Quote:
Originally Posted by devster18
I'm looking for a used car to replace my very unreliable 2000 beetle. I'm looking for something that's fairly reliable, decent gas mileage, relatively low maintenance costs, goes ok in the snow and not too boring. Decent performance is a plus too because once in awhile I like to wind out the gears or have some fun on country roads. I'd want this car too last me maybe 3-4 years so I can just get through school without having to worry too much.
I have a few cars in mind but I'd like to get other opinions also. So far I've looked at a 2002 nissan maxima, 2000-2002 Subaru forester, 2000ish Subaru legacy and that's about it. I like the maxima out of those 3 but I worry just a little bit about operating costs and maintenance. My budget is 4-6k but I could maybe stretch that a little bit for the right car.
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The Maxima is a great car and a solid choice, have you driven it? It will handle well, but if you are coming from a smaller car and expect it to be 'nimble', it may not be your ride. Unless you have a turbo engine, I think the Subaru's would let you down, and FWD is enough in the snowy weather anyways. If you were willing to sacrifice some space and opt for a 2-door, you might be able to find a 1997+ Honda Prelude, those were fantastic to drive. Also, you might be able to find an Acura CL coupe - they made a 2.3L I4 or the 3.0L V6, both an off-beat choice but a nice ride. Acura also made the Integra, a bit of a screamer but not shy on luxuries either.
Overall the best brands for used affordability and reliability are Nissan and Mazda, and all Mazda had for you in this age/price is the 626 ES (V6) sedan, and the MX-6 Mystere. The MX-6 was actually a good car, especially with the 3.0L V6, but again it's a coupe and I'm not sure if you're open to that or not. Nissan has the Maxima and Sentra SE-R Spec V, but the Maxima offers more car for the buck.
Another off-beat choice might be a Ford SVT Focus - it was a practical hatchback and handled like a GTI, plus made 170-hp without a turbo.