I didn't think of that for a daily driver!

I want suggestions on a new daily driver, occasional open track day car. After reading the ACR vs Escort post I realized my ACR may not be the end all be all, and there may be a very large list of possible "new" daily drivers for me. Here are what car qualities my ACR has and what qualitites I would like my new to me car to have.

Good, fun handling, I like when the shocks are set to firm as it gives a sense of tight and responsive steering. Very inexpensive 205/50 15 Falken Azenis 615, Good tire, great price. Rotors and pads, cheap to replace. Engine and transmission have taken my redline shifts on a daily basis without complaint for over 160,000 miles. I've added a few bolt ons and lightened the car to make it faster, this was fun, but I'm near the limit with mid to high 14 second quarter mile runs at 93-94 mph. More power will mean more wheel spin with the negative camber I'm running and no LSD.

The car is quick enough and handles well enough to be fun, but I would like a little more speed and torque now. I removed the power steering to see if it would help with accelleration, but I found I loved the heavy steering feel and I actually went slower around corners because it was scarier. I saw this as a bonus because it reduced my speed but kept the fun factor way up there. Some people would say I'm a poser, but I've realized it doesn't matter, because it's about me having fun, not someone else.

So I want a good handling car, that is forgiving at the limit. I'm willing to trade the low price of tires and rotors for horse power. Can be run in Michigan winters with "winter" tires. Doesn't cost more than $10,000 after upgrades. Has some potential to haul stuff. Mileage doesn't really matter. Common enough to be replaced if I put it in the wall at a open track day. Cool looks would be nice, but not neccessary.

I have been considering a '90-'04 Mustang. So what do you think?...

Rick

OK, What model Miata, what is the best way to get power on the cheap? (Mid 13 second quarter miles at over 100mph.) Haul stuff in the wifes car. Any other cars. I do prefer hard tops.

mustangs are a bit more expensive as track cars (for consumables), but not bad.

a well-assembled turbocharged miata is PROBABLY your be-all, end all.

find a good one, and buy it. i'd be willing to be you can find a good turbo'd one out there, and make whatever changes you want for WELL under 10k, maybe half that.