[Don Plumley]

Interesting comment about GM cars. I don't have any problem keeping up with the maintenance and doing the repairs. My son and I refurbed his E30 and he just bought a nify E46 to replace it.

But purchasing a used car, I am always worried about the maintenance habits of the prior owners - and many times the "cute" cars are not well maintained.

The build quality of the late year VW's is a little worrisome. I like the Golf hatch, but I guess if I agree to a Golf there's no good argument against the beetle. Thanks for the insights Tim.

Any other ideas? Mazda 3 Hatch?