"Beefchips" (beefchips)
09/27/2020 at 00:10 • Filed to: None
2
57|
"Beefchips" (beefchips)
09/27/2020 at 00:10 • Filed to: None | 2
| 57 |
I’m 37. It’s time. I have a little money (not a bazillion ) and a desire for a grown up car. My daily for the last 4 years is a WRX which is great but rather childish. So I’ve been test driving.
There’s no prerequisite per se, but it’s got to be equal or faster than the subie. It’s got to be nice rather than frat boy (though I want sport not luxury).
Today I drove an 06 cayman S which is right in my price range and on paper exactly what I want. 300 hp, rwd, low, red. But it was refined to the point of sterile. You go fast without realizing it and that’s a fault. I want something that makes me more alive than the WRX.
I also drove a 20 mustang GT and a 10 mustang GT. The ‘Stangs SOUND incredible but again feel kind of like a kindergarten car, like there’s no excitement past the styling and noise.
Last week a BRZ and a GTI both felt slower than I’m used to.
I feel like I’m missing something, perhaps because in a dealer test drive you can’t really push it.
Maybe I’m on the wrong track, like I’m missing what to look for that makes the car POP. Like, do I need a Miata? Miatas are supposed to be touch-tight, intuitive, communicative . Slap on a turbo even.
Maybe a vintage car? I’ll get compliments. Got my eyes on a p1800 now and then . But again, will it pop or just be slow?
Recommendations for an amazing daily at 25k? ??
OmerCarrothers333
> Beefchips
09/27/2020 at 00:58 |
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Are you wanting a coupe? A sedan? A truck?
There’s so many cars out there, maybe you’re being too broad in your search?
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Beefchips
> Beefchips
09/27/2020 at 01:01 |
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PS anyone got recommendations on a medium-old Porsche?
sn4cktimes
> Beefchips
09/27/2020 at 01:02 |
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Older car going fast definitely has more feel to it.
way2blu does a rev update
> Beefchips
09/27/2020 at 01:08 |
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The most engaging car around $25k is probably a lightly used Camaro V6 1LE. It’s a world of difference from a Mustang in terms of handling and driver feedback.
https://oppositelock.kinja.com/the-camaro-v6-1le-is-the-updated-370z-we-deserve-1840587360
It’s more practical than a Miata or Cayman and has a gnarly engine tone too.
TheSixSpeed mentions in the review how these can be had new for deep discounts, and I can confirm that as well. My 2.0T 1LE is the most engaging car of the past decade that I’ve had the chance to daily.
Here’s a review I did of it regarding faster driving too:
https://revupdate.com/2020/07/09/the-2019-camaro-2-0t-1le-is-a-dream-at-autocross/
TL:DR it handles really well and is quite balanced. I recommend a V6 1LE over the turbo-4 if you can find one, but both are quite engaging.
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way2blu does a rev update
> Beefchips
09/27/2020 at 01:14 |
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I’d advise against a 928; the dual ECUs on the V8 engine are a major headache if things go wrong. The 4-cylinder models (924, 944, and 968) are a much better bet. I have a friend who wrenches on and dailies a 944 but won’t touch a 928.
If you want an amazing daily though, something newer like the Camaro I mentioned in my other comment is probably a more reliable and practical choice.
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way2blu does a rev update
> sn4cktimes
09/27/2020 at 01:15 |
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My 130 horsepower MR2 is the fastest- feeling car I’ve ever driven. Can confirm.
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Beefchips
> OmerCarrothers333
09/27/2020 at 01:18 |
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Mmm, could be yes. I want a sports car or tourer. Two seats. I mean 4's fine but 2 is ideal. I’m particularly fond of the W107 M erc for looks. Porsche 928 too . I thing tomorrow I’m going to test drive a fiata 124 abarth.
jminer
> Beefchips
09/27/2020 at 01:19 |
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Not sure if you’re inclined but you might want to think about a motorcycle. They’re a pretty damn cheap way to end up with excellent feel and exhilarating performance
If you’re interested find a weekend motorcycle safety course. It’s a couple hundred bucks and will definitely help you figure out if it’s something you want to do while getting you a solid intro into it safely.
Dr. Zoidberg - RIP Oppo
> Beefchips
09/27/2020 at 01:20 |
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CTS-V coupe? Probably closer to 30k but I think it will definitely feel fast...
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Beefchips
> jminer
09/27/2020 at 01:25 |
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Ah yes indeed! T hats what got me into the need for speed. In college, students couldn’t park a car on campus for love or money but a motorcycle permit was $50. S o I bought a ninja... l ong story short Ive now got a KLR650 and when its not completely on fire here in OR its a great camping bike!
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Beefchips
> way2blu does a rev update
09/27/2020 at 01:27 |
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Never considered a C amaro before TBH, I’ll check it out. I have bee surprised how much I like the mustang, maybe I should explore muscle cars a little more!
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jminer
> Beefchips
09/27/2020 at 01:30 |
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Awesome! My suggestion is useless then, I daily drive a TDI sportwagen which is fun (to me) but not sporty like you’re looking for.
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way2blu does a rev update
> Beefchips
09/27/2020 at 01:33 |
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The muscle segment has some awesome cars available these days. Try the Dodge Challenger too. Very different driving experience (heavy) but they’re super fun too.
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Beefchips
> way2blu does a rev update
09/27/2020 at 01:33 |
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I like that idea for an underrated 2-seater. Z-cars are obviously ridiculous but maybe rx7/8? F iero i feel like will be too much effort for too little performance.
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Beefchips
> Dr. Zoidberg - RIP Oppo
09/27/2020 at 01:35 |
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30k is OK, if on the line. Budget’s elastic :) That’s a good recommendation, I’ll see if I can track one down in Portland for a test drive tomorrow.
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way2blu does a rev update
> Beefchips
09/27/2020 at 01:40 |
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Low-mileage MR2 Turbo models can still be had for less than 25k. 200+ horsepower and availab le with a manual steering rack. It’ll be a more engaging car than the ‘06 Porsche Cayman you mentioned.
https://bringatrailer.com/listing/1991-toyota-mr2-67/
They’ve appreciated in value a lot even since I got mine 3 years ago. Get one while you can.
Mine’s a non-turbo and it’s still the most fun thing I’ve ever driven.
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Beefchips
> way2blu does a rev update
09/27/2020 at 01:40 |
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Yeah, thanks a lot for the camaro idea, hadn’t considered it before! Porsche-wise, looking for 250hp+ and not a PITA... ideas? Love the looks of t he 944 and 968 but imagine they may be painfully slow compared to a moder n WRX. But maybe I’m unfairly pre-judging them? A lso maybe you’ ve got to just live a life that’s period -correc t, including acceleration away from stoplights!
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sn4cktimes
> way2blu does a rev update
09/27/2020 at 01:45 |
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MR2... never lift is what I’ve heard. I’ve also heard that about them feeling fast and very engaging to drive.
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Beefchips
> way2blu does a rev update
09/27/2020 at 01:46 |
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Wouldn’t fit in my garage but thats OK LOL neither will the mustang . And they look incredible. Yeah, wh y not test drive one?
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way2blu does a rev update
> Beefchips
09/27/2020 at 01:46 |
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How comfortable are you with doing your own work on your car and/or budgeting for additional work?
A Porsche 944 Turbo will get pretty close to WRX speeds and be a good deal more engaging, but the real issue with those is maintenance. A clutch replacement can take ~30 labor-hours to complete due to the rear transaxle setup. Parts are hard to find too.
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Beefchips
> jminer
09/27/2020 at 01:48 |
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No way man, always recommend a motorcycle. Soooo much fun!
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way2blu does a rev update
> sn4cktimes
09/27/2020 at 01:49 |
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MR2s punish abrupt user inputs pretty harshly. Lifting from full throttle to no throttle during a turn will upset any car, but an MR2 won’t try to save you.
They definitely feel fast. The engine intake is right outside the driver-side window so you get raw induction note on acceleration too:
!!! UNKNOWN CONTENT TYPE !!!
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Beefchips
> way2blu does a rev update
09/27/2020 at 01:51 |
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I do all my ow work up to now... most challenging has been subaru head gaskets, engine out and all . I reckon I could handle a 944 turbo, just got to get the right tools for the job. The right tools make 100% the difference!
just-a-scratch
> Beefchips
09/27/2020 at 01:53 |
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Read up on the RX-8 engines before getting into that.
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Beefchips
> just-a-scratch
09/27/2020 at 01:54 |
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LOL obv i know nothing about them... will do! Go d those cars look sexy tho don’ t they.
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Beefchips
> way2blu does a rev update
09/27/2020 at 02:02 |
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That link is a bold color , I love it! NGL I don’t drive a ton even in pre-covid times, so a collector car as a daily is just fine. I suppose the main challenge there is to test-drive one... but even a shitty one on CL should give an idea
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Beefchips
> way2blu does a rev update
09/27/2020 at 02:04 |
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Yes t hats also a motorcycle thing which ive got a feel for fortunately. It’ s a good heads up for hard drivi ng though, just got to translate the moto to the car’s pedals
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just-a-scratch
> Beefchips
09/27/2020 at 02:07 |
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But something that gets you excited. Try not to worry what sort of image that has. Grampa cars are great for cruising, childish spots cars are silly fun to drive, muscle cars are impressive with noise and acceleration.
You just have to figure out what rocks your boat.
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way2blu does a rev update
> Beefchips
09/27/2020 at 02:08 |
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Definitely try the 944 then. This review covers a lot of the fun factor:
He’s also on Oppo so you can comment on his posts for some more detailed stories too:
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just-a-scratch
> Beefchips
09/27/2020 at 02:12 |
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The RX-8 engines have a nasty reputation for early failures. I can't say of it's deserved or not, but it's a common enough comment to warrant investigation.
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Beefchips
> way2blu does a rev update
09/27/2020 at 02:14 |
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LOL thanks for the link!
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Beefchips
> just-a-scratch
09/27/2020 at 02:18 |
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Thats a good heads up. Also in light of other recommendations I am curious to know what you think of your new MR2
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Beefchips
> just-a-scratch
09/27/2020 at 02:25 |
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So I’m curious, there are car s that are only avai lable from private parti es e.g. p1800. I never feel bad for wasting a dealership’s time on a test drive when I don’t intend to buy that day. But w hat’s the etiquette on craigslist for test drives of vintage cars if you aren’t sure that’s what you really want?
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Beefchips
> way2blu does a rev update
09/27/2020 at 02:33 |
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A lso can you weigh in on etiquette for test drives for vintage cars? For test drives at a dealer I don’ t really give a F cause they make tons of money anyway. But if its a private seller i’m not sure if it’s OK to ask to test driv e their car to learn what t hat model is like, as opposed to test driving because I want to know if that example is the one for me.
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way2blu does a rev update
> Beefchips
09/27/2020 at 02:57 |
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See if you can rent one on Turo if you just want to get a feel for the car. Way easier than explaining & negotiating that you just want to learn about someone’s car for sale.
Wrong Wheel Drive (41%)
> Beefchips
09/27/2020 at 03:05 |
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It's funny how you say "more alive than the wrx". That's specifically what liked more about my Subaru more than the GTI I test drove prior to buying. I'd definitely recommend checking out Turo for getting a rental of potential options. That allows to better experience the car outside of a test drive. I thought for sure GTI was the car for me. But then spending a week with it just kinda bored me and FWD got old really really fast. My STi never bores me. Sure my miata is more haphazardly fun but they are just two very different things.
phenotyp
> Beefchips
09/27/2020 at 04:37 |
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9-year daily driver of a MKIII MR2, here (also driven, but not owned the other gens): can confirm everything said about them. I’d rather have my MR2 back than have a Boxster/Cayman.
At your price range you’ve got room to really start with a nice one and make it even better pretty painlessly. People always assumed mine was fancy, especially after swapping the stock roof for canvas. All my other modifications were underneath, so it didn’t come across as racery.
Still miss it every day.
ItalianJobR53 - now with added 'MERICA and unreliability
> Beefchips
09/27/2020 at 04:56 |
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25 30k will get you a C6Z06 these days...if you want raw and exhilarating, thr Z06 vettes are the ticket imo. Yes, they aren’t “refined” but thats kinda the point...
My review of my C5 if you wanna glance:
https://oppositelock.kinja.com/review-my-c5-corvette-1844899694
TysMagic
> Beefchips
09/27/2020 at 08:44 |
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Glanced through the comments and no one said 3 series yet (that I saw) so let me toss the 340 in the ring. The turbo i6 is wonderful, it’s refined/comfortable, but it still burbles and pops when you’re ready to give it the beans. Lots of aftermarket support as well. Should be in the price range.
Manny05x
> Beefchips
09/27/2020 at 08:46 |
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Corvette?? Maybe.
GoodIdeaAtTheTime
> Beefchips
09/27/2020 at 09:06 |
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I’d do with a MR2 turbo. One of the most fun cars I have driven. And I’ve driven some proper gems.
How about a C5 Z06? C6's are dipping into the mid 20's/low30's now too.
996 Porsche 911? Hell, for low/mid 30's you could get a turbo!
If you can stretch a bit, Lotus Esprit? you didn’t say anything about reliability, this is a close second to the turbo MR2 in terms of a driver’s car.
Or any number of JDM turbo imports from the 90's. I fix a bunch at work. Any number of Skylines, Fairlady’s, Supra MK3's, Rx7's, Celica GT-Four’s, etc. Be creative, lots of Euro imports to be had as well!
edit: Can’t believe I forgot this one: Porsche 944 Turbo! they are also an investment now, in 10-15 years you will actually profit from it.
Milky
> Beefchips
09/27/2020 at 09:45 |
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I would at the very least test drive a Miata. Apparently the new motor makes it a little more fun and you can definitely get a 1-2 year old car in any trim you like for your price.
krustywantout
> jminer
09/27/2020 at 09:53 |
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This. I bought a used 2007 M6 convertible 6 speed after I sold my motorcycle (2001 BMW 1100RT). I had it for about 3 years before I got bored because the speed was so easy and refined. I also also didn’t care for the expenses or looks associated with owning the car. I would keep the WRX and look for a motorcycle. Something fast and upright like a Kawasaki Ninja 1000, Honda CB1000, Ducati Scrambler, or an Indian FTR1200.
You will never get that sensation of speed and engagement from a car like you get from a motorcycle. Plus keeping the WRX will keep your expenses down for maintenance and you still have a fast car. And living with an engaging car will get old. I think you already have the best livable fast car there is.
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just-a-scratch
> Beefchips
09/27/2020 at 10:25 |
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Obviously private sellers are more sensitive of their time and letting people do test drives. You might need to do a test drive anyway.
I think it’s most important to respect the seller’s time and effort. Make clear plans and follow through.
AMGtech - now with more recalls!
> Beefchips
09/27/2020 at 10:44 |
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Moto was also going to be my suggestion. If a Cayman feels too refined then nothing is going to be fast enough and feel adult enough. Fast and adult things are all going to feel at least that sterile, until you stay getting much more expensive. I would put camaros and challengers and the like in with the mustangs as far as feeling childish. You go much more than 10-15 years older and handling gets markedly worse and engines less power-efficient by quite a bit.
KLR is moped- slow. Great for what it is, but it’ll never scratch that speed itch. Go for an upright sport tourer with 1000+cc’s if you want more riding months beyond summer.
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AMGtech - now with more recalls!
> Beefchips
09/27/2020 at 10:53 |
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I’ll actually second the 944. I'm partial to 944 S2's. Fantastic car.
Neil drives a beetle and a fancy beetle
> Beefchips
09/27/2020 at 11:18 |
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I think an older car could scratch your it h for going fast and feeling it. I was surprised by your Cayman feedback. Based on everything you said it seems like it should line up.
I’d be inclined to suggest a 1le Camaro; or a drop top of some kind.
Jarrett - [BRZ Boi]
> Beefchips
09/27/2020 at 11:40 |
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If you haven’t tried yet, definitely try a new Miata (with the soft-top/LSD for maximum experience). It will feel quicker than the BRZ that you would have tried in normal driving.
DasWauto
> Beefchips
09/27/2020 at 12:37 |
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For $25k, you’re probably not going to find something that’s as fast or faster than the WRX, similarly involving, while also being more refined/less boy-racer, especially not if you’re looking at new or nearly-new. The WRX is a raw/engaging car in a way that is mostly extinct in the automotive industry these days; you’re going to have a hard time finding what you’re looking for.
I’m on the same position (looking to replace my ‘17 WRX that I’ve had for almost 4 years) and I think what I’m going to have to do is either go full-retard and buy an STI, or buy something completely different so that I don’t always measure/compare it against the Subie.
I’m leaning toward a truck (Colorado ZR2 probably, maybe a Tacoma) because I have my 128i to be the sporty car that I can autocross and semi-daily-drive in the non-winter months. I’m having trouble giving up the WRX’s loose surface driving experience though because, short of an STI, those dynamics are unmatched at any price. As it is, I’m in limbo and casually awaiting a few debuts (Corolla GRMN, new WRX/STI, new Nissan Frontier).
Besides a Miata, in which you give up a fair bit of speed, one suggestion I might have is a BMW 2 series. I thought about going for a 228i/230i xdrive (awd/4wd required) to replace my WRX but I think that would be somewhat redundant given the other car in my stable. If RWD is ok for you the 235i/240i might be available in-warranty at your price range. You may get better value out of the 4 cylinder though, especially if the warranty matters, and you can get a BMW performance parts LSD to make it more entertaining and predictable on the limit of grip.
Alternatively, a C5/C6 ‘Vette Will hit your criteria (minus refinement) , if you can deal with the lack of practicality and of-the-era-GM interiors. For their price you probably can’t get anything faster.
Moltenburn
> Beefchips
09/27/2020 at 12:38 |
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Try and find a on the lot 2019 Miata n ew. Say a club or GT-s convertible the ones that come with LSD. you don’t want a RF. They are not turbo so you will have to come to terms with that. But for all out awesome sports car driving. Can’ t be touched. I daily drove my 2018 even in the winter and it was the most rewarding drive I have had. I have o wned 30 plus vehicles in the last 25 years.
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Beefchips
> Neil drives a beetle and a fancy beetle
09/27/2020 at 13:22 |
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Yeah, on paper the cayman seems perfect , right? You’re not alone in the camaro suggestion, seems like I’m going to have to check one out.
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Beefchips
> just-a-scratch
09/27/2020 at 13:24 |
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thanks, yeah, I have bought plenty of cars and bikes on CL but only ones that are already known quantities, so the test drive is really just to see if the one on offer is mechanically sound.
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Beefchips
> way2blu does a rev update
09/27/2020 at 13:25 |
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Oh, great idea!
My bird IS the word
> Beefchips
09/27/2020 at 20:19 |
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If a wrx isn't doing it for you and a mustang isn't the answer, I'm not sure you are going to scratch that itch for 25k. Next big jump is a first gen viper at 35k IMO
Idiot In The Garage Needs A New CGI Job...
> Beefchips
09/27/2020 at 22:07 |
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Used Hyundai Veloster N.
I test drove one recently and it was a hoot. It’s not the power of t he ‘ 20 Mustang I recently drove, but used ones are around $25k...
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Beefchips
> Idiot In The Garage Needs A New CGI Job...
09/27/2020 at 22:11 |
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I am seriously considering this. I drove a base veloster w paddle shifters and super dug it. What could go wrong w a turbo and a stick??
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Idiot In The Garage Needs A New CGI Job...
> Beefchips
09/27/2020 at 22:21 |
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If I had n’t been COVID19'd out of a job, I seriously think I would have gotten it. Interior is... f ine. B ut it’s a $ 25- 30k hot hatch & the b lue seatbelts & crackle exhaust make up for it. I kinda like that it’s not the obvious choice too.