Omega Owners Forum
Chat Area => General Car Chat => Topic started by: LC0112G on 10 August 2021, 12:56:39
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Ok, I think I've take the decision to retire the Omega in the next few months. Too many faults to carry on patching it up, and from October not ULEZ compliant either. MOT is currently expired (can't get a test till 20th), and tax expires in November. So what is the OOF Borg collectives opinion on replacements?
My requirements are :
RWD - Auto or Manual, don't really care.
Petrol - Ideally 30-40 MPG.
4 door, preferably an estate.
Not Red, White or a Shiny Black.
Probably 2010-2015 vintage, up to £15K max.
Don't need anything with real performance - easy day to day use and occasional long distance continental trips.
No stupid body kits or 19/20 inch alloy rims - 17's are fine especially as I need to use snow tyres and/or chains occasionally.
Gramaphone or 8 track tape stereo entertainment system would be a big plus :-)
So basically a 2015 Vauxhall Omega B. First off I was thinking VXR8, but do I really want another expensive to run and maintain performance car? Then I was targeting an AudiA4 Avant, but then I realised Audi's are wrong wheel drive. Not interested in 4WD.
As far as I can see, I've boxed myself into looking for something like a BMW 320 Touring, or a Merc C200 Estate. Any other candidates? Have looked for Jag Estates, but they're either rare/non existent in the spec I want or outside my price range.
Cheers
Malcolm
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IN my opinion, 2010 vintage is too old to get the years from it before you are forced into a hybrid/EV.
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Left field choice.
Infiniti M series.
Omega size.
3.5 V6 plus hybrid system.
Reliable......good value.
Take a look. :y
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Kia Stinger.
I had a test drive in one and came away impressed.
3.3 litre V6 with around 370 BHP, so nippy enough.
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IN my opinion, 2010 vintage is too old to get the years from it before you are forced into a hybrid/EV.
The long term intention is to buy a nearly new V8/V12 in about 2029-30. So this only needs to last 8-10 years.
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Left field choice.
Infiniti M series.
Omega size.
3.5 V6 plus hybrid system.
Reliable......good value.
Take a look. :y
How many did they sell?
I bet annual sales were in the mid to high hundreds.
The real reason why the requirements are hard to met is the 'need' for RWD. There's a reason so few manufacturers produce them: most buyers couldn't care less which end the driving wheels go, or why one is better than the other. And RWD only makes packaging sense in a large car.
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150-200 BHP is plenty for this requirement. The 'estate' option is more important than performance. If you've ever driven anywhere 4-up and skis through the ski hatch on an Omega you'll know why.
I'll admit RWD is pure predjudice, having only owned RWD for over 30 years. However, IMHO FWD is effin dangerous in the snow/ice. Uphill is fine, downhill isn't. Uphill if you lose grip you just sit there spinning the wheels. With chains they're always on the driven wheels, and when you've got lots more grip on the front (of a FWD car) going down hill gets quite "exciting". RWD and chains on the rear you just pull on the hand brake, knock it into neutral, stay off the foot brake and you've a chance of going somewhere close to where you want to be. Of course, that relies on the car having a proper hand operated hand brake.
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150-200 BHP is plenty for this requirement. The 'estate' option is more important than performance. If you've ever driven anywhere 4-up and skis through the ski hatch on an Omega you'll know why.
I'll admit RWD is pure predjudice, having only owned RWD for over 30 years. However, IMHO FWD is effin dangerous in the snow/ice. Uphill is fine, downhill isn't. Uphill if you lose grip you just sit there spinning the wheels. With chains they're always on the driven wheels, and when you've got lots more grip on the front (of a FWD car) going down hill gets quite "exciting". RWD and chains on the rear you just pull on the hand brake, knock it into neutral, stay off the foot brake and you've a chance of going somewhere close to where you want to be. Of course, that relies on the car having a proper hand operated hand brake.
I'm with you on the estate.
But I can't agree with RWD and snow unless you get months of practice every year. First, driving in snow requires proper tyres. We don't get enough, or cold enough, snow to use studded tyres. Chains are are not good for long term use. Powerful RWD cars are the safest in snow, as they don't move. A small, low powered RWD on narrow tyres is OK with practice. Which leaves FWD - on the right tyres and keeping the speed down it's better for most people most of the time even in snow. Most of the snow crashes(sounds like a Neal Stephenson novel) I recovered were RWD beyond the driver's skill level. The FWD ones tended to have rear ended the vehicle in front.
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150-200 BHP is plenty for this requirement. The 'estate' option is more important than performance. If you've ever driven anywhere 4-up and skis through the ski hatch on an Omega you'll know why.
I'll admit RWD is pure predjudice, having only owned RWD for over 30 years. However, IMHO FWD is effin dangerous in the snow/ice. Uphill is fine, downhill isn't. Uphill if you lose grip you just sit there spinning the wheels. With chains they're always on the driven wheels, and when you've got lots more grip on the front (of a FWD car) going down hill gets quite "exciting". RWD and chains on the rear you just pull on the hand brake, knock it into neutral, stay off the foot brake and you've a chance of going somewhere close to where you want to be. Of course, that relies on the car having a proper hand operated hand brake.
I'm with you on the estate.
But I can't agree with RWD and snow unless you get months of practice every year. First, driving in snow requires proper tyres. We don't get enough, or cold enough, snow to use studded tyres. Chains are are not good for long term use. Powerful RWD cars are the safest in snow, as they don't move. A small, low powered RWD on narrow tyres is OK with practice. Which leaves FWD - on the right tyres and keeping the speed down it's better for most people most of the time even in snow. Most of the snow crashes(sounds like a Neal Stephenson novel) I recovered were RWD beyond the driver's skill level. The FWD ones tended to have rear ended the vehicle in front.
Not months a year, but often 3 or 4 times a year. I've got proper Winter tyres (infact they're still on the Omega at the moment) and two sets of chains. Never used the chains in the UK, but have had to use them in 3 of the last 5 trips to the Alps.
I've driven loads of FWD hire cars up to the resorts. As I say, up isn't usually the problem, down is. Going up, there isn't much to choose between FWD & RWD. FWD perhaps has better traction due to greater % of weight on the front axle, although when loaded up with a weeks worth of booze in the boot a RWD also has plenty of weight over the rear axle. Just put the chains on at the first sign of any slippage (traction control light winking).
Going downhill with chains on is a different story. It's very easy to lock the front wheels at which point you lose steering in a FWD car. Pulling the hand brake on has minimal effect in a FWD car since the chains are on the front, and the rear has relatively little grip. At best you'll slide/skid to a halt, at worst you'll spin or rear end whatever is in-front of you (arnco, next car). In a RWD car with chains (on the rear) there is little danger of the rear overtaking the front, so as long as you take it sensibly and slow, and stay off the footbrake you should maintain enough steering to maintain control (assuming you're on winter tyres).
On summers (99% of UK cars) on snow/ice - well best not to get into that situation in the first place FWD or RWD. My scariest moment was FWD, but I've had brown trouser moments RWD too.
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So, when you take your trips to the Alps, what is everyone else driving?
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So like all these Omega replacement threads where the OP is a fussy bastid ( :P ) and they've limited their options to an 'Omega like car' you've narrowed it down to a BMW 5 series or Mercedes E class with engine of choice IMO. If you don't mind a slightly smaller car then the BMW 3 series or Mercedes C class. :)
If you can let go of your RWD fixation then the Volvo V70 is excellent and for your ski trips then the AWD version or XC70 would be ideal. :y
Alternatively, we might know of someone who might be letting go of a nice sounding Subaru Forester in the near(ish?) future. ;)
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Alternatively, we might know of someone who might be letting go of a nice sounding Subaru Forester in the near(ish?) future. ;)
I didn't think was space to fit anything other than the stock and ghastly sounding boxer motors in those?
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Alternatively, we might know of someone who might be letting go of a nice sounding Subaru Forester in the near(ish?) future. ;)
I didn't think was space to fit anything other than the stock and ghastly sounding boxer motors in those?
I quite like the sound of the boxer engine. :y :P
But I'll rephrase it. A well looked after and extremely shiny Forester! :D
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So, when you take your trips to the Alps, what is everyone else driving?
If the weather is bad enough for it to matter - often nothing but snowploughs. We tend to arrive quite late (7pm onwards). The locals are charging around in small 4WD or FWD wrecks on skinny snow tyres (sometimes after one too many Genepi's - but that's another story). The few "foreigners" on the road at that time of night are usually in larger Beemers, Mercs, Volvos or SUV's - something comfortable enough to do the 600 miles from/to Calais/Belgium/NL/wherever carrying a good load of stuff. One of the advantages of self driving is you can take much more booze/food/clobber than you can if you're on a package holiday or flight.
this was the view out the window of our apartment on the first morning of our last trip (Dec 2019)
(https://i.ibb.co/SchXDhJ/IMG-6488a.jpg)
And this was the view of the kitchen table
(https://i.ibb.co/FHp1JNc/IMG-6490a.jpg)
Eventually the weather will clear up, and....
(https://i.ibb.co/vJQ1Zdj/PANO-20191215-125828-B.jpg)
Anyhow back on subject, the cars you see in trouble are almost always on summer tyres, and without snow chains, and often 4WD tanks like Range Rovers, BMW X5's etc. If the weather is bad, there are often rozzers at the bottom of the mountain stopping anyone going up the hill unless you've got winter tyres and/or snow chains on.
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So you need a big, 4WD SUV or a small wreck on skinny tyres. Just remember to get bladdered before you get behind the wheel :y
Sounds like fun ;D
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So like all these Omega replacement threads where the OP is a fussy bastid ( :P ) and they've limited their options to an 'Omega like car' you've narrowed it down to a BMW 5 series or Mercedes E class with engine of choice IMO. If you don't mind a slightly smaller car then the BMW 3 series or Mercedes C class. :)
Yup, I think that sums it up, and was the conclusion I came to. 5 Series/E class might be out of my price range though.
If you can let go of your RWD fixation then the Volvo V70 is excellent and for your ski trips then the AWD version or XC70 would be ideal. :y
From memory XC70 is statistically the second most likely to be written off or suffer major accident damage in the French Alps. BMW X5 is top. 4WD helps traction in slippy conditions, but does bu99er all for outright grip or stopping - especially when fitted with the rubber bands they laughingly call all season tyres.
Alternatively, we might know of someone who might be letting go of a nice sounding Subaru Forester in the near(ish?) future. ;)
My Sister and BiL had a battered old Forrester when they did a winter season in New Zealand. Not a bad choice, but not for me thanks.
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I dont think the 3 series or C class will be large enough for you Malc
5 series or E class. Unless you fancy Chris Kents CLS AMG which would be in your price bracket :y
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I would have thought a set of chains on an AWD like an XC70 would make it pretty capable? :-\
I know you specified petrol, but the BMW 3ltr straight 6 diesel is an excellent engine. I had an E39 530d Touring which pulled like train and sounded like one too! I loved it! :y
E39 a bit elderly now though, but you get the gist. :)
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I would have thought a set of chains on an AWD like an XC70 would make it pretty capable? :-\
Not certain, but I think I've read on the skiing forums that the XC70 isn't compatible with chains on standard rims and tyres. Not enough clearance to critical components like brake lines etc. It's a common issue with low profile wide rimmed FWD cars - too much gubbins behind the front wheels.
Anyway, it's rarely the car that's the problem, it's the nut behind the steering wheel who believes that 4WD or AWD makes them invincible in all conditions. Almost by definition tourists (like me) aren't used to driving in alpine conditions, and if you've got a false sense of invulnerability due to believing summer tyres on a 4WD is going to work, then it can rapidly turn to custard once the limits of driver talent are explored.
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I would have thought a set of chains on an AWD like an XC70 would make it pretty capable? :-\
Not certain, but I think I've read on the skiing forums that the XC70 isn't compatible with chains on standard rims and tyres. Not enough clearance to critical components like brake lines etc. It's a common issue with low profile wide rimmed FWD cars - too much gubbins behind the front wheels.
Anyway, it's rarely the car that's the problem, it's the nut behind the steering wheel who believes that 4WD or AWD makes them invincible in all conditions. Almost by definition tourists (like me) aren't used to driving in alpine conditions, and if you've got a false sense of invulnerability due to believing summer tyres on a 4WD is going to work, then it can rapidly turn to custard once the limits of driver talent are explored.
The biological interface is often the weak link! ;D
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I dont think the 3 series or C class will be large enough for you Malc. 5 series or E class.
I rented a 3 series estate about 10 years ago. I don't remember finding it a bit on the small side then. But you might well be right now the excesses of 10 years debauchery have expanded my boundaries. Next door has just bought a brand new 2021 320i estate, so I'll see if he'll let me sit in it - assuming the 3 series hasn't bloated in size like many cars have.
Unless you fancy Chris Kents CLS AMG which would be in your price bracket :y
Not really sure that's what I'm looking for. ::)
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E Class 4 MATIC or R Class.
Ultimately depends on budget. :y
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E Class 4 MATIC or R Class.
Ultimately depends on budget. :y
Fugly. :-X ;D
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E Class 4 MATIC or R Class.
Ultimately depends on budget. :y
Fugly. :-X ;D
how very dare you! ;D ;D I liked my R Class :y
... and Malc said not interested in 4WD
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E Class 4 MATIC or R Class.
Ultimately depends on budget. :y
Fugly. :-X ;D
how very dare you! ;D ;D I liked my R Class :y
... and Malc said not interested in 4WD
If it snowed on the R class, people would try to drive up it. ;D
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E Class 4 MATIC or R Class.
Ultimately depends on budget. :y
Fugly. :-X ;D
how very dare you! ;D ;D I liked my R Class :y
... and Malc said not interested in 4WD
If it snowed on the R class, people would try to drive up it. ;D
Or ski down it! ;D
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E Class 4 MATIC or R Class.
Ultimately depends on budget. :y
Fugly. :-X ;D
how very dare you! ;D ;D I liked my R Class :y
... and Malc said not interested in 4WD
If it snowed on the R class, people would try to drive up it. ;D
They're a definite rarity on the road.
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E Class 4 MATIC or R Class.
Ultimately depends on budget. :y
Fugly. :-X ;D
how very dare you! ;D ;D I liked my R Class :y
... and Malc said not interested in 4WD
There's enough cars available to tick the boxes, and going anywhere near mountains in winter awd and winter tyres is a pretty solid combination 8)
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So after several seconds of extensive research, I think I can rule out R class and anything 4-Matic.
Perhaps something like this?
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202107084777285
Or this?
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202107235364921
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Of those two, the E Class, without even blinking :y
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Skoda superb, 280 awd?
Not rwd, but also not fwd. Should meet all other criteria.
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Skoda superb, 280 awd?
Not rwd, but also not fwd. Should meet all other criteria.
Complete with direct injection that makes it sound broken :D
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https://mag.lexus.co.uk/history-of-the-lexus-is/
Some of these are very nice
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If you could stomach driving a black car, then there are nicer Beemers on Autotrader than the one you linked. ;)
Anyway, when you're driving it you can't see what colour it is, so might as well have a pink one! :P ;D
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Skoda superb, 280 awd?
Not rwd, but also not fwd. Should meet all other criteria.
AWD=4WD that doesn't work very well. There are precicely zero situations where 4WD/AWD would get me out of situations where snow chains aren't the correct solution (I'd already be on winter tyres). 4WD is about traction - acceleration on loose or slippery surfaces. It's nothing to do with absolute grip or braking which are the two most important things on snow (assuming all cars have decent ABS). And worse, whilst I haven't checked the Skoda specs many AWD cars are manufacturer excluded from using snow chains - either there isn't clearance behind the front wheels, or the difference in rolling diameter damages the transfer box. IMV, the belief that 4WD/AWD is 'better' on snow is simply wrong, unless you're hooning around the Finnish lakes like a loonatic in a rally car.
If FWD were an option - which it isn't - then yes I'd consider the Skoda above an equivalent Audi or VW - no point in paying for the badge if basically the same thing is available wearing a different body kit. Infact, the garage next door to work has a '15' Grey Skoda Estate for sale for £6K at the moment. Looks an Ok car (haven't looked very close though), but its FWD, so not what I'm after.
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If you could stomach driving a black car, then there are nicer Beemers on Autotrader than the one you linked. ;)
Anyway, when you're driving it you can't see what colour it is, so might as well have a pink one! :P ;D
I'd counter that how many Omegas are still on the road because they're Star Silver or Gay Gold, rather than one of the more 'unusual' colours.
It's not black I'm against - it's that shiny glossy black that looks dreadful if you don't keep the car clean. I've said it before - I keep my cars religiously clean. Easter and Christmas they get a bucket of water thrown over them.
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Lexus?
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Lexus?
They don't seem to do estates - or at least there are none on Autotrader excepting a few 2003/4's which aren't ULEZ. I don't want an SUV/MPV.
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This fella
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202108116096507
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This fella
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202108116096507
2.2d [163] Luxury 5dr Auto
That's....
2.2d [163] Luxury 5dr Auto
Close, but no cigar.
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In a different colour ;D
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Nowt wrong with derv, more grunt at lower revs and higher mpg. They'll take more stick too.
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I thought I had posted summat about AWD/4wd with winter tyres being pretty unstoppable.
Obviously being able to drive on snow/ice is more important than the drive train, but getting drive from all four wheels with appropriate tyres makes it alot easier :y
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Nowt wrong with derv, more grunt at lower revs and higher mpg. They'll take more stick too.
And readily freezes in alpine climates, forcing you to use special alpine diesel with additives. Even that freezes below -20 IIRC. Has happened to me once, and caused me to miss my flight home. Hire car was full on pickup from Lyon airport, so short of pouring fuel down the drain to re-fill with the alpine stuff there was little I could do. Bit of a pi55er at 4AM in a snowstorm half way up a mountain.
The more grunt at lower revs is because the majority of derv cars are turbo diesel. A petrol turbo car with similar cc's can have similar torque, and usually over a wider rev range. Just needs proper anti-knock control.
Plus everyone knows derv is the devils fuel, and only for lorryists.
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I thought I had posted summat about AWD/4wd with winter tyres being pretty unstoppable.
Obviously being able to drive on snow/ice is more important than the drive train, but getting drive from all four wheels with appropriate tyres makes it alot easier :y
Any car with winter tyres and snow chains is unstoppable. AWD/4WD makes it more start-off-able on summer tyres, which is usually shortly before the unstoppable bit becomes the problem. ::)
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Nowt wrong with derv, more grunt at lower revs and higher mpg. They'll take more stick too.
And readily freezes in alpine climates, forcing you to use special alpine diesel with additives. Even that freezes below -20 IIRC. Has happened to me once, and caused me to miss my flight home. Hire car was full on pickup from Lyon airport, so short of pouring fuel down the drain to re-fill with the alpine stuff there was little I could do. Bit of a pi55er at 4AM in a snowstorm half way up a mountain.
The more grunt at lower revs is because the majority of derv cars are turbo diesel. A petrol turbo car with similar cc's can have similar torque, and usually over a wider rev range. Just needs proper anti-knock control.
Plus everyone knows derv is the devils fuel, and only for lorryists.
Well.....your options are limited. Good luck :)
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Nowt wrong with derv, more grunt at lower revs and higher mpg. They'll take more stick too.
And readily freezes in alpine climates, forcing you to use special alpine diesel with additives. Even that freezes below -20 IIRC. Has happened to me once, and caused me to miss my flight home. Hire car was full on pickup from Lyon airport, so short of pouring fuel down the drain to re-fill with the alpine stuff there was little I could do. Bit of a pi55er at 4AM in a snowstorm half way up a mountain.
The more grunt at lower revs is because the majority of derv cars are turbo diesel. A petrol turbo car with similar cc's can have similar torque, and usually over a wider rev range. Just needs proper anti-knock control.
Plus everyone knows derv is the devils fuel, and only for lorryists.
I can't argue with that.
However, derv isn't suitable only for a lorry lump.
It can also be used in a bus.....canal boat.....cement mixer.....back up generator......tractor.....road sweeper.
It's just not suitable for cars. :)
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If looking for a direct Omega replacement, you're shit out of luck. There is *nothing* that meets your (and mine, for differing reasons) needs.
A compromise has to be made somewhere :(.
Given nobody has made an acceptable sub £150k RWD family lugger in the last 10 years, I suspect it's the RWD that will have to be compromised.
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https://www.gumtree.com/p/lexus/2011-lexus-s3-450h-3.5-se-i-5dr-cvt-auto-estate-petrol-electric-hybrid-automatic/1408031384
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Cracked it! :D (https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202108045823642?price-to=15000&include-delivery-option=on&radius=1500&body-type=Estate&advertising-location=at_cars&maximum-mileage=70000&sort=relevance&postcode=dt73nb&drivetrain=Rear%20Wheel%20Drive&onesearchad=New&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=Used&fuel-type=Petrol&price-from=10000&page=2)
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Good shout :y
Failing that just get the 5.7 8)
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Cracked it! :D (https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202108045823642?price-to=15000&include-delivery-option=on&radius=1500&body-type=Estate&advertising-location=at_cars&maximum-mileage=70000&sort=relevance&postcode=dt73nb&drivetrain=Rear%20Wheel%20Drive&onesearchad=New&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=Used&fuel-type=Petrol&price-from=10000&page=2)
That's failed 3 MOT's in 8000 miles ;D
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https://www.gumtree.com/p/lexus/2011-lexus-s3-450h-3.5-se-i-5dr-cvt-auto-estate-petrol-electric-hybrid-automatic/1408031384
You can call that an estate if you wish. To me it's an MPV.
Cracked it! :D (https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202108045823642?price-to=15000&include-delivery-option=on&radius=1500&body-type=Estate&advertising-location=at_cars&maximum-mileage=70000&sort=relevance&postcode=dt73nb&drivetrain=Rear%20Wheel%20Drive&onesearchad=New&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=Used&fuel-type=Petrol&price-from=10000&page=2)
I think they must be come contaminants in the water down there. It appears to be affecting your visual abilities, not to mention sense of taste. The colour, not to mention the shape.
Good shout :y
Failing that just get the 5.7 8)
My Australian Bil suggested a Holden Caprice (WM) 6.2 litre - rekcons I can import one for circa £17K. He's as mad as a wombat on speed, and I see the infection is spreading faster than CV19 ::)
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Nowt wrong with derv, more grunt at lower revs and higher mpg. They'll take more stick too.
And readily freezes in alpine climates, forcing you to use special alpine diesel with additives. Even that freezes below -20 IIRC. Has happened to me once, and caused me to miss my flight home. Hire car was full on pickup from Lyon airport, so short of pouring fuel down the drain to re-fill with the alpine stuff there was little I could do. Bit of a pi55er at 4AM in a snowstorm half way up a mountain.
The more grunt at lower revs is because the majority of derv cars are turbo diesel. A petrol turbo car with similar cc's can have similar torque, and usually over a wider rev range. Just needs proper anti-knock control.
Plus everyone knows derv is the devils fuel, and only for lorryists.
I can't argue with that.
However, derv isn't suitable only for a lorry lump.
It can also be used in a bus.....canal boat.....cement mixer.....back up generator......tractor.....road sweeper.
It's just not suitable for cars. :)
Finally - someone saying something sensible. Oh Sh1t it's Lord Opti saying it. Either he's suddenly become sane, or I've gone nuts. :D
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Nowt wrong with derv, more grunt at lower revs and higher mpg. They'll take more stick too.
And readily freezes in alpine climates, forcing you to use special alpine diesel with additives. Even that freezes below -20 IIRC. Has happened to me once, and caused me to miss my flight home. Hire car was full on pickup from Lyon airport, so short of pouring fuel down the drain to re-fill with the alpine stuff there was little I could do. Bit of a pi55er at 4AM in a snowstorm half way up a mountain.
The more grunt at lower revs is because the majority of derv cars are turbo diesel. A petrol turbo car with similar cc's can have similar torque, and usually over a wider rev range. Just needs proper anti-knock control.
Plus everyone knows derv is the devils fuel, and only for lorryists.
I can't argue with that.
However, derv isn't suitable only for a lorry lump.
It can also be used in a bus.....canal boat.....cement mixer.....back up generator......tractor.....road sweeper.
It's just not suitable for cars. :)
Finally - someone saying something sensible. Oh Sh1t it's Lord Opti saying it. Either he's suddenly become sane, or I've gone nuts. :D
So he's saying it's suitable for cars? Sensible fella :y
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Oh...not suitable ;D
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https://www.gumtree.com/p/lexus/2011-lexus-s3-450h-3.5-se-i-5dr-cvt-auto-estate-petrol-electric-hybrid-automatic/1408031384
You can call that an estate if you wish. To me it's an MPV.
Cracked it! :D (https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202108045823642?price-to=15000&include-delivery-option=on&radius=1500&body-type=Estate&advertising-location=at_cars&maximum-mileage=70000&sort=relevance&postcode=dt73nb&drivetrain=Rear%20Wheel%20Drive&onesearchad=New&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=Used&fuel-type=Petrol&price-from=10000&page=2)
I think they must be come contaminants in the water down there. It appears to be affecting your visual abilities, not to mention sense of taste. The colour, not to mention the shape.
Good shout :y
Failing that just get the 5.7 8)
My Australian Bil suggested a Holden Caprice (WM) 6.2 litre - rekcons I can import one for circa £17K. He's as mad as a wombat on speed, and I see the infection is spreading faster than CV19 ::)
[/quote
&0llocks then, find your own crock of shit🤣
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Cracked it! :D (https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202108045823642?price-to=15000&include-delivery-option=on&radius=1500&body-type=Estate&advertising-location=at_cars&maximum-mileage=70000&sort=relevance&postcode=dt73nb&drivetrain=Rear%20Wheel%20Drive&onesearchad=New&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=Used&fuel-type=Petrol&price-from=10000&page=2)
That's failed 3 MOT's in 8000 miles ;D
Bah nothing serious and all due to lack of use! ::)
It needs a good run that's all. A trip to the Alps should do it. :y
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Cracked it! :D (https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202108045823642?price-to=15000&include-delivery-option=on&radius=1500&body-type=Estate&advertising-location=at_cars&maximum-mileage=70000&sort=relevance&postcode=dt73nb&drivetrain=Rear%20Wheel%20Drive&onesearchad=New&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=Used&fuel-type=Petrol&price-from=10000&page=2)
That's failed 3 MOT's in 8000 miles ;D
Bah nothing serious and all due to lack of use! ::)
It needs a good run that's all. A trip to the Alps should do it. :y
Wheel bearing failure due to lack of use?
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Oh...not suitable ;D
Keep your reading glasses close to hand, old boy. :-* :-* :'(
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Cracked it! :D (https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202108045823642?price-to=15000&include-delivery-option=on&radius=1500&body-type=Estate&advertising-location=at_cars&maximum-mileage=70000&sort=relevance&postcode=dt73nb&drivetrain=Rear%20Wheel%20Drive&onesearchad=New&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=Used&fuel-type=Petrol&price-from=10000&page=2)
That's failed 3 MOT's in 8000 miles ;D
Bah nothing serious and all due to lack of use! ::)
It needs a good run that's all. A trip to the Alps should do it. :y
Wheel bearing failure due to lack of use?
It hadn't failed, just slight play that's all. Probably just needs nipping up a bit. :P
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Cracked it! :D (https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202108045823642?price-to=15000&include-delivery-option=on&radius=1500&body-type=Estate&advertising-location=at_cars&maximum-mileage=70000&sort=relevance&postcode=dt73nb&drivetrain=Rear%20Wheel%20Drive&onesearchad=New&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=Used&fuel-type=Petrol&price-from=10000&page=2)
That's failed 3 MOT's in 8000 miles ;D
Bah nothing serious and all due to lack of use! ::)
It needs a good run that's all. A trip to the Alps should do it. :y
Wheel bearing failure due to lack of use?
It hadn't failed, just slight play that's all. Probably just needs nipping up a bit. :P
Don't we all? ;D
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Cracked it! :D (https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202108045823642?price-to=15000&include-delivery-option=on&radius=1500&body-type=Estate&advertising-location=at_cars&maximum-mileage=70000&sort=relevance&postcode=dt73nb&drivetrain=Rear%20Wheel%20Drive&onesearchad=New&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=Used&fuel-type=Petrol&price-from=10000&page=2)
That's failed 3 MOT's in 8000 miles ;D
Bah nothing serious and all due to lack of use! ::)
It needs a good run that's all. A trip to the Alps should do it. :y
Wheel bearing failure due to lack of use?
It hadn't failed, just slight play that's all. Probably just needs nipping up a bit. :P
I've had an advisory on slight play on NSF wheel bearing on the Carlton for the past 2 MOT's. I'm using it at the moment coz I can't get an MOT on the Omega till 20th Aug (and I think it'll fail then too). The bearing finally properly let go last week. What a 'kin din. Thankfully, had a couple of used but good spares in the shed, so swapped them over on Monday afternoon, only to discover both front tyres down to the wire on the inside edge. Bone idleness has already cost me £200+ for two new tyres this week, so that kind of thing on a new/used car would be an issue to me if not sorted.
Not that there is a cat in hells chance of me buying that monstrosity anyway.
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Cracked it! :D (https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202108045823642?price-to=15000&include-delivery-option=on&radius=1500&body-type=Estate&advertising-location=at_cars&maximum-mileage=70000&sort=relevance&postcode=dt73nb&drivetrain=Rear%20Wheel%20Drive&onesearchad=New&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=Used&fuel-type=Petrol&price-from=10000&page=2)
That's failed 3 MOT's in 8000 miles ;D
Bah nothing serious and all due to lack of use! ::)
It needs a good run that's all. A trip to the Alps should do it. :y
Wheel bearing failure due to lack of use?
It hadn't failed, just slight play that's all. Probably just needs nipping up a bit. :P
I've had an advisory on slight play on NSF wheel bearing on the Carlton for the past 2 MOT's. I'm using it at the moment coz I can't get an MOT on the Omega till 20th Aug (and I think it'll fail then too). The bearing finally properly let go last week. What a 'kin din. Thankfully, had a couple of used but good spares in the shed, so swapped them over on Monday afternoon, only to discover both front tyres down to the wire on the inside edge. Bone idleness has already cost me £200+ for two new tyres this week, so that kind of thing on a new/used car would be an issue to me if not sorted.
Not that there is a cat in hells chance of me buying that monstrosity anyway.
Oh well.... I thought it ticked all your boxes Malc. :-\ ;D
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Hyundai genesis.
3.8v6 rwd, rare as rocking horse sh!t. Should be reliable I would imagine.
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Hyundai genesis.
3.8v6 rwd, rare as rocking horse sh!t. Should be reliable I would imagine.
Looks like a posh Sonata. ;) Though the latest Sonata looks quite nice.
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As opposed to the Proceed fastback that looks every bit like a really cheap and ropey Porsche Panamera clone done to 3/4 scale ;D
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As opposed to the Proceed fastback that looks every bit like a really cheap and ropey Porsche Panamera clone done to 3/4 scale ;D
Had to Google that, have to say I think it's better looking than the panamera
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Not from the angle I saw today... :D
Kind of a 5 door Variant coupé with LEDs all over it...
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Hyundai genesis.
3.8v6 rwd, rare as rocking horse sh!t. Should be reliable I would imagine.
Not as daft a suggestion as most. Only one on Autotrader, so choice would be an issue. I'm not keen on light colour interiors though. Everything I touch seem to get covered on oil/grease and at least with a dark interior you can sort of hide that. Also running it for 10 years might get expensive if the scrap yards aren't full of spare parts donors.
I still think a Merc E or C, or BMW 5 or 3 are the most likely candidates, but will consider it if one is for sale at the right price when I finally get round to pulling my finger out.
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Surely choice isn’t an issue it’s two, Take it or leave it😎😂
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That E Class you linked to, or this one...
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202107275521704
Newer and cheaper ;)
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That E Class you linked to, or this one...
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202107275521704
Newer and cheaper ;)
It's unlikely I'll be buying in the next month - my brain doesn't work that fast. Big decisions like spending more money than the cost of a tank of petrol need to be analysed in detail, pro's and con's considered, every detail checked, I's dotted and T's crossed. And then I start looking for suitable candidates.
So yes, the one I linked to was just the first one on Autotrader at the time, and the one you've linked to may better. Although yours does look a bit shiney black to me - not that I'm a racialist or nuffink. If it were silver/grey.... Other negatives are it's 20 fewer ponies, 10% more miles, and 100 miles further away to go fetch. Two grand cheaper though, and it looks like it may have smaller alloys on it which is a plus for me.
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They're 17"s and Avant-garde is a decent spec, same as my old one.
There was a white one on Ebay, facelift '61 250 petrol, manual (rare as the proverbial...) for about 3k, 2owners full history. Only catch was 200+k miles... First owner used it to commute to Italy, and the seller used it for Airport work.
Must have sold as I can't find it now :-\
Basically, you need to be ready to pounce if summat pops up, especially petrol ones.
E500s are relatively good value, but neet to be either pre 2006 or late 2008 to avoid the early M273 issues ;) if the eml is on and the chain rattles, run away.
I would still have a used E Class over a newer BMW though ;)
Also, the S500 might be a contender, but with the same caveat re the V8. 2009 seems to be a sweet spot. Post 2010 facelift cars get the 4.7 twin turbo which comes with the turbos in the V rather than on the outside. They make decent power but, as any Audi owner will tell you, are a maintenance nightmare.
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Take it from me, turbos in the vee are never a good idea. Just like a knee in the nuts ain’t too grand👍
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White (and red) is/are an absolute no-no, although for £3k I suppose I could afford a full glass & interior out re-spray. :)
I don't really want to go more than 10 years old, so 2010-11 really is about the limit. Haven't looked at where the model year breaks are on any of the candidate cars - I'm was just trying to discover what the basic manufacturer & model options are. Quite surprised there are so few options for a RWD family saloon/estate, but it is what it is.
Depending how the MOT on the Omega goes next week I think I've got 2-3 months to find something.
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Fix the Omega whatever it costs👍👍
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Have you still got the LC?
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Budget is obviously a factor. The E Class estate puts an old Volvo or Peugeot 504/5 estate to shame. The 5 series estate is only used by the police because BMW priced them below the V70 and they can carry more than the 3 series. Just.
Size wise the C Class estate is a match for the 5 series in terms of capacity. The 3 series is a fine small family estate, but makes a better sports saloon.
If you're feeling brave, the E63 is starting to become reasonable.
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Fix the Omega whatever it costs👍👍
Does that include restoring all the metal work?
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Yes and a reshell :D :D
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Have you still got the LC?
Yes. Hence I'm really looking for a 'runabout' not a 6L V8 sub 30MPG money pit.
Fix the Omega whatever it costs👍👍
Still wouldn't be ULEZ though. The Omega is nearly 300K miles, on it's second engine, second gearbox, second exhaust system. Tin worm has eaten the under wind screen area (noticed all crunchy when the last windscreen got replaced) and I don't like the look of the front chassis rails either. Current engine leaks oil (cam gaskets done 3 times twice with brand new VX cam covers). Aircon needs looking at due to disagreement with a Bambi. Heater Matrix blocked so tepid at best in cold weather. NCR2013 CD draw flap broken, and big rain water leak into the cabin somewhere resulting in a 2 inch deep pool of water in the NSR passenger footwell last winter - and it now whiffs of swamp. Rear bumper broken due to Dominoes Pizza moped running into it, and front bumper broken due to French transit van reversing into it (plus Bambi). Drivers door check strap mounting fractured out of the door. Bit of a clunk on steering lock, which I think is either the pitman arm or NSF wishbone bush and something rattly in the NSR suspension. MOT should find these last two I think. Starting to misfire again which could be oil in the plugs, or another coil pack on the way out (I think this one has lasted 5 years).
Now I accept most of the above is fixable, and I've even got many of the parts here to do it myself (heater matrix, wishbones, aircon stuff). But given it's my belief the engine needs a re-build to properly solve the oil leak, and the shell is going rusty in some difficult to repair places, and the ULEZ issue, I think it's probably time to call it quits.
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If your omega was a horse, they'd shoot it.
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If your omega was a horse, they'd shoot it.
Bangernomics.
I prefer to throw a few hundred quid at the devil I know once a year to get it through the MOT rather than spend a few (tens of !) thousand quid on a new (to me) car which will hopefully last 5-10 years, but could come with a whole load of other issues. I'd be less bothered if there was a big Vauxhall to switch to because I sort of know what goes wrong and how to fix them from the 25+ vears of Carlton/Omega ownership. However, jumping to another manufacturer means either learning a whole load of new skills and bodges, or trusting a local indy specialist.
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You must have really hated that car for it to need a second engine :o
Mine hit 280+k on it's original drivetrain (second clutch).
The gearbox I kinda understand because no one services them and then wonders why they stop working after 120-150k ::)
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You must have really hated that car for it to need a second engine :o
Mine hit 280+k on it's original drivetrain (second clutch).
The gearbox I kinda understand because no one services them and then wonders why they stop working after 120-150k ::)
First engine sucked up a load of silicone and old O rings which blocked the strainer and wrecked the bottom end. This was about 3 years into me owning it, and I hadn't done any engine work on it at that point (except cam belt), so it wasn't me that put the silicone and old seals in the sump. I had changed the GB fluid and filters soon after getting it, (and put a proper spin on filter connector on the engine ::)). If I'd known the V6 had such a pi55 poor pickup I'd have dropped the sump to check and clean it.
Gearbox is/was an auto, and failed 18 months ago ish after about 280K miles. Spoke to a few GB reconditioners who agreed it was likely to be the seals on the hydraulic solenoid which presses the clutch plates together. If the solenoid seals leak it doesn't apply enough pressure to the plates, which start to slip more than they should, and then wear out so you're looking at quite a big bill for parts and labour to repair. Loads of stuff on Youtube about it, and perhaps I could have done it myself, but cheaper to just replace with a known good gearbox was the consensus on here and with them.
I know the popular view on here is that cam cover leaks are due to blocked breathers, but I've never found mine to be blocked, and I think that's only a symptom now, not the real cause. IMHO the real cause on older engines is excessive blowby of the piston rings caused by bore, piston and ring wear. The crank case only really needs to 'breathe' blowby - where else is high pressure air coming from? My first 3 Omegas (I've had 4) never leaked - infact I wasn't even aware that cam cover leaks were an issue. But an old engine is going to have more blowby, and that air has to escape somehow. Plastic cam covers are going to flex more than metal ones, and the more blowby there is the more air needs to escape. YMMV.
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Holy shit fair play to you mate👍 And I know if you had been looking after it from the start it would be in far better shape. Just a thought but do you still have any pics of my Carlton at the Haynes? Furthermore, I know how meticulous you are…. I didn’t get to finish reading your rebuild on the ABS unfortunately please send me a link too. 😒 Have a look at the Evo estate, or maybe the Stagea at least worth looking at, 4wd but the 'dangle berries' type👍 Although I 100% agree 1 wheel drive or four wheel drive… it makes very little difference at all when you are travelling down hill. Topside is you will love it when you get to drive it back home👍 Cheers Rae.
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Holy shit fair play to you mate👍 And I know if you had been looking after it from the start it would be in far better shape. Just a thought but do you still have any pics of my Carlton at the Haynes? Furthermore, I know how meticulous you are…. I didn’t get to finish reading your rebuild on the ABS unfortunately please send me a link too. 😒 Have a look at the Evo estate, or maybe the Stagea at least worth looking at, 4wd but the 'dangle berries' type👍 Although I 100% agree 1 wheel drive or four wheel drive… it makes very little difference at all when you are travelling down hill. Topside is you will love it when you get to drive it back home👍 Cheers Rae.
I'm not convinced that if I'd had the car from day one it would be any better state now. It wouldn't have had some of it's faults, but would doubtless have had others.
ABS management took decisions that effectively lost the old web site/message board, and now its virtually impossible to retrieve old posts. Criminal in my view. 20+ years of info basically lost. I did whinge at the time, but to no avail.
I should have the photos I took at Haynes somewhere - I though I sent you a CD with them on? If you PM me your snail mail address I can send them again.
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Thanks Malcom, I’ll send it to you now👍
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Thanks Malcom, I’ll send it to you now👍
I said snail mail. ::)
I only shoot in RAW format, and each photo is typically 8-20MB. Even converted to JPG they're well over 1MB each. And there are probably close to 100 of them.
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What’s snail mail?😂
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Oh, my address 🤓 ok doing it now🤪
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Since the urgency level has increased to DEFCON3, I've been trawling the net. Then this jumped out at me
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202108256637416
Only 3 miles away, so went to look. SOLD. bu99eration. Everything else is 50+ miles away. Not sure why I didn't see it earlier - suspect it's because I'd set he filters to 2010+ and this was a 2009.
Might go to look at this in Brizzol : https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202108246598339 . However, drivers seat looks ripped, and the boot appears to have had a hard life too.
Failing that, a trip to the smoke next weekend (Yeovil are away at Boreham Wood) to look at :
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202103310832355
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202108186391529
Several more in that area too.
For an E class, this looks ok, but seems cheap?
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202109026931805
Or perhaps go green - I've no problems with hybrid if its used to increase the power of a proper ICE engine. Any known problems with the C350e ?
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202109137294610
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Since the urgency level has increased to DEFCON3, I've been trawling the net. Then this jumped out at me
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202108256637416
Only 3 miles away, so went to look. SOLD. bu99eration. Everything else is 50+ miles away. Not sure why I didn't see it earlier - suspect it's because I'd set he filters to 2010+ and this was a 2009.
Might go to look at this in Brizzol : https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202108246598339 . However, drivers seat looks ripped, and the boot appears to have had a hard life too.
Failing that, a trip to the smoke next weekend (Yeovil are away at Boreham Wood) to look at :
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202103310832355
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202108186391529
Several more in that area too.
For an E class, this looks ok, but seems cheap?
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202109026931805
Or perhaps go green - I've no problems with hybrid if its used to increase the power of a proper ICE engine. Any known problems with the C350e ?
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202109137294610
Have you considered a Mercedes? ::)
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Having owned a Merc of 2006 vintage I didn't find it superior (or even as good) as products from Ford.....Vauxhall...etc..etc.
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That E Class looks pretty tidy. Higher mileage and spec probably the reason for the price.
Significantly roomier than the C Class though, so compare the two before you commit :y
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Do all later Mercs have split leather on the drivers seats? ???
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Having owned a Merc of 2006 vintage I didn't find it superior (or even as good) as products from Ford.....Vauxhall...etc..etc.
We've been round this circle earlier in this thread. Must be RWD. Not FWD/4WD/AWD - RWD.
Do all later Mercs have split leather on the drivers seats? ???
I was more surprised to see that any of them had rear view mirrors. I'd always assumed they were (seldom taken up) optional extras.
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That E Class looks pretty tidy. Higher mileage and spec probably the reason for the price.
Significantly roomier than the C Class though, so compare the two before you commit :y
Yeah - I've convinced myself that the C class will be big enough for 99.9% of my uses. Might even be able to get a C36GET in the back should the need arise. The extra room in the E class may come in handy for the other 0.1% of the time, but I've done 5 up in a 1982 Cavalier 1.8SRi to northern Poland and back before so the C class has got to be better than that.
I'll probably take a look at the E class first, and then make a decision on whether I want to pay nearly double for a 2016 C350E, or stick with one of the cheaper 2009-2012 C180/200's. It's just a bit of a pain in the 'arris that there aren't any closer to the south west - they all seem to be in London or Birmingham.
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Do all later Mercs have split leather on the drivers seats? ???
Many of them are vinyl. Although Mercedes usually has a stupid name that makes it worth the money. If you're gullible enough to fall for marketing ::)
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Do all later Mercs have split leather on the drivers seats? ???
Many of them are vinyl. Although Mercedes usually has a stupid name that makes it worth the money. If you're gullible enough to fall for marketing ::)
Yes, environmentally friendly leather or some such tosh.
"No animals were harmed in the making of our seats. But they won't biodegrade for a thousand years"
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yes back in the '70's dad had a 280CE coupe that had "MB-Tex" seat coverings,to look at it was leather only it wasn't leather at all.
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The last Merc I sat in was a brand new C63 in the showroom.
The smell of glue was so overpowering I could have been sitting in a TVR. :o
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The last Merc I sat in was a brand new C63 in the showroom.
The smell of glue was so overpowering I could have been sitting in a TVR. :o
There are far fewer parts to fall off a TVR....
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But they will definitely fall off. ;D
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But they will definitely fall off. ;D
TVRs were designed and built in a shed in Blackpool. They're repairable.
Mercedes whole ethos is premium German engineering. That's not necessarily a bad thing, but somebody else paying the bills dramatically improves the experience.
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Do all later Mercs have split leather on the drivers seats? ???
Many of them are vinyl. Although Mercedes usually has a stupid name that makes it worth the money. If you're gullible enough to fall for marketing ::)
Whatever they have decided to call it, it still looks shit for a so called quality motor.
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Artico Leather is the faux/veggie leather.
MB Tex always was/still is decent, wear resistant vinyl :y
Real leather is also available. At a price.
If you have a modern Merc with cloth, it's either a truck/van or the first owner ordered a base model.
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Do all later Mercs have split leather on the drivers seats? ???
They do when the 'leather' is Artico .... it's what Merc call artificial leather - ie vinyl!
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Sounds like a " New Omega " would fit the bill perfectly ;) ;D https://www.omegaowners.com/forum/index.php?topic=148673.0
It's actually available if anyone is interested
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Sounds like a " New Omega " would fit the bill perfectly ;) ;D https://www.omegaowners.com/forum/index.php?topic=148673.0
It's actually available if anyone is interested
Or...A new Carlton... :D
https://www.drive24.co.uk/vehicle/details/60274282/ds
Manual RWD Estate in an acceptable colour, dark interior. And If I try hard enough I've probably got enough spares to up the power a bit :D.
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Sounds like a " New Omega " would fit the bill perfectly ;) ;D https://www.omegaowners.com/forum/index.php?topic=148673.0
It's actually available if anyone is interested
Or...A new Carlton... :D
https://www.drive24.co.uk/vehicle/details/60274282/ds
Manual RWD Estate in an acceptable colour, dark interior. And If I try hard enough I've probably got enough spares to up the power a bit :D.
A few more miles on that than the omega.
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Yeah, but 0-60 time is False ;D
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Yeah, but 0-60 time is False ;D
Maybe it just never gets there....
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Sounds like a " New Omega " would fit the bill perfectly ;) ;D https://www.omegaowners.com/forum/index.php?topic=148673.0
It's actually available if anyone is interested
Where's the for sale thread, Jon?