Sheesh, Is it that big of a deal that someone here actually drives like a normal person?! I rarely have the urge to push my car to the limits. I do occasionally drive quickly but never redlined a vehicle.

Thanks JacobPockRos for the offer. I think I will just let the car sit before I decide what to do with it. The car feels a bit creaky and old now but I have had it for so long that it will be hard to part ways. When I do decide to move on, it will be a sad time for sure.

Has anyone ever had a hard time saying goodbye to a car?

 

My dad had a hard time letting go of his 1983 GMC S15 truck that he donated to charity in 2003. He ordered it brand new in 1982, drove across the US, and that's also the vehicle he took my mother to the hospital in when she was pregnant with yours truly.

Even though I was 14 when it was gone, and I was excited about the new vehicle, it was very sad to see it go. I have some pictures and a short video of it.

 

I drive like a normal person as to most people I know... however, I go over 3k RPM a couple of times. My "commute" to/from work is 2.5 miles and I do it twice each way while merging


Thought I was going to have a hard time saying good-bye to my 2002 TL-S in 2005... but in the end, I did not. Afterall, it's just a car. Even though I'm a car guy... I've never really been that attached to any of them so far...

 

I would recommend the Mazdaspeed 3, Faster than both the Mistu and the Mini. More than likely out handle both as well.

 

A faster car would not be utilized by the OP. Might I recommend a hybrid or subcompact? How about the Fit, Fiesta or Mazda2?

 

I like the RSX and tC option.

And for those saying many people go over 3k rpm, I rarely do, and I've got a 4-cylinder. Merging is pretty much the only time it's necessary in daily driving, and even then I can get up to speed without touching 3k rpm. Different people drive differently.

 

RSX would be a downgrade from a CL Type-S. OP should get an audi a3

 

Also the Volvo C30

 

According to the OP's driving habits, most of the cars suggested would be a waste. A Corolla or even the new Fiesta would be ideal. There's also the Kia Forte, Hyundai Elantra, Honda Civic, VW Golf to name a few more.

 

Unfortunately there is no replacement for this car. A 2+2 touring vehicle with good power and a huge trunk? MB's CL comes to mind but that's $$.

 

I am having trouble letting go of my 03 cls6. I could get a new car but am putting it off for now. I was looking at the mazdaspeed3, wrx, gti, evo gsr, etc.

Never going over 3k rpm actually ins't normal. I am not normal also but to the other extreme. I redline my car every time i drive it.

I would suggest the honda fit, mazda 2, fiesta, etc since you dont seem to do sporty driving. Anything better would most likely not get used. If you want a better car for image reasons I would understand since I know many people who buy sports cars but never drive them fast at all.

 

Remarkable how this thread still keeps popping up. Thanks all for the excellent recommendations. I like aspects of all cars recommended however, they probably would not work, especially the smaller hatchbacks. I predominantly drive on the highway so I tend to prefer something that stays relaxed at higher speed driving i.e. lower RPM'S at highway speeds.

Also, I want something that has decent torque off the line which eliminates almost all subcompacts, save for the turbos. Small engines need to be worked hard to make appreciable power. With my old MR2 Spyder, only a tailwind could get that thing moving with any sign of urgency. Incidentally, I did test drive a Honda Fit and found it adequate at speed but rather gasping at highway speeds. Not that I drive fast but I do not like having to push a car to get it moving along...if that makes sense.

Anyways, I have put off car searching for now. I am driving my Subaru (Forester XT) for now. It is adequate but piggish at the pumps and braking wise feels more akin to stepping on a wet sponge than actually slowing down...wonder why that is. The current car topping my list is probably a Lexus GS450H but I will sit on that decision for now.

About the Acura CL, it has gone to sleep, never to reawaken. The engine runs but the car does not move. I think the transmission has immobilized the car that is otherwise ready and able. I wonder what I should do with it. Should I abandon it in a car heaven? Should I let it rot out in a barn? Or should I keep it in the garage...probably the latter.