Seeking the collective help of you fine people - Used car search

"RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names" (mile-rei-club) 06/08/2016 at 14:55 • Filed to: None

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The surprisingly capable 4wd Pathfinder.

After years of anonymous lurking on Jalopnik and Oppo, thoroughly enjoying the wealth of entertainment and information you all produce, I’ve decided to make my first post. Exciting!

Recently, my little brother’s 2003 Pathfinder (pictured) suffered its last shenanigan during an ill-advised, somewhat clandestine off-roading adventure. My parents weren’t happy about it, but they’re still willing to help him out with a new (old) car, for whatever reason. In short, I’m wondering what you guys recommend for a 17-year-old who doesn’t really like cars but likes to be comfortable.

We’d gotten the Pathfinder for about $5,000 from a friend, so I guess that’s as good a place as any to start, budget-wise. Other loose qualities: 4-door sedan; slow but not unmanageably so; higher trim (leather, electronics, etc); safe; reliable.

I have a couple ideas floating around, most based on the philosophy of trying to find a reliable, cheap car that emphasizes options and comfort over core quality:

Early 2000's Lexus GS300 - $4,000-6,000 on CL for decent examples. Comfortable, not complete slouches, and “dtg11 - Now with 100% more 2JZ” seems to be pretty stoked about his or her late-90's model!

Mk5 VW Golf - Mid-generation models are going for around $4,000, it looks like. Three doors would be perfect, but I’m worried about reliability. Can anyone advise here?

Mid-2000's Nissan Altima - Right down the middle of the fairway, here. Personally, I wouldn’t actively seek something so thoroughly beige, but for my kid brother’s purposes this might be perfect. Can be had for almost any price depending on the mileage and vintage, with a variety of options. Haven’t heard anything specific about reliability here, but I have to assume it’s pretty good due to the sheer number I still see on the road.

On second thought, there’s no real theme here. Feel free to suggest random, fun stuff. I guess I’d say no projects, but I’m bored at work so anything interesting is welcome. Thanks, as always, Oppo!

Dru > RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names 06/22/2016 at 12:05

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My vote goes to 3rd gen 4Runner. They are super reliable, slow but not put-me-out-of-my-misery slow. Plenty comfortable and versatile, and their value retention is legendary.

https://greensboro.craigslist.org/ctd/5619923849…

RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names > Dru 06/22/2016 at 12:12

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1) Bonus points for tracking this down before I could even post it on Oppo (still waiting on authorship)!

2) Solid suggestion. I like 4Runners in almost any vintage, so I’ll definitely add it to the list. I think the tough part will be finding one that’s clean and mechanically sound... I don’t have to worry about rust out here in Arizona but I was under the impression that clean 4Runners avoid depreciation almost as well as Tacomas. I’ll check it out!

Dru > RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names 06/22/2016 at 12:20

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Haha. Saw it in the sidebar when I clicked on your comment. Being in AZ, I suppose a T4R in charlotte doesn't do much good, but they are out there. And even if they are higher on you guys' price range, they will still be worth a considerable amount when you go to sell.

Pacer Racer > RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names 06/24/2016 at 12:19

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You know, while you or I would probably be bored out of our minds in one, an ES300 sounds perfect for this kid. They’re dirt cheap, ultra comfy, reliable as the sunset, and they’re front wheel drive so they reduce chances of dorifto-induced death (tray sliding notwithstanding).

If you like that idea but want something a little more exciting, then the Nissan Maxima is the car for the job. Find one with a five speed and you have a safe semi-luxury sedan that’s also suprisingly fun to drive.

If he wants to stick with a 4x4, it’s hard to beat a Grand Cherokee for the combination of luxury, low purchase price, and off road prowess.

S65 > RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names 06/28/2016 at 19:00

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Lexus ES300

Steve is equipped with Electronic Fool Injection > S65 06/28/2016 at 19:02

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Excellent choice. A Camry in a nice suit. Will almost never break - and then won't be expensive when it does.

S65 > Steve is equipped with Electronic Fool Injection 06/28/2016 at 19:03

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Looks good too

RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names > S65 06/28/2016 at 19:04

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This over the GS? Any particular reason other than cost?

S65 > RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names 06/28/2016 at 19:09

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Cost

RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names > Pacer Racer 06/28/2016 at 19:10

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That’s what I’m thinking, too... I’ll look into the Maxima/Altima as well. I like the idea of the Grand Cherokee, but I might have trouble convincing everyone seeing as the last 4x4 didn’t really survive all that long!

lone_liberal > RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names 06/28/2016 at 19:11

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I don’t personally like CVTs and most Altimas are going to have one so I’d pass on that, and I’d worry about the VW’s reliability, so from your list I’d go with the Lexus. Any reason you’re not thinking direct replacement of the Pathfinder?

RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names > S65 06/28/2016 at 19:11

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Fair.

BugEyedBimmer - back in the Saddle Dakota Leather > RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names 06/28/2016 at 19:12

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The 5 cylinder VWs are bulletproof. Try to find a later Mk5 model with the 170hp version of the engine. They’re great fun and super all around cars.

RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names > lone_liberal 06/28/2016 at 19:13

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I don’t like CVT’s pretty much on principle, but I honestly don’t think my brother would be able to tell the difference. I drove the Pathfinder before he did, and I absolutely loved it. Would buy again in a heartbeat, but trying to convince my family that another 4x4 is a good idea is a battle I don’t want to fight. Would be nice to have the space, though.

dogisbadob > RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names 06/28/2016 at 19:14

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A 4-cylinder Camry with leather should be attainable in that price range. I’d avoid the ES300 and other transverse V6's because they are impossible to work on.

A better suggestion for a luxury car would be a first-gen RL (96-04) or TL (96-98), as they have longitudinal engines.

There’s also the Infiniti G20, Volvo S40, V40, and V50

The Hyundai Elantra GT also has leather.

RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names > BugEyedBimmer - back in the Saddle Dakota Leather 06/28/2016 at 19:16

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That surprises me to hear about the reliability (not the fun—I’m sold there). I’ll look into them more closely.

Die-Trying > RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names 06/28/2016 at 19:18

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there is a reason you dont kill the first cool car you are given........

The Lurktastic Opponaught > RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names 06/28/2016 at 19:19

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http://bringatrailer.com/2016/06/26/120…

$1200. Put the rest into parts. And bondo. Allllllll the bondo.

lone_liberal > RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names 06/28/2016 at 19:20

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I thought it might be a family thing. If he doesn’t mind the characteristics of the CVT then I’m sure an Alitma would be fine. Find one with the V6 and it might even be quick.

The Lurktastic Opponaught > RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names 06/28/2016 at 19:21

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Oh, and from one reformed lurker to another, welcome. It’s not so scary and occasionally someone brings donuts.

Daily Drives a Dragon - One Last Lap > RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names 06/28/2016 at 19:28

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I second the vote for a 3rd gen 4Runner (96 - 02). The 5VZ is slow, but not dangerously slow (still has plenty of power for merging even uphill with the AC on). If he’s over 6 foot, you might want to shy away from the Limited. The sunroof mechanism and the power seat base take a lot of room and I don’t fit in one (Why I have the SR5). None of them have traction control but they do have ABS and stops (even when the ABS doesn’t want to work) are quick, solid, and drama free. There is always the issue of older Toyotas developing rust and the 3rd gen is no exception. Here’s mine. A 99 SR5 2WD

And in terms of tech.... Um..... It has a CD changer. (3 disk! wow!)

LongbowMkII > RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names 06/28/2016 at 19:45

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My first thought was a 2000-2003 Maxima/i30.

LongbowMkII > The Lurktastic Opponaught 06/28/2016 at 19:49

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Brings doughnuts, does doughnuts. Both are welcome

Chasaboo > BugEyedBimmer - back in the Saddle Dakota Leather 06/28/2016 at 19:51

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I’ve owned a VW. The word reliable never crossed my mind with that car, ever.

The Lurktastic Opponaught > RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names 06/28/2016 at 19:52

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After thinking it through, mkV golf.

I look back on my second vehicle, an ‘87 Jetta, and wish the thing had been a golf.

Steve in Manhattan > RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names 06/28/2016 at 19:52

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You can get a 6M Accord coupe for not too much money, and almost sporty!

The Lurktastic Opponaught > dogisbadob 06/28/2016 at 19:59

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I’ve got almost 50k on my ‘14 Elantra GT, and I’m not even remotely bored of it as a DD. I’ve been investigating local autocross events. 173 claimed hp and a curb weight of ~2800 lbs sounds about right for a beginner’s car.

Chasaboo > RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names 06/28/2016 at 20:01

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Get him an old Volvo. Hang tires off of it tugboat style around its perimeter. Done.

Jordan and the Slowrunner, Boomer Intensifies > Chasaboo 06/28/2016 at 20:03

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Says the guy with the Mazda avatar.

BrianGriffin thinks “reliable” is just a state of mind > RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names 06/28/2016 at 20:05

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05-09 Subaru Legacy (GT if you can find it).

Pros:

About $5k

Slow but not too slow (8ish 0-60)

Sedan

Stupid cheap to fix

AWD

Decent mpgs (about 27 on my NA and I drive fast)

Cons:

You will probably be replacing headgaskets. Ask the previous owner if they’ve been done.

dogisbadob > The Lurktastic Opponaught 06/28/2016 at 20:29

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Well I was talking about the 01-03 GT, but still good though :)

Does yours have the panoramic sunroof?

The Lurktastic Opponaught > dogisbadob 06/28/2016 at 20:36

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Nope. I transport my family’s bikes on my roof rack year round, and I didn’t want to take the risk that one dropped fork would pose to that pane. I saw the future, and the profanity was epic. Besides, the middle package was enough to get leather, heated seats, and an (alleged) suspension upgrade.

OPPOsaurus WRX > RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names 06/28/2016 at 20:36

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once u get used to the CVT its not bad. would probably take that over a normal auto. I find that brodouches drive altimas

BugEyedBimmer - back in the Saddle Dakota Leather > RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names 06/28/2016 at 21:19

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Does he drive manual? If he does, then he’ll love the car. The Auto with the 2.5 is a combination that leaves a lot to be desired.

BugEyedBimmer - back in the Saddle Dakota Leather > Chasaboo 06/28/2016 at 21:20

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Which VW? I specifically said the 2.5s were super reliable. Please tell me you’re not using a Mk4 1.8T to judge the reliability of a Mk5 2.5...

RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names > Daily Drives a Dragon - One Last Lap 06/28/2016 at 21:59

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This seems like a great option! Again, might be tough to push the family toward another off-road capable SUV, but worth a shot. Thanks!

thatsmr > RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names 06/28/2016 at 22:00

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I have a Volvo S70 awd 1999 62k miles one state away for $5k

Daily Drives a Dragon - One Last Lap > RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names 06/28/2016 at 22:01

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Get the 2wd version. And make sure it's on street tires.

RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names > The Lurktastic Opponaught 06/28/2016 at 22:01

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Thanks. I’m already really glad to see how responsive people are being; it’s a good community to be a part of!

RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names > Die-Trying 06/28/2016 at 22:02

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HA. Diabolical. I will be bringing this up.

RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names > BrianGriffin thinks “reliable” is just a state of mind 06/28/2016 at 22:03

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Man, those didn’t even cross my mind... I assumed they’d be pretty rare in good condition. I’ll look into them though, thanks.

Edit: Only because I usually think of people who own Subarus as incredibly loyal (both to the brand and to their particular cars).

Die-Trying > RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names 06/28/2016 at 22:13

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you cant just keep handing the guy nice things, if there is no respect for the sacrifices that are made so that he has wheels. no need to reward destructiveness. get him some BASIC not cool wheels. let him EARN the money to buy what he wants.

RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names > Die-Trying 06/28/2016 at 22:24

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Totally agree. In fairness, the off-roading incident wasn’t entirely his fault, but certainly his responsibility. An important distinction that he needs to learn.

Die-Trying > RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names 06/28/2016 at 22:36

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if you get REAL lucky, he will learn it sooner than later. we all got to learn when to walk away from the peer pressure of all our friends in the car. or you just end up walking.....

best of luck.....

wafflesnfalafel > RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names 06/28/2016 at 22:56

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We just sold my wife’s 05 Alitima - first year of the refresh so you get the sportier grill and better interior. It was the 4cyl auto but had the Special Edition package so you get nice wheels, power driver seat, etc. And honestly, it was no slouch, the 2.5 4cyl is peppy and the auto box is very well sorted for a 4spd. Would be a great first car.

BrianGriffin thinks “reliable” is just a state of mind > RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names 06/29/2016 at 05:46

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You’re in the SW right? (Judging by that pic)...here’s some around Phoenix:

LGT, $5100 http://phoenix.craigslist.org/evl/cto/559416…

LGT, $2800 (02 model)

http://flagstaff.craigslist.org/cto/5632848957…

LGT wagon, $5500 (other than the stupid blacked out tails, this is my favorite)

http://tucson.craigslist.org/cto/5653463193…

Pacer Racer > RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names 06/29/2016 at 09:59

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Well, you can sell a Grand Cherokee almost on price alone-even the nicest ones don’t top $3k anymore. I just wanted to give another 4x4 as an option, I know when I was in high school everybody wanted a 4x4 so they could go mudding on weekends. I thought that your brother might be into that scene, and if he is, he’ll probably want another 4x4 more than anything. It was just a thought.

My only remaining advise is that you avoid Euro stuff like the plague. BMWs and VWs and Jags are fun cars for people who don’t mind working on them, but they are a nightmare for somebody who just wants to get in and drive. I’d rule out the Golf immediately. You’re best bet is gonna be Japanese, or perhaps a Panther platform Ford.

awmaster10 > Dru 11/27/2016 at 09:52

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Id have to agree with you, I loved my 3rd gen....until it had a massive rust hole through the frame.

awmaster10 > RCMF - is hungry for V10 Touaregs and long kinja names 11/27/2016 at 09:55

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I know im a little late, but I think youre right on point with your 2nd gen lexus gs choice. Honestly, unless youre going to turbo it id just get a gs400 rather than gs300. Having a 2jz is cool and all, and I loved my gs300, but close to 300hp and 0-60 right under 6 seconds for a huge boat like that? The thing is a beast. It also beat the same year corvette in braking and slalom. The 1uz is also just as bulletproof as the 2jz.