I had an IM conversation with Mom last night, where I got hassled for still owning my 91 Camry. It's got < 120K miles on it, so it's still in good shape. For a daily driver that gets all the boring daily commute miles, it's still fine. However, it is almost 14 years old, and lacks most modern safety features such as ABS and Airbags.
What should I replace it with? Here are my requirements (in order):
1) Have to be able to afford it - Under $40K (preferably under $25K, but budget isn't solidified)
2) Seats 4 - Doesn't have to be a sedan, but that's preferred
3) Safe - doesn't need to be a tank, but I don't want a Pinto
4) Reliable - gotta be a daily driver that I can count on
5) Style - I'm not driving a minivan or a Yugo
6) Fuel Economy - Gets at least 20MPG, preferably 30MPG (don't like financing the Saudis)
7) Performance - I've already got the fun car, but I don't want something that handles like a shopping cart.
The list is all over the place, but here it is (in alpha order):
Acura TL
Acura TSX
BMW 3-series (unlikely though)
Infiniti G35
Lexus IS300
Lotus Elise
Mazda 6
Subaru WRX (I don't really like the looks and unavailability of leather)
Toyota Pickup Truck?
Volvo S40
Volvo S60 (AWD is too expensive though)
OK, the Lotus isn't really on the list, but one can dream.
Help! Alternative suggestions appreciated!
Comments (5)
My suggestions:
1. Altima - I can't figure out which requirement it doesn't fit, so I don't see why it isn't on your list.
2. A Tacoma
3. Either Acura, I'd have to do more investigating to recommend one over the other.
4. What about the Saab (92X I think?) - sportier than the WRX but again, meets your requirements
For the rest:
BMW 3-series - everyone has them, be different
Infiniti G35 - maybe next on above my list
Lexus IS300 - over-priced for value
Lotus Elise - uh why?
Mazda 6 - blah
Subaru WRX - also too popular amongst people I know and I can't take another
Any Volvo - nice looking, but too pricey for value, I'd bet on your having maint issues with it.
Posted by Joy | August 28, 2004 1:54 PM
Posted on August 28, 2004 13:54
You may already know this, but:
Saab 92X = WRX.
I'm going through some similar decisions at the moment. I've about decided to sell my Evo in favor of something cheaper, because I don't really drive enough to justify the expense of such a high-maint car.
With that in mind, I'm looking mostly at Mazdas because I can get the S-plan hookup from Nick. I optioned out a 3 sport wagon and found that I could get ABS, airbags, and even Xenon for
Posted by Adam | August 31, 2004 7:23 PM
Posted on August 31, 2004 19:23
I knew about the 92x and suggested it because he didn't care for the WRX. Jane likes hers so far.
And talk to me before you buy any Ford product. Please let me stop you. :)
Posted by Joy | August 31, 2004 11:26 PM
Posted on August 31, 2004 23:26
What about the new Subaru legacy for 05? The car got a total redesign and is actually pretty spiffy. With a detuned STi powertrain it's fast too. My Outback has 154K miles and is still going strong.
However, I would also love to push many of our fine Ford products (ignore Joy). The Mazda 6 is quite nice, but it's due for a total update in 2 years. The Mazda 3 is based on the global C1 platform which means it has Mazda powertrain, ford suspension, and volvo safety... truly the best deal we have in terms of technology/performance. I'd get the hatch for the added versatility (you do have an S2K after all, and I like the chic styling of the 5 door).
Definitely take a look at the new S40/V50 volvos, they are also based on C1 and quite fast with the turbo. I'd pick an awd model, however, the fwd tends to have issues when you exceed 200 hp. If you want an S60R with 300 hp AND awd, I can get you the discount so that it ends up being 36K. You can even pick it up in stockholm if you like.
Posted by nick | September 17, 2004 11:56 AM
Posted on September 17, 2004 11:56
Thx for the suggestions everyone. I looked at the Subaru, and my main issues are that they look a tad too pedestrian (less sporty than the Volvo!) and I hate the hood scoop. I'll have to see a legacy up close, maybe I'll change my mind. I don't want anything GM, so that nixes SAAB.
I like the S40, but 218 HP for the T5 AWD? That's seems kinda wimpy. Hmm, I have to drive one and see.
The Mazda 3 looks too teeny, but I'll check it out as well.
Posted by Audiophile | September 18, 2004 10:20 AM
Posted on September 18, 2004 10:20