Thinking 01-02 CLS. What else is comp? 2001 IS300? 01-02 A4 1.8? I'd like to stay > 2000 MY. Must have a back seat. Opinions please. TIA

 

Sounds like you don't mind if it's a two door or four door, as long as there are back seats right? I would say get a new car, a EX V6 Accord sedan without navigation system starts at $25,800, or a LX V6 sedan with 5AT starts at $23,000. A dark gray Accord sedan or a blue Accord coupe looks very very good IMO.

A 2003 Audi A4 1.8T starts at $24,950, so you could think about it also.

A 2003 Mazda 6s starts at around $21,100(I am not sure).

A 2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLI starts at $22,950.

Actually there are many many choices in the price range that you gave.

If you get a second-handed car now, then it would be third-handed when you try to sell it in the future, thougher to sell than a second-handed car. But this is just my opinion.

 

Just a few more bucks and get a new or a used 03 CL 6 speed, ($27k-28) and avoid the CL auto transmission issue. Otherwise for that amount I would get an Accord over the CL. But I'd still get a CL over the others you mention in this price range.
Lexus would be more reliable than the Audi. I see used 01 CLs for under $20k all the time. THE CLP is cheaper than the CLS too. My dealer has 1 or 2 under $20k + the certified 1 year warranty that adds on to the the regular warranty.
So many variables, though.

 

If you're looking for performance, an '03 WRX can be had for well under $25K. I've heard there's deals going on used ones from folks selling them to get an STi, but anyone trading up for the STi probably drove their WRX pretty hard.

If you need a little more luxury, I'd take a look at the '03 Accord. Prices are pretty good on used CLs, you're just taking a chance on the transmission.

 

I'd have to say either 01' IS300 or 01' S2000 if you're looking for a coupe. They're both ultra reliable, and plenty of aftermarket support. The newly redesigned IS300 is coming out soon though in case that bothers you.

 

Mazda 6, a little slower than the others but loaded it is 25 max

 

I mean, what do you want?

A pocket rocket? get the new neon, that thing will bounce for $20K and will have great aftermarket support.

Does it have to be fast?

or is your focus luxury?

 

Neon SRT-4 , 03 Accord V6 Coupe , even a WRX...good luck

 

I think the s2000 is out b/c of the lack of a rear seat. I'd look at a used Is300, CL-S or new Accord or Mazda 6.

 

Dodge Neon... baby!!! Livin' da vida loca!!!!

 

get the is300... more aftermarket support and i think its a real fun car to drive. but thats just me.

 

well he's on a budget of 20-25k, i don't think he's thinking about modding his car.

 

i paid 25k for my cl-s w/ comptech headers, exhaust, springs and 8k miles. i'm pretty modded now