£25-30k With Too Many Itches to Scratch...
Discussion
As the forum says really. I've decided to give myself a birthday present in spring time.
I currently have a Honda S2000, which is quite a car to live up to; 240 bhp in such a small footprint which is extremely agile yet very very usable. I've owned it for two years and unfortunately due to an issue with the roof I've begun to get a bit fed up with it. I love it, and hate it all at once. Bugger.
So, anyway, back story aside.. These choices are all just about achievable (some more than others)
911 996 Turbo
Well sorted Cerbera
Well sorted Tuscan
Jag XKR 5.0 SC
Exige S (2005 era)
TT RS
Cayman S
BMW M2
I hate the idea of an M3 or a C63 for some reason.
I am leaning very much in the direction of the TVR's, but wonder how practical they are? Same with the Exige.. I loved taking my S2000 down to Cornwall in the summer with my other half and we are doing the same again this year. The S only got on track once in the 2 years I had it, mainly because I've got a race spec MX-5 which I am racing next season, so get my adrenaline kicks from that.
A tiny amount more money would sit my in an F-type, but they don't seem to be that much faster than my S on paper....
I guess the other option that isn't on the list is sink a few £k into the S2000, have everything sorted and put a blower on it... But that's another prospect altogether!
Comments and alternative suggestions VERY welcome please!
Thanks
Matt
I currently have a Honda S2000, which is quite a car to live up to; 240 bhp in such a small footprint which is extremely agile yet very very usable. I've owned it for two years and unfortunately due to an issue with the roof I've begun to get a bit fed up with it. I love it, and hate it all at once. Bugger.
So, anyway, back story aside.. These choices are all just about achievable (some more than others)
911 996 Turbo
Well sorted Cerbera
Well sorted Tuscan
Jag XKR 5.0 SC
Exige S (2005 era)
TT RS
Cayman S
BMW M2
I hate the idea of an M3 or a C63 for some reason.
I am leaning very much in the direction of the TVR's, but wonder how practical they are? Same with the Exige.. I loved taking my S2000 down to Cornwall in the summer with my other half and we are doing the same again this year. The S only got on track once in the 2 years I had it, mainly because I've got a race spec MX-5 which I am racing next season, so get my adrenaline kicks from that.
A tiny amount more money would sit my in an F-type, but they don't seem to be that much faster than my S on paper....
I guess the other option that isn't on the list is sink a few £k into the S2000, have everything sorted and put a blower on it... But that's another prospect altogether!
Comments and alternative suggestions VERY welcome please!
Thanks
Matt
ShadFx said:
As the forum says really. I've decided to give myself a birthday present in spring time.
Matt
It really depends on whether you want something more performance based or something more GT based. The ideas you have seem to come from all over the spectrum. An exige S is worlds apart from a 911, XKR or M2. If it was me and I wanted a GT car I'd probably take the 911, XKR or Cerbera. But being the whipper snapper I am, I'd take the exige S all day long, even if you forced me to daily it 200 miles in traffic.Matt
Thanks for the feedback so far, appreciate it!
I think some of the issue I am having is that I don't really know what I want..! I know I've enjoyed my S2000, my EP3 I also really enjoyed and have had so many MX-5's I think I may have lost count, including a supercharged one!
I know I want something that's quick, handles nicely when I decide to push on by myself, but is also quite happy doing a long road trip here and there. For big loads and super long journeys I've got an XC70 estate with galactic mileage to pootle in.
Should probably add, I am not quite 29 yet so do have a fair bit of time but, feel some of these cars will have appreciated beyond my wallet in not too many years time.
I'm edging mostly toward the Cerb and Tuscan, if that helps anyone.. My most recent google searches have been for Tuscan alternatives, so that's a start!? Guess that rules out the Jag?
I think some of the issue I am having is that I don't really know what I want..! I know I've enjoyed my S2000, my EP3 I also really enjoyed and have had so many MX-5's I think I may have lost count, including a supercharged one!
I know I want something that's quick, handles nicely when I decide to push on by myself, but is also quite happy doing a long road trip here and there. For big loads and super long journeys I've got an XC70 estate with galactic mileage to pootle in.
Should probably add, I am not quite 29 yet so do have a fair bit of time but, feel some of these cars will have appreciated beyond my wallet in not too many years time.
I'm edging mostly toward the Cerb and Tuscan, if that helps anyone.. My most recent google searches have been for Tuscan alternatives, so that's a start!? Guess that rules out the Jag?
You could add Evora to the list. More Gt than an Exige, less GT than a 911
You could also consider Maserati Grantourismo or an Aston V8V. Both of these are too much GT for me, but are ideal for some people.
Tuscan is interesting, very fast and a pain in the bottom/wallet to live with. I loved my Tuscan but was happy when it became somebody else's problem.
You could also consider Maserati Grantourismo or an Aston V8V. Both of these are too much GT for me, but are ideal for some people.
Tuscan is interesting, very fast and a pain in the bottom/wallet to live with. I loved my Tuscan but was happy when it became somebody else's problem.
Edited by blueg33 on Wednesday 23 January 17:39
ShadFx said:
Thanks for the feedback so far, appreciate it!
I think some of the issue I am having is that I don't really know what I want..! I know I've enjoyed my S2000, my EP3 I also really enjoyed and have had so many MX-5's I think I may have lost count, including a supercharged one!
I know I want something that's quick, handles nicely when I decide to push on by myself, but is also quite happy doing a long road trip here and there. For big loads and super long journeys I've got an XC70 estate with galactic mileage to pootle in.
Should probably add, I am not quite 29 yet so do have a fair bit of time but, feel some of these cars will have appreciated beyond my wallet in not too many years time.
I'm edging mostly toward the Cerb and Tuscan, if that helps anyone.. My most recent google searches have been for Tuscan alternatives, so that's a start!? Guess that rules out the Jag?
MX-5s and Volvos, a man after my own heart! If you are happy taking the s2000 on road trips then get an exige. Otherwise the other half wont appreciate road tripping in an exige! I wouldn't rule out the XKR so soon. That 5.0 SC must sound epic and go absolutely quick! I'd say rule out the cayman, TT and maybe M2, they'll be no were near as exciting as the rest on the list.I think some of the issue I am having is that I don't really know what I want..! I know I've enjoyed my S2000, my EP3 I also really enjoyed and have had so many MX-5's I think I may have lost count, including a supercharged one!
I know I want something that's quick, handles nicely when I decide to push on by myself, but is also quite happy doing a long road trip here and there. For big loads and super long journeys I've got an XC70 estate with galactic mileage to pootle in.
Should probably add, I am not quite 29 yet so do have a fair bit of time but, feel some of these cars will have appreciated beyond my wallet in not too many years time.
I'm edging mostly toward the Cerb and Tuscan, if that helps anyone.. My most recent google searches have been for Tuscan alternatives, so that's a start!? Guess that rules out the Jag?
Quite a variety of cars to choose from there.
The thing with the S2000 is that it feels quite raw. Lots of mechanical noise, very driver focused interior (if a bit basic), and quite an edgy feel to it.
Some of the cars you've mentioned are much more refined than the Honda - the Porsches and Jag in particular.
The Lotus and TVRs still have the "old school" feel to them.
Everything is a compromise unfortunately. Depends on your priorities.
The thing with the S2000 is that it feels quite raw. Lots of mechanical noise, very driver focused interior (if a bit basic), and quite an edgy feel to it.
Some of the cars you've mentioned are much more refined than the Honda - the Porsches and Jag in particular.
The Lotus and TVRs still have the "old school" feel to them.
Everything is a compromise unfortunately. Depends on your priorities.
Have you thought about the TVR Tamora? Probably the closest to your S2000 being a convertible, but lighter and with another 100hp!
Ive had mine 8 years, and it's been great. Keep thinking of selling for a change but can't quite bring myself to do it.
Is it just for a weekend car, not sure if I would want to use any TVR as a daily.?
Ive had mine 8 years, and it's been great. Keep thinking of selling for a change but can't quite bring myself to do it.
Is it just for a weekend car, not sure if I would want to use any TVR as a daily.?
ShadFx said:
...
911 996 Turbo
Well sorted Cerbera
Well sorted Tuscan
Jag XKR 5.0 SC
Exige S (2005 era)
TT RS
Cayman S
BMW M2
...
A tiny amount more money would sit my in an F-type, but they don't seem to be that much faster than my S on paper....
...
Personally, I've never lusted after any Porsche (no idea why - poor person's Ferrari?), and I think the TT looks a bit rubbish. The engine in the XKR is the same as the one in my XFR, and is epic BUT I doubt the XK would be anywhere near as nimble as any of the other cars on your list. I like the idea of either TVR, but if you're getting irritated by bills for your S2k I don't imagine a TVR will give you more reliable motoring - possibly more smiles per gallon. So BMW or Lotus perhaps?911 996 Turbo
Well sorted Cerbera
Well sorted Tuscan
Jag XKR 5.0 SC
Exige S (2005 era)
TT RS
Cayman S
BMW M2
...
A tiny amount more money would sit my in an F-type, but they don't seem to be that much faster than my S on paper....
...
I think the F-type is the best looking car on sale today, and you can get it with the same engine as the XKR (probably not for £30k yet), but its handling seems to get mixed reviews.
I hate to admit how much my XC has grown on me; it carries huge amounts of stuff, tows the race car around, does long trips up and down the country and does all of it without any fussing or fretting whatsoever.
I'll check the Exige S out - I had initially ruled it out as being too hardcore but maybe I just need to try it out on a few back roads and see what's what. Had thought the TVR's may be ever so slightly softer and therefore more likely to coerce the other half in for longer journeys..!
I'll check the Exige S out - I had initially ruled it out as being too hardcore but maybe I just need to try it out on a few back roads and see what's what. Had thought the TVR's may be ever so slightly softer and therefore more likely to coerce the other half in for longer journeys..!
garreth64 said:
Have you thought about the TVR Tamora? Probably the closest to your S2000 being a convertible, but lighter and with another 100hp!
Ive had mine 8 years, and it's been great. Keep thinking of selling for a change but can't quite bring myself to do it.
Is it just for a weekend car, not sure if I would want to use any TVR as a daily.?
Yep - this is more like a weekend car. Sadly, I cannot look at the Tamora and get excited; don't know why.... Just doesn't do it for me and a Griff seems a little too old school, even for my unassisted, unaided taste in cars! Ive had mine 8 years, and it's been great. Keep thinking of selling for a change but can't quite bring myself to do it.
Is it just for a weekend car, not sure if I would want to use any TVR as a daily.?
Jag_luvver said:
Personally, I've never lusted after any Porsche (no idea why - poor person's Ferrari?), and I think the TT looks a bit rubbish. The engine in the XKR is the same as the one in my XFR, and is epic BUT I doubt the XK would be anywhere near as nimble as any of the other cars on your list. I like the idea of either TVR, but if you're getting irritated by bills for your S2k I don't imagine a TVR will give you more reliable motoring - possibly more smiles per gallon. So BMW or Lotus perhaps?
I think the F-type is the best looking car on sale today, and you can get it with the same engine as the XKR (probably not for £30k yet), but its handling seems to get mixed reviews.
It's not the amount the bills have added up to, it's just an irritation really.. I paid top dollar for what was supposed to be a great new hood, but the first one wasn't fitted properly and got marked, the second one hasn't been fitted properly and now leaks.. I think the F-type is the best looking car on sale today, and you can get it with the same engine as the XKR (probably not for £30k yet), but its handling seems to get mixed reviews.
I never keep cars for that long anyhow and I think i am just looking for excuses to try something new, if I am honest! I know TVR ownership can be expensive, but seems if you buy a sorted one, with lots of paperwork to back up all the bits that need replacing have been replaced, they can be solid.
I'd say firstly take your time. It's great fun looking plus the market for some cars is dropping. Secondly you won't know from a test drive or even reviews if you'll gel with your chosen car for the longer term, plus your circumstances may change over time, so i'd say try to get something as depreciation-proof as possible. This will keep in place a healthy fund for changing and trying something else.
If it helps at all my thoughts based on your suggestions (i'm 48 though), son in law has an S2000. Lots of tweaks and very sorted. He'll probably put ITBs on but feels a supercharger will spoil the character. Great car though. A bit firm now but great on track. Largely depreciation-proof.
I had a series 1 exige with a Honda K20 conversion. Bit too extreme to drive much but great on track.
GT-R in budget. I daily'd one for a couple of years. Really liked it. Didn't love it but a really great car. Fairly depreciation-proof
Owned lots of porsches. Fave was a high mileage 997 turbo bought and sold for around £37k so you might find one in budget. Very tough but consumables and servicing are a bit expensive. Low depreciation for the right one that's well kept
Knew i'd be a bit dulled out by normal E9X M3's but bought a supercharged one and really like that. Best sounding car i've owned (lots of mods) and although it isn't the quickest point to point (my daughter's golf R is likely faster) as you can't easily put the power down and it's still a saloon car but an event to drive. Losing little value. Not likely to be sold for a while.
Golf R (mk 6) - mentioned above. Great daily, safe with 4WD - but not in the league you're wanting.
Friend has a 4.5 Cerbera. Labour of love to keep it in good shape. More hassle than i'd want. Very quick. Roll on with the 997 it was only a fraction slower. Fairly safe place to put your money but you'd really have to want one.
Nothing else I own or have owned I think qualifies me to comment on any of your other options. Convertible does add an extra layer to a car though and might extend the length you own it, even though some are a bit compromised in agility but that probably doesn't matter if primarily a road car.
Hope this helps a bit.
If it helps at all my thoughts based on your suggestions (i'm 48 though), son in law has an S2000. Lots of tweaks and very sorted. He'll probably put ITBs on but feels a supercharger will spoil the character. Great car though. A bit firm now but great on track. Largely depreciation-proof.
I had a series 1 exige with a Honda K20 conversion. Bit too extreme to drive much but great on track.
GT-R in budget. I daily'd one for a couple of years. Really liked it. Didn't love it but a really great car. Fairly depreciation-proof
Owned lots of porsches. Fave was a high mileage 997 turbo bought and sold for around £37k so you might find one in budget. Very tough but consumables and servicing are a bit expensive. Low depreciation for the right one that's well kept
Knew i'd be a bit dulled out by normal E9X M3's but bought a supercharged one and really like that. Best sounding car i've owned (lots of mods) and although it isn't the quickest point to point (my daughter's golf R is likely faster) as you can't easily put the power down and it's still a saloon car but an event to drive. Losing little value. Not likely to be sold for a while.
Golf R (mk 6) - mentioned above. Great daily, safe with 4WD - but not in the league you're wanting.
Friend has a 4.5 Cerbera. Labour of love to keep it in good shape. More hassle than i'd want. Very quick. Roll on with the 997 it was only a fraction slower. Fairly safe place to put your money but you'd really have to want one.
Nothing else I own or have owned I think qualifies me to comment on any of your other options. Convertible does add an extra layer to a car though and might extend the length you own it, even though some are a bit compromised in agility but that probably doesn't matter if primarily a road car.
Hope this helps a bit.
I am a massive Cerbera fan but got into Mkiv Supra's and am now paranoid about the TVR reliability and rust and now prices have gone up I think it's a box I'll never tick. I have two Mkiv's which I think are amazingly reliable and not rusting too fast in front of my eyes, I could sell both and get a Cerbera but my (accountant) head is winning over any thoughts of doing so.
They are going to be raw like the S2000, but more of everything, power, grip, noise, but also probably cost worry rust though!
It's a nice problem to have! as you are young perhaps try the ones that will lose the least money then you can flip to another, if you played it right you either find a keeper or the other newer ones you fancy come down to meet you price wise over time.
They are going to be raw like the S2000, but more of everything, power, grip, noise, but also probably cost worry rust though!
It's a nice problem to have! as you are young perhaps try the ones that will lose the least money then you can flip to another, if you played it right you either find a keeper or the other newer ones you fancy come down to meet you price wise over time.
I have been fortunate enough to own some of the cars you have listed.
I currently drive a 2018 M2.
I went from a 2011 manual 911 (997) GTS to a new BMW X5M (dont ask! - it was mind bending, but dropped value faster than a sieve drops liquid, I was also half cut when I did the deal) and then didn't know what to have next.
I did not want an M2 with all the "its not a proper M car" nonsense.
I borrowed the new M5 for a week (decided against it as I would be in the same financial situation I was in with the X5M)
Then I had the BMW M4 Competition for a few days (Whilst it was frighteningly fast, I didn't feel it gave me the sensation of a drivers car as I didn't find all the power wasn't useable on the UK's roads)
The garage then convinced me to drive the M2.
I was not disappointed. Drove it for 10 minutes, turned round, went back to the dealership and ordered one.
In my opinion it really is a great car. Whilst it doesn't have that old school feel of a drivers car, if you can wrap your head around the fact that its modern, in another 15 years it'll be looked back on the same way that we look back on some of the other cars you have listed.
Useable power, rear end loose enough to give the smiles, but controllable enough to look like a driving hero even with a limited amount of talent, great standard spec and personally, I think it looks great in the right colour with the right carbon options.
I currently drive a 2018 M2.
I went from a 2011 manual 911 (997) GTS to a new BMW X5M (dont ask! - it was mind bending, but dropped value faster than a sieve drops liquid, I was also half cut when I did the deal) and then didn't know what to have next.
I did not want an M2 with all the "its not a proper M car" nonsense.
I borrowed the new M5 for a week (decided against it as I would be in the same financial situation I was in with the X5M)
Then I had the BMW M4 Competition for a few days (Whilst it was frighteningly fast, I didn't feel it gave me the sensation of a drivers car as I didn't find all the power wasn't useable on the UK's roads)
The garage then convinced me to drive the M2.
I was not disappointed. Drove it for 10 minutes, turned round, went back to the dealership and ordered one.
In my opinion it really is a great car. Whilst it doesn't have that old school feel of a drivers car, if you can wrap your head around the fact that its modern, in another 15 years it'll be looked back on the same way that we look back on some of the other cars you have listed.
Useable power, rear end loose enough to give the smiles, but controllable enough to look like a driving hero even with a limited amount of talent, great standard spec and personally, I think it looks great in the right colour with the right carbon options.
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