Czech out my FIRST CAR!

[TorqueR]

melvster said:

Still thinking of a Clio Trophy ??

Although I still adore the car I doubt I would enjoy it on a day-to-day basis with my current commute and wouldn't benefit from the development that the engineers spent time to fine tune. With just a few hundred examples floating about I would hate to think that I have one and using it for daily duties if there is an enthusiast who could enjoy it more of the time. Add to that the nice examples don't stay on the market for long and I question the higher mileage ones at the lower end of the scale as I question the condition of the dampers and overall state, if that makes sense.

MC Bodge said:

Why not buy 4 Toyos?

FWIW, my wife's Mk1 Fabia had (Nexen) ditchfinders on the front. It under-steered for Lancashire. It was awful.

No other reason other than to save money for the (then) upcoming holiday - see below. I believe I mentioned that when I first got NX51, it had budget tyres on and I experienced understeer on occasion. They were then changed for the Hankook tyres which grip better but as this week has shown, they dislike the colder and icier weather.
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Evening, it has been a while since I have updated this thread, partly because I have been so busy but also because there isn't a huge amount to report.

NX51 now sits at just shy of 71,200 miles so if you have followed this thread from the start, you will notice that my mileage has reduced dramatically in the recent months - I believe I have done just over 1,000 miles since Sept. The lack of miles doesn't reflect my thoughts on the car, it isn't that I dislike driving it but rather, my office is now just 1.8 miles away and I spent the majority of October in the USA.



If your interested, my thoughts were that the Chevrolet Equinox was underpowered (2.2 auto, 180bhp, 4WD) for the size of the car. If you were able to spec it with a V6, it would be much better because this range topping example (LTZ) had some nice touches, albeit enclosed around a plastic interior. The Ford Escape (or Kuga in the UK) had a smoother automatic gearbox and is the rental that I preferred but had limited options. They were both great companions to have in and my family covered just over 2,000 miles between them in 2.5 weeks!

Upon returning from the USA, I attempted to get to the bottom of the power steering issue that plague the majority of MY01-07 Skoda Fabia's. It is a known issue with a wealth of knowledge on the subject if you look at extensive thread on briskoda. In an attempt to summarise NX51 being away at the garage for three days, I still haven't got the bottom of the issue. I have a theory on what the solution may be but have been procrastinating and still haven't bought the item. In my experience, it is fine until you need to do a lot of steering input lock-to-lock (example: turn in the road) and if the steering does get heavier, it isn't as bad as some may lead you to believe and is not a daily occurrence.

Anything else to report? The tyres dislike the cold and icy weather which we (derbyshire) are experiencing and without any noticeable traction control, you can get the wheels to spin on a partial throttle. Also, last night I noticed that my number plate bulb had gone so nipped to the motor factors after work to get some a replacement. The pack had two inside so I decided to change both of them and see which goes first.

Lastly, my Dad surprised me with some replacement wind deflectors (Team HEKO) after the others were stolen a month or two back (discussed in a previous entry) and these have stayed on the car longer than the last set so all is good.



Photo taken this afternoon, after a quick wash.

Edited by TorqueR on Saturday 14th March 22:44

[TorqueR]

Thank you for the comments and pictures, they are most welcome. I agree with you, it has proven to be a great first car which has, like you say, just enough power to keep up with traffic. I have recently been in much faster cars and I can still derive enjoyment from NX51.

I was surprised to read about your low economy figures. I do not have a trip computer that calculates your average MPG (due to having a measly Classic example) so I have to rely on basic napkin mathematics but on multiple long journeys it is possible to get around 450 miles from one tank. I am getting around 300 miles from just going around the houses with the odd blast.

I am not doubting you by any means but I personally haven't seen the low figures which you have reported - obviously there are a variety of variables that will effect the economy. I will most likely need to fill up later this week or early next week so I will the receipt and reset the trip in order to see what range it returns and do my trusty napkin calculations at the next fuel stop thereafter to see the results.

[TorqueR]

Fun Bus said:

I use the Road Trip Lite app for keeping track of mpg and other fuel stats.

My phone is nearly up to capacity due to the number of photos and songs that I have on it. It may not have enough space for another app.

samj2014 said:

Really? Wow, in that case I'm impressed. I'm a frequent poster on Briskoda, and from what I've read on there, around 30-35mpg is to be expected from the 1.4mpi engine. Perhaps you just got a really good one?! haha. Mine probably was't running in tip-top shape in fairness, it had a bit of a misfire.
I easily get 50+ from the octy

Edited by samj2014 on Wednesday 17th December 02:18

I am under no illusion that the engine is outdated and isn't very efficient but I personally think that other factors played a negative effect for you - such as the bikes causing drag, misfire etc. My best (or worst, depending on your vantage point) was a lowly 26mpg and that was commuting around town doing multiple short trips.

[TorqueR]

I recall the old saying of "time flies when you are having fun..." because it has been another month since the last update. Is that statement true with NX51?

A car (in my opinion) as an entity is the epitome of independence and if a car can compliment your lifestyle, allowing you to carry on with your life, without fuss and whatever the weather, it is a good car in my books. If a car is capable of doing that, then it gains my respect and I am happy to report that NX51 has proven itself by doing just that.

I am fortunate that I live within a mile or two from the Peak District and that, by extension, means that during winter, we have a greater probability of seeing that cold, white weather that dominates the usual media outlets. This past week has been especially exciting with 1ft of snow falling in some places nearby - on Thursday - and my car (as hinted to earlier) gained massive respect from me by allowing me to carry on with my life as per usual in such conditions. The basic setup of FWD, narrow tyres and low weight all point towards a competent snow hack but nonetheless, it is still impressive the first time you experience it.



While staying on the subject of snow, it leads me onto another subject, the demise of my PH sticker. It would appear that in prolonged temperatures below 0c, the adhesive isn't as good and as a result, may cause some parts to slide off with the snow. A big shout out to PH'er Viper who noticed the problem and generously sent me a replacement sticker out in a prompt manner FREE of charge. Again, thank you.

Edited by TorqueR on Saturday 14th March 22:46

[TorqueR]

Evening,

We have another day, another update. However, this isn't about my example. It actually refers to the WhatCar COTY 2015 - the brand-new Skoda Fabia. Now, I feel as though the award is a bit premature to say the least (for obvious reasons) but this update shan't argue that specific point. It is rather a place that allows me to write down my initial impressions after seeing in the flesh. See photos below;





My initial thoughts are largely positive. As the owner of a Mk1 example I am a fan of the square stance that it has and while the Mk2 (and 2.5) weren't to my taste aesthetically, I am pleased that SKODA have returned to the square and simple look. It isn't a daring design by any stretch but the clean lines and small dimensions really suit it - if I were to say anything untoward about the design, it would be the front headlight and grille cluster being too anonymous.

I had a brief look at the interior and the good news continues. The gear knob looks short and stubby which is similar to the Mk1 non-vRS examples and the multi-function steering wheel doesn't look like a parts bin special. I'm not going to spout the motoring journalist cliche of comparing the scratchiness of plastics but from a brief glance, the dash doesn't look too dissimilar to the Citroen DS3 and doesn't have a large button tally....take that how you wish. It had an infotainment system built in the centre console but that may be just a large display or it may have sat-nav capabilities too - not sure. It had alloys, rear parking sensor(s) and the screen so it could be a basic trim level which has been spec'd with the nice options or the more logical way would be to demonstrate the range topping example as it didn't have any advertisement telling us the price nor trim level. The little badge on earlier Fabia's (situated on both front wings) has also since disappeared.

A gentleman pulled up nearby in a brand new Octavia and with his Skoda branded jacket, making his way towards me. After a few pleasantries and a diminishing lunch break, it was my cue to leave. I am a little tempted to detour to the dealership this weekend to see whether a test-drive would be possible - I have no intention of buying one but as an owner of a Mk1, I am curious too see what it is like.

Disclaimer; I doubt I will go for a test-drive, I wouldn't be a tyre kicker and waste the time of a salesman who is probably busy on a weekend.

[TorqueR]

Evening,

I feel that another update is due to explain my thoughts on NX51 and potential thoughts with regards to buying something else...but first, allow me to tell you a story. 

If you have seen my profile, you may have noticed that last week, I was able to celebrate having my driving licence for two years. Question is, how would one celebrate? Well, the original plan was to get a new car but y'know, with the MOT due in two weeks time a private buyer would be (quite rightly) hesitant and it would need to be reflected in the price. It would be the same story if I were to trade it in at a garage against another car. If I am being realistic, waiting until after the MOT will be wise as I have more options. I'm also still unsure on what I want.

I'm not the sort to be discouraged and while I wouldn't celebrate every year, I feel that the two-year anniversary is special and noteworthy due to the restrictions on your licence being eased with regards to penalty points.

As I said, the new car isn't viable at the moment which left me with few options, so I opted to go for a drive. I didn't want to go down my usual route because if it becomes the default run whenever I go on a drive, it wouldn't excite or challenge you anymore. Anybody agree? 

In the end, I chose to plot a new route that would incorporate some local country roads that for whatever reason, I hadn't driven yet. It was a great idea but when I woke up that morning, my enthusiasm waivered because when I saw it sitting in the sunshine, it looked a right mess because of the previous weeks road grime and my thoughts turned to wash and polishing it....but then I thought; "A car is to be driven, not a driveway ornament" so with that, I commited one of a car enthusiast's worst sin and drove to the nearest car wash and y'know what, paid to have my car scratched. My justification was that a car wash wouldn't exactly devalue a 14y/o Skoda. It also meant that it was a first for me, which as you will see, is the ethos that continues throughout the day. 

When the car was duly scratched, I was able to start the drive and get it all dirty again. My route consisted of driving down narrow country lanes in and around Bakewell, Matlock, Darley Dale, Chatsworth, Ashbourne and other nearby areas. It was a nice route which consisted of steep hairpins, steep hills, crests and dips, fast corners, sharp corners, loose surfaces, sudden camber changes and stunning scenery. It was a very enjoyable drive which tested your observation skills and in parts, displays weaknesses in your car as I have since picked up an annoying dash rattle.

In the afternoon, a few friends and I went down to Donington to have a look around the museum which was another first for me. My mate who was driving has a Alfa Romeo MiTo SBK which has the 1.4T and 170bhp engine which I believe is the unit that is found in the Abarth 500 EsseEsse but I am happy to be proved wrong. 
I find that my mates Alfa makes you feel special, with just 200 examples of the SBK Edition worldwide (just 20-odd in the UK) you can derive much delight in being the rarest car in any given car park. I shan't go into too much detail as it isn't a thread about a MiTo but if you care to learn more about what differentiates a regular MiTo to the SBK, I am sure Google will be able to assist.

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[TorqueR]

RobinBanks said:

If you've had your driving licence for 2 years, you're presumably about 19 or 20 years old.

Have you ever considered celebrating by going to the pub with your mates like a normal 19 or 20 year old?

And you do realise that you could just put it through an MOT two weeks early?
I put mine through a month early last year because I was going away and didn't want to let it lapse.

You are correct, I am 20.

A few friends and I did go to the pub after visiting the museum but as this is the Readers Rides sub-forum, I didn't see the relevance of discussing such events, nor the meal that we also enjoyed, hence why such things were left out.

I am aware that you are able to do an MOT earlier but I have no reason to schedule it for an earlier date.

[TorqueR]

GroundEffect said:

TorqueR said:

I am aware that you are able to do an MOT earlier but I have no reason to schedule it for an earlier date.

Didn't you just discuss above that you were between a rock and a hard place because of the 2-week-remaining MOT? This revelation would solve such a riddle!

It would normally make sense but due to work commitments I am unable to get to a garage until next week.

[TorqueR]

Evening,

To those that may be interested, NX51 passed the MOT. Yup, that's about as exciting this update will get.

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Note: I understand that this hasn't been the most interesting vehicle to grace these pages but I have tried to make a 14y/o standard hatchback a little more interesting via my photos and stories. I appreciate not everybody wants to read every small update on NX51, no matter how I try and dress it up.

I still want to change my car in the not too distant future so unless something notable happens to the Skoda, the next update should be the concluding entry.

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leglessAlex said:

What are you going to replace it with then?

That is a very good question but, rather annoyingly, I still haven't found the answer.

[TorqueR]

I'm pleased the majority do read and enjoy this thread - it is a source of encouragement. I fully expected the comments from the usual suspects but I thought they had got their point across at the start of the thread without regurgitating the same speal year in, year out. Nevermind. 

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samj2014 said:

How about a slightly faster, slightly bigger Skoda?
My Octavia is for sale, just throwing that out there

If you don't ask, you don't get but I will have to dissapoint I am afraid, the Mk1 Octavia isn't a car which is on my radar. All the best with the sale though!

Dalto123 said:

OP: Have you not considered some a bit more 'sporty' next? Being 20 your insurance should be quite reasonable on MR2's/MX5's/MG TF's etc (if you like that sort of car)....

My insurance is sensible at the moment and those suggestions shouldn't raise it too much either but as AV hinted to, hot hatches (or something practical) would be a wiser purchase. It would also afford me the opportunity to read a thread, say of a black MX-5, when summer arrives and kick myself for not getting a roadster.

A vRS is something to consider but variety is a spice of life and I would like to experience a different model of car next.

[TorqueR]

May I ask what makes you return?

I appreciate and understand that my writing style isn't to your taste and that is fine, I have no problem with that but you are able to skip the thread, as already stated. I find this thread cringeworthy but you appear like the attention so I wouldn't waste my time, nor yours writing posts to slate you because what would it achieve, apart from undue tension?

As countless posts in recent days would suggest, the majority appear to appreciate the effort that goes into the thread and engage in discussions. If a select few posters don't like my thread, that is okay because a huge benefit of the internet is that there is a plethora of topics to suit all walks of life.

[TorqueR]

leglessAlex said:

It's not surprising you find the Ignis thread cringeworthy, it's meant to be fun and that appears to be something you're not really into.
 

If I come across as boring and inept of having fun then fine, I can't do much to change your perception but they aren't traits which you associate with me if you met me in person. I think everybody comes across differently with a monitor in front of them, for better or worse.

Chunkymonkey71 said:

3 major differences here:

1) I didn't start that thread.
2) it's entertaining- which is why it's a bit more than 7 pages long, with almost half the posts being your own. 
3) the ignis thread doesn't reek of autism.

I'm a little tired of trying to justify my own actions on my own thread but in answer to your questions; 1) I never stated that you started the thread but I fail to see what point you are attempting to make. 2) I mentioned in the original post that I would be updating the thread throughout the duration of my time with it so it shouldn't come as a surprise when I do what I said I would do from the outset, thus seeing my name appear on more than one occasion.

I can see that you opted to avoid my question so shall I assume that you have similar thoughts to LeglessAlex? 

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Petrolhead95 said:

Torque, have you looked into the VRS variant of the Fabia? A couple of friends have theirs running over 200 horsepower and they're absolute weapons while still being usable on a daily basis. Just an idea.

I have considered a vRS Fabia but as I hinted to in a previous entry, I would like to experience a different brand. Do you know whether the potential gains have a negative effect on reliability? 

Edited by TorqueR on Wednesday 1st April 21:59

[TorqueR]

SOLD!

It was going to happen sooner rather than later but me and my first car have gone our separate ways this afternoon after buying a new car last week. I will do a final concluding post to summarise my thoughts on NX51 when I have more time but don't worry, it won't be war and peace.

In the meantime, I look forward to seeing how the next instalment to "Czech out my..." series goes with the updates from our resident ChunkyMonkey.

[TorqueR]

leglessAlex said:

What's going to replace it then?

Edited by TorqueR on Thursday 4th June 19:54

[TorqueR]

leglessAlex said:

Engine? What made you go for a Focus over something more nippy like a RenaultSport Clio or similar? Running costs?

It's the 1.6.

I considered the RenaultSport range, the Twingo 133, 182 Trophy, early 197's etc....but I couldn't find a decent example without going all over the country. Petrolhead95's experience put me off the Fiesta ST and if I overlooked that, it still suffers from a certain stereotype, rightly or wrongly, which put me off.

[TorqueR]

leglessAlex said:

Can't blame you for that, I'm put off cars like the Conti GT for similar reasons.

Are you going to modify it at all? I don't mean big wheels and such, I mean adding desirable OEM things that it doesn't have now. If you have ever seen threads by mwstewart, like that.

No plans as such but I have one or two things that I want to buy, nothing too adventurous but I will definitely go down the OEM+ route. It is always a pleasure to read his threads and I can try and implement the same ethos to my own threads. HorneyMX5 is another member who has gone down a similar route with his threads, albeit not as detailed as mwstewart.

Fun Bus said:

You do realise those wheel centres aren't correct for the car, don't you?

I hadn't realised that they weren't the standard centre caps but a quick Google reveals that you are correct. I personally prefer my current centre caps though so shall not lose sleep or change them.