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Dont get a cooper turbo S or anything with that dogshit 1600 motor.
Volvo C30 T5.227BHP, pocket rocket.
So - I've bought something!
Firstly, I'd like to thank you all for your suggestions - gave me a lot to think about!
I've bought a Citroen C4 Picasso with a 1.6 eco-diesel motor!
"You what?!@?" I hear you say.
After sitting back and pondering for a while, I realised that as much as I wanted something sporty I'd really have to pay more to get something that didn't have big miles.
However, I also felt that, after driving an ancient Leyland Daf or a motorbike solely for the last few years, something smooth, easy, economical, and comfy is also very appealing.
My GF needs to learn to drive too and realistically a supercharged mini cooper isn't the best place to start.
Her dad got in touch saying his pal was selling an immaculate Citroen mini-MPV with only 14k miles on, and only wanting £3.5k. FSH, MOTs, high spec all that nonsense.
And my GF was keen on it as something to learn on, so we split it 50/50.
Sitting on her mum and dad's drive til we get out of COVID jail, and if we don't want it, her mum is taking it.
I'll just need to get my kicks on the Ducati
Sensible bargain! 👍
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Hmmmm, as a current owner of a diesel C4 Picasso... I'd have bought something else.
It's like driving a sofa, comfortable but dull, the most exciting part is finding out which electrical feature will fail next.
In fairness you do get a lot of car for the money, and the engines are pretty robust...
Annoyingly mine just passed another MOT, meaning my case for a new car has been weakened for at least another 12 months...
I'm aware of the contradictions here.
However, it'll get me through winter in comfort, hopefully won't break down (14k miles), get my GF her license and then let me get that 147 GTA I've always wanted next spring
Sitting on her mum.......... and dad’s drive
Must read beyond the first few words before the mind starts boggling!
As an Abarth 595 owner, I'd recommend an older model. Absolutely hilarious fun. I've owned 3 Cooper S over the years and the Abarth is a lot more fun than they were. Sticks to the road like glue and is an absolute riot on the twisty stuff. Get 35mpg out of mine even with some spirited driving. Parts are very cheap. I put brembo discs and pads on all four corners for £160.
I just found my dream car... Search for yours https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202107285563543?advertising-location=at_cars&include-delivery-option=on&make=Abarth&price-to=5000&sort=relevance&atmobcid=soc5
My little go kart
Anyway, if I’ve learned anything from STW recently it’s that you’ll be needing a V6 if you expect to spend more than 10 or so minutes on a motorway, so you’ll be needing whatever car with a V6 you can find within your budget.
Something I really wish I’d had while driving on the M4 the last couple of times, what with the camera controlled speed limits, etc…
My 1.0 three-cylinder turbo Ford just wasn’t adequate enough. Trying to keep below 90mph was a real chore, thank God for cruise control.