15k, something fun, daily or 2nd car

[sgtbash]

Hi Gents,

Although my 2004 X5 is serving me well, it's a bit old, and I'm looking to get into something fun/faster/newer.

My previous cars to note:

2018 M140i auto - did love this, although the handling was bad, and I got sick of seeing them everywhere all with the same mods.
2013 Golf GTi PP manual - adored this thing, wish I didn't let it go really, but I needed the cash at the time. So fun in the twistys.
2018 Golf GTi non PP DSG - boring but smart
2004 E46 M3 - also loved this, couldn't afford the running costs back then and it was a rough example
2004 impreza STI - One of my favorites, such a toy
2016 Mk7 Fiesta ST - awesome little thing, not grown up enough now though.

I'd like something smart for work, but also something I could take to the ring once a year. Also need it to have toys - good sound system etc.

I've been looking at Golf R's and Audi S3's, but I keep getting told they are boring, so unsure.

Thanks in advance!

[roadie]

Another Golf PP might well be worth a shout.

Else, something French might work out. I had an RS 265 Cup, which was an amazing drive although the sound system was a massive let down. The Peugeot 308 GTI could be a contender. Looks smart and is more modern inside.

[pb8g09]

M235i/M240i

In manual if you're so inclined.

[Dog Biscuit]

Cayman?

[ZX10R NIN]

PS 308 GTI 270, these are a cracking steer that can be a great daily or 2nd car:

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202404148...

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202406281...

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202406030...

SLK55 AMG:

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202406150...

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202404038...

If you can live with a CAT N, then this 370Z Nismo will be a great option.

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202311254...

C63:

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202405159...

2.9 Cayman:

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202407031...

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202406060...

Civic Type R:

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202406010...

As you can see fun comes in many forms.

[sgtbash]

Many thanks guys!

I never thought of a Cayman to be honest, I know nothing about Porsches (although I know I wouldn't mind a GT3 RS )

The Civic is a shout, i've also had a look at some A45's too, which are tempting.

[T0M]

A manual M140i with an LSD. A remap sees 420 bhp.

[Dog Biscuit]

sgtbash said:

Many thanks guys!

I never thought of a Cayman to be honest, I know nothing about Porsches (although I know I wouldn't mind a GT3 RS )

The Civic is a shout, i've also had a look at some A45's too, which are tempting.

They are a great steer - real old school.

Hydraulic steering, rwd, great sounding flat six and a great torque curve. Great to thread through the lanes when conditions allow yet comfortable and sedate when not in the mood.

Plus, it's a timeless 'Porsche' design that still cuts the dash amongst a sea of samey sameness

[Hoofy]

If you want actual fun, then you will have to look beyond the BHP and 0-60 times (the Golf R etc will impress on paper). It's how it actually feels if you're just driving along a country road when the conditions don't permit you do do say more than 45mph that a fun car will stand out, and not feel numb.

The best way is to try a few and ignore the acceleration capabilities.

[CG2020UK]

+1 for the Peugeot 308 GTI.

Had a Mk7 GTI manual I adored. I did find the 308 GTI a big step on to drive.

It’s quick on track than the new RS Megane or I30N as well.

Golf Rs and S3s get a really bad and undeserved hard time on here. Think they are great as well and worth considering.