Oppo, help me pick a daily driver

"Wrong Wheel Drive (41%)" (rduncan5678) 08/17/2017 at 13:42 • Filed to: None

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Post facelift 2008 (so 2008.5) MS3 is my top choice today

My Miata is soon to be crossing over 200k miles, I’m planning to be living in a new place (Los Angeles), and I will have a traffic free 30-40 mile commute (one way). So I am definitely thinking about picking up another vehicle to use as a daily driver. 100% keeping my Miata and continuing to modify it and also will still often drive it to work. But having a second car will be very nice to have. It also would be fun to try something different for a bit while still having the Miata to cruise around and autocross with. Anyways, I have come up with a list of my requirements and some cars I have already been looking into. These fall inside my budget in varying conditions but I also am curious for more suggestions that I might like. My “Used model options” are roughly ordered from most to least preference. I’d rank an Integra GSR higher but I am so worried of it being stolen.

I really want a red car for some reason, but this is not a requirement. Would just go well with my blue Miata.

Main use will be driving on the highway to and from work as well as going up to ski mountains (I’ll get a set of M+S all seasons and chains for the winter time).

Absolute Requirements / Must Have

Manual Transmission

Roof (no convertible - thats what my Miata is for)

Less than 200k miles

$12k or less in cash (or as a max downpayment)

Air conditioning

Any color but gray/silver

Preferred Requirements

No loans

Sub $8k final cost

Less than 150k miles

Hatchback or Coupe

Ability to mount a luggage roof rack or easily fit 2 sets of skis and a passenger inside

Manageable repair costs and easy to work on myself

Small size vehicle

Somewhat fast (just needs to be faster than my Miata lol)

DO NOT care about

Gas Mileage

Usable Back seat

Comfort

Used Model Options

2007-2009 Mazda Mazdaspeed 3

2002-2003, 2004-2005, 2006-2007 Subaru WRX (hatch/wagon)

2002-2003, 2004-2005, 2006-2007 Subaru WRX (sedan)

2001-2005 Honda Civic Si (hatch)

2006-2011 Honda Civic Si (coupe)

2002-2006 Acura RSX-Type S

1994-2001 Acura Integra GSR (coupe)

1991-2000 Lexus SC300

1998-2005 Lexus IS300

New Model Options

Ford Focus ST

Ford Fiesta ST

Other things to Consider

FRS/BRZ

Mustang (Ecoboost or 5.0)

Used FoST/FiST

Cayman

MR2

E46 M3, E39 M5

SO much class!

I’ve got some time still until I move so I am not seriously considering options yet. Also, I will gladly daily my Miata indefinitely anyways so I will take some time to save up. Might be worth it to save up for that M5 I always wanted.

Not going away no matter what!

Keep in mind, I consider my Miata to be quite practical in terms of storage capacity. And I thought the FRS was a minivan in terms of how much space inside I had. So I definitely dont need something SUPER practical. I hope to keep the car for a few years with minimal mods.

Nisman > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 13:46

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Is anything really traffic free in LA?

X37.9XXS > Nisman 08/17/2017 at 13:48

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Just what I was thinking

random001 > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 13:50

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ABARTH!

Smallbear wants a modern Syclone, local Maple Leafs spammer > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 13:51

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SCREW YOUR REQUIREMENTS YOU KNOW YOU WANT IT

RiceRocketeer Extraordinaire > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 13:51

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Where exactly in LA is this traffic free commute?

Would vote Civic Si - that K24 is bombproof and Civic parts are everywhere

Bytemite > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 13:52

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Be like me: blue miata, red Prelude type SH.

Looking through your list, I saw you had no Prelude in there. It’s so good and so cheap and will definitely be more fun than the other hondas you have on that list. Plus the GSR will get stolen.

benjrblant > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 13:52

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Another Miata.

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > Nisman 08/17/2017 at 13:53

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It’s all relative haha. But I will be in the outskirts of the San Fernando Valley and commuting against traffic out to the coast. So in terms of “LA traffic” it will be nearly nonexistant. Plus I will be working early hours so its really only the evening drive home where shit could go wrong. But I’ve got alternative routes that are more fun anyways (through the mountains) when I have some time.

Carsbikesscooters > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 13:54

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In LA traffic, you won’t be going super fast, so you want something with lots of low range power. This option might not sound exciting, but if you have a Miata for weekends, it’ll be plenty. The car is a Volkswagen Golf 1.8t Wolfsburg edition, brand new, it comes loaded with some great features for the price, is peppy enough to get out of its own way and be quick around town (0-60 in 6.7 seconds) and handles really well. LA roads aren’t great, and it soaks up bumps really nicely, it’s easy to find one with a manual, and silk blue looks stunning on one.

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > Bytemite 08/17/2017 at 13:55

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Oh yeah, I should definitely add that to the list. Definitely gotta test drive one at least. Good point!

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > Smallbear wants a modern Syclone, local Maple Leafs spammer 08/17/2017 at 13:55

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God damn I definitely have to add NO TRUCKS to the DO NOT WANT list haha.

SnapUndersteer, Italian Spiderman > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 13:56

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Get a 06-11 Civic Si. Do it

Textured Soy Protein > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 13:56

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Fist off, some general thoughts:

You already have a rwd toy car, I wouldn’t get a larger rwd toy.

I know you say you don’t care about comfort, but trust me, as someone who has had 2 cars, it’s lovely to have one that’s at least somewhat comfy.

The M+S stamp is meaningless. Basically every all-season has an M+S stamp on it. The design just has to be intended to be decent in snow but there’s not any kind of test the tire needs to pass to get the M+S stamp. If you’re going to buy a separate set of winter wheels/tires for going up ski hills, get winter tires.

If you’re worried about theft in LA then cross off every Honda/Acura on your list.

Specific thoughts:

The MS3 will rust and that motor has fueling issues (I had an MS6).

10+ year old M BMWs will have significant maintenance costs.

The WRX wagon/hatch is the obvious skidouchebro choice, but certainly a valid choice.

The FiST is too much of a roller skate of a car and not different enough from the Miata IMHO.

Final choices:

FoST - newest, comfiest option here. Fwd + open diff = mediocre winter traction

WRX wagon/hatch - yes it’s the obvious skidouchebro choice but they are for a reason

Civic Si sedan - if you can get past the thought of it being stolen, the coupe and sedan drive identically, the sedan is more useful and under the radar. It has an LSD which is good for handling in general and going up ski hills in particular.

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > benjrblant 08/17/2017 at 13:56

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I would get an FRS if I wanted another Miata lol. It definitely is something I’ve thought about. They are kind of way too similar though. But I still want one.

Smallbear wants a modern Syclone, local Maple Leafs spammer > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 13:57

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Your feelings betray you

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > RiceRocketeer Extraordinaire 08/17/2017 at 13:57

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So I’m not really in LA and I am driving away from it to begin with. Sure I will find traffic still but not “LA traffic”.

DAWRX - The Herb Strikes Back > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 14:01

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I didn’t see a GTi on your list. You should definitely think about getting one of those.

Textured Soy Protein > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 14:02

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Also in my other post I mentioned the Civic Si sedan & coupe have an LSD but the EP3 Si hatch does not have an LSD. It’s basically a taller base model RSX with cloth seats and a shifter on the dash.

Bytemite > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 14:02

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Please do, it will sell itself to you on the first drive. I can’t stop having fun in this thing and I drive a fuckin Miata so I have high standards for what is considered fun.

In the corners this thing is so damn fun. Straights? Oh man when that VTEC kicks in at 5250...I can’t stop myself from giggling like a little boy. Even cruising and being sensible is so fun in this car.

Just watch the reviews of the Prelude on youtube. Check out my post about it too. It’s better than any of those cars on your list. For 3 grand I’m having the fun driving experience other people pay 50k for and still don’t get.

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > Textured Soy Protein 08/17/2017 at 14:04

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I cant stand how terrible the Civic Si sedan looks haha. Where I will be living, I’m not super concerned about it being stolen. But I would be slightly with an early 90s Civic or Integra. Good point about wanting something different, I agree. The “other” stuff is more so for the reasons you listed why I wouldnt really get one.

As for the snow/ski requirements, that really is not a high priority. And yeah I know snow tires but if its 90 degrees at home and 20 degrees and snowing on the mountain, my tires will disintegrate before I get there! The Subaru is still a high option since I’ve always liked the WRX but high prices and maintenance issues have deterred me slightly.

Agreed on the FOST though, but idk if I want to stretch my budget that far.

punkgoose17 > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 14:04

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MasterMario - Keeper of the V8s > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 14:04

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DO NOT WANT: NO TRUCKS...so you want trucks?

Berang > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 14:05

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Justy 4x4

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > Bytemite 08/17/2017 at 14:05

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Hmm youve got a point for sure. I kind of want something faster but its certainly worth considering since I love how they look and “faster” is subjective anyways.

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > Smallbear wants a modern Syclone, local Maple Leafs spammer 08/17/2017 at 14:07

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This is the only truck I could do:

Although I also like Tacos and Rangers but I would never want to daily one. Someday when I have space to own more vehicles, it would be nice to have a small truck.

Schaef_Camaero Z/28 > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 14:08

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You may be able to find a cheaper / nicer for the price Saabaru instead of a WRX. It would handle your ski trips with ease with snow tires and awd & it makes for a pretty decent daily driver.

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > punkgoose17 08/17/2017 at 14:10

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SAABARU! I will be looking for these while shopping WRX, but they are harder to come by.

Stapleface > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 14:11

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This might sound crazy, but you might want to give the Ford Probe a chance. I know, I know, it’s older than you were looking, but if there’s anywhere you’re going to find a low mile rust free car, it seems like it’s on the west coast.

The Probe really is a decent handling car, and it’s pretty comfy on long trips. Not to mention, I think the styling is still damn good looking, even 23+ years after it was released.

After all, it’s just a Mazda underneath.

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > DAWRX - The Herb Strikes Back 08/17/2017 at 14:11

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The problem is I’m worried it will be too boring. I HATE cars that feel comfortable and refined. I like the looks of a GTI but I would have to HEAVILY modify it before I started enjoying it. Idk, I definitely should give it a shot at least. Theres a few on Turo so I might rent one for a few days.

awmaster10 > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 14:11

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SC300. Get the most absurdly clean one you can find and itll still be under $10k and dead reliable. Maybe consider an mr2 as well but that is a little close to your miata. MS3 may be a reliability nightmare and they are all rusting out now. Civic SI, boring. WRX you have to sacrifice build quality for the drivetrain.

e39 and 5.0 mustang I support as well.

Edit, saw you were looking at g35/37 coupes. Get a g37 coupe and put exhaust on it. Sounds like a jag f type v6 and they are a ton of car for the money. Decent interior, under $15k (Maybe? If not, the g35 is great too), and great sound and handling. Reliable too.

arl > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 14:11

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Base GTI with a stick?

Bytemite > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 14:12

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It will feel faster than any of the cars in your used car list. H22 VTEC hits hardest. and it sounds like a VR6 when it does.

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > random001 08/17/2017 at 14:12

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Fix It Again Tony. I love how they sound and look but its probably even less practical than my Miata. Plus the reliability and cost factor. I definitely want that sound though.

notsomethingstructural > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 14:13

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I’ll give you another reason not to get a GSR. If that thing gets a scratch on it you will be in tears.

I’ve driven the Type-S and with a good set of tires it handles well. That said, I didn’t find the fit and finish that awe inspiring, and I thought you had to stomp on it fairly hard to get it to go fast. The base RSX is a joke.

I’ve also driven the Mazdaspeed 3 on a few occasions and had a blast. I dunno, I think Mazda’s interiors and material selection from like 02-09 was always top notch. This will far and away be the most value you get of this list. From what I remember, the hydraulic timing chain actuators run into issues a lot, but you can check that with a small screwdriver through the oil fill. If the tensioner is dead, I believe the chain will have slack when the car is cold, as I recall. Also, triple check the CV and boots, because (again, as I recall) Mazda offers rebuild kits for one side, and a new assembly is about $350. DO NOT use non-MS3 axles, as people with chineseium have sheared them right in half.

I think the IS300 is gorgeous but much like the RSX didn’t come away with much on the drive. Dunno, I find RWD sedans bloated and spongy compared to FWD. This doesn’t make sense, but it could be an issue of expectations.

I would lean toward the MS3 of those options, which will absolutely destroy the Civic SI’s. That thing pulls hard in 3rd. You may also want to consider a late-model RX-8, which did not have engine problems, and (while more expensive than early-model) are still fairly affordable. Early RX-8's aren’t as bad as their rep, but you can’t buy them from someone who bragged about using full synthetic every 5k miles on the dot or a kid with a sideways baseball cap, so you gotta take your time finding the right one.

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > Schaef_Camaero Z/28 08/17/2017 at 14:14

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Definitely going to look, but idk how rare they are. Ski trips will mostly be flown to but its nice to be able to drive up to Mammoth on occassion since its sub 6 hours away by car.

Bytemite > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 14:16

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Drove a GTI. Definitely nowhere near as fun as my Veloster was. Don’t even bother.

random001 > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 14:17

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Mine’s been ok. I’ve put like 4k on it, it’s at 52k miles now, no issues. was a $31k car, got it for $11k with 48k miles. Get one with a warranty, and enjoy the glorious noise!

Actually, they are quite practical. I’m like 6'4" and have lots of room. I did get the ‘Vert, though.

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > awmaster10 08/17/2017 at 14:19

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The issue with the SC300 is how impossible a manual is to find in acceptable condition. I am not interested in embarking on a manual swap for a daily driver lol.

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > Stapleface 08/17/2017 at 14:21

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Age is 100% not an issue. Those are just the cars I know I would like. The only concern with older stuff is that it is likely to actually be slower than my Miata. The issue I have with Probes is that they look way faster than they are. If only there was an SVT version or something. Im sure people have done crazy swaps with these.

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > Textured Soy Protein 08/17/2017 at 14:22

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Good point, LSD is how I have always made it through snow and ice and crap in my Miata. Would certainly apply to other vehicles as well. Plus its just always more fun with that.

LongbowMkII > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 14:23

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it has an optional mazda V6, which they used in the contour SVT

DucST3-Red-1Liter-Standing-By > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 14:25

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I hate to be a downer, but even living 2 hours east of LA, I got rid of my focus svt because it was a 6 speed. LA traffic and a clutch don’t mix well, I would recommend an auto (anti-christ I know)

DAWRX - The Herb Strikes Back > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 14:26

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Its boring and refined when it needs to be. But trust me, its a giggle-pot when you flog it. Its on par with a focus ST but is more practical, plus the GTI can be had with a mechanical LSD. And the DCT hype is real. The DCT is actually just as fun as a manual, with the added benefit of being even more convenient for DD duties. And honestly man sometimes you just want to relax when commuting.

If I ever got to a breaking point with my WRX (unlikely as I’m a glutton for punishment) I’d go straight to a GTI. But thats the thing, you gotta go with what you like. Even after a frustrating day at work, being beat up my suspension’s disagreements with crumbling infrastructure, lots of road noise, fighting my vague-ass clutch, and changing gears way too much because of strange gearing; its all worth it. My car is not that great of a DD, but I love it. So thats my only advice. Buy what you love.

Textured Soy Protein > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 14:27

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The 2009 facelift on the Si sedan improved things somewhat by adding a couple speed holes to the bumper and blacked out the grille. It’s not a huge change but I like the improvement.

The coupe started out with speed holes already so the refresh basically just added fog lights and changed up the grille & speed holes.

I prefer the pre-facelift wheels.

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > DAWRX - The Herb Strikes Back 08/17/2017 at 14:34

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Instructions unclear, bought a second Miata lol.

But yeah I hear you. I definitely still want a wrx or ms3. But I’d be stupid to not at least try a gti. There’s a few on Turo so it would be easy to try for a bit anyways.

awmaster10 > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 14:34

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https://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale/vehicledetails.xhtml?listingId=445221331&zip=76262&referrer=%2Fcars-for-sale%2Fsearchresults.xhtml%3Fzip%3D76262%26startYear%3D1981%26sortBy%3DderivedpriceDESC%26incremental%3Dall%26firstRecord%3D0%26endYear%3D2018%26modelCodeList%3DSC300%26makeCodeList%3DLEXUS%26searchRadius%3D0%26transmissionCodes%3DMAN&startYear=1981&numRecords=25&firstRecord=0&endYear=2018&modelCodeList=SC300&makeCodeList=LEXUS&searchRadius=0&makeCode1=LEXUS&modelCode1=SC300

Road trip time! The manual tax for these things is crazy though. Similar condition auto goes for $5k

rockingthe2 > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 14:34

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Obviously, you need the MR2. I say gen4 swap for reliability. You should be able to buy one from Prime Performance in NJ, and shipped to you in your budget.

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > random001 08/17/2017 at 14:35

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Hmm, certainly an option consider then

TheD0k_2many toys 2little time > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 14:36

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a new Miata

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > notsomethingstructural 08/17/2017 at 14:38

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I feel like an RX8 is a bad idea lol. But rotary would be quite fun. I suppose third gens are doable but idk, engine failures are the last thing I want to deal with.

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > DucST3-Red-1Liter-Standing-By 08/17/2017 at 14:40

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I wont get an auto unless I loose a leg or something. Just not an option. I’ve driven in LA traffic with a few different manuals. Yeah it sucked but it was worth it. It’s just like video games, I’m only enjoying the game if it’s the hardest possible difficulty. Success through adversity and all that.

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > rockingthe2 08/17/2017 at 14:41

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Lol I’m moving from NJ. I’m not gonna buy a car here and ship it West. Definitely looking to find a West coast car. My Miata is enough of a rust bucket already, I don’t need another. That’s already gonna take a lot of restoration work..

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > TheD0k_2many toys 2little time 08/17/2017 at 14:42

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But then I wouldn’t want my current Miata anymore and have the same problem again lol.

DAWRX - The Herb Strikes Back > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 14:44

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A buddy of mine has a hood scoop MS3 that he planning on trading for a new Forester XT (he wants to be comfy, boooooo). Torque steer is a real thing, and I think it has a mechanical LSD. They have stout motors if you’re not an idiot, but to echo what AtlasM said, invest in a high pressure fuel pump, and don’t floor it in higher gears. But yeah, stupid fun and very very good value.

I haven’t driven a WRX of the vintage you’re looking for, but its a give its gonna be good. Just prepare to be shocked by the interior quality lol

Actually one more to add to your list...Legacy GT; wagon or sedan. they have better interiors than the WRX, they’re more roomy, and from what I understand, the suspension is STi components, and the engine is a detuned STi engine rather than a WRX transplant, but don’t quote me on that.

CobraJoe > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 14:45

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Let me throw in an oddball suggestion: Volvo C30.

Hatchback, tons of style, 227 to 250hp, manual available, pretty much a focus, so easy to work on, and they’re pretty darn cheap now. There’s a 2011 R-type well optioned and polestar tuned with under 100k miles for $10k on my local clist now.

I had a slightly older non-turbo V50 (another great option, but the turbo/manual version is hard to find), and it was extremely solid, reliable, and easy to work on (mostly just replaced wear parts).

EDIT: Just saw in a different replay that you’re not that interested in “comfy and refined”. While the V50 I had was no cadillac, it was a bit too tame for my tastes. Maybe the turbo/manual/fwd C30 would be ore fun.

DucST3-Red-1Liter-Standing-By > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 14:46

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Well I applaud your stubbornness! I found this traffic in particular to be a soul sucking experience. I keep the bike for the fun driving, and DD the car with AC, protection and comfort

rockingthe2 > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 14:49

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I feel you on that, mine is thankfully rust free. I still say gen4 swapped MR2 though. Super fun. Spins tires through third with a boost controller. Maybe not super nice tires, but tires nontheless .

jonny11quest > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 14:54

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128i. Or a 135i if you want more power and less reliability, but the N52 in the 128i is solid and faster than the Miata.

TheTurbochargedSquirrel > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 15:00

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Obligatory comment telling you that I love my Mini and think you should try one. Just avoid 07-10 S models, the N14 is a disaster.

HFV has no HFV. But somehow has 2 motorcycles > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 15:00

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2003 Beetle TDI

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > DAWRX - The Herb Strikes Back 08/17/2017 at 15:06

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Yup, Legacy GT is on the list just forgot to write it down. I actually would HIGHLY prefer to find one of those intead of the WRX. Just much more of a sleeper for essentially the same thing. They are harder to find though.

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > awmaster10 08/17/2017 at 15:07

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Haha I should just route through Texas on the way to LA then. And then just tow my Miata with the SC300 the rest of the way. 2 birds with one stone!

There are a few on craigslist in LA that I might check out. I just dont have high hopes of them being nice enough. Im fine with riced out ones if enough of it is reversible or quality stuff used.

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > DucST3-Red-1Liter-Standing-By 08/17/2017 at 15:11

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Oh yeah, i would agree if I had to commute through orange county or anywhere East of where I am really. I will be heading West from Woodland Hills in the morning so I am just outside the traffic nightmare. Might still hit traffic coming home but I can hop off the 101 and take various surface streets easily enough at that point.

AC and some comfort are requirements though. Hence why i dont want to be forced to daily the Miata only. Racing bucket seat, unreliable AC, and coilovers dont make for good traffic duty. Manual just makes my leg stronger lol.

Shift24 > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 15:12

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One car you could look into is a the last gen GTO. Great powertrain, decent reliability, plentiful aftermarket, around the $10K mark, and original Top Gear approved ( cant find video but good enough).

Also just a warning as an e39 owner, its not always the powertrain you are to worrying about. But to be honest I still wouldnt have bought anything else.

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > CobraJoe 08/17/2017 at 15:15

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Hmm, definitely will write down the C30 R-type. I didnt know they ran that low. I figured they would be more in the $15k range with highish mileage. Good suggestion to check into!

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > Shift24 08/17/2017 at 15:17

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Oh yeah theres lots of little things about M5s to worry about. I would rather have my own garage and a third car before doing an E39, but Im also worried that if I wait forever they will start appreciating or all be worn out.

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > TheTurbochargedSquirrel 08/17/2017 at 15:18

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Oh yeah good point. I loved the ‘12 Mini Cooper S that I rented. It leaked a ton of oil so it was a true Mini ownership experience from a rental lol. But yeah I’d think about a well maintained one for sure. The God damn run flat tires though would need to go ASAP!

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > jonny11quest 08/17/2017 at 15:21

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These can fit in my budget? 1 series is probably the only non-performance variant BMW that I actually like. But I imagine an older 3 series could be just as fun and about the same size. I dont care much for the brand but thats not a bad idea.

TheTurbochargedSquirrel > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 15:23

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I wish companies would stop sticking run flats on performance cars. Find a well maintained example and have your mechanic give it a good look over and enjoy.

jonny11quest > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 15:25

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I bought my 2010 328i for 10k and there were plenty for less. If I didn’t care about backseats I would’ve been all over a 128i. Last N/A straight six from BMW in the lightest package available. Sticks are hard to find, but that’s typical for most cars that had both options.

awmaster10 > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 15:29

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I know you want a coupe but there are more manual is300s than sc300s and they are usually in better condition.

notsomethingstructural > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 15:29

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If you get one that’s well documented and clearly owned by an enthusiast you’ll be fine. The late models could handle a little more neglect but you shouldn’t be first in line for a neglected one anyways. They’re amazing cars to drive and if you get a GT its a really nice and comfortable ride. You don’t realize what you were missing. And you don’t beat on rotaries that’s considered preventative maintenance. Wring it all the way out baby.

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > TheTurbochargedSquirrel 08/17/2017 at 15:31

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It was such a bad balance of terrible tires and lots of power. I drove it around in San Francisco. I obliterated the front tires in a burnout at like every hill start lol. Even stalled it a couple times just because the tires were slipping and it confused me. It still had gobs of grip once moving though which I attributed to the chassis and weight.

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > jonny11quest 08/17/2017 at 15:32

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Good point, solid option then. Will add it to the ever growing list!

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > HFV has no HFV. But somehow has 2 motorcycles 08/17/2017 at 15:33

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I think I’d choose walking to work instead

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > arl 08/17/2017 at 15:34

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Im convinced to try one out. But I think its a bit boring generally. Ive seen some modded ones I really liked though. They can be fast as hell for very little investment.

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > notsomethingstructural 08/17/2017 at 15:37

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Hmm, I wonder how much a later one would stretch my budget. Definitely worth considering.

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > awmaster10 08/17/2017 at 15:37

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Yep, thats why its on the list. Definitely will be looking at those.

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > Carsbikesscooters 08/17/2017 at 15:41

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If I was going VW it would definitely have to be GTI. I prefer the hatch and the tune-ability and the at least some semblance of a fun car. Plus I am trying to avoid new as much as possible.

TheTurbochargedSquirrel > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 15:42

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If the R56 is like my R50 it will be very picky about tires. I had a set of rubbish snow tires on mine and it would understeer at parking lot speeds. Put a decent set of tires on it and it might as well be on rails. The Mini is one of the best FWD platforms.

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > SnapUndersteer, Italian Spiderman 08/17/2017 at 15:45

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I’m worried it will be too boring, like the GTI. I mean its a daily so maybe thats not a bad thing. But I know the regular civic (non SI) version just feels way too slow. Interior is nice though at least. I have yet to try an SI and the ones I see at autox are always quite fast though. So its definitely one I want to check out.

notsomethingstructural > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 15:56

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Shouldn’t be a stretch at all . Just an availability thing.

RPM esq. > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 16:02

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Wait, what’s your price range here? $12k cash total and a $12k down payment with a loan is a very different thing.

HFV has no HFV. But somehow has 2 motorcycles > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 16:07

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But boost and choo turbo sounds

Carsbikesscooters > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 16:16

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The Golf is plenty fun, I must say. It can hold its own in corners, as far as compacts, it’s near The top. I understand the want for a GTI, and mk6 gti would be nice.

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > RPM esq. 08/17/2017 at 16:29

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I mean I REALLY dont want a loan. I have enough student loans as it is. I could technically afford it and I would be approved for a decent rate, so I have to at least think about it. My real budget is like $6-10k but I can easily save enough to stretch that out to 12k in a few months. Theoretically that would be the max to put on a down payment, but I would want to be at 25% or greater equity with a 36-48 month loan max. I dont want payments though so Im not really asking for new stuff suggestions right now.

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > HFV has no HFV. But somehow has 2 motorcycles 08/17/2017 at 16:33

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Yeah but why a Beetle? I like the idea of a diesel, they run forever. But a new beetle just makes me angry.

AfromanGTO > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 16:38

2

I’ll just suggest this.

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > AfromanGTO 08/17/2017 at 16:41

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Idk if I could do muscle cars. I feel like I have to consider a whole lot more options if I went down that route. I also know nothing about GTOs or Pointiac or anything American really haha.

RPM esq. > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 17:30

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I see. For some of these you could sort of split the difference at $6-8k down and a relatively small loan, like $10-12k. That would buy you a lot of the nicer stuff on this list, like a solid E46 M3 or E39 M5, a Cayman, or a gently used BRZ. The only problem with that is it might be hard to find a bank willing to finance something older than 6-8 years at a reasonable rate. And the M3 and M5 are not cheap to maintain or repair. I can’t speak to the Cayman but I’m guessing the same is true there.

HFV has no HFV. But somehow has 2 motorcycles > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 17:54

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Idk they make me smile. And I like the big dash.

Bytemite > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 18:05

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Also since you have a bigger budget than me, why not go for a 350Z. Since we own Miatas, our 2nd car daily driver can be a different kind of fun that scratches an itch. I really had a bad itch for VTEC and torque vectoring diffs so that’s what I got. The 350Z would still be a RWD sports car, but give you that GT performance and more lazy cruising and stomping on the gas pedal kind of fun. Plus, the Z has extensive aluminum usage all over the suspension and subframe and hood. Pretty impressive how it manages to weigh so much still but it has the power to push it around that’s for sure.

AfromanGTO > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 18:41

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You misspelled Australian there. It isn’t really a muscle car. It is a GT car. It is actually a Holden Monaro but marketed as a Ponitac.

Jordan and the Slowrunner, Boomer Intensifies > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 18:51

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FiST

FiST

FiST

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > Bytemite 08/17/2017 at 18:54

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Yup I rented a 370z and it was quite fun. But if I was gonna go that route, I would totally save up and spring for a Cayman. I loved that one I rented even more.

Bytemite > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 19:03

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Okay...dang you’re really raising your budget now. We’re talking $15k sports car here. 350Z can be had in good condition for less than $7-8k.

RacinBob > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 20:27

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Link ‘07 117k $7990 Burbank

Shift24 > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 08/17/2017 at 23:06

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Trust me that’s a very good idea. Lucky I have 2 back up cars which have come in handy when something happens on my 540i Msport. There are random little things that go wrong and weak points across e39s. Cheap plastic, weak coolant components, and German over-engineering. But like I said would buy mine again without a second thought.

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > Bytemite 08/17/2017 at 23:08

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Yeah that’s true, budget probably should matter lol. I just didn’t find the 370z to be special enough I guess. Idk how practical anything like that would be. For some reason I think a nice hot hatch or coupe would be a better complement to a miata. But yeah I definitely will look at them.

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > RacinBob 08/17/2017 at 23:10

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Yeah but sedan and grey. I just don’t like either of those things, especially on a Civic. Sure flying under the radar isn’t a bad thing but a brighter colored coupe would just make me so happy.