Chronic Car Buyers Anonymous (Archived)

corvette

qbrozen said:

corvette said:

Help enable me, guys. What else should I be looking at? My criteria at this point is something with a 0-60 of 6-ish seconds, and Bluetooth audio streaming. Strongly prefer a backup cam and xenon/HID/LED lights. I’d consider another coupe if it has a high seating position.

Chrysler 300, Buick Regal Turbo or Lacrosse, Mercedes C300, BMW 328i, Taurus SHO? I’d consider something like an Impala or Avalon if the price were right.

Missing some key info from your demands. Price range? Age range? Mileage range? What do you mean by high seating position? I mean, the coupe versions of many of those on your list are just the same as their sedans. Do you have a RWD/AWD preference? Is a CUV out of the question?

Price range: $20k-ish and under. I'd do one of the used 2015 C300s at eimports4less at $23-24k if that's the best I come up with (I was really fond of the way the rental C220d drove, other than the engine, so I probably need to drive a C300).
Age range: Not sure. 2010 or newer? I'd like it to have better infotainment than my 2009 Tahoe.
Mileage range: Condition concerns me more than mileage.
Drivetrain: No preference.
CUV: Not out of the question, but I do already have an SUV that I plan to keep, so it's not going to offer any extra utility in terms of being able to haul things.

stickguy

want a Genny?

http://www.royaleasing.com/detail-2010-hyundai-genesis-used-18041516.html

how about a mini Lexus?

http://www.royaleasing.com/detail-2013-lexus-is_250-4dr_sport_sedan_automatic_rwd-used-17965688.html

28firefighter

Congrats @jpp5862! Looking forward to seeing pictures. 

nyccarguy

Way to go @jpp5862 !  Congrats!  I can’t wait to see the pics!

nyccarguy

@corvette - would you consider a MINI Cooper S Hard Top with an Automatic?  That might fit the bill. Plenty of CPO inventory to choose from.

corvette

Price is right on the Genesis! IDK that the IS250 would perform adequately. An IS350, I'd consider.

So, apparently there is a $6,000 incentive on 2018 Chrysler 300s. One dealer has a base model ($30k sticker) advertised for a hair over $20k. Only a few grand more than a used 2015 300 Limited, and you lose heated leather seats (but get a brand new vehicle).

corvette

nyccarguy said:

@corvette - would you consider a MINI Cooper S Hard Top with an Automatic?  That might fit the bill. Plenty of CPO inventory to choose from.

I'm just not that enamored with MINI. I think I'd prefer something more luxurious.

stickguy

Corvette, I must have missed a post or 2. Remind me here. What are you looking to replace, and what type of driving are you planning to do with the new car?

corvette

stickguy said:

Corvette, I must have missed a post or 2. Remind me here. What are you looking to replace, and what type of driving are you planning to do with the new car?

I don't think you missed any posts, it was just me being spontaneous. I dumped the Mustang GT due to the fact that I wasn't driving it that much, and the seating position was uncomfortable. So, I'm looking for something sportier than my daily driver (2009 Chevrolet Tahoe LT2 Z71), that I can also use semi-regularly. I really like the current generation C-class, but am very open to other options. The VW CC was kind of a let down. I may find a Genesis locally and take that on a test drive in the next few days.

qbrozen

corvette said:

corvette said:

Help enable me, guys. What else should I be looking at? My criteria at this point is something with a 0-60 of 6-ish seconds, and Bluetooth audio streaming. Strongly prefer a backup cam and xenon/HID/LED lights. I’d consider another coupe if it has a high seating position. Chrysler 300, Buick Regal Turbo or Lacrosse, Mercedes C300, BMW 328i, Taurus SHO? I’d consider something like an Impala or Avalon if the price were right.

Missing some key info from your demands. Price range? Age range? Mileage range? What do you mean by high seating position? I mean, the coupe versions of many of those on your list are just the same as their sedans. Do you have a RWD/AWD preference? Is a CUV out of the question?

Price range: $20k-ish and under. I'd do one of the used 2015 C300s at eimports4less at $23-24k if that's the best I come up with (I was really fond of the way the rental C220d drove, other than the engine, so I probably need to drive a C300). Age range: Not sure. 2010 or newer? I'd like it to have better infotainment than my 2009 Tahoe. Mileage range: Condition concerns me more than mileage. Drivetrain: No preference. CUV: Not out of the question, but I do already have an SUV that I plan to keep, so it's not going to offer any extra utility in terms of being able to haul things.

Infiniti comes to mind. EX35/G37. Volvo S60 T6. Jag XF 5.0

nyccarguy

qbrozen said:

corvette said:

qbrozen said:

corvette said:

Help enable me, guys. What else should I be looking at? My criteria at this point is something with a 0-60 of 6-ish seconds, and Bluetooth audio streaming. Strongly prefer a backup cam and xenon/HID/LED lights. I’d consider another coupe if it has a high seating position.

Chrysler 300, Buick Regal Turbo or Lacrosse, Mercedes C300, BMW 328i, Taurus SHO? I’d consider something like an Impala or Avalon if the price were right.

Missing some key info from your demands. Price range? Age range? Mileage range? What do you mean by high seating position? I mean, the coupe versions of many of those on your list are just the same as their sedans. Do you have a RWD/AWD preference? Is a CUV out of the question?

Price range: $20k-ish and under. I'd do one of the used 2015 C300s at eimports4less at $23-24k if that's the best I come up with (I was really fond of the way the rental C220d drove, other than the engine, so I probably need to drive a C300).
Age range: Not sure. 2010 or newer? I'd like it to have better infotainment than my 2009 Tahoe.
Mileage range: Condition concerns me more than mileage.
Drivetrain: No preference.
CUV: Not out of the question, but I do already have an SUV that I plan to keep, so it's not going to offer any extra utility in terms of being able to haul things.

Infiniti comes to mind. EX35/G37. Volvo S60 T6. Jag XF 5.0

I'm very happy with my Infiniti. They are priced very nicely compared with the power you get. I think my Q40 AWD was clocked at a tick or 2 under 6 seconds. It is no where near as composed as the Germans, but with a set of Front & Rear sway bars (Hotchkins) and some upgraded Vented brakes you'll be hard pressed to find a better value for your dollar.

ab348

corvette said:

I don't think you missed any posts, it was just me being spontaneous. I dumped the Mustang GT due to the fact that I wasn't driving it that much, and the seating position was uncomfortable. So, I'm looking for something sportier than my daily driver (2009 Chevrolet Tahoe LT2 Z71), that I can also use semi-regularly. I really like the current generation C-class, but am very open to other options. The VW CC was kind of a let down. I may find a Genesis locally and take that on a test drive in the next few days.

I don't know where you are located @corvette but I see used 2016 Buick Regals with reasonably low mileage around the $20K mark. I even found a 2016 GS AWD model for under $24K in the NYC area. Regals had a steep depreciation curve which makes them a good used buy. They are quite zippy with the turbo engine and ride and handle very well. Unfortunately (IMO) many are black over black but that is a matter of taste. I think they look best in silver and you occasionally find one in metallic red or diamond white with tan interior which is a very nice combo to my eye.

corvette

I’m liking the idea of a G37. The reviews sound promising. I found a couple of used 2011 models for sale near me, so may go check one out tonight. 

jpp75

corvette said:

I’m liking the idea of a G37. The reviews sound promising. I found a couple of used 2011 models for sale near me, so may go check one out tonight. 

I had a 2012 G37x on an 18 month lease and I loved that car. As @nyccarguy said it's not quite as composed as the Germans but the value is definitely there. They aren't great on gas mileage given the 3.7 and it takes premium but I doubt either of those will be deal breakers for you.

Out of all the cars I've owned/leased it was one I should have held onto longer.

stickguy

I lose track. Where are you looking corvette?

corvette

Louisville, KY. I drove the original G35 when it first came out in 2003-ish, and liked it, but it was a brief test drive. And that was forever ago! 

stickguy

Thanks. For some reason I had you out in Seattle too!

My local guy has a 2012. I did some searching last night, and this seems to be a typical asking price.

http://www.royaleasing.com/detail-2012-infiniti-g37_sedan-4dr_x_awd-used-18051195.html

28firefighter

I think the Seattle crew is myself, @fintail, @tifighter, @murphydog, and @isellhondas. I don't think I missed anyone...

corvette

One good thing about the G37 is that there don’t seem to be significant equipment changes from year to year. It’s frustrating to have to look for certain years of one particular generation of a car because they changed the features. 

stickguy

True. Same car for a long run.

Mr_Shiftright

jpp5862 said:

So add another punch to the list. I went and picked up the C30 this morning. @breld and @michaell accompanied me and @breld was kind enough to drive us down in the Q7 which is simply a great vehicle all around.

We did a quick visual check of the exterior, a good looking car from 10 feet away, up close nothing abnormal for a 10 year old used car but also not a garage queen. A good wax and maybe clay bar will do wonders for it, hoping to do that in a couple of weeks.

The buying process was simple enough, I wasn't a huge fan of CarMax but I get the appeal for "normal" car buyers.

Long story short, I LOVE the car. The drive back to Denver from Colorado Springs was relatively uneventful, and I loved it so much I took a drive up to the mountains this afternoon. I put about 200 miles on it today and no issues, which is always good. The manual in this car is really great, the clutch has a high uptake which I prefer and the shifter is solid and easy. It's the perfect compliment to the Touareg and so fun to drive.

I'm really happy with the purchase, and @Mr_Shiftright I highly recommend this car in a manual. I'll take some pics tomorrow and post them.

Great. Let me know more as you learn things. I would only get the manual transmission.

Much turbo lag? How's the ride over rough surfaces?

nyccarguy

corvette said:

One good thing about the G37 is that there don’t seem to be significant equipment changes from year to year. It’s frustrating to have to look for certain years of one particular generation of a car because they changed the features. 

That's one of the things that drew me to the car. The same basic platform for a long time. Same basic engine/transmission for a long time. Not the latest tech, but certain models do have (1) USB port & certain cars have BlueTooth Streaming Audio. Should be a bit more updated than your Tahoe. Make sure you nudge the lever to the Left from (D) into (DS). It really changes the character of the car and has pretty much zero effect on fuel economy. You should be able to find a RWD one by you too. Just be aware of the tires on the car before you drive it. Somebody may have put a cheap set of tires to make the car more presentable at trade in.

I filled up this AM with PUG at $3.85 per gallon to the tune of 20.2 mpg.

henryn

nyccarguy said:

corvette said:

One good thing about the G37 is that there don’t seem to be significant equipment changes from year to year. It’s frustrating to have to look for certain years of one particular generation of a car because they changed the features. 

That's one of the things that drew me to the car. The same basic platform for a long time. Same basic engine/transmission for a long time. Not the latest tech, but certain models do have (1) USB port & certain cars have BlueTooth Streaming Audio. Should be a bit more updated than your Tahoe. Make sure you nudge the lever to the Left from (D) into (DS). It really changes the character of the car and has pretty much zero effect on fuel economy. You should be able to find a RWD one by you too. Just be aware of the tires on the car before you drive it. Somebody may have put a cheap set of tires to make the car more presentable at trade in.

I filled up this AM with PUG at $3.85 per gallon to the tune of 20.2 mpg.

$3.85 per gallon? I feel your pain. I filled up Saturday for $2.49 per gallon, but that was regular. I think premium was around $2.89.

The last time I had a car that used premium, I was very careful where I bought gas. The big brand names (Chevron, Exxon, etc) were running around 80 cents per gallon more for premium. The HEB gas station was usually only about 30 cents difference. Same for Sam's Club, and the Murphy station at WalMart. In general, I have found it takes more effort to find reasonably priced 93 octane than it did to find diesel when I had the TDI.

corvette

Is there a big difference in the way the AWD vs. RWD models feel? The tests I could find said maybe 0.5 second difference 0-60, so pretty negligible. 

28firefighter

I dunno - a half second on 0-60 can make a big difference. That said, I bet a RWD model is nearly impossible to find in OH-IN-KY areas. Maybe more likely in Kentucky than other places.

nyccarguy

corvette said:

Is there a big difference in the way the AWD vs. RWD models feel? The tests I could find said maybe 0.5 second difference 0-60, so pretty negligible. 

Having never driven a RWD model, I can only assume that an AWD car would tend to understeer a bit. There are also a LOT more aftermarket parts available for RWD vs. AWD if you are looking to upgrade the ride, brakes, handling...

corvette

Food for thought. I do have the Tahoe for snow duty. I’ve got three on my list, one AWD and two RWD. 

nyccarguy

henryn said:

nyccarguy said:

corvette said:

One good thing about the G37 is that there don’t seem to be significant equipment changes from year to year. It’s frustrating to have to look for certain years of one particular generation of a car because they changed the features. 

That's one of the things that drew me to the car. The same basic platform for a long time. Same basic engine/transmission for a long time. Not the latest tech, but certain models do have (1) USB port & certain cars have BlueTooth Streaming Audio. Should be a bit more updated than your Tahoe. Make sure you nudge the lever to the Left from (D) into (DS). It really changes the character of the car and has pretty much zero effect on fuel economy. You should be able to find a RWD one by you too. Just be aware of the tires on the car before you drive it. Somebody may have put a cheap set of tires to make the car more presentable at trade in.

I filled up this AM with PUG at $3.85 per gallon to the tune of 20.2 mpg.

$3.85 per gallon? I feel your pain. I filled up Saturday for $2.49 per gallon, but that was regular. I think premium was around $2.89.

The last time I had a car that used premium, I was very careful where I bought gas. The big brand names (Chevron, Exxon, etc) were running around 80 cents per gallon more for premium. The HEB gas station was usually only about 30 cents difference. Same for Sam's Club, and the Murphy station at WalMart. In general, I have found it takes more effort to find reasonably priced 93 octane than it did to find diesel when I had the TDI.

If you figure out the distance between Houston, TX & the NY/CT border (where I filled up this AM), then the extra $1.36 per gallon isn't that bad (I'm sure the gas tax in Fairfield County, CT is greater than Houston,TX).

roadburner

28firefighter said:

I dunno - a half second on 0-60 can make a big difference. That said, I bet a RWD model is nearly impossible to find in OH-IN-KY areas. Maybe more likely in Kentucky than other places.

Kentucky drivers have also been dumbed-down, most thinking that AWD is required to drive in a light shower.
Idiots.

28firefighter

So I received a quote from Hagerty for classic car coverage for the Saab. For comprehensive $100/$300 coverage, personal injury, glass coverage, etc. and assuming non-daily driver status at 2500 miles a year, they're quoting me $310 a year/$155 every 6 months. This is for declared value of $10,000.

Seems reasonable - thoughts?

corvette

Sounds like a great deal. I have higher liability limits than that, though. 

28firefighter

It jumps to $358 if I change it to 250/500 and 500k PD. Seems worthwhile...

Mr_Shiftright

28firefighter said:

So I received a quote from Hagerty for classic car coverage for the Saab. For comprehensive $100/$300 coverage, personal injury, glass coverage, etc. and assuming non-daily driver status at 2500 miles a year, they're quoting me $310 a year/$155 every 6 months. This is for declared value of $10,000.

Seems reasonable - thoughts?

That's pretty good for your area I think. They require a minimum value of around $7,500 for the more modern "limited edition" type cars, such as yours, so carrying $10K value seems about right, if a bit of overkill. You might think about how much you'd like to receive for a total loss vs. the premiums you're paying for $10K.

28firefighter

Mr_Shiftright said:

28firefighter said:

So I received a quote from Hagerty for classic car coverage for the Saab. For comprehensive $100/$300 coverage, personal injury, glass coverage, etc. and assuming non-daily driver status at 2500 miles a year, they're quoting me $310 a year/$155 every 6 months. This is for declared value of $10,000.

Seems reasonable - thoughts?

That's pretty good for your area I think. They require a minimum value of around $7,500 for the more modern "limited edition" type cars, such as yours, so carrying $10K value seems about right, if a bit of overkill. You might think about how much you'd like to receive for a total loss vs. the premiums you're paying for $10K.

I'm into it for about 7500 after the purchase + repairs. I dropped it to $0 deductible, $7500 value, $250/$500 coverage, and let go of their Hagerty Plus towing since I already have AAA. That dropped the premium to $292. Seems more reasonable? If I do all of that and $8500, it's $310.

I doubt I could get a driver's car properly sorted for less than $7500. Realistically.

Mr_Shiftright

Doesn't seem like that much of a savings. Why $0 deductible? And yes, you don't need towing. I wonder what $500 deductible gets you?

28firefighter

All the same with $8500 coverage and $500 deductible, it drops to $283. I selected it just to see how much more it was with 0 deductible and it wasn't that much more.

ab348

My Cutlass is with Hagerty and has a declared value about twice that. I pay $140/year. Advantages of living in sleepy little Nova Scotia I suppose. 

qbrozen

corvette said:

Is there a big difference in the way the AWD vs. RWD models feel? The tests I could find said maybe 0.5 second difference 0-60, so pretty negligible. 

I can't speak specifically to the G37, but given the same platform, etc, maybe it applies.

I never found a real-world performance penalty in my G35X vs the RWD equivalent. As a matter of fact, I had an impromptu highway 40 to 85 race with a coupe and walked on him ever so slightly. The coupe is heavier, I believe. The G's AWD is rear biased and IIRC only adds like 150 lb, so I be really surprised if the 0.5 sec penalty is really there on 2 vehicles tested in the same place on the same day.

Not sure anyone remembers, but I raced my G35X as well. It did well at the autocross, always running neck and neck with a mazdaspeed3, with us bouncing back and forth 1st and 2nd place each event. At NJ motorsports HPDE, it was entertaining. Very neutral slides. Easy to push to its limits and correct when trouble loomed. Comments I always got at both types of events were "how the hell do you make a limo move that fast!"

28firefighter

@qbrozen - what's the story with your Stelvio?

qbrozen

Ha. Just came here to update. The paperwork just went out today for tomorrow delivery. I then sign and get notarized and send back for Thurs delivery. So earliest to be picked up is Friday. I'm trying to arrange transport now.

I had the F&I person email me the lease agreement. It is exactly as stated. I think they may be a bit off on taxes but we'll see. As it is, looks like they are charging tax on all incentives.

leasehackr.com/calculator?make=Alfa_Romeo&msrp=48090&sales_price=40876&months=24&mf=.00009&dp=0&doc_fee=300&acq_fee=595&taxed_inc=5750&untaxed_inc=0&rebate=0&resP=60&reg_fee=333&sales_tax=6.8&memo=&zero_driveoff=true&totalLeaseTax_radio=true&miles=12000&msd=0

28firefighter

They charged me tax on the $3750 - nothing else. My guess is it largely depends on your state.

28firefighter

Such a great deal, too! Yours is almost identical to mine if you do your driveoffs upfront.

qbrozen

And mine is 12k.
probably makes up for your large state fees.

qbrozen

I wrote her back asking for the tax breakdown because I can't seem to come up with the $868 they have listed.

28firefighter

Yep you're right on the mileage - I think yours is the new floor, which is helped by the fact that the MF is lower on a Ti vs. a non-Ti.

Agree on double checking the taxes. Not much you can do about it and them being an out of state dealer, you want them to err on the side of caution.

Either way, for this kind of money, it's kind of hard to beat. Wait til you drive this thing with the sport suspension...it's going to knock your socks off.

28firefighter

In case anyone is worried here about the Saab, it'll be out to play this weekend. Planning to swing over and swap cars on Thursday night.

tifighter

This is fun. Things have picked up around here. Breld's new Miata already feels like it was awhile ago.

28firefighter

We all feed off one another.

Michaell

28firefighter said:

We all feed off one another.

Tell me about it .. I was in the Q7 with @breld yesterday, driving home from the CarMax after @jpp5862 signed his papers on the C30, and I was looking up used sporty cars with manual transmissions.

Because, hey, you never know...

28firefighter

I have to wonder if your trio is becoming infamous at Denver area dealers!