Interesting cars under $15Kish

[HaloArchive]

Another vote for e39 /m5. Pony up though for an example with under 100k on the clock and that has full records. Look for a 2002 or 2003 model, earlier ones have issues.

Another note, I sold my TiAg/Black 2003 e39 m5 with 96k for $20k a year ago.

[Andy348]

That was quick!

I think the main thing is that I have no idea what I want - I love the E30 for the fact that I can fix anything on it (its simplicity). Yet I drive my dad's Land Rover and kind of want a reliable SUV that I know for damn sure it will get me where I want to go through rain or snow.

But its worth noting I'm not driving the car daily - it's a weekend car throughout the year, and I'll DD it in the summer.

Thanks for all the suggestions - they're all quite interesting. Theres a blue R32 around here that sounds godly, but believe it or not they're quite common. Not sure if it's my scene (no offense, just around here the VW scene is entirely just stance)

Subaru's/RBs etc - my brother's got a 2.5RS that he is completely in love with. I like it but not enough to own the same car as him haha

My opinions may not be shared with others, edited this far too much:

What do you need? More doors? More space? Or are you just looking for fun?

E39 M5's are amazing cars. Probably my favorite 4-door sedan.

Even though you can score one for less than 15k, be sure you know what you're buying. There is one that is beat to shit locally for sale for ~$8k. I wouldn't touch that thing unless I was going to completely rebuild it, or put the S62 into an E30.

IF you can afford to treat her (E39 M5) like a garage queen and maintain her right then by all means go for it. I don't mean treat her like a garage queen all the time, but don't be the person who runs it into the ground because you don't understand that you're going to be spending money on it often.

E46 M3's are awesome too, but they aren't my favorite by any means. I also think they follow the E39 in terms of maintenance, if you're buying a cheap one, be sure to know what you're buying.

X5s only because of their reputation scare me, same thing, maintaining them could be pricey? Great things when they are running in tip-top shape though. Don't like Touaregs much at all. (Not a BMW fanboy.)



I owned a '99 Z3M Coupe for 5 years, should have never sold it, especially for what I sold it for, and since it was resold 6 months later. Sellers remorse much? Yep.

I wanted to erase debt and fund a new business, so I guess you can say my priorities made sense. I'll own another, and never let it go. Especially for the small number made, I want one before they gain in price.

They are peculiar cars, and probably not for everybody. I too was afraid of the subframe issues but never had any problems. It's not as big of an issue really. If it does begin to tear or crack, you get it fixed, then it's set for life. Some complain that they aren't comfortable, but in my eyes they are one of few cars under ~$20k that are true sports cars (aka not a sport sedan). I'm obsessed with shooting brakes though, so that leads to it. Something about automotive shapes that aren't used anymore is so appealing, so sexy, wide hips, dem' curves, etc.

Yeah, I miss that car. It doesn't feel like anything else when driving it either.

With $15kish I'd suggest saving that money and waiting or buying a reliable cheap car that doesn't gain many smiles, let your adventures do that. Or make your E30 reliable enough to take anywhere, and again save the rest. I just realized where you live, perhaps wait for an E30 Touring? Save the rest?

I guess I'd say fun overall. But a little bit of practicality too. It won't be used as a DD though, as I don't exactly have parking at my apartment.

I LOVE E39 M5s, really, like love. But I'm deathly afraid of an S62 engine, and other M5 parts ($$$$) after 100K miles. Is that justified? I dunno. Also, can anyone speak to the DIYability of an M5?

You make a good point about travelling. I really wanna do some road trips, and that's part of the reason that I'm looking to buy a new car. Honestly, I've poured more and more money into my E30 and all it's given me is trouble. It has been reliable maybe 1/8th of the time I've owned it. And sure, most of the time it was my fault - I kept it off the road to do the suspension, or fuel lines, engine swap, new fuel tank, etc etc etc. But then I spent all summer doing the rear bushings whenever I had time between starting my company and working 9 hours a day. Two days before I go to leave it responds on the third crank with a metal clunk. It's been eating starter gears, and I assume I'll need a new flywheel. Looks like I'm dropping the tranny for the 5th time.

Sorry, that went on a bit of a tangent. I'm just hesitant to put more money into my E30 (I will definitely fix the problems and make it reliable) when it is rusty as sin.

Here's an example of the rust, if it makes any difference:

You're in higher mileage STI or immaculate RSti territory with that price range. My swapped rs was probably the most fun car I owned, easily out performed my s52 touring, and immensely more practical in your province.

http://www.rs25.com/forums/f171/t200182-subaru-rs-sti-swap-sale-14k-smogged.html

http://www.rs25.com/forums/f171/t203197-1993-gf8-full-05-06-sti-swap-6-speed-5x114-3-a.html

http://www.rs25.com/forums/f171/t202...sti-parts.html

That first one is damn clean :o but sadly my brother has that area covered. And I'm definitely jelly, I've drifted his 2.5 in the snow and it was about 100x more fun than anything else I've drifted. Epic.

A Evo...civic si, fun and reliable, teenagers and ricers will become your new best friends though. G35x is also not a bad choice. I'm not a huge 540 fan b/c my friend always has to fix something on his. Love the e39 m5 and e46 m3 but maintence costs scare me.

I would look a 530i sports or a g35x, a standard z3 coupe seems pretty hard to find

Z3 Coupes would need travelling to the states most likely, I use z3coupebuyersguide.com for easy researching.

530i Sports I hear are a little bit cheaper and easier to maintain. I like em because I figure I could get one for $6-$7ish, spend $3-4ish on making it mine and have a nice, reliable $11ish car for road trips. Definitely food for thought. Dunno if they're slow tho

G35's are driven by guidos here, sadly a no-go. They sound so nice too

Another vote for e39 /m5. Pony up though for an example with under 100k on the clock and that has full records. Look for a 2002 or 2003 model, earlier ones have issues.

Another note, I sold my TiAg/Black 2003 e39 m5 with 96k for $20k a year ago.

I love it, but as noted above I've got some concerns. And 20K is a bit too high, knowing that I'll do some maintenance as soon as I get it.

If I could buy an E39 M5, or even an E46 M3, for around $15 and budget $1-2K a year in maintenance? Dunno if that's a laughable amount for an M5 lol

Keep the suggestions rolling in, I'll try and understand what I want lol

[Rodoni]

i was going to say e39 m5 as well..that will be my next car for sure. I've been wanting one for years.

but look into subaru legacy GTs. they dont get the ghey fanboy looks like wrx/STis and theyre just as fast. They even have way nicer interior. Never really knew about them until my best friend picked one up. He's got a few small mods on it and it rips better than my full bolt on e36 m3 did with a fresh motor. Plus its AWD. He picked it up with about 65k on it for 10gs...

[HaloArchive]

The s62 is DIY-able if you are not easily scared off. The biggest engine things to look out for is the VANOS going out and the replacement of that which is time consuming and expensive and, watch out for the dreaded rod-knock which is also time consuming and costly. There is also the requirement for 8qts 10w-60 plus filter which is expensive. Other than that, it is a very reliable and powerful engine. If you can find an e39 m5 shell, I know someone who is selling a complete working driveline for $5k. including harness and all other parts.

EDIT: Ill also vouch for the above suggestion of a Legacy GT 2.5. Awesome car, awesome engine and loads of aftermarket support.

[z31maniac]

If you want an SUV, 02-09 4Runner. Hands down.

[Ray Smoodiver]

I owned a '99 Z3M Coupe for 5 years, should have never sold it, especially for what I sold it for, and since it was resold 6 months later. Sellers remorse much? Yep.

I wanted to erase debt and fund a new business, so I guess you can say my priorities made sense. I'll own another, and never let it go. Especially for the small number made, I want one before they gain in price.

They are peculiar cars, and probably not for everybody. I too was afraid of the subframe issues but never had any problems. It's not as big of an issue really. If it does begin to tear or crack, you get it fixed, then it's set for life. Some complain that they aren't comfortable, but in my eyes they are one of few cars under ~$20k that are true sports cars (aka not a sport sedan). I'm obsessed with shooting brakes though, so that leads to it. Something about automotive shapes that aren't used anymore is so appealing, so sexy, wide hips, dem' curves, etc.

Yeah, I miss that car. It doesn't feel like anything else when driving it either.

Stop being such a tart Devon, the next one you own will have ITBS ;)

[thatphysicsguy]

You're in higher mileage STI or immaculate RSti territory with that price range. My swapped rs was probably the most fun car I owned, easily out performed my s52 touring, and immensely more practical in your province.

http://www.rs25.com/forums/f171/t200...k-smogged.html

wow that rsti is sexy. I wish i could buy it!

[george graves]

Lexus is300?

[DEV0 E30]

I guess I'd say fun overall. But a little bit of practicality too. It won't be used as a DD though, as I don't exactly have parking at my apartment.

If it's fun with a little practicality and you're willing to give up the M suspension, brakes, and engine to save money ... I'd say a Non-M Z3 Coupe is a contender. Since you know about the Z3 + M Coupe buyer's guide sites if you're willing to fly to a car after making sure you're going to buy it before you leave, then do a little preventative maintenance when you get back. Again, to make a Z3 non-M worth it, you'll need to score a manual under the prices of any M's. Then you get a relatively cheap, fun, and unique car with money to use for other things.

... E30 Story ...

Here's an example of the rust, if it makes any difference:

That does make a difference, I hate rust, and am fortunate enough to rarely see it here in the desert. I can understand the predicament more now. I'd suggest maybe after getting a replacement car, fixing the e30 if it's possible to do? If that's the worst of the rust you can save it, but now may not be the best time if time and resources aren't available. With our cars getting older, and more and more getting parted out and crushed many would agree if you can save it, do it. You could retire it from use until you're really able to, or fix it, and sell it. But with that much rust it may not be worth it to sell it.

Stop being such a tart Devon, the next one you own will have ITBS ;)

Haha! I know Smooraysam, it's the feels. Nah, I honestly don't need the S54 or the premium they carry. None of the later model special colors really interest me, except for steel gray, but still would rather have another estoril. We'll see when the day comes around in the future.

[E30 Wagen]

Lexus is300?

I was trying to think of a car that nobody ever seems to suggest, and this is it.

E39s are a first choice for a full-on sport sedan, but I think e60s deserve a look to...

But if it was me I'd be looking hard for a cleanish e24 or e21 to restore, maybe both! Or hunt down an e30 M3 that's about to rot away and save it.

[JasonC]

How about one of those late model GTOs with the LSx in them? They aren't much to look at, but then again what modern car is...

[Rodoni]

E60 is the worst looking 5 series in existence.

I don't think he needs another project considering he's worried about his rust issues on his current vehicle...

[Holland]

I've been lusting after an M Coupe pretty hard, not gonna lie.

[Andy348]

^^ they are just so sexy. And unbelievably rare around here.

But I figure if I'm spending $15K on an M, I'd rather stick to the Canadian area and pick me up an E46 M3.

If you want an SUV, 02-09 4Runner. Hands down.

What is this, bimmerforums? lol I tried to convince my girlfriend to get one because she wanted a reliable SUV, didn't work out. I'll keep that in mind though, I know they never die

The s62 is DIY-able if you are not easily scared off. The biggest engine things to look out for is the VANOS going out and the replacement of that which is time consuming and expensive and, watch out for the dreaded rod-knock which is also time consuming and costly. There is also the requirement for 8qts 10w-60 plus filter which is expensive. Other than that, it is a very reliable and powerful engine. If you can find an e39 m5 shell, I know someone who is selling a complete working driveline for $5k. including harness and all other parts.

EDIT: Ill also vouch for the above suggestion of a Legacy GT 2.5. Awesome car, awesome engine and loads of aftermarket support.

S62 - I really don't mind preventative maintenance, as I rather enjoy it. I'll look into that VANOS issue. I don't mind E30 work because I know if I fuck something up bad enough then I can just swap in a new engine. Swapping in a new S62 sounds damn expensive

Legacy GT is very interesting. I'll need to talk to my brother about that. Those interiors are damn nice as well. AWD is a plus too.

If it's fun with a little practicality and you're willing to give up the M suspension, brakes, and engine to save money ... I'd say a Non-M Z3 Coupe is a contender. Since you know about the Z3 + M Coupe buyer's guide sites if you're willing to fly to a car after making sure you're going to buy it before you leave, then do a little preventative maintenance when you get back. Again, to make a Z3 non-M worth it, you'll need to score a manual under the prices of any M's. Then you get a relatively cheap, fun, and unique car with money to use for other things.

That does make a difference, I hate rust, and am fortunate enough to rarely see it here in the desert. I can understand the predicament more now. I'd suggest maybe after getting a replacement car, fixing the e30 if it's possible to do? If that's the worst of the rust you can save it, but now may not be the best time if time and resources aren't available. With our cars getting older, and more and more getting parted out and crushed many would agree if you can save it, do it. You could retire it from use until you're really able to, or fix it, and sell it. But with that much rust it may not be worth it to sell it.

Z3: I found one on eBay for sale from a Merc dealership, ±15K and I almost bought it right then in there (wouldn't have been financially smart). Then I found a local E46 M3 in good shape for $16. If I would consider 2.8 Z3s I could probably find a decent one around $10 and be fine with it, but I know myself and I need the 3.0. Those are once again closer to $15, which IMO is damn expensive for a non-M coupe.

My original plan was to keep the E30 forever. I bought it for $1600 and spent my savings on it, loving every minute of working on it. It truly brought about my love of cars, and I would love to save it. I don't mind a learning curve either - but I'm not sure if it is saveable. The frame rails have rust on them, and one frame rail is dented in from the PO jacking it up too far down the frame rail. I'd snap a pic but the car is currently 12 hours away.

A part of me just wants to say fuck it and stick with an E30, collect parts, and build up an E30 shell. Cage, seats, stereo, etc. I would love working on it. Yet with a business to run, school to do, and a most likely near-full time job in the summer, I don't want to find myself stressed out because of a car.

How about one of those late model GTOs with the LSx in them? They aren't much to look at, but then again what modern car is...

What do you mean by late model? Like the Pontiac G8 GXP? I think which had the LSxes in them. They're damn pretty too. I will do some research.

E60 is the worst looking 5 series in existence.

I don't think he needs another project considering he's worried about his rust issues on his current vehicle...

Yep, wouldn't touch an E60. There is a blue M5 here parked out front of my apartment on the daily that I drool over though.

I wish I was more decisive, it would probably help everyone!

LS300s - what year? I don't like the 2000ish ones I think, they're just not my style. The new ones aren't bad looking, but I'm not sure about performance. Another one to research.

I've also been recommended an LS400 or whatever from 1990sish with the 2JZ?? motors in them. I hear they can be quite the monsters.

[z31maniac]

What is this, bimmerforums? lol I tried to convince my girlfriend to get one because she wanted a reliable SUV, didn't work out. I'll keep that in mind though, I know they never die

Nope the SUV response for someone who can't make up his mind what he wants.

EAD