Also, newer then year 2000? I hate to say it but i was kind of denied any possibility to get an 8, my only chance of a rotary car.

I guess there isn't anything that'll handle like the 8 but what would be close ? I'm figuring i'll have to look at a FF car or even some sort of awd car like a wrx. I'm thinking the rsx would be closest, but plz any suggestions for me to further look into would be greatly appreciated.

 

15-17k?


How about a used RX8?

 

Why were you "denied" getting an RX8? Parents?

 

The WRX can be a very capable handler but it needs some thing done to it in order for that to happen. A rear sway, KYB AGX struts, a good set of springs, and some sticky tires works wonders for that car. Integra Type R is a great handling little car even though it's a little older than what you're looking for, but it's also tough to find. Mazdaspeed Protege, SRT-4, and Focus SVT are other very capable FWD handlers. About the only thing that's going to handle about as well or better than an RX-8 in that pricerange and is '00 or newer is an older higher miles 350Z or S2000. But I have a feeling you'll be "denied" those as well. There's also the Miata.

 

a used rx8 IF the price is what is denying you from getting it

 

+3 used RX8 2005 or newer.

 

Or a used S2000...?

 

Rx-7?

 

He said he needs an FWD or AWD, so I gather his parents are restricitng him from driving a RWD car.

 

wow....powertrain layout bias....first time for everything i guess

 

Get a Miata.

Cant see the parents denying you that, unless they are skiddish about a convertible, in which case you get a hard top.

 

there are quite a bunch of used rx8s with decent miles in that price range

 

Integra Type-R...as long as you're not too concerned about creature comforts. Fun factor is way up there.

 

S2000 rwd
Audi S4 awd
ITR fwd

 

Mazda MX-5 (Third gen Miata). Suspension geometry very similar to the RX-8. Feels more like the RX-8 than a 2nd gen Miata.

 

I don't know about you guys , but I want to know, why he was denied .

 

MX-5, 90s MR2 turbo, FD3S, S2k. FF cars short of a MINI S do not have the thrill of the RX-8 round the bends.

 

Well then it's a good thing there aren't many cars shorter than a Mini.

 

That's funny, my Type-R is way more fun/thrilling and better performing than a Mini S John Cooper Works in a straight line and in the bends in every experience I've had with them on a variety of different race tracks.

 

Ahhh, once again going around spouting off about things you have no freaking clue about.

 

me too

 

+1 Especially if the OP would like a car with a remaining factory warranty. Look at '05+ Cooper S's. IIRC that was the first year they came with a front LSD.

With regards to the ITR...great car, BETTER than a Cooper S, but they're getting hard to find and are still a big target of car thieves. I personally wouldn't buy one unless I had a garage at home AND at my work.

For the peace of mind, a late model Cooper S is the only good FF option imho.

 

I would check out a used 2005 SRT-4 ACR if I were in your shoes. Dodge's resale horribly so it's very possible you'll find one for $15k-$17k. They handle incredibly well and the aftermarket power potential is amazing. If you're looking for AWD then a used Impreza WRX might be your best bet. I don't know a ton about the different issues to watch for in each model year but they're every bit as tunable as the SRT-4 engine and can be made to handle amazingly. Good luck!

 

You must be rubbing off on me.

 

Being denied is because it " looks too dangerous for an 18 y/o." I also feel they think the insurance will be rather high even though it would be under my fathers name since his company car isn't labeled as the primary driver. Why must this car look so nice

Bah

So after looking at cars newer then 2000 as thats a must ( they think its more reliable ) and my price range of about 15-17, i'm thinking theres only FF and some AWD cars out there for. I would take FR if i could but i dont see it happening when my choices would be cars like 350/s2k.

The rx8 was perfect for me... But now i'm looking at dc5's and civic si's. I hate the background of the cars but they do perform well, and as for the WRX i been looking at the safety and insurance costs and they're horrible. So no chance there. ITR is great but i think the dc5 looks nicer and it being newer will make it more appealing to my parents.

dam