Car Talk 6: Best of times and Worst of Times

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Johnny_P
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Looking at prices of used Camrys and Accords is mind blowing. $25k for a 2021 Accord with 50k on it that was $26k new is insanity. When you can find piles of BMW 330i, Alfa Romeo Giulia, Audi A5 Sportback etc for that same price with half the miles.
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Johnny_P wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 1:32 pm Looking at prices of used Camrys and Accords is mind blowing. $25k for a 2021 Accord with 50k on it that was $26k new is insanity. When you can find piles of BMW 330i, Alfa Romeo Giulia, Audi A5 Sportback etc for that same price with half the miles.
so, the message here is, dont drive a boring car dad
Desertbreh wrote: Thu Sep 15, 2022 4:28 pm I'm happy for Brad because nobody jerks it to the Miata harder on this forum and that is the Crown Prince of Miatas.
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Johnny_P wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 1:32 pm Looking at prices of used Camrys and Accords is mind blowing. $25k for a 2021 Accord with 50k on it that was $26k new is insanity. When you can find piles of BMW 330i, Alfa Romeo Giulia, Audi A5 Sportback etc for that same price with half the miles.
Most of America can barely check the oil, let alone diagnose German car problems and fix them themselves or at least give a good indie mechanic a heads up. Therefore they believe they can simply put gas and oil in the Honda and Toyota for the next 100K miles in addition to their car payment, that is all they have been taught to do or want to do. The rest is pure terror. In the case of the Alfa, those people are likely correct. The 330i and Audi, not so much.
Detroit wrote:Buy 911s instead of diamonds.
Johnny_P wrote: Thu Feb 09, 2023 3:21 pm Earn it and burn it, Val.
max225 wrote: Mon May 01, 2023 5:35 pm Yes it's a cool car. But prepare the lube/sawdust.
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Johnny_P
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Desertbreh wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 1:51 pm
Johnny_P wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 1:32 pm Looking at prices of used Camrys and Accords is mind blowing. $25k for a 2021 Accord with 50k on it that was $26k new is insanity. When you can find piles of BMW 330i, Alfa Romeo Giulia, Audi A5 Sportback etc for that same price with half the miles.
Most of America can barely check the oil, let alone diagnose German car problems and fix them themselves or at least give a good indie mechanic a heads up. Therefore they believe they can simply put gas and oil in the Honda and Toyota for the next 100K miles in addition to their car payment, that is all they have been taught to do or want to do. The rest is pure terror. In the case of the Alfa, those people are likely correct. The 330i and Audi, not so much.
The Germans have been getting more reliable especially BMW. The Alfa is likely a bit of a basket case of odd engineering and wonky parts.

And a new Camry hybrid is like $30-40k for reasons so that’s out.
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golftdibrad1 wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 1:38 pm
Johnny_P wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 1:32 pm Looking at prices of used Camrys and Accords is mind blowing. $25k for a 2021 Accord with 50k on it that was $26k new is insanity. When you can find piles of BMW 330i, Alfa Romeo Giulia, Audi A5 Sportback etc for that same price with half the miles.
so, the message here is, dont drive a boring car dad
I don’t want a fun car I just want one that won’t be a problem.
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golftdibrad1
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Johnny_P wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 2:01 pm
golftdibrad1 wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 1:38 pm

so, the message here is, dont drive a boring car dad
I don’t want a fun car I just want one that won’t be a problem.
A basic bitch bmw 3 series is pretty solid these days my dude
Desertbreh wrote: Thu Sep 15, 2022 4:28 pm I'm happy for Brad because nobody jerks it to the Miata harder on this forum and that is the Crown Prince of Miatas.
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golftdibrad1 wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 2:03 pm
Johnny_P wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 2:01 pm

I don’t want a fun car I just want one that won’t be a problem.
A basic bitch bmw 3 series is pretty solid these days my dude
Yeah and they’re readily available at $25k in perfect condition with AWD and stuff like memory seats.
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Johnny_P wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 2:04 pm
golftdibrad1 wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 2:03 pm

A basic bitch bmw 3 series is pretty solid these days my dude
Yeah and they’re readily available at $25k in perfect condition with AWD and stuff like memory seats.
:doit: B48 is probably one of the better four poppers for sale today.
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golftdibrad1 wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 2:03 pm
Johnny_P wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 2:01 pm

I don’t want a fun car I just want one that won’t be a problem.
A basic bitch bmw 3 series is pretty solid these days my dude
Basic bitch 3 series <<<<>>>>>fun :doe:
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Johnny_P wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 1:32 pm Looking at prices of used Camrys and Accords is mind blowing. $25k for a 2021 Accord with 50k on it that was $26k new is insanity. When you can find piles of BMW 330i, Alfa Romeo Giulia, Audi A5 Sportback etc for that same price with half the miles.
I simply don't understand the used car market still... I think it's dealer to dealer transactions driving the prices up as the supply of good used cars is still WAY TOO LOW due to Mexican beer shortages from 2020-2023.

New supply is ample. I would probably just get a basic bitch prius and call it a day. It looks good, has plenty of space and isn't slow anymore. It's kind of a "cool" new car IMO.
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max225 wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 2:26 pm
Johnny_P wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 1:32 pm Looking at prices of used Camrys and Accords is mind blowing. $25k for a 2021 Accord with 50k on it that was $26k new is insanity. When you can find piles of BMW 330i, Alfa Romeo Giulia, Audi A5 Sportback etc for that same price with half the miles.
I simply don't understand the used car market still... I think it's dealer to dealer transactions driving the prices up as the supply of good used cars is still WAY TOO LOW due to Mexican beer shortages from 2020-2023.

New supply is ample. I would probably just get a basic bitch prius and call it a day. It looks good, has plenty of space and isn't slow anymore. It's kind of a "cool" new car IMO.
I'd drive one.
Detroit wrote:Buy 911s instead of diamonds.
Johnny_P wrote: Thu Feb 09, 2023 3:21 pm Earn it and burn it, Val.
max225 wrote: Mon May 01, 2023 5:35 pm Yes it's a cool car. But prepare the lube/sawdust.
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max225 wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 2:24 pm
golftdibrad1 wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 2:03 pm

A basic bitch bmw 3 series is pretty solid these days my dude
Basic bitch 3 series <<<<>>>>>fun :doe:
A well engineered RWD sedan will be infinitely better than a FWD accord.
Desertbreh wrote: Thu Sep 15, 2022 4:28 pm I'm happy for Brad because nobody jerks it to the Miata harder on this forum and that is the Crown Prince of Miatas.
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golftdibrad1 wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 2:29 pm
max225 wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 2:24 pm

Basic bitch 3 series <<<<>>>>>fun :doe:
A well engineered RWD sedan will be infinitely better than a FWD accord.
Eh... in some ways, but then carry the BMW rape palace premium 1-2 a year for servicing and parts. I can't really recommend it for someone who watches their check book.

For a FUN family thing a used Macan is also a great bet. They drive better than a 3 series IMO. If servicing costs are to be ignored.
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max225 wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 2:32 pm
golftdibrad1 wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 2:29 pm

A well engineered RWD sedan will be infinitely better than a FWD accord.
Eh... in some ways, but then carry the BMW rape palace premium 1-2 a year for servicing and parts. I can't really recommend it for someone who watches their check book.

For a FUN family thing a used Macan is also a great bet. They drive better than a 3 series IMO. If servicing costs are to be ignored.
So you're saying don't get a three series but get a Macan? Is this like some vestige of your Viper or Civic Sport dilemmia?
Detroit wrote:Buy 911s instead of diamonds.
Johnny_P wrote: Thu Feb 09, 2023 3:21 pm Earn it and burn it, Val.
max225 wrote: Mon May 01, 2023 5:35 pm Yes it's a cool car. But prepare the lube/sawdust.
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golftdibrad1 wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 2:29 pm
max225 wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 2:24 pm

Basic bitch 3 series <<<<>>>>>fun :doe:
A well engineered RWD sedan will be infinitely better than a FWD accord.
YES. JP, no reason not to consdier a low mile 330i Sport Pkg. Reliable, seppuku-free, pretty dang good gas mileage.
Detroit wrote:Buy 911s instead of diamonds.
Johnny_P wrote: Thu Feb 09, 2023 3:21 pm Earn it and burn it, Val.
max225 wrote: Mon May 01, 2023 5:35 pm Yes it's a cool car. But prepare the lube/sawdust.
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Desertbreh wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 2:40 pm
max225 wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 2:32 pm

Eh... in some ways, but then carry the BMW rape palace premium 1-2 a year for servicing and parts. I can't really recommend it for someone who watches their check book.

For a FUN family thing a used Macan is also a great bet. They drive better than a 3 series IMO. If servicing costs are to be ignored.
So you're saying don't get a three series but get a Macan? Is this like some vestige of your Viper or Civic Sport dilemmia?
Time for some of these reading glasses. I clearly stated if you decided to say FUCK servicing costs I'd get a Macan, because they are an amazing value used for a "family" car used. They come with a DCT and drive GREAT. Interior space is just about slightly bigger than a 3 series and a bit easier to get into as it sits slightly higher.

I recommended a Prius for a fun"ish" new family car that doesn't break the bank. Macan if you want to play roulette.
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max225 wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 2:26 pm
Johnny_P wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 1:32 pm Looking at prices of used Camrys and Accords is mind blowing. $25k for a 2021 Accord with 50k on it that was $26k new is insanity. When you can find piles of BMW 330i, Alfa Romeo Giulia, Audi A5 Sportback etc for that same price with half the miles.
I simply don't understand the used car market still... I think it's dealer to dealer transactions driving the prices up as the supply of good used cars is still WAY TOO LOW due to Mexican beer shortages from 2020-2023.

New supply is ample. I would probably just get a basic bitch prius and call it a day. It looks good, has plenty of space and isn't slow anymore. It's kind of a "cool" new car IMO.
I like the new Prius. I like the new Camry a lot more though because the back seat is more usable. But more than I want to spend.
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max225 wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 2:44 pm
Desertbreh wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 2:40 pm

So you're saying don't get a three series but get a Macan? Is this like some vestige of your Viper or Civic Sport dilemmia?
Time for some of these reading glasses. I clearly stated if you decided to say FUCK servicing costs I'd get a Macan, because they are an amazing value used for a "family" car used. They come with a DCT and drive GREAT. Interior space is just about slightly bigger than a 3 series and a bit easier to get into as it sits slightly higher.

I recommended a Prius for a fun"ish" new family car that doesn't break the bank. Macan if you want to play roulette.
I own three pairs and have 6 pairs of foldable pocket size stashed everywhere but my ass. I disagree with your dismissal of the 330i as too expensive to maintain. I went to BMW for 3 free oil changes and that's it and I've found the cars to be pretty bulletproof.
Detroit wrote:Buy 911s instead of diamonds.
Johnny_P wrote: Thu Feb 09, 2023 3:21 pm Earn it and burn it, Val.
max225 wrote: Mon May 01, 2023 5:35 pm Yes it's a cool car. But prepare the lube/sawdust.
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max225 wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 2:32 pm
golftdibrad1 wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 2:29 pm

A well engineered RWD sedan will be infinitely better than a FWD accord.
Eh... in some ways, but then carry the BMW rape palace premium 1-2 a year for servicing and parts. I can't really recommend it for someone who watches their check book.

For a FUN family thing a used Macan is also a great bet. They drive better than a 3 series IMO. If servicing costs are to be ignored.
As far as johnnys case, macans backseat price is smaller than my corona taco inspired golf. Though base model does come with a veyron killer (aka 2.0t tsi) + porsche quality it can certainly beat a fighter jet
Nephew of a :plac: a few first gen immigrant on DFD, resident turk, and ex nazi egg lover now driving a middle class mom mobile.
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Desertbreh wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 2:46 pm
max225 wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 2:44 pm

Time for some of these reading glasses. I clearly stated if you decided to say FUCK servicing costs I'd get a Macan, because they are an amazing value used for a "family" car used. They come with a DCT and drive GREAT. Interior space is just about slightly bigger than a 3 series and a bit easier to get into as it sits slightly higher.

I recommended a Prius for a fun"ish" new family car that doesn't break the bank. Macan if you want to play roulette.
I own three pairs and have 6 pairs of foldable pocket size stashed everywhere but my ass. I disagree with your dismissal of the 330i as too expensive to maintain. I went to BMW for 3 free oil changes and that's it and I've found the cars to be pretty bulletproof.
Should I upload my $5130 receipt for a Mini 30k mile service ? or the $2200 30k service for the M3 I received... Or the $2500 bill my buddy got for his X3m40i to get some brakes changed?

BMW service costs are atrocious and that's exactly they are cheap used. I am dying on this hill.
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Desertbreh wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 2:43 pm
golftdibrad1 wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 2:29 pm

A well engineered RWD sedan will be infinitely better than a FWD accord.
YES. JP, no reason not to consdier a low mile 330i Sport Pkg. Reliable, seppuku-free, pretty dang good gas mileage.
Yeah. Not a bad pick. Compared to an Accord the back seat is a lot smaller and good gas mileage is somewhat erased by the need for premium fuel which is $1 per gallon more than regular. But oh well I suppose.

It’s certainly more car, nicer, etc. But like I said fun is not necessary. I just don’t want a total shitbox. An Accord should fit the bill and have low operating cost but the used prices are bonkers on them.
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max225 wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 2:49 pm
Desertbreh wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 2:46 pm

I own three pairs and have 6 pairs of foldable pocket size stashed everywhere but my ass. I disagree with your dismissal of the 330i as too expensive to maintain. I went to BMW for 3 free oil changes and that's it and I've found the cars to be pretty bulletproof.
Should I upload my $5130 receipt for a Mini 30k mile service ? or the $2200 30k service for the M3 I received... Or the $2500 bill my buddy got for his X3m40i to get some brakes changed?

BMW service costs are atrocious and that's exactly they are cheap used. I am dying on this hill.
M3 is M3. Toss that one. I guess I just do it myself or go to cheaper mechanics than you and your friends.
Detroit wrote:Buy 911s instead of diamonds.
Johnny_P wrote: Thu Feb 09, 2023 3:21 pm Earn it and burn it, Val.
max225 wrote: Mon May 01, 2023 5:35 pm Yes it's a cool car. But prepare the lube/sawdust.
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Desertbreh wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 2:53 pm
max225 wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 2:49 pm

Should I upload my $5130 receipt for a Mini 30k mile service ? or the $2200 30k service for the M3 I received... Or the $2500 bill my buddy got for his X3m40i to get some brakes changed?

BMW service costs are atrocious and that's exactly they are cheap used. I am dying on this hill.
M3 is M3. Toss that one. I guess I just do it myself or go to cheaper mechanics that you and your friends.
I DYI... as do my friends... or take it to some shit shop... but JP doesn't wrench.
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max225 wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 2:54 pm
Desertbreh wrote: Thu May 16, 2024 2:53 pm

M3 is M3. Toss that one. I guess I just do it myself or go to cheaper mechanics that you and your friends.
I DYI... as do my friends... or take it to some shit shop... but JP doesn't wrench.
That. I have no interest in spending what little time I have on my own getting covered in liquified dinosaurs.
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Talked to the :dillerman: today and moving forward on this:

https://www.keycadillac.com/VehicleDeta ... 5775579610

Emailed them and got some additional photos and she's a real beauty.


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