When I had a mid-life crisis to consider obtaining a bike licence, I was struck by how expensive even quite old models were.

Consider, for example, the following comparison:

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Whilst I accept bikes have an outright performance advantage, they do this mainly because they weigh a darned sight less than a car. Their specific output in terms of BHP/litre is a bit higher, too - but it's still only piston and valve technology, not a fusion reactor on wheels.

Other than an engine, we have a bit of frame, a rudimentary seat, two wheels and some fancy graphics. You get a fair bit more for your money in the XJ.

Supply and demand? Pampered boys' toys? Read more

Whilst the motoring link is perhaps a little thin, given the amazingly long threads here about policing, I thought any Backroomers who are not already aware of Inpector Gadget might find him interesting.

He's a serving police inspector (who remains currently anonymous) with a much visited blog, and he's just had a book published called "Perverting the Course of Justice".

I can assure you that unless you write it off as total fiction then your blood pressure will rise as you read it - but it does give some very detailed stories about the realities of policing in Britain today (and does include some talk about traffic fatalities etc, and why and how the police do what they do, hence the motoring link).

Much of it is very sobering, but some of it is amusing.

Very recommended. Read more

I'm looking for a car that I can keep probably for less than a year before upgrading to a more professional motor, would like something a little sporty but not ostentatious and around the £4000 mark. I have seen a 54 reg Astra coupe 1.8i (not convertible), metallic red with 31k on the clock.

The tag was £4695, I've effectively got that down to £4295 (£3600 with part ex of an old Almera SRi) which seems a little top heavy but the dealer wouldn't push any further. It has a few minor scuffs and chips to the paintwork but no obvious sign of significant damage, however the 17" alloys do show a few (albeit relatively minor) signs of curb damage. The interior looks well cared for and it has a full service history, no receipts for work done though.

Has anyone any experience of these (particularly servicing / reliability) and could let me know if this seems reasonable? Thanks in advance. Read more

Only 12 months ago. What a sea change in attitude to a class of cars in such a short time.

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What are your impressions as you read through this - contrasted with today?

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Now then guys, its been a while. Hope everyone is well...

I've recentley set up my own company (even in todays climate, i know!) and need a bigger car for carrying stock and commuting around 30 miles a day. I currently drive a 2004 Audi A3 2.0 tdi sport but i'm looking to change it for a Passat. I like the size of it, but i have just looked at the C-B-C Breakdown and its kinda put me off! I like the performance of the 2.0 but would like an auto as a luxury.

Could anyone shed any light on real life ownership on a day to day basis? I am looking at somethin with around 80k on it as it falls within budget. I know a number of you will reccommend the Mondeo right haha or have you guys gone off it? Not been on here in a while like i said...

Cheers in advance...


Sunny Read more