whats up guys. My name is Dan and the Evo is looking to be one of my main choices of my next car. I am graduating from college in a week, so this will be my first new car. I plan on getting a job and with that income buying a car. I know your views may be a little leaned toward the evo but i was wondering what you guys thought of these cars, as they are on my list. The list has a wide range price wise from about 18K- 32K , the evo MR being at the highest end of that price range.

Anyway here are the cars I am considering (in current wanting order right now):
1) Evo MR (I won't be buying within the next month so i can wait)
2) VW R32
3) Used BMW M3 (some can be had for 33K in E46 form (2001 models)
4) Dodge SRT-4
5) Mazda 3 five door
6) VW Jetta GLI (the new one with the 6 speed)

Thats about it. I must add that I currently drive a 1998 Dodge Neon R/T. I use the car for daily driving but also auto-x with it regularly with NASA at Giants stadium. The Neon is going to become my track car once i find a daily driver. I already have truechoice double adjustable Koni's waiting to go in. It will be stripped and caged, so there is no need to make arguements for using the car on a track, as my neon will basically out handle any of my choices after I am done with its transformation.

I guess its not just power I am looking for. The R32 and Evo are basically tied on my list just because of the interior refinement of the R32. Its true its no where near as fast or as capable handling wise, but I always had a thing for the little hatch back and now with AWD and a potent V6, Its sparked my interest.
The used M3 would actually be at the top of the list, but I want an E46 so that limits me to 2001 and newer. The cheapest one ive found so far is around 32.5K, so thats pushing my limits. Also the fact that its used and RWD turns me away, especially in NJ winters.
Now I always had a thing for the SRT-4 since its concept in 1999. What can I say I'm a big dodge fan, and for the price its unbeatable.
The mazda 3 is definately a contender due to price and handling ability, but then again this is to be used for daily driving, so I am not sure how often I'll be throwing it around corners.
The GLI jetta looks amazing. The small lip they added to the front gives it a mean stance and I like the 4 door usage. The 1.8T engine is ok on power, but the price of these VW cars gets up there. I think it runs for something around 23.5K.

Anyway I know this was a long post, but it was my first. I just wanted to say hi and see what you guys/gals think. Honest opinion for a daily driver that WILL NOT BE MODIFIED. All my extra cash is going into the track neon so modification will be a no no on the daily driver.
-Dan-

 

Welcome to the board!

Based on what you've said, I'd lean towards the SRT-4 or Mazda 3. Not sure if you considered it, but a Mazda 5 wagon might be a good choice. The $10,000 you save by getting one of these can be applied towards racing, and you really don't need what the other cars give you.

In my experiences - an Evo will outhandle a well-sorted Neon R/T. But not by much.

Good luck!

 

One advantage of the Evo is AWD. There's just something satisfying about accelerating that hard without any wheelspin.

And the steering. If you feel a sneeze coming on, for god's sake, pull over.

But the rental-car interior (except for seats and wheel) and questionable reliability are things to consider too.

People call it a "Sports Car," which is very misleading. Sports cars are compromised to some degree. The Evo isn't. It looks and feels like a gutted, race-prepped racecar.

That appeals to some. Others run for their lives.

I'm STILL teetering on the issue... though I'm at the point of trying to negotiate a price

 

Yeah see this is also part of my dilema. The srt-4 interior is so-so, and the exhaust is a little loud (no mufflers). Also the srt-4 has Mopar parts that are so cheap I may be tempted to do some things to it. I mean hell the Mopar stage 1 kit is only 400 bucks and gives much more punch with the new ecu (higher boost/fuel control) and larger injectors. Thats why I like Dodge so much. American parts are so damn cheap. I guess it really depends on if i get called in for a second interview with some of these places I applied for. They are offering 45-55K to start (Physics/engineeing major), so salary will tell how much i can really spend.
thanks for the replies.
-Dan-

 

If you are looking at the VW Jetta GLI, let me recommend buying my used VW GTI 337.

Check it out.. http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/show...hreadid=554328

Don't get the r32. its a heavy pig.

 

Zoom Zoom...

 

Take your time - you'll do the right thing with a little time

Chose the Evo - haven't look back!

 

have you thought about buying a WRX or an STi? both are great cars in that price range.

 

Think you should get the srt-4 its inexpensive and fast. dont buy a used BMW M3! watch out for maint. costs just to keep it up and running, it could cost you more than you think!

 

Yeah i am not looking at the WRX or STi just for personal reasons. I see them all over, and I really do not like the looks. The STi is basically just a flat out race car for the streets, with no radio etc. Thats not what im looking for. After thinking about it the M3 is a no go just because of insurance, parts, and price initial. Ive basically narrowed it down to the SRT-4 due to price etc.. but im still looking. Until i test drive each (ive been in the SRT) i wont really know for sure. School ends this week, so ill have some free time. Ill post again after i test drive the evo, srt, and mazda 3.
-Dan-