Sunday Snapshot - New(er) Car

As I mentioned in my post here, I need a new car. My 1996 Infiniti I30 served me well for 5 years and over 40,000 miles. (it had 107,000 miles total) Unfortunately, living near the ocean and not being able to fit the car in the garage (in addition to the Suburban, 6 bicycles, 4 scooters, a lawn mower, lots of sports equipment, lawn chairs, tools (like band saw, table saw, etc), the rust was taking it's toll.

I had already fixed a leak once (to the tune of $400) and was looking at at least $300 more which I wasn't totally convinced would solve the leak. With other large rust spots, a significant dent, and other problems, I had finally been convinced by my dad and CP to buy a new(er) car. So, I began the hunt.

You see, I research things to death... I knew that a newer I30 was recommended by Consumer Reports as a very reliable car, but I wasn't having much luck finding an older model with less than 100,000 miles and under $8000 (I really wanted to spend under $6000). What I discovered, during my search, is that used cars are selling for a premium right now. Despite what some economists will tell you, the laws of supply and demand are still hard at work. The used car supply is limited as a result of the "Cash for Clunkers" program (lower supply) and no one buying a new car in this economy (higher demand). As a result, used car prices are HIGH!!!

I kept looking and finally decided to widen my search area. I suddenly found a significant supply of vehicles that fit my criteria between 2 and 4 hours from my house. So, after narrowing it down to about 3 cars, CP and I went for a drive yesterday. We test drove the first car (a G20 for $5000) and liked it - I rated it about a 7 out of 10. Then we test drove the second car (an I30 listed online for $6888 but the STICKER PRICE was $9999 OMG!) I liked it better and told CP it was a 9 out of 10. I told him that if the dealer would sell it to me out the door for $7000, I would take it. Long story short, after getting up to walk out once, the dealer agreed as long as he could have my car in trade (LOL!!!!!!)

So, without further adieu, here is my "new"(er) car

A 2001 Infiniti I30 with 79000 miles on it

with a sunroof! (every car I considered had one)

a great view from the rear

They'll really be driving before I know it!!

AND driving ME crazy!!