Per this link found in the Fiat 500 US Market thread, we'll have two places to geaux 500 shopping: Since we have a local dealer this is high on my shopping list. Build Your Own My thoughts: Image Unavailable, Please Login Image Unavailable, Please Login
Just curious, but why? Just 'cuz it's a Fiat? Personally, there's a list a mile long of cars I'd put $20k towards before owning a 500 outright. It's an interesting car, but there's nothing it can do that a Mini can't do 10X better. But hey, to each their own! Just not my cup of tea.
Fair question. I might be commuting back into the city (from the Northshore) on a regular basis and I want something with better than average MPG for under $20K (ideally well under). I also want something that I think is somewhat cool and well regarded (e.g. Fit, but not really a fan of the looks) rather than just a plain DD (e.g. Corolla). There are some interesting rides on the horizon (e.g. Ford Fiesta) and it will probably be ~ 1 yr before I buy. With the 500 I see it as a stepping stone to a Fcar; i.e. at least its Italian in heritage (if not build plant) and the fact that there will be a NOLA dealer is a plus over the Mini (closest is BR). Unlikely to see one on every corner too. I thought about a used Mini and while still on the shopping list, the cons are dealer locale and the out-of-warranty costs are high (Fiat's are obviously TBD). All that said, I've also thought about going a different direction and buying a several year old Miata as my DD. Its got pretty good MPG and the cool factor plus I want a convertible, but safety is a concern. I was in a pretty bad accident on I-12 a couple years ago and have no desire to experience anywhere near the same in a Miata; my outcome would have been far worse. Thus, I'm thinking something new with all the safety bells and whistles and then maybe a beater Miata as a weekend toy. Decisions, decisions. P.S. Dave, Did you see my PM about the Enzo hat?
Seems like a 335 will match your desires of "cool", decent on gas, fun to drive, well regarded, and, as bonus, with a little bit of money in tuning and exhaust it can turned into a rocket.
As in BMW? If so, were you following me today? My son and I went car looking today; the Chrysler dealer in Slidell has one and it was unlocked. We climbed in; it "fit" well and seems in great condition. It's more than I want to spend ($24K per above link) and the 58K miles are a lot b/c I'd have it over a 100K in < 2 years. If I go German, it will probably by a GTI if I can find a nice non-modded/non-abused low miler. MPG isn't great considering the size but I love that plaid interior.
I even like the color. The mini leaves me cold when I sit behind the wheel, don't like the dash setup, although fun to drive. Of course if I had room for another car I'd likely get an Accord. After I had one as a rental car some time back I've wanted one. Strange eh?
Not sure, but it's coming: Confirmed: Fiat 500 Abarth coming to U.S., all-electric 500 BEV to launch first
There website is up: http://www.fiatusaofneworleans.com/index.htm as is their FB page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/FIAT-of-New-Orleans/165262400190141
They finally opened and I stopped by today. About 18 or so in stock and one is a soft-top. Image Unavailable, Please Login
Stopped by the dealer today for an oil change and inquired whether they are getting an Alfa franchise. My salesman said they are planning on it for 2014 and are planning/hoping for Maserati too! He described how the Fiat building and lot will be reconfigured so it sounds like more than just chit chat. Fingers crossed for an Italian invasion.
