Modo would be excellent choice, it costs around 1000$, but you get everything artist need. Max is great app but its aimed to pro orient not hobbyist, thats why the price seems high. Carrara and Hexagon are waste of money IMHO, if you want that level and higher go with Blender its complete production app for free. Rhino is nurbs modeler and would be great choice for exotic cars designs too, not sure about price but its around like Modo I guess.

Open your mind and share the knowledge!