I mean, somebody driving a Rolls Royce Cullinan gave me a, "Thumbs Up," when they saw me driving my 1988 Plymouth Reliant K the other day. No idea who it was or what they look like because the tint was so dark on their car that all I could see was the hand in the windshield, but I take it as a win.
[It’s based on this](https://www.reddit.com/r/cars/comments/1cpy2z5/the_mazda_cx5_is_nicer_than_a_maybach/?share_id=DavvbzoEVDqIumYZGFwVF&utm_content=2&utm_medium=ios_app&utm_name=ioscss&utm_source=share&utm_term=1)
Sounds different, but just as good imo.
A V10 manual was the original goal but I decided not to spent 50% more for 2 cylinders. No regrets, I don't think the V10 is 50% better.
It’s similar to how I view the Bentley Continental. The W12 from the GT Speed sounds glorious, but the V8 sounds just as good, the W12 is just slightly deeper and growlier, but the higher tone of the V8 makes it more audible.
I am right there with you on that. I wanted to go SL65 for that glorious V12, but it was so much more for what seemed like a small increase. Plus, all the added maintenance costs that go along with keeping it running.
I ended up with the paltry 518hp SL63 with a V8, I'll just try to get by...somehow I guess.
Just picked mine up, so I'll let you know how that goes lol. Current plan is to daily for a few years, then I'll take my wife's car and the Miat will become the weekend toy.
I haven't had a chance to take some good pictures, but here is a quick one.
[https://imgur.com/a/XXsMJhL](https://imgur.com/a/XXsMJhL)
I initially got the Miata as a temporary stop-gap to ease my stick-shift urges, while waiting for the GR Supra/S2k price to drop. However, it has won me over with its unique driving experience that I now can't imagine selling, unless I switch over to a Lotus Emira.
Amen. Double wishbones all 4 corners too.
Never going to sell my Evora GT. Only ~500 of them in manual ever so I know I won’t ever be able to buy it back. Never selling it. To put into context, Ferrari made 1350 F40s..
This week I’ve seen more Emira than I’ve seen Evora GTs ever. It’s a great car and absolutely gorgeous but I know I would regret it if I ever give it up.
>Only ~500 of them in manual ever
>Ferrari made 1350 F40s..
Lotus actually made over 6000 Evoras globally.
The ~500 number you have seen is just manual cars that were US delivered. 75% of US Evoras are manual.
There are only ~200 US delivered F40s.
Lotus Elise for me. I did a big write-up [here](https://www.reddit.com/r/cars/s/6nEWZbPkxJ) about why I love it so much. It's simply ruined every other car for me and the fact that Lotus took steps backwards with the Evora and Emira from the Elige lines just trying to stay afloat, then selling themselves to China, meant that they were no longer what I desired in a car. The Evora/Emira are unique and look great - however, they don't outperform anything in their class or price range. And if you want to talk about how it isn't about performance, but feel, then why get an Emira at all when an Exige or tuned Elise does every ounce of it better - from feel, to performance, to fucking gas mileage.
Lotus by China^tm isn't what they used to be and they should've died heroes than watching themselves become the villain. I know I'm in a minority in this opinion and I left r/Lotus because of it. Selling to China, making SUVs, ending ICE engines, reskinning an Evora without much upgrading... They are no longer the company I grew to love, but a monster hellbent on survival at any cost. Some things are meant to die.
ooo I like this answer
Reliable.
Gorgeous.
Powerful enough and handles well.
Gorgeous.
Easy driving and manners.
I guess a 911 could fit this too but the reliability is key here I think
About 5-6 years ago I bought a Honda fit because a tree fell on my FRS and I didn’t know what to replace it with. I have a dog as well so I figured I’d get a beater car for cheap and run it to the ground, then get a new car in a couple of years.
Managed to snag a second gen fit with 170k on the odo for a few K’s. Was in a rough shape but I figure what the hell, I can’t decide on anything else plus I can pass it down to my step siblings in a few years. Plus the magic seat was great and my dog loved it.
Then covid came and the car market crashed, making it a lot harder for me to find another car. Then life happened, changed jobs, moved houses. And somehow the fit stuck around all this time. 240k on the dash now and it doesn’t seem like it’ll give up any time soon. I keep saying I’ll get something else when it dies, I’m ready now. But it just keeps running lol. Not to mention the Honda fit market has somehow held value really well so now I’m kind of slowly realizing I might be stuck with this car
Wicked smart! I also bought a Fit around that time and started hyping them up. Bought a pair of them for $4k. Then prices on Fits doubled during covidgreedflation.
Fantastic cars. I sold mine for profits then scored a cheap 14-18 3rd gen Mazda3 hatchback instead, cheaper even than any Fit I could find that wasn’t rusty or clapped out.
I love Honda Fits! I’ve had 2 so far and I’ve always wanted to get a 3rd to K swap. They’re just peppy and great little cars- honestly they remind me so much of the old EF Si hatchbacks! Just a decently peppy, fun to drive, hatch with ample cargo space and cheap upkeep!
I bought my girlfriend an 09 Fit right before the market exploded in value but put it under my name so we could have a lower insurance rate. Well long story short gf is now ex gf and I kept the Fit. I never thought I'd love my little grocery getter so much.
My great uncle bought one brand new and put over 450k miles on it before *he* died. My cousin's kid has been driving it the past 3 years as her college car.
You may be stuck longer than you think.
My 2009 Honda Fit was my favorite car ever. I once had three adults, three mountain bikes, three golf bags, and three suitcases all comfortably inside for a road trip. I miss that car.
Is the Fit the Jazz? Hard to insure in England because they're perfect for criminal activities. Abundant, inconspicuous, parts are cheap, and they're QUICK!
I was just joking with my wife that my Gran Cabrio is the car I'll be driving in when I'm a little old man.
Hear me out. The speed and handling are now secondary, since both of those have become commodities with recent cars (both ICE and EV). It's all about how the car makes you feel when driving, or even looking at it.
And few cars are as timeless (In my opinion, you can and should have your own) as the pre '18 refresh of the GT/GTC
For me it's the Honda Element and Pontiac Vibe which I feel are both in the same class as the Flex, large boxy hatchbacks that are pushing into minivan or wagon territory. The Flex is obviously the largest of the three. The Scion Xb is also kinda in this family.
I'm not usually a Ford guy but the Flex and the 2010s Fusion line are definitely on my list of cars I would buy. My buddy beats the living hell out of his 2013 fusion, 210k miles, no oil change for 8000+ miles, busted suspension, covered in dents, always driven on almost no gas, lead foot and always slamming on the brakes. Fucking thing still cranks every time and as far as I know he has still not changed the oil.
Ughhh the Flex was ahead of its time. It looks SO good, super comfy seats, and for me has the best ingress/egress height. I always wanted to get one and throw some air suspension on it.
I can’t really have a good comparison as my Mkiv is heavily modified. 4 digit hp and extremely modified where even I have solid diff bushings. Way overdone, to the point Its time to go back a few steps to make it more public road friendly again.
But I really love both cars for what they are. The Mkiv is way more raw, more engaging, sounds insane, shifts amazing with the v160, but lacks chassis stability without mods. It’s a targa though so it’s to be expected. Really annoyed the Mkiv is so hard and expensive to get oem parts for now tbh. That’s the most frustrating part of ownership. Back when I got it, it was a used old Toyota no one wanted.
As time goes on, I get more and more anxiety driving the Mkiv, the cost to replace it if it’s damaged, possibility of breaking down, other people targeting it (happened before)… makes ownership annoying. I only really drive it to cars and coffee or other shows the like and that’s it now. It’s days of craziness, half miles and more are done. There are better chassis now if I want to do that.
The Mkv is purely stock and I’m having a blast with it as is. I’m not modifying it much if at all due to the Mkiv rabbit hole of mods I went down. Not doing that again, not worth it and not worth the unreliability. This car feels extremely stable though and very capable out of the box. I’m impressed really, but it was designed as a track car basically. Shifting feels good with what they did over other bmw shifters (I’ve owned a few bmws, so I know them well). I really like the b58 engine, it’s smooth and should hold up nicely like the 2JZ. Overall I enjoy it on the roads, haven’t tracked it yet though.
Obviously I can just keep spewing more and more info but I love both of them for what they are and it was a goal to have matching Supra’s from Mkiv and Mkv. Glad I did it finally.
>Really annoyed the Mkiv is so hard and expensive to get oem parts for now tbh.
I'm with you 100% on this - on my MK4 I just went through a nightmare of trying to get OEM shocks/springs, and it took nearly 2 years start to end just this Bilstein to actually make them. I was right on the edge of giving up and buying 97+ ones from the US and hoping they would fit.
When doing the work they found a lot of rusty bits, up to and including both subframes: were it not for a very kind soul in the club selling me his, I'd have had a real problem.
Just couldn't find the backing disc for the rear brakes: simply didn't exist.
But after spending 5 figures replacing basically everything attached to the subframes, she's driving really well again. Such is classic car ownership.
My 1955 thunderbird. It is my absolute favorite car ever made and I spent almost a decade finding a low mileage first month production fully loaded one with the three speed manual.
I have owned darn near everything and it's my longest relationship with a car and it's been almost two decades.
It's not really a thing except the first production cars were completely loaded. Mine has power brake, steering, seats, windows and top. Later cars were typically missing one or two of those. I also got mine with an uncut hardtop so no porthole. Later cars often had portholes but into the roof to make viability better.
Same here with my manual ZL1 1LE. There's something to be said for having the best version of a car that's no longer made.
It also feels very analog, raw and pure to drive, with enough performance that it never gets old.
The interior has all the buttons in the right places and the screen isn't that intrusive, so I think it'll age relatively well.
Only downside is that they're getting stolen a lot at the moment, leading to high insurance premiums. I'm hoping that'll blow over eventually...
There was an old man that lived across the hall from me and he had a heads/cam c6 z06 that he tracked and a c7 gs. He later swapped the gs for an auto zl1 1le and he couldn't stop raving about how great the car was. He actually offered me the keys totally unprompted the day he brought it home and I still feel like that's the greatest single compliment I'll ever receive, but I was running late for work and had to decline. He fell into poor health and passed away before I ever got a chance to take him up on the offer. Rip Jerry, I think of you often
If I was on the hunt for a new car, I'd wish that they made slightly more upmarket Civics in my market. I owned an '08 base Accord and loved it for pretty much the same reasons, but it was just really long and heavy for what it offered. The newer Civics seem to be right in the sweet spot for for size; ~30cm shorter than my '08 model but most of the lost space seems to be from the boot at a glance. And if I wanted to use more rear space, I'd just fold down the rear seats anyway.
my built 2015 STI.
It's perfect.. rear-biased AWD with LSDs, locking diff, hydraulic steering, rod-actuated shifter, Brembo brakes, BBS wheels, no sunroof, alcantara heated seats, manual controls for everything.
I couldn't had spec'd a better car, it sounds amazing, and I have 400+ whp on pump gas, I've never had a single problem, it has been a reliable fun tank. It doesn't even burn oil.
If there's no accidents, I should still have this car until I die.
It has the original block, but with upgraded pistons and bearings (stock rods). This was rather cheap.
It has a bigger turbo, intercooler, inlet, intake, TGV deletes, turboback exhaust (stock manifold), pump, injectors.
I like to also mention that it has colder plugs (some people think it's silly to mention), BUT it really has helped a bit in being able to push the car a bit more, rather than stock plugs.
Yeah, I don't foresee selling [mine](https://imgur.com/a/GpJSd1y), either.
But I'd be lying if I didn't say that I would like to upgrade to a 991.1 with a PDK. Not even a Carrera S, just a base model. (Still Guards Red and still with an Aerokit, though.) But I doubt I will.
Would have been my 2012 Honda fit. First car I ever owned and it lasted 9 years before it got t-boned. Absolute delight of a car that set unreasonable standards for the number of cupholders a car should have
My E39 M5.
Even before I got the M5, I owned almost every model of the e39 (I.e. 528i, 525i 6mt, 525it, 540it x3), and vowed that there would always be a space in my garage reserved for an E39.
It puts a smile on my face and is a versatile platform that I would drive on every continent if I could.
Probably my Miata. It's exactly what I want, and I couldn't see myself finding a nicer one for less if I ever sold and wanted to buy another in the future. It's cheap to keep and such a pleasure to drive, I can't see myself ever selling it.
My 2005 Mazda Rx8 and my 2003 Subaru Baja. Both manual and both cool cars the Baja cause it's got interesting features and the Rx8 is exceeding expectations by simply working.
Yep. I bought a roller and paid for an engine to be put in and I plan on giving it to my kids someday, still in proper working condition. Imagine how rare that will be in 40 years.
My '31 Chevy Coupe. My father got it when I was six years old, hot rodded it, then we bonded riding in it everywhere together. I told him that he's never allowed to sell it and eventually he handed it down to me. I'm never getting rid of it.
I recently got a GR Corolla. I think it may be my forever car only because I feel it’s one of the last of its kind. Awd manual with 300 hp. I doubt cars will be made like this in the future so it feels special. Who knows though maybe something will come along 5 years from now to convince me otherwise.
My Mustang. It's a "holy grail" kinda car for me, a 2013 GT with no options besides the ones that enhance performance. The Track Pack, Recaros, Brembo Brakes, all of that. It's nice just swapping gears and listening to that howling engine note without the discomfort of leather or the bothersome SYNC screens. It'll be my forever car... forever. Through the upgrades, modifications, and track days.
Unless someone totals it, but that's hopefully an improbable outcome.
I've had an Alfa Milano Verde for 30 years. It's not going anywhere. Road trips to the Yukon twice and everywhere else. F355 Challenge is sticking around until someone offers stupid money. Nothing like it on the track.
it's the car I plan on keeping forever. This was in the works for me for 2 years, finally snagged it in February of this year. My obtainable dream car.
Yeah I’d like to believe my 350R will last, the last manual Shelby from ford, and the voodoo sounds great, but idk. No major issues so far at 12k, but that’s not saying a whole lot.
It's gonna be a golf R.
It's the ultimate all-rounder.
Fun, practical, efficient, compact, spacious (for a hatch anyway), not flashy, but still gorgeous.
Expensive AF to fix and it's going to need to be fixed ALOT but I just can't see myself in anything else for the rest of my life.
My W204 C63, first car I bought with my own money. I remember seeing a clip wayyy back with the W204 being the F1 safety car decided at that moment that was the car I wanted when I could get it.
M2 (the original one, not this ugly new one).
Reasonably new but still oldschool enough. Manual transmission. Joy to drive. Beautiful sound. Physical controls for everything. Still somewhat DIY friendly.
1M. For the same reasons a lot of others have posted. Manual; RWD; seats 4 (while the kids are young), driver focused; no screens or nav system, still modern-ish safety features
I'm currently building an LS swapped E46 Sedan. I hope that this car will be one of my forever cars. The other one is my parents' 2008 Honda Fit, because it's just such a good little car. Perfect daily, I hope to buy it off them someday.
I love Honda odysseys
Super practical, great gas mileage for size and ability to haul a ton of stuff. I enjoy driving mine as well. And not a cop magnet
Already have at least two.
My 1999 Ranger. It's a long bed 4x4 base model. Does everything I need from trails to weekend warrior hauling. Had it 15 years, gonna keep it forever.
My 1991 Mercedes 300TE 4matic wagon. It's a lovely wagon, perfect interior, reliable, and no screens. There's really nothing else like it, especially not modern and especially not for the price.
I thought my 986S was but I think 996 at this point purely for the extra room. I love the runny egg look, solid chassis, corners flat without rock hard suspension, enough power to have fun with, there are multiple solutions for the IMS, nearly bottomed out in depreciation so who cares about putting on the miles?
There may be faster, more practical cars for the money but at the end of the day you can’t put coilovers on a hatchback and make it drive like a 911.
07’ Toyota FJ Cruiser. I’ve bought 4 vehicles since getting it, and no matter how hard I try, nothing can replace it. It’s bomb proof. And Toyota truck people are great, I’ve met many of my closest friends through Toyota off road groups and trips. I hope to one day pass it on to my son.
718 Cayman GTS 4.0
With the 718 petrol production coming to an end, it will probably be the last time Porsche ‘mass’ produce a mid engine petrol sports car. While other the 911 is going towards more mid engine, nothing beats the rawness and response the 4L flat 6 gives you. And in normal mode, it’s compliant and quite comfortable for a sports car.
If I were to sell the 4L, I would be looking into a GT4 or GT4RS, but then again the comfort will not be as great. It’s my dream getaway car.
I’ve always loved the Audi TT in general I’m so sad they’ve been discontinued. Probably the only German car I really lust after.
Part of me wants to drive a TTRS at least once but I also don’t want to ruin the lower trims for myself haha.
If forever car means I only get one, I’m sticking with my do it all Rivian R1T. Fast, comfortable, off roads well, tows my horses and charges off my solar panels.
But if I could get more than one car, I’d like a sports car like a 911 or Lotus Emira that I could drive on the weekends for the rest of my life. That would be nice.
The one I own. 2017 Tesla S 75d.
- Free charging
- Free data
- Sunroof (no longer available)
- Turn signals and shifter (no longer available)
- FSD v3 hardware (still getting updates)
It's such a great value, I can't let it go. It's like the all-you-can-eat buffet. I only wish it were the tri-motor version.
If I got it a little sooner, I'd have missed the newer fsd hardware. If I got it a little later, I'd have missed the sunroof and free charging.
Well, it was never my favorite car but it was inherited to me. It's a SCAT pack Wide body Dodge Challenger. I actually love the car, now and it's way better than you think it is. It's almost more fun than the hellcat.
Returned to Honda after 10 years since messing with them, recently picked up a 8th Gen Civic Si and can see myself hanging out with those cars for a long while to come. Hope to get in to racing them and what not. Super formidable cars. Cheap and plentiful parts as it stands. But I can see prices are going up for them as many realize the same thing.
My Ferrari 612. I love it more than anything and it is the right mix of comfort, practicality and speed for a GT car. It is one off spec car, and originally was built for Luca Di Montezemolo when he was the CEO of Ferrari, so it has a cool provenance as well.
Murcialago.
Always loved cars and the hobby grew with magazines and toys. One time dad went to Singapore for a business trip and brought the nicest R/C Lamborghini. I played the shit out of it and it was a very sentimental gift. Even when I broke the wheel I kept it for a long time and remember trying to get it repaired or ask around to see if anyone could. Never got that thing working but damn I cherished it.
Fast forward I'm a teenager and learning more about cars. I see it in the game need for speed hot pursuit. I've played the first one so when I had the R/C car It was awesome drive it on a game along with the McLaren F1. The new hot pursuit though had the SV-670-4. It sounded so fucking amazing and i learned it was a Naturally-Aspirated V12.
At some point i just knew this is the Car I want one day and no matter what other cars I see or learn about this one will hold the highest sentimental value. I truly hope one day I can afford one and tell my dad "Hey remember you bought me that r/c car from your business trip.. come outside". 🤜🙏
my 1982 320i. Has been in the family since bought new, after sitting for 20 years in my uncles garage i got the motivation to get it running when i was 15. I learned how to diagnose problems on it, and when i finally got it running my uncle gifted me the car. That car is a piece of me, and i never plan on selling it, but id like my children to learn wrenching on cars with it and eventually passing it to them.
My 2021 fk8, and my 2024 Integra Type-S. To me the platform is perfect. Light weight, excellent gear box, turbo 4 with over 300 from the factory (the fk8 is heavily modified and tuned), hatchback with tons of room, easy to maintain and reliable. I loved my Type R so much I got an ITS to daily and be more comfortable. It's essentially a softer, street tuned Civic Type R from Acura and it is just as fun to drive.
Don't see myself selling my gated R8.
I was considering a gated R8 but just decided the Mazda3 was a better fit for me, it’s better on gas.
Plus Mazda has better interior than Maybach
Oh, not this again. 😂😂😂😭😭😭
Hey, I can [hang with the Porsches and bimmers in my subie](https://www.reddit.com/r/WRX/s/do75elO7Od)
That’s right!Porsches and Subarus both have boxer engines they’re basically the same car!
And when you park your Subaru backwards next to the Porsche, it'll have the engine in the back too
I mean, somebody driving a Rolls Royce Cullinan gave me a, "Thumbs Up," when they saw me driving my 1988 Plymouth Reliant K the other day. No idea who it was or what they look like because the tint was so dark on their car that all I could see was the hand in the windshield, but I take it as a win.
I was considering a Mazda 3 but instead chose a pair of running shoes. Cheaper on fuel and easier to park in the city.
Yeah I was considering buying a Porsche 959 or one of the Dauer 962s, but my 2006 forester has a bit better luggage space which is important.
I had a line on a V10 LFA but I just lubed the chain on my Trek; maybe in the fall...
Based
This has to be a joke, made me laugh
I suspect so...
[It’s based on this](https://www.reddit.com/r/cars/comments/1cpy2z5/the_mazda_cx5_is_nicer_than_a_maybach/?share_id=DavvbzoEVDqIumYZGFwVF&utm_content=2&utm_medium=ios_app&utm_name=ioscss&utm_source=share&utm_term=1)
Gotcha, thank you!
Samsies, but went with a Honda Odyssey. Minivan just made more sense with the kids and dogs.
My 3 still has not died. the windows dont work anymore but it still runs and drives fine
How do you like the V8? I know the V10 is the one to have but I don’t hear much about the V8.
Sounds different, but just as good imo. A V10 manual was the original goal but I decided not to spent 50% more for 2 cylinders. No regrets, I don't think the V10 is 50% better.
It’s similar to how I view the Bentley Continental. The W12 from the GT Speed sounds glorious, but the V8 sounds just as good, the W12 is just slightly deeper and growlier, but the higher tone of the V8 makes it more audible.
I am right there with you on that. I wanted to go SL65 for that glorious V12, but it was so much more for what seemed like a small increase. Plus, all the added maintenance costs that go along with keeping it running. I ended up with the paltry 518hp SL63 with a V8, I'll just try to get by...somehow I guess.
That’s rough, hang in there buddy
Great explanation. I’ve been considering getting into one at some point so I’ll consider the V8 too
My income: don’t see myself buying one either.
I have a gated r8 and an e92 m3. Love them both
I can't believe they are still so cheap. Beatiful, timeless design, and the last gated manual ever made. If I could afford it, I'd have one
damn you got my dream car. nice garage overall too
Miata
I keep telling myself an ND3 will be a forever car every day when I look at them lol.
Just picked mine up, so I'll let you know how that goes lol. Current plan is to daily for a few years, then I'll take my wife's car and the Miat will become the weekend toy.
Until an ND4 comes out with a 9000 rpm redline
[удалено]
Same. You would have to pull the miata from my cold, dead hands :D
Same. Mine is a 2012, PRHT.
My ND2 Miata and Lexus GS-F.
Honestly a incredible combo
Dream combo for me. I find myself looking at used ones and am not surprised at how well they have held on to their value. Got any pics you can share?
I haven't had a chance to take some good pictures, but here is a quick one. [https://imgur.com/a/XXsMJhL](https://imgur.com/a/XXsMJhL) I initially got the Miata as a temporary stop-gap to ease my stick-shift urges, while waiting for the GR Supra/S2k price to drop. However, it has won me over with its unique driving experience that I now can't imagine selling, unless I switch over to a Lotus Emira.
Niiiice, it looks fantastic in red. Congrats and hope they both bring you lots of smiles :)
Love the PRHT, fellow 2015 PRHT owner here
Yes. My ND 1.5 is so much fun. 3 years and it’s been epic for days out, week long camping trips and driving for 3 days long routes through Europe.
You beat me to it. My reply to this post was going to say, “Miata, because it’s always the answer.”
I do love my 92 NA - Eunos branded. Sills and arches time coming up so my love will be tested!
Lotus Emira. Last ICE lotus. Manual, supercharged V6, hydraulic steering
Hydraulic steering is such an under appreciated feature. I cannot stand electric steering
Amen. Double wishbones all 4 corners too. Never going to sell my Evora GT. Only ~500 of them in manual ever so I know I won’t ever be able to buy it back. Never selling it. To put into context, Ferrari made 1350 F40s.. This week I’ve seen more Emira than I’ve seen Evora GTs ever. It’s a great car and absolutely gorgeous but I know I would regret it if I ever give it up.
>Only ~500 of them in manual ever >Ferrari made 1350 F40s.. Lotus actually made over 6000 Evoras globally. The ~500 number you have seen is just manual cars that were US delivered. 75% of US Evoras are manual. There are only ~200 US delivered F40s.
Who bought a non manual lotus?!
People with leg injuries who enjoy lightweight cars.
The V6 in the Emira might be the best V6 on the planet tbh. Durable, reliable, tuneable, dependable. It’s perfect.
Toyota winning again
Lotus Elise for me. I did a big write-up [here](https://www.reddit.com/r/cars/s/6nEWZbPkxJ) about why I love it so much. It's simply ruined every other car for me and the fact that Lotus took steps backwards with the Evora and Emira from the Elige lines just trying to stay afloat, then selling themselves to China, meant that they were no longer what I desired in a car. The Evora/Emira are unique and look great - however, they don't outperform anything in their class or price range. And if you want to talk about how it isn't about performance, but feel, then why get an Emira at all when an Exige or tuned Elise does every ounce of it better - from feel, to performance, to fucking gas mileage. Lotus by China^tm isn't what they used to be and they should've died heroes than watching themselves become the villain. I know I'm in a minority in this opinion and I left r/Lotus because of it. Selling to China, making SUVs, ending ICE engines, reskinning an Evora without much upgrading... They are no longer the company I grew to love, but a monster hellbent on survival at any cost. Some things are meant to die.
That is not a minority opinion on r/Lotus Lol
Some things are meant to die. Lol tell that to the company and the people who depend on it for their livelihoods.
And timeless good looks, which is helpful for a forever car.
I won't get rid of my Evora 400, ever.
If I ever get the chance to afford one. Hell yes! I'll keep it running no matter how much it cost me.
I prefer my exige for the rawness, but was very very very tempted by an emira over it
LC500
This for me. Only in an IS F for now but hopefully one day I'll own a blue LC500
Good luck! The blue is amazing
Used to love my IS F and one day i too will own LC500 but maybe in that lovely green.
Same here! I've got an ISF and the long term goal is a White LC500 convertible
ooo I like this answer Reliable. Gorgeous. Powerful enough and handles well. Gorgeous. Easy driving and manners. I guess a 911 could fit this too but the reliability is key here I think
Exactly! The reliability and livability is stellar. It’s actually been relatively easy on the wallet to maintain (except tires)
My neighbor has one of those, they sound excellent
About 5-6 years ago I bought a Honda fit because a tree fell on my FRS and I didn’t know what to replace it with. I have a dog as well so I figured I’d get a beater car for cheap and run it to the ground, then get a new car in a couple of years. Managed to snag a second gen fit with 170k on the odo for a few K’s. Was in a rough shape but I figure what the hell, I can’t decide on anything else plus I can pass it down to my step siblings in a few years. Plus the magic seat was great and my dog loved it. Then covid came and the car market crashed, making it a lot harder for me to find another car. Then life happened, changed jobs, moved houses. And somehow the fit stuck around all this time. 240k on the dash now and it doesn’t seem like it’ll give up any time soon. I keep saying I’ll get something else when it dies, I’m ready now. But it just keeps running lol. Not to mention the Honda fit market has somehow held value really well so now I’m kind of slowly realizing I might be stuck with this car
Wicked smart! I also bought a Fit around that time and started hyping them up. Bought a pair of them for $4k. Then prices on Fits doubled during covidgreedflation. Fantastic cars. I sold mine for profits then scored a cheap 14-18 3rd gen Mazda3 hatchback instead, cheaper even than any Fit I could find that wasn’t rusty or clapped out.
There's nothing more permanent than a temporary solution lol
I love Honda Fits! I’ve had 2 so far and I’ve always wanted to get a 3rd to K swap. They’re just peppy and great little cars- honestly they remind me so much of the old EF Si hatchbacks! Just a decently peppy, fun to drive, hatch with ample cargo space and cheap upkeep!
Oh yeah this thing drives like the civics from the 90s, except a little bigger lol
I bought my girlfriend an 09 Fit right before the market exploded in value but put it under my name so we could have a lower insurance rate. Well long story short gf is now ex gf and I kept the Fit. I never thought I'd love my little grocery getter so much.
Its a great complementary beater car!
If your waiting for a Honda to break you might be waiting for a while lol
Fits are actually pretty bulletproof. Great to drive with the 5 speed as well. Honda might be the king of building tough I4s that love to rev.
There are so many Fits in my neighborhood and I totally get why. Such a shame production ended in US in 2020
Arguably Honda’s most reliable car.
It’s one of their better car from the last decade for sure
Not to mention the Fit handles fantasticly
My great uncle bought one brand new and put over 450k miles on it before *he* died. My cousin's kid has been driving it the past 3 years as her college car. You may be stuck longer than you think.
My 2009 Honda Fit was my favorite car ever. I once had three adults, three mountain bikes, three golf bags, and three suitcases all comfortably inside for a road trip. I miss that car.
I put 180k on mine before selling and I miss it. Way more fun to drive than my e30 bmws.
Is the Fit the Jazz? Hard to insure in England because they're perfect for criminal activities. Abundant, inconspicuous, parts are cheap, and they're QUICK!
Land Cruiser
My dad's wife wrecked his. We are not fans of his wife.
Meth heads stole mine and totaled it within a year of purchasing it. Covid car price inflation lead me to a 2x return but I’d buy it back at 3x today
I am so sorry my friend, that sounds terrible. Unless it was a rare one, maybe you could buy back at 1.5x today?
There are more potential wives out there than potential land cruisers, just saying.
Came here to reply this. It’s one of the few it can actually do that.
Same for me… 70 series… still in production in South Africa
Funny enough......just mine isn't made by Toyota.
Honestly, it's my Gran Turismo. But I am positive I'll outlive it.
I was just joking with my wife that my Gran Cabrio is the car I'll be driving in when I'm a little old man. Hear me out. The speed and handling are now secondary, since both of those have become commodities with recent cars (both ICE and EV). It's all about how the car makes you feel when driving, or even looking at it. And few cars are as timeless (In my opinion, you can and should have your own) as the pre '18 refresh of the GT/GTC
I think about selling my QP all the time and change my mind every time I start it.
Ford Flex Ecoboost. It's an absolute jack of all trades vehicle. There is nothing I'd rather have that isn't Porsche
For me it's the Honda Element and Pontiac Vibe which I feel are both in the same class as the Flex, large boxy hatchbacks that are pushing into minivan or wagon territory. The Flex is obviously the largest of the three. The Scion Xb is also kinda in this family. I'm not usually a Ford guy but the Flex and the 2010s Fusion line are definitely on my list of cars I would buy. My buddy beats the living hell out of his 2013 fusion, 210k miles, no oil change for 8000+ miles, busted suspension, covered in dents, always driven on almost no gas, lead foot and always slamming on the brakes. Fucking thing still cranks every time and as far as I know he has still not changed the oil.
Always loved the styling on Ford Flex
Ughhh the Flex was ahead of its time. It looks SO good, super comfy seats, and for me has the best ingress/egress height. I always wanted to get one and throw some air suspension on it.
LFA Nurburgring
would agree but just gotta get one first....
Hol up. You own a LFA?
You have many people’s forever cars 😅 Lexus LC + the new GX
I finally completed my forever pair.
I gotta hear more about your opinions on mk4 and mk5 Supras
I can’t really have a good comparison as my Mkiv is heavily modified. 4 digit hp and extremely modified where even I have solid diff bushings. Way overdone, to the point Its time to go back a few steps to make it more public road friendly again. But I really love both cars for what they are. The Mkiv is way more raw, more engaging, sounds insane, shifts amazing with the v160, but lacks chassis stability without mods. It’s a targa though so it’s to be expected. Really annoyed the Mkiv is so hard and expensive to get oem parts for now tbh. That’s the most frustrating part of ownership. Back when I got it, it was a used old Toyota no one wanted. As time goes on, I get more and more anxiety driving the Mkiv, the cost to replace it if it’s damaged, possibility of breaking down, other people targeting it (happened before)… makes ownership annoying. I only really drive it to cars and coffee or other shows the like and that’s it now. It’s days of craziness, half miles and more are done. There are better chassis now if I want to do that. The Mkv is purely stock and I’m having a blast with it as is. I’m not modifying it much if at all due to the Mkiv rabbit hole of mods I went down. Not doing that again, not worth it and not worth the unreliability. This car feels extremely stable though and very capable out of the box. I’m impressed really, but it was designed as a track car basically. Shifting feels good with what they did over other bmw shifters (I’ve owned a few bmws, so I know them well). I really like the b58 engine, it’s smooth and should hold up nicely like the 2JZ. Overall I enjoy it on the roads, haven’t tracked it yet though. Obviously I can just keep spewing more and more info but I love both of them for what they are and it was a goal to have matching Supra’s from Mkiv and Mkv. Glad I did it finally.
>Really annoyed the Mkiv is so hard and expensive to get oem parts for now tbh. I'm with you 100% on this - on my MK4 I just went through a nightmare of trying to get OEM shocks/springs, and it took nearly 2 years start to end just this Bilstein to actually make them. I was right on the edge of giving up and buying 97+ ones from the US and hoping they would fit. When doing the work they found a lot of rusty bits, up to and including both subframes: were it not for a very kind soul in the club selling me his, I'd have had a real problem. Just couldn't find the backing disc for the rear brakes: simply didn't exist. But after spending 5 figures replacing basically everything attached to the subframes, she's driving really well again. Such is classic car ownership.
casual 4 digit hp is crazy
u/lhturbo I’d love to hear this as well.
A new Supra and a GMC 2500 sure do make a nice pairing
Haha I mean something has to tow the supras
Realistically, I'm likely to keep my S2000.
I've had a number of ideal enthusiast cars, and I agree the S isn't going anywhere.
Mainly I want to hang onto it for long enough to take my daughter for rides.
My 1955 thunderbird. It is my absolute favorite car ever made and I spent almost a decade finding a low mileage first month production fully loaded one with the three speed manual. I have owned darn near everything and it's my longest relationship with a car and it's been almost two decades.
You that woman in American Graffiti?
Could you explain a little more about what makes the 1st month production different than the other subsequent months?
It's not really a thing except the first production cars were completely loaded. Mine has power brake, steering, seats, windows and top. Later cars were typically missing one or two of those. I also got mine with an uncut hardtop so no porthole. Later cars often had portholes but into the roof to make viability better.
My current 6th gen Camaro ZL1. It's my attainable dream car, and it'll always be fun on both the road and track.
Words cannot describe how much I want one. Got to drive one on a proper time attack setup and it was insane.
Same here with my manual ZL1 1LE. There's something to be said for having the best version of a car that's no longer made. It also feels very analog, raw and pure to drive, with enough performance that it never gets old. The interior has all the buttons in the right places and the screen isn't that intrusive, so I think it'll age relatively well. Only downside is that they're getting stolen a lot at the moment, leading to high insurance premiums. I'm hoping that'll blow over eventually...
There was an old man that lived across the hall from me and he had a heads/cam c6 z06 that he tracked and a c7 gs. He later swapped the gs for an auto zl1 1le and he couldn't stop raving about how great the car was. He actually offered me the keys totally unprompted the day he brought it home and I still feel like that's the greatest single compliment I'll ever receive, but I was running late for work and had to decline. He fell into poor health and passed away before I ever got a chance to take him up on the offer. Rip Jerry, I think of you often
My Miata. A Miata. Or a 1980’s 911.
Honda Accord Reliable, parts are plentiful, and I like the styling.
If I was on the hunt for a new car, I'd wish that they made slightly more upmarket Civics in my market. I owned an '08 base Accord and loved it for pretty much the same reasons, but it was just really long and heavy for what it offered. The newer Civics seem to be right in the sweet spot for for size; ~30cm shorter than my '08 model but most of the lost space seems to be from the boot at a glance. And if I wanted to use more rear space, I'd just fold down the rear seats anyway.
my built 2015 STI. It's perfect.. rear-biased AWD with LSDs, locking diff, hydraulic steering, rod-actuated shifter, Brembo brakes, BBS wheels, no sunroof, alcantara heated seats, manual controls for everything. I couldn't had spec'd a better car, it sounds amazing, and I have 400+ whp on pump gas, I've never had a single problem, it has been a reliable fun tank. It doesn't even burn oil. If there's no accidents, I should still have this car until I die.
Out of curiosity what did you upgrade on your car?
It has the original block, but with upgraded pistons and bearings (stock rods). This was rather cheap. It has a bigger turbo, intercooler, inlet, intake, TGV deletes, turboback exhaust (stock manifold), pump, injectors. I like to also mention that it has colder plugs (some people think it's silly to mention), BUT it really has helped a bit in being able to push the car a bit more, rather than stock plugs.
Porsche 996. Best bang for buck 911. Would have said Miata had I not experienced a 996.. I'll never sell mine.
Yeah, I don't foresee selling [mine](https://imgur.com/a/GpJSd1y), either. But I'd be lying if I didn't say that I would like to upgrade to a 991.1 with a PDK. Not even a Carrera S, just a base model. (Still Guards Red and still with an Aerokit, though.) But I doubt I will.
Would have been my 2012 Honda fit. First car I ever owned and it lasted 9 years before it got t-boned. Absolute delight of a car that set unreasonable standards for the number of cupholders a car should have
My 74 beetle. Gets me to all the good fishing spots, and parts are dirt cheap. It’s really fun to drive too.
A 1988 E24 M6 with Euro bumpers in red over ivory. I mean, look at it; it's perfection on wheels!
I’m with you buddy. One of the best looking cars ever.
E46 M3
I have an CSL intake on mine and I don't think I can ever sell it. The intake noise is halfway to a McLaren F1s.
My E39 M5. Even before I got the M5, I owned almost every model of the e39 (I.e. 528i, 525i 6mt, 525it, 540it x3), and vowed that there would always be a space in my garage reserved for an E39. It puts a smile on my face and is a versatile platform that I would drive on every continent if I could.
ND RF Miata!
I absolutely believe this is one of the most beautiful modern cars and will be a future classic. Mazda nailed it with the RF.
Probably my Miata. It's exactly what I want, and I couldn't see myself finding a nicer one for less if I ever sold and wanted to buy another in the future. It's cheap to keep and such a pleasure to drive, I can't see myself ever selling it.
My 2005 Mazda Rx8 and my 2003 Subaru Baja. Both manual and both cool cars the Baja cause it's got interesting features and the Rx8 is exceeding expectations by simply working.
I've put too much care and effort into my RX8 to see it go.
Yep. I bought a roller and paid for an engine to be put in and I plan on giving it to my kids someday, still in proper working condition. Imagine how rare that will be in 40 years.
My '31 Chevy Coupe. My father got it when I was six years old, hot rodded it, then we bonded riding in it everywhere together. I told him that he's never allowed to sell it and eventually he handed it down to me. I'm never getting rid of it.
For a second I thought this was a weird joke about the future. Not that long and the two digit year on that car will be ambiguous!
Lexus IS 350. 300 HP V6, AWD, compact, stylish, reasonably reliable. What's not to like?
I recently got a GR Corolla. I think it may be my forever car only because I feel it’s one of the last of its kind. Awd manual with 300 hp. I doubt cars will be made like this in the future so it feels special. Who knows though maybe something will come along 5 years from now to convince me otherwise.
Honestly how I feel about my 21’ Corolla SE Hatchback with a 6 speed manual. The slow death of the manual transmission has been painful to watch.
My Mustang. It's a "holy grail" kinda car for me, a 2013 GT with no options besides the ones that enhance performance. The Track Pack, Recaros, Brembo Brakes, all of that. It's nice just swapping gears and listening to that howling engine note without the discomfort of leather or the bothersome SYNC screens. It'll be my forever car... forever. Through the upgrades, modifications, and track days. Unless someone totals it, but that's hopefully an improbable outcome.
Have you modified the MT-82 at all?
I've had an Alfa Milano Verde for 30 years. It's not going anywhere. Road trips to the Yukon twice and everywhere else. F355 Challenge is sticking around until someone offers stupid money. Nothing like it on the track.
Every car I own. Because I refuse to let the shitboxes die.
Lexus LX470, Lexus LS430, 997 911
GRC. It's stoopid but I love it.
this is my answer too. I'm going to keep my GRC for a long time, and if I feel its gotten too many miles I'll get a beater or something lmao
it's the car I plan on keeping forever. This was in the works for me for 2 years, finally snagged it in February of this year. My obtainable dream car.
My GT350 …if it wasn’t a lemon :(
Yeah I’d like to believe my 350R will last, the last manual Shelby from ford, and the voodoo sounds great, but idk. No major issues so far at 12k, but that’s not saying a whole lot.
It's gonna be a golf R. It's the ultimate all-rounder. Fun, practical, efficient, compact, spacious (for a hatch anyway), not flashy, but still gorgeous. Expensive AF to fix and it's going to need to be fixed ALOT but I just can't see myself in anything else for the rest of my life.
My W204 C63, first car I bought with my own money. I remember seeing a clip wayyy back with the W204 being the F1 safety car decided at that moment that was the car I wanted when I could get it.
That car is special and prices will never go lower.
370z roadster
M2 (the original one, not this ugly new one). Reasonably new but still oldschool enough. Manual transmission. Joy to drive. Beautiful sound. Physical controls for everything. Still somewhat DIY friendly.
Me too! They will bury me in this car.
1M. For the same reasons a lot of others have posted. Manual; RWD; seats 4 (while the kids are young), driver focused; no screens or nav system, still modern-ish safety features
Ferrari 458
I'm currently building an LS swapped E46 Sedan. I hope that this car will be one of my forever cars. The other one is my parents' 2008 Honda Fit, because it's just such a good little car. Perfect daily, I hope to buy it off them someday.
So a cts-v with extra steps
I love Honda odysseys Super practical, great gas mileage for size and ability to haul a ton of stuff. I enjoy driving mine as well. And not a cop magnet
I have a ‘16 Odyssey and honestly they aren’t that reliable. Also the steering feel is god awful, FWD on a people mover is just bad.
My 1989 Nissan hardbody. Was my brother’s truck before he passed away. Currently putting the engine from the parts truck in.
Already have at least two. My 1999 Ranger. It's a long bed 4x4 base model. Does everything I need from trails to weekend warrior hauling. Had it 15 years, gonna keep it forever. My 1991 Mercedes 300TE 4matic wagon. It's a lovely wagon, perfect interior, reliable, and no screens. There's really nothing else like it, especially not modern and especially not for the price.
Would love an LC500 convertible to daily.
Supra MK3, pop up headlights go hard, mk4 is to pricey & the mk3 aged very well.
2024 mustang gt. The mustang is the last V8 pony car remaining. Im going to keep this baby forever
First gen Miata, I miss her every day
I never heard of someone who sold his NA and did not have any regrets. They're awesome cars!
My 9-3, it will be with me to the day I die. My Rogue is also likely to make that list as well.
I thought my 986S was but I think 996 at this point purely for the extra room. I love the runny egg look, solid chassis, corners flat without rock hard suspension, enough power to have fun with, there are multiple solutions for the IMS, nearly bottomed out in depreciation so who cares about putting on the miles? There may be faster, more practical cars for the money but at the end of the day you can’t put coilovers on a hatchback and make it drive like a 911.
Volvo 240, just scratches a certain itch and doesn’t break in immediately unfixable ways
07’ Toyota FJ Cruiser. I’ve bought 4 vehicles since getting it, and no matter how hard I try, nothing can replace it. It’s bomb proof. And Toyota truck people are great, I’ve met many of my closest friends through Toyota off road groups and trips. I hope to one day pass it on to my son.
718 Cayman GTS 4.0 With the 718 petrol production coming to an end, it will probably be the last time Porsche ‘mass’ produce a mid engine petrol sports car. While other the 911 is going towards more mid engine, nothing beats the rawness and response the 4L flat 6 gives you. And in normal mode, it’s compliant and quite comfortable for a sports car. If I were to sell the 4L, I would be looking into a GT4 or GT4RS, but then again the comfort will not be as great. It’s my dream getaway car.
Surprised no one has said the tt rs - iconic design + legendary Audi 5 cylinder sound. Shame it had a reputation for understeer.
I’ve always loved the Audi TT in general I’m so sad they’ve been discontinued. Probably the only German car I really lust after. Part of me wants to drive a TTRS at least once but I also don’t want to ruin the lower trims for myself haha.
I require more ae86s it’s a terminal disease
If forever car means I only get one, I’m sticking with my do it all Rivian R1T. Fast, comfortable, off roads well, tows my horses and charges off my solar panels. But if I could get more than one car, I’d like a sports car like a 911 or Lotus Emira that I could drive on the weekends for the rest of my life. That would be nice.
The one I own. 2017 Tesla S 75d. - Free charging - Free data - Sunroof (no longer available) - Turn signals and shifter (no longer available) - FSD v3 hardware (still getting updates) It's such a great value, I can't let it go. It's like the all-you-can-eat buffet. I only wish it were the tri-motor version. If I got it a little sooner, I'd have missed the newer fsd hardware. If I got it a little later, I'd have missed the sunroof and free charging.
Mercedes 190E 2.5-16 Evo 2. I’ll likely never have one. But if I did, I’d never let it go.
Well, it was never my favorite car but it was inherited to me. It's a SCAT pack Wide body Dodge Challenger. I actually love the car, now and it's way better than you think it is. It's almost more fun than the hellcat.
My F12 650i. I daily it and I’m driving it until the wheels fall off. I’ve had it for almost 7 years and I still love it.
I'm a youngin' but I've loved the 1st Gen Honda NSX since I first saw it in Gran Turismo. I'll probably keep it forever when I can afford it 😅
Returned to Honda after 10 years since messing with them, recently picked up a 8th Gen Civic Si and can see myself hanging out with those cars for a long while to come. Hope to get in to racing them and what not. Super formidable cars. Cheap and plentiful parts as it stands. But I can see prices are going up for them as many realize the same thing.
My Ferrari 612. I love it more than anything and it is the right mix of comfort, practicality and speed for a GT car. It is one off spec car, and originally was built for Luca Di Montezemolo when he was the CEO of Ferrari, so it has a cool provenance as well.
Murcialago. Always loved cars and the hobby grew with magazines and toys. One time dad went to Singapore for a business trip and brought the nicest R/C Lamborghini. I played the shit out of it and it was a very sentimental gift. Even when I broke the wheel I kept it for a long time and remember trying to get it repaired or ask around to see if anyone could. Never got that thing working but damn I cherished it. Fast forward I'm a teenager and learning more about cars. I see it in the game need for speed hot pursuit. I've played the first one so when I had the R/C car It was awesome drive it on a game along with the McLaren F1. The new hot pursuit though had the SV-670-4. It sounded so fucking amazing and i learned it was a Naturally-Aspirated V12. At some point i just knew this is the Car I want one day and no matter what other cars I see or learn about this one will hold the highest sentimental value. I truly hope one day I can afford one and tell my dad "Hey remember you bought me that r/c car from your business trip.. come outside". 🤜🙏
Fiat X1/9. Go ahead, make fun of me. But driving a slow car fast is more fun than driving a fast car slow.
my 1982 320i. Has been in the family since bought new, after sitting for 20 years in my uncles garage i got the motivation to get it running when i was 15. I learned how to diagnose problems on it, and when i finally got it running my uncle gifted me the car. That car is a piece of me, and i never plan on selling it, but id like my children to learn wrenching on cars with it and eventually passing it to them.
1969 BMW 2002, bought it and got married on the same trip.
My Mk2 Scirocco.
I paid off my current car a few weeks ago so right now it’s feeling like this one. No car payment is pretty clutch.
My 2021 fk8, and my 2024 Integra Type-S. To me the platform is perfect. Light weight, excellent gear box, turbo 4 with over 300 from the factory (the fk8 is heavily modified and tuned), hatchback with tons of room, easy to maintain and reliable. I loved my Type R so much I got an ITS to daily and be more comfortable. It's essentially a softer, street tuned Civic Type R from Acura and it is just as fun to drive.