Starting to Car shop

Kinja'd!!! "maximillious" (maximillious)
09/06/2013 at 16:10 • Filed to: None

Kinja'd!!!2 Kinja'd!!! 100

The ten cars below are what I am deciding between. My budget maxes out at 25k. Rules for the search are No FWD and must be Standard transmission(No flappy paddle), must be stock (or close to it). I am open to more suggestions but please keep in mind that I am in the good old US of A. This will be my daily driver. Please let me know your thoughts, experiences, preferences as they pertain to the below vehicles. I appreciate the help... i am terribly indecisive. - Love, Max

Tobaru Twins

1993 or Great Mazda RX-7

Kinja'd!!!

1993 or greater Toyota Supra

Kinja'd!!!

Any New Gen Pontiac GTO 6.0

Kinja'd!!!

1995 or newer Nissan 240sx (Exception to the stock rule)

Kinja'd!!!

2002-2008 Subaru WRX(STI if possible)

Kinja'd!!!

Mitsubishi Evo 8

2004 VW R32

Kinja'd!!!

Any Honda S2000

Kinja'd!!!

BMW E36/E46 M3

Kinja'd!!!

DISCUSSION (100)


Kinja'd!!! Mikeado > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 16:13

Kinja'd!!!3

S2000 is best.


Kinja'd!!! deekster_caddy > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 16:14

Kinja'd!!!1

As much as I love the 93+ RX7s they don't make great DDs IMO.


Kinja'd!!! POD > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 16:15

Kinja'd!!!2

I know it's not on your list, but what about a Saabaru instead of a WRX? Better chance of finding an unmolested one vs. The WRX.

Kinja'd!!!


Kinja'd!!! maximillious > Mikeado
09/06/2013 at 16:16

Kinja'd!!!0

Have you had experience with that car? It is tied right now for first with the BRZ/FRS but I also live in wisconsin... so i would feel compelled to get something with TC and a hard top


Kinja'd!!! dogisbadob > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 16:16

Kinja'd!!!0

How about a G35/7? RWD, manual available, and 4 doors, and at least as easy to find stock as the cars you've listed.

How about a new Miata? It's always the answer, and you're considering 2-seaters anyway. Brand new for under 25k.


Kinja'd!!! bourgeoisie > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 16:16

Kinja'd!!!1

The 6.0 has a beautiful engine sound, I'm not sure I could look any further beyond that. Though, for my money, the G8 GT (or GXP for that matter, but it's a 6.2 if it really matters) is a much better looking vehicle.


Kinja'd!!! maximillious > deekster_caddy
09/06/2013 at 16:17

Kinja'd!!!0

Thats what I have heard, its lower on my list but i have found some at very amazing prices and I would like a car that I can learn more about the mechanics on... granted that would be a rotary.have you had experience with these cars or is that word of mouth?


Kinja'd!!! POD > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 16:18

Kinja'd!!!0


Kinja'd!!! maximillious > dogisbadob
09/06/2013 at 16:18

Kinja'd!!!0

I do like the g35/7 I actually prefer coupe... I am 25 with no plans for children for at least the better part of a decade. Didnt they make one call the GS-X or something like that, that was a tuned version?


Kinja'd!!! Sparf > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 16:21

Kinja'd!!!0

I vote S14 Kouki or FD3S!


Kinja'd!!! maximillious > POD
09/06/2013 at 16:21

Kinja'd!!!0

I wouldnt be opposed to that. Dumb quest, are they AWD? I thought Saab was mostly FWD. I loved the 9-3 Viggen but that was its downfall to me


Kinja'd!!! maximillious > bourgeoisie
09/06/2013 at 16:22

Kinja'd!!!1

I like the G9 but much prefer the GTO body style. I would also love to rebadge it back to Holden Monaro. just for shits and giggles


Kinja'd!!! maximillious > bourgeoisie
09/06/2013 at 16:23

Kinja'd!!!0

G8 i mean


Kinja'd!!! Who needs sway bars anyway > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 16:23

Kinja'd!!!1

As a good match to the GTO you could get a great Terminator Cobra Mustang for that price.

Kinja'd!!!


Kinja'd!!! Mikeado > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 16:24

Kinja'd!!!0

I'm pretty sure it was available with a hardtop and TC in later model years.

At any rate, I'm afraid I haven't owned one. It regularly won an annual owner's survey in the mid-'00s over here, and give you more bang for your buck than a Toyobaru. Gotta be careful on the limit though, from what I hear.

As a token effort to be the least bit helpful to you, here's a comparison video!


Kinja'd!!! maximillious > Sparf
09/06/2013 at 16:25

Kinja'd!!!0

I love the Kouki styling but am terrified of buying an overly molested 240. if I got the rx7 it would for sure be the FD. I found a great one with under 50k miles for sale near me for 17,500 but i would have to talk him down on that.

My only concern is that both of those cars, while good for their time are dated in comparison to the FRS/BRZ. I know i can get the 240 for next to nothing but the FD would cost alot more, and at that price level i would probs be better off with the FRS


Kinja'd!!! Wave Motion Gun > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 16:26

Kinja'd!!!0

No Porsche love?

I would strike the Supra off the list unless its not turbo, as finding a well kept stock example is all but impossible. You may have more luck with the RX, but it would be a long search to find a good one, IMO.


Kinja'd!!! Party-vi > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 16:26

Kinja'd!!!1

Do not get an RX-7 or E46 M3 as a daily driver unless you have pockets deep enough to replace parts. Not knocking any of those cars but the twin turbo RX-7 has been known to be finicky and the M3 is, well, an E46 with a race car engine. I would strongly suggest the GTO, as it gets decent mpg (if you keep your foot out of it) and there's nothing more ubiquitous than the LS engine so upgrades will be plentiful and cheap (especially compared to the E46 M3!). I also think the S2000 is a great choice - a friend has an AP2 and drives it every day. Good luck, and I can't wait to have a budget that big!


Kinja'd!!! Party-vi > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 16:26

Kinja'd!!!0

The Saabaru in question is a 9-2x and is AWD.


Kinja'd!!! maximillious > Who needs sway bars anyway
09/06/2013 at 16:27

Kinja'd!!!0

While you make a valid point that body style makes me sad. I grew up in a very small town with far too many of those and they invoke bad memories of douche bags trying to constantly race my heavily tuned GS-R


Kinja'd!!! Cloud81918 > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 16:27

Kinja'd!!!0

Throw the 350z/370z in there and the Hyundai in the mix as well.

S2000s are awesome, but I find them lame on the streets. They are boring until you are going far too fast for the situation, then you worry about killing kids. For my money and having fun on the streets, I'd take a less capable car more fun to drive while dialed back to the 6/10ths- 8/10ths area.

What about the Sky Redline or Soltice GXP. You can buy very low mileage examples for cheap. Saw a perfect 7K mile car a few day ago for $17K

Since you are in the cheese state Subaru (WRX/STI) is probably the right choice, especially if this is your only car. They do well in weather.

If this is a fair weather car, really anything you listed would work.


Kinja'd!!! daender > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 16:28

Kinja'd!!!0

The Saab 9-2x is essentially a re-bodied WRX, drivetrain and all, but with with more sound deadening and a more upscale interior compared to the WRX. Also insurance is several times cheaper than the WRX because it's a Saab.


Kinja'd!!! Viking03 > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 16:28

Kinja'd!!!0

I have owned quite a few cars, and the E46 M3 is still the best thing I have ever owned as long as you plant to track/autocross it. I had the SMG which probably had a lot to do with my discomfort in the city. Mechanically it was flawless and maintenance on it was a piece of cake. (All rubber bushings must be replaced.) It really has been designed for actually doing maintenance as long as you don't need to pull the engine apart. I sold mine with almost 160,000 hard miles on her and never needed much of anything. If she does brake it is pretty expensive, but I had great luck with mine. There are some drawbacks, but it was nearly unbeatable on the track. I was always in the top two or three at my local autocross.


Kinja'd!!! POD > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 16:29

Kinja'd!!!0

AWD was standard on the 2005.

The Saab 9-2x was a badge engineered WRX.
http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Subaru_Im…
It even uses the quicker steering rack from the sti.


Kinja'd!!! maximillious > Mikeado
09/06/2013 at 16:30

Kinja'd!!!1

I actually saw this video not long ago. I do hear the S2000 is more than just a sporty car. I love it for that and i love the N/A engine. I know you can buy hardtops aftermarket which is good as well. There is a really cool looking "spoon" hard top for it that you should check out.


Kinja'd!!! Party-vi > Wave Motion Gun
09/06/2013 at 16:30

Kinja'd!!!0

For a turbo Supra he's probably looking at $30,000+


Kinja'd!!! maximillious > Cloud81918
09/06/2013 at 16:32

Kinja'd!!!0

Yep these cars will have to deal with Wisco winter. The FRS i have heard can handle it because of its super intelligent traction control, the S200 makes me nervous. the Sky/ Solstice are not too much my style although I do like that they share design with the remake of the Opel GT ( a parent drove one before me) The WRX is def desirable but being in Wisco they pull a premium (a week before race wars) I have looked high and low and if it comes to that I will probs fly south and get one where they dont need them. Also i hate four doors so that is negative points for the EVO/WRX


Kinja'd!!! Wave Motion Gun > Party-vi
09/06/2013 at 16:33

Kinja'd!!!1

Damn walking iPhone posts. Was supposed to say "well kept stock example at that price" but brain resources were dedicated to avoiding things like falling down stairs. Either statement is valid, though.

He wants a 996, but just doesn't know it yet.


Kinja'd!!! deekster_caddy > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 16:34

Kinja'd!!!0

A friend bought one after a long search. I only tinkered with it and heard his experiences. I didn't wrench seriously on it but I've wrenched enough cars to have a good feel for it.


Kinja'd!!! maximillious > Wave Motion Gun
09/06/2013 at 16:34

Kinja'd!!!0

I would actually look for the N/A version of the Supra, the turbo is cool and all but I dont need it and if I ever want it i will add it myself. Those 40k+ supras are show cars now, I dont want to molest something people hold so near and dear. If i can find a N/A 5spd thats stock i would be happy. I would like to do some of my own work on whatever I buy so i wouldnt mind that at all.


Kinja'd!!! daender > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 16:34

Kinja'd!!!0

If you get a FD, then I hope you have the funds to keep up with rotary maintenance. Otherwise I'd suggest a LS and t-56 swap, it supposedly weighs only a few pounds more than the twin-turbo rotary.


Kinja'd!!! maximillious > Party-vi
09/06/2013 at 16:35

Kinja'd!!!0

The GTO def falls higher on my list than both of those. They are very cool but the GTO is such a F#CK off car its not funny. As I said in reply to another poster I would probably rebadge it back to Holden Monaro just for fun. :)


Kinja'd!!! MontegoMan562 is a Capri RS Owner > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 16:37

Kinja'd!!!0

GTO, GO WITH THE GTO!

COME ON V8 POWER!

COME ON BUY THE GTO! I'LL HELP YOU FIND ONE! I LOVE THEM!

did I get my point across?


Kinja'd!!! maximillious > Wave Motion Gun
09/06/2013 at 16:37

Kinja'd!!!1

Kinja'd!!!

I like this one alot


Kinja'd!!! MontegoMan562 is a Capri RS Owner > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 16:38

Kinja'd!!!0

Definitely rebadge, they are a whole lot more expensive though.

I saw a blue G8 go by me the other day that was rebadged as a holden. New front clip and everything.


Kinja'd!!! maximillious > MontegoMan562 is a Capri RS Owner
09/06/2013 at 16:38

Kinja'd!!!0

I enjoy your enthusiasm to my surprise that has been the most popular of the options


Kinja'd!!! maximillious > Viking03
09/06/2013 at 16:40

Kinja'd!!!0

You are the first person I have ever heard say that about a e36/e46 m3. I love the car, i really do but people on here have scared the shit out of me on it. haha I am going to do alot of research on it before a final decision is made...because... racecar


Kinja'd!!! MontegoMan562 is a Capri RS Owner > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 16:41

Kinja'd!!!0

They are relatively cheap, bigass V8, stick, and kind of a sleeper if it's a no hood scoop version.

And to be honest, I've gotten a ride in a slightly more than stock GTO 6.0 and that thing was freaking FAST. Makes my 68 Montego look like a slug.


Kinja'd!!! Chairman Kaga > POD
09/06/2013 at 16:43

Kinja'd!!!1

It's not even rebodied. It just has a different nose.

Every single upgrade, part, plug-in and bum tickle available for the WRX works for this car. The only difference is they were bought and driven either by hoons who took care of their stuff (like me) or people who had no idea what they had. Find the latter.

Mine had a Cobb AP, STI turbo plumbing and STI suspension. It was quick.

That said, get the Goat.


Kinja'd!!! maximillious > Wave Motion Gun
09/06/2013 at 16:45

Kinja'd!!!0

I did not realize a porsche could be had for so little


Kinja'd!!! maximillious > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 16:46

Kinja'd!!!0

this is a 993 and i suck


Kinja'd!!! Wave Motion Gun > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 16:47

Kinja'd!!!0

Very nice.

Those are fetching decent money these days, and may push the budget a bit, but will likely not take as much of a depreciation hit as some of your other choices. I think the 996 has pretty much bottomed out in price, and for your budget, there are a ton of low mileage examples out there that spent their lives going between a doctors home, office, and country club while occasionally being rubbed with a diaper and zaino.

Just remember that a PPI is a must on any P car.


Kinja'd!!! bourgeoisie > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 16:48

Kinja'd!!!0

The GTO has always struck me as sort of dated, the aesthetic recalls a little too much of the 6th gen Monte Carlo . The G8 is the first attractive Pontiac in a very long time. But, there is a butt for every seat.


Kinja'd!!! Sparf > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 16:49

Kinja'd!!!0

Well, there's always the FC3S which IMO looks really good and can be had for less than an FD.


Kinja'd!!! Squid > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 16:49

Kinja'd!!!0

You can get a factory hardtop for the S2k just like a Miata. There are some decent aftermarket hardtops for the s2k as well. The AP2's had traction control and the stupid drive by wire throttle but the F22c in the AP2's is great. If you can find a CR they came with the hardtop and was tuned better from the factory and is the ultimate stock S2k out there.


Kinja'd!!! maximillious > MontegoMan562 is a Capri RS Owner
09/06/2013 at 16:49

Kinja'd!!!0

I did drive the 5.7 GTO once, raced it against a mid 90s ferarri and demolished it in a straight line. I love the GTO plain and simple... its only set back is its just kinda, big.


Kinja'd!!! maximillious > Squid
09/06/2013 at 16:51

Kinja'd!!!1

Yeah the CR would be AWESOME! I love the color too, its just perfect in terms of S2k


Kinja'd!!! Who needs sway bars anyway > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 16:51

Kinja'd!!!0

My apologies, but it is a wonderful fast car. I had an 03' for many years before I went all Off-road, Jeep and bearded. I was surrounded by D-bags in Camaros and Monte Carlos that thought they were king shits as well, so I kinda hear your point. But my main reason for never wanting a Chevy was cause I grew up Blue and Oval.


Kinja'd!!! maximillious > Sparf
09/06/2013 at 16:52

Kinja'd!!!0

That is very true. The less I spend the more i can spend on my weekend summer car... that is a different purchase all together but I am thinking Datsun 510 or Datsun 610 pickup


Kinja'd!!! MontegoMan562 is a Capri RS Owner > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 16:53

Kinja'd!!!0

In comparison to some of the cars on your list.... yeah I'll give you that it's a little big.

What was your budget?


Kinja'd!!! maximillious > Who needs sway bars anyway
09/06/2013 at 16:53

Kinja'd!!!0

Yeah, that makes perfect sense. I grew up with the big H (honda) in my veins so until i recently picked up an SVT focus, domestic was never really a big thing. the GTO is so fraking amazing and fun to drive while still being practical.


Kinja'd!!! maximillious > MontegoMan562 is a Capri RS Owner
09/06/2013 at 16:54

Kinja'd!!!0

25k is the highest i will go but the less i spend the more I will have for a motorcycle or project car like a datsun 510


Kinja'd!!! desertdog5051 > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 16:55

Kinja'd!!!0

I would vote for the Pontiac or BMW.


Kinja'd!!! POD > Chairman Kaga
09/06/2013 at 16:56

Kinja'd!!!0

There were a few other differences, but mostly just the nose. Which personally I like the nose on the 9-2x better.

http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Subaru_Im…


Kinja'd!!! Squid > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 16:57

Kinja'd!!!0

I think they came in the whole spectrum of honda colors. I am partial to the blue ones though.


Kinja'd!!! MontegoMan562 is a Capri RS Owner > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 16:57

Kinja'd!!!0

http://detroit.craigslist.org/mcb/cto/398286…

http://detroit.craigslist.org/okl/cto/404251…

http://detroit.craigslist.org/okl/cto/398043…

http://detroit.craigslist.org/okl/cto/400589…

Looks like 15-20k will get you some great cars. The thing with the GTO for me is the sheer amount of power you can get for cheap. It's epic when you compare power to dollars. With one of these 15-17k options you could have plenty of money for a bike or a project car!


Kinja'd!!! You can tell a Finn but you can't tell him much > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 16:57

Kinja'd!!!0

I would stick to 02-07 WRX's. The 80's had horrible reviews because they softened the suspension and made them handle worse.


Kinja'd!!! Wave Motion Gun > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 16:58

Kinja'd!!!0

The process has begun. My work here is finished.


Kinja'd!!! maximillious > MontegoMan562 is a Capri RS Owner
09/06/2013 at 16:59

Kinja'd!!!0

The black one with 22k miles is gorgeous and such a good price! I am def going to shop around detroit if car prices are like that


Kinja'd!!! MontegoMan562 is a Capri RS Owner > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 17:01

Kinja'd!!!0

Hahaha, come on out here. Most people are broke so a lower price makes sense! Just check to make sure it's not stolen...jk (kind of).


Kinja'd!!! maximillious > Wave Motion Gun
09/06/2013 at 17:03

Kinja'd!!!0

Haha all you did was make my life more difficult... luckily time is on my side.


Kinja'd!!! Sparf > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 17:04

Kinja'd!!!0

Well, if you want to spend even less you could get an '84 or '85 Series 3 RX-7 (FB) GSL-SE. I'm not 100% on how much one would set you back, but it might enter FC Turbo II territory if it's in really nice shape.

On the other hand, that's what I want to get, so hands off!


Kinja'd!!! maximillious > MontegoMan562 is a Capri RS Owner
09/06/2013 at 17:04

Kinja'd!!!1

haha no shit. I have been wanting to Road trip out to detroit for a while now. might have to sooner than expected.


Kinja'd!!! son_of_nel > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 17:11

Kinja'd!!!0

An STi, of course. I'm very confident that you can find one for <25K


Kinja'd!!! lunchtray > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 17:12

Kinja'd!!!0

S2K is more reliable and fun than the others, therefore it is the best DD material. Roadsters are practical enough.*

*This is coming from the guy who regularly puts 3+ people in his Miata.


Kinja'd!!! maximillious > son_of_nel
09/06/2013 at 17:12

Kinja'd!!!0

As am I. But there is always the issue of some boy racer molesting the shit out of it before I get my hands on it. and for the cost of a mid milage used one I could get a new BRZ/FRS


Kinja'd!!! DailyTurismo > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 17:12

Kinja'd!!!0

You, sirrrr, have excellent taste in automobiles - can I suggest a $13.5k Boxster .

Kinja'd!!!

or a $10k Mazdaspeed MX-5 Turbo ?

Kinja'd!!!

Cheap and fast is definitely my specialty... :) Sometimes something wacky too!


Kinja'd!!! maximillious > lunchtray
09/06/2013 at 17:14

Kinja'd!!!0

Do you DD the Miata? where do you live? I am in wisconsin which has rather creative weather patterns.


Kinja'd!!! maximillious > DailyTurismo
09/06/2013 at 17:15

Kinja'd!!!0

I have never liked the boxter, but I am open to Porsche like the 996 suggested by another poster.

The Miata is a possibility but I would go with an S2k before a miata.


Kinja'd!!! BarryDanger > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 17:19

Kinja'd!!!0

I just bought my GTO on Tuesday and I couldn't be happier. Can't wait to take it out and really stretch the legs this weekend!

Kinja'd!!!


Kinja'd!!! maximillious > BarryDanger
09/06/2013 at 17:21

Kinja'd!!!0

I actually read your post. It is was reignited my interest in the car. Thank you.


Kinja'd!!! lunchtray > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 17:26

Kinja'd!!!0

DD'd it in the New York area, but now in sunny California.

I haven't had it for long, so it hasn't yet seen snow, but I imagine it would be lots of fun if you like drifting.

If your area of Wisconsin is mostly straight roads, do not get a roadster. I drove out west in the Miata and determined that the car is not nearly as fun on the straights. I'd much rather have had a GTO or Mustang in those parts.

There are some things that you get with a roadster that you can't get with other cars. Miata enthusiasts always talk about "Permagrin," a medical condition that affects a lot of us. People you meet (petrolheads or not) will always be gawking at how "cool" your car is. Women (and men who are above the whole "faux-macho" identity) will especially enjoy it. Further, it's incredibly easy to navigate traffic and park when your car is so small and has no pillars to block your vision.


Kinja'd!!! maximillious > lunchtray
09/06/2013 at 17:31

Kinja'd!!!0

Wisconsin is a bit of a mix. there isnt really alot of straight roads until you get west of madison, Im on the east coast in milwaukee. City driving here is good and being in milwaukee the roads are generally plowed. I have a heated off street parking spot for the car so I dont have to worry about being plowed in, but there is the occasional drift/snow pile glocking the driveway.


Kinja'd!!! BarryDanger > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 17:40

Kinja'd!!!0

Anytime! I was torn between this, an M5 and the C5 vette. I didn't know it at the time but this was always the one. This is my first vehicle purchase over $15,000.


Kinja'd!!! djmanila > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 17:40

Kinja'd!!!0

I also vote for the 996 Porsche 911. My decision in a few years would be between that or an E46 M3. Not usually a fan of American Muscle. I've owned an S2000 and its probably one of the best handling cars out there for the money.


Kinja'd!!! maximillious > BarryDanger
09/06/2013 at 17:43

Kinja'd!!!1

well its damn sexy and I am very happy for you. Perhaps, if I go with the GTO, we can one day meet at an owner meeting an take a 12.0 litre drive.


Kinja'd!!! F40LM > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 17:44

Kinja'd!!!1

E46 M3. I kinda didn't want to vote for it, because then I'd be jealous that you get one.


Kinja'd!!! ddavidn > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 17:45

Kinja'd!!!0

The Saabaru that POD posted would be my choice, followed by the R32 then M3.


Kinja'd!!! DailyTurismo > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 17:46

Kinja'd!!!0

Ah yes - I was trying to find some other cars that were not on your list. From personally driving or riding in each one of those cars on your list (except the 240SX, and the supra was highly modified) I would take any of them...but the Supra, E46M3, STi, E36 M3, and S2K would top my list. Drive a few examples of each one before you buy.


Kinja'd!!! maximillious > ddavidn
09/06/2013 at 17:49

Kinja'd!!!0

You are the first person to even mention the R32. I love that car but i hear that VR6 is full of problems


Kinja'd!!! maximillious > F40LM
09/06/2013 at 17:49

Kinja'd!!!0

haha yeah they look like so much fun for such a good price. I am concerned by all the warnings of high maintenance cost.


Kinja'd!!! ddavidn > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 17:51

Kinja'd!!!0

Disclaimer: I have never owned any of them. I have an M3, but it's e36 not e46.

I thought the VR6 Jettas were problematic but the R32s were fine. I'm no expert, I just really want one. But the Saabaru will be reliable and nice...


Kinja'd!!! Spiderman, Non-Italian Imposter of Italian Spiderman. > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 18:10

Kinja'd!!!0

You know, for 25K, you can get into an okay NSX if you spend some time looking for one.


Kinja'd!!! Andy Pstrak > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 18:12

Kinja'd!!!0

im in about the same boat and ive looked at a number of these cars. 1. the rx-7 is a high maintenance girl friend. service is expensive and parts are getting harder to find. a friend has one absolutely loves it and got it for a steal off an old lady that had only owned rx-7s but it is probably down for repairs atleast a month out of the year. the supra, you will only find automatics at your price range excelent car if you want to do the conversion. gto is an excelent machine. big american power, but let me add you may want to look into a used camaro, same motor, but in coup visability is lacking but thats my only gripe. 240sx you are paying for drift tax now a day's and it will either be out of your range price range with a nicely preserved or you're going to buy someone's old missile and have to put some major elbow grease into it. that being said its a great car. the subaru sti's were my origonal thought to upgrade but only buy an sti if you plan on modding, the wrx just dosent hold up to change very well. the r32 as far as i know is fwd. s2k if you can fit definitely sit. its a great car but space is at a major premium and its a convertible so if your in an area of inhospitable weather there is that. bmws are great machines, my dad absolutely loves everything they make. that being said he has had to get replace 4 he has owned because the electronics fouled out. my opinion its too expensive to mod and you can get better for cheaper. however if you just want that badge's pulling power its still a good buy


Kinja'd!!! Andy Pstrak > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 18:14

Kinja'd!!!0

im in about the same boat and ive looked at a number of these cars. 1. the rx-7 is a high maintenance girl friend. service is expensive and parts are getting harder to find. a friend has one absolutely loves it and got it for a steal off an old lady that had only owned rx-7s but it is probably down for repairs at least a month out of the year. the supra, you will only find automatics at your price range excellent car if you want to do the conversion. gto is an excellent machine. big american power, but let me add you may want to look into a used camaro, same motor, but in coup viability is lacking but thats my only gripe. 240sx you are paying for drift tax now a day's and it will either be out of your range price range with a nicely preserved or you're going to buy someone's old missile and have to put some major elbow grease into it. that being said its a great car. the Subaru sti's were my original thought to upgrade but only buy an sti if you plan on modding, the wrx just dosent hold up to change very well. the r32 as far as i know is fwd. s2k if you can fit definitely sit. its a great car but space is at a major premium and its a convertible so if your in an area of inhospitable weather there is that. bmws are great machines, my dad absolutely loves everything they make. that being said he has had to get replace 4 he has owned because the electronics fouled out. my opinion its too expensive to mod and you can get better for cheaper. however if you just want that badge's pulling power its still a good buy. my opinion in your price range. i recommend the gto/camaro , the 350z or the bmw . representation from all the major continents


Kinja'd!!! N51fanatic > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 18:47

Kinja'd!!!0

May I suggest a 2009-2012 BMW 128i M-Sport??

Kinja'd!!!

3200lbs, 3 Liter, 230hp @6500 RPM, 0-60 in 5.5s ish. Hydraulic steering, silky smooth 6sp tranny. You get the driving experience of older BMW's, with the safety and modern conveniences of the new ones. You have E36 on your list, and an E36 was 3200 lbs with 240 hp. Not much difference there. I too was looking for a MINT E36 (my HS dream car) but the ones on enthusiast auto were for $20k+. I started to look at the 135's. But the pricing (CPO 33k+) and the maintenance/HPFP issues of the N54 deterred me.

In the end, i wound up finding a 2011 CPO 128 M-Sport with 17k miles for $25k. The only options are Xenons and Leather interior. No sunroof, no premium, no heated seats, no nav. Almost as stripper as you can get. Yes i know it doesnt have the crazy horsepower of some of the others on your list, but i drive it 3 miles to train station every day and wish i could drive it more. I am sure you read Patricks piece on the 1series being a future classic, give it some consideration

Why The BMW 1-Series Is The Next Great Future Classic

!!! UNKNOWN CONTENT TYPE !!!


Kinja'd!!! Blunion05 drives a pink S2000 (USER WAS BANNED FOR THIS POST) > Squid
09/06/2013 at 18:58

Kinja'd!!!0

Laguna blue or that light blue color???


Kinja'd!!! Squid > Blunion05 drives a pink S2000 (USER WAS BANNED FOR THIS POST)
09/06/2013 at 19:06

Kinja'd!!!0

This blue, I believe it was a CR only color and it is gorgeous, I guess it is called apex blue.

Kinja'd!!!


Kinja'd!!! Blunion05 drives a pink S2000 (USER WAS BANNED FOR THIS POST) > Squid
09/06/2013 at 19:23

Kinja'd!!!0

yeah, that looks to be a CR only color.


Kinja'd!!! maximillious > Andy Pstrak
09/06/2013 at 19:31

Kinja'd!!!0

Thanks for your response andy! I do like the camaro as well but the gto is a little more low key visibly... the r32 is actually awd which makes it really appealing but the vr6 I hear is a nightmare. The supra I would try to source and na 5spd which come in signifixantly cheaper than the highly saught after tt. The s2k is at the top of my list next to the gto and tobaru twins because I can buy an aftermarket hard top... I like the wrx and don't really need sti power but I hate 4 doors. Bmw looks good to me but they are maintenanxe queens and like the rx7 parts aren't cheap. The 240 is great if I can find one unmolested which is hard or find somones nice project...the other day a 385 hp 240 was listed in milwaukee but sold....the car looked bone stock and in perfect condition...all mods were done by a tuning shop...it was perfect which is why it sold so fast.


Kinja'd!!! maximillious > N51fanatic
09/06/2013 at 19:34

Kinja'd!!!0

I absolutely love the 1 series bmws...they look good they are small and they seem rather quick. I always worry about bmw maintenance cost though...in your experiece how is it? I would certainly go for that quiclly if the reliability was there


Kinja'd!!! N51fanatic > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 19:41

Kinja'd!!!0

I've only had it since June, so no maintenance issues yet. But this is the classic BMW 3.0, these things are supposedly tanks. Yeah an oil change will cost more, as will all basic maintenance, but hey thats the cost of entry.

Remember, I bought mine CPO, you can get a non CPO for much less about ~$20k. You can't be worried about maintenance, you have an RX-7, R32, and E46 on your list lol


Kinja'd!!! revrseat70 > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 19:50

Kinja'd!!!0

My dad and I used to share an '06 when I lived just 20 minutes from him. It was our project/fun car. Anyway, I really enjoyed that car. We bought it at 30k and have something like 65-70k on it now, and it has had ZERO issues. It really is an awesome looking car (especially if it's black and you change the rims and you paint the plastic bit on the rear bumper black: makes the car look $10k more expensive). It's a great filter for car enthusiasts because they are the ONLY people who know what it is and what it has. Unfortunately, that also makes every ignorant ricer and rich-boy want to race you...


Kinja'd!!! F40LM > maximillious
09/06/2013 at 22:12

Kinja'd!!!0

high costs at the dealer. you should check out common problems, and then call up local shops for prices, and see if thats something you could handle.


Kinja'd!!! maximillious > N51fanatic
09/06/2013 at 22:13

Kinja'd!!!0

Yeah the rx and the r32 are notorius as is the e46. I will say you have certainly given me a car to focus my research on a bit more. I really like the 1 series... the 1m is my dream beamer so if I could get its little cousin that would be great. Although it costs a bit more the 135 with the twin turbo sounds nice but it also seems you can run into more issues... and I have always been more of a fan of n/a for no explicable reason


Kinja'd!!! JayZAyEighty thinks C4+3=C7 > maximillious
09/07/2013 at 13:05

Kinja'd!!!0

I would get the supra for sure. Being comfortable, fast, nice to drive, beautiful, head-turner, value appreciation, reliability, and having underrated handling are all good reasons to buy it. I am probably the person with the least objective opinion of the supra, but it is a great car any way you cut it.


Kinja'd!!! JayZAyEighty thinks C4+3=C7 > maximillious
09/07/2013 at 13:50

Kinja'd!!!0

I would get the supra for sure. Being comfortable, fast, nice to drive, beautiful, head-turner, value appreciation, reliability, and having underrated handling are all good reasons to buy it. I am probably the person with the least objective opinion of the supra, but it is a great car any way you cut it.

This 6 speed turbo with 40k miles is worse than most fast and furious cars due to the wheels, but it's within your budget.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/199…
So sad. But lose the bling and body kits and it's worth nearly $40,000 judging by the market prices. It's the ideal supra if the douche seller took care of it. A Supra turbo with a manual with good value is usually owned by a dumbass who caused its depreciation, so they are hard to find in good condition.


Kinja'd!!! MontegoMan562 is a Capri RS Owner > maximillious
09/07/2013 at 17:46

Kinja'd!!!0

Come on out man!


Kinja'd!!! N51fanatic > maximillious
09/07/2013 at 19:09

Kinja'd!!!0

remember, N54 (2008-2011) were Twin Turbo, the N55 was a single twin scroll turbo. Supposedly the N55 fixed the HPFP issues that plagued the N54


Kinja'd!!! maximillious > N51fanatic
09/07/2013 at 21:57

Kinja'd!!!0

That's good to know honestly the na 128 sounds more my style....it has hit the top of the list