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17 years ago when I first landed a job, I was thinking to buy a Jeep Wrangler. Finally settled for 5 speed Prelude. I really enjoyed my Prelude but had to sell when I had to fit in kids' car seats.
Now I need to replace my current car. I wont hesitate to buy another Prelude if Honda still carry it.
I am again consider a Jeep. But I live in the middle of Texas (Austin), and I am not sure about the chance of being off road.
As for SLK, I am a middle aged engineer, that might be too flashy for me?
Cannot go with Miata, still need 4 seats. And Mustang might be too young for me.
The SLK only has two seats. Are you thinking of the CLK?
I'd get the Wrangler if that is really what you want. Who cares about off-road? 90% of Wranglers aren't used off-road. It is still a great vehicle to cruise around town with the top off and the kids in the back. Of course, with summers in Austin you may have the top on with the A/C cranked more often than not.
And Mustangs are for all ages. But, if you're worried about demographics, go between the Mustang and Mercedes with a BMW convertible.
You mention a Jeep, 2 seater Benz, mustang, and miata all in the same post.
Do you still need to haul kids? If so then you obviously need a back seat. No kids over the age of 12 would like riding in the back seat for an extended period. I have had one.
Also, I have had two wranglers, both a two door and four door. What are you looking for? What's your price range?
Lastly, I live in Texas, so there's plenty of tips to be given regarding Jeeps in Texas and the heat.
Answer those questions and we can be of more help. If the mercedes CLK is in your price range, I'd do that if you can get a good warranty. Would probably stay away from Mercedes otherwise. Don't count out the Toyota FJ Cruiser either. I like that the Jeeps have a removable top but the FJ will be a bit more quiet and practical.
What's your price range? New or used? Coupe or sedan?
Also, MB doesn't make CLKs anymore, they've been discontinued since '09 (I think). Did you mean an E- or C- class? A new Jeep Wrangler Unlimited (4- seater) is a very nice vehicle and definitely more affordable than a new-ish E or C class.
If you need the space for children, I am not going to recommend a Jeep as I would never put a child in a Wrangler. The Mercedes is a good bet, but if you want a less flashy vehicle, the Volvo C70 is an excellent consideration as well. A 3-series is also a good choice, albeit small for needing four seats, so I might be inclined to look at the Volvo over the Merc because you want a convertible that does not have brand associations with it as Mercedes and BMW tend to do more than a Volvo. And, performance is not bad in the Volvo, either, so it might be worth adding to your shopping list. Personally, I buy what I like and don't worry about perceptions, since you need to buy the car that gives you enjoyment, but the Jeeps are still lacking in the safety department when considering it as a primary family vehicle.
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All the world's a stage, and all the men and women merely players: they have their exits and their entrances; and one man in his time plays many parts, his acts being seven ages.
~William Shakespeare (As You Like It Act II, Scene VII)
you need to evaluate what you actually want... an off-roader with some top off capability or a sporty roadster with absolutely no chance of going off road?
Not certain about the newer Jeep Wranglers but I have an '86 CJ-7 and it is one super-tough vehicle.
Also, they are fun to drive plus a great value if you plan to keep them for awhile. Not only do Jeeps have a "Cult Following" but they hold their value Big Time with just a little TLC. Mine is worth at least 3 times the original sticker price.
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