Wow, it is slim pickin's out there for anything decent. Lots of RWD cars have been turned into wannabe street racers/drifters. Lots of 'projects', lots of rust. Have not seen anything in person yet, then again, nothing worthwhile seeing. I found myself back to browsing the Boxster S and 996. Maybe I need two project cars :-0

I think the Boxster S and the 996 have been historically better taken care of by discriminating owners than the more affordable Datsun Zs, and RX7s, and at this point might be a better choice. But nothing speaks cool like an old skool Z with a raspy exhaust.

For anybody who feels up to it, a guy I know has about 20 old Z cars. Some are even half decent.

https://www.mecum.com/lot-detail.cfm?lot_id=FL0115-201399
Been keeping an eye on the Mecum Auction.These Boxters look very nice for the $$
Dave

This week is a Blood Bath, some really nice cars are going very, very cheap:eek: http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1421957452.jpg

How about an Alfa? Saw a GTV in the back of this months SCCA mag for $5500. It says, rustfree California car, but who knows.

How tall are you? A Miata is pretty tough to beat for RWD and engaging handling.

Miata Speed
 

I bought myself an 05' Miataspeed. With basic bolt on parts they are supposed to get up to about 240RWHP. In stock form its a nice looking and handling roadster in my eyes. When the turbo kicks in she gets up and goes

Flyin' Miata : Engine/Drivetrain : Upgrades for Mazdaspeed : The Little Enchilada

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1421959126.jpg

Early 924 would be my pick. I love the purity of design and simplicity.

http://2-photos2.ebizautos.com/4013/...3022514_90.jpg
http://2-photos2.ebizautos.com/4013/...13022514_6.jpg
http://1-photos2.ebizautos.com/4013/...3022514_57.jpg
http://2-photos2.ebizautos.com/4013/...3022514_78.jpg
http://4-photos2.ebizautos.com/4013/...3022514_76.jpg



I drove an '88 RX-7 during college, it was a neat car, finding one without rust will be difficult. Apex seals are prone to failure which constitute overhauling the motor. Otherwise they're fairly reliable and rustic cars. Ditto for the early Z.

I am actually digging the 924. Love the seats!

I drive a MazdaSpeed3, not sure I want a Miata. I cannot get the 'two guys in the Miata' pics out of my head :--)

Wow that 924 is only 5K......and only ~100 HP......bummer.

Wow, no one mentioned a 944? Not even a well set up one? I know it has become a bit of a cliche but it does seem to fit what you're looking for, fairly well.

Another option I didn't see much are the E30/36/46 3ers. E36 M3's can be had for VERY reasonable prices. The E46 I'm DD'ing has been easily DIYable as well.

More ideas:

Second generation DSM (Mitsu Eclipse and Eagle Talon). Hard to find unmolested ones, but they can be great fun. The second gens handle better than the first gens.

I saw someone mention 240SXs. A lot of these have been turned into drift wrecks. I'd be very particular about which one you look at.