Selling my C5 Z06, what to replace it with? Leaning S2000... E46 M3? other?

OUGrad05 · 08-23-2015, 10:55 AM

Hey all, I'm about to list my Corvette Z06 for sale on Autotrader. I've already put it up on Corvette Forum. I simply don't drive the car enough, my wife refuses to drive it and as a result it's time to get something that we can both enjoy and have fun with. Ultimately, the car will see some light track/autoX duty, that was my intent with the Vette I just never got around to it.

Right now I'm leaning towards an S2000, why? Because I love the drivetrain, it's light, drives fantastic, parts are cheap, tires are cheap and it's rock solid reliable and my wife would also get a lot of enjoyment out of it. Slowwww depreciation.

I would also not be opposed to an E46 M3 but do think running costs would be higher than the vette I would guess, not sure about insurance costs. The vette has been very reliable, I have replaced a light bulb and thats it other than maintenance, ie fluids, etc.

Any other thoughts or comments would be welcome.

Pics because I figured I would be asked...

Anyway...I welcome any and all thoughts.

Sephiroth · 08-23-2015, 11:04 AM

Just make sure you are ok with the sound of 4-cylinder in the S2000. With the top down it is a fun car to drive, and like you said, wife-approved.

If you are willing to put up with the S54 maintenance requirements i would look for an M-coupe. Its sharper, smaller, and doesn't have that nasty rasp when comparing to the E46M.

NickyC · 08-23-2015, 11:05 AM

Z4M Roadster. I've owned both a C5 Z06 and a C6 Z06 (along with a lot of other fun stuff), and I'm now back on my second Z4M Roadster.

It's my favorite car of all time, I cannot say enough nice things about it. I've also owned an E46 M3, and I sold it within a month of purchase. I couldn't stand it.

Z4M!!

AYEDEE · 08-23-2015, 11:08 AM

If you got steep pockets go M3 in a manual if your it willing to fork out and pay to play then go with the S2000 IMO

tony20009 · 08-23-2015, 12:17 PM

Well, I've been saving up to buy a nice "toy" car. I think you and I have different visions of what that should be, OP, but I suspect the concept is similar. I've been building a "sinking fund" to buy what strikes me as the nicest "land yachts" around, a Brooklands or vintage Corniche. I plan to buy it in time to make a spectacle of myself driving it to my youngest son's college graduation.

I suspect you want something sportier than either of the cars that appeal to me. The S2000, though a little bit "boy racer" to me, is about as close as I'd dare get to owning a "boy racer, fun car." I think the following are what I'd consider, and certainly the S2000 is among them. I think it's a fine choice for someone a bit younger than I, unless, of course, that person actually likes a more classic car.

-- Lexus coupe
-- Nissan Z car
-- Honda S2000
-- MB SL Class 'vert -- classy boulevarder, but not much of a track car unless it's AMG; removable hardtop makes it an "all year car"
-- Porsche coupe
1960s era Mustang convertible
1970s or older Cadillac convertible

The cars above are what I'd consider among moderately priced "fun" cars. Among them my preference is for the MB SL Class or maybe the Honda. My tastes lean more toward "grown up" guys' toys. Not a judgement call; just is what it is. There was a "boy racer" period in my life; I've just grown out of it and it won't come back.

Even though I'm not quite "classic" age myself, I know that I will be soon enough and as those days draw closer, I and the car will only look better and better as I drive it.

The MB versions I'd seek would be in "interesting" color combos and definitely with classic styling. The older MBs have the added plus of being from the days when MB over built/engineered their cars; the things are rock solid.

Classic Jags are quite nice too, but the upkeep costs are a crap shoot.

All the best.

NoSHAM3 · 08-23-2015, 12:41 PM

My S2000 is still to this day the most fun car I've ever driven. I kick myself for getting rid of it. It certainly isn't a fast car but get it somewhere that big power doesn't matter, like a twisty mountain road, and the car will shine brighter than most. Buy one, try it, and worse case scenario sell it for what you paid. Good luck!

OUGrad05 · 08-23-2015, 01:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by NoSHAM3

My S2000 is still to this day the most fun car I've ever driven. I kick myself for getting rid of it. It certainly isn't a fast car but get it somewhere that big power doesn't matter, like a twisty mountain road, and the car will shine brighter than most. Buy one, try it, and worse case scenario sell it for what you paid. Good luck!

I love classic cars especially of the German variety. However I couldn't track one. Wife wouldn't enjoy it either.

Yes the s2000 is a great driving car. My 335i gives me my torque and power fill of that makes sense.

black335i · 08-23-2015, 01:14 PM

335

OUGrad05 · 08-23-2015, 02:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by black335i

335

own one of those already

e92_boost · 08-23-2015, 03:41 PM

S2K gets my vote! My cousin has one that he tracks and AutoX its Supercharged and they handle like a DREAM way better than the e46 M I think.

e92_boost · 08-23-2015, 03:44 PM

Doc Oc · 08-23-2015, 04:05 PM

Why not consider a 370z? It is a fun little car. The manual is very slick and the auto is the best traditional auto I have ever used. Feels very similar to my dct although not as badass obviously

. Very reliable, handles great as long as you get the LSD package, and it'll run circles around the s2000. With intake and test pipes mine ran 110 mph traps. Looks better than the Honda too IMO.

OUGrad05 · 08-23-2015, 04:45 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Doc Oc

Why not consider a 370z? It is a fun little car. The manual is very slick and the auto is the best traditional auto I have ever used. Feels very similar to my dct although not as badass obviously

. Very reliable, handles great as long as you get the LSD package, and it'll run circles around the s2000. With intake and test pipes mine ran 110 mph traps. Looks better than the Honda too IMO.

I've thought about that...I would consider it...but the Z doesn't have the appeal the S2000 has for me, I've got power in my 335i...S2000 is one of those bucket list cars for me. It also happens to make a lot of financial sense in the "toy" car world.

jlstyle · 08-23-2015, 05:05 PM

Definately S2000.
I've had it for 4 years and it was the car I enjoyed the most regardless of the small engine. Like you said, refinement on the drive train phenomenal. You just can't stop shifting. I got Z4 3.0si and traded it in after 6 months because it was such a boring car compare to S2000. Power is definitely not there but power isn't really needed in that car. You should get it if you can find a fine AP2.

Needbmwpartzz · 08-23-2015, 06:15 PM

Heard Mazda Miata's are great little cars....never personally driven one,how about a rx-8 funky power plant but fun as heck to drive....not sure the reliability is all that great but we're talking toy cars here right.

JasonCSU · 08-24-2015, 01:07 PM

The S2000 probably has one of the best manual shifters I have ever used. The linkage provides short, quick throws making it a blast to row through the gears. Maybe also consider the new MX-5 for another lightweight roadster option.

slo_guy · 08-25-2015, 06:26 PM

I'm in the S2K camp as well. I just picked up a CR about a year ago and I love the way it drives. I know they aren't for everybody because they are a very tight fit, but it's super fun for me.

Here are a few pics:

It's currently in the shop getting a brand new suspension set up and BBK.

OUGrad05 · 08-25-2015, 07:53 PM

For some reason I can no longer view replies on my laptop...weird.

OUGrad05 · 08-25-2015, 08:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by slo_guy

I'm in the S2K camp as well. I just picked up a CR about a year ago and I love the way it drives. I know they aren't for everybody because they are a very tight fit, but it's super fun for me.

Here are a few pics:

It's currently in the shop getting a brand new suspension set up and BBK.

Awesome color!

dreamingat30fps · 08-25-2015, 08:15 PM

I'll throw in the FRS/BRZ. I owned one for about a year and it was a blast to drive. Ended up selling because I needed the $$ for some home repairs and financially it was the best choice to sell. That being said had they both worked out equally financially... it would have been a very tough choice picking between the FRS or the Z.

However now that I am back to daily driving the Z I think I would still choose to keep it over the FRS. However the lack of power in the FRS is actually a lot of fun because you can drive the piss out of it and only be going 70.

I so much as blink in the Z and I'm hitting 100.

08-23-2015, 10:55 AM	#1
OUGrad05 Captain 575 Rep 889 Posts Drives: 2023 i4 and 2022 Acura MDX Join Date: Oct 2012 Location: United States iTrader: (0)	Selling my C5 Z06, what to replace it with? Leaning S2000... E46 M3? other? Hey all, I'm about to list my Corvette Z06 for sale on Autotrader. I've already put it up on Corvette Forum. I simply don't drive the car enough, my wife refuses to drive it and as a result it's time to get something that we can both enjoy and have fun with. Ultimately, the car will see some light track/autoX duty, that was my intent with the Vette I just never got around to it. Right now I'm leaning towards an S2000, why? Because I love the drivetrain, it's light, drives fantastic, parts are cheap, tires are cheap and it's rock solid reliable and my wife would also get a lot of enjoyment out of it. Slowwww depreciation. I would also not be opposed to an E46 M3 but do think running costs would be higher than the vette I would guess, not sure about insurance costs. The vette has been very reliable, I have replaced a light bulb and thats it other than maintenance, ie fluids, etc. Any other thoughts or comments would be welcome. Pics because I figured I would be asked... Anyway...I welcome any and all thoughts.
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08-23-2015, 11:04 AM	#2
Sephiroth 4-6-8 242 Rep 990 Posts Drives: for the fun of it Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: Jax, FL iTrader: (1)	Just make sure you are ok with the sound of 4-cylinder in the S2000. With the top down it is a fun car to drive, and like you said, wife-approved. If you are willing to put up with the S54 maintenance requirements i would look for an M-coupe. Its sharper, smaller, and doesn't have that nasty rasp when comparing to the E46M. __________________ M3 E46 PY/Black S2000 AP2 GPW/Tan
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08-23-2015, 11:05 AM	#3
NickyC Lieutenant General 19262 Rep 11,194 Posts Drives: M4 CS. Former G82, x2 F82, F80 Join Date: Nov 2010 Location: Jacked out of my mind iTrader: (23)	Z4M Roadster. I've owned both a C5 Z06 and a C6 Z06 (along with a lot of other fun stuff), and I'm now back on my second Z4M Roadster. It's my favorite car of all time, I cannot say enough nice things about it. I've also owned an E46 M3, and I sold it within a month of purchase. I couldn't stand it. Z4M!!
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08-23-2015, 11:08 AM	#4
AYEDEE Captain 57 Rep 936 Posts Drives: 3 Series BMW Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: NSW iTrader: (0)	If you got steep pockets go M3 in a manual if your it willing to fork out and pay to play then go with the S2000 IMO
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08-23-2015, 12:17 PM	#5
tony20009 Major General 1073 Rep 5,660 Posts Drives: BMW 335i - Coupe Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: Washington, DC iTrader: (0)	Well, I've been saving up to buy a nice "toy" car. I think you and I have different visions of what that should be, OP, but I suspect the concept is similar. I've been building a "sinking fund" to buy what strikes me as the nicest "land yachts" around, a Brooklands or vintage Corniche. I plan to buy it in time to make a spectacle of myself driving it to my youngest son's college graduation. I suspect you want something sportier than either of the cars that appeal to me. The S2000, though a little bit "boy racer" to me, is about as close as I'd dare get to owning a "boy racer, fun car." I think the following are what I'd consider, and certainly the S2000 is among them. I think it's a fine choice for someone a bit younger than I, unless, of course, that person actually likes a more classic car. -- Lexus coupe -- Nissan Z car -- Honda S2000 -- MB SL Class 'vert -- classy boulevarder, but not much of a track car unless it's AMG; removable hardtop makes it an "all year car" -- Porsche coupe 1960s era Mustang convertible 1970s or older Cadillac convertible The cars above are what I'd consider among moderately priced "fun" cars. Among them my preference is for the MB SL Class or maybe the Honda. My tastes lean more toward "grown up" guys' toys. Not a judgement call; just is what it is. There was a "boy racer" period in my life; I've just grown out of it and it won't come back. Even though I'm not quite "classic" age myself, I know that I will be soon enough and as those days draw closer, I and the car will only look better and better as I drive it. The MB versions I'd seek would be in "interesting" color combos and definitely with classic styling. The older MBs have the added plus of being from the days when MB over built/engineered their cars; the things are rock solid. Classic Jags are quite nice too, but the upkeep costs are a crap shoot. All the best. __________________ Cheers, Tony ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ '07, e92 335i, *Sparkling Graphite, Coral Leather, Aluminum, 6-speed*
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08-23-2015, 12:41 PM	#6
NoSHAM3 First Lieutenant 72 Rep 385 Posts Drives: a gas guzzler Join Date: Jan 2015 Location: 5252 iTrader: (3)	My S2000 is still to this day the most fun car I've ever driven. I kick myself for getting rid of it. It certainly isn't a fast car but get it somewhere that big power doesn't matter, like a twisty mountain road, and the car will shine brighter than most. Buy one, try it, and worse case scenario sell it for what you paid. Good luck!
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08-23-2015, 01:14 PM	#8
black335i Captain 200 Rep 725 Posts Drives: M 4 Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: tx iTrader: (2)	335 __________________ 2008 335i- FBO 2015 M4-exterior mods, JB4 E 85 2008 Zo6- intake 2015 Honda Accord 2020 Range Rover Sport HST
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08-23-2015, 03:41 PM	#10
e92_boost Captain 226 Rep 703 Posts Drives: Smart Car Join Date: Nov 2014 Location: Kenosha Wi iTrader: (0)	S2K gets my vote! My cousin has one that he tracks and AutoX its Supercharged and they handle like a DREAM way better than the e46 M I think. __________________ ESS G1 e90 - BBS E88
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08-23-2015, 03:44 PM	#11
e92_boost Captain 226 Rep 703 Posts Drives: Smart Car Join Date: Nov 2014 Location: Kenosha Wi iTrader: (0)	Attached Images __________________ ESS G1 e90 - BBS E88
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08-23-2015, 04:05 PM	#12
Doc Oc Captain Fatbelly 1445 Rep 1,994 Posts Drives: C63 amg Join Date: May 2015 Location: Upyourbuttandtotheleft iTrader: (0)	Why not consider a 370z? It is a fun little car. The manual is very slick and the auto is the best traditional auto I have ever used. Feels very similar to my dct although not as badass obviously. Very reliable, handles great as long as you get the LSD package, and it'll run circles around the s2000. With intake and test pipes mine ran 110 mph traps. Looks better than the Honda too IMO. __________________ 2013 c63 Amg coupe p31, v7 tune, plm headers, armytrix downpipes, EflexFuel 2008 dct coupe, evolve engine/dct tune, ttp, ms intake, megan exhaust, cf ds. Sold. Last edited by Doc Oc; 08-23-2015 at 04:10 PM..
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08-23-2015, 05:05 PM	#14
jlstyle Lieutenant Colonel 362 Rep 1,762 Posts Drives: Porsche Panamera Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: USA iTrader: (0) Garage List 2014 Audi S7 [0.00] 2015 BMW X5 [0.00]	Definately S2000. I've had it for 4 years and it was the car I enjoyed the most regardless of the small engine. Like you said, refinement on the drive train phenomenal. You just can't stop shifting. I got Z4 3.0si and traded it in after 6 months because it was such a boring car compare to S2000. Power is definitely not there but power isn't really needed in that car. You should get it if you can find a fine AP2.
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08-23-2015, 06:15 PM	#15
Needbmwpartzz Colonel 855 Rep 2,792 Posts Drives: 2009 bmw 328i x-drive Join Date: Feb 2014 Location: Kitchener/Waterloo iTrader: (0)	Heard Mazda Miata's are great little cars....never personally driven one,how about a rx-8 funky power plant but fun as heck to drive....not sure the reliability is all that great but we're talking toy cars here right.
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08-24-2015, 01:07 PM	#16
JasonCSU Colonel 705 Rep 2,548 Posts Drives: '08 135i, '88 325is Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: Denver, CO iTrader: (0) Garage List 1988 BMW 325is [0.00] 2008 BMW 135i [0.00]	The S2000 probably has one of the best manual shifters I have ever used. The linkage provides short, quick throws making it a blast to row through the gears. Maybe also consider the new MX-5 for another lightweight roadster option. __________________ Delivered in Munich, broken in on the Nurburgring.
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08-25-2015, 06:26 PM	#17
slo_guy Lieutenant 31 Rep 406 Posts Drives: a car Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Los Angeles, Ca iTrader: (3)	I'm in the S2K camp as well. I just picked up a CR about a year ago and I love the way it drives. I know they aren't for everybody because they are a very tight fit, but it's super fun for me. Here are a few pics: It's currently in the shop getting a brand new suspension set up and BBK.
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08-25-2015, 07:53 PM	#18
OUGrad05 Captain 575 Rep 889 Posts Drives: 2023 i4 and 2022 Acura MDX Join Date: Oct 2012 Location: United States iTrader: (0)	For some reason I can no longer view replies on my laptop...weird. __________________ 2023 i4 eDrive40 2022 Acura MDX
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08-25-2015, 08:15 PM	#20
dreamingat30fps Colonel 5966 Rep 2,024 Posts Drives: Miata, Cayenne, Model 3, F350 Join Date: Jan 2010 Location: South Florida & NC iTrader: (1)	I'll throw in the FRS/BRZ. I owned one for about a year and it was a blast to drive. Ended up selling because I needed the $$ for some home repairs and financially it was the best choice to sell. That being said had they both worked out equally financially... it would have been a very tough choice picking between the FRS or the Z. However now that I am back to daily driving the Z I think I would still choose to keep it over the FRS. However the lack of power in the FRS is actually a lot of fun because you can drive the piss out of it and only be going 70. I so much as blink in the Z and I'm hitting 100.
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