Thinking of getting something cheaper..

Skorch

So I've come to realize that my Z is the most expensive thing in my life. I'm not saving much money with it, because the payments + insurance + gas easily put it over $1000/mo for me. Having owned a 350Z and this being my second 370Z, I've come to love the car quite a bit. But I think it's time to get something cheap and a little more practical. My thinking is a Lexus IS300 and here is why. My buddy is a mechanic at Toyota, and used to be a mechanic at a Lexus dealership prior to that. He knows the car inside and out, and he said it is very reliable, being one of the least common cars to be brought in for service when he worked there. Also, he can help me look for one in good shape and should I need to repair it, he can order parts at dealer cost for me.

The thing is, I don't know that much about these cars.. I've always liked the way they looked and know they have the same engine as the N/A Supras, so they should be pretty reliable. Does anyone here have any experience with them? Would you recommend the IS300 as a daily driver, considering they are 8-12 years old now?

I would like to find something for $13K or less. Do you guys have any other suggestions for cars to consider? I don't think I want a coupe anymore, and I'd like it to have semi-decent fuel economy. Thanks for all your input in advance!

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'12 370Z + Sport | Stillen Gen3 Intakes | Stillen UD Pulley | Motordyne M370 | FI Exhaust | FI HFCs | 4.08 Gears | Uprev tuned