Someone mentioned the RX-8.


Any particular years to gravitate to, or to avoid?

If you don't mind 4 doors, the MazdaSpeed3's are pretty fun cars to drive.

Turbo charged, 6 speed transmission, hatchback and just right under 25k for a brand new one.

I'm asking my local Subi dealer about a pair of WRXs they have. One a hatch, the other is 1200 less but no hatch.

Also looking real hard at the Scion FR-S

Just my two cents bro, as a former credit manager. Buy a car that is a year or two old. Let someone else take the depreciation hit on "brand new". Never pay interest on a depreciating asset. I mean, you're going too, but don't get double dipped on a brand new vehicle. Do that shit when you're retired. Getting off my soapbox now.

P.S - I walked that line. I have wanted a newer Mustang for a while now, finally bit the bullet and bought an 08 with low miles. Got it for a song. The guy who bought it got all the bells and whistles and his loss is my gain. Be wise.

350Z(used)
G35(used)
BRZ
FRS
Focus ST
2004 Cobra (used but the best investment of all of them)

You could ALMOST stick a newerish Mustang GT in there with the new 5.0 Coyote Motor and a 6 speed manual :D

But you'd probably need about 26-29 for a 2012/13ish model.

If you get a mustang, don't get a 2005-2010 models. Wait for the 2011+ with the 5.0 Coyote in them, trust me, you'll want to spend that little bit extra for 100 HP.

Pretty solid advice for most vehicles, however there are a few exceptions where due to ridiculous resale values you might as well buy the damn thing new.

At least in Colorado, you're better off buying basically any Subie (especially WRX so you know it isn't beat), Wranglers, Tacomas, and Honda Fits brand new. This can soften at the 5 year old or 50k mile mark, but if you're going 2 years or less you might as well pony up for a new one.

Cliff O'Geay
 

Go to Throurgh Bred Ford and ask for Cliff O'Geay. I've bought cars from this man at several dealerships over the last 20 years. It's not the dealership, it's the salesperson. He doesn't give you any bullshit. You tell him what you want, he tells you what he can sell it for. Pretty simple. I've bought new and used and always felt I paid a fair price.

Jim C

If you are into auto-X and road coarse, for 25K pick up a used STI or Evo.

Get the new Focus ST.

Used BMW 135i. Throw in a 100k warranty and win.

Used Vette? 50/50 weight distribution.

not sure of your other requirements etc in real life/everyday etc. I would LOVE to buy a used Vette. If and when I do, it'll be a garage queen to be taken out on weekends and nice dry days. I'll still keep my Golf for everyday use.

THAT would be fun right there.

I'm working on the same deal....

Currently looking for a lightning I can work on and turn into a garage KING. :D And find a beater to drive during the week to work.

Ford Focus ST. I've got one at my dealership with 10k miles for under $25k.

I want one of those...they look pretty fun. Wish ford would slap the SVT badge on it...