A bit of flash for not much cash - what car

[gazza5]

First date I had with my wife I had a red rover 1.4 impression (special edition). Funnily enough her first car was a rover 200 purple colour (R reg I think). It was a talking point that we had both had similar cars and started a conversation.

After a couple of dates the back seats were used in my Rover, she had a citroen c2 (no way could we get in them back seats!). So for me I would probably rule out supermini's. I am not saying rush out and buy a rover 25! It will not get you laid in this day and age where you are just looking for fumbles and fun. but neither will a old man jags!

For me - something like a A3, TT, bmw 3 series coupe - fit the bill of not too flash but guy has a bit of money. Some women like the pop out screens you get from halfords, I know in my mates renault clio in 99 that was a huge thing! Maybe not now though.

350z for me is a good shout - although not sure on 15 - 20k in one.

With the budget you have to physically purchase a car is it worth while thinking outside the box with a alfa brera, clk (nice looking car - bit old man?) Toyota celica should be reliable, volvo c30? Mazda RX8 (personally my favourite).

Or wait two months so you have saved a bit more of your 2-3k disposable income you have a month and get something worth £8k.

I think it depends really what type of women you are after - if just getting your leg over after chatting someone up in the pub then they won't care what car your in.

If your going on dates and picking her up before said date then something a bit better might be needed - but tbh most women probably would not care. My wife didn't, I am sure countless number of other people on here had crap cars and are still with that person, or pulled number of women.

Having your own place is the biggest turn on for most women these days (how many under 30's still live with mum and dad?) - so you have that base covered.

[Alex_225]

chrisb92 said:

It's all subjective. Personally, I'd be embarrassed driving a 13 year old E Class and turning up to take a girl out. It just looks like you're trying too hard to appear rich.
Having said that, age matters. I'm 24, so would not look right me driving an old E Class. When I had a similar budget I was 21 and bought a MK 5 Golf 1.6 fsi, but it had decent alloys, 3 door and pretty nice interior compared to other cars of that age.

Again personally I'm quite comfortable driving a 13 year old E320 and I'd take it over a whatever hatch back is available for the same money. Not because I think it looks like it costs more, but because its a damn good car which serves a purpose. If I meet a woman and she's not impressed with it, well she's clearly pretty shallow but I suspect it's nondescript enough that most women wouldn't really care. Also, if she's that shallow that a tidy older car puts her off then she won't be welcome for a drive in the CLS63 on the driveway at home! haha

[V12biTurbo]

With that much spare cash I'd be leasing something.

Range Rover Evoque, Q7, BMW 4 coupe, S3 Saloon

Premium badge and a 16 plate, job done. And they'll be nicer to drive every day than most of the oldies suggested, won't be a constant source of let down like a Range Rover.

[ZX10R NIN]

If you don't mind the fuel bills then a BMW X5 4.6iS is a pretty decent car.




http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2016...

I'd expect to pay around 3.5-4k for this one.
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/BMW-X5-4-6is-LPG-/252502...

[CX53]

[Ali_T]

PhilThePower said:

The Alfas really really appeal. Need to do a bit of research in to the reliability as some say it's a myth they're all hideously unreliable and others say it's completely true! I do like the GT like the one posted, but I'd love a fully sorted 156, not sure they have the same allure for the ladies though!

GT is like a 156/147 greatest hits. Takes the best bits of each in an, arguably, prettier body. Better built as well but do be aware that they have the same attitude to suspension components as the 156/147 which is, to say, they are disposable, so listen for clunks. They're not expensive to replace, just a bit of a pain because instead of replacing bushes you need to replace wishbones. It's an Alfa thing. Engines are bloody well sorted. The Busso had been around for over 30 years by the time the GT came along so it was pretty much bomb proof. Just check for rust underneath and make sure anything electrical is still working.

[Camoradi]

PhilThePower said:

The Alfas really really appeal. Need to do a bit of research in to the reliability as some say it's a myth they're all hideously unreliable and others say it's completely true! I do like the GT like the one posted, but I'd love a fully sorted 156, not sure they have the same allure for the ladies though!

I've spent the last 12 years in 2 Alfa 156s and they gave very few issues. For your criteria I'd go for a 159 Saloon (some in your budget) most people have no idea what they are like but assume they are classy as they give that feel when sitting in one.

something like...



If you have any change buy a Labrador puppy and a bunch of flowers.

[Matt_N]

PhilThePower said:

Thanks for the suggestions!

I actually like every single suggestion bar the MX5 and 540 touring, which are both great, but perhaps not for this situation.

Ones I particularly like and am currently looking in to and searching on eBay:

S Class
350z, totally forgot about that,
Audi TT
3, 5 and 6 Series
Alfa suggestion was brilliant, didn't even give them a thought. Always wanted a red 156 with the big rear spoiler.
CLK

Z4's look nice but I think the ride might be a bit harsh, as I do a lot of miles.

Don't you already have a 645?

[PhilThePower]

inbetweeners does spring to mind!!

Thanks for the other suggestions.

The 159's look gorgeous. I could live with sorting suspension out when needed as long as it isn't breaking down every 5 mins so that's encouraging.

The 645 is shared with my now ex, its on finance in her name so she's just going to take over the full payments and keep it. I do like the car a lot but would rather not have a convertible either really.

[SuperchargedVR6]

I never would have thought it, but one of these has proven to be a major flange magnet for me:

[PhilThePower]

ZX10R NIN said:

In my biased opinion I don't think you can go far wrong with a CLK I've had a good few of them depending on your mileage then you have a few options the CLK270cdi is a good choice if you do a fair few miles.

The 240/280/320 (the 2005 facelift models are the ones to look for) are good swift here are a few options or you could go for a CLS.

2005 CLK280 Sport 79k
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2016...

2005 CLK240 Avantgarde 67k
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2016...

2005 CLK320 Avantgarde 68k
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2016...

2005 CLK270 Avantgarde 95k
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2016...

2005 CLK220 Avantgarde 70k
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2016...

Edited by ZX10R NIN on Monday 22 August 01:51

Sorry I missed this post before!

They do look pretty smart actually! I like the one in silver with tinted windows, wheels are good too.

Definitely a contender. A bit more of a cruiser which would be nice for eating up the miles.

[B.J.W]

This cost me 4k a few weeks ago. 1998 Jaguar XJR. Plenty of flash, but with added bonus of a V8 Supercharger under the bonnet. The car suits the perfect gent or the absolute bounder, and when you turn up late for your date, you can simply blame it on the fact that you had to stop to fuel the jaaaaaaag. Your date's mother will likely want to sleep with you too, whilst her Father, whilst disapproving of you, will begrudgingly admire your choice of car and bemoan the fact that they don't build like that anymore. Every journey will be an event, and you will stand out amongst a sea of grey and white. A 2 owner BMW 318i might be the safe bet, but women prefer a rogue, so why not drive the automotive equivalent

[anonymous-user]

chrisb92 said:

Alex_225 said:

Yes and no, I mean an S class could be a great waft wagon if it's a tidy one and wears it's miles well. Ultimately though it could be a money pit and it could looks utterly naff if it's shonky.

I drive a 2003 E320 as my day to day car, I'm not saying it's a flash motor but it's very tidy and very smart. I wouldn't have an issue picking up a lady chum in it as I think it's smart but not trying too hard.

Do people actually buy cars to impress women? I have no objection in someone driving an old Boxster, fun car I'm sure but not impressive.

Thing if if you spend £3k or £90k, it doesn't necessarily mean you won't look a like a muppet in the car if you're trying to impress other people in it.

It's all subjective. Personally, I'd be embarrassed driving a 13 year old E Class and turning up to take a girl out. It just looks like you're trying too hard to appear rich.
Having said that, age matters. I'm 24, so would not look right me driving an old E Class. When I had a similar budget I was 21 and bought a MK 5 Golf 1.6 fsi, but it had decent alloys, 3 door and pretty nice interior compared to other cars of that age.

Yet you would turn up in a Golf / Leon/ A3 / Fabia?! (Diesel).

Much rather the E-Class.

Edited by Trexthedinosaur on Monday 22 August 15:29

[cat with a hat]

Farmer Geddon said:

Something like this, but probably not from Luton...



330i https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/262583914955

It's a nice car to drive, looks more expensive than it is, reliable, etc etc

CX53 said:

SuperchargedVR6 said:

I never would have thought it, but one of these has proven to be a major flange magnet for me:

These guys are all spot on.

I pissed myself laughing at the guy that thought an mx5 was a magnet. Although what can you expect from car forum full of IT professionals!

[anonymous-user]

I have a e46 330ci which I have received nothing but positive comments from all ages and genders. Id suggest going for one of those. Smart looking exterior and interior wise. It's the generation they got right. Sport facelift so you get all the goodies and the revised looks. Great drive and great looks, the only negative thing I've heard is that it looks a bit chavy from one person, and they were talking about one which had black wheels and a large spoiler (was a club sport).

A winning formula is medium to small sized car. 2 seats or 2+2. No modifications. Sporty looks but a relatively comfortable ride.

You won't go wrong with a 350z or the e46 330ci.

Also to the gent who posted his convertible e46, they are nice if you're a middle aged man. Sticking a soft top on a saloon based car never works. Also the stealth look is anything but stealthy. However you obviously like it so it doesn't matter

Edited by anonymous-user on Monday 22 August 15:33

[otolith]

Something fundamentally bland, respectable and unremarkable like a Golf isn't going to attract anyone - but it's not going to put anyone off either.

[SturdyHSV]

As the more sensible amongst us have pointed out, there are some easy traps to fall into.

You have to stop thinking of it like you care about cars. The cars are, as has been said, a manifestation of money to these people, same as watches.

Anything big / bargey will not make you look like a rich person, as if you were rich you'd have bought a newer vehicle, or even if they assume it is expensive (a Rolls Royce) you'll then be assumed to be borrowing Dad's car.

OP, you may need to decide what brand you wish to insert yourself into, if you're after teenagers, then it'll need to be something 'scene' related, so a Scirocco lowered onto large shiny wheels. If you want similar aged clunge, then it's all about the financed Germans, BMW or Audi really, as these are advertised as the 'thrusting executive' options, only a few Mercs don't still seem a bit Dad / Taxi.

Don't get something loud or with spoilers / stickers (see teenager criteria), you want something that appears expensive but still believable.

Although Z4 is an interesting shout, I'm not 100% convinced as I don't think women are overly aware of them, and they're very phallic. As much as I hate to say it, a new enough TT is suitably androgynous that your newly hairless physique and skin tight trousers will fit in well. Get it in white, obviously. SLK? Nah, I don't think so, if you're going for a sportscar look, TT communicates money without being an enthusiast, which is the last thing you want to look like.

If avoiding the sportscar route (i.e. you don't want a TT) I'd say Audi A5 is about as big as you'd dare go, I'd be concerned the A3 isn't flashy enough, and an A4 says Dad' again.

I find myself leaning towards an E92 as was mentioned early on. Nice example, in white (obviously) with some slightly shiny wheels, maybe lowered a tiny bit, and jobs a good'un.

TT may still stand you in better stead though, because they'd probably want one too.

Remember, whatever you do, don't let them think for even a second that you care about cars in any way other than as a display of wealth. This is Audi's MO in particular.

As a meandering conclusion, I'd say make sure you have an iPhone and a white Audi.

I've just looked, turns out you can't afford the model of TT you need, as they'll know the original shape isn't the expensive one.

Looks like this is your only option, let's hope the 'lumpy engine' is an easy fix

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/152213566030

Also, get an auto if possible, as you need the other hand free for instagram, and a manual is either because you can't afford an auto, or you're an 'enthusiast', which will dry crotches at a thousand paces.

If on the other hand you want to attract boys and men, get the loudest V8 you can and watch them swarm around you

Edited by SturdyHSV on Monday 22 August 15:46

[loskie]

it would possibly be more of a sure thing if the OP just spent his cash on an escort.

Not a Ford one.

[ChilliWhizz]

Cooking lessons.... being able to cook something spectacular (and knowing what her preferred tipple is) will pretty much guarantee she'll be getting her kit off before the evening ends... 3k-5k on an old motor won't..(particularly if based on some of the suggestions on here ) If she has any modicum of savvy (and some of them do) she'll see your 3k-5k shed for what it is... buy a sensible/not expensive motor but spends lots on stuff like food, wine, music, maybe even theater if she's a shade on the intelligent side.... (which most of them aren't)

HTH... Chilli

[simonrockman]

RX-8