[s-cars] Re: New or nearly-new car purchase

[William Noland]

The WRX is very much a performance bargain (I have an 03 Wagon). Aftermarket is excellent and it's reliable. Refined, it is not -- econobox origins show through, though not objectionable. I slapped on a set of aftermarket wheels and tires (225's) and handling is very nice. Parts/service/aftermarket are relatively cheap.

You could pick up a used M Roadster, or Coupe -- looks are an acquired taste. I have the Roadster, but the Coupe is probably a better choice for handling and the occasional track day. I'd call it relatively refined, handling of the Coupe is pretty damn nice (Roadster slightly less so, but still pretty heroic), reliability has been excellent from my experience and acceleration and braking performance will keep you happy for some time to come. Best part is, many of these cars tend to be garage queens and relatively
unabused.

Miata is a nice car and (stock) will probably out handle the above on an autocross course. Afraid I'm too much of an acceleration junkie for the Miata, though.  :-)

Bill Noland