New car time again! 20-25k suggestions?

[funkedelic2]

Hey guys, I am looking for another car again. I have gotten some pretty good advice and solid opinions on here from other members in the past so I figured I would see what you guys think of the cars I have in mind or see if I look into any suggestions I get.

The car will be more of a toy then a daily driver. I have a daily which I will use for winter and commuting to and from work. Whatever I buy still needs to be practical. I'm not looking for just a weekend driver or a track car, However, I still want to get something that's relatively fast and fun to drive.

In order of importance, these are the things I'm looking for in my next ride

1. Reliability. (Looking to get at least 60,000kms without major repairs)
2. Performance
3. Aesthetics
4. Luxury
5. Fuel efficiency
6. Features
7. Build quality/materials


I don't like American cars, so please don't suggest a cts, corvette or srt anything. I am looking for either a German car or a Japanese car. I am very fond of BMW as most of you know.

Looking for something around 16-25 tops. Would like to get something no older then 2003. Not really sure if I want a coupe or sedan but open to both right now.

So far I have considered

- 335i (previously owned)
- G37
- E46 M3 (previously owned)
- 08+ WRX
- C class MB
- Lexus IS350

I have only driven the cars listed that I previously owned and really loved both cars which is why I am considering them again. I have thought about branching out and trying something new though. What are your guys thoughts? I will most likely be doing just light mods. Nothing crazy and more then likely no performance mods.

[jdmXSI]

What about a used EVO 8/ 9? AWD(just because you mentioned a WRX), 4 doors, 5 seats and 300hp. Not sure about reliability on those though.

[A2VR6]

B7 S4?

[KRyn]

Originally posted by jdmXSI
What about a used EVO 8/ 9? AWD(just because you mentioned a WRX), 4 doors, 5 seats and 300hp. Not sure about reliability on those though.


Good luck landing a mint Evo 9 for $25,000. I tried, tax in cost would be more around $32,000.00. Also it sounds like he is more interested in luxury and build quality.

[Twin_Cam_Turbo]

You could probably throw 04-06 STi on that list.

[coldmind]

Scion FR-S?

[Canmorite]

Originally posted by Twin_Cam_Turbo
You could probably throw 04-06 STi on that list.

Defintely can, but the ride quality is a lot harsher than those sport/lux coupes listed, along with fewer tech comforts. That said, wouldn't trade mine :poosie:

[realazy]

A slightly different option would be the Saab 9-3.

The latest generation 9-3 Turbo X is actually quite interesting with the 280hp xwd.

[Twin_Cam_Turbo]

Don't buy a Saab, just don't.

[4doorj]

s2000. But I'm biased haha

[NoMoreG35]

Originally posted by 4doorj
s2000. But I'm biased haha

:thumbsup:

[93VR6]

04 and up 545i?

[gpomp]

Originally posted by A2VR6
B7 S4? His #1 priority is reliability and you suggest an Audi? :rofl:

[Skidro]

What about a newer Toyota MR-S from the states?

[mo_money2supe]

Originally posted by gpomp
His #1 priority is reliability and you suggest an Audi? :rofl:

Now, now, when I compare my B7 S4 to a turbo'd civic, The S4 is significantly more reliable! I'm sure you can relate!

[Skyline_Addict]

Used Acura TSX?

[heavyD]

Originally posted by gpomp
His #1 priority is reliability and you suggest an Audi? :rofl:

Well he said he's fond of BMW so poor reliability is par for the course.

[A2VR6]

Originally posted by gpomp
His #1 priority is reliability and you suggest an Audi? :rofl:

Hey it's not like I suggested a B5 S4 :rofl:

As far as I know the 4.2 V8 doesn't have a ton of problems with it other than the coil pack issue.

[A2VR6]

fffffuuu double post.

[redline]

After owning a 335i and E46 M3 the G37 will be a huge let down, depands how tall you are but the IS350 is very small interier and the lexus traction control system takes all the fun out of that car.

thought about a Z4/M?

[Sugarphreak]

...

[zipdoa]

Hahaha Age wasn't a criteria for you...

Audi RS2!

http://www.pistonheads.com/pics/news/18810/front.jpg

And here's why:

http://www.pistonheads.com/doc.asp?c=161&i=18810

[gpomp]

Originally posted by Sugarphreak
1. Reliability. (Looking to get at least 60,000kms without major repairs)
2. Performance
3. Aesthetics
4. Luxury
5. Fuel efficiency
6. Features
7. Build quality/materials


So, I hate to break it to you, but if this list is in order from most important to least, you are left with a single choice: Acura NSX with the Lexus ISF being a close second. You forgot the price range of 16-25k...

[Disoblige]

Originally posted by funkedelic2

Looking for something around 16-25 tops. Would like to get something no older then 2003.

[Skyline_Addict]

Originally posted by gpomp
You forgot the price range of 16-25k...

I think what he's trying to get at is that the OP is asking for a lot for $16-25k.

[Redlyne_mr2]

07 335xi

[colinxx235]

Originally posted by Redlyne_mr2
07 335xi


I thought the 07s are the problem filled year??

[funkedelic2]

Originally posted by colinxx235



I thought the 07s are the problem filled year??

Hpfp issue but there was a recall on them I believe. I had a 2008 and never had issues but in terms of reliability the 335i is not the greatest. I was lucky to never have any issues with mine.

Some decent suggestions so far, I will have to do some more research and possibly test drive a few of these cars. The max budget is 25 but I could stretch to 30 if I find something I really like. I didn't consider an sti or Evo before because I didn't think a newer one was within that price range. I don't want a high km car either. Ride quality isn't a huge issue. The m3 is far from comfortable and I could deal with it everyday. Nothing a set of kw v3's can't fix!

[r3ccOs]

http://www.valentinevolvo.com/preownedvehicle.aspx?lng=2&id=8c06a6e9-d5f4-4884-ac64-a0b70074f747

Volvo S40 T5 loaded...
same engine in older Ford Focus ST (5 cyl turbo 230hp)
lots of aftermarket support
Polestar eligable factory tune to 250hp
low k (I think 25k km)
160k km limited warranty over the next 6 years through their pre-own system

24,423 km | $26,600

is used... always negotiable

[Redlined_8000]

G37x coupe or sedan... Great cars with AWD 330hp very reliable. You might be pushing over the 25k limit, but I dont think you can go wrong with one.
Second choice is the 335xi

[ddduke]

Originally posted by 93VR6
04 and up 545i?

This.

OR

Since you can stretch your self to about 30 then I'm sure one of these 3 can be had for that price:

http://alberta.kijiji.ca/c-cars-vehicles-cars-trucks-2006-BMW-M5-Sedan-W0QQAdIdZ424351692
http://alberta.kijiji.ca/c-cars-vehicles-cars-trucks-2006-BMW-M5-Sedan-W0QQAdIdZ419197546
http://alberta.kijiji.ca/c-cars-vehicles-cars-trucks-M5-loaded-W0QQAdIdZ408556382

Since you're an obvious bmw fanboy then this would be right up your alley. This was one of my favorite cars to drive and the performance is unbeatable at this price range (for going non domestic that is). If it wasn't for the fact that my old lady drives the sedan more often then I do I would have gone with the m5 over my current infiniti when I upgraded from my 530.

[r3ccOs]

Originally posted by ddduke


This.

OR

Since you can stretch your self to about 30 then I'm sure one of these 3 can be had for that price:

http://alberta.kijiji.ca/c-cars-vehicles-cars-trucks-2006-BMW-M5-Sedan-W0QQAdIdZ424351692
http://alberta.kijiji.ca/c-cars-vehicles-cars-trucks-2006-BMW-M5-Sedan-W0QQAdIdZ419197546
http://alberta.kijiji.ca/c-cars-vehicles-cars-trucks-M5-loaded-W0QQAdIdZ408556382

Since you're an obvious bmw fanboy then this would be right up your alley. This was one of my favorite cars to drive and the performance is unbeatable at this price range (for going non domestic that is). If it wasn't for the fact that my old lady drives the sedan more often then I do I would have gone with the m5 over my current infiniti when I upgraded from my 530.

my friend would beg to differ how its good on gas and how reliable the SMG transmissions is...

G37's with AWD and low K's are late models are to be had around this price point, and lets face it... the VQ engine is reliable, effecient, and has the bells and whistles

just doesn't feel as nice as a BMW, Merc, VAG etc...

[ddduke]

Originally posted by r3ccOs


my friend would beg to differ how its good on gas and how reliable the SMG transmissions is...

G37's with AWD and low K's are late models are to be had around this price point, and lets face it... the VQ engine is reliable, effecient, and has the bells and whistles

just doesn't feel as nice as a BMW, Merc, VAG etc...

Well you can't have everything. There isn't a cheap, reliable, fuel efficient, performance vehicle that has tons of luxury features on the market, if there was then everyone would own one.

I still think these are great vehicles, maintenance costs are high but still an amazing value. It's way more car for the money and you don't look like every person in calgary getting a 328, c300 or g35 for 'status'.

[jaylo]

For your price range, I would stay with a BMW, say a 328i M Sport

$40k can open a lot of doors for the car that fits all your criteria

[max_boost]

VW GTI!

[dirtsniffer]

E39 m5!!!!

[Mitsu3000gt]

B7 S4 would be my #1 choice. When I had mine it didn't cause me a SINGLE issue, and I've recently spoken to the guy who bought it off me, and he has had zero issues. So, it's gone 6 years with not a single issue outside regular maintenance. Solid car, best-in-class interior, and amazing in the winter. Easily fits 4 adults.

The coil packs are a free of charge recall (at least mine were).

It is great for everything on your list except fuel efficient haha. I got around 400km to a 60L tank.

Definitely would be my pick off your list, and is as reliable as any of your other options except maybe the IS350.

My second choice would be a 2007+ G35s/G37s.

The earlier 335i's scare me a bit reliability-wise, but a well taken care of one is probably just fine.

[Graham_A_M]

Originally posted by r3ccOs


my friend would beg to differ how its good on gas and how reliable the SMG transmissions is...


Abso-fucking-lutely do not ever go with an SMG tranny. Their just like Communism & the rotary engine. They work great in theory, but not so much in real life. :nut:
I had nothing but incessant problems with mine, just incessant. The clutch went out at 110k km's too. That was a cool $2k to fix.

It was getting so bad I was going to pull out the SMG tranny and install a typical 6 speed out of a crashed car, but even then that swap would have been around $4-5k, so I just cut my losses and got rid of the car.

Too bad you're anti-domestic. I can think of tons of cars that would fit the bill, be extremely reliable and perform very well, yet be within your budget. :dunno:

[rizfarmer]

With reliability and desire for a low mileage car being top of your list (domestics excluded) only way to get what you want and actually stay within budget is something japanese or korean; that's right, Genesis coupe. Base model is even equiped with bluetooth/voice activated calling and 5-6 grand into the car could easily get you a 300whp street car (2.0T). Or 1st gen v6 models already make that kind of power out of the box. I would say G37 coupe but not going to find one in your budget.

You've been getting some great suggestions but to buy those cars within your budget you're looking at well over 100K already on the clock with major repairs/component replacement coming within the next 60K. However, for a cheaper toy to beat on, my suggestion would be to stretch the budget 5k and get a 2011 Mustang GT- drive one and your mind will be changed.

[ekguy]

don't they make an awd 4cyl turbo volvo?

The c30 or something like that?

Seen a couple super nice ones kicking around this summer.

[1RaZoR1]

2008 Acura TL Type-S 6speed manual would be a nice choice.

Decent ride all around. Practical and decent performance.

[sabad66]

Originally posted by ddduke


This.

OR

Since you can stretch your self to about 30 then I'm sure one of these 3 can be had for that price:

http://alberta.kijiji.ca/c-cars-vehicles-cars-trucks-2006-BMW-M5-Sedan-W0QQAdIdZ424351692
http://alberta.kijiji.ca/c-cars-vehicles-cars-trucks-2006-BMW-M5-Sedan-W0QQAdIdZ419197546
http://alberta.kijiji.ca/c-cars-vehicles-cars-trucks-M5-loaded-W0QQAdIdZ408556382

Since you're an obvious bmw fanboy then this would be right up your alley. This was one of my favorite cars to drive and the performance is unbeatable at this price range (for going non domestic that is). If it wasn't for the fact that my old lady drives the sedan more often then I do I would have gone with the m5 over my current infiniti when I upgraded from my 530.
Hmmm interesting..... did not know an M5 of this gen could be had for around 30. Must be because of the bad rep of the SMG tranny? Are 6 speed manuals around this price range too?

[ddduke]

Originally posted by sabad66

Hmmm interesting..... did not know an M5 of this gen could be had for around 30. Must be because of the bad rep of the SMG tranny? Are 6 speed manuals around this price range too?

The ones for around 30 are pretty rare, most are 36+ all the way up to around 50. I'm not sure but I think 6 speed may be cheaper because most people prefer smg/auto to it. I was looking at a super clean 06 m5 at south centre fine cars for $35000 a few months back, it was 6 speed and sat on the lot for a while, I'm pretty sure I could have got the price down by a fair bit, if it wasn't for the weird backstory I would have pulled the trigger.

[T-Dubbs]

we had an SMG(06 w/30,000kms) got it new and
6th gear blew out somehow and it was 15k to fix....
we were happy that it was covered under warranty.

they can be pricey to fix out of warranty ;)

[rizfarmer]

Originally posted by T-Dubbs
we had an SMG(06 w/30,000kms) got it new and
6th gear blew out somehow and it was 15k to fix....
we were happy that it was covered under warranty.

they can be pricey to fix out of warranty ;)

There's a reason why these high performance vehicles that cost 100Gr 5 years ago only worth 30 now.... Again does not fit in op's criteria of [low maintenance for next 60K]. Could potentially spend his entire purchase budget maintaining that car over 60K

[Team_Mclaren]

TL-S

[852VR6]

How about Volvo S60R / V70R? 5cyl Turbo 300hp sounds not bad, how are they for reliability? Prices are decent too

[r3ccOs]

Originally posted by 852VR6
How about Volvo S60R / V70R? 5cyl Turbo 300hp sounds not bad, how are they for reliability? Prices are decent too

I think these are so hot... but in all reality the 2.5 5 cyl pushed to 300hp in a R platform was too much for the engine, and reliablity is a issue with those (though the Focus RS was essentially this engine)

the V70 was discontinued in Canada, but in US and rest of world they continued to make a "newer" version of it with a T6 engine based on a 3.2L turbo inline 6 which also exists in the XC70 line that was retained here

S60 T5, S40 T5, V50 T5, C30 T5 all the lower pressure 2.5 t making 230-250hp
most available with haldex AWD

wife wants a XC60 T6 sooner than later

when push comes to shove... Japanese is likely the most reliable, European the most luxurious but its hard to achieve all these "wants" in that price point

for me... safety is also vital, and that steers me into the direction of a Volvo, Merc, VAG and BMW for this reason alone

http://calgary.kijiji.ca/c-cars-vehicles-cars-trucks-2006-Volvo-V70-R-Wagon-4D-W0QQAdIdZ420465734

is pretty hot though, low k, but it is an 06

[gpomp]

TL-S is the best answer so far

:winter:

[SkiBum5.0]

In my opinion you are going to give up a) reliability if you choose used and german, and b) fun to drive/handling if you choose japanese.

It's up to you to make the choice. The e46 M3 is amazing and depending on who the previous owner is should be reliable (remember that changing 4 o2 sensors is going to be ~ $600 + labour). That's called routine maintenance. Should be able to find an 03, low mileage for sub $25K

I would also suggest a late-build e39 M5. Post 2001 build have the VANOS issue resolved and it's a killer sleeper with a big backseat for (making) babies.

If you go the TL-S route, I'm sure they are reliable and fast but you still are left with FWD which in a weekend/toy car is no fun.

Final Answer: 03 e46 or e39 and take the $ saved and put it in an account for maintenance.

[heavyD]

How about Italian? Dodge Dart?

[Sugarphreak]

...

[flipstah]

Originally posted by ekguy
don't they make an awd 4cyl turbo volvo?

The c30 or something like that?

Seen a couple super nice ones kicking around this summer.

C30 doesn't come in AWD. Otherwise, that would've been sniped by me.

That glass hatch is teh sex. :drool:

You can get an NSX at ~$25-30k...

[clem24]

I'd say for $25k, you can easily get into a really nice 335i, but the reliability of that engine is always on the back of my mind. So instead I'd probably jump into an E60 545 or 550. Better yet, find a nice 04 or 05 545i 6MT for around $20k ish and save the $5 for maintenance. AFAIK, the 545 (and the engine) will be more reliable than the 335.

If maintenance isn't really much of an issue, I'd easily skip the E46 M3 and jump into an E39 M5. I still lust after those after seeing them on the street. By far still the best looking BMW ever created.

If new is what you're looking for, I'd stretch that budget a little and go for an FR-S or even a Focus ST (fine it's American but it's got Euro roots).

Perhaps a '10 GTI is in the cards too?

[funkedelic2]

BMW 5 series is too big for my liking. No family and I am use to a smaller car. I'm not a big guy at 5'10. FR-S is not my style. The interior seems so bland and it just doesn't speak to me at all. I guess it's meant to be the new ae86 but its not impressive to me in any way. I see it kinda as a new celica.

I've been considering a few options, I might just wait until spring anyway so the car doesn't sit in the garage all winter while paying insurance on it and not driving it. There's a few cars that were listed that I need to have a closer look at and test drive.

[AudiPWR]

I'm selling my Matte blue 135i.. 2008, 65,000km, stage 2 ecu, intake, 19" vmr wheels..

It's $30k though...

few pics.. http://forums.beyond.ca/st2/matte-blue-135i/showthread.php?s=&threadid=356602

[Skyline_Addict]

Originally posted by flipstah


You can get an NSX at ~$25-30k...

Ya a 1991, from the US with 150k miles on it...

[flipstah]

Originally posted by Skyline_Addict


Ya a 1991, from the US with 150k miles on it...

If it's immaculate and well-maintained... It's a dependable Honda that looks good and goes like stink. :love:

[Skyline_Addict]

Originally posted by flipstah


If it's immaculate and well-maintained... It's a dependable Honda that looks good and goes like stink. :love:

Not saying it wouldn't be worth the money, but for a car that spanned 15-years you do need to be somewhat specific on what you're getting for what you pay.