In the next few months it'll be time for a new car. We have 1 son who's a year and 3/4 and another one on the way in December. The P5 has 225,000 km and the wife is convinced it's time to get a new car. It needs about a grand of work (tires, shock, etc) but is still running very well but rust is starting to take hold.
Criteria:
1. Manual Transmission
2. Reasonable amount of space (no Minivans)
3. Reasonably fuel efficent (see 2.)
4. Fun to drive (See 2.)
5. Budget of 15k.
#1 on the list rules out the majority of the cars available but it also seems those with a manual are slow sellers so maybe there's some negotiating room. After looking at available options here's what I've narrowed it down to.
1) Saab 9-3 Sport Combi - 2.0T - 6spd Manual
There's a 2007 with 54,000 km at a used dealer (though a high end used dealer, not a shady corner lot) for $14,500. That's a TON of car for the money. I had a look at it and it's in fantastic shape. I love the looks, not sure how it drives but by all accounts they're good driving cars with great seats.
The wild card is when will the "Saab start to show"? I know these things aren't the most reliable but there was a refresh in 2007 which took care of the major issues people were having. The drivetrain should be solid. Can anyone provide insight (AS?) into how these will be over the next 3-4 years and 70,000 km? I'm ok with the odd repair here and there but several hundred dollars every few months is unacceptable. Wife really likes it.
2) Mazda6 Wagon - 3.0 V6 - 5sp Manual
This one has been for sale for a while, it has 84,000 km -
http://www.usedottawa.com/classified-ad/2005-Mazda-Mazda-6-Sport-Wagon_15585035I've always liked these wagons, but only in manual. The aftermarket rims would go and it comes with winters, which is nice. Should be reasonably reliable and the price is decent.
3) Subaru Legacy Wagon - 2.5L - 5 Speed Manual
They're more common than any of the others, probably reasonably reliable. They hold their value well and to get one in my price range will probably have ~100,000 km and be an '05-06. One problem - Wife doesn't like them.
4) Volvo V50 Wagon
Can be had in my price range with similar miles to the Mazda6. They're not known for their reliability but I think they've improved since they were first introduced. A little smaller than the others listed but I'm not overly concerned about that. Roof box will be used when needed.
http://www.autotrader.ca/a/Volvo/V50/TORONTO/Ontario/5_11438342_20100405073636966/Others considered
Honda Element - Really like these. They were over priced when new and are massively over priced used. That said, if we have a third kid the low depreciation is a plus. If the right deal came along I'd jump on it.
Mazda5 - These check all the "brain" boxes. Manual, space, economy, fun to drive. They're cheap used too. But the rust issue is looming and I don't see myself loving it. I'd always be rationalizing it based on practicality. I love the P5. Sure it has its shortcomings but even still I love driving it. I don't see that happening with the 5.