I don't know about you, but my car ownership days have always been filled with lust and desire for something just a little bit out of reach. For some reason I've always gravitated towards buying the base model of anything...but always as a major upgrade from the car traded in, to get to the next "class" of car I could afford. It always seems like a better value.
But finally, a couple years ago, I upgraded straight from a fairly stripped 2001 Boxster to a loaded 2004 Boxster S. This is the first time I haven't "jumped up" to the next model, say a base 911. And it's been great. The litronic headlights, upgraded wheels, increased torque, etc. Plus the intangible feeling that you're getting the best version of the car the company knows how to make. No excuses.
These days, though, with $4/gallon gas looming, the base models are a better value than ever. Take the BMW 1 series, for example. The obvious truth is that the 135i is the one everyone wants, but at $34,900 buyers can get a bit 3-curious at the dealership. And the whole question is avoided by getting the 128i for $6,300 less...and a more frugal driving partner at the gas pump to boot.
The 1 series is a good example because the base product isn't exactly slow...230hp in a small car can get you into or out of trouble in a hurry. This really a question of very fast vs. take-my-friends-out-and-scare-them fast.
This $4/gallon gas has really taken the luster out upgraded models for me. As much as I love power, it's no longer just about paying more to get out of the dealership...it's a commitment to paying more cash for trips. If I ended up driving less, especially for discretionary “fun” trips, it seems to me the base models are a better option for some enthusiasts.
What do you think?