I Want To Buy A Manual Before I Can't Anymore! What Car Should I Buy? - Jalopnik

I Want To Buy A Manual Before I Can't Anymore! What Car Should I Buy? - Jalopnik
January 15, 2026 at 7:25 PM

Ready to snag a manual before they fade away? Vineeth, a Chicago-based enthusiast nearing 40, wants a fun, three-pedal car that can still handle daily duty with two kids (6 and 1). He loves German cars and convertibles, can manage RWD with winter tires, and has up to $40,000 to spend.

Quick facts:

  • Budget: Up to $40,000
  • Location: Chicago, IL
  • Daily driver: Yes
  • Must-haves: Manual, engaging to drive, usable back seats
  • Nice-to-haves: German, convertible, some reliability

Top expert picks and why they fit:

  1. BMW M3 (E46, 2003)
  • Why it’s special: A true bucket-list ///M—raw, analog, and one of the last “classic” M3s.
  • What to expect: Incredible steering and an iconic straight-six. Older car, fewer modern safety features.
  • Watch-outs: Accident history can make pricing favorable; confirm quality repairs and strong maintenance records.
  1. Porsche 911 Cabriolet (997, 2005 911 S)
  • Why it’s special: Four seats, a manual, and the joy of open-top Porsche driving.
  • What to expect: Rear-engine traction helps in winter with proper tires. The example highlighted has a Porsche-installed long block addressing IMS concerns, plus tasteful enthusiast mods (coilovers, exhaust).
  • Watch-outs: Verify IMS update/engine history and overall service documentation.
  1. BMW M3 Convertible (E93, hardtop)
  • Why it’s special: A V8, a folding hardtop for year-round usability, and easier back-seat access for kids.
  • What to expect: Strong performance and engaging manual. Examples noted include a 2013 within budget and an earlier 2008 for less.
  • Watch-outs: Confirm rod bearing service, inspect top mechanism, and review maintenance history.
  1. BMW M2 (2017)
  • Why it’s special: Modern performance with a great manual gearbox and a more usable rear seat than the newer generation.
  • What to expect: Fast, compact, highly engaging. If you need a drop-top, consider manual M235i/M240i convertibles; some even offer AWD.
  • Watch-outs: Consider an extended warranty; check for diligent servicing and tire/brake condition.

Buying checklist:

  • Maintenance records first: IMS solutions (997), rod bearings (E9X), cooling and suspension upkeep (E46/E9X), and top mechanisms (convertibles).
  • Winter-ready: Budget for a dedicated set of quality winter tires.
  • Family fit: Test car-seat access and rear-seat space; convertibles can make buckling kids easier.
  • Reliability and costs: Factor pre-purchase inspections and potential warranty coverage to avoid surprises.

Bottom line:
With $40K and a desire to row your own, you’re spoiled for choice. For maximum nostalgia and feel, the E46 M3 is a bucket-list legend. For open-air thrills with four seats, the 997 911 cabrio or E93 M3 delivers. Want modern punch and practicality? The 2017 M2 is a standout. Test-drive them back-to-back and pick the one that makes every shift feel special.

Source: https://www.jalopnik.com/2076894/manual-car-40th-birthday-treat-wcsyb/

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