I'm 27. I've been driving a 4-cyl 5-speed Ford Ranger for the last decade. I had a brief moment of glory with a restored 67 El Camino with a 350 that could burn out through second gear before a cooling system failure killed it in my HS years. I'm looking for something around 15k (used, southern california market) and I have narrowed my list down to a bunch of different options. Now I need to go test drive some of these suckers! Any input is welcome. I love driving stick so that is preferred, especially if it's something lacking in the power department.
BMW Z4
VW GTI 4-door
Nissan 350Z
Mazda RX-8
Honda S2000
BMW M3 e46
I've got full clearance from the wife to get whatever the hell I want, so a 2 seater is fine, but all things equal 4 seats is better because I won't have to lose it if we have a kid in the next few years. I like the idea of convertibles, but the only ones that really speak to me are the m3 and z4. I'll let you all know my progress over the next few weeks and months.
As a 27 year old that a year ago was making the exact same decision and was driving a Ford Focus and occasionally, an A4, I think I am adequately placed to assist.
I opted for a 2007/8 350z. Great car. Great sound, looks fantastic (seriously, that silhouette is to die for), super rare in my area so no one knows what it is, effortlessly quick and very well equipped (awesome stereo, xenon highlights, cruise control, climate control, heated seats, parking sensors etc).
Other cars that I checked out - s2000 looked and felt cheap. Too raw. Audi TT not enough power and too much like an a4. RX8 - engine worried me. Heard all sorts of nightmares about it.
One tip which probably applies to all newbs that have never owned a sports car i.e. me a year ago- check the tyres before buying!. I got all 4 replaced within a month of purchasing which was about another $1k. Stock's were low on tread and also bone jarringly hard. Michelin Super Sports are not only grippier but soften the ride.