"NervesOfThrill" (adrenalingus)
10/25/2014 at 09:43 • Filed to: None
1
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"NervesOfThrill" (adrenalingus)
10/25/2014 at 09:43 • Filed to: None | 1
| 11 |
I went on one last round of test drives to finalize my thoughts on each car and I'm glad I did as my perceptions changed on each of them from the previous test drives. I've made my decision.
2010 E90 BMW M3: Drove a black on black '11 Coupe this time and it was a very different experience. The interior looked much better in the black/black color scheme and this car was in better shape throughout. Loved it. Got to test drive it alone and found the upper end of the tach more this time unleashing more of the car's potential. Now I see what everyone was talking about and how I just didn't get there last time. Incredible driver's car.
2011 Cadillac CTS-V: Also black/black Coupe and other than the interior trim was identical to the last one I drove. I still like it better than the M3. That engine is simply spectacular along with the ride, handling, interior, looks and most everything else. The sole weak spot was the transmission. After driving the BMW DCT it just felt slower, sufficient, but slower. But laying the beans to this car in a straight line is the most fun I've had in a month's worth of a half dozen test drives.
2007 Porsche Cayman S: Finally had the chance to drive one with a 6 SPD and it was the difference maker. I knew the Tiptronic in the other one was holding it back but I had no idea it was such a difference. The beauty of this car is it makes everything fun. 40mph feels like 80mph and 80mph feels like 40 mph, which strangely is an awesome thing. I took my golf clubs and luggage along and I'll be damned if it didn't hold them both no problem. The light, nimble and agile nature of this car just make it a joy to drive.
So my list is complete and I'm going for a Cayman S. Will shoot for an '09 or newer but am unlikely to find one under $40k in the colors I am good with, so will then go with an 06-08 if needed.
The hunt begins today.
E92M3
> NervesOfThrill
10/25/2014 at 10:21 |
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So CTS-V would be your 2nd choice?
Brian Silvestro
> NervesOfThrill
10/25/2014 at 10:22 |
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Yes! I'm glad the Cayman fits all of that stuff. It will make a great all around car.
Finding an 09 or later for under 40k shouldn't be too difficult, I'd give up my choice of color if it meant the updated everything.
It seems that the refreshed models of Porsche are always bullet-proof reliable, while the pre-refreshed ones always have some problems. This is why I'd stretch for the 09+
MontegoMan562 is a Capri RS Owner
> NervesOfThrill
10/25/2014 at 10:34 |
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Ctsv!!!!!!!!!!!!
Crest
> NervesOfThrill
10/25/2014 at 10:52 |
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To be honest with you, since we're talking of a budget of about $40k here, you might as well forget the cayman and go for a 911. The 997's have come down in prices and you score a decent 2006-2008 997 for that amount.
But hey it all comes down to what you want. Whenever i price out a cayman i always look at 911's and you'll be surprised what goodies come my way. It's just for your consideration though
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NervesOfThrill
> Crest
10/25/2014 at 20:14 |
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I like the Caymans better than the 911's. I rented a 911 for 2 days as part of the process but just liked the Cayman better. The 911 was a great car too.
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NervesOfThrill
> Brian Silvestro
10/25/2014 at 20:17 |
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It's about a $10k-$15k difference between the 1st gen and 2nd gen. Or around a 50% premium. from what I've read it is due to the recession limiting sales of the Caymans in those first few years of the 2nd gen, making supply tight.
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Brian Silvestro
> NervesOfThrill
10/25/2014 at 20:19 |
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That explains things. If you find a 2nd gen you like, jump right on it!
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NervesOfThrill
> E92M3
10/25/2014 at 20:19 |
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It would actually. In order they are Cayman S, CTS-V coupe, E90 M3 coupe, 911, Z4M.
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E92M3
> NervesOfThrill
10/25/2014 at 21:29 |
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Oh wow! I did not see that coming. I was rooting for the M3. Cayman S is a great choice though.
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NervesOfThrill
> E92M3
10/25/2014 at 22:22 |
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I have to say that my first impression of the M3 was completely changed after driving the Coupe version this week. The 2nd car was much better cared for and far better looking inside with the black throughout color scheme. I really loved it. It was incredibly composed and so damn fun to run to redline through the gears. If I can't find a 2nd gen Cayman S at the right price, then I still may end up going with the M3. I would be absolutely happy to own any of my top 3 cars, it will just come down to which I find the best deal on probably.
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E92M3
> NervesOfThrill
10/25/2014 at 23:42 |
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Cayman S is probably the best value for dollar, and a true drivers car. I can't wait for the current generation to be sub $40k