Need help thinking of a new car

[tgoodin]

I currently have a '95 Blazer and I'm now looking to upgrade. I'm willing to spend around 5,000 - 5,500 (can't spend more unfortunately). I want a car thats relatively quick, preferably a sedan, and I need it to be decent in the snow, and not boring. RWD doesn't worry me too much because I figure I can put some snow tires on it and be safe. Also, I'd prefer a car with a manumatic transmission. I've been looking at '00 - '02 Lincoln LS V8, '99 - '00 Lexus GS300, '99 - '01 Audi A4, etc. Any suggestions?

['97ventureowner]

Originally Posted by tgoodin

I want a car thats relatively quick, preferably a sedan, and I need it to be decent in the snow, and not boring. RWD doesn't worry me too much because I figure I can put some snow tires on it and be safe.Any suggestions?

I'm going to let Shpuker answer this one with some suggestions (He is the resident RWD specialist.) Shpuker you out there???

[tgoodin]

Well I was also looking at Volvo s60's and Saab 9-5's around the same years as the others too. So I'm not too pick about RWD, FWD, or AWD.

[Shpuker]

Originally Posted by '97ventureowner

I'm going to let Shpuker answer this one with some suggestions (He is the resident RWD specialist.) Shpuker you out there???

Hehehe very funny.

I'd say a late 90's BMW 325i

[akboss]

Be weary of repair costs when you get into premium foreign cars like BMW, Volvo and Lexus - you can fix a Blazer with any number of in-stock parts that are easy to come by - luxury cars not so much. Of the cars you mentioned I'd say the Lincoln LS is your best bet. The V6 was, as far as I know, quite reliable. Just try an get as late a model year as you can, I think the LS got a refresh in 2002.

If you want something comfortable and reliable, look also at an early Acura RL. They never sold well because they had a V6 when their competitors had V8's, but they were ultra reliable and because of the slow sales they are a great used-car value. Again, potentially expensive repairs, but a good car nonetheless.

What was Buick making at this price, maybe an older Park Avenue or LeSabre? The GM 3.8 is a worthy motor, but FWD. I've wanted to try a late-90's Regal GS with the supercharged 3.8, but never had the chance.

[Shpuker]

Meh I couldn't ever suggest any Acura. Heard and experienced nothing but problems