Fast, Fun Car...

I currently own a BMW M Roadster, and I am looking to sell it and get a new vehicle. I also own a Prelude, so I have another car, while I am looking for a new one.
Im wondering which car here offers the best value of fun, styling, performance, and plain luxury in one package?
Here are the cars I have researched a little and like alot.

Infiniti G35 Coupe
Audi RS6
Lexus SC 430
Cadillac XLR
Mercedes AMG CLK55
and the Chevrolet Corvette C6 Convertible coming out soon.

Personally, I fell in love with that Corvette, when I saw it, and Im almost willing to wait for it to come out. Cheaper than most of the above, quicker than all of them, except maybe the RS6? I've driven the current C5 Vette, and I was impressed with it. The C6 though, seems to have covered all the issues I have found. The road noise, comfortablility, and the cheapness of the interior altogether.

I'd like to hear any opinions, or even any other cars I may have overlooked, in my searching. Thanks.

In terms of driving ability the Lexus is completely outclassed within this group.

The RS6 and CLK55 are both extremely fast but lacking in the involvement factor. Im not a massive fan of the C6's styling but there's no doubt it will be great VFM and offer a rawer driving proposition than the other cars you're considering. Note that we didnt get the XLR in the UK, so i know roughly zilch about it.

Other alternatives? A 911 GT3 would be far and away my #1 choice. And ive always liked the Maserati 3200GT, it'd make a good cruiser

i say get the g35. i love the new g32, for one it is closely related to the 350z. i think that the c6 and g35 is tied in styling, and the g35 is cheaper than the c6. also, if you want a little bit of luxury, the g35 will have quite a bit of luxury in it.

"A 911 GT3 would be far and away my #1 choice. And ive always liked the Maserati 3200GT, it'd make a good cruiser."
- Ive heard a bit about the GT3, and its supposed to be a hell of a vehicle. Whats the price range? Also I'm not sure I want a car purely for the performance.. Is there a convertible? What is the interior like on the GT3's?
-To be honest, besides hearing about Maserati's in old rock songs, I know nothing about them, and will look into that 3200 GT.. Thanks for the help.
-The Lexus, was on the low end of my wish list as it was, but I wasnt sure what kind of feedback it was getting.
-The G35 I think is arguably the best car for 35k or below from what I have seen. Such a great combination of luxury, power and it looks great. Yet, I am able to afford a bit more, which is why I am considering other vehicles at all.
-Does anyone have any feedback on the XLR? Any other ups or downs to any of these vehicles?

I dont know about the price range for GT3's as i suspect you're in the US and im in the UK. What i can tell you about GT3's is that they're very raw, and you may not be willing to put up with the hard ride if youre going to use it as a daily driver. The GT3 is strictly coupe only, and the interior is spartan. Often described as the greatest 911 of all time, GT3's are phenomenal driving machines, and a very liquid investment, so it may be worth owning one for say, 6 months, after which you'd be able to resell it very easily. Personally i could live with just that car for the rest of my life.

The 3200GT is an achingly pretty car, however the active "Skyhook" suspension is flawed and doesnt make it the most rewarding car to push.

If you dont want a car purely for performance, you should consider the Jaguar XKR, Merc SL, BMW 6-series, 996C2, there are a lot of options out there.
But my view is: if you can afford a GT3, get one. You'd be one of the lucky few to experience it. Touch greatness and pass it on a few months later. Then get a softer GT.

The car I buy doesnt have to be my daily driver. I have a 2000 Prelude SH (with only 7,800 miles on it, that I am looking to seriously upgrade) to use as a daily driver. The M Roadster is still in my possession, and the only reason I will sell it to be honest is because I dont think I need 3 cars. The Roadster was purchased in Germany, and imported in France. Just moved to the states finally from France. So now that I have a house and I am settled in, Im looking to make my little world fun.
I will admit you really have me considering the GT3.. It runs for about 100k, U.S. Its definately a beautiful machine. Money, really isnt an issue, any limits I place on the vehicles I buy are self-imposed. I'm not really one to spend money, even if I have it.. One of the reasons I have always invested so well. ;) You ever considered selling Porsches? You seem to have a passion for them. The GT3 seems to be alot more sophisticated of a driver than a cost compared Viper, even if its a bit less on the performance scale. The Viper though is simply too much of a car for me. The only problem I see is obtaining a GT3.. I will have to look into it and put availability into my consideration.
-The 3200 is a beautiful car, but I can't seem to find a price range for it anywhere.
-I dont like the Jaguar. Never really have been impressed with them.
-The SL is beautiful, but I have had bad experiences with the one Mercedes I had. (SLK 320)
-I dont like the styling of the 6 - Series to be honest. I like the previous styling..
-I like the GT3 better than the 996. Just looks so much hotter.
You are alot of help though! Really appreciate it.

if you are saying that price isnt an issue and you want a fun raw car, i would look into getting a Ferrari F-360 Challenge Stradale. i have seen comparisons between the stradale and the gt3 and the stradale almost always pulled ahead. but the stradale will take an extra $100,000 than the gt3. but with that extra money you are buying a more beautiful maching imo and a ferrari. now only if i had that much money.

While price isnt an option, I just dont really wish to spend that much on a vehicle. Ferrari's will always be awesome cars, but theres no reason to spend that much on a car, in my own opinion. 100k is steep as it is, but the pleasure remains, without making me twitch at the thought of a crash. :)

out of the 6 I would go with the G35. It my mind it's a great looking car plus it's quick and luxurious. But I have to agree with Freak, I love Ferrari's

While price isnt an option, I just dont really wish to spend that much on a vehicle. Ferrari's will always be awesome cars, but theres no reason to spend that much on a car, in my own opinion. 100k is steep as it is, but the pleasure remains, without making me twitch at the thought of a crash. :)

the other suggestion i have is get the f-360 modena. its about the same price as the gt3. the modena is a little bit slower than the gt3 and maybe not as raw, but like i said before, it is a ferrari and is just so beautiful. i have a huge passion for ferrari, so i ferrari is involved or can be involved, im there all the way.

Well if you would like a driving experience about as pure as it gets the GT3 is a perfect choice and much better deal than the double priced Stradalle.

However if you would like to cruise a bit more relaxed I would recomend an Aston Martin DB9 - if British style and elegance is your thing, or a Modena if you preffer Italian passion.

the other suggestion i have is get the f-360 modena. its about the same price as the gt3. the modena is a little bit slower than the gt3 and maybe not as raw, but like i said before, it is a ferrari and is just so beautiful. i have a huge passion for ferrari, so i ferrari is involved or can be involved, im there all the way.
Not to lessen the Ferrari in any way, but I have been looking through all kinds of information on the GT3, and I've really fallen in love with it...Its absolutely beautiful, and seems to be one hell of a driving machine. The three cars that hold interest for me now at this point are the GT3, the up and coming C6 Convertible, and the G35. I might actually end up buying the GT3 and selling it again later, when the Corvette comes out. I kind of view the GT3 as a love affair, and the Corvette as a longterm love. The G35 seems like an outstanding car to drive around every day in comfort and style. With enough boom to floor it at the stoplight when the nearest Civic revs at you... (They seem to like doing that iwhen I am in my Prelude) ;)

The car I buy doesnt have to be my daily driver. I have a 2000 Prelude SH (with only 7,800 miles on it, that I am looking to seriously upgrade) to use as a daily driver. The M Roadster is still in my possession, and the only reason I will sell it to be honest is because I dont think I need 3 cars. The Roadster was purchased in Germany, and imported in France. Just moved to the states finally from France. So now that I have a house and I am settled in, Im looking to make my little world fun.
I will admit you really have me considering the GT3.. It runs for about 100k, U.S. Its definately a beautiful machine. Money, really isnt an issue, any limits I place on the vehicles I buy are self-imposed. I'm not really one to spend money, even if I have it.. One of the reasons I have always invested so well. ;) You ever considered selling Porsches? You seem to have a passion for them. The GT3 seems to be alot more sophisticated of a driver than a cost compared Viper, even if its a bit less on the performance scale. The Viper though is simply too much of a car for me. The only problem I see is obtaining a GT3.. I will have to look into it and put availability into my consideration.
-The 3200 is a beautiful car, but I can't seem to find a price range for it anywhere.
-I dont like the Jaguar. Never really have been impressed with them.
-The SL is beautiful, but I have had bad experiences with the one Mercedes I had. (SLK 320)
-I dont like the styling of the 6 - Series to be honest. I like the previous styling..
-I like the GT3 better than the 996. Just looks so much hotter.
You are alot of help though! Really appreciate it.
You're very welcome :)

I do indeed have a passion for Porsche's, i got to frequently ride in 928's and 964's when i was young and i've just loved Porsche's ever since. Even tried to sneak out the 964 when i was about 14, but got caught in the act. Why are those boxer engines so damned loud :grinno:

I've never really considered selling cars, i'd much rather work myself into a position where i can own them. I've probably got enough for a deposit on a GT3 but to say it would stretch me financially is an understatement :icon16:

Back to your dilemma. The 360 Challenge Stradale is a great car, but from most tests ive seen / read it can barely keep its nose ahead of the GT3 (and sometimes not) despite all the extra power and lower mass. And the 360CS is really too loud. Dont get me wrong, Ferrari's sound incredible, but this one is just too loud. Ridiculously so.
My esteemed colleague Neutrino's recommendation of a DB9 is also very wise. Superb styling inside and out, and hey, you cant argue with the Aston Martin badge either.

Here's a pic of the GT3 interior. It really leaves you in no doubt as to what the thing was built for. If you decide to go with the GT3, it would be a whirlwind affair ;)

http://members.rennlist.com/ajs993/White_GT3_Interior.jpg

Good luck with whatever you decide to buy, and do let us know :)

Not to lessen the Ferrari in any way, but I have been looking through all kinds of information on the GT3, and I've really fallen in love with it...Its absolutely beautiful, and seems to be one hell of a driving machine. The three cars that hold interest for me now at this point are the GT3, the up and coming C6 Convertible, and the G35. I might actually end up buying the GT3 and selling it again later, when the Corvette comes out. I kind of view the GT3 as a love affair, and the Corvette as a longterm love. The G35 seems like an outstanding car to drive around every day in comfort and style. With enough boom to floor it at the stoplight when the nearest Civic revs at you... (They seem to like doing that iwhen I am in my Prelude) ;)

the gt3 is a wonderful maching. if it is a car that i have to get besides the 360 it would be the gt3. that is a good idea, have the gt3 for a little while, then sell it and get the g35 or c6.

if you are willing to pay the extra money then you wont have more fun with any car than a GT3, although whether to go Mk.1 or Mk.2 might be debatable.

Have you though about a Gallardo, they are fine cars too.

When it comes down to these cars that are all so beautiful and quick, it starts to come down to preference of style and opinion. Im not too partial to the styling of the powerful Lamborghini, or the elegance of the Ferrari. I think the Porsche just seems to have the perfect blend of raw beauty, sheer power, and screams of a love affair with the road and the GT3...and me. :) At this point, I am almost ready to try and find a GT3 to own, and have my own peice of the greatness for awhile. In the meantime, I decided to keep my Prelude, and see what I can do as far as modifying it. For some reason I am really attached to the cute little car.
So knowing I will get be looking for the GT3.

Is there a vehicle more suited to everyday driving than the G35 that blends the luxury, comfort, performance, speed and fun? No one seems to think anything but the Vette compares with it, out of the ones I want. Anyone have any thoughts on the XLR, CLK55, or RS6? (I heard its impossible to get the RS6 though?)

Ok.. also.. Help. Where the heck am I supposed to find a GT3... 750 or so in the U.S. is what I have read. Its not looking like odds are in my favor of finding one.. Any ideas of places I can find one online? There are none in any Colorado Porsche dealerships that I can find. Any help there?

a more sporty alternative to the g35 is the nissan 350z. but with the more performance, comes a little bit less luxury. but after having the gt3 for a few months, the 350z will probably feel like heaven in terms of comfort.

i found two gt3's for sell in the united states. here are the links to them. http://www.cars.com/search/used/cc/standard/results/single/ld/detail.jhtml?paId=142265358&aff=national&src=&cid=&row=48 http://www.cars.com/search/used/cc/standard/results/single/ld/detail.jhtml?paId=143287502&aff=national&src=&cid=&row=72

Not that there's anything wrong with Porsche's 'standard' brakes, but the first GT3 of the two linked to above has fade-free PCCB (porsche ceramic composite brakes). Recognisable by the yellow calipers vs the standard reds.

Not that there's anything wrong with Porsche's 'standard' brakes, but the first GT3 of the two linked to above has fade-free PCCB (porsche ceramic composite brakes). Recognisable by the yellow calipers vs the standard reds.


Now that I look again there is a slight hint of yellow inside the spokes.


I would love to have ceramic brakes. As good as nomal brakes are ceremics are lightyears ahead. There is nothing like constant braking in club racing, autox, or even coming down a mountain with no overheating or fading.

having those brakes could probably give me another sec on an Autox course. Well i can only dream

Another second? Porsche's standard brakes are the best in the business and would give you another second. The ceramic ones would give you two ;)

Another second? Porsche's standard brakes are the best in the business and would give you another second. The ceramic ones would give you two ;)


best in the business hardly. The best in the business is me sticking my foot out the door and braking.

Nike>Brembo :icon16:

nah man, u wanna try teh adidas sneakers. best in da buzniz yo

ps. did anyone watch 5th Gear last night? It had Tiff Needell caning a GT3 around a track versus a Gazelle, a 500bhp 190mph helicopter that's said to be the most agile helicopter there is. Tiff (just) won the race, but nearly threw it all away on the final corner. The GT3 can bite ;)

nah man, u wanna try teh adidas sneakers. best in da buzniz yo


Well its true the adidas have good brake feel and excellent intial bite but the adiprene compund they use fades too fast.

lol, this is getting way off topic :iceslolan I'd go for the vette anyway, no contest. I wouldn't feel right thrashing and killing a porsche even if i could afford it, but a vette, now thats a machine that needs to be thrashed :biggrin:

besides, for the price of a GT3 you could get a twin turbo 750hp lingenfelter corvette that runs 9s in the 1/4 mile.

Ooh, Very convenient. I have to head to Burbank, California next week for business. Its right next door to Pasadena, where the GT3 with the ceramic breaks is at. I can't believe that such an awesome vehicle is almost at the touch of my fingertips. It also has less mileage than the other one in IL.
The Corvette is a wonderful car, yet Im interested in the GT3 for the overall driving experience it seems to offer. Its also insanely beautiful if you ask me. The Porsche is driving purity at its finest, I think. However I am probably going to get a C6 when I sell the Porsche anyways. :) You sound like my boyfriend though, he told me.. for 100 grand you send the Vette to Lingenfelter and nothing will touch it! Im not all about the track numbers only though. :)

Ooh, Very convenient. I have to head to Burbank, California next week for business. Its right next door to Pasadena, where the GT3 with the ceramic breaks is at. I can't believe that such an awesome vehicle is almost at the touch of my fingertips. It also has less mileage than the other one in IL.
The Corvette is a wonderful car, yet Im interested in the GT3 for the overall driving experience it seems to offer. Its also insanely beautiful if you ask me. The Porsche is driving purity at its finest, I think. However I am probably going to get a C6 when I sell the Porsche anyways. :) You sound like my boyfriend though, he told me.. for 100 grand you send the Vette to Lingenfelter and nothing will touch it! Im not all about the track numbers only though. :)


It would absolutely fantastic if you would get a GT3. And remember anyone with money heard about and bought cars like viper, regular modena, or even a regular 911 to impress everybody else.(Not that there is anything wrong with these machines but they are a bit of a fad)

However a 911 GT3 is NOT a run of the mill Porsche that screams look at me I have money. It’s much more than that: It is a car that only a car connoisseur would truly appreciate. And that is class.

In my opinion that elevates it quite a bit more.

Very classy and extremely desirable. My colleague's just ordered one and im envious beyond belief :chair:







bastard

i have only seen one modena in my whole life so the modena isnt really a "fad" to me. but i do see a lot of 911's (in fact, i have driven one, hell yeah, drive a 911 at the age of 16!!!), so when i see one, im just like cool, but when i saw a gt2, i shat my pants.

The Corvette is sweet. Out of the options you listed, its definately got the style, the performance, and the fun down. The luxury is either Caddy or the very impressive G35. Thats a very smooth ride. That GT3 is something else entirely though. Its a car that is an experience in itself. If you can afford that, it would be the car I would choose for 100K+. Porsches may not overpower the Corvette, or even outperform them by a great deal, if at all for the price... But they are definately one hell of a driving experience, and that GT3 is a prime example. You definately hit the mark if you plan on selling GT3 eventually and owning both the Vette and the G35.. Talk about a dream come true for us poor people, lol.

go for the vette

The price range of your cars kinda varies. I think u can buy 2 G35s with money left over for the price of the RS6.

Im suprised nobodys mentioned the Viper. Not my favorite car but it is loved by many.

They'll come out with a Z06 version of the C6, and that simply must kick ass.

If the GT3 is a little steep in price, just a regular 911 Carrera would be a little closer to the price of the RS6.

It'll be over a year from now, but the BMW M5 is coming with a 500bhp V10 and a 7 speed SMG transmission, combined with the great interior of the new 5 series making it the best sub $100,000 car out there. Only possible problem is the Chris Bangle styling (damn that guy). The six series has also just come out, and is supposed to be pretty good.

Sorry if i made this even more complicated