[RESOLVED] New car.

Well, I finally talked my 97 Dodge Stratus into running again this weekend, but I don't trust the thing, and I'm looking to trade it in. Here's the top 3 choices I'm looking at, and I'd appreciate feedback from anyone who owns/drives any of these models.

1) Mitsubishi Eclipse 3000GT - decent gas mileage, lots of speed and power, and it looks sweet. Most expensive of the 3, and would probably be an arm and a leg to insure, since I'm a 22 year old male.

2) Volkswagen Jetta - I've heard lots of nice things about it, and it seems to have a lot of room for such a small car. Gets better gas mileage, and wouldn't be as much to insure.

3) Toyota Echo - AWESOME gas mileage (40-45 mpg), and I can get one with all the options I want for about 13.5K. The only bad thing is it looks kinda stupid, and since it's a completely new model, finding parts could be a pain, if anything should go wrong.

Thanks for any input anyone can offer.

Mitsubishi Eclipse my brother owned one ... he loved it .. his wife made him get rid of it .. he says hed still wants one again

Go with the 3000GT. There are a few examples imported down here, and like you said, decent milage, and power to burn (our pursuit police are told not to bother chasing them...) Lovely looking too, but I can only hazard a guess at what insurance would cost.

The Echo's scare me. I think they are made like origami, out of a big sheet of aluminum, have a look at one after an accident, then think twice.

Good luck dude.

If you think you can afford it, go with the 3000GT. After all, you only live once....

Hey Cobra,

As a 22 year old male living in New Jersey insurance scares the S*** out of me. So while the 3000GT is a sweet car I would have to recommend the Jetta. My friend just got one and he's basically broke. The car looks sweet and handles nicely, don't know what color you are looking at but black with some tint looks good.

As an Eclipse owner, I have often lusted after my car's Big Brother. If you can afford it, buy the 3000GT. However, for less money and lower ins. you could pick up a '96-'99 Mistubishi Eclipse GSX. This car has just about everything the 3000GT has except high HP. The GSX is stock 210hp, with All-wheel Drive. Plus there is a huge after market performance parts that can be used to increase the already potent GSX. And the GSX can be found for cheaper than the Jetta. Although the jetta might have lower ins.

Cobra,
Here's what I would do:

1) Test drive each of the cars you're interested in. Don't limit yourself to the three cars you have listed - look at Honda's, Mazda's, etc... I drive a '99 Honda Civic (one of the safest cars in it's class), and get 30MPG around town, 40 Highway. It doesn't have that much power (106HP), but is VERY easy to drive...

2) Check with your insurance agent what it'd cost for insurance. The Mitsubishi, with more power, may cost a lot more than the other cars.

3) I wouldn't trade in my old car - dealers typically take the trade value off the sticker price of the new car. Selling your old car yourself may save you money.

That's my .02

Cobra have you seen the new Suberu WRX, they are more like the jetta but with the turbo power and all weel drive! They are sharp. But of course I cant afford one :-( sill paying on the old truck.

the jetta or the eclipse, i'd go eclipse though

Go with the Eclipse, it is a much better car, plus the Jetta is such a Yuppie mobile. I have a Dodge Avenger but I am thinking about getting a Mustang or a Firebird.

It would depend on who is buying. If it's your parents, get them to put up the money for the 3000GT then buy a used Toyota Supra, with the newer body style. I don't know much about cars, but I love that Supra. Thinking of getting one myself. The Nissan 300Twin Turbo is also really, really fast.

I personally prefer the VW for style/freeway driving, but for Cobra, it's all about the aftermarket! Look at the MODs you will want to do for cost/ease of install/style etc.
Also- echo the post about the civic--super reliable, very nice, neutral video-game handling (i have a 96 civic lx which is totally dreamy, though tyhe ex with v-tech engine would be preferred) - also if you can get a civic SI those are the dope.

Hey Cobra,

I'd look into the Civic Coupe HX. It has a V-tecE (E Stands for Economy) motor. It gets about the same mileage as the Echo and is friendly on the insurance. I just personally picked up a new Accord EX-L ($20,600)last month. I love thing. It gives me about 27 mpg even if I'm driving like a nut.

Of the cars on the list. I'd go with the Jetta. It's sensible and not too bulky. One of the other posts refered to the Jetta as a Yuppie class. I agree all the way but it's a good car and it'll have you driving around town with a good impression. If you're thinking "toy" go with the 3000GT for the upgradability. If you're thinking nice but still economical think Jetta or Civic! What ever decision you make BE HAPPY WITH IT!

I think you should get a car that is like your name :)

Shelby Cobra :) :) :)

Now that is a car!!!!!

No, Darren, I want to a car that I will own. Not a car that will own me. :)

You must admit thought, that is a CAR though :) Total F###y Magnet :) :)

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Originally posted by Darren Wilson:
You must admit thought, that is a CAR though :) Total F###y Magnet :) :)

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That I can't argue with. :)

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Originally posted by Darren Wilson:
I think you should get a car that is like your name :)

Shelby Cobra :) :) :)

Now that is a car!!!!!

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all I can say about that car is................................................ .................................................. .................................................. .............................. .................................................. .................................................. .................................................. .............................. .................................................. ..............................................Oh sorry I was daydreaming a bit ( wipe drool from chin)

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Originally posted by Darren Wilson:
I think you should get a car that is like your name :)

Shelby Cobra :) :) :)

Now that is a car!!!!!

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Well my Doctor and neighbor drives a real Shelby Cobra not the kit car!
427 over head cam, screamer insurance cost more that his wifes vett and her daughters Porsche combined,
But if you got an extra $200,000.00 laying around go for it. Doc Miller's selling his!
But Dr Parker my neighbor would never sell!
I have driven it it's quicker then my vett ever was!

Me I drive a 2001 PT Crusier, Limited Edition, I looks good, runs good, won't win any races, But the chicks love it! good on gas and the insurances is 1/2 of what my 911 was.

I like all 3 of those and the 3000GT VR-4 was one of the cars I wanted b/c 320HP is awesome. I would also consider an Acura Integra GSR. That's what I drive and LOVE it. It's got 170HP and the car only weighs about 2750 pounds. The handling is excellent and with just a few mods can run with V8s. Something to think about....... :D :D :D

I once told my ex-wife that if we ever won the lottery a REAL Cobra would be the car to get me...with all the trimmins in Blue with the BIG white racing stripe :D :D
Oh and I mentioned wanting a bathroom with a full library...but that's another story.

3000GT, dude!

3000 GT - Best of the 3 :D

Good Things
-1. FAST
-2. Awesome Looking
-3. Will smoke many cars on the road
-4. You wont lose at any stop lights
-5. Chick Magnet

Bad Things
-1. Worst gas mileage
-2. Highest Insurance
-3. Cop Magnet

_____


Jetta - 2nd Best

Good Things
-1. Pretty Fast
-2. Better than Hondas
-3. Not too bad looking

Bad Things
-1. Defined as a "cute" car
-2. High Insurance
-3. Too High Priced

____

Echo

Good Things
-1. NONE

Bad Things
-1. Ugly
-2. SLOW
-3. You'll lose EVERYTIME at a stop light
-4. You'll never win a race
-5. All around crappy
-6. Did I mention that they are slow & ugly?

________
________

Now may I add a couple vehicles to your lineup.

1. Pontiac Grand Prix GTP
2. Ford Mustang GT or Cobra
3. Chevy Camaro SS

You can get a used one of the 3 listed above for about the same as you'll find the others.

The 3 above also get about 25 mpg highway & never lose at stoplights. They are awesome looking & insurance isnt TOO high :D

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Originally posted by MadDog:
Cobra,
Here's what I would do:

1) Test drive each of the cars you're interested in. Don't limit yourself to the three cars you have listed - look at Honda's, Mazda's, etc... I drive a '99 Honda Civic (one of the safest cars in it's class), and get 30MPG around town, 40 Highway. It doesn't have that much power (106HP), but is VERY easy to drive...

2) Check with your insurance agent what it'd cost for insurance. The Mitsubishi, with more power, may cost a lot more than the other cars.

3) I wouldn't trade in my old car - dealers typically take the trade value off the sticker price of the new car. Selling your old car yourself may save you money.

That's my .02

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Excellent idea here but if you test drive that 3000GT it might make a wise decision harder to make!! lol At least get the insurance quotes before you do the test drive so you're outlook will be somewhat biased already. Looking at other rides is a great idea. Are you really stuck with just these three choices? Good luck bro and drive safely no matter what.

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Originally posted by Elbatcho:
Go with the Eclipse, it is a much better car, plus the Jetta is such a Yuppie mobile. I have a Dodge Avenger but I am thinking about getting a Mustang or a Firebird.

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I have an Avenger as well, a white 97. I really like and it's held up great. It's still in excellent condition. I'm fixing to trade it in on another one. I'm going to get the ES model this time with the V-6 and all options including that rear deck lid spoiler! Probably a red one.

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Originally posted by Darren Wilson:
I think you should get a car that is like your name :)

Shelby Cobra :) :) :)

Now that is a car!!!!!

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Or, you could use another kind of snake. Dodge Viper!!
I love that baby!

Why do Darren & Alien seem think I'm made out of money? :)

Seriously, the Shelby Cobra and the Dodge Viper are VERY nice cars, but a bit out of my price range. :)

This should stir something up, but all I can say is.... BUY AMERICAN. Spare me the lectures on where Japanese cars are made and that factories are in the US. I have pride in USA Products. Remember, THEY DONT BUY OUR RICE !

I'm Canadian, Jallentino, should I buy American too? ;)

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Originally posted by Sebring:
I have an Avenger as well, a white 97. I really like and it's held up great. It's still in excellent condition. I'm fixing to trade it in on another one. I'm going to get the ES model this time with the V-6 and all options including that rear deck lid spoiler! Probably a red one.

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I have the ES, the rims are a pain because they are so soft. They do run fast...I have a silver one and I love it to death.

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Originally posted by Jallentino:
This should stir something up, but all I can say is.... BUY AMERICAN. Spare me the lectures on where Japanese cars are made and that factories are in the US. I have pride in USA Products. Remember, THEY DONT BUY OUR RICE !

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There are no "American" Cars anymore. Cars such as the Dodge Avenger (I think) and the Dodge Neon share the Same engine that the '96-'99 Eclipse. The Ford Probe was made using the Mazda MX-6 chassis and engine. Cars such as the Mustang, Camaro, and Corvette, may be truly American, but I doubt it.

As far as US products? What TV do you own? Stereo? VCR? Computer? Do you buy American Computers? What about your Microwave?

Being patriotic is one thing, but when it comes to buying a car, or any other product that I want to have for years, buying specifically American or Japanese just doesn't factor into it. Quality does.

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Originally posted by lycia69:
There are no "American" Cars anymore. Cars such as the Dodge Avenger (I think) and the Dodge Neon share the Same engine that the '96-'99 Eclipse. The Ford Probe was made using the Mazda MX-6 chassis and engine. Cars such as the Mustang, Camaro,a nd Corvette, may be truly American, but I doubt it.

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Yes your right over %60 of my car is compatable with the eclipse, in fact my engine is the same engine in an eclipse. Although chevy and ford are american cars a lot of the parts are made in other countries such as Mexico. I don't think there is really such thing as a %100 pure american car. May be Satan but who wants to drive a recycled coke bottle.

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Originally posted by lycia69:


As far as US products? What TV do you own? Stereo? VCR? Computer? Do you buy American Computers? What about your Microwave?

Being patriotic is one thing, but when it comes to buying a car, or any other product that I want to have for years, buying specifically American or Japanese just doesn't factor into it. Quality does.

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Whenever I make a purchase, I make a conscious effort to buy things that are made in America. Of course there are times when I do not have that option, but I believe Americans are capable of making quality products, and I do my best to spend my dollars on those items. You can drive whatever you want, thats what is so great about this country, freedom of choice ! I personally could not live with myself driving around in a japanese car. It's a personal decision. I wasnt looking for an argument, however I was certain I would get one. Long may it wave my brotha.......

Cobra, I think, personally, that an invisible plane would be your best investment. You can test drive mine if you want to. That way, when you go to the dealership, you'll be well-armed when all the pushy invisible plane salesmen attack you.

If you'd rather not do the plane, though, I'd go with the Jetta or something similar. Hey, I'm a practical kinda chick who doesn't like to spend loads of cash on insurance. What other advice do you think a girl who drives a Honda will give you? And when my little '89 Chrysler product on the other side of the driveway dies, what you do you think I'm gonna buy?...another Honda. Maybe by then the electric/gas-hybrid Insight will be seasoned enough for me to get. THAT would be cool.

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Originally posted by Renee:
Cobra, I think, personally, that an invisible plane would be your best investment. You can test drive mine if you want to. That way, when you go to the dealership, you'll be well-armed when all the pushy invisible plane salesmen attack you. If you'd rather not do the plane, though...I'd go with the Jetta or something similar. Hey, I'm a practical kinda chick. What other advice do you think a girl who drives a Honda will give you? (except that Hondas are really cool, too, and maybe you shouldn't count them out.)

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I have an Invisible Fi Mclarren, an Invisible porche turbo 911 and Invisible Rolls Royce. Invisible really does make some fine products, all parts are made in the us and they are a lot cheeper than one may think. I picked up my Porche for $20,000 in North Philly. I have yet to find it but I hear the car alarm every time I press the panic button.

Thanks for everyone's input. Lycia is pretty much right about there being no "American" cars anymore. Pretty much all Dodge/Chrystler cars are going to have Mercedes engines in theme within the next 2 years, because of their recent merger. And the new 2 door Stratus Sedan is just an Eclipse with a Stratus body on it.

The invisible plane is definately not a good idea. I have a hard enough time finding my VISIBLE vehicle in most parking lots.

Eclipse it is!

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Originally posted by lycia69:
[B]Cars such as the Mustang, Camaro, and Corvette, may be truly American, but I doubt it B]

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Hey Camaros and Firebirds are made mainly in canada now!!!

Of those three I would also go with the 3000GT. You should also consider Grand Prix GT, or Grand Am GT1.

Volkswagen hands down...

I have an 1999 Audi A4 1.8T AWD. Audi makes VW and they are one nice car. My ex-girlfriend had a 2000 VW Jetta VR6, that thing was so fast and sporty, handled great, great responds when you feel the need to take a sharp corner doing 90MPH. That car was tight! I loved that car and it will be my next. Maybe next year.....

I've known several people who own Mitsubishi and have had nothin but problems.

Good luck pal. Post some pics of you new ride when you get it. :cool:

Oh also you might want to try to see what one has the best resale value