I started a thread on the main Crossfire forum -- titled Snowbirds? -- where I'd enquired about whether or not these gorgeous beasts could survive on/in the white stuff. Based on feedback, by take is that, no (boo!), the XF is not a happy camper when it falls thick 'n deep. SO... now I need to start thinking about a new car -- my only car, says my checkbook -- that will thrive in rural upstate NY. A Porsche 911 4wd is not in the budget, nor are any of the less pricey Audi options. So, what are my FWD or AWD options, those with some semblance of sporting spirit? Let me start with a list:

FWD:
Mazda 3 5-door
Honda Civic Si Coupe
Volkswagen GTi
Saab 9-3 (they're dealing these days)
Volvo S40 (same platform as Mazda 3)
Mini Cooper S

AWD:
Subaru WRX
Subaru Legacy 2.5 GT turbo
Mazdaspeed 6
Volvo S40
Mitsubishi Lancer EVO

Additions, deletions, comments?

 

If I had 20-24K to spend it would be an '05 Deville. Great in snow. If I had 10-18k to spend it would be a 2000-2004 Deville. I've had them and for that matter any FWD Caddy can handle Upstate snow of up to 120" annually that we get here in UPSTATE NY. Have been taking those rides down the Thruway for years.

 

My suggestion would be...Save up (as much as you can) and go ahead and get the crossfire next spring when its "drivable". For now, get yourself a used 4wd/AWD vehicle capable of handling the snow...Perhaps a 95' Gimmie 4x4 for around 3k or something like that?? Etc...That's what I would do.

 

If your looking to spend 30k buy a '94 - '96 Jeep Grand Cherokee AWD and a Crossfire.

 

buy a EVO... have your fun on a daily basis... crossfires are for people that like trophies, it looks nice in the garage... i drive it once in a while... otherwise, i take that beater out...

 

I enjoy the heck out of mine, no trailer queen here. I do not beat on it and 99% of my miles are highway miles cruising at 78 MPH. Even at that speed I average 28.1 MPG. Better mileage than any of the other cars I own.