LOH's 2016 Civic Type-R, contains spoilers**
Discussion
- and vents, red bits, four exhaust pipes etc etc.
Following on from my previous readers cars threads I was always going to start one for this, people seem to enjoy having a nosey but if I'm honest I like to write these things down as when I'm bored I like to read them back and relive the memories. I always seem to get up to a few adventures with the cars (after my air-cooled 911 days I refuse to wrap the cars up in cotton wool and leave them in the heated garage).
If you want to take a look at some of my older cars to get a feel for how I use them, then take a click on my MINI GP2 thread and my Porsche 911s
There wasn't even supposed to be a change of car for a while yet, or even if there was it certainly wasn't in mind to go and buy a civic. If you haven't read it, I explain a little in my MX5 diary especially towards the end of the thread but I'll go into more detail here.....
I'd actually taken a brief look at the Type-R a couple of months back, I know the lads who's sell at our local franchised dealer pretty well and called in mainly out of curiosity. I wasn't after a drive but I'm a car nut so why wouldn't you want to take a look? A bit like the Mazda, I've always appreciated Honda from afar, they just seem to put the right amount of effort into what I consider the right things-future technology, motorsport, F1 (badly!) etc etc
First impressions were of it's size and in a positive way-it's smaller than it looks in the mags and that's from someone who drives an MX5, I also thought it felt like a real premium product-nice interior, great build quality etc etc.
But that was before christmas I guess.....The weekend before last I was chilling with the family, I'd booked a trip over to the Nürburgring and Spa the following week and was getting some browny points before leaving the wife with a 12 week old baby and taking off on a jolly with the boys. However, as babies do she promptly decided to pass out and as I'd done my chores, I went into town for a bimble around and to look at the local specialist car dealership-there were a couple of Lotus' and 911s to try and convince myself of (now i need a family car natch).
How was I to know it shuts on Sunday?
Undeterred, I went up to Honda to take a look over the Type-R again and low and behold there was a Championship White car on the forecourt up for sale that we could take out. Knowing the sales team I was instructed to drive it however I liked and enjoy myself and I must admit, I really did
I obviously have form with hot hatches and regardless of the varying cars I've owned and how much more power it had over the MX5 I was seriously impressed.Let's be honest, the Type-R can be accused of having a bit of an image problem but I don't mind that one bit. I like the fact it does't blend in like a Golf R, or looks similar to it's lower powered siblings like the Focus RS, I might be chanced to go conservative on the body colour but I do (honestly) really like the look of them.
As it was a quiet afternoon my friend went over the pricing of the car after the test drive gave me a brochure and asked me what i thought. I don't think he thought I was serious but I said do some figures on the Mazda and let's see where it gets us to. Was I interested in the white second hand car? No in all honesty, but there was an unregistered new car in the Gunmetal Grey colour that IMHO looked about as good as was possible. If I was going to buy one, that would be it and as I'm sure we all know, if you're going to get a deal it always helps when there's one sitting unsold in the showroom getting the sales team twitchy
Being busy at work, I said I'd leave it a day or so and speak the next day. One thing led to another and by the time we'd got to Monday evening I was seriously tempted. Dad had came over to give me a hand swapping the wheels over on the MX5 before we headed to the 'ring the following day and we had a chat. Just as we were trying to come up with a decision, the salesman texted very pleased with himself as the dealer principal had lent him his own Type-R for the week. Figuring you don't ask, you don't get I told him to get it over to show the wife.
(you can see where this is obviously heading)
Isofix tried out, plenty of room even with the rear facing supadupa baby seat the precious cargo requires, buggy fits in the boot. At around 9pm, I sent a text over; "let's do the deal, if the car can be on the road for 3pm tomorrow I'll take it-can't be any later as I'll miss the ferry!"
I had a few things to sort out at work but I managed to get to Honda for just after 8am, sign the documents and go through the hand over process to save time for later. Get to work, get what needed done done and then away to pick up the car;
Edited by LaurasOtherHalf on Wednesday 4th May 14:16
The MINI GP thing is quite interesting as when I test drove it it was the first car i thought it reminded me of-I think it's the lairy nature of the car in the way it drives. My problem with the MINI however wasn't simply in the way it drove-it drove really well if you like that sort of thing (torque steering, camber hunting and very quick!), it was just not special enough and for a limited edition track inspired machine i just didn't get why that was?
Maybe it's the MINI brand and what it stands for? Maybe they haven't quite got the hang of doing the special thing as well as other manufactures, I haven't thought about it too much (and I explain in the thread on the car why MINI pissed me off so much with the car) but Honda do this sort of thing very well. Buying a car in a couple of days didn't leave too much time for research but the fact that Honda really push their sporting prowess really does it for me (I was the kid who got his picture taken in Aryton Senna's McLaren V12 at the very same dealership I bought the car from).
Looking around on the net I found lots of info from the press launch of the car, including some pictures. Ok, they're not of my particular car but I felt they showed me exactly what I was looking for in the car;
A bit of lean on track seems to get the stance sitting where you'd want it, losing the under wheeled look the car can have in some photos (which shouldn't happen with 19" wheels!)
Shift lights, everyone likes shift lights don't they?
The original bone of contention, the spoiler that isn't the spoiler on the concept car. I still have no idea why they showed the concept with the devil horn spoiler if it wasn't going to go into production, it certainly raised expectations to where they couldn't be matched. Does it look bad though? Let's just say you can't see it from the drivers seat!
Four exhaust tailpipes bad. Functioning Diffuser good I'm quite happy to have the tailpipes for the simple fact it pisses people off!
Sticky rubber and aero vents I do like however. The tyres are only 35 profile which may cause issues but they heat up remarkably quickly and get a real tack to them and the front arches are directly influenced by the BTCC/WTC cars. Proper
There's also a nice little micro-site for the car on Honda's website;
http://www.honda.co.uk/cars/new/civic-type-r-2015/...
And plenty of official YouTube videos including the ring record attempt;
https://youtu.be/a9G7N0_M9Rc
Maybe it's the MINI brand and what it stands for? Maybe they haven't quite got the hang of doing the special thing as well as other manufactures, I haven't thought about it too much (and I explain in the thread on the car why MINI pissed me off so much with the car) but Honda do this sort of thing very well. Buying a car in a couple of days didn't leave too much time for research but the fact that Honda really push their sporting prowess really does it for me (I was the kid who got his picture taken in Aryton Senna's McLaren V12 at the very same dealership I bought the car from).
Looking around on the net I found lots of info from the press launch of the car, including some pictures. Ok, they're not of my particular car but I felt they showed me exactly what I was looking for in the car;
A bit of lean on track seems to get the stance sitting where you'd want it, losing the under wheeled look the car can have in some photos (which shouldn't happen with 19" wheels!)
Shift lights, everyone likes shift lights don't they?
The original bone of contention, the spoiler that isn't the spoiler on the concept car. I still have no idea why they showed the concept with the devil horn spoiler if it wasn't going to go into production, it certainly raised expectations to where they couldn't be matched. Does it look bad though? Let's just say you can't see it from the drivers seat!
Four exhaust tailpipes bad. Functioning Diffuser good
I'm quite happy to have the tailpipes for the simple fact it pisses people off!
Sticky rubber and aero vents I do like however. The tyres are only 35 profile which may cause issues but they heat up remarkably quickly and get a real tack to them and the front arches are directly influenced by the BTCC/WTC cars. Proper
There's also a nice little micro-site for the car on Honda's website;
http://www.honda.co.uk/cars/new/civic-type-r-2015/...
And plenty of official YouTube videos including the ring record attempt;
https://youtu.be/a9G7N0_M9Rc
Honda's Official Press Release said:
A HOT-HATCH ICON REBORN: ALL-NEW HONDA CIVIC TYPE R ENGINEERED TO BE A ‘RACE CAR FOR THE ROAD’
Production version of Civic Type R revealed at 2015 Geneva Motor Show
Characterful, high-revving all-new 2.0 litre VTEC TURBO engine offers greater power, torque and response than any previous Honda production car engine
Function dictates form – eye-catching styling enhancements optimise airflow to aid performance and stability
Advanced new suspension systems, unique to the Type R, ensure rewarding handling characteristics and maximise power transfer
New +R mode increases the response of chassis and engine for enhanced driving thrills
Under development the Civic Type R has achieved a top speed of 270 km/h
After a five year wait, 2015 sees the arrival of the world's most keenly anticipated hot hatch, the Honda Civic Type R. Billed as a ‘race car for the road', the all-new Civic Type R will set new standards in the high-performance front-wheel drive hatchback segment.
Type R vehicles have garnered a cult following around the world and the new model more than lives up to the high expectations. A world-first application of Honda's new 2.0 litre VTEC TURBO engine, aggressive function-led styling, and pioneering new chassis technologies combine to deliver one of the most immersive and rewarding driving experiences available in any sector.
The new 2015 Civic Type R will be powered by the most extreme and high-performing engine in the 22-year history of the red ‘H' badge, signalling the start of a new performance era for the Honda brand.
All-new turbocharged 2.0 litre VTEC TURBO engine
At the heart of the Civic Type R is an all-new, direct-injected turbocharged 2.0 litre VTEC TURBO petrol engine, which delivers power, torque and performance figures unmatched in the front-wheel drive hot hatch segment. Peak power output is 310 PS* at 6,500 rpm, and peak torque is 400 Nm* at 2,500 rpm – both higher than for any previous Honda Type R model.
Red-lining at 7,000 rpm, the engine – part of Honda's next-generation Earth Dreams Technology series – features an advanced new turbocharger with VTEC technology that boosts low-end torque and delivers sustained acceleration.
The Civic Type R's blistering performance is unmatched in the front-wheel drive hot hatch segment: the 0-to-100 km/h (62 mph) sprint is covered in just 5.7 seconds* – making it the fastest accelerating performance front-wheel drive hatchback – and top speed, where permitted, is a class-leading 270 km/h (167 mph)*.
The new engine is mated to a slick-shifting six-speed manual transmission, safeguarding an intimate, rewarding connection with the drivetrain, and power is directed through the front wheels.
Function dictates form
The styling changes that are unique to the Civic Type R give the car an aggressive, purposeful stance, yet almost all have a functional purpose. The sleek and aerodynamically-efficient design reflects a car developed to perform at speed. The focus on aerodynamics has ensured high-speed stability and high levels of downforce.
To achieve this aim, the Civic Type R was subject to exhaustive aerodynamic analysis, testing and development. The development team tirelessly pursued its objectives through computer-based CFD modelling and wind tunnel testing at Honda's dedicated automotive motorsports facility in Sakura, Japan; home of Honda's Formula One engine development.
This development work was validated through extensive prototype testing both on the road and on track, including at the Suzuka Formula One circuit, the Nürburgring Nordschleife and at the company's Takasu test facility.
A new, almost completely flat underside aids airflow under the vehicle and combines with a rear diffuser to optimise downforce – effectively ‘sucking' the car onto the road.
The rear wing has been reimagined from the Type R Concept. The structure of the airfoil – its angle, height and shape as well as its vertical end plates – have been carefully engineered to optimise downforce without causing a significant increase in drag at higher speeds. This helps improve road-holding abilities, particularly through high-speed corners.
A wide front splitter and deep side skirts also manage airflow and reduce lift, while the front bumper has been shaped specifically to inhibit air turbulence around the front wheels, enhancing high-speed stability and reducing lift forces.
Heat management was another major focus for the design team, influencing several prominent external design modifications. Enlarged upper and lower grilles in the front bumper allow greater volume of cooling air into the engine bay. The airflow is channelled to outlet vents above the wheels on the front quarter panels and vents at the trailing edges of the widened front wheel arches to provide greater cooling and ventilation for the high-output engine.
New lightweight, high rigidity 19-inch alloy wheels, unique to the Type R, complement the visual changes. They fill the enlarged wheel arches with 235/35R19 tyres that were developed specially for the Type R.
To help the driver manage the Type R's prodigious power, the car is equipped with a high performance Brembo brake package, developed specifically for the car. At the front, four-piston calipers apply braking force to 350 mm drilled discs.
The Type R is available in five distinctive colours that give the purposeful new styling added visual impact. As well as Championship White – shared with successive generations of iconic Type R vehicles – buyers can choose from Crystal Black (pearlescent), Polished Metal (metallic), Brilliant Sporty Blue (metallic) and Milano Red.
A cabin with a sporting ambience
A range of aesthetic and functional upgrades within the cabin reinforce the Type R's sporting character. As with previous Type R models, the gear lever knob is made from machined aluminium alloy. High-backed sports seats, trimmed in suede-effect black fabric with red double stitching, provide driver and front-seat passenger with ample lateral support during harder cornering.
Matching red double stitching also appears on the black leather-clad steering wheel and black gear-lever gaiter. The roof-lining is trimmed in black fabric, augmenting the focused ambience.
New suspension technologies for a rewarding, more agile drive
A number of innovative new suspension systems, unique to the Type R, have been introduced to produce rewarding handling characteristics and to maximise power transfer to the road.
A new four-point Adaptive Damper System, developed specifically for the Type R, enables continuous independent control of each wheel to deliver exceptional road holding performance, limit wheel-load transfer during sharp acceleration and deceleration, and to maintain a stable, flat ride. It also means that the ride is more comfortable and supple in everyday driving and cruising.
An advanced Dual Axis Strut Front Suspension system helps to reduce torque steer by 50 per cent compared to the standard Civic's suspension set up, enhancing high speed stability, on-the-limit cornering and steering feel. At the rear, Type R's H-shaped torsion beam suspension is constructed with a bespoke ‘crushed pipe' which improves rear roll rigidity by 180 per cent, further enhancing stability in high-speed corners.
These systems are complemented by Dual Pinion Electric Power Steering, which helps to deliver rapid yet linear steering response and abundant feel.
New ‘+R' mode increases responses for enhanced driving thrills
The new Civic Type R will mark the debut of the new ‘+R' button that increases the response of various chassis and drivetrain systems. The result is an even more intense driving experience, ideal for the track and sure to be appreciated by the genuine sports-driving enthusiast.
When +R mode is activated, engine responsiveness is heightened, with torque-mapping changed to a more aggressive and performance-focused setting. Steering receives reduced power assistance and is therefore more responsive to driver inputs, and basic damping force from the new four-point Adaptive Damper System is increased by 30 per cent. This means the behaviour of the car is firmer and more agile for high-performance handling.
All-new GT Pack offers further enhancements
Customers will have the option to specify their new Civic Type R with an all-new GT Pack.
Externally, the GT Pack adds signature red highlights to the front and rear splitters for even greater eye-catching impact, but it's under the skin where the GT Pack's most significant upgrades will be found.
The driver will benefit from extra convenience features such as front and rear parking sensors, dusk sensing headlamps, rain sensing automatic wipers and electric fold door mirrors. Integrated Garmin satellite navigation (including five years of free map updates) is added to the Honda Connect infotainment system. Audiophiles will be attracted by the addition of a CD player and a premium eight-speaker, 320 watt stereo system upgrade.
All occupants will appreciate automatic dual zone climate control air conditioning, and sophistication in the cabin is also boosted by red ambient lighting.
The GT Pack also includes Honda's Advanced Driver Assist Systems. This comprehensive suite of sensor-based safety technologies includes Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Traffic Sign Recognition system, High-Beam Support System, Blind Spot Information and Cross Traffic Monitor.
Honda's City-Brake Active system will be fitted as standard on the Civic Type R.
The all-new Honda Civic Type R will go on sale across Europe from this summer. Full vehicle specifications will be announced in due course.
Production version of Civic Type R revealed at 2015 Geneva Motor Show
Characterful, high-revving all-new 2.0 litre VTEC TURBO engine offers greater power, torque and response than any previous Honda production car engine
Function dictates form – eye-catching styling enhancements optimise airflow to aid performance and stability
Advanced new suspension systems, unique to the Type R, ensure rewarding handling characteristics and maximise power transfer
New +R mode increases the response of chassis and engine for enhanced driving thrills
Under development the Civic Type R has achieved a top speed of 270 km/h
After a five year wait, 2015 sees the arrival of the world's most keenly anticipated hot hatch, the Honda Civic Type R. Billed as a ‘race car for the road', the all-new Civic Type R will set new standards in the high-performance front-wheel drive hatchback segment.
Type R vehicles have garnered a cult following around the world and the new model more than lives up to the high expectations. A world-first application of Honda's new 2.0 litre VTEC TURBO engine, aggressive function-led styling, and pioneering new chassis technologies combine to deliver one of the most immersive and rewarding driving experiences available in any sector.
The new 2015 Civic Type R will be powered by the most extreme and high-performing engine in the 22-year history of the red ‘H' badge, signalling the start of a new performance era for the Honda brand.
All-new turbocharged 2.0 litre VTEC TURBO engine
At the heart of the Civic Type R is an all-new, direct-injected turbocharged 2.0 litre VTEC TURBO petrol engine, which delivers power, torque and performance figures unmatched in the front-wheel drive hot hatch segment. Peak power output is 310 PS* at 6,500 rpm, and peak torque is 400 Nm* at 2,500 rpm – both higher than for any previous Honda Type R model.
Red-lining at 7,000 rpm, the engine – part of Honda's next-generation Earth Dreams Technology series – features an advanced new turbocharger with VTEC technology that boosts low-end torque and delivers sustained acceleration.
The Civic Type R's blistering performance is unmatched in the front-wheel drive hot hatch segment: the 0-to-100 km/h (62 mph) sprint is covered in just 5.7 seconds* – making it the fastest accelerating performance front-wheel drive hatchback – and top speed, where permitted, is a class-leading 270 km/h (167 mph)*.
The new engine is mated to a slick-shifting six-speed manual transmission, safeguarding an intimate, rewarding connection with the drivetrain, and power is directed through the front wheels.
Function dictates form
The styling changes that are unique to the Civic Type R give the car an aggressive, purposeful stance, yet almost all have a functional purpose. The sleek and aerodynamically-efficient design reflects a car developed to perform at speed. The focus on aerodynamics has ensured high-speed stability and high levels of downforce.
To achieve this aim, the Civic Type R was subject to exhaustive aerodynamic analysis, testing and development. The development team tirelessly pursued its objectives through computer-based CFD modelling and wind tunnel testing at Honda's dedicated automotive motorsports facility in Sakura, Japan; home of Honda's Formula One engine development.
This development work was validated through extensive prototype testing both on the road and on track, including at the Suzuka Formula One circuit, the Nürburgring Nordschleife and at the company's Takasu test facility.
A new, almost completely flat underside aids airflow under the vehicle and combines with a rear diffuser to optimise downforce – effectively ‘sucking' the car onto the road.
The rear wing has been reimagined from the Type R Concept. The structure of the airfoil – its angle, height and shape as well as its vertical end plates – have been carefully engineered to optimise downforce without causing a significant increase in drag at higher speeds. This helps improve road-holding abilities, particularly through high-speed corners.
A wide front splitter and deep side skirts also manage airflow and reduce lift, while the front bumper has been shaped specifically to inhibit air turbulence around the front wheels, enhancing high-speed stability and reducing lift forces.
Heat management was another major focus for the design team, influencing several prominent external design modifications. Enlarged upper and lower grilles in the front bumper allow greater volume of cooling air into the engine bay. The airflow is channelled to outlet vents above the wheels on the front quarter panels and vents at the trailing edges of the widened front wheel arches to provide greater cooling and ventilation for the high-output engine.
New lightweight, high rigidity 19-inch alloy wheels, unique to the Type R, complement the visual changes. They fill the enlarged wheel arches with 235/35R19 tyres that were developed specially for the Type R.
To help the driver manage the Type R's prodigious power, the car is equipped with a high performance Brembo brake package, developed specifically for the car. At the front, four-piston calipers apply braking force to 350 mm drilled discs.
The Type R is available in five distinctive colours that give the purposeful new styling added visual impact. As well as Championship White – shared with successive generations of iconic Type R vehicles – buyers can choose from Crystal Black (pearlescent), Polished Metal (metallic), Brilliant Sporty Blue (metallic) and Milano Red.
A cabin with a sporting ambience
A range of aesthetic and functional upgrades within the cabin reinforce the Type R's sporting character. As with previous Type R models, the gear lever knob is made from machined aluminium alloy. High-backed sports seats, trimmed in suede-effect black fabric with red double stitching, provide driver and front-seat passenger with ample lateral support during harder cornering.
Matching red double stitching also appears on the black leather-clad steering wheel and black gear-lever gaiter. The roof-lining is trimmed in black fabric, augmenting the focused ambience.
New suspension technologies for a rewarding, more agile drive
A number of innovative new suspension systems, unique to the Type R, have been introduced to produce rewarding handling characteristics and to maximise power transfer to the road.
A new four-point Adaptive Damper System, developed specifically for the Type R, enables continuous independent control of each wheel to deliver exceptional road holding performance, limit wheel-load transfer during sharp acceleration and deceleration, and to maintain a stable, flat ride. It also means that the ride is more comfortable and supple in everyday driving and cruising.
An advanced Dual Axis Strut Front Suspension system helps to reduce torque steer by 50 per cent compared to the standard Civic's suspension set up, enhancing high speed stability, on-the-limit cornering and steering feel. At the rear, Type R's H-shaped torsion beam suspension is constructed with a bespoke ‘crushed pipe' which improves rear roll rigidity by 180 per cent, further enhancing stability in high-speed corners.
These systems are complemented by Dual Pinion Electric Power Steering, which helps to deliver rapid yet linear steering response and abundant feel.
New ‘+R' mode increases responses for enhanced driving thrills
The new Civic Type R will mark the debut of the new ‘+R' button that increases the response of various chassis and drivetrain systems. The result is an even more intense driving experience, ideal for the track and sure to be appreciated by the genuine sports-driving enthusiast.
When +R mode is activated, engine responsiveness is heightened, with torque-mapping changed to a more aggressive and performance-focused setting. Steering receives reduced power assistance and is therefore more responsive to driver inputs, and basic damping force from the new four-point Adaptive Damper System is increased by 30 per cent. This means the behaviour of the car is firmer and more agile for high-performance handling.
All-new GT Pack offers further enhancements
Customers will have the option to specify their new Civic Type R with an all-new GT Pack.
Externally, the GT Pack adds signature red highlights to the front and rear splitters for even greater eye-catching impact, but it's under the skin where the GT Pack's most significant upgrades will be found.
The driver will benefit from extra convenience features such as front and rear parking sensors, dusk sensing headlamps, rain sensing automatic wipers and electric fold door mirrors. Integrated Garmin satellite navigation (including five years of free map updates) is added to the Honda Connect infotainment system. Audiophiles will be attracted by the addition of a CD player and a premium eight-speaker, 320 watt stereo system upgrade.
All occupants will appreciate automatic dual zone climate control air conditioning, and sophistication in the cabin is also boosted by red ambient lighting.
The GT Pack also includes Honda's Advanced Driver Assist Systems. This comprehensive suite of sensor-based safety technologies includes Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Traffic Sign Recognition system, High-Beam Support System, Blind Spot Information and Cross Traffic Monitor.
Honda's City-Brake Active system will be fitted as standard on the Civic Type R.
The all-new Honda Civic Type R will go on sale across Europe from this summer. Full vehicle specifications will be announced in due course.
- Honda internal figures
Deerfoot said:
Robins said:
Nice write up and it looks fantastic in grey!!
Best colour for the new CTR (IMHO).How much rear space do the front seat backs use up? I know you mentioned you could get a baby seat in the back but could you say fit a 6 foot bloke behind a 6 foot driver?
As for rear seat legroom, I'd have to check but I can't imagine there would be too much of an issue. Me and the lad I go to the Nürburgring with are both around 5'9-10" and can easily sit in the front and back, 6' I couldn't imagine being much worse as i had plenty of headroom in the back.
Usget said:
Which dealer is this, and did you get a £2k finance contribution (like it says in the picture)? Most dealer websites only seem to offer that against the cooking models...
The dealer in question is Lloyd Honda Carlisle, I couldn't tell you what finance offers they have and as I am friends with the salesman in particular I don't feel I want to publicise any deal i got on an open forum. I will say there are deals to be made however and I feel I got fantastic value for money on the deal considering the MX5 went into the deal.750turbo said:
Cracking write up LOH, I "think" that I am the only other owner of the new model on here so far.
I have a Black one, I just cannot keep it clean whatsoever.
It has raised more comments on 1 month of ownership, than my last cars added together! ust say it really has polarised opinions on here though!
Any photos 750turbo? I'd love to see some, I did actually say the other colour I'd go for would be black as it would really remind me of the old R35 GTR but then I didn't have to clean that-I had my M3csl in Black and I could never keep the damned thing clean!I have a Black one, I just cannot keep it clean whatsoever.
It has raised more comments on 1 month of ownership, than my last cars added together! ust say it really has polarised opinions on here though!
When I saw the "Polished Metal" as it's called in the showroom however I knew that was the one for me-it's got a lot of metal flake to it and looked great under the lights.
Is yours a GT? I imagine the black looks terrific with the red pinstripes
So as I said in the first post, the car was prepped and ready to pick up by 3pm the following day (Tuesday), perfect as we had to get to Hull to catch the brilliant overnight service to Rotterdam for a few days out at the 'ring and spa.
The car was registered on an age related plate as obviously things were moved quick to get the car on the road. The car actually failed the PDI as the wheel nuts had some surface rust on them, it was explained that Honda would not let that type of thing go (I guess when your regular customers are old gimmers you learn to get pedantic over details!) bless 'em.
There were no floor mats in stock either so they grabbed the ones out of the second hand car from the forecourt to save the interior-nice little touches eh?
A quick final go over things (as mentioned we did all the handover stuff such as connecting the car my phone first thing that morning) on the forecourt and it was goodbye Mazda-I genuinely will miss it! The handover was excellent but there really is so much tech on the car there is a bloomin' lot to learn but if I'm honest, after having decidedly low tech cars over the last few years I'm really looking forward to learning it all. Plenty of time to study the book on the way to Germany after all.
Straight back home as Ross who was coming on the trip with me was meeting me there, I put it in the garage as he'd been away working and like pretty much everyone else, had no idea I'd suddenly decided to change the car. As you can imagine, his face was a picture! He's only in his 20's and was very excited at getting the chance to drive such a powerful car.
Quick picture with the family to mark the occasion;
And we were on our way...........
To snow!
The car was registered on an age related plate as obviously things were moved quick to get the car on the road. The car actually failed the PDI as the wheel nuts had some surface rust on them, it was explained that Honda would not let that type of thing go (I guess when your regular customers are old gimmers you learn to get pedantic over details!) bless 'em.
There were no floor mats in stock either so they grabbed the ones out of the second hand car from the forecourt to save the interior-nice little touches eh?
A quick final go over things (as mentioned we did all the handover stuff such as connecting the car my phone first thing that morning) on the forecourt and it was goodbye Mazda-I genuinely will miss it! The handover was excellent but there really is so much tech on the car there is a bloomin' lot to learn but if I'm honest, after having decidedly low tech cars over the last few years I'm really looking forward to learning it all. Plenty of time to study the book on the way to Germany after all.
Straight back home as Ross who was coming on the trip with me was meeting me there, I put it in the garage as he'd been away working and like pretty much everyone else, had no idea I'd suddenly decided to change the car. As you can imagine, his face was a picture! He's only in his 20's and was very excited at getting the chance to drive such a powerful car.
Quick picture with the family to mark the occasion;
And we were on our way...........
To snow!
Edited by LaurasOtherHalf on Sunday 10th November 19:46
750turbo said:
No pics yet, weather has been grim up North, and been busy with work and home stuff.
It is a GT, ex demo, with 2300 miles, and service pack, £27,500. Price seems to be OK I think.
I was out putting my private plate on it an hour ago, and one of the young local lads stopped, and started asking me all about it (I stay in a small village in South Ayrshire), so I was happy to oblige, as I said, I have had more comments about this than any of my other cars (and bikes for that matter)
Not sure where we are with Oil Usage, I keep an eye in this like a hawk, not used a drop in 3,000 miles I have added, saying that, it is a good job as my local dealer is saying that the oil needs to be ordered directly from Castrol? (I could have got it from Cox's, online I suppose, but I like having a mooch around the Dealer to be honest)
Cheers
I think the nearly new ones are superb buys, this was the one I test drove;It is a GT, ex demo, with 2300 miles, and service pack, £27,500. Price seems to be OK I think.
I was out putting my private plate on it an hour ago, and one of the young local lads stopped, and started asking me all about it (I stay in a small village in South Ayrshire), so I was happy to oblige, as I said, I have had more comments about this than any of my other cars (and bikes for that matter)
Not sure where we are with Oil Usage, I keep an eye in this like a hawk, not used a drop in 3,000 miles I have added, saying that, it is a good job as my local dealer is saying that the oil needs to be ordered directly from Castrol? (I could have got it from Cox's, online I suppose, but I like having a mooch around the Dealer to be honest)
Cheers
http://usedcars.lloydmotors.carlisle-honda.co.uk/s...
I was told by the sales team to watch the oil level very carefully too but over my whole trip it didn't use a drop, they told me it's only 0-20 in it and it will be changed to something else at first service. Not sure how correct that is
You're not too much further up north than us so get some photos posted up
black must be the rarest colour you reckon? I've certainly not seen one yet. Do you ever do any of the Sottish Borders runs? RemyMartin said:
Redline at 7000rpm...fail.
Aye, the same as my 993 varioram RS replica and a whole 300rpm more than my 911 3.0, y'know, the one with the "high revvin'" engine everyone wanted It's an interesting point however, what was your thoughts on the engine when you drove it? I'll be honest, I feel like it revs and revs-7K rpm doesn't feel like you're getting short changed-if I didn't have a rev counter in front of me, would I know it was 7K rather than 8K? I'm not so sure.....
The little Mazda rev'd to 8K and I'm such a fan of four pot N/A engines but I'll be honest, there was no joy to revving it out - it just felt a little strangled above 7K.
Personally, I feel there's so much more to how a car feels than a simple number on a dial.
Nürburgring at the end of April, what could possibly go wrong? Well if you've read any of my previous threads or indeed the previous page of this thread then you'll know it'll be snow. I don't know why i'm surprised.....
So heading over the A66 the signs were ominous, and when i say ominous I mean we were driving through a full on blizzard. Listening to Prince (RIP) Thank god to be back in a car capable of picking up 6Music again.
We set off latish but knew we realistically had enough time to make the crossing and did so not long before the cut off for getting the car on
The snow was bad on the high ground over the pennines but it was back to sunshine by the time we hit the yorkshire riviera that is Hull. The weather forecast wasn't that great for the crossing however but we'd put that thought to the back of our minds...
As soon as bags were dumped in our luxurious two birth en suite cabin we headed down to the bar for a beer and to let the wags know we'd arrived to the first leg safe and sound. I also remembered that I'd replied to a post on the Nürburgring thread from someone who was on the same crossing, I'd noticed two guys that i vaguely recognised (I'm terrible with names and faces) but on introducing ourselves it was indeed PH's very own ringmiester Wh00sher. If you don't know him or what he's built/done take a look through one of his threads;
http://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&a...
It's worth a read, I guarantee you'll be amazed at what he's done. Anyways, we had a few beers and then dinner and took on board his tales of how he's become so good on track. We've been doing the 'ring not far off the same amount of time but Nige has taken an altogether more professional approach to track driving than I ever have, and it shows! Don't believe me? Click the link;
http://www.bridgetogantry.com/video-diy-golf-mk2-v...
Regardless of our individual skill sets there's one underlying vibe on these trips, we're all proper petrolheads and it's great to get to spend time with like minded enthusiasts. Where else do you bump into a guy that has bought a brand new car that very day and has decided to take it to the 'ring talking to a guy that has build and developed his own car who is doing the same thing? Happy days.
The weather was really starting to pick up as the evening wore on and in order to negate the rolling swell we took comfort in the bar. Some things never change....
After being rocked to sleep, we awoke to a few hours drive that would see us in Nürburg by lunch time. Plenty of time to sign on to the following days trackday with Destination Nurburg and check the car over before buying some laps for that evenings TF. The car had performed with aplomb on the UK leg of the trip so far but a strange country on the wrong side of the road can make you see cars in a different light I've always found. After disembarking into rain, we'd pretty much soon find out....
So heading over the A66 the signs were ominous, and when i say ominous I mean we were driving through a full on blizzard. Listening to Prince (RIP)
Thank god to be back in a car capable of picking up 6Music again.We set off latish but knew we realistically had enough time to make the crossing and did so not long before the cut off for getting the car on
The snow was bad on the high ground over the pennines but it was back to sunshine by the time we hit the yorkshire riviera that is Hull. The weather forecast wasn't that great for the crossing however but we'd put that thought to the back of our minds...
As soon as bags were dumped in our luxurious two birth en suite cabin we headed down to the bar for a beer and to let the wags know we'd arrived to the first leg safe and sound. I also remembered that I'd replied to a post on the Nürburgring thread from someone who was on the same crossing, I'd noticed two guys that i vaguely recognised (I'm terrible with names and faces) but on introducing ourselves it was indeed PH's very own ringmiester Wh00sher. If you don't know him or what he's built/done take a look through one of his threads;
http://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&a...
It's worth a read, I guarantee you'll be amazed at what he's done. Anyways, we had a few beers and then dinner and took on board his tales of how he's become so good on track. We've been doing the 'ring not far off the same amount of time but Nige has taken an altogether more professional approach to track driving than I ever have, and it shows! Don't believe me? Click the link;
http://www.bridgetogantry.com/video-diy-golf-mk2-v...
Regardless of our individual skill sets there's one underlying vibe on these trips, we're all proper petrolheads and it's great to get to spend time with like minded enthusiasts. Where else do you bump into a guy that has bought a brand new car that very day and has decided to take it to the 'ring talking to a guy that has build and developed his own car who is doing the same thing? Happy days.
The weather was really starting to pick up as the evening wore on and in order to negate the rolling swell we took comfort in the bar. Some things never change....
After being rocked to sleep, we awoke to a few hours drive that would see us in Nürburg by lunch time. Plenty of time to sign on to the following days trackday with Destination Nurburg and check the car over before buying some laps for that evenings TF. The car had performed with aplomb on the UK leg of the trip so far but a strange country on the wrong side of the road can make you see cars in a different light I've always found. After disembarking into rain, we'd pretty much soon find out....
Edited by LaurasOtherHalf on Wednesday 4th May 22:12
Edited by LaurasOtherHalf on Sunday 10th November 19:52
A quick update to the thread but one that will perhaps answer a few questions....
We set off at a pretty steady pan-european gate of 85-90. Although there was rain it had mainly blown away so there wasn't too much spray and where there was we could reduce things down to 70mph or so and keep comfortably ahead of local traffic without drawing too much attention to ourselves.
The seats, as pinched in and grippy as they are are supremely comfortable in normal driving conditions and with the dampers in normal mode the car has great pliancy at motorway speeds. The car, much like the GTR fusses at slow speeds, the diff winds itself up, the chassis is incredibly stiff (it cocks a leg turning into our drive for instance where dad's cayman S doesn't) and the dampers make the car extremely firm. Although the roads of Holland, Belgium and North West Germany are much improved these days (remember the road of bones to the 'ring?) there are still large swathes of concrete slab based motorways to test out a cars comfort levels.
Is the Type-R better on smoother tarmac? Of course but it seems to find a natural gate at motorway speeds where everything comes together and nothing seem to impede on your comfort. And it is comfortable in those seats too. While on track you might want the sets a little lower in regular driving the position is perfect, great vision of your surroundings, an adjustable (for rake and reach) steering column and everything exactly where you need it. Japanese cars do seem to do the basics of ergonomics very well.
And then there's the tech, which I'd love to tell you all about but if I'm honest I still haven't figured out just what exactly everything does. A few important parts I have however, first and foremost is the blind spot indicators that make driving abroad a doddle by simply flashing an orange warning when something is there or an audible warning if you're indicating or changing lanes. There is a lane departure warning too but i turned that off as part of the hand over along with the front alarm to tell you you're too close to the car in front. We figured this might prove an annoyance on track!
It also has a function that automatically brakes if you're about to roll into another car at a junction or roundabout and I think this works in conjunction with the adaptive cruise control. Although I only tend to use cruise through roadworks it also has a speed limit function where you can set your list to say 50mph through roadworks but still drive the car by the throttle in moving traffic-handier than it sounds if going above 50mph means a ticket.
All the while the car is connected via bluetooth to my phone with various podcasts to listen to when you get sick of radio europa's none stop 80's power rock
As many will know around the 'ring there are some awesome roads and we were in no rush (the track didn't open until 5pm) so we had a little play now the car was getting nicely run in. The roads are well sighted with plenty of hairpins and fast sweeping corners so you can really start to open things up, with caution as it happens especially in these wet conditions.
Traction control? I'm sure it's doing something but in these wet conditions around the 'ring it would let you spin up the tyres in most gears if you were viscous enough with the throttle. Weird thing was no intervention (that I could notice) from the TC, just some spin before the diff locked up away it went-no torque steer at all.
This was a total first for me in a front wheel drive car, it just did not wander at all. Come out of a corner, stamp on the throttle, feel one wheel then the other spin up before a fraction later the diff locks and it furiously pulls you out and rockets you up the road. This was of course, when driving like a hooligan and you could easily make the car more precise and clinical but it seemed to bode well that even my clumsy attempts to tie the chassis in knots didn't seem to do much.
Once actually at the 'ring and with bags dumped at the guesthouse we went for a mooch about. If you've ever been to the track in winter you'll know that there's next to bugger all to do when the weather is bad and we were sat in sleet and rain. We signed on for the following days DN trackway, hit the Blau Ecke for a mega burger and waited it out
On our way down to Adenauer we spied the new Focus RS and Mustang V8 being photo'd for a video or magazine spread and they had stopped at Pinochios in town so we stopped and had a good nosey. There was never a decision for me of the RS v's the Type-R as if I'm honest the Focus just does nothing for me, no matter how much quicker it will be than the Civic but seeing it in the metal just confirmed my thoughts. We did have a brief chat with one of the journalists however and he was mega impressed with it-said it was absolutely fantastic around the 'ring-especially in these winter conditions.
The Mustang? I think his words were "a piece of s
t, the most dangerous car I've ever driven here". Still, it made a lovely noise....
After meeting up with the rest of our group as soon as they rolled into town we headed up to the 'ring car park to purchase some laps. The weather was thankfully blowing itself dry although the snow must have put most people off as the place was pretty empty. Barriers up at 5pm and the first of my 2016 laps in our cars for the trip;
We set off at a pretty steady pan-european gate of 85-90. Although there was rain it had mainly blown away so there wasn't too much spray and where there was we could reduce things down to 70mph or so and keep comfortably ahead of local traffic without drawing too much attention to ourselves.
The seats, as pinched in and grippy as they are are supremely comfortable in normal driving conditions and with the dampers in normal mode the car has great pliancy at motorway speeds. The car, much like the GTR fusses at slow speeds, the diff winds itself up, the chassis is incredibly stiff (it cocks a leg turning into our drive for instance where dad's cayman S doesn't) and the dampers make the car extremely firm. Although the roads of Holland, Belgium and North West Germany are much improved these days (remember the road of bones to the 'ring?) there are still large swathes of concrete slab based motorways to test out a cars comfort levels.
Is the Type-R better on smoother tarmac? Of course but it seems to find a natural gate at motorway speeds where everything comes together and nothing seem to impede on your comfort. And it is comfortable in those seats too. While on track you might want the sets a little lower in regular driving the position is perfect, great vision of your surroundings, an adjustable (for rake and reach) steering column and everything exactly where you need it. Japanese cars do seem to do the basics of ergonomics very well.
And then there's the tech, which I'd love to tell you all about but if I'm honest I still haven't figured out just what exactly everything does. A few important parts I have however, first and foremost is the blind spot indicators that make driving abroad a doddle by simply flashing an orange warning when something is there or an audible warning if you're indicating or changing lanes. There is a lane departure warning too but i turned that off as part of the hand over along with the front alarm to tell you you're too close to the car in front. We figured this might prove an annoyance on track!
It also has a function that automatically brakes if you're about to roll into another car at a junction or roundabout and I think this works in conjunction with the adaptive cruise control. Although I only tend to use cruise through roadworks it also has a speed limit function where you can set your list to say 50mph through roadworks but still drive the car by the throttle in moving traffic-handier than it sounds if going above 50mph means a ticket.
All the while the car is connected via bluetooth to my phone with various podcasts to listen to when you get sick of radio europa's none stop 80's power rock
As many will know around the 'ring there are some awesome roads and we were in no rush (the track didn't open until 5pm) so we had a little play now the car was getting nicely run in. The roads are well sighted with plenty of hairpins and fast sweeping corners so you can really start to open things up, with caution as it happens especially in these wet conditions.
Traction control? I'm sure it's doing something but in these wet conditions around the 'ring it would let you spin up the tyres in most gears if you were viscous enough with the throttle. Weird thing was no intervention (that I could notice) from the TC, just some spin before the diff locked up away it went-no torque steer at all.
This was a total first for me in a front wheel drive car, it just did not wander at all. Come out of a corner, stamp on the throttle, feel one wheel then the other spin up before a fraction later the diff locks and it furiously pulls you out and rockets you up the road. This was of course, when driving like a hooligan and you could easily make the car more precise and clinical but it seemed to bode well that even my clumsy attempts to tie the chassis in knots didn't seem to do much.
Once actually at the 'ring and with bags dumped at the guesthouse we went for a mooch about. If you've ever been to the track in winter you'll know that there's next to bugger all to do when the weather is bad and we were sat in sleet and rain. We signed on for the following days DN trackway, hit the Blau Ecke for a mega burger and waited it out
On our way down to Adenauer we spied the new Focus RS and Mustang V8 being photo'd for a video or magazine spread and they had stopped at Pinochios in town so we stopped and had a good nosey. There was never a decision for me of the RS v's the Type-R as if I'm honest the Focus just does nothing for me, no matter how much quicker it will be than the Civic but seeing it in the metal just confirmed my thoughts. We did have a brief chat with one of the journalists however and he was mega impressed with it-said it was absolutely fantastic around the 'ring-especially in these winter conditions.
The Mustang? I think his words were "a piece of s
t, the most dangerous car I've ever driven here". Still, it made a lovely noise....After meeting up with the rest of our group as soon as they rolled into town we headed up to the 'ring car park to purchase some laps. The weather was thankfully blowing itself dry although the snow must have put most people off as the place was pretty empty. Barriers up at 5pm and the first of my 2016 laps in our cars for the trip;
FrankieV12VSBee said:
Great write up and loving that rear wing. Great colour and I'm sure it went well round the ring last week.
Why aren't you driving it down to the Monaco GP again? We have a spare room in the villa...can you get a pass? lol
Who needs a pass when I can fit the boss and the baby seat in this one?! In all honesty mate, I feel my screaming baby may cramp your style on the riviera this year-next year however.....Why aren't you driving it down to the Monaco GP again? We have a spare room in the villa...can you get a pass? lol
FrankieV12VSBee said:
LaurasOtherHalf said:
FrankieV12VSBee said:
Great write up and loving that rear wing. Great colour and I'm sure it went well round the ring last week.
Why aren't you driving it down to the Monaco GP again? We have a spare room in the villa...can you get a pass? lol
Who needs a pass when I can fit the boss and the baby seat in this one?! In all honesty mate, I feel my screaming baby may cramp your style on the riviera this year-next year however.....Why aren't you driving it down to the Monaco GP again? We have a spare room in the villa...can you get a pass? lol
Little chance of an update so the story continues......
As mentioned in the previous post the weather was pretty shocking (it's the 'ring in April, it happens) but the locals were thinking the weather was going to clear up and the weather apps suggested the same-I know the eiffel weather as well as everybody else but with sleet and rain at 4pm still I didn't hold out much hope.
We purchased a 4 lap pass to add to our lap left over from last year (they last 2 years now) which we figured would be enough with the track being open form 5:30pm until 7:30pm and dodgy conditions but as we hung around the (almost empty) car park it really started to dry out as the wind swept in. With most people doing the signing on for DN14 we figured even if the track was damp/wet it was so quiet it was silly not to do some quick laps.
We ventured out and although the asphalt was damp in places I'd say at least 3/4 of it was pretty much dry, or dry enough to go for it
400 or so miles on the clock, +R mode selected and away we went. What can I say? the car was utterly epic on the track. The power is incredibly surprising even after driving on the road, when then car can seem a little "laggy" on track and working things completely through the rev range it all pulls together.
The steering weighs up beautifully and even in spite of the cars electrically assisted rack there is so much info coming through to your palms and finger tips on what those tacky sport contact 6's are doing. In +R mode the steering assistance simply lessens, it doesn't change anything else so although you have to put in considerably more effort it doesn't feel like you're steering a different car (as the MINI GP did for instance).
The dampers also considerably stiffen up, and when i say stiff I mean stiff! The engineers have set +R mode up for the ring specifically but on first acquaintance I honestly thought it was too stiff. The car corners flat-proper, proper flat! But over the ring's lumps and bumps would it be too much? At first it felt it might as it's the hardest car I've driven around here, certainly as far as I can remember.
We used up our laps mainly to get our eye back n for the morning but as 7pm approached the rain swept back in, not enough to cause a wash out but enough to cause a shaky moment when attempting the sweeping left hander on the way out of Bergwerk up the Kesse lchen. Always a favourite of mine you exit Bergwerk and work your way up the gears until you're flat out and into fifth. In the new car I was easing off the gas at this point (it's normally taken flat out) but held the throttle steady so as not to unsettle the rear.
Approaching the hill the track did look a little moist but not enough to worry about, right up until I felt the car start to drift at around 130mph
We finished the lap and back in the car park my passenger (first laps out there in a car) burst into nervous laughter and explained he thought we were a gonna! I advised that perhaps wasn't the ideal way to tackle the corner in the wet To be honest, then car felt controllable even when adhesion had been breached but perhaps I was pushing a little too hard for my first 5 laps since last summer. Still, there's no point gong there to fanny about I say.....
First Impressions? fk me it's quick. Proper car quick and the seats are just perfect for track. For the first time in a road car I was happy with seats that were't full buckets.
We went for an evening meal with the rest of the gang and headed to bed early. We suspected it would be cold in the morning with the sleet coming back for the night and more than likely the track wouldn't open on time but should it do so we didn't want to be late.
I'm not much of a one for sleeping but the 'ring exasperates this somewhat! 6am and i'm usually awake, I could see light shining through the shutters but as I had my mate rooming with me I resisted up until half six before excitement got the better of me. Curtin drawn and shutters opened revealed this;
Get the three S's out the way and get down to the Guesthouse for some breakfast. Cold admittedly but the weather looked promising for the morning at least of open pit lane action
As mentioned in the previous post the weather was pretty shocking (it's the 'ring in April, it happens) but the locals were thinking the weather was going to clear up and the weather apps suggested the same-I know the eiffel weather as well as everybody else but with sleet and rain at 4pm still I didn't hold out much hope.
We purchased a 4 lap pass to add to our lap left over from last year (they last 2 years now) which we figured would be enough with the track being open form 5:30pm until 7:30pm and dodgy conditions but as we hung around the (almost empty) car park it really started to dry out as the wind swept in. With most people doing the signing on for DN14 we figured even if the track was damp/wet it was so quiet it was silly not to do some quick laps.
We ventured out and although the asphalt was damp in places I'd say at least 3/4 of it was pretty much dry, or dry enough to go for it
400 or so miles on the clock, +R mode selected and away we went. What can I say? the car was utterly epic on the track. The power is incredibly surprising even after driving on the road, when then car can seem a little "laggy" on track and working things completely through the rev range it all pulls together.
The steering weighs up beautifully and even in spite of the cars electrically assisted rack there is so much info coming through to your palms and finger tips on what those tacky sport contact 6's are doing. In +R mode the steering assistance simply lessens, it doesn't change anything else so although you have to put in considerably more effort it doesn't feel like you're steering a different car (as the MINI GP did for instance).
The dampers also considerably stiffen up, and when i say stiff I mean stiff! The engineers have set +R mode up for the ring specifically but on first acquaintance I honestly thought it was too stiff. The car corners flat-proper, proper flat! But over the ring's lumps and bumps would it be too much? At first it felt it might as it's the hardest car I've driven around here, certainly as far as I can remember.
We used up our laps mainly to get our eye back n for the morning but as 7pm approached the rain swept back in, not enough to cause a wash out but enough to cause a shaky moment when attempting the sweeping left hander on the way out of Bergwerk up the Kesse lchen. Always a favourite of mine you exit Bergwerk and work your way up the gears until you're flat out and into fifth. In the new car I was easing off the gas at this point (it's normally taken flat out) but held the throttle steady so as not to unsettle the rear.
Approaching the hill the track did look a little moist but not enough to worry about, right up until I felt the car start to drift at around 130mph
We finished the lap and back in the car park my passenger (first laps out there in a car) burst into nervous laughter and explained he thought we were a gonna! I advised that perhaps wasn't the ideal way to tackle the corner in the wet
To be honest, then car felt controllable even when adhesion had been breached but perhaps I was pushing a little too hard for my first 5 laps since last summer. Still, there's no point gong there to fanny about I say.....First Impressions? f
k me it's quick. Proper car quick and the seats are just perfect for track. For the first time in a road car I was happy with seats that were't full buckets.We went for an evening meal with the rest of the gang and headed to bed early. We suspected it would be cold in the morning with the sleet coming back for the night and more than likely the track wouldn't open on time but should it do so we didn't want to be late.
I'm not much of a one for sleeping but the 'ring exasperates this somewhat! 6am and i'm usually awake, I could see light shining through the shutters but as I had my mate rooming with me I resisted up until half six before excitement got the better of me. Curtin drawn and shutters opened revealed this;
Get the three S's out the way and get down to the Guesthouse for some breakfast. Cold admittedly but the weather looked promising for the morning at least of open pit lane action
melvster said:
The more I read, the more I want. Blagged a brochure from the local dealer today, just need to get saving now for the deposit. They had a championship white example basking in the showroom and it looked bloody epic, their demo car outside is Polished metal. Evil looking thing.
I know you've taken an interest in quite a few of the cars I've owned melvster, but believe me when I say this one is up there with the best of them. From the cars I've had that have piqued your interest I'd say the Type-R is bonafide special in a way that very few cars ever are. If you have the means, I'd highly recommend getting in to one.Finance wise, I'd be looking at a nearly new car at £5k under list, they will still give you the headline 5% on a pcp at the moment i think.
I don't own a crystal ball, but I think they will become sought after at 2 years old and be retailing at low £20k's at 3 years. If you buy in now at £27-28k that's 3 years cheap motoring for the performance in my opinion.
With the tech and performance on the car, I'd want a manufacturers warranty for as long as I could get so buying new worked for me, plus they gave daft money on my part ex. Realistically, I reckon I paid about a grand more to buy new than second hand which pushed me away from the sub-1 year old nearly new examples. Plus I'm happy to admit I like being the first owner
I don't own a crystal ball, but I think they will become sought after at 2 years old and be retailing at low £20k's at 3 years. If you buy in now at £27-28k that's 3 years cheap motoring for the performance in my opinion.
With the tech and performance on the car, I'd want a manufacturers warranty for as long as I could get so buying new worked for me, plus they gave daft money on my part ex. Realistically, I reckon I paid about a grand more to buy new than second hand which pushed me away from the sub-1 year old nearly new examples. Plus I'm happy to admit I like being the first owner
Busy at work so apologies for the tardy continuation of the thread, where were we again? Ah yes, a frosty April morning in Germany......
So as you may imagine, the track wasn't open first thing but it didn't take too long to get going. The first 3 laps were sighting laps, no overtaking but a decent speed in which to learn the track. Co-driver had driven the 'ring before (actually in my MX5 which I detailed in my previous thread) but we're only talking a handful of laps. To make matters worse he isn't always the best passenger and has to concentrate hard on not seeing his breakfast again so he did the first laps in the car. He did all three sighting laps and it was a really nice way to teach him some lines, if you've ever been before you'll know how tough it is to learn when you're constantly worried about cars thundering up behind.
Once sighting laps were done we swapped over and I got to take the car out to see what it could really do
With +R mode switched on again the car is absolutely planted, no roll through the corners whatsoever;
I know these manufacturers always go on about downforce and I (like most petrolheads) take it all with a pinch of salt. Can it really give you proper downforce? maybe negative lift but hand on heart it feels like it's being sucked down into the track. Theres a bumpy section near the start of the track just before hatzenbach where we were actually jumping out our seats a little, all through this the car just sat flat on the track. Four point harnesses are definitely on the shopping list....
+R also gives the steering quite a nice bit of weight, you rally feel like you're working for it, The Continental Sport Contact 6' that the car comes on aren't specifically track tyres but they do give a nice balance between grip and feel and are softer than regular road tyres. Dale from Bridge To Gantry remarked he thought it would be better on 18' wheels like his Seat and i reckon he'd be right. The tyres do a great job, especially at the 'ring where the tarmac is quite nice and smooth for a racetrack but if they were 18' you could get a little more sidewall on them which would really give you something to lean on. It didn't piss me off on the day, but thinking back I reckon it would be better.
My best mate Steve who was out in his gorgeous 911 GTS went out for a lap with us and Ross my co-driver for the day hooked up his GoPro to record;
https://youtu.be/DHkA_SNFOHA
As you can see we got a little traffic and seeing as it was only 2 days old I was a probably a bit more polite than I normally would be! Steve is a fantastic driver however and I was pleased we could keep up in the family bus We'v been doing these 'ring trips together for years now and I think we're pretty well matched though he definitely drives his cars harder than I do mine! He's not afraid in giving the car some stick, I'm all to aware I need the car to drive to work on Monday after the fun is over. Cracking bit of kit the 911GTs is however and feels like it could some up the abuse all day. Surprisingly tough to drive as well, I know people go on about how the 991 went all soft but I think that's all cobblers, it's a very physical car to drive and I really enjoyed the laps I drove in it.
Speaking of Porsches, this little video is quite good fun, the family bus in with a gaggle of 911 GT3s and GT2s;
https://youtu.be/CO2rtz2Qu_k
As you can see, much fun was being had and I must say I take my hat off to Destination Nurburg for their exemplary running of the day. We only had one closure all day when a fellow PH'r (I think) put his gorgeous red GT3 into the barrier at Tiergarten, but from what I heard there were no injuries apart from to the car
The car was doing quite well on fuel as well which surprised me a lot, I presumed it would be thirstier
Early afternoon however we were starting to put some really good sub 8:30 laps together when coming around the last looooooonnnngg right hander at Döttinger Höhethe car spluttered, the engine warning light came home and the car went into limp home mode
Back in the car park we took a look over it. Now our first thought was fuelling, the car was getting empty (though the warning light wasn't on) and the corner is a really long one, could the pump have momentarily run dry throwing up a fault code? Strangely the oil temperature gauge wasn't reading either but the oil level was fine. I rang Honda but understandably they didn't ant to try and diagnose over the phone with no way to do a reset. Their advice was to simply fill it up and see what happened and if it didn't solve things to ring up Honda European Breakdown which I thought was all fair enough.
The car did seem to go back to normal as soon as we started it again although the warning light did stay on, we put it down to the low fuel and a bit of surge and it didn't happen again. I guess they weren't running on fumes to get that 7:50 ring lap tim eh?!
We even got to spend some track time with some PH'r and his old golf
Apparently some journalists were most surprised by the speed of the little green beastie!
So much fun was had by all 
The family bus was given it's badge of honour and had performed amazingly well, little hiccup not withstanding. I have since had the car booked in with Honda just to check for fault codes but as it wasn't the right type apparently the car erased it (or the wrong the I guess). Honda presumed it was fuel surge as well so I'm just going to run it until quarter full on track now and see if it ever happens again.
This isn't the end of the trip however, after picking up our bags from the guesthouse we were on our way to Belgium and Spa Francorchamps.......
TBC
So as you may imagine, the track wasn't open first thing but it didn't take too long to get going. The first 3 laps were sighting laps, no overtaking but a decent speed in which to learn the track. Co-driver had driven the 'ring before (actually in my MX5 which I detailed in my previous thread) but we're only talking a handful of laps. To make matters worse he isn't always the best passenger and has to concentrate hard on not seeing his breakfast again so he did the first laps in the car. He did all three sighting laps and it was a really nice way to teach him some lines, if you've ever been before you'll know how tough it is to learn when you're constantly worried about cars thundering up behind.
Once sighting laps were done we swapped over and I got to take the car out to see what it could really do
With +R mode switched on again the car is absolutely planted, no roll through the corners whatsoever;
I know these manufacturers always go on about downforce and I (like most petrolheads) take it all with a pinch of salt. Can it really give you proper downforce? maybe negative lift but hand on heart it feels like it's being sucked down into the track. Theres a bumpy section near the start of the track just before hatzenbach where we were actually jumping out our seats a little, all through this the car just sat flat on the track. Four point harnesses are definitely on the shopping list....
+R also gives the steering quite a nice bit of weight, you rally feel like you're working for it, The Continental Sport Contact 6' that the car comes on aren't specifically track tyres but they do give a nice balance between grip and feel and are softer than regular road tyres. Dale from Bridge To Gantry remarked he thought it would be better on 18' wheels like his Seat and i reckon he'd be right. The tyres do a great job, especially at the 'ring where the tarmac is quite nice and smooth for a racetrack but if they were 18' you could get a little more sidewall on them which would really give you something to lean on. It didn't piss me off on the day, but thinking back I reckon it would be better.
My best mate Steve who was out in his gorgeous 911 GTS went out for a lap with us and Ross my co-driver for the day hooked up his GoPro to record;
https://youtu.be/DHkA_SNFOHA
As you can see we got a little traffic and seeing as it was only 2 days old I was a probably a bit more polite than I normally would be! Steve is a fantastic driver however and I was pleased we could keep up in the family bus
We'v been doing these 'ring trips together for years now and I think we're pretty well matched though he definitely drives his cars harder than I do mine! He's not afraid in giving the car some stick, I'm all to aware I need the car to drive to work on Monday after the fun is over. Cracking bit of kit the 911GTs is however and feels like it could some up the abuse all day. Surprisingly tough to drive as well, I know people go on about how the 991 went all soft but I think that's all cobblers, it's a very physical car to drive and I really enjoyed the laps I drove in it.Speaking of Porsches, this little video is quite good fun, the family bus in with a gaggle of 911 GT3s and GT2s;
https://youtu.be/CO2rtz2Qu_k
As you can see, much fun was being had and I must say I take my hat off to Destination Nurburg for their exemplary running of the day. We only had one closure all day when a fellow PH'r (I think) put his gorgeous red GT3 into the barrier at Tiergarten, but from what I heard there were no injuries apart from to the car
The car was doing quite well on fuel as well which surprised me a lot, I presumed it would be thirstier
Early afternoon however we were starting to put some really good sub 8:30 laps together when coming around the last looooooonnnngg right hander at Döttinger Höhethe car spluttered, the engine warning light came home and the car went into limp home mode
Back in the car park we took a look over it. Now our first thought was fuelling, the car was getting empty (though the warning light wasn't on) and the corner is a really long one, could the pump have momentarily run dry throwing up a fault code? Strangely the oil temperature gauge wasn't reading either but the oil level was fine. I rang Honda but understandably they didn't ant to try and diagnose over the phone with no way to do a reset. Their advice was to simply fill it up and see what happened and if it didn't solve things to ring up Honda European Breakdown which I thought was all fair enough.
The car did seem to go back to normal as soon as we started it again although the warning light did stay on, we put it down to the low fuel and a bit of surge and it didn't happen again. I guess they weren't running on fumes to get that 7:50 ring lap tim eh?!
We even got to spend some track time with some PH'r and his old golf
Apparently some journalists were most surprised by the speed of the little green beastie!
So much fun was had by all The family bus was given it's badge of honour and had performed amazingly well, little hiccup not withstanding. I have since had the car booked in with Honda just to check for fault codes but as it wasn't the right type apparently the car erased it (or the wrong the I guess). Honda presumed it was fuel surge as well so I'm just going to run it until quarter full on track now and see if it ever happens again.This isn't the end of the trip however, after picking up our bags from the guesthouse we were on our way to Belgium and Spa Francorchamps.......
TBC
I'm terribly bad at updating these threads so apologies for the delay. But we continue to Spa......
What do I ay about Spa? The plaudits gush forth when speaking to most track-day'rs, epic scenery, epic track etc etc. I love the place and have some very fond memories of the trips we've enjoyed around here but on track? Drumroll please.....
I don't actually enjoy it.
It's without doubt one of my favourite motorsport venues, and i do love to watch the F1 boys around there and there's nothing like driving the same hallowed tarmac as your hero's but as a track day for me personally, I just never enjoy it as much as I probably should. Strange.
Now before everyone says I'm mental (they may have a point) I've actually done some thinking as to why this is for none other than the purposes of this thread and I think I know why it doesn't quite appeal to me as much as it should, there are a couple of reasons for it..
1 It always seems to fall after a 'ring trip and the 'ring is so challenging, so exciting etc that unfortunately for me the grand old place that is Spa just feels a bit mickey after the 'ring.
2 it's fking hard on your car. My first ever trackway was at Spa believe it or not and I still recall setting the brakes on my 350Z on fire (amongst other misdemeanours!)
3 the best corners are fast and ballsy. eau rouge, blanchemont, pouhon etc yes they're a massive challenge and I totally get that, but with corners this fast you have to be going at epic speeds to make them come alive and I personally know 3 people who have written off their cars there. The excitement outweighs the risk.
4 the big one. You know what makes Spa really fun? Having a fking really fast car. GTR, GT2, GT3, this is fun at Spa. My modified shopping cars? not so much as it happens. Some folk might think this is sad but in all honesty I revel in the fact that I can outpace some serious machinery at the 'ring with my vastly inferior cars through driver skill. I'm not by any stretch of the imagination the quickest, but I can hold my own and there's a thrill in that. At Spa, without some serious hardware you are simply going to get passed. A lot. My best ever time there was years ago in the R26.R when it rained biblically and we stayed out lapping and passing for fun. Every other time, well I guess I'm just a bit slow.
So there you go, I've kind of decided I won't bother much with Spa any more. I'll probably still do it in the 911 with Steve should the opportunity arise again but in my own car, until I get back into the "Supercar" realms again I don't think so.
Here's some footage;
https://youtu.be/ez_TZp4btQI
We took quite a lot more, but looking back on it I don't think it makes for really that exciting viewing. We did have a couple of laps racing with a stripped out e36 M3 race car from holland but didn't manage to film it, the most fun I had was in the 911GTS unsurprisingly.
So not to finish on a downer, it's just some reflections after a few weeks of getting back home after the trip. The car was great on track and it was a total buzz with the attention it got. We were yet again running late for the ferry and even though we were the last ones on we couldn't get to our cabin as we had to show the dockers around the car;
They loved it unsurprisingly as one actually had an EP3 Type-R and was waxing lyrical about how much he wanted one of these new ones.
What do I ay about Spa? The plaudits gush forth when speaking to most track-day'rs, epic scenery, epic track etc etc. I love the place and have some very fond memories of the trips we've enjoyed around here but on track? Drumroll please.....
I don't actually enjoy it.
It's without doubt one of my favourite motorsport venues, and i do love to watch the F1 boys around there and there's nothing like driving the same hallowed tarmac as your hero's but as a track day for me personally, I just never enjoy it as much as I probably should. Strange.
Now before everyone says I'm mental (they may have a point) I've actually done some thinking as to why this is for none other than the purposes of this thread and I think I know why it doesn't quite appeal to me as much as it should, there are a couple of reasons for it..
1 It always seems to fall after a 'ring trip and the 'ring is so challenging, so exciting etc that unfortunately for me the grand old place that is Spa just feels a bit mickey after the 'ring.
2 it's f
king hard on your car. My first ever trackway was at Spa believe it or not and I still recall setting the brakes on my 350Z on fire (amongst other misdemeanours!)3 the best corners are fast and ballsy. eau rouge, blanchemont, pouhon etc yes they're a massive challenge and I totally get that, but with corners this fast you have to be going at epic speeds to make them come alive and I personally know 3 people who have written off their cars there. The excitement outweighs the risk.
4 the big one. You know what makes Spa really fun? Having a f
king really fast car. GTR, GT2, GT3, this is fun at Spa. My modified shopping cars? not so much as it happens. Some folk might think this is sad but in all honesty I revel in the fact that I can outpace some serious machinery at the 'ring with my vastly inferior cars through driver skill. I'm not by any stretch of the imagination the quickest, but I can hold my own and there's a thrill in that. At Spa, without some serious hardware you are simply going to get passed. A lot. My best ever time there was years ago in the R26.R when it rained biblically and we stayed out lapping and passing for fun. Every other time, well I guess I'm just a bit slow.
So there you go, I've kind of decided I won't bother much with Spa any more. I'll probably still do it in the 911 with Steve should the opportunity arise again but in my own car, until I get back into the "Supercar" realms again I don't think so.
Here's some footage;
https://youtu.be/ez_TZp4btQI
We took quite a lot more, but looking back on it I don't think it makes for really that exciting viewing. We did have a couple of laps racing with a stripped out e36 M3 race car from holland but didn't manage to film it, the most fun I had was in the 911GTS unsurprisingly.
So not to finish on a downer, it's just some reflections after a few weeks of getting back home after the trip. The car was great on track and it was a total buzz with the attention it got. We were yet again running late for the ferry and even though we were the last ones on we couldn't get to our cabin as we had to show the dockers around the car;
They loved it unsurprisingly as one actually had an EP3 Type-R and was waxing lyrical about how much he wanted one of these new ones.
Edited by LaurasOtherHalf on Sunday 10th November 21:12
jmate said:
Just wanted to day what a excellent write-up. You should sell these for Honda because I think you've captured more then what they have for the nature of this car.
Makes me want one !
Thanks very much Makes me want one !
Funnily enough someone said the same in my old MINI GP threadThunder18 said:
Do you know if anyone put 18's on theirs as yet, or even as the vs RS thread may have suggested, putting Michelins on to see how it fares out??
I'm not on any Honda specific forums but when I've been doing a little googling I have found one where people mention the Honda winter tyres that are 18' but apparently the stock sizes are a really cooky offset so finding some 18s to throw on is a little difficult.....Standard wheel spec;
Size - 19"
PCD - 5 x 120
Width - 8.5
Offset - ET60
Centre Bore - 64.1mm
Weight - 11kg
Part Number - 42700-TV8-E93
FK2 Type-R on OZ 18s;
Demanvilles said:
Have you considered spacers on the rear wheels?
Great machine! I've just noticed the rear wheels look a little lost on this particular model.
Good luck with it! Looks brilliant fun!
Cheers Great machine! I've just noticed the rear wheels look a little lost on this particular model.
Good luck with it! Looks brilliant fun!
The rear wheels do look daft I know and I have looked at spacers BUT, my issue is how will they effect the handling? The problem is, the damn car just drives so bloomin' well I really want to upset all that just for aesthetics? I think what might be more effective is to go down the 18' route as Thunder18 says but using a wheel with a different offset to increase the track that way. It all sounds a little bit too much suck it an see to me and I'd be a fool to spend a couple of grand on wheels and tyres to end up with a car that handled worse but looked better.
I have spoken to TDi North briefly about it and probably need to investigate further as they're working on FK2Type-R mods now. My enquiry was along the lines of increasing the camber as well as the offset to get a better set up but I think it's still a work in progress for them. I'll keep weighing up the options I guess...
Anyways, as mentioned we had a night out with the car last night. Readers of my previous threads will know I used to have a couple of 911s so I did used to pop along to the local Porsche Club nights, not my usual scene but they are run by a mate and they are pretty welcoming to all makes of car. Another mate who lives up the road from us suddenly arrived in a lovely V8 Vantage on Saturday (after trading his equally mint DB7 Vantage in for it) and as we were looking for an excuse to take the cars out we decided to go to this months meet.
The weather has been perfect up here in the north for the last few weeks so I even managed to get the car washed and waxed and looking it's best
There's something about HD Wax that I like, probably that it makes the car easier to clean as I'm lazy
I love the look when it's all applied but get that sinking feeling at the thought of buffing it all off again! Would one of those machine polishers make it easier?
I really need to move those gas bottles too when I get a spare couple of hours
Regardless, last night.....
Everyone met at ours for the trip over towards the lake district for the meet, as the Aston was new and the weather was beautiful I wanted to passenger in that so Ross (who came to the 'ring with me last month) drove the Type-R with one of his mates in the passenger seat. Plus as I wasn't driving I could have a pint
Isn't it nice seeing your car on the road?
We drove down in convoy and got to the hotel where the meet was happening, not a huge affair but some nice cars all the same
As I said, a very different crowd to what I'm used to, The Porsche lot are more into their polishing and talking where I'd normally be into the driving side of things but each to their own. Did the Type-R get much of a reaction? Not much at all I'm afraid
but I guess this reflects on the different people that go to say these events and trackways for instance and I don't mind having a look over other peoples nice cars. Where it may be different though is at the 'ring for instance, if someone is taking a look over my car I'll open it up, let them have a seat in it and start the engine and rev it, maybe even offer them a passenger lap or something. At these events it's all a little more reserved shall we say, there aint much interaction between owners and any new arrivals (I had't been to this meet for a couple of years and two of our party had never been at all), maybe the oiks in the souped up shopping trolley weren't to be fraternised with! It's maybe a generational thing.
One thing I will say however is they keep their cars bloody shiny! Mike, the lad who organises these things has the mintest porsche I've ever seen, you look through the wheels and even the ball joints are pristine. How he can be bothered I'll never know but it's nice to see, if not what I'm in to!
After a couple of pints we headed home in the Aston, god I love these V8 Vantages. I've looked at a few over the years but never gotten one bought, maybe one day.... I know people slate them for being a bit heavy and underpowered but I don't see it myself, plenty fast enough for me and I think with a few subtle mods it would make a great euro-tourer and 'ring car.
Ross followed us in the Type-R most of the way but decided to overtake for the final stretch and it was lovely to see the car on the road in front of us, something you never usually get to see I guess. It really does look mean! Very, very aggressively styled obviously but it seems to look even more so when in motion, the colour brings it all together too. I know the wheels look a little lost when static but when it's on the road in front of you the wide arch look all comes together, it really looks like it has just driven off a rally stage or touring car race.
I think I've made the right choice in car
Edited by LaurasOtherHalf on Wednesday 8th June 09:50
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