Performance Sedan?

guitarman19853 · 02-24-2005, 10:03 PM

*Update!*
I got the car! I am now the owner of a '99 SVT Contour. The car drives amazing! This car is awesome!

Im a poor college student looking to get a decent car. I want a sedan (or wagon) so that it will be practical now and in the future. I would also like it to have decent performance. Also, keeping under or around $8,000. I am already aware of a few... WRX, SRT-4 (both too expensive) or the SVT Contour (My current choice). I would like to know, what car can i get used for around $8,000 or less that is a good performer?

The only reason that im not going right for the SVT Contour, is because they're hard to find. Even on Ebay, its hard to find one close by.

Zalight · 02-24-2005, 10:17 PM

The SVT contour is an amazing car, if you get the chance go for that. owever, being as they are hard to find, Im sure you could find something else that you like. The SVT focus also comes in a five door version and is a very fast, fun, practical and good looking car.

Honda has the accord, which has a 240 horsepower engine, but it might be too expensive for you.

I don't know... I would spring on the SVT contour if I got the chance, but its up to you.

ChrisV · 02-24-2005, 10:40 PM

Gotta recommend teh SVt Contour, as well. You just might have to drive a bit to get one, but it's worth it. I had my '99 for three years, and it was a total blast to drive. Comfy for long distances, fast on teh autocross track, practical as a daily driver, and one of the best exhaust sounds this side of an Alfa... Just make sure any you find have had the original water pump impeller changed to the new design (though it's a $70 part and about a half hour to change), as that's the real problem area on these cars.

Also try and find the '98 1/2 and '99 models (with the wheels like mine) as teh '99s had the 200 hp engine, lightened flywheel, and upgraded suspension, but didn't have the decontented brakes or interior parts like the 2000s did. '98 and '98 1/2 models had 195 hp and a heavier flywheel, which makes revving noticeably slower, as well as some other drivetrian parts that were improved in the newer models.

guitarman19853 · 02-24-2005, 10:45 PM

What's the difference between the '99 and the 2000? I found a 2000 on E-Bay for sale where I live right now but it's too short notice to buy.

StiMan · 02-25-2005, 01:21 AM

Seems like you are set on the Contour. I remember seeing Chris's one of the first days here. Definately grown to appreciate it. I would get a used WRX. But that is just my opinion. I dont really like American cars a whole bunch, so that is why. The SRT-4 is a good car, but you wont find a cheep used one because they havent been out for that long. Good luck!

guitarman19853 · 02-25-2005, 01:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by StiMan

Seems like you are set on the Contour. I remember seeing Chris's one of the first days here. Definately grown to appreciate it. I would get a used WRX. But that is just my opinion. I dont really like American cars a whole bunch, so that is why. The SRT-4 is a good car, but you wont find a cheep used one because they havent been out for that long. Good luck!

i havnt seen a used wrx in my price range. Im not set on the Contour, i just really like it. Im looking for alternatives to that.

NISSANSPDR · 02-25-2005, 02:48 AM

Quick 8k Sedans

Might consider a Galant VR4 (AWD and Turbo)

Acura Legend (V6 230HP w/6 spd manual)

Mid 90's Nissan Maxima V6 (190HP)

Mid 90's BMW 325/328i

Mid 90's VW Jetta V6

mazda6man · 02-26-2005, 08:04 AM

85-88 cressida... sweet looks, four doors, rare-er... super rare if its a 5 speed

Conduce · 02-27-2005, 05:29 AM

Would a 2000-2002 Mazda Protege fit the bill? I test drove one, fun cars.

BMWGuru · 02-27-2005, 05:50 AM

a late 80s/early 90s 7-series you could get for around 3-8k. it's probaby not as fast as you want stock, but you could probaby find one for 5 and spend the rest in a couple mods. repairs, although few and far between, will cost you, but it's worth it. it'll make a great family car, if that's what you're expecting in a few years.

you might also consider an early E36.

other non-BMW choices that i'd recommend include, but are not limited to, the jetta and passat.

NISSANSPDR · 02-27-2005, 06:08 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Conduce

Would a 2000-2002 Mazda Protege fit the bill? I test drove one, fun cars.

Yea I guess...if you could find one under 8k

guitarman19853 · 03-02-2005, 02:10 AM

i really like the deal you get on the svt. plus the oldest you can get is 98... so i wouldnt have to worry about it being an older car. Anyone have any suggestions on tracking one down?

ThirdeYe · 03-04-2005, 04:23 PM

Gotta recommend my Altima

guitarman19853 · 05-26-2005, 03:03 AM

Update! (Since just updating the title and thread didnt bump it)

ChrisV · 05-31-2005, 02:35 PM

Very cool! Looks just like mine! You're really gonna love driving that car...