What car y0...MPS vs R32 vs ST vs Type R

[Jazz]

So my old German barge (350bhp S2) has been shipped off to Devon where an Audi techy will probably break her for her pricey parts.

Currently running my old Octavia vRS daily hack, but after the summer I'll probably look at getting a new(ish) car, budget of about £13k.

I want something fun, modern and ok on fuel- I've had a 18mpg Subaru and a 12mpg GTO so I'm done with gaz-guzzler tanks, I want something I can drive into Europe, do a few laps of the Ring, take a detour to the Stelvio pass and drive back in reasonbale comfort. Ideally want to buy from a dealer as well, want dealer facilites and aftersales backup.

Got a few ideas floating in my mind now so just want opinions on what you'd go for. Traditionally I've been a jap man but I'm all ears right now.

Choices I'm thinking about right now..

1) Mazda 3 MPS, 2.3 Turbo 256bhp

http://www.autos.ca/galleries/2010/images/mazda/2010_mazdaspeed3/2010-mazda-mazdaspeed3_pw-018-4123.jpg

2) Golf R32 DSG, 3.2 V6 247bhp

http://www.vwvortex.com/artman/uploads/r32front.jpg

3) Focus ST, 2.5 Turbo 225bhp

http://www.caradvice.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2007/11/ford_focus_st_08_03.jpg

4) Honda Civic Type R, 2.0 VTEC 198bhp

http://cdn.images.pistonheads.com/aimg/3519/3519892-2.jpg



Just toying with ideas at the moment, can't pinpoint something I really want tbh.

And anyway, I think we were overdue another what car thread :homme:

Cool story bro.. suggestions away/

[GolfJay]

I really want to say the R32 but the Mazda looks amazing!!

[VTRelite]

Out of those, the Mazda.

Very few on the road compared to the others

[JAGVTS]

Mazda! Or an astra VXR :D

[Ryanoo]

That Mazda is a turn on. Plus you're japboy?

[Jazz]

Poll is now up bitches :)

[kev250]

I would pick the mazda. Do they come in 2 door?

[mattknight1984]

What happened to the Audi? Didn't last long.

New Audi s3? TT rs?

[Lionsden]

I really want to say the R32 but the Mazda looks amazing!!

+1...it's the only one which stands out to me!!!!

[GolfJay]

Civic is "Just another Type R"
Focus ST, plenty of them on the road.
Golf R32 i'm biased so nevermind.
Mazda for me!

[sam_16v]

i would pick the mazda and its probally the most eco but fun when you need it to be i think a 3.2 golf will probally be expensive to run plus imo the mazda looks the best out of them :y:

[Tontsy]

out of those i go for the MPS.

in the same region, mk2 Leon Cupra or Cupra R! id much rather take the LCR over anything in this list.

[MiniGibbo]

Golf...

[Jazz]

What happened to the Audi? Didn't last long.

New Audi s3? TT rs?

Didn't last long, had a shopping list of niggles and I was chucking money at it so I thought feck it, enough old cars.

TTRS would be a lovely but a bit out of my price range. S3 nice but for this price I won't get a newish one like the others.

LCR crossed my mind as well, as did the RS Megane (surprisingly lol). But for whatever reason I don't see myself in either of those, can't say why.

The Mazda has really tickled my fancy right now, plus they remap to around 300bhp. Massive tuning scene for them in the USA, where they're called the Mazdaspeed 3.

[Frankay]

MPS all day everyday, always had a soft spot for these.

[brianS]

Those mazdas are common here. They look nice on the outside. Inside however is very jap with the trim and plastics.

[Jazz]

The Mazda's engine note is a little dull though... the Focus has a lovely 5-cylinder burble, the Golf has a howling V6 and the Honda has a screaming N/A vtec.


Also I love the interior and quality of the Golf.. need a few test drives tbh.

[SnakeVTR]

For looks the mazda is the best IMO, but for engine sound the R32's are nice, they dont look half bad either :y:

[Mr_X]

Jazz, you must change cars more times than underpants! lol.

I want to say the golf but you will see low 20's mpg, the focus is a good call, a friend had one and it seemed capable.

No idea about the mps but i like it.

[Ashleyp]

ST for me mate. I like them, dislike the 25mph though, but I'm sure you've owned less economic cars!

that shape civic is gash. EP3 or GTF IMO.
Mazda looks horrible too, I know nothing about them though - could be awesome.
Golf - Love them, but the weight is the killer.

Hatchback scoob? Not sure what dollar they go for / specs, but i think they look cool

[Jazz]

Snake- yup the R32 sounds sexual.

Mr X- I know it's an incurable disease unfortunately. Thinking I might finance the next one so I'm locked on for 4 years whether I like it or not, to stop me changing..

[Jazz]

ST for me mate. I like them, dislike the 25mph though, but I'm sure you've owned less economic cars!

that shape civic is gash. EP3 or GTF IMO.
Mazda looks horrible too, I know nothing about them though - could be awesome.
Golf - Love them, but the weight is the killer.

Hatchback scoob? Not sure what dollar they go for / specs, but i think they look cool

25mpg is fine compared to what ive had Ash lol.. EP3 had the fully independent rear suspension so handles better, new one had loads more toys..

Thought about hatch scoob but they don't do it for me like the old saloons, plus running costs stink.

Hmm..

[Ashleyp]

25mpg is fine compared to what ive had Ash lol.. EP3 had the fully independent rear suspension so handles better, new one had loads more toys..

Thought about hatch scoob but they don't do it for me like the old saloons, plus running costs stink.

Hmm..

Secretly, you want to sack off the JC and come to the German side? Go on... Admit it :P

haha, out of those choices the ST still wins for me.

DC5?
Audi A4 / S4? you've just got rid of an Audi so assuming you don't want to hop straight into another?
M3? (had to make a generic beemer post, sorry)

[TomT]

R32 for the soundtrack and the awesome box.

Wouldn't mind an ST though.

FN2's are for homos.

[Gandi699]

Cant really put the FN2 civic in the same class as the other 3. As much as I like the R32 and ST, the MPS does it for me as no one really expects it to be quick

[Jazz]

Would love an E46 M3 Ash but I'd rather get something newer with lower running costs for a change! Long trips to Europe etc, M3 would leave me broke.

I liked the Type R because of its tough engine, plus the futuristic cabin and decent gear change, but true it is outgunned compared to the others.

[Nik_L]

E90 330i can be had well within budget.

[devilsadvocate]

Civics are all ugly in my opinion.

ST looks huge for some reason, not quite sure why.

I would have a VW over a Mazda.

[Jamie]

Although I don't know you in person, I've known you for a while on the interwebs and seen the sort of cars you go for and read some of your reviews on PT,

I can see you owning 2 of those cars, and it's both japs.

Mazda or the Type R is what I see you in Jazz.

Mazda because it looks awesome and is different and will be quick.

Type R because it's what you know and will bwaaaarrppppp and handle well.

All are good choices but I don't really see where the Type R comes from because the others are good for tuning and after abit of fettling the Type R would need a SC to compete.

R32 for me or GTi. I've owned an ST as you know was 300bhp in the end and it was fast, handling was good ect but I wouldn't mind a Golf myself.

[rushy_23]

I read the MPS is a bit of a barge, previous model R32 seemed tame in standard form and not keen on the new CTR (never been in one or driven one though).

Cant believe Im saying this but I'd probably choose the ST!

[Jonny52002]

I'd go for the MPS looks a lot better then the rest, the Golf and Focus area bit bland and the civic is plain ugly.

[leeroybrown]

MPS does it for me like.

Get that BBR conversion and your laughing

[Tommo87]

What about the JDM Type-R FD2, they have dropped just roughly into price range now.
http://i621.photobucket.com/albums/tt299/Tommo87_2009/Hondas/908afad1.jpg
http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/3975944.htm

But out of your list the 3 MPS would be my choice with one of the BBR kits on just to keep warranty.

[Jamie]

That said, the MPS only in that shape not the lame ass looking previous one, they look dead smart in white with big exhausts lol!

Interior is gash though.

ST will be the best all rounder out of them IMO.

But I'd still like to try the Golf, as I've had an ST, not sure if I could part with good money for a Mazda.., but if I did it would be that.

[dondan]

I'd find it hard to not choose the golf, but I think I'd be going for the mazda despite its more doors.

[0rang3peel]

ST or the Golf R32 imo

[craig180]

Been looking at the 3 MPS myself recently, but the only thing putting me off is the £405 a year tax

Also looked at the 6 MPS. Same engine but on the linfer 4x4 chassis. Again big scene following in the states.

The price of the 6 seems to be better than the 3 as well

[baker556]

Been looking at the 3 MPS myself recently, but the only thing putting me off is the £405 a year tax

Also looked at the 6 MPS. Same engine but on the linfer 4x4 chassis. Again big scene following in the states.

The price of the 6 seems to be better than the 3 as well

Tax is very off putting!

The 6mps apparently only gives out around 20-23mpg because of the extra weight and awd.

Op get the mazda have you heard them with an exhaust :p

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gp-wuaF9K8Q

Good for 300bhp and launch control!

[rey]

Out of your list it would be the ST.

Not a fan of FN2's, R32's sound nice but don't really set the world alight unless 'charged, and MPS looks hideous, I would have to put a bag on my head, irrespective of the performance.

So yeah, ST for me. But I'd probably get an E46 M3, amazing machines, although 22mpg would sting a bit.

[Proffitt]

The Mazda looks lovely but it has to be the R32 for me.

Can not beat the R32 noise :drool:

[baker556]

Out of your list it would be the ST.

Not a fan of FN2's, R32's sound nice but don't really set the world alight unless 'charged, and MPS looks hideous, I would have to put a bag on my head, irrespective of the performance.

So yeah, ST for me. But I'd probably get an E46 M3, amazing machines, although 22mpg would sting a bit.

Agreed M3 would be my choice.

[Proffitt]

http://youtu.be/fU__vfc59go

That is all :A:

[Keefo]

ST for me mate. I like them, dislike the 25mph though, but I'm sure you've owned less economic cars!


Fuck i WISH I could get 25mpg in mine haha
All I see is 20, constant town driving.

I say the ST too, but thats obvious why :-p

the MPS is a damn nice looking car though, but the sound's the R32's give off are just pure porn

[craig180]

The Mazda looks lovely but it has to be the R32 for me.

Can not beat the R32 noise :drool:

Take it you've never heard an MPS with decent exhaust?

[Jamie]

Thing with the R32 is they aren't that quick from what I have seen...

They sound amazing, and I'd definitely have one, but it would be for the noise!

Can they be made quick without TC/SC?

[Proffitt]

Take it you've never heard an MPS with decent exhaust?

Nope, never.

I shall youtube it in a min :)

[rey]

Take it you've never heard an MPS with decent exhaust?

Irregardless, the MPS is about as good looking as blue waffle.

[BBM]

Buy an FD2 Type R!

or a civic with a supercharger :)

[blackie_2k5]

not read thread..but out of those it would have to be an st

not that im a massive fan..but i dont like the mazda..and that and the ST are the only cars with relatively good tuning prospects..without having to spend FUCK loads of money

[craig180]

Irregardless, the MPS is about as good looking as blue waffle.

I'll be honest, I prefer the earlier, understated versions:

http://www.virginmedia.com/images/mazda3-mps-400x300.jpg

[Mochachino]

Mazda. Definatly dont get the Civic.

[moxy89]

Dont get focus ST, they look pap against a RS so dull and boring... MPS are for winner

[ClaytonJones]

Go for the R32, my brother has one and they are great cars.

Test drive one and listen to the V6 and your mind will be made up, there is no better sounding hatchback for the money.

[Nik_L]

Why no Astra VXR Nurburgring in the list?? Would get 1 in budget, and they sound epic with the standard Remus exhaust. Look stunning too and not as common as the others (well, apart from the 3 MPS).

[adamm]

I would probably go for the R32 but I don't really know fuck all about the Mazda.

[MiniGibbo]

Jazz is too much of a bender for a m3..

[Tommo87]

Jazz is too much of a bender for a m3..

You have a pretend m3, surely using your logic that makes you an über-bender.

[MiniGibbo]

You have a pretend m3, surely using your logic that makes you an über-bender.

At times i do regret building mine and not just waiting a couple of years then buying an m3...


but then it would still need all the work mine has so i dont and continue raping life with a "better than a oem m3" that costs me less to insure/tax.

[Nik_L]

At times i do regret building mine and not just waiting a couple of years then buying an m3...


but then it would still need all the work mine has so i dont and continue raping life with a "better than a oem m3" that costs me less to insure/tax.

But at the end of the day, its still not an M3.

I would also see your logic if you had started with a 328i, and not the 323i fail car.

[MiniGibbo]

Thats the point.. everyone knows an m3 is fast but when they get past by the "fail-323" its that much better :A:

[ThrushMotorsport]

R32 is so common up here in aberdeen, see one every street even in the minky area

Same storys for ST's, more common than normal focus's up here, type r's are the same too, dont think i see a normal civic up here other than a type R.

The MPS - i dont see much of them, but theres a handful, so that would be the rarer car so it would be something id go for, also MPS's make nice power..

[MiniGibbo]

R32 is so common up here in aberdeen, see one every street even in the minky area

Same storys for ST's, more common than normal focus's up here, type r's are the same too, dont think i see a normal civic up here other than a type R.

The MPS - i dont see much of them, but theres a handful, so that would be the rarer car so it would be something id go for, also MPS's make nice power..

Can you please keep the thread on topic..


http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk96/xmattgibsonx/SDC15056.jpg

[ThrushMotorsport]

Can you please keep the thread on topic..


http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk96/xmattgibsonx/SDC15056.jpg

Thread was on topic, i was saying my views you ronald mcdonald looking mothafukka.

Keep it on topic, no clogging up the thread with shit bangers.

k thanks bai. x

[MiniGibbo]

Then keep it on topic..

http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk96/xmattgibsonx/SAM_0021.jpg

[0rang3peel]

the profile of the tyres on them red wheels look hoooooge

[MiniGibbo]

Strange as theyre not...

http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk96/xmattgibsonx/SAM_0016.jpg

[0rang3peel]

Strange as theyre not...

http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk96/xmattgibsonx/SAM_0016.jpg

yeah I gathered they weren't just how it was sitting.

[MiniGibbo]

Think its where the arches are really dark black like the tyres..

http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk96/xmattgibsonx/SAM_0022.jpg

[hard_corejoeboy]

None....

Get a clio

[moxy89]

None....

Get a clio

jazz is straight so a clio is not suitable

[Jazz]

jazz is straight so a clio is not suitable

LOL made me laugh :P

Thanks for the comments guys,

Still just toying with the ideas right now.

I've driven the FN2 Type R and it wasn't that bad, but it lacked grunt and wasn't that exciting..

Going to test drive the R32 Golf and Mazda 3 MPS soon and see what I think. With the price of Focus ST's these days it would be unwise to completely rule them out.

VXR Astra Nurburgring never crossed my mind before, but they do look mean. Might look into them... :afro:

[moxy89]

what i am getting on 28th july ;)

[blackie_2k5]

st or mazda are the only ones worth looking at as the other two cost too much money to make quick

[Jazz]

what i am getting on 28th july ;)

Good question Moxy... do humour me :P

blackie- good point although the Golf sounds like sex on wheels..

[hard_corejoeboy]

Astra nurburgring is famous for understeering and crashing at guess where?

Out of all those i would deffo rule that one out.

What about an ep3 type r?

And a clio 200 is leagues ahead of all these cars

[Penn]

Chap over on the Renaultsport UK forum is selling an absolutely mint 2008 Megane R26 for under 8K and accepting offers, he's owned it from new.

http://i1169.photobucket.com/albums/r515/skeldonia/DSCN05651.jpg

http://i1169.photobucket.com/albums/r515/skeldonia/DSCN05671.jpg

[moxy89]

crashing is so underated, every saxo i have owned has ended up at silver lake, so on the 28th when i have 240bhp it will just happen but much much higer speeds WINNER

[Jazz]

What about an ep3 type r?

And a clio 200 is leagues ahead of all these cars

Already had a EP3 Type R, it was brilliant to be fair... might try something newer this time.

Clio 200 is very good but I'm looking for more of a bigger comfier car.

Penn ^ not normally a fan of the sheered-arse Meg but that model is very nice .

[moxy89]

but it has a renualt badge

[blackie_2k5]

golf's are really nice cars..but not a fun car imo..theyre a lazy/cruiser/comfy car

[hard_corejoeboy]

but it has a renualt badge

Compared to a citroen? Thats like comparing fiat to ferrari!

Forgot to mention r26

Fabulous fabulous car 95% of an r26r for a lot less than 5% cheaper!

Take it to ktec and have some real fun!

[Nik_L]

Astra nurburgring is famous for understeering and crashing at guess where?

Where??

[hard_corejoeboy]

Lol its in the name

[moxy89]

i dont have a citroen!! I have a astra soon to be replaced with a astra VXR. I will never own a french car again.

[Nik_L]

Can't say ive heard of many being crashed at the Nurburgring tbh.

Can't even say ive heard of many crashing due to under-steer either.

Im a firm believer that under-steer is mostly down to driver error rather than the car. Yes, some cars are easier to get to under-steer than others, but then if you are trying to push it to under-steer, then you really shouldn't be behind the wheel.

[hard_corejoeboy]

Oh god you know the rs models are made in a different factory?

You getting the new astra? Didnt fancy an rs megane 250?

Pug and citroen are much worsr than renault and ive had em all

[Penn]

I have a astra soon to be replaced with a astra VXR.

Unlucky.

[Tommo87]

FD2, it's the way forward.

[moxy89]

i would have love the megane RS 250.

Penn unlucky why ? still faster and nosier than your 200

[Penn]

Penn unlucky why ? still faster and nosier than your 200

You're new to cars, straight line speed is probably the smallest factor of measuring how good a car is to drive.

[moxy89]

Yeah dont get my wrong they understeer, however ill soon sort that out with MORE POWERRRRRRRR

[hard_corejoeboy]

Lmao :)

Deffo true though i would have a clio 200 in a heartbeat as its all the car i could ever want well that or the megane :)

Sadly the cost to run a powerful car above 133bhp is just too much these days

[devilsadvocate]

Compared to a citroen? Thats like comparing fiat to ferrari!

Forgot to mention r26

Fabulous fabulous car 95% of an r26r for a lot less than 5% cheaper!

Take it to ktec and have some real fun!

Have heard mixed reviews about K-Tec

Thinking of getting my 200 mapped but haven't decided where yet!

[moxy89]

Fuck k tec, we went there on rolling road day, they supercharged a clio and were ragging the tits of it before the owner collected it, also they were filling our forms out on the bonnet of a customers williams

[hard_corejoeboy]

but it has a renualt badge

Have heard mixed reviews about K-Tec

Thinking of getting my 200 mapped but haven't decided where yet!

I think its like that with all tuners it seems the older you are /the bigger uiur wallet the more they look after you.

Theres always rs tuning or mulgari

[hard_corejoeboy]

Fuck k tec, we went there on rolling road day, they supercharged a clio and were ragging the tits of it before the owner collected it, also they were filling our forms out on the bonnet of a customers williams

That would put me off for life.

[moxy89]

made me cringe and it wasnt mine, dont get me wrong the lads up there were awesome however dont respect others cars

[Penn]

Have heard mixed reviews about K-Tec

Thinking of getting my 200 mapped but haven't decided where yet!

RS Tuning in Leeds, one of the only places you should get your Renaultsport tuned.

Very very good reputation and held in such high regard right across the owner base for all models.

[devilsadvocate]

RS Tuning in Leeds, one of the only places you should get your Renaultsport tuned.

Very very good reputation and held in such high regard right across the owner base for all models.

Cheers, will take a look!

[Jamie]

I agree with that only ever heard good things about RSTuning that's where I'm taking my car and it's in fucking Leeds, and I'm lazy! (3-4hr drive from moi iirc).

[Frankay]

Don't bother with a VXR, straight line speed they're not to bad. They are very overrated in my opinion. If you like a small amount of fun in the twistys, thats all You will get a "small" amount.

[hard_corejoeboy]

I yhink thats the problem with the overweight generation of hot hatches they dont even feel that fast
Sure some of them can crack 155mph or so but on track they will be maybr 10mph faster than say the lighter generation?

Factor in fuel/tax/insurance etc and they dont make much sense.
Sure if your names paul and you work in the city and earn a mint and you see a focus rs in the dealers uoubwill think yes i must have.

This is why there are so many threads like 'my saxo is fastrt than a focus rs' etc

the buggers aint a clue how to drive them!

[simmo]

Mazda!! Im sure i read somewhere there as quick to 100 as a new ficus rs?

Although id be looking at k1 cupras or edition30 golfs!

[MiniGibbo]

I doubt the mp3 is as fast as the focus rs when it uses the oldest form of the Volvo five cylinder..

That would be like porsche making the gaymen faster than the 911....

[Jazz]

Few other potentials as well.. arghh can't make my mind up.

http://www.markeaston.org/miscimages/cupra/cupra1.jpg

http://opelfan.com/im/2008/04/astra.jpg

http://www.images.wikiwirral.co.uk/uploads/902/2007/07oct/wikiwirral16024.jpg

[MiniGibbo]

Why do you such poor car taste..

[Jazz]

I doubt the mp3 is as fast as the focus rs when it uses the oldest form of the Volvo five cylinder..

That would be like porsche making the gaymen faster than the 911....

The MPS doesn't use the volvo 5-cylinder you bellend, its a Mazda's own 2.3 DISI 4-pot Turbo.

And yes Autoexpress tested both, the MPS was right on the bumper of the Focus RS in all their tests.

[MPHZONE]

If i had the money right now, i would probably go for the R32. But the MPS does look pretty good.

[Pat_Vts]

I'd consider the lotus elise S1/S2 if i were you.

I've had a few of the cars listed, most recently the E46 M3 and to this day i still have the itch for the lotus.

Consider the lotus, it is a bit of a left wing suggestion but it should come within budget and in comparision won't be as much to run as some of the cars suggested. (based on 5000 miles per annum at the most at a guess seeing as you have a daily).

Or scrap it all, use that dough as a deposit and move on. Come back to cars at a later point in life dude! :)

[Penn]

Or scrap it all, use that dough as a deposit and move on. Come back to cars at a later point in life dude! :)

That's exactly what I did a few months ago, best advise in the whole thread!

[MiniGibbo]

The MPS doesn't use the volvo 5-cylinder you bellend, its a Mazda's own 2.3 DISI 4-pot Turbo.

And yes Autoexpress tested both, the MPS was right on the bumper of the Focus RS in all their tests.

Does it..?

[MiniGibbo]

That's exactly what I did a few months ago, best advise in the whole thread!

Why can't you have a nice car and buy a gaff.?

[Pat_Vts]

Why can't you have a nice car and buy a gaff.?

Depends on your liquidity and what sort of gaff you buy doesn't it? Not to mention lifestyle (i.e. kids and wife). Plenty of variables out there :homme:.

[hard_corejoeboy]

Integra is a good suggestion. Nice engine should be good fun to drive as well.

Or scrap the fast cars and get a medium hatch like an fiesta st or something mountune 185 it and suspension brakes etc and you have a good hatch thats also fairly cheap to run.
Can apply yo any of the warm hatches

[0rang3peel]

now that you've widened the goal posts I would go for the teg with a bit of change.

they hold their value too

[Mr_X]

I'd consider the lotus elise S1/S2 if i were you.

I've had a few of the cars listed, most recently the E46 M3 and to this day i still have the itch for the lotus.

Consider the lotus, it is a bit of a left wing suggestion but it should come within budget and in comparision won't be as much to run as some of the cars suggested. (based on 5000 miles per annum at the most at a guess seeing as you have a daily).

Or scrap it all, use that dough as a deposit and move on. Come back to cars at a later point in life dude! :)

As much as i love it, i wouldnt recommend one for your current requirements. It's not comfortable, it's loud, it's expensive and not all that reliable.

How new do you want the car to be?

[blackie_2k5]

dc5 would be nice..but would cost alot of money again to make it fast

be more then happy with an s/c dc5 though :)

[Mochachino]

http://motoburg.com/images/honda-torneo-euro-r-03.jpg

or

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3098/3144052723_947c5ac732.jpg

?

[Pat_Vts]

As much as i love it, i wouldnt recommend one for your current requirements. It's not comfortable, it's loud, it's expensive and not all that reliable.

How new do you want the car to be?

Looking at his car history, i don't think he's overly fussed on the age of it as long as its post 2002 or so.

How come it is expensive if you are doing less than average miles? I would have thought not so expensive if sticking to 5000 miles per annum?

VX220 or a S2K (modified one) is another shout, DC5 is a good car but don't get me wrong a bit too similair to the EP3 and Jazz has previously owned a modified EP3 which wouldn't have been too dis-similair to the DC5 so i would rule the DC5 out personally.

But then we need more information to give constructive suggestions rather than just picking random cars out of the hat.

Edit; Z3M for a wild one.

[simmo]

Still think a leon cupra k1 ia the best idea!

Or edition 30 golf. DO IT!

[hard_corejoeboy]

If you cant drive a dc5 fast then you arent trying hard enough!

Megane r26 is my final suggestion that or a 197

[Jazz]

Nice suggestions guys.

I know I'm kind of picking cars out the air but I really haven't set my heart on anything, hence so many possibilities.

Ideally I want a newer car, preferably post '06 really, low miles, sporty but not too rigid. I want to be able to drive it on the continent without breaking my back, but it should still be good for a few cheeky laps of the 'Ring while being decent on the autobahn too. Want some comforts as well. Don't really want to spend more than £12-£13k ideally, and running costs can't be a total bitch either (hence why I'm avoiding M3, Evo, Scooby etc).

I'm not going to make a decision until probably after summer, which gives me at least a couple months to do plenty of test drives, research etc.

None of the latest hot-hatch generation really grab me by the balls and shout "buy me!" so I'm pretty open minded.

[blackie_2k5]

If you cant drive a dc5 fast then you arent trying hard enough!

Megane r26 is my final suggestion that or a 197

You can drive many cars fast

Doesn't mean they are fast cars!

Just like you can drive a clio fast, doesn't mean it's going to be an Evo chaser though !!

[Tommo87]

Think we may have a winner lol
http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/3967658.htm

[Jazz]

Think we may have a winner lol
http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/3967658.htm

Awesome!

But running that V8 would limit my many planned road trips in the future. I need at least 25+mpg this time unfortunately.

For a weekend warrior I'd certainly be looking at something like that.

[danzman1991]

BMW 330i/335i? 130i/135i?

[Tommo87]

I do like to try and keep it interesting.

I reckon you'd get 25+ mpg out of it...if you left it on tick over and pushed it.

[Penn]

Slightly above budget but fucking hell, what a car for the money! Even has the Recaros.

http://beta.pistonheads.com/classifieds/used-cars/renault/renaultsport-megane/renault-megane-2-0-t-16v-renaultsport-250-cup-3dr/558289

[blackie_2k5]

The new cup is an awesome car but fuck they're ugly

[Nik_L]

Think we may have a winner lol
http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/3967658.htm

I raise you this.....
http://pistonheads.com/sales/3804497.htm

But aye, Monaro VXR.

[Mochachino]

http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/3664705.htm

£10,795

HONDA ACCORD EURO R CL7 JDM MODEL (2005)

http://cdn.images.pistonheads.com/aimg/3664/3664705-1.jpg

http://cdn.images.pistonheads.com/aimg/3664/3664705-6.jpg

http://cdn.images.pistonheads.com/aimg/3664/3664705-3.jpg

The enhanced driving performance Honda Accord Euro R (CL7) was launched. The Honda Accord Euro-R is powered by the K20A 2.0liter DOHC i-VTEC engine that makes 220 horsepower and 21.0kg-m of torque. The Honda Accord Euro R adopts the lightweight 6-speed manual transmission that offers highly responsive performance. An exterior design with accentuated sportiness throughout, including aeroform bumpers, honeycomb mesh front grill, and 17-inch aluminum wheels. Also, springs, anti-sway bars, and bushings are firmer, and shock absorbers have been tuned for optimum damping.

Main Equipment : Driver & front passenger SRS airbag system, ABS with EBD, a high mounted stop lamp, full auto air conditioner, key less entry system, EPS, immobilizer, power window, aeroform bumpers, foglihgts, HID headlights.

Exclusive Euro-R Equipment : clutch start system, RECARO front bucket seats, a MOMO leather wrapped steering wheel, an aluminum shift knob & pedals, technical-metal type console, black-out headlights, titanium colored back lens, dark-chrome plating door handles, a sports grill, light weight fly wheel, LSD, sports suspension.

K20A Engine same as the DC5 and JDM EP3 220Bhp Recaro's, LSD, chassis all upspecced from UK models, mature nice looking car, rare also. 2005, but modern looking like the newer models. Cant go wrong!

Comfortable, good setup which will be good for the 'ring and long legs with its 6speed gearbox! Economical, and also reliable with it being Honda. Cant go wrong!

What do you think Jazz? Personally, this would be my choice!

[Jazz]

Love Accords Moch, I used to have an Accord Type R and it was one of my favourite cars.

Never really considered one of the CL7 R's but I think I'll look into them.

[Mochachino]

Love Accords Moch, I used to have an Accord Type R and it was one of my favourite cars.

Never really considered one of the CL7 R's but I think I'll look into them.

Im sure this would be your new favourite ;)

Also with it being a more rare JDM model, it wont depreciate as steeply as any of the other cars you have in your options.

Cant think of any negatives :p

[Jazz]

True, apart from there are hardly any on sale (not necessarily a bad thing) but the only ones I have seen are like 8k+ for a 2003 car, which is pricey for an older car, JDM or not. Awesome spec though, I can imagine myself really enjoying one of those, will keep an eye on the markets :detective:

[Tommo87]

http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/3952882.htm

Do it.

[Mochachino]

http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/1168205.htm

HONDA CIVIC TYPE R FD2 4 DOOR SALOON 2008 08 (2008)

£14,250 save the extra 1k
47,000 miles

http://cdn.images.pistonheads.com/aimg/1168/1168205-8.jpg

http://cdn.images.pistonheads.com/aimg/1168/1168205-7.jpg

horrendous seats though which are unbearably uncomfortable, for me anwyay.

[Jazz]

Tommo- lol that looks mental, but probably not quite what I am looking for :P

Moch- I do like that very much, haven't driven one although all I hear is that it is hideously uncomfortable on any surface.. would be incredible around the 'ring though.

[Tommo87]

Tommo- lol that looks mental, but probably not quite what I am looking for :P

Dunno, it'll beast 'the ring', do 25mpg, run forever and be a total hoot to drive.

I have driven an FD2 and the FD2 Mugen RR and yeah even the stock FD2 is rather harsh for our roads and the Mugen is pretty much horrific on our roads, both very harsh but I can imagine they'd be very rewarding to drive on a track.

[baker556]

Honda s2000

/thread.

[Tontsy]

http://www.millteksport.com/images/custom/1011.jpg

http://www.automobilesreview.com/img/2012-seat-leon-cupra-r/slides/seat-leon-cupra-r-01.jpg

winning.

[MiniGibbo]

The older Leon was ugly from the back but looked good from the front...


That just looks fucking shit.

[hard_corejoeboy]

That looks like a twingo/megane/clio/saxo/volvo/leon

doesnt do it for me waaay too much going on...

[titchster]

OK, I just read the first page and the last page.


But, out of the original choices, i'd say the MPS. Although, I much prefer the mk1s. Seem rare as hell, saw one earlier though, oddly.

[L33h]

Out of them id say the MPS. i dont like the new civics. I hate focus STs and even tho im a dub man... Im not too keen on the R32s

[Lewis1600]

Out of the choice, my money would be on R32.

But I also like this :
http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/3725878.htm

[danboy]

I have a 3 mps with over 300bhp. To be honest im going past 40 yr old stock heads in m5's just under 170 mph. Crazy feeling

[Tommo87]

How about an Accord Type-S k24 with the type-R head, apparently about 260bhp and 200lb/ft of NA goodness.

[hard_corejoeboy]

Had no one mentioned an evo/impreza?

[MiniGibbo]

Had no one mentioned an evo/impreza?

Because theyve read the thread..

[AlexFocusST]

After 6 years of owning the ST , i would still prefer it out off the rest.
The bad parts are 1. fuel consumption 11 to 14,5 lt/100km with normal driving , mine is bluefined and has a forge intercooler,
2. will not entirely satisfy you if you are intending to track it... that is why it is cheaper to have a vts as a 2nd car !!

Any car with over 200 bhp on the front wheels will under-steer at some point if you plant the accelator mid corner in 2nd or 3rd and boost comes in....

[danboy]

After 6 years of owning the ST , i would still prefer it out off the rest.
The bad parts are 1. fuel consumption 11 to 14,5 lt/100km with normal driving , mine is bluefined and has a forge intercooler,
2. will not entirely satisfy you if you are intending to track it... that is why it is cheaper to have a vts as a 2nd car !!

Any car with over 200 bhp on the front wheels will under-steer at some point if you plant the accelator mid corner in 2nd or 3rd and boost comes in....

Every corner has its limits on speeds to make it without wasting time going into fast, Yes something RWD will do it faster that's fact. You need to be a good driver to understand that limit.
In my mps its got LSD on the front, levelling and limiters on first to third gear, the car comes alive at 4th in which I could be doing 125 mph and I've still got fifth and sixth to go and that speed to get there is very few seconds (70-140)

In short yer mps's have too much bhp for FWD but it's a toy on the straights.

[0rang3peel]

http://www.millteksport.com/images/custom/1011.jpg

http://www.automobilesreview.com/img/2012-seat-leon-cupra-r/slides/seat-leon-cupra-r-01.jpg

winning.

vomit, that is well and truly hanging :n:

[Giraffe]

vomit, that is well and truly hanging :n:

Why so? Is it because it looks about 2ft off the ground?! Looks like it should be a 4x4 or something imo, but I agree, looks horrible lol

[0rang3peel]

Why so? Is it because it looks about 2ft off the ground?! Looks like it should be a 4x4 or something imo, but I agree, looks horrible lol

Yeah totally, it looks so high should be sold at the new range rover evoque lol.

Infact it just totally looks shit, looks like a shoe.

[Prickle]

Ugly as sin those seats ^ ;)

[Karl]

DC5 with KPro. £9k approx.

fun car, wont break often. looks awesome and is exclusive. Enjoy 240hp @ 9,000rpm.


Alternatively, Zimmer 330D?

[Peter_D]

DC5 with KPro. £9k approx.

fun car, wont break often. looks awesome and is exclusive. Enjoy 240hp @ 9,000rpm.


True story sis

[Karl]

If I had approx 10k to spend on a fun / do it all car, that is what I'd pick anyway.

40mpg driven sensibly,
fast enough when you want it to be,
Handles, LSD, looks aggressive as hell,
not impractical at all (unless you want to put a baby seat in it being a 3 door).

[Peter_D]

Perfect allrounder :y:

[smiith]

Seen so many MPS's around, and they all look amazing!

[Mochachino]

Seats are ugly as foook these days! So thats a deffo no no from me.