: Fiat Grande Punto T-Jet
A worthy upgrade from a Ford Ka
"I wanted something subtle, different and quick-ish. The insurance costs for an Abarth were comical so I settled on a T-Jet (which shares the engine with the Abarth). Finding one was a different story! I knew exactly what spec I wanted: a series two with the smoked headlights, optional alloys and cruise control, so naturally I had to wait a while for it. Six months to be exact, then two came up and I broke the biggest rule in the world; I bought the first one I saw."
What I wish I'd known:
"Not a great deal if I'm honest. I took my time researching what to look out for on these, and thankfully they aren't built like Fiats of yesteryears. I do wish I'd known how much the spark plugs were though; they're iridium tipped which means they're fantastically expensive compared to normal ones. Other than that, nothing."
Things I love:
"The engine. It chirps and whistles, and the exhaust pops and bangs when you've got your foot down. It makes me smile, and if a car can do that on the commute then it has to be good! But when I'm not driving like my hair is on fire I still manage decent fuel economy, and while the ride is very firm, it's comfortable enough to drive with very good seats. People do seem to look at it, although that may be because of the exhaust and stripes, so they probably think I have a tiny willy or something... but I don't care! I bought this car because I liked it, not because of what people thought, otherwise I would be in another dull German diesel box."
Looks a big part of the appeal
"I'm struggling to think of much if I'm honest. The only thing I can really think of is that the local chavs like to try and coax me into traffic light GPs with them which I mostly ignore."
Costs:
"Other than consumables, it's cost me a spring (I blame the roads around here more than the car itself). I did have a custom exhaust fitted which fits in the bumper well and doesn't sound antisocially loud. It's been surprisingly reliable!"
Where I've been:
"A few road trips, Birmingham, Peak district and a couple of trips to Cheddar for a drive around there!"
What's next?:
"A Ford Focus ST. A Mk2 facelift ST-2 in any colour but orange with the Mountune kit. Can you tell I've decided yet? Power and noise. Can't go wrong!"
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