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Fun, Fast & Efficient - Who Makes the HOTTEST Performance Economy Car?

Agent00J submitted on 06/27/2008 Official AutoSpies Timestamp: 10:53 PM
from: www.roadandtrack.com

[88] user comments | category: New Cars

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Fun, Fast & Efficient - Who Makes the HOTTEST Performance Economy Car?

In making my rounds at the local bookstore last night, I headed over to the magazine rack to check out the numerous automotive publications. One cover in particular caught my eye and compelled me to grab the magazine and do a quick scan through the pages. Road & Track had a Fast and Frugal cover story wherein they establish a baseline system to establish which cars in their opinions fit that description. I've included the link below for your consideration, however I am convinced they missed more than a few cars that certainly fit that description. Their list included cars like the Audi TT, Lotus Elise, Corvette, Nissan 350Z , BMW 135i and Pontiac Solstice GXP.

As much fun as those cars are, and don't get me wrong they are fun, they also are expensive. Face it, when you think of an economy car, images of Corvettes and Nissan 350Z's don't normally come to mind, instead cars like the Toyota Yaris and Smart and the infamous Prius are usually good starting points for discussion.

But wait, there is such thing as a fast yet efficient economy car, isn't there?

So I got to thinking what cars fit this description, cars that are fun to drive, yet easy on the bank account come fill up time. While filling my BMW M3 last week at the gas station to the tune of $4.25 per gallon, the guy at the next stall complimented the car, but inquired as to the gas mileage. He was in a Nissan Sentra SE-R. I asked him how he liked his car and he told me he loved it. He said he was getting 26 MPG to which I replied, that beats the heck out of the 15 MPG of my car.

And so it is that I set out to find cars that are not only efficient, but fun to drive as well.

In doing this I set a few parameters, for instance the car has to get at least an average of 25 MPG when adding the EPA City and Highway figures and dividing them by 2. In addition, lets set a price cap of $25k, we are talking economy cars after all. Finally it has to at least look the part, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but the Prius isn't going to cut it on this one. With this in mind, here is the list I came up with.

Honda Civic Si - I almost bought one of these last year, and honestly I still absolutely love this car. I like the looks, I like the enhancements the Si package adds to the base Civic, and I love to run the engine up and down through the gears. The great thing about this car is the harder you work it, the more it rewards you. The biggest reward comes at fuel time as this car averages a combined 25 MPG. Not bad for a car that gets up and moves.

VW GTI - This is a special car for a couple of reasons. First off the name GTI is among the elite of automotive nameplates, an icon that has been around for almost 30 years. Secondly, the available DSG transmission makes for a great driving experience while allowing the option of full automatic when needed or required. Third, the performance, while not the fastest at everything it does, it is certainly one of the most composed cars, exhibiting traits most often associated with much more expensive German cars wearing names like BMW and Mercedes-Benz. Rounding out this list of course is the 2.0 4-Cylinder engine. This 200 HP engine is powerful and refined making for a great daily driving experience. Of course at a combined average 25 MPG, you can smile when it comes time to fill up.

Mazda 3 - A favorite as well as a best seller for Mazda, this car shares its basic architecture with the European Ford Focus as well as the more expensive Volvo S40. Fun to drive and efficient, I don't think you can go wrong with this car. A combined average of 25 MPG again helps at the pump.

Mini Cooper S - Aside from being a great looking car, this car is an absolute blast to drive. I owned a 2003 Cooper S and can speak from first hand experience of how much fun this little car is to drive. Granted, when equipped with the sport suspension, it can get a little rough over rough roads, but you quickly forget that when carving up a mountain road running the transmission through its six closely spaced gears. A combined EPA average of 29 MPG is a nice perk as well.

Scion TC - While not as sporting as some of the others listed here, the TC brings to the table Toyota quality and reliability in a sporty fun to drive package. The gear box and clutch make working the engine a joy, and like the Civic Si rewards those willing to work for it. My brother-in-law has a 2007 TC, and he let me spend some time driving it last year when I was in California. Aside from the great gas mileage, the TC is among the cheapest performance economy cars on the market right now, and that alone gets it a spot on my list.

Nissan Sentra SE-R - This is the only car I have listed that I have not driven, so this is purely speculative. What I do know is Nissan has put together a decent set of modifications to create a good looking (certainly better than the base car) car that at least puts on a decent persona of a performance economy car. The combined EPA mileage of 27 MPG isn't bad either.

It is inevitable that I missed one here, so I throw it to you to decide. Who Makes the HOTTEST Performance Economy Car?
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Fun, Fast & Efficient - Who Makes the HOTTEST Performance Economy Car?

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EL34 - 6/28/2008 9:53:06 AM

Show Comment -26 Boost

JRobUSC - 6/28/2008 9:57:56 AM

+22 Boost

ah, such delicious irony. If you're going to throw the word "stupid" around, at least try not to spell it incorrectly.

_43LE - 6/28/2008 11:10:30 AM

+18 Boost

Welcome to the world of EL34 where ignorance meets stupidity :/

EL34 - 6/28/2008 11:36:24 AM

Show Comment -24 Boost

Htay7500 - 6/28/2008 12:32:58 PM

+11 Boost

"BMW drivers are aware there are rules of the road."

especially when they go 40 on a 25 mph zone nearly hitting 2 girls on a crosswalk. yep, they do know their rules of the road...

M53R - 6/28/2008 10:19:13 AMView My AgentSpace

+7 Boost

I love the mini.

reply to this comment

Htay7500 - 6/28/2008 10:26:41 AM

+5 Boost

the dsg in the GTI makes the drive feel absolutely boring after a while.

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Htay7500 - 6/28/2008 10:29:56 AM

+2 Boost

MPS3 or gti.

reply to this comment

Htay7500 - 6/28/2008 10:30:07 AM

-1 Boost

or mini.

lenkun - 6/28/2008 10:46:05 AM

Show Comment -15 Boost

0to60 - 6/28/2008 10:51:36 AM

+12 Boost

give or take a thousand!?! Find me a 1 series for 25k give or take a thousand. Yea, this from the same guy who cant distinguish between a 7 series and a 5 series.

Agent00J - 6/28/2008 11:16:24 AMView My AgentSpace

+11 Boost

I have to disagree with you, there are is no 135i, or 128i available for LESS than 25K. If you can a 135i for 25K brand new, let me know as I will but one myself.

-00J

85bmw745i - 6/30/2008 1:47:23 AMView My AgentSpace

+1 Boost

yes the 135i is a hell of a performer, but try getting one under 40k. I am a BMW guym but this car is priced too close to the 3 series. the only reason to get one is simply because you prefer it. price really won't be a determining factor.

Milton - 6/28/2008 10:46:38 AM

Show Comment -17 Boost

Agent00J - 6/28/2008 11:16:58 AMView My AgentSpace

+8 Boost

Find me a Lexus GS450h for 25K brand new, and I will take one of those as well.

-00J

damikco - 6/29/2008 2:18:28 PMView My AgentSpace

+2 Boost

me to

jasaero - 6/28/2008 11:17:47 AM

+8 Boost

You forgot the one that actually WON the R&T article!! It also qualifies under your rules!! The new Turbo Cobalt SS has far more power than any of these first of all! But, also has race inspired features like launch control and no lift shifting of the manual. It has an option limited slip differential. It owns them with it's 8:22 Nurburgring time also. On top of all that it gets better EPA overall average than any of these except maybe the Mini and the Scion. Most of these get an EPA overall average of 24 partially because of the lower 29 highway most of them are rated while the Cobalt SS get 30 highway with a 25 EPA average.

The Cobalt might not end up being the best looking, but it looks pretty good. In my own personal opinion and I think I have heard a lot agree, the new Civic and the SI in particular look horrible compared to the last gen. The odd curves on the new Civic are pretty polarizing and I think the nays out number the yays on the new Civic look.

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jasaero - 6/28/2008 11:24:17 AM

+7 Boost

Just noticed the Mazda 3 also matches this Cobalt SS Turbo I guess, but you have to get the Manual to get the 25. Which is fine for this comaprison. Also the Mazda 3 is overall a pretty sport tuned car so even the 2.0L more economy oriented varients that may not go quite as well are still a lot more fun to drive than any NON-SS Cobalt or NON-Si Civic. The SS Cobalt is a very extreme car from an economy and performance perspective though with it's 260hp Turbo Direct Injection I4.

JRobUSC - 6/28/2008 11:29:34 AM

+5 Boost

the Cobalt SS ran the Ring in 8:22? Really? I'm impressed then. That's faster than an S4 and ties the previous generation M3. That's pretty good company for a souped up Chevy economy car to be in.

91z4me - 6/28/2008 11:30:05 AM

+3 Boost

I gotta agree w/ this. The Scion Tc isn't what I would call a performance car, an economy car yes but if I can outrun one up to 60 in my stock 98 Malibu (which I did) then it can't be considered a performance car. The Cobalt on the other hand offers MUCH more performance. The SI while nice doesn't really offer a lot of performance for the dollar.

I am rather surprised that you didn't have the Solstice or Sky on the list as both are RWD (offering great handling and styling). If you go for the GXP/Redline package which starts at $28K you can have performance that will run with $40K Boxters.

jasaero - 6/28/2008 11:37:20 AM

+4 Boost

It did the Ring in 8:22.85. So guess it's closer to 8:23, but still really fast for an econobox that hasn't got an AWD drivetrain transplanted into it for RW help.

http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/28/officially-official-2008-chevy-cobalt-ss-bows-at-sema/

The Ring time is quoted below the rear quart picture about 3/4 of the way into their write up.

Agent00J - 6/28/2008 12:16:23 PMView My AgentSpace

+2 Boost

As I stated in the article, this was my list. For me personally the Cobalt SS does NOTHING for me, that does not mean it isn't a good car, or even a great car, but not for me.

Is the TC a full blown performance car, No. However it is a lot of fun to drive, and that is why it made my list.

Remember, the list above is my list, I like seeing your list along with others.

-00J

jasaero - 6/28/2008 1:18:37 PM

+5 Boost

That's fair. Just wondering what it is about the Cobalt SS that kept it off your list? Is it the styling more or less. Or the fact it's a Chevy? Or the overly cheap interior? I GET all the cars on your list, just not getting why the Cobalt didn't make it. At first thought you were kinda trying to change the rules and focus on cars not in the R&T list, but then realized the Mini was in that one so you had one of R&T's choices. So basically want to know why the Cobalt didn't make your list.

As a side note, not sure how I got comments about the Scion going?? Never really said anything bad about it. Actually was giving cred to it and the Mini's fuel economy while still be fun cars. I understand this list isn't about all out performance and such and guess that may be part of the reason for the lack of the Cobalt. Extreme all out performce from a car that still meets the rest of your criteria need atleast suggestion though as it will add that extra fun factor usually!!

Agent00J - 6/28/2008 2:50:55 PMView My AgentSpace

0 Boost

To answer your question, the Cobalt SS evokes images of latter day Chevy Cavalier. I agree while not a fair comparison, it is what I think of when I see the Cobalt in any form.

I am sure it is a competent and fun to drive, but it just wasn't on my radar.

Hope that answers your question.

-00J

jasaero - 6/28/2008 3:00:10 PM

+5 Boost

Pretty much what I figured. That's a big problem with the Cobalt. Also the SS supercharged wasn't anything special like the newest Turbo version.

GM really does need to find a way to get their small cars back on peoples radar. Think the replacement for the Cobalt will help as it looks a lot better from the spy shots I've seen. It's going to take more than a stand out product to get people past the Cavalier image though.

damikco - 6/29/2008 2:19:56 PMView My AgentSpace

0 Boost

Pepole just dont think of good ol american cars.

Star - 6/28/2008 11:28:17 AM

-8 Boost

The GTI is by far the best performance compact car on the market.

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5agarwals - 6/28/2008 12:07:59 PM

-5 Boost

Absolutely agree with Star. It has to be the GTI for refinement, quality, performance, economy...

SDswtc44 - 6/28/2008 11:36:28 AM

+3 Boost

I love my tC. I have had it for nearly 4 years now, and it has been a great car. Sure, it isn't as fast as a few of these cars (ie. the gti or civic si, but where it gets everyone is standard options and interior space. I test drove the civic and, at the time, the rsx along with the mazda 3. None of them were quite as versatile as the scion. Plus the optional TRD supercharger makes the car match the civic si once installed. And, even with that option, it still comes up a couple thousand dollars less.

Great list by the way. I think you pretty much hit this list on the nose. These are great cars for people who want the sporting an economy.

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jasaero - 6/28/2008 12:11:17 PM

+5 Boost

What have you been smoking? Or do you just normally drive a 1963 Chevy Corvair or something??

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Agent00J - 6/28/2008 12:18:29 PMView My AgentSpace

+11 Boost

MichaelTaylor:

THERE IS NOTHING SPORTY ABOUT THE PRIUS.

Perhaps if you spent a moment or two thinking about the topic at hand, you would come across as credible versus your unending barrage of Pro Toyota/Lexus propaganda you spew forth.

Answer the questions posed, stop towing the Toyota company line. They are doing just fine without you.

-00J

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Htay7500 - 6/28/2008 12:29:23 PM

+6 Boost

"Where is the Toyota Prius? Honestly people always make it sound as if this car sucks but it so fuel efficient and the handling is nothing shy of amazing I've driven it and I was very impressed with the dynamics of the car."

ROFL. made my day.

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AE86 - 6/29/2008 4:23:39 AM

+1 Boost

I have driven the Prius and the Scion tC. They both are as exciting to drive as a wet dish rag. I have to agree with Michael Taylor, if the Scion tC with its handling (or lack thereof) belongs here, the almighty Prius belongs here as well.

reply to this comment

85bmw745i - 6/30/2008 1:51:40 AMView My AgentSpace

+1 Boost

cocaine is a hell of a drug

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chonnes - 6/28/2008 12:08:08 PMView My AgentSpace

+2 Boost

How about the Chevy HHR Turbo? It seems to fit all the criteria (~$24k with 25 avg. MPG). Personally I prefer the Mazda for looks but the HHR Turbo seems to be quite a nice package overall, especially when compared with the similar (and less than $1000 cheaper) Cobalt Turbo.

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jasaero - 6/28/2008 12:23:35 PM

0 Boost

That's a good choice also. It set an 8:43.52 time at the Ring which is the fastest for a small Van/SUV kinda vehicle class. It's bigger size makes it a bit less fun and worse on gas than the Cobalt SS though. Still a good choice if you like the Retro look and cargo room.

auto001 - 6/28/2008 12:35:05 PM

0 Boost

"he was getting 26 MPG to which I replied, that beats the heck out of the 15 MPG of my car..."

I guess this is the reason why M3 owners are dumping their cars left and right on the used market :)

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auto001 - 6/28/2008 12:40:01 PM

0 Boost

I would say Civic Si is the best, although the previous gen Civic SiR was the benchmark, with independent double wishbone suspension both front and rear.

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07mcs - 6/28/2008 5:22:14 PM

+1 Boost

i considered that car, but after looking at the fuel efficiency and cost and options that i wanted and that the civic didn't offer, i opted for the Mini.

ChicaneShooter - 6/29/2008 11:26:23 AM

+1 Boost

yes, i also remember that generational step BACKWARD from the most advanced suspension ever offered on econoboxes.
honda lost a little respect from many, by having the engineers cave to the beancounters.

auto001 - 6/28/2008 12:47:03 PM

+5 Boost

"BMW drivers are aware there are rules of the road."

Hahahahaaaaaha, that the funniest thing I've heard in years!

If you take a poll around the world measuring on the "pricks on the road" scale, BMW drivers win 1st place, period. there's not even a close 2nd...

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Agent00J - 6/28/2008 2:52:10 PMView My AgentSpace

+3 Boost

I resent (resemble?) the comment claiming BMW drivers are the biggest pricks on the road. I would think the smug drivers of Toyota Prius would be pretty high on that list, perhaps higher than the BMW driver!

-00J

jasaero - 6/28/2008 3:11:30 PM

+3 Boost

I think a better word for BMW and Prius drivers is pompous! That is a stereotype for the most part, but there are always a plenty out there keeping up the stereotypes to mess with those that aren't part of it as always!!

I drive a Cadillac so should be pushing 70, but just turned 30. Do have to admit though that I see lots of old folks in Cadillacs and probably see more Cadillacs here in one of the top retirement areas of the county(South Florida) than I see other places I have lived.

ChicaneShooter - 6/29/2008 5:57:19 AM

+1 Boost

agent 00J--

there is a considerable difference between "pricks" and "smug."

i can understand your defensiveness, being a bmw jockey. but i for one do NOT AGREE that most bmw drivers are pricks. just as i do NOT AGREE all prius drivers are smug. (and i know over a 1/2 dozen personally.)

however, a case can be made that there are A HIGHER PERCENTAGE of such drivers, among both owner groups, which FEED the stereotypes.

it is ONLY NATURAL that cars with certain abilities will have a goodly percentage of drivers EXPLOITING those advantages. whether it is flicking the car thru and around traffic. or exploiting gas miserliness.

but drivers of other brands ALSO do those antics too.

mwrmmg - 6/28/2008 2:07:22 PMView My AgentSpace

-2 Boost

I'll take the any of the Honda Type R anyday

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toolatetorace - 6/28/2008 3:28:54 PM

+2 Boost

performance economy ??? sounds like a oxymoron

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Agent00J - 6/28/2008 4:20:35 PMView My AgentSpace

+4 Boost

Oxymoron, no, not here.

Hey, we ran a story a couple of weeks back asking which was the better entry level super car, the Ferrari or Lamborghini. I am sure that wasn't an oxymoron either!

-00J

91z4me - 6/28/2008 5:24:26 PM

0 Boost

Why do people keep saying the 1 series is an econobox? It is a compact luxury coupe/convertible. That isn't an econobox at all.

reply to this comment

daytonaviolet - 6/28/2008 6:39:43 PM

+4 Boost

It's actually only Staar Jones that keeps saying it.

I don't know why he's still allowed to post here.

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F1_Driver - 6/28/2008 10:17:56 PM

+1 Boost

I wouldn't call the 1-series "luxury" coupe/convertible, especially with those KIA tail lights.

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damikco - 6/29/2008 2:22:26 PMView My AgentSpace

+2 Boost

i wouldnt even call a 3serie luxury let along the 1 series.

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07mcs - 6/28/2008 5:20:44 PM

+2 Boost

Mini, good handling and very efficient. I get about 32mpg for combined city and highway. base price is $22K, you can add options to suit your needs and wants.

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rexracer18 - 6/28/2008 5:34:52 PM

+2 Boost

Subaru WRX, why cant that be on this list? My WRX gets 24 to the gallon average which is not bad for the price and performance...

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Htay7500 - 6/28/2008 10:12:01 PM

+2 Boost

its his list, mostly his own opinion.

JUGNU - 6/28/2008 5:48:40 PMView My AgentSpace

+2 Boost

Renault Clio 197 is also nice.

JUGNU

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LexSucks - 6/28/2008 6:20:23 PM

0 Boost

I'll take the Honda.

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daytonaviolet - 6/28/2008 6:43:53 PM

+1 Boost

Give me the Civic Si with 4 doors. Good bang for your buck with Civic reliability.

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xlr8 - 6/28/2008 6:51:41 PM

+2 Boost

Id take the gti personally,I already have a rsx type s as a commuter so no civic for me. Ive thought about trading in my rsx for a gti...but my girl wants a mini so i may have to buy one of those instead.

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ChicaneShooter - 6/29/2008 6:50:59 AM

+3 Boost

from an RSX-R, you would be trading DOWN with those other choices. appreciate what you have.

ChicaneShooter - 6/29/2008 7:07:42 AM

+1 Boost

i meant, RSX type S

Star - 6/29/2008 9:23:05 AM

-3 Boost

chicaneshooter,

trade down from a Honda?????? Ha, ha, ha...
The GTI is a premium performance car compared with torqueless econoboxes like the RSX type S or Civic SI.

ChicaneShooter - 6/29/2008 11:05:47 AM

-1 Boost

but being a VW, it will be in the shop 3x - 10x more often than a honda. ANY honda.

and its price as a used car will be little more than its scrap value, whereas hondas remain re-sellable for as long as they still roll on their own power.

silver1 - 6/28/2008 10:04:32 PM

+3 Boost

The NIssan SE-R by a long shot

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farabira1 - 6/28/2008 11:36:39 PM

+3 Boost

For me the Mazda speed 3 is the best performance vehicle in a manageable price in this category. I think it is the cheapest car in this segment, and still packs above 200 HP and has excellent suspension and brakes, acceleration is great for the twisty bits, and the car is nimble footed and has panche and superb balance during handling. And the fit and finish of the interior is good enough for even long journeys. I will buy the Speed 3 anyday over the others.

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jasaero - 6/29/2008 1:46:44 AM

+2 Boost

The only problem with the Mazdaspeed3 is the Turbo I4 in it is basically as thirsty or more so than a similarly powered V6. The Cobalt SS Turbo has been shown in most tests to run a bit faster than a Speed3, but gets better economy. They have the same starting price, but the 3 comes with an LSD standard and that costs 500 or something on thee Cobalt SS. Also my impression of all the reviews I have read make the Mazda sound like it has slightly better steering feel, but other than that and the ugly looks of the Cobalt it is a very capable and more efficient alternative to the Speed3.

AlexTx - 6/29/2008 12:59:09 AM

+2 Boost

In this group... the GTI..
If I had to choose???
The Renault Megane R26.... Best Hot Hatch ever... period.
Best FWD chassis available and it puts most RWD cars to shame on the track... This is one hell of a car..

To JUGNU: I also love the Clio RS 197 Cup.....
When it comes to Hot Hatches, Renault does it best with the new GTi close second and the European Civic Si...

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ChicaneShooter - 6/29/2008 6:11:13 AM

+1 Boost

it is a testament to automotive progress that just about ANY econobox with a stick can be fun to drive.

look at the specs of the early sports cars of the '50s and '60s. many still had PUSHROD engines of modest hp. IRS was a rarity. handling decent for its day, but ONLY DUE to extremely light weight and low centers of gravity.
and of course, NONE of the modern amenities we all take for granted. just about any and all modern econoboxes have them beat!

my own position is, if you are not actually in a race or rally, ANY CAR with a stick can be fun to drive! further, a low to modest powered econobox (OR antique sports car!) is MORE FUN than more powerful cars!

IT IS FAR MORE FUN, DRIVING a SLOW CAR FAST, than having to put up with keeping a FAST CAR reined in.

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damikco - 6/29/2008 7:04:07 AMView My AgentSpace

0 Boost

none..... i did not know you can drive a coffin.

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ChicaneShooter - 6/29/2008 7:13:02 AM

0 Boost

what...are you saying people can not drive gm cars!?? j/k!

damikco - 6/29/2008 2:26:34 PMView My AgentSpace

0 Boost

As Stated above(and boosted many times) the cobalt ss would have been a winner on this list, still i wouldnt drive a small car.

Htay7500 - 6/29/2008 9:54:34 AM

+1 Boost

like you?

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ChicaneShooter - 6/29/2008 10:58:58 AM

+1 Boost

evilMonkey is nowhere NEAR being "chic."

a chick, maybe. or a cheek. (just 1/2 an a.., just as she is only 1/2 witted.)

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ChicaneShooter - 6/29/2008 11:01:37 AM

+1 Boost

whoa! evilMonkey got banned and disappeared right under our eyes, Htay!

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204E60 - 6/29/2008 6:50:00 PM

+1 Boost

Purchasing a new Porsche 911 is actually the best investment in economic, enthusiastic driving and ownership. In addition to being addictive to drive, they look fantastic, get great gas mileage (especially the new DFI models), retain very high resale value, are flawlessly manufactured, and there is no more fun drive on the road today. The "economic" part? A Porsche 911 will easily last 25 years or more....

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Jordanski - 6/29/2008 8:39:57 PM

+1 Boost

Subaru Imprezza WRX sport wagon all the way. Sleek clean design.
amazing practicality.
you wouldnt get the same use out of a honda civic si

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M35MT - 6/30/2008 8:26:29 AMView My AgentSpace

0 Boost

Mazdaspeed3!!!

0-60 in 5.4 seconds
.89G
Proven safety/reliability
nearly 26mpg averaged (personal experience)
All for $25k!!

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Star - 6/30/2008 4:31:52 PM

-1 Boost

Reliability?????? Ha, ha, ha...MS6 and MS3 have severe problems with blown turbos and engine seals.
Mazdaspeed cars are GARBAGE!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kaqKRSBPZ0o

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PlFV3skMQRI

Star - 6/30/2008 4:33:11 PM

0 Boost

I repeat. The GTI is by far the best choice in the segment.

smokinggun - 6/30/2008 3:26:01 PM

-2 Boost