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Old 02-15-2018, 03:50 PM
 
Location: New Mexico via Ohio via Indiana
1,796 posts, read 2,229,993 times
Reputation: 2940

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Both used, both in years around 2012-2013

Chrysler 200: S trim, loaded, V6, retractable hardtop, auto, around 30K miles
Audi A5: soft top, 4 cyl turbo, Quattro, auto, maybe around 45K miles

Both around low teens $$$ for cost. Maybe $14K. The Audi S5 is a bump up to around $20K+, not really an option at the price sorry to say.

Probably apples and oranges but looking for a convertible, FUN (must be fun), something a bit unique, but nothing horrible with service. I know Audi's rep on this but all reviews say Audi's had a good decade of reliability compared to before.

I need to be practical, hence the hardtop (theft is not uncommon here in New Mexico...maybe get an alarm too?) and the desire for a domestic easy-to-maintain car pushes me to the 200. But the Audi LOOKS great and the reviews love it. The Chrysler's "S" trim at least is a little more sporty (esp. interior) than the other 200 trims, and it's got the V6 option.

54, male, by myself, I'm in a bit of a rut personally and professionally and looking for a pick-me-up, nothing major, but nothing having a convertible in the spring and summer out here in the West wouldn't fix. I'm also not a rear wheel drive Mustang midlife crisis guy (no offense intended, you know what I mean).

Also, I do need a new(er) vehicle and so I'm shopping. But I'm a school teacher, and while not poor, I have images of a $2000 Audi oil pump replacement service bill in my head. Is that even a true concern anymore? So yes, I am watching the money on this one. I had a Land Rover once, and I loved it but oh my god, the maintenance. My main concern is the Audi would be another Land Rover Discovery. Not to mention in my little New Mexico town, there's a couple of decent mechanics but hardly any Audi specialists.

I'd be happy with either one, really. I miss having a convertible, that's really it. It would also be a daily driver, but work is one mile away and though I visit really cold weather, no crippling blizzards are ever anywhere near me.

In short, the Audi is more seductive and the Chrysler is just okay but fine. The angel and devil on my shoulders are arguing.

Last edited by kpl1228; 02-15-2018 at 04:01 PM..
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Old 02-15-2018, 03:52 PM
 
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How is this even a question? Audi, even if it had 90K miles. "Fun" is not a concept attributable to the steaming pile of garbage that is the Chrysler 200, especially the one from the previous generation.

But, really, in this case - Mazda Miata. Loads of fun, practical in terms of maintenance and super reliable.
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Old 02-15-2018, 03:58 PM
 
Location: New Mexico via Ohio via Indiana
1,796 posts, read 2,229,993 times
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Quote:
Originally Posted by highlanderfil View Post
How is this even a question? Audi, even if it had 90K miles. "Fun" is not a concept attributable to the steaming pile of garbage that is the Chrysler 200, especially the one from the previous generation.

But, really, in this case - Mazda Miata. Loads of fun, practical in terms of maintenance and super reliable.
Not a bad option but as a daily driver and road trips, really want a four-seater. And it will be my only vehicle.
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Old 02-15-2018, 04:01 PM
 
5,681 posts, read 5,154,953 times
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Quote:
Originally Posted by kpl1228 View Post
Not a bad option but as a daily driver and road trips, really want a four-seater. And it will be my only vehicle.
That's fair. It was a bit tongue-in-cheek. Although I'm not sure how comfortable the back seat of a mid-size convertible is, especially for road trips, in all honesty.
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Old 02-15-2018, 04:05 PM
 
1,156 posts, read 940,752 times
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A car won't fix your personal or professional issues. And if the difference between $14K and $20K is that important, it doesn't seem like an Audi A5 makes much sense. On the other hand, a Chrysler 200 has no redeeming qualities. I say consider 1) therapy if you want to feel better 2) the Audi if money means nothing 3) the Chrysler if you're just giving up in general.
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Old 02-15-2018, 04:08 PM
 
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I am no fan of Audi whatsoever, but whatever you do, do NOT get a Chrysler 200. I work on cars for a living (38 yrs). A 200 is junk. Believe me. LOL
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Old 02-15-2018, 04:24 PM
 
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BMW 3 series is comprable to the Audi and has a retractable hardtop since 2006-ish.
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Old 02-15-2018, 04:39 PM
 
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Chrysler 200 should not be considered unless you hate yourself.

If you want a hard top below $20k also might want to consider the EOS (VW with hardtop).

Also BMW offers a hardtop and older models might be below $20k.

Might be able to get an older Lexus or MB with hardtop for around $20K as well.
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Old 02-15-2018, 04:49 PM
 
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Lol

200 is one of Chrysler's worst products and they are absolute bottom of the barrel reliability.
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Old 02-15-2018, 05:41 PM
 
Location: New England
242 posts, read 350,939 times
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Quote:
Originally Posted by kpl1228 View Post
Not a bad option but as a daily driver and road trips, really want a four-seater. And it will be my only vehicle.
My wife has an A5 convertible and while it has a back seat, there's not a lot of room back there for any normal sized adults. Even so, I would take the A5 every single time, especially since it's a Quattro. We live in New England it's terrific in the snow.
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