Graduation Present time
02-03-2009, 08:42 PM
#1
Burning Brakes
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Graduation Present time
Well I'm finally graduating from my collegiate program with an associates in science and a high school diploma within the next few months! For graduation I was told I'd be getting a newer car (used) so the time has started for me to explore my options. I currently drive a 2000 TL and am looking for something a bit more powerful and RWD. I have been considering the following cars but have no idea of whats realistic. I have set my price range to about 15k. I don't care whether it is a sedan or coupe, but due to insurance reasons a sedan might be the most practical.
G35 sedan/coupe
s2000 AP1
Cadillac CTS
BMW 3 series (02, 03)
Acura TL 04+ ( i kno its not RWD but its an attractive car)
Mercedes C class
Audi A4
350z
Hopefully I can get some good input on some of these cars!
G35 sedan/coupe
s2000 AP1
Cadillac CTS
BMW 3 series (02, 03)
Acura TL 04+ ( i kno its not RWD but its an attractive car)
Mercedes C class
Audi A4
350z
Hopefully I can get some good input on some of these cars!
02-03-2009, 09:49 PM
#2
Only the Infiniti sounds safe for reliability, and the BMW for fun.
02-03-2009, 11:36 PM
#3
Senior Moderator
TL FTW! If you do highway driving the G is going to kill you.
02-03-2009, 11:38 PM
#4
Suzuka Master
Acura TL wins.
02-03-2009, 11:48 PM
#5
an asshole from florida
What school did ya goto bro, I did the same thing, got my AA and my HS diploma! congrats man!!! I would say either TL or CTS for sure. If you could afford the maintenance..A4 ftw
02-03-2009, 11:49 PM
#6
The sizzle in the Steak
What year for the CTS?
02-04-2009, 08:11 AM
#7
Safety Car
Trending Topics
02-04-2009, 09:11 AM
#9
If you don't have any problems with your car now, maybe ask for the cash equivalent and put it away for a little while longer since at the rate things are going, there are going to be a lot of excellent used cars on the market in coming months as people start unloading luxury items like cars to be able to afford the essentials.
same here.
02-04-2009, 09:59 AM
#15
I drive a Subata.
iTrader: (1)
TL 6MT.
You won't regret it. Just do it.
Its the best all around.
You won't regret it. Just do it.
Its the best all around.
02-04-2009, 10:03 AM
#16
The Box
I agree with everyone saying to wait. A lot of 06 models are going to be coming off lease shortly, there are going to be A TON of cars on the market and not many people are purchasing at this time.
I hope I can sell mine quick
:P
Otherwise - I'd personally get a 05 G35 sedan with a 6 speed...just my
I hope I can sell mine quick
:POtherwise - I'd personally get a 05 G35 sedan with a 6 speed...just my
02-04-2009, 10:09 AM
#18
I drive a Subata.
iTrader: (1)
The only thing I'm concerned with G35s are gas mileage. Most of my friends drive G35s or TLs, but G35s seem to drink a lot more gas than TLs do.
02-04-2009, 10:10 AM
#20
The Box
02-04-2009, 10:53 AM
#21
Burning Brakes
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I went to a program called the Richland Collegiate High School here in Dallas. There are a few that are similiar around such as TAMS at the Univeristy of North Texas..
And the reason why im getting a newer car for graduation is because i saved my parents a ton of money since my school covered all of the tuition books and laptop during my two years here. I have been looking at the g35 but the gas milage is what kills me. I love the TL styling, but im trying to see if i can get into something rwd moreso than fwd but it all depends. The BMW 3 series i've heard good and bad things from so if anyone has one in their garage your input on maintenance and repairs would be greatly appreciated.
02-04-2009, 11:16 AM
#22
The Box
-Maintenance in a 3 series is going to be more than the TL or the G35 but they are not unreliable cars.
-Are you going to be driving mostly city or hwy? What kind of climate do you live in?
Soccer playa - this is not at all against you, and hopefully doesn't jack the thread but....
Since when do kids EXPECT their parents to pay for college? Do parents EXPECT to pay for college? Is this normal now days? My parents didn't pay for mine or my siblings and I don't expect to pay for my kids. I'll help if need be, but....I feel like it's something they should be responsible for...Unless I'll be that well off of coarse.
Thoughts?
-Are you going to be driving mostly city or hwy? What kind of climate do you live in?
Soccer playa - this is not at all against you, and hopefully doesn't jack the thread but....
Since when do kids EXPECT their parents to pay for college? Do parents EXPECT to pay for college? Is this normal now days? My parents didn't pay for mine or my siblings and I don't expect to pay for my kids. I'll help if need be, but....I feel like it's something they should be responsible for...Unless I'll be that well off of coarse. Thoughts?
02-04-2009, 11:20 AM
#23
Burning Brakes
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If you don't have any problems with your car now, maybe ask for the cash equivalent and put it away for a little while longer since at the rate things are going, there are going to be a lot of excellent used cars on the market in coming months as people start unloading luxury items like cars to be able to afford the essentials.
I mean I have no problem waiting a few months. I just want to get the most out of what i pay for. I'm more of a luxury/sport type kid so thats why the cars above are listed. I also considered a mercedes c class kompressor.
02-04-2009, 11:20 AM
#24
Punk Rocker
Cant buy a several year old BMW, Mercedes, or Audi out of warranty unless you are getting another $15k just to keep the thing running. I would say G35 coupe or TL if it were me....
02-04-2009, 11:30 AM
#25
If you don't have any problems with your car now, maybe ask for the cash equivalent and put it away for a little while longer since at the rate things are going, there are going to be a lot of excellent used cars on the market in coming months as people start unloading luxury items like cars to be able to afford the essentials.
Best advice in the thread if you must buy a car and not save the money.
02-04-2009, 11:55 AM
#26
Burning Brakes
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-Maintenance in a 3 series is going to be more than the TL or the G35 but they are not unreliable cars.
-Are you going to be driving mostly city or hwy? What kind of climate do you live in?
Soccer playa - this is not at all against you, and hopefully doesn't jack the thread but....
Since when do kids EXPECT their parents to pay for college? Do parents EXPECT to pay for college? Is this normal now days? My parents didn't pay for mine or my siblings and I don't expect to pay for my kids. I'll help if need be, but....I feel like it's something they should be responsible for...Unless I'll be that well off of coarse.
Thoughts?
-Are you going to be driving mostly city or hwy? What kind of climate do you live in?
Soccer playa - this is not at all against you, and hopefully doesn't jack the thread but....
Since when do kids EXPECT their parents to pay for college? Do parents EXPECT to pay for college? Is this normal now days? My parents didn't pay for mine or my siblings and I don't expect to pay for my kids. I'll help if need be, but....I feel like it's something they should be responsible for...Unless I'll be that well off of coarse. Thoughts?
And i understand where you're coming from, and i agree with your POV. I don't expect for them to pay for anything but they are typical Indian parents who insist on paying for my undergraduate education. The main reason im getting another car is because they are rewarding me for my academic achievements. I know some people might say "I did well in school and I didn't receive anything" but thats just how my parents are. Im not trying to be snobby or stuck up. I think different cultures carry on different beliefs with things that pertain to education and other things, but im not saying that true for everybody.
02-04-2009, 12:43 PM
#27
The Box
I live in Texas and will most likely attend UT austin for the rest of my pre-med. So somewhat humid down there.
And i understand where you're coming from, and i agree with your POV. I don't expect for them to pay for anything but they are typical Indian parents who insist on paying for my undergraduate education. The main reason im getting another car is because they are rewarding me for my academic achievements. I know some people might say "I did well in school and I didn't receive anything" but thats just how my parents are. Im not trying to be snobby or stuck up. I think different cultures carry on different beliefs with things that pertain to education and other things, but im not saying that true for everybody.
And i understand where you're coming from, and i agree with your POV. I don't expect for them to pay for anything but they are typical Indian parents who insist on paying for my undergraduate education. The main reason im getting another car is because they are rewarding me for my academic achievements. I know some people might say "I did well in school and I didn't receive anything" but thats just how my parents are. Im not trying to be snobby or stuck up. I think different cultures carry on different beliefs with things that pertain to education and other things, but im not saying that true for everybody.
Glad to see you appreciate their help though.
02-04-2009, 01:01 PM
#29
my indian parents told me to get a loan after scholarships run dry...
but anyway i'd say a japanese car for sure. personally i love my 2nd gen tl as a safe reliable daily driver around a college campus but if you want something else id say the tl.
g35s, 350zs, and s2ks will all get a lot of unwanted attention and the last thing you want to worry about is having your car stolen or broken into.
the 04+ tl would be great but it is fairly hard to park if youre not too good at parallel parking.
but anyway i'd say a japanese car for sure. personally i love my 2nd gen tl as a safe reliable daily driver around a college campus but if you want something else id say the tl.
g35s, 350zs, and s2ks will all get a lot of unwanted attention and the last thing you want to worry about is having your car stolen or broken into.
the 04+ tl would be great but it is fairly hard to park if youre not too good at parallel parking.
02-04-2009, 01:14 PM
#30
an asshole from florida
i thought that parents helped pay for school?? i mean isnt that the whole joke...not another college tuition? either way cool I went to a program called school for advanced studies..it was at a community college, had all my classes there and do not regret not having a normal high school experience.
get the TL..trust me youll want something reliable since you probably wont be getting something new til you get outta med school or even til you finish your residency. Thats how I feel ill be with my cl at least
get the TL..trust me youll want something reliable since you probably wont be getting something new til you get outta med school or even til you finish your residency. Thats how I feel ill be with my cl at least
02-04-2009, 01:32 PM
#32
Burning Brakes
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i thought that parents helped pay for school?? i mean isnt that the whole joke...not another college tuition? either way cool I went to a program called school for advanced studies..it was at a community college, had all my classes there and do not regret not having a normal high school experience.
get the TL..trust me youll want something reliable since you probably wont be getting something new til you get outta med school or even til you finish your residency. Thats how I feel ill be with my cl at least
get the TL..trust me youll want something reliable since you probably wont be getting something new til you get outta med school or even til you finish your residency. Thats how I feel ill be with my cl at least
I love the TL and everything about it so it is on of the cars at the top of my list. Also i was looking at the G sedan but have not driven it yet only the coupe which i loved!.
02-04-2009, 01:44 PM
#33
Burning Brakes
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my indian parents told me to get a loan after scholarships run dry...
but anyway i'd say a japanese car for sure. personally i love my 2nd gen tl as a safe reliable daily driver around a college campus but if you want something else id say the tl.
g35s, 350zs, and s2ks will all get a lot of unwanted attention and the last thing you want to worry about is having your car stolen or broken into.
the 04+ tl would be great but it is fairly hard to park if youre not too good at parallel parking.
but anyway i'd say a japanese car for sure. personally i love my 2nd gen tl as a safe reliable daily driver around a college campus but if you want something else id say the tl.
g35s, 350zs, and s2ks will all get a lot of unwanted attention and the last thing you want to worry about is having your car stolen or broken into.
the 04+ tl would be great but it is fairly hard to park if youre not too good at parallel parking.
and will miss it but its time to move onto something a bit more sporty and powerful. I think the whole stolen broken into this is my main concern since UT area is so dark and shady at times.
02-04-2009, 03:25 PM
#35
Someday, an RS6 Avant+
I say, (drumroll).......
One of these.......
<-------------------
As if I would say anything else. 2006 Legacy GT used for the MFW. AWD to boot, and fun to drive.
One of these.......
<-------------------
As if I would say anything else. 2006 Legacy GT used for the MFW. AWD to boot, and fun to drive.
02-04-2009, 04:00 PM
#36
The Box
I gotta test drive 1 one of these days
02-04-2009, 06:15 PM
#37
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02-04-2009, 06:40 PM
#38
T-Swzy
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elaborate please
talk to your parents, instead of 15k car, take 10k in cash, throw 5k into your current TL and keep 5k as pocket change. that's what i would do anyway. a newer more expensive car is just more maintenance/insurance, which means it continues to suck you dry after the initial 15k. or take 15k in cash, hang onto it, trade in your TL in a few months and nab somethin real nice
but to be honest, i'd jump on a g35 coupe anytime it's ever offered to me
02-07-2009, 03:08 PM
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G35 and 350z share the same platform and engine (FM/VQ35), so thats really a choice of which you think looks better/interior prefs (between the 2, I'd take the G35 and replace the infinity/g35 badges with the correct Nissan/Skyline badges). Either way, Coupe :wink:
S2000 are fun, but look plain unless you dump a lot of money into what are usually expensive aftermarket body mods.
BMWs are reliable regardless of what many think, again the standard non-M 3 series is plain and BMW aftermarket is a black hole for your wallet.
Cadillac... It looks good.., but goodluck with aftermarket and reliability in general. Unless you have always wanted one, you might regret it down the road.
C Class is slow and known to have reliability issues. Looks nice, feels nice, but gets boring from my experience. At the end of the day, its just a good looking car, not much else.
The Audi will be extremely reliable, but boring. Aftermarket exists, so do the high interest personal loans you'll need to get into that market.
Thats just my opinion on the cars you listed. No car is perfect, no single one will be beautiful, reliable, fast, easily modable, and fun. If those are the cars you like, get one. Personally I would also look into older cars, just because something is new doesnt make it better. I'd check into MK4 Supra's (Turbo or non) and IS300s (Both share the 2JZGT non turbo), S14s, etc. With $15K, you can pick a car up cheap and put the rest of the money into it, having a car you would truly enjoy and be your own the way you want it. Again this is just my, dont make a decision like this without considering ALL your options.
Congrats on your achievement and soon-to-be graduation present. Keep up the good work
S2000 are fun, but look plain unless you dump a lot of money into what are usually expensive aftermarket body mods.
BMWs are reliable regardless of what many think, again the standard non-M 3 series is plain and BMW aftermarket is a black hole for your wallet.
Cadillac... It looks good.., but goodluck with aftermarket and reliability in general. Unless you have always wanted one, you might regret it down the road.
C Class is slow and known to have reliability issues. Looks nice, feels nice, but gets boring from my experience. At the end of the day, its just a good looking car, not much else.
The Audi will be extremely reliable, but boring. Aftermarket exists, so do the high interest personal loans you'll need to get into that market.
Thats just my opinion on the cars you listed. No car is perfect, no single one will be beautiful, reliable, fast, easily modable, and fun. If those are the cars you like, get one. Personally I would also look into older cars, just because something is new doesnt make it better. I'd check into MK4 Supra's (Turbo or non) and IS300s (Both share the 2JZGT non turbo), S14s, etc. With $15K, you can pick a car up cheap and put the rest of the money into it, having a car you would truly enjoy and be your own the way you want it. Again this is just my
, dont make a decision like this without considering ALL your options.Congrats on your achievement and soon-to-be graduation present. Keep up the good work