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Chat Area => General Discussion Area => Topic started by: kev2b4 on 19 December 2009, 19:06:15

Title: Snow driving
Post by: kev2b4 on 19 December 2009, 19:06:15
Can anybody under 30 yr old drive in the snow?
Got back to UK yesterday morning - no taxis- too much snow, then could not use company van (astra) as key in safe place , so forced to use Miggy -- pleasantly surprised how good it is in the snow -- who needs front wheel drive? - half predictable back end breaking traction to turn car into right direction then nudge it as appropriate - all good fun. - Kids these days don't seem to be able to drive in the white stuff -  why can't I go round corner at 40 mph like normal?)
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Brick Tamland on 19 December 2009, 19:10:37
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Can anybody under 30 yr old drive in the snow?
Got back to UK yesterday morning - no taxis- too much snow, then could not use company van (astra) as key in safe place , so forced to use Miggy -- pleasantly surprised how good it is in the snow -- who needs front wheel drive? - half predictable back end breaking traction to turn car into right direction then nudge it as appropriate - all good fun. - Kids these days don't seem to be able to drive in the white stuff -  why can't I go round corner at 40 mph like normal?)

I can ;)

A 2.0 mx5 can't unfortunately, snow completley imobilises it ;D The mig is a totaly different story 8-)
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Tony H on 19 December 2009, 19:14:57
I cant speak for other parts of the country but where I live snow on the roads is a pretty rare thing nowadays. So it's my belief that it's down to lack of practice and inexperience
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: kev2b4 on 19 December 2009, 19:15:33
long time ago up in newcastle used to go out in the snow to Tessdale etc. with shovel sack etc  in an old beetle - ( with a few lumps of concrete in the front- so steering wheel had some effect)- now grown up- well almost
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: kev2b4 on 19 December 2009, 19:17:57
quite agree , when moved down south 25 yrs ago , first bit of snow used to go down to an empty car park and practice at night - just to refresh one's memory , unfortunately could'nt drive last week in the snow - as don't have Iranian diriving licence
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Marie on 19 December 2009, 19:19:06
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Can anybody under 30 yr old drive in the snow?Got back to UK yesterday morning - no taxis- too much snow, then could not use company van (astra) as key in safe place , so forced to use Miggy -- pleasantly surprised how good it is in the snow -- who needs front wheel drive? - half predictable back end breaking traction to turn car into right direction then nudge it as appropriate - all good fun. - Kids these days don't seem to be able to drive in the white stuff -  why can't I go round corner at 40 mph like normal?)

yes i can i am snow and ice trained!!! thanks to the MOD  :) :) :) :) :)
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: sexydaz on 19 December 2009, 19:19:29
climbing in mine yesterday and theres a slight slope out of my estate and neighbours stood still in his renault lagpoona wheels spinning goin nowhere,the mig just cruised up it and when i got back home and turned into my cul de sac a brush on the gas and the back end swung out beautifully opposite lock and it just straightened and landed perfick in front of mi garage,bet it looked cool ;D :y
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: kev2b4 on 19 December 2009, 19:22:39
Maria - you must be one of the few exceptions- was talking to next door yesterday -he was trying to educate one of the kids that  spinning wheels to get thru 6" of packed snow before you move is not the way to go.
 Its a pleasant change to be able to log on - as had to use another pc the last 4 weeks
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: kev2b4 on 19 December 2009, 19:24:09
What about the garage door?
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: jereboam on 19 December 2009, 19:33:26
Just to set the record straight, I'm well over 30, and I'm absolutely useless at driving in the snow and ice.

Took me an hour to back out of the drive yesterday :(
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Turk on 19 December 2009, 19:33:47
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Quote
Can anybody under 30 yr old drive in the snow?
Got back to UK yesterday morning - no taxis- too much snow, then could not use company van (astra) as key in safe place , so forced to use Miggy -- pleasantly surprised how good it is in the snow -- who needs front wheel drive? - half predictable back end breaking traction to turn car into right direction then nudge it as appropriate - all good fun. - Kids these days don't seem to be able to drive in the white stuff -  why can't I go round corner at 40 mph like normal?)

I can ;)

A 2.0 mx5 can't unfortunately, snow completley imobilises it ;D The mig is a totaly different story 8-)
MX5's are tail happy wee beasties even in just damp conditions.
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Tony H on 19 December 2009, 19:35:06
One of the best laughs I ever had was a few years ago I used to have a 2.0 ltr Sierra (right wheel drive of course) I took it down to the beach after a couple of days of hard frost were an area of sheer Ice had formed on the beach. The area of ice was about the size of four football pitches, their was no one else around so had some fun with the hand brake, opposite lock steering, J turns etc until my fun was curtailed by the local plod in a panda car turning up and wagging his finger at me. :(
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: kev2b4 on 19 December 2009, 19:36:21
when walking home yesterday - saw a baby BMW - stuck in the snow on the flat - no weight on the back
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: STMO999 on 19 December 2009, 19:36:46
Front wheel drive is best in slippery conditions.
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: kev2b4 on 19 December 2009, 19:37:24
Guess mr Plod was jealous
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: kev2b4 on 19 December 2009, 19:38:18
agree front wheel drive tends to be better  when slippery - but rear wheel more fun/interesting
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: STMO999 on 19 December 2009, 19:39:57
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agree front wheel drive tends to be better  when slippery - but rear wheel more fun/interesting


I agree. It is more fun getting the back end out and so on. Unfortunately, if you get your back end out in the normal course of driving, you've swiped someone alongside you.
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Debs. on 19 December 2009, 19:48:07
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Just to set the record straight, I'm well over 30, and I'm absolutely useless at driving in the snow and ice.

Took me an hour to back out of the drive yesterday :(

Don`t feel too bad about knowing your limits.....
There`s been several inches of fresh snowfall on top of slick-ice here today; winter motoring is a deadly serious business here in the mountains....All too easy to get stuck, isolated or freeze to death on lonely back-country roads; even with snow tyres/chains, a shovel and various items of winter-safety equipment aboard.
TBH: I venture out only if necessary (particularly at night) and driving in such conditions always scares me! ;)
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Amigo on 19 December 2009, 19:48:44
I'm only 24 (have been for years) but turn the TC off in the snow & embrace the "playtime". Small amounts of the loud pedal are highly entertaining at low speeds.
    On a more serious note i & many others still manage to get our artics up & down our wee island so car drivers have no excuse.
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Amigo on 19 December 2009, 19:51:02
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agree front wheel drive tends to be better  when slippery - but rear wheel more fun/interesting


I agree. It is more fun getting the back end out and so on. Unfortunately, if you get your back end out in the normal course of driving, you've swiped someone alongside you.
You don't play drifties if somone else is alons side you anyway. :-?
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Andy B on 19 December 2009, 19:52:51
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.......
 i & many others still manage to get our artics up & down our wee island so car drivers have no excuse.

I'm sure that there could be a joke made about weight somewhere in that statement .........  ;D ;D ;D ;D ;) :y
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: STMO999 on 19 December 2009, 19:53:56
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Quote
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agree front wheel drive tends to be better  when slippery - but rear wheel more fun/interesting


I agree. It is more fun getting the back end out and so on. Unfortunately, if you get your back end out in the normal course of driving, you've swiped someone alongside you.
You don't play drifties if somone else is alons side you anyway. :-?


Most young drivers play 'drifties' unintentionally.
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: kev2b4 on 19 December 2009, 19:54:21
that's why i played today in the lanes on my own,, i wouldn't do things like that near anybody else, but usually have gas stove 2 weeks food sleeping bag etc, with me plus a bottle of port  ( for medicinal purposes)
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: webby23 on 19 December 2009, 19:54:40
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Just to set the record straight, I'm well over 30, and I'm absolutely useless at driving in the snow and ice.

Looks like you could do with a shave and haircut judging by that avatar mate..........!!!

 :D :D :D :y
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Brick Tamland on 19 December 2009, 20:14:27
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Front wheel drive is best in slippery conditions.

Last year the guy 2 doors down couldn't get his vectra up the 1.5" to his drive. Completley useless ::)
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Martin_1962 on 19 December 2009, 20:16:13
Riding a bike in snow is fun - better if a tractable one

At least the snow cusions your falls
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: STMO999 on 19 December 2009, 20:17:37
Quote
Quote
Front wheel drive is best in slippery conditions.

Last year the guy 2 doors down couldn't get his vectra up the 1.5" to his drive. Completley useless ::)


I've had two omegas and a beemer, both RWD, and both as sh!t in the wet/snow as any FWD. I've been driving for just on 40 years and the secret to driving in slippery conditions is- slow and careful, no matter which wheels are driven.
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: cem_devecioglu on 19 December 2009, 20:28:32
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Front wheel drive is best in slippery conditions.

and for snowy hills..
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: waspy on 19 December 2009, 20:28:42
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Front wheel drive is best in slippery conditions.


That depends; Ok you have the weight of the engine over the front of the driving wheels, but that's all you can have. With a correct wheel drive car you can add quite a lot of weight. I used to run SD1's years back & i used to load up the boot with Silo Bolts from work, 40 kilo a sack & i'd have ten in the wheel well, that coupled with self leveling suspension. I never had any problems at all :y :y :y :y
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: STMO999 on 19 December 2009, 20:31:07
Quote
Quote
Front wheel drive is best in slippery conditions.


That depends; Ok you have the weight of the engine over the front of the driving wheels, but that's all you can have. With a correct wheel drive car you can add quite a lot of weight. I used to run SD1's years back & i used to load up the boot with Silo Bolts from work, 40 kilo a sack & i'd have ten in the wheel well, that coupled with self leveling suspension. I never had any problems at all :y :y :y :y


Except fuel economy. :o
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Del Boy on 19 December 2009, 20:33:41
Personally I think WWD is a lot better in the snow  :y
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: cem_devecioglu on 19 December 2009, 20:33:47
and we forgot,

4wd is always the best ;D
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: sparten on 19 December 2009, 20:36:13
Quote
Quote
Quote
Front wheel drive is best in slippery conditions.


That depends; Ok you have the weight of the engine over the front of the driving wheels, but that's all you can have. With a correct wheel drive car you can add quite a lot of weight. I used to run SD1's years back & i used to load up the boot with Silo Bolts from work, 40 kilo a sack & i'd have ten in the wheel well, that coupled with self leveling suspension. I never had any problems at all :y :y :y :y


Except fuel economy. :o
thats what i was going to say ;D
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: albitz on 19 December 2009, 20:46:17
I came home from work yesterday morning just in time to see the young lad from next door trying to get his 306 up the gentle incline on our road.I normally go straight to bed when I get home but I spent 10 minutes watching him,flat out in 1st,wheels spinning like mad,wheel from lock to lock and the car slowly sliding from one side of the road to the other but making no forward progress at all.It was hilarious. ::) ;D
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: cem_devecioglu on 19 December 2009, 20:54:27
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I came home from work yesterday morning just in time to see the young lad from next door trying to get his 306 up the gentle incline on our road.I normally go straight to bed when I get home but I spent 10 minutes watching him,flat out in 1st,wheels spinning like mad,wheel from lock to lock and the car slowly sliding from one side of the road to the other but making no forward progress at all.It was hilarious. ::) ;D

not a driver..
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Ian_D on 19 December 2009, 21:11:29
Must admit I had a play lesson on the industrial est the other night at midnight. :y

I was surprised how easy the rear end of the Omega kicks out even at 5-10 mph. :o

However I was also surprised how controllable it was. Not to mention the amount of fun!

I was trying to find the balance, and eventually managed to hold it sideways on a straight somehow for about 60-70 meters (maybe doesn’t sound like far, but when I was doing around 10 or so mph it seemed like it  ;D!)

Today I had to take my sister to work as my dad managed to get his Astra stuck big pot hole which is at the side of our drive (Our drive is on a down hill slope too! So god knows how he managed it!). When I got back I had to tow him out as he was still sat there!

And this afternoon I’ve been all over York followed by a return trip about 15 mile up the road in the dark while it was snowing.

Oh and im 22! :P

But I do know what you mean about some people. The number of times I’ve anticipated other drivers not stopping at junctions in time causing me to either stop / avoid them was shocking too! :-? :-?
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Marie on 19 December 2009, 21:54:42
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Maria - you must be one of the few exceptions- was talking to next door yesterday -he was trying to educate one of the kids that  spinning wheels to get thru 6" of packed snow before you move is not the way to go.
 Its a pleasant change to be able to log on - as had to use another pc the last 4 weeks

its marie darlin!!!! :)

and i would have loved to have seen that. much to me trying i cant get my mig to spin. i did a few months back put bigger wheels on her.

it must be my excellent driving!!!! ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Marie on 19 December 2009, 21:58:07
Quote


The number of times I’ve anticipated other drivers not stopping at junctions in time causing me to either stop / avoid them was shocking too! :-? :-?

 this weather is all about anticipating the other drivers. people dont do it enough. since i have done my hgv licence i drive so different and you dont realise how inconsiderate and un educated other drivers are :D :D :D
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: waspy on 19 December 2009, 21:58:29
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Quote
Maria - you must be one of the few exceptions- was talking to next door yesterday -he was trying to educate one of the kids that  spinning wheels to get thru 6" of packed snow before you move is not the way to go.
 Its a pleasant change to be able to log on - as had to use another pc the last 4 weeks

its marie darlin!!!! :)

and i would have loved to have seen that. much to me trying i cant get my mig to spin. i did a few months back put bigger wheels on her.

it must be my excellent driving!!!! ;D ;D ;D


Marie. Could you please re-size your avatar. It's spoiling you text :(
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Marie on 19 December 2009, 21:59:50
yes i thought it was small. sorry guys ill do it now
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: jereboam on 19 December 2009, 22:07:30
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    On a more serious note i & many others still manage to get our artics up & down our wee island so car drivers have no excuse.

Errrrr, not all of you.  Took my son 7 hours to get from Ipswich to Colchester yesterday because of a "jackknifed lorry" at the Copdock Interchange.
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: jereboam on 19 December 2009, 22:15:57
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I've had two omegas and a beemer, both RWD, and both as sh!t in the wet/snow as any FWD. I've been driving for just on 40 years and the secret to driving in slippery conditions is- slow and careful, no matter which wheels are driven.

Absolutely! Most importantly, think what you're going to do next, wait if necessary, and don't force anyone else to use their brakes - heaven knows where they will fetch up. :)
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Mr Skrunts on 19 December 2009, 22:17:05
One of the biggest problems with FWD/RWD cars today is the performance tyyes, in all honesty with the deseign of they they best they were designed for was to clear water whislt raining, but to have the best performance in the dry with as good as possible perforance in the wet.

In the 70#s and 80's when we had major snow tyre design was of a blockier type tread pattern, which when it did snow I believe gave better grip in the snow than todays performance tyres.

I actualy bought spare rims for my car to put some mud and snow tyres on just so I could go out at night and in the early hours just so I could play and pretend I was 18 again.
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Del Boy on 19 December 2009, 22:17:33
Quote
and we forgot,

4wd is always the best ;D

Found out the Saab may be WWD but it also has passive rear wheel steering, which does make it a lot less under steery and that bit more fun in the snow, it's no miggy though  :(, feels really wierd if you sling it into a corner you can feel the back moving very odd. I had to try it ;D
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Entwood on 19 December 2009, 22:32:01
Has no one heard of snow chains in this country anymore ?? 

We've had no snow here in Wilts .. but as soon as the weather changed to even the possibility of snow the little box of chains went in the boot, and will probably stay there now for months. With luck I won't ned them .. but they are there .. with the torch and shovel .. just in case I do.

:)
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: waspy on 19 December 2009, 22:38:02
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Has no one heard of snow chains in this country anymore ??

Debs has some, but she lives in another country :D

They're something i've never used.
I think the problem is that some roads have a snow covering & other's don't. So it's a case put on, remove & so on :(
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Del Boy on 19 December 2009, 22:41:08
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Quote
Has no one heard of snow chains in this country anymore ??

Debs has some, but she lives in another country :D

They're something i've never used.
I think the problem is that some roads have a snow covering & other's don't. So it's a case put on, remove & so on :(

Exactly, My road still has ice on it as it's only driven on by about 15 cars at max on 15 mph quiet road but most other roads were clear at 7ish in the morning. With mainly the side streets being the ones affected  :y
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Tony H on 19 December 2009, 22:55:40
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Front wheel drive is best in slippery conditions.
Beg to differ there Steve with fwd if you loose traction you also loose steering unlike rwd you still can point the motor where you want to go
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Entwood on 19 December 2009, 22:57:12
They take about 2 minutes to put on .. and 30 secs to take off !!!

Last time I had to use them was just to get out off the estate ....  once on the main road it was into the bus stop, take them off and continue.

:)   I think 5 minutes is worth it ???
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: waspy on 19 December 2009, 23:00:18
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They take about 2 minutes to put on .. and 30 secs to take off !!!

Last time I had to use them was just to get out off the estate ....  once on the main road it was into the bus stop, take them off and continue.

:)   I think 5 minutes is worth it ???


Uhm i thought they'd take longer to fit/remove. Like i said, i've never used any, but that's a good time all the same :y
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Entwood on 19 December 2009, 23:03:08
This is how you fit them .. and seriously .. it takes longer to get them out of the box than it does to actually fit them !!

http://www.skidrive.co.uk/snow-chains/fit_guide.php
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: waspy on 19 December 2009, 23:06:49
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This is how you fit them .. and seriously .. it takes longer to get them out of the box than it does to actually fit them !!

http://www.skidrive.co.uk/snow-chains/fit_guide.php

 8-) 8-) I had visions of a tangled mess & having to lay them out, then driving into them, getting out & so on ;D
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: jerry on 19 December 2009, 23:52:38
well I have no qualms in admitting that I hate driving in the snow-especially in Norfolk where they never seem to grit when its most needed. My old Prelude being FWD was a vast improvement on the Sierra before it but the Migs RWD/auto combination makes life a bit difficult sometimes despite traction control and the "snowflake". Slow and steady and keep your distance is my motto! More than once over the past few days have I had someone crawling up my backside as were driving on fresh snow over ice and no gritting and at the first opportunity they overtake me as theyre convinced that 1) I'm one of those old gits who cant drive in the snow and am holding everyone else up 2)theyre far more competent drivers than me and 3)of course they can do 40 rather than my 20. Guess what-no sooner than they get past they loose it , fight to get it back and then settle down at 20. Oh, and they all seem to drive something called a BMW ;D.Like a lot of our European drivers comment, we're just not geared up for these conditions here with insufficient gritters and lack of experience/knowledge as drivers. In Poland its not uncommon for people to have several different sets of tyres for different weather conditions for example but mention snow chains or snow tyres here and people dont know what youre on about.
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Vamps on 20 December 2009, 00:21:25
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Quote
Quote
Front wheel drive is best in slippery conditions.

Last year the guy 2 doors down couldn't get his vectra up the 1.5" to his drive. Completley useless ::)


I've had two omegas and a beemer, both RWD, and both as sh!t in the wet/snow as any FWD. I've been driving for just on 40 years and the secret to driving in slippery conditions is- slow and careful, no matter which wheels are driven.[/quote]

That is the answer :y along with an awareness of whay other cars, around you are doing. :y
Been in some terrible stuff tonight with swmbo and Miss Vamps, had to pass rwd and fwd cars that simply could not make progress cos of too heavy right foot, oh and i was in my Citroen, fwd and you can 'drift' it  :-[
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Mr Skrunts on 20 December 2009, 00:44:19
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Quote
Quote
Quote
Front wheel drive is best in slippery conditions.

Last year the guy 2 doors down couldn't get his vectra up the 1.5" to his drive. Completley useless ::)


I've had two omegas and a beemer, both RWD, and both as sh!t in the wet/snow as any FWD. I've been driving for just on 40 years and the secret to driving in slippery conditions is- slow and careful, no matter which wheels are driven.[/quote]

That is the answer :y along with an awareness of whay other cars, around you are doing. :y
Been in some terrible stuff tonight with swmbo and Miss Vamps, had to pass rwd and fwd cars that simply could not make progress cos of too heavy right foot, oh and i was in my Citroen, fwd and you can 'drift' it  :-[


But you have age and experience on your side you old bugga.   :-X :y :y
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Vamps on 20 December 2009, 00:51:26
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Quote
Quote
Quote
Quote
Front wheel drive is best in slippery conditions.

Last year the guy 2 doors down couldn't get his vectra up the 1.5" to his drive. Completley useless ::)


I've had two omegas and a beemer, both RWD, and both as sh!t in the wet/snow as any FWD. I've been driving for just on 40 years and the secret to driving in slippery conditions is- slow and careful, no matter which wheels are driven.[/quote]

That is the answer :y along with an awareness of whay other cars, around you are doing. :y
Been in some terrible stuff tonight with swmbo and Miss Vamps, had to pass rwd and fwd cars that simply could not make progress cos of too heavy right foot, oh and i was in my Citroen, fwd and you can 'drift' it  :-[


But you have age and experience on your side you old bugga.   :-X :y :y

And sometimes, as you know, it comes in handy.... :P

Got home tonight could not get on by drive, kerb the Problem, and I reverse on so like a rwd car. Turned it round and drove on fwd, no problem :y

Anyway, I read you have been in hospital, for 3 weeks? hope you are OK, certainly nice to see you back.. :y
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Mr Skrunts on 20 December 2009, 00:54:02
Went in to check out the sexy nurses and liked what I saw, wanted to leave but they forced to stay and pampered me for a while. :-X
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Vamps on 20 December 2009, 00:58:50
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Went in to check out the sexy nurses and liked what I saw, wanted to leave but they forced to stay and pampered me for a while. :-X

At least they let you out........... :y
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Lazydocker on 20 December 2009, 02:03:04
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Quote
Quote
Front wheel drive is best in slippery conditions.

Last year the guy 2 doors down couldn't get his vectra up the 1.5" to his drive. Completley useless ::)


I've had two omegas and a beemer, both RWD, and both as sh!t in the wet/snow as any FWD. I've been driving for just on 40 years and the secret to driving in slippery conditions is- slow and careful, no matter which wheels are driven.

Not necessarily... Smooth, slower and controlled... RWD is, IMO better in snow as when you lose drive you can steer with the accelerator ;) ;) ;)
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Vamps on 20 December 2009, 02:44:43
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Quote
Quote
Quote
Front wheel drive is best in slippery conditions.

Last year the guy 2 doors down couldn't get his vectra up the 1.5" to his drive. Completley useless ::)


I've had two omegas and a beemer, both RWD, and both as sh!t in the wet/snow as any FWD. I've been driving for just on 40 years and the secret to driving in slippery conditions is- slow and careful, no matter which wheels are driven.

Not necessarily... Smooth, slower and controlled... RWD is, IMO better in snow as when you lose drive you can steer with the accelerator ;) ;) ;)

The Mini proved in the 1963 Monte Carlo Rally that FWD was best and nothing has since proved otherwise over 4x4..... :)
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Auto Addict on 20 December 2009, 07:14:33
It's quite easy to get used to driving on snow/ice with a bit of practice, and easy to get lulled into a false sense of security.

Just remember one thing:-

IF YOU BRAKE, WILL THE CAR STOP - PROBABLY NOT!
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: damage consultant on 20 December 2009, 08:00:15
Well this is the first time this year ive put the snow shoes on my miggy :y
great fun going past those front wheel drives that have spun out going up hills   [smiley=vrolijk_26.gif]
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: waspy on 20 December 2009, 08:42:39
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Quote
Quote
Quote
Quote
Front wheel drive is best in slippery conditions.

Last year the guy 2 doors down couldn't get his vectra up the 1.5" to his drive. Completley useless ::)


I've had two omegas and a beemer, both RWD, and both as sh!t in the wet/snow as any FWD. I've been driving for just on 40 years and the secret to driving in slippery conditions is- slow and careful, no matter which wheels are driven.

Not necessarily... Smooth, slower and controlled... RWD is, IMO better in snow as when you lose drive you can steer with the accelerator ;) ;) ;)

The Mini proved in the 1963 Monte Carlo Rally that FWD was best and nothing has since proved otherwise over 4x4..... :)

In the end it all comes down to a few factors as to what's best in the snow; chassis set up (the old Carltons where one of the best snow drivers & towers), tyre makes, depth of tread, but most importantly it's the that lose nut behind the wheel that makes ALL the difference ;)
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: goats milk on 20 December 2009, 09:59:11
bit offended bout that comment.
its not your age its your experience.
i find im always stuck behind blokes over 50 or women doing 30kmph.
most annoying when your late because you forgot you had to deice/defrost the car!!!!
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Mr Skrunts on 20 December 2009, 11:37:05
Quote
bit offended bout that comment.
its not your age its your experience.
i find im always stuck behind blokes over 50 or women doing 30kmph.
most annoying when your late because you forgot you had to deice/defrost the car!!!!

Could that be inexperience or laziness.  :-X ;D ::)
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: goats milk on 20 December 2009, 11:50:35
bit of both as its my first winter in germany and i wanted to stay in bed
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Mr Skrunts on 20 December 2009, 11:54:43
Quote
bit of both as its my first winter in germany and i wanted to stay in bed

That explains the 30 kph behind the little old ladys then if in Germany.  Our little old ladys are smart and stay tucked  up in bed.
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: goats milk on 20 December 2009, 12:00:12
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Quote
bit of both as its my first winter in germany and i wanted to stay in bed

That explains the 30 kph behind the little old ladys then if in Germany.  Our little old ladys are smart and stay tucked  up in bed.

i wish they did here, you can always garentee youll get stuck behind one, or a truck from poland haha
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: cem_devecioglu on 20 December 2009, 12:55:36
snow chains: I have a special disability in that subject.. tried some and never managed to tighten them properly so I gave up..

snow tires: my favorite.. and if conditions require I keep some studded in baggage with wheels..

snow driving : tested myself in empty roads with ice in the past.. after some contra's I could correct direction and mass transfer of car.. but  need some courage to try with a heavy car imho.. ;D
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: des.allen on 20 December 2009, 14:26:07
Driving home yesterday and for some reason turned up the bottom end of my street(normally go other way), cars on both sides of a steep hill, i got about a hundred and fifty yards up and you guessed it, wheels started sliding!!
The only way i could go was back the way i came, I had to go backwards about six inches at a time as when i braked car would slide!
At one point i was about an inch off one of the cars parked at side!
It took me about twnty minutes to get back to bottom of hill and luckily i didnt hit anything. all the local kids and some parents where all stood watching and cringing when i started to slide
Talk about havin a sweat on :o
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: sexydaz on 20 December 2009, 14:50:22
well ive just picked up the worse half from the outlaws and had to go up a hill and its abloody steep one cars stuck all the way up folk just got out and given up,my est auto just went straight up about 1500 revs wheels slightly spinning and it just kept going,well chuffed with it :y
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Mr Skrunts on 20 December 2009, 14:58:49
I once touched the brakes in one of my yank cars (bought it on a day when 18 inches of snow fell) and the car was so light on the back end there was no way it was going to stop.  So nailed the brakes to lock them up, shuffed the auto into reverse and nailed the throttle till the car stopped going forward.  Not the best way to avoid an accident but it worked.
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Vamps on 20 December 2009, 16:37:46
Quote
I once touched the brakes in one of my yank cars (bought it on a day when 18 inches of snow fell) and the car was so light on the back end there was no way it was going to stop.  So nailed the brakes to lock them up, shuffed the auto into reverse and nailed the throttle till the car stopped going forward.  Not the best way to avoid an accident but it worked.

I had to do just that some years ago in a Rover 827 Auto, no way was it going to stop and another, out of control car, heading towards me, reverse was the only option.. :y
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: jereboam on 20 December 2009, 16:57:09
I once got caught in a snowfall that came down so quickly that everybody lost sight of the road.  There were seven "lanes" of traffic on a three lane motorway.  Which was a pity, because we were all heading for the entrance of the Schiphol Tunnel, which is, at best, three lanes.  I was little worried, as I'd only had my brand new 2.8 Scorpio for ten days.

Eventually got home 4 hours late, but the snow had drifted badly, and there wasn't anywhere to stop safely, let alone park for the night.  Finally had to settle for getting up the best speed I could and driving straight at the friendliest-looking pile of snow.  Crude, but effective.  And no fun in the only car I ever bought new.

At least in Holland I didn't have to worry about driving up and down hills. :) :) :)
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Mr Skrunts on 20 December 2009, 17:01:27
Quote
Quote
I once touched the brakes in one of my yank cars (bought it on a day when 18 inches of snow fell) and the car was so light on the back end there was no way it was going to stop.  So nailed the brakes to lock them up, shuffed the auto into reverse and nailed the throttle till the car stopped going forward.  Not the best way to avoid an accident but it worked.

I had to do just that some years ago in a Rover 827 Auto, no way was it going to stop and another, out of control car, heading towards me, reverse was the only option.. :y


Thats now 2 stories you have told that havee used FWD as RWD and yet you still say FWD is best.  :-X :y
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Mr Skrunts on 20 December 2009, 17:11:03
Quote
I once got caught in a snowfall that came down so quickly that everybody lost sight of the road.  There were seven "lanes" of traffic on a three lane motorway.  Which was a pity, because we were all heading for the entrance of the Schiphol Tunnel, which is, at best, three lanes.  I was little worried, as I'd only had my brand new 2.8 Scorpio for ten days.

Eventually got home 4 hours late, but the snow had drifted badly, and there wasn't anywhere to stop safely, let alone park for the night.  Finally had to settle for getting up the best speed I could and driving straight at the friendliest-looking pile of snow.  Crude, but effective.  And no fun in the only car I ever bought new.

At least in Holland I didn't have to worry about driving up and down hills. :) :) :)


I once teavelled on the A614 I think it is past Clumber park from Blidworth towards the A1, snow was a good 8 to 10 inches deep, 3rd gear all yje way, 22/23 mph felt about right, could not see the edges of the road, so found a set of cats eyes as the road is a three lane road, so kept a set of the cats eyes between the wheels as guidence.

Took a while to get home, but was the 1st and only person on the road in the newly fallen snow.  Only thing I saw was a toyota 4x4 full of tools thats passed me as if I was stood still.

Dropped my girlfried off then goot stook on the most stupid short but steep little bit of road getting off her estate to come home.


All good fun and exoeience though. :y :y  especially guessing where the road was.
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: mathewst on 20 December 2009, 20:03:17
I was once goint tothe country capital, was averaging about 65mph, arrived there in 4 hours by normal road. Parked tried to exit the car and slipped and fell ::).
Never noticed everything was frozen (did notice the snow but not ice) Although car was Lancia Delta. I really miss that car :'(
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Vamps on 20 December 2009, 22:12:17
Quote
Quote
Quote
I once touched the brakes in one of my yank cars (bought it on a day when 18 inches of snow fell) and the car was so light on the back end there was no way it was going to stop.  So nailed the brakes to lock them up, shuffed the auto into reverse and nailed the throttle till the car stopped going forward.  Not the best way to avoid an accident but it worked.

I had to do just that some years ago in a Rover 827 Auto, no way was it going to stop and another, out of control car, heading towards me, reverse was the only option.. :y


Thats now 2 stories you have told that havee used FWD as RWD and yet you still say FWD is best.  :-X :y

I have driven both for years and will continue to do so, I don't choose a car by what wheel drive it is, simply do I like it.  We happen to have, out of 4 Cars, 3 which are Front Whel Drive and the Mig.
Overall, in my own opinion and experience I would put FWD ahead when driving in the snow..... :y
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: tunnie on 20 December 2009, 22:14:30
Quote
Quote
Quote
Quote
I once touched the brakes in one of my yank cars (bought it on a day when 18 inches of snow fell) and the car was so light on the back end there was no way it was going to stop.  So nailed the brakes to lock them up, shuffed the auto into reverse and nailed the throttle till the car stopped going forward.  Not the best way to avoid an accident but it worked.

I had to do just that some years ago in a Rover 827 Auto, no way was it going to stop and another, out of control car, heading towards me, reverse was the only option.. :y


Thats now 2 stories you have told that havee used FWD as RWD and yet you still say FWD is best.  :-X :y

I have driven both for years and will continue to do so, I don't choose a car by what wheel drive it is, simply do I like it.  We happen to have, out of 4 Cars, 3 which are Front Whel Drive and the Mig.
Overall, in my own opinion and experience I would put FWD ahead when driving in the snow..... :y

Front wheel drive will always have the edge, mainly due to weight, you got a nice heavy engine pushing down on the front wheels, its also pulling rather than pushing.

Unless you have a full tank of motion lotion, RWD will struggle to get grip
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Lazydocker on 20 December 2009, 22:19:50
Quote
Quote
Quote
Quote
Quote
I once touched the brakes in one of my yank cars (bought it on a day when 18 inches of snow fell) and the car was so light on the back end there was no way it was going to stop.  So nailed the brakes to lock them up, shuffed the auto into reverse and nailed the throttle till the car stopped going forward.  Not the best way to avoid an accident but it worked.

I had to do just that some years ago in a Rover 827 Auto, no way was it going to stop and another, out of control car, heading towards me, reverse was the only option.. :y


Thats now 2 stories you have told that havee used FWD as RWD and yet you still say FWD is best.  :-X :y

I have driven both for years and will continue to do so, I don't choose a car by what wheel drive it is, simply do I like it.  We happen to have, out of 4 Cars, 3 which are Front Whel Drive and the Mig.
Overall, in my own opinion and experience I would put FWD ahead when driving in the snow..... :y

Front wheel drive will always have the edge, mainly due to weight, you got a nice heavy engine pushing down on the front wheels, its also pulling rather than pushing.

Unless you have a full tank of motion lotion, RWD will struggle to get grip

I think this is personal preference TBH... I had a Veccy which was reasonably well behaved in the snow but the Mig is far superior IMHO, and far more predictable :y :y

As said above... If FWD loses traction it loses steering... At least with RWD you can still steer, albeit with the throttle occasionally ::) ::)

Had SWMBO laughing today when I was travelling along with about a turn of opposite lock to go where we wanted, which makes a change... If I do it in the wet she has kittens ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: cem_devecioglu on 20 December 2009, 22:23:28
Quote
I once touched the brakes in one of my yank cars (bought it on a day when 18 inches of snow fell) and the car was so light on the back end there was no way it was going to stop.  So nailed the brakes to lock them up, shuffed the auto into reverse and nailed the throttle till the car stopped going forward.  Not the best way to avoid an accident but it worked.

 :o :o :o :y
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Lazydocker on 21 December 2009, 14:02:42
Just taken SWMBO's Panda (FWD) for a spin to see how it behaves......

RWD is far better IMO... It just wasn't as pleasant to drive. Mind you... It handbrake turns well :-X :-X ::) ::) ;D ;D
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Mr Skrunts on 21 December 2009, 15:19:44
My old Uno was shite it the snow, could/may have been better with chunkier tyres on though.


Best car I ever had fun with was an old 3 door 1256 viva, set of steel BMW 3 series rims on it, pair of Colway remoulds Mud _ Snows on, couldnt find snow deep enoungh the really see if I could get it stuck.

Often had 2 foot of snow in the 80's when I had that, bloody good fun and expendable if I twanged it.  :y :y
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: jereboam on 21 December 2009, 18:02:35
[size=16]Reassessment[/size]

 :) :)  I've decided I'm not actually that bad as a snow driver.   :) :)

Can't do all the fancy stuff you enthusiasts do - handbrake turns and sideways drifts and all that exhibitionist nonsense - but I don't bang into things and I don't force others to take evasive action.  :)

I just haven't mastered the art of extracting a 3.0 Omega Elite through 10cm of snow on an incline going backwards.  I think I should have done some work with a shovel before I began.   :(
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: LJay on 21 December 2009, 18:22:37
Quote
bit offended bout that comment.
its not your age its your experience.
i find im always stuck behind blokes over 50 or women doing 30kmph.
most annoying when your late because you forgot you had to deice/defrost the car!!!!

Same can be said about yours! I'm a woman and can rarely be accused of holding unprepared drivers up!!! :P


As an after thought I can drive in snow (I live in wales) and I could when I was under 30 too! :y
My Dad taught me to drive by the seat of my pants! The way the car feels underneath you tells you how you need to be driving it! It's advice thats always served me well! :y
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: tigers_gonads on 21 December 2009, 18:22:52
my 2nd ever driving lesson was in a total white out snow storm at night  ;D ;D ;D

all the busses taken off and hardly any cars about

driving a Mk3 escort
no abs / power stearing and on skinny little tyres  :y
my instructor directed me towards a local b&q carpark and taught me for about 20 minuites the finer points of car control  ;D ;D

got too admit i was cr*ping myself at first but soon got the swing of it  :y

can't see it happening nowdays thow ( heath and safety and all that cr*p )

best £5:50 a hour i ever spent  ;D ;D
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Kevin Wood on 21 December 2009, 18:25:49
Quote
Just taken SWMBO's Panda (FWD) for a spin to see how it behaves......

RWD is far better IMO... It just wasn't as pleasant to drive. Mind you... It handbrake turns well :-X :-X ::) ::) ;D ;D

I followed a Panda 4x4 over a mountain pass for about 20 miles in Italy. Thought I'd be held up by it horribly but it was a proper little mountain goat. :D

OK. It was a bit slow on some of the climbs but the driver showed a bit more commitment to the hairpins on the way down than I was prepared to in a 1.7 ton saloon with all that energy to get rid of if it went pear shaped. :o

There's an owner of an ice cream shop on the outside of a hairpin in Valvestino IIRC who's probably still hopping mad at the dent that mysteriously appeared in his sign that day. :-X

Kevin

Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Lazydocker on 21 December 2009, 21:49:39
Quote
Quote
Just taken SWMBO's Panda (FWD) for a spin to see how it behaves......

RWD is far better IMO... It just wasn't as pleasant to drive. Mind you... It handbrake turns well :-X :-X ::) ::) ;D ;D

I followed a Panda 4x4 over a mountain pass for about 20 miles in Italy. Thought I'd be held up by it horribly but it was a proper little mountain goat. :D

OK. It was a bit slow on some of the climbs but the driver showed a bit more commitment to the hairpins on the way down than I was prepared to in a 1.7 ton saloon with all that energy to get rid of if it went pear shaped. :o

There's an owner of an ice cream shop on the outside of a hairpin in Valvestino IIRC who's probably still hopping mad at the dent that mysteriously appeared in his sign that day. :-X

Kevin


Which is actually very capable as a 4x4... The standard FWD ones are crap in snow though... Mind you, to be fair, I was pushing it a little as a test ::) ::) ;D ;D
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: 24_Valve on 02 October 2010, 01:11:08
Steep snowy/icy inclines in my V6 Estate (>1.7tonnes) requires clever use of the TC button... It's my best friend in the snow... steady uphill progress with TC, start to lose momentum, hit TC button (do disable tc) and little blast on the throttle to pick up again... inevitably losing rear end so counter lock as necessary, then hit TC button (re-activate tc) and plod on.. simples  :y  definately nothing to do with age or gender just know how & experience... reduced tyre pressures, decent spare for the nasty things you can't see that will give a puncture  >:( and whatever car you have FWD, RWD definately find a large empty space and chuck it about so you can really feel what it (your car) behaves like... without TC... how it slides, brakes, countersteers etc.  :y

Also MOD trained same as marie & RoSPA advanced... Strongly recommend RoSPA or IAM to all drivers... everyone used do it and now it's hardly mentioned  :-?
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: davethediver on 02 October 2010, 01:16:00
Another one from the dead :D :D
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Vamps on 02 October 2010, 01:34:42
Quote
Steep snowy/icy inclines in my V6 Estate (>1.7tonnes) requires clever use of the TC button... It's my best friend in the snow... steady uphill progress with TC, start to lose momentum, hit TC button (do disable tc) and little blast on the throttle to pick up again... inevitably losing rear end so counter lock as necessary, then hit TC button (re-activate tc) and plod on.. simples  :y  definately nothing to do with age or gender just know how & experience... reduced tyre pressures, decent spare for the nasty things you can't see that will give a puncture  >:( and whatever car you have FWD, RWD definately find a large empty space and chuck it about so you can really feel what it (your car) behaves like... without TC... how it slides, brakes, countersteers etc.  :y

Also MOD trained same as marie & RoSPA advanced... Strongly recommend RoSPA or IAM to all drivers... everyone used do it and now it's hardly mentioned  :-?

Brush the dust off... ::) ::) ::) I am IAM and also HGV and PSV...... :y
My experience with driving in snow is considerable, briefly includes; a Transit pick up  full of LPG bottles is hard to restrict driving in the snow, Police consent to drive the wrong way down the motorway, went about 20 miles to rescue a bus, at one point used a JCB to pull the  bus up a hill a couple of foot at a time
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: 24_Valve on 02 October 2010, 01:50:44
Quote
Posted by Today at 01:16 Another one from the dead  :D :D
lol just seen the date  ;D ;D ;D somehow landed on the thread and found the whole debate quite intersting  ;) don't worry I'll let RIP  :y

Quote
Brush the dust off...    I am IAM and also HGV and PSV......
My experience with driving in snow is considerable, briefly includes; a Transit pick up  full of LPG bottles is hard to restrict driving in the snow, Police consent to drive the wrong way down the motorway, went about 20 miles to rescue a bus, at one point used a JCB to pull the  bus up a hill a couple of foot at a time

lol please do explain... I'm a blue light driver & not allowed to do that, swmbo is plod and can't do that? guessing you must be on amber lights doing recovery  :D :D :D  ;) Anyway I was just giving sound advice by recommending IAM, not suggesting that others on OOF don't have it... promoting safety is a good thing, boasting about considerable experience in the snow is a strange reaction
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Turk on 02 October 2010, 02:21:18
Quote
Quote
Posted by Today at 01:16 Another one from the dead  :D :D
lol just seen the date  ;D ;D ;D somehow landed on the thread and found the whole debate quite intersting  ;) don't worry I'll let RIP  :y

Quote
Brush the dust off...    I am IAM and also HGV and PSV......
My experience with driving in snow is considerable, briefly includes; a Transit pick up  full of LPG bottles is hard to restrict driving in the snow, Police consent to drive the wrong way down the motorway, went about 20 miles to rescue a bus, at one point used a JCB to pull the  bus up a hill a couple of foot at a time

lol please do explain... I'm a blue light driver & not allowed to do that, swmbo is plod and can't do that? guessing you must be on amber lights dropping off cones? recovery? highways agency?  :D :D :D  ;)Anyway I was just giving sound advice by recommending IAM, not suggesting that others on OOF don't have it... promoting safety is a good thing, boasting about considerable experience in the snow is a strange reaction

If the Motorway was closed, it could be authorised, particularly in extreme weather conditions.
Obviously a blue light isn't 'carte blanc' to drive on a Motorway in any direction, at any time, but in extreme weather the only solution may involve the breaking of rules.
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Dishevelled Den on 02 October 2010, 07:23:59
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Another one from the dead :D :D


Without doubt Dave. :y


[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pp_b1-Tr5mU[/media]
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: cem_devecioglu on 02 October 2010, 08:28:55
snow tires , no need for TC, no need for extra stress ;D

but must admit experimented sideways and hard braking  in empty icy areas many times.. ;D
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: plym ian on 02 October 2010, 09:37:44
Quote
snow tires , no need for TC, no need for extra stress ;D

but must admit experimented sideways and hard braking  in empty icy areas many times.. ;D
:y :y
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: Omegatoy on 02 October 2010, 15:28:33
yep Cem has it right fit proper winter tyres to the migg and you will be amazed at the difference, no need to worry about the snow just the other idiots on the road who dont have them!!
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: cem_devecioglu on 02 October 2010, 19:28:15
Quote
yep Cem has it right fit proper winter tyres to the migg and you will be amazed at the difference, no need to worry about the snow just the other idiots on the road who dont have them!!

 :y :y
Title: Re: Snow driving
Post by: tidla on 02 October 2010, 19:32:43
got me looking out the window for something id missed on the weather...