How Do You View Automobiles?

[GregoryJoseph]

When buying a car, do you merely look for a good combination of price and reliability or do you want a vehicle that looks good as well?

Do you view your ride as merely transportation to get you from point A to point B or is it a reflection of your personality?

[sailor]

i'm no car enthusiast, but i looked for a car that was fun to drive in addition to being affordable and efficient.

nothing look-at-me like a jeep or hummer or such.

[Charlie_Don't_Surf]

When buying a car, do you merely look for a good combination of price and reliability or do you want a vehicle that looks good as well?

Do you view your ride as merely transportation to get you from point A to point B or is it a reflection of your personality?

Reflection of personality.

Car enthusiast btw.

[Ritalin]

Cars are a burdensome necessity to be used, then stored and forgotten about - says the man who hasn't owned a car in 20 years. When I travel for work and rent a car, the first day or so is kind of fun, but by the end of a week I can't wait to give the car back and go home. I'm sure 99 percent of cannot possibly imagine not owning a car, but for me having to get in a car
and drive to work every day - or even to get a gallon of milk - is one of the outer rings of hell.

[sr71blackbird]

When I pick a car, I go by past experience with manufacturer as far as reliability and ease of service and quality of craftmanship is concerned. I observe models on the road, I peek in windows or ask people I see driving them. I check online reviews and consumer reports. Then, I look at the car itself. Will it suit me? Will I look like an ass in it? Is it practical? Can I put things in it without fear of them being visible and the car being broken into? Is there ample clearance below the car for snow and other terrain I might go over? Then, I touch the car. Does it feel solid or is it flimsy? Then I sit in it. I want to feel like I am sitting as high as possible. I don't like feeling like I'm sitting in a phone book. I picture a long ride and as myself if I'd feel comfortable.

[GregoryJoseph]

I've had my car for over three years now.

It's incredibly roomy, comfortable, gas efficient, reliable, has an amazing warranty...and yet, there is ZERO fun factor to it.

I want a car with a sporty feel, manual trans, but still has plenty of room for rear seat passengers and enough trunk space for the average adult.

Any suggestions?

[SatCam]

I've had my car for over three years now.

It's incredibly roomy, comfortable, gas efficient, reliable, has an amazing warranty...and yet, there is ZERO fun factor to it.

I want a car with a sporty feel, manual trans, but still has plenty of room for rear seat passengers and enough trunk space for the average adult.

Any suggestions?

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_D-pHGonSYyA/SgeBYxr6YVI/AAAAAAAABuE/86ZXzpci73U/s400/Homer+car.jpg

[booster11373]

A car is just a tool, fuel economy and reliability are my main concerns followed by space

[GregoryJoseph]

I think the Mazda 6 may be my only choice...

[sailor]

I think the Mazda 6 may be my only choice...

you got rid of your jeep? i thought that one was only like 2-3 years old and you got it for the fun factor. we've had a mazda3 for 4 years and it's great. i believe marc had the 6 a whiles back.

[Snoogans]

I think the Mazda 6 may be my only choice...

keep your hyundai

[GregoryJoseph]

you got rid of your jeep? i thought that one was only like 2-3 years old and you got it for the fun factor. we've had a mazda3 for 4 years and it's great. i believe marc had the 6 a whiles back.

I got rid of the Jeep over a year ago.

I loved it, but it's not practical for every day use and I'm only allowed 2 parking spots where I moved to. Obviously I need the work truck, and I knew my car was a much more logical choice for my other needs.

[~Katja~]

I am pretty sure you started a thread just like it before, Greg!

For me first is functionality combined with mpg and price, looks are secondary.

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[biggestmexi]

I think the Mazda 6 may be my only choice...

i thought you were looking for fun?

Buying or Leasing............:tongue:
Any way there is tons of four door manulas out there that have quit the pep in there step...

if you looking for NEW car, they will all have over 250hp nowadays...most 4 doors need that in order to get them not to feel like a slug.

look into the G*....good car and rather roomy.

or if your looking for new...you can check out the 05+ Grand prixs. they have good leg room in the back...AND you can get the sweet HUD display that even does nav...

or the grand prix GXP's or even a bonneville GXP for your more refined old person taste.

[TheMojoPin]

With my eyes, silly.

[JohnCharles]

I think the Mazda 6 may be my only choice...

While I love my Mazda 6 (2007), I have not found the current models to be all that great.

I had received an offer from the dealership to trade-in for a new Mazda 6 and get some incentives and money off the new model.

I took the test drive and was actually disappointed with the 09/10 models.

It was much more of a touring vehicle and I prefer a sportier, stiffer ride.

As for fuel economy - I know someone with the '09 4 cyl model. I average 5 mpg more than he does.

The car has taken on more of a bulky appearance resembling an Altima or an Accord.

I would recommend looking at a used 2008 model.

The other option I have considered was the Acura TSX but I don't know if I want to take on another car payment as I paid off my loan a couple weeks ago.

But to be fair, I was only paying 181.95/mo.

[Marc with a c]

I think the Mazda 6 may be my only choice...

i drive a mazda6.

[TheMojoPin]

i drive a mazda6.

You drive mikey wild.

[Suspect Chin]

I've had my car for over three years now.

It's incredibly roomy, comfortable, gas efficient, reliable, has an amazing warranty...and yet, there is ZERO fun factor to it.

I want a car with a sporty feel, manual trans, but still has plenty of room for rear seat passengers and enough trunk space for the average adult.

Any suggestions?

Cadillac CTS-V.

[Hottub]

I got lucky with my new car.
2008 Dodge Avenger. I picked it up used. It has a 2.7l 4 cyl.
Enough get up and go if needed, but just sips gas on the highway.
Roomy, large trunk and looks pretty cool, too.

http://z.about.com/d/alternativefuels/1/0/m/7/-/-/2008DodgeAvenger.jpg

[sr71blackbird]

Have you seen the new Camaro or the new Challengers?

[newport king]

http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_images/1/2963/3841/7406920003_large.jpg
bought this truck in 2004, (not the actual one in the pic) paid cash and haven't had a payment in 5+ years. Ive grown a little tired of it.

im currently torn between these 2.
http://cdn-www.rsportscars.com/images/subaru/2009-subaru-impreza-wrx-sti-330s/subaru-wrx-sti-330s-front-quarter.jpg
the STI
http://www.caradvice.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/tc-mr-open-2.jpg
and the EVO MR.

Initially i didn't like the new body style on the evo, but it has grown on me. Same can be said for the STi. I liked them both for what they were, but the new EVO in 2010 will be pushing 40,000+. Thats luxury car territory. Both are a blast to drive but i also feel these might be a little young for me. I'm very torn.

[underdog]

You should buy the STI and do this to it :

<object width="560" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/nTDNLUzjkpg&hl=en&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/nTDNLUzjkpg&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="560" height="340"></embed></object>

[newport king]

thats pretty funny. not trying to hijack this thread but you should check ken block's gymkhana videos pretty sweet.

[TheMojoPin]

thats pretty funny. not trying to hijack this thread but you should check ken block's gymkhana videos pretty sweet.

http://www.movieposter.com/posters/archive/main/6/A70-3160

[Don Stugots]

I think the Mazda 6 may be my only choice...

i like the 6. i got a Camry SE a month ago and it is smooth, quick and fun to drive.

[The Ogre]

I buy cars mostly for utility. I can't see floating a 500 per month payment on something i use to get to work and carry groceries. It has to be made by Honda, get good gas mileage, and be inexpensive. The payments I float for my wife's Element and my Fit are less than what most people are paying for one SUV.

[STC-Dub]

I like to have a vehicle that looks good to me. It doesn't have to be anything special, but I do not want to drive around in something I find repulsive.

[razorboy]

I buy Toyota trucks, and I love them like they were my children.

[Farmer Dave]

Don't know if it would fit all your criteria, but here it goes. VW Jetta TDI, I've not owned one, but people seem to love them. Don't be afraid of the diesel part, it would be the biggest part of me buying one. Outstanding mileage and longevity.

[sailor]

i believe marc had the 6 a whiles back.

i drive a mazda6.

i thought you got rid of that years ago.

[brettmojo]

Love my car. Wish I didn't need it.

[Marc with a c]

i thought you got rid of that years ago.

i thought about it, but i obviously didn't asshole.

[GregoryJoseph]

i drive a mazda6.

Auto or manual trans?

[sailor]

i thought about it, but i obviously didn't asshole.

hope you drive your softball team into a lake, nimrod.

[TooLowBrow]

How Do You View Automobiles?

with my eyes!!!:blink::lol::blink:

[FrogSlayer]

I have had my '90 Honda prelude Si since 93, and I will never sell it, It drives better than my mercedes. It needs a little work right now but it will be back on the road soon. I can honestly say I will never sell this car. It also is the first motor I ever rebuilt myself. I don't know what exactly it represents but it makes me feel younger when I drive it.

[Marc with a c]

Auto or manual trans?

i'm a standard fancy boy.

[GregoryJoseph]

i'm a standard fancy boy.

Figures...

[Marc with a c]

hope you drive your softball team into a lake, nimrod.

if i do i hope you're on a boat in that lake with your stupid socks and i smash right into you.

[biggirl]

i pick a vehicle depending on size and price. Then options. When we went to look at vans you would not believe that most of the vans only had heat and a/c up front by the driver...wtf...are the kids supposed to die of heat or hypothermia?

anyhow...the only "fun" thing about my van was the 6 cd changer otherwise it blows for fun factor. Can't wait to pick out the cool jeep or convertible when we have some extra cash.

[sailor]

if i do i hope you're on a boat in that lake with your stupid socks and i smash right into you.

how unwieldy was that sentence before you edited it?

[Marc with a c]

how unwieldy was that sentence before you edited it?

twasn't good.

[PapaBear]

I view automobiles with a C.

[boosterp]

Is it a Ford? Am I afraid to take it through the woods?

You won't see me do this often, but check this out Greg: Coupe that's fun to drive and affordable. (http://www.hyundaiusa.com/vehicle/GenesisCoupe/GenesisCoupe.aspx)

[Charlie_Don't_Surf]

i'm a standard fancy boy.

Figures...

This confuses me. You say standard, then you say fancy boy. WTF?


Anyway Mexi is stupid. I think someone mentioned the Impreza earlier and I would have to agree.

[joethebartender]

I've had my car for over three years now.

It's incredibly roomy, comfortable, gas efficient, reliable, has an amazing warranty...and yet, there is ZERO fun factor to it.

I want a car with a sporty feel, manual trans, but still has plenty of room for rear seat passengers and enough trunk space for the average adult.

Any suggestions?

I'm a vw/audi guy but a friend of mine got a sported up galant for about 23K...it's got all the shit you asking for. Check out the Subarus also. (a little more money but all wheel drive and a few fast ones).

[GregoryJoseph]

I love the suggestions, but remember that I also need a comfortable back seat for ADULTS.

Compact cars are out.

I'd love to have a Civic or Mazda3 or an Impreza, but I wouldn't dream of asking another couple to cram into the back while we drive up to the mountains or something like that.

[sailor]

I love the suggestions, but remember that I also need a comfortable back seat for ADULTS.

Compact cars are out.

I'd love to have a Civic or Mazda3 or an Impreza, but I wouldn't dream of asking another couple to cram into the back while we drive up to the mountains or something like that.

the 3 has surprisingly good leg-room front and back.

[boosterp]

I love the suggestions, but remember that I also need a comfortable back seat for ADULTS.

Compact cars are out.

I'd love to have a Civic or Mazda3 or an Impreza, but I wouldn't dream of asking another couple to cram into the back while we drive up to the mountains or something like that.

If you click my link youcan also go to road and track and find that is has a healthy amount of back seat.

[razorboy]

If you click my link youcan also go to road and track and find that is has a healthy amount of back seat.

Hot.

[drusilla]

I've had my car for over three years now.

It's incredibly roomy, comfortable, gas efficient, reliable, has an amazing warranty...and yet, there is ZERO fun factor to it.

I want a car with a sporty feel, manual trans, but still has plenty of room for rear seat passengers and enough trunk space for the average adult.

Any suggestions?

last year my mom got an 09 honda accord & i got an 09 mazda3. i think i test drove everything available last summer since she lost her vehicle thanks to mother nature & a month later i had to return my lease.

the accord might be perfect for you. its really roomy but drives sooooo well. really smooth & handles so well for a biggish car.

i love my mazda but it's tiny. i only drove suv's for 10 years before i got it & i love it cause its so zippy but its so so small.

i test drove so many sedans & read up a lot. also checked with people who already owned some of the vehicles & wanted to hear what real people said about reliability & service. really happy with the choices we made.

[drusilla]

the 3 has surprisingly good leg-room front and back.

it is pretty roomy in the car, but i think that's because the trunk is basically non-existant. i can't fit shit in there.

[midwestjeff]

i can't fit shit in there.

ewww.

[drusilla]

:thumbdown:

[razorboy]

:thumbdown:

Thumbs down would seem to be the way to go.

[Fez4PrezN2008]

I am perfectly happy w/ my 5 yr old Passat. Its a 5 spd manual. Not too exciting but gets the job done and seems like good build quality. I will never buy a brand new car again (unless new plug-in EV's become reasonably priced). Brand new is way too expensive and I always got buyers remorse after a year or two and stuck with sky-high pmts. I used to really love cars esp as a teen, but I couldn't give 2 shits what anyone drives anymore. Its just an expensive hunk of metal to get you back and forth from work and the grocery store.

[~Katja~]

I am perfectly happy w/ my 5 yr old Passat. Its a 5 spd manual. Not too exciting but gets the job done and seems like good build quality. I will never buy a brand new car again (unless new plug-in EV's become reasonably priced). Brand new is way too expensive and I always got buyers remorse after a year or two and stuck with sky-high pmts. I used to really love cars esp as a teen, but I couldn't give 2 shits what anyone drives anymore. Its just an expensive hunk of metal to get you back and forth from work and the grocery store.
I have a 6 year old jetta stationwagon with manual transmission and had nothing but trouble with it. It's hard to find a replacement as far as price, mpg & storage goes, so I am driving this till it falls apart I guess

[drusilla]

I've always bought new. My dad kind of drillled it into my head that it's better to have a fresh start than deal with someone else's problems.

[~Katja~]

I've always bought new. My dad kind of drillled it into my head that it's better to have a fresh start than deal with someone else's problems.
my first car was used... back in Germany... a Peugeot 106... I loved that thing.
This Jetta I bought brand spanking new in 2003 and it has been terrible to me once it hit 50k miles

[Hottub]

My chick's first car was a Peugeot. Diesel!

And Jettas ain't all that.

[boosterp]

my first car was used... back in Germany... a Peugeot 106... I loved that thing.
This Jetta I bought brand spanking new in 2003 and it has been terrible to me once it hit 50k miles

My chick's first car was a Peugeot. Diesel!

And Jettas ain't all that.

I agree in that the VWs made in Mexico suck. VWs that actually come from Germany are much more durable, but still expensive for parts, especially on the TDI.