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Old 02-02-2012, 08:06 PM   #1
Biggins
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Looking for Something Impractical $8-12k

Any ideas?

I'm keeping my E36 because it's worth nothing, dirt cheap on insurance, works well in the city, and hauls the dog. The new car would be a 2nd car.

My budget is under $12k and preferably closer to $8k. I want something that is sporty, handles great, two-seater convertible, and will be fun to autocross (does not have to win) for years to come.

I hope to test drive MR-2 Spyders, older Sky/Solsti, Miatas. If there are any new style MX-5s, S2000, Z4s at or under $12k, I'd like to try them though I think I ruled out the Z4 already. Is the consensus that a new MX-5 the best bet and can I find one for $12k (or less)?
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Old 02-03-2012, 02:01 AM   #2
3LOU5
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I'm actually in the same boat as you.

I'm planning on keeping my E46 as a DD until the last bolt falls off, so I've been tossing around the idea of purchasing a fun, Miata-like car as well.

I'll be keeping a close eye on this thread....
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Old 02-03-2012, 08:03 AM   #3
bren
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I have a vette in my garage that'd be perfect you.

Last edited by bren; 02-03-2012 at 08:54 AM.
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Old 02-03-2012, 08:48 AM   #4
clyde
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Quote:
Originally Posted by bren View Post
I have a vette I'm my garage that'd be perfect you.
Got a parts car for it, too.
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Old 02-03-2012, 09:32 AM   #5
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I'm no expert in cheap Miatas, but if I were in your shoes that's definitely what I'd be looking for. I think lupinsea just bought a relatively new one for within your budget range, but if it were me I'd probably go a bit older, save a packet on the initial purchase, and bank some money for repairs/go fast mods.
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Old 02-03-2012, 10:24 AM   #6
Sharp11
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An NB Miata would be tough to beat.
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Old 02-03-2012, 10:53 AM   #7
wdc330i
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Miata FTW.

Edit: Not as good a value, but also fun: http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.js...standard=false

Last edited by wdc330i; 02-03-2012 at 11:03 AM.
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Old 02-03-2012, 11:04 AM   #8
bren
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I think you all missed it, we're talking about not 1, but 2 - C O R V E T T E S!

Quote:
Originally Posted by wdc330i View Post
Edit: Not as good a value, but also fun:
....so long as the suspension isn't tearing out of the body.
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Old 02-03-2012, 11:11 AM   #9
wdc330i
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Quote:
Originally Posted by bren View Post
I think you all missed it, we're talking about not 1, but 2 - C O R V E T T E S!


....so long as the suspension isn't tearing out of the body.
True. Check the subframe.
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Old 02-03-2012, 07:36 PM   #10
Biggins
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If none of these cars on my test drive lineup pan out, I'll keep that in mind bren/clyde.

I'm looking at an MR2 Spyder tomorrow and my buddy is going to let me drive his Mazdaspeed Miata next week when we can work out a night.
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