View Full Version : Treated myself to a new car today
That's the ones Grant.... sure to keep you dry....:D
Sounds like you're speaking from experience! :eek: :lol:
;)
Marco.
Actually you are quite right Marco I DO like a bit of excitment in my life which is why I also own a motor bike which gives me all the thrills I need so I don't need an exiting car so much...
Yeah, I get that... Just pulling your (wee) leg! ;)
Marco.
Actually you are quite right Marco I DO like a bit of excitment in my life which is why I also own a motor bike which gives me all the thrills I need so I don't need an exiting car so much... certianly my old e-class diesel is not exciting it is just 100% reliable and a solid old beast... so the next car will be the same but just more economical which I'd get a kick out of.... pretty much paying NOTHING to keep it on the road... :D
Me Too! yesterday I had an Iced Lolly :eyebrows:
walpurgis
25-04-2015, 22:16
Super-economical is BORING though. Marco.
Wrong there I reckon Marco. I've always found good little cars a complete hoot to drive, especially around town.
I really don't like medium sized family saloons (Mondeo sized jobs). They are boring. I like sports (sporty?) cars, big cars and tiny cars. Anything else is not for me (apart from maybe a good 4x4).
Ninanina
25-04-2015, 22:19
Sounds like you're speaking from experience! :eek: :lol:
;)
Marco.
Well not quite I am not THAT old you know.... :D
Ninanina
25-04-2015, 22:22
Yeah, I get that... Just pulling your (wee) leg! ;)
Marco.
How do you know I have a WEE leg Marco ?? It's uncanny... as I do have very short legs which is why I had to choose my motorbike with care so I can touch the ground.....It ruled out so many nice bikes.... :D I'm a real 'short-arse'..... :doh:
walpurgis
25-04-2015, 22:29
I'm a real 'short-arse'..... :doh:
Join the club! :lol:
Wrong there I reckon Marco. I've always found good little cars a complete hoot to drive, especially around town.
I really don't like medium sized family saloons (Mondeo sized jobs). They are boring. I like sports (sporty?) cars, big cars and tiny cars. Anything else is not for me (apart from maybe a good 4x4).
Yeah, mate, I know where you're coming from and agree. Being quite a big chap though, 6ft 2ins, 15 stone, little cars and I don't really get on!
Marco.
Ninanina
25-04-2015, 22:31
Join the club! :lol:
It's a real pain isn't it Geoff?? I have had to rule out so many nice bikes because of it... I think I have a long body but short-arse legs... :D
How do you know I have a WEE leg Marco ?? It's uncanny...
Call it an educated guess... I'm also guessing that you have more than one! :D
Marco.
I have short legs too......like Ernie :eek: even shorter these days alas.
Ninanina
25-04-2015, 22:35
Call it an educated guess... I'm also guessing that you have more than one! :D
Marco.
Yes I have two at the last count..... both really short though.... :D
Excellent. I amaze myself sometimes with my powers of deduction! :eyebrows:
Marco.
Ninanina
25-04-2015, 22:42
Excellent. I amaze myself sometimes with my powers of deduction! :eyebrows:
Marco.
You are a clever chap Marco...... :rfl:
hifilover
26-04-2015, 10:46
Went out in the E63 650i this morning; wow!
This particular car is not for me as he's simply not looked after it! It had just been 'washed' but it'd dried on route and was still filthy and swirl-mark galore!
The interior looked like my cats litter box etc...
But what a superb drive, fantastic handling and the V8 growl from this block is amazing (he's had Eisenmann back-boxes fitted)!
I'll deffo be keeping my eyes peeled for one of these and have asked the guys at Bowker to do the same for me :)
Audi S8 tomorrow afternoon!
You're like me, mate. I don't buy used cars unless they're near-mint! I also can't stand driving a dirty car, and if the inside is manky, it's a total no-no. Worst is when some filthy smoker has had it before, and you can still smell their stale fag ash {heave}... :spew:
You could eat your dinner off of the floor in my car! ;) I like to have that 'new car feel', inside and out, every time I get behind the wheel. Keeping shiny black cars continually spotless (from the outside), though, is a challenge, as you see every bit of dust and watermark....
Anyway, hope that the S8 hits the spot for you tomorrow :cool:
Marco.
hifilover
26-04-2015, 15:46
The S8's sold unfortunately, been collected today but I'm not upset, it was and will still be an outside contender
Yes, must have for me is an immaculate car; people can't understand why but when they see my cars they then know!
Clean inside, clean outside! simples...
A lot of the guys on the USA Bimmerforums and UK BMW forums we're massively impressed with my 'for sale' ad for my E38 that it's set precedent now over in the States and they use it as the main template haha... Pictures of EVERYTHING, bullet pointed information re all work done and mods/maintenance carried out etc...
It's the only way IMO
Anyways; off to wash the wifes car cos she's a dirty moo ;)
What's wrong with *her* washing it, then? Is she a LAZY moo, too? :eyebrows: ;)
Yeah, it's the same here when folk sell hi-fi equipment... Loads of ads without decent pictures, out of focus, etc, (or sometimes even any, until we kick their arse for it), kit as dusty as a very dusty thing, photographed with their old pants lying in the background, no prices, spelling mistakes galore - ebay ads are very often the same!
It's about putting in the required effort and showing you care. After all, if YOU don't appear to value what you're selling, how can you expect someone else to value it enough to want to buy it??
Marco.
hifilover
29-04-2015, 13:51
So...
Bit of a curve ball but went out in a Chrysler 300C wagon yesterday with the Hemi block :D
Wow.. Felt like a kid in a sweet shop with its US sourced exhaust system and intake etc... Was on 22" alloys as well, stunning but far too big so would be best if it were on 20" alloys IMO
Just the interiors shite and plasticky... Not sure if I could live with that...
Off to see a Jag XFR 5.0 V8 supercharged on Friday, it's pushing my budget by £5k but it could be a consideration, I have that to hand but not sure if that's what I really want to spend seeing as we're in the midst of doing the hallway, stairs and landing and about the do the 4 bedrooms as well (bloody houses) !!!
I so want this though: http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/2015-Jaguar-XF-XF-5-0-V8-Supercharged-Xfr-s-5Dr-Auto-Not-Specified-Automatic/161675378863?_trksid=p2047675.c100005.m1851&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIC.MBE%26ao%3D1%2 6asc%3D20140122125356%26meid%3D27325481727446a6b4b 1577b1d7c3a33%26pid%3D100005%26rk%3D2%26rkt%3D6%26 sd%3D381197652757&rt=nc
Just need to rob the local NatWest haha ;)
Nice, but apart from the engine (and it is a nice engine), I don't think it looks any nicer than my Brabby - and that didn't cost £70k! ;)
Marco.
hifilover
29-04-2015, 14:35
Horses for courses but I'd rather have the Jag any day... Plus it burns with clean smoke ;)
Lol... You have an obsession with that! I chose a diesel car on purpose, shweety, because I love the TORQUE of the big turbo ones. It makes equivalent petrol engines feel positively flaccid!! :ner:
*PLUS*, diesels are more economical, the engines last longer, and they retain their value more!
Yes, I suppose if someone offered me the Jag, I'd take it. I'd need to drive it first, though.
The problem I have with it is that you're paying WAY over the odds for (an outdated) badge. Like hi-fi buying, I like to maximise the 'bang' I get for my buck, and as nice as that Jag is, it doesn't tick (for me) that very important box. I could think of much better ways of spending £70k on car.
In other news, I ordered some of this today: https://www.merlinmotorsport.co.uk/p/red-line-85-plus-diesel-enhancer-355ml-70802
Will report back what it's like compared with my usual Millers :)
Marco.
hifilover
29-04-2015, 15:12
Haha I'm only pulling your 'wankel' - I do respect the power that diesels can put down but have never needed to buy one as I do 2-3k miles a year...
Even my wifes Focus 1.8 diesel isn't fairing well as she does similar to work and back; we'll soon be sorting that though and getting her a nice little petrol engine car!
I've been getting Sainsburys Premium (10p off vouchers etc) and Shell VPower (I'm still part of the VPower club and get vouchers through the post etc) recently in my V6 and it's certainly running smoother but over 3 full tanks and using the IPK, fuel economy hasn't changed much at all and I've ragged it silly on every tank full too, just in case ;)
It'll be getting it Terraclean'd I think soon as well, a garage I know well used the system so I'll get mates rates but it'll be the first V6 they've had (had mainly diesels through). Be interesting to see how it fairs!
I've been getting Sainsburys Premium (10p off vouchers etc) and Shell VPower (I'm still part of the VPower club and get vouchers through the post etc) recently in my V6 and it's certainly running smoother but over 3 full tanks and using the IPK, fuel economy hasn't changed much at all and I've ragged it silly on every tank full too, just in case ;)
Thing is, you don't run a V6 3-litre engine (or larger) if you're too worried about fuel economy... If that's the case, buy a smaller car.
I use V-Power Nitro+ diesel (and BP Ultimate) primarily because it increases the performance of my car's engine, and makes it run smoother. I simply wouldn't use anything else, as I can feel the downgrade in performance straight away. Supermarket fuel is utter shit, so I don't care how cheap it is!
Here's one... Do you have a Gulf station anywhere near you?
If so, give their fuel a go. It's somewhat of a 'left-field' choice, but I've done some research on it. It's really good stuff and not as expensive as V-Power. I've tried Gulf diesel in the Brabby, and for me, it's as good as V-Power, if not better - and it's cheaper! See what you think if you have a station near you.
It'll be getting it Terraclean'd I think soon as well, a garage I know well used the system so I'll get mates rates but it'll be the first V6 they've had (had mainly diesels through). Be interesting to see how it fairs!
I think you'll like it. For me, it's a no-brainer, as the gains are considerable. As such, I'd do it to every used car I bought, simply as a matter of course :)
Marco.
hifilover
29-04-2015, 15:32
Nope; no Gulf station close to me but the Sainsburys is .5miles away and the Shell is on the way to/from training etc...
I don't give 2 hoots re economy ;)
See where you're nearest one is: http://retail.gulfoil.co.uk/find/
if you ever find yourself in the area, give their petrol a go and let me know what you think :)
Marco.
Apart from other stuff I've read, what got me intrigued with Gulf fuel was this: http://retail.gulfoil.co.uk/package/premier-fuels/
At the top end we have our specialist fuel, Endurance 102: a premium grade, higher-octane fuel which is used at Silverstone, the home of British motor racing.
I suspect that there's a little 'trickle-down technology' going on, so that even their 'ordinary' fuels benefit :) That certainly seems to be what my engine is telling me.... Interesting discussion here: http://www.lancerregister.com/showthread.php?t=446508
For petrol poofs, lol, 'Endurance 102' is 102 ron!! :eek:
Marco.
icehockeyboy
30-04-2015, 11:43
Can't help but think the cost of the rims and tyres are going to be dearer than what the car cost to buy in the first place....
Which car are you talking about, Craig? :)
Marco.
hifilover
30-04-2015, 13:24
Can't help but think the cost of the rims and tyres are going to be dearer than what the car cost to buy in the first place....
That's modifications for you ;)
Indeed....
I thought there was about £10k's worth of Brabus mods on my Mercedes. Having found a website that has the individual prices listed of every single Brabus bit on my car, it came to just shy of £15k - and that's not including the price of the car as standard!! :eek:
Marco.
icehockeyboy
30-04-2015, 13:50
Which car are you talking about, Craig? :)
Marco.
The OP Bimmer. 😀
Ah I see... That's history now.
Marco.
hifilover
30-04-2015, 18:48
Got home this afternoon and my ZT V6's water pump shat itself haha :D
Time to spend £500 and get the big job done to it (belts, tensioner, water pump, gaskets, oil/filter, coolant, O rings, thermostat etc...)
Thankfully I've a decent mobile Land Rover specialist mechanic that'll come and do it on my drive!
Bloody cars ;)
The joys of motoring, eh? Hope you get it fixed soon! :)
Marco.
hifilover
30-04-2015, 21:13
Aye it'll be sorted... Will pootle around in the wife's diesel...
So tempted to go to my pal and get on the dyno & chipped ;)
You're like me - you can't leave anything 'standard'...... :eyebrows:
Marco.
walpurgis
30-04-2015, 21:34
You're like me - you can't leave anything 'standard'...... :eyebrows:
Marco.
That is a point Marco. Instead of buying a car, then spending a fortune 'upgrading' it. Why not buy one that has everything you want in the first place? :)
Lol... I guess because you can upgrade it in your own way, rather than how someone else has decided the car should be, and thus make it bespoke and personal to you :)
I love the fact that the chances of me seeing a car on the road exactly the same as mine are virtually nil. Also, it's not me that's spent a fortune upgrading it. That was down to the guy that had it before me!
Marco.
walpurgis
30-04-2015, 22:23
Ah, that's a better option. Let somebody else sort it.
I used to do my own. As you may know. I spent many years building and enjoying 'hot' BL Minis half a lifetime ago. Then I bought an Alfa and wondered why I'd bothered to an extent, 'cos the Alfa was bloody good. Quick, smooth and quiet, but with a wicked rasping howl when the windows were down. OK it didn't have quite the go-kart handling. But it cost me peanuts compared to the dosh I'd laid out on wheels, paintwork, suspension, engine and instrumentation goodies previously on the Minis. Not to mention the huge amount of hours put in.
Ali Tait
01-05-2015, 04:37
There is definitely something about Alfas, or at least there used to be..
Yeah, Alfas have always been special, and to a degree they still are - a real drivers car. They've got SOUL, man! :smoking:
Marco.
Ali Tait
01-05-2015, 06:52
Indeed :-)
Some lovely Alfa's at the Duxford meet last week Ali, the Brera is one stunning car...a few for sale, insanely low prices for a lot of car....
http://www.alfaworkshop.co.uk/images/60-3-800.jpg
Ali Tait
01-05-2015, 11:10
Yep they are gorgeous, but have a GM V6 lump in them - the purists threw their hands up in horror!
They are a heavy car too..
Yep they are gorgeous, but have a GM V6 lump in them - the purists threw their hands up in horror!
They are a heavy car too..
Yes even the Prodrive version did not manage to lose much weight. - Drives nice though :-)
And you better hope that the timing chain on the V6 does not need attention!! We've replaced a few, and it's definitely a job for the specialist.
All the fun of owning an 'Alfa' LOL...yes the purists argue the 75 was the last 'true' Alfa :scratch: I'll stick to my Sud Sprint and GTV6 :D
All the fun of owning an 'Alfa' LOL...yes the purists argue the 75 was the last 'true' Alfa :scratch: I'll stick to my Sud Sprint and GTV6 :D
Which GTV6? the Alfetta type with the 12 valve engine, or the later 916 with the 24 valve? I prefer the earlier one, and have an Alfetta GTV2000 amongst my collection.
Ali Tait
01-05-2015, 11:51
My favourite was my 164. Less refined than the 166, but more fun to drive.
Which GTV6? the Alfetta type with the 12 valve engine, or the later 916 with the 24 valve? I prefer the earlier one, and have an Alfetta GTV2000 amongst my collection.
The Alfetta, 1983...it's a none runner though and needs a lot of TLC....it's my next project..
hifilover
01-05-2015, 12:17
I love AR's but not brave enough to own one... Know too many folk that have had issues with theirs :(
Ali Tait
01-05-2015, 13:06
I've had three and all have been great.
Picking up a Brera or GT later in the year.
Set on a Brera then read a few articles on Alfaowners forum about "more refined but less soul" and the Brera being a hit of a lump.
Chris Harris of Autocar hated it initially, then on the later version he chose a lower spec over the V6, saying it was quite nose heavy.
Unless you have 19" telephone dial rims on the Brera, the GTs a nicer looking car imo, though that Brera front end..:eek:
Ali Tait
01-05-2015, 16:58
How about the Spider...
Ali Tait
01-05-2015, 16:59
Good thing if you go the GT route though is you can go for the 3.2 Busso. Yeah baby..
A few V6' GT's around the web, good price too.
Do-able. :)
walpurgis
01-05-2015, 17:08
Always fancied a late Sud Sprint. 1.7 16v boxer.
Picking up a Brera or GT later in the year.
Set on a Brera then read a few articles on Alfaowners forum about "more refined but less soul" and the Brera being a hit of a lump.
Chris Harris of Autocar hated it initially, then on the later version he chose a lower spec over the V6, saying it was quite nose heavy.
Unless you have 19" telephone dial rims on the Brera, the GTs a nicer looking car imo, though that Brera front end..:eek:
Go for it Gary, they look stunning in the flesh and I reckon it will handle just fine for us mere mortals ;)
We where seriously tempted by the ones for sale last weekend...
Always fancied a late Sud Sprint. 1.7 16v boxer.
Problem is they are all getting on a bit and the Sud 'quality' was never quite there despite the improvements over the years, also the 1.7 was a bit much for the chassis without some suspension mods. The other issue is finding a good one! We bought our 1350 back in 1987 and it already had quite a lot of major body work done to it, they simply rusted away from the inside out, the original soluble car LOL! In the end we ended up having a full strip down to the bare shell, repair and re spray....20 years on she's done really well, probably down to the several gallons of wax oil I filled it with! However, there are signs appearing that something will need to be done in the next few years...such is the way with old Alfas! :D
walpurgis
01-05-2015, 21:54
Yes, I know the score with old Alfas. It's an ongoing challenge. Still fancy one though, that little flat four engine was a treat.
Go for it Geoff, no 1.7 listed but great to have a look: http://www.carandclassic.co.uk/list/1/alfasud/
There is one very special one on there that's not immediately obvious...prices are climbing daily!
In other news, I ordered some of this today: https://www.merlinmotorsport.co.uk/p/red-line-85-plus-diesel-enhancer-355ml-70802
Will report back what it's like compared with my usual Millers :)
Well, the Red Line diesel enhancer arrived today, and I poured the contents of the bottle into the fuel tank (80% full), and took the car for a run to the Wirral (about a 35-40 minute journey).....
WOW! With no other variables in the equation, other than the introduction of the Red Line, the engine had noticeably more responsiveness and 'zip', and also seemed to want to rev harder than before. Overall engine smoothness was better, too. Mid-range 'punch' was also improved, so that when you hit the sweet-spot of the power band, the car just pulled like a train, with fiercely fast acceleration - loadsa fun!! :D
In my opinion, certainly with this car, the Red Line is much better than the Millers I normally use, or indeed any other type of diesel treatment I've tried before. As such, I'll now be using it regularly, most likely along with Gulf diesel, which in the Brabby creates a hugely potent cocktail, and combines to deliver mentalist levels of driving excitement.
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/537/tZB5yj.jpg
Highly recommended! :thumbsup:
Marco.
walpurgis
01-05-2015, 22:33
Go for it Geoff, no 1.7 listed but great to have a look: http://www.carandclassic.co.uk/list/1/alfasud/
There is one very special one on there that's not immediately obvious...prices are climbing daily!
Yes, I know prices are zooming. As they are for all (post?) classic cars.
Trouble is I have three motors at the moment and don't have space for anything else currently. In a few months maybe. but I might have to satisfy my hankering for something else first.
Going down to ATS today to replace these 'dodgy' Accelera tyres (which came with the car, but offer next to no proper grip in the wet):
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/661/X2KL8q.jpg
...with some Pirelli P-Zero Corsas, as shown on this YouTube vid:
I-jrSRqdDvE
Actually, it probably shows them better here:
5Spi8015zC0
They're about as close to proper race tyres as you can get for a road car, and are said to improve acceleration, although exactly how, I'm not sure. Looking forward to driving the car though, after they've been fitted, and giving it some stick! :eyebrows:
Marco.
Far too much tread to be close to a race tyre, unless you are comparing them to a set of wets. :ner:
Lol, yes indeed. However, it's about as close as you'll get. And I'm not driving around at 150mph, just to warm the tyres up to get some grip!! :D
Once the front tyres need replacing (currently Avon ZZ5s), they'll be replaced with the same Pirellis, and the car will be ready for the track... ;)
Marco.
I currently have Yokohama A048Rs fitted.
Road legal semi slicks & crap in the wet.
Ali Tait
11-06-2015, 11:47
Pirellis have by far the worst wet grip I've had from a tyre. Good in the dry though.
Interesting, Ali. Can't say I've experienced the same on any of the Mercs I've had - quite the opposite, in fact (and I've had P-Zeros on all of them) :)
However, the new Corsa system is their top model, so that might be different again. It's costing me the best part of £500 for two tyres! :eek:
In general, my only criticism of Pirellis is that they tend to wear quicker than other brands of premium tyres, which is probably a side-effect of them being a little softer (and that's one of the things that gives you the grip).
Marco.
Worst i e ever usex in wet were michelin...best were goodyear. pirelli in middle
Was that for this:
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/538/26QBjc.jpg
Thing is, what kind of 'wet' are we talking about? :eyebrows: ;)
Marco.
Ali Tait
11-06-2015, 13:03
Interesting, Ali. Can't say I've experienced the same on any of the Mercs I've had - quite the opposite, in fact (and I've had P-Zeros on all of them) :)
However, the new Corsa system is their top model, so that might be different again. It's costing me the best part of £500 for two tyres! :eek:
In general, my only criticism of Pirellis is that they tend to wear quicker than other brands of premium tyres, which is probably a side-effect of them being a little softer (and that's one of the things that gives you the grip).
Marco.
Found that both on my Alfa and the X Type, which is 4WD. Grip in the wet was abysmal..
Maybe it's a car thing then, mate? Dunno... Like I said, on Mercs, with P-Zeros, I've found the grip, both dry and wet, to be superb. Only the wear factor lets them down, but that's a price I'm willing to pay for their 'sporty' performance.
The car doesn't get used that much anyway. These days, I'll be lucky if I do 6K a year :)
The P-Zeros were the 2015 test winner in Sport Auto. Check out the results: http://www.pirelli.com/tyres/en-gb/car/find-your-tyres/test-results/summer/pzero-sportauto-2015-03
Marco.
Ali Tait
11-06-2015, 13:30
T'wasn't braking that was the problem, it was the back end stepping out on roundabouts in the wet...
Go slower then, lol ;)
Seriously though, we've obviously just had different experiences.
Marco.
Audio Advent
11-06-2015, 14:01
As an aside, how can one have grip problems with any non-defective tyre when driving sensibly?
Sounds to me people might get used to super-grip from fancy tyres and then unable to adjust their driving back to another tyre type. Have to drive not only for the conditions but for the equipment. But if you're staying away from the limits of your tyre's grip because you know where that is, then I can't see anyone will have a problem and if they do, it's less down to the tyre..
As an aside, how can one have grip problems with any non-defective tyre when driving sensibly?
Try using any of the current 'budget' tyre ranges, from the likes of Landsail, Accelera, Nankang, Jinyu etc, when going round roundabouts in the wet, at anything other than a snail's pace, and you'll see what happens to your car's back end, Sam! ;)
The rubber they use on these budget tyres is so hard that it hardly provides any grip. That's the problem - especially when you've got a rear wheel-driven car that develops 330bhp [with tons of torque], and flies off with only a small blip of the accelerator! :eyebrows:
In anything other than bone-dry road conditions, such tyres are shit. A dangerous and complete false economy.
Marco.
Was that for this:
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/538/26QBjc.jpg
Thing is, what kind of 'wet' are we talking about? :eyebrows: ;)
Marco.
Almost, but that has a spoiler on it.
What type of wet? Anything more than damp. :scratch:
That post was aimed at Grant, daftee. We have an 'in joke' about wee! :eyebrows:
Just back from having the Pirellis fitted, and feeling considerably poorer, lol... Took the car for a spin on the Wrexham by-pass (dual carriageway) and the in-car ambient noise level is definitely less, due to significantly reduced road noise/drag, plus the ride feels smoother, so that's an immediate plus.
They also look rather nicer than the other tyres: more 'business like', if you will. I shall see how the wet grip has improved, on the first day it rains. I'll also be monitoring fuel economy, as increased levels are to be expected after having fitted better tyres. I also had the Nitrogen air inflation topped up on all the tyres. None were any more than one psi out.
Took out ATS 'Mastercare' tyre warranty again, for these new ones, as it's well worth it (in the even of a puncture, they come out and repair it for you, or if necessary replace the tyre free of charge, and tow you to the nearest ATS, to have that done): http://www.atseuromaster.co.uk/tyres/tyre-warranty
Job's a good 'un! :cool:
Marco.
kirstysdad
11-06-2015, 17:05
Just a quick wee interjection into all this flacid penis flashing.
Current favourite tyres are Good Year Efficient Grip Performance, esp in the wet...
Lol - which Goodyears are they, Sandy?
I rate Goodyears highly, on the VFM stakes, as indeed I do Avon. You get a lot for your money with both of those brands :)
Marco.
The same as I have on the arse end of my BMW.
Really good grip in the wet, efficient due to low rolling resistance, and pretty quiet too.
kirstysdad
11-06-2015, 17:36
I do about 20k miles a year in all weathers, so does my wife so they're on both (old) cars. I agree that cheap tyres are a false economy- I put expensive tyres on cheap cars because its safer, better fun and is cheaper in the long run. I used to swear by Contis until I went over to the GoodYears a few years ago.
The Efficient Grips last well, and were well reviewed in Auto Express, 1st place in 2012 and only narrowly second in 2014-15.
http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/accessories-tyres/88483/goodyear-efficientgrip-performance-tyre-review
kirstysdad
11-06-2015, 17:39
The same as I have on the arse end of my BMW.
Really good grip in the wet, efficient due to low rolling resistance, and pretty quiet too.
They are quiet, I forgot that, even on my wife's old Octavia which suffers from road noise usually.
Ali Tait
11-06-2015, 17:44
As an aside, how can one have grip problems with any non-defective tyre when driving sensibly?
Sounds to me people might get used to super-grip from fancy tyres and then unable to adjust their driving back to another tyre type. Have to drive not only for the conditions but for the equipment. But if you're staying away from the limits of your tyre's grip because you know where that is, then I can't see anyone will have a problem and if they do, it's less down to the tyre..
So you just automatically assume I drive like an idiot?
kirstysdad
11-06-2015, 18:40
So you just automatically assume I drive like an idiot?
Where's the economic sense in driving so well within a tyre's limits? There's fun to be had wringing some grip out of even a poor tyre.
As for driving like an idiot, what rips my knitting is folk in fast, well handling cars who drive everywhere at 42mph, including towns, braking for the slightest bend, oncoming traffic and only speeding up when I try to overtake them (make progress) in my clapped out Focus...:steam:
Good, glad to get that out of the way.
Ali Tait
11-06-2015, 19:00
Yep, can relate to that.. :-)
kirstysdad
11-06-2015, 19:03
Yep, can relate to that.. :-)
Ba' heids!
Was that for this:
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/538/26QBjc.jpg
Thing is, what kind of 'wet' are we talking about? :eyebrows: ;)
Marco.
Yep, just like mine.:eyebrows: I have lent it to the lass next door as she has been struggling with walking. She is pleased
Yep, just like mine.:eyebrows: I have lent it to the lass next door as she has been struggling with walking. She is pleased
and yes it has a drain valve:ner:
I do about 20k miles a year in all weathers, so does my wife so they're on both (old) cars. I agree that cheap tyres are a false economy- I put expensive tyres on cheap cars because its safer, better fun and is cheaper in the long run. I used to swear by Contis until I went over to the GoodYears a few years ago.
The Efficient Grips last well, and were well reviewed in Auto Express, 1st place in 2012 and only narrowly second in 2014-15.
http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/accessories-tyres/88483/goodyear-efficientgrip-performance-tyre-review
Yup as I said to Marco, I used to drive 400/500 miles a day and goodies were always the best tyres up here in the wetlands
Ali Tait
11-06-2015, 20:13
I find Nokians very good
Falkens also tend to get a good rep at the budget/mid price point :)
Marco.
Ali Tait
11-06-2015, 20:59
Yep, good tyres too.
Ba' heids!
Bawbags, meir like! ;)
Marco.
Audio Advent
11-06-2015, 23:07
So you just automatically assume I drive like an idiot?
Nope. But maybe if you're still loosing grip whilst driving sensibly, the car isn't really for you! :lol:
Audio Advent
11-06-2015, 23:15
Try using any of the current 'budget' tyre ranges, from the likes of Landsail, Accelera, Nankang, Jinyu etc, when going round roundabouts in the wet, at anything other than a snail's pace, and you'll see what happens to your car's back end, Sam! ;)
The rubber they use on these budget tyres is so hard that it hardly provides any grip. That's the problem - especially when you've got a rear wheel-driven car that develops 330bhp [with tons of torque], and flies off with only a small blip of the accelerator! :eyebrows:
In anything other than bone-dry road conditions, such tyres are shit. A dangerous and complete false economy.
Marco.
Well.... 330bhp on rear wheel drive is a bit daft and unnecessary in my view. Unless of course you actually intend to be loosing grip and drive the car about like being on a track day.
I've always used the cheaper brands on my older shitty cars and had no problems whatsoever on any road or weather condition, other than when I let the tread wear too much and driving through standing water on the M6 - scary floating feeling! Got them changed the next day. I agree a false economy if you do a lot of miles but only for tyre wear and deteration of performance because of that wear.
I have a Saab Aero estate - more torque than a Subaru WRX on to the front wheels. Have no problems with grip unless I'm being stupid for the road. Obviously rear-wheel drive is different but then that simply requires a combo of more skill and more caution.
walpurgis
11-06-2015, 23:22
Rear wheel drive is a sight easier to cope with than front wheel drive when you're 'on the limit'. Lose traction with front wheel drive in a bend and you can end up pointing in all sorts of directions unless you really know what you're about. Rear wheel dive is more predictable and controllable (power on, tail out, loads of opposite lock. Just don't let a copper see you). Mind you, either can kill you if you don't know what you're doing.
Always prefered a rear wheel drive in winter; as Geoff says much easier to predict and control once youve been there a few times. usually need to add a bit of weight to the boot though lol.
walpurgis
11-06-2015, 23:37
Always prefered a rear wheel drive in winter; as Geoff says much easier to predict and control once youve been there a few times. usually need to add a bit of weight to the boot though lol.
No. That just upsets the car's balance. The only exception I can think of was the old 3.0L Ford Capri, which was really 'nose happy', mind you it was a lot of fun sideways.
It helps get up hills in the snow up here in the wilderness. lol. My town is built on the run off of a volcano(extinct fortunately) and some of the hills are steep and also start from a tight bend at the bottom. A truck spring over each axle makes a huge difference...or a couple of slabs do at a pinch. Fortunately I live at the bottom end of the town now so dont have the same problem now.
Audio Advent
12-06-2015, 00:10
Rear wheel drive is a sight easier to cope with than front wheel drive when you're 'on the limit'. Lose traction with front wheel drive in a bend and you can end up pointing in all sorts of directions unless you really know what you're about. Rear wheel dive is more predictable and controllable (power on, tail out, loads of opposite lock. Just don't let a copper see you). Mind you, either can kill you if you don't know what you're doing.
I'll take that! Yes, takes more skill to drive my front wheel drive car :) Seems to me though that people are more likely to go crazy with a rear-wheel drive car because "it's fun" (which no doubt it is).
Ali Tait
12-06-2015, 05:16
Nope. But maybe if you're still loosing grip whilst driving sensibly, the car isn't really for you! :lol:
Considering the fact that I've owned two 3.0 V6 Alfas and a 3.0 V6 X Type in the recent past, and further considering I've had no grip problems whatsoever with any of them with other tyres fitted, that would tend to point to the tyres being crap.
Oh and by the way, given I've been working on site for the last 30 years all over the UK, averaging around 50k a year, I'd say I have more experience than most on here at driving. Not a single accident either in that time.
It's losing BTW, not "loosing".
Ali Tait
12-06-2015, 05:21
Rear wheel drive is a sight easier to cope with than front wheel drive when you're 'on the limit'. Lose traction with front wheel drive in a bend and you can end up pointing in all sorts of directions unless you really know what you're about. Rear wheel dive is more predictable and controllable (power on, tail out, loads of opposite lock. Just don't let a copper see you). Mind you, either can kill you if you don't know what you're doing.
Don't agree, fwd is much easier for the average driver with no skid training to cope with, most folk find understeer much easier to cope with as it will correct itself when you remove your foot from the gas. I daresay most would find oversteer much more frightning.
Much better in snow too IMHO.
The difference between FWD and RWD is that in a FWD car, you directly see the tree that kills you. In a RWD car, it's only a reflection in your mirror.
kirstysdad
12-06-2015, 08:06
Bawbags, meir like! ;)
Marco.
As a newbie I was being polite... :eek:
Shropshire is full of them- retirees with bifocal windscreens! Mind you, I do wear glasses and I am bifocal curious...:rolleyes:
Well.... 330bhp on rear wheel drive is a bit daft and unnecessary in my view. Unless of course you actually intend to be loosing grip and drive the car about like being on a track day.
Daft? Lol... I guess it is, but (combined with 760Nm of torque) it sure is a helluva lot of FUN!! :D
Like Ali has said, the 'losing grip' thing is 100% to do with the tyres, not the driver.
In my case, it only happens in the wet, going round some roundabouts, at any sort of reasonable speed (where the back-end drifts), if I've got cheap rear tyres fitted [and I'm far from alone in that respect - 1000s of other drivers have reported the same thing, if you read online reports on tyre review sites], and in Ali's case, when Pirellis are 'mixed with Alfa', as it were.
Remove those particular variables and all is fine. The telling thing will be when in the wet I compare the Accelera tyres I had before, with the Pirellis I've just fitted. No skidding round the same roundabouts at the same speed, will mean problem solved, simples! :)
Marco.
As a newbie I was being polite... :eek:
Shropshire is full of them- retirees with bifocal windscreens! Mind you, I do wear glasses and I am bifocal curious...:rolleyes:
Lol. In other words, zoomers! Can't stand indecisive ditherers on the road.... :wanker:
No need to rein-in the Scottish slang, Sandy. There are plenty of us here fae Bonnie Scotland who understand and appreciate it ;)
Marco.
was behind one yesterday! 42 mph top whack and wouldnt budge from a roundabout until there were 0 vehicles in his vision...just in case type...ive seen learners do better....big fancy car too
was behind one yesterday! 42 mph top whack and wouldnt budge from a roundabout until there were 0 vehicles in his vision...just in case type...ive seen learners do better....big fancy car too
That's the ones I hate the most! They have a complete lack of confidence, and if they're like that, then they simply shouldn't be on the road, as they're nothing but a hazard to other drivers! All they do is cause frustration to those waiting behind them, some of whom might be in a hurry to go somewhere... ;)
Yup, they generally drive what you could call 'big fancy cars' [frequently Volvos], almost as if it's a case of 'I can't really drive properly, so if I cocoon myself in a 'big fancy car', I'll be safer and thus in less danger of getting hurt, so I'll just pooter along inside one and be completely oblivious to everything else happening around me'.
I blame two things:
1) Allowing people over 70 years of age on the road without having first passed a stringent and mandatory test (undertaken yearly), which proves that they're still fit to drive to a competent standard.
2) Too many folk buying cars with no real passion for driving, and who simply see one as a convenient means from getting from 'A to B'. The boring fuckers.
The latter category simply never 'push' themselves, or the car they're driving, and so never develop proper driving skills beyond those needed for going in a straight line up and down to Asda! :rolleyes:
Marco.
walpurgis
12-06-2015, 08:59
Don't agree, fwd is much easier for the average driver with no skid training to cope with, most folk find understeer much easier to cope with as it will correct itself when you remove your foot from the gas. I daresay most would find oversteer much more frightning.
Much better in snow too IMHO.
I did say "on the limit" Ali. Most drivers won't get anywhere near it intentionally.
I understand the way cars handle 'cos I've had loads of all types and used to drive very hard. Got a bit saner these days, but still have my 'moments'. :)
anthonyTD
12-06-2015, 09:08
Over steer is as you say Ali much more chalenging, and thats coming from someone who has owned a few old 911's!.:eek:
Don't agree, fwd is much easier for the average driver with no skid training to cope with, most folk find understeer much easier to cope with as it will correct itself when you remove your foot from the gas. I daresay most would find oversteer much more frightning.
Much better in snow too IMHO.
If you want to drive near or on the limit of your car, or your capability, do it on a track.
walpurgis
12-06-2015, 09:40
If you want to drive near or on the limit of your car, or your capability, do it on a track.
Well that's put a damper on the chat!
Firebottle
12-06-2015, 09:42
Too many folk buying cars with no real passion for driving, and who simply see a car as a convenient means from getting from 'A to B'. The boring fuckers.
.
:rfl: Though I'm probably in that category now. did have a 205 GTi in my time, fabulous fun :)
:rfl: Though I'm probably in that category now. did have a 205 GTi in my time, fabulous fun :)
im in that cat as well but at least i do it quickly and safely:lol:
If you want to drive near or on the limit of your car, or your capability, do it on a track.
Absolutely! But that's no excuse for driving like a constipated snail on normal roads ;)
It's the timidity and lack of confidence that gets me, though. I mean, there are folk (mostly females) who say that they're 'too scared' to drive on motorways, and so avoid them like the plague, even if that means adding many miles onto their journey....
WTF is that pish about?? :mental: :mental:
Marco.
:rfl: Though I'm probably in that category now. did have a 205 GTi in my time, fabulous fun :)
Lol! If or when I enter that category, feel free to shoot me!!
I can't see it though... My old man is 82, and only a few months ago had a sports exhaust fitted to his Honda Civic! :D :eyebrows: He also certainly doesn't lack confidence! However, he's a very safe driver and has only had two accidents in 65 years of driving (only one of which was his fault) - and that includes driving from Glasgow to Italy on holiday more times than I've eaten pasta!
All of my family are what you could call 'petrol heads', so I guess it runs in the blood. It's partly an Italian thing.
However, one thing's for sure, as soon as I feel that I'm no longer capable of driving to a competent standard, with confidence, I'll chuck my car keys in and take the bus, as there's no way I'll be turning into another doddery old-fart driver!! :nono: :nono:
Marco.
Ali Tait
12-06-2015, 10:06
Well that's put a damper on the chat!
Well aye, but he's not wrong.. :D
Gordon Steadman
12-06-2015, 10:16
I'm lucky to live in rural France where three cars constitute a traffic jam and most of the roads are wide open and visibility is great. The local council keep the edges trimmed on a regular basis (and there is bugger all rubbish dropped as well, how come the French still have a certain amount of civic pride?).
In over 50 years of driving, I have had just two cars with front wheel drive that I would class as decent. Alfa Sud and Peugeot 309GTi. From an enjoyment point of view, rear wheel drive has always done it for me. I have always been an 'enthusiastic' driver - but brilliantly safe - obviously:eyebrows:
The fact that I now have an old man's carriage - Audi A4 20 valve - merely reflects our financial situation rather than a choice. It would still be something rather more interesting if money were not a concern. Ronnie has suggested that we could spend more on the car if I had fewer hi-fis but what does she know?
I was confirmed as a suitable partner for one of my women by taking her sons to a local carpark in the snow and doing continuous doughnuts between all the other cars. Whilst it may well have shown good car control and impressed the lads, it proved to be a big mistake as she was a total disaster and the whole thing led to my present position 20 years on. Such is life.
Anyway, for most, front wheel drive is safer, boring or not. Should the unfortunate happen, it would be best to understeer into a hedge that go in sideways or even turn it over. I am lucky that I very rarely have to worry about slow drivers as I don't meet many of any sort:) Should I do so, it isn't really a problem. The open road is just a few metres away and so it's no problem slowing a little for a few minutes. I even stick to the speed limits as getting places is not as frustrating as it used to be in the UK.:eek:
walpurgis
12-06-2015, 10:17
I've had big cars and quick ones, but at the moment, out of my three cars, I mainly drive a tiny Suzuki Alto SZ I bought new last year. It's great fun, handles very well, is a lot quicker than you'd expect and is surprisingly smooth and quiet. It's also perfectly fine cruising on the motorway, unlike most motors of around 1000cc. I pay no tax, very low insurance (for the area) and get around 65 mpg, so it has advantages.
I'm lucky to live in rural France where three cars constitute a traffic jam and most of the roads are wide open and visibility is great. The local council keep the edges trimmed on a regular basis (and there is bugger all rubbish dropped as well, how come the French still have a certain amount of civic pride?).
Ditto here in North Wales! The only time I encounter anything that could be remotely referred to as a traffic jam, compared with what you get almost every day 'darn sarf', is on the Wrexham to Chester by-pass, A483, at the Chester end, during 'rush hour' - and that's something I only experience once in a blue moon.
The rest of the time, outside of Wrexham town centre, it's wide-open roads, surrounded by fields, mountains and beautiful scenery, which makes driving a pure pleasure, especially when you have a fun car and can throw it round some nice country lanes.
In Wales too (certainly North Wales) there is almost a complete absence of litter anywhere, even in town centres. Plus, the road surfaces in general are superb and very smooth, with few potholes around, which is handy when on your car you have super-low profile tyres and a lowered sports suspension! :eek:
Therefore, I can only conclude that the Welsh have similar pride in their environment as the French, and indeed the local councils seem to spend an appropriate amount of money on maintaining the roads. It's a great place to drive a nice car :)
Marco.
walpurgis
12-06-2015, 10:54
You're lucky mate. Around here at the wrong time of day you'll be quicker walking. Terrible traffic congestion.
I know. That's why (amongst many other reasons) I'd never live in London! :nono:
Have you no notions at all of moving from that grotty, smelly overpriced and overcrowded hellhole, Geoff? I mean, these days. what specifically is tying you to it?
Marco.
walpurgis
12-06-2015, 11:07
Have you no notions at all of moving from that grotty, smelly overpriced and overcrowded hellhole, Geoff? I mean, these days. what specifically is tying you to it?
Marco.
Many things are preventing me from moving yet. Money being the foremost. Then there's the ancient mother in law who is not in great shape and 80 miles away on the east coast. Moving even further away (and if I do I'll be heading west) would making the dealing with the old girl's problems harder. The daughter lives here and has a career here, although she should have got herself another place by now. Plus the grand daughters live with her here too. It's all a bit complex.
No worries, mate. However, money wouldn't be an issue if you moved further north. Any sort of decent property near London would get you a rather nice pad a bit further north :)
Also, don't let the youngsters tie you down, in your older age, when you should be thinking more about looking after No1. They can travel to visit you! ;)
Marco.
walpurgis
12-06-2015, 11:20
I don't have the money to buy. I'm in a council house. Wasn't a bad little spot when I moved here 37 years ago. The whole area has since been turned into a pigsty by the 'locals'.
Ultimately, I suppose we'll inherit the mother in laws place, which may help. God knows, I wouldn't want to live there (Herne Bay, it's like Chelmsford with a beach).
Ah, gotcha! No worries :)
Marco.
North Wales is a great place to drive a car?
As long as you know where that nutter, the chief constable has set up all of his speed traps, I guess it is.
I know. That's why (amongst many other reasons) I'd never live in London! :nono:
Have you no notions at all of moving from that grotty, smelly overpriced and overcrowded hellhole, Geoff? I mean, these days. what specifically is tying you to it?
Marco.
Hmmm, well, most large urban conurbations tend to sport a wide social demographic residing in areas ranging from the nice to the not so very nice, even Wrexham!
http://www.theguardian.com/uk/2000/jul/04/ukcrime.drugsandalcohol
http://www.cookdandbombd.co.uk/forums/index.php?topic=32887.0
North Wales is a great place to drive a car?
As long as you know where that nutter, the chief constable has set up all of his speed traps, I guess it is.
You don't (at least very rarely) get speed traps on country roads, way out in the sticks, which is where I'm referring to. At least I've never been caught there once. Most of the time, however, there is no need to speed. Doing 50-60 mph down tight little country lanes, in the right car, can be quite a thrill, as you yourself should know full well! :D
Marco.
Hmmm, well, most large urban conurbations tend to sport a wide social demographic residing in areas ranging from the nice to the not so very nice, even Wrexham!
http://www.theguardian.com/uk/2000/jul/04/ukcrime.drugsandalcohol
http://www.cookdandbombd.co.uk/forums/index.php?topic=32887.0
LOL!! :D
In terms of what's contained in your first link, we live in a quiet suburb outside of where the plebs exist [about 2 miles from the town centre], so never see or come into contact with any of that stuff.
The second link contains ill-informed and/or grossly misguided drivel, posted by Englanders with an axe to grind - most probably 'Cestrians' (if you need to, look it up). There's always been huge 'niggling' and bad blood between folk from Wrexham and Chester. You should try attending the 'local derby' football matches!! :eek:
Not only is it a 'Wales vs. England' thing, but also a perceived 'working class vs. toffs' thing, as Cestrians (mostly rather deludedly) have always considered themselves as a 'cut above'.
Seriously though, Roger, I totally get where you're coming from, and that there is good and bad in all places. However, I'm afraid that I detest the constant busyness, stress and confusion of big cities [London in particular], and the fact that, with almost anything, you get such little value for your money. It goes against all my principles.
I'll stick to the quiet life, up with the sheep in the Welsh hills, miles away from the rat race, thanks very much! Life here is good :sheep:
Marco.
kirstysdad
12-06-2015, 17:38
Re drivers and cars...
Numpties!
No ability to anticipate, or to rotate their head either way prior to coming to a halt in case it distracts them from the 10 feet of road in front of their car!:doh:
As for your new motor Marco, I'd guess, 3rd generation Italian descent, ex-Paisley drug dealer in over your head, got out before the London Serbians took yer knee caps off, should have stuck to ice cream, now on witness relocation, string of illegitimate children with various personality disordered ex-heroin users in the Wrexham/Chirk/Oswestry area, real name Paulo, disowned by strict Catholic family except for homosexual cousin who is a Priest trainee at Seminary school in Rome.:stalks:
How close am I?;)
kirstysdad
12-06-2015, 17:41
LOL!! :D
In terms of what's contained in your first link, we live in a quiet suburb outside of where the plebs exist [about 2 miles from the town centre], so never see or come into contact with any of that stuff.
The second link contains ill-informed and/or grossly misguided drivel, posted by Englanders with an axe to grind - most probably by 'Cestrians' (if you need to, look it up). There's always been huge 'niggling' and bad blood between folk from Wrexham and Chester.
Not only is it a 'Wales vs. England' thing, but also a perceived 'working class vs. toffs' thing, as Cestrians have always considered themselves as a 'cut above'.
Seriously though, Roger, I totally get where you're coming from, and that there is good and bad in all places. However, I'm afraid that I detest the constant busyness, stress and confusion of big cities [London in particular], and the fact that, with almost anything, you get such little value for your money. It goes against all my principles.
I'll stick to the quiet life, up with the sheep in the Welsh hills, miles away from the rat race, thanks very much! The lifestyle here is fab :sheep:
Marco.
Second that.
kirstysdad
12-06-2015, 17:44
I am always meeting fellow Scots in Shrewsbury, Welshpool, Newtown, and even out here in Montgomeryshire.
Wondered if I could set up a self determining enclave>
Ali Tait
12-06-2015, 17:48
Re drivers and cars...
Numpties!
No ability to anticipate, or to rotate their head either way prior to coming to a halt in case it distracts them from the 10 feet of road in front of their car!:doh:
As for your new motor Marco, I'd guess, 3rd generation Italian descent, ex-Paisley drug dealer in over your head, got out before the London Serbians took yer knee caps off, should have stuck to ice cream, now on witness relocation, string of illegitimate children with various personality disordered ex-heroin users in the Wrexham/Chirk/Oswestry area, real name Paulo, disowned by strict Catholic family except for homosexual cousin who is a Priest trainee at Seminary school in Rome.:stalks:
How close am I?;)
:lol:
Re drivers and cars...
Numpties!
No ability to anticipate, or to rotate their head either way prior to coming to a halt in case it distracts them from the 10 feet of road in front of their car!:doh:
As for your new motor Marco, I'd guess, 3rd generation Italian descent, ex-Paisley drug dealer in over your head, got out before the London Serbians took yer knee caps off, should have stuck to ice cream, now on witness relocation, string of illegitimate children with various personality disordered ex-heroin users in the Wrexham/Chirk/Oswestry area, real name Paulo, disowned by strict Catholic family except for homosexual cousin who is a Priest trainee at Seminary school in Rome.:stalks:
How close am I?;)
:lolsign:
Frighteningly so [apart from the 3rd generation Italian]. If you'd nailed my penchant for collecting badger widgets, I'd have been looking over my shoulder to find you! :lol:
Marco.
Ali Tait
12-06-2015, 18:09
And the wearing of a Merkin..
kirstysdad
13-06-2015, 11:34
And the wearing of a Merkin..
Merkin! Brilliant!
Beth Jeans Houghton has a new persona, du blonde, and she favours a merkin!
http://www.undertheradarmag.com/uploads/article_images/1234dublonde.jpg
Audio Advent
13-06-2015, 12:15
It's losing BTW, not "loosing".
That was especially for you (was it you who made a big point of that before?).
Audio Advent
13-06-2015, 12:23
I know. That's why (amongst many other reasons) I'd never live in London! :nono:
Have you no notions at all of moving from that grotty, smelly overpriced and overcrowded hellhole, Geoff? I mean, these days. what specifically is tying you to it?
Marco.
For me, small towns are more hell holes than big cities. I guess they're ok if you're happy keeping yourself to yourself in a nice house out of the way. Normally for me it's the mindset of small town people which contribute more to the hell hole aspect - not meaning anyone in particular of course! Friends who've come from small towns or even medium sized towns all say the same - suffocating, possibly even violent for anyone who doesn't toe the line of conformity (unless of course they're swingers or other types of middle-england's accepted ways of non-conformity).
Audio Advent
13-06-2015, 12:26
Over steer is as you say Ali much more chalenging, and thats coming from someone who has owned a few old 911's!.:eek:
Easier to understand though and more instinctive to correct. Just that you need to be more accurate to not get out of step and to not panic, make rash moves.
Audio Advent
13-06-2015, 12:37
Daft? Lol... I guess it is, but (combined with 760Nm of torque) it sure is a helluva lot of FUN!! :D
Like Ali has said, the 'losing grip' thing is 100% to do with the tyres, not the driver.
In my case, it only happens in the wet, going round some roundabouts, at any sort of reasonable speed (where the back-end drifts), if I've got cheap rear tyres fitted [and I'm far from alone in that respect - 1000s of other drivers have reported the same thing, if you read online reports on tyre review sites], and in Ali's case, when Pirellis are 'mixed with Alfa', as it were.
Remove those particular variables and all is fine. The telling thing will be when in the wet I compare the Accelera tyres I had before, with the Pirellis I've just fitted. No skidding round the same roundabouts at the same speed, will mean problem solved, simples! :)
Marco.
Seriously, if you're losing grip going around a roundabout then the problem is that your idea of "any reasonable speed" is the problem. You're going too fast for the condition of the road, the turn your making, the power at your rear wheels and the grip you're whole car/tyre system is capable of.
That is my whole point really - doesn't mean you or Ali are idiot drivers, just means your ideas of what is driving too slow is out of wack just enough.
No-one should be loosing grip unless on completely defective (illegal to use or sell) tyres or on ice or oil. If you are, you're driving too fast for the road out of some pre-conceived idea of how fast one should be able to go (perhaps out of boredom or not want to be seen as too safe a driver?).
Ali Tait
13-06-2015, 12:38
That was especially for you (was it you who made a big point of that before?).
Well, trying to be a condescending smartarse doesn't really work if the spelling isn't correct. ;)
Audio Advent
13-06-2015, 12:44
Considering the fact that I've owned two 3.0 V6 Alfas and a 3.0 V6 X Type in the recent past, and further considering I've had no grip problems whatsoever with any of them with other tyres fitted, that would tend to point to the tyres being crap.
The tyre/suspension/power/weight distribution make-up of any car is part of it's characteristic. They all work differently together. If you're driving close to the limits in one with no problems and then move to another car driving the same expecting the limits to be the same, I'd not blame the car or tyre but just adjust your driving for the new combo.
In motor sport tyres are changed specifically to suit different conditions, different suspension set ups etc etc. Because one is better in a particular combo than another, doesn't mean that the tyre is at fault! Then if the driver chooses a sub-optimal set up, the driver changes his driving to still keep within the limits.
Those nose-heavy Alfa V6s aren't so good other than straightline impressiveness, smooth engines etc. Prefer the more balanced 2 litre versions myself - all about handling and balance for me, feels nicer.
Ali Tait
13-06-2015, 12:51
Yes, well aware of all that, you are not reading my posts correctly. I am talking about a specific tyre, namely the Pirelli P Zero Rosso. Both cars were tail happy in the wet nowhere near the limit with these tyres - I could double the speed on a roundabout with no problems on different tyres.
Ali Tait
13-06-2015, 12:52
How many V6 Alfas have you driven btw?
Gordon Steadman
13-06-2015, 13:13
The tyre/suspension/power/weight distribution make-up of any car is part of it's characteristic. They all work differently together. If you're driving close to the limits in one with no problems and then move to another car driving the same expecting the limits to be the same, I'd not blame the car or tyre but just adjust your driving for the new combo.
In motor sport tyres are changed specifically to suit different conditions, different suspension set ups etc etc. Because one is better in a particular combo than another, doesn't mean that the tyre is at fault! Then if the driver chooses a sub-optimal set up, the driver changes his driving to still keep within the limits.
Those nose-heavy Alfa V6s aren't so good other than straightline impressiveness, smooth engines etc. Prefer the more balanced 2 litre versions myself - all about handling and balance for me, feels nicer.
Whilst I agree that the smaller engined Alfas are my preference, I reckon it is yet another urban myth that the V6s are not balanced. I have had a GTV6, 75 and driven a 164 and found them perfectly fine at anything other than insane velocities but that is true of any road car. Mine were always on Goodyear Grand Prix, I have no idea what the 164 was on.
When it comes to balance, the best I ever had was the 1300cc GT Junior. However that had very little real power and it took some real trying to get it sideways. Fun though.
Ali Tait
13-06-2015, 14:27
I have owned a twinnie 166, and 164 and 166 3.0 V6's. The twinnie 166 is underpowered IMO, the V6 far better in this respect. I agree it's a bit of a myth that the V6's are not balanced, but that's what you get for repeating what is read on the net instead of actually trying for yourself. Both V6's were great driving cars, the 166 more refined, 164 more of the raw Alfa experience of old. I' d say the 164 is capable of being pushed harder than the 166, but both are great fun to drive. They were all reliable cars too.
Audio Advent
13-06-2015, 23:31
How many V6 Alfas have you driven btw?
Two, a GTV (not the 80s or 70s ones) and a 155. Not a massive difference but definately the gtv was more nose heavy than the 2 litre version I've also tried.
Audio Advent
13-06-2015, 23:44
Well, trying to be a condescending smartarse doesn't really work if the spelling isn't correct. ;)
Nothing I've said has been condescending or from a smart arse point of view. I'm sorry you've taken it that way for whatever reason you have. That attitude to spelling is either deliberately condescending in itself or moving towards a kind of OCD condition - god help any dyslexic who may cross your path, I'm sure you'll put them rightly in their place in your view.
I simply can't understand why people would be driving in a way where you'd begin to experience loosing grip in a big way! I've never experienced it and yet I still wouldn't call myself an overly cautious driver other than when I think animals might run into the road from nowhere, or people or shit drivers do something erratic. I just don't drive the way that perhaps you do which then means you loose grip Pirelli P Zero Rossos or no. If you've got a lot of horsepower on the rear wheels and they're spinning out whilst turning then you're accellerating too hard/at the wrong point for that particular situation (no racing driver excellerates whilst turning, they do it on the way out of a corner and effectively headed in a straight line - ok they do it skillfully at the right point as soon as they can but I doubt even you are as good as a pro driver)
And that's with me using tyres only a step up from the cheap chinese models whenever I buy new..
In other words, the limits of your driving in every situation should be where your tyres loose grip. It shouldn't be that tyres should live up to how you want to drive and are crap if they don't. Do you see the difference?
Seriously, if you're losing grip going around a roundabout then the problem is that your idea of "any reasonable speed" is the problem. You're going too fast for the condition of the road, the turn your making, the power at your rear wheels and the grip you're whole car/tyre system is capable of.
That is my whole point really - doesn't mean you or Ali are idiot drivers, just means your ideas of what is driving too slow is out of wack just enough.
No-one should be loosing grip unless on completely defective (illegal to use or sell) tyres or on ice or oil. If you are, you're driving too fast for the road out of some pre-conceived idea of how fast one should be able to go (perhaps out of boredom or not want to be seen as too safe a driver?).
Sam, give it up please and move on. It's the tyres - end of. I *know* that's what was causing the problem. Lecturing to me otherwise is extremely patronising.
I really hope you're not one of those annoying people who have to go on and on and on in a debate, trying to tell the other person they're wrong, and attempting to beat them into submission, rather than simply accepting that there is a difference of opinion, and thus simply 'agreeing to disagree'...
If so, you'll be given short shrift here, as we don't like folk who like to argue for argument's sake.
You're already pissing off Ali, for the same reason, so that's enough. Any more, and it'll be removed, so think about that before you sit down and type another post that's designed simply to prolong the argument.
Marco.
kirstysdad
14-06-2015, 11:05
In an attempt to inject a bit of humour into this, and a bit of balance...
Words such as "should", "ought" and "must" are, I think, non-negotiables, or imperatives? I'm sure someone can help me with this. Anyway, they are often unhelpful ways of persuading, and applying such "rules" to some areas of our lives can leave us inflexible and hamstrung.
Obviously there are some imperatives, called laws that we are obliged to adhere to, like driving without due concern, dangerously or when drunk.
I am guilty of driving badly at times because I am not perfect. I don't always mean to drive badly, in fact sometimes I drive really rather well and have avoided accidents because of this, and most of the time I hope I do well enough. Occasionally I drive like a dick, sometimes I exceed the design specification of my vehicle and its associated bits. Sometimes I exceed my own design specifcations and act like an arse! But I haven't killed anyone yet, and would hope never to. But I am allowed by law to drive with care and have fun. If I spin off a quiet wet roundabout in Warwickshire one day in an old knackered Chevette and hurt/damage nowt but my pride, then I've got away lightly and have done no harm.
I have had several incidents over many years of driving and riding motorbikes, some due to inexperience, a few due to other folks' errors, one serious early experience of me being a dickhead, and some shared errors. I hope I have learned from each and every one of them. But that learning has been due to reflection on my own actions, not by being lectured (although one Polisman in Ayrshire gave me a real bollicking for speeding once that will always stick with me).
There's none of us perfect; we all need to forgive ourselves, reflect and try to do better. And buy really sticky tyres next...:mental:
Ali Tait
14-06-2015, 11:50
Nothing I've said has been condescending or from a smart arse point of view. I'm sorry you've taken it that way for whatever reason you have. That attitude to spelling is either deliberately condescending in itself or moving towards a kind of OCD condition - god help any dyslexic who may cross your path, I'm sure you'll put them rightly in their place in your view.
I simply can't understand why people would be driving in a way where you'd begin to experience loosing grip in a big way! I've never experienced it and yet I still wouldn't call myself an overly cautious driver other than when I think animals might run into the road from nowhere, or people or shit drivers do something erratic. I just don't drive the way that perhaps you do which then means you loose grip Pirelli P Zero Rossos or no. If you've got a lot of horsepower on the rear wheels and they're spinning out whilst turning then you're accellerating too hard/at the wrong point for that particular situation (no racing driver excellerates whilst turning, they do it on the way out of a corner and effectively headed in a straight line - ok they do it skillfully at the right point as soon as they can but I doubt even you are as good as a pro driver)
And that's with me using tyres only a step up from the cheap chinese models whenever I buy new..
In other words, the limits of your driving in every situation should be where your tyres loose grip. It shouldn't be that tyres should live up to how you want to drive and are crap if they don't. Do you see the difference?
Neither of the cars in question are rear wheel drive. The Alfa is fwd, the X Type 4wd, the viscous coupling version, which would mean any excess power being applied would automatically be distributed to the other wheels to prevent spin.
Further, the first 166 I had did 180,000 miles in the five years I owned it, the second about 100,000 over thre years. Not once in all that time did I have any grip problems whatsoever excepting with the tyres in question.
If the back end is stepping out on a large roundabout at 25mph, there is a serious grip problem with the tyres, not the driver.
All I can be arsed saying about this now.
Nice post, Sandy. I like your style! Would've liked tae huv heard what yon Polis said tae ye in Ayrshire...! :eyebrows:
Marco.
Ammonite Audio
14-06-2015, 12:59
If the back end is stepping out on a large roundabout at 25mph, there is a serious grip problem with the tyres, not the driver.
Or the traction control/stability system.
Ali Tait
14-06-2015, 13:13
On two completely different cars?
As I keep saying, changing the tyres cured the problem...
Gordon Steadman
14-06-2015, 13:22
Or the traction control/stability system.
My feet are my traction control system, I have never had a car with anything bar power steering and brakes. Tyres are the tiny bit between me and the road, if they do their job, I live to tell the tale. You never know until they let go if they are actually any good. Every tire I have ever tried has different levels of feel and grip, wet or dry.
As I keep saying, changing the tyres cured the problem...
Ditto. It's been raining here today, so I took the car out (with Pirellis fitted) to the same roundabout, doing the same speed (approx 20mph), where in the same conditions last time I lost traction and the back end swung out...
This time, nowt, nada. The rear end clung onto the tarmac like a limpet, just as it should be. Only variable? The tyres! Job done, Conversation over :)
Marco.
Ali Tait
14-06-2015, 16:24
:)
The Black Adder
14-06-2015, 16:28
Ditto. It's been raining here today, so I took the car out (with Pirellis fitted) to the same roundabout, doing the same speed (approx 20mph), where in the same conditions last time I lost traction and the back end swung out...
This time, nowt, nada. The rear end clung onto the tarmac like a limpet, just as it should be. Only variable? The tyres! Job done, Conversation over :)
Marco.
:eek: I do hope your next thread won't be... "I've just totaled my car... what can I buy next?"... lol :doh:
Lol..... Jo, the difference between these tyres and what were on it before [budget Accelera] is, quite frankly, ridiculous. The car holds the road and handles completely differently, and consequently that significantly increases driving satisfaction.
You really do get what you pay for with these things. For anyone else with a highly-tuned sports saloon car (or similar), I can't recommend the Pirelli P-Zero Corsas highly enough! :cool:
Marco.
Ali Tait
14-06-2015, 16:45
Glad they are doing the job Marco.
Cheers, mate. I know you don't rate Pirellis, but like you, I can only speak as I find :)
Marco.
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