Have you ever wondered about Karma - whether things are pre-ordained to happen? I realize that shopping for a vehicle isn't a cosmic event, but it is still subject to the laws of Karma. I've mentioned before that I enjoy shopping, as long as it doesn't result in a purchase. So it was with vehicles. Long before it was practical to do so, I had begun my hunt for a replacement vehicle. I wanted one that would be fun to drive, less costly to operate, but still peppy. I had looked at the Tiburon of that day, and dismissed it as impractical. Not only did I not like the styling, but it wasn't the right size for a portly human being.

Early on in the process, I had focused considerable attention on the VW Golf GTI. It reminded me of the VW Rabbit of the '80s - a car that was greased lightning, and easy to park. Although my drives in the VW Golf GTI were always quite pleasing, ultimately, the price of the vehicle was beyond what I was willing to pay. As my hunt for a vehicle became more focused, the VW was one of the first casualties on my short list.

Yet, as I narrowed the choices down to two cars (the newly-restyled Tiburon, and the Acura RSX), both had serious deficiencies that I was not prepared to overlook. Trying to think practically, I brought the VW back to my short list yesterday, because I realized the only reason I had rejected the VW was the selling price. I had originally considered the automatic transmission. However, with my change in emphasis to sportier cars, I thought I'd take the 5-speed manual out for a spin. The "pocket rocket" was as hot as ever! Today, I made an offer on the VW. The offer was in line with the best price I had negotiated for the Acura RSX Type-S (a car whose list price was quite similar to the list on a tricked-out VW Golf GTI). Needless to say, the dealership didn't accept my offer (we were nearly $3000 apart). But, as I left the dealership to get some lunch, I let it be known that I would return after lunch; either to sign a deal for the price I had offered, or to take back my deposit.

After lunch, I noticed that the VW that I had test-driven had a "sold" sign in the window. I won't bore you with details, but I am now the proud owner of a VW Golf GTI VR6. I take delivery in June. Yeah, it would have been nice to own the Tiburon, but not at the expense of wondering how long it would be before the beast broke down. With this choice, while I won't cause heads to turn when I drive by, at least I'll spend more time on the road than in the shop. Knock wood.

There's an added benefit: according to insurance statistics, the cars most often stolen in Canada for joy rides and parts are the Tiburon and Acura Integra/RSX. By choosing the VW, I will end up paying less for insurance than if I had purchased either of those vehicles.

Oh yeah, here's my new baby: