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sworthy · May 5, 2003, 02:08 PM

My SO is looking to buy a new car. Our price range is definitely limited (and something closer to 15k might be better). Just wondering if anyone had any good suggestions. Or do you think we should get a used car, say a 2000?

Please help me out

DesignerTerp · May 5, 2003, 02:12 PM

Originally posted by sworthy:
My SO is looking to buy a new car. Our price range is definitely limited (and something closer to 15k might be better). Just wondering if anyone had any good suggestions. Or do you think we should get a used car, say a 2000?

Please help me out

Do you have an preferences? auto/manual? coupe/sedan? import/domestic? What do you currently own now?

imaxxedout69 · May 5, 2003, 02:13 PM

http://www.sportcompactcarweb.com/ro.../012scc_dodge/

Enjoy.

engage1000 · May 5, 2003, 02:16 PM

Go for a used 98 or 99 Audi A4 with manual. Should be able to get one with low miles (like 50 to 90) for a reasonable price.

sworthy · May 5, 2003, 02:16 PM

definitely automatic, I have a SUV so she's just looking for a smallish car (4 doors though). Don't really care where it's made, but no rice rockets

DesignerTerp · May 5, 2003, 02:22 PM

Originally posted by sworthy:
definitely automatic, I have a SUV so she's just looking for a smallish car (4 doors though). Don't really care where it's made, but no rice rockets

Ha ha ha..ok!
Well there is a $3000 rebate on Chevy's, the Cavalier would definitely be in that price range. Honda's are good, reliable and last freaking forever! Kia's are another relatively inexpensive car, the Spectra and the Optima are pretty sharp. Grand Am's too--nice size car, last a while.
Hmm if I had to buy a car, I would probably get a Civic or a VW. But I'm more of a Jeep Girl

designbc · May 5, 2003, 02:26 PM

My wife got a Jetta. She is in love with it. The base model comes with a lot of features.

CaseCom · May 5, 2003, 02:33 PM

If she just wants a solid basic sedan:

New: VW Jetta GL, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda Protege.

Used: Jetta GLS, or maybe a 4-cyl. Honda Accord or a Civic EX.

capuchin · May 5, 2003, 02:35 PM

Mini Cooper.

CVT model w/a few extras - $18,750

Yeah, I know, but if ca$h is going to push his vehicle of choice, I'm bound to push mine...

Kitschy · May 5, 2003, 02:42 PM

The Hyundai Elantra GT is one sweet car. It looks like a Saab and is completely loaded, leather and all. The best part is that it's just around $15,000 brand new with a 10 year/100,000 mile warranty. Can't beat that.

The Hyundai Sonata looks Jaguar-like and is also loaded for about $17-18K. Same warranty as above.

Watch out for Hyundai.

Unfortunately, I don't own either on of those. I got a cheaper used car ('01 Olds Alero). But I test drove an Elantra and really liked it.

maxintosh · May 5, 2003, 03:12 PM

Originally posted by Kitschy:
It looks like a Saab and is completely loaded, leather and all.

...

The Hyundai Sonata looks Jaguar-like...

Exactly. Hyundai, like Kia before it, buys another automaker's car and tries to copy it. It's like buying a Rolex for $10 on Central West. When will Hyundai find their own style?

Cars under $20K:
- 99-00 Audi A4 (HOT car)
- Mini Cooper
- VW Jetta/Golf (if you prefer)
- Used VW Passat GLS
- Honda Civic/used Accord

zigzag · May 5, 2003, 03:27 PM

Originally posted by Kitschy:
The Hyundai Elantra GT is one sweet car. It looks like a Saab and is completely loaded, leather and all. The best part is that it's just around $15,000 brand new with a 10 year/100,000 mile warranty. Can't beat that.

Yeah, I've seen a few of those - a very sharp-looking car considering the price (I thought they had discontinued that model, but apparently not). Never been in one but the warranty is also hard to beat.

Among small cars, I'm still partial to the Golf. I think it's the best-looking of them all, including the Jetta, but it's often overlooked.

The Mick · May 5, 2003, 03:38 PM

I have a 2003 Toyota Corolla. It is an exceptional small car IMHO. Good room for 4 adults, 40mpg on the highway (with a stick) and lots of power for such a small engine. It runs about $15K with an automatic.

RGB · May 5, 2003, 04:01 PM

Originally posted by Kitschy:
The Hyundai Elantra GT is one sweet car. It looks like a Saab and is completely loaded, leather and all. The best part is that it's just around $15,000 brand new with a 10 year/100,000 mile warranty. Can't beat that.

Watch out for Hyundai.

I own a 2002 Elantra GT fully loaded. With rebates and all it cost me under 14k. That's with leather, ABS, sunroof, cruise control, etc. Handles great! The Cavalier is the fastest car in this range, but the current interior is bland and old GM style. The Elantra GT makes you feel like you're sitting in a car twice what it costs. That's why I chose the Elantra over the Cavalier. I couldn't be happier with my choice.

imaxxedout69 · May 5, 2003, 04:02 PM

I like both of those hyundais.

Anyway, AVOID VWs and AUDIS. They are unreliable cars, and cost quite a bit to get fixed.

- Ca$h

imaxxedout69 · May 5, 2003, 04:04 PM

Fun car suggestions, that are still reliable and have 4 doors, power windows, locks, etc.

#1 The Ford Contour SVT. Kickass car. Drives like a BMW, has Recaro leather seats, dependable, 200hp, incredible suspension, looks, tons of luxury options (power seats, sunroof, power mirrors, power locks, windows, keyless entry, and more.

Here are some reviews: (as you can see, nothing but praise)

http://cartalk.cars.com/Info/Testdri...-svt-1998.html

http://www.edmunds.com/reviews/roadt...5/article.html

http://www.theautochannel.com/conten...o09019703.html

Here's a link to help you find one:
http://www.candsnet.com/Ford_Car/Ford_Contour_SVT.htm

I STRONGLY urge you to test drive one of these before purchasing that stratus... the contour is the same size, equally reliable, and a lot more fun. There's even a Contour SVT club you can join at www.contour.org.

Anyway, this is the car I'd get if I had 8 grand and wanted a 4 door. ITS AWESOME. The shifter is SOOO NICE!!!! ACK! I'm getting excited.
Comments

1998 FORD Contour SVT * 2 Photos! * * This four door vehicle features Power Steering, Power Brakes, Power Door Locks, Power Windows, Power Driver's Seat, AM/FM Stereo Radio, Trip Odometer, Tachometer, Air Conditioning, Tilt Steering Wheel, and Cruise Control.

_Options Installed

Power Steering; Power Brakes; Power Door Locks; Power Windows; Alloy Wheels; Clock; Trip Odometer; Tachometer; Tilt Steering Wheel; Interval Wipers; Rear Defroster; Remote Trunk Lid; Driver Side Airbag; Console; Vanity Mirror; Day-Night Lever; Dual Sport Mirrors; Front Bucket Seats; Reclining Seats; Accent Stripes; Body Side Moldings; Power Drivers Seat; Sport Steering Wheel; Courtesy Lights; Leather Upholstery; Keyless Entry; CD Player; Anti-Lock Breaking System; Passenger Side Airbag; AM-FM Stereo Radio; Privacy Glass;

- Ca$h

jagga · May 5, 2003, 04:14 PM

how about a mitsubishi galant? I am getting a 2002 for about $12k with about 15k miles on it. I think that is a pretty sweet deal. I think the new ones can be had for $15k with factory rebates and stuff. Give it a look see

dampeoples · May 5, 2003, 05:04 PM

A Chevy Blazer, stripped down, are pretty cheap, or a nicely equipped one used. Decent room, strong motor, or get a truck, like an S10 or a Ranger or something, ah hell, everyone has a different opinion, put your SO in a few rigs and let them decide.

Oneota · May 5, 2003, 06:52 PM

My brother just got a 2000 Chevy Monte Carlo with every option available except Sunroof and Leather seats for $14K.

And I mean every option. This thing is decked-out. Very nice car.

Kenneth · May 5, 2003, 08:19 PM

Originally posted by jagga:
how about a mitsubishi galant? I am getting a 2002 for about $12k with about 15k miles on it. I think that is a pretty sweet deal. I think the new ones can be had for $15k with factory rebates and stuff. Give it a look see

The Galant is sweet... I drove the 2003 model once..Oh wait.. the 2004 completely re-design Galant is coming.

imaxxedout69 · May 5, 2003, 08:22 PM

Originally posted by Oneota:
My brother just got a 2000 Chevy Monte Carlo with every option available except Sunroof and Leather seats for $14K.

And I mean every option. This thing is decked-out. Very nice car.

Very UGLY car.

I could go into why I think it's one of the ugliest cars made if you'd like.

- Ca$h

PS: IT's more than ugly, it pisses me off when I see one.

G4ME · May 5, 2003, 08:30 PM

says the man with the SVX

personally i think you should look at used cars more then somthing new. mainly for the depreciation value of the car, what is somthing like 2 grand for just driving it off the lot. Also you will then notice every little scractch ding and dent on the car, but if it already has a few then meah less to worry about.

just my thoughts

imaxxedout69 · May 5, 2003, 08:34 PM

Originally posted by G4ME:
says the man with the SVX

Damn straight. Ital design baby.

- Ca$h

thunderous_funker · May 5, 2003, 08:42 PM

Edmunds.com picked the Hyundai Elantra as "best sedan under $15K" 2 years in a row now.

Honorable mentions on their list goes to Ford Focus ZX3, Mazda Protege and Nissan Sentra.

Personally, I would never buy a Chrylser. They have, by far, the most cars on Consumer Reports "do not buy" list year after year.

maxintosh · May 5, 2003, 08:42 PM

Originally posted by imaxxedout69:
Very UGLY car.

I could go into why I think it's one of the ugliest cars made if you'd like.

- Ca$h

PS: IT's more than ugly, it pisses me off when I see one.

OMG I actually have to agree, that thing is HIDEOUS!!

maxintosh · May 5, 2003, 08:44 PM

Originally posted by thunderous_funker:
Edmunds.com picked the Hyundai Elantra as "best sedan under $15K" 2 years in a row now.

Honorable mentions on their list goes to Ford Focus ZX3, Mazda Protege and Nissan Sentra.

Personally, I would never buy a Chrylser. They have, by far, the most cars on Consumer Reports "do not buy" list year after year.

The Focus has been recalled more than 10 times. !!! Not even for one part... suspension, airbags, seats, everything... And yes, that's pretty much a world record.

mindwaves · May 5, 2003, 08:48 PM

Chrylser PT Cruiser

imaxxedout69 · May 5, 2003, 08:48 PM

I don't see anything wrong with recalls. What's worse is when they DONT do recalls, like VW did with the window regulators and the something on the 1.8T engine (fuel pump?).

Recalls= good because the marque is fixing stuff for free.

No recalls= bad.

- Ca$h

maxintosh · May 5, 2003, 09:43 PM

Originally posted by imaxxedout69:
I don't see anything wrong with recalls. What's worse is when they DONT do recalls, like VW did with the window regulators and the something on the 1.8T engine (fuel pump?).

Recalls= good because the marque is fixing stuff for free.

No recalls= bad.

- Ca$h

I guess but who wants to wait at the dealer 10 times?

I think that most of the recalls weren't voluntary either, NHTSA took the whole randomly deploying airbag thing pretty seriously.

The window regulator thing does suck, but VWoA is doing a voluntary recall on the 1.8T's coilpacks and is giving everyone a free rental that comes in, regardless of warranty status.

imaxxedout69 · May 5, 2003, 09:47 PM

Fun car suggestions, that are still reliable and have 4 doors, power windows, locks, etc.

#1 The Ford Contour SVT. Kickass car. Drives like a BMW, has Recaro leather seats, dependable, 200hp, incredible suspension, looks, tons of luxury options (power seats, sunroof, power mirrors, power locks, windows, keyless entry, and more.

Here are some reviews: (as you can see, nothing but praise)

http://cartalk.cars.com/Info/Testdri...-svt-1998.html

http://www.edmunds.com/reviews/roadt...5/article.html

http://www.theautochannel.com/conten...o09019703.html

Here's a link to help you find one:
http://www.candsnet.com/Ford_Car/Ford_Contour_SVT.htm

I STRONGLY urge you to test drive one of these before purchasing that stratus... the contour is the same size, equally reliable, and a lot more fun. There's even a Contour SVT club you can join at www.contour.org.

Anyway, this is the car I'd get if I had 8 grand and wanted a 4 door. ITS AWESOME. The shifter is SOOO NICE!!!! ACK! I'm getting excited.
Comments

1998 FORD Contour SVT * 2 Photos! * * This four door vehicle features Power Steering, Power Brakes, Power Door Locks, Power Windows, Power Driver's Seat, AM/FM Stereo Radio, Trip Odometer, Tachometer, Air Conditioning, Tilt Steering Wheel, and Cruise Control.

_Options Installed

Power Steering; Power Brakes; Power Door Locks; Power Windows; Alloy Wheels; Clock; Trip Odometer; Tachometer; Tilt Steering Wheel; Interval Wipers; Rear Defroster; Remote Trunk Lid; Driver Side Airbag; Console; Vanity Mirror; Day-Night Lever; Dual Sport Mirrors; Front Bucket Seats; Reclining Seats; Accent Stripes; Body Side Moldings; Power Drivers Seat; Sport Steering Wheel; Courtesy Lights; Leather Upholstery; Keyless Entry; CD Player; Anti-Lock Breaking System; Passenger Side Airbag; AM-FM Stereo Radio; Privacy Glass;

- Ca$h

zigzag · May 5, 2003, 09:54 PM

Originally posted by maxintosh:
. . . VWoA is doing a voluntary recall on the 1.8T's coilpacks and is giving everyone a free rental that comes in, regardless of warranty status.

Yeah, but they dragged their feet on it until the pressure got to be too much to bear, including the threat of a forced recall.

It wouldn't have mattered much, since they couldn't get a fast-enough supply of coils, but they didn't do most of the owners any favors until the pressure mounted. I'm not trying to bash VW - I own one - but neither do I think they deserve any special credit in this case.

villalobos · May 5, 2003, 10:03 PM

Originally posted by imaxxedout69:
I don't see anything wrong with recalls. What's worse is when they DONT do recalls, like VW did with the window regulators and the something on the 1.8T engine (fuel pump?).

Recalls= good because the marque is fixing stuff for free.

No recalls= bad.

- Ca$h

Well VW did not do a recall on the window regulators but they still fixed the thing for free (out of warranty).
The Golf is just a pleasure to drive, but I have to admit that the reliability is a little short of what I expected (electronics mostly, the 2.0L engine will run forever).

villa.

Truepop · May 5, 2003, 10:11 PM

I also vote Jetta.

My friend was looking for one and it looks great.

I personally would buy used.

danielb0101 · May 5, 2003, 11:59 PM

Originally posted by imaxxedout69:
I like both of those hyundais.

Anyway, AVOID VWs and AUDIS. They are unreliable cars, and cost quite a bit to get fixed.

- Ca$h

I own a '99 VW Jetta with 50k miles. The only time it's been in the shop is for oil/brakes/tires. A one light bulb went out.

My friends 97 Jetta has 100k miles, never been in the shop, either.

Audi A4's are beautiful, awesome cars.

VW and Audi don't have the problems that plagued them in the 80's.

Kenneth · May 6, 2003, 12:06 AM

Recalls =

Typical American cars... esp. FORD.

Kilbey · May 6, 2003, 12:07 AM

EXACTLY what I was thinking.

Originally posted by G4ME:
says the man with the SVX

Kilbey · May 6, 2003, 12:14 AM

I was looking at the Saturn Vues, and I think they are a great under $20k new SUV/car. Nice milage with Saturn's reliability.

However, there are quite a few nice used cars to be had for under $20k. I'd look for something with a Buick 3800 engine. Pontiac Bonneville, Buick Regal, Monte Carlo, Buick LeSabre, Buick Park Avenue, even a few Camaros... VERY reliable engine. I used to work at Buick engineering for a few years and we had quite a few test engines with over 2,000,000 miles on them. If an engine failed with less than 200,000 miles we discected it and determined what happened. But that was rare. Lots of power and EXTREMELY relaible.

Originally posted by sworthy:
My SO is looking to buy a new car. Our price range is definitely limited (and something closer to 15k might be better). Just wondering if anyone had any good suggestions. Or do you think we should get a used car, say a 2000?

Please help me out

7Macfreak · May 6, 2003, 12:37 AM

a jetta or an A4.

nvaughan3 · May 6, 2003, 12:58 AM

dodge SRT-4

nvaughan3 · May 6, 2003, 12:59 AM

Originally posted by capuchin:
Mini Cooper.

CVT model w/a few extras - $18,750

Yeah, I know, but if ca$h is going to push his vehicle of choice, I'm bound to push mine...

nice looking car-but underpowered without the turbo and too expensive with it. Also, ridiculous that you have to buy navigation system to get the speedometer behind the steering wheel where it belongs.

RGB · May 6, 2003, 01:12 AM

Originally posted by nvaughan3:
nice looking car-but underpowered without the turbo and too expensive with it. Also, ridiculous that you have to buy navigation system to get the speedometer behind the steering wheel where it belongs.

The supercharged MINI Cooper S for just under $20k without any additional options is still a great deal. You get a LOT of comfort and performance for your cash. Also, I happen to like having the speedo in the center. The MINI Cooper S is made for hard sport driving, so this puts the tach right up front, showing its importance

If I had more money to spend on a car, I'd surely be driving a MINI Cooper S right now instead of my Elantra GT. Don't get me wrong, my Elantra is a great, reliable, practical, comfortable car, but the Cooper S is just so much faster!

The Elantra does handle twisty roads exceptionally well though. And I had absolutely no comfort problems in it on my 8 hour each way road trip a month ago.

nvaughan3 · May 6, 2003, 01:21 AM

Cmon, you gotta spend $1250 just to get cruise control. With the SRT-4 out 160hp out of a 4 banger is antiquated. Good god would I love to have the car but even with the turbo performance is not where it should be for 20K.

Either way I'm either going for the cooper S or the Dodge SRT-4 after my 92 civic finally craps (anytime now....) but the relatively high price of the cooper puts me off.

Zimphire · May 6, 2003, 01:24 AM

I would like the SRT-4 a lot more if it had a coupe option.

nvaughan3 · May 6, 2003, 01:31 AM

or a sunroof option.

RGB · May 6, 2003, 01:50 AM

Originally posted by nvaughan3:
Cmon, you gotta spend $1250 just to get cruise control. With the SRT-4 out 160hp out of a 4 banger is antiquated. Good god would I love to have the car but even with the turbo performance is not where it should be for 20K.

Either way I'm either going for the cooper S or the Dodge SRT-4 after my 92 civic finally craps (anytime now....) but the relatively high price of the cooper puts me off.

As far as price / performance goes, the SRT-4 is the first car to really beat the Cooper S. Look at the other factory tuned options at around 20k:

Ford Focus SVT
Civic Si
Cavalier LS Sport
MazdaSpeed Protege
Nissan Sentra Spec V-R
etc

Not a single one of them will beat the Cooper S from 0 - 60. The only car in that range that will is one of the Golf GTI models. The cheaper golfs are slow as hell though, using the 115hp engine. I'd be driving a base golf if it weren't such a slow driver. I realize that 0-60 times isn't everything, but it's also hard to argue with the go-kart like handling of the Cooper S that takes on Ferraris. Only the MazdaSpeed will handle better in that range.

The SRT-4 changes things a bit. The performance is heads over heals better than the rest of the pack. But the cabin is still derived from a Neon, and isn't that plush to sit in. My favorite aspect of the Cooper S is its interior. Comfortable seats, cool console, nice materials, etc.

designbc · May 6, 2003, 08:46 AM

I purchased my car last year at Carmax. Good price for an "almost new" car. Certified, warranty, etc., etc.
I personally hate to pay for the depreciation of the first year.
With the money you have you'll get a better car with few miles. Already tested.
I always lease new and buy used.

Oneota · May 6, 2003, 10:56 AM

Originally posted by imaxxedout69:
Very UGLY car.

I could go into why I think it's one of the ugliest cars made if you'd like.

- Ca$h

PS: IT's more than ugly, it pisses me off when I see one.

Hmph. Well, you're entitled to your opinion. I think they're cool, personally.

To each his own, I s'pose.

cenutrio · May 6, 2003, 11:37 AM

OK,

My preference would be a VW Beattle (low-end convertible price is in the $20,000!!!) or a new Mini.

For the cheapest option I would go for the ford Focus. I love it in navy blue and 5 doors. It is a good package.

designbc · May 6, 2003, 11:56 AM

Originally posted by imaxxedout69:
Very UGLY car.

I could go into why I think it's one of the ugliest cars made if you'd like.

- Ca$h

PS: IT's more than ugly, it pisses me off when I see one.

Yes, it is ugly, but the UGLIEST EVER is the Toyota ECHO. It's a visual offense.

Steve · May 6, 2003, 12:31 PM

Originally posted by designbc:
Yes, it is ugly, but the UGLIEST EVER is the Toyota ECHO. It's a visual offense.

You forgot about the Asstec, I mean Aztec.