I read this on CD this morning. Even though the G made it on the list, my pick of the litter would be the S2k.

http://www.canadiandriver.com/articl...der20_2008.htm

 

I agree... great car.
If only it had just a bit more trunk for weekenders.

 

Yeah, the S2000 looks like it might be the most fun on that list. I'm not really a big fan of no torque and windy motorcycle engines in a car though.

Kind of shocking to see the G prices listed there compared to other similar year cars that are way less money to start with.

 

^ Yeah, the prices of the G were quite surprising to me as well.

 

yeah, i kinda feel like a new home buyer in the states, i still owe more than the car is worth now.... values dropped like flies a few months after i got it. (but on the other hand, any examples i find with similar mileage are still pretty pricey, and rare.)

 

Boxster is a nice choice, too, though I don't know much about those first-year ones. I don't mind the Subie, either, and have always liked the looks of those orange Mazdaspeed Proteges. FWD, though.

 

the boxster or bmw m cars mentioned would be my choice for refined performance at a great price. i would be seriously concerned about the maintenance costs at the vintage they would be at <$20K.

the mustang is a surprisingly fun car to punish. i rented one a while back and the newer models handle much better then older gens. brake and suspension upgrades would be a must, but parts and service on the mustang are very economical.

what is the dodge magnum station wagon doing on the list?

 

They had real issues with porous blocks.....

 

My vote would be for the S2k as well; but wow a G35C under 20k

... Do you guys think it is worth holding onto the G35 and see if it holds up a bit better in 2-3 years? I am now reconsidering any future mods if the mods eventually will be worth as much as my car;haha. Any reason why G35/350Z have such crappy resale value or is it just due to the new models flooding the market and new owners selling their used ones at any loss?

It really, really sucks though when your car depreciates 16k (half its value) in 8 months .

 

i'm surprised they didnt throw the Miata in?

 

The lack of torque doesn't bother me a bit Deane. I think that the S2k is one of the rare cars that can get away with it. Every time that I drove my uncles S2k, I was in heaven........its such a blast to drive. I am not quite sure when it will be, but I promised myself I will have one as a weekend toy at some point in the future.

 

yea and no Z either?? i'm guessing its just grouped with the g35 seeming how it is mentioned in the section for the G

 

2870 lbs curb weight plays a big part

 

I'm sure it doesn't since I know you would love to get one. No question it's a joy to drive. Top down experience probably didn't hurt. It blows away the G in handling. I had one fly away from me a few years ago in the twisties.

For power, my preferences are nearer the other end of the spectrum. I would actually like to get back into a V8 again for the torque.....but I won't because of high gas prices and type/cost of cars available with them.

 

Yep, having the top down definitely added to the appeal for me. My weekend will most definitely be a vert.

Ian, I sure am envious of your weekend toy!