Which car?

[confzedm3]

if you had 20k to spend on a car what car would you get and why?

[NSXType-R]

Anything (used or new)?

I'd go for either a Legacy or Impreza Wagon, used of course. $20,000 USD would be close but would barely cover most of the cost.

Edit- Forgot the why.

I always wanted a Subaru Impreza or Legacy Wagon as a first car for college. Very useful car, sporty, has lots of trunk room for my stuff, looks good, and is safe to boot. What is there not to like?

[pimento]

Either a Citroen DS or an Alfa 1750 GT Veloce, because they're awesome.

[Niko_Fx]

if you had 20k to spend on a car what car would you get and why?

You guys are gonna hate me, cause I'm going to get really annoying with this crap, but I might as well go for it since this won't happen again for a few more years....

I just bought a 2007 Nissan 350Z in mint condition with 19k miles for under US $20k :D:D:D Great deal, great car, I'm happy as hell, and that's what I would buy... or bought.... :D already :D

[confzedm3]

used or new is fine but im not that into the look of a wagon
i love the new wrx sedan
but then an old m3 like 04 or 03 would be sick too

[acfsambo]

Wat do ytou want the car for? Do u need or want space, economy, safety, looks, performance (level), ect.

HOw much wil you hav to insure the car with later on as some cars are more expensive to register and insure.

I would go something German or Japanese.

[roosterjuicer]

I would get a 6.0 litre GTO. I was looking at several when i bought my car, you can get one in good shape with pretty low miles for under 20.

as to why...400hp, 400tq, 26-28 mpg on the highway, reliable, good looking, relatively roomy inside, decent interior, 0-60 in 5 seconds, sounds nice, not a ton of them on the road but parts and stuff are still very cheap and easy to find, low maintenence costs

its hard to find something that offers better bang for your buck on the road right now.

[cmcpokey]

only 20? damn, i really dont know... maybe a caterham, or another 7 replica of some sort.

i need a track car. i cant really keep destroying the G for now. a 7 would be good for that. light weight, fast, easy access to any part that would need to be fixed after a hard day of racing.

[confzedm3]

im looking for a practical car not fwd but with great performance
decent mpg and looks good any insurance is fine

[f6fhellcat13]

I would get a 6.0 litre GTO. I was looking at several when i bought my car, you can get one in good shape with pretty low miles for under 20.

as to why...400hp, 400tq, 26-28 mpg on the highway, reliable, good looking, relatively roomy inside, decent interior, 0-60 in 5 seconds, sounds nice, not a ton of them on the road but parts and stuff are still very cheap and easy to find, low maintenence costs

its hard to find something that offers better bang for your buck on the road right now.

Wise man is wise.
The only question is color. I like:
EDIT: 2006 Pontiac GTO Colors Available (http://www.carsdirect.com/2006/pontiac/gto/colors)
Impulse Blue Metallic (prolly my favorite)
Phantom Black Metallic
Quicksilver Metallic
I've seen it in red, but that just kinda undermines the awesome Q-ship ness of it.

[Rockefella]

Used 7 series before they went Bangle in good condition. Why? Because I'm a ******* baller.

[cmcpokey]

im looking for a practical car not fwd but with great performance
decent mpg and looks good any insurance is fine

gto, e46, mb c, maybe early V35, older sti or evo, the non fwd makes it challenging in that price range, especially to get one that hasnt been previously abused.

[roosterjuicer]

im looking for a practical car not fwd but with great performance
decent mpg and looks good any insurance is fine

Well, my answer seems even better now!

As to color...i really liked the 5.7 litre ones in that dark purple for some reason (although i dunno if I'd eve buy one). but for the 6.0's i really really really like the spice red. its kind of a darker red maybe with just a hint of orange, not super flashy or anything.

[Bavarian_Power]

2005 Dodge SRT-4

or

i would buy a 1970 Datsun 510 and do a 13B swap, along with other mods

[f6fhellcat13]

gto, e46, mb c, maybe early V35, older sti or evo, the non fwd makes it challenging in that price range, especially to get one that hasnt been previously abused.

0-$20k in repairs/mantentance in a few months.:rolleyes:
Forgot about the E46. Spot on.
Could a used C-Class really have any power for that price?

I'm sure there are heaps of Fox and 90s gen. Mustangs around too for cheap, but that's not what I would go with.
EDIT:

As to color...i really liked the 5.7 litre ones in that dark purple for some reason (although i dunno if I'd eve buy one). but for the 6.0's i really really really like the spice red. its kind of a darker red maybe with just a hint of orange, not super flashy or anything.'I've been driven (and have driven) around in a red GTO. I felt purdy damn conspicuous.
That being said, anything is flashy compared to a '98 Ford Escort in white.

[roosterjuicer]

I'm sure there are heaps of Fox and 90s gen. Mustangs around too for cheap, but that's not what I would go with.


yeah but there are heaps of ls1 camaros and firebirds out there for cheap. I've gotta advise one of those over a fox body.

was the gto you were driving in spice red or the brighter red?

also, (back to the topic at hand) i dunno how practical of a car you want but...you could get a late 80's lotus esprit turbo or SE for around 20,000$ probably:D someone on this site actually has one that he got for about 19,000

[f6fhellcat13]

More of a candy-apple red.
EDIT: Like so: 295784

[baddabang]

You guys are gonna hate me, cause I'm going to get really annoying with this crap, but I might as well go for it since this won't happen again for a few more years....

I just bought a 2007 Nissan 350Z in mint condition with 19k miles for under US $20k :D:D:D Great deal, great car, I'm happy as hell, and that's what I would buy... or bought.... :D already :D


Congrats! Which color?

[roosterjuicer]

More of a candy-apple red.


yeah those are quite a bit flashier than the spice red.

confzdem3...are any of our ideas here persuasive? are any of us warm or cold? we are all kinda shooting in the dark here, the more you tell us, the more we can help (the no FWD/decent performance helped big time)

[clutch-monkey]

968 CS/944 S2
golf R32
second hand mustang GT

[baddabang]

I think for 20K I would try to find a desperate Honda dealer and make him an offer on a Civic SI.

If not then a slightly used CTS, Cobalt SS/SC, or G35 Coupe.

[roosterjuicer]

i think he said no fwd

[Niko_Fx]

Congrats! Which color?

Gray, lots of photos coming tomorrow!!

[RUF917LH]

Used Chevy Cobalt SS. Awesome little chunk of car!

[clutch-monkey]

can he get a good E36 M3 for that much?

[whiteballz]

As a daily.

(click to enlarge)
295785
Hardtuned.net Classifieds » Immaculate GP-Sports Nismo S13 (http://www.nissansilvia.com/classifieds/viewlisting.php?view=862)

A 1992 Nissan Silvia SR20DE with nismo goodies - $9,900 (however I'd have to put the stock front bar back on)



And this dirty little piggy for a track weapon.

(click to enlarge)
295786
Hardtuned.net Classifieds » RB20DET s13 drift pig (http://www.nissansilvia.com/classifieds/viewlisting.php?view=590)

1991 Nissan Silvia RB20DET with many race goodies... for $8,500

RB20DET
Stripped interior
Full 3inch exhaust
Fuel regulator
High flow walbro fuel pump
POD
FMIC
HD Clutch
Adustable Camber arms
Cusco Coilovers
Large alloy radiator and thermo
R200 LSD
Momo wheel, Nismo Gear Knob
Work Engineering wheels ( 17x 9 + 17, 4/5 stud )

And that leaves me a total cost of $18,400 AUD and a left over $1,600 for tyres and consumables (fuel + oils)

[clutch-monkey]

lol RB20. i'll catch the bus to work thanks.

[whiteballz]

lol RB20. i'll catch the bus to work thanks.

#1) Its better than the KA24DE the yanks got ;)
#2) cheap as chips to replace with an SR20DET once i blow the engine up

and lets face it - its going to die anyway. Why waste a good engine while im getting used to the car?

[clutch-monkey]

#1) Its better than the KA24DE the yanks got ;)
#2) cheap as chips to replace with an SR20DET once i blow the engine up

and lets face it - its going to die anyway. Why waste a good engine while im getting used to the car?

you might be right, but it's so out of element. you're supposed to connect a chain to it and use it like an anchor, just like it's designer's intended.

[whiteballz]

You have a point, but its better than a CA..

[clutch-monkey]

i dunno, CA's have the virtue of being a mini RB
only, minus the crippling wieght. and they aren't as long as a star destroyer.

[Kitdy]

I would get a 6.0 litre GTO. I was looking at several when i bought my car, you can get one in good shape with pretty low miles for under 20.

as to why...400hp, 400tq, 26-28 mpg on the highway, reliable, good looking, relatively roomy inside, decent interior, 0-60 in 5 seconds, sounds nice, not a ton of them on the road but parts and stuff are still very cheap and easy to find, low maintenence costs

its hard to find something that offers better bang for your buck on the road right now.

QFT for extreme muscle/sportscar status.


only 20? damn, i really dont know... maybe a caterham, or another 7 replica of some sort.

i need a track car. i cant really keep destroying the G for now. a 7 would be good for that. light weight, fast, easy access to any part that would need to be fixed after a hard day of racing.

QFT for extreme track status.


Used 7 series before they went Bangle in good condition. Why? Because I'm a ******* baller.

QFT to the extreme baller status.


968 CS/944 S2
golf R32
second hand mustang GT

QFT to the extreme.

Listen to these people.

[cmcpokey]

QFT for extreme track status.


oh yeah... this afternoon my wife and i saw the Birkin that i see on campus all the time. she hadn't seen it before. so i told her that i wanted a 7 for track use, when we have a larger house, where we dont have to park on the street. she said that was a good idea, and she supported it.... win!

[clutch-monkey]

oh yeah... this afternoon my wife and i saw the Birkin that i see on campus all the time. she hadn't seen it before. so i told her that i wanted a 7 for track use, when we have a larger house, where we dont have to park on the street. she said that was a good idea, and she supported it.... win!

haha, you could probably park it in or under her mazda :D

[cmcpokey]

haha, you could probably park it in or under her mazda :D

probably so... but my rex is in the garage... and it def wont fit with it. and i think a car with no roof should probably be parked in the garage.

[Ferrer]

second hand mustang GT
Maybe if you can find a new 08 you can still get it new for uner 20 grand.

Or with a bit of haggling maybe an 09 GT... :)

[ScionDriver]

Since I need something practical so I would probably get a 2004 R32. I have always wanted one of those I think they are just awesome.

[whiteballz]

probably so... but my rex is in the garage... and it def wont fit with it. and i think a car with no roof should probably be parked in the garage.

Race the rex?

[Rasmus]

Around $20k you say. Gee wiz, I'd be a tosser if I didn't say a low mileage Mustang GT vert. Hey, I can actually pack three people and their bags into it, and carry two bikes on the back - that's the definition of practical right there!

Even my local dealership has 07 GT coupes listed for less than 20 now, and that's before the usual goat market haggling.

[clutch-monkey]

Around $20k you say. Gee wiz, I'd be a tosser if I didn't say a low mileage Mustang GT vert. Hey, I can actually pack three people and their bags into it, and carry two bikes on the back - that's the definition of practical right there!

Even my local dealership has 07 GT coupes listed for less than 20 now, and that's before the usual goat market haggling.

it's not a hugely individual choice, but hugely good value it seems ;) warranty is a plus too, something a lot of the suggestions lack.

[Roentgen]

Fiat 500.

[Ferrer]

it's not a hugely individual choice, but hugely good value it seems ;) warranty is a plus too, something a lot of the suggestions lack.
And it's got a V8 and rear drive. :)

[Fleet 500]

A 1969 Cadillac Fleetwood Seventy-Five Limousine or a 1969 Dodge Coronet R/T 440-Magnum. Photos of both below.

[ruim20]

Used S2000 or Used Elise S1, one of thoose two would be fine :)

[mclaren_crazy]

$20K US is c.25K CAD which gives me just enough room for a used Delta Integrale Evo

1993 LANCIA DELTA INTEGRALE Evolution,Hatchback (http://www.trader.ca/powerpage/details.aspx?vlotid=46174&adid=6876946)

[NSXType-R]

used or new is fine but im not that into the look of a wagon
i love the new wrx sedan
but then an old m3 like 04 or 03 would be sick too

How old is old? One of the more recent ones will probably be still over your range.

I like the idea of the S2000 though. It's going out of production soon.

I like the wagon more. All preference of course, but I do need the extra room.

Happy car hunting!

[confzedm3]

ive heard that the gto is really heavy and that it handles horribly in the winter.
what about the new wrx or an old one and tuning it?

[clutch-monkey]

ive heard that the gto is really heavy
it's a saloon/GT...

and that it handles horribly in the winter.

well i never noticed a change in handling for winter :confused: ;)


what about the new wrx or an old one and tuning it?
i hope you like gearboxes

[Vanishing Boy]

New-> Either a '07 or '09 Honda Fit

Used-> Either a '06-'07 Subaru WRX Wagon or a Pontiac GTO 6.0.

:)

[P4g4nite]

2JZ Toyota Aristo

Big comfy 4 door, good equipment, looks nice with tasteful alloys, Supra turbo motor.

[Zytek_Fan]

I'd get an '00 to '02 Mercedes E55 AMG

[whiteballz]

it's a saloon/GT...

And here I was thinking it was a boat..


well i never noticed a change in handling for winter :confused: ;)

I sees it, what you did.


I hope you like gearboxes

IIRC It was one model year that gearboxes was an actual issue, and the fact people were launching an AWD system like a RWD didnt have anything to do with it either :)

[roosterjuicer]

I cant personally attest to how a GTO handles winter weather...

but i can tell you how a ls1 camaro z28 does. It does not do very well. I live in nebraska, i dont know where you live and how your winter compares to ours but I know that if i could only have 1 car, my camaro would not be it. I've never tried driving it with chains or snow tires but on the normal tires it definitely has some issues getting off the line if the road is slick and im trying to go up a small hill on residential streets after a decent bit of snow is compacted or if there is ice.

[Kitdy]

I'd get an '00 to '02 Mercedes E55 AMG

For 20k?!!?


I cant personally attest to how a GTO handles winter weather...

but i can tell you how a ls1 camaro z28 does. It does not do very well. I live in nebraska, i dont know where you live and how your winter compares to ours but I know that if i could only have 1 car, my camaro would not be it. I've never tried driving it with chains or snow tires but on the normal tires it definitely has some issues getting off the line if the road is slick and im trying to go up a small hill on residential streets after a decent bit of snow is compacted or if there is ice.

You drove a Camaro in the winter in snow?!

Sacrilege.

[whiteballz]

Its honestly such a foreign concept of needing different tyres for winter.

I think I'd be the first person to die in a fire in the middle of a snow storm on an ice lake or something.

[confzedm3]

i like the mustang gts but are there any easy mods to give it more hp?
any cars that would be very easy to mod?
im thinking about investing some money to work on the car for fun
to make it faster and handle turns better
is any car easier to mod than others?

[roosterjuicer]

You drove a Camaro in the winter in snow?!

Sacrilege.

agreed. to make a long story short...i have a shitass little brother who cant properly maintain a vehicle. His vehicle of course broke in the middle of finals week, he needed to get to a test, there was no way in hell i was letting him take my camaro when it was snowing so i let him borrow my suburban. then i got called into work because someone else no called/no showed, so i had to drive my camaro on those snowy, salty roads! :mad:

[clutch-monkey]

And here I was thinking it was a boat..

negative; aristo, two posts up from yours. it's even auto only!


IIRC It was one model year that gearboxes was an actual issue, and the fact people were launching an AWD system like a RWD didnt have anything to do with it either :)
well they're still weaker gearboxes than the sti.

I cant personally attest to how a GTO handles winter weather...
i can! i gained slight hp, since the A/C wasn't on.
:D


i like the mustang gts but are there any easy mods to give it more hp?
um..yes. really huge aftermarket. like, huge. gargantuan.



any cars that would be very easy to mod?
anything with a turbo
and
anything with a V8

[cmcpokey]

i like the mustang gts but are there any easy mods to give it more hp?
any cars that would be very easy to mod?
im thinking about investing some money to work on the car for fun
to make it faster and handle turns better
is any car easier to mod than others?

i am not sure there is a car more easy to mod than a mustang. maybe a camaro, but thats debatable. most of the cars mentioned thus far have large tuning communities. subaru, honda, mitsubishis, even bmw and m-b. these all have large aftermarkets, with many reputable tuners on both coasts.

where are you located so we can better asses what car may be right for you?

[roosterjuicer]

i like the mustang gts but are there any easy mods to give it more hp?
any cars that would be very easy to mod?
im thinking about investing some money to work on the car for fun
to make it faster and handle turns better
is any car easier to mod than others?

depends on what you mean by "easy". there's easy as in, there are tons of parts out there and they are "easy" to find. and there's easy as in, its really "Easy" to get extra power out of these cars. then there's easy as in this car is "easy" to work on.

that being said, your mustangs and your camaros and GTO's have plenty of parts that are "easy" to find. all three of the aforementioned cars have lots of untapped potential so they are "Easy" to get extra power out of. and they are all relatively easy to work on.

that being said, the same can be said for most of the cars other people have been mentioning except a lot of the cars with smaller motors arent as easy to get extra power out of for cheap (unless they are turbocharged or supercharged).

however, ive learned, and im sure a lot of people on this site will agree that its generally easier/cheaper to just buy a fast car and make it faster than it is to buy a slow car and make it fast (to a certain point)

in my opinion (i have owned both asian and american cars) an american muscle car is easier to mod than a japanese car (especially when you are talking 20 grand and rwd) because generally the muscle car is faster in the first place, parts are usually cheaper and you get a bigger hp gain per mod. however, with the advent of the 350z, the wrx and the evo, the japs have evened the playing field somewhat as far as a base to start with. and whether you get a 350, a wrx, a evo, a gto, or a mustang, you are getting a great, fast car, with plenty of modding potential. dont even bother with a civic or anything like that if you are trying to compare with a stang or a gto.

its important to note however that while japanese cars are generally slower than the mustangs and the gto, the generally handle better so it depends on what you want from your car. (i would argue that the gto handles pretty well and goes in a straight line pretty fast too)

In general, if you go dollar for dollar with modifications on a car with a decent sized v8 against one of its japanese rivals you'll get more bang for your buck with the v8. and in general if you are looking to autocross or whatever it is those crazy guys are doing these days, dollar for dollar, you'll probably be happier with the smaller, lighter, better handling japanese cars.

disclaimer:i have been painting with a pretty broad brush here, and there are plenty of exceptions to the general rules put forth here.

[Rasmus]

i like the mustang gts but are there any easy mods to give it more hp?
any cars that would be very easy to mod?
im thinking about investing some money to work on the car for fun
to make it faster and handle turns better
is any car easier to mod than others?

:D This is what I would do. Will do. Have done.

1. CAI and tune will set you back $500, and net you around 25-30 extra HP on the wheels. It's a piece of piss to put on - not even 30 minutes. Plus, it will make the car come alive, with basically any canned tune the throttle response is fenomal compared to stock. By far the easiest and the best bang for the buck mod out there.

2. 4.10 gears in the rear. Will set you back around $800 but that's including the install. It's not something I'd recommend to a beginner but it's a mod well worth getting done. No, you will not need the 160mph top speed, but you will have a massive grin on your face chirping the tires going from 2nd to 3rd. Combined with the CAI and tune, it sort of feels like riding a raped ape with a bottle of tabasco sauce stuck up its bum.

3. Minor mods such as CMCV delete plates are $150, and will give you a bit. Most people report 7-9 RWHP in the mid range, and 8-10 RWHP from 3000 rpm and up. Other report as high as up to 20 RWHP, but I think that is to be taken with a pinch of salt. Anyway, easy to install, and the low price alone makes for a great excuse to wrench a bit.

4. Another minor mod is replacing the underdrive pulleys freeing up some HP. Steeda's can be had new shipped for $210, and used for about $100-$150. I'd say good for about 10 RWHP. Most noticeable effect is the motor will rev up faster.

5. Put down anywhere in between $1100 and $1500 on a suspension upgrade kit that includes new shocks and springs, bushings, sway bars, etc. and you will have a car that's definitely worthy for a track day or two. Of course, if you're keen on that kind of thing, the stock brakes do well with upgraded pads and rotors.

And that's just the easy beginning. The aftermarket is huge, and there's loads of tutorials with picture guides out there.

[roosterjuicer]

and he would still loose to my stock ls1 camaro...(just kidding sounds like you've got a sweet car)

[NSXType-R]

2JZ Toyota Aristo

Big comfy 4 door, good equipment, looks nice with tasteful alloys, Supra turbo motor.

Isn't that just a GS300?

[clutch-monkey]

Isn't that just a GS300?

no.
aristo's got the twin turbo 2jz (no shit) before the supra's did, funnily enough..

[Rockefella]

no.
aristo's got the twin turbo 2jz (no shit)

Thx 4 tha lul.

[Fleet 500]

2JZ Toyota Aristo

Big comfy 4 door, good equipment, looks nice with tasteful alloys, Supra turbo motor.
At 189" (15.75 feet) in length, I don't think it should be referred to as "big."

[clutch-monkey]

At 189" (15.75 feet) in length, I don't think it should be referred to as "big."

there is a difference between 'big' and 'excessive' fleet ;)

[Kitdy]

:D This is what I would do. Will do. Have done.

Sweet Rasmus, what have you done so far? What sorta power are you putting down now?

And what is the stock rear-axle ratio?

[Zytek_Fan]

For 20k?!!?


Indeed.

[Fleet 500]

there is a difference between 'big' and 'excessive' fleet ;)
I could see "mid-sized" but certainly not "big" especially considering that my(compact) '66 Dart GT was 196.3" long.

Of course, these days I guess anything longer than a Ford Fusion or Toyota Camry is "big." :D

[clutch-monkey]

I could see "mid-sized" but certainly not "big" especially considering that my(compact) '66 Dart GT was 196.3" long.

Of course, these days I guess anything longer than a Ford Fusion or Toyota Camry is "big." :D
the aristo wieghs 1800kg and has 4 doors, it classifies as big :p
maybe american cars classify as enormous? :D

[NSXType-R]

no.
aristo's got the twin turbo 2jz (no shit) before the supra's did, funnily enough..

Yes, says Wikipedia.

Lexus GS - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lexus_GS)

Take a look at generation 1.

The body style was the same, but like you said, different engines.

OMG, engine swaps anyone?

[clutch-monkey]

Yes, says Wikipedia.

Lexus GS - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lexus_GS)

Take a look at generation 1.

The body style was the same, but like you said, different engines.

OMG, engine swaps anyone?
wow really? i though aristo was it's own model.
well either way chaser's are better imo
i just wanted to say 2jz no shit :( it's like how the eunos cosmos had a sequential turbo rotary before the RX-7 did.

[NSXType-R]

wow really? i though aristo was it's own model.
well either way chaser's are better imo
i just wanted to say 2jz no shit :( it's like how the eunos cosmos had a sequential turbo rotary before the RX-7 did.

Chasers? Another Toyota model that the US doesn't get right?

Sounds like a weird name.

Surprising to see how Toyota evolves their cars. The SC300 went from pretty cool to absolute garbage in one generation (SC430). Meanwhile, Toyota's large sedans still remain pretty cool, especially the Toyota Century. Boy that thing is awesome.

[Fleet 500]

the aristo wieghs 1800kg and has 4 doors, it classifies as big :p
maybe american cars classify as enormous? :D
That would make it relatively heavy, but not big! ;)

Sadly, there are no enormous American cars made today. But that's okay; I own two of them!

[clutch-monkey]

Chasers? Another Toyota model that the US doesn't get right?

Sounds like a weird name.

look it up. the closest i can come to describing is imagine the old, early/mid 90's honda accord if it was RWD and had a 1JZ


Surprising to see how Toyota evolves their cars. The SC300 went from pretty cool to absolute garbage in one generation (SC430). Meanwhile, Toyota's large sedans still remain pretty cool, especially the Toyota Century. Boy that thing is awesome.
they still evolve that same V8 too don't they?

That would make it relatively heavy, but not big! ;)

i know what you mean, dimensionally it's not huge, but it is, as you say, bigger than a camry :D


Sadly, there are no enormous American cars made today. But that's okay; I own two of them!
i always wondered - did you smash a bottle of champagne on the front of them for their maiden voyage? :D

[Rasmus]

and he would still loose to my stock ls1 camaro...(just kidding sounds like you've got a sweet car)

With gears the jump would be debatable but other than that I fully agree. The LS1s are absolutely beautiful from a performance standpoint. Then again a pullied Termi can also be had for less than 20 these days. (I'm not taking sides here, I'm European. I've just grown to love Domestics. Except SRT4's)

I actually found a well taken care of WS6 but I simply couldn't find a way to mount a bike rack. It's a bit embarassing but yes, I sort of ride my bikes a lot, and need to be able to lug them around :o

[Rasmus]

Sweet Rasmus, what have you done so far? What sorta power are you putting down now?

And what is the stock rear-axle ratio?

I honestly can't tell you because I haven't had it dynoed in a while. Stock it ran a measly 261 RWHP and 282 lbs-ft of torque. A guesstimate is a mid 290's RWHP now. Not terribly impressive considering a bolt-on SC kit will take it up to 430-460 RWHP easily. The blowers can do more but without forged internals it's not safe.

Stock ratio depends on the engine, model year and tranny.
05-06 GT auto: 3:31 and LSD
05-06 GT manual: 3:55 and LSD
07-09 GT auto/manual: 3:31 and LSD
05-09 V6 auto/manual: 3:31 and non-LSD

[roosterjuicer]

I actually found a well taken care of WS6 but I simply couldn't find a way to mount a bike rack. It's a bit embarassing but yes, I sort of ride my bikes a lot, and need to be able to lug them around :o

not too embarassing, you need a car to fit your life, not fit your life to a car (unless you just own 2...roosterjuicer style haha)

out of curiosity, what was the issue with the ws6, was it due to the "hatchback" layout? do those bike racks mount a lot better on a normal trunk?

[Rasmus]

Yessir. Neither Yakima, Thule or any of the other manufacturers I looked at made a trunk mount for the Firebirds because of the big ass hatch. Plus, it had a t-top so no roof mount either.

[roosterjuicer]

you shoulda got a trailer and had uhaul install one of those little drop hitches! haha that would be hilarious, id pay to see a ws6 towing a bike on a trailer

[Fleet 500]

i know what you mean, dimensionally it's not huge, but it is, as you say, bigger than a camry :D

Well, it is about 350 lbs heavier than a Camry, but the same length.

[Ferrer]

That would make it relatively heavy, but not big! ;)

Sadly, there are no enormous American cars made today. But that's okay; I own two of them!
Well the 300 is pretty enormous. At least it looks so in our streets.

[Fleet 500]

Well the 300 is pretty enormous. At least it looks so in our streets.
Chrysler 300?

[Ferrer]

Chrysler 300?
Yep (well here it's called 300C and only available with a diesel or the 6.1).

[cmcpokey]

Yep (well here it's called 300C and only available with a diesel or the 6.1).

the C is a trim level here... 300 with the V-6, and C with the V-8. i guess its a bit nicer inside, an bigger wheels and such.

[LeonOfTheDead]

Well the 300 is pretty enormous. At least it looks so in our streets.

it's just marginally bigger than an E-Klasse or 5 Series, but surely its squared look and the high belt line (ehm, the line which separates the beginning of the windows from the metal panel of the doors, that's the Italian name, can't remember the English word), makes it look even bigger.

[Ferrer]

it's just marginally bigger than an E-Klasse or 5 Series, but surely its squared look and the high belt line (ehm, the line which separates the beginning of the windows from the metal panel of the doors, that's the Italian name, can't remember the English word), makes it look even bigger.
It's more like 7er sized though.

However it seems like the line between E and F-segment cars is blurring, since the former are getting bigger and bigger.

[LeonOfTheDead]

It's more like 7er sized though.

However it seems like the line between E and F-segment cars is blurring, since the former are getting bigger and bigger.

yeah, the 300C is almost 5 meters, with the Audi A6 at 4,91 and the 5 Series and E-Klasse at 4,85, kinda.
quite huge.

[Rasmus]

Again, when discussing the size of American cars, consider the 502.2 cm long Challenger. For what it is - a 2 door coupe - that's enormous right there. Its wheelbase is closer to that of the S-class than that of the E-class.

Another interesting comparison between old and new would be the GT-R vs. R34 GT-R. I may be late to the game but I had no idea it was that much bigger. And I thought the R34 was big to begin with.

And now I may have strayed a bit too far OT. Sorry.

[LeonOfTheDead]

Again, when discussing the size of American cars, consider the 502.2 cm long Challenger. For what it is - a 2 door coupe - that's enormous right there. Its wheelbase is closer to that of the S-class than that of the E-class.

Another interesting comparison between old and new would be the GT-R vs. R34 GT-R. I may be late to the game but I had no idea it was that much bigger. And I thought the R34 was big to begin with.

And now I may have strayed a bit too far OT. Sorry.

perhaps off-topic, but true nonetheless.

[Fleet 500]

Again, when discussing the size of American cars, consider the 502.2 cm long Challenger. For what it is - a 2 door coupe - that's enormous right there. Its wheelbase is closer to that of the S-class than that of the E-class.

502.2 cm... that would about 197" long. Still not "big," not to me, anyway. Certainly nowhere near "enormous": that is a whole 6-tenths of one inch longer than my former '66 Dart Gt and that car never felt big to me.

A 2-door '68 Plymouth Road Runner (an intermediate-sized car) was 202.7" (514 cm).

Then they were actual large cars, available in 2-door form, which used to be built like the Chevy Caprice, which were about 215" long (546 cm).

And even a 2-door late -60s Cadillac at 225" (571 cm).

[clutch-monkey]

502.2 cm... that would about 197" long. Still not "big," not to me, anyway. Certainly nowhere near "enormous": that is a whole 6-tenths of one inch longer than my former '66 Dart Gt and that car never felt big to me.

A 2-door '68 Plymouth Road Runner (an intermediate-sized car) was 202.7" (514 cm).

Then they were actual large cars, available in 2-door form, which used to be built like the Chevy Caprice, which were about 215" long (546 cm).

And even a 2-door late -60s Cadillac at 225" (571 cm).

..you've now moved into the 'aircraft carrier' range of size fleet :p
i wonder how long my mini is?

[Rasmus]

502.2 cm... that would about 197" long. Still not "big," not to me, anyway. Certainly nowhere near "enormous": that is a whole 6-tenths of one inch longer than my former '66 Dart Gt and that car never felt big to me.

A 2-door '68 Plymouth Road Runner (an intermediate-sized car) was 202.7" (514 cm).

Then they were actual large cars, available in 2-door form, which used to be built like the Chevy Caprice, which were about 215" long (546 cm).

And even a 2-door late -60s Cadillac at 225" (571 cm).

That's a good point. I guess it's all a matter of perspective (no pun intended).

When I first got here I thought the Ford Explorers were massive. Which they are. Now I've just grown used to the size of SUVs, full length trucks, and McDonald's Happy Meals. No offence inteded - I quite like it here.



..you've now moved into the 'aircraft carrier' range of size fleet :p
i wonder how long my mini is?

120 inches?

A good friend of mine just got an 09 Smart ForTwo. It's 98.4 inches (or 2.5m) long, and we usually park next to each other. It does look a tad silly, yes.

[clutch-monkey]

That's a good point. I guess it's all a matter of perspective (no pun intended).
yeah, imo a lot of the older muscle cars look smaller than their current descendants because they're not as 'thick' vertically




120 inches?

i dunno. it's pretty tiny.

[f6fhellcat13]

120 inches
Rasmus, you are so far off! You fail. ;)

Wheelbase
2.04 m (80.3 in) (saloon)
2.14 m (84.3 in) (estate and commercials)

Length
3.05 m (120.1 in) (saloon)[1]
3.40 m (133.9 in) (estate and commercials)

Width
1.40 m (55.1 in)

Height
1.35 m (53.1 in)

Kerb weight
617 to 686 kg (1,360 to 1,512 lb)

[clutch-monkey]

lol! if that was a guess rasmus, well done.

[Fleet 500]

..you've now moved into the 'aircraft carrier' range of size fleet :p
i wonder how long my mini is?
Aircraft carrier would more suit my limo...
252.2" (640 cm). :D

Your mini would fit inside the wheelbase of my '69 Cad Fleetwood (133"/337 cm). :)

[TTEETT]

US 20k equal’s 38kNZ dollars, id buy a New Renault Cleo RS197.

Wont go second hand as the options are vast… E46 M3, Evolution 9, R34 GTR.

[Ferrer]

Aircraft carrier would more suit my limo...
252.2" (640 cm). :D

Your mini would fit inside the wheelbase of my '69 Cad Fleetwood (133"/337 cm). :)
Nope, that's "small country"... :D

[Fleet 500]

Nope, that's "small country"... :D
You probably are not too far off there. :D
But as long as the limo (21 feet long) fits in my garage (22 feet long), I'm happy. :)

(It is not being parked in there yet; I plan to make room for it in the next few months.)

[LeonOfTheDead]

You probably are not too far off there. :D
But as long as the limo (21 feet long) fits in my garage (22 feet long), I'm happy. :)

(It is not being parked in there yet; I plan to make room for it in the next few months.)

that could be embarrassing for the owner of a Maybach 62 waiting at a light crossing

[confzedm3]

does anyone know if it would be easy to install a twin turbo kit on a g35 coupe?

[clutch-monkey]

does anyone know if it would be easy to install a twin turbo kit on a g35 coupe?

what do you mean by 'easy'

are you going to do it yourself, or do you mean is it possible/can a shop do it?

[Kitdy]

does anyone know if it would be easy to install a twin turbo kit on a g35 coupe?

cmc_pokey saw a TT G35 just the other day as I recall - so it can be done. Can it be done easily? I unfortunately cannot answer that.

[cmcpokey]

does anyone know if it would be easy to install a twin turbo kit on a g35 coupe?

it is very doable... but unless you are a professional mechanic, you may want to take it to someone who knows what they are doing. there are a number of kits that are out there that have everything you need, but a good Z shop can steer you in the right direction to what would be best for you.

where are you at? i may be able to find one for you. although the almighty google can save you the trouble. i'd also like to see your car. have you tracked it? autox? drag? or is this just a toy to go fast in?

edit: check this out Forced Induction for Noobs.... - G35Driver (http://g35driver.com/forums/forced-induction/222225-forced-induction-noobs.html)

[Fleet 500]

that could be embarrassing for the owner of a Maybach 62 waiting at a light crossing
Why? Oh, I get it... because the Maybach 62 is shorter.

[Ferrer]

Why? Oh, I get it... because the Maybach 62 is shorter.
I thought the driver/owner of a Maybach was always embarrased...

[Fleet 500]

I thought the driver/owner of a Maybach was always embarrased...
Lol. Could be. Especially when what he paid for it really sinks in.

[ruim20]

A 1969 Cadillac Fleetwood Seventy-Five Limousine or a 1969 Dodge Coronet R/T 440-Magnum. Photos of both below.

There's a Fleetwood behind a wharehouse near my grandmas house (Fafe), a shame it's just been left there. it will probably rot down before anyone notices and takes care of him. :(

I think it's the limo to, it's got 'spare' seats in the back.

[Fleet 500]

There's a Fleetwood behind a wharehouse near my grandmas house (Fafe), a shame it's just been left there. it will probably rot down before anyone notices and takes care of him. :(

I think it's the limo to, it's got 'spare' seats in the back.
Yeah, if it has jump seats in the back, it is a limo.

Too bad it is in that condition; not that many were built. :(

[confzedm3]

this car is going to just be a toy
i wont be drag racing it
i just want it to have a very responsive throttle
great 0-60
and look good
ive seen people put twin turbos on g35s and they are very fast cars
could a person with very little experience install one?
if not about how much would it cost to pay to have one intsalled

[roosterjuicer]

this car is going to just be a toy
i wont be drag racing it
i just want it to have a very responsive throttle
great 0-60
and look good


and we come back to the GTO.

[clutch-monkey]

ive seen people put twin turbos on g35s and they are very fast cars
could a person with very little experience install one?

no


if not about how much would it cost to pay to have one intsalled
ask a shop that does it not us

this car is going to just be a toy
i wont be drag racing it
i just want it to have a very responsive throttle
great 0-60
and look good
GTO does seem to fit the bill as RJ said.

[Ferrer]

Wouldn't a Mustang be cheaper and simpler?

[roosterjuicer]

Wouldn't a Mustang be cheaper and simpler?

i dont know much about the used mustang market but i know you can find a low mileage ls2 gto for under 20k. the ls2 GTO is faster than the stang, and has a 6 speed and a nicer interior. personally i think it looks better, classier and more mature (but thats subjective)

[whiteballz]

Its australian - Its better.

[Blue Supra]

Its australian - Its better.

seconded and carried.

[confzedm3]

ok so its between a mustang or a gto
how would the gto compare to an 2003 m3?

[f6fhellcat13]

The americans/oz would prolly be cheaper to maintain.
The M3 would probably run you about $25k, so a little over budget. That being said, it'll be more fun in the twisties.

[whiteballz]

The americans/oz would prolly be cheaper to maintain.
The M3 would probably run you about $25k, so a little over budget. That being said, it'll be more fun in the twisties.


LIES!!!

The GTO wont hurt the wallet as much if you bin it into the wall :p

[Rasmus]

Okay.. I actually tested a white 2003 M3 vert last weekend, so I'm going to chime in - again.

Throttle response:
I've had an E46 before, and the M didn't disappoint me. Nice car through and through, excellent build quality, effective German engineering, magnificent I6, damned fun once you drive it hard in the curves, and it is fast - but you have to rev it. Low end grunt is noticeably missing compared to the American V8s, but it really shouldn't come as a surprise to anyone. The Goat and the Stang will both produce as much torque as the M is capable of way earlier in the rev range (2500-3000 versus 4900), and they will then still go on to produce even more higher up. Another example, at 3000rpm the Americans produce 50 to 75% more RWHP than the M. What this means is, that unless you work the 6 speed in the M to keep the revs up, the two Americans are going to feel snappier in everyday driving situations. You need to get the M up where the beautiful S54 I6 does its magic, before the M will start to even out the playing field. Long story short: if you go with an M, go for one with SMG.

0-60:
In reality the 05/06 GTO and the US version of the M are practically dead even when it comes to the 0-60 sprint and the ubiquitous quartermile - with the Mustang lagging a wee bit behind. That said, if performance is what you want, find a Terminator Cobra. Stock for stock it'll be the fastest of any of the others (and it'll respond very, very well to only a few $$ spent on basic bolt-ons).

Looks:
The E46 M is one heck of a good looking car! I get to admire one on an almost daily basis, and it is absolutely gorgeous. The GTO, on the other hand, I feel looks a bit anonymous - to put it mildly. For obvious reasons, I like the styling of the S197 GT very much, but a stock GT needs to be lowered. It needs it badly.

Start pricing (around my neck of the woods):
05 S197 GT: $15k
04 GTO: $14k
05-06 GTO: $18k
03 M3: $20k
03 M3 w/ SMG: $25k

End statement:
Now, you're not gonna buy either of these cars with your head. Go out and find some you can take out on test drives. Get the one that makes you smile more.

[Ferrer]

Long story short: if you go with an M, go for one with SMG.
Never!

Th S54 engine is truly great though.

[confzedm3]

i have test driven the gto and the m3 and the m3 feels incredible although the gto has more power the looks of the m3 take over the gto with ease. i love the smg. i have decided on the m3 to buy i found one with an smg for under 20 and i am going to go buy it.