I'm cross-shopping (in order of my preference right now):

1. '06 S4 -Manual ~$55k
2. '04 M3 -SMG ~$49k
3. '00-'02 M5 -Manual ~$40k
4. '02 Masarati coupe -Auto ~$52k
5. '06 Evo MR -Manual ~$36k
6. '06 STI -Manual ~$35k

I know it's alot of cars but I'm just not sure where to start. I know I will want to continue going to the track (drags, auto-x and maybe start a little more road racing). I don't mind a rough ride but would like a fairy quiet interior. I am a little bit money conscious and would probably have buyers remorse if I spend over $40k...at least until the odometer crosses the break-in point.

I drove the S4 today and it was very nice. Very torquey V8, refined interior, subtle looks (maybe too subtle). The car hides it's weight very well. The quattro is very cool. Since I usually keep my cars about 6 years I'm sure I will be needing 4-doors in the near future. I'm not getting any younger ya know (aka kids??)

The M3 and M5 are just awesome to look at and renowned for their handling. I'm not too sure about the older M5's and the fact that they will be off warranty. The Masarati can be had for about the same price as the S4 and it is definitely a much more rare car. Not sure about reliability and future servicability. The STI/MR are MUCH cheaper than the rest and give every inch of performance. My only problems are their cheap interiors and boy-racer looks.

The local BMW dealer has a nice '00 Black M5 with only 14k original miles. They want $44,900 for it (before dealing). Probably won't be BMW certified though. This thing has practically a new engine!

I plan to hold out until the fall if I go for the S4 because the 6-spd manuals get a 60/40 rear biased center differential to fix their oversteering tendency. It already clocks better track times that the current M3 and this differential should help even more. The new M3 will be a beast though, I'm sure.

Any thoughts would be welcomed!

 

How are you planning on purchasing this car?

Investment-wise, I think you should rule out the M3 & M5 just cause the replacements are almost here. You'll take a 10k hit as soon as the new style hits the streets and you'll also feel like you're driving an old car (one of the reasons the CL rocks ).

The Evo MR & STi will deliver 90% of the straightline speed (if not more) of the S4, 110% of the handling, and about 20% of the luxury (if that) of the S4. And they'll leave you with a $20k chunk of change in your pocket.

If you're keeping the CL, no doubt get the Evo or STi. That's another thread in itself but off the top of my head, I'd say STi just cause Mitsu may soon be defunct. If you're getting rid of the CL, you're in a tough spot. What do you think of the C55 AMG? The 550i Sport?

I was also considering the Maserati Coupe, btw, and it sucks. Please don't get it. Especially not the Cambiocorsa (auto/paddle shift). I drove one, it rocks. The engine is perfect and the handling is above par. The ergonomics suck and it makes for a horrible daily driver.

 

Also refer to https://acurazine.com/forums/showthread.php?t=170160 ... guy just did a CL-S to S4 switch.

Edit: I see you posted there already

 

Those are alot of nice cars, all very good choices. Here are my general thoughts: I do not think I want to buy another brand new car anymore. You lose too much money on the initial depreciation, also you can get a pretty good deal on a practically new car with minimal mileage (ala the M5 with 14K miles). I'd say get yourself something used and fun to drive, you'll save yourself lots of money.

That being said, get your self a low mileage current model S4 or a low mileage M3. I thought I read somewhere that the new M3 may not come out for another year, also I think an M3 will hold its value pretty well. I mean the older model M3s are still selling for a pretty penny.

 

S4

 

All very valid points. However, I disagree on the value of the M3. I bet it still only loses $3-5 per year in value. One of the main points of buying a used ('04) M3 is that it has already taken it's first big hit in depreciation. I looked at other used current-gen S4's as well. I just really want the new center differential (60/40 rear-biased) that comes in this next model-year's car.

As far as 'investment', I'm sure only rare Ferrari's fit that definition. I won't buy a car unless I can plunk down at least 1/2 - 3/4. I also stay clear of leases.

 

S4

FYI, the S4 was rated #1 by Consumer Reports in it's category. I think it was upscale sedan

 

Wow, what a great list. I'd say M3 or S4 or wait for the next gen M3's.

 

The next gen M3 is too far away. My S/C'd CLS already has 83k miles and I doubt it will be an easy sell the closer I get to the 100k tranny mark. I figure this fall I can part out my car (S/C, B-pipe, Exhaust, Sways, Strut bar, H&R springs, 18x7 Centerlines, 19x8 Se7en Mods, Gauges, etc) and sell my car stock for a decent down payment on a nice new or barely-used car.

 

maserati..the car is just pimp!

 

Yeah but its an 02, I would pass.........they have more than their share of issues.

And expensive to fix is an understatement, hope you have deep pockets.

 

Now...
"fairy" quiet...
does that mean you CAN'T hear a homosexual screaming inside...
hehe

j/k I couldn't resist...

Seriously though great list...
And I would have to agree with your assesment, that if you plan to keep for about 6 years then I would say that #1 or #3 are good choices for that given that they are four door.

In general I would forget about the Maserati as you will run into difficulties with service et al...

Bang for the buck = STI... but like you stated = Boy Racer = run...

So my first choice would be:
1. M5 (great car, lots of after-market)
2. S4 (although I would look into an 05 instead of 06 and save some money - still a V8)

The rest meh...!!!

Cheers bud
Best of luck with your decision...

Ciao

 

I've decided to go with the STI. Now my problem is whether or not to get an '05 or wait until the specs come out for the '06. Pix are out for the JDM '06 (even uglier than the current STI) but specs are still a secret...

 

i'd wait a little bit and go with the Mitsubishi Evolution 9

 

wait for the 06 if you can...pix look pretty decent to me

 

S4~!

but i've heard the RS4 is comming soon to our shores...
maybe wait for it?

 

I'd love to have the RS4 but the thing will probably cost around $70k. I'm not financially ready for that kind of a car yet. If I can't plop down at least 60-70% of the purchase price then it just doesn't make financial sense.

 

I just worry about Mitsubishi reliability and their lack of honoring warranties. I like the Mitsu looks much better though!

 

what are you gonna do with your blown cl? I remember at the last meet (november?) I was blown away (pun intended )

 

I'd say the S4 or M3 you already had your tuner fun so the EVO and STi I wouldn't do..

 

I think the STi is a fine choice, 4 doors, very reliable, fast as shit, awd, plenty of features. Not to mention, the ride is comfortable (doesn't beat you up).

You can get a fairly conservative color combo to a showy color combo.

Don't think of it as a boy racer car, I have one and it get's a ton of respect (not just from 15 years olds).

If you go for the Evo 9, get the MR.......the 6spd is nice for highways and the Bilstein's are much more forgiving than the standard suspension setups.

 

we can be brothers

 

I thought you were getting a Legacy???

BTW, does anyone know the offsets on the STI wheels?

 

Being that you're in Seattle, I'd also add a used NSX in your list...but, that's just me.

 

same drivetrain for the most part. suspension pieces are swappable etc...

L-GT is a mid sized STi

 

'02 Masarati coupe -Auto ~$52k

 

...and we all know you won't stay stock for long.

 

The maintenance schedule and cost may get hair-raising tho...

 

stage 1- reflash/up pipe = 60wtq/45whp gain ($900)

 

Is software one of the main differences btwn the Legacy engine and the STI??

 

04 m3, but in a manual

 

What does everyone think about the Cadillac CTS-V? I test drove it and that 400hp/395tq LS6 engine is a beast. With GM's employee pricing through the end of the month it can be had for about $48k. The '06 model will come with the LS2.

Comparos have said it does the 1/4 in 13.1@109 and pulls .90 g's on the skidpad. Not bad for a stock Caddy w/ 4 doors! The LS6/LS2's have alot of modding potential as well.

 

Any car you get you're going to mod, right?

YOu think Subaru is gonna be cool with an ECU reflash or whatever else u wanna do to the car?


EVO > STI anyday.

As for your top choice, I'd get something to drive for 2 years (EVO MR). Save more $$$, and get the RS4 when it arrives.

 

Subaru is much easier to deal with than Mitsubishi, who is on the balls of their ass.

My buddy just got an Evo RS and wishes he just got the STI.

I've owned both and prefer the STI myself.

 

06 STI 5MT

 

'06 S4 -Manual -- if I had to pick one from the list
or else C6 vette

 

1. m5 stick
2. s4 stick

 

I think now I can deal the CTS-V down to almost $40k. That is an AMAZING deal for what you get! $40k and I can eat just about anything up in a straight line. Top Gear's comparo showed that the V8 S4 couldn't pass it on the track and the CTS just outright spanked the S4 in the straights. They still preferred the S4 though.

 

If you can get the CTS-V for that much, DO IT!!!

My cousin has the regular CTS, and its an amazing car. Great pick-up, decent handling, and pretty roomy interior and well designed. Much better than the GM interiors of the past.

I can only imagine what a CTS-V must drive like

Plus I have a feeling maintence on an CTS would be less than an S4, even though both are new. Parts for German cars just costs more generally.

 

Remember, for 06 the CTS-V get's the LS2......