This is for a present for about in-law. I'm looking for a 2-seater or 2+2 that is somewhat special and fun to drive (I have a reputation to maintain ) but it doesn't have to be crazy fast like our cars. My budget for this present is about $40k - $50k. I don't know much about cars in that segment but I thought some of you could provide some useful input as usual! I have browsed a few sites already...what about a Miata or a Nissan 370Z? Are they worth to be road tested? What else should I consider? Another option could be something like a pre-owned Porsche but I would prefer to avoid a high maintenance burden for the person who will receive the present. What do you think?

 

nice gift!

how about a SLK? they're small, zippy and look good too

 

I am not sure I understand what you mean by about in-law. Anyway I do not think it would be really special to buy a pre owned vehicle so I think new would be much nicer.
An Audi TT comes to mind. I just bought one for the better half and it looks really good and the 2.0T engine is awesome and it is pretty quick.
There are not too many on the road and they look like a small R8.
Other american options are a new camaro, charger or even a vette (since the new one is out, I am sure the 2013 will go for a deep discount).
Good luck

 

Spend a little more and spring for a C7. No competition.

You're the best son in law(?) ever btw.

 

How about a GTR?

 

SLK350 in 6 speed.

 

About in-law? Soon to be in-law? Do you have any sisters so I can marry into the family?

 

Thanks guys. You really made me laugh ... I meant to type "an in-law" and my Playbook changed it into "about in-law". This is actually for my mother in law who is turning 70 this summer. She has always dreamed of a sport car. And all her daughters are married unfortunately.

She currently drives an Honda Civic. I don't want to be too far up there. Both the SLK and the Audi TT are great ideas but will end up closer to $60k with Canadian taxes. This is why I was trying to find something a bit less expensive in the Japanese segment. The 370Z looks sexy but I have no clue how it drives. Maybe there is something to explore in the American lineup.

Keep shooting ideas! Thanks again.

 

SO your looking to buy something new or used? I think that will help narrow it down.. Good think about new is you get a warranty (obviously), so its less worry for your mother in law.

 

If I may offer my opinion,

The 370Z is a decent car, but a bit rough driving. You feel the rev's of that 3.7L V-6, which is a good or bad thing depending on the way you look at it. Also, it's not the most airy interior. But it does GO, and it does have a distinct sound with an aftermarket exhaust. It is a fun experience, but I'm not 70.

The Camaro is a good car, and my choice of 2-door American Muscle (majority of the American car's my family has owned have been GM's), however there is the issue of the visibility. That is a serious deal breaker for a lot of people I know. Plus, it does guzzle fuel at an alarming rate compared to a Civic.

After a quick look at the Mazda Canada price list, you can get a loaded Miata in the low 40's (list). Great car, shouldn't break on you, and it is as fun as the legend surrounding it suggests. Plus at that price you can get the GT trim that makes it relatively a very luxurious place to be in. Compact size and 4 cylinders so it wouldn't be a massive change from her Civic, and she'll still get decent fuel economy. It isn't as fast as the other cars, obviously. But, would she be as impressed if you buy her a 4 cylinder Miata? It should be said. However, I think it would be the car I would buy if I were in your position.

 

If she is turning 70, I will assume the car you are buying her is not her DD and will be a fun car for the week end. If that is the case, I am not sure a small car like the miata fits the bill neither a camaro or 370Z.
She needs something that is still easy to get in and out. I know it would have to be used but how about a CLK or an A5?

 

I guess Miata sounds pretty good in this case. However, I wouldn't rule out 370Z.

 

How about a Lotus?
http://www.lotuscars.com/

 

Thanks a lot for all your suggestions. Feels like a Miata may do the trick (the version with the hard top) although I personally prefer the look of the 370Z...agree that it may be too rough for her though. I guess I will have to road test them.

Love the idea of the Lotus! I didn't think about this one. Can't find a pricing on their website. I'll check around but I guess it will be above my budget...too cute to be below $50k I guess.

What's a C7? Did you mean a Volvo C70?

 

I think he mean a c7 vette

 

Here is a starting point; http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Lotus...item2c6bc68008

 

maybe convertible E350? or for 40-50 maybe a 335 or some form of 3 series

 

Many thanks for the info but more importantly, for the idea. I have read a number of reviews since your last post. This Lotus feels like a car designed more for me than my mother in law... but if I start down that path, I know what will happen...I'll end up with buying 2 cars over the next few months...

 

another cool car for that price could be an A4 convertible, or an A5 cab both great looking cars!