Which do you prefer BMW X5 or Land Rover sport?

[Fanatik]

I find it funny that kids that can't drive yet, are giving their insight on such expensive cars. Get your license, wreck a couple of mom and dad's cars, and come back with experience.

Anyhow, it's going to lay in your hands what you choose. Do your research (Edmunds is great), test drive a few cars and come to your conclusion. I have a 350z right now, and I know what you mean by needing to get something else. If you're looking for a type of vehicle like you're talking about - and you want to go Japanese (whoever the hell said an AUDI was a Jap car, you have your countries mixed up) I'd recommend Lexus or Infinity. Like Advertise Here said - you just can't go wrong with Toyota-made dependibility. Infinity's FX35/45 are sporty cross-overs, and are amazing vehicles as well.

Again, we can tell you what we like, and the teenagers here can voice their unabashed opinions on what they 'think' they like, but it'll all come down to your preferences, comfort with the test drives, etc. Last but not least, don't take advice from some of these kids that dont even have a license, and think an Audi A5 is the be-all/end-all... lol damn kids these days.

-Jay

[Fanatik]

Also, let's not mention the end-game... how much is your maintenance and TOTAL ownership costs going to amount to? If you get a BMW, Lexus, etc - think about the parts if something fouls up. Lexus is a bit easier since it's Toyota made, but you should have those after-purchase expenses in mind as well. -another 2 coins.

[JohnnyBudZ]

I find it funny that kids that can't drive yet, are giving their insight on such expensive cars. Get your license, wreck a couple of mom and dad's cars, and come back with experience.

Anyhow, it's going to lay in your hands what you choose. Do your research (Edmunds is great), test drive a few cars and come to your conclusion. I have a 350z right now, and I know what you mean by needing to get something else. If you're looking for a type of vehicle like you're talking about - and you want to go Japanese (whoever the hell said an AUDI was a Jap car, you have your countries mixed up) I'd recommend Lexus or Infinity. Like Advertise Here said - you just can't go wrong with Toyota-made dependibility. Infinity's FX35/45 are sporty cross-overs, and are amazing vehicles as well.

Again, we can tell you what we like, and the teenagers here can voice their unabashed opinions on what they 'think' they like, but it'll all come down to your preferences, comfort with the test drives, etc. Last but not least, don't take advice from some of these kids that dont even have a license, and think an Audi A5 is the be-all/end-all... lol damn kids these days.

-Jay

You dont need a license to give insight on a car., its about market research and consumer reports. You would'nt know how much HP a car had by stepping in it and hitting the gas. I love how you ALWAYS have something to say.

[Fanatik]

You can read all you want, but you can't tell the roll/give/lag and other factors in reading reports. Only when you have experience with driving different cars, suv's, trucks, and other sorts of vehicles will you understand that reading reports doesn't suffice for knowledge on cars. Don't get into a pissing match about cars, I'll win, I promise. Cars can look gorgeous and have maintenance problems up the ass (ie: AUDI's!). Just because a car looks cool, goes 0-60 with your hair on fire, and some consumer reports person SAYS it handles well, won't tell you your personal perspective on the vehicle.

Need I say more?

[armenh]

You better stop saying what you are about the A5, because that is probably the best car out right now in its category. The only fact you gave in your whole 3 posts was that you have a 350z, which you might be lying(sp) but I will take your word for it. Get some facts into these posts guys, what the A5 goes 0-60 in like 5.3 seconds....

[JohnnyBudZ]

IM not going to get into a "pissing" match about cars. It isn't even worth my time. BTW, you only claimed to have owned a 350Z, so how can you tell the "roll/give/lag" on the other cars that are being discussed. The initial reason I said somethig was beucase you really just think your "to good", or "experienced" for everyone here, thats why you always have to input an asshole remark.

[StealYourDreams]

Also, let's not mention the end-game... how much is your maintenance and TOTAL ownership costs going to amount to?

I'm a pretty selfish guy except when it comes to my shareholders. Meaning, I'm not easily swayed once I have my mind made up and I'm pretty confident I'll end up with the X5. I just wanted to get peoples impression.

To me, personally, it is far and away the sexiest SUV, or SAV, as BMW has named it. Almost all auto rags rave about the performance, it has off the charts consumer satisfaction even with the known electronic problems , and it's safety cant be touched.

I tow motorcycles to the race track and do drive on dirt roads although thats maybe one weekend a month. Primarily the car will be used for commuting back and forth to work. I dont ski and I live in southern CA so how it does in the snow with the 20" rims makes no difference.

I'm looking for something that drives like a car and is capable of towing 3000 lbs max and is in the luxury segment. I want something that I can park on the street and not worry about. Nice, but not too nice.

Thus far, it fits my criteria to a tee. Regarding total driving costs the maintenance program (4yr/50,000 mile) covers everything except tires.

Appreciate the input.

[Fanatik]

Sounds like a sweet plan then. And for the kids, wrap your head around the R32 and R33 Skyline, and get back to me. When I was stationed in Japan, I owned both, and both would demolish your pretty little A5. I always have something to say, because ignorant little kids like you come on here, claiming to know the ins and outs of cars, when you dont even have damn driver's license. "well, my dad said..." give me a break. The A5 is a nice looking car, I'm not contesting that. Best in it's class? That's personal opinion, and one you've developed by looking at a computer screen. Until mommy and daddy buy that car for you to wreck, you haven't a clue as to how it operates or drives. Spoiled kids like you make me sick, if you're really going to have that as your first car. Not only does it make me sick, but it makes your parents irresponsible and foolish.

Come on up to Boston and we'll see who's got the 350. I'm always up for a good race. The track in NH has to be open by now; anyone up for a meet?

Anyhow, sorry to semi-jack the thread, but I think I got the point across. And yes, in So Cal, you shouldn't have to worry much about the snow That's one thing I can't stand on a lot of the newer cars... If you select a certain trim level or package, you automatically get the heated seats and mirrors. I'm about to move to Vegas -- I dont think I'll need those there! lol. Good luck w/ the purchase, and by all means, let us know how you like it! -J

[JohnnyBudZ]

Sounds like a sweet plan then. And for the kids, wrap your head around the R32 and R33 Skyline, and get back to me. When I was stationed in Japan, I owned both, and both would demolish your pretty little A5. I always have something to say, because ignorant little kids like you come on here, claiming to know the ins and outs of cars, when you dont even have damn driver's license. "well, my dad said..." give me a break. The A5 is a nice looking car, I'm not contesting that. Best in it's class? That's personal opinion, and one you've developed by looking at a computer screen. Until mommy and daddy buy that car for you to wreck, you haven't a clue as to how it operates or drives. Spoiled kids like you make me sick, if you're really going to have that as your first car. Not only does it make me sick, but it makes your parents irresponsible and foolish.

Come on up to Boston and we'll see who's got the 350. I'm always up for a good race. The track in NH has to be open by now; anyone up for a meet?

Anyhow, sorry to semi-jack the thread, but I think I got the point across. And yes, in So Cal, you shouldn't have to worry much about the snow That's one thing I can't stand on a lot of the newer cars... If you select a certain trim level or package, you automatically get the heated seats and mirrors. I'm about to move to Vegas -- I dont think I'll need those there! lol. Good luck w/ the purchase, and by all means, let us know how you like it! -J

I think someones been watching a little to much of Tokyo Drift........

[jshua]

BMW is awsome go with that one lol

[StealYourDreams]

As i see it and this is just my opinion i could go and buy a high end 4x4 in the UK and if i chose too i would spend a long long time searching for the best bargain as i am frugal with my money but it would never get to that stage because the money always goes into investments that increase year on years albeit some years slower than other's but with a car as soon as you leave the forecourt you have lost a fantastic amount of money.

I take it forecourt is the same as carlot, just as boot is trunk. Why have I not heard this on top gear? Anyway, to each their own but I dont see the the point in not spending money on yourself. The way I see it is that you cant take it with you.

Additionally, when used for business purposes the fact that it depreciates the second you drive iot off the lot becomes a moot point being that it is a writeoff.

Cars mean nothing to me really as all i want is something that is comfortable,reliable and something that i can leave without being damaged in a carpark.

There's a saying in marketing that perception IS reality. I dont know if the same holds true in the UK as I've never spent any significant amount of time there and do not currently conduct business there, but successful people want to deal with other successful people. It may be that you conduct the majority of your business online, I dont know. I take clients, or prospective clients, to lunch at least three days a week and I also pick the ones I fly in up at the airport. I'm asking these people for investment dollars.

I love to see people driving nice cars and yes if a person wishes to spend what ever on the top of the range car i wish them well but for me i will stick with the 3 medium value cars that we own.

Mega.......

The post asked members which cars they preferred and why. Your whole post had a "what a stupid thing to do" tone to it and you didnt bother to answer the original question. I know you're a moderator and I may be playing with fire...

[Fanatik]

StealYourDreams, I agree 100% in the perception you give off via the vehicle you drive. How would it look if, when I had my car audio/performance businesses, and drove a Toyota Corolla? It'd be a joke to my customers and clients; why would they deal with me if it's obvious I A) don't have the financial stability to afford a nicer car, and B) I promote high performance vehicles, and drive a grocery getter?

A car is certainly an extension of one's personality. If a car is an 'object' to someone, and not a statement - you might want to reconsider what kind of statement you're making when you drive up in a station wagon as opposed to a BMW Coupe. Even in the Air Force, perception is key -- whether it's the car you drive, the friends you have, or the places you frequent.

There was a very extensive study provided by SEMA market analysts in the demographics and professions that people norm when they purchase certain cars. Professional mothers, usually the Lexus RX series; single, wealthy males, usually a BMW coupe. The list goes on. You wouldn't see a Mercedes on a cornfield in Nebraska; as you wouldnt see a mud-covered '89 Jeep Wrangler as the primary car for a business executive in NY. I say primary, because everyone likes to play a little.

JohnnyBudz, grow up and come back when you figure out how to carry-on a decent, well constructed conversation. Adults are talking.

[Hooman]

snip...

Hey Fanatik, I think you should tone down the cyber ego just a notch. It's an Internet forum and anyone is free to give their opinion.

[Fanatik]

And I gave my opinion. Thanks for your request, but I'm fine, thanks.

[JohnnyBudZ]

And I gave my opinion. Thanks for your request, but I'm fine, thanks.

Your a legit douchebag. I don't even care if that gets me kicked off this site.

So actually gettt money, you pencil pusher, then start talking like your a big shot.

what a tool.