Thinking of buying a car, $20-35k, need some ideas
08-21-2009, 02:50 PM
#1
Burning Brakes
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Thinking of buying a car, $20-35k, need some ideas
Currently have an 05 TL (70k miles).
No complaints about it (but it has lost the excitement factor it had in its first couple of years).
My parents car just died.
There's two choices:
1. They can buy another car (maybe $10-20k), something like an accord/camry (they really don't car about HP/Torque)
2. I can give them my TL, and get myself another car (spending anywhere from 20 to 35k). If I were to go with another car, it would have to be better than my TL.
I'm still contemplating whether I really need to spend big bucks on a new/used car.
But if I do go down route #2, what are some options (ie what would you get)
My requirements
1. Needs to have 4 doors
2. Needs to be headache free (maintance/reliability wise)
I think #2 takes away the BMW 335.
I'm leaning towards the Lexus IS 350.
Should I consider another new TL (or would it just be too similar to the one I already have)?
What would you do if you were in my shoes? What other cars should I throw in to consider?
No complaints about it (but it has lost the excitement factor it had in its first couple of years).
My parents car just died.
There's two choices:
1. They can buy another car (maybe $10-20k), something like an accord/camry (they really don't car about HP/Torque)
2. I can give them my TL, and get myself another car (spending anywhere from 20 to 35k). If I were to go with another car, it would have to be better than my TL.
I'm still contemplating whether I really need to spend big bucks on a new/used car.
But if I do go down route #2, what are some options (ie what would you get)
My requirements
1. Needs to have 4 doors
2. Needs to be headache free (maintance/reliability wise)
I think #2 takes away the BMW 335.
I'm leaning towards the Lexus IS 350.
Should I consider another new TL (or would it just be too similar to the one I already have)?
What would you do if you were in my shoes? What other cars should I throw in to consider?
08-21-2009, 02:57 PM
#2
Well #1 I'd probably just let my parents buy their own new car and keep my TL.
But, if you want to get a new/used car, I'd likely buy a CPO Audi A6. I know most people are afraid of Audi's b/c they still think it's 2003, however, we are on our second one and both have been more bulletproof then my TL-S and CL were.
But that's just me and I love Audi's cars and our dealer here is awesome.
The IS would not be a bad way to go either but coming from a TL you're going to think it is small. New TL isn't bad if you can get past it's ugliness.
Others CPO's I would consider... 3G Acura TL-S, Acura RL, Lexus GS, Infiniti G. Stuff along those lines...
But, if you want to get a new/used car, I'd likely buy a CPO Audi A6. I know most people are afraid of Audi's b/c they still think it's 2003, however, we are on our second one and both have been more bulletproof then my TL-S and CL were.
But that's just me and I love Audi's cars and our dealer here is awesome.
The IS would not be a bad way to go either but coming from a TL you're going to think it is small. New TL isn't bad if you can get past it's ugliness.
Others CPO's I would consider... 3G Acura TL-S, Acura RL, Lexus GS, Infiniti G. Stuff along those lines...
Last edited by juniorbean; 08-21-2009 at 02:59 PM.
08-21-2009, 02:57 PM
#3
TellinItLikeItIsSince1/06
yeah honestly, just save up more money for later and let your parents get their car...
but if i were you, i would get (b/c i need AWD or FWD for chicago winters)
1). 2006+ 330xi - 255hp, relatively lightweight, 50/50 weight distribution for perfect handling, BMW = driver's car...
2). B7 Audi S4 340HP 4.2L V8, you'll get a solid 20mpg, Quattro, best interior ever! IMHO.
---> Audi's reliability is said to be WAY better this time around since the car is Naturally-aspirated, and not dealing with complex turbos anymore
3). 2007+ Acura TL Type-S reliability is one of the best in the business, amazing interior second only to S4 (for this price range), 286HP, navi, backup camera, etc.
Lexus IS is really a great looking car! but to me companies like lexus and mercedes aren't really Drivers' Cars like my 3 choices above if you guys know what i mean...
those would be my choices!
but if i were you, i would get (b/c i need AWD or FWD for chicago winters)
1). 2006+ 330xi - 255hp, relatively lightweight, 50/50 weight distribution for perfect handling, BMW = driver's car...
2). B7 Audi S4 340HP 4.2L V8, you'll get a solid 20mpg, Quattro, best interior ever! IMHO.
---> Audi's reliability is said to be WAY better this time around since the car is Naturally-aspirated, and not dealing with complex turbos anymore
3). 2007+ Acura TL Type-S reliability is one of the best in the business, amazing interior second only to S4 (for this price range), 286HP, navi, backup camera, etc.
Lexus IS is really a great looking car! but to me companies like lexus and mercedes aren't really Drivers' Cars like my 3 choices above if you guys know what i mean...
those would be my choices!
Last edited by '01White3.2CL; 08-21-2009 at 03:00 PM.
08-21-2009, 04:31 PM
#6
Well, since it's not really your decision to make...you're kind of jumping to conclusions by already making a list of things YOU'D rather have. Fact is, it's really up to them...it's really about whatever THEY want to do, not what'll get you out of your car (unless that's what they decide).
So the easy way to figure it out before getting ahead of yourself is to just ask them.
So the easy way to figure it out before getting ahead of yourself is to just ask them.
08-21-2009, 04:33 PM
#7
The sizzle in the Steak
keep the TL
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08-21-2009, 06:02 PM
#9
Someday, an RS6 Avant+
2009 Legacy GT
Has symmetrical AWD (like Audi), good power, very nice handling, and very good reliability.
Am I pimping? Not really. Go drive one then let us know if it makes the grade of the buy BMW/Audi/Lexus crowd.
Has symmetrical AWD (like Audi), good power, very nice handling, and very good reliability.
Am I pimping? Not really. Go drive one then let us know if it makes the grade of the buy BMW/Audi/Lexus crowd.
08-21-2009, 10:30 PM
#10
Drifting
Join Date: Feb 2009
Location: Madison, Nj || Woodbridge, CT
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I agree with the legacy, theyve really come a long way in class.
Also, id recommend the GS if you dont care that lexus/toyota has no idea what a manual transmission is (unless you get an is250)
to put it in terms youd understand, the IS is the size of the TSX and the GS is the size of the TL.
Also, id recommend the GS if you dont care that lexus/toyota has no idea what a manual transmission is (unless you get an is250)
to put it in terms youd understand, the IS is the size of the TSX and the GS is the size of the TL.
08-22-2009, 01:41 AM
#11
'10 Hyundai Genesis Coupe
Hopefully they'll let you get a new car! Too bad you can't get a coupe, a Genisis coupe would have been nice.
If I were purchasing a newer four door sedan I would contemplate getting a IS350.
If I were purchasing a newer four door sedan I would contemplate getting a IS350.
08-22-2009, 05:59 AM
#13
08-22-2009, 06:01 AM
#14
Fahrvergnügen'd
I'm seriously debating selling mine. A guy had a valve break off in the cylinder and trash the engine. Final bill was $22,000. I don't think he paid more than $28k for the car when it was running.
08-22-2009, 07:23 AM
#16
Someday, an RS6 Avant+
$22K for an engine?
The smart thing is to keep the TL, and your parents can get something nice and safe.
The smart thing is to keep the TL, and your parents can get something nice and safe.
08-22-2009, 09:42 AM
#18
Registered Member
Well first, there is the consideration of keeping your TL. But if you are getting bored with it, then chances are, most other cars in the same category will become boring to you as well.
You didn't mention which transmission you have, but I'm going to assume automatic since those tend to cause boredom quicker than a manual. But if you are of a mind to go automatic and want a mid-sized sedan, if you want new consider the Ford Fusion. It is rated higher in quality than either the Accord or the Camry (Consumer Reports and JD Power) and it falls right in your price range. Or the Accord. They look better than they ever have and they have more serious power under the hood. If you go used, what about a G35?
Or if you can break out of the sedan mold, there is always the Mustang V8. Great machine and right in your price area.
You didn't mention which transmission you have, but I'm going to assume automatic since those tend to cause boredom quicker than a manual. But if you are of a mind to go automatic and want a mid-sized sedan, if you want new consider the Ford Fusion. It is rated higher in quality than either the Accord or the Camry (Consumer Reports and JD Power) and it falls right in your price range. Or the Accord. They look better than they ever have and they have more serious power under the hood. If you go used, what about a G35?
Or if you can break out of the sedan mold, there is always the Mustang V8. Great machine and right in your price area.
08-22-2009, 06:27 PM
#19
Burning Brakes
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Thanks for all the responses. I've decided to keep the TL. After thinking about it, I don't think its worth spending the big bucks on a car that may not be all that much better than what I currently have.
For those mentioning the parents: I'd already talked to them about the idea of them taking the TL instead of buying a car. I really don't know of any parents who wouldn't appreciate their child giving them a car worth 15k (or atleast appreciate the offer if the car didn't meet their needs)
For those mentioning the parents: I'd already talked to them about the idea of them taking the TL instead of buying a car. I really don't know of any parents who wouldn't appreciate their child giving them a car worth 15k (or atleast appreciate the offer if the car didn't meet their needs)
08-22-2009, 07:31 PM
#20
Team Owner
iTrader: (4)
Thanks for all the responses. I've decided to keep the TL. After thinking about it, I don't think its worth spending the big bucks on a car that may not be all that much better than what I currently have.
For those mentioning the parents: I'd already talked to them about the idea of them taking the TL instead of buying a car. I really don't know of any parents who wouldn't appreciate their child giving them a car worth 15k (or atleast appreciate the offer if the car didn't meet their needs)
For those mentioning the parents: I'd already talked to them about the idea of them taking the TL instead of buying a car. I really don't know of any parents who wouldn't appreciate their child giving them a car worth 15k (or atleast appreciate the offer if the car didn't meet their needs)
08-22-2009, 09:29 PM
#21
Suzuka Master
One car comes to mind IF you decide to change cars : Infiniti G37s But like others have mentionned, keeping the TL would be the wiser choice.
08-23-2009, 12:09 AM
#22
Fahrvergnügen'd
But I still owe $18k on it and don't have a warranty. If something does happen to the car, the engine replacement could be more than the car is worth. So I'd have 18k in payments left to pay on a car I can't drive.
I have been considering a warranty but even with the best warranty company the guy that had the $22k engine replacement came up with $5k out of pocket after paying a couple Gs for the warranty itself.
I'll earn about 10-13% less this year than last year and I am concerned that I could have gotten myself into something I'm not prepared to get out of if the shit hits the fan.
I love my car. It is the best car I've ever owned (or that my family has owned). I just can't see how keeping it makes much sense.
08-23-2009, 02:45 AM
#23
Someday, an RS6 Avant+
The car runs great. Haven't had anything wrong with it other than a tail light went out. 46k miles on it right now.
But I still owe $18k on it and don't have a warranty. If something does happen to the car, the engine replacement could be more than the car is worth. So I'd have 18k in payments left to pay on a car I can't drive.
I have been considering a warranty but even with the best warranty company the guy that had the $22k engine replacement came up with $5k out of pocket after paying a couple Gs for the warranty itself.
I'll earn about 10-13% less this year than last year and I am concerned that I could have gotten myself into something I'm not prepared to get out of if the shit hits the fan.
I love my car. It is the best car I've ever owned (or that my family has owned). I just can't see how keeping it makes much sense.
But I still owe $18k on it and don't have a warranty. If something does happen to the car, the engine replacement could be more than the car is worth. So I'd have 18k in payments left to pay on a car I can't drive.
I have been considering a warranty but even with the best warranty company the guy that had the $22k engine replacement came up with $5k out of pocket after paying a couple Gs for the warranty itself.
I'll earn about 10-13% less this year than last year and I am concerned that I could have gotten myself into something I'm not prepared to get out of if the shit hits the fan.
I love my car. It is the best car I've ever owned (or that my family has owned). I just can't see how keeping it makes much sense.
OP: Smart. If things change later, you can always trade or give the car to your parents.
08-23-2009, 08:36 AM
#24
Fahrvergnügen'd
I'm probably going to sell it privately and then look for something used that is certified.
I'm leaning towards an R32 because I just can't drive a FWD car anymore.
08-24-2009, 11:18 AM
#27
'10 Hyundai Genesis Coupe
Thanks for all the responses. I've decided to keep the TL. After thinking about it, I don't think its worth spending the big bucks on a car that may not be all that much better than what I currently have.
For those mentioning the parents: I'd already talked to them about the idea of them taking the TL instead of buying a car. I really don't know of any parents who wouldn't appreciate their child giving them a car worth 15k (or atleast appreciate the offer if the car didn't meet their needs)
For those mentioning the parents: I'd already talked to them about the idea of them taking the TL instead of buying a car. I really don't know of any parents who wouldn't appreciate their child giving them a car worth 15k (or atleast appreciate the offer if the car didn't meet their needs)
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