Best Thrills for 25 K

2006-2008 Maxda Rx-8 

It would be nice to have a little more power from the 258 hp and 159 lb-ft of torque produced by the 1.3 liter rotary engine, but this car is still a blast. On the track, the car's well-weighted steering, crisp 6 speed manual transmission, slotted brake rotors, and well balanced chassis make it a dream to drive. On the road, the car is disguised as a hungry track car by its compliant and suspension, making it a sensible every day car. Oh, and I also should add that it has two rear seats for the kids. "zoom zoom."

2009 Nissan 370-Z

This car is the first full revision of the 350 Z that was introduced in 2003. Let me tell you, I never thought the 350 could have been improved, but my dream has come true. The 3.7 liter engine has more than enough power (332 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque) to propel the car from a standstill to 60 mph in 5 seconds, but like the Mazda, the engine is not the car's shining point. The sports suspension, steering, and brakes are all top notch, meaning this car will destroy any track. I also shouldn't forget about the 6 speed manual. With the optional sports level trim, the manual transmission has a feature called the "synchro-rev match." This feature takes out the need for heel-toe shifting as it automatically matches revs on downshifts. Purists hate this feature, but it performs accurate downshifts 100 percent of the time-something that not even the most accomplished racer can do. I'm cheating a little here, because this car comes in at around 30 K, but with the ability to outperform a Porsche Cayman that is twice as expensive, this car is a bargain. It may not be the most forgiving to live with everyday, but I assure you, everyday will be a blast. 

1999-2005(6) BMW M3

Let me start off and say that this is my favorite used car on the market. Not only is this one of the most beautiful cars BMW has ever made, but with 333 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque, this car boasts performance numbers that more contemporary sports cars even have trouble keeping up with---This car is just so much more than the numbers. This car offers a feel and predictability that is unsurpassed by any other car. Sitting in the simple but stylish interior and holding the thick, leather M steering wheel, you feel as if you are one with the car. The car goes where and when you want it to go, where with other cars, you feel as if your input is first processed by hundreds of computers before a calculated output is achieved. The 99-02 models can be had at a great bargain for under $20K, but I would go for a more expensive, low mileage 05 model. Either way you go, this is a LEGENDARY car without a legendary price tag. The M3 is the "ultimate driving machine."

2003-2004 Audi S4

In my mind, this car is quite inferior to the M3 mentioned above. What this car lacks in performance and feel to the M3, it gains in practicality. This sedan is much easier to live with every day than the harsh, loud M3. Don't take this car lightly, though. Under the hood this car as a 4.2 liter v8 (two more cylinders than the m3-more is better) that puts out 339 hp and 302 lb-ft of torque. Audi's Quattro all wheel drive system keeps this power under control and gives the driver confidence to attack any corner with speed. I love Audi's subdued styling, too. Despite some badging, tweaks to the bumpers and sideskirts, small rear deck spoiler, and the brushed aluminum side mirror housings, this car does not show off its performance capabilities. It is the sports car for the more mature driver. It is a wolf in sheep's clothing and should not be taken lightly. 

Conclusion:

I am in love with all of these cars, but the M3 has a special place in my heart. For the money, it offers so much in terms of performance and intuitive handling characteristics. It not the fastest, best handling car on the road now, since its competitors have improved over time, but it embodies automotive passion. The car just feels right. This feeling is the holy grail of the sports car industry. There is no formula for it, and it is virtually impossible to achieve. With the e46 (1999-2006) m3, BMW has achieved the impossible. 

Please comment if you wish to add any more cars to the list.