Take it easy until you get used to it, but just enjoy it

If you've never driven a car without brake servos before you might be surprised how hard you have to push the pedal - just a get a feel for it before you give it the beans!

Make sure you strap yourself in tight. If the car is fitted with harnesses, you shouldn't be able to move your shoulders forward by more than about 4". Ensure that the keys to the car and the steering wheel (if removable!) are within easy reach before you do this!
Be aware that you have no ABS or TCS, so take care around low grip road surfaces.
Once the engine is warm, use the revvs- these cars really come alive when you're towards the top of the rev range, because the amount of engine braking you get at high engine RPMs and the engine's response and readiness to accelerate the car are sharper. Due to the low weight of these cars, if you approach a bend in too high a gear, the car will feel like it wants to 'push on' and it won't turn in as well. Get used to downshifting under braking before turns. They are so light that it is easy to get lazy and just grunt along using the torque in a high gear, but I guarantee you'll have more fun closer to the rev limit in a lower gear.
Don't leave the indicators on and don't forget to figure out how to work the immobiliser before you go!

^ As above, Also remember that 7s are very sensitive to set-up. It is worth getting a proper tracking set up done by someone who knows the cars and knows your intended use. If it feels overly unsettled and you feel that it's too responsive, or it is tramlining, you'll want to add some toe-in.

Drive with headlights on.

Don't brake in the middle of corners.

Don't accelerate too harshly out of corners.

Be alert for idiots.

Mainly have as much fun as possible with your cloths on.

Take sunscreen if really sunny.

I've been told to top up the tank whenever it gets to a 1/4 tank full because the gauge isn't that accurate.

Also, massive +1 on the sunscreen!

Unlike modern cars, if you stamp on the throttle it just thinks "you want more power? Ok!" rather than "that's not good for emissions- let me smooth that out for you". In other words you need to modulate the throttle more than you may be used to.

Steve

Thanks for all the advice. This is a really nice forum

Maybe no need for earplugs as it is a "continental" car, so extra exhaust silencer, I think. South France, by the way Mick ;-)

I'll tell you ASAP how is my first experience, fortunately with some pictures - and one thousand new questions!!!

Cheers!

Oh well, it's a bit late now, it's paid for It wasn't cheap either !

thanks for crane lendage Ben!


Benur-Don't forget to take your cheque book with you when you return the car!

Good old Arch ! and thanks for that Simon. I thought you'd be along soon

Back to the OP. Sold then ?