| Author | Message | ||
| Nebula Class (Nebulaclass)
Junior Member Username: Nebulaclass Post Number: 101 Registered: 11-2002 |
Brian, This may be a sin on a F-car site, but have you considered looking at a used Mustang Cobra? I know, I know, american, junk, blah blah blah. But trust me....take one out for a spin! It can't hurt! 4 wheel IRS (if you get a 99 and up model), great brakes, and a 317hp, 317tq, DOHC 32V all aluminum engine that is hand built and SCREAMS!!! You could probably find a great example of one for 18-20K if you shopped hard enough, and you would absolutely love the car. Trust me on this one....before you buy anything, try to test drive one of these bastards. Relly fine automobile. | ||
| Brian Saligman (Brisalig)
New member Username: Brisalig Post Number: 44 Registered: 8-2002 |
I think I may have made up my mind, but tell me if you guys like my idea...A 2003 VW Jetta GLI fully loaded with a 6-speed. Black on black with a rear spoiler and stainless steel dash kit. The car comes with the 17inch wheels, so it really wont look like a regular jetta. I like thefeatures of the RSX, however its a 2 door, and unless its a ferrari or lamborghini, I dont think id like the drive a 2 door. The wrx is fun to drive, no doubt, and I like powerful cars, however I dont want a car thats gonna get me lots of speeding tickets. Ill have a radar detector, however the WRX is gonna get me into trouble. The GLI has lots of power, but its not quite as fast as the wrx. I think ill be in better shape with that. A used BMW is still an option if the price is right, and if its in good enough shape, but until I find one, Im gonna stick with the jetta. | ||
| Hubert Otlik (Hugh)
Member Username: Hugh Post Number: 430 Registered: 1-2002 |
Byron- Awesome! My 1st car was a '85 Nissan 300zx, had a host of suspension mods, engine work, etc.; had to find a way to haul that heavy heap, especially since it was N/A. I loved that car, and the VG30 motors were bulletproof. Hey, you coming down this weekend? Call me, man. | ||
| Byron (Bmyth)
Junior Member Username: Bmyth Post Number: 148 Registered: 10-2002 |
Have you thought of a 1991 or 1992 NSX? They are very reliable (if not in snap-ring range)... but at 16, your insurance will kill you. Bimmers won't give you the insurance break either. I second Hubert's suggestion - go for 2nd hand japanese. They make great starter cars. At 16, I started with a used Nissan 300ZX... absolutely loved it! | ||
| David S (Djs308)
Junior Member Username: Djs308 Post Number: 59 Registered: 9-2002 |
William, I saw your posts on your stolen Integra; really sorry to hear about your loss. It's unfortunate that the great cars are so popular with the thieves... Now, if your budget permits, how about considering the Infiniti G35 coupe? It just got Motor Trend's car of the year award and is essentially a 350Z underneath. Might be worth a look. Also, R&T just reviewed it a couple of issues ago and the performance is really close to the 350. If not, just get a 328 and enjoy!! | ||
| William Huber (Solipsist)
Member Username: Solipsist Post Number: 587 Registered: 9-2001 |
I guess I'm now in the same boat as you, Brian. Since my Integra got stolen & I'm waiting on a answer from my insurance company, I just started look again at cars. Test driving is the fun part, putting up with pushy sale people, AAAUUGGHH!! I went to check out the Lexus IS300 in a 5sp (of course) It was ok, but I'm also going to look an Honda S2000, Subaru WRX, Mini Cooper S, BMW Z4, or what ever anyone here can recommend. I could just go all out & just get a used F car (308, 328 35K max) but that would be pushing it bit much at this present time. | ||
| David S (Djs308)
Junior Member Username: Djs308 Post Number: 55 Registered: 9-2002 |
Oh, one other thing, the RSX weighs 2700 lbs. On the Type-S, 0-60 is about 6.7 seconds, if I remember R&T numbers correctly. | ||
| David S (Djs308)
Junior Member Username: Djs308 Post Number: 54 Registered: 9-2002 |
Brian, I got my RSX with just the options that come standard. My particular car was a leftover 2002 that the dealer wanted to get rid of to make way for the '03's. It happened to have leather by chance and the dealer gave me a steep discount on that option. Other than that, it's got a 160HP 4cylinder VTEC (Type-S has 200HP), with power everything, 16" alloy 5 spokes wheels, cruise control, 5 speed manual, automatic climate control, 4 wheel disc ABS, electric sun/moonroof, factory remote/alarm, Acura roadside assistance 24/7, etc.. The rear spoiler looks tacky on the RSX so I passed on that option. Now, if you look at the Type-S, there are some extras to look for. New for '03 is a special performance package (only on Type-S) with 17" alloys, bigger disc brakes, bigger sway bars, etc. Not many people heard about it so ask the dealer for more info... As I mentioned before, the RSX is a lot of fun to drive but it might not appeal to everybody. Still, go ahead and give one a test drive, even if you want a BMW or WRX anyway.... | ||
| BobD (Bobd)
Member Username: Bobd Post Number: 934 Registered: 3-2001 |
I agree with Jimpo below.... but only buy the extended warranty if it's NOT a Honda or Toyota. | ||
| Brian Saligman (Brisalig)
New member Username: Brisalig Post Number: 42 Registered: 8-2002 |
Andrew, I have only been driving for a year, however I have driven from new york to saint louis 4 times, and been on the road 3 times every single day, usually for about 40 minutes each time. I spent 3 months driving and rebuilding a 1955 MG TF-1500. That car was a real challenge to drive, every gear needs double clutching, and no "syncromesh" I have the experience. Nebula, I am ready to start dealing with you, but are you ready to let me name a price. Please email me at [email protected] | ||
| William Huber (Solipsist)
Member Username: Solipsist Post Number: 586 Registered: 9-2001 |
Subaru WRX or Mini Cooper S, very fun to drive. The Acura RSX didn't suit me well, it felt smaller & sits higher up than my Integra did. I beleive that it is also a heavyer car. Jim's right, get a used car of your choice no older than 2 to 3 years, then buy an extended warranty. | ||
| Jim E (Jimpo1)
Intermediate Member Username: Jimpo1 Post Number: 1165 Registered: 7-2001 |
Buy the used car of your choice, then buy an extended warranty. | ||
| Nebula Class (Nebulaclass)
Junior Member Username: Nebulaclass Post Number: 91 Registered: 11-2002 |
Brian... the car still has the remainder of the facotry warrant: still left is 12 month and 15K miles. | ||
| Andrew Menasce (Amenasce)
Member Username: Amenasce Post Number: 481 Registered: 10-2001 |
You are 16 and you want something fast as a WRX ? How many hours have you spent behind the wheel? | ||
| Eric Eiland (Eric308gtsiqv)
Member Username: Eric308gtsiqv Post Number: 529 Registered: 11-2001 |
You could easily buy a Porsche 944 N/A or Turbo for around $4 to $7 grand....great car, good looks, very quick...but you'll easily spend the remaining $17 grand or so on upgrades, repaint, rebuild, and repairs....ask me how I know  . Looks like I'm stuck with mine. | ||
| Brian Saligman (Brisalig)
New member Username: Brisalig Post Number: 41 Registered: 8-2002 |
Guys, take a look at some pictures of the jetta gli. It is really a performer. For the last 2 months (since I discovered it) i have been on the fence about that car. I think that it might be the car for me. Serch for it on google and tell me what you think. Remember this car will be fully loaded, everything offered on the GLI, (leather, sunroof, and prem sound) and has a 200 hp 2.8 liter v6 with a 6-speed tranny. 17 inch 5-spoke whelles, I really get alot of the money, plus a rear spoiler and stainless steel trim on the dash. I guess I am just being difficlut...sorry | ||
| Brian Saligman (Brisalig)
New member Username: Brisalig Post Number: 40 Registered: 8-2002 |
It is a nice car, however I am looking for a car with a warranty. If I buy a a german car from a private buyer, I could be in trouble, Im not saying your dad didnt take care of the car, but I know lots of people with german cars, and they just dont always hold up. Lots of little problems that can be fixed, but cost money. I would take your dads car for a second for 24k, i'd take it tomarrow, but I need to see it, drive it, ect ect. I also need that warranty. I am going to look at the rsx on friday, David, can you tell me what options you got, interrior and exterrior? Thanks | ||
| DES (Sickspeed)
Intermediate Member Username: Sickspeed Post Number: 1180 Registered: 8-2002 |
That IS a pretty good picture- looks like it belongs in a magazine... Nice car, too... i wouldn't mind giving it a spin... | ||
| Nebula Class (Nebulaclass)
Junior Member Username: Nebulaclass Post Number: 88 Registered: 11-2002 |
Here's my dad's car: http://www.cars.com/search/used/cc/standard/results/single/ld/detail.jhtml?paId=119349532&aff=national&src=&cid=&row=19 Nice photo, huh? I took that....it's in Rancho Palis Verde. | ||
| Jordan Witherspoon (Jordan747_400)
Junior Member Username: Jordan747_400 Post Number: 154 Registered: 12-2002 |
Id buy an old 308 GT4...but thats just me You could get a good older Rolls Royce for 15k...but that might look odd for a teenager at High School. I thought about doing that but decided against it Or do what I want to do and buy a good fiat Spider...not too flashy, but fun and pretty cheap. Then save all the rest of the money and youll be rich | ||
| Joseph (Mojo)
Junior Member Username: Mojo Post Number: 242 Registered: 9-2002 |
RSX all the way if your 16. Subaru if your in your 20's | ||
| Nebula Class (Nebulaclass)
Junior Member Username: Nebulaclass Post Number: 87 Registered: 11-2002 |
Hey Brian! Buy my dad's 323i! It's a 2000, with only 29k miles, and it is CHERRY. My pops is a boring old man, and I swear that the car probably the nicest 2000 BMW you'll see. It's a 5-spd, and it is a blast to drive. Curves the corners, revs very smoothly, and looks great. let me know if you are interested. He's asking $26, but he'll probably dump it for $24 if you are serious. | ||
| Chris Horner (Cmhorner17)
Junior Member Username: Cmhorner17 Post Number: 63 Registered: 4-2002 |
If you HAVE to have leather and a sunroof, go for the RSX. It's a blast to drive. If you can do without those two items (from the factory anyway) go for the WRX. Just my $.02. The performance of the WRX is amazing for mid-$20's - not to mention how easy it is to get more power out of it. Or, a certified pre owned 3 series would give you the best of all worlds. | ||
| David S (Djs308)
Junior Member Username: Djs308 Post Number: 52 Registered: 9-2002 |
I just got myself a 2002 Acura RSX as my daily commuter. I asked for (and got) the 5 speed, leather, sunroof, ABS, Quad airbags, power windows and locks, etc. There are two basic RSXs, the base model and the Type-S. Mine is the base model. Torque is the same on both, the difference is in HP (200 vs 160). I did not set out to get the RSX and I shopped at other car manufacturers. For the money ($18-24K), you get a well designed, good performing car. Everything I wanted on the car was STANDARD on the RSX, but OPTIONAL on others (ie: the Celica). It was an easy decision for me. It has 2+2 seating and it gets 29mpg!!! It is not a drag racer but with the VTEC engine and the manual tranny, it is VERY enjoyable to drive. I'm very happy with my RSX and recommend a test drive. Not everyone will like it, but it's definitely worth a look at... | ||
| Hubert Otlik (Hugh)
Member Username: Hugh Post Number: 419 Registered: 1-2002 |
Brian- in my experience w/ both audi's and vw's, the modern cars, they seem to experience a lot of innane and redundant problems. A few friends w/ GTi's consistently had their cars in the shop for strange electrial outings, shorts, trim pieces falling off, radio not working, blown headlights, etc. my buddy w/ an '02 A4 had a power mirror give out, a week into ownership, and waited 1 month for a replacement, just to have his dash illumination go out. If you want reliable, get a Honda. Hands Down. | ||
| Brian Saligman (Brisalig)
New member Username: Brisalig Post Number: 39 Registered: 8-2002 |
I like your ideas, and if I was gonna get a used car I would shoot for a 98 BMW 328i, but this car needs to last through the end of grad school, I am a sophmore in highschool now. I need a car where I know everything that has happened to it. I dont want to get stuck with someone elses problems. If I get a GlI, (200 hp VR6 2.8 liter)6-speed tranny, I would get it fully loaded with everything offered, and tint the windows, add a rear deck spoiler, and install a stainless steel dash kit. Black on black, the car has 17 inch 5-spoke wheels, I dont think itd be a girlie car. | ||
| Hubert Otlik (Hugh)
Member Username: Hugh Post Number: 417 Registered: 1-2002 |
You should get a decent VW Karmen Ghia, and put the rest of the money away until you're ready to handle a fast(er) car or not; the Ghia is light, reliable, cheap (to own and work on), and is pretty 'cool', IMO. And, a good example, shouldn't run you more than 3000, depending where you are. That's 21k that you can put away for a rainy day, or when you are able to make up your mind. | ||
| BobD (Bobd)
Member Username: Bobd Post Number: 932 Registered: 3-2001 |
How about a used S2000? Quick, good looking and Honda-reliable. | ||
| DES (Sickspeed)
Intermediate Member Username: Sickspeed Post Number: 1162 Registered: 8-2002 |
You want something fast, that handles well, for 24k...? How about Heidi Fleiss...? | ||
| Mike Clark (Vipersrt)
New member Username: Vipersrt Post Number: 17 Registered: 10-2002 |
Get a used 97-99 Corvette. It would be a great car and fast too. Plus it would be an eye catcher for your age. A lot of Ferrari fokes would disagree, but it would be cool to have. | ||
| Brian Saligman (Brisalig)
New member Username: Brisalig Post Number: 38 Registered: 8-2002 |
The cooper S is not my style. I drove one, and its a hell of a drive, but not my style | ||
| martin J weiner,M.D. (Mw360)
Member Username: Mw360 Post Number: 744 Registered: 5-2001 |
Get a CooperS. see recent thread under Other Italian. | ||
| RyanK (Ryanab)
Junior Member Username: Ryanab Post Number: 245 Registered: 3-2002 |
Subaru, Subaru, Subaru!! | ||
| Brian Saligman (Brisalig)
New member Username: Brisalig Post Number: 37 Registered: 8-2002 |
Hey guys, Sorry to do this to you again, but I really have a horrible case of I CANT MAKE UP MY MIND disease. I need to get a car, I am now 16, and have been putting off the actual sale becuase I dont want to buy something that I wanted for a day, and not like a few days later. I want a new car, and I have about 24k to work with. I want something fast, that handels well. I have been looking at the VW Jetta GLI (very very fast) the acura RSX, the subru WRX, ect, ect. Please help me out here. Anything you can point out to me about these cars would be greatly appericiated. I want a stickshift with leather and maybe a sunroof. Thanks in advance, and I wont bother this topic of what car to buy anymore after this, I promise. Regards, Brian |