ok...I'm searching for a car to replace my SHO, and I'll only accept RWD or AWD so...this search led me to look into (mostly older cars) I even looked at a Toyota Cressida (trying to be different (any Ideas on making them fast?) they're 190hp inline 6 (how much power can I make these take? mebbe change to a supra motor?) I've also looked into Subaru Legacy I'm digging the AWD, but not the 130hp (I actually think the turbo was 160hp) any potential for making these move faster? also looking at Ford Thunderbird, but (it's another ford :/) and I hear the IRS can't take much power and it's too hard to find a manual....then there's the 240sx (a little too popular, but I might get it if I can't decide on anything else)I'm searching around, but there doesn't seem to be much info...this is my daily driver, but I wouldn't want anything weaker than my current 220hp  

I wouldn't go with a Cressida.  It does have some potential performance...and if you had the money, you could swap in a 7M-GTE.  But still, it's a Cressida.  It's not exactly meant to be sporty.  If you're going to get a Thunderbird, be different and get a Thunderbird SC.  I've wanted one of these cars for a long time now.  They only make 230 HP, but they boast a 330 ft-lb torque rating that really gets them going.  From what I've heard, they make great daily drivers, IF they've been taken care of.  Otherwise they'll probably require a lot of reconditioning and TLC afterwards.  I'm getting a 240SX myself; the fact that they are popular only means more aftermarket support.  Then again, getting to 220HP would put a nice chunk in your wallet.  And another thing, it sickens me to think that they'll be the next ricer platform after Fast and Furious 3 comes out.  

You could always try and find a used IS300. They were rear wheel drive and very much akin to the Supra.  

Very true. The IS300 uses the 1JZ bottom end, so you know it's stout and capable of handling big power.  

well...this is my daily driver, so I'm not trying to spend big bucks on it (and it doesn't have to be a monster of a car) I just can't stand driving slow cars (my dad's Camry pisses me off so much)  

I wish I had a Datsun 510 with an s20det.  

I remember seeing one of these...man, they're awesome. I'd love to have one ...too bad I already have a project car...  

Try looking for an early example of the Z32 300ZX (turbo or non, depending on price). Strong engine, RWD, lots of potential, and probably cheaper than an equivalent age 240SX, just because the damn car (240) is so fantastically overhyped.  

darn...~_~ I'm falling in love with this 510...they're pretty cheap...

hmm...they're, like 2000lbs, 4 cylinder, IRS, now if I put in a ka24...then later turbo it (or put in sr20 instead)...  

I would get a 92 chevy impala ss or an 89 pontiac fiero.  The impala has the V8 from the older corvettes (LT1) and is reasonably fast.  Its just that is a heavy SOB.  The fiero has a decent 6 cylider and weighs around 2800 lbs.  Its mid engine as well!  If you dont like tiny two door cars than its not for you.  I would suggest a mr2, but thats the same scenario as the fiero.  I agree on the 300zx, those things are disgustingly fast!  All these cars you can get for under 10 grand, some under 5.  And the 240sx is a great car even if its too popular.  Theyre popular BECAUSE theyre so great.

I sure as hell hope the 240 doesnt become the next ricer platform....it would be a disgrace to such a good car.  I already had to talk my cousin out of putting neons on his future 240sx!  Crazy kid with crazy ideas...  

How about a 2002/2003 WRX? They're pretty cheap now that the STi is out (13K-16K), and 220 hp is nothing for those things.
If you really want the Legacy, you could always put the EJ20 in it, but that's expensive and maybe more work that you're willing to do for a daily-driver.  

Ever considered the Thunderbird TurboCoupe? It has the 2.3L turbo 4 from the SVO mustang. Lost's of hope there. 205 horses I think.

240 is alright. Trying to persuade my bro-in-law toward one.  

I would pick up a Merkur XR4Ti before A turbo Thunderbird.. same engine, smaller and lighter body.  

they're a little difficult to find...I've been looking for a tc for a while...found a couple, but both were in shitty condition...found an SC, but it was more than I wanted to spend...  

240s are still cheaper than Z32s, even with the price inflation.  Not only that, but unless you get a 2+2 (which is even more expensive and doesn't come in TT form), you don't get backseat with a Z.  I've heard that the Z cars are a *** to work on too because everything is crammed so tightly under the hood.  As an aside, I think you'd be better off looking for a Mustang SVO than a Turbo Coupe.  And yes...240s have already become a ricer platform.  The reason I mentioned Fast and Furious 3 is because it's going to be all about drifting...and you can most certainly bet it'll have 240s in it, if it's not one of the main vehicles.