I need a new car!

Smooth S70 · 11/21/2007, 09:12 PM

Well I don't really need a new car but I want a new car. I am thinking about trading the Eclipse in for something a bit nicer, more upscale. My other thought is to just keep the Eclipse and get another car on top of that. What I need from you guys is some opinions...here are the cars I like, let me know what you think or if there is another car in this category that you would pick...pictures would be great too...

The Eclipse

Audi A4 UltraSport
White

Red

Black

Silver

Grey

Mercedes Benz C230
Black

Red

White

BuckyBoy · 11/21/2007, 09:17 PM

they both look good. red looks best on both of them imo

penumbra GTS · 11/21/2007, 09:34 PM

If you plan on tradin' in the eclipse have you checked kelly blue book to see what your car trade in is worth?? That may help you on decidin' if you want to keep the eclipse or not. I like the Audi A4 UltraSport in grey. Good luck on the new car purchase!!

chrs870621345 · 11/22/2007, 12:04 AM

i think the red looks hott on both cars, but i would go with the benz.

Circuit · 11/22/2007, 02:01 AM

A4 >> C230.

gt_02 · 11/22/2007, 02:41 AM

The white Audi looks very nice.

rocketbass88 · 11/22/2007, 09:24 AM

Audi reliability sucks, for that alone I'll say the MB. Although I'm not too fond of that car either. Have you considered a slightly older M3, like a 2000-2003 or so?

04MOJOGT · 11/22/2007, 10:42 AM

I say go for the white one. I love white and keep the 3g. Youll loose so much on it trading it in. Youd be better off selling it to someone on down the road. But id go with the WHite A4...... that things Sexy.

Regulator · 11/22/2007, 10:51 AM

I'd drive the 3G into the ground. It looks better than 90% of the cars on the road as it sits now. If it has no problems, just stick with it and keep saving.

I've also never liked the idea of buying the entry level of any car company, even if it is an MB.

Bitter · 11/22/2007, 11:04 AM

i've worked on a C230, pain in the ass and part costs are a joke. audi's reliablity sucks. you're fucked either way really, i worked on and drove a 2006 volvo s60 that was pretty nice. smooth quiet ride, great brakes, lots of power at the drop of a hat. the TCS sort of sucks, a tire spun in the rain going up a hill and i could lift throttle and reapply before the TCS knew what to do

Sam · 11/22/2007, 11:23 AM

A choice between two entry level sports sedans with proven reliability issues. I would rather own a new Hyundai.

rocketbass88 · 11/22/2007, 12:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Regulator

I'd drive the 3G into the ground. It looks better than 90% of the cars on the road as it sits now. If it has no problems, just stick with it and keep saving.

I've also never liked the idea of buying the entry level of any car company, even if it is an MB.

This is the best piece of advice in this thread. Think of how much money you'll be saving while you drive this and how much nicer of a car you can buy in a few years when the 3g dies. Right now you have one of the VERY few nice looking 3gs left.

Smooth S70 · 11/22/2007, 03:28 PM

The reason I am looking to get something a bit nicer is because I will be graduating College, getting a job (with a division of Ritz-Carlton) and I feel that the eclipse won't suite my everyday driving needs anymore. If I'm going to be traveling a lot, on the phone while I drive, taking people with me in my car..I feel I need something a little more Business Like...I really like the Lexus IS300, my brother has one of those, thats the only reason I don't want to get one of them, I also like the Acura TL and the BMW 3 Series.

I have heard that there have been problems with the Audi and MB but I have also heard that about the Eclipse, and mine has 60,000 Miles on it and I havn't had any problems.

What other cars would you suggest? with a price of no more then $25,000, I like near the Manheim Auto Auction and I have a contact there that I will be getting the car from for dealer costs...

Twizted3g · 11/22/2007, 04:15 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Smooth S70

The reason I am looking to get something a bit nicer is because I will be graduating College, getting a job (with a division of Ritz-Carlton) and I feel that the eclipse won't suite my everyday driving needs anymore. If I'm going to be traveling a lot, on the phone while I drive, taking people with me in my car..I feel I need something a little more Business Like...I really like the Lexus IS300, my brother has one of those, thats the only reason I don't want to get one of them, I also like the Acura TL and the BMW 3 Series.

I have heard that there have been problems with the Audi and MB but I have also heard that about the Eclipse, and mine has 60,000 Miles on it and I havn't had any problems.

What other cars would you suggest? with a price of no more then $25,000, I like near the Manheim Auto Auction and I have a contact there that I will be getting the car from for dealer costs...

Really?

Isnt talking on your phone while driving illegal now in most states? And all you are looking for is a car that will make you look more important, atleast that is what Im getting from this.

Save up and get a bmw, because being on the side of the road in a suit and tie sucks!

Regulator · 11/22/2007, 04:56 PM

I understand where you're coming from, I will definitely need to upgrade when I graduate and move onto a corporate job; something tells me I don't want to be pulling up in my cat-less 3G with red racing seats

$25,000 leaves a lot open in the used car department. With that much money and what you're looking for, I'd look into a used 5 series, most likely the 540. I've heard Bimmers spend a lot of time in the garage, so that might be something you want to research. Either way, you have a lot of options with 25 grand to spend. Good luck, I'm sure you'll pick something nice.

Regulator · 11/22/2007, 05:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Twizted3g

Really?

Isnt talking on your phone while driving illegal now in most states? And all you are looking for is a car that will make you look more important, atleast that is what Im getting from this.

He's looking for a car to make him look professional, dumb ass. A boy racer 3G isn't going to exude class and sophistication to his client and colleagues.

drelo · 11/22/2007, 05:18 PM

Also bluetooth is a wonderful invention.

I would look for either an Acura or Lexus within your price range. Reliability would be high on my priority list.

Smooth S70 · 11/22/2007, 07:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Regulator

He's looking for a car to make him look professional, dumb ass. A boy racer 3G isn't going to exude class and sophistication to his client and colleagues.

This is correct! Thanks for clearing that up for everyone!

Quote:

Originally Posted by drelo

Also bluetooth is a wonderful invention.

I would look for either an Acura or Lexus within your price range. Reliability would be high on my priority list.

Yes Bluetooth is amazing and I would love to have a car with it, however I feel that the cars with Bluetooth are out of my price range, I don't want something with a lot of miles, and while I can spend $25,000 that would be getting rid of the Eclipse to do so...which I don't really want to do.

gtseclipse · 11/22/2007, 07:51 PM

My friend has got the C230 in mars red with I-forged 19" wheels and a few other extras, in stick shift and i love it, heres a quick pic

Invictus · 11/22/2007, 08:21 PM

I agree with some other members in that it might be worthwhile to just hold onto the 3G as long as it's sound and see what options present themselves in the future.

However, some other options I would take a look at might be an Acura TL or Lexus IS/ES/GS. Good luck!

rocketbass88 · 11/22/2007, 08:56 PM

If you're going to look at BMWs, definatly look for a pre-2003. The reliability has been disgusting since then. That's why I suggested a slightly older M3, that way if you get rid of the 3g you'd still have a very sporty car, but you would also have a very professional looking car.

Regulator · 11/22/2007, 09:12 PM

Hell, Id save up a few more grand and get the 300C SRT-8. I love that car.

PSUDUG · 11/23/2007, 09:31 AM

I recently made a similar car decision. I wanted something a little nicer and bigger. I looked at the audi's, c230's, and acura tsx/tl's, and saabs. I went with the saab. more fun to drive then the above and luxurious.

Anus! · 11/23/2007, 09:34 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sam

A choice between two entry level sports sedans with proven reliability issues. I would rather own a new Hyundai.

I agree. but between those two, I know the C230 is tiny inside. I'm 6'2ish and I was super cramped. more so than the eclise and way more than my honda.

the audi felt much better, probably offers more aftermarket and for less and to be honest, my friends that have had both cars never had a problem.

kabob · 11/23/2007, 08:24 PM

Being a current owner of an entry level luxury sedan, I say pass on this segment. The cars, unless you're buying a brand new MB C-class or Infinity G37, are woefully underpowered, boring to drive if you're coming from a sports car background, common as herpes since it seems everyone has one, cramped in the interior, expensive to fix and repair, and oftentimes high on insurance (my car certainly is).

I suggest either a sports car/coupe (Lotus Elise, 350Z, Poncho GTO) or a higher-end luxury sedan if you can afford it.

00EclipseMA · 11/27/2007, 01:07 PM

I own an A4 and the reliability is not good. Coilpacks will be the worst word you could ever hear. Although driving it in the snow kicks major ass. Tuning and suspension are great and a simple chip makes them fun to drive. There are a couple of threads where Rulez and myself talk about our cars with likes and dislikes.

Smooth S70 · 12/11/2007, 12:27 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 00EclipseMA

I own an A4 and the reliability is not good. Coilpacks will be the worst word you could ever hear. Although driving it in the snow kicks major ass. Tuning and suspension are great and a simple chip makes them fun to drive. There are a couple of threads where Rulez and myself talk about our cars with likes and dislikes.

What do you mean by this? like a Performance Chip? Got a link for it? I know people say reliability isn't good, but my friends sister has a 2004 S4 and she has had no problems with it, I really love the A4 and I wanna give it a shot. I think I will be going with a 2005 A4 Ultra Sport in White with a Black Interior...

gts03eclipse · 12/11/2007, 09:38 AM

what about an acura tl type s. wow, they are so hot, its got your mix of luxury and doesnt lack in the sport department either. hot stock wheels and performance tuned quad exhaust. sounds awesome to me

HIJACKER · 12/11/2007, 11:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gts03eclipse

what about an acura tl type s. wow, they are so hot, its got your mix of luxury and doesnt lack in the sport department either. hot stock wheels and performance tuned quad exhaust. sounds awesome to me

Didn't you read his limit of 25k? That car exceeds that.

I personally HATE the wheels they put on it, looks tacky.

gts03eclipse · 12/11/2007, 12:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by HIJACKER

Didn't you read his limit of 25k? That car exceeds that.

I personally HATE the wheels they put on it, looks tacky.

oh ok, sorry didnt see the 25k limit. but nonetheless great car, and in no way do i see the "tackiness" of the wheels. but yeah, over the price limit, my bad

kabob · 12/11/2007, 05:57 PM

Blech, the TL is front-wheel drive and that will forever be a demerit to most sports sedan enthusiasts.

Sam · 12/11/2007, 08:55 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Smooth S70

I think I will be going with a 2005 A4 Ultra Sport in White with a Black Interior...

Please make sure to post about it when it starts breaking; just so you can continue the streak of almost every 3G owner who switched to Audi only to discover how incredibly unreliable, and expensive to repair especially after we told them not to buy one in the first place.

icemanrld19 · 12/11/2007, 09:49 PM

Used lexus gs400 in the low 13k range

student driver · 12/11/2007, 11:02 PM

you might also want to look at a Volvo S60 R.

Quote:

Originally Posted by gtseclipse

My friend has got the C230 in mars red with I-forged 19" wheels and a few other extras, in stick shift and i love it, heres a quick pic

very nice

Cam · 12/12/2007, 10:50 AM

Damn Smooth...i am in the same boat. After graduating i need something more with class. I looked into tossing the eclipse but i think i would only be losing money. I only have 3k left to pay on it. I think i am going to try and keep it as a backup/travel car.

I was looking into an A4 as well but i am scared about the reliability issues. My eclipse has been acting up lately and i certainly dont want another car to do the same. BUT i really like the car and i think i may be getting one in White as well early next year. We shall see.

Goodluck to you in finding and getting what you want.

red3gspyder · 12/12/2007, 12:30 PM

Be very careful of what you buy. Look into what you want the car for and how you plan on driving it. I made the mistake and bought an evo8. All I can say is I really don't like that car. The quickness and handling are fantastic, if you’re throwing the car around. Daily driving is a killer. I didn't really look into it and didn't realize that the car uses premium gas, has a small tank and the turbo drinks it like it was a backsliding alcohahlic. I’ve looked into trading it in for something else, but I’m under and my payments would be sky-high. So for the time being all I can do is keep it and try to sell it to someone else, but that’s like pulling teeth (everyone wants it but no one can afford it).

11/21/2007, 09:12 PM	#1 (permalink)
Smooth S70 I'm lost... Join Date: May 2004 Location: Lancaster, PA Vehicle: 2000 Eclipse GT, Patriot Posts: 1,307	I need a new car! Well I don't really need a new car but I want a new car. I am thinking about trading the Eclipse in for something a bit nicer, more upscale. My other thought is to just keep the Eclipse and get another car on top of that. What I need from you guys is some opinions...here are the cars I like, let me know what you think or if there is another car in this category that you would pick...pictures would be great too... The Eclipse Audi A4 UltraSport White Red Black Silver Grey Mercedes Benz C230 Black Red White __________________ Last edited by Smooth S70; 11/21/2007 at 09:18 PM.

11/21/2007, 09:34 PM	#3 (permalink)
penumbra GTS ¡pura vida! Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: Georgia Posts: 843	If you plan on tradin' in the eclipse have you checked kelly blue book to see what your car trade in is worth?? That may help you on decidin' if you want to keep the eclipse or not. I like the Audi A4 UltraSport in grey. Good luck on the new car purchase!! __________________

11/22/2007, 02:01 AM	#5 (permalink)
Circuit Car Audio Mod #3 Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: Belmont, CA Vehicle: 2003 Mazda Protege5 Posts: 2,616	A4 >> C230. __________________

11/22/2007, 10:42 AM	#8 (permalink)
04MOJOGT Anastacia HOE!!!! Join Date: Jun 2004 Location: Charlotte NC Vehicle: 04 3g GT/ 03 SpecV Posts: 4,007	I say go for the white one. I love white and keep the 3g. Youll loose so much on it trading it in. Youd be better off selling it to someone on down the road. But id go with the WHite A4...... that things Sexy. __________________ Sold 10/11/08

11/22/2007, 10:51 AM	#9 (permalink)
Regulator Frank Join Date: May 2004 Location: UF Vehicle: 2001 GT Posts: 3,878	I'd drive the 3G into the ground. It looks better than 90% of the cars on the road as it sits now. If it has no problems, just stick with it and keep saving. I've also never liked the idea of buying the entry level of any car company, even if it is an MB. __________________

11/21/2007, 09:17 PM	#2 (permalink)
BuckyBoy Let it wang Join Date: May 2007 Location: Northeast GA Vehicle: 2008 Chevy Colorado Posts: 952	they both look good. red looks best on both of them imo

11/22/2007, 12:04 AM	#4 (permalink)
chrs870621345 QuickSLVR Join Date: Nov 2006 Location: Frederick, Maryland Vehicle: 350z Posts: 672	i think the red looks hott on both cars, but i would go with the benz.

11/22/2007, 02:41 AM	#6 (permalink)
gt_02 Red Beast Join Date: Mar 2006 Location: Seattle, WA Vehicle: 02 Eclipse GT Posts: 1,068	The white Audi looks very nice.

11/22/2007, 09:24 AM	#7 (permalink)
rocketbass88 Ass To Mouth Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: Greeley, CO Vehicle: '86 CJ-7 Posts: 6,268	Audi reliability sucks, for that alone I'll say the MB. Although I'm not too fond of that car either. Have you considered a slightly older M3, like a 2000-2003 or so?

11/22/2007, 11:04 AM	#10 (permalink)
Bitter am cat Join Date: May 2004 Location: South of Chicago Vehicle: 2007 Camaro Posts: 35,668	i've worked on a C230, pain in the ass and part costs are a joke. audi's reliablity sucks. you're fucked either way really, i worked on and drove a 2006 volvo s60 that was pretty nice. smooth quiet ride, great brakes, lots of power at the drop of a hat. the TCS sort of sucks, a tire spun in the rain going up a hill and i could lift throttle and reapply before the TCS knew what to do __________________ 2000 Celica GTS 'slowest gts evar' 1993 Geo Prizm 7A-FE/A245E

11/22/2007, 11:23 AM	#11 (permalink)
Sam Generally Bitter Join Date: Jun 2000 Location: Tallahassee, FL Vehicle: Yes Posts: 25,266	A choice between two entry level sports sedans with proven reliability issues. I would rather own a new Hyundai.

11/22/2007, 03:28 PM	#13 (permalink)
Smooth S70 I'm lost... Join Date: May 2004 Location: Lancaster, PA Vehicle: 2000 Eclipse GT, Patriot Posts: 1,307	The reason I am looking to get something a bit nicer is because I will be graduating College, getting a job (with a division of Ritz-Carlton) and I feel that the eclipse won't suite my everyday driving needs anymore. If I'm going to be traveling a lot, on the phone while I drive, taking people with me in my car..I feel I need something a little more Business Like...I really like the Lexus IS300, my brother has one of those, thats the only reason I don't want to get one of them, I also like the Acura TL and the BMW 3 Series. I have heard that there have been problems with the Audi and MB but I have also heard that about the Eclipse, and mine has 60,000 Miles on it and I havn't had any problems. What other cars would you suggest? with a price of no more then $25,000, I like near the Manheim Auto Auction and I have a contact there that I will be getting the car from for dealer costs... __________________

11/22/2007, 04:56 PM	#15 (permalink)
Regulator Frank Join Date: May 2004 Location: UF Vehicle: 2001 GT Posts: 3,878	I understand where you're coming from, I will definitely need to upgrade when I graduate and move onto a corporate job; something tells me I don't want to be pulling up in my cat-less 3G with red racing seats $25,000 leaves a lot open in the used car department. With that much money and what you're looking for, I'd look into a used 5 series, most likely the 540. I've heard Bimmers spend a lot of time in the garage, so that might be something you want to research. Either way, you have a lot of options with 25 grand to spend. Good luck, I'm sure you'll pick something nice. __________________

11/22/2007, 05:18 PM	#17 (permalink)
drelo Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2002 Location: NJ Vehicle: 09 Lancer GTS 5spd Posts: 3,886	Also bluetooth is a wonderful invention. I would look for either an Acura or Lexus within your price range. Reliability would be high on my priority list.

11/22/2007, 07:51 PM	#19 (permalink)
gtseclipse GTSEclipse Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: NY/NJ Vehicle: 2005 eclipse gts Posts: 1,856	My friend has got the C230 in mars red with I-forged 19" wheels and a few other extras, in stick shift and i love it, heres a quick pic

11/22/2007, 08:21 PM	#20 (permalink)
Invictus Gator 2013 Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: Gainesville, FL Vehicle: '08.5 Mazdaspeed3 Posts: 1,932	I agree with some other members in that it might be worthwhile to just hold onto the 3G as long as it's sound and see what options present themselves in the future. However, some other options I would take a look at might be an Acura TL or Lexus IS/ES/GS. Good luck!

11/22/2007, 08:56 PM	#21 (permalink)
rocketbass88 Ass To Mouth Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: Greeley, CO Vehicle: '86 CJ-7 Posts: 6,268	If you're going to look at BMWs, definatly look for a pre-2003. The reliability has been disgusting since then. That's why I suggested a slightly older M3, that way if you get rid of the 3g you'd still have a very sporty car, but you would also have a very professional looking car.

11/22/2007, 09:12 PM	#22 (permalink)
Regulator Frank Join Date: May 2004 Location: UF Vehicle: 2001 GT Posts: 3,878	Hell, Id save up a few more grand and get the 300C SRT-8. I love that car. __________________

11/23/2007, 09:31 AM	#23 (permalink)
PSUDUG Junior Member Join Date: May 2004 Location: Jersey Vehicle: 2002 Eclipse GT 5sp Posts: 21	I recently made a similar car decision. I wanted something a little nicer and bigger. I looked at the audi's, c230's, and acura tsx/tl's, and saabs. I went with the saab. more fun to drive then the above and luxurious.

11/23/2007, 08:24 PM	#25 (permalink)
kabob Camel Jockey Join Date: Jun 2001 Location: Dallas Vehicle: 2005 Lotus Elise Posts: 30,531	Being a current owner of an entry level luxury sedan, I say pass on this segment. The cars, unless you're buying a brand new MB C-class or Infinity G37, are woefully underpowered, boring to drive if you're coming from a sports car background, common as herpes since it seems everyone has one, cramped in the interior, expensive to fix and repair, and oftentimes high on insurance (my car certainly is). I suggest either a sports car/coupe (Lotus Elise, 350Z, Poncho GTO) or a higher-end luxury sedan if you can afford it.

11/27/2007, 01:07 PM	#26 (permalink)
00EclipseMA Senior Member Join Date: May 2004 Location: Ware, MA Vehicle: 02 Audi A4 1.8T Posts: 170	I own an A4 and the reliability is not good. Coilpacks will be the worst word you could ever hear. Although driving it in the snow kicks major ass. Tuning and suspension are great and a simple chip makes them fun to drive. There are a couple of threads where Rulez and myself talk about our cars with likes and dislikes.

12/11/2007, 09:38 AM	#28 (permalink)
gts03eclipse Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: Louisburg, NC Vehicle: 2003 GTS-PW Posts: 579	what about an acura tl type s. wow, they are so hot, its got your mix of luxury and doesnt lack in the sport department either. hot stock wheels and performance tuned quad exhaust. sounds awesome to me

12/11/2007, 05:57 PM	#31 (permalink)
kabob Camel Jockey Join Date: Jun 2001 Location: Dallas Vehicle: 2005 Lotus Elise Posts: 30,531	Blech, the TL is front-wheel drive and that will forever be a demerit to most sports sedan enthusiasts.

12/11/2007, 09:49 PM	#33 (permalink)
icemanrld19 stupid booster Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: claysburg, camden, martinsburg, bridgeport, addison/dallas. Vehicle: Single snailed spyder Posts: 7,065	Used lexus gs400 in the low 13k range

12/12/2007, 10:50 AM	#35 (permalink)
Cam Health Nut Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: Tallahassee, Fl Vehicle: '01 RS Posts: 5,857	Damn Smooth...i am in the same boat. After graduating i need something more with class. I looked into tossing the eclipse but i think i would only be losing money. I only have 3k left to pay on it. I think i am going to try and keep it as a backup/travel car. I was looking into an A4 as well but i am scared about the reliability issues. My eclipse has been acting up lately and i certainly dont want another car to do the same. BUT i really like the car and i think i may be getting one in White as well early next year. We shall see. Goodluck to you in finding and getting what you want. __________________ *Join Club3G Biggest Loser III* My Ride http://fsu.thefacebook.com/profile.php?id=5222239

12/12/2007, 12:30 PM	#36 (permalink)
red3gspyder Member Join Date: Jun 2006 Posts: 79	Be very careful of what you buy. Look into what you want the car for and how you plan on driving it. I made the mistake and bought an evo8. All I can say is I really don't like that car. The quickness and handling are fantastic, if you’re throwing the car around. Daily driving is a killer. I didn't really look into it and didn't realize that the car uses premium gas, has a small tank and the turbo drinks it like it was a backsliding alcohahlic. I’ve looked into trading it in for something else, but I’m under and my payments would be sky-high. So for the time being all I can do is keep it and try to sell it to someone else, but that’s like pulling teeth (everyone wants it but no one can afford it).