Which one would you buy

[Ed Tarras]

Well its time to sell the MM. Considering 2008 Impala SS or 2008 Charger R/T.
Does anyone have any first hand experience with either of these cars?

[FordNut]

You'll be disappointed.

I've rented both Impala and Charger, they weren't SS and R/T models but the overall experience is nowhere near the MM/GM/CV.

[Raudermaster]

Uhh, none. Keep the MM! Why are you selling? You know though, it's really an apples to oranges question. Both are completely different cars. The SS is FWD, whereas the Charger is RWD. What do you prefer more? Charger has more HP, though the SS' interior is quite nicer to the Charger IMO. The SS is just shy of $30k well equipped, the R/T is about $31k base.

[RedMerc04]

Id go for the charger over the Impala and that is based on the fact that the Charger is Rear wheel. I dont really see the point of the Impala SS, Its FWD with a roughly 300 Hp V8. If I wanted a car like that Id go for the new Buick, or possibly a Caddy. Of course price is an issue but the Impala just doesnt do it for me its kind of an accord on steriods. JMO

[KillJoy]

Personally, I would hold out for a Pontiac G8.

:up:

KillJoy

[Ed Tarras]

I think its just time, the car has 42k and I'm not happy with the performance even after all the additions. Problem is I still like the body style but a new car will cost me less in the long run.

[not5-0]

Would you consider a Magnum? The front end has been redisigned for 08 and IMO looks much better, plus since they have axed the Magnum altogether there wont be many out there. You will get some of the exclusivity of the MM

[FormulaMarauder]

Two completely different cars. Our opinion doesnt mean anything. Go out and drive them, after all, it's your car. The SS is great, the R/T is getting tired quick. The way I look at it in regards to the Charger is go SRT8 or go home. Check out insurance prices, mpg, room, etc. Live in snow states? The SS may fit you then.

[Ed Tarras]

which Buick are you talking about

[MarauderVOL]

I'd check out the new Pontiac G8 (6.0L V8 with 361hp rear wheel drive) or hold out for the 09/10 Impala SS when it goes back to the rear wheel platform.

[sailsmen]

What additions. Neither car will out perform a Marauder w/ additions.

I like the body style of the Charger. The Impala SS is a much more impressive car.

The car auction I go to most of the Chrysler rwd are pushed. If it is anything like the Caliber I rented it is junk.

[mrjones]

#3 on holding out for the G8. I'd want to see and drive it before jumping into something else.

[dohc324ci]

I second KillJoy, wait for the Pontiac G8 or the Impala SS! Never been a big fan of FWD cars. I am glad to see the big three migrating back over.

[dohc324ci]

I just seen this on a similar post; wait for the Pontiac G8 or Impala SS RWD 09/10. Maybe it is just me but FWD Impala? No thank you. The Impala was ment to be a RWD V8. Dont get me wrong GM had some nice FWD cars Grand Prix GTP/Buick Reagal GS and Impala SS all decent sub 6 to 7 second cars but....... Also I hear a lot of good things about the platform. The Pontiac G8 is based on GM' s subsidiary Holden in Austrialia.
http://www.hsv.com.au/Cars/ESeries/clubsportr820/clubsportr820.asp

[Raudermaster]

The G8 has been out for a while. It was released not too long after the SS. What I can't get is, how come GM is using their Aussie pals ideas, but Ford can't use their FPV stuff. Do they not get it?

[Paul]

supercharge your MM ride my friend. spend $6k on a trilogy kit, self install, or an extra $1k on having it done for you. that should give enough performance. :D

[CRUZTAKER]

My parents have a Charger R/T
They live in a retirement community in Florida.
They upgraded from a Lebaron.
They claim the LeBaron had more power and got more attention from the neighbors.

I dunno....:dunno:
That Charger R/T is definately the "cats ass"

I may look at one in the future.
I am really tired of my Marauder as well.

Buy a GM.

The Chevy malibu is an awe inspiring vehicle to drive and get noticed by nearly everyone on the road.

Very spirited, handles wonderfully, and in no way sounds like a tin can on the roadway.


Go for it.!!!


Eww....eww...hold up...

Saturn!
Saturn has some wonderfull cars that may suit your purpose in life.
Another awe inspiring quality built plastic car.
Reader ratings A+++
Check consumer reports if you still aren't sure.

[quota]

Impala SS is a FWD. Some efficiency but too much torque effect in the steering. Say good bye to driving entertainment.
Charger R/T (in black or silver) is closer to the MM than the SS. But without MM's exclusivity and space in the back seat. Why wouldn't you keep your MM ?

JP

[FordNut]

Barry, have you been sampling the single barrel offerings?

[CRUZTAKER]

No way man...

I drove grandmas '04 Malibu all day Sunday.

It was frigin 'waesome' I tell you!!!!!

Waesome!!!!!


So much better than my focus...I just don't know where to begin. :D

I should have powned a GM.

[dohc324ci]

The G8 has been out for a while. It was released not too long after the SS. What I can't get is, how come GM is using their Aussie pals ideas, but Ford can't use their FPV stuff. Do they not get it?

You may be thinkg the Pontiac G6...the G8 is an 2008 model coming this year. http://www.pontiac.com/g8/index.jsp. From what Ive read online the Impala SS is due soon after the Pontiac G8 (a year or so) new platform and RWD SS!:beer:

[dohc324ci]

Well its time to sell the MM. Considering 2008 Impala SS or 2008 Charger R/T.
Does anyone have any first hand experience with either of these cars?

I have only driven in a 2.7L Charger so not impressed. back seat is cramped weird side window a lot smaller then the 2001 intrepid I have. Now I have a buddy who had a Chrysler 300c and......that was NICE. Enough torque to plant in in the seat and GO!. The 5.7 is NICE lots of torque. He says milage isnt bad as well. I have no seat time in the Impala, l do see one at work nice interior GM is getting better in interior quality.

[FordNut]

Oh well...

Every time I rent a Malibu, Impala, Charger, Intrepid, etc, It really makes me appreciate the Marauder.

[CRUZTAKER]

That's odd....

It makes me want to drop in R while doing 85 on the toll road . :dunno: :D

[Cordoba1]

Hey -- My two cents: If you're into large, powerful, good looking 4-door sedans, wait for the G8. It'll be out probably around March or April. After selling my MM (and subsequently buying another) I shopped other large cars such as the Charger (too cheap inside) and looked briefly at the GTO (great car, but ugly to me). There are several cars coming out this spring that I'm very excited about -- Pontiac's G8 will be very hot, and not in the same category, but I can't wait to try out the new BMW 1.

The key is go test driving.. It's one of the few free things left to do!

[dohc324ci]

Hey -- My two cents: If you're into large, powerful, good looking 4-door sedans, wait for the G8. It'll be out probably around March or April. After selling my MM (and subsequently buying another) I shopped other large cars such as the Charger (too cheap inside) and looked briefly at the GTO (great car, but ugly to me). There are several cars coming out this spring that I'm very excited about -- Pontiac's G8 will be very hot, and not in the same category, but I can't wait to try out the new BMW 1.

The key is go test driving.. It's one of the few free things left to do!
Yeah that 1 series has the same turbo six that is in the 335i:banana: There are just too many Chargers/300 out there with too much bling. When they first came out different story. Now every is buying them with the 2.7 v6 and putting 24" on them. The only way to distinguish yourself from them is going with the SRT8.

Midsize alternative:
Cant wait, look at a the following
Caddy CTS-V(LS6)
Infinity M45
Lexus IS350/250
BMW 335i, 330i
MB C350

[Aren Jay]

How much money do you want to spend, how fast do you want it to be?

Ever consider a 2004 Jaguar XJR? It is light fast gets good MPG and they are cheap now.

cheapish. $25K+ range. Sub 5 second 0-60, without modification.

http://www.caranddriver.com/longroadtests/9014/long-term-test-jaguar-xjr.html

New they are bit too pricy.

[Bradley G]

neither!
Someone get him a test drive in a Trilogy enhanced Marauder!


Well its time to sell the MM. Considering 2008 Impala SS or 2008 Charger R/T.
Does anyone have any first hand experience with either of these cars?

[Bluerauder]

Wait for the Challenger ... or place your order now.

[Haggis]

Wait for the Challenger ... or place your order now.

That makes three cars I will never buy. :puke:

[Starman]

So many choices. First if I had a MM, I would keep it and put a Trilogy on it. Then you would have a car that hauls butt, is comfortable for you and passengers and you won't have a 30K+ car loan to pay off. Plus it unique!

But if you must have new, I would say wait for the RWD G8 or Impala SS. A car is something you should never compromise on as it will be with you for awhile. And put some seat time in the cars before you buy. I have known folks that rent a similar car for a few days to help in their decision. Good Luck.

[fastblackmerc]

From experience.

Mine 2004 MM, wife's 2007 Charger R/T with the Road & Track package.

See posts here: http://www.motorcitymarauders.com/forums/showthread.php?t=3117&highlight=charger+r%2Ft

After driving & comparing the R/T to my MM I'd definitely stay with the MM.

I'll only list the Charger since you already are familiar with the MM.

Minuses:

Less back seat room than the MM
No steering wheel-mounted controls for the radio (they are an option)
20" wheels are "chrome clad" meaning the shiny wheels are covered with a chrome plated plastic cover that is not replaceable (you need to replace the entire wheel for $1,600.00 :eek:)
Turning off the traction control doesn't really disable it
Interior is cheap looking plastic that is hard to keep fingerprints off of
Use only 5-20w oil or the MDS doesn't work
Rear half-shafts are prone to breakage if you up the HP
Cruise control is mounted on a stalk near the turn signal lever - not easy to operate and you can hit it when trying to use the turn signals
Small rear side windows
Poor visibility out the rear window
Large "C" pillar cuts down on visibility
ATC is set by a dial, I like the digital readout in the MM
Auto stick feature is a pain to use and it will shift to a higher gear eventhough you are using the Auto stick


Pros:

5.7l HEMI
Back seats fold down increasing the cargo carrrying capacity
Bucket seats are really good
Sirrius radio as an option (we have it, won't be buying it after the free 1 year trial)
One touch open and close for both front windows and moon roof
Nice lane change / turn signal feature
Uses 89 octane fuel
Trunk mounted battery
Many OEM & aftermarket upgrades available
ATC is dual zone


The biggest downside with the Charger is that no one looks at it. No one pulls up to it at a light and wants to ask you questions about it. No one waits in a parking lot for you to return to your car and ask questions about it. No one thinks your a LEO and gets out of your way.

I'd stick with the MM.

[JVJ]

How bout the DAYTONA CHARGER, now there's the MONSTER u seek! GO MOPAR!!!

[fastblackmerc]

See my post here:
http://www.mercurymarauder.net/forums/showthread.php?t=40877&page=2

[Cordoba1]

Oh yeah, Oh yeah -- I forgot about the Cadillac CTS - Very sharp - can be optioned several different ways. It's auto show season, as well - go to one!

[CanadaMarauder]

My opinion would be the Charger, not because I work for Chrysler but due to the fact that it is RWD..The only 2 things that would concern me with the Charger is the blind spot if your a bit shorter and the traction control (ESP) does not fully disengage...EVER unless you get the Police package or SRT8. Just my 2 cents :)

[Cordoba1]

Do not judge a car based on your rental experinece. Rentals are almost always stripped-down models and do not represent the ownership experience.

[Zack]

Ah let the guy downgrade on his own accord.

[Aren Jay]

Ever consider the new Subaru STi Impreza wagon/hatchback?

4 doors seat 4.5 people and has all the power doesn't have the weight.

[Lowndex]

If you are willing to pay the large insurance premioum increase, I recommend the charger. It looks awesome and one recently left me in the dust!

[DL04]

If you buy the Charge go for the SRT8.My friend had a R/T, installed headers CAI still wasn't satisfied and traded it in on an SRT8- nice car from the factory.If I was in the market for a new ride I'd certaily consider a CTS-V!

[Aren Jay]

ahh (http://www.edmunds.com/apps/vdpcontainers/do/MediaNavVideoThumbnails#0) it doesn't work.

A video to wet your appetite to an alternative.

it might be too small for you though.

[Breadfan]

If you still like your MM, it's features and the way it looks I second the idea to find a Trilogy car in your area and give it a shot. Makes it a whole new car.

[gmtech]

i work at a GM dealer and a Dodge dealer ..the new Impala SS and all its twins with the 5.3 liter V8 have rear engine block porosity problems and we do alot of oil leaks...the Charger and all its twins seem to be eating trannies..just my 2 cents

[FordNut]

And I really hate that stupid dongle instead of a key.

[CVPete]

From experience.

Mine 2004 MM, wife's 2007 Charger R/T with the Road & Track package.

See posts here: http://www.motorcitymarauders.com/forums/showthread.php?t=3117&highlight=charger+r%2Ft

After driving & comparing the R/T to my MM I'd definitely stay with the MM.

I'll only list the Charger since you already are familiar with the MM.

Minuses:

Less back seat room than the MM
No steering wheel-mounted controls for the radio (they are an option)
20" wheels are "chrome clad" meaning the shiny wheels are covered with a chrome plated plastic cover that is not replaceable (you need to replace the entire wheel for $1,600.00 :eek:)
Turning off the traction control doesn't really disable it
Interior is cheap looking plastic that is hard to keep fingerprints off of
Use only 5-20w oil or the MDS doesn't work
Rear half-shafts are prone to breakage if you up the HP
Cruise control is mounted on a stalk near the turn signal lever - not easy to operate and you can hit it when trying to use the turn signals
Small rear side windows
Poor visibility out the rear window
Large "C" pillar cuts down on visibility
ATC is set by a dial, I like the digital readout in the MM
Auto stick feature is a pain to use and it will shift to a higher gear eventhough you are using the Auto stick


Pros:

5.7l HEMI
Back seats fold down increasing the cargo carrrying capacity
Bucket seats are really good
Sirrius radio as an option (we have it, won't be buying it after the free 1 year trial)
One touch open and close for both front windows and moon roof
Nice lane change / turn signal feature
Uses 89 octane fuel
Trunk mounted battery
Many OEM & aftermarket upgrades available
ATC is dual zone


The biggest downside with the Charger is that no one looks at it. No one pulls up to it at a light and wants to ask you questions about it. No one waits in a parking lot for you to return to your car and ask questions about it. No one thinks your a LEO and gets out of your way.

I'd stick with the MM.

x2! My buddy has the SRT8 he loves it but can't even change out the rear gears...none available! It is a nice car however, good luck whatever you decide!

[freakstatus]

Just think about the awesome front wheel drive burnouts you can do with the Impala! LOL.

[rayjay]

i work at a GM dealer and a Dodge dealer ..the new Impala SS and all its twins with the 5.3 liter V8 have rear engine block porosity problems and we do alot of oil leaks...just my 2 cents

Ah, maybe thats why Cheby offered me a fully loaded one so cheap last month.

[Ed Tarras]

Well, I did my shopping, test drives, etc. End result is that I'm keeping the MM. I just wasn't impressed enough with the cars to make a purchase. Thank you for all your posts. Guess I'll wait for Pontiac or 2010 SS rwd.

[Ms. Denmark]

Ed,

You must be the guy with the black MM I used to see on Rte. 57. What year is your car, what additions did you add, and who did the work? I've been thinking about more horses for my ride.

[MENINBLK]

If you want a car with a HEMI, you've got to shop around for the original vehicles.
These 2000 HEMIs aren't the real deal.

My Marauder has over 83,000 miles, still runs like a scalded dog,
and is not going anywhere, even if I buy another vehicle to drive.

I am interested in a possible Challenger or Camaro though...
Maybe an old one AND a new one !

[UncleLar]

If I was going to buy a brand new car and wanted some muscle it'd be a Dodge Magnum with the hottest engine they'd throw in it.I've heard they're dropping the Magnum though due to sagging sales and I'm not familiar with Mopars reliability nowadays.I like big cars and I've always liked station wagons,one of my first cars was a 57 Pontiac Safari wagon,Pontiac's version of the Nomad,and I wish I could afford another one.