What car should I buy?
Posted by The1stGladiator@reddit | askcarguys | View on Reddit | 7 comments
I’m a 16-year-old in Florida with $10k for my first car later this fall, and I’m stuck between two groups. A midsize/full-size V6 automatic or a compact I4 manual. NO SUV. It has to have a power moonroof and enough power to merge fast enough onto i-95 without being dangerous or feeling blown around. I’m looking at full sizes like the Taurus, Acura TL, and other stuff like them. But I’m drawn to the engagement of manual cars like the Jetta GLI, Mazda3, etc. Should I prioritize the power and comfort of a V6 cruiser or should I go for the engagement of a manual?
not-a-toad@reddit
Any more modern hot hatch would be a good mix of what youre looking for in terms of practicality+fun to drive. Just off the top of my head id recommend like a mazdaspeed 3 or something if youre really into having fun and fixing a car yourself. But it all boils down to what YOU need out of the car. What do u think of the older 1st gen brz/frs/86s? Theyre getting down into your price range.
The1stGladiator@reddit (OP)
I looked at a few online, and I like them. But I don’t want to be the average high school sports car kid. I like the BRZ the most, and yeah they’re all Subarus, but something about the BRZ is just better. I’m 6’2” and I kinda remember sitting in an 86 a few weeks ago and thinking everything was super vertical. Then I thought if I was gonna get something small like those, I should just get a Miata? I don’t know.
not-a-toad@reddit
I was in the exact same boat as you. The reputation was the only thing stopping me. I ended up caving and buying a brz when one came up used at a dealership nearby at a price i couldnt refuse.
And yeah i also think that the brz is the best one. Imo the prefacelift brz with the foglights is the best looking front end out of all of the first gens but i may be biased.
FutureAfternoon1944@reddit
Since you're clearly into cars that have a "vibe," keep the Lynk & Co 03 sedan on your radar for when you graduate.
135is@reddit
E82 128i. Or E90 or e92 328i manual. You could get a very clean example and still have money left over. The n52 is a very reliable motor
It’s not super fast but it’s got enough power to have fun with. They handle great and are a great daily
The1stGladiator@reddit (OP)
2008 E92
I found this. I love it a lot but I’m worried it won’t be there in a few months
dcabe1210@reddit
Go for the manual. It'll be way more fun even with less power. Also its cuts down on people asking to borrow your car