Tell me about....

[Tsar]

Well it's time for me to sell my F-body and get something else. I was hoping to wait until graduation but one recent development has forced my hand. So my car is for sale (link in my sig) and I'm trying to research a fun to drive replacement.

I'm interested in them in this particular order (all new, no used):

Mini Cooper S
Dodge Caliber SRT-4
VW GTI
Subaru WRX
Mazda Speed 3

They are all in the same ball park, money wise, but I was wondering if you had any experience with any of them, or heard something bad/good, whatever. I want to know it all. If you have a car suggestion you can add it to the list, maybe I'll look at it.

Ok lets get to the talking part, :nod:

go go go

[JL8Jeff]

I look at VW cars as 50/50. Half of them have run great and never have problems and half of them break down and leave the driver stranded. I know relatives, friends and co-workers that have owned VW's and it truly was split on the results. The worst of them ended up with lemon law cases. So I would drop that down on the list. My mom has had quite a few Dodge cars and she always has some form of major problem with them so I would drop that down as well. The only problem with the WRX is a couple people I know managed to wrap them around trees thinking they could do anything they wanted with them and you can't in bad weather. So that's not a problem with the car, but driver error. :lol: I would lean towards the WRX.

[Frosty]

I'd personally go with the Maz-duh 3 or the WRX. MiniCooper? I didn't know you were a yuppie. GTI? See Mini comment and add that the car is junk. ;) Dodge Caliber? Seriously? You finally came out of the closet?

:D

On a serious note, I think the Mazda and WRX will give you a nice blend of performance and comfort. The Subaru will be reliable, I don't know much about the MazdaSpeed 3 but people I know with the run of the mill 3 have had no issues with theirs.

[Tsar]

I'd personally go with the Maz-duh 3 or the WRX. MiniCooper? I didn't know you were a yuppie. GTI? See Mini comment and add that the car is junk. ;) Dodge Caliber? Seriously? You finally came out of the closet?

:D

On a serious note, I think the Mazda and WRX will give you a nice blend of performance and comfort. The Subaru will be reliable, I don't know much about the MazdaSpeed 3 but people I know with the run of the mill 3 have had no issues with theirs.
:lol: I heard coopers are fun to drive plus its FI so I will mod it, eventually and it should be a track beast. CSRT4 has 285 horses, just as much as my lt1 used to have - torque steer should be fun if I throw some extra parts on there.



Yea... VW are kinda junkie, at least that's their rep anyways, but its in the price range :lol:

[WildBillyT]

WRX or Mazda. I wouldn't bother with a Dodge anything at this point.

[BigAls87Z28]

I would stay away from the vw. The new rex looks like dog ****. I'd look at the lancer ralliart over the wrx. No way on the caliber either. You think your interior sucks now...
I like the new turbo mini and its a solid car. Mazda is also a good car but id go mini.
Uf you are going to consider the caliber the go for the better cobalt ss which has been getting outstanding reviews about its performance.

[Tsar]

This is good, keep it coming.

I agree with Al that new subaru's are but fugly. :lol:
As far as as the Cobalt goes, I don't think I can haul stuff in it, well comfortably at least. Cars I listed have a decent amount of space in the back so I can throw my snowboard in there and go riding, not sure if i can do that in a Cobalt. But I will look at it, can't hurt. Thanks for the suggestion.

So vw really sucks, huh :lol:

At least I got another vote for the Mini Copper (and nothing bad was said about it), I'm starting to like that car.

[The Fixer]

My neighbor's friend had a Cooper S for a while. I don't know how it compares to the new generation Cooper S, but the old one rode great. It was like driving a street-legal go-kart! My only complaint was waiting for the boost to come on and the lack of low-end torque made it feel boring off the line. Torque is more important than HP on the street, cause that's what gets you moving out into highway traffic. :)

[WildBillyT]

This is good, keep it coming.

I agree with Al that new subaru's are but fugly. :lol:
As far as as the Cobalt goes, I don't think I can haul stuff in it, well comfortably at least. Cars I listed have a decent amount of space in the back so I can throw my snowboard in there and go riding, not sure if i can do that in a Cobalt. But I will look at it, can't hurt. Thanks for the suggestion.

So vw really sucks, huh :lol:

At least I got another vote for the Mini Copper (and nothing bad was said about it), I'm starting to like that car.

I know two people with Mini Cooper S's (a really good friend, and my cousin) and both of them love the car. I've driven it and it's nice. The only reason I didn't include it is because it seems like a car you own for a short while until you have to get something more practical. It doesn't strike me as something you own for 5+ years or so. If you don't need that type of life out of a car, then go for that.

[Squirrel]

The original LT1 crew just keeps gettin smaller :(
But my take:
Mini - Meh, if its your style, one of my friends had one, said driving it in the snow he had to buy new packs of underwear every week or so... but you had a TA so youd be used to it
Caliber - Have no clue what it is, but chrysler will be going bye bye if this keeps up
Vw - I love Gti's awesome cars that respond amazing to mods, and bitches love em
WRX - these things are getting uglier every year
Mazda - My mom has a regular 3 series and i think its an awesome car, handles great, rides nice, and i cant find anything to say bad about it

[jims69camaro]

http://www.miniusa.com/

[79CamaroDiva]

"one recent development had forced my hand"


There's no mini-vitals coming is there?

[Anti_Rice_Guy]

Don't really know much about the cars, but I would point out the mileage...I'm fairly sure the WRX gets worse than the LT1 you're used to. Everything else will get much better mileage.

Question: Why no cobalt ss/ion redline? It's the same category as those cars.

[sweetbmxrider]

well i have seen many cases where people drove mini's through big puddles and seized the engine. i would stay away. the intake is designed to perfectly suck up a bucket full no problem. like jeff was saying, vw's seem to be hit or miss. when they miss, they cost most money. can't say anything against the mazda or dodge and of course the subaru is butt looking but the drive train holds up great and the stock bottom end can handle good boost. all wheel is always a plus!

[NJSPEEDER]

Caliber is a pile of crap, avoid avoid avoid!!!

Mini S is a nice little car, handles well and has a surprisingly smooth ride.

Mazda 3, nice car, not as peppy as the WRX or the Mini would be off the line, once they get rolling a little they do ok

WRX, great car. My bro has one. Rides great, handles very well, just gets questionable mileage for the size and power. Dunno why, scubbies just never put down any MPG

VW GTI, you are basically buying an image car. They seem great but VW quality can be suspect. They spent several years at the bottom of initial customer satisfaction and never seem to get too far off the bottom of the list.

For me the debate would have to be between the 3 Speed and the Mini S. The 3 offers a little bit more space, the Mini is a more fun car to drive. Prices aren't far enough apart for that to be a big deal. The Mini will retain value better than any other car you listed.

[lastcall190]

My friend and his brother have WRXs. The former still has his and it has run absolutely great, and with blizzaks on his winter wheels it gets through basically anything from November till whenever (also gets mid 20s regularly with his MPG and ). His brother just sold his with 160k miles bone stock and got $6k for it. So the resale is there, and he just did gas/tires/oil with it, in fact it may have still been on the stock clutch. They are nice cars. Don't have any opinions on the others, besides I have been told by any mechanic I've spoken with to stay the F away from VW... The Mazdas are nice, a coworker has one and it's a nice car, but kinda $$ in my opinion... good luck. Wish I had more "first hand" opinion but I don't.

-J

[BigAls87Z28]

Cobalt SS comes in a Sedan with all the equipment that the coupe has. While its not a hatch, its a decent sized compact.

Only thing I can think of would be the Volvo C30. VERY stylish...very cool.

[NJSPEEDER]

Yeah, I dunno what Subaru uses for their clutches, my bro is at about 75K on his stocker and all, and I mean all, of his driving is through town. Living in Ewing and working in Hamilton, the only time that thing sees the highway is if he drives to his friends house in Yardley. lol

[BonzoHansen]

This is good, keep it coming.

I agree with Al that new subaru's are but fugly. :lol:
As far as as the Cobalt goes, I don't think I can haul stuff in it, well comfortably at least. Cars I listed have a decent amount of space in the back so I can throw my snowboard in there and go riding, not sure if i can do that in a Cobalt. But I will look at it, can't hurt. Thanks for the suggestion.

So vw really sucks, huh :lol:

At least I got another vote for the Mini Copper (and nothing bad was said about it), I'm starting to like that car.

I believe Ms Diva loves her HHR. If hauling is your thing.

Of that list the Mini or the Suby is where I'd look first.

[sweetbmxrider]

stock subaru clutches can get over 100k pretty easily.

i'll say it again, stay away from the minis. they are a blast to drive but they suck in weather and are notorious for hydrolocking the motor because the intake is poorly designed.

[BigAls87Z28]

OHHHH YEAH!! **** how did I forget it!!
HHR SS!! 220hp with the auto, 260 with the manual. You can get all the same things from the Cobalt on the HHR including the big Brems and suspension. You can also get the optional digital display to show a bunch of info. I got to play with it at Indy, very cool!!!


http://cache.jalopnik.com/cars/assets/resources/2007/08/2008_Chevy_HHR_SS.jpg


http://image.motortrend.com/f/9474868/112_0708_04z+2008_chevrolet_HHR_SS+interior.jpg

[Tsar]

Some great responces here while I was in class!



For me the debate would have to be between the 3 Speed and the Mini S. The 3 offers a little bit more space, the Mini is a more fun car to drive. Prices aren't far enough apart for that to be a big deal. The Mini will retain value better than any other car you listed.
I thought about that, and really liked that fact because somewhere down the line I will get rid of it :lol:


Only thing I can think of would be the Volvo C30. VERY stylish...very cool.I like the design of the C-30 but there are only handful of Volvo dealers in NNJ and they only have a couple in stock and their prices are pushing 30k. I know they can bring me one from god knows where but I might be buying a car on my next trip home. So they need to have one in stock. But I do kinda like the car, well at least from the pictures.


Of that list the Mini or the Suby is where I'd look first.Well Mini if the first one on my list so far. I used to love Subaru's but they have made their cars exceptional fugly in 08 and 09, almost like they did it on purpose :lol: That's the only thing that prevent the WRX to be higher on my list, I know the car will be good, but every time I see it I hurl a little.



i'll say it again, stay away from the minis. they are a blast to drive but they suck in weather and are notorious for hydrolocking the motor because the intake is poorly designed.
Quick google shows that the intake is on top of the engine, how big of a puddle are we talking about? :lol:
I had a dsm before and my intake was a few inches of the ground so I'm not too worried. THanks for the concern though. :)

OHHHH YEAH!! **** how did I forget it!!
HHR SS!! 220hp with the auto, 260 with the manual. You can get all the same things from the Cobalt on the HHR including the big Brems and suspension. You can also get the optional digital display to show a bunch of info. I got to play with it at Indy, very cool!!!


http://cache.jalopnik.com/cars/assets/resources/2007/08/2008_Chevy_HHR_SS.jpg


http://image.motortrend.com/f/9474868/112_0708_04z+2008_chevrolet_HHR_SS+interior.jpg I'll take a look at it when I'm looking at the cobalt, but its not really the type of a car I'm looking for. It has more serious over tone to it instead of fun to drive :lol:

[Tsar]

"one recent development had forced my hand"


There's no mini-vitals coming is there?

God no, the recent development would be my car is not working properly or at least not to my liking (reason why its for sale). In an awesome condition it would cost about 4k (kbb), I need like a grand to fix it. That's 25% of the value of this beast. I would rather spend that extra grand on something new and reliable, something that I can drive around and not think about repairs :lol:

Plus I was gonna buy a car when I graduate anyways, I was just hoping to get an Evo X, but now I can't. So yea, new car - one of the next times I go to jersey.

[CHRIS67]

Cobalt SS comes in a Sedan with all the equipment that the coupe has. While its not a hatch, its a decent sized compact.

Only thing I can think of would be the Volvo C30. VERY stylish...very cool.


I have the Cobalt sport, comes with the 2.4L not the 2.2 and with the SS suspension. Lots of fun to drive and gets 32 MPG. Really to small for long drives for more that 2 people though.

[MonmouthCtyAntz]

Out of those cars I think the GTI is pretty sharp.

[Knipps]

Reading through the thread all I was thinking was HHR SS. It definitely seems to fit the bill for what you're looking for. Of the the ones you listed though, I'd say Mini or Mazda. I've always wanted to drive a Mini and throw it around :lol:

[Teds89IROC]

Reading through the thread all I was thinking was HHR SS. It definitely seems to fit the bill for what you're looking for. Of the the ones you listed though, I'd say Mini or Mazda. I've always wanted to drive a Mini and throw it around :lol:

my thoughts exactly

[Tsar]

Out of those cars I think the GTI is pretty sharp.
Any particular reason? I need factual statements! :lol: You are picking a car that everyone in this thread said was crap. What's your thinking? :mrgreen:

[Tsar]

Reading through the thread all I was thinking was HHR SS. It definitely seems to fit the bill for what you're looking for. Of the the ones you listed though, I'd say Mini or Mazda. I've always wanted to drive a Mini and throw it around :lol:

my thoughts exactly

But it looks like a big WAGON, and I dunno if it will go around turns without flipping over. :lol: I'm particularly scared of SUV for that very reason :rofl:

[Knipps]

But it looks like a big WAGON, and I dunno if it will go around turns without flipping over. :lol: I'm particularly scared of SUV for that very reason :rofl:

But it's low! and you can go even lower. I haven't flipped my 05 Dakota yet (almost) so I don't think you'll have a problem flipping the HHR

[79CamaroDiva]

I believe Ms Diva loves her HHR. If hauling is your thing.

Of that list the Mini or the Suby is where I'd look first.

OHHHH YEAH!! **** how did I forget it!!
HHR SS!! 220hp with the auto, 260 with the manual. You can get all the same things from the Cobalt on the HHR including the big Brems and suspension. You can also get the optional digital display to show a bunch of info. I got to play with it at Indy, very cool!!!


http://cache.jalopnik.com/cars/assets/resources/2007/08/2008_Chevy_HHR_SS.jpg


http://image.motortrend.com/f/9474868/112_0708_04z+2008_chevrolet_HHR_SS+interior.jpg

Absolutely! And I also didn't like the HHR when it was first mentioned. Now I can't believe I didn't originally consider it. And the HHR SS has AMAZING reviews from people that own it. Steve was even considering one when we were looking at mine, if he could get an HHR SS Panel. I just wish it was in AWD, that would be the only thing that I would trade mine in for. The amount of storage in this thing is ridiculous.

But it looks like a big WAGON, and I dunno if it will go around turns without flipping over. :lol: I'm particularly scared of SUV for that very reason :rofl:

what it looks liek and what it drives like are very different. It's the same exact platform as the Cobalt, so it handles like one.

I also would suggest looking at Saturn's Astra. I loved it when I drove it. The HHR edged it out just a little bit because of storage room, but its a very nice looking, great driving car. Jerk0ff j0n just got one.

[Knipps]

Absolutely! And I also didn't like the HHR when it was first mentioned. Now I can't believe I didn't originally consider it. And the HHR SS has AMAZING reviews from people that own it. Steve was even considering one when we were looking at mine, if he could get an HHR SS Panel. I just wish it was in AWD, that would be the only thing that I would trade mine in for. The amount of storage in this thing is ridiculous.

I'm not sure if he didn't get one because they didn't make one, but they do now!

[sweetbmxrider]

the air intake duct comes from down under. also they run pricey to repair.

http://www.dtmpower.net/forum/attachments/mini-cooper/22364d1055460729-got-my-mini-madness-intake-today-img_486.jpg

[Knipps]

the air intake duct comes from down under. also they run pricey to repair.

I was looking into this and it seems like:
1. the problem was only with the base mini (non-S)
2. it wasn't that often
3. they were having the problem years ago, maybe something's been done about it by now?

[BonzoHansen]

well i have seen many cases where people drove mini's through big puddles and seized the engine. i would stay away. the intake is designed to perfectly suck up a bucket full no problem. like jeff was saying, vw's seem to be hit or miss. when they miss, they cost most money. can't say anything against the mazda or dodge and of course the subaru is butt looking but the drive train holds up great and the stock bottom end can handle good boost. all wheel is always a plus!BMW 540s had that issue when they 1st arrived. IIRC the intake was down near the RF wheel. It seems there is no water in germany. :) ...I digress....

I'll add to my comments. I said Sub because of my experience in the bays, but that's pushing 8 years ago now. They were good cars. VW & Mazda ran hot or cold (total crap or great), Mits as well. I hate chryslers, you can keep them. I think the same idiots that thought aluminum home wiring was a good idea wires chryslers on the side. Minis didn't exist, but they look like fun to drive.

[CamaroGirlie]

my brother was gonna pick up a Mini Copper S but he couldnt fit in the car. He is 6'3" and 180 pounds...so if youre tall it prolly wouldnt be a good idea.

[WildBillyT]

my brother was gonna pick up a Mini Copper S but he couldnt fit in the car. He is 6'3" and 180 pounds...so if youre tall it prolly wouldnt be a good idea.

Strange. I fit fine at 6'3 235. But not in the back, that's for sure.

[Tru2Chevy]

my brother was gonna pick up a Mini Copper S but he couldnt fit in the car. He is 6'3" and 180 pounds...so if youre tall it prolly wouldnt be a good idea.

I'm 6' 4" and ~240lbs and I fit in my friend's '05 Mini S great.


Vitals - I would definitely grab the new Mini S. They are quick little cars, have a pretty good ride, and handle like they are on rails. Don't bother with any of the JCW upgrades though - way overpriced.

As for the comments about them not dealing with snow well....I can imagine they wouldn't with the low profile summer tires most of them wear, but my friend has driven his through plenty of snow on a set of snow tires that he has on the stock wheels and it's a nice stable ride without any surprises when driven in a reasonable manner.

- Justin

[Tsar]

I'm 6' 4" and ~240lbs and I fit in my friend's '05 Mini S great.


Vitals - I would definitely grab the new Mini S. They are quick little cars, have a pretty good ride, and handle like they are on rails. Don't bother with any of the JCW upgrades though - way overpriced.

As for the comments about them not dealing with snow well....I can imagine they wouldn't with the low profile summer tires most of them wear, but my friend has driven his through plenty of snow on a set of snow tires that he has on the stock wheels and it's a nice stable ride without any surprises when driven in a reasonable manner.

- JustinI was just gonna post that I know some tall people who have sat in the Mini and had no problems. But I'm 6' and 185 pounds so I do not foresee a problem.

Wasn't gonna bother w/ factory upgrades at this point, if...err, when I mod it I'll do it on my own :lol:

[TronsBird]

mini or wrx

[miketa95]

Why does everyone like minis...
Their so fugly.

[Mike]

about the gti, appearance is a matter of opinion, but i hate the current body style. and although i like vw, i wouldn't want to own one since its warranty was up....parts and labor seems to be very expensive when things go wrong on vw's...

the mini, i like them but it dosent seem it would fit your requirement on space?

the caliber..... cheap interior, probably slowest of the group...and who knows where chrysler will be in a few years.......

mazda...they seem cool, but my sisters bf had a regular Mazda three and went through 3 engines before they called it a lemon and gave him something else, apparently they have a plastic collar that the oil filter mounts too, and if the person doing the oil change is not careful it can crack and cause oil to exit the engine....not good.


the hhr is built on the same platform as the cobalt, so you shouldnt have any rollover problems lol. but like dodge, who knows where gm will be in a few years

[Tsar]

Why does everyone like minis...
Their so fugly.Matter of an opinion, and is not what is being discussed here.




the caliber..... cheap interior, probably slowest of the group...and who knows where chrysler will be in a few years.......


the hhr is built on the same platform as the cobalt, so you shouldnt have any rollover problems lol. but like dodge, who knows where gm will be in a few yearsThe caliber has the most horsepower (285) out of the group, how is it the slowest? Does everyone know something I don't? :lol:

Rollover thing - its not really about HHR in particular. I just have this irrational fear of an SUV rolling over while I'm driving it. I drive my moms Caddy SRX and every time I drive it I think it will be the last time :lol:

[NumberTwo]

Well it's time for me to sell my F-body and get something else. I was hoping to wait until graduation but one recent development has forced my hand. So my car is for sale (link in my sig) and I'm trying to research a fun to drive replacement.

I'm interested in them in this particular order (all new, no used):

Mini Cooper S
Dodge Caliber SRT-4
VW GTI
Subaru WRX
Mazda Speed 3

They are all in the same ball park, money wise, but I was wondering if you had any experience with any of them, or heard something bad/good, whatever. I want to know it all. If you have a car suggestion you can add it to the list, maybe I'll look at it.

Ok lets get to the talking part, :nod:

go go go
I only read a few replies but heres my .02.

The Mini is a BMW. Of what you mentioned that would be the top pick.

The Caliber IIRC is a SRT-4 Neon wrapped in a crappy interior/exterior. Horrible.

VAG is well... If you like elecrtical gremelins and or turbo problems thats the car for you.

The WRX is hideous, but reliable. But IMO you'll want to mod the piss out of it and its practicality will soon be thrown out the window.

Im on the fence with the Mazda. I hear stories almost as bad as the VW's. Me personally Id stay away.

Im kinda in the same boat you are and while Ill keep my 3rd gen , Im looking at the Cobalt SS like Al mentioned. Even the older Supercharged models are fun. Ive test drove both. The older SC SS's have the fun whine sound and are decently powered. GM also warranties the Stage 2 upgrade. They can boogie when needed. I will add that they do not feel fast but then again my Z feel like its stopped after 40 MPH but She turns numbers. Now the TC SS's. They're a whole new animal. The boost pillar gauge is replaced with an interactive LCD screen and they MOVE. IIRC they're good for a mid-high 13 sec pass out of the box. They come equipped with an optional LSD and the NO LIFT shift option (Pedal to the floor and shift away). The one I took out had 50 miles on it and I beat it like it owed me money. The Salesman was grabbing anything available and actually laughed at the end. They perform well and for the price... Its the best of all worlds. Mid-high 13's, 30 MPG and fun, fun fun!

[LTb1ow]

Cobalt SS have no mod future though. My friend has one, they are peppy. But other than a catback, there is no cheap mods to do. My .02cents.

[BigAls87Z28]

Plenty of mods for the LNF. A turbo direct injected motor, there is so much its not funny.

The HHR sure isnt an SUV, and the SS sure wont give you the feeling of flipping over. Between the SS's suspension, power, and grip of the tires, there wont be any of that. I tried at Indy. Body stays FLAT through curves.
Give it a shot. My only quips about the HHR is the outward visability. Small and tall windows can bother some.

The Caliber's performance is great, but its handilng and ride falls behind cars like the Mazdaspeed 3, and HHR SS.

[NumberTwo]

Cobalt SS have no mod future though. My friend has one, they are peppy. But other than a catback, there is no cheap mods to do. My .02cents.
What mod future do people expect? The SC's have Stage 2 kits that are GM warrantied and Stage 3 kits. The SS can (And Im talking turbo) obviously accept a bigger turbo. There are CAI/WAI's and BOV's available and with the cat back... What more do people want? If the OP and "Owners" expect more, any machine shop can tailor a head, cam or whatever to suit their needs but its all about what they want to spend. No real mod worth any time is cheap...

Me personally If Im looking to throw 25K away at a new car, big mods arent in my future. If they were, then Id buy a car in my class with the performance I want.

[LTb1ow]

Well take the fbod, for not that much you can go 11s. For a cobalt to go that fast, your looking at a lot of money. Thats all I was saying.

[TronsBird]

cobalts are sick though

idk, wrx would be your best bet, apearently reliable, quick, great aftermarket, good resale

[NumberTwo]

And with that, do not take the hit of a new car. Buy an older STI for 25K and mod/drive the snot out of it. Hell, dont take the hit of a new car period. 25K miles is WELL accepted as reasonably new, under warranty and full of fun.

[cdacda13]

IF you get a used STI or WRX (much sexier than the new ones), make sure to have it checked out. It was most likely beat on, especially STIs.

GTIs have fun little cars. A friend has one, gets great gas mileage, peppy, handles fine. The only problem is that its German, and parts are a balls to get. Hell, for antifreeze you have to go to the dealer to get.

[Tsar]

Obv. we arent talking about him buying a race car, he wants a fun and fast daily driver.
There is no need to talk about 11 sec rides and hanging the front tires.Yes indeed, Al is right. I do not want to have 9 sec. 1/4 miles track beast for my DD, which I will drive in inclement weather.

I was just talking about future mods, cause if I recall he said he would want to do some later on.... IDK.
I might mod it, but it will be DOWN the road. I don't wanna waste a brand new warranty because of some cat back or something silly like that. It's not worth it.

[NJSPEEDER]

I might mod it, but it will be DOWN the road. I don't wanna waste a brand new warranty because of some cat back or something silly like that. It's not worth it.

GMPP is supposed to be getting mroe active in that area for new car owners. Nothing fancy, just planning to offer already developed CAI's and cat backs and such rebadged by GMPP and approved to not void your factory warranty.

They have some stuff out for the trucks already that you can actually order and have installed right at the dealership then have the costs rolled right into the new car loan. It is a good idea, lets wait and see if they follow through with it.

[Jensend]

By all means avoid the Dodge Caliber. It's a hasty thrown together mish mash somewhat derived from the second gen Neon. It doesn't do justice to its blood lines in looks or performance. VWs are a nightmare to repair whether you do it yourself or pay the $$$$$ to someone else. The Mazda Speed 3 is the best bang for the buck out of the list you posted. It's well designed, has lots of space, gets reasonably good mileage and has unbelievable performance for a DD. One of the people in my OT group uses his in box stock form (including tires and brakes) and runs 2:29 at Watkins Glen. Then he loads up his gear and drives home. The car is like Jeckyl and Hyde- a beast on the track and a minivan alternative on the daily commute. Wish I could afford one for a DD. It would be a great backup for Z28 track car.

[bcgetfresh]

Out of your list I would go with the WRX but as other people have said take a look at the cobalt SS as well. They are fun cars and have decent size cargo room. You should also consider taking a look at a Scion tC too. They are similiar to the cobalt ss but much cheaper. They are good on gas, reliable (same motor as the camry) and cheap, I picked up a brand new 09 5spd for under 18k. Very comfortable and roomy on the inside even with me being 6'3 210.

[Tsar]

TC's just looks too boring :lol: But thanks!

[TronsBird]

tc's suck

i know 3 people who own them, and all 3 of them are douchebags, its no good

[Mike]

tc's suck

i know 3 people who own them, and all 3 of them are douchebags, its no good

excellent input

[maroman88]

deff a coby SS, i would loooove one... im not guna get into anything else lol

[bcgetfresh]

excellent input

:rofl:

[TronsBird]

ooooh, you guys rip on me, how cool

they make like 160 to the front wheels, they're slow, exspensive to mod, and they're cult following is full of douchebags

like, you might as well just get a new beatle

[jin1481]

WRX, all wheel drive, i think its a great looking hatch definitely better then the Speed3, All Wheel Drive! All kinds of room once you lay the back seats down. The only complaint i have about mine is that its not a WRX.

[WildBillyT]

ooooh, you guys rip on me, how cool

they make like 160 to the front wheels, they're slow, exspensive to mod, and they're cult following is full of douchebags

like, you might as well just get a new beatle

So the car sucks because other owners are douchebags?

[TronsBird]

no , they suck cause they make 161hp and cause they're exspensive to mod

the majority of owners being douchebags, thats just more incentive not to buy one

[BigAls87Z28]

no , they suck cause they make 161hp and cause they're exspensive to mod

the majority of owners being douchebags, thats just more incentive not to buy one

So, the HP and price of moddification is what makes it a bad choice?
tC just looks goofy, adn does not fit onto this list in any way shape or form.

[TronsBird]

yes, to me at least thats important

like, if mods we're cheap they wouldnt be that bad
its just they are exspensive and they're a "me too" car

[LTb1ow]

yes, to me at least thats important

like, if mods we're cheap they wouldnt be that bad
its just they are exspensive and they're a "me too" car

Oh? This is your thread? ......

[NJSPEEDER]

no , they suck cause they make 161hp and cause they're exspensive to mod

the majority of owners being douchebags, thats just more incentive not to buy one


How expensive are they to mod? Look on the Scion web site, most of the popular mods that people do can be done at the dealership before you take delivery and rolled into the loan. The mods are available through TRD and all support the factory warranty.

Cat backs, wheels, clutch, short shift, lower springs, coil overs, CAI, strut braces, and a variety of styling items all available right on the site.

As far as how the people are that you know have bought them, maybe it is time to consider a new group of friends if they bother you that much.

[bcgetfresh]

So, the HP and price of moddification is what makes it a bad choice?
tC just looks goofy, adn does not fit onto this list in any way shape or form.

how doesnt it? he has a GTI, mazda 3 and a minicooper on the list haha

[bcgetfresh]

no , they suck cause they make 161hp and cause they're exspensive to mod

the majority of owners being douchebags, thats just more incentive not to buy one

They are not expensive to mod at all lol. And the majority is the 3 people you know with them :lol:

[TronsBird]

well the kids who own them bitch about modding them constantly
(poor choice of info)
how much more power could you get from the factory mods?

[Tsar]

how doesnt it? he has a GTI, mazda 3 and a minicooper on the list haha
You must be a blind man...

[sweetbmxrider]

yeah like speeder said, they have factory mods that are covered by factory warranty. you can get a supercharger too. pretty slick for factory.

[BigAls87Z28]

how doesnt it? he has a GTI, mazda 3 and a minicooper on the list haha

Correction
He has a 2.0 Turbocharged GTI making 200hp (sad, really)
A 2.3 Turbocharged MS3 making 260hp
A 2.5 Turbocharged WRX making 260hp
A 1.6 Turbocharged Mini S making 160-180hp (cannot recall)
and we have been talking about the Cobalt SS and HHR SS that both make 260hp with a 2.0T motor.

So...how does the Corolla Coupe make it onto the list?
the tC is good car, but no where near to the caliber of cars on that list.

[LTb1ow]

You know what else comes with a SC factory???


A ZR1 :)

[BigAls87Z28]

You know what else comes with a SC factory???


A ZR1 :)

Yep...but about 4000 times more then what he wanted to spend.










So spend half of that and get a CTS-V!!!

[NJSPEEDER]

well the kids who own them bitch about modding them constantly
(poor choice of info)
how much more power could you get from the factory mods?

I highlighted the important word for you. For kids everything is expensive. That is part of being in high school. Old enough to work, still to young to win power ball.

I am sure the power comes up noticeably with the dealer installed mods. They are only around 2600 or 2700 lbs if memory serves, so even a conservative estimate of 20 more hp to the wheels would be substantial.

[Tsar]

You know what else comes with a SC factory???


A ZR1 :)You tell me where i can get one for 25k and I'll be there tomorrow! :lol:

Correction
He has a 2.0 Turbocharged GTI making 200hp (sad, really)
A 2.3 Turbocharged MS3 making 260hp
A 2.5 Turbocharged WRX making 260hp
A 1.6 Turbocharged Mini S making 160-180hp (cannot recall)
and we have been talking about the Cobalt SS and HHR SS that both make 260hp with a 2.0T motor.

So...how does the Corolla Coupe make it onto the list?
the tC is good car, but no where near to the caliber of cars on that list.Mini has 172hp @ 26xx pounds. :nod:

[BigAls87Z28]

Roger that.

I understand you wanted room...but if you didnt, Sky/Solstice perhaps? They make a wagonesque type hard top for them!

[Tsar]

So spend half of that and get a CTS-V!!!
Funny... That's is what my mother said.... asked her if she's gonna loan me the other 30ish thousand to get it and she said she can't give me that much :lol:

[Tsar]

Roger that.

I understand you wanted room...but if you didnt, Sky/Solstice perhaps? They make a wagonesque type hard top for them!
Paul and someone else on this board said they were horrendous in the snow. I thought about one before he said it.

[BigAls87Z28]

Funny... That's is what my mother said.... asked her if she's gonna loan me the other 30ish thousand to get it and she said she can't give me that much :lol:


What a bitch...ahahahah kidding of course.


Why dont you just go do what you want to do....

Camaro LT. 300hp, 6spd manual or automatic, and fold down seats with pass through.

[TronsBird]

i dont know if you previously stated it, but are you leaning towards pre-owned or brand new?

[Tsar]

What a bitch...ahahahah kidding of course.


Why dont you just go do what you want to do....

Camaro LT. 300hp, 6spd manual or automatic, and fold down seats with pass through.I would, I wanted too, but the problem is my car is broken right NOW. And I can't even get to the grossery store to buy damn milk and some other food. (wal mart is about 7 miles away). Can't wait until it comes out unfortunately.
P.S. i dont wanna fix it because to me thats money thrown away that I could use for a down payment.
i dont know if you previously stated it, but are you leaning towards pre-owned or brand new?New. Pre-owned doesn't offer as good of APR, in most cases anyways.

[TronsBird]

hmm

i dont know if you like them, but ive driven the new a4's and beaten the hell out of my friends A3 s-line

but, audi has some good cars out, quick stock, theres room, great performance all year round if you have quattro

might be a little exspensive , but, they're great cars

[Tsar]

hmm

i dont know if you like them, but ive driven the new a4's and beaten the hell out of my friends A3 s-line

but, audi has some good cars out, quick stock, theres room, great performance all year round if you have quattro

might be a little exspensive , but, they're great cars

Love the new A4, do not love the price tag of it (33k+ for the lowest of the low). Same thing was with the CTS, I think most people who have been here for awhile can say that I was a Caddy nutswinger, CTS sedan was one of my favorites and the coupe - well I was waiting for it to come out so I can nutswing some more. The plan was to buy one of those after I graduate, get a job, and know how much I make. My car broke down and Im tired of utting money into it, so I need a new one otherwise I can't go to interview & won't have a job :lol: Not to mention I cant go buy food right now...

So yea new car coming soon...

[TronsBird]

my friend got a fully loaded a3 for 35k

so, just shop around for what options you'd want/need and what it'll come out to

[Knipps]

Cheap beater til the Camaro comes out is always an option

[Tsar]

my friend got a fully loaded a3 for 35k

so, just shop around for what options you'd want/need and what it'll come out to
35k is not <25k :lol:
Cheap beater til the Camaro comes out is always an optionI view cheap beaters as a waste of money, in a situation like this. That's another grand that I will not, most likely, get back. :lol:


Edit** plus there will be mark up, as dealers usually like to do on a brand new, highly anticipated car. And honestly I'm not sure how I feel about buying a first year model. :shrug:

[BigAls87Z28]

Im with you on that, but more for additional features that will show up for the 2011 model. Im also tossing the idea around of swinging the extra whatever for the Z28....

[79CamaroDiva]

Have you thought about the new saabs? Steve and I test drove the 93 and 95 and I gotta say I was pretty impressed. Al can probably help here bc I forget what the performance package was called but they were very nice inside and out, as well as awd

[Mike]

aero?

[Tsar]

Have you thought about the new saabs? Steve and I test drove the 93 and 95 and I gotta say I was pretty impressed. Al can probably help here bc I forget what the performance package was called but they were very nice inside and out, as well as awd
I'd like to own a Turbo X, but every new Saab I saw on their website was over my budget :shrug:

[BigAls87Z28]

Have you thought about the new saabs? Steve and I test drove the 93 and 95 and I gotta say I was pretty impressed. Al can probably help here bc I forget what the performance package was called but they were very nice inside and out, as well as awd

Only Saabs that are AWD are the 9-3 TurboX, the 9-7x and the upcoming 9-4x.

[qwikz28]

Well it's time for me to sell my F-body and get something else. I was hoping to wait until graduation but one recent development has forced my hand. So my car is for sale (link in my sig) and I'm trying to research a fun to drive replacement.

I'm interested in them in this particular order (all new, no used):

Mini Cooper S
Dodge Caliber SRT-4
VW GTI
Subaru WRX
Mazda Speed 3

They are all in the same ball park, money wise, but I was wondering if you had any experience with any of them, or heard something bad/good, whatever. I want to know it all. If you have a car suggestion you can add it to the list, maybe I'll look at it.

Ok lets get to the talking part, :nod:

go go go

i didn't read through the thread but this is my contribution:

MCS- great car, hard to find new because of demand, this would be my choice. Resale value alone is reason enough to buy.

Dodge Caliber- lol but can be had at a steal of a price. i will call this the value of the bunch

VW GTI- gonna be redesigned soon. VW has admitted to its quality failings and many are being lemoned. i know where you can get a good, female driven, used one of these ;)

WRX- this car has serious engine issues. check subie forums for more details

MS3- recently redesigned. redesign is ugly. interior is cheesy but boy is it fast! an amazing car in my opinion. i would buy this over the MCS if speed was a concern. but its close between those two.

Cobalt SS- best performer among all choices, but boy racer looks and crummy interior kill it. i would get it if all around performance was the only concern. but the acceleration fo the ms3 and the handling of the mcs is better

civic si- have you considered this car? definitely the best car for the commuter. light and fun yet still reliable and efficient

thats it. thank you

[Mike]

true......the new si in both coupe and sedan versions are pretty nice.....as is the accord coupe...tsx used to be nice until they decided to model the grill after a mach3 razor

[Tsar]

Looked at Astra's - didn't like the interior. Exterior was alright.
Looked at the HHR - I couldn't get over the big wagon wheels look :lol:
Didn't bother looking at the GTI - you guys blasted it with crap
Couldn't find a WRX for <27000 so within reasonable distance from my house, so I didn't bother with it.



I'm picking my car up shorty though ;)




Jake - Civic Si was my last resort option :lol:

[BigAls87Z28]

O RLY? I have a feeling its going to be small in nature

[qwikz28]

the mini is an excellent car. if thats what you got, you made a good choice :)

[Frosty]

[QUOTE=cbrrmike;541204tsx used to be nice until they decided to model the
grill after a mach3 razor[/QUOTE]

LOL@the mach3 razor comment...funny but accurate.

[Savage_Messiah]

without reading pages 3 and 4... my dad had a mazda 3 (not speed) as a rental car recently... I felt like I was trapped inside a tiny egg when I had to move it.

[BigAls87Z28]

All of Acura's grills are horrible...I dont know wtf they are thinking.

[Tsar]

O RLY? I have a feeling its going to be small in nature:nod:

the mini is an excellent car. if thats what you got, you made a good choice :):nod:


I love driving it! :nod:

[qwikz28]

pictures.

[Knipps]

pictures.

:nod:

ttiwwp

[JL8Jeff]

:nod:

:nod:


I love driving it! :nod:

How is the room in it for you? I know I would have no problem fitting in one for a dd. And did you get the turbo I assume?

[Mike]

How is the room in it for you? I know I would have no problem fitting in one for a dd. And did you get the turbo I assume?

i think its a supercharger

[Tsar]

How is the room in it for you? I know I would have no problem fitting in one for a dd. And did you get the turbo I assume?Yea I got the turbo version. As far as the space goes - I was hesitant about Mini's at first, in a way I'm used to driving the SRX and it is certainly bigger than a mini. However, when I sat in a cooper there was plenty of space, in fact the seat was all the way back and I barely could reach the pedals... I'm 6', 185lbs and I feel like the seats were made for me :lol: I find it very comfortable, at least so far.

Total miles in two days ~ 260 :lol:

i think its a supercharger
2002 - 2006 are supercharged, 2007+ are Turbo.



Here are some pics, crappy ones. I took the just before leaving so yea... I need alex or noah to take my pics. :lol:

I think this key is cool, i don't. It's just different, I guess.
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3479/3244539389_129b397213.jpg?v=0
The light
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3300/3245365086_2ae856cebb.jpg?v=0
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3319/3245364120_eebfac509c.jpg?v=0
I wish the shift knob from my T/A would fit this thing....
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3521/3244538617_47dc6dfeb0.jpg?v=0


Ill get better pictures sometime in the spring...

[Mike]

the angle makes it look long? its not a clubman is it?

oh and thanks on the forced induction enlightenment above :)

[BigAls87Z28]

Its funny, today I picked up the new issue of Motor Trend, and they did an 8 car comparo, using all the cars you picked including the Cobalt SS, Caliber SRT4, but had the Mini Clubman S, not the regular Mini.

Rankings went as such
1: GTI
2: Cobalt SS
3: Mazdaspeed 3
4: WRX
5: Civic Si
6: Mitsui Lancer Ralliart
7: Mini Clubman S
8: Caliber SRT4

[Tsar]

Nahh, it's just my picture taking skill... It's lacking today. It a Mini Cooper S.

[Tsar]

Its funny, today I picked up the new issue of Motor Trend, and they did an 8 car comparo, using all the cars you picked including the Cobalt SS, Caliber SRT4, but had the Mini Clubman S, not the regular Mini.

Rankings went as such
1: GTI
2: Cobalt SS
3: Mazdaspeed 3
4: WRX
5: Civic Si
6: Mitsui Lancer Ralliart
7: Mini Clubman S
8: Caliber SRT4
Well damn, should have went with a GTI! :lol:




I like my car, so I'm satisfied.

[Mike]

its sweet man have fun and good luck with it

[ar0ck]

Nice color Vitals, good luck with it!

[Tru2Chevy]

good luck Vitals, glad you're happy with the Mini.

Not that I'm trying to get rid of you or anything, but check out http://www.northamericanmotoring.com - good mini forum.

- Justin

[Tsar]

Thanks for the well wishes!


Justin, I'm already a member there, that's where I did my research about the car. :nod: Thanks, but you will still be seeing me here!

[Tru2Chevy]

Lol.....I told you I wasn't trying to ditch you, just trying to help :p

- Justin