the r32, although seemingly cooler, is still an overweight, crappy handling, steaming pile of golf, just like any other post-mkiii... forget that car.

Budget fun = srt-4 ( h: ), used itr, wrx.

You might even be able to get a good-shape STi or EVO for 26k. Go older, and your options open widely

Dont bother with an ep3 unless you want to swap... but a rsx-s would be alright (although lacking in LSD)

 

id get a low mileage wrx and call it a day.

 

the K20A3 is not that bad. it can still put down respectable power.

 

one thread pops up about a rare tranny problem for the rsx-s and now it "apparently" has problems?

 

enjoy those whopping 15mpgs.

 

Hmm... i'll be test driving an IS300 this weekend. I might wait until the IS250 comes out. Dealerships have been very reluctant to give out any info on the 06' models.

I'd love to test drive a 97+ Prelude but that'd probably endup being a private seller instead of a dealership where they do that all the time.

 

you can get an EVO RS for 20something

 

IS250 will be way over the price range that you listed.

 

It would be a great motor in a car that weighed 600lbs less than the ep3, but alas, the ep3 is a fatty fat fat.

 

Don't mean to hash up an old thread, but came across this one surfing for some info. (& insight). I see local Mazda dealers seem like almost trying to dump 05 model RX8's off their lots. wAS even offered agreat deal under invoice. Checked out some other sites, and looks like engine reliability on the "new and improved" rotary in he 8 may not be so great, and even worst than previous gens.. something about sideport intakes and exhaust, and weak seals. Anyone have one for reference, and how would it compare to an comparable year RSX??