6k, big engined, fast, classy

[Farmer Geddon]

My budget for my next car is up to 6k but hopefully less

I want something fast... Not just quick, but very powerful, able to do safe overtaking very well and leave behind any boy racers tailgating.

I quite like the idea of cars that look a lot more pricey than they are, I.e my friends 6 series, certain mercedes models, the sort of car that with a private plate most people wouldn't know its that old, and de badged perhaps wouldn't expect it to be so fast. It's got to look nice too! After ragging round a type R for some time I'd prefer a more grown up sort of car, that doesn't ride so harshly and has more effortless speed .

Suggestions welcomed if you'd be so kind

Thanks

FG

[Farmer Geddon]

scrubchub said:

I had a CL500 for a couple of years - fits all your criteria a treat and you'll get a good one for your budget. Servicing costs aren't expensive at an independent specialist.

They're only expensive if things go wrong. Make sure the suspension is in good nick, that's where the pain lies. Mine was almost faultless, a really fantastic car. Best I've ever owned, in fact. Looks great too, especially in black.

Too many people are frightened off by scare stories - do your homework, make sure its a good one and you'll be fine.

Edited by scrubchub on Saturday 4th July 23:48

I agree, I parked next to a black one at silverstone yesterday and it really looked the part - it's probably my favourite choice but I've definitely been put off by horror stories.

Perhaps if I found a good one I'm sure the seller wouldn't mind me getting someone to inspect the suspension - it's not like they're selling easily, been watching one that's been for sale for weeks now

[Farmer Geddon]

sealtt said:

Don't think you are going to get classy with these requirements unless you are looking for a geezer type 'real classy mate'.

There's a whiff of that about certain cars I've thought about so far, need to choose very carefully!

[Farmer Geddon]

billzeebub said:

Jag XJR/XKR

Really like the XKR but it's hard to find one in budget and I'm not sure that's a positive sign, perhaps for a decent one id need a little more cash

[Farmer Geddon]

Kolbenkopp said:

W126, A8 D2 or E38. No private plate please.

I'm very keen on an old pillarless coupe merc... SEC's catch my eye every time I see one! E38's are also nice, not as keen though. Thanks for the suggestions! Haven't really thought about older mercs I'll have to have a look

[Farmer Geddon]

TheAngryDog said:

Chances are it could be a bit leggy / ropey at that price range.

E55 AMG?

http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2015...

I agree it would be hard to find a decent one - thought about these or a B10 but i think bigger budget needed. Did also think about a nice 540

That's a lot of car for the money with the E55!! Not sure if I like them though

[Farmer Geddon]

Thanks for the suggestions and links guys

There's an awful lot to think about here

Still quite keen on a Mercedes of some kind, the CLK looks like a good bet!

I like the Lexus suggestions too but I reckon an LS would be a bit too cumbersome day to day

Anyone know any more about the Subaru Legacy 3.0 saloons? There's some nice ones for around half my budget so it has made me think a bit, I'm sure 280bhp would be enough for a 3k saving.

I've been having thoughts about getting something cheaper and then getting a little smart roadster or something to go with it

As you can probably tell I'm terribly indecisive but I'm sure once my heart is set on something it'll be a whole lot easier

[Farmer Geddon]

I kind of like that Passat! Very under stated.

Thanks for the suggestions guys. After some test driving I ended up impulse buying a 540! I'm very happy so far, it sounds very grumbly and certainly put a smile on my face on the drive home. It wasn't anywhere near the budget price so I'm going to refresh a few bits, bushes and the like.

I'll try and post pics soon