Cynically Optimistic

To follow up my previous post, I'd like to talk about new cars. Not necessarily brand new cars, but newer than 2000 model year. I'm of two minds on the subject. When it all boils down, a car is merely a tool to get me from point A to point B. In my case, this is over a poorly maintained road that is ironically called "Highway 25A", while it is neither high, nor a good way, or arguably 25 of anything. I need a reliable car to get me from work to home every day, about 15 minutes each way. Also, trips to the store and roadtrips in the area would need to be reasonably comfortable.

What's the smart choice? A Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla (also, the Ford Focus is decent). Both are small cars with good gas mileage, are very reliable and have low maintenance. But they aren't really that exciting or fun to drive. They do make a lot of economic sense.

So, what do I want? What do I really really want? Well Spice Girls, I want a Mini Cooper S with all the bells and whistles. At least I think they are really awesome and would be fun to drive, although I have yet to ever get inside one, much less take a test drive. That may soon change.

I've also spent a fair amount of time lusting after the Audi A4 3.0L. For whatever reason, I just feel like it's "me". I did test drive one of these, and loved it. Ask Wendy. It's a tad pricy for me at this poing in my life, so I'd be looking at a previously owned or leased model.

Other interests, in decreasing order of preference: The Volkswagen Passat, Acura TSX, BMW 3 series, Nissan Altima.

Should I go for the economical but boring choice, or spend the extra money on a fun car? Also, I'm open to suggestions if I'm overlooking some other wonderful automobile.