Hemi's next car...

[SVT666]

I would pick the 1996-1998 Mustang GT because it's probably the best balance between purchase price and mileage.

[nickdrinkwater]

Focus, by a mile.

[Cobra93]

1987 Thunderbird Turbo Coupe 

[Raza]

So, it's Focus vs. Mustang? 

I'd take an SVT Focus, but I don't know if you can swing one of those.  The ZX3 is a fine car, but considering how much you like power, I think the 4.6 is the best choice if you can't grab an SVT Focus.  I like the 1999-2000.

[SVT666]

My budget is $10,000.  People are still getting $15,000 for a 2002 SVT Focus.

[GoCougs]

Uh, you're contemplating cars as old as 20 years?

Civic it, and be done with it. Your psyche needs the rest I think.

[SVT666]

So, it's Focus vs. Mustang? 

...or if someone else has another suggestion I haven't thought of, I would like to hear it.

[FlatBlackCaddy]

I voted 88-93. I think its the best looking one of the bunch, the later mustangs just look
overdone to me, the fake scoops and rear quarter inlet are horrible IMO and the later rounder cars look too bubbly.

[FlatBlackCaddy]

...or if someone else has another suggestion I haven't thought of, I would like to hear it.

As long as its a focus or mustang...right.

[FoMoJo]

The 3rd generation body style has a no nonsense look about it...and the 5.0 is a great engine with lots of aftermarket.  The 4th generation seemed to have a melted look about it.  Of course the 5th generation is awesome but it's not on your list yet.

I'd go with the 3rd gen.

As for the ZX3, a good choice but an entirely different experience.

[SVT666]

As long as its a focus or mustang...right.

Not at all, it just has to be under $10K, reliable, fun, and good mileage (25 mpg or better).

[FlatBlackCaddy]

Not at all, it just has to be under $10K, reliable, fun, and good mileage (25 mpg or better).

My Pulsar GTiR suggestion fits.

[Ron From Regina]

I picked the 99-00 GT. I used to have on 02GT I bought new. I beat the hell out of it, and never had any problems. I would assume you'd be doing a PI swap if you picked up the previous gen, but I like the looks of the 99+ better.

[SVT666]

I picked the 99-00 GT. I used to have on 02GT I bought new. I beat the hell out of it, and never had any problems. I would assume you'd be doing a PI swap if you picked up the previous gen, but I like the looks of the 99+ better.

I prefer the looks of the '96-'98 and I would be doing the exhaust and springs right away with a PI swap to follow.

[Onslaught]

Out of the cars I have to pick from then it would be the 88-93 Mustang. I think the other Mustangs are rather ugly.

[Eye of the Tiger]

LX 5.0
I want one.

[Raza]

SVO!

[Eye of the Tiger]

GTR!

[CALL_911]

Could you find a VW GTI in that range?

[Raza]

Could you find a VW GTI in that range?

Easily.  As long as it's an MkIV.  It'll be faster than the Focus, but the Focus would likely be more reliable than an MkIV GTI.  I like them, but it might not be the best choice for him. 

[CALL_911]

Easily.  As long as it's an MkIV.  It'll be faster than the Focus, but the Focus would likely be more reliable than an MkIV GTI.  I like them, but it might not be the best choice for him. 

Damn. I would take one over a SVT Focus.

[Raza]

Damn. I would take one over a SVT Focus.

When Car and Driver did a comparison between the GTI, Civic Si hatch and SVT Focus 3 door, the Focus came out on top, and the GTI came in last.

[Onslaught]

I'll add the cars that I'd look at in that price range.

Toyota 1990-99 MR2
Nissan 240SX both generations.

[FlatBlackCaddy]

He just had a chev that blew to pieces on him, the last thing you would want after that is a VW.

[FlatBlackCaddy]

Since he's in canada he could actually get a 180SX(the japanese market car)
that has the 200HP 2.0 Turbo in it.

[sandertheshark]

I call for the 94-95 five-liter.

[Raghavan]

I call for the 94-95 five-liter.

+1

[TheIntrepid]

1999-2000.

[CMan]

Not at all, it just has to be under $10K, reliable, fun, and good mileage (25 mpg or better).

And a V8 sports car is going to get 25?

[Minpin]

Buy the newest car you can. With your run of bad luck maybe you should just get a bus ticket.