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"Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow" (chriskf) 09/14/2015 at 22:33 • Filed to: None

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Help Me Pick Out a New Car Time!!!

Well it’s not actually for me, but my girlfriend wants a new car. Being the car guy boyfriend, I am tasked with figuring out what she wants. So I’m turning to my fellow Oppos for input as well, just in case I’ve overlooked any options.

Here are her guidelines for what she wants:

-Price: $25-35k
-New prefered over used. She’s open to a used car, but I don’t think has ever bought one before.
-Practicality and efficiency are important because she drives quite a bit.
-2 doors prefered, but she understands that contrasts with practicallity so 4 doors is alright. No hatchbacks. :/
-She would like something sportier, primarily in terms of styling. Used to own an RX-8 , until her little sister totaled it, and loved it.
-Needs to be automatic, although she can drive stick (RX-8 had a Manuel). I’d prefer to find her something with decent flappy paddles, as she’s recently expressed interest in giving autocross a try with me.
-Drive type doesn’t matter, since she will have winter tires for the Chicagoland winters and drove her RX-8 all through winter before.
-For options she would like a sun-roof and navigation.

So that pretty much covers the criteria of what she is looking for. Here are the top 3 candidates I’ve come up with.

#1: 2015 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring

Pros:
-It meets all of her requirements
- !!!error: Indecipherable SUB-paragraph formatting!!!
-She’s already confirmed that she likes the way it looks; at least in white
-It’s still a fairly sporty car that I’ve heard is quite fun to drive; more to be determined on that during the test drive phase. (This is also when I plan to see what I think of the ND.)
-Works fine with 87 octane gas, unlike my other two choices; both of which have manf. recommendations of premium only. (This really isn’t an issue, because she can definitely afford premium, but just easier really)

Cons:
-I don’t see too many cons to this one right now. Perhaps just that it isn’t the sportiest looking car on the market?

#2: 2016 WRX Premium

Pros:
-It’s a WRX
-Meets all of her criteria

Cons:
-On the upper end of her price range, and easy to go over depending on the options selected
-Not the most fuel efficient
-CVT...bleh
-Not sure if she will like the styling, because I have yet to discuss this one with her
-Her car would be significantly faster than mine, although pretty much any car she buys will be. :P

#3: 2016 Jetta GLI SE

Pros:
-Again, meets pretty much all of her criteria
-VW’s DSG is about as good of an automatic transmission as you can ask for in this price range, and really in any range before getting to something like a Porsche PDK
Cons:
-Not sure if you can get navigation in the GLI SE. It comes standard on the GLI SEL, but that is manual only. I’ll have to check into this, unless one of you can answer it.
-Not sure if she will like the styling, as I haven’t presented her with this option yet either.

Personally, I think the Mazda3 is the way to go. It really fits what she’s looking for, it priced well, and still a fun/sporty car. So there are the facts, and some of my opinions. What say you?

Updates: I sent her the link to this. Jetta is out, she doesn’t like the looks and no sunroof or nav. She is a fan of the WRX though, and it is currently sitting 2nd to the Mazda3. I’ll have to show her more of the Accord coupe. She is also more excited to go car shopping after reading this, so thanks for the help everyone!

dogisbadob > Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow 09/14/2015 at 22:34

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The Accord coupe fits all the criteria. And it has 2 doors. a Big coupe has 2 doors while being reasonably practical. There’s also the ILX.

pjhusa > Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow 09/14/2015 at 22:35

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FR-S

Dr. Zoidberg - RIP Oppo > Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow 09/14/2015 at 22:36

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Honda Accord Coupe!

Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow > dogisbadob 09/14/2015 at 22:37

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That’s actually a really great option. Hadn’t really considered the Accord. Hmmm...

TheHondaBro > dogisbadob 09/14/2015 at 22:37

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I was just about to suggest that.

Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow > dogisbadob 09/14/2015 at 22:39

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Those are both really great options actually. I’d kind of thought of them, but hadn’t considered them much. I think I’ll put the Accord Coupe in top contention with the Mazda3.

Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow > pjhusa 09/14/2015 at 22:43

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Oh believe me, I’ve thought of that one. It’s what I drive! haha

She really likes my car, but I’m not sure she’d like one for herself. Even in automatic, I think the car might be too sporty for what she’s looking for. The stock ride can be fairly rough, and it’s a pretty noisy car since they left a lot of sound deadening out to save weight. Also not the most practical, but surprisingly more practical than most might think. I hear you can fit a set of autox/track wheels and unmounted tires in the car...

I’ve been considering it, but I don’t think it’s right for her.

Van Man, rocks the Man Van > Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow 09/14/2015 at 22:43

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In that price range, my immediate thought is always GTI (or Miata!), but since she doesn't like hatches (why!?) there's also the GLI. However, the 3 does seem like the best choice, unless you can convince her she doesn't need nav.

Chariotoflove > Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow 09/14/2015 at 22:44

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How about a low-mileage RX-8? She already knows she likes it. It saves money, has two doors, is practical and sporty. They can be had for not much money. As long as you make sure you get one with the engine replacement, it’s a good bet.

Otherwise, I like the Mazda3. Good car. Don't worry that you don't see too many. That just reflects your local market penetration of a new model from a small car maker. I call it a bonus if you drive something different from everyone else.

Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow > Van Man, rocks the Man Van 09/14/2015 at 22:45

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I know, I know. I’ve tried to make her see the light of why hatchbacks are awesome, but she isn’t quite there yet. Oddly enough, she currently drives a Fiesta hatchback and loves it. (Still scratching my head on that one). haha I’ve also tried suggesting the FiST, but she doesn’t seem to be having any of that.

I may show her the GTI in person and see what she thinks.

Van Man, rocks the Man Van > Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow 09/14/2015 at 22:48

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If you manage that, move on to wagons!

Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow > Chariotoflove 09/14/2015 at 22:48

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I’ve thought about pitching that idea too, now that she mentioned she’s open to a used car. She also really likes the 350Z, so that could be an option too. My only concern with either of those is that she gets enough speeding tickets in her Fiesta SE as is. haha

Sorry, my phrasing on the Cons portion of the Mazda3 was poor. I meant that I’m not seeing many cons to going with it. haha I’ve updated it to be more clear. Thanks! :)

Wobbles the Mind > Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow 09/14/2015 at 22:48

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Agree, Accord Coupe. I also like the GLI and Regal Turbo around the $30k mark. Nice if she has a job where appearance matters. Mazda if not so much, VW is a bit more mid-20s, accord and regal are pretty mature.

Noah - Now with more boost. > Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow 09/14/2015 at 22:50

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I’ll hop on the bandwagon! CPO Accord coupe! Warranty + less depreciation.

Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow > Van Man, rocks the Man Van 09/14/2015 at 22:51

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All in good time, all in good time. She’s coming to hang out with me for a track weekend at Road America, so things are headed in the right direction. haha

Noah - Now with more boost. > Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow 09/14/2015 at 22:52

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Lookin’ GOOD. That's a happy car guy in his natural habitat right there! More people need to show face on oppo. Respect +100

Van Man, rocks the Man Van > Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow 09/14/2015 at 22:52

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She's a keeper, especially since she drives stick.

Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow > Wobbles the Mind 09/14/2015 at 22:53

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Well she’s 22, makes really good money (especially for her age), and will be starting med school next year. I know appearance matters to her, but more so that the car is “cute” and not necessarily an expensive brand. She loves her Fiesta SE she has right now, so that should give you an idea.

Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow > Van Man, rocks the Man Van 09/14/2015 at 22:54

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Definitely inclined to agree on that one.

The future neurosurgeon money doesn’t hurt either. ;)

Phyrxes once again has a wagon! > Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow 09/14/2015 at 22:56

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That is a negative on the NAV/Sunroof on that trim of the Jetta GLI, Is this a city driving car or is chicagoland at tax nightmare for considering a TDI?

How does she feel about the focus/fusion?

To play devils advocate: the A3 is just at the top of the price range but I think the Nav package pushes it over to $36k.

Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow > Noah - Now with more boost. 09/14/2015 at 22:56

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Thanks!

I work in social media marketing and have come to accept long ago that if someone really wants my information they will be able to find it. So I’m not really adverse to showing my face, as goofy as it may be. :P haha

Baeromez > Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow 09/14/2015 at 22:57

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V6 Camaro.

Chris Kasinskas > Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow 09/14/2015 at 22:58

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WRX. AWD, Great in the snow. The EPA estimated MPG for the WRX aren’t accurate. With Highway driving you are looking more 32-33MPG. I hear the CVT isn’t bad though I have never driven a CVT WRX.

Noah - Now with more boost. > Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow 09/14/2015 at 22:59

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Lol! I'm a digital marketing guy too, this is funny

Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow > Phyrxes once again has a wagon! 09/14/2015 at 22:59

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Ah okay, then I’d likely count the GLI out. Maybe the 1.8T Sport, but I’m not sure she’d like the more plain-jane looks.

I don’t think she’s really into the sedan versions of either. She has a Fiesta SE hatch right now that she likes, but wants something bigger.

The A3 might be an option. She has the money for it. But with med school and other stuff coming up, if she can meet her needs with a cheaper car (like the Mazda3) it’d be ideal.

Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow > Noah - Now with more boost. 09/14/2015 at 23:01

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Thankfully I’ll be getting out of it soon and into a product management/sales hybrid role. Social media can be fun, but only for a really exciting company that does it well. Those are few and far between, and the more I work in social media the more my disdain for it increases. haha

Chariotoflove > Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow 09/14/2015 at 23:02

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FWIW, I daily an RX-8 as a family guy who does trips to Sam’s Club, etc. the only real negative to practicality, as you already know, is the gas mileage. OTOH, She may decide it’s time to try something new. Good luck. You're doing your job well. Doubtless she will reward you.

Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow > Baeromez 09/14/2015 at 23:02

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Meh. I’d be more likely to steer her towards a new Mustang if I went that route, but that’s due to my own biases. haha

Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow > Chris Kasinskas 09/14/2015 at 23:03

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It’s definitely a good option, but I’m just not sure that it fits her as well. I’m certainly going to present the case for it though.

AWD is great in the snow, but RWD can be just as great with the right tires and is more fun. ;)

Phyrxes once again has a wagon! > Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow 09/14/2015 at 23:05

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Given VAGs propensity to price structure the Audi of similar size right above the corresponding VW it may be worth considering them but most of them are going to be 35-40k, but if the options work out the maxed out Jetta/Passat should be at the top of your price range.

Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow > Chariotoflove 09/14/2015 at 23:05

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I don’t think she’s really considered getting another RX-8. Given how much she liked her first one, I’d really like to find a clean example with low miles and present it to her.

Baeromez > Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow 09/14/2015 at 23:06

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Yeah, I tend to swing GM. The Ecoboost would be a great option though.

Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow > Phyrxes once again has a wagon! 09/14/2015 at 23:06

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All good points. Thanks!

Noah - Now with more boost. > Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow 09/14/2015 at 23:08

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Good luck with the transition man!! I totally understand! From my very limited business experience, I’ve already learned that some areas of the industry really are as scummy as the stereotypes suggest! Which is why I work in the video game industry. We are all at least a little dorky so we get along haha

Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow > Noah - Now with more boost. 09/14/2015 at 23:10

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That’s a pretty great place to be!

I’m in the auto industry, so I’ve found my way into the right place for me too. Now it’s just a matter of getting the right position.

Noah - Now with more boost. > Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow 09/14/2015 at 23:15

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Hell yeah! Auto industry is my end goal too.

Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow > Noah - Now with more boost. 09/14/2015 at 23:16

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All I can say is network like crazy.

Of course, that advice is good for any future job prospects. haha

HEADLAU5 > Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow 09/14/2015 at 23:17

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I DD an S2000 in Pennsylvania. It’s fucking fun.

Noah - Now with more boost. > Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow 09/14/2015 at 23:19

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Thanks! Haha yeah I need to do way more of that, business jobs seem to be 10% luck 10% nepotism and 80% networking. Gotta master that LinkedIn advanced search feature!

Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow > HEADLAU5 09/14/2015 at 23:20

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I nearly bought an S2000 when I got the FR-S. Came close to buying one a couple times back when I lived in Arizona too. Ended up going with the FR-S for a few reasons. Slightly better practicality, if I got the S2k I’d want a hardtop and that means either a longer search or more money (since the loan wouldn’t cover that), and I’m kind of a huge Toyota guy. I love Honda too though, and do plan to own an S2000 eventually. Perhaps if I move back out west in a few years, like I’m hoping to, I will reward myself with one. haha

Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow > Noah - Now with more boost. 09/14/2015 at 23:22

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Exactly. haha

LinkedIn is awesome when it comes to connections and job hunting. I’d also just get out and spend a lot of time in your local car community. There will doubtlessly be auto industry people there who know other auto industry people.

HEADLAU5 > Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow 09/14/2015 at 23:23

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Do it soon because the prices are going up.

Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow > HEADLAU5 09/14/2015 at 23:25

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Yeah, I know. :/

If I were to pick something up right now I’d likely look for a C/R. I was surprised by how “cheap” one in good condition can be had for. Mid to high $20k with fairly low miles. And I expect them to become more of a collector’s car in the future. Plus, factory hardtop. :)

Jayhawk Jake > Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow 09/14/2015 at 23:26

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C6 Corvette

Noah - Now with more boost. > Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow 09/14/2015 at 23:27

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You know I’ve been wondering about networking at local shows but never connected the dots between doing that as a means to get a foot into the auto industry door... time to step it up!

Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow > Jayhawk Jake 09/14/2015 at 23:27

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She’s gotten 2 speeding tickets in the last month in her Fiesta SE. She does NOT need a Corvette. lol

Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow > Noah - Now with more boost. 09/14/2015 at 23:29

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It’s not a bad way to go. Not really pushing that you’re looking for a job, but just making as many friends as you can and maintaining good relationships. People are always a lot more willing to help out/recommend friends if they know you’re looking or hear of an opening.

Jayhawk Jake > Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow 09/14/2015 at 23:30

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No one but me NEEDS a Corvette.

I have gotten 2 speeding tickets this year. The solution is to stop speeding.

Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow > Jayhawk Jake 09/14/2015 at 23:32

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Haha I know, and that’s what I’ve told her. However, I don’t think learning not to speed will be easier with 8 cylinders of American fury at her right foot’s disposal.

Noah - Now with more boost. > Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow 09/14/2015 at 23:36

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Makes sense! I had a couple new acquaintances throw jobs my way this past weekend at a volunteer event.

Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow > Noah - Now with more boost. 09/14/2015 at 23:37

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Nice! Best of luck to you. :)

Noah - Now with more boost. > Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow 09/14/2015 at 23:38

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Same to you! :)

thatsmr > Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow 09/14/2015 at 23:50

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New..Hyundai Genesis Rspec coupe.

Used..2013 Lexus IS 350

Captain of the Enterprise > Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow 09/14/2015 at 23:53

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What about the new mustang? Eco boost for fuel economy and budget

Officer Jim Lahey is not a real cop > Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow 09/15/2015 at 00:49

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Genesis Coupe might also be a good option.

boxrocket > Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow 09/15/2015 at 01:46

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Mazda3 is a great choice. How does she feel about crossovers, especially with Chicago’s roads? I'd also mention the CX-3 and CX-5.

Montalvo > Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow 09/15/2015 at 07:18

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I bought this last month. CPO BMW 2012 335i xdrive with 27000 miles on the clock. Everything is covered for the next 3~4 years too which is nice. All the options ticked except the rear camera which the original owner didn’t want for some reason. Has a sunroof, 300+ horsepower and lb-ft of torque from v-6 turbo goodness. You also have a choice of manuals and steptronic too.

Santiago of Escuderia Boricua > Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow 09/15/2015 at 07:42

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BRZ duh

Chariotoflove > Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow 09/15/2015 at 08:47

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Let it us know how it goes.

Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow > Montalvo 09/15/2015 at 09:23

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If she got an F30 335, I’m pretty sure I’d be stealing it from her every chance I got. haha

Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow > boxrocket 09/15/2015 at 09:23

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Don’t think she’ll go for the crossovers.

Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow > Captain of the Enterprise 09/15/2015 at 09:24

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It’s an option, if she really wants something that sporty, but I think she’s more in the lines of a commuter with a sporty feel.

Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow > Officer Jim Lahey is not a real cop 09/15/2015 at 09:24

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If she decides she really wants to look a 2 door sports cars it’ll definitely be an option.

Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow > Santiago of Escuderia Boricua 09/15/2015 at 09:25

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haha I’ve already addressed the Toyobaru idea. I like it, but I don’t think she wants anything that rides quite so rough. The BRZ is slightly more refined than the FR-S, but I still don’t think she’d go for it. She likes my car though! :)

Montalvo > Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow 09/15/2015 at 09:51

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What really is annoying about it though isn’t the cars fault it is pretty economical when you are controlled and being responsible. However when you have it in the sport mode it holds onto the gear all the way to redline if you want. So every time I set off its like 1500~2000rpm yes I am getting excellent fuel economy...wait foot what are you doing? 3...4...5...6...7 POWER!!!, SPEED!!! followed by school girl giggling from an adult man.

Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow > Montalvo 09/15/2015 at 09:56

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It does have one of my company’s transmissions in it too, so if there was ever an issue I could walk two desks over and talk to our tech guys. haha

uofime-2 > Montalvo 09/15/2015 at 10:00

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and that is why so many worship at the alter of manuel

Montalvo > Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow 09/15/2015 at 10:02

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Come to the bimmer side we have have cookies and trackdays bro!

Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow > Montalvo 09/15/2015 at 10:08

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A track beater E30 or E36 is hopefully in the somewhat near future for me actually. Unless I can find a relatively rust free AE86 that doesn’t have a ridiculous drift tax on it.

Montalvo > Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow 09/15/2015 at 10:18

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AE86 without a drift tax doesn’t really exist anymore. E30s are starting to go up in price too now. E36s are definitely hitting rock bottom now with the m3 soon to surely skyrocket.

Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow > Montalvo 09/15/2015 at 10:29

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I’ve actually found some decent AE86s lately. I’m just having trouble pulling the trigger because I’m waiting on some money to come in, and I’d need to figure out a storage situation for winter.

Lots of E30s and E36s available in the Chicagoland area, but the E30s are definitely going up. We will see.