what about a mazda speed3? Good aftermarket and gobs of power to start with.
Car Choices: Take 2
Well, this time it is for real... I am out on the car hunt but I have slightly different restrictions this time. Basically, the Saab is up for sale or trade in if need be and will be getting another car this month. Here are the general points I am adhering to:
-Almost new: this means that the car must be within 2-3 years old
-Safe (yeah yeah, parents yah know?)
-Under or around $25,000
-Has to be reasonable (i.e. sadly, no GTO. I tried!)
Now, here are my personal perameters:
-Sporty
-Decent aftermarket support
-Must be available with a manual transmission
-Ideally, I would prefer to have a car that I don't see on every street corner
So right now, I am in debate on a few cars that I feel have their plusses and minuses and am looking to see if you guys have any suggestions or insight into my choices or maybe if there is something I missed in my search. (Listed in terms of rank, 1 is my favorite)
1) Hyundai Genesis coupe 2.0T Track
Basically, these have very strong aftermarket support, are very reasonably priced, safe, and while they are not the fastest out of the box, the track package means the car has a lot of potential.
The bad: well, they are a bit lacking in the power department stock. They are also reasonably common although tastefully modded ones are rare.
2) 2011 Mustang V6 Coupe
For now, the GT is way out of my range both in price and parental approval. These have been getting good reviews and in terms of strengths, they have great handling and balanced performance with the V6.
The bad: they are everywhere, literally. I cannot open my eyes in Socal without seeing a Mustang. Also, it is a v6: limited power output without FI, just not the same as an eight (the real Mustang). I am also not a huge fan of the styling.
3) Chevy Cobalt TB/SS
These things are very quick and handle surprisingly well, I test drove one a year ago and was impressed. The developement money clearly went into the performance for the most part, but these have a ton of potential and are decently practical as well.
The Bad: it is a Cobalt. Also, I am not looking for another FWDLOL car but this is a huge performance bargain.
4)2010 Subaru WRX
Out of the box, these cars can really handle and have a nice amount of performance in a practical package. I really liked driving the last gen WRX and STi models around when I worked at a performance shop in CT and I thought I would include this as well.
The Bad: I have never really been fond of the new styling, and how much could I really use AWD in southern California? Aside from that, they are a bit too "appliance" like when I drove a new one.
If anyone has some insight, feel free to chime in and let me know!
-Almost new: this means that the car must be within 2-3 years old
-Safe (yeah yeah, parents yah know?)
-Under or around $25,000
-Has to be reasonable (i.e. sadly, no GTO. I tried!)
Now, here are my personal perameters:
-Sporty
-Decent aftermarket support
-Must be available with a manual transmission
-Ideally, I would prefer to have a car that I don't see on every street corner
So right now, I am in debate on a few cars that I feel have their plusses and minuses and am looking to see if you guys have any suggestions or insight into my choices or maybe if there is something I missed in my search. (Listed in terms of rank, 1 is my favorite)
1) Hyundai Genesis coupe 2.0T Track
Basically, these have very strong aftermarket support, are very reasonably priced, safe, and while they are not the fastest out of the box, the track package means the car has a lot of potential.
The bad: well, they are a bit lacking in the power department stock. They are also reasonably common although tastefully modded ones are rare.
2) 2011 Mustang V6 Coupe
For now, the GT is way out of my range both in price and parental approval. These have been getting good reviews and in terms of strengths, they have great handling and balanced performance with the V6.
The bad: they are everywhere, literally. I cannot open my eyes in Socal without seeing a Mustang. Also, it is a v6: limited power output without FI, just not the same as an eight (the real Mustang). I am also not a huge fan of the styling.
3) Chevy Cobalt TB/SS
These things are very quick and handle surprisingly well, I test drove one a year ago and was impressed. The developement money clearly went into the performance for the most part, but these have a ton of potential and are decently practical as well.
The Bad: it is a Cobalt. Also, I am not looking for another FWDLOL car but this is a huge performance bargain.
4)2010 Subaru WRX
Out of the box, these cars can really handle and have a nice amount of performance in a practical package. I really liked driving the last gen WRX and STi models around when I worked at a performance shop in CT and I thought I would include this as well.
The Bad: I have never really been fond of the new styling, and how much could I really use AWD in southern California? Aside from that, they are a bit too "appliance" like when I drove a new one.
If anyone has some insight, feel free to chime in and let me know!
1 - 20 of 236 Posts
Mazdaspeed 6? Can be had in hatch form. AWD and turbo charged.
I think you can get an LSD with the Cobalt SS. GM's option code was G80 for posi.
How about a G8 GT?
I think you can get an LSD with the Cobalt SS. GM's option code was G80 for posi.
How about a G8 GT?
The 6 hatch was never offered in Mazdaspeed form and the MS6 has been gone for a few years now.Mazdaspeed 6? Can be had in hatch form. AWD and turbo charged.
I think you can get an LSD with the Cobalt SS. GM's option code was G80 for posi.
How about a G8 GT?
The G8 GT is auto only, the GXP was the 6mt offering.
I say '09-10 WRX hatch. The bang for the buck is insane and the best looking of the new body style.
v6 mustang.
300+ hp, 30 mpg.
I want to see what 8-10 psi does to one of those. Plus they look badass.
Also, the 09-10 WRX looks like a taint.
300+ hp, 30 mpg.
I want to see what 8-10 psi does to one of those. Plus they look badass.
Also, the 09-10 WRX looks like a taint.
Mini Cooper S JCW
9-2x Aero
9-3SS
9-2x Aero
9-3SS
Thanks guys! I was looking through the G8s but Pontiac is probably not an option and the reason is kind of dumb: my dad says that it is ridiculous to buy a car from a dead brand hence why the GTO is out of contention. I am not a fan of the MS3 to be honest, even though they are a real performance bargain.
I am very intrigued by the Stang with the new 3.7 V6 but I have been doing a lot of reading and it seems as though the aftermarket support for the 6 will be much less than the GT, plus there is discussion of how those cars take more power as the transmissions are being found to be a bit weak.
I don't know, a Genesis 2.0T seems very similar to Saab I4s: it can take 400whp with stock internals reliably, easy to work on, MAP setup, big aftermarket, and a few bolt ons get you 250whp with RWD.
I am not a fan of the MS3 to be honest, even though they are a real performance bargain. I am very intrigued by the Stang with the new 3.7 V6 but I have been doing a lot of reading and it seems as though the aftermarket support for the 6 will be much less than the GT, plus there is discussion of how those cars take more power as the transmissions are being found to be a bit weak.
I don't know, a Genesis 2.0T seems very similar to Saab I4s: it can take 400whp with stock internals reliably, easy to work on, MAP setup, big aftermarket, and a few bolt ons get you 250whp with RWD.
Just drove the 08 WRX STi, and I totally understand what you mean by appliance. It is one of the more boring cars I've ever driven. Fuck that car.
I'm not a fan of the styling, but they are a great bit of car for the money..
I say '09-10 WRX hatch. The bang for the buck is insane and the best looking of the new body style.
I beat on the Hyundai Genesis coupes, 2.0T and 3.8, at a promotional event. The 3.8 was great as I got some great wheel spin going, but I preferred the 2.0T at the end of the day. A very nice car and definitely in the running for my next car.
I'd also consider the Mini and Mazdaspeed3. Maybe even a Miata if you are comfortable enough with your sexuality and/or getting laid regularly. The 2011 Mustang is also awesome, but I fear it will not meet your exclusivity requirement for very long.
why not an 04-06 wrx or sti? you can get em in great shape on your coast.
not in the least bit exclusive, but i've been drooling over the mk6 gti. if i was in the market for a new car, it'd be that.
i was working at a hyundai dealer when the genesis sedan came out, and was very excited to see the coupe. that said, i'm quite dissapointed. it's a damn boat! what do they weigh, like 3800lbs? rediculous. they look bloated too. i look at is as a rwd version of the current eclipse, which is rubbish.
also not exclusive, but why not a 350z? nice suspension work and a blower and that'd be a fun stylish ride.
all that being said, you should ignore all rules and reason and get something like this: http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1984...iewItem&pt=US_Cars_Trucks&hash=item2308857d42
i was working at a hyundai dealer when the genesis sedan came out, and was very excited to see the coupe. that said, i'm quite dissapointed. it's a damn boat! what do they weigh, like 3800lbs? rediculous. they look bloated too. i look at is as a rwd version of the current eclipse, which is rubbish.
also not exclusive, but why not a 350z? nice suspension work and a blower and that'd be a fun stylish ride.
all that being said, you should ignore all rules and reason and get something like this: http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1984...iewItem&pt=US_Cars_Trucks&hash=item2308857d42
2.0T is about 3300-3400lbs, not light.not in the least bit exclusive, but i've been drooling over the mk6 gti. if i was in the market for a new car, it'd be that.
i was working at a hyundai dealer when the genesis sedan came out, and was very excited to see the coupe. that said, i'm quite dissapointed. it's a damn boat! what do they weigh, like 3800lbs? rediculous. they look bloated too. i look at is as a rwd version of the current eclipse, which is rubbish.
also not exclusive, but why not a 350z? nice suspension work and a blower and that'd be a fun stylish ride.
all that being said, you should ignore all rules and reason and get something like this: http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1984...iewItem&pt=US_Cars_Trucks&hash=item2308857d42
I just read the Gene' for '11 is getting an upgraded interior that looks and feels much nicer. I would not buy an '10 knowing that.
Also, instead of a $25k V-6 Mustang, hold out for a Demo with $5-6k off of a GT.
Check the service intervals on any Hyundai. Buddys gal picked a car and left him out of the loop. Normal timing belt change was like 90,000 on a "normal" car ... on the Hyundai it was like 15,000 and cost a pile of change.
He was so pizzed he refused to do the second belt for her (he's a great mech) ... so she traded it. Probably not a bad move.
He was so pizzed he refused to do the second belt for her (he's a great mech) ... so she traded it. Probably not a bad move.
Good points here - 911 Turbo is classic style - and timeless design there. I'd trade up for a classic 911 Turbo any-day if I could.not in the least bit exclusive, but i've been drooling over the mk6 gti. if i was in the market for a new car, it'd be that.
i was working at a hyundai dealer when the genesis sedan came out, and was very excited to see the coupe. that said, i'm quite dissapointed. it's a damn boat! what do they weigh, like 3800lbs? rediculous. they look bloated too. i look at is as a rwd version of the current eclipse, which is rubbish.
also not exclusive, but why not a 350z? nice suspension work and a blower and that'd be a fun stylish ride.
all that being said, you should ignore all rules and reason and get something like this: http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1984...iewItem&pt=US_Cars_Trucks&hash=item2308857d42
Otherwise I'd say new cars - WRX/STI are nice and seem well received.
Saab/Porsche/Volvo - those are the first 3 cars that come to mind when I think about "upgrades" from a 9-3
New C30 Volvo has been doing well with reliability and looks/design - not sure about re-sale values on them yet - but I would imagine it's in the ballpark or under (but it is a smaller car)
I rode in a friend's RX8 and was not very impressed even though it was the higher out manual trans model. Now, I would die for an RX7 but yeah, not going to happen haha.RX8 r3 type
Exactly, that is what I meant.Just drove the 08 WRX STi, and I totally understand what you mean by appliance. It is one of the more boring cars I've ever driven. Fuck that car.
I am definately not going for a Mini or Miata and not because of insecurity. I drove a tuned MCS around for a while and hated the car, the Miata is just a bit too impractical and underwhelming for my taste.I'm not a fan of the styling, but they are a great bit of car for the money.
I beat on the Hyundai Genesis coupes, 2.0T and 3.8, at a promotional event. The 3.8 was great as I got some great wheel spin going, but I preferred the 2.0T at the end of the day. A very nice car and definitely in the running for my next car.
I'd also consider the Mini and Mazdaspeed3. Maybe even a Miata if you are comfortable enough with your sexuality and/or getting laid regularly. The 2011 Mustang is also awesome, but I fear it will not meet your exclusivity requirement for very long.
I would, however I have always had a love hate thing with Subarus. Sometimes, I just love the way they drive and their character but other times, they seem obnoxious. The best way I would put it is that I like driving them, but I would never own one.why not an 04-06 wrx or sti? you can get em in great shape on your coast.
Haha, I tried the Porsche 964/993 angle and lets just say it didn't catch much wind. The 2.0T Track Genesis Couple weights less that 3300 pounds (3260) so it is actually fairly light considering the weight of many coupes these days. I really hate the G35/350z for some reason, I have always found the exhaust annoying and there are so many around Socal that are stupidly slammed and stanced.not in the least bit exclusive, but i've been drooling over the mk6 gti. if i was in the market for a new car, it'd be that.
i was working at a hyundai dealer when the genesis sedan came out, and was very excited to see the coupe. that said, i'm quite dissapointed. it's a damn boat! what do they weigh, like 3800lbs? rediculous. they look bloated too. i look at is as a rwd version of the current eclipse, which is rubbish.
also not exclusive, but why not a 350z? nice suspension work and a blower and that'd be a fun stylish ride.
My apologies, I have been looking at the 2011 Genesis Coupes, the only update is a soft touch dash from their press release and they are already out. The 2.0T track is just under 3300lbs from what I can tell which is okay since my Saab is around the same albeit with a wobbly convertible chassis. I am trying my best to see about the 2011 GT but we will see.2.0T is about 3300-3400lbs, not light.
I just read the Gene' for '11 is getting an upgraded interior that looks and feels much nicer. I would not buy an '10 knowing that.
Also, instead of a $25k V-6 Mustang, hold out for a Demo with $5-6k off of a GT.
I tried for a 1st gen CTS-V and that was not an option unfortunately. They offer a huge amount of performance and practicality but I can't say I am loving the interior.-g35
-Legacy GT
-cts-v
The new Theta 2.0T engine has proven to be very reliable and can take 400rwhp on stock internals and are easy to work on thanks to a lot of space in the engine bay and are somewhat similar to the MAP system used on my Saab. At least that is what I have gained from lurking on the genesis forums.Check the service intervals on any Hyundai. Buddys gal picked a car and left him out of the loop. Normal timing belt change was like 90,000 on a "normal" car ... on the Hyundai it was like 15,000 and cost a pile of change.
He was so pizzed he refused to do the second belt for her (he's a great mech) ... so she traded it. Probably not a bad move.
I would kill for a classic 911 but it will never happen until I am financially independent. My all time favorite Porsche is the 993 Turbo but those are still way up in the $60k plus range haha. Unless I find a Turbo-X with a 6 speed manual for under 30k, I will not be sticking with Saab. I was thinking about a Volvo S60 T5 but I am not the biggest fan of Volvo to be honest.Good points here - 911 Turbo is classic style - and timeless design there. I'd trade up for a classic 911 Turbo any-day if I could.
Otherwise I'd say new cars - WRX/STI are nice and seem well received.
Saab/Porsche/Volvo - those are the first 3 cars that come to mind when I think about "upgrades" from a 9-3
New C30 Volvo has been doing well with reliability and looks/design - not sure about re-sale values on them yet - but I would imagine it's in the ballpark or under (but it is a smaller car)
Timing belts are typically 60k on average and I doubt the Hyundai was 15k. Also, plenty of them have timing chains which might be the 2.0T.Check the service intervals on any Hyundai. Buddys gal picked a car and left him out of the loop. Normal timing belt change was like 90,000 on a "normal" car ... on the Hyundai it was like 15,000 and cost a pile of change.
He was so pizzed he refused to do the second belt for her (he's a great mech) ... so she traded it. Probably not a bad move.
A few ideas:
- G35
- Lexus SC roadster
- Lexus IS350....an awesome looking and performing car.
- Audi TT (not everyone's cup of tea, but I love the style/unique look)
- 350z (my brother has one with a light weight flywheel and exhaust and the thing is vicious)
- I know this falls outside your age limit, but you can spend half of your 25k and get a stage 3 B5 Audi S4 in excellent condition...tuned properly, they are not only reliable, but insanely fast....just tell don't tell your parents it's tuned, lol.
- Newer mustang....you can't argue with the price, performance and looks. Awesome cars.
- 2009 WRX- 0-60 in 4.7 seconds
Whatever you choose, just do your homework and drive ALOT of cars. Too often, people buy the first thing they drive. Take an abundance of cars out for a drive, go home, consider the pros/cons, and really think things out. If you do those things, you'll definitely make the best choice.
- G35
- Lexus SC roadster
- Lexus IS350....an awesome looking and performing car.
- Audi TT (not everyone's cup of tea, but I love the style/unique look)
- 350z (my brother has one with a light weight flywheel and exhaust and the thing is vicious)
- I know this falls outside your age limit, but you can spend half of your 25k and get a stage 3 B5 Audi S4 in excellent condition...tuned properly, they are not only reliable, but insanely fast....just tell don't tell your parents it's tuned, lol.
- Newer mustang....you can't argue with the price, performance and looks. Awesome cars.
- 2009 WRX- 0-60 in 4.7 seconds
Whatever you choose, just do your homework and drive ALOT of cars. Too often, people buy the first thing they drive. Take an abundance of cars out for a drive, go home, consider the pros/cons, and really think things out. If you do those things, you'll definitely make the best choice.
1 - 20 of 236 Posts
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