 WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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I'm currently in the market for something that is small, relatively inexpensive, economical, and have at least some amount of 'fun factor'. I'm torn between shear fun and utility. The range is something like a Miata on the 'just fun' side to an Element on the 'high utility' side. It seems I'm continually drawn to the Mini-Cooper as sort of a compromise and the Scion Tc as more practical fun. Does anyone have one of either, and, if so, what are the good/bad points.
2004 Triumph Speedmaster (J Lo) 2006 Yamaha Stratoliner (Adele)
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Re: WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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May I recomend a Mazda 3 hatch. I have a 2005 and absolutely love it. It has a 2.3l, tons of room for stuff, and in the words of Automobile Magazine "This is the car BMW wishes they could build" I so far have 75k miles on it, and not a single problem. I also added a Cold Air Intake and a K&N racing filter and man does that car go. And it handles like a dream. Go drive one, you will see.
2007 Custom America with BUBs
I make my own parts cause I cant afford to buy theirs.
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Re: WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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Learned Hand
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Lil brother is buying an 88 325xi for 1500 bucks, comes with an scaa cage, I see this being way too much fun. He also picked up 2 70s 2002s. He's been in the 4x4 thing for a while so this is a total change of pace for us.
I wish I still had my rabbit gti that thing was one of the ultimate light, fun and fast sleepers. Well until the Shelby Omni.
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Re: WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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Joined: Apr 2005
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Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
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See if you can find a old Dodge Omni GLH.. My sister had one that thing was flipping fast and a blast to drive.
Dont like what you see??? Big red X in the top right of your screen will fix it!
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Re: WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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Joined: Jan 2005
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"Lighten up, Francis."
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"Lighten up, Francis."
Joined: Jan 2005
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Depends on how cheap you want to go. I'd look for an old VW GTI, the original "hot hatch."
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Re: WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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Joined: Jan 2005
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Monkey Butt
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Monkey Butt
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Quote:
I'm currently in the market for something that is small, relatively inexpensive, economical, and have at least some amount of 'fun factor'. I'm torn between shear fun and utility. The range is something like a Miata on the 'just fun' side to an Element on the 'high utility' side. It seems I'm continually drawn to the Mini-Cooper as sort of a compromise and the Scion Tc as more practical fun. Does anyone have one of either, and, if so, what are the good/bad points.
I picked up my Mini Cooper S in September. It is a better handling car than almost any of the "sports cars" out there. But, it is not a cheap car. Mine is a turbo, but is not a loaded unit. I paid about $25,000 out the door. It is a HOOT to drive so don't drive one unless you plan to get one. The non turbo can be had for around 19-20K.
You can go to their website and price one.
http://miniusa.com/#/MINIUSA.COM-m
Additionally, there is a pretty good user website.
http://www.northamericanmotoring.com/
Here is an article from Motor Trend
http://www.motortrend.com/features/auto_news/2006/112_news060817_new_2007_mini_cooper
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Re: WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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Joined: Sep 2006
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Thanks, Larry. That's what I wanted. I've been to all the websites and have been admiring them from afar for some time. The hold-up is the Mrs. - very conventional. At this point she doesn't even want one sitting in the driveway (HA!). I think if I get her behind the wheel, she'll sing another tune. ANyway, Thanks.
2004 Triumph Speedmaster (J Lo) 2006 Yamaha Stratoliner (Adele)
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Re: WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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Joined: Aug 2005
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Adjunct
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Adjunct
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Quote:
May I recomend a Mazda 3 hatch. I have a 2005 and absolutely love it. It has a 2.3l, tons of room for stuff, and in the words of Automobile Magazine "This is the car BMW wishes they could build" I so far have 75k miles on it, and not a single problem. I also added a Cold Air Intake and a K&N racing filter and man does that car go. And it handles like a dream. Go drive one, you will see.
I second this. I have an '07 Mazda3 5-door and it is a REALLY fun car. Mine's still stock and it's still got a good amount of power. The handling is also exceptional.
(also more practical than the mini)
-neight
2004 Triumph Bonneville Black
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Re: WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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Joined: Aug 2005
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Adjunct
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Adjunct
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Then there's also the fastest frontwheel drive car on the market...the MazdaSpeed3. Read this: Car and Driver 10 Best
-neight
2004 Triumph Bonneville Black
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Re: WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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Joined: Jun 2005
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Oil Expert
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Oil Expert
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You don't say whether you're in the market for a new or used car. I can attest that you can pick up a VERY nice BMW Z3 for less than $15K or an M Roadster (what I have) for less than $20K, The Z3 line was discontinued in 2002 when the Z4 series was introduced. The M Roadster has 240 to 315 HP depending on the year. They are lightning fast and very maneuverable. If you want to visit the forum for these cars, go to www.bimmerforums.com and introduce yourself. You'll have to navigate to the Z3 model page. I LOVE my M!! 
JB
"Long live the Duck Force!"
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Re: WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 12,877
Should be Riding
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Should be Riding
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I loved my Jetta when I had it (my dad has it now). Tons of fun, and with the seats folded I could fit 8' lumber in it windows closed.
One of my good friends has a Mazda3 with a stick. I love driving that car! I love it when he says "dude I'm tired, you mind driving?" so I would definitely put another tick on that list.
I test drove a Mini CooperS and it is a NICE car. Not nearly as useful as the Mazda, and pricier, but it's like a gokart with a radio.
I hear really good things about the new GTi and you can get it in a 4 door...
If I had the scratch I'd get a Mazdaspeed 3.
Benny
Black & Silver '02
Too many mods to list
Not enough miles ridden
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Re: WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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Joined: Mar 2006
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Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
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I would pass on the GTI and get a new r32 same idea just all wheel drive.
we need a budget here. We can spend you money all day long just need to know how much we're talking about.
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Re: WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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Joined: Jan 2005
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Should be Riding
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Should be Riding
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I hear that on the budget! I like the R32 also. Too bad it's not really faster than the GTi... And the turbo is easier to tune... But that 6 sounds SWEEEEET! I wish they would do an R32 treatment on a Jetta! How badass would a R32 Jetta wagon be? 
Benny
Black & Silver '02
Too many mods to list
Not enough miles ridden
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Re: WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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I supose I failed a bit by not explaining budget - I prefer new but wouldn't rule out a cherry used car. I'd like to stay near or below 20 large but would consider up to 23. I can live quite alright without a lot of convenience glitz but prefer 'look' and performance over lux and cutesy gimmicks. The Mazda 3 is high on my list, as is VW. The new Corolla is interesting - but it seems more show than go. There's somethin' about that Mini that make my juices flow. That "go cart with a radio" statement really hits the mark.
As for used - I'd love an older Z3, but you can't find one for a fair price or its a dog. I recently missed a Honda S2000, by being iffy - It was sweat, low miles, AND owned by some car loving old guy (not unlike myself - HA!). I moved too slow. That would have been nice...
2004 Triumph Speedmaster (J Lo) 2006 Yamaha Stratoliner (Adele)
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Re: WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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Joined: Jan 2005
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Old Hand
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Old Hand
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Here you go, http://www.tomstrongman.com/ClassicCars/Crosleys/Index.htmCars don't come any more fun and economical than that.
Let's hope there's intelligent life somewhere in space 'cause it's buggar all down here. -- Monte Python
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 Re: WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 5,616
Check Pants
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Check Pants
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go with the mini...cool, great mileage and lots o aftermarker hop ups.
For something older id say go with a Honda Civic or a CRX (my preference). The 89-91 were the better body styles (IMO) and those cars still got upwards of 40+mpg.
Last edited by Zmilin; 02/15/2008 11:33 PM.
SOLD: 07 Black BA, 39mm FCRs, TPUSA stage 1 head, TPUSA 813 cams, TPUSA 10.8:1 pistons, TTP #3 igniter, Specialty Spares Long Cannons, Tsukayu Hard Bags. 82HP/55tq
NEW: 19 Goldwing Tour DCT
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Re: WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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Joined: Jan 2005
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Should be Riding
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Should be Riding
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The s200 has less than zero utility!! And it doesn't push till you really reve it. I like revving motors, but I don't like waiting for thrust, ya know? The 3 or the VW will have better low end grunt, if you can call 4 cylinders grunt...
Benny
Black & Silver '02
Too many mods to list
Not enough miles ridden
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Re: WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
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Not mentioned yet is the HONDA FIT. Fits two adults nicely and 2 kids. Its very fun to drive, handels great. 48 mpg or so depending on your driving habbits. Speed TV did a test with it aginst some compareable models and tricked it up w/ suspension upgrades and the standard k&n and such. Pretty cool. give it a drive. 
Mal: "Y'all see the man hanging out of the spaceship with the really big gun?{ref, Jayne} Man's lookin' to kill some folk. So really, it's his will y'all should worry about thwarting."
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Re: WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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Joined: Jan 2005
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Should be Riding
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Should be Riding
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Yes! Good call.
Also not mentioned, Mini Cooper S Clubman...
Benny
Black & Silver '02
Too many mods to list
Not enough miles ridden
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Re: WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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Joined: Jun 2006
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Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
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The VW GTI or Jetta are better all around cars than the Mini or the Mazda. The Corolla sucks. Look around some, there are deasl to be found on something fun.
I have a 2001 Jetta 1.8 turbo, loaded, Borbet 17 wheels, sport suspension, leather, heated seat, monsoon, and only 27K.
My work vehicel is a 08 Element SC, and the SC really is much nicer than the other Elements. I have had this since the end of Oct and got 15k on it already, its great. Previously, I have a 03 Element EX, for 4 years and 206K on it, it was quite a joy to run around in, but the SC is a big upgrade ( and new is sticker at about 24K, so I would bet you could find a deal on it ).
Our Liberties We Prize and Our Rights We Will Maintain
If a nation expects to be ignorant and free, in a state of civilization, it expects what never was and will never be.----Thomas Jefferson
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Re: WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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Joined: Jan 2005
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Monkey Butt
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Monkey Butt
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Isn't the Element the box a real car comes in? 
We all like to think of ourselves as rugged individualists. But when push comes to shove most of us are sheep who do what we are told. Worst of all, a lot of us become unpaid agents of whoever is controlling the agenda by enforcing the current dogma on the few rugged individualists who actually exist.
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Re: WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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Old Hand
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Old Hand
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Quote:
Isn't the Element the box a real car comes in?
You can't fit anything bigger than a 1:8 scale model of a real car in there.
While not cheap, the Hemi Charger and Hemi Challenger are fun cars.
Let's hope there's intelligent life somewhere in space 'cause it's buggar all down here. -- Monte Python
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Re: WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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Learned Hand
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Larry, I took your cue and went for a test ride in the mini - crap, what fun!!! Yep - "go cart with a radio" is indeed dead on. I'm still shopping though.
2004 Triumph Speedmaster (J Lo) 2006 Yamaha Stratoliner (Adele)
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Re: WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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Joined: Feb 2005
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3/4 Throttle
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3/4 Throttle
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Re: WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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Monkey Butt
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Monkey Butt
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Quote:
Larry, I took your cue and went for a test ride in the mini - crap, what fun!!! Yep - "go cart with a radio" is indeed dead on. I'm still shopping though.
The test drive was what got me too. 65 through turns marked at 25. Sports car disguised as a coupe. Even the bike can't out turn it. Maybe I need to get a second bike? Speed Triple maybe 
We all like to think of ourselves as rugged individualists. But when push comes to shove most of us are sheep who do what we are told. Worst of all, a lot of us become unpaid agents of whoever is controlling the agenda by enforcing the current dogma on the few rugged individualists who actually exist.
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Re: WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
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The new Honda Civic is worth a look in my opinion. Checked one out when were buying an Odyssey for my wife. Cool looking little car, but larger than the older models. Got a 5-speed for funzies. Consistently get 30 mpg in town and 35-36 mpg on the road. Just took it to Daytona. Moves right along at 85 mph. Two pretty good size boys had no comfort issues on the 34 hour round trip. Can be had for $16-17K. Factor in Honda reliability and resale value and it's hard to beat.
Last edited by blackdog; 02/21/2008 9:52 AM.
"Despite all the amputation, you could dance to a rock 'n roll station..."
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Re: WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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Joined: Jun 2007
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Loquacious
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Loquacious
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im not sure what they run used but subaru impreeza WRX are nice  i always like the acura RSX as well 
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Re: WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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Joined: Jan 2005
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Loquacious
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Loquacious
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Quote:
I'm currently in the market for something that is small, relatively inexpensive, economical, and have at least some amount of 'fun factor'. I'm torn between shear fun and utility.
Expensive is all relatuive i suppose.
But for utility on a budget how about one of these,
and if its fun you want, well look no further.
happy hunting
Arsenalfan. AKA Mark Able
Seller of fine automobiles.
Jaguar, Land Rover, Porsche of Chattanooga
423-424-4000
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Re: WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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Learned Hand
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OP
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You've provided me with a nice wide range there. I'll keep both extreems in mind - and I know I'll lean toward the later example. The degree of tilt will ultimately be determined by my better half.
2004 Triumph Speedmaster (J Lo) 2006 Yamaha Stratoliner (Adele)
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Re: WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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Joined: Aug 2007
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Should be Riding
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Should be Riding
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I was going to post this in the real gas post but maybe you can use the info for your future purchase. BTW, I have a '02 VW Beetle diesel, plenty of power and great fuel economy (45 mpg) and its fun enough. My girlfriends sister has had 2 mini coopers, 1 convertible 1 hardtop, and they were both awesome. And with one of those, your bike could snuggle up to it in their own little British way  http://finance.yahoo.com/loans/article/104365/Diesels-Image-Crisis
Last edited by roadworthy; 02/21/2008 7:19 PM.
Always remember to be yourself. Unless you suck. Then pretend to be someone else.
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 Re: WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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Joined: Feb 2005
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Complete Newb
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Complete Newb
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Geez...why doesnt anybody even consider an american car, chevy cobalt ss!! 205 hp, easily upgraded and fun to drive.
2003 Speedmaster
1974 CB 750-4 Chopper
1995 chevy s10 350v8
1986 olds 442 455v8
1991 chevy k1500
My vehicles are "greener" than your hybrid
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Re: WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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Joined: Feb 2007
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Fe Butt
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Fe Butt
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I had an 89 Escort that was smashed in the front that I had towed in for junk I had a latr model that I stuffed the front end from on to it. It was a GT with the HO engine and the 5spd std trans. It was a POS but it was great fun to drive and it was free and in the end I made about $1500 on it when I sold it.
I learned all I need to know about life by killing smart people and eating their brains.
Eat right ,Exercise ,Stay fit, Die Anyway!
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Re: WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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Adjunct
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Adjunct
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Test drive a Subaru before you make your purchase. The all wheel drive makes it a kick on the curves. The Impreeza(sp?) is nice, if you want something with more utility look at what they call the Outback Sport. It is a hatchback Impreeza with a lot of nice options included in the base model. I drive a 5 speed manual and will most likely get another when I have to trade in a few years. Worth checking out.
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Re: WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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Joined: Aug 2007
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Should be Riding
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Should be Riding
Joined: Aug 2007
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Quote:
Geez...why doesnt anybody even consider an american car
Because there are too many other options for a better price with a better warranty and better mileage and less weekly safety recalls and as much as I am all for the UAW and all the working people involved with making a quality product, the days of Lee Iococa are over and corporate greed wins out. American car companies are on the way out and dont have anyone to blame but themselves. 
Always remember to be yourself. Unless you suck. Then pretend to be someone else.
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Re: WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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Joined: Jun 2006
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Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
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The nice thing about the Element, or any Honda for a matter of fact, is that it(they) will run forever, with little to no issues, and repairs(if needed) are inexpensive, unlike the Mini ( or any BMW product ). The SC is actually surprising in how fun it can be to drive, with a sport suspension set up and all (not like a Civic of course, but this is much better than many "work" vehicles, like a Taurus or Impala), and the vehicle has major utility with it (and a 270 watt stereo stock).
For much more fun, my Jetta is quite a treat. I may change out the chip and exhaust to boost it up to 210 hp.
Our Liberties We Prize and Our Rights We Will Maintain
If a nation expects to be ignorant and free, in a state of civilization, it expects what never was and will never be.----Thomas Jefferson
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Re: WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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Joined: Jan 2005
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Monkey Butt
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Monkey Butt
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Quote:
Geez...why doesnt anybody even consider an american car, chevy cobalt ss!! 205 hp, easily upgraded and fun to drive.
I looked at them too. The Crossfire, the Saturn and Pontiac 2 seaters, Mustang GT and the Cobalt too. But, the Mini Cooper R56S was just way too much fun. Plus, no one else has one like it in the Des Moines area. Which also has some possible drawbacks
My 2001 silver Chevy Blazer, on the other hand, was invisible.
We all like to think of ourselves as rugged individualists. But when push comes to shove most of us are sheep who do what we are told. Worst of all, a lot of us become unpaid agents of whoever is controlling the agenda by enforcing the current dogma on the few rugged individualists who actually exist.
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Re: WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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Joined: Jun 2006
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Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
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Neat colour choice for your Mini, its a good look for a nice car.
Our Liberties We Prize and Our Rights We Will Maintain
If a nation expects to be ignorant and free, in a state of civilization, it expects what never was and will never be.----Thomas Jefferson
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Re: WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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Joined: Sep 2006
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Learned Hand
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OP
Learned Hand
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Quote:
Geez...why doesnt anybody even consider an american car, chevy cobalt ss!! 205 hp, easily upgraded and fun to drive.
My daughter bought the pontiac version last year. Frankly, I'm not interested. Break your neck getting in, can't wear a hat, forehead hits the sun visors, paint ain't all that sweet, handles ok at best, feels 'front heavy', dead pedal poorly placed, and that great GM fit and finish. Actually, not a bad design though as far as eye appealing. Shame of it is that I'd love to buy AMERICAN whenever posible. There came a point when I realized some of that loyalty was just unapreciated self sacrifice. I don't want to start a small war or sound un-American but that's just how I feel about consumer goods these days. Part in parcel as to why I chose a Triumph quite frankly. I know all the pros and cons - That ain't what the thread is about though, so if you wish to counter, please start another thread. I'm tired of the winter debates, too. Peace, out, and cheers.
2004 Triumph Speedmaster (J Lo) 2006 Yamaha Stratoliner (Adele)
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Re: WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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Learned Hand
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OP
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2004 Triumph Speedmaster (J Lo) 2006 Yamaha Stratoliner (Adele)
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Re: WAY OT - Cheap fun cars
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Joined: Jan 2005
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Member
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Member
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I'll add another vote for the Mazda 3 Hatchback. I have a 2007 2.3s GT. Came standard with leather, auto headlamps, rain sensing wipers, heated seats, 6 disc CD with aux input, and much more for under 23,000.
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