by VEFF on Mon Sep 29, 2003 2:47 pm
What if you feel like being (a bit of) both at the same time?
In any case, it is all personal preference.
Some guys like adept handling and cornerning, power etc., while
others like a cushy ride and don't mind if the car leans (heavily) in turns.
Others like a bit of both, in varying proportions...
I wish I had not hesitated with the 2003 247 HP Volvo S60 T5 w/ manual transmission. Now only the 2004s are available (at least as per carsdirect) at about $3,000 more.
It was only about $25.5K, and had great performance, FWD, capable handling (not quite BMW 3 series-like, but good enough), excellent safety scores * , elegant look and feel.
* One reason I am trading my current car is that it lacks side airbags.
I am still considering getting one of the following:
2004 VW Passat GLS 1.8T 5 spd w/ leather (chipped to boost HP by 35 and torque by 80 lbs/ft!!).
2004 Subaru WRX stick shift w/ premium package (sunroof and spoiler).
2004 BMW 325xi AWD manual (would get it chipped, since my current car is faster in its stock form than the Beemer).
2004 Volvo S60 T5 w/ manual transmission.
2003 Saab 9-3 Arc (big discount below invoice keeps it in middle of price range with the others I have selected)
"Almost rans":
2003 Acura CL Type S with 6 speed manual
2003 Jaguar X-Type 2.5 w/ X2 sport package (sport suspension etc.)
2004 Nissan Maxima SE manual.
I don't want a RWD car, otherwise the Infiniti G35 and Mazda RX8 would be at the VERY top of my list!
Burners only:
Pioneer DVR-115D
Pioneer DVR-111D
Plextor PX-716A TLA0304
Plextor PX-716A same TLA
LiteOn 52246S 52X CD-RW
LiteOn 52246S (another)
LiteOn 52327S 52X CD-RW
TDK 40X USB 2.0 CD-RW
TEAC CD-W540E 40X CD-RW