Over the course of the last month, I got to drive two econobox rentals: an '07 Nissan Sentra and an '07 KIA Spectra. Not sure whether it was because both were relatively new (little used and abused) or just that economy cars are nicer nowadays, but I actually liked them. My current point of reference is of course my E39, and while I like the combination of comfort and performance that it offers, sometimes I wish it was a few hundred pounds lighter, more agile, had better turning radius, and got a few more mpg.
I was most impressed with the Sentra - its nimble and precise handling, relatively good stability at high speeds, and nicely shifting CVT. I used to have the previous generation Sentra ('03) as a company car and didn't like it at all. This new Sentra is much improved in just about every aspect, including interior design and fit and finish. The exterior - well, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so there's no point arguing about it.
The Spectra is a bit noisier and feels slower (despite also having a 2 liter engine like the Sentra), but it seems like a nice car, too. I'm sure it'd be more peppy with a stick shift. Whether it would make a good used car or last a long time without developing annoying rattles/NVH, I have no idea. This one has under 10K miles on the odo.
So, anyway, I am not ready to trade in my E39 just yet, but there is a part in me that is thinking a smaller commuter car with proper engine/tranny combo could be fun to drive, too.
Anyway, just thought I'd share.
FYI, I also had a Dodge Charger as a rental for a few days. The thing handled like a boat, just like I had expected it to. But that's a subject for a whole other thread...
I was most impressed with the Sentra - its nimble and precise handling, relatively good stability at high speeds, and nicely shifting CVT. I used to have the previous generation Sentra ('03) as a company car and didn't like it at all. This new Sentra is much improved in just about every aspect, including interior design and fit and finish. The exterior - well, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so there's no point arguing about it.
The Spectra is a bit noisier and feels slower (despite also having a 2 liter engine like the Sentra), but it seems like a nice car, too. I'm sure it'd be more peppy with a stick shift. Whether it would make a good used car or last a long time without developing annoying rattles/NVH, I have no idea. This one has under 10K miles on the odo.
So, anyway, I am not ready to trade in my E39 just yet, but there is a part in me that is thinking a smaller commuter car with proper engine/tranny combo could be fun to drive, too.
Anyway, just thought I'd share.
FYI, I also had a Dodge Charger as a rental for a few days. The thing handled like a boat, just like I had expected it to. But that's a subject for a whole other thread...
