New Car for the wife.... - Tilted Forum Project Discussion Community

DDDDave · 10-14-2004, 11:11 AM

OK, the wife has a 2000 Honda Accord Coupe that she loves. It has 165K miles and she wants something new. It has the 6cyl VTEC with 200hp. She loves the power. She is a cop and has taken, and taught, high performance driving classes so she knows what she likes.

Here's the rub.....she commutes 125 mi. round trip every day. Leaves at 5pm home at 6am. The car must be uber dependable. Gas mileage is important but not at the expense of POWER. She will not drive puny 4 cyl. POS. (Her words)

We plan to hand the 2000 down to our oldest daughter so therefore will not have a trade or substantial down payment.

She would love a red convertible (wouldn't we all) something. She wants a coupe but it has to have 'real' back seats.

She doesn't like the 2004 Accord coupes (kinda boxy, she says). We have went and test driven the Acura RSX (way too small) and Acura TL (great but this is really a luxury sedan), we tried to drive a TSX but they didn't have any. They are four door and have a 4 cyl. but she was willing to consider it.

She likes the G35, but who doesn't. They are everywhere. 35Grand too.
We're going to test drive a Solara convertible. So, no opinion yet.
Her fave of course is the Lexus SC430 but 55K for a commuter car is kinda dumb.
She's 5'10" so I can't see her in a Miata.
I rented her a MB 230 convertible for a week for her birthday and she loved it but the service costs and reliability rule that one out.

What do you guys think? I was thinking about maybe test driving a Boxster, just to see how she liked it. Would it stand up to the commute?

Any other suggestions? Don't say WRX. She doesn't like them.

Thanks......

1slOwCD8 · 10-14-2004, 03:25 PM

how about the new GTO or is300?

merkerguitars · 10-14-2004, 03:35 PM

Well if you want something with alot of power and you don't really car if it's fwd or rwd and willing to get something a little older...my recommendation is the 97-03 pontiac grand prix gtp...they get about 30-32 gas mileage if your easy on them and about 28 with a little rough driving...they are pretty dependable and easy to work on..plus they have raw power...plus you can find one used with very little miles on them since people don't like to have them as a daily driver and plus alot of punk kids don't own them since if someone young (like me) owned one they couldn't afford the insurance....the new gto's get pretty good gas mileage too...easy to work on and parts are easy to find since it's a normal LS1 engine...if you can wait a year I think they are coming out with a convertible version soon hoping to up sales...

solo2020 · 10-14-2004, 05:24 PM

S2000

That puny 4 cylinder POS will rip most above mentioned cars

powerclown · 10-14-2004, 05:43 PM

Mustang GT Convertible

Halx · 10-14-2004, 06:22 PM

Go back for the TSX. It gets 200hp out of the 4cyl. It's a nice, classy car that's pretty comfy. I Dont think she'll be disappointed at all.

I have a TL and I will swear by it to the end, but if she doesn't like luxury when she drives so much every day... well I can't cure her.

Lockjaw · 10-14-2004, 07:44 PM

Second the vote for the GTO.
Coupe. RWD. 350 horsepower and plenty of room for a 5'10" person and a useable back seat. And the LS1 is one of the best engines ever built and they don't crap out too easily and the gas mileage for the power is pretty good. The styling isn't the greatest but it's not going to be as outrageous and I think it would fit a female cop's personality.
And since the 05 GTOs are about to come out in a few months the 04s are going for dirt cheap because nobody wants to pay the full price for a car that's going to have 50 fewer horses than the newer versions. I've been talking to several folks that are getting them for around 25-26k.
Check out these websites and go hit up a Pontiac dealer
www.newagegto.com
www.ls1gto.com

Willravel · 10-14-2004, 08:15 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Halx

Go back for the TSX. It gets 200hp out of the 4cyl. It's a nice, classy car that's pretty comfy. I Dont think she'll be disappointed at all.

Agreed. The TSX is a perfect replacement for a good Accord. It handels pretty well, it looks good, and it has the power your wife seemingly needs.

Aside from that, try the Chrysler 300 series. It has the HEMI, which means power, but it also is able to shut off 4 cylanders, so it can have great milage when you want. The 300 E base starts at $23,920, and has a 2.7L DOHC 24 valve V6. The 300 Touring starts at $27,720 and has a 3.5L 24 valve V6. The 300 Limited starts at $30,530 and has the same engine as the touring. The 300c (the only one worth buying), starts at $33,495, and has the 5.7L HEMI V8 w/ the multi displacement system. I think, like the Dodge Magnum, it's based on the E-class frame and suspension.

Also, the Mitsubishi Galant seems to be a decent choice. The GTS comes with a 230 hp 3.8L V6 and "Americas #1 warrenty".
The Nissan Maxima is also pretty good. 3.5L V6 285 hp and put you back $29,350.

Craven Morehead · 10-15-2004, 08:48 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by merkerguitars

Well if you want something with alot of power and you don't really car if it's fwd or rwd and willing to get something a little older...my recommendation is the 97-03 pontiac grand prix gtp...they get about 30-32 gas mileage if your easy on them and about 28 with a little rough driving...they are pretty dependable and easy to work on..plus they have raw power...plus you can find one used with very little miles on them since people don't like to have them as a daily driver and plus alot of punk kids don't own them since if someone young (like me) owned one they couldn't afford the insurance....the new gto's get pretty good gas mileage too...easy to work on and parts are easy to find since it's a normal LS1 engine...if you can wait a year I think they are coming out with a convertible version soon hoping to up sales...

Somewhat off topic - in 2004 Pontiac revised the engine in the GTP. Its now the Series III, still supercharged but now w/ 20 more HP, uses regular and is rated for 3mpg more than previous years. So, that's a much better engine than the previous year's.

Scorps · 10-15-2004, 09:29 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lockjaw

Second the vote for the GTO.
Coupe. RWD. 350 horsepower and plenty of room for a 5'10" person and a useable back seat. And the LS1 is one of the best engines ever built and they don't crap out too easily and the gas mileage for the power is pretty good. The styling isn't the greatest but it's not going to be as outrageous and I think it would fit a female cop's personality.
And since the 05 GTOs are about to come out in a few months the 04s are going for dirt cheap because nobody wants to pay the full price for a car that's going to have 50 fewer horses than the newer versions. I've been talking to several folks that are getting them for around 25-26k.
Check out these websites and go hit up a Pontiac dealer
www.newagegto.com
www.ls1gto.com

Damn for a GTO that cheap I would go for it...to bad I don't have to cash!

Halx · 10-15-2004, 12:43 PM

GTO huh? I thought she wanted a reliable car. Preferrably something that looks good too. That's just my opinion.

txgixxer · 10-15-2004, 01:11 PM

I say the TSX as well. I have had one for almost a year coming off a 2000 Accord and have no complaints.

skyfire · 10-15-2004, 01:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Halx

GTO huh? I thought she wanted a reliable car. Preferrably something that looks good too. That's just my opinion.

Yeah, god forbid she doesnt buy a TL

merkerguitars · 10-15-2004, 04:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Halx

GTO huh? I thought she wanted a reliable car. Preferrably something that looks good too. That's just my opinion.

Jeez just cause it's an american car makes it unreliable....

breastboy · 10-15-2004, 04:23 PM

how about the new nissan maxima?

slimpi66y · 10-15-2004, 04:41 PM

I feel for her because I have a long commute myself, I drive a 2003 TSX so I wouldn't recommend it, it's a great toy but the 4 cyl just ain't gonna cut it, there is like no torque until 4500rpm

since she wants reliability, then just stop looking at american cars, just fuck them, period.

the alternatives are Altima 3.5SE, at a great price 25G, it's 3.5 litre V6 at 255 hr, and it's a big arse car. The reliablity is great.

wait, if she's a cop, why isn't she driving a Crown Vic?

Halx · 10-15-2004, 05:12 PM

I was gonna say.. don't cops get some discount from Ford, or whoever supplies their district with vehicles?

Ramega · 10-15-2004, 07:37 PM

We get a discount from Ford through work and it sucks, so those aren't always so good.

New cars are a complete ripoff anyway. A 2-3 year old car generally has 80% of it's life left and has lost 50% of its value. Just be patient and shop for a low mileage used car. I bought my car three years old with 7,000 miles on it. I paid $10,000 less than a new one.

Save the money, keep the used Honda, and buy a house closer to her office!

castex · 10-16-2004, 02:59 AM

Could you stretch to a BMW 645 convertible? If you need four seats any beemer ragtop might fit the bill.
Otherwise, a Boxster would be an excellent choice, commuting just not an issue.
Do try an Elise if you can - as has been said, 4 cylinders can be more than enough, and for someone really interested in driving there is nothing more involving on the market.
Otherwise, my friend loves his S2000 - they're very good value in Europe at least, but the Honda remains a division below both Porsche and Lotus in terms of hooning about

MacGuyver · 10-16-2004, 04:28 AM

Personally I'd go for the TL, Halx is a lucky bastard for having a new one. I drive a 98 3.2TL, and I wouldnt mind the upgrade to 04, but its a great car for it being 8 years old and having the milage that it does. Honda or Acura is the best bet for dependable cars that still perform. Keep working her on the TSX

Quote:

Originally Posted by solo2020

S2000
That puny 4 cylinder POS will rip most above mentioned cars

S2000 = Mazdaspeed Miata

I agree that those WOULD rip, but he said he wouldn't see her driving a Miata.
Same thing with the Lotus Elise. She wants to seat 4 from what it sounds like. I'd suggest fuck american cars as well, becuase they suck.

Suggestions:

Coupe
--- Mazda RX-8: Nice sports style coupe that can seat 4, relatively quick and handles exceptionally agile from what ive heard. Fuel economy might be a little lower than desired.
--- BMW 3-series: Coupe or Sedan, pretty versatile car, great mix of luruxry, with dependability, fuel economy and sports type power and handling. Outside of the Acura TL, it's what I would pick in her situation.

Sedan
---Mazda 6s
---Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution
---Nissan Altima 3.5SL

But I dont know. I'm just a guy with an opinion.

Lockjaw · 10-16-2004, 05:38 AM

It's one thing to say American cars suck if you own a Honda or Toyota.

If you are saying Nissan,Mazda, and Mitsubishi and trying to equate that to reliability...ummm no.

I have a Nissan and it gives me more problems than my Ford does...that's two years older. My sister just bought a brand new Altima(I did my best to talk her out of it)...guess what the engine has already developed a tick.

Nextly if you are saying lump the GTO...based on what? Because it's a Pontiac?
What have you heard about the GTO failing and falling apart?
Is it the engine? Oh wait not that ain't it it's got an LS1 the thing is tough as nails and makes tons of power. It's a performance engine with going on 6 years of useage in Corvettes and Camaros. These things don't just quit on you. In fact would you take a slapped together generic V6 from some schlub of a company that doesn't have near the construction tolerances of a performance engine from GM?

Is it the transmission? I know that ain't it either. It's got a T-56 tranny. Again one the best things you can have or else they wouldn't stick them in Vettes and Vipers.

So what would make you guys say the GTO is "unreliable"?

Willravel · 10-16-2004, 08:20 AM

I agree on the GTO, it is a gerenalization that all american cars suck. Some sucked in the past, and some suck in the present, but it fluctuates. The new mustang (2005 GT) is supposed to vindicate ford for all of it's past crap by being reliable...go figure! I, a former mustang hater, am already on the test drive list. It it delivers what it promises, I will probably buy one.

Edit: And I'll add a supercharger, better suspension, rims, brakes, headers, exhaust, manifold, etc...

Lockjaw · 10-16-2004, 08:40 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by willravel

I agree on the GTO, it is a gerenalization that all american cars suck. Some sucked in the past, and some suck in the present, but it fluctuates. The new mustang (2005 GT) is supposed to vindicate ford for all of it's past crap by being reliable...go figure! I, a former mustang hater, am already on the test drive list. It it delivers what it promises, I will probably buy one.

Edit: And I'll add a supercharger, better suspension, rims, brakes, headers, exhaust, manifold, etc...

If you do like the Stang and want to add those things....wait there's going to be some nice little surprises coming from Ford in the Mustang package.

Scorps · 10-16-2004, 09:19 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Halx

GTO huh? I thought she wanted a reliable car. Preferrably something that looks good too. That's just my opinion.

Sence when has a GM car not been reliable?

merkerguitars · 10-16-2004, 09:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Pain Train

Sence when has a GM car not been reliable?

lets see...the 3.1 and 3.4 v6's with bad gaskets or ones with piston slap, the quad4 with it's awesome power to blow headgaskets. The Chevrolet 305 that was made in the 80's that had nylon coated timing chaing gears and somethings soft camshafts. The 80's Olds 307, easiest engine I ever blew up. The mid 80's Cadillac 4.1L V8 that was the most ass backwards engineered thing to come out of Detroit. It's a big list...but remember NO manufacturer is perfect.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lockjaw

Nextly if you are saying lump the GTO...based on what? Because it's a Pontiac?
What have you heard about the GTO failing and falling apart?
Is it the engine? Oh wait not that ain't it it's got an LS1 the thing is tough as nails and makes tons of power. It's a performance engine with going on 6 years of useage in Corvettes and Camaros. These things don't just quit on you. In fact would you take a slapped together generic V6 from some schlub of a company that doesn't have near the construction tolerances of a performance engine from GM?

Is it the transmission? I know that ain't it either. It's got a T-56 tranny. Again one the best things you can have or else they wouldn't stick them in Vettes and Vipers.

So what would make you guys say the GTO is "unreliable"?

You sir just hit the nail on the head for what i was gonna say next. To sum it up proven components put together in a nice package.

Scorps · 10-16-2004, 09:47 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by merkerguitars

lets see...the 3.1 and 3.4 v6's with bad gaskets or ones with piston slap, the quad4 with it's awesome power to blow headgaskets. The Chevrolet 305 that was made in the 80's that had nylon coated timing chaing gears and somethings soft camshafts. The 80's Olds 307, easiest engine I ever blew up. The mid 80's Cadillac 4.1L V8 that was the most ass backwards engineered thing to come out of Detroit. It's a big list...but remember NO manufacturer is perfect.

I meant the sports car...mostly Pontiac

Peryn · 10-16-2004, 10:25 AM

Most of those examples listed were mid 80's. Well, almost 20 years later thing have improved, amazingly enough. Yes, GM Sucked the Big One in the 80's ... they have improved remarkedly. I work at a Mazda/Chrysler/Pontiac dealership, and we rarely ever see the GTOs in. Usuall its oil change or body shop. We see even less of the 300/magnum. Both seem to be pretty reliable cars, and the powertrain in both is well proven, though the Displacement on Demand is pretty new technology.

Has she looked at the new G6? Its not the most powerful machine, but still kind of nice. The styling isn't even that bad, especially for a pontiac. 200HP, and that cool retractable sunroof makes it a little more like a convertible.

I would highly reccomend the Mazda 6 though. 220 hp v6, handles well, personally i like the styling too. right in the 20 grand range.

Scorps · 10-16-2004, 10:33 AM

Pontiac has a G6 Superchnger in the works with well over 250hp

skyfire · 10-16-2004, 02:47 PM

I drove a new GTO not long ago. It was 6 speed manual version. What a great car it seems to be. LOTS of power, and a great feel to the tranny. The clutch took a bit of gettin used to, I had to be very smooth cause take up was VERY quick. I was really impressed with the ride and handling of the car. The suspension was taut with a great feel and to me, excellent feel of what the car was doin, and great brakes as well. One thing I loved more than any was probably the sound. You could hear enough to know what u were driving, but not so much to piss you off during a roadtrip.

The interior is clean and works well, even for me at 6'4. Imo however, it is just a bit bland for the car, but the colored gauges and available interior accents are a nice touch.

DDDDave · 10-16-2004, 06:55 PM

Hey, thanks for all the feed back.

I did happen to go to the Pontiac lot tonight....The G6 is nice. But the GTO....wow...much more impressive in person. That car in yellow is hot (and a hot rod).

I still can't see her being impressed by the TSX. She wants a sporty, not quite luxury coupe, and the TSX is neither.

The problem is she doesn't know what she wants either. She says 'Why don't you just pick something you know I will like and bring it home and surprise me'. This is not a bad idea really, cause then I can go look at used cars which really opens up the field for finding a good deal.

This is like the third time we have been down this road. Buy a nice car, put excessive miles on it, get stuck with not being able to sell it. The car is driven from covered garage to covered garage and it looks like it could have 30K miles on it. I change the oil every 8K miles which is about every two months. The only people we can sell to are other people who own Honda's, cause they know they will run forever with proper maintenance.

Well, I'm going to keep looking.......and definitely keep you guys suggestions in mind.

Lockjaw · 10-16-2004, 07:43 PM

I'm tellin ya take the GTO home to her let her get her foot in the sucker and she'll definately probably want to keep it.

One word of advice if you do decide to go with the GTO play hardball. I'm talking put the screws to them and don't let up. These dealers know in about 8 weeks they'll be getting their 05s and once that and winter time sets in nobody will want the 04s.
Tell them you'll give them 26k take it or leave it and if they call their bluff tell them you'll be back in late December with 24k. And if you can find two dealers to play off on one another and I assure you the 26k if not less.

Ilow · 10-17-2004, 11:16 AM

What about the Volvo C70? Coupe or convertable, they're nice sized plenty powerful and actually have pretty taut suspensions, plus they're comfortable, reliable and good looking (well that last part is my opinion, but whatever).

Serpent · 10-17-2004, 12:28 PM

If you want to shell out 56k (which is relativly close to a boxter) the audi S4 convertible is nice, and it seats four.. cheaper, mabye a miata (mx-5) but that won't seat four..; Rember the power to weight ratio when you talking about bigger cars though.. thats really whats going to get you around..

mdryfhout · 10-17-2004, 10:41 PM

What about the Honda S2000 best 4cyld in its class rwd drie and a responsive chassis
and plenty of scoop to modify as well , Or a legacy 3.0r no turbo 6cyldr may be not avaidable in states yet . Or holden astra turbo convertible not sre if avaidable in states either , What does your wife want not you !!!!!

Kurant · 10-18-2004, 07:31 AM

The commutes right? Are you sure you want the LS1 V8 to commute with? I dunno about gas prices where you are.. That that would get extremely spendy.

If you get into used cars, I'd also throw a vote out for the 330xi from BMW. You can get an '01 in the 23-26k range.

skyfire · 10-18-2004, 09:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kurant

The commutes right? Are you sure you want the LS1 V8 to commute with? I dunno about gas prices where you are.. That that would get extremely spendy.

If you get into used cars, I'd also throw a vote out for the 330xi from BMW. You can get an '01 in the 23-26k range.

You apparently dont realize the mileage a LS1 can knock down on a commute like that.

Kurant · 10-18-2004, 09:35 AM

What? 22 or so?

skyfire · 10-18-2004, 10:10 AM

The six speed will knock down 29 or 30 on the highway.

paultantk · 10-18-2004, 10:25 AM

What about one of those Camry Sportivo models. Are they the Solara in the US?

They look pretty good to me. And Toyotas are reliable (not saying other manufacturers aren't)

http://www.toyota.com/vehicles/2005/.../exterior.html

Kurant · 10-18-2004, 11:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by skyfire

The six speed will knock down 29 or 30 on the highway.

Pretty good, the test in C/D said they only got 22 though.

10-14-2004, 11:11 AM	#1 (permalink)
DDDDave Addict Location: Sarasota	New Car for the wife.... OK, the wife has a 2000 Honda Accord Coupe that she loves. It has 165K miles and she wants something new. It has the 6cyl VTEC with 200hp. She loves the power. She is a cop and has taken, and taught, high performance driving classes so she knows what she likes. Here's the rub.....she commutes 125 mi. round trip every day. Leaves at 5pm home at 6am. The car must be uber dependable. Gas mileage is important but not at the expense of POWER. She will not drive puny 4 cyl. POS. (Her words) We plan to hand the 2000 down to our oldest daughter so therefore will not have a trade or substantial down payment. She would love a red convertible (wouldn't we all) something. She wants a coupe but it has to have 'real' back seats. She doesn't like the 2004 Accord coupes (kinda boxy, she says). We have went and test driven the Acura RSX (way too small) and Acura TL (great but this is really a luxury sedan), we tried to drive a TSX but they didn't have any. They are four door and have a 4 cyl. but she was willing to consider it. She likes the G35, but who doesn't. They are everywhere. 35Grand too. We're going to test drive a Solara convertible. So, no opinion yet. Her fave of course is the Lexus SC430 but 55K for a commuter car is kinda dumb. She's 5'10" so I can't see her in a Miata. I rented her a MB 230 convertible for a week for her birthday and she loved it but the service costs and reliability rule that one out. What do you guys think? I was thinking about maybe test driving a Boxster, just to see how she liked it. Would it stand up to the commute? Any other suggestions? Don't say WRX. She doesn't like them. Thanks...... __________________ I am just a simple man trying to make my way in the universe... "Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined." - Thoreau "Nothing great was ever accomplished without enthusiasm" - Emerson

10-14-2004, 03:35 PM	#3 (permalink)
merkerguitars Buffering......... Location: Wisconsin...	Well if you want something with alot of power and you don't really car if it's fwd or rwd and willing to get something a little older...my recommendation is the 97-03 pontiac grand prix gtp...they get about 30-32 gas mileage if your easy on them and about 28 with a little rough driving...they are pretty dependable and easy to work on..plus they have raw power...plus you can find one used with very little miles on them since people don't like to have them as a daily driver and plus alot of punk kids don't own them since if someone young (like me) owned one they couldn't afford the insurance....the new gto's get pretty good gas mileage too...easy to work on and parts are easy to find since it's a normal LS1 engine...if you can wait a year I think they are coming out with a convertible version soon hoping to up sales... __________________ 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

10-14-2004, 06:22 PM	#6 (permalink)
Halx Please touch this. Owner/Admin Location: Manhattan	Go back for the TSX. It gets 200hp out of the 4cyl. It's a nice, classy car that's pretty comfy. I Dont think she'll be disappointed at all. I have a TL and I will swear by it to the end, but if she doesn't like luxury when she drives so much every day... well I can't cure her. __________________ You have found this post informative. -The Administrator [Don't Feed The Animals] Last edited by Halx; 10-14-2004 at 06:24 PM..

10-15-2004, 12:43 PM	#11 (permalink)
Halx Please touch this. Owner/Admin Location: Manhattan	GTO huh? I thought she wanted a reliable car. Preferrably something that looks good too. That's just my opinion. __________________ You have found this post informative. -The Administrator [Don't Feed The Animals]

10-15-2004, 05:12 PM	#17 (permalink)
Halx Please touch this. Owner/Admin Location: Manhattan	I was gonna say.. don't cops get some discount from Ford, or whoever supplies their district with vehicles? __________________ You have found this post informative. -The Administrator [Don't Feed The Animals]

10-14-2004, 03:25 PM	#2 (permalink)
1slOwCD8 Psycho Location: chicago, illinois	how about the new GTO or is300?

10-14-2004, 05:24 PM	#4 (permalink)
solo2020 Tilted Location: Los Angeles	S2000 That puny 4 cylinder POS will rip most above mentioned cars

10-14-2004, 05:43 PM	#5 (permalink)
powerclown Junkie Location: Detroit, MI	Mustang GT Convertible

10-14-2004, 07:44 PM	#7 (permalink)
Lockjaw Junkie	Second the vote for the GTO. Coupe. RWD. 350 horsepower and plenty of room for a 5'10" person and a useable back seat. And the LS1 is one of the best engines ever built and they don't crap out too easily and the gas mileage for the power is pretty good. The styling isn't the greatest but it's not going to be as outrageous and I think it would fit a female cop's personality. And since the 05 GTOs are about to come out in a few months the 04s are going for dirt cheap because nobody wants to pay the full price for a car that's going to have 50 fewer horses than the newer versions. I've been talking to several folks that are getting them for around 25-26k. Check out these websites and go hit up a Pontiac dealer www.newagegto.com www.ls1gto.com

10-15-2004, 01:11 PM	#12 (permalink)
txgixxer Upright	I say the TSX as well. I have had one for almost a year coming off a 2000 Accord and have no complaints.

10-15-2004, 04:23 PM	#15 (permalink)
breastboy Tilted	how about the new nissan maxima?

10-15-2004, 04:41 PM	#16 (permalink)
slimpi66y Upright	I feel for her because I have a long commute myself, I drive a 2003 TSX so I wouldn't recommend it, it's a great toy but the 4 cyl just ain't gonna cut it, there is like no torque until 4500rpm since she wants reliability, then just stop looking at american cars, just fuck them, period. the alternatives are Altima 3.5SE, at a great price 25G, it's 3.5 litre V6 at 255 hr, and it's a big arse car. The reliablity is great. wait, if she's a cop, why isn't she driving a Crown Vic?

10-15-2004, 07:37 PM	#18 (permalink)
Ramega Crazy	We get a discount from Ford through work and it sucks, so those aren't always so good. New cars are a complete ripoff anyway. A 2-3 year old car generally has 80% of it's life left and has lost 50% of its value. Just be patient and shop for a low mileage used car. I bought my car three years old with 7,000 miles on it. I paid $10,000 less than a new one. Save the money, keep the used Honda, and buy a house closer to her office!

10-16-2004, 02:59 AM	#19 (permalink)
castex Psycho Location: france	Could you stretch to a BMW 645 convertible? If you need four seats any beemer ragtop might fit the bill. Otherwise, a Boxster would be an excellent choice, commuting just not an issue. Do try an Elise if you can - as has been said, 4 cylinders can be more than enough, and for someone really interested in driving there is nothing more involving on the market. Otherwise, my friend loves his S2000 - they're very good value in Europe at least, but the Honda remains a division below both Porsche and Lotus in terms of hooning about

10-16-2004, 05:38 AM	#21 (permalink)
Lockjaw Junkie	It's one thing to say American cars suck if you own a Honda or Toyota. If you are saying Nissan,Mazda, and Mitsubishi and trying to equate that to reliability...ummm no. I have a Nissan and it gives me more problems than my Ford does...that's two years older. My sister just bought a brand new Altima(I did my best to talk her out of it)...guess what the engine has already developed a tick. Nextly if you are saying lump the GTO...based on what? Because it's a Pontiac? What have you heard about the GTO failing and falling apart? Is it the engine? Oh wait not that ain't it it's got an LS1 the thing is tough as nails and makes tons of power. It's a performance engine with going on 6 years of useage in Corvettes and Camaros. These things don't just quit on you. In fact would you take a slapped together generic V6 from some schlub of a company that doesn't have near the construction tolerances of a performance engine from GM? Is it the transmission? I know that ain't it either. It's got a T-56 tranny. Again one the best things you can have or else they wouldn't stick them in Vettes and Vipers. So what would make you guys say the GTO is "unreliable"?

10-16-2004, 08:20 AM	#22 (permalink)
Willravel ... a sort of licensed troubleshooter.	I agree on the GTO, it is a gerenalization that all american cars suck. Some sucked in the past, and some suck in the present, but it fluctuates. The new mustang (2005 GT) is supposed to vindicate ford for all of it's past crap by being reliable...go figure! I, a former mustang hater, am already on the test drive list. It it delivers what it promises, I will probably buy one. Edit: And I'll add a supercharger, better suspension, rims, brakes, headers, exhaust, manifold, etc...

10-16-2004, 10:25 AM	#27 (permalink)
Peryn Junkie Location: San Diego, CA.	Most of those examples listed were mid 80's. Well, almost 20 years later thing have improved, amazingly enough. Yes, GM Sucked the Big One in the 80's ... they have improved remarkedly. I work at a Mazda/Chrysler/Pontiac dealership, and we rarely ever see the GTOs in. Usuall its oil change or body shop. We see even less of the 300/magnum. Both seem to be pretty reliable cars, and the powertrain in both is well proven, though the Displacement on Demand is pretty new technology. Has she looked at the new G6? Its not the most powerful machine, but still kind of nice. The styling isn't even that bad, especially for a pontiac. 200HP, and that cool retractable sunroof makes it a little more like a convertible. I would highly reccomend the Mazda 6 though. 220 hp v6, handles well, personally i like the styling too. right in the 20 grand range. __________________ Dont cry kid, It's not your fault you suck.

10-16-2004, 10:33 AM	#28 (permalink)
Scorps Lost!! Location: Kingston, Ontario	Pontiac has a G6 Superchnger in the works with well over 250hp

10-16-2004, 02:47 PM	#29 (permalink)
skyfire Tilted	I drove a new GTO not long ago. It was 6 speed manual version. What a great car it seems to be. LOTS of power, and a great feel to the tranny. The clutch took a bit of gettin used to, I had to be very smooth cause take up was VERY quick. I was really impressed with the ride and handling of the car. The suspension was taut with a great feel and to me, excellent feel of what the car was doin, and great brakes as well. One thing I loved more than any was probably the sound. You could hear enough to know what u were driving, but not so much to piss you off during a roadtrip. The interior is clean and works well, even for me at 6'4. Imo however, it is just a bit bland for the car, but the colored gauges and available interior accents are a nice touch.

10-16-2004, 06:55 PM	#30 (permalink)
DDDDave Addict Location: Sarasota	Hey, thanks for all the feed back. I did happen to go to the Pontiac lot tonight....The G6 is nice. But the GTO....wow...much more impressive in person. That car in yellow is hot (and a hot rod). I still can't see her being impressed by the TSX. She wants a sporty, not quite luxury coupe, and the TSX is neither. The problem is she doesn't know what she wants either. She says 'Why don't you just pick something you know I will like and bring it home and surprise me'. This is not a bad idea really, cause then I can go look at used cars which really opens up the field for finding a good deal. This is like the third time we have been down this road. Buy a nice car, put excessive miles on it, get stuck with not being able to sell it. The car is driven from covered garage to covered garage and it looks like it could have 30K miles on it. I change the oil every 8K miles which is about every two months. The only people we can sell to are other people who own Honda's, cause they know they will run forever with proper maintenance. Well, I'm going to keep looking.......and definitely keep you guys suggestions in mind. __________________ I am just a simple man trying to make my way in the universe... "Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined." - Thoreau "Nothing great was ever accomplished without enthusiasm" - Emerson

10-16-2004, 07:43 PM	#31 (permalink)
Lockjaw Junkie	I'm tellin ya take the GTO home to her let her get her foot in the sucker and she'll definately probably want to keep it. One word of advice if you do decide to go with the GTO play hardball. I'm talking put the screws to them and don't let up. These dealers know in about 8 weeks they'll be getting their 05s and once that and winter time sets in nobody will want the 04s. Tell them you'll give them 26k take it or leave it and if they call their bluff tell them you'll be back in late December with 24k. And if you can find two dealers to play off on one another and I assure you the 26k if not less.

10-17-2004, 11:16 AM	#32 (permalink)
Ilow Junkie Location: Pats country	What about the Volvo C70? Coupe or convertable, they're nice sized plenty powerful and actually have pretty taut suspensions, plus they're comfortable, reliable and good looking (well that last part is my opinion, but whatever). __________________ "Religion is the one area of our discourse in which it is considered noble to pretend to be certain about things no human being could possibly be certain about" --Sam Harris

10-17-2004, 12:28 PM	#33 (permalink)
Serpent Insane Location: florida	If you want to shell out 56k (which is relativly close to a boxter) the audi S4 convertible is nice, and it seats four.. cheaper, mabye a miata (mx-5) but that won't seat four..; Rember the power to weight ratio when you talking about bigger cars though.. thats really whats going to get you around..

10-17-2004, 10:41 PM	#34 (permalink)
mdryfhout Upright Location: New Zealand	What about the Honda S2000 best 4cyld in its class rwd drie and a responsive chassis and plenty of scoop to modify as well , Or a legacy 3.0r no turbo 6cyldr may be not avaidable in states yet . Or holden astra turbo convertible not sre if avaidable in states either , What does your wife want not you !!!!!

10-18-2004, 07:31 AM	#35 (permalink)
Kurant Junkie Location: Don't worry about it.	The commutes right? Are you sure you want the LS1 V8 to commute with? I dunno about gas prices where you are.. That that would get extremely spendy. If you get into used cars, I'd also throw a vote out for the 330xi from BMW. You can get an '01 in the 23-26k range.

10-18-2004, 09:35 AM	#37 (permalink)
Kurant Junkie Location: Don't worry about it.	What? 22 or so?

10-18-2004, 10:10 AM	#38 (permalink)
skyfire Tilted	The six speed will knock down 29 or 30 on the highway.

10-18-2004, 10:25 AM	#39 (permalink)
paultantk Upright Location: Malaysia	What about one of those Camry Sportivo models. Are they the Solara in the US? They look pretty good to me. And Toyotas are reliable (not saying other manufacturers aren't) http://www.toyota.com/vehicles/2005/.../exterior.html __________________ Linux sex: unzip; strip; touch; finger; mount; fsck; more; yes; umount; sleep Last edited by paultantk; 10-18-2004 at 10:29 AM..