<p>Right now I'm driving around in a 2000 Toyota Sienna Minivan given to me by my father. Over the summer, I will be looking for a car to buy. With a MAX price of 42-43K before taxes, and before haggling, what cars do you guys suggest?</p>
<p>Keep in mind that I'm 6 feet, and with a wide body frame. I was thinking about Mercedes C class, but after being disappointed with both the drive, and the small room I have ruled it out. The BMW 3 series was a joy to drive, it felt like I was floating on air, but once again the problem of size was apparent. (I'm also a little worried about buying another BMW, as my father owns the 7 series). </p>
<p>Given my situation, what cars do you guys recommend?
What was your first car?</p>
<p>^My grandpa wanted to get me a red BMW convertible for my sweet sixteen -_-</p>
<p>But personally I believe that you actually have to work for a good car so I just asked for a Kindle instead. I’m fine with my mom’s old car or no car at all. </p>
<p>I don’t feel the drive to get a car honestly. (pun intended)</p>
<p>Who’s bragging? My parents are not buying me a car. The car is paid through the money I have earned through stocks, working, and selling the Sienna (10 years, 80,000 miles, getting quotes of about $5,000.) </p>
<p>Given that I live in a Northern NJ town, these cars are very common. </p>
<p>I would appreciate suggestions, not insults…</p>
<p>There is nothing truly wrong with the Lexus IS, but it dosen’t give you that “kick” when your driving it. It’s smooth and luxurious, but it jut can’t compare to the driving of a BMW, and Audi. </p>
<p>At the same time, the IS is truly not a “manly” car; females seem to buy the IS alot. </p>
<p>Furthermore, in the past one did not need to worry about Toyota/Lexus reliability, but in today’s world all the recalls have tarnished Lexus/Toyota’s image… (and have made consumers scared of the brands).</p>
<p>I know. I asked my mom if they were recalling Lexus’ so I could get the IS. But I have a love/hate relationship with my Lexus. I really want an Audi, or a guy who drives one.</p>
<p>I personally drive a 1995 Ford Probe GT, I love it, but I want a 6-speed.</p>
<p>If you have that kind of money to spend, you can get a BMW 335i (maybe x-Drive if you can get a good deal on it). I would personally get a 2005 Subaru Impreza WRX STi since that’s my dream car.</p>
<p>Honestly, out of the pseudo-luxury cars listed here, I’d go with the 3 series. To date, it still drives better than others in its class. I’ve also heard good things about the Audi A5 as well.</p>
<p>But to be honest… I feel none of those cars have that much character. </p>
<p>Speaking as a car guy, with 42K, i’d be looking at completely different cars.</p>
<p>-1st Generation Camaro SS/RS
-1st Gen Ford Mustang
-“996” series Porsche 911 (Turbo if you can find a good deal)
-“E46” series BMW M3
-2010 Shelby GT500 (If somehow you can find another $8k)</p>
<p>Yes, the majority of these cars would come used… yet these are some of the best cars out there for under 40k IMO (Especially considering you seem to be able to afford the insurance and maintenance of more expensive cars)</p>