Personally I really like the way the Audi looks but I hear they are shit

I think S is sportier... an S3 review (even though it's 4 doors) actually led me to the BMW 2 series. I think the S3 adds ~40hp (290?) compared to the A5, and the S5 adds another 40.

I've heard similar reliability issues with Audi and BMW. Personally not a fan of the Audi frontend, but the only reason I didn't test drive one was that it was second on my list.

I might have commented early on that I think they look really great. However, I think the base model is bit of an iffy value (less so if you need the AWD for winter) and Audi tends not to be regarded the best for reliability. Interior is also really nice. Performance is more in line with a prior model 328 coupe (added weight of AWD hurts and not really needed in FL) but when I last looked they were more comparable in price to a similar year 335 (may not be true for FL). The S5 offers more performance but at a little more cost.

Looks like the A5/S5 got a facelift for 2013 that cleaned up the look a little. A 7-speed dual clutch was available for the S5 starting that year.

Yeah, I'll be driving a rear wheel drive car for sure. No need to worry about weather making the roads slick down here.
I have 2 guys looking for a regular seat in the 335i. Should I test drive a A5 or is the reliability history too much for Audi's?

A5/S5 is standard with AWD. You may try test driving an S5 for the hell of it. If you like it then do a little research on reliability and see if its that big of a deal. Could be more from past reputation.

Maybe something like this:
http://www.cars.com/vehicledetail/de...2932/overview/

I like Audi's but to me there is a difference in the feel of the car when driving. The Audi seemed less tight is the best way I can explain it. Although my opinion is from 2009 when I went with BMW after driving both. Take it with a grain of salt. If I decided to trade in the BMW I would at least test drive a current model year Audi as well as other brands but I do have a soft spot for BMW.

The BMW 335i was definitely tight driving. You move that steering wheel, the car turned that way. Very responsive.

That looks damn good. Do Audi's regularly go to 200K miles on a vehicle?

You're in south Florida right? I have an 07 335i you can drive. You can check out my 09 Cts-V too.

Not really sure. Think most of the German stuff might get expensive to keep running at some point and 200k seems like a ton of miles for a complicated luxury car.

Saint Petersburg.

Thats the buzz on the street as they say. Thats why I'm not too spooked to get a used BMW with 30K miles on it, figure I still have 170K to go.

Just randomly saw something from Consumer Reports somewhere else tonight that had Audi ranked well enough for reliability so reputation may not be everything. If you find something new enough their standard warranty is 48 months/50k and may have something similar to BMW that lets you extend it direct from manufacture.

http://static4.consumerreportscdn.or...ards_04-15.png

I'd suggest driving an S5 and see if the interior is BRC friendly and whether you like it. IMO the A5 seems underwhelming on paper (its not that quick and options really add up even for German cars) and the 2012-2014 used S5 looks to be in your range. Haven't driven the S5 but have heard they are a little more towards the comfort side vs. a 3 series coupe but still have that balance of luxury/performance ride that German cars are known for.

Good find. Thanks for the info.

Unless I get iced in here in Texas, I should be back home late tomorrow. I'm going out Friday and driving the Audi A5 here:
http://www.crownaudi.com/used-Tampa+...LFAFR1EA028329

Also the Lexus 350 RC
http://www.lexusofclearwater.com/Veh...FL/2470319073\

While there I'll scope out some other models.

I'd still nudge you towards a S5 vs. an A5 if you go that route but also keep an open mind when driving the A5. Since you haven't locked into what you want just continue to test drive a bunch of stuff. Not only does is help you know you made a good purchase when you do its a good way to drive all of the other offerings for the hell of it.

The A5 is out. Just not a good fit. Didn't even drive it.

Tried the Porsche and the Corvette. No fit.

The Lexus is off the charts. Took me and my son out. He is a big BMW fan and he was impressed. Said the interior was better than the BMW. It drove like a good sports car. The handling was tight. It rode smooth and low to the road. The cornering was the best I've rode in since I started my search. Definitely still on the short list.

I tried to drive a M3 and a M5 but the dealer didn't have a 335i, M3 or M5 on the lot. None. This was a big dealership. Porshe/VM/BMW. Not a single one on the lot. Not because they are selling that well, but they just don't keep them physically on the lot. The Audi dealer didn't have a S5 on the lot. Is this some trend?

I know BMW dealerships have M allocations and there are M certified dealers. My dealership just happened to be close to their next allocation when I came in, so I was able to get a production date right away, while other people online say they've waited months for their dealer to get one. I assume they're fairly rare, too... the M5 is a $93,000 car.

I built out a few Lexus 350s, but always ended up closer to mid-50s, and when it all started, I was thinking ~$40,000, so I had to draw the line somewhere.

Thanks for the info on the M scaricity.

What about the 640i? You check into it much? 2012 model
http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-s...89363121&Log=0

...at this point, I don't care if I ever see another BMW.

Those 6 Series are sexy beast.

Id like another E30 M3.

I did not, as I was mostly looking new and those start around $75k. That's a nice deal though... definitely would have considered it for that price and only 26,000 miles.

The M3 has even higher bolsters/tighter seats than the 335 sport seats so probably not worth your time.

This is a 45 minute drive from me. If this fits, this may be the one. Taking the wife and driving down there this afternoon.

How was the 640? Really like the looks after they fixed the back end with the re-style. It's a bigger car but still drives really well. Much better interior than the 3 series and uses higher quality materials like the leather.

Definitely one of the better BMW back ends.

Disappointed in the 640i. Way less room on the interior than the 335i and the other BMW models. My shoulder was cramped. I fit fine in the 335i. The 640i drove fantastic. Perfect cruising car. Every kind of luxury right at your fingertips.

Left there and went to the Lexus dealership to drive this RC 350 F Sport. I had no problem fitting in this car. I drove the one in a blue color.

4.5 seconds in the 1/4 mile. It was a very fast little car. It sits low to the ground and corners better than anything I drove.

It has the upgraded suspension, steering and drivetrain. Had all the luxury of 640i in a fast little sports car.

It's listed at $55K so you would expect more than the mid 30's 335i's I've been looking at but this is one sweet ride.
http://www.ohgizmo.com/wp-content/up...-RC-F-0421.jpg

http://cnet4.cbsistatic.com/hub/i/r/...rcfsport10.jpg
http://www.carsreviews2014.com/wp-co...t-interior.jpg

Too bad on the fit not working for the 640i but probably the most important things is being comfortable sitting in the car. Perfect cursing car is probably how I'd say it as from the several times I have driven one as well.

Not surprising about the luxury interior on the Lexus since they are well known for doing one of the best. Lexus also would likely offer less of the reliability/maintenance cost issues of a German car.

Think the RC F might be the one with the 0-60 of 4.5 but would ignore that and just go off how you like driving it.

Yeah, if you have to travel a lot or do some highway commuting, I don't see how you can do better.
Yeah the reliability and maintance is a big deal for me. I don't want to screw around with a broken down car down the road. Yeah, I don't really care about 0-60 times. I'm way too old to be racing.;) But, that cornering with speed was pretty damn cool.

None of the German cars are unreliable in the sense that it will leave you broken down but more of just increasing the chances of having to take it in for something. That is still incontinent when under warranty and more so when not.

I'm with you on 0-60 times and stuff like that. Can be a rough idea of how quick a car can feel but all that really matters is having enough power you enjoy it without having an itch for something quicker. I find stuff like ride and handling (well below the actual limits vs. what it can actually do on a track) to be a big part of enjoying are car on the road and on a daily basis. To put it more simply its just finding what you enjoy most a complete package rather than performance on paper.

That Lexus gets sexier by the minute. Along with it's proven best reliability, I'd get that if I were you.

Yeah I'm a member of consumer reports. That was good information on reliability that you posted earlier.

Assuming you care more about your car purchase than just something to drive to work and can afford to drive a car you love.

Reliability is a major factor in my decision. But, its not the top reason. I think with any car purchase the deciding factors have to be....Are you comfortable in the car? Do you feel the love?

Looks like the Lexus is the one unless you find a 335i without sports seats to test drive? Can't really go wrong.

Just noticed what autocorrect did to inconvenient in my earlier reply. Totally agree with how you put it for deciding factors and that can get lost sometimes.

Yup

http://resources.carsguide.com.au/st...y-2014-(1).jpg

Nice ass

http://www.themotorreport.com.au/con...mc:819x819.jpg

Yeah, I've been thinking about what I really want. What I like in cars. I've always loved the late 60's-early 70's muscle cars. I use to ride around in them as a teenager. Fond memories. Pure nostalgia, I know. I was looking at the lower level Challengers. I've decided that I need to look at the more upscale Challengers.

I'm looking at the 6.4L 428 HP Scat pack. It's the same block as the Hellcat. It has all the luxury accessories of the BMI's/Lexus. I don't expect it to handle better than the BMW's and Lexus's. But, the retro look appeals to me in a way that a modern sports or luxury car can't.

Here's the one I'll test drive tomorrow:

http://www.tampachryslerjeepdodge.co...bdafbb1c62.htm
http://pictures.dealer.com/n/northta...2282c7f2cx.jpg
http://pictures.dealer.com/n/northta...3bf435053x.jpg

Well that car was already sold. I'm finding out that this is one popular car due to it sharing the same 6.4L block as the hellcat. Dodge isn't building that many either.

I guess people are making the decision that 484 horsepower is enough.

60%-70% of all these cars sold in the USA are pre-ordered and built to specifications of the owner. The remaining 30%-40% are pretty much sold before they even hit the lot. Buyers see the car pop up automatically on the dealers website as in transit. It's bought before it even actually physically hits the lot.

The problem I have is that this SCAT PACK and HELLCAT models have the modified seats from the R/T seats. They have the wings that caused me an issue in the BMW's and Lexus's. But, I cant even find a car within 250 miles to sit in to see if it fits.

And if it doesn't fit I'm at the same crossroads as I was with the 335i's. Just buy the different seats on the secondary market and put them in the car.
http://4carcentral.com/wp-content/up...-barracuda.jpg

It's a done deal. I've bought and ordered a 2015 Challenger SCAT Pack Shaker. 392 Hemi 6.2L, 486 HP, 475 toruque, 4.1 second 1/4 mile. Has all the same luxury "stuff" as the BMW and Lexus's.

Last years "Shaker" models sold out in 4 days. I decided if I was going retro, go all in and went with the lime green 1971 Challenger remodel. Bumblebee stripe and the Shaker hood. I deleted the stripes on the roof and the hood. Will take 6-8 weeks for delivery. Dark wheels. It's really weird to spend $50K on a car you have never drove the exact model, little own even seen.http://www.dodge.com/assets/images/v...catpackbee.jpg
http://ee87d4d090fab01706393419.carr...15-800x480.jpg

Congrats on hunting one of those down. Imagine that engine is going to be a blast and also a big fan of unique cars like that.

If I was gonna have one of those it would either be that green or purple.


Classic mopar.


Nice car dude. Congrats

And it's no way 4.1 in the 1/4

I saw a time slip From one with minor mods that ran a 12.28

I will be giving $50 to the charity of their choice to Bearcat, Miles and Simply Red. Just let me know your choice of charity and I'll get the money to them ASAP.

You guys have been awesome.

I'm sure thats BS like most car company propaganda. As me and Miles discussed earlier in the thread, I just use them as some kind of broad gauge as to how fast it is compared to other models.

I did drive a 392 Hemi scat pack just not one with the Shaker. Because it was just released to order on Tuesday. But, I must admit to already looking at some mods.;)

The one I drove was one fast beast. It's dragging 4000 lbs down the road too. 185MPH top speed and how fast that 8 speed automatic gets up to top speed was scary. I can see how people will loose control of these like they do in the Hellcat's.

But you had soo many cool cars on the list, what happened ROFL

Congrats man.

Maybe one day I can order a car. :D

Unless it's a super lemon I'm sure you will love the **** out of it. I really want to drive one now...

Congrats and cool car. I bet the 4.1 is 0-60 mph time.

I think the color choice on a car like that is spot on with that green. Good choice even though many will say they don't like it. Tell them to **** off!

Yeah, I could have had the Lexus RC 350 F-Sport, a nice BMW etc. Those cars are awesome.

I guess a redneck can move out of the Ozarks but not the redneck out of the person. ;)

Bottom line is the heart wants what the heart wants. For me, this was the only one that made me giddy as a 6 year old on Christmas day.

Marshawn Lynch in car format

You are correct sir. OP corrected.

What should I chose for a license plate? All the obvious ones are taken. Shaker, SCAT PAK etc.

Congrats, that is sweet looking package from someone who is not at all a fan of the Challenger. Nice to see one that doesn't have 6 inches of space between the tire and fender.

Also congrats on attention whoring for over a month and 500+ plus posts only to buy what you originally set out to buy anyway. :Poke:

I'm complete N00b on the gear head part of cars. This place has been awesome on educating this ignorant driver.:thumb:

Come on down here and give it a test drive.:thumb:
The cool thing is that I can only get $3500 out of my Mustang from dealers. If I can sell it for more than that to a buyer, I pocket the money and just show up on delivery date with the $3500.

Well I guess I'm one of the lucky ones and got my order in before they cut off sales. Got my VIN# and should start the build within 30 days.

I only have 7 letters to work with. I'm thinking of going with........WHTNOIS

GRNLNTRN

By the way, I LOVE that color on Mopars, that and the grape soda purple.

Well crap, totally missed this and then forgot about your PM... congrats.

With that color.... ANTIFRZ, obviously.

Kick ass dude.

If you want the 71 Challenger style, go all in with one of those two colors. But, its a modern day real muscle car. No BS. It flat out moves those 4000lbs down the road. Same engine block as the hellcat.

our name suggestion is 8 letters.

stfulol

^License plate

With 7 letters the obvious answer is AIDSFIR. Even better with 8.

ANTIFRZ - Well the car is green!

Thats available. Wanted something funny, not some pretend bad ass name. This engine is winning races against the GT500, Vettes, drifters etc. at the local drag tracks despite its weight. Thats bad ass enough for me.LMAO

I'd say ANTIFRZ then.

And if you get that, hopefully someone yells "Die in an aids tree fire"

SCATMAN

Learning from the boards that some are saying the SCAT Pack shakers "feel"
faster than the Hellcats. Everybody knows it isn't. But, why does it "feel" that way? A guy tries to explain............

Like many muscle cars, the Hellcat is long-legged, with a first gear good for 63 mph—a ploy to eliminate a shift on its way to 60 mph. By the time the Hellcat maxes out second gear (at 90 mph), the Scat Pack's eight-speed automatic is in fourth, its V8 having slapped redline in first, second, and third gears. Running a vocal engine through closely spaced, short gears is one of life's great pleasures, with each redline crescendo heightening the feeling of acceleration. That experience alone is enough to trick someone into thinking a car is quicker than it is.

Another factor is that our brains learn to ignore constant acceleration. Ever notice how a jet plane only feels like it's accelerating hard for the first third of the runway, even though it's gathering speed the whole way? Shifting gears highlights how hard a car is pulling because the momentary pause acts like a reference mark for zero acceleration. The more often a car shifts, the faster it feels.


That's the subjective stuff, but physics provides an even clearer explanation. The shorter a gear—that is, the higher its numerical ratio—the more it multiplies an engine's torque. The more torque at the Challenger's rear wheels, the faster it will accelerate.

The Hellcat's driveline has an overall first-gear ratio of 8.4:1, meaning its rear wheels turn only 8.4 times as quickly as its crankshaft. In exchange for the speed reduction, the wheels receive 8.4 times the torque. Behold the miracle of gearing. Multiply the V8's 650 lb-ft by that number, and the Hellcat's rear axles endure some 5400 lb-ft of peak torque at full throttle in first gear, enough to fling the car forward at a maximum of 1.02 g. In other words, the Hellcat's maximum acceleration is about the same as it would be if it fell off the Golden Gate Bridge.

The Scat Pack accelerates even harder. Its V8 produces only 475 lb-ft of torque, but its super-short gearing multiplies that output by 14.5 times, and its rear tires are asked to cope with up to 6900 lb-ft. If they could put this power to the ground (they can't), the Challenger would rocket forward with a maximum 1.37 g of acceleration. That's a ride you would not soon forget.


It's the same in every other gear. The Scat Pack briefly accelerates harder—and thus feels faster—than the Hellcat. But because the Hellcat pulls hard for longer, it's ultimately the faster car.

Well here is the car after all the advise. I've been going back through and repping everyone. I've repped out. I'll get to you. Charity money out to Bearcat and Miles. Money still due to Simply Red when he returns.

The car looks great, and for your use its going to be more than adequate.

Good buy! At least its not a BMW :P

Looks great man. Especially with those backdrops.

Miles and Bearcat will be in here shortly to smack you around for such blasphemy.LMAO

Looks great BRC and congrats on getting exactly what you wanted. Have said before that I'm a big fan of unique cars and will make it age all that much better when you don't see the same model driving to work on daily basis. Nice work with the pics with that background as well.

Gary Dean end up shooting vids of his work?

Not bad. I think the color is shiteous, though.

To each his own. I just like cars and don't have a ton of brand loyalty. BMW ticks a lot of the boxes that appeal to me over the years.