The reason I liked the original show is because numpty Brewer would go and buy something interesting but also risky. Brewer was the 5 year old car buyer within me, trying to buy a TVR on the cheap, telling everyone it would be alright, while my dad (Ed China) would be the voice of experience and reason (and inevitably have to fix it).
They often chose cars I have always wanted to buy but have been too scared, due to known issues and expensive parts. Watching Ed overcome these obstacles reignited my passion in spannering and cars in general. Recently the show has been a poor facsimile of its original self (the US episodes don't do anything for me either), so I think Ed has made the right decision.
Off to see if I can pickup a Cerbera for mere peanuts.