Second Car.

[slashmatt]

I'm looking to purchase a second car.

I've kind of narrowed down the search to two vehicles

1. 2005 RSX Type-S
2. 2006 GTI

I, of course, haven't driven the all-new GTI yet, but I have driven several of the current model including the 337 and the R32. I just thought the handling on the RSX was much better. The RSX is lighter by about 200 lbs than the new GTI, and the revised motor in the RSX is very nice. *yep there's even some torque!*

I'm just wondering if there's anything else I should be looking at in that category. Nothing else seems to jump into my mind except the WRX, and I really don't like those base WRX's. But, I'm new to this territory. The last time I was looking for cars, it was between an M3, S4, NSX, and 911.

Wait a second, isn't an exotic sports car supposed to be a second car? I think I've got this backwards somehow.

 

[nsxtasy]

I'm just wondering if there's anything else I should be looking at in that category.

First, there are a couple of things you didn't mention about the comparison between the Acura and the VW. The RSX Type S is significantly less expensive than the VW (especially when you add options to the VW that are standard on the Acura, such as leather seats, automatic climate control, etc). The RSX Type S is significantly lighter in weight, which is why its handling is so much better. And you can expect the RSX Type S to have a big advantage in reliability.

As for other cars to consider, I assume your priorities are primarily great performance in the $22-24K price range (the VW will be more like $26K, comparably equipped). If you're interested in spending slightly more money than that, there are several options: (1) You can get a bit more luxury and very nice handling in the Acura TSX for about $27K. Another nice option in this price range is the Honda Accord Coupe EX V6. (2) You can get even more luxury in the Acura TL for about $31K. (3) You can get some luxury and higher performance in the Nissan 350Z for $26-34K, depending on trim. (4) You can screw the luxury and get MUCH higher performance in the $30-32K range with the WRX STi or the Evolution 8, although reliability is a serious concern. In addition to the price differential, all of these other cars are heavier than the RSX Type S by at least several hundred pounds.

However, if you are trying to keep the price under $25K, it's tough to find anything as good as the RSX Type S.

 

[MJK]

How about an NSX coupe?

If you go with one of the above, I'd get an 02 RSX-S. They are essentially the same thing and you can save enough cash to plenty of very interesting things to either the RSX-S or NSX.

 

[nsxtasy]

How about an NSX coupe?

If you go with one of the above, I'd get an 02 RSX-S. They are essentially the same thing and you can save enough cash to plenty of very interesting things to either the RSX-S or NSX.

I assume from Matt's query that he is interested in buying a NEW car. Not everyone wants to buy a used car.

 

[NSXLuvr]

RSX-S. Safe, Reliable, sporty, and fun enough to be a DD.

The VW's a new model. More expensive, less negotiation, and You sure you wan't to get a 1st yr. VW(even though it won't be a complete overhaul).