Practical Dreaming - Tilted Forum Project Discussion Community

Halx · 11-12-2003, 02:08 AM

So, I figure... if life gets any better, I may just get a new car. I mean, I love my Accord, but when you're going well, you gotta live well too. Here are my choices... so far

Infiniti G35 Coupe - 280hp - $32k - It's beautiful, but WAY popular. It's quick, but it has hardly enough storage for a beginner's golf bag. Manual.

Subaru Impreza WRX STi - 300hp - $30k - It's a city machine with a rally suspension. Quick.. I am not sure about luxury features. Manual.

Volvo S60 T5 - 247hp - $32k - Safe, roomy, luxurious. Not as much quickness, but a very smooth ride. Manual.

Mercury Marauder - 302hp - $32k - Ok, I don't really want this 'grandpa' car. It would be bitchin' if it wasn't on the Crown Vic/Grand Marquis body style. Automatic.

BMW 330Ci Coupe - 225hp - $35k - I dont get why such an underpowered car costs so much. The Volvo outclasses this baby... unless you can tell me something I don't know. Manual.

Cadillac CTS - 255hp - $30k - Beautiful (to some) machine with that classic Cadillac ride. I'm really wary of American cars though. Manual.

Acura CL 3.2 - 260hp - $31K - Honda reliability... but I all ready OWN a Honda.. I DO want some change. Still, though, this car is not a bad choice. Manual.

Honda S2000 - 240hp - $32k - I don't know anything about owning a convertible. I don't have a garage for my car, though. This is a cool car, but my living situation may not be favorable. Manual.

Lexus SC400 - 220hp(??) - ?? - I'd have to buy this used of course. It's pretty much the only car I'd even consider buying used.

If you have any input, just to help me understand these cars a bit better, it would be appreciated. I'm looking forward to the future.

Rippley · 11-12-2003, 02:36 AM

Ooh! Ooh! Ooh!! Get the Impreza! Getitgetitgetitgetit!!! Ok, I'm done now.

In the more rational corner, what are you looking for? Those are some very different cars you mention there... Consider your priorities in what you want from a car, and you should be able to eliminate some of that list.

As to the differences between the Volvo and the BMW. Well, as I see it there are several reason why the BMW is more expensive:
1: Its a BMW. They've got an image thing going on. That's just the way it is.
2: The Volvo may have more power, but I think you'll find the BMW more fun to drive. They handle very differently. I won't say one's better than the other, as I might get lynched, but they are different, and its a call you'll have to make .
3: The BMW's german. I don't know how it works in the US, but in Europe its my impression that the BMW will keep its price for longer, and that the build quality is just a little bit better. Feel free to correct me...

As for the list in general, those are some nice rides, dude. Hope you find the right one.

Pragma · 11-12-2003, 05:59 AM

Personally, I love the STi -- but the only problem, at least as far as you're concerned, is that luxury features aren't really gonna happen with the STi. If memory serves correctly, the "default options" for the STi don't include floor mats or a radio, for example.

After that, the 2004 Honda S2000 is a great car, very nimble and quick -- one of Honda's few RWD cars. Since you don't have a garage, you just have to make sure to leave the top up overnight - a friend of mine has a convertible Trans Am he parks outside all of the time, and it's fine, as long as leaves the top up.

While you're looking at BMWs, I figured I'd just toss in the M3, another car I like (but is pretty expensive).

Cynthetiq · 11-12-2003, 07:22 AM

One thing that I was told while I was in Munchen (Munich) home of Bavarian Motor Works, is that they have never in the history of the company been in the red. That said.. they can charge what they want for it, because well people demand it.

When I was at the BMW/MINI dealer this past weekend, the dealers just sat there. The price was the price, no haggling, no discussing. Here's the bottom line, period. It was a bit weird, even the MINI sales people were like that.

2004 M3 Sticker prices was $65,0000.

KeyserSoze · 11-12-2003, 07:35 AM

Halx,

Go with the SC400.

For one thing it's a Lexus and will last a very.......very long time. It also holds it's value very well,looks great,and is extremley comfortable.

The only other car I would suggest is the Acura.....SWEEEET RIDE!

Now if you want, I could always find you a pre-owned Mercedes SL500

in the mid 30's

laconic1 · 11-12-2003, 08:22 AM

I personally like the Cadillac CTS. I haven't driven one yet, but I sat in one at the SEMA show last week, and it was very nice. Also, GM has come a long way with their build quality, having worked at a Chevrolet dealer I can attest to the improvement in each generation of vehicles GM comes out with. I personally am hoping to be able to afford the CTS-V when it comes out. 400 horsepower 5.7 V8 with 6 speed manual and other performance goodies.

Scorps · 11-12-2003, 09:30 AM

Infiniti G35 Coupe

or

Cadillac CTS

Infiniti got some balls, but I like the look of the new cady

absorbentishe · 11-12-2003, 09:50 AM

I've riden in the CTS and the SC400. The caddie is awesome, the pickup, ride, I fell in love with it. As for the SC400, a guy at work has one, and he races it in SCCA, and the pick up is great, the breaking is great, and it's a Lexus. As for the quality of the caddie, they were ranked #1 by JD Power last year, they've gone back to quality. Just my $.02.

Halx · 11-12-2003, 10:09 AM

So, right now, I'm a young buck. I'm looking for a car that I can hit turns with at 40mph. I'm ALSO looking for a car that I can be comfortable in for a long time.

I just drove my Accord for 20 hours over a 2 day period, and I was very comfortable the whole way - I want that kinda feel, but in a more powerful car. It doesn't NEED to be more agile, I mean, the only reason I can hit turns hard in my automatic tranny Accord is 'cause it's got a 2.5" drop, otherwise I would normally drop a gear when I make the turn.

The G35 is a big draw for me, but I am so hesitant to pull the trigger on it because it has absolutely no storage space... granted, it has more than a corvette, but once again, I just drove 20 hours for what? To move my girlfriend and ALL HER STUFF from Utah to here. I'd like to be able to do that in the future.

The Volvo and the Cadillac are really high on my list next to the G35. With the Volvo, I get everything I need, in a slightly more dignified and practical package. The Caddy is all about class too. They won't be MUCH of an engine upgrade, but they'll be cars that my mom can work on her needle point crafts in while sitting in the passenger seat because they are so smooth.

The Impreza would be all about fun. Very few luxury features.. I'd probably have to put them in aftermarket. Does it have any storage space? I'd hope so.

I think I've decided that I'll save the BMW for my midlife crisis.

The Acura and Honda come next on my list. Zippy cars with the same feel as my Accord... while they are both perfectly awesome and desirable cars.. they would be more of the same - just and engine upgrade. If someone has a good arguement for these cars over the rest, let me hear it.

The SC400 has been a subtle favorite for me when I pass it on the road. It's very sporty and it's very clean. The only thing is that it's gotta be used... if I can find one used, I have to consider WHY it's no longer wanted by it's owner. Hmmm.. I don't wanna inherit someone else's problems.

Keyser, if you can find me an SL500 for that much, I WOULD PISS MY PANTS! Holy shit! Even the old models are fucking sexy as hell. How did you KNOW!?!

Peryn · 11-12-2003, 10:51 AM

Are those the only cars your interested in? Just from looking at your list, have you thought about maybe :

Saab 9-3 Aero Sedan (4 door) : 210 HP turbo I4. 3100 lbs (relatively light these days) 22/31 mpg. Saab safety. 32k good cargo space.

Mercedes c230 Sport Coupe : 189 Supercharged HP, 25k. Small sport coupe, handles really well. Supercharged

Mercedes luxory and reliability 3200lbs, optional AWD.

Audi a6 2.7t : 250 Turbocharged v6 HP, 42k (used would be a tad cheaper). or even the a4 Quattro 3.0 (220hp and 34k). Audi safety, AWD.

Chrysler Crossfire : 215 HP 33k. Mercedes based, handles well. Looks are very nice to some, not so good to others. Saw a Road & Track thing on it and it pulls really strong at the higher speeds. First year car though, not always a good thing.

Pontiac GTO : 350HP, 33k. Not quite the luxory kinda cars you were thinking about, but a lot of power in a cheap car. Again, first year car though

Anyway, just some cars that seem to fit your descriptions you may want to look at. Maybe not. Of the cars you have listed though, i think the most practical (for most people) car on there that could still be a lot of fun is the Volvo. If practicality isn't as big of an issue, that SC400 looks to be a badass car.

Halx · 11-12-2003, 11:28 AM

Peryn, I wont go for Saab or Mercedes C class because of build quality. Same with Audi.

Chrysler and Pontiac are American cars, which I've said I am wary of. The GTO is very enticing (albeit not even on the market yet), but i remember in the early 90's, Pontiac was known for it's really shitty build quality and I don't know if they've outgrown that. Pointing out first year cars is a big deal too.. thanks for bringing that to my attention.

zfleebin · 11-12-2003, 11:42 AM

My sister has a g35 and I think its a wonderful car but for the price I would say look at a srt-4. I sat in a srt-4 a couple days ago and it was surprisingly comfortable and I dont even need to mention the power it has or the upgrades that are already out for it.

merkerguitars · 11-12-2003, 02:12 PM

The Infiniti would be a nice choice since its a premium issan. I have never heard a bad thing about any Infiniti. I heard nothing but good things about an Infiniti. The Cadillac is definately a nice choice, and no matter how many people bicker about it being an american car the new caddys are so high quality it isn't worth arguing about. The caddys are good build quality pretty much because they are trying to make up for the bad reputation they had in the 80's. The only thing I don't like about the CTS model is it doesn't have the northstar engine

. But the specs on the 3.6 v6 are pretty impressive.

pocon1 · 11-12-2003, 02:22 PM

The GtO is built from the Holden Monaro in Australia, which has been around for several years. The engine is stock corvette, as well as the transmissions(auto and manual). Road & Track says that about 20% of the parts were switched out for America. For instance, their heater was not as good(not important in the desert). Certainly seems sportier than a mercury marauder.

Snakebyt · 11-12-2003, 03:00 PM

Subaru Impreza WRX STi would be my choice. its a great looking car to start off with, the performance is great, and it has some room if you need to haul around a few buddies.

HunterDevourer · 11-12-2003, 03:15 PM

Halx, not sure if you're interested, but a site you could find useful when finding peoples opinions on cars through ownership is http://www.carsurvey.org . Can see some of the things that have gone wrong with cars through experience, but some might also just have bad luck. Anyway, was useful for me when me and my brother considered our first car a couple of months ago. (Skyline r31).

KeyserSoze · 11-12-2003, 10:17 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Halx

Keyser, if you can find me an SL500 for that much, I WOULD PISS MY PANTS! Holy shit! Even the old models are fucking sexy as hell. How did you KNOW!?!

Ask and I shall find...............did you forget I'm in the WHOLESALE DEPARTMENT!!

Give me a couple of color choices and I'll see what I can steal from someone

oh...and I am talking about the SL before the new body change........ PRE 2003...sorry if I wasn't more specific.

Mitzkrieg · 11-13-2003, 12:08 AM

the new acura tl....

i've got a 2002 tl and love it. excellent power and handling. the new tl is a big improvement and it's got great options.

dangsta · 11-13-2003, 01:32 AM

id go with the 330ci... its quick, handles incredibly (friend has one het lets me drive it ever so often) and i think it looks the cleanest out of them. although an STi would be cool.. its just not practical. the g35 is coming out with an awd version.. you should look into that too.

acpower · 11-13-2003, 03:01 AM

Subaru Impreza WRX STi!! 4 doors to hold 4 other hot women and a killer engine to bring them home fast for more time in bed!

If you want luxury, for sure go with the Infiniti G35 Coupe.. They are absolutely beautiful, even if they're popular (just like BMW's..).

bobby · 11-13-2003, 08:50 AM

went to auto show last week looking for a mid sized sedan for the wife...leather,heated seats and a sun roof were her only wishes....ended up with a mazda RX8 !!!! take a look at it...fantastic and a little bit practical.....bobby xoxoxoo

madsenj37 · 11-14-2003, 03:12 PM

What about the subaru wrx, none STI model. They started adding luxaries like leather and moon roofs recently. Unlike the STI it has a stereo. It has awd which is nice in all weather, but especially wet conditions. Plenty of power and it doesnt have the ridiculous wing the STI does.

I also recomend the rx-8 because I just got one, but it doesnt have the space your looking for. But its a looker, fun to drive, smooth feeling, light, handles well and did I mention smooth.

Whatever you get I recommend against front wheel drive. Go all wheel or rear wheel drive. You will not regret it.

Tiser · 11-15-2003, 07:11 AM

Two of my faves on that list would be the G35 and the S2k. Both are beautiful cars with aftermarket support, made by good companies. But if you are concerned about trunk space in the G35 than the S2k is no better. You could have an s2k as a daily driver and it fares well, but I would want something more practical for every day, and bring out the convertible on the weekends. They just upped the displacement and made the car less twitchy... a little more refined, very nice. As far as the STi, which is also a great machine... theres no question that its the best handling and most powerful of the bunch - but its more of a "hairy chested testosterone infused economy car" as one reviewer put it. You won't find any luxury there.

If you are going to stay with one car, I would say the Acura. It isn't #1 in any category but its a great all-rounder. Incredible reliability, decent room, comfortable ride. Not slow by any means. Some aftermarket support. It will hold its value very well. Since they've just canned the CL I'm sure you can find it for a good price.

Halx · 11-15-2003, 12:26 PM

Can anyone else tell me what they know about the CTS? So far this car has real draw for me, after thinking about it. It looks like no other car on the road. Is it's engine easy to tweak? Know anyone who has it and what is their opinion?

Halx · 11-15-2003, 12:28 PM

Also, thanks for everyone's input.. the RX-8 was considered, but once again, it's American. I don't know why I have this thing against Yankee engines, but the Caddy is one of the only home grown cars I like enough.

Peryn · 11-15-2003, 12:44 PM

rx-8 american? no. Ford has a small portion of Mazda under their control, but the rx-8 is wholely Japanese Mazda. Ford is using some of thier innovations in upcoming cars, particularly the Jag concept that was posted on here not too long ago, but there isn't a whole lot of Ford in the RX-8. The engine and the whole rotary thing is 0% Ford. Mazda has been the only company putting the rotary into production cars, and they have been doing it for quite a number of years now. Im not sure about the transmission, it might be ford, might not, but transmissions dont seem to matter weather its american or not... at least not im my experience. Anyway, you've made up your mind, and no sense in me trying to change it.

As for teh CTS, i have heard nothing but good things about it and its reliablility and fun to drive factor. I have heard its a bit of a pain to work on....but seems most new cars these days are. I have also found it to be a very comfortable car, though i have never driven it. Most of the things i have heard basically said to wait for the CTS-V as the performance and everything is supposed to be significantly better.

Kurant · 11-15-2003, 03:04 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by madsenj37
What about the subaru wrx, none STI model. They started adding luxaries like leather and moon roofs recently. Unlike the STI it has a stereo. It has awd which is nice in all weather, but especially wet conditions. Plenty of power and it doesnt have the ridiculous wing the STI does.

It may look stupid, but it's completely functional, it actully serves a purpose, it's not a 16 year kid with a carbon fiber wing on his Grand Am to make it look cool, it actully does somthing.

Personally, I think the CTS is a bit "square" for my tastes, then again, everything GM stamps the Caddy symbol on is a bit square these days. However, Motor Trend asked the question after a review, Could the CTS be Cadillac's "perfect car?".

Your obviously looking in the 30k range, I would suggest the BMW (I'm a bit biased) or the Acura. If you want AWD for 30k, and a little luxury to boot, you might want to look into an A4 Quattro.

Halx · 11-16-2003, 12:53 AM

I wish I could afford the CTS-V .. 400hp.. heh.. 49k.. no fucking way.

So today I went around the big auto mall around here and I took a closeup look at the CTS and the Volvo. The CTS has a great setup with a ton of luxury. The price is a bit much of a markup in this area, they claim because of the bumper quality. I love the beefy, menacing size of the thing! The back seats don't have much more room than my accord COUPE's, and I don't think I'll find ANYTHING with as much trunk space. The Volvo is a very boring car to look at. The dealership was empty (the salesman actually came out to meet me instead of me having to go inside to attract someone) so I think despite the incredible markup for this euro import, the price coule be haggled. The inside was flat and uninteresting... a very strange transmission that can change from manual to automatic on the fly. Once I saw the interior and the trunk (same size as the CTS) I was instantly turned off.

The Lexus dealership wouldn't give me the time of day.. fuckholes.

The Mazda/Subaru dealership had nothing encouraging to say to me when I told them that I wanted luxury features on my car. The guy just shrugged. No climate control, no stereo (wtf?), no nothin' - who can drive that WRX? Even the RX-8 was way skimpy. The design is not my style and there is a lack of room.

So, we're down to a few cars...
Caddy CTS, Acura CL (still need to check that out), BMW 3-series, Lexus SC400, Infiniti G35.

I saw an Infiniti M45 on the road the other day. I really like it's design and it's a beefy car... I cant find a price tag on it yet though.

wrongfullyaccuzd · 11-17-2003, 01:29 AM

sti...i'm gonna repeat what everyone else said and mention the lack of luxury...srt-4 tp save some money...otherwise, infiniti sounds like it has what you want.

Pragma · 11-17-2003, 06:39 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Halx
The Mazda/Subaru dealership had nothing encouraging to say to me when I told them that I wanted luxury features on my car. The guy just shrugged. No climate control, no stereo (wtf?), no nothin' - who can drive that WRX? Even the RX-8 was way skimpy. The design is not my style and there is a lack of room.

According to Subaru's website, you can get the "extra features" like climate control and stereo on the STi, but they just don't come standard. I'm not sure what the dealership was up to, maybe they just weren't being friendly or didn't want the sale.

MSD · 11-17-2003, 03:01 PM

The STi doesnt come with A/C, if I recall. That's what killed it for me. As for the CTS, shifting feels smooth, power is more than adequate, and you can put Corvette parts on the engine. Feels good, looks good, drives well. I'd go for it.

merkerguitars · 11-17-2003, 04:40 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Halx

The Lexus dealership wouldn't give me the time of day.. fuckholes.

Heh sounds like when I went to a big fancy cadillac dealer. If your not old and rich they won't do a damn thing for yah. I gotta admit the CTS has a mean look to it. I'm not sure what you can do for engine mods but there has to be something you can do, the only thing i've heard about is supercharging....

potato · 11-17-2003, 04:51 PM

Acura Cl Type S....Luxury, speed, great price, good fuel economy, known reliabitlty

thadon · 11-18-2003, 12:04 PM

glancing through I did not see the Lexus IS300 mentioned. It is a very good bang for the buck car w/ a great combo of lux and sport.

You mentioned the G35 .. I'm all for it seeing as it shares the same engine as the 350Z and is kin to the Z and the all too awesome Nissan Skyline.

So I look at the G35 sedan as the perfect start of a killer street demon b/c I am sure the Skyline parts will soon be avail in the US and will fit the G35

Halx · 11-18-2003, 04:10 PM

I test drove the CTS yesterday. I really liked how it handled... and I had the salesman fretting for his life. The only problem is that the 30k model they list is the bare bones one. The one I want is easily 8k more ... ouch.

11-12-2003, 02:08 AM	#1 (permalink)
Halx Please touch this. Owner/Admin Location: Manhattan	Practical Dreaming So, I figure... if life gets any better, I may just get a new car. I mean, I love my Accord, but when you're going well, you gotta live well too. Here are my choices... so far Infiniti G35 Coupe - 280hp - $32k - It's beautiful, but WAY popular. It's quick, but it has hardly enough storage for a beginner's golf bag. Manual. Subaru Impreza WRX STi - 300hp - $30k - It's a city machine with a rally suspension. Quick.. I am not sure about luxury features. Manual. Volvo S60 T5 - 247hp - $32k - Safe, roomy, luxurious. Not as much quickness, but a very smooth ride. Manual. Mercury Marauder - 302hp - $32k - Ok, I don't really want this 'grandpa' car. It would be bitchin' if it wasn't on the Crown Vic/Grand Marquis body style. Automatic. BMW 330Ci Coupe - 225hp - $35k - I dont get why such an underpowered car costs so much. The Volvo outclasses this baby... unless you can tell me something I don't know. Manual. Cadillac CTS - 255hp - $30k - Beautiful (to some) machine with that classic Cadillac ride. I'm really wary of American cars though. Manual. Acura CL 3.2 - 260hp - $31K - Honda reliability... but I all ready OWN a Honda.. I DO want some change. Still, though, this car is not a bad choice. Manual. Honda S2000 - 240hp - $32k - I don't know anything about owning a convertible. I don't have a garage for my car, though. This is a cool car, but my living situation may not be favorable. Manual. Lexus SC400 - 220hp(??) - ?? - I'd have to buy this used of course. It's pretty much the only car I'd even consider buying used. If you have any input, just to help me understand these cars a bit better, it would be appreciated. I'm looking forward to the future. __________________ You have found this post informative. -The Administrator [Don't Feed The Animals]

11-12-2003, 02:36 AM	#2 (permalink)
Rippley Insane	Ooh! Ooh! Ooh!! Get the Impreza! Getitgetitgetitgetit!!! Ok, I'm done now. In the more rational corner, what are you looking for? Those are some very different cars you mention there... Consider your priorities in what you want from a car, and you should be able to eliminate some of that list. As to the differences between the Volvo and the BMW. Well, as I see it there are several reason why the BMW is more expensive: 1: Its a BMW. They've got an image thing going on. That's just the way it is. 2: The Volvo may have more power, but I think you'll find the BMW more fun to drive. They handle very differently. I won't say one's better than the other, as I might get lynched, but they are different, and its a call you'll have to make . 3: The BMW's german. I don't know how it works in the US, but in Europe its my impression that the BMW will keep its price for longer, and that the build quality is just a little bit better. Feel free to correct me... As for the list in general, those are some nice rides, dude. Hope you find the right one. __________________ roadrazer - 300kgs, 300hp = pure fun.

11-12-2003, 05:59 AM	#3 (permalink)
Pragma I am Winter Born Location: Alexandria, VA	Personally, I love the STi -- but the only problem, at least as far as you're concerned, is that luxury features aren't really gonna happen with the STi. If memory serves correctly, the "default options" for the STi don't include floor mats or a radio, for example. After that, the 2004 Honda S2000 is a great car, very nimble and quick -- one of Honda's few RWD cars. Since you don't have a garage, you just have to make sure to leave the top up overnight - a friend of mine has a convertible Trans Am he parks outside all of the time, and it's fine, as long as leaves the top up. While you're looking at BMWs, I figured I'd just toss in the M3, another car I like (but is pretty expensive). __________________ Eat antimatter, Posleen-boy!

11-12-2003, 07:22 AM	#4 (permalink)
Cynthetiq Tilted Cat Head Administrator Location: Manhattan, NY	One thing that I was told while I was in Munchen (Munich) home of Bavarian Motor Works, is that they have never in the history of the company been in the red. That said.. they can charge what they want for it, because well people demand it. When I was at the BMW/MINI dealer this past weekend, the dealers just sat there. The price was the price, no haggling, no discussing. Here's the bottom line, period. It was a bit weird, even the MINI sales people were like that. 2004 M3 Sticker prices was $65,0000. __________________ I don't care if you are black, white, purple, green, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, hippie, cop, bum, admin, user, English, Irish, French, Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, Buddhist, Muslim, indian, cowboy, tall, short, fat, skinny, emo, punk, mod, rocker, straight, gay, lesbian, jock, nerd, geek, Democrat, Republican, Libertarian, Independent, driver, pedestrian, or bicyclist, either you're an asshole or you're not. What's the best nation in the world? DO-NATION! Last edited by Cynthetiq; 11-12-2003 at 07:30 AM..

11-12-2003, 07:35 AM	#5 (permalink)
KeyserSoze Psycho Location: Lost Angeles	Halx, Go with the SC400. For one thing it's a Lexus and will last a very.......very long time. It also holds it's value very well,looks great,and is extremley comfortable. The only other car I would suggest is the Acura.....SWEEEET RIDE! Now if you want, I could always find you a pre-owned Mercedes SL500 in the mid 30's __________________ THERE IS NO KEYSER SOZE!!

11-12-2003, 08:22 AM	#6 (permalink)
laconic1 Junkie	I personally like the Cadillac CTS. I haven't driven one yet, but I sat in one at the SEMA show last week, and it was very nice. Also, GM has come a long way with their build quality, having worked at a Chevrolet dealer I can attest to the improvement in each generation of vehicles GM comes out with. I personally am hoping to be able to afford the CTS-V when it comes out. 400 horsepower 5.7 V8 with 6 speed manual and other performance goodies.

11-12-2003, 09:30 AM	#7 (permalink)
Scorps Lost!! Location: Kingston, Ontario	Infiniti G35 Coupe or Cadillac CTS Infiniti got some balls, but I like the look of the new cady

11-12-2003, 09:50 AM	#8 (permalink)
absorbentishe Boy am I horny today Location: T O L E D O, Toledo!!	I've riden in the CTS and the SC400. The caddie is awesome, the pickup, ride, I fell in love with it. As for the SC400, a guy at work has one, and he races it in SCCA, and the pick up is great, the breaking is great, and it's a Lexus. As for the quality of the caddie, they were ranked #1 by JD Power last year, they've gone back to quality. Just my $.02.

11-12-2003, 10:09 AM	#9 (permalink)
Halx Please touch this. Owner/Admin Location: Manhattan	So, right now, I'm a young buck. I'm looking for a car that I can hit turns with at 40mph. I'm ALSO looking for a car that I can be comfortable in for a long time. I just drove my Accord for 20 hours over a 2 day period, and I was very comfortable the whole way - I want that kinda feel, but in a more powerful car. It doesn't NEED to be more agile, I mean, the only reason I can hit turns hard in my automatic tranny Accord is 'cause it's got a 2.5" drop, otherwise I would normally drop a gear when I make the turn. The G35 is a big draw for me, but I am so hesitant to pull the trigger on it because it has absolutely no storage space... granted, it has more than a corvette, but once again, I just drove 20 hours for what? To move my girlfriend and ALL HER STUFF from Utah to here. I'd like to be able to do that in the future. The Volvo and the Cadillac are really high on my list next to the G35. With the Volvo, I get everything I need, in a slightly more dignified and practical package. The Caddy is all about class too. They won't be MUCH of an engine upgrade, but they'll be cars that my mom can work on her needle point crafts in while sitting in the passenger seat because they are so smooth. The Impreza would be all about fun. Very few luxury features.. I'd probably have to put them in aftermarket. Does it have any storage space? I'd hope so. I think I've decided that I'll save the BMW for my midlife crisis. The Acura and Honda come next on my list. Zippy cars with the same feel as my Accord... while they are both perfectly awesome and desirable cars.. they would be more of the same - just and engine upgrade. If someone has a good arguement for these cars over the rest, let me hear it. The SC400 has been a subtle favorite for me when I pass it on the road. It's very sporty and it's very clean. The only thing is that it's gotta be used... if I can find one used, I have to consider WHY it's no longer wanted by it's owner. Hmmm.. I don't wanna inherit someone else's problems. Keyser, if you can find me an SL500 for that much, I WOULD PISS MY PANTS! Holy shit! Even the old models are fucking sexy as hell. How did you KNOW!?! __________________ You have found this post informative. -The Administrator [Don't Feed The Animals]

11-12-2003, 10:51 AM	#10 (permalink)
Peryn Junkie Location: San Diego, CA.	Are those the only cars your interested in? Just from looking at your list, have you thought about maybe : Saab 9-3 Aero Sedan (4 door) : 210 HP turbo I4. 3100 lbs (relatively light these days) 22/31 mpg. Saab safety. 32k good cargo space. Mercedes c230 Sport Coupe : 189 Supercharged HP, 25k. Small sport coupe, handles really well. Supercharged Mercedes luxory and reliability 3200lbs, optional AWD. Audi a6 2.7t : 250 Turbocharged v6 HP, 42k (used would be a tad cheaper). or even the a4 Quattro 3.0 (220hp and 34k). Audi safety, AWD. Chrysler Crossfire : 215 HP 33k. Mercedes based, handles well. Looks are very nice to some, not so good to others. Saw a Road & Track thing on it and it pulls really strong at the higher speeds. First year car though, not always a good thing. Pontiac GTO : 350HP, 33k. Not quite the luxory kinda cars you were thinking about, but a lot of power in a cheap car. Again, first year car though Anyway, just some cars that seem to fit your descriptions you may want to look at. Maybe not. Of the cars you have listed though, i think the most practical (for most people) car on there that could still be a lot of fun is the Volvo. If practicality isn't as big of an issue, that SC400 looks to be a badass car. __________________ Dont cry kid, It's not your fault you suck.

11-12-2003, 11:28 AM	#11 (permalink)
Halx Please touch this. Owner/Admin Location: Manhattan	Peryn, I wont go for Saab or Mercedes C class because of build quality. Same with Audi. Chrysler and Pontiac are American cars, which I've said I am wary of. The GTO is very enticing (albeit not even on the market yet), but i remember in the early 90's, Pontiac was known for it's really shitty build quality and I don't know if they've outgrown that. Pointing out first year cars is a big deal too.. thanks for bringing that to my attention. __________________ You have found this post informative. -The Administrator [Don't Feed The Animals]

11-12-2003, 11:42 AM	#12 (permalink)
zfleebin Addict	My sister has a g35 and I think its a wonderful car but for the price I would say look at a srt-4. I sat in a srt-4 a couple days ago and it was surprisingly comfortable and I dont even need to mention the power it has or the upgrades that are already out for it.

11-12-2003, 02:12 PM	#13 (permalink)
merkerguitars Buffering......... Location: Wisconsin...	The Infiniti would be a nice choice since its a premium issan. I have never heard a bad thing about any Infiniti. I heard nothing but good things about an Infiniti. The Cadillac is definately a nice choice, and no matter how many people bicker about it being an american car the new caddys are so high quality it isn't worth arguing about. The caddys are good build quality pretty much because they are trying to make up for the bad reputation they had in the 80's. The only thing I don't like about the CTS model is it doesn't have the northstar engine . But the specs on the 3.6 v6 are pretty impressive. __________________ Donate now! Ask me How! Please use the search function it is your friend. Look at my mustang please feel free to comment! http://www.tfproject.org/tfp/showthread.php?t=26985

11-12-2003, 02:22 PM	#14 (permalink)
pocon1 Banned	The GtO is built from the Holden Monaro in Australia, which has been around for several years. The engine is stock corvette, as well as the transmissions(auto and manual). Road & Track says that about 20% of the parts were switched out for America. For instance, their heater was not as good(not important in the desert). Certainly seems sportier than a mercury marauder.

11-12-2003, 03:00 PM	#15 (permalink)
Snakebyt Psycho Location: Lubbock Texas	Subaru Impreza WRX STi would be my choice. its a great looking car to start off with, the performance is great, and it has some room if you need to haul around a few buddies.

11-12-2003, 03:15 PM	#16 (permalink)
HunterDevourer Insane Location: Sydney - Australia	Halx, not sure if you're interested, but a site you could find useful when finding peoples opinions on cars through ownership is http://www.carsurvey.org . Can see some of the things that have gone wrong with cars through experience, but some might also just have bad luck. Anyway, was useful for me when me and my brother considered our first car a couple of months ago. (Skyline r31). __________________ Viva La Muerte

11-13-2003, 12:08 AM	#18 (permalink)
Mitzkrieg Insane	the new acura tl.... i've got a 2002 tl and love it. excellent power and handling. the new tl is a big improvement and it's got great options.

11-13-2003, 01:32 AM	#19 (permalink)
dangsta Upright	id go with the 330ci... its quick, handles incredibly (friend has one het lets me drive it ever so often) and i think it looks the cleanest out of them. although an STi would be cool.. its just not practical. the g35 is coming out with an awd version.. you should look into that too.

11-13-2003, 03:01 AM	#20 (permalink)
acpower Crazy	Subaru Impreza WRX STi!! 4 doors to hold 4 other hot women and a killer engine to bring them home fast for more time in bed! If you want luxury, for sure go with the Infiniti G35 Coupe.. They are absolutely beautiful, even if they're popular (just like BMW's..).

11-13-2003, 08:50 AM	#21 (permalink)
bobby Super Moderator Location: 18,000+ posts on TFP #1,2,3,4 and 5,but I'm not counting!	went to auto show last week looking for a mid sized sedan for the wife...leather,heated seats and a sun roof were her only wishes....ended up with a mazda RX8 !!!! take a look at it...fantastic and a little bit practical.....bobby xoxoxoo __________________ "Life goes on,within you,and...with out you !" xoxoxoo

11-14-2003, 03:12 PM	#22 (permalink)
madsenj37 Still searching... Location: NorCal For Life	What about the subaru wrx, none STI model. They started adding luxaries like leather and moon roofs recently. Unlike the STI it has a stereo. It has awd which is nice in all weather, but especially wet conditions. Plenty of power and it doesnt have the ridiculous wing the STI does. I also recomend the rx-8 because I just got one, but it doesnt have the space your looking for. But its a looker, fun to drive, smooth feeling, light, handles well and did I mention smooth. Whatever you get I recommend against front wheel drive. Go all wheel or rear wheel drive. You will not regret it. __________________ "Only two things are certain: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not certain about the universe." -- Albert Einstein

11-15-2003, 07:11 AM	#23 (permalink)
Tiser Crazy Location: Some big island.	Two of my faves on that list would be the G35 and the S2k. Both are beautiful cars with aftermarket support, made by good companies. But if you are concerned about trunk space in the G35 than the S2k is no better. You could have an s2k as a daily driver and it fares well, but I would want something more practical for every day, and bring out the convertible on the weekends. They just upped the displacement and made the car less twitchy... a little more refined, very nice. As far as the STi, which is also a great machine... theres no question that its the best handling and most powerful of the bunch - but its more of a "hairy chested testosterone infused economy car" as one reviewer put it. You won't find any luxury there. If you are going to stay with one car, I would say the Acura. It isn't #1 in any category but its a great all-rounder. Incredible reliability, decent room, comfortable ride. Not slow by any means. Some aftermarket support. It will hold its value very well. Since they've just canned the CL I'm sure you can find it for a good price.

11-15-2003, 12:26 PM	#24 (permalink)
Halx Please touch this. Owner/Admin Location: Manhattan	Can anyone else tell me what they know about the CTS? So far this car has real draw for me, after thinking about it. It looks like no other car on the road. Is it's engine easy to tweak? Know anyone who has it and what is their opinion? __________________ You have found this post informative. -The Administrator [Don't Feed The Animals]

11-15-2003, 12:28 PM	#25 (permalink)
Halx Please touch this. Owner/Admin Location: Manhattan	Also, thanks for everyone's input.. the RX-8 was considered, but once again, it's American. I don't know why I have this thing against Yankee engines, but the Caddy is one of the only home grown cars I like enough. __________________ You have found this post informative. -The Administrator [Don't Feed The Animals]

11-15-2003, 12:44 PM	#26 (permalink)
Peryn Junkie Location: San Diego, CA.	rx-8 american? no. Ford has a small portion of Mazda under their control, but the rx-8 is wholely Japanese Mazda. Ford is using some of thier innovations in upcoming cars, particularly the Jag concept that was posted on here not too long ago, but there isn't a whole lot of Ford in the RX-8. The engine and the whole rotary thing is 0% Ford. Mazda has been the only company putting the rotary into production cars, and they have been doing it for quite a number of years now. Im not sure about the transmission, it might be ford, might not, but transmissions dont seem to matter weather its american or not... at least not im my experience. Anyway, you've made up your mind, and no sense in me trying to change it. As for teh CTS, i have heard nothing but good things about it and its reliablility and fun to drive factor. I have heard its a bit of a pain to work on....but seems most new cars these days are. I have also found it to be a very comfortable car, though i have never driven it. Most of the things i have heard basically said to wait for the CTS-V as the performance and everything is supposed to be significantly better. __________________ Dont cry kid, It's not your fault you suck.

11-16-2003, 12:53 AM	#28 (permalink)
Halx Please touch this. Owner/Admin Location: Manhattan	I wish I could afford the CTS-V .. 400hp.. heh.. 49k.. no fucking way. So today I went around the big auto mall around here and I took a closeup look at the CTS and the Volvo. The CTS has a great setup with a ton of luxury. The price is a bit much of a markup in this area, they claim because of the bumper quality. I love the beefy, menacing size of the thing! The back seats don't have much more room than my accord COUPE's, and I don't think I'll find ANYTHING with as much trunk space. The Volvo is a very boring car to look at. The dealership was empty (the salesman actually came out to meet me instead of me having to go inside to attract someone) so I think despite the incredible markup for this euro import, the price coule be haggled. The inside was flat and uninteresting... a very strange transmission that can change from manual to automatic on the fly. Once I saw the interior and the trunk (same size as the CTS) I was instantly turned off. The Lexus dealership wouldn't give me the time of day.. fuckholes. The Mazda/Subaru dealership had nothing encouraging to say to me when I told them that I wanted luxury features on my car. The guy just shrugged. No climate control, no stereo (wtf?), no nothin' - who can drive that WRX? Even the RX-8 was way skimpy. The design is not my style and there is a lack of room. So, we're down to a few cars... Caddy CTS, Acura CL (still need to check that out), BMW 3-series, Lexus SC400, Infiniti G35. I saw an Infiniti M45 on the road the other day. I really like it's design and it's a beefy car... I cant find a price tag on it yet though. __________________ You have found this post informative. -The Administrator [Don't Feed The Animals]

11-17-2003, 01:29 AM	#29 (permalink)
wrongfullyaccuzd Addict Location: NoVA	sti...i'm gonna repeat what everyone else said and mention the lack of luxury...srt-4 tp save some money...otherwise, infiniti sounds like it has what you want.

11-17-2003, 03:01 PM	#31 (permalink)
MSD The sky calls to us ... Super Moderator Location: CT	The STi doesnt come with A/C, if I recall. That's what killed it for me. As for the CTS, shifting feels smooth, power is more than adequate, and you can put Corvette parts on the engine. Feels good, looks good, drives well. I'd go for it.

11-17-2003, 04:51 PM	#33 (permalink)
potato Banned	Acura Cl Type S....Luxury, speed, great price, good fuel economy, known reliabitlty

11-18-2003, 12:04 PM	#34 (permalink)
thadon Cruisin thru life Location: Alpharetta, GA	glancing through I did not see the Lexus IS300 mentioned. It is a very good bang for the buck car w/ a great combo of lux and sport. You mentioned the G35 .. I'm all for it seeing as it shares the same engine as the 350Z and is kin to the Z and the all too awesome Nissan Skyline. So I look at the G35 sedan as the perfect start of a killer street demon b/c I am sure the Skyline parts will soon be avail in the US and will fit the G35

11-18-2003, 04:10 PM	#35 (permalink)
Halx Please touch this. Owner/Admin Location: Manhattan	I test drove the CTS yesterday. I really liked how it handled... and I had the salesman fretting for his life. The only problem is that the 30k model they list is the bare bones one. The one I want is easily 8k more ... ouch. __________________ You have found this post informative. -The Administrator [Don't Feed The Animals]