nissan 370Z Roadster (don't ask how she could afford it).

The worst part is that my parents don't care that much about the rest of my life. They generally aren't that involved. But the first car they really care about.

911e46z06 > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 21:19

Kinja'd!!!

E39 straight-6 dude. Doesn't like 87 octane, but other than that it meets all your criteria. If dad says you shouldn't have a BMW for your first car, make him look at the safety features. Unmatched by anything made outside of Sweden. In my youth, I spun one doing 100 mph and wrapped it around a tree and walked away unscathed. Also, I get over 30 mpg highway with intake and exhaust. And best of all, you can get a really good one for under 5 grand.

You could do an e46 sedan too.

ADabOfOppo; Gone Plaid (Instructables Can Be Confusable) > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 21:20

Wait, I'm confused.

This is a car for YOU to drive, right?

Why the fuck is Grandma worried about driving a "truck" with the Baja??!??!

1) It's not a truck. It's a unibody with a hole cut out that you can conveniently carry things in. 2) She's not the one driving it. 3) It's awesome. 4) See # 2. 5) No, seriously. WTF?

Why no manuals? Can no one else drive them? If so, that's lame. Time they either learned, or get left behind.

Can you not drive a manual yet? Best way to learn is to own one. You'll figure it out pretty quick when you have to be places and don't have any way else of getting there.

themanwithsauce - has as many vehicles as job titles > ADabOfOppo; Gone Plaid (Instructables Can Be Confusable)
10/23/2013 at 21:22

I agree, so is this your own car or is it a family car? Why do they care to this level? Did they not have crap cars when they were kids?

MtrRider Just Wants Doritos > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 21:22

What are the reasons for the restrictions? Why no manuals and why no american cars? Why have a year and mileage limit? What constitutes "age appropriate"?

Velocity- Peuguette Connoisseur > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 21:22

God damn your family sucks. I had really stupid guidelines too, and my budget flip flopped about 7 times, but it was nowhere near as bad as yours. I ended up with an 05 Lexus IS300 (love it), you should look for one of those! The only problem is the ones under 7 grand usually have 160k miles or more, but they do last forever. I've seen them with 400k plus, easy.

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > xxstich666xx
10/23/2013 at 21:23

My grandma is from NJ. We are in FL. Every two months she comes down for a visit. The plan is that we will "share" the car. So she is willing to put up some money. I will be providing more than half of it. Then my parents will throw in a bit and she will. Grandma had bad experiences with American cars back in the 50s-70s. The Caddy she had had the steering wheel fall off in her hands. The Chevy lost all brakes one time and she rear ended a car. She had a Ford, which she just didn't like. And the Chrysler she had just wasn't very efficient (which is why she bought it). They really are dumb reasons in my opinion. It knocked out so much of the available market. The manual is for the same reason. She can't drive stick.

I'd be more okay with a Corolla or Camry if it had a manual. But it isn't an option.

dogisbadob > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 21:23

The 2001 Elantra is the first Korean car worth buying. So yes, it is a good car. The GT model is a very versatile 4-door hatchback with leather, side airbags, sunroof, awesome cupholders, BUT watch out—ABS and traction control are optional, but they're NOT standard; look for a TCS button in the center stack between the AC vents and the radio, to the left. If the button is there, you have ABS; if not, you don't. Also, if it doesn't have a sunroof, there's no ABS/TCS either.

The GT version is also said to be nice to drive as well.

The 626 isn't great; the 6 is a HUGE step up from it. The 6 wagon was only offered with an unreliable V6, but there is a 4-door hatchback 6 with the 4-cylinder.

The Protege is fine. The 3 is good too, but it may cost more.

Yeah, the G20 is one of my favorite cars: economy, reliability, luxury, prestige, and sportiness all in one!

Your boy, BJR > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 21:24

Get a miller cycle Mazda Millennia. weird motor, comfy car, fits the bill. if they say no, compare them to hitler, spit on grandma, shave your legs, run away and become a drag queen. Because that is the next reasonable step.

dogisbadob > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 21:24

There is a sporty version called the Corolla S that includes red gauges, leather shift knob, and fog lights. I think they started offering it in 2000. And yes, the S is available with an automatic.

Tyler's SVT Focus Hates Him > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 21:25

You're not going to get a decent Mazda3 for under $10k with less than 100k miles, let me tell you that. When I went shopping for my first car I looked for a 3 since my family has one, the cheapest one I found was like 8500 for one with around 110k miles. They hold their value like Toyotas. The Protege, however, is in your price range. It's is actually a really good car, too, my uncle had one for around 220k miles before he traded it in and never had any huge problems with it. The Protege is definitely fun to drive (compared to anything else in your price range), and the hatch is great for practicality. If you can find one for a decent price that's in good condition, I'd pull the trigger on the Protege.

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > themanwithsauce - has as many vehicles as job titles
10/23/2013 at 21:25

That one Accord is really nice. The hardest part for finding any used Honda is finding one that hasn't been riced up. So many in my area are destroyed with engine swaps and matte paint and high mileage.

Celicas are cool but not many show up in my area.

themanwithsauce - has as many vehicles as job titles > Nate
10/23/2013 at 21:25

Mk3 jettas and golfs will likely be too old as the last year for them was 1998. If you can get a Mk4 with a naturally aspirated engine, they should be fine. A friend of mine had a stick shift 2006 mk4 golf as his first car and it was awesome. We did our first annual fireworks run to ohio and back on a tank of gas and filled the hatch with over 100$ of post-4th of july fireworks so we basically would've been in trouble in the event of a rear collision. Damn thing was fun yet easy to drive and could do anything you asked of it. Many came with sunroofs.

My advice - get a 2-door golf Mk4 with the naturally aspirated motor. Easy enough to work on, very safe in a crash (as my friend can attest to) and it will do everything your teenage ass could want or need. Yes, that does include.....adult situations. Although my conversion van had my friend's golf beat 8 ways to sunday on that front :P

911e46z06 > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 21:27

I concur. Had super good times hooning a Baja once. Also, modern day El Camino.

xxstich666xx > xxstich666xx
10/23/2013 at 21:27

...

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > Your boy, BJR
10/23/2013 at 21:27

Haha thats great. I never relaized older Mazdas were good cars. My dad personally wants to stay with newer nameplates like the 3 and 6. But I will try since the older stuff is nicer and in my price range.

themanwithsauce - has as many vehicles as job titles > xxstich666xx
10/23/2013 at 21:27

In all fairness, it might not be his money. I can;t see where he specifies that it is his own.

xxstich666xx > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 21:27

She does realize this isn't the 50's-70's anymore lol. Build quality has gotten much better. I'd say go for a Lincoln TownCar. The reliability and RWDness of a Crown Vic with the cushy ride Grandma will enjoy. :D

xxstich666xx > themanwithsauce - has as many vehicles as job titles
10/23/2013 at 21:28

That's true.

themanwithsauce - has as many vehicles as job titles > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 21:29

What is your area? And definitely search weekly for these cars since you never know when someone has to move or grandma/grandpa croaks and the kids want to get rid of ol' faithful in the garage.

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > dogisbadob
10/23/2013 at 21:29

That is the same problem I have with older Civics. They were only options. Thanks for the heads up.

Didn't know a 6 hatch existed. Only knew the sedan and wagon.

And I will really look for Infiniti since they were good cars.

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > Tyler's SVT Focus Hates Him
10/23/2013 at 21:30

I know a lot of Proteges are on there. I will try and weed out the bad ones and take a look at the good ones.

Thanks for your advice!

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > Velocity- Peuguette Connoisseur
10/23/2013 at 21:31

The budget is honestly the hardest part. Finding newer cars with lower mileage with a low budget is not easy. Then, knock out all American cars and trucks. It limits you.

themanwithsauce - has as many vehicles as job titles > xxstich666xx
10/23/2013 at 21:32

I read in another comment stream only 3k of it is his own. Plus it sounds like other family members might need it from time to time. Perhaps it will be "all his" when he graduates high school?

PRBot II > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 21:32

Must seat four people

Damn, I was going to say Miata.

Dad doesn’t trust Saab.

Damn, I was going to say... my 1999 Saab has 264,000 miles on the clock and still going strong. Also, turbo is awesome.

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > MtrRider Just Wants Doritos
10/23/2013 at 21:34

I'd be more okay with a Corolla or Camry if it had a manual. But it isn't an option.

My dad claims that there is some rule that your first car shouldn't be older than you (wher the hell thats from I don't know.)

He also feels that I'm too young to drive a Mercedes or BMW or similar. He pictures a first car as a Chevy Caviler for me (yet grandma would turn that down anyway). It really is a huge conflict of interest.

The Opponaut formerly known as MattP123 > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 21:35

Police interceptor?

xxstich666xx > themanwithsauce - has as many vehicles as job titles
10/23/2013 at 21:35

I had a friend do that with is parents. lucky for him it was a 1988 Ford Mustang LX 5 speed.

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > ADabOfOppo; Gone Plaid (Instructables Can Be Confusable)
10/23/2013 at 21:36

I don't know. Tried to explain to her that it isn't a truck. Its an Outback with a roof chopped off. She wouldn't have it.

My mom is a fan of the manual since it would be hard for me to text (but I NEVER use my phone while driving for personal reasons)

Granny and dad can't drive one.

It'd be really easy for me too since I'm in FL which is really flat. so no major downshifts or rolling.

cbell04 > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 21:37

Nissan maxima? I've owned 2.. Ran both north of 170k miles with little to no issues that I didn't cause myself.. In that price range should be able to get the top of the line gle model that is very nicely equipped. Check them out you won't be disappointed.

dogisbadob > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 21:37

Sure, np. But at least with the Elantra you can tell right away if it has them! Here is a picture of the TCS OFF button on the 2001-03 Elantra. The 04-06 dash is slightly different.

Kinja'd!!!

Here is the Mazda 6 hatchback:

Kinja'd!!!

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > 911e46z06
10/23/2013 at 21:38

I'd like one. The only real fear I have is repair costs. But some of them are relatively cheap to maintain.

I try to explain to my dad that I could buy a Camry that could be a total lemon. I could also get a Saab which would never end up in the shop and be perfect. It is all about who built the car that day and who drove it previously.

That is why I hate used cars. You don't know their past.

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > Nate
10/23/2013 at 21:39

The only problem I have heard is that earlier Jettas/Golfs like that had horrible autos that always needed replacing. This is from a ton of people too. Otherwise I'd like one.

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > beardsbynelly - Rikerbeard
10/23/2013 at 21:39

And look at it. Its so cool and different.

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > themanwithsauce - has as many vehicles as job titles
10/23/2013 at 21:40

I'm in SW Florida. I've seen a few that were estate sales or similar but could never get to see them in time. People jump on them.

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > xxstich666xx
10/23/2013 at 21:41

Dad doesn't believe me when I say Vics are reliable. He doesn't understand that they are used by all taxi companies and police forces for a reason.

Mustafaluigi > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 21:41

2000 - 2005 vw Passat with the 1.8t tiptronic and the option of awd, wagon or both in both trim levels. Low 30s mpg and a fun larger 4 door sedan.

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > PRBot II
10/23/2013 at 21:42

I'd love a Saab. Some people have no issues with them. My dad had a 93 9-3 convertible. It burst into flames so he doesn't trust them.

911e46z06 > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 21:43

Very true. I'd say the most important thing to do no matter what you buy is have a good mechanic look at it. It will cost you some money, but it's nothing compared to the money and headache it could potentially save you.

You could also get an e36 4-banger. Change the oil every now and then and it will last longer than you will. My uncle had one with almost a million miles on it. They're fun. Take the seats and stuff out for the weekend and you have a super-light autocrosser.

xxstich666xx > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 21:45

Sounds like the same kinda guy who thinks video game systems can break tv's. My friends day to this day says an N64 took out his brand new Sony Trinitron.

Axel-Ripper > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 21:45

There's a few options (yes, I read around the other comments to see your situation):

1.) Don't go in halvsies with Grandma and get whatever the hell you want

2.) Get a Focus hatch and try to explain to Grandma that its actually designed by EUROPEAN Ford

3.) Get a Civic, Accord, or Prelude, preferably in the SI/SH trim.

4.) BMW E36 Convertible.

Thats about all I can think of other than the Subarus/Mazdas that have been mentioned here. Unless you can get an auto Mazdaspeed3 for that price.

desertdog5051 > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 21:46

Are you paying for it with your money? That could make a difference.

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > desertdog5051
10/23/2013 at 21:47

I'm putting up around half of it... then parents and grandma are putting in the rest.

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > xxstich666xx
10/23/2013 at 21:48

Yup. that is pretty much him.

Thats a funny one, glad he isn't that bad.

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > 911e46z06
10/23/2013 at 21:49

I'm lucky because my neighbor across the street is a certified ASE mechanic and has his own little shop. He gives us great rates and said he'd happily check out the cars for little money.

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > Mustafaluigi
10/23/2013 at 21:50

My dad had an 03 Passat. It was great. I'm just worried about repiar bills if they are needed.

John Norris (AngryDrifter) > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 21:52

A little above $7000, but otherwise an excellent match.

First Car

Kinja'd!!!

desertdog5051 > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 21:52

Hmmm... That could be a problem. Maybe ask them why they want all these conditions. A lot of times they are rooted in ideas that have been proved wrong over time. Good luck.

themanwithsauce - has as many vehicles as job titles > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 21:54

Try this Mk5 Jetta

It's the base model so not much electrical to go wrong. I call it a "salesman's car" since they're the type that can go for 200k+ on the highway. This one should be somewhat near you so maybe your dad will be willing to drive you out to get it.

It isn't my first choice, but it is 4 wheels and an engine. For a first car, that's all that matters. Those jettas are decently tough and pretty solidly built. The Mk5 is a banner generation for the jetta in general. The Mk4 could get complicated and difficult to fix quite fast and the Mk6 was a pile of rubbish at the base trim level. The Mk5 hit a great sweet spot. Very popular car, lots of spares are readily available, and it's a slightly handsome beast if you keep it polished and clean. I recommend you ask your dad to swing by a pace to pick up a polisher and some good wax and cleaning supplies to keep it looking sharp. From the sounds of things, that would improve their opinion of you if you are willing to spend that extra time and effort to keep your car looking good despite it being a simple sedan.

aquila121 > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 21:54

- 2004 and up Mazda 3. Sold relatively well, so parts are plentiful. Not American, or German, or Swedish weird, so your family's brand biases should give this a pass. Lots of examples with automatics, which sucks if you want to learn to row your own gears. Still peppy and fun-to-drive, though. Decent gas mileage and space, for its compact size. Reliable, so I hear.

Rather than echo the wonderful jabs at your family setting these rules, I'll say that my first car felt like a similar experience: I wanted something that was a stick-shift, that handled, and was from Japan's golden age (90's). I ended up with a 1989 Plymouth Acclaim—3-speed auto, barely 100 hp, peeling paint, just a boxy piece of shit all around. But for a first car, it was great: I broke it numerous times, and the engines were super-cheap. Threw a rod gunning it on the highway? New motor thrown in. Blown head gasket? Engine #3 comes along. Each time, the repairs were under $400. It lasted me five years, and I almost miss it, it was such a worthless pile, but I just didn't care. If I could've swapped it for a manual transmission, I'd probably still have it. Oh, and it taught me that tires make a huge difference in overall vehicular awesomeness.

Bottom line, just remind yourself that your next car down can be something more what you want—everyone's first car isn't perfect. It's a right of passage. Oh, and slap some bumper stickers on it to piss off your grandmother.

xxstich666xx > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 21:57

Show him this.

Kinja'd!!!

Or this. That car hit the payphone during a pursuit and then DROVE BACK TO THE STATION LIKE THAT!!

Kinja'd!!!

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > John Norris (AngryDrifter)
10/23/2013 at 21:58

I've been looking for older Infinitis.. thats a nice one

PRBot II > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 22:01

It burst into flames?! Good Lord, did he put a Ferrari badge on it? (kidding)

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > themanwithsauce - has as many vehicles as job titles
10/23/2013 at 22:02

Wow.. thats really a nice one... I'm actaully about 30 minutes from there. I think I'll contact the seller maybe try to see it. Thats a great find there!

I found a 2006 that was similar, but it was in an accident (with a rebuilt) so it was a no. but this.

I really appreciate you finding this one.

MtrRider Just Wants Doritos > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 22:07

I understand your grandma not being able to drive stick, but she needs to understand how outdated her opinions of American cars are. Remind her that in the forty years and ten Presidential administrations since the 1970s, cars have changed. Not just the vehicles, but the industry. Tell her that many Fords are Mazdas and some GMs are Toyotas.

As for your dad, well... Fuck. That's tough, because there's no logic behind it at all. And you'd be better off with a bus pass than a Cavalier.

themanwithsauce - has as many vehicles as job titles > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 22:08

No problem. I also had a crappy, not what I wanted, automatic transmission, car dictated by my parents too after they sold my van because it was "too much for a sixteen year old". Of course this was back in 2005/2006 so my 1997 chevy was "newer" than it would be now.....

Kinja'd!!!

But remember, an offset stripe, a screwdriver, some glue, and a hell of a pair of balls can yield some good results out of anything with four wheels and an engine.

Kinja'd!!!

And yes, I did make the rear say "CAR LOL". GM made a mistake in spelling out "Monte Carlo" three times on that car.

ADabOfOppo; Gone Plaid (Instructables Can Be Confusable) > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 22:09

I think it's time for you to tell Dad and G-ma to stop living vicariously through you and let you pick your car.

Is this going to be a family car, or completely yours? If it's a family car, then I guess I can understand why they'd want to able to drive it.

However, if you're the only driver, then Dad and G-ma need to shut up and let you choose.

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > MtrRider Just Wants Doritos
10/23/2013 at 22:10

I know its true. look at the Pontiac Vibe.. its a Matrix... she doesn't get it... as for my dad, I know... there is little logic.. also there is little logic nehind the fact that the car shouldn't be older than me

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > PRBot II
10/23/2013 at 22:11

Yup.. it was sitting in our driveway. He went to start it and the center console was smoking. A few minutes later, it was engulfed. It turned out to be an electrical fire.. the seat warmer wire went bad..

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > ADabOfOppo; Gone Plaid (Instructables Can Be Confusable)
10/23/2013 at 22:12

G-ma will be driving for about one week every three months (when she comes to visit). Thats it. Otherwise, its mine.

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > themanwithsauce - has as many vehicles as job titles
10/23/2013 at 22:13

I love the stripe... and LOL is great on there..

You really can have some fun driving anything.

themanwithsauce - has as many vehicles as job titles > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 22:15

The best was that my preferred racing number was 707. My joke was if I ever flipped it (and I came reeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeally close one time), someone needed to take a picture because it would show up on camera as LOL in giant tape letters.

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > themanwithsauce - has as many vehicles as job titles
10/23/2013 at 22:16

Body roll FTW... I mean, look at the pic you showed me... thats so much.

MtrRider Just Wants Doritos > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 22:18

Who's paying for maintenance and insurance? If it's not you, buy a expensive car. Let them take it where the sun don't shine, and Oppo can tell you what maintenance nightmares to get. If you can save more money, you can buy your own car outright and they can't say shit about it. Grandma can get her own wheels.

Hell, 3 grand can buy a really decent motorcycle. That would be even cheaper to own, better on gas, and much more fun.

911e46z06 > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 22:20

Beautiful. That's the main thing. Find something that makes you look over your shoulder every time you park, make sure it's in good shape, and buy it. If you have to, tell grandma to piss off and buy something cheaper. E30, Beetle, Miata, Camaro, Mustang, truck, that kind of thing.

ADabOfOppo; Gone Plaid (Instructables Can Be Confusable) > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 22:32

Lame.

I'm out of ideas. Your list of requirements rules out about everything. Methinks they'd rather you not have a car at all.

Do you have a job? Can you get one? Do you have $1,000? I'd buy the first non-leaking running hulk you find on CL and tell Dad and Grandma to fight over their car without you.

Slant6 > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 22:40

Volvo.

They're very safe. They depreciate a lot so they're cheaper than they should be (Saabs are the same way). For $7000 you could get a fairly recent one (S60?). They're not that quick, but they're faster than Corollas and Camrys. They also have a tendency to last forever. They're like Saabs more mature older brother.

I drive a Saab. Volvo is the next best thing besides maybe Subaru. Saabaru would be a good choice, but I understand your family doesn't understand badge engineering.

Good luck

Where have all the lightweights gone? > dogisbadob
10/23/2013 at 22:40

The Matrix XR/Pontiac Vibe is a solid car. They were made at the NUMMI plant with Toyota guts. It's reliable, seats 4 comfortably (I'm 5'11" and fit fine on longer road trips in the back), and most come with a sunroof.

Where have all the lightweights gone? > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 22:42

More like when they are needed.

dogisbadob > Where have all the lightweights gone?
10/23/2013 at 22:44

Only the Vibe was made in the NUMMI factory. The Matrix was made in Canada. Come to think of it, that's like the perfect metaphor because the differences between the two cars are analogous to the differences between the two countries haha

PRBot II > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 22:46

Holy cow. That's a pretty rare story... I've been a Saab enthusiast/driver for the last 12 years, and that's almost unheard of.

Anyway, going back to your main post, it sounds like a Subie might be in your future ;)

revrseat70 > Velocity- Peuguette Connoisseur
10/23/2013 at 22:49

Yup. Same thing happened to me. I started driving to learn at age 11, learned stick on a 11 second mustang, and could back a ram 1500 quad cab into a single garage no sweat before I had a license. But my mom had all these criteria even though it was my money. My dad was all but cheering me on to get a GTO or Cobra but I ended up with an IS300 because I knew about the 2JZ and it fit her checklist. Supercharged it too. Based on that fact alone she said it might have been better to go with the faster car from the start... However, that was a great car, and I still miss it from time to time. If you can find one that's been taken care of: any year, just about any mileage... you can't do much better. Alternatives could be a Subaru RS or some form of e36 if your dad thinks a BMW is more humble than a Merc.

GhostZ > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
10/23/2013 at 23:00

Refuse to drive.

Explain to them that their criteria for a car would leave them off with a worse car for both you and them. Explain to them that they are costing themselves and you time, money, and safety, but putting relatively arbitrary conditions on you. If they won't change those conditions, then for your own safety and savings, you will not drive the car they choose for you.

Next, if they say you "have" to drive or force you to drive for them, say that if they want you to drive, then you either get to re-negotiate the terms, or you will buy your own car. I hope you have enough money saved up that you can actually go out and buy your own car, even if it's a 1000$ beater, so that the threat isn't hollow. If you don't have that much money saved up by now... well, that's your own fault. You're legal working age and there are many ways to make money before you reach legal working age. This is the nuclear option, where everybody loses a lot since they refuse to even accept a little concession for your sake.

This prospect will make them realize that if they force you into their (poorly designed) ideas about a car, you will be forced to take matters into your own informed hands, and end up with a worse car than if they had just been more reasonable.

So your timeline is this:

1. Your rules are arbitrary and wrong, and I have data and logic to support why. We must renegotiate your criteria. I cannot force you to buy me a better car, but I can refuse to drive the bad (in terms of value, mechanical ability, manufacturing quality, etc.) car you want to buy me.
2. (they say no) I refuse to drive until you renegotiate.
3. (they try to force you to drive for them) If you force me to drive, then I will buy my own, extremely shitty car, because, according to your criteria, I can make more informed decisions about cars than you can.
4. Wait a few weeks while they slowly lose their minds.
5. Renegotiate and get a better car.

Trust me, a few weeks without a car will suck for a short time, but it will very quickly convince them that yes, they need to approach this maturely and rationally and negotiate these criteria reasonably.

That being said...

Kinja'd!!!

My suggestion is a 2001-2002 Nissan Maxima GLE. It might be hard finding one under $7000, but if you can find a deal, they are fantastic cars. They have the engine from the N/A 300ZX, and are good up to about 150mph or so. 210+HP on 2900lbs will do that. They were supposed to be limited to 120mph. They're not. The one I drove was an anniversary edition, so it had the Infiniti i30 engine and transmission, and it was good up to around 145. They handle well, don't feel like boats, have the most comfortable seats I have ever seen in an older car . They don't look good, but they have it where it counts.

I drove a Lexus ES300 of a similar year and it was absolutely shitty compared to the FWD Maxima, yet is widely considered a more expensive, better car.

All in all, you are really damned lucky that they will be spending $7000 on a new car for you. I bought my first car for $200 (1991 Nissan Maxima, VG30E, 155HP ~ 2700lbs)

Cut the umbilical cord early. You live in a country where being smart and informed means you can do pretty much anything by playing your cards right. Being forced to rely on your family for money, transportation, and support will only hold you back from what you want eventually, unless you plan on working for/with them for the rest of your life.

Where have all the lightweights gone? > dogisbadob
10/23/2013 at 23:06

I thought they were both built together at NUMMI pre-financial crisis

dogisbadob > Where have all the lightweights gone?
10/23/2013 at 23:09

Nope. The Matrix was Canada-only.

The NUMI factory was making Vibes/Voltzes, Corollas, and I believe Tacomas aswell