128i v RX-8 v Mini Cooper JCW

Two Sheds · 05-21-2009, 06:56 PM

My lease is up in a couple of months and I'm returning the car and in the market for another car and I've narrowed it down to three totally different cars. I'll most likely be buying and at this stage intend to keep it for at least 6 years.

1. 128i coupe (with sport package at least)
2. Mazda RX-8 GT
3. Mini Cooper John Cooper Works

The only practical requirement is it has to fit me + 2 kids (current ages 20 months and -4 months) and stroller and gets bonus points if it can still fit a second adult. I've test driven all cars and at the moment the 128i is an outside choice (but the most practical in terms of size) due to it being quite similar to the 3 and I fancy a change.

Has anyone here had experience of any of the above? I know there are a couple of ex RX-8 owners on here somewhere.

mtla4 · 05-21-2009, 07:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Two Sheds

1. 128i coupe (with sport package at least)
2. Mazda RX-8 GT
3. Mini Cooper John Cooper Works

The only practical requirement is it has to fit me + 2 kids (current ages 20 months and -4 months) and stroller and gets bonus points if it can still fit a second adult. .

Go with an other E90. 2 Door plus 2 kids forget about it.

just4kickz · 05-21-2009, 08:19 PM

minicooper!

the rx8... lol by far the worst ever. i couldn't fit in that car when it first came out, and i still can't fit in it now.

Two Sheds · 05-21-2009, 10:41 PM

I'm not getting another 3, I've had one for 3 years and want something different. I've grown a bit bored with it. It is a superb car and for me I think that is maybe part of the problem. All vehicles I've had in the past have either been woefully underpowered (like a mid to late 70's VW Polo - think around 40hp new and this was at least 15 years old) or incredibly peaky (Honda CBR400RR motor bike- powerband was around 11000 - 14500 RPM).

The 330 has pretty smooth power all the way through the range and if it's run hard you are already well breaking the speed limit in 3rd gear. With the second kid on the way I've decided leasing is not the way to go and that I should purchase a car and keep it for at least 6 years to save some money. To do that I want to buy a more involving car than my current one. After driving the 1 series (which I think is the most refined and some would say the best of the three) I feel it is quite similar to what I have now.

As for size in the back I think with 2 kids all 3 (and maybe even the e92) they are the same. It will have 2 car seats strapped in the back so as long as they fit with the kids in them I don't see to much reason to have more leg room for a 2 year old. The only issue may be while the younger kid is rear facing the passenger seat may be pretty close to the dash for comfort for an adult passenger.

I wouldn't be doing long trips with the kids, there is the wifes car for that. It would mainly be picking up and/or dropping them off at day care (after my wife heads back to work so both may be forward facing by that time) and odd trips to the mall etc at weekends with just me when my wife is off doing something else.

I do see the advantage of having a 4 door for getting the kids in and out of car seats, especially when young and not being in a very co-operative mood, but I may be prepared to forgo that to get a more interesting drive.

As I see it at the moment:
128i - the most refined of the three, and by far the largest and most normal size of trunk. It is probably the most practical of the three. It is also the most similar to my current ride and hence in 3rd place at the moment.

RX-8 - Yes I know it has rubbish fuel economy (probably 2l/100km worse than my current car) which will cost be about $10 to $20 a week extra in fuel. It does however have the 2 suicide doors which will greatly assist in getting kids in and out and it has a reasonable (but odd shaped) trunk. It is also probably the best handling of the cars, oh and according to the R3 model I have a fat ass (more on that later). Currently in 2nd place maybe.

Mini JCW - This car is a hoot to drive. About 210bhp through the front wheels make this an interesting car trying to get the power down, but that just adds to the fun. It has quick steering, plenty of power and is even fuel efficient (well compared to what else I'm looking at). The trunk is tiny though and I really don't like the styling of the clubman so that is out. This currently has a slender lead, but I keep flip flopping between this and the RX-8.

So I test drive the RX-8 R3 (a sportier special edition version) and they have recaro seats in them. At first they are comfy and super huggy, but after a while the bolsters on the bottom of seat are digging into my upper legs/lower ass and just aren't comfy for more than 20 minutes so I'll most likely be getting the GT version of this if I do. Other than the seat I fit in the car just fine, although I am a pretty average size (about 5 ft 10 in) and I fit in the back of all these cars better than I did in the Genesis Coupe I test drove.

I'm also wondering if both BMW and Mazda have been caught out by either the market or just bad predictions. For Mazda this R3 version is approx $4k cheaper than the GT and it seems like the dealers round here only have the R3 version in stock. For Mini the dealer I went to seemed to have around 10 JCW's in stock which seems a bit much for the sporty super end of the scale and there is currently a special on the JCW to lease one which I can't see happening with say the M3 (unless they are the last few before a brand new model comes out).

Garduna · 05-22-2009, 01:14 AM

I'd recommend a 128i cuz I got one myself and out of the 3, it's got the most space. You did mention part of the final choice is due to you having 2 kids.

Besides those choices, I'd also recommend a Honda Accord coupe (if you really still want a more sporty feel). Grab the v6 engine one.

I notice that you don't seem to mind the car being a coupe, sedan or hatch so I'll also recommend the A3 audi as well. for sure get quattro 2.0 or 3.2.

bigslick82 · 05-22-2009, 01:19 AM

You can find huge discounts on the rx-8 right now. Huge fun and a blast to drive, but despite the fact it's a smooth engine, it needs to be revved to move. It's not fast but it's quick if that makes sense. You will have to get used to V6 Camrys having their way with you at the stoplights, but it is a very fun car to drive especially on open back roads. The handling is so good stock, but the aftermarket makes it feel like it's on rails. Plus, it's pretty practical for your kids. If you're concerned about the resale value, it's awful compared to the mini and possibly the 128i. Long term issues mainly concern burning oil (check out the rx-8 forums too).

Compared to the other cars you listed, I can't compare to the Mini. I've driven the cooper s once and didn't think too much of it. If it's between the rx-8 and the 128i, well you can't go wrong either way. The rx-8 is more of a sports car, and the 128i is more of a sports coupe. Good luck to you.

Heinzftw · 05-22-2009, 05:12 AM

JCW hands down!!

ptack · 05-22-2009, 06:37 AM

I hate to say it, but you really need 4 doors if you plan on lugging 2 kids around.
If you're dead-set though (and can't stretch it to a 135i) then try a Clubman S. It's also got the suicide door to better access the rear.

Two Sheds · 05-22-2009, 07:07 AM

I did look briefly at the A3, but I would want quattro and would end up with the 2.0, but that is not available in manual which I would prefer, although from reviews I have heard the auto is way better than the BMW's (which has put me off autos).

I did also look at the clubman, but I just can't get myself to like the styling, but the single suicide door would be useful. I'll be taking my current child and wife to test the cars in the next couple of weeks so I'll get an idea of how good/bad it is to get a child in and out of each and I guess I will just have to see if I can live with it.

Burt Reynolds · 05-22-2009, 07:31 AM

Out of what you mentioned- Mini.

Others- new/used VW R32 (the new one), G35 Sedan/Coupe, WRX (STI), EV0 X.

These cars are all pretty much in the price range and have a different formula for how they achieve value.

My best advice- drive as many as you can (repeatedly if necessary). A clear winner will emerge and then you won't give a shit what we think.

gonzo · 05-22-2009, 09:13 AM

If they have so many JCW's I would ask if you could do a borrowed vehicle agreement. If they allow them that is. Take the Mini for the weekend and put it to real world tests with the kids and such.

Remember the Mini will give you the same free services as BMW too.

JCW's hit the ground here and are gone w/i a week. It will be my next DD when the MCS lease is up.

lib · 05-22-2009, 10:41 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Burt Reynolds

Out of what you mentioned- Mini.

Others- new/used VW R32 (the new one), G35 Sedan/Coupe, WRX (STI), EV0 X.

The g35 coupe is surprisingly impractical. Have had to stuff a mountain bike into the trunk a few times and luggage & snowboards another I can easily say there's more usable space in a 1-series. It's probably not the right car for a family of 4 to use regularly (though, none of these are).

If you do choose the 128i you may want to consider limiting yourself to the manual seats. The motor that moves the front seats to allow access to the rear is SLOW and will drive you insane if you have to use it several times each day.

BMWFanatic2008 · 05-22-2009, 11:18 AM

Can you stretch your budget a little to get into 135?

Artmasterx · 05-22-2009, 02:43 PM

Check out the Mazdaspeed3. It is lots of fun, bigger than a Mini, more practical than anything in your list, and very affordable. It was my second choice to the 128i.

imported_mega · 05-22-2009, 03:44 PM

seeing you already have an e90, the 128 is basically the same thing with a different look

i would go with the cooper, it's quite a departure from your current car, and it's not an awful rx8

EVO_S4 · 05-22-2009, 04:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mtla4

2 Door plus 2 kids forget about it.

+1 especially the 1

ptack · 05-22-2009, 05:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Two Sheds

I did look briefly at the A3, but I would want quattro and would end up with the 2.0, but that is not available in manual which I would prefer, although from reviews I have heard the auto is way better than the BMW's (which has put me off autos).

I did also look at the clubman, but I just can't get myself to like the styling, but the single suicide door would be useful. I'll be taking my current child and wife to test the cars in the next couple of weeks so I'll get an idea of how good/bad it is to get a child in and out of each and I guess I will just have to see if I can live with it.

The A3 is the most practical option for you bar none. It's a great sporty car than can haul stuff. Be sure to test drive one. The biggest issue I have with the A3 is that they are discontinuing the 3.0 which I think is a lot smoother than the 2.0 turbo. After driving a 3.0 and a 128i back to back, I was surprised at how relatively similar they were. If it weren't for the 135i it would have been a very tough choice, but for you I think it's more obvious.

Berduderunner · 05-22-2009, 05:37 PM

If you will mod the cars... Definatly 128i with 6sp Man., Sports package... then add a KW coiloverkit w. lighter rims...

Thats ur hot little daily driver w. autoX capabilities

Two Sheds · 05-22-2009, 10:56 PM

Thanks for the opinions and other car recommendations. I'm still quite keen on either the mini jcw or the rx-8. I do want a change away from the sports sedan/coupe car which most of the alternatives (A3, 1 series, Mazda 3, subaru wrx, mitsu ralliart) fit into.

I know they are not the most practical of cars and I will have some issues with them. As I said before my only practical requirements is that I can get both kids plus a stroller into it and doing some research even the mini can fulfil that. My wife has a more practical car so any family trips etc will be done in that.

I was edging towards the jcw, but I just found a mazda dealer with a couple of new (as in not been registered on the road) 2007 RX-8's which are going for about the same price as used models from that year (around 25% off sticker) so that is tempting.

I'm going in complete with kid tomorrow to test drive them and check out how they are to get kids in and out of.

shipill · 05-23-2009, 12:12 AM

E92 325

ptack · 05-23-2009, 08:20 AM

If you're choosing between the Rx8 and the Cooper, I would go with the Cooper hands down. The Rx8 feels sporty, but the engine's gas guzzling weakling - imho.

gonzo · 05-23-2009, 08:26 AM

I saw one of these on the road yesterday and it caught my eye. A metallic blue one. First one I have ever seen on the street. The review I read said it is very roomy and functional. Not slow either. I think a loaded out model tops out around 35K. I have never owned a Volvo but understand they are built like tanks. Wifey may like that it's a Volvo.....

SPECIFICATIONS C30 T5 R

Layout: Front engine / Front-wheel drive
Engine: 2.5 liter, turbocharged inline 5
Power (SAE): 227 hp @ 5000 rpm
Torque: 236 lb-ft @ 1500 - 5000 rpm
Gearbox: 5-speed automatic
Curb Weight: 3135 lbs.
0-60 mph: 6.2 sec.
1/4 mile: 14.8 @ 97 mph
Top Speed: 146 mph
Mileage: 19 city / 28 highway
Base Price: $25,950

Competitors: Volkswagen GTI, MINI Cooper S, Mazdaspeed3

05-21-2009, 06:56 PM	#1
Two Sheds First Lieutenant 11 Rep 358 Posts Drives: Mini Cooper JCW Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: Toronto iTrader: (1)	128i v RX-8 v Mini Cooper JCW My lease is up in a couple of months and I'm returning the car and in the market for another car and I've narrowed it down to three totally different cars. I'll most likely be buying and at this stage intend to keep it for at least 6 years. 1. 128i coupe (with sport package at least) 2. Mazda RX-8 GT 3. Mini Cooper John Cooper Works The only practical requirement is it has to fit me + 2 kids (current ages 20 months and -4 months) and stroller and gets bonus points if it can still fit a second adult. I've test driven all cars and at the moment the 128i is an outside choice (but the most practical in terms of size) due to it being quite similar to the 3 and I fancy a change. Has anyone here had experience of any of the above? I know there are a couple of ex RX-8 owners on here somewhere.
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05-21-2009, 08:19 PM	#3
just4kickz boku no namae ha... 352 Rep 11,023 Posts Drives: 2006 BS 330i Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: S. Bay Area, CA + Newark, NJ + ChiCity + True Blue iTrader: (11) Garage List 2006 E90 330i [0.00]	minicooper! the rx8... lol by far the worst ever. i couldn't fit in that car when it first came out, and i still can't fit in it now. __________________ looking for a PreLCI Black Sapphire e90 front bumper without license plate holes "Akimbo shotguns. Broken wrists anyone? And don't give me that 'it's just a game' bull**. Where the are my akimbo interventions then?! One scope on each eye mother**er!!"
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05-21-2009, 10:41 PM	#4
Two Sheds First Lieutenant 11 Rep 358 Posts Drives: Mini Cooper JCW Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: Toronto iTrader: (1)	I'm not getting another 3, I've had one for 3 years and want something different. I've grown a bit bored with it. It is a superb car and for me I think that is maybe part of the problem. All vehicles I've had in the past have either been woefully underpowered (like a mid to late 70's VW Polo - think around 40hp new and this was at least 15 years old) or incredibly peaky (Honda CBR400RR motor bike- powerband was around 11000 - 14500 RPM). The 330 has pretty smooth power all the way through the range and if it's run hard you are already well breaking the speed limit in 3rd gear. With the second kid on the way I've decided leasing is not the way to go and that I should purchase a car and keep it for at least 6 years to save some money. To do that I want to buy a more involving car than my current one. After driving the 1 series (which I think is the most refined and some would say the best of the three) I feel it is quite similar to what I have now. As for size in the back I think with 2 kids all 3 (and maybe even the e92) they are the same. It will have 2 car seats strapped in the back so as long as they fit with the kids in them I don't see to much reason to have more leg room for a 2 year old. The only issue may be while the younger kid is rear facing the passenger seat may be pretty close to the dash for comfort for an adult passenger. I wouldn't be doing long trips with the kids, there is the wifes car for that. It would mainly be picking up and/or dropping them off at day care (after my wife heads back to work so both may be forward facing by that time) and odd trips to the mall etc at weekends with just me when my wife is off doing something else. I do see the advantage of having a 4 door for getting the kids in and out of car seats, especially when young and not being in a very co-operative mood, but I may be prepared to forgo that to get a more interesting drive. As I see it at the moment: 128i - the most refined of the three, and by far the largest and most normal size of trunk. It is probably the most practical of the three. It is also the most similar to my current ride and hence in 3rd place at the moment. RX-8 - Yes I know it has rubbish fuel economy (probably 2l/100km worse than my current car) which will cost be about $10 to $20 a week extra in fuel. It does however have the 2 suicide doors which will greatly assist in getting kids in and out and it has a reasonable (but odd shaped) trunk. It is also probably the best handling of the cars, oh and according to the R3 model I have a fat ass (more on that later). Currently in 2nd place maybe. Mini JCW - This car is a hoot to drive. About 210bhp through the front wheels make this an interesting car trying to get the power down, but that just adds to the fun. It has quick steering, plenty of power and is even fuel efficient (well compared to what else I'm looking at). The trunk is tiny though and I really don't like the styling of the clubman so that is out. This currently has a slender lead, but I keep flip flopping between this and the RX-8. So I test drive the RX-8 R3 (a sportier special edition version) and they have recaro seats in them. At first they are comfy and super huggy, but after a while the bolsters on the bottom of seat are digging into my upper legs/lower ass and just aren't comfy for more than 20 minutes so I'll most likely be getting the GT version of this if I do. Other than the seat I fit in the car just fine, although I am a pretty average size (about 5 ft 10 in) and I fit in the back of all these cars better than I did in the Genesis Coupe I test drove. I'm also wondering if both BMW and Mazda have been caught out by either the market or just bad predictions. For Mazda this R3 version is approx $4k cheaper than the GT and it seems like the dealers round here only have the R3 version in stock. For Mini the dealer I went to seemed to have around 10 JCW's in stock which seems a bit much for the sporty super end of the scale and there is currently a special on the JCW to lease one which I can't see happening with say the M3 (unless they are the last few before a brand new model comes out).
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05-22-2009, 01:14 AM	#5
Garduna Brigadier General 168 Rep 4,013 Posts Drives: Sedona 1er\|Yellow S3\|NardoTTRS Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: Toronto iTrader: (5)	I'd recommend a 128i cuz I got one myself and out of the 3, it's got the most space. You did mention part of the final choice is due to you having 2 kids. Besides those choices, I'd also recommend a Honda Accord coupe (if you really still want a more sporty feel). Grab the v6 engine one. I notice that you don't seem to mind the car being a coupe, sedan or hatch so I'll also recommend the A3 audi as well. for sure get quattro 2.0 or 3.2.
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05-22-2009, 01:19 AM	#6
bigslick82 Second Lieutenant 66 Rep 209 Posts Drives: - Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: - iTrader: (0)	You can find huge discounts on the rx-8 right now. Huge fun and a blast to drive, but despite the fact it's a smooth engine, it needs to be revved to move. It's not fast but it's quick if that makes sense. You will have to get used to V6 Camrys having their way with you at the stoplights, but it is a very fun car to drive especially on open back roads. The handling is so good stock, but the aftermarket makes it feel like it's on rails. Plus, it's pretty practical for your kids. If you're concerned about the resale value, it's awful compared to the mini and possibly the 128i. Long term issues mainly concern burning oil (check out the rx-8 forums too). Compared to the other cars you listed, I can't compare to the Mini. I've driven the cooper s once and didn't think too much of it. If it's between the rx-8 and the 128i, well you can't go wrong either way. The rx-8 is more of a sports car, and the 128i is more of a sports coupe. Good luck to you.
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05-22-2009, 06:37 AM	#8
ptack Brigadier General 313 Rep 4,484 Posts Drives: 135i Join Date: May 2008 Location: NJ iTrader: (0) Garage List 2008 135i [6.50]	I hate to say it, but you really need 4 doors if you plan on lugging 2 kids around. If you're dead-set though (and can't stretch it to a 135i) then try a Clubman S. It's also got the suicide door to better access the rear. __________________ 135i, SGM, Coral, Sport Package, Auto, Premium Hifi, USB/ipod, Apex EC-7s, PPK Stage II
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05-22-2009, 07:07 AM	#9
Two Sheds First Lieutenant 11 Rep 358 Posts Drives: Mini Cooper JCW Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: Toronto iTrader: (1)	I did look briefly at the A3, but I would want quattro and would end up with the 2.0, but that is not available in manual which I would prefer, although from reviews I have heard the auto is way better than the BMW's (which has put me off autos). I did also look at the clubman, but I just can't get myself to like the styling, but the single suicide door would be useful. I'll be taking my current child and wife to test the cars in the next couple of weeks so I'll get an idea of how good/bad it is to get a child in and out of each and I guess I will just have to see if I can live with it.
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05-22-2009, 07:31 AM	#10
Burt Reynolds Captain 62 Rep 689 Posts Drives: 2007 M Coupe Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Windy City iTrader: (0)	Out of what you mentioned- Mini. Others- new/used VW R32 (the new one), G35 Sedan/Coupe, WRX (STI), EV0 X. These cars are all pretty much in the price range and have a different formula for how they achieve value. My best advice- drive as many as you can (repeatedly if necessary). A clear winner will emerge and then you won't give a shit what we think. __________________ 2007 M Coupe w/NAV/Premium/Extended Leather, Clearbra, DICE, 4.10 BMW Motorsport Polished LSD, Active Autowerke Gen IV Headers, Supersprint Race Exhaust and X-Pipe, ESS Tuned DME, KWV3 Coilovers, Volk RE30, OEM Strut Tower Brace, Short Antenna, JL AMP, JL 10W7, Valentine V1.
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05-22-2009, 09:13 AM	#11
gonzo Lieutenant General 10361 Rep 14,250 Posts Drives: as many as possible Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: TeXXXas iTrader: (0)	If they have so many JCW's I would ask if you could do a borrowed vehicle agreement. If they allow them that is. Take the Mini for the weekend and put it to real world tests with the kids and such. Remember the Mini will give you the same free services as BMW too. JCW's hit the ground here and are gone w/i a week. It will be my next DD when the MCS lease is up.
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05-22-2009, 11:18 AM	#13
BMWFanatic2008 Major 245 Rep 1,206 Posts Drives: 2023 M3 6MT Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: Miami iTrader: (5)	Can you stretch your budget a little to get into 135?
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05-22-2009, 02:43 PM	#14
Artmasterx Captain 48 Rep 886 Posts Drives: 2007 BMW 335i Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: MA iTrader: (0) Garage List 2006 Volvo V70R [10.00] 2007 BMW 335i [10.00]	Check out the Mazdaspeed3. It is lots of fun, bigger than a Mini, more practical than anything in your list, and very affordable. It was my second choice to the 128i. __________________ Current: 2007 335i sedan Alpine White \| Sports \| Premium \| Cold \| Comfort Access FORMERLY: 128i coupe Alpine White \| Sports Package \| Black Leather
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05-22-2009, 03:44 PM	#15
imported_mega Colonel 129 Rep 2,208 Posts Drives: various bmw's Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: neverland iTrader: (0)	seeing you already have an e90, the 128 is basically the same thing with a different look i would go with the cooper, it's quite a departure from your current car, and it's not an awful rx8 __________________ You only need two tools in life - WD-40 and Duct Tape. If it doesn't move and should, use the WD-40. If it shouldn't move and does, use the duct tape. Driving e82, e72, e85, R53 Gone but not forgotten.. 1974 2002, many various 3s.
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05-22-2009, 05:37 PM	#18
Berduderunner drk one 38 Rep 797 Posts Drives: 2008 135i Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Tampa/Orlando iTrader: (0) Garage List 2008 e90 335i [0.00] 2008 135i [0.00]	If you will mod the cars... Definatly 128i with 6sp Man., Sports package... then add a KW coiloverkit w. lighter rims... Thats ur hot little daily driver w. autoX capabilities __________________ Jet Black \| Coral \| HighGlossBlack \| Steptronic \| Premium \| Sport \| Comfort \| ActiveSteering \| Navi \| HiFi \| HD \| iPod \| SAT BMS JB3 v2.0 \| BMS DCI \| Berk Tech Sport Exhaust \| UR * DPs \| CoolingMist Meth Kit w/ CMGS \| H&R OE Sport Springs \| Breyton GTS-R \| Dunlop Direzza Sport Z1 Star Specs \| GP Thunder 8000K Low Beams/Angel Eyes/Cornering Lights \| LED Interior Light Kit \| Window Tint \| Smoked Tail Lights \| Smoked License Plate Cover
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05-22-2009, 10:56 PM	#19
Two Sheds First Lieutenant 11 Rep 358 Posts Drives: Mini Cooper JCW Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: Toronto iTrader: (1)	Thanks for the opinions and other car recommendations. I'm still quite keen on either the mini jcw or the rx-8. I do want a change away from the sports sedan/coupe car which most of the alternatives (A3, 1 series, Mazda 3, subaru wrx, mitsu ralliart) fit into. I know they are not the most practical of cars and I will have some issues with them. As I said before my only practical requirements is that I can get both kids plus a stroller into it and doing some research even the mini can fulfil that. My wife has a more practical car so any family trips etc will be done in that. I was edging towards the jcw, but I just found a mazda dealer with a couple of new (as in not been registered on the road) 2007 RX-8's which are going for about the same price as used models from that year (around 25% off sticker) so that is tempting. I'm going in complete with kid tomorrow to test drive them and check out how they are to get kids in and out of.
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05-23-2009, 12:12 AM	#20
shipill Major 455 Rep 1,292 Posts Drives: F10 528 Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: East iTrader: (7)	E92 325
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05-23-2009, 08:20 AM	#21
ptack Brigadier General 313 Rep 4,484 Posts Drives: 135i Join Date: May 2008 Location: NJ iTrader: (0) Garage List 2008 135i [6.50]	If you're choosing between the Rx8 and the Cooper, I would go with the Cooper hands down. The Rx8 feels sporty, but the engine's gas guzzling weakling - imho. __________________ 135i, SGM, Coral, Sport Package, Auto, Premium Hifi, USB/ipod, Apex EC-7s, PPK Stage II
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05-23-2009, 08:26 AM	#22
gonzo Lieutenant General 10361 Rep 14,250 Posts Drives: as many as possible Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: TeXXXas iTrader: (0)	I saw one of these on the road yesterday and it caught my eye. A metallic blue one. First one I have ever seen on the street. The review I read said it is very roomy and functional. Not slow either. I think a loaded out model tops out around 35K. I have never owned a Volvo but understand they are built like tanks. Wifey may like that it's a Volvo..... SPECIFICATIONS C30 T5 R Layout: Front engine / Front-wheel drive Engine: 2.5 liter, turbocharged inline 5 Power (SAE): 227 hp @ 5000 rpm Torque: 236 lb-ft @ 1500 - 5000 rpm Gearbox: 5-speed automatic Curb Weight: 3135 lbs. 0-60 mph: 6.2 sec. 1/4 mile: 14.8 @ 97 mph Top Speed: 146 mph Mileage: 19 city / 28 highway Base Price: $25,950 Competitors: Volkswagen GTI, MINI Cooper S, Mazdaspeed3 Attached Images Last edited by gonzo; 05-23-2009 at 09:04 AM..
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