NationStates Jolt Archive

Okay, me being the weak bastard I am, I bailed out of my plans for a trip overseas these holidays. Several reasons, though the main one being that I would have made the trip alone, and I don't think I would have enjoyed myself as much as I would have going with a friend.

So I'll plan something proper with one or two of my mates for the next holidays.

Which also means that I need something to take my mind off the horrible spectre of boredom which creeps up on me. I need something to look forward to and feel excited about.

In other words: I'm finally gonna get myself a car!

Now that my dad finally found something of a real job (which includes a company "car"), I will actually be getting the money I earn delivering pizzas, rather than it going straight to pay for rent. So now I can actually afford it.

So I assume the Golf will be sold or paid off in full during the holidays. Either way I should be getting a few thousand quid from it, plus money I saved over time, and the money I get for work.

All together, I would expect to get somewhere around $10,000 Australian, maybe a bit more, ready to be spent. But there is also the possibility of getting a finance deal, which would probably double my budget without bringing too much risk. A bit of numbercrunching reveals that I should be able to pay for 10k in finance, insurance, registration and fuel without too much trouble (as long as I work).

Which brings me to the real question: Which car to get?

I have narrowed it down to three choices, with one being an outside chance I'm not overly enthusiastic for.

1.
Mazda MX-5 'Miata' Mk1 (http://www.carsales.com.au/used-cars/dealer/MAZDA/MX5/details.aspx?__Ns=pCar_Price_Decimal%7C0%7C%7CpCar_StatusSort_Int32%7C1&Make=MAZDA&__Nne=20&State=All%20States&Region=All%20Regions&R=331438&state_id=0&__N=4294965340+0+4294960689++834+285+258+287&distance=25&trecs=88&Model=MX5&RegionID=&__sid=10F4C8F42F0D&sort_type=3&silo=1000&Cr=2&seot=0)

http://images.carsales.com.au/dealer/carsales/5270803.jpg

This one's the cheapest option. I wouldn't have to get finance for it.

On the Pro side it's got the price and the fact that it's a great car to learn the ins and outs of rear-wheel drive in. It's light-weight, handles well and is just generally fairly forgiving.

On the Con side it's old (16 or 17 years, in fact :eek: ), safety equipment isn't big on the agenda, and you'd have to spend a bit of money to make it look good (there are some neat bodykits, and it needs different headlights to get rid of that 80s look).

2.
B5 Audi A4 (http://www.carsales.com.au/used-cars/dealer/AUDI/A4/details.aspx?__Ns=pCar_StatusSort_Int32|1||pCar_Price_Decimal|0&Make=AUDI&__Nne=20&R=469099&Region=All%20Regions&state_id=0&__N=4294967194+0+4294967178+4294933291++834+285+258+287&distance=25&trecs=3&Model=A4&RegionID=&__sid=10F4C8F42F0D&silo=1000&Cr=1&seot=0&State=All%20States)

http://images.carsales.com.au/dealer/carsales/5455829.jpg

There's three versions of this. A simple 1.8 litre for cylinder, which is pointless since it's little more than the Golf in drag. Then there's a 1.8T, which needs another $2000 in ECU mods to be worth it. And then there's a 2.4l V6.

Unfortunately the latter is rather expensive, and it'll need finance. Not to mention higher fuel consumption.

On the Pro side is the coolness factor...an A4 with nice wheels, a decent bodykit and scary (but sophisticated) exhaust sound is probably one of the most cool things around, both in Avant and normal versions. It's also got heaps of extras that make life easy.

On the Con side is that it would have to be a Quattro...my driving skills aren't going to benefit much from another front-wheel drive car, especially if it's going to end up overloaded with power it can't handle. It also needs to be a manual. Finding the two together is difficult, the combination is rare ("luxury" cars don't get sold much without automatic transmission). Insurance is probably quite expensive too.

3.
Toyota MR2 Spyder (http://www.carsales.com.au/used-cars/dealer/TOYOTA/MR2/details.aspx?__Ns=pCar_Price_Decimal%7C0%7C%7CpCar_StatusSort_Int32%7C1&Make=TOYOTA&__Nne=20&State=All%20States&Region=All%20Regions&R=456288&state_id=0&__N=4294962861+0+4294962177++834+285+258+287&distance=25&trecs=26&Model=MR2&RegionID=&__sid=10F4C8F42F0D&sort_type=3&silo=1000&Cr=5&seot=0)

http://images.carsales.com.au/dealer/carsales/5714284.jpg

I quite like this car. The headlights are funny and probably need replacement, but the rest is very nice. The rear has a touch of Lamborghini Gallardo about it. Indeed, if one gets nice wheels, some sort of black mesh to cover the engine, a new exhaust and spray the car in yellow...very nice.

On the downside is mainly the price. It's above 20k, so I'd have to take up a finance deal, and insurance will cost more as well. But at the moment that one seems like the option I like most, even though they only seem available with a clutchless sequential gearbox, which is a bit of a drawback.

4.
Subaru WRX (http://www.carsales.com.au/used-cars/dealer/SUBARU/IMPREZA/details.aspx?Model=IMPREZA&__Nne=20&__N=4294963801+0+4294963800+4294931195++834+285+258+287&Make=SUBARU&RegionID=&State=All%20States&silo=1000&state_id=0&distance=25&Cr=0&seot=0&__sid=10F4C8F42F0D&R=557418&__Ns=pCar_StatusSort_Int32|1||pCar_Price_Decimal|0&Region=All%20Regions&trecs=7)

http://images.carsales.com.au/dealer/carsales/5689736.jpg

This is the outside chance. Whoever would've thought though that the WRX was the sensible choice, hey?

The price seems to hover around 17k, so cheaper than the Audi and Toyota. The year would be 1998, so not too old. It's got plenty of power (and performance parts and modifications are easy to come by), manual transmission and all-wheel drive.

Not sure about the image of the thing, but I guess that's the last thing one should worry about. Unless of course it's the reputation with insurers, which can't be great. Also an issue is that the thing reportedly dies if it gets anything but super fuel, so the petrol bill would be high. But it does have four seats and room for pizzas to deliver, I guess.

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

So what do the knowledgable folks of NS General reckon? Which one would you people prefer? Why? And would I be particularly insane if I chose one?

Does anyone perhaps have experience with any of these cars and can give tips or advice?

And in case anyone needs help with exchange rates: http://www.xe.com/ucc/

I know nothing about cars but get the Spyder! Someone famous died horribly in one of them.

Not the Subaru!!

I know nothing about cars but get the Spyder! Someone famous died horribly in one of them.
You're thinking about James Dean in a Porsche. Sorta out of my price range, I'm afraid. :p

You're thinking about James Dean in a Porsche. Sorta out of my price range, I'm afraid. :p

What ever, same name!

As one can see, i voted the Mazda, i regret this, the Audi is classier.

Not the Subaru!!

Yeah, whatever you do dont get the subaru, it looks horrible.

Yeah, whatever you do dont get the subaru, it looks horrible.
It's ugly, isn't it. :D

But by all accounts it's great to drive, so as long as one stays on the inside, one would be fine.

It depends either if you're planning to spend hundreds or thousands of dollars for repairs if something gets damaged.

Or you can buy it and keep it in your garage.

From personal opinion, the maxda can suffer some nice visual improvements, you know.. street racing? :p

Be a patriot; get the Audi.

It depends on what you want to do.

If you want to pick up a girl, get the Toyota.

If you want to pick up a guy, get the Miata.

If you want to pick up 2-3 friends and go somewhere, get the Subaru.

If you want to pick up 2-3 friends and go somewhere in style and performance, get the Audi. It will also help pick up girls or guys depending on your persuasion. I would personally go with that, just because it's an Audi ;)

From personal opinion, the maxda can suffer some nice visual improvements, you know.. street racing? :p
Hehe, there's a few guys in this neighbourhood who do that sort of thing here. Except that they have Twin Turbo 300ZX and Skyline's pushing 350+ horsepower.

So the MX-5 isn't gonna keep up no matter how hard I try. The one thing I worry about a bit with it is the complete lack of safety equipment. If one crashes in that thing, you're gonna feel it the next morning. Hopefully.

I've got the perfect vehicle for you!


http://www.shorey.net/Auto/Miscellaneous%20Pictures/2000%20Oscar%20Meyer%20Wienermobile=mx=.jpg

:D

if it was me, and i was one of those who said "get a bike", i'd get something that takes a lickin and keeps on ticken! not something to try and look cool on the cheep in. get yourself a second hand datsun pickup or e-10 van or equivelant. something you can take out in the bush and beat the hell out of and still be able to get to work in the next day.

remember if you can't take it off the pavement, you might as well be riding public transportation. you'd be doing yourself and the planet a major favor by doing so. and you don't need a cowboy caddilac gas guzzler either, to get out in the outback and away from so called civilization. something small but with a really sturdy suspension system and maybe a skidd pan to protect its guts, that's otherwise super good on gas, that's why i suggest going japanese, would do the job just fine.

=^^=
.../\...

something you can take out in the bush and beat the hell out of and still be able to get to work in the next day.

remember if you can't take it off the pavement, you might as well be riding public transportation.
Well, I'm not really into the bush and all that stuff. Off-roading isn't my thing, I prefer a good road or go karting (though that's just not the same).

And public transportation isn't gonna be helping with delivering pizzas, so that's out too.

Also, I like cars, and having a nice car is something that will make me happy.

I've got the perfect vehicle for you!


http://www.shorey.net/Auto/Miscellaneous%20Pictures/2000%20Oscar%20Meyer%20Wienermobile=mx=.jpg

:D

i doubt anyone would want to be seen in that.

Toyota MR2 Spyder

Gotta be the A4

i doubt anyone would want to be seen in that.

Cars are merely expressions of our phalluses. What could be more phallic than riding around in a giant wiener? :)

Cars are merely expressions of our phalluses. What could be more phallic than riding around in a giant wiener? :)

This is true.......
*attempts to buy a penis shaped car*

Gotta be the A4
http://www.goapr.com.au/products/ecu_upgrade_a418t.html
http://www.goapr.com.au/images/dyno_a4_stage_i.gif

This would be my first point of call. Seems like good value for money, and the switch for two different ECU settings (mine would probably be "fuel save" and "go all out") is a neat idea.

i doubt anyone would want to be seen in that.
That's what the backseats without windows are for. ;)

And Neu Leonstein, go get the Audi, please? The other cars look really crappy!

Bump.

Has to be the MR2.

It's mid-engined for god sake!

CAn't your jelly legs ride a bike?

i would be so torn between the audi and the mazda. i reckon you'd have more fun in the mazda and you can make it into an awesome car with the money saved. if you have the money to run and modify the audi though that would be cool and they are very solid cars.

don't get an MR2 though. i used to drive a tuned version of one of those a while ago occasionally for a job. i've never felt so unsafe in a car in my life, ridiculously skittish and it felt like it had no grip (might have been because it had extra-stiffened suspension so i don't really know what a standard one is like).

i reckon if you can fit you're pizzas in the mazda get that. they are still one of the best modern roadsters you can get. i am slightly biased in favour of roadsters generally though.

wah! my finger slipped and i voted for the bike. count my vote as for the mazda.

It's ugly, isn't it. :D

But by all accounts it's great to drive, so as long as one stays on the inside, one would be fine.
Dude, it's a Subaru. Thus, it is a good car. Trust me on this. I live in an area where a car with all-wheel drive and superior control is a must. I have a Subaru from that same year and it is the single best car I've ever driven. Screw how it looks: GET THE SUBARU.

Here's my car, so you can guess what I voted.

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a353/tuebor/CIMG0609.jpg

I like the ummmmm accessories ... :D

http://www.hyundai.ee/pics/main/sonata_fl_1_172615.jpg

I've got the perfect vehicle for you!


http://www.shorey.net/Auto/Miscellaneous%20Pictures/2000%20Oscar%20Meyer%20Wienermobile=mx=.jpg

:DI thought that was the perfect vehicle for you. :confused:



On Topic:

I'm completely ignoring the Miada. Here they are only bought by older men (50+) and women. Thus, I am going to be unfairly biased against it.


Ok, the Toyota. I agree with you on the headlights, but don't forget those taillights, they are just as bad. While I do prefer the look of the second gen, the car looks pretty good. It is a bit, um, ricerish, but it looks good regardless. My friend's brother managed to snag himself a Japanese second gen, and it has balls. If money were no object, this would be my pick. So, start mugging girl scouts.

The Audi A4 is very sharp looking. I've heard that they perform well, but I know nobody that has ever owned an Audi. Also the comment on the front wheel drive seems woird to me. Is it that FRD is useless, or that you suck at it? Both all things considered, this is what I would buy-if you can get the options to line up.

This is what gets me. You considered the Miata, but think the Subaru looks bad.:confused: Subarus are well liked here by both ricers and booners. Nice well rounded cars. However, the Audi is too, and like Will Smith, it make this look good.

I thought that was the perfect vehicle for you. :confused:



On Topic:

I'm completely ignoring the Miada. Here they are only bought by older men (50+) and women. Thus, I am going to be unfairly biased against it.


Ok, the Toyota. I agree with you on the headlights, but don't forget those taillights, they are just as bad. While I do prefer the look of the second gen, the car looks pretty good. It is a bit, um, ricerish, but it looks good regardless. My friend's brother managed to snag himself a Japanese second gen, and it has balls. If money were no object, this would be my pick. So, start mugging girl scouts.

The Audi A4 is very sharp looking. I've heard that they perform well, but I know nobody that has ever owned an Audi. Also the comment on the front wheel drive seems woird to me. Is it that FRD is useless, or that you suck at it? Both all things considered, this is what I would buy-if you can get the options to line up.

This is what gets me. You considered the Miata, but think the Subaru looks bad.:confused: Subarus are well liked here by both ricers and booners. Nice well rounded cars. However, the Audi is too, and like Will Smith, it make this look good.

I concur.

Also the comment on the front wheel drive seems woird to me. Is it that FRD is useless, or that you suck at it? Both all things considered, this is what I would buy-if you can get the options to line up.
Well, my Golf now has front-wheel drive. I've never had a car that has rear-wheel drive, so I'd definitely be interested in that, just for the sake of my development as a driver, so to speak :p .

With the Audi I'd definitely be looking at performance upgrades, and at some point the FWD platform can't handle it anymore when the front wheels have to both transmit steering inputs and the power. The Quattro AWD drivetrain would be better suited to that, plus it's cooler.

This is what gets me. You considered the Miata, but think the Subaru looks bad.:confused:
I saw an MX-5 the other day in yellow with a bodykit. It looked a lot like a 180SX without a roof, and I liked it.

The Subaru...well, there's bodykits and stuff around, but the shape isn't pretty, no matter what you do to it, I reckon. Though that's secondary with a car like the WRX: How it drives matters a lot more.

Well, my Golf now has front-wheel drive. I've never had a car that has rear-wheel drive, so I'd definitely be interested in that, just for the sake of my development as a driver, so to speak :p .

With the Audi I'd definitely be looking at performance upgrades, and at some point the FWD platform can't handle it anymore when the front wheels have to both transmit steering inputs and the power. The Quattro AWD drivetrain would be better suited to that, plus it's cooler.
OK, It is that FWD sucks, which I have to agree with. Except when you have to dig oun of snow. But you live in Aussie land, and probably had to wiki snow...
I saw an MX-5 the other day in yellow with a bodykit. It looked a lot like a 180SX without a roof, and I liked it.
Still a girls car.
The Subaru...well, there's bodykits and stuff around, but the shape isn't pretty, no matter what you do to it, I reckon. Though that's secondary with a car like the WRX: How it drives matters a lot more.
I think what people like about them is they are a cheap way of getting a Lancer, with some body kitting, cuz they aren't too pretty either.

Still a girls car.
http://www.shophyperformance.com/cart/images/thumb/Miata_body_kits283s.jpg

Does that look like a "girl's car" to you? I reckon a real girl's car would be some big SUV for soccer mums.

http://www.shophyperformance.com/cart/images/thumb/Miata_body_kits283s.jpg

Does that look like a "girl's car" to you? I reckon a real girl's car would be some big SUV for soccer mums.

Or a yellow Dodge Neon. That seems to be what most girls around here drive.

http://www.shophyperformance.com/cart/images/thumb/Miata_body_kits283s.jpg

Does that look like a "girl's car" to you? I reckon a real girl's car would be some big SUV for soccer mums.It's alright. But yellow?

It's alright. But yellow?
A Lamborghini is also meant to be yellow. I don't think anyone calls those girl's cars.

I think a roadster needs a fancy colour. The Audi I'd get sprayed black, no doubt. And probably the same for the Subaru.

A Lamborghini is also meant to be yellow. I don't think anyone calls those girl's cars.

I think a roadster needs a fancy colour. The Audi I'd get sprayed black, no doubt. And probably the same for the Subaru.

I'm not saying yellow is a girls color, I'm saying it is ugly. It even brings the Lambo down. Personally, I like copperish orange.

Don't rule this car out!

http://www.motorpasion.com/images/2008-Challenger-000.jpg

2008 Dodge Challenger baby!

http://www.stockmopar.com/2008-dodge-challenger.html

My dad used to have one of the old Challengers and I LOVED IT!

Not familiar with subarus, but I know Audi is a good car. I wouldn't touch the mazda , the toyota might be alright tho. But if I could afford either .. I'd definatly go with the audi.

Don't rule this car out!

http://www.motorpasion.com/images/2008-Challenger-000.jpg

2008 Dodge Challenger baby!

http://www.stockmopar.com/2008-dodge-challenger.html

My dad used to have one of the old Challengers and I LOVED IT!

I like how the stuck to the old body styling so well. But I doubt this would float NL's boat.

Don't rule this car out!

http://www.motorpasion.com/images/2008-Challenger-000.jpg

2008 Dodge Challenger baby!

http://www.stockmopar.com/2008-dodge-challenger.html

My dad used to have one of the old Challengers and I LOVED IT!

I like how they managed to stick to the older body styling so well, but I doubt that it would float NL's boat...

Get the Dodge Challenger, you know you want to. Comon, the big powerful Hemi, the big powerful sexy car. The girls will be all over you, and you can kick anyone's ass in racing! ;)

Get the Dodge Challenger, you know you want to. Comon, the big powerful Hemi, the big powerful sexy car. The girls will be all over you, and you can kick anyone's ass in racing! ;)
I'm in Oz. My equivalent would be some sort of HSV or FPV musclecar. And I'm not really into those, plus the fuel bill would be ridiculous.

Get the Dodge Challenger, you know you want to. Comon, the big powerful Hemi, the big powerful sexy car. The girls will be all over you, and you can kick anyone's ass in racing! ;)

Except that the Toyota could run circles around it...

Okay, me being the weak bastard I am, I bailed out of my plans for a trip overseas these holidays. Several reasons, though the main one being that I would have made the trip alone, and I don't think I would have enjoyed myself as much as I would have going with a friend.

So I'll plan something proper with one or two of my mates for the next holidays.

Which also means that I need something to take my mind off the horrible spectre of boredom which creeps up on me. I need something to look forward to and feel excited about.

In other words: I'm finally gonna get myself a car!



So what do the knowledgable folks of NS General reckon? Which one would you people prefer? Why? And would I be particularly insane if I chose one?

I figure you need an outside opinion from someone who know less than nothing about cars, and cares even less.

First, you're mad to want to travel with anyone but yourself for any prolonged period of time. All you'll end up doing is getting disgusted by how they chew, the way their feet smell after two weeks, despising their predilection for generic shopping when all you want to do is see archeological sites, without even getting to have sex with them as a consolation prize (presuming your "mates" are the conventional kind). Moreover, giving up on a trip of any kind in favor of rotting your brain all summer is a symptom of extreme and dangerous lethargy.

Second, you have 20 k at your disposal and all you can think to do with it is blow it on a pile of bolts. This is what guys with small penises did 20 years ago. Now they buy themselves tony suits and eco-friendly solar powered vespa scooters. As LG quite correctly implied, there is nothing buying a car can do to make you happy that a bit of lovin' cannot. And the latter is far less expensive. In any event, you live in Australia, right. It's nice and sunny. Get yourself a warm jacket, some awesome boots, a cute moped, and deliver your pizzas while making a fashion statement and saving the planet. And save your bread for that trip.

I'm in Oz. My equivalent would be some sort of HSV or FPV musclecar. And I'm not really into those, plus the fuel bill would be ridiculous.

Yea, but who cares about fuel when you got this baby? Huh? ;)

Yea, but who cares about fuel when you got this baby? Huh? ;)

Well, if it were at all possible for him to get one, he might want to drive it. You know, put that $80k to use.

Moreover, giving up on a trip of any kind in favor of rotting your brain all summer is a symptom of extreme and dangerous lethargy.
Look, it's not like I don't wanna go. But I'm not sure I like the idea of going to all these foreign cities all by myself.

I'm not the type who goes out there and loves everybody and everybody loves him back. I'm somewhat introverted, and I think I'd have a difficult time getting to know people. The way I know myself, I'd be spending most of the time going from one attraction to the next all by myself. That's not the way you get great memories, that's just ticking off boxes and saying "yeah, I've been there".

I'd much prefer a real adventure, but that needs a bit better planning than what I've done so far (and that you can put down to lethargy) - and someone to share the adventure with. For these holidays I might be able to do a few smaller things. Like a road trip somewhere, or something.

As for getting some lovin', that's easier said than done.

Look, it's not like I don't wanna go. But I'm not sure I like the idea of going to all these foreign cities all by myself.

I'm not the type who goes out there and loves everybody and everybody loves him back. I'm somewhat introverted, and I think I'd have a difficult time getting to know people. The way I know myself, I'd be spending most of the time going from one attraction to the next all by myself. That's not the way you get great memories, that's just ticking off boxes and saying "yeah, I've been there".

I'd much prefer a real adventure, but that needs a bit better planning than what I've done so far (and that you can put down to lethargy) - and someone to share the adventure with. For these holidays I might be able to do a few smaller things. Like a road trip somewhere, or something.
I dunno. I think adventures are easier to find when you're independent. That way you can take up any whim you like, and not feel encumbered by anything. Freedom, like. I know this sounds really terrible and holier-than-though, (and I can't think of a formulation where it doesn't), but being open to things and people really makes opportuities for adventure innevitable. I don't know if one can really plan adventure.

But in any event, how can you not want one of these cuties?
http://www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com/image-files/scooter-vespa-gnu.jpg
or these:
http://www.lyrictheatreokc.com/vespa.JPG

I'll say all this up front before I tell you what I think you should get-

I think that the A4 is pimptastic. I had a friend with a 6-cylinder quattro and it was really a very pimp car. I've been a big fan of the A4 since it came out.

I actually like the Subaru, too. Box flares seem like something a 12 year old would design on a car, and the big boxy wings on the back, ugh. BUT, inexpensive compared to the cars whose level it performs at. And really, all that matters is between the tires and the pavement and that damn thing delivers.

I also like the Miata. But then, I'm confident enough in the size of my penis to have been driving a 46 hp VW Bus for the last 10 or so years. (I had a sports car that was going to lose me my license, so I had to go with something that couldn't break the speed limit on a dare.) It's really about as pure a sports car as being made today.

And really, that's your choice. You're looking for a drivers car, and you're building your skills as a driver, you can't get a purer experience. The Toyota is a mid-engine car, which is the best layout, but also an unforgiving bitch of a layout as well. Mid-engine cars handle damn well, but when you go over the edge you go. You will learn to be a very precise driver, or pay a lot in body repair before you learn that.

The Miata is zippy, fun to drive and the purest sports car drive you can get.

And if for some reason you feel you need more punch, you can always turn it into a monster (http://www.monstermiata.com/).

Since you can't get a Lotus Elan, go for the Miata. You have to work it to find that edge on the AWD options, and finding the edge might be unpleasent in the mid-engine option.

The Miata. Or an '89 944 Porsche Turbo (951). Either way.

EDIT: Oh yeah, and as a pizza delivery driver, the A4 will adversely effect your tips. You'll look like a rich kid who doesn't need the money.

Go the Rex. It may be as ugly as a hat full of arseholes, but it'll beat the Audi, the MX-5 and the MR2 on the road or track. It's good value too, if you can afford the insurance.

Don't get the Subaru. Not only will you look like a chav, but you can never switch it 'off'. They're hardcore motoring, even when you just want to pop to the shops - it may have a boot, but that doesn't mean you'd want to live with it day to day. Uncomfortable, noisy, and cheap and nasty inside.

Go with the Audi. You've said you want it many times before; if you can get the performance you want out of it, then you can have a fun car without compromise. And, if you want a convertible, just buy yourself a chainsaw.

Don't get the Subaru. Not only will you look like a chav, but you can never switch it 'off'. They're hardcore motoring, even when you just want to pop to the shops - it may have a boot, but that doesn't mean you'd want to live with it day to day. Uncomfortable, noisy, and cheap and nasty inside.

Go with the Audi. You've said you want it many times before; if you can get the performance you want out of it, then you can have a fun car without compromise. And, if you want a convertible, just buy yourself a chainsaw.

That made me giggle. All that class thrown away by an Alabama Renovation.

-snip-
I knew you'd say it like that.

The MR2 is neat, but an MX-5 is similar in all the important aspects as far as I can be concerned, and cheaper. So it's out.

Which leaves the Audi and the MX-5. Looks, image and coolness on one side against driving experience on the other. You're gonna end up feeling bad a little bit either way.

Oh, and the Audi is about 12,000 dollars more.

And then there's the second generation MX-5...

Damn, I'm gonna have to sleep on this. A few times, probably.

I knew you'd say it like that.

The MR2 is neat, but an MX-5 is similar in all the important aspects as far as I can be concerned, and cheaper. So it's out.

Which leaves the Audi and the MX-5. Looks, image and coolness on one side against driving experience on the other. You're gonna end up feeling bad a little bit either way.

Oh, and the Audi is about 12,000 dollars more.

And then there's the second generation MX-5...

Damn, I'm gonna have to sleep on this. A few times, probably.

Big ones like this are hard. I always end up feeling like I'm saying no to a bunch of things instead of yes to one thing.

Think of it this way-the Miata is a good pure sports car experience. Later, that Audi will be more affordable or you'll be in a position to buy the better one, maybe even an S4.

Right now the Miata is an almost impossible marriage-a kick in the ass to drive (I can attest to that first hand...though the same is true of the A4, but in a very different way) and the cheaper to own in all respects. And convertibles are cool.

This is what gets me. You considered the Miata, but think the Subaru looks bad.:confused: Oh, that? That's because the Miata looks great while the Subaru looks like a chav piece of shit. See? Easy. :p

I'll say all this up front before I tell you what I think you should get-

I think that the A4 is pimptastic. I had a friend with a 6-cylinder quattro and it was really a very pimp car. I've been a big fan of the A4 since it came out.

I actually like the Subaru, too. Box flares seem like something a 12 year old would design on a car, and the big boxy wings on the back, ugh. BUT, inexpensive compared to the cars whose level it performs at. And really, all that matters is between the tires and the pavement and that damn thing delivers.

I also like the Miata. But then, I'm confident enough in the size of my penis to have been driving a 46 hp VW Bus for the last 10 or so years. (I had a sports car that was going to lose me my license, so I had to go with something that couldn't break the speed limit on a dare.) It's really about as pure a sports car as being made today.

And really, that's your choice. You're looking for a drivers car, and you're building your skills as a driver, you can't get a purer experience. The Toyota is a mid-engine car, which is the best layout, but also an unforgiving bitch of a layout as well. Mid-engine cars handle damn well, but when you go over the edge you go. You will learn to be a very precise driver, or pay a lot in body repair before you learn that.

The Miata is zippy, fun to drive and the purest sports car drive you can get.

And if for some reason you feel you need more punch, you can always turn it into a monster (http://www.monstermiata.com/).

Since you can't get a Lotus Elan, go for the Miata. You have to work it to find that edge on the AWD options, and finding the edge might be unpleasent in the mid-engine option.

The Miata. Or an '89 944 Porsche Turbo (951). Either way.

EDIT: Oh yeah, and as a pizza delivery driver, the A4 will adversely effect your tips. You'll look like a rich kid who doesn't need the money.ZOMG, I actually agree with you. Except on the 944 Porsche, of course. :p

Look, it's not like I don't wanna go. But I'm not sure I like the idea of going to all these foreign cities all by myself.

I'm not the type who goes out there and loves everybody and everybody loves him back. I'm somewhat introverted, and I think I'd have a difficult time getting to know people. The way I know myself, I'd be spending most of the time going from one attraction to the next all by myself. That's not the way you get great memories, that's just ticking off boxes and saying "yeah, I've been there".

I'd much prefer a real adventure, but that needs a bit better planning than what I've done so far (and that you can put down to lethargy) - and someone to share the adventure with. For these holidays I might be able to do a few smaller things. Like a road trip somewhere, or something.

As for getting some lovin', that's easier said than done.

My thoughts exactly, spend the money on hookers and blow.

EDIT: Oh yeah, and as a pizza delivery driver, the A4 will adversely effect your tips. You'll look like a rich kid who doesn't need the money.

That depends on where he lives. Any of those cars would have that effect where I live, while they wouldn't be looked at twice in Ann Arbor.

I've had people at my work (I work at a KFC) assume that I have rich parents because I drive a Miata when between work at the VA I make more than my parents (sadly enough).

That depends on where he lives. Any of those cars would have that effect where I live, while they wouldn't be looked at twice in Ann Arbor.

I've had people at my work (I work at a KFC) assume that I have rich parents because I drive a Miata when between work at the VA I make more than my parents (sadly enough).
True enough, though it's more certain with the A4, but you will get people that don't know that the first gen Miatas are pretty cheap. But the A4, a delivery boy in an Audi, that's going to look 'spoiled' 4 out of 5 times-no matter how hard NL worked to earn it himself.
Oh, that? That's because the Miata looks great while the Subaru looks like a chav piece of shit. See? Easy. :p

ZOMG, I actually agree with you. Except on the 944 Porsche, of course. :p
Aww...I know this can be difficult for you. I'll help you out.

Neo? Get a Dune Buggy (http://www.spacecitycruisers.com/art/patrick1.gif) (That color, too).

There, WYTYG, that should feel more familiar. ;p

EDIT: Oh yeah, and that means that you agree that the A4 is pimptastic, and pimptastic is good, and therefore pimp is good. Which means, pimp voice...;p

Aww...I know this can be difficult for you. I'll help you out.

Neo? Get a Dune Buggy (http://www.spacecitycruisers.com/art/patrick1.gif) (That color, too).

There, WYTYG, that should feel more familiar. ;p

EDIT: Oh yeah, and that means that you agree that the A4 is pimptastic, and pimptastic is good, and therefore pimp is good. Which means, pimp voice...;p

http://www.freesmileys.org/emo/ad/screwloose.gif to all of that.


Ahhhhh, yes, much better already. :p

Audi or the Spyder!

Get the Dodge Challenger, you know you want to. Comon, the big powerful Hemi, the big powerful sexy car. The girls will be all over you, and you can kick anyone's ass in racing! ;)

Well, as long as there are no corners ;)

Big ones like this are hard. I always end up feeling like I'm saying no to a bunch of things instead of yes to one thing.

Think of it this way-the Miata is a good pure sports car experience. Later, that Audi will be more affordable or you'll be in a position to buy the better one, maybe even an S4.

Right now the Miata is an almost impossible marriage-a kick in the ass to drive (I can attest to that first hand...though the same is true of the A4, but in a very different way) and the cheaper to own in all respects. And convertibles are cool.

You said S4...

*drools*

Anyway, I'll second Ctoan's recommendation.

You said S4...

*drools*

Anyway, I'll second Ctoan's recommendation.

I've seen two RS4s in the wild now...they look like they eat children...me wantee...(NEVER thought I'd lust for a four door...)

Scrub them choices and buy a Mitsubishi Evolution VI - reckoned to be the best of the models, fast, fun, drinks fuel like a bastard (but so will the impreza), twin turbo'd, super-car performance and handling..........with a crap interior (but so has the subaru). Unless you get the Tommi Makinen (spp?) edition which has a reasonable interior.

EVO 6 FTW!

http://85.92.137.47/pics/mitsubishi_evo_6.jpg?f=1110227431.jpg

Otherwise....the MR2 roadster.

I've seen two RS4s in the wild now...they look like they eat children...me wantee...(NEVER thought I'd lust for a four door...)

I've seen a few about and yea....awesome looking cars.

For some reason I've just remembered last Thursday.

On the bus on the way to and from work I saw a 360 Modena, a 575 Maranello, a Vanquish, two DB9s, a V8 Vantage, a Gallardo, and a Continental GT.

Nice day.

Also saw a Rolls-Royce Phantom the other week, and I've seen a 612 Scagletti a few times; it looks amazing in the flesh.

I've seen a few about and yea....awesome looking cars.

For some reason I've just remembered last Thursday.

On the bus on the way to and from work I saw a 360 Modena, a 575 Maranello, a Vanquish, two DB9s, a V8 Vantage, a Gallardo, and a Continental GT.

Nice day.
Damn, was the Gumball going through your town or something? That's a damn fine day.

Also saw a Rolls-Royce Phantom the other week, and I've seen a 612 Scagletti a few times; it looks amazing in the flesh.
I saw a Scagletti at the Monterey Historics, even amongst all that awesome it was still impressive to look at. I saw a Carrera GT on Hwy 17 (twisty mountain highway, same road I saw the Veyron) a week or so ago-but it was signal orange...rich people are strange...

I say get the Miata. There's nothing like a rear-drive experience. Plus, think of the performance you can get out of that thing with the money you save. I say, keep it looking stock (and weak) but soup that thing up! With 10 grand to spend (savings compared to other cars), you can make that FAST.

I say get the Miata. There's nothing like a rear-drive experience. Plus, think of the performance you can get out of that thing with the money you save. I say, keep it looking stock (and weak) but soup that thing up! With 10 grand to spend (savings compared to other cars), you can make that FAST.

I'm sayin'...monster (http://monstermiata.com/)...

Damn, was the Gumball going through your town or something? That's a damn fine day.

Well, you see Astons about all the time these days. Same with the Bentleys. Don't see so many Ferraris, maybe once or twice a month, and hardly ever see the Gallardo, but its usually the same one you see. Bright orange. Looks brilliant.


I saw a Scagletti at the Monterey Historics, even amongst all that awesome it was still impressive to look at. I saw a Carrera GT on Hwy 17 (twisty mountain highway, same road I saw the Veyron) a week or so ago-but it was signal orange...rich people are strange...

Yea, the Scagletti looks awful in photos, but on the road it really works.

Carrera GT? Awesome...never really seen a supercar on the road here I don't think...I'd say the Rolls Royce is probably the most expensive car I've seen driving about, but it's not the same really...

Scrub them choices and buy a Mitsubishi Evolution VI...
Do I look like I'm made of money? And besides, I don't think the Evo VI ever came to Oz. I think the Evo VIII was the first here.

And I've got that one ear-marked for when I finish uni and get a real job. Either the Evo VIII or IX, or a supercharged 350Z.

My mother used to drive an A4 (before selling that, and getting an S4). It's a good car, good fuel efficiency, and plenty of power.

I slept on it, and I think I made my decision. The MX-5 (http://autospeed.drive.com.au/cms/A_2410/article.html) it is.

The main reasons are that it's rwd, running costs and spare parts will be cheaper and it's light-weight (and better for the environment). Maybe the closest thing to an original Elise available to me.

I also feel that I have to make a choice about how serious I am about driving. Functionality, or posing? And as if fate intervened, in my new issue of my favourite car magazine some 19 year old kid wrote a letter asking what car to get...their answer? Mk1 MX-5!

The biggest issue is however that I won't have to go out and get into debt to get the MX-5. I don't like the idea of being in debt.

The only thing I'm a little bit worried about is really the lack of an airbag. I don't suppose one could fit one aftermarket? ;)

The main reasons are that it's rwd, running costs and spare parts will be cheaper and it's light-weight (and better for the environment). Maybe the closest thing to an original Elise available to me.

Not to rain on your parade, but surely the MR2 is closest to the original Elise? :p

Small, light, mid-engined, two seater. Describes both of them. Small, light, front-engined, two seater describes only the MX-5 ;)

Not to rain on your parade, but surely the MR2 is closest to the original Elise? :p
I know, but one involves me spending my own money, the other involves spending someone else's money.

I can only really hope that my decision is final, and won't change the next time I think about it. I know that my mates and co-workers won't understand, they'd prefer the Audi, just because it's not a "girl's car".

I know, but one involves me spending my own money, the other involves spending someone else's money.

I can only really hope that my decision is final, and won't change the next time I think about it. I know that my mates and co-workers won't understand, they'd prefer the Audi, just because it's not a "girl's car".

Seriously, go with the MX-5. It would be a million times more fun than the A4.

Small, lightweight, front-engined, rear wheel drive, british-esque sportscar, with the best handling in the world vs. heavy saloon.

Who cares if they call it a girls car? You'll know you've made the right decision.

Not to rain on your parade, but surely the MR2 is closest to the original Elise? :p

Small, light, mid-engined, two seater. Describes both of them. Small, light, front-engined, two seater describes only the MX-5 ;)

But a Lotus Elan...
http://harveyshomepage.co.uk/harveyshomepage/lotus%20elan%20sprint%20web.jpg

Which is about as pure a Lotus, really...

But a Lotus Elan...
http://harveyshomepage.co.uk/harveyshomepage/lotus%20elan%20sprint%20web.jpg

Which is about as pure a Lotus, really...

Ah very true. And was pretty much copied for the MX-5.

I vaguely remember reading Jimmy Clark somewhere saying the Elan was the best handling road car he ever drove. Shame the same couldn't be said for the 90s version.

Ah very true. And was pretty much copied for the MX-5.

I vaguely remember reading Jimmy Clark somewhere saying the Elan was the best handling road car he ever drove. Shame the same couldn't be said for the 90s version.

Ugh, I try to block that thing out of my mind. I mean, really I'm a big fan of the ugly ducklings in sports car lines-I like the 914, I like the Europa, I like the Lamborghini Espada even. But I can't get over that Capri looking nonsense.

Doesn't matter because my car is cooler. :D

http://www.cars.com/features/mvp/nissan/350z/images/10_1977_blue.jpg

Mine actually looks better but I havn't taken a picture of it yet.

Doesn't matter because my car is cooler. :D

http://www.cars.com/features/mvp/nissan/350z/images/10_1977_blue.jpg

Mine actually looks better but I havn't taken a picture of it yet.
I drive a cultural icon-
http://img393.imageshack.us/img393/3773/myride1rg.jpg

And that one is mine.

I drive a cultural icon-
http://img393.imageshack.us/img393/3773/myride1rg.jpg

And that one is mine.

No power steering! High five!

No power steering! High five!
It has power steering in a way.

A 14" steering wheel...the 'power' steering known as leverage...

Ugh, I try to block that thing out of my mind. I mean, really I'm a big fan of the ugly ducklings in sports car lines-I like the 914, I like the Europa, I like the Lamborghini Espada even. But I can't get over that Capri looking nonsense.

I don't think I've ever seen one of those Elans. And I can live with that.

See Lotus's new car? The Europa S. Looks a bit duff....hopefully whatever the successor to the Elise is will be better.

I don't think I've ever seen one of those Elans. And I can live with that.

See Lotus's new car? The Europa S. Looks a bit duff....hopefully whatever the successor to the Elise is will be better.

It doesn't seem like a necessary model. The Exige already made a decent 'serious' hard top Elise. I like that they're bringing back the Espirit, I thought that they never went as all out as they could have with that car. I've always rooted for that car, it's the only real 'doorstop' car that I really like.

Though the new look is a little stunted NSX for my tastes.

Oh, that? That's because the Miata looks great while the Subaru looks like a chav piece of shit. See? Easy. :p

In Soviet Canada, it is the opposite...

I slept on it, and I think I made my decision. The MX-5 (http://autospeed.drive.com.au/cms/A_2410/article.html) it is.

The main reasons are that it's rwd, running costs and spare parts will be cheaper and it's light-weight (and better for the environment). Maybe the closest thing to an original Elise available to me.

I also feel that I have to make a choice about how serious I am about driving. Functionality, or posing? And as if fate intervened, in my new issue of my favourite car magazine some 19 year old kid wrote a letter asking what car to get...their answer? Mk1 MX-5!

The biggest issue is however that I won't have to go out and get into debt to get the MX-5. I don't like the idea of being in debt.

The only thing I'm a little bit worried about is really the lack of an airbag. I don't suppose one could fit one aftermarket? ;)

Nice choice on the MX5. I'd have gone for the Scooby, but the Mazda would be my second pick.

You did the right thing. The MX-5 is so superior. Those things last forever, and because there are so many around, spare parts and maintenance are what easy and cheap. Besides all that, its a really kick-ass car, great fun and looks good too.


Oh, and not getting into debt is a really, really, really good idea.

there is only one car that beats all these and is always respected everywhere you go, get a 1964 VW Westfalia....

Do I look like I'm made of money? And besides, I don't think the Evo VI ever came to Oz. I think the Evo VIII was the first here.

And I've got that one ear-marked for when I finish uni and get a real job. Either the Evo VIII or IX, or a supercharged 350Z.

Fair enough, money's the only thing stopping me from buying one - I'm about £16,000 short of buying an evo 6 and £34,000 ish short of a 9! maybe I should start saving sometime! :p

The Nissan Fairlady's along the same lines too, that's a demon of a car! MR2 FTW! I say!

You don't need a car. What you need is a pickup truck. Much more pratical and you can even put a gun rack in it. :eek:

there is only one car that beats all these and is always respected everywhere you go, get a 1964 VW Westfalia....

I like the '67...but I'm biased...