[trackbird]

My wife has been looking at Mini Cooper's lately. Unfortunately, the Mini dealer didn't want her VW very badly (50% depreciation in 1.5 years and 25k miles?).

It was wet out and I kept the test drive short, but I really liked it (Cooper S). Actually, I liked it more than I thought I really would. It could use a bit more power, but it wasn't a pig (it's not a Camaro either). The handling was reasonably crisp and it was a bit go cart like. I found myself thinking that I could possibly live with one of those as a daily driver. And, tires and such for autocross will be considerably cheaper than my current ride. I'm really thinking that I should take another look at these. It's small, and really rather fun to drive.

She won't be buying one for a while, but....I could probably sell the Z at this point..... :leaving:

[BigEnos]

I just can't get past the idea that $22K (approx price of a "stripped" supercharged Cobalt SS) would have bought a Z28 a few years ago, and will still buy a 2006 Miata MX-5 (which, unlike previous years, will fit me) or a Solstice with LSD.

To me, part of the definition of a "practical" car, even with sporty options, is that it must cost a lot less than the "not practical" cars I'd really want.

One "problem" is that the Cobalt SS can only be had with everything. Leather, power stuff, etc. Only options are curtain airbags, sunroof, satellite radio, maybe one other thing.

A $22K Z28 had far fewer "goodies" and that was 4 years ago.

I know what you mean about the cost/benefit analysis though. Carmax has a 2001 Z06 with 30K miles for $27,700. $5K (probably more like $7K when the deal is done) premium for a 'vette with 385hp. Hmmmm (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/blink.gif) And, it won't depreciate as much/as fast as a new car will.