So need something more practical than the S2000..

Lord-Jaffa · 4 Jul 2010 at 22:58

Need to start considering options after the summer for something thats more practical (ie. has back seats!). Should be slightly cheaper overall to run than the S2000 (including insurance). So looking at peoples opinions, what I don't want is a large barge, fairly keen on something fast and sporty still, with more creature comforts such as cruise control, nice seats etc. Looking at around 10-11k budget.

Having only really started looking today ive seen a 07 Focus ST-3 that seems to tick the boxes for 11k, although im worried this will feel like a severe downgrade to the S2000.

Lord-Jaffa · 4 Jul 2010 at 23:23

Should have said, don't want anything older than 3-4 years!

Lord-Jaffa · 5 Jul 2010 at 10:31

pwduncan said:
Mazda RX-8?

No!

As for Mondeo, I was actually considering the ST220, although I feel it might be slightly too lardy!

Lord-Jaffa · 5 Jul 2010 at 16:32

MikeHiow said:
Why is the RX8 out of the question? I think this would be the closest you'd get to the practicality you seek with the least amount of sacrifice. I will say, at least test drive one.

Failing that, the ST really is a ridiculously brilliant car. An S2000 is unlikely to be able to shake an ST on the road, yet you can easily get four bicycles in the back at the same time, whilst being in comfort for the journey.

The ST isn't as fun as an RX8 or S2000, but its almost (if not just) as capable with the added practicality and comfort.

RX8 is out of the question, reliability issues, drinking oil and 17mpg puts it out of the question!

Lord-Jaffa · 5 Jul 2010 at 16:33

Begbie said:
Have you driven one, I've not driven the ST but the Ghia X it doesn't feel too bloaty.

Could be worth a drive, before dissmissing it totally.

Yeah ill definatly be testing one out, Id prefer a smaller car which is why the Focus is more desirable to me at the moment, but I wont dismiss it untill ive tried a few.

Lord-Jaffa · 5 Jul 2010 at 18:10

Simon said:
I don't think who ever was driving the S2000 is very capable, there is no way an ST would keep up with a well driven one - especially on B roads.

We regularly drive a route after work to the gym, the S2000 has a massive advantage in both braking and traction out of corners.

I'm sure the OP is happy making this compromise though as he will gain the ability to carry 4 passengers.

Or 2 1/2, as the case maybe! :eek:

Im going to check some out over this month and see what sort of value can be had, I don't HAVE to make my mind up for the next six months, but summer months the S2000 has its highest selling price, which is something I will have to consider. If it was upto me I wouldn't change at all, but I have no desire to run two cars, so I have to make the sacrifice for something a little larger (with similar running costs or lower).

Oh I do around 150miles a week (work), however I do make a few long journeys a year, motorway comfort would be quite nice as im not getting any younger! Mondeo ST220 seems a nice option.

I would look at 330i's and such but Im not sure I could get one as new as I would like for the budget!