£2.5K-182, RX8, Integra Type-R, Accord Type-R, Civic Type-R?

[TheArchitect]

I'm going to be shopping soon for a replacement once the Golf has done its duty and got me to Austria and back and I fancy something fun to drive as I only have a 2 mile commute and can now afford track days and insurance on more fun stuff.

I've shopped around and narrowed the list down but wasn't sure what other people could suggest or there experiences on the above?

Reasons for the above are;
Sensible Insurance for me
Tyres wont be destroyed after a trackday or 2 as they're fairly light
Can be maintained by myself 90% of the time
Wont ruin me if it get binned

[wheedler]

I'll be first and say that the mx5 is probably your best bet

[Bear Phils]

The Integra and civic will be at the bottom end of their markets. I would lean towards the accord or Clio myself.

[wemorgan]

RWD gets my vote for track days. Which only leaves the RX8 off your list.
They do look excellent VFM these days.

MX5 are nice track cars - but I'd advise adding at least a 1/2 roll cage, which isn't as necessary for the coupe options like RX8.

[wilbo83]

Not the RX8 unless you have a pot of cash incase of a rebuild. RX8's also drink petrol like its going out of fashion. My vote would go with the DC2 or 182.

[r1ch]

I'd avoid Tegs and Civic type r's at that budget. I think for fun to drive you've got to pick the Clio over the Accord. So yeah, go for the 182/172.

[timtoo2]

Smart Roadster? leaky problems sometimes but offset by the cheapness to run?

[Wolfie660]

Go for the ATR, get your self over on to the forum HERE

[C2james]

at that price range id go for a 182 myself.

[Kong]

Don't get an RX8 for a 2 mile commute, those engine hate short journeys. All of the other cars you list are a good choice, I'd go with the Civic personally.

[300bhp/ton]

The ITR is probably the best of the bunch, but the RX-8 does appeal. But remember the RX-8 will use more fuel and doesn't really like short journeys where it doesn't get chance to warm up.

The others I'd say no too.

[greggy50]

RX8 too risky and the integra will be a dog at this money...

I would say either the 182 or if you need more space the accord type r

[wemorgan]

Regardless of which car you buy - cycle the 2 miles to work You and your car will benefit.

[TheArchitect]

wemorgan said:

Regardless of which car you buy - cycle the 2 miles to work You and your car will benefit.

I certainly will be 75% of the time I agree driving is silly for such a short commute that'll ruin most engines. Ive wimped out over the last few weeks due to the weather and workload.

[300bhp/ton]

Curious, but all those saying no to the ITR based on budget. Exactly how much do you think you have to pay??

[Grovsie26]

300bhp/ton said:

The others I'd say no too.

Why's that then?

The ATR is also an excellent drive, and has pretty much the same ethos as the ITR.

[swansea v6]

FTO mivec??

[300bhp/ton]

Grovsie26 said:

Why's that then?

The ATR is also an excellent drive, and has pretty much the same ethos as the ITR.

I do like the ATR but unless you need a larger family car I see no reason at all to have one over a DC2. I also cannot forgive Honda for not offering it in white either, despite all the marketing hype with white ones.

For this money I'd also consider a Rover 200 BRM. Very similar to the ITR to drive and makes a good track car too on a cheaper budget. Not as raw, more a GT take on a similar idea.

[obob]

300bhp/ton said:

Curious, but all those saying no to the ITR based on budget. Exactly how much do you think you have to pay??

4k at least for one that's not rusty.

[Grovsie26]

Id of thought you'd get a better ATR for the money, than a ITR, the teg would be a bit of a nail.