The most satisfying car in the world for the least money.

I (of course) nominate the Saab C900 and especially the SPG. There are just layers of goodness there. Parts cars cost less than scrap. Does everything well from hauling huge stuff to shredding the tail of the dragon. All for pennies.

It appears there is a loyal (if narrow) following for some SAABs. And I have a few good driving experiences. Is it time for a GRM in-depth article?

David

Two whole posts and no Miata mentioned?

Whatever car is 500$ or less.

In reply to mndsm:

I bought an old Ford Escort wagon with the 1.9 and 5-speed for $50 once. It was owned by a NAPA manager and had over 400k on it; the thing was made of rust but mechanically sound. I loved that car to death for the time I had it! It was nothing special in a lot of ways, but knowing I had a decent set of wheels that was remotely fun to drive for a whole $50 was hugely satisfying. I later sold it for $500 too!

I was at an Autox over the weekend and there was a 1969 Saab 96 competing.
As he parked next to me I said to him, "As a Miata owner, I've got to tell you, every time I go to another autox, there you have it again, the events are being over run by Saab 96's." [/heavy on the sarcasm]

1991-1994 Sentra SE-R

BMW E30 with 2.5 M20 engine. It's one of those cars I've tried to sell but just can't bring myself to do it. The smiles it creates while carving corners at the track are simply too wide.

Also, unlike a Saab the engine faces the correct direction and the proper wheels are driven.

DWNSHFT wrote: It appears there is a loyal (if narrow) following for some SAABs. And I have a few good driving experiences. Is it time for a GRM in-depth article? David

GRM did a C900 buyer's guide a few years ago. It was good.

I'll second the C900 as ultimate for this thread. I've had them that were award-winners at shows, done a couple of track days, autocrossed, helped people move furniture, unstoppable rusty winter cars, driven them to Deal's Gap twice, took one on my honeymoon, and the best: one of mine made GRM . Not only has it become my favorite car, it really is good for just about anything you could want to do with it.

Saabs are sooooo cheap right now. It is hard to beat. I am really thinking about replacing my Civic Si with one (or an FC RX7, '90s MR2, Z3 or Jag XJ6).

The car you already own!

Kia Spectra5!

SlickDizzy wrote: In reply to mndsm: I bought an old Ford Escort wagon with the 1.9 and 5-speed for $50 once. It was owned by a NAPA manager and had over 400k on it; the thing was made of rust but mechanically sound. I loved that car to death for the time I had it! It was nothing special in a lot of ways, but knowing I had a decent set of wheels that was remotely fun to drive for a whole $50 was hugely satisfying. I later sold it for $500 too!

I had one too! It was a slush box car, and the torque converter failed. I still miss that car. I love me some beaters. There's an certain zen in not knowing if you're going to make it and just not caring.

A rental car with insurance and deductible waver

I can get one for a few bucks a day. They are faster, tougher, and can drift better than any other car. As a huge bonus they can carry and tow more than any pickup.

Powar wrote: I'll second the C900 as penultimate for this thread.

So what is your number one choice if the Saab is your second choice?

T.J. wrote:

Powar wrote: I'll second the C900 as penultimate for this thread.

So what is your number one choice if the Saab is your second choice?

That's what I was going to ask.

I can't stand Saabs. Maybe because I'd vote Volvo 700/900 series turbos Correct pair of wheels is driven.

Hard to argue against anything E30/E36, Miata, RWD Volvo, old 240SX, FC RX-7...

900........ P.O.S.

99, with a swapped 2.0 twincam, and 5 speed... DONE!

but SAAB as the most satisfying car for little money....

In reply to Raze:

Miata Na or Nb.

T.J. wrote:

Powar wrote: I'll second the C900 as penultimate for this thread.

So what is your number one choice if the Saab is your second choice?

Look at you correcting my autocorrect. How badly did I have to destroy that?

oldeskewltoy wrote: 900........ P.O.S. 99, with a swapped 2.0 twincam, and 5 speed... DONE! but SAAB as the most satisfying car for little money....

That's... helpful.

We all have our opinions. What's your choice?

I purchased my 92 miata with hardtop for $1500. It has been autocrossing and rally crossing very successfully for about a year and a half with minimal maintenance and upgrades. IMO, it fits this criteria well. Total investment still under $2k. It might be at the challenge again this year.

Bugeye WRX with a tune. Find one that is not beat (No its not easy but it can be done).

Mine was under a $1000. I passed it on to a new owner who was willing to deal with the rust.

There is nothing more satisfying to own then a big really ugly reliable regular cab short bed pickup truck.

I have to nominate the Fiesta ST. It takes some serious money and HP to beat it in a Best Driver's Car comparison.

(An ST about to lap a slower car)