So you are in the market for a family truckster, but the car enthusiast in you won’t let you buy a minivan or large SUV. Well her are a few suggestions that will satisfy the both you and your family.
For many years the station wagon was slowly replaced by the SUVs and Minivans. In recent years we have seen the reemergence of station wagons. German car manufacturers, especially, recognize the need for both space and performance in one well designed package. So here are a few options in the used sporty station wagon market from German car manufacturers in the $10k to $20k price range. Please keep in mind these top station wagons are the opinion of the author and represent a short list from a long list of excellent vehicles.
2001 to 2002 Audi S4 Avant – Housing the same power plant as its sedan brother, a twin turbo 6 cylinder engine, the Audi S4 Avant is truly a wolf in sheep’s clothing. Putting out 250 hp and 258 lbs of torque the Audi S4 Avant is able to sprint 0-60 mph in about 5.9 seconds. Utilizing Audi’s legendary Quattro all wheel drive power train this wagon is capable of handling the twisting back roads with ease.
The interior of the Audi S4 Avant is elegant yet functional making this sports wagon a pleasure to travel in. The Audi S4 Avant is available with either an automatic or 6 speed transmission.
The Audi S4 Avant typically is priced on the upper end of the $10K to $20K price range (as of the publish date of this article) depending on condition and mileage. As with any used car a Pre Purchase Inspection should be must.
Comparing a BMW M3 E46 and a Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR may sound a little silly to some people. What you may be surprised by is that some think the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR is no match for the BMW M3 E46 and others feel just the opposite.
So what makes these two vehicles competitive?
1. They both cost about the same. The 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR IX MSRP is around $36,924 ($36,299 MSRP and Destination and handling of $625 according to Mitsubishi’s website). As with any used car the condition largely dictates the price, but you should be able to acquire a relatively nice example of a 2001, 2002 or 2003 BMW M3 E46 for around the same price (with an aftermarket warranty) if not less (as of the publish date of this article).
2. Very similar performance numbers.
3. Similar audience except for a small age gap.
4. Both cars are relatively track ready for the weekend warrior.
5. Lastly, both vehicles represent benchmarks among their peers.
So let’s examine these cars in the following categories:
Performance:
BMW M3 E46 (2001, 2002, and 2003): The BME M3 E46 came stock with a 333 hp and 262 lbs of torque inline 6 cylinder engine. This rear wheel drive (RWD) sports sedan is able to push 0 to 60 mph in about 4.8 seconds and the ¼ mile in about 13.1 seconds at 106 mph.
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR IX (2006): The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR has a turbo charged inline 4 cylinder engine that pumps out an impressive 286 hp with 289 lbs of torque. With a 143 hp per liter, the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR is capable of going 0 to 60 in about 4.6 seconds and the ¼ mile in about 13.4 seconds at 104 mph.
Handling:
The Mitsubishi has the upper hand on the twisting back roads with its all wheel drive power train. This is not to say that the BMW M3 E46 has poor handling, just it requires more driving expertise to manage through the turns then the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR. The BMW M3 E46 advantage over the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR is at the higher speeds. The Mitsubishi Evolutions power is more pronounced at less than 100 mph, where the BMW M3 E46 has been designed for Autobahn high speed driving. Both of these vehicles have a somewhat harsh ride and could prove challenging on long trips.
Styling and Finish:
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR looks the part of the boy racer, with its large spoiler and the aggressive front end. The BMW M3 E46 on the other hand does have an aggressive look, but maintains BMW’s overall 3 series design. Hands down the BMW M3 E46 wins in the department of finish. The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR has a rather dull interior with very little frills.
BMW M3 E46 Interior
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR Interior
Ownership Costs:
The BMW M3 E46 can carry some expensive maintenance bills especially since it is a used luxury vehicle, but the Mitsubishi is also expensive to maintain considering is has Brembo brakes and its tires cost over $250 a piece to replace. The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR carries a higher liability risk than the BMW M3 E46 resulting in increased insurance costs.
The Verdict:
When you spend $35,000+ on a new or used car it is nice to be reminded of your investment every time you go for a drive, with this in mind, I lean more towards the BMW M3 E46. Unfortunately the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR really lacks the fit and finish of the BMW M3 E46. The Mitsubishi does have aggressive acceleration and excellent handling, but the BMW gives you performance, handling all while maintaining fit and finish.
Louder, lighter, barer and a little faster than the Carrera 2, is a pretty good description of the Porsche RS America which was produced in 1991, 1992 and 1993. In 1991 Porsche released the RS America into the USA market in hopes to answer a demand from enthusiasts yearning for the RS available in Europe at that time.
The RS of Europe was virtually a race car for the weekend warrior. Unfortunately the Porsche RS America fell short of its European cousin because for US laws regulating the release of new cars into the USA market. For a car to be approved for the roads in United States they are required to be crash tested and pass strict emissions (among many other things), so what makes the RS of Europe truly great could not be fully adopted by the RS America.
The RS America is essentially a lighter version of the Porsche Carrera 2. The RS America did come stock with a stiffer suspension and an upgraded set of wheels (which where both options for the Carrera 2 and 4) and the brakes are from the stock Carrera. The appearance inside and out is slightly altered. The Porsche RS America came standard with a fix mounted whale tale and an aluminum hood. The interior boasts 2 Recaro seats, removed rear seats, less sound dampening, pull strap inside door handles and thinner side glass. The modifications to the Porsche RS America lightened it by about 80 lbs and lowered the original sticker by about $10,000 (less than the Carrera 2). Their where only 4 options available on the Porsche RS America; Limited Slip Differential, Air Conditioning, Radio and a Sunroof.
The Porsche RS America has a 3.6 liter air cooled flat 6 cylinder engine that powered the Carrera 2 and 4. With 247 hp and 228 lbs of torque the Porsche RS America goes 0 to 60 in about 5.4 seconds (factory).
To many enthusiasts, this special edition brought Porsche back to a more functional time. Due to its limited production numbers, the Porsche RS America is rather rare and typically demands a price accordingly.
For more information on the 1991, 1992 and 1993 Porsche RS America please visit RSAmerica.net (Porsche RS America Registry)
In mid 1989 Porsche introduced a dramatically reengineered version of their famed 911 called the 964. Porsche claimed that they had changed over 80% of the car from the previous model year. The new Porsche 964 had a slightly more rounded look, but maintained the classic overall shape of the Porsche 911. The real innovations were to the Power plant which was increased to a 3.6 liter air cooled flat 6 cylinder and the revolutionary all wheel drive Carrera 4.
The Porsche Turbo 964 which was released in 1991 did not receive the same advances to its power plant as the Carrera 2 and 4 (C2, C4) and was released with the relatively same 3.3 liter Turbo motor from the 1989 Porsche 930. The 1991 and 1992 Porsche 964 Turbo engine had 320 hp and 337 lbs of torque. With the 3.3 liter turbo motor the Porsche Turbo 964 went 0 to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds (according to the factory). The main advantage of the 1991, 1992 Porsche Turbo 964 was the power plant that had been in development for over 10 years and most of the kinks had already been worked out.
In 1994 (1993 for Europe and the rest of the world except USA) they released the Porsche Turbo 964 with a turbocharged version of the 3.6 liter air cooled engine. The turbocharged 3.6 liter engine pumped out an impressive 360 hp and 383.5 lbs of torque propelling this rare Porsche Turbo 0 to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds (factory). The Porsche 964 Turbo is able to go 0 to 100 mph in an impressive 10.1 seconds and get to 113 mph in the ¼ mile.
The 1994 3.6 Liter Porsche Turbo is one of the rarest Porsches because of its very low production numbers. Production was limited because of the introduction of the Porsche 993 in mid 1994 and Porsche did not release another Turbo until 1996 (Porsche 993 tt (Twin Turbo)).
So you don’t like the new body style of the new E60 BMW M5 (2006 – present), but love the awesome performance that comes with it. Well, Dinan has a solution for you and it is call the E39 BMW M5 Dinan S3 (1999-2003 E39 body style).
Dinan took the already impressive E39 BMW M5 ’s V8 and super charged it to 621 hp and 502 lbs of torque. The idea of adding a supercharger to any car seems relatively simple, but keeping the car street able and maintaining any type of reliability requires a lot of engineering and knowledge. Dinan is known for their ability to add power while maintaining the reliability of a vehicle. Not only does Dinan increase the power of the E39 BMW M5 but also sets the vehicle up to handle the incredible power increase (221 hp over the stock 400 hp). According Dinan the S3 is capable of a top speed of around 191 mph.
So for about $70,000 plus a stock E39 BMW M5, you can have probably one of the fastest M5’s on the road and give exotics a real run for their money. Learn more about Dinan at Dinancars.com.
Here is a video from the M5Board.com of a Dinan BMW M5 S3 from the passenger seat.
So you are looking for German engineering and classic lines, well here is a short list of our top 5 picks for Sporty German cars between $10,000 to $20,000 (as of this publish date). We choose these cars for their performance and overall everyday drivability. Keep in mind that this list represents the opinion of the author. Keep in mind that prices can vary in different markets and the pricing was based off of edmunds.com “true market value” and listings available online on Autotrader.com and Ebaymotors.com.
(They are in no particular order)
1996-1999 BMW E36 M3 – If you needed one word to describe the E36 BMW M3, the word would have to be “handling”. The naturally aspirated inline 6 cylinder engine packs a smooth and sweet sounding 240 hp and 236 lbs of torque (USA version). Capable of going 0 to 60 mph in about 5.5 seconds and a top speed of 145 mph (electronically limited). During its production the E36 BMW M3 was the benchmark for sports sedans.
In 1997 and 1998, BMW offered a 4 door version of this special sedan. Among owners and enthusiasts it is a common belief that the 4 door has a stiffer body. In 1998 and 1999 they offered a convertible version.
Prices range from $10,000 to $20,000 depending on condition, year, etc. As with any used car you should definitely consider having a pre purchase inspection (PPI) completed.
1978-1983 Porsche 911 SC – In 1978 Porsche released the 911 SC with a new more reliable power plant and a much needed galvanized body. Powered by an air cooled flat 6 cylinder engine, the Porsche 911 SC had 180 hp at 5500 rpm in 1978 and 1979, 188 hp in 1980 and 204 hp at 5900Rpm in 1981, 1982 and 1983. The Porsche 911 SC managed 0 to 60 mph in about 7 seconds and had a top speed around 135 mph.
Sporting the classic style that has defined Porsche since the 1960’s, this vehicle is absolutely stunning. Pricing can vary greatly due to condition, but there are definitely some good examples available for under $20,000. Make sure you find a good Porsche mechanic and you should absolutely get a Pre Purchase Inspection (PPI).
2000-2002 Audi S4 (B5) – In 2000, Audi released their answer to the BMW M3 in the USA (was available in Europe from 1997). Powered by a twin turbo charged V6, the Audi S4 (B5) has 250 hp and 258 lbs torque. The Audi S4 is capable of going 0 to 60 mph in about 5.5 seconds and is electronically limited to a top speed of 155 mph. The S4’s real advantage lies in its all wheel drive system which has been the root of Audi’s identity since the 1980’s.
The Audi S4 was available in as a 4 door sedan and also as the Avant (wagon). Pricing ranges from $10,000 to $20,000 depending on condition. The 4 door sedan in good supply, while the Audi S4 Avant is much rarer find. Again, as with any used vehicle a pre purchase inspection is a good idea.
1997-1999 Porsche Boxster – In 1997 Porsche released this beautiful roadster with a warm reception from the American public. This Porsche was priced within range of a much larger group of people than its 911 big brother. The Porsche Boxster is a perfect example of what a roadster is suppose to be; fast, fun and easy to drive. The Boxster is powered by a smooth 6 cylinder that generates 201 hp and 188 lbs of torque. The Porsche Boxster will run 0 to 60 mph in about 6.7 seconds.
A good example of a 1997 to 1999 Porsche Boxster and be purchased between $10,000 to $20,000. The years are chosen based off of the pricing, you may be able to find a 2000 Porsche Boxster under $20,000, but the 1997, 1998 and 1999 Porsche Boxsters are more readily available in this price range. Pre Purchase inspection is once again suggested.
1998-2000 BMW M Coupe- The BMW M Coupe definitely commands a second look. You will either love the look or absolutely hate it. Awkwardly beautiful is how I like to describe this sport coupe. Powered by the BMW M3’s 240 hp and 236 lbs of torque inline 6 cylinder, the BMW M Coupe will sprint 0 to 60 mph in about 5.3 seconds.
Handling is excellent and the sound is equally impressive. Pricing for a 1998, 1999 or 2000 BMW M Coupe is on the upper end of the 10,000 to 20,000 range. Once again a pre purchase inspection is suggested.
All of the aforementioned cars are somewhat specialty vehicles that can and do require expensive parts and maintenance to insure they continue to perform.
This is just a short list from a long list of awesome German vehicles. Please feel free to comment on your favorite German car in this price range.
Like its early 1970’s predecessor the New 2007 Porsche 911 GT3 RS promises to command the attention of collectors and true enthusiasts. Bearing the same graphics as the 1970’s RS this version was created with the same buyer in mind, the weekend race car driver.
The 2007 911 Porsche GT3 RS manages to squeeze 415 hp and 300 lbs of torque out of this Non turbo charged 3.6 liter, 6 cylinder engine. With this impressive power plant the new RS manages 0-60 mph in about 4 seconds and a top speed around 193 mph. Although the speed is impressive, the real distinction is the overall setup of the vehicle which makes the handling near legendary.
With production numbers limited to just a couple hundred vehicles, this RS should be in short supply. Porsche has a MSRP of $124,060 and customization options that can easily bring the price up another 20% +-, but with these limited production numbers, you may end up paying a lot more.
In 1987 a legend was born from an already impressive vehicle, the Porsche Ruf CTR “Yellowbird”. When this modified Porsche 911 Carrera was released, it absolutely thumped its competition. Reaching 0-60 mph in about 4 seconds and an astounding top speed of 211 mph, the Yellowbird was (and still is) a real super car.
The 1987 Porsche Ruf CTR Yellowbird truly defined the capabilities of an aftermarket company to take an already great car and make it spectacular. Weighting in at only around 2500 lbs this twin turbo neck breaking monster handled more like a race car then a refined sports car.
A true testament to this creation is the continued use as a comparison vehicle to new supercars. The industry still thinks of this vehicle as a benchmark.
Weight: 1550 kg(2535 lb)
Power: 469 hp@ 5950 rpm
Torque: 408 ft•lbf@ 5950 rpm
Specific output: Apprx. 137 horsepower per litre
Power to weight ratio: Apprx. 5.4 pounds per horsepower
0-60 mph: 4.0sec
0-125 mph: 11.4sec
Quarter mile: 11.7@ 133.5 mph
Top Speed: 211 mph
Video of the Porsche Ruf Yellowbird at Nürburgring:
