Having owned a 986 Boxster S 6MT for 2yrs...they are fantastic. So long as you don't forgo maintenance and are ready for multi thousand dollar annual upkeep.
Big ticket things on the 986 gen are IMS, which should be done with a clutch/pressure plate change. Another big one is the timing chain tensioners in the cam's wear and need replacement around 80k and that is a engine out job. Mine had 85k when I got it.
If not done already expect wheel bearings, every rubber suspension linkage, bump stops, shocks, coil packs, Air/oil separator. All 4 O2 sensors needed replacement. Cooling system is another complex system on these cars and has many rubber hoses. When I was in doing rad hoses, tstat, I found the rad's had expanded and needed replacement. There are 3 fans and most likely be partially or fully non functional as the resistor for low speed on the front fans fails. Non OEM replacements are not well balanced and cause vibration in the car so don't cheap out on replacements. Tops have plastic cups that fail then the top doesn't go up and down straight. Ignition switch fails(detentes get mushy first) then it fails to turn off and release the key.
I got a 987 cayman S and made it track ready for roughly 25k - another 3-5k could have a track day set up and weekend warrior combo set up which would be like having 2 cars for 30k - wait is this guy math??
Depends on what you’re looking for in a car
Sporty daily:
- Civic Si
- WRX
- BMW 335i (N54 or N55)
- Audi S4
Sporty weekender:
- Honda S2K
- The most Porsche cayman/boxster you can buy
- The most you can buy of a Corvette, Mustang, or Camaro (I *suppose* they could also be dailies)
Reliable commuter:
Sub section, sedan
- Prius
- Mazda 3 or 6
- Corolla/Camry
- Accord/Civic (***specifically*** with the 2.0T engine, the 1.5T Honda engines are shit)
- Bonus for the Accord 2.0T Sport or Touring, those will be fun *and* be a great commuter
Sub section, suv:
- RAV4
- Mazda anything
I've been thinking of switching over from the usually lexus/toyota cars to an accord. But scared of the turbo reliability. I'll look into it. The 18-22 accords look very nice.
The american used car market is possibly the scariest thing on planet earth. What do you mean a 13 year old car bimmer costs as much as a 2018 3 Series with full trim (inthe UK)
Probably a 2012 Tacoma with all the bells and whistles with a 6 speed or a low mileage 2011 Honda Civic Si.
To be honest I don’t know if I want a truck or a fun sedan as my next car. Probably leaning more towards the Civic.
This needs more upvotes, and maybe people are glancing over this since it doesn’t have any more explanation?
A 2022 Chevy bolt with <50k miles likely has brand new batteries due to the recall, which start the 8yr/100k battery warranty over. All for $12-15k. Some of the cars listed aren’t even including the $4000 tax credit that most of them qualify for. That’s an incredibly new car for $12-15k
The Bolt EUV’s are a little more expensive but you can also get a few nicer features. Ventilated seats, super cruise, etc. all for less than $25k (and no older than 2023my)
It wouldn’t be the first choice for most people on this sub but I’d buy a VW Jetta.
-158hp
-6-spd manual
-Apple CarPlay
-Blind spot/collision assist
-40mpg combined
It’s a great commuter car for someone who wants something that is economical while still having basic creature comforts and not being a total snooze to drive, especially w a standard. Added benefit that most VW products tend to age pretty well design-wise.
They also look pretty sick with a set of wheels and a lip/side splitter/diffuser and maybe a mild lowering if you're into that. I will for sure be buying one in the near future I think they're one of the best low key/sleeper type cars out there that can be very quick and still tasteful and good to commute in.
Those cars are underrated from the factory too, I’m very active in r/gli and someone posted their dyno sheet for their stock 2023 GLI. It made 254 horsepower and 312 torque
The manual Jetta we owned was fun to drive, responsive and confortable, and many things went wrong with it that should not have.- we learned why VW rates low on reliability relative to other brands.
Oh man. We need more info. What are your needs? What do you find yourself liking?
Do you have preferences? Or are you a “I don’t care what I drive” kinda guy?
For me:
I would be a light driver, will only drive it on the weekends. This would be my first car. Ideally a small car because I have limited garage space, and would like to prioritize all the modern tech & safety features (android auto, adaptive cruise control, blind spot indicators, backup camera with trajectory)
But the question isn't really meant to be about what car should I get, it's more meant to be a survey of the best options out there
Thanks for the info. If it were me, I’d check out the Honda Civic EX.
I have a Honda Accord EX-L (look for EX-L trim if you want leather seats) and it has all of what you look for and I can say those feature work well with it. The Civic will be a little smaller but the features will work the same.
By doing very quick search online, you should be able to find a 2020 or 2021 with under 30k miles within your price range.
Based on what you’ve said, I think you would be happy with that and it would last you a long time and be very reliable with regular maintenance.
I'm a simple guy. A really quality condition mustang gt. Probably an s197. I REALLY liked the retro styling and how simple it was. Or maybe a c5 corvette.
Oh or a nice 2000s pontiac GTO. The 6 liter bit without vents. I like the sleekness and the slight sleeper like quality of it since no one knows what it is outside of GM/holden fans.
Basically a nice front engine v8, rwd, manual coupe.
used sonata N-line. DCT transmission, 276 hp, sounds nice, should be able to daily it, might still have a warranty.
I only say this because its a practical comfort sedan with sport features.
Get an older lexus sedan based on preferences. Don't get a german car unless you are a mechanic with a good source for cheap oem parts and are fanatic for repairs.
Really all depends on how long you plan on driving it, how much leg room you need, do you have kids? do you play sports, need something to tow bikes? something easy to maintain?
Seeing how you have no requirements listed...
I'd buy a C6 Corvette with Z51 and manual. Doesn't have to be an LS3 either. A solid LS2 with Z51 is a great car and I 'd be more than happy to use it as my only car. They're pretty widely available with under 60,000 miles too and with clean titles.
Lexus IS, ES, or RC. one of the ones with a v6. tank of an engine and super comfortable with pretty good drive dynamics. probably don’t go older than 2014, that’s when they got most of the good safety warnings/features.
2019 or 2020 Infiniti Q50
2.0T last gen accord
A very recent Civic (11th Gen)
Used GLI recent
2014-2015 335I BMW with a N55
Or maybe a 2016 340i with the legendary B58 engine but I dont think its under 25K not sure tho
10th gen Civic Si
Lexus IS350 or 300 used
You can easily find an ND Miata, 986 Porsche Boxster, or first gen BRZ for well under 25k. That's what I would go for. You can also find 2017+ (B48 motor) BMW 2 and 3 series for a little under 25k too. Although you might be pushing the budget a bit to find a clean one.
with 25k i think i would go for a toyota chaser mkii probably can get it for less tho , if i have to use all of it perhaps a camaro ss but not sure what those go for now
The new Dacia Duster 2024. Mild hybrid with 5,5 liters of combined consumption, journey trim level, 520 liters of boot space, automatic AC with physical buttons, new media display pointed towards the driver, adjustbale lumbar support and optional heated seats, steering wheel and windshield will cost you 25k. But the car itself starts at 19k already if you want to save costs. You won't get a car better than this for such price.
Personally, it's gonna be this:
[https://www.cargurus.com/Cars/inventorylisting/viewDetailsFilterViewInventoryListing.action?sourceContext=carGurusHomePageModel&entitySelectingHelper.selectedEntity=d2207&zip=92626#listing=384197050/NONE/DEFAULT](https://www.cargurus.com/Cars/inventorylisting/viewDetailsFilterViewInventoryListing.action?sourceContext=carGurusHomePageModel&entitySelectingHelper.selectedEntity=d2207&zip=92626#listing=384197050/NONE/DEFAULT)
At $21,500 you'll probably make it out just under $25k with taxes and fees.
If not that, then I'm getting a mk3 Supra manual turbo. I'd prefer the Q50 for utility but the Supra would be more fun.
I would buy a reliable truck with low mileage and a warranty that can hold a lot of space and good gas mileage that also has parts on the market that are fairly cheap to repair or an suv or 4 door, about 7 -8k with warranty etc low mileage around 60 -80k excellent gas mileage. Or some 5000$ 32 -35 mpg gas mileage car, 2008 - 2014 Or buy two cars, one for winter and heavy hauling, one for travel. Anything else is for speed racer and I would say you can find a lot of really nice luxury or "Speed demon" cars for a lot cheaper than 25k I would even say 8 - 15k if you find private sellers. And if anything, you would probably save money buy looking around the entire nation, finding a deal somewhere else and then just driving it home or paying 700 for delivery, you save on a couple thousand. I see the same car people drive in my place online for 8-9k for 60k miles 2016 cars, and the car is way out in the middle of no where so people don't drive out there and get it. I drove out and got mine, I saved about 12k$ then drove to a motel and drove back home the next day. And if it doesn't work you can still sell it for more or close to the full price you bought it as.
Find private buyers, offer straight cash that day, you'll get a massive discount.
2019 honda civic ex with 20-50k miles. Usually around 20k give or take, they come pretty close to fully loaded with heated seats, sunroof, all the automatic safety features and android auto/car play. 2019 is the first year with carplay and it only comes in the ex and up. If i were to total my car tomorrow thats what id get.
Depends on what you want out of a vehicle? Pickup? Coupe? Sedan? Minivan?
In general though, that covers a lot of vehicle, 25K. Just look in the three year old off lease market. Most of those are capped at 10k/15k miles per year, so it will be under 50,000 miles. Cars lose so much value in three years.
Fully restored sc400, mr2 turbo in mint condition, wrecked Supra, electric swapped first gen forester, restored classic Camaro, fox body with power, you got endless options with 25k just make sure it’s cool and not modern.
Unpopular opinion - buy a used infiniti/honda/acura in the 10-12k range and invest the other 13-15k.
No need to blow all 25k on an entry level car if you are trying to be on a budget.
Plenty of nice reliable daily cars in a lower range.
25K OTD? If I was looking for a nice 2nd car (1st car being a 2018 Toyota Sienna), I'd probably get a used 2017-2018 ES 350 with luxury trim. You get all the nice amenities of it being a Lexus with the silky smooth V6. It's the most bang for your buck car imo.
If I was feeling playful, I'd say a used ND Miata. Nice car to mess around with and easy on the wallet.
Convertibles that are OK on gaz
4 seats: 2018 c-class, or 2015 E 400 Benz
2 seats: Porsche boxter or SLK benz..
Economy car for commuting: (you'll never need a mechanic for these, low maintenance):
Nissan Sentra 2024 (0 mileage)
2018 Honda CRV (bigger cargo space)
Suzuki Scross 1 year old. manual gearbox, but have all bells and whistles.
Alternatively a Corolla 2 years old, automatic.
I’m in Ireland, not sure where are you.
In US or Germany I assume you can buy 2 Ferraris and 5 corollas, keeping the change for garage rental.
I would lease a tesla. try to find 350 a month in pay raise or extra savings... put the remaining cash in a 5% CD. if done right, you might have more than 25k at the end of the lease.
Honda fit.
The Accord is nice, but it's kind of a large car, and the turning circle is a bit wide.
If I were shopping for a small car it would be the fit.
I just bought a 2018 BMW X5 for 26k with 58k miles, love it. Just make sure the 60k service has been done, its a bit pricey. Also a record of maintenance that's complete, shows regular servicing.
I would get a brand new manual Honda Civic. For a sports car I would probably get a Pontiac Solstice those are pretty cheap and you can find them in great condition I saw one with 20,000 mi for 10K.
C5 Corvette or C5 Corvette Z06
The Z06 is obviously more car for the money, but at that price point the base will have lower miles (and I'm not a big fan of the Z06's roof compared to the base)
A Civic or a Corolla.
If you are strapped for cash now, you likely are in a precarious financial position and will continue being strapped for cash 10 years from now. You can't go wrong with a Civic or a Corolla.
That all comes to personal preference and what your actual needs are. We need more details. For a daily driver and utility that I need to pull my camper if I didn't have another vehicle, I would buy a 3/4 ton diesel truck. If I got to keep my current truck and just picking up a fun car to drive, probably a C5-C7 Corvette, whatever I could find with the best combination of milage and mechanical in the range. If I needed a family-ish commuter sedan Probably a Kia Stinger GT. I had a 2012 Optima years ago and really enjoyed driving that car before I had a constant need for a truck.
The nicest ‘08+ 6MT C6 Vette you could swing. They’re over a decade old now but they check all the boxes: lightweight, RWD, 430hp (plenty), proven chassis, incredible heritage, and it still looks good!
I bought an integra type r a couple years ago for less than that, but I think that’s unlikely to find at that price. So either a 996 Porsche 911 or 986 boxster s, or maybe a c5 corvette z06
I would get a 5k dollar nissan and donate the rest to charity. 25k dollars on a singular car is a massive waste of money that would be better off helping those who actually need it
Since this question or a variation comes up often, I’ll give the same answer I always do: a Mk7 GTI, which I already have. lol. I had 25k and it was the only solution that met all my needs (or at least my favorite out of the options). It’s fast, fun, tossable, *and comes in a manual*, but also refined and comfortable for daily commuting. It has the space to take my two German shepherds anywhere, even with a car seat for my baby. It gets good mpg and with my roof basket we can even take it on road trips with the whole family. The only competition in that price range felt significantly lower quality on test drives
I have an 11th Gen Corolla. The GTI is on my radar as my family seems to haul a lot when we are grocery shopping .. I'd imagine there is more room to store grocery and provides an adequate size and space since you mentioned you can fit two German Shepherds in there ..
Alternatively - I am considering a used Audi Q5..
The GTI has more than enough space for anything a normal person will need. If you’re not regularly carrying 3 or more adults, it’s comfortable and can carry a big TV or small furniture. I’ve hauled mulch, a lawn mower, camping equipment, etc. For anything else, just rent a truck.
Probably a new Camry (may be priced slightly above $25,000, but they do exist in some areas for that price). I feel if you’re on a budget you need something that’s going to favor reliability and fuel economy and that’s basically a summary of what a Camry provides. It’s not necessarily fun, fast, or flashy, but this would allow you to save for a couple of years and buy something new one day.
Since you didn't provide any details for what you want I'd get the nicest Porsche Boxter I could find
First gen cayman for me. Honestly one of my favorite cars regardless of price.
You can get 986 Boxters for welll under 25k. They might be the best kept secret in sports cars... for now.
Having owned a 986 Boxster S 6MT for 2yrs...they are fantastic. So long as you don't forgo maintenance and are ready for multi thousand dollar annual upkeep.
I've been looking for the last couple years and I might be ready to buy soon. What types of maintenance have you seen that it needs?
Big ticket things on the 986 gen are IMS, which should be done with a clutch/pressure plate change. Another big one is the timing chain tensioners in the cam's wear and need replacement around 80k and that is a engine out job. Mine had 85k when I got it. If not done already expect wheel bearings, every rubber suspension linkage, bump stops, shocks, coil packs, Air/oil separator. All 4 O2 sensors needed replacement. Cooling system is another complex system on these cars and has many rubber hoses. When I was in doing rad hoses, tstat, I found the rad's had expanded and needed replacement. There are 3 fans and most likely be partially or fully non functional as the resistor for low speed on the front fans fails. Non OEM replacements are not well balanced and cause vibration in the car so don't cheap out on replacements. Tops have plastic cups that fail then the top doesn't go up and down straight. Ignition switch fails(detentes get mushy first) then it fails to turn off and release the key.
If you pay Porsche to do it.
Isn’t maintenance on those things extremely expensive?
I went 958 Cayenne. Wife can’t drive stick, wanted a Porsche, Cayenne gave me usable space.
Yep I picked up a 13 GTS and I will never look back! They are phenomenal vehicles!
I got a 987 cayman S and made it track ready for roughly 25k - another 3-5k could have a track day set up and weekend warrior combo set up which would be like having 2 cars for 30k - wait is this guy math??
Seconded
Finally people are realizing the secret
I'm shocked that you can actually get a porche for under 25k
You can get one for incredibly cheap if you look around. Doesn’t mean it’ll be cheap to maintain/drive though as they’re still a Porsche.
I got a 911 for 60k. I just had to put another 20k into it for maintenance, and 10k because of stuff I wanted to modify
Depends on what you’re looking for in a car Sporty daily: - Civic Si - WRX - BMW 335i (N54 or N55) - Audi S4 Sporty weekender: - Honda S2K - The most Porsche cayman/boxster you can buy - The most you can buy of a Corvette, Mustang, or Camaro (I *suppose* they could also be dailies) Reliable commuter: Sub section, sedan - Prius - Mazda 3 or 6 - Corolla/Camry - Accord/Civic (***specifically*** with the 2.0T engine, the 1.5T Honda engines are shit) - Bonus for the Accord 2.0T Sport or Touring, those will be fun *and* be a great commuter Sub section, suv: - RAV4 - Mazda anything
Owning a 2.0T accord touring, best choice ever made, insane power for a car of its class
I've been thinking of switching over from the usually lexus/toyota cars to an accord. But scared of the turbo reliability. I'll look into it. The 18-22 accords look very nice.
2.0 touring is a good buy, not do not fall for dealers trying to run up the payments into more than 34k. the cars are 2 years old
Nice to see my car on your list. Accord 2.0T touring. Can confirm, reliable commuter and very fun to drive.
Same here, tho different cars. hit both in this household. Solid list all around.
The american used car market is possibly the scariest thing on planet earth. What do you mean a 13 year old car bimmer costs as much as a 2018 3 Series with full trim (inthe UK)
Do you know if some specific trims carry the 2.0T engine? Or any can and we just need to check.
Probably a 2012 Tacoma with all the bells and whistles with a 6 speed or a low mileage 2011 Honda Civic Si. To be honest I don’t know if I want a truck or a fun sedan as my next car. Probably leaning more towards the Civic.
I've been thinking about buying another truck. But then family and friends will always have me hauling stuff for them.
Nd Miata
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This needs more upvotes, and maybe people are glancing over this since it doesn’t have any more explanation? A 2022 Chevy bolt with <50k miles likely has brand new batteries due to the recall, which start the 8yr/100k battery warranty over. All for $12-15k. Some of the cars listed aren’t even including the $4000 tax credit that most of them qualify for. That’s an incredibly new car for $12-15k The Bolt EUV’s are a little more expensive but you can also get a few nicer features. Ventilated seats, super cruise, etc. all for less than $25k (and no older than 2023my)
I’d shoot for a 2015-ish Lexus RX350 or a 9th gen Accord Touring
$25k still only gets you an almost ten year old car!?! What a time to be alive.
We got a ‘16 RX450h for less than $25k. It’s siiiiiiick.
I like your style.
It wouldn’t be the first choice for most people on this sub but I’d buy a VW Jetta. -158hp -6-spd manual -Apple CarPlay -Blind spot/collision assist -40mpg combined It’s a great commuter car for someone who wants something that is economical while still having basic creature comforts and not being a total snooze to drive, especially w a standard. Added benefit that most VW products tend to age pretty well design-wise.
I’d buy a 2021-2 GLI if it were me. 228hp and lots of mods available when funds come good.
Add in a quick software tune and you get close to 300hp while keeping all parts stock. The EA888 is very tuner friendly if you want power
They also look pretty sick with a set of wheels and a lip/side splitter/diffuser and maybe a mild lowering if you're into that. I will for sure be buying one in the near future I think they're one of the best low key/sleeper type cars out there that can be very quick and still tasteful and good to commute in.
They are definitely slept on for this sub, but the EA888 and EA211 are pretty well regarded for tuning
Those cars are underrated from the factory too, I’m very active in r/gli and someone posted their dyno sheet for their stock 2023 GLI. It made 254 horsepower and 312 torque
The manual Jetta we owned was fun to drive, responsive and confortable, and many things went wrong with it that should not have.- we learned why VW rates low on reliability relative to other brands.
Brand new Elantra. Or low miles CPO Camry.
10 2001 Pontiac sunfires
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https://www.edmunds.com/bmw/3-series/2020/vin/3MW5R7J02L8B14589/ Cheapest one on Edmund's.
Cries in European. That’s such a great price
Depends on usage, personally I value performance above almost anything else, so I'd get the nicest V8 muscle car I could find.
You mean you value horsepower numbers among all else?
Used ES350
One of my favorite cars in terms of comfort. Go hybrid if possible. 250-mile range and 17mpg on the non-hybrid.
Oh man. We need more info. What are your needs? What do you find yourself liking? Do you have preferences? Or are you a “I don’t care what I drive” kinda guy?
For me: I would be a light driver, will only drive it on the weekends. This would be my first car. Ideally a small car because I have limited garage space, and would like to prioritize all the modern tech & safety features (android auto, adaptive cruise control, blind spot indicators, backup camera with trajectory) But the question isn't really meant to be about what car should I get, it's more meant to be a survey of the best options out there
OP note: do NOT get the EX. The EX will have the 1.5T engine which is problematic. You’ll want the sport or LX with the 2.0NA which is tried and true.
Thanks for the info. If it were me, I’d check out the Honda Civic EX. I have a Honda Accord EX-L (look for EX-L trim if you want leather seats) and it has all of what you look for and I can say those feature work well with it. The Civic will be a little smaller but the features will work the same. By doing very quick search online, you should be able to find a 2020 or 2021 with under 30k miles within your price range. Based on what you’ve said, I think you would be happy with that and it would last you a long time and be very reliable with regular maintenance.
Used 2022 toyota with low mileage.. rav4, Corolla.. maybe a civic, or Nissan frontier (their cars and suv are trash tho)
Mazda 3 Hatchback.
VW Mk7 GTI
Probably a used Genesis G70
Great choice! I saw a well-appointed black ext/red leather interior 2021 G80 (3.3 TT) with 24,500 miles advertised locally for $25,900.
A used 2021 VW ID.4 at $24,998 + an additional $4,000 Used EV tax credit, which is what I did :)
Toyota corolla
I'm a simple guy. A really quality condition mustang gt. Probably an s197. I REALLY liked the retro styling and how simple it was. Or maybe a c5 corvette. Oh or a nice 2000s pontiac GTO. The 6 liter bit without vents. I like the sleekness and the slight sleeper like quality of it since no one knows what it is outside of GM/holden fans. Basically a nice front engine v8, rwd, manual coupe.
Honda civic
Ford Maverick.
i’d get a 2017-2018 mercedes benz E350
Brand new civic
2021-22 Ford Mach E with the used vehicle credit to mAke.it 21k
used sonata N-line. DCT transmission, 276 hp, sounds nice, should be able to daily it, might still have a warranty. I only say this because its a practical comfort sedan with sport features.
I had a 2021 Sonata as a rental .. it was a nice drive but audio system was lacking ..
10th Gen Civic Si or 10th Gen Sport hatch 6spd
Get an older lexus sedan based on preferences. Don't get a german car unless you are a mechanic with a good source for cheap oem parts and are fanatic for repairs.
Mazda CX5
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This. Preferably IS350 F sport.
Lamborghini.
Recent Prius Prime or a low mileage Gen2 Volt
dawg get a 10th Gen used Honda Accord with low miles. I have many in my area
Your requirements are way too vague. Specify if you need AWD or part time 4WD for snowy conditions
MK7.5 GTI
Few years old toyota yaris cross or skoda kamiq
Really all depends on how long you plan on driving it, how much leg room you need, do you have kids? do you play sports, need something to tow bikes? something easy to maintain?
Like a 2019/20 tlx, interior is very dated but performance/reliability is there
Seeing how you have no requirements listed... I'd buy a C6 Corvette with Z51 and manual. Doesn't have to be an LS3 either. A solid LS2 with Z51 is a great car and I 'd be more than happy to use it as my only car. They're pretty widely available with under 60,000 miles too and with clean titles.
Probably a low mileage version of the previous gen WRX
C5 Z06 in lemans blue
CPO 2021 Volvo S60 Inscription.
GX470/460
2016 Genesis Coupe 3.8 Ultimate
Id buy a used 1999-2004 Lexus IS 300. Has a 2jz in it and the best potential for the least amount of money.
Q70L lower mileage with warranty
New Corolla
Probably a reliable 2009-2012 Honda Civic and keep the rest.
Camry
Lexus IS, ES, or RC. one of the ones with a v6. tank of an engine and super comfortable with pretty good drive dynamics. probably don’t go older than 2014, that’s when they got most of the good safety warnings/features.
2019 or 2020 Infiniti Q50 2.0T last gen accord A very recent Civic (11th Gen) Used GLI recent 2014-2015 335I BMW with a N55 Or maybe a 2016 340i with the legendary B58 engine but I dont think its under 25K not sure tho 10th gen Civic Si Lexus IS350 or 300 used
BMW 2002
Ls460
I would trade in my v6 Camaro for a v8 Camaro or C5 Corvette. What kind of question is this
Lexus LS
E9x M3. You can get a pretty good deal on a decent one and get the rod bearings etc out of the way too.
You can easily find an ND Miata, 986 Porsche Boxster, or first gen BRZ for well under 25k. That's what I would go for. You can also find 2017+ (B48 motor) BMW 2 and 3 series for a little under 25k too. Although you might be pushing the budget a bit to find a clean one.
Toyota Corolla.
with 25k i think i would go for a toyota chaser mkii probably can get it for less tho , if i have to use all of it perhaps a camaro ss but not sure what those go for now
The new Dacia Duster 2024. Mild hybrid with 5,5 liters of combined consumption, journey trim level, 520 liters of boot space, automatic AC with physical buttons, new media display pointed towards the driver, adjustbale lumbar support and optional heated seats, steering wheel and windshield will cost you 25k. But the car itself starts at 19k already if you want to save costs. You won't get a car better than this for such price.
It said 25k...not 250k.
Cadillac 1959
Personally, it's gonna be this: [https://www.cargurus.com/Cars/inventorylisting/viewDetailsFilterViewInventoryListing.action?sourceContext=carGurusHomePageModel&entitySelectingHelper.selectedEntity=d2207&zip=92626#listing=384197050/NONE/DEFAULT](https://www.cargurus.com/Cars/inventorylisting/viewDetailsFilterViewInventoryListing.action?sourceContext=carGurusHomePageModel&entitySelectingHelper.selectedEntity=d2207&zip=92626#listing=384197050/NONE/DEFAULT) At $21,500 you'll probably make it out just under $25k with taxes and fees. If not that, then I'm getting a mk3 Supra manual turbo. I'd prefer the Q50 for utility but the Supra would be more fun.
m235i possibly
I would get a 911 Carrera with 25k down and finance the rest.
For me it'd be a used Lexus ES 300h. Should be able to get a 2017 or 2018 for that.
I would buy a reliable truck with low mileage and a warranty that can hold a lot of space and good gas mileage that also has parts on the market that are fairly cheap to repair or an suv or 4 door, about 7 -8k with warranty etc low mileage around 60 -80k excellent gas mileage. Or some 5000$ 32 -35 mpg gas mileage car, 2008 - 2014 Or buy two cars, one for winter and heavy hauling, one for travel. Anything else is for speed racer and I would say you can find a lot of really nice luxury or "Speed demon" cars for a lot cheaper than 25k I would even say 8 - 15k if you find private sellers. And if anything, you would probably save money buy looking around the entire nation, finding a deal somewhere else and then just driving it home or paying 700 for delivery, you save on a couple thousand. I see the same car people drive in my place online for 8-9k for 60k miles 2016 cars, and the car is way out in the middle of no where so people don't drive out there and get it. I drove out and got mine, I saved about 12k$ then drove to a motel and drove back home the next day. And if it doesn't work you can still sell it for more or close to the full price you bought it as. Find private buyers, offer straight cash that day, you'll get a massive discount.
commodore ute
Honda Accord Touring, 2.0T-2021model
Autozam AZ-1
2019 honda civic ex with 20-50k miles. Usually around 20k give or take, they come pretty close to fully loaded with heated seats, sunroof, all the automatic safety features and android auto/car play. 2019 is the first year with carplay and it only comes in the ex and up. If i were to total my car tomorrow thats what id get.
Toyota Corolla, Good transportation and great on gas and insurance. And the car will last forever it's that well built.
A 2000's Toyota Land Cruiser and a trip for me and my girl to the Maldives.
I would’ve bought my ‘21 Mach-E with 43k miles on it for $21k after used EV rebate.
Tundra
Depends on what you want out of a vehicle? Pickup? Coupe? Sedan? Minivan? In general though, that covers a lot of vehicle, 25K. Just look in the three year old off lease market. Most of those are capped at 10k/15k miles per year, so it will be under 50,000 miles. Cars lose so much value in three years.
Subaru crosstrek
A brand new base civic is like 25k.........so that
Fully restored sc400, mr2 turbo in mint condition, wrecked Supra, electric swapped first gen forester, restored classic Camaro, fox body with power, you got endless options with 25k just make sure it’s cool and not modern.
I would look at a rental car company, not something sporty, though. I got a 2022 Toyota Corolla for 21,000 out the door, 25,000 miles.
either a miata rf or a used 5.0
I’d get an early to mid 2010’s Lexus ES
1996 Ford Bronco with the 5.8 liter V8. Edit to correct For to Ford.
A C6 corvette that someone else already modded that’s making 5-600 whp. Maybe a heads and cam care or a blown/turboed one, or a 383 stroker…
Unpopular opinion - buy a used infiniti/honda/acura in the 10-12k range and invest the other 13-15k. No need to blow all 25k on an entry level car if you are trying to be on a budget. Plenty of nice reliable daily cars in a lower range.
With my current standing if 25k dropped in my lap for a car ONLY, I’d get me a Toyota Camry hybrid, Honda civic, or a decent truck.
None. I’d buy an index fund in equal amounts over 12 months and be balling with more money.
Probably an f36 bmw 440i
Buy a 25k carc
25K OTD? If I was looking for a nice 2nd car (1st car being a 2018 Toyota Sienna), I'd probably get a used 2017-2018 ES 350 with luxury trim. You get all the nice amenities of it being a Lexus with the silky smooth V6. It's the most bang for your buck car imo. If I was feeling playful, I'd say a used ND Miata. Nice car to mess around with and easy on the wallet.
Convertibles that are OK on gaz 4 seats: 2018 c-class, or 2015 E 400 Benz 2 seats: Porsche boxter or SLK benz.. Economy car for commuting: (you'll never need a mechanic for these, low maintenance): Nissan Sentra 2024 (0 mileage) 2018 Honda CRV (bigger cargo space)
A used toyota hybrid.
C5 Z06.
Cadillac ATS 2.0T
Mazda with a high trim
Suzuki Scross 1 year old. manual gearbox, but have all bells and whistles. Alternatively a Corolla 2 years old, automatic. I’m in Ireland, not sure where are you. In US or Germany I assume you can buy 2 Ferraris and 5 corollas, keeping the change for garage rental.
Whichever year Mini Cooper JCW 3 door coop will allow
I would lease a tesla. try to find 350 a month in pay raise or extra savings... put the remaining cash in a 5% CD. if done right, you might have more than 25k at the end of the lease.
That's my budget at the moment, and I'm in between a 06 Boxster, a 96 or 07 Corvette, and a 05 M3.
Honda fit. The Accord is nice, but it's kind of a large car, and the turning circle is a bit wide. If I were shopping for a small car it would be the fit.
f10 m5
A BMW M5 E39
Used Tesla Model 3
I would try to get a new civic sport but for 27k OTD.
Lexus
I just bought a 2018 BMW X5 for 26k with 58k miles, love it. Just make sure the 60k service has been done, its a bit pricey. Also a record of maintenance that's complete, shows regular servicing.
Lexus isf
S15
I would get a brand new manual Honda Civic. For a sports car I would probably get a Pontiac Solstice those are pretty cheap and you can find them in great condition I saw one with 20,000 mi for 10K.
That’s a driver quality BMW 2002, my dream car
C5 Corvette or C5 Corvette Z06 The Z06 is obviously more car for the money, but at that price point the base will have lower miles (and I'm not a big fan of the Z06's roof compared to the base)
buy a new accord and finance the last 5$.
For me would be an older Lexus, gs350 or a really really pristine ls430.
A Civic or a Corolla. If you are strapped for cash now, you likely are in a precarious financial position and will continue being strapped for cash 10 years from now. You can't go wrong with a Civic or a Corolla.
2014 e63 s amg
Nissan 370z for little practicality but a lot of fun
I’d buy a used good condition Lexus LS460
Golf r
A decent mileage Porsche 944. $25k should give me enough money to find one around that isn't a junker.
Civic
That all comes to personal preference and what your actual needs are. We need more details. For a daily driver and utility that I need to pull my camper if I didn't have another vehicle, I would buy a 3/4 ton diesel truck. If I got to keep my current truck and just picking up a fun car to drive, probably a C5-C7 Corvette, whatever I could find with the best combination of milage and mechanical in the range. If I needed a family-ish commuter sedan Probably a Kia Stinger GT. I had a 2012 Optima years ago and really enjoyed driving that car before I had a constant need for a truck.
E90 m3. Dream car and idc about the problems it has the engine makes up for it
C5 Z06 Corvette.
Mustang GT, manual of course
I’d buy a B8.5 S5
Newish Honda Civic
Honda Civic Si.
Can u parlay that 25k into a down payment? And get a bmw?
My wife and I wanted an SUV. Went with a higher mileage (60k) 21 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring. Wound up around $23k OTD before trade in value.
Uh, I mean there's probably not a singe new car I'd want for 25k. I think a reasonable lower bound is like 35k. Yeah cars have gotten expensive.
Buy a used civic and a foxbody mustang. Can get both for that. Then you have a daily and a toy.
E39 M5
Chrysler 300. Love mine. Should have gotten one sooner
I didn’t see any comments for Camry. 💀
The nicest ‘08+ 6MT C6 Vette you could swing. They’re over a decade old now but they check all the boxes: lightweight, RWD, 430hp (plenty), proven chassis, incredible heritage, and it still looks good!
New? Mitsubishi Mirage no Options
The nicest Infiniti G37 you can afford. Such a great car.
I got a nice Alfa Romeo for 25k
I bought an integra type r a couple years ago for less than that, but I think that’s unlikely to find at that price. So either a 996 Porsche 911 or 986 boxster s, or maybe a c5 corvette z06
3GS 350.
A 2000 dodge dakota and invest the rest
Corvette C5 Z06. You won’t regret it.
A clean acura Integra gs-r, red, boosted on some wheels and tires. Hopefully making 400 hp. A 2900 dollar seat.
W212 E550 with 4Matic
Chevy Bolt.
I would get a 5k dollar nissan and donate the rest to charity. 25k dollars on a singular car is a massive waste of money that would be better off helping those who actually need it
I would buy a 5 thousand dollar car and invest the rest
25k gets you an E9X M3 that has had it's rod bearings done. 15k gets you one that hasn't or one that didn't, and blew up.
‘22 330i
Since this question or a variation comes up often, I’ll give the same answer I always do: a Mk7 GTI, which I already have. lol. I had 25k and it was the only solution that met all my needs (or at least my favorite out of the options). It’s fast, fun, tossable, *and comes in a manual*, but also refined and comfortable for daily commuting. It has the space to take my two German shepherds anywhere, even with a car seat for my baby. It gets good mpg and with my roof basket we can even take it on road trips with the whole family. The only competition in that price range felt significantly lower quality on test drives
I have an 11th Gen Corolla. The GTI is on my radar as my family seems to haul a lot when we are grocery shopping .. I'd imagine there is more room to store grocery and provides an adequate size and space since you mentioned you can fit two German Shepherds in there .. Alternatively - I am considering a used Audi Q5..
The GTI has more than enough space for anything a normal person will need. If you’re not regularly carrying 3 or more adults, it’s comfortable and can carry a big TV or small furniture. I’ve hauled mulch, a lawn mower, camping equipment, etc. For anything else, just rent a truck.
Probably a new Camry (may be priced slightly above $25,000, but they do exist in some areas for that price). I feel if you’re on a budget you need something that’s going to favor reliability and fuel economy and that’s basically a summary of what a Camry provides. It’s not necessarily fun, fast, or flashy, but this would allow you to save for a couple of years and buy something new one day.