Mini vs. VW vs. Mazda vs. Subaru

[dtmcnamara]

Ok looking at getting something fun to get me through the next few years of school. I am looking at the following:

Mini Cooper S Turbo

VW Jetta 2.0 Turbo

Mazda Mazdaspeed3 Turbo

Subaru WRX 2.5 Turbo


The price are as follow:

Mini $24000-27000

VW $23000-27000

Mazda $25000-28000

Subaru $25000-29000

I am looking for something fun, quick (not fast), and mainly something i will not get bored with fast. I am going to test drive all this weekend but was wondering what you would get. THANKS

[Hulud]

s2k

[JennB]

Personally... I like the Mazdaspeed 3. I know, I own a MINI but I own a supercharged 06... not the new turbo 07. My car is far easier to mod and faster than any 07 out there (though that may not be what you're looking for). I don't trust 1st year runs of completely redesigned cars. But... I haven't driven one yet. If you go drive one this weekend, let me know what you think. I'd like to hear the honest opinion of a non-MINI owner. The cars are fun as hell though. I like mine a lot. I've heard some good reviews so far.

The 3 is pretty freakin nice though. The one we saw at the dealership was stickered at $23K I think. Mazda makes a pretty study car.

The WRX isn't a bad car at all either... but I am just not a fan of VW's. Not saying anything bad about them really, they just don't do it for me. To me, a Jetta, even if it's turbo, is still a soccer mom, suburban yuppie girl car. :dunno:

[man]

I would go Mazda, probably the most reliable of the cars on the list.

[Kamikaze]

I would go Mazda, probably the most reliable of the cars on the list.

x2

[Julio]

I would go Mazda, probably the most reliable of the cars on the list.




:lmfao: you crazy... thats the worst of all... Even worst then VW. ;)

[man]

:lmfao: you crazy... thats the worst of all... Even worst then VW. ;)

:thinking:


A recent study run by independent automotive warranty specialist, Warranty Direct, looked at more than 450,000 vehicles, across 33 manufacturers, from the UK and the USA for reported mechanical failures. It found Mazda to be the most reliable car brand with almost 92% of its cars aged between 3 and 9 years to have suffered no mechanical failures of any type. The Japanese carmaker achieved a failure rate of just 8.04% to come out on top of a field where only two non-Asian based manufacturers made it into the top ten.

Below is a list of the top ten companies that had the lowest number of mechanical failures reported by policy holders for every 100 vehicles aged between three and nine years old. Interestingly, Kia proved more reliable than all the German brands and even financially stricken Mitsubishi reached a very respectable fourth.

1. Mazda 8.04

2. Honda 8.90

3. Toyota 15.78

4. Mitsubishi 17.04

5. Kia 17.39

6. Subaru 18.46

7. Nissan 18.86

8. Lexus 20.05

9. Mini 21.90

10. Citroën 25.98

At the other end of the scale, SUV manufacturers Jeep and Range Rover came out on the bottom of the ‘World’ reliability study. Worst still, a whopping 46% of large American SUVs recorded at least one mechanical failure during a given twelve-month period.

Follow the jump to see how all 33 manufacturers rated.

Table to illustrate the reliability ratings of 450,000 vehicles by manufacturer:

Manufacturer / Incidence Rate %

1 Mazda 8.04%
2 Honda 8.90%
3 Toyota 15.78%
4 Mitsubishi 17.04%
5 Kia 17.39%
6 Subaru 18.46%
7 Nissan 18.86%
8 Lexus 20.05%
9 Mini 21.90%
10 Citroen 25.98%
11 Daewoo 26.30%
12 Hyundai 26.36%
13 Peugeot 26.59%
14 Ford 26.76%
15 Suzuki 27.20%
16 Porsche 27.48%
17 Fiat 28.49%
18 BMW 28.64%
19 Vauxhall 28.77%
20 Mercedes 29.90%
21 Rover 30.12%
22 Volvo 31.28%
23 Volkswagen 31.44%
24 Jaguar 32.05%
25 Skoda 32.12%
26 Chrysler 34.90%
27 Audi 36.74%
28 Seat 36.87%
29 Renault 36.87%
30 Alfa Romeo 39.13%
31 Saab 41.59%
32 Land Rover 44.21%
33 Jeep 46.36%

[s13slider®]

i have driven a mini s and a wrx and i like both i have ridin in a vw it was crap havent didniether in a mazda but i love the way they look but it reall all depends on what you are looking for i drift so preberably i dont like any of them THAT much but AWD FTW go with the subaru

[Maniaç]

im very happy with my WRX... if you want maybe we can meet up and you can get to ride in my car... ill show you what a Stg II 06 can do. ;)

ps: JennB were you passing by satelillite blvd around 5pm-6pm? if so i saw your car and it looks really nice. +1

[Julio]

:thinking:



I dont know where you got it from......

But he you go.... http://www.jdpower.com/autos/brand-ratings/

As far as I JD is the most respected in the car industry...

and On top of that : I have owned 2 mazda's, Both were pieces of shit...

Are they better quality today ? Maybe... But according to JD power research MAZDA still sucks.

Looks like Lexus, Porche and Hyundai were top 3 or so... I dont see MAZDA...

[Julio]

BTW.. Only Mazda that I will respect is the MIATA... I have seen those motherfucker go for ever... Whatever they use in those they shouldve used in the rest of the other models =]

[man]

I dont know where you got it from......

But he you go.... http://www.jdpower.com/autos/brand-ratings/

As far as I JD is the most respected in the car industry...

and On top of that : I have owned 2 mazda's, Both were pieces of shit...

Are they better quality today ? Maybe... But according to JD power research MAZDA still sucks.

Looks like Lexus, Porche and Hyundai were top 3 or so... I dont see MAZDA...

If you read the link you posted, it simply states initial quality aka how it looks on the showroom. The list I posted is percentage of cars sold that were brought in for warranty work, a much better show of reliability. You honestly think Porsches and Lexuses are reliable?

[Doppelgänger]

because its made in Japan and not in parner with Ford.......

The Speed3 Looks to be a decent car though. I dont like that its a 5-door, would have much rather have seen it as a sedan. The numbers on the Speed3/Speed6 are nice too, im hearing that they're making good numbers at the wheel with bolt-on's.

I have had nothing but Mazdas since i have had a license. Starting with a B2200 truck (pre-ford) my RX-7 (shuddup Julio!!) and 2 Miatas. Hell, with 178k on the odo, i boosted the car @10psi with no problems.

The MINI is good too. But like my gf said, don't know how the Turbo MINI is going to be. It seems they went with a cheaper/weaker block and instead of marketing the car to more enthusiast , they are marketing it to more general people....like the VW Beetle.

Offer her something for the MINI, she might take you up on it ;)

[Doppelgänger]

ps: JennB were you passing by satelillite blvd around 5pm-6pm? if so i saw your car and it looks really nice. +1


Mini's are gay....
hmmmmm, so when i drive it, it's gay... but when you see it with her driving, its nice?

[OneSlow5pt0]

because its made in Japan and not in parner with Ford.......

The Speed3 Looks to be a decent car though. I dont like that its a 5-door, would have much rather have seen it as a sedan. The numbers on the Speed3/Speed6 are nice too, im hearing that they're making good numbers at the wheel with bolt-on's.

I have had nothing but Mazdas since i have had a license. Starting with a B2200 truck (pre-ford) my RX-7 (shuddup Julio!!) and 2 Miatas. Hell, with 178k on the odo, i boosted the car @10psi with no problems.

The MINI is good too. But like my gf said, don't know how the Turbo MINI is going to be. It seems they went with a cheaper/weaker block and instead of marketing the car to more enthusiast , they are marketing it to more general people....like the VW Beetle.

Offer her something for the MINI, she might take you up on it ;)

i like the 3s and 6s...and ofcourse RX-7s and Miata

[Crazy Asian]

Mini eh.. not enough power for me though 220 or somethign power not bad but eh. How do you scew a girl in a Mini?

[MidLifeCrisis]

+1 for the 3. i dont care for subarus or vws as far as quality.

ive been checking out that mazdaspeed3 and im very impressed with it. ive even considered trading in my honda on one. and btw, the prices ive seen for the mazda was like 22 and some change...

[Julio]

If you read the link you posted, it simply states initial quality aka how it looks on the showroom. The list I posted is percentage of cars sold that were brought in for warranty work, a much better show of reliability. You honestly think Porsches and Lexuses are reliable?

bhwhahahah .. do you own a mazda? More then likely.. ( screenname )

I wish someone would post the list again of the most reliable cars of 06.. ..

Showroom quality? hahahha.... no is not.


You think im going to believe MOTOR AUTHORITY??? hahaha.. C'mon.. they been around online... what ? A YEAR? hahahah

sorry man. IF mazda were SO GOOD they were be selling MORE.. why you think the mazdaspeeds are going for so cheap now a days??? they cant get them off the LOT.
But dont ask me.... you can go to the dealer yourself and see ;)

[twinj]

Do you plan on Modding it?

[JennB]

im very happy with my WRX... if you want maybe we can meet up and you can get to ride in my car... ill show you what a Stg II 06 can do. ;)

ps: JennB were you passing by satelillite blvd around 5pm-6pm? if so i saw your car and it looks really nice. +1

Yep, that was me. Thanks (I think). :goodjob: Though she reeeeeally needs a bath now.

[VooDooXII]

Mini's are very cool cars, but the short wheelbase gives it a bit of a rough ride. Jettas are solid cars with great build quality, but I personally don't like the way they look. If you can live with a Subaru, then more power to you. The Mazda seems really nice, plus it has way more space than a Mini...it may be your best bet.

[Crazy Asian]

I hate Jetta's with a heart. Seriously fuck man I hate that car with a burning passion. I just HATE IT!!!!

[Julio]

I honestly think all 4 of those cars would be great if properly maintained.
Just really depends what you want/plan on doing.

[man]

bhwhahahah .. do you own a mazda? More then likely.. ( screenname )

I wish someone would post the list again of the most reliable cars of 06.. ..

Showroom quality? hahahha.... no is not.


You think im going to believe MOTOR AUTHORITY??? hahaha.. C'mon.. they been around online... what ? A YEAR? hahahah

sorry man. IF mazda were SO GOOD they were be selling MORE.. why you think the mazdaspeeds are going for so cheap now a days??? they cant get them off the LOT.
But dont ask me.... you can go to the dealer yourself and see ;)

Yes I do have a Mazda and it's unreliable, but it's also 20 years old and the stock turbo motor lasted 140k miles. I've also owned a Honda, a Toyota, a Lexus, and a Ford. What's your point?

I never said anything abut them being good I stated simply that the newer models are reliable, that's it. How can someone post most reliable cars of 06? A list like that shouldn't even exist, how can you judge a car that's less than a year old?

And on the topic of pricing, supply and demand drives prices down. Just because people don't want to buy them doesn't mean they are bad cars. People buy the shit out of Land Rovers, Mercedes and Porches and they are some of the least reliable cars on the planet. The OP is in the market for a car in that range.

[Doppelgänger]

How do you scew a girl in a Mini?

Wouldn't you like to know...... :D

There is quite a nice sized back seat, but when thats no enough, throwing down the back seat makes for much more room........

[Julio]

Yes I do have a Mazda and it's unreliable, but it's also 20 years old and the stock turbo motor lasted 140k miles. I've also owned a Honda, a Toyota, a Lexus, and a Ford. What's your point?

I never said anything abut them being good I stated simply that the newer models are reliable, that's it. How can someone post most reliable cars of 06? A list like that shouldn't even exist, how can you judge a car that's less than a year old?

And on the topic of pricing, supply and demand drives prices down. Just because people don't want to buy them doesn't mean they are bad cars. People buy the shit out of Land Rovers, Mercedes and Porches and they are some of the least reliable cars on the planet. The OP is in the market for a car in that range.



My point is : You should know better.

The reason people dont buy them is because the HISTORY, they are known for: pieces of shit
They may be better built now.. But consumers are not dumb...
Some actually do research.
Yes, people buy landrovers, yes dumb if you ask me, because those are some of the worst vehicles.... But when/if you have the $$$ who cares about it. same with Mercedes.. but I will bet mercedes built better/quality cars then Mazda.

And if you are telling me MAZDA is more RELIABLE then LEXUS.. (Toyota)
Since you said " I think Porche and Lexus are reliable"

I will simply laugh my ass off and end this convo right here.

BTW.. Toyota Camry's BEST selling car in this country for how long? right... WHY?? LEXUS one of the best selling luxury cars in the USA, why ?
QUALITY man...................

[Nemesis]

For 29k you can get a used 05 STI.



/thread

[man]

BTW.. Toyota Camry's BEST selling car in this country for how long? right... WHY?? LEXUS one of the best selling luxury cars in the USA, why ?
QUALITY man...................

Do you see a Lexus/Toyota in the OP's poll?

And I had the Toyota and Lexus for a reason ;)

[Julio]

Do you see a Lexus/Toyota in the OP's poll?

And I had the Toyota and Lexus for a reason ;)


You are right.. They are not on the poll.. would be a smart choice if he did..

But I didnt post this either :

Originally Posted by MotorAutority
A recent study run by independent automotive warranty specialist, Warranty Direct, looked at more than 450,000 vehicles, across 33 manufacturers, from the UK and the USA for reported mechanical failures. It found Mazda to be the most reliable car brand with almost 92% of its cars aged between 3 and 9 years to have suffered no mechanical failures of any type. The Japanese carmaker achieved a failure rate of just 8.04% to come out on top of a field where only two non-Asian based manufacturers made it into the top ten.

Below is a list of the top ten companies that had the lowest number of mechanical failures reported by policy holders for every 100 vehicles aged between three and nine years old. Interestingly, Kia proved more reliable than all the German brands and even financially stricken Mitsubishi reached a very respectable fourth.

1. Mazda 8.04

2. Honda 8.90

3. Toyota 15.78

4. Mitsubishi 17.04

5. Kia 17.39

6. Subaru 18.46

7. Nissan 18.86

8. Lexus 20.05

9. Mini 21.90

10. Citroën 25.98

At the other end of the scale, SUV manufacturers Jeep and Range Rover came out on the bottom of the ‘World’ reliability study. Worst still, a whopping 46% of large American SUVs recorded at least one mechanical failure during a given twelve-month period.

Follow the jump to see how all 33 manufacturers rated.

Table to illustrate the reliability ratings of 450,000 vehicles by manufacturer:

Manufacturer / Incidence Rate %

1 Mazda 8.04%
2 Honda 8.90%
3 Toyota 15.78%
4 Mitsubishi 17.04%
5 Kia 17.39%
6 Subaru 18.46%
7 Nissan 18.86%
8 Lexus 20.05%
9 Mini 21.90%
10 Citroen 25.98%
11 Daewoo 26.30%
12 Hyundai 26.36%
13 Peugeot 26.59%
14 Ford 26.76%
15 Suzuki 27.20%
16 Porsche 27.48%
17 Fiat 28.49%
18 BMW 28.64%
19 Vauxhall 28.77%
20 Mercedes 29.90%
21 Rover 30.12%
22 Volvo 31.28%
23 Volkswagen 31.44%
24 Jaguar 32.05%
25 Skoda 32.12%
26 Chrysler 34.90%
27 Audi 36.74%
28 Seat 36.87%
29 Renault 36.87%
30 Alfa Romeo 39.13%
31 Saab 41.59%
32 Land Rover 44.21%
33 Jeep 46.36%




;) :crazy:

[man]

You are right.. They are not on the poll.. would be a smart choice if he did..

But I didnt post this either :

;) :crazy:

I understand what you're saying but seriously, this survey was conducted by an unbiased company (Warranty Direct, a 26 year old company. I just saw it on MA), and it's purely objective while JD Power, though a reputable source, is subjective in their comparisons and is a bit biased, notice how GMC, Ford, and Dodge all got the same scores as Hyundai and PORSCHE in "Features & Accessory Quality - Design" How can Mercedes, BMW, and Land Rover get two "dots" in that category?

Any way, I didn't vote in the poll because I think it's dumb to buy a car based on what others say and I don't want the poll to reflect my opinion.

[dtmcnamara]

Do you plan on Modding it?

more than likely a little mods here and there. maybe a upgraded turbo, full exhaust, intake, head(s), cam. Nothing HUGE, but want to have something FUN and not to much $$$ thats why all the cars a under $30. I want to spend a total of $30 on a car after all mods, maybe a little more or less all depends on the outcome once i start


For 29k you can get a used 05 STI.
Was also considering this too, but wanted to pay less for the car that this. maybe if i get a good deal, maybe something like between 25-27K. Just cannot afford the 29K price PLUS upgrades right now.

[Crazy Asian]

Tell me the SECRET!!! MINI Owneres must have a way to shag in the back.

[RandomGuy]

scooby AWD ftw... cheap, and responsive to mods

FUN TO DRIVE

versatile and practical :)

[JennB]

My car came in a covered trailer.

[Kamikaze]

I'd love to see some unbiased opinions on Mazda. I've seen many approaching the 250K mile mark on the same engine which is why I still have mine. ;) But I guess there will be haters everywhere; you can't please everyone.

[Ran]

Mazdaspeed3 gets my vote. Very quick and with intake, exhaust, and boost controller you can be at 300HP easy. Also, standard pricing on an MS3 Sport Model is only like $23K before tax, tag, and title. That's what the guys at Jim Ellis Mazda on US41 were trying to sell me one for. :goodjob:

[kfzemx3]

Mazdaspeed3 gets my vote. Very quick and with intake, exhaust, and boost controller you can be at 300HP easy. Also, standard pricing on an MS3 Sport Model is only like $23K before tax, tag, and title. That's what the guys at Jim Ellis Mazda on US41 were trying to sell me one for. :goodjob:


Well thats the mazdaspeed 3 sport not the mazdaspeed 3 gt, which really isnt all that different but it comes with the hid headlights, navigation, and i'm not sure if its like the mazdaspeed 6, but if you didnt get the gt you dont get the black with red stitch leather interior.

I have looked at the GT and it was amazing, almost bought it, i just needed to get a fex extra dollers up, but anyway the gt is about 3-4k more, but since its only a lil more i think its worth it for what you get

[fight club]

search for a used sti. mine was abused as fuck and still had NO problems. you can get an 04-05 with low mileage for under 25k now. not to mention with exhaust and a tune you'll be at 300whp/over 300wft/lbs. plus awd > all.

EDIT: 2 minutes of searching found 3 under 24k. :goodjob:

[Ran]

Well thats the mazdaspeed 3 sport not the mazdaspeed 3 gt, which really isnt all that different but it comes with the hid headlights, navigation, and i'm not sure if its like the mazdaspeed 6, but if you didnt get the gt you dont get the black with red stitch leather interior.

I have looked at the GT and it was amazing, almost bought it, i just needed to get a fex extra dollers up, but anyway the gt is about 3-4k more, but since its only a lil more i think its worth it for what you getThe Sport model has the black/red interior as well. Not sure if it's leather or not, but I hate leather interiors anyway. The only differences I know of are the HID taillights, rain-sensing windshield wipers, Bose speakers, and some other unnecessary crap. IMO, the extra $4K isn't worth it but that's just me.

A black MS3 with the black trim headlights and tails would look f*cking hot on some black rims w/ polished lip. :goodjob:

[Maniaç]

Yep, that was me. Thanks (I think). :goodjob: Though she reeeeeally needs a bath now.

yeah... she does need a bath... cool Mini though.. thats one of the best looking Mini's ive seen. got a very quick glance at you.. and i must say this.... a girl looks really hot with shades on. L0L

are you white or asian? (i think you should pm me instead of postin in here again).

[JennB]

Must have been a really quick glance cause I don't remember putting on my sunglasses yesterday... hmmm....

Sure it was my MINI? Pics are in the link in my sig (and for anyone else who wants to see how nice these cars can look when done right)

I'm white.... dark hair but definately not asian.

[Maniaç]

well you do have tint on your car right.... from what i saw... id say.... 20% maybe lower....
i only saw you for like a sec. but what ever! nice car! ok ..... later. L0L

[Doppelgänger]

yeah... she does need a bath... cool Mini though.. thats one of the best looking Mini's ive seen. got a very quick glance at you.. and i must say this.... a girl looks really hot with shades on. L0L

are you white or asian? (i think you should pm me instead of postin in here again).\

yeah, she's pretty white..definatly not asian.. i would know ;)
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/126/376754350_eef4ba458d.jpg?v=1170951221

[HachiDori]

I would go Mazda, probably the most reliable of the cars on the list.


If it doesnt come with a rotary. hahah

[Kamikaze]

If it doesnt come with a rotary. hahah

The engine isn't the problem. It's the uninformed owners that don't know how to maintain them.

[Julio]

I'd love to see some unbiased opinions on Mazda. I've seen many approaching the 250K mile mark on the same engine which is why I still have mine. ;) But I guess there will be haters everywhere; you can't please everyone.



Since I was the one bashing MAZDA (older models).....

I'm guessing you calling me a hater....

Now, explain to me, why would I be hatting? Please......... :lmfao:

[Kamikaze]

Since I was the one bashing MAZDA (older models).....

I'm guessing you calling me a hater....

Now, explain to me, why would I be hatting? Please......... :lmfao:

I don't know how you would be "hatting" but I'll explain the hating. ;)

First of all, I don't even see how you could bash the older models since those were pretty much bullet proof. The only time Mazda's reliability could be questioned is when the famous Found On Road Dead company put their shitty parts on Mazda cars. And even then, all the models weren't affected. If Mazdas are so unreliable, how do you explain the ones that make it to 250K+ miles? I've even quite a few Mazda designed KLDE engines (found on the MX6, 626, and Probe) with 300K on them.

But like I said, there will always be haters or whatever you want to call them. It's impossible to like every automaker. But to say that VW is more reliable than Mazda, give me a break. We used to have a Jetta. That car had more electrical problems than any other car we've ever owned. But I expected you to say that considering you own an Audi. You can't help but be a fan of what you drive which is why I like Mazda (and Toyota) so much.

Hope that cleared it up for you. :)

[Julio]

I don't know how you would be "hatting" but I'll explain the hating. ;)

First of all, I don't even see how you could bash the older models since those were pretty much bullet proof. The only time Mazda's reliability could be questioned is when the famous Found On Road Dead company put their shitty parts on Mazda cars. And even then, all the models weren't affected. If Mazdas are so unreliable, how do you explain the ones that make it to 250K+ miles? I've even quite a few Mazda designed KLDE engines (found on the MX6, 626, and Probe) with 300K on them.

But like I said, there will always be haters or whatever you want to call them. It's impossible to like every automaker. But to say that VW is more reliable than Mazda, give me a break. We used to have a Jetta. That car had more electrical problems than any other car we've ever owned. But I expected you to say that considering you own an Audi. You can't help but be a fan of what you drive which is why I like Mazda (and Toyota) so much.

Hope that cleared it up for you. :)


Still doesnt explain.. why im hatting....... Im speaking TRUTH based on EXPERIENCE. I have owned 2 MAZDA's... a 626 and a MX-3... BOTH PIECES OF SHIT. Maybe not enough to justify me saying they suck.. But enough based on personal experience.
My Brother used to own a 626... Piece of shit... My cousin used to Own a 626 piece of shit...
And we wont even go into the RX7 shit... even though they are NICE Looking cars.. They suck.....

I would consider someone hatting/hatter someone who can't have or own something.... and decides to talk shit about it. Simply a jealous person.

I never said VW's dont break down.. BUT BASED on PERSONAL experience, I havent had any issues with my AUDI and know a few people with VW's and AUDI and havent had any issues. But I'm Not saying it wont fuck up And BTW, Im willing to bet I give my AUDI more heat then your 626.. you probably got it to look "PRETTY" fuc* all that. .. because seriously, what else can you do with it.

Ok, you can count in one hand how many Mazda's are out thre with 250K+ miles still driving....

But really, Who cares.. Theres plenty of Chevy, fords, Vw's, Hondas, Yotas and so on with that many miles so you are not saying nothing :rolleyes:

Lucky you own a Scion to pick up the slack when your 626 decides to blow a head gasket or tranny starts slipping if it hasnt already...

haha thats why a Got a Toyota also... just incase the Audi (VW) decides to take a crapper, so is ok man... :lmfao:

[4dmin]

i have never understood people talking shit about cars they have never owned or have experience in... i've owned 5 VW, 3 hondohs, 3 fords, 1 benz, 1 saturn, etc... i never had any issues w/ any VW i've owned that wasn't minor and if i did have an issue it was due to trying to make more power or a possible recall for something minor... i can name people throughout atlanta who have had issues w/ every single make it doesn't matter what you drive.

Mini Cooper is a cute car... cute is the keyword it just isn't fast enough!

VW Jetta i personally think the new body is ugly (i would only drive the GLI) but the 2.0t is well capable of make 350whp on a stock block daily driven and it will make that power cheaper then probably the other makes w/ the audi turbo + software ;)

Mazdaspeed3 i dont care for the look of it but mazda is really come around making some good products, but i know quite a few guys who have had lots of issues w/ their boosted mazdas from tranny/motor issues.... so i'm not sure how stout that power plant is under lots of boost.

wrx = awd which is great and they have been known to make great power but i don't know how reliable they are... for as many as i have seen modded i've seen just as many for sale which can be good/bad

in the end i will always buy a euro over a japanese/american make, to me it is just a better product, call me a euro nazi i don't care i like my heated seats :goodjob:

[Kamikaze]

Still doesnt explain.. why im hatting....... Im speaking TRUTH based on EXPERIENCE. I have owned 2 MAZDA's... a 626 and a MX-3... BOTH PIECES OF SHIT. Maybe not enough to justify me saying they suck.. But enough based on personal experience.
My Brother used to own a 626... Piece of shit... My cousin used to Own a 626 piece of shit...

And I bet they were 4cyl automatics with the CD4E tranny which was designed and implemented by Ford, not Mazda.


And we wont even go into the RX7 shit... even though they are NICE Looking cars.. They suck.....

Exactly why I don't have one. It's not because of the car, it's the owners that don't know how to take care of them.


I never said VW's dont break down.. BUT BASED on PERSONAL experience, I havent had any issues with my AUDI and know a few people with VW's and AUDI and havent had any issues. But I'm Not saying it wont fuck up

Guess your luck is better than mine.


And BTW, Im willing to bet I give my AUDI more heat then your 626.. you probably got it to look "PRETTY" fuc* all that. .. because seriously, what else can you do with it.

That's one of the main reasons I have one. How often do you see a 626 that's been done up? I like being unique and not going with the crowd. You learn to appreciate the mods you do to your car because there aren't a million aftermarket companies making parts for your car.


But really, Who cares.. Theres plenty of Chevy, fords, Vw's, Hondas, Yotas and so on with that many miles so you are not saying nothing :rolleyes:

You're not saying much either, buddy. Just giving your OPINION just like I am.


Lucky you own a Scion to pick up the slack when your 626 decides to blow a head gasket or tranny starts slipping if it hasnt already...

I doubt that will ever happen.


haha thats why a Got a Toyota also... just incase the Audi (VW) decides to take a crapper, so is ok man... :lmfao:

Hey it's all good. I don't get worked up over the int3rnetz. :goodjob:

[Kamikaze]

i have never understood people talking shit about cars they have never owned or have experience in... i've owned 5 VW, 3 hondohs, 3 fords, 1 benz, 1 saturn, etc... i never had any issues w/ any VW i've owned that wasn't minor and if i did have an issue it was due to trying to make more power or a possible recall for something minor... i can name people throughout atlanta who have had issues w/ every single make it doesn't matter what you drive.

I don't know if you were referring to me, but I have experience with Toyota/Scion, Nissan, Mazda, VW, Lincoln, Jeep, Hyundai, Cadillac, GMC, Chevy, and Honda/Acura. So yeah, I can talk about American, Japanese, and European cars.

And you're right. Every automaker has its problems which is why I don't understand how people can say a certain one sucks.

[4dmin]

I don't know if you were referring to me, but I have experience with Toyota/Scion, Nissan, Mazda, VW, Lincoln, Jeep, Hyundai, Cadillac, GMC, Chevy, and Honda/Acura. So yeah, I can talk about American, Japanese, and European cars.

And you're right. Every automaker has its problems which is why I don't understand how people can say a certain one sucks.

wow you do oil changes on all of those makes... unless your a VW tech or you have owned multiple i wouldn't call you a reputable source for that make; along w/ any other. ;)

and out of all of the car makes you listed i would only own maybe 2 of what you have listed... :goodjob:

but there is a distinct difference in makes... if there wasn't we would all be drivng Aveo's, Accents, or any other 10k car anyone can make... i drive euro's b/c they look better, have torque, and have an excellent reputation for class/luxury.

[Kamikaze]

wow you do oil changes on all of those makes... unless your a VW tech or you have owned multiple i wouldn't call you a reputable source for that make; along w/ any other. ;)

Never said I was an expert. I was just speaking from experience.


and out of all of the car makes you listed i would only own maybe 2 of what you have listed... :goodjob:

That's just awesome.


but there is a distinct difference in makes... if there wasn't we would all be drivng Aveo's, Accents, or any other 10k car anyone can make... i drive euro's b/c they look better, have torque, and have an excellent reputation for class/luxury.

Yeah but with proper maintenance, any car can be reliable (besides the occasional lemon that EVERY automaker produces).

[4dmin]

Never said I was an expert. I was just speaking from experience.



That's just awesome.



Yeah but with proper maintenance, any car can be reliable (besides the occasional lemon that EVERY automaker produces).

:goodjob: +25

[Julio]

And I bet they were 4cyl automatics with the CD4E tranny which was designed and implemented by Ford, not Mazda.



Exactly why I don't have one. It's not because of the car, it's the owners that don't know how to take care of them.



Guess your luck is better than mine.



That's one of the main reasons I have one. How often do you see a 626 that's been done up? I like being unique and not going with the crowd. You learn to appreciate the mods you do to your car because there aren't a million aftermarket companies making parts for your car.



You're not saying much either, buddy. Just giving your OPINION just like I am.



I doubt that will ever happen.



Hey it's all good. I don't get worked up over the int3rnetz. :goodjob:





My 626 was a 4 banger and the MX-3 was a V6.. GS.

4 cylinder or not, they sucked. Everyone always uses the excuse your using.. ahh.. trying ot be diffrent and blah blah.... If you want to be diffrent.. By an exotic or something that we dont see everyday....
I can get on cardomain and I bet I can find a few 626's

Be diffrent, thats cool.. but in my eyes.. The mazda "I" owned were junks... especially the 626...

And Im not saying much ? haha.. If im not saying much why you replying then? ;)

But hey... Blame ford all you want......But I see more fords in the rodes then I do mazda with higher miles....... They might not be running that great.. but they are still going....... :lmfao:

[Kamikaze]

I can get on cardomain and I bet I can find a few 626's

Yeah I bet you could since they've been making them since 1979.


Be diffrent, thats cool.. but in my eyes.. The mazda "I" owned were junks... especially the 626...

Oh well. Maybe the car didn't like you lol.


And Im not saying much ? haha.. If im not saying much why you replying then? ;)

I have nothing better to do so this helps pass the time. ;)


But hey... Blame ford all you want......But I see more fords in the rodes then I do mazda with higher miles....... They might not be running that great.. but they are still going....... :lmfao:

Yeah I guess that would be the case considering for every 1 Mazda produced, there are like 20 Fords produced. :screwy:

[Julio]

Yeah I bet you could since they've been making them since 1979.



Oh well. Maybe the car didn't like you lol.



I have nothing better to do so this helps pass the time. ;)



Yeah I guess that would be the case considering for every 1 Mazda produced, there are like 20 Fords produced. :screwy:


face it.

[IDCoconut]

Kill me now, but I'd get the Jetta. The new GLI's look great and would be a good car just to drive around in, and the power is not bad. I'm a German fan that like VW/Audi's and Porsches, so my opinion on them is very biased.

About the Mazda comments going on, it's really one's definition of "peice of shit." Anyone can call anything a peice of shit. Some people have a slight bit of problem and will automatically call it a peice of shit. I've owned a 94 Mazda B3000 (ford ranger) and a 92 B2200 (pre-ford). Both of these trucks were very reliable and depending on what you consider a "problem," to me these never had a big problem, and one was bagged. Proper maintenance is key in cars, but there are certain things an owner really cannot help.

I'm not taking anyone's side, but here's my opinion on total mileage. Total mileage relies mainly on owner maintenance. You really can't blame the manufacturer for some of these cars that just don't get maintained and break down. It's also how owners treat/drive their cars. You can't go zooming, redlining around everywhere with your 15,000mile old oil and not expect engine life/part failure chances to decrease.

[Kamikaze]

I'm not taking anyone's side, but here's my opinion on total mileage. Total mileage relies mainly on owner maintenance. You really can't blame the manufacturer for some of these cars that just don't get maintained and break down. It's also how owners treat/drive their cars. You can't go zooming, redlining around everywhere with your 15,000mile old oil and not expect engine life/part failure chances to decrease.

+1

[Dark.GEAR]

i wish everyone would STOP READING statistics that probably aren't very accurate and do some real research. Talk to owners who owns one, visit forums, something! I don't know too much about the cars listed but I can tell you one thing!

Mazdaspeed 3 has alot of power...maybe a little too much!
Motor mounts are snapping left and right with only a couple thousand miles on the cars. Don't believe me, go visit the forums or search google. So unless you plan on buying some aftermarket mounts or want to risk the chances don't get a MS3 just yet. Wait a year or 2 so they can address the issue and then make a decision! I would go with a MS3 if they ever resolve the issue.

[Doppelgänger]

Mini Cooper is a cute car... cute is the keyword it just isn't fast enough!


I find this very funny. I know manjority of the MINI S owners are older and less likely to 'get into it' on the streets, and i garuntee you that ver FEW people on this board have had personal expirence with one. I find them to be quite fast for sure. I've had Jenn's S up to about 140 and it was still pulling. I guess its because its not been a "tuner" make for a long time that no one really looks at these cars like Honduhs and Nissans. Not to mention that i out ran a group of cars on a mtn run including a E46 M3 that was getting the shit beat out of it trying to keep up.

[Julio]

I find this very funny. I know manjority of the MINI S owners are older and less likely to 'get into it' on the streets, and i garuntee you that ver FEW people on this board have had personal expirence with one. I find them to be quite fast for sure. I've had Jenn's S up to about 140 and it was still pulling. I guess its because its not been a "tuner" make for a long time that no one really looks at these cars like Honduhs and Nissans. Not to mention that i out ran a group of cars on a mtn run including a E46 M3 that was getting the shit beat out of it trying to keep up.



People look more at these factors now a days...
What car makes more power w/ less money? What car gets/has more aftermarket support? What cars are easier to mod.. etc etc
I think thats what people look at the most. I think thats why It hasnt been in out there as much...


Bottom line is.. any car has potential... question is .. HOW MUCH MONEY YOU WANT TO SPEND...

and thats where we get burnt... hahahahaha

I dont know how much power You girls MINI has.. But I drove one with like 160hp and like 180 tq.. shit was nuts.. .. He had the a built motor in that shit.. old school Mini.... I can only imagine how much fun a 200hp+ one would be...

[Julio]

i wish everyone would STOP READING statistics that probably aren't very accurate and do some real research. Talk to owners who owns one, visit forums, something! I don't know too much about the cars listed but I can tell you one thing!

Mazdaspeed 3 has alot of power...maybe a little too much!
Motor mounts are snapping left and right with only a couple thousand miles on the cars. Don't believe me, go visit the forums or search google. So unless you plan on buying some aftermarket mounts or want to risk the chances don't get a MS3 just yet. Wait a year or 2 so they can address the issue and then make a decision! I would go with a MS3 if they ever resolve the issue.


we were talking about older mazda really..... and some of us did owned / own older mazda's.

[JennB]

People look more at these factors now a days...
What car makes more power w/ less money? What car gets/has more aftermarket support? What cars are easier to mod.. etc etc
I think thats what people look at the most. I think thats why It hasnt been in out there as much...


Bottom line is.. any car has potential... question is .. HOW MUCH MONEY YOU WANT TO SPEND...

and thats where we get burnt... hahahahaha

I dont know how much power You girls MINI has.. But I drove one with like 160hp and like 180 tq.. shit was nuts.. .. He had the a built motor in that shit.. old school Mini.... I can only imagine how much fun a 200hp+ one would be...


It's right at 200HP at the crank and costs a whole lot less than you think to get there. A pulley upgrade and intake and there you are. Upgrading the pulley on this car made it feel amazingly stronger than stock. I have suspension mods, exterior styling, all kinds of things done to it. 200HP fells really nice in a car that light. Of course to go higher now is where the expense starts... I want an exhaust but they start at about $850. Of course a shop could make a custom one for less, I know a lot of people who have done that. There are tons of mods out there for the 2006 (my year) and older cars... there are even a few 400HP+ ones. The 07's have just about nothing available for them right now.

I'm currently contemplating keeping it and going faster or selling it and getting something cheaper that I can play with a lot more.

So to the orignal poster, if you want to buy one thats already modded... heeheh :goodjob:

[Vteckidd]

all the cars on that list suck.

Mini Cooper-No thanks, cute car, not a bad daily, but def not a performance machine
MazdaSpeed3- Hasnt been out long enough for me to thinkk it will not break.
VW- its German, FUCK NO
Subaru-the only car i would buy in this list, but they are a pain in the ass to work on, boxer motors dont excite me. I do think they are great cars, but expensive and hard to work on.

If i had to buy a brand new car, im sorry, it would be a Pontiac GTO with the LS2.

[oasis0124]

u left out rsx type s

[iloveboost]

I'd get the Subaru out of that list. For that money, I'd get a used STi.

All of the other options are girl cars.

[koukis14]

Car and Driver recently tested the Mazda Speed3, the Mazda engineers told them to flat foot shift it to ge the best times. This is shifting without lifting off the gas. They did this...for weeks, and the car never had one problem.

[bomjoon]

get you a new evo 9 rs for 27k
evo> wrx> 3> mini> crap(VW).
end of discussion.

evo beats all in everyway. well all but price but sine you are looking for the below 29k range id go for the evo.

[bomjoon]

oh sorry about the "crap(vw)" make that ..... "(vw)audi wanna be".

[blackshine007]

I heard that the new '07 mini's are harder to make fast. Looking at the room under the hood, I see their point. I think the easiest thing to replace would by far be the Front O2 sensor on top of the downpipe on the S models. And the spark plugs would be a close second.That's about it.

I buy cars that are easier to work on. Then I go on looks. Don't get me wrong, I love my Mazda's, especially the 626 (hell, I own one now) but I flat out refuse to even co-own the 626 & MX6 (Ford Probe included) 4 banger atx. Any year, take your pick. That Ford Trans is for a lack of words, garbage. I'm trying my best to come up with better ways to make it more reliable, but honestly, I can't. Any other model, I'll own. I've owned 3 626's (2 4banger, 5 speed's, first died at 179k courtesy of a tree, the next at 255k thanx to my lil sis) And aside from sceduled maintenence, I had no problem out of any of them. Truth be known, I'll have another one in about a month or so, 626 ES V6 atx fully loaded.

I'm not knocking anyone on their preference of vehicles, that's all fine and dandy. You buy it as an expression of how you view your self. In one person's eyes, a car is viewed as ugly, crappy and/or the biggest piece of shit alive. But to another person, it either means "hidden treasure" or only means of transportation til they get enough to buy the car they wanted. I view my car as a hidden treasure. It satifies me. If you don't like my car, don't look at it. If I don't like yours, I won't look at yours. That's what make me happy.

And on a final note, I work on cars for a living, and I could count on 1 hand the vehicles that chrysler has built that I would consider working on. And some of the newer ones are not on that list. Neons are cool cars, but I refuse to do a timing belt on one. Hell, any car with that 2.0L or 2.4L DOHC I will flat out NOT TOUCH! What where they thinking when they designed the cars? Well, the Caravan with that 2.4L isn't that bad, but that's the exception. Some of the VW's are a PITA as well. Any car that requires the whole front end to come off just for a timing belt & water pump was shot off my list of ownership right from the beginning. Any A4/ Passat owners here? Also, VW parts are a bit on the pricey side. but other than that, easier to work on than the Chryslers. I could go on and on........... Damn, I forgot my point.......

[blackshine007]

Oh yeah, I was summarizing the vehicles in question......

The Subaru's are nice. I won't say that they're hard to work on, just there's a trick to working on them. Very nice layout in the engine bay. I'm not too hooked on having to disconnect the engine mounts to do a tune up (DOHC engines), but they're simple cars. The alternator, A/C and P/S pumps sit right on top. I've owned 4 subaru's total and the old ones are tough, hands down. I like the fact that with the old ones, that you could change the oil pump with an oil change in 15 minutes. Spark plugs on top, Hell, even the spare tire under the hood! The engines were light enough that you and a buddy could (without the "cherry picker") take the engine out and set it on the ground. I'd own a subaru now, but parts for this side of the country have to be ordered and takes longer than usual. Truth be known, if parts were more widespread, I'd be in a '94 or '95 Legacy 2.5GT wagon. So my next best bet was the Mazda...... been hooked since.

BTW, I picked the MS3, Those are fun cars to drive with a solid engine. I've driven the VW GLI, and was quite impressed. But like I mentioned, parts and price.

[C.A.T.A.P]

Yo I have a mazda speed 3 and I love it so much!!!!!!!! That is the car to go with. You can do so much with it plus it gets great gas miles in the city and highway.

[Brown Man]

vDUB all the way...no, sorry, i would go with the wrx

[atlxpat]

i like my wrx, only bad thing is the gas mileage, i'd be on the ms3 bandwagon if it were awd or rwd. subarus are very reliable if you treat it with respect, vw and mini would be rather expensive for parts and service compared to ms3 and wrx.
have you considered a gti or civic si?

[4dmin]

wow diggin up an old thread....


oh sorry about the "crap(vw)" make that ..... "(vw)audi wanna be".

this is the dumbest statement ever... so i guess audi is a bentley wanna be which is a lambo wanna be which is a bugatti wanna be??? oh ya they are all vw :yes: ID10t!

euro crap :lmfao: atleast VW actually has exotic lines :tongue1: