03 Vibe and 03 Matrix XR, which one should I go for?

[fch]

I am going to buy either an used vibe or matrix. Now I have two choices, would like to ask for your opinions. I posted another message in matrixowners.com, but want to have more suggestions here. Thanks!1, 2003 TOYOTA MATRIX XR. 4WDR. 4dr HB. Silver. 32000 KM. 4cyl. Automatic.Anti-lock brakes. Air conditioning. P/Windows. Tinted glass. P/Locks. Cruise control. AM/FM CD player. Alloy wheels. Fog lights. Top of the line. Passed vehicle inspection report. SALE $17250 2, 2003 Pontiac Vibe, silver, blk int, auto, air, 6 spk CD, exc cond, new tires, recent brakes, excellent gas mileage, hwy, lady driven, 81,000km, $13,900 I live in vancouver, bc, canada, all $ is in Canadian dollars. Thanks again.

[White03]

The Matrix has AWD, and while not normally a desirable option, it sure would come in handy in the Great White North! Other than that factor I would reccomend the vibe, I love my '03!David

[ragingfish]

I have a non-AWD vibe, and even though our winters pale in comparison to BC, I've found that a good set of snow tires more than does the job for snowy roads...AWD would be nice, but it's expensive (at least new), and in the non-winter months, saps horsepower!

[fch]

thx for both of you. For the vibe in the ad., how do you think 80000km milage? I am a little concerned about it, is it too much? Besides of the brake, tire which are changed by the current owner, what else cost may occur if i finally go for it?In fact, I prefer vibe looking while i know vibe and matrix are basically the same.

[fch]

it only snows once or twice here in Vancouer, so AWD may not be a concern for me. I prefer the vibe except the higher milage...

[ToolGuy]

Do you want auto or stick? Does not matter? I am kind of favoring the Trix... Lower miles and if you plan on keeping it for 5+ years. Not that the Vibe is bad but you may be looking at maintenance due to the mileage, i.e. trans fluid, coolant and I would do plugs & wires... Unless she has serv records. If money is an issue go for the Vibe and have it checked by a mech and or do what I suggested above.

[Ponyota]

My vote is for the Vibe or Vibe GT.. Much more aggressive looking style... Look around for the Vibe GT... I think you'll be much more happier with the performance... If you're going to be adding any mods to the AWD Matrix your choices are limited.. On the other hand the Vibe base or GT has more choices.. Ie: supercharger for the base! The reason I say to go with the GT Vibe is because of the horsepower difference. 130 base vs 180 GT. A supercharger for the base Vibe will bring you into the power-band of the GT, but it's going to cost you another 2 or 3 thousand (US) $ to get it there. Both models have body kits, hoods, roof rail caps, overlays, cai, lowering springs and so on that can be added.... If the car was well taken care of then there should be tons of life left even if the mileage is higher. A regular maintenance program can have an adverse affect on how long ones engine will live, verses one that isn't maintained. After all, it's a Toyota engine and those seem to run forever if you take care of it

[fch]

thanks toolguy!I want an auto coz my wife will also drives it. Re. the price, is the price reasonable for the vibe?Yes, trix has much lower odo. number, which is also what i like.

[fch]

in fact, i am quite new to cars, so speed or power does not matter too much. I like the car with little problem, reliable, easy to drive, of course - cool looking, which I like vibe more...This is my first car, so i want to have a used one first, after I am driving as well as you guys do, I will consider to buy a new one.I don't think I will add another 80000km in the next 3 years as it is for the current owner...So, maybe I can sell it after 2 years without too much depreciation? Thanks u 2 !!!

[NCVIBEOWNER]

I have an 05 Vibe with AWD and Antilock brakes. Although gas milage is not as good as a standard transmission basic model, the gas milage is not bad for an AWD. In you climate I would only want AWD and definitly Antilock brakes. You will have much more control with that combination.A GT is nice but you are limited to standard transmission while burning premium fuel. I would not consider buying a car that requires premium fuel.Go for the Trix unless you can find a comprabable Vibe. I think you will be happier with that choice.