Angel v Devil

[Josh147]

Is it silly to be thinking about getting a Focus RS Mk2 if/when I decide to replace my Alfa...? http://rides.webshots.com/album/576305277osvHbJ

After driving a diesel, I love the amount of torque it has but hate the fact it sounds like a tractor. I also like how the car looks and handles. plus the added bonus that it's a pretty rare model. However, I think a Focus RS would be a pretty good upgrade. I wouldn't be changing my car for at least another year though - just thoughts at the moment.

Part of me says keep the Alfa but part of me says get an RS or something similar - Audi S3, Golf R, RenaultSport Megane 250.

[pilchardthecat]

RenaultSport Megane 250 out of that lot.

Or something that's not wrong wheel drive?

[Josh147]

Well the S3 and Golf R are both 4wd and despite Clarkson's views, the Focus has had good reviews on it's handling despite the amount of power going through the front wheels... I know the guys who took out the Meganes for a PH review really liked them and other reviews seem to be good as well.

What other car(s), in that price range, would you consider?

[pilchardthecat]

Josh147 said:

Well the S3 and Golf R are both 4wd

Crappy haldex systems with heavy FWD understeery bias. Still wrong wheel drive. The Renault is the best steer of them

Are you buying new? what's the budget?

[Papa Hotel]

If it was my money it would be the Focus or Megane. Probably the Focus and keep it forever until they've all been crashed and sell it for a shedload of big notes.

[Josh147]

Well I wouldn't be buying for at least another year, so probably second hand. I guess my budget would be something around £18k-£23k...

[Josh147]

Papa Hotel said:

If it was my money it would be the Focus or Megane. Probably the Focus and keep it forever until they've all been crashed and sell it for a shedload of big notes.

It's the sound, look and surprising handling characteristics of the Focus that grab my attention.

[pilchardthecat]

Josh147 said:

Well I wouldn't be buying for at least another year, so probably second hand. I guess my budget would be something around £18k-£23k...

You can get a proper car for that money. Do you need the rear seats....?

[Josh147]

pilchardthecat said:

Josh147 said:

Well I wouldn't be buying for at least another year, so probably second hand. I guess my budget would be something around £18k-£23k...

You can get a proper car for that money. Do you need the rear seats....?

Yep; I'm a sessional/gigging drummer so I'd like a practical fast car that I can have a some fun in when I'm not lugging equipment around.