350Z/370Z, Z4C, Z4 35i, 135i/335i, XKR/XFR, Monaro, or...?
Discussion
Following on from my earlier thread, comparing the Nissan 350Z v 370Z with occasional comparisons to the Z4 Coupe, having read the comments to that thread (a really good thread, by the way, very useful and enjoyable!), it actually gave me some points to ponder, and that leads to some interesting possibilities that I want to discuss here.
For starters, I think I am almost certainly going to sell the MX5. It's been an absolute blast to drive, especially with the Super 200 pack it has fitted, but I think I'm now after something with more luxury and refinement, and preferably an engine with at least 6 cylinders (5 would also be acceptable, though). I'm feeling drawn to cars with a more muscular vibe, something that just has a bit more of a special feel, and just as nice to drive slow as drive quickly.
I have therefore narrowed my choice down to these contenders, but I am also open to suggestions. I will have £10K to spend in spring (though I am quite happy to spend less), and don't want anything that would be too ruinous in terms of maintenance or reliability. I am mostly looking at Coupes.
Nissan 350Z / 370Z
This was my first choice, hence the original thread. As an ex-owner of a 350Z Roadster, it seems like a safe choice, with good reliability and reasonable running costs. Easy to get a good noise with intakes and exhausts. Fairly comfortable to own and drive. Good looking. Early 350Z might be doable for around £5k with some shopping around and delivers the core thrills, but I do like the appearance of the 370Z and the rev matching feature and more modern interior are attractive and I think it probably is worth the extra money. The big Z has a lot of character and charm. I have heard some complaints about loud tyre noise and the a droning exhaust particularly in the Coupes.
BMW Z4 Coupe 3.0 Si / E89 35i
I still really like the look of these. Again, I am an ex-owner of an auto E86. I think they feel a bit more grown up than the Nissans. The earlier E86 Coupe should be a mostly trouble free ownership experience and low running costs. Lovely engines in these. Enough speed for me really from my memory of mine, but the E89 with its turbocharged engine has a lot more potential in this area, and the E89 also seems to have a much nicer interior, but it's a lot more tubby than the earlier car. I think the early car has better looks, although the E89 has the potential of the convertible, I've read some cars suffer from motor failure in the soft tops, and I understand the 35i engine has it's own set of issues.
BMW 135i / 335i
As an all round car both of these seem a fairly solid choice with their RWD, the option for manual box, and their powerful 6-cylinder turbocharged engine. I would also consider the auto if it was a good gearbox with good reliability. These have some tuning potential too, with around 380 bhp from a remap and some light mods. This would potentially give me a significantly faster car than the earlier suggestions. Although I am somewhat concerned that they will be a little bit dull in a way and not really special enough after the other two. I do feel the 135i would feel more special than the 335i, with it's 'poor man's 1M' kind of vibe. The 335i I'm guessing will be the more comfortable and refined option.
Jaguar XKR
I must admit, I've been hearing these being talked about for a while, and having looked into, it seems as though they are not actually too bad to run and live with. Affordable and robust by all accounts, obviously, apart from the petrol consumption. My budget would see me into a 4.2 Supercharged model. I really like the way these look and it presents me with a chance to get into a V8 car while I can. They are also absolutely gorgeous looking cars. Fast, a V8 noise, gorgeous and supremely comfortable. I am asking myself what's not to like?
Jaguar XFR V8
Another way into a V8 is the XFR which is just dropping towards affordable now. I do quite like these, but I think I prefer the XKR for it's looks and the fact I'm not needlessly dragging around 2 extra seats. I don't know if I would need a brave pill for a 5.0 V8 XFR at the bottom end of the market though?
Vauxhall / Holden Monaro
And yet another way into a V8 is an early / lower spec Monaro. It certainly ticks the big engine box, but I've never been sold on the looks, and I don't know what they're like in terms of running costs. However, it seems to be a depreciation-free motor and they do have their fans. Not sure about the tall gearing though. However, one thing is for sure, it'll be a hugely different experience to an MX5.
Those are my choices so far, any thoughts or discussions or anything I've missed that I should be considering?
For starters, I think I am almost certainly going to sell the MX5. It's been an absolute blast to drive, especially with the Super 200 pack it has fitted, but I think I'm now after something with more luxury and refinement, and preferably an engine with at least 6 cylinders (5 would also be acceptable, though). I'm feeling drawn to cars with a more muscular vibe, something that just has a bit more of a special feel, and just as nice to drive slow as drive quickly.
I have therefore narrowed my choice down to these contenders, but I am also open to suggestions. I will have £10K to spend in spring (though I am quite happy to spend less), and don't want anything that would be too ruinous in terms of maintenance or reliability. I am mostly looking at Coupes.
Nissan 350Z / 370Z
This was my first choice, hence the original thread. As an ex-owner of a 350Z Roadster, it seems like a safe choice, with good reliability and reasonable running costs. Easy to get a good noise with intakes and exhausts. Fairly comfortable to own and drive. Good looking. Early 350Z might be doable for around £5k with some shopping around and delivers the core thrills, but I do like the appearance of the 370Z and the rev matching feature and more modern interior are attractive and I think it probably is worth the extra money. The big Z has a lot of character and charm. I have heard some complaints about loud tyre noise and the a droning exhaust particularly in the Coupes.
BMW Z4 Coupe 3.0 Si / E89 35i
I still really like the look of these. Again, I am an ex-owner of an auto E86. I think they feel a bit more grown up than the Nissans. The earlier E86 Coupe should be a mostly trouble free ownership experience and low running costs. Lovely engines in these. Enough speed for me really from my memory of mine, but the E89 with its turbocharged engine has a lot more potential in this area, and the E89 also seems to have a much nicer interior, but it's a lot more tubby than the earlier car. I think the early car has better looks, although the E89 has the potential of the convertible, I've read some cars suffer from motor failure in the soft tops, and I understand the 35i engine has it's own set of issues.
BMW 135i / 335i
As an all round car both of these seem a fairly solid choice with their RWD, the option for manual box, and their powerful 6-cylinder turbocharged engine. I would also consider the auto if it was a good gearbox with good reliability. These have some tuning potential too, with around 380 bhp from a remap and some light mods. This would potentially give me a significantly faster car than the earlier suggestions. Although I am somewhat concerned that they will be a little bit dull in a way and not really special enough after the other two. I do feel the 135i would feel more special than the 335i, with it's 'poor man's 1M' kind of vibe. The 335i I'm guessing will be the more comfortable and refined option.
Jaguar XKR
I must admit, I've been hearing these being talked about for a while, and having looked into, it seems as though they are not actually too bad to run and live with. Affordable and robust by all accounts, obviously, apart from the petrol consumption. My budget would see me into a 4.2 Supercharged model. I really like the way these look and it presents me with a chance to get into a V8 car while I can. They are also absolutely gorgeous looking cars. Fast, a V8 noise, gorgeous and supremely comfortable. I am asking myself what's not to like?
Jaguar XFR V8
Another way into a V8 is the XFR which is just dropping towards affordable now. I do quite like these, but I think I prefer the XKR for it's looks and the fact I'm not needlessly dragging around 2 extra seats. I don't know if I would need a brave pill for a 5.0 V8 XFR at the bottom end of the market though?
Vauxhall / Holden Monaro
And yet another way into a V8 is an early / lower spec Monaro. It certainly ticks the big engine box, but I've never been sold on the looks, and I don't know what they're like in terms of running costs. However, it seems to be a depreciation-free motor and they do have their fans. Not sure about the tall gearing though. However, one thing is for sure, it'll be a hugely different experience to an MX5.
Those are my choices so far, any thoughts or discussions or anything I've missed that I should be considering?
ZX10R NIN said:
I think this is an easier one to get an answer to, with the Nissan's some light fettling you'll have the aural pleasure even at low speeds, now with the BMW's they'll give you bigger gains for every £ (BHP wise) spent BUT you'll need to spend more (especially on the Z4) on suspension than you will on the Nissan's .
One area that the BMW's fall short is on the gearshift which I find a bit rubbery.
GET THE 370!!!!!!!!!!
Thanks mate! I must admit to being quite drawn to the XKR at the minute. Poor mans Aston Martin One area that the BMW's fall short is on the gearshift which I find a bit rubbery.
GET THE 370!!!!!!!!!!
I'll feel like an Aldi version of James Bond 
ZX10R NIN said:
If you can live with an auto & want a modern classic then in my very bias opinion you should get a CLK55 amg 
Good steer they feel special at low or high speed & are pretty much bulletproof:
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202211262...
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202201141...
Nice, I will add it to the list, although I've got to admit that AMG mercs scare me the same way a Porsche would (bork factor). These OK then?Good steer they feel special at low or high speed & are pretty much bulletproof:
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202211262...
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202201141...
ChrisH72 said:
Surely you'd be Tang Ling Zao from Die Another Day??
I'm not really into James Bond as you can tell, but I googled it and made the connection 
ZX10R NIN said:
They're pretty much bulletproof, the worst job is the spark plug change, check to make sure the oil cooler has been changed as it could contaminant the cooling system.
In most cases his will have been changed as it was an early issue.
In most cases his will have been changed as it was an early issue.
will keep it in mind!car user said:
On the topic of the Z4/135/335 N54 cars:
The 335i really does everything better than the 135i. If you want the car to feel special then the Z4 is the one with more focus. All 3 options are capable of 420bhp with just an intercooler and catless downpipes so there's no benefit when it comes to power.
The Z4 handles better than the 335i and puts the power down a lot better. It's a lot easier to work on and it has much more room for wider wheels and bigger intercoolers when you want to go for bigger power. If you get the adaptive suspension it's also more comfortable than an MSport 335i in "Normal" mode and sharper in "Sport" mode.
I still prefer the 335i as an overall package though. The 335i is much more modest looking, it's also quite practical with the folding rear seats. The 335i coupe also has a nicer exhaust note than the Z4.
The manual transmission options in the 135/335 are ok (some complain about them being notchy) but the 6 speed auto is crap. They did bring the 7 speed DCT to the 135 and 335 in 2009/2010 so those are worth considering but will cost a premium.
The engine doesn't really make much noise at low speeds though so if you want a sense of occasion then consider something with a V8.
Thanks for the feedback, sounds like the Z4 would be the way to go if going for the BMW route. Surprised the 335i is better than the 135i ! They are cheaper too. All that being said, about that V8...The 335i really does everything better than the 135i. If you want the car to feel special then the Z4 is the one with more focus. All 3 options are capable of 420bhp with just an intercooler and catless downpipes so there's no benefit when it comes to power.
The Z4 handles better than the 335i and puts the power down a lot better. It's a lot easier to work on and it has much more room for wider wheels and bigger intercoolers when you want to go for bigger power. If you get the adaptive suspension it's also more comfortable than an MSport 335i in "Normal" mode and sharper in "Sport" mode.
I still prefer the 335i as an overall package though. The 335i is much more modest looking, it's also quite practical with the folding rear seats. The 335i coupe also has a nicer exhaust note than the Z4.
The manual transmission options in the 135/335 are ok (some complain about them being notchy) but the 6 speed auto is crap. They did bring the 7 speed DCT to the 135 and 335 in 2009/2010 so those are worth considering but will cost a premium.
The engine doesn't really make much noise at low speeds though so if you want a sense of occasion then consider something with a V8.
SWoll said:
If an XKR/XFR are considered I'd suggest saving another couple of grand as far better cars available at that price point than the bottom of the barrel options at £10k. Will almost certainly cost you less in the long run.
I've been looking at the XK / XKR all night now. I feel like I'm really leaning that direction. They seem to be reliable, don't seem to cost the earth to run considering what they are, and honestly, I'm seeing few downsides.If it was truly worth it, I could probably stretch the budget if as you say it might cost less in the long run.
Mr Tidy said:
Quite a variety of options there.
You seem to be getting drawn towards a V8 though. Personally I'd go for a Monaro because you can get them with a manual gearbox! And I'd hope a Chevy V8 would be pretty bullet-proof.
But if you don't mind an Auto I can see the appeal of an XKR or something AMG.
The very tall gearing slightly puts me off the Monaro, but I can see your point. Ultimately though I think I could tolerate an auto with some flappy paddles in exchange for a nice grunty V8!You seem to be getting drawn towards a V8 though. Personally I'd go for a Monaro because you can get them with a manual gearbox! And I'd hope a Chevy V8 would be pretty bullet-proof.
But if you don't mind an Auto I can see the appeal of an XKR or something AMG.
Krikkit said:
My Mrs has an X150 4.2 XK8 and it's a fantastic car - with the electronic dampers it's really a car of two halves, in "normal" auto it mooches along quite nicely with the rumbly V8, slurred slushbox etc.
Move it into sport mode and it's much more exciting - the dampers firm up the ride, touch a paddle and it's in full manual mode with the ZF 6HP doing a decent job, the noise is great (the XKR will be even better).
We've had a couple of the common issues with it - thermostat and AC pipes, but neither were hard to sort. Parts are plentiful (a lot of the common running gear like brakes are shared with the XF) and it's an easy car to work on.
Absolutely recommend it.
I'm feeling a lot of want for these Jags at the minute for sure. Move it into sport mode and it's much more exciting - the dampers firm up the ride, touch a paddle and it's in full manual mode with the ZF 6HP doing a decent job, the noise is great (the XKR will be even better).
We've had a couple of the common issues with it - thermostat and AC pipes, but neither were hard to sort. Parts are plentiful (a lot of the common running gear like brakes are shared with the XF) and it's an easy car to work on.
Absolutely recommend it.
300bhp/ton said:
Out of your list, the Jag certainly has the most 'supercar' visuals. Even today they look like a premium vehicle.
I've not had a go in a x150, I'm lead to believe they are a bit more GT than sports car. Despite the aluminium construction they weigh quite a bit more than my Camaro.
But I'd say they are going to have the best sense of occasion too. Nice interior and great to be in at all times. But with enough entertainment should you want to throw it round some bends.
Rear seats look tiny though.
Personally don't see the appeal of the 135/355 in this context. They don't have the wow factor or visuals. Good cars if you need more practicality though.
The 370z/Z4 should be fun at all times, but you've already been there done it sort of thing. Maybe time to try something else?
Not mention for the Monaro, but they are more niche in the UK, as in there aren't many.
Big heavy car, although probably not that different to the Jag, despite looking like they should be bigger. Quite an event, but much more of a muscle car. But it is the only one that will give you an OHV V8 soundtrack.
If you are happy with more cruising and GT style, I'd be going Jag too out of your list. Although I'd also say you could probably include some Mustangs and Corvettes too depending on your exact budget.
Thanks mate. I would agree the Jag is far more special / exotic looking than the other choices, with the 370Z and Z4 Coupe taking the the following spots. The rear seats won't really matter for me as I don't need to carry passengers. Nice to have, I guess, but clearly not a deal breaker.I've not had a go in a x150, I'm lead to believe they are a bit more GT than sports car. Despite the aluminium construction they weigh quite a bit more than my Camaro.
But I'd say they are going to have the best sense of occasion too. Nice interior and great to be in at all times. But with enough entertainment should you want to throw it round some bends.
Rear seats look tiny though.
Personally don't see the appeal of the 135/355 in this context. They don't have the wow factor or visuals. Good cars if you need more practicality though.
The 370z/Z4 should be fun at all times, but you've already been there done it sort of thing. Maybe time to try something else?
Not mention for the Monaro, but they are more niche in the UK, as in there aren't many.
Big heavy car, although probably not that different to the Jag, despite looking like they should be bigger. Quite an event, but much more of a muscle car. But it is the only one that will give you an OHV V8 soundtrack.
If you are happy with more cruising and GT style, I'd be going Jag too out of your list. Although I'd also say you could probably include some Mustangs and Corvettes too depending on your exact budget.
I feel like the 135/335 would just be too dull and I'm not sold on the reliability of these.
As you say, with the Z cars, I've been there and done that with all of them. The 370Z is still a strong contender in my book, but I just don't think it would match the Jag for being a sense of occasion, nor do I believe the V6 can match the V8 for grins.
The Monaro is a curious car, but I have to say I'm still not a fan of the looks or that classically 'VX' interior, and £10k is the minimum price of entry for one of those things, and I think a decent one would be above budget really.
I think I am more happy with the GT / cruising driving style these days. I've been buying little thrash boxes for most of the last 25 years, and I'm ready for a change.
It's probably a silly point, but the thing keeping me away from Mustangs and Corvettes is the LHD element and a RHD Mustang 5.0 is way beyond my budget, which realistically is £10k but I could push that a little if that car was genuinely worth stretching to.
300bhp/ton said:
LHD can be a blocker I agree. Think it comes down to where you drive too, it works better in some places than it does in others.
Sounds like it is going to be a Jaguar day then!
Looks like it. Just got to tidy the MX5 up and get it sold so I can start looking properly! Sounds like it is going to be a Jaguar day then!
coldel said:
Which Jag are we talking about? The older 2001 ish ones I think look terribly dated. Not sure why they switched shape (was it around 2006?) these I agree look better. Still think the Z4C looks a better super car but obviously doesnt have a sweet V8!
Looking at your list, if you have had a 350z and Z4C then dont go back there. I never buy the same car twice I love to experience cars.
Yep coldel, it's the x150 shape Jag, rather than the old looking one.Looking at your list, if you have had a 350z and Z4C then dont go back there. I never buy the same car twice I love to experience cars.
I guess I was willing to revisit the 350/70z because previously I had a roadster so would go for the coupe. For the z4c I had an auto so would go for the manual.
Must admit though I do still find the z4c very attractive, a thought rammed home again seeing the one Deep thought had just sold in silver with CSLs. It's a seriously lovely looking car.
I've got a couple of months to make up my mind. I prefer to do this now as my mind can often change from one day to the next, but eventually a pattern emerges which helps me decide. This happened with the Boxster but that didn't last long. I may have still had that car if it wasn't for what happened.
I do know what you're saying about not having the same car twice, though but my time with all of my 6 cylinder sports cars were cut prematurely short, I never seen to own any for more than a year before something has to give.
300bhp/ton said:
I believe TRD is looking at what is known as the x150. This was an all new car using a bonded and riveted all aluminium structure. Partly based on the x350 saloon which uses the same technique. The F-Type was then developed from these.
The have a bit more of a blunt nose than the XK8. But still a very pretty and elegant looking car IMO.
Although I must confess I do adore the styling of the original X100 XK’s. More sleek and a lower profile nose. But the x100 while using the same basic engines has a floor pan based on the XJS. The same as you’d find under an Aston DB7. Good cars still, but quite a different feel.
The have a bit more of a blunt nose than the XK8. But still a very pretty and elegant looking car IMO.
Although I must confess I do adore the styling of the original X100 XK’s. More sleek and a lower profile nose. But the x100 while using the same basic engines has a floor pan based on the XJS. The same as you’d find under an Aston DB7. Good cars still, but quite a different feel.
I think the x100 is just a bit too long in the tooth for me.. Another noteworthy improvement for the x150 is the aluminium body, which weighs less and is less vulnerable to the dreaded tin worm. Pre 99 models also have potential nikasil issues.Patrick Bateman said:
I think I'm now after something with more luxury and refinement, and preferably an engine with at least 6 cylinders (5 would also be acceptable, though). I'm feeling drawn to cars with a more muscular vibe, something that just has a bit more of a special feel, and just as nice to drive slow as drive quickly.
XKR absolutely nails this brief more than any other car on your list IMO. We spoke in the Z4 thread recently on this and obviously I have some bias given I'm a new owner but I had similar criteria to you.
Everybody loves it, people complement it all the time, easily more than any other car I've had. I'm a fan of fast saloons but an XFR/3 series/similar will not feel anywhere near as special when you're pottering around at 30mph.
Budget could be a bit tight, but not by too much.
Ah yes I remember now, you got bored waiting for the right z4c at the right price.XKR absolutely nails this brief more than any other car on your list IMO. We spoke in the Z4 thread recently on this and obviously I have some bias given I'm a new owner but I had similar criteria to you.
Everybody loves it, people complement it all the time, easily more than any other car I've had. I'm a fan of fast saloons but an XFR/3 series/similar will not feel anywhere near as special when you're pottering around at 30mph.
Budget could be a bit tight, but not by too much.
How you finding it at the moment?
In terms of budget I might be able to stretch a bit for the right car, but it would have to be the right car.
Alternatively, I wonder if I'd feel short changed if the budget had to drop and I looked towards an n/a XK 4.2 instead? It's quite down on power but some people have made compelling cases for going for one over the XKR. I just don't want that feeling that I should have stretched and got the real deal!
coldel said:
Yes you are looking at good XKs at 10k or bottom of the barrel XKRs
Its that thing where you wonder what you are missing out on.
You need that same view that you got on the Z4C that its 80% of a Z4MC but 50% of the price. You need something similar here.
The situation is similar I guess, but with the Jag, without having any experience, it would seem that the XK is maybe 75% of the car for 75% of the price, unlike the M car that costs double it's lesser brethren. That said, it can still offer the all important V8 noise, but I have a feeling I would probably prefer to stretch to an XKR. There doesn't seem as though there'd be a massive difference in running costs either?Its that thing where you wonder what you are missing out on.
You need that same view that you got on the Z4C that its 80% of a Z4MC but 50% of the price. You need something similar here.
SFTWend said:
The X150 appeals and I can understand you wanting something different. Get a V8 and enjoy before its too late. I'm actually looking for a nice NC, BBR a bonus, but don't want to wait a couple of months.
A car that remains under most peoples radar is the BMW 650. Much quicker than the XK8 but can't match a XKR. I owned one completely trouble free from 55k to 80k miles and it was a superb daily driver. I've also owned a 350Z and imo the beemer is in another class in terms of performance, comfort, build quality and refinement. And the ladies love the look of them. Your budget should get you one of the very best lower mileage ones out there. Just be warned that because they are under the radar resale needs patience. I've read they can have problems with oil stem seals and oil leaks so you'd need to do a bit of homework.
I have considered the 650i but my mate had a 645i and he liked it but he thinks I would prefer the Jag and says it would be more reliable too. One to bear in mind, so thanks!A car that remains under most peoples radar is the BMW 650. Much quicker than the XK8 but can't match a XKR. I owned one completely trouble free from 55k to 80k miles and it was a superb daily driver. I've also owned a 350Z and imo the beemer is in another class in terms of performance, comfort, build quality and refinement. And the ladies love the look of them. Your budget should get you one of the very best lower mileage ones out there. Just be warned that because they are under the radar resale needs patience. I've read they can have problems with oil stem seals and oil leaks so you'd need to do a bit of homework.
Patrick Bateman said:
It's fantastic, absolutely no regrets even if it likes too much booze. Petrol ain't going to get much cheaper though and I wanted another V8 before they're all a bit too old. FWIW I got mine for £11k at smidge over 100k miles.
I haven't driven the N/A 4.2 so can't offer a direct comparison (mine also has a 10% reduction pulley on it so it'll be quicker than standard) but I'd take the extra 120bhp for slightly worse fuel economy. What sort of miles do you do?
I don't know what sort of figures mine is actually putting out but I pinned it in second last week and at about 4500rpm it felt like someone had ignited a rocket, genuinely got a bit of a fleg. Seemed noticeably quicker than my old 2001 M5 which was no slouch itself.
Certainly in the 'this is definitely quick enough' category for sheer speed thrills and I'm confident that wouldn't be the case with the N/A car.
Thanks Patrick, interesting impressions. I don't think £11k is too bad to be honest, about the same as a decent Z4C Auto! I haven't driven the N/A 4.2 so can't offer a direct comparison (mine also has a 10% reduction pulley on it so it'll be quicker than standard) but I'd take the extra 120bhp for slightly worse fuel economy. What sort of miles do you do?
I don't know what sort of figures mine is actually putting out but I pinned it in second last week and at about 4500rpm it felt like someone had ignited a rocket, genuinely got a bit of a fleg. Seemed noticeably quicker than my old 2001 M5 which was no slouch itself.
Certainly in the 'this is definitely quick enough' category for sheer speed thrills and I'm confident that wouldn't be the case with the N/A car.
I don't think the petrol would be too concerning, I can't see myself going over 5K miles a year and it's probably less in all honesty. I've done about 4K in the MX5 this year, and that included the 300 mile journey home. Obviously it would be a pain if I had to commute in it, but I suppose I'd have to cross that bridge when if / when it comes.
I would tend to agree that the R will give the performance to back up the looks, the standard 4.2 is probably no quicker than a Z4 3.0Si really, which was certainly not a slow feeling car, but the Z4 is a good 300 kg lighter too with only 30 bhp less.
cerb4.5lee said:
It is a shame that the Cerbera isn't in your budget I reckon, and I remember a time when they were down to around £10k.
In saying that...I wouldn't wish the stress of TVR ownership on anyone to be honest.
Bit in bold - In saying that...I wouldn't wish the stress of TVR ownership on anyone to be honest.
- seriously though, I don't think that would be for me then as I get quite fed up with cars that need a lot of attention. I just want to drive the bloomin things.To be honest Lee I reckon a Trev might have been a no brainer but for the scary maintenance and running costs, I don't mind the chim but not 100% on it. That said, might be a struggle to get into one for 10k anyway.
coldel said:
Have to say I am reading up on the Jag X150. £10k is a massive struggle I think for an XKR, must be concerns around bills just around the corner on those at the bottom of the pile with 130k+ miles on. Although having googled a few modified ones, a slight lowering and spacers and it looks every inch a supercar.
TVRs I think you have to go in eyes wide open on the ongoing costs. As much as they looks and sound amazing.
I am wondering if the XK8 is the sweet spot, great choice of options, V8. Lovely.
I was tempted by a BMW 650i at some point back in time, I think its such a departure from the lighter more nimble cars I am used to. That in itself is a problem if I wanted to give it some beans. Think I would take a Jag over that for pure theatre and looks but appreciate the costs are there too for the Jag in purchase price.
I was at a meet on Sunday and saw a Renaultsport Megane 250 cup or similar, looked super nice actually I was plenty surprised. Although its FWD and 4pot.
I know what you mean about the budget. I might be able to get into one for 10k but who knows what bills might be lurking around the corner, and the extra money I'd have to put in over my mx5 means I wouldn't have loads left to spend if that happened, which would put me in a state of anxiety I think. Same with the tvr too.TVRs I think you have to go in eyes wide open on the ongoing costs. As much as they looks and sound amazing.
I am wondering if the XK8 is the sweet spot, great choice of options, V8. Lovely.
I was tempted by a BMW 650i at some point back in time, I think its such a departure from the lighter more nimble cars I am used to. That in itself is a problem if I wanted to give it some beans. Think I would take a Jag over that for pure theatre and looks but appreciate the costs are there too for the Jag in purchase price.
I was at a meet on Sunday and saw a Renaultsport Megane 250 cup or similar, looked super nice actually I was plenty surprised. Although its FWD and 4pot.
The Xk8 does look ok but I'm definitely not as sold on the looks of that, looks a little pipe and slippers for me.
The Mégane is probably the only FWD car that interests me, and I've thought about them a few times now.
I had to go out in my MX5 this morning though and despite the fact the bloody thing was sliding around like an eel on the greasy roads this morning, it did get under my skin again a bit. The fact is, it's a known quantity, doesn't owe me any money, and I could spend some on it to bring it up to my standards, is another option.
The fact is, I'm considering this because I feel like I'm a bit bored with cars and driving generally but I reckon it's just because of the crap weather over winter, I've not used it much and started getting itchy feet. Another PHer on another thread I've started recently on this topic commented that if the mx5 doesn't owe me anything then why sweat it, even if it gets used a couple of times a month only, so what?
I'm starting to question the logic of ploughing more money to try and pique my interest again, and as it seems that the cost of entry into most of the cars on my list seems to start at 12k for non ropey examples, this would obliterate all my savings and I'd then be hoping that nothing went wrong otherwise I'd be back to getting into debt for a car again, and I really, really don't want to go there again. It feels liberating having a car that's yours and owes you nowt.
Damn my fickle, never happy brain
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