[jonahk]

I went modest - 2018 M2 and a 2015 Subaru Forster. Still cheaper than what new M3s are going for these days

Plus having a vehicle that I can throw gear, dog, furnature, 2 sets of M2 wheels and whatever else and not worry about it really makes for a stress-free situation.

[Transfer]

Originally Posted by jonahk

I went modest - 2018 M2 and a 2015 Subaru Forster. Still cheaper than what new M3s are going for these days

Plus having a vehicle that I can throw gear, dog, furnature, 2 sets of M2 wheels and whatever else and not worry about it really makes for a stress-free situation.

Totally agree but I would hate driving the subie and would probably avoid it most of the time.

I'm strongly leaning RS5 + M2 but will need to drive the RS5 again. It's really an incredible street machine. Anyone own one that wants to chime in?

[Towerworld]

Originally Posted by Transfer

Ugh! I can't decide which way to go. I will be turning in my M235i lease in a few months and so I'm planning my next moves. I will have room for an AWD DD and a fun car. One must be a V8 and both >350 hp. My people hauler, ski trip, utility vehicle is an SQ5. What say you Bimmerpost?

1) B8.5 RS5 + M2 hooligan car
2) E9x M3 + B8.5 S4 (tuned)
3) E9x M3 + Mk7 Golf R (tuned)

I've owned an E90 M3 and fairly extensively driven the other options except Golf R but I've driven GTIs and know what the Golf R is all about. I live in Seattle and the roads are wet about 50% of the year as well as <60F at least 50% of the year. Pretty depressing when you think about it.

My quick takes:
- The E9x M3 has many great things going for it but it is almost too involved touchy/twitchy for my liking. Also RWD is just more difficult here, and I'm not expecting to do much if any track time.
- The RS5 is a real monster on the street. The handling, looks, comfort, sound, and speed are fantastic but it might leave a little to be desired in the dry. Talk of understeer on the RS5 is a bunch of garbage unless pushing 9 or 10/10ths which is track level driving.
- The M2 is amazing but not a naturally aspirated V8.
- The S4 and Golf R are great but not exciting.

Right now I'm highly leaning towards starting with an RS5 and getting a used M2 later.

Of those options I'd take #3 I don't think a car can be "too involved" when you have another one as a DD.
Another great v8 is the last generation CTSV( not naturally aspirated but superchargers have the response and feel of a NA)
Camaro SS or Gt350 are pretty awesome probably too brash for you though.
For winter DD: 328xdrive or G37x are good and affordable.

Alternatively, get a new E63 AMG and tick both boxes in one if you can spring it.

[Suds]

Can I say, RS & M.

[Transfer]

Revisited an E92M on a test drive yesterday and of course really loved it. I'm going with the E92 but I think finding the right one is going to be a challenge. The right E90 would be fine too but certainly more rare. The S4 or Golf R will come later.