List of mid-to-high $20ks car choices for combo of daily driving and mod potential
#41
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Originally posted by greenmonster
Used Z's (performance and track models) are around $27K (with 10-15K miles in my area). I'm not sure what the new Z's are going for, but I'm sure you can get 'em cheaper then when they first came out.
+ 4700 for the TT kit + installation.
SO low 30's for a used 350Z TT or high 30's for a NEW 350Z TT. At those prices, a used Z06 might be another option (if you're looking at 2 seaters).
Used Z's (performance and track models) are around $27K (with 10-15K miles in my area). I'm not sure what the new Z's are going for, but I'm sure you can get 'em cheaper then when they first came out.
+ 4700 for the TT kit + installation.
SO low 30's for a used 350Z TT or high 30's for a NEW 350Z TT. At those prices, a used Z06 might be another option (if you're looking at 2 seaters).
#42
Old timer
Thread Starter
Originally posted by Crazy Sellout
you saying the Evo is reliable?
you saying the Evo is reliable?
![Huh](https://acurazine.com/forums/images/smilies/huh.gif)
Belty - What does the average cost of a new car have to do with anything? There are many people who can't afford a $30k car. Does the fact that it's the average price paid for a new car (if that's even based on fact) mean anything to them? Can they suddenly afford to own one? Of course not. That's why half the cars sold (using your claim of a $30k average) fall below that price.
I've been considering once again just getting an RSX-S to save some money and invest the rest that is currently sitting in the bank earning me jack interest. Who knows. I'm in no hurry. So again, I was just looking to discuss mid-to-high $20ks cars that are decent cars.
The new Subaru Legacy's top performance model should probably also be included. Anyone know the final USDM specs for it and which model will be the best available in the US for the 2005 model year?
#47
Senior Moderator
god, please help JRock decide on a vehicle. he's having alot of trouble on his own.
thanks,
mattg
thanks,
mattg
#48
GEEZER
Originally posted by 97-3-pt-OH-C-el
do you mind going domestic?
ever heard of a Trans Am?
do you mind going domestic?
ever heard of a Trans Am?
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#49
GEEZER
Originally posted by chris3240929
It's a great deal for the money.
It's a great deal for the money.
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#50
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Originally posted by 1killercls
Accord v6 6 speed coupe...240 HP...and fast.
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#51
Old timer
Thread Starter
Originally posted by mattg
god, please help JRock decide on a vehicle. he's having alot of trouble on his own.
thanks,
mattg
god, please help JRock decide on a vehicle. he's having alot of trouble on his own.
thanks,
mattg
#52
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Originally posted by Zapata
get a beater car for now. TSX is rumored to have turbo and awd soon. Prolly MY 05....wait......
get a beater car for now. TSX is rumored to have turbo and awd soon. Prolly MY 05....wait......
#54
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dammit jrock u and I are in the same boat. I want my next car to be a 12-sec car w/o being overdone and still be somewhat luxurious/classy and daily driveable but I can't find it w/o having to spending an arm and a leg.
#55
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Originally posted by JRock
yo my moms works in tokyo and she said it gonna have v8 supercharged with nitrous and six-wheel drive.
yo my moms works in tokyo and she said it gonna have v8 supercharged with nitrous and six-wheel drive.
but seriously they are coming out with a TSX turbo. I'm not playing.
#56
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personally i wouldn't go with a WRX for 4 reasons #1. to me it looks to "boy racer image" #2. EVERYONE(at least in my autocross group) is running this or a Evo
#3. their owned by GM enough said by that.
#4. their transmissions blow(i know the CL doesn't have room to talk but just be careful).
now an Evo i wouldn't either
#1. Mitsu has crappy quality if you ask me.
#2. boy racer image again
#3. everyone using this car to build up on my autocross group.
personally I'd go with a mid 90's Supra TT. That thing is EASY to mod. you dump on 2 bigger turbos boast it more you can get into 12's no problem with a supra TT.
I think Greddy sells a custom TT kit for Supra TT but i could be wrong. Those Supras will take a crapload of boast. I've seen honest to goodness 1000 hp supra TTs. if you go Hot Import Nights and go to the Dyno contest most of the guys that win run a Supra TT.
#3. their owned by GM enough said by that.
#4. their transmissions blow(i know the CL doesn't have room to talk but just be careful).
now an Evo i wouldn't either
#1. Mitsu has crappy quality if you ask me.
#2. boy racer image again
#3. everyone using this car to build up on my autocross group.
personally I'd go with a mid 90's Supra TT. That thing is EASY to mod. you dump on 2 bigger turbos boast it more you can get into 12's no problem with a supra TT.
I think Greddy sells a custom TT kit for Supra TT but i could be wrong. Those Supras will take a crapload of boast. I've seen honest to goodness 1000 hp supra TTs. if you go Hot Import Nights and go to the Dyno contest most of the guys that win run a Supra TT.
#57
Old timer
Thread Starter
TSXs are made in Japan, not Ohio, so it's likely you dad or whomever in Ohio hasn't a clue about the TSX/RSX/NSX. Sorry. =\
As for a MkIV Supra, they're still very expensive and they're getting too old and too cliche'd. Plus I want a sedan.
The STi has a stong 6sd trans that is not the 5spd from the WRX that has issues.
GM owns part of Subaru but the current Subarus are still fine cars with pretty dependable engines.
As for a MkIV Supra, they're still very expensive and they're getting too old and too cliche'd. Plus I want a sedan.
The STi has a stong 6sd trans that is not the 5spd from the WRX that has issues.
GM owns part of Subaru but the current Subarus are still fine cars with pretty dependable engines.
#58
Cost Drivers!!!!
Originally posted by JRock
TSXs are made in Japan, not Ohio, so it's likely you dad or whomever in Ohio hasn't a clue about the TSX/RSX/NSX. Sorry. =\
TSXs are made in Japan, not Ohio, so it's likely you dad or whomever in Ohio hasn't a clue about the TSX/RSX/NSX. Sorry. =\
jrock,
all do respect, Water-S usually lets us in on nice little tidbits of info well in advance of the news. I wouldn't be so quick to knock the info....
#59
Old timer
Thread Starter
I don't want to get excited about something cool like a turbo AWD TSX from the factory and then have it turn out to be pure rumor. I'd rather ignore the rumor for now and be pleasantly surprised if it actually happens. I'd pay $30k for that (non navi of course). Assuming it had a power passenger seat too finally.
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#60
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Originally posted by Zapata
jrock,
all do respect, Water-S usually lets us in on nice little tidbits of info well in advance of the news. I wouldn't be so quick to knock the info....
jrock,
all do respect, Water-S usually lets us in on nice little tidbits of info well in advance of the news. I wouldn't be so quick to knock the info....
#61
Old timer
Thread Starter
The TSX arrives by ship to port from Japan. Clearly then the K24 it uses is built in Japan. Now there may also be a K24 built state-side for Honda products - I don't know. What I do know is that the TSX is built in Japan.
What was Water-S right about previously? Some specs on the Ohio-built 2004 TL? Knowing something about that doesn't mean his dad will know anything about the TSX.
What was Water-S right about previously? Some specs on the Ohio-built 2004 TL? Knowing something about that doesn't mean his dad will know anything about the TSX.
#62
I wouldn't overlook the Forester XT so quickly. It's got a decent interior, lots of utility, it's quicker than a WRX, plenty of mods, and when Cobb Engineering maps that ECU, will be a poor man's STi.
That's the JDM STi version, not available in the US (of course).
![](http://img5.photobucket.com/albums/v15/merckx/01.jpg)
![](http://img5.photobucket.com/albums/v15/merckx/02.jpg)
That's the JDM STi version, not available in the US (of course).
#63
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I don't know if used cars are out of the question (I always buy used because you can get way more for your money), but here are some that are not 12 sec cars, but have some mod potential and are somewhat stylish/classy:
Used Lexus GS400 or 430
New Nissan Maxima
New Nissan Altima
New Nissan 350Z
Plus, if you want a fast/classy car, why not just get right to the point and get a 2003 Mustang Cobra, 2001+ Z06 Corvette, or maybe even a '97+ Corvette coupe? Fast, classy, and will smoke any of the cars you listed with only light mods, if not stock. If you want luxury, I say go for a car such as a used GS430. If you want fast, go for a Corvette or 2003 Mustang Cobra.
Used Lexus GS400 or 430
New Nissan Maxima
New Nissan Altima
New Nissan 350Z
Plus, if you want a fast/classy car, why not just get right to the point and get a 2003 Mustang Cobra, 2001+ Z06 Corvette, or maybe even a '97+ Corvette coupe? Fast, classy, and will smoke any of the cars you listed with only light mods, if not stock. If you want luxury, I say go for a car such as a used GS430. If you want fast, go for a Corvette or 2003 Mustang Cobra.
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#64
Old timer
Thread Starter
The car also has to be a bit practical and the Vette or Mustang really isn't for this area with snow, bad roads, ability to carry items/people, etc.
The Forester isn't an option (don't want a boxy SUV/wagon thing), but the upcoming Legacy would be sweet if they released the STi version here.
Used cars kinda scare me. Every car I've had was either bought new or was a hand-me-down from parents. I know how they've been treated and I know they haven't been in any accidents, etc.
It's tough for me to buy a used car that uses up most of my budget, for a couple reasons. First is I don't have enough mechanical experience or tools so any work would have to be at a shop and that's expensive and time consuming. If the car is modded clearly the dealership isn't going to help even if the car would be under warranty mileage-wise.
Second is I'd rather buy a new car if it's going to cost most of my budget since I'd know exactly how the car is treated for every mile I put on it - no surprises. If I was gonna buy a used car I'd rather it be a smaller part of my budget so if there are issues I have money left to fix whatever if necessary.
The B5 S4 is a really nice car but I'm a bit hesitant to consider dropping the money for one. Even though it's a lot of car for the money I feel like I'd be stretching too much and risking too much to do so.
I'm still open to the possibility that the right S4 could come along at the right price, but after checking eBayMotors and AutoTrader.com I'm not too confident right now, at least judging by the asking prices.
I think part of it is it being an Audi. If it was a Lexus or Acura I'd be sold. I just see Audi and think expensive repair bills. =\
But if I can get a low mileage '01-'02 S4 for $25-26k I'd be very tempted to do it. A couple grand in mods from APR and it'd be running quite well. Or $6k+install would offer the RS4 turbos and fuel system as well as tuned ecu, etc. and it would run in the 12s.
Hmm...
See now you've got me talking about cars again. This was supposed to be just a list thread. wtf. =p
The Forester isn't an option (don't want a boxy SUV/wagon thing), but the upcoming Legacy would be sweet if they released the STi version here.
Used cars kinda scare me. Every car I've had was either bought new or was a hand-me-down from parents. I know how they've been treated and I know they haven't been in any accidents, etc.
It's tough for me to buy a used car that uses up most of my budget, for a couple reasons. First is I don't have enough mechanical experience or tools so any work would have to be at a shop and that's expensive and time consuming. If the car is modded clearly the dealership isn't going to help even if the car would be under warranty mileage-wise.
Second is I'd rather buy a new car if it's going to cost most of my budget since I'd know exactly how the car is treated for every mile I put on it - no surprises. If I was gonna buy a used car I'd rather it be a smaller part of my budget so if there are issues I have money left to fix whatever if necessary.
The B5 S4 is a really nice car but I'm a bit hesitant to consider dropping the money for one. Even though it's a lot of car for the money I feel like I'd be stretching too much and risking too much to do so.
I'm still open to the possibility that the right S4 could come along at the right price, but after checking eBayMotors and AutoTrader.com I'm not too confident right now, at least judging by the asking prices.
I think part of it is it being an Audi. If it was a Lexus or Acura I'd be sold. I just see Audi and think expensive repair bills. =\
But if I can get a low mileage '01-'02 S4 for $25-26k I'd be very tempted to do it. A couple grand in mods from APR and it'd be running quite well. Or $6k+install would offer the RS4 turbos and fuel system as well as tuned ecu, etc. and it would run in the 12s.
Hmm...
See now you've got me talking about cars again. This was supposed to be just a list thread. wtf. =p
#66
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Originally posted by JRock
The TSX arrives by ship to port from Japan. Clearly then the K24 it uses is built in Japan. Now there may also be a K24 built state-side for Honda products - I don't know. What I do know is that the TSX is built in Japan.
What was Water-S right about previously? Some specs on the Ohio-built 2004 TL? Knowing something about that doesn't mean his dad will know anything about the TSX.
The TSX arrives by ship to port from Japan. Clearly then the K24 it uses is built in Japan. Now there may also be a K24 built state-side for Honda products - I don't know. What I do know is that the TSX is built in Japan.
What was Water-S right about previously? Some specs on the Ohio-built 2004 TL? Knowing something about that doesn't mean his dad will know anything about the TSX.
He was right about the 03 Accord 3.0L engine having 240hp. There was talk at the time and even in the car magazines that the engine would either stay at 200hp or possibly get bumped to 225hp I believe. He was the first person I saw to say 240hp.
#67
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Just bought a 2001.5 S4 Avant. I love it. The potential is great. $600 for an ECU gets you 310hp and 360lb/ft. And remember, all that power is deliverd to all wheels. Its a nice combination of class and power. You can always argue for an STI or Evo but the build quality can't compare with a German car. Just my opinion...
#68
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and water-S was the 1st person to confirm the extended tranny warranty and the discontinuatin of the cl, both before any media outlet could
some of u guys are so narrow-minded, jrock, u dont think that honda of america doesnt bring over jdm cars to the US at all??
They have bought over an accord type-R, nsx-S, and even a rsx-r just to test it out in America....the point is, if they bring over japanese market cars, why is it farfetched 2 see them bring engines across for testing purposes ??
some of u guys are so narrow-minded, jrock, u dont think that honda of america doesnt bring over jdm cars to the US at all??
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#69
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here are some timeslips of S4 owners and the mods they are running... interesting to see what kinda of times are possible and the $ it takes to get those times...
S4 Timeslips
S4 Timeslips
#70
Old timer
Thread Starter
Originally posted by unsure
some of u guys are so narrow-minded, jrock, u dont think that honda of america doesnt bring over jdm cars to the US at all??
They have bought over an accord type-R, nsx-S, and even a rsx-r just to test it out in America....the point is, if they bring over japanese market cars, why is it farfetched 2 see them bring engines across for testing purposes ??
some of u guys are so narrow-minded, jrock, u dont think that honda of america doesnt bring over jdm cars to the US at all??
![Roll Eyes](https://acurazine.com/forums/images/smilies/rolleyes.gif)
also, there are no turbo Honda car engines right now, chief. would be nice though.
i'm currently working on an s4.
#71
Old timer
Thread Starter
So anyway, these are really the only choices for $30k right now:
Used IS300 then turbo it?
New is300 and lack the funds to make it fast?
New tsx and suffer with FWD and no LSD if i turbo it?
Some fast shitbox like an Evo or nicer STi but never have any luxury?
Used s4 ('01.5 or '02) and spend my life savings keeping it running?
It's hard to get luxury and performance for $30k. Maybe MY05 will bring some new options.
Used IS300 then turbo it?
New is300 and lack the funds to make it fast?
New tsx and suffer with FWD and no LSD if i turbo it?
Some fast shitbox like an Evo or nicer STi but never have any luxury?
Used s4 ('01.5 or '02) and spend my life savings keeping it running?
It's hard to get luxury and performance for $30k. Maybe MY05 will bring some new options.
#72
Cost Drivers!!!!
Originally posted by JRock
So anyway, these are really the only choices for $30k right now:
Used IS300 then turbo it?
New is300 and lack the funds to make it fast?
New tsx and suffer with FWD and no LSD if i turbo it?
Some fast shitbox like an Evo or nicer STi but never have any luxury?
Used s4 ('01.5 or '02) and spend my life savings keeping it running?
It's hard to get luxury and performance for $30k. Maybe MY05 will bring some new options.
So anyway, these are really the only choices for $30k right now:
Used IS300 then turbo it?
New is300 and lack the funds to make it fast?
New tsx and suffer with FWD and no LSD if i turbo it?
Some fast shitbox like an Evo or nicer STi but never have any luxury?
Used s4 ('01.5 or '02) and spend my life savings keeping it running?
It's hard to get luxury and performance for $30k. Maybe MY05 will bring some new options.
is300: turbo an OEM N/A car for a daily driver....no thanks. IF you want this car gonna have keep it stock...IMHO.
TSX: more power would cause problems with traction.
STI/EVO: not as a daily driver. That will get old fast.
S4: How can you make sure car wasn't modded? You want a USED GERMAN car?? stay away.
#75
Liquid Ice
I'm not the type to say that the TSX rumors are 100% true, but this thread from ClubRSX also agrees with the TSX Turbo AWD. Not necessarily for the USA, but an Accord Type-R AWD sounds like its in testing:
Link
(Its a long read to get through all of his story, but from what I read he went to visit Honda HQ in Japan and got to test drive a JDM Accord Type-R AWD with a turbo).
Link
(Its a long read to get through all of his story, but from what I read he went to visit Honda HQ in Japan and got to test drive a JDM Accord Type-R AWD with a turbo).
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