This is off topic, but I would appreciate your collective wisdom.

Ready to place my Cayman S order this week, and my primary car (1998 M3 4 door/5 speed) suddenly has major mechanical failure. I have to replace it now, and put off the Cayman. I ride about 400 miles a week, would prefer awd or 4wd, and need a car that has speed and handling.

Drove the Cayenne S today. Impressive. Doesn't feel like an SUV. But only comes in automatic. Still, that would be OK. At least it sort of rhymes with Cayman S.

Driving the S4 and the 530xi tomorrow.

Any thoughts on these cars or other suggestions would be appreciated.

I am really disappointed by this. However, it has been a pleasure following the threads on this site. I hope you all enjoy your Caymans, and maybe I can join you in 2-3 years. Who knows what the specs will be by then!

So, why not a Cayman S right now?we would be happy to locate one that you could purchase. You could use a loaner or a rental, if needed, for a couple of days. My BMW dealer , however, just sent me an e-mail indicating that they have three 2005 M3 convertibles available at thousands of dollars off sticker. I can forward that e-mail if you are interested.

Edited by - mpollard on 01/28/2006 7:31:49 PM

The problem is I have two teenage kids to transport regularly, and with the M3 gone, I really need an everyday car. I have thought about a new M3 (one kid can jump in the back), but in New York it probably is a good idea to have one awd vehicle. But I did put all seasons on my M3, and it handeld well in the snow since. Maybe a new M3 is the answer.

If you like Cayenne, and it meets your needs, then now should be a good time to get one. Sales have been slow, so the dealer should be open to your low offer, plus selection should be good. How is the gas mileage?

Gas mileage is lousy (14/18). Luckily I do mostly highway driving. And yes, the dealer is offering good discounts.

Allan, The Cayenne is a great vehicle. You will be glad you have a Porsche.

I am leaning towards the Cayenne. It would be my first Porsche. The S4 does look good on paper, though.

<div>Going from a 98 M3 to an S4 you will feel a BIG difference. I would say a new M3 is far more fun to drive than the S4 however the S4 is AWD, 4doors and has a bunch of power. If you don't want an SUV then I would say the S4, the 530 will seem big and bloated and not fast compared to the S4. </div>
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<div>Good luck.</div>

If you are considering an Audi, then I might steer you back to a BMW. Audi's still don't have the telepathic steering that a Porsche or BMW does. If it is straight line performance you are after, then you might also consider an M-B C55.







Edited by - mpollard on 01/28/2006 8:30:25 PM

I had never considered an MB. Maybe I'll take a look. I have had a number of Audis and BMWs over the years, and have always enjoyed the BMWs best. I also like their motorcycles (I've had a couple of those.) My favorite Audi was the old V8 Quattro. It took a while to get up to speed, but once it did, it ran on rails even at 100+ for extended periods.

Flyer-

Thanks. I was afraid the 530 would seem a little too big. The Cayenne S was bigger than I am used too, but handled beautifully. Unlike the Cayman S which I had to keep below 4000 RPM when I test drove it (and even then was great), the dealer told me to floor the Cayenne S, which I did, on a nice winding road. Even though the engine was in front, it had a great sound. My girlfriend was sitting in the backseat, and I heard her gasp for air a few times. I think that was a good sign.

http://autos.yahoo.com/newcars/merce...mp;reviewnum=2


http://www.mph-online.com/mag/spins/6







Edited by - mpollard on 01/28/2006 9:16:06 PM

The BMW 3 seris has AWD available, even as a wagon.

CP

Nice review. I think I'll add it to my test ride list. Thanks.

CP-

My ex has the 3 series AWD. Cars are too personal to me to have the same one as her.

If I lived in NY and have 2 kids to tool around, I'd seriousely consider the Subaru WRX Sports Wagon. It is no slouch in the perfromance area as well.

Rally-tested engine/tranny, AWD, lots of room, cheap enoug