Why not look at an older GS300? You could find one relatively cheap, aim for the early 2000s models. Might be a better option, you could find one with a 2JZ-GE or GTE (supra motor, I think this is JDM only? Regardless the 2JZ-GE has a ton of potential for mods) and have a ton of fun with it, gives you a great platform to mod/grow. Swap in a MT, boost it to 600whp, enjoy.

 

Another car I am considering is the next generation Subaru STI. It would be really nice to have AWD again (especially since we got another 9" of snow today). They recently released the S209 at the Detroit auto show. This is limited to 200 models coming only to the U.S. and it actually got a power bump to 341 and lots of other chassis, brake, and suspension upgrades. The interesting part about this car is that they targeted the Cadillac ATS-V's Lightning Lap time. (You have my attention ) We will have to wait until this summer to see if they got a better time, but I am sure they did. This would be impressive with quite a bit less power than the ATS-V. This also should mean that the next generation STI is even more potent. Now the S209 is rumored to cost $60-$65k so I would not consider that, but if the next STI is a contender and was <$50k, I would be very interested. This and the Golf R may be the last AWD performance cars available with a manual transmission.

 

I posted about this a couple pages ago, and it definitely has my attention. I agree, this is a teaser of the next gen STi. I can't imagine the outgoing model outperforming the new 2020. Recall, the type RA stuff all filtered down to the '19 STi with a minimal price increase. And Subaru has already commented that the 6MT will be available in the next generation. I'm excited that I might have another manual car option in 5-6 years.

I still don't think the R will carry on the 6MT. Manual Rs are languishing on dealer lots, and the 6MT has already been discontinued in other countries, plus, it would require some strengthening if the next gen R makes more power, which it presumably will. VW sold 3500 '18 Rs at a pretty close to 50/50 split on transmissions. IDK that it will be worth the R&D and certification costs to have a 6MT. I think Audi has completely discontinued manuals.

Still happy with the '18R. Apple Car Play, adaptive cruise, and functional cup holders are pretty nice for a daily drive. RSB and ~$650 or so of shifter mods went a long way lol. The OE wheels are still hideous, but I have some lightweight replacements sitting in the garage for when "winter" is over.

 

I told my wife that my next car is going to be a Nissan r35 gtr. This is going to happen within 5 years.

 

 

Was excited when they announced this car because of what you said. It's all positive signs that the next gen STi will have bits and pieces of the S209. Might have to jump back in a Subie again when the next gen is out. I miss driving a manual but at the same time I'm so comfy driving my G to work lol. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

 

That's good to hear. I went back and read the review you posted when you first got it and I appreciate the fair comparison. I would love an ATS-V, or something on that tier, but I think I'd be making a financially poor decision. The Golf R however, more specifically a '16 DSG, should be very affordable come 4-5 years. I want to make it an absolute rocket, just go all out on modifications. And before you say "ewww....automatic", fear not, the plan is to keep the G for my manual fix.

 

The DSG is the way to go if you're not obsessed with 6MT. There are even tunes for the DSG for shifting behavior/speed, and they are pretty robust, much more than the 6mt.

 

Lego, I'm happy for you to hear you're still liking that VW. It was quite a switch up.

 

I saw that some guys on the Golf R forums are running stage 2+ mods with only needing a DSG tune - that sounds appealing. After that, just putting in some clutch packs will allow them to easily go stage 3+. It amazes me how easily it is to turn these Golfs into monsters.

I saw a Haldex tune is available as well?? I didn't look into it, but I wonder what that would change.

 

I don't see myself ever parting with my 6MT car, these are just too rare, look great, and are a lot of fun.
Now my G35X, I wouldn't mind getting rid of that now, for a truck that can haul the family and tow my toys. I also wouldn't mind a model 3, X, or maybe WRX / Si as a daily.

The Model X would be most ideal since I could tow and have a nice family car that's good for the environment. I'm not saying I'm a die hard environmentalist but it would make up for the other polluters I have or plan on having. Plus I firmly believe in tesla/electric cars for the future.

 

*cough* Rivian *cough*

 

Hmm... msrp $18K nicely equipped. 2019 Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE LT+. This would nicely complement the G.

 

I thought someone posted up about the S209, but I didn't see it recently. Whoops! That's great news that Subaru is planning to keep a 6MT for the next generation. If VW is at a 50/50 take rate on the 6MT they might keep it. (fingers crossed) Like the Subaru, the Golf R could be a really great track car/daily driver with a better weight distribution and a bit more power. The VW could also use some fixed caliper brakes. You are right, Audi no longer makes manual transmissions.

That ATS-V may be cheaper than you think. They are depreciating a lot quicker than the Golf R. The only problem is that they are much more rare, especially if you get picky about the packages.

Hey, this is what vehicle would be a good replacement for your sedan. Not what motorcycle.