sports cars

Would like advice on convertibles, I prefer big engines with plenty torque, hate revvy buzz boxes. The choices seem limited to 3.0 Z4, 3.5 SLK, 3.2 TT or 2.7/3.2 Boxter.

Boxter worries me regarding cost of any maintenance or repairs, should this be a real concern?.

I drove a TT but found steering heavy and dead - also seemed to want to straighten wheels on bends, had to fight this tendency. Is this typical of the TT?

I like the SLK, maitainence and repairs, same worries as Boxter. I prefer a manual is this an issue with the SLK?

Finally the Z4 - used to have a 3.0 Z3 but found the handling odd, tram lined a lot. Notice you have the Z4 with only 2 stars, is it that bad?

So which would you recommend, or do you have any other cars in mind?

Thanks.

Asked on 12 July 2013 by Mikecorrado

Answered by Honest John
From the dates you give you are talking 2nd hand. Obviously the Boxster is the best driver's car, but also the greatest risk for high cost repairs. The Z4 of this period did not have good steering (early EPAS: no feel) but the coupe looks fantastic. The SLK is quick, but a bit of a handful to drive quickly. I like the TTRS 2.5, especially on a track. Wonderful engine. It was very good indeed on Estoril: better than an R8, but keen drivers rate it below a Boxster on the road. The TT roadster is noisy top up or top down, not great to drive at speed with the top down. I'd add the Nissan 350Z 300PS to your list. This one: www.honestjohn.co.uk/road-tests/nissan/nissan-350z.../ heavy on the juice, but satisfying.
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