JCE's Car Hunt Thread 2.0

[JCE]

*update* 11/12/2009*

Edited the list...

================================

The other thread is almost 2 years old and doesn't reflect my current financial status. So, ideally I'd prefer the lowest possible monthly payment but still meeting my criteria. What I'm focusing on are mostly saloon/sedans, coupes and roadsters. My criteria are as follows...

Criteria:
-Newer than 1999^ (prefer 2003+) (some exceptions are listed)
-Less than 75k miles preferred but not mandatory
-Comfortable
-Must absolutely be reliable
-Routine maintenance shouldn't be too high but probably won't matter if I find a low mileage car or a car that is reliable
-Sticker price cannot exceed $12,000 before down payment/trade-in
-Must have a redeeming quality, something rare/exclusive and or be cool
-Must make a decent engine/exhaust noise

================================

The short list.

Pickup Truck:
2004-2005 Ford F150 (V8)

Saloons/Estate(s):
2006-2009 Ford Fusion V6 SEL
1995-1999 Nissan Maxima SE^
2002-2003 Nissan Maxima SE
2002-2005 Volvo S80 T6

Sportscars:
1994-2004 Mustang GT
1994-2004 Mustang GT convetible
1994-2001 Mustang Cobra
1998-2002 Chevrolet Camaro Z28/SS convertible
1998-2002 Pontiac Trans-Am convertible
2003-2005 Saab 9-3 convertible


I am liking the idea of a convertible but I am open to other things.

 

[EA11R]

Some of the cars in that list break your own rules. At first glance -literally- the S2000 and Focus can't work, as they have 4-cylinders.

EDIT: Also, those Mercedes epitomoze the era of poorly-built Mercedes; they're horrific, if customer polls show anything (Benz was like third from bottom of the list). Those Audis may or may not be relieable, but I don't really know so I can't pass judgement. But: Pretty much anything German will be shockingly expensive to maintain and repair. Looks like you can afford it, but you listed it in your criteria. Also, that Prelude is also a 2.2-litre four. And why is a Poniac Grand-Am on the same list as two Porsches? Banish it, pronto.

You really haven't thought this through. If you must give us a big list, why not make it at least vaguely follow your rules? Also, is there anything to stop us from adding to the list?

 

[homeforsummer]

I'd say that...

Criteria:
-Do not want any SUV, truck or van* (except the Infiniti FX)
-Newer than 1999 (prefer 2003+) (some exceptions)
-Less than 75k miles prefered
-Engine must be larger than 4cyl ...rules out the Prelude, S2000, Sentra and Focus
-Comfortable
-Must absolutely be reliable
-Routine maintenance shouldn't be too high but probably won't matter if I find a low mileage car ...rules out the Porsches, the V8/V12 BMWs, the V8/huge Mercedes and the Audi A8 (aluminium body, not cheap to fix)
-Sticker price cannot exceed $18,999 before down payment/trade-in
-Must have a redeeming quality, something rare/exclusive and or be cool ...rules out the Maxima and the normal A6
-Must make a decent engine/exhaust noise

That'd narrow the list down to this, and if you've not got much hope of finding the RS6 or S8 you may as well cross those off too unless you find one by fluke at the exact time you're car hunting:

2002-2004 Audi S6
2002-2005 Audi AllRoad Quattro (2.7T or V8)
2001-2003 BMW M3 coupe
1999-2004 Chevrolet Corvette (6spd w/Z51 pkg)
2006-2007 Dodge Magnum SRT-8
2006-2007 Dodge Charger R/T Daytona or SRT-8
2006-2008 Ford Fusion V6 SEL
2001 Ford Mustang Bullitt
2001-2004 Ford Mustang Cobra
2003-2004 Ford Mustang Mach 1
2003-2005 Infiniti G35 coupe
2003-2004 Infiniti FX
2003-2006 Lincoln LS V8 sport
2004-2007 Mercedes C-class (V6)
2003-2005 Nissan 350Z (Touring model)
2000-2002 Pontiac Trans-Am WS6
2004-2008 Volvo S60 (I5 Turbo)
2003-2006 Volvo S60 R
2001-2006 Volvo S80 (I6 Twin Turbo)

Of the above, the M3, Dodges and C-Class look the most tempting, and of those I'd put my money on the M3 offering you the most reliability and generally the most fun too. That said, if the car's sound is a priority in any way a V8 always beats an inline six in which case I'd have a nice Magnum.

Unfortunately I can't offer you practical advice on finance and the like, but if the E46 M3 really is a realistic proposition it seems to be the hardest to ignore of all the cars you listed taking your criteria into consideration.

 

[JCE]

Some of the cars in that list break your own rules. At first glance -literally- the S2000 and Focus can't work, as they have 4-cylinders.

EDIT: Also, those Mercedes epitomoze the era of poorly-built Mercedes; they're horrific, if customer polls show anything (Benz was like third from bottom of the list). Those Audis may or may not be relieable, but I don't really know so I can't pass judgement. But: Pretty much anything German will be shockingly expensive to maintain and repair. Looks like you can afford it, but you listed it in your criteria. Also, that Prelude is also a 2.2-litre four. And why is a Poniac Grand-Am on the same list as two Porsches? Banish it, pronto.

You really haven't thought this through. If you must give us a big list, why not make it at least vaguely follow your rules? Also, is there anything to stop us from adding to the list?

Sorry, I forgot to mention the exclusions on th 4cyl rule. And the Pontiac is a Trans-Am not Grand Am. And, some of the German cars rate very well on the reliability surveys on some sites.

I'd say that...



That'd narrow the list down to this, and if you've not got much hope of finding the RS6 or S8 you may as well cross those off too unless you find one by fluke at the exact time you're car hunting:



Of the above, the M3, Dodges and C-Class look the most tempting, and of those I'd put my money on the M3 offering you the most reliability and generally the most fun too. That said, if the car's sound is a priority in any way a V8 always beats an inline six in which case I'd have a nice Magnum.

Unfortunately I can't offer you practical advice on finance and the like, but if the E46 M3 really is a realistic proposition it seems to be the hardest to ignore of all the cars you listed taking your criteria into consideration.

I love E46 M3's, but they are at the highest price point of my list. I only list the not likely ones just in case. I am strongly interested in the A8, S80 and the 2004-2006 Maxima too. And the A8 is probably #1 right now followed by the M3 and then a 2004+ Merc C-class V6. But, I am open for suggestions!

 

[ND4SPD]

Fits all your criteria's. Like your old Interceptor but way better.

Although, I think I'd pick a terminator out of your list over everything else. Even a Marauder.

You just can't say no to something like that.

 

[McLaren]

In Dallas, there's nothing rare, or cool about a Terminator. Lots of people in this city have one, and they've done everything imaginable to them. To find a bone stock Terminator without a lot work being done to them or being in mint condition is hard as hell for his price range. TBH, they're just boring, to me personally, because I see tons of them racing around at night.

With that, if you're finding E46 M3s for under $20K, good condition, and under 75K miles, let me know JCE, because that is a rarity. I'm only seeing 1 on AutoTrader right now in your range and it's only 3,000 miles away from 75K.

However, if you're willing to stretch, or can, there is a 33,000 mile M3 for $23,500 that is a '02 Coupe.

Any other M though, is nearly 10K out of what you want.

 

[Paulie]

Trans Am WS6, very nice.👍

 

[mustangGT90210]

I'd say termi, but if they're overplayed out there, the WS6 is amazing too

 

[JCE]

A Terminator and M3 are a tight squeeze, but not impossible.

How does everyone feel about an S60R?

Also the TA WS6 has to be low miles, as in 50k or less.

 

[Eric.]

The other thread is almost 2 years old and doesn't reflect my current financial status. My job is going well...I'm about to propose to my girlfriend this month so things are looking great.

Something doesn't add up here...






*goes to read the rest of the post*

Out of your list, I'd be looking for a G35 I think. More practical than the Z, still cheap, Infiniti gives it the not-your-usual-car distinction, the VQ35 makes excellent sound. What's not to like? I've driven a C5 Vette, which is probably the overall best performer on this list. It was cool to drive, but just doesn't feel that special to be in. I'd rather drive my Si anyday. They also scrape on absolutely everything.

How about a G8 GT? You can probably find one in that price range by the middle of 2010. And while you're looking at Audis and the like, any interest in Acuras? TL, TSX? Also a shameless plug for an Si like mine?

 

[McLaren]

I'd say termi, but if they're overplayed out there, the WS6 is amazing too

The Trans-Am is actually just as overplayed, too.

They're not bad cars, believe me when I say I like them, but they're the furthest thing from being unique out here. And the sad thing is, if you have either, some jackass with one is going to want to race you just so he can feel like his is more special when he wins.

The amount of Termi/WS6 owners in Dallas constantly trying to race each other just inflate their huge egos is ridiculous. 👎

 

[mustangGT90210]

Plan C: Buy a F150 Lightning

 

[JCE]

I need to tidy up my list and explain a few things...

Out of your list, I'd be looking for a G35 I think. More practical than the Z, still cheap, Infiniti gives it the not-your-usual-car distinction, the VQ35 makes excellent sound. What's not to like? I've driven a C5 Vette, which is probably the overall best performer on this list. It was cool to drive, but just doesn't feel that special to be in. I'd rather drive my Si anyday. They also scrape on absolutely everything.

How about a G8 GT? You can probably find one in that price range by the middle of 2010. And while you're looking at Audis and the like, any interest in Acuras? TL, TSX? Also a shameless plug for an Si like mine?

The Corvette would probably be a cheap one to buy and insure versus the G35 or M3 but I'd rather have the other two. And the G35 coupe is very high on my coupe want list. The TSX and TL are awsome cars but I'd rather have a Nissan Maxima or Ford Fusion to be honest. I guess I should split up the vehicles into categories.

The Trans-Am is actually just as overplayed, too.

They're not bad cars, believe me when I say I like them, but they're the furthest thing from being unique out here. And the sad thing is, if you have either, some jackass with one is going to want to race you just so he can feel like his is more special when he wins.

The amount of Termi/WS6 owners in Dallas constantly trying to race each other just inflate their huge egos is ridiculous. 👎

True, but it still doesn't diminish the fact that a black on black WS6 is just cool even with all the morons driving them.

Plan C: Buy a F150 Lightning

Don't want a truck, which includes the Lightning.

 

[a6m5]

I'd say go practical, avoid the Germans. I just think the risk is too much, when you are watching the payments you can afford. Many times, I've been in position to afford decent used 3, or 5-Series, but the high priced parts, combined with higher failure rate has scared me off.

But then again, if you want to test your luck, go get that hot car, now may be the time. Usually, it's too late by the time you get a kid & a wife(often in that order lol).

 

[McLaren]

Plan C: Buy a F150 Lightning

Good choice. Got to be careful again, though. Dallas residents seem to like adding custom exhausts & chipping these things.

Most though, thankfully, seem to be still decent.

The Corvette would probably be a cheap one to buy and insure versus the G35 or M3 but I'd rather have the other two. And the G35 coupe is very high on my coupe want list. The TSX and TL are awsome cars but I'd rather have a Nissan Maxima or Ford Fusion to be honest. I guess I should split up the vehicles into categories.

I'm admitting this as bias, but you'd rather have a Maxima over a TL?! Good lord man, I can understand the Fusion to a degree, but you'd be better off with an Altima SE-R at least over an old Maxima. I mean, when was the last time you heard a badass Maxima?

True, but it still doesn't diminish the fact that a black on black WS6 is just cool even with all the morons driving them.

Oh no doubt, and that would be a first. Most WS6 cars here seem to be yellow, orange, or blue. Rarely black.

 

[mustangGT90210]

Ok, plan D: Murdered out Lexus GS300, the previous body style. They have style in bunches with just a little bit of work

 

[Tornado]

I have to say this is the most generalized "Find me a car" list I have ever seen. I'd say Lincoln LS. Or maybe a Golf R32?

In Dallas, there's nothing rare, or cool about a Terminator.

Of course not! In Texas every third car is a Dodge Viper!

 

[JCE]

I'd say go practical, avoid the Germans. I just think the risk is too much, when you are watching the payments you can afford. Many times, I've been in position to afford decent used 3, or 5-Series, but the high priced parts, combined with higher failure rate has scared me off.

But then again, if you want to test your luck, go get that hot car, now may be the time. Usually, it's too late by the time you get a kid & a wife(often in that order lol).

True, but after spending several hours for the past couple of days reading online reviews and reliability ratings on a few sites for these cars I've tried to weed out the vehicles with serious reliability issues. But every car will have some sort of little issue here and there--which is fine. My thought is with things like window motors/regulators, interior electrical items, brakes and suspension issues. Those are the things that could make or break a car off my list.

Good choice. Got to be careful again, though. Dallas residents seem to like adding custom exhausts & chipping these things.

Most though, thankfully, seem to be still decent.

I'm admitting this as bias, but you'd rather have a Maxima over a TL?! Good lord man, I can understand the Fusion to a degree, but you'd be better off with an Altima SE-R at least over an old Maxima. I mean, when was the last time you heard a badass Maxima?


Oh no doubt, and that would be a first. Most WS6 cars here seem to be yellow, orange, or blue. Rarely black.

You know how I feel about Maxima's considering I've owned two and recommend them every time I see someone wanting to search for a saloon car. A black on black 6spd Maxima can be a great car as well as a cool one. And yes I like the Maxima over a TL. And the Fusion as well, but I do not care for the looks of the Altima at all.

Ok, plan D: Murdered out Lexus GS300, the previous body style. They have style in bunches with just a little bit of work

A GS has issues and those issues are expensive. And I don't want a Lexus.

I have to say this is the most generalized "Find me a car" list I have ever seen. I'd say Lincoln LS. Or maybe a Golf R32?


Of course not! In Texas every third car is a Dodge Viper!

The reason why this list is large is because those are all the cars that I like that fit into my catagory of "want" cars and what I can afford. This thread is to find out additional information and reasons to add/subtract these and other vehicles to/from the list.

I've already removed a couple. 👍

 

[High-Test]

Why not a gently used 2007-2008 Subaru of some sort? If you catch one with low enough miles, it'll have a warranty with it.

I'll second (or third) the Lincoln LS.

 

[McLaren]

Of course not! In Texas every third car is a Dodge Viper!

Why is that actually somewhat true.

You know how I feel about Maxima's considering I've owned two and recommend them every time I see someone wanting to search for a saloon car. A black on black 6spd Maxima can be a great car as well as a cool one. And yes I like the Maxima over a TL. And the Fusion as well, but I do not care for the looks of the Altima at all.

Understandable. You like what you like.

 

[a6m5]

True, but after spending several hours for the past couple of days reading online reviews and reliability ratings on a few sites for these cars I've tried to weed out the vehicles with serious reliability issues. But every car will have some sort of little issue here and there--which is fine. My thought is with things like window motors/regulators, interior electrical items, brakes and suspension issues. Those are the things that could make or break a car off my list.

As long as you are aware. 👍 Just don't forget that as awesome as they are, they are known for electrical issues. Modules, sensors, they can cripple your car, or even prohibit you from driving it by failing emissions. And those parts are often very expensive to buy, and diagnostics doesn't always go smooth, even in newer used cars.

Don't want to scare you, but I do want you to be informed. Have fun on your new car hunting, and good luck buddy! 👍

P.S. I should add that, try to get two keys with the car. Microchipped keys are kind of spendy, and if you end up buying from a dealer, they'd often be willing to pay for the missing second key.

 

[Philly]

If you can get your hands on an E46 M3, go for it. I think it's one of the better cars on the list. Probably only the 911, VQ cars, Corvette and Cobra will top it as performance machines. And, IMO, aren't as awesome. You can't go wrong with BMW.

Also, how about an older 911? If you're looking for a daily driver type, then maybe a 993 or 964 wouldn't be the best idea, but those would be other cars to consider if you want a really cool sports car.

 

[Rotary Junkie]

2003-2008 Mazda 6s perhaps?

Same as the Fusion but a little stiffer, a little smaller, and available with a stick behind the V6.

 

[JCE]

One thing I failed to mention is my girlfriend (future fiance) has informed me that any car she feels is a "grampa" car and or a car she doesn't really like is either going to replace the Camaro or not be bought. In other words I have to choose between the Camaro or another car she's not too fond of--or want to be seen in. For example this eliminates any Ford Panther car.

Anybody have any thoughts on Jaaaaaaaags?

Why not a gently used 2007-2008 Subaru of some sort? If you catch one with low enough miles, it'll have a warranty with it.

I'll second (or third) the Lincoln LS.

I like Subaru's but do not want to own one. The Lincoln LS I like but the GF doesn't care for them much--she's only 50% on the approval rating.

Fits all your criteria's. Like your old Interceptor but way better.

Sorry but no Panther cars, the GF told me she will not like me getting one and if I did I'd have to sell the Camaro. So the Camaro stays...

As long as you are aware. 👍 Just don't forget that as awesome as they are, they are known for electrical issues. Modules, sensors, they can cripple your car, or even prohibit you from driving it by failing emissions. And those parts are often very expensive to buy, and diagnostics doesn't always go smooth, even in newer used cars.

Don't want to scare you, but I do want you to be informed. Have fun on your new car hunting, and good luck buddy! 👍

P.S. I should add that, try to get two keys with the car. Microchipped keys are kind of spendy, and if you end up buying from a dealer, they'd often be willing to pay for the missing second key.

I know with any of these German or Japanese luxury cars is going to cost alot of money to get a second key/keyfob. And that they would cost a bit much on the emissions equipment--but keep in mind so do alot of the Japanese cars. Especially Nissan.

If you can get your hands on an E46 M3, go for it. I think it's one of the better cars on the list. Probably only the 911, VQ cars, Corvette and Cobra will top it as performance machines. And, IMO, aren't as awesome. You can't go wrong with BMW.

Also, how about an older 911? If you're looking for a daily driver type, then maybe a 993 or 964 wouldn't be the best idea, but those would be other cars to consider if you want a really cool sports car.

Problem is finding an older 911 with low miles. Can you give me a few examples of years, trims and specs of the 911's you'd want me to look at? And I want a turbo and or Carrera 4.

2003-2008 Mazda 6s perhaps?

Same as the Fusion but a little stiffer, a little smaller, and available with a stick behind the V6.

I like Mazda6's but prefer the Fusion.

 

[Rotary Junkie]

But you can get a stick with a 6! And they handle better! (slightly)

 

[JCE]

But I'd rather have a Fusion, and you can get the V6 with AWD.

 

[Rotary Junkie]

Yeah but AWD sucks on these cars, the Mazdaspeed 6 is more of an understeer pig than the FWD cars.

 

[Casio]

JCE, you know the only logical choice here is a Saab.

 

[JCE]

After researching a bit more tonight seems as though an Audi A8 L and Merc S430/500 are a good choice. They seem reliable at least and I like the idea of having that much luxury at my fingertips. Also, the Infiniti G35 coupe seems to also be a very good car and I can get a rather newer one for a good price.

I'm scared to even think about Jags, but I would consider one if the reliability was there. Still, I'd rather have the A8 L--its my #1 right now followed by the G35 coupe.

Yeah but AWD sucks on these cars, the Mazdaspeed 6 is more of an understeer pig than the FWD cars.

Maybe, but I probably won't care too much. The Fusion is further down on the list. There are a rather large chunk of cars ahead of it.

JCE, you know the only logical choice here is a Saab.

Don't like GM Saabs much. Yes they look good inside and out but I don't care for the build quality and the lack of low mileage ones with a V6. Plus, I'd rather have a Volvo.

 

[Casio]

That's it. Off the friends list.