Choosing your next love… May 15, 2011
From the Desk of: Matt Smith
It’s rare to have the chance to choose your next love. I always fall in love much too quickly and end up getting hurt, so this time I made a promise to myself, “Do your research first, kid.” Since my 3000GT VR-4 is being retired this summer for a massive track-car preparation/overhaul, I need a daily driver. So, which car should I buy?
Should I pick an SUV? An Isuzu Trooper or a Mitsubishi Montero would be nice to drive. They would be handy for hauling my race car when I need to and all the building materials or parts I need for it. However, they’re not easy on gas, and I intend to make many trips up to Baltimore to see my parents.
Or perhaps a nice little 4 door passenger car? Maybe a Volvo S40? I could really use something light on gas but capable of transporting some friends and I to the local pub. It’s not the perfect solution, but I could see myself sporting a decent 4-door. I would certainly keep it stock and reliable.
Or should I get a sporty 2 door? Maybe a late 80’s CRX or Civic Si? I love Mitsubishi, so maybe a 95-99 Eclipse? They aren’t bad cars and I have years of experience working on Mitsubishis. But I’d probably end up catching the “mod. bug” and I really don’t want that. I already have one toy car.
Of more concern, what fits in my poor college student budget? At most, I could see spending $2000 for a daily driver, including the cost of replacement parts to make the car safe. So realistically, I’m looking at a $1000 car. Those are tough to find, and even more so when you’re being picky and trying to find a reliable example.
I could find a project car, build it quickly into a daily driver, and then retire my 3000GT from DD duties. A mechanic’s special is more than welcome, as long as the price is right.
I just don’t know…what do you think?
Comments
- sethmeister4 wrote: Aug 2, 2011 11:37 p.m.
- 95-99 Maxima. Room for friends, plenty of power. And you can get a 5 spd if you want:-)