I am looking into getting a new car and I want to make sure this time I get the best vehicle I can get for the money. I am looking to spend anywhere from 18 to 28 thousand, but the cheaper the better. Cars I was already looking at include the Nissan SE-R Spec V, Toyota MR2, Subaru WRX STi, or an Acura RSX Type S. Any thoughts? I really like the the MR2's suspension and the VVTL engine because I was also looking into the new Lotus Elise. $39,985 is a bit too much for me. Any intelligent input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

Well you're looking at cars that are in completely different ballparks

I don't really know what you want us to compare, the other cars will beat out the sentra in every way possible, then again they cost a helluva lot more. The STI for example is over twice as expensive as the Spec.

Ranging from a Sentra to a Lotus?

Also, the RSX has i-VTEC, and that's better than VVTL-i. If you are thinking of getting the new MR2, I say no. The Sentras aren't that great either - bad brakes, many owners hate them, etc. Out of those three I'd take the STi (or wait until the Ralliart Evolution/Evolution MR come out).

The thing is, what are you look for? A SE-R is completely different from a lotus....speed only, reliabiliy, resale value, looks, practicality, repair costs, etc. There are so many factors and you're choosing such a wide spectrum of car ou can't really give a good judgement.

I know the major differences between those cars. I know the SE-R would be the cheapest route, but if its cheap for a reason then I would rather spend the money to get something better. Next from there the RSX I could get away with spending 22 grand. The V-TEC is a good thing. The MR2 is lighter and mid engine. The VVTL-i is a more durable engine then the V-Tec. Then the WRX is 31 thousand dollars. I'm trying to stay away from that. Its more or less a wish. Another thing I was looking for were some alternatives to what I have already thought about. If there is another car that you guys think I would like based on the cars I have been thinking of, let me know.

I was actually leaning more toward the MR2. What factors make the V-TEC better than the VVTL? MR2 is Mid-Engine with better suspension. Handling will be a lot better. The engine is also a lot lighter, as well as the rest of the car.

For up to $28k, you should be looking at the WRX, not the STi.

Check out this page; you can compare cars' features side-by-side.
http://www.autotrader.com/research/compare/index.jtmpl?restype=new

What about an SRT-4? Good bang for your buck there.

I'd look at the Mazdaspeed Miata over the MR2 almost anyday. Its got a similar price, but is 2x as fun.

Dont look at a STi, look at the WRX.

The RSX-S is a great blend of speed and luxury for the price. I love its handling.

I've test drove the SE-R and I wasnt impressed at all.

Also look into a used BMW 323, 325, 328, or 330i, or Ci; all great cars that u should be able to find fairly new (1999+) for a decent price.

Not that it matters but, man I love the Lotus.

Go test drive an 02 - 03 Jag X-Type with a 5 speed manual and 3 liter 227HP engine. Should easily be in your price range. Its quick and corners like it's on rails with AWD. Get one used from a dealer and you've got a 100K mile factory backed warranty as well.

Just my 2 cents:
Oldengineer