Not as fast as some of the other rides posted here but I get there eventually
For the technically inclined those are xenon head lamps blasting D65 Kelvin!
I have a car question that I hope my fellow car / home theater enthusiast can shed some light onI have almost opted to purchase a 2012 Audi TTRSthe almost relates to fact that I am concerned that the Audi TT body style will change within the next 2 to 3 years which would bother me because I would hate to have dropped a chunk of cash and not be driving the latest and greatest for at least two to three years [think buying a new $15,000 pre / pro only to learn within 6 months time a new model will be released next year and the company will do zip to help move you to the new model]
I am interested in:
1. People's thoughts as to whether or not this is a valid concern on the basis that i) when you need new car simply buy the one that suits you best at the time of purchase and not worry about what next year will bring ii) there is always going to be something better and newer around the corner iii) teh last year of a current model is often better than the first year of a new model, etc.
2. If the Audi enthusiasts / owners have any knowledge about the Audi TT lifecycle this too would be helpful
And, in answering, the urgency here is that my lease on my current car is coming to an end and I have to make a decision within the next day or two
And, in answering, also note that I asked the local Audi about the Audi TT's lifecylce this they showed me [but did NOT give me] a copy of an e-mail from Audi Canada stating that the Audi TT would DEFINITELY NOT be changed until 2015 / 2016 at the earliest. When I asked them to put that into the lease agreement they balked and refused to stand behind Audi Canada's official written position. When they refused to stand behind Audi Canada's official position I i) lost confidence that the car would NOT be redesigned in the next two to three years [as there was no reason for them not to back Audi Canada's written position] and ii) I walked out [which surprised them to no end.
IMO, the 2012 TT-RS will be an instant classic based on it's limited production run, manual only, and significantly better specs. I would consider purchasing it and keeping it long term. It's a very stylish alternative to the M3.
If you don't want to buy and keep it long term (I have a bad habit of cycling through cars every few years too), and you're concerned with the body style changing go for a shorter lease.
Also, even if a new TT is released, it will take a few years for them to come out with the RS version, so you would still have to most current version of that trim with better performance than the TT or TT-S.
I know where you're coming from. I usually buy new after a model year refresh. But I currently have an '08 550i with M package trim and even though the new 5's are out I'm still loving my car - no regrets because it's a great car. I'd think you would feel the same about a TT-RS.
IMO, the 2012 TT-RS will be an instant classic based on it's limited production run, manual only, and significantly better specs. I would consider purchasing it and keeping it long term. It's a very stylish alternative to the M3.
If you don't want to buy and keep it long term (I have a bad habit of cycling through cars every few years too), and you're concerned with the body style changing go for a shorter lease.
+1.
I love the Audi R8. It's gorgeous and a performer. I like the looks as much or more than the Porsche. It is an instant classic! Lease if you want a newer model more often. I would've seriously considered the Audi if it was able to seat 4 (I can fit the kids in my TT-S). The Audi is also a great handler but even the 10 V10 model cannot keep up with my TT-S. I'm for speed and the TT is intoxicating in it's ability to accelerate!
I purchased my TT-S outright and plan on keeping it for some time. The new 911 (991) is a 4" longer and 2" wider. It appears most changes are cosmetic and in the interior. Performance specs are very similar to the current 997 S. Emissions are improved as well (might hurt performance).
You can't lose either way.
I bought my new TT-S knowing the model will change next year. But the 911 always looks like a 911 and in terms of performance and speed, I don't know if there is much left when this car gets to 60 MPH in 2.6 seconds and just over 10 seconds in the 1/4 mile (stock). The Audi gets to 60 MPH in 3.8 seconds and 1/4 mile in over 12 seconds. Moreover, I wasn't ready to wait another 2-3 years for the new Turbo. IF it turns out to be a world beater, then I may sell and upgrade... but I doubt that would happen.
I love the Audi R8. It's gorgeous and a performer. I like the looks as much or more than the Porsche. It is an instant classic! Lease if you want a newer model more often. I would've seriously considered the Audi if it was able to seat 4 (I can fit the kids in my TT-S). The Audi is also a great handler but even the 10 V10 model cannot keep up with my TT-S. I'm for speed and the TT is intoxicating in it's ability to accelerate!
I purchased my TT-S outright and plan on keeping it for some time. The new 911 (991) is a 4" longer and 2" wider. It appears most changes are cosmetic and in the interior. Performance specs are very similar to the current 997 S. Emissions are improved as well (might hurt performance).
You can't lose either way.
I bought my new TT-S knowing the model will change next year. But the 911 always looks like a 911 and in terms of performance and speed, I don't know if there is much left when this car gets to 60 MPH in 2.6 seconds and just over 10 seconds in the 1/4 mile (stock). The Audi gets to 60 MPH in 3.8 seconds and 1/4 mile in over 12 seconds. Moreover, I wasn't ready to wait another 2-3 years for the new Turbo. IF it turns out to be a world beater, then I may sell and upgrade... but I doubt that would happen.
Jeff:
Thanks for the feedback but I am very confused....I did not know that you owned a TT-S [i.e. should some of the above references to a TT-S be to your 911?]...I did not know that the TT-S was changing next year [i.e. I thought in two years, where does this come from or, again, should this be in reference to the 911]...
With my confusion now understood...what are your comments / suggestions...
IMO, the 2012 TT-RS will be an instant classic based on it's limited production run, manual only, and significantly better specs. I would consider purchasing it and keeping it long term. It's a very stylish alternative to the M3.
I just wished that it had launch control and the Recaro seats that the European speced versions do...
Quote:
Originally Posted by dadstv
If you don't want to buy and keep it long term (I have a bad habit of cycling through cars every few years too), and you're concerned with the body style changing go for a shorter lease.
Agreed...I am looking at a 3 year lease because i) I am concerned about a body style change and ii) this will be first time in 15+ years that I will have a sports car as a daily driver and do not know whether or not I will like this long term...
Also, even if a new TT is released, it will take a few years for them to come out with the RS version, so you would still have to most current version of that trim with better performance than the TT or TT-S.
Agreed....
Quote:
Originally Posted by dadstv
I know where you're coming from. I usually buy new after a model year refresh. But I currently have an '08 550i with M package trim and even though the new 5's are out I'm still loving my car - no regrets because it's a great car. I'd think you would feel the same about a TT-RS.
Good luck!
As far as the BMW is concerned I currently have a 2009 535i xDrive [I live in the snow] with all options including the M package so I know where you are coming from...I am moving on because my lease is up...
I will think about your comments that I may feel the same about the TTRS down the road...
Thanks for the feedback but I am very confused....I did not know that you owned a TT-S [i.e. should some of the above references to a TT-S be to your 911?]...I did not know that the TT-S was changing next year [i.e. I thought in two years, where does this come from or, again, should this be in reference to the 911]...
With my confusion now understood...what are your comments / suggestions...
With much thanks...
Hey Joel,
I have a Porsche Twin turbo S (TT-S). I bought it a few months ago - I had sold my previous '06 Carrera 4S last year. Porsche doesn't do an "S' edition until the end of the model run. The last TT-S was an 05. THe next TT-S will likely be in 2017-2018. The 997 has been an excellent model for Porsche... far better performing and holding better value than the previous 996 models. For example, the '05 TT-S did 0-60 in 4.2 sec @ 450 HP. My TT-S is 2.6 sec @530 HP. I am sure we won't see a similar jump in performance in the upcoming TT on the new platform.
The 991 looks to be a great looking car but who knows how it'll fare?
I would seriously consider the V-10 R8... or a any Porsche. You can't lose with either.
I have a Porsche Twin turbo S (TT-S). I bought it a few months ago - I had sold my previous '06 Carrera 4S last year. Porsche doesn't do an "S' edition until the end of the model run. The last TT-S was an 05. THe next TT-S will likely be in 2017-2018. The 997 has been an excellent model for Porsche... far better performing and holding better value than the previous 996 models. For example, the '05 TT-S did 0-60 in 4.2 sec @ 450 HP. My TT-S is 2.6 sec @530 HP. I am sure we won't see a similar jump in performance in the upcoming TT on the new platform.
The 991 looks to be a great looking car but who knows how it'll fare?
I would seriously consider the V-10 R8... or a any Porsche. You can't lose with either.
Jeff:
My bad and here is why...when you used the term TT-S I thought that you were referring to the Audi TT-S rather than the Porsche TTS-S...with that cleared up it all makes sense to me now...
Though as much as I would enjoy an Audi R8 that is not in the cards as I am truly looking to simplify my life and want one car which I will use as a daily driver...the Audi R8 simply is NOT practical because it has no / little storage space and just 2 seats....
With the choices were down to a BMW Z4 which was recently dismissed because it is RWD [not good in for Canadian winters] and has no storage space with the roof down...the choices are now an Audi TT-S or an Audi TT-RS [which, while not as fast as you Porsche TT-S does manage to limp from 0 to 100 kmh in 4.3 seconds] both of which have AWD and have ample storage [i.e. back seats go down and are hatch backs]...I am leaning towards the Audi TT-RS...
Those are pretty low/fast numbers did you mod your car?
Porsche's official numbers are a little tamer, but still blazing fast.
TT-S does 3.1 0-60
2.6 seconds to 60 MPH are Road and Track's numbers on a stock Turbo S with Launch Control when they reviewed it. I believe Car and Driver got a 2.8 sec run.
No mods for me at this point, but I did spend time at Porsche Driving School a couple months ago to get some class and track time to best control the beast. What fun!!
"IF it turns out to be a world beater, then I may sell and upgrade... but I doubt that would happen.
*****
My 2001 996 TT is just as much fun at it was a decade ago. A few engine mods, suspension mods, etc. and 70,000 miles on the clock.
I have a problem with buying, driving and keeping cars. Of my mish-mash of cars, 134k, 100k, 92k, 70k, and 68k miles.
Current cars: 2007 BMW 335i, 2007 911 Turbo, 2010 GMC Yukon Hybrid, 2007 Mini Cooper S....and a whole host of other type vehicles (they are my Achilles heel).
The BMW may become a 2012 M5 if it gets good reviews. If not, may end up just getting another 3 series (what great cars).
I bought the turbo used, decided it was someone else's turn to take the massive depreciation on a new sports car (took my fair share). I have not regretted it once. Porsche makes a fine car.
Current cars: 2007 BMW 335i, 2007 911 Turbo, 2010 GMC Yukon Hybrid, 2007 Mini Cooper S....and a whole host of other type vehicles (they are my Achilles heel).
The BMW may become a 2012 M5 if it gets good reviews. If not, may end up just getting another 3 series (what great cars).
I bought the turbo used, decided it was someone else's turn to take the massive depreciation on a new sports car (took my fair share). I have not regretted it once. Porsche makes a fine car.
Nice, nice cars. I hear you on the depreciation.. I did it just the opposite this time. My last car I was the 3rd owner and sold the car for only $5K less than I bought it for. This time, I paid full price. This was the car I really wanted but I know it will hurt when I sell it and see the small number I get for it!
I think the M5 is the perfect daily driver (the Audi S8 though is my dream daily driver).
My 550i might get turned into a new M5 as well. I agree, they are the perfect daily. Especially with the rumored all wheel drive on the new model (I live in NY and rwd is a little tough in the winters...)
My 550i might get turned into a new M5 as well. I agree, they are the perfect daily. Especially with the rumored all wheel drive on the new model (I live in NY and rwd is a little tough in the winters...)
I hear 'ya which is why my 2009 BMW 5 series is a 535ix because neither the 550i nor the M5 came in an x version...that said, that amount of horsepower would scare in the snow even with AWD...
Going from clockwise starting from Top left
1. Zenith Chronomaster Open XXT
2. Omega Planet Ocean 45.5 Orange Bezel (I call my swimming and cruise watch)
3. Seiko SLQ021 Official Honda F1 watch. #755/1500
4. Corum Admiral Cup Day Date 48mm
5. Rolex Datejust two tone, w/ Diamond numbers
6. Rolex Explorer 2
7. IWC UTC 2008 Antoine de Daint Exupery # 414/1188
8. IWC Power Reserve 2007 Antoine de Saint Expuery #47/1178
I'm sure those dates on the IWC's are correct, if they aren't its 2008 and 2009. I don't remember anymore.
I'll post my wife's collection sometime this week, have to go to the safety deposit box to pick up two of them that are there.
My Vehicles
1998 BMW Z3 Canadian Limited Production 30/40
2008 R8 4.2L
2007 IS250AWD - Not in pic. is my Daily Driver to work.
The Q7 is my wife's..
I hear 'ya which is why my 2009 BMW 5 series is a 535ix because neither the 550i nor the M5 came in an x version...that said, that amount of horsepower would scare in the snow even with AWD...
I hear 'ya which is why my 2009 BMW 5 series is a 535ix because neither the 550i nor the M5 came in an x version...that said, that amount of horsepower would scare in the snow even with AWD...
I missed that link... What a great looking car! I haven't seen one of those on the road here. Looks fabulous and brand new!!! Congrats.I love the TT.
What interior did you get and when do you get it?? Post pix! That car is faster to 60 MPH than the R8! You are going to love the acceleration... intoxicating... but it is addictive and your next car will be even faster (and more money)!
I missed that link... What a great looking car! I haven't seen one of those on the road here. Looks fabulous and brand new!!! Congrats.I love the TT.
What interior did you get and when do you get it?? Post pix! That car is faster to 60 MPH than the R8! You are going to love the acceleration... intoxicating... but it is addictive and your next car will be even faster (and more money)!
Great job!
Jeff:
Although not nearly as fast as your Porsche 997 Turbo S it will hopefully keep a smile on my face for a few years to come especially as I will be using as my daily driver, including in the snow...
As I spent more and more time considering my options I decided that a used Porsche 997 that would fit my needs would be CAD 80,000 + [and, before anyone asks, car are more or less 20% or more costly in Canada despite the fact that a Canadian $ is worth more than a US $]...once this became clearer I decided to look at other options because for $80,000 I wanted something that was fast, was new, was under warranty and would be a current model, few of which a 2007/2008 997 C4S would satisfy...
The next problem was that also wanted a car that was AWD [as I live in a moderately snowy climate] and was manual [yes, yes, I know DSG/PDK are faster but I am willing to give up 0.1 seconds in the rush to 60 mph for the greater driver involvement]...this led me to the Audi TT RS which, in essence was the only vehicle that fit the bill [i.e. I could find no other with this type of performance]...
The reason why you have not seen any / many of these cars is that they have just started to arrive in North America and will do so with limited allotments...there will supposedly be 300 allocated to the US and 100 allocated to Canada...this, for me is good news, as I will have a rather rare car which should maintain its value should I want to move to something else...
Yes, the car is an R8 killer [at least in terms of the V8's speed and perhaps the V10's though I have not checked this yet] and it will be interesting to see what it does to R8 sales [i.e. a friend of mine who has an R8 is not happy]...there is also lots of potential as the car has been out in Europe for 18 months and there are a number that have been remapped are are doing 0 to 60 mph is as little as 3.5 seconds...and, you are probably correct that I will want more of a rush [i.e. read speed] but this may be my limit in terms of cost as cars do nothing but depreciate and, at least to me, this is quite the bang for the buck...aaaaahhh, of course, there is my 50th birthday in a few years time so, then again, who knows...
With any luck the car should arrive in late October / early November as mine was ordered directly from the factory [I am NOT a rear wing person so I deleted the fixed wing in favour of the automatic / retractable rear spoiler] with a Phantom Black exterior and black interior [due to the limited allotment the interior only comes in black]...pictures will follow and hopefully there will not be too much snow at that point though I will be putting on winter rubber...
I see others have posted photography and MTB riding, here's some of mine:
My user name, "mtbdudex", is from my old-old AOL account name in the mid 1990's when I raced MTB bikes 1995-2000, did National races 1997-1998.
Did the tri-thing 1999-2001, multi-sport races 2001-2002.
My best finish MTB racing, 3rd Place NORBA Nationals 1998 (yea, a few years ago).
Here's my "last" national level race, the 1999 Cactus Cup.
A few lbs lighter back then, no wife/kids, just riding 4-5 days week, racing every weekend....
for a laugh....after 1 year....I'm sure no one here has driven their car into the garage with bikes on top, a $800 lesson...
The first lady of MTB riding back in my days....she knew how to market her image very well....
My 15 minutes of astrophotography fame was recent, NASA Astronomy Picture of the Day for August 5, 2011.
Our loghome, startrails, fireflies, and a rising moon....
Discussion and how this was taken here, http://asterisk.apod.com/viewtopic.p...art=25#p155040
Made a timelapse video also of the 370+ frames, that is the rising moon reflection you see in the garage windows.....
this star trail video timelapse is using the cumulative image saving feature in StarStaX. The cumulative stacking then timelapse gives a different effect/feeling than a std timelapse.
Mike, what are your thoughts on the progress of mountain bikes? Do you think they're any better than 10 years ago? I guess maybe weight and grip is the real sign of progress. Are racers faster today than they were when you were competing?
Some of my interests, not quite as nice as some of your guys, but they keep me occupied.
My Toyota, still a work in process
The heart of it, a 94 LT1
Some of my toys that I mostly built, have a small mill and lathe in garage
The place that helps me feed my above toys
An attempt at drawing, can you guess who it is?
My telescope
And photo taken with it
