in search of carisma

Thanks to Earth's tilted rotational axis and some brilliant planning on my part, I have a 32-day gap between the end of my classes and my flight home to enjoy New Zealand's summer scene. My dorm will close, so I have no choice but to take a road trip around the country. Tough luck, I know. I'll be joined by Thorvald, my Danish classmate from CBS, as we experience glow-worm caves, bungee jumping, zorbing, the sheer excitement of sheep-shearing, and some of the world's most dramatic scenery. We agreed that the best way to travel with flexibility and convenience is to buy an inexpensive car and sell it as we leave. I'm of the opinion that this is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, and I want it to be accompanied by a once-in-a-lifetime car. I've done some preliminary shopping, but I wanted to do my due diligence and make sure I make the right decision. Here are a few candidates:

1. 1991 Toyota Sera ~$750



Cons: Body damage on rear-right quarterpanel. Small 1.5L engine. Actually, small in general.

Pros:


It has effing gullwing doors. Short of a Lamborghini, this is the best way to cruise into our youth hostels' parking lots in epic style.



2. 1986 Daihatsu Mira ~$500



Pros: Past commercial usage indicates that we always mean business. Low 72,500 km mileage (...kilometrage?). Spacious rear cargo area for our luggage, friends, or a hot tub.
Cons:


That's the engine. And that isn't where it belongs.



3. Arrow AX8-KT100 ~$1000



Pros: Convertible. Combine with costume party to create Mario Kart reenactment. Mouth may be held open while driving to provide supplementary meals.
Cons: Fitting 2 people and 100 lbs of luggage on it. Clearing any barrier higher than 2 inches.



4. 1990 BMW 318i $(Best Offer)



Pros: Racing tuned. Spaceship-esque cockpit. Included back-up set of wheels and tires enables (over)aggressive driving. Could easily but illegally reduce transportation time by half.

Cons: You can outrun debt collectors and jilted lovers, but you can't outrun the law.



5. 1986 Toyota Hiace "Death Van" ~$900


Pros: Bullethole decals provide instant "street cred." Optimal vehicle in the event of spontaneous zombie attack. Thorvald loves heavy metal. As the seller described, "Can cart the coffins of deceased loved ones around." "The photo was taken in May of this year. It was at a park in Nelson at a wedding. The speakers on the ground because they are blasting out Black Sabbath tunes while we wait for the Bride. You can use it at your wedding!"
Cons: May be mistaken for rapists. Loose wires could result in shocking problem. Interior beat harder than Rihanna.





6. 1966 Abbott FV433 $(Best offer)


Pros: Front-mounted 105mm Howitzer with 18.3 mile range ensures that road rage will be vindicated. Recently passed inspection. Treads render inaccessible areas accessible. Amphibious kit included. No matter how far you go, you've always got a full tank.
Cons: Mildly intimidating and slightly conspicuous.



Decisions, decisions.