I currently drive 2004 VW Jetta 1.8T. I've owned it for 3+ years and modified it slightly during this time to keep it fun. With the cat-back exhaust and performance software it is pushing 210hp+, but it is NOT all about the horsepower and torque. I am only averaging 21mpg (80% freeway, 20% city) with my driving style.
Something is telling me that I need to get something economical and fun at the same time. I want my next car to be subcompact, 100 to 140hp, manual transmission, combined mileage 30mpg+ with hard driving.
So I test-drove:
- 2011 Mazda 2 manual
- 2008 Mini Cooper manual
- Honda Fit
I like the Mazda 2 and also Mini Cooper.
Mini Cooper already comes with very tight suspension so I might just need to get some lightweight black wheels and maybe lower it a bit and it will be fun. If I get Mazda 2, I would modify the following: shocks, springs, front strut bar, rear sway bar, exhaust, lightweight wheels with some good tires.
However, I hear some bad stories about Mazda 2 having poor build quality and weird noises coming from the main components of suspension such as arms and bushings and what not. That concerns me because I would hate to deal with stuff on a brand new car. I already have VW stuff to deal with
Your input is appreciated.
Thanks,
Freestyle.
Something is telling me that I need to get something economical and fun at the same time. I want my next car to be subcompact, 100 to 140hp, manual transmission, combined mileage 30mpg+ with hard driving.
So I test-drove:
- 2011 Mazda 2 manual
- 2008 Mini Cooper manual
- Honda Fit
I like the Mazda 2 and also Mini Cooper.
Mini Cooper already comes with very tight suspension so I might just need to get some lightweight black wheels and maybe lower it a bit and it will be fun. If I get Mazda 2, I would modify the following: shocks, springs, front strut bar, rear sway bar, exhaust, lightweight wheels with some good tires.
However, I hear some bad stories about Mazda 2 having poor build quality and weird noises coming from the main components of suspension such as arms and bushings and what not. That concerns me because I would hate to deal with stuff on a brand new car. I already have VW stuff to deal with
Your input is appreciated.
Thanks,
Freestyle.