TA-DA! I'm green with envy right now. My sunroof isn't quite doing it for me in this glorious Norcal weather.
Besides I'm only allowed to drive V8 stickshift cars under adult supervision. Last one I had...well...I was bad....I was real bad.....
GOOD ANGEL (on right shoulder): You know, Shifty, you are on public roads, and driving too fast is simply irresponsibile...
BAD ANGEL (on left shoulder) Oh, right, listen to little goody two wings over there. Man, there isn't a car or a house or an animal within miles of this road. Punch it a little, you weenie. After all, this is why you bought the darn thing....
GA: Shifty, remember the last time on that curvy mountain road when you almost cleaved the mirror off that RV coming around a blind curve?
BA: And whose fault was that?....road hog!
SHIFTY: Shut up, you guys. I'm trying to drive here.....
@Michaell I've had PreCheck as part of my Global Entry membership for close to 4 years. Given the volume I travel, it makes the process far more bearable and much less time consuming - even on a busy day, I'm through security in under 10 minutes.
It's especially useful at the hub airports (SFO, SeaTac, LAX, JFK, etc) where standard security lines on a busy day can take an hour or more.
2025 Jetta GLI Autobahn, 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xE
If it wasn't so hot out today, I'd detail her and slap on a coat of wax. Easier to drive than I was expecting. Clutch is a bit heavy, but engagement is positive and the the shifter is properly precise and weighted. Brakes are fine. Steering is better than I thought it would be. It has a little body flex, but I expected that. Probably runs as well as it did off the showroom floor. And, surprising for an 18 year old car. More comfortable than I was expecting, too.
Makes great noises. Not as fast as the current crop of muscle cars, but plenty fast to have some fun with. DId a burn out, just because I could. Got some applause from innocent bystanders, too.
@Michaell I've had PreCheck as part of my Global Entry membership for close to 4 years. Given the volume I travel, it makes the process far more bearable and much less time consuming - even on a busy day, I'm through security in under 10 minutes.
It's especially useful at the hub airports (SFO, SeaTac, LAX, JFK, etc) where standard security lines on a busy day can take an hour or more.
Couldn't agree more. If you do air travel more than a few times a year, well worth it.
@garphicguy. Congrats on buying the Cobra. If you had decided on something else, I was going to ask you for the guy's contact info. Speaking of flying, kids just landed in Munich this morning. We are flying into Hamburg later today and they will meet us in a couple of days. Taking care of my mother's final wish for her ashes. See everyone in a week.
Keeping in the spirit of wind in the hair convertibles, I drove a CPO '15 VW Eos today. I was pleasantly surprised at how tight the body is with little cowl shake and wiggles. I like the fact that it is a hardtop convertible and also has a sunroof if you don't want to put the top down. The DSG shifted smartly and it has good power. I had fun.
2021 VW Arteon SEL 4-motion, 2018 VW Passat SE w/tech, 2016 Audi Q5 Premium Plus w/tech
If it wasn't so hot out today, I'd detail her and slap on a coat of wax. Easier to drive than I was expecting. Clutch is a bit heavy, but engagement is positive and the the shifter is properly precise and weighted. Brakes are fine. Steering is better than I thought it would be. It has a little body flex, but I expected that. Probably runs as well as it did off the showroom floor. And, surprising for an 18 year old car. More comfortable than I was expecting, too.
Makes great noises. Not as fast as the current crop of muscle cars, but plenty fast to have some fun with. DId a burn out, just because I could. Got some applause from innocent bystanders, too.
Congrats on the new wheels.
If it means anything, I would have made the same choice and you saved me from burning my money. @snakeweasel can confirm this but the IRS takes a dim view if you burn your money. You get hit with a whopping surtax since they feel it is a tax avoidance maneuver...seems like they consider it proof that you are burning the evidence. So, thanks for not putting me through that.
As for being too hot to wax your new beauty, I know what you mean. It's pretty damn hot here the Burgh area today too and the humidity is out of site. But, after the newness wears off in a few days and after getting a new set of tires you'll be ready for the wax thingy. I do my waxing in my almost air conditioned garage. I cut a hole in the garage duct and put in a closeable vent and leave the door open to the basement with a 20 inch breeze box sucking the cool air out of the basement and dumping it into the garage. Believe it or not it works pretty good. You otta try it my way since it ain't that bad doing it like that. Last tip, go to Harbor Freight and get this http://www.harborfreight.com/pneumatic-adjustable-roller-seat-46319.html. It sure is easy on your back using this toy to do the sides of the car.
Now all you have to do is post some glossies after it's all dolled up.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
TA-DA! I'm green with envy right now. My sunroof isn't quite doing it for me in this glorious Norcal weather.
Besides I'm only allowed to drive V8 stickshift cars under adult supervision. Last one I had...well...I was bad....I was real bad.....
GOOD ANGEL (on right shoulder): You know, Shifty, you are on public roads, and driving too fast is simply irresponsibile...
BAD ANGEL (on left shoulder) Oh, right, listen to little goody two wings over there. Man, there isn't a car or a house or an animal within miles of this road. Punch it a little, you weenie. After all, this is why you bought the darn thing....
GA: Shifty, remember the last time on that curvy mountain road when you almost cleaved the mirror off that RV coming around a blind curve?
BA: And whose fault was that?....road hog!
SHIFTY: Shut up, you guys. I'm trying to drive here.....
Hmmmm, I've heard that couch time with a therapist is on the high side in CA.
Probably just as well. No one has the right to take that kind of fun away from a guy who likes driving.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
So, shopping done. Won't keep you in suspense. Drove the Cobra and it is "All That".
I think Snakeweasal put it into perspective for me.....drop top, great condition, fun, it's a Cobra. I bought it last night.
Thought about it. What tilted it was tying up $37K on a car I'll only drive 5 months out of the year. And, I doubt I'll ever run into a car like the Cobra ever again. If I decide to sell it, I won't lose nearly the money I would lose on the new GT.
Don't get me wrong....GT was a fun drive. And, for all intents and purposes, the price was right.
The Cobra was tough to pass up, though. It's practically an 18 year old new car. In two years, I'll be able to put historical plates on it.
The seller ended up being a nice guy. Not sure if I mentioned, his wife bought the Cobra new for him on their 20th wedding anniversary. It's never seen rain, nor snow....always garaged. All paperwork on it, even the MSRP sticker...oil change receipts, new tires (to replace the ones that had flat spots, new battery, new convertible boot (he said the old one never fit right, so he bought a new one, which does fit right).
Just a very, very nice car.
Craig....I would have jumped all over that GT on the spot with the offer they made if I didn't have the Cobra on the table, too. I told them that I was looking at the Cobra, also.
It really was a tough choice because the new Mustangs are probably the performance bargains of this decade. They are a little soft in the handling dept (my CTS actually does a better job), but man are they fun. Plus, they've got all the track apps (of which I'd use maybe a dozen times) and all the modern stuff cars come with these days like bluetooth, heated/cooled seats, etc.
For a nice weather weekend car, I think the Cobra will do just fine.
Got to get the title transferred today and will take pics, then.
Thanks for everyone's input. You guys have all been helpful.
And remember, the new Mustang GT will still be there when you tire of the Cobra...it'll just be a newer (maybe improved) version.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
@garphicguy. Congrats on buying the Cobra. If you had decided on something else, I was going to ask you for the guy's contact info. Speaking of flying, kids just landed in Munich this morning. We are flying into Hamburg later today and they will meet us in a couple of days. Taking care of my mother's final wish for her ashes. See everyone in a week.
Be careful, I mean it.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
If it wasn't so hot out today, I'd detail her and slap on a coat of wax. Easier to drive than I was expecting. Clutch is a bit heavy, but engagement is positive and the the shifter is properly precise and weighted. Brakes are fine. Steering is better than I thought it would be. It has a little body flex, but I expected that. Probably runs as well as it did off the showroom floor. And, surprising for an 18 year old car. More comfortable than I was expecting, too.
Makes great noises. Not as fast as the current crop of muscle cars, but plenty fast to have some fun with. DId a burn out, just because I could. Got some applause from innocent bystanders, too.
Wow! That is showroom condition. My ideal low mile car. You made a smart move.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
TA-DA! I'm green with envy right now. My sunroof isn't quite doing it for me in this glorious Norcal weather.
Besides I'm only allowed to drive V8 stickshift cars under adult supervision. Last one I had...well...I was bad....I was real bad.....
GOOD ANGEL (on right shoulder): You know, Shifty, you are on public roads, and driving too fast is simply irresponsibile...
BAD ANGEL (on left shoulder) Oh, right, listen to little goody two wings over there. Man, there isn't a car or a house or an animal within miles of this road. Punch it a little, you weenie. After all, this is why you bought the darn thing....
GA: Shifty, remember the last time on that curvy mountain road when you almost cleaved the mirror off that RV coming around a blind curve?
BA: And whose fault was that?....road hog!
SHIFTY: Shut up, you guys. I'm trying to drive here.....
Hmmmm, I've heard that couch time with a therapist is on the high side in CA.
Probably just as well. No one has the right to take that kind of fun away from a guy who likes driving.
jmonroe
Exactly----man needs 4 things to survive on earth.....air, water, food and a sports car.
TA-DA! I'm green with envy right now. My sunroof isn't quite doing it for me in this glorious Norcal weather.
Besides I'm only allowed to drive V8 stickshift cars under adult supervision. Last one I had...well...I was bad....I was real bad.....
GOOD ANGEL (on right shoulder): You know, Shifty, you are on public roads, and driving too fast is simply irresponsibile...
BAD ANGEL (on left shoulder) Oh, right, listen to little goody two wings over there. Man, there isn't a car or a house or an animal within miles of this road. Punch it a little, you weenie. After all, this is why you bought the darn thing....
GA: Shifty, remember the last time on that curvy mountain road when you almost cleaved the mirror off that RV coming around a blind curve?
BA: And whose fault was that?....road hog!
SHIFTY: Shut up, you guys. I'm trying to drive here.....
Hmmmm, I've heard that couch time with a therapist is on the high side in CA.
Probably just as well. No one has the right to take that kind of fun away from a guy who likes driving.
jmonroe
Exactly----man needs 4 things to survive on earth.....air, water, food and a sports car.
You forgot whiskey.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
Thanks all. I have a great bunch of friends here at Edmunds (or should I say, ENABLERS)..... Tooling around for the last couple of hours.....here she is.
You definitely made the right decision. Not only is it the world;s best bargain, but that interior looks nice than the black one.
Thanks all. I have a great bunch of friends here at Edmunds (or should I say, ENABLERS)..... Tooling around for the last couple of hours.....here she is.
Congratulations on the Mustang. When you didn't take the $1K under expected price at Interstate, I guessed you'd go for the Cobra. It is perfect for your wants that you described and it's a seductive combo with the convertible and performance at a great price IMHO.
OK I am here in our local open air shopping Center during a celebration ( restutants selling there food type thing) and listen to a live band band play Pink Floyds "The Wall". HyThe sad thing is that while I was I High school that song came out and my class mates were changing the lyrics to "Just another kid in the crawl".
The problem is that was when John Wayne Gacek was found with several dead teenage boys dead in his crawlspace and this is what kids were referring to in the changes lyrics. This happened within two miles of where I lived and these kids were my age. That hit very close to hone as several of those kids attended my high school when I was in high school. This [non-permissible content removed] hit way to close to home, it really makes one think. To this day I hate that song and it still bothers me.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
The problem is that was when John Wayne Gacek was found with several dead teenage boys dead in his crawlspace and this is what kids were referring to in the changes lyrics. .
I was selling books at the time and that was one I remember selling. He would dress up as a clown for kids parties, and lure them... he killed 33 young men.
True crime is one of the top topics....one day I went to a large store because I wanted to do some research on who was buying true crime stories. Turned out a lot of them were bought by little old ladies!
So, shopping done. Won't keep you in suspense. Drove the Cobra and it is "All That".
I think Snakeweasal put it into perspective for me.....drop top, great condition, fun, it's a Cobra. I bought it last night.
Thought about it. What tilted it was tying up $37K on a car I'll only drive 5 months out of the year. And, I doubt I'll ever run into a car like the Cobra ever again. If I decide to sell it, I won't lose nearly the money I would lose on the new GT.
Don't get me wrong....GT was a fun drive. And, for all intents and purposes, the price was right.
The Cobra was tough to pass up, though. It's practically an 18 year old new car. In two years, I'll be able to put historical plates on it.
The seller ended up being a nice guy. Not sure if I mentioned, his wife bought the Cobra new for him on their 20th wedding anniversary. It's never seen rain, nor snow....always garaged. All paperwork on it, even the MSRP sticker...oil change receipts, new tires (to replace the ones that had flat spots, new battery, new convertible boot (he said the old one never fit right, so he bought a new one, which does fit right).
Just a very, very nice car.
Craig....I would have jumped all over that GT on the spot with the offer they made if I didn't have the Cobra on the table, too. I told them that I was looking at the Cobra, also.
It really was a tough choice because the new Mustangs are probably the performance bargains of this decade. They are a little soft in the handling dept (my CTS actually does a better job), but man are they fun. Plus, they've got all the track apps (of which I'd use maybe a dozen times) and all the modern stuff cars come with these days like bluetooth, heated/cooled seats, etc.
For a nice weather weekend car, I think the Cobra will do just fine.
Got to get the title transferred today and will take pics, then.
Thanks for everyone's input. You guys have all been helpful.
Sounds like a chick magnet, have fun and congrats.
Speaking of cars (just to get off the other topic)...my friend with the Audi S8 had to buy a new set of tires.......he has just under 10000 miles on his car. He likes having 20 inch tires so the replacement tires cost $800 each! I calculate he will be doing this about once a year. Since the car has AWD he can get through snow, though the tires aren't of much help.
I asked him if he will be buying another Audi and he said he certainly would consider it - he likes the car a lot.
I guess I am just to practical to buy a car that needs new tires after 10k miles, and what I really don't understand is, does it ride and handle that much better in everyday driving that it would be worth it?
@graphicguy Nice choice, I really like the colors and the condition is outstanding. I bet you could keep it a few years and sell it for damn near what you paid. IMO you made the right choice!
Speaking of cars (just to get off the other topic)...my friend with the Audi S8 had to buy a new set of tires.......he has just under 10000 miles on his car. He likes having 20 inch tires so the replacement tires cost $800 each! I calculate he will be doing this about once a year. Since the car has AWD he can get through snow, though the tires aren't of much help.
I asked him if he will be buying another Audi and he said he certainly would consider it - he likes the car a lot.
I guess I am just to practical to buy a car that needs new tires after 10k miles, and what I really don't understand is, does it ride and handle that much better in everyday driving that it would be worth it?
It doesn't make sense to most of us, but does buying an A8 for everyday driving make any sense to us either?
Driver....WOW...an S8. Great car. That said, as beautiful as it is, I like your E400 as much, probably more. I remember when you bought it and posted pics. It's probably the prettiest Benz I've ever seen.
I guess I am just to practical to buy a car that needs new tires after 10k miles, and what I really don't understand is, does it ride and handle that much better in everyday driving that it would be worth it?
You and me both, especially when it's a $3,200 expense.
But then again I am looking at a vehicle (note I didn't say car) that would need new tires between 10-15K miles, but then it would be less than $250 to replace both.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
I can understand the Stallion emblem on Ford Mustang's pony car, but what about the Cobra emblem does any one know the history and the symbolism behind the Cobra emblem?
GG, I noticed the cobra emblem on your Mustang. Is it original or aftermarket, and was that a deciding factor in buying that particular model?
I think it's pretty unanimous, buying the Cobra was the right move. I don't think that's something you will ever regret. Long after you have moved on to other things, you will remember and talk about it.
I did wax the Passat TDI yesterday. I was under the carport, in the shade, but the temperature was high 90's with a heat index approaching 110. I have come around to paying someone else to wax more often than not, but I like to do the first one myself. Gives me the chance to go over the car, looking for defects. Establishes a baseline, if you will, especially on a used car.
Looking at the pictures, and hearing the history on that Cobra, that probably isn't necessary. Sounds like there aren't going to be any imperfections on that beauty! And I admit to being a bit envious, I may make money on this Passat but I am not going to have the kind of fun you are!
I can understand the Stallion emblem on Ford Mustang's pony car, but what about the Cobra emblem does any one know the history and the symbolism behind the Cobra emblem?
GG, I noticed the cobra emblem on your Mustang. Is it original or aftermarket, and was that a deciding factor in buying that particular model?
BWIA....can't add much more than those who have already chimed in.
The Cobra I bought is bone stock. All emblems, names, etc are as they were when it came from the factory.
The SVT on the trunk lid stands for "Special Vehicle Team", started by Ford in '91. They were chartered to make high performance vehicles out of current Ford Platforms. First was the Cobra (a descendant of Shelby's Ford Mustang based Cobras).
At the time, the SVT was a step above even the Mach 1 Mustang. They were also responsible for the Ford GT in '05-'06.
The engine in my Cobra was hand built and assembled. The team who made the motor actually signed it.
I'm just learning more about it as I look through all the paperwork that came with it.
Driver....WOW...an S8. Great car. That said, as beautiful as it is, I like your E400 as much, probably more. I remember when you bought it and posted pics. It's probably the prettiest Benz I've ever seen.
Two thoughts come to mind GG:
I like mine more than the 2017, which has the rear lights from the S Series, and it has a smaller rounder rear window, + We have an oversize garage, but by the time you get an S8, BMW 7 Series, MB S Class in the garage there wouldn't be enough room to walk around it. Besides, when a car is that large, a lot of the fun of driving must disappear....it would seem like a yacht or I would feel like a chauffeur.
I can understand the Stallion emblem on Ford Mustang's pony car, but what about the Cobra emblem does any one know the history and the symbolism behind the Cobra emblem?
GG, I noticed the cobra emblem on your Mustang. Is it original or aftermarket, and was that a deciding factor in buying that particular model?
BWIA....can't add much more than those who have already chimed in.
The engine in my Cobra was hand built and assembled. The team who made the motor actually signed it.
I'm just learning more about it as I look through all the paperwork that came with it.
GG hand-built engine and pedigree papers for $11k..........that was a no brainer!
Guys, on a more serious note, I have written to Mike a week ago and yesterday, but, haven't heard back. Does anyone know anything? I know he had some serious decisions to make regarding treatment.
The SVT on the trunk lid stands for "Special Vehicle Team", started by Ford in '91. They were chartered to make high performance vehicles out of current Ford Platforms. First was the Cobra (a descendant of Shelby's Ford Mustang based Cobras).
Wasn't the SVT originally in the early to mid 80's and was responsible for the 4 banger turbocharged Mustangs?
Edited to add:
It was the SVO (Special Vehicle Operations) that I was thinking about, the SVT replaced the SVO in the early 90's.
Should have looked that up before posting.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
We have an oversize garage, but by the time you get an S8, BMW 7 Series, MB S Class in the garage there wouldn't be enough room to walk around it. Besides, when a car is that large, a lot of the fun of driving must disappear....it would seem like a yacht or I would feel like a chauffeur.
I really think that large cars like that are designed more with the idea that it would be a chauffeur driven car.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
I can understand the Stallion emblem on Ford Mustang's pony car, but what about the Cobra emblem does any one know the history and the symbolism behind the Cobra emblem?
GG, I noticed the cobra emblem on your Mustang. Is it original or aftermarket, and was that a deciding factor in buying that particular model?
BWIA....can't add much more than those who have already chimed in.
The Cobra I bought is bone stock. All emblems, names, etc are as they were when it came from the factory.
The SVT on the trunk lid stands for "Special Vehicle Team", started by Ford in '91. They were chartered to make high performance vehicles out of current Ford Platforms. First was the Cobra (a descendant of Shelby's Ford Mustang based Cobras).
At the time, the SVT was a step above even the Mach 1 Mustang.
They were also responsible for the Ford GT in '05-'06.
The engine in my Cobra was hand built and assembled. The team who made the motor actually signed it.
I'm just learning more about it as I look through all the paperwork that came with it.
Perhaps I was not clear enough. I just wanted to understand the connection between the Cobra and the Mustang. Based on the results of a brief search I discovered that the Cobra symbolizes grace and speed. And since the Mustang is the epitome of speed (not sure about grace) the Cobra emblem seems apropos.
Beautiful Mustang, and for the price of about the first years depreciation on a new one. So by my thinking.....after a year you are basically driving it for free....
Beautiful Mustang, and for the price of about the first years depreciation on a new one. So by my thinking.....after a year you are basically driving it for free....
I'm going to add that to the "Drivers Method to Justify Buying Something".
In the last 3 days I have seen ads for 0% financing for Hyundai, Mitsu and Jeeps. Since most buyers are so unsophisticated and only care about monthly payments, does 0% mean anything?
We have bought cars when there was 0% financing, but we knew there was going to be a savings to us at the time. But monthly payment means little if the price of the car hasn't been discounted a good amount. I am thinking maybe just saying 0% sounds so good it will bring in customers.
2016 Jeep Cherokee NORTH | 0% UP TO 84 MONTHS $38,320
At the very bottom of their ad it says:
Pricing Information
Dealer MSRP Price $39,320 Dealer Price $38,320
I didn't see that. So they give you 0% financing, but only discount a $40k car by $1000, like 2.5% And how much will that car be discounted in a few weeks when the 2017s come out? I think I answered my own question, they don't give you the monthly cost because it isn't going to be much different than it was before the 0% sale.
In the last 3 days I have seen ads for 0% financing for Hyundai, Mitsu and Jeeps. Since most buyers are so unsophisticated and only care about monthly payments, does 0% mean anything?
Taking the 0% financing usually means the buyer forfeits any rebates. The buyer may be better off financing through a bank and taking the rebates.
In the last 3 days I have seen ads for 0% financing for Hyundai, Mitsu and Jeeps. Since most buyers are so unsophisticated and only care about monthly payments, does 0% mean anything?
We have bought cars when there was 0% financing, but we knew there was going to be a savings to us at the time. But monthly payment means little if the price of the car hasn't been discounted a good amount. I am thinking maybe just saying 0% sounds so good it will bring in customers.
2016 Jeep Cherokee NORTH | 0% UP TO 84 MONTHS $38,320
At the very bottom of their ad it says:
Pricing Information
Dealer MSRP Price $39,320 Dealer Price $38,320
I didn't see that. So they give you 0% financing, but only discount a $40k car by $1000, like 2.5% And how much will that car be discounted in a few weeks when the 2017s come out? I think I answered my own question, they don't give you the monthly cost because it isn't going to be much different than it was before the 0% sale.
I agree, a lot of buyers are only worried about their monthly payment so as long as that falls within their budget they buy. 0% financing sure does suck in the monthly payment buyers. Sometimes, not often, you get both.
I mentioned this before when Son #1 bought his '16 Kia van about 2 months ago by now. He shopped for the best price for the van via the internet at various dealers and while doing that he saw that Kia was offering 0% financing for up to 66 months so he jumped all over that offer.
When I bought my '15 Genny in May of '15, I did the internet thing too. That's how I ended up buying in Fairfax VA. I was planning on writing a check for the difference between my '09 Genny and the new one but that came to a screeching halt when I saw that Hyundai was offering 0.9% for up to 60 months regardless of the deal I was getting. However, Mrs. j only wanted to finance for 36 months because we never financed a car for more than that, ever.
I tried to tell her 60 months was the best way to go because she could always pay it off early if she wanted to. Fast forward to when we were driving to VA and Son #1 was with us. Since it was a few hour's drive from the Burgh, of course we got to talking and she mentioned that she was glad we were only financing for 36 months because now that I am retired she didn't think we should have car payments at all. So, she felt she pulled off a good compromise by going for 36 months. Well, when Son #1, who's undergraduate degree is in accounting, heard that he asked why she liked that idea. She said because that's the way we have always done it when we financed a car. I just sat there and listened while he went about convincing her to go for the 60 months. When I asked her why she believed him and not me she said, "he went to school for that and he has 2 masters degrees and you only have one degree and it isn't in accounting". She was right about that, I only have one measly degree but somehow it worked for us.
FWIW, the internet manager asked me if I severed in the military because if I did I could get an additional $500 off for that. When I said, "isn't that only for active military personnel", he assured me that he could get me the $500 discount even though I was not on active duty and he was right, I got it. All I had to do was show him a copy of my DD 214 Form.
I remember saying to Mrs. j, while he was getting his accounting degree I was working on the benefits that I would someday get for my patronage to my country. She wasn't impressed. She said, "if you divide that $500 by all those months since your discharge it doesn't amount to beans". Damn, all of a sudden she knows how to crunch numbers and she doesn't have an accounting degree either.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
Whenever I see the phrase "dealer participation may effect consumre cost", I know that taking financing promos won't net me the best OTD price for the car since the dealer is kicking in some $$$$ to get the rate down.
When I was recently shopping the new Mustang, there were quite a few manufacturer "gimmes". I found out that Ford had a $1,000 rebate, combinable with another $1,000 rebate. And, given the dealer had dropped another $1,000 off the price I was offering, there was more "trunk money" available that I didn't know about. Turns out that my son's Fiesta (which was originally in my name) that he traded for his GTI, showed up on my Ford "record" and I was elegible for another $1,000 rebate for being a current Ford customer (even though I wasn't). That's on top of using my friend's X plan price since he worked for Ford, and it was quite the deal.
Point being, it's next to impossible to keep track of everything the car manufacturers are throwing at the dealers to help make deals. I've come to the conclusion that "invoice" price is the new MSRP. It really means little when it comes to pricing a car, other than another negotiation tool.
In the last 3 days I have seen ads for 0% financing for Hyundai, Mitsu and Jeeps. Since most buyers are so unsophisticated and only care about monthly payments, does 0% mean anything?
We have bought cars when there was 0% financing, but we knew there was going to be a savings to us at the time. But monthly payment means little if the price of the car hasn't been discounted a good amount. I am thinking maybe just saying 0% sounds so good it will bring in customers.
2016 Jeep Cherokee NORTH | 0% UP TO 84 MONTHS $38,320
At the very bottom of their ad it says:
Pricing Information
Dealer MSRP Price $39,320 Dealer Price $38,320
I didn't see that. So they give you 0% financing, but only discount a $40k car by $1000, like 2.5% And how much will that car be discounted in a few weeks when the 2017s come out? I think I answered my own question, they don't give you the monthly cost because it isn't going to be much different than it was before the 0% sale.
Since it was a few hour's drive from the Burgh, of course we got to talking and she mentioned that she was glad we were only financing for 36 months because now that I am retired she didn't think we should have car payments at all. So, she felt she pulled off a good compromise by going for 36 months. Well, when Son #1, who's undergraduate degree is in accounting, heard that he asked why she liked that idea. She said because that's the way we have always done it when we financed a car. I just sat there and listened while he went about convincing her to go for the 60 months. When I asked her why she believed him and not me she said, "he went to school for that and he has 2 masters degrees and you only have one degree and it isn't in accounting". She was right about that, I only have one measly degree but somehow it worked for us.
jmonroe
The new generation do not believe in paying if you don't have to. Many of us, from our generation, like to pay things off as quickly as possible.
I like our method better, unfortunately a bit of debt can snowball, and it can become overwhelming if out of control.
Our grandson is a CA too, he thinks government debt is not a bad thing because you always have the resources to cover it.......yeh, and I wonder if he believes in the tooth fairy too! I like the old math better, pay for what you want ASAP!
Comments
Besides I'm only allowed to drive V8 stickshift cars under adult supervision.
GOOD ANGEL (on right shoulder): You know, Shifty, you are on public roads, and driving too fast is simply irresponsibile...
BAD ANGEL (on left shoulder) Oh, right, listen to little goody two wings over there. Man, there isn't a car or a house or an animal within miles of this road. Punch it a little, you weenie. After all, this is why you bought the darn thing....
GA: Shifty, remember the last time on that curvy mountain road when you almost cleaved the mirror off that RV coming around a blind curve?
BA: And whose fault was that?....road hog!
SHIFTY: Shut up, you guys. I'm trying to drive here.....
nice choice! For as much as you'll drive it, you'll get your money's worth.
Regarding air travel - I plan to sign up for TSA PRE soon, which should help with the lines.
San Jose is actually closer to the office, but there are more flight option from SFO to Denver
currently sitting at the subaru dealer. Oil change, tire rotation and a recall fix on the electronic parking brake.
Edmunds Price Checker
Edmunds Lease Calculator
Did you get a good deal? Be sure to come back and let us know! Post a pic of your new purchase or lease!
MODERATOR
2015 Subaru Outback 3.6R / 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX Prestige
It's especially useful at the hub airports (SFO, SeaTac, LAX, JFK, etc) where standard security lines on a busy day can take an hour or more.
Tooling around for the last couple of hours.....here she is.
https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8423/27879112484_e2dc5bc4d2_c.jpg
https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8064/28463669256_99a0f442a1_c.jpg
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7789/28212392080_55e4f40677_c.jpg
https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8886/28417761081_6b915b7b90_c.jpg
If it wasn't so hot out today, I'd detail her and slap on a coat of wax. Easier to drive than I was expecting. Clutch is a bit heavy, but engagement is positive and the the shifter is properly precise and weighted. Brakes are fine. Steering is better than I thought it would be. It has a little body flex, but I expected that. Probably runs as well as it did off the showroom floor. And, surprising for an 18 year old car. More comfortable than I was expecting, too.
Makes great noises. Not as fast as the current crop of muscle cars, but plenty fast to have some fun with. DId a burn out, just because I could. Got some applause from innocent bystanders, too.
2021 VW Arteon SEL 4-motion, 2018 VW Passat SE w/tech, 2016 Audi Q5 Premium Plus w/tech
If it means anything, I would have made the same choice and you saved me from burning my money. @snakeweasel can confirm this but the IRS takes a dim view if you burn your money. You get hit with a whopping surtax since they feel it is a tax avoidance maneuver...seems like they consider it proof that you are burning the evidence. So, thanks for not putting me through that.
As for being too hot to wax your new beauty, I know what you mean. It's pretty damn hot here the Burgh area today too and the humidity is out of site. But, after the newness wears off in a few days and after getting a new set of tires you'll be ready for the wax thingy. I do my waxing in my almost air conditioned garage. I cut a hole in the garage duct and put in a closeable vent and leave the door open to the basement with a 20 inch breeze box sucking the cool air out of the basement and dumping it into the garage. Believe it or not it works pretty good. You otta try it my way since it ain't that bad doing it like that. Last tip, go to Harbor Freight and get this http://www.harborfreight.com/pneumatic-adjustable-roller-seat-46319.html. It sure is easy on your back using this toy to do the sides of the car.
Now all you have to do is post some glossies after it's all dolled up.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
Probably just as well. No one has the right to take that kind of fun away from a guy who likes driving.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Be careful, I mean it.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
I'd take it off your hands for $11,250!
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
I guessed you'd go for the Cobra. It is perfect for your wants that you described and it's a
seductive combo with the convertible and performance at a great price IMHO.
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
Center during a celebration ( restutants selling there food type thing) and listen to a live band band play Pink Floyds "The Wall". HyThe sad thing is that while I was I High school that song came out and my class mates were changing the lyrics to "Just another kid in the crawl".
The problem is that was when John Wayne Gacek was found with several dead teenage boys dead in his crawlspace and this is what kids were referring to in the changes lyrics. This happened within two miles of where I lived and these kids were my age. That hit very close to hone as several of those kids attended my high school when I was in high school. This [non-permissible content removed] hit way to close to home, it really makes one think. To this day I hate that song and it still bothers me.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
True crime is one of the top topics....one day I went to a large store because I wanted to do some research on who was buying true crime stories. Turned out a lot of them were bought by little old ladies!
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
I asked him if he will be buying another Audi and he said he certainly would consider it - he likes the car a lot.
I guess I am just to practical to buy a car that needs new tires after 10k miles, and what I really don't understand is, does it ride and handle that much better in everyday driving that it would be worth it?
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Nice choice, I really like the colors and the condition is outstanding. I bet you could keep it a few years and sell it for damn near what you paid. IMO you made the right choice!
2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic
It doesn't make sense to most of us, but does buying an A8 for everyday driving make any sense to us either?
2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6
Driver....WOW...an S8. Great car. That said, as beautiful as it is, I like your E400 as much, probably more. I remember when you bought it and posted pics. It's probably the prettiest Benz I've ever seen.
But then again I am looking at a vehicle (note I didn't say car) that would need new tires between 10-15K miles, but then it would be less than $250 to replace both.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
GG, I noticed the cobra emblem on your Mustang. Is it original or aftermarket, and was that a deciding factor in buying that particular model?
The name of course relates back to the Shelby Cobra of 1962
I did wax the Passat TDI yesterday. I was under the carport, in the shade, but the temperature was high 90's with a heat index approaching 110. I have come around to paying someone else to wax more often than not, but I like to do the first one myself. Gives me the chance to go over the car, looking for defects. Establishes a baseline, if you will, especially on a used car.
Looking at the pictures, and hearing the history on that Cobra, that probably isn't necessary. Sounds like there aren't going to be any imperfections on that beauty! And I admit to being a bit envious, I may make money on this Passat but I am not going to have the kind of fun you are!
The Cobra I bought is bone stock. All emblems, names, etc are as they were when it came from the factory.
The SVT on the trunk lid stands for "Special Vehicle Team", started by Ford in '91. They were chartered to make high performance vehicles out of current Ford Platforms. First was the Cobra (a descendant of Shelby's Ford Mustang based Cobras).
At the time, the SVT was a step above even the Mach 1 Mustang.
They were also responsible for the Ford GT in '05-'06.
The engine in my Cobra was hand built and assembled. The team who made the motor actually signed it.
I'm just learning more about it as I look through all the paperwork that came with it.
I like mine more than the 2017, which has the rear lights from the S Series, and it has a smaller rounder rear window,
+
We have an oversize garage, but by the time you get an S8, BMW 7 Series, MB S Class in the garage there wouldn't be enough room to walk around it. Besides, when a car is that large, a lot of the fun of driving must disappear....it would seem like a yacht or I would feel like a chauffeur.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Guys, on a more serious note, I have written to Mike a week ago and yesterday, but, haven't heard back. Does anyone know anything? I know he had some serious decisions to make regarding treatment.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Edited to add:
It was the SVO (Special Vehicle Operations) that I was thinking about, the SVT replaced the SVO in the early 90's.
Should have looked that up before posting.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
We have bought cars when there was 0% financing, but we knew there was going to be a savings to us at the time. But monthly payment means little if the price of the car hasn't been discounted a good amount. I am thinking maybe just saying 0% sounds so good it will bring in customers.
2016 Jeep Cherokee NORTH | 0% UP TO 84 MONTHS $38,320
At the very bottom of their ad it says:
Pricing Information
Dealer MSRP Price $39,320
Dealer Price $38,320
I didn't see that. So they give you 0% financing, but only discount a $40k car by $1000, like 2.5% And how much will that car be discounted in a few weeks when the 2017s come out? I think I answered my own question, they don't give you the monthly cost because it isn't going to be much different than it was before the 0% sale.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
The buyer may be better off financing through a bank and taking the rebates.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=ArjFS2_uJk4
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
I don't even get zip-lining....like what's the point?
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
I mentioned this before when Son #1 bought his '16 Kia van about 2 months ago by now. He shopped for the best price for the van via the internet at various dealers and while doing that he saw that Kia was offering 0% financing for up to 66 months so he jumped all over that offer.
When I bought my '15 Genny in May of '15, I did the internet thing too. That's how I ended up buying in Fairfax VA. I was planning on writing a check for the difference between my '09 Genny and the new one but that came to a screeching halt when I saw that Hyundai was offering 0.9% for up to 60 months regardless of the deal I was getting. However, Mrs. j only wanted to finance for 36 months because we never financed a car for more than that, ever.
I tried to tell her 60 months was the best way to go because she could always pay it off early if she wanted to. Fast forward to when we were driving to VA and Son #1 was with us. Since it was a few hour's drive from the Burgh, of course we got to talking and she mentioned that she was glad we were only financing for 36 months because now that I am retired she didn't think we should have car payments at all. So, she felt she pulled off a good compromise by going for 36 months. Well, when Son #1, who's undergraduate degree is in accounting, heard that he asked why she liked that idea. She said because that's the way we have always done it when we financed a car. I just sat there and listened while he went about convincing her to go for the 60 months. When I asked her why she believed him and not me she said, "he went to school for that and he has 2 masters degrees and you only have one degree and it isn't in accounting". She was right about that, I only have one measly degree but somehow it worked for us.
FWIW, the internet manager asked me if I severed in the military because if I did I could get an additional $500 off for that. When I said, "isn't that only for active military personnel", he assured me that he could get me the $500 discount even though I was not on active duty and he was right, I got it. All I had to do was show him a copy of my DD 214 Form.
I remember saying to Mrs. j, while he was getting his accounting degree I was working on the benefits that I would someday get for my patronage to my country. She wasn't impressed. She said, "if you divide that $500 by all those months since your discharge it doesn't amount to beans". Damn, all of a sudden she knows how to crunch numbers and she doesn't have an accounting degree either.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
When I was recently shopping the new Mustang, there were quite a few manufacturer "gimmes". I found out that Ford had a $1,000 rebate, combinable with another $1,000 rebate. And, given the dealer had dropped another $1,000 off the price I was offering, there was more "trunk money" available that I didn't know about. Turns out that my son's Fiesta (which was originally in my name) that he traded for his GTI, showed up on my Ford "record" and I was elegible for another $1,000 rebate for being a current Ford customer (even though I wasn't). That's on top of using my friend's X plan price since he worked for Ford, and it was quite the deal.
Point being, it's next to impossible to keep track of everything the car manufacturers are throwing at the dealers to help make deals. I've come to the conclusion that "invoice" price is the new MSRP. It really means little when it comes to pricing a car, other than another negotiation tool.
I like our method better, unfortunately a bit of debt can snowball, and it can become overwhelming if out of control.
Our grandson is a CA too, he thinks government debt is not a bad thing because you always have the resources to cover it.......yeh, and I wonder if he believes in the tooth fairy too! I like the old math better, pay for what you want ASAP!
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250