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Auto Talk => General Automotive => Topic started by: Atomic on June 03, 2012, 07:21:52 PM

Poll
Question: When will you purchase, lease, acquire your next vehicle?
Option 1: This summer
Option 2: Within the next few months
Option 3: Next year
Option 4: Already did or about to within days or weeks
Option 5: Hanging on to what I currently drive for a long while
Option 6: Not sure
Option 7: Never
Option 8: Through an estate, time unknown
Option 9: When gifted
Option 10: There is nothing out there that I like so wanting for the right vehicle
Option 11: Other (Specify)
Title: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Atomic on June 03, 2012, 07:21:52 PM
What would you like? Is it in reach?

Me? I ordered my Volvo as most are aware.

It is my dream car. In reach? Well, I will struggle some, but have no regrets.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Atomic on June 03, 2012, 07:25:53 PM
I like these 'spin polls and especially enjoy learning what all of my fellow CarSpinners' drive, what you would like to drive and/or plan to drive  ;) ...
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Speed_Racer on June 03, 2012, 07:28:59 PM
I'd like to avoid a car payment for as long as possible. I'd rather spend $300+ a month something other than a payment for the time being. Maybe travel, or other memory-making experiences.

Can't wait to see pics of your Volvo though, tom!
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: sportyaccordy on June 03, 2012, 07:32:58 PM
Long trips on the bike are agony for wifey. Wish I had more space. Wanna get a VN500 for touring and get silly with the 650.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Atomic on June 03, 2012, 08:22:02 PM
Quote from: Speed_Racer on June 03, 2012, 07:28:59 PM
I'd like to avoid a car payment for as long as possible. I'd rather spend $300+ a month something other than a payment for the time being. Maybe travel, or other memory-making experiences.

Can't wait to see pics of your Volvo though, tom!

Thanks, buddy. I appreciate that. My dad, just prior to death had money transferred in an account reserved for the safest Volvo/other car of my choosing. Not a spoiled son, as I worked hard and earned what I am paying for the XC60 T6 but as he would do if still with us, I am helping my sweet niece and awesome nephew (incredible grandkids) get through college by paying part of their tuition.

I am gifting my dad's Accord EX to my niece when I take delivery of my new wheels. In time, my nephew (younger) will get the Civic EX I bought my mom post-MVA. I took over the Accord when my dad died in October 2011. With my mother's newfound dementia, we see to it that anyone but her does the driving.

My substantial injuries made his last year with us signicantly more stressful and painful as any great father would.

Your thinking makes excellent sense by not having high car payment or any in favor of doing some very exciting things. I, too, love to travel and hope to do more when things settle a bit here. I will definitely post car pics, as inexperienced as I am. I will review clear directions Greg (Catman) kindly laid out for me. With the head injury, I must relearn many things. So frustrating, but feel blessed doing better each day.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: SVT666 on June 03, 2012, 08:30:46 PM
We will be buying in the next few months.  As early as 2 weeks from now or as late as October.  We have driven a 2008 BMW 328i, 2012 Kia Optima, 2012 Nissan Altima, 2008 Cadillac CTS, and a 2011 Mustang GT convertible.  I have driven a 2009 Infiniti G37x , but my wife still needs to.  I am fairly certain that she won't even want to wait to see the 2013 Ford Fusion after she drives the Infiniti.  It's most likely what we will be getting. 
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: MrH on June 03, 2012, 08:36:02 PM
Likely ordering a BRZ in the next few weeks.  Take delivery towards the end of the summer, then will be selling the Miata.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: J86 on June 03, 2012, 08:39:48 PM
If all goes perfectly, I'll sell mine by years end and be carless for the first time since I learned to drive!
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: CALL_911 on June 03, 2012, 08:42:11 PM
I'll be keeping the GTI until the wheels fall off.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: hotrodalex on June 03, 2012, 08:46:15 PM
Either nothing will change, or there will be multiple changes coming at the end of summer. Saturn might get sold and my brother might get a new car. That or he might take the BMW and my dad will get something different. Or, I could take the BMW, my brother gets a new car, and my dad drives the El Camino. There's quite a few options and it'll have to get figured out soon.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Vinsanity on June 03, 2012, 08:55:40 PM
The Caddy's definitely sticking around until at least the last payment is made ~Jan.2014, and ideally until my student loans are paid off in 2017. By then, it will be 13 years old, and 10 years under my possession. Which should be just in time for me to buy a midlife crisis car :lol:
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: 280Z Turbo on June 03, 2012, 08:59:36 PM
Focus until it cracks in half from rust, or I just get too sick of it.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: 2o6 on June 03, 2012, 09:04:00 PM
When I pay off the Yaris, I'll likely get something else.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: 93JC on June 03, 2012, 09:18:41 PM
Keeping the Mazda for the foreseeable future, which is why I bought it. Unless it starts falling apart I'll keep it indefinitely. I'm not really sure where life's headed so I thought it prudent to buy a car that could do a little of everything, which is what the Mazda can do.

I'll probably supplement the car with something else when the need arises. Depending on my living accommodations (i.e. if I buy a new house) I could see myself buying a beater pickup truck for trips to the dump and carting stuff home from Home Depot and the like.

EDIT: Speaking of paying off, I only have two more payments left. :rockon:
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: AutobahnSHO on June 03, 2012, 10:16:26 PM
Plan on buying a 94 Miata before the end of the month- if owner's son doesn't want it.

Either way, plan on keeping the Subie until it absolutely falls apart, it needs to be seeing a mechanic this summer so it'll last a year or two more... :(
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: MrH on June 03, 2012, 10:19:04 PM
Quote from: 93JC on June 03, 2012, 09:18:41 PM
Keeping the Mazda for the foreseeable future, which is why I bought it. Unless it starts falling apart I'll keep it indefinitely. I'm not really sure where life's headed so I thought it prudent to buy a car that could a little of everything, which is what the Mazda can do.

I'll probably supplement the car with something else when the need arises. Depending on my living accommodations (i.e. if I buy a new house) I could see myself buying a beater pickup truck for trips to the dump and carting stuff home from Home Depot and the like.

EDIT: Speaking of paying off, I only have two more payments left. :rockon:

:rockon: You back to work now?
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Gotta-Qik-C7 on June 03, 2012, 10:42:16 PM
I'm staying with the G8 till I can pick up a C7 Vette.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: 93JC on June 03, 2012, 10:50:43 PM
Quote from: MrH on June 03, 2012, 10:19:04 PM
:rockon: You back to work now?

Yeah, started working again at the end of April. It's the same sort of crap I was doing before but I'm making a lot more money and the workplace is a lot more chill. A couple weeks ago the boss came by and asked how I was liking it and I said something to the effect of "I feel like I should be doing better."

He retorted, "I think you're doing GREAT! I can just give you something to do, leave you alone and you get it done!"

Never once got a reaction like that at the old job. :lol: So far everybody seems impressed, I think because I'm a little more versatile than most. Typically everybody there works in teams where there are designers who design, technicians who draft and contract administrators who deal with the project during construction. On the other hand I can carry (and have dozens of times in the past) a job from design development to detailed design to tender and all the way through construction. And to top it off I can draft it myself.

Unfortunately I live in a city where the average home price is creeping towards $500,000, so home ownership is a little ways off... If I lived where you live I'd probably own a house free and clear by now, and I'm still in my mid-20s.


EDIT: Thing I like about the new job most? I drive to work. No more fucking around on public transit. I'm going through about twice as much gas as I used to and I pay about as much in parking as I did for a monthly bus pass but my quality of life is immensely higher just from not having to wait around to catch some godforsaken bus that was never on time, took between 15 and 90 minutes to get me home, and sometimes didn't show up at all.

Oh and the dress code is preposterously casual. I think I've seen the guy next to me wear something other than blue jeans once, maybe twice, in the time I've been there.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Rupert on June 03, 2012, 11:46:35 PM
Fuck if I know. Maybe a Miata sometime next year, if the Porsche stops draining my wallet. :huh:
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: veeman on June 04, 2012, 01:37:18 AM
2009 buick enclave  with 55,000 miles.  Will have paid it off in 2 more years.  Hopefully will convince wife to keep car for 4 more years which at this rate would have around 130,000 miles.  Car has been completely worry free.  If big problems occur with powertrain or recurrent problems occur with air conditioning (some people have had recurrent AC problems with enclaves), I'll unload it but otherwise plan on keeping it.  Love this car.

2007 hyundai sonata V6 with 69,000 miles.  Car has been completely worry free.  Will keep it until a powertrain problem develops after warranty expires and the warranty should cover for 10 years/100,000 miles.  Car is ponderous but smooth and quiet.

Current dream car:  Nissan GT-R. 

Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: mzziaz on June 04, 2012, 04:29:49 AM
Recently got a low mileage fat ass Megane and plan to keep both that one and the Laguna for 2 -4 years. A major toll road will be affecting my wife's commute in about 3 years, so we might get an EV ?r that point, since they are toll exempt atm.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: sportyaccordy on June 04, 2012, 08:11:29 AM
Quote from: CALL_911 on June 03, 2012, 08:42:11 PM
I'll be keeping the GTI until the wheels fall off.
Its a good car. VW has come a long way. My buddy just got one and he loves it.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: cawimmer430 on June 04, 2012, 10:15:32 AM
One day, one day.  :praise:

(http://www.cochesneon.es/Fotos/citroen-c5-tourer-sport-hdi-112-cv-diesel-5p.jpg)
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Northlands on June 04, 2012, 11:24:49 AM
(http://file.kelleybluebookimages.com/kbb//vehicleimage/evoxseo/extspp/m/7630/2012-hyundai-elantra%20touring-360spinframe_7630_032_580x435.png)

Possibly one of these in the next few months. New. We're in the process of replacing two 11 year old cars. The first being the Accent.

  So far the Elantra Touring fits the bill for looking for a bit more room, have four doors and some storage space in the trunk area, and still have relatively decent fuel consumption.

  In a year or so we'll be replacing the Civic. I have no idea with what. Another four door ...er..something.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Atomic on June 05, 2012, 07:25:29 PM
Quote from: SVT666 on June 03, 2012, 08:30:46 PM
We will be buying in the next few months.  As early as 2 weeks from now or as late as October.  We have driven a 2008 BMW 328i, 2012 Kia Optima, 2012 Nissan Altima, 2008 Cadillac CTS, and a 2011 Mustang GT convertible.  I have driven a 2009 Infiniti G37x , but my wife still needs to.  I am fairly certain that she won't even want to wait to see the 2013 Ford Fusion after she drives the Infiniti.  It's most likely what we will be getting.  

It sounds like there is a specific '09 G37x you have in mind, eh? It is nice when you know who owned it. A friend just bought a used Volvo XC90 (not certain of the year) after accompanying me on test drives of a few different new 2012 Volvo's. She never mentioned her interest in even buying a new vehicle until I saw it in her driveway. Unfortunately for her, this very spontaneous purchase fueled by my extensive research and excitement we get looking at vehicles. Well, my talk of getting a 2013 XC60 T6 led her to acquire the first Volvo "XC" she spotted. She merely merely drove past this lot of a fly-by-night corner store dealer and pluncked down a deposit. The older car has been nothing but a headache. After the trouble had begun she researched this particular Volvo and its long history of accidents, multiple owners, being in a flood, etc.

Obviously, SVT666, you are highly knowledgable about cars and how to spot a good one from a lemon. In conducting my searches and just for the fun of it, I go to cars.com -- check it out if you are unfamiliar with this site... Within an instant you will have a list a mile's long depending on the parameters you select. I will be curious to here what your wife's opinion is of the Infiniti and what you both decide on. Good luck and keep us informed. I checked out the Infiniti G37 and an EX and was highly impressed with each. The quality of these two were amazing.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: CJ on June 05, 2012, 07:40:43 PM
Thinking about buying an XC90 or an S60 T5M in the next two years. 
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Atomic on June 05, 2012, 08:15:24 PM
Quote from: CJ on June 05, 2012, 07:40:43 PM
Thinking about buying an XC90 or an S60 T5M in the next two years. 

Hey, guy. The S60 T5 (not just the T6) will be available in AWD for the 2013 model year. Cannot remember if we chatted about this. The price will obviously be less expensive than that of the Turbo 6. Do you prefer/need AWD? Curious as to why the LARGE XC90. Being so young and single it seems more like a vehicle suited for a family. Just wondering, then again I know a few young men driving an older Ford Explorer, Chevy Tahoe and even a Ford Expedition. AWD is highly desired in my region of NYS. The XC90 is a really nice vehicle of course  :tounge: .
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: CJ on June 05, 2012, 08:16:55 PM
Quote from: Atomic on June 05, 2012, 08:15:24 PM
Hey, guy. The S60 T5 (not just the T6) will be available in AWD for the 2013 model year. Cannot remember if we chatted about this. The price will obviously be less expensive than that of the Turbo 6. Do you prefer/need AWD? Curious as to why the LARGE XC90. Being so young and single it seems more like a vehicle suited for a family. Just wondering, then again I know a few young men driving an older Ford Explorer, Chevy Tahoe and even a Ford Expedition. AWD is highly desired in my region of NYS. The XC90 is a really nice vehicle of course  :tounge: .

Oh, we're talking a 5-10+ year old S60 or a 2004-2006 XC90 2.5T.  Nothing new.  I can't afford a new car any time soon.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: giant_mtb on June 05, 2012, 08:56:04 PM
I'll have the A4 for quite a while, I suspect.  At least until I can afford to get something else if I desire...which will be a solid number of years, I suspect, since I've got another couple years left of school and such.  My next vehicle is unknown, but perhaps a used S4, or a new A4, or perhaps a 1-series...hard to say when it'll be at least 3-5 years before I switch out.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Onslaught on June 05, 2012, 09:10:40 PM
My cars only 3 years old. I won't need one for a very long time unless something bad happens.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Raza on June 05, 2012, 09:30:57 PM
Everyone knows my plan.  This summer is plan A.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Payman on June 05, 2012, 09:53:49 PM
Quote from: Northlands on June 04, 2012, 11:24:49 AM
(http://file.kelleybluebookimages.com/kbb//vehicleimage/evoxseo/extspp/m/7630/2012-hyundai-elantra%20touring-360spinframe_7630_032_580x435.png)

Possibly one of these in the next few months. New. We're in the process of replacing two 11 year old cars. The first being the Accent.

  So far the Elantra Touring fits the bill for looking for a bit more room, have four doors and some storage space in the trunk area, and still have relatively decent fuel consumption.

  In a year or so we'll be replacing the Civic. I have no idea with what. Another four door ...er..something.

My father just traded his '06 Civic on an Elantra Touring last week, on my recommendation. Great car.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Payman on June 05, 2012, 09:55:10 PM
Within the year, house, then daddy's car.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: nickdrinkwater on June 06, 2012, 04:20:36 AM
Quote from: Atomic on June 03, 2012, 08:22:02 PM
Thanks, buddy. I appreciate that. My dad, just prior to death had money transferred in an account reserved for the safest Volvo/other car of my choosing. Not a spoiled son, as I worked hard and earned what I am paying for the XC60 T6 but as he would do if still with us, I am helping my sweet niece and awesome nephew (incredible grandkids) get through college by paying part of their tuition.

I am gifting my dad's Accord EX to my niece when I take delivery of my new wheels. In time, my nephew (younger) will get the Civic EX I bought my mom post-MVA. I took over the Accord when my dad died in October 2011. With my mother's newfound dementia, we see to it that anyone but her does the driving.

My substantial injuries made his last year with us signicantly more stressful and painful as any great father would.

Your thinking makes excellent sense by not having high car payment or any in favor of doing some very exciting things. I, too, love to travel and hope to do more when things settle a bit here. I will definitely post car pics, as inexperienced as I am. I will review clear directions Greg (Catman) kindly laid out for me. With the head injury, I must relearn many things. So frustrating, but feel blessed doing better each day.

Tom, from what it sounds like you have planned this out pretty well, more so considering your injury.  Sounds like your dad would be proud.  When do you get the Volvo?

As for me, you guys have seen my other thread.  Considering trading for something newer, due to boredom and possibly looming bills, but we'll see.  If I do change I am now window-shopping the Seat Leons:

http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201207450547047/
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201211457259063/

We'll see
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: nickdrinkwater on June 06, 2012, 04:22:30 AM
Quote from: SVT666 on June 03, 2012, 08:30:46 PM
We will be buying in the next few months.  As early as 2 weeks from now or as late as October.  We have driven a 2008 BMW 328i, 2012 Kia Optima, 2012 Nissan Altima, 2008 Cadillac CTS, and a 2011 Mustang GT convertible.  I have driven a 2009 Infiniti G37x , but my wife still needs to.  I am fairly certain that she won't even want to wait to see the 2013 Ford Fusion after she drives the Infiniti.  It's most likely what we will be getting. 

Had a trip in a 3-Series M Sport the other day.  I was expecting a nicer interior given how much they go for.  Didn't feel any better than a "lower" brand.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Atomic on June 06, 2012, 06:27:00 AM
Quote from: CJ on June 05, 2012, 08:16:55 PM
Oh, we're talking a 5-10+ year old S60 or a 2004-2006 XC90 2.5T.  Nothing new.  I can't afford a new car any time soon.

Vintage Volvo's are awesome. Proven, durable... Hope my new one is as good  :lol:
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: CJ on June 06, 2012, 07:29:08 AM
Quote from: Atomic on June 06, 2012, 06:27:00 AM
Vintage Volvo's are awesome. Proven, durable... Hope my new one is as good  :lol:


Not quite sure I'd call those vintage just yet. :lol: My 940 is getting there, as the odometer creeps closer to 200,000 every day.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: SVT666 on June 06, 2012, 10:20:40 AM
Quote from: nickdrinkwater on June 06, 2012, 04:22:30 AM
Had a trip in a 3-Series M Sport the other day.  I was expecting a nicer interior given how much they go for.  Didn't feel any better than a "lower" brand.
I have now driven three different 3 series in the last 6 weeks.  All three were 2008s.  They are amazing drives.  I loved driving them and I totally understand why they win all the comparisons due to driving dynamics alone.  I was even more amazed at how tight and how "brand new" the cars still felt.  They are rock solid and feel like they were milled out of a solid block of steel.  I am very impressed with how well they hold up over time.  What I'm not impressed with, is that for the same money, I can get a bigger G37 with 130 more horsepower, NAV, heated leather seats, and every other option you can think of.  The 328i comes with leatherette, a basic stereo, no NAV, and what is basically a pretty spartan interior.  The one thing that really bothered me was the throttle tip-in on the BMW.  You have to press the gas pedal in quite far before there is any power whatsoever.  The G37 handles just as well, almost feels as solid, uses nicer materials, more options, bigger trunk and back seat, and has better programming in the automatic transmission.  The BMW tranny has amazing response times to manual input whereas the G37 takes forever to respond, but it doesn't hold gears when driving aggressively like the G37 does.

The BMW gets the nod for driving dynamics, refinement, and that solid feel.  But the G37 nearly matches it in two categories (misses the mark in refinement) and then trumps it in content and space.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Northlands on June 06, 2012, 07:51:52 PM
Quote from: Rockraven on June 05, 2012, 09:53:49 PM
My father just traded his '06 Civic on an Elantra Touring last week, on my recommendation. Great car.

I was surprised how well this thing handled itself in some turns. I just need something to haul the baby and her stroller + junk around in, and I enjoyed driving it much more than my other cars. Ain't bad for a spacious commuter-mobile. If I didn't have so many miles to cover, I'd just get this for my wife to drive around in and find a used Dodge Magnum for myself ( partly for work ), but I don't want to be filling up every 4 days.  :lol:
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: r0tor on June 06, 2012, 08:16:16 PM
I wouldn't mind upgrading from the RX8 as its getting old... But nobody makes a decent 4 real seat sports coupe that's affordable.

Probably will keep the Jeep until the wheels fall off.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: 280Z Turbo on June 06, 2012, 08:17:53 PM
Quote from: r0tor on June 06, 2012, 08:16:16 PM
I wouldn't mind upgrading from the RX8 as its getting old... But nobody makes a decent 4 real seat sports coupe that's affordable.

Probably will keep the Jeep until the wheels fall off.

BRIZ, FRIS?
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: SVT666 on June 06, 2012, 09:12:23 PM
He said 4 real seats.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: TurboDan on June 07, 2012, 12:37:09 AM
Quote from: Speed_Racer on June 03, 2012, 07:28:59 PM
I'd like to avoid a car payment for as long as possible. I'd rather spend $300+ a month something other than a payment for the time being. Maybe travel, or other memory-making experiences.

I'm a masochist. As soon as the LR2 is paid off, I'm going for a two seater. Will then have an SUV to beat up on the beach and in the woods, and a roadster for fun! ETA = 2 years from now, summer of '14.  :lol:

Quote
Can't wait to see pics of your Volvo though, tom!

Same here!!!  :ohyeah:
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Atomic on June 07, 2012, 04:40:54 PM
Quote from: TurboDan on June 07, 2012, 12:37:09 AM
I'm a masochist. As soon as the LR2 is paid off, I'm going for a two seater. Will then have an SUV to beat up on the beach and in the woods, and a roadster for fun! ETA = 2 years from now, summer of '14.  :lol:

Same here!!!  :ohyeah:

That would be fun!

I wish I could join the club and have two vehicles, but unless I take over my mother's 2010 Civic EX sedan (dementia prevents her from driving) it will be the XC60 for life... Figuratively and maybe literally* :huh: ! Having the Civic in her garage gives her great comfort and a feeling of security with no temptation to drive. Thankfully! We chauffeur her around in her car... Works out great...

*Volvo's tag line: "Volvo for Life"
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Morris Minor on June 08, 2012, 07:35:04 AM
I want to replace my 10-year-old Pilot. I like the carrying capacity, an essential-if-rarely-used trait, but I don't like the bulk.  I want something smaller and more fun to drive, but it must be able to handle bags of mulch and golf clubs when needed.

So I'm wondering if I should be looking at a station wagon, rare as hens teeth in the USA, but something like an Audi A4 Avant might do the trick.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: sportyaccordy on June 08, 2012, 09:04:36 AM
SVT what about the 335
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: SVT666 on June 08, 2012, 10:04:31 AM
Very pricey.  We are going to drive a pair of G37 sedans tomorrow.  Different colours, years, mileage, etc.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: GoCougs on June 08, 2012, 12:42:48 PM
Well, less than three month's of ownership for the G37 and I'm finding myself perusing Autotrader.com. The car's fine, but meh, I got bored quick. Performance is good but more is better. Thing is there's nothing I would/could replace it with and I'm not into having more than one car...
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: CJ on June 08, 2012, 12:46:58 PM
Quote from: GoCougs on June 08, 2012, 12:42:48 PM
Well, less than three month's of ownership for the G37 and I'm finding myself perusing Autotrader.com. The car's fine, but meh, I got bored quick. Performance is good but more is better. Thing is there's nothing I would/could replace it with and I'm not into having more than one car...

What would you even consider purchasing?  An A4? 
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: SVT666 on June 08, 2012, 12:47:14 PM
Wow, that was quick.  Why the change of heart?  It's got way more performance than the Accord, so why are you so bored with it already?
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Rich on June 08, 2012, 01:02:19 PM
Quote from: GoCougs on June 08, 2012, 12:42:48 PM
and I'm not into having more than one car...

Why not?  IMO it's the way to roll.  Loved it.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Eye of the Tiger on June 08, 2012, 01:03:27 PM
Quote from: SVT666 on June 08, 2012, 12:47:14 PM
Wow, that was quick.  Why the change of heart?  It's got way more performance than the Accord, so why are you so bored with it already?

Actually, Camcords are some of the best performing cars on the planet. The G37 simply cannot fill such large shoes.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Morris Minor on June 08, 2012, 01:30:13 PM
Quote from: GoCougs on June 08, 2012, 12:42:48 PM
Well, less than three month's of ownership for the G37 and I'm finding myself perusing Autotrader.com. The car's fine, but meh, I got bored quick. Performance is good but more is better. Thing is there's nothing I would/could replace it with and I'm not into having more than one car...

Get one of these. They are quite superb.
(http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/ff/1990-Chevrolet-Lumina.jpg/800px-1990-Chevrolet-Lumina.jpg)


Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Atomic on June 08, 2012, 03:13:12 PM
Quote from: Morris Minor on June 08, 2012, 07:35:04 AM
I want to replace my 10-year-old Pilot. I like the carrying capacity, an essential-if-rarely-used trait, but I don't like the bulk.  I want something smaller and more fun to drive, but it must be able to handle bags of mulch and golf clubs when needed.

So I'm wondering if I should be looking at a station wagon, rare as hens teeth in the USA, but something like an Audi A4 Avant might do the trick.

The 2013 Audi Allroad is out and very handsome. Did not price on yet. Even though I already a new vehicle, it's cool building them to your specifications on each company's website. Will see if Audi's site has been updated. Both Audi and Volvo have slow in doing so, as 2013 are being produced... Or will be shortly.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: GoCougs on June 08, 2012, 03:44:32 PM
The car's fine, just bored. There's really no replacement I can think of save for the non-existent G37x w/MT and ~50 more hp.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: MrH on June 08, 2012, 04:04:21 PM
Just sell it and get an S4 that you've always wanted. I know you got the cash.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: CJ on June 08, 2012, 04:12:02 PM
Quote from: MrH on June 08, 2012, 04:04:21 PM
Just sell it and get an S4 that you've always wanted. I know you got the cash.


That. Do it. They have a warranty for a reason, and I think you'd have a enjoy it considerably more than an Infiniti.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: shp4man on June 08, 2012, 05:50:52 PM
I plan on keeping the Dodge pickup for a while as it's only got 65,000 miles on it. I'm kind of missing having a vintage car around, though. If I could find a less popular model for cheaper that would be great. You know, like a '56 Crown Victoria would be upwards of 20,000 bucks. But as an example, a really clean '56 ford two door or four door sedan with a six and a three speed would be just as nice- to me.

'56 Vic:
(http://static.ddmcdn.com/gif/1956_crown_victoria.jpg)

'56 Ford Tudor:
(http://s3.racingjunk.com/ui/9/40/25417409-932-1956-Ford-Mainline-2-door-Sedan.jpg)

The green car could be had for under $5000 on a good day.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: GoCougs on June 08, 2012, 09:27:03 PM
Quote from: MrH on June 08, 2012, 04:04:21 PM
Just sell it and get an S4 that you've always wanted. I know you got the cash.

Quote from: CJ on June 08, 2012, 04:12:02 PM
That. Do it. They have a warranty for a reason, and I think you'd have a enjoy it considerably more than an Infiniti.

If the S4 were Japanese it'd probably be sitting in my driveway. I wanted to trust it but ultimately couldn't. The S4 warranty is only 48 mos./50k - how I'd drive that'd be up in less than 3 years, and if I bought it slightly used (which I'd probably do) it'd be less than 2 years. I plan on cycling through cars faster from here on out but not every ~2 years though...
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: TurboDan on June 08, 2012, 09:36:02 PM
Quote from: GoCougs on June 08, 2012, 09:27:03 PM
If the S4 were Japanese it'd probably be sitting in my driveway. I wanted to trust it but ultimately couldn't. The S4 warranty is only 48 mos./50k - how I'd drive that'd be up in less than 3 years, and if I bought it slightly used (which I'd probably do) it'd be less than 2 years. I plan on cycling through cars faster from here on out but not every ~2 years though...

If you really want it that badly, what's the big deal if some part breaks at some point? So you spend a few hundred on a repair every so often - is it not worth it for years of driving a car you really want to drive? The S4 is not a particularly unreliable car anyway, I don't think.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: GoCougs on June 08, 2012, 11:44:18 PM
Quote from: TurboDan on June 08, 2012, 09:36:02 PM
If you really want it that badly, what's the big deal if some part breaks at some point? So you spend a few hundred on a repair every so often - is it not worth it for years of driving a car you really want to drive? The S4 is not a particularly unreliable car anyway, I don't think.

There's rarely spending a "few hundred" on any repair these days. Most subsystems are so complicated; from tranny, to heads, to short block, to HVAC, to even heated/cooled/power seats; usually the only proper repair is to replace the entire subsystem. With a supercharger, AWD, loads of electronics (and all of it German), no one will ever convince me that on average the S4 will be expensive and a hassle to own after ~50k. They only way I'd own one at this point is if I were to be in and out in 3 yrs/40k, and I'm not quite there yet.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: 68_427 on June 09, 2012, 01:19:22 AM
Chevy SS or ATS 3.6
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Atomic on June 09, 2012, 06:00:59 AM
Some of the annoying problems I hear often are often associated with a couple of Ford products. All under warrantee and not crippling, but a big P.I.T.A. -- The new Ford Explorer and SHO (pre-2013) with the MYFORD system and other electronics. FMC claims they simplified the system and corrected the "breakdowns" that dealership service department personnel had trouble repairing. I hope Cadillac experiences success with the new Caddy's (XTS) funcky dashboard controls. Not meaning to put down any of these vehicles, just pointing out that non-European companies have their struggles, too.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: ChrisV on June 09, 2012, 09:54:19 AM
There's a possibility of replacing my E38 with a newer E38 Sport, but other than that, no plans as I've only had the Mustang for a year, and the MINI since last September.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: hotrodalex on June 09, 2012, 10:45:08 AM
Quote from: ChrisV on June 09, 2012, 09:54:19 AM
There's a possibility of replacing my E38 with a newer E38 Sport, but other than that, no plans as I've only had the Mustang for a year, and the MINI since last September.

Did you get a new engine for the E38 or is it still out of commission?
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: hotrodalex on June 09, 2012, 10:52:38 AM
My dad has the option to buy an early 60's Beetle from a coworker's family. The engine needs to be rebuilt, but that's not too hard with those cars. It's just built up too much right now and doesn't run well. A little detuning and it would probably make a nice driver.

Dunno if he'll go for it, though. He was going to buy it, but then heard about the engine and decided against it. However, I think he changed his mind again. I think he did some research and found out he could sell most of the current parts that he doesn't want and it would pay for all the things that need to be fixed. Plus, he just got a birthday check from my grandma and said "that'll pay for a Beetle". :lol:
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Colin on June 09, 2012, 11:00:05 AM
Quote from: TurboDan on June 08, 2012, 09:36:02 PM
If you really want it that badly, what's the big deal if some part breaks at some point? So you spend a few hundred on a repair every so often - is it not worth it for years of driving a car you really want to drive? The S4 is not a particularly unreliable car anyway, I don't think.
So, I just handed back my S6. It was 4 years old and had done just a few miles short of 90,000 in that time. In 4 years, it needed a service every 19,000 miles (so that was three of them, and a fourth one imminent) a set of tyres lasted 35,000, so 2 sets of those, and the windscreen cracked and had to be replaced. That was it. Nothing else at all.

The S4 that preceded it, in which I did 76,000 miles in 3 years was not quite so problem free, as it had 3 ignition coils go, and a stone punctured the radiator so that had to be replaced. It also suffered a cracked windscreen. I think tyres lasted around 30,000 miles on that car, too.

I agree that if something complex breaks, the cost of fixing it even on a mainstream car is now very non-trivial, but as long as a car is not abused, you would be fairly unlucky to get stung for repair after repair. If you're really that worried, can you not buy an extended warranty? They're not cheap, but a friend of mine who got a second hand Merc E500 (W211) and suffered a gearbox problem within a couple of weeks of getting the car will tell you that it was the best extra he could have bought to go with the car.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: TurboDan on June 09, 2012, 12:18:48 PM
Quote from: GoCougs on June 08, 2012, 11:44:18 PM
There's rarely spending a "few hundred" on any repair these days. Most subsystems are so complicated; from tranny, to heads, to short block, to HVAC, to even heated/cooled/power seats; usually the only proper repair is to replace the entire subsystem. With a supercharger, AWD, loads of electronics (and all of it German), no one will ever convince me that on average the S4 will be expensive and a hassle to own after ~50k. They only way I'd own one at this point is if I were to be in and out in 3 yrs/40k, and I'm not quite there yet.

I'm not trying to convince you of anything. But it's kind of silly to whine about the G37 being boring when you refuse to purchase a car that you think would be more fun to drive anyway. What's the point in even looking through AutoTrader?

When you have preconceived notions that certain cars are more reliable than others, then hamstring yourself by only considering those specific cars, what's the point in complaining about them if you refuse to buy anything else at the end of the day? You want an appliance, but you don't want to live with the compromises that come with driving an appliance. (For the record, I don't think the G37 is in the appliance category, personally, but you get the point.)

Also, it's 2012. No car is patently unreliable. The gap between the most reliable car and least reliable car these days is not that much. Sure, some cost more to fix, but who cares? Even the cheapest shitbox you can buy new will cost a fortune to fix these days.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: GoCougs on June 09, 2012, 04:08:22 PM
Quote from: TurboDan on June 09, 2012, 12:18:48 PM
I'm not trying to convince you of anything. But it's kind of silly to whine about the G37 being boring when you refuse to purchase a car that you think would be more fun to drive anyway. What's the point in even looking through AutoTrader?

When you have preconceived notions that certain cars are more reliable than others, then hamstring yourself by only considering those specific cars, what's the point in complaining about them if you refuse to buy anything else at the end of the day? You want an appliance, but you don't want to live with the compromises that come with driving an appliance. (For the record, I don't think the G37 is in the appliance category, personally, but you get the point.)

Also, it's 2012. No car is patently unreliable. The gap between the most reliable car and least reliable car these days is not that much. Sure, some cost more to fix, but who cares? Even the cheapest shitbox you can buy new will cost a fortune to fix these days.

I didn't say the G was boring I said I got bored with it.

I care that some cars cost more to fix (and need more fixes than average).
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: shp4man on June 09, 2012, 05:24:30 PM
Quote from: hotrodalex on June 09, 2012, 10:52:38 AM
My dad has the option to buy an early 60's Beetle from a coworker's family. The engine needs to be rebuilt, but that's not too hard with those cars. It's just built up too much right now and doesn't run well. A little detuning and it would probably make a nice driver.

Dunno if he'll go for it, though. He was going to buy it, but then heard about the engine and decided against it. However, I think he changed his mind again. I think he did some research and found out he could sell most of the current parts that he doesn't want and it would pay for all the things that need to be fixed. Plus, he just got a birthday check from my grandma and said "that'll pay for a Beetle". :lol:

I've owned and worked on a bunch of air-cooled cars over the years. The engine is pretty easy to get out- 4 bolts, the hoses and wires and boom, it's on the ground. A decent, and I stress decent, 1600 dual port long block would run about $1200 bucks. Beetles are worth pretty good bucks, too. I sold my '66 for 5 grand in 2 weeks and it was a driver, not some mint garage queen. Rust is your enemy in the floorboards, parts are still easy to get, too.
I say go for it!
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Gotta-Qik-C7 on June 10, 2012, 09:22:04 AM
Quote from: TurboDan on June 09, 2012, 12:18:48 PM
Even the cheapest shitbox you can buy new will cost a fortune to fix these days.
Like someones Yaris that needs a $1000 fan replacement......     ;)
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Lebowski on June 10, 2012, 12:12:13 PM
Marked not sure, definitely not anything imminent.

4runner I plan to keep for a long time.  It's perfect for what I bought it for.

C6 I still love driving and have no objective reason to change, but it'll be 7 years old around year end so at the same time I could justify replacing at that time if an opportunity presented itself.  Hard to see myself parting with it for anything less than a 911.  Based on how my year is going though it probably won't be this year.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Gotta-Qik-C7 on June 11, 2012, 06:04:37 PM
Quote from: Lebowski on June 10, 2012, 12:12:13 PM
Marked not sure, definitely not anything imminent.

4runner I plan to keep for a long time.  It's perfect for what I bought it for.

C6 I still love driving and have no objective reason to change, but it'll be 7 years old around year end so at the same time I could justify replacing at that time if an opportunity presented itself.  Hard to see myself parting with it for anything less than a 911.  Based on how my year is going though it probably won't be this year.
You wouldn't consider the C7?
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Lebowski on June 11, 2012, 07:03:22 PM
Quote from: Gotta-Qik-G8 on June 11, 2012, 06:04:37 PM

You wouldn't consider the C7?



If it's out if/when I decide to change, I'd consider it.  I don't think I'd wait for it if I was ready to do something before that.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: ChrisV on June 13, 2012, 07:15:10 AM
Quote from: hotrodalex on June 09, 2012, 10:45:08 AM
Did you get a new engine for the E38 or is it still out of commission?

I got a replacemt engine that was supposedly low mileage. After getting it home (I bought it online from Slat Lake City) it appears to have been driven short trips with no oil changes and is sludged to beat hell, and will have to be rebuilt itself, which has kind of depressed me about the project.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: TBR on June 13, 2012, 09:57:51 PM
Quote from: Vinsanity on June 03, 2012, 08:55:40 PM
The Caddy's definitely sticking around until at least the last payment is made ~Jan.2014, and ideally until my student loans are paid off in 2017. By then, it will be 13 years old, and 10 years under my possession. Which should be just in time for me to buy a midlife crisis car :lol:

Dude, no offense, but that's really depressing.

The plan is to work for 2 years, go to grad school for 2 years, and then make shit tons of cash and buy a new car. I figure I'll hardly be driving at all when I'm working (just put in an application for an apartment less than a mile from where I'll be working) and will probably drive even less in grad school so the Subie can hopefully make it another 4 years (at 176000 miles right now). Absolutely no clue what I'll buy though. Really like the practicality of the wagon so one option might be doing the dual car route (though that could be difficult wrt urban apartment parking), buying a wagon/hatch (GTI and WRX come to mind), or just screwing practicality altogether.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Vinsanity on June 13, 2012, 11:21:52 PM
Quote from: TBR on June 13, 2012, 09:57:51 PM
Dude, no offense, but that's really depressing.

None taken. I just feel compelled to do more grown-up things now like move out of my apartment and buy a house, and also avoid throwing away ~$3,000 in taxes every time I buy a car.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: sportyaccordy on June 14, 2012, 07:41:57 AM
Quote from: Vinsanity on June 13, 2012, 11:21:52 PM
None taken. I just feel compelled to do more grown-up things now like move out of my apartment and buy a house, and also avoid throwing away ~$3,000 in taxes every time I buy a car.
:praise:

I am fully invested in this bike. Just bought the full Corbin seat. Got a lot of ideas but they are so much $$$. RSV1000 upper fairing, bixenon projector, some kind of hybrid lower fairing/belly pan, riser clip ons, USD forks + rear shock upgrade, Versys tank... I could get it all done over the winter but all those parts would be like $2000

Maybe if the $$$ is right.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: TBR on June 14, 2012, 10:43:04 AM
Quote from: Vinsanity on June 13, 2012, 11:21:52 PM
None taken. I just feel compelled to do more grown-up things now like move out of my apartment and buy a house, and also avoid throwing away ~$3,000 in taxes every time I buy a car.

Yeah, so I was referring to paying off student loans and having a midlife crisis be near simultaneous events.

I'm all for fiscal responsibility when it comes to cars. Recall that I bought a 1995 Honda with 307k miles in 2006 and drove it for 5 years and 70k miles.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Vinsanity on June 14, 2012, 07:18:10 PM
Quote from: TBR on June 14, 2012, 10:43:04 AM
Yeah, so I was referring to paying off student loans and having a midlife crisis be near simultaneous events.

I'm all for fiscal responsibility when it comes to cars. Recall that I bought a 1995 Honda with 307k miles in 2006 and drove it for 5 years and 70k miles.

Ah, that. I'll "only" be 36 when the aforementioned student loans are paid off, so I guess I won't quite be in MLC mode yet, but it's never too soon to buy a whimsical sports car :mrcool:
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: AutobahnSHO on June 15, 2012, 06:56:44 AM
Boss finally said Miata goes to me. He drives it another while, so it'll be June 25-26, can't wait.

Then Subie goes into the shop.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Raza on June 15, 2012, 01:09:10 PM
Quote from: Vinsanity on June 14, 2012, 07:18:10 PM
Ah, that. I'll "only" be 36 when the aforementioned student loans are paid off, so I guess I won't quite be in MLC mode yet, but it's never too soon to buy a whimsical sports car :mrcool:

Fuck, student loans are the worst thing ever.  I'm so lucky that I don't have any loans to pay off.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: sportyaccordy on June 15, 2012, 01:20:50 PM
Quote from: Raza  link=topic=27547.msg1734916#msg1734916 date=1339787350
Fuck, student loans are the worst thing ever.  I'm so lucky that I don't have any loans to pay off.
Me too. Wifey got hit bad. There was a loan she never paid on cause of her parents bankruptcy or some shit. She didn't even know she had it + got no notification. She gets a call out of the blue saying "you owe us $27K, what are you gonna do?" Since she had cash they wound up just taking $14K. Not a bad deal but damn I wish we still had that $$$

People can blame kids all they want but theres no reason a kid should be coming out of college with a year's salary worth of student debt and no jobs to pay them off
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: AutobahnSHO on June 15, 2012, 03:59:23 PM
Quote from: sportyaccordy on June 15, 2012, 01:20:50 PM
People can blame kids all they want but theres no reason a kid should be coming out of college with a year's salary worth of student debt and no jobs to pay them off

The kids made the decision to sign for the loans? :huh:   Army paid mine off, was under $10k. I worked, did scholarships, grants, etc...    We're still chiseling away at wifey's. She let them stay delinquent for a while..    :heated:
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: MrH on June 15, 2012, 05:14:28 PM
Quote from: sportyaccordy on June 15, 2012, 01:20:50 PM
Me too. Wifey got hit bad. There was a loan she never paid on cause of her parents bankruptcy or some shit. She didn't even know she had it + got no notification. She gets a call out of the blue saying "you owe us $27K, what are you gonna do?" Since she had cash they wound up just taking $14K. Not a bad deal but damn I wish we still had that $$$

People can blame kids all they want but theres no reason a kid should be coming out of college with a year's salary worth of student debt and no jobs to pay them off

:rolleyes: It's the damn kid's fault for taking out a shit ton of loans to get a degree that isn't employable.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: r0tor on June 15, 2012, 05:56:08 PM
I heard from coworkers that the federal stafford college loans went up to above 6.5% this year... Good god that must suck - I think mine were like 2%
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: GoCougs on June 15, 2012, 06:19:27 PM
It's their fault even if it's a worthwhile degree.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: CJ on June 15, 2012, 06:29:20 PM
Quote from: GoCougs on June 15, 2012, 06:19:27 PM
It's their fault even if it's a worthwhile degree.

It's not like college is cheap.  Not everyone has parents who can afford to pay for their college.  I do, but that's besides the point.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: AutobahnSHO on June 15, 2012, 07:23:52 PM
If you can't afford a $100k tractor, don't buy one. Doesn't matter if it's the best tool in the world, not everyone needs one or should have one. Even if Financing is Available.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: CJ on June 16, 2012, 12:56:48 AM
You can't really get anywhere without a college education, though. That's the difference. By the end of this year, I'll have around $20,000 in student loans. My parents will have paid nearly $60,000.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Rupert on June 16, 2012, 01:03:22 AM
Student loans are great if you do it right, but I never felt like I knew what I was doing when I was getting them. I also had less than $15k because I went to a community college for a while and my folks paid for most of it.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: GoCougs on June 16, 2012, 01:45:45 AM
Quote from: CJ on June 16, 2012, 12:56:48 AM
You can't really get anywhere without a college education, though. That's the difference. By the end of this year, I'll have around $20,000 in student loans. My parents will have paid nearly $60,000.

No one needs a $80,000 - $100,000 college education.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Vinsanity on June 16, 2012, 09:39:44 AM
Yikes, I didn't mean to derail the thread into a student loan debate.

I don't get the statement that "it's the student's fault even if the degree is worthwhile". If the degree was worthwhile, then there should be no fault to be found. I feel that my degree was worthwhile because my earnings potential justified the cost of earning the degree, so I don't feel that there was any fault to be found; I made a fairly sensible decision. Then again, I started off with nowhere near $100k in student loans.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: SVT666 on June 16, 2012, 09:52:32 AM
Quote from: GoCougs on June 16, 2012, 01:45:45 AM
No one needs a $80,000 - $100,000 college education.
Really?  What about doctors?
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: 2o6 on June 16, 2012, 10:31:38 AM
Quote from: SVT666 on June 16, 2012, 09:52:32 AM
Really?  What about doctors?

DON'T ENGAGE
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: 2o6 on June 16, 2012, 10:32:27 AM
Now that I seem to at least have a grip on what's wrong with my Yaris, I will end up holding onto it for quite a while.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Rupert on June 16, 2012, 12:34:48 PM
A while = until something else minor breaks and you freak out?

;)
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: GoCougs on June 16, 2012, 12:51:47 PM
Quote from: SVT666 on June 16, 2012, 09:52:32 AM
Really?  What about doctors?

What I meant was, $80k - $100k isn't the minimum price of entry for a 4-year degree (i.e., there is no justification for that amount of debt/spending, other than free will choice).
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: GoCougs on June 16, 2012, 12:54:38 PM
Quote from: 2o6 on June 16, 2012, 10:31:38 AM
DON'T ENGAGE

Stop going into debt for frivolous things and go and finish a 4-year degree in something useful (preferably, STEM) - you don't need $80k - $100k to do it.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: 2o6 on June 16, 2012, 12:58:42 PM
Quote from: Rupert on June 16, 2012, 12:34:48 PM
A while = until something else minor breaks and you freak out?

;)

Heh, heh, maybe.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Atomic on June 16, 2012, 01:33:39 PM
Getting excited about the new 2013 model year Volvo due next month. Sat in an opened 2012 XC60 T6 AWD non R-Design without navigation when the dealership was closed. With keys inside, inside I played around with the infotainment menu of options and was ecstatic at how easy the system in this vehicle was easy to use to personalize all functions. Felt great getting a heads start. I think I am really going to enjoy this new purchase.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: 2o6 on June 16, 2012, 01:37:16 PM
Which model have you decided upon, again?
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: 68_427 on June 16, 2012, 01:54:33 PM
XC60 R Design
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: AutobahnSHO on June 16, 2012, 02:18:08 PM
Quote from: CJ on June 16, 2012, 12:56:48 AM
You can't really get anywhere without a college education, though. That's the difference. By the end of this year, I'll have around $20,000 in student loans. My parents will have paid nearly $60,000.

Guess who didn't finish college??
-bill gates
-the guy who founded Dell
-bill cosby
etc...

I got my current job before I finished my bachelor's. (Currently pulling ~$72k/year plus virtually free health insurance and 30days paid vacation/year. AND pays for college!!! guaranteed cost of living raises every January, another bump for every 2yrs of service, and promotion rate is quite good, those are around $3k/year every 2-5years. But sometimes they send me where people try to kill me....)

Sometimes you gotta work your way up. Sometimes you just gotta be smart. Sometimes you gotta be in the right place at the right time. College is not a prerequisite for success in life.
Helps, sure.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Laconian on June 16, 2012, 02:40:06 PM
The exceptions to the rule, are, well, exceptional.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: GoCougs on June 16, 2012, 06:28:54 PM
Quote from: Laconian on June 16, 2012, 02:40:06 PM
The exceptions to the rule, are, well, exceptional.

The days of garage-/dorm room-borne technology (a la BASIC or Apple I) are long gone; technology's cool but it raises the innovation bar something fierce.

Graduating high school today is brutal - the competition for spots in STEM programs at accredited schools is crazy (I keep in touch with some of my professors).

The competition will continue to get more brutal as the years march on, with education (in STEM) becoming that much more critical to success (and by definition, harder to achieve).
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Rupert on June 16, 2012, 06:32:17 PM
Facebook was dorm room ten years ago, and it's the very model of current social networking. That kind of innovation is always possible and will probably always happen, if intermittently, but it's never been a good reason to quit school for almost everyone.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: GoCougs on June 16, 2012, 06:37:53 PM
Quote from: Rupert on June 16, 2012, 06:32:17 PM
Facebook was dorm room ten years ago, and it's the very model of current social networking. That kind of innovation is always possible and will probably always happen, if intermittently, but it's never been a good reason to quit school for almost everyone.

True, but there wasn't really any technological breakthrough - Facebook was leveraging existing technology. Though a big deal now IMO it was only 2% the innovation of BASIC or the Apple I. Same pretty much goes for Apples iDevices.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Rupert on June 16, 2012, 08:58:20 PM
I think the original point was that college /= success, and success /= college.

And must you use "leverage" like that? Just say," Facebook used existing technology." C'mon, middle man.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: AutobahnSHO on June 16, 2012, 09:55:48 PM

Quote from: GoCougs on June 16, 2012, 06:37:53 PM
True, but there wasn't really any technological breakthrough - Facebook was leveraging existing technology. Though a big deal now IMO it was only 2% the innovation of BASIC or the Apple I. Same pretty much goes for Apples iDevices.
I disagree. And not just cuz I disagree.

Computers were completely there. Jobs and Woz were using pre-existing components, assembling very much in the same innovative fashion FB came to be. The iStuff came later, revolutionary in the user interface. MP3 players were already on the market- just as much as computers were before the Apples took off.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Raza on June 16, 2012, 11:39:56 PM
Quote from: Rupert on June 16, 2012, 12:34:48 PM
A while = until something else minor breaks and you freak out?

;)

Tank runs out of gas.  "Oh my god, I need to buy a new car!" 
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: TBR on June 17, 2012, 10:06:19 PM
Quote from: Vinsanity on June 16, 2012, 09:39:44 AM
Yikes, I didn't mean to derail the thread into a student loan debate.

I don't get the statement that "it's the student's fault even if the degree is worthwhile". If the degree was worthwhile, then there should be no fault to be found. I feel that my degree was worthwhile because my earnings potential justified the cost of earning the degree, so I don't feel that there was any fault to be found; I made a fairly sensible decision. Then again, I started off with nowhere near $100k in student loans.

More my fault than yours.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Atomic on June 22, 2012, 06:21:43 AM
Quote from: 68_427 on June 16, 2012, 01:54:33 PM
XC60 R Design

Yep. No regrets whatsoever re: my order. I was really taken by the BMW X3 but there were several downsides with going with a Bimmer, including: no local dealerships. There was a slight snag (innocent error on bank's part) with the Volvo order delaying it slightly (August vs. July) but I am actually glad with the timing. If I had skimped on options, I would have some regrets. Added the lighted door skid plates at the last minute. Even though I think it's a dealer installed accessory, I had it factored into the deal.

Will keep you posted  :tounge:
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: cawimmer430 on June 22, 2012, 08:51:32 AM
Auto Motor und Sport just did a 100,000 km test on a Citroen C5 Tourer 140 HDI (140-hp) and it got great results. Then there were the letters from C5 owners commenting on how reliable their C5 is and above all how comfortable and fuel-efficient. I want this car.  :wub:

The Citroen C4 Aircross is also appealing. It's a badge engineered Mitsubishi ASX though so it won't "psychologically feel" like a true Citroen...

(http://img823.imageshack.us/img823/7766/dsc0030xnt.jpg)
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: SVT666 on June 22, 2012, 10:11:25 AM
I may or may or not have something to announce this weekend.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Gotta-Qik-C7 on June 22, 2012, 03:27:19 PM
Quote from: SVT666 on June 22, 2012, 10:11:25 AM
I may or may or not have something to announce this weekend.
:popcorn:
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: hotrodalex on June 23, 2012, 10:23:19 PM
Quote from: SVT666 on June 22, 2012, 10:11:25 AM
I may or may or not have something to announce this weekend.

K Teuton.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: SVT666 on June 23, 2012, 10:54:23 PM
We bought a new ride.  Tomorrow all will be revealed when I can post pictures after I wash it in the morning.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Vinsanity on June 26, 2012, 09:34:12 PM
So here's my 5-year plan

(http://images.autotrader.com/scaler/544/408/images/2012/6/1/318/768/25963530888.318768057.IM1.MAIN.565x421_A.565x375.jpg)
http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale/vehicledetails.xhtml?listingId=318768057 (http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale/vehicledetails.xhtml?listingId=318768057)

(http://images.autotrader.com/scaler/544/408/images/2012/6/23/324/355/26203789683.324355975.IM1.MAIN.565x421_A.562x421.jpg)
http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale/vehicledetails.xhtml?listingId=324355975 (http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale/vehicledetails.xhtml?listingId=324355975)

One or the other. Or both. Haven't decided yet.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: CJ on June 26, 2012, 10:14:14 PM
The Benz.  It's a real coupe...and I much prefer the interior.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Vinsanity on June 26, 2012, 10:19:34 PM
Quote from: CJ on June 26, 2012, 10:14:14 PM
The Benz.  It's a real coupe...and I much prefer the interior.

it does have moar pistons...
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Raza on June 27, 2012, 04:39:34 AM
Quote from: CJ on June 26, 2012, 10:14:14 PM
The Benz.  It's a real coupe...and I much prefer the interior.

It's also a very expensive C class with E class styling. 
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Raza on June 27, 2012, 04:41:09 AM
Quote from: Vinsanity on June 26, 2012, 10:19:34 PM
it does have moar pistons...

The A7 has the S4 motor.  Trust me, it's fast. 

Although its real competitor is the CLS550.  Those are the two cars my mom was looking at when she was shopping.  And we know how that story ended.  E class coupe is a money grab, don't fall for it.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: nickdrinkwater on June 27, 2012, 10:12:41 AM
Quote from: CJ on June 26, 2012, 10:14:14 PM
The Benz.  It's a real coupe...and I much prefer the interior.

Almost, but not all of the side glass disappears unfortunately
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Vinsanity on June 27, 2012, 11:54:56 PM
Quote from: Raza  link=topic=27547.msg1740579#msg1740579 date=1340793669
The A7 has the S4 motor.  Trust me, it's fast.  

Although its real competitor is the CLS550.  Those are the two cars my mom was looking at when she was shopping.  And we know how that story ended.  E class coupe is a money grab, don't fall for it.

Interestingly, though they're quite different cars, the A7 and E550 coupe are both about the same price brand new. I agree that the A7 seems to be a better value, but the E550 has that beast of a motor under the hood.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: AutobahnSHO on June 29, 2012, 06:34:55 PM
Plans complete..

http://www.carspin.net/forums/index.php?topic=27030.30

Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Atomic on July 22, 2012, 07:41:23 AM
Quote from: Atomic on June 03, 2012, 07:21:52 PM
What would you like? Is it in reach?

Me? I ordered my Volvo as most are aware.

It is my dream car. In reach? Well, I will struggle some, but have no regrets.

UPDATED: July 22, 2012

Well, the car is in! I am getting gun shy...

Only the thought of writing out the check and getting that first ding...

It will be ready on Wednesday and I probably won't see it until then (not far, but in the opposite direction...) being that I will leaving to see family today. The Volvo dealer has it locked away inside...

I am really excited, but I will really miss my dad's Accord that I am gifting to my niece... My dad worshipped her and it will be emotional for her... She was with him when he died and their bond was unbelievable close...

That eases the loss and has made it easier not having a trade or money from selling a car to buy the new one... It will be sweet having the Accord EX sedan in the family for many reasons...

One minor change between the 2012 and '13 Volvo XC60 T6 R-Design is the change from Soft-Beige to Off-Black headliner... With my color choice of Off-Black premium sports leather with Soft-Beige leather inserts. Something I was hoping for after talking with a buddy citing a problem with the tan headliner in his Audi causing an annoying reflection against the tinted windows... I never thought of this occuring, I just like the darker, richer color with the primarily deep color leather interior of my Volvo R-Design.

I will keep you posted!
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: dazzleman on July 28, 2012, 05:05:26 PM
My car is 6 years old, but I have no immediate plans to replace it.  I have 49,000 miles it, it's running well, and there's no payment.  Until it starts requiring some major work, I intend to keep it, probably in reality for 2-3 more years.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Rupert on July 28, 2012, 05:14:14 PM
Wow, Dave, that's pretty... middle class of you.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: nickdrinkwater on July 28, 2012, 05:28:43 PM
Quote from: Atomic on July 22, 2012, 07:41:23 AM


We need pix !!
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Atomic on August 03, 2012, 06:40:43 AM
Quote from: dazzleman on July 28, 2012, 05:05:26 PM
My car is 6 years old, but I have no immediate plans to replace it.  I have 49,000 miles it, it's running well, and there's no payment.  Until it starts requiring some major work, I intend to keep it, probably in reality for 2-3 more years.

Change from the NYC auto show, Dave? Thought you were narrowing down choices.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: 3.0L V6 on August 03, 2012, 07:00:43 AM
Quote from: Rupert on July 28, 2012, 05:14:14 PM
Wow, Dave, that's pretty... middle class of you.

There's a reason why he's where he is. Smart man.

Anyway, I recently purchased a new beater for myself in late May - a 2001 Mazda Protege.
97k kilometers (60k miles), automatic (beggars can't be choosers), $3500.

Have put a new thermostat, accessory drive belts and oil pan into it so far (the old oil pan was oozing oil due to corrosion). It needs a new A/C condenser, as the one currently is finished, and probably some exhaust work, but hopefully that can wait until next year.



Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Morris Minor on August 03, 2012, 08:38:12 AM
Lots of economic uncertainty in the Minor household at the moment. So I'll be holding onto the Pilot through its tenth birthday. It's paid for and maintained.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Lebowski on August 03, 2012, 09:03:10 AM
Quote from: dazzleman on July 28, 2012, 05:05:26 PM
My car is 6 years old, but I have no immediate plans to replace it.  I have 49,000 miles it, it's running well, and there's no payment.  Until it starts requiring some major work, I intend to keep it, probably in reality for 2-3 more years.

That's smart. I'm increasingly amazed at ppl who replace cars every 2-3 yrs.  My 4runner is 2 1/2 yrs old and still feels brand new. My C6 is 6 1/2 yrs old, and is just as much fun as ever and is still very reliable.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: MrH on August 03, 2012, 10:44:09 AM
Well, I just bought the BRZ.  I'll probably pay it off by spring of next year.  The plan is to keep it indefinitely until one of the following happens:

-A somehow get a giant promotion that makes me LOL-money.  Pretty unlikely.
-STI version comes out that's substantially better than my current BRZ.  It's probably at least 2 years off.

I don't see myself wanting to sell it for anything else until that happens.  A second car 3 years from now is pretty likely if either of the things above doesn't happen.  Probably a used Honda Element or Tacoma or something.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Xer0 on August 03, 2012, 10:48:34 AM
Quote from: Lebowski on August 03, 2012, 09:03:10 AM
That's smart. I'm increasingly amazed at ppl who replace cars every 2-3 yrs. 

Aren't most new car purchases leases?  I guess that would kind of force them into a new car every few years (unless you buy it after the lease period, but then if you leased you probably aren't interested in buying).

Personally, my Civic has 10 months left on it.  After its paid off I don't have any immediate plans to get something else.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: AutobahnSHO on August 03, 2012, 02:12:13 PM
Quote from: Xer0 on August 03, 2012, 10:48:34 AM
Aren't most new car purchases leases?

Probably not. We have a friend couple who asked how we could afford 2 cars. Lessee, we used to always buy with cash (tax refund) and then we financed $5k of minivan after putting $3k down. $100/month payments.

Meanwhile they were buying new- everytime the warranty ran out. They still usually owed more than tradein value, so they were like $20k upside down with their last purchase a year or two ago. Finally they bought a $2k beater because he was having issues getting to work.   (I can't imagine only having one car!!)
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: AutobahnSHO on August 03, 2012, 02:14:36 PM
Anyway, bought the Miata, still have paid-off Subie and Minivan. Absolutely blows my mind that I have a "fun" car and 2 other cars..
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Vinsanity on August 03, 2012, 03:17:28 PM
I'm constantly going back and forth as to whether I want to hold out to trade in for a boss/baller status car in five years, or get an enthusiast-approved second car in two.

The enthusiast car would be fun, but the boss car would be boss.

Good thing I have a lot of time to decide.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: dazzleman on August 03, 2012, 05:44:19 PM
Quote from: Rupert on July 28, 2012, 05:14:14 PM
Wow, Dave, that's pretty... middle class of you.

:lol:
I've always been middle class by background and way of thinking.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: dazzleman on August 03, 2012, 05:45:21 PM
Quote from: Atomic on August 03, 2012, 06:40:43 AM
Change from the NYC auto show, Dave? Thought you were narrowing down choices.

I go back and forth, but I think I'll stick with what I have for a few more years.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: dazzleman on August 03, 2012, 05:46:03 PM
Quote from: Vinsanity on August 03, 2012, 03:17:28 PM
I'm constantly going back and forth as to whether I want to hold out to trade in for a boss/baller status car in five years, or get an enthusiast-approved second car in two.

The enthusiast car would be fun, but the boss car would be boss.

Good thing I have a lot of time to decide.

Take your time man.  And make sure you really are a boss/baller before you get a boss/baller car.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Vinsanity on August 03, 2012, 06:00:41 PM
Quote from: dazzleman on August 03, 2012, 05:46:03 PM
Take your time man.  And make sure you really are a boss/baller before you get a boss/baller car.

Thanks for the advice. Being hood rich is pretty unfulfilling. 10-year-old Bangle-butt 7-serieses and McMansion-looking apartment buildings wear off their coolness pretty quickly :mask:
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: dazzleman on August 03, 2012, 06:45:32 PM
Quote from: Vinsanity on August 03, 2012, 06:00:41 PM
Thanks for the advice. Being hood rich is pretty unfulfilling. 10-year-old Bangle-butt 7-serieses and McMansion-looking apartment buildings wear off their coolness pretty quickly :mask:

Damn right.  Not only that, but pretending is pretty expensive, and can actually prevent you from becoming a boss/baller.

Besides, you're doing pretty well with cars already, man.  You have good taste in sneakers and cars.... :praise:
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Atomic on August 04, 2012, 05:32:54 AM
Quote from: dazzleman on August 03, 2012, 05:45:21 PM
I go back and forth, but I think I'll stick with what I have for a few more years.

I think many of us always look... Part of the fun... I admire your self control, bro. I get the bug often but am really happy with my new car purchase. For me it was necessary to buy when I did.

I always wanted to gift the 2006 Honda Accord EX (7,000 miles when I took ownership in 2010!) that my dad bought before the cancer hit hard. Her big and safe Pontiac "Bonnie" that her dad restored finally gave out with about 150,000 miles on it. This prompted me to order a brand new car for me and post vehicular, I decided on the Volvo.

Speaking of the New York City show and Volvo, I inspected the Passion Red XC60 T6 R-Design there closely knowing that would be the car for me but not the first color of choice. I decided beforehand that my new vehicle would be this model but it was in NYC that I really got psyched.

The crew would gladly HELP YOU spend your money at the 2013 show  :lol:
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: dazzleman on August 04, 2012, 07:07:57 AM
Quote from: Atomic on August 04, 2012, 05:32:54 AM
I think many of us always look... Part of the fun... I admire your self control, bro. I get the bug often but am really happy with my new car purchase. For me it was necessary to buy when I did.

I always wanted to gift the 2006 Honda Accord EX (7,000 miles when I took ownership in 2010!) that my dad bought before the cancer hit hard. Her big and safe Pontiac "Bonnie" that her dad restored finally gave out with about 150,000 miles on it. This prompted me to order a brand new car for me and post vehicular, I decided on the Volvo.

Speaking of the New York City show and Volvo, I inspected the Passion Red XC60 T6 R-Design there closely knowing that would be the car for me but not the first color of choice. I decided beforehand that my new vehicle would be this model but it was in NYC that I really got psyched.

The crew would gladly HELP YOU spend your money at the 2013 show  :lol:

Haha, there's no shortage of people who want to "help" me spend my money.  My cousin keeps badgering me to put in a pool.  Stuff like that.  Funny that most of the people who want to help me spend my money have none of their own.  No point in taking financial advice from people who are bankrupt.... :lol:

I'm really not having trouble controlling myself.  I'm past the point in my life where acquisition of material goods is important.  I have what I need.  I'd rather spend the money on travel at this point.  In a couple more years, I'll seriously consider another car, only because I have no patience with taking the car in for a lot of repairs.

I agree about looking, though.  It's fun to look.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Atomic on August 04, 2012, 07:39:35 AM
Quote from: dazzleman on August 04, 2012, 07:07:57 AM
Haha, there's no shortage of people who want to "help" me spend my money.  My cousin keeps badgering me to put in a pool.  Stuff like that.  Funny that most of the people who want to help me spend my money have none of their own.  No point in taking financial advice from people who are bankrupt.... :lol:

I'm really not having trouble controlling myself.  I'm past the point in my life where acquisition of material goods is important.  I have what I need.  I'd rather spend the money on travel at this point.  In a couple more years, I'll seriously consider another car, only because I have no patience with taking the car in for a lot of repairs.

I agree about looking, though.  It's fun to look.

Great life philosophy and ambition to travel, Dave. I am getting the bug to see more of the U.S. and Canada and if not for looking after my mother (early dementia) I would leave the United States and Canada to explore The Great Barrier Reef, Australia and other "must see" places throughout the world. I like your priorities, good man.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: dazzleman on August 04, 2012, 07:42:47 AM
Quote from: Atomic on August 04, 2012, 07:39:35 AM
Great life philosophy and ambition to travel, Dave. I am getting the bug to see more of the U.S. and Canada and if not for looking after my mother (early dementia) I would leave the United States and Canada to explore The Great Barrier Reef, Australia and other "must see" places throughout the world. I like your priorities, good man.

Forgive me for butting in, but you should hire somebody to look after your mother while you're gone, and go.  Caretakers need breaks, and you can be a better caretaker over the longer term if you take care of your own needs too.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Lebowski on August 04, 2012, 07:43:49 AM
Quote from: Xer0 on August 03, 2012, 10:48:34 AM

Aren't most new car purchases leases?  I guess that would kind of force them into a new car every few years (unless you buy it after the lease period, but then if you leased you probably aren't interested in buying).


Sounds like another good reason to avoid leasing :huh:
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: dazzleman on August 04, 2012, 08:05:16 AM
Quote from: Lebowski on August 04, 2012, 07:43:49 AM
Sounds like another good reason to avoid leasing :huh:

Exactly.  Leasing is not a smart move in most cases, IMO.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Lebowski on August 04, 2012, 09:07:24 AM
Quote from: dazzleman on August 04, 2012, 08:05:16 AM

Exactly.  Leasing is not a smart move in most cases, IMO.


I think it's kind of funny when I tell people I think leasing is a bad move, and they'll reply something along the lines of "well, it's the cheapest option if you want a new car every ~2 years".  I kind of just roll my eyes, like yeah that's my point why would you replace your car every 2 years?  There is no cheap way to get into a new car every 2 years.

Granted, this thinking seems to be less common now than 5 or 10 years ago.  I think I only have one friend now who thinks he needs a new car every 2 years.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Atomic on August 04, 2012, 09:31:55 AM
A friend of mine learned the hard way. She leased a gorgeous Mazda6, then lost her job. Her new position (the only thing she could find) was out of town. As a result, she went way over the allotted miles and not only did she own a fortune for this, the dealership supplied her with a long list of additional fees for even the most minuscule dents, dings, stone chips and nearly invisible scratches. She owned thousands and was way in the hole when she decided to purchase the next car.

Yikes!
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Vinsanity on August 04, 2012, 11:37:45 AM
Thing is, I love buying off-lease cars. Letting someone else take the initial depreciation hit as I drive off in a car with low miles and good condition is a boon to me. If leases became less popular and more people become wise to the game, then I'll have to rethink my strategy :frown:
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: dazzleman on August 04, 2012, 12:09:30 PM
Quote from: Vinsanity on August 04, 2012, 11:37:45 AM
Thing is, I love buying off-lease cars. Letting someone else take the initial depreciation hit as I drive off in a car with low miles and good condition is a boon to me. If leases became less popular and more people become wise to the game, then I'll have to rethink my strategy :frown:

That's a very good strategy.  Buy off a short-term (2-3 year) lease, and let somebody else take the depreciation.  The leasing suckers' loss is your gain.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Atomic on August 04, 2012, 12:35:54 PM
Quote from: dazzleman on August 04, 2012, 12:09:30 PM
That's a very good strategy.  Buy off a short-term (2-3 year) lease, and let somebody else take the depreciation.  The leasing suckers' loss is your gain.

:hesaid:

And...

Q: Are lease models apart of what many manufacturers call Certified Used Cars?
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: CALL_911 on August 04, 2012, 12:55:13 PM
Leasing is dumb as hell (unless you can get a straight writeoff), and so is taking out a loan for a car IMO.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Vinsanity on August 04, 2012, 02:40:28 PM
Quote from: CALL_911 on August 04, 2012, 12:55:13 PM
Leasing is dumb as hell (unless you can get a straight writeoff), and so is taking out a loan for a car IMO.

I'd agree about the car note in about 80% of the cases, but if you can manage to not be upside-down on the loan, then it's a great financial tool. I was practically never upside-down on the Caddy, though a big part of that had to do with the market value inflation that took place because of cash for clunkers.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Vinsanity on August 04, 2012, 02:42:23 PM
Quote from: Atomic on August 04, 2012, 12:35:54 PM
:hesaid:

And...

Q: Are lease models apart of what many manufacturers call Certified Used Cars?


Often times, but not necessarily. In my case, my car was a lease return that also came with a certified warranty, but I don't think it's uncommon for a car to be one and not the other.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Raza on August 04, 2012, 03:12:33 PM
Quote from: dazzleman on August 04, 2012, 08:05:16 AM
Exactly.  Leasing is not a smart move in most cases, IMO.

Agreed. After my last lease, I'm not in any rush to lease again. Although, right now I drive little enough to get by on a 15,000 mile lease.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Raza on August 04, 2012, 03:14:51 PM
Quote from: dazzleman on August 04, 2012, 12:09:30 PM
That's a very good strategy.  Buy off a short-term (2-3 year) lease, and let somebody else take the depreciation.  The leasing suckers' loss is your gain.

It's also quite risky. I can't tell you how many people I know who lease and don't take care of the car because they don't own it and are planning on giving it back.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Atomic on August 04, 2012, 04:36:42 PM
Quote from: Raza  on August 04, 2012, 03:14:51 PM
It's also quite risky. I can't tell you how many people I know who lease and don't take care of the car because they don't own it and are planning on giving it back.

Same here and the luxury car owners seen to be the worse. Not certain why that is the case.
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: TurboDan on August 06, 2012, 12:54:38 AM
Quote from: dazzleman on August 04, 2012, 07:07:57 AM
Haha, there's no shortage of people who want to "help" me spend my money.  My cousin keeps badgering me to put in a pool.  Stuff like that.  Funny that most of the people who want to help me spend my money have none of their own.  No point in taking financial advice from people who are bankrupt.... :lol:

I'm really not having trouble controlling myself.  I'm past the point in my life where acquisition of material goods is important.  I have what I need.  I'd rather spend the money on travel at this point.  In a couple more years, I'll seriously consider another car, only because I have no patience with taking the car in for a lot of repairs.

I agree about looking, though.  It's fun to look.

You really are the "forum Dad," Dave. I could literally see my dad typing this exact same post if he was on here.  :lol:

He bought a nice car (A6) but has had it for 11 years. He's only juuuuuust beginning to seriously consider a new car. He never got his timing belt changed in the current one and it's up to 130K, original everything except brakes pretty much. I guess good for VW/Audi but.... ya know...  :devil:
Title: Re: Many of us seem to be getting new cars this year. What are your plans?
Post by: Morris Minor on August 06, 2012, 08:16:28 AM
There is a good article in this month's Consumer Reports on the pros & cons of keeping a car for 15 years (200,000 miles).
Key is to pick a reliable model

(http://i180.photobucket.com/albums/x163/fairalbion/CR_Report_Cars_Page_2.jpg)