What fun car for a road trip across Europe?

[fasimew]

I'm looking at travelling across Europe by car. Will probably be gone for a few months, either this year or next. One big sightseeing trip. I imagine there will be a visit to a race track in each country - would be rude not to.

I'm having trouble trying to decide on a car that's good for cruising as well as spirited driving. I'm doing it on my own, so I don't want an old car that's going to give me hassle. Budgetwise, let's try to keep it below £100k (that's not a target!).

Key criteria:
- Cruise control
- Comfortable for long stints
- Capable on track
- Has enough luggage space for 2 people
- Less than 10 years old
- Petrol

The immediate candidate the springs to mind is some sort of Porsche. An Alfa 4c could also go on the list. Perhaps a Jag F Type?
Throw me some ideas!

[fasimew]

Great suggestions. Would a convertible be a wise choice for this type of trip? I've never had one, but it sounds like the perfect reason to get one.

[fasimew]

740EVTORQUES said:

Having just done it in a 997, I’d bet any of my faster cars would actually be less fun.

This is my thinking. There's no point in having too much power. You can't wring it out in the same way. I think something NA would be best.

[fasimew]

I concur. When the opening post mentions Porsche, 4c and F type, my first thought would be 'sports car'. What goes through your mind to suggest a 5 series or a stty little clio? That's a rhetorical question.

[fasimew]

EBRANDON1 said:

I completely get what you're saying in that a 4C perhaps feels a bit more special and sporty, fair enough, BUT I think its harsh saying an M5 Comp is an awful suggestion when it kind of beats the 4C on every aspect of your criteria
- faster on road and track
- more practical/ more luggage
- more comfortable
- more reliable

I should just not bother replying, but I'll indulge you on this occasion:

- it's still a boat of a 4 door and near 2 tonnes. No thanks.
- it's not about speed or lap times, only enjoyment.
- there's only 1 person - me.
- it's about average in terms of reliability.

Please no more barge or econobox suggestions. NA sports cars only.

[fasimew]

bennno said:

NA wasn’t mentioned initially and the majority of F Type, 911, alpine, amg gt etc will all be forced induction.

Genuinely the best road trip car I think I’ve used was the f type, or a Mustang gt 5.0 - devours continental roads and a proper hooligan on top (just needs the Ford option springs and a rough exhaust).

No it initially wasn't. But it is now. I think anything forced induction would be overpowered, or a tiny 4 pot. I don't fancy a 4 pot. So that takes the 4c off the list.

Hmm Mustang.

Would going for a convertible be a decision I'd regret?

[fasimew]

740EVTORQUES said:

I’d still go for the 996/ 997, with a NA flat 6 behind you, even leaving the tolls is fun as you can redline it!

Yes those are high on the list. How would a 718 cayman/boxster compare?

[fasimew]

Sorry I should have been clearer, I was referring to convertibles in general.

[fasimew]

A 718 Spyder does seem to be the top choice (imo). Not too big, relatively light, a good amount of power, looks great, screamer of an engine... Although it is at the top of my budget, which requires some thinking about. What are residuals like?
I also quite like the idea of a 996 or 997 GT3.

I really don't think there's much in the way of direct competition for any of these cars?

Edited by fasimew on Thursday 9th May 02:02