Best Smoker Barges 1-5 large [Vol 7]
Discussion
Others will have far more experience of the A8 but mine, after four months of ownership has been nothing but good. It's a 2003, a 4.2 petrol with currently just over 68,000 on the clock. I've spent a couple of hundred replacing a headlight unit, £470 to tidy up the bodywork (dent in the roof and a damaged skirt) and had to buy a new tyre (a Scottish rock ripped open a sidewall) and it's been serviced. It's been 100% reliable in 2,500 miles though occasionally when I start it (approx. one time in six) I get a brake error light but that occurred with the previous owner, was investigated and no fault found. The brakes have been checked again and perform faultlessly.
It's not a fully loaded car, doesn't have all the bells and whistles that some have but suits me as it only gets used for longer distance trips and weekends away. Fuel economy? Don't ask. It doesn't bother me as it's only a couple of mpg worse than my '63 Riley which also gets used for long trips.
The A8 is extremely comfortable, effortless to drive and satisfies in many ways but it isn't at its best on winding B-roads; obviously really as it's such a big brute but it's hard work on the 'twisties' - but then that's not what it was intended for, on motorways it's difficult to beat, completely at ease at any speed. Tweak the suspension settings and it's good fun on A-roads but you can never forget its bulk, it's no GTI despite its power and grip.
We love it, we really do but it does like Tesco Momentum fuel - lots of it....
It's not a fully loaded car, doesn't have all the bells and whistles that some have but suits me as it only gets used for longer distance trips and weekends away. Fuel economy? Don't ask. It doesn't bother me as it's only a couple of mpg worse than my '63 Riley which also gets used for long trips.
The A8 is extremely comfortable, effortless to drive and satisfies in many ways but it isn't at its best on winding B-roads; obviously really as it's such a big brute but it's hard work on the 'twisties' - but then that's not what it was intended for, on motorways it's difficult to beat, completely at ease at any speed. Tweak the suspension settings and it's good fun on A-roads but you can never forget its bulk, it's no GTI despite its power and grip.
We love it, we really do but it does like Tesco Momentum fuel - lots of it....
I've done 50k in my 2003 A8 with no dramas, just routine consumables, although the control arms are now rattling and creaking so need changing.
Info here......
http://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=...
Info here......
http://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=...
I monitor the A8 Parts Forum for tips and ideas but I'm not into updating it, it's OK as it is. BTW - I paid £4,650 for it back in June. The only thing I'm disappointed with is the Audi satnav, nowhere near as good as my TomTom but not wishing to sucker that to the screen I use the TomTom app on my phone. One thing I forgot, I bought some 18" wheels for winter tyres, it came with the multi-spoke 19" like Slippery's.
The A8 nav benefits from updating if yours is original from 2003 - requires the firmware updates running through it via CD in slot 1 of the CD changer, but doesn't take long. Worst case if it goes wrong is that you need component protection removing, but usually doesn't happen
Newer nav has much improved speed and graphics and the interface isn't bad for the frequency you need to enter addresses.
If you were local to me I'd offer to sort it as it's not difficult - done it to a few cars now. Just done the MMI updates on our new S5
Newer nav has much improved speed and graphics and the interface isn't bad for the frequency you need to enter addresses.
If you were local to me I'd offer to sort it as it's not difficult - done it to a few cars now. Just done the MMI updates on our new S5
BigBen said:
dom9 said:
Sterillium said:
That looks lovely and I can't spot any rust in the arches, in those pics - looks very clean!However, with those miles (although I guess most would argue it's barely run in and it doesn't look worn inside) - is it a bit pricey?
Nice wheels too
Is the Airmatic suspension good for these distances or will it need a good looking over in case it's hiding large bills?
Edited by dom9 on Tuesday 2nd September 08:35
Airmatic can have problems but no where near as worrisome as ABC suspension.
I think it is a bit pricey but does sound good, you would also have to factor in travel to Inverness. A colleague also bought a W211 estate at the same time as me and we both agree they are fantastic cars, very strong all rounders
Ben
I understand that the facelift (post-96 I think) was significantly better, but there's lots to like there I think. As a techno-phobe (only on grounds of potential repair cost) I reckon the lack of COMAND may be no bad thing (...?)
A very long 460 miles done in the 745i today.
It took forever largely because it was from the Lake District (with small windy roads) to Bridlington (no bloody motorway to get there!!!) and then from Bridlington back to Eastleigh.
Lots of 50mph limits (as a guess a good 50+ miles in total) which was a complete chore, lots of smaller roasd (certainly initially) and traffic wasn't ideal.
The 745i did very well and that "coughing/stuttering" problem is still appararent but only from 6k rpm now, it'll still get looked at next week.
Total driving time today....8hours and 15 mins. All I'll say is I'm glad I had a big barge to do it in!!
oh, and when allowed I was doing 90-95 and over that trip I averaged 28.5mpg, for those remotely interested.
It took forever largely because it was from the Lake District (with small windy roads) to Bridlington (no bloody motorway to get there!!!) and then from Bridlington back to Eastleigh.
Lots of 50mph limits (as a guess a good 50+ miles in total) which was a complete chore, lots of smaller roasd (certainly initially) and traffic wasn't ideal.
The 745i did very well and that "coughing/stuttering" problem is still appararent but only from 6k rpm now, it'll still get looked at next week.
Total driving time today....8hours and 15 mins. All I'll say is I'm glad I had a big barge to do it in!!
oh, and when allowed I was doing 90-95 and over that trip I averaged 28.5mpg, for those remotely interested.
Looks super tidy.
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2014...
BMW 3 SERIES 330i SE 5dr 3.0
51000 miles
INDIVIDUAL MODEL,VERY LOW MILEAGE ONLY 51000,SERVICED,NEW BRAKES,EXCELLENT CONDITION IN AND OUT,FULLY LOADED,HARMAN/CARDON HIFI,HEATED SEATS WITH LUMBAR SUPPORT+ SEAT MEMORI,FOLD IN MIRRORS,GOOD TYRES(MICHELIN PILOT SPORT3),MP3 CONNECTION,DETACHABLE TOWBAR,MULTI FUNCTION STEERING WHEEL,HEADLAMP WASHER SYSTEM,SPARE KEYS,, GREEN, 2 owners, Next MOT due 21/02/2015, Tax expires 31/12/2014, Full service history, Electric sunroof, Electric windows, Air conditioning, Parking aid, CD player, Leather trim, Heated seats, Height adjustable driver's seat, Height adjustable passenger seat, Folding rear seats, Child seat points (Isofix system), Metallic paint, Alloy wheels, Spare wheel (Full), Power steering, Steering wheel rake adjustment, Steering wheel reach adjustment, Cruise control, Traction control, Roof rails, Central locking, Alarm, Immobiliser, Driver's airbags, Side airbags, Passenger airbags. £3,995
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2014...
BMW 3 SERIES 330i SE 5dr 3.0
51000 miles
INDIVIDUAL MODEL,VERY LOW MILEAGE ONLY 51000,SERVICED,NEW BRAKES,EXCELLENT CONDITION IN AND OUT,FULLY LOADED,HARMAN/CARDON HIFI,HEATED SEATS WITH LUMBAR SUPPORT+ SEAT MEMORI,FOLD IN MIRRORS,GOOD TYRES(MICHELIN PILOT SPORT3),MP3 CONNECTION,DETACHABLE TOWBAR,MULTI FUNCTION STEERING WHEEL,HEADLAMP WASHER SYSTEM,SPARE KEYS,, GREEN, 2 owners, Next MOT due 21/02/2015, Tax expires 31/12/2014, Full service history, Electric sunroof, Electric windows, Air conditioning, Parking aid, CD player, Leather trim, Heated seats, Height adjustable driver's seat, Height adjustable passenger seat, Folding rear seats, Child seat points (Isofix system), Metallic paint, Alloy wheels, Spare wheel (Full), Power steering, Steering wheel rake adjustment, Steering wheel reach adjustment, Cruise control, Traction control, Roof rails, Central locking, Alarm, Immobiliser, Driver's airbags, Side airbags, Passenger airbags. £3,995
A rare and intriguing prospect with low miles, late reg, FSH and exclusivity guaranteed.
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Very-rare-Rover-75-limou...
Look at the LWB legroom!
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Very-rare-Rover-75-limou...
Look at the LWB legroom!
texasjohn said:
CharlesdeGaulle said:
I like the look of that.
I understand that the facelift (post-96 I think) was significantly better, but there's lots to like there I think. As a techno-phobe (only on grounds of potential repair cost) I reckon the lack of COMAND may be no bad thing (...?)
06 I understand that the facelift (post-96 I think) was significantly better, but there's lots to like there I think. As a techno-phobe (only on grounds of potential repair cost) I reckon the lack of COMAND may be no bad thing (...?)
Having said that mine is a pre jnr-facelift and is ace.
Ben
Caruso said:
A rare and intriguing prospect with low miles, late reg, FSH and exclusivity guaranteed.
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Very-rare-Rover-75-limou...
Wow!http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Very-rare-Rover-75-limou...
Never knew these existed...
edo said:
Looks super tidy.
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2014...
BMW 3 SERIES 330i SE 5dr 3.0
51000 miles
INDIVIDUAL MODEL,VERY LOW MILEAGE ONLY 51000,SERVICED,NEW BRAKES,EXCELLENT CONDITION IN AND OUT,FULLY LOADED,HARMAN/CARDON HIFI,HEATED SEATS WITH LUMBAR SUPPORT+ SEAT MEMORI,FOLD IN MIRRORS,GOOD TYRES(MICHELIN PILOT SPORT3),MP3 CONNECTION,DETACHABLE TOWBAR,MULTI FUNCTION STEERING WHEEL,HEADLAMP WASHER SYSTEM,SPARE KEYS,, GREEN, 2 owners, Next MOT due 21/02/2015, Tax expires 31/12/2014, Full service history, Electric sunroof, Electric windows, Air conditioning, Parking aid, CD player, Leather trim, Heated seats, Height adjustable driver's seat, Height adjustable passenger seat, Folding rear seats, Child seat points (Isofix system), Metallic paint, Alloy wheels, Spare wheel (Full), Power steering, Steering wheel rake adjustment, Steering wheel reach adjustment, Cruise control, Traction control, Roof rails, Central locking, Alarm, Immobiliser, Driver's airbags, Side airbags, Passenger airbags. £3,995
Nice colour and love the woodhttp://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2014...
BMW 3 SERIES 330i SE 5dr 3.0
51000 miles
INDIVIDUAL MODEL,VERY LOW MILEAGE ONLY 51000,SERVICED,NEW BRAKES,EXCELLENT CONDITION IN AND OUT,FULLY LOADED,HARMAN/CARDON HIFI,HEATED SEATS WITH LUMBAR SUPPORT+ SEAT MEMORI,FOLD IN MIRRORS,GOOD TYRES(MICHELIN PILOT SPORT3),MP3 CONNECTION,DETACHABLE TOWBAR,MULTI FUNCTION STEERING WHEEL,HEADLAMP WASHER SYSTEM,SPARE KEYS,, GREEN, 2 owners, Next MOT due 21/02/2015, Tax expires 31/12/2014, Full service history, Electric sunroof, Electric windows, Air conditioning, Parking aid, CD player, Leather trim, Heated seats, Height adjustable driver's seat, Height adjustable passenger seat, Folding rear seats, Child seat points (Isofix system), Metallic paint, Alloy wheels, Spare wheel (Full), Power steering, Steering wheel rake adjustment, Steering wheel reach adjustment, Cruise control, Traction control, Roof rails, Central locking, Alarm, Immobiliser, Driver's airbags, Side airbags, Passenger airbags. £3,995
Hello All,
After lurking for sometime on this thread, and hand wringing about running an old car - all your stories have helped! So ....
I've done it! - I swapped my newer old car (Mini Cooper D), for the world of the cheap barge. I present my Mercedes CLK 270CDI only £5K, with 75,000 gentle miles on the clock,(so just run in for these engines), I'm doing lots of miles with work so this seems like a sensible idea and fun too.
The interior (grey leather) and exterior are excellent for a 11 year old car, the previous owner has put a Motorola Bluetooth in and its has built in SatNav (which I think is going to be hideously out of date). It seems to have been serviced regularly at MB and then a specialist. The previous owner seems to have loved and looked after the old thing.
Only niggles so far are, the offside mirror has one of those stick on replacements on it, and its like the hall of mirrors at the circus! and the dealer I got it from has put a taxi quality front tyre on it (Event made in China
) so that will have to go after pay day.
It drives like new I'm wafting up the motorway in comfort and getting high 40's mpg. Now I have to ask why pay more for a car when you can have all this
After lurking for sometime on this thread, and hand wringing about running an old car - all your stories have helped! So ....
I've done it! - I swapped my newer old car (Mini Cooper D), for the world of the cheap barge. I present my Mercedes CLK 270CDI only £5K, with 75,000 gentle miles on the clock,(so just run in for these engines), I'm doing lots of miles with work so this seems like a sensible idea and fun too.
The interior (grey leather) and exterior are excellent for a 11 year old car, the previous owner has put a Motorola Bluetooth in and its has built in SatNav (which I think is going to be hideously out of date). It seems to have been serviced regularly at MB and then a specialist. The previous owner seems to have loved and looked after the old thing.
Only niggles so far are, the offside mirror has one of those stick on replacements on it, and its like the hall of mirrors at the circus! and the dealer I got it from has put a taxi quality front tyre on it (Event made in China
) so that will have to go after pay day.It drives like new I'm wafting up the motorway in comfort and getting high 40's mpg. Now I have to ask why pay more for a car when you can have all this
Caruso said:
A rare and intriguing prospect with low miles, late reg, FSH and exclusivity guaranteed.
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Very-rare-Rover-75-limou...
Look at the LWB legroom!
From what I understand, prey you never have a front end in it. Those front bumpers and radiator grill are nigh on impossible to find!http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Very-rare-Rover-75-limou...
Look at the LWB legroom!
Gassing Station | General Gassing | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff