Did you regret buying a "mid-life crisis" sports car?
Posted by amotion578@reddit | askcarguys | View on Reddit | 245 comments
The concept of a Midnight Purple 6spd Nissan Z entered my cranium and realistically, it's possible, if not wildly reckless feeling, and so I'm here.
...I can't help but wonder if at this stage in life, it's time to let go of my old "inexpensive + reliable > fast" doctrine and... live a little. Even if it's impractical as sin given what I'm used to.
The stable now as a mid-late 30s single:
- Full size truck for truck things
- The (former) commuter TDI
- first car (hasn't run in awhile, sentimental, has potential to being rowdy/fun with a sizeable investment)
- an old timer, objectively rusty shitbox that I've saved from the crusher, (really could use air ride and some fiddling to be amazing, its very uncommon and definitely uncommon not being parked in a field)
(oh and all of these are turbodiesels)
I'm full remote, paid well enough (not out of this world but not poorly), I don't have much driving to do outside of running to the store and around town, occasionally jaunt 30 miles up to the next town to meet friends for dinner.
I'm legitimately having to take long loops to let the diesels have even a chance to hit operating temperature. Pre-COVID the TDI was seeing 5 days a week of 60 freeway miles, and why I bought it at all. Otherwise I can't help but feel the short drives are killing my diesels.
Realistically, this would not be an add to fleet, but in all reality, removing everything that isn't the truck for need, space, time, commitment reasons (as much as it would hurt to part ways with all three).
Financially I can afford it with -almost- having enough cash on hand to buy it outright, if I didn't care about being completely broke afterwards. So financing with 30-40% down was the initial thought, maybe 3 year loan? Insurance is double what I'm paying for the TDI, not surprised there, at all, in general "what I'm signing up for."
If I were to go through with this, the Z itself would probably end up with Nismo exhaust, suspension, and (I didn't see a Nismo but could be one) intake. If those could be added without voiding the mfg warranty, awesome, let's go, now (if not after warranty). Can't leave anything stock :P
Did you go through something like this yourself? Would you do it again? Would you have changed anything, if so, what? Am I fool for even considering, or a fool for not starting the process already and damn the torpedoes?
Rastus77@reddit
Street legal sand rail. 1935cc. Very confused Mustang and Camaro owners. A couple of perplexed Corvette owners.
SaltyDalt@reddit
I’m also 30s and remote. Just bought a Civic Type-R to have a fun car.
If it doesn’t bring you financial distress, buy whatever sparks joy man.
If I didn’t want the hatchback and back seats to cart my dogs around I’d probably have a Z tbh, I love the way they look (full disclosure I haven’t driven one, maybe they’re not aligned with my driving preferences idk).
And if money wasn’t a roadblock I’d be in a Lotus Emira 🤤😂
Life’s too short to have a boring car.
Rick60491685@reddit
Hell no! I turned 40 and treated myself to a 24 CT5 Blackwing! My only regret is not doing it sooner! Nothing beats getting into a car your paying for and genuinely love it EVERY time!! Just do it
Ok_Application_2292@reddit
My 2014 Mustang 6 years ago got me 128 certification and $2500 to avoid the reckless driving charge
TortaSlayer5000@reddit
NOPE. Maserati Gang 🔱
UnderstandingLong901@reddit
This is the way I look at it. If you can afford it without stressing about bills, do it. You only live once, and worst case scenario you lose a few grand selling it if you decide it was a bad decision. There's days I regret having 2 weekend toys, but it's never while I'm driving them.
amotion578@reddit (OP)
Yeah, definitely could swing it. Financially irresponsible? Eh, probably, and wouldn't care. It's not cash, but it's not a 0 down 84 month loan, but its not without touching savings sooooo best 3 out of 5?
Its more for the "leaving my comfort zone" for "definitely off character" and "radical vehicular shakedown" reasons was what I was interested in hearing reddit's experiences in "mid life crisis"
yepthisisathrowaway9@reddit
I’m in my early 30s and I have a 05’ WRX Project car and recently picked up a 13’ Cayenne VR6 as a daily. It had 25k miles and I sent it lol.
I had a 23’ Frontier but really wasn’t utilizing the truck for truck stuff, thus the Cayenne. It’s honestly a glorified VW Touareg if you know the 3.0L TDI and the VR6 engines bc they put them inside the Audi Q7/8.
I have no kids No wife Good career as an engineer Roth IRA maxed 3 month emergency savings
All my shit is taken care so I’m doing what I want lol. Just go for it man. You can literally die tomorrow and be mad af you never did something
hambonelicker@reddit
No regrets, I bought a bmw model I’ve always like and I loooooove driving that car.
dpx222@reddit
Hell no. As a car enthusiast and a father of 4 boys under 10, driving is one of the only times I have to myself. Went out and bought a 992 GTS and never looked back.
phillybean1984@reddit
Life’s short, I bought a 2012 Cayman S 3 years ago, hasn’t been a single time I’m not smiling after getting home after driving
arneeche@reddit
Dude go for it. I went a different route. I didn't buy a new one. I bought a project car. I bought a used 84 944 Porsche, it's not running or driving yet I go out in the evenings and I tinker and relax and hopefully we'll have it running and driving this summer.
N_ModeVN@reddit
I’m 43. I don’t regret my ND3
NapalEnema2020@reddit
Man sod all that. Im 50 with a bright green RS3 and a Type R. I like them. For me. Everyone else can go be boring and mind their business.
Repulsive_Piano274@reddit
36 in a week or 2 and my mid life reset is hopefully going to include a byd shark 6 .
Old_Cars@reddit
Nope I bought a midlife crisis sports car when I was in my 20s I enjoyed it for a couple years and decided I wanted something else because the sport cars were always more of a passing interest. I’m glad I got the experience to own one and let someone else have a chance at it
TommyRiddles@reddit
No. It brought me immune jou.
patsbimmer1@reddit
No but also ive been buying fun cars for a long time so saving and spending the actual money for my 911 was terrifying but worth it and I can’t wait for the next adventure.
Also the Z is an objectively good car. Drove an auto only but it was on par with the mk5 supra. Do it!
Livid_Marsupial4455@reddit
I went to a dealership for an oil change and walked out with a 2 year dodge Durango for 35.000 and still had my paid off and running without any problems Taurus / wife called me a few names
LazyLancer@reddit
At 33 I got a MINI JCW. Best car-related decision ever.
OneWholeShare@reddit
Now that’s a decision I could get behind. Such a fun car. If I stayed working for the mini dealership I would’ve moved on one but then I moved over to the BMW side and an mperformance m3 sat on the showroom for 6 months teasing me
shtoops@reddit
Kinda wanting a r129 s600 .. I figure a v12 will hold some value.
Ry_Guy_1135@reddit
I bought a C6 corvette when I was 34. Was a dream since I was a kid. My kids were a little too little at the time, but we still did it. I got a TON of comments from friends and people, yet they always wanted to go for a ride. I don’t regret it at all. I would do it again and I plan to I. A few years (upgrade to C8). Life is short, and nothing is guaranteed.
foofooca@reddit
I plan on getting a C7 in 2 years and will have a 3 year old. I always worry about what people say, but they most likely won’t know that I paid cash!
Ry_Guy_1135@reddit
Even if you don’t pay cash, who cares? It’s your life. Let them talk shit.
That-one_dude-trying@reddit
Nope
PhD77777@reddit
I bought a VW GTI when I was 59. A little past mid-life, but that's when nobody else would drive the Dodge Caravan, and we were no longer using it for more than getting me to work, so I bought what *I* wanted.
Siegepkayer67@reddit
Purple Nissan Z? Get a Yellow Z06 if you wanna have a real mid life crisis lol
AngelMaster333@reddit
I think he's got his mind set. You can get a low mileage for under $40k with under 10k miles so there's a significant price difference there.
ragingduck@reddit
Hell no.
Repulsive-Way272@reddit
Poverty prevents me from even a decent daily that fits all my need much less something I want.
subaruguy14@reddit
If you’re doing what you need to be with savings and emergency fund and adulting, really can’t see a reason not to. The new Z is also highly under appreciated in the market, so odds of getting a deal that helps you sleep at night are quite high.
DontBeSuspicious_00@reddit
I bought a midlife crisis garage, including lift and compressor, so I can work on the pieces of shit I own.
10/10 no regerts.
vikingjedi23@reddit
Nope I wanted a Corvette for over 30 years. Im planning on keeping my 50th anniversary C5 forever or at least Im too old to drive it lol
jsaranczak@reddit
As long as your retirement is funded and your mortgage is a good midway through it's lifetime, go for it.
amotion578@reddit (OP)
I don't know if I can objectively say yes to the first two. "Probably not as good as it could be, but definitely solid?"
Mortgage definitely no, but bought during the low rates COVID era, and somehow 100k of equity materialized out of thin air after that because the house hasn't burned down, and so PMI is gone. So... No to midway... Almost a 1/3rd?
ozpinoy@reddit
follow a budget system. That's the answer to your question. I follow one and it has pulled me out of poverty and allowed me to pay off my debts. Including a 36k car paid off in 18 months.
depends on what you want to do. I have money allocated for "wants". Since this is car section, it falls under that. Actually I have a 4.5k car, that's the need. The wants are what I want to do with it. which is 5k a year - shared with other wants, computer? holiday? expensive restaurants ? all come from the same budget.
I understand the title of the topic - sports car. You probably have to pull in the "needs" car and save a bit more for the "want" car combine them and buy the "want" car.
emergency savings - a must. even before thinking about the "want". Retirment funds? this is a marathon type journey. You put some in there.
Here's what I follow as a guideline
HP-12C@reddit
If you can't objectively and confidently say yes to the first two... Do not buy a toy right now. Doesnt mean no - just not right now.
charge556@reddit
Congrats on your equity. I bought after covid so If the market goes bust Ill probably lose the very miniscule equtiy I do have....but hey beats renting for the next 18 years I guess lol.
ozpinoy@reddit
No I didn't. I do want one. But doing the finance math thing. I simply can't afford it. I do have a do what you want money. It's shared with everything do what you want and that's roughly 5k a year, that's it. this year I spent it on 3 days travel 1.5k.
though I don't have that nice car. I want to build an existing car. This bumper I want to have costs 1k. but 2k to deliver. Then this headlight I want to change. can't source the RHD lights all LHD. Then the usual new wheels. that alone is 2k. See? that's where my dilema is. all to fit 5k per year.
Doublestack00@reddit
I regret selling it.
mydoghank@reddit
I saw this and just had to chime in kind of on a humorous angle though, and not meant in any sort of judgmental way.
My husband died several years ago….and when I met him, he had a minivan for daily life but also had a bright red Corvette convertible. I believe it was an early 2000s model…but I can’t recall exactly. He adored this car and drove it as much as he could outside of his work time. It was fun to drive it out to the coast now and again and so I definitely enjoyed that. However, I learned to hate that car.😂
First of all, you’d fill it up and it would use up about half a tank just going up the road to the grocery store. Hated that. And it broke down on us regularly too. One time it broke down when I was dropping off our kid at school. I was rumbling up to the school in this big red convertible and it just totally died. And mind you a lot of people in that community were very environmentally-conscious and were driving cars that reflected this and the corvette was definitely not whatsoever in that category. After it puttered out, I didn’t quite make it to the curb and was blocking all the other parents trying to drop off. I’m sure they were secretly making fun of me having this big bad convertible that was clearly unreliable.
It was the most unreliable car I’d ever had…and that’s saying a lot because I had a terrible time with my Ford that I was driving at the time as well. But this car definitely beat that record but I never was clear on exactly what was wrong with it. It seemed like it was always something different every time.
My husband became ill over time and we discussed the need to sell the car. I know it was really hard for him because the car was very special and represented freedom to him. I could see how emotionally attached he was…but he finally agreed to sell it…and I thought he was going to cry when he heard it rumbling up the road after we found a buyer. In fact, it was not hard at all to find a buyer even though the car was giving us problems.
I guess my point is that even with all the issues, that car made him so happy and I’m glad he had it when he did. So I say do what makes you happy. However, for me personally….I will take my little reliable Yaris over a car like that any day.😂
ImperturbableSUV@reddit
If i got mine at 26, is it considered midlife 😅The only annoying thing for me is figuring out where to put it. I rent and keep it garaged at my parents not too far away. I just wish I had easy access to it if it's a random nice day.
tigerb47@reddit
Didn't regret buying the last sports car but we started to have trouble getting in and out of it. Now we have a car with a higher seat so you can open the door and sit down without going so low.
kicksxbox@reddit
So much I had to get another
jaytharen@reddit
Lmao, I did the opposite, I owned nothing but coupes, and hot hatches till I was 38. Now I dont wanna repair my car constantly so I drive an econo box now
amotion578@reddit (OP)
Grass is always greener 😂
jaytharen@reddit
Lol kinda glad I have a car that gets 40 MPG rn
amotion578@reddit (OP)
Yeah no doubt
TDI life: 43.9 mpg average over the last 7 years (highest single tank was 51.9 over 230 miles)
qkdsm7@reddit
I've had something at least capable of low/mid 13 second 1/4 mile since I was 17. Not that it's fast, wasn't back then and especially isn't now, but it's about the line of "this can always be a bit exciting" for me.
I suspect I always will have one or two toys like that.
411592@reddit
Nope
fishscaleSF5@reddit
While not a sports car stock, I have dumped close to 100k into a build that isn’t running and I’m well past the point of no return. I could have done a much simpler and straight forward build but I just had to challenge myself and do something that hadn’t been done and there are times I debate on just parting it out, but I know I’ll be even angrier with myself not seeing the project through.
Silver_728@reddit
It happens! I have about 160k into my build and its not 100% finished yet.
radmd74@reddit
Which car?
Silver_728@reddit
Camaro
Gtrex4@reddit
Tf are y’all building?? Smh I’m thinking to spend 10k for a v8 swap n overthinking
Silver_728@reddit
A 6 second car.
fishscaleSF5@reddit
A fellow masochist, a good evening to you sir
Silver_728@reddit
Hehe yep! A little over 60k just under the hood.
fishscaleSF5@reddit
I’m around 30. I will be SO MAD if it blows up shortly after complete assembly and tune but I way overbuilt it for the boost going through it.
Silver_728@reddit
I went way overboard so it wouldn't blow up.
Noonan billet block, billet crank and rods rated for 3k hp setup for a precision promo 88mm.
fishscaleSF5@reddit
Different platform but same ethos as I
Silver_728@reddit
very different platforms. this is a grudge race/drag and drive car.
fishscaleSF5@reddit
Yeah I’m building a sleeper 2001 forester. Avoided the max HP trap in favour of handling, acceleration, and relative reliability.
Silver_728@reddit
its a no time 1/8 mile car, race for cash usually 5/10k per run.
fishscaleSF5@reddit
Damn. That’s wild. 3000hp makes sense with that kind of scrill on the line.
Silver_728@reddit
Blower or turbo build?
fishscaleSF5@reddit
Turbski. Block can handle 700whp, turbo tops out at 470. Aiming for 420 (blaze it) to the wheels
Silver_728@reddit
thats really the way to do it! stout short block and keep the limitatioin in the power adder.
fishscaleSF5@reddit
Made the chassis rigid as fuck too in order to get all power to the pavement
amotion578@reddit (OP)
Hear you there. It's why my first car is sleeping, untouched.
The motor build has neighborhood 4k in parts alone, sending injection pump out
Probably full maintenance touch on everything in the motor would be wise
So there's ballpark 300hp and 450tq on a stock bottom end that allegedly will take it
Then the transmission is made of glass as is the rear end
Either like a tremec T56 and then all the fun that comes with fabricating pedal assemblies and making it fit into custom driveshaft into whatever uprated rear end
Or a ZF6 from Europe
Oh and before tariffs and whatever shit would happen that prevents completion
Just uphill challenge the whole way. Or, scrap that literally, go make financial mistakes and have 400hp by Friday afternoon 🫠
IDPTheory@reddit
I wish I still had it. Mint Rev 4 Toyota MR2 MK2 moon roof in black. Feet in the nose cone and that banzai Toyota/Yamaha engine screaming up to 7,500k rpm right behind you. A car you turn to look back at after parking it.
JuanManuelFangio32@reddit
from a guy who has a ruby stone wrapped 911 and in deep ML crisis...
Occasionally, I'd think i don't drive the car enough, i have no time to take it to track anyway, so maintenance insurance isn't worth it, would save me a lot of hassle and mental energy if i just sell it.
but then every time i drive the car it makes it all worth it...
drewthebrave@reddit
I'm glad that I had a series of fun cars (Integra, GTI, Miata) before I had kids - because now that Minivan and SUV are the best choices for how we use our cars.
If you don't need more than 2 seats, go for it! Life is too short to drive boring cars. Definitely test drive your dream car along with a few alternatives (Miata, Mustang/Camaro, used Cayman, used Corvette) before you make your decision. There are a ton of great cars out there that deserve your attention. Just gotta find the one that's right for you!
amotion578@reddit (OP)
The alternatives, realistically, like RS3 or TT for that glorious 5cyl. I've spent enough time in VAG world that it's a blessing and curse. The rest of those yeah I get it, just not sparking joy.
Always had a soft spot for 240Z, 300ZX (moreso the Z32 I think is just a wicked looking thing, y'know maybe I go hunt for one of those instead for yet another basket case ride 😂)
I have quickly started to appreciate the homages to yesteryear in this iteration
drewthebrave@reddit
I hear you on the VAG double-edged sword. We upgraded to an SQ5 from the Miata when we had our first kid, and it was a glorious V6. But it quickly became too small with multiple kids, dogs, and lots of family trips. In other words, get the impractical car when you can! Lol
The Z in midnight people just feels iconic, so I totally get that. Like getting a Ferrari in red or a Laguna Seca Blue E46 M3.
Muttonboat@reddit
Life is short and people will judge you either way you go
if you can afford it and it makes you happy buy the damn car.
BustinDisco@reddit
Father waited too long to get the midlife crisis car (turned into a late life crisis car). Put about 1000 miles on it before he was too old to enjoy it.
Get the car.
amotion578@reddit (OP)
Yup, felt. When I'm financially ready to pay cash and not be flat broke afterwards "the right way" I'll probably be way too old to enjoy it and.... eh.
Fuck it. What's $1k a month for 36 months if accounts are still well into the green?
amotion578@reddit (OP)
That's the spirit!
I wager a hundred what ifs have come and gone in the last 15 years. I'd go out on a limb to suggest not fucking around then is why I can actually consider this at all.
Leaving that reliability bubble for something "off brand" for me for selfish reasons? I don't care what my circle thinks in the end, it's selling out for greedy reasons in a way. I don't need a 400hp 2dr sports car but I'm not gonna get any younger and it sure would be cool to enjoy something like that
Especially in midnight purple... Mmmm such a cool color.
OlFlirtyBastardOFB@reddit
My goal is to wrap my car in midnight purple... Now fuck off, I got work to do so I have extra money for it.
amotion578@reddit (OP)
To cover up the spray painted DICK with an arrow on the hood of your stingray, right?
My vinyl wrapper said he was proud of me once .. fuckin prick
Secure-Side-3835@reddit
King of the park right here folks.
amotion578@reddit (OP)
Just a friend of the road, bubs
fizzinator9000@reddit
Get a C7 corvette stingray with 2LT. Most of then are low miles and pampered. An amazing ride!
Range-Aggravating@reddit
Learn to separate your needs from your wants. You're allowed to want things without needing them.
Get the car.
AngelMaster333@reddit
Spends like you're considering the Nissan Z.
Nessuwu@reddit
I'd argue "damn, that sucks" is worse than "what if." But sometimes it takes one of those to recognize when you should or shouldn't cave into that urge in the future.
XtraChrisP@reddit
F people, outside of those you genuinely care about.
Old_Goat_Ninja@reddit
My wife says my Mustang was my midlife crisis car. I don’t think so, but maybe she’s right. Was it a smart thing to do? Probably not, but I absolutely enjoyed it (don’t have it anymore). I don’t really regret it. Financially it wasn’t the smartest thing to do, but it sure was fun.
iMod121@reddit
I bought mine at 35 and couldn't be happier. I told my girlfriend the other day if I wouldve waited for my 50s and 60s I would have hated the car and got rid of it by now. Sports cars are small and very low with almost no space. Definitely not built to be comfortable.
WildcatWhiz@reddit
Life is too short to drive boring cars.
dakota137@reddit
Go for it dude. Fun car. I got a sports car about the same time that I always wanted.. just couldn't afford it before. Zero regrets
Maddad_666@reddit
No. Buy it.
fhhhvfffyjjnv@reddit
I'm 46. Have a 69 mustang I bought for 7500 14 years ago. Put about 20k into mods. Only regret is having zero time to enjoy it.
bigboss1999x@reddit
Get the midnight purple 6 speed z and put paint protection film. I saw it at la auto show 2025 and it’s incredible. Absolutely stunning. There’s a few videos on YouTube filmed by amateurs to give an accurate idea of what it looked like. Buy a car that makes you wake up early just for driving.
NuclearHateLizard@reddit
I've only ever owned ridiculous sports cars. It's the only reason I chose to be a mechanic as my career. So I could justify it. As I'm slowly approaching "middle age" (what even is that these days?) anyways I'm early 30s, wondering what my midlife crisis is gonna look like. Will I go full balls to the wall and get a tank or airplane or something? 🤣🤣 Or will I go the complete opposite direction and get a corolla or minivan
Jimmy_The_Chin@reddit
I have never regretted any car choices that were made to bring happiness over common sense. But i have almost always also had a more practical car at the same time so I was never inconvenienced by the fun car when i didn’t want to be. That feels like the trick for me.
michoriso@reddit
I’m on my 3rd midlife crisis car, just do it, life is short.
confident-dilf@reddit
Never
wratx@reddit
I'm 50 and love my tuned WRX....it's not a beast of a car but it's fun as shit to drive, I am gonna live my life, I am not hurting anyone
OddPick84@reddit
You go get it sir!
I sure do enjoy my 40th bday gift to myself in 22 dodge challenger rt with shaker
not1or2@reddit
Controversial I know but when I see someone in a truck I think they’re either a tradesman or out of the village people.
IOI-65536@reddit
Late 30s is a mid-life crisis? That makes me feel really old. If you can afford it and want to, why not? Obviously the other side of that is if you can't afford it, that's why not.
I returned to my two seater convertible basically the moment my kids were all driving and I didn't need four seats. But I've missed having a two seater convertible since I had kids and needed to be more practical.
amotion578@reddit (OP)
Depends on what your purview of life expectancy to know where the mid point is
"I could keel over tomorrow and find out my 'mid life' was 18" etc
Air quotes surrounding the phrase was intentional. I wouldn't know what else to call the phenomenon!
MuscleCommercial292@reddit
I bought an ND miata last year. It is a completely unnecessary expense, and I have never purchased something so non-useful, as I already have a relatively new excellent vehicle that I am keeping. I don't regret it for a second. The amount of joy I get from just commuting in that thing is worth it. I would not change anything. Currently looking at coilovers, wheels, and maybe a supercharger down the line.
Ahnatos@reddit
I don't regret getting a C7 Vette a couple years back. I still have it and enjoy it but the only reason I have been considering giving it up is to go back and only have one car to worry about since the Vette is basically the weekend car I have fun with. It would make way more sense, even being able to afford both with no issues, to have one.
I am looking at replacing both my cars with something that would be kinda between my daily electric Ioniq 5 and the Vette with getting an Ioniq 5N.
foofooca@reddit
See I plan on buying a C7 in 2 years, but I have a Stinger. Only reason I’d keep the stinger is if I need to haul around my son. It’d be nice to just have the vette ha but stinger is paid off and I still love that car.
Ahnatos@reddit
I like the Stinger, they look good I kinda considered one right around the time they came out but ended up getting the Ioniq 5 instead and now I would only consider electric.
foofooca@reddit
Really?? I need to look into electric. I work remote, so honestly electric makes sense because I never drive lol
Ahnatos@reddit
Might make sense for you then. I got one because even though my work is 40 miles round trip, I have free charging at work. I have a garage at home with a level 2 charger, but almost never use it. Even if I didn't have free charging it would still be better in my case to charge at home. No need to go to a gas station, no need to get a smog check (for where I live), no need for oil changes. I only take the car in for tire-rotations and software updates in the 4 years I've had it.
buckGR@reddit
I regret NOT having bought one (yet).
SnuffleupagusRex@reddit
Dad (very straight and narrow conventional Corolla/Accord guy) got a Boxster at 50. I genuinely think it let him continue working without going insane, because it let him look forward to the drive in and decompress on the ride home. He had to fight the constant voice in his head that said "impractical" and "selfish", but it was 100% worth it.
As a single guy with reasonable financial prospects, I would not hesitate. It sounds like the TDI is doing nothing that couldn't be split between the GTR and the truck.
Send it.
Soft_Stretch1539@reddit
Imagine this....you're lying on your death bed and you've lived a long and productive life.
Do you regret NOT buying this car?
If you can say yes...buy the car.
Ok-Possession-3771@reddit
Do it
Vizuboy@reddit
Almost every doctor I have talked to said yes; they told me “just buy a Camry”
CutTurbulent3015@reddit
Well, I was in my early 40s when I decided to buy a Mazda rx8. Sometimes it's just the fun that counts. I don't regret it one bit , it's too fun to drive.
According-Fan5406@reddit
People say money is for quality of life. What is quality of life if not smiling every time you leave your house?
Bug_406@reddit
Get it done. I've found myself looking at alot of fast and shiny things lately as well. I'll find just the one I want sooner or later, and I know I'll have no regrets about it.
BorntoBomb@reddit
Ive driven 400+hp vehicles the entire time Ive been over 40. Its just normal to me.
Your crisis, my daily.
SailingSpark@reddit
30 is midlife? Ok, now I feel old.
El_mochilero@reddit
If you can do it, do it.
I have always dreamed of owning a fun car.y wife convinced me to pass on a sports car in my 30’s and regretted it since.
Now I’m 40, making good money, and two weeks ago bought a Corvette. It fucken rips and I love it.
foofooca@reddit
Congrats! Hopefully joining you in 2 years with a C7.
El_mochilero@reddit
I hope you do. It’s an absolute blast!
Effyew4t5@reddit
I already had a fairly fast car (Saab 900 Turbo) so I bought motorcycles. Now that I’m 72, I have a fast SUV (BMW X3 M50), Z4 M40i, a couple more motorcycles and a supercharged Jet Ski. Why go slow?
ez90six@reddit
Given that you work from home, have other vehicles, and this isn’t a daily, reliability isn’t a major concern. You also want to mod the car. Why spend >$43k on a new Nissan. There are a plethora of fast fun cars you can pick up used and then upgrade and work on till your hearts content. Old bmw, corvette, etc, etc.
krazul88@reddit
I did it early. I'm not gonna say what car, but it was a beautiful little NA sedan into which I swapped bigger, lighter, prettier wheels (with sticky tires), cold air intake, cat-back exhaust, stiffened + lowered suspension, and a few other little mods to maximize my driving pleasure. I looked forward to driving it every day, and I miss it. Get the car and have fun with it. Make it look and sound and feel whatever way puts a smile on your face.
radmd74@reddit
Here for it
Gl3g@reddit
I guess my midlife crisis started when I was 22 years old with a ‘77 Toyota Celica GT, then Gen 1 MR2, then 91 MR2 turbo, then Audi TT roadster, then Mazda Speed Miata, then C8 Corvette.
Boosted_Vet@reddit
I mean I have my reliable FJ cruiser. Toyota MR2 turbo project, a 70s vintage jet boat and an 80s 1st Gen ram dually with a cummins.
Try looking at a Miata. It's not "FAST" exactly but it's cheap, reliable. Easy to fix. Easy to get into autocross. And the most fun you can have in a car regardless of the speed. You can flog on them and not break the speed limit go hit a nice curvey road or mountain pass drop the top and just enjoy.
Critical-Hospital-40@reddit
when i turned 40 i bought a Subaru BRZ. it's been an amazing 10 years. i've taken it on road trips. it's been a great daily driver, capable of hauling pets and groceries. fun to drive any where for any length of time.
JohnJohnTurboTron@reddit
At 51 I drive a GR Corolla Circuit Edition and hot hatches are just what I prefer to drive.
runerx@reddit
Nope. Didn't buy someone elses idea of a good car. Bought a decent car relatively cheap and built it into exactly what I wanted over the last 12 years.
ComputingGuitarist@reddit
I bought 2 midlife crisis cars and do not regret either purchase!
Necessary-Spinach164@reddit
Another Z buyer. I would ask yourself what you want in the Z first. If you just like the looks of it, and don't really know or care about anything else, then yeah have fun. I bought my Z and decided to start tracking it. Turns out, it's kinda pricey to track relative to a 200HP shitbox. Move weight + more power = more expense into brakes. Just a word of warning if you want to track it, and this is my only regret with the car. Aside from this, it's been fine.
LCLdreamer@reddit
I bought an STi last year and I’m 37. Fuck it. Buy it. Mod it and make it yours. You can’t spend that cash when you’re dead.
Much-Resolution-5476@reddit
Initially - I felt buyers remorse, guilt, how could I be so irresponsible, investing the money would be better. But after time and having loved cars my whole life, the enjoyment I got out of it made it all worthwhile and I don’t regret it.
Dc81FR@reddit
Get a classic they don’t depreciate…. I have a 1969 Dodge Charger and honestly turns heads and gets more attention than most exotics. Also you never see them on the road,when i first got a c8 vette it was cool because nobody had them now they are everywhere
amotion578@reddit (OP)
The old timer in my garage now is a 1960s Mercedes fintail
Yup, I've known that for the last decade. Can't drive it anywhere without getting thumbs up, comments at stop lights, or someone wanting to talk to me about it in a parking lot. The younger generations have never seen one, or seen one driving before. The older generations haven't seen one driving since the 80s when their dad or uncle had one.
Now whether or not I part ways with the old timer for space considerations... Another story. Ideally I keep this and then add a Z on top of it, but I wanna garage both and, that'll take some time to be able to do that. Maybe later this year.
Any_Web_1784@reddit
Regret, you have one lifetime to experience whatever you can. If you have the means and want to, do it. Is it a sound financial decision, prob not. Will it monetarily matter in your life, also prob not. Do it and dont worry about regrets, youll only regret what you didnt get a chance to try
KarmaPolice6@reddit
I bought a c8 last year and an Aston Martin Vantage recently. They both bring me immense joy.
f700es@reddit
AS Vantage, nice!!!! That's my retirement plan car.
KarmaPolice6@reddit
I think that they are the most beautiful cars on the road.
f700es@reddit
I'll be looking for a '16 V8V when I am ready. The updated "waterfall" center console is just so beautiful. Although a '19 Vantage might be less when I am ready.
Yes, one of the best looking cars ever made.
musing_codger@reddit
Many years ago, I bought a Caterham. Insane car. Probably the least safe and practical thing you can drive. But it was so much fun.
After 5 years, I sold it. Got back what I paid for it, minus sorting and maintenance costs, so it wasn't a huge financial mistake. I needed room in my garage for another project (mid-life crisis airplane build).
But from the moment I sold it, I regretted doing so. I hadn't been driving it all that much, so I thought I wouldn't miss it. But I did. I missed owning it. I missed being the insane kind of idiot that owned one. I missed it on gorgeous days.
Finally, when the plane project moved to a hangar, I bought another one. I'm happy again. I still don't drive it much, but I love having it. Don't regret it at all.
That said, I could afford it. I paid cash for both cars. If I were going deeper in debt, I'd seriously rethink my priorities and how I was treating my future self. I'm not saying I absolutely wouldn't do it, but having to borrow money for a toy would give me a reason to pause and seriously evaluate whether it made sense.
Nessuwu@reddit
I would wait until you could comfortably buy that car in cash, this is how people put themselves into financial pitfalls. Or get that car used with more miles that is still nice.
amotion578@reddit (OP)
That is a good point.
Special paint and all, I was leaning towards "I want to be the first owner and garage it and keep it as nice as I can"
To the counterance of
"I don't drive it because omg rock chips" and etc
Correct. That is the concern. There is a leverage to it, to probably any path realistically to this car
The question is how much leverage and for that
A CPO like it, maybe damn the special color shit and just get in one... Now I'm settling... Do I really need it if I'm settling? This, too, shall pass...?
No_Rate_5211@reddit
I bought a 2020 Toyota Supra when I was in my early 40s. A few things I learned:
1) the only people impressed were men in their 20s 2) people want to race you at every red light 3) I am too old to have to squat down that low
beenywhite@reddit
Bought a C6 vette just before I turned 40. It’s awesome. Zero regrets. I drive it on weekends and a couple times a week to work.
foofooca@reddit
According to your pfp, you’re Cyrus. Get the vette!
Prudent-Hold-8944@reddit
Pay cash for it. But do it.
amotion578@reddit (OP)
Yeah I'll have to put this off another 5 years or so if I want to pay cash and not be dead ass broke
Perfect-Light-9647@reddit
I’m 50yo, have a new Atlas for everyday and a 20 GLI for a play car. I love it and do not regret buying it. I never drive it because life has been insanely busy but it’s cheap to own, operate and insure.
I can’t believe I’m saying this but after 35 years of driving manual, I no longer enjoy it. I must be old now, when my area was less developed and way more rural it was fun to whip manual cars around. But since 2020, most of NYC moved north and de instead the countryside. So now even the mountain roads are clogged with transplants cars, bicycles, joggers, etc. driving my GLI is more a pain with increased traffic.
Then-Ticket8896@reddit
Hell no! And I don’t regret just buying a 489 horsepower car last week at 77yo.
RIP_KING@reddit
No dude, no regrets. Buy it. Life is short. Money is a tool. Enjoy the things you love.
maritimer187@reddit
In your particular situation I don't see why not? Working remote is beneficial as it's a car I'd want to keep mileage off of as much as possible but still enjoy. As long as it's not a financial burden to you I say go for it. You've been working a long time and deserve to reap the benefits of years of hard work.
I'd definitely own a sports car it's just not a logical investment in my particular situation. I have a decent commute into the city everyday. I'm financially well off in my 30s as well but I'd sooner drive a reliable commuter that I don't care about as much because I'll be putting a fair bit of miles on it. I also have a old pickup just for stuff around the house and the conformance of it. I'm actually going to look at a used Jetta Highline tomorrow for a new work commuter. Not a sports car by any means but still enjoyable to sit in everyday.
Caramel_Da_Cat@reddit
I know a few ppl who bought expensive cars and they were happy at first but then it just became a car and they now have an expensive car payment.
I think if its novelty you're looking for, its best to just rent sport/luxury cars every once in awhile
LateNeedleworker6395@reddit
How much have you saved for retirement?
Altruistic-Rip4364@reddit
I currently own a wrx and dodge charger. (I’m 58). I don’t think I’ll ever look back and say “I wish I didn’t have these fun cars”
f700es@reddit
Nope! Mine was cheap but it's been one of the most reliable cars I've ever had.
'16 Mustang 3.7L. Sure it's just the V6 but with 300+ hp it plenty fun. The insurance was also cheap.
If you can afford it then do it!
Traditional_Cry_4815@reddit
I regret not buying one
drftfan@reddit
I have always had a car more or less so at 50 the car I have now doesn’t feel like a mid life car. With that said just go get it. Seriously. I look for the bargains where I can. For an example I owned a Ferrari 348 in 2012 that I bought for $37,500. They were all pretty cheap at that time. I have owned a Boxster, Porsche 914s, Audi TTs, Shelby GT350 and am on my second Lotus Evora right now. A car that has really become my favorite, hence why I have now owned 2. Practical is for the birds. It isn’t fun and it doesn’t put a smile on my face. Which explains why I am considering trading in my daily Tacoma for some sort of a car or SUV that suits my daily needs better.
Go buy your car and enjoy your life. I love the new Z and I really want to get a 27 in green myself.
Rifter0876@reddit
Sure did.
La_Peregrina@reddit
Life is short. I'm a woman of retirement age who owns three cars, each has it's purpose. I bought my mid life mildly sporty car at mid life and still own it. If you can afford it and can maintain it, buy it!
ObviousAlias7@reddit
Nope. Life is short. Buy the car
moofthedog@reddit
My dad got a challenger, and now has a Camaro
He enjoys having a pony car very much, and it makes me happy to see him enjoying life
lrherman@reddit
I bought my 2012 Mustang at 48, and while I called it my mid life crisis car there was no crisis and just bought it because I wanted it.
Buy it if you can afford it and will enjoy it.
My Mustang only has around 17K miles on it because I have other vehicles but I enjoy it now as much as I did when I got it in 2011.
Good luck!
beginnerasiancoder@reddit
Regardless of your choice, everyone wants to judge you for "cant believe you wasted your money" and "why dont you replace your current car to something fancy and not look like a broke ass". Do what you want with your money as long as it doesnt affect others and what makes you happy. I got a decent sports car as a daily and installed aftermarket parts and mods on it but everyday it gets old driving around a loud ass exhaust and burble tune so i got myself a suv that has decent power as my daily. Do i regret putting mods on my car? No, i enjoy it more driving it on the weekends and feel less guilty putting daily commuter miles on it.
Responsible-Milk-259@reddit
Bought a Porsche 911 2 months before turning 40. That was over 5 years ago. Zero regrets.
Sweetwhitecamry@reddit
If the first car is a cool car. Work on that and bring it back to it's former glory.
I have a Z06 but at times wished I found a SW20 MR2 and worked on it. I miss my old ones
YozaSkywalker@reddit
Nah, as long as you aren't putting yourself in a financial bind get the car you always wanted.
MagnetAccutron@reddit
Just do it.
My mid life crisis was a BMW M Roadster from 98. Didn’t need it, no.
Have I loved it for the past 15 years. Of course.
Now I’m on old gerzer with a bad left knee. 😝 But ain’t selling it yet.
SP4RK4RT@reddit
I was perfectly content having a couple of fun vehicles, a Jeep Wrangler (JL) and a Corvette (C5). But when my Papa passed away, it made me start the countdown to my own demise. Sure, I've got decades left on this Earth if I last as long as he did, but I'll be decrepit and won't be able to drive a one-pedal electric let alone a 6-speed manual someday.
So, for my mid-life crisis, I got a car I've had on my mind for thirty years, a Miata. I know Miata stands for "Miata Is Always The Answer", but I could never get over the low power and soap-bar styling, so it never made it to the top of my buying list, until the latest generation with the hard-top. It's a pokey car but it's usually the one I pick to drive these days. You can actually plant the pedal and go WOT on public streets through several gear changes still and not be breaking the law LOL. I've absolutely no regrets indulging myself with fun car purchases YOLO
all_g0Od@reddit
I bought a BMW z4 for like 6 grand and have loved it.
Is it a midlife crisis or the the intersection of opportunity and ability
eclipse60@reddit
I wouldn't call a Nissan Z in your mid 30s a midlife crisis car.
That being said, being remote means you dont need as practical of a car, since you aren't commuting daily.
I also work remote and bought a Jaguar FPace. I personally wanted an FType, but I couldnt justify having the F-Type as my only car since it was so small. I needed to be able to fit more things in my car. Ive owned it for almost 3 years, and have put about 14k miles on it.
shtoops@reddit
Kinda wanting a r129 s600 .. I figure a v12 will hold some value.
charge556@reddit
Im just gonna read the title and say this:.
if you can afford it (really afford it, not just make finances tight to afford it) and if you can afford it while also saving for the future (investments, emergency fund, etc) and if you dont have to delay important major financial needs (house downpayment, college fund, etc) than go for it.
Its only (IMHO) a midlife crisis mobile if you can barely afford it and cant save and still buy it. Otherwise its just a thing you want, regardless if its a motorcycle, sports car, lifesize batman statue...whatever. as long as you arent putting yourself in a hole than its fine.
kilertree@reddit
Yeah but It was because I didn't have a daily and my insurance kept going up. You can get collector car insurance.
AhBuckleThis@reddit
Op, I bought my mid life crisis car in my late 20s and restored it. I still have it 24 years later. People will judge regardless. If you buy a big truck, he must be compensating for something, a sports car compensating, loud muscle car compensating etc.
Now my old self will tell you to keep both. Drive the sports car when it’s nice out and the other car for when you need to go shopping or it’s crappy weather outside. If you don’t have a garage to store it in, make sure to look for good theft deterrents.
s4ltydog@reddit
43 here and after literal decades of wanting one I just picked up a WRX about 6 months ago and I’m in love with it. The thing is I’ve always been a car guy and since I was 14 I’ve always been a Japanese tuner guy, I’m just finally in a place where I can afford both the car and the mods I want to do to the car so I pulled the trigger. The people that are going to judge you are going to do it regardless, at the end of the day, if you are in a position to afford it of course, the only reason you should second guess yourself is if you are genuinely doing it to recapture some kind of youth. That’s only something you can decide of course but here’s the thing to remember, you get 1 life, don’t dwell on the past, or lament your youth, instead embrace life in any way you want and live the life you want to the fullest! If THATS your motivation then get the fuck to that dealer and buy that car my dude!!
whozwat@reddit
My midlife crisis sports car is a classic VW Bug convertible. Doubles as an on-theme drive-by No King's protest vehicle. beep-beep.
feedisk@reddit
No ragrets on my 991 Turbo
Carsallday@reddit
I bought a 6 spd hellcat challenger and dont regret it at all.
I'm in a similar situation as you, work full remote now and I drive the hellcat very infrequently nowadays but when I do it makes me so happy. Mainly because like you I dont really have to commute anywhere anymore I just run to the store or the next town over to visit friends/family. I have a wife and 2yro son who drive around in a volvo xc90 so im usually passenger princess with them going places.
We also have a Lexus is300, volvo v50 AWD T5, chevy express 3500 all serve a different purpose. Could our house be considered a used car lot? Maybe. But for me personally I enjoy having options and all bases covered for any type of situation. That being said i didnt get the hellcat until everything else was squared away, wife had a nice reliable car first and I saved up to buy it outright with cash.
lmaooo4566@reddit
Wow, everything is so relative.
In the motorcycle world, if your car has air-conditioning, it's good enough for a daily driver.
You are surrounded by so many boring cars that one with two doors that sits 3 inches lower is considered flashy.
In reality, the car you're talking about is just another car - which is what you want.
overcatastrophe@reddit
I bought a shitty old jeep and fixed it up. It's my daily now and I love/hate it. Perfect for someone who like things that dont work 100%
Keeps me busy.
Manyconnections@reddit
Do it.
mr2jay@reddit
I regret not buying more. I had a chance to pick up a 92 NSX and I didn't do it cause I really don't like red cars. Now all I have is regret with how much that car has gone up in value. Still pick up a JDM legend but sadly not that one.
XtraChrisP@reddit
Some will say it's not a sports car, but no. I love my RCF. I daily a GS450h which I also absolutely love.
ThatEnginerd@reddit
Mostly financial decision. Go for it if you can. Also recognize there are fun cars that are sub 10k, just gotta turn a wrench. Here's what you should have:
6-12 months expenses saved in hysa or similar liquid account (3-6 if living alone)
Housing being less that 30% pay.
Putting 15-25% of pay to retirement. (Closer to 25 if you didn't make significant contributions in early adulthood)
Not there yet? Go rent a car for a track day once or twice a year.
clearcoat_ben@reddit
I've been buying midlife crisis cars since I was 19. All these years later and I regret nothing.
justaguy845@reddit
Marty?
Inevitable-Secret736@reddit
It was a midlife El Camino SS and Motorcycle for my wife and I
And Nope, you only live once so they say
snootchiebootchie94@reddit
I bought a 911 a little before my 40th. I don’t regret it. Most sports cars hold their value well, so unless you buy new you don’t lose too much in depreciation if you resell it at some point. We all spend our money on something, why not a car? I was VERY on the fence about buying a sports car and it felt selfish, but I haven’t regretted it at all.
amotion578@reddit (OP)
Yeah, was looking new. Have zero plans to let it leave my possession, especially if I'm "closing the chapter" on the last almost two decades of car ownership being everything but a two door sports car.
I've never owned a new car in my life. I had a CPO with 32k miles in 2008, closest I've ever gotten to new.
Indeed, feels exceptionally selfish, greedy, irresponsible even. I'm fine with my plethora of shit, why would I ruin solid ground to go get a car payment for something that gets half the mpg?
😂
snootchiebootchie94@reddit
If your shit’s in order and you can afford it, go for it. We work to enjoy our lives as well as plan for the future. Life is about balance. Sounds like you are there.
Stoltzy624@reddit
I bought a GTR and don’t regret it one bit.
That being said, I paid cash for it easily without touching any investments, savings, etc.
So if your finances are in order, I say go for it.
PlasticProtection595@reddit
Just curious about the gtr, has it been reliable? Do you drive it often? I really like them and have debated it. I have looked at other brands and cars but there is something about the GTR.
BFB_2455@reddit
My GTR is my only car, but we take my wife’s 4Runner a lot of the time & I work remotely 4/5 weekdays. I used to drive it almost daily, pre-COVID. No reliability issues at all & I love every minute I get to drive it
amotion578@reddit (OP)
Yeah I'm not there for liquidity. I would... Graze... Savings for a down payment.
I'd probably need another 5 years at current course and speed to pay cash without breaking the bank.
Other than that finances are in order enough to drop 30-40% down and take a 3 year loan without flinching too bad, other than "yeah maybe not a lot of traveling this year on a whim" for a few years.
tarparp@reddit
Get after it, man! I bought a Cayman GTS in 2024 as a carrot to get me through my grueling masters program and full time job. It has been awesome so far, minimal regrets! Sometimes I regret not buying a GT4, other times I regret not buying a base 981 and beating the absolute snot out of it on track.
Silver_728@reddit
Not one bit! Life is way to short to Not enjoy life!!
I went all in on a car and went way overboard on a stupid high end build with gobs of power. Totally worth every penny.
Impressive-Future279@reddit
I was in a similar situation and pulled the trigger on a Vette. I would do it again and have no regrets. As long as you can pay all your bills and still have money to save/invest, I’d go for it. Life’s short, enjoy it while you can.
howie2092@reddit
I bought a C5 when I was 48. Paid cash, did a bunch of maintenance and upgrades, kept it for 8 years now. I love it.
Sure I could use the money since I have 2 kids in college, but it's paid for and cheap to insure. It makes me happy. My friends and family had a lot of laughs over my 'mid-life crisis' but that doesn't matter at all.
amotion578@reddit (OP)
I'll have to reevaluate flow by adding let's say $1100 to month end for three years.
Without looking I think I'm solid, I didn't let salary increases change my spending habits for almost a decade, this would be the ice breaker.
Glad you thought that way! Feels crazy but not at all.
No_Tower_7026@reddit
TLDR
YOLO
RWD-by-the-Sea@reddit
If you can afford it and not negatively impact other areas of your life, then go for it.
I've always been a car guy, but pretty responsible, and believed in delayed gratification.
Then COVID happened. No longer needed to commute. Finances significantly improved. All responsibilities addressed and taken care of. Realized if I didn't start enjoying things now there might not be enough tomorrow to enjoy it when I decided to indulge.
So, bought the M2. And the RS3. And the RS6.
Added some bikes, boards, and trucks along the way.
I'm glad I did. Could I have earned 15%+ if I had kept that money invested? Sure. But again, I've got enough. My family has enough. We're having fun. No regrets.
quiksi@reddit
If you can afford it, why the heck not? I’ve always had fun cars and that’s not going to change until I can’t drive anymore.
FiieldDay-114@reddit
Do it. After a year you find yourself not really using it. Sell it. Just keep it as nice as possible to help re-sale.
WallStreetAnus@reddit
After buying my first one I thought that everyone should own a sports car at least one time. But if it’s a daily driver you kind of get used to it after a while and it just becomes normal driving again.
DependentAd235@reddit
Remote? Buy it. If you end up married etc. Deal with life as it happens.
If you need to go camping or travel long distance… rent an SUV.
amotion578@reddit (OP)
That's why I have a full size truck and will keep it until the end 😉
musicpeoplehate@reddit
Not at all. It's a toy. You can either afford a toy or you can't. I wouldn't want it for my only car, though.
amotion578@reddit (OP)
It wouldn't be. The truck will not leave my possession.
Whether or not I get rid of the old timer is really the big question, I would love the garage bay but also it's just too cool to give up.
The other two are redundant as hell with this Z in the driveway
WolframBeta2112@reddit
Nope. I worked my ass off to be able to afford both of my Mustangs. I don’t drive them as often as I’d like to but when I’m doing 95 in an 80 with an AC/DC record blasting I feel like a fuckin badass. And right now that’s kinda the best part of my life.
cyclops4389@reddit
I would buy the Z if I were you. It will be fun and it sounds like you have the money. Life’s short and the world is only getting worse. Might as well have a fun car!
I had a few cars that I didn’t drive and needed work. Got rid of everything and bought one nice used mustang. Now I have a Frontier for a daily and the mustang for fun. It’s just the best thing to have a fun car that’s also reliable and have no problem taking anywhere.
amotion578@reddit (OP)
That is my TDI now. It needs things being 23 years old, still, but it's dead nuts reliable, isn't 400hp but will scoot and lay a smoke screen whenever I apply skinny pedal to the floor.
I mean I have the money with taking a loan and not really flinching about it too bad, especially if it's three years and done.
Appreciate the words. Seems the sentiment is universal
zylpher@reddit
I bought my SRT8 Challenger right before I turned 40. Not a single regret. Wanted one of those since the first time I drove one in like 2013 when I was pretending to be a car mechanic.
It sucks in the snow, rain is interesting, and it get shit for fuel mileage. But I smile every time I start it up.
amotion578@reddit (OP)
Why I have a truck for truck stuff, like snow 😂
Yeah for how little I drive now I have ultimately stopped caring about fuel economy, where just 7 years ago I was intently focused on it because it was a small game to having more spending money
Once upon a time I was a dealership lot porter and got to toodle around in like a C5 Vette, S2000, even a Challenger (SXE lmao)
Visibility differences aside (holy fuck that challenger has some fucking blindspots) thought to myself "I see why people dink around with these 'highly impractical' cars"
zylpher@reddit
I got no hate for my 6 cylinder brethren. And yeah, the Challenger has some blond spots. But you just learn to live with them and be more attentive. Will say, the newer Camaros are worse when it comes to blind spots. Haven't driven a modern Mustang to have an opinion on them.
YeahIGotNuthin@reddit
What about “fast + reliable + fun + not that expensive “?
It’s not at all an impractical car. It’s reliable, rewarding, comfortable enough to use as a primary car (even if you “improve” it some) and it will carry somewhere between “exactly as many people as you need it to” and “twice as many people as you need it to” most days.
And how many snappy manual two-seat sports / GT cars are even out there anymore? How many at this price point?
If you don’t do it now, and you never get a chance at anything like that again, you’ll regret passing on the chance.
EVE_Burner_Account@reddit
Life is too short for boring cars. Buy the Z car. Keep it forever. My dad still talks about his Datsun 240z that he owned back in the day. If one ever get the chance, I'm buying one and restoring it for him.
amotion578@reddit (OP)
Scoring a one owner turbodiesel full size truck in early 2021 for half the window sticker of trucks on a lot with 8 owners... Yeah I'll be keeping this forever.
A Z car in a pretty color, bought new, kept forever? Right up my alley.
Have always appreciated the (early) Z cars, I think Z32 to Z33 was regression especially with the culture that was attributed to many.
A rare W from Nissan to keep some design cues from the 240 era. So far that I've read they don't appear to be massive piles of shit, because ZR engine codes but with twin turbos and parts bin interchangeability-- things I can get behind
MusicMan7969@reddit
I was in a different situation as I purchased my “mid-life” car in my fifties after becoming an empty nester. I paid cash and as someone said above, my 401K is well funded and it didn’t affect my other bills/obligations. I drove sensible cars and now that I can afford the fun stuff, I have a Vette and a CT5.
amotion578@reddit (OP)
Basically what I'm going through, 15-20 years early, without kids
But also without "paid cash" as the gotcha that... Maybe in 5 years I could pay cash, y'know about the time they discontinue the Z and the second hand market explodes in value, etc
Ok-Ad8998@reddit
As a car guy, I can't honor that concept. My cars have always been kinda out there. Closest to a regret car was a BMW convertible that I bought on a whim, then spent too much money on it before it died. That's where I learned the rule: "There is no such thing as a cheap BMW". But I've had other cars that fit the category and most of those worked out.
Intelligent_Set_2729@reddit
No but I also have no car payment across two cars and can easily afford maintenance, insurance, and things that break on them. It really just comes down to finances and if you have them in order I say go for it. But don’t go getting a 911 if you make $100k a year and have to finance 80% of it.
amotion578@reddit (OP)
Indeed. It would be cool to put 50% down but that's a big hit that's just a bit more than I want to put down.
Or buy cash outright would be cooler, without breaking the bank, but alas how old will I be when that happens and "yeah dummy you could have afforded this sooner, stop overthinking it"
Temporary-Chest-3111@reddit
If you are keeping four cars while being single, then honestly consolidating them into a dailyable sports car does not seem illogical at all. I’d avoid getting someone’a clapped out project car though because it might be a bunch of headache to deal with, although unfortunately a lot of the Z’s tend to be that way.
Normal-Guy196@reddit
Bought a Shelby GT500 what a blast to drive the only thing I regret is. It buying a GT350. I have driven two different GT350’s and they are way more fun to drive
BristleConeRanch@reddit
I tell everybody the GT 350 for me is at the top of the list if they want to experience a car that does nothing great but it’s well balanced for doing a lot of things very well and fun.
BristleConeRanch@reddit
I am a very cheap budget minded person having a father that grew up in the depression and was in World War II for 20 years through two Korea. Very common sense pragmatic upbringing. So I bought a Miata. But Family said it was too small and they pretty much forced me to buy a bigger car. I’d be happy for the most part with a minivan. I’ve driven everything across the spectrum. Probably priciest thing was Aventador S. But also Ferrari and Lamborghini’s. In one way I wish I was still pragmatic and kept my money and drove a 20 year-old minivan. But it does put a smile on my face every time I’m out in it. But all the money I save never having a babysitter never ordering food delivered never having cable TV. I have my 1981 high school winter coat and S&H and green stamps stepstool. All those cost cutting measures help afford an expensive car. Plus being given months to live from a cancer diagnosis made me not as concerned about the expense.
Rage_est_1969@reddit
I bought a S2000 a few years back. Love it. Look for car meets in your area, so much fun. Live my friend, live.
zedshadows@reddit
I bought my 2024 nismo z because it makes me HAPPY
I dont care what anyone else thinks
And the joy I get driving it is worth it. Soo much fun 😁
pizzaanarchy@reddit
I am a car guy through and through, always have been. I remember in about 1968, walking by a new 'Vette and telling my friend that it was a shame they would be gone when we were old enough to have one.
I have an entire bookshelf of car books, including standard catalogs of all American makes and the big foreign ones. So many models and diecast that most are boxed away. I have owned a lot of cool cars, although never a true sports car, unless you consider a 1955 t bird, a '66 t-bird and a '69 vette a sports car.
Now that I am middle aged (well, kind of), I can afford pretty much what I want, but the reality is I do not want a sports car anymore. I looked at new Vettes, GR86, Supra, various others, all were nice and sporty, but I would have just killed myself and probably someone else, so I went with my other car passion: trailing. Not hardcore rockcrawling, although it will goat up a hill you would not think it could.
I bought exactly the Bronco I wanted, spent a year upgrading it for what I do and smile every time I get in it (everyday-35,000 miles in less than a year).
TL:DR Buy it if you can afford it, as soon as you can afford it.
EventHorizonHotel@reddit
No. In fact I ended up with two of them.
ShazzyANG@reddit
Bought my F Type at 31. Life's too short to not enjoy a fun car if thats your thing. You may not be in the health to fully enjoy it the longer you wait. Life comes at you unexpectedly and if your able to afford it without hurting your living situation. Go for it. Earlier you do the more fun to be had.
My_friends_are_toys@reddit
I hate the midlife crisis narrative. Yeah, I bought an impractical sports sedan because my kids are out of school and working and I have a stable job and a bit of extra money. Why shouldn't I buy a car that is fun for me after buying sensible, family cars?
kmanrsss@reddit
Regret it? Nope. I traded my 07 street glide for a brand new ‘13 Camaro SS convertible and haven’t regretted a second of it. Was able to out the family in it and actually use it much more the the bike. I’ve got 25k on it now and have done a ton of upgrades and it’s still fun to cruise it with other down.
FC3MugenSi@reddit
I bought the new Civic Type R and love it. The interior is so nice and they take mods super well.
Outside-Rain-7410@reddit
Go have fun my friend! Sounds like your finances are in order and you are still young enough to enjoy a sports car. I’m in the same age range as you and bought my ‘mid-life crisis’ car last year, my dream NSX. I saved the cash separately so it didn’t affect my finances (I have kids, a wife, mortgages etc. to consider, some that you don’t have to worry about and I found a way).
Even though we have long winters where I am, I smile every time I see it in the garage. And nothing beats driving your dream car on a Sunday morning or evening after work. Pure bliss.
As others have said, life is too short to drive boring cars. Pull the trigger, you won’t regret it!
deak_starrkiller@reddit
Third life crisis my man, get the Z 😎
jus_allen@reddit
Bought a mustang gt at 43, thinking about trading it in for a durango srt since I got a 9 month old now.
I dont believe in midlife crisis, if theres something I want and can afford it. Im buying it.
GetawayDriving@reddit
I had my crisis at 1/4 life, I just bought my sports car at midlife because that’s when I had the budget.
ComprehensiveEast376@reddit
I saw that worded differently - “these are toys that you couldn’t afford before now”. Go have fun
PutPuzzleheaded5337@reddit
Have fun my dude. Life is short. I’m 58 now but never had the “midlife crisis”. I’ve always loved sports cars and Italian sportbikes. Just do it dude and have no regrets! My last cars were a Ferrari F355 Spyder and after that a “batshit” crazy AMG Mercedes. For the record, I’m not wealthy but I still crave acceleration.