First post. I'm 58 and grew up in the cradle of hot-rodding civilization: California. I've been a small car enthusiast since I started driving back in 1963. What's my point? This year, I'll have about 17 to 20 grand in cash to buy my latest small car and I am soliciting opinions on what to buy. Here's my short-list:

Honda Civic SI
Mazda 3
Hyundai Tiburon V-6
Ford Focus SVT or PZEV
Nissan SER Spec-V
Mini Cooper S
Mitsubishi Lancer
Accura RSX type S
Dodge SRT-4 (yikes!)

I'm really thrilled with this current crop of compact performance cars and aim to participate in the fun.

My requirements? Sharp looks, 5 or 6-speed, good handling, power/acceleration, reliability, good gas mileage, a modicum of comfort, everyday driveability, and I plan to keep it pretty much box-stock.

My current favorites? Ford Focus SVT, Nissan Spec-V.

You who own one of these on the list.....what do YOU think?

Thanks for your responses in advance.

Best wishes, Jeff the "ledfut"

SRT4!!!! (is the lancer a evo?) if it is get it

Cooper S or SRT4

Get the srt4 if sheer power is what you want most. Just be aware that its gas mileage depends 100% on you right foot. Push it to the metal and it will act like a big v8 with corespondig power ofcourse. But stay off boost and it will be an econo 4 banger.


For handling I belive out of the box the best choices are the focus SVT and the cooper S. (out of those two I belive the edge in acceleration goes to the S)

the RSX type S should follow the srt4 in acceleration, and also follow the SVT and cooper in handling.

I think I can clarify what I'm looking for by saying "best bang for the buck at under $20,000, if possible. I've driven the Spec-V and really-really like that one. I have grandchildren and a 4 door would be handy when hauling them around in their carseats. (not to mention the thrill of their life when ol' grampa puts his foot into it!)

I also drove the Ford Focus ZRX and like it too. Great ergonomics and one of the better-looking 3-door hatchbacks yet.

I guess I'm looking for that "balance" of style, power, handling, fuel efficiency, and comfort....all wrapped up in the right package. I like my chances because there is a glut of really fine small performance cars out there.

Best Wishes,
Jeff the "Ledfut"

Well the best thing is to try them all. But if you liked the trill when you put your foot down in the specV then do go and testdrive an srt4. it will be like the sentra but 10X more fun. Its torque band its just phenomenal.

I think the SRT-4 is going to give you the best performance, hands down. Nothing for 20k will give you better at the moment.
Yet, I dont think it looks as sharp as some of the others.
The Lancer if it isnt the Evolution, is a dud. EVERYONE has a civic, The Focus is ugly, IMO, Mazda 3 isnt too bad of a car.

The Acura RSX is a really nice car, and looks really nice as well.
The Nissan is also a mover, and pretty nice bang for the buck. It looks better than the SRT-4, even if its less of a performer.
To me, though, I prefer the Tiburon. Its got some pretty nice bang in the performance and handling sides of the spectrum, and its in my opinion the most beautiful car on here.

does it have to be a new car? because i mean you can build some pretty nice cars for $20,000 cash.