I actually enjoy shopping for a new (to me) car. Creating spreadsheets comparing horsepower, torque, MPG and available options is exciting. The problem, sometimes, is finding vehicles to put on those spreadsheets.
Currently, I’m considering a more high-performance sedan. Something along the lines of a Cadillac CTS-V. However, the field is relatively small based on price, miles or both. I have found a few interesting options, though.
Cadillac CTS-V
Basically a Corvette in sedan (or wagon!) form. Depending on which year you choose you get a naturally aspirated V8 or one with a supercharger slapped on it.
This car is probably at the top of my list. The only downside is that the ’09s and newer are still commanding strong prices on the used market. I could go older, but then I’m looking at only manual transmission cars (not totally terrible) that aren’t a huge step up from my C5. The wagon is a bucket-list car for me.
Pontiac G8 GXP
Another great product from Holden, er, Pontiac! Seriously, the G8 GXP is like a newer, better GTO (which I’ll get to later). The only problem is they made like five of them and resale values can sometimes be pretty out of whack.
I could go for a G8 GT, but I would much prefer the LS3 versus the L76. Plus, I like the styling of the GXP more.
Chevrolet SS
Ah Chevrolet. You just love slapping that SS badging on things, don’t you? Another fine Holden vehicle that made it here, it was equipped with the LS3 and lived a short life.
Again, production numbers were relatively low and resale values remain high. I actually like the styling of the GXP slightly more as the SS looks sort of like the mid-grade rental car they give you after you wait in line forever even though you have a reservation.
Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG
You’re probably wondering what the heck this thing is doing here based on the previous cars. Like Doug DeMuro, I just like it. The E55 AMG offers gobs of power and torque and a smooth ride. The downside? Maintenance costs. If people think the “Corvette Tax” is bad, the “AMG Tax” could put a shop owner’s kids through college and buy them homes.
Surprisingly, this might be #2 on my list right now. From some early searches it seems like there are a few out there with decent miles for a decent price. Though, a 13-year-old Mercedes does make my wallet nervous.
What’s Missing
The cars above are my preferred choices, but there are certainly other options out there. Let’s go over a couple that are missing!
BMW M
As someone who’s always been a fan of the M cars and loved the older 840 and 850 vehicles, the M5 should probably be here. Yet, for some reason I just don’t have a huge desire to own one. I love looking at them and listening to them, but right now that’s about it. Weird, I know.
Subaru WRX STi
I may slide this up to the possibles list at some point. After owning a Volvo 740 Turbo for a few years I fell in love with turbo cars. The transmissions concern me a bit and I would sort of rather have a hatch, but this one has serious potential.
Volvo S60
Speaking of Volvo. I’m sure the S60 is a fine car, but I will always be a fan of the old “turbo bricks.” A black Volvo 850R? Yes, please. Maybe I should just buy one of those, or find one with an LS-swap and call it a day.
Non-Sedans
Pontiac GTO
Big enough and heavy enough to be considered a sedan! Seriously, these are fun cars. Interior is much improved over the typical GM fare, plus you get rear-wheel drive and a solid V8. The trouble is finding a used one in nice shape that isn’t listed for more than it’s likely worth.
Chevrolet Camaro
The price for a fifth-gen Camaro has steadily come down over the years. Sort of like the G8 in that the LS3 is only available in the manual cars. The differences aren’t that big, but I would prefer the LS3 over the L99.
Ford Mustang
As a lifelong Chevy fan, it pains me to admit that the Coyote-powered Mustangs are in some ways better than the Camaro. I think the Mustang looks slightly better, and that 5.0 is pretty stout. My biggest gripe? They are everywhere!
Dodge Challenger
I do really like these cars. I’ve ridden in them, driven them and they’re nice! I may take a hard look at them. My main problem is similar to that of the Mustang. I see these, in varying trim levels, everywhere.
Chevrolet Trailblazer SS
Not a car at all! An LS2-powered SUV? It hearkens back to the Typhoon and Syclone that captured my attention as a child. Again, it’s difficult to find ones in good shape that don’t have inflated resale values.
Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT-8
Chrysler’s version of the TBSS. Stuff a 400+ horsepower engine into an SUV, and call it a day. It’s like a modern-day 850R wagon that’s taller but more powerful and with modern conveniences.
I think that’s about it for now. There are other vehicles I could add to the list, but these are the one I go to the most when firing up AutoTrader, eBay, Craigslist, etc. Hopefully, with enough patience and research I’ll be able to find one!