Monday, January 2, 2017

They're Fun To Drive, Not So Fun To Maintain

8 Non-Japanese Cars For JDM Enthusiasts To Consider

Volkswagen Golf R32

You want a nice street all-wheel drive car with plenty of modification potential and will have a powerful presence when seen in the public roads. What naturally comes to mind? I’ll bet you thought of an Impreza WRX STi or Lancer Evolution. While these two rally legends are phenomenal machines to drive and experience, they’re highly sought after and often have a high sticker price. If you want something just as capable, but different, and can save you a couple thousands upon initial purchase, consider the Volkswagen Golf R32 Mk4 or Mk5.

These stunning German hatchbacks come equipped with all-wheel-drive, 6-speed manuals, and the mighty 3.2L VR6, arguably Volkswagen’s greatest motor to date, producing about 240 hp in the Mk4 and 250 hp in the Mk5. With these features, you can easily power them up to match or even surpass the Impreza and Lancer Evolutions in a car that’s a bit more mature and civilized, especially from lack of the giant spoilers the two rally legends are known for.

Audi S4 Quattro Turbo B5

If luxury, comfort, and power are on your check list, it’s very likely a Lexus, Infiniti, or Acura is on that list somewhere. You could get either of those, or you could try for an Audi S4 Quattro Turbo B5. The S4 B5 is a handsome beast that comes with Audi’s reputable Quattro all-wheel-drive, choice of a 5-speed ZF auto or 6-speed manual, and a twin-turbo 2.7L V6 pushing about 250 hp, with plenty of power possible to be squeezed out of the capable motor. You can ride in style, comfort, and speed, a combination that is often associated with the best of German cars that aren’t Porsche. They also don’t cost much, as I’ve seen plenty of good examples costing as low as $5,000 USD. Obviously, maintenance costs will be above average, but for what you get with that money, is something marvelous.

(CarThrottle.com)

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