Looking to Buy a Brand New Car (~ $80,000) - Recommendations?

Uni graduate soon (21), will be entering Westpac as an Investment Analyst.

Private use, travels around 13K a year. Most of the time My girlfriend and i in the car.

Only considers SUV, Coupe or Sedan.

Not looking for a performance car but can't be underpowered.

Priority in decending order LOOK>Quality>Comfort>Performance>Technology>Resell>Safety

Currently considering MB GLC Coupe>C class coupe> CLA/ AudiS3.

EDIT: CX3 wasn't mine to begin with. It's more like a family car where I did the majority of driving but ultimately my mom bought it for my sister.

Camry was already sold.

closed Comments

  • +3

    A 1960s Mustang (for example http://www.carsales.com.au/private/details/Ford-Mustang-1968…).

    Looks great, sounds great, will actually increase in value over time. Plus nothing says class like owning a car twice as old as you are.

  • Buy a new shape 2015 camry and invest the other 65k

  • Fresh graduate that want's to drop $80k on a car…….. They don't make graduates like they use to.

  • -1

    I will refrain from the financial advise

    If I were to spend $45k + I'd get a Tesla Model 3.

  • +4

    Time to weigh in…

    OK…so $80k huh…I'll tell you what to get that will fit all the criteria AND even make money.

    R34 GTR V Spec 2. You might just get one for that price.

    Having owned a VS1 before I can tell you right now that it'll be an appreciating asset, it's fast, it'll even impress your gf.

    If you're into Euro trash, then an E30 M3.

    Done :)

    • You won't get an E30 M3 south of 100k, aside from the fact that there's only two for sale in Australia at this moment.

      • might have missed the boat then. A friend of mine bought a mint LHD M3 for $38k about 2 years ago.

        So really, if you look they're there or you just missed the boat.

        Point is, if you get a proper future classic it will at the very least keep value.

    • you've got the right idea, except 80k won't get you a decent non R Grade V-Spec II anymore, they're going up FAST!!!

      80k budget in Japan + landed and complied gets you:
      R34 GTR (series 1) around 40-60k km
      R34 GTR (series 2) around 50-70k km
      R34 GTR V-Spec around 100k km

      here's a crazy one…
      R34 Millennium Jade V-Spec 2 with 338,000km sold for $112,000 landed and complied

      http://prestigemotorsport.com.au/past-auction-sales/

  • Save up a bit more and get a merc c63 amg or at least that's my dream.

  • +1

    if you like something that's out there and want to feel the road, look into Lotus.
    or spend $40k on a mazda mx-5 and spend the other $40k on cocaine and hookers ;)

  • So many choices, here are my top picks:

    New A5 - the 2016 model looks amazing

    But if I were you and spending $80k, I would go all out on a facelift A7, one of the best looking cars around - http://www.carsales.com.au/private/details/Audi-A7-2015/SSE-…

    C300 coupe - new shape (never existed before 2016), rare, looks to die for
    http://www.carsales.com.au/dealer/details/Mercedes-Benz-C300…
    Try the C43 coupe if you want a more aggressive look, and more performance

    435i - http://www.carsales.com.au/dealer/details/BMW-435i-2015/OAG-…

    Go exotic - 2006 Aston Martin V8 Vantage
    http://www.carsales.com.au/private/details/Aston-Martin-V8-2…

  • +1

    first of all youre in ozbargain forum, second "look more than comfort and quality" ?????? get the (profanity) out and stop trolling

  • +2

    Falcon on gas

  • +1

    There is so many replies that OP, you have probably given up reading them already.
    If you have the money and can afford to drop that much on a car, go for your life!!
    As a almost University graduate myself, I am too looking forward to some of the luxuries that come along with a good paying corporate job.

    Your first mistake was asking for suggestions on a website that is aimed strictly at people who are either looking for a bargain or are serious tight-arses and will do anything to not pay full price, most of these guys wouldn't ever even think about spending half that amount on a car.
    I would suggest looking for an Australian forum that specializes in cars and whatnot, and has people that are passionate about the subject.

    Good luck, Enjoy your new ride no matter what you end up getting!!

    • -1

      I guess I'll get more hate if I become a fund manager in the future. All the best for you too!

      • Not if you become a fund manager

        But as a new hire…

        You also did ask where to put money earlier…

  • have you considered the SQ5 Diesel Turbo?. It ticks all the requirements you've mentioned

    • I did. However I think GLC coupe looks better with the new rear redesign, I assume more comfortable but less powerful - something I don't care too much about.

  • -1

    Since you seem to value looks over functionality, an Alfa Romeo 4C would suit you perfectly.

    • I might have a look. Any experience on haggling with Alfa? How much off would they normally do for a car at this price range.

  • Don't spend $80k on a car. Just don't.

  • You could do what this guy did, and get a decent BMW https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f8pPzEReJsw

  • Wow at this thread
    Too much money to burn it seems

  • +1

    How are people falling for this..?

  • gearknob

  • Get a Mercedes A45, picked one up last week and its just amazing.

    • It's hatch if I'm not wrong. Comfort is an issue. I do think it's really spotty and agile.

      • Yes it is a hatch.
        Would also consider the BMW 330i - not as stylish but better performance and driving experience.

    • Merc A45 is fast but … suspension in the A class seems a bit too stiff? I test drove the A250 and that's what I found
      [I tested the CLA45 … wish I could also try the A45]
      didn't buy a merc at the end - I found that there's not too many places in town that I can floor on the accelerator. :(

  • +4

    I hope for your sake no one from Westpac reads this. This has done some pretty bad advertising for them. You'd better hope that you still have your job waiting for you. Next time perhaps don't mention the company you work for.

    • it defiantly doesnt paint a good picture of him.

    • -4

      I think Dominos employees read this and thats it.

      • +2

        you just keep digging my friend

  • +1

    I entered this thread for the lulz, and it has definitely delivered.

  • -1

    Well I'm kind of in the same boat as you OP. Graduated from uni last year and have started working full time this year with a stable job. Have saved up over the last 3 years and have wanted a new car for myself the last 3.5 years. I’m actually buying a new WRX for about 50k in a fortnight. My budget was 20-25k but I thought I needed to treat myself for all the hard work as you’ve stated.

    At 80K though, I think that’s a pretty big leap, but as long as it makes you happy. People are going to have their opinions, good and bad but it’s your choice. I think you should try checking the wrx or mustang (I may still get this, bloody awesome car).

    Let us know what you decide on :)

    • I think they're more toward performance car? Interior is really not up to MB and comfort is a huge issue.

  • LOOKS
    Lexus RC350 (~$70,000)
    Nissan 370z (~$65,000)

    QUALITY
    Audi TT S-Line (~$75,000)
    BMW M235i (~$75,000)
    MB CLA250 (~$75,000)

    I'd also consider getting a cheap and fuel efficient daily car like a Civic or Camry.

    • I am keen on the new Lexus LC sports. Probably out of my budget though.

      • Yeah you'll probably need to double your budget.

        Having driven most of those cars, they're all great in their own right, but it'll be down to how the car makes you feel and how you like to drive it.

        I do feel that the Audi is the clear winner because it's exciting to drive, looks great, and the cockpit and dash is far more advanced than the other luxury brands i mentioned.

        Good luck!

  • Have you considered leasing your new pride and joy?

  • That smashed avocado on toast looked pretty nice the other day.

    I'm sure your ego must be sky-high right now, but don't be too cocky kid ;)

  • +2

    Really wish you would use the money for a deposit on a house, doesn't matter what car you drive, it just gets you to A-B and quickly loses value and wont make you any happier.

    • Thanks for the advice, but i think i know where i am going and how to get there. Right now, i want to buy a new car.

    • +2

      Naw, let him go for it, someday we will need the serfs for our property investments. He and his children and grandchildren will be feeding ours for eons.

  • +1

    Personally,I think you're crazy to buy an expensive car at this stage of your life, but each to its own.

    A lot of the premium brand cars offer corporate program discounts on their cars if you work for a top ASX company (like Westpac), as well as free 3 years servicing and road side assistance (eg Mercedes).

    • Thanks for the information, didn't know that.

    • Westpac used to offer corporate leased cars as a package benefit for grad recruits. If still so, "could" make a better option.

  • Lol. Commented earlier in the thread.

    Come back couple of days later and it's full of hate.

    Why people why!!! Just suggest a car for the guy asking the question.

  • +2

    Bet the OP wasn't expecting such backlash.

    • -2

      I am training myself for the day when i get to be a fund manager. Probably gets more hate.

  • +1

    OP just wanted to brag about his new job & girlfriend - good for you OP, hope it all goes well :)

  • -7

    So OP has worked hard and saved some money. He's made a decision about what he wants to do with it. People bagging him out because he wants to buy a depreciating asset? Why? I'm sure he knows it's a depreciating asset. He's not buying it as an investment, he's buying it for fun. If anything, being able to such a luxury shows that he's hard working, and put in some effort to get what he wants. If he's relying on investments he's made, then he sounds like a good investor.

    I suggest you check out the Audi A4. They have decent power, especially if you get an A4 quattro. Interior is great, but they can start getting a little pricey when you add options. If you can haggle, you could get one for around $80k with some decent options. If you like longer tips, I'd consider the wagon, which has a nice panoramic sunroof (keep in mind they can get a bit warm because there's so much glass). Petrol will be quicker off the mark the diesel, but you will save money on the diesel in the long run.

    Another option, if you do want to save a bit of money is a VW Passat 206 TSI. Lots of features, and the only option is a sunroof. Has decent power, and lots of tech, if that's part of what you're looking for. You should be able to get it on the road for about $65k - $70k with a sunroof.

    Lastly, you may want to wait until you start at Westpac, as you will likely be able to get some corporate discounts (you'll just need a letter from Westpac stating you're an employee, which HR will give you). With Audi, you should be able to get free servicing for three years. With VW you get reduced dealer delivery or some soft of discount, so haggle, then see if you can get a bit more a discount stacked on top of that.

    In terms of comfort, I think the Merc C-class is the most comfortable, but you get cooler tech in the Audi. BMW was meh when I looked at them. Small, not great tech, and expensive when optioned. :)

    • +9

      Not when he says its an investment with high yield but okay 😂

      • -4

        I also mentioned yield as in non monetary gains. However, i don't think people like you want to know the whole content before judging.

        • +1

          By people like me you mean 99% of ozbargain besides you lol you're 21 stop being a hero

        • -2

          @jno: I think that explains the flames from 99% of you.

    • +1

      Did you even read the OP???
      He said the car has a "high investment yield"

      • I can't see "high investment yield" in his opening. He must have edited it.

        • +1

          See first page, a few comments down with ~240 neg votes

    • Thanks so much, no one mentions VW sedans actually, the Passat isn't sporty but do look like a big boss car. I think there are definitely some benefit i am entitled to from Westpac, and people still flame on me for posting up where i am going work as sees it as a show off.

      • The 206 TSI is a bit sporty, inside and out. This one literally just came out. :)

      • the VW EOS is absolutely lovely. I had that prior to my current car. It's not as smooth as an MB to drive but it's definitely a good looking car.

        Edit: just realised it's not in production anymore.

  • Hey Mate some people don't understand the want/need of a brand new luxury car (I just bought myself a brand new BMW M3 at age 25). There are some pretty damn good cars you can get for that price range:

    Audi RS3
    BMW 340i/440i
    BMW M240i
    Mercedes A45
    Jaguar XE
    VW Golf R

    Also go to 3-4 different dealers and get quotes then drive them all down to meet, if you live in Sydney I can get awesome prices on BMW/MB/Audi know a lot of General Managers in the dealership. Let me know what you decide.

  • +3

    needing a brand new luxury car versus wanting one are two different questions altogether.

    here is where the context plays a massive part in it.

    wanting a luxury car and you are earning a decent income and you saved up for it. hey. why not.

    needing a luxury car and you are a top earner and you just don't know what to do with your money. again. why not.

    wanting one because you feel the need to impress people you dont like by buying things with money you dont have. there is something inherently wrong there.

    before anyone says we should let people learn from their mistakes. why not learn from the mistakes that people have already made. shall we wait for people to keep sticking their hand in a bonfire so they will learn first hand that fire can burn you. or will they not just learn that from people who played with fire instead.

    tl;dr

    dont buy things to impress people you don't like with money you dont have.

    • +1

      Mate totally agree with your comments especially about buying things to impress others. The main reasons I spent so much on a luxury/sports car was my love for cars and every fortnight I take the car on track (give me sanity). In my case it was a want;for the race track, and need; as part of my job dealing with foreign investors especially the Chinese all about face value (helps I can write car off on tax). Don't spend money you don't have to live a lifestyle you can't afford !!!

    • -4

      I have what it takes to get what i want.

      • +2

        having the cold hard cash to pay for a car and little bit extra on top to maintain it is far different from having the earning potential to keep up with repayments.

        if you dont get the difference.

        picture this in your head. one accident or you get sick rendering you unable to work. then your earning potential could go from stellar to non existent in an instant.

        not wishing anyone anything bad to happen. just going by what has happened to other people.

  • +1

    I have 80 dollar. What should I get ?

    • +2

      a fleet of hot-wheels cars? I hear their resale value is worth big $$$, especially its one of those exotics ;)

    • Get a toy car from AutoArt :)

      • can i drive it to westpac?

  • +1

    I don't know if anybody has suggested you this , but if you are planning to make this kind of investment I'll suggest Tesla

  • +1

    Too early to be trolled… But thanks for the lol

  • Hi, too much to read and not sure if you know this.

    Since you are working for Westpac, you will be qualified for 3 years free schedule serving as part of the Corporate program with MB. It only applies to new cars only.

    This will reduce your running costs by quite a bit, basically free for first 3 years. All you have to worry about is insurance, petrol, tyre, etc.

    Good luck with your purchase, you will enjoy it.

    • +2

      I didn't know that. Thanks for the information. I think revealing where i am going to work does help.

  • +7

    this guy is a master baiter, can't believe so many retards fell for his obvious troll post

    • Yep….. well played to him though. 10/10 effective troll.

    • I cant believe the people falling for it and wasting there time trying to give him useful advice.

  • I'm going to suggest something different, just because I've seen them on the road and think they look badass: Volvo XC90. Such a mean looking front end, under 90K apparently.

    In the end it's the OP's money. Personally, I would like my finance advisor to drive a nice car, after all, that shows that he is successful in his deals if he can afford that kind of car. The problem lies with your age and position. As a graduate and 21 year old, its more likely people are going to see you as a spolied kid who doesn't pay any rent and saves up 100% of income due to mum and dad paying every bill. So in the end, such an expensive car at 21 might be detrimental to your success. I'd wait a couple of years until you've actually received commissions for acheiving goals before rewarding yourself. Landing the job is tricky, sure, so treat yourself. Only time will say if you actually are successful in finance.

    Either way, good luck to you, I hope you turn out more successful than the impression you left on that forum (if that's any indication on how clients are likely to perceive you).

    • -2

      Don't worry, i don't see any of them as my potential clients. Maybe Domino's.

  • +3

    Get yourself a new gf while you are at it based on LOOK>Quality>Comfort>Performance

    • -2

      Tell me appearance wasn't your first priority in a girl at some point.

      • OK I'm calling it nobody could be this consistently thick and clueless at your age. For sure this is a prank or social experiment.

  • Audi A5. You won't regret it.

  • hell why dont you buy a ferrari 458 while your at it ? you sound like you can afford it. Great investment with high yeild as brand new cars usually are lol, and your girlfriend is sure to stay with you because of it. OH your collegues at the bank are sure to love it as well! its a win win

    • Using a ferrari as a everyday car sounds like a disaster waiting to happen.

  • -1

    Why are Australians on this site such Tall Poppy cockheads?

    The University I went to (University of Sydney) had 19 year old little shits in $100k-$300k Mercs and BMWs. It's not that uncommon. Many of them still had their P plates on. lol

    I have no idea why this OP feels the need to ask a bargain forum about $80k cars. He's better suited to going to places like whirlpool that has a lot of middle-class people who don't necessarily care about bargains.

    • +1

      The next step planned was to ask for advice on bringing the price to the minimum. I do care about getting the same product at a lower price.

    • +1

      You are absolutely right, the average salary of whirlpool members is a modest 200K+ … Much better suited to ask there!

    • +2

      Bargains aren't just about price, they're about value.

      • +1

        True, but products in that price range aren't exactly a hot topic of discussion on Ozbargain.

    • Gotta agree with you on this. There's a possibility that OP wasnt taking the piss and really wants to setup an image (whether or not we agree it's an effective method). Yeah its a given that its a depreciating asset and he was off on that aspect but all the attacks wagered at this guys question do seem out of line when you weigh it up.

  • Just get the one with the best Look. You know, look is very subjective so it's kind of pointless to ask for recommendations.

    • -2

      Look is subjective, but really rarely going on different directions even on a large sample size.

  • Ford Mustang Eco boost Performance also Fuel Saving economy

  • +5

    I think we're being trolled.

    Looks first, safety last, 21 yo with $80k and on Ozbargain looking for advice…works in finance but calls a car an investment!?!?!?

    Oh and "I hope in some stage of my life where I fail, I don't like smooth sailing life, that's why I chose finance and I find it suits my personality."

    Nup doesn't add up. Probably money to be made, on a bet about how gullible Ozbargainers are.

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