Fun Commuting Car with 4 Seats
Discussion
I've been running a company car for the last few years but now want to get something a bit more interesting.
The 'commute' will be around 12k a year, including visiting clients, so should be able to claim about £5k in fuel, I think, as I'm based from home.
An MX5 would be ideal, but I have been instructed that 4 seats is the minimum requirement, or my children (and dog) would have to walk.
We already have an e61 530i so don't need a family wagon.
So my preferences are: manual, fun to drive (but motorways will still need to be used), 4 seats (the dog can sit on my knee), reasonably economical as I'll be claiming mileage, as reliable as possible, needs to look okay visiting clients and sometimes building sites.
Budget should really be £5k or I'll need to look at finance, but this is doable too.
I'd love a GT86, but I'd also love a 987...
Any suggestions welcomed, I just keep going round the houses at the moment.
The 'commute' will be around 12k a year, including visiting clients, so should be able to claim about £5k in fuel, I think, as I'm based from home.
An MX5 would be ideal, but I have been instructed that 4 seats is the minimum requirement, or my children (and dog) would have to walk.
We already have an e61 530i so don't need a family wagon.
So my preferences are: manual, fun to drive (but motorways will still need to be used), 4 seats (the dog can sit on my knee), reasonably economical as I'll be claiming mileage, as reliable as possible, needs to look okay visiting clients and sometimes building sites.
Budget should really be £5k or I'll need to look at finance, but this is doable too.
I'd love a GT86, but I'd also love a 987...
Any suggestions welcomed, I just keep going round the houses at the moment.
That's exactly my problem, I can't narrow it down.
I go from a GT86 to a 330d to a Cooper S, Clio 200 and more...
It would be good if I could cover the cost of running the car and if possible, paying for it with the money I would get for the mileage. Might be impossible, but I did some man maths on the GT86 and came up with this:
£5k for fuel costs (10k @ 45ppm, 2k @ 25ppm)
GT86 fuel cost over 12k is around £1688. With all other costs included a GT86 would cost me around £4063 pa (assuming £9.5k purchase, worth £6k after 3 years, £265 tax pa, £400 insurance, £250 service costs, £300 for repairs). I've never tried to be this organised about a car before, so this may be completely wrong.
edit - I've just realised I used the word 'cost' far too many times.
I go from a GT86 to a 330d to a Cooper S, Clio 200 and more...
It would be good if I could cover the cost of running the car and if possible, paying for it with the money I would get for the mileage. Might be impossible, but I did some man maths on the GT86 and came up with this:
£5k for fuel costs (10k @ 45ppm, 2k @ 25ppm)
GT86 fuel cost over 12k is around £1688. With all other costs included a GT86 would cost me around £4063 pa (assuming £9.5k purchase, worth £6k after 3 years, £265 tax pa, £400 insurance, £250 service costs, £300 for repairs). I've never tried to be this organised about a car before, so this may be completely wrong.
edit - I've just realised I used the word 'cost' far too many times.
Peugeot RCZ 200 GT these are the ones with the Forged bottom ends
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/202...
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/202...
Sport
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201...
208 GTI
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/202...
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/202...
325i SE
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/202...
Focus ST-3 peach of a 5pot along with the ability to soak up the miles.
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/202...
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201...
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/202...
Civic Type R the short gearing can make motorway journeys a grind
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/202...
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/202...
Mugen
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/202...
Type R GT
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/202...
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/202...
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/202...
Sport
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201...
208 GTI
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/202...
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/202...
325i SE
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/202...
Focus ST-3 peach of a 5pot along with the ability to soak up the miles.
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/202...
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201...
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/202...
Civic Type R the short gearing can make motorway journeys a grind
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/202...
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/202...
Mugen
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/202...
Type R GT
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/202...
Great list, thanks.
I like the later Type R, but don't they have some inherent issues? Fuel economy might not be ideal either. Definitely on the list.
The 3 series coupe looks good too.
I had thought about the Pug Gti but really can't bear white cars, I'm not really sure why. Does an RCZ have rear seats? I'm guessing they're tiny, or they would show them in the adverts. Good looking cars though.
I do like the 5 pot ST a lot but the adverts always look a bit shabby, as if they've been part of a drugs bust.
Another leftfield option I saw was a Giulietta Cloverleaf that you linked to on another thread: https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/202...
I like the later Type R, but don't they have some inherent issues? Fuel economy might not be ideal either. Definitely on the list.
The 3 series coupe looks good too.
I had thought about the Pug Gti but really can't bear white cars, I'm not really sure why. Does an RCZ have rear seats? I'm guessing they're tiny, or they would show them in the adverts. Good looking cars though.
I do like the 5 pot ST a lot but the adverts always look a bit shabby, as if they've been part of a drugs bust.
Another leftfield option I saw was a Giulietta Cloverleaf that you linked to on another thread: https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/202...
This one looks good: https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/202...
Just not sure about the 'half swede' seats.
Just not sure about the 'half swede' seats.
callahan said:
I like the later Type R, but don't they have some inherent issues? Fuel economy might not be ideal either. Definitely on the list.
The 3 series coupe looks good too.
I had thought about the Pug Gti but really can't bear white cars, I'm not really sure why. Does an RCZ have rear seats? I'm guessing they're tiny, or they would show them in the adverts. Good looking cars though.
FN2 type r GT is good value now and £5k gets you a nice one. I looked at a few when replacing my Celica and also after owning a Civic 1.8 VTEC. Drove a few but never bought one. I remember it being more refined than I expected although the ride is hard. No issues I can think of. Squeaky clutch pedal maybe.The 3 series coupe looks good too.
I had thought about the Pug Gti but really can't bear white cars, I'm not really sure why. Does an RCZ have rear seats? I'm guessing they're tiny, or they would show them in the adverts. Good looking cars though.
I actually bought a 325i coupe instead which I've just sold. Really good car and a great all rounder. I'd call it capable rather than fun though. The engine is lovely, silky smooth and sounds great. It's a heavy car and very comfy and refined for daily use. Quite agile for a big car. Big bills when things go wrong though.
RCZ I've always liked. It's a nice shape and they're getting cheap. I've not been in one but I'd say the back seats would be no worse than a gt86. Headroom is probably poor.
The 208 is available in other colours, not just white! I drove one a couple of weeks ago. It was only a short drive so I didn't get to really test it but it felt like any other supermini. I think I get it. A hot hatch for those who don't really want a hot hatch. There's no real compromise and it'd be absolutely fine and painless to use daily. Undoubtedly quick though but I felt the engine was slightly laggy, then whoooooph. Not the most exciting car perhaps.
If you want a cheap, cool 4 seat coupe you might be able to find a late model (06) Celica vvtli in T sport or GT trim. I had a T sport and it was excellent. Quite sensible most of the time but manic engine when you rev it, similar to the Honda. Seats 4 okay and a decent boot. I loved mine and would probably have kept it if we hadn't needed a family car.
V8RX7 said:
Ok put these in order:
FWD / 4WD / RWD
Coupe / Saloon / Hatchback / Convertible
Fun / Image / Costs / Reliability
What cars have you liked / hated
RWD / AWD / FWDFWD / 4WD / RWD
Coupe / Saloon / Hatchback / Convertible
Fun / Image / Costs / Reliability
What cars have you liked / hated
Coupe etc - not bothered, but most 4 seat convertibles are not great.
Fun / costs / reliability / image
Most fun - mk1 mx5, Boxster 2.5, WRX, 200sx, c36 in that order (all owned by me). Clio 182 was fun too as was a Fiesta sportvan.
Hated - A Peugeot small mpv thing and a Rover 45 I borrowed. A very old girlfriend's Vauxhall Viva.
Thanks
callahan said:
Great list, thanks.
I like the later Type R, but don't they have some inherent issues? Fuel economy might not be ideal either. Definitely on the list.
The 3 series coupe looks good too.
I had thought about the Pug Gti but really can't bear white cars, I'm not really sure why. Does an RCZ have rear seats? I'm guessing they're tiny, or they would show them in the adverts. Good looking cars though.
I do like the 5 pot ST a lot but the adverts always look a bit shabby, as if they've been part of a drugs bust.
Another leftfield option I saw was a Giulietta Cloverleaf that you linked to on another thread: https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/202...
With your budget you won't get a Cloverleaf for your budget but you will get yourself a nice 170 Veloce:I like the later Type R, but don't they have some inherent issues? Fuel economy might not be ideal either. Definitely on the list.
The 3 series coupe looks good too.
I had thought about the Pug Gti but really can't bear white cars, I'm not really sure why. Does an RCZ have rear seats? I'm guessing they're tiny, or they would show them in the adverts. Good looking cars though.
I do like the 5 pot ST a lot but the adverts always look a bit shabby, as if they've been part of a drugs bust.
Another leftfield option I saw was a Giulietta Cloverleaf that you linked to on another thread: https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/202...
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/202...
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/202...
You'll have to add another 1k for a Cloverleaf but if you can then it's a good choice:
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/202...
Thanks chrisH72, good summary of all the cars.
I agree with the point about the 3 series being very capable but not so exciting. The risk of expensive repairs is ever present too.
I really like the last Celica too, I remember test driving them when they were new (to replace my 200sx) but needed more space for child number 1.
Celica or Type R seem to be the favourites so far.
Oh, and good point about the white Pug, I really don't like white cars but realise it is possible to get other colours. I'm not sure if they've produced many great cars since the 306 though.
I agree with the point about the 3 series being very capable but not so exciting. The risk of expensive repairs is ever present too.
I really like the last Celica too, I remember test driving them when they were new (to replace my 200sx) but needed more space for child number 1.
Celica or Type R seem to be the favourites so far.
Oh, and good point about the white Pug, I really don't like white cars but realise it is possible to get other colours. I'm not sure if they've produced many great cars since the 306 though.
You could maybe look at the 125i.
For £5k there are a few around, probably SE spec rather than M sport but I wouldn't worry too much about that. I actually enjoyed my 325i SE and never wanted an M sport as it rode better imo. The 1 series uses the older N52 engine which doesn't have direct injection so is a bit more straightforward and reliable. It's obviously smaller and lighter than the 3 series too which should make it more fun. RWD, coupe, 4 seats and 60 in 6.4. sounds like it could do the trick.
For £5k there are a few around, probably SE spec rather than M sport but I wouldn't worry too much about that. I actually enjoyed my 325i SE and never wanted an M sport as it rode better imo. The 1 series uses the older N52 engine which doesn't have direct injection so is a bit more straightforward and reliable. It's obviously smaller and lighter than the 3 series too which should make it more fun. RWD, coupe, 4 seats and 60 in 6.4. sounds like it could do the trick.
Interesting, normally whenever a 130i gets mentioned everyone is creaming over it and it's gets amazing praise just for being rwd, now a 125i Coupe is just a warm hatch with a 6 cylinder engine??
Then you get the 3 series guys telling you those are the best thing since sliced bread, normally by now Mr TIDY WILL have told us all about his 3 series for the ten millionth time.
Op please go and drive some of the hot hatches like the civic type r, golf gti/scirocco, renaultsport megane, focus st an their derived coupes and a 125i, personally I have found I have considerably more fun driving my civic type r than any of the BMW range lower than a M3.
wild card suggestions are the Nissan skyline 350gt, a 4 seater 350z, the Mazda RX8 and Hyundai coupe
Then you get the 3 series guys telling you those are the best thing since sliced bread, normally by now Mr TIDY WILL have told us all about his 3 series for the ten millionth time.
Op please go and drive some of the hot hatches like the civic type r, golf gti/scirocco, renaultsport megane, focus st an their derived coupes and a 125i, personally I have found I have considerably more fun driving my civic type r than any of the BMW range lower than a M3.
wild card suggestions are the Nissan skyline 350gt, a 4 seater 350z, the Mazda RX8 and Hyundai coupe
Edited by aka_kerrly on Friday 10th July 03:16
I have read about adding M3 suspension parts to a 125/130i to improve it, which seems fair enough.
RX8 - always wanted one, but the fuel economy and reliability issues kill it for me in this instance.
The Scirocco is an interesting one. I know it’s a Gti in a less practical dress, but there seems to be more of them around at sensible prices. Could be a good option.
I’m going to try to line up some test drives, Type R first.
RX8 - always wanted one, but the fuel economy and reliability issues kill it for me in this instance.
The Scirocco is an interesting one. I know it’s a Gti in a less practical dress, but there seems to be more of them around at sensible prices. Could be a good option.
I’m going to try to line up some test drives, Type R first.
aka_kerrly said:
Interesting, normally whenever a 130i gets mentioned everyone is creaming over it and it's gets amazing praise just for being rwd, now a 125i Coupe is just a warm hatch with a 6 cylinder engine??
Then you get the 3 series guys telling you those are the best thing since sliced bread, normally by now Mr TIDY WILL have told us all about his 3 series for the ten millionth time.
Op please go and drive some of the hot hatches like the civic type r, golf gti/scirocco, renaultsport megane, focus st an their derived coupes and a 125i, personally I have found I have considerably more fun driving my civic type r than any of the BMW range lower than a M3.
wild card suggestions are the Nissan skyline 350gt, a 4 seater 350z, the Mazda RX8 and Hyundai coupe
I was actually reffering to the 130i I will say warm hatch is a bit harsh, lets call it mini GT but put up against proper hot hatches the 130i will be left down an A Road, unless you add some M3 parts.Then you get the 3 series guys telling you those are the best thing since sliced bread, normally by now Mr TIDY WILL have told us all about his 3 series for the ten millionth time.
Op please go and drive some of the hot hatches like the civic type r, golf gti/scirocco, renaultsport megane, focus st an their derived coupes and a 125i, personally I have found I have considerably more fun driving my civic type r than any of the BMW range lower than a M3.
wild card suggestions are the Nissan skyline 350gt, a 4 seater 350z, the Mazda RX8 and Hyundai coupe
Edited by aka_kerrly on Friday 10th July 03:16
I've been pretty consistent on this view pretty much since the 130i was introduced this & the Golf R32 are great cars (I have a soft spot for the R32) but neither are hot hatches in the traditional sense of one.
It's my main reason for suggesting a 330i instead as they pretty much drive the same so why not have one with the nicer/more spacious interior.
The Skyline 350GT is a good shout but trying to get one at the moment is hard work.
Just thought I’d update this thread with my final decision, which although all suggestions were very helpful, wasn’t one of them!
To be fair I did break my budget by almost 3k and have placed a deposit on a Fiesta ST. I just couldn’t resist once I’d driven it. Looking forward to getting it next week and seeing how I get on with the suspension....
Thanks again for the help, I think the Focus and CTR suggestions led the way to the Fiesta, probably.
To be fair I did break my budget by almost 3k and have placed a deposit on a Fiesta ST. I just couldn’t resist once I’d driven it. Looking forward to getting it next week and seeing how I get on with the suspension....
Thanks again for the help, I think the Focus and CTR suggestions led the way to the Fiesta, probably.
Hehe that was the conclusion I came to as well!
Had my ST for just over a week now and I'm loving it. Okay so the ride is firm but I don't find it uncomfortable and it is a hot hatch after all. It just feels so eager and alert, the only issue I'm having is that everyone else seems to want to drive so sloooooooow.
Enjoy.
Had my ST for just over a week now and I'm loving it. Okay so the ride is firm but I don't find it uncomfortable and it is a hot hatch after all. It just feels so eager and alert, the only issue I'm having is that everyone else seems to want to drive so sloooooooow.
Enjoy.
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