QUOTE (highlucks @ May 22 2010, 11:14 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
nice choice daz it should be a bit of fun for a few years. Oh yeah it can hug you back too.
Yep can't wait to get it. Like you say it's only for a few years (not a life decision). I keep my cars min 3yrs and sometimes up to 5 as work replaces them.
I considered a heap of others but the stuff on the market at the moment didn't grab me as much as the RX8 did. I like to "drive my car" not have the "car drive for me" ( = boring / fall asleep at wheel lol).
Here's what I was looking for -
$30,000 - $50,000 - rules out new model STi and EVOs (too pricey).
New or used under 20,000kms - rules out most of the '07 WRX/STis (don't like the '08 upward models). Most Skyline imports are also 40,000km+, plus parts could be an issue.
Still has new car warranty would be a bonus - rules out most '07 and prior. The RX8 I'm getting still has 3yrs left on it.
More than 2 seats - rules out the Nissan Z series
Handling - gotta handle like it's on rails. Rules out the big Holden / Ford sedans & the Mazda 6 MPS. The old WRX did. The new factory WRX and Mitsu RallyArt "out of the box" didn't cut it when I drove them. Suspension would have to be dropped which is another cost. Lack of exhaust was really distracting too having to hear the engine rev out, felt like I was hurting it. AFAIK RallyArts only come with the twin-clutch automated manual transmission which I couldn't get used to during the test drive (not as easy to know what gear you're in without checking the dash). Lame seats in the RallyArt too! Cmon Mitsu you're supposed to be competing against the WRX... pull your finger out! lol
AWD or RWD (no FWD) - rules out the GOLF GTi, Mazda 3 MPS, Mazda 6 (non-MPS), Ford Focus.
Not sure what other cars would've fit this profile??
Daz
