Many good choices given. When it comes to 300zx there seems to be some good deals around on Z31 versions and they seem to get less attention from the Fast&Furious crowd (which is good.)
Many good choices given. When it comes to 300zx there seems to be some good deals around on Z31 versions and they seem to get less attention from the Fast&Furious crowd (which is good.)
92CelicaHalfTrac wrote: I feel like i've let myself and others down... 88-92 MX6 GT. DO IT.
You know you want to. We need more people to get into these!
jrw1621 wrote: Many good choices given. When it comes to 300zx there seems to be some good deals around on Z31 versions and they seem to get less attention from the Fast&Furious crowd (which is good.)
I might be alone in this opinion, but I think the Z31 handles like pooh. I had one for a short while and it was the least fun sports car I've ever driven.
Sonic wrote: What is it about BMW's that you don't like? I've owned basically all of the cars on your list, and really think that a 3 series would meet all of your qualifications as well or better than anything else. If you wanted something bigger and more classic, 635CSi's are just plain sexy. Aside from that, I think you are on the right track with a Miata, they are just fun. Other suggestions not mentioned: -Del Sol VTEC -Nissan Maxima -Lexus SC300 (they did have a 5 spd) -Alfa Spyder/Milano/164? Others that I will second: -FC RX7 -Porsche 944
I don't know I could put my finger on exactly what it is about the BMWs. I do like them. In fact, years ago when I had more money, I nearly bought a '00 M5. I've driven many 3 series and thought many times about buying one. But there's something that just keeps me from it. Maybe it's the mechanical upkeep they require/spotty reliability...you've seen my mechanical skills firsthand. 
That's the same reason I'd rule out a 944 (which I really like) or an Italian car. Del Sol is interesting.
I'm going to just keep my eyes open and see what catches my attention. The draw to a Miata is strong, but I'm always open to ideas. If only this Miata was closer to me.... Anyone in Miami making a trip north?? http://forum.miata.net/vb/showthread.php?t=446621
I found this sweet Alfa locally and I'm tempted, but I could let you have it. What could possibly go wrong?
DaewooOfDeath wrote:jrw1621 wrote: Many good choices given. When it comes to 300zx there seems to be some good deals around on Z31 versions and they seem to get less attention from the Fast&Furious crowd (which is good.)I might be alone in this opinion, but I think the Z31 handles like pooh. I had one for a short while and it was the least fun sports car I've ever driven.
Plus +1000 that car is a turd. I also think the FB RX-7 is a lot more fun then the FC.
And, to provide a little clarity, let it be known that I have never driven a Z31. I do think they are attractive and I have seen that they command less of a premium when compared to some similar cars...there must be a reason.
Klayfish wrote: I don't know I could put my finger on exactly what it is about the BMWs... But there's something that just keeps me from it.
Another thing to consider is that you want something you can tinker with a bit for maintenance, and for that you want something with a good knowledge base and parts availability. I'd say the need for regular maintenance that is above your current comfort level, but not that hard in the grand scheme, is something you should look for. You won't get to be a better wrench with a Miata or Integra, but you will with a 944, less so with a BMW, but still somewhat.
Just some thoughts that popped into my head as I read through this.
If you think the miata is too slow you wont like an X1/9. But yes, X1/9s can be plenty reliable.
Not sure where the "spotty reliability" thing comes in with BMW if maintained they are pretty dead reliable. As far as the upkeep they require its really no worse than any other car, just people care enough to do it on a BMW. Cooling system at 100,000 miles, $400 and a day of your time, well worth it. Otherwise its mostly just suspension bushings, bushing are rubber, they wear out in all cars, the difference is the BMW feels so good when they are right you will want to keep them maintained.
That being said I have talked my own father out of owning one just because he does not wrench and doesn't want to. If something does go wrong it gets expensive if you dont want to DIY.
I go through a few cars a year myself so I won't get on you about that, I'm somewhere north of 110 cars owned lifetime, I understand your addiction.
Miata is the answer.
2 birds with one stone?
http://fredericksburg.craigslist.org/cto/2799038878.html cars in Fairfax, VA
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