My car is rough. It's an older Honda Civic that runs like a top and drives well, but years of rust-belt winter driving have taken their toll on the body and undercarriage. I was cleaning some of the dirt and grass off of my wheel wells this past Saturday, after parking in the grass lot for Neon Nights, when I discovered a fist-sized hole in the driver's floorboard. I've driven worse in the past, but with my new full-time position here at the station I am now driving substantially more and desire something not only nicer, but cooler too. 

I have a very specific taste in vehicles and there's no one type I seek out, but I do have some preferences. My ideal car is fun to drive, unique, potentially with a manual transmission, two-door, and any color but red. Of course, I need it to be reliable, but I also want it to be presentable and clean. It could be a car, truck, or van but it must be something that speaks to me. 

I've had many interactions on Craigslist and Marketplace in my lifetime, but this instance seems different. Generally I either need to sell something or need to buy, but I am currently in a situation where I have the luxury of not needing a car but rather wanting one. I've messaged quite a few sellers and my plan is to lowball the interesting finds until I strike a deal. I have gone to look at a Camaro and a Miata so far and both were comical experiences. 

The Chevy looked gorgerous in pictures and even walking up to it. It was a V6 car with considerable mileage and a rebuilt title, but the price was compelling and it seemed clean. I checked it out and all seemed decent until I layed down to evaluate the underside. If you've ever heard of lipstick on a pig, that's the best way to describe this one. I immediately found holes in the floorboard where I could reach up and touch the carpet, and at this point I shook the owner's hand and said thanks for showing me it. Hard pass. 

The Miata on the other hand was solid all around. It looked really good, ran well, and was everything I want in my next ride EXCEPT... I didn't fit in it! I tried every possible angle for the seat postion and still hit my head on the convertible top. The owner also presented the vehicle as a private party sale when he has a dealer's liscense. Those who do tend to be a lot less negotiable and open to offers; which is a commonality in my experience and a big turn off. It ended up being a nice car and he was a pleasure to chat with, but my heart wasn't into it and I had no choice but to walk away with the headroom issue. 

So, the search continues. Fortunately my Civic, Vicky, has a lot of life left in her, and I can take my time to find the best option. I am known to make impulsive decisions on stuff like this, but this time around I am really trying to find the balance between what I want and what I need. It's tough and takes a good deal of commitment and restraint, but I will find something that checks all the boxes for me within my price range, and I hope you too will follow your heart and your head on whatever big decisions you face. Go with your gut and don't settle!