Well, less then 24 hours back in San Diego and my car was stolen from the parking garage at my apartment... So much for Summit "Security" acting as a deterrent (anyone that has heard of them would know how much of a joke they are).

Anyways, I know how much I hate all of the this car or that car, but I'm really not sure of a reasonable option in the price range that I need because I was planning on keeping my old car until I upgraded to something a bit nicer, but I'm not in a position where that makes sense quite yet.

I'm thinking that a manual transmission sedan for around $12,000-14,000 might be ideal (I could easily live with a coupe which is what I had before but I would prefer the extra space). Of course, I'm looking for something with reasonable mileage, hopefully <80,000? depending on the car.

So far, cars that I'm curious about are definitely the Lexus IS300 and ~2001 BMW 540i. The 3 series for some reason doesn't do much for me and the same goes for the A4 (in my price range), although I am still looking into those also. I've also thought some about a Subaru Impreza, but the interior is not quite on par with the others. Going with something like an Accord is on the radar if it simply makes more sense, but it just doesn't really have any character.

Are there any other nice options that I'm overlooking in this price range? Also, how well do cars like an early 2000's 540i hold up with higher mileage? I know that eventually there will be things like replacing bushings etc, but I'm wondering more about fundamental problems like the cooling system on the 540i which seems to be somewhat problematic?

Thanks in advance for any help

 

You might be able to find a good Honda civic si sedan in that price range. Fun car to drive and very comfortable as well.

 

is300?

 

g35 coupe, manual trans?

 

I would stay away from the BMW's (or other German makes) just due to the service costs you might encounter. I would stick the the Lexus-Honda-Toyota route only due to the lower cost of service work since you are not looking to purchase with a new car warranty. Brakes, window switches, window motors, shocks/struts, etc cheaper on the Japanese imports.

Taking dad hat off now, what about an older 911, say the mid to late 80's, possible even an early 964... you are in cali, there are a ton of cars there.

Wilson

 

Infiniti G35 6MT coupe or sedan would be my choice

 

I have driven a 350z for a few years which I think I would do over a G35 coupe, and I haven't seen many G35 sedans around my price range. I'll look into those again.

I just got back from checking out a few dealers, they didn't have a 540i but did have a 2001 525i which I know is not an updated version, but after driving that it has definitely kept the e39 on my radar. Are there certain common problems that make it something to avoid? I'm aware that maintenance in general could be more but I do all major work myself so thats not as significant of a factor. If I got an e39, once I get some time I would be doing at least some M5 or aftermarket bits to stiffen things up and get some more feedback because it is a bit plush stock.

They did also have an IS 300 and surprisingly, it just didn't do anything for me so I'm taking that off of the list.

I think I've finally calmed down a little over having my car stolen... hopefully I can figure out a suitable car for getting soon since my vehicle situation has changed since I got my last car (now have a brand new Daytona 675 to enjoy, but motorcycles have their limits when it's my only way to get around).

 

For that kind of money I would get a really nice 300zx TT

 

Last time I checked, those don't quite have 4 doors.

 

Where was your car stolen from?