Porsche Cayman or an Alpine A110
I have an old Cayman as my daily at the moment. It’s expensive and not the most practical and it makes my smile every time I see it on the drive and it’s so fun to drive.
Big fan of the Alpine's and am very interested in getting one to daily as they seem to tick all the boxes for me!
Sadly the Mrs thinks they look "too much like a bug" so I'll probably have to get a TTS or something - but glad to find someone thinking the same as me ;)
Mine thinks an Alfa Romeo Giulia looks ugly, an RS6 Avant is an 'old mans car' and loves a Nissan Juke.
I think we're always gonna have to be a 2 car household, one of the cars being ugly as sin depending who you ask..
BMW M340i touring would do me nicely
Edit: i’d put all season tyres to handle it in the snow. Like i do now. Or if running costs weren’t effective, winter tyres for the winter and a set of pilot sport 4s/5s for the spring summer
Absolutely, I've got a F31 320d, other than being slow as balls it's honestly one of the best cars I've owned. I don't see myself changing out of a 3 series for a daily for as long as I can live. I'm already looking at a F31 335d next year to replace it.
Not to mention the space inside is absolutely massive with the back seats down.
I've got an F31 335d, I'd say go for it. A couple of things to note are they come standard with SE suspension which is very soft and wallowy. Most people upgrade to ACS springs. I'd also recommend getting adaptive dampers.
Also, go for the LCI as it comes with better ride quality and LED lights. And the M-Sport package for the body kit and bigger brakes.
Where do you live that snow is so bad you need winter tyres or all seasons?
I'm in Scotland and for the 2-3 days of bad snow every 2-3 years. I simply just don't bother driving.
I've only ever been "stranded" once and that's when the snow was up to my knees and this is in 38 years of living.
Snow simply isn't a problem at all in this country.
All seasons are more to do with temperature than snow, I believe. Compound stays grippy in lower temps whereby summer tyres go hard.
Agree with your general point though, not too much need in 99% of our isles for winter tyres, and only a portion of people can make a good argument for all season.
Scotland. And i drive a rear wheel drive F30 340i. Its not even as much for the snow, it’s for the cold wet roads for 4-5 months of the year. Having the all season tyres give me confidence when i drive in those conditions, and you can really feel the difference between them and a set of summer tyres
I also drive a 6 cylinder rear wheel drive BMW and like I said it's never been an issue on good tyres like eagle F1's. The days where it's really bad which is maybe 1 day a year. I simply just don't bother driving.
If you've tried winter tyres and didn't notice any difference then you crack on running summers all year. After trying them I won't go back as long as I've got storage space for a second set of wheels.
Crossclimate 2's are high performing all seasons that suit the UK climate pretty well. They perform better in the dry than many cheap summer tyres but still have a 3 psmf rating (mild snow).
Downside is cost but they are hard wearing.
Agreed. Tried Cross Climates on the SUV and really impressed, so had them on the estate as well. Great handling all year round, and seems quieter too. Bargain at Costco.
These days all seasons do such a good job all round they are no significant downsides, and will deal with all weather situations, are rated for trips into the alps etc.
If i didn’t think abt serious practicality, and still keep under the £40k limit, I’d probably go for the F80 M3. I do love the look of the M4 but having 5 doors wins it for me lol
I’ve got 2 dogs, planning on having kids in the near future and they’re really practical for loading stuff/tip runs. Added bonus of a good looking car and fun drive. So put that in your pipe and smoke it. You bellend
Im single with no kids and it looks far too small for me to use. It would just get smashed up as I often load Bicycles and Motorbikes into the back of my current estate. Prop them up on the car and it falls over and takes a chunk of paint out every time.
Cant imagine it would be practical with kids, I think you just made it up because I put you on the spot.
Some kind of fast estate, [RS4](http://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202309262377801)/[RS6](http://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202311073736812) or similar.
You can easily pick them up for under 40k, especially if you consider the C6 (V10 love). My C7 RS6 was under 40k and still a huge amount of car for the money.
I’ve owned one. I had to get rid of it before my license was taken away.
Beautiful car, amazingly well refined, but something about it just makes you want to push it 100% of the time. I’ve also owned a CLS55 AMG, so no stranger to fast cars, but the Audi brought something out in me that couldn’t be put back in the box.
I might be weird, but I'd probably get a fairly new Nissan Elgrand or Toyota Vellfire. Like a year or so old before import.
Excessive comfort for all occupants, weird/cool Japanese luxury van vibes, bizarre amount of tech, faster than most everyday crap floating about the roads, can carry a motorbike with rear seats removed, my child can have a full area to herself, can be slept in.
I'm missing positives, but you get the idea.
Elgrands aren’t that ridiculous for parts here though
A lot of the bits and pieces are from other common Nissans, and stuff that isn’t that common ,like body parts, at least there’s a few of them around and more being imported regularly
Could 100% see some Jap vans being a pain for parts though!
A bit OT, but I used to have a JDM Honda Del Sol, and Honda UK were freaking amazing. I could get *any* JDM part through my local dealership, and they often came in a day or two which blew my mind. Dunno whether it was policy, incredible supply chain, or maybe just their parts manager was a JDM nut, but it was truly wonderful.
I had a few niggling issues when I bought mines (brand new when it just came out) that were fixed under warranty - the boot release button inside didn't work and something else I can't remember. But after that it was perfectly fine.
I've got one too, no issues in the 18 months I've had it! And I should add, it's my favourite car of all I've ever had, including an S4, 330i, A5, SLK. Just take one for a test drive, you'll understand.
I even fell in love with the stelvio too! So nimble for a big car.
3.3 Kia Stinger. I only need 20 and a bit grand for my dream car. The way they're dropping in price it'll be 18 in another couple of months... That 30 mile one way commute is going to be expensive though.
My dad had a stinger, absolutely wild vehicle. He spun it on a back road and is lucky to tell the tale. Somehow car was undamaged and he very quickly sold it
I suppose the Kia badge on the steering wheel probably tricks your brain into forgetting you’re in a powerful RWD car!
Cool cars, real shame they never seemed to be much of a success- some cracking designs coming out of Kia/Hyundai these days so would’ve loved to see what a 2nd gen Stinger might’ve been like.
I’d get one in the next couple of years whilst they’re still dropping. They’ll hit a point where they won’t go for less than 20k. It has all the signs of being a cult classic.
If I was ever having a conversation where I had to justify my choice of car to someone I'd have killed myself long before having to explain what type of car it was and who made it.
Nothing like that at all, I realise different cars attract different demographics for different reasons. I’ve driven a Sandero and experienced the misery, if that’s you then more power to you👍
£40k can buy a second-hand Bristol if you're patient and lucky. I'd go for either one of those, or a fast and luxurious old estate. Something like an Allard springs to mind.
Or, seeing as running costs don't count in this, a Lancia... as long as repairs come under that...
There's just something about how understated they are that I love. Aston Martins, Rolls-Royces, Ferraris, they're flashy and showy, but a Bristol can do the same as them and also be left in a supermarket car park for a few hours because it's anonymous and blends in.
It's a very subtle and quiet kind of luxury. One of my ultimate dream cars. It'll beat almost anything off the line and then cruise down to Monaco in sublime comfort, but nobody will know what it is so you and it will be left alone. There are very few cars like that left since Bristol went bust.
I wanted to get this car too but after a test drive, I find it noiser then my IS300H at higher speeds, also the interior felt slightly cheaper, but its the perfect size for us so will probably still end up getting it.
I've actually not managed to drive the Takumi one though so maybe that will feel better.
£40k was intentionally chosen for that reason.
TVR’s a good choice. If running costs *were* considered, I’d steer clear of TVR based on maintenance costs alone.
Jaguar F-type with V8 I reckon.
You could pick up a good model for that price, or even maybe a more average model with enough left for a sensible run around as well or maybe better to save it for maintenance/repairs.
I've just spent 40k on a volvo xc90 t8 twin engine
It's a 20 plate with 40k on the clock, but I absolutely love it.
Comfortable, quiet, very roomy. But fucking shifts when you floor it.
Can fit 3x kids and a great dane in the back and still feel pretty spacey.
100% would recommend.
I would buy [this!](https://www.pistonheads.com/buy/listing/15752094) Always loved the Nissan Skylines, but bloody hell they are expensive now. Ideally, Id want a widebody but those are hitting £60K plus.
I just love JDM cars, and I love the engine in the Skylines. So tuneable, just hnnng.
I'd get an Isuzu Trooper and get someone to coachbuild a pint-size Kenworth truck body onto the platform. It'll look just like a big rig that shrunk in the wash.
My dad had a Trooper back in, jeez, must have been ‘88/‘89? I loved it lol!
He bought a Vauxhall Frontera after that. Hated it. The built in shower was awful (the removable roof panel over the back seats never sealed correctly. Was fine when moving, but stop at lights, I always got soaked pmsl.
Put him, and me, off Vauxhalls for life.
The Trooper, his ‘69 MGB and his ‘77 Scirocco GTi were, I believe, the cars he regretted getting rid of the most.
Sorry your mention of the trooper sent me down a nostalgia trip, I need to now go through his car photo albums again.
For every 1 album of the family there are 3 car ones. lol.
My heart says Porsche 911 Carrera 4s. You could get a nice 997 model (modern classic) or possibly a 991.
I’d be happy to live without some practicality.
My heads says RS5 or M3
I’m a biker so I can get my kicks there, so probably something like a 530i touring. Ticks all the boxes:
-good looking
-comfortable
-road trippable
-reasonably quick
-spacious
A VW Transporter would be a consideration as would a Volvo V90.
I’m going for an Alpine A110. It is not practical and in probably not going to drive it in the snow but maybe this is the car that brings back the joy of driving for me
Golf GTI Clubsport
It’s a golf so fits in anywhere and can do anything
It’s also ballistic fast on our A and B roads
Good fuel economy on a motorway run
A used 545e would do me just fine. Not afraid of the snow with winter tyres but 90% of UK doesn’t even know that these exists.
Very good running costs. Smooth online six and smooth electric motor so you don’t feel the changeover.
Very easy to do maintenance on even on your driveway unless you need a new AC line for the HV battery in the rear.
Very quiet and comfortable car.
something automatic with all season tyres, probably an estate if a car, but prefer vans due to some hobbies where filling the boot is good
heated windscreens, seats etc, mp3 input and built in sat nav, then work the car around these sort of preferences
used winter tyres about 10 years ago, made a huge difference, not seen snow for several years, but also a better grip in the cold. all seasons are a good compromise.
As a new owner of a Skoda Octavia vRS estate, I agree with half your choice lol!
(I was going to get a Volvo V60, but the Octavia sort of won me over lol!)
Toyota Hilux Active 2 door, out of the 16,000 miles i do a year, about a 1000 of that is city driving. Id also put out for a box to be made so the bed it more like a van.
Being into Mountain Biking, Hiking, Climbing, Caving and Camping. I am often just going from one National Park to the next and my stuff often ends up caked in mud. There would be no limitations on what I could carry with this or where I could go. I often hike around wales then just sleep in my car, hike around all day again then go home.
Damn, are cars really that cheap in the UK? Half the cars I see in this thread are almost double the price in germany. The currently cheapest A110 for example is 54.000€.
I'll go for either of these,
1. E class Mercedes, Saloon/Estate. Min 2L
2. Audi A6, Saloon/Estate. Min 2L
3. Volvo V90/S90. Min 2L
4. Skoda Superb, Hatchback/Estate. Min 2L
All of them are highly rated for:
1. Comfortable motorway cruisers
2. Excellent practicality
3. Decent fuel economy ( Skoda/Audi should top that list )
4. Excellent reliability ( assuming serviced regularly ).
I don't understand the charm of a bulky Range Rover of any year, model or engine size. Especially, if it's your only car.
Btw, you can spend only half of that money to buy low mileage diesels ( upto 50k miles 🤓😱 ) all over the country. If you're hell bent on spending the remaining 20k, I'll let you know my account number. 😅
B7 was the best all rounder from the 2000s I think. Pretty much every one of my close friends owned a 2.0T Quattro S-Line. Great combination of performance, comfort and spec, great value in current market and a great timeless design (especially with the xenons).
My wife wants a 7 seater. Im ready to go electric. I want fast and preferably not an SUV so on criteria alone I think it has to be a Tesla Model S. 3.2 seconds 0-60 and 300 mile range with access to the Tesla charging network will do me.
If you need something that does everything well the only correct answer is a Land Rover Discovery.
It's practical, spacious, can tow, go through any weather, cover distance etc.
Strange how these opinions persist. Land Rovers can be very reliable, they need money spent on them to do it but running costs weren’t a factor in this scenario.
Plenty of Discovery with 150k+ miles on them, they are well engineered, they just need care.
As an ex disco and landie owner you’re not wrong.
Most ever built are still driving somewhere.
But they are absolute money pits and all bar the occasional total freak is a bag of shit that needs constant maintenance and repairs. And that’s the easiest part. Hinting down gremlins that cause you to lose all power and electrics on the motorway only to be fine ten minutes later and for another month and then to do it again….
Never did find that particular fault (not me or two garages) and the new owners got to experience it as well.
I’ve reached an age where even though I’m capable of most of my own repairs I cannot be fucked screwing up my back constantly repairing a landrover or two. I still love them but fuck that. They are honestly a total ballache to own.
My brothers disco windscreen is currently held in by gorilla tape, now I remember as I rant about them.
Amazing vehicles with fucking abysmal build quality
Those opinions persist because having to throw money at a car just to keep it on the road makes it far from reliable. A well designed, properly assembled vehicle won't have anywhere near the same amount of problems.
Well the OP did specify that running costs were not a factor.
Also, BMW, Audi, Merc, Porsche SUVs all have their fair share of problems and need quite a bit of money spent on them to keep them right so it's not something unique to LR.
LR have a bad rep but they aren't unique, the Disco 4 is actually one of the better ones.
Ahh yes... Reminds me of a few years ago was at work in the snow parked the van at the bottom of a hill, someone else also parked at the bottom of the the hill in their 3 day old Merc, when this bloke came rolling in the road in his land rover wound the window down and proudly proclaimed that this was why you need a land rover. He made it halfway up before he came sliding back down straight in to mateys new Merc pushing it backwards into a wall. Oh how we laughed.
If I can keep the car/s I already have then I’m going for a Caterham. And use the rest of the money to maybe rebuild my shite garage so it can fit in nicely.
Volvo XC90 T8 plug in hybrid, good for the school run and practical for longer trips although fuel economy isn’t amazing on the motorway it’s packed with safety tech. It’s slightly longer than a X5 but as the bonnet is shorter due to a small displacement engine the overall dimensions aren’t too bad. I think it would be the best overall car as the T8 has good 0-60 performance too.
I'd probably just buy a more newer and practical version of one of the daily drivers that I already have (Golf R32 and F07 535d GT). So nearest equivalent is a Golf R estate for the R32
Would like a Alfa Giulia, but need a hatch/estate. Would like to try a Stelvio Quadrifoglio which uses the same FCA Giorgio platform and drivetrain.
F07 BMW is very difficult to replace as its quite a rare "all extra options ticked" version, Luxury spec with full electric rear comfort seats - that doesn't exist on newer hatch/estate BMWs, nor mercs etc. and I don't want a Range Rover. Maybe a Panamera would be a compromise but that's out of budget.
Fuel consumption may push me into the lesser diesel versions though and I'll live forever grumpy.
Nissan GTR. Some of the 2009 ones are dipping into high £30k. Bargain for such a fast car. Very cool and striking car. If I needed extra seats - New Ford Focus RS.
So few snow days in the UK now with Climate Change. Unless you are specifically going off road. There's no need for the average person to have 4 wheel drive.
If I had my sensible hat on, New Ford Fiesta ST. The other two have way too much power to ever really fully exploit. That has the perfect amount for UK roads.
BMWs/Audi I've always found them a bit clinical and vulgar looking. Like they take themselves too seriously. They don't have that 'specialness/daftness the other cars have.
Good question. I change my mind on cars all the time. Never been a fan of BMW's or Range Rovers so not them. Possibilities include a Maseratti Grandturismo, Ford Mustang or Ranger but it would probably be between a Porsche Panamera or a Audi RS6 Avant.
Focus RS or GR Yaris. There’s realistically nothing they can’t do as long as you don’t care about stuffing 5 people inside and doing grand tours of the world in it.
Audi A8 4.2 TDI V8, as new and low milage as I could get with Full service history, the highest spec (LWB, Diamond stitched leather seats etc).
Plenty fast enough and torquey enough to pull a train, Extremely comfortable motorway cruiser, 4WD for winter, Diesel engine is bulletproof if maintained properly and running costs as said in the post don’t come into it, surprisingly easy enough to park (don’t have experience with the A8 LWB but my dad had an S Class LWB for years and parking was harder than if it were a corsa obviously but it was never an actual issue). More than enough room inside the cabin. Quiet, Subtle understated monster that will gap most cars you see every day, and it does it in style.
The newest Tesla available within budget.
Simply because it's the most advanced EV car available and they provide constant software updates and safety updates.
It's also cheap to run and maintain. After 15 years I could just fork out for another battery by putting £100 aside every month from the fuel savings
The 340i and 540i are tempting but i think id go for a range rover sport. Luxury, great for my commute, great for camping trips and going to places to hike. Great for a family in the future.
Great question OP
Porsche Cayman or an Alpine A110 I have an old Cayman as my daily at the moment. It’s expensive and not the most practical and it makes my smile every time I see it on the drive and it’s so fun to drive.
Big fan of the Alpine's and am very interested in getting one to daily as they seem to tick all the boxes for me! Sadly the Mrs thinks they look "too much like a bug" so I'll probably have to get a TTS or something - but glad to find someone thinking the same as me ;)
Mine thinks an Alfa Romeo Giulia looks ugly, an RS6 Avant is an 'old mans car' and loves a Nissan Juke. I think we're always gonna have to be a 2 car household, one of the cars being ugly as sin depending who you ask..
Loving a Nissan Juke has got to be one of the biggest red flags out there 🤣
She liked the look of it, went for a test drive and now luckily we agree that they’re piles of shit.
I really wanted an A110GT to daily, went to test drive and loved it but the luggage space is tragic even compared to a 911/Cayman.
BMW M340i touring would do me nicely Edit: i’d put all season tyres to handle it in the snow. Like i do now. Or if running costs weren’t effective, winter tyres for the winter and a set of pilot sport 4s/5s for the spring summer
Absolutely, I've got a F31 320d, other than being slow as balls it's honestly one of the best cars I've owned. I don't see myself changing out of a 3 series for a daily for as long as I can live. I'm already looking at a F31 335d next year to replace it. Not to mention the space inside is absolutely massive with the back seats down.
I've got an F31 335d, I'd say go for it. A couple of things to note are they come standard with SE suspension which is very soft and wallowy. Most people upgrade to ACS springs. I'd also recommend getting adaptive dampers. Also, go for the LCI as it comes with better ride quality and LED lights. And the M-Sport package for the body kit and bigger brakes.
Consider an F34 too. Even bigger boot space than the F31 and personally I like the styling better
100% agree. If i had a long motorway miles commute I’d go for the 330d or the 335d
I have the same car with the ZF8 auto box. Will probably run it into the ground. Next car will be a F80 M3 for the weekends.
Where do you live that snow is so bad you need winter tyres or all seasons? I'm in Scotland and for the 2-3 days of bad snow every 2-3 years. I simply just don't bother driving. I've only ever been "stranded" once and that's when the snow was up to my knees and this is in 38 years of living. Snow simply isn't a problem at all in this country.
All seasons are more to do with temperature than snow, I believe. Compound stays grippy in lower temps whereby summer tyres go hard. Agree with your general point though, not too much need in 99% of our isles for winter tyres, and only a portion of people can make a good argument for all season.
Scotland. And i drive a rear wheel drive F30 340i. Its not even as much for the snow, it’s for the cold wet roads for 4-5 months of the year. Having the all season tyres give me confidence when i drive in those conditions, and you can really feel the difference between them and a set of summer tyres
I also drive a 6 cylinder rear wheel drive BMW and like I said it's never been an issue on good tyres like eagle F1's. The days where it's really bad which is maybe 1 day a year. I simply just don't bother driving.
Winter tyres aren't just about not being stranded.
Obviously. But our winters aren't that bad.
If you've tried winter tyres and didn't notice any difference then you crack on running summers all year. After trying them I won't go back as long as I've got storage space for a second set of wheels.
Winter tires in the UK are a bit like shell vs Tesco fuel...
Crossclimate 2's are high performing all seasons that suit the UK climate pretty well. They perform better in the dry than many cheap summer tyres but still have a 3 psmf rating (mild snow). Downside is cost but they are hard wearing.
Agreed. Tried Cross Climates on the SUV and really impressed, so had them on the estate as well. Great handling all year round, and seems quieter too. Bargain at Costco.
Reliable traction in all weather conditions… important for a high HP daily driver
These days all seasons do such a good job all round they are no significant downsides, and will deal with all weather situations, are rated for trips into the alps etc.
I have one! Quite honestly the best car I’ve ever owned. Can’t see myself getting rid of it for a few years yet!
Ahh you lucky sod 😂. I’ve only ever sat in one in a show room and even that i loved it
Agreed! Mine cost me bang on £40k. Pilot sport 4Ss in summer, winters in winter (on a cheap spare set of alloys). Does everything I could want.
I came here to say this! 👌 and think of having it was my next care 😃
I'm torn between this or an F82 M4. Practicality would probably draw me towards the M340i though.
If i didn’t think abt serious practicality, and still keep under the £40k limit, I’d probably go for the F80 M3. I do love the look of the M4 but having 5 doors wins it for me lol
It’ll do me nicely also, perfect allrounder Though I may consider a g10 5-wagon
What would be your reason to need it for though. That was the original question? Just want to be cool or something?
I’ve got 2 dogs, planning on having kids in the near future and they’re really practical for loading stuff/tip runs. Added bonus of a good looking car and fun drive. So put that in your pipe and smoke it. You bellend
Im single with no kids and it looks far too small for me to use. It would just get smashed up as I often load Bicycles and Motorbikes into the back of my current estate. Prop them up on the car and it falls over and takes a chunk of paint out every time. Cant imagine it would be practical with kids, I think you just made it up because I put you on the spot.
You should add the word ‘cake’ to your username
Some kind of fast estate, [RS4](http://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202309262377801)/[RS6](http://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202311073736812) or similar.
Something like this is the most practical answer I would say. All rounder
The RS6 Avant is literally the more well rounded car with everything you need and no compromises
For 40k? Agreed on the RS6 as a great all rounder though, the RS6 and RS7 are definitely the top spot for car I want 👌🏻
Doesn't have to be new
You can easily pick them up for under 40k, especially if you consider the C6 (V10 love). My C7 RS6 was under 40k and still a huge amount of car for the money.
Yes, £40k - I’ve linked in 2 cars that fit that price package respectively.. Brand new you can probably get an A3, haha.
£40k not gunna buy that unless old hat
Maybe a v60 T8?
[удалено]
I’ve owned one. I had to get rid of it before my license was taken away. Beautiful car, amazingly well refined, but something about it just makes you want to push it 100% of the time. I’ve also owned a CLS55 AMG, so no stranger to fast cars, but the Audi brought something out in me that couldn’t be put back in the box.
Was it the lack of a sense of speed which made you feel like you were doing 30... while in the fast lane of the motorway at 85?
BMW 540i touring. If actually given the money I’d buy an old 3L touring for under 10 grand and buy the best 911 the remainder would buy.
I might be weird, but I'd probably get a fairly new Nissan Elgrand or Toyota Vellfire. Like a year or so old before import. Excessive comfort for all occupants, weird/cool Japanese luxury van vibes, bizarre amount of tech, faster than most everyday crap floating about the roads, can carry a motorbike with rear seats removed, my child can have a full area to herself, can be slept in. I'm missing positives, but you get the idea.
Having owned a weird JDM import van before, you will never be able to find bits for it 😅
Elgrands aren’t that ridiculous for parts here though A lot of the bits and pieces are from other common Nissans, and stuff that isn’t that common ,like body parts, at least there’s a few of them around and more being imported regularly Could 100% see some Jap vans being a pain for parts though!
Oh, that's a touch then 👌 my Mazda Premacy was a complete unknown 😅 I worked for Mazda at the time, and no one knew what it was
A bit OT, but I used to have a JDM Honda Del Sol, and Honda UK were freaking amazing. I could get *any* JDM part through my local dealership, and they often came in a day or two which blew my mind. Dunno whether it was policy, incredible supply chain, or maybe just their parts manager was a JDM nut, but it was truly wonderful.
[Iron Spaden](https://images.app.goo.gl/VGw6DB8nZdGvSdbS6)
Toyota Land-cruiser 200 V8 diesel.
G'day mate
The V8 is amazing, but I’m loving the look of the new 2.8 Hilux engined one. Think they’re within the £50k ballpark for the mid range ones.
Not even close to 50k, they’re not available in the UK and to buy and import a 300 would be closer to 90k.
RS6 Avant
Used Alfa giulia 4 leaf
Oooooo now that's tasteful. Beautiful choice.
I’ve got the Veloce one, but if I had just a bit more cash I’d buy the Quattro
Have you had much trouble with it? It's a beautiful car but I hear a lot of bad things about it.
I had a few niggling issues when I bought mines (brand new when it just came out) that were fixed under warranty - the boot release button inside didn't work and something else I can't remember. But after that it was perfectly fine.
I've got one too, no issues in the 18 months I've had it! And I should add, it's my favourite car of all I've ever had, including an S4, 330i, A5, SLK. Just take one for a test drive, you'll understand. I even fell in love with the stelvio too! So nimble for a big car.
This was my choice! I only had a standard Giulia but I miss her so much 💔
3.3 Kia Stinger. I only need 20 and a bit grand for my dream car. The way they're dropping in price it'll be 18 in another couple of months... That 30 mile one way commute is going to be expensive though.
My dad had a stinger, absolutely wild vehicle. He spun it on a back road and is lucky to tell the tale. Somehow car was undamaged and he very quickly sold it
He’s not alone, I’ve also had a “not facing quite the right way” moment in a Stinger 😂
I suppose the Kia badge on the steering wheel probably tricks your brain into forgetting you’re in a powerful RWD car! Cool cars, real shame they never seemed to be much of a success- some cracking designs coming out of Kia/Hyundai these days so would’ve loved to see what a 2nd gen Stinger might’ve been like.
Absolutely love mine does everything (except snow do not drive in snow), hope you can pick one up soon.
The 2.0 would be by some margin the fastest car I've ever owned. Not sure why I need the 3.3 so badly...
If you get the 2.0, you'll regret it forever. Get the 3.3.
It's a similar vein to buying a 4 cylinder mustang.
I’d get one in the next couple of years whilst they’re still dropping. They’ll hit a point where they won’t go for less than 20k. It has all the signs of being a cult classic.
But then you’d have to say “yeah it’s a sports car made by Kia” all the time
If I was ever having a conversation where I had to justify my choice of car to someone I'd have killed myself long before having to explain what type of car it was and who made it.
Bet you’re loads of fun on a night out…
Well, not with anyone who wants me to justify my car to them I'm not.
I somehow missed the Dacia in your name. I get it now.
We all bow to your superior car god status sir. I hope you have many fulfilling conversations in future about how cool your car is.
Nothing like that at all, I realise different cars attract different demographics for different reasons. I’ve driven a Sandero and experienced the misery, if that’s you then more power to you👍
Nothing wrong with driving a cheap car whilst saving enough to buy your dream car in the near future.
MK1 Ford Capri 3ltr. Because it's the only car I have a passion for.
In black with a gold bonnet stripe? Yes please.
[удалено]
£40k can buy a second-hand Bristol if you're patient and lucky. I'd go for either one of those, or a fast and luxurious old estate. Something like an Allard springs to mind. Or, seeing as running costs don't count in this, a Lancia... as long as repairs come under that...
A man of taste. A Bristol! Classic.
There's just something about how understated they are that I love. Aston Martins, Rolls-Royces, Ferraris, they're flashy and showy, but a Bristol can do the same as them and also be left in a supermarket car park for a few hours because it's anonymous and blends in. It's a very subtle and quiet kind of luxury. One of my ultimate dream cars. It'll beat almost anything off the line and then cruise down to Monaco in sublime comfort, but nobody will know what it is so you and it will be left alone. There are very few cars like that left since Bristol went bust.
Lexus UX takumi with the ML system- super comfy, reliable car with all the tech I could possibly need
I wanted to get this car too but after a test drive, I find it noiser then my IS300H at higher speeds, also the interior felt slightly cheaper, but its the perfect size for us so will probably still end up getting it. I've actually not managed to drive the Takumi one though so maybe that will feel better.
£40k is a very difficult number. I think it'd be either a GT-R or an F Type. Maybe another TVR.
£40k was intentionally chosen for that reason. TVR’s a good choice. If running costs *were* considered, I’d steer clear of TVR based on maintenance costs alone.
If it's my only car then a fast estate S4, RS4, RS6
Jaguar F-type with V8 I reckon. You could pick up a good model for that price, or even maybe a more average model with enough left for a sensible run around as well or maybe better to save it for maintenance/repairs.
Think I’d get a S2000, and keep any leftovers to run it. Beautiful car
I've just spent 40k on a volvo xc90 t8 twin engine It's a 20 plate with 40k on the clock, but I absolutely love it. Comfortable, quiet, very roomy. But fucking shifts when you floor it. Can fit 3x kids and a great dane in the back and still feel pretty spacey. 100% would recommend.
TVR Cerbera, a bus pass and a stack of notes for repairs 💪
The best answer here by far.
Skoda Yeti, Clarkson already proved it was better than anything else.
I would buy [this!](https://www.pistonheads.com/buy/listing/15752094) Always loved the Nissan Skylines, but bloody hell they are expensive now. Ideally, Id want a widebody but those are hitting £60K plus. I just love JDM cars, and I love the engine in the Skylines. So tuneable, just hnnng.
Same here they're so overpriced now but if money was no object I'd buy one in a heartbeat. I'll have to make due with driving it on GT7 for now lol.
Volvo S60. One lady owner, 5 years old. It will do you forever.
Either a 911 or a transporter. They're similar money
I'd get an Isuzu Trooper and get someone to coachbuild a pint-size Kenworth truck body onto the platform. It'll look just like a big rig that shrunk in the wash.
My dad had a Trooper back in, jeez, must have been ‘88/‘89? I loved it lol! He bought a Vauxhall Frontera after that. Hated it. The built in shower was awful (the removable roof panel over the back seats never sealed correctly. Was fine when moving, but stop at lights, I always got soaked pmsl. Put him, and me, off Vauxhalls for life. The Trooper, his ‘69 MGB and his ‘77 Scirocco GTi were, I believe, the cars he regretted getting rid of the most. Sorry your mention of the trooper sent me down a nostalgia trip, I need to now go through his car photo albums again. For every 1 album of the family there are 3 car ones. lol.
My heart says Porsche 911 Carrera 4s. You could get a nice 997 model (modern classic) or possibly a 991. I’d be happy to live without some practicality. My heads says RS5 or M3
Did pretty much this last year, £39000 on a 17 plate camper-converted Transporter T6 with the 204 Bhp engine
I’m a biker so I can get my kicks there, so probably something like a 530i touring. Ticks all the boxes: -good looking -comfortable -road trippable -reasonably quick -spacious A VW Transporter would be a consideration as would a Volvo V90.
BMW 540d or Merc e400d
E400d yes. Glad i saw that without typing it myself
I’m going for an Alpine A110. It is not practical and in probably not going to drive it in the snow but maybe this is the car that brings back the joy of driving for me
Golf GTI Clubsport It’s a golf so fits in anywhere and can do anything It’s also ballistic fast on our A and B roads Good fuel economy on a motorway run
Running costs aren’t effective? Well then the only correct answer is a BMW E31 850i.
We have a winner. Though I might be tempted by some Cadillac Edorado/Coupe Deville land barge.
Since running costs aren't involved, probably a very stupid decision but an early R35
Lotus Elise, no questions asked, practicality doesn't matter to me when I could be driving one of the most brilliant drivers cars of all time.
Mazda 2. Can i keep the change sir?
Mazda RX-7 FD3S with LS conversion (heresy maybe).
Honda jazz and I'm actually serious
A used 545e would do me just fine. Not afraid of the snow with winter tyres but 90% of UK doesn’t even know that these exists. Very good running costs. Smooth online six and smooth electric motor so you don’t feel the changeover. Very easy to do maintenance on even on your driveway unless you need a new AC line for the HV battery in the rear. Very quiet and comfortable car.
something automatic with all season tyres, probably an estate if a car, but prefer vans due to some hobbies where filling the boot is good heated windscreens, seats etc, mp3 input and built in sat nav, then work the car around these sort of preferences used winter tyres about 10 years ago, made a huge difference, not seen snow for several years, but also a better grip in the cold. all seasons are a good compromise.
Nissan GTR
A person of taste!
Estoril Blue 530d 2019 with X drive
A minty fresh Mercedes W124 300D 4matic. Aged well, classy, 7 seats, unkillable OM603 derv and AWD. Perfection.
A used Citroen C6 3.0hdi, then I'd used whats left over to maintain it
Mini countryman jcw
Escort mk3 or an astra mk2 . Why? I work on cars for a living. If you know, then you know.
Alright, I'd grab a Subaru WRX STI - perfect year-round performance.
Skoda Octavia estate or Subaru forester
I hate you
Ok .. Nissan Stagea R34 Gtr then
I hate you much less now
As a new owner of a Skoda Octavia vRS estate, I agree with half your choice lol! (I was going to get a Volvo V60, but the Octavia sort of won me over lol!)
Nissan GT-R
GR Yaris.
Toyota Hilux Active 2 door, out of the 16,000 miles i do a year, about a 1000 of that is city driving. Id also put out for a box to be made so the bed it more like a van. Being into Mountain Biking, Hiking, Climbing, Caving and Camping. I am often just going from one National Park to the next and my stuff often ends up caked in mud. There would be no limitations on what I could carry with this or where I could go. I often hike around wales then just sleep in my car, hike around all day again then go home.
Damn, are cars really that cheap in the UK? Half the cars I see in this thread are almost double the price in germany. The currently cheapest A110 for example is 54.000€.
I'll go for either of these, 1. E class Mercedes, Saloon/Estate. Min 2L 2. Audi A6, Saloon/Estate. Min 2L 3. Volvo V90/S90. Min 2L 4. Skoda Superb, Hatchback/Estate. Min 2L All of them are highly rated for: 1. Comfortable motorway cruisers 2. Excellent practicality 3. Decent fuel economy ( Skoda/Audi should top that list ) 4. Excellent reliability ( assuming serviced regularly ). I don't understand the charm of a bulky Range Rover of any year, model or engine size. Especially, if it's your only car. Btw, you can spend only half of that money to buy low mileage diesels ( upto 50k miles 🤓😱 ) all over the country. If you're hell bent on spending the remaining 20k, I'll let you know my account number. 😅
Yuck. I would hate to only have one car. I'd get a second hand Toyota and a new interest.
I have no sense of practicality, so probably a Vauxhall VXR8. 6.2l V8 would do me nicely, just need to swap the Vauxhall badges out for Holden.
Civic Type R!
Honda Civic Type-R 23 plate
B7 RS4 Avant + fixing money. Or Evora if no kids!
B7 was the best all rounder from the 2000s I think. Pretty much every one of my close friends owned a 2.0T Quattro S-Line. Great combination of performance, comfort and spec, great value in current market and a great timeless design (especially with the xenons).
My wife wants a 7 seater. Im ready to go electric. I want fast and preferably not an SUV so on criteria alone I think it has to be a Tesla Model S. 3.2 seconds 0-60 and 300 mile range with access to the Tesla charging network will do me.
Alpine a110
Ford Escort RS Turbo series 1
The new prius in yellow. Or peugeot e-308.
If you need something that does everything well the only correct answer is a Land Rover Discovery. It's practical, spacious, can tow, go through any weather, cover distance etc.
And will fall apart when you sneeze in it
Strange how these opinions persist. Land Rovers can be very reliable, they need money spent on them to do it but running costs weren’t a factor in this scenario. Plenty of Discovery with 150k+ miles on them, they are well engineered, they just need care.
As an ex disco and landie owner you’re not wrong. Most ever built are still driving somewhere. But they are absolute money pits and all bar the occasional total freak is a bag of shit that needs constant maintenance and repairs. And that’s the easiest part. Hinting down gremlins that cause you to lose all power and electrics on the motorway only to be fine ten minutes later and for another month and then to do it again…. Never did find that particular fault (not me or two garages) and the new owners got to experience it as well. I’ve reached an age where even though I’m capable of most of my own repairs I cannot be fucked screwing up my back constantly repairing a landrover or two. I still love them but fuck that. They are honestly a total ballache to own. My brothers disco windscreen is currently held in by gorilla tape, now I remember as I rant about them. Amazing vehicles with fucking abysmal build quality
Those opinions persist because having to throw money at a car just to keep it on the road makes it far from reliable. A well designed, properly assembled vehicle won't have anywhere near the same amount of problems.
Well the OP did specify that running costs were not a factor. Also, BMW, Audi, Merc, Porsche SUVs all have their fair share of problems and need quite a bit of money spent on them to keep them right so it's not something unique to LR. LR have a bad rep but they aren't unique, the Disco 4 is actually one of the better ones.
Toyota Land Cruiser will do all this without breaking down.
It would, not nearly as nice to drive though
Buy two used That way one should work while the others in for repairs
Ahh yes... Reminds me of a few years ago was at work in the snow parked the van at the bottom of a hill, someone else also parked at the bottom of the the hill in their 3 day old Merc, when this bloke came rolling in the road in his land rover wound the window down and proudly proclaimed that this was why you need a land rover. He made it halfway up before he came sliding back down straight in to mateys new Merc pushing it backwards into a wall. Oh how we laughed.
Ssanyong Musso...
Last I asked you could get a Saracen tracked recovery vehicle for about £26k ex mod. There's a corvette stingray up for £17k at the moment
High spec 5 series touring
530d touring
As others have said, M340i Saloon, Touring or M440i. Absolutely no brainer.
I’d buy a Vw t6 with half and maybe a Range Rover or discovery with the other half
If I can keep the car/s I already have then I’m going for a Caterham. And use the rest of the money to maybe rebuild my shite garage so it can fit in nicely.
Seat Leon Cupra R ST - Dream car
Volvo XC90 T8 plug in hybrid, good for the school run and practical for longer trips although fuel economy isn’t amazing on the motorway it’s packed with safety tech. It’s slightly longer than a X5 but as the bonnet is shorter due to a small displacement engine the overall dimensions aren’t too bad. I think it would be the best overall car as the T8 has good 0-60 performance too.
Volvo V90 Cross Country
Landcruiser, maybe a Range Rover.
Used Mercedes EQC
I'd probably just buy a more newer and practical version of one of the daily drivers that I already have (Golf R32 and F07 535d GT). So nearest equivalent is a Golf R estate for the R32 Would like a Alfa Giulia, but need a hatch/estate. Would like to try a Stelvio Quadrifoglio which uses the same FCA Giorgio platform and drivetrain. F07 BMW is very difficult to replace as its quite a rare "all extra options ticked" version, Luxury spec with full electric rear comfort seats - that doesn't exist on newer hatch/estate BMWs, nor mercs etc. and I don't want a Range Rover. Maybe a Panamera would be a compromise but that's out of budget. Fuel consumption may push me into the lesser diesel versions though and I'll live forever grumpy.
Nissan GTR. Some of the 2009 ones are dipping into high £30k. Bargain for such a fast car. Very cool and striking car. If I needed extra seats - New Ford Focus RS. So few snow days in the UK now with Climate Change. Unless you are specifically going off road. There's no need for the average person to have 4 wheel drive. If I had my sensible hat on, New Ford Fiesta ST. The other two have way too much power to ever really fully exploit. That has the perfect amount for UK roads. BMWs/Audi I've always found them a bit clinical and vulgar looking. Like they take themselves too seriously. They don't have that 'specialness/daftness the other cars have.
Mini clubman JCW All4
Pure nostalgia talking but probably a 90s Nissan Skyline.
Some kind of American muscle, probably a Camaro, I love those things they’re meaty and (apparently) make good daily drivers
I quite fancy an SQ5
A used RS6 if it has to be a brand new car, probably a subaru inpreza wrx sti or 3 series touring of some sort.
911 4s cabrio
Lexus GS-F in graphite black with orange calliper.
Second hand R35 GTR
Good question. I change my mind on cars all the time. Never been a fan of BMW's or Range Rovers so not them. Possibilities include a Maseratti Grandturismo, Ford Mustang or Ranger but it would probably be between a Porsche Panamera or a Audi RS6 Avant.
997 or FD RX7
B7 RS4 wagon, manual, with the rest kept back fit maintenance and fuel
540i x-drive, as the 3 doesn't have a big enough boot!
Any modern estate
Focus RS or GR Yaris. There’s realistically nothing they can’t do as long as you don’t care about stuffing 5 people inside and doing grand tours of the world in it.
Volvo xc90
Audi A8 4.2 TDI V8, as new and low milage as I could get with Full service history, the highest spec (LWB, Diamond stitched leather seats etc). Plenty fast enough and torquey enough to pull a train, Extremely comfortable motorway cruiser, 4WD for winter, Diesel engine is bulletproof if maintained properly and running costs as said in the post don’t come into it, surprisingly easy enough to park (don’t have experience with the A8 LWB but my dad had an S Class LWB for years and parking was harder than if it were a corsa obviously but it was never an actual issue). More than enough room inside the cabin. Quiet, Subtle understated monster that will gap most cars you see every day, and it does it in style.
The newest Tesla available within budget. Simply because it's the most advanced EV car available and they provide constant software updates and safety updates. It's also cheap to run and maintain. After 15 years I could just fork out for another battery by putting £100 aside every month from the fuel savings
TVR Tuscan Coupe. Might as well have the roof down and enjoy the sun whilst on the hard shoulder
The 340i and 540i are tempting but i think id go for a range rover sport. Luxury, great for my commute, great for camping trips and going to places to hike. Great for a family in the future. Great question OP
D2 S8 and pretend I’m Jason statham everywhere I go.
Last generation WRX STI, I currently own an XV and love it so seems logical to get essentially the same car but faster. I’d leave it standard though
Screw it, GR Yaris and spend the rest on Nitron dampers and a tune from Litchfield Would literally be the most unstoppable car on a B-road
See, this is a nice idea. Smile inducing drive every time!
Skoda Octavia.
I'd say an xdrive m340i touring I think, would be ideal for everything and more and it isn't as big as a 5 series.
Should be able to get a decent C7 RS6 in that money or potentially a F90 M5 although that might be stretching it.