20k for a new car - recommendations

[Mr D Black]

Hi,

I have between 20k-25k to spend on a car. I'd like one which drives well, speedy and turns heads (for the laydeez) and also to make my mates jealous. What car meets this criteria, and packs the biggest punch for the cash?

[waltadasilva]

Without a doubt go for an alfa Romeo GT Coupe. But ensure it has tan leather.

Looks fantastic in black or red.

[Loosehead]

If you mean a Brand New car then you'll not get much to write home about. Now if you go for a nearly new, say between 1 and 2 years old, you'll get something amazing for that kind of budget at a prestige car auction for example.

[jake-the-peg]

Do you really want to suffer the depreciation on a new car?

New Lotus Elises start at 23K I think you should be able to get one a year or two old on that budget.

eg http://www.parkers.co.uk/pricing/used_car/valuation.aspx?deriv=24451&model=435&plate=72&pay=false&buyorsell=buy

It'll certainly fulfill those criteria

[Impret-Sir]

Well looks are a matter of taste, but as has been said, I would go for a one or two year old car to let someone else pay the depreciation, then I would hoof it round to my local Subaru dealer for a new STI. Alternatives would be a BMW M3, or maybe an Audi S4. I dont actually thing that "laydeez" are really that impressed by flash cars, especially if they think you need that to impress them, Ive pulled very well in some right old bangers over the years!

[Ward-Minter]

Honda S2000 (a year or two old). Nothing will come close.

However, if you need a back seat a Subaru sounds good.

[the_gooner]

Get an Alfa.....new 159 for 20k..add extas upto 25k

or a nearly new gt...in black a lady magnet

[Mr D Black]

What about a 2nd hand porsche boxer or a tvr?

[Loosehead]

Well the boxster is not far off that new. Considered not to be proper Porsche, should be able to get a 911 for that. Don't know about the TVR

[jake-the-peg]

TVR's do have a bit of a reputation as a "widow-maker".

I have 2 friends who had a Griffith both were lucky to walk away from accidents in them.

[Cockney_si]

Have to agree with Ward-Minter...Honda S2000...one of few cars where they designed the engine before they designed the car.....who needs back seats when travel inns are so cheap....he he

[randy-andy]

the best thing to do is buy a larder, they are some of the fastest things ive ever seen . only joking. but not really

[weekutch]

Ford Focus ST. Amazing motor. Go check them out in the dealership.