Friend has 20k to spend on a used or new car
 

I have a friend who is currently 20 and a college student here in Norcal is looking for a car around 20k to replace his current 1998 Honda Accord. He's going to be moving to San Diego next year to go to school down there and he was wondering what car should he get for around 20k within this month. He was originally going to get a 08/09 Civic, but the car is hot and its not going to be avaiable for a while and he needs are car now. He wants something fun, with space, gas saver, and looks sporty/nice. So far he's looked at a used 03 Z4 and thats about it. I recommended GTI, Civic SI, WRX. But I can't really think of what else for him to look at or get around 20k brand new or used. Any suggestion you guys?

Mazda3 Speed hatch
Used s2000

I think an evo 8 or 9 is a good choice for him. You can get alot of mileage if you shift before boost (over 30 mpg). You can find one for 17k to 20k. Its fast and definately spacey. It looks sexy in my opinion. The only thing is the maintenance on turbo cars is a little more complicated but if he is down for learning about them then he should be fine.

acura tl, rx type s, bmw 325i, A4, cobalt ss, mazdaspeed 3/6, rx8, magnum r/t, g35, is250, there are a ton of cars you can choose from at that price point. It all depends on what he likes and what his needs are.

Civic Si sedan

That was what he was going to get, but they're like sold out around here. He needs to like get a car within the next few days because they're family car broke down and his mom is going to take over his car while he gets another car. I suggest all the cars suggested and he's going to try to look at them tomorrow.

how bout the....oh wait wut was it....? ............ugh........o ya the s2000?

Uhm... S, that's what I got. At first I got an EP3 and then thought, extra space is for leeches, the few times you move you'd rather rent a uhaul/pickup (cheaper to rent one of those than to fix the inevitable scratches and scuffs, plus it's a whole lot easier), do you really want to be the DD, do you really want to be the DD AND driving your car, and it still gets relatively good gas. If frugality is your issue (where you would need higher mpg than approx 27 highway), your budget shouldn't be <20K, should be like <10K.

All that have been mentioned are great choices. Another one is the IS300 or the TSX. Otherwise IMHO I would get something cheap and reliable car since he's going to college. Less bills to worry about during school. :thumbup: When he's done he can buy whatever he wants. Just my two cents.

I like the looks of the new Matrix, especially the XRS with the 18" wheels. some versatility with the hatch, still decent gas mileage. and i would expect low maintenance, low insurance costs, etc