nicoff

My wife wants to replace her beloved Acura Legend GS. She does NOT want a big car. She drove a BMW 330Ci with performance package and really liked the way it drives, but I mentioned that she should try other vehicles. She wants something sporty, she would prefer a manual transmission. She would need 4 seats.

She will definitely get what she wants (I know better!). However, she has asked me for suggestions to test drive and I promised to comply. So far, others have suggested (going from memory here so forgive me if I leave one out) the Audi S4, Acura TL, Infiniti G35, VW R32, Volvo S40.

Any suggestions? Thanks to all!!

sgtpeper

I can comment on the R32. I spent a bit of time test driving and researching them as a possible next car. If she wants a coupe I think it is a great way to go. The overall package is fantastic. Its no 996 for sure but the car is very soilid and very capable. Its not a stop light demon but it is fast. And the exhaust note is incredible for a car of this nature. It is also quite economical - decent gas mileage and with the rear seats down it can haul a good amount of stuff. Its also fairly rare as its a one year car. With the new mk5 body style coming soon prices are sure to start dropping pretty fast. Last I heard some people were already getting deals as low as 27500 for them - new of course.

Just throwin some info out there for ya
-Jeff

Moogle

out of the cars you mentioned, i would say stick with the 330Ci.

Gnome

I haven't driven, but have heard good things about the Subaru WRX and Mitsubishi Evo. May not be luxurious enough, but supposedly are great performance at a very reasonable price.

And what about a 996? It has four seats. (Have to recommend it, this is a 996 board after all)

Alfie

The Audi seems like the best match between performance and luxury, but if new, also carries the highest price tag. It would be my choice, but hey, I sell them, I'm biased...

houldsworth1

So far I have not been impressed with any of the '4' series Audis that I have tried, but I must admit that I have not tried the S4.
Some friends have the G35 and it is universally loved by all of them.
I could be wrong but I think the TL only comes as an automatic (yuk).
If she is used to high end cars then the WRX and Evo will feel pretty basic. I also did not feel that the WRX involved me enough - sure it was fast but it did not feel like a sports car, just like a fast sedan.

Finally, have you considered the RX8?

Barry

TurboMark

Bang for the buck, I would go with the TL ...

SoonerE39

330Ci or VW R32

NickS

Agreed. That's a lot of car for the money. If only it were RWD.

eternal

I've driven the S4 and it was awesome! As mentioned above though, it carries a hefty price tag!

chris walrod

S4 for the high end, A4 or 330ci alternatively.

LAJ_996

having recently gone through the same issues as you, i chose
the R32. the history of the car is interesting. it is a limited production,
also german engineering, which i liked.
all wheel drive is a bonus (not sure where you live if that is an issue).
fast enough for most needs, yet fun to drive.
quite cost effective (26,600 for me with vw incentive).
i just don't see these around my neck of the woods.
this car always generates a lot of interest/questions.
good luck

roy

aktundramonkey

My wife was in the same situation and ended up ordering the Volvo V70R for European delivery in December. I never thought we'd own a Volvo, but a 24 hour test drive sold us over the A4 and BMW wagons. Performance, value and conveniences are way above the competition, IMHO.

vove

Get the 330CI. Stay away from those other ones unless she's the conservative type.

_just my 3 cents.

Sanjeevan

S4