Playtime

Honest John Back Room » Motoring discussion
View Threaded
Wed 27 Jul 2005 10:48
Playtime - adverse camber
I am bored with the diesel estates which are needed to ferry the kids and dogs and do commuting.

What suggestions do the panel have for a 'toy' car.

For the sake of argument, I will say up to £5k, must be reasonably easy to work on/maintain. Shouldnt cost too much to run, but should still be reliable enough for a long weekend away without fear.

Any comments re: 944, Excel, mx5 or what else ?


Reply | Report as offensive | Link
Wed 27 Jul 2005 10:54
Playtime - AngryJonny
I'd guess an MX5 would give you the best compromise for fun, reliability and budget. Maybe that or an MR2 - though I understand they're harder to work on due to their mid-engined nature.

An old Porsche will be a money pit. Don't even think about a Lotus if budget and reliability are important - they live up to the acronym.
Reply | Report as offensive | Link
Wed 27 Jul 2005 10:54
Playtime - No Do$h
£5k may get you into a Westfield lookalike kit car based on a Mk2 Escort. Simplicity itself to work on, just make sure it has had some use and isn't a recently built bodge-job.

Failing that I'd say an MX5, although remember you are looking at a car with modern electronics and fuel injection.
Reply | Report as offensive | Link
Wed 27 Jul 2005 12:25
Playtime - edisdead {P}
Not everyone's cup of tea, but I would be considering a Honda CRX 1.6 vti with the electric roof. Quick and fun.
Ed.
Reply | Report as offensive | Link
Wed 27 Jul 2005 12:32
Playtime - Adam {P}
Stick me down for Ed's suggestion too. My mate just got rid of a 1.6 CRX which had something stupid like 190bhp.

Looked the part, was quick, and very, very fun.
--
Adam
Reply | Report as offensive | Link
Wed 27 Jul 2005 17:45
Playtime - blue_haddock
How about a Peugeot 205 GTi with an MI16 conversion? very fast and with excellent handling plus it could be used for weekends away.
Reply | Report as offensive | Link
Thu 28 Jul 2005 09:46
Playtime - nick
Browse through the 'classic cars' section on eBay. Lots of ideas there, both old and more modern. Cheap classic insurance (often under £100 pa), some tax exempt and most a doddle to work on. Suprisingly reliable too, just use it regularly and change the points every 6 months or fit electronic ignition. Buy the best you can from an enthusiast, maintain its condition and enjoy zero depreciation.
Reply | Report as offensive | Link