Car Fanatics Forum

So my car finally died(or damn near that I called it). I can't put anymore money into it, she's lasted me over 50k miles for 1100 bucks I can't complain to much.

So in my search for a new vehicle I came across a Cobalt and a Neon. Both are at the same dealer. The Cobalt has a link but they just got the Neon in and don't have it on the website yet.

Cobalt
2005
5 Speed Manual
2.2L Ecotec
120k Miles
Leather
The interior was kind of dirty, especially the front door handles and switchplates(paint and chrome was peeling)

The previous owner decided to install a turbo with custom exhaust and I'm guessing a custom clutch.

I test drove it and in second gear could easily spin the tires. I got it up to 120 on the highway before letting off, drives great has good power and overall seems like a good little car. What worries me though is if the 2.2 can handle the turbo, and reliability of the turbo etc. So I am thinking about taking it somewhere that does Turbo work and having them check it out.

The dealer had the car listed for $6,995 on their website but have lowered the price to $5,495. KBB says about $5,500 for private party good condition.


Neon
2004
2.0L
95K Miles
5 Speed Manual
Cloth interior

I have driven Neon's before but I drove this one after the cobalt, and it was ok, but definitely hard to adapt to not having the power. Overall it drove nicely and the interior was real clean except that there was a small rip in the back seat(hardly noticable).

Listed at $5,495. KBB Retail is about $5,550.


Both cars really fit what I need well. I know the Cobalt will likely get worse mileage because of the turbo, but it would be super fun to drive. The neon will get around 30 on the highway. I was more comfortable in the seat of the Cobalt, but the Neon(not having a turbo) drove a little better as far as shifts were concerned. But the Cobalt was real quiet and real smooth even at 120. So I am just looking for some input from you guys.

I have to say that I was always weary of seeing turbos in cars that didn't have them from the factory unless I knew the person who did it and trusted his/her work. Especially if its one of those ebay turbo kits which so many posers of posers (2nd degree posers) are doing these days. A kit with that many miles makes me turn away from it. The Neon sounds like a solid choice. I would go for the Neon personally. That is if you don't want to wait and look for something else.

I'd pass on both and keep looking. I wouldn't trust any mods from anyone other than me, and Neon's had a nasty habit of blowing head gaskets, or so I've been told.

I'd look for something a bit newer that hasn't been messed around with.

I agree with G8 and keep on looking.... Also agree with Rev, I don't trust a lot of these 'back yard' mechanics.

And, of course, a moment of silence for the Cutlass.













































There.

Amen.

Keep looking, you can find nicer

Spend a little more and get an SRT4

I know you want to be Pro-American, but....really, there are WAY better options out there.

well if there were ever a worse car than the Neon, it would be the Cobalt and the Caliber. so if those are your choices pick the Neon.

nell_z;186992 Wrote:I know you want to be Pro-American, but....really, there are WAY better options out there.

Agreed. I wouldn't be as worried about brand loyalty if I were on a strict budget, I'd be more worried about getting a good deal on something that's going to be reliable.

Come out to Detroit and buy this, it's so much better than a Cobalt or Neon.

http://detroit.craigslist.org/wyn/ctd/2779164889.html

DOUGtheSHEP;186993 Wrote:well if there were ever a worse car than the Neon, it would be the Cobalt and the Caliber. so if those are your choices pick the Neon.

How do you figure? I will admit the Cobalt is cheap (as is the Caliber) but jeez its hard to get much cheaper than a Neon... Now before some get your panties in a ruffle I'm not dogging the Neon but just find it hilarious that he could be promoting a Neon and dogging the other two

atvman;187019 Wrote:Come out to Detroit and buy this, it's so much better than a Cobalt or Neon.

http://detroit.craigslist.org/wyn/ctd/2779164889.html

Oh damn! That car is priced 'WAY' to cheap and do you want to know why? Because it's RARE! Mofo has a 2.3L V4 !!!!!