MannyRCF

Hey everyone..looking for some advice..I start a new job next week which requires me to commute 45 minutes each way...as of recently I was working 5 minutes from home so the commute was no issue...anyways...I dont want to drive my LS to work so am looking for a second car..want to spend 10K or under...looking for something fun,automatic,used ..max 60,000 miles...a trouble free car...nothing that needs or will need alot of repairs down the road....prefer AWD or FWD..but might settle for RWD...it can be a 2 seat or 4....I was thinking of a Mini,350z,Solstice,golf,jetta,...something along those lines...something that would put a smile to face when i rip corners etc...not looking for a civic.....thanks in advance....

mikez

Like you suggested, Mini, 350z, and I would add:

Boxter & Miata

PhilipMSPT

iTrader: (5)

Under $10k? The ones you named are usually above $10k newer with less than 60k miles.

Mazda Speed3. Acura Integra/RSX. Mitsu Eclipse. They can be (relatively) cheaper.

Just from the top of my head...

mmarshall

Unless you live or work close to a VW dealer, I'd avoid the Golf or Jetta if you do a lot of commuting, because of reliability concerns. Ditto for the Solstice. Early 350Zs had some teething problems, but the later ones were better. If you want a small reliable sports (or sporty) car, look for a used Miata........for the most part, they are bulletproof. They will also put a smile on your face in the corners, like you want. They are a little rough and noisy for long trips (say, a couple of hours), but are OK for 45 minutes or so in your commute.

Allen K

iTrader: (4)

Another vote for a Miata

ekc

iTrader: (6)

I was told the early Mini Coopers sucks in performance. So looks like the Miata would be the best choice based on your budget... For AWD, You might be able to find an 04+ Impreza RS or even WRX at that price; or its twin brother, Saab 9-2x. As for FWD, what's fun out there? Acura RSX? Mazda 3? Scion TC?

MannyRCF

Thanks everyone..Miata was never on the radar ..to be honest Im not a big fan of it...I am leaning towards the Cooper or Solstice...the Miata just looks and feels to cramped...Im 5"11 and 220 on a low carb day

Jetfire

iTrader: (3)

remember, he lives in vancouver. our used car prices are inflated, so keep that in mind.

unless you're importing from the US?

Allen K

iTrader: (4)

I'd pass on the Solstice. I was playing with one at the rental place while I was waiting for the car I got to come from the car wash and the roof is a giant PITA to get up and down. If I have to pull over to adjust the roof something is wrong.

whoster

used Miata.


I sold mine three years ago, 2000 model, 40K on the odo with factory hard top for $8.5K

llamaboiz

first thing i thought of was: Miata

baddis es

iTrader: (3)

sciont tc is a great choice...good gas mileage and very roomy inside, both front and rear seats.

plus it has the bulletproof 4cyl motor and a little pep in it...easy maintenance as well (it's a Toyota!) and if you want the extra stability in the corners with it, i'd invest in a set of sway bars and may some minimal drop lowering springs. you'll be fine throwing the car into turns.

whoster

Scion tC isn't really a driver's car...

rdgdawg

If you eliminate Miata...

MINI or Acura Integra/RSX

kit cat

iTrader: (6)

Not sure how reliable it is but what about a E36? Or an earlier model Boxster that has had the engine replaced under warranty?