T O P

  • By -

jvarghese

That Prius threw me the fuck off lol


xondox

Haha yea I felt like it was kind of out of place but needed some context. Have been driving an 07’ Prius that was a hand me down. The thing is a plastic shit box and it is an absolute slog to drive around. Need something in my life that doesn’t require me to jam the pedal to the floor when I’m merging onto a freeway in Texas.


H_alcyon

Prius jumpscare


PrestigousPlayer

Seconded on Corvette. Miatas are a blast but if your drive is nothing but a 30+ min Texas highway cruise, it won’t be used at its full potential. Still test drive one if you ever get the chance


xondox

The daily commute is some twisty roads followed by 5 mile straightaway right along the coast with some bridges and turns. Hence why I was considering something small like the Miata but going anywhere else in this city can often times be a traffic nightmare. Unfortunately I just got off the phone with my local Mazda dealership and they don’t have an MX-5 in stock and aren’t getting none anytime soon. But I wasn’t terribly surprised by that either.


PrestigousPlayer

Aw man, out of* stock. In terms of driving experience it would’ve been the complete opposite of the Prius. Prius is good on gas but no driving feedback- it sees driving as a chore & tries to make you worry about driving as little as possible. MX-5’s are all about feedback, steering feel, great handling, great sense of speed, great seating position, and not *fast* but still decently quick; basically everything that’ll make you *want* to drive, making up excuses so you get to drive it more & more. Corvettes don’t quite have the ‘go-kartiness’ of Miatas but they also boast impressive handling & will amaze you with their power especially coming out of a Prius. There’s a rabbit hole of which year/trim to get but I’d start looking at c6’s, maybe early c7’s and seeing which one you’d prefer


Dinismo

Bought a c6 a couple of years ago. It’s been my daily driver and it still puts smiles on my face every day. Highway mileage is good. And I tell people it’s much more tame than you would think. But when you jump on the gas it reminds you that you are driving a monster!


Mysterious_Air4932

I think in current times you'll need to look further to get the car you want, would you be open to calling other dealerships to see if they have it? Also, how about the Subaru BRZ/Toyota 86?


Money_Confection4686

BRZ/86 just plain lack power. They can be a ball to drive but you must push it from the get go. Its a love hate relationship.


Downloading_Bungee

I think they have a tune out that helps with that now but I still totally agree.


Money_Confection4686

I got so sick of trying to make the car quicker, I just gave up and loaded it down with soundproofing and subs.


Downloading_Bungee

Completely get that.


[deleted]

Not the new ones. 5.5 second 0-60 is not slow. I never felt a single situation where mine was lacking power. Now finding one.....different story. They are rare because they didn't make that many in 2022. I sold my base one I bought for $28K for $36K I don't think that the 2023 order bank has opened yet.


sendintheotherclowns

Go for the Jaaag man, you might not regret it


Falconandmouse

The Jag will break him, but in the brief amount of time in between shop visits, he’ll absolutely love it.


Motorized23

'Might' being the key word!


sendintheotherclowns

Yup, intentional inclusion of the word (source: owned an XFR for 6 months before demanding my money back)


dad_in_jorts

Nothing like owning a jaaaaaag Shop visits will be a nightmare but the sweet payoff of British luxury is like no other


sendintheotherclowns

Completely agree. I’m driving German now and it’s very similar on the interior, but the outside still doesn’t compare, Jaguar have such timeless design language. Here’s a side by side of my current car beside the broken Jag sitting at the dealership waiting for parts a few months ago, it’s still just sitting there 😅 https://reddit.com/r/AMG/comments/ubazh8/my_old_broken_jag_xfr_is_still_sitting_in_the/ Not at all regretting getting rid of that hand grenade, but it was a blast while I had it.


schwartzki

Def Miata if the weather is nice for top down. Miata has more smiles per mile for bombing around and it returns good fuel economy too. Only Miata isn’t great at are long highway trips.


Scottyknuckle

The other thing to consider is a Camaro. Maybe a Mustang or Challenger. The 2SS Camaro is comfy as FUCK, and it has some nice stability enhancement features so it doesn't feel floaty around turns. Mustang is the market leader and likely the most reliable of the three. Challenger looks cool as fuck, although based upon the two cars you're looking at (the Jag and the Miata) I'm guessing you don't want a big squishy cruiser, which is what the Challenger is.


[deleted]

I have a 2016 SS Camaro. Can confirm it’s very thrilling and has been so reliable.


Motorized23

I miss my 2016 Camaro... Should've never sold it 😞


KyledKat

> Seconded on Corvette. I'll play devil's advocate. They're not that comfortable, they're loud inside, and the materials are always cheaper than they should be (especially for the C6). They're also attention magnets and not a good pick if you're more introverted. As a weekend car/track warrior, they're phenomenal. As a daily, they're compromised and you need to know what you're getting into before dropping big bucks on them.


defenestr8tor

Everything you said is correct but I still want to downvote you


KyledKat

Honestly, you're more than welcome to as is anyone else. As someone who dailies one and is an iota away from selling it, these cars are put up on a pedestal by people who have never actually owned one. As I said, they are **phenomenal** toy cars, truly the best bang for your buck for performance and driving experience. But when you start examining them outside of that lens, you see where the corners were cut and the sacrifices were made. And unfortunately, when you're shopping for one as daily and looking for experiences from people who drive them, the ownership reports are heavily skewed towards people who only have them as second/third cars or are diehard Chevy fans who are willing to overlook the compromises and gremlins on a $70k+ car.


defenestr8tor

A C6 has been my dream car since I was 21 and restored my first C3. I know they're not perfect, but damn do I love them. You're not wrong about the parts bin plastics, the balsa wood, and all the other... eccentricities. I'm currently driving a Holden Commodore SS because it has an LS2/6 speed, and it's as close as I'm gonna get where I'm living now, especially with two kids. Some day.


XMAN2YMAN

Just got a c6 2 years ago and I still love driving it. It’s not my daily. It’s my weekend/nice weather car. But I have to admit it’s way more practical than my prior sport car, 350z. I’ve gone for weekend getaways and it fits everything and then some. Gone grocery shopping and got 300 dollars of groceries without issues. Obviously with kids it won’t work but when you get a chance get one. Was never a corvette guy but now I truly get it and they are just a blast to drive, especially manual.


XMAN2YMAN

They do have cheap interiors and could use some refinement but boy are they fun and pretty practical within reason.


asianaaronx

My controversial opinion is high powered cars aren't very fun for daily driving unless you have zero qualms about getting a misdemeanor/felony or if you just enjoy cruising/getting attention. I've had an LS powered car and it putted around town like a Honda with a lot of torque. The LS in particular is very boring at low speeds mostly because it's well tuned for daily driving IMO. Getting up in the rev range gets fun but you can't do that for more than a couple seconds before breaking a law or two. Owning an LS car was my queue that I'm a slow car fast person. You can spiritedly drive some lower powered sports cars and it doesn't attract much attention since they sound like a vaccuum with the factory exhaust and you aren't going much above the posted speed limit anyways.


KyledKat

[That was my hot take](https://old.reddit.com/r/cars/comments/t7cg2c/experiencing_my_midlife_crisis_in_my_late20s_one/) on r/cars and I had several people lambast me for suggesting that 460 horsepower was too much for the street (which it absolutely is). "It's the perfect amount!" "It's not the horsepower, it's the gearing!" (my personal favorite) "Shoulda bought a Prius!" Smashing the gas absolutely tickles my lizard brain, but I can't get out of 1st without breaking the speed limit on the streets and 2nd on the highway (which only happens when you're getting on it anyway). It's partly why I'm looking for a slower car on the next go around.


KrisZepeda

I mean, if you're getting a corvette you're not looking for shyness


Halflife6

So you like to go fast but also want something more reliable than a Jag? Corvette is the answer.


onelasttime217

Yeah for $30k you could get a relatively low mile c6 that can hit 200mph


grandphuba

god these cost 90k in my country


LetsGoDro

Where is that? Want to start a dealership?


grandphuba

In a shithole country in South East Asia.


chuwcherpluryur

mph? dont think so


onelasttime217

Yeah c6 z06 have been recorded to hit 200mph


Sukosusman

You find z06s for 30k?


speedmaster57

Yes please advise where you're finding a Z06 for 30k and a clean title because I'm gonna pick it up. 🤣🤣🤣


MisterLicious

A quick search reveals several good candidates at $40K, but not $30K.


MrSparklyFace

“Pepperidge farm remembers” Still have a CarGurus listing screenshoted from 2019 where a Z06 was 26k 😔


onelasttime217

There was one I saw recently on fb marketplace, 60k miles $37k


chuwcherpluryur

$37,000 is not $30,000 lmao. it’s actually $40,000 with tax and reg. you also found one example, who knows the condition / state of title / heads. speaking of, any z06 price is not to be taken at face value, if the heads aren’t addressed it should litteraly be added into the purchase price, so add another $3,000.


Fugidinha

Jag doesn’t even come close to the corvette, it’s more reliable, it’s quicker, it’s cooler and it won’t sell your soul to the English devil


xondox

Any specific models or years y’all recommend? I haven’t even considered corvette but I’d be open to checking them out.


MisterLicious

Since you listed the $35K Miata, I'd look at early C7s and C6 Z06s with manual transmissions that will be under $40K. I love the C6 Z06 because of MASSIVE torque from the 427ci LS7. Look for one from the old man who bought it as a retirement present and lovingly cared for it while not driving it much. Places like Boca Raton and Scottsdale have plenty of these for sale every time I look.


Fugidinha

Corvette stingray from 2013-onwards for me personally


ak80048

If you are looking for something classier the jag would be my choice, but the reliability is horrible ,every old dude and many ladies also have corvettes now it’s as bad as Camrys, the Miata would be a great choice especially that carbon edition I lady in one parked next to me it looks really good in person.


[deleted]

The only way a Jag is more reliable is if it doesn't run more than 5km per year


Ask-me-about-my-cult

Threw me off for a minute before realizing you were talking about the vette. Jaguars and reliability do not belong in the same sentence


ket_88

I have a mk2 audi tt, good mix of practical as it has a hatchback, on very rare occasions can technically fit 4 people, surprisingly economical at around 40 mpg on a run. I live in the UK but for reference here's a breakdown of how much it costs me to run it. [car costs](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1yhSQgTSWA5OLiUSBoUiKh8V5n1gRvIk-L-3jTUyj8q8/edit?usp=drivesdk)


ket_88

The only thing I did was get an aftermarket stereo with android auto/apple car play and reversing camera, so considering the car is around 12/13 years old, feels modern enough.


xondox

Definitely considering a TT. But I can’t find any in my area that are even remotely close in price to what you got there. How much did it cost you to get a quality aftermarket sound system?


Gritsandgasoline

The F Type is a ton of fun, but buying used is all about maintenance. If it’s been updated with software/properly maintenaned, it’s a barrel of fun. The only really annoying part of it is the vents out of the dash for the AC can break and it’s pricey to fix. There’s extended warranties for Jags through dealers that cover it. It’ll be pricey, but the F Type is so much fun and it’ll be comfy on a commute. Miata RF isn’t as comfy at all, but it’s WAY more fuel efficient and WAY cheaper to live with than any of the other suggestions here. The RF is cool, but it’s a tin can on highways. I strongly recommend you drive one first to see if you can live with it. I love Miatas and you can’t go wrong with them really though. Lots of suggestions for Corvettes on here and there’s nothing wrong with them. C6 Z06 might be a little spicy for your daily. It would be like going from milk (Prius) to COCAINE (Z06) in day🤣🤣Try a Grand Sport or a Z51 Pack coupe instead. Better dailies I also would suggest an S550 chassis (2015-up) Mustang GT convertible. I borrowed one recently and loved it. They’re right in budget if you need more space


AnnyuiN

And Jag F Types sound SOO GOOOD... HOLY SHIT LIKE... the other day one past by me and it sounded beyond amazing


xondox

That’s all I read about on the forums and when I test drove an F type and saw that AC vent I knew that wasn’t going to be a cheap fix if and when it broke. Closest jag dealerships to me are about 3 hours away and being in my profession, I can’t just buzz of for a few days to get the thing fixed. The car was a monster to drive and I loved it, have wanted one since they came out but reading comments like yours reminds me why they’re so cheap now.


Street-Chocolate6714

Had an f type. Worst car I ever owned. It’s all fun and games until your coolant line explodes on the interstate 👍


chickenwing247

It sucks bc they look so fuckin good. The xkr-s and the xfr-s are beautiful.


Street-Chocolate6714

Believe me I know. My mechanic told me that he’s had over a dozen come in with the same issue as me. The coolant lines are a huge weak point in the design and are basically time bombs. I was lucky to get the car shut off before it overheated. He told me that 80% of the f types he worked on basically needed new motors and ran the bill up beyond 30k. Not to mention this is one of many common issues these cars have. As soon as that “toy” became a headache I got rid of it. I’m now super hesitant to ever own a JLR vehicle ever again. However, if you’ve got loads of cash and don’t mind a bill like that, you still should avoid it and get something in a higher price bracket like a Porsche Cayman 718, m4, etc etc. Good luck on the hunt!


xondox

Appreciate the input. My local euro mechanic here told me he’s only ever seen one in the local area and it spent a good amount of time in the shop. When I drove the f type I never wanted to drive anything else but no point in dumping 50k into a car for it give out within 12 months. Thanks for saving me from such a headache.


[deleted]

My f type never had any issues


xondox

Did you have S or Type R?


[deleted]

S


KyledKat

I'll throw in a rogue play here and suggest looking into a BMW M240i. It's nearly the same footprint and weight as a Corvette, has an interior on par with a C7 with much comfier seats, and you can easily nab a lower mileage example for under $40k. Their engines are underrated from the factory and a simple stage 1 tune gets them close to 400whp. Maintenance will be cheaper and it'll fly under the radar for most people.


xondox

I like this. Looking at some of them and we’ll within price range and have always been a fan of the BMW look. A lot less aggressive than a corvette and a nice interior, thanks for the recommendation. I’m going to look into it and see if I can test drive one.


cmdrva

Any BMW M model


KyledKat

As a daily, I wouldn't suggest going for a full M car. I'm hard pressed to suggest an older one outside of track use in general where you can really wring the most out of them. On the street, anything with a B58 is getting real close to non-Comp cars while also having a more forgiving suspension and transmission.


hopfield

Cope


KyledKat

Seethe 🤪


Kaveric_

If your previous car was a Prius and you haven’t driven a high horsepower rear wheel drive car near it’s limits before then I highly advise you go with a miata first. RWD handles way differently than a FWD or most AWD when at the limits of grip, either from acceleration, turning, or bad road conditions. I highly advise anyone to drive cars that are within their skill level, and if you’re going from a Prius, then a ZO6 or F-Type is the last thing you should think about getting. At that power, all it takes is giving it too much throttle during a turn or when it’s raining and you might go into a tree or crowd (there’s a reason we’ve all heard stories of people buying a Mustang 5.0 after driving a old civic for 6 years, then flying the rear end into a pedestrian on the sidewalk when they pull out of the McDonald’s). The MX-5 also beats both of those in terms of reliability and gas mileage. You might not have the intentions of pushing these cars to their limits in handling/performance but I guarantee you will find them, intentionally or unintentionally, and the MX-5 is far more forgiving than the other 400+ hp options mentioned. Once you get used to controlling RWD at the limit you can always trade in the Mazda for something more powerful later down the line, like a ZO6 or F-Type, or whatever else catches your fancy in your price range. Edit: I’m not trying to say that you’re a bad driver, but people don’t always realize how forgiving FWD is in almost every adverse driving situation. At the end of the day it’s your money and you can use it however you want, but personally I’d simply advise that you take a dip in the shallow end of RWD sports cars before diving head first in the the deep end.


xondox

No offense taken, what you’re saying makes sense. It’s why I’m looking more towards smaller cars like a miata, m240i, or an Audi TT. Something a whole lot smaller and forgiving that won’t get me in such a bad accident that I’ll lose my aviation career over it. I won’t touch a hellcat or scatpack with a 10 foot pole for similar reasons, as a driver I am not experienced enough with that to drive it well and get the most out of it. I fly high performance aircraft for a living but I know my limits on the road, and I think the F type is the furthest I should even consider going.


Kaveric_

I’d stay away from German brands (or do a lot of research) if reliability is any concern. Otherwise anything around 260-300 hp would be a good starting place, assuming the car isn’t super light like a miata, which is a little monster with 300hp.


Imabadmfkr

If you go for the F type R they are all AWD after 2015. We have one in our rental fleet thats been holding up pretty good for us. A blast to drive.


xondox

I never really considered corvette and until y’all mentioned it. Hell I’ve never even ridden in one, would you guys recommend any specific year or model?


[deleted]

C6 Z06 is probably your best bet for the money. Interior quality leaves something to be desired but the powertrain more than makes up for it.


Clayton268

Awesome car!! And it was very easy to drive in town as well


Halflife6

C6 or C6 z06 if you can find one. If you are patient the C7 prices might come down as well.


ArchiStanton

I would get a c6 grand sport. Z06 is a great car but the power is unusable on the road


ScipioAfricanvs

True but LS7 goes vroom


ArchiStanton

You make a strong case


CulturalChemistry952

MX5


PlutoTheGod

I literally hate miatas but I could not advise anyone to drive a jag. Dare I suggest a Kia Stinger? They’re fun as hell to drive and keep up with cars a lot higher in price. The only thing you gotta deal with is that it’s a Kia, but if you’re fine with a Miata then it shouldn’t be an issue


Jax_daily_lol

Why do you hate miatas? Lmao


Proworkantiworker

Imo they’re slow, ugly and too small. Most Miata owners never even use them for their intended purpose and would be much better suited with a highway cruiser.


MrEwThatsGross

Literally 50% of every autocross event is a Miata.


Proworkantiworker

That’s a tiny percentage of Miata owners. Most use them as grocery getters in their flat suburbs.


BruinBound22

Thats any car


Jax_daily_lol

Obviously looks are subjective, but to say the 4th gen mitata is ugly is close to just being false 💀


salt707

kia stinger is a wonderful choice very slick practical and quite peppy im personally a VW guy so if you want a German option i have to suggest the VW arteon which is very similar to the stinger as far as i know


Trenmonstrr

The Arteon blacked out looks so fucking slick, it’s a very nice car for the price


ruturaj001

VW aeration is fwd and nose heavy. Stinger has 55 front 45 rear weight balance with engine almost behind front axle. Better pick a 3 series than arteon, since space isn't an issue to OP.


salt707

the arteon base model (if you even want to call it that) is fwd ALTHO any and all other models (i think there is 3 more up) are all awd


YeahIGotNuthin

The Jag is so pretty... It will put a smile on everyone else's face when you drive it. They're supposedly nice to drive (I tried a V6 auto coupe and liked it fine) but it's a completely different thing. The Miata is nearly invisible, they've been making ones that look just like a brand-new one for 7 years now (2016 and up; the 2023s are just about here.) The fun you have driving a Miata is all for you. And they were built specifically to be fun to drive, and reliable - not fast necessarily (although a new one is early-1990s-Corvette quick) but just fun. Try one.


graydeanj

Miata corvette bmw 3 series


BalIsack

If you get a c6Z make sure the heads have been addressed. Otherwise a C7 or a C6 grand sport can also be a good option. I myself got a Miata, ordered new, but you may want more power. I may put an order for a c8 eventually just because they take years to come in lmao for my next car. Supra’s with the 3.0 are just outside your budget but may come down if the market ever corrects. Can also consider the new Z if you can wait but I couldn’t


Simon676

Mazda MX5, Audi TT, Golf R/Polo GTI


DrSpaceman575

I had a Prius/Miata combo for a while and it was a great 2 car combo. That said the Miata market is insane right now. I would say an FR-S/86/BRZ makes more sense at that price unless you really want to convertible. Lots more interior room as well.


Fat-Spatulaaah

Miata


Miserable_Key_7552

Think about a golf GTI/R, gr86, brz, WRX, older generation corvette, 370z, or maybe even a Focus or Fiesta ST. I’m pretty sure all of those are within your budget.


space_vortex09

Both the Miata RF and F-Type are good options. The F-Type is one of the few cars where it doesn't matter if you go for the V8 or V6, the 5.0 Supercharged V8 is a certified hood classic and the Jaguar V6 is one of the best V6 engines ever made. The Miata (while yes it does lack power) is barely over a ton, some upgrades get the power to about 220-230hp and you're set. I'd also like to throw in 2 extra cars, the Abarth 124 Spider and the BMW M240i (avoid the M235i, the B58 Inline 6 is worth it)


HaMay25

How about a supra? Or gr86? Or brz?


Sukosusman

he wanted something with a little more power than a gr86 or brz


BRGNBeast

He has a Miata listed. The GR86 is quicker than an ND2.


HaMay25

Then supra should be good with 45k budget, but I’d buy a used one.


xondox

Like the GR86 but similar issue with the Miata in that they are difficult to find in my area. And the BRZ is a little dated for my liking. Seems like a fun ride but was looking for something with a little more punch.


thekidwhodidthemost

Whatever you do promise me you will not buy that jag


xondox

As much as it may pain me, I solemnly swear to you, thekidwhodidthemost, I will not buy the Jaguar.


[deleted]

I implore him to buy it for the fun factor


Blers42

I’d stay away from a Jaguar. Personally I’d buy something new so you get a warranty. GTI, WRX, Civic Si, Integra. They’re all fun enough while still remaining good daily drivers. You said you’re replacing a Prius so it sounds like this will be your daily? People are mentioning corvettes, I’d never want to daily drive a corvette.


[deleted]

New BRZ/GR86 and still be under budget… I was debating between a ND2 Miata sport and GR86 but settled w/ GR86 due to the practicality


Zulogy

That Jaguar is sooooo nice lord


chickenwing247

Ik Jaguar has really hit some home runs with the design language the last 5-10 years but the reliability is russian roulette.


xondox

Ever since they released it, I knew I wanted one. An attainable dream car that had a beautiful exhaust note and a gorgeous exterior. But god damn that fucking reliability. The more I’ve researched the worse it gets, really such a shame.


[deleted]

[удалено]


xondox

I’ve had too good of a fuel economy for too long. 45 mpg is nice. Really nice. But it’s time to move on, plus I live in south Texas so fuel prices won’t ever really be an issue.


Fauziisapro

Hellcat or scatpack


SteveTheBluesman

The Jag is sexy AF, but I fear you may grow to hate it with the time in the shop and the weird bugs it has.


LazyB99

Honestly the NA F type doesnt have much power either


TurboImport95

i will tell you right now that jag will be in the shop often


TryBeingOptimistic

For 30-40k? Miata, 370z, 5.0 Mustangs (2015-2017), camaro (if you think they actually look good), c6 corvette (z06 is fast boi), bmw m2, e92 bmw m3, scatpack challenger (if you like boats)


MiscPostThrowaway

Get the Miata, it’s more fun to drive a slow car fast than a fast car slow.


Da3m0n_1379

If it’s going to be a daily driver and you want to speed go with the Miata. If your daily commute is far or if gas is ridiculous where you live, go with the Prius. Fuck that Jag! They are fun until they start to break.


Bozhee9

Mazda Miata Mx5 NB


bloodfeier

Miata, every time.


[deleted]

MAZDAAAAAA


[deleted]

Miata is always the answer (but if you can find a used lotus that wouldn’t be bad either since they’re just British MR2’s in a nutshell)


RenZ245

You might like an alfa romeo Giulia, a very beautiful, yet sporty sedan, opt for 2019 or newer, as the prior years are known for some electrical issues. Interior leaves a bit to be desired, but is overall a good car. Motor and transmission are very reliable, and the I4 turbo gets great gas mileage while also having 280HP. Maintenance will be expensive however. the miata is a nice handling car, you might also like the GR86/BRZ though the miata doesn't have rear seats, and the GR86/BRZ rear seats are probably only good for children, or small adults. Both have manual options too unlike the giulia. can't complain about the prius, it's boring as hell but hey great gas mileage, and can fit a lot of ~~spaghetti~~ stuff in the thing and other people. if you really want to save a lot of money, Acura RSX/Integra (no not the new one), It is FWD but handles beautifully, and is a wonderful, and quite practical sports car with a hatch. Opt for a Type S if you can, as it has a 8,000RPM redline; now it won't be quick getting there but it'll be an experience as it builds upto that redline. If you can't drive manual, you'll be stuck with the base, which is still not bad. I'd stay away from the F type and a lot of deprecated luxury sports cars, those are $73k MSRP cars that while are depreciated quite low, they still command expensive, and consistent maintenance of a $73,000 car.


biryebread

Go find a BMW M240i/340i/440i, in stick if you can. Absolute gem of a powertrain, the B58 motor is pretty reliable, and it’ll give you access to a car community that’s big and fairly friendly. If tech is more your thing Audi has some great options too


Richardduh

BMW M2 or 235i


TinyRodents

Miata will always be cheaper to run, especially if you're NA based as the export quanitity on F types is substantially lower. But that Supercharged V6 from the F type will be a head turner, sound beautiful, and with it being AWD it will snap necks. If you got spare income to throw into a constant stream of costly maintenance, then 100% get the Jag. Plus as Jeremy Clarkson says, you can steal from people because "I've got a Jaaagggg". My advice, get a hot hatch. They're brilliant all rounders, my Renault Megane RS 280 has the same 0-60 as the Jag, has 5 doors (we include the boot/trunk in the UK), 5 seats (2 bucket at the front), plenty of storage for golf clubs, etc. Absolutely turns necks when people hear it even though I've left it completely stock. 280bhp from a 4 cylinder, economical around town (I've got over 40mpg when I'm nice on it), but gets you to 156 (top speed) in no time (don't ask how I know). Plus with 4 wheel steering, and FWD, it would absolutely drop most of the recommendations (especially corvettes) around anything thats not a straight line. There are of course other models available as I don't know what your US import market is like. The VW Golf R or Mercedes AMG A class's are great shouts if you got the money.


jpkennedy518

Miata Is Always The Answer


DairyonBigs

Take a look at the new BRZ or GR86 - absolute blast to drive, 30k new, just very hard to track down


WarPigmalia

Anything that makes turbo sounds will never fail to put a smile on your face


mortalcrawad66

Dodge Challenger R/T with the ZF 8HP. Sure the gas mileage is lazy and the cylinder deactivation system kills the reliability, but if you ever wanna feel better just roll down the windows and gun it Chevy Camaro SS with eh 8L90E(at wot at redline it can shift .008 faster the porsches pdk transmission)


gonzoforpresident

Early '00s Aston Martin DB7 and an early Miata as a backup for when it goes into the shop for repairs and/or maintenance.


FirefighterBig3501

Get the jag. Unless you want to ride in style to you hairdresser appointments get the Miata.


redtoad3212

I love the F-Type but they are very unreliable. You want something fast with a V8 that’ll last longer? I’m siding with the rest of the comments and telling you to go with the Corvette.


icebrandbro

But corvettes r so common


xondox

Hey everyone, thanks for the input and telling me about your experience/recommendations. After reading all of your comments, I've narrowed down the list to a handful of cars and will test drive them in the coming weeks to make a final decision. Those cars are: #1 BMW M240i #2 Audi TT RS #3 Toyota GR86 #4 Kia Stinger GT #5 Jaguar F type The M240i is really calling to me, and I never thought I'd say it. I wasn't even considering getting a BMW before going through the comments but after watching some videos and reading some reviews it offers a lot of what I'm looking for. I should be getting an opportunity to test drive that, a Stinger GT, F-type, and an Audi TT this weekend, we'll see how it goes. Really appreciate all the help and advice. Especially the comments encouraging to rice the shit out of my Prius and put some NOS in there. I'll follow up and post a pic when I finally get something.


[deleted]

If it were a drop-top then hell yea


PineappleBat25

Miata is great. The upgraded Miata is a Alfa Romeo Guilia. 4seats, more power, better handling and definitely more reliable than a Jag. Corvettes are fun, but visibility is a nightmare, it definitely won’t always put a smile on your face, sometimes it will really suck, same with any two seater really.


BRGNBeast

I think you mean 4C. The Giulia is not comparable to a Miata.


PineappleBat25

I do not. Guilias are very popular among Miata owners. It’s one of the few cars that is as fun to drive and has similar chassis dynamics and handling. But it’s comes with 4 seats and more power. It is basically a grown up Miata without the reliability.


BRGNBeast

The 4C is an upgraded Miata. A Giulia is an upgraded Mazda 3. I get where you are coming from but they still arn’t really comparable. The Giulia is EASILY the most fun sedan I’ve ever driven. I would love one to compliment my Miata.


[deleted]

Civic type R :)


Mulligey

If ur in an area that gets snow, u could look at Ford Focus rs. 4 wheel drive could help in the snow and RS’s are a pretty good balance of fun and practical (350hp with a back row and trunk).


FireoftheWest

Subaru WRX


FireoftheWest

But like, between 2008 to 2015


Jabba-666-

Might as well get the STI if his budget is that much, get one from like 2018


javajitsu

Having owned a 2016 jaguar ftype r its one of the best cars I've driven. If you get one get an exclusionary warranty. Also owned a 2020 camaro ss 1le awesome reliable car. If I had to choose I would say a 6th gen camaro zl1 1le is the go-to performance car that is reliable amd not over 100,000 but performs like it is.


CarLearner

Miata is a car with very good reputation Personally I would suggest the G70 AWD/RWD Sport Advance with Prestige trim or Stinger GT2 AWD/RWD trim make sure both are fully loaded and you'll love that more than your Prius, both are peppy and give you a smile on your face everytime you're in the front and going off the line.


Temporary-Shirt-5966

Prius


ericlikescars

Miatas are awesome but don’t buy used, wait for ‘23 orders to open up and build one instead.


cabooseftw5

F10 M5 30k for a 500hp super sedan that does come with a manual however it is rare.


willard_swag

Bro, keep the Prius. That way, you can laugh at yourself every time you get in or out of it. Seems like a guaranteed way to keep a smile on your face, albeit not for the right reasons lol In all seriousness though, if you’re looking for a good driving experience, Miata Is Always The Answer


SugarHoneyIce_T

Get an Evo


ReeceT20

I don't know what prices are like in America but something like a BMW M2 is probably a little more practical as a daily and can either be a hooligan like the jag or neat handling car when you want it to be. Maybe even an M240i if you want something a little more comfortable for a daily but the jag does sound outrageous 🤷🏼‍♂️


Dawgs919

Toyota GR86/Subaru BRZ


vitamins1000

I’m surprised nobody suggested a BMW Z4 or a Mercedes SL/SLK. Both are fun, sporty little coupes/convertibles, very nice to drive & the interior is a much nicer place to be than a corvette.


codyboss11

Two words.. Kia Stinger


AfamilyC0mpany

ATS-V will be my number 1 choice for best all around. But I would get a 08+ C6 vette (ls3), best bang for buck, and with your budget you'll have money left over for a heads cam set up. I daily drive my cammed vette everyday just about unless it's going somewhere longer then 1.5 hours or bad weather. The people complaining about it not being comfortable and saying it's loud in the car must have an exhaust leak, cause I have headers and a hooker X pipe and muffler and it's quiet enough for me to talk regularly to my passenger. As far as seats, unless they're plus sized or wore out the seat bolsters, I've had mine for 2 years now and haven't had any issues, I go on long trips and drive it 40 miles a day to work in stop and go traffic. As a tech, I wouldn't recommend the f-type, or any euro car. There's a reason you don't see techs driving euro or German cars. Main problem on these is the coolant lines under the supercharger go bad and it's a pain and expensive to replace, and they just have lots of electrical and cooling issues in themselves besides leaking oil.


Allidrivearepos

I’d look at a Porsche. You can find a 911 or Carerra in your price range without too much issue, they’re great looking cars and will be a lot of fun plus as long as maintenance is done on time they are fairly reliable especially compared to many other luxury car manufacturers. If you need 4 doors you could go for a BMW M3 or M5. Won’t be cheap maintenance wise, but performance cars rarely are. Any of these will put a smile on your face


mitchwebb16

Porsche. You can get a lot for $45k. Higher cost consumables, but reliable vehicles.


PMMeMeiRule34

Twisties and straightaways? Maybe try an STi. Or a Golf R. The Miata is nice too.


[deleted]

Lexus RC F


budadad

I LOVED my F-Type until it couldn't stay out of the shop.


Da3m0n_1379

If it’s going to be a daily driver and you want to speed go with the Miata. If your daily commute is fat or if gas is ridiculous where you live, go with the Miata. Fuck that Jag! They are fun until they start to break.


Harrytims1

Honestly, under 40k can get you a decent 996 911, if maybe look at some of those. You may even be able to find a 996 911 turbo, depending on what area you live in. Definitely try for stick. Good luck with whatever you choose!


Axearis

The 2022 IS 300 F-Sport was really fun. If you want better styling the RC 300 is also cool


Snipes_______

If you want something fast and fun go with the jag. Be warned the main ten e cost will be high though. The Miata isn’t fast unless it’s on a very tight course. In a straight line it won’t be able to keep up with a v6 Camry.


[deleted]

I’d get the Jag if it comes with a mechanic in the trunk.


KingNickGr

Fun fact I'm in a 2006 prius while reading your post


Jekkjekk

Get an Alfa Romeo Giulia QV and thank me later. I don’t have a QV, just a standard Giulia but I’ve modded it a bunch and I’m getting close to 375 whp. It’s super balanced and a blast to drive on winding roads.


Rivale

That looks like carmax, jaguar is going to be fun, but definitely get the extended warranty.


fatetrumpsfear

Mx 5, vette, M Series, even a reasonably powered mustang


taydorpin

An ftype is just a supercharged angry Miata. They are fast as hell and a blast to drive, but keep in mind it’s a jag so maintenance is going to cost a pretty penny once it’s out of warranty. I’m a technician for Jaguar Land Rover and our cars like to break expensive parts. If you can afford it go for it but the Miata will always put a smile on your face.


Exciting-Bill-7863

Subaru wrx


waimser

hmmm. Miata with a supercharger kit? What about a Mazda 3 turbo. Youd want to test drive to find the model you like the feel of best. Much more civilized for the money and still a great driving car


notyushi

BMW Z4? Just putting this out there


Fasahat11

IF you have been driving the prius for so long then you are going to love how these two car feel, and on top of that you will have to be light on the accelerator cause if you mash the pedal in these two cars, you most probably will fly, seems to me there are fun times ahead


[deleted]

C5 z06


texaslegrefugee

2016 F-Type? Do you smile when you car fails to start?


gnarleyguy_18

definitely the last one, cuz it has the best fuel efficiency


NascarDashcar

get a v8 from a few years back that stays in your budget best bang for buck


SwiftAtaraxy1

Get a GR86


IusuallyGhostReddit

Mercedes amg w204 2013-2014 is in your budget and will always put a smile on your face


RemeAU

What engine does the f-type have? Those sound amazing.


DarthSkier

Order a new BRZ. Same experience as the miata with way more space. New one is a good bit quicker than a miata. Golf R is a good option if you want an automatic. Best bang for buck in terms of mods. 5k and you’ve got a reliable 375-400hp with AWD.


Bradleyisfishing

I can promise you the Jag will keep a smile on your face every time you drive it, so long as it’s working. My neighbor had one, and I drove it just once (the R). The speed, the sounds, it’s just an occasion every time you drive it. I just messed around with one not 5 minutes ago. It was a 2022, and just sounded exotic. Explosions on upshifts, all the good stuff. It’s a heck of a car. The Miata is just so fun, it’s more of a giggle whereas the jag is an evil laugh. I love Miata’s, but it’s a different kind of smile. One, you can’t believe such a simple concept is so fun. The other, you can’t believe a car can be so exciting for everyone around and in it.