Tuner Starter Car

[B3AST]

Alright guys, currently I have a ford thunderbird which I really don't want to mod it that much. I rather just leave it as a DD or sell it, so I want to get a car that I want to mod its just kind of hard to make a choice on something that I dont know to much about. So it would be appreciated if you guys could help me choose a starter car that won't really break the bank but I'm not really into getting a civic even though that is probably the best choice its just that you see so many of them over done with big ass fart cans. So any suggestions will be appreciated.

[Turbodude06]

civic LOL!!!!!!! I've always liked accords but its hard to find a two door 5 speed one......

[uproot]

you could get a civic, and not do the fart can thing lol...


just depends on what your goals are and what you want to do with the car.... some cars will have good engines to start with, others you'll probably want to swap the engine... also depends on how much work/time you want to put into it

[Turbodude06]

although eclipses aren't bad I just think civic's are more reliable.....

[B3AST]

damn, fast replies!! and thx for the advice

[B3AST]

whats the problem with eclipse's? all I read of was crank walk...

[Z32redondo]

MR2's are pretty nice wellrounded cars. Turbo is pretty fast. RWD, as well as lightweight. Turbo would respond pretty nicely to mods, as well as some being targa topped.

[Turbodude06]

whats the problem with eclipse's? all I read of was crank walk...

Its just not a honda:dunno:

-but no their pretty good cars and u can pick them up cheap and parts are very cheap too.....

[B3AST]

Its just not a honda:dunno:

-but no their pretty good cars and u can pick them up cheap and parts are very cheap too.....

are we a little biased?LOL

[Turbodude06]

LOL

[91ma70]

get a mr2 its somthing most people dont have and has good aftermarket support

[japan4racing]

lol at tuner cars....makes em sound like toys when you call em that. the best import for you imho is the honda civic simply becuase of the knowlege out there and the huge aftermarket support and ease of swaps. not say the others cars are bad but i just think the easiest way to do things is with a honda

[OneSlow5pt0]

MR2s are light?

the mk1 are and MR2-S are but not the mk2 mr2..........get 6th gen celica and do a GT4 swap u will be making close to 300HP

also for 3k could get a RX-7

[Z32redondo]

MR2s are light?

the mk1 are and MR2-S are but not the mk2 mr2..........get 6th gen celica and do a GT4 swap u will be making close to 300HP

also for 3k could get a RX-7

LOL both my cars are 4000 lbs or more so ya that is light. You could also pick up a MK3 supra turbo for around 3K.

[Deke]

Does it have to be an import? If you want something fast and cheap how about an older 5.0 Mustang? Not sayign that they are great cars or anything, but you can make them really fast for pretty damn cheap. Also they have a pretty traditional setup and would make a great car for learning how to wrench. [Puts on flame suit]

[OneSlow5pt0]

LOL both my cars are 4000 lbs or more so ya that is light. You could also pick up a MK3 supra turbo for around 3K.

lol,iv never driven a car that weighs over 2900

[Z32redondo]

Does it have to be an import? If you want something fast and cheap how about an older 5.0 Mustang? Not sayign that they are great cars or anything, but you can make them really fast for pretty damn cheap. Also they have a pretty traditional setup and would make a great car for learning how to wrench. [Puts on flame suit]

Actually this would be the best way to go now that i think of it. V8's respond very nicely to mods and a 5.0 would be fast. Or something like a Irok-Z would be nice. If you can find one with a 350 you will be set.

[Z32redondo]

lol,iv never driven a car that weighs over 2900

ya the 300 weighs in at like 39xx something and the truck is like...well im not getting into that.:screwy:

[OneSlow5pt0]

ya the 300 weighs in at like 39xx something and the truck is like...well im not getting into that.:screwy:

:eek: ..i like those cars,but damn..thats to heavy for me.

also probbly could get a Miata for around 3k.....

[91ma70]

mk3s are 35xxlbs

[Z32redondo]

mk3s are 35xxlbs

For a 4 seated turbo V6 ya and it can pull that weight.

Also to add my friend has a older miata that has some nice suspension upgrades and it can whoop some ass in the twisties. Just depends on what you want to do with your project car i guess.

[91ma70]

turbos can but the n/a is slow

[OneSlow5pt0]

turbos can but the n/a is slow

slow when compared to what?

a civic? then no

[91ma70]

top speed on them is good the n/a suck at Accelerating

[Jecht]

I would go with a CRX. I'm not big on the looks of them but you can't ignore the fact that you can swap a B-series into it and it weighs so little.

[CSquared]

You're most likely not going to find a reliable/buildable mk3 supra for 3k or under... Scratch that off the list as a first unless you have a shitload of time and money to spend, and have a good amount of automotive knowledge... They are testy as fuck and i wouldn't recommend it (speaking from experience).

[CSquared]

For a 4 seated turbo V6 ya and it can pull that weight.

Also to add my friend has a older miata that has some nice suspension upgrades and it can whoop some ass in the twisties. Just depends on what you want to do with your project car i guess.

You talking about the supra?

If so... straight six my friend :goodjob:


turbos can but the n/a is slow

Once again if you are talking about the mk3's

mk3 turbos run 15's.
mk3 NAs run 16's.

Either way not too shabby, but i wouldnt waste my time buying an n/a car when there is a stock turbo version...

[Z32redondo]

You talking about the supra?

If so... straight six my friend :goodjob:



Once again if you are talking about the mk3's

mk3 turbos run 15's.
mk3 NAs run 16's.

Either way not too shabby, but i wouldnt waste my time buying an n/a car when there is a stock turbo version...

Ya i know is a straight 6 i just didnt want to get technical. And i am used to muscle cars so i use slant 6. But same thing. As far as the MK3 Supra though. It is nice and i have seen a few go for 3K turbo but no targa. I like it because it is in fact a turbo car but also came with a 1JZ twin turbo engine in JDM land. Making a twin turbo swap some what easy. As well as the infamous 2JZ swap going around. But thats if you truely want a project car and dont mind saving some money after you buy the car for an engine swap.

I dont get too detailed into supra's more so 300zx's but i believe people are swapping the 1jz head and 2jz block and internals and running them like this. Because of the bottom end of the 2JZ being able to hold alot power on stock internals. I dont know if thats what it was or if it was something else but i heard they call it a 1.5jz or something. Dont quote me on any of that though.

[Z32redondo]

You're most likely not going to find a reliable/buildable mk3 supra for 3k or under... Scratch that off the list as a first unless you have a shitload of time and money to spend, and have a good amount of automotive knowledge... They are testy as fuck and i wouldn't recommend it (speaking from experience).

And ya he's right, my dad had 3 of them.

[sleepys4]

Eclipse GST or GSX. 1993-1994 or 1997-1999

[sleepys4]

Or 1991 6bolt/4bolt can't go wrong.

[Driftk1d350z]

id juts get a 240 because they're cheap, there are a lot of parts for them, and they're RWD

[OneSlow5pt0]

since i only paid $1200 for my RX-7 w/ 60k miles.i think u could find a good one for that,or maybe a T2 that needs little work

[Driftk1d350z]

yeah RX-7 is good too

yo just dont want to be "another civic"

[Driftk1d350z]

but then again 240s are becomming common also:ninja:

[R_Rated]

also look at a jetta/golf with the 1.8T motor. Most easily tunable motor out there!

[cactusEG]

start off with a honda

[B3AST]

Does it have to be an import? If you want something fast and cheap how about an older 5.0 Mustang? Not sayign that they are great cars or anything, but you can make them really fast for pretty damn cheap. Also they have a pretty traditional setup and would make a great car for learning how to wrench. [Puts on flame suit]

only problem with that is I'm 16 and a Mustang especially with a v8 is going to be hell on insurance(and gas) so I'd rather start with a motor thats just a wii bit smaller than a 5.0L V-8 LOL

[greasemunkey]

go with an old bmw, like a 1986. ive driven a 5-speed 3 series of that year and they are alot quicker than i thought and it was completely stock, and you don't see a modded bmw's to often and the body style looks great IMO

[B3AST]

yeah I been looking at those but it just seems hard to find one in alright shape or is it just me?

[greasemunkey]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/BMW-3-Series-Red-325-BMW-Coupe-Gas-Mileage-Queen-NO-RESERVE_W0QQitemZ140135889182QQihZ004QQcategoryZ60 07QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
try this...i know its ebay, but helluva clean bmw that will probly sell for 2k and i think they are 2.7L 6-cylinder=fun, and in the future you could turbo it...i want one now damn

[B3AST]

damn thats clean, but how old do you have to be to have a paypal account? You need one to bid right?

[greasemunkey]

just get ur parents to do it if ur not 18...

[B3AST]

that might be a problem with my dad b/c he bought me my t-bird and now I'm on my on with this kind of stuff. I mean I can ask but I'm 99.9% sure ebay is out of the question.

[compufreak21]

Dude get a 240sx...fun cars...ive had hondas (have a '03 s2000 now) and ive had nissans (both a '92 240sx and '93 300zx). The 240sx was prob the most fun to drive out of all of them (besides the s2000 ;) ) but its your decision. Parts are cheap on the 240 and they are just as reliable as hondas imo. plus you have the option of either swapping in an rb (cheap option) or sr (better option) or turboing the KA motor (also fun!). You can pick up a decent 240sx for around 2 grand which gives you about 1k leftover to play with! I saw a decent s14 for sale for $2900 in the for sale thread. Already kitted and tinted and painted black.

[OneSlow5pt0]

if u worried bout insurance,i was 17 with my 7 and insurance was low as hell

[Deke]

only problem with that is I'm 16 and a Mustang especially with a v8 is going to be hell on insurance(and gas) so I'd rather start with a motor thats just a wii bit smaller than a 5.0L V-8 LOL

Haha, true. I didn't consider the insurance factor. My first car was a 68' mustang with a 302 (aka 5.0L), and the insurance wasn't too bad (although I also didn't have full coverage). It definitely helped me learn a lot of the basics.

Since you're looking for a smaller engined car (which really probably is a smarter choice) I'd reccomend basically what a lot of other people said. The civic, eclipse, and 240 would all be good cars for learning how to tune. They all have an enormous aftermarket parts selection too.

[B3AST]

if u worried bout insurance,i was 17 with my 7 and insurance was low as hell
wtf is a 7:???:

[sullen]

swap a 240, go have some fun. spend about a $4000 mark on the entire project. just get rid of that domestic POS.

[OneSlow5pt0]

wtf is a 7:???:

Mazda RX-7....a way funner stock car to drive then a honda or 240

[admedlin]

OTHER

I say go with a mazda miata. Its cheap, always convertible, always manual transmission, extremely lightweight. I've seen and heard of some insane swaps and crazy power out of some of these. The aftermarket isn't quite as big as the hondas, but there is a pretty good amount of support. RWD!

plus not a whole lot of people have them +1

[OneSlow5pt0]

OTHER

I say go with a mazda miata. Its cheap, always convertible, always manual transmission, extremely lightweight. I've seen and heard of some insane swaps and crazy power out of some of these. The aftermarket isn't quite as big as the hondas, but there is a pretty good amount of support. RWD!

plus not a whole lot of people have them +1

yep and very easy to drive


hows ur xfire?

[Nittanys1]

you should go with an accord...i know someone who has a hot acccord for sale!

[B3AST]

well I think I've made up my mind, it pains me to say I've chosen a civic but alas I have. But I think it would be the smartest choice with its reliability, cheap parts...:blah:

[greasemunkey]

accords are better*runs away*








buy my car!

[blackshine007]

You pussy footing around with all these little 4 bangers and you have a Mustang with an independent rear suspension already. Well, really, you have a Mark VIII without air ride and the weight. Which means find you a Mark VIII's 32v DOHC V8 (you know, the one with 290 hp?) and mate it with a Tremec T56, limited slip from the Mark, custom make the shaft, throw some Ford racing cams in it, and chip it and you'll destroy quite a few cars on top end. And you'll still pay the same insurance without the mustang premium.

[95alty]

Go with a 1st gen Altima- 93-97... Best cars... they are fwd 240s

[VooDooXII]

ya the 300 weighs in at like 39xx something and the truck is like...well im not getting into that.:screwy:

Your 300ZX weight THAT MUCH? Whoa...damn.

I like 240s, CRXs, Integras, and the old Supras...at least from that which you've listed.

Personally, I'd go with a 240, but they seem to be the new Civic...everyone's getting into them.

Next choice would be an old Supra.

[B3AST]

You pussy footing around with all these little 4 bangers and you have a Mustang with an independent rear suspension already. Well, really, you have a Mark VIII without air ride and the weight. Which means find you a Mark VIII's 32v DOHC V8 (you know, the one with 290 hp?) and mate it with a Tremec T56, limited slip from the Mark, custom make the shaft, throw some Ford racing cams in it, and chip it and you'll destroy quite a few cars on top end. And you'll still pay the same insurance without the mustang premium.
I have a V6 not a V8 with 145HP(like 105 at the wheels) not 290 and it weighs about 3,700lbs with me in it(LOL what a boat). And theres also one other problem I would have to get a SC to have a manual which I really would like to have( I'm not buying another auto, atleast not now). A V6 SC sounds real nice just out of my price range.(keep in mind I'm 16 working at Gamestop)

[OneSlow5pt0]

I have a V6 not a V8 with 145HP(like 105 at the wheels) not 290 and it weighs about 3,700lbs with me in it(LOL what a boat). And theres also one other problem I would have to get a SC to have a manual which I really would like to have( I'm not buying another auto, atleast not now). A V6 SC sounds real nice just out of my price range.(keep in mind I'm 16 working at Gamestop)

if i was u with money and wanting a 5speed fun car..id go ether mk1 MR2,RX-7 or Miata

[B3AST]

I don't know about a Miata man, I'm not that small and I don't really want a 2 seater. It would be nice but it could be inconvenient.

[OneSlow5pt0]

I don't know about a Miata man, I'm not that small and I don't really want a 2 seater. It would be nice but it could be inconvenient.


o,ok...thats yea,all those cars i listed are small 2seaters...im bout 5'11 and i fit perfect in my old miata and 7.....but gl with wat ever u get:goodjob:

[B3AST]

how much do you weigh b/c I'm tipping the scale at about 225(I got some muscle accompanied with some fat so I'm a pretty big guy LOL)

[OneSlow5pt0]

how much do you weigh b/c I'm tipping the scale at about 225(I got some muscle accompanied with some fat so I'm a pretty big guy LOL)

im like 150

[_Christian_]

get a DSM

[blackshine007]

I have a V6 not a V8 with 145HP(like 105 at the wheels) not 290 and it weighs about 3,700lbs with me in it(LOL what a boat). And theres also one other problem I would have to get a SC to have a manual which I really would like to have( I'm not buying another auto, atleast not now). A V6 SC sounds real nice just out of my price range.(keep in mind I'm 16 working at Gamestop)
Ok, let's try this again. I go slower. Since you have a car on the same chassis as a Mark VIII, get rid of your V6 and swap it for the Mark VIII's 32V Intech V8, that one does have 290 hp. You find yourself a Mustang V8's transmission, the T56 6 speed manual and put those 2 together with the proper wiring harness and chip. Hell, when all said and done, it's gonna weigh as much as a Supra anyways, but with V8 power. So while you're at it, convert the rear drums to disc's, courtesy of that said Mark VIII. And when you're tired of shitting on these little 4 bangers on the highway, Turbo it at 7 psi, you'll be making more power than any other said car due to the amount of power you'll have from the start. You don't need to get a supercharged car just to have a 5 speed. It's all about going custom. Check out these links.

http://forums.tccoa.com
http://forums.tccoa.com/showthread.php?t=97219
http://www.cardomain.com/MakeModel/Ford/Thunderbird

[latoilette]

buy my integra.

[JITB]

buy a protege 90-94 lx best choice u could ever make!!

[95alty]

ALTIMA !!!!!!!!!!

[B3AST]

Ok, let's try this again. I go slower. Since you have a car on the same chassis as a Mark VIII, get rid of your V6 and swap it for the Mark VIII's 32V Intech V8, that one does have 290 hp. You find yourself a Mustang V8's transmission, the T56 6 speed manual and put those 2 together with the proper wiring harness and chip. Hell, when all said and done, it's gonna weigh as much as a Supra anyways, but with V8 power. So while you're at it, convert the rear drums to disc's, courtesy of that said Mark VIII. And when you're tired of shitting on these little 4 bangers on the highway, Turbo it at 7 psi, you'll be making more power than any other said car due to the amount of power you'll have from the start. You don't need to get a supercharged car just to have a 5 speed. It's all about going custom. Check out these links.

http://forums.tccoa.com
http://forums.tccoa.com/showthread.php?t=97219
http://www.cardomain.com/MakeModel/Ford/Thunderbird
if I wanted to do that I would just do it to my current car, but to get it manual would be a pain b/c the tranny is longer than stock so it would need some modifaction(read that on tccoa), and then I would SC b/c rangerlee has done it on like 3 of his V6's or I would do a swap to a 4.2L from a F-150 . Trust me I have been doing research on MN12 for like the past 8 months I rather just get out of that scene. Its just seems like it would be too much time money and effort to get it where I would like it to be . I dont mind putting my time and effort in it but like I said my pockets are very shallow. But thanks any way.

EDIT: and a V8 is out of the question. Like I said before it would jack up my insurance, which I really dont want that to happen and plus gas would me more too.

[IndianStig]

bb4 prelude

1992-1996 Prelude do research on them, they aren't mainstream cars but are wellbuilt and great cars

[compufreak21]

^^^^Great idea!!^^^^ you can get these ludes for around 3k and the upgrade potential is awesome. Try to get the one with the h22 in it though. I can probably find you a good lude cheap if you decide to go that route.

[greasemunkey]

just an update on that ebay link, that bmw sold for 1100 bucks! thats crazy, i might get one later for a dd

[KillTheCrow]

Civic the way to go man!

[AnthonyF]

everything is a starter car. U need to weigh your options. FWD vs RWD, 4cyl vs 6cyl, how much parts are going to be for each car. How much power am i looking for with stock or built motor. Which is the cheapest, most reliable. This decision is up to you.


try to find friends with each car, who has the most problems, see if u can test drive them, get a feel for the cars, etc...

good luck man!


PS-i nominate any Honda/Acura. both have different look appeals but the teggy is a little faster to begin with (i think).

[quickdodge®]

DO NOT, I REPEAT DO NOT, get a 240. Also, if you MUST get a Civic, get an older one. Like the very early 90's or any 80's model. Get something different. Don't be Dolly. Be you. Later, QD.

[OneSlow5pt0]

DO NOT, I REPEAT DO NOT, get a 240. Also, if you MUST get a Civic, get an older one. Like the very early 90's or any 80's model. Get something different. Don't be Dolly. Be you. Later, QD.

get a subaru SVX........u will be only one,and thier quic,cool cars

[Fr33way]

-B13 Sentra, N/A or mild Bluebird build
-Miata
-BMW E30
-Foxbody Mustang
-Ford Probe / Mazda MX-6
-early 90s Accord H22'd (direct swap)

Do NOT buy a 3K Jetta/Golf/A4/RX7/GS-T. Those are not budget builds.

[koi]

Or 1991 6bolt/4bolt can't go wrong.

1992-1992.5 where the only time the 6/4bolt combo was around and there getting harder to find. But I give you probs on giving him good info.

As for starter cars. Even though DSM's have the making of a good starter import car. I really think you should look else where first. DSM's can make power and be very reliable. But you have to keep up on the maintance part of the tuning.

[Tuner_13BFC]

ok just my two cents but to me almost every car listed has been done be for do something different try this

http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?car_id=226437749&dealer_id=58275569&car_year=1987&model=CRESS&num_records=25&make2=&start_year=1981&keywordsfyc=&keywordsrep=&engine=&certified=&body_code=0&fuel=&awsp=false&search_type=both&distance=100&marketZipError=false&search_lang=en&make=TOYOTA&color=&page_location=findacar%3A%3Aispsearchform&min_price=&drive=&default_sort=priceDESC&max_mileage=&style_flag=1&sort_type=priceDESC&address=30039&advanced=&end_year=2008&doors=&transmission=&max_price=&cardist=29

this is a cressida a four door toyota boxy real boring looking right WRONG it is really a supra in sheeps cholthing it has the 5M-GE which is a 2.8 INLINE six :goodjob: an is rear wheel drive and it is only 1600 bucks just imagine the swap you could do a 7MGTE or a 2JZGTE and have a streetable daily driver and a badass sleeper and fuck cressida aftermarket support you could use supra parts :goodjob: badass huh.

[compufreak21]

i really dont see the draw to buying a car that will make you "Different". Thats like telling someone to not buy certain clothes but rather paint their faces white, wear all black, and dangle a chain from your wallet for the sake of being different. Then your just like every other idiot trying to be "different". The easiest way to be yourself is to test drive every car that you like and pick the most fun to drive to you. If its a 240, well cool...if its a '79 Honda CVCC, awesome, as long as at the end of the day you enjoy driving it. Ive driven what other people would call pos but i enjoyed driving them. I also have the stereotypical honda. I LOVE IT! get what you want and just make an educated decision based upon aftermarket support and the communitys knowledgable information. Just beware, this place is full of opinions and you will more readily get those than actual useful information. But the useful information is there so good luck!

[GangstaCoupe]

If your really on a budget and want to go the dumbestic route find a ford fairmont with a v8 in it. Its the same chassis as the mustang so most things swap over. And you have a stealth ride with decent performance and low ins. Oh and you can find them cheep, like $500 cheep.

I like the accord w/ h22 swap, maybe a older rx7 or 240 with an lt-1 swap would be nice.

[B3AST]

Thanks guys for all of your thoughts, I still have plenty of time to think about what I'm going to get, I'll probably get the new ride a little after Christmas. I'm still leaning towards some sort of Honda/Acura but I been wanting a MK3 supra for the longest but I don't think it is a wise decision to get one now, but we'll see what happens you never know...

[Fr33way]

Put off the Supra for now. Do it right later. A Honda/Acura will be much easier and much more forgiving (not leaving you stranded) than building the Supra that you would get in the same price range.

[Tuner_13BFC]

i agree with Fr33way you could build a badass MKIII but your gonna be eating cup noodles an sleeping in it:( or you could get a honda and eat steak every day an have a nice quick car so it's not really up to you but your pockets really:bannana: :bump:

[B3AST]

i agree with Fr33way you could build a badass MKIII but your gonna be eating cup noodles an sleeping in it:( or you could get a honda and eat steak every day an have a nice quick car so it's not really up to you but your pockets really:bannana: :bump:

yeah I know you and fr33way are right, it would be stupid for me to try and get one now. It would probably be sitting in the drive way needing work every weekend and my budget really can't handle that.

[sirkus]

LOL both my cars are 4000 lbs or more so ya that is light. You could also pick up a MK3 supra turbo for around 3K.

Where? Point me toward one that actually runs for that (w/ less than 200k miles), I'll buy it and I'll give you $100.
Those cars have become just like the 93+'s. People think just because of the name they're fast. That 7m isn't worth what people are asking for them.

But really, I would probably try to find a nice N/A MR2 or a convertible eclipse... they're really fun to drive. You'll be more satisfied with it than a civic.

[OneSlow5pt0]

speaking of that fawk you has got a heela of deal on a MK1 MR2....shit is bad,i want it..lol

[Mooney1184]

lol IMO starting with a supra is a little out-landish. you need some expierence first. 240's are cool, but require a little more cash a know how, mr2's are badass, but still need a lot of know how and expierence. i personally would start off with a honda/acura. if its a civic just put a homemade turbo kit on the d series and ride around for a while and get used to it. you can also put on a vtec head for a little better top end. if you search around you can get all this and about 210 hp safely for around 2k, maybe cheaper. if its an acura, just start with an ls turbo. theyre great engines from the factory and support boost very well. personally i would ditch the tranny with those long ass gears, but depends on what kinda car your looking to build.

but this is all just my 2 cents.

hope it helps.

o btw, i love mitsu's, but ive had 2 of them, and had countless problems with both. honda craftsmanship is far more superior, but once again....simply my opinion.

[Mooney1184]

www.homemadeturbo.com

[I <3 my EF]

but then again 240s are becomming common also:ninja:'
yes they are but if you really want to be different then turbo the ka24de instead of doing the run of the mill s13 sr20det swap. Or if you want to go turbo without buying/making a kit swap in the ca18det, there pretty cheap. Less then a grand and they make decent power.

[OneSlow5pt0]

i vote MK1 MR2 or FC

[Andy_013]

got a civic!!!

[RISKYB]

a civic or integra would be the easiest to break in on imop

[AnthonyF]

if u want to be different pick a car that is least voted for.


to get the job done easier....get a honda/acura.

[blaknoize]

Well, how bout I let u test drive a all stock CRX and you'll understand the go-kartness of these little cars. Little HP, little wheels, lots of people can assist u in ur needs with problems AND, u get great mpg. I'd start with a simple car like a honda/acura. I had a 1G Eclipse back in the day. It kicked ass, but it kicked my ass when it broke (3 times!!(IN A ROW)) so I settled for a Honda and turns out. I love this lil white, squared off car.

[EJ25RUN]

i really hate you noobs that have to keep following trends.

why dont you find out what you like best and build on it instead of being honda member # 3.7 million!

like this (bet you know nutin bout these :ninja: )
http://www.relentlessracing.com/images/customer_don_omni.jpg

[RotaryHead]

Any car that has a large after market support would do just fine

[Logan]

I would look for a nice GST eclipse.

Pretty quick and decent looking.

[hondachik]

civic:goodjob:

[Lucky.]

Integra, they're easy to work on. :goodjob:

[JDMirza]

MR2s are light?

the mk1 are and MR2-S are but not the mk2 mr2..........get 6th gen celica and do a GT4 swap u will be making close to 300HP

also for 3k could get a RX-7
Got my 7 for 800 bucks. Lol.

[OneSlow5pt0]

Got my 7 for 800 bucks. Lol.

yea i paid 1200 for mine:goodjob:

[JDMirza]

fc3s ftw.:D

[ThaABomb]

Personally, my ideal starter car is the 240SX. It's RWD, has plenty of aftermarket support and tuning potential, and is moderately practical. Civics are practical and have good aftermarket support, but are FWD (which isn't REALLY a problem unless your seriously racing). Miatas and MR2s are RWD and have good aftermarket support, but have zero practicality. I feel like a 240SX has just enough of everything to be a good starting platform.

[quickdodge®]

Personally, my ideal starter car is the 240SX.

That's only if you want to have the same car as everyone else and don't like being different and stand out. Later, QD.

[JDMirza]

That's only if you want to have the same car as everyone else and don't like being different and stand out. Later, QD.
True, 240's have become sooooo... like civics now-a-days.

[quickdodge®]

True, 240's have become sooooo... like civics now-a-days.

I'd shoot backwards and grab an old Corolla or Dodge Colt or something like that. Later, QD.

[ThaABomb]

If it were me, I would rather start out with something that everyone else has but is easier to get parts and advice for, than start out with something "different", and have no fckin idea what to do with it. Then after getting some experience on the easy car, I'd move up to something more challenging and more original.

[Lucky.]

lmao, i started with a 98 escort ZX2 :ninja:

[JDMirza]

I'd shoot backwards and grab an old Corolla or Dodge Colt or something like that. Later, QD.
A Hyundai accent, youd be better off dropping a 4g63 in that thing.

[1gDSM]

whats the problem with eclipse's? all I read of was crank walk...

only the october 94 and up engines with the 7 bolt flywheel get crank walk.

personally i think eclipses are awsome i never really had a problem with mine. they are just really high maintenance cars. Alot of my friends had civics and i was to one driving them around to get new parts.

but again that is only my personal experience, whos to say you wont get a ****ty one.

[4dmin]

crx = cheap, reliable, easy to build, and tons of options

[Honngodda411]

get an integra and boost it, leave everything else stock......

[HalfBaked]

Build a colt or a mirage.

[mocha latte cupcake]

anything and ADD a wing a nos.... you'll fit right in with half of IA promise :D

[#1Beaver]

Civic Hatch
lovem
Or a CRX

[.::UNKNOWN::.]

3rd, 4th or 5th gen lude ftw:goodjob: less of them and when done right they are amazing and hey pm me and i can give you an amazing h22 build:ninja:

[SlamminCRX]

bringing this shit from the dead! this guy said he didnt want to get into a civic, hes had 2 of them already lmao.

[SlenderEG6]

i started with a celica.... well i had no idea about how cars worked! lol i prolly couldnt have told you the difference between a strut bar and a fuel rail! so what i do.... i pull the motor! and by the time i got it back in i new a great deal of things! so the 6th gen celica was fairly simple for my first car... now ive moved on to doind a 2jay swap in my 240!:goodjob:

[man]

I got a second gen RX-7 Turbo for $4000 but pm me and make an offer on it.

Link:http://importatlanta.com/forums/showthread.php?p=38339537#post38339537

[FasTech]

My Accord. Cheap and good on gas!!

[slostang]

foxbody.

[40th GT]

i really hate you noobs that have to keep following trends.

why dont you find out what you like best and build on it instead of being honda member # 3.7 million!

like this (bet you know nutin bout these :ninja: )
http://www.relentlessracing.com/images/customer_don_omni.jpg
GLH stands for Goes Like Hell! :goodjob:

[Joeysz]

mk3 supra/sc300. I'd buy an sc300 then you can work your way up to an NA-T set up and do a manual swap.

[bdydrpdmazda]

im with the folks that suggested the 5.0, anything but a mother fucking honda

[HypnoToad]

mustang deff

[40th GT]

I voted Honda.

But that T-Bird you have isn't completely worthless either.
I'm not sure if you have the SuperCoupe but here are some of'em runnin.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-oOGoWUH9qU&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rY78ajjUJZI&feature=related

[FAM0U5]

dont be a pussy get a supra...

[bloodline]

lol at tuner cars....makes em sound like toys when you call em that. the best import for you imho is the honda civic simply becuase of the knowlege out there and the huge aftermarket support and ease of swaps. not say the others cars are bad but i just think the easiest way to do things is with a honda


i agree^^ hondas are just good to begin a build ...there so much aftermarket parts..you just gotta make sure you do it right.

[EJ25RUN]

EDIT......

GOD DAMN IT.

I doubt he still has yet to find a car after 2 years!

[SlamminCRX]

EDIT......

GOD DAMN IT.

I doubt he still has yet to find a car after 2 years!

your wrong, he ended up getting a camaro..sold it

then he got an ek hatch and then he traded for an ek coupe.

[91boostdgsr]

my first "tuner" car was a 95 integra ls and ive love the integra ever since ive had three now and plan on getting another one for the money and value of them you cant beat it

[bluuuurr]

240sx.. if they're not retardedly overpriced still

[oldcorolla]

EARLY 80s Corolla , RWD , yes it is more of a cult car but there is alot you can do with these wonderful little 1.8s.

[Me86Rob]

EARLY 80s Corolla , RWD , yes it is more of a cult car but there is alot you can do with these wonderful little 1.8s.
I disagree

[oldcorolla]

You would judging by the car in your sig. HAHAHHA , You need parts for the wagon , I have an 80 that I will be yanking parts off of as soon as I get home , the quad headlight front end is already gone. It looks like you need a rear hatch I see a bit of body damage back there, real cheap if you want it.Quite a few pictures on my photobucket , quite a few items are gone off the car for my own usage. Just let me know what you might want in a pm and I will let you know if its still available

http://s304.photobucket.com/albums/nn190/94diamante/

[tk4g94]

Dont get a e30. and get a 3g eclipes there nice

[kain]

get a friggin volvo 240 turbo and go to town on that beast. the engine wont blow, posi trac rear end, and turbo.

plus its a safe car.

[B3AST]

jesus christ guys, i made this thread when i was 15! lol i ended up gettin a camaro for 400 bucks sold that got and ek hatch and now i got a b20 civic but im about to sell before i go to basic and when i get back i might go with my dream and build a 2jz supra or something with 8 cylinders:ninja:

[ash7]

jesus christ guys, i made this thread when i was 15! lol i ended up gettin a camaro for 400 bucks sold that...

no wonder you got rid of it
-jonathan

[B3AST]

no wonder you got rid of it
-jonathan yea it was a pos, cleaned it up and sold it for a grand though

[secondgencamaro]

Does it have to be an import? If you want something fast and cheap how about an older 5.0 Mustang? Not sayign that they are great cars or anything, but you can make them really fast for pretty damn cheap. Also they have a pretty traditional setup and would make a great car for learning how to wrench. [Puts on flame suit]

A Fox-body would be a good one. Also, you could get an earlier Fox and skimp out on the emissions BS. If you were to go for an 80s Camaro, either get one with a 350 to start or plan to swap the motor because 305s are junk.

[secondgencamaro]

Nevermind, lolol.

[marcos713]

lol at tuner cars....makes em sound like toys when you call em that. the best import for you imho is the honda civic simply becuase of the knowlege out there and the huge aftermarket support and ease of swaps. not say the others cars are bad but i just think the easiest way to do things is with a honda


agreed! a honda would make a good 1st tuner car.

i started off with a 2g eclipse and got used to shifting etc. liked the wat it looked but not too many people know about dsm's atleast my friends so bought me my integra and lovin it ever since:D

[slostang]

i know ive said it before but im saying it again. foxbody

[5speed]

WTF! This thread was created 07-13-2007, 12:11 AM. Just stop posting it doesnt matter anymore lol









Leaving

[05IONREDLINE]

CRX. Lightweight and with the right swap can be nice.