Car Corner
New Car List
August 1, 2006
By Scott Lewis
I thought it was time to revisit the list of new cars I am considering come early 2008.
A few
months ago I took a look at gas mileage in regards to new
cars, which opened the door to a lot of cars. I also
attended my
second Auto Show In Motion put on by General Motors and went
to the
New York
International Auto Show. All of these things have conspired
to influence the new cars I will think about when I go shopping.
This month I would like to list every car that is on my mind for a new car. You will see
a lot of cars below. One of the reasons for this list was that I needed to research how to create a
collapsible list of text within a web page. I did not want a collapsible menu, just text. To
expand the text below simply click on the name of the cars. You can click on them again to collapse
the text. Depending on how your browser is setup you may get a warning about Active Content. I believe
this is because the collapsing feature uses JavaScript. It is safe to allow this content. There is
nothing unusual going on here. I apologize for this minor inconvenience. It works differently for me
depending on what computer I am on, so I am sure it is a security setting.
Since I was having fun researching the vehicles I decided to price each one out on their respective
manufacturer's web site. The prices listed were the prices as configured on the day I did the
research for each car. I started this list a while ago so some of the dates are old. The prices are not a big
deal. I am trying to get a feel for the overall price range of vehicles and how
their consideration
will be impacted by my budget.
A couple of cars were not yet available while working on this list. BMW 330Ci & VW Eos. The Bimmer
is basically my dream car. If I had plenty of money I would just buy it. There may be cars out there
that perform better, or have more luxury, but I think this car really is my Ultimate Driving
Machine. I wanted to use the 330Ci as a price limit. Since the new 330Ci is not available
I used the 330i (sedan) as my price ceiling. I expect to have a budget right around $35K. The 330i
is out of range. I doubt I will be able to get it. But setting a price range in the
low $40K made this a fun exercise.
The VW Eos is a retractable hardtop convertible that will go toe-to-toe with the Pontiac G6 convertible
which is listed below. I also heard Chrysler is planning to make both a soft top and
retractable hard top of the Sebring convertible. Obviously this is becoming a cool thing.
I tried to think of every single car I would consider. No, I am not going to cross shop a Pontiac
Solstice against a BMW 330i.
I listed some comments with each car. I also gave a very short pros and cons list. These
are the pros and cons for me. Enjoy, and remember I did this more to get
a collapsible section of text working than to really look at the cars. Since I love cars
it gave me an excuse to look at a bunch of cars while working on this web project.
Pros: Relatively Cheap, Cute, Great Gas Mileage.
Cons: Slow.
Bottom Line: The power to weight ratio of this cute car is about
the same as my old 1989 Honda CRX Si. In that regard it is like taking
a step backward. At this price I could get a Chevy Cobalt SS with a 200 horsepower
supercharged engine. However, if gas prices continue to climb this will look
better and better.
Since I fully intend to keep my 93 Z28 I am wondering if I could give
up on performance with this car. Also, by getting a car this low in price
I may be opening the door to buying an old project car. Although I don't know
where I will be able to store that many cars. This could also make a good car
to pass onto my kids when they reach driving age. With the rear seats folder down
hopefully this car can hold all the camping gear I need when I go camping with
one of my sons.
|
| Base MSRP | $17,450 |
| Destination & Handling | $550 |
| Astro Black Body Color | $450 |
| Convenience Package | $400 |
| Universal Garage Door Opener | |
| Auto Dimming Rear View Mirror | |
| Rain Sensor and Auto Headlamps | |
| Sport Seats | $300 |
| Leather: Lapis Blue | $1,300 |
| Automatic AC | $300 |
| 3-Spoke w/Cruise and Multifunction | $250 |
| 8-Spkr. Harman Kardon Sound System | $550 |
| Center Arm Rest | $200 |
| Int. Surface "Seven" Piano Black | $200 |
| Total (as of 6/5/2006) | $21,950 |
Pros: Relatively Cheap, Cute, Great Gas Mileage.
Cons: Slow.
Bottom Line: I think of the Mini Cooper as the smallest luxury car on
the market. Let's just see how luxury we can get it. I decided to load
up a Mini to see just how far I can push the luxury envelope.
I left out the Premium Package because I don't want a
panoramic sunroof to heat up my car everyday. I also skipped on the Sport
Package because the most expensive thing in it was the Dynamic Stability Control
which I don't really care for.
|
| Base MSRP | $17,450 |
| Destination & Handling | $550 |
| Astro Black Body Color | $450 |
| Convenience Package | $400 |
| Universal Garage Door Opener | |
| Auto Dimming Rear View Mirror | |
| Rain Sensor and Auto Headlamps | |
| Dynamic Stability Control | |
| Front Fog Lamps | $150 |
| Xenon Headlamps w/Power Wash | $550 |
| Sport Seats | $300 |
| Chrome Line Interior | $200 |
| Automatic AC | $300 |
| On-Board Computer | $200 |
| 3-Spoke w/Cruise and Multifunction | $250 |
| 8-Spkr. Harman Kardon Sound System | $550 |
| Center Arm Rest | $200 |
| Leather: English Panther Black | $1700 |
| Int. Surface "Seven" Piano Black | $200 |
| Rear Spoiler (Painted) | $270 |
| Sport Exhaust | $675 |
| Cupholder Accessory | $50 |
| Sun Shade | $48 |
| Panther Leather Shift Knob | $45 |
| Panther Leather Hand Brake Cover | $84 |
| Black Carpet Floor Mats (4) | $95 |
| Auxiliary Audio Input | $40 |
| Hands Free Phone w/Bluetooth | $450 |
| Total (as of 6/5/2006) | $25,207 |
Pros: Cute & Topless, Gas Mileage.
Cons: Not So Cheap, Slow.
Bottom Line: Again, this might be too slow for me, but it is
reasonably priced for a loaded luxury convertible. Gas mileage is a huge
plus for this car. My kids will probably love it.
|
| Base MSRP | $21,950 |
| Destination & Handling | $550 |
| Astro Black Body Color | $450 |
| Black Top | STD |
| Body Color Mirrors | STD |
| Cold Weather Package | $300 |
| Heated Front Seats | |
| Heated Side Mirrors and Washer Jets | |
| Convenience Package | $400 |
| Universal Garage Door Opener | |
| Auto Dimming Rear View Mirror | |
| Rain Sensor and Auto Headlamps | |
| Premium Package | $1,400 |
| Chrome Line Interior | |
| Automatic AC | |
| On-Board Computer | |
| 3-Spoke w/Cruise and Multifunction | |
| 8-Spkr. Harman Kardon Sound System | |
| Center Arm Rest | |
| 5-Speed Getrag Manual | STD |
| 15" 5-Star Rockets | STD |
| Front Fog Lamps | $150 |
| Xenon Headlamps w/Power Wash | $550 |
| Sport Seats | $300 |
| Leather: Cordoba Beige | $1,300 |
| Cupholder Accessory | $50 |
| Sun Shade | $48 |
| Beige Carpet Floor Mats (4) | $95 |
| Auxiliary Audio Input | $40 |
| Hands Free Phone w/Bluetooth | $450 |
| Total (as of 6/5/2006) | $28,033 |
Pros: Price, Cute, Luxury, Gas Mileage.
Cons: Possibly too slow.
Bottom Line: I love this car. It is very high on my real list.
I am still a little concerned with the lack of low end torque with this
car. After all, I currently drive a 275 hp V-8. One more time I loaded up
on the luxury items. After all I expect to have at least $30K to spend.
|
| Base MSRP | $20,900 |
| Destination & Handling | $550 |
| Astro Black Body Color | $450 |
| Body Color Roof/Mirrors | STD |
| Convenience Package | $400 |
| Universal Garage Door Opener | |
| Auto Dimming Rear View Mirror | |
| Rain Sensor and Auto Headlamps | |
| Sport Suspension Plus | STD |
| 16" V-Spokes | STD |
| Front Fog Lamps | $150 |
| Xenon Headlamps w/Power Wash | $550 |
| Limited Slip Differential | $500 |
| 6-Speed Getrag Manual | STD |
| Sport Seats | STD |
| Leather: Lapis Blue | $1,300 |
| Chrome Line Interior | $200 |
| Automatic AC | $300 |
| On-Board Computer | $200 |
| 3-Spoke w/Cruise and Multifunction | $250 |
| 8-Spkr. Harman Kardon Sound System | $550 |
| Center Arm Rest | $200 |
| Int. Surface "Seven" Piano Black | $200 |
| Total (as of 5/18/2006) | $26,700 |
Pros: Cute, Cool, Topless, Gas Mileage.
Cons: Price.
Bottom Line: Well, we can no longer tout the price of the Mini
Cooper when this version is over 30 grand. Ouch! In fact, the price is the
only thing stopping me. There are quite a few cars on the market
that are real nice in the $30K range, such as the Mustang GT,
Charger R/T, Acura TL, Honda S2000, Audi A3 and even a nice used G35 Coupe.
|
| Base MSRP | $25,400 |
| Destination & Handling | $550 |
| Astro Black Body Color | $450 |
| Black Top | STD |
| Body Color Mirrors | STD |
| Cold Weather Package | $300 |
| Heated Front Seats | |
| Heated Side Mirrors and Washer Jets | |
| Convenience Package | $400 |
| Universal Garage Door Opener | |
| Auto Dimming Rear View Mirror | |
| Rain Sensor and Auto Headlamps | |
| Premium Package | $1,400 |
| Chrome Line Interior | |
| Automatic AC | |
| On-Board Computer | |
| 3-Spoke w/Cruise and Multifunction | |
| 8-Spkr. Harman Kardon Sound System | |
| Center Arm Rest | |
| Sport Suspension | STD |
| Limited Slip Differential | $500 |
| 16" 7-Fins (Performance) | STD |
| 6-Speed Getrag Manual | STD |
| Sport Seats | STD |
| Leather: Cordoba Beige | $1,300 |
| Int. Surface Alloy Patina | STD |
| Park Distance Control | STD |
| Total (as of 5/18/2006) | $30,300 |
Pros: Gas Mileage, Reliability.
Cons: Price, Boring Design, Performance.
Bottom Line: I like the Accord Coupe, but it is a bit bland.
I have driven the Accord sedan with cloth interior as well as the upscale
Acura CL Coupe with leather. The CL is no longer available, but I liked
it a lot. I need to test drive a 4 cylinder, manual transmission equipped
coupe with leather. If its performance is good enough I might enjoy getting
34 mpg on the highway with enough luxury for the coming decade. At over
twenty six thousand this is getting expensive for an economical commuter.
Does it have more luxury than a well optioned Mini Cooper?
|
| Base MSRP | $24,250 |
| Destination & Handling | $550 |
| Fog Lights | $330 |
| Full Nose Mask | $155 |
| Rear-Wing Spoiler | $499 |
| Front Under Spoiler | $355 |
| Premium Floor Mats | $79 |
| Leather Steering Wheel Cover | $59 |
| Leather Shift Knob | $58 |
| Total (as of 10/10/2005) | $26,335 |
Pros: Performance, Reliability.
Cons: Price, Boring Design.
Bottom Line: This is as close to the discontinued Acura
CL 3.2 Type-S as we can get anymore. I test drove the Acura and liked
it a lot. At that time I expected to consider the CL for
my next car. I need to test drive the Honda version and see if the
luxury is high enough. Pushing 30 grand puts this in tough company
though. Plus it just doesn't look exciting.
|
| Base MSRP | $27,400 |
| Destination & Handling | $550 |
| Fog Lights | $330 |
| Full Nose Mask | $155 |
| Rear-Wing Spoiler | $499 |
| Front Under Spoiler | $355 |
| Premium Floor Mats | $79 |
| Leather Shift Knob | $58 |
| Total (as of 10/10/2005) | $29,426 |
Pros: Cute, Cute, Cute.
Cons: Slow, Slow, Slow.
Bottom Line: I like the looks of the New Beetle. They are cute.
My biggest concern is performance. This car will not be a performance car...
ever, especially now that they dropped the Turbo engine which had
power potential with aftermarket parts. Do I want cute? The Mini Cooper
provides cute, but with more performance.
|
| Base MSRP | $21,920 |
| Destination Fe | $615 |
| Package #2 (Required for Leather Seating) | $3,030 |
| Semi-Auto Power Operated Cloth Convertible Top |
| Premium Sound System |
| Cold Weather Package |
| Heatable Front Seats |
| Heated Front Windshield Washer Nozzles |
| Clear Lens Halogen Front Fog Lights |
| Automatic Wiper Speed Control Rain Sensor |
| Self-Dimming Rearview Mirror w/Switch |
| HomeLink |
| 3-Spoke Padded Leather Wrapped Steering Wheel |
| Leather Shift Knob |
| Ski Sack |
| Total (as of 10/10/2005) | $25,565 |
Pros: Cute, Cheap, Great Gas Mileage
Cons: Performance.
Bottom Line: Now we're talking great gas mileage. This is
the mileage champ at 46 mpg highway. I have a friend that owns a
Jetta Wagon with the diesel. He gets mileage in the 40s regularly.
He also says it performs fine. I would have to drive one myself before I would
believe it. As gas prices continue to go up this car will continue to rise
up on my new car list. Why don't they offer the
convertible with the diesel engine?
|
| Base MSRP | $18,390 |
| Destination Fe | $615 |
| Package #2 (Required for Leather Seating) | $3,145 |
| Power Glass Sunroof w/Tilt/Slide/PreSelect |
| Premium Sound System |
| Cold Weather Package |
| Heatable Front Seats |
| Heated Front Windshield Washer Nozzles |
| Clear Lens Halogen Front Fog Lights |
| Automatic Wiper Speed Control Rain Sensor |
| Self-Dimming Rearview Mirror w/Switch |
| HomeLink |
| 3-Spoke Padded Leather Wrapped Steering Wheel |
| Leather Shift Knob |
| Total (as of 10/10/2005) | $22,150 |
Pros: Style, Style, Style.
Cons: Manual Top, Lack of Luggage Space, Rough Around The Edges.
Bottom Line: I really like the styling of this car. But having driven
one briefly I am not thrilled. If I can swing a two seater I will still
consider this car. However, the Miata is supposed to be more refined and
may be the better choice. I don't like the new Miata's styling though.
The manual top on this car gives me nightmares. The lack of storage will
probably be an issue. This is a car to be seen in. You buy it for style...
which can't be beat for the money. More important is the upcoming GXP
version of the Solstice which will be packing 260 horsepower for a
0-60 run in 5.5 seconds.
|
| Base MSRP | $19,995 |
| Convenience Package | $465 |
| Cruise control |
| Driver Information Center |
| Fog lamps |
| Steering Wheel Controls |
| Power PackageE | $625 |
| Power Windows |
| Power Door Locks |
| Remote Keyless Entry |
| Power Outside Mirrors |
| Premium Package | $690 |
| Leather-wrapped 3-Spoke Steering wheel |
| Steering wheel accessory controls |
| Leather-wrapped Shift Knob |
| Steel/Sand leather seating surfaces |
| Brakes, 4-wheel antilock | $400 |
| Limited Slip Rear Differential | $195 |
| Air conditioning, front, manual | $960 |
| Floormats, carpeted, front | $60 |
| ETR AM/FM stereo with 6-disc CD player/MP3 playback | $495 |
| Wheels, 18" (45.7 cm), aluminum, chromed | $795 |
| Total (as of 10/10/2005) | $25,075 |
Pros: Light, Nimble, Quick Enough.
Cons: Boring next to Solstice.
Bottom Line: I have read the reviews, but I can't help really
liking the Solstice. I would not buy a Solstice without test driving both
cars. By the time I am ready to buy Pontiac will have the Solstice GXP with
a 260 horsepower engine. Also the Saturn Sky Redline will be out. Plus Mazda
plans a Mazdaspeed version of the Miata... uh, I mean MX-5.
This could all change drastically in the next year and a half.
I understand the Solstice is
the better highway cruiser. Since I drive a lot of highway miles everyday
I really need a lengthy test drive in each car. If I decide to do the sports
car thing this will be a tough choice.
|
| Base MSRP | $24,435 |
| Destination Fee | $560 |
| Suspension Package | $500 |
| In-Dash 6-Disc CD Changer | $500 |
| Total (as of 11/02/2005) | $25,995 |
Pros: Style, Style, Style.
Cons: A Little Cheap Feeling. Solid Rear Axle.
Bottom Line: My brother-in-law bought a 2005 Mustang Convertible.
Having driven the V-6 with a manual transmission I can say without
hesitation that this car is quick enough to keep me entertained for the
next decade. I love the styling, so it will come down to Chevrolet's
ability to sway me with a new Camaro or Dodge's with a new Challenger.
|
| Base MSRP | $20,090 |
| Destination | $695 |
| V6 Pony Package | $1,195 |
| Unique Pony Grille with Chrome Bezel and Fog Lamps |
| Lower Door Tape Stripe, Available in Black, White or Pearl Gold |
| Anti-Lock Brakes w/Traction Control |
| 17" Premium Painted Cast Aluminum Wheels |
| Pony Front Fender Badges |
| Rear Spoiler |
| Pony Lower Door Tape Stripe in All 2006MY Colors |
| Carpeted Front Floor Mats with Unique Brushed Chrome |
| "MUSTANG" Badge in 2006MY Interior Colors |
| Interior Upgrade Package | $450 |
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel with Satin Aluminum Spokes |
| Bright Polished Register Rings and Bright Shift Knob |
| Satin Aluminum-Plated Door Handles |
| Satin Aluminum Door Sill Scuff Plate with Bright MUSTANG Lettering Insert |
| Dark Charcoal Aberdeen Pattern Front Door Panel Inserts |
| Satin Aluminum Finish Instrument Panel Appliqué - Ribbed Pattern |
| Special New Bright Polished Six-Gauge Cluster with MyColor Feature and Message Center |
| Verona Grain Leather-Trimmed Bucket Seats | $695 |
| Active Anti-Theft System (Incl. Perimeter Inclination & Intrusion Alarms) | $295 |
| Total (as of 10/13/2005) | $23,420 |
Pros: Style, Style, Style.
Cons: No Pony Package, Solid Rear Axle.
Bottom Line: My brother-in-law bought a 2005 Mustang Convertible and
I like it enough I could easily live with one.
The vinyl top looks a bit cheap, but then the price is very
reasonable. If I ultimately decide to look at convertibles, this
car will be high on the list... even with the V-6.
|
| Base MSRP | $24,915 |
| Destination | $695 |
| Interior Upgrade Package | $450 |
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel with Satin Aluminum Spokes |
| Bright Polished Register Rings and Bright Shift Knob |
| Satin Aluminum-Plated Door Handles |
| Satin Aluminum Door Sill Scuff Plate with Bright MUSTANG Lettering Insert |
| Dark Charcoal Aberdeen Pattern Front Door Panel Inserts |
| Satin Aluminum Finish Instrument Panel Appliqué - Ribbed Pattern |
| Special New Bright Polished Six-Gauge Cluster with MyColor Feature and Message Center |
| Verona Grain Leather-Trimmed Bucket Seats | $695 |
| Active Anti-Theft System (Incl. Perimeter Inclination & Intrusion Alarms) | $295 |
| Convertible Soft Boot | $160 |
| Total (as of 10/13/2005) | $27,210 |
Pros: Rear Seat Room, Retractible Hardtop.
Cons: Quality & Reliability.
Bottom Line: I saw this car up on a rotating stand at the New York
Auto Show. It was a really cool blue color. Hopefully that is the same
Electric Blue Metallic I selected from Pontiac's web site. I think this car is
an automatic only. I guess they figure people don't want to shift
for themelves while driving with the top down. That's a shame. However, when I went
through the gallery they had a picture of the shifter with a caption "6-Speed Manual
Transmission (Available on GTP)." It is the picture from the Coupe section as well.
Oh well! I drove the GTP Coupe
at the Auto Show In Motion... with an automatic... and it was very nice. The
rear seat room in the coupe was the largest I have seen in a two door in a long
time. I checked the specification and the rear seat in the convertible loses 7" in
shoulder room, loses 4" in hip room and loses 1.5" in leg room. Leg room should
not be a problem, but adults might have to get cozy back there rubbing shoulders.
I will also have to compare this car with the new VW Eos... which was not available
for pricing on their web site when I did this.
|
| Base MSRP | $29,990 |
| Electric Blue Metallic | STD |
| Premium value package | $1,615 |
| Leather appointed seating |
| Heated front seats |
| Leather wrapped steering wheel |
| Steering wheel radio control |
| Leather wrapped shift knob and park brake handle |
| AM/FM stereo 6 disc CD player |
| 18" 5 spoke alloy ultra-bright wheels |
| Total (as of 5/18/2006) | $31,605 |
Pros: Style, Performace, Future Collectibility.
Cons: Gas Mileage, Solid Rear Axle.
Bottom Line: Gas Mileage starts to come up when going from one
V-8 Pony car (93 Camaro Z28) to another. But performance will not
be an issue. I just have to decide if I really want another Modern Muscle Car.
A bigger concern really comes from GM and Chrylser having both introduced
concept Pony cars (Camaro and Challenger, respectively). We'll see.
|
| Base MSRP | $26,320 |
| Destination | $695 |
| Interior Upgrade Package | $450 |
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel with Satin Aluminum Spokes |
| Bright Polished Register Rings and Bright Shift Knob |
| Satin Aluminum-Plated Door Handles |
| Satin Aluminum Door Sill Scuff Plate with Bright MUSTANG Lettering Insert |
| Dark Charcoal Aberdeen Pattern Front Door Panel Inserts |
| Satin Aluminum Finish Instrument Panel Appliqué - Ribbed Pattern |
| Special New Bright Polished Six-Gauge Cluster with MyColor Feature and Message Center |
| 18" Polished Aluminum Wheels | $825 |
| Active Anti-Theft System (Incl. Perimeter Inclination & Intrusion Alarms) | $295 |
| Total (as of 10/13/2005) | $28,585 |
Pros: Hemi, Hemi, Hemi
Cons: Automatic, Gas Mileage, Cheap Interior.
Bottom Line: The second car that only comes in an automatic. Yuck!
Also, there is the issue of style. This car doesn't look that good.
That Hemi should take care of that. I have driven a Charger SRT8 with the
425 hp version of the Hemi. It was a big, powerful car. However, even this
car with 340 horsepower should be faster than my Camaro. I need a good test
drive of this to be sure it is fast enough to justify paying at the pump
for another V-8. I think of this car as a grown-up's car. Do I want to grow up?
|
| Base MSRP | $29,320 |
| Destination | $675 |
| AM/FM Radio with Cassette, CD, 6-Disc Changer & MP3 | $400 |
| UConnect Hands-Free Communication | $360 |
| Road/Track Performance Group | $1,600 |
| Charger GT Sport Package 06 | $1,259 |
| Total (as of 10/13/2005) | $33,614 |
Pros: Hemi, Hemi, Hemi
Cons: Automatic, Gas Mileage, Price
Bottom Line: Like the Dodge, this also comes in an automatic.
I believe I sat in one of these at the New York Auto Show. (archive/cars200605.html)
If you look at that article you will see a picture of one. It has the
same emblems on it that I saw on Chrysler's web site when I priced this car.
The regular 300C is not available in red. This is my big luxury
cruiser. Clearly I will have "grown up" if I buy this car. I don't even think
I would want a manual transmission in this car. The gas mileage is the
one thing that really bothers me. I am concerned with the interior color
on this car. The web site left me with gray. The show car had a light cream
color that I really liked. I want the cream color.
|
| Base MSRP | $33,725 |
| Destination | $675 |
| Inferno Red Crystal Pearl Coat | $225 |
| 300C Heritage Edition R Pkg. | $1,995 |
| Leather-Trimmed Performance Bucket Seats |
| AM/FM Stereo w/Cassette, 6-Disc CD and MP3 Players |
| 7 Boston Acoustics Speakers/Subwoofer |
| Chrome Bodyside Molding with Badge |
| Headlamp Washer |
| High-Intensity Discharge Headlamps |
| Leather-Wrapped Shift Knob |
| Performance Exhaust/Steering/Shift Program |
| Performance Steering |
| Power Adjustable Pedals with Memory |
| Translucent Steering Wheel and Door Pulls |
| Trunklid Spoiler |
| 368-Watt Digital Amplifier |
| Heritage Edition Group |
| SmartBeam(TM) Headlamps |
| UConnect Hands-Free Communication | $275 |
| Total (as of 6/5/2005) | $36,895 |
Pros: Luxury and Performance.
Cons: Stiff Ride, Front Wheel Drive.
Bottom Line: My brother-in-law use to have a TL Type-S when it
had 260 horsepower. He said it let every bump though and was a bit annoying
over time. I expect that could still be an issue here. A test drive could
settle that issue. My biggest problem is that this car goes head to head
with rear wheel drive cars... which I want. At this price I should be able to
find a rear wheel drive car instead.
|
| Base MSRP | $33,525 |
| Destination | $615 |
| Total (as of 10/13/2005) | $34,140 |
Pros: Performance.
Cons: Styling.
Bottom Line: Here is the car that buries the Acura TL. For slightly
over a grand more as configured (virtually a tie) this car is the rear
wheel drive car the TL needs to be. I just think this car is a little
boring in the style department, but that may not be an issue with the new
model coming. Overall, I get the vibe this car lacks the feeling of being special,
which I see as a problem at $35K.
|
| Base MSRP | $31,050 |
| Destination | $650 |
| Premium Package A | $3150 |
| Bose premium audio AM/FM in-dash 6-disc CD with MP3 |
| Bluetooth Hands-Free Phone System |
| Power sliding tinted glass sunroof |
| Manual reclining rear seatbacks |
| 2-position memory system for driver's seat and steering wheel |
| Dual-zone Automatic Temperature Control |
| Automatic on/off headlights |
| HomeLink Universal Transceiver |
| Automatic anti-glare rearview mirror |
| One-touch open/close rear windows |
| Power tilt and telescoping steering wheel |
| Aero Package | $550 |
| Rear spoiler |
| Rear side air diffusers |
| Total (as of 10/13/2005) | $35,400 |
Pros: Luxury, Performance.
Cons: Price.
Bottom Line: I love these. They are just so expensive. This car gets
mighty close in price to the BMW 3 series in coupe format. We'll have to
wait and see what the all new 330Ci will be priced at to be sure. This
is a car better suited to the used car market to save a bunch on depreciation.
|
| Base MSRP | $34,300 |
| Destination | $650 |
| Premium Package A | $2850 |
| Bose premium audio AM/FM?Cassette in-dash 6-disc CD |
| Bluetooth Hands-Free Phone System |
| Power sliding tinted glass sunroof |
| Manual reclining rear seatbacks |
| 2-position memory system for driver's seat and steering wheel |
| Dual-zone Automatic Temperature Control |
| Automatic on/off headlights |
| HomeLink Universal Transceiver |
| Automatic anti-glare rearview mirror |
| One-touch open/close rear windows |
| Power tilt and telescoping steering wheel |
| Aero Package | $550 |
| Rear spoiler |
| Rear side air diffusers |
| Total (as of 10/13/2005) | $37,700 |
Pros: Performance.
Cons: Rev Happy Engine, Too Hard Core
Bottom Line: I don't kow if I am ready for a super high revving
engine. I suspect it will get tiring on my long drives to and from work
everyday. But this is a great, if a bit pricey, sports car if I can give up
a back seat. I need to test drive one.
|
| Base MSRP | $33,150 |
| Destination & Handling | $550 |
| Total (as of 10/18/2005) | $33,700 |
Pros: Luxury, Refinement.
Cons: Not Enough Performance, Front Wheel Drive.
Bottom Line: I really like the A4. I loaded up the options on this A4,
but made sure it was below the BMWs. I expect the aftermarket will be all
over this new turbo motor that any lack of performance can be taken care of
the day the warrantee runs out. I would really prefer rear wheel drive in this
price range.
|
| Base MSRP | $27,640 |
| Destination Charge | $720 |
| Sunroof package (includes leather interior) | $1,400 |
| Premium package | $1,850 |
| Homelink |
| Auto-dimming and folding exterior mirrors |
| Auto-dimming interior mirror w/ compass |
| Rain sensor with "coming home" feature |
| Power passenger seat |
| Heated front seats |
| 17-inch alloy wheels with 235/45 R17 all-season tires |
| S line sport package | $3,000 |
| Sport suspension |
| Front grill and rear side moldings with S line badge |
| Aluminum interior door sills with S line logo |
| S line front and rear bumbers |
| Brushed aluminum trim |
| S line steering wheel |
| 18-inch GmbH wheels with 235/40 R18 high performance tires |
| 20mm lower ride height |
| Bose premium sound system with AudioPilot noise compensation | $1,000 |
| Total (as of 10/18/2005) | $36,360 |
Pros: Luxury, Refinement.
Cons: Not Enough Performance, Front Wheel Drive.
Bottom Line: I listed the A3 after the A4 because I think of it as
an alternative to the A4... for camping. This would be a great camping vehicle.
I should be able to load it up with gear for a week long campout with my two boys
while in Boy Scouts. It's a bit pricey for an entry level car... even an Audi.
However, Neuspeed has a computer chip reprogramming kit for this car that
boosts its horsepower from 197 to 252, and torque from 207 to 297. If
I read their web site right, this is done for a mere $499. Cool!
So why isn't this engine available in a Beetle. That would be Way Cool!
If this seems a bit expensive I could save a few thouand dollars and
eliminate a couple of door and get a VW GTI (it prices out at $25,780 with the
package that gets you a leather interior).
|
| Base MSRP | $24,740 |
| Destination Charge | $720 |
| Ocean Blue pearl effect | $450 |
| Premium package | $2,0250 |
| 17" 16 Spoke silver wheels & 225/45 R17 all-season tires |
| Leather seating surfaces |
| Multifunction leather 3-spoke steering wheel |
| Aluminum belt line trim |
| Front fog lights |
| Power front driver seat |
| Homelink |
| Storage package |
| Trip computer |
| Auto-dimming interior mirror |
| Rain/Light sensor |
| Sport Package | $1,800 |
| 17" 16 Spoke bi-color wheels & 225/45 R17 performance tires |
| Leather seating surfaces |
| Multifunction leather 3-spoke steering wheel |
| Aluminum belt line trim |
| Front fog lights |
| Sport seats |
| Radio button in alloy |
| Roof spoiler |
| Bose premium sound system w/ AudioPilot noise compensation & in-dash 6 CD changer | $900 |
| Blueetooth interface phone preperation, Voice Control | $435 |
| Total (as of 10/18/2005) | $29,270 |
Pros: Luxury, Refinement, Reliability.
Cons: Not Enough Performance.
Bottom Line: The only way to get a manual transmission in the new
Lexus is to get the slower IS 250. I would defintely
need to test drive this combination to determine if it's a performance
level I can live with for a decade. I suspect not.
|
| Base MSRP | $29,990 |
| Delivery, Processing & Handling Fee | $590 |
| 18-in Alloy Wheels with Summer Tires | $720 |
| Total (as of 10/18/2005) | $31,300 |
Pros: Performance, Luxury, Reliability.
Cons: Automatic, Not a BMW.
Bottom Line: I had high hopes for this car being able to take a serious
shot at BMW and its wonderful 3 Series. But they don't even offer a manual
tranmission with the best engine. Oops! It does have a lot of performace, and
I read that its "manual" shift mode is one of the best there is. Maybe I
need to test drive it before I right it off. This is the last of the automatics
on the list.
|
| Base MSRP | $35,440 |
| Delivery, Processing & Handling Fee | $590 |
| 18-in Alloy Wheels with Summer Tires | $720 |
| Total (as of 10/18/2005) | $36,750 |
Pros: Luxury, Refinement.
Cons: Price, Not Enough Performance.
Bottom Line: The 325i is here because it is a good 4K less than a
similarly equipped 330i. I would need to test drive both back to back to
see if I need the extra power of the 330i. I also don't know if I can
stretch my budget this far yet, but I suspect that I might be able to get
a better "deal" on the low end 325 model. Drop the Sport package and the
hokie rear sunshade and I might be able to afford this car.
|
| Base MSRP | $30,900 |
| Destination | $695 |
| Mystic Blue Metallic | $475 |
| Sport Package | $1,600 |
| Double Spoke alloy wheels, 17x8.0 front, 17x8.5 rear |
| 225/45R-17 front, 255/40R-17 rear run-flat performance tires |
| 8-way power front sport seats (memory for
ext. mirrors and seat) |
| 3-spoke sport steering wheel with audio & phone controls |
| Sport suspension calibration |
| Premium Package | $2,900 |
| 8-way power front sport seats (memory for
ext. mirrors and seat) |
| 4-way adjustable power lumbar support for front seats |
| Leather upholstery |
| Interior and power-adjustable folding exterior auto-dimming mirrors |
| Integrated 3-button Universal garage door opener |
| BMW Assist |
| Bluetooth® Wireless Technology |
| Comfort Access | $500 |
| Power Rear Sunshade/Rear Manual Side Window Shades | $575 |
| Premium Sound System | $1,200 |
| Total (as of 10/18/2005) | $38,845 |
Pros: My Dream Sedan.
Cons: Price.
Bottom Line: I want this car. It is the target. I am a car enthusiast
and it pains me to see how many people drive these cars and don't have the
slightest clue how great a "performance" sedan they are. Unfortunately, those
very people that keep buying them without knowing how great the car is are
the same people that allow BMW to raise the price to the point where I don't
think I will be able to afford one when the time comes for me to buy.
A true shame that a great sports sedan is seen by most as just a status symbol.
|
| Base MSRP | $36,600 |
| Destination | $695 |
| Sport Package | $1,600 |
| Star Spoke alloy wheels, 18x8.0 front, 18x8.5 rear |
| 225/40R-18 front, 255/35R-18 rear run-flat performance tires |
| 8-way power front sport seats |
| 3-spoke sport steering wheel with audio & phone controls |
| Sport suspension calibration |
| Premium Package | $2,900 |
| 4-way adjustable power lumbar support for front seats |
| Leather upholstery |
| Interior and power-adjustable folding exterior auto-dimming mirrors |
| Integrated 3-button Universal garage door opener |
| BMW Assist |
| Bluetooth® Wireless Technology |
| Comfort Access | $500 |
| Power Rear Sunshade/Rear Manual Side Window Shades | $575 |
| Total (as of 10/18/2005) | $42,170 |
Recap
What a list. I would like to comment on a few items of interest:
Mini Cooper - Yea, I know, I have the Mini Cooper listed with 5 configurations. I think of the Mini
Cooper as the smallest (and most economical) luxury car on the market. I priced a basic Mini Cooper with
just enough options for me to enjoy everyday. At $21,950 it is truely affordable, and if I can convince my
wife to let me get a project car at the same time I will be totally cool with this car for a daily driver.
The other versions were based on the fact that I will easily be able to fit a pretty loaded Mini Cooper
into my budget. However, I did cheap out on the options for the Cooper S Convertible since it
went over 30 grand with just the basic packages. Ouch, we are no longer talking about an affordable
little car.
Ford Mustang - Notice that when I priced the Mustang Convertible I did not include the
V6 Pony Package. That's because getting the V6 Pony Package in the convertible forces you
to get an automatic transmission with traction control. This drove the price up more
than $2,000... and I want a manual transmission. Again, I really like the Mustang so I priced it in
a number of configurations.
Another issue with the Mustang is the possibility of Chevrolet making a Camaro and Dodge making a
Challenger. Dodge just announced at the Pepsi Cola 400 at Daytona that they will build the Challenger
and it will be available as a 2008 model. I can hardly wait to see it in all its variations.
Dodge Charger - I previously read that the Road/Track option on the Charger R/T got you a free
flowing exhaust worth 10 hp and some other extras like a slightly firmer suspension and chrome wheels.
When I optioned the Charger on their web site I never saw a Road/Track option. However, there was
an option called "Perf. Seats w/Preferred Suede & Accent Stitching" and if I added that it showed up
on the summary page as the Road/Track option. Also, there was a GT Sport Performance package that
seemed to have all the things I thought would be in the Road/Track package. Whatever. If those seats
are the same ones in the SRT8 (which I have driven) then I am all over that.
Audi A4 - The Audi offered a Technology Package that included Bi-Xenon headlights, Adaptive
front lighting system, Memory for drivers seat and exterior mirror position, color trip computer &
Bluetooth interface phone preparation. All I care about is the Bluetooth interface, but I
couldn't see paying $1,775 to get it. Oh well. Are you wondering why I included the "lower"
end Audi with the turbo 4 cylinder and not the V-6 version of the A4 that compares with the 330i? The
V-6 only comes with Quattro all wheel drive (which is not a problem), but also only comes with
an automatic. Oops!
BMW 330i - If money were less of a concern I would seriously consider BMW's Active Cruise Control.
$2,200 was just a bit too much for me to include it. However, I did try to include a Phone
Docking Cradle for a mere $130, but the site would not let me. I think it is because it
wanted the Bluetooth and BMW Assist options. Well, both of those are in the Premium Package
which I did list as an option. I'm sure this could be dealt with easily by the dealer. I also
didn't see a Premium Sound System on the 330i (it was available on the 325i). I am assuming
that the 330i gets a better stereo than the 325i as standard equipment. Again, check with
your dealer.
You will notice that I was not completely consistent in all the options on the cars.
Initially I tried to stay consistent, but it became tedious to do so. The major options are
consistent, like sunroofs... I generally don't care for
sunroofs and avoided them unless another option I really want can only be had with a
sunroof as part of a package.
Conclusion
It is too early to decide exactly what I want. I need to nail down my budget, which won't
happen for a while. I am really leaning toward a Mini Cooper S or a Mini Cooper Convertible.
They fit any budget I might have. They are cute and fun to drive, and I really like them.
Then again the Mustang and its future competition are very tempting. I also love the idea of
a Hemi. Plus Dodge just announced it will build the Challenger. I'm getting goose
bumps just
thinking about it.
We are about a year and a half away. We'll see.
