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Car Advice Needed.

Discussion in 'Questions and Answers' started by TiP54, Jan 12, 2012.

  1. TiP54

    TiP54 Bad Reputation

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    I dont normally do this, but after being a member here for over 5 years I figured I could ask you guys a question.
    As the title says, I am looking for a bit of a car advice. I am 20 years young (boutta be 21) and I am looking to get my first "real" car. I dont know jack **** about cars, thats where the core of my problem lies. I have a 1997 Sebring LX that Ive had since junior year of HS that I got for a thousand bucks, but it is literally falling apart. Ive changed the starter, alternator, put in a transmission, and done many many many other things to it in order to keep it afloat. Now, I have graduated the Police Academy last month and hopefully within next year or I will land a Cop job, but meanwhile im a full time supervisor at a restaurant that doesn't pay TERRIBLE (like jobs i had before. ($11.50) for somebody who doesn't have to pay rent, just cellphone, gym, insurance and credit card and school loan. My point is that I can start saving up money and have few grand saved up by end of the year to put down and take out a loan for the rest of it. When i took out a school loan in June ($4k) my credit score was decent, around 680 but im sure it dipped a bit since I fell behind my payments over period of my schooling.
    My question is this, what can i get at around 20k (preferably 16-19k) newer model ('08-'10) and will be a good bang for the buck. Something sporty, something that is easy to find mods for, preferably a coupe. Im not planning on going to the track or anything, but something that is fun to drive around and have SOME Horse Power. I know that this is VERY vague and that I pretty much described a Honda. But here is the deal - I dont want a Honda. I never liked them.
    Im looking at a '09 GTI right now, which doesn't look bad and isn't the slowest card in the world either (nor the fastest either, by any stretch of imagination lol)
    But again, I don't know jack about them besides reviews ive read online. Can anybody help me here? Any advice on what fits my criteria? Again, I know this is incredibly vague, but Im just doing some research for near future, something by end of this year, hopefully.
    Any advice is welcome :D


    P.s. For those who don't recognize my name, I used to go be "Mari0k"
    P.s. for those who recognize my name but dont care - screw you guys!
     
  2. Laces Out

    Laces Out Well-Known Member

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    Subaru WRX STI 05 or 06 older than you want I know BUT.....you can mod that to where you get damn near 30mpg highway, and you can kind of off road in it
     
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  3. TiP54

    TiP54 Bad Reputation

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    I actually have one in my parking lot. Im not a fan of that hood scoop lol. But ill read up on it.
     
  4. BicketyBam

    BicketyBam No Fist Pumps Allowed

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    I have an '06 STI, modded, and it barely gets 20 mpg highway. It is also more expensive to insure that my Corvette. Not the car for him. Maybe a straight WRX, but forget the STI. Also, used, it will most likely have been beat on.

    -Ed-
    sent from my mobile device
     
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  5. Laces Out

    Laces Out Well-Known Member

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  6. unluckyluciano

    unluckyluciano For My Hero JetsSuck

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    Sell sell sell sell!!
     
  7. TiP54

    TiP54 Bad Reputation

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    Sell what?
     
  8. Laces Out

    Laces Out Well-Known Member

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    He is saying pass on the car suggestion I believe.
     
  9. Pagan

    Pagan Metal & a Mustang

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    Too bad you're looking for horsepower, cause I can show you the best car for the money right now...but it only has 138 horses so it can give you 40 mpg. As far as looks and features go, you can't beat it.

    Look up the Hyundai Veloster. Just bought one, 2012 for $18.5K. Can't be happier.
     
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  10. TiP54

    TiP54 Bad Reputation

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    Saw yours on FB. It's cool, and as a 2012 has ****ton of cool features. But yeah, I'm looking something with a lil bit more kick to it.
     
  11. Boik14

    Boik14 Season Ticket Holder Club Member

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    I have an 06 Camry SE with sunroof. Low maintenance, good gas mileage, decent pick up for a relatively inexpensive car. Its not super sporty but it will cut your expenses as far as car maintenance goes so you can save up for something nicer in a few years.
     
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  12. BicketyBam

    BicketyBam No Fist Pumps Allowed

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    What party of the county do you live in? I'd consider a 6 cylinder Mustang if you don't have to deal with a ton of snow. Great looking car, decent gas mileage, and reliable.


    -Ed-
    sent from my mobile device
     
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  13. TiP54

    TiP54 Bad Reputation

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    South Florida.
     
  14. BicketyBam

    BicketyBam No Fist Pumps Allowed

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    Consider a Mustang convertible. And moving.

    -Ed-
    sent from my mobile device
     
  15. TiP54

    TiP54 Bad Reputation

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    I like 80 degree weather lol. Mustang is an option, convertible is not.

    Does anybody know anything about GTi's?
     
  16. TiP54

    TiP54 Bad Reputation

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    What are some car buying websites besides Cars.com and carsoup?
     
  17. BicketyBam

    BicketyBam No Fist Pumps Allowed

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    www.edmunds.com

    -Ed-
    sent from my mobile device
     
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  18. MonstBlitz

    MonstBlitz Nobody's Fart Catcher

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    My advice: Save up your money for as long as you can and then buy the best car you can afford outright without the loan. Even if it means you can't get the car you want and have to settle for something less sporty.

    I know, it doesn't sound like fun but car payments suck. And financing a depreciating asset really sucks. Then you can use the money you would have spent on the car payment to pay off that student loan. Might not seem like the best plan now, but not having debt is financial freedom. Everyone thinks the key to financial independence is to keep making more money, but if you can live debt free you'll already be financially independent.
     
  19. BigDogsHunt

    BigDogsHunt Enough talk...prove it!

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    As an officer of the law (or soon to be) be true to your roots:

    Starsky & Hutch
    [​IMG]


    Bullet
    [​IMG]


    Dirty Harry
    [​IMG]

    Kojak:
    [​IMG]


    Blues Brothers (technically not cops...but....)
    [​IMG]
     
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  20. MonstBlitz

    MonstBlitz Nobody's Fart Catcher

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    A buddy of mine sells cars and he says the same thing about Dodge.

    More advice I'd give the OP about buying a car, is don't be afraid to travel to get a deal on a vehicle. It drives me crazy when people think they are limited to a 25 mile radius when purchasing a car. I've saved thousands just by making the 6 hour drive back to western New York where I'm from and dealing with someone I know to get my vehicles rather than getting high grossed at dealerships here in the greater Washington D.C. area.

    And like Aqua says, absolutely DO NOT impulse buy.

    And don't fall for the number one salesman trap: "How much can you afford per month?" Because they can sell you just about any car that will fall into your monthly budget. They'll just finance it out for much longer than the likely life cyle of the vehicle. Yet another reason I recommend saving up and buying vehicles outright (if possible).
     
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  21. MonstBlitz

    MonstBlitz Nobody's Fart Catcher

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    Ha! A little off topic, but it's the same reason I had to get out of financial sales. I was doing great till I grew a conscience. Annuities paid a much higher commission and made the company much more money but they weren't best for the clients 90% of the time. When I realized I couldn't earn a living selling mutual funds, I exited stage left. Sales is an ugly, ugly, but necessary business.

    Back on topic:

    That's why it's CRUCIAL for anyone in the market for a new car to know exactly what car you want, the fair and reasonable price the car should cost, and NEVER become emotionally attached to a vehicle. Takes all the power away from the salesman and keeps you in control.
     
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  22. Laces Out

    Laces Out Well-Known Member

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    Tips I'd like to add:
    Don't be afraid to walk away, because as the sales guys here will tell you, they know EXACTLY what they can sell the vehicle for, the "let me ask my manager" is bull. They are trying to get you to dig the car even more knowing full well you will get attached.

    Lie to them, as they will lie to you without hesitating.

    Secure financing from your own bank, they can probably work with you on rate, and additional warranty/insurance.

    Ask to see the invoice, I believe they are required to show it. Not the one with the MSRP, but what they actually paid for the car, and go from that price.

    And remember, don't be afraid to walk away(I know it is a repeat, but it is quite important, and if you are dealing with someone who needs the sale, they will make it happen)
     
  23. TiP54

    TiP54 Bad Reputation

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    Thanks for the advice guys. Aqua, I might shoot you a PM later this year regarding this subject, since Im only starting to look at them and I just recent got the job. As for my shopping radius, I always put in maximum distance available (usually 500 miles) from my zipcode. At the end of the years I will be looking to buy a 09-10 GTI for around 17 grand. Ill be looking for the cars to have under 50k miles, coupe and preferably stick.
     
  24. MonstBlitz

    MonstBlitz Nobody's Fart Catcher

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    Solid cars. I'm not sure about the newer ones, but the older models specifically the Jettas got amazing mileage with the diesel versions. I had an '04 Jetta Diesel and once got 700 miles on one tank of fuel.
     
  25. TiP54

    TiP54 Bad Reputation

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    After some more research, Im considering an '08 Infiniti G37 as well.
     
  26. texasPHINSfan

    texasPHINSfan New Member

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    If you like VW's, I can probably answer any questions you have. I've breathed, eaten, and slept VWs for two decades now. I've also owned five GTIs, six jettas, and two passats. :up:

    GTI is a good car, fun to drive, gets 30 mpg highway, and still has pace. Plenty of them out there used and you can get a slightly used, warrantied-CPO car for around $20k. I just looked at a lease for a new jetta GLI and we were offered $350/month payments; so reasonable.

    Good luck!
     
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  27. TiP54

    TiP54 Bad Reputation

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    Found this;
    http://www.cars.com/go/search/detai...pp=50&feedSegId=28705&aff=national&listType=1

    Its WAAAAY under the market value. Im not a fan of those rims, but leather interior, I like the color, its a coupe and it has a system. I called the dealer, he said the reason it's so cheap is because they've had it for over two months and the starting asking price was 20k. I asked about carfax, and he said, and I quote "Well it's a New York car, there is no structural damage but it was in a parking fender bender which messed up the front bumper, and now it doesn't go as fast" and he couldn't elaborate on that.
    Im not sure what to make of this, Ive got a feeling he is hiding something. Id go for a test drive, but it's a 100+ miles away and going there for ****s giggles doesn't seem worth it.
     
  28. texasPHINSfan

    texasPHINSfan New Member

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    We used to have spiffs on cars that had sat on the lot longer, back when I was a salesman. Usually it was because of their lack of options, color, or something like that.

    For your case, I'd absolutely drive 100 miles if I was serious about buying the car. I'd also be wary of cars that are already modified. You don't know what they did to the wiring, factory alarm, etc; you could be buying someone else's headache.

    For a car like this you'd have to make the trek to go look at it. And bring a Nissan/Infiniti buddy with you (if you have one). Someone that knows what to look for... Also think about repair costs. Infiniti would certainly be more expensive to fix than a Hyundai or VW
     
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  29. TiP54

    TiP54 Bad Reputation

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    I think Ill got with the GTI after all. Deciding between an 08 and 09.
     
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  30. Boik14

    Boik14 Season Ticket Holder Club Member

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    Thats BS. Thats exactly what a salesperson is SUPPOSED to do. Your manager is an idiot. I will tell him as much if you would like. I've done retail sales for a major cell phone provider for 6+ years. Ive finished in the top 20 in NY/NJ/Conn area in sales out of literally 1300 salespeople. Seeing the people who are in that lot every year they are consistent about 1 thing..brutal honesty. It leads to referrals. It leads to customer loyalty and building a customer base. It leads to your success. Your sales manager is interested in immediate gratification and the immediate sale nothing more. I have a client list over 700 people long that I have to email whenever I change stores so they know where to find me because they have either had bad experiences with other representatives or just a better one with me. Sales is more about selling whats right and building your clientele. Any schmuck can push a particular product based on customer impulse. I am always on my customers side, thats how you build trust and forge a relationship with a customer. Ive gotten tips, PBA cards, lunches, tickets to sporting events, today I got a month of free Tae Kwon Do lessons from a customer who teaches for the US National team. Read The Psychology of Sales...its a good read for any salesperson.


    Ok, now back to cars. I just felt bad because you dont suck as a salesperson from the way you make it sound, your boss is really an idiot.
     
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  31. ToddsPhins

    ToddsPhins Banned

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    I have a GLI. I absolutely love the car. I'll take the German (or Italian) driving experience any day of the week.
    I even flew to Houston just to buy it and drove it back to Lauderdale the next day. (mainly b/c I wanted it in black and fully loaded with leather, nav, dual climate control, package 2, and upgraded wheels).


    [​IMG]


    I could've gotten an Audi A4 2.0 (that retails for the same sticker price), but a loaded GLI (previous model at least) is nothing but a standard A4 that's been upgraded & macked out as you likely already know (and more car than a C Class Benz).

    Fully loaded GLI compared to A4 2.0 has better leather seats (and heated)
    same 2.0 turbo engine
    Same computer info system
    Upgraded Sport suspension
    Better sound system than standard Audi
    Tiptronic
    better wheels
    ground effect kit with spoiler
     
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  32. texasPHINSfan

    texasPHINSfan New Member

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    That is a nice GLI, sir. :up:

    Good choice TiP, although there is nothing wrong with a G35 either. :)
     
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  33. ToddsPhins

    ToddsPhins Banned

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    Thanks TPF. It's funny---- I've had 2 different Mercedes people walk up to me in a parking lot and tell me a "I didn't know a VW could look that good"..... and I've lost track how many times a random driver looks over in traffic and says "nice car" or something of the sort. No way that happens in a standard A4, C Class, or 3 series. Not that there's anything wrong with those cars b/c I test drove em all, but I just like the uniqueness of a loaded GLI. I heard they stop making the one like mine b/c there wasn't enough profit in the car at 34k and they didn't want to raise the sticker.

    Nothing wrong at all with a G35. :wink2: I test drove one and really liked it. If I didn't want the room of a 4 door I probably would've gotten it.
     
  34. texasPHINSfan

    texasPHINSfan New Member

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    I currently have two Jettas; a mk3 and a mk5. I threw Bentley wheels on my mk5 Jetta :lol:

    [​IMG]

    I gave that car to the lady to drive now. I also picked up a Cadillac and put 20's with vogues on it :up:
     
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  35. texasPHINSfan

    texasPHINSfan New Member

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    Travis, did you ever get that Charger you wanted?
     
  36. BlameItOnTheHenne

    BlameItOnTheHenne Taking a poop

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    Love Hyundais
     
  37. ToddsPhins

    ToddsPhins Banned

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    Can't go wrong there.
     
  38. texasPHINSfan

    texasPHINSfan New Member

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    an Elantra huh?

    I pegged you as a more exciting/different car guy. Veloster?
     
  39. Ohio Fanatic

    Ohio Fanatic Twuaddle or bust Club Member

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    I've been doing the lease thing for awhile now. at least for my car, we're buying my wife's family car via the normal route. I've leased 3 cars in a row. My experience with leasing:

    1) it's worth it if you want to buy a nicer car that you normally couldn't afford. With a nicer car, you can afford it on a monthly basis, and depending on the model, it's residual value can be worth more than what is still owed at the end of the lease (or at least not a huge deficit). It also allows you to get a new car every few years as long as you have a downpayment every three years. just for example: when I lived in GA, I leased a Lexus RX350 for about 440/month. If I had try to buy that car outright, would have been more than double.

    2) when it's not worth it: when you have a more economical car. My current lease is a Subaru Forester. In hindsight, I would have been better off either refinancing my RX350 and buying it outright or saving up a little more dough to buy the Forester.
     
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  40. texasPHINSfan

    texasPHINSfan New Member

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    I'm saving up for a Continental GT Supersport. Almost there! :lol:

    [​IMG]

    fap fap fap
     

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