What car next?

[RobPaulson]

Whelp, it's time to ditch the buick. I'm looking into a couple different cars and this is what i've got it narrowed down to, looking for some input based on needs etc.

2012-2013 370Z
2013 genesis coupe (3.8)
2012 WRX STI

One seemingly large hurdle i did not anticipate was availability. . . yes I know those models with the packages I want (6mt / preferably no nav/etc) are hard to come by, but I recently found out there are NO subaru dealerships in my area. . . (the one that shows up on gmaps is closed down meow). There is quite a large nissan dealership in town and hyundai, so both of those can be ordered rather easily (although there is no GC in the 3.8 locally).

So there really is no where local to get the car, but without a dealership in the area how will i get it serviced via warranty etc? Doesnt that mess need to be done at a dealership? I really love the sti and its at the top of my list, but where the heck am i going to get this thing from, let alone fixed if/when something goes wrong? Pretty nervous to blindly go for the mechanic search in a new town...

Also, I'd like to get a dog soon as well, so it'd really be nice to have something pet friendly... which none of these cars seem to be. So any advice from pet owners? Seat covers etc realistic without being tasteless and annoying?

[Bubba1]

Okay, lotsa stuff here. None of the choices are bad, so there's no right or wrong answer.

First, you are not required to have a dealer maintain your car in order to keep the warranty valid. As long as you keep up with their maintenance schedule, use approved parts, and not do any mods that would void the warranty, you should be fine.

Second, not having a nearby dealer becomes significant if you have a warranty/recall issue that requires the dealer to fix it. Recalls do happen, though for these cars, not as much as others. But if it does happen, then you must deal with the extra time/hassle getting the car to/from the closest dealership, And if it's a big repair, you might need to work out a loaner or rent a car.

Next, I have 2 beagles, and I can tell you a sedan/SUV are far easier to transport dogs than a sports car. Your list has 2 sports cars and one sedan. Some states require the pets to be harnassed in the car or crated. so the sedan makes it easier to do either, plus carry a passenger.

As far as whether a sports car or sedan makes a better DD. The sedan allows you to carry passengers,pet and luggage. Not as easy to do all three in a sports car.

For what to put down on the seats? Depends on the dog. I'd suggest going with leather seats as in most cases they're more durable and the dog hair is easier to remove than from fabric. I usually just throw down an old sheet or a few towels on the seats and it works fine. And when not in use, fold up and put in the trunk out of sight. Another advantage to a sedan.

If it were me, and this was my only vehicle, Id go for a sedan over sports car. But if it's a second car, it would depend on my other car. For example, if my other car was a Buick sedan, I'd go for the sports car. If I had a sports car, I'd go for something a little more practical.

Hope that helps.

[frapjap]

I see a common theme here- all RWD and pretty new. Are you opposed to a Mazdaspeed 3? Its quick, handles well, and has plenty of space.

How about a Camaro SS convertible? Plenty of power, very good handling, and fits doggies without any issue. Plus, you live in FL now. A 'vert would e a great investment and your dog will thank you later! Heck, even a V6 with the 300hp and RS package to handle would be a good option.

[RobPaulson]

So. . . nearest subaru dealership is almost 3 hours away. Ain't that just a kick in the pants, of course I want the car that is nearly impossible to get in this area of the country.

EDIT: DERP! Found a dealership 1.5hrs away. Thats reasonable enough, I'm totally taking a drive this weekend after giving them a call . . . they have a 08 STI, it'd sure be nice to not have to buy a BRAND new car.
http://www.leeautomotive.com/used/Subar ... 2faa8e.htm

I'm not opposed to keeping my buick but i think its about time for it to really start falling apart and I don't want the headache. It has like 130k on it.

Not interested in mazdas, nothing against them, just don't dig the styling. Plus i feel like there are a ton of them in this area. . . i like a more uncommon car.

[numbnuts240]

just get a leaf you flipping hippie.

[RobPaulson]

WTF is a leaf?

[Rex]

Does it have to be new?

Dogs willing ride in either the SC400 or the Audi wagon.

What's your $$ budget?

[RobPaulson]

Does it have to be new?

Dogs willing ride in either the SC400 or the Audi wagon.

What's your $$ budget?

Only has to be NEW if its the hyundai. I am looking at more used Z's and sti's.

Looking for around 30k.

[Heavy]

Brooo it runs on sunflower seeds and emits potpouri scented exhaust fumes, its eco friendly man...


why spend 30k? nothing down there for say 10?

[Bubba1]

WTF is a leaf?

A car that might not make it to that Subie dealer on a single charge if you run its a/c....

[RobPaulson]

why spend 30k? nothing down there for say 10?

because i can i got me a promotion already since i been down here, time to have some fun

A car that might not make it to that Subie dealer on a single charge if you run its a/c....

[Rex]

I like what you're looking at, but (as I'm sure others have said) be aware of used STi/WRX's as some owners abuse them. I'm a fan of the 370, but you'll have no (real) space to carry anything. I don't know anything about the Hyundia.

Do a CPO search for Infiniti FX's, you can get a nice (somewhat sporty) car with decent space for ~$30k, with plenty of (new car like) warranty.

[numbnuts240]

you will fit in better with them good 'ol boys down there, have a bad a** ride, and you'll be doing it for murricah.

[bigbadberry3]

The extra 5 grand for the Sti not worth it, get the wrx.

[nissangirl74]

Dog won't be happy squashed in a two-seater, especially if you are planning on getting a dog of any size. Go for the sedan. Many more options, especially if you make friends!

[cellardoorv]

I have this really nifty Alti Coupe if you want it... it's 6MT. Just sayin'.

[Mr1der]

Mustang GT 5.0

because overpaying for less of a car just isn't befitting.