Yes, another one just evolved into Homo Motoricus! I'm 42, so it was about time, right?
Although I (obviously) wasn't really a car enthusiast in my entire life, I still possess balls and certain interests come with them, so I have a fair picture about makes, models and technologies. Yet the puzzle is still missing a few pieces, and this is where YOU get the opportunity to tell me how to live my life! No, really. Any help to make this decision is appreciated. What should I get? I wouldn't really drive it in a city as I live very close to the office, so it'd be a weekend car, stashed away in the underground parking lot for most of the week. Here are my options:
1. A 2-3 years old Toyota Corolla
Pros: Corollas are reliable and rarely break, unless deliberately abused. They are also super safe in case of an accident and cheap to maintain. I can still sell it or trade it in a few years later if I want something else.
Cons: It's a Corolla. Perfectly balanced and bland. It just rolls and that's it.
A 2010-ish Ford Mustang convertible
Pros: It's a convertible, so it's a lot of fun. Helps to cope with midlife crisis. Cheaper than a Corolla.
Cons: Still won't make me 17 again. Not sure if it'd make a good first car for an inexperienced driver. Prone to live up to its namesake on winter roads. Also, it's a convertible - not meant for arctic temperatures. May have hidden issues - those who own a Mustang don't drive cautiously. Probably won't sell very well when I someday want to get rid of it.
A 2006-ish Audi convertible
Pros: Same as for the Mustang, but instead of a wild horse it's an elegant German beast. Handles much better in winter too.
Cons: May cost more to maintain than a high end prostitute. Also a convertible. Also won't sell very well at the end.
A 2011-ish BMW hardtop
Pros: Still a bit of fancy, still German (my taste must have something to do with my ancestry), but without the drawbacks of a softtop.
Cons: Hidden issues are quite common. Fixes may cost almost as much as an Audi.
So, ladies and gentlemen... should it be a bland but safe Corolla or risk something with more testosterone?