Omega Owners Forum

Chat Area => General Car Chat => Topic started by: STEMO on 01 October 2016, 10:44:14

Title: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: STEMO on 01 October 2016, 10:44:14
I'm taking it for MOT and service next weekend, the I may sell it to WBAC or trade it. I have seen the car that I am after. After being practical for so long, I am ready to bust out. At half the mpg I get now and £500+ road tax, the one I'm looking at will be expensive to run but what the hell?
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: tunnie on 01 October 2016, 11:07:26
Will it be snot green?

Go for it  :y
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Field Marshal Dr. Opti on 01 October 2016, 12:01:54
I'm taking it for MOT and service next weekend, the I may sell it to WBAC or trade it. I have seen the car that I am after. After being practical for so long, I am ready to bust out. At half the mpg I get now and £500+ road tax, the one I'm looking at will be expensive to run but what the hell?

What's not to like. :y

Pragmatism can be so dull.
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Field Marshal Dr. Opti on 01 October 2016, 12:04:15
....of course you may just be taking the piss. :)

Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Field Marshal Dr. Opti on 01 October 2016, 12:22:51
Assuming that you're not taking the piss......wotyathinkinofbuyin? ;)
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: STEMO on 01 October 2016, 12:48:40
Assuming that you're not taking the piss......wotyathinkinofbuyin? ;)
A big Datsun.
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: biggriffin on 01 October 2016, 12:49:50
Gtr skyline
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: STEMO on 01 October 2016, 12:50:45
Gtr
Now you're just being silly. There's nothing big about a gtr, except the engine.
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: biggriffin on 01 October 2016, 12:55:00
Nissimo quasgi
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Field Marshal Dr. Opti on 01 October 2016, 12:58:44
Assuming that you're not taking the piss......wotyathinkinofbuyin? ;)
A big Datsun.

Datsun Cash  Cow.
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: biggriffin on 01 October 2016, 12:59:35
Think if you offered nitro enough you could buy his snot green vxr8
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Field Marshal Dr. Opti on 01 October 2016, 13:00:16
Gtr skyline

The accelerative G force would finish the old boy off.
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: henryd on 01 October 2016, 13:01:21
Gtr
Now you're just being silly. There's nothing big about a gtr, except the engine.

Infiniti  ::)
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Field Marshal Dr. Opti on 01 October 2016, 13:02:56
Gtr
Now you're just being silly. There's nothing big about a gtr, except the engine.

Infiniti  ::)

Could be, Henry.

M35 hybrid or M37.
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Field Marshal Dr. Opti on 01 October 2016, 13:04:43
Or G37......I looked at all of these.
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: STEMO on 01 October 2016, 13:19:53
Let's narrow this down so you can't miss: 3.5lt, 234bhp.......and the giveaway, 4 wheel drive.
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: STEMO on 01 October 2016, 13:22:48
They are a lot of car for the money, but c.17-18 around town.  :o
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Field Marshal Dr. Opti on 01 October 2016, 13:22:54
That is the 'Chelsea Tractor' jobbie.
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Field Marshal Dr. Opti on 01 October 2016, 13:25:56
QX50?
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: STEMO on 01 October 2016, 14:17:01
Good grief, I thought you knew your cars ;D
Off the wall choice.
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: STEMO on 01 October 2016, 14:25:47
These are a lot of car for little money. Cheap to buy, expensive to run.....should buy an omega, really.  :)

Link not working. Try Murano, auto, petrol, 3.5
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Doctor Gollum on 01 October 2016, 14:37:50
These are a lot of car for little money. Cheap to buy, expensive to run.....should buy an omega, really.  :)

Link not working. Try Murano, auto, petrol, 3.5
As you say, left field, but a rare choice 8)
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Field Marshal Dr. Opti on 01 October 2016, 15:19:36
These are a lot of car for little money. Cheap to buy, expensive to run.....should buy an omega, really.  :)

Link not working. Try Murano, auto, petrol, 3.5

That is more or less what I said. :)

Bit exciting for you though. :)
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: STEMO on 01 October 2016, 15:35:40
These are a lot of car for little money. Cheap to buy, expensive to run.....should buy an omega, really.  :)

Link not working. Try Murano, auto, petrol, 3.5

That is more or less what I said. :)

Bit exciting for you though. :)
Not really. While I have been a member on here, I've had some unusual cars. Saab 2.0 turbo, Honda legend 3.2, Alfa 166 3.2. Oh yes, and two of those omega thingies.
Of course, I then had a meriva, zafira and astra.  :(
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Field Marshal Dr. Opti on 01 October 2016, 15:50:05
These are a lot of car for little money. Cheap to buy, expensive to run.....should buy an omega, really.  :)

Link not working. Try Murano, auto, petrol, 3.5

That is more or less what I said. :)

Bit exciting for you though. :)
Not really. While I have been a member on here, I've had some unusual cars. Saab 2.0 turbo, Honda legend 3.2, Alfa 166 3.2. Oh yes, and two of those omega thingies.
Of course, I then had a meriva, zafira and astra.  :(

....don't forget the Daewoo. :)
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Field Marshal Dr. Opti on 01 October 2016, 15:51:23
These are a lot of car for little money. Cheap to buy, expensive to run.....should buy an omega, really.  :)

Link not working. Try Murano, auto, petrol, 3.5

That is more or less what I said. :)

Bit exciting for you though. :)
Not really. While I have been a member on here, I've had some unusual cars. Saab 2.0 turbo, Honda legend 3.2, Alfa 166 3.2. Oh yes, and two of those omega thingies.
Of course, I then had a meriva, zafira and astra.  :(

This I like.....and being an Alfa would have proved faultlessly reliable.
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: STEMO on 01 October 2016, 15:52:00
These are a lot of car for little money. Cheap to buy, expensive to run.....should buy an omega, really.  :)

Link not working. Try Murano, auto, petrol, 3.5

That is more or less what I said. :)

Bit exciting for you though. :)
Not really. While I have been a member on here, I've had some unusual cars. Saab 2.0 turbo, Honda legend 3.2, Alfa 166 3.2. Oh yes, and two of those omega thingies.
Of course, I then had a meriva, zafira and astra.  :(

....don't forget the Daewoo. :)
Just a glorified zafira.
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: STEMO on 01 October 2016, 15:54:01
These are a lot of car for little money. Cheap to buy, expensive to run.....should buy an omega, really.  :)

Link not working. Try Murano, auto, petrol, 3.5

That is more or less what I said. :)

Bit exciting for you though. :)
Not really. While I have been a member on here, I've had some unusual cars. Saab 2.0 turbo, Honda legend 3.2, Alfa 166 3.2. Oh yes, and two of those omega thingies.
Of course, I then had a meriva, zafira and astra.  :(

This I like.....and being an Alfa would have proved faultlessly reliable.
Oh yes....it was a laugh a minute....if you find not having windscreen wipers, headlights pointing at the floor, oil leaking from the gearbox etc., funny.
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Field Marshal Dr. Opti on 01 October 2016, 16:01:24
These are a lot of car for little money. Cheap to buy, expensive to run.....should buy an omega, really.  :)

Link not working. Try Murano, auto, petrol, 3.5

That is more or less what I said. :)

Bit exciting for you though. :)
Not really. While I have been a member on here, I've had some unusual cars. Saab 2.0 turbo, Honda legend 3.2, Alfa 166 3.2. Oh yes, and two of those omega thingies.
Of course, I then had a meriva, zafira and astra.  :(

This I like.....and being an Alfa would have proved faultlessly reliable.
Oh yes....it was a laugh a minute....if you find not having windscreen wipers, headlights pointing at the floor, oil leaking from the gearbox etc., funny.

Italian brio and character. ;)
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Mr Gav on 01 October 2016, 18:12:59
These are a lot of car for little money. Cheap to buy, expensive to run.....should buy an omega, really.  :)

Link not working. Try Murano, auto, petrol, 3.5

Our QS at work has one and he rates it, very reliable, same engine as found in the 350z although in a lower state of tune  :y
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Field Marshal Dr. Opti on 01 October 2016, 19:03:45
The V6 lump found in both the Datsun 350Z/370Z or Infiniti sounds wonderful. :y
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: 2boxerdogs on 01 October 2016, 19:11:10
Followed a 370 Z along the A16 this afternoon had a stainless steel exhaust system, sounded wonderful .
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Nick W on 01 October 2016, 20:34:24

This I like.....and being an Alfa would have proved faultlessly reliable.
Oh yes....it was a laugh a minute....if you find not having windscreen wipers, headlights pointing at the floor, oil leaking from the gearbox etc., funny.

Italian brio and character. ;)


I've posted before on how to own an Alfa:


Buy a shiny one.
Have it delivered to your drive, and park it where you can admire it easily.
Polish it so it is really shiny.
Throw the keys away so you can't even pretend it's useful as a car.
When you wife tells insists that you decide whether she goes, or the car does, simply scrapping the car will be much more cost effective than a divorce.
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: 2boxerdogs on 01 October 2016, 20:45:06
Alfa's without doubt are good looking cars but that's about it.
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Mr.OmegaMan on 01 October 2016, 20:48:32
A unusual choice indeed, Never seen one or haven't noticed them.

CVT Transmission sound weird, I don't like them personally.
http://youtu.be/PCVw4ExwlQw
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: tunnie on 01 October 2016, 21:20:48
If it's same CVT setup in Audi's - They are not reliable.
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: STEMO on 01 October 2016, 22:00:58
If it's same CVT setup in Audi's - They are not reliable.
Why would it be the same as Audi's?
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Doctor Gollum on 01 October 2016, 22:24:00
If it's same CVT setup in Audi's - They are not reliable.
Why would it be the same as Audi's?
Not the sharpest tool...
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: tunnie on 01 October 2016, 22:45:23
If it's same CVT setup in Audi's - They are not reliable.
Why would it be the same as Audi's?

It's the style of box, I looked at some Audi's which had CVT box. Even Audis own forums said they must be regularly serviced to be reliable.

http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=76900 (http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=76900)
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Field Marshal Dr. Opti on 02 October 2016, 11:50:10
A unusual choice indeed, Never seen one or haven't noticed them.

CVT Transmission sound weird, I don't like them personally.
http://youtu.be/PCVw4ExwlQw

That is weird.The rev counter stops but the speedo keeps going without changing gear.

Zero to 60 in 8 seconds is pretty good for such a heavy car with a detuned engine.
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: henryd on 02 October 2016, 11:52:40
A unusual choice indeed, Never seen one or haven't noticed them.

CVT Transmission sound weird, I don't like them personally.
http://youtu.be/PCVw4ExwlQw

That is weird.The rev counter stops but the speedo keeps going without changing gear.

Zero to 60 in 8 seconds is pretty good for such a heavy car with a detuned engine.

Engine revs to peak output level then gearbox plays catch up,in normal driving its not so pronounced though :y
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Field Marshal Dr. Opti on 02 October 2016, 11:54:43
Has the old boy actually bought it?.......or is still undecided?
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: TheBoy on 02 October 2016, 11:56:18
Fiestas from 25yrs ago had CVT transmission.  An unusual sensation, but gets the job done.
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: STEMO on 02 October 2016, 11:56:25
Has the old boy actually bought it?.......or is still undecided?
Do you actually read posts? i.e., the first one.
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Field Marshal Dr. Opti on 02 October 2016, 12:00:20
Has the old boy actually bought it?.......or is still undecided?
Do you actually read posts? i.e., the first one.

I try not to......anyway your first post was yonks ago. :P :P :P
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Field Marshal Dr. Opti on 02 October 2016, 12:04:09
Fiestas from 25yrs ago had CVT transmission.  An unusual sensation, but gets the job done.

Is CVT the same as that used in Daf cars many years ago?

I believe it was called 'variomatic' way back then.
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: henryd on 02 October 2016, 18:15:55
Fiestas from 25yrs ago had CVT transmission.  An unusual sensation, but gets the job done.

Is CVT the same as that used in Daf cars many years ago?

I believe it was called 'variomatic' way back then.

They used belts and rollers but yes,similar thing :y
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: pscocoa on 08 October 2016, 00:12:02
Steve - you get bored with your cars very quickly. I am just back from Africa where spent time with a Toyota Land Cruiser -  just the ticket for those northern england villages.

How many millions of Toyota Corollas must be out there. Like fkies.
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Field Marshal Dr. Opti on 08 October 2016, 11:40:05
Steve - you get bored with your cars very quickly. I am just back from Africa where spent time with a Toyota Land Cruiser -  just the ticket for those northern england villages.

How many millions of Toyota Corollas must be out there. Like fkies.

Still waiting for pictures of the new Datsun. :-\
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: STEMO on 08 October 2016, 11:41:55
Steve - you get bored with your cars very quickly. I am just back from Africa where spent time with a Toyota Land Cruiser -  just the ticket for those northern england villages.

How many millions of Toyota Corollas must be out there. Like fkies.

Still waiting for pictures of the new Datsun. :-\
The Astra is in for MOT and service right now. I told them I'd pick it up at around 4.
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Field Marshal Dr. Opti on 08 October 2016, 11:44:49
Steve - you get bored with your cars very quickly. I am just back from Africa where spent time with a Toyota Land Cruiser -  just the ticket for those northern england villages.

How many millions of Toyota Corollas must be out there. Like fkies.

Still waiting for pictures of the new Datsun. :-\
The Astra is in for MOT and service right now. I told them I'd pick it up at around 4.



'It' being the lurid green Astra or the swanky new Datsun Chelsea tractor?
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: STEMO on 08 October 2016, 16:39:39
Mot passed with no advisories. However they managed to destroy the coil pack whilst changing the spark plugs (not their fault, of course) so that put an extra £95 on top of the charge for the service.
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: omegod on 08 October 2016, 16:51:31
Mot passed with no advisories. However they managed to destroy the coil pack whilst changing the spark plugs (not their fault, of course) so that put an extra £95 on top of the charge for the service.

I wouldn't have tolerated that Ste, drove in fine so it's their fault
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Field Marshal Dr. Opti on 08 October 2016, 17:31:19
Mot passed with no advisories. However they managed to destroy the coil pack whilst changing the spark plugs (not their fault, of course) so that put an extra £95 on top of the charge for the service.

I wouldn't have tolerated that Ste, drove in fine so it's their fault

Exactly.

They should replace it at their cost and say "sorry sir, our fault"
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: STEMO on 08 October 2016, 17:57:15
Mot passed with no advisories. However they managed to destroy the coil pack whilst changing the spark plugs (not their fault, of course) so that put an extra £95 on top of the charge for the service.

I wouldn't have tolerated that Ste, drove in fine so it's their fault
Can't be arsed these days, Jon. It was the first time I'd used them for anything else but tyres and tbh, when they gave me the bits back, the top of one of the plugs was a bit manky, so it may have cooked the rubber boot.
The place I usually use has seen sense and sacked the Saturday working, so I'll try and use him during the week in future. That requires additional effort though and, as I said, I can't be arsed these days.
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: STEMO on 08 October 2016, 18:04:11
Right.....with regards to the big (read massive) Datsun. I'm afraid it just wouldn't be practical for my everyday use. When I sat in it, it really felt like a boat after my astra. It made a lovely noise and certainly got down the road for a house on wheels.
I sneaked a look at the computer.....16mpg but, of course, people had been test driving it and I doubt it ever got up to temperature over the last months.
It was....ermmm....good at doing what it is meant to do,(terrifying the life out of anything you came up behind) but not at doing what I need a car to do. I'm afraid the car that suits my needs is the car I've got, just should've got a turbo or a 1.6. instead of the weak 1.4.
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Field Marshal Dr. Opti on 08 October 2016, 18:13:40
Right.....with regards to the big (read massive) Datsun. I'm afraid it just wouldn't be practical for my everyday use. When I sat in it, it really felt like a boat after my astra. It made a lovely noise and certainly got down the road for a house on wheels.
I sneaked a look at the computer.....16mpg but, of course, people had been test driving it and I doubt it ever got up to temperature over the last months.
It was....ermmm....good at doing what it is meant to do,(terrifying the life out of anything you came up behind) but not at doing what I need a car to do. I'm afraid the car that suits my needs is the car I've got, just should've got a turbo or a 1.6. instead of the weak 1.4.

An Omega is probably smaller than the Datsun. Any chance you might return to the fold?

Go on.....you know you want to. :)

.....how much were they asking for the Murano?
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Mr Gav on 08 October 2016, 20:18:22
opps it get a 370z you know you want to  :y
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Field Marshal Dr. Opti on 09 October 2016, 12:34:27
opps it get a 370z you know you want to  :y

Good choice, but I doubt the old boy could bend low enough to get in. :-X :)

He is probably better suited to an elderly Wolseley 18/85 or All-aggro Vanden Plas. Something nice and sedate. :)
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: tunnie on 09 October 2016, 14:34:08
Only live once Steve. If you have the urge, scratch it  :)
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Field Marshal Dr. Opti on 09 October 2016, 16:19:10
Only live once Steve. If you have the urge, scratch it  :)

Yes, I agree. You're a long time dead, as they say. :y
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: tunnie on 09 October 2016, 17:01:48
Only live once Steve. If you have the urge, scratch it  :)

Yes, I agree. You're a long time dead, as they say. :y

Jag XJ-R
Audi A8
BMW 7
VW Phaeton

I want one of these at some point, but my requirements at the moment mean these are not practical. But one day  :y
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Field Marshal Dr. Opti on 09 October 2016, 17:28:30
Only live once Steve. If you have the urge, scratch it  :)

Yes, I agree. You're a long time dead, as they say. :y

Jag XJ-R
Audi A8
BMW 7
VW Phaeton

I want one of these at some point, but my requirements at the moment mean these are not practical. But one day  :y

Is this the one than runs on lorry fuel?.....as opposed to the XJR.
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: tunnie on 09 October 2016, 18:13:21
Only live once Steve. If you have the urge, scratch it  :)

Yes, I agree. You're a long time dead, as they say. :y

Jag XJ-R
Audi A8
BMW 7
VW Phaeton

I want one of these at some point, but my requirements at the moment mean these are not practical. But one day  :y

Is this the one than runs on lorry fuel?.....as opposed to the XJR.

R = No lorry fuel, Petrol and a Supercharger.  :)

Sadly one of those won't do 60 to the gallon on my run to work  ;D ;D
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Field Marshal Dr. Opti on 09 October 2016, 18:15:17
Only live once Steve. If you have the urge, scratch it  :)

Yes, I agree. You're a long time dead, as they say. :y

Jag XJ-R
Audi A8
BMW 7
VW Phaeton

I want one of these at some point, but my requirements at the moment mean these are not practical. But one day  :y

Is this the one than runs on lorry fuel?.....as opposed to the XJR.

R = No lorry fuel, Petrol and a Supercharger.  :)

Sadly one of those won't do 60 to the gallon on my run to work  ;D ;D

I wouldn't know what 60 MPG felt like if it bit my arse. ;) ;D
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Doctor Gollum on 09 October 2016, 18:44:56
It's like running a diesel Yaris for free, replacing it with a new one every two years and having change enough to eat out once a week :D
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Doctor Gollum on 09 October 2016, 18:46:54
Only live once Steve. If you have the urge, scratch it  :)

Yes, I agree. You're a long time dead, as they say. :y

Jag XJ-R
Audi A8
BMW 7
VW Phaeton

I want one of these at some point, but my requirements at the moment mean these are not practical. But one day  :y
Bro looked at the 7 Series to replace his company car, but budget would have meant older and higher mileage than he wanted... So bought the 335d instead :D
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Field Marshal Dr. Opti on 09 October 2016, 18:47:27
It's like running a diesel Yaris for free, replacing it with a new one every two years and having change enough to eat out once a week :D

I'd need paying to endure such torture. :)
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Shackeng on 09 October 2016, 18:56:01
It's like running a diesel Yaris for free, replacing it with a new one every two years and having change enough to eat out once a week :D

I'd need paying to endure such torture. :)

Do you not fancy a diesel car then Dr? My TD has done superb service for 17 years. :y
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Doctor Gollum on 09 October 2016, 19:02:52
I suspect the issue is the Yaris part as much as the fuel choice...
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Field Marshal Dr. Opti on 09 October 2016, 19:03:01
It's like running a diesel Yaris for free, replacing it with a new one every two years and having change enough to eat out once a week :D

I'd need paying to endure such torture. :)

Do you not fancy a diesel car then Dr? My TD has done superb service for 17 years. :y

I can be tempted in most ways....but not this. :) ;)
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: STEMO on 09 October 2016, 19:15:11
TBH, I'm pissed off and disappointed at the prospect of having to keep an 'ordinary' car for daily use. I promised myself that, when I was 60, I'd get myself a luxury barge with a bit of poke to run around in. When that didn't happen, I moved it to 65. I'm 63 now and there's nothing out there that I can get excited about. Autotrader promises much but, in the flesh, I find most cars I look at to be nothing special.
A 1.4 astra is be laughed at by car enthusiasts, obviously. But when I put my sensible head on, it just ticks all the boxes. When I took it for it's MOT yesterday, I had done 13,500 miles since the last one. Imagine the money I'd have spent on fuel and maintenance on an 'old cruiser'.  :(

I saw a mondeo estate yesterday, one of the very newest shape. I thought it had the look of an Aston Martin side on, I was quite taken with it. But....if that's the extent of my ambitions, I might as well fickin wrap up. ;D
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Field Marshal Dr. Opti on 09 October 2016, 19:30:36
TBH, I'm pissed off and disappointed at the prospect of having to keep an 'ordinary' car for daily use. I promised myself that, when I was 60, I'd get myself a luxury barge with a bit of poke to run around in. When that didn't happen, I moved it to 65. I'm 63 now and there's nothing out there that I can get excited about. Autotrader promises much but, in the flesh, I find most cars I look at to be nothing special.
A 1.4 astra is be laughed at by car enthusiasts, obviously. But when I put my sensible head on, it just ticks all the boxes. When I took it for it's MOT yesterday, I had done 13,500 miles since the last one. Imagine the money I'd have spent on fuel and maintenance on an 'old cruiser'.  :(

I saw a mondeo estate yesterday, one of the very newest shape. I thought it had the look of an Aston Martin side on, I was quite taken with it. But....if that's the extent of my ambitions, I might as well fickin wrap up. ;D

It is extremely difficult to put practical, economical, and exciting in the same sentence. I think we'd all like a car  we turn and look at as we park it up for the night.

Compromise will be required. How big that compromise will be depends on you.

Unless of course you are fortunate enough to own a number of cars (like jay Leno) 

Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Field Marshal Dr. Opti on 09 October 2016, 19:32:02
TBH, I'm pissed off and disappointed at the prospect of having to keep an 'ordinary' car for daily use. I promised myself that, when I was 60, I'd get myself a luxury barge with a bit of poke to run around in. When that didn't happen, I moved it to 65. I'm 63 now and there's nothing out there that I can get excited about. Autotrader promises much but, in the flesh, I find most cars I look at to be nothing special.
A 1.4 astra is be laughed at by car enthusiasts, obviously. But when I put my sensible head on, it just ticks all the boxes. When I took it for it's MOT yesterday, I had done 13,500 miles since the last one. Imagine the money I'd have spent on fuel and maintenance on an 'old cruiser'. :(

I saw a mondeo estate yesterday, one of the very newest shape. I thought it had the look of an Aston Martin side on, I was quite taken with it. But....if that's the extent of my ambitions, I might as well fickin wrap up. ;D

This is what holds you back. ;)
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Field Marshal Dr. Opti on 09 October 2016, 19:37:26
TBH, I'm pissed off and disappointed at the prospect of having to keep an 'ordinary' car for daily use. I promised myself that, when I was 60, I'd get myself a luxury barge with a bit of poke to run around in. When that didn't happen, I moved it to 65. I'm 63 now and there's nothing out there that I can get excited about. Autotrader promises much but, in the flesh, I find most cars I look at to be nothing special.
A 1.4 astra is be laughed at by car enthusiasts, obviously. But when I put my sensible head on, it just ticks all the boxes. When I took it for it's MOT yesterday, I had done 13,500 miles since the last one. Imagine the money I'd have spent on fuel and maintenance on an 'old cruiser'.  :(

I saw a mondeo estate yesterday, one of the very newest shape. I thought it had the look of an Aston Martin side on, I was quite taken with it. But....if that's the extent of my ambitions, I might as well fickin wrap up. ;D

I don't think so.

I find your car to be pretty stylish*


*Dependent on choice of colour. :)
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Nick W on 09 October 2016, 19:53:21
TBH, I'm pissed off and disappointed at the prospect of having to keep an 'ordinary' car for daily use. I promised myself that, when I was 60, I'd get myself a luxury barge with a bit of poke to run around in. When that didn't happen, I moved it to 65. I'm 63 now and there's nothing out there that I can get excited about. Autotrader promises much but, in the flesh, I find most cars I look at to be nothing special.
A 1.4 astra is be laughed at by car enthusiasts, obviously. But when I put my sensible head on, it just ticks all the boxes. When I took it for it's MOT yesterday, I had done 13,500 miles since the last one. Imagine the money I'd have spent on fuel and maintenance on an 'old cruiser'.  :(



50 years ago they had the same reaction to an 1160HB Viva, which was the equivalent, or 1.0l Anglias. But they're sought after now. By definition, ordinary, every-day cars have always been ordinary at the time. Omegas were the equivalent in the large car class; just solid, decent value, useful tools.


A sensibly bought old cruiser might not have cost much in maintenance, although fuel would have been more, but beyond comfortable and reliable what do you really want from a car? My needs and wants have both changed drastically, and I find myself considering building a silly but usable toy(with some spare cash the Caterham 160 would be top of my list) and keeping the Omega because it is hard to replace. Impossible to replace for a similar amount of money.



Because of my circumstances this year, I expect my annual mileage to well under 5000 miles. I reckon that over the last 28 years, my annual private mileage is about 25,000!

Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: pscocoa on 09 October 2016, 22:12:10
Steve -  as you know I have the Phaeton (diesel) and an Astra (petrol). But it depends on your real needs ( vehicular that is!!). If I was not making regular motorway trips then there is no way I would have the Phaeton even though it is a real pleasure to drive. I actually like the Astra a lot for local use as does my young grandson who loves it. If you are not clocking miles up then let the head rule.
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: STEMO on 09 October 2016, 22:19:46
Steve -  as you know I have the Phaeton (diesel) and an Astra (petrol). But it depends on your real needs ( vehicular that is!!). If I was not making regular motorway trips then there is no way I would have the Phaeton even though it is a real pleasure to drive. I actually like the Astra a lot for local use as does my young grandson who loves it. If you are not clocking miles up then let the head rule.
Sound advice, Phil, but what about the little man inside my head, what should I tell him?  ;D
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: STEMO on 09 October 2016, 22:29:32
I had two E class 3.2's bookmarked. Just deleted them. Thanks, Phil.  :)
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Migv6 le Frog Fan on 10 October 2016, 06:34:09
My needs are a very economical car and a car I actually enjoy owning and driving. The Omega is the second one.
Having said that, it could be going up for sale soon as I have seen a car I would enjoy even more. Problem is its somewhere near Chester.
I suspect getting from here to there would involve a long day and several trains.  ::)
Theres also the fact that I have put a lot of money and time into the Omega in 5 months of ownership, and I will never get it back when I sell it. But then I knew that when I spent the money.
Anyway - we are on this earth but a short time, so imo, you should find something you really like and go for it. The enjoyment from owning and driving it should more than make up for the money it costs you.
They say our last regrets are usually about the things we didn't do rather than the things we did.  ;)
A bit philosophical for a Monday morning.  ;D
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: STEMO on 10 October 2016, 07:55:05
My needs are a very economical car and a car I actually enjoy owning and driving. The Omega is the second one.
Having said that, it could be going up for sale soon as I have seen a car I would enjoy even more. Problem is its somewhere near Chester.
I suspect getting from here to there would involve a long day and several trains.  ::)
Theres also the fact that I have put a lot of money and time into the Omega in 5 months of ownership, and I will never get it back when I sell it. But then I knew that when I spent the money.
Anyway - we are on this earth but a short time, so imo, you should find something you really like and go for it. The enjoyment from owning and driving it should more than make up for the money it costs you.
They say our last regrets are usually about the things we didn't do rather than the things we did.  ;)
A bit philosophical for a Monday morning.  ;D
Have you been reading books again, Paddy?  ;D
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Field Marshal Dr. Opti on 10 October 2016, 09:21:02
My needs are a very economical car and a car I actually enjoy owning and driving. The Omega is the second one.
Having said that, it could be going up for sale soon as I have seen a car I would enjoy even more. Problem is its somewhere near Chester.
I suspect getting from here to there would involve a long day and several trains.  ::)
Theres also the fact that I have put a lot of money and time into the Omega in 5 months of ownership, and I will never get it back when I sell it. But then I knew that when I spent the money.
Anyway - we are on this earth but a short time, so imo, you should find something you really like and go for it. The enjoyment from owning and driving it should more than make up for the money it costs you.
They say our last regrets are usually about the things we didn't do rather than the things we did.  ;)
A bit philosophical for a Monday morning.  ;D

Yes.....better to regret what you did rather than didn't do.

Now get that Italian supercar ordered. :y
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Field Marshal Dr. Opti on 10 October 2016, 09:22:27
Buy something that gives you a stiffy. :y
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Sir Tigger KC on 10 October 2016, 09:28:08
Buy something that gives you a stiffy. :y

Is that a Trump quote M'lewd?  ::)  ;D
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Field Marshal Dr. Opti on 10 October 2016, 09:34:30
Buy something that gives you a stiffy. :y

Is that a Trump quote M'lewd?  ::)  ;D

Don't like Trump but he does seem to 'understand' women. ::) ::) ;)

I imagine he gets more pussy than your average seventy year old ginger idiot.
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Field Marshal Dr. Opti on 10 October 2016, 09:34:48
Buy something that gives you a stiffy. :y

Is that a Trump quote M'lewd?  ::)  ;D

Don't like Trump but he does seem to 'understand' women. ::) ::) ;)

I imagine he gets more pussy than your average seventy year old ginger idiot.
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Migv6 le Frog Fan on 10 October 2016, 13:25:56
My needs are a very economical car and a car I actually enjoy owning and driving. The Omega is the second one.
Having said that, it could be going up for sale soon as I have seen a car I would enjoy even more. Problem is its somewhere near Chester.
I suspect getting from here to there would involve a long day and several trains.  ::)
Theres also the fact that I have put a lot of money and time into the Omega in 5 months of ownership, and I will never get it back when I sell it. But then I knew that when I spent the money.
Anyway - we are on this earth but a short time, so imo, you should find something you really like and go for it. The enjoyment from owning and driving it should more than make up for the money it costs you.
They say our last regrets are usually about the things we didn't do rather than the things we did.  ;)
A bit philosophical for a Monday morning.  ;D
Have you been reading books again, Paddy?  ;D

You offer a word of kind advice to a thieving scouse T wat and that's the thanks you get.  ;D
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Jimbob on 10 October 2016, 19:47:44
My needs are a very economical car and a car I actually enjoy owning and driving. The Omega is the second one.
Having said that, it could be going up for sale soon as I have seen a car I would enjoy even more. Problem is its somewhere near Chester.
I suspect getting from here to there would involve a long day and several trains.  ::)
Theres also the fact that I have put a lot of money and time into the Omega in 5 months of ownership, and I will never get it back when I sell it. But then I knew that when I spent the money.
Anyway - we are on this earth but a short time, so imo, you should find something you really like and go for it. The enjoyment from owning and driving it should more than make up for the money it costs you.
They say our last regrets are usually about the things we didn't do rather than the things we did.  ;)
A bit philosophical for a Monday morning.  ;D

What and Where?  Could be possible to take a quick look.....
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Migv6 le Frog Fan on 10 October 2016, 20:10:49
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/112158146740?_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

 :)
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Jimbob on 10 October 2016, 20:29:46
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/112158146740?_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

 :)

Look alright, can't work out where it is from the pictures
Title: Re: I think my astra will be going soon
Post by: Migv6 le Frog Fan on 10 October 2016, 22:08:33
Says near Chester, so I suppose that could cover quite a wide area ?  :-\.............never been anywhere near Chester so wouldn't have a clue.  :D