Thanks for all of the replies so far, guys(and gals). I would like to say a few things about the above comments. $15-17K is not all that I can afford, it's all that I would like to spend on a car right now. This car would not be a "reward" or gift for getting into college. I earned the money, and am simply looking for a car to drive while at school. I should also state that I'm not looking for a car to pick up women, and I don't really care about girls, drinking, and parties. I'm there to learn. Another thing, is that if I were to park on campus, I believe I would let it get dirty and hopefully "blend in" with the other cars in the garage(I know, I know, I used to be fanatical about clean). I'm not going to be obsessed with it if I get one. I will park it on campus, and do my thing as if I didn't have a car until it was time to use it. Sure, I do care if it gets dented up, however, who wants any of their cars to get dented? I think I'm trying to say that it won't be a sort of "prized posession" to me, more of a daily commuter with some style and a little pep(not to mention the convertible top ).

As far as the past cars some of you have asked about here's the list from first until present:

1987 Buick T-Type(extremely built, ran ET streets on the street) 10.8's@128mph
1987 Buick Grand National(beautiful showcar, but built) 11.8's on 93octane, Nitto's and alcohol injection, and 11.3's on slicks/racegas
1990 300ZX TwinTurbo(very clean, and built to around 415hp@flywheel)) No times yet, should be mid-12's though

I have pictures of all if anyone's interested, and the 300ZX is for sale currently.

I've test driven a LOT of cars, and I can say that 15-17K and you can get a lot of car for the money. As far as some of those cars you listed, I've ruled out C4 Corvettes, as well as the older style M3(I test drove a '99 and was extremely unimpressed, although it did handle well(I also believe this is called the e34?)), Mazda RX-7's are out because of reliability(although I think they are beautiful looking), I would like a Supra TT, however, there again, for a nice one, I would have the majority of my money invested, and I don't want to tie up so much money in something like that right now. A C5 Corvette is another possibility, but I haven't come to any conclusions on that one yet. Insurance would be a hinderance with them. In the end, I seem to keep coming back to the S2000.

Honda 224 GTS, could you elaborate on why people would hate me?

Another thing I thought of, is that if I did become attached to it, and worry about every ding, it may be possible for me to rent out one of those U-Store-it garages, and park it there.

ZSAK, what kind of cars did you see in the parking garages, on campus? I haven't had a chance to make it up to the campus yet.


Well, please keep them coming. There is a lot of good info for me to have here.


Thanks, -DC


edit: My GN also had a lot of suspension upgrades(bilstiens, springs, bushings, sway bars, braces, etc...), and I though it was a decent handling car. No where near my Z now, or anywhere close to an S2000 though.

 

There were all types DC. Mostly BMW's, mercedes, acuras Accords, SUVS, mustangs, and a bunch of others I can't remember. For the most part there are no junk cars, they were usally all maintained pretty well. Also the parking garages especaially near the Classroom 1 building have a lot of room between cars. I use to park the furthest away and near better looking or expensive cars. That way I knew I would have less of a chance for dings. So I wouldn't be too worried about it, just be eyefull on where you park. I must say I didn't notice too many s2k's there so that could be a good thing.

 

Sinful6,

You do not need S2000.
You will regret it if you get it. Payment, unless its paid for, also have to worry about assholes in your school who will be jealous and possibly damage your car.

Just get a used Civic or Corolla or something. Don't get hung up on the car while you are in college.

Thats my opinion.

 

If you want focus on studying, buy a bicycle. A good college social life is important. Report back the first time you pass out drunk (we had ethanol punch, free, courtesy of the bio lab).

As to cars, by not keep the 300ZXTT? If you like 11 sec quarters, the s2k is not your baby. Spend the money on a Race Logic traction control unit.

In Florida, if you can stand the heat, get a convertible. Some of your friends may not want to drive home with the top down after being outside on a hot day. Also, there is a lot travel on those interstates, not really top down stuff either.

Don't get a used BMW, you will die in maintenance. Have the bread and really want to be cool...get a new Lotus. Supercharge that and turn 11 sec quarters.

Otherwise, a Miata would be a cool car. Not to expensive to turn people off. Not so precious you and your friends can't kick it around, and easily modified to be reasonably quick and cool at the same time. Add a trunk rack and you can even carry stuff.

 

I could not agree more. My wifes accord, parked in my nice "staff" garage spot looked like someone took a ball-ping hammer to it after a year. Careless dolts.

That is a common problem. Boo on BMW for using a cheap plastic clip.

That's just not true. What's more, many of the cars come with a CPO warranty -- 5/100,000. True, there is a 50 dollar deductible involved ... but it's better than nothing.

There are a lot of good comments in this thread, most of which I agree with.

My 2 cents, if you are dead set on having a car in college. Drive every car in question, back to back. Make your decision. Used 98-99 M roadsters are in the same price range as 00-01 S2000's. Be aware that the 98 M roadsters don't have tractcion control (and none of the S2000's do) -- but then again the ASC system found on the 98-00 cars is fairly shitty to begin with.

 

allkingz says it best

 

Im too lazy to read all of the replies....so im sure its been said...

1) As far as theft, if they want it, they WILL get it, no matter what.

2) Gas Mileage: I get anywhere from 20 - 22 MPG and i drive hard, and long (almost 30 miles one way from home to school)

3) I leave mine on campus, and dont worry too much (besides thats what insurance is for)

4) Modability: There are a lot of things you can do, with out going broke. Intake, header and exhaust will net you a decent gain for a motor that is already almost maxxed out from the factory, and wont cost you much more than $1500 if you use your head, and shop around.

5) Space: thats all personal preference. Im also a college student, and its more than enough.

6) Reliability: Its a honda....nuff said! (treat it good, and it will treat you good)

I would say go for it, but again, it really depends on what you want, in your heart! I love the car, and dont regret a single thing about buying it!

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by soundzero
Sinful6,

You do not need S2000.
You will regret it if you get it.

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Honda 224 GTS
The most important thing to graduate with is a strong network of buddies.

 

bleh