WarrenW

All those sound like good options. Maybe add a Mitsu Lancer Rally Art in there too. It's Mitsu's answer to the WRX and w/o an outlandish rear spoiler.

Everything else will end up being FWD or too sporty for what your requirements (i.e. the 350/370 Z.).

hyperpm

2010 Mazda 3 hatchback or sedan with 2.5 motor. Based on car mags, it's very fun to drive. I have an 08 turbo version and can vouch for the fun to drive factor.

SIIK2NR

BMW 335 or M3 fits your bill.

triman54

I don't know of too many people who would cross shop a Civic with a 3 Series BMW. Plus, the Civic has a pretty high strung engine, so I would call it a quiet car. If you're looking for quiet, consider a GTI or GLI. Once the turbo is in the sweet spot and the car is crusing, it's relatively quiet.

08YellowCR

GTI for sure after i drove one i really want one. Nice interior fun to drive and with just a chip mod they are much faster.

Chris S

Wow, some of y'all need to read the requirements again!

Hyundai Genesis Coupe seems like a no-brainer to me...

ralper

Thank you everyone for the feedback. I now have a whole new list of cars to look at.

As I said, I have a full year to make up my mind, so I can start take my time.

Please keep the suggestions coming.

ralper

I'm not sure, but I certainly am going to look at it. I seems like a mighty nice car.

Christople

MS3

Genesis Coupe

MrClean

The VW GTI is the answer.

The GTI has a fun factor only matched by the S2000. You drive it because it's enjoyable, because it communicates and because it is uncomplicated.

The GTI, surprisely, has utility only matched by more family-oriented vehicles. Throw the rear seats down and load up like a wagon or SUV. The head clearance and seating/leg room is only matched by much, much larger and less sporty vehicles.

The amount of technology you get for the money is absurd! Touch screen features, Dynaudio, Bluetooth, Latest NAVI, and an E-differential that makes you believe the car's got a LSD.

Go drive one and tell me I'm wrong.