Nippy, Pointable, feels quicker than it is

[deanobeano]

So here's my 'What next car?' dilemma.

I have been driving green for the last few years (current car Vauxhall Ampera). I have enjoyed the low running costs and perhaps more so the 'uniqueness' factor associated with it.

But I'm getting the itch to change.

I am looking for a replacement that feels responsive, perhaps lightweight. It needs to be nippy but not necessarily fast (there are few occasions when outright performance can be used here in England I feel).

2 seats (or more) would be fine. Myself and Mrs B usually do at least one Euro trip per year, so a little practicality (boot space for example) would be good. It was on our last road trip that I finally realised that my car needed to weigh about 500kg lighter to be more fun on the twistys.

I am now semi retired, so not much slog to work requirement but approx. 10k miles PA

Budget, ideally up to 30K but could do more if needed. New or used.

I reach 50 next year, so nothing too council please.

Cars I have considered:

GT86
Mk IV MX5
1 series 135 or 140
Alfa Giulietta. 1.7 Veloce or QV

And a few more that stray from my criteria but still considered:

Z4M roadster - pricy now but rare and still looks beautiful
Evora
BMW I8 - double my ideal price range, but I am comfortable with the technology. However, perhaps a tad 'showy'
Alfa 4C - I really love this car, however I am struggling to make it viable, ref luggage space.

Anything else - please?

[CrouchingWayne]

I guess it depends if you want newer (GT86, MX5) or older (Z4M) - I'd maybe decide that first. Your budget is healthy and should get you something great. I rate convertibles for driving/speed sensation.

My first thought was a 997.2 C2S which can be had for £25-30k I think so pretty much on budget. Might not feel faster than it is. 981 Boxster adds roof down so might improve speed sensation.

You mention Z4MR - I have one of these and I really like it, although I'd been after one for ages so was never not going to like it! Even buying the best around would leave loads of change (could get a nice one for £15k or under)

If you can stretch, an AMV8 is tantalising at £35k. Evora as well - but no convertible. I assume an Elise would be a stretch too far.

Edited by CrouchingWayne on Saturday 19th November 10:00

[ZX10R NIN]

Give the Evora a try they're an underrated car.

http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2016...

Lexus RC-F yes it has big bhp but it's a nice car

http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2016...

Or the more sensible RC300 Hybrid

http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2016...

[deanobeano]

Thanks for the feedback.

The Evora looks nice - the colour combination suits it well.

Lexus coupe - too slow methinks and if the hybrid system is the same as the CT and Prius (owned both) then the CVT like gearbox would put me off still further.

Ref Porsche, I've always been tempted by a Cayman or Boxster.

[ZX10R NIN]

I'd still look at the Evora but some VAG stuff worth a look

TT RS+

http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2016...

Cayman R

http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2016...

981 Cayman S

http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2016...

[anonymous-user]

Just a few ideas.

Some are above budget but not stupidy.

Again luggage could be an issue

BMW M2 but would need to spend more than the desired £30k

BMW 1M same as above

http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2016...

Porsche 996 Carrera 4S 4WD Manual

http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2016...

Audi R8 4.2 Manual again more than desired amount

http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2016...

Ford Mustang GT 5.0 Ltr

http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2016...

Jaguar XK XKR-S

http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2016...

Renault Clio V6 phase 2 Might be a bit council estate for you but they get a lot of attention

http://www.pistonheads.com/classifieds/used-cars/r...

Lancia Delta Integrale EVO 2

http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2016...

TVR Cerbera Coupe Manual Speed Six 4.0 2dr

http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2016...

TVR T350 3.6 2dr

http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2016...

Edited by anonymous-user on Sunday 20th November 18:37

Edited by anonymous-user on Sunday 20th November 18:39

[deanobeano]

Some nice choices there Jim -thanks for the input.

I had thought of a 1M. I remember when, nearly new, they were dipping towards high 20's and I was tempted then. I had a E46 CSL at the time which sort of ruled the 1M out.

But now, no such restrictions.

[anonymous-user]

deanobeano said:

Some nice choices there Jim -thanks for the input.

I had thought of a 1M. I remember when, nearly new, they were dipping towards high 20's and I was tempted then. I had a E46 CSL at the time which sort of ruled the 1M out.

But now, no such restrictions.

The E46 CSL must have been a hard one to let go.

The 1M will just continue to increase in value. Already looking at cars for sale there are big differences in price.

I would imagine the M2 will be the same but not as limited as the 1M.

Please let us know what you finally chose.