I am thinking about what to get in a year or so for baby hauling and thought I would see what you guys think. As of right now, the front runners are E39 Touring (I drive) or Volvo V70 (wife driving). What are some good alternatives of these? I don't want to lose any more interior space so lets use the 5 series as a benchmark. Things that are important: reliable, decent MPGs, fun to drive (this is mainly for me, but the wife likes the way the BMW drives, especially with the sport pack).
V70 is a good choice
MAZDA6 MANUAL! Done. I'm a Mazda guy. 
Saab 9-5 Aero
http://atlanta.craigslist.org/atl/cto/3829552329.html
WRX or 325it? This could be a good thread I'm looking forward to it
V70 is a good car, as long as:
2.Don't buy one with a stick. They are ergonomically challenged. ( as polite as I can be)
3.Make sure you have a decent Volvo shop nearby. Never buy a European car without having access to a smart guy with factory scan capability.
thestig99 wrote: Saab 9-5 Aero
^^^^^^^ This.
Streetwiseguy wrote: V70 is a good car, as long as: 2.Don't buy one with a stick. They are ergonomically challenged. ( as polite as I can be)
I drove an 850 with a stick... I did not find it that ergonomically challenging. Not as nice as the BMW that proceeded it, but it was still better than my last Hyundai
Hmm, E39, Volvo, or Subie. I vote wrx or Forester XT. If you are unsure that this choice is correct, I present evidence:
http://www.streetfire.net/video/top-gear-season-19-episode-6-africa-special-i_part-1_2420957.htm
Well, I think the BMW and Volvo are both nicer, but a Legacy GT wagon is fast, comfortable, roomy and relatively cheap to buy and maintain.
Mazda6 wagon or
Forester. With minimal suspension mods, you can drive the heck out of it.
Here's the best Forrester story I've heard: http://www.modified.com/editors/0801_sccp_dear_dave_coleman_tech_questions/viewall.html
And the runner-up... http://www.modified.com/features/0410_sccp_subaru_wrx_wagon/
That is awesome, I could have a forester as a one car I think. The Saab Aero is the rebadged WRX isn't it?
9-2x Aero is the rebadged WRX. The 9-5 Aero could also be had in wagon form:
Would have been nice if they had put the 3.0 CRD in the Dodge Magnums so you could a version that was fun to drive AND got great mpg... oh well.
Well, I have ruled OUT the Forester, wrx, and 3 series based on interior space.
The info on the V70 is helpful since I have no idea what model that I should be looking for. I did know that I should avoid AWD for reliability reasons.
I like the idea of a Saab Aero Sport Combi with a stick. I would totally rock that.
I love the idea of a 6 wagon with a manual but talk about unicorns. I love how you suggested that, Poop, and then posted an automatic.
Does anyone have any personal experience with the Dodge Magnum? I would probably be looking for a 3.5L version for MPGs.
Honda Accord. 94-97.
Pity on the Forester. I fit a 7.0 Cubic foot dryer in the back while it was still in the box.
The Mazda6 automatic transmission isn't at all bad.
Yes, i own a Magnum. There's nothing wrong with the 3.5 other than not being exciting. It's a reliable motor and trans. My 2.7 magnum is at around 112k with no real issues other than a throttle body code that's popped up lately that ive been ignoring because the car works fine. I've heard they have front lower ball joint issues but mine are original and just fine. Other than that i dont know of any real problem areas. I think they just work.
Oh wait, there is a power seat issue on some cars. I've done the repair, it's not too hard.
The 9-5 Aero is a great suggestion. They have depreciated really hard with Saab's misfortune but parts are still easy and they are easy to make VERY fast. Even a regular 2.3T manual wagon can go considerably faster with a downpipe and tune. Pretty comfy cars too.
Saaburu, wrx, or fxt if gas mileage is of no concern. Mazda 6 if it is.
That Saab wagon is sure a looker
Leafy wrote: Saaburu, wrx, or fxt if gas mileage is of no concern. Mazda 6 if it is.
Somebody didnt read the thread.
The saab is a nice looking ride.
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