Oh, I think I'm going to rule out those two Olds Auroras I posted earlier. One little detail I had forgotten about is that they're in Virginia, while I'm in Maryland
And it's quite easy on the eyes, RWD, and more modern than any of those other cars you are looking at. And I bet you could get it for $8 grand with a little trying.....
No leather or sunroof though. Are those deal-breakers?
2014 Mini Cooper (stick shift of course), 2016 Camry hybrid, 2009 Outback Sport 5-spd (keeping the stick alive)
A nice 500E still brings a pretty penny...probably upper teens anyway, where a normal W124 is a lot less. And if the car is exceptional with low mileage...owners exercise free speech and ask the world for them. Of course, it's a completely different animal than a normal W124 and just as special as the period AMG cars.
I think the only thing that bugs me about that '03 is the combo of miles and price. 90K miles, $7995. I guess mentally I'm just thinking that the '00 Bonneville with 65K miles and $4734 is more car for the money...but I know you're anxious to see me anything other than that Bonneville! :shades: And, I'm sure they'd be willing to bargain on that Aurora. Might be worthwhile to at least look at it.
With those Chargers and 300's, I wouldn't care about the leather, and if the price is right would forgo the sunroof. But if I'm going with one of these cars, I'd want a 3.5. I know, I'm getting picky!
No 2000 Bonneville for me. I called the dealership to ask about the car. Salesguy said that they still had it, but took my number because he wanted to check and make sure it hadn't been sold. Well, I decided to take a chance and hit the road. As soon as I merged onto the parking lot otherwise known as the Baltimore-Washington Parkway, he called back. It's sold. Oh well. I only had to sit in traffic for about 2 minutes, got off at the next exit, and came back home on the back roads.
But seriously, Rubbermaid interiors with buttons that came off kids' toys? Powertrains with 20+ years of history and little in the way of updates? If you're looking for a car that's 5-10 years old, there are so many better choices at the General than the Pontiacs, G8s excluded. That's before we even TALK about styling (subjective, I know, and I could maybe see how that last generation of Bonnevilles could be attractive, kind of).
Heck, you liked those Auras when they came out, and the oldest ones are like 2-3 years old now, right? I bet the '06/07s are in the $10K range or even less by now. Might be worth looking for one of those....
2014 Mini Cooper (stick shift of course), 2016 Camry hybrid, 2009 Outback Sport 5-spd (keeping the stick alive)
All the equipment and the same power as the new Altima you were thinking about, with better looks, for a solid $8000 less (and still under manufacturer warranty)!
:-) :-)
2014 Mini Cooper (stick shift of course), 2016 Camry hybrid, 2009 Outback Sport 5-spd (keeping the stick alive)
As the resident Saturnista in the group, I'm amazed that I didn't think of the Aura for Andre.
If it were me, I'd take the '09 with the 4-cyl and the 6-speed auto. Better mileage (32/33 on the highway) and it has the paddles behind the steering wheel to control what gear you're in.
The only downside, if any, is that the Aura is a bit porky. My L300 is around 3200 pounds - when the Aura was released, I was amazed to find out that it was around 3800 pounds! Yes, it's a big larger than my L, but still ....
The only other nit that I have - and it's a small one - is that the design of the trunk area didn't allow for a place or a way to close the trunklid - you've got to put your hands on the (possibly dirty) paint to close it. Annoying, but I suppose not a deal breaker.
I've had a Malibu rental with the 4cyl and 6AT combo and liked it. I got a 28mpg with 40/60 city/hwy split. Tons of backseat legroom, and the interior was okay. I also learned that I like remote start. A lot. Anyway, I like the looks of the Chevy a little more than the Aura, but that's me.
Well, Bonnevilles aren't totally out of the running yet. I found this 50000 mile 2004 SLE for $11,588. Unfortunately, doesn't look like it has a sunroof. I think I really have to sit in a Bonneville and drive it, to really get it out of my system. Right now I just have myself convinced that I could live with the interior, but maybe seeing it in person will turn me off completely.
Plus, I just found this 56000 mile 2000 Park Ave Ultra for sale at the local Cadillac dealer. Unfortunately no pics and no price listed. I emailed them a request for info, and might run up tomorrow after work. They're right around the corner. In fact, if the Intrepid hadn't been totaled, my insurance company wanted to send it there to get fixed. I don't think this one has a sunroof, either. Seriously, who orders a car in this price league and doesn't get a sunroof? Oh, that's right...Buick's demographic at that time. :P
As for those Auras, I had kinda dismissed them, as in this range of car, it just seems like you get more for your money with an Altima or Accord. But looking at those prices I might have to re-think that. For instance, about the closest equivalent Altima I found was a 2008 2.5S with 38000 miles for $15K. So with,say,that '09 4-cyl Aura, I'd get a car one year newer, 6K less miles, for $3000 less. Possibly more, depending on whether they'll haggle.
This '08 Aura seems kinda nice, too. A bit more miles, 51K, but it has a sunroof and alloy wheels. Those thick 5-spoke style wheels that the other two were sporting might look like an alloy at a quick glance, but theyr'e really a steel wheel stamped outwith those big holes, and then then they have a plastic hubcap that silhouettes the wheel. Even though it's a cost-cutting measure, I still think they're attractive.
The only downside, if any, is that the Aura is a bit porky. My L300 is around 3200 pounds - when the Aura was released, I was amazed to find out that it was around 3800 pounds! Yes, it's a big larger than my L, but still ....
Wanna hear something really disgusting? The base weight of my '79 5th Ave is only 3850 lb! I think my LeMans has a base weight around 3870, while the DeSoto and Catalina only have a base weight of 3910! One thing I'll say for the Aura and Malibu though, is that they feel like extremely solid, sturdy cars. And just opening the door and looking in the door opening area, they seem to be really beefed-up.
The only other nit that I have - and it's a small one - is that the design of the trunk area didn't allow for a place or a way to close the trunklid - you've got to put your hands on the (possibly dirty) paint to close it. Annoying, but I suppose not a deal breaker.
I've heard that mentioned before. I don't think that would bother me though, as basically, that's how my Intrepid's trunk was. When you pressed the button inside, hit the remote on the fob, or even stuck the key in the hole and turned, it would pop and raise up a bit, so you could grab under the lip. But there was no proper handle or anything to grab onto. Here's a pic of one...
(and don't worry, even though that's a Fitzmall car, I'm not interested in it. Plus, it's down in Clearwater, Florida!)
This '08 Aura seems kinda nice, too. A bit more miles, 51K, but it has a sunroof and alloy wheels. Those thick 5-spoke style wheels that the other two were sporting might look like an alloy at a quick glance, but theyr'e really a steel wheel stamped outwith those big holes, and then then they have a plastic hubcap that silhouettes the wheel. Even though it's a cost-cutting measure, I still think they're attractive.
The other thing about those steel wheels is that they're 17".
That XE you linked us to has the 3.5L V6 and, IIRC, the 4-speed auto. You have to step up to the XR to get the 3.6L V6 and the 6-speed auto (similar to what's in the wife's VUE - and the G8 V6 model).
Some other things to think about:
1) Resale value - yeah, not high on your list, as you'll keep it for 10 years and run it into the ground. However, I did a quick comparison a few weeks ago regarding my L300 and some of the other cars I was considering at the time. Turns out the '02 Altima SE V6, the '02 Accord EX-L V6 and the '02 Passat V6 4Motion are worth anywhere from $2000 to $3500 more in trade in than my L300, assuming same miles and condition.
2) Service - not sure that all Saturn dealers will close, and you should be able to get warranty work done (if you go that route) at any GM dealer.
Go check out the Bonny and get it out of your system -- I, too, think you'll be disappointed by the interior. This was when Pontiac thought it could compete with BMW by having red interior lighting and a bazillion buttons.
I checked out Bonneville's before I got my Aurora 7 years ago. I found the interior very cramped in the Bonny. I lean the seat back too in order to get some headroom , and it was tight. But with the seat all the way back my knees were rubbing the dash, and not a little bit, they were jammed against it.
The Aurora was a great car, but I would be worried about repairs on one that old.
I like the Aura idea for you, all the benefits of the Malibu but at a cheaper price. The interior is not as nice and I don't know if the trunk is the same but on the Malibu the opening is at a weird angle. The upside is you can take the Aura to any Gm dealer for warranty work.
I always thought the Aura was better-looking than the Malibu, and hey, it's now orphaned - right up andre's alley.
I've always preferred the style of the Aura to the Malibu, as well. I think with the Malibu, there's just something about the front-end that looks a bit swollen. And I'm just not crazy about the grille, the way it has the small upper part, the larger lower part under the divide, and then the opening in the air dam underneath...just too much going on. I think the Saturn looks better, having more of a proper grille, with a little chrome on it. And the front fascia at least gives the impression of having a slight bumper, which helps reduce that swollen look IMO.
As for the interiors, I really can't tell the difference between the Malibu and Aura, at least not from a standpoint as to which is supposed to be the more upscale of the two. Either one's respectable IMO.
I agree on the styling on the Aura vs. the Malibu. I think the Aura is very attractive. Can't say the same about the Malibu. The Malibu is OK but I can't go beyond that.
roadburner - come on! This is the one!
2015 Mazda 6 Grand Touring, 2014 Mazda 3 Sport Hatchback, 1999 Mazda Miata 2004 Toyota Camry LE, 1999.
Granted my 89 didn't have the vomit of buttons that the later pontiacs did.
As I recall, the '87-91 Bonneville was actually pretty tasteful inside. I think that red lighting might actually get to me after awhile, but who knows? I might get used to it? I know I don't' really care for that orangeish-red in my buddy's '06 Xterra. The worst part of it is the display for the odometers, which is housed in the speedometer face. It's actually black/gray digital numbering on an orange background. There's another cutout in the tachometer face, but I can't remember what's in there. But anyway, sometimes at a quick glance, or out of the corner of my eye, I'll see those orange lights and it'll make me think an idiot light came on.
Quite a few of the base model Chargers went to fleets or rentals.
Rental agencies typically ordered the bare bones models with the small 2.7L V6, and a power seat (to accomodate all sizes of drivers). The Chargers themselves are not bad cars. They have decent handling owing to the old Mercedes E class rear suspension geometry, good amounts of space, well equipped for a base model with power everything, a/c, CD with auxiliary jack, and tilt and telescoping wheel, ABS, ESP, and Traction Control too.
I even don't mind the hubcaps, because you can take them off and roll on black steel wheels, making you look like highway patrol, especially with the dull grey colored exterior.
And for $10k, it's not a bad price even if it is an ex rental.
I personally would like a Charger Daytona in orange color. :shades:
I'm not a big Pontiac fan but I always did like the looks of the last Bonneville so I can see where Andre is coming from.
My ex had a Sunfire and I hated driving that pos. I agree about the red interior lighting and the horrible plastics in and out. At least they toned down the exteriors during the poast 5 or so years.
Note the funny vent cluster tacked on to the dash on the right side.
Conversation heard at Pontaic's design centre:
"Ok we finished the dash for the new Bonneville" "Umm, what about air vents in the middle?" "Ooops, let's just tack on this extra pod with them" "Short of redesigning the whole thing, that'll be our only choice"
is still showing up on that Fitzmall website, so I called them to see if, by some freak of nature, the deal last night fell through and it was still available. It went to voicemail, so I left a message. I have a feeling that it did sell, and the website just hasn't been updated yet.
Oh, and they do have another Bonneville, but it's a high-mile 1999. I don't like the exterior style of the '92-99 as much, although the interior definitely seems more tasteful! Price actually doesn't seem too bad at $2600, and the car looks like it's in nice shape. But I don't want to take a chance on a 159,000 mile car that I'm not familiar with.
I had a Charger as a rental and it was not a bad car at all, as a matter of fact I was surprised at how much I liked it. Roomy, great ride, comfortable. I'm sure it was the 2.7, but it had decent pick up. I'd love to take a spin in a R/T or Daytona with a Hemi.
2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Limited Velvet Red over Wicker Beige
2024 Audi Q5 Premium Plus Daytona Gray over Beige
2017 BMW X1 Jet Black over Mocha
Apprently that mid to late 80s BMW coupe that is sitting in my co-workers mother's/aunt's/some family member's driveway isn't a Coupe.
It is a 735i :surprise: :confuse: How do you confuse that with a BMW coupe I don't know. Still don't know the year yet and he can't get over to her house till Sunday. More to follow.
But seriously, Rubbermaid interiors with buttons that came off kids' toys?
Almost all of the encounters with GM cars over the last 25 years have been with rentals. (I never even see GM cars around here, except for Pick-ups). Most of the rentals were Pontiacs, yes with plastic-y interiors. My 90 y.o. Grandmother liked them tho. Can't even remember the models or years, they seemed like "appliances", generic.
What about a used Camry? Or are they way more expensive than a used American car?
It would be beyond hilarious if it really turns out to be a M6 or something.
Mom, says "Well you see it was kind of big so I thought it was a sedan and someone told me BMW made a 735i back then but there were not badges on this car..."
a Bonnie.....argh. Surely you can do better than that! Park Ave, Aura, Aurora--I think all of those are nicer...What's the budget again, or is that flexible?
I am very pleasantly surprised with the handling and road feel of the Camry. The SE package really makes a difference with the tightened suspension and front/rear strut tower braces with the lower profile 17" wheels. My first tank of gas was 27 MPG and I made it 400 miles on the first tank. The seats are amazingly comfortable and the JBLstereo is great, though not sure it's that much better than the stock AM/FM. But it does have integrated satelliite radio which is worth the price difference alone. .
I came across an Accord that I think might be a good car to buy and fix and sell. Its a 2005 Accord EXL coupe 5-speed manual. 51k for $9300. It needs a paint job on the trunk and rear bumper but otherwise it is spotless and clean. I think it's easily worth $11,000-$12,000 private party.
a Bonnie.....argh. Surely you can do better than that!
Yeah, I know I can, but for some twisted reason the Bonneville appeals to me! Maybe I'm just too much of a die-hard Poncho fan. I really need to go drive one and get it out of my system though, because even though there are better cars out there, if I don't at least experience it, I'll always wonder.
As for budget, well I figure the max I want to go is $6-7K down, $400 per month. But, cheaper is better!
Also, I'm guessing that whatever I get next is going to be with me for a long, long time. After all, the Intrepid made it 10 years and 150,000 miles, and was still running fine. If it hadn't gotten totaled, I'm sure it would've gone on for many more years, easily. Most of the Intrepid's miles were loaded on fairly early, too. I put on about 33000 in the first year, but slacked off after that. It took 4 more years to get it to 100,000 miles. It actually turned 100K on Christmas Eve, 2004. So then it took almost 5 more years to get it to 150K. And that included a trip down to Florida, plus for about a year and a half I was letting my roommate drive it, when he took a job out in Annapolis that was about 20 miles away. He had been using my '85 Silverado, but I didn't want him driving it that far. Even if it didn't wear the truck out, the fuel bill would've been a killer.
My guess is that whatever I buy will see 6-7000 miles per year at most, at my current rate. So if I buy brand-new, it could easily take 20 years or more to get back up to 150K!
It has the Northstar V8. Must *really* go. Nice complete set of gauges. Dash looks better than some Pontiacs from a few year earlier, I think. Mileage probably sucks.
What new cars are on your list andre?
Is 400/mo over 5 years? If you get a low interest rate, could be a 25k+ car with your downpayment. That could open up a lot of options.
The values used are great too.
Car shopping sure is fun, I think. I sweated over my last car purchase for almost a year, I think, but I like the process and loved the car at the end, so it was all good.
I think it's a nice looking car. A bit over the top, but....that doesn't seem to have bothered you before andre.
20k to start, I think. One of the big pluses but also one of the big question marks of the 2011 Sonata is the direct injection engine. Gets 34 hwy mpg, but may have maintenance issues down the line...But you've got a 10 year engine warranty.
Nice looking wheels and I dig the two-tone seats. Looks like it has nearly every factory option for that year. For some reason I thought that the Bonneville GXP had the same 5.3L truck engine as the Impala SS and the Grand Prix GXP.
I looked closely at [ and drove ] the Bonneville GXP – before buying a Grand Prix GXP – in 2005.
To me, the Bonne GXP’s North* V8 did not offer nearly the quickness [ feel ] of the ‘5.3L truck engine’ in the GP GXP.
The GP 5.3L offers low end ‘grunt’ = more TQ at low RPM.
The Bonne GXP is a mid-15 sec quarter mile car – when new. Results posted for the GP GXP were generally mid-14 sec. This is a difference most [ who care about such things ] would likely notice.
In reading through that test, it looks like the Bonneville GXP is a bit of a guzzler, too. I didn't realize they stuck a 3.70:1 axle ratio in there! I know overdrive will knock that down some, but I have a feeling it's not going to loaf along at 1500-1600 rpm @ 60 mph like my Dad's '03 Regal does!
With the Grand Prix, I know a lot of people complain about the seat comfort, but I'd imagine that the GXP model addresses those issues?
I think either a Bonneville GXP or Grand Prix GXP would be a cool car to have, but I'm probably going to lean more toward something more cheap, economical, and honestly, a bit more throwaway. I have a feeling that if I bought one of those GXP's, then given the comparative rarity, I'd try too hard to hold onto it and preserve it, and I'd feel a tremendous loss if something happened to it. Whereas something like a used Aura or even a brand-new 4-cyl Altima wouldn't elicit quite the same emotion. I guess that makes sense?
I have a feeling that if I bought one of those GXP's, then given the comparative rarity, I'd try too hard to hold onto it and preserve it, and I'd feel a tremendous loss if something happened to it. Whereas something like a used Aura or even a brand-new 4-cyl Altima wouldn't elicit quite the same emotion. I guess that makes sense?
It does make sense. If the 'Trep was the only car in your fleet, I can see getting something that's fast, unique and holds your interest. However, you've got plenty of "fun" cars - the Catalina and the DeSoto, specifically.
So, whatever you get to replace the 'Trep - be it new or used - doesn't need to make that same emotional connection with you. Hence, a used Aura or Altima.
In other words, an appliance.
Hope you're able to get out and try a few of them on. Am interested in what you end up getting. I'm pushing for the Aura, so that there will be at least one other regular poster who owns a Saturn!
Audi/VW has been using direct injection for many years now and haven't really had any problems with it. They have had plenty of problems with other things but not the direct injection.
Hope you're able to get out and try a few of them on. Am interested in what you end up getting. I'm pushing for the Aura, so that there will be at least one other regular poster who owns a Saturn!
I'm starting to think more and more about the Aura. Even though it'll still be a bit of an appliance, being an orphan still makes it a few steps off the beaten path. I know a G6 is now an orphan too, but they just don't do it for me.
Also, while I know I said I've sworn off Intrepids, I have to admit I've still been looking! I found this decent looking 2000 ES with 45000 miles on it for $4995. Nicely equipped with the 3.2, sunroof, leather, etc. But with miles that low, it almost makes me suspicious!
And this 2002 Intrepid ES sounds even better! Similar miles, but it has the more powerful 3.5. 250 hp versus 225 for the 3.2. Cloth seats though, and it looks like it has stains on the back seat.
But, I'm really trying to force myself to stay from Intrepids...if nothing else, just so I can experience something new.
Comments
25 NX 450h+ / 24 Sienna Plat AWD / 23 Civic Type-R / 21 Boxster GTS 4.0
The '03 isn't. ;-)
And then there's this: http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?ct=u&car_id=271567495&dealer_id=100006066&- - car_year=2007&rdm=1260392297643&lastStartYear=1981&model=DODCHAR&num_records=25&- - systime=&make2=&highlightFirstMakeModel=&start_year=1981&keywordsfyc=&keywordsre- - p=&engine=&certified=&body_code=0&fuel=&awsp=false&search_type=both&distance=50&- - marketZipError=false&search_lang=en&sownerid=73091&showZipError=y&make=DODGE&key- - words_display=&color=&page_location=findacar%3A%3Aispsearchform&min_price=&drive- - =&default_sort=priceDESC&seller_type=b&max_mileage=&style_flag=1&sort_type=price- - DESC&address=20769&advanced=&end_year=2010&doors=&transmission=&max_price=10000&- - cardist=17&standard=false
You would be familiar with the engine. ;-)
And it's quite easy on the eyes, RWD, and more modern than any of those other cars you are looking at. And I bet you could get it for $8 grand with a little trying.....
No leather or sunroof though.
Are those deal-breakers?
2014 Mini Cooper (stick shift of course), 2016 Camry hybrid, 2009 Outback Sport 5-spd (keeping the stick alive)
With those Chargers and 300's, I wouldn't care about the leather, and if the price is right would forgo the sunroof. But if I'm going with one of these cars, I'd want a 3.5. I know, I'm getting picky!
25 NX 450h+ / 24 Sienna Plat AWD / 23 Civic Type-R / 21 Boxster GTS 4.0
Although, it isn't that they are becoming hard to find ... unless you actually want a nice one.
From Texas, huh? That should be an advantage. I'd be interested in hearing the details of the car. Well, unless its an automatic.
'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
So, the hunt continues...
But seriously, Rubbermaid interiors with buttons that came off kids' toys? Powertrains with 20+ years of history and little in the way of updates? If you're looking for a car that's 5-10 years old, there are so many better choices at the General than the Pontiacs, G8s excluded. That's before we even TALK about styling (subjective, I know, and I could maybe see how that last generation of Bonnevilles could be attractive, kind of).
Heck, you liked those Auras when they came out, and the oldest ones are like 2-3 years old now, right? I bet the '06/07s are in the $10K range or even less by now. Might be worth looking for one of those....
2014 Mini Cooper (stick shift of course), 2016 Camry hybrid, 2009 Outback Sport 5-spd (keeping the stick alive)
http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?ct=u&car_id=270465706&dealer_id=783147&car- - _year=2009&rdm=1260405030610&lastStartYear=1981&model=AURA&num_records=25&systim- - e=&make2=&highlightFirstMakeModel=&start_year=1981&keywordsfyc=&keywordsrep=&eng- - ine=&certified=&body_code=0&fuel=&awsp=false&search_type=both&distance=25&market- - ZipError=false&search_lang=en&showZipError=y&make=SATURN&keywords_display=&color- - =&page_location=findacar%3A%3Aispsearchform&min_price=&drive=&default_sort=price- - DESC&seller_type=b&max_mileage=&style_flag=1&sort_type=priceDESC&address=20769&a- - dvanced=&end_year=2010&doors=&transmission=&max_price=12000&cardist=17&standard=- - false
6-cylinder '08, 45K miles, older-style 4-speed auto, $11,977: http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?ct=u&car_id=269835190&dealer_id=7691888&ca- - r_year=2008&rdm=1260405030610&lastStartYear=1981&model=AURA&num_records=25&systi- - me=&make2=&highlightFirstMakeModel=&start_year=1981&keywordsfyc=&keywordsrep=&en- - gine=&certified=&body_code=0&fuel=&awsp=false&search_type=both&distance=25&marke- - tZipError=false&search_lang=en&showZipError=y&make=SATURN&keywords_display=&colo- - r=&page_location=findacar%3A%3Aispsearchform&min_price=&drive=&default_sort=pric- - eDESC&seller_type=b&max_mileage=&style_flag=1&sort_type=priceDESC&address=20769&- - advanced=&end_year=2010&doors=&transmission=&max_price=12000&cardist=20&standard- - =false
All the equipment and the same power as the new Altima you were thinking about, with better looks, for a solid $8000 less (and still under manufacturer warranty)!
:-) :-)
2014 Mini Cooper (stick shift of course), 2016 Camry hybrid, 2009 Outback Sport 5-spd (keeping the stick alive)
If it were me, I'd take the '09 with the 4-cyl and the 6-speed auto. Better mileage (32/33 on the highway) and it has the paddles behind the steering wheel to control what gear you're in.
The only downside, if any, is that the Aura is a bit porky. My L300 is around 3200 pounds - when the Aura was released, I was amazed to find out that it was around 3800 pounds! Yes, it's a big larger than my L, but still ....
The only other nit that I have - and it's a small one - is that the design of the trunk area didn't allow for a place or a way to close the trunklid - you've got to put your hands on the (possibly dirty) paint to close it. Annoying, but I suppose not a deal breaker.
25 NX 450h+ / 24 Sienna Plat AWD / 23 Civic Type-R / 21 Boxster GTS 4.0
Plus, I just found this 56000 mile 2000 Park Ave Ultra for sale at the local Cadillac dealer. Unfortunately no pics and no price listed. I emailed them a request for info, and might run up tomorrow after work. They're right around the corner. In fact, if the Intrepid hadn't been totaled, my insurance company wanted to send it there to get fixed. I don't think this one has a sunroof, either. Seriously, who orders a car in this price league and doesn't get a sunroof? Oh, that's right...Buick's demographic at that time. :P
As for those Auras, I had kinda dismissed them, as in this range of car, it just seems like you get more for your money with an Altima or Accord. But looking at those prices I might have to re-think that. For instance, about the closest equivalent Altima I found was a 2008 2.5S with 38000 miles for $15K. So with,say,that '09 4-cyl Aura, I'd get a car one year newer, 6K less miles, for $3000 less. Possibly more, depending on whether they'll haggle.
This '08 Aura seems kinda nice, too. A bit more miles, 51K, but it has a sunroof and alloy wheels. Those thick 5-spoke style wheels that the other two were sporting might look like an alloy at a quick glance, but theyr'e really a steel wheel stamped outwith those big holes, and then then they have a plastic hubcap that silhouettes the wheel. Even though it's a cost-cutting measure, I still think they're attractive.
Wanna hear something really disgusting? The base weight of my '79 5th Ave is only 3850 lb! I think my LeMans has a base weight around 3870, while the DeSoto and Catalina only have a base weight of 3910! One thing I'll say for the Aura and Malibu though, is that they feel like extremely solid, sturdy cars. And just opening the door and looking in the door opening area, they seem to be really beefed-up.
The only other nit that I have - and it's a small one - is that the design of the trunk area didn't allow for a place or a way to close the trunklid - you've got to put your hands on the (possibly dirty) paint to close it. Annoying, but I suppose not a deal breaker.
I've heard that mentioned before. I don't think that would bother me though, as basically, that's how my Intrepid's trunk was. When you pressed the button inside, hit the remote on the fob, or even stuck the key in the hole and turned, it would pop and raise up a bit, so you could grab under the lip. But there was no proper handle or anything to grab onto. Here's a pic of one...
(and don't worry, even though that's a Fitzmall car, I'm not interested in it. Plus, it's down in Clearwater, Florida!)
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
The other thing about those steel wheels is that they're 17".
That XE you linked us to has the 3.5L V6 and, IIRC, the 4-speed auto. You have to step up to the XR to get the 3.6L V6 and the 6-speed auto (similar to what's in the wife's VUE - and the G8 V6 model).
Some other things to think about:
1) Resale value - yeah, not high on your list, as you'll keep it for 10 years and run it into the ground. However, I did a quick comparison a few weeks ago regarding my L300 and some of the other cars I was considering at the time. Turns out the '02 Altima SE V6, the '02 Accord EX-L V6 and the '02 Passat V6 4Motion are worth anywhere from $2000 to $3500 more in trade in than my L300, assuming same miles and condition.
2) Service - not sure that all Saturn dealers will close, and you should be able to get warranty work done (if you go that route) at any GM dealer.
Go check out the Bonny and get it out of your system -- I, too, think you'll be disappointed by the interior. This was when Pontiac thought it could compete with BMW by having red interior lighting and a bazillion buttons.
And the twin-kidney grille. That really makes a car stick to the road! :P
The Aurora was a great car, but I would be worried about repairs on one that old.
I like the Aura idea for you, all the benefits of the Malibu but at a cheaper price. The interior is not as nice and I don't know if the trunk is the same but on the Malibu the opening is at a weird angle. The upside is you can take the Aura to any Gm dealer for warranty work.
Only problem with all that red, is how do you know when one of the idiot lights comes on? :P
I always thought the Aura was better-looking than the Malibu, and hey, it's now orphaned - right up andre's alley. :-)
2014 Mini Cooper (stick shift of course), 2016 Camry hybrid, 2009 Outback Sport 5-spd (keeping the stick alive)
I've always preferred the style of the Aura to the Malibu, as well. I think with the Malibu, there's just something about the front-end that looks a bit swollen. And I'm just not crazy about the grille, the way it has the small upper part, the larger lower part under the divide, and then the opening in the air dam underneath...just too much going on. I think the Saturn looks better, having more of a proper grille, with a little chrome on it. And the front fascia at least gives the impression of having a slight bumper, which helps reduce that swollen look IMO.
As for the interiors, I really can't tell the difference between the Malibu and Aura, at least not from a standpoint as to which is supposed to be the more upscale of the two. Either one's respectable IMO.
roadburner - come on! This is the one!
Granted my 89 didn't have the vomit of buttons that the later pontiacs did.
As I recall, the '87-91 Bonneville was actually pretty tasteful inside. I think that red lighting might actually get to me after awhile, but who knows? I might get used to it? I know I don't' really care for that orangeish-red in my buddy's '06 Xterra. The worst part of it is the display for the odometers, which is housed in the speedometer face. It's actually black/gray digital numbering on an orange background. There's another cutout in the tachometer face, but I can't remember what's in there. But anyway, sometimes at a quick glance, or out of the corner of my eye, I'll see those orange lights and it'll make me think an idiot light came on.
Rental agencies typically ordered the bare bones models with the small 2.7L V6, and a power seat (to accomodate all sizes of drivers). The Chargers themselves are not bad cars. They have decent handling owing to the old Mercedes E class rear suspension geometry, good amounts of space, well equipped for a base model with power everything, a/c, CD with auxiliary jack, and tilt and telescoping wheel, ABS, ESP, and Traction Control too.
I even don't mind the hubcaps, because you can take them off and roll on black steel wheels, making you look like highway patrol, especially with the dull grey colored exterior.
And for $10k, it's not a bad price even if it is an ex rental.
I personally would like a Charger Daytona in orange color. :shades:
2016 Audi A7 3.0T S Line, 2021 Subaru WRX
An old timer who wears his cowboy hat everywhere :P
2016 Audi A7 3.0T S Line, 2021 Subaru WRX
2016 Audi A7 3.0T S Line, 2021 Subaru WRX
My ex had a Sunfire and I hated driving that pos. I agree about the red interior lighting and the horrible plastics in and out. At least they toned down the exteriors during the poast 5 or so years.
2016 Audi A7 3.0T S Line, 2021 Subaru WRX
Conversation heard at Pontaic's design centre:
"Ok we finished the dash for the new Bonneville"
"Umm, what about air vents in the middle?"
"Ooops, let's just tack on this extra pod with them"
"Short of redesigning the whole thing, that'll be our only choice"
2016 Audi A7 3.0T S Line, 2021 Subaru WRX
Oh, and they do have another Bonneville, but it's a high-mile 1999. I don't like the exterior style of the '92-99 as much, although the interior definitely seems more tasteful! Price actually doesn't seem too bad at $2600, and the car looks like it's in nice shape. But I don't want to take a chance on a 159,000 mile car that I'm not familiar with.
2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Limited Velvet Red over Wicker Beige
2024 Audi Q5 Premium Plus Daytona Gray over Beige
2017 BMW X1 Jet Black over Mocha
It is a 735i :surprise: :confuse: How do you confuse that with a BMW coupe I don't know. Still don't know the year yet and he can't get over to her house till Sunday. More to follow.
By the time the facts come out, it'll turn out to be an abandoned Z8, or M1
2016 Audi A7 3.0T S Line, 2021 Subaru WRX
Almost all of the encounters with GM cars over the last 25 years have been with rentals. (I never even see GM cars around here, except for Pick-ups). Most of the rentals were Pontiacs, yes with plastic-y interiors. My 90 y.o. Grandmother liked them tho. Can't even remember the models or years, they seemed like "appliances", generic.
What about a used Camry? Or are they way more expensive than a used American car?
Mom, says "Well you see it was kind of big so I thought it was a sedan and someone told me BMW made a 735i back then but there were not badges on this car..."
Acceleration wasn't awful, but I'm sure it would have been better with either the 3.5 or the Hemi.
Other than that, not a bad car. Comfortable and roomy.
I came across an Accord that I think might be a good car to buy and fix and sell. Its a 2005 Accord EXL coupe 5-speed manual. 51k for $9300. It needs a paint job on the trunk and rear bumper but otherwise it is spotless and clean. I think it's easily worth $11,000-$12,000 private party.
Yeah, I know I can, but for some twisted reason the Bonneville appeals to me! Maybe I'm just too much of a die-hard Poncho fan. I really need to go drive one and get it out of my system though, because even though there are better cars out there, if I don't at least experience it, I'll always wonder.
As for budget, well I figure the max I want to go is $6-7K down, $400 per month. But, cheaper is better!
Also, I'm guessing that whatever I get next is going to be with me for a long, long time. After all, the Intrepid made it 10 years and 150,000 miles, and was still running fine. If it hadn't gotten totaled, I'm sure it would've gone on for many more years, easily. Most of the Intrepid's miles were loaded on fairly early, too. I put on about 33000 in the first year, but slacked off after that. It took 4 more years to get it to 100,000 miles. It actually turned 100K on Christmas Eve, 2004. So then it took almost 5 more years to get it to 150K. And that included a trip down to Florida, plus for about a year and a half I was letting my roommate drive it, when he took a job out in Annapolis that was about 20 miles away. He had been using my '85 Silverado, but I didn't want him driving it that far. Even if it didn't wear the truck out, the fuel bill would've been a killer.
My guess is that whatever I buy will see 6-7000 miles per year at most, at my current rate. So if I buy brand-new, it could easily take 20 years or more to get back up to 150K!
I like this Bonnie better than others I've seen:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Pontiac-Bonneville-GXP-2005-BONNEVILLE-GXP-SPORT-- SEDAN-50000-MILES-ONE-OWNER_W0QQitemZ290379591053QQcmdZViewItemQQptZUS_Cars_Truc- ks?hash=item439bf8ed8d
It has the Northstar V8. Must *really* go. Nice complete set of gauges. Dash looks better than some Pontiacs from a few year earlier, I think. Mileage probably sucks.
What new cars are on your list andre?
Is 400/mo over 5 years? If you get a low interest rate, could be a 25k+ car with your downpayment. That could open up a lot of options.
The values used are great too.
Car shopping sure is fun, I think. I sweated over my last car purchase for almost a year, I think, but I like the process and loved the car at the end, so it was all good.
http://www.hyundaisonata.com/
I think it's a nice looking car. A bit over the top, but....that doesn't seem to have bothered you before andre.
20k to start, I think. One of the big pluses but also one of the big question marks of the 2011 Sonata is the direct injection engine. Gets 34 hwy mpg, but may have maintenance issues down the line...But you've got a 10 year engine warranty.
To me, the Bonne GXP’s North* V8 did not offer nearly the quickness [ feel ] of the ‘5.3L truck engine’ in the GP GXP.
The GP 5.3L offers low end ‘grunt’ = more TQ at low RPM.
The Bonne GXP is a mid-15 sec quarter mile car – when new.
Results posted for the GP GXP were generally mid-14 sec.
This is a difference most [ who care about such things ] would likely notice.
YMMV.
- Ray
http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/comparisons/04q3/2004_chrysler_300_vs._ford_- crown_victoria_pontiac_bonneville-comparison_tests/2004_pontiac_bonneville_gxp_p- age_3
http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/car/05q4/pontiac_grand_prix_gxp-road_test/dr- iving_impression_page_3
With the Grand Prix, I know a lot of people complain about the seat comfort, but I'd imagine that the GXP model addresses those issues?
I think either a Bonneville GXP or Grand Prix GXP would be a cool car to have, but I'm probably going to lean more toward something more cheap, economical, and honestly, a bit more throwaway. I have a feeling that if I bought one of those GXP's, then given the comparative rarity, I'd try too hard to hold onto it and preserve it, and I'd feel a tremendous loss if something happened to it. Whereas something like a used Aura or even a brand-new 4-cyl Altima wouldn't elicit quite the same emotion. I guess that makes sense?
It does make sense. If the 'Trep was the only car in your fleet, I can see getting something that's fast, unique and holds your interest. However, you've got plenty of "fun" cars - the Catalina and the DeSoto, specifically.
So, whatever you get to replace the 'Trep - be it new or used - doesn't need to make that same emotional connection with you. Hence, a used Aura or Altima.
In other words, an appliance.
Hope you're able to get out and try a few of them on. Am interested in what you end up getting. I'm pushing for the Aura, so that there will be at least one other regular poster who owns a Saturn!
I'm starting to think more and more about the Aura. Even though it'll still be a bit of an appliance, being an orphan still makes it a few steps off the beaten path. I know a G6 is now an orphan too, but they just don't do it for me.
Also, while I know I said I've sworn off Intrepids, I have to admit I've still been looking! I found this decent looking 2000 ES with 45000 miles on it for $4995. Nicely equipped with the 3.2, sunroof, leather, etc. But with miles that low, it almost makes me suspicious!
And this 2002 Intrepid ES sounds even better! Similar miles, but it has the more powerful 3.5. 250 hp versus 225 for the 3.2. Cloth seats though, and it looks like it has stains on the back seat.
But, I'm really trying to force myself to stay from Intrepids...if nothing else, just so I can experience something new.