Car Connoisseur

With the economic downturn and everyone concerned about being environmentally friendly, there has never been a better time to buy a used vehicle. This is a daunting task, however, as there are millions of used cars out there. How do you know which one is right for you? I have assembled the following list of used cars that should be on your radar.

Listed below are average price ranges for each model. NOTE: These prices can vary depending on age and mileage.

2004-2008 Acura TSX & 2002-2006 RSX

The Acura TSX was a rebadged version of the European market Honda Accord, which is certainly not a bad thing. This sedan was sold from 2004 through 2008 with a 2.4 liter four cylinder engine mated to either a 5 speed automatic or 6 speed manual. This combination produced 205 horsepower, which was plenty to propel this small luxury sedan in most situations.

The RSX was available from 2002 through 2006, available with two different 2.0 liter four cylinder engines. The base RSX produced 160 horsepower while the more aggressive Type S model produced 200 horsepower. The Type S was available in 6 speed manual only, while the base RSX could be had with either a 5 speed manual or 5 speed automatic. The RSX and TSX are the last of a breed for Acura. These cars can link their heritage straight back to the very first Acura Integra from 1986. Compact dimensions, tight suspensions and powerful yet efficient four cylinder engines were the hallmarks of the entry level Acura range then, as was the case for these two models. Now Acura has turned into a purveyor of hideous crossovers. What has the world come to?

Price range:

TSX: $9,000 to $20,000
RSX: $7,000 to $16,000

The one to buy: TSX 6 speed manual. An intelligent and reliable alternative to your typical BMW 3 series.

2004-2006 Audi A8

Big Audis have a reputation for being also rans amongst the large luxury vehicle set. Every manufacturer strives to be as popular as the Mercedes-Benz S class but few attain that status. No matter, because less popular typically means less expensive. The second generation Audi A8 is everything you’d expect from a large German luxury saloon and then some. Lightweight aluminum construction, vast interior space and power to spare, the A8 cossets its passengers with aplomb. While you may be able to find the top of the line W12 or performance oriented S8 model on the cheap, it would be advised to restrict your search to the 4.2 liter V8 model. The 4.2 engines are less complex and, in the case of the S8, would have been treated with more care.

Price range: $15,000 to $30,000

The one to buy: A8 4.2 L. Go for the long wheelbase and play captain of industry for the day.

2001-2003 BMW 525i & 530i (E39)

The E39 5 series was one of the last great BMW sedans. Not that BMWs aren’t still great driving machines. The styling has just gone a bit haywire and has strayed from tradition. Now one of BMW’s best is well within reach of the average used car shopper. The two models worth checking out on the used market are the 525i and 530i, which have a 192 horsepower and 228 horsepower version of BMW’s superb inline six cylinder engine, respectively. Features such as navigation, rich leather and wood as well as M style body kits and wheels can make these sedans all the more tasty. The 525i was also available in wagon form, which adds a touch of practicality to your sporting experience.

Price range:

525i: $7,000 to $16,000
530i: $8,000 to $19,000

The one to buy: 525i 5 speed manual. The last of the truly great BMW executive sedans.

2002–2008 Jaguar X Type sedan/wagon

The Jaguar X Type never really caught on stateside, which is unfortunate, since it had a lot to offer. Available with a 2.5 or 3.0 liter V6 with standard all wheel drive, the X type could be optioned with a 5 speed manual up until 2005. The estate, the second only Jaguar of its kind, appeared in 2004 and soldiered on in the lineup until Jaguar pulled the X-type from the U.S. market in 2008. These small luxury cars can be had for pennies on the dollar now. For those looking for a comfortable and luxurious ride on the cheap, you can’t get much better than this. Especially if you live in the snow belt where all wheel drive is attractive.

Price range: $6,500 to $18,000

The one to buy: 3.0 Sport sedan with automatic transmission. Even though the manual transmission is a solid drive, you don’t buy a car like this to shift it yourself.

2004-2007 Lotus Elise

The lightest, best handling car in the last decade is now getting on in the years. After years of selling the larger, mid engined Esprit, Lotus finally brought over its fantastic Elise in second generation form. This car reintroduced club racers and enthusiasts to the concept of a real sports car. Powered by a 1.8 liter Toyota sourced four cylinder, owners need not worry about finicky British engineering when it comes to the drivetrain. This powertrain coupled with a curb weight of 2,000 pounds is a recipe for smiles on the road and track. Beware, however, of high insurance premiums due to the composite bodywork. Other than that, the Elise is a great proposition for those wanting something a bit more special than your run of the mill Miata.

Price range: $25,000 to $40,000

The one to buy: Standard Elise. Unless you want all out performance at the expense of any sort of comfort, stay away from the Exige.

2002-2004 Maserati Cambiocorsa Coupe/Spyder

The vehicle that heralded Maserati’s return to the U.S. market is within the reach of many motorists. I know what you’re thinking. Bargain and Maserati in the same sentence? It’s true. However, bargain is a relative term. Maserati began importing the Coupe in 2002 with the Spyder joining the lineup shortly thereafter. One can regularly find Coupes and Spyders starting around $25,000 with an average of 30,000 miles on the clock. Fine Italian coachwork, a Ferrari V8 and the irresistible soundtrack that comes along with that fine engine should be enough to steer you away from that new Infiniti G35 coupe you were thinking about.

Price range: $25,000 to $50,000

The one to buy: 2002-2004 Spyder 6 speed manual. You may pay a little extra over similar models that have the automated manual gearbox, but the joy of shifting yourself and ease of maintenance down the road will pay dividends.

2004-2007 Mazda 6 Wagon

Those in the market for a mid sized wagon have few choices these days, since manufacturers have been focusing their efforts on SUVs. In 2003, Mazda took the U.S. mid sized segment head on by introducing a sharp, sophisticated looking sedan that was amazingly available as a 5 door hatchback and a wagon, long after competitors had abandoned such body styles. While the sedan and 5 door are great cars, the wagon is in a class of its own with smart styling and the unique offering of a 5 speed manual with a V6 engine. While there are not many out there on the used market (probably because their owners love them), if you can find one, don’t hesitate. If it’s a reasonably priced wagon you seek, this is one of the few games in town. It is also one of the best.

Price range: $8,000 to $17,000

The one to buy: V6 5 speed manual all the way.

1994-1995 Mercedes E320 (W124)

The oldest car on this list could be the smartest used car buy today. The W124 Mercedes-Benz is a legendary vehicle, 24 years after its introduction. The later, facelifted versions from 1994 and 1995 are the pinnacle of the breed. Powered by the bulletproof Mercedes M124 3.2 liter inline six, the 220 horsepower mill can last for hundreds of thousands of miles with regular maintenance. This is evidenced by the fact that many are still used as taxis around the world.

Available as sedan, wagon, coupe or convertible, these were one of the last Mercedes built to point, not a price. While the sedans, coupes and wagons can be had for regular used car money, low mileage convertibles can be pricey, with some selling for over $30,000. This is a testament to how well loved these cars really are. While considered austere in comparison to contemporary luxury sedans, it can be argued that the W124 E class has all the features you need and none that you don’t. And 15 years on, the E320 still feels as fresh as new.

Price range: $3,000 - $30,000

The one to buy: Try the wagon for a taste of the Hamptons lifestyle.

2008-2009 Pontiac G8

While there are still some of these to be had new on dealer lots, the demise of Pontiac means the demise of one of GM’s finest. The G8 sedan, a rebadged version of the Australian Holden VE Commodore, lived a short life in the US due to the downward spiral of the economy. With GM in bankruptcy, the plan to eliminate Pontiac was met with cries of distress by automotive enthusiasts the world over.

While it’s a shame to see the G8 go, let’s praise it for what it was: an honest to goodness American sport sedan. Offered with a 3.6 V6 or a choice of 6.0 and 6.2 liter V8s, this rear drive beast was a refreshing change from ho-hum midsized sedans we had seen in the past from the General. Simple, muscular lines along with excellent handling characteristics and an upmarket interior had many calling the G8 a budget BMW 5 series. The critics weren’t far off. Act now, as there is still some leftover 2009 stock to be had at rock bottom holiday pricing. As they say, only the good die young.

Price range: $18,000 to $40,000

The one to buy: The 2009 G8 GXP 6 speed manual. With 415 horsepower, this is basically a four door Corvette that can run with the BMW M5s of the world.

2008 Saturn Astra

Another vehicle that was killed off too soon, the cousin to the Opel Astra deserves a second look from those in the market for a subcompact car. Built in Belgium and available as both a 3 door and 5 door hatchback, the Astra’s is motivated by a reliable and competent 1.8 liter four cylinder with 140 horsepower. Available with either a 5 speed manual or four speed automatic, the Astra will surprise potential buyers with its taut suspension and quality materials, hallmarks of typical European compacts. While the Chevrolet Cobalt is a good car, the Astra was a notch better and deserved to live longer on these shores. It goes the extra mile without being too pretentious.

Price range: $8,000 to $15,000

The one to buy: Skip the base XE model. The XR trim level, which is available in both three and five door models, is better equipped.

1997-2008 Subaru Forrester

The first and second generation Subaru Forresters have attained a cult like status among their owners. Reliable, sturdy and practical, if ever there was a case for a crossover vehicle, this is it. Powered by the infamous 2.5 liter four cylinder boxer motor, the Forrester provides miles and miles and trouble free motoring. For a little added spice, Subaru introduced the XT in 2004 which offered 224 turbocharged horsepower and an upgraded level of equipment. For those that need a bit of utility in their vehicle but don’t want or need a full blown SUV, the Forrester is the ticket.

Price range: $4,000 to $17,000

The one to buy: 2004-2007 Forrester XT.

2000-2003 Volkswagen EuroVan

Looking for a basic people mover without any SUV pretense? The EuroVan is about as unique as they come. Brought back to the US market in 2000, the EuroVan was upgraded with VW’s fantastic 2.8 liter narrow angle V6 mated exclusively to a 4 speed automatic. Couple this with vast interior space and tank-like build quality rivaled only by the Mercedes-Benz Geländewagen, the EuroVan checks all the right boxes. While they are becoming scarce on US roads, there are still plenty of good examples out there on the used market, as they were sold in the US up until 2003.

Price range: $6,000 to $13,000

The one to buy: GLS, unless you need the MV version for camping.

2003-2007 Volvo S60R/V70R

In recent years, Volvo has done a lot to boost its performance image. Short of Paul Newman stuffing Mustang V8 engines in Volvo wagons back in the 1980s and 1990s, we never saw much in the way of performance Volvos until the 1995 850 T5-R hit the scene. This brute packed a 240 horsepower turbocharged five cylinder and was quite popular in the British Touring Car race series. As an encore to this, Volvo introduced the S60R sedan and V70R wagon in 2003, this time with a turbocharged five cylinder pumping out 300 horsepower. Mated to either a 6 speed manual or five speed automatic, this car could rip off a 0-60 time in the low six second range. Volvo went a step further and added push button suspension settings as standard (comfort, sport and advanced). Inside, you will find the same comfortable, luxurious Volvo cabin with the added benefit of more deeply contoured front bucket seats.

Price range: $9,000 to $22,000

The one to buy: Try the 6 speed V70R wagon for the ultimate sleeper.

While at the local BMW dealer this past weekend, I had the urge to drive some MINI Coopers. I’ve always had a keen interest in these vehicles. My father bought one of the first MINI Coopers imported in 2002 and has had nary a problem with his car after 45,000 miles. Thus, I have been considering a MINI for quite some time now. However, I am more keen on the 2002 through 2006 generation, versus the new, updated R56 MINI Cooper and Cooper S. I decided to drive both and find out which one I fancy more.

I started off by driving a 2006 Cooper S Checkmate Edition. This was a special trim option for the Cooper S, the one I drove being Navy metallic with navy blue leather upholstery and contrasting gray checkered cloth seat inserts. Never having driven a Cooper S before, I was taken aback by how much more punch it had over the regular Cooper. The supercharger whine definitely adds to the drama, suggesting much more than the 168 horsepower that’s under the hood. Everything else felt like typical MINI fare, from the switchgear to the very BMW like gearbox and suspension setup. After driving Mercedes-Benzes for almost a decade, it was a revelation being able to bomb about in a fast, compact hatchback. This car was one of a few that has put a smile on my face lately.

Then it was time to drive the new generation Cooper S. This time I turned to a 2008 model with black on tan leather. The new MINI is noticeably bigger than it’s predecessor, which to me misses the point of what this car is about. I am also not a fan of turbocharged engines, and this new Cooper S has one. Out on the road, the turbocharged was barely perceptible, however. A little bit of hiss from the turbo while swapping cogs is all that would tip one off to knowing this was a forced induction engine. The power band was very strong, however, as expected, the four extra horsepower in this version isn’t noticeable. During a brisk second to third shift, torque steer was prevalent after getting back on the throttle, but fully controllable.

I am not a big fan of the new MINI’s interior. It seems to be a caricature of the old MINI; almost too retro for its own good. The center speedometer has increased in size and I found the heating and air conditioning controls to be much more complicated than the previous generation’s setup. Also, the tan leather contrasted with a lighter tan swath across the dashboard. There were almost too many textures and colors going on in this car for its own good.

In the end, it is the original 2002-2006 MINI Cooper S that won me over. The sonorous supercharged 1.6 liter motor and classic bulldog stance is a great combination. The new MINI Cooper just seems to be an answer to a question no one ever asked. Change for the sake of change, if you will. Everyone loved the original, so it seems rather hasty of BMW to have gone and changed it after five short years. That said, the new generation MINI is not a bad car. If you are looking for a small car with luxury features and German quality at a reasonable price, this ride is for you.

I shut the door, hit the start button, threw it in first gear and took off. Suddenly it was 1998 all over again, feeling as if I was reunited with my first car, a 1988 BMW 325is. Such is the purity of the new BMW 128i coupe. Previously, I lamented the fact that the 135i coupe was overpriced and a bit overkill. However, the 128i coupe with a six speed manual is the most perfect BMW of the entire lineup, simply because less is more. It is BMW at its finest: a non-forced induction inline six cylinder engine, manual gearbox, and electronic gadgets that are kept to a minimum.

The first thing I noticed about the 128i is how little things changed. Over twenty years have passed between the time my 325is coupe rolled off the assembly line to now. And yet, the 128i clearly retains the DNA of the E30 3 series in every little thing it does. The clutch and gearbox are typically BMW smooth, while the 3.0 liter six cylinder engine sounds remarkably similar in tone to the 2.5 liter six cylinder in my old 325is. On the road, the 128i composes itself well, as any fine German sports coupe or saloon should. Suspension is compliant but firm, acceleration is brisk but not overstated and it handles well in corners when pushed. While not the fastest BMW, this coupe does everything well and then some.

The interior is typical BMW. The 128i I drove had a black leatherette interior, which, as is typical with such a color, is a bit stark. All the controls are laid out in a logical fashion and the placement of the gearshift and pedals are excellent. This is definitely a drivers’ car. Cabin room for two passengers is superb, however, the backseats are best used for short trips for anyone average size on up. The rear seat does have a pass through and trunk capacity is rather spacious for a car of this size. Entry price for the 128i is $30,225 with destination charges. With a few options you should be able to steer under the $35,000 mark.

The 128i is a breath of fresh air at a time when cars are bloated, full of gadgets and have engines hopped up on steroids. This car is indeed the spiritual successor to the iconic BMW 2002 of yesteryear. I am sure wherever my old 325is is (pictured below), it is smiling that BMW has once again made good on its promise of “The Ultimate Driving Machine.”

Those that know me know I have never been a fan of sport utility vehicles. I was surprised then, after driving the new Mercedes-Benz GLK 350, that this little SUV was a car I would be proud enough to call my own.

Witnessing the GLK in the flesh for the first time, I was surprised at how compact it was. There’s nothing excessive about the proportions of this vehicle. Yet, inside, there is plenty of room for 5 adults and their gear. Climbing on board, I was greeted with a familiar Mercedes-Benz interior. All the controls were laid out in a logical manner and everything fell to hand nicely. The dashboard was a nice interpretation of the typical C class theme, however, a navigation screen is integrated into the top of the center stack, which is very legible and includes a camera mode on the screen when in reverse gear.

Taking to the road, I could have mistaken that I was in a C350 sedan. The size of this vehicle is excellent for around town maneuvers and the 7 speed automatic is smooth and unobtrusive. The 3.5 liter V6 has plenty of power (268 horsepower) and the steering, suspension and brakes all felt like they would on a Mercedes-Benz sedan. It’s an amazing feat, this little truck. How Mercedes-Benz was able to incorporate typical sport sedan feel into a small SUV baffles me. The one thing which might not be to everyone’s liking is the fact that you do sit rather low for an SUV, but I wasn’t bothered by this at all. It made you feel that you were in a regular car instead of a truck. The GLK can also be ordered with or without 4matic all wheel drive. In my opinion, I wouldn’t opt for the 4matic, as it adds to the weight of the vehicle, increases gas consumption slightly and with electronic stability and traction control, you really don’t need all wheel drive, unless you live in a harsh climate.

At $33,900, the GLK 350 is a bargain. Since Mercedes-Benz is not importing their C class wagon as of yet, the GLK is as close to a small people mover we are going to get from the folks at the three pointed star. If all SUVs drove this well and were this well rounded, this vehicle segment might make more sense.

It came as a surprise today to see a slew of alternative fuel vehicles outside my offices at L’Enfant Plaza in Southwest, Washington D.C. It turns out the Society of Automotive Engineers was holding their Government/Industry Meeting at the L’Enfant Plaza Hotel hosted by Volkswagen of America, which recently relocated their headquarters to nearby Herndon, Virginia.

Upon examining their wares, a representative approached me and asked if I would like to take their new Jetta Clean Diesel TDI sedan for a spin. How could I resist? I always enjoy driving other people’s cars. The first thing one will note is how un-Diesel like the TDI engine is on start up. Forget everything you assume about Diesels. This is a new day. The car is so hushed on idle that it is quieter than most gasoline engines I’ve experienced as of late.

The jewel of this vehicle is of course the engine. A 2.0 liter direct injection turbocharged four cylinder engine with 16 valves mated to a 6 speed dual clutch automatic transmission (a manual will be available) motivates this compact sedan with little turbo lag and a definite sense of urgency in the mid range. It also doesn’t sound like a Diesel, but more like a robust gasoline four cylinder engine.

With 140 horsepower on tap and an impressive 235 lb ft of torque, you are not wanting for power. While I only was able to get up to speeds of around 45 mph tops, I had the sense this vehicle would be a competent highway cruiser. Emissions are also handily controlled with devices such as an NOx Storage Catalyst, a Diesel Particulate Filter and a Diesel Oxidation Catalyst.

The rest of the Jetta TDI Clean Diesel is standard Volkswagen fare, which means decent build quality and materials inside and out. For those who have owned German vehicles before, all the controls will seem second nature. I did notice, however, that the driver’s seat was hard for me to adjust in a comfortable position. The cushion, no matter how far down I would adjust it, seemed to be up too high, forcing my legs into the bottom of the steering wheel. Given that this was a pre production vehicle and had been used in fleets, there could have very well been a malfunction with the adjustment which I did not have time to investigate.

On the road, the Jetta feels a bit lighter than the fourth generation GTI I used to own. The German feel is still there, but as is the case with a lot of new vehicles today, you can’t help but things are watered down just a tad to appeal to the lowest common denominator. The outstanding part of this vehicle, however, is the fuel economy. Anticipated mileage is in the mid 40 mpg range in the city and mid 50 mpg range on the highway. While driving around Capitol Hill and the surrounding neighborhoods, the fuel economy meter was hovering in the low 40mpg range, so these figures seem quite realistic.

While Hybrid technology has its strong suits, one can’t help but think that simple, proven Diesel technology is the way forward to a cleaner, more energy conscious planet. And consider this…in ten years time you won’t have to figure out how to recycle those pesky batteries.