As a pistonhead of independent means, I’ve been lucky enough to own and sample a vast array of automotive hardware. If I had a car for every time a friend, associate, colleague or innocent bystander asked me to name my favorite car, I’d see Jay Leno’s aircraft hangar and raise him a Space Shuttle shelter. Of course, drilling down to one top whip would be like asking Angelina Jolie to name her least favorite husband—in reverse. Still, in the interests of stimulating debate, here are my four faves. I make no apologies for the fact that they’re all German; in the grand TTAC style, I call it like I see it and let the lederhosen fall where they may.
#4 Volkswagen GTI
At best, the new GTI is cute; at worst, it’s pug ugly. Like it or loathe it, you gotta love it: the GTI is the hardest working car in show business. How many vehicles offer this much performance and practicality for $24k? During my first week behind the wheel, I was convinced the speedometer was busted. Everywhere I drove, it read 90 mph. (The California Highway Patrol eventually verified the speedo’s accuracy.) When VW sent me one of those little plastic “Fast” thingies to thank me for my purchase, I mounted it in on the dash. Whenever my wife asks me to slow down, I just point and tell her to “Talk to the Fast.”
For a tallish front driver, the handling is supernaturally stable and sticky. The DSG transmission is almost as much fun as masturbation, except that I can’t match downshifts as smoothly. When I’m not paddling to paradise, I get 29 miles per gallon and satellite radio (a $1,000 option in my Civic, even though the radio proclaimed “XM Ready”). Sure, there’s a lot of plastic and the plaid (plaid?) seats are almost as hard to adjust as an iDrive radio, but otherwise, the GTI is a knockout for the money.
#3 BMW 330i
I’ve owned six of these ultimate driving machines in various guises, and they’ve all been a delight. The 3-Series [still] boasts a superbly communicative helm; powerful, feelsome brakes and the world’s smoothest six-banger. Generally speaking, you also get the best ride-handling trade off in the business: a car that cruises and thrashes with equal aplomb. Even though the Bavarians have done their level best to screw-up the basics with ill-considered over-engineering— numb active steering, stiff and loud run flat tires, badly Bangled sheetmetal, cost-cutting plastics— the 3-Series remains the sine qua non of sports sedans.
#2 Porsche 911 Carrera
No car handles, brakes and accelerates with more effortless élan than a 911 Carrera. Once a Spartan sports car for the chronically over-moneyed, the latest iteration offers enough electronic aids and creature comforts to soothe an S-Classicist. Just be sure to pack platinum plastic; breathe on the options list and you can kiss $10k goodbye. Pant on it and it’s entirely possible to drop $100k on the world’s fastest daily driver. Not that it’ll look it. Although the highly evolved Carerra shape is wandering into self-parody and ennui, there’s something legally attractive about a bling-less car that pumps out this much performance. A little more torque on the down-low and a little less impact from potholes would be nice (the tire and wheel choice have severe repercussions on ride quality), but otherwise the 911 is still high performance perfection.
#1 Mercedes E320 CDI / E55 AMG Wagon
One million German taxi drivers can’t be wrong: the E-Class is a hit. The E320 CDI version is my favorite iteration of this best selling mid-sized sedan. The oil burner’s 21 gallon fuel tank has carried me all the way from Phoenix to San Francisco; that’s 775 miles without stopping to fill the tank (just to empty my own). At the same time, the CDI stumps-up more torque than the current V8 (this will change shortly). Despite a little lag off the line, it’s faster than most petrol-powered sixes. Although the cabin lacks spizzarkle, the big E-z carries four adults and their stuff in bovine-skinned luxury and wood-grained comfort. She’ll dance (waltz, not salsa) when the rhythm of the road requires, even if the numb helm makes the car Vicodin-on-wheels. Mercedes promises that the new, monster E63 AMG will have more responsive steering and corner more eagerly (you’d certainly hope so). The improved dynamics wouldn’t go amiss further down the food chain.
Meanwhile, the E55 AMG (soon to be E63) Wagon is da bomb. Turn off the big rig’s traction control and you can leave Hemis behind in a cloud of tire smoke. Contrary to popular belief, this is not the perfect car for guys who like to drive fast and own big dogs; they’d have to constantly clean doggy slobber off the rear window. It’s the ultimate Q ship.
Cool article…it didn’t aim too high, giving us regular guys with regular incomes something to think about. I’m keeping this as realistic as possible…
Here’s my four…
#4 – Ford F150 (mid 90’s). These things take anything you can throw at them – a load of bricks, four yards of topsoil and mulch, lumber, furniture…anything. I’ve always wanted a beater of a truck to keep around for the hauling and projects that go on in my life, and a mid-90’s F150 can’t be beat. Used and abused, just like it’s supposed to be. 4WD to get me through those 4 or so tough storms a year that seem to hammer Pittsburgh into submission (although not as much the last few winters).
#3 Mercedes S – I’ve always wanted an old Mercedes S…just for the lux of the ride. Easy like Sunday Morning…
#2 BMW 330i – the car I was trying to purchase, but failed because of a bastard sales guy and inflated price. I’ve always wanted one, and I will get one before my days are done. I prefer the pre-2003 bodies, as the new ones look a bit overly cut…It just wasn’t in the cards this time, which brings me to…
#1 Acura TSX – I love this car. Which is why it’s my one and only right now (well…if I could afford a second one…see #4). It was the perfect balance of lux, sport, and value for me. Stylish enough to please, yet subtle enough to not scream “look at me”, comfy and quiet inside with a well laid out console, loaded from the top down at barely $30k. It’s got Honda reliability with Acura quality, with a ride that comes damn close to the 3-Series, and handling to match. The engine revs high, but lacks a little low end torque (will be fixed soon with a ECU upgrade and CAI). It’s not quite Lexus inside, but it’s a far cry from the big 3. I can’t help but feel I stole it for $27k…loaded, sporty, refined. I smile each time I drive it. It’s the bang for the buck king in my book…
Interesting that you put the GTI in there, considering that it’s FF. Usually the reviews here hate on the front wheelers, with the exception of the accord manual perhaps. I like both FF and FR for different reasons. I would love to hear a comparison editorial by someone who appreciates both.
While the TSX is a great car, for my money the bang for the buck king is the Jetta 2.0T. You get the same powertrain as the GTI in a four-door package, and you can’t fault VW on interior design either. The exterior is a little bland, but so’s the TSX. Of course, if reliability is your thing, the TSX is a better deal.
I wa scared away from VW by a friend with a ’03 Jetta that has been in the shop 5 about 6 full weeks total for various electrical and suspension issues in the past year alone. I drove the new Passat, and I was impressed with it, but something just didn’t feel right about it to me. However, the second I got in the TSX, I knew it was the car for me…and I can’t recall ever driving an Acura before.
You’ve got a good point on the Jetta, and I know that there are always going to be isolated vehicles in any line that, no matter the reliability, just have problems. The new Jetta is quit nice, but loaded up with all the TSX has, it ends up more expensive with less warranty…A VW may be in my future some day, perhaps in Audi form. We’ll see…
Without the DSG, the GTI is spanked by a fair bit of competition by the names of WRX, MazdaSpeed 6 sport AND upcoming speed3, to name a few. Still, Ill trade the DSG for AWD anytime. Never the less, the GTI is a terrific tool for the commuting job for under 25K and I dont mean to gloss over that little fact. Huzzah for the under 25K driver’s car!
I like Ronin’s take: truck, sportscar, wagon (my edit), and sedan. These are my favorites.
Truck- Ronin, you are so right on here. I will edit the year however. My 99 F150SC is fondly remembered. I added American Racing wheels and flogged it as a construction vehicle. That was one relentless performer.
Sportscar- to me, there was really only one choice…until recently. The Carrera is just timelessly attractive and the weapon of choice. Until I actually drive a Ferrari 360 Modena (I could never dream of owning a 430), I will not rule it out. Oh how a prancing horse does stoke my coals.
Wagon- Subaru Outback 2.5 turbo from 2005 with the manual tranny…game set and match. This car is the Gollden Retriever of the automotive world…a faithful friend up for anything you are, and then some.
Sedan- For me, every time I go out to reward myself for working hard and buying a BMW (three times now), I end up buying a Mazda product. The Mazdaspeed 6 is a seriously wonderful and well sorted out automobile that makes a compelling case for passing on a 330xi, and the requisite smug dealership experience.
Are there better cars? Maybe. But these are my favorites and each one would (or has) make/made me happy to write the check.
OK, I will join in on this fantasy…
1. I want a 05-06 Pontiac GTO. An American muscle car made in Australia! But where else do you get 400 hp, 6 speed trans, 4 seats, IRS, and no sunroof? The sunroof refers to another article on your blog. Who cares if it looks like a bloated Grand Am? 400 HP! Six speed! Real brakes and suspension! Beats the original ones every time…
2. C4 Corvette. Preferably one with the ZR-1 motor. Or the 1996 Grand Sport with the LT-4. Either one is fine with me.
3. 1972 Olds 442. I had one, but sold it off due to a job change. It’s not the baddest or fastest of them, but the one I had was a good runner and reliable. Beat the crap out of that thing, it just came back for more. And more.
4. Caddy STS. Same power train as the GTO, more doors and a sunroof. Well, at least that last option will keep the wife happy…
I have always loved muscle cars and American Iron, no matter how crappy (or great). I have tried living with trucks and vans, etc. but it never works out.
I’m a car guy.
Hey, I wanna play!
Truck- Chevy Silverado, regular cab. Any year, any 350 V-8 iteration. Especially like the 5.3 liter LS1 in the newest versions. Any way you look at it, these trucks just keep going, and going, and going. 2-300K miles is the norm for the GM pushrod V-8. It’s a great performer, and good on gas mileage.
Sportscar- Is there any choice? Corvette Z06. 505 HP, 500 ft/lbs. Reasonable price. Can’t get that performance anywhere else for anywhere close to the same money. A real bargain. Now, if I could just afford one………
Wagon- ’94, ’95 or ’96 Buick Roadmaster. I do have one of these. Magnificent automobile. The high-water mark of the typical American car. Cruise all day at interstate speeds, feel like staying in the car to sleep. It’s that good! Cruise mileage exceeds 25mpg on most days. With the towing package, it has a suspension that makes it not a handful on mountain roads, too.
Sedan- Caddy Deville. My last one was a ’93. It was beautiful. Rode great, handled good (once you get past the initial mush of the suspension, the car really does come to life). The newer ones are even better. Lots of room, decent mpg, unbeatable ride and quietness. Steady in the road. Do not cost a fortune to repair.
Porker likes GM…
geozinger –
I’ll agree with most of your choices (okay, I’m a little iffy on the ‘Vette) – but I’d mention that the STS is a 469 HP Northstar V8, not the 400 HP LS2 of the GTO you speak of. But more is better, right? That depends.
Although I like the Caddy, and the Northstar is very potent, should you ever venture to the aftermarket to separate your vehicle from the crowd with a quick bolt-on, you’d much rather have an LS based goat (preferably an LS2) if you’d like any sort of breadth of choice.
Still a great choice for some seriously plush 4 door American muscle, though, especially if you’ve got the coin and the Charger SRT-8 interior hurts your elbows.
– 86 Porsche 944 (My dad has one and i have never been able to drive it…the forbidden fruit)
– 92 VW GTI 2.0 16v: great toss-able car, i want to pick one up as a project
– Aston Martin DB9: for no other reason then to sit and stare at
– Mazda Miata: so much potential in that little roadster
OK, I’m only 42, but my tastes are a bit “retro”, and my kink is towards the small and fun.
4. A Lotus Elise.
It is light, fast, fun, and relatively economical. It is one of the few cars of today that really turns my crank. My secret desire would be to have an Elise with a VW TDI engine… light, fun, and VERY economical. The ultimate commuter/sports car!
3. A 1957-1962 Mercedes-Benz 300sl
That would be a roadster, not a “gullwing”… All the benefits of the iconic 300sl without the downsides of the coupe body (heat, goofy doors, etc.) A 300sl appreciates in value better than gold bullion or crude oil. They are luxurious, reliable, comfortable, fast, and pack more style than any car built today, or ever for that matter. It is a smooth cruiser on the street, and a snarling monster on the track. This car is so cool, it is at Absolute Zero.
2. An Ariel Atom.
I want to have to reach behind my ears to pull my lips back around to the front of my face.
1. A D-type Jag, or even better, it’s road-legal twin the Jaguar XKSS.
Truly the penultimate sports car. I have the privilege of being the caretaker of its descendant, an E-type. The earlier car is more raw, more aggressive than its refined progeny. Less than 20 XKSS’ left Coventry before the tragic fire destoyed the factory, making this a very rare cat indeed. Good enough for Steve McQueen, good enough for me.
4. VW GTI
Completly agree with Shoemaker on this one. I had an ’87 GTi, so there’s some residual warm fuzzies there. I had a blast when I took the new one for a spin. I hate the new look, but I really almost bought one after my fourth test drive. Yes, almost. The dealer was pissed.
3. MINI Cooper S
How can you not love this thing? It’s not practical at all, but who cares! Everytime I see one, I want it. They are amazing to drive to. Everything feels fast. Telepathic handling. Very fun car.
2. Subaru WRX STi
I love this one so much I bought one. So I guess I’m biased. But if you’ve only got 32k in your car budget, love to drive, and don’t mind looking like a jackass, I can’t imagine buying anything else.
1. Porsche Cayman S
I’ve never driven one. I’ve never even SEEN one in the metal. But I know I want one. I’ve wanted a 911 since I was 10 years old. Before I knew anything about cars, I knew that the 911 was cool, and couldn’t comprehend why my parents didn’t have 2 of them. Well, the Cayman is cheaper, and (alot of people whould argue) better.
I can’t pass up such a thought-provoking opportunity. I’d list these four:
4. Volvo 240 wagon – I practically grew up in one, and have never been in such a practical car since.
3. BMW M5 – The perfect combination of lux and performance. Perhaps the first generation was the best, but they’ve all been extraordinary.
2. Ariel Atom – the least car you can buy at any price. So pure.
1. Mitsu Evo IX – An amazing car. Is it the fastest sedan under $100k?
Good list as Ronin said. Nothing in there (save for the AMG and Porsche) that those of us with ordinary incomes could and can afford.
I will follow the editorial’s original concept and just list my four favorites that I have had the pleasure of driving and/or owning:
4. BMW 325Ci. I really wanted a 330Ci at the time, but I was pressed for time in buying a car (just got back into the country and needed a ride quickly) and the dealer only had a 325Ci in his inventory with a manual (a MUST). Superb handling, incredibly poised and balanced, the smoothest engine I have ever driven, quiet, comfortable, I could go on and on. The experience was ruined by a trip to the service center 4 times in a month, with the last time for a dead ECU.
3. 1995ish Toyota Tacoma LX 4×4. Best light truck ever. It could go places in 2wd that many trucks struggled in 4wd (so it seemed). It would just scamper over everything and not break a sweat.
2. Audi S8. Ok, so I have not owned one nor driven one, but the new Audi S8 just exudes pimpness. How can you argue with a sedan that massive that does a 0-60 under 5 seconds? Only if I had the means…..
1. 2000 to 2002 Audi S4 sedan (though I would have loved an Avant). I have had the great pleasure of owning one of these cars. A simple ECU swap and suspension change and its a whole ‘nother beast. The ECU swap can get you up to 350 ft-lbs of torque. Spend another $4000 for the turbo upgrade and you are in the 420 ft-lb range on pump gas. Put in some 100 octane and hold on Major Tom. The block was indestructible (wish I could say the same for the stock turbos though). I put this ahead of the S8 only because I owned one.
1. Golf GTI DSG – I couldn’t agree more with my man Shoemaker. The GTI is a hoot for chump change. The DSG is the world’s best gearbox, capable of generating maximum fun from a fun-derful chassis and free-revving engine. The brakes may be a bit, um, clumsy, but if you can’t drive this thing fast, brother, you can’t drive. Audi A3 is close, but cheap and cheerful beats expensive and cheerful everytime.
2. Porsche Cayman – Sorry, the 911 is no longer The Daddy. The Cayman has everything you need in a daily sports car: a reasonable ride and handling, handling and more handling. Oh, and a bit of grunt. Of course, the Cayman needs to be either stripped down or powered-up, but we can’t hold that against the car. Not when you can have SO much fun.
3. Porsche Boxster – Same as above, less money, more air.
4. Lard Rover LR3 – I mean, Land Rover LR3. Yes, it’s unreliable. Yes, it’s a thirsty pig. But MAN is it confortable and capable. The Plug ‘N Play Off Roading For Dummies controller makes it possible for idiots like me to explore our inner explorer, in air conditioned luxury. The Range Rover may be bigger, but I like the LR3’s kiddie seats. Why deny the sprogs a chance to see Daddy crease the family toy?
Gaaah! I had a brain fart in my earlier post…
I meant to write Cadillac CTS, more specifically the CTS-V. Which would have the same drivetrain as the 05-06 GTO.
Sorry for the confusion blautens, the STS is nice, but really way more car than I’d want.
BTW, I did specify the 05-06 GTO which would have the LS2. If you gave me the 350 HP 2004 model, I wouldn’t complain, though…
1. Corvette C6 Z06 – Performance of a Lambo for a 1/3 of the price
2. Celica GTS (ZZT231) – Entry level performance with excellent handling and body
3. CTS- V – 4 Door Vette
4. Lancer Evolution – AWD, turbo @ 19psi, 4drs. Any better?
Here’s a list of four, off the top of my head (in no particular order of rating):
1937 Cord 812 phaeton, 1971 Volvo 144E sedan, 1998 Porsche Boxster and the 2006 Pontiac Solstice. The Volvo is there as a good grocery getter and it has to have a four-speed manual behind that B20 four-cylinder engine, to remind you just exactly how hard you have to row an old boat to get it to go – sometimes.
On second thought, drop the Solstice off my list of four – it’s still an all right ride – for the Honda 2000 convertible – any vintage. Since I don’t know how to ride a motorcycle but really like them, the S2000 is my idea of what a four-wheeled motorcycle would be like (or is).
1) Subaru WRX Sport Wagon: I just need to get some cash together to really mod the hell out of the thing… 18″ wheels, lower-profile tires, XEDE chip from Vishnu Performance, Brembos, a few other pipes and flywheels and what not.
Even stock, however, this car is way more better in the fun department than a GTI — says me. Plus, it hauls more.
2) Boxster — I love that car
3) 997 Turbo — I haven’t driven it yet, but I got a hunch.
4) Cayenne Turbo S — that’s an SUV
1) CAV GT 40 – South African built clone of the originals. Preferably in the Gulf colours, just because. 427 with velocity stacks in the back window. Raucous, raw and dead-nuts sexy.
2) Mazda Miata with suspension goodies. Shoots thru cone courses like a pea through a garden hose
3) 1971 ‘Challenger – with a bumpstick so lumpy the spastic idle convinces bystanders the thing is gonna die at every stoplight (had a date pick me up last night in one, so I’m purely biased)))))))
4) TDI Twin-Turbo V10 Toaureg – 550 lb ft. of torque, leather la-Z-boys, a snorkel (you know, in case I have a river to ford on the way to work) and self levelling. Esuvee in an Armani suit.
Hah as a former car sales man I’ve driven a ton of different things, so here’s my list – only what I’ve driven.
Mid – Size Truck – Toyota Tacoma
full Size – Nissan Titan – yes some quality problems, but still beats GM/Ford/Dodge in my opinion. Horrendous fuel economy in real world driving.
Sedan – Acura TL, Nissan Maxima. A huge suprise honorable mention for a Lincoln LS V-8 (yes, really)
Wagon – To quote an earlier posting “Subaru Outback 2.5 turbo from 2005 with the manual tranny???game set and match. This car is the Gollden Retriever of the automotive world???a faithful friend up for anything you are, and then some.” This car was amazing to drive. Made me go I want one!!!
Hatchback – Honda Civic SIR (it’s called something different down in the US)
SUV – haven’t ever really found one that I dug. Pathfinder, 4Runner, Toureg, FX, Murano, any GM or Ford or Dodge SUV….I dunno. I like the Murano the best (still Japanese built) but as a segment it kinda makes me go blah. I am intrigued by the Porchse Cayman but haven’t ever driven one.
Cheers from a former Nissan Salesman.
I guess I’m “that guy”. You know what I mean. There’s always one jerk in every crowd…
While I can’t fault everyone for throwing the 3’s, the WRXs, the Porsches, the new VWs, etc., out there, it seems people are missing a basic one. Of course, this is where the “that guy” thing comes into play…I mean, hell, I like Jaguars so I must be some kinda A-hole, right?
But my by-far favorite is your basic Jeep Wrangler. ’99 TJ, 4.0L with a 5spd manny. Stripped down, 0 luxuries, zip-in plastic windows. Out of the box FUN. I can dig that everyone likes to go fast, and that’s cool. I can also dig that people like to put stuff in their cars and haul it from place to place. So, sure, the jeep is maybe deficient in those areas. But without any mods at all, I can get to 35 mph in 1st gear without hitting the red line. I can go from 40-70 in about 3.5 seconds in 3rd, again without red-lining. The car, with stock tires, can go up a 45 degree incline in sand. Snow? No problem. Driving in blizzards is fun! Sure, it sucks on gas (unless my wife is driving, go figure) but it’s got some serious zip, handles, corners & darts like a machine (better handling than many cars I’ve driven), fits into any parking space available AND if you’re mod-happy, the possibilities are endless. How can you say no?
Other than that:
I seriously dig on Cadillac DTS/Deville. It’s a hotel room on wheels…only thing missing is room service. Sweet, sweet ride, too. Northstar is no joke. Sure, it’s got all the agility of an ocean liner, but hell, you hit run over someone on a ten-speed and the only indication something happened is the blue lights flashing behind you.
Also, Jaguar S-type. Yeah. “That guy”. Sorry. Not sure why, but I love ’em. Still plenty of issues since Ford bought them, but at least the headlights work from time to time. Dear old Mom picked one up not long ago, and at family gatherings I can’t stop myself from grabbing the keys to ‘go pick something up at the supermarket’…the one two exits down the highway.
I was also a big fan of the early-mid 90’s Saabs. I had a 94 900SE with the GM, Oxford-built 2.5L V6. It had some issues, but it was my first (and only) semi-lux vehicle. I was pretty heartbroken when I had to put it to sleep, but it happens. You felt the bumps, but boy, it could go pretty good…
That’s all…I’ll let you serious car guys get back to it…love the comments y’all leave, usually quite enlightening : )
Cheers
Infamous
I usually want stuff I can drive on a regular basis. Ideally, one would have all four in the gararge ready to go. My list:
LR3 (with a diesel – a couple of years out)
Audi S-3 (again not yet available – here’s hoping)
Porsche 911
2007 Wrangler Rubicon, soft top
Johnny, you post over at NASIOC? Great resource for Subaru Impreza owners. The WRX is great value for the money. The real sleepers are the Foresters and Legacy GT Limiteds. Before the 2006 MY, they were the only other cars (if I remember correctly) with the 2.5L engine.
As for the VW GTI vs. TSX, I personally would not give the VW a chance. Reliability is not everything. Still, it is something.
I don’t mind buying an average-scored BMW 330. But out of the 30 or 40 brands, VW is about at the very bottom. It’s got to indicate something about VW. I won’t risk my life buying a VW, as vital safty features are now all controlled by electronics.
My favourites, in ascending price and desirability:
4)Mazda Miata
3)BMW Z4
2)Lexus GS
1)Porsche Cayman
why isn’t there a TTAC forum for stuff like this?
bunny, then you best give up on BMWs as well. They are just as susceptible to the electrical gremlins as VW.
I had my ECU go out in my 325Ci while driving. No turn signals, no speedometer, no tachometer, NOTHING. Fortunately the car did not die as I was doing 70 mph on the interstate. When I brought it into the shop they said it was the 6th car that month with a dead ECU.
My votes go for:
1) Chevy Corvette- For a daily driver I wouldn’t bother with the Z06, just get a six-speed coupe. The Z06 ride (whether the C5 or C6) is just too hard for everyday use. My C5 was a fantastic car which I drove winter and summer around the mid-west. Spoiled only by a nasty interior that escaped from a Geo and had no place in a 50k car, run-flat tyres that produced a brutal ride in the Chicago-winter cold and a gearbox that was a tad on the agricultural side.
2) Jaguar XJR- I loved my XJR but then I have always had a thing about Jags. A whopping great blower attached to a whopping great V8 but likely to go unnoticed by all but true Jag affectionado. Beautiful styling (if you like classic Jag looks) and only Jag make volume car interiors that elegant. Brute force and ignorance when you mash the go pedal. To this day I don’t think that big BMW’s handle as well as big Jags do (and certainly not the contemporaneous late 90’s models). Let down primarily by the size of the boot and the lack of rear legroom for such a physically big car.
3) Volvo 850 T5R Wagon- Did they sell these in the States? It was the perfect blend of Volvo practicality and insane performance. I seem to recall it could spin it’s wheels in 3rd, with a house worth of Ikea flatpack furniture in the back.
4) Mini (the real, original mini)- My then g/f (and now wife’s) Cooper S was a go-cart for the road. Ridiculous ergonomics, rusted as you watched and I am 6 foot 5 so it looked like I was driving a clown car. People used to point and laugh at me. Still I don’t think I have ever had more fun in a car that could barely struggle to 85 (and that was indicated).
1) Subaru WRX Wagon – A very useable car that is fast to boot.
2) Aston Martin DB9 – Drive it? That thing would be the centerpiece in my living room.
3) Hummer H1 Alpha – Make it a Fire Engine Red Wagon please.
4) Audi TT 3.2 w/ DSG – I can’t think of a better weekend sports car. (Well, that I can afford.)
I’ll assume that this should be my four favorite cars currently in production. Not easy for me, since most of today’s cars are great transportation but hard to truly love.
(Note that all mine are domestic makes. It’s ironic that only one could possibly have been made in America.)
1) Chrysler 300C. Hate on it all you want, but here’s one car that knows exactly what it is and is totally upfront about it. The first V8 RWD full-size sedan in 30 years that isn’t automatically dismissed as being strictly for retirees. Bonus points for the SRT-8 version.
2) Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor. I won’t buy a Ford product because my mother’s ’90 Escort burned to a crisp in 1994. You should know more: In 1996, Ford recalled virtually everything they made in the 80’s & early 90’s because their faulty ignition switches caused their cars to catch fire while parked, which is exactly what happened to the Escort – it was a total loss. When I contacted Ford after the story broke in the summer of ’96, they actually asked if I still had the car. Yeah, I always keep burned-out hunks of crap in the driveway hoping you might recall them someday. The frickin’ thing had probably gone to the crusher by then. I did have a brief video of the aftermath, but Ford basically told me they wouldn’t accept it, so I basically told them I’d slither on my belly naked through broken glass before I’d ever drive a Ford again. Nonetheless, I dig cop cars, and the Crown Vic in police trim is cool. Why they don’t give the cops the hi-po 5.4, or even the 4.6 Marauder engine, is beyond me.
3) Pontiac GTO. The ultimate sleeper – I WANT the poseurs in the Hondas and Subarus to think they’re getting whooped by a Grand Am. I’m sorry to see it go.
4) Chrysler Town & Country. Yes, a minivan, and the only one of this four that could possibly be American-made. It’s hands down the best overall value you can buy today. A torquey V6, true room for 7, smooth-riding, stylish in its own way, luxurious, and practical, all for around $30K. Once you’ve driven one on a long trip, you won’t want anything else. My boss traded in a Lexus RX330 for one and has no regrets.
Note that my daily driver, a 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee, a true Detroit-built vehicle, didn’t make my list. Yeah, I like it, but the 3.7 engine is a pig that offers nothing in return, and the cargo space is a joke.
It really is amazing how much you complain about GM/Ford/Chrysler not building “quality cars” or “well-built” cars and you are oh so witty about their shortcomings. So I would expect that when you talk about your four favorite cars, well….OBVIOUSLY you’re going to mention some high-quality cars that last, are dependable, and are fun to drive. Instead, you give us four German cars that are worth less than the scrap metal they become after their warranties run out. Unbelievable. P
1) Pontiac GTO. This one I own :-). It is absolutely the bomb. Torque out the wazoo. The handling and brakes match. Aussie build quality seems impeccable. This one outruns any of the classic Goats. There is nothing like the rumble of a V8, especially from a 400 HP LS2. And 24 highway MPG to boot!
2) Chevrolet Avalanche, own this one too :-). Handier than a Swiss Army Knife. Seats 5 quite comfortably, and swallows about anything from Home Depot. Say what you will about the body cladding, but it’s saved me from countless dings and dents. Only shortcoming is the dated interior styling and content, but that seems to have been fixed with the 2007 models. Be sure to lose the crappy stock Goodyear tires ASAP and replace them with Bridgestones.
3) Honda Accord V6 MT sedan. Honda finally mated a 6-speed to their 4-door V6 model. The 3.0L V6 is a fantastic precision piece that zips to redline in short order (still doesn’t have the sound, see above). Typically impeccable quality. A bit lacking in the handling department, but nothing the aftermarket can’t fix. Short of a Bimmer, it’s the best bet in family transportation for the driving enthusiast.
4) BMW M3 Cabriolet: I can dream, can’t I? Anyone care to loan me 60 large?
Funny how that was the first mention of the Honda Accord…as a former (and probably future) Honda owner, I wonder if that’s the curse of Honda – to build excellent machinery that very few lust after.
1. Mini Cooper S. I bought one, I bought a second, now I’m contemplating buying a third. A GTI without two lard-arsed linemen in the back, from a weight standpoint.
2. Subaru WRX. Not an STi. Just give me one in black, sans wing, without the gold wheels. Less attractive than Andrea Dworkin in a mumu but a blast to drive.
3. BMW M Coupe. Why wasn’t this the first of the Bangle-era cars? Suddenly, like one of those paintings one needs to stare at for two minutes to see the picture, everything resolves into a coherent image. Plus I could just about afford it too, if Idid without non-essentials like food and clothes.
4. Bentley Arnage. Something in my wants a big, imperious, “out of my way, little man” sort of car.
There are a few cars that I have hanker for:
1. A 1974 Paykan Javanan, my fathers first car, one that he still talks about. And of course with the required aftermarket foglights to draw the ‘veemen.’ His words not mine.
2. A Pagani Zonda F, in grapfruit orange with the blood red interior. An edifice to money, garishness coupled to an instument panel to please a Swiss watchmaker.
3. 2002 BMW M3 CSL. Less is more, and costs more, and is still worth it.
4. 1999 Honda Integra type-R with a vtec controller, and only the front seats left in the car, the most fun to be had in a wrong wheel drive car.
(though the Integra may be called an Acura-whatzit in America)
A hanker for?
yes I really was that exited to write about them.
Though I haven’t driven most of these cars, they are the ones that I would want (and may realistically drive one day):
In no particular order:
1) Honda S2000 – I love high-revving engines mated to RWD platforms. I know there are faster cars for the money, and I don’t care that it lacks torque – all that will be forgotten when I hear the 4-banger screaming towards 8,000 rpm.
2) Mazda MX-5 – Ok, I have a thing for small, affordable, RWD convertibles. Why this over the Solstice/Sky? Because I hear it’s a better driving experience, and that’s what I’m all about.
3) Porsche Boxster S – I’ve just heard too many good things about this one to pass it up.
4) Mitsubishi Lancer Evo IX – Pure sports car euphoria – in a 4-door sedan!
The next car I own will either be an MX-5 or an S2000 (or whatever its replacement may be).
Hmm.. four Favourite cars:
If we’re talking about available in America by legal means:
In no particular order:
1) Lotus Elise – A Proper sports car. Forget the whole ‘merican “no replacement for displacement” bull. There is no replacement for a well designed/balanced lightweight chassis. Ridiculously light by modern standards, with a free reving engine good for quick launching, quicker stopping and razor sharp cornering.
2) Volkswagen Westfalia Syncro – By far the most practical (yet enjoyable) of all MPV’s. Rear engine, Rear Wheel Drive, available with a standard gearbox (great low first). Common engine conversions (if desired) are from Porsche 911’s and Subaru WRX STIs. They’re all flat/boxers. Quiet ride, cavernous space inside. Ugly as a cinder block externally, but a true 4×4 beast in all weather conditions .
3) 1983 MkI Golf GTI (Rabbit) – What more can be said. For a front engined, front wheel driver, this was a wonderful lightweight euro hatch which defined what a hothatch is and was. The new MkV GTI is wonderful as well, but it lacks the road feel, and light weight of the original, even with double the power and the silky smooth DSG.
4) Mid Eighties Renault 5 GT2 – Le Car on Steroids. All of the great benefits shared with the Lotus mentioned above and the aforementioned MkI Golf GTI combined. Very light weight, 88kw (120ps) 1.4l OHV free-reving Garrett T2 turbo charged engine. Technically it’s bloodline as a hot hatch predates the Mk1 Golf GTI by almost 5 years in Europe.
my 94 buick roadie wagon was a fun ride…great trip car, good (24mpg) trip mileage, that LT-1 was so awesome i also bought a 94 cad brougham (which i absolutely love) with the same motor (both are major future collectibles.) also have to give kudos for the tacoma, my 2003 is my 3rd toyota pickup and you cannot kill them, and they do go everywhere. hate the new one tho, it’s WAY TOO BIG. had a bmw 540i that was a great drive but terrible ownership proposition…far too many (expensive) things went wrong and the dealers are unreconstructed nazis. next tried an acura tl (2000) looked good on paper but car bored me to death. scuttlebutt is that their auto trannies are crap (mine was rebuilt under warranty). looking for a new daily driver (has to be 4 drs) and i like the acura tsx but it is kinda cramped and lotsa roadnoise. kinda like the looks of the fusion, maybe i’ll have to drive one. or the new golf (oops, sorry, rabbit) or jetta, i have always been fascinated by 5 cyl engines and their weird warble.
Hey pswillb!
My ’95 Roadmaster is a blast. Lots of fun to watch the ricers cringe when they get so thoroughly trounced by a “grannymmobile”! HA!
Can’t agree on the Toyota pickup, though. I (briefly ) owned one (a 1991 model) in 1998, and it was the WORST truck I’ve ever owned! Cramped, underpowered, and unreliable. It blew its engine (slung rod) at 62,000 miles due to a failed oil pump and the fact that the previous owner had disconnected the warning light (no gauges in the cheap model) to mask the problem. The D*** thing cost me $4000.00 to repair. I unloaded it, and will never stray from Chevy trucks again!
I remain positively amazed at the number of posters here that profess to lust after the German-produced cars, even though they will nickle and dime you to death. And, most of their nickle and dime stuff is at least five times the price of the equivalent American part.
My 4, in no particular order:
1. E46 M3.
My current ride, not much to hate about it. Some considers it the best combination of style/performance put out by pre-banglized BMW. I love the way the engine revs, and revs, and revs.
2. Mazda Miata/MX5 (second generation)
It’s a bona fide roadster. Lightweight, fast, handles well, looks good, and top can be truly operated with one hand. A yellow one would complete the image.
3. E39 M5
The ultimate family sedan? I think so.
4. 360 Modena or DB9
I’ve not driven either, but they look gorgeous and are well-put together. They will be classics.
Anything over 400hp is way too much.
A follow up…
1.a. I wouldn’t mind trading in my M3 for the new M Coupe. Same engine, same sound, just as rev-happy, but slimmer and prettier.
And it handles WELL! Even compared to the M3.
List like these are always subject, particularly when there are no restrictions, but here goes:
1) Golf GTI 4 door: This car just hits all the right points: affordable, fun, practical, good gas mileage, DSG. Few cars make this much sense.
2) Chrysler 300C: it may not be a great car, but Detroit deserves recognition for finally producing a good looking car that actually is a good car.
3) Lotus Elise: Probably the best “pure” sports car available and a reminder of so many things a sports car should be. A reminder that most of the cars we love need to go on a diet and all the fancy gadgetry doesn’t necessarily make for a better car.
4) New Audi TT/S3: Pricing isn’t public for the TT and the S3 may never make it to US shores, but at least one variation of the TT will likely be under $40k and most will be under $50k; the S3 will almost certainly be under $50k as well if it makes it here. Porsche makes some great cars, but true motoring pleasure shouldn’t have to begin at $50-60k plus.
right, this sounds fun
1. toyota landcruiser 70 series. with the diesel. i know its not that fast but you can thrash it to hell and it will keep up. also the low end torque makes for some exiting driving. or mabe a hsv marloo, arguably the best drift/burnout vehicle in the world. all that power and no weight on the back end.
2. M3. never been one but i like the sound of it.
3. perhaps a comodore ss. im not so sure. i could cheat and say i want the 70 series wagon
4. rolls drophead. i now its no sedan but its big and luxury, plus if you live where i do you have to take advantage.