The Car Thread

[ChrisF]

There's even a few gotchas in with the BMW line up though as the numbers aren't always the engine size (123d = 2 litre, 318i also 2 litre). Don't forget there are FIVE cars with the "3" moniker too (Ok only 4 if you don't count the M3)

They're all out to confuse and all just as guilty as each other

[Chief H]

There are actually more BMW model numbers that don't match the engine sizes now, but then that's pretty much the norm with the market how it is - it's just not cost-effective to produce 2.5-litre etc. engines anymore. Which is why you'll now see 116i's with 2-litre engines - everyone's doing the same thing now though; count the number of VW Group models that all use their new 2.0TDi CR power plants. (incidentally, that 123d is dead good fun, but the 125i is just awesome)

I've always found Mercedes to be a bit confusing though. C/CLC/CLK/CL/CLS? Volvo, however, has always impressed me with their simplicity: Coupe 30; Saloon 40/60/80; Versatility 50/70; X Country 60/70/90. Damn those Swedes and their efficiency!

[Richard.John]

That's what I mean. The Merc way is incredibly confusing, and in all honesty could anybody here paint an instant mental picture of the different C models in their heads? With BMW, the numerical system just seems logical, even forgetting the engine size problem. Or give the cars names, which is another way to make them stand out.

[Dirty Sanchez]

Sovbious - C = Cock

[Richard.John]

Isn't that A for Au....

Now that TG has declared Beemers to be of the non cock variety.

[Chief H]

Oh aye, I'm a big fan of the BMW numbering - fits in nicely with male logic. And I like how each series has its own particular character; once you know them you know what you're getting from each series, as well as the more obvious size denominations through numerical ordering. Picked up a new 525d M Sport last week and it is absolutely succulent to drive and looks the part too, i really like the chunky, brute styling of the M Sport; it's aged pretty well for an older fellow, really

[Richard.John]

The 5 is wonderful! I had a quick go in an estate version and it was sublime. Expensive but you get what you pay for with the Germans.

[VR46]

"Barn find" Bugatti went for £3m, a fair bit less than expected.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/europe/7876741.stm

[Richard.John]

Got my RX-8 back from the repair shop today. Oh how you forget, in one short week of driving a city car, just how different RWD sports cars can be. The steering feels sooo heavy, as does the clutch and gearbox, and the lower seating position seems oddly weird now. The engine makes a nice sound too, but the new car smell has been replaced with the new paint variety :-( It will fade in time though.

[Alastair]

This is a great idea, wish I'd thought of it.

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=160313516471

[Shez]

Someone is going to be disappointed

[vanpeebles]

OK, just to get some further ideas incase I've missed anything. After car ideas, looking to spend around 4k, mileage under 50k and around 2004

Oh and 0 to 60 to be on the good side of 10 seconds.

[12-51-00]

This is a great idea, wish I'd thought of it.

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.d...m=160313516471

Doesn't the seller's feedback saying he/she recently bought parts for a Ford Granada/Scorpio give it away somewhat though?

[Alastair]

Doesn't the seller's feedback saying he/she recently bought parts for a Ford Granada/Scorpio give it away somewhat though?

And bought parts for a Sierra Cosworth 4x4!

[Shez]

4x4 aren't 1800cc - It'll be a pile of ****.